NHL 2024 Offseason: 5 Summer Dramas to Watch

Key moves include Jake Guentzel joining the Lightning and Jeff Skinner heading to the Oilers, alongside various contract extensions. However, several major uncertainties linger league-wide.

Will the Hurricanes part ways with Martin Necas? What's the optimal course for the Maple Leafs' core in their current situation? And what lies ahead for Patrik Laine?

As we transition from the early July rush, let's delve into the unresolved storylines as the NHL offseason progresses.

Will the New York Rangers Trade Jacob Trouba?

Jacob Trouba, captain of the Rangers, finds himself central to a current NHL dilemma: the use of no-trade clauses. Trouba invoked his 15-team no-trade clause to block a potential move to his hometown team, the Red Wings, sparking speculation about his motivations. Despite the awkwardness behind the scenes, insiders like ESPN's Emily Kaplan suggest Trouba may remain with the Rangers for the upcoming 2024-25 season if circumstances don't drastically change.

This situation underscores a broader trend where players assert their contractual rights, prompting teams to reconsider how liberally they grant no-movement and no-trade clauses.

What's Next for Patrik Laine and the Columbus Blue Jackets?

Patrik Laine's situation with the Columbus Blue Jackets is multifaceted. Aaron Portzline of The Athletic reported that the team is awaiting clearance from the NHL/NHLPA players' assistance program, which Laine entered voluntarily last January. According to Portzline, Laine will only return to NHL action upon approval from program administrators.

Meanwhile, Laine has expressed a desire to be traded, indicating that he no longer sees Columbus as an ideal fit as he seeks to rejuvenate his career. While the Blue Jackets could potentially trade him even while he's in the program, GM Don Waddell noted that interested clubs would want to discuss the situation directly with Laine beforehand.

With two years remaining on his contract at an annual average value of $8.7 million, acquiring Laine poses a financial risk for teams strapped by salary cap constraints. Waddell's preference is to secure a trade that brings in an NHL-ready player who can contribute immediately.

Despite these complexities, many hope to see Laine given another chance with a competitive team after his time away. However, any deal may hinge on Columbus' willingness to absorb a portion of Laine's contract, a move Waddell appears reluctant to make.

Jeremy Swayman's Contract Extension with the Bruins