NHL Rumors: Jarry Move, Red Wings Talk, and Salary Cap Update

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Edmonton Oilers are weighing whether to stick with a struggling goaltender, the Detroit Red Wings could be gearing up for a bold offseason, and the Calgary Flames are evaluating how aggressive they want to get while balancing their short- and long-term plans. Finally, the NHL also released the salary cap projections for next season, including the floor and the ceiling.

Oilers Likely to Stick With Jarry, Focus on Roster Tweaks

Despite a rocky start in Edmonton, goaltender Tristan Jarry may be getting another opportunity with the Oilers. Reports, including one from Bob Stauffer during an appearance on the 100% Hockey show, suggest the organization is hesitant to trade assets to move his $5.375 million cap hit, instead betting on a rebound season.

David Pagnotta wondered instead if the Oilers would be open to sending Jarry down to the AHL. The move would free up $1.225 million, rather than buying him out.

Management still has flexibility, with roughly $16.5 million in projected cap space, but they also have to make decisions on pending free agents like Connor Ingram, Jason Dickinson, and Connor Murphy.

The Oilers are also expected to address their bottom six, find a reliable third-line center, add a top-six winger, and improve their rush defense. Whether Jarry rebounds could ultimately determine how far this roster can go next season.

Red Wings To Make Bold Move This Summer?

All eyes are on Steve Yzerman and the direction of the Red Wings this offseason. After another disappointing finish, questions are growing about whether Detroit is ready to take a significant step forward.

According to Elliotte Friedman, Yzerman has explored big moves in the past but has yet to take a really big swing. He tried on Quinn Hughes, but when a long-term contract wasn’t a certainty, he dropped out of the running.

A lack of real improvement has led to frustration within the organization. In his press conference, Yzerman teased a significant change in players, and many believe this will be the summer he no longer stays patient. Will he finally break from his usual approach and make a franchise-altering move?

Flames Weigh Future of Core Veterans

The Flames enter the offseason with nearly $19 million in cap space and a stockpile of draft picks, giving them flexibility to reshape their roster. However, they’re facing some tough decisions, according to Ryan S. Clarke and Kristen Shelton of ESPN.

Forward Jonathan Huberdeau remains a focal point of trade talk after inconsistent production relative to his $10.5 million cap hit. Meanwhile, players like Blake Coleman, Morgan Frost, and Ryan Strome are entering the final year of their deals.

Calgary could consider moving one or more of these pieces in exchange for future assets. With multiple draft picks already in hand, the Flames are well-positioned to reshape their roster if they choose to get aggressive with their rebuild.

NHL Salary Cap Set to Rise for 2026-27 Season

The NHL and NHLPA have officially announced the salary cap framework for the 2026-27 season, with the upper limit set at $104 million. The rising cap ceiling could play a significant role in how teams approach this offseason.

The team with the most cap space will be the Pittsburgh Penguins at $45 million, making the hesitancy to re-sign Evgeni Malkin even more confusing. The San Jose Sharks are second with $41 million. They select No. 2 overall this summer and if they pick a player who can jump right in, then add a free agent or two to Macklin Celebrini and company, they could make a big jump in the standings.

Anaheim, Chicago, and Columbus all have $40 million.