Introduction

The 2025-26 NHL season is off to an exciting start, and standout player Martin Necas is making waves with the Colorado Avalanche. With nine goals and 17 points in just 13 games, Necas has established himself as a vital component of the team's success.

Contract Developments

Last season, the Avalanche faced a similar situation with Mikko Rantanen, opting to trade him and secure Necas in a blockbuster deal. This year, however, Necas decided not to test the free agency waters, instead agreeing to an impressive eight-year contract extension worth an average annual value of $11.5 million. This move is part of a larger trend in the NHL, as several stars have chosen to extend their contracts rather than enter the unpredictable free agency market.

Notably, Kirill Kaprizov set the tone early this preseason with a record-breaking eight-year contract averaging $17 million per year, while Connor McDavid followed suit with a two-year bridge deal worth $12.5 million AAV. Other significant contracts include Jack Eichel's eight-year, $13.5 million AAV deal and Kyle Connor’s eight-year extension valued at $12 million AAV.

Implications of the New CBA

As the NHL prepares for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) set to take effect next year, these contracts are revealing changing dynamics across the league. Despite the growing salary cap, players are prioritizing long-term security over waiting for free agency. The upcoming CBA will eliminate eight-year contracts, limiting re-signing players to a maximum of seven years and new team signings to six years.

This shift raises concerns about the future of free agency, which is expected to slow down considerably. Teams like the Avalanche are opting for in-house negotiations to avoid the risks of losing talent or the chaotic nature of free agency, while the contract landscape continues to evolve.

Looking Forward

Despite the current trend of extensions, teams will still need to address unmet needs. The Toronto Maple Leafs, for example, may need to make several strategic moves to fill gaps in their roster. The Minnesota Wild, fueled by the financial ramifications of Kaprizov’s extension, will also likely explore trade options to enhance their lineup.

While this year's free agency may appear stagnant, history shows these cycles can change. As players adapt to the new CBA restrictions, we could see a revitalization of player movement in the coming seasons. Until then, fans can expect some intriguing trades as teams gear up for playoff contention.