League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

NHL's top five wingers heading into free agency include Ovechkin

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 4:17 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

NHL's top five wingers heading into free agency include Ovechkin

Summary

As NHL free agency approaches on July 1, attention turns to the top wingers available. Alex Ovechkin, still an impactful scorer at 40, headlines the list as a likely pending UFA for the Washington Capitals, although retirement remains a possibility. Anthony Mantha follows with a strong 2025-26 season for the Pittsburgh Penguins, likely set for a lucrative deal. Other notable names include power forwards Mason Marchment from the Columbus Blue Jackets and Viktor Arvidsson from the Boston Bruins. Anders Lee of the New York Islanders may also test the market, adding to the competitive.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Free agency begins on July 1, 2026.
•Alex Ovechkin may retire or re-sign with the Capitals.
•Anthony Mantha targets a significant contract after a career year.
•Mason Marchment excels after a trade to Columbus, drawing interest.
•Viktor Arvidsson shows strong performance, likely to hit free agency.

Latest Updates

4:17 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 NHL free agency: Top 5 wingers include goal scoring record holder and multiple power forwards

What they're saying

"
The next position we highlight in our free agent positional rankings are wingers. There are several power forward wingers who will improve a team’s middle six, but there’s also an NHL legend who could be retiring.
— Yahoo Sports

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