As the NHL's free agency period kicked off on July 1, team executives engaged in a flurry of negotiations aimed at acquiring players who could significantly alter the dynamics of their franchises. With dozens of contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars agreed upon, many transactions were perceived as immediately influential in shaping the league's competitive landscape. However, a substantial number of players remain unsigned, comprising a vast pool of both restricted and unrestricted free agents. The Moneyline team has examined these players to identify those who may provide the most benefit to interested teams willing to explore their options.

Among the notable names available is Matt Grzelcyk. The 31-year-old defenseman showcased his skills during a challenging season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he emerged as a highlight on a struggling team. Grzelcyk achieved a career-high 40 points while averaging more than 20 minutes of ice time per game. He recently played on a one-year, $2.75 million contract after finishing a four-year, $14.75 million deal with the Boston Bruins, the organization that selected him in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft. His capability as a dependable left-shot blue liner may attract teams in need of defensive support.

On a different note, Evgeny Kuznetsov presents an intriguing option for team decision-makers. At 33 years old, Kuznetsov is not past his prime and has consistently demonstrated scoring potential in the NHL, highlighted by a career-best 27 goals with the Washington Capitals in the 2017-2018 season, along with 12 playoff goals during their Stanley Cup journey. However, his recent trajectory has been more tumultuous, including a stint in the Player Assistance Program in 2024 and a subsequent termination of his contract by the Carolina Hurricanes, leading him to compete in Russia's KHL. Reports suggest that Kuznetsov is keen on a return to North America, and with 173 goals to his name, he could provide valuable offensive depth if a team is willing to consider a performance-based contract.

Mason McTavish also remains an intriguing restricted free agent. Concluding a three-year, entry-level agreement at the end of the 2024-2025 season, McTavish finds himself in a position where a team cannot simply sign him away from the Anaheim Ducks without compensation. However, leveraging an offer sheet could allow another franchise to acquire him, or they may use the threat of such a move to negotiate a trade for the skilled forward. McTavish has demonstrated consistent improvement in his goal-scoring, netting 17, 19, and 22 goals over the last three seasons, with a career-high 52 points last year, making him an appealing target for teams aiming to enhance their scoring capabilities.

Another notable restricted free agent is Jack Roslovic, a forward with a strong scoring resume. Selected 25th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in the 2015 NHL Draft, Roslovic has recorded two seasons with 20 goals, matching his career-high of 22 with the Carolina Hurricanes last season. His past performance, coupled with his versatility to play both center and wing, makes him a valuable addition for teams looking to bolster their middle six. Despite his history of team transitions, including stints with the Blue Jackets, Rangers, and Hurricanes, Roslovic remains only 28 years old and possesses advanced analytical metrics that suggest he could contribute meaningfully to a new roster.

Lastly, Marco Rossi stands out among the younger restricted free agents still available. Drafted ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2020, Rossi has shown significant growth in his game, increasing his goal totals from 21 to 24 and advancing from 40 to 60 points in his two full seasons. His recent performance included seven power-play goals and three game-winners, alongside career-high averages in ice time and shooting percentage. Similar to McTavish, a GM could pursue Rossi with an offer sheet, or seek to initiate trade discussions, especially considering his desire for a contract in the range of $6 million to $7 million annually. A successful acquisition of Rossi could yield dividends, as his high hockey IQ allows him to effectively find scoring chances on the ice.