Shane Pinto of USA with his gold medal after the 2025 Ice Hockey World Championship (Credit: Getty Images) The 2025-26 NHL season is approaching, and several notable players. All are in contract situations that could impact their teams. Shane Pinto of the Ottawa Senators, Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks, Michael McLeod joining the Carolina Hurricanes, and goaltender Carter Hart are all managing important decisions. Each player’s choice will shape their career path and affect team strategies for the upcoming season.
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Shane Pinto focuses on the Ottawa Senators’ future
Shane Pinto, the 24-year-old center for the Ottawa Senators, is entering the final year of his contract. He scored a career-high 37 points in 70 games last season while playing on Ottawa’s third line. His current cap hit is $3.75 million.The Senators have communicated with Pinto’s representatives about a potential contract extension. Team management plans to let the season progress before finalizing negotiations to avoid distractions, and Pinto remains focused on playing hockey. And contributing to team performance, as this approach allows both the player and the Senators to assess the season and plans. That too, without rushing decisions.
Mason McTavish’s contract talks with the Anaheim Ducks
Mason McTavish continues to play with the Ottawa 67s in the OHL. While negotiating a contract with the Anaheim Ducks. His agents and the Ducks are working to narrow differences in contract terms.McTavish is reportedly considering a seven to eight-year deal with an annual average value of $7 to $8 million. The Ducks have offered a five-year contract at approximately $5.5 million. These negotiations aim to strike a balance between the parties. That, too, is a consideration between long-term security for the player and the team’s financial flexibility. McTavish’s performance this season remains the priority while discussions continue.
Michael McLeod joins the Carolina Hurricanes, Carter Hart updates
Michael McLeod, the 20-year-old forward from the New Jersey Devils, is set to join the Carolina Hurricanes once eligible to sign. The team views McLeod as a key addition to their forward group. This adds depth and versatility to the lineup.Goaltender Carter Hart is reviewing potential opportunities. As several NHL teams have expressed interest, while others have already opted out or redirected their focus elsewhere, notably, the San Jose Sharks are not currently pursuing Hart. Both McLeod and Hart’s upcoming decisions will shape team rosters and impact the lineup. That too in the early stages of the 2025-26 season.Shane Pinto, Mason McTavish, Michael McLeod, and Carter Hart are all in positions that could affect the NHL landscape this season. Their contract and team decisions will influence performance, depth, and overall strategies for the Ottawa Senators, Anaheim Ducks, and Carolina Hurricanes.Also Read: NHL star Connor McDavid’s wife, Lauren Kyle, opens her cottage retreat