NHL Insider Darren Dreger Reveals Big Hint Where Nikolaj Ehlers Could Sign Next

That need for privacy might make his decision-making more complicated, particularly if the strongest offerers tend to be the most prominent markets.

Dreger added that if Ehlers is seeking something more private than Winnipeg, which is already one of the NHL's smallest markets, it might be tough to find a team that both qualifies on that basis and actively pursues him.

'If he's looking for more privacy than what he might have in Winnipeg, then that might be a challenge in terms of many that dip their toe into the market,' Dreger said. 'But he'll have a strong audience if he gets to July 1st.'

Ehlers' request for a quieter market/city puts Ottawa in contention with Winnipeg

He has been linked to the Ottawa Senators, which has a similar market to that of Winnipeg. That could possibly add more fuel to those rumors.

Ehlers, who will be 29 in August, is coming off a wonderful season where he produced 63 points in 69 games and seven points in eight playoff games.

His two-way presence and offensive consistency make him one of the top wingers on the market this summer. Should he make it to the open market, Ehlers will have a huge contract coming his way.

Daily Faceoff projects that he'll sign a six-year, $48.6 million contract, with an $8.1 million annual average value. That would place him among the highest free agent gems of the class.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman also labeled him one of the best available forwards aside from Toronto Maple Leafs phenom Mitch Marner, should Marner also become available.

Having just experienced a productive season and possessing a clear vision for where he intends to go, Ehlers' destiny will be one of the more interesting storylines to watch as free agency draws near.