NHL offseason: The top 10 names who will be free agents

As the 2023 NHL offseason approaches, teams around the league are preparing to make moves to improve their rosters for the upcoming season. One way to do that is by signing free agents. This year's class is full of talented players who could make a big impact on their new teams.

Here are the top 10 NHL free agents entering the 2023 offseason:

#1 Vladimir Tarasenko

New York Rangers v Philadelphia Flyers

It will be interesting to see what the Rangers do with Tarasenko’s contract. Vladimir Tarasenko is a top free agent in 2023 due to his elite scoring ability, with five seasons of 30 or more goals, and his reputation as a clutch player in big moments.

#2 Alex Debrincat

Ottawa Senators v Arizona Coyotes

Alex DeBrincat is a top free agent in 2023 because of his impressive offensive output, with three consecutive 40-goal seasons. Additionally, his versatility to play both wing positions makes him an attractive target for NHL teams looking to boost their scoring depth.

#3 Matt Dumba

Minnesota Wild v Washington Capitals

Matt Dumba is the top NHL defenseman in the prime of his career set for a big payday. He has elite offensive skills from the blue line, including a 50-point season, and his physical play, along with a willingness to engage in fights and deliver big hits, making him a valuable two-way defenseman.

#4 Ryan O’Reilly

Montreal Canadiens v Toronto Maple Leafs

If the Maple Leafs don’t re-sign him, Ryan O'Reilly will be a top free agent in 2023 due to his strong two-way play. He has a reputation as one of the best defensive forwards in the NHL in addition to his leadership qualities, having served as captain for the St. Louis Blues.

#5 Patrick Kane

Vegas Golden Knights v Chicago Blackhawks

Despite his age, Patrick Kane is a top free agent for the first time due to his elite offensive skills. He has over 1,000 career points, multiple seasons of 40 or more goals, and a reputation as a clutch player in big moments in the NHL.

#6 Jonathan Drouin

Montreal Canadiens v Anaheim Ducks

Jonathan Drouin is an interesting name due to his skill and versatility as a forward. He has the ability to play both wing position and center, and has potential for offensive production, having shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career.

#7 Tyler Bertuzzi

Boston Bruins v Detroit Red Wings

Tyler Bertuzzi is a top free agent in 2023 due to his physical style of play, with a willingness to go to the net and engage in board battles, and his possible offense upside. At his age, he could get a lengthy term and plenty of money

#8 Sean Monahan

Montreal Canadiens v Edmonton Oilers

Sean Monahan is a top free agent in 2023 due to his offensive skills as a center, with four seasons of 20 or more goals and a career high of 31. He has experience as a leader, having served as an alternate captain for the Calgary Flames before his time in Montreal.

#9 Jonathan Toews

Chicago Blackhawks v Philadelphia Flyers

It’s unlikely he’ll even hit the market, but Jonathan Toews is a top free agent in 2023 due to his strong two-way play. He has a reputation as one of the best defensive forwards in the league and has leadership qualities, having served as captain for the Chicago Blackhawks for over a decade.

#10 James Van Riemsdyk

Detroit Red Wings v Philadelphia Flyers

James Van Riemsdyk is a top free agent in 2023 due to his size and scoring ability, with multiple seasons of 20 or more goals and a career-high of 36. His ability to play both wing positions makes him a versatile addition to any team's forward group.