NHL free agency: Top 25 players available

May 3, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk (22) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the PPG PAINTS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 23, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs center Brian Boyle (24) warms up prior to the game against the New Jersey Devils at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

17. Brian Boyle

Among bottom six forwards, Brian Boyle is one of the better short-term targets. He’s a center who analytics folk and eye test fans can both enjoy. Boyle has the size, strength and mean streak to satisfy old school hockey fans. At the same time, he’s generally a net positive in the puck possession column and positively influences his team when he’s on the ice.

Boyle is a candidate to get overpaid this offseason. But no matter what the price tag, he should bring value to whatever team signs him. Boyle proved last season he’s a very capable center. In a market deprived of centers, he’s one of the best available. Last season, Boyle had 25 points, including 13 goals, despite playing just over 13 minutes a game.

Best fits: Mike Babcock adores him, so a return to the Toronto Maple Leafs would make a lot of sense. Boyle is open to a return to the Tampa Bay Lightning and the feeling is mutual. If the Pittsburgh Penguins have trouble finding another third or fourth line center, he’s a potential fit. Boyle shouldn’t have trouble finding a new team, as multiple teams should be very interested in him. It should be interesting to see how much money he gets.

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