From star-studded names to fourth-line role players, in free agency, every choice matters — and change comes quickly. Stay informed with Sportsnet’s coverage of hockey’s most hectic season.
Watch in real time as free agency opens on July 13 with Hockey Central’s Signing Season show, starting at 11:30 a.m. ET / 8:30 a.m. PT.
The show can be seen on Sportsnet, streamed live on Sportsnet NOW, or watched on this page once the broadcast begins.
Understand the off-season stakes for Canadian teams
Signing season is here. Day by day, hour by hour, NHL general managers are making choices that will shape the future of their teams. Here’s what you need to know.
• Calgary: The Flames knew Johnny Gaudreau could leave. All along, Plan B included swinging for the fences.
• Winnipeg: Historically, the Jets have spent more time searching for value than getting into a bidding war. This year, there may be money to spend, but there are large holes to fill.
• Ottawa: Instead of building for tomorrow, on an endless loop, the Senators are telling their fans and their young core they are all about today.
• Toronto: Kyle Dubas appears ready to play moneyball again, in search of those second-tier (third-tier?) UFA diamonds in the rough.
• Vancouver:The Canucks have needs. But, with little salary-cap space to fulfill them, their focus will shift to depth building instead of star chasing.
• Edmonton: The time has come, after futile attempts the past two summers, to acquire the goalie who can open the Oilers’ Stanley Cup window.
• Montreal: If you’re expecting fireworks from the Canadiens, the birthday sparklers that are likely on their way might disappoint you — and you may not even get those.
