August 1st marks a day of both historical significance and current developments in the world of hockey. From notable player signings to franchise milestones and recent news, here's a look at what's happening "Today in Hockey History."
One of the most significant events on this day occurred in 1961 when the New York Rangers signed Rod Gilbert, who would become the greatest goal scorer in the franchise's history. Gilbert had an outstanding junior career with the Guelph Royals in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) before inking his first NHL contract. Despite a back injury that limited him to one game in the 1961-62 season, he returned for four playoff games and went on to score 11 goals and 31 points in his rookie season. In the 1971-72 season, Gilbert reached a career-high of 43 goals and 97 points.
August 1st also saw Bryan Murray named the new general manager of the Florida Panthers in 1994, replacing Clarke. Murray led the Panthers to the Stanley Cup Final in 1997.
In 1979, the New York Islanders announced their new Central Hockey League (CHL) franchise, the Indianapolis Checkers. The Checkers served as the Islanders' farm team until the CHL folded in 1984. During their tenure, the Checkers won the Adams Cup twice, in 1982 and 1983. James Devellano, who had been scouting for the Islanders since 1974, became the Checkers' GM, and Bert Marshall, a former Islanders defenseman and assistant coach, took on the head coaching role.
Looking at more recent news, several NHL teams are making headlines as August begins in 2025.
In Vancouver, the Canucks' trade of Dakota Joshua may be part of a larger plan to make a deeper playoff run. Clearing Joshua's salary could be the first step in positioning themselves for a more impactful move, potentially eyeing a second-line center. Jake DeBrusk of the Canucks aims to build on his career-high 28 goals, focusing on more consistent scoring, especially at home.
The San Jose Sharks' defenseman Mario Ferraro is reportedly open to a trade as he enters the final year of his contract. With the Sharks adding new defensemen, Ferraro could thrive in a different role on a contender, with the Avalanche, Lightning, Jets, and Flames reportedly interested.
Contract talks between the Calgary Flames and restricted free agent Connor Zary are ongoing, with the Flames preferring a short-term deal while Zary seeks a longer contract. The Flames also extended forward Martin Pospisil for three years with an average annual value of $2.5M.
The Buffalo Sabres signed goalie Devon Levi to a two-year deal. The Sabres also agreed to a 10-year extension of the naming rights for their home arena, which will continue to be called KeyBank Center through the 2035-36 season.
In Boston, Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy anticipates the team will likely play without a captain for the 2025-26 season. New Bruins head coach Marco Sturm wants to assess the players before deciding on a captain.
Dylan Samberg, a top shutdown defenseman for the Winnipeg Jets, signed a three-year, $17.25 million contract extension. Samberg's shutdown role and increased ice time have been invaluable to the Jets.
Anaheim Ducks prospect Beckett Sennecke has a "real chance" to make the roster out of training camp. Cayden Lindstrom of the Columbus Blue Jackets is preparing for his first season with Michigan State after recovering from a back injury. New York Islanders prospect Victor Eklund will not attend rookie camp or training camp this fall and will return to Sweden to play for Djugardens.
