Articles / NHL Free Agency Winners and Losers: Panthers on top yet again

NHL Free Agency Winners and Losers: Panthers on top yet again

S
Sportsnet
Jul 2, 2025 11:47 AM

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The NHL free agency period has seen the Florida Panthers emerge as significant winners, putting together an impressive roster as they continue to build on their recent successes. With key signings, the Panthers have demonstrated their commitment to not only maintaining their high-performance levels but also to potentially elevating their game further. Their strategic moves in the offseason have positioned them as serious contenders for the upcoming season.

Another notable player in this free agency frenzy is Ryan O'Reilly, who secured a lucrative deal with the Nashville Predators. His experience and leadership are expected to bolster the Predators' chances in a highly competitive Central Division. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs made headlines with their aggressive approach, acquiring several new faces to enhance their playoff prospects.

On the other hand, the Montreal Canadiens and Arizona Coyotes find themselves labeled as losers in this free agency cycle. The Canadiens failed to make significant moves to strengthen their lineup, leaving fans disappointed with a lack of direction. The Coyotes, too, are struggling to attract top talent, which has stunted their growth as a franchise. Both teams will need to rethink their strategies to remain competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL.

As teams refine their rosters and prepare for the challenges ahead, the aftermath of free agency promises to shape the league’s dynamics in the 2023-2024 season. Fans are eager to see how these changes will play out on the ice and which teams will rise to the occasion.

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