A Look at Up-and-Coming Free Agents

I guess it's never too early to talk about the next free agent class, even if we're in the middle of November and there's plenty of hockey left for these guys to play for their respective teams. But while that might be happening, you may recall that Henrik and Daniel Sedin were given contracts by the Vancouver Canucks, effectively taking them out of the free agent market. So while they enjoy the life in Vancouver for years to come, let's take a look at some other upcoming free agents who might or might not resign with their respective teams.

1. Goalie Henrik Lundqvist (New York Rangers)
If Lundqvist tested the market, there would be a war over who would have them. But at the same time, if Lundqvist were to leave, the Rangers would be in a swamp. He's by far their most effective player and their most important one as well. I can't imagine a scenario where the Rangers wouldn't offer him a contract to stay long-term. He's as important to this franchise as Sidney Crosby is to the Penguins. So with that said, it's most likely he'll stay with the Rangers on a long-term deal.

2. Winger Thomas Vanek (New York Islanders)
The Islanders got him in attempt to boost their offense, so it's no surprise they'll try to re-sign him. But Vanek might want to test the market. He has a year-round house in Minnesota and former teammate Jason Pominville is playing with the Wild. There's a chance of a reunion if Vanek decides to leave the Islanders and test the market. If he does, the Wild probably will be the first to pick him up. They seem to want all the former Sabres.

3. Defenseman Dion Phaneuf (Toronto Maple Leafs)
He's one of those guys who's been both loved and hated by Maple Leafs fans. So far, he's had a good season but he hasn't been a star for them as of late. However, his defensive production is one of the reasons why the Maple Leafs have been winning games. He's a plus-10 with seven points in 15 games. That's also a big plus. So look for Phaneuf to stay with the Maple Leafs for the coming future.

4. Goalie Ryan Miller (Buffalo Sabres)
He's not going to stay in Buffalo, no matter what. They're in a rebuild and he doesn't want to be a part of it. He's played well and some team will take a chance on him, like Edmonton or Florida, so look for Miller to be traded come this trade deadline and test the market this coming summer.

5. Winger Ryan Callahan (New York Rangers)
If they're going to re-sign Henrik Lundqvist, the Rangers will also have to make a deal with Callahan. They seem to come as a package, even though they're not. He offers goal and leadership, two things essential to this team right now. He is the captain and it doesn't seem like he would leave before they make a strong run to the Stanley Cup. Plus, he seems like a Ranger for life.

6. Left winger Mike Cammalleri (Calgary Flames)
This is my last essential free agent. Injuries have been a big problem to Cammalleri's production in recent years. He has, however, scored 28 goals in the last 79 games he has played. The Flames are still rebuilding and I don't think Cammalleri is a part of that plan. He could be a fit for a team looking for some offense. My guess is he'll either be traded or test the market over the summer.

Those are your up-and-coming free agents. There are more, like Marian Gaborik and other players like that, but these are the biggest names in the summer. Enjoy your Sunday hockey, puck heads!