NHL free agency begins on July 1, and goaltending is arguably the most pivotal area teams will address. The league’s net‑minder market will be influenced by veteran goaltenders who have been linked to trades, such as Adin Hill, Jordan Binnington and Jacob Markström. However, the pool of unrestricted free agents currently available will require only salary‑cap commitments from interested clubs.
Below is a rundown of the five top UFA goaltenders as listed on The Hockey News’ recent Top 50 UFA list. Each profile includes age, previous cap hit, recent season statistics, and the potential impact they could have on contending or rebuilding franchises.
1. Sergei Bobrovsky, G, Florida Panthers
Age: 37
Previous cap hit: $10 million
2025‑26 stats: 27‑23‑1, 3.07 GAA, .877 SP
Bobrovsky enters free agency with a résumé that includes two Stanley Cup rings and two Vezina Trophy honors as the NHL’s top netminder. Despite a sub‑par campaign with the Panthers, his performance was hampered by a series of health‑related setbacks for the club. He is seeking a six‑ or seven‑year contract, a request that would keep him on the ice until ages 43‑44—well beyond the typical retirement age for goaltenders. A four‑ or five‑year deal at roughly $6‑$7 million per season may be his most realistic option. Florida’s limited cap space (about $5.9 million) makes a return to the Panthers unlikely, and his departure could trigger a ripple effect throughout the goaltending market.
2. Frederik Andersen, G, Carolina Hurricanes
Age: 36
Previous cap hit: $2.75 million
2025‑26 stats: 16‑14‑5, 3.05 GAA, .874 SP
Andersen was a key factor in Carolina’s Stanley Cup victory, delivering three shutouts in the postseason. His contract demands have risen alongside the team’s success, but his play in the Cup final against Vegas—where he posted a sub‑.885 save percentage and was replaced by Brandon Bussi due to injury—creates tension for the Hurricanes’ management. Carolina GM Eric Tulsky may be unwilling to meet a high price point, while other clubs could be enticed to offer Andersen a two‑ or three‑year pact at $4‑$5 million annually.
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3. Stuart Skinner, G, Pittsburgh Penguins
Age: 27
Previous cap hit: $2.6 million
2025‑26 stats: 23‑17‑9, 2.92 GAA, .888 SP
The Penguins are in transition, having established Arturs Silovs as their projected starter for the coming seasons. While Skinner could theoretically return as a tandem partner, the organization appears to be moving away from him, even if he demands a modest price. Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has been refining the goaltending room, and Skinner likely does not fit that vision. Nevertheless, his age (27) and experience make him an attractive option for teams seeking a reliable backup or third‑string goalie. A “show‑me” contract could open the door for a longer‑term role elsewhere.
4. Connor Ingram, G, Edmonton Oilers
Age: 29
Previous cap hit: $1.95 million
2025‑26 stats: 16‑10‑3, 2.60 GAA, .899 SP
Ingram’s 2025‑26 season with Edmonton was inconsistent, yet his numbers improved compared to his brief stint with Utah. He represents an affordable, short‑term solution for a club looking to fill a 30‑40‑game role in a goaltending tandem. Potential suitors could include Edmonton itself, the Ottawa Senators, or the Florida Panthers, all of whom might value his durability and upside.
5. Cam Talbot, G, Detroit Red Wings
Age: 38
Previous cap hit: $2.5 million
2025‑26 stats: 12‑9‑6, 3.19 GAA, .883 SP
Despite playing fewer games than in the previous campaign, Talbot’s individual statistics declined, a trend accelerated by Detroit’s late‑season collapse. At age 39 in July, his performance has shown a steady dip over the last two seasons. If he is willing to accept a contract near the league minimum, a team on a budget might consider giving him a chance, recognizing his veteran presence could be valuable in the right situation, particularly for a playoff‑bound club needing depth.