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NHL Free Agency Sees Major Moves

July 08, 2026

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The NHL's free agency period has seen significant player movements, highlighted by the Nashville Predators signing center Mavrik Bourque to a six-year, $33 million deal. Bourque, acquired from the Dallas Stars, had a productive second NHL season, posting 20 goals and 21 assists.

Predators general manager Chris MacFarland described Bourque's acquisition as a major move for the team, as they aim to reshape their roster. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a deal with Gavin McKenna, the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL draft, signing him to a three-year entry-level contract.

McKenna is expected to play a vital role in Toronto's offense after a standout junior and collegiate career, where he set multiple records at Penn State. Additionally, the Maple Leafs bolstered their goaltending by signing two-time Stanley Cup champion Sergei Bobrovsky to a three-year, $21 million contract, marking a significant investment in their netminder position.

According to CBS Sports, the free agency landscape remains competitive as teams navigate the challenges of the salary cap and player availability.

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