“Faster, Higher, Stronger, Together” is the Olympic motto for 2021. It’s also a good bet for the NHL’s offseason in 2021.
All 32 teams are eager to improve their speed, strengthen their lineups, and climb the standings. Some people are even doing it in groups. There have already been a couple “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine” bargains. Essentially, a “Hey, buddy, take this horrible, cap-heavy contract and we’ll give you a bunch of guys and picks in exchange. Thank you very much, buddy.”
The West News will have complete coverage of the latest NHL deals, signing rumours, and news as the floodgates open and pen to paper (or e-signature) is finally placed to paper (or e-signature is acquired).
NHL free agency tracker 2021: Live updates
Wednesday, July 28
11:23 a.m. — Ethan Bear is reportedly on the move to the Hurricanes for Warren Foegele. Bear is a really solid, young defenseman.
11:02 a.m. — Flames acquired defenseman Nikita Zadorov from the Blackhawks for a third-rounder in 2022. He is an RFA.
SN analysis: Good addition but doesn’t fill the large hole left by Mark Giordano’s departure for the Pacific Northwest. Plus, Flames need a lot more pieces to be a competitive club.
10:56 a.m. — Sam Gagner re-signs with the Red Wings.
10:46 a.m. — Bottom-six guys getting paid. What a world.
10:42 a.m. — Maple Leafs moving on from Frederik Andersen, who LeBrun is reporting is heading to the Hurricanes.
10 a.m. — Two hours before free agency opens. Here’s a look at the morning’s latest rumors:
Tuesday, July 27
11:51 p.m. — It was touch-and-go there for a bit but the Avalanche’s captain is returning to Denver.