Anaheim Ducks defenseman Tyson Hinds has signed a two-year, $1.8 million contract. The 23-year-old made his first six NHL appearances in 2025-26 and is expected to have a full-time role next season. In his six outings, Hinds didn't register any points, but he averaged one hit per game and had 10 blocks across 15:37 of ice time per game. He held a regular role during the postseason, recording one assist, one SOG, 17 hits, and five blocks in nine games. Hinds went down in history as only the second player to earn his first career point with the Ducks in the playoffs. While it's always exciting to see new talent enter the league, Hinds doesn't offer much for fantasy purposes.

Utah Mammoth Barrett Hayton will stay in Salt Lake City after the team matched the New Jersey Devils' offer sheet, ESPN's Kristen Shilton reports. Hayton inked a one-year, $4.775 million deal. Under the terms of the offer sheet, the Mammoth aren't allowed to trade Hayton for 12 months. However, he will be eligible to sign a contract extension on Jan. 1. While Hayton had a disappointing 2025-26 campaign, Mammoth general manager Bill Armstrong called him "a key piece" for the team. The former fifth-overall pick produced 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 67 games. Utah will want to see the 2024-25 version of Hayton next season. Two seasons ago, he had a career year with 20 goals and 46 points.

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard (shoulder) underwent surgery and won't be available for the start of the 2026-27 season, ESPN's Greg Wyshynski reports. Chicago announced that Bedard is expected to make a full recovery in "an approximate timeline of four months." The new season will start in late September. Bedard, who is a restricted free agent, injured his left shoulder a week ago during a training session. Last season, the young superstar missed time due to a right shoulder injury, finishing with 75 points (30 goals, 45 assists) in 69 contests. It's unfortunate that Bedard has suffered another injury blow. However, he should provide outstanding fantasy value once he has recovered. Until then, Frank Nazar appears poised to serve as the top-line center.

Center David Kampf has signed a three-year deal with HC Litvnov in the Czech Extraliga. He will return to his home country after nine seasons in the NHL. Kampf split the 2025-26 campaign between the Vancouver Canucks and Washington Capitals. He couldn't establish himself on either squad, tallying only six points (two goals, four assists) in 40 games. In June, Washington traded his rights to the Buffalo Sabres as part of the Alex Tuch deal. Kampf also played for the Chicago Blackhawks and Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL, scoring 50 goals and 149 points in 576 career games. Given his age -- Kampf turned 31 in January -- it appears unlikely that he will return to North America.