NHL Free Agency Big Board: Ranking Top Players into Tiers

Mitch Marner, C, Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 28 | 2024-25 cap hit: $10,903,000

Mitch Marner`s recent post-season comments, where he remained non-committal about his future, fuel speculation that his time with his hometown team, the Maple Leafs, may be ending. Drafted fourth overall in 2015, Marner has spent his entire nine-year career in Toronto, but a change of scenery seems increasingly likely. He`s frequently a scapegoat for the team`s playoff struggles and is poised for a substantial payday in free agency, making leaving more appealing than ever.

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 his 138 goals are the fewest among this elite group, Marner excels defensively compared to many, with his 14 shorthanded points over that period matching Selke Trophy winner Aleksander Barkov.

Marner`s regular-season points-per-game rate over the last five years is 1.26, but this drops to 0.93 in the playoffs. Despite having 42 points in 48 playoff games, his postseason performance has been criticized as `passive,` with former NHL player Jordan Schmaltz famously saying Marner bails out of physical plays in the playoffs like he has a `parachute` on his back.

These factors make Marner a complex acquisition. His talent is undeniable, but his consistency and “will” in high-pressure playoff moments are questioned annually. Which team will pursue him, and at what price?

Reports once suggested the Leafs considered an eight-year deal worth $13.5 million annually, which would have topped Auston Matthews` salary ($13.25 million) on the team. For comparison, Mikko Rantanen, who would have been a top UFA before re-signing, earns $12 million per year over eight years in a tax-friendly state.

The Carolina Hurricanes reportedly attempted to trade for Marner using Rantanen, but Marner`s full no-movement clause prevented it, a decision made entirely understandable by the birth of his son in May. With cap space and a need for offense, Carolina could renew their interest.

Teams on the rise like the Anaheim Ducks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Utah Mammoth have been linked to Marner. The idea of playing in Chicago, potentially feeding passes to Connor Bedard, might appeal if he desires an Original Six connection.

Teams known for making big offseason moves, such as the Florida Panthers and Vegas Golden Knights, have also been speculated, along with teams like the Los Angeles Kings and New York Islanders who might seek a significant addition. There`s even talk of a reunion with former Leafs GM Kyle Dubas in Pittsburgh; if Marner struggles with playoff intensity, having Sidney Crosby as a mentor for a couple of seasons could be invaluable.

All this speculation assumes Marner departs Toronto. While it appears likely, the fundamental truth of NHL free agency remains: sometimes players simply stay where they are comfortable.

Sam Bennett, C, Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $4.425 million

Sam Bennett is often seen as the opposite of Marner; his primary value comes from his tenacious, win-at-all-costs playoff approach, which often involves significant physical play. Bennett is a reliable performer in the regular season, contributing 25 goals and 26 assists this past season for the Panthers, alongside 90 penalty minutes.

He`s expected to command a high salary this summer. He could be sought after by a team needing a final piece for a championship push or by a developing team looking for a Stanley Cup-winning veteran to help teach them how to take the next step.

Many believe another team will outbid the Panthers for Bennett, but two key factors exist: he enjoys playing in Florida, and GM Bill Zito recognizes Bennett`s crucial role in their playoff success and his dynamic partnership with Matthew Tkachuk. Both sides have engaged in contract discussions during the season.

Brock Boeser, RW, Vancouver Canucks

Age: 28 | 2024-25 cap hit: $6.65 million

Interest in signing Boeser might be stronger outside Vancouver than within the Canucks organization itself, which has seemed uncertain about retaining him. He is coming off a 40-goal season and has alleviated concerns about his ability to stay healthy and play a full schedule.

Speculation heavily links the Burnsville, Minnesota native to the Wild, but potential contenders like the Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils shouldn`t be overlooked as suitors.

Nikolaj Ehlers, LW/RW, Winnipeg Jets

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $6 million

Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff has successfully challenged the notion that players don`t want to sign in Winnipeg, having recently re-signed Mark Scheifele, Connor Hellebuyck, and Neal Pionk. Ehlers represents his latest challenge.

Cheveldayoff stated, “We`ll make our strongest effort with him to try and make our case for him to be a unique Jet-for-life type of player.”

Ehlers, a consistent offensive producer, boosted his case for a free-agent raise with his best points-per-60-minutes average (3.5) in five years this season. He is a dynamic offensive force, but availability is a concern, as he has played over 70 games in only one of the last four seasons and has also missed time in the playoffs.

Aaron Ekblad, D, Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $7.5 million

Conventional wisdom suggested that after acquiring Seth Jones from the Blackhawks, the Panthers would likely let their former number one defenseman, Aaron Ekblad, walk in free agency. However, GM Bill Zito has maintained that the team could still retain Ekblad, even with Jones adding a $7 million cap hit to their defense and other contractual obligations (like a potential Bennett deal).

With options like Jakob Chychrun signing an extension before free agency (eight years, $72 million with Washington), Ekblad stands out as the top big-name defenseman available, and he brings the added bonus of a Stanley Cup ring. Despite a season shortened by a 20-game suspension for violating the league`s performance-enhancing substances policy, he recorded 33 points and averaged 23:31 of ice time in 56 games.

Brad Marchand, LW, Florida Panthers

Age: 37 | 2024-25 cap hit: $6.125 million

Brad Marchand`s value has been clearly demonstrated since the Panthers acquired him from the Bruins. He has provided veteran grit and energy to their bottom six forwards, while occasionally stepping up to play alongside Aleksander Barkov. His production has been solid, with 13 points in 16 playoff games.

As coach Paul Maurice noted, the Panthers needed a player with Marchand`s outspoken personality and willingness to engage with the media to alleviate pressure on some of the team`s quieter stars.

If he doesn`t remain in Sunrise, there will be plenty of teams interested in his winning experience, though salary and contract length will be key negotiation points. While the idea of Marchand signing with the Maple Leafs, a team he`s tormented for years, is fascinating, he recently revealed he cheered for the Leafs as a child growing up in Halifax.

Brock Nelson, C, Colorado Avalanche

Age: 33 | 2024-25 cap hit: $6 million

Nelson was one of several players added by the Avalanche at the trade deadline in moves that ultimately didn`t help them advance past Dallas in the first round. He registered six goals and seven assists in 19 regular-season games for the Avs but was held scoreless in four of their seven playoff games against Dallas.

Was the fit strong enough for him to pursue an extension in Colorado, or will Nelson explore other destinations where his versatile skillset could earn him a longer contract?

John Tavares, C, Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 34 | 2024-25 cap hit: $11 million

In contrast to Mitch Marner`s uncertainty about his future, John Tavares left no doubt about his desire to remain in Toronto after their playoff exit, essentially declaring his intent to stay and “make it work.”

The question for the Leafs is whether they can bring him back at a suitable salary, or if Tavares becomes another player sacrificed to alter the roster composition after their playoff disappointment. One intriguing possibility is Utah, which could benefit from both a high-profile free agent signing and a veteran presence down the middle.

Matt Duchene, C, Dallas Stars

Age: 34 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $3 million

Matt Duchene has found a great fit in Dallas, and the Stars have benefited significantly from him. He was arguably one of the best value signings last offseason, agreeing to a one-year, $3 million deal before putting up 82 points in 82 games – his best offensive season since 2021-22 with Nashville. His playoff production in 16 games was less impressive, with only one goal and five assists.

Given the limited number of veteran unrestricted free agent scorers with his track record, there might be temptation for him to test the market. However, Duchene could follow the path of other older veterans, taking a series of short-term deals to remain with a team he enjoys playing for.

Vladislav Gavrikov, D, Los Angeles Kings

Age: 29 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $5.875 million

Gavrikov just completed the two-year contract he signed with former GM Rob Blake in 2023. The situation is interesting because Blake is no longer the GM, with Ken Holland now leading the Kings. Gavrikov had a strong defensive season with Los Angeles and also contributed offensively with 30 points (five goals, 25 assists), his second-highest total in his six NHL seasons. He performed well when paired with either Mikey Anderson or Jordan Spence.

Based on his play, the Kings should look to re-sign Gavrikov. But if his asking price is too high for Ken Holland`s plans for the rest of the roster, other teams will be eager to add him to their blue line.

Claude Giroux, C, Ottawa Senators

Age: 37 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $6.5 million

Unless something unexpected happens, Claude Giroux is likely to extend his time with the Senators before free agency opens. He recorded 50 points in 81 games this past season, his third in Ottawa, helping the team make the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons. There`s every indication he will remain a Senator next season, but if he were to become available, he still possesses enough offensive capability to help a team.

Yanni Gourde, C, Tampa Bay Lightning

Age: 33 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $5,166,666

Yanni Gourde was highly sought after at the trade deadline as a reliable checking center with Stanley Cup experience. He ultimately returned to the Tampa Bay Lightning from the Seattle Kraken, where he had tallied 14 points in 21 games, though he was not a significant factor in five playoff games.

GM Julien BriseBois has indicated the team acquired Gourde with the intention of keeping him beyond this season. However, as Steven Stamkos`s situation shows, this usually depends on the Lightning`s economic constraints, which may not align perfectly with Gourde`s contract desires.

Mikael Granlund, C, Dallas Stars

Age: 33 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $5 million

Mikael Granlund was one of GM Jim Nill`s excellent acquisitions this season. He was rescued from the last-place San Jose Sharks, where he had 45 points in 52 games. Granlund then recorded 21 points in 31 games for Dallas and nine in 16 playoff games, often playing on the “Finnish Mafia” line with Mikko Rantanen and Roope Hintz.

Someone will likely pay a premium for Granlund, whose increased goal production conveniently coincided with his pending free agency. However, he has consistently produced points throughout his career (with the exception of his brief stint in Pittsburgh).

Kyle Palmieri, RW, New York Islanders

Age: 34 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $5 million

Kyle Palmieri presents new Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche with an early challenge. It was clear that former GM Lou Lamoriello intended to extend the winger, keeping him through the trade deadline. This made sense, as Palmieri scored 30 goals and 24 goals over the last two seasons, and offense is not a surplus on the Islanders` roster.

Nonetheless, it`s time for New York to refresh the roster constructed by Lamoriello, which has seen diminishing returns, and Palmieri has been with the team since 2021.

Ivan Provorov, D, Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 28 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $6.75 million

Ivan Provorov is a skilled skater capable of playing significant minutes (23:21 per game) on both the power play and penalty kill. He is a very solid puck mover with excellent puck retrieval abilities. If the Blue Jackets re-sign him, he can provide a veteran anchor on their second defensive pairing behind Zach Werenski.

Columbus chose not to trade him at the deadline, and GM Don Waddell has expressed his desire to sign him this summer. If Provorov reaches the open market, Waddell won`t be the only general manager aiming to sign him.

Anthony Beauvillier, F, Washington Capitals

Age: 27 | 2024-25 cap hit: $1.25 million

This isn`t the first time Beauvillier has been highlighted in this category, but his season splitting time between the Penguins and Capitals underscored his value on an affordable contract, particularly his six points in 10 playoff games during the Caps` short run. He boasts strong underlying statistics, good production, and will only turn 28 next month.

Connor Brown, RW, Edmonton Oilers

Age: 31 | 2024-25 cap hit: $1 million

If not for the attention commanded by the other Connor in Edmonton, perhaps more people would have appreciated the solid regular season Connor Brown had for the Oilers. He scored 13 goals and added 17 assists in 82 games, finishing with a plus-9 rating while averaging 14:01 of ice time per game, all on an excellent value contract. It was his strong playoff performance—five goals and three assists in 14 games—that truly caught the eye. He is known as a hardworking, high-pace player.

Evgenii Dadonov, F, Dallas Stars

Age: 36 | 2024-25 cap hit: $2.25 million

`Daddy` had an impressive contract year, tallying 20 goals and 20 assists in 80 games. This mirrored his production in the first year of his two-year deal with Dallas. While he won`t likely return to his prime offensive numbers, Dadonov can still provide offensive strength in the regular season at the right annual average value.

Brian Dumoulin, D, New Jersey Devils

Age: 33 | 2024-25 cap hit: $3.15 million

The former Anaheim Duck was acquired by New Jersey at the trade deadline and saw increased ice time in the playoffs due to injuries on the Devils` defense. In their five-game series against Carolina, Dumoulin averaged 29:21 per game, playing over 36 minutes in two overtime contests and performing well. The two-time Cup winner with Pittsburgh can still contribute effectively in the postseason.

Dante Fabbro, D, Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 26 | 2024-25 cap hit: $2.5 million

Yes, this is the same Dante Fabbro whose placement on waivers by the Nashville Predators last season raised eyebrows. It was Nashville`s loss and Columbus`s gain, as Fabbro recorded 26 points in 62 games and finished with a plus-23 rating while often playing alongside Zach Werenski. His underlying stats confirm his effectiveness at both ends of the ice. While playing with a Norris Trophy finalist undoubtedly helps, Fabbro earned his spot with Werenski.

Matt Grzelcyk, D, Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 31 | 2024-25 cap hit: $2.75 million

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

Victor Olofsson, F, Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $1.075 million

A former Buffalo Sabres forward finding his game again after being acquired by the Golden Knights? This seems familiar. Olofsson scored 15 goals and added 14 assists on an affordable, short-term contract. He has previously demonstrated significant offensive potential when healthy.

Reilly Smith, F, Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 34 | 2024-25 cap hit: $5 million

There was a reason the Golden Knights kept Reilly Smith at the trade deadline. He is a perfectly capable depth forward who can contribute decent offensive numbers and help on both special teams. He performs well when used in an appropriate role – that is, not as a top-line winger, as the Rangers discovered.

Pius Suter, F, Vancouver Canucks

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $1.6 million

Pius Suter is on the verge of potentially commanding a higher salary, having set career highs in goals (25) and points (46) in a contract year with the Canucks. However, his goal scoring has been consistent in limited roles throughout his career, and his defensive contributions (according to analytics) are solid enough that even if his numbers dip slightly from last season, a contract increase wouldn`t be overly regrettable.

Jamie Benn, LW, Dallas Stars

Age: 35 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $9.5 million

Jamie Benn signed his eight-year contract in July 2016, and it feels like even longer ago than that, perhaps due to his 16 years with Dallas, a tenure that began when Mike Modano was still a Star. His contract has been a talking point since it was signed. While his most productive offensive years are past 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 is a Star for life, but they decided to defer extension talks until after this season. Benn`s value now lies in his leadership, physicality, and intangible contributions. However, Dallas or any team signing him needs to be cautious regarding the annual average value and contract term.

Brent Burns, D, Carolina Hurricanes

Age: 40 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $8 million

Between the beard, the ranch, and the mysterious bag, few NHL players have generated as much unique lore as Brent Burns. He also used to generate significant offense, but that production has declined sharply over the last two seasons, dropping from 61 points to 43 and then to 29 points in 82 games this season, representing the lowest points-per-60 minutes average of his career. Is this the end of Burns` playing career? He hasn`t announced retirement. However, there will always be a market for a puck-moving defenseman in the NHL who can log 20 minutes per game.

Ryan Donato, F, Chicago Blackhawks

Age: 29 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $2 million

Ryan Donato had an exceptional contract-year performance this past season, setting new career highs with 31 goals and 31 assists in 80 games for the Blackhawks. Discussions about a new deal were ongoing around the trade deadline, and the Hawks decided not to move him, indicating they view him as part of their future. Developing chemistry with Connor Bedard certainly helps his case. The key questions now are how to translate that into a contract and whether Donato can replicate this production in a non-contract year.

Jonathan Drouin, F, Colorado Avalanche

Age: 30 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $2.5 million

Jonathan Drouin rediscovered his offensive game with the Colorado Avalanche, who acquired him with encouragement from his former junior hockey teammate Nathan MacKinnon. It was a positive story. Less positive was the fact that injuries again plagued him this past season. He recorded 37 points in 43 games, proving effective when in the lineup. The challenge is his ability to stay healthy and consistently be in the lineup.

Patrick Kane, RW, Detroit Red Wings

Age: 36 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $4 million

We almost placed `Showtime` in the `best bets` category given how he exceeded expectations on his incentive-laden, one-year contract with Detroit last season, scoring 21 goals and totaling 38 points in 72 games. He played effectively alongside longtime linemate Alex DeBrincat and responded well after Detroit hired Todd McLellan as coach. The concern with Kane remains his defensive game; analytics showed he was the weakest defensive forward on the Red Wings.

Andrei Kuzmenko, F, Los Angeles Kings

Age: 29 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $5.5 million

Andrei Kuzmenko fit in very well with the Kings after being acquired from the Flyers. He appeared to be the linemate Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe had been seeking. Assuming new GM Ken Holland shares this view, valuing that fit in terms of average annual value and contract length will be interesting. If Holland doesn`t see it the same way, Kuzmenko could be moving to his fifth team in three seasons, his offensive flair and power-play skill making him an appealing, albeit perhaps risky, addition.

Ryan Lindgren, D, Colorado Avalanche

Age: 27 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $4.5 million

The Rangers traded the 27-year-old defenseman to the Avalanche at the trade deadline. He is a reliable defensive defenseman who can complement a puck-moving partner, much like he did with Adam Fox in New York. However, at this stage in Lindgren`s career, it seems almost guaranteed that he will either play through injuries or miss time because of them.

Dmitry Orlov, D, Carolina Hurricanes

Age: 33 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $7.75 million

Dmitry Orlov surprised many during the last free agency period by signing a short-term, high-average-annual-value contract with the Hurricanes. He saw a slight increase in offensive production this season but remained just above replacement level defensively. Orlov has been particularly inconsistent in his own zone during the playoffs. While Carolina could let him depart, there`s likely value in keeping Orlov to partner with and mentor rookie Alexander Nikishin, who shows significant promise.

Jeff Skinner, LW, Edmonton Oilers

Age: 33 | 2024-2025 cap hit: $3 million

What was anticipated to be one of the NHL`s best value signings last offseason didn`t quite pan out 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 taste of postseason action in his 15-year career. Skinner is only two seasons removed from a 35-goal campaign with Buffalo.

Jonathan Toews, C

Age: 37 | 2022-23 cap hit: $10.5 million

We know the player Jonathan Toews was for the Blackhawks: a Selke Trophy-winning captain who led them to three Stanley Cups and won a Conn Smythe, a player who was still putting up points (31 in 53 games) deep into Chicago`s rebuild. What remains uncertain is the type of player he is now, having 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, from his hometown Winnipeg Jets to the championship-hungry Maple Leafs, and even the Oilers, where his former GM Stan Bowman is now employed.

Jake Allen, New Jersey Devils

Age: 34 | 2024-25 cap hit: $3.85 million

Jake Allen outperformed Jacob Markstrom during the regular season, posting a higher save percentage (.908), more goals saved above expected (8.75), and matching his shutout total (four). The Devils value their goaltending depth, and GM Tom Fitzgerald has mentioned negotiating to bring Allen back. However, given the other options available in the free agent goalie market, another team might offer more than the Devils are willing to spend.

Alexander Georgiev, San Jose Sharks

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $3.4 million

Formerly the starter for the Colorado Avalanche, Georgiev was traded to the Sharks in the Mackenzie Blackwood deal. His performance didn`t improve significantly in San Jose, where he recorded minus-13.7 goals saved above expected in 31 games. GM Mike Grier has already informed Georgiev that he will not be returning to the Sharks next season.

Alex Lyon, Detroit Red Wings

Age: 32 | 2024-25 cap hit: $900,000

One of five goalies used by the Red Wings this season, Lyon played 30 games for Detroit, finishing 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.

Ilya Samsonov, Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 28 | 2024-25 cap hit: $1.8 million

Signed to an affordable contract as a backup to Adin Hill, Samsonov had a second consecutive season with a save percentage below .900, accompanied by a minus-7.85 goals saved above expected.

Vitek Vanecek, Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | 2024-25 cap hit: $3.4 million

A former starter with the Devils, Vanecek split his time this season between the Sharks and Panthers. His performance for both teams was not particularly strong.

Dan Vladar, Calgary Flames

Age: 27 | 2024-25 cap hit: $2.2 million

Dustin Wolf`s outstanding rookie season was complemented by 30 games of average goaltending from Vladar, who remains a dependable, if not spectacular, tandem goalie option.