The 2019 NHL Draft happened in Vancouver this past week. While many young prospects were ready to shine, major moves were being made behind the scenes.
In a brief recap of the draft, USA forward Jack Hughes was the first overall selection by the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers selected Finnish star Kappo Kakko with the second pick.
Now, back to business. On Saturday afternoon, news broke that the Nashville Predators traded All-Star defenseman P.K. Subban to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Steven Santini, Jeremy Davies and two draft picks. The Predators did NOT retain any of Subban’s $9 million salary.
The Vancouver Canucks made a big splash by acquiring veteran center J.T Miller from the Tampa Bay Lightning. The team got a conditional first-round pick in the 2020 draft, a third-round selection in this year’s draft, and goaltender Marek Mazanec. The Canucks are also taking full control of Miller’s contract.
In an effort to relieve some heavy cap space, the Toronto Maple Leafs traded seasoned veteran Patrick Marleau to the Carolina Hurricanes. The team received a sixth-round pick, a conditional first-round pick, and a seventh-round pick in the 2020 draft.
It’s not even July 1st, and there are some big names available in free agency. With the summer just beginning and big trades already happening, it should be an exciting offseason!
