3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations For James van Riemsdyk

The NHL's free-agent market has thinned out considerably, however, almost a month into free agency, there's several veteran forwards looking for new contracts. Winger James van Riemsdyk tops the list of experienced talent, as the big-frame net-front presence is still without a contract for next season, and is looking to play a couple more years.

van Riemsdyk, 37, spent last season with the Detroit Red Wings, appearing in 72 games, scoring 15 goals and 31 points. van Riemsdyk was used in a middle-six role and power-play specialist, and used his big body and soft hands to clean up the garbage around the front of the net.

JVR isn't the fastest skater, but the thing is, he's never relied on his skating ability to be a difference maker, which is one of the reasons he's still effective at his age. JVR has been linked to a few teams throughout the offseason, including the Toronto Maple Leafs. There's been some folks online digging up some posts, and connecting the dots for the Leafs and a JVR reunion. The Leafs have to move some salary around and at this point, with Gavin McKenna coming in and middle-six wing positions kind of jammed up, it seems like a bit of a longshot.

The New Jersey Devils had interest in JVR, and may perhaps still do. They've signed Anthony Mantha, but if JVR would consider a PTO, the hometown Devils will certainly come calling. While the Leafs and Devils seem like long shots, three teams linked to signing JVR recently include the Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Columbus Blue Jackets. He knows the Flyers organization very well, spending parts of five seasons in Philly, and the Blackhawks are searching for a veteran winger, but have also been linked to Patrick Kane. Meanwhile, JVR spent the 2024-25 season with the Blue Jackets, recording 36 points in 71 games. That's the only downfall at his age, JVR hasn't played more than 72 games the past 4 seasons.

For now, JVR remains one of the most experienced free agents left on the open market, and because GM's know exactly what they're getting out of the veteran winger, it's likely teams hold off until closer to training camp before making a concrete offer.