The 2023 NHL free-agent market officially opens at noon ET on July 1. While that date remains months away, several clubs carrying hefty payrolls for 2023-24 should consider clearing room to pursue some of the notable talent potentially available next summer.
Stars such as the Boston Bruins' David Pastrnak, Chicago Blackhawks' Patrick Kane and the St. Louis Blues' Vladimir Tarasenko are eligible to become unrestricted free agents. They should draw considerable interest if they hit the open market next July.
Signing such players can be an expensive undertaking. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has hinted the cap might rise by $4 million if the players' share of escrow debt to the owners is repaid by season's end.