Three pending UFA NHL centers after Charlie Coyle re-signs with Blue Jackets

Charlie Coyle has committed his future to the Columbus Blue Jackets, signing a six-year, $36 million extension with a $6 million AAV that runs through the 2031-32 season.[1] At 34 years old, Coyle posted 20 goals and 58 points in 82 games during his first full season with Columbus after arriving via trade from Colorado in 2025.[2] This deal removes one of the more reliable centers from the 2026 unrestricted free agent market, leaving teams hunting for middle-six stability with fewer proven options.

Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell praised Coyle’s durability and leadership, noting he played more regular-season games than anyone over the last five years.[1] Coyle himself expressed excitement about the group’s potential, saying, “I’ve seen our potential and I’m excited for it… I know it’s there.”[1] With this move, Columbus signals stability down the middle amid ongoing rebuild efforts.

Charlie Coyle’s extension sets the tone

Coyle’s performance in 2025-26 solidified his value, ranking fourth in Blue Jackets scoring with consistent two-way play.[3] Acquired to bolster the right-shot center position, he averaged reliable minutes and provided veteran presence on a young roster.

The contract includes protections like a full no-movement clause in the first four years, reflecting mutual trust.[4] Waddell highlighted Coyle’s playoff pedigree from his Boston days, where he contributed significantly in past runs.

Coyle’s extension underscores a shifting UFA landscape, where teams prioritize retention over splashy acquisitions. For Columbus, it pairs nicely with ongoing talks for Boone Jenner.

Coyle’s 2025-26 stats with Columbus:

• Games played: 82
• Goals: 20
• Assists: 38
• Points: 58
• Plus/minus: +3[2]

Looking ahead, Coyle could be 40 at contract’s end, but his conditioning suggests multi-year viability.

Evgeni Malkin remains a Penguins cornerstone?

Evgeni Malkin, turning 40 in July, headlines the remaining UFA centers after delivering 19 goals and 61 points in just 56 games for Pittsburgh.[5] Despite injuries limiting his play, his per-game pace projected to near 90 points over a full season, showcasing elite skill.

Malkin’s career is legendary: three Stanley Cups, a Hart Trophy, Art Ross, and multiple scoring titles since being drafted second overall in 2004. Penguins fans have watched him evolve into one of the NHL’s all-time greats alongside Sidney Crosby.

In 2025-26, he logged 17:36 average ice time with a +13 rating, thriving on the power play.[5] His vision and shot remain weapons, even as father time looms.

Pittsburgh faces cap constraints, sparking speculation on his future. Will Evgeni Malkin return to the Penguins? Our recent analysis weighs the options, while three potential destinations highlight contenders eyeing a veteran boost.

Malkin career highlights:

• Stanley Cups: 3 (2009, 2016, 2017)
• Hart Trophy: 2012
• Art Ross Trophies: 2
• 2025-26 stats: 19G, 42A, 61P in 56GP[5]

A re-signing seems likely, but short-term deals could open doors elsewhere.

Boone Jenner eyes extension in Columbus

Boone Jenner, 32, logged 13 goals and 38 points in 67 games for the Blue Jackets, averaging 16:05 of ice time despite nagging injuries.[6] The longtime captain hasn’t played a full 82 games since 2019-20, but his leadership endures.

Drafted 37th overall in 2011, Jenner has been Columbus’s heart, scoring over 200 career goals and wearing the “C” since 2021. His gritty style fits the club’s identity.

Recent seasons show steady middle-six production, with a +3 rating in 2025-26 amid team struggles.[6] Paired with Coyle’s extension, Jenner appears next on GM Waddell’s list.

Jenner’s 2025-26 stats:

• Games: 67
• Goals: 13
• Assists: 25
• Points: 38
• TOI/game: 16:05[6]

Staying put makes sense for continuity, though interest from playoff teams could arise.

Jenner’s durability concerns temper expectations, but at a reasonable cap hit, he holds appeal.

Claude Giroux versatile veteran for Ottawa

Claude Giroux, primarily on the wing lately with the Ottawa Senators, notched 14 goals and 49 points in 82 games.[7] Consistent output mirrors his prior campaign (15G, 50P in 81GP), proving reliability at 38.

A Flyers icon with a Hart and Art Ross, Giroux transitioned seamlessly post-trade, adding playoff savvy to young Ottawa.

His 2025-26 plus-20 rating highlights strong defensive work, blending offense and responsibility.[7]

Giroux’s recent stats:

Ottawa values his mentorship, likely pursuing a one- or two-year pact.

Giroux’s flexibility—center or wing—broadens his market if he hits open waters.

With Coyle off the board, these veterans represent the class’s depth. Teams craving experience may target Malkin for star power, Jenner for grit, or Giroux for versatility. Expect quick resolutions as free agency nears July 1, shaping contending rosters for 2026-27.[8]