July 1st in the National Hockey League is typically a day filled with frenzied activity, teams splashing cash, and players finding new homes. Yet, as we`ve learned, particularly after what might be described as a rather subdued 2025 free agency period, predicting who will actually hit the open market is less of a science and more akin to reading tea leaves.
A tremendous amount can, and usually does, transpire in the year leading up to that pivotal date. Players re-sign with their current clubs, sometimes right down to the wire on June 30th. Others might be involved in sign-and-trade scenarios, circumventing the open market entirely. And, of course, many potential free agents simply extend with their teams within the 12-month window before their contracts expire, rendering the speculation moot.
So, when we gaze into the crystal ball for the 2026 free agency class, it`s crucial to proceed with a healthy dose of skepticism and a trunk full of caveats. The biggest fish often never leave the pond. Superstars like Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, Artemi Panarin, Kirill Kaprizov, or Kyle Connor are the types of generational talents teams lock up long-term. While Panarin famously changed addresses in 2019 via free agency, such instances are rare seismic events, usually preceded by clear signs.
Then there are the veterans approaching the twilight of their careers. Players like Alex Ovechkin, turning 40 soon, or Evgeni Malkin, nearing 39, if they continue playing, are overwhelmingly likely to do so only with the franchises where they cemented their legendary status (Washington and Pittsburgh, respectively). Sergei Bobrovsky, a few years younger but still a seasoned pro, seems destined to finish his playing days chasing more championships in Florida, likely on a more cap-friendly deal than his current one.
Similarly, established captains and long-time one-team players such as Anze Kopitar, John Carlson, Adam Lowry, and Boone Jenner are simply difficult to envision wearing different sweaters. Even highly capable veterans like Mattias Ekholm (Edmonton) and Jacob Markstrom (New Jersey), while having played for multiple teams, appear quite settled in their current situations, chasing the ultimate prize.
The smart money, as always, is on most prominent names staying put. But where does the *less* sensible, more exciting money potentially flow come July 1, 2026? That`s where the intriguing possibilities lie.
The following players represent a group whose situations, for varying reasons, make them *more likely* than the typical star or veteran to at least flirt with the open market next summer. Again, circumstances can pivot instantly, but let`s examine some names that would undoubtedly generate significant interest should they become available.
Rasmus Andersson, Defenseman, Calgary Flames
Perhaps the least certain name to *reach* UFA status on this list, precisely because he is a prime candidate to be moved well before then. The Calgary Flames rearguard is a constant presence in trade discussions. If he`s dealt soon, an extension might be part of the package. However, if he remains in Calgary closer to the 2026 trade deadline and isn`t extended, he could easily become a highly coveted rental player before hitting the market as a sought-after right-shot defenseman who can move the puck effectively. Teams covet players like Andersson, and if he`s available, the queue will be long.
Martin Necas, Right Wing, Colorado Avalanche
Could Colorado genuinely see a top-line winger potentially reach free agency in back-to-back seasons? The trade involving Mikko Rantanen in the final year of his deal before ultimately landing elsewhere served as a stark reminder that unexpected moves happen. Necas arrived via that transaction and signed a two-year Restricted Free Agent deal seemingly positioning himself for a shot at unrestricted free agency in 2026. If the Avalanche can`t work out a long-term plan, Necas, a large, skilled winger who will still be relatively young (27 by then), would be an enormous prize on the open market. He appears keen on testing his value.
Alex Tuch, Right Wing, Buffalo Sabres
The recent NHL playoff landscape highlighted the value of big, talented, hard-to-play-against forwards with scoring punch. Alex Tuch fits this mold perfectly with his six-foot-four frame and offensive capabilities. For any team looking for that elusive “missing piece” built for playoff success, Tuch screams potential fit. His situation in Buffalo, a team navigating its path forward, makes his future intriguing. He`d be a significant power forward presence for any suitor.
Brady Tkachuk, Left Wing, Ottawa Senators
This is where things get particularly fascinating. The captain of the Ottawa Senators, Tkachuk embodies everything a franchise wants – leadership, grit, and scoring. He`ll turn 26 just before the 2026 off-season, entering his prime. He will also command a significant, long-term contract reflecting his status and production. If the Senators` fortunes don`t improve dramatically, or if contract negotiations prove thorny, the thought of Tkachuk even *potentially* hitting the market is franchise-altering. It`s hard to imagine, but stranger things have happened if a cornerstone player becomes disillusioned or simply seeks a new challenge.
Owen Tippett, Right Wing, Philadelphia Flyers
A dynamic, young scoring winger who, at the time of the source article`s premise, was thought to be positioning himself for a big payday after a bridge deal. The Flyers are in a state of transition, and while extensions can happen, a player like Tippett who continues to develop into a consistent scoring threat could become a highly attractive commodity if he were to reach UFA status. His age and offensive upside make him precisely the type of player teams building or contending would target.
Jake DeBrusk, Left Wing/Right Wing, Boston Bruins
DeBrusk has been a consistent goal-scoring forward for the Boston Bruins, often playing a power forward style. Boston`s salary cap situation has frequently been complex, requiring tough roster decisions. DeBrusk has also navigated contract negotiations in the past that have led to shorter-term deals, suggesting a willingness from his camp to potentially explore options. If he maintains his scoring pace, he could command a healthy salary on the open market, perhaps more than Boston is willing or able to commit given other priorities.
Anthony Stolarz, Goaltender, Toronto Maple Leafs
The goaltending market in free agency is notoriously volatile. However, Anthony Stolarz has demonstrated his capability as a reliable starter or a high-end tandem option. If he continues to perform well, he could become a desirable netminder for teams needing stability between the pipes. Goalies hitting the market can be unpredictable commodities, sometimes receiving surprisingly lucrative deals. Stolarz could be a beneficiary if he performs strongly in the lead-up to 2026.
Filip Gustavsson, Goaltender, Minnesota Wild
Another intriguing goaltending prospect. Gustavsson is a young goalie who has shown significant flashes of brilliance. The Minnesota Wild, however, are facing significant long-term salary cap constraints due to previous buyouts. This financial pressure could make it difficult for them to afford Gustavsson long-term, especially if his performance warrants a substantial raise. A young, promising goalie like Gustavsson could be a potential cornerstone for another franchise if he becomes available.
Predicting free agency a year out is, by definition, speculative. Re-signings are the most common outcome for desirable players. However, contract timing, team trajectories, salary cap realities, and player ambitions all play a role. The names above represent a blend of potential trade candidates, players whose previous contract strategy seemed aimed at UFA status, and valuable assets on teams facing financial or structural questions. July 1, 2026, could be a quiet affair, or one of these situations could indeed deliver the market-shaking news that makes Free Agent Frenzy live up to its name.
Ellis Thorne 
Percy Harlow