With the 2025 NHL draft now concluded, the focus shifts to free agency. The official signing period begins shortly, although teams have already been active with re-signings and trades over the past few days.
Every general manager is looking to optimize their team`s chances of reaching the Stanley Cup playoffs next spring and competing for the championship. This guide outlines how each of the 32 franchises can achieve a high grade for their offseason performance, including a look at their available cap space and key players entering restricted and unrestricted free agency.
ATLANTIC DIVISION
Boston Bruins
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $12,743,333
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: General Manager Don Sweeney appears committed to retaining the team`s existing talent. He has already secured Mason Lohrei with a two-year extension and is reportedly discussing a return for Henri Jokiharju to maintain defensive depth. Morgan Geekie, who had a career-best season with 33 goals and 57 points, also signed a new deal and is expected to be a key contributor. Jokiharju`s re-signing was officially announced recently.
Beyond internal signings, Sweeney needs to acquire external help to boost Boston`s offensive output. The Bruins ranked 28th in offense last season, with only Geekie and David Pastrnak scoring 20 or more goals. Addressing this significant need through free agency is crucial for the team.
Buffalo Sabres
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Bowen Byram, G Devon Levi
- Available Cap Space:
- $20,840,319
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: GM Kevyn Adams indicated he had a strategy, which became evident with the trade of RFA JJ Peterka to Utah, seemingly initiating a series of moves for Buffalo. Adams subsequently extended pending RFA Jack Quinn on a two-year deal, but more work remains.
If Adams plans to part ways with Byram, now is the opportune time while his value is high. Extending Alex Tuch should then be a top priority; the forward and team leader is eligible to re-sign soon, and securing him would provide much-needed positive momentum. The status of goaltender Devon Levi is also a key RFA decision.
Improving the team`s consistency is another goal. Adams should target free agents who can provide stability. Players like Mason Appleton or Connor Brown could enhance the bottom six and add necessary depth. The key is for Adams to remain proactive and avoid complacency despite the team`s recent lack of success.
Detroit Red Wings
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Patrick Kane
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Jonatan Berggren, F Elmer Soderblom
- Available Cap Space:
- $18,411,628
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Red Wings made a significant move during draft weekend by acquiring goaltender John Gibson from Anaheim for Petr Mrazek and draft picks. This trade provides a needed upgrade in net, pairing Gibson with veteran Cam Talbot and representing a strong start to the offseason for GM Steve Yzerman.
Yzerman aims to continue refining the roster to push for a playoff return. Re-signing Patrick Kane, who performed well at even strength and on special teams and brings veteran experience, would be a beneficial boost.
The Red Wings` defense is clearly in need of improvement. The team allowed the 12th-most goals last season, and the veteran defensemen on the second and third pairings struggled. UFA options like Vladislav Gavrikov could help, or Yzerman might pursue a trade for a player such as RFA K`Andre Miller. Regardless of the method, finding one or two defensemen to alleviate pressure on Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson is essential.
Florida Panthers
- 2024-25 Result:
- Won the Stanley Cup
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Brad Marchand, D Nate Schmidt, G Vitek Vanecek
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Mackie Samoskevich
- Available Cap Space:
- $4,900,000
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Panthers have already addressed their backup goaltending by acquiring Daniil Tarasov from Columbus to replace departing UFA Vitek Vanecek, checking off one item on GM Bill Zito`s list. Star players like Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad have publicly committed to staying, with Ekblad signing an eight-year extension at a $6.1 million AAV.
With limited cap space remaining, Zito`s options for additional signings are restricted. A potential trade might be necessary to retain Brad Marchand. Fortunately for Zito, the team has few other weaknesses. Retaining Marchand shouldn`t require an exorbitant contract given his age and role.
Montreal Canadiens
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Christian Dvorak
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- G Jakub Dobes
- Available Cap Space:
- $-3,394,166 (currently over the cap)
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Montreal surprised many by making the postseason in 2024-25. GM Kent Hughes made an even bigger splash by acquiring Noah Dobson from the Islanders on draft day and signing him to an eight-year, $76 million contract. Although the cost was high (including two first-round picks), adding the 25-year-old Dobson to a defense corps with Lane Hutson makes the blue line formidable.
The Canadiens` most pressing need now is a second-line center, a position with limited options in free agency. While Anthony Beauvillier has been mentioned as a possibility, he doesn`t represent a long-term solution. Re-signing Christian Dvorak would primarily serve as a stopgap.
Hughes could also bolster the wing positions or execute a trade to acquire a genuine top-six center. Regardless of the approach, the front office needs to inject more offensive energy into the lineup without sacrificing too much prospect depth or future draft capital.
Ottawa Senators
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Nick Cousins, G Anton Forsberg
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $8,194,286
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Senators` main focus was securing Claude Giroux. GM Steve Staois accomplished this by signing Giroux to a one-year extension. This deal is vital for maintaining the consistency that helped the team reach the playoffs last season.
Staois has publicly expressed confidence in the current roster and may choose not to pursue significant external additions, believing that retaining Giroux`s leadership is sufficient for the team`s rising core. Ottawa doesn`t appear to have glaring weaknesses in other areas, having built their team gradually.
Prioritizing internal growth over chasing outside help seems to be the team`s mindset. An extension for goalie Anton Forsberg would align with this, although he is rumored to be considering testing the open market.
Tampa Bay Lightning
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Nick Perbix
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Gage Goncalves
- Available Cap Space:
- $5,480,001
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: For Tampa Bay, anything is possible, as GM Julien BriseBois typically finds ways to make things happen despite constraints. The Lightning lacked momentum in the recent postseason. BriseBois aimed to address this by leveraging limited cap space to bring in new players, particularly on defense. However, securing Nick Perbix and Gage Goncalves is a necessary minimum.
Both players have contributed effectively, with Goncalves just beginning to establish himself in the NHL. BriseBois has a history of significant trades, and Goncalves could potentially be part of a trade package if the GM decides to make another bold move to position the Lightning as a top contender in the Sunshine State.
Toronto Maple Leafs
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the second round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Steven Lorentz, F Mitch Marner
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Nick Robertson
- Available Cap Space:
- $13,570,581
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: GM Brad Treliving successfully completed a top priority by extending John Tavares for four years recently. Barring an imminent trade of his rights, Mitch Marner is highly likely to depart in free agency, which will be a significant loss for the Leafs` offense. Losing Tavares as well would have severely weakened their center depth.
With Tavares secured and the expectation of not allocating substantial cap space to Marner, Treliving was able to sign RFA Matthew Knies to an excellent six-year extension with a $7.75 million AAV. This is a major win for the organization.
Now, Treliving should look to strengthen the defense, which would be a wise move. Re-signing Steven Lorentz and Nick Robertson should also be considered.
METROPOLITAN DIVISION
Carolina Hurricanes
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the conference finals
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Brent Burns, D Dmitry Orlov, F Jack Roslovic
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $26,715,958
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Carolina has consistently fallen short in the Eastern Conference finals in recent years. GM Erik Tulsky`s task is to acquire players who can help the team overcome this hurdle. The primary need is adding skilled scoring wingers with a proven track record, preferably for the top nine. A second-line center would also be beneficial, and bolstering the right side of the defense would strengthen the roster if cap space allows.
The Hurricanes averaged less than three goals per game in the playoffs and struggled particularly against Florida`s strong defense. The team might have too many similar-style players, making them easier to neutralize. Tulsky should aim to add some physicality and grit to complement the existing skill.
Columbus Blue Jackets
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Christian Fischer, F Luke Kunin, F Kevin Labanc, D Ivan Provorov
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Jordan Harris, F Dmitri Voronkov
- Available Cap Space:
- $28,533,752
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Columbus was active before free agency, trading for Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood from Colorado. Coyle enhances the middle six and provides valuable center flexibility. Wood could contribute to the bottom six if he can regain his form after recent challenging seasons. This depth is helpful but currently insufficient to significantly alter the team`s trajectory.
GM Don Waddell should pursue another center and a top-six winger to complement the young core. The right side of the defense also needs improvement beyond Dante Fabbro`s extension. The trade of goalie Daniil Tarasov raises questions about the goaltending situation. With Elvis Merzlikins and Jet Greaves currently, Waddell needs to explore upgrading the netminding to give the team its best chance.
New Jersey Devils
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Nathan Bastian, F Daniel Sprong, G Jake Allen
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Nolan Foote, D Luke Hughes
- Available Cap Space:
- $14,394,167
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Devils` primary focus will rightly be on securing a new contract for Luke Hughes, a crucial defenseman and key piece of the franchise`s future. Once that is addressed, GM Tom Fitzgerald can concentrate on improving New Jersey`s offense. There is a critical need for a center, especially if RFA Cody Glass is not qualified, as Dawson Mercer may not be ready for that role next season.
Boosting the team`s scoring is another significant task. New Jersey ranked 20th offensively last season, an issue even when Jack Hughes was healthy before his injury. The backup goaltender position also needs attention. Can the team rely on Nico Daws behind Jacob Markstrom? Free agency offers limited goalie options, but a trade could be pursued to improve the situation in net.
New York Islanders
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Scott Perunovich
- Available Cap Space:
- $14,693,334
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Incoming GM Mathieu Darche quickly made his mark by trading Noah Dobson to Montreal on draft weekend. This move left the Islanders with only four signed defensemen for the upcoming season, though Darche moved quickly to sign Alexander Romanov to an eight-year contract. Top draft pick Matthew Schaefer could also potentially join the rotation.
Ensuring Ilya Sorokin has adequate support in goal next season is the team`s next priority. Semyon Varlamov was injured and didn`t return last season, impacting the team`s goaltending. At 37, Varlamov might not be the ideal partner for a top-tier goalie like Sorokin. Darche must decide whether to trade Varlamov or trust he can provide strong minutes. The Islanders also need more scoring depth, having ranked 28th offensively last season, but they will have to prioritize which needs to address first.
New York Rangers
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Will Cuylle, F Arthur Kaliyev, D K`Andre Miller
- Available Cap Space:
- $12,197,142
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: New York has already traded Chris Kreider to Anaheim, a move that seemed likely this offseason. This freed up cap space that can be used to help the team return to the playoffs. A crucial decision involves K`Andre Miller: will the Rangers keep him, trade him, and where does he fit long-term? Will Cuylle had an excellent second season and should be signed quickly to avoid offer-sheet risks. Given the limited remaining cap space, GM Chris Drury`s main focus might be on retaining his current players unless another veteran trade occurs.
Philadelphia Flyers
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Jakob Pelletier, D Cam York
- Available Cap Space:
- $15,141,905
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Philadelphia`s main needs for 2025-26 were strengthening the center position and acquiring another goaltender. The trade for Trevor Zegras theoretically addresses the first need. Now, the Flyers must find a goaltender to complement Samuel Ersson. Philadelphia had the league`s lowest team save percentage last season (.872), and neither Ivan Fedotov nor Aleksei Kolosov appear reliable enough moving forward. GM Danny Briere will need to search the free agent market, which offers limited options, for another netminder.
A trade for Thatcher Demko, with his connection to new coach Rick Tocchet and reasonable contract, might be the best option despite his injury history. Alex Lyon or Jake Allen could also be viable veteran choices to support Ersson, whom the organization still sees as a future piece. If cap space allows after addressing goaltending, adding a left-handed defenseman would also improve the team.
Pittsburgh Penguins
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Connor Dewar, F Philip Tomasino
- Available Cap Space:
- $19,616,904
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: While trading Sidney Crosby is highly unlikely, GM Kyle Dubas should explore trading Erik Karlsson. Karlsson has shown signs of age recently, and the Penguins need to get younger and faster to become a playoff contender. Moving Karlsson`s contract won`t be easy, but if Dubas can find a way, it would significantly benefit the team. Dubas is likely to re-sign both Connor Dewar and Philip Tomasino.
The team`s goaltending confidence is also a question mark. Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic remain, but their performance was inconsistent last season. Could a Karlsson trade potentially bring back a goaltender to help address this? It`s a possibility.
Washington Capitals
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the second round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Ethan Bear, F Anthony Beauvillier, F Andrew Mangiapane
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Alexander Alexeyev
- Available Cap Space:
- $9,375,000
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: GM Chris Patrick stated a desire to add more skilled players. This might seem surprising for the second-highest scoring team in 2024-25, but it makes sense considering their offense was boosted by several players having career years. Relying on this happening again is risky. Retaining Anthony Beauvillier would help maintain bottom-six depth affordably. The team will see turnover regardless with T.J. Oshie`s retirement, so prioritizing scoring additions is a sensible approach.
CENTRAL DIVISION
Chicago Blackhawks
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- None
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Louis Crevier, D Wyatt Kaiser, F Philipp Kurashev, G Arvid Soderblom
- Available Cap Space:
- $22,495,357
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The goal is to improve the roster while simultaneously advancing the team`s rebuilding process. The Blackhawks were in the bottom 10 for goals scored per game and allowed the second-most goals per game. GM Kyle Davidson acquired Andre Burakovsky via trade to add a potential scoring option. Davidson could use free agency or another trade to find an experienced scorer who fits with their young core. The Blackhawks might also seek to add at least two experienced defensemen to address last season`s defensive issues, especially given that seven of their current defensemen under contract or team control are younger than 24.
Colorado Avalanche
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Jonathan Drouin, F Joel Kiviranta, D Ryan Lindgren, F Jimmy Vesey
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $8,950,000
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Avalanche need to strengthen their roster to contend for another Stanley Cup. Building a solid supporting cast has been a challenge since their 2022 championship. They need to retool their bottom-six forward group and third defense pairing. While options are available, limited cap space remains an issue. Trading Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood generated $8.2 million in cap room but also created two more vacancies in the bottom six that need to be filled.
Dallas Stars
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the conference finals
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Cody Ceci, F Evgenii Dadonov, F Mikael Granlund
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $980,084
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Stars must reinforce their bottom-six forward group. Similar to other Western Conference contenders, Dallas is in a championship window but needs to rebuild its depth forwards to play a crucial role in pursuing their goal. Although the Stars could potentially seek help elsewhere, their bottom six appears to be the most significant need. With only 10 forwards currently under contract, the team needs to create more cap space to acquire the best possible options.
Minnesota Wild
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Justin Brazeau, D Jon Merrill, F Gustav Nyquist
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Marco Rossi
- Available Cap Space:
- $17,711,835
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Wild need to solidify their roster by adding more goal scorers. GM Bill Guerin indicated that finding another center was part of the team`s plans after the season. Several potential free-agent centers seemed available, but many like Sam Bennett, Matt Duchene, Brock Nelson, and John Tavares re-signed with their teams, and Jonathan Toews signed with the Jets.
If the Wild choose a different direction, they could target a top-six or top-nine winger. Perhaps a seven-time 20-goal scorer who happens to be from the Twin Cities might become available in free agency.
Nashville Predators
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Marc Del Gaizo, F Jakub Vrana
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Luke Evangelista
- Available Cap Space:
- $13,519,610
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Predators must commit to the path they believe will lead to success. The mix of experienced and inexperienced players contributed to their shift from a playoff team to a lottery team after “winning July 1” last year, as mentioned by GM Barry Trotz. Trotz sees potential in the young players and believes they can mesh with the veterans. However, the team might still choose to add another top-nine forward and/or a top-six defenseman for added security. Trotz recently acquired defenseman Nicolas Hague from the Golden Knights, signing him to a four-year contract worth $5.5 million annually.
St. Louis Blues
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Radek Faksa, D Ryan Suter
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $1,625,150
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Blues need to add at least one more defenseman. GM Doug Armstrong indicated that Torey Krug is not expected to play next season, leaving the Blues needing a top-six defenseman and possibly another for depth. Armstrong mentioned that the team will have cap relief from Krug`s $6.5 million annual contract via long-term injured reserve. Aside from defense, the Blues appear set with their top-nine forwards and have both goaltenders under contract, with Joel Hofer signing a two-year extension recently.
Utah Mammoth
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Robert Bortuzzo, F Nick Bjugstad, F Michael Carcone
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Jack McBain
- Available Cap Space:
- $14,982,143
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Utah should aggressively pursue top-six forwards. They began this by trading for JJ Peterka and signing him to a five-year, $7.7 million annual contract extension. Other potential top-six forwards might become available on the market. If not, Utah could seek a trade to add another forward to a team that seems on the verge of playoff contention. Utah was among the top 10 teams in shots and scoring chances per 60 minutes last season but finished 21st in goals per game, indicating a need for finishing talent.
Winnipeg Jets
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the second round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Mason Appleton, F Nikolaj Ehlers, F Brandon Tanev
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Morgan Barron, F Rasmus Kupari, D Dylan Samberg, F Gabriel Vilardi
- Available Cap Space:
- $23,513,810
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Jets need to strategically sign more forwards. The situation with Nikolaj Ehlers could conclude with a new contract, but he is also one of the strongest options potentially available in free agency. Whether Ehlers stays or not, the Jets have cap space to add scoring help. However, they must balance this with other needs. They need to either re-sign Ehlers or find a suitable replacement. Securing a new deal for 27-goal scorer Gabriel Vilardi is also crucial. They also need to strengthen their bottom-six forward group and re-sign defenseman Dylan Samberg.
PACIFIC DIVISION
Anaheim Ducks
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Robby Fabbri, F Brock McGinn
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- G Lukas Dostal, D Drew Helleson, F Mason McTavish, F Isac Lundestrom
- Available Cap Space:
- $35,988,812
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Ducks should spend cautiously, keeping future needs in mind. GM Pat Verbeek has significant cap space and could potentially add top-six, middle-six, or bottom-six forwards. While defensive additions are possible, it might take playing time away from the team`s promising young defensemen. Any decision Verbeek makes must also consider that key players like Lukas Dostal, Mason McTavish, and Isac Lundestrom need new contracts this offseason, with Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, Jackson LaCombe, Pavel Mintyukov, and Olen Zellweger all becoming RFAs after the next season.
Calgary Flames
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Anthony Mantha, F Kevin Rooney, G Dan Vladar
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Morgan Frost, F Connor Zary
- Available Cap Space:
- $19,820,000
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Flames need to acquire forwards capable of consistently finishing scoring chances. This is complicated by a free agent market where options could lead to bidding wars. The Flames could participate, or they might determine that pursuing trades makes more sense for addressing their needs. They also need to structure new contracts for Morgan Frost and Connor Zary, deciding between short-term bridge deals or longer-term agreements for cost certainty.
Edmonton Oilers
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the Cup Final
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Connor Brown, D John Klingberg, F Corey Perry, F Jeff Skinner
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Evan Bouchard
- Available Cap Space:
- $11,050,834
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Oilers must re-sign Evan Bouchard and then enhance their supporting cast. There appears to be at least one opening in the top six, several on the fourth line, and at least one among the defensemen. Goaltending remains a question after inconsistent performances in consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances. The Oilers have clear areas to address but need to create more cap space or find players at team-friendly prices. All these decisions occur with the world`s best player becoming an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season, which could heavily influence their strategy.
Los Angeles Kings
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the first round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- D Vladislav Gavrikov, F Tanner Jeannot, F Andrei Kuzmenko, G David Rittich
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Alex Laferriere
- Available Cap Space:
- $23,210,000
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: New GM Ken Holland should make one or two significant moves. He has been linked to various top-six forwards, including Brock Boeser, Mitch Marner, and Brad Marchand. The Kings could also pursue another top-four defenseman, either by re-signing Vladislav Gavrikov or acquiring someone else. However, these pursuits must be balanced with the need to retain sufficient cap space to add experience to the fourth line and potentially upgrade the backup goaltender position.
San Jose Sharks
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- G Alexandar Georgiev, D Jan Rutta
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Thomas Bordeleau, F Klim Kostin, F Nikolai Kovalenko
- Available Cap Space:
- $44,090,832
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Sharks should continue building through their rebuild. Finishing last in the league indicates needs across the board – top nine, bottom six, defense, and adding a goaltender to potentially partner with prospect Yaroslav Askarov. With Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith entering their second seasons, the focus remains on the future. The Sharks could again sign veteran players to short-term deals with the goal of trading them later for draft capital.
Seattle Kraken
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Michael Eyssimont
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- D Ryker Evans, F Kaapo Kakko, F Tye Kartye
- Available Cap Space:
- $18,057,621
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: Seattle should continue adding players who help establish consistency. Moves like trading for Mason Marchment, a 22-goal scorer who could bolster the top nine, or Frederick Gaudreau, a two-way center for the bottom six with multiple 14+ goal seasons, fit this pattern. These types of acquisitions can help the Kraken find more stability and potentially build a deeper roster than they`ve had since their second season when they made the playoffs.
Vancouver Canucks
- 2024-25 Result:
- Missed the playoffs
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Brock Boeser, F Pius Suter
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- None
- Available Cap Space:
- $7,031,667
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Canucks need more help in the top nine forwards. Consistent scoring was a problem last season and could remain so next season. While there`s a chance they could re-sign Brock Boeser and Pius Suter, losing both would create further gaps. If they depart, those spots will need filling. The Canucks should also add another bottom-pairing defenseman, recognizing that limited cap space restricts how much they can do.
Vegas Golden Knights
- 2024-25 Result:
- Lost in the second round
- Notable Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA):
- F Victor Olofsson, F Tanner Pearson, G Ilya Samsonov
- Notable Restricted Free Agents (RFA):
- F Alexander Holtz
- Available Cap Space:
- $2,186,429
Strategic Priorities for the Offseason: The Golden Knights aim to strengthen their roster to pursue a second Stanley Cup. There`s always an expectation that GM Kelly McCrimmon will make a significant move, although the nature of it is often unpredictable. Recent reports linked them to a potential sign-and-trade for Mitch Marner. Additionally, defenseman Alex Pietrangelo is reportedly expected to miss the 2025-26 season due to multiple surgeries. Hours after this report, they traded pending RFA defenseman Nicolas Hague for forward Colton Sissons and defenseman Jeremy Lauzon, adding depth while reducing their cap space significantly. Things are never dull in Vegas!
Gareth Tenby