Overheard at NHLPA rookie showcase: Memories of Gaudreau, plus McGroarty, Gauthier talk trade aftermath, other buzz

The Vegas Golden Knights are among the NHL teams with the most salary cap space going into free agency , giving the Western Conference champions some chips to put on the table in a bid to get back to the Stanley Cup Final. Vegas had nearly $30 million to spend going into the weekend, according to spotrac.com

Tampa has opened up the separation that talent alone can’t create. The Lightning have conquered the complacency that creeps in over the course of the season.

Toronto and Montreal have quickly established themselves as the North division powers, but it would be unwise to count out the Winnipeg Jets.