Articles / Recapping busy summer ahead of 2025-26 NHL regular season

Recapping busy summer ahead of 2025-26 NHL regular season

S
Sportsnet
Oct 7, 2025 5:26 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →

As the NHL gears up for the 2025-26 season, teams are anticipating a busy summer filled with key decisions and player movements. GMs are bracing for draft day strategies, and fans are eager to see how organizations will shape their rosters. From negotiations with star players to potential trades, the off-season promises to be both thrilling and impactful for franchise futures.

Key players such as Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews remain central to their teams' plans. Their performance in upcoming seasons will be under constant scrutiny, especially as teams look to build around their superstar talents. The excitement surrounding free agency also adds another layer, as veterans and emerging stars hit the market looking for new contracts.

Additionally, the impending expansion of the league means new challenges for established teams. With the Seattle Kraken's recent performance, teams need to be strategic in not only retaining their best players but also scouting promising talents to stay competitive. Discussions about prospective rule changes and playoff formats are also on the horizon, hinting at a transformative period for prestigious franchises and their fanbases.

NHL fans are encouraged to keep an eye on the developments as the summer unfolds. The decisions made during this time will shape the landscape of the league for years to come, with teams striving to balance immediate success against long-term growth. The friction between evolving strategies and the pursuit of glory adds excitement, keeping both players and fans on their toes.