The 2025 NHL free-agent market, which kicks off on July 1, is shaping up as one of the most intriguing in recent memory. With a record salary cap increase of $7.5 million, rising from $88 million to $95.5 million, teams have newfound flexibility. Yet, unlike past years brimming with star power, this year's crop of unrestricted free agents (UFAs) feels shallow, putting a premium on those still unsigned.

Top talents including Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, and Aaron Ekblad have already found new homes via sign-and-trade deals or extension offers. That leaves a narrow but compelling remaining group spotlighted in today's breakdown.

1. Brock Boeser – Wing (Canucks)

Boeser, 28, is an attractive scoring winger who recorded 25 goals and 25 assists in 75 games last season. Known for his dual-threat play, he offers a potent combination of sniping and forechecking. Although the Canucks struggled, he's expected to command major interest from contenders hungry for top-six talent. Reports suggest teams like Winnipeg, Boston, Edmonton, and possibly the Kings and Wild are monitoring his status.

2. Nikolaj Ehlers – Left Wing (Jets)

Ehlers continues to be the top UFA following the departures of Marner, Marchand, and Ekblad. A point-per-game producer with 63 points in 69 games, he combines elite skating with playmaking ability. With the salary cap expansion, he’s positioned to receive a hefty raise beyond his prior $6 million average annual value. Teams with ample cap space, like Carolina, are expected to engage in a bidding war.

3. Brent Burns – Defense (Hurricanes)

At 40, Burns may be one of the oldest active players, but he's far from irrelevant. Featuring prominently in Carolina's deep playoff run and logging nearly 23 minutes per game, he brings experience, versatility, and grit. While he may not deliver top-line minutes over a full season, his leadership and physical presence make him a valuable acquisition for contenders looking for veteran depth on the blue line.

4. Dmitry Orlov – Defense (Hurricanes)

Once the Panthers re-signed Ekblad, Orlov emerged as the premier defenseman still on the board. At 33, he remains a reliable two-way blueliner, contributing depth to both transition play and defense. Though not flashy, Orlov's consistent play and recent experience on a contending roster make him a quality pickup, especially for teams looking to balance experience and salary.

5. Jeff Skinner – Center (Oilers)

Skinner, 33, didn’t make a major playoff impact last season, but is still among the top centers available. With a season stat line of 16 goals and 13 assists over 72 games, he offers veteran presence and scoring punch, likely in a second- or third-line role. His fit is ideal for teams desiring affordable depth down the middle.

This year's UFA class, though short on superstar talent, features valuable additions who can fit seamlessly into contending rosters. The cap boost incentivizes teams to act aggressively. Big contracts are expected for someone like Boeser or Ehlers. Yet after those top names, the quality drop-off is steep.

For general managers, strategic balance between spending now and managing future cap flexibility will be critical. Those who identify the right mix of talent, fit, and timing could significantly reshape their teams heading into a pivotal offseason, especially with a much deeper free-agent class, including Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, expected in 2026.