Generally, when a player hits the free market as an unrestricted free agent in the NHL it’s to make a ton of money. New York Islanders captain John Tavares is the prime example.
After taking a team friendly deal with a $5.5 million cap hit for five years, John Tavares is going to explore the open market to get his fair share. Whether that be from the New York Islanders or not, Tavares is going to be paid handsomely.
That might not be the case for some players. For instance, Calvin de Haan probably won’t get the big payday he may have originally thought he’s was in line to receive when he signed his last deal.