As of early August, the NHL's free agency period has generated considerable movement among teams as executives seek to finalize rosters for the upcoming season. Commencing on July 1, this window has seen many franchises pursue players whose additions could dramatically alter the trajectory of their respective teams. Numerous agreements valued in the hundreds of millions have been struck, shaping the competitive landscape of the league. However, a substantial number of restricted and unrestricted free agents continue to remain unsigned, prompting analysts to identify players who may be worth targeting by teams looking to bolster their lineups.

Among the players still available, Matt Grzelcyk stands out as a reliable option, particularly in a league where many teams seek dependable defensemen. The 31-year-old endured a challenging season with the Pittsburgh Penguins but emerged as one of the few bright spots, achieving a career-high 40 points while averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. Following a contract valued at $2.75 million for the 2024-25 season, Grzelcyk's experience and capability as a left-shot defenseman make him an attractive prospect for teams in need of solid defensive support.

Another name of interest is Luke Kunin. Drafted 15th overall by the Minnesota Wild in 2016, Kunin has not been recognized as a franchise-changing player, with a career-best of 15 goals to date. At 27 years old, he has played for four different teams over his first nine NHL seasons. However, his recent performance with the Columbus Blue Jackets late in the 2024-25 season, as evidenced by his favorable advanced statistics, gives teams reason to consider him for a bottom-six role at a potentially lower cost than his previous contracts, each valued at $2.75 million per season.