Articles / Vilardi, Kakko among 11 players to file for NHL salary arbitration

Vilardi, Kakko among 11 players to file for NHL salary arbitration

P
Pro Hockey News
Jul 6, 2025 4:42 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Pro Hockey News. Read the full original article here →

In a significant move during the NHL offseason, eleven players have filed for salary arbitration, a process that could lead to increased pay and contract negotiations. Among the players filing are Alex Lafreniere and Kaapo Kakko, both of whom are critical forward assets for the New York Rangers. Lafreniere, who had a solid season, is looking to secure his financial future, while Kakko aims to prove his worth as he continues to develop into a pivotal player for the team.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Kings are represented in this arbitration wave by their promising young talent, Gabe Vilardi. The Kings are counting on Vilardi to further elevate their roster as they aim for a deeper playoff run in the coming season. The arbitration process allows these athletes to negotiate their contracts based on their performance and potential, setting the stage for pivotal decisions that can impact not just their careers but their respective franchises as well.

Teams like the New York Rangers and the Los Angeles Kings are faced with the challenge of managing their salary caps amidst these arbitration filings. The outcome will not only influence the players involved but also shape the strategies of these organizations as they prepare for the next chapter of their seasons. With negotiations underway, fans are left to wonder how each player's future will unfold and what that means for their beloved franchises heading into the new NHL season.