Although the major free agents in the NHL have already signed, a number of players are still available for the upcoming season.
Forward Jack Roslovic is one of the notable unsigned players remaining. According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, several teams are showing interest in the 28-year-old, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, as discussed on the recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast.
Friedman believes the connection makes sense due to Roslovic`s history with Auston Matthews, having played together on the U.S. national development team. He added that Roslovic`s right-hand shot and veteran status could be appealing, noting Matthews` familiarity with him.
Roslovic had a productive season with the Carolina Hurricanes, recording 22 goals and 39 points over 81 games.
However, his role became inconsistent during the Hurricanes` playoff run, which may have impacted his free agent market value.
Toronto possesses the necessary salary cap space to sign Roslovic, particularly if he seeks a contract similar to his previous one-year, $2.8 million deal with Carolina.
A factor hindering the Leafs` ability to sign Roslovic also explains why Andrew Mangiapane, despite Toronto`s reported interest, signed with the Edmonton Oilers instead.
Friedman suggested the Leafs` need to clear cap space by moving players was a reason they missed out on Mangiapane, who wasn`t willing to wait. Roslovic, however, appears to be patient. Potential trade candidates mentioned include David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok.
Other teams reportedly considering Roslovic, who is from Columbus, include the Washington Capitals. The San Jose Sharks and Buffalo Sabres were also mentioned as potential suitors.
Oilers Pressured to Finalize Bouchard Contract
The Edmonton Oilers recognized the importance of re-signing Evan Bouchard during the off-season, but the process was apparently rushed.
According to Friedman, the threat of an offer sheet prompted General Manager Stan Bowman to promptly secure the 25-year-old defenseman with a four-year contract valued at $10.5 million annually.
Friedman stated that the Carolina Hurricanes presented an offer sheet threat to the Oilers. While many anticipated Bouchard`s contract would be around four years at $9.5 million per season, his arbitration case could have resulted in a $10 million figure.
He suggested that the Hurricanes` interest likely pushed the final contract to four years at $10.5 million. After failing to sign Bouchard, Carolina reportedly shifted their focus to K`Andre Miller. The New York Rangers, aware of this, subsequently finalized a deal with Miller that resembled a potential offer sheet.
