Jeff Marek believes Adam Fantilli is the young NHL star most likely to receive an offer sheet this summer, not Connor Bedard.
Speaking on The Sheet, Marek said the greater risk lies with the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Chicago appears far less vulnerable despite Bedard remaining a restricted free agent.
The comment comes after one of the busiest offer sheet periods in recent NHL history, with front offices now wondering who could be targeted next.
Marek didn't predict Fantilli will sign an offer sheet. He simply identified Columbus as the situation worth watching if another club decides to make an aggressive move.
That view isn't shared by everyone around the league.
David Pagnotta reported on the same show that Philadelphia, fresh off its failed pursuit of Leo Carlsson, is not expected to pivot toward Fantilli or Bedard as a backup plan.
" Jeff Marek: I would imagine that between Adam Fantilli and Connor Bedard the chance of an offer sheet rests mainly with the player in Columbus, not so much in Chicago - The Sheet (7/10) "
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Adam Fantilli just became the NHL's hottest offer sheet candidate this summer
The difference between the two situations is notable.
Connor Bedard has publicly expressed his desire to remain with the Blackhawks, and Chicago has ample salary-cap flexibility to match virtually any contract presented to its franchise center.
Fantilli, meanwhile, remains without a new deal in Columbus, keeping the Blue Jackets in the spotlight until an agreement is reached.
Offer sheets have become a much bigger talking point after several high-profile cases this offseason, giving rival general managers another tool to pressure teams negotiating with elite restricted free agents.
Even so, submitting an offer sheet is only part of the process. The player must agree to sign it, and the original club still has the right to match the contract and retain its star.
For now, Marek's comments add another layer to the league's busiest offseason storyline.
Until Fantilli signs in Columbus, speculation isn't going anywhere.
Would you submit a massive offer sheet for Adam Fantilli?
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