5 Big-Name Players Who Could Hit Free Agency Next Summer

As the 2025 NHL free agency approaches, five big-name players could potentially find themselves exploring new opportunities. 

Adam Gretz of Bleacher Report identifies these players as potential "flight risks", depending on how their current teams perform in the upcoming season.

1. Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers): One of the league's premier offensive talents, Draisaitl could consider leaving Edmonton if the Oilers fail to make a deep playoff run. While many expect him to re-sign, the Oilers' inconsistent track record might push Draisaitl to explore other options where he can better compete for a Stanley Cup.

   Posting a Leon Draisaitl goal until he signs his extension.
   
   I'm starting to think we'll be posting these for a little while. Anyways here's when Draisaitl brought out the dangles against the Senators. - Woz
   
   Video Credit: @Sportsnet pic.twitter.com/a0fsIWdFOt

   — Oilersnation.com, Oily Since ‘07 (@OilersNation) August 14, 2024

2. Mitch Marner (Toronto Maple Leafs): Marner's future with the Leafs is uncertain, especially if Toronto once again struggles in the playoffs. With Auston Matthews and William Nylander likely staying, Marner could be the odd man out if the team decides to retool its core. His departure would mark a significant shift for a team that has long relied on his playmaking abilities.

   every time somebody tweets about trading mitch marner, twitter should throw up a little “are you sure you want to tweet that?” notification which just plays this goal on repeat pic.twitter.com/qpimdCdJep

   — also katie (@marnylandersen) January 16, 2022

3. Carter Verhaeghe (Florida Panthers): Verhaeghe has been integral to the Panthers' recent successes, including their Stanley Cup victory. However, with looming salary cap challenges, Florida might not be able to meet his contract demands. Verhaeghe could test the market for a lucrative deal, especially given his recent performance.

   THE FIRST GOAL OF THE STANLEY CUP FINAL GOES TO CARTER VERHAEGHE🚨 pic.twitter.com/iLSB3eK8Jt

   — Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) June 9, 2024

4. Brock Boeser (Vancouver Canucks): After a career-high 40-goal season, Boeser's future with the Canucks is in question. If he can't sustain that level of production, Vancouver might consider moving on, making him a potential free agent target for teams seeking scoring depth.

   7 goals, 5 assists, 12 points.
   
   Brock Boeser followed up his 40 goal regular season with a very strong post-season! #Canucks pic.twitter.com/d2p2lJD1wv

   — Hughes is the GOAT (@Hughes4Norris) July 3, 2024

5. Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets): Ehlers has been a consistent performer for the Jets, but if Winnipeg doesn't address their roster flaws, he could seek a fresh start elsewhere. His speed and offensive prowess would make him a coveted asset in free agency.

   Nikolaj Ehlers are you serious??? 🤯
   
   This unbelievable goal gives the #NHLJets their 30th win of the season. WOW.🔥pic.twitter.com/bZcUIUEMbd

   — Connor Hrabchak (@ConnorHrabchak1) January 20, 2024

These five players could become some of the most sought-after free agents in 2025, with their decisions likely influenced by their teams' performances this season and their own career-driven decisions.

Photo Credit:  Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports