Connor McDavid isn’t rattled by the possibility of a contract extension not being in place when the Oilers' season opens. He stresses professionalism and maturity within the group, signaling focus on winning now rather than leverage concerns. The rumor mill suggests a pre-season extension is uncertain, with McDavid weighing the team’s long-term staying power as much as term length. Ekholm’s view on a future Edmonton stay and Kuznetsov’s looming decision frame a broader cap-health conversation for top clubs. Carey Price remains a focal point for Montreal as contract optics loom.

Ekholm, in a final-year context, indicated he’s open to talks and values security for his family, while Kuznetsov eyes two possible destinations and signings that fit budgets, per the rumor circuit. The Canadiens’ cap situation complicates any Price maneuver, and not moving his contract would constrict Montreal’s options. Flames and Maple Leafs rumors also surface in surrounding chatter, underscoring a league-wide tension between immediate competitiveness and long-term financial health.

The NHL offseason has been unusually quiet, with scarce big money moves and limited chatter. That sets up a potentially active September as teams chase late signings that could suddenly reshape fantasy rosters and cap math.

Kirill Kaprizov’s rumored eight year extension at roughly 15–16 million per season would crown the market, and Leipold’s note that they’re not far off hints at a rapid next step after Kirill’s arrival. McDavid and Robertson also figure in roundups, underscoring a market primed for dramatic September moves.

Florida sits as the Cup betting favorite at roughly +600, with Carolina and Colorado nipping at their heels. Edmonton, Vegas, and Dallas present strong cases, while most markets stay chalky heading into the season. For fantasy players, Florida's top line and Edmonton's dynamic duo anchor early projections, with Colorado and Dallas providing solid depth upside in later rounds.