NHL Free Agency 2025: Grades and Fits for Key Signings

Mikael Granlund, F – Anaheim Ducks

Terms: Three years, $7 million AAV

Grade: C+

Where does he fit?

Granlund is a seasoned forward known for his offensive contributions throughout his career, with a notable exception during his time in Pittsburgh. He enjoyed a strong contract year last season between San Jose and Dallas, scoring 22 goals and adding 44 assists in 83 games, including production on the power play.

He can play any forward position. Given the Ducks have Cutter Gauthier and Chris Kreider on the left wing, he might slot into the top six on the right side. If used at center, it would likely be on the third line behind Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish, although a $7 million cap hit suggests a more prominent role. His immediate offensive punch could benefit any line, and he is considered one of the top playmakers available this offseason.

Does it make sense?

Granlund reportedly had lucrative reasons to leave his previous situation, but it`s somewhat surprising a veteran scorer would depart from a contender like Dallas (or the opportunity to play with Mikko Rantanen and Roope Hintz) for a Ducks team still likely a year away from serious contention. Acquired by the Stars last season, he produced well in the regular season and playoffs. Dallas wanted to keep him, but Granlund entered a relatively thin free-agent market for forwards and landed in Anaheim.

While the $7 million cap hit seems high, the Ducks possess significant cap flexibility both next season and for the second year of the deal, allowing them to overpay for offense. The debatable aspect is choosing Granlund. For a team aiming to improve defensively, Granlund is not known as a strong two-way player. Statistically, he was negative relative to his teammates defensively in Dallas. His offensive upside can sometimes offset defensive weaknesses, but it`s uncertain if that holds true here, especially for a Ducks team that struggled analytically at 5-on-5 defense last season. He might not have been the most necessary free agent addition for Anaheim`s needs.

Corey Perry, RW – Los Angeles Kings

Terms: 1 year, $2.5 million AAV

Grade: B+

Where does he fit?

Nearing two decades into his career, the 40-year-old Perry still brings value. He is expected to provide depth scoring on the wing for the Kings, serving as a net-front presence and persistent agitator. Last season in Edmonton, he scored 19 goals and 30 points in 81 games, mainly in a fourth-line role, demonstrating continued effectiveness. His playoff performance was particularly strong, with 10 goals in 22 games, including a stint on Connor McDavid`s wing, where he kept pace effectively. The Kings` coach, Jim Hiller, will likely utilize Perry in the bottom six to add energy and offensive potential.

Does it make sense?

The idea of Perry, a long-time rival who frequently agitated the Kings as a Duck, joining Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty would have been unbelievable a decade ago. However, circumstances change. At this point in his career, Perry seems like an ideal fit for Los Angeles. There`s minimal pressure, but he remains capable. He makes the Kings a tougher team to play against, especially in the postseason, which is L.A.`s focus. Perry has a remarkable tendency to join teams that make deep playoff runs, even if they ultimately fall short of the Stanley Cup. While he won`t single-handedly transform the Kings into a powerhouse, he contributes valuable scoring depth, leadership, and playoff experience – qualities essential for extended playoff success.

The contract is favorable for the Kings, costing at most $3.5 million if all bonuses are met. If he proves to be a difference-maker, it`s a significant bonus. Past rivalries are irrelevant; this partnership appears mutually beneficial at this stage.

Nate Schmidt, D – Utah Mammoth

Terms: 3 years, $3.5 million AAV

Grade: B+

Where does he fit?

Schmidt`s recent time in Florida seemed to revitalize his game. He had a strong regular season and excelled during the Panthers` Stanley Cup run, contributing three goals and 12 points in 23 games. He earned his spot on the third pairing, demonstrating excellent rush defense, smart puck decisions, and impressive playmaking. Essentially, Schmidt is a versatile defenseman when placed correctly, and he earned the raise Utah offered.

The Mammoth are getting Schmidt at a high point in his performance. He can anchor their third pairing, handle a decent workload, and contribute at 5-on-5 and on special teams. He also brings a valuable veteran presence to a young team still developing its identity. While not the fastest skater, Schmidt is intelligent, confident, and experienced – a solid combination for their blue line.

Does it make sense?

Absolutely. Utah was a middle-of-the-road defensive team last season, allowing over three goals per game and lacking offensive punch from the defense beyond Mikhail Sergachev. Schmidt has the potential to elevate the entire defensive unit. He represents an upgrade over previous options and offers higher offensive potential. This is a positive move for the Mammoth.

If Utah can deploy Schmidt in a suitable role, he should bring Cup-winning experience and consistent performance that strengthens their defense.

Ryan Lindgren, D – Seattle Kraken

Terms: 4 years, $4.5 million AAV

Grade: B

Where does he fit?

Lindgren`s signing appears to be part of Seattle`s broader strategy to address defensive inconsistencies that plagued the team throughout the 2024-25 season. Analytics show they were in the bottom ten for scoring chances, shots, and high-danger chances allowed per 60 minutes. Their penalty kill also struggled, ranking 21st.

Last season, split between the New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche, he scored four goals and a career-high 22 points in 72 games. While he offers some offense, his primary value to Seattle (and potential suitors) lies in his defensive capabilities. He adds to the Kraken`s top-six defense corps, joining players like Vince Dunn, Ryker Evans, Adam Larsson, Brandon Montour, and Jamie Oleksiak, with Josh Mahura potentially as the seventh defenseman.

Lindgren`s addition provides flexibility; he can play as a top-four or fifth defenseman. He is also likely to play a significant role on the penalty kill, having consistently logged over 127 short-handed minutes per season throughout his six full NHL campaigns.

Does it make sense?

Lindgren brings a dimension the Kraken lacked and, along with the signing of center Frederick Gaudreau, signals new GM Jason Botterill`s focus on building more defensive consistency. While he fits into the team, his exact placement in the defensive lineup is a point of discussion. Dunn and Larsson have typically formed the top pairing, offering a balance of puck-moving and stay-at-home styles. If that pairing remains, the second pairing is the next option. Montour is a right-handed puck-mover on the second pairing, creating an opening for a left-handed, stay-at-home defenseman.

However, is that role filled by Lindgren or Oleksiak? And is it prudent to pay a fifth defenseman $4.5 million or more annually, especially when other financial considerations exist? The Kraken need to sign pending RFA Ryker Evans and anticipate future contracts for RFAs like Kaapo Kakko and Tye Kartye. PuckPedia projects Seattle with over $13 million in cap space before these RFA signings, suggesting they may need to use that space or make trades to create more flexibility.

Vladislav Gavrikov, D – New York Rangers

Terms: 7 years, $7 million AAV

Grade: B+

Where does he fit?

This signing is a significant boost for Adam Fox, the Rangers` top defenseman. Fox saw a dip in production last season (61 points in 74 games), partly due to injuries and the team`s overall performance, but also struggling to find a consistent partner on the top pairing. His long-time partner Ryan Lindgren was traded, and while his pairing with K`Andre Miller was more successful, Miller, a restricted free agent, was also traded. Vladislav Gavrikov arrives as a genuine top-pairing shutdown defenseman, providing Fox with a lefty-righty partner. This pairing allows Fox the freedom to take more offensive risks, similar to his dynamic with Lindgren.

Gavrikov was very effective for the Los Angeles Kings last season, playing a career-high average of 23:05 minutes against tough competition nightly. His pairing with Mikey Anderson was defensively sound, allowing just 1.61 goals per 60 minutes at 5-on-5. While not overly physical, he is an underrated skater and plays intelligently in his own end. Despite his defensive focus, he also contributed 30 points last season.

Does it make sense?

He addresses a critical need for the Rangers, both by complementing Fox and adding veteran defensive depth to a developing blue line. At 29, Gavrikov is in his prime and coming off a strong season. He has played with Artemi Panarin (Columbus) and Igor Shesterkin (KHL) previously. The contract`s $7 million AAV is notably less than Ivan Provorov`s recent extension ($8.5 million AAV), despite their comparable impact. It is front-loaded with bonus money but appears to be a solid addition that fills a vital role.

Brock Boeser, RW – Vancouver Canucks

Terms: 7 years, $7.25 million AAV

Grade: B

Where does he fit?

Last season, the Canucks faced various challenges, including offensive struggles, finishing 21st in goals per game. Boeser is a consistent scorer, netting 40 goals in 2023-24 and 25 in 75 games last season. While not exceptionally fast or flashy, he excels at converting chances and generating offense, particularly from high-danger areas. He played throughout the lineup last season, including alongside center Elias Pettersson. If Pettersson is to regain his form, he needs linemates like Boeser. Similarly, if Filip Chytil is to be an offensive force for Vancouver, Boeser can help.

Given his offensive value, it`s somewhat puzzling that the Canucks seemed hesitant about Boeser before ultimately signing him.

Does it make sense?

The situation between Boeser and the Canucks was peculiar. Contract negotiations had a significant gap, leading the team to attempt trading him at the deadline. GM Patrick Allvin stated they didn`t receive offers close to their valuation. As the season concluded, Boeser believed he was playing his final games for Vancouver. However, despite speculation about him signing elsewhere, he made an unexpected return on a seven-year deal with a $7.25 million AAV. His agent`s remark, “Really, did you expect him to sign anywhere else?”, adds to the strangeness of the process. Why wasn`t an eight-year extension, which could have lowered the cap hit, completed before free agency opened?

Ultimately, the fit makes sense for the Canucks. Boeser has overcome injury concerns and provides reliable scoring for a team needing offense. While Vancouver`s off-ice culture issues have been documented, Boeser is considered a positive presence. Despite the unusual path to the signing, keeping a consistent scorer is a logical move for the team.

Jake Allen, G – New Jersey Devils

Terms: 5 years, $1.8 million AAV

Grade: B+

Where does he fit?

Right back in a tandem with Jacob Markstrom. The Devils dramatically addressed their goaltending issues in 2024 by acquiring Allen from Montreal and then trading for Markstrom. This strategy paid off, improving their team save percentage significantly. However, their offense unexpectedly faltered last season, combining with injuries to derail their year. Surprisingly, Allen had better regular-season numbers than Markstrom, ranking ninth in the NHL for goals saved above expected. Markstrom proved his value in the playoffs, but Allen was crucial in getting them there.

New Jersey brings back this veteran duo next season, giving their backup a lengthy contract with a very low cap hit.

Does it make sense?

For the short term, it makes sense for the Devils to secure a consistent tandem goalie for less than $2 million against the cap. It also provides continuity in goal beyond Markstrom`s contract which expires next season. A five-year term for a goalie turning 35 might seem long, even with goalies playing effectively into their late 30s, but the low financial commitment minimizes risk if his play declines. The most notable aspect is Allen`s decision to stay. He was clearly the best option in a weak free-agent goaltending class, and several teams could have used him. His decision, perhaps influenced by the opportunity for consistent play and security, mirrors other veterans taking slightly longer terms for similar overall value, rather than seeking the highest annual salary elsewhere.

Patrick Kane, F – Detroit Red Wings

Terms: One year, $3 million AAV

Grade: B

Where does he fit?

Any team serious about playoff contention recognizes the need for proven top-six scorers, and Kane fits that description perfectly. At this stage of his career, he`s not expected to drive play as he did in his prime but has transitioned into a valuable second-line winger who enhances a team`s strength. Last season, he was fourth on the Red Wings with 21 goals and tied for second with 29 power-play points. His average ice time among forwards further highlighted his importance, explaining why Detroit sought a new deal. Had they not re-signed him, other teams likely would have quickly pursued him, given the demand for players with his scoring ability.

Bringing him back was also essential because the Red Wings occasionally struggled offensively last season, ranking 21st in goals per game and near the bottom in scoring chances and shots per 60 minutes.

Does it make sense?

Retaining one of their most consistent forwards at 36 was critical for the reasons mentioned. However, the greater value of re-signing Kane might be the strategic flexibility it provides. Trading Vladimir Tarasenko earlier indicated the Red Wings` confidence in re-signing Kane. Now, there appears to be an opening potentially next to J.T. Compher and Jonatan Berggren on the third line. Shedding Tarasenko`s $4.75 million contract and signing Kane for $1 million less than his previous salary gives GM Steve Yzerman significant cap space entering free agency. This opens several avenues:

Detroit has cap space to pursue forwards like Brock Boeser or Nikolaj Ehlers, or potentially find better fits for their top nine among players like Evgenii Dadonov, Jonathan Drouin, or Jack Roslovic. They could also target top-four defensemen available on the market. Finally, the trade route is an option, and Kane`s lower cap hit provides Yzerman additional flexibility if adding salary via trade is desired.

Brad Marchand, F – Florida Panthers

Terms: Six years, $5.25 million AAV

Grade: B+

Where does he fit?

Marchand`s self-proclaimed “rat” persona fits perfectly with the Panthers` identity. Beyond that, Florida highly values his contributions, both on and off the ice, to their Stanley Cup championship last season. Acquired at the trade deadline, Marchand had four points in 10 regular-season games while adjusting to a new team. However, he was outstanding in the playoffs, scoring 10 goals and adding 10 assists in 20 games, finishing second in Conn Smythe voting. He was particularly impactful in the Stanley Cup Final, scoring six goals, including two game-winners. Having a player of Marchand`s caliber (arguably the second-best left wing of his era) on the third line provided unmatched depth. His line was frequently the team`s best during their Cup run.

He also seamlessly integrated into Florida`s culture. The Panthers are known for their aggressive, win-at-all-costs attitude, and Marchand embodied this with his tenacity and ability to agitate opponents. Off-ice, he kept the mood light during tense moments and was a focal point for media, relieving pressure on quieter stars like captain Aleksander Barkov. The Panthers were determined to keep Marchand, partly to prevent him from joining a division rival like the Toronto Maple Leafs, a team seen as finally improving its playoff performance and potentially needing a player like Marchand to overcome Florida.

Does it make sense?

It`s an impressive move by GM Bill Zito to retain key players like Bennett, Ekblad, and Marchand, positioning the Panthers for a potential fourth consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance. While Florida`s state tax advantage is often cited, their success, team culture, and ownership investment are also significant factors. Giving a 37-year-old a six-year extension is undeniably long-term, perhaps even defying traditional aging curves. One model reportedly struggled to predict a 43-year-old Marchand`s performance. However, this is the price for retaining a player who would have commanded a very lucrative free-agent market. Some speculated he could earn up to $10 million AAV from teams like Utah or Toronto.

Marchand ultimately offered a “hometown discount” on the AAV to stay, and Zito extended the term beyond the four years many anticipated. The Panthers will remain a formidable and often challenging opponent, driven by one of the league`s most competitive players. His decision seems influenced by the positive environment and the recent championship success. The long term for an aging player is the primary risk, preventing an A+ grade. However, given his recent performance and the overall value relative to his market price, it`s a calculated risk. His name is already on the Stanley Cup twice, highlighting the potential reward.

Evan Bouchard, D – Edmonton Oilers

Terms: Four years, $10.5 million AAV

Grade: A

Where does he fit?

Bouchard is unequivocally one of the NHL`s top offensive defensemen. Over the past four seasons, he ranks eighth among blueliners in goals and assists. He is tied for fourth in power-play points, quarterbacking the unit with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He excels at moving the puck, driving play against tough opponents, and possesses an elite shot for a defenseman. While some attribute his success to playing with elite forwards, his own offensive talent is undeniable. His defensive game has been criticized, particularly after high-profile mistakes, but his even-strength defense is arguably just below average, not a significant liability. His offensive prowess significantly outweighs defensive concerns.

He primarily played with Mattias Ekholm or Jake Walman last season, partners who helped mitigate defensive weaknesses. However, when paired with Darnell Nurse, as seen in the playoffs, the pairing became offensively dynamic but defensively chaotic.

Does it make sense?

The four-year term is interesting and benefits the Oilers in two ways. First, it keeps his cap hit manageable without committing to a full eight years, crucial with a potential McDavid extension on the horizon. Second, it allows the Oilers to move on if the risk associated with his game outweighs the reward later in the contract. The $10.5 million AAV is $1 million more than Noah Dobson`s recent eight-year deal, but given Bouchard`s demonstrably better offensive production, this is considered good business for GM Stan Bowman, aligning closely with analyst projections.

Signing him to an extension last summer would have been even better business, but the Oilers had other priorities, and Bouchard likely bet on increasing his value (though his point totals decreased slightly year-over-year). The main downside is the financial commitment to the defense group overall. Bouchard and Nurse combine for nearly $20 million against the cap for the next four seasons, a substantial sum for two defensemen, one of whom is currently perceived as overpaid.

Ivan Provorov, D – Columbus Blue Jackets

Terms: Seven years, $8.5 million AAV

Grade: C+

Where does he fit?

The Blue Jackets have utilized Provorov in a top-four role, and given the investment, he will need to continue playing that part moving forward. His greatest asset to Columbus is his ability to handle a heavy workload, averaging over 23 minutes per game last season (second on the team). He played a role on both the power play and penalty kill and is known for his durability, having appeared in all 82 games for the past three seasons. Last year was his most productive offensively in five years, with seven goals and 33 points. If he can maintain this level of multi-faceted contribution and soak up significant minutes, he will better justify his contract.

Does it make sense?

It`s a complex situation. Provorov likely benefited from a thin market for available defensemen, especially after other prominent players re-signed. Columbus needed to retain a defenseman and faced limited options on the open market. Consequently, they paid a significant premium to secure Provorov`s services for an extended period. Paying $2.4 million more annually than Aaron Ekblad`s new contract seems disproportionate. However, the Blue Jackets have ample cap space, the salary cap is rising, and as mentioned, finding a preferred defenseman option would have been challenging if Provorov departed. Losing him would have left their left-side depth relying heavily on younger, less experienced players, which would hinder a team aiming for the playoffs next season.

The positive is that Columbus still has considerable cap space remaining (around $20 million), providing flexibility to make further improvements to the roster.

Aaron Ekblad, D – Florida Panthers

Terms: Eight years, $6.1 million AAV

Grade: A-

Where does he fit?

He fits exactly where he has since being drafted first overall in 2014. The 29-year-old defenseman wanted to remain with the only franchise he`s known, especially after winning two consecutive Stanley Cups. GM Bill Zito was determined to keep him, even with the addition of Seth Jones. Ekblad is crucial to the team, forming a strong top pairing with Gustav Forsling during both championship runs. He is a skilled puck-moving defenseman who fits their system well. Last season, despite a suspension, he had 33 points in 56 games with significant average ice time. He is an important part of the team`s culture, contributing to camaraderie and the team`s confident playing style. The main question was whether Zito could accommodate the contract terms Ekblad sought within the team`s financial structure, which was answered affirmatively just before he would have become a free agent.

Does it make sense?

In almost every way, yes. From a roster perspective, it keeps the defensive corps intact as envisioned by Zito. Ekblad and Forsling are a reliable duo, effective at 5-on-5, allowing Jones to settle into a strong second pairing with Niko Mikkola. Competitively, Ekblad elevates his game significantly in the playoffs, similar to Sam Bennett. He and Forsling`s offensive production increased substantially in the postseason while remaining defensively sound against top competition like Connor McDavid. Ekblad wins puck battles, plays physically, and contributes offensively. Financially, it`s a remarkable deal for the Panthers. Against a free-agent market where defensemen like Jakob Chychrun signed for significantly more, Ekblad was the top-tier option with Cup experience. He is a valuable puck-moving right-shot defenseman. Analyst projections had him potentially earning $7.7 million AAV on a shorter term. Securing him for $6.1 million annually is a substantial discount, understandable given his comfort, defensive partner, and annual chance at a championship. As the saying goes, his stuff is there. The only minor concern (preventing an A+ grade) is durability; Ekblad has dealt with injuries previously. It`s an eight-year deal for a player turning 30, which carries some risk, but the overall value of the contract mitigates this. His name on the Stanley Cup twice underscores the significant reward.