Overview

• Toronto has yet to reach a settlement with restricted free agent Nicholas Robertson before his August 3 arbitration hearing, raising concerns about potential impacts on his confidence and trade value.
• Ilya Samsonov’s 2023–24 arbitration award and subsequent performance slump serve as a cautionary example of how hearings can undermine a player’s development.
• Robertson posted 15 goals and seven assists over 69 games last season and is projected to earn about $1.55 million per year under an arbitrator’s midpoint award.
• Forward Blake Biondi signed with the AHL’s Chicago Wolves in the Hurricanes organization after going unsigned by Montreal, and goaltender Evan Gardner is competing for a spot on Canada’s roster at the World Junior Summer Showcase.
• Edmonton is eyeing potential midseason trades that might include goaltender Stuart Skinner, and Carolina is considering Shayne Gostisbehere as a budget-friendly alternative to pursuing Erik Karlsson.