NHL 2025 Free Agency Expected Surge with Elevated Salary Cap

The 2025 NHL free agency period, beginning July 1, is poised to be highly active with the salary cap increasing to $95.5 million, prompting teams to aggressively pursue top unrestricted free agents. Among the most valuable players available is winger Mitch Marner, who is expected to command around $12.5 million due to his elite offensive and defensive contributions, while Nikolaj Ehlers offers strong potential for surplus value. The Minnesota Wild, having made the playoffs in 2025, are focused on addressing their lack of top-six forward depth, particularly at center, with Matt Duchene a prime free agent target to provide stability and scoring ability. Eastern Conference teams face key decisions on restricted and unrestricted free agents, with notable players like Morgan Geekie and JJ Peterka being crucial to their teams' futures. Meanwhile, the Utah Mammoth, with significant cap space and a young core, face challenges in retaining veteran presence and adding playoff experience after losing key forwards like Nick Bjugstad. Several top unrestricted free agents, including Brock Boeser, are considered flight risks who could change teams, motivated by the rising cap, contract length, or new opportunities.