With the party finally starting to subside in South Florida, it’s time to get down to business.
The Florida Panthers would love to keep all three of their high-end unrestricted free agents, but that’s going to be a tall task with the contracts Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad will all be able to command following a Stanley Cup victory.
Stay tuned.
They’ve each got a whack of teams hoping to be able to take a run at them when the market opens on July 1.
Any rivals trying to mimic Florida’s recent run of success would also be wise to look for some hidden gems a little deeper down the board, too. The Panthers have been masters at finding useful contributors on bargain basement deals while winning consecutive championships.
With less than a week to go until free agency, the market is starting to take shape.
Here’s the latest edition of the Big Board.
(Note: Net ratings are for 2024-25 via The Athletic’s Dom Luszczyszyn, stats are via Hockey-Reference and GSAx via Evolving-Hockey. Contract projections are via CapWages and AFP Analytics, updated through the end of the regular season.)
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Team at end of 2024-25
Toronto Maple Leafs
Previous contract
6 years, $10,903,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
27 goals, 102 points, 21:19 ATOI, plus-18, 81 GP
Coming off the most productive season of his NHL career, Marner is the kind of blue-chip player who rarely hits the open market in his prime. Adding him would be viewed as a franchise-altering move in several markets across the league because of a unique skill set that makes him not only one of the NHL’s most offensively gifted performers but also one of its more trusted forwards on the defensive side of the puck. The former Selke Trophy finalist has been a top penalty-killing option for years and routinely uses his elite instincts to pressure opponents into turnovers when defending at five-on-five. Marner will be paid among the game’s highest earners on his next contract.
Contract projection
7 years, $12,952,529 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
4 years, $4,425,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
25 goals, 51 points, 17:27 ATOI, minus-15, 76 GP
The Conn Smythe Trophy winner is on the younger end of this free-agent class and brings something that can’t be measured with boxcar numbers: tenacity. One NHL exec calls him a “dog on a bone.” So while other centers with longer track records of regular-season production will be available in free agency, Bennett will be more in demand because he’s viewed as a player who could tip the scales for a team in the playoffs. He scored 15 goals during this most recent run, which was his third straight trip to the Stanley Cup Final.
Contract projection
6 years, $6,637,250 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
8 years, $6,125,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
23 goals, 51 points, 18:19 ATOI, minus-7, 71 GP
So compelling was his career revival in Florida that Marchand is now in line for a meaningful raise at age 37. Expect his next deal to land in the $8 million range on a four-year term, according to league sources. Not only did Marchand prove he can be a culture-setter and play-driver outside of Boston during his stint with the Panthers, but he was arguably the unsung hero in their Cup win. He scored 10 goals during the playoffs, six of which came in the final series against Edmonton. You won’t find high-motor, high-character players with Stanley Cup pedigree and Team Canada bona fides on the NHL’s open market too often.
Contract projection
2 years, $5,093,333 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
8 years, $7,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
3 goals, 33 points, 23:31 ATOI, plus-11, 56 GP
Still relatively young and already with nearly 800 total NHL games on his resume, Ekblad is a bit of a polarizing player among scouts. That he chews through minutes as a top-pairing right-shot defenseman should make him incredibly valuable, especially since his resume now includes three straight trips to the Stanley Cup Final with the Panthers. Not only is he big and strong, he’s also a good passer who has consistently put up solid offensive numbers throughout his career. However, there are some concerns out there about how well Ekblad’s game will age. He’s also been plagued by injuries in recent years and served a 20-game suspension for violating the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program this season after, he said, accidentally taking a product to help with injury recovery that included a banned substance.
Contract projection
7 years, $7,802,350 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Toronto Maple Leafs
Previous contract
7 years, $11,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
38 goals, 74 points, 18:14 ATOI, plus-10, 75 GP
Tavares is a reluctant free agent who is still hoping to work things out in Toronto. The veteran will draw multiple suitors if he hits the open market. Tavares is coming off a season in which he drank from the fountain of youth, scoring the most goals (38) among any player in this free-agent class and the third-most points (74). It’s a reflection of the fact that, while his skating (never a strength) may not blow anyone away, his hockey IQ and hands are as sharp as ever. Tavares remains incredibly driven when it comes to his preparation, and he’s deadly when the puck is on his stick around the net. He’s also elite in the faceoff dot. When you couple that package of skills with his impressive resume and positive dressing-room impacts, you have a unique player.
Contract projection
3 years, $7,939,870 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Winnipeg Jets
Previous contract
7 years, $6,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
24 goals, 63 points, 15:48 ATOI, plus-14, 69 GP
Steady as a drumbeat, Ehlers has been an automatic 20-plus-goal player for a decade and consistently drives play for teammates. While not physically imposing at 6 feet and 172 pounds, he backs opponents off with his immense skill. Ehlers can both start plays and finish them, and he’s posted a 55 percent expected goals percentage at even strength through more than 600 career NHL games. He’s also a power-play threat who produced points at the best rate of his NHL career this season. While he’d be a useful top-six addition for basically every team in the league, there may be some durability concerns with Ehlers over the long haul.
Contract projection
6 years, $8,106,756 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Vancouver Canucks
Previous contract
3 years, $6,650,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
25 goals, 50 points, 18:10 ATOI, minus-25, 75 GP
He’s scored at a 30-goals-per-82-game pace across his NHL career, while only actually cresting that mark once, when he scored 40 times in 2023-24. Boeser is a pure sniper with a dangerous release, which makes him a threat both on the power play and at even strength. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued him at times during his career, but there’s no getting around that he excels at the most difficult thing in the game to do. Getting a fresh start after a difficult final season in Vancouver could put some wind in his sails.
Contract projection
6 years, $8,459,390 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Los Angeles Kings
Previous contract
2 years, $5,875,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
5 goals, 30 points, 23:05 ATOI, plus-26, 82 GP
While Gavrikov may not be a household name, he was a top-pairing defenseman on one of the stingiest defensive outfits in the league this season. That’s earned him plenty of admirers across the NHL. The Kings’ leader in total ice time this season, Gavrikov is known as a player who seals the wall and keeps the game in front of him. There’s also an element of physicality and bite to his game that prevents opponents from getting through him, and he keeps the play moving, which is reflected in the high-end possession metrics Los Angeles produced with him on the ice. While Gavrikov lacks the offensive tools and production to be viewed as a No. 1 defenseman, he has a credible case as a No. 2.
Contract projection
7 years, $7,608,621 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
6 years, $6,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 33 points, 23:21 ATOI, plus-11, 82 GP
Provorov is an all-situations defender who is equally as comfortable lining up on the right side as the left, which boosts his value ever so slightly. He’s played more than 20 minutes a night since stepping into the NHL at age 20 and possesses a smooth skating stride that should age well. While prone to the occasional defensive error, he excels at getting play going in the right direction with a good stick to force turnovers and a strong breakout pass. It’s no certainty that he’ll hit the open market with his younger brother, Vladimir, set to move to Columbus to attend Ohio State.
Contract projection
6 years, $7,014,842 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
New Jersey Devils
Previous contract
2 years, $3,850,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
13-16-1, 2.66 GAA, .906 save percentage
A well-known commodity who has appeared in more than 450 career NHL games, Allen was a bright spot in the No. 2 role for the Devils this season. Not only was his .906 save percentage right in line with his career average, but also his goals saved above expected per 60 minutes ranked among the top goalies in the entire league. Allen stands above a thin free-agent class at his position.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,512,278 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Dallas Stars
Previous contract
4 years, $5,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
22 goals, 66 points, 19:27 ATOI, even, 83 GP
Granlund enjoyed a nice run to the conference final with the Stars after coming over from San Jose in a midseason trade, and he illustrated exactly what he is in those two disparate situations — a useful middle-six winger on a contender who can handle top-line duty on a weaker roster. His experience and versatility are a plus, as is that he can contribute to both special-teams units and handle his business in the faceoff dot. A steady player all around.
Contract projection
2 years, $4,975,550 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Detroit Red Wings
Previous contract
1 year, $4,000,000 with $2,500,000 bonuses
2024-25 stats
21 goals, 59 points, 17:59 ATOI, minus-16, 72 GP
If you’re looking for signs of encouragement here, Kane has scored and put up points at a better rate in the two seasons after hip surgery than the two immediately before it. The procedure looks to have given new life to one of the best American players ever. Still, Kane hasn’t appeared in a playoff game during that period and might be tempted to jump to a contender under the right circumstances. He remains an elite playmaker and puck handler who would nicely complement high-end offensive teammates.
Contract projection
1 year, $3,457,100 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Vancouver Canucks
Previous contract
2 years, $1,600,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
25 goals, 46 points, 17:21 ATOI, plus-2, 81 GP
A Swiss Army Knife-type coming off the best season of his career, Suter profiles as a third-line center who can be moved around a lineup as needed. What he lacks in pure foot speed, he makes up for with an ability to process the game at a high level, which keeps him a step ahead positionally on the ice. During his time with the Canucks, Suter also showed that he can handle tough matchups, which is why he could command as much as $5 million per season on the open market.
Contract projection
4 years, $4,983,054 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Carolina Hurricanes
Previous contract
2 years, $7,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
6 goals, 28 points, 20:00 ATOI, plus-16, 76 GP
The Hurricanes may not have been the best fit for Orlov’s preferred style of play, and a rough ending to the playoffs may ultimately affect his market. So, consider this a buy-low opportunity. Orlov has been an excellent two-way defender throughout his career and can handle the physical demands of the position.
Contract projection
3 years, $5,806,400 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
1 years, $2,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
9 goals, 26 points, 20:54 ATOI, plus-20, 68 GP
After going from a waiver claim to a spot on the Blue Jackets’ top pairing with Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski, Fabbro supercharged his career. The right-shot defenseman more than held his own while seeing 21 minutes per night for three-quarters of the season. Fabbro gets around the ice well and has a heavy shot, as evidenced by his nine even-strength goals. He should be in for a nice payday this summer.
Contract projection
4 years, $4,528,519 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Colorado Avalanche
Previous contract
1 year, $4,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
4 goals, 22 points, 19:42 ATOI, even, 72 GP
Lindgren is a high-character player who doesn’t shy away from physical play and is at an age where he likely hasn’t yet hit his ceiling. Some of the defensive challenges that plagued the end of his tenure with the Rangers weren’t as evident in Colorado, where he logged more than 18 minutes per night in the playoffs after arriving at the trade deadline. Lindgren is a steady puck-mover who can contribute on the penalty kill.
Contract projection
3 years, $4,027,371 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
1 year, $800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
5 goals, 19 points, 16:32 ATOI, plus-4, 80 GP
Bought out by Winnipeg a year ago, Schmidt found a home on the Panthers’ third pairing and was a steady contributor during their Stanley Cup run. The affable puck-moving defenseman brings life to the dressing room and keeps the game moving in the right direction when he’s on the ice. Florida had 59 percent of the expected goals during his five-on-five minutes in the regular season. He’ll be looking for a raise after playing for $800,000 with the Panthers.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,995,517 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Ottawa Senators
Previous contract
3 years, $6,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
15 goals, 50 points, 18:12 ATOI, minus-8, 81 GP
Word is that Giroux would prefer to stay in Ottawa, where he’s become a trusted voice around an emerging team. But so far, the sides haven’t come together on a new contract. Some of the offensive pop appears to be waning with age, but Giroux remains an elite faceoff man and a skilled playmaker. He’s a good power-play option, too.
Contract projection
2 years, $5,172,280 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Colorado Avalanche
Previous contract
1 year, $2,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 37 points 18:11 ATOI, plus-4, 43 GP
He’s put up 0.76 points per game across the past two seasons in Colorado, where he took advantage of favorable lineup deployment. Drouin excels when skating alongside a high-end finisher because of his playmaking creativity and vision.
Contract projection
3 years, $5,024,494 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Carolina Hurricanes
Previous contract
1 year, $2,800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
22 goals, 39 points, 13:49 ATOI, minus-10, 81 GP
A strong skater with a decent set of offensive tools, Roslovic can be counted on to produce about 0.5 points per game. He brings some versatility as a right winger or center who can help a power play. However, Roslovic also has battled consistency issues and was a healthy scratch at points for Carolina during the playoffs.
Contract projection
3 years, $4,094,563 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Dallas Stars
Previous contract
8 years, $9,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
16 goals, 49 points, 15:18 ATOI, plus-3, 80 GP
While no longer the NHL’s preeminent power forward, Benn continues to play a physical and effective brand of hockey. He’s more of a checker at this stage of his career, but can also be counted on for a bit of bottom-six offense, as evidenced by his 15 even-strength goals this season. A return to Dallas makes the most sense here, but the Stars are operating with little cap space.
Contract projection
2 years, $4,801,740 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
1 year, $1,150,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
19 goals, 30 points, 11:56 ATOI, plus-12, 81 GP
Fresh off a fifth loss in the Stanley Cup Final in the past six years, Perry is determined to plow on. A return to Edmonton is possible, but there may also be a healthy market for him elsewhere. Speed has never been an asset for the 40-year-old winger, but he hasn’t lost any of his battle level or love for the game. Perry continues to get to the hardest areas of the ice and scored 19 goals in the regular season, plus another 10 in the playoffs.
Contract projection
1 year, $964,550 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Calgary Flames
Previous contract
2 years, $2,200,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
12-11-6, 2.80 GAA, .898 save percentage
Vladar has never made more than 30 appearances in an NHL season, so he shouldn’t be viewed as a No. 1 option. A big man known for his athleticism, there may be a higher level of performance to be unlocked here. Outside of a down year in 2023-24, he’s performed at roughly league-average level since the pandemic.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,463,060 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
1 year, $1,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
13 goals, 30 points, 14:01 ATOI, plus-9, 82 GP
A fantastic teammate who is finally healthy again after missing virtually all of the 2022-23 season because of major knee surgery, Brown is a low-maintenance winger and an attractive complementary roster piece. You can count on him to hound pucks and kill penalties. He’ll chip in with the odd big goal, too.
Contract projection
3 years, $2,920,564 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
1 year, $1,755,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
1 goal, 4 points, 17:15 ATOI, even, 11 GP
Klingberg is skating incredibly well after missing a year to a double hip-resurfacing procedure. In fact, his performance during the Oilers’ playoff run should have him in reasonable demand this summer. While he’s almost certainly not going to be a $7 million player like he was in the past, Klingberg’s ability to transport the puck and facilitate breakouts still holds value. The player believes he’ll be healthy enough to play multiple more years.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,999,770 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Boston Bruins
Previous contract
1 year, $3,100,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
3 goals, 10 points, 17:50 ATOI, plus-13, 60 GP
He’ll hit free agency just days after celebrating his 26th birthday, making him one of the youngest players available on the open market. It’s still not clear exactly where Jokiharju’s ceiling will settle as an NHL player. He’s a strong puck-mover who has made some strides with his defensive game, but his size has kept him from playing big minutes.
Contract projection
3 years, $3,126,942 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Dallas Stars
Previous contract
4 years, $3,250,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
4 goals, 24 points, 21:13 ATOI, even, 85 GP
Ceci’s one of the more polarizing performers in the NHL. As easy as it is to poke holes in his puck-handling ability or lukewarm offensive numbers, he has been a core defensive fixture on multiple teams that have recently gone on long playoff runs. He’s a minute-muncher who kills penalties and tends to pair well with a more offensive-minded partner. He’s a right-handed shot, too.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,543,050 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
2 years, $2,300,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
8 goals, 15 points, 13:43 ATOI, minus-16, 58 GP
There have been discussions on an eight-year contract extension that would keep him in Edmonton, according to league sources, so Frederic may not make the open market. He was limited by a high-ankle sprain after the in-season trade from Boston to Edmonton, but clearly he made a strong impact. Frederic is a big man who skates well and can effectively be deployed as a checker. He’s a bottom-sixer, but he’s also got an 18-goal, 40-point campaign on his resume.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,448,346 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Vegas Golden Knights
Previous contract
1 year, $1,075,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
15 goals, 29 points, 14:30 ATOI, plus-17, 56 GP
Olofsson’s biggest weapon is a hard, heavy and accurate shot. That makes him a threat to score whether he’s on the ice at five-on-five or patrolling the power play. While his game can leave something to be desired on the defensive side of the puck, there’s always going to be room for Olofsson in a lineup somewhere because of his ability to score goals.
Contract projection
3 years, $3,410,544 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Los Angeles Kings
Previous contract
2 years, $5,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 37 points, 15:38 ATOI, minus-6, 66 GP
A puzzling player who either seems to be scoring in bunches or not at all, Kuzmenko had a nice run in Los Angeles after coming over at the trade deadline. He scored three times in a six-game series loss to the Oilers. While the degree of unpredictability is high here, it’s hard to ignore the 39-goal, 74-point campaign Kuzmenko had in Vancouver in 2022-23.
Contract projection
3 years, $4,490,622 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Tampa Bay Lightning
Previous contract
2 years, $1,125,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
6 goals, 19 points, 14:41 ATOI, plus-8, 74 GP
A bit of a late bloomer who only broke into the NHL three seasons ago, Perbix has the size and demeanour to carve out a long career. He reads the play well and is positionally sound. There are some offensive limitations to Perbix’s game, but he’s a steady player with some room still to grow.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,645,350 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Carolina Hurricanes
Previous contract
8 years, $8,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
6 goals, 29 points, 20:57 ATOI, plus-7, 82 GP
The owner of the NHL’s second-longest consecutive games played streak at 925 games, the 40-year-old workhorse is coming off a season in which he played 21 minutes per night for Carolina. His offensive production has trended down with age, but he’s still pretty mobile for a large man and can give you some spot duty on a power play, when needed.
Contract projection
1 year, $5,319,350 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
New Jersey Devils
Previous contract
2 years, $3,150,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
3 goals, 22 points, 19:33 ATOI, minus-1, 80 GP
A veteran left-shot defenseman with two Stanley Cups already on his resume, Dumoulin profiles as a nice depth addition for a contender. Big and mobile, he can be trusted to move the puck effectively while handling a steady workload. He’s not known for being overly physical, but he also won’t be pushed around.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,189,700 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Vegas Golden Knights
Previous contract
3 years, $5,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
13 goals, 40 points, 15:26 ATOI, plus-10, 79 GP
There’s been a slight dip in production in the past two years, but Smith remains a strong two-way player with Stanley Cup pedigree. He can be counted on to win puck battles and is an effective penalty killer who has 15 short-handed goals on his resume. Smith is also a big-game player known for strong playoff showings.
Contract projection
2 years, $4,379,630 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Washington Capitals
Previous contract
3 years, $5,800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
14 goals, 28 points, 13:02 ATOI, even, 81 GP
Best slotted as a third-liner at this point in his career, Mangiapane is known for having a nose for the net. He scored 13 even-strength goals for Washington this season and also was deployed as a penalty killer. Just 29, there’s still good hockey left in Mangiapane’s legs.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,828,489 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Detroit Red Wings
Previous contract
2 years, $900,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
14-9-1, 2.81 GAA, .896 save percentage
The journeyman is known as a good goaltending partner and a reliable No. 2. He moves around the crease well and has put together some strong NHL stretches, basically getting the Florida Panthers into the playoffs with a hot run at the end of 2022-23, when he briefly supplanted Sergei Bobrovsky. Lyon made 74 appearances for Detroit across the last two seasons.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,798,583 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Winnipeg Jets
Previous contract
3 years, $2,166,667 AAV
2024-25 stats
10 goals, 22 points, 14:50 ATOI, plus-7, 71 GP
A steady winger who doesn’t do anything flashy, Appleton is a veteran who can be trusted to handle his own on the defensive side of the puck. He also has a little offense in his stick, primarily as a playmaker. Appleton will likely find a raise on the $2.1 million he was earning.
Contract projection
3 years, $3,222,170 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Ottawa Senators
Previous contract
1 year, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
19 goals, 26 points, 10:25 ATOI, plus-12, 81 GP
After bouncing between five organizations in eight years, not to mention between the AHL and NHL during many of those stops, Gaudette exploded for a career season with 19 goals in Ottawa. While there will still be some “buyer beware” around those numbers given past consistency issues, Gaudette profiles as a versatile depth forward with some offense.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,025,431 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
1 year, $3,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
16 goals, 29 points, 13:00 ATOI, plus-1, 72 GP
A healthy scratch more often than not for the Oilers during the playoffs, Skinner did manage to score 16 goals during the regular season. That’s a sign he can still make use of the lethal shot that made him a perennial 30-goal man in the past. There are some defensive concerns with Skinner’s game, but he can still bring value if deployed properly.
Contract projection
1 year, $2,570,314 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Washington Capitals
Previous contract
1 year, $1,250,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
15 goals, 25 points, 12:52 ATOI, plus-2, 81 GP
Beauvillier has quite a collection of sweaters in his closet after playing for six teams in the past three years. He went from Long Island to Vancouver to Chicago to Nashville to Pittsburgh to Washington. A skilled winger with decent puck-handling skills, he didn’t find much post-deadline success with the Capitals and will likely need to find another new home.
Contract projection
3 years, $3,218,350 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
1 year, $900,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
16 goals, 36 points, 12:24 ATOI, minus-4, 71 GP
The veteran winger scored 15 even-strength goals for Columbus last season, which is a sign that the hands are still there. He’s a big guy who has the ability to get to the net and find a way to put the puck home from in close once he arrives. A good pro who is closing in on 1,100 career games, van Riemsdyk is a positive influence for younger players.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,050,500 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Dallas Stars
Previous contract
2 years, $2,250,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
20 goals, 40 points, 13:32 ATOI, plus-1, 80 GP
Not particularly big or adept at winning puck battles, Dadonov does his damage when the puck is on his stick in the offensive zone. The veteran winger has a good shot and hit the 20-goal mark again for Dallas this season. The goals did dry up for him in the playoffs, but he’s viewed as a useful complementary piece.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,254,163 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Minnesota Wild
Previous contract
2 years, $3,185,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 28 points, 16:51 ATOI, minus-24, 79 GP
The veteran winger plummeted back to earth after a dream season in 2023-24, when he racked up 75 points for Nashville. That total fell to 28 in a campaign split between the Predators and Wild. Nyquist is a talented playmaker who remains a strong skater and seems like a plausible bet to deliver a season that falls somewhere between the extremes of his last two.
Contract projection
2 years, $3,239,360 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Vegas Golden Knights
Previous contract
1 year, $1,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
13 goals, 30 points, 14:49 ATOI, minus-8, 72 GP
Saad made a big bet on himself in late January, walking away from more than $5 million in guaranteed salary to mutually terminate a contract with St. Louis before ultimately signing for much less with Vegas. His results with the Golden Knights were so-so. Still, Saad is clearly a motivated athlete who plays a power game and can chip in with some offense.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,588,050 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Toronto Maple Leafs
Previous contract
1 year, $873,770 with $626,230 bonuses
2024-25 stats
5 goals, 13 points, 13:30 ATOI, minus-2, 37 GP
Injuries have been an issue for Pacioretty, including last season, but the veteran winger still showed he had plenty of game in the playoffs for Toronto. Not only was he incredibly physical, but he also showed he’s got the hands needed to make offensive plays. A return to the Leafs is possible here.
Contract projection
1 year, $920,620 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
San Jose Sharks
Previous contract
3 years, $3,400,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
15-26-4, 3.71 GAA, .875 save percentage
Just two years removed from being the Avalanche’s No. 1 goaltender, Georgiev has seen his game hit rock bottom. He was statistically among the worst NHL performers at the position this season and saw Colorado dump him to San Jose amid his struggles. Still, Georgiev is only 29, and in a diluted market, he may find someone to take a flier.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,957,750 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Ottawa Senators
Previous contract
3 years, $2,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11-12-3, 2.72 GAA, .901 save percentage
The veteran produced encouraging numbers in 30 appearances for Ottawa and should be able to find a No. 2 job on the open market. He has a fair amount of experience built up over the past few seasons.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,690,350 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Winnipeg Jets
Previous contract
6 years, $3,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
10 goals, 22 points, 13:14 ATOI, minus-12, 79 GP
Sacrificing for the team seems to run in the family, and Chris Tanev’s younger brother finished the season with the second-most blocked shots among all NHL forwards. He’s known for a grinding game that wears on opponents. Tanev is also a proficient penalty killer who scored 10 even-strength goals in a year he split between Seattle and Winnipeg.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,210,825 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Pittsburgh Penguins
Previous contract
1 year, $2,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
1 goal, 40 points, 20:37 ATOI, minus-6, 82 GP
While there are some obvious limitations with a 5-foot-10 defenseman who isn’t particularly well-suited to withstanding a physical game, Grzelcyk makes a killer breakout pass. That helped propel him to a career-high 39 assists in Pittsburgh this season. Grzelcyk is also an excellent skater and can transport the puck on his own.
Contract projection
3 years, $3,770,948 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Montreal Canadiens
Previous contract
4 years, $3,400,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 29 points, 14:18 ATOI, minus-2, 81 GP
An effective skater for a man of his size, Armia is known for his defensive instincts and consistent 200-foot play. He’s also a solid penalty killer who scored three short-handed goals for Montreal last season. Ultimately, Armia is a low-maintenance bottom-sixer who won’t break the bank.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,537,695 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Washington Capitals
Previous contract
1 year, $1,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 27 points, 12:22 ATOI, minus-7, 80 GP
A big winger who found himself scratched a couple of times in the playoffs, Raddysh is still carving out a defined role as an NHLer. His size is an asset, and he has the skill to become a nice complementary fit, but he doesn’t project as a major point producer. At 27, there’s still room for him to grow.
Contract projection
3 years, $2,648,533 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Utah Mammoth
Previous contract
2 years, $2,100,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
8 goals, 19 points, 12:19 ATOI, minus-2, 66 GP
Reliable right-shot centers who can fill a depth role always have value. Bjugstad is a steady play driver who profiles as an ideal bottom-six utilityman, but he saw his production dip last year in Utah.
Contract projection
2 years, $2,325,425 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
New York Islanders
Previous contract
1 year, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
4 goals, 19 points, 23:21 ATOI, minus-11, 35 GP
After starting last season in Russia, DeAngelo found his way to the Islanders and produced better than 0.5 points per game over 35 games. That has been DeAngelo’s career in a nutshell: He’s a consistent point producer and power-play quarterback who is extremely well-traveled. A player with a 40-point season and two 50-point campaigns under his belt, some questions remain about DeAngelo’s off-ice maturity. But there’s little debate about his ability to shoot and move the puck.
Contract projection
1 year, $2,053,250 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Vegas Golden Knights
Previous contract
1 year, $1,800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
16-9-4, 2.82 GAA, .891 save percentage
A veteran goalie who has ridden the highs and lows throughout the years, Samsonov performed reasonably well as the No. 2 man in Vegas last season. He produced 0.6 goals saved above expected in 29 appearances and won 16 games. He’s still young enough for a team to believe it can help him find a little more stability. Plus, it’s not a particularly deep goaltending market.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,995,950 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Washington Capitals
Previous contract
2 years, $2,450,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
10 goals, 22 points, 13:17 ATOI, minus-5, 80 GP
What you see is what you get from the 16-year NHL veteran. Eller is a steady depth center who remains proficient in the faceoff dot and can be counted on defensively in five-on-five situations. He kills penalties, too. His resume features 112 games of playoff experience and includes a Stanley Cup win with Washington in 2018.
Contract projection
1 year, $2,134,425 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
1 year, $2,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 18 points, 14:41 ATOI, minus-28, 75 GP
Another bottom-six forward option who plays hard at both ends of the ice. Kunin can chip in a bit offensively and has plenty of experience as a penalty killer. The right shot has made strides in the faceoff dot as well.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,782,030 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Montreal Canadiens
Previous contract
6 years, $4,450,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
12 goals, 33 points, 15:15 ATOI, minus-5, 82 GP
Dvorak is coming off the first season of his career where he played all 82 games, which is significant given the number of health issues that had plagued him previously. While his offensive impacts are minimal, Dvorak has shown himself to be a strong faceoff man and penalty killer, making him an ideal bottom-six fit.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,765,689 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
San Jose Sharks
Previous contract
3 years, $2,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
3 goals, 9 points, 17:15 ATOI, minus-3 54 GP
The big right-shot defenseman profiles as a stay-at-home type who can be used to kill penalties. He brings championship pedigree as a two-time Stanley Cup winner with Tampa Bay earlier in his career.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,522,270 AAV
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
1 year, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
1 goal, 9 points, 9:49 ATOI, plus-4, 59 GP
Fresh off lifting the Stanley Cup in Florida, Nosek has plenty of experience playing on high-end teams. He’s a fourth-line utilityman who is solid in the faceoff dot. His offensive impact is extremely limited, though.
Contract projection
1 year, $775,000 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Utah Mammoth
Previous contract
2 years, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 19 points, 11:26 ATOI, minus-7, 53 GP
Small and skilled, Carcone exploded for 21 goals two seasons ago in Arizona following a long stretch in the AHL. That number dipped to seven goals last season as his shooting percentage got cut in half. Still, he’s an interesting buy-low candidate for teams in search of offensive depth.
Contract projection
1 year, $965,285 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Toronto Maple Leafs
Previous contract
1 year, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
8 goals, 19 points, 10:33 ATOI, plus-6, 80 GP
A big vibes guy, Lorentz brings plenty of energy on and off the ice. The big man doesn’t shy away from puck battles and profiles as a fourth-line crash-and-banger. He does a nice job staying on the right side of the line, though, as evidenced by the fact that he took just three minor penalties in 80 games this past season.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,448,229 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
4 years, $2,500,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 17 points, 11:46 ATOI, minus-4, 82 GP
A checking-line center who isn’t afraid to use the body, Kuraly is a meat-and-potatoes player. He kills penalties and is strong in the faceoff circle. He also brings the intangibles of having been part of some long playoff runs in Boston earlier in his career.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,497,440 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Minnesota Wild
Previous contract
2 years, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
11 goals, 22 points, 11:52 ATOI, minus-9, 76 GP
Another giant depth forward at 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, Brazeau traveled the long road to the NHL and has earned a raise on his league-minimum $775,000 contract. Brazeau is a hard-working player who doesn’t hesitate to finish his checks. He’s coming off a career-best 11 goals, too.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,485,025 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Buffalo Sabres
Previous contract
1 year, $1,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
10-10-2, 3.04 GAA, .896 save percentage
Seven teams and 15 seasons into his career, Reimer just keeps going and going and going. In fact, the steady goaltender delivered slightly above-average results in 22 appearances for the Buffalo Sabres last season. Reimer is a reasonable depth insurance policy as a capable No. 3 option.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,143,613 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous contract
1 year, $1,100,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
9 goals, 21 points, 14:23 ATOI, minus-6, 61 GP
An undersized forward who didn’t reach the NHL until age 28, Danforth is a battler with some offensive touch. He’s also willing to throw his body around, as needed, making him well-suited for fourth-line duty.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,453,510 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
3 years, $2,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 14 points, 10:25 ATOI, minus-6, 62 GP
A prototypical fourth-line center, Sturm’s game has no flash to it, but the veteran is a smart two-way player who excels away from the puck — and he just added a second Stanley Cup ring to his collection as a depth player for the Panthers. Sturm is also elite in the faceoff dot, which makes him an affordable specialist target for teams looking to improve around the margins.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,424,144 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Los Angeles Kings
Previous contract
2 years, $2,665,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
7 goals, 13 points, 11:01 ATOI, even, 67 GP
The 24-goal season he had for Nashville in 2021-22 should be considered the outlier, not the norm. Still, Jeannot is a hard-hitting winger who brings his teammates into the battle and doesn’t back down from a challenge.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,423,453 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Boston Bruins
Previous contract
1 year, $775,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
10 goals, 17 points, 11:15 ATOI, plus-1, 73 GP
Koepke’s got a dangerous shot that has made him a multiple-time 20-goal man in the AHL, but it’s not yet clear to what degree it can translate at the NHL level. Koepke’s footspeed is a question mark, but he did score 10 goals in 73 games for the Bruins this past season.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,378,873 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Seattle Kraken
Previous contract
2 years, $800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
9 goals, 16 points, 10:37 ATOI, plus-1, 77 GP
A good forechecker who holds his own in puck battles, Eyssimont is a solid depth forward. He displays good on-ice awareness and can chip in with a few points here and there, too.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,348,540 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
St. Louis Blues
Previous contract
5 years, $3,250,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
5 goals, 15 points, 13:01 ATOI, minus-2, 70 GP
A shutdown forward who can be trusted in bottom-six duty, Faksa is typically reliable in the faceoff dot and as part of the penalty kill. While he doesn’t bring much offensive pop at even strength, he’s an experienced player that’s been through some long playoff runs in the past.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,337,531 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Boston Bruins
Previous contract
1 year, $800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
1 goal, 7 points, 18:02 ATOI, minus-10, 55 GP
Wotherspoon isn’t a particularly big man, but he makes a mark on the game with his ability to join the rush and find teammates with a reliable first pass. He’s an excellent skater who maintains a calm temperament.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,335,939 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
New Jersey Devils
Previous contract
2 years, $1,350,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
4 goals, 10 points, 10:56 ATOI, minus-4, 59 GP
A big forward known for getting in on the forecheck and winning puck battles, Bastian’s size can be deployed effectively on specialty teams, as well. His high-water mark offensively was 11 goals four seasons ago.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,324,267 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Minnesota Wild
Previous contract
3 years, $1,200,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
2 goals, 6 points, 14:06 ATOI, minus-8, 70 GP
A depth defenseman who gets around the ice pretty well, Merrill has carved out a long career based largely on his positional awareness and ability to be a stopper. As a bonus, he’s a left shot who is comfortable playing either side.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,282,883 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Calgary Flames
Previous contract
2 years, $787,500 AAV
2024-25 stats
2 goals, 9 points, 18:35 ATOI, plus-12, 53 GP
What he lacks in size, he makes up for in speed and mobility. The veteran defenseman is a reasonably good puck handler who can fit nicely in a third pairing or No. 7 role. Hanley played last season on a league-minimum contract.
Contract projection
2 years, $1,162,713 AAV
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Edmonton Oilers
Previous contract
1 year, $1,000,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
6 goals, 14 points, 11:55 ATOI, minus-22, 67 GP
His play in the first couple of games of the Stanley Cup Final alone should be enough to get Kapanen another job. Not only did he throw his body around for the Edmonton Oilers, but he also made some nice offensive plays. The biggest question with Kapanen is always consistency. He has all of the tools to be an effective player.
Contract projection
1 year, $936,431 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Chicago Blackhawks
Previous contract
2 years, $3,750,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
2 goals, 10 points, 15:38 ATOI, minus-18, 54 GP
Bought out by the Chicago Blackhawks, Brodie may be down to his last chance. The veteran defenseman has seen his game slip considerably the last two seasons but played to such a high level at his peak that he may be worth a look at a bargain contract. He was a high-end skater and efficient puck mover in his day.
Contract projection
Not available
Defenseman
Left-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Hershey Bears (AHL)
Previous contract
2 years, $2,062,500 AAV
2024-25 stats
Did not play in NHL
A veteran of 275 career NHL games who didn’t appear in one at that level last season, Bear is a buy-low candidate. The right-shot defenseman did have a solid year with AHL Hershey. He is a mobile puck-mover and entering his age-28 season, so he may be worth taking a flier on.
Contract projection
Not available
Defenseman
Right-shot defenseman
Team at end of 2024-25
Ottawa Senators
Previous contract
1 year, $800,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
6 goals, 15 points, 11:54 ATOI, minus-1, 50 games
A fourth-line agitator with a Stanley Cup ring, Cousins is the kind of player who understands his role. He plays a gritty game and has delivered the odd big moment during his NHL career, too. Cousins loves to stir the pot and gets under an opponent’s skin.
Contract projection
1 year, $1,091,005 AAV
Team at end of 2024-25
Abbotsford Canucks (AHL)
2024-25 stats
Did not play in NHL
Fresh off a Calder Cup-winning season with the Abbotsford Canucks, Blais looks poised to take a step back to the NHL. He was a disruptive, hit-finishing force during a campaign spent entirely in the AHL and opened some eyes during a playoff run in which he produced 19 points in 23 games for Abbotsford.
Team at end of 2024-25
Florida Panthers
Previous contract
3 years, $3,400,000 AAV
2024-25 stats
5-14-4, 3.62 GAA, .884 save percentage
The biggest headlines he made during a Stanley Cup run with Florida came when he stared down Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner in warmups. Still, Vanecek got the experience of training with Panthers star Sergei Bobrovsky every day while trying to rebuild his game. His lateral movement and reflexes are both areas of strength.
Contract projection
1 year, $875,417 AAV
(Illustration: Demetrius Robinson / The Athletic, with photos of Brad Marchand, Mitch Marner and John Tavares by Claus Andersen, Bruce Bennett and Leila Devlin / Getty Images)