NBA, NHL Free Agency Sees Major Moves, Surprises

The NBA and NHL free agency periods have produced notable signings and strategic contract moves. In the NBA, Memphis secured value deals with Ty Jerome and Santi Aldama, while the Houston Rockets managed contracts effectively and extended Jabari Smith Jr., with Fred VanVleet highlighted as a key part of their plans. Top NBA draft pick Cooper Flagg is set to debut with the Dallas Mavericks in the Summer League. In the NHL, the Vegas Golden Knights acquired and extended Mitch Marner on a surprisingly low deal, while the Islanders and Devils made team-friendly signings. The Florida Panthers retained core players Aaron Ekblad, Sam Bennett, and Brad Marchand, and Vancouver re-signed Brock Boeser. These transactions reflect a blend of aggressive acquisitions, strategic retention, and unexpected contract negotiations shaping both leagues.