NHL Free Agency 2025 Heats Up: One Perfect Match for Every Team
As we move deeper into June and the Stanley Cup Final winds down, the rest of the NHL is laser-focused on what comes next — the frenzy of free agency opening on July 1. And if you're a fan of offseason drama, this summer’s free agency pool promises some fascinating matchups between teams and available stars. With names like Mitch Marner, Aaron Ekblad, and Nikolaj Ehlers headlining the list of unrestricted free agents, each NHL club is on the hunt to find that one perfect fit to elevate their roster — and The Athletic’s NHL team took on the challenge of matchmaking.
The Anaheim Ducks already made waves by trading for Chris Kreider, and they’re not done. Brock Boeser is the suggested target here — a potent shooter who, even in a “down” season, would’ve led the Ducks in goals. It’s a smart Plan B if Marner is off the table and gives Anaheim flexibility while allowing young talent like Beckett Sennecke time to mature.
In Boston, Mitch Marner could be the guy to roll out after David Pastrnak. That’s a nightmare for opposing defenses and the type of move that could redefine the Bruins’ top six. Similarly, the Carolina Hurricanes, always looking for a smart two-way forward, might finally add the superstar they’ve been chasing by pursuing Marner — someone who can generate points but still play their structured system.
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Aaron Ekblad appears to be the most desired defenseman, with the Sabres, Blue Jackets, Stars, and Sharks all needing his right-shot stability and leadership. At 29, Ekblad’s not just a short-term fix — he’s someone to anchor a blue line for years.
Speed and scoring are at a premium, and that’s where Nikolaj Ehlers comes in. Calgary, Ottawa, the Islanders, and Seattle could all use a high-octane winger who can change a game with a burst of acceleration and a sharp finish. If he’s open to staying in Canada, multiple franchises will be lining up.
Other teams have to shop with cap space in mind. For example, Colorado and Tampa Bay are suggested to go for more affordable but effective players like Dante Fabbro — a right-shot defenseman with youth and mobility. Meanwhile, Edmonton is expected to hold onto Connor Brown — a glue guy with chemistry and defensive reliability who won’t cost much.
Then there’s Toronto. If Marner departs, Patrick Kane is floated as a one-year, top-line replacement. He’s older, sure, but 59 points at 36 shows there’s still gas in the tank — and the swagger he brings could be just what the Leafs need post-Marner.
Even expansion markets like Utah are in the mix, with the Mammoth potentially making a splash by targeting Marner to boost their offense and brand visibility.
All in all, every team has a different priority, whether it’s shoring up the blue line, adding a top-six forward, or improving depth — but the free agent class of 2025 offers solutions across the board. With just weeks to go until the market opens, the real games are about to begin off the ice.
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