NHL’s Biggest Unanswered Questions Heading into Training Camp
Written by Josie Dinonsie
The NHL offseason has entered a quieter stretch in the weeks leading up to training camp, but plenty of questions remain unanswered.
For some teams, the biggest concerns center on getting key \]players healthy. For others, unresolved free-agent decisions, potential trades and roster moves could shape how they enter the 2026-27 season.
With training camp approaching, these uncertainties could have a significant impact on several teams. Here are some of the league’s biggest questions heading into camp.
1. When will Brad Marchand return?
Florida Panthers winger Brad Marchand announced this week that he underwent surgery after an ongoing injury failed to heal through conservative treatment. His recovery timeline remains unclear, creating uncertainty over whether he will be ready for the start of the season.
The 38-year-old missed the final 19 games of the 2025-26 regular season because of the lower-body injury after recording 54 points in 52 games. His absence was felt by the Panthers, who rely on Marchand not only for his offensive production but also for his veteran leadership and competitive edge.
Marchand’s ability to contribute as a gritty, intelligent playmaker was a major reason Florida committed to him on a six-year contract. Now, the question is whether he will be healthy enough to fill that role from the opening weeks of the season as the Panthers look to rebound.
2. Where will the remaining free agents end up?
A handful of notable players remain available as teams continue to assess their rosters. Among the names still circulating are Patrik Laine, Vladimir Tarasenko and Michael Bunting.
Laine remains an intriguing option because of his offensive ability, but his situation is complicated by an injury-plagued season in Montreal. The 28-year-old still has the talent to produce at a high level, but he will need to rediscover the consistency that made him one of the league’s most promising young players.
Tarasenko brings a wealth of experience, two Stanley Cups and a proven scoring touch. However, the veteran winger has moved between five organizations since 2022-23, making his next destination difficult to predict.
Bunting, meanwhile, has demonstrated that he can provide secondary scoring and has played alongside some of the league’s top talent. His ability to reach the 20-goal mark makes him an appealing option, although consistency has remained an issue.
All three could become valuable additions for teams dealing with injuries or looking to fill holes before the season begins.
3. Will the injured stars be ready for the start of the season?
Marchand is not the only major injury concern heading into training camp. Several other high-profile players are expected to miss significant time after undergoing surgery this summer.
Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard underwent shoulder surgery in July and is expected to miss approximately four months, which could push his season debut into November. Seth Jarvis of the 2026 Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes also underwent shoulder surgery and is expected to miss four to six months, creating a major concern for Carolina’s offense.
The timing of their returns could have a significant impact on their respective teams. If either player is sidelined longer than expected, their teams may have to explore trades or free-agent additions to help fill the void.
The weeks before training camp can bring plenty of movement across the NHL, from free-agent signings and trades to unexpected injuries and promising young players making a push for roster spots. With only a few weeks remaining before camps open, teams still have time to make adjustments, but the quiet stretch of the offseason could change quickly.
For now, the league is waiting. Once training camps open, many of these unanswered questions will finally begin to have answers.
