The NHL is buzzing with anticipation as the free-agent period is set to kick off at noon ET on July 1. This year’s pool of unrestricted free agents (UFAs) may be shallow, having seen most top talent re-signed by their respective teams earlier this season. However, with next summer's free-agent market promising a deeper talent pool, attention is shifting towards the upcoming trade market, which could see a flurry of activity if teams look to leverage their current roster assets before the salary cap rises significantly.
The Rising Salary Cap and Its Implications
The NHL's salary cap is projected to rise from $95.5 million to $104 million by the 2026-27 season. This rise means that many teams will be more financially flexible, potentially allowing them to make key acquisitions through trades. Given the shallow free-agent market this summer, teams might prefer to pursue player trades rather than risk losing top players to free agency next summer.
One strategy could involve trading away players who are at risk of not re-signing with their teams, especially those who have only a year left on their contracts. It makes more sense for teams to acquire assets now rather than wait until those players become rental players later. With several teams looking for enhancements to their lineups, here’s a look at five potential trade candidates heading into this summer's free agency period.
Jordan Binnington: St. Louis Blues
After months of trade rumors and a challenging season for the St. Louis Blues, starting goaltender Jordan Binnington could be the subject of newfound interest. Despite inconsistent performances and a complicated trade market, Binnington shone for Canada during the 2026 Winter Olympics, showcasing his skills. The 32-year-old netminder has a year left on his contract with a cap hit of $6 million and possesses a 10-team trade list.
The Blues might choose to move forward with Binnington alongside young goalie Joel Hofer. If they make strides in the upcoming season, a short-term extension for Binnington could be considered. However, if the Blues find themselves again on the periphery of the playoffs, they may be compelled to entertain trade offers, particularly if other teams like the Carolina Hurricanes or Florida Panthers show interest in acquiring Binnington.
Bowen Byram: Buffalo Sabres
After joining the Buffalo Sabres from the Colorado Avalanche, Bowen Byram quickly made a name for himself as a crucial player on the blue line. The 24-year-old defenseman, who signed a two-year deal with an annual average value of $6.3 million, played a pivotal role in ending Buffalo's long playoff drought this season. Despite this success, speculation remains regarding Byram's future in Buffalo.
As Byram approaches his prime, his impressive 48-point season raises the possibility of him seeking a lucrative long-term extension. Should this happen, the Sabres may explore trading him to acquire additional depth on their forward lines rather than risk losing him for nothing.
Blake Coleman: Calgary Flames
In the midst of a significant roster overhaul, the Calgary Flames have seen Blake Coleman consistently featured in trade discussions. With a year remaining on his six-year contract, which carries a salary cap hit of $4.9 million, Coleman possesses a 10-team approved trade list.
The veteran winger's blend of experience and playstyle makes him an attractive asset for teams looking to bolster their rosters. As the Flames are expected to be sellers this offseason, Coleman is increasingly perceived as a prime trade candidate. Even if he doesn’t move this summer, he could become a pivotal asset ahead of next year’s trade deadline.
Nico Hischier: New Jersey Devils
Having established himself as a leader and key player for the New Jersey Devils, captain Nico Hischier faces an uncertain future as the team undergoes management changes. With one year left on his contract, carrying a cap hit of $7.3 million, there is speculation over whether he will seek a contract extension amid the Devils' ongoing struggles to remain competitive.
Rumors have suggested that he may be on the radar of teams like the Minnesota Wild, should the Devils consider trading him to maximize value rather than risk losing him when he hits unrestricted free agency. The new GM could see retention of Hischier as essential for building a stable roster, but the realities of the salary cap may lead to difficult decisions.
Quinn Hughes: Minnesota Wild
Quinn Hughes, acquired from the Vancouver Canucks, rapidly became a cornerstone for the Minnesota Wild. With a year left on his contract and a cap hit of $7.85 million, Hughes' future hinges on his willingness to negotiate a contract extension this summer.
With marquee players like Kirill Kaprizov already taking substantial cap space, the Wild may find it difficult to keep Hughes without making significant sacrifices. If contract negotiations stall, trading Hughes could present the Wild with a lucrative opportunity to remain competitive while gaining significant assets.
Conclusion: A Dynamic Offseason Ahead
The upcoming free agency period and potential trades in the NHL present critical opportunities for teams looking to reshape their rosters. With the salary cap rising, teams may be more inclined to make bold moves. Players like Binnington, Byram, Coleman, Hischier, and Hughes could alter the landscape of their franchises, leading to an engaging and dynamic offseason for NHL fans.
