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Golden Knights & Maple Leafs: Marner Trade Talks Heat Up

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

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Mitch Marner Trade Talks Heat Up: Golden Knights Eye Maple leafs Star

Table of Contents

The Vegas Golden Knights are aggressively pursuing a sign-and-trade deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs to acquire star forward Mitch Marner, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman [SOURCE: Sportsnet]. As the NHL offseason intensifies, this potential move could significantly reshape both teams’ rosters for the upcoming season.

Golden Knights’ Pursuit of Marner

Vegas’s interest in Marner underscores their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. Acquiring Marner would provide an immediate boost to their offensive firepower,complementing existing stars like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone. Eichel led the team with 94 points (28 goals, 66 assists) in 77 games during the 2024-25 season [SOURCE: Hockey-Reference].

Did You Know? The Golden Knights finished with the league’s fifth-best offense this season, averaging 3.34 goals per game, despite not having a 100-point scorer.

Potential Trade Details

Forward nicolas Roy is expected to be part of the return to Toronto if the deal materializes. TSN’s Bruce Garrioch reported that the Maple leafs have also requested defenseman Nicolas Hague in the trade package [SOURCE: TSN]. these negotiations highlight the complexities of orchestrating a trade of this magnitude.

Cap Space and Contract Implications

The Golden Knights appear to be maneuvering to create sufficient cap space to accommodate Marner’s contract.With Roy potentially heading to Toronto, Vegas would gain approximately $8.6 million in cap flexibility. An additional $8.8 million could become available if defenseman alex Pietrangelo is placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), providing further financial leeway.

Pro Tip: Sign-and-trade deals are rare as they require agreement from both the player and both teams, adding layers of complexity to the negotiation process.

Impact on Team Dynamics

Adding Marner, who tallied 102 points (27 goals, 75 assists) in 81 games with a +18 rating last season, would create a dynamic offensive trio alongside Eichel and Stone. Though,the trade could weaken Vegas’s defensive depth,potentially leading to increased roles for players like ben Hutton and Kaedan Korczak.

Potential Defensive Shortcomings

Losing Hague, combined with Pietrangelo’s potential placement on LTIR, could strain the Golden Knights’ defensive corps. This situation might force the team to rely on less experienced players, posing a challenge for maintaining defensive stability throughout the season.

trade Scenarios

While the Golden Knights are actively pursuing Marner, other teams may also be in the mix. The Maple Leafs are likely evaluating all options to maximize their return and address their team needs. The potential acquisition of Noah Dobson by the Maple leafs was blocked by Marner [2].

Potential Trade Assets
Team Incoming Outgoing
Vegas Golden knights Mitch Marner Nicolas Roy, Nicolas Hague (potential)
Toronto Maple Leafs Nicolas Roy, Nicolas Hague (potential) Mitch Marner

evergreen Insights: The Evolution of NHL Trades

NHL trades have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changes in salary cap rules, player mobility, and team strategies. Sign-and-trade deals, while uncommon, offer teams a unique chance to acquire valuable assets while managing contract terms and cap space. the current landscape emphasizes strategic player acquisitions to build competitive rosters capable of contending for the Stanley Cup.

frequently Asked Questions About the Mitch Marner Trade

Why are the Vegas Golden Knights interested in trading for Mitch Marner?

The Golden Knights are looking to add an elite offensive talent like Mitch Marner to their roster to bolster their scoring capabilities and create a more dynamic offense.

What players might the Maple Leafs receive in a Mitch Marner trade with Vegas?

Potential returns for Mitch Marner in a trade with the Golden Knights could include players like nicolas Roy and Nicolas Hague, as requested by the Maple Leafs.

How much cap space do the Golden Knights have to acquire Mitch marner?

The Golden Knights could have around $8.6 million in cap space with Nicolas Roy in the trade, and an additional $8.8 million if Alex Pietrangelo is placed on long-term injured reserve, providing flexibility to sign Mitch Marner.

What impact would Mitch Marner have on the Golden Knights’ offense?

Adding Mitch Marner to a forward group featuring Jack Eichel and Mark Stone would create one of the NHL’s most potent offenses,significantly boosting Vegas’s scoring potential.

What challenges might the Golden Knights face if they trade for Mitch Marner?

Trading for Mitch Marner could weaken the Golden Knights’ defense, potentially leading to increased playing time for less experienced players like Ben Hutton and Kaedan Korczak.

What is a sign-and-trade deal in the NHL?

A sign-and-trade deal in the NHL involves a team signing a player who is about to become a free agent and then immediately trading him to another team. This allows the acquiring team to potentially add an extra year to the player’s contract.

What do you think about this potential trade? Will Marner end up in Vegas, and how will it impact both teams’ chances next season?

share your thoughts in the comments below and subscribe for more NHL updates!

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NHL rumblings: What it’d take to move Karlsson, plus latest on Tavares, Marchand, Ekblad, Bouchard

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Erik Karlsson Trade Rumors Heat Up Ahead of NHL Draft

Karlsson’s Uncertain Future

Will Erik Karlsson be traded again? Numerous factors will determine his future. The teams seeking defensive upgrades, Karlsson’s $10 million cap hit, his willingness to waive his no-move clause, and the timing of trade offers all play critical roles.

One major consideration is the $5 million signing bonus due next Tuesday, July 1. Teams might prefer to wait until after this payment before pursuing a trade. Conversely, the Penguins might be less inclined to trade him unless they receive additional assets. Also, the Sharks already retain part of Karlsson’s salary. His value could increase if he were a $7.5 million player.

Karlsson, 35, could be open to waiving his no-move clause to join a contender. This is significant, given the Penguins’ current rebuilding phase. His performance for Sweden in the 4 Nations tournament displayed his value. The coach, Sam Hallam, stated, “For me, Erik was a top-three D for the whole (4 Nations) tournament.”

Tavares and the Maple Leafs Negotiation

Negotiations between the Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares’ camp, led by agent Pat Brisson, continue. The sides are trying to reach an agreement, but time is running out. The potential of Tavares testing free agency is becoming more real, even though both parties want a deal.

Recent contracts, such as those for Matt Duchene and Brock Nelson, influence these talks. General manager Brad Treliving may point to Duchene’s AAV, while Brisson might highlight Tavares’s higher scoring. Tavares is open to taking less than market value to remain in Toronto. However, losing both Tavares and Mitch Marner would mean the loss of significant points from the past season.

Bouchard’s Contract Talks

Discussions are underway regarding Evan Bouchard, with a mutual desire to finalize an agreement. A four-year contract might make sense for the Edmonton Oilers, similar to Auston Matthews’ situation in Toronto. This approach would give Bouchard a raise and allow him to negotiate again at the peak of his career, while not crippling Edmonton’s cap.

Panthers’ Free Agent Decisions

The Florida Panthers face decisions regarding their unrestricted free agents. Sam Bennett is most likely to re-sign, followed by Brad Marchand, with Aaron Ekblad possibly testing the market.

The Panthers are likely to try to keep Marchand, whose performance in the Stanley Cup Final and excellent fit with the team has increased his chances of staying. One option to manage the cap is a long-term deal for Marchand, even considering his age. The Florida Panthers have the 10th-highest payroll in the NHL as of June 26, 2024. (CapFriendly)

Ekblad is likely to explore free agency, with no substantial contract negotiations since last summer. His style of play, while valuable, raises concerns for the Panthers concerning committing a long-term deal for the 29-year-old.

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Which NHL teams need to upgrade at center? Ranking all 32 by current quality

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

NHL Teams Evaluate Center Depth Before Free Agency

Assessing Each Team’s Strengths and Needs Down the Middle

As the offseason arrives, NHL teams are evaluating their rosters. Central to any team’s success is its depth at center, a position that shapes both offense and defense. This analysis provides a pre-free agency look at each team’s center position, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

Oilers and Golden Knights Lead the Pack

The **Edmonton Oilers**, with **Connor McDavid** and **Leon Draisaitl**, unsurprisingly top the rankings. Their need is simply a bottom-six center, making them the clear front-runner. Close behind are the **Vegas Golden Knights**, boasting a strong core of centers: **Jack Eichel**, **Tomas Hertl**, **William Karlsson**, and **Nicolas Roy**.

The **New Jersey Devils** come in third, their 1-2 punch of **Jack Hughes** and **Nico Hischier** driving their success, though their depth at 3C could be improved. The **Colorado Avalanche** benefit from **Nathan MacKinnon’s** presence, while the **Dallas Stars** are set after **Matt Duchene’s** contract extension.

Mid-Tier Teams and Their Challenges

The **Tampa Bay Lightning** require a steady 4C. The **New York Islanders** are in decent shape, especially with **Bo Horvat** and **Mathew Barzal** centering their top lines. The **Florida Panthers** have options, including the possibility of **Sam Bennett** returning. For the **Los Angeles Kings**, the focus is on the ongoing development of **Quinton Byfield** to complement **Anze Kopitar**.

The **Buffalo Sabres** look set, assuming **Tage Thompson** plays center. The **Ottawa Senators** have a promising top three led by **Tim Stützle**, but need a solid fourth-liner. The **Carolina Hurricanes**, hampered by **Jesperi Kotkaniemi**, need an upgrade to their top-six center.

The **Toronto Maple Leafs** require upgrades, especially without **John Tavares**, and lack depth. The **Detroit Red Wings** hope **Marco Kasper** continues developing to aid **Dylan Larkin**.

Teams Facing Significant Gaps

The **Washington Capitals** need a consistent performance from **Pierre-Luc Dubois**. The **Pittsburgh Penguins**, with an aging **Evgeni Malkin**, face problems. The **Minnesota Wild** might trade a 2C. The **Winnipeg Jets** have long-standing needs.

The **St. Louis Blues** require a middle-six center. The **New York Rangers’** center depth is bleak if **Mika Zibanejad** departs. The **Columbus Blue Jackets** hope for progress from young players. The **Calgary Flames** need a top-line center.

Rebuilding Teams and Their Priorities

The **Utah Mammoth** need to add high-end talent. The **Montreal Canadiens** are set at the top with **Nick Suzuki**, but have other issues. The **San Jose Sharks** need growth from their young stars. The **Chicago Blackhawks** need to see progress in their development.

The **Vancouver Canucks** are reeling from the departure of key players, and their depth has diminished. The **Seattle Kraken** are struggling with their current center lineup. The **Anaheim Ducks** need **Leo Carlsson** and **Mason McTavish** to develop, and the **Boston Bruins** need a replacement for **Patrice Bergeron** and more centers.

The **Philadelphia Flyers** desperately need a top offensive star at center. The **Nashville Predators** need to find answers. According to NHL.com, the average salary for an NHL center is $5.2 million, a key factor in team strategy and free agency considerations (NHL).

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Marner, Tavares, Toninato, Del Gaizo

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Marner Eyes Short-Term Deal, Tavares’ Future Uncertain

The NHL offseason is heating up, and a few key players are facing critical decisions. Contract negotiations will be a central focus as teams and players strategize for the upcoming season. Some are looking for long-term security, while others explore shorter-term options to maximize their value.

Marner’s Contract Strategy

Winger Mitch Marner, the top unrestricted free agent, may sign a two-year deal. According to reports, Marner is considering this approach, hoping to secure a long-term contract when the salary cap rises. The value of this potential two-year contract could surpass the average annual value of Mikko Rantanen‘s $12 million deal with Dallas.

Tavares’ Negotiations with Maple Leafs

Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs and center John Tavares are not close to agreeing on a new contract. Tavares has expressed his desire to stay in Toronto. However, the Leafs hope he will accept less money. Tavares, coming off a 38-goal season, could command $7.5 million or more on a multi-year deal if he reaches the free-agency period. The team might pursue a longer-term deal with a lower annual rate to manage its cap situation.

The average NHL player salary in 2024-25 was around $3.6 million, a rise from previous seasons, reflecting the league’s financial growth (Statista).

Other Key Players in the Mix

Center Dominic Toninato has dropped his agent and will represent himself in negotiations this summer. After five seasons with the Jets, much of his time has been spent in the AHL. He is likely to sign a two-way deal with the team soon.

Defenseman Marc Del Gaizo won’t be re-signing with the Predators. He’ll test the market, becoming a Group Six free agent. Del Gaizo played 44 games with Nashville, and will seek an opportunity elsewhere.

As the free agency period approaches, the decisions made by these players will significantly impact the NHL landscape. Teams are carefully weighing their options to strengthen their rosters and stay competitive in the coming seasons.

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Maple Leafs Free Agency: 8 Under-the-Radar Targets

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Maple Leafs Eyeing Underrated Free Agents to Bolster Roster

Table of Contents

As the free agency period approaches,the Toronto Maple Leafs are strategically evaluating a pool of underrated players to enhance their roster depth.While the free agent market may lack marquee superstars beyond Mitch Marner, it compensates with a wealth of quality depth that could significantly benefit the Leafs in the upcoming season. The focus is on identifying versatile players who can contribute in various roles and bring a multifaceted skill set to the team.

Potential Free Agent Targets for the Maple Leafs

Several players have emerged as potential fits for the Maple Leafs,offering a blend of skill,physicality,and versatility that aligns with the team’s needs.These players could provide valuable contributions across different lines and special teams, addressing key areas for improvement.

Anthony Beauvillier: Versatile Top-Nine Winger

Anthony Beauvillier stands out as a malleable forward capable of playing various roles within the top nine. despite his smaller stature (5-foot-11, 180 pounds), Beauvillier brings a tenacious edge to his game, particularly on the forecheck. His offensive capabilities are evident in his consistent goal-scoring record, having reached the 15-20 goal mark in six of the past eight seasons. Beauvillier excels in high-danger scoring areas, ranking in the NHL’s 91st percentile for high-danger shots last season. His playoff experience, with 18 goals in 65 games, further underscores his value as a versatile and impactful player. Beauvillier’s ability to adapt to different line combinations and provide offensive contributions makes him an attractive option for the Leafs.

Did You Know? Beauvillier has played alongside stars like Alex Ovechkin, showcasing his adaptability and ability to contribute in various roles.

Nicolas Jeannot: Reclaiming Early Promise

Nicolas Jeannot, known for his physicality and scoring touch, presents a high-risk, high-reward option.After a standout rookie season with 24 goals and 318 hits, Jeannot’s production has declined, partly due to limited opportunities. Last season with the Kings, he played primarily on the fourth line, averaging 11 minutes per game, scoring seven goals, and recording 211 hits in 67 games.The potential lies in providing Jeannot with increased playing time and better linemates to unlock his offensive potential. However, his expected contract demands, around $3 million, require careful consideration. The Leafs would be betting on Jeannot’s ability to recapture his early-career form with the right opportunity.

Andrew Mangiapane: Top-Nine Winger with Scoring Upside

Andrew mangiapane,a former sixth-round pick by the Flames,has proven his ability to contribute offensively,highlighted by a 35-goal season. While that season remains an outlier, Mangiapane has consistently delivered 14-18 goals per season. His offensive capabilities,combined with playmaking skills,energy,speed,and tenacious forechecking,make him a valuable asset. Mangiapane’s production dipped in washington last season (14 goals, 28 points), but he spent most of the year in the bottom six. with increased playing time and more offensive zone starts,Mangiapane could potentially reach 20 goals and 40 points in a middle-six role. As a Toronto native, mangiapane could bring additional motivation and familiarity to the Leafs.

Nick Perbix: upside on the Third Pair

Nick Perbix, a 27-year-old right-shooting defenseman, offers potential upside on the Leafs’ blue line. Despite averaging less than 15 minutes per game on the Tampa Bay Lightning’s third pair last season, Perbix scored six goals and recorded 19 points, showcasing his offensive capabilities. His size (6-foot-4, over 200 pounds) and physical presence align with Treliving’s preferences. Perbix could potentially contribute on the second power-play unit and develop into a top-four defenseman over time. His offensive instincts and physical attributes make him an intriguing option for the Leafs’ defensive corps.

Eric Robinson: Middle-Six Winger with Speed and Physicality

Eric Robinson, a big, speedy, and physical winger, offers a blend of scoring and defensive capabilities. He scored nine of his 14 goals last season from high-danger zones,demonstrating his ability to generate offense in key areas. Robinson’s size (6-foot-2,over 200 pounds) and speed (ranking in the NHL’s 83rd percentile) make him a valuable asset in Berube’s system.additionally,Robinson’s penalty-killing experience with the Hurricanes’ premier penalty-killing unit adds to his versatility and value. He presents a similar profile to Steven Lorentz but with potentially more offensive upside and a lower cost.

Jeff Skinner: Goal-Scoring Upside

Jeff Skinner, despite a challenging season with the oilers, offers meaningful goal-scoring potential. Even with limited playing time (13 minutes per night), Skinner scored 16 goals last season. In the three previous seasons with Buffalo, he scored 33, 35, and 24 goals, showcasing his offensive capabilities when given more opportunity. Skinner could potentially thrive as a second-line left wing in Toronto,depending on the team’s center acquisitions. However, his age (33) and lack of physicality raise concerns about his fit in Berube’s system. The Leafs would be betting on Skinner’s ability to rediscover his scoring touch and outperform his contract.

Reilly Smith: Versatile Veteran with Playoff experience

Reilly Smith, a smart and versatile veteran, brings a wealth of experience and a well-rounded skill set. He excels defensively, supports skilled linemates, and contributes offensively. Smith can play in various roles, including top-six, bottom-six, power play, and penalty kill. His extensive playoff experience (117 games,83 points) underscores his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Smith’s leadership and adaptability make him a valuable addition to any team. A short-term deal at around $5 million would make sense for the Leafs.

Pro Tip: Teams that win consistently frequently enough have players like Smith who can contribute in all situations.

Other potential additions

Several other players could provide value to the Maple leafs, depending on their specific needs and budget:

  • Mason Appleton: A Winnipeg Jets favorite known for his two-way play and ability to match up against top lines.
  • Connor Brown: A dependable and feisty winger capable of playing on all four lines and contributing to the penalty kill.
  • Justin Brazeau: A large (6-foot-6, 227 pounds) forward with scoring potential.
  • Nick Bjugstad: A center best suited for fourth-line duty, offering size (6-foot-5) and mild offensive upside.
  • Nick Cousins: A pesky forward who can provide depth and energy.
  • Sean Kuraly: A competitive and physical player who brings attitude and bite to the lineup.
  • Oliver Kylington: A mobile defenseman with offensive potential.
  • Trevor Lewis: A physical and no-nonsense fourth-line forward.
  • Victor Olofsson: A goal-scoring winger with top-six potential.
  • Corey Perry: A veteran with a proven track record of success in the playoffs, offering leadership and versatility.
  • Brandon Tanev: A physical pest who can kill penalties,block shots,and contribute offensively from the bottom six.

Contract Values

The Leafs will need to be mindful of contract values as they pursue these free agents. With the salary cap increasing, competition for players will be fierce, and the Leafs will need to find value in order to maximize their resources. According to CapFriendly,the NHL’s salary cap for the 2024-25 season is $88 million. CapFriendly

Conclusion

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a range of options to improve their roster through free agency. By targeting underrated players with specific skill sets and versatility, the Leafs can add valuable depth and address key areas for improvement. The success of these acquisitions will depend on careful evaluation, strategic contract negotiations, and the ability to integrate these players into the team’s system.

Potential Free Agent Targets: Key Attributes
Player Position Key Attributes
Anthony Beauvillier Winger Versatility, Tenacity, Scoring
Nicolas Jeannot Winger Physicality, Scoring potential
andrew Mangiapane Winger Offense, Playmaking, energy
Nick Perbix Defenseman Size, Offense, Upside
Eric Robinson winger Speed, Physicality, Penalty Killing
Jeff Skinner Winger Goal Scoring
Reilly Smith Winger Versatility, Experience, Leadership

The Importance of Depth in Hockey

In professional hockey, a team’s success is frequently enough determined by its depth. while star players are crucial, a strong supporting cast can make the difference between a playoff contender and a Stanley Cup champion. Depth players provide valuable contributions in various roles,including scoring,defense,penalty killing,and physical play. they also provide injury insurance,ensuring that the team can maintain its performance level even when key players are sidelined.The Toronto Maple Leafs recognize the importance of depth and are actively seeking to add quality players to their roster through free agency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Leafs Free Agency

What are the Toronto Maple Leafs looking for in free agency?

The Maple Leafs are primarily seeking to add depth and versatility to their roster. They are targeting players who can contribute in various roles, including scoring, defense, penalty killing, and physical play. The team is also looking for players who can provide injury insurance and maintain the team’s performance level when key players are sidelined.

Who are some potential free agent targets for the Maple Leafs?

Some potential free agent targets for the Maple Leafs include Anthony Beauvillier, Nicolas Jeannot, Andrew Mangiapane, Nick Perbix, Eric Robinson, Jeff Skinner, and Reilly Smith.These players offer a blend of skill, physicality, and versatility that aligns with the team’s needs.

How crucial is depth in hockey?

Depth is crucial in hockey. A strong supporting cast can make the difference between a playoff contender and a Stanley Cup champion. Depth players provide valuable contributions in various roles and provide injury insurance.

What is the NHL salary cap for the 2024-25 season?

The NHL salary cap for the 2024-25 season is $88 million. This figure will influence the Maple Leafs’ decisions as they pursue free agents.

Why are the Maple Leafs focusing on underrated free agents?

The Maple Leafs are focusing on underrated free agents to find value and maximize their resources. while the free agent market may lack marquee superstars, it compensates with a wealth of quality depth that could significantly benefit the Leafs in the upcoming season.

What qualities do you think are most important for the Maple Leafs to add this offseason? Which of these potential free agents would you most like to see in a Leafs uniform?

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NHL Free Agency 2025: Top Targets for Every Team

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

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Did You Know? …

Pro Tip: …

With NHL free agency just around the corner on July 1, teams are strategizing to bolster their rosters. Which pending UFA do you think woudl make the biggest impact? What team needs a shakeup the most?

NHL Free Agency Frenzy: Top UFA Targets for Each Team

Table of Contents

As NHL free agency approaches, teams are eyeing potential acquisitions to strengthen their lineups. With prominent names like Mitch marner, Aaron Ekblad, and Nikolaj Ehlers headlining the list of pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs), the upcoming weeks promise meaningful roster moves. This article,inspired by insights from The Athletic, highlights one UFA each team should target this summer to address their specific needs and elevate their competitiveness in the league. The focus is on strategic acquisitions that align with team goals and improve overall performance.

Anaheim ducks

Brock Boeser

If Marner isn’t in play, Boeser could be a good Plan B who isn’t nearly as costly. He’ll get paid and could surpass Troy Terry’s team-high $7 million AAV. But the Ducks’ salary scale wouldn’t be thrown off, and they would get a shooter whose down year of 25 goals last season would have led Anaheim. Beckett Sennecke, the no. 3 pick in 2024, won’t need to be rushed.- Eric Stephens

Boston Bruins

Mitch Marner

Who would want to play against a team that rolls David Pastrnak on one shift and Marner the next? The Bruins would be top-heavy with two difference-making right wings. But in a good way. – Fluto Shinzawa

Buffalo Sabres

Aaron Ekblad

The Sabres’ biggest need is a right-shot defenseman capable of playing in the top four. Ekblad is the best player available who fits that description.He comes with an established track record playing for a winning team to go with a physical edge. He’s also only 29,so he should still have some good seasons left in him. – Matthew Fairburn

calgary Flames

Nikolaj Ehlers

A goal-scoring winger with speed and skating in his arsenal. He makes a ton of sense for Calgary if he’s willing to remain in Canada.Boeser could be another option.The goal is for Calgary to get someone younger and not chase after mid-30s players who keep them away from that goal. – Julian McKenzie


Mitch marner is a defensively responsible forward who is hardworking and can be used in all situations. (Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images)

Carolina Hurricanes

Mitch Marner

Marner would fit the Hurricanes’ style and give the team an elite point producer. he’s a defensively responsible forward who is hardworking and can be used in all situations. While there is a case for Carolina upgrading at center over another wing, the team could accomplish its longtime pursuit of landing a superstar by landing Marner this offseason. – Cory Lavalette

Chicago Blackhawks

Mitch Marner

Marner is probably a long shot, and the blackhawks may not even sign a significant unrestricted free agent.It’s possible they’ll be more aggressive in trying to acquire someone through trade. But of the current UFAs, Marner is the one who makes the most sense from age and talent standpoints.- Scott powers

Colorado Avalanche

Dante Fabbro

After signing Brock Nelson to an extension, Colorado has its core under contract, but also very little cap space to work with. the Avs should be looking to upgrade the fringes with a good value signing, and Fabbro could be perfect. He’s 26, a strong skater and played well with Norris Trophy finalist Zach Werenski this year. He’d be a great addition if Colorado could find a way to fit his contract. – Jesse Granger

Columbus Blue Jackets

Aaron Ekblad

the Blue Jackets want to bolster their blue line, and the right side needs the most help. Ekblad would be a perfect fit, whether he pairs with Werenski on the top pair or with youngster Denton Mateychuk on the second pair.The right side has been a sore spot as Seth Jones was traded to Chicago, but Ekblad could help give the Jackets two major minute-munchers, one on each side. – Aaron Portzline

Dallas Stars

Aaron ekblad

Miro Heiskanen is capable of playing on his off side; he’s been doing it for years. But the Stars could use a good right-handed shot, and Ekblad fits the bill. He could slot in alongside Thomas Harley or Esa Lindell and give Dallas a terrific top four. But making the money work will be difficult,especially if Jim Nill plans to re-sign Matt Duchene and captain Jamie Benn. – Mark Lazerus

NHL Free Agency 2025: Top Targets for Every Team


Vladislav Gavrikov is one of the league’s best defensive defensemen. (Luke Hales / Getty Images)

Detroit Red Wings

Vladislav Gavrikov

While a top-line winger would be the more exciting add, Detroit needs a top-four defenseman, and Gavrikov would be the dream fit. He’s one of the league’s best defensive defensemen, is used to taking tough minutes and has familiarity with Todd McLellan and Trent Yawney from Los Angeles. Putting Gavrikov next to Moritz Seider would make for a fearsome defensive pairing. – Max Bultman

Edmonton Oilers

Connor Brown

It’s a boring answer, but sometimes there’s nothing wrong with boring. Brown has become one of the heartbeats of the team as a penalty killer and role player who can move up in the lineup. He loves being an Oiler, his former agent runs the team and he surely won’t break the bank. That’s vital, considering the oilers don’t have an abundance of cap space. – Daniel Nugent-Bowman

Florida Panthers

Sam Bennett

Why mess with success? That goes for both sides, too. If Bennett wants to max out – and some team will be more than happy to offer the prospect – it’ll be time to say goodbye. Is it that outrageous to think that Florida paying him, say, $7 million a season should be out of the question? The fit is perfect, and there (as usual) aren’t a ton of plug-and-play down-the-middle options on the market. – Sean Gentille

Los Angeles Kings

Vladislav Gavrikov

With Rob Blake as the kings’ GM, it felt like a foregone conclusion that Gavrikov would be re-signed, but that’s no longer the case with ken Holland. If Holland isn’t keen on throwing many years and big money at Gavrikov, the 29-year-old defensive bedrock, trading for the younger Bowen Byram (or perhaps Nicolas Hague) might be necessary if they also make a big move, such as taking a run at Marner. – Eric Stephens

Minnesota Wild

John Tavares

The Wild’s main need is up the middle,and now they’re on Plan B after target Nelson re-signed with the Avalanche. Tavares’ priority has been to stay in Toronto, but if he gets to market, he’d give Minnesota the experienced, two-way center who could take some pressure off Joel Eriksson Ek. The Wild need to get Tavares,duchene or Jonathan Toews to address the position,especially after missing out on Nelson. – Joe Smith


Dante Fabbro is young, shoots from the right side, should be relatively inexpensive and did some good things with the Blue Jackets. (Jason Mowry / Getty Images)

Montreal Canadiens

Dante Fabbro

Fabbro might not make it to July 1, as the reasons why Montreal might want him are the same reasons Columbus would want to keep him: he’s young, shoots from the right side, should be relatively inexpensive and did some good things with the Blue Jackets. The Canadiens have a need on the right side of their blue line with the retirement of David Savard. – Arpon Basu

Nashville Predators

Sam Bennett

It’s doubtful Bennett will be available, but if he is, the Predators should be all over him. He’s a proven playoff performer who plays with an edge and can score. He’s also a good fit with the team’s identity. – Pierre LeBrun

New Jersey Devils

Tyler Bertuzzi

The Devils need to add some grit and toughness to their lineup, and Bertuzzi would bring that in spades. He’s also a skilled player who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

New York Islanders

Jonathan Drouin

The Islanders need to add some skill and creativity to their lineup, and Drouin would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

New York Rangers

Jake Guentzel

The Rangers need to add some scoring depth to their lineup, and Guentzel would bring that in spades. He’s also a proven playoff performer who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

Ottawa Senators

Matt Duchene

The Senators need to add some experience and leadership to their lineup, and Duchene would bring that in spades. He’s also a skilled player who can score goals and make plays. He’s a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

Philadelphia Flyers

Chris Tanev

The Flyers need to add some defensive stability to their lineup, and tanev would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – pierre LeBrun

Pittsburgh Penguins

Jason Zucker

The Penguins need to add some scoring depth to their lineup, and Zucker would bring that in spades. He’s also a good fit with the team’s style of play. – Pierre LeBrun

San Jose Sharks

Joe Pavelski

The Sharks need to add some experience and leadership to their lineup,

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