NHL free agency opens with notable players and trade talks ahead

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 1, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Jul 1, 2026

NHL free agency opens with notable players and trade talks ahead
Summary

NHL free agency commenced on July 1, 2026, at 11 a.m. Central. Key players available include goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, defenseman John Carlson, and forwards Alex Ovechkin and Patrick Kane. The Nashville Predators enter free agency with $17.8 million in salary cap space, while defenseman Zach Werenski has invoked a no-movement clause to reject a trade to Dallas. Werenski has expressed he will not sign an extension with Columbus, creating speculation about his future with the team.

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By the Numbers
  • NHL free agency began on July 1 with a lackluster player class.
  • Predators have $17.8 million in cap space for signings.
  • Zach Werenski blocked a trade to Dallas and won't extend with Columbus.
  • Other notable trade targets include Jason Robertson and Connor Hellebuyck.
Latest Updates
  • 1:00 PMYahoo SportsNHL free agency live updates: Latest signings, Zach Werenski updates, Predators targets
What they're saying
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When does NHL free agency begin? 2026 NHL free agency begins on Wednesday, with Sergei Bobrovsky among the top available players. Follow the latest free agency news here.

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