The 2025 NHL free agency was disappointing, with key players like Sam Bennett and John Tavares re-signing with their respective teams, while the much-anticipated Mitch Marner was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. With only Nikolaj Ehlers remaining as a notable free agent, fans are left longing for a more dynamic future.

Looking ahead to the 2026 free agency, excitement builds as superstars such as Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, and Kirill Kaprizov are set to hit the market. The potential for blockbuster signings could reshape the league, with teams like the Minnesota Wild needing to prove their commitment to building championship-caliber rosters. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky and veteran Alex Ovechkin could also create significant buzz depending on their teams' fortunes.