The NHL has released its list of restricted and unrestricted free agents, with several players signing new contracts as free agency opened. Teams across the league have been active, securing talent for the upcoming season.

The Edmonton Oilers have been particularly busy, adding several players to their roster. Among their signings is Frederik Andersen, a goaltender who signed a one-year contract. Andersen previously played for the Carolina Hurricanes and contributed to their playoff run, achieving a 13-2 record, a 1.89 goals-against average, and a .913 save percentage with three shutouts in the playoffs. The Oilers also re-signed Kasperi Kapanen to a one-year deal and brought in Mathieu Joseph on a one-year contract. Joseph, a winger, previously played under associate coach D.J. Smith with the Ottawa Senators and later with the Los Angeles Kings.

Another significant signing for the Oilers is defenseman Ryan Shea, who agreed to a five-year contract. Shea had a productive season with Pittsburgh, recording 35 points in 80 games, and is noted for his puck-moving ability and penalty-kill contributions.

Western Conference teams bolster rosters

In the Western Conference, the Dallas Stars have signed Joel Kiviranta to a one-year contract. Kiviranta previously played for the Colorado Avalanche, where he posted a career-high 16 goals and 23 points in the 2024-25 season. The Winnipeg Jets have strengthened their defense by signing Mario Ferraro to a three-year deal. Ferraro, a defensive defenseman from the Sharks, recorded seven goals and 23 points this past season and led his former team with 150 blocked shots.

The Vancouver Canucks have added defensive defenseman Jamie Oleksiak on a two-year contract. Oleksiak, who stands 6-foot-7 and weighs 252 pounds, had 112 hits and 106 blocked shots in the previous season and played a secondary role on Seattle‘s penalty kill. His signing comes as the Canucks traded Marcus Pettersson to the New York Rangers. The Utah Mammoth secured Anders Lee with a three-year contract. Lee, a power forward, recorded 19 goals and 42 points this past season.

The Anaheim Ducks have been active in free agency, signing goaltender Laurent Brossoit to a one-year contract, adding him to a roster that includes Lukas Dostal and Ville Husso. They also signed Jeff Malott to a three-year deal and defenseman Nick Jensen to a two-year contract. Jensen, a right-shooting puck-mover, is expected to help fill a gap on Anaheim’s defense following the departures of Jacob Trouba and Radko Gudas.

Eastern Conference teams make moves

In the Eastern Conference, the Washington Capitals signed Boone Jenner to a four-year contract. Jenner, a former captain for the Blue Jackets, is known for his physicality and secondary scoring. The Detroit Red Wings have added goaltender Daniil Tarasov on a one-year deal. Tarasov, who had an .895 save percentage and a 3.05 goals-against average in 33 games with the Panthers, replaces Cam Talbot as a stop-gap netminder. The Pittsburgh Penguins have brought in veteran defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk on a two-year contract after his six seasons with the Capitals.

The Florida Panthers signed Lars Eller to a one-year contract. Eller, a defensive center, recorded 15 points in 68 games with Ottawa. The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed Zack MacEwen to a two-year contract and Brandon Duhaime to a three-year deal. The Buffalo Sabres added Conor Sheary on a one-year contract. The St. Louis Blues signed Dillon Dube to a one-year contract; Dube recorded 20 goals and 37 points in 46 games with the AHL‘s Springfield Thunderbirds this past season.

The San Jose Sharks have signed goaltender Eric Comrie to a two-year contract. Comrie’s stats were noted to have worsened in Winnipeg this past season. The New York Rangers signed Joseph Veleno to a one-year contract. Veleno had 28 points in 80 games in 2023-24. The Minnesota Wild re-signed Zach Bogosian to a one-year contract, continuing his role as a depth player for the team.

Source: nhl.com

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Brown’s Trade Speculation Continues

Jaylen Brown’s name continues to be part of trade discussions, following the Boston Celtics’ previous efforts to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, which involved Brown as a potential trade piece. There is a growing possibility that the Celtics might move Brown to build a different core around Jayson Tatum. However, if the offers are not satisfactory, the team could opt to keep him and pursue another deep playoff run with a fully healthy Tatum.

Brown is considered a polarizing player within the NBA. While some front-office personnel believe he is a top-12 player when performing at his best, others view him as more of a top 25-to-30 player, an All-Star better suited as a second option on a strong team. This difference in valuation complicates determining his trade return, especially given his supermax contract.

When Brown is at his peak, such as his performance this past season where he averaged 29 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, earning him a second-team All-NBA selection, he is seen as a dynamic player due to his driving ability, shot-making, and physicality. His improvement as a ballhandler and his athletic gifts allow him to challenge opponents when he has driving lanes. Evaluators also highlight his defense, noting his effectiveness as an on-ball defender and his ability to switch onto different players.

Conversely, some executives point to Brown’s struggles with passing and decision-making for his teammates compared to other elite players. One specific instance mentioned was the Philadelphia 76ers’ first-round playoff victory against the Celtics, where Joel Embiid’s return to protect the rim reportedly clouded Brown’s vision on drives. In the final three games of that series, Brown shot 42 percent from the field, 32 percent from three-point range, and averaged nearly four turnovers per game.

Brown can also face challenges within team defensive schemes, sometimes reacting slowly or getting caught ball-watching. Some executives suggest that his game improved significantly under coach Joe Mazzulla in Boston, who implemented an offensive system that emphasized five-out spacing, providing Brown with more consistent driving lanes than he might find on other teams. These observations are not intended to diminish Brown’s abilities but rather to highlight perceived flaws compared to other superstars, raising concerns about acquiring him at his current salary.

Potential Trade Destinations and Considerations

The uncertainty surrounding Brown’s value makes it difficult to determine a fair return for the Celtics. The team would likely need to acquire a player who can replicate Brown’s scoring and fit well into Mazzulla’s offense, potentially alongside significant draft-pick capital to balance any deal. The goal would be to improve the team in the near future, even if it means trading Brown for a player who might be considered less impactful.

One potential destination is the LA Clippers. A hypothetical trade could involve the Clippers sending Kawhi Leonard, Cam Christie, and a future first-round pick for Brown. This move could appeal to the Clippers if they are unable to agree on an extension with Leonard, as Brown is under contract for multiple years and could be a central figure alongside Darius Garland and Keaton Wagler. For the Celtics, acquiring Leonard could maximize their title chances for the upcoming season, as many front-office executives consider Leonard to be the better player, despite Brown receiving more All-NBA votes this past season. Leonard averaged 28 points per game, shooting 50.5 percent from the field, 39 percent from three, and 89 percent from the foul line from Christmas onward last season.

However, this trade might not materialize if the Clippers decide to retain Leonard, who is considered an elite player when available. If Leonard is not willing to agree to an extension with Boston, it could leave the Celtics vulnerable to him leaving after one season. Another scenario could see the Clippers embracing a youth movement centered around Wagler and Garland.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are another potential trade partner, possibly offering Evan Mobley and Sam Merrill for Brown and Luka Garza. This could be an option for the Cavaliers if they seek to contend and believe their current frontcourt combination has run its course. Brown would provide the team with an All-NBA wing, offering lineup versatility and flexibility. His presence could allow them to match up with playoff teams in more diverse ways and enhance their defensive switchability, which could benefit James Harden’s defensive skill set.

For the Celtics, acquiring Mobley would mean bringing in a younger, less expensive player who could fit well into Boston’s scheme due to his ability to dribble, pass, and shoot from the four and five positions. His defensive versatility could help the Celtics maintain their preferred five-out scheme in the playoffs. Mobley’s offensive game might also benefit from the spacing provided by Boston’s system; according to Databallr, Mobley averaged 22.5 points per 75 possessions when Jarrett Allen was off the court, compared to 16.8 points per 75 with Allen on, suggesting he performs better with more interior space. This could be advantageous even in lineups with Neemias Queta, given Boston’s strategy of using bigs on the perimeter for screens and dribble-handoffs.

The discussion around Brown’s future also brings up past considerations. Jake Fischer noted that Boston has had a lingering thought about Brown’s trade potential, referencing a time in 2022 when the Celtics reportedly offered Brown in a deal for Kevin Durant before ultimately moving forward with their current roster.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

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The WNBA Free Agency period for 2026 is set to open on April 6, with over 100 free agents available for teams to negotiate with. The Designation Period will run from April 6-7, followed by a three-day Negotiation Period from April 8-10, during which teams can discuss potential contracts with players. Signings may commence as early as April 11, 2026.

Among the notable developments, A’ja Wilson has committed to staying with the Las Vegas Aces, stating, “I’m not leaving Vegas, so I’m not looking anywhere.” Similarly, Breanna Stewart has announced her intention to re-sign with the New York Liberty, asserting, “I’m gonna just set the record straight here: I will be staying in New York.” Sabrina Ionescu has echoed this sentiment, confirming her commitment to the Liberty by saying, “I’m where I’m supposed to be.” These decisions highlight a trend of star players opting for stability with their current teams.

The upcoming free agency period comes on the heels of a condensed offseason, a result of extended labor negotiations between the league and the players’ union. This situation has raised questions about how player movement might be affected, as teams and players navigate a shorter timeline for negotiations and signings.

In addition to player commitments, the Connecticut Sun is set to relocate to Houston, which may impact the dynamics of the league and its teams. The 2026 WNBA Draft is scheduled for April 13, just days after the free agency period begins, adding another layer of complexity for teams looking to build their rosters.

As the free agency period unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) will influence player salaries and contract lengths. There is speculation that many players may opt for one-year deals, as noted by Kendra Andrews, who remarked, “There could be a lot of one-year deals signed by players with the teams for which they played last year.” This could lead to a more fluid player market in the coming season.

Noteworthy among the free agents is Nneka Ogwumike, who averaged 18.3 points and 7.0 rebounds last season, making her a valuable asset for any team. Meanwhile, Arike Ogunbowale faces a challenging offseason after recording a career-low shooting percentage of 36.4% and an average of 15.5 points. Her performance will be closely monitored as teams assess their needs.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how the condensed offseason will affect player movement and whether expansion teams in Portland and Toronto will successfully attract free agents. The league’s potential expansion could reshape the competitive landscape, making it crucial for teams to strategize effectively during this free agency period.

As training camps are set to open on April 19, teams will be eager to finalize their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season. With significant player movements and the potential for new teams, the 2026 WNBA Free Agency promises to be a pivotal moment in the league’s evolution.

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As of now, Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Makayla Timpson are the only players secured for the upcoming season. Clark, who is in the third year of her rookie contract, is eligible for a maximum extension in 2027, while Boston had a standout 2025 season and is under contract after the Fever exercised her team option. Timpson, the only rookie to remain on the roster throughout the last season, adds depth to the team’s future plans.

Meanwhile, Kelsey Mitchell, who averaged an impressive 20.2 points per game, is an unrestricted free agent. The Fever have the option to core her again, which would allow them to retain her rights while she explores other opportunities. Mitchell’s scoring prowess makes her a valuable asset, and her decision will significantly impact the team’s strategy moving forward.

Other notable players entering free agency include Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham, and Damiris Dantas, all of whom are unrestricted free agents. Additionally, Lexie Hull will enter the 2026 league year as a restricted free agent, while Chloe Bibby is classified as a reserved free agent due to her limited years of service. These players’ statuses will be critical as the Fever look to build a competitive roster.

In terms of salary cap, the Fever have a total of $1,380,958 committed to the three players under contract, with a salary cap of $7,000,000 for the 2026 season. This leaves ample room for the team to make strategic signings or re-sign key players, depending on how they navigate the free agency landscape.

The new collective bargaining agreement has resulted in many veteran players becoming free agents, which adds another layer of complexity to the Fever’s offseason. With several key contributors potentially leaving, the front office must act decisively to retain talent and attract new players to enhance the team’s competitiveness.

Reaction from the field

As the Fever prepare for the offseason, the uncertainty surrounding their free agents raises questions about the direction of the franchise. With several players, including Kelsey Mitchell and Natasha Howard, potentially testing the market, the team must weigh their options carefully. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future of these players, but their decisions will undoubtedly shape the Fever’s trajectory in the coming years.

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Sabrina Ionescu has confirmed her intention to remain with the New York Liberty as the WNBA free agency period is set to open on April 11, 2026. This announcement comes amid significant changes in the league, including a substantial increase in the salary cap from $1.5 million to $7 million for the upcoming season.

In addition to the salary cap increase, supermax contracts will see a dramatic rise to $1.4 million, up from approximately $250,000. Minimum salaries will also exceed $300,000, with the average salary projected to be around $600,000. These changes are part of a new collective bargaining agreement reached between the WNBA and its players’ union last month.

Breanna Stewart, a prominent figure in the league, remarked, “Good luck to everybody else in free agency, but I’m not a part of that,” indicating her own commitment to her current team. Similarly, A’ja Wilson stated, “I’m not leaving Vegas, so I’m not looking anywhere,” reflecting a trend among top players to remain with their respective franchises.

The WNBA collegiate draft is scheduled for April 13, 2026, followed by the opening of training camps on April 19, 2026. The regular season is set to commence on May 8, 2026, marking an exciting time for fans and players alike.

These developments signal a new era for the WNBA, as teams and players navigate the implications of the revised financial landscape. The increased financial resources may lead to more competitive teams and a heightened level of play across the league.

As the free agency period approaches, many observers are keen to see how teams will utilize their new financial flexibility. The decisions made in the coming weeks could reshape the league’s competitive dynamics.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific player movements and signings, but the excitement surrounding the upcoming season is palpable.

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What does the future hold for Jazz Chisholm Jr. as he enters his final year before free agency? The answer appears to be a lucrative contract with the New York Yankees, potentially worth $300 million over ten years.

In the previous season, Chisholm recorded a .242 batting average, hitting 31 home runs and stealing 31 bases. His performance has positioned him as a key player for the Yankees, who acquired him in a midseason trade with the Miami Marlins in 2024.

Chisholm has expressed ambitions for the upcoming season, aiming for a remarkable 50-50 season, which would see him achieve both 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases. However, he struck out 148 times in 531 plate appearances in 2025, contributing to a lifetime strikeout rate of 27.6 percent.

Analysts predict that Chisholm could sign a 10-year, $300 million deal with the Yankees, a significant investment that reflects his potential. Jim Bowden noted, “Jazz Chisholm Jr. signs a 10-year, $300 million deal to remain with the Yankees.” This aligns with Chisholm’s own statements about seeking a decade-long contract worth approximately $35 million annually.

While Chisholm’s goals are ambitious, they also place considerable pressure on him and the Yankees as they prepare for the new season. As one analyst remarked, “It’s great that Chisholm has set some sky-high goals for himself, but it also puts him — and the Yankees — in a tremendously dangerous position heading into the new season.”

Chisholm’s ability to achieve his 50-50 goal remains uncertain, as does the impact of his contract demands on his performance. Details remain unconfirmed.

As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Chisholm navigates this critical year in his career and whether he can meet the high expectations he has set for himself.

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Najee Harris, the former Pittsburgh Steelers running back, visited the Seattle Seahawks on March 25, 2026, for a free agent meeting. This development comes after Harris suffered a torn Achilles that ended his 2025 season with the Los Angeles Chargers in Week Three.

During his time with the Steelers, Harris had an impressive track record, recording at least 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first four seasons. His best performance came in 2021 when he rushed for a career-high 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl as a rookie.

Harris’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including being the all-time leading rusher at the University of Alabama, where he was a two-time national champion and a consensus first-team All-American in 2020. He was selected by Pittsburgh with the No. 24 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

The Seahawks are currently looking to bolster their running back position following the departure of Kenneth Walker, who left for the Kansas City Chiefs as a free agent. Additionally, Zach Charbonnet is recovering from a torn ACL, which has left the team in need of depth at the position.

In light of these developments, the Seahawks recently signed Emanuel Wilson to a one-year deal. Harris’s visit indicates the team’s interest in adding a proven player to their roster as they navigate the offseason.

Throughout his career, Harris has accumulated a total of 4,373 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. In his last season with the Chargers, he managed to run 15 times for 61 yards and caught three passes for 25 yards, showcasing his versatility despite the injury setback.

As the Seahawks consider their options, Harris’s performance in the upcoming season will be crucial for his career trajectory. The outcome of this meeting could have significant implications for both Harris and the Seahawks as they prepare for the next NFL season.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specifics of Harris’s potential contract or the Seahawks’ plans moving forward. The football community will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.

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AJ Dillon, a former standout running back for the Green Bay Packers, has signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers. This move comes after a challenging season in which Dillon played for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he struggled to make a significant impact on the field. Prior to his time with the Eagles, Dillon had established himself as a formidable player in the NFL, particularly during his tenure with the Packers.

Dillon’s journey in the NFL has seen its share of ups and downs. He missed the entire 2024 season due to a neck injury, which raised concerns about his future in the league. However, he made a return in 2025, playing in seven games for the Eagles, where he managed to rush for only 60 yards on 12 carries. His performance was notably diminished after the Eagles acquired Tank Bigsby, which limited Dillon’s opportunities to contribute.

During his first five seasons with the Packers, Dillon showcased his potential, accumulating 2,428 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns from 2020 to 2023. His career-high rushing yards in a single season came in 2021, when he rushed for 803 yards. Dillon’s impressive college career at Boston College, where he led the ACC with 1,685 rushing yards in his final season, further solidified his reputation as a talented running back.

Upon signing with the Panthers, Dillon expressed his excitement on social media, stating, “Let’s go!!!” and “Keep Pounding,” signaling his eagerness to contribute to his new team. The Panthers are looking to bolster their running game, especially after losing Rico Dowdle, a 1,000-yard rusher, to the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. Dillon’s addition could provide the Panthers with a much-needed boost in their backfield.

As Dillon transitions to his role with the Panthers, observers are keen to see how he will adapt after a season of limited play. The Panthers are hopeful that Dillon can regain his form and become a significant part of their offensive strategy. His experience and skill set could be invaluable as the team looks to improve its performance in the upcoming season.

While Dillon’s past performance raises questions about his current capabilities, the Panthers are optimistic about his potential. The team is looking to build a competitive roster, and Dillon’s signing is a step in that direction. His previous success in the league suggests that he has the ability to make an impact if he can stay healthy and find his rhythm.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific terms of Dillon’s contract, but the one-year deal indicates that both parties are looking for a fresh start. As the Panthers prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on Dillon to see if he can reclaim his status as a top running back in the league.

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Danny Pinter has officially signed a one-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens, marking a significant transition for the former center of the Indianapolis Colts. The contract is valued at $2.25 million, with a maximum potential worth of $2.75 million.

Pinter, who was selected in the fifth round (No. 149 overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Colts, has spent his entire football career in Indiana. He is a native of South Bend and played college football at Ball State.

In 2024, Pinter showcased his potential by appearing in 14 games and starting at center in Weeks 13 and 15, earning a career-high Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 82.9 in Week 13. However, his performance dipped in 2025, where he played only 139 snaps in a reserve role, finishing the season with a PFF grade of 56.5 over six appearances.

His move to the Ravens comes after a challenging season in 2023, where he missed most of the year due to a fractured left ankle. Prior to his injury, Pinter had appeared in all 17 games for the Colts in 2025, making one start.

The Ravens’ decision to sign Pinter follows the departure of Tyler Linderbaum, highlighting the team’s need for a more experienced veteran center. Pinter’s familiarity with the league and his previous experience with the Colts may provide the Ravens with the stability they seek at the center position.

Pinter’s four-year rookie deal with the Colts was worth $3,643,698, which included a signing bonus of $348,696. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Ravens, observers will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new role and contributes to the team’s offensive line.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding his expected impact on the Ravens’ lineup and how he will fit into their overall strategy moving forward.

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Malik Willis has officially signed a three-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, valued at $67.5 million, with $45 million of that amount fully guaranteed. This contract marks a significant opportunity for Willis as he aims to establish himself as a full-time starter in the NFL.

For the 2026 season, Willis is set to receive $23.5 million in cash, while his cap hit will be $5.6 million. The financial structure of the contract includes a cap hit of $25.9 million for 2027 and $26.9 million for 2028. Additionally, there is a void year in 2029 that carries a cap hit of $8.9 million.

The Dolphins are currently undergoing a roster rebuild, a situation that Willis will need to navigate as he transitions into his new role. Prior to joining Miami, Willis played for the Tennessee Titans and the Green Bay Packers, where he experienced varying levels of success.

Observers note that Willis’s journey has been challenging; he struggled in a difficult situation with the Titans but found a better environment with the Packers. “Feel bad for Malik Willis. His second chance to be a full-time starter will be in a full tear down,” commented analyst Ted Nguyen, highlighting the challenges ahead for the young quarterback.

Despite the hurdles, Willis’s new contract reflects his aspirations. As one observer noted, “Malik Willis got what he was seeking in free agency, a strong contract to be a starting NFL quarterback.” This deal not only secures his financial future but also positions him to potentially lead the Dolphins as they rebuild their roster.

As the Dolphins move forward, the expectations for Willis will be high, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how he performs under these new circumstances. The upcoming season will be crucial for him to prove his capabilities as a starting quarterback in the league.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of his contract on the Dolphins’ salary cap strategy and how it will affect their roster decisions moving forward.

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