What happened: Nine of 15 restricted free agents with arbitration cases across the NHL have agreed to new contracts, according to PuckPedia. Six RFAs remain unsigned with arbitration hearings still pending this offseason.

Why it matters: Arbitration deadlines typically push teams and players toward settlement rather than a hearing, since either side can end up with terms it didn't want. The six outstanding cases will factor into those clubs' salary-cap planning ahead of the 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Watch for settlements or scheduled hearings on the remaining six arbitration cases as teams finalize 2026-27 rosters.