"Blockbuster Trade and Retirement Shakeups Reshape NHL Offseason"
06 September 2025

"Blockbuster Trade and Retirement Shakeups Reshape NHL Offseason"

Hockey News Tracker - Daily

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The 2025-26 NHL season off-season and early September are shaping up with notable transactions and significant news. The Montreal Canadiens traded goalie Carey Price’s contract to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Gannon Laroque and a fifth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This move freed significant salary cap space for Montreal, reported to be over 4.5 million dollars under the league cap, positioning them for further roster improvements. The Canadiens are actively seeking an experienced, reliable second-line center and remain linked to Anaheim’s Mason McTavish, although the Ducks are expected to re-sign him. Montreal’s strategy suggests more moves are likely either before training camp or toward late November[3][5].

The NHL training camps begin in mid-September, and teams are positioning themselves for the coming season through trades and signings. The San Jose Sharks recently extended defenseman Jack Thompson and incorporated new acquisitions such as Laroque from Montreal. The Calgary Flames signed forward Connor Zary to a three-year contract, reflecting their efforts to build depth[6][8].

Several veteran players retired during the summer, including Tyler Johnson, Riley Nash, Zac Dalpe, and Christian Fischer. These retirements contribute to shifts in team dynamics as younger players and prospects prepare to assume larger roles[2].

Trade rumors remain a hot topic with several notable players under speculation. Jordan Kyrou of the St. Louis Blues, although currently protected by a no-trade clause, continues to attract interest due to his speed and scoring ability. Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars also remains a potential trade candidate, partly due to his significant cap hit in the final year of his contract, although no firm moves have been confirmed[1].

Tragically, the hockey world mourns the passing of Hall of Fame goaltender Ken Dryden, who died at 78 after battling cancer. Dryden had a storied career exclusively with the Montreal Canadiens, winning six Stanley Cups and numerous personal awards including the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP and five Vezina Trophies. He was also a key figure in the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union, remembered as one of the greatest goalies in NHL history[7].

Across the league, teams are actively preparing for training camps with numerous invites extended to prospects and veteran players to compete for roster spots. Transactions like the trade of Tucker Robertson for Jon-Randall Avon and other minor deals are shaping team compositions ahead of regular season action[4][6].

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