July 5th has been a notable day in hockey history, marked by significant player signings, managerial appointments, and memorable milestones.

One of the most impactful events on this day occurred in 2017 when the Edmonton Oilers secured their superstar, Connor McDavid, with an eight-year, $100 million contract extension. This deal, carrying an annual salary of $12.5 million, made McDavid the highest-paid player in the NHL at the time. Fresh off a season where he led the league with 100 points and earned the Hart Trophy as MVP, McDavid's signing solidified the Oilers' commitment to building their team around his exceptional talent.

In 2022, the San Jose Sharks made history by hiring Mike Grier as their new General Manager. Grier's appointment was particularly significant as he became the first Black GM in NHL history, marking a step towards greater diversity in hockey leadership.

The New York Islanders initiated their relationship with Mike Milbury on July 5, 1995, appointing him as their head coach. Milbury's tenure with the Islanders was multifaceted, as he later took on the role of General Manager in December of the same year, a position he held until 2006. During his time, he also served as head coach on three separate occasions. Five years later, on July 5, 2000, the Columbus Blue Jackets named Dave King as their first head coach in franchise history.

Several notable hockey figures were also born on this day, including Doug Wilson (born in 1957), who was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks with the sixth overall pick in the 1977 NHL Amateur Draft. Also born on this day was John LeClair (born in 1969). He was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. Additionally, July 5th marks the anniversary of the birth of several other NHL players.

Daniel Alfredsson, a standout player for the Ottawa Senators, also has a connection to this day in hockey history. Although not directly related to events on July 5th, his career is noteworthy, especially considering he was a late-round draft pick. Selected by the Senators in the sixth round (133rd overall) of the 1994 Entry Draft, Alfredsson exceeded expectations and won the Calder Trophy as the top rookie in the 1995-96 season, scoring 26 goals and 61 points.