The Washington Capitals are paying more than any other team in the NHL for their D-core this year. Yes, we've all got Spidey senses tingling that the trades aren't done yet, but at a minimum they're spending $22 million and change on Chychrun, Carlson, and Roy alone, with an estimated $35.4 million total holding the line.
The Blue Jackets and the Oilers run a close second - both spending over $34 million on defense for the 2025-2026 season. While on the one hand we know that wins can't be bought, its hard to argue that there's a Capitals blueliner that isn't worth the juice.