As the NHL offseason heats up, several big storylines are unfolding. Top free agent Nikolaj Ehlers is set to make his final decision, trade and offer sheet speculation surrounds Bowen Byram, and Brock Boeser explains why he surprised many by re-signing in Vancouver. Plus, there are whispers of a potential Nazem Kadri trade involving the Toronto Maple Leafs and Calgary Flames.
Nikolaj Ehlers Down to Final Teams in Free Agency
According to TSN’s Chris Johnston, unrestricted free agent Nikolaj Ehlers is expected to announce his new team today. Reports indicate Ehlers is prioritizing a warmer climate and a lower-pressure hockey market, with the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals emerging as top contenders.
Insider Frank Seravalli backed up these claims, while retired analyst Bob McKenzie mentioned that the Avalanche, Ducks, Maple Leafs, and others have also shown interest.
That said, Darren Dreger recently stated on OverDrive that while Toronto GM Brad Treliving has likely made an offer, Ehlers doesn’t seem interested in the spotlight of a Canadian market again, referencing his experience in Winnipeg.
Leafs Miss on Ehlers? Kadri May Be Plan B
If the Maple Leafs lose out on Ehlers, attention could shift to Nazem Kadri. Speculation is growing around a possible reunion with the former Leaf. Although some of the circulating quotes appear questionable, the rumor has gained traction.
It’s unclear how advanced trade discussions are, but with Calgary potentially reshaping its roster, Toronto may be exploring the opportunity to bring Kadri back.
Bowen Byram Offer Sheet & Trade Rumors Intensify
The situation with Bowen Byram is becoming one of the most intriguing stories of the summer. Buffalo Sabres GM Kevyn Adams acknowledged that while the team is open to keeping Byram, they wouldn’t hesitate to trade him if it improves their roster. Adams also confirmed that the Sabres are preparing for the possibility of an offer sheet.
To force Buffalo to walk away, a team would likely need to offer $9 million or more per season. Analyst Nick Kypreos speculated that it could take as much as $10–11 million AAV for the Sabres to consider not matching.
A Byram trade wouldn’t come cheap either—Buffalo would be looking for multiple pieces that fill key holes across their lineup.
Why Brock Boeser Stayed in Vancouver
In a surprising twist, Brock Boeser re-signed with the Vancouver Canucks despite widespread expectations he would leave. Boeser revealed that he was emotionally invested in the process, glued to his phone awaiting news on Tuesday. When the Canucks offered a seven-year contract, he jumped at the chance.
Boeser admitted he never wanted to leave Vancouver but wasn’t sure the feeling was mutual—until the last-minute call.
“Maybe I can get a house there now,” he joked, emphasizing how much he loves the city and the fans. “I definitely didn’t think this was going to happen, but a phone call in the last hour changed everything.”
🔥 Stay Tuned for More NHL Free Agency and Trade News
As the 2025 NHL offseason continues to unfold, all eyes are on where top free agents like Ehlers will land, whether a team will risk an offer sheet for Byram, and if a Kadri-Leafs reunion is more than just smoke.
NHL Rumors, Nikolaj Ehlers Free Agency, Bowen Byram Offer Sheet, Nazem Kadri Trade Rumors, Brock Boeser Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames Trade Talk, NHL Free Agent News, 2025 NHL Offseason, NHL Insider News
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