Tuukka Rask
Speaking the name Tuukka Rask still makes Leafs fans shutter. That’s because the star goalie was originally drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was involved in the franchise’s worst trade of all time. The 34-year-old goaltender never played a game for Toronto and likely won’t return to do so this offseason.
Derek Stepan
Derek Stepan is a 31-year-old center coming off a $6.5 million AAV with the Ottawa Senators. He is nowhere close to the player he once was when he was playing for the New York Rangers. Stepan will find a team to join next season but it’s likely to be as a role player and nothing more.
Keith Yandle – signed
Keith Yandle is the third player on this list who was bought out of his NHL contract. He is an offensive defenseman and powerplay specialist who struggles in his own end. While it’s never ideal to have a player who is a liability on defense, especially when that’s their primary job, there is still value that Yandle can offer if put in the right spot as a bottom pairing. That’s likely why the Flyers gave him a one-year deal worth $900,000, which includes a no-trade clause.
Alexander Edler
Alexander Edler is another defenseman who plays on the left side. At age 35, he is coming off a contract with the Vancouver Canucks that had a $6 million AAV. Edler has only known playing for the Canucks in the NHL and like Getzlaf, it would look strange to see him with any other club.
David Backes
David Backes is a 37-year-old forward. He has had a wonderful career, most recently with the Ducks where they paid him a cap hit of $6 million. It is expected that Backes will not be returning to the NHL but instead hang up his skates and announce his retirement. If he does, he will retire with career earnings of nearly $60 million.