The Carolina Hurricanes had a tough run in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, managing just one win before being overpowered by the Florida Panthers in five games. Now, the focus shifts to their offseason moves—this article breaks down and grades each of their free-agent signings, assessing whether they’ve made the right calls to bounce back stronger.

Editor’s Note: For Hurricanes fans, this is a reality check—playoff disappointment stings, but smart roster moves can turn things around. Free agency grades help gauge if the team is building a contender or just treading water. If the signings are strong, there’s hope; if not, it might be another long season ahead. Either way, it’s a key moment for the franchise’s direction.

The Boston Bruins had a rough 2025 season, unexpectedly missing the playoffs despite high expectations. They even fired their head coach, Jim Montgomery, mid-season, but it didn’t turn things around. Now, the article breaks down how well their free-agent signings might help them bounce back—grading each move like a report card.

Editor’s Note: For Bruins fans, this is a reality check. The team’s recent struggles make these signings crucial—they’re either the first steps toward redemption or signs of more trouble ahead. Hockey analysts (and anxious fans) will be watching closely to see if these moves pay off.

The Detroit Red Wings made some notable moves in the 2025 NHL free agency, starting with a trade for goaltender John Gibson. While they addressed key needs, there was still a sense they could have done more, leaving fans and analysts split on whether their offseason efforts were enough to push the team forward.

Editor’s Note: For Red Wings fans, this offseason was a mixed bag—some solid additions, but also lingering questions about whether the team did enough to compete at a higher level. Free agency grades matter because they signal whether a team is building toward contention or just treading water. Detroit’s moves here could shape their trajectory for years to come.

The Anaheim Ducks have been busy in the 2025 NHL free agency, making strategic signings they hope will set them up for a stronger season. With key players like Mason McTavish and Lukas Dostal still in extension talks, this article breaks down how well the team has done so far—grading each move while acknowledging there’s still work to be done.

Editor’s Note: For Ducks fans, this is a pulse check on whether the front office is making the right calls to turn the team around. Free agency moves can make or break a season, so seeing where the Ducks stand—and what’s left to do—gives a glimpse into their competitiveness for the upcoming year.

The New Jersey Devils had a decent 2024-25 season, making the playoffs but getting knocked out early due to injuries. Instead of big, flashy moves in free agency, GM Tom Fitzgerald played it smart—focusing on depth and value signings to shore up the roster. The article breaks down each signing with grades, giving fans a clear picture of whether the team improved or just treaded water.

Editor’s Note: For Devils fans, this isn’t a blockbuster offseason, but it’s not a disaster either. The team is betting on stability and filling gaps rather than swinging for the fences. If these signings pan out, they could be the difference between another early exit and a deeper playoff run next year. If not? Well, at least they didn’t break the bank.

The Florida Panthers, fresh off back-to-back Stanley Cup wins, are gunning for a historic three-peat—but first, they had to lock down key players in free agency. This article breaks down each signing, grading how well the moves set them up for another championship run.

Editor’s Note: The Panthers aren’t just celebrating—they’re reloading. Their free agency moves could determine whether they join the rarefied club of teams to win three straight Cups, making this a high-stakes offseason for fans and the league. If they pull it off, it’s legacy-defining stuff.