The NHL's free-agency period commenced on July 1, leading to a flurry of activity among team executives eager to secure talents capable of altering the trajectory of their franchises. Over the course of the month, numerous contracts worth substantial sums were finalized, positioning several players as significant additions for various teams. However, a considerable number of unrestricted and restricted free agents remain on the market, prompting analysis on which players could make a considerable difference if acquired.

One player drawing attention is Matt Grzelcyk, a left-shot defenseman who has proven dependable in the past. At 31 years of age, Grzelcyk was a standout on a struggling Pittsburgh Penguins team last season, recording a career-high 40 points while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. Previously, he played for the Boston Bruins, where he was selected as a third-round pick in the 2012 NHL Draft and earned $2.75 million on a one-year contract. His skill set suggests that he could be a valuable addition for a team in search of defensive reinforcement.

Luke Kunin, drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2016, is another intriguing name. Not traditionally regarded as a marquee player, Kunin's career has been marked by mobility among four teams over nine seasons. At just 27 years of age, he showcased notable advanced statistics while with the Columbus Blue Jackets at the end of the 2024-25 season, particularly in his even-strength shot differentials. His recent salary of $2.75 million is likely negotiable, making him a potential low-cost asset for teams seeking a solid contributor on their bottom lines.

Evgeny Kuznetsov represents a high-risk, high-reward option for teams willing to take a chance. The 33-year-old has an impressive resume as an eight-time double-digit goal-scorer, including a peak season with 27 goals for the Washington Capitals during their 2017-18 Stanley Cup run, complemented by 12 playoff goals. However, his path has been rocky, including a period spent in the league's Player Assistance Program and a contract termination by the Carolina Hurricanes, leading to a season in the KHL. Reports suggest Kuznetsov is keen to return to the NHL, and with 173 career goals, he could serve as an impactful middle-six forward on an incentive-laden contract.

Mason McTavish presents another compelling case as a restricted free agent following the conclusion of his entry-level contract. At 22 years old, he has steadily improved his goal output from 17 to 22 goals across two seasons. Among his achievements, McTavish recorded a career-high 52 points last season, making him an appealing target for teams who may craft an offer sheet to secure his services, particularly given his reported contract expectations of over $5 million annually. Meanwhile, Jack Roslovic, a former first-round pick and two-time 20-goal scorer currently at 28 years old, also remains available. His offensive versatility makes him an attractive option, illustrated by a solid performance with the Carolina Hurricanes, where he played for $2.8 million before transitioning to the New York Rangers in a trade at the 2024 deadline.

As one of the youngest restricted free agents available, Marco Rossi has shown considerable potential since being drafted ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2020. With offensive production increasing from 21 goals to 24 and from 40 to 60 points, his trajectory indicates significant promise. His recent performance included seven goals and three game-winning goals, as he demonstrated adeptness in high-pressure scenarios. Rossi is reportedly seeking between $6 million to $7 million per year, making him a viable candidate for a team willing to extend an offer sheet or engage the Wild in trade discussions.