Top 5 underrated NHL free agency signings so far in 2024 ft. Dmitry Kulikov

This year's NHL free agency has produced several high-profile deals that have shifted the landscape of the league. With teams like the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers looking to return to Stanley Cup contention, deals have continued to fly around the league. From NHL free agency acquisitions to blockbuster trades, the offseason action has produced fireworks.

While some teams have made head-scratching deals, others have found diamonds in the rough and needles in haystacks. Given that we still have plenty of time before training camps begin and pucks drop to start the season, things can change.

With that in mind, let's take a look at the top five underrated NHL free agency signings so far this summer.

Top five underrated NHL free agency signings so far

#5: Kiefer Sherwood

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Vancouver Canucks at Nashville Predators

This offseason, the Vancouver Canucks signed Kiefer Sherwood to a two-year deal worth $3 million. The deal came after a 68-game season with the Nashville Predators where Sherwood logged 27 points.

While his play left a bit to be desired, Sherwood had a strong start to the season with the Nashville Predators last year, logging 13 points in 32 games. He joined the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL after that and logged 38 points in 42 games in the regular season, then 11 points in 14 playoff games.

#4: Anthony Duclair

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Florida Panthers at Tampa Bay Lightning

Anthony Duclair split time between the San Jose Sharks and the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2023-24 before signing a four-year, $14 million deal with the New York Islanders.

Given his stats over the past few years — and his play in the 2022-23 postseason with the Florida Panthers where he logged 11 points in 20 games — that contract value could wind up looking like a steal for the Islanders as the 28-year-old finds his rhythm in New York.

#3: Matt Duchene

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Edmonton Oilers at Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars kicked off the NHL free agency period by signing Matt Duchene to a one-year deal worth $3 million to help bolster their roster as the team looks to make a Stanley Cup run. Duchene will provide veteran experience which could be instrumental for the Stars.

In addition, he has also shown his durability over the past three years, playing over 70 games per season — and 80 games last season, where he logged 65 points. Given his experience and the value of his contract, this was a great signing for Dallas.

#2: Dmitry Kulikov

NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers

After winning the Stanley Cup, the Florida Panthers began this summer's NHL free agency by signing Dmitry Kulikov to a four-year deal worth $4.6 million. The deal is tremendous for the Panthers given that it carries an average annual value of just $1.15 million.

Despite being 33 years old, Kulikov has shown that he still has plenty of hockey left to play. His production may not be what it once was, but considering how much experience he brings to the team, the deal will pay dividends in the years to come as the Panthers navigate the salary cap.

#1: Zach Hyman

NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Florida Panthers at Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers signed Zach Hyman to a four-year extension worth $11.3 million, which carries an AAV of $5.5 million per year to remain in Edmonton. The move appears to be one of the best of this summer's NHL free agency given Hyman's production.

The winger finished last season with 77 points in 80 regular-season games before keeping things rolling in the Stanley Cup Playoffs with 22 points in 25 games. Similarly, the season before, Hyman finished with 83 points in 79 games and logged 11 points in 12 postseason games.