NHL Free Agent News: Top 14 Players Still Unsigned

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Just about everyone around the National Hockey League is excited to hear that it is almost the start of training camp.

However, one group that may be feeling the opposite are the remaining unsigned free agents. As the new NHL season nears, they are getting anxious to find work.

On the flip side, NHL teams still have an opportunity to augment their roster if they find they still have a hole to fill or if a positions opens up due to injury.

Here is the list of the top unsigned free agents that are still out there. 

J.P. Dumont, F

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For many years, although not the flashiest player, J.P. Dumont has been a product of consistency. 

However, J.P. Dumont's best years may be behind him. He had a disappointing year last season as he only had 19 points in 70 games. Afterwards, his contract was bought out by the Nashville Predators. 

A change of scenery could resurrect Dumont's career. He just needs someone to give him that chance. 

Bryan McCabe, D

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Bryan McCabe has gone from one of the most sought after defenseman at the trade deadline to still looking for work as September nears.

McCabe's offensive skills have diminished but he still possesses a big shot and can help out a power play. 

Even last season, McCabe had decent numbers for a defenseman with 28 points in 67 games.

Eventually, someone will come calling for McCabe's services. 

Cory Stillman, F

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At the end of last season, Cory Stillman showed that he can still produce in the right situation. 

After being traded back to the Carolina Hurricanes, he posted 16 of his 39 points in the last 21 games of the season.

Stillman would be a good fit for a contender looking to add some depth to the forward position.

Nick Boynton, D

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This stay-at-home defenseman has never been a big point producer. However, it is still noticeable that his play has dropped off in recent years.

Nick Boynton definitely isn't going to help out a team with major defensive holes, but he could add some veteran leadership to a defensive corps looking for a third pairing.

Ray Emery, G

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Ray Emery had a strong showing with the Anaheim Ducks after recovering from hip surgery. He went 7-2 with a 2.28 GAA.

He is going to camp with the Chicago Blackhawks but another team could still sign him down the road. For Emery, a backup role will likely be his best scenario.

Sergei Samsonov, F

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Sergei Samsonov, like a lot of other players on this list, is far from what he used to be. However, he has shown he can still be a productive player.

Last year, Samsonov amassed 40 points in 78 games with a supbar Florida Panthers team.

He could be a nice addition to a team's second power play unit.

Chris Campoli, D

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Chris Campoli is the latest causality of the NHL's current salary arbitration system. The Chicago Blackhawks walked away from his awarded contract so now he must scramble to find a team. 

Campoli could be a nice addition for a lot teams and, depending on who signs him, he could crack the second defensive pairing. At 27, he still has some upside. 

John Madden, F

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John Madden has been the poster child for defensive forwards. He is a leader who plays well on both ends of the ice. 

He'd be a great locker room addition for any NHL team. However, at 38, how much does he have left? Could coaching be in his future?

Anton Stralman, D

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At 25, Anton Stralman is one of the younger capable players still available.

Teams may be a bit cautious of signing Stralman because he battled through injury problems last season. However, he could be a risk that could pay big dividends down the road.,

At the very least, Stralman should be offered a two-way contract and have a chance to once again prove himself.

Pascal LeClaire. G

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After being dubbed the goaltender of the future in Columbus, Pascal LeClaire has never quite lived up to expectations. 

Last season, LeClaire went 4-7-1 and posted a 2.83 GAA with the Ottawa senators while battling injuries. If he can stay healthy, he can be a serviceable backup.

Kyle Wellwood, F

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During his day with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Kyle Wellwood looked like he was on his way to a promising career.Unfortunately, he has never quite reached his potential.

After playing in the KHL, the San Jose Sharks signed him midway through the season and he became a good third line player. Wellwood might have to return to Russia until an NHL team needs his services.

Mike Grier, F

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Mike Grier is another solid two-way player looking for a new home. Grier can help out in a variety of areas and has a good locker room presence.

Teams may be wondering how much Grier has left in the tank at 36. If he has anything to give, teams will know what they are getting in the veteran winger. 

Jarkko Ruutu, F

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For teams looking to add a mean streak to their lineup, Jarkko Ruutu is just the guy. Not only will he protect star players and battle anyone, he can also chip in a bit offensively when the moment presents itself. 

It'll be hard for a player like Ruutu to find work in the NHL this late into the offseason. He may have to look for options somewhere else. 

Fernando Pisani, F

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Fernando Pisani is a solid hockey player. The problem is, he hasn't managed to keep himself in the lineup. Last season, Pisani played 60 games which is the most since the 2005-2006 season. It's not as much as he'd like to play, but it's a step in the right direction.

Teams with a lot of depth should look at Pisani. If he can stay healthy, he can be an asset. If not, then nothing much will be lost.