In 2026 NHL free agency, several proven veterans are still waiting for the right opportunity, even after delivering productive regular seasons. Teams continue their search for scoring help, but recent playoff performances carry just as much weight as regular-season numbers when it comes time for front offices to commit long-term.
This shift has left one experienced winger in an unexpected position, despite generating interest from multiple contenders. It also explains why teams such as the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens continue to monitor the situation rather than rush into a deal.
Anthony Mantha’s Playoff Performance Has Hurt His Free Agency Value With Oilers, Canadiens
Anthony Mantha appeared to be one of the safest bets to land a lucrative contract after putting together the finest offensive season of his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Instead, the veteran winger remains one of the biggest names still available, as executives across the league continue to weigh his regular-season production against a disappointing playoff showing.
Penguins insider Josh Yohe believes the postseason has become the biggest obstacle in Mantha’s negotiations.
Posting on X, Yohe wrote, “I have no doubt Anthony Mantha is still going to get paid plenty this summer. Had a great year. But I do wonder if his playoff showing (no goals, bad penalties, teammates literally suggesting that certain forwards weren’t good in front of Philly’s net) is costing him a bit.”
This evaluation highlights why Mantha’s market has cooled despite posting career-best numbers during the regular season. He finished with 33 goals and 64 points in 81 games while thriving in Pittsburgh’s top six, proving he could still produce at a high level when surrounded by skilled playmakers.
However, that momentum disappeared during the Penguins’ first-round loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he finished with 0 goals and only one assist in six games.
The lack of offensive production wasn’t the only concern.
Costly penalties and questions about his effectiveness around the crease drew criticism, creating fresh doubts about whether his regular-season success would translate to playoff hockey.
The changing market has connected Mantha to teams looking for affordable secondary offense. Both the Oilers and Canadiens have surfaced as potential destinations because each team could use another proven finisher without committing to an extended contract. His 6-foot-5 frame and ability to contribute on the power play continue to make him an intriguing option.
Health also remains part of every discussion. Although Mantha played 81 games last season, front offices have not overlooked the knee surgery that limited him to just 13 games during the 2024-25 campaign.
This injury history, combined with his uneven playoff performance, has encouraged teams to proceed carefully.
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The Penguins have already added Andrei Kuzmenko, signaling they are prepared to move forward. Still, if the market continues to stall and Mantha’s asking price comes down, a short-term reunion cannot be completely dismissed.
Until then, one difficult playoff series continues to overshadow one of the strongest regular seasons of his career.
UPDATE: Mantha signed a two-year, $4.75M AAV deal with the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday, July 15.
