The NHL rumor mill is churning as teams prepare for the upcoming free agency period and look to solidify their rosters for the 2025-2026 season. Among the hottest topics are potential contract negotiations for Evan Bouchard of the Edmonton Oilers and Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, with other notable players also generating buzz.
In Edmonton, Oilers general manager Stan Bowman has indicated that addressing both the team's offense and goaltending will be priorities this offseason. However, before any new acquisitions can be made, the Oilers must first address the contract situation of star defenseman Evan Bouchard. Bouchard, a restricted free agent, is coming off a strong season and is expected to command a significant raise from his previous $3.9 million AAV. While the Oilers would prefer a long-term deal, there is speculation that the two sides could agree to a one-year contract. This would allow the Oilers to navigate their current cap situation, especially with Connor McDavid eligible for an extension, and postpone a larger negotiation to next summer. Chris Johnston of The Athletic suggested that a one-year deal could be reached through arbitration or by simply agreeing on a price. Bouchard himself has expressed his desire to remain in Edmonton. Several analysts predict that Bouchard's next contract will exceed $10 million annually, with Frank Seravalli noting his consistent playoff performance as a key factor driving up his value.
Meanwhile, in Toronto, the future of Mitch Marner remains uncertain. After another disappointing playoff run, Marner's future with the Maple Leafs is in question, with many believing that a change of scenery might benefit both the player and the team. While a long-term deal was initially anticipated, recent reports suggest Marner is considering a two-year contract worth between $12 and $13 million per year. This strategy would allow him to re-enter free agency when the NHL salary cap is expected to surge to $113-114 million in 2027-28. Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic noted that this information has been heard from multiple NHL teams. Although Marner would be taking a risk, it would give him a chance to capitalize on the rising cap and potentially secure an even larger payday. Several teams are rumored to be interested in acquiring Marner, including the Vegas Golden Knights, Los Angeles Kings, and Carolina Hurricanes. Some reports suggest that the Golden Knights and Kings are at the top of Marner's wish list. It's also speculated that Marner's decision to leave Toronto is not solely about money but also about seeking a fresh start and a better chance to win a Stanley Cup.
Beyond Bouchard and Marner, other NHL players are also making headlines in the rumor mill. John Tavares's future with the Maple Leafs is uncertain, with the two sides reportedly not close to a deal. The Columbus Blue Jackets are looking to add talent but are not on Marner's preferred list. Brad Marchand of the Florida Panthers has expressed his desire to stay with the team, although other teams are expected to target him if he becomes a free agent. Additionally, Rasmus Andersson and the Calgary Flames may be heading for a split, with the Flames reportedly willing to trade him.
As the offseason progresses, expect more news and developments.
