The NHL free agency market remains active as teams adjust to a rising salary cap of $104 million for the 2026-27 season. According to data from PuckPedia, teams have finalized 166 contracts totaling $949,990,830 since the opening of the market, with several high-profile unrestricted free agents (UFAs) still seeking new deals as the second day of signings begins.
Why is the 2026-27 salary cap changing market behavior?
The jump in the salary cap from $95.5 million to $104 million has provided general managers with significant financial flexibility. This increase has fueled a rapid pace of signings, even as teams navigated the unofficial period prior to the July 1 opening. According to PuckPedia, the nearly one billion dollars in total contract value reflects an aggressive approach by front offices looking to secure talent before the remaining pool of players thins out.
The NHL salary cap increase for the 2026-27 season is significantly higher than the previous year.
Who are the top remaining UFAs on the market?
Several veteran players remain available as the market enters its second day. Based on rankings as of July 1, the following players represent some of the most notable names still without a contract for the upcoming season:
| Name | Position | Age | 2025-26 Cap Hit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patrik Laine | RW | 28 | $8,700,000 |
| Patrick Kane | RW | 37 | $3,000,000 |
| Anthony Mantha | LW | 31 | $2,500,000 |
| Claude Giroux | RW | 38 | $2,000,000 |
Which players are currently considered “on the bubble”?
Beyond the primary list of top-tier UFAs, a significant group of players remains available, often referred to as “on the bubble” regarding their next landing spot. According to market reports, this list includes:
- David Rittich
- Carson Soucy
- James Reimer
- Adam Henrique
- Calle Jarnkrok
- David Kampf
- Jesse Puljujarvi
- Reilly Smith
- Danton Heinen
- Matt Grzelcyk
- Mike Reilly
- Jeff Petry
- Pavol Regenda
- Philipp Kurashev
- Evander Kane
These players provide depth options for teams that have already addressed their primary roster needs and are now looking to finalize their lineups with experienced, cost-effective talent.
Follow the remaining movement of depth players closely, as teams often wait until the initial wave of high-priced talent is signed before making strategic, lower-cost additions to their bottom-six forward groups or defensive pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many contracts have been signed so far?
As of the start of Day 2 of free agency, 166 contracts have been signed, according to PuckPedia.
What is the total value of these contracts?
The total value of the 166 contracts signed is $949,990,830, based on PuckPedia data.
How much did the salary cap rise?
The NHL salary cap rose to $104 million for the 2026-27 season, up from $95.5 million.
Check back for updates as more signings are announced. Have a prediction on where Patrick Kane or Patrik Laine will sign? Leave a comment below to join the discussion.
