Sammi’s Daily Mix: Capitals Return Soon, NHL Free Agency Heats Up Again

As we take another step closer toward the start of the NHL preseason, the Washington Capitals and other teams are starting to ponder what their lineups could look like. At the same time, there’s still some outstanding business left to be done in NHL Free Agency, and some teams are making big — and small — last-minute signings.

Here are all the latest news and notes from across the NHL.

Capitals Links

• With training camp right around the corner, the Capitals and league appear headed toward a more “normal” season. J.J. Regan and Andrew Gillis ponder how and if this will impact teams’ performance. (NBC Sports Washington)
• Speaking of training camp and the preseason, prospects have the opportunity to make a major impact and prove their worth as they begin their own camps. Jon Sorenson breaks down wild card players to watch in Washington’s system, from Mitchell Gibson to Tobias Geisser. (NoVa Caps)
• Meanwhile, Anthony Mantha can take a major step forward with the Capitals this season. Here’s how. (Washington Hockey Now)

NHL Links

• The Sharks and Tomas Hertl are at a crossroads, and San Jose now faces a tough choice with Tomas Hertl. Adam Gretz takes a look at the dynamic between the star and the team and why a potential team “reset” could tear them apart. (Pro Hockey Talk)
• New York made four key signings on Wednesday, inking Anthony Beauvillier, Ilya Sorokin, Casey Cizikas and Kyle Palmieri. Peter Botte examines the deals and how it will affect the Islanders’ chances. (New York Post)
• St. Louis also re-signed defenseman Colton Parayko to an eight-year, $52 million deal. Tom Timmermann shares more on the extension and why the Blues are hoping for a 2018-19 version of the 6-foot-6 blueliner.

Sammi’s Top Shelf Takes

• With 41 days until opening night, I’m expecting a big year from Anthony Mantha. Looking at his play, the 26-year-old had a strong end to the 2020-21 campaign and started to find his footing under head coach Peter Laviolette. We’ll see that continue to grow.
• Meanwhile, Zach Parise confirmed to The Athletic’s Michael Russo that he is in fact headed to the Island and agreed to a deal earlier in the summer. He’s a first-class guy who deserves the opportunity to continue proving his worth, and he’ll be a good fit in the Metro Division.
• Buffalo also extended Casey Mittlestadt to a three-year deal with an AAV of $2.5 million. It’s a solid deal for an impressive young forward.

3️⃣ more years‼️ pic.twitter.com/TLTpNlE8yd

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) September 2, 2021