What happened: The leaguewide analysis maps roster vacancies against potential trade pieces entering the 2026-27 season.
Why it matters: The imbalance could increase competition for versatile players and NHL-ready depth. Some openings may instead require internal promotions or training-camp solutions.
By the numbers: The audit identifies 77 roster holes and 16 trade chips, a ratio of about 4.8 needs per movable asset.
What to watch: Training-camp battles and late offseason moves will determine which vacancies remain on opening-night rosters.