Table of Contents
After an intense Stanley Cup Final series, the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers now turn their attention to a critical offseason. With free agency opening on July 1 and the NHL Draft just days away, both teams face major contract decisions that could reshape their rosters heading into the 2025–26 season.
🐾 Florida Panthers: Can They Run It Back?
The Panthers reached the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight year, and while they fell just short, they proved they’re built for deep playoff runs. However, maintaining that core will take some careful cap management.
Key Pending Free Agents:
Sam Reinhart (UFA) – Coming off a career-best season with over 50 goals, Reinhart is due a massive payday. Florida must decide whether they can afford to keep him or risk losing his offensive firepower.
Brandon Montour (UFA) – A top-pairing defenseman with offensive upside, Montour will command attention on the open market.
Ryan Lomberg, Kevin Stenlund (UFA) – Depth pieces that played important roles, but could be replaced internally if cap space is tight.
Potential Cap Moves:
GM Bill Zito may need to explore trades or buyouts to retain his stars. A priority will be ensuring goalie Sergei Bobrovsky continues his elite form while managing his hefty contract, which carries a $10 million AAV through 2026.
🛢️ Edmonton Oilers: Cup Window Is Still Open
For the Oilers, led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Stanley Cup Final appearance solidified their status as true contenders. Now, management must navigate a tricky offseason to keep the core together.
Key Pending Free Agents:
Leon Draisaitl (Entering final year) – Extension talks are expected to begin soon. Edmonton can’t afford to let their second-best player get to free agency in 2026.
Evan Bouchard (RFA in 2026) – A breakout postseason means the Oilers may want to get ahead with an early extension.
Adam Henrique, Corey Perry (UFA) – Veterans on expiring deals, both of whom played meaningful playoff minutes.
Warren Foegele, Vincent Desharnais (UFA) – Depth players who may test the market depending on offers.
Front Office Priorities:
The Oilers must also evaluate goalie Stuart Skinner and whether to bring in competition in the crease. The blue line remains a key area for improvement, especially with questions around long-term depth.
🔁 Trades and Draft Implications
Both teams are expected to be active around the NHL Draft. The Panthers could move a mid-round pick or prospect to clear cap space, while the Oilers may explore trading a forward to bolster their defensive corps.
📅 Key Offseason Dates:
June 28–29 – NHL Draft
July 1 – Free agency opens
Mid-July – Arbitration period begins for eligible RFAs
📊 Bottom Line
Panthers must prioritize retaining stars like Sam Reinhart and Brandon Montour while balancing the books.
Oilers need to lock up Leon Draisaitl long-term and tweak the supporting cast to stay Cup-competitive.
Both franchises are in win-now mode, and the coming weeks will determine whether they stay at the top or take a step back.
