Notable Names Still Unsigned as NHL Free Agency Rolls On: What We’re Hearing

Day one of free agency produced plenty of headline moves. Darnell Nurse, Vincent Trocheck, Devon Levi, and Dennis Hildeby were traded, while Zach Werenski was not. Big names signed, but a surprising number of proven scorers remain on the board. There was even an offer sheet.

On day two, more action is expected as several forwards who topped 15 points last season are still searching for a new home as teams work through their remaining budgets.

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The most eye-catching name on the list is Alex Ovechkin, the league’s all-time goals leader, who remains unsigned as he weighs his next chapter. Darren Dreger reported during an appearance on OverDrive that ‘all indications’ are that Ovechkin’s NHL career has concluded. However, GM Chris Patrick said during an exclusive 1-on-1 on ESPN, “I think we can do something that would work for Alex. There are ways to get him the money he needs.”

Patrick Kane and Claude Giroux, two more future Hall of Famers with extensive playoff résumés, are also still available. Kane might be leaning towards a new deal with the Buffalo Sabres. Giroux is deciding between a Philadelphia Flyers reunion and going back to the Ottawa Senators. The Senators are keeping the door open and said there’s a spot on the team if he wants one.

Beyond that trio, the market still has real depth. Jamie Benn, Vladimir Tarasenko, Evander Kane and David Perron all bring scoring pedigree and playoff experience, while Anthony Mantha might be most prolific goal scorer of the bunch still unsigned. ,

Reilly Smith and Adam Henrique offer proven secondary offense for teams looking to round out a top nine. Michael Bunting, James van Riemsdyk and Jonathan Drouin add further scoring depth, and Tanner Pearson, Tyson Jost, Eeli Tolvanen, Philipp Kurashev and Oskar Sundqvist round out a group of useful complementary forwards still on the board.

Where Will These Players Land?

With several contenders already having addressed their top-line needs through trades and big-ticket signings Wednesday, this remaining pool could increasingly become a market for teams chasing affordable depth or a value bet on a bounce-back season. For a handful of these players — Ovechkin, Giroux, and [Patrick] Kane chief among them — it’s about where to continue what will be the last legs of their respective careers.

Expect this list to shrink quickly over the coming days. Some will become value additions on teams that need to get to the salary cap floor. Some will sign one-year “prove it” deals. Some may even retire.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Maple Leafs, Oilers & Canadiens With Huge Free Agency Wins