Nikolaj Ehlers is at a crucial juncture in his career as the Winnipeg Jets forward approaches free agency without a new contract. With reports suggesting the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes are his top contenders, Ehlers has the potential to command a significant salary, possibly in the eight figures range. His impressive performance last season—24 goals and 39 assists in 69 games—highlights his value, with a total of 225 goals and 295 assists over a decade in the NHL.

This may be Ehlers' final shot at securing a lucrative long-term deal, and he is likely weighing both financial security and a strong team fit. As free agency looms, the anticipation around his decision grows, leaving fans and analysts alike eager to see where he will land.

Nikolaj Ehlers remains a hot topic in NHL free agency, having not signed with any team after two days. The 29-year-old winger, who previously played for the Winnipeg Jets, is considering offers from several teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Washington Capitals. Ehlers’s decision is awaited by many as it could significantly impact the market, particularly with fellow forwards like Brock Boeser and Mikael Granlund recently signing lucrative contracts. The increased salary cap to $95.5 million adds further intrigue to Ehlers's potential deal, as he is expected to command a substantial contract.

As free agency unfolds, other teams are also on the move. The Edmonton Oilers have signed Curtis Lazar and Andrew Mangiapane, while the New Jersey Devils have re-signed Cody Class. Meanwhile, players like Anthony Beauvillier and Jack Roslovic are still waiting for opportunities. General managers are adapting quickly to the shifting landscape of available talent as they look to finalize their rosters for the upcoming season.

The Edmonton Oilers have acquired Andrew Mangiapane, a winger previously with the Washington Capitals, signing him to a two-year contract worth $7.2 million total. Mangiapane, who struggled during the 2024-25 season, finishing with only 28 points, hopes to revive his career in Edmonton. Known for a standout 35-goal performance in 2021-22, the former Calgary Flames sixth-round pick has demonstrated the capability to contribute significantly on offense, with a total of 109 goals across his seven NHL seasons. His move to the Oilers signals a fresh start as they look to enhance their scoring depth.

The Edmonton Oilers have made a notable addition to their roster by signing Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year contract averaging $3.6 million per year. Mangiapane, previously with the Washington Capitals, had a solid season, netting 14 goals and 28 points. His time in Washington was characterized by consistent play, transitioning through the top three lines of a high-scoring team. While Mangiapane's postseason performance was underwhelming, he has potential upside playing alongside the Oilers' offensive stars, hoping to replicate his previous peak of 35 goals with the Calgary Flames in 2021-22.

With Corey Perry's departure from the Oilers to the Kings, Mangiapane may fill the void left in terms of offensive depth. At 29, the veteran forward still has the opportunity to reach new heights in the offensive-minded environment of Edmonton.

Martin Fehervary, a promising 25-year-old defenseman for the Washington Capitals, has signed a lucrative seven-year, $42 million contract extension that will keep him with the team until the 2032-33 season. This deal comes after a season where he recorded personal bests in assists, points, and games played, showcasing his vital role in the Capitals' defense.

Fehervary led the Capitals in shorthanded ice time and was notably valuable with his ability to block shots while contributing to the physical presence required in their back line. Despite a serious injury that sidelined him during the playoffs, Capitals GM Chris Patrick expressed excitement over securing Fehervary long-term, highlighting his competitiveness and conditioning as key attributes for the team's future.