Kirill Kaprizov, Jared Spurgeon and Drew Doughty Set to Return, while Valeri Nichushkin Suffers Setback

THN.com’s Summer Splash series highlights the Nashville Predators, ranked 23rd, after a disappointing 2022-23 season. General Manager Barry Trotz made minimal changes, adding Erik Haula, Nicolas Hague, and Nick Perbix while losing a few lower-tier players; the team aims for improvement in 2025-26, banking on a stronger defense and the return of star defenseman Roman Josi. Want More Context? 🔎

The St. Louis Blues have re-signed forward Nikita Alexandrov to a one-year, two-way contract worth $750,000 at the NHL level and $300,000 at the AHL level, with a $350,000 guarantee. At 24, Alexandrov had an impressive season with the Springfield Thunderbirds, scoring 21 goals and 49 points in 48 games, but faces competition for a roster spot with the Blues. Want More Context? 🔎

In recent years, Ottawa Senators fans have shifted from wondering about the team's rebuilding process to questioning their status as contenders, especially after GM Steve Staios' significant acquisitions, including Lars Eller, Dylan Cozens, and Fabian Zetterlund. Following a successful post-trade deadline run and a strong finish to last season, the Senators now appear poised to compete with the NHL's best, bolstered by improved performance metrics and renewed confidence. Want More Context? 🔎