Having just finished a season like no other, it should come as little surprise that the NHL offseason is going to be different, too.
NHL teams are going to be faced with a flat salary cap, which means no increase on the $81.5 million upper limit and, given the state of the world, who knows when that limit will increase?
There aren’t a lot of stars heading for the free agent market but there are a few and there are enough notables available that there will be opportunities for teams to make some significant changes.
Here are the Top 101 unrestricted free agents for 2020. This list has been updated after teams bought out contracts or did not qualify restricted free agents.
1. Alex Pietrangelo, RD, STL (16-36-52, 70 GP, 53.1 CF%, 52.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.5M
The premier free agent defenseman this year, Pietrangelo scored a career-high 16 goals and his 52 points was the fourth time in his career that he had surpassed 50 points in a season. Not only does Pietrangelo create offense at a high level but his defensive play has improved too. For much of his career, he was riding an elite reputation but didn’t have the possession numbers to back it up and he now controls a greater percentage of shots and expected goals.
The challenge for Pietrangelo is going to be finding a team that can pay him fair market price under these circumstances and what that term is going to looks like since Pietrangelo is already 30 years old.
2. Taylor Hall, LW, ARZ (16-36-52, 65 GP, 48.3 CF%, 50.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.0M
The 2017-2018 Hart Trophy winner has 89 points in 98 games since. Will be a fascinating case because, at age 29, he should still be a very productive winger, one capable of putting up big numbers alongside skilled linemates. The question will be for how long should a team sign him? Surely, Hall will want a seven-year deal and there seems to be a good chance that, given his trouble staying healthy recently, a commitment of that term is fraught with risk.
Hall is still a strong player who averaged more than 3.5 shots on goal per game, which is great, and 1.95 points/60 at 5-on-5, which is not. He can help any team for the next few seasons. The question will be what happens when he’s 33 and still has three years left on his deal? .If you’re a GM with an uncertain lifespan on your tenure, maybe it is easier to sign that long-term deal, knowing that if Hall doesn’t produce in the early years, you may not be around to see the end of that contract anyway.
3. Jacob Markstrom, G, VAN (43 GP, .918 SV%, .923 EVSV%, .836 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.667M
It took some time for the Canucks goaltender to emerge as a legit number one but he was one of the top goaltenders in the league in 2019-2020. With Robin Lehner re-signing in Vegas, Markstrom is the marquee attraction in what could be a busy free agent market for goaltenders.
4. Torey Krug, LD, BOS (9-40-49, 61 GP, 55.5 CF%, 52.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.25M
He’s not the biggest blueliner but Krug has proven his value as a premier puck mover playing more than 20 minutes per game in each of the past five seasons. In that time, Krug ranks 16th among defensemen with 1.01 points/60 and second with 126 power play points, one behind Brent Burns. He seems to be a player that could be a valuable addition to a good team that needs a power play quarterback but term and his future role will be important considerations.
5. Mike Hoffman, LW, FLA (29-30-59, 69 GP, 50.4 CF%, 46.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.0M
Since 2014-2015, Hoffman has scored 169 goals, ranking 17th in the league and his 59 power play goals in that time ranking 10th. He’s a strong skater and a terrific shooter so he should still be able to produce for the next few seasons, at least as a power play threat, but he’s not necessarily a play driver so that means he needs the right supporting cast, and a team that needs him to pull the trigger on the power play, to maintain his production.
6. Mikael Granlund, LW/RW, NSH (17-13-30, 63 GP, 52.1 CF%, 52.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.75M
In a bizarre twist, the skilled forward who has made much of his career as a playmaker, Granlund managed just four primary assists at 5-on-5 in 2019-2020. He also had the lowest on-ice shooting percentage among Nashville forwards, so it’s not unreasonable to expect some kind of rebound next season. In terms of free agency, Granlund’s down season means that he could be a relative bargain and, for the right price, he could still be a very productive scoring winger once out of Nashville.
7. Tyler Toffoli, RW, VAN (24-20-44, 68 GP, 52.9 CF%, 52.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.0M
A four-time 20-goal scorer, who is a strong secondary scoring threat, Toffoli routinely has great shot differentials when he is on the ice and, at his age, with a Cup-winning pedigree, should be an attractive commodity on the free agent market.
8. Evgenii Dadonov, RW, FLA (25-22-47, 69 GP, 51.5 CF%, 50.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.0M
A skilled winger who drives play and has scored at least 25 goals in each of the past three seasons, Dadonov is going to be one of the most appealing free agent forwards because he has proven to be a creative offensive threat. His age is the one area of some concern, especially when it comes to the term of his free agent deal but Dadonov should provide immediate help for any team.
9. Tyson Barrie, RD, TOR (5-34-39, 70 GP, 53.3 CF%, 50.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.5M
A premier puck mover on the back end, Barrie does tend to give back whatever gains might be found by his ability to transport the puck from one end of the ice to the other, at least at even strength. That can be frustrating for coaches but Barrie is a three-time 50-point scorer who can run a power play and thrive in a role alongside highly-skilled players. It will be interesting to see if a down season in 2019-2020 has a material effect on his free agent price.
10. Sami Vatanen, RD, CAR (5-18-23, 47 GP, 47.8 CF%, 47.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.875M
A steady top-four defenseman who has played more than 21 minutes per game for six straight seasons, Vatanen is a smart player and a good passer. There are a lot of teams that can find room for a right-handed defenseman who can move the puck and, if needed, quarterback a power play.
11. Henrik Lundqvist, G, NYR (30 GP, .905 SV%, .920 EVSV%, .850 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 38; 2019-2020 cap hit: $8.5M
Recently bought out by the Rangers, Lundqvist is still interested in playing and his performance indicates that he can still get the job done. Maybe he can’t handle the same workload, at age 38, but he will be an interesting short-term signing.
12. Braden Holtby, G, WSH (48 GP, .897 SV%, .906 EVSV%, .786 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.1M
He won a Stanley Cup and has excellent playoff numbers but Holtby also has a .906 save percentage over the past three seasons, after posting a .921 save percentage in the five seasons before that. A team looking for a new starter will give him a shot but a big investment would be risky.
13. Kevin Shattenkirk, RD, TB (8-26-34, 70 GP, 53.3 CF%, 55.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.75M
A premier puck-moving defender, Shattenkirk can be soft defensively but that still tends towards a net positive because he is so good at making a pass to exit the zone, as well as creating scoring chances in the offensive zone. Maybe paying him like a No. 1 defenseman, as the Rangers did a few years ago, isn’t wise but Shattenkirk can help teams that have a strong supporting cast.
14. T.J. Brodie, RD, CGY (4-15-19, 64 GP, 52.1 CF%, 52.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.65M
A left-shot defenseman who prefers the right side, Brodie is excellent at moving the puck out of the defensive zone and through neutral ice. He could stand to challenge more defensively at his own blueline but, overall, he is a solid and reliable option who has played more than 20 minutes per game for eight straight seasons.
15. Craig Smith, RW, NSH (18-13-31, 69 GP, 55.2 CF%, 56.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.25M
An elite shot generator in a middle-six role, Smith has had five 20-goal seasons and tallied 18 in 69 games in 2019-2020 while playing a career-low 13:25 per game. He should have some value on the free agent market, able to boost a team’s supporting cast, but there will be some risk if the term goes too long.
16. Anthony Duclair, LW, OTT (23-17-40, 66 GP, 47.5 CF%, 50.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.65M
Given an opportunity to play a prominent role for Ottawa, Duclair tallied a career-high 23 goals in 66 games though managed just two in his last 29 games. The Senators, a team lacking proven scoring options, still chose not to give Duclair a qualifying offer so now the 25-year-old is looking to join his sixth NHL team, where he could quite reasonably be expected to provide secondary scoring.
17. Chris Tanev, RD, VAN (2-18-20, 69 GP, 46.5 CF%, 48.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.45M
Although he tied a career-high with 20 points in 2019-2020, Tanev is known mostly for his work in the defensive zone, where he was more effective when he was younger. Tanev’s shot-blocking style may not lead to the smoothest aging curve, and he has never played more than 70 games in a season, so as much as teams will seek him to play a shutdown role, the term on Tanev’s deal should be a legitimate concern.
18. Corey Crawford, G, CHI (40 GP, .917 SV%, .926 EVSV%, .864 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 35; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.0M
Health has been an issue for Crawford in recent seasons but, as long as he is healthy, he remains a quality starting goaltender. At his age, he’s probably looking at a shorter term deal but will have some options if he isn’t going to return to Chicago.
19. Anton Khudobin, G, DAL (30 GP, .930 SV%, .945 EVSV%, .852 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 34; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.5M
He was tremendous during Dallas’ run to the Cup Final but Khudobin hasn’t played more than 41 games in an NHL season and it’s getting late in his career to suddenly take on a starter’s role.
20. Dominik Kahun, LW, BUF (12-19-31, 56 GP, 49.7 CF%, 49.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $925K
Somehow this useful middle-six winger is looking for his fourth NHL club after scoring 68 points in 138 games through his first two seasons. Kahun is a solid complementary winger who can score a bit and play responsibly without the puck.
21. Vladislav Namestnikov, LW, COL (17-14-31, 65 GP, 44.7 CF%, 46.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.0M
A versatile forward coming off a poor season, Namestnikov has produced back-to-back 31-point seasons after scoring a career-high 48 points in 2017-2018. Before the 2019-2020 season, the puck tended to move the right way with Namestnikov on the ice, so he is a viable middle-six forward, one who led the NHL with four shorthanded goals in 2019-2020. There should be a market for him but the cost should be reasonable, too.
22. Joe Thornton, C, SJ (7-24-31, 70 GP, 53.0 CF%, 50.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 41; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.0M
Jumbo has played in San Jose for 15 seasons, so it’s hard to fathom him moving somewhere else at Age 41, but if the Sharks are going to turn the page, there are surely teams that will be interested in Thornton as a third-line centre. Even though he’s not too fleet afoot at this stage of his career, his size allows him to protect the puck and his exceptional vision still helps him create scoring chances. That will play just about anywhere.
23. Mikko Koivu, C, MIN (4-17-21, 55 GP, 50.6 CF%, 54.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 37; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.5M
He no longer has a significant offensive impact but Koivu is still reliable defensively and while it’s understandable that the Wild want to get younger there could very well be a team that is intrigued by adding a responsible player who consistently moves the puck in the right direction, albeit less efficiently than he did when he was in his prime.
24. Cam Talbot, G, CGY (26 GP, .919 SV%, .923 EVSV%, .806 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 33; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.75M
After a couple of shaky seasons, Talbot signed on with the Flames and turned his career around, earning the starting job by season’s end. He may not be a full-time starter but could certainly handle his half of a time-share role.
25. Thomas Greiss, G, NYI (31 GP, .913 SV%, .920 EVSV%, .894 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 34; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.5M
Aside from a rough 2017-2018 season, Greiss has been an effective part of the goaltending tandem with the Islanders. Should be attractive to other teams that want more than just a standard backup and closer to a time-share in the crease.
26. Alexander Wennberg, C, CBJ (5-17-22, 57 GP, 50.1 CF%, 51.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.9M
A playmaking centre who looked like he was well on his way after scoring 59 points in 2016-2017 but has fallen flat since. He’s a reluctant shooter and that hurts his production but, overall, the puck moves the right way when he’s on the ice so, in a thin free agent centre class, he still ought to have some value for a team that is seeking a middle six pivot.
27. Erik Haula, LW/C, FLA (12-12-24, 48 GP, 49.8 CF%, 47.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.75M
“Famer” isn’t likely to match his 2017-2018 season, when he put up 29 goals and 55 points for Vegas, but he’s a versatile forward who can play some centre and contribute in a middle-six role. He’s not coming off a great season and has played a total of 63 games over the past two regular seasons but Haula may still be worth a look in a third line role.
28. Ilya Kovalchuk, LW, WSH (46-10-16-26, 52.8 CF%, 55.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 37; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
It looked like Kovalchuk’s return to the NHL was going down in proverbial flames before he got a chance in Montreal and he played well for the Habs. He was okay late in the season with the Capitals but managed just one point in eight playoff games. Will there be a team out there willing to give him another shot in a complementary scoring role?
29. Jesper Fast, RW, NYR (12-17-29, 69 GP, 55.2 CF%, 56.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.85M
A competent third-line winger who moved up the Rangers depth chart last season, Fast has never scored more than 13 goals in a season so there is a limit to his appeal but there’s nothing wrong with a steady checking winger who can kill penalties and chip in a little offensively.
30. Travis Hamonic, RD, CGY (3-9-12, 50 GP, 47.6 CF%, 46.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.857M
A stay-at-home defender who struggled in his own end in 2019-2020, Hamonic has played more than 20 minutes per game in each of his 10 NHL seasons. He doesn’t bang bodies as much as he used to and his style of play isn’t typically conducive to aging gracefully so while he may cash in once more in free agency, Hamonic comes with long-term risk.
31. Radko Gudas, RD, WSH (2-13-15, 63 GP, 51.4 CF%, 49.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.35M
A physical presence who is good for a few borderline hits per season, Gudas typically has favorable shot and goal differentials but is coming off a season in which he played a career-low 16:44 per game and doesn’t play a style that lends itself to aging well.
32. Andreas Athanasiou, LW, EDM (11-15-26, 55 GP, 45.0 CF%, 44.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.0M
A brilliant talent who is a tremendous skater with soft hands and a finisher’s touch, Athanasiou is also a defensive liability who rarely makes his linemates better. It seems like he can create so much on his own that he just doesn’t feel compelled to involve his teammates. Probably a fall-back option for a team that comes up empty in their first attempts to add offense via trades or free agency.
33. Alex Galchenyuk, LW/RW, MIN (8-16-24, 59 GP, 48.1 CF%, 49.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.9M
The third overall pick in the 2012 Draft has never been the same since suffering a knee injury in 2016-2017 and his defensive shortcomings have become even more pronounced. It was the kind of thing that might have been tolerated when he was a young kid burying 30 goals in 2015-2016 but now that his offense has dried up, Galchenyuk needs to hope that there will be a team willing to take a chance on him. Presumably, there will be a team interested enough to take him on a make-good deal.
34. Kyle Turris, C, NSH (9-22-31, 62 GP, 50.5 CF%, 47.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.0M
Turris’ play has fallen off rather dramatically in the past couple of seasons so it’s not a huge surprise that the Predators bought him out. He may be a potential value play for a team that can afford to put him into a depth role and cut him loose if he doesn’t bounce back.
35. Ben Hutton, LD, LA (4-12-16, 65 GP, 55.8 CF%, 54.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 34; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.5M
Smooth-skating defenseman turned in a solid season for the Kings and showed that he could be effective in the right situation. How much that will earn on the open market remains the question.
36. Erik Gustafsson, LD/RD, CGY (6-23-29, 66 GP, 48.8 CF%, 45.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.2M
A quality puck-moving defenseman who can quarterback a power play, Gustafsson needs to improve his play without the puck if he’s going to fill a top-four role.
37. Johan Larsson, C, BUF (6-12-18, 62 GP, 50.7 CF%, 51.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.55M
Unheralded, as are most forwards who produce little offensively, but Larsson is a terrific defensive forward and may be able to cash in during free agency. Buffalo appears committed to cutting costs and that could open the door for a team that sees the value in Larsson’s defensive play.
38. Cody Eakin, C, WPG (5-10-15, 49 GP, 50.0 CF%, 47.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.85M
A centre who has had four seasons with 35 or more points in his career, Eakin can fill a third-line role but he has had problems driving play and that mitigates his appeal. Like, there should be teams interested in him as a free agent, but at a significantly reduced price.
39. Troy Stecher, RD, VAN (5-12-17, 69 GP, 48.0 CF%, 46.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.325M
Stecher’s role was reduced in Vancouver last season, his fourth year in the NHL. He’s on the smaller side but is a steady enough puck mover who is a decent third-pair option.
40. Zdeno Chara, LD, BOS (5-9-14, 68 GP, 46.8 CF%, 48.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 43; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.0M
Big Z is obviously not what he once was because, well, he’s 43-years-old. Hard to imagine him in something other than a Bruins sweater but if he wants to play there ought to be a spot for him.
41. Cody Ceci, RD, OTT (1-7-8, 56 GP, 50.2 F%, 50.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.5M
While Ceci is a capable defender in his own end, he struggles to defend the blueline and makes questionable decisions with the puck.
42. Mark Pysyk, RD, FLA (9-9-18, 58 GP, 44.9 CF%, 45.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.733M
Fell out of favor in Florida and spent some time skating as a forward last season but Pysyk is likely still capable of handling a third-pair role. Presumably, he will get that chance again with a new team.
43. Trevor van Riemsdyk, RD, CAR (1-7-8, 49 GP, 53.2 CF%, 52.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.3M
Veteran defender who doesn’t contribute a whole lot offensively but is steady enough defensively for a regular role on the third pair.
44. Justin Schultz, RD, PIT (3-9-12, 46 GP, 49.8 CF%, 50.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.5M
An offensive defenseman who won a couple of Stanley Cups in Pittsburgh, Schultz has also had a lot of trouble staying healthy, playing a total of 138 games in the past three seasons.
45. Josh Leivo, RW, VAN (7-12-19, 36 GP, 52.5 CF%, 50.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.5M
A 27-year-old who has had to fight uphill in order to secure a regular spot in the lineup, Leivo has produced 37 points in 85 games for the Canucks and consistently drives play. A fractured kneecap ended Leivo’s season in December and that probably will limit the demand for his services but he will have a chance to provide some good value.
46. Conor Sheary, LW, PIT (10-13-23, 63 GP, 50.3 CF%, 49.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.0M
A smallish, skilled winger, Sheary fits reasonably in a middle-six role and can contribute secondary scoring. He hasn’t been able to live up to his 2016-2017 season when he put up 53 points (23 G, 30 A) in 61 games as a rookie but Sheary typically has slightly better than average shot differentials but also starts a disproportionate number of his shifts in the offensive zone. Given those factors, he can help but is probably not worth a major financial investment.
47. Tyler Ennis, LW, EDM (16-21-37, 70 GP, 49.3 CF%, 51.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $800K
The diminutive winger still has some offensive flair and he scored 16 goals and 37 points in 2019-2020, his highest totals since the 2014-2015 season. He has spent the past few seasons on bargain contracts working at the bottom of the depth chart, and exceeding expectations in that role. Will there be a team willing to commit more money and ice time to Ennis? Maybe on a short deal.
48. Mattias Janmark, LW, DAL (6-15-21, 62 GP, 51.2 CF%, 54.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.3M
With low shooting percentages the past couple of seasons, Janmark’s scoring production has fallen off, but he plays a sound two-way game. He’s a solid third liner who can kill penalties and might come at a little bit of a discount because he has managed just 12 goals in 143 games over the past two seasons.
49. Vinnie Hinostroza, RW, ARZ (5-17-22, 68 GP, 49.6 CF%, 49.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.5M
A speedy forward who doesn’t finish a lot but his skating ability allows him to create chances and consistently keeps the puck headed in the right direction.
50. Mark Jankowski, C, CGY (5-2-7, 56 GP, 48.8 CF%, 51.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.675M
The 2012 first-round pick was something of a late bloomer but was making real progress, scoring a total of 31 goals in the two seasons prior to 2019-2020 when he completely fell off the grid. A big center with some skill for the bottom half of the depth chart, Jankowski is worth a look as a reclamation project.
51. Lucas Wallmark, C, FLA (12-13-25, 67 GP, 51.0 CF%, 50.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $675K
Had been a competent fourth-line centre in Carolina before getting dealt to Florida at the deadline. For whatever flaws Wallmark has in his game, he was on a league-minimum deal and offers a little bit of skill for the bottom half of the depth chart.
52. Matt Benning, RD, EDM (1-7-8, 43 GP, 48.2 CF%, 49.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.9M
A third-pair defenseman who is a competent puck mover but also curtailed his offensive contributions in 2019-2020, Benning is a serviceable right-shot defenseman who could fit in with many teams.
53. Carl Soderberg, C, ARZ (17-18-35, 70 GP, 46.4 CF%, 47.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 35; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.75M
A soon-to-be 35-year-old coming off a 35-point season, the sixth time in seven NHL seasons that he hit that threshold, Soderberg is a capable middle six forward who can play wing as well. He has some defensive shortcomings and has two goals in 41 career playoff games, so manage expectations accordingly, but he could surely help some NHL teams next season.
54. Corey Perry, RW, DAL (5-16-21, 57 GP, 46.9 CF%, 53.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 35; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.5M
After a rough regular season, the veteran agitator was more effective in the playoffs, generating shots and wreaking havoc around the net. His postseason work probably helps him secure employment for next season.
55. Wayne Simmonds, RW, BUF (8-17-25, 68 GP, 46.7 CF%, 45.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.0M
Years of playing a physical game appear to have caught up with Simmonds, whose production has declined dramatically in the past couple of seasons. Nevertheless, there will surely be a team that has room for him lower on the depth chart but that will come with a more modest cost, too.
56. Derek Forbort, LD, CGY (0-1-1, 20 GP, 49.8 CF%, 51.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.525M
A big though not particularly nimble defender, Forbort has never scored more than two goals in a season and doesn’t generate much offensively but he’s a reasonably steady defender who can protect the defensive zone.
57. Bobby Ryan, RW, OTT (5-3-8, 24 GP, 53.3 CF%, 49.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 33; 2019-2020 cap hit: $7.25M
Veteran winger won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy after spending time in rehab for alcohol addiction. He was a premier goal-scorer during his peak years and while he’s no longer that player, it’s possible that Ryan could be a useful bargain pickup for a strong team that might be able to use him in a supporting role.
58. Ryan Miller, G, ANA (23 GP, .907 SV%, 922 EVSV%, .836 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 40; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.125M
A very good goaltender for a long time, Miller has been a quality backup in Anaheim for the past three seasons but he’s 40 and if he is particular about where he’s going to play then maybe it will be harder to find a fit for a backup netminder.
59. Matt Nieto, LW/RW, COL (8-13-21, 70 GP, 52.6 CF%, 50.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.975M
A speedy veteran forward who can play both wings, Nieto has ranged between 21 and 27 points in five of his seven seasons. He’s a solid pro who typically has trouble generating shots and goals individually, all except for 2017-2018 when he somehow scored on 17.9% of his shots to score a career-high 15 goals.
60. Evan Rodrigues, RW, TOR (6-4-10, 45 GP, 51.3 CF%, 48.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.0M
A good skater, Rodrigues moves the puck through neutral ice effectively and can create some offense The trouble is that he’s an abysmal finisher, scoring on 6.9% of his shots for his career. Fell out of favour in Buffalo in 2019-2020 but could be a nice depth option.
61. Colin Blackwell, RW, NSH (3-7-10, 27 GP, 51.7 CF%, 54.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $675K
A 27-year-old who has played 33 career NHL games, Blackwell added a little offense and helped the Predators control play while he was on the ice. He should be looking at a raise in free agency when a team decides that he’s worth a full-time spot in the league.
62. Michael Grabner, RW, ARZ (8-3-11, 46 GP, 43.1 CF%, 45.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 33; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.35M
A wonderful skater who creates an abundance of chances with his speed, Grabner is a four-time 20-goal scorer despite questionable finishing ability. He does have 17 goals in 87 games over the past two seasons so at the right price could offer some value.
63. Jimmy Vesey, LW/RW, BUF (9-11-20, 64 GP, 49.5 CF%, 48.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.275M
He won’t ever live up to the hype that surrounded him when he was a free agent coming out of Harvard but Vesey has been a serviceable middle-six winger. He only appeared in 64 games this season, which contributed to his finishing with a career-low 20 points but he has good size and enough talent to chip in offensively. Like several others above him, he’s a legit NHLer but, as a free agent, likely not worth investing in for more than a couple of years.
64. Zach Bogosian, RD, TB (1-6-7, 27 GP, 47.5 CF%, 45.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.143M
Oft-injured defenseman won a Stanley Cup with the Lightning in his first career playoff appearance.
65. Ron Hainsey, RD/LD, OTT (1-11-12, 64 GP, 47.3 CF%, 47.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 39; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.5M
Even though he doesn’t do much with the puck on his stick anymore, Hainsey is still a solid enough defender at the blueline and still plays more than 20 minutes per game.
66. Drake Caggiula, LW, CHI (9-6-15, 40 GP, 48.6 CF%, 48.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.5M
Hard-driving winger who plays bigger than his size but also gets hurt as a result. A depth winger who can chip in some offensively, scoring 41 goals in 222 career games.
67. Dominik Simon, LW, PIT (7-15-22, 64 GP, 52.3 CF%, 50.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.2M
A solid checking forward who can create some chances but has been a terrible finisher. That lack of scoring limits his upside but Simon should be able to help a team in a depth role.
68. Aaron Dell, G, SJ (33 GP, .907 SV%, .909 EVSV%, .841 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.9M
Has been okay, a little below average, as a backup for four seasons but nothing to indicate that he should be taking on more responsibility.
69. Nick Cousins, C, VGK (10-15-25, 65 GP, 54.8 CF% 57.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
A versatile checking forward who can provide solid minutes in the bottom half of the forward depth chart, Cousins has moved around a bit but could provide decent value on a relatively minimal investment.
70. Kyle Clifford, LW, TOR (7-10-17, 69 GP, 53.6 CF%, 53.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.6M
Although Clifford is a fourth-line winger who had a career-high 21 points in 2018-2019, he is a consistent performer in his role. He bangs bodies, fights when needed, and keeps the puck moving in the right direction and that makes him a little more appealing for that limited role.
71. Slater Koekkoek, LD, CHI (1-9-10, 42 GP, 51.9 CF%, 53.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $925K
It’s been a long road for the 10th pick in the 2012 Draft, but Koekkoek was really effective in a career-high 42 games for the Blackhawks last season. It was a small sample but Koekkoek was very effective defensively on a Blackhawks team that has had defensive problems for quite a while now.
72. Mark Borowiecki, LD, OTT (7-11-18, 53 GP, 43.9 CF%, 48.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.2M
He might handle the puck like it’s a grenade, though he did have a career-high seven goals and 18 points last season, but the hard-nosed blueliner has found his niche as a designated hitter who is at least competent at defending the blueline.
73. Malcolm Subban, G, CHI (21 GP, .890 SV%, .895 EVSV%, .833 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $850K
It’s understandable if the Blackhawks don’t necessarily believe that Subban is their goaltender of the future. He has a .901 save percentage in 66 career games but it does sound like Chicago plans to bring him back to pair with Collin Delia in 2020-2021.
74. Derick Brassard, LW, NYI (10-22-32, 66 GP, 49.5 CF%, 48.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.2M
A veteran forward who has the skills of a player who peaked with 60 points in 2014-2015 but has also lost a step at this stage of his career so he’s not able to generate offense in the same way. Brassard has capably filled a bottom-six role for the Islanders and should probably generate enough interest to secure a contract for next season, provided the price is right and the role is suitable.
75. Tomas Nosek, C, VGK (8-7-15, 67 GP, 52.2 CF%, 54.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
A 28-year-old who has been a steady fourth-line centre for the past three seasons in Vegas, Nosek is strong on faceoffs (53.1% for his career) and drives play effectively in a depth role. He’s not going to score a ton but can fill a depth role as a checker.
76. Jan Rutta, RD, TB (1-6-7, 33 GP, 53.2 CF%, 55.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.3M
A useful depth defenseman who played a handful of games during the Lighting’s Stanley Cup run, Rutta has played 70 regular-season games in the past two seasons.
77. Carter Verhaeghe, LW, TB (9-4-13, 52 GP, 55.4 CF%, 54.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
Quiet contributor to Tampa Bay’s Stanley Cup win, the 25-year-old rookie winger has worked his way up, including a couple of stints in the ECHL, and he brought some offensive chops to the fourth line. Might be able to land a bigger role with a team that isn’t quite as loaded up front.
78. Jon Merrill, LD, VGK (2-5-7, 49 GP, 52.5 CF%, 55.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.375M
In seven NHL seasons, Merrill has played more than 60 games just once, but that may be just where he fits, as a serviceable seventh defenseman.
79. Travis Boyd, C, WSH (3-7-10, 24 GP, 54.0 CF%, 51.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $800K
A right-shot centre, Boyd has put up 31 points in 85 career games. He offers some skill but maybe not typicaly grit expected in a fourth-line role.
80. Riley Sheahan, C, EDM (8-7-15, 66 GP, 44.0 CF%, 44.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $900K
A competent, if one-dimensional, checking centre, Sheahan was a useful offensive contributor during his best years in Detroit but he’s not remotely dangerous with the puck at this point.
81. Nathan Beaulieu, LD, WPG (1-7-8, 38 GP, 45.3 F%, 44.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
Beaulieu’s game has declined since leaving Montreal and he is not without talent. He can handle the puck and is tough enough but he’s also erratic which probably leaves him as a No. 7 defenseman on most teams.
82. Andy Greene, LD, NYI (2-12-14, 63 GP, 45.1 CF%, 46.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 38; 2019-2020 cap hit: $5.0M
The veteran blueliner has turned in a nice career and might still be able to fill a depth role for a team seeking leadership and a defensive focus but it will be at a severely reduced price.
83. Jack Johnson, LD, PIT (3-8-11, 67 GP, 47.0 CF%, 47.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 33; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.25M
Much-maligned defenseman has had high expectations throughout his career, since getting drafted third overall in 2005, but his performance has never come close to that. He consistently gets outshot, badly, and has been outscored by 110 goals at even strength over the course of his career. If a team is going to sign him, his role should be limited but, so far, they haven’t been able to help themselves.
84. Mike Smith, G, EDM (39 GP, .902 SV%, .902 EVSV%, .776 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 38; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.0M
Smith has had one great season and a lot of middle-of-the-road seasons but the past couple of seasons have not been so good so it’s going to take quite a leap of faith for a team to invest in him for a significant role at this point.
85. Craig Anderson, G, OTT (34 GP, .902 SV%, .913 EVSV%, .827 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.75M
Anderson has had a solid career, with a few outstanding seasons and quite a few above average campaigns, but the past three seasons have not been great and counting on improvement from a 39-year-old goaltender may be wishful thinking.
86. Colin Wilson, LW, COL (0-4-4, 9 GP, 55.1 CF%, 60.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.6M
A veteran winger who played just nine games this season, after having surgery on a lower-body injury, Wilson has had a solid enough career as a middle-six forward. He has produced more than 30 points in five different seasons and has had some strong postseason performances (contributing 31 points in 52 games through his past five playoffs). He’s over 30, coming off surgery, so the end of the line may be getting close, but if he’s healthy he could provide value on a reasonable deal.
87. Brendan Perlini, LW, DET (1-3-4, 40 GP, 41.5 CF%, 33.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $874K
Big winger who scored 45 goals in his first three seasons before having a spectacularly poor season with the last-place Red Wings. He can handle the puck a bit and might be worth a flier in the hopes that he could bounce back in a better situation.
88. Brian Boyle, LW, FLA (6-9-5, 39 GP, 43.0 CF%, 43.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.2M
A 35-year-old who is widely regarded as a great guy and has recovered from leukemia, Boyle nevertheless had a tough season on the ice, getting the wrong end of shot and expected goals metrics in a way that he didn’t previously. Considering his age, and performance, the end may be near, but he’s also the kind of depth guy that could get another chance.
89. Patrick Marleau, LW, PIT (11-11-22, 66 GP, 49.8 CF%, 49.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 41; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
It’s been a phenomenal career that includes 562 goals in 1,723 games and, at age 41, it’s probably the end of the line.
90. Michael Del Zotto, LD, ANA (2-13-15, 49 GP, 47.2 CF%, 45.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $750K
Veteran defenseman can still move the puck but is far too forgiving when it comes to defending his blueline.
91. Dmitry Kulikov, LD, WPG (2-8-10, 51 GP, 50.9 CF%, 44.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.333M
Veteran defenseman who has had an uneven career yet still played 20 minutes per game for the Jets in 2019-2020.
92. Joakim Ryan, LD, LA (1-4-5, 35 GP, 52.3 CF%, 55.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $725K
Not much of an offensive contributor, Ryan has one goal and 12 points in 79 games over the past two seasons but was effective enough defensively. Still trying to earn a regular place in the lineup.
93. Mirco Mueller, LD, NJ (2-5-7, 50 GP, 43.8 CF%, 42.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.4M
A first-round pick for San Jose in 2013, Mueller hasn’t been able to earn a full-time spot, though he has played 103 games for the Devils in the past two seasons. He defends the blueline but does not contribute much on the attack.
94. Derek Grant, C, PHI (15-10-25, 56 GP, 40.1 CF%, 39.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
After scoring a career-high 15 goals and 25 points, one might be seduced into thinking that Grant should be more than a fourth-line centre but that would ignore that he was absolutely crushed in terms of shot and expected goal differentials. It wasn’t typically that bad for him prior to last season, so Grant will warrant another chance somewhere
95. Tyler Pitlick, RW, PHI (8-12-20, 63 GP, 46.8 CF%, 47.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
A reliable checking winger who doesn’t crate much offensively, Pitlick shouldn’t cost much but he’s an okay fourth-line option.
96. Michael Frolik, RW, BUF (6-8-14, 57 GP, 49.5 CF%, 46.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.3M
Production dropped off a cliff last season but Frolik has been a productive and competitive player for a long time. Will the veteran winger stay in the NHL?
97. Trevor Lewis, RW, LA (6-6-12, 56 GP, 52.8 CF%, 54.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 33; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.0M
Although he doesn’t have a great deal of finishing talent, Lewis continues to control play in a depth role and maybe he will have to move on from the Kings but could still help a team in a fourth-line role.
98. Stefan Noesen, RW, SJ (7-2-9, 40 GP, 50.2 CF%, 52.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
He’s not going to produce much offense and he tends to be in a perpetual battle for a spot in the lineup but Noesen is reliable enough defensively that he probably warrants another contract.
99. Jayce Hawryluk, RW, OTT (3-7-10, 26 GP, 53.0 CF%, 52.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $874K
Energy winger has accumulated 22 points and 166 hits in 68 games over the past two seasons. Should be worth a look in a depth role.
100. Frederik Gauthier, C, TOR (7-5-12, 61 GP, 46.0 CF%, 44.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $675K
Freddie The Goat is a big centre who can win faceoffs (52.7% for his career) but scores very little (31 points in 168 games) and isn’t very aggressive, which seems like an opportunity lost.
101. Christian Folin, RD, MTL (1-1-2, 16 GP, 55.9 CF%, 50.7 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $800K
An adequate depth defenseman, Folin doesn’t create much offensively but can hold his own in a limited role.
102. Madison Bowey, RD, DET (3-14-17, 53 GP, 44.1 CF%, 41.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
Has spent the past three seasons in a part-time role, playing a career-high 53 games for the Red Wings in 2019-2020 and took some lumps because of shaky decision-making, especially in the defensive zone. If he can’t crack the Red Wings lineup, Bowey is going to have to battle for a spot in the league.
103. Deryk Engelland, RD, VGK (1-5-6, 49 GP, 51.0 CF%, 53.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 38; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
While Engelland has typically been outshot during his career, he has been a useful third pairing defenseman in Vegas. Maybe he could stick around as a seventh defenseman or maybe this will be the end of the line.
104. Luke Schenn, RD, TB (1-2-3, 25 GP, 47.7 CF%, 44.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
It was a long, strange trip from being a first-round pick to winning a Stanley Cup with the Lightning in 2020. Schenn has been a spare part, dressing in 50 games, total, for three teams over the past two seasons.
105. Dominic Toninato, C, FLA (4-7-11, 46 GP, 45.8 CF%, 46.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $775K
A checking centre who has managed just 14 points in 85 games, Toninato can get the puck out of the defensive zone but isn’t any kind of threat offensively.
106. Nate Thompson, C, PHI (4-11-15, 70 GP, 48.1 CF%, 48.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 36; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
A hard-working fourth-liner, Thompson has carved out a long career, suiting up for eight teams in 767 regular-season games. He provides little offensively, scoring more than 20 points just once, but is good on draws and seems like a good team guy.
106. Brad Richardson, C, ARZ (6-5-11, 59 GP, 43.4 CF%, 45.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 35; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.25M
The veteran forward can still win draws and started the vast majority of his shifts in the defensive zone but he got caved in in 2019-2020 so it could be tough for him to find a new home. He is just one year removed from scoring a career-best 19 goals.
107. Oscar Fantenberg, LD, VAN (1-5-6, 36 GP, 43.5 CF%, 44.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $850K
A depth defenseman who can make a decent first pass but hasn’t been able to secure a regular spot with Los Angeles, Calgary, or Vancouver.
108. Devin Shore, LW, CBJ (5-7-12, 45 GP, 46.4 CF%, 44.6 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.3M
Skilled puckhandling forward can contribute secondary offense but is a defensive liability so there’s a trade-off.
109. Tobias Rieder, LW/RW, CGY (4-6-10, 55 GP, 47.9 CF%, 42.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
After scoring no goals in 67 games in 2018-2019, Rieder rebounded to tally four goals in 55 games this season then added three in 10 playoff games. He’s a capable checking winger with good speed and not much finishing ability.
110. Matt Martin, LW, NYI (5-3-8, 55 GP, 43.8 CF%, 47.1 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 31; 2019-2020 cap hit: $2.5M
Martin provides fourth-line muscle and can skate well enough to hit and play a limited role but he offers very little with the puck (though he put up five goals in the 2020 playoffs) and if a team is going to sign him it would have to be for significantly less than his current deal.
111. John Hayden, RW, NJ (3-1-4, 43 GP, 38.6 CF%, 36.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $750K
Agitating winger was buried last season and is going to be hard-pressed to land an NHL spot after managing 26 points in 156 career games.
112. Valentin Zykov, LW, VGK (1-3-4, 15 GP, 47.5 CF%, 42.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 25; 2019-2020 cap hit: $675K
A big winger who has shown that he can score in the AHL, Zykov has 17 points in 55 career NHL games.
113. Luca Sbisa, LD, WPG (2-8-10, 44 GP, 46.7 CF%, 43.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $750K
Sbisa’s career hasn’t necessarily lived up to his first-round draft status but he’s played 548 games in the league. He can move the puck but is not reliable enough without it.
114. Anthony Bitetto, LD, WPG (0-8-8, 51 GP, 47.0 CF%, 43.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
Limited puck skills, and has two goals in 183 career games, but not bad defending the blueline which makes him a viable option in a depth role.
115. Dryden Hunt, LW, FLA (0-4-4, 21 GP, 51.3 CF%, 53.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $715K
Hustling winger has 15 points and 124 hits in 63 games over the past three seasons. Might not be a full-time NHLer but could be pretty useful as organizational depth.
116. Austin Czarnik, RW, CGY (2-1-3, 8 GP, 50.0 CF%, 46.3 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.25M
Smallish forward has scored in the AHL (186 points in 186 AHL games in the past five seasons) but has been a more modest contributor in the NHL (38 points in 121 games). Could still be useful organizational depth.
117. Greg McKegg, C, NYR (5-4-9, 53 GP, 42.1 CF%, 43.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
McKegg played a career-high 53 games this season but struggled in a depth role for the Rangers. Given his modest NHL production, he would have to be on a two-way deal.
118. Kevin Rooney, C, NJ (4-5-9, 49 GP, 43.2 CF%, 44.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
Has managed 19 points in 95 career games while on the NHL bubble with New Jersey. If he’s on that bubble with the Devils, he may be hard-pressed to secure an NHL spot.
119. Nick Shore, C, WPG (3-3-6, 63 GP, 44.3 CF%, 39.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $750K
A one-dimensional centre who suppresses shots against but was unable to generate anything offensively in 2019-2020. He had pushed play more effectively in previous seasons and was strong on faceoffs (55.1%) last season, which might be enough to generate interest in a depth role.
120. Joakim Nordstrom, LW, BOS (4-3-7, 48 GP, 43.2 CF%, 40.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 32; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.0M
A checking winger who creates little to no offense, Nordstrom has had some passable seasons in a depth role. 2019-2020 wasn’t really one of them, though, so he could be headed back to Europe.
121. Brandon Davidson, LD, SJ (0-0-0, 12 GP, 49.8 CF%, 45.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 29; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
Cancer survivor has been battling for a regular spot in the league and has tried with six different teams and yet has played just 22 NHL games in the past two seasons.
122. Dakota Mermis, LD, NJ (1-3-4, 10 GP, 47.2 CF%, 53.9 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
Was effective in a late-season stint with the Devils but he’s a 26-year-old who has played 20 career NHL games.
123. Christoffer Ehn, C, DET (2-2-4, 54 GP, 41.6 CF%, 38.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $759K
Plays a sound defensive game but provides next-to-nothing on the offensive end, managing 13 points in 114 career games.
124. Louis Domingue, G, VAN (17 GP, .882 SV%, .879 EVSV%, .707 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 28; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.15M
Not a great season in 2019-2020 but Domingue could be worth a look as a low-end backup or, more likely, a high-quality No. 3.
125. Andreas Englund, LD, OTT (0-3-3, 24 GP, 46.9 CF%, 42.8 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $700K
A non-factor offensively, with three assists in 33 career games, the lanky blueliner will hit but hasn’t been able to make a strong push for an NHL job.
126. Cory Schneider, G, NJ (13 GP, .887 SV%, .893 EVSV%, .795 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 34; 2019-2020 cap hit: $6.0M
Schneider had three good seasons for the Devils but, unfortunately, he played there for seven seasons and injuries contributed to his decline.
127. Taro Hirose, RW, DET (2-5-7, 26 GP, 42.9 CF%, 36.4 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 24; 2019-2020 cap hit: $925K
Smallish winger had 14 points in 36 games since getting signed as a free agent out of Michigan State but was buried in terms of territorial play last season. He may get a shot elsewhere but it’s not ideal when the worst team in the league decides they are better off without you.
128. Jimmy Howard, G, DET (27 GP, .882 SV%, .895 EVSV%, .743 HDSV%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 36; 2019-2020 cap hit: $4.0M
Played like he was already retired last season but apparently still wants to play. Would seem to be a high-risk or desperation option now.
Re-Signed before making it to UFA:
Dylan DeMelo, RD, WPG (0-10-10, 59 GP, 52.5 CF%, 54.0 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 27; 2019-2020 cap hit: $900K
It has taken some time for the 27-year-old to get his due. He didn’t play much in San Jose then thrived in a bigger role with Ottawa before finishing last season in Winnipeg. He hits free agency as a viable top-four defenseman who is better without the puck but can still help create a bit of offense, too.
Brenden Dillon, LD, WSH (1-13-14, 69 GP, 51.7 CF%, 52.2 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 30; 2019-2020 cap hit: $3.27M
Physical blueliner was playing a bigger role last season in San Jose and then in Washington. He will be appealing for teams looking to muscle up on defense but is also the type of stay-at-home physical defenseman that tends to get overpaid in free agency.
Zemgus Girgensons, LW, BUF (12-7-19, 69 GP, 49.4 CF%, 47.5 xGF%)
Age (as of Dec. 1): 26; 2019-2020 cap hit: $1.6M
A fourth-line winger who is an offensive liability, Girgensons is a strong checking winger so there is a well-defined role for him as a defensive forward and penalty killer. It’s lunch-pail and hard-hat type work but the world needs ditch diggers, too.
Salary info from Cap Friendly; stats from Natural Stat Trick and Hockey Reference.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and have bookmarked it for future reference. Would you consider projecting players likely to be overpaid/underpaid? Sami Vatanen sticks out to me as someone who may be overpaid. While Craig Smith and Dylan DeMelo stick out as potential underpaid players.