Nikolaj Ehlers Still Unsigned As NHL Waits

Nikolaj Ehlers Still Unsigned As NHL Waits \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ NHL free agency is more than a day old, and top forward Nikolaj Ehlers remains unsigned. The 29-year-old winger is reportedly weighing offers from multiple contenders, including Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Washington. His decision could shift the market for remaining free agents this offseason.

Quick Looks

• Nikolaj Ehlers still unsigned 30+ hours into free agency
• Hurricanes, Lightning, and Capitals rumored to be top suitors
• Ehlers expected to command a high-value contract
• Edmonton signs Curtis Lazar, replacing Connor Brown, Corey Perry
• Islanders land KHL standout Maxim Shabanov
• Rangers, Penguins, Devils, Blues, Red Wings make key depth signings
• Ehlers’ decision likely holding up market for mid-tier forwards
• Bowen Byram’s future with Sabres remains uncertain

Deep Look

As NHL free agency passes the 30-hour mark, one major name remains on the board: Nikolaj Ehlers. The 29-year-old winger, long regarded as one of the most skilled and versatile forwards in the league, is yet to sign a new contract. His deliberate approach is notable, particularly in a market that saw a flurry of early activity.

Ehlers’ decision carries significant weight this offseason. The Danish forward, who spent the first nine years of his career with the Winnipeg Jets, entered free agency as one of the most sought-after players available. Rather than sign quickly on July 1, Ehlers has taken a patient approach, weighing offers and gauging team fit.

Among the frontrunners are the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Washington Capitals, according to multiple sources. All three are playoff-contending teams that could offer Ehlers a prominent role and the opportunity to compete deep into the postseason.

“We’ve had talks with his agent,” Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky confirmed on Tuesday. “He’s obviously a very popular person right now, and we’re waiting to see where that goes.”

Ehlers is expected to secure one of the biggest contracts among free agents switching teams this offseason. With the NHL salary cap jumping to $95.5 million for the 2025–26 season—a record increase—teams have more spending power, and there’s a noticeable lack of top-tier forward talent on the open market.

The recent deals of comparable wingers are sure to influence negotiations. Brock Boeser re-signed with Vancouver for over $50 million, and Anaheim awarded Mikael Granlund $7 million per year. Given Ehlers’ productivity and age, he may command a similar or greater salary.

Over his nine seasons in Winnipeg, Ehlers posted 201 goals and 457 points in 642 games. Known for his speed, creativity, and scoring touch, he has consistently produced even while dealing with injuries and fluctuating roles. His two-way play and experience make him a prime target for contending franchises.

As Ehlers remains unsigned, the ripple effect is being felt across the league. Several second-tier free agents—such as Anthony Beauvillier, Jeff Skinner, and Jack Roslovic—are reportedly waiting for Ehlers’ decision before finalizing their own contracts. For many teams, these players represent “Plan B” options.

Defensemen Dmitry Orlov, Brent Burns, and Matt Grzelcyk, as well as goalies Ilya Samsonov and Alexandar Georgiev, also remain unsigned, giving teams flexibility as they adjust post-Ehlers.

Elsewhere in free agency activity:

Edmonton Oilers, fresh off back-to-back Western Conference championships, added Curtis Lazar on Wednesday for the league minimum ($775,000). This move comes a day after signing Andrew Mangiapane and addresses roster spots vacated by Connor Brown and Corey Perry. GM Stan Bowman emphasized the importance of injecting new energy. “They weren’t here last year when we made the final, so I think they’re hungry to get that far,” Bowman said.

New York Islanders made headlines by signing KHL standout Maxim Shabanov, one of the top players from Europe now making the leap to the NHL.

New York Rangers added depth by signing forward Taylor Raddysh to a two-year, $3 million deal, while New Jersey Devils retained Cody Class for $5 million over two years.

Pittsburgh Penguins made two additions—signing Anthony Mantha for $2.5 million and defenseman Alexander Alexeyev for $775,000.

St. Louis Blues landed Pius Suter on a two-year, $8.25 million contract, and Detroit Red Wings bolstered their forward group with Mason Appleton at $4.8 million over two years.

On the waiver wire, St. Louis placed veteran defenseman Nick Leddy on waivers. He has one year remaining on a deal that carries a $4 million cap hit, and it’s unclear whether he’ll be claimed or bought out.

Meanwhile, a subplot is unfolding in Buffalo, where 24-year-old RFA defenseman Bowen Byram remains unsigned. Sabres GM Kevyn Adams said the team would match any offer sheet aimed at poaching Byram, but he also left the door open to a potential trade.

“If there’s a deal out there that makes sense for us and improves our roster, we’re open to it,” Adams said. “But if there’s not, we’re not looking to move him out.”

With Ehlers still holding court over free agency’s second day, teams across the league remain in a holding pattern. His eventual destination could shift the power balance for 2025–26—and reshape how teams fill their remaining roster holes.

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