NHL Free Agency 2025: Ehlers Remains Top Unsigned Player as Offseason Moves Continue

Nikolaj Ehlers, the sought-after winger from Denmark, is still without a contract 30 hours into NHL free agency, making him the most prominent player available as teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season. While Ehlers weighs his options, several other players have found new homes, and teams are making strategic moves to bolster their lineups for the 2025-2026 campaign.

Ehlers’ Options and Market Value

Ehlers, a 29-year-old who has spent his entire nine-year NHL career with the Winnipeg jets, is in a unique position, having passed on signing a contract on the opening day of free agency. Reportedly, the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Washington Capitals are among the teams vying for his services. Hurricanes General manager Eric Tulsky confirmed discussions with Ehlers’ agent, noting the high demand for the player.With the Hurricanes looking to bolster their offensive capabilities, Ehlers could be a key addition.

The market has been set by recent signings, including Brock Boeser’s $50 million+ deal with Vancouver and mikael Granlund’s $7 million annual contract with Anaheim. Given the record-high $95.5 million salary cap and the limited number of elite free agents available, Ehlers is poised to possibly secure the most lucrative contract among players switching teams this summer.

Did You Know? The NHL salary cap has seen important increases over the past decade, reflecting the league’s growing revenue and popularity. This allows teams more adaptability in signing top free agents.

Key Signings and Team Movements

The Edmonton Oilers, fresh off signing Andrew Mangiapane, added Curtis Lazar at the league minimum of $775,000 to replace departing wingers Connor Brown and Corey Perry. Oilers GM Stan Bowman emphasized the importance of new energy within the group,as they aim to return to the Stanley Cup Final after two consecutive Western Conference titles.

The New York Islanders secured Maxim Shabanov, a highly sought-after KHL forward, while the New York Rangers signed Taylor Raddysh to a two-year, $3 million contract. Other notable signings include cody Class re-signing with New Jersey for $5 million over two years, Anthony Mantha and Alexander Alexeyev joining Pittsburgh, Pius Suter heading to St. Louis, and Mason Appleton landing in Detroit.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on teams that missed the playoffs last season. They are often the most aggressive in free agency,looking to quickly improve their rosters and compete for a playoff spot.

Remaining Free Agents and Potential Impacts

Ehlers’ decision is expected to influence the market for other forwards,including Anthony Beauvillier,Jack Roslovic,and Jeff Skinner,who may be considered as option options for teams that miss out on signing Ehlers. Several notable defensemen, such as Dmitry Orlov, Brent Burns, and Matt Grzelcyk, along with goaltenders Ilya Samsonov and Alexandar Georgiev, are also still available.

San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier acknowledged the initial frenzy of free agency and anticipates a settling period as teams reassess their needs and available options. The Sharks, needing to reach the salary floor, are expected to remain active in the market.

Sabres’ Strategy with Bowen Byram

The Buffalo Sabres face uncertainty regarding restricted free agent Bowen Byram. General Manager Kevyn Adams has stated his willingness to match any offer sheet for the 24-year-old defenseman but also remains open to trading him if a suitable deal arises. Adams emphasized that the Sabres are not actively seeking to move Byram for future assets but will consider offers that improve the team’s current roster.The Sabres are aiming to build a competitive team and Byram’s future is a key piece of that puzzle.

what are your predictions for were Ehlers will sign? Which team made the best moves so far in free agency?

NHL Free Agency: key Transactions

Stay tuned to world-today-news.com for the latest updates on NHL free agency and all the offseason moves! Share this article and join the conversation in the comments below.