What happened: Ryan O'Reilly, Zach Whitecloud, Jared McCann, Gabriel Vilardi and Alexis Lafreniere could enter the trade market if their clubs start slowly. Each offers veteran production, a manageable cap hit or long-term team control.
Why it matters: The NHL's $100 million salary cap could give potential buyers more flexibility for in-season deals. Early sellers could pursue picks and prospects before the playoff race takes shape.
By the numbers: Whitecloud carries a $2.75 million annual cap hit for two more seasons, McCann is at $5 million and Vilardi is signed through 2031 at $7.5 million annually. Vilardi scored 30 goals in 2025-26, while Lafreniere has never reached 60 points in a season. O'Reilly's club has gone 22-30-4 during the first month over the past six seasons.
What to watch: The opening weeks will show which clubs fall behind and whether trade discussions begin before Halloween.