More than 30 hours into the NHL free agency period, Nikolaj Ehlers remains an unsigned player, creating anticipation as teams continue to evaluate their options. The 29-year-old winger from Denmark, a notable unsigned NHL free agent, has drawn interest from multiple clubs including Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Washington, as he weighs a contract decision that could be a defining transaction of the offseason.
Ehlers Deliberates amid Strong Interest and Rising Salaries
Ehlers, who spent his first nine NHL seasons with Winnipeg, is unusual among top free agents for his decision to delay signing past the opening day of free agency. According to Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky, the discussions with Ehlers’ representatives have been ongoing, but the player is intentionally taking his time to consider all offers before committing. Tulsky described Ehlers as
“a very popular person right now,”
indicating the level of competition for his signature.
While Ehlers and his team watched other prominent forwards secure deals—such as Brock Boeser re-signing in Vancouver for just over $50 million and Mikael Granlund agreeing to a $7 million annual contract with Anaheim—they know the context is changing. With the salary cap rising to an unprecedented $95.5 million, and a limited number of elite free agents available, Ehlers is positioned to potentially secure the most lucrative contract among players switching teams this summer.
Notable Player Movements So Far in Free Agency
Among other signings, veteran defenseman Brent Burns agreed to a contract with the Colorado Avalanche for the coming season. Burns, the 2017 Norris Trophy winner, is at 40 years old and no longer in his peak form, yet he remains valuable due to his experience and time on ice, playing nearly 23 minutes per game during Carolina’s run to the Eastern Conference final. With Colorado, he is expected to take on a third-pairing role as he returns to the Western Conference where he spent his early career.
The Edmonton Oilers also made several moves; after signing Andrew Mangiapane late Tuesday, they picked up Curtis Lazar for the league minimum salary of $775,000. Lazar and Mangiapane fill gaps left by departing wingers Connor Brown and Corey Perry, who both exited following consecutive trips to the final. Oilers general manager Stan Bowman expressed optimism about the new arrivals bringing fresh energy:
“It’s nice to have some new faces to come into your group,”
he said.
“They bring a bit of a different energy. They weren’t here last year when we made the (final) and the year before, so I think they’re hungry to get that far in the playoffs.”
Other signings include the New York Islanders acquiring Maxim Shabanov, a KHL forward coveted by several teams. The New York Rangers secured Taylor Raddysh with a two-year, $3 million deal. New Jersey re-signed Cody Glass for $5 million over two years. Pittsburgh added Anthony Mantha for $2.5 million and Alexander Alexeyev at the league minimum, St. Louis signed Pius Suter to a two-year, $8.25 million contract, and Detroit agreed to a $4.8 million two-year deal with Mason Appleton.
Remaining Free Agents and Ongoing Negotiations
Ehlers’ unsigned status appears to be influencing the market for several other forwards who remain available. Players such as Anthony Beauvillier, Jack Roslovic, and Jeff Skinner could emerge as alternatives for teams if they fail to sign their preferred targets. Additionally, defensemen Dmitry Orlov and Matt Grzelcyk, along with goaltenders Ilya Samsonov and Alexandar Georgiev, remain unsigned, keeping teams attentive.
San Jose Sharks general manager Mike Grier noted the dynamic nature of the initial free agency period.
“Day 1 is always a little bit hectic and crazy,”
he said, acknowledging his team’s multiple moves as well as the need to reach the salary floor.
“We’ll kind of see how things shake out. After (Tuesday night), things will settle down and teams will kind of regroup and see what’s out there and the free agents will do the same.”
Other Roster Moves and Contract Situations to Watch
Beyond signings, St. Louis has placed veteran defenseman Nick Leddy on waivers; he has one year remaining on his contract with a $4 million salary cap hit. Meanwhile, Buffalo Sabres face uncertainty regarding restricted free agent Bowen Byram, 24, whose contract terms and length have yet to be finalized.
Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams stated the team’s position on Byram’s future, emphasizing openness to roster improvement through a trade if it made sense.
“I’ve maintained the same position that if there’s a deal out there that makes sense for us that we think improves our roster, we’re open to it,”
Adams said.
“But if there’s not, we’re not in a situation where we’re looking to move him out or looking to move him for futures and stuff like that.”
What Ehlers’ Decision Could Mean for the NHL Offseason
The unsigned status of Nikolaj Ehlers continues to be a critical factor shaping this phase of NHL free agency. His choice will likely influence subsequent deals for other forwards and could set benchmarks for contract value in this market, especially given the expanded salary cap. Teams remain cautious but engaged, understanding that Ehlers’ potential move could be one of the most significant in this offseason’s landscape.
As the days progress, attention will continue to focus on Ehlers and the ripple effect his contract decision may have on the broader free agent pool and team strategies heading into the new season.