Kaprizov’s contract talks with the Wild have turned tense as his agent pushes for more while Minnesota remains confident they can sign him. Teams are calling, but the Wild aren’t entertaining trades as they push to finalize an extension; Kaprizov’s media day could offer clues even if he stays tight-lipped.

Meanwhile, Winnipeg prioritizes Kyle Connor’s extension as he enters the final year of a near 50 million deal, with open market lines including Buffalo underscoring the cap-pressure backdrop. The saga highlights a summer of leverage, timing, and risk for fantasy managers watching line combos and PP roles.

Florida Panthers eye a third straight Cup, but health and cap pressures loom as Tkachuk recovers and depth is tested. The league-wide preview hinges on goaltending certainty, growth from young cores, and high-stakes off-season moves—from Swayman’s bid to reclaim No.1 in Boston to Hughes’ health in New Jersey and Marner’s Vegas exit in Toronto.

Beyond those headline questions, the piece assesses defensive pivots in Vegas, depth shifts in Minnesota with Kaprizov’s contract talk, and young guns like Demidov in Montreal and Celebrini in San Jose eyeing breakout years. ESPN also maps out 100 exclusive games and a rich out-of-market package as fans plot fantasy rosters.