NHL · 1 month ago

Predicting Landing Spots for the Top 75 NHL Free Agents

Grant White

Host · Writer

75. Cole Koepke
Team: Boston Bruins

Age: 25 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 73 GP | 10 G | 7 A | 17 PTS

Career Stats: 99 GP | 11 G | 9 A | 20 PTS

Cole Koepke tormented opponents in the AHL, but wasn't able to crack the Lightning's lineup. As such, he spent last year with the Boston Bruins, where he showed off as a solid depth scoring option. He will look to replicate that success with the Winnipeg Jets in 2025-26.

Landing Spot: Koepke signed with the Jets (one year, $1 million)
1. Mitch Marner
Team: Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 28 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 27 G | 75 A | 102 PTS

Career Stats: 657 GP | 221 G | 520 A | 741 PTS

Mitch Marner’s time with the Toronto Maple Leafs has come to an end. The oft-maligned winger is off to Sin City after a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.

Landing Spot: Marner re-signed with the Maple Leafs but was traded to the Golden Knights (eight years, $96 million)
2. Sam Bennett
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 76 GP | 25 G | 26 A | 51 PTS

Career Stats: 691 GP | 162 G | 174 A | 336 PTS

Over the past few seasons, the Florida Panthers have built a dynasty, and it would be foolish if any of their impending free agents decided to abandon that for a few extra bucks. Sam Bennett is due for a pay increase, and the Panthers happily obliged.

Landing Spot: Bennet re-signed with the Panthers (eight years, $64 million)
3. Nikolaj Ehlers
Team: Winnipeg Jets

Age: 29 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 69 GP | 24 G | 39 A | 63 PTS

Career Stats: 674 GP | 255 G | 295 A | 520 PTS

For years, the Winnipeg Jets have failed to get over the hump, and that could necessitate a change this offseason. Consider Nikolaj Ehlers to be one of the casualties of the shifting culture. His speed and two-way play will be appreciated on many teams, but maximized by Rod Brind'Amour.

Landing Spot: Ehlers has signed with the Hurricanes (six years, $51 million)
4. Aaron Ekblad
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | Position: Right Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 56 GP | 3 G | 30 A | 33 PTS

Career Stats: 732 GP | 118 G | 262 A | 380 PTS

Injuries and a couple of down years could have cost Aaron Ekblad a monumental contract this offseason. Nevertheless, the hulking blueliner was happy to re-up with the two-time defending Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers.

Landing Spot: Ekblad re-signed with the Panthers (eight years, $48.8 million)
5. John Tavares
Team: Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 34 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 75 GP | 38 G | 36 A | 74 PTS

Career Stats: 1,184 GP | 494 G | 620 A | 1,114 PTS

A few years ago, John Tavares left money on the table to join his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs. No amount of money can pry him away in the twilight of his career. Tavares took a significant pay cut to stay with the Leafs.

Landing Spot: Tavares re-signed with the Maple Leafs (four years, $17.2 million)
6. Brock Nelson
Team: Colorado Avalanche

Age: 33 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 26 G | 30 A | 56 PTS

Career Stats: 920 GP | 301 G | 286 A | 587 PTS

Nearly 1,000 games into his NHL career, and Brock Nelson has only a handful of playoff appearances under his belt. He obviously likes what he sees with the Colorado Avalanche, coming back on a short-term deal.

Landing Spot: Nelson has re-signed with the Avalanche (three years, $22.5 million)
6. Vladislav Gavrikov
Team: Los Angeles Kings

Age: 29 | Position: Left Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 5 G | 25 A | 30 PTS

Career Stats: 435 GP | 29 G | 106 A | 135 PTS

A quality rearguard in the prime of his career, several teams will try to lure Vladislav Gavrikov to a new home this offseason. Alas, it was the New York Rangers that had the most to offer.

Landing Spot: Gavrikov has signed with the Rangers (seven years, $49 million)
8. Ivan Provorov
Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 28 | Position: Left Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 7 G | 26 A | 33 PTS

Career Stats: 696 GP | 77 G | 205 A | 282 PTS

Ivan Provorov has been an underappreciated defensive contributor throughout his NHL career. However, the Columbus Blue Jackets were willing to pay him what he deserved this offseason.

Landing Spot: Provorov has re-signed with the Blue Jackets (eight years, $59.5 million)
9. Brock Boeser
Team: Vancouver Canucks

Age: 28 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 75 GP | 25 G | 25 A | 50 PTS

Career Stats: 554 GP | 204 G | 230 A | 434 PTS

Foolishly, the Vancouver Canucks didn’t trade Brock Boeser when they had the chance. Now, the dynamic forward will depart for greener pastures without offering the Canucks anything in return. The Minnesota Wild will jump at the opportunity to bring the skilled forward back home to their top six.

Predicted Landing Spot: Minnesota Wild
10. Matt Duchene
Team: Dallas Stars

Age: 34 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 30 G | 52 A | 82 PTS

Career Stats: 1,138 GP | 371 G | 520 A | 891 PTS

Matt Duchene took a discount to stay with the Dallas Stars the last time he was a free agent, but he wasn't about to get underpaid on what will likely be the last meaningful contract of his career.

Landing Spot: Duchene re-signed with the Stars (four years, $18 million)
11. Mikael Granlund
Team: Dallas Stars

Age: 33 | Position: Center/Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 83 GP | 22 G | 44 A | 66 PTS

Career Stats: 902 GP | 179 G | 431 A | 610 PTS

Desperately needing to improve their offensive firepower, the Anaheim Ducks have overpaid for Mikael Granlund’s services, dooming their franchise to another few seasons of mediocrity.

Landing Spot: Granlund has signed with the Ducks (three years, $21 million)
12. Brad Marchand
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 37 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 71 GP | 23 G | 28 A | 51 PTS

Career Stats: 1100 GP | 424 G | 556 A | 980 PTS

Proving that he still has plenty left in the tank, Brad Marchand would have been a key offseason target for several teams wanting to take the next step in the playoffs. Instead, the Florida Panthers were willing to pay him until his age 43 season.

Landing Spot: Marchand has re-signed with the Panthers (six years, $31.5 million)
13. Jake Allen
Team: New Jersey Devils

Age: 34 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 31 GP | 13 W | 16 L | 4 SO | 2.66 GAA | .906 SV%

Career Stats: 460 GP | 208 W | 184 L | 28 SO | 2.76 GAA | .908 SV%

Starting-caliber goaltenders are in constant demand in the NHL, and one franchise has been desperately looking for stability for decades. Despite the Edmonton Oilers' best effort, Jake Allen elected to stay with the Devils.

Landing Spot: Allen has re-signed with the Devils (five years, $9 million)
14. Ryan Donato
Team: Chicago Blackhawks

Age: 29 | Position: Center/Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 31 G | 31 A | 62 PTS

Career Stats: 438 GP | 108 G | 119 A | 227 PTS

A top candidate to be moved at the NHL Trade Deadline, Ryan Donato was expected to be on the move this offseason. Instead, the speedy winger decided to stay in the Windy City on a four-year pact.

Landing Spot: Donato has re-signed with the Blackhawks (four years, $16 million)
15. Dmitry Orlov
Team: Carolina Hurricanes

Age: 33 | Position: Left Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 76 GP | 6 G | 22 A | 28 PTS

Career Stats: 867 GP | 76 G | 251 A | 327 PTS

Dmitry Orlov heads into this offseason as one of the premier defensemen available in free agency. Curiously, Orlov decided to sign with the San Jose Sharks.

Landing Spot: Orlov signed with the Sharks (two years, $13 million)
16. Patrick Kane
Team: Detroit Red Wings

Age: 36 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 72 GP | 21 G | 38 A | 59 PTS

Career Stats: 1302 GP | 492 G | 851 A | 1343 PTS

Quietly, Patrick Kane has continued to assert himself as an offensive threat. The eventual Hall of Famer has been a catalyst for a young Detroit Red Wings team, who weren't about to let him walk in free agency.

Landing Spot: Kane has re-signed with the Red Wings (one year, $3 million)
17. Jonathan Toews
Team: None

Age: 37 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: DNP

Career Stats: 1067 GP | 372 G | 511 A | 883 PTS

A bout of long COVID has kept Jonathan Toews out of the NHL for the past two seasons. Nevertheless, the veteran center will make his triumphant return to the league with his hometown Winnipeg Jets in 2025-26.

Landing Spot: Toews has signed with the Jets
18. Claude Giroux
Team: Ottawa Senators

Age: 37 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 15 G | 35 A | 50 PTS

Career Stats: 1263 GP | 365 G | 751 A | 1116 PTS

A few years ago, the Ottawa Senators brought in Claude Giroux to stabilize their young core. While his production has waned, Giroux has cemented his position as a team leader and secondary contributor.

Landing Spot: Giroux has re-signed with the Senators (one year, $2 million)
19. Brent Burns
Team: Carolina Hurricanes

Age: 40 | Position: Right Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 6 G | 23 A | 29 PTS

Career Stats: 1497 GP | 261 G | 649 A | 910 PTS

Winning a Stanley Cup remains the top priority for Brent Burns, making it unlikely he signs anywhere other than the Carolina Hurricanes. However, he found a new landing spot, with equally promising Stanley Cup chances, with the Colorado Avalanche.

Landing Spot: Burns has signed with the Avalanche (one year, $1 million)
20. Jonathan Drouin
Team: Colorado Avalanche

Age: 30 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 43 GP | 11 G | 26 A | 37 PTS

Career Stats: 607 GP | 107 G | 267 A | 374 PTS

Jonathan Drouin has never really lived up to the hype. Still, he has been a productive complementary piece on many teams and is a top-tier offensive asset. We're betting he gets lured to the bright lights of Broadway this offseason.

Landing Spot: Drouin signed with the Islanders (two years, $8 million)
21. Jamie Benn
Team: Dallas Stars

Age: 35 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 16 G | 33 A | 49 PTS

Career Stats: 1192 GP | 399 G | 557 A | 956 PTS

Jamie Benn has spent his entire career with the Dallas Stars, and that wasn't about to change this offseason. The Stars captain is running it back, looking to get over the hump in the Western Conference finally.

Landing Spot: Benn has re-signed with the Stars (one year, $1 million)
22. Pius Suter
Team: Vancouver Canucks

Age: 29 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 25 G | 21 A | 46 PTS

Career Stats: 364 GP | 82 G | 80 A | 162 PTS

Pius Suter plays an underappreciated role. He's a responsible two-way player with a decent scoring touch. While many teams covet that kind of player, Suter is tailor-made for the Blues' system.

Landing Spot: Suter has signed with the Blues (two years, $8.25 million)
23. Jack Roslovic
Team: Carolina Hurricanes

Age: 28 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 22 G | 17 A | 39 PTS

Career Stats: 526 GP | 102 G | 158 A | 260 PTS

At his best, Jack Roslovic is a fiery goal-scoring fiend, but few teams have been able to unlock that level of play. Roslovic would be remiss if he left his current squad.

Predicted Landing Spot: Carolina Hurricanes
24. Andrei Kuzmenko
Team: Los Angeles Kings

Age: 29 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 66 GP | 11 G | 26 A | 37 PTS

Career Stats: 219 GP | 72 G | 85 A | 157 PTS

Four years into his NHL career, Andrei Kuzmenko has already played on four different teams. Nevertheless, he found his stride with the Los Angeles Kings after being acquired at the deadline. If he can produce at that level for an entire season, Kuzmenko will be in line for a hefty salary increase.

Landing Spot: Kuzmenko has re-signed with the Kings (one year, $4.3 million)
25. Reilly Smith
Team: Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 34 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 79 GP | 13 G | 27 A | 40 PTS

Career Stats: 919 GP | 226 G | 327 A | 553 PTS

Given their flurry of free agent action, it appeared unlikely that Reilly Smith would be back with the Vegas Golden Knights. Still, Smith landed back in Sin City on a one-year pact.

Landing Spot: Smith re-signed with the Golden Knights
26. Ryan Lindgren
Team: Colorado Avalanche

Age: 27 | Position: Left Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 72 GP | 4 G | 18 A | 22 PTS

Career Stats: 405 GP | 14 G | 88 A | 102 PTS

Far from the flashiest player on the ice, Ryan Lindgren has proven to be a responsible shutdown defenseman. As we see every offseason, there is always one team willing to overpay for this kind of player.

Landing Spot: Lindgren signed with the Kraken (four years, $18 million)
27. Matt Grzelcyk
Team: Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 31 | Position: Left Defenseman

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 1 G | 39 A | 40 PTS

Career Stats: 527 GP | 26 G | 149 A | 175 PTS

Matt Grzelcyk had the most productive season of his career, and it couldn't have come at a better time. There will be several teams inquiring about his services, but there is probably one team willing to overpay for his services.

Predicted Landing Spot: Philadelphia Flyers
28. Andrew Mangiapane
Team: Washington Capitals

Age: 29 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 14 G | 14 A | 28 PTS

Career Stats: 498 GP | 123 G | 120 A | 243 PTS

Andrew Mangiapane had a down year in 2024-25. Still, we're expecting several Stanley Cup contenders to inquire about his services as a bottom-six winger. Expect him to land with an unsuspecting team.

Landing Spot: Mangiapane signed with the Oilers (two years, $7.2 million)
29. Corey Perry
Team: Edmonton Oilers

Age: 40 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 19 G | 11 A | 30 PTS

Career Stats: 1392 GP | 448 G | 487 A | 935 PTS

Old man Corey Perry has earned an unflattering distinction of being on the losing side of the Stanley Cup Final in five of the last six seasons. Still, the Los Angeles Kings paid a premium to keep him in the Pacific Division.

Landing Spot: Perry signed with the Kings (one year, $2 million)
30. Evgenii Dadonov
Team: Dallas Stars

Age: 36 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 20 G | 20 A | 40 PTS

Career Stats: 617 GP | 163 G | 198 A | 361 PTS

When Evgenii Dadonov decides to turn it on, he can be an electric scoring winger. Consistency continues to limit his upside. At 36 years old, he's only getting a short-term deal.

Landing Spot: Dadonov signed with the Devils (one year, $1 million)
31. Tanner Jeannot
Team: Boston Bruins

Age: 28 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 67 GP | 7 G | 6 A | 13 PTS

Career Stats: 294 GP | 49 G | 44 A | 93 PTS

Tanner Jeannot is part of a dying breed of hockey players. His truculent style is no longer a requirement on an NHL team, and he lacks the scoring pedigree to play significant minutes on a nightly basis. Still, the Boston Bruins were willing to overpay the bruiser on an extended term.

Landing Spot: Jeannot signed with the Bruins (five years, $17 million)
32. Nate Schmidt
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 33 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 5 G | 14 A | 19 PTS

Career Stats: 741 GP | 52 G | 187 A | 239 PTS

Fresh off his Stanley Cup victory, Nate Schmidt is free to sign with the team of his choosing. While he has offensive skills to contribute, Schmidt is best suited for a primarily defensive role on the second or third pairing.

Landing Spot: Schmidt signed with the Mammoth (three years, $10.5 million)
33. Brandon Tanev
Team: Winnipeg Jets

Age: 33 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 79 GP | 10 G | 12 A | 22 PTS

Career Stats: 552 GP | 84 G | 96 A | 180 PTS

We see it at the trade deadline every year: Contending teams need a player of Brandon Tanev's ilk come the playoffs. While he lacks offensive firepower, Tanev is well-suited for a checking role on any team.

Landing Spot: Tanev signed with the Mammoth (three years, $7.5 million)
34. Cody Ceci
Team: Dallas Stars

Age: 31 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 85 GP | 4 G | 20 A | 24 PTS

Career Stats: 871 GP | 52 G | 183 A | 235 PTS

Cody Ceci was traded partway through last season, resulting in him playing 85 games in 2024-25. Heading into free agency, there was sure to be a team willing to overpay for his services, and he found that with the Los Angeles Kings.

Landing Spot: Ceci signed with the Kings (four years, $18 million)
35. Brian Dumoulin
Team: New Jersey Devils

Age: 33 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 3 G | 19 A | 22 PTS

Career Stats: 706 GP | 28 G | 149 A | 177 PTS

Another one of the shutdown defensemen available in this year's free agency crop, teams will be clamoring for a player of Brian Dumoulin's pedigree. Still, the Los Angeles Kings didn't need two of the same player.

Landing Spot: Dumoulin signed with the Kings (three years, $12 million)
36. Christian Dvorak
Team: Montreal Canadiens

Age: 29 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 12 G | 21 A | 33 PTS

Career Stats: 534 GP | 105 G | 144 A | 249 PTS

Throughout his career, Christian Dvorak has been a solid two-way, depth scorer. Still, he lacks the offensive punch to consistently produce in the attacking zone. Coming off a career-best 33 points, some team was sure to overpay for his services.

Landing Spot: Dvorak signed with the Philadelphia Flyers (one year, $5.4 million)
37. John Klingberg
Team: Edmonton Oilers

Age: 32 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 11 GP | 1 G | 3 A | 4 PTS

Career Stats: 664 GP | 82 G | 334 A | 416 PTS

Once considered one of the premier defensemen in the NHL, injuries have slowed John Klingberg's production over the past few seasons. Nevertheless, he remains a point producer on the backend, a skillset that is coveted by every team in the league.

Landing Spot: Klingberg signed with the Sharks (one year, $4 million)
38. Gustav Nyquist
Team: Minnesota Wild

Age: 35 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 79 GP | 11 G | 17 A | 28 PTS

Career Stats: 863 GP | 209 G | 322 A | 531 PTS

Now 35 years old, Gustav Nyquist could inch closer to the 1,000-game mark after the 2025-26 season. While he isn't the marksman he once was, Nyquist still has plenty to offer offensively.

Landing Spot: Nyquist signed with the Winnipeg Jets (one year, $3.25 million)
39. Mason Appleton
Team: Winnipeg Jets

Age: 29 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 71 GP | 10 G | 12 A | 22 PTS

Career Stats: 400 GP | 57 G | 81 A | 138 PTS

Mason Appleton is your quintessential bottom-six forward. While he doesn't possess game-changing offensive abilities, he plays responsibly in his own end.

Landing Spot: Appleton signed with the Red Wings (two years, $5.8 million)
40. Anthony Beauvillier
Team: Washington Capitals

Age: 28 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 15 G | 10 A | 25 PTS

Career Stats: 631 GP | 131 G | 140 A | 271 PTS

Early in his career, Anthony Beauvillier was viewed as a top offensive prospect. But nine years later, he's flashed middling offensive skills. While it's possible he continues his development through his prime years, Beauvillier is nothing more than a depth scoring option.

Landing Spot: Beauvillier re-signed with the Capitals (two years, $5.5 million)
41. James van Riemsdyk
Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 36 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 71 GP | 16 G | 20 A | 36 PTS

Career Stats: 1,082 GP | 327 G | 338 A | 665 PTS

Sixteen seasons into his NHL career, and James van Riemsdyk remains a solid secondary contributor. JVR has 36 or more points in nine of his past 10 seasons. He'll have the chance to add to that total with the Detroit Red Wings.

Landing Spot: van Riemsdyk signed with the Red Wings (one year, $1 million)
42. Dan Vladar
Team: Calgary Flames

Age: 27 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 30 GP | 12 W | 11 L | 2 SO | 2.80 GAA | 89.8 SV%

Career Stats: 105 GP | 49 W | 34 L | 4 SO | 2.98 GAA | 89.5 SV%

Dan Vladar is not a household name, but the Philadelphia Flyers are paying him like he's about to become one. The 27-year-old netminder will challenge for a prominent role in The City of Brotherly Love.

Landing Spot: Vladar signed with the Flyers (two years, $6.7 million)
43. Joel Armia
Team: Montreal Canadiens

Age: 32 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 11 G | 18 A | 29 PTS

Career Stats: 586 GP | 103 G | 104 A | 207 PTS

For the past seven seasons, Joel Armia has been an underappreciated asset of the Montreal Canadiens' forward corps. A solid two-way player, Armia contributes enough offensively without compromising his defensive zone play. Coincidentally, that's exactly the type of profile that's valued by the Los Angeles Kings.

Landing Spot: Armia signed with the Kings (two years, $5 million)
44. Radek Faksa
Team: St. Louis Blues

Age: 31 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 70 GP | 5 G | 10 A | 15 PTS

Career Stats: 708 GP | 94 G | 121 A | 215 PTS

Clearly, Radek Faksa wasn't well-suited to the St. Louis Blues' system. The veteran center had the worst offensive production since his rookie season, precipitating a move back to the Dallas Stars this offseason.

Landing Spot: Faksa signed with the Stars (three years, $6 million)
45. Nick Perbix
Team: Tampa Bay Lightning

Age: 27 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 74 GP | 6 G | 13 A | 19 PTS

Career Stats: 220 GP | 13 G | 50 A | 63 PTS

In his first season as a free agent, Nick Perbix elected to depart the only franchise he's known throughout his professional career. The 27-year-old embarks on a new venture, signing on with the Nashville Predators on a two-year contract.

Landing Spot: Perbix signed with the Predators (two years, $5.5 million)
46. Connor Brown
Team: Edmonton Oilers

Age: 31 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 13 G | 17 A | 30 PTS

Career Stats: 601 GP | 107 G | 151 A | 258 PTS

The New Jersey Devils paid Connor Brown like he was one of the premier forwards on the market. While Brown has played a complementary role for the Edmonton Oilers for the past couple of seasons, he has still fallen short of elite production. New Jersey must be expecting the speedy right winger to recapture his 20-goal form.

Landing Spot: Brown signed with the Devils (four years, $12 million)
47. Anthony Mantha
Team: Calgary Flames

Age: 30 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 13 GP | 4 G | 3 A | 7 PTS

Career Stats: 507 GP | 146 G | 157 A | 303 PTS

A torn ACL cost Anthony Mantha most of his 2024-25 campaign. The seasoned right winger appeared in just 13 games and recorded seven points with the Calgary Flames. A solid depth scorer who is well-suited for a middle-six role, Mantha will be suiting up for the Pittsburgh Penguins next season.

Landing Spot: Mantha signed with the Penguins (one year, $2.5 million)
48. Nico Sturm
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 30 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 62 GP | 7 G | 7 A | 14 PTS

Career Stats: 331 GP | 46 G | 46 A | 92 PTS

By all accounts, 2024-25 was a down year for Nico Sturm. The former 15-goal scorer found the back of the net just seven times, albeit while winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers.

Sturm needs to figure out his defensive game if he hopes to excel with the Minnesota Wild.

Landing Spot: Sturm signed with the Wild (two years, $4 million)
49. Anton Forsberg
Team: Ottawa Senators

Age: 32 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 30 GP | 11 W | 12 L | 3 SO | 2.72 GAA | 90.1 SV%

Career Stats: 190 GP | 74 W | 81 L | 8 SO | 3.04 GAA | 90.4 SV%

Since landing in the NHL back in 2014-15, Anton Forsberg has proven to be a competent backup. The Swedish netminder hit the free agent market after his fifth season with the Ottawa Senators.

He finished the campaign with a 90.1% save percentage and 11 wins, benchmarks that are sure to improve with the Los Angeles Kings next season.

Landing Spot: Vladar signed with the Flyers (two years, $6.7 million)
50. Jeff Skinner
Team: Edmonton Oilers

Age: 33 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 72 GP | 16 G | 13 A | 29 PTS

Career Stats: 1,078 GP | 373 G | 326 A | 699 PTS

Jeff Skinner has been on a downward spiral for the past few seasons. After recording a career-best 82 points in 2022-23, the left winger fell to just 29 points with the Edmonton Oilers last season.

The San Jose Sharks are hoping he can recapture his former glory, signing Skinner to a one-year show-me deal.

Landing Spot: Skinner signed with the Sharks (one year, $3 million)
51. Tony DeAngelo
Team: New York Islanders

Age: 29 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 35 GP | 5 G | 15 A | 19 PTS

Career Stats: 406 GP | 52 G | 177 A | 229 PTS

The New York Islanders have locked up Tony DeAngelo for another season. The blueliner has failed to live up to the offensive exploits from earlier in his career, but has still been a serviceable contributor in both ends of the ice. Coming over partway through the 2024-25 season, DeAngelo totaled 19 points in 35 games for the Isles.

Landing Spot: DeAngelo has re-signed with the Islanders (one year, $1.75 million)
52. Justin Danforth
Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 32 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 61 GP | 9 G | 12 A | 21 PTS

Career Stats: 183 GP | 31 G | 33 A | 64 PTS

The definition of a journeyman, Justin Danforth had to grind his way into the NHL. However, he has been a regular contributor for the Columbus Blue Jackets over the past couple of seasons. Danforth put up nine goals and 21 points last season, earning himself a two-year deal with the Buffalo Sabres.

Landing Spot: Danforth signed with the Sabres (two years, $3.6 million)
53. Sean Kuraly
Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

Age: 32 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 82 GP | 6 G | 11 A | 17 PTS

Career Stats: 562 GP | 64 G | 89 A | 153 PTS

Since landing in Columbus, Sean Kuraly has been one of the Blue Jackets' top two-way players. The centerman chips in offensively while also serving as a solid defensive contributor. The former fifth-round pick is returning to his former stomping grounds, signing with the Boston Bruins on a multi-year deal.

Landing Spot: Kuraly has signed with the Bruins (two years, $3.7 million)
54. Adam Gaudette
Team: Ottawa Senators

Age: 28 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 19 G | 7 A | 26 PTS

Career Stats: 301 GP | 46 G | 50 A | 96 PTS

After toiling in the minors for most of the last few seasons, Adam Gaudette was a regular for the Ottawa Senators in 2024-25. The right winger totaled a career-best 19 goals while appearing in all but one regular-season contest. That was enough to earn Gaudette a handsome pay raise out West.

Landing Spot: Gaudette signed with the Sharks (two years, $4 million)
55. Parker Wotherspoon
Team: Boston Bruins

Age: 27 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 55 GP | 1 G | 6 A | 7 PTS

Career Stats: 108 GP | 1 G | 15 A | 16 PTS

It took almost ten years since he was drafted, but Parker Wotherspoon earned regular playing time last season. The rearguard appeared in a career-high 55 games, registering the first goal of his career and chipping in with six assists. He'll be suiting up in a different black and yellow next signing, signing on with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Landing Spot: Wotherspoon signed with the Penguins (one year, $2 million)
56. Pontus Holmberg
Team: Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 26 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 68 GP | 7 G | 12 A | 19 PTS

Career Stats: 159 GP | 19 G | 30 A | 49 PTS

Over the past few seasons, Pontus Holmberg has been the Toronto Maple Leafs' secret depth scoring weapon. Still, he's gotten better year after year. Holmberg appeared in a career-high 68 games last season, tallying seven goals and 19 points. The Leafs couldn't find the cap space to re-up with their tertiary scoring winger.

Landing Spot: Holmberg signed with the Lightning (two years, $3.1 million)
57. Nick Bjugstad
Team: Utah Hockey Club

Age: 33 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 66 GP | 8 G | 11 A | 19 PTS

Career Stats: 760 GP | 157 G | 173 A | 330 PTS

Nick Bjugstad's scoring took a hit last season, but he proved that he is still one of the premier checking centers in the NHL. Coming off a career-best 22 goals and 45 points the year prior, Bjugstad tallied a more modest eight goals and 19 points with the Utah Hockey Club in 2024-25. His analytics profile is tailor-made for success with the St. Louis Blues.

Landing Spot: Bjugstad signed with the Blues (two years, $3.5 million)
58. Victor Olofsson
Team: Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 30 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 56 GP | 15 G | 14 A | 29 PTS

Career Stats: 370 GP | 105 G | 106 A | 211 PTS

After spending the first six seasons of his career with the Sabres, Victor Olofsson joined the Vegas Golden Knights for the 2024-25 campaign. While he was able to take a step forward offensively, Olofsson still wasn't able to reach the scoring heights from earlier in his career. The left winger will try to make that climb with the Colorado Avalanche next season.

Landing Spot: Olofsson signed with the Avalanche (one year, $1.575 million)
59. Joel Hanley
Team: Calgary Flames

Age: 34 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 53 GP | 2 G | 7 A | 9 PTS

Career Stats: 246 GP | 5 G | 33 A | 38 PTS

It took a few years before he became a regular, but Joel Hanley has stuck around with the Calgary Flames. The rearguard appeared in a career-high 53 games last season, setting a new benchmark in points. While he will never be a top-pairing defenseman, Hanley has proven to be a valuable defensive commodity on the backend.

Landing Spot: Hanley re-signed with the Flames (two years, $3.5 million)
60. Philip Tomasino
Team: Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 24 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 50 GP | 11 G | 12 A | 23 PTS

Career Stats: 209 GP | 34 G | 60 A | 94 PTS

A former first-round pick, Philip Tomasino hasn't reached the heights many thought he would early in his career. Nevertheless, the right winger has shown that he's a capable depth scoring option. Tomasino hit double-digit goals for the second time in his career last year and should continue that upward trajectory with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Landing Spot: Tomasino re-signed with the Penguins (one year, $1.75 million)
61. Michael Eyssimont
Team: Seattle Kraken

Age: 28 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 77 GP | 9 G | 7 A | 16 PTS

Career Stats: 213 GP | 25 G | 31 A | 56 PTS

Michael Eyssimont split last season between the Seattle Kraken and Tampa Bay Lightning, but his impact was felt more out west. The centerman put up six points in 20 games while earning more significant playing time with the Kraken. He's ideally suited for Beantown's systems.

Landing Spot: Eyssimont signed with the Bruins (two years, $2.9 million)
62. Lars Eller
Team: Washington Capitals

Age: 36 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 63 GP | 6 G | 9 A | 15 PTS

Career Stats: 1,116 GP | 188 G | 236 A | 424 PTS

Age might finally be starting to catch up with Lars Eller. A veteran of 14 NHL seasons, time has eroded his offensive abilities. Still, Ellers remains a solid two-way forward capable of stabilizing play in the defensive zone. That's precisely the presence the Ottawa Senators need.

Landing Spot: Eller signed with the Senators (one year, $1.25 million)
63. Taylor Raddysh
Team: Washington Capitals

Age: 27 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 80 GP | 7 G | 20 A | 27 PTS

Career Stats: 305 GP | 43 G | 57 A | 100 PTS

The New York Rangers added to their scoring depth this offseason, signing Taylor Raddysh to a multi-year contract. The winger is a former 20-goal scorer and should fit in nicely with the Broadway Blueshirts.

Landing Spot: Raddysh signed with the Rangers (two years, $3 million)
64. Justin Brazeau
Team: Minnesota Wild

Age: 27 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 19 GP | 1 G | 1 A | 2 PTS

Career Stats: 95 GP | 16 G | 13 A | 29 PTS

It took a few extra years of development, but Justin Brazeau finally showed he had what it takes to stick around the NHL. The right winger cracked the Boston Bruins' roster last season, before getting traded partway through the campaign. Still, 22 points is nothing to scoff at.

Landing Spot: Brazeau signed with the Penguins (two years, $3 million)
65. Vitek Vanecek
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 25 GP | 5 W | 14 L | 1 SO | 3.62 GAA | 88.4 SV%

Career Stats: 190 GP | 74 W | 81 L | 8 SO | 3.04 GAA | 90.4 SV%

Last year could have gone very differently for Vitek Vanecek. Starting his season with the lowly Sharks, the netminder was shipped to the Florida Panthers ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline. There, he won his first Stanley Cup after appearing in just seven games.

Landing Spot: Vanecek signed with the Mammoth (one year, $1.5 million)
66. Mike Reilly
Team: New York Islanders

Age: 32 | Position: Defense

2024-25 Stats: 18 GP | 0 G | 2 A | 2 PTS

Career Stats: 418 GP | 18 G | 106 A | 124 PTS

Regression was inevitable for Mike Reilly. After putting together the best statistical campaign of his career in 2023-24, the veteran blueliner was limited to just two points in 18 games last season. Nevertheless, he remains a solid defensive zone presence that can be relied upon to shut down opposing stars.

Landing Spot: Reilly signed with the Hurricanes (one year, $1.1 million)
67. Philipp Kurashev
Team: Chicago Blackhawks

Age: 25 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 51 GP | 7 G | 7 A | 14 PTS

Career Stats: 317 GP | 48 G | 82 A | 130 PTS

Philipp Kurashev has established himself as a solid depth scoring option, albeit one without a shred of defensive integrity. Over the last three seasons, the center man has finished a mind-numbing -104. Still, teams crave his scoring abilities as a bottom-six option.

Landing Spot: Kurashev signed with the Sharks (one year, $1.2 million)
68. Joel Kiviranta
Team: Colorado Avalanche

Age: 29 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 79 GP | 16 G | 7 A | 23 PTS

Career Stats: 298 GP | 35 G | 25 A | 60 PTS

Joel Kiviranta emerged as a top-scoring threat last season. The Finnish forward recorded a career-best 16 goals and seven assists, almost doubling his previous point total. If he maintains that production, he could earn a significant pay raise next offseason.

Landing Spot: Kiviranta re-signed with the Avalanche (one year, $1.25 million)
69. Isac Lundestrom
Team: Anaheim Ducks

Age: 25 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 79 GP | 4 G | 11 A | 15 PTS

Career Stats: 337 GP | 35 G | 49 A | 84 PTS

Defensively responsible two-way centers don't grow on trees, so it was inevitable that Isac Lundestrom was going to get a multi-year deal. He will fit in nicely with the Columbus Blue Jackets and should take on a bigger role in Ohio.

Landing Spot: Lundestrom signed with the Blue Jackets (two years, $2.6 million)
70. Alex Lyon
Team: Detroit Red Wings

Age: 32 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 30 GP | 14 W | 9 L | 1 SO | 2.81 GAA | 89.6 SV%

Career Stats: 113 GP | 51 W | 38 L | 4 SO | 2.98 GAA | 90.2 SV%

A career third-string netminder, Alex Lyon has emerged as a solid backup, if not a 1B option, over the past couple of seasons. With the Detroit Red Wings, Lyong appeared in 77 games across two seasons, posting a 35-27-6 record with three shutouts. He should be a prominent feature in the blue paint for the Buffalo Sabres.

Landing Spot: Lyon signed with the Sabres (two years, $3 million)
71. Tanner Pearson
Team: Vegas Golden Knights

Age: 33 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 78 GP | 12 G | 15 A | 27 PTS

Career Stats: 722 GP | 150 G | 162 A | 312 PTS

Tanner Pearson put together a 12-goal and 27-point campaign last season, stopping an unflattering slide. Still, we don't know if he can replicate that success in his age-33 season. Injuries have been a limiting factor, and the left winger recorded just six goals in his previous two seasons. Pearson will try to prove us wrong with the Winnipeg Jets in 2025-26.

Landing Spot: Pearson signed with the Jets (one year, $1 million)
72. Kaapo Kahkonen
Team: Florida Panthers

Age: 29 | Position: Goaltender

2024-25 Stats: 1 GP | 0 W | 1 L | 0 SO | 4.12 GAA | 80.0 SV%

Career Stats: 140 GP | 49 W | 68 L | 4 SO | 3.34 GAA | 90.6 SV%

Last year, wasn't Kaapo Kahkonen's best. The 29-year-old netminder bounced between three organizations, spending most of his time in the minors. Nevertheless, he's proven to be a competent backup when called upon, which is exactly what the Montreal Canadiens need him to be next season.

Landing Spot: Kahkonen signed with the Canadiens (one year, $1.15 million)
73. Emil Heineman
Team: Montreal Canadiens

Age: 23 | Position: Left Wing

2024-25 Stats: 62 GP | 10 G | 8 A | 18 PTS

Career Stats: 66 GP | 10 G | 8 A | 18 PTS

The Habs cut ties with Emil Heineman this offseason, precipitating his move to the New York Islanders. The 23-year-old saw regular playing time in La Belle Province, putting up 10 goals and 18 points across 62 games. Heineman should fit in nicely with the New York Islanders and continue that upward trajectory.

Landing Spot: Heineman signed with the Islanders (two years, $2.2 million)
74. Connor Dewar
Team: Pittsburgh Penguins

Age: 26 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 48 GP | 4 G | 6 A | 10 PTS

Career Stats: 238 GP | 23 G | 30 A | 53 PTS

After falling out of favor with the Maple Leafs, Connor Dewar was dealt to the Pittsburgh Penguins partway through last season. The center finished the season with 10 points, albeit with seven of those coming in just 17 games with the Pens. He'll be looking to replicate that production on a one-year deal.

Landing Spot: Dewar re-signed with the Penguins (one year, $1.1 million)
75. Cole Koepke
Team: Boston Bruins

Age: 25 | Position: Center

2024-25 Stats: 73 GP | 10 G | 7 A | 17 PTS

Career Stats: 99 GP | 11 G | 9 A | 20 PTS

Cole Koepke tormented opponents in the AHL, but wasn't able to crack the Lightning's lineup. As such, he spent last year with the Boston Bruins, where he showed off as a solid depth scoring option. He will look to replicate that success with the Winnipeg Jets in 2025-26.

Landing Spot: Koepke signed with the Jets (one year, $1 million)
1. Mitch Marner
Team: Toronto Maple Leafs

Age: 28 | Position: Right Wing

2024-25 Stats: 81 GP | 27 G | 75 A | 102 PTS

Career Stats: 657 GP | 221 G | 520 A | 741 PTS

Mitch Marner’s time with the Toronto Maple Leafs has come to an end. The oft-maligned winger is off to Sin City after a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.

Landing Spot: Marner re-signed with the Maple Leafs but was traded to the Golden Knights (eight years, $96 million)

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