NHL Rumors: Top 3 Free-Agent Defenseman Still Available

The NHL's free agency period is a month old and there's still plenty of talent available for work. While the cream of the crop may have signed elsewhere. many veteran defensemen are sitting without a contract for next season. That's expected to change over the course of the next few weeks, as training camps creep closer to opening. Here's the top three available free-agent defensemen:

Anton Stralman

Of all the defensemen left on the open market, nobody had more points than Anton Stralman. The veteran blueliner recorded 23 points in 74 games for the struggling Arizona Coyotes last season. Even at 35-years-old, now 36, Stralman played over 21 minutes a night in the desert. With 113 games of Stanley Cup Playoff experience, expect to see the Swedish defenseman sign a deal before training camp opens. There's a number of teams who could use another right-handed d-man so unless Stralman decides to retire, which seems unlikely at this point, expect to see him in an NHL jersey very soon.

PK Subban

Perhaps there's no 'bigger' name available on the free agent market, but some are starting to question why PK Subban has yet to sign a new contract. It seems like the New Jersey Devils are going in a different direction given they've drafted and acquired right-handed defensemen this summer. 

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Subban is far removed from his Norris trophy days, however if in the right situation, could still be a reliable asset. There's been rumors about the Edmonton Oilers, and two other teams to watch include the Florida Panthers and Detroit Red Wings. Subban recorded 22 points in 77 games last season in New Jersey.

Keith Yandle

The NHL iron man still wants to continue to play and contribute to a team's power play. Yandle spent last season as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers, recording 19 points in 77 games. He's a team first guy who is a great personality in the dressing room and he's likely going to sign a professional tryout agreement for next season. Where? To this point, it's been quiet. Yandle can get it done offensively, however is not very strong on the defensive side of the puck. Expect a team who is looking to spark their offense take a flyer on the veteran blueliner.

Photo credit:  Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports