NHL free agency starts with top players Rasmus Andersson and Alex Ovechkin
CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 1:02 PM
Last updated Jun 30, 2026
NHL free agency kicks off on Wednesday, July 1, featuring notable players including Rasmus Andersson and Alex Ovechkin. The free agent class is considered underwhelming, with some anticipation around possible signings of other top players like Sergei Bobrovsky., the Carolina Hurricanes have acquired the rights to John Carlson, and the Florida Panthers may reunite with Radko Gudas. Teams are eager to secure their stars amid a rising salary cap and competitive market. The unveiling of the top 30 NHL free agents will provide more clarity on the of team rosters.
- •Free agency begins July 1 with a limited talent pool.
- •Rasmus Andersson leads the free-agent rankings.
- •Carolina Hurricanes acquire rights to John Carlson.
- •Florida Panthers may re-sign Radko Gudas.
- •Alex Ovechkin's future remains uncertain, potentially retiring or returning to the Capitals.
- 1:02 PMCBS Sports — 2026 NHL free agent tracker: Rasmus Andersson, John Carlson, Sergei Bobrovsky, Alex Ovechkin lead rankings
"Where will the NHL's top free agents land?
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