Three NHL Teams Face Crucial 2024 Off-Season Negotiations

As the off-season frenzy of free-agent signings and trade deals slows down, three NHL teams still have significant negotiations and decisions ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets remain coach-less after failing to agree on terms with Todd McLellan. Dean Evason and Jay Woodcroft have also interviewed for the position. Although Joel Quenneville became eligible to return to NHL duties on July 10, he is not a candidate according to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic. New GM Don Waddell still has work to do.

Edmonton Oilers

Acting GM Jeff Jackson has made several moves praised in Edmonton, but the Oilers are still over the salary cap. RFAs Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg need new contracts, and negotiations with Leon Draisaitl and Evan Bouchard are on the horizon. Draisaitl's agent aims to finalize an extension by the end of August.

Toronto Maple Leafs

GM Brad Treliving plans to start the season with goalies Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll. He signed Chris Tanev and Oliver Ekman-Larsson to boost the defense. RFA Connor Dewar needs a new contract, as does Nick Robertson, who reportedly wants a change of scenery. The situation with Mitch Marner remains tense, as he excluded major media from his charity event and avoided Leafs-related questions. Marner's contract saga could lead to a trade, an extension, or continued drama.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes face crucial negotiations with Martin Necas, who has filed for salary arbitration. Necas is coming off a $3 million per season deal and is seeking a significant raise. AFP Analytics projects a short-term deal at $6.2 million annually or a seven-year pact at $7.5 million per year. New GM Eric Tulsky also needs to address Jack Drury's arbitration and negotiate with Seth Jarvis.