In today’s NHL rumor roundup, we begin with the Vancouver Canucks’ substantial contract extension for Zeev Buium and the long‑term gamble they’ve taken. We then turn to veteran defenseman Chris Tanev, who aims to enter training camp fully healthy, pending clearance from the Toronto Maple Leafs’ medical team.
Finally, with seven unrestricted free agents still unsigned, the question looms: will any of them hold out into training camp and the early season?
Buium Gets Massive 8-Year Deal From Canucks
There had been discussion that the Canucks hoped to secure an agreement with Buium before the September 15 deadline for an eight‑year contract. As defensemen such as Cale Makar and Bowen Byram command larger salaries, the market for blue‑liners continues to climb.
Buium’s deal carries an average annual value of $9.38 million over eight years; although figures may shift, he presently ranks as the league’s 11th‑highest‑paid defenseman for the upcoming season.
Is the contract justified? Not yet, at least. The evolving NHL salary cap, marked by steep year‑over‑year increases, is prompting clubs to sign young talent to long‑term deals that may appear excessive initially but could become more reasonable as the agreement progresses.
Buium, a key component of the Quinn Hughes trade, was picked 12th overall in 2022 and completed his inaugural professional season with 26 points in 76 games.
There is considerable optimism surrounding Buium, who appears headed toward becoming a top‑pair offensive defenseman, prompting the Canucks to take the chance.
Tanev, Leafs Hoping for Healthy Start to Season
Having endured several significant injuries last season, Tanev aims to begin the year on solid footing, remain healthy, and contribute to the Maple Leafs’ push back into the playoffs.
After battling upper‑body issues, a groin injury, and a season‑ending core‑muscle surgery, he managed only 11 games—the lowest total of his career.
Tanev’s physical, shot‑blocking style has historically cost him ice time, yet never to this degree. As he nears his 37th birthday this winter, concerns about his durability and availability are resurfacing.
When healthy, Tanev ranks among the league’s top shutdown defensemen. He remains under contract for four more seasons at $4.5 million and could become a cornerstone of the Maple Leafs’ revamped blue line, alongside newcomers Darren Raddysh and Emil Andrae.
Tanev told the Toronto Star, “We still have to check some boxes with the doctors…but the plan is for me to be out there day one of camp.” (Maple Leafs defenceman Chris Tanev awaiting medical clearance, eager to leave the “slow rehab” phase behind, Toronto Star, September 4, 2026)
7 RFA’s Remain, Will Any Hold Out?
Restricted free agents have dominated this offseason’s headlines, particularly due to the offer sheets and sizable contracts they’ve attracted.
Cutter Gauthier is pursuing a lucrative contract and allegedly declined a four‑year, $13 million offer. Negotiations remain open, as Gauthier continues to seek more compensation; with Leo Carlsson securing $18 million, Gauthier’s target is likely in that vicinity.
Eric Stephens of The Athletic noted, “Both sides are motivated to reach an agreement, and ongoing communication is a promising indicator.” (Connor Hellebuyck, Quinn Hughes, and Dylan Larkin highlighted in The Athletic’s piece on the NHL’s five biggest unanswered questions, September 3, 2026)
In the same article, Aaron Portzline commented on fellow RFA Fantilli, writing, “I expect a deal to be reached later this week or early next—my projection is five years at $13.5 million per season.”
Neither scenario appears headed toward a holdout, though anything remains possible.
Regarding other RFAs, Simon Edvinsson and the Detroit Red Wings are awaiting the hiring of a new general manager to finalize negotiations, a process expected to be straightforward.
Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin remains unsigned and is reportedly seeking more than $8 million. While the Hurricanes possess the cap room to sign him, they have also been shopping him in trade discussions.
Among the remaining RFAs are Montreal Canadiens players Arber Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc. Xhekaj has been involved in trade talks this summer, but should the Canadiens decide to retain him, reaching a new agreement would likely be uncomplicated. For Bolduc, the club could pursue a short‑term contract or aim for a mid‑ to long‑term deal that satisfies both parties.
Finally, Brennan Othmann is still without a contract with the Calgary Flames, and his agreement is expected to be a short‑term, low‑cost arrangement.
