NHL 2026 Offseason Grades: How Teams Shaped Their Roster
The 2026 NHL offseason saw teams make a mix of signings, trades, and extensions that shaped their rosters for the 2026-27 season. While some franchises strengthened key positions, others faced setbacks or made questionable moves that could impact their playoff chances. The report breaks down each t…
By Felo News Desk · Published
The 2026-27 NHL season kicked off this week, and with it comes a fresh look at how each franchise navigated the offseason. From blockbuster signings to quiet rebuilds, teams made moves that will influence their performance for the next few years. Below is a detailed review of each team's offseason activities, the strengths and weaknesses of their decisions, and what fans can expect heading into the new season.
1. Anaheim Ducks – A Costly Commitment to Cap Space
The Ducks secured all three restricted free agents—Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, and Pavel Mintyukov—without losing any players. However, the offer sheet for Carlsson drained cap space and cost veteran Chris Kreider. The trade of Mason McTavish for two draft picks further weakened the forward depth. While the core remains solid, the summer’s spending may limit future flexibility.
2. Boston Bruins – Incremental Additions, Uncertain Defense
Boston added J.J. Peterka for goal‑scoring and signed young prospects James Hagens and Fraser Minten. The contract extension for Minten could pay dividends, but the team still relies heavily on goaltender Jeremy Swayman to cover defensive lapses. With David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, and Swayman forming a core, the Bruins aim to return to the playoffs, though the ceiling remains modest.
3. Buffalo Sabres – Cap‑Friendly Youth vs. Immediate Needs
The Sabres locked in Zach Benson and Noah Ostlund to cap‑friendly deals, positioning themselves for long‑term growth. Yet, the trade for Bowen Byram and the departure of veteran Alex Tuch left a defensive void. The addition of Olen Zellweger offers a short‑term fix, but the roster still looks slightly worse than the previous season.
4. Calgary Flames – Rebuilding with Draft Picks and Veteran Signings
Calgary traded two first‑round picks for former New Jersey defenseman Simon Nemec, signing him to a $7.25 million per season contract. The Flames also traded Blake Coleman for Jake Middleton and draft capital. With Nemec’s offensive upside and Middleton’s potential, the Flames remain in the early stages of a rebuild, focusing on patience and development.
5. Carolina Hurricanes – Quiet Moves and a Solid Captain Extension
Carolina’s offseason was largely muted, with an attempt to sign veteran defenseman John Carlson falling through. The franchise secured captain Jordan Staal on a one‑year extension, preserving a big‑game presence. With ample cap space and draft assets, the Hurricanes could pursue a blockbuster trade in the future.
6. Chicago Blackhawks – High‑Risk, High‑Reward Draft Pick
Chicago’s biggest move was acquiring defenseman Bowen Byram, who commanded a $12.5 million annual contract and two draft picks. While Byram could become a top‑line defenseman, his price tag and the uncertainty of his role raise questions. The Blackhawks also re‑signed Connor Bedard and reunited with Patrick Kane, adding offensive excitement but not guaranteeing a turnaround.
7. Colorado Avalanche – Depth Losses vs. Veteran Signings
Colorado traded away Valeri Nichushkin, Jack Drury, and Ross Colton, losing depth on both ends. They signed Jaden Schwartz and re‑signed defensemen, including a record deal for Cale Makar. While Makar’s contract is justified, the long‑term impact of losing three key players remains a concern.
8. Columbus Blue Jackets – Late‑Season Signings and Uncertain Future
Columbus struggled to lock in restricted free agent Adam Fantilli until September 24, and the trade for Valeri Nichushkin added a middle‑six forward. However, the uncertainty surrounding Zach Werenski’s future and the lack of long‑term commitments leave the team in a precarious position as the season begins.
9. Dallas Stars – Return of a Key Player Amidst Defensive Gaps
The Stars welcomed back Roope Hintz, a significant addition after his injury‑plagued season. Nonetheless, the team lost Mavrik Bourque to the Nashville Predators and failed to secure a long‑term deal with Jason Robertson. With defensive questions still unanswered, the Stars’ window for a championship remains open but uncertain.
10. Detroit Red Wings – Organizational Turmoil and Unfinished Business
Detroit’s offseason was marred by the trade request from Dylan Larkin, the removal of GM Steve Yzerman, and the lack of a new GM before the season. The team’s depth remains thin, and key free agents like Simon Edvinsson remain unsigned, leaving the franchise in a precarious position.
11. Edmonton Oilers – Controversial Signings and Depth Concerns
Edmonton hired Mike Babcock and signed Alex Formenton, moves that drew criticism from fans and former players. The team’s depth suffered during the season, and the goaltending lineup—Tristan Jarry, Frederik Andersen, and Devon Levi—faces significant challenges. The Oilers’ future hinges on whether these questionable acquisitions can reverse recent decline.
12. Florida Panthers – A Strong Return of a Franchise Player
Florida’s offseason was highlighted by the return of Aleksander Barkov, a key offensive contributor. The Panthers’ roster moves aimed to bolster depth and maintain competitiveness, setting a positive tone for the upcoming season.
Overall, the 2026 NHL offseason showcased a wide range of strategies, from aggressive signings to cautious rebuilds. Teams’ decisions will shape their competitiveness for the next few years, and fans will watch closely to see which moves pay off.
Key facts
- Ducks spent heavily on cap space, losing veteran depth
- Bruins rely on Swayman to cover defensive gaps
- Sabres focus on cap‑friendly youth but face a defensive hole
- Flames rebuild with draft picks and veteran signings
- Hurricanes secure captain Staal and keep cap space for future deals
Why it matters
Understanding how each NHL franchise approached the offseason provides insight into their short‑term competitiveness and long‑term trajectory, helping fans and analysts predict playoff chances and future trade activity.
Frequently asked questions
What does a D grade mean for a team’s offseason?
A D grade indicates that a team made significant financial commitments or key player losses that could limit future flexibility and competitiveness.
Why are cap‑friendly deals important?
Cap‑friendly contracts allow teams to retain young talent while preserving salary cap space for future signings.
Sources
- [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “Final Grades for Every NHL Team's 2026 Offseason”
