The Daily: Bratt Re-Signs; Buyouts Begin Today

Instead of a buyout, the New Jersey Devils re-upped with one of their important young players. Jesper Bratt signed an eight-year, $63M extension on Thursday which solidifies the young core the Devils are trying to build for nearly a decade. New Jersey Hockey Now writes that the Devils now have just over $26M to get Timo Meier and nine others inked onto the roster.

Bratt had 32 goals amongst 73 points in a full season of play.

Buyouts Begin Today

Meanwhile, with teams able to buy out contracts today one of the first official “tasks” of the offseason for every NHL team has begun.  While the Chicago Blackhawks are trying to buy more contracts rather buying anyone out, there are teams eyeing the financials. The Pittsburgh Penguins could be looking at Mikael Granlund writes Pittsburgh Hockey Now’s Dan Kingerski to help ease its burden. He also lists several players, who should they not be bought out, maybe the Blackhawks could take on with a sweetener or two.

Blackhawks In Case You Missed It

• The Final Hockey Now Mock Draft has the Blackhawks going defense instead of scoring
• Stanley Cup Final provided moments of levity for life and for hockey
• A little Blackhawks nostalgia as CHN recalls the 2015 Stanley Cup clincher

Hockey Now Network

Boston: The latest in the series of Boston Bruins RFA’s looks at Jeremy Swayman

Buffalo: Are the Buffalo Sabres checking in on Brett Pesche?

Detroit: The Detroit Tigers Miguel Cabrera finally hit a home run and got a chance at the dugout opportunity of shooting into the net. It went as expected.  Detroit Red Wings

Florida: Despite a broken sternum, Matthew Tkachuk gave his all for the Florida Panthers

Montreal: The Montreal Canadiens must proceed with caution with free agency

Philadelphia: If the Philadelphia Flyers indeed decide to go defense in the draft, David Reinbacher might be their man

San Jose: Let the Erik Karlsson trade watch officially begin – San Jose Sharks

Washington: Predicting who the Washington Capitals may use a buyout on

Vegas: Enjoy this Vegas – never take it take for granted – Vegas Golden Knights