Top Remaining NHL Free Agents and Where They Could Sign

Most of the NHL’s biggest free agents have already found new homes, but several impactful players remain unsigned as the offseason enters its quieter stage. Whether they’re waiting for the right opportunity or seeking the right contract, these veterans and prime-aged players could still provide significant value to teams looking to improve before training camp.

Here are five of the biggest names still available and where they could land.

Patrick Kane Could Decide Between Familiar Homes

Patrick Kane remains the top unrestricted free agent on the market after recording 16 goals and 41 assists for 57 points last season. At 37 years old, the future Hall of Famer proved he can still drive offense and improve a team’s power play.

According to Chicago Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios, Kane’s decision appears to have narrowed to either a return to the Blackhawks or signing with his hometown Buffalo Sabres. Both destinations offer an emotional storyline. Chicago would reunite Kane with the franchise where he won three Stanley Cups, while Buffalo would allow him to finish his career close to family.

While contenders would undoubtedly welcome Kane’s services, it appears this decision may be more about legacy than chasing another championship.

Logan Stanley Has Plenty of Suitors

One of the more intriguing names available is 6-foot-7 defenseman Logan Stanley. The 28-year-old enjoyed a breakout campaign, posting career highs with nine goals and 26 points while showcasing the physical presence that has always made him appealing.

The Winnipeg Jets could still look to bring Stanley back after dealing him to Buffalo at the trade deadline, especially with Jamie Oleksiak no longer in Seattle creating another vacancy around the league for a big, shutdown defender.

Stanley is reportedly seeking a four or five-year contract worth as much as $25 million, though that asking price may have to come down as free agency continues.

Eeli Tolvanen Still Offers Upside

At just 27 years old, Eeli Tolvanen may have the most long-term value of anyone remaining on the market.

The Finnish winger followed a 23-goal season with a disappointing 12-goal campaign, but his age, defensive play, and scoring ability should still make him an attractive option for teams looking for middle-six help.

The Boston Bruins stand out as a logical landing spot. They continue searching for secondary scoring, and Tolvanen could thrive in a structured system while receiving power-play opportunities. Given his age, he may also be one of the few remaining UFAs capable of earning a multi-year contract.

Tarasenko Could Help Edmonton’s Top Six

Vladimir Tarasenko remains one of the better goal scorers still available after producing 23 goals in 75 games with the Minnesota Wild last season.

The Edmonton Oilers have been linked to veteran forwards throughout the summer, previously showing interest in Claude Giroux before he re-signed in Ottawa. With that option off the board, Tarasenko could become an ideal fallback.

Edmonton continues to search for additional scoring on the wing, and playing alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl could help Tarasenko rediscover another level offensively on a short-term contract.

John Klingberg Can Still Help the Right Team

John Klingberg’s offensive ability from the blue line continues to make him an intriguing free agent despite his defensive shortcomings.

The 33-year-old scored 10 goals in 56 games with the San Jose Sharks last season, his best offensive production in years. Teams needing power-play help and puck movement could still view him as a worthwhile gamble.

Both the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers have been mentioned as potential fits, with each club looking to strengthen the right side of its defense.

Patience May Produce the Best Deals

The remaining free-agent market still features experienced veterans, offensive contributors, and players entering their prime. As teams navigate salary-cap constraints and injuries begin to surface during training camp, opportunities will inevitably emerge.

Whether it’s Patrick Kane choosing between Buffalo and Chicago, Logan Stanley finding the long-term contract he seeks, or Tarasenko giving a contender one more scoring boost, several quality players remain available. The biggest headlines of free agency may be over, but some of the offseason’s smartest signings could still be ahead.

Next: The Real Reason These NHL Free Agents Are Still Unemployed