While Connor McDavid’s potential contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers has dominated headlines this summer, he’s not the only star approaching unrestricted free agency in 2026. Fellow elite talents like Jack Eichel and Kirill Kaprizov are also entering the final years of their deals, and so far, negotiations appear quiet.
Jack Eichel’s Future in Vegas Unclear
Eichel, the Vegas Golden Knights’ top-line center, is eligible to hit the open market next July. To date, there have been no public signs of extension talks with the Golden Knights. According to Daily Faceoff‘s Anthony Di Marco, it’s far from certain Eichel will ink a new deal before free agency opens.
Di Marco raised concerns about Vegas’s cap situation, especially after acquiring Mitch Marner and his $12 million AAV contract. With the cap projected to rise, he speculated Eichel’s next deal could exceed $12.6 million annually.
However, cap space might not be an issue. PuckPedia projects Vegas will have roughly $20.375 million in cap room for the 2026–27 season with 14 players signed. If veteran defenseman Alex Pietrangelo remains on LTIR, that could free up an additional $8.8 million—giving the Golden Knights plenty of flexibility to retain Eichel.
Related News
Kaprizov’s Value Continues to Rise
In Minnesota, Kirill Kaprizov’s contract status is gaining more attention. With RFA center Marco Rossi recently re-signed, many are watching closely to see if the Wild move next to extend their star winger. So far, there’s been little progress reported.
Di Marco believes Kaprizov is on track to become the highest-paid winger in the league and suggested he could reshape the winger market altogether. But will Wild GM Bill Guerin be willing to pay that price? Guerin has shown a tough negotiating stance before—most recently with Rossi—raising questions about how far the team is prepared to go.
Still, the Wild seem committed to keeping their franchise cornerstone. Last October, team owner Craig Leipold stated his desire to re-sign Kaprizov, claiming no other team could offer him more money or a longer contract.
Backlund Hints at Andersson’s Imminent Exit from Calgary
Meanwhile, in Calgary, Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson appears to be on his way out. During the NHL media tour in Europe, Flames captain Mikael Backlund didn’t hold back when asked about his teammate’s future.
“Yeah, he’s getting traded. It’s obvious,” said Backlund. He added that Andersson wants to avoid becoming a distraction, and advised him to focus on playing while the situation plays out.
Trade rumors have surrounded Andersson since June, when contract extension talks with the Flames reportedly broke down. While Backlund acknowledged the situation could change, he seemed resigned to the belief that the 28-year-old blueliner will be dealt before the March deadline.
