Analyzing NHLs Remaining Free Agents: Potential Impact on Team Structures

The NHL's free agency period began on July 1, leading to significant transactions as team executives sought to recruit players capable of altering the trajectory of their franchises. A multitude of agreements worth substantial sums were made, with many recognizing the potential to influence the league's competitive landscape considerably. However, a significant number of restricted and unrestricted free agents remain available, prompting thorough evaluations of the remaining players who could provide value to teams willing to consider them.

One player of interest is Matt Grzelcyk, a 31-year-old defenseman who displayed notable performance on a struggling Pittsburgh Penguins team last season. Grzelcyk recorded a career-high 40 points while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. After completing a four-year, $14.75 million contract with the Boston Bruins, where he was originally drafted in the third round of the 2012 draft, Grzelcyk signed a one-year deal worth $2.75 million. He is likely to attract teams in need of a reliable left-shot defenseman.

Luke Kunin, though not regarded as a superstar, brings potential upside. Drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2016, he has not exceeded 15 goals in a season, having played for four different teams in his nine-year NHL career. At just 27 years old, his recent performance with the Columbus Blue Jackets showcased favorable advanced statistics, indicating strengths in even-strength shots attempted differential and expected goals differential. With his previous annual salary of $2.75 million likely to decrease, he could serve as an affordable bottom-six option for teams seeking depth.

Another noteworthy name is Evgeny Kuznetsov, who at 33, remains an influential player after having achieved multiple double-digit goal seasons, including a career-high of 27 goals during the 2017-18 season with the Washington Capitals. His recent journey has included challenges, such as participating in the league's Player Assistance Program in 2024 and a contract termination by the Carolina Hurricanes, leading him to play in the KHL. Despite these hurdles, Kuznetsov has expressed interest in returning to the NHL, and his track record of 173 career goals positions him as a potential middle-six asset for teams open to a risk-free, incentive-laden contract.

Mason McTavish concluded a three-year entry-level contract at the end of the 2024-25 season, qualifying him as a restricted free agent at just 22 years old. This status means that acquiring him would require a team to offer a contract that Anaheim may have to match or risk losing him for draft compensation. McTavish has shown steady progression, increasing his goal tally from 17 to 19 to 22, and his 52 points last season marked a new career high and a strong contribution to his team's offense.

Jack Roslovic, another restricted free agent, has demonstrated his scoring capabilities as a two-time 20-goal scorer and a former first-round pick (25th overall in 2015). He matched his career-high with 22 goals last season while playing with the Carolina Hurricanes at a $2.8 million salary. Roslovic has also had tenures with the Winnipeg Jets and the Columbus Blue Jackets. At only 28 years of age, his ability to play both center and wing makes him a versatile option for teams seeking depth in the middle six, especially given his strong advanced analytics during stints in different teams.

Finally, there is Marco Rossi, the youngest remaining restricted free agent currently on the market. Drafted ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2020, Rossi has shown promise with 21 and 24 goals in his first two NHL seasons, alongside a significant increase in points from 40 to 60. His contributions on the power play, including seven goals, highlight his potential impact. Similar to McTavish, the opportunity to acquire Rossi could be available with a compelling offer sheet or amid trade negotiations, as he seeks a contract in the $6 million to $7 million range annually.

Overall, the pool of available NHL free agents presents intriguing options for teams willing to engage in negotiations, whether through crafting offer sheets or exploring trade possibilities. Each player has unique skills and circumstances that could potentially elevate a team in their pursuit of success in the league.