Top 3 UFA Right Wingers This Summer

This list includes arguably the biggest fish this summer, along with a bunch of guys ready to prove they still have lots left in the tank.

1. Sam Reinhart - Expected salary range: $8,500,000 - $9,500,000

Player Role:  a skilled winger renowned for his hockey IQ and offensive versatility. He excels at creating scoring opportunities and has a knack for being in the right place at the right time to capitalise on chances.

Following his 57 goal and 94 point campaign for the Panthers this past season, Reinhart has earned himself a steep increase from his current $6,500,000 and will be highly sought after come July 1st. The BC native posted 9 goals and 6 assists through 15 playoff games (so far), despite going up against some of the best defence in the league including Victor Hedman and Andre Vasilevskiy, Jeremy Swayman, Igor Shesterkin and Sergei Bobrovsky. With a cap-strapped Panthers payroll this upcoming year, it seems likely they plan to bring back Reinhart, but will be a difficult decision as that won’t leave the money that will likely be needed to bring back right-shot defensemen, Brandon Montour. 

2. Jonathan Marchessault - Expected salary range: $6,000,000 - $7,500,000

Player Role: a dynamic NHL forward known for his speed, agility, and goal-scoring ability. He consistently contributes offensively, often using his quick release and playmaking skills to create scoring opportunities.

This one-year-removed Conn Smythe winner just wrapped up his 6 year, $5,000,000 AAV contract with the Vegas Golden Knights where they were crowned Stanley Cup Champions a little over a year ago. This under-sized 33 year old has proven not only to have the ability to make his linemates better, but also put the puck in the net himself as he comes off his first 40-goal season in his 11 year long career. This versatile forward can play the wing or middle of the ice, making him a highly sought after free agent for a team looking to gain some experience in the postseason. Expect to either see him back with the Golden Knights, Montreal, or to join another new team (or relocated) in the Utah HC. 

3. Patrick Kane - Expected salary range: $4,500,000 - $5,500,000

Player Role: an elite NHL winger renowned for his exceptional stickhandling, vision, and playmaking skills. He has been a key player throughout his career, consistently leading his team with his offensive production and ability to deliver in critical moments.

Following his hip resurfacing surgery last year, Kane put on an impressive performance scoring 47 points in just 50 games following some major time away from the ice. Many people believed Kane would struggle once he returned, but instead is entering a UFA period where many teams will be looking to utilise his experience and offensive repertoire. He posted an on-ice expected goals % of 56.4, his best since 2018. Now, there is lots of speculation as to where Kane may head, whether is it to his hometown Sabres, the Bruins, or to add some more scoring to the wagon that is the Florida Panthers. 

Honourable Mentions: Matt Duchene, Vladimir Tarasenko, Tyler Toffoli, David Perron