NHL Milan tour signals aggressive growth moves: a 2028 World Cup with eight teams, an Olympic cadence anchored around Milan 2026, and a calendar push that could trim training camps and even nudge start dates earlier in future CBAs. High-stakes signings underscore Chicago and Minnesota bets—Frank Nazar’s seven-year pact and Marco Rossi’s three-year, $15M deal—highlighting young talent as the league leans into longer-term returns.

Fantasy takeaway: between global events, longer signings, and potential schedule shifts, expect more roster churn and subtle value shifts early. Nazar, Rossi and a few other signings could reshape lines and PP units, while McDavid-era franchises eye opportunities around extensions and cap dynamics. Stay nimble on sleepers and leverage international duties when projecting workload and availability.

Four players are poised to significantly influence their financial futures heading into the 2025-2026 NHL season. Among them, Patrick Laine, a key figure for the Montreal Canadiens, is expected to have a substantial impact on the team's performance and his own contract status. Last season, he logged 20 goals and 13 assists in 52 games, demonstrating his scoring prowess despite battling injuries. If he can maintain his health and build on his performance, Laine could become a highly sought-after player in the upcoming free agency.

On the Los Angeles Kings, Brandt Clarke is set to emerge as a vital player on the defensive line, potentially taking over from veterans like Drew Doughty. Clarke's offensive skills were highlighted during his junior career, and with the Kings clearing space for him, he could prove his worth and command a significant contract after his entry-level deal. Meanwhile, Thomas Harley of the Dallas Stars has also shown potential, needing to step up his game to secure a lucrative deal as he enters restricted free agency. Lastly, Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild faces uncertainty in his future with the team, but a breakout season could elevate his value significantly.

The Minnesota Wild's offseason activities indicate a proactive approach towards addressing roster weaknesses, particularly through the strategic signings of Vladimir Tarasenko and Nico Sturm. Tarasenko, despite a challenging season with the Detroit Red Wings, is expected to fill a critical scoring void on the second line, while Sturm’s proven faceoff skills and playoff experience aim to stabilize the fourth line. The potential combination of Sturm, Marcus Foligno, and Yakov Trenin could significantly enhance the team's depth and performance.

However, contract negotiations for key players Kirill Kaprizov and Marco Rossi remain contentious, with Kaprizov's desire for a shorter-term deal conflicting with the Wild's interest in a longer commitment. Meanwhile, Rossi's demands for a salary comparable to Matt Boldy's present complications, particularly as he has not garnered other offers in the trade market. The outcome of these negotiations will be pivotal as the Wild seek to solidify their roster for a competitive season ahead.