The Calgary Flames are reportedly considering a bridge deal for Connor Zary, a pending restricted free agent (RFA) who recorded 27 points in 54 games last season, despite battling injuries. A potential three-year contract around $3 million could be in the works, similar to Alex Newhook's deal with the Montreal Canadiens. The Flames also need to address their other RFAs, Kevin Bahl and Morgan Frost, and may need to shift their strategies.

Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators face a challenging situation regarding their forfeited draft pick stemming from the Evgenii Dadonov trade mishap. They could either forfeit their 2025 or 2026 first-round pick, depending on NHL leniency. With a shortage of assets for offer sheets and a need for scoring support, potential free-agent targets include notable wingers such as Nikolaj Ehlers and Ryan Donato. The Senators are also evaluating whether to retain Claude Giroux, who may require a lucrative contract extension.