Nick Zararis (Locked On Oilers) and Mike DiStefano (Locked On Maple Leafs) cover all the biggest stories from the NHLs Eastern Conference.

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In this episode of Locked on NHL, hosts Seth Toupal and JD Young discuss the NHL's imminent financial shift. The salary cap is expected to rise significantly, potentially reaching $95-97 million next season and even higher in the following years. This anticipated increase could dramatically alter the landscape of player contracts and team spending strategies, offering franchises new opportunities to build competitive rosters.

In Edmonton, the Oilers are navigating a challenging period as they deal with the temporary loss of defenseman Darnell Nurse, who is expected to be out for 5-10 days due to a suspected concussion. Nurse's absence is a significant blow to the Oilers' defense, and the team will need to adjust quickly to maintain their competitive edge.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars are making headlines with their impressive performance in the Central Division. Currently just three points behind Minnesota, the Stars boast an 11-5 record, showcasing depth and resilience throughout their lineup. Even with some top players like Jason Robertson not yet hitting their full stride, the Stars are positioned well for the future. Their strong young core, combined with cap flexibility and a proven track record in drafting and developing talent, sets them up for sustained success.

The Western Conference wild card race is heating up, with several teams separated by only a few points. This tight competition underscores the importance of every game, particularly for teams like the Oilers, who cannot afford extended slumps if they hope to secure a playoff spot.

Join us as we delve into these developments, offering expert insights and analysis on how these dynamics could shape the remainder of the season. From the implications of the salary cap increase to the strategies teams might employ in response, we cover it all. Don't miss this comprehensive exploration of the current NHL landscape and what it means for the future of the league.

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FanDuel
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Edmonton Oilers cannot find their game yet this season despite the recent milestone for Connor McDavid, this team has been up and down.

Nick Zararis of Locked On Oilers joins us to discuss why the team is struggling with inconsistency and what they will do about it plus he discusses the hit on Darnell Nurse and why the team plays better when their backup goalie is playing.

Andrei Vasilevskiy became the fastest goalie in NHL history to record 300 wins in his career and then he followed that up with a shutout win over the New Jersey Devils.

Josh Sperber of Locked On Lightning joins us to discuss that plus how the Bolts can improve their consistency and become less top heavy offensively. We also break down the underappreciated contributions of Ryan McDonagh and Jake Guentzel.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are struggling early and GM Kyle Dubas may be trading away some veteran talent as part of a retool.

Hunter Hodies of Locked On Penguins joins us to discuss what's wrong with the team's defense and who may be on the block if Dubas does make some trades.

All this and more on today's Locked On NHL Podcast with Gil Martin.

Indeed
Still searching for a great candidate for your company? Don’t search, just match–with Indeed. Claim your SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLAR CREDIT now at Indeed.com/LOCKEDON. Terms and conditions apply. Need to hire? You need Indeed.

PrizePicks
Download the app or go to https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNHL to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup.

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
You can start the season with a big return on FanDuel. New customers can place a FIVE DOLLAR bet and you’ll get started with ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS - if you win your first FIVE DOLLAR BET ! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)