Kaprizov’s extension talks hinge on term as much as money, with Minnesota balancing a return to playoff contention against cap realities. The Wild can’t afford a repeat of past exits, so they’re weighing a long-term pledge or trading rights if Decembers pass without a deal.

The saga nods to Gaborik’s Wild era as a cautionary tale: timing, health, and fit decide a franchise horizon. Kaprizov wants to win, and Minnesota’s cap space recovery underpins the leverage as McDavid’s market moves loom large in the league.

Nashville’s Luke Evangelista is drifting toward a two- to three-year deal, with a missed camp shading the negotiation for both sides and a possible shift in his early role. Edmonton’s goalie situation remains unsettled; no Kostin re-engagement and no PTOs on the horizon. Carter Hart’s next destination is likely U.S.-based, while Vancouver doubles down on on-ice prep as the season looms.

Columbus and Ottawa linger in rumors, and the Oilers’ goaltending path could reshape rosters across the league. Monitor camp reports, line combos, and power-play time closely for fantasy implications across the landscape.

Columbus Blue Jackets acquire Ivan Fedotov from Philadelphia for a 2026 sixth-round pick, banking on a high-upside netminder nearing an NHL opportunity as he nears free agency after this season. Last year he appeared in 26 NHL games with a 3.15 GAA and .880 save percentage. His elite KHL résumé—2021-22 best goalie honors with CSKA and a Gagarin Cup—underscores ceiling, even as AHL/NHL transitions loom. Philadelphia gains draft capital while CBJ bets on a faster crease upgrade for fantasy value.

Fedotov’s path hinges on training camp and workload, with a one-year window on a two-year deal and imminent UFA status. Monahan’s Masterton win for CBJ adds veteran leadership in a pivot season for goaltending depth. In fantasy, monitor camp performance and potential split decisions to gauge upside in deep leagues.