Nick Schmaltz's recent signing of an eight-year extension at $8 million per season with Utah has shaken up the 2026 NHL free agency scene. Initially expected to be a star-studded lineup, the UFA market now looks a bit leaner, which is music to the ears of Chris Drury. He's eyeing a strategic play for Vincent Trocheck this summer.
Schmaltz's Deal and Trocheck's Rising Stock
Schmaltz, fresh off his 30th birthday, is having a standout season. With 24 goals, he's hit a personal best and is just five points away from setting a new career high in points.
Over 344 games with the team, Schmaltz has maintained a solid 0.78 points per game. Considering the rising salary cap, his $8 million cap hit, which is about 7.69% of the cap, seems spot on.
Enter Vincent Trocheck. At 32, Trocheck's numbers make him an even hotter commodity.
With three years left at a $5.625 million cap hit, he's been delivering 0.82 points per game since joining the Rangers. The math is straightforward: Trocheck offers nearly one percent less of the cap for better production.
Just two years ago, he notched a 77-point season, and his 43 points in 49 games this year have been crucial for the Rangers. Trocheck has proven his ability to drive play in a top-six role, making him one of the few premium options still available.
Drury's Competition in the Market
Although Schmaltz's signing clears a path, Drury still faces competition. The UFA market includes players like Charlie Coyle, with 51 points in 64 games, and the evergreen Evgeni Malkin, both viable middle-six options.
Boone Jenner, known for his grit at 32, is another name, though leaving Columbus seems unlikely. Despite these options, none match Trocheck's top-six potential.
The RFA market is packed with stars like Connor Bedard and Leo Carlsson, but prying them away seems improbable.
Robert Thomas looms large as a potential disruptor. Constantly swirling in trade rumors, Thomas is a prime target for teams seeking a young, elite center.
At 27 and with consecutive 80-point seasons, Thomas would demand a hefty return from St. Louis.
Then there's Auston Matthews, the ultimate wild card. With two years left on his contract and a full NMC, Matthews could push for a move if he's had enough of Toronto's trajectory. Despite a dip from 107 points in 2023-24 to 52 points in 57 games this season, a healthy Matthews remains a game-changer.
The Bottom Line
Chris Drury has a challenging path ahead. While Schmaltz's deal boosts Trocheck’s market appeal, Drury must still contend with the likes of Robert Thomas and potential superstar shifts. Ideally, Trocheck finishes the season strong, enticing teams back to the negotiating table with better offers this summer.