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NHL teams eye potential offer sheet targets for 2026 offseason

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 7:53 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

NHL teams eye potential offer sheet targets for 2026 offseason

Summary

With the NHL salary cap increasing, teams are considering restricted free agents as potential offer sheet targets for the upcoming offseason. The last decade has seen only four completed offer sheets, highlighting their rarity in the league. Zach Benson of the Buffalo Sabres is identified as a noteworthy candidate, particularly if Buffalo decides to re-sign Alex Tuch. Benson had a breakout season with 43 points in 65 games and was a strong playoff performer, making him an attractive option for teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins. As teams strategize on player acquisitions, the dynamics of offer sheets will be critical in shaping offseason decisions.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Salary cap is on the rise for the NHL.
•Zach Benson had a 43-point season and nine points in playoffs.
•Pittsburgh Penguins may pursue Benson if Buffalo struggles to re-sign Tuch.
•Only 12 offer sheets have occurred since the salary cap era began.
•Teams are exploring aggressive actions similar to those taken by St. Louis.

Latest Updates

7:53 PMYahoo Sports — Potential 2026 NHL offer sheet candidates

What they're saying

"
The NHL’s salary cap is rising but many teams still find themselves in various degrees of uncomfortableness when it comes to the salary structure. The Pittsburgh Penguins are not one such team. Offer sheets have been a seldom used venture by NHL general managers, there have only been four in the last decade. Montreal signed […]
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Buffalo Sabres Edmonton Oilers Montreal Canadiens Pittsburgh Penguins NHL Hockey