NHL Rumors: Top 3 Defensemen Expected to Hit the Open Market

Friendly reminder that free agency in the NHL begins later this year as July 13 should be circled. There's no shortage of talent ready to hit the open market and in this segment let's zone in on the best blueliners expected to hit the open market this upcoming offseason:

Kris Letang

Pittsburgh Penguins legend Kris Letang is a pending unrestricted free agent who has a loaded resume and a potential rival suitor in the Montreal Canadiens. It feels like first things first Letang would love to finish his career as a Penguin and if he's open to signing a team-friendly contract that's very likely how talks transpire. However, if there's any chance of departure, expect to see the Canadiens get pen to paper.

John Klingberg

At one point this season John Klingberg did not feel appreciated by the Dallas Stars and throughout all the chatter on and off the ice, the mobile defenseman has managed to have a strong season. In 61 games Klingberg has posted 40 points, entering free agency making $4.25 million annually. Expect to see the 6-foot-3 right-handed defenseman drive up his price to the $6.5-7 million mark, which could result in moving on from Texas. There will be a long list of suitors as mobile right-handed defenseman who can play in all situations are hard to find. 

Ben Chiarot/Mark Giordano

Four for the price of three. Here we have two defensemen who bring very similar qualities, Mark Giordano and Ben Chiarot however are in line for very different contracts. While Giordano is likely to sign a one or two-year deal to stay in Toronto with the Maple Leafs, likely for around $1 million, Chiarot should be in store for a long-term deal and look for one team to overpay to ensure they land the defensive gem. There was a serious market at the trade deadline and if the Florida Panthers let Chiarot hit the free-agent market on July 13, expect to see some hefty offers come his way.