The opening bell of NHL free agency on July 1 traditionally signals a financial bonanza, a period where general managers commit vast sums of money faster than a power forward hits the brakes at the blue line. This year was no exception, with reports indicating over $860 million changing hands within the first couple of days as nearly 200 players found new homes or extensions.
Yet, even after the initial rush, when most teams have filled their primary needs and perhaps splurged a bit (or a lot, depending on who you ask), a compelling group of unrestricted free agents remains on the market. These aren`t necessarily the headline-grabbing superstars, but rather players who can fill important roles, add depth, or even provide unexpected value.
Interestingly, despite the significant spending, the rising salary cap for the 2025-26 season means that a majority of NHL franchises—around 28, by recent counts—still possess cap space. This financial flexibility creates a secondary market, a waiting game where players seek the right fit and teams look for value buys, perhaps addressing needs they couldn`t or wouldn`t on day one, or simply adding competition to their roster.
Let`s look at some of the most notable names from the top remaining free agents still exploring their options:
Forwards Seeking Opportunities
Leading the pack of available forwards is **Jack Roslovic**, a 28-year-old center who can also shift to the wing. Coming off a productive regular season in Carolina where he posted 22 goals and 39 points over 81 games, his playoff performance saw him occasionally scratched, highlighting a perceived battle with inconsistency. Despite this, his speed and versatility make him an attractive option, especially given the relative scarcity of forwards under 30 on the UFA market. Recent whispers suggest interest from teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs (who finally have some cap room to play with), the Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, and Buffalo Sabres – all clubs that could benefit from a player with his offensive upside.
Another forward offering offensive punch is 29-year-old left winger **Victor Olofsson**. A victim of the cap crunch in Vegas despite scoring 15 goals and 29 points in just 56 games, Olofsson is known primarily as a power-play specialist with a dangerous shot (career shooting percentage sits north of 13%). He`s had three seasons with 20 or more goals, proving his scoring ability. Teams looking for a pure offensive injection, particularly on the man advantage, might see him as a smart value acquisition, provided they aren`t relying on him for physical play or significant defensive zone responsibilities – because, well, that`s not his game.
Veteran winger **Max Pacioretty**, now 36, proved he still has something left in the tank during his tenure with the Maple Leafs. He elevated his game significantly in the playoffs, contributing 8 points in 11 games, including a crucial series-clinching goal. Pacioretty`s career has been significantly impacted by injuries, a factor he and potential suitors must weigh. However, he`s adapted his style, incorporating more physicality. While considering all possibilities, including retirement, he could be a valuable short-term addition for a team needing leadership and timely scoring, provided they aren`t banking on him playing a full 82-game schedule. Toronto`s management has indicated the door remains open for his return.
Rounding out the prominent forward list from the available snippet is **Jeff Skinner**. The 33-year-old left winger, who logged over 1,000 NHL games, was occasionally a healthy scratch in Edmonton last season. While his previous contract was undoubtedly an overpay by former management, Skinner still possesses goal-scoring instincts and can be a power-play threat or provide secondary scoring. For teams needing offensive help and willing to offer a short-term deal at a reduced salary compared to his past earnings, Skinner could be a worthwhile gamble. Finally, 27-year-old right-shot center **Luke Kunin**, acquired by Columbus as a rental, is also among the depth options still seeking employment.
Defensive and Goaltending Options
On the blueline, 31-year-old left-shot defenseman **Matt Grzelcyk** is looking for a new home. After playing a full 82-game season with the Penguins and hitting a career-high 40 points, he publicly expressed a desire to stay in Pittsburgh. However, the Penguins opted to sign other defensemen, leaving the undersized (five-foot-10, 180 pounds) but experienced Grzelcyk to explore the market. With over 500 regular-season games and significant playoff experience, he offers mobility and offensive contribution from the back end to a team in need.
In goal, the market thinned out considerably with the long-anticipated trade of John Gibson. This leaves **Ilya Samsonov** as arguably the most intriguing remaining option between the pipes. The 28-year-old Russian netminder had a strong win-loss record (16-9-4) for Vegas last season but posted pedestrian save percentages (.891) and goals-against averages (2.82), and did not see playoff action. Vegas appears set with their current tandem, making Samsonov`s departure expected. While his performance can fluctuate, the lack of available starting or high-end backup options makes him a player drawing attention. However, his asking price may need adjustment to fit into a team`s budget, and potential landing spots remain somewhat limited for a goalie looking for a significant role.
The Waiting Game
The free agency period doesn`t end on July 1. The weeks that follow become a nuanced negotiation period. Teams, having committed their major funds, now look for bargains, specific skill sets, or depth pieces to round out their rosters before training camp. Players, having not secured their desired terms or roles in the initial frenzy, must weigh their options, potentially adjusting salary expectations or considering different team situations.
The remaining top UFAs represent opportunities – for teams to find valuable contributors at potentially lower price points and for players to prove their worth and earn a place in the league for another season. The “latest buzz” isn`t about who signed for the most money, but about where these experienced players will land and how they might impact their new teams` fortunes.