NHL free agency 2025: Grades, fits for all the big signings - ESPN

The 2025 NHL offseason has already been a roller coaster with several key players being traded, 224 prospects finding new homes via the draft, and a slew of re-signings.

As the free agent deals continue to roll in, ESPN NHL reporters Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton and Greg Wyshynski will be grading the big-name signings, including the player's fit with his new team, terms of the deal and more.

We'll continue to assess the most notable moves through the offseason, so check back for fresh grades as deals are consummated; the newest grades will be listed first. Contract terms are per year.

Draft recap: All 224 picks
Grades for all 32 teams
Winners and losers

The terms: One year, $3 million AAV

Grade: B

Where does he fit?

Any team that's serious about their postseason chances know they are going to need proven top-six scorers.

Kane is exactly that.

He's at the stage in his career in which he's not expected to drive play like he was when he was a Hart Trophy winner and perennial candidate. Instead, he's fashioned himself into being a second-line winger who makes a team stronger.

He was fourth on the Wings with 21 goals last season, while his 29 power-play points were tied for the second most on the roster. Throw in the fact that he was third among forwards in average ice time, and it's clear why the Red Wings were able to reach common ground on a new deal.

If they hadn't, there's a strong chance someone else likely would have quickly on Tuesday, knowing that players who can score like Kane are a hot commodity.

Another reason why bringing him back was imperative goes back to how they struggled for goals at times last season. They finished 21st in goals per game, while they were in the bottom five in scoring chances per 60