Top Value Free‑Agent Acquisitions in the 2026 NHL Offseason

Matthias Maccelli

The New York Islanders secured a one‑year, $2 million contract with unrestricted free agent Matthias Maccelli after the Toronto Maple Leafs opted not to qualify him. Maccelli posted a rebound season for Toronto, recording 14 goals and 39 points in 71 games, largely driven by strong playmaking ability. Projected to produce roughly 40‑50 points, he represents a valuable under‑contract option for the Islanders, who needed additional scoring depth.

With a projected market value near $4‑5 million, Maccelli is likely to outperform his $2 million cap hit. His performance could also make him an attractive trade asset for general manager Mathieu Darche should the Islanders seek a depth forward or a future assets package.

Jaden Schwartz

Colorado Avalanche general manager signed forward Jaden Schwartz to a three‑year, $3.25 million AAV contract, a move that could prove to be a significant bargain. After missing time to injury in the previous season, Schwartz posted 11 goals and 26 points in 50 games—equivalent to a 19‑goal, 44‑point pace over a full 84‑game season.

The Avalanche’s offense‑rich environment, combined with their elite five‑on‑five play, should amplify Schwartz’s production. Evaluated as a $5 million‑level player, the contract offers substantial upside for a team seeking reliable scoring depth.

Olen Zellweger

Buffalo Sabres inked defenseman Olen Zellweger to a three‑year, $3.1 million AAV extension, a deal that carries breakout potential. Although his counting stats were modest last season, Zellweger’s underlying metrics—high mobility, efficient transition play, and solid passing—are excellent.

Sabres coach Lindy Ruff’s system typically elevates defensive talent, as seen with Mattias Samuelsson and Bowen Byram. Zellweger is likely to begin the season on the third pairing, sheltered from top opposition, which could allow him to flourish against weaker competition. His next contract could easily be viewed as a bargain if the development continues.

Arseny Gritsyuk

New Jersey Devils signed right wing Arseny Gritsyuk to a three‑year, $3.25 million AAV contract, a pact that could age exceptionally well. The 2025‑26 rookie recorded 13 goals and 31 points in 66 games; advanced metrics suggest further growth is possible.

Gritsyuk was one of the Devils’ most effective five‑on‑five forwards, consistently generating offense from the rush and providing strong forechecking pressure. Many analysts projected him as a $5‑6 million AAV player on a medium‑term deal, so the current contract appears to be a clear surplus of value, particularly if he secures a top‑six role.

Jack Roslovic

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed center Jack Roslovic to a two‑year, $4 million AAV contract, ending a period of instability for the forward. Roslovic posted 21 goals and 36 points in 69 games for Edmonton in the previous season—equivalent to a 25‑goal, 44‑point pace over 84 games.

His improving finishing ability and elite skating make him a solid middle‑six addition for Toronto. In a rising cap environment, Roslovic’s recent production suggests a $5‑6 million AAV market price, so the Maple Leafs secured him at a favorable rate.

Mats Zuccarello

Los Angeles Kings added veteran winger Mats Zuccarello on a one‑year, $1 million base contract, with performance bonuses that could push his AAV to $6.5 million. Zuccarello recorded 54 points in 59 games for Minnesota, leading the team in five‑on‑five scoring efficiency with an expected‑goals percentage above 54 %.

Even at age 38, Zuccarello shows no signs of decline and is slated to boost the Kings’ top‑six offense. The front‑loading of his contract is offset by his likely overperformance, making the deal a strong value acquisition for Los Angeles.

Viktor Arvidsson

Detroit Red Wings signed winger Viktor Arvidsson to a two‑year, $5 million AAV contract, a notable response to the loss of top scorer Patrick Kane. Arvidsson compiled a 25‑goal, 54‑point season with Boston, ranking among the NHL’s most efficient five‑on‑five scorers in 2025‑26—surpassing Nikita Kucherov and Nathan MacKinnon in points per 60 minutes at even strength.

The Red Wings believe Arvidsson can immediately fill the scoring void. While his AAV exceeds typical market expectations, his proven elite production and the team’s dynamic roster situation justify the investment. The impact of the deal will be influenced by Dylan Larkin’s status and the new front office’s direction.

Mavrik Bourque

The Nashville Predators finalized a six‑year, $5.5 million AAV extension with forward Mavrik Bourque, acquiring him from Dallas in a trade for two second‑round picks. Bourque tallied 20 goals and 41 points in 81 games for the Stars, established himself as a top five‑on‑five skater, and excelled in scoring efficiency.

Bourque’s versatility—capable of playing both center and wing—makes him a strategic long‑term asset for Nashville. While the current AAV approximates market value, the contract’s length provides upside should his development continue. Analysts view Bourque as a prime breakout candidate for the upcoming season.

Anthony Mantha

New Jersey Devils secured forward Anthony Mantha on a two‑year, $4.75 million AAV contract, ending his brief free‑agent tenure. Mantha posted 33 goals and 64 points in 81 games for Pittsburgh, shooting at a 21.7 % rate—well above his career average of 13.8 %.

Despite recent overperformance, Mantha’s high shooting percentage suggests potential regression. Nevertheless, his size, speed, and goal‑scoring pedigree make him a valuable addition to the Devils’ top six, where he can help fill a scoring gap alongside Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt.

The Devils hope Mantha will continue to produce at a level that justifies his $4.75 million AAV, positioning the team for a competitive run in the 2026‑27 season.

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