Anticipation is already building for the 2026 NHL free-agent market. While the frenzy of the 2025 signing period has just concluded, attention is quickly shifting to the next crop of potential unrestricted free agents (UFAs). Many top players eligible in July 2026 could re-sign with their current teams. However, history shows some prominent names always reach the open market, ready to explore new opportunities or chase a bigger payday.
Looking ahead, the summer of 2026 appears poised to feature a wealth of offensive talent among forwards. Goaltending could also see a few reliable veteran starters available. The market for quality defensemen, however, looks potentially thin. This early preview highlights eight notable stars who are currently on track for UFA status next July, focusing on players generally considered in their prime or still highly impactful.
The Potential 2026 NHL Free Agent Landscape
Following the dust settling on the 2025 NHL free agency period, hockey analysts and fans alike are already peering into the future. The list of players potentially hitting the unrestricted free agent market in 2026 is headlined by some truly elite talent. While re-signings are always likely, the possibility of these stars becoming available makes for compelling speculation. These players represent a mix of established veterans and players in their peak performance years. Let’s explore who could be testing the market.
It’s important to note that this list excludes iconic veterans like Alex Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin. Both players will be nearing 40 by the summer of 2026. Their NHL futures are less certain, with potential retirement on the horizon rather than signing with a new team. The focus here is on players whose performance levels suggest they will command significant interest and contracts if they don’t extend with their current clubs.
Top Potential 2026 NHL Unrestricted Free Agents
Here are eight players who could headline the UFA class in the summer of 2026, offering a glimpse into how teams might strategize around their potential availability.
Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Florida Panthers
Sergei Bobrovsky signed a landmark seven-year contract with a $10 million average annual value (AAV) in 2019. This made him one of the league’s highest-paid goaltenders at the time. Despite facing some initial challenges with the Panthers, he has emphatically delivered in recent years. He backstopped the team to consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2024 and 2025.
Bobrovsky stands as one of only two active goalies holding multiple Vezina Trophies, though these were earned during his tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His exceptional playoff performances during Florida’s back-to-back Cup runs have significantly bolstered his already strong Hall of Fame candidacy.
Now 36 years old, Bobrovsky is entering the final season of his current deal. Even at this stage of his career, maintaining a solid performance in 2025-26 would make him a prime target in next summer’s market. While his age suggests long-term deals are unlikely, teams could offer him a one-year contract. This might be structured as a bonus-laden “35-plus” deal.
Alternatively, he could potentially secure a two or three-year contract. The AAV on such a deal would likely be lower than his current cap hit. Based on his recent performance, projections suggest an annual value possibly between $7 million and $8 million.
Kyle Connor, LW, Winnipeg Jets
Just a couple of years ago, Winnipeg Jets stars Connor Hellebucyk and Mark Scheifele were nearing unrestricted free agency. Speculation was rife that the Jets might lose one or both players in the 2024 UFA class. However, both ultimately signed long-term extensions to remain in Winnipeg. Jets fans are undoubtedly hoping for a similar outcome with Kyle Connor before next summer.
The 28-year-old left wing is heading into the final year of his seven-year contract. This deal carries an annual cap hit of $7.1 million. Connor has provided exceptional value for that investment. Since the 2019-20 season, he leads the Jets in total goals (217), points (454), and game-winning goals (47). His goal total ranks sixth among all NHL scorers over that period.
Connor’s consistent, high-level production positions him for a substantial raise on his next contract. He could potentially command upwards of $12 million annually on the open market. Teams seeking a prolific first-line winger would heavily pursue him. While Hellebuyck and Scheifele accepted less than market value to stay and buy into the Jets’ vision, the appeal of a massive contract elsewhere could be very persuasive for Connor.
Thatcher Demko, G, Vancouver Canucks
Thatcher Demko and the Vancouver Canucks enjoyed a fantastic 2023-24 season. The Canucks achieved their third-best record in franchise history with 109 points. Demko’s outstanding goaltending was a key factor in this success. Limited by injuries to just 32 games in 2022-23, Demko bounced back with a career-best showing in 2023-24.
He finished among the league leaders with 35 wins, a .918 save percentage, and five shutouts. His stellar play earned him a nomination as a Vezina Trophy finalist that year. Unfortunately, a nagging lower-body injury impacted Demko again in 2024-25. This limited him to 23 games and contributed to the Canucks missing the playoffs. The team signed Kevin Lankinen, whose strong performance led to a four-year extension.
Demko is now entering the final year of his five-year contract, which has an average annual value of $5 million. If he can remain healthy and replicate his 2023-24 form in the 2025-26 season, he could put himself in line for another five-year deal. This time, however, it would come with a significant salary increase. Should Demko and the Canucks part ways next summer, he would attract interest from teams needing an experienced starting goalie. His history of lower-body injuries will be a consideration. Despite that, he could still command around $8 million annually on the open market.
Jack Eichel, C, Vegas Golden Knights
Acquired by the Vegas Golden Knights from the Buffalo Sabres in November 2021, Jack Eichel quickly became the team’s premier offensive force. The 28-year-old center has led the Golden Knights in scoring in two of the last three seasons. Injuries limited him to 63 games in 2023-24, otherwise, he likely would have led the team again.
The 2024-25 season marked Eichel’s most productive NHL campaign to date. He appeared in 77 games, recording a team-leading 66 assists and 94 points. These totals set new single-season franchise records for the Golden Knights. Eichel’s most significant contribution came in 2023, when he was instrumental in helping Vegas capture their first-ever Stanley Cup. He led all players in that postseason with 20 assists and 26 points.
Injuries have been a recurring issue throughout Eichel’s 10-season NHL career. Nevertheless, when healthy, he is an elite playmaker. He possesses the ability to elevate his game significantly in high-pressure situations, especially during the playoffs. Contending teams in search of a first-line scoring center in his prime would aggressively pursue Eichel if he becomes available. He is completing an eight-year contract with an annual cap hit of $10 million. Despite his injury history, he is projected to secure a contract worth between $14 million and $15 million annually from a team looking to add a top-tier center.
Kirill Kaprizov, LW, Minnesota Wild
Affectionately nicknamed “Dollar Dollar Bill Kirill” early in his career, Kirill Kaprizov has lived up to the moniker for the Minnesota Wild. Since his NHL debut in 2020-21, he has arguably become the most dynamic and exciting player in franchise history. In his sophomore season in 2021-22, Kaprizov set single-season Wild records with 47 goals, 61 assists, and 108 points. While injuries sidelined him for notable stretches in both 2022-23 and 2024-25, his impact is undeniable. His 1.21 points-per-game average ranks 10th among all NHL skaters since he entered the league.
The Wild have yet to win a playoff series during Kaprizov’s tenure. However, his individual performance cannot be faulted. He leads the team in postseason scoring over that period with 15 goals and 21 points. Kaprizov is currently in the final season of his five-year contract, carrying an average annual value of $9 million. Given his dazzling offensive skills, explosive skating, and proven ability to produce, Kaprizov is poised for a significant raise on his next deal.
While his recent injury history is a legitimate concern for potential suitors, it is unlikely to deter teams from bidding aggressively for his services. Should he reach the open market and the Wild are unwilling to meet his price, he could potentially land a contract worth around $15 million annually. His status as a top-tier forward could even see him feature on potential national team rosters like the projected Team Germany for the 2026 Olympics, underscoring his elite standing.
Adrian Kempe, W, Los Angeles Kings
While perhaps not as widely recognized as long-time Kings captain Anze Kopitar, Adrian Kempe has been a crucial component of Los Angeles’s success. He has played a vital role in establishing the Kings as a consistent playoff contender over the past four seasons. The 6’2″, 200-pound winger is a skilled, well-rounded forward. Last season, he led the Kings in points with 73 and also led all their forwards in average ice time per game, skating 19:09.
This marked the second consecutive year Kempe led the Kings in scoring. Since emerging as a top offensive threat in 2021-22, he leads the team in total goals (139), game-winning goals (22), and shorthanded goals (10). He ranks second in both points (269) and plus-minus (plus-55) during that span.
Kempe is completing a four-year contract with an AAV of $5.5 million. At 28 years old, he is entering unrestricted free agency looking for a long-term deal and a significant salary increase reflecting his value. On the open market, he could realistically expect to command around $9 million annually. His combination of scoring ability, defensive responsibility, and physicality makes him a desirable player for many teams.
Artemi Panarin, W, New York Rangers
The 2024-25 season was not a fond one for the New York Rangers. A year after securing the Presidents’ Trophy, they failed to qualify for the playoffs amidst significant roster changes and turmoil. Artemi Panarin’s personal production saw a dip, falling from a career-best 120 points in 2023-24 to 89 points in 2024-25. Despite this drop, the 33-year-old winger still led the Rangers in scoring for the sixth consecutive year.
Over that period, Panarin has been one of the NHL’s most consistently productive forwards. He ranks fourth overall in total points since the 2019-20 season with 550. Panarin is entering the final season of his seven-year contract, which carries an annual cap hit of $11.6 million. He will turn 34 when that contract expires in the summer of 2026. Given the current management’s focus on retooling the roster, the elite playmaking winger might not align with the club’s long-term strategic plans.
While Panarin is one of the older players on this list, he remains among the league’s top offensive talents and playmakers. If the Rangers decide to move in a different direction and he hits free agency, numerous teams would eagerly pursue his offensive capabilities. At this stage of his career, Panarin is unlikely to receive another seven-year contract. However, if his production continues to hover around the 90-100 point mark, he could realistically sign a three or four-year deal. The projected annual value could fall between $10 million and $11 million.
Connor McDavid, C, Edmonton Oilers
Considered by many to be the greatest player of his generation and the undisputed face of the NHL, Connor McDavid potentially reaching free agency in his prime would be a seismic event. Now 28 years old, the Edmonton Oilers center would represent the most coveted prize in any free-agent market. His list of individual accolades is extensive. He is a five-time Art Ross Trophy winner, a four-time Ted Lindsay Award recipient, a three-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner, and has also captured the Maurice Richard Trophy and the Conn Smythe Trophy.
However, the one significant achievement missing from McDavid’s illustrious resume is a Stanley Cup championship. He has openly stated that winning is his ultimate priority. The long-time Oilers captain could potentially depart Edmonton next summer. This move would be motivated by a belief that his best chance to win hockey’s most elusive trophy lies with another organization.
Virtually every NHL team would covet having McDavid on their roster. However, they must be prepared to make an unprecedented financial commitment. He is currently completing an eight-year contract with an average annual value of $12.5 million. Given his status as the undisputed best player in the world, McDavid is widely expected to seek a contract that establishes him as the NHL’s highest-paid player. The term could vary, potentially shorter to give him another shot at free agency while still elite. However, projections suggest his annual cap hit could reach an astonishing $20 million. His potential inclusion on Team Canada’s projected 2026 Olympic roster further emphasizes his peerless position in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of players are available in 2026 NHL free agency?
The potential 2026 NHL unrestricted free agent class looks strong in several key areas. It’s expected to feature a significant number of high-scoring forwards. There could also be a couple of reliable veteran starting goaltenders available. The market for top-tier defensemen appears less deep compared to forwards. Elite names like Connor McDavid and Kirill Kaprizov highlight the potential offensive firepower.
Which teams might pursue these top 2026 NHL free agents?
Teams with significant salary cap space will be the primary suitors. Contending teams seeking a final piece, or rebuilding teams looking for a superstar centerpiece, could target these players. For instance, teams needing a top center might chase Jack Eichel or Connor McDavid (though few can afford him). Teams needing scoring wingers could look at Kyle Connor or Artemi Panarin. Goalie-needy teams might inquire about Sergei Bobrovsky or Thatcher Demko if they reach the market.
What kind of contracts are these 2026 NHL free agents expected to get?
Contract values vary significantly based on the player. Elite, in-prime players like Connor McDavid could command a historic AAV, potentially around $20 million. Other top forwards like Jack Eichel or Kirill Kaprizov might seek deals around $14-15 million annually. High-scoring wingers like Kyle Connor and Artemi Panarin could fall in the $10-12 million range. Veteran goalies like Sergei Bobrovsky might get shorter terms at $7-8 million AAV, while a younger starter like Thatcher Demko could command a similar AAV but on a longer term if healthy. Adrian Kempe could push for $9 million.
Conclusion
While the summer of 2026 is still some time away, the potential list of unrestricted free agents offers plenty of intrigue. From generational talents like Connor McDavid to proven winners like Sergei Bobrovsky and dynamic scorers like Kirill Kaprizov, the market could feature players capable of dramatically altering a team’s fortunes. Re-signings will undoubtedly thin the herd. However, history suggests several of these top players will test the open market, setting the stage for potentially blockbuster signings and significant shifts in the NHL landscape. Keep an eye on these names as the 2025-26 season progresses; their performance and contract status will be major storylines leading up to July 1, 2026.
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