NHL Teams Face Offseason Salary Cap Challenges

As NHL teams enter the 2025 offseason, many are grappling with salary cap pressures and difficult roster decisions. The Florida Panthers, despite consecutive Stanley Cup wins, risk losing key players like Aaron Ekblad and are managing the toll of Coach Paul Maurice's intense system. The Edmonton Oilers face uncertainty around contract negotiations for stars Connor McDavid and Evan Bouchard, which could significantly affect their cap structure. The Nashville Predators are reevaluating investments in high-priced free agents Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault after underwhelming returns. Meanwhile, the Utah Mammoth and St. Louis Blues anticipate future cap challenges as their young stars approach the end of entry-level deals. The rising salary cap is forcing teams to reassess player values and navigate a free agent market headlined by Sam Bennett and John Tavares.