The National Hockey League is already turning its gaze toward the 2027 unrestricted free‑agent class, a group that promises to reshape several franchises and set new financial benchmarks.
The 2027 UFA Landscape
Among the names that will flood the market, eight players have already emerged as the most talked‑about, each carrying a distinct blend of performance, age and projected contract value.
The Dallas Stars kicked off the conversation by locking in forward Jason Robertson to a one‑year, $12‑million agreement, a move that not only secures his services through 2027 but also positions him as a prime target for suitors when his current deal expires.
Robertson, who has steadily increased his offensive output over the past three seasons, is expected to command a multi‑year, eight‑figure contract that could rival the deals signed by the league’s top scorers.
Goal‑minders will also be a focal point, with net‑minders like Jordan Binnington, who revitalized his career after a strong stint with the Vegas Golden Knights, poised to benefit from a market that values proven playoff experience.
Veteran Forwards and Goaltenders
Veteran leaders such as Sidney Crosby, now in the twilight of his career, are expected to finish their tenures with the Pittsburgh Penguins, while Alex DeBrincat, fresh off a 41‑goal campaign at age 28, is projected to attract a hefty extension.
Carter Hart’s resurgence with Vegas has restored confidence in his ability to handle a starting role, making him another name that could see a significant raise in the upcoming negotiations.
On the blue‑line, both Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar are slated to reset the financial bar for defensemen, their next contracts likely to set new standards for compensation at their position.
Nikita Kucherov, the reigning Hart Trophy winner, continues to be regarded as a top‑10 talent, and his upcoming contract will be closely watched as a barometer for elite wingers.
Meanwhile, journeyman Scott Wedgewood is working on a modest one‑year, $2.5‑million deal for the 2026‑27 season, illustrating the wide variance in financial expectations across the class.