National Hockey

TORONTO — The NHL draft is in the rearview mirror and the biggest names are already off the free-agent market, but that doesn't mean there isn't more work to be done by general managers before training camps begin in September.

LOS ANGELES — A judge has dismissed a misdemeanour domestic abuse conviction against former Los Angeles Kings defenceman Slava Voynov, a move that could clear a path for his return to the NHL.

The thrill is back for Ryan O'Reilly. A trade to the St. Louis Blues has O'Reilly excited about hockey and the future after three consecutive losing seasons with the Buffalo Sabres had him talking about losing his love for the game.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — As the son of a journeyman hockey player and eventual coach, Buffalo Sabres newly acquired forward Tage Thompson became accustomed to never staying put in one place for too long.

Toronto Maple Leafs fans have taken to social media to express their excitement about the team's latest acquisition, John Tavares. The Mississauga, Ont.

BUFFALO, N.Y.

NASHVILLE — The Nashville Predators have signed forward Zac Rinaldo to a one-year, two-way contract. Predators general manager David Poile announced the signing Monday.

The fireworks came early for Canada Day weekend in Toronto. Soon after the NHL free agency window officially opened on Sunday, superstar centre John Tavares announced he was signing with his hometown Maple Leafs.

When John Tavares' contract ran out with the New York Islanders, he took the opportunity to talk with other teams. "I felt like I owed it to myself to see what else was out there," Tavares said.

When Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold changed general managers this spring, he was adamant about the strength of a roster he believed only needed some tweaking and not a total overhaul.