Following a busy initial day of free agency, where NHL general managers reportedly signed 166 contracts and committed approximately $950 million, a number of notable players are still without teams. The open market continues to see activity as clubs look to finalize their rosters for the upcoming season.
Key Forwards Still Seeking Deals
Among the forwards still available, Anthony Mantha, a right wing/left wing, is coming off a season where he registered a career-high 64 points. Mantha attributed his performance to increased confidence and a prominent role under coach Dan Muse. Despite a high shooting percentage last season, his history of injury and inconsistency may lead teams to consider shorter-term deals. Montreal, Buffalo, St. Louis, and Winnipeg are reportedly in the market for wingers.
Veteran right wing Patrick Kane, a future Hall of Famer, recorded assists last season, the most among remaining unrestricted free agents. While the Red Wings reportedly sought to retain him, Kane is said to be nearing a contract with his hometown Buffalo Sabres, potentially marking his fourth team.
Patrik Laine, a left wing, is another significant name on the market. Despite being a second-overall pick, Laine is reportedly poised to join his fourth team before his 29th birthday. He played only five games last season and did not score, suggesting a substantial pay cut is likely. Teams such as the Islanders, Kings, Lightning, Flames, and Wild are reportedly considering him.
Vladimir Tarasenko, a right wing, is expected to attract offers despite entering his mid-30s. He scored 23 goals in 75 games last season. Teams in need of scoring depth from the wings may pursue short-term deals for him.
Eeli Tolvanen, a right wing, is a younger option at 27 years old. His goal total dipped to 12 last season, and he posted a career-worst minus-18 rating. However, his skill and age make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to slot him into a middle-six role with power-play time. Tolvanen is reportedly seeking term on his next contract.
Claude Giroux, a veteran right wing, played all 82 games for Ottawa last season, recording 49 points. The Senators have expressed interest in re-signing him, but Giroux has reportedly received interest from Colorado, Montreal, and the Philadelphia Flyers. Senators GM Steve Staios indicated that the team has kept a roster spot open for Giroux.
Defencemen and Goaltenders Still Available
On the defensive side, Logan Stanley, a 28-year-old defenceman, is the youngest blueliner on the list. He recorded nine goals and 26 points last season. While Winnipeg traded him to Buffalo, the Jets could still make an offer to bring him back. Stanley is reportedly seeking a contract worth as much as $25 million over four or five years.
John Klingberg, a 33-year-old defenceman, is also available. He scored 10 goals in 56 games last season, his best showing in years, but also posted a minus-13 rating. Boston and Philadelphia are reportedly looking to strengthen their right side defence.
In goal, Cam Talbot, a 38-year-old goaltender, played 34 games last season, more than any other available netminder. His save percentage was .883. Talbot could potentially serve in a mentorship or backup role for a new team.
Meanwhile, some significant deals have already been made. The Montreal Canadiens secured Ivan Demidov for eight seasons with a $9.15 million cap hit, following his 62-point rookie season. The Flyers also signed Tyson Foerster to an eight-year deal worth $7.1 million. Detroit acquired Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year deal, and the Kings added Mats Zuccarello for $1 million. The Islanders signed Matias Maccelli for $2.25 million.
However, some deals have drawn criticism. Jacob Trouba signed a four-year deal worth $8.25 million per year with the Sharks, a price considered high for a player whose game has reportedly declined. Bowen Byram became the highest-paid defenceman in the NHL, a move that has been questioned given his role. Rasmus Andersson‘s deal with Vegas, though better than Trouba’s, is also seen as an overpayment. The Maple Leafs‘ signing of Colton Sissons for $4.25 million over two years has also been highlighted as a potentially excessive expenditure for a fourth-line centre.
The free agency period continues with many players still seeking new contracts after the initial flurry of signings on July 1.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
