As the NHL offseason intensifies, several key storylines are developing, encompassing contract extensions, potential trades, and free agency buzz. Here's a breakdown of the latest news surrounding Thatcher Demko, the Edmonton Oilers, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the broader free agency landscape.
Demko Extension Imminent in Vancouver
The Vancouver Canucks and their star goaltender, Thatcher Demko, are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a contract extension. While the exact figures and structure are still being worked out, there's agreement on the term of the deal. Demko, who will turn 30 in December, is eligible to sign an extension as of July 1st.
Demko is entering the final season of his five-year, $25 million contract. Despite an injury-hampered 2024-25 season where he played only 23 games, the Canucks clearly see him as their long-term solution in net. In the 2023-24 season, Demko was a Vezina Trophy finalist, recording a .918 save percentage and 35 wins in 51 games.
Oilers' Offseason Moves
The Edmonton Oilers have been active in the lead-up to free agency. They've re-signed forward Kasperi Kapanen to a one-year, $1.3 million contract. The Oilers also re-signed forward Noah Philp to a one-year contract for $775,000.
A key focus for the Oilers is re-signing defenseman Evan Bouchard, a restricted free agent. While he didn't match his impressive 2023-24 numbers, Bouchard still had a strong season, finishing fifth among NHL defensemen with 67 points. His playoff performance was also notable, with 23 points in 22 games. Securing Bouchard is a priority for the Oilers, and a long-term contract could approach $10 million. After a busy week that included Evander Kane being traded to Vancouver and re-signing Trent Frederic to a surprising eight-year contract, the Oilers have a little over $12 million in cap space.
Maple Leafs' Marner Situation and Potential Replacements
The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing uncertainty regarding the future of Mitch Marner. With speculation pointing towards his departure, possibly to the Vegas Golden Knights, the Leafs are exploring potential replacements. Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser has emerged as a potential target.
The Maple Leafs have, however, secured Matthew Knies with a six-year, $46.5 million contract extension. The deal carries an average annual value of $7.75 million. Knies is coming off a 29-goal, 58-point season. The Leafs have also locked in forward John Tavares with a restructured deal that frees up cap space.
There's also speculation about the Leafs potentially targeting Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri, who has one year remaining on his contract at $49 million.
NHL Free Agency Landscape
The NHL free agency period opens on Tuesday. The salary cap is increasing by $7.5 million to $95.5 million for next season, giving teams more flexibility. This is the largest season-to-season jump since the cap was implemented in 2005.
Mitch Marner is considered the top forward available if he doesn't sign with the Leafs before free agency begins. Other notable potential unrestricted free agent forwards include Brad Marchand, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Brock Boeser. On defense, Aaron Ekblad, Vladislav Gavrikov, and Ivan Provorov could also be available. Several restricted free agents could receive offer sheets, including Evan Bouchard (Oilers) and Matthew Knies (Maple Leafs).
