NHL Rumors: Top 3 Free-Agent Defensemen & Predictions

NHL training camps are opening in a couple of weeks and there's still a load of talent waiting for a new contract. The free-agent market has been a slow moving process this offseason as the hard salary cap has really shown it's teeth. Expect to see more contracts trickle in, as these three free-agent defensemen will be signed before camps open:

P.K Subban

Polarizing defenseman P.K Subban has yet to sign a contract for the 2022-23 season. There's been interest from several teams and it's a bit of a surprise to see no deal to this point. Subban isn't the offensive force he once was, however in the right situation can still be a productive piece for a playoff-bound team. 

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Subban has been linked to the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers this offseason. He'll look to bounce back from a 22-point season in 2021-22. 

Prediction: Subban signs with the Buffalo Sabres

Anton Stralman

Veteran defenseman Anton Stralman is waiting on his next deal and it's likely he'll have to settle for a PTO to attend an NHL training camp. Stralman has been around the block, with 930 NHL games under his belt. Last season he spent with the struggling Arizona Coyotes, recording 23 points in 74 games. The 36-year-old right-handed defenseman hasn't made any indications about retiring from the game. 

Prediction: Stralman signs PTO with the St Louis Blues

Zdeno Chara

Sorry Keith Yandle and Calvin de Haan, Zdeno Chara rounds out today's list. The 45-year-old contributed more than many expected last season with the New York Islanders and look for the towering presence to sign a PTO to take one more kick at the can. Chara recorded 14 points in 71 games, playing an impressive 18:43 of ice-time a night. He's best suited in a bottom-pair role and can contribute in a big way on the penalty kill. 

Prediction: Chara signs PTO with the Vancouver Canucks

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