NHL Free Agents: How Much Zach Parise & Other Soon-to-Be Free Agents Should Make

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Now that teams have reported to training camp, the NHL offseason is officially over. That only means one thing: It's time to start thinking about the 2012 offseason; it's never too early.

Unlike this crops group of free agents, next's year's is projected to be a lot deeper with the likes of Zach Parise and Alexander Semin likely rounding out the list.

The question becomes, "How much will these players be getting when teams scramble to obtain their services?"

Although it's difficult to calculate not knowing how each player will perform and not knowing the salary cap, here are some projected figures for upcoming contracts of potential unrestricted free agents.

Zach Parise

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After being injured for most of last season, a lot will be riding on how Zach Parise performs during 2011 and 2012.

If he returns to form and puts up 80-90 points, he would become next summer's Brad Richards. Parise would likely even receive a contract larger than Richards given that he is four years younger.

Projected Contract: Eight-years, $66 million

Alex Semin

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Alexander Semin, 27, is the same age as Parise, but given that he play the left wing, his contract will probably be significantly less than Parise's.

Some GMs may also wonder how Semin would perform on a less-talented roster. Semin has had some durability issues as well, only playing in 70 games once in the last four seasons.

Projected Contract: Five-years, $32 million

Dustin Penner

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Dustin Penner, 28, has only hit the 60-point mark once in his career. Even so he has scored at least 20 goals in every full NHL season except one.

As is the case with any player, a lot will depend on what Penner does this season, especially after coming off a down year.

Projected Contract: Five-years, $27 million

Matt Carle

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If this past offseason is any precursor to the 2012 offseason, then defenseman should garner a lot of money on the open market.

Over the last two seasons, Matt Carle has developed into a well-rounded defenseman with the Philadelphia Flyers. At 26, Carle also has some upside remaining.

Projected Contract: Six-years, $38 million

R.J. Umberger

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R.J. Umberger has quietly put together a solid career. Since joining the Columbus Blue Jackets, he has had three straight 20-goal seasons and has improved on his point total each year.

Look for him to get a similar contract as Penner.

Projected Contract: Four-years, $22 million

Ales Hemsky

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Ales Hemsky has had some injury issues over the last few years, so his health during the upcoming season will play a large role in how much he makes. 

If he can get close to a 70-point total, which he is very capable of, he could command a hefty salary.

Projected Contract: Five-years, $32 million

Ryan Suter

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Ryan Suter is a very talented defenseman. Coming into the season he is only 26, so if he can continue playing the way he has, he should expect a big pay day, possibly the biggest of any unrestricted free agent defenseman.

Projected Contract: Seven years, $53 million

Pekka Rinne

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Here is another big name Nashville Predator. The 2012 looks like it may be a rough on for the "Smashville" faithful.

Pekka Rinne is coming off of Vezina finalist season and appears to be ready to once again compete for the league's top goalie award.

There are always teams looking for a goaltender of his caliber, so expect a big contract to come his way.

Projected Contract: Six-years, $46 million

Dennis Wideman

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Another blue-liner who will be looking to cash in is Dennis Wideman. He has topped out at 50 points, but is usually good for 30-40.

He may get an annual salary similar to Carle's.

Projected Contract: Five-years, $30 million  

Barret Jackman

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Barret Jackman is a typical gritty, stay-at-home defenseman. Although he doesn't put up the numbers as other potential free agent defenseman, he is still a valuable asset. 

Look for him to make less than some of the other blue-liners, but still obtain a good salary.

Projected Salary: Four-years, $14 million