The NHL free agent market is experiencing a scarcity of viable options as teams scramble to fill their rosters. Among the notable names still available is Jack Roslovic, a versatile forward who had a decent scoring rate with Carolina last season, but faced inconsistencies that led to him being scratched at times. Meanwhile, Victor Olofsson, recently released by Vegas as a salary cap casualty, is a power-play specialist capable of netting over 20 goals if given the right opportunity. Similarly, defenseman Matt Grzelcyk is yet to find a deal as his height remains a perceived drawback.

The goalie market is equally thin, with Ilya Samsonov still in search of a team. Max Pacioretty's potential retirement adds to the uncertainty, while players like Luke Kunin and Joel Kiviranta represent buy-low opportunities for teams needing depth. Meanwhile, Alexandar Georgiev and Kevin Labanc are also floating in the free agent pool, with options dwindling as the season approaches.

The Vancouver Canucks have made a notable addition to their roster by signing former Michigan State winger Mackenzie MacEachern to a two-year, $1.55 million deal. This two-way contract allows MacEachern to be shuffled between the NHL and the AHL, providing the Canucks with depth and flexibility. After spending six seasons in the NHL, primarily with the St. Louis Blues, he brings experience and a moderate scoring touch, with 11 goals and 9 assists over 123 games. MacEachern's signed deal reflects the Canucks' strategy to bolster their forward line while potentially giving young talent opportunities in the AHL.

The NHL free agency frenzy is underway as teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Among the notable moves, former Michigan State Spartans Jeff Petry and Mackenzie MacEachern have secured contracts with the Florida Panthers and Vancouver Canucks, respectively. Meanwhile, Mason Appleton remains a valuable player in search of a new home, with potential interest from the Detroit Red Wings.

Appleton, primarily known as a bottom-six forward and a solid penalty killer, has spent most of his career with the Winnipeg Jets and briefly with the Seattle Kraken. Analysts suggest that the Red Wings are in dire need of a penalty-killing forward for their fourth line, making Appleton an appealing target. His experience and skill set could fill a crucial role for Detroit as they look to enhance their team dynamics.

The Florida Panthers have made a strategic move to reinforce their defense by signing veteran Jeff Petry to a one-year contract worth $775,000, which includes performance bonuses. With 981 career games under his belt, Petry brings a wealth of experience to the Panthers, having previously played for the Oilers, Canadiens, and Penguins. Despite a relatively quiet season last year with the Red Wings, where he recorded just one goal and seven assists, the Panthers are optimistic that Petry can fill the gap left by Nate Schmidt, contributing to their pursuit of a consecutive Stanley Cup.

Petry joins the Panthers in search of his first Stanley Cup, looking to replicate the success of other veterans like Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who benefited from similar opportunities last season. His role on the third pairing alongside Dmitry Kulikov is expected to enhance both defensive stability and leadership on the blue line. With the Panthers aiming for a strong start to the season, Petry's adaptability and experience will be crucial as they seek to defend their title.