The 7 Free Agents Who Could Shake Up the NHL
With most of the 2025 free agents signed, attention shifts to 2026. A rising salary cap promises enormous deals for stars who reach the market. Though many could sign extensions, some high-profile names are poised to reshape the NHL if they explore free agency and field offers.
Connor McDavid
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The Oilers captain, Connor McDavid, is eligible for a short-term extension this fall after leading Edmonton to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances. His next contract is expected to surpass all current NHL deals. McDavid’s elite production continues to set the standard for offensive dominance in today’s game.
Kirill Kaprizov
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Minnesota Wild superstar Kirill Kaprizov could command a contract north of $14 million per season. His point production places him consistently among the NHL’s elite. Kaprizov is the most impactful player the franchise has ever had, and Minnesota now has the financial flexibility to keep him long-term.
Jack Eichel
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Jack Eichel, Vegas center, has bounced back from career-threatening surgery to reclaim his spot among the game’s best. Eichel’s 94-point season helped power the Golden Knights deep into the playoffs. His next contract should reflect his continued status as one of hockey’s premier two-way forces.
Kyle Connor
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Few wingers can match the consistent scoring Kyle Connor has delivered for Winnipeg. Only five players have scored more goals over the past four seasons. With his current contract nearing its end, Connor’s decision could come down to whether the Jets finally achieve postseason success.
Artemi Panarin
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Since joining the New York Rangers in 2019, Artemi Panarin has been one of the league’s most dangerous forwards. Panarin racked up 49 goals and 120 points this past season. Even at 34, he’s expected to draw interest if he chooses to test free agency again.
Sergei Bobrovsky
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Florida’s veteran goalie Sergei Bobrovsky continues to perform when it matters most. His playoff consistency has kept the Panthers competitive. Despite turning 36, Bobrovsky remains among the most dependable postseason goalies and could secure another multi-year deal to stay in South Florida beyond his current contract.
Adrian Kempe
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The Kings have seen Adrian Kempe develop into a top-scoring threat. Kempe has produced 35 or more goals in three of the last four seasons. His bargain contract at $5.5 million is nearly up, and his next deal will reflect his steady rise among NHL wingers.
Alex Ovechkin
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Even at 40, Alex Ovechkin remains a major storyline for Washington. He has already earned more than $160 million in his career. With the all-time goals record still in his sights, his next decision could be retirement, a return to Russia, or a final NHL extension.
Anthony Stolarz
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Goaltender Anthony Stolarz has given Toronto plenty to consider. Despite battling injuries, Stolarz ranks sixth in goals saved above expected across the past three seasons. Another strong campaign could make him a top target in free agency, especially with his size and efficiency standing out.
Filip Gustavsson
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Filip Gustavsson is Minnesota’s starting goalie, and he continues to prove he belongs among the league’s top netminders. Gustavsson’s numbers may not lead the league, but his workload and reliability position him well for a significant payday if his upward trajectory holds steady through this coming season.
Anze Kopitar
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Anze Kopitar has a way with the Kings. He’s still one of the league’s most respected leaders, and his defensive skills and offensive production remain elite. Los Angeles values him highly, so it’s likely that he will retire having played for only one NHL team.
Alex Tuch
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Buffalo forward Alex Tuch continues to raise his profile as a power forward with scoring touch. Tuch’s combination of size (6′4″, 215 lb) and skill makes him a valuable asset in today’s NHL. He posted 36 goals and 67 points in the 2024–25 season. His next contract is expected to surpass his current $4.75 M cap hit.
Martin Necas
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After a breakout season, Martin Necas now finds himself on Colorado’s roster with big expectations. His speed and creativity make him a dynamic top-six forward. In the 2024–25 regular season, he scored 83 points (27 goals, 56 assists) across 79 games—ranking 19th in NHL scoring—and posted a +5 plus/minus rating. A strong showing with the Avalanche could boost his value ahead of a possible payday when he hits free agency.
John Carlson
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Veteran defenseman John Carlson remains a fixture in Washington’s blue line plans. Carlson has anchored the Capitals’ defense for years by contributing offensively while logging big minutes. His next deal could hinge on Washington’s direction, as they evaluate whether to rebuild or push for another playoff run.
Mike Matheson
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Montreal’s blueline relies heavily on Mike Matheson, who logged major minutes this past season. Matheson’s skating and playmaking have made him one of the Canadiens’ most valuable players. His next move could shape Montreal’s defensive future for years to come.