NHL Free Agency Big Board: Ranking Top Players

Marner`s recent noncommittal remarks regarding his future in Toronto have intensified speculation that his nine-year tenure with his hometown team, who drafted him fourth overall in 2015, may be ending. A change could be beneficial; Marner has often been the target of blame for the franchise`s playoff struggles, and he`s poised for a substantial free agency payday. The motivation to explore other opportunities has never been higher.

Over the last five seasons, only six players have accumulated more points than Marner`s 450 in 357 games: Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, Artemi Panarin, and David Pastrnak. While Marner`s 138 goals are the lowest among this group, his defensive contributions are notably stronger than many of his peers. His 14 shorthanded points during this period tie him with Aleksander Barkov, a frequent Selke Trophy recipient.

Marner`s regular-season points-per-game rate over the past five years is 1.26, dropping to 0.93 in the playoffs. Despite accumulating 42 points in 48 playoff games, his postseason play has been criticized as “passive” and worse. One former NHL player famously suggested Marner avoids physical contact in the playoffs as if he has a “parachute” on his back.

These points highlight the complexity of acquiring Marner. His skill is undeniable, but his consistency and willingness in crucial moments are debated annually. Which teams are willing to take on this dynamic and what is his value? Reports once suggested the Leafs considered an eight-year, $13.5 million per season deal, which would have surpassed Auston Matthews` annual salary. For context, Mikko Rantanen, who signed with Dallas, commands $12 million annually over eight years in a state without income tax.

The Carolina Hurricanes reportedly attempted to trade for Marner, offering Rantanen, but Marner, possessing a full no-movement clause and expecting a child in May, declined – a perfectly understandable decision. The Hurricanes have the cap space and need to revisit their interest. Rising teams like the Anaheim Ducks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Utah Mammoth have been linked to Marner. If he desires a taste of the Original Six, playing in Chicago and passing to Connor Bedard would be appealing. Teams known for big offseason moves such as the Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights, along with potential suitors like the Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders, have been speculated. There`s even buzz about a reunion with former Leafs GM Kyle Dubas in Pittsburgh; if Marner struggles with playoff hockey, having Sidney Crosby as a mentor wouldn`t be the worst situation for a few seasons.

This discussion assumes Marner departs Toronto, which appears likely, but the enduring free agency rule is: his belongings are still there.

Sam Bennett is often seen as the antithesis of Marner; his primary value lies in his intense, win-at-all-costs playoff performances, frequently involving significant physical engagement. Bennett is a reliable contributor in the regular season, evidenced by his 25 goals and 26 assists this year for the Panthers, alongside 90 penalty minutes.

He is expected to command a high salary this summer, potentially from a team looking for the final piece of a championship puzzle or seeking a seasoned Stanley Cup winner to guide a developing team. It`s widely anticipated that other teams will offer more than the Panthers can match, but remember two key factors: Bennett is happy in Florida, and GM Bill Zito recognizes his crucial role in their postseason success and his dynamic partnership with Matthew Tkachuk. The team has engaged in contract discussions with Bennett during the season.

There`s likely more interest in signing Boeser from outside Vancouver than within the Canucks organization itself, which has sent mixed signals regarding his retention. He`s coming off a 40-goal season and has eased concerns about his ability to stay healthy and play a full schedule.

Speculation is strong that the Minnesota native might end up with the Wild, but keep an eye on potential suitors such as the Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils.

Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff has successfully countered the notion that “no one wants to sign in Winnipeg,” having recently extended key players like Mark Scheifele, Connor Hellebuyck, and Neal Pionk. Ehlers represents his next challenge. Cheveldayoff stated, “We`ll put our best foot forward with him to try to make our case to be a unique Jet-for-life-type player.”

A consistent offensive threat, Ehlers bolstered his free agency prospects with his best points per 60 minutes average (3.5) in five years. He is a significant offensive force, but his availability is a factor, as he has played over 70 games in only one of the past four seasons and has also missed playoff time.

Conventional wisdom suggested that after acquiring Seth Jones from the Blackhawks, the Panthers might allow their longtime top defenseman, Aaron Ekblad, to leave in free agency. However, GM Bill Zito has maintained that retaining Ekblad is still possible, even with Jones adding $7 million to the defense corps and the Panthers needing to address other contracts (like Bennett`s potential new deal).

With other high-profile defensemen like Jakob Chychrun signing extensions before free agency (eight years, $72 million with Washington), Ekblad stands out as the premier big-name defenseman available, and one who has won a Stanley Cup. He posted 33 points and averaged 23:31 of ice time in 56 games this season, which was shortened by a 20-game suspension for violating the league`s performance-enhancing substances policy.

Brad Marchand`s impact since being acquired by the Panthers from the Bruins has been the best advertisement for his value. He has added veteran intensity to their bottom six, occasionally joining Aleksander Barkov`s line. He has also produced offensively, with 13 points in 16 playoff games. Coach Paul Maurice noted that the Panthers needed a player as outspoken and media-savvy as Marchand to alleviate pressure on some of the team`s quieter stars.

If he doesn`t remain in Sunrise, numerous teams will be interested in adding his winning background, though contract salary and term will be critical factors. A fascinating potential next chapter? Marchand signing with the Maple Leafs, the team he has tormented for years. He has recently admitted to cheering for the Leafs during his childhood in Halifax.

Brock Nelson was one of several players the Avalanche acquired at the trade deadline in an attempt to push past Dallas in the opening round, which ultimately failed. Nelson recorded six goals and seven assists in 19 regular-season games for the Avs but was held scoreless in four of their seven playoff contests against Dallas.

Was his fit with Colorado strong enough for him to seek an extension, or will Nelson explore other destinations to offer his versatile skills and potentially secure a longer contract term?

While Mitch Marner was guarded about his future in Toronto, veteran center John Tavares was anything but, strongly indicating his desire to remain with the team after their playoff exit. “I`ve expressed my desire to stay and wanting to make it work,” he stated.

Will the Leafs bring him back at a suitable price point, or will Tavares be another player sacrificed in the effort to alter the team`s composition following their playoff disappointment? A compelling potential destination is Utah, which could benefit from both a high-profile free agent signing and a seasoned presence down the middle.

Duchene has found a strong fit in Dallas, and the Stars have benefited greatly from him. He was one of the best value signings last offseason, agreeing to a one-year, $3 million deal before recording 82 points in 82 games, his most productive season since 2021-22 with Nashville. His playoff production was less stellar, with only one goal and five assists through 16 games.

Given the limited availability of veteran unrestricted free agent scorers with his pedigree, there might be temptation to explore opportunities elsewhere. However, Duchene could follow the trend of other veterans in the latter stages of their careers, opting for a series of shorter deals to remain with a team he enjoys.

Gavrikov recently completed a two-year contract signed with former general manager Rob Blake in 2023. The key difference now is that Ken Holland has taken over as GM in Los Angeles. Gavrikov had a solid defensive season with the Kings and contributed 30 points (five goals, 25 assists), the second-highest total of his six-year career. He performed effectively when paired with either Mikey Anderson or Jordan Spence.

Based on his performance, the Kings should aim to re-sign Gavrikov. However, if his desired contract is too expensive within Holland`s plans for the rest of the roster, other teams will readily add him to their defense.

Unless something unexpected occurs, Giroux is expected to extend his time with the Senators before free agency opens. He recorded 50 points in 81 games last season, his third with Ottawa, helping the team reach the playoffs for the first time in eight years. There`s little reason to believe he won`t remain a Senator next season, but if he does become available, he still possesses enough offensive skill to help a team.

Coveted at the trade deadline as a prime checking center with Stanley Cup pedigree, Gourde was reacquired by the Lightning from the Seattle Kraken. He tallied 14 points in 21 games for Seattle but was less effective in five playoff games. GM Julien BriseBois stated that the team acquired Gourde with the intention of keeping him long-term. However, as Steven Stamkos` situation illustrates, re-signing often depends on the Lightning`s economic strategy, which might not align with Gourde`s market value.

Mikael Granlund was one of several excellent moves made by Stars GM Jim Nill this season. Rescued from San Jose where he posted 45 points in 52 games, Granlund scored 21 points in 31 games for Dallas and then nine in 16 playoff games, often playing on the effective “Finnish Mafia” line with Mikko Rantanen and Roope Hintz.

Someone is likely to overpay for Granlund, whose increased goal scoring coincided with his contract year. However, he has demonstrated the ability to produce points consistently throughout his career (with the exception of his time in Pittsburgh).

Kyle Palmieri presents one of the initial challenges for new Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche. It was clear that former GM Lou Lamoriello intended to extend the winger, opting not to trade him at the deadline. There`s merit to keeping him: Palmieri scored 30 and 24 goals respectively over the past two seasons, and offense is not abundant on the Islanders roster. That said, it`s time for New York to refresh the roster built by Lamoriello, which has yielded diminishing returns, and Palmieri has been part of that group since 2021.

Provorov is a strong skater capable of contributing on both the power play and penalty kill, while logging significant minutes (23:21 per game). He is a reliable puck mover with excellent puck retrieval abilities. If the Blue Jackets retain him, he could serve as a veteran anchor on their second defensive pairing behind Zach Werenski. Columbus kept him at the trade deadline, and GM Don Waddell has expressed a desire to sign him this summer. If Provorov hits the open market, Waddell won`t be the only general manager interested.

Beauvillier has been in this value tier before, and his recent season with the Penguins and Capitals reinforced his potential impact on a budget contract, particularly his six points in 10 playoff games during Washington`s brief run. He boasts solid underlying numbers, consistent output, and will still be only 27 next month.

Had it not been for the other Connor in Edmonton drawing most of the attention, Connor Brown`s regular season for the Oilers might have received more recognition. He tallied 13 goals and 17 assists in 82 games, achieving a plus-9 rating while averaging 14:01 of ice time, all on a highly favorable contract. His playoff performance, with five goals and three assists through 14 games, finally garnered significant attention. He is known as a hard-working, pace-setting player.

Evgenii “Daddy” Dadonov had an impressive contract year, scoring 20 goals and adding 20 assists in 80 games, matching his average production from the first year of his two-year deal with Dallas. While he may not reach the offensive numbers of his prime, Dadonov can still be a valuable offensive contributor in the regular season at the right average annual value.

Brian Dumoulin, a former Anaheim Duck, was acquired by New Jersey at the trade deadline and saw increased ice time due to injuries to the Devils` defensive corps in the playoffs. In their five-game series against Carolina, Dumoulin averaged 29:21 of ice time per game, including over 36 minutes in two overtime contests, and performed effectively. The two-time Stanley Cup winner with Pittsburgh still proves valuable in the postseason.

Yes, this is the Dante Fabbro who prompted many to question why the Nashville Predators placed him on waivers last season. Nashville`s loss was Columbus`s gain, as Fabbro recorded 26 points in 62 games with the Blue Jackets, finishing with a plus-23 rating while partnering with Zach Werenski. Underlying statistics support his strong performance at both ends of the ice. While playing alongside a Norris Trophy finalist certainly helps, Fabbro earned his role with Werenski.

The former Boston Bruins defenseman had a quietly effective season for the Penguins, contributing one goal but 39 assists, 24 of which came at even strength. While defense has never been his primary strength, he was offensively solid in both traditional and analytical metrics.

Could it be? Another former Buffalo Sabres forward acquired by the Golden Knights and finding his game again? Olofsson scored 15 goals and added 14 assists on a very cost-effective “show me” contract. He has previously demonstrated significant offensive potential when healthy.

The Golden Knights had a good reason for running it back with Reilly Smith at the trade deadline. He is a perfectly capable depth forward who can contribute decent offense and participate on both special teams. He is effective when utilized correctly, meaning not as a top-line winger, as the Rangers learned.

Pius Suter is on the verge of potentially receiving an inflated contract after setting career highs in goals (25) and points (46) during his contract year with the Canucks. However, his goal scoring has been consistent in limited roles throughout his career, and his contributions away from the puck are solid according to analytics. Even a dip from last season`s numbers would likely not make a new contract based on a multiplier of his cap hit regrettable.

Jamie Benn signed his eight-year contract in July 2016, but it feels like much longer ago than that, partly due to his 16-year tenure with Dallas (he was a rookie when Mike Modano was still a Star), and partly because the contract was debated from day one. While Benn`s peak offensive production is behind him, he still managed 49 points in 80 games this season in a reduced role, averaging under 16 minutes of ice time for the past three seasons.

GM Jim Nill has stated Benn will be a Star for life, but they decided to postpone extension talks until after this season. Benn`s value lies in his leadership, physicality, and intangible qualities. However, Dallas or any team signing him will need to be cautious regarding the average annual value and term.

From the beard to the ranch and the mysterious bag, few NHL players have generated the kind of mystique surrounding Brent Burns. He was also once an offensive powerhouse, but his production has sharply declined over the past two seasons, falling from 61 points to 43 points and then 29 points in 82 games this season, his lowest points per 60 minutes average of his career. Is this the end of the line for Burns? He hasn`t indicated. However, there will always be a market for a puck-moving defenseman capable of logging 20 minutes per game in the NHL.

Ryan Donato experienced a remarkable contract-year surge last season, achieving new career bests with 31 goals and 31 assists in 80 games for the Blackhawks. He was in discussions with Chicago about a new deal around the trade deadline, and the team opted not to move him, suggesting they view him as part of their future plans. Having chemistry with Connor Bedard likely doesn`t hurt. The questions now are how to quantify this production in a contract and whether Donato can replicate this performance outside of a contract year.

Jonathan Drouin rediscovered his offensive game with Colorado, who acquired him partly with the encouragement of his junior hockey teammate Nathan MacKinnon. It was a positive story, though it was tempered by the fact that he once again dealt with injuries last season. He recorded 37 points in 43 games, demonstrating effectiveness when healthy and in the lineup. The crucial phrase remains: when he`s in the lineup.

Patrick “Showtime” Kane could almost be in the “best bets” tier given how well he performed above his incentive-laden, one-year deal with Detroit last season, scoring 21 goals and totaling 38 points in 72 games. He played effectively with longtime linemate Alex DeBrincat and responded positively after Detroit hired Todd McLellan as coach. The concern with Kane remains his defensive play, where analytics showed him as the weakest defensive forward on the Red Wings.

Andrei Kuzmenko fit seamlessly with the Kings after being acquired from the Flyers, appearing to be the player Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe had been missing on their line. Assuming new GM Ken Holland shares this view, valuing his contribution in terms of average annual value and contract term will be interesting. If Holland does not, Kuzmenko could be joining his fifth team in three seasons, with teams tantalized by his offensive flair and power-play expertise.

The Rangers traded the 27-year-old defenseman to the Avalanche at the trade deadline. Lindgren is a reliable defensive defenseman who could complement a puck-moving partner, much like he did with Adam Fox in New York. However, at this point in his NHL career, it seems almost certain that he will either play through injuries or miss time due to them.

Dmitry Orlov surprised many when he signed a short-term, high-salary contract with the Hurricanes during the last free agency period. He saw a slight uptick in offensive production this season but remained only slightly above replacement level defensively. Orlov has been particularly inconsistent in his own end during the playoffs. While the Hurricanes could let him walk, there is likely value in keeping him to partner with and mentor rookie Alexander Nikishin, who shows significant promise.

What was anticipated to be one of the best value signings in the NHL last offseason didn`t quite materialize for Jeff Skinner and Edmonton. He scored 16 goals and added 13 assists in 72 games, averaging just 12:60 of ice time. He did appear in one playoff game against the Kings, marking his first postseason action in his 15-year career. Skinner is two seasons removed from a 35-goal campaign with Buffalo.

We know the caliber of player Jonathan Toews was for the Blackhawks: a Selke Trophy winner, a captain with three Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe, who was still producing points (31 in 53 games) deep into Chicago`s rebuild. However, his current status is unknown, as he last played in April 2023 before stepping away from the NHL for health and personal reasons. Toews has expressed interest in returning to play, fueling speculation about a comeback with various teams, including his hometown Winnipeg Jets, the championship-hungry Maple Leafs, or the Oilers, where his former GM Stan Bowman now works.

Jake Allen outperformed Jacob Markstrom during the regular season, boasting a higher save percentage (.908), more goals saved above expected (8.75), and the same number of shutouts (four). The Devils are reportedly pleased with their goaltending situation, and GM Tom Fitzgerald has discussed negotiating to bring Allen back. However, given the other options available in the free agent goaltending market, another team might be willing to offer more than the Devils.

Alexander Georgiev, formerly the starter for the Colorado Avalanche, was sent to the Sharks in the Mackenzie Blackwood trade. His performance didn`t significantly improve there, recording minus-13.7 goals saved above expected in 31 games for San Jose. GM Mike Grier has already informed Georgiev that he will not be returning with the Sharks next season.

Alex Lyon was one of five goalies utilized by the Red Wings this season, playing 30 games with an .896 save percentage and a 14-9-1 record. His goals saved above expected metric was slightly below average at minus-1.63.

Signed to a cost-effective deal as a backup to Adin Hill, Ilya Samsonov had a second consecutive season with a save percentage below .900, along with a minus-7.85 goals saved above expected.

Vitek Vanecek, a former starter for the Devils, split the season between the Sharks and Panthers and did not perform particularly well for either team.

Dustin Wolf`s impressive rookie season was complemented by 30 games of average goaltending from Dan Vladar, who remains a reliable option as a tandem goalie, though perhaps not much more.