The 2024 NHL free-agent class had some big names, but many lesser-known players also found new teams.
Kiefer Sherwood signed a two-year, $3M contract with the Vancouver Canucks. After six seasons in the NHL, he showed his worth with the Predators last year. Known for his speed and toughness, Sherwood ranked third on his team with 234 hits and scored 10 goals along with 27 points. At $1.5M per season, he’s a bargain.
Jack Roslovic joined the Carolina Hurricanes on a one-year deal worth $2.8 million. He’s a speedy center who can score 20 goals and play multiple roles, including penalty killing. He’ll help fill the gap left by departing players like Jake Guentzel and Teuvo Teravainen .
Nate Schmidt moved to the Florida Panthers for just $800K for one year. This low-risk move could pay off big time as Schmidt is a mobile defenseman who can stabilize their third pairing.
Under-the-Radar Signings:
Erik Brannstrom was picked up by the Colorado Avalanche for one year at $900K. Once a top-15 pick by Vegas in 2017, Brannstrom struggled to make an impact with Ottawa but has potential at only 24 years old. Fans might think this is another smart reclamation project by Colorado.
Jeff Skinner signed with the Edmonton Oilers on a one-year deal worth $3M. Despite being an established scorer with five 30-goal seasons and even one 40-goal season, Skinner’s signing flew under the radar. Adding him to an already powerful lineup featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl makes Edmonton even harder to beat next season.
Sometimes these smaller signings turn out to be game-changers later on ! What do you think about these moves?
