Apr 10, 2021; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov (71) attempts to defend against Los Angeles Kings defenseman Olli Maatta (6) during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
It’s that time of year again. The year-end awards have been announced, the Stanley Cup has been awarded, and now teams are faced with the task of improving their rosters. Unfortunately, that also means cutting ties with players that haven’t lived up to their contracts, with the NHL buyout period set to open 48 hours after the Stanley Cup Finals.