Fantucchio’s Focus: Matthews Headlines Day of Deals Across NHL

Good morning; my name is Andrew Fantucchio. It’s Thursday, August 24, and here’s what I’m focused on around the NHL today.

Maple Leafs Reach Deal With Matthews:

From the outset of the offseason, the Toronto Maple Leafs have had one thing above all else on their to-do list: lock up Auston Matthews long-term. On Wednesday, the Leafs made Matthews the NHL’s highest-paid player with a four-year deal worth $13.25 million per season.

FOUR MORE FOR THIRTY FOUR ⚪️🔵 pic.twitter.com/yL94Hf8Jag

— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) August 23, 2023

Horvat Will Get Chance At Redemption:

Bo Horvat had a disappointing first run with the New York Islanders last season. This year, he’ll get his chance to prove his worth.

Islanders Exaggerations and Expectations: Bo Horvat

Rangers Re-Sign Lafrenière:

The New York Rangers signed Alexis Lafrenière to a new two-year contract that will pay the former first-overall draft pick $2.35 million per season.

Alexis Lafrenière has reportedly signed a two-year contract with the @NYRangers!#NYR pic.twitter.com/C6NW4irD91

— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) August 23, 2023

Coyotes Extend Head C0ach Tourigny:

The Arizona Coyotes have agreed on a three-year contract extension with their head coach, André Tourigny.

NEWS: Coyotes Announce Three-Year Contract Extension for Head Coach André Tourignyhttps://t.co/tj4LSpjMG8

— Arizona Coyotes PR (@AZCoyotesPR) August 23, 2023

In three seasons under Tourigny, Arizona has a combined record of 53-90-21.

Kevin Hayes Pays Tribute to Late Brother, Jimmy:

Former NHL forward Jimmy Hayes tragically passed away on August 23, 2021. On the second anniversary of his passing, Hayes’ brother, Kevin, paid tribute to him.

Two years ago, Jimmy Hayes passed away.

His brother, @KevinPHayes12, wrote this for him.https://t.co/XUIly8vEX8

— The Players' Tribune (@PlayersTribune) August 23, 2023

More From National Hockey Now:

Washington: Despite Evgeni Kuzentzov’s recent struggles, his new head coach still views him as a valuable asset to the Capitals.

Boston: The Bruins remain without a No. 1 center and are reportedly still interested in getting Elias Lindholm from the Calgary Flames.

Florida: Carter Verhaege is carving out his own legacy with the Florida Panthers.

Montreal: Kirby Dach is looking to build off a strong season last year by improving his shot mechanics.

Nashville: A review of the five worst free agent signings from the David Poile era.

Colorado: The Avalanche are getting their first look at one of their newest players.

Vegas: Where would the Golden Knights be if they never traded for Jack Eichel?

Follow Andrew Fantucchio on Twitter: @A_Fantucchio