When the hockey world talks about players without contracts in mid-August, the spotlight often lands on stars like Connor McDavid’s looming extension.
But there’s another storyline heating up — the “Big Four” restricted free agents who still need deals just to step on the ice this fall: Luke Hughes, Marco Rossi, Mason McTavish, and Connor Zary. Each negotiation comes with its own twist, and some are already causing anxiety for fans and front offices alike.
Luke Hughes – New Jersey Devils
GM Tom Fitzgerald has called Hughes his top offseason priority, yet there’s still no deal in place. With AFP Analytics projecting 6 years x $8.4M, New Jersey faces the delicate balance of locking up an elite blueliner without repeating what happened to brother Jack — whose deal now looks like a steal after his 100-point season. Hughes may aim for a shorter or mid-term contract to cash in bigger later.
Marco Rossi – Minnesota Wild
Projected at 7 years x $7.4M, Rossi’s deal is tricky. He’s been a trade rumor fixture and remains a skilled yet undersized center who slid down the lineup in key moments. The Wild seem more likely to offer a 2-year bridge at ~$6M AAV, giving both sides time to reassess.
Mason McTavish – Anaheim Ducks
Viewed as a future franchise cornerstone, McTavish’s projection is 6 years x $6.7M. His two-way game and Ryan O’Reilly-like style make him invaluable, but Ducks GM Pat Verbeek has a history of letting talks stretch into camp. This one could go down to the wire.
Connor Zary – Calgary Flames
Zary’s emerging offensive skill is clear, but so are the concerns over knee injuries. The Flames may be hesitant to commit long term until durability questions are answered. A shorter prove-it deal seems the most likely outcome.
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