NHL free agency live tracker: Signings, analysis, grades and buzz

Typically, NHL free agency begins on July 1 each offseason: a cherished tradition on Canada Day up north, and a pre-Independence Day festival of commerce for those of us in the United States.

On July 1, 2021, the Stanley Cup had yet to be awarded. But 27 days later, we are ready for the frenzy to begin.

While the key dates have shifted, the goal of free agency has not: GMs around the NHL hope to land the game-changing veteran who can boost their contention status or bolster their core with the glue that builds championships.

Here's our continuously updated tracker, featuring a list of every player signed, along with analysis on the biggest deals and buzz on what could happen next. Note that…