The opening days of NHL free agency on July 1st saw a predictable torrent of activity, with general managers across the league committing a staggering amount – over $860 million – to nearly 200 players within the initial hours. The first wave was, as always, a sprint to secure the perceived top-tier talent and fill critical roster gaps ahead of the competition. However, as the immediate frenzy subsides and teams take stock of their remaining needs and salary cap situations, the market hasn`t completely dried up. A select group of unrestricted free agents (UFAs) remains available, offering potential value to clubs still seeking specific attributes or depth, particularly with the salary cap on the rise and many teams possessing remaining financial flexibility below the $86 million ceiling for 2025-26.
The hunt for value and specific skill sets continues. Here`s a technical breakdown of some of the most prominent players still seeking contracts and the potential fit they might offer:
Jack Roslovic
- Age: 28
- Position: Centre / Wing
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $2.8 million
A player who can demonstrate flashes of offensive brilliance, Roslovic had a productive regular season in Carolina, tallying 22 goals and 39 points in 81 appearances. Yet, his performance level can fluctuate, and he was notably a healthy scratch during portions of the playoffs. His speed and ability to operate at both centre and wing positions provide valuable versatility. At 28, he represents one of the younger impactful forwards still available. Speculation has linked him to teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs (who suddenly find themselves with actual cap space, a minor miracle), the Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, and Buffalo Sabres, all requiring offensive fortification.
Victor Olofsson
- Age: 29
- Position: Left Wing
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $1.075 million
Olofsson presents as a pure offensive specialist available at a potentially cost-effective price. Despite scoring 15 goals and 29 points in just 56 games for Vegas, cap constraints made him an odd man out. His primary weapon is his shot, particularly on the power play, where he excels. His career shooting percentage sits at a robust 13.5%, and he boasts three seasons with 20 or more goals. Teams needing a dedicated power-play threat or a boost to their secondary scoring should be evaluating his fit, provided they understand his limitations in defensive responsibilities or physical play.
Matt Grzelcyk
- Age: 31
- Position: Defence
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $2.75 million
A left-shot puck-moving defenseman, Grzelcyk completed his first season away from Boston, playing all 82 games for the Pittsburgh Penguins. He posted a career-best 40 points, showcasing his offensive instincts and ability to contribute to the transition game. Despite expressing a desire to remain in Pittsburgh, the Penguins opted for alternative defensive signings, leaving the undersized (listed at five-foot-10, 180 pounds) veteran on the market. With over 500 regular-season and 60 playoff games played, he offers experience and a specific, desirable skill set for teams valuing defensive zone exits and offensive zone facilitation from the blue line.
Ilya Samsonov
- Age: 28
- Position: Goaltender
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $1.8 million
Standing out in a particularly thin goaltending market, Samsonov finished the season with Vegas holding the best record (16-9-4) among goalies who reached UFA status this summer. While his underlying statistics (2.82 goals-against average, .891 save percentage) weren`t elite, his ability to secure victories is evident. Reportedly seeking a change of scenery with Vegas set in net, Samsonov is the most intriguing netminder available. Finding a landing spot is the primary challenge, which may necessitate an adjustment to his asking price to align with team needs and available budget.
Max Pacioretty
- Age: 36
- Position: Left Wing
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $873,770
The seasoned veteran demonstrated his value in the critical moments of the playoffs with Toronto, including scoring a memorable series-clinching goal. His performance (8 points in 11 playoff games) underscored that despite his well-documented, indeed, almost legendary, battles with injuries, he can still impact the game at a high level, especially under pressure. Pacioretty has evolved his game, incorporating a more physical dimension. While expecting a full 82-game season might be overly optimistic, a short-term, performance-based deal could be highly appealing for a team targeting depth scoring and veteran leadership for a playoff push. The Maple Leafs` general manager has publicly stated that discussions regarding his potential return are not off the table.
Jeff Skinner
- Age: 33
- Position: Left Wing
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $3 million
Having completed his tenure with Edmonton, where he was occasionally a healthy scratch, Jeff Skinner enters free agency after being bought out from what was, charitably speaking, a rather ambitious contract signed years prior in Buffalo. Despite recent struggles and a diminished role, the winger with over 1,000 NHL games still possesses the fundamental ability to score goals. A return to Edmonton would undoubtedly require a significant financial adjustment. However, teams in need of secondary scoring or a potential power-play boost might find value in Skinner on a short-term, team-friendly contract, betting that a change of scenery and a defined role could unlock some of his historical offensive output.
Luke Kunin
- Age: 27
- Position: Centre
- Previous Cap Hit (2024-25): $2.75 million
Acquired by Columbus from San Jose as a trade deadline rental, Kunin is a right-shot centre known for his reliable, albeit not spectacular, two-way game. He provides depth and can capably fill a role in the middle-to-bottom six forward group. At 27, he is still in the traditional prime years of his career and offers a dependable, straightforward option for teams looking to solidify their organizational depth at centre without committing significant resources.
As the NHL offseason progresses into its quieter phases, these players and others still navigating the free agent landscape will be evaluating their best opportunities. For teams with remaining cap space, roster needs, and a willingness to be patient, the second wave of free agency often represents a prime opportunity to acquire valuable pieces at more palatable terms than those dictated by the initial market hysteria.
