As the NHL's free agency period kicked off on July 1, team executives engaged in a flurry of activity, seeking players who could potentially transform their franchises. Numerous contracts were signed, totaling in the hundreds of millions, with many deals expected to have an immediate impact on the league’s competitive environment. Despite this, a substantial pool of both restricted and unrestricted free agents remains available, prompting sports analysts to evaluate which players could be the most beneficial for teams willing to explore potential additions.

In a league where many teams are in need of reliable defensive talent, Matt Grzelcyk emerges as a noteworthy candidate. The 31-year-old defenseman stood out amidst a challenging season for the Pittsburgh Penguins, recording a career-high of 40 points while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. Grzelcyk played the 2024-25 season on a one-year, $2.75 million contract after concluding a four-year, $14.75 million deal with the Boston Bruins, who originally selected him in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft. For teams seeking a competent left-shot defenseman, Grzelcyk may be a viable option worth considering.

Another player to consider is Luke Kunin, though he is not typically viewed as a franchise-changing asset. Drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2016, Kunin has yet to surpass 15 goals in a season and has suited up for four different franchises in his nine-year NHL career. At just 27 years old, Kunin finished the 2024-25 season with encouraging advanced statistics in Columbus, particularly in terms of shots attempted differential and expected goals differential at even strength. With a previous annual salary of $2.75 million, Kunin is likely to be available at a more economical rate, making him an appealing option for teams in need of depth in their bottom six.

For teams looking for a potential high-reward acquisition, Evgeny Kuznetsov could be an intriguing choice. The 33-year-old forward is not past his prime, boasting a history of success with eight seasons of double-digit goal totals, including a peak of 27 goals with the Washington Capitals during their 2017-18 Stanley Cup-winning campaign. However, Kuznetsov's recent years have been tumultuous, which included time in the league’s Player Assistance Program in 2024 and a contract termination with Carolina that led to a season in Russia’s KHL. Reports indicate that Kuznetsov is keen to return to North America, and his 173 career NHL goals hint at his potential contribution as a middle-six forward for a team willing to take a chance on him via a risk-free, incentive-laden contract.

Mason McTavish, entering restricted free agency after the completion of his three-year, entry-level deal, is another name to watch. At 22 years old, McTavish's value is complicated, as teams cannot simply sign him without compensation due to his status with the Anaheim Ducks. However, interested teams might explore offer sheets or leverage trade talks to acquire him. McTavish's scoring has improved steadily, netting 17, 19, and then 22 goals in successive seasons, with a career-high of 52 points last season, making him a valuable target for any team prepared to meet his reported contract demands, which are expected to exceed $5 million per year.

Another prominent scorer among the remaining restricted free agents is Jack Roslovic, a former first-round draft pick (25th overall in 2015), who has consistently demonstrated his offensive capabilities. Roslovic has achieved a career-best of 22 goals last season while playing for the Carolina Hurricanes, where he earned $2.8 million. Over his career, which spans stints with the Hurricanes, Winnipeg Jets, Columbus Blue Jackets, and New York Rangers, he has showcased versatility as a forward capable of skating at both center and wing positions. Although Roslovic has experienced multiple team changes, at 28 years old, his advanced metrics highlight his effectiveness in recent seasons.

Lastly, Marco Rossi stands out as the youngest and most promising player still on the restricted free agent market. Selected ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2020, Rossi has seen his performance progress over two full NHL seasons, scoring 21 and 24 goals as well as increasing his point total from 40 to 60. He also contributed significantly on the power play, with seven goals and 16 total points. The 23-year-old, poised to negotiate a contract in the range of $6 million to $7 million annually, presents an opportunity for teams that can either extend an offer sheet or entice Minnesota into negotiations. If successful, the acquiring team would gain a player known for his high hockey IQ and ability to produce in key moments on the ice.