from Matt Larkin of The Hockey News,

Here’s a rundown of the top remaining free agents.

1. JAKE GARDINER, D, 28
2018-19 cap hit: $4,050,000

Some of his mental lapses are difficult to unsee, but his skating and offensive acumen more than make up for that. He’s a legit top-four blueliner, the best left-shot on the market, and could thrive in a less hockey-obsessed city. It’s possible last season’s back injury causes enough trepidation to keep teams from offering him seven years, but he’s easily the best blueliner available and should score a multi-year contract with an AAV of $6 million or more.

2. MICHEAL FERLAND, LW, 27
2018-19 cap hit: $1,750,000

Offers size, grit and goal-scoring in a throwback power-forward mold....

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