Articles / 7 Weekly Thoughts: The dog days of summer are here

7 Weekly Thoughts: The dog days of summer are here

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Blue Seat Blogs
Jul 23, 2025 5:17 PM

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As the summer stretches on, the NHL landscape goes quiet, a time often referred to as the 'dog days of summer.' This season's lull has fans eagerly anticipating training camps and the return of hockey. Players like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad of the New York Rangers spend their summers maintaining peak physical condition, each ready to leap back into the competitive scene. Meanwhile, other NHL teams are also fine-tuning their rosters, with hopes of making impactful changes before the upcoming season.

While the excitement of trades and signings has quieted down, speculation continues around free agents and potential moves that could shape the league. The New Jersey Devils have attracted attention with their recent acquisitions, and their young stars such as Jack Hughes are poised to make a significant impact this coming season. At the same time, fans wonder how teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning will rebound after their playoff exit.

As we glance towards September, several players are preparing for a crucial year ahead. Those with contract years are particularly motivated, looking to secure their future in the league. This includes names like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, both of whom have intriguing futures ahead. As the month moves on, fans will be counting down the days until hockey returns, with discussions around line combinations and breakout predictions heating up in online forums.

In summary, while the summer months may be quieter for the NHL, the anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable. With key players taking center stage in their preparations and teams strategizing, the thrill of hockey will soon return to dominate the sports landscape once again.