The upcoming 2025 NHL unrestricted free agent class is headlined by elite names, notably Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who is projected to command a hefty contract surpassing $13 million per season. His teammate, John Tavares, also emerges as a significant player in free agency but may need to settle for a reduced salary to remain with the team. The forward market includes other notable names like Matt Duchene and Patrick Kane, although this year's class lacks the depth seen in previous years.

Additionally, the defense market features Aaron Ekblad leading as a top pairing blueliner, alongside Vladislav Gavrikov and Ivan Provorov. However, the absence of franchise-altering defensemen is evident, with most players being solid middle-pairing options. Goaltending, meanwhile, appears to be the most limited position, with Jake Allen being the standout choice. The rising salary cap, now at $95.5 million, offers teams the flexibility to pursue roster upgrades despite the talent drop-off beyond the top 15-20 names in free agency.

Jacob Markstrom enters the final year of his contract with the New Jersey Devils and is open to extending his stay. His future may be significantly influenced by Jake Allen's potential departure in free agency. Meanwhile, Nico Daws, who has a year left on his deal, showcased considerable resilience, arguably outshining Markstrom and Allen in the latter part of the season. The Devils need to clarify their goaltending situation as Markstrom approaches 36.

In Tampa Bay, the Lightning is looking to regroup after another disappointing playoff exit. Coach Jon Cooper, expected to receive an extension, faces a crucial offseason. Key players like Yanni Gourde and Ryan McDonagh are free agents, and the Lightning may consider trading Isaac Howard's rights. Boston's Don Sweeney is also on a mission, seeking a new coach, a high draft pick, and potential trades to retool the roster.

The Carolina Hurricanes are facing significant injury concerns heading into their next game. Goaltender Frederik Andersen was absent from the morning skate, with coach Rod Brind'Amour stating he is day-to-day. Spencer Martin took his place on the ice. Additionally, forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi is nursing a cut above his eye from a previous match. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars report that Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson are both in stable condition regarding their injuries.

In other news, Marcus Johansson returned from a lower-body injury for the Minnesota Wild, while Filip Gustavsson missed the third period of his last game due to an illness. The New Jersey Devils have confirmed Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon will miss the series. The St. Louis Blues' Tyler Tucker is also day-to-day after an injury, and Tampa Bay Lightning's Brandon Hagel will not play in their upcoming game. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets are hopeful for Nikolaj Ehlers' return soon, although he is still considered week-to-week.

Auston Matthews showcased his skills with a three-point period, tying him for third in franchise history for such performances, as the Toronto Maple Leafs secured a vital win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. The win kept them close to the Atlantic Division-leading Florida Panthers. Jake Guentzel's 15th power-play goal of the season bolstered the Lightning, currently maintaining second place in the division.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils' Jake Allen delivered an impressive 45-save performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets, denying them crucial points in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race. This was a tightly contested day in the NHL, with four out of five games decided by one or two goals. As the league progresses, the playoff race intensifies, particularly in the Eastern Conference where multiple teams vie for the final Wild Card spots.

The Montreal Canadiens are facing a critical decision on how to utilize their last salary retention slot. With players like Jake Allen and Jeff Petry still on the books, the team aims to maximize their return on potential trades involving Joel Armia, David Savard, and Christian Dvorak. There’s speculation around whether the Canadiens will retain salary for Armia's $3.4 million or Savard’s $3.5 million to entice suitors, especially given Dvorak’s $4.45 million cap hit as a UFA.

Dvorak, 29, has been suggested as a possible trade candidate, but his performance and financial considerations make it a delicate situation. Pagnotta believes Dvorak might remain with the Canadiens due to the balance of his production versus salary. Meanwhile, players like Armia and Savard could be more attractive to teams looking to bolster their rosters before the deadline.