NHL Free Agency: Seven UFA Players in the Western Conference Awaiting Big Contracts
As the NHL free agency approaches, several UFA (Unrestricted Free Agents) players in the Western Conference are poised to make significant moves. Stars like Mikko Rantanen and Brock Boeser are currently in limbo, with no immediate contract extensions in sight. The question remains: will they stay with their current teams?
Rising Salary Cap
The NHL salary cap is projected to rise to approximately $92.5 million for the 2025-26 season, driven by record-breaking revenues. Naturally, as the salary cap increases, so too do player salaries. The NHL operates under a hard cap system, meaning every dollar counts. However, the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming cap increase and the expiration of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement after the 2025-26 season means all parties must tread carefully.
Here’s the latest on some of the biggest UFA names in the Western Conference as we head into the summer of 2025.
Mikko Rantanen, RW, Colorado Avalanche
Current Cap Hit: $9.25 million
The longer the Avalanche take to re-sign Rantanen, the more concerning the situation becomes. Rantanen has been pivotal to the Avalanche’s success in recent seasons. According to Pierre LeBrun of TSN, Rantanen is seeking a contract worth around $14 million per season, which would place him among the highest-paid players in the league, comparable to Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers.
If Rantanen secures his desired salary, it would represent 15.14% of the projected salary cap. The Avalanche have invested heavily in their top six forwards and top four defensemen, all earning no less than $4 million. While they can offer more total dollars due to an extra year, allocating such a significant portion of the cap to a small group of players raises philosophical questions reminiscent of the Toronto Maple Leafs and their “core four.”
Currently, there are no updates on contract negotiations between Rantanen and the Avalanche. If he were to switch teams, it would create a seismic shift in the league landscape. For now, the Avalanche’s focus remains on making a deep playoff run.
Brock Boeser, RW, Vancouver Canucks
Current Cap Hit: $6.65 million
Brock Boeser is a proven goal-scorer, having netted 40 goals in a season, a feat achieved by only 35 players over the past five years. While Boeser has expressed a desire to stay with the Canucks, management appears less enthusiastic, at least publicly.
Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet speculates that Boeser is aiming for a maximum-term contract worth $8 million per season, similar to the 8-year, $70 million deal signed by Travis Konecny last summer. However, there are debates about whether Boeser is a consistent 40-goal scorer or merely a player who occasionally reaches that mark.
The Canucks are in a precarious position, having won several games but lacking depth in their top lineup. Losing a player of Boeser’s caliber could exacerbate their issues, especially as they aim for a playoff spot.
Mikael Granlund, C, San Jose Sharks
Current Cap Hit: $5 million
Mikael Granlund has aged like fine wine, becoming a reliable center for both the Minnesota Wild and Nashville Predators. At 32, he is on track for a career season. The Sharks face a dilemma: keep Granlund for his veteran presence or trade him as part of a rebuild.
There are no updates on a potential contract extension, and letting him walk in free agency would be a poor decision for the Sharks. Retaining Granlund could provide mentorship for young talents like Macklin Celebrini.
Other Notable UFAs
- Jamie Benn, Dallas Stars (Current Cap Hit: $9.5 million)
- Matt Duchene, Dallas Stars (Current Cap Hit: $3 million)
- Nikolaj Ehlers, Winnipeg Jets (Current Cap Hit: $6 million)
- Neal Pionk, Winnipeg Jets (Current Cap Hit: $5.875 million)
As the NHL landscape shifts, these players will be pivotal in shaping their teams’ futures. The decisions made in the coming months will not only impact their careers but also the competitive balance of the league. The clock is ticking, and the stakes are high.
