2025 NHL Offseason Winners and Losers: Top Moves and Surprises
One, 2025 NHL offseason winners and losers, top moves and surprises. Two, Florida Panthers NHL offseason moves. Petri and Terasaur have joined for Stanley Cup defense. One, 2025 NHL offseason winners and losers. Top moves and surprises. As the 2025 NHL off season begins to wind down, we’ve witnessed some game-changing moves that have reshaped the landscape of the league. But here’s where it gets controversial. Not all teams have played their cards right. Let’s dive into the most notable winners and losers of this period, sparking debates and possibly altering the future of many franchises. Winner: The Huracan’s strategic mastery. In a market that seemed depleted of opportunities, the Carolina Hurricanes, under the guidance of GM Eric Tulski, have made commendable strides. Securing Nikolai Ellers with a six-year contract at an annual value of $8.5 million was a steal. Furthermore, their acquisition of Kandre Miller has significantly bolstered their defense, promising a brighter future for the team. The extension of Logan Stanovven’s contract also ensures stability and potential growth. These moves not only fill crucial gaps, but are likely to provide long-term benefits, showcasing Tulski’s foresight and strategic acumen. Loser, the Los Angeles Kings puzzling decisions. Every step forward for the Kings seems to be followed by two steps back. Their decision to age their defense with signings like Cody Seki and Brian Deolan, especially after losing Vladislov Gaov, has left many scratching their heads. This approach seems to contradict the dynamic needs of a team striving to surpass competitors like Edmonton in crucial early playoff rounds. The Kings need a radical change in strategy if they hope to break their current cycle of disappointment. Loser. The Buffalo Sabers perpetual rebuilding. The Sabers appear to be in a constant state of flux, attempting to address immediate needs while inadvertently creating new challenges. The departure of JJ Prurker and the acquisition of Michael Kessering and Josh Don may fill certain roles, but they hardly seem like the transformative moves needed to end a long-standing playoff drought. This pattern suggests a deeper strategic meal that could keep the Sabres from becoming serious contenders. Winner, the Vegas Golden Knights bold moves. Vegas continues to impress with their aggressive approach to building a competitive team. The addition of Mitch Mner, a top tier forward, to their already formidable lineup underscores their commitment to excellence. Their strategy of acquiring proven talent through trades has kept them in the spotlight and continuously in the hunt for the Stanley Cup. Losers, the rest of the NHL. The Florida Panthers have set a high bar, securing key players like Brad Mand, Sam Bennett, and Aaron Eek, which not only strengthens their team, but also weakens their competition. Their strategy of locking down talent has left other teams scrambling, highlighting a significant disparity in team management effectiveness across the league. Winners, the future free agents of 2026. Looking ahead, the 2026 free agency pool is brimming with potential with stars like Conor McDavid and Jack Eichel approaching the end of their contracts and a rising salary cap. Next year promises to be a landmark season for player negotiations and team strategies. This could be a pivotal moment for many franchises, offering a chance to make or break their future prospects. Winners Penn State and NCAA men’s hockey. The commitment of Gavin McKenna, a top prospect to Penn State is a testament to the growing influence and appeal of NCAA hockey. This move not only boosts the profile of college hockey, but also challenges other developmental leagues to elevate their game. It’s a significant win for the sport, broadening its base and enhancing its competitive spirit. As we reflect on these developments, one must wonder, are the strategies employed by teams like the Kings and Sabers sustainable in the long run? What do you think? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss the future trajectories of these NHL teams. Two Florida Panthers NHL offseason moves. Petri and Terasaur have joined for Stanley Cup defense. The Florida Panthers are making strategic moves to fortify their roster, aiming to secure a third consecutive Stanley Cup title this summer. They’ve added some notable talent to bolster their defensive and goalending ranks while also strengthening their forward lines asterisk asterisk key additions asterisk asterisk asterisk asterisk Jeff Petri asterisk asterisk the 37year-old veteran defenseman signed a one-year deal with the Panthers on July 1st. Petri, known for his experience and leadership, is expected to play alongside either Dmitri Kulikorf or Juvvis Bolinsky’s on the third defense pairing. Despite battling injuries with the Detroit Red Wings last season, limiting him to 44 games and eight points, Petri brings a wealth of NHL experience to the team. Asterisk asterastric denial Terasaur of Asterisk acquired in a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets and subsequently signed to a one-year contract. The 26-year-old goander is set to back up Sergey Babrvski. Terasorf who hails from the same Russian city as Babski played 20 games for the Blue Jackets last season, posting a 7-10-2 record with a 3.54 goals against average and a81 save percentage. His familiarity with the Russian style of play could provide a seamless transition and valuable support in net asterisk asterisk jacknicker asterisk asterisk. The 26-year-old forward signed a one-year T-way contract to adept to the Panthers forward lines. With 107 NHL games under his belt stood Nicker’s experience and versatility make him a solid addition. Last season, he played for the Los Angeles Kings AHL affiliate in Ontario, California. Asterisk asterastric key departures asterisk asterisk asterisk Nate Schmidt asterisk, the 32year-old defenseman who had a standout season with the Panthers, signed a three-year contract with the Utah Mammoth. Schmidt, originally signed by the Panthers after his contract was bought out by the Winnipeg Jets, played in 103 of 5 games last season, contributing 19 points and winning his first Stanley Cup. His departure leaves a significant hole in the defense. Asterisk asterisk Nikico Stim asterisk. The 28-year-old forward signed a 2-year deal with the Minnesota Wild. Stim, acquired from the San Jose Sharks in March, played in eight postseason games and won his second Stanley Cup, having previously lifted the trophy with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022. Asterisk Asterisk Vitec Asterisk Asterisk, the 28-year-old goander signed a one-year contract with the Utah Mammoth. Veinsk acquired from the Sharks in March, adds another piece to the Mammoth’s goalending depth. Asterisk asterastric Jacob Megner Astress. The 31-year-old defenseman signed a two-year contract with the Vegas Golden Knights. Megner split time between the Panthers and their AHL affiliate in Charlotte last season. Asterisk asterisk on the cusp asterisk asterisk asterisk asterisk Jack Deavine asterisk asterisk. The 22-year-old forward joined the Charlotte Checkers after a successful college career at the University of Denver, where he won two national championships. Deine showed promise in his brief AHL stint, recording five points in seven CER cup playoff games. Asterisk asterisk makuller’s Havor asterisk asterisk. The 24year-old defenseman is highly regarded by the Panthers. In his first proseason in North America, Havor played 60 regular season games for Charlotte, contributing three goals and seven assists. His performance in the playoffs with five assists in 18 games suggests he could be a valuable asset in the future. Asterisk asterisk what they still need. Asterisk asterisk. Not much really. The Panthers have retained most of their key players, including their top forwards from their championship run. They successfully resigned Sam Bennett, Aaron Eek, and Brad Mond, ensuring continuity and depth. However, there’s a question mark around Matthew Tartuk, who may need offseason surgery. If Taruk is sidelined, young forward Macki Samuskevich could step into a larger role. Asterisk asterisk. They said at asterisk asterast, “You never know how things are going to play out. I just wanted to come in and buy in and be part of the group and play whatever role I was put in and do it to the best I possibly can.” When you walk into this room and you see what guys are putting themselves through every day to prepare and to sacrifice and how dialed in they are, you just kind of follow suit. They’ve built an incredible culture in this room. It’s very easy to follow and when you do that, you just leave it all on the ice. We have a good team. So, good things happen in here and we have a lot of fun. Forward Brad Mand asterisk asterisk edge stat to watch asterisk asterisk. The Panthers dominated the 2025 playoffs in high danger goals, scoring 52. Sam Bennett was tied with Cora Perry for the most individual high danger goals eight each. Not far behind were the third line of Brad Mand seven, Anton Lundelle six and Ichulu Oarnan four. Bennett who won the Khan Smay trophy also tied Perry for second in high danger shots on goal 27 during the playoffs trailing only Conor McDavid 29. asterisk asterisk fantasy spin asterisk asterisk with the Panthers retaining Bennett Mand and Iek Bled their depth could positively impact the fantasy stock of younger players like Anton Lundell and Ichulu Starin both players were among the top scorers in the playoffs with Lu Starin and Lundell tied for second in five on five points 17 each and March fourth 16. Lundelle and Lu Starin who could play alongside Mand a sleeper picks for the late rounds of fantasy drafts. asterisk asterisk projected lineup asterisk asterisk asterisk asterisk forwards asterisk asterisk Carter Verheig Alexander Barkov Sam Reinhort Evan Rodriguez Sam Bennett Matthew Karachuk Ichu Leu Darnan Anton Londell Brad Mashand AJ Greer Thomas Nosek Joner Gajivich asterisk asterisk defense men asterisk asterisk Gustav Forsling Aaron Eek Niko Mikler Seth Jones Ditri Kulikorf Jeff Petri asterisk asterisk goanders asterisk asterisk Sergey Babski Daniel Tarasaurf but here’s where it gets controversial some fans might argue that the Panthers are overpaying for older players like Jeff Petri especially given his injury history. What do you think? Is it worth the risk to bring in experienced veterans or should the Panthers focus more on developing their younger talent? Share your thoughts in the comments.
00:00 – Intro
00:15 – 2025 NHL Offseason Winners and Losers: Top Moves and Surprises
04:42 – Florida Panthers NHL Offseason Moves: Petry & Tarasov Join for Stanley Cup Defense
1. 2025 NHL Offseason Winners and Losers: Top Moves and Surprises
The 2025 NHL offseason has been full of surprises and significant moves. From the Hurricanes’ impressive signings to the Kings’ puzzling decisions, we break down the biggest winners and losers. Discover how teams like the Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers are setting themselves up for success, while others struggle to find their footing. Plus, get a sneak peek at the exciting 2026 free agent class and the impact of NCAA hockey recruits on the future of the sport. Don’t miss out on the key insights and analysis from this offseason’s most impactful moves.
2. Florida Panthers NHL Offseason Moves: Petry & Tarasov Join for Stanley Cup Defense
Get the latest Florida Panthers news as the team prepares for a historic run at a third straight Stanley Cup. Veterans Jeff Petry and Daniil Tarasov join the roster this offseason, adding depth to defense and goaltending. Petry is expected to pair with Dmitry Kulikov or Uvis Balinskis, while Tarasov will back up Sergei Bobrovsky.
Jack Studnicka adds forward depth, while notable departures include Nate Schmidt and Nico Sturm. With most key players from their championship team returning—including Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand—Florida’s squad remains one of the NHL’s deepest.
Learn about the Panthers’ projected starting lineup, playoff stats, and see why fantasy hockey managers are watching Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen as breakout candidates. Plus, get insight on the team’s culture and leadership, led by captain Aleksander Barkov and coach Paul Maurice.
Stay tuned for previews, analysis, and highlights as the Panthers aim for greatness in the 2025-26 NHL season.
