Time moves quickly and it is never too early to peak into what the 2019 NHL Free Agency class may look like.
Our first look presents the top tier forwards that could be available next July 1st. Order does not indicate rank but just a general order.
The 2019 Free Agency Top Tier Forwards
Artemi Panarin — Left Wing — Columbus Blue Jackets
Panarin turned heads this year when he produced 82 points in 81 games, proving that maybe Patrick Kane missed him more than most thought. The forward has given Columbus management until September 13th to make a move — albeit trade or extension. After that, Panarin’s focus will solely be on the ice. His alleged preference has been to play near an ocean.
Chances he goes UFA: 80 percent. All signs keep indicating that Panarin either hits free agency or even is traded. He will be almost turning 28 in October of 2019, so several prime years are still on the horizon. Top five All-Star talents are hard to find and he will be highly sought after.
Tyler Seguin — Center — Dallas Stars
Seguin scored 40 times last year, even with a few noticeable downturns. What could he do in a contract year? This is a player who has tallied 25 times in the past two seasons on the man advantage. He remains a dangerous threat at any time from anywhere on the ice. An extension has not been offered yet, but surely it has been discussed. He will only be making $5.75 million in 2018-19 and Jamie Benn signed a deal where he earns $9.5 million AAV. Seguin will get paid.
Chances he goes UFA: 30 percent. Dallas wants to lock in Seguin long-term. Those prime years are important and the Stars enjoy a bit of an advantage with income tax laws. An extension seems likely and could be announced even around training camp.
Joe Pavelski — Center — San Jose Sharks
Pavelski brings about an intriguing debate. What does a team do with a player who will be 34 as an unrestricted free agent? He endured a bit of a down year with just 66 points and a shooting percentage under 10%. That was his first year below 10% in seven seasons. Pavelski makes $6 million a year and would want at least a slight raise.
Chances he goes UFA: 40 percent. This is higher than most would expect. Logan Couture appears in line to be the next captain so where does that leave Pavelski. Likely, he wants to stay and Joe Thornton‘s last year may be 2018-19. San Jose needs one of the best net-front presences in the game (tips alone) and other teams will be waiting.
Blake Wheeler — Center/Wing — Winnipeg Jets
Wheeler enjoyed his best career season with 91 points (a league-leading 68 assists) with Winnipeg. He will be 33 at the start of next season though. How much does Winnipeg pay him given they still have a few UFA’s and RFA’s to sign? Wheeler and Mark Scheifele are one of the most dynamic duos in the league.
Chances he goes UFA: 20 percent. After losing Paul Stastny this summer, Winnipeg will not let that happen with Wheeler. The term of the deal, like with Pavelski, will be a matter for considerable debate.
Jeff Skinner — Left Wing — Carolina Hurricanes
Skinner and Max Pacioretty are like two peas in a pod. Pacioretty appears more likely to be traded at this time. However, that can change. If Skinner sticks in Carolina and gets top-six linemates, look out! With a contract year and coming out a regression season, Skinner could easily top 30 goals (did score 37 in 2016-17). Carolina improved a good bit in the off-season as well.
Chances he goes UFA: 40 percent. The strange part is Skinner still is more likely to be traded. The new regime in Carolina could make an impression but they may just try to increase Skinner’s price before the trade deadline.