Many of the NHL's top unrestricted free agents were signed within hours of this year's free-agent market opening at noon ET on Wednesday. With the salary cap remaining at $81.5 million for the 2021-22 campaign, teams with limited salary-cap space and roster needs to be addressed will have to seek more cost-effective options.
For the frugal general manager seeking affordable talent, several worthwhile players remain available. Teams seeking an experienced scorer could consider former Montreal Canadiens winger Tomas Tatar. Those in the market for blue-line depth could pursue former New Jersey Devils defenseman Ryan Murray.