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Nikolaj Ehlers' Decision Could Spark Frenzy - Expect Trade Dominoes to Fall

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 1:59 PM ET

As soon as Nikolaj Ehlers makes his free agency decision, NHL insider Chris Johnston revealed that some major trades could occur among specific teams.

Nikolaj Ehlers remains unsigned with NHL free agency now entering its third day, as the 29-year-old winger remains the best available player left to sign.

Aiming to make an announcement today, Ehlers' silence has caused clubs to delay trading, and trade discussions have been briefly in the balance.

TSN's Chris Johnston reports that once Ehlers signs, trade activity will likely move in high gear among those teams that come up short with him.

'Once Nikolaj Ehlers makes his free-agent decision, there's a sense it could spur trade activity among the team(s) who fall short in their pursuit of the talented winger.'
- Chris Johnston

The Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs have all been reported to have shown interest. But as for which teams are still in the running, it is unknown.

The Winnipeg Jets are still on the trail for Ehlers but signed Gustav Nyquist to a one-year, $3.25 million deal Wednesday, which was sufficient to propose a potential change.

The Jets have more than enough cap space for Ehlers, but have others to sign, too

The Jets have over $19 million in cap space available, though the majority of that needs to be spent on the RFAs like Gabriel Vilardi and Dylan Samberg.

Murat Ates of 'The Athletic' omitted Ehlers from his initial lineup prediction, where Cole Perfetti might be paired with Nyquist and Jonathan Toews on a retooled second line.

Ehlers, who had 24 goals and 53 points last season, is attracting interest from cap-stretched contenders Tampa Bay and Colorado, but having money to spend is an issue. Carolina GM Eric Tulsky said he has spoken to Ehlers' camp.

Ehlers has 520 career points and a seven-year contract worth $42 million that he has just wrapped up.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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