It's the middle of the summer and training camp is set to roll around in about a month's time. Many National Hockey League teams look to boost their roster after disappointing seasons, while others look to rebuild and generate a bright future. Here are the top free agents still available:
1. Patrice Bergeron
Bergeron has been a staple in the Boston Bruins lineup since the 2003-04 season, when he made his NHL debut. Bergeron, who turns 37 later this July, has yet to sign an NHL contract and no one knows if he will return. After the Bruins were eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs last season, many wondered if the Quebec native had played his last NHL game. If Bergeron was to return to the NHL, it would only be to the Boston Bruins. Bergeron has proved to be a loyal and dedicated player for his Boston team. The Bruins captain is coming off a Selke winning season while also scoring 25 goals and 40 assists. Many people also inquire as to whether an agreement has been reached, but because the Bruins are cash-strapped, the contract has been delayed.
2. Nazem Kadri
The now Stanley Cup champion, Kadri, was a staple in Colorado's top-six. The London, Ontario native is set for a pay raise, but to which team? This past season, Kadri broke a new career high in points. The winger played in 71 games while scoring 28 goals and assisting 59 times. Kadri played big minutes on a loaded Avs team, averaging just above 19 minutes a night. The 31-year-old is coming off a $4 million contract and is projected to make upwards of $9 million.
3. John Klingberg
Since the 2014-15 season, Klingberg has been a mainstay on the Dallas Stars team. The Swedish defensive player makes up for his lacklustre defensive style with an excellent set of offensive abilities. Klingberg has regressed offensively since his career-high of 67 points during the 2017-18 season. Sources have also leaked that the Gothenburg, Sweden native even requested a trade out of Dallas. Klingberg played first-line minutes last season, averaging just over 22 minutes per night. Offensively, Klingberg put up 47 points in 74 games, although he was rated as an atrocious -28. It is unlikely that Klingberg returns to Dallas, any team would be grateful to sign Klingberg.
4. Phil Kessel
The former superstar is coming off a solid season in the desert. For the Coyotes for the 2021-22 season, Kessel led the team in assists with 44. Kessel is a highly offensive winger with a wicked shot and playmaking abilities. The 34-year-old will likely not return to Arizona and will test the free agent market. Kessel provides teams with secondary scoring while being a candidate to play on any top power play unit.
Other Notable UFA's:
- P.K. Subban
- Nino Niederreiter
- Paul Stastny
- Sonny Milano