NHL free agency: 5 best players still available

1. P.K. Subban

With Kessel and Stastny off the board, that leaves just one truly ‘big-name’ player remaining in NHL free agency, and that is someone who was once one of the best defenseman in the entire league; P.K. Subban.

Subban’s career has suffered a downward trajectory over the past few years, particularly since being traded to the New Jersey Devils, but there’s reason to believe he can still be a positive contributor for a contending team on the back end.

The 33-year-old won the Norris Trophy in 2013 and was an offensive weapon for the majority of his career, but has seen his numbers fall with the Devils. However, given the right environment, he could still offer plenty in the NHL.

He has averaged over 20 minutes for almost his entire NHL career, bar this past season, and could be a valuable addition to a team’s bottom pairing, especially if he is willing to sign a deal close to the league minimum with a contender.

In addition, Subban would be an excellent locker room influence and won the King Clancy Trophy this past season for his leadership and humanitarian contributions, which he has been known for throughout his long career.

Having Subban would be a boost for many teams and it is a surprise that he has not yet found a new team, with some rumors suggesting a possible reunion with the Montreal Canadiens, and it can’t be much longer before he finds a new home and a new opportunity to prove to the league how much he still has left in the tank.