NHL Free Agency Update: Key Players Remain Available

As the NHL free agency period commenced in early July, a noteworthy wave of activity characterized the opening days. Top-tier players such as Brock Boeser, Vladislav Gavrikov, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Mikael Granlund found new homes promptly. However, the market for unrestricted free agents has not been entirely depleted, with quality names still waiting for contracts. The restricted free agent segment has also begun to garner attention, indicating that the dynamics of the free agency landscape are evolving. As the free agency period nears the three-week mark, several significant players remain available, and the outcomes of a few negotiations are yet to be determined.
Among the most notable remaining free agents is center Jack Roslovic, who concluded a solid regular season with the Carolina Hurricanes. At 28 years old, his performance prior to the playoffs included impressive statistics, with a total of 39 points and 22 goals over 81 games. Despite falling out of the lineup during the postseason, Roslovic's potential for a more secure, long-term contract this offseason may explain his current unsigned status. Reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggest that the Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest in Roslovic. In addition, the Vancouver Canucks, after trading Dakota Joshua and clearing some cap space, have entered discussions with Roslovic's representatives. Given their previous consideration of Roslovic last offseason—prior to choosing Jake DeBrusk—it's plausible that the Canucks may secure a deal with him in the near future.
Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, who recently spent a year with the Pittsburgh Penguins, has also caught the attention of teams in the ongoing free agency. Although Grzelcyk is regarded as undersized at 5'10" and 180 pounds, he displayed considerable competitiveness, registering a career-high 40 points in the past season while contributing effectively on the power play. Despite hopes to continue with the Penguins, recent statements indicate that he is unlikely to return and will explore new opportunities as a free agent. With the Penguins shifting their focus by signing Parker Wotherspoon and Caleb Jones, Grzelcyk's skill set positions him as a valuable depth option for teams seeking to strengthen their roster. The Colorado Avalanche may consider him as a complement to their existing defensive setup, while the Los Angeles Kings might explore adding him as a replacement for the departed Gavrikov. Furthermore, a return to the Boston Bruins, where Grzelcyk spent his first eight seasons, appears to be a logical scenario.
Additionally, the goaltender market has thinned significantly this offseason, leaving few quality options available. Ilya Samsonov stands out as a prominent player still on the market, following a respectable 16-9-4 record with the Vegas Golden Knights. After joining the Golden Knights on a one-year deal, Samsonov's performance, however, waned towards the end of the season, as he did not make an appearance in the playoffs. His stock has seemingly diminished, with suggestions that he may need to adjust his contract expectations to attract interest. Despite a decent overall season, the presence of Adin Hill and Akira Schmid in net for the Golden Knights likely diminishes the chances of Samsonov returning. Potential suitors could include the Pittsburgh Penguins, who may value his veteran experience behind emerging talent Joel Blomqvist, or the Calgary Flames, who could seek additional depth at the goaltender position behind Dustin Wolf. The Edmonton Oilers may also consider bolstering their goaltending depth but might first explore trade options. The situation remains fluid, and Samsonov may opt for a prolonged search for the right opportunity.








