The NHL rumor mill has cycled down for the summer, it seems. As the draft approached, it felt like we were on the precipice of one of the busiest runs in recent memory.
John Tavares was set to alter the course of recent history. Erik Karlsson seemed as good as traded. Max Pacioretty appeared destined for a new zip code and, at the last moment, we learned that Artemi Panarin had decided that he wasn't interested in re-signing with the Columbus Blue Jackets "at this time."
Tavares obviously bolted for Toronto, but none of the other big moves happened, and hockey fans have been waiting for them to unfold ever since.