Where will Mitch Marner go, and other NHL off-season questions

The NHL offseason is in full swing as teams prepare for the upcoming free agency period, the draft, and potential trades. With the Florida Panthers still basking in their Stanley Cup victory, front offices around the league are gearing up for a busy few weeks.

Free agency is set to begin on Canada Day, and teams will have some extra cash to spend thanks to a $7.5 million increase in the salary cap for next season, bringing it to $95.5 million. The potential for the salary cap to rise to $113.5 million by 2027-28 is also on the horizon, pending a new collective bargaining agreement.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have some big decisions to make when it comes to their pending unrestricted free agents. Mitch Marner, who finished fifth in scoring this season with 102 points, is set to hit the open market. The 28-year-old has been a key player for the Leafs, but there are rumblings of discontent among fans after another disappointing playoff exit.

Another Maple Leafs star, John Tavares, could also be on the move as the team looks to shake things up following another playoff disappointment. The Florida Panthers, fresh off their Stanley Cup win, are also facing decisions with key players like Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand, and Aaron Ekblad set to become free agents.

In addition to Marner, other impact players set to hit free agency include Winnipeg’s Nikolaj Ehlers and Vancouver’s Brock Boeser. The Edmonton Oilers will also be keeping a close eye on July 1 as Connor McDavid becomes eligible for a contract extension.

Trades have already been happening around the league, with notable names like Chris Kreider, Mason Marchment, and Trevor Zegras changing teams. Players like Rasmus Andersson, John Gibson, and Thatcher Demko could also be on the move as teams look to bolster their rosters.

The NHL draft is set to take place in Los Angeles, with the New York Islanders holding the top pick. They are expected to select defenceman Matthew Schaefer, the top-rated prospect despite a season-ending injury. Other top prospects include Michael Misa and Anton Frondell, who have impressed scouts with their play.

As the offseason continues to unfold, teams will be looking to make moves to improve their rosters and position themselves for a successful 2025-26 season. Stay tuned for more updates as the NHL offseason heats up.