The NHL offseason is about to begin following an exciting Stanley Cup playoffs, with the spotlight on South Florida as the Panthers secured their second straight championship by beating the Oilers once again. Key players like forwards Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand, along with defenseman Aaron Ekblad, are all set to become unrestricted free agents when free agency opens at noon ET on July 1. Panthers GM Bill Jeet aims to keep all three if possible.
Apart from the Panthers trio, Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner is the most prominent name available in free agency this summer. He, along with the other notables, will shape the NHL landscape as teams vie for top talent on July 1.
Mitch Marner is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the 2025 free agency class. He has been instrumental in the Maple Leafs’ forward lineup, achieving a career-high 102 points this past season. While it seems likely Marner may sign elsewhere, top teams like the Vegas Golden Knights, Utah Mammoths, and Carolina Hurricanes are potential suitors. The increase in salary cap could allow Marner to consider shorter-term contracts. Prediction: Marner will sign with the Vegas Golden Knights.
Sam Bennett was a key figure in the Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup wins, especially with his 15 goals in the playoffs and Conn Smythe Trophy win. If he entertains offers, he will be hot commodity, but Florida is likely to push hard to retain him. Prediction: Bennett re-signs with the Panthers.
The Vancouver Canucks have made roster changes this offseason, including trading JT Miller. Brock Boeser, a proven goal scorer despite a dip in production after a 40-goal campaign, is an attractive free agent. Teams like Minnesota Wild, Detroit Red Wings, and Toronto Maple Leafs could be logical destinations. Prediction: Boeser signs with the Maple Leafs.
Nikolaj Ehlers of the Jets, though injury-prone recently, remains a valuable offensive player and fits well on second lines. He offers a solid mid-tier investment compared to bigger contracts. Prediction: Ehlers signs with the Mammoths.
Brad Marchand, acquired late by the Panthers, was vital with 10 goals and 20 assists in the playoffs. At 37, he remains highly effective and has integrated well with the Panthers, who are expected to prioritize re-signing him. Prediction: Marchand re-signs with the Panthers.
Aaron Ekblad, a stalwart defender for the Panthers for 11 years, also becomes an unrestricted free agent. While valued defensively rather than offensively, Ekblad is only 29 and a key postseason player. Despite his preference to stay, the team may focus more on Bennett and Marchand, making Ekblad’s departure possible, with the Red Wings a logical new home. Prediction: Ekblad signs with the Red Wings.
John Tavares, a seasoned Leafs center with a strong scoring record, is another notable free agent. Though the Maple Leafs have shown interest in retaining him on a modest deal, he could explore new opportunities. Prediction: Tavares re-signs with the Maple Leafs.
Dmitry Gavrikov, a durable two-way defenseman recently acquired by the Kings, has shown consistency and is expected to be retained. Prediction: Gavrikov re-signs with the Kings.
Mikael Granlund, an underrated veteran winger, impressed during the Stars’ playoff run and remains a double-digit goal scorer. He might reunite with Dallas or join a strong contender like the Hurricanes. Prediction: Granlund signs with the Hurricanes.
Claude Giroux, at 37, continues to be an effective playmaker and offers valuable playoff experience. Having played recently for the Senators, he might test free agency but could return or join the Flyers, his original drafting team. Prediction: Giroux signs with the Flyers.
Fan Take: This free agency period is crucial as it could significantly shake up team rosters and competitiveness in the NHL. The movement of top players like Marner and Bennett will not only impact their new teams but also shape the future excitement and balance of power in the league.
