What happened: Teams around the league are working through a busy offseason stretch, with trade discussions, restricted free agent negotiations and contract extensions all moving in parallel. The activity spans cap-strapped clubs looking to move money and rebuilding teams working to lock up young talent before arbitration dates arrive.
Why it matters: How front offices navigate the RFA market and cap constraints now will shape rosters heading into the 2026-27 season, with arbitration deadlines forcing resolution on deals that have dragged into midsummer. Clubs still carrying cap pressure have limited runway left before training camps open.
By the numbers: Nine restricted free agents have signed new contracts this offseason, leaving six still facing arbitration hearings.
What to watch: Watch for movement on the remaining arbitration cases and any trades teams make to create cap space before camps convene.