Hurricanes Stanley Cup win triggers NHL offseason trades and contract talks

The Carolina Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup and have since covered their arena with tarps. The offseason began with a trade that sent the Ottawa Senators captain to the Florida Panthers to join his brother.

Several players have used contract clauses and public statements to influence trades. A Buffalo player secured a move to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2021. A Calgary player was traded to the Panthers after refusing a long-term deal. A Vancouver player was sent to the Minnesota Wild after requesting a change.

The Ottawa captain had a full no-movement clause and listed a limited number of acceptable destinations. Reports indicate the Senators contacted the Vegas and Carolina clubs before completing the trade with Florida. Some accounts suggest the Senators wanted the player moved after he won an Olympic gold medal.

Teams are also preparing major contract extensions ahead of the July 1 free-agency period. The team had previously declined to extend another forward, positioning itself for the current negotiations. A Toronto player has remained with his club despite earlier reports of possible discontent.

Other players in Winnipeg and Montreal have not publicly sought moves. Additional trade requests are expected before training camp begins.