In the world of professional sports, few things generate as much excitement and anxiety as the annual free agency period. For the National Hockey League (NHL), this period is a double-edged sword, offering fans the thrill of new talent acquisitions while also raising concerns about the financial burden of the salary cap. This year's free agency period has been particularly eye-opening, with several contracts that have left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. Among these, the top 10 worst NHL contracts for the 2026-27 season stand out, each for its own unique reasons.
One contract that immediately catches the eye is that of Jordan Binnington, a goalie for the St. Louis Blues. Binnington's six-year, $36 million extension has not lived up to expectations, with his performance being hot and cold, leading to trade rumors for years. Despite his impressive Stanley Cup win, Binnington's contract is a reminder that not all deals are a win-win for both parties.
Another contract that has raised eyebrows is that of Timo Meier, a winger for the New Jersey Devils. Meier's eight-year, $70.4 million deal has not translated into the high offensive expectations that came with it. While he has been a solid, consistent player, the Devils are left wondering if they overpaid for his services.
The San Jose Sharks' four-year, $33 million deal with Jacob Trouba is another contract that has raised questions. Trouba, known for his physical play and leadership, is being paid like a top point producer, even though he is 32 years old. The Sharks are hoping that his presence will help them, but the risk is clear.
J.T. Miller's seven-year, $56 million extension with the New York Rangers is another contract that has aged poorly. Miller, once a big-time point producer, is now expected to lead the Rangers with the style of play that made him so good with the Canucks. The pressure is on for him to deliver.
Kirill Kaprizov's eight-year, $136 million contract with the Minnesota Wild is a contract that has raised eyebrows. Kaprizov, a naturally gifted offensive talent, has scored 40 or more goals four times in six seasons. However, the Wild's GM Bill Guerin's decision to sign Kaprizov to the most lucrative contract in the NHL has left many wondering if it was a wise move.
Darnell Nurse's eight-year, $74 million extension with the Edmonton Oilers is another contract that has raised questions. Nurse, a steady two-way blue liner, is being paid like a top point producer, even though he has never played that style of game. The Oilers are hoping that playing with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will lead to more points, but the risk is clear.
Jonathan Huberdeau's eight-year, $84 million contract with the Calgary Flames is another contract that has not lived up to expectations. Huberdeau, fresh off a 115-point season in Florida, has only scored 194 points in 291 games with the Flames. The Flames are left wondering if they overpaid for his services.
Elias Pettersson's eight-year, $92.8 million extension with the Vancouver Canucks is a contract that has raised concerns. Pettersson, once a brilliant and creative offensive player, has been reduced to 96 points (30 goals) in 138 games over the past two seasons. The Canucks are left wondering if they overpaid for his services.
Bowen Byram's six-year, $75 million extension with the Chicago Blackhawks is a contract that has sent shockwaves through the league. Byram, a young defenseman, is being paid like a top player, even though he has not yet been a No. 1 defenseman. The Blackhawks are hoping that he will live up to the standard set by his contract.
Finally, Leo Carlsson's five-year, $90 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers, which the Anaheim Ducks matched, is a contract that has changed the negotiation landscape for young players. Carlsson, coming off his entry-level deal, is being paid $18 million per season, setting a new standard for young stars and potential stars. The Ducks are hoping that he will live up to the contract, but the bar is now set in outer space for him to clear.
In conclusion, the top 10 worst NHL contracts for the 2026-27 season are a reminder that not all deals are a win-win for both parties. Each contract has its own unique reasons for being on the list, and each raises questions about the financial burden of the salary cap. As the NHL continues to navigate the free agency period, these contracts will be a topic of discussion for years to come.
