In the NHL, offer sheets are a rare but intriguing strategy that can significantly impact the dynamics of a team's roster. These sheets, which allow a team to offer a restricted free agent (RFA) a contract with a higher average annual value (AAV) than their current team, are often used to poach players from other organizations. While they can be risky and damaging to relationships between general managers (GMs), they can also be a powerful tool for teams looking to acquire top talent. The 2026 NHL offseason promises to be an exciting time for offer sheets, with several players poised to become candidates for these lucrative deals. Here's a breakdown of some of the most intriguing offer sheet candidates, along with personal commentary and analysis.
Zachary Bolduc, RW, Montreal Canadiens
Bolduc showed promise as a two-way player in his rookie season with the Blues, but his role with the Canadiens has been limited. With only $10.98 million in cap space and a need for a No. 2 center, the Canadiens could be vulnerable to an offer sheet for Bolduc. His established upside, potential for increased playing time, and modest 2025-26 campaign make him an attractive target for another team.
Mavrik Bourque, RW, Dallas Stars
Dallas faces a challenge with Robertson's contract, and Bourque could be a bridge deal option. With $10.14 million in cap space, the Stars might struggle to afford Robertson's next AAV. Bourque's recent success in the AHL and his potential as a scoring forward make him a viable offer sheet candidate, especially if Dallas can't afford Robertson's next contract.
Pavel Dorofeyev, RW, Vegas Golden Knights
Dorofeyev's impressive performance in the past two seasons has elevated him to the higher end of the offer sheet compensation scale. With 12 goals in the postseason, he's a clear target for rival teams willing to eat the compensation cost. The Golden Knights, with limited cap space and a need to retain top players, could be ripe for an offer sheet, making Dorofeyev a key player to watch.
Jack Drury, C, Colorado Avalanche
Drury's defensive prowess and bottom-six role make him an attractive candidate for an offer sheet. With a cap space crunch and a need for draft picks and cap space, the Avalanche might be forced to consider an offer sheet if another team values Drury higher than the Avs.
Peyton Krebs, LW, Buffalo Sabres
Krebs, a post-hype breakout player, has established himself as a priority for the Sabres. With limited cap space and a need to re-sign Tuch, Krebs could be an offer sheet candidate if another team values him highly. His first-round pedigree and potential for growth make him an intriguing option.
Pavel Mintyukov & Olen Zellweger, D, Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks have a busy offseason, with several UFA players to re-sign. Mintyukov and Zellweger, both with immense potential as puck-movers, could be offer sheet targets. GM Pat Verbeek's focus on other free agents might make him less attentive to these players, providing an opportunity for another team to acquire them.
Cole Perfetti, RW, Winnipeg Jets
Perfetti is a gifted playmaker but hasn't yet solidified a top-six role. The Jets have the cap space to extend him, but they might need to pursue high-profile additions to appease their core. An offer sheet scenario could arise if another team projects a long-awaited breakout for Perfetti, similar to the Broberg situation.
Mackie Samoskevich, RW, Florida Panthers
Samoskevich, a talented 23-year-old, has shown potential with the Panthers. With a focus on dominating in the present, the Panthers might consider an offer sheet to retain him. His scoring-line potential and sweet-spot AAV could make him a target for another team looking to upgrade their roster.
These offer sheet candidates showcase the potential for significant roster moves in the 2026 NHL offseason. While offer sheets are rare, they can be a powerful tool for teams looking to acquire top talent, and these players could be key to shaping the league's future.
