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Three captivating NHL unrestricted free agents available on the market
Patrick Kane. Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Three captivating NHL unrestricted free agents available on the market

By Vanessa Serrao  |  Last updated Jul 3, 2026 6:16 PM ET
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The NHL free-agent market has been buzzing over the past few days with several unrestricted free agents (UFA's) getting signed even before the market was open for business on July 1.

Some significant UFA's that have been snagged off the market have been goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, who signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs, while veteran defensemen Jacob Trouba and John Carlson signed with the San Jose Sharks and the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

But it is now the third day, and the market is still filled with compelling UFA's available for teams to acquire, and the busy activity is expected to continue as general managers on the first day alone splurged close to a billion dollars on NHL contracts. 

Let's take a look at three intriguing NHL UFA's who are still available on the market and are looking for homes for the 2026-2027 season. 

Anthony Mantha

Following his 30+ goal season for the Penguins, Anthony Mantha has been one of the top free agents on the market. According to AFP Analytics, he is anticipated to land a four-year deal worth $6.35 MM per season. 

The 31-year-old recorded 33 goals with 31 assists and 64 points across 81 games in the regular season. But in the playoffs, his dominance vanished, as he was only able to provide one assist across six games. 

While he is one of the top wingers available on the market, teams have hesitated to offer him the prosperous long-term contract he is seeking due to his injury history and inconsistency. 

However, he did uphold a high 21.7% shooting percentage for the Penguins, but whether he could sustain this throughout a four or five-year span remains questionable. But if he's signed on a short-term deal, then this could make his value more riveting. 

Patrick Kane

Winger Patrick Kane, 37, continues to be a premier offensive catalyst despite his age. He logged 57 points across 67 games for the Red Wings, including 41 assists. 

As well, his top-tier 5-on-5 scoring metrics have illustrated how he's a high-end set-up man that fuels secondary offense. NHL teams who are looking to add a veteran who has high-caliber MVP playoff experience that's been rewarded with three Stanley Cup rings. 

He is also known for his proficiency with puck-handling, which would make him a suitable fit for contending teams looking to make a run in the playoffs this upcoming season.

The Maple Leafs are one of the teams that have come up as a potential landing spot, as well as the Buffalo Sabres, New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks. The veteran is expected to finalize his decision in the next few days.

Patrik Laine

As a dominant power-play weapon, the 28-year-old sniper has a proven track record of providing 25 to 30 goals and 50+ points per season. This undeniably makes him an alluring and valuable asset for teams looking to add top-six scoring depth. 

As well, considering his injury-riddled season with Montreal, he has the potential to be a cost-effective buy-low, high-reward option on the market who owns one of the most deceptive release points in the NHL. 

When he has been allotted consistent ice time, he has averaged around 0.8 points per game when he's been healthy. He also scored 52 points across 55 games in the 2022-2023 season. 

For landing spots, he has been linked to the Minnesota Wild, Rangers and Sabres, and a new environment could provide him with comeback success. A change of scenery could be what he needs to re-establish his value. 

Vanessa Serrao
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Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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