The standard rhythm of the NHL off-season often sees a flurry of activity around the opening of free agency, followed by a period of relative calm as most major players find new homes or re-sign. However, for a significant cohort of young, talented Restricted Free Agents (RFAs), the summer of 2025 remains a time of high-stakes negotiation and uncertainty. These players, having completed their entry-level contracts, are now seeking deals that reflect their growing value and define the next phase of their careers, while their teams balance player development, salary cap constraints, and future planning. As arbitration dates loom, the pressure is on for both sides to find common ground.
Navigating the RFA Landscape
The RFA market offers a diverse pool of talent this year, from budding superstars to crucial depth players. While some prominent names secured extensions early, a compelling group remains unsigned as July progresses. These players and their agents are leveraging past performance and future potential, while team general managers weigh long-term commitments against short-term flexibility.
A major factor in these discussions is the recent filing deadline for salary arbitration. Players or teams can elect arbitration, which sets a formal hearing date where an independent arbitrator will decide the player`s salary for the upcoming season if a deal isn`t reached beforehand. This process adds a deadline and can often spur negotiations towards a resolution.
Prominent Names and Their Situations
At the forefront of the unsigned RFAs is New Jersey Devils defenseman Luke Hughes. A fourth-overall pick and Calder finalist, Hughes immediately established himself as a top-four blueliner. His impressive rookie season, despite a shoulder issue, demonstrated immense potential. The conversation in New Jersey centers on whether to sign him to a long-term deal now, potentially following the example of Minnesota`s Brock Faber who signed for eight years at $8.5 million AAV – a figure that would place Hughes`s salary above his brother Jack`s current mark, a testament to his rapid ascent. GM Tom Fitzgerald sounds optimistic, citing Hughes`s desire for a long-term future with the team. Signing him long-term now would offer cost certainty against a rising cap, while a shorter “bridge” deal could provide temporary relief but lead to a much larger payday later.
The Anaheim Ducks have two key RFAs to address: goaltender Lukas Dostal and centre Mason McTavish. Dostal, who filed for arbitration, seized the starting role and performed exceptionally, ultimately leading to the trade of veteran John Gibson. His strong statistics behind a challenging team lineup highlight his potential as a true number one. Anaheim GM Pat Verbeek, who initially indicated no rush, is now in active discussions, recognizing the urgency created by Dostal`s performance and arbitration filing. Securing a young, reliable starting goalie is a difficult task, and Dostal has earned significant leverage.
McTavish, a former third-overall pick for the Ducks, has steadily improved, posting three consecutive seasons with over 40 points. While he doesn`t hold arbitration rights, his consistent offensive contribution and developing defensive game make him a cornerstone. Potential comparables include recent contracts signed by young centres like Los Angeles`s Quinton Byfield ($6.25M AAV). Verbeek aims to sign both Dostal and McTavish soon, describing them as “very important players” for the organization`s future.
In Winnipeg, forward Gabriel Vilardi and defenseman Dylan Samberg are both heading to arbitration. Vilardi has flourished since joining the Jets, becoming a dangerous top-six forward and power-play threat, coming off a career-high season. His offensive impact makes him a priority for a team with ample cap space after recent moves. Samberg, meanwhile, has quietly become a highly dependable blueliner, setting career highs and excelling in tougher defensive assignments, leading the team in plus/minus. Both players are vital to the Jets` core, and GM Kevin Cheveldayoff intends to find “common ground” on extensions.
Trade Possibilities and Positional Needs
Defenseman Bowen Byram, acquired by the Buffalo Sabres, is another notable RFA with arbitration rights (filed by the team, not the player). Despite his talent as a former fourth-overall pick, Stanley Cup champion, and a player who logs heavy minutes, speculation about a potential trade persists. Buffalo`s acquisition of other defensemen has fueled this talk, and GM Kevyn Adams is open to trading Byram for the “right trade” that brings immediate help, specifically a scoring forward. This situation highlights how a player`s RFA status can intersect with a team`s specific roster needs and market opportunities.
Elsewhere, winger Kaapo Kakko is looking to solidify his place with the Seattle Kraken. The former second-overall pick was acquired from the Rangers and saw his production and ice time increase in Seattle, showing glimpses of the player he was projected to be. Despite recent front office and coaching changes in Seattle, new GM Jason Botterill is confident a deal will get done, allowing Kakko to continue establishing himself in a top-six role.
Other RFAs are also working towards their next deals. Los Angeles Kings winger Alex Laferriere, a “Harvard lad” who posted career highs in goals and assists, is an important young piece for the Kings. Lacking arbitration rights, a short-term bridge deal seems probable as GM Ken Holland navigates a cap sheet impacted by recent free agency signings. Similarly, Calgary Flames centre Connor Zary, a former first-round pick, is likely looking at a short-term deal. While his production slightly dipped after his rookie surge, his age fits Calgary`s rebuild timeline, and his lack of arbitration rights means there`s “no huge rush” for GM Craig Conroy, who is addressing other signings first.
Finally, Toronto Maple Leafs winger Nicholas Robertson presents a unique case. After requesting a trade last off-season due to ice time issues, he re-signed for a year and posted a career-high 15 goals, showing improvement under a new coach. Yet, his deployment, particularly in the playoffs, remains a point of contention. Robertson has filed for arbitration, seeking a higher salary, and GM Brad Treliving acknowledges they are in “early days” of discussions. Despite the arbitration filing, Robertson`s name continues to appear in trade rumors as the Leafs explore adding top-six forward talent, adding another layer to his uncertain future in Toronto.
The Path Forward
This group of unsigned RFAs represents more than just names on a list; they are pivotal pieces whose contract outcomes will directly influence their teams` ability to compete, manage the salary cap, and build for the future. The negotiations are a delicate balance of player aspiration and team strategy. Whether resolved through swift agreements, complex arbitration rulings, or even unexpected trades, the path forward for these talented young players is a key storyline of the 2025 NHL off-season, proving that even after the main free agency period, significant business remains.
