The NHL’s free agency season has given way to calm, with team executives clearing their minds as training camps approach. Although the group of unrestricted free agents is limited, several players could have a significant impact on their new teams.
According to PuckPedia, almost all NHL teams, except for seven, have at least $1 million available to spend on their rosters. In addition, eleven teams, from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Carolina Hurricanes, passing through the Pittsburgh Penguins, have more than $10 million in salary cap space. This is without counting the space that could be generated through trades, such as the recent move by the Vancouver Canucks.
Below, a look at some of the most prominent unrestricted free agents and the impact they could have with a new team. All contract information is courtesy of PuckPedia.
Forwards
Jack Roslovic, C Age: 28 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.8 million
Roslovic is possibly the most attractive player left in free agency. Last season, he played 81 games with the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring 22 goals and 17 assists. He is a player who provides immediate offense, although his defense is a weak point.
He has been linked to the Maple Leafs, the Capitals, and the Canucks.
Max Pacioretty, LW Age: 36 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $873,770
Pacioretty is in the “journeyman” phase of his career, but he can still contribute. After injuries ruined his time in Carolina, he played in Washington and Toronto. His performance in the playoffs with the Leafs could convince a team to give him another contract to create offensive opportunities.Max Pacioretty has played for four teams in the last four seasons.
Victor Olofsson, RW Age: 30 years old | Salary impact 2024-25: $1.075 million
Olofsson scored 15 goals last season with the Vegas Golden Knights. He has a good shot and can contribute on the power play. It’s surprising that he hasn’t found a new team yet, given his skills.
Robby Fabbri, F Age: 29 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $4 million
Fabbri arrived in Anaheim after his best goal-scoring season. Although injuries limited him to 44 games last season, when he is healthy, he can produce offensively. His salary is expected to be significantly lower.
Joel Kiviranta, F Age: 29 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $775,000
Kiviranta is a fourth-line forward who averaged 12:31 minutes of ice time last season. He scored 16 goals for the Avalanche in a secondary role. His biggest drawback is his performance in the playoffs.
Luke Kunin, F Age: 27 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million
Kunin had a solid performance with the Sharks, but he was also among the worst forwards in terms of expected goals above replacement.
Defenses
Matt Grzelcyk, D Age: 31 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million
Grzelcyk is a power play creator, with one goal and 39 assists last season with the Penguins. His agent is looking for “the best fit” for him in terms of money, time, and opportunity.Matt Grzelcyk had 40 points last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Jan Rutta, D Age: 34 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $2.75 million
Rutta, Stanley Cup champion with Tampa Bay, is still on the free agent market.
Calvin de Haan, D Age: 34 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $800,000
De Haan, who only played three games with the Rangers, is a depth defender with solid defensive metrics.
The wild card
Evgeny Kuznetsov, C Age: 33 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $7.8 million
Kuznetsov, whose contract was terminated by the Hurricanes, is looking to return to the NHL. His agent has said that they are not demanding in terms of team and finances.
Contract Terminations
T.J. Brodie, D Age: 35 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $3.75 million
Brodie was bought by the Blackhawks. He could be considered a depth defenseman.
Marc-Edouard Vlasic, D Age: 38 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $7 million
Vlasic, whose contract was terminated by the Sharks, hopes to play in the 2025-26 season.
The Goalkeepers
Ilya Samsonov, G Age: 28 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $1.8 million
Samsonov is an average backup goalie.
James Reimer, G Age: 37 years old | 2024-25 Cap Hit: $1 million
Reimer is looking to join his sixth NHL team in six seasons.
Alexandar Georgiev, G Age: 29 years old | Salary Cap Hit 2024-25: $3.4 million
Georgiev, who had a disappointing performance last season, could find a new team that believes in him.
