NHL Offseason Sees Limited Free Agents, Major Contracts, Cap Space Impact

The 2025 NHL free-agent market saw a scarcity of top-tier talent as many notable players re-signed with their current teams before July 1, prompting several teams to turn to the trade market to address roster needs amid a significant rise in the salary cap. Key trades included K'Andre Miller moving to the Carolina Hurricanes and Zack Bolduc to the Montreal Canadiens, though some players like Patrik Laine and Brayden Schenn are no longer considered trade candidates. The Vancouver Canucks secured Brock Boeser with a seven-year, $7.25 million average annual value contract, regarded as a bargain given his scoring prowess, while the Anaheim Ducks signed Mikael Granlund to a three-year deal worth $7 million per year, which some analysts view as slightly high but manageable due to the team's cap space. Controversial or questionable contract decisions during the offseason involved teams like the Blackhawks, Bruins, Oilers, Kings, and Ducks, with some deals drawing criticism for their length or value. Despite the thin free-agent market, a few standout signings such as Boeser, Granlund, and Andrew Drouin have been highlighted as impactful additions that could shape their teams’ competitiveness in the upcoming season.