The 2026 NHL free agent class hasn’t turned out like many had been hoping. Lots of the top free agents have already been re-signed. A number of the top pending free agents will even be locked up between now and the opening of free agency on July 1st.
Multiple teams are expected to have major cap flexibility. Because the offseason approaches, contenders will probably be on the lookout for that one missing piece. Rebuilding clubs may attempt to speed up their timelines by landing a marquee player. With salary cap projections rising, the bidding wars could possibly be more aggressive than ever.
The 2026 free agent class offers loads of opportunities for teams to reshape their roster, but adding a star player likely won’t be available in free agency.
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