As the NHL's free agency period kicks into high gear, hockey fans are bracing for a season of unprecedented financial splurging and roster shake-ups. A surge in revenue from lucrative media deals and increased attendance has left teams with a record amount of cap space, but a dearth of top talent on the market has created a buyer's market. With many of the league's biggest stars already locked into long-term deals, teams are being forced to get creative in their pursuit of championship-caliber players. How will this unusual dynamic reshape the NHL's competitive landscape and which teams will come out on top in the battle for talent?

How will the NHL’s unusually cash-rich, talent-poor free agency change the league?  The New York Times