As the minutes go down before free agency opens in the NHL, the Utah Mammoth are set up nicely with about $18.4 million in salary cap space after the trade of Matias Maccelli to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Rumors have been swirling the last few weeks that Bill Armstrong is looking to take a big swing at a free agent, even after acquiring JJ Peterka from Buffalo.
Recent developments around the league have limited the number of unrestricted free agents available today. The Florida Panthers were able to re-sign Brad Marchand, a target of Armstrong, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett. John Tavares decided to stay in Toronto, while Mitch Marner is now in Vegas with the Golden Knights. Patrick Kane, Claude Giroux, and Ivan Provorov all re-upped with their current clubs.
Although the big targets have found new contracts, the Mammoth will have several options to choose from at 10 AM. I would not count out a trade from Armstrong or even dipping into offer sheets for other restricted free agents. Another possibility today could be an extension with Logan Cooley.
Bill Armstrong has identified improving the skill at the forward position and has taken a big step by acquiring Peterka. Still, the cap space available could be used on a top target today at forward. With the shuffle in re-signings, the top three targets up front are Brock Boeser, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Mikael Granlund. Beyond those players, you are looking at a step lower.
The departures of players like Josh Doan and Matias Maccelli leave an opening on the third and fourth line, so Armstrong will look at those players after the big targets go. It would not be surprising to see a reunion with Nick Bjugstad to fill one of the depth roles.
If the big three players in Boeser, Ehlers, and Granlund are signed, Armstrong will look to trade for another "blockbuster" player. The attention will turn to the depth pieces, but don't be surprised if goaltending becomes an interest for Armstrong. Jake Allen is the top target, but would fit as a 1B option in the crease in Utah.
Enjoy the day and be careful for fake X accounts spreading false rumors!