NHL free agency 2026: The 9 best contracts signed so far

The 2026 NHL free agency period has been described as one of the worst in league history, with few true difference-makers available, prompting teams to rely heavily on the trade market instead. Despite the shallow pool of talent, analysts have identified nine contracts worth highlighting, though the best deals are characterized as 'reasonable' or 'fair value' rather than outright steals. Among the notable signings, Mavrik Bourque is expected to outperform his contract in his first year with the Nashville Predators.