NHL free agency continues with multiple players unsigned

NHL free agency extended into a second day with several prominent players still unsigned. Patrick Kane, a three-time Stanley Cup champion, remains available after three seasons with one team. Vladimir Tarasenko, Anthony Mantha, and Claude Giroux are also unsigned.

More than 55 players changed teams in the first 11 hours of free agency, generating over $360 million in contract value. Bowen Byram signed the highest average annual salary for a defenseman at $12.5 million beginning in 2027.

Salary cap effects The salary cap increase to $104 million allowed several teams to retain key players. New Jersey extended its captain, Florida re-signed a center, and Philadelphia signed its goaltender to a long-term deal. New Jersey also submitted an offer sheet to Utah's Barrett Hayton worth $4.775 million.

Utah has one week to match or receive a second-round draft pick as compensation. Dallas signed forward Joel Kiviranta to a one-year contract. Columbus confirmed that its defenseman Zach Werenski will remain with the team under his existing deal.