The upcoming 2025 NHL unrestricted free agent class is headlined by elite names, notably Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who is projected to command a hefty contract surpassing $13 million per season. His teammate, John Tavares, also emerges as a significant player in free agency but may need to settle for a reduced salary to remain with the team. The forward market includes other notable names like Matt Duchene and Patrick Kane, although this year's class lacks the depth seen in previous years.

Additionally, the defense market features Aaron Ekblad leading as a top pairing blueliner, alongside Vladislav Gavrikov and Ivan Provorov. However, the absence of franchise-altering defensemen is evident, with most players being solid middle-pairing options. Goaltending, meanwhile, appears to be the most limited position, with Jake Allen being the standout choice. The rising salary cap, now at $95.5 million, offers teams the flexibility to pursue roster upgrades despite the talent drop-off beyond the top 15-20 names in free agency.