Colorado Avalanche
Jonathan Drouin was once thought of as the first overall pick in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, but he dropped to third and has had his own struggles through his career.
He is hoping that by joining former junior teammate Nathan MacKinnon he can get his career going again. The former top prospect signed a one-year deal worth $825,000.
The club also signed Bowen Byram to a two-year bridge deal worth $3.85 Million per season. The 22-year old is setting himself for a huge pay day at the end of the deal as he already has 43 points through 91 career games.
Dallas Stars
In a surprising move, Matt Duchene was bought out of the final three years of his contract in Nashville. Duchene was coming off a 56-point season which was one year after collecting 43-goals and 86-points the year previous.
Dallas scooped in a signed the Ontario native to a one-year deal worth $3 Million. If you look at points per dollar average this upcoming season, Duchene could take the win against other free agent signings.
Minnesota Wild
The Minnesota Wild’s cap space was very limited as they are hit with the next two years of nearly $15 Million being eaten up from the buyouts of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter’s contracts.
The Wild’s biggest signing was that of Vinni Lettieri to a two-year deal at the league minimum. Lettieri signed with his hometown team, but he may not get a chance with the club as he is more of an AHL caliber player.