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Several NHL teams signed questionable contracts this summer, despite a rising salary cap. Among the worst deals are Sam Bennett's 8-year, $8 million AAV contract with the Panthers, Alex Romanov's 8-year, $6.25 million AAV deal with the Islanders, and Ivan Provorov's 7-year, $8.5 million AAV contract with the Blue Jackets. Other criticized signings include Connor Brown (Devils), Ryan Lindgren (Kraken), Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin (Kings), Trent Frederic (Oilers), Nicolas Hague (Predators), and Tanner Jeannot (Bruins). These contracts raise concerns about long-term cap implications and player value.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.