NEW YORK — The NHL's free-agent market has slowed two weeks after the opening of the signing period, but several established veterans remain available as teams continue evaluating roster needs ahead of training camps later this year.
Among the most prominent unrestricted free agents still without contracts are forwards Patrick Kane, Patrik Laine and Anthony Mantha, according to NHL.com, with clubs weighing experience, salary-cap flexibility and long-term roster planning before making additional moves. Other notable unsigned players include Michael Bunting, veteran winger David Perron, defenseman Jeff Petry and forward Reilly Smith.
NHL Network analysts said this week that the remaining market is likely to be shaped by teams seeking short-term scoring help or experienced depth rather than making blockbuster additions. Kane and Laine continue to headline the available talent because of their offensive resumes, while Mantha is viewed as another veteran capable of adding size and scoring if healthy.
League activity has continued beyond the opening wave of free agency, with clubs completing trades, arbitration agreements and contract extensions that have gradually reduced the pool of available players. NHL.com's free-agent tracker has documented signings across the league since July 1, including new contracts for several unrestricted and restricted free agents and arbitration-related developments involving others.
The rising salary cap for the 2026-27 season gave many teams additional financial flexibility entering free agency, contributing to a busy opening week in which hundreds of contracts were agreed before attention shifted to the remaining veterans on the market. Analysts have noted that clubs with available cap space may continue monitoring unsigned players through the summer as they assess injuries, prospect development and preseason needs.
Speculation has linked some remaining free agents with potential destinations, including reports connecting Laine with the Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Islanders, although no agreement has been announced and neither club has confirmed negotiations.
With more than two months remaining before most NHL training camps begin, front offices are expected to continue evaluating free-agent options while also pursuing trades and resolving outstanding contract matters. As of Wednesday, no official announcements had altered the status of the league's highest-profile remaining unrestricted free agents.
