In the 2026 NHL offseason, offer sheets are expected to be a rare occurrence, but there are still some intriguing candidates who could be targeted. Here are some players who could be potential offer sheet targets, along with commentary and analysis from an expert perspective:
Zachary Bolduc, RW, Montreal Canadiens: Bolduc showed promise as a two-way player in his rookie season with the Blues, but he struggled to secure a consistent role in Montreal. With limited cap space and the need for a No. 2 center, the Canadiens could be vulnerable to an offer sheet for Bolduc, who has established upside and a modest 2025-26 campaign that would keep his AAV within a reasonable compensation threshold.
Mavrik Bourque, RW, Dallas Stars: Dallas faces a challenge with Robertson's contract, and Bourque could be an attractive option. As the 2023-24 AHL scoring champion and MVP, Bourque has shown enough upside to warrant a solid mid-range commitment on a medium-term deal. However, Dallas's limited cap space makes it difficult to afford him, and the team might need to make a difficult decision to clear space.
Pavel Dorofeyev, RW, Vegas Golden Knights: Dorofeyev has been a standout performer for the Golden Knights, scoring 35 or more goals in each of the past two seasons. His next contract will likely require significant compensation, and his value as a 25-year-old, multi-time 35-goal scorer makes him an attractive target for rival teams willing to eat the compensation cost. The Golden Knights' cap constraints and the need to retain impact players make them a ripe target for an offer sheet.
Jack Drury, C, Colorado Avalanche: Drury has been a solid bottom-six center for the Avs, but the team's limited cap space and the need to make roster upgrades could make him an offer sheet target. If another team values Drury higher than the Avalanche, GM Joe Sakic might have to accept draft picks and cap space to retain him.
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 the need to re-sign top UFA Alex Tuch, Krebs could be an offer sheet target if his AAV is too rich for Buffalo's budget. The Sabres' cap crunch and the need to prioritize Tuch make Krebs a potential candidate.
Pavel Mintyukov & Olen Zellweger, D, Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks have a busy offseason with multiple RFAs to re-sign. Mintyukov and Zellweger, both with immense potential as puck-movers, could be ideal offer sheet targets. GM Pat Verbeek's focus on other free agents might lead him to overlook these players, making them vulnerable to an offer sheet.
Cole Perfetti, RW, Winnipeg Jets: Perfetti is a gifted playmaker but hasn't yet solidified a top-six role. The Jets' cap space and the need to appease their core, particularly goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, could make them hesitant to offer him an extension. Another team's projected breakout could push the Jets to consider an offer sheet.
Mackie Samoskevich, RW, Florida Panthers: Samoskevich has shown potential as a talented 23-year-old forward, but his limited ice time and the Panthers' ambitions make him an intriguing offer sheet candidate. With Bill Zito's aggressive approach, the Panthers might prioritize options that help them dominate in the present, and Samoskevich could be a sweet-spot AAV target for another team.
