Makar and Colorado
The most closely watched item today involves Cale Makar. According to NHL Media, the Avalanche remain confident that a new deal will be reached before the start of the season. Joe Sakic says both sides are still talking and that he has no concern about where things stand. The source also notes that Makar is in the final season of his current contract and could become an unrestricted free agent after 2026-27. Sakic expects an agreement before camp, with the full team, including Makar, in place for opening.
Seattle: the big-picture view
NHL.com then turns to a broader look at the Kraken entering 2026-27. The main idea is that Seattle needs to get back to being a playoff-calibre team over 84 games, without making a major roster overhaul. The piece leans on the development of a young forward group, better comfort in Lane Lambert’s system, the return of Bobby McMann after his late-season addition, and the June trade acquisition of Mackie Samoskevich. It also reminds readers that Seattle missed the playoffs in 2025-26, finished 28th in goals per game, and ranked 31st on the penalty kill.
Kraken: NHL EDGE clues
In another Seattle-related item, NHL.com highlights a few NHL EDGE trends. Bobby McMann stands out for skating speed, Matty Beniers for high-danger goals, and Brandon Montour for certain shot-related metrics. The article presents these as indicators of possible team strengths going forward, without pushing the point further.
Young players and depth
NHL.com also offers a look at the Kraken’s five best prospects, with Chase Reid, Jake O’Brien and Oscar Fisker Molgaard among the names mentioned. The piece focuses on their development and when they might be able to help at the NHL level. In the same vein, Jason Botterill suggests as many as seven or eight forwards aged 23 or under could make the opening roster, while Kaapo Kakko points to Berkly Catton as a player worth watching.
Utah adds Houle
For the Utah Mammoth, the club announced the addition of Florent Houle to its prospect list. The young forward was taken 147th overall in the 2026 draft. The release traces his path in Quebec and then his last two seasons with Sherbrooke in the QMJHL. For 2025-26, Houle posted 41 points in 52 regular-season games, plus 6 points in 7 playoff games.
Oilers note to monitor
Finally, Daily Faceoff reports that Leon Draisaitl said the Oilers are looking to be coached by Mike Babcock this season. The item remains unconfirmed, and the source frames Babcock’s arrival as Edmonton’s attempt to turn things around.
Sources: NHL Media; Utah Mammoth; Daily Faceoff NHL RSS.