NHL Rumor Mill – August 8, 2026

Connor Bedard's five-year, $15 million average annual value contract with the Chicago Blackhawks has influenced negotiations for Anaheim Ducks winger Cutter Gauthier and Columbus Blue Jackets center Adam Fantilli. Gauthier, who scored 41 goals last season, could command a contract in the $15 million to $16 million range, while Fantilli's expected deal may fall between $12 million and $12.5 million. The Ducks have just over $9 million in cap space, requiring salary reductions to accommodate Gauthier's new contract, whereas the Blue Jackets have over $13.4 million in cap space for Fantilli's potential agreement.