As the NHL free agency period opened on July 1, a flurry of activity among team executives commenced, highlighting the urgency to secure players who could significantly alter the dynamics of their franchises. With numerous contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars agreed upon, many of these deals were viewed as potentially transformative in the competitive landscape of the league. However, despite this initial rush, a considerable number of noteworthy free agents remain unattached. The Moneyline team has analyzed these players to identify those who could be most impactful for teams willing to take a chance on them.

In a league where many teams are in search of reliable defensemen, Matt Grzelcyk stands out as a viable option. Aged 31, Grzelcyk shone as one of the few positives on a struggling Pittsburgh Penguins team last season, achieving a career-high 40 points while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. He played the 2024-25 season on a one-year, $2.75 million deal following a four-year, $14.75 million contract with the Boston Bruins, who had originally selected him in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft. For teams in need of a competent left-shot blue liner, Grzelcyk represents an intriguing possibility.

While Luke Kunin may not be viewed as a franchise player, he remains an attractive free agent option at just 27 years old. Drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2016, Kunin has yet to exceed 15 goals in a season but has played a versatile role across four teams over nine seasons. His recent statistics from the Columbus Blue Jackets' lineup during the 2024-25 season caught the attention of advanced metrics analysts, showcasing positive contributions in shots attempted differential and expected goals differential per 60 minutes at even strength. Having earned $2.75 million per season in recent contracts, Kunin is likely to be available at a more affordable price point now, making him a potential asset for teams requiring quality bottom-six forwards.

For teams willing to take a risk, Evgeny Kuznetsov presents an intriguing but controversial option. At 33 years old, Kuznetsov is no stranger to scoring, having registered double-digit goals in multiple seasons, including a standout 27 goals with the Washington Capitals in the 2017-18 season, accompanied by 12 playoff goals on their way to a Stanley Cup victory. However, his recent career trajectory had its challenges, including a stint in the league's Player Assistance Program in 2024 and a year spent in Russia's KHL following a contract termination with the Carolina Hurricanes. Reports suggest Kuznetsov is keen on returning to North America, and with a total of 173 NHL goals, he could offer a valuable middle-six presence for a team open to a risk-free, incentive-laden contract.

Mason McTavish, who ended his three-year entry-level contract at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, is now a restricted free agent. At just 22 years old, he cannot be easily acquired by other teams unless they pursue an offer sheet that might compel the Anaheim Ducks to negotiate or relinquish him for draft picks. McTavish's progression, scoring 17, 19, and then 22 goals in consecutive seasons, reflects his growth as a player. His 52 points last season marked a career high and ranked second on his team, making him a tantalizing target for other teams willing to meet his reported contract demands, which reportedly exceed $5 million annually.

Jack Roslovic, the most prolific point-scorer among available restricted free agents, was drafted 25th overall in 2015 and has had several promising seasons, including a career-high 22 goals last season with the Carolina Hurricanes. Having previously played for the Winnipeg Jets and Columbus Blue Jackets, Roslovic's track record includes success while managing a $2.8 million salary. His versatility as a forward capable of playing both center and wing, combined with positive advanced analytics during his tenures with various teams, positions him as an appealing option for franchises looking to bolster their middle six.

Lastly, Marco Rossi, the youngest player on the restricted market, was selected ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2020. With goal totals of 21 and 24 in his past two NHL seasons, along with notable improvements in point production, Rossi’s potential is evident. Last season, he added seven goals and 16 power-play points, coupled with three game-winning goals. As with McTavish, Rossi's status as a restricted free agent implies that a team must consider crafting an offer sheet to acquire him or leverage the possibility of one to initiate trade negotiations. With reported contract expectations ranging from $6 million to $7 million per year, Rossi could offer considerable upside, as he demonstrates a high hockey IQ and an ability to exploit opportunities on the ice.