Seider, Raymond among top-5 RFA's still without a contract for 2024-25

Despite 2024-25 NHL training camps opening in just over a week, there's a number of very talented restricted free agents who currently don't have a contract for next season.

From big name goaltenders playing a much bigger role next year, to franchise defenseman, the list is full of very talented hockey players who apparently have very stern agents as negotiations continue. Here's the top-5 RFA's currently without a 24-25 contract:

Jeremy Swayman, Boston Bruins

The 25-year-old netminder is supposed to be the team's 1-A starter this season after splitting time with best buddy Linus Ullmark. Ullmark was dealt to the rival Ottawa Senators and Swayman sits without a deal. He made $3.47 million last season and is reportedly looking for a massive raise. Perhaps a 5x$8-million contract is coming soon?

Moritz Seider, Detroit Red Wings

Seider is coming off his entry-level deal and wants some long-term stability in Motown. He's a top-six pick, a Calder Trophy winner and he's going to anchor the Red Wings blueline for years to come. Look for Seider to come in over $8 million per season on a long-term extension, which is likely going to be announced shortly before camps open next week.

Lucas Raymond, Detroit Red Wings

GM Steve Yzerman has a lot on his plate this summer as Raymond also needs a new deal. He made $925,000 against the cap last season and led the Wings in scoring with 72 points in 82 games in 2023-24. Raymond wants to remain in Detroit long term. Like Seider, expect to see a long-term extension announced in the coming days.

Thomas Harley, Dallas Stars

One of the more underrated players in the league, Harley has flown under the radar in Texas, despite having a breakout season in 2023-24. He earned $863,333 last season and will be expecting a hefty raise after a 15-goal, 47-point season. The Stars reshaped their blueline slightly this summer, however look for Harley to be a staple among their top-two pairs, once the contract is finally announced.

Cole Perfetti, Winnipeg Jets

The Jets former first-rounder has heard is name all over trade speculation this summer after he recorded 19 goals and 38 points in 71 games. Perfetti has a huge opportunity in front of him in Winnipeg for major minutes in 2024-25, so it's going to be vital for his agent to get the contract done very soon so he can attend training camp from the jump and not get a step behind.

Photo credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images