Tip: NHL Free-Agent Signings: The Best and Worst Deals

On the first day of the NHL’s annual free-agent frenzy, numerous contracts were signed, sparking significant discussion. Here is a concise evaluation of the best and worst deals made, highlighting key players and their projected impact.

Best Deals

Sam Reinhart, Florida Panthers
Contract: $8.625M x 8 years

Reinhart’s 57 goals and Selke Trophy nomination made him worth much more, but the Panthers secured him for less, offering significant value.

Jake Guentzel, Tampa Bay Lightning
Contract: $9.0M x 7 years

Guentzel’s play-driving ability and scoring potential make this deal a win for the Lightning, despite the high price.

Matt Duchene, Dallas Stars
Contract: $3.0M x 1 year

Duchene’s one-year deal is a steal, providing high value for a modest price in a thin center market. This is probably the best contract signed yesterday. Which might be necessary considering the questionable deals Dallas made with new defensemen.

Anthony Duclair, New York Islanders
Contract: $3.5M x 4 years

Duclair’s speed and scoring boost the Islanders’ top six, making this deal well worth its price.

Worst Deals

Elias Lindholm, Boston Bruins
Contract: $7.75M x 7 years

Lindholm’s recent performance raises doubts about this high-risk, long-term deal.

Nikita Zadorov, Boston Bruins
Contract: $5.0M x 6 years

Another deal that feels far too expensive for the Boston Bruins. It could be detrimental in the long term. Zadorov’s unproven top-four potential makes this contract too lengthy and expensive.

Chandler Stephenson, Seattle Kraken
Contract: $6.25M x 7 years

At 30, Stephenson’s seven-year deal at a high cost seems unsustainable given his declining speed. So far, I have liked what the Seattle Kraken have done, but this deal risks being the worst of them all.

Joel Edmundson, Los Angeles Kings
Contract: $3.8M x 4 years

Edmundson’s current form does not justify this lengthy and costly contract for a third-pairing player. It is hard to see what made the Kings pay so much money.