NHL Free Agency 2025: Top Forwards Set to Hit the Market!

Perry, United States - As we step into the July heat of 2025, the hockey world is abuzz with excitement. Today marks the opening of NHL Free Agency, a time when teams load their rosters and shake things up in pursuit of victory. This year’s top available forwards have already generated plenty of chatter among fans and insiders alike.

Among the most watched players is 28-year-old right wing Brock Boeser, who has carved out a commendable season with the Vancouver Canucks, tallying 50 points in 75 games. Selected with the No. 23 pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, Boeser has proven his mettle by accumulating an impressive total of 434 points—204 goals and 230 assists—over his career thus far, including 23 points in playoff games. If teams are looking for a game-changer, Boeser seems poised to be one of the key signings this summer. NHL.com reports that Boeser is highly sought after, and it’s easy to see why.

Dadonov and Drouin: Veteran Influence

At the other end of the age spectrum, 36-year-old Evgenii Dadonov continues to demonstrate his value. With 40 points (20 goals and 20 assists) in 80 games for the Dallas Stars, Dadonov remains a reliable choice as he ventures into free agency. His experience in the playoffs, with four points across 16 games, only solidifies his reputation as a seasoned forward. Drafted 71st by the Florida Panthers in 2007, he has tallied 361 points in the regular season and brings with him the weight of over 50 playoff games.

Not to be overlooked, Jonathan Drouin, 30 years old and sporting a respectable 37 points in 43 games for the Colorado Avalanche, also awaits a new contract. His ability to rack up assists—26 of them this season—makes him a valuable asset to any team looking to boost their offensive strategies. Drouin’s playoff contributions with three assists in seven games also add to his appeal.

Ehlers Shines in Winnipeg

Perhaps the brightest star among free-agent forwards is 29-year-old Nikolaj Ehlers. The Finnish talent dropped jaws with 63 points in 69 games, sizzling with 24 goals and 39 assists while donning the Winnipeg Jets jersey. Ehlers stepped up in the playoffs as well, contributing seven points across eight games. Original in the first round of the 2014 NHL Draft, his career totals of 520 points highlight his capabilities and potential impact on any new team he joins.

As free agency kicks off, teams must consider their standings in anticipation of the upcoming NHL season. The Eastern Conference, dominated by the Toronto Maple Leafs with 108 points, showcases fierce competition within the Atlantic Division, where the Florida Panthers finished with 93 points. It’s a pivotal time for those like the Panthers, as they balance roster adjustments with aspirations to climb higher in the standings come October, when the new season begins.

A Changing Landscape

This is a crucial juncture for all teams involved, particularly with anticipated events lined up, such as the much-anticipated NHL Winter Classic featuring the Panthers against the Rangers on January 2, 2026, and the NHL Stadium Series set for February 1, 2026, with the Lightning facing off against the Bruins

With decisions looming and strategic maneuvers on the horizon, it’s clear that this year’s free agency could very well shape the future of several franchises. As players like Boeser, Dadonov, Drouin, and Ehlers explore their options, fans will be watching closely, hopeful that their teams can make the right moves to secure success for the 2025-26 season. In the realm of hockey, as in life, there’s something to be said for timing, and right now, the clock is ticking.

For updated stats and player details, check out Hockey-Reference, a new feature that allows fans to keep track of personal Grid Stats and delve deeper into player analytics as we head into this exciting period.