On the Top 12 2018 NHL unrestricted free agents …
Luke Fox of Sportsnet: Looking at the top 12 NHL free agents for this offseason, and some rumors and notes that are linked to the players.
1. John Tavares – New York Islanders – Islanders and Tavares have always said they hope for a long-term deal. The Canadiens, Maple Leafs and Sharks could have offers ready if he hits the open market. Hiring Lou Lamoriello was a good move for the Islanders.
2. John Carlson – Washington Capitals – There will be lots of interest in the right-handed puck-moving defenseman. He’s the top priority for the Capitals, but there could be a bidding war for him. He could get $8 million a year.
3. James van Riemsdyk – Toronto Maple Leafs – JvR wants to remain with the Leafs but his salary would be hard to fit in. Teams that could be interested include the Hurricanes, Golden Knights, Islanders, Devils and Sharks.
4. Paul Stastny – Winnipeg Jets – Likely too expensive for the Jets to re-sign. Was one of the best trade deadline acquisitions with 15 points in 17 playoff games.
5. Ilya Kovalchuk – KHL – The Rangers are reportedly the top landing spot, but the Islanders could also be in on Kovalchuk.
6. James Neal – Vegas Golden Knights – Nick Kypreos said Neal could ask for $6.5 to $7 million per season on a long-term deal. Vegas may not be interested in going long-term for 30+ players.
7. David Perron – Vegas Golden Knights – Career high in points and assists this past season. The Golden Knights may opt to go cheaper and younger.
”I’m looking for eight years, $10 million a year,” Perron told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He was joking. “I don’t really want to touch on . I think it would be unfair for everyone to talk about that. I don’t want to jinx anything.”
8. Mike Green – Detroit Red Wings – His season was cut short due to a neck injury and underwent surgery back in April.
9. John Moore – New Jersey Devils – The 27-year old played close to 20 minutes per game last season. Could double or triple his $1.67 million salary from this past season. He wants to stay in New Jersey.
10. Riley Nash – Boston Bruins – He’s a solid third line center. Could sign somewhere for three or four years.
11. Rick Nash – Boston Bruins – He could be open to returning to the Rangers this offseason. Didn’t have a great run with the Bruins and dealt with a concussion.
12. Michael Grabner – New Jersey Devils – Didn’t produce much after the Devils acquired him – five points in 21 regular season games and nothing in two playoff games.