Top NHL Free Agents Still Available: Impact Players Teams Should Consider

Explore the top remaining NHL free agents and their potential impact on teams as the free agency period continues.

The NHL free agency period has seen a flurry of activity, but there are still some impactful players available. Here’s a look at the top unrestricted free agents and how they could benefit teams looking to bolster their rosters.

The Forwards

Jack Roslovic, C

  • Age: 28
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.8 million Jack Roslovic is the most tantalizing player left in free agency. Last season, he played 81 games for the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring 22 goals and 17 assists. Known for his instant offense, Roslovic could be a valuable addition to teams like the Maple Leafs, Capitals, or Canucks.

Max Pacioretty, LW

  • Age: 36
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $873,770 Max Pacioretty, a seasoned veteran, has played for four teams in the past four seasons. Despite injuries, he showed his worth in the postseason with the Leafs, making him a potential asset for contending teams.

Victor Olofsson, RW

  • Age: 30
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $1.075 million Victor Olofsson scored 15 goals last season with the Vegas Golden Knights. His ability to play with top centers and contribute on the power play makes him a valuable free agent.

Robby Fabbri, F

  • Age: 29
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $4 million Robby Fabbri, despite injuries, has shown he can produce offensively. Teams looking for depth scoring might consider him, though his salary expectations are lower than his previous $4.25 million.

Joel Kiviranta, F

  • Age: 29
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $775,000 Joel Kiviranta is a reliable fourth-line forward who generated 16 goals last season. While his postseason performance has been lacking, he remains a solid depth option.

Luke Kunin, F

  • Age: 27
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million Luke Kunin had a solid run with the Sharks but struggled after being traded to Columbus. He could still help a team’s bottom six if he finds the right fit.

The Defensemen

Matt Grzelcyk, D

  • Age: 31
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million Matt Grzelcyk had a standout season with the Penguins, especially on the power play. His ability to move the puck and create offense makes him a valuable asset.

Jan Rutta, D

  • Age: 34
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million Jan Rutta, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, has been steady for the Sharks. His experience and defensive skills could benefit teams looking for a reliable defenseman.

Calvin de Haan, D

  • Age: 34
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $800,000 Calvin de Haan is a depth defenseman with solid defensive metrics. He’s looking for a team to give him the opportunity to prolong his career.

The Wild Card

Evgeny Kuznetsov, C

  • Age: 33
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $7.8 million Evgeny Kuznetsov, once a dynamic offensive talent, is looking to return to the NHL after a stint in the KHL. Teams willing to take a chance on him could find a valuable contributor.

The Buyouts

T.J. Brodie, D

  • Age: 35
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $3.75 million T.J. Brodie, recently bought out by the Blackhawks, might still find a role as a depth defenseman with a playoff contender.

Marc-Edouard Vlasic, D

  • Age: 38
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $7 million Marc-Edouard Vlasic, a former Norris Trophy contender, is hoping to continue his career after being bought out by the Sharks.

The Goalies

Ilya Samsonov, G

  • Age: 28
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $1.8 million Ilya Samsonov is an average backup goalie who could provide stability for teams in need of goaltending depth.

James Reimer, G

  • Age: 37
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $1 million James Reimer, a reliable journeyman, is hoping to join his sixth NHL team. His experience could be valuable for teams needing a backup goalie.

Alexandar Georgiev, G

  • Age: 29
  • 2024-25 Cap Hit: $3.4 million Alexandar Georgiev, despite a tough season, has shown he can be a starting goalie. Teams might take a chance on him to rediscover his form.

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