Top 15 unrestricted free-agent forwards

Written prior to Steven Stamkos re-signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning

Christmas in July.

That's what NHL free agency can feel like, as teams look to make a splash on the open market.

Here's a look at 15 of the top unrestricted free-agent forwards who can sign with any of the league's 30 clubs come July 1.

Steven Stamkos

The unquestioned big fish in this year's UFA pool, Steven Stamkos is staying with the Tampa Bay Lightning, re-upping on an eight-year, $68-million contract. Sorry, Buffalo. And Detroit. And New York. And especially Toronto.

Milan Lucic

Many teams have spent the past several years looking for the next Milan Lucic. After one season with the Los Angeles Kings, the power forward is available for those looking for the real thing.

David Backes

The St. Louis Blues will be in need of a new captain next season, as David Backes likely priced himself out of their range with strong production in the team's run to the Western Conference finals.

Kyle Okposo

A seventh overall draft pick by the New York Islanders in 2006, Kyle Okposo has emerged as a high-end winger and is hitting free agency right in his prime. Good news for a GM not named Garth Snow.

Loui Eriksson

Failing a last-minute deal with the Bruins, the biggest piece to come back in the Tyler Seguin trade is set to cash in following his best season in Boston.

Andrew Ladd

The former Winnipeg Jets captain is looking for another chance at a Stanley Cup after the Chicago Blackhawks fell way short in this year's playoffs. He'll also be looking for a raise on his previous $4.4-million average annual valuation, meaning contending teams may not have the cap space to sign him. Catch-22.

Eric Staal

A brief and unsuccessful stint with the Rangers didn't do much to boost Eric Staal's value as a free agent. The longtime Carolina Hurricanes captain may have to settle for a shorter term and less money with a view to rediscovering his game.

Mikkel Boedker

The 2008 eighth overall draft pick has yet to discover the form of a consistent point producer at the NHL level, but the 26-year-old is entering his prime years, and - for better or worse - teams will be prepared to bank on a true breakout for Mikkel Boedker.

Troy Brouwer

A strong playoff performance with the St. Louis Blues (eight goals and five assists in 20 games) should help Troy Brouwer net the biggest contract of his career to date.

David Perron

David Perron played well for Anaheim following a trade from Pittsburgh, but his season was derailed by a shoulder injury. The 28-year-old has bounced between three teams over the past two seasons, but did record a career-high 28 goals and 57 points in 2013-14.

Frans Nielsen

The New York Islanders will look to lock up Frans Nielsen before he hits the open market, but the demand for this formidable two-way center would be big if he does indeed become available.

Jiri Hudler

Jiri Hudler has been good for 122 points in 150 games over the past two seasons, and will be a solid signing for whichever team jumps at the versatile Czech center.

Lee Stempniak

Lee Stempniak recorded 19 goals and 51 points with the Bruins and New Jersey Devils in 2016-17, perhaps earning himself some job security in the form of a new long-term deal. The 33-year-old winger has suited up for six teams over the past three seasons, so he'll likely sign a one-year deal and get traded prior to the deadline for draft picks once again.

Thomas Vanek

After the Minnesota Wild bought out the final season of his contract, Thomas Vanek is on the open market and once again looking for redemption. While he's not worth a $6.5-million cap hit at 32, there are still some goals left on his stick. He failed to hit the 20-goal mark for the first time in his 11-year career last season, but Vanek's 18 goals will likely get him a look as a potential top-six forward for a team seeking help up front.

Jimmy Vesey

The college standout's rights were acquired by the Sabres, but Jimmy Vesey remains intent on becoming a free agent with the ability to sign with any team come Aug. 15. The Maple Leafs and Bruins are believed to be the front-runners.