Top-Performing Impending Free Agents Thus Far

A month deep the 2016-17 season,  several key 2017 unrestricted free agents have gotten off to a strong start in their contract years. With many players slated for free agency in a unique off-season, given the addition of the Las Vegas expansion franchise, it may be more important than ever for impending free agents to perform well. With another competitor in the mix, especially one that needs to build a team from scratch, prices will skyrocket for top-end talent. So far, the following players are in line for a hefty contract this June, if they’re not re-signed even earlier or (surprisingly for many) if they choose to retire:

D Brent Burns, San Jose Sharks – 5 goals/7 assists/12 points

C Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks – 2 goals/9 assists/11 points

RW Alexander Radulov, Montreal Canadiens – 3 goals/8 assists/11 points

D Mark Streit, Philadelphia Flyers – 3 goals/7 assists/10 points

D Kevin Shattenkirk, St. Louis Blues –  3 goals/7 assists/10 points

RW Radim Vrbata, Arizona Coyotes – 4 goals/5 assists/9 points

C Brandon Pirri, New York Rangers – 4 goals/5 assists/9 points

C Matt Cullen, Pittsburgh Penguins – 3 goals/6 assists/9 points

LW Thomas Vanek, Detroit Red Wings – 4 goals/4 assists/8 points

D Dennis Seidenberg, New York Islanders –  4 goals/4 assists/8 points

RW Patrick Eaves, Dallas Stars – 3 goals/5 assists/8 points

G Peter Budaj, Los Angeles Kings – 7 wins/1.86 GAA/.919 SV%

G Jonathan Bernier,  Anaheim Ducks – 1 win/2.16 GAA/.939 SV%

G Ben Bishop, Tampa Bay Lightning – 5 wins/2.91 GAA/.907 SV%

Disappointments: Martin Hanzal, Brian Elliott, Jarome Iginla, Patrick Sharp, Steve Mason, Patrick Marleau, Drew Stafford