NHL Free Agency Overview
This year’s NHL free agency is shaping up to be quite unusual. There’s been a whirlwind of trades ahead of the draft that has led to several prominent players finding new teams. Meanwhile, the market for restricted free agents, particularly highlighting Jason Robertson, is still in flux. This mixture has resulted in an unexpected list of free agents and, frankly, some substantial upgrades for teams looking to improve.
Free agency kicks off on July 1 at 9 a.m. ET. Yet, the team is still knee-deep in major trades, and there’s a prevailing sense that some of the biggest names might linger on the market a bit longer. For instance, Winnipeg is still weighing offers for Connor Hellebuyck; Zach Werenski might be on the move, and there’s chatter around the Montreal Canadiens concerning a potential deal aimed at strengthening their squad. This chain reaction could have implications for free agency as it opens the door for various teams to seize mid-level talent.
Let’s dive into the top 10 players available this year:
1. Rasmus Andersson, D, Vegas Golden Knights
Acquired from the Calgary Flames during the trade deadline, Andersson played a pivotal role in pushing the Golden Knights toward the Stanley Cup. At 29, he’s a standout defenseman and a key asset, though keeping him could require considerable salary cap juggling from Vegas. While it’s possible, the odds lean towards him entering free agency.
He’s not just a traditional defenseman; he contributed 47 points in the 2025-26 season and can add offensive depth, albeit he’s not strictly a power play quarterback. Still, he’s expected to command an annual average value around $10 million.
2. John Carlson, D, Carolina Hurricanes
Technicalities aside, the Canes have Carlson’s rights after a late trade during the 2026 NHL Draft brought him in from the Anaheim Ducks, allowing them to negotiate ahead of free agency.
Age doesn’t seem to hinder Carlson, who continues to perform at an elite level—70 points in 71 games last season keeps him firmly in the top ten defensemen in the NHL. However, reports indicate that his camp is looking for a short-term deal in the $10 million range, which might complicate matters for Carolina. Given their limited focus on adding defensive depth right now, it’s uncertain whether they’ll invest heavily in Carlson.
3. Anthony Mantha, LW, Pittsburgh Penguins
Mantha might be more valuable than his fluctuating stats suggest; he appears more aligned with his 64-point season last year than the 44 he recorded in 2023-24. While it’s clear he’s developing in a system that needs him, the lack of surrounding talent might hold him back.
I believe he could be a solid addition for a playoff-bound team seeking more skill, and he likely won’t cost an arm and a leg in free agency. His inconsistent performance could raise red flags for some teams.
4. Jacob Trouba, D, Anaheim Ducks
After the Ducks let John Karlsson go and lost Trouba in free agency, they’re facing significant challenges on defense.
Trouba can function as a dependable second-line defenseman for many NHL teams. While he’s not top-tier, he brings experience and long-range passing that could benefit teams in need of a veteran presence on the blue line.
5. Stuart Skinner, G, Edmonton Oilers
The NHL is facing a goalie talent shortage, placing Skinner at No. 5 on this list. Despite some hesitations when given opportunities, he still remains a viable option.
At this point, he’s likely a junior starter or a solid backup. There’s potential value in him, especially as teams like the Oilers figure out their future with Sergei Bobrovsky and Connor Hellebuyck.
6. Alexander Ovechkin, LW, Washington Capitals
Ovechkin is in a tough spot, wrestling with decisions about whether to retire, re-sign with the Capitals, or explore free agency. Honestly, I have my doubts about a 40-year-old fitting anywhere in the league at this stage. His stellar career is undeniable, but recently, scoring has been the extent of his contributions. Defensively, he’s more of a liability and his passing isn’t noteworthy either.
At this point, some teams might view him as a means to sell tickets, though it would seem more appropriate to let a legend retire gracefully.
7. Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Florida Panthers
Bobrovsky’s previous season has been somewhat overshadowed by discussions about the Panthers’ injuries and his camp’s attempts to market him as a lengthy $4.5 million AAV player, despite last year’s performance not supporting that value.
His stats from the 2025-26 season—.877 save percentage and 3.07 goals against—suggest he may not bounce back to a prime form. It appears that he’s entering a decline.
8. Boone Jenner, C, Columbus Blue Jackets
Jenner may not stand out, but the center market is pretty weak overall, especially for seasoned players. Teams looking for depth in third or fourth-line roles could find him appealing, particularly for his faceoff skills.
9. Viktor Arvidsson, LW, Boston Bruins
Arvidsson certainly has talent, being quick and capable of taking good shots. However, his specific skill set doesn’t make him the core piece for any team. He might serve as a decent role player, provided there’s a clear plan on how to deploy him effectively. It’s essential teams don’t mistakenly think he’ll become a regular 20-goal scorer without understanding how to maximize his abilities.
10. Mason Marchment, F, Columbus Blue Jackets
There had been rumors of Marchment being traded during the NHL Draft, but he turned out to be crucial for the Blue Jackets, who hoped to secure a new contract with him. While he’s solid as a third-line player, his impact is limited.
