A.J. Greer on the Move? Analyzing the Potential Free Agency Splash
The NHL off-season is always a whirlwind of speculation, but one name is currently generating significant buzz among insiders. According to Elliotte Friedman on his 32 Thoughts podcast, Florida Panthers winger A.J. Greer is likely to test the free agent market this summer.
For Greer, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. The 29-year-old is coming off a career-defining season where he carved out a vital role in a championship environment. With a rising salary cap and a proven track record of success, Greer is positioned for a significant payday.
The Value Proposition: Why Teams Want A.J. Greer
Greer isn’t just another winger; he is a hybrid player who brings both grit and production. His 2025-26 campaign was a testament to his growth, posting 17 goals and 15 assists for 32 points in 78 games.
Beyond the stat sheet, Greer offers:
- n
- Physicality: A relentless presence on the forecheck.
- Net-Front Ability: A knack for scoring “dirty” goals in high-traffic areas.
- Championship Pedigree: Key experience helping the Florida Panthers secure the Stanley Cup during the 2024-25 season.
Top 3 Destinations for A.J. Greer This Off-Season
If Greer decides to leave South Florida, several teams would be eager to add his versatility to their roster. Here are the three most logical fits:
1. New Jersey Devils: Adding Much-Needed Grit
The New Jersey Devils have the offensive firepower, led by the electric Jack Hughes, but they’ve struggled with consistency and depth. Last season showed that when their stars go down, the lack of bottom-six production becomes a glaring weakness.
Adding Greer would make the Devils significantly harder to play against. While players like Connor Brown and Cody Glass provided some depth, Greer brings a level of physicality and scoring touch that could turn the tide in tight playoff games.
2. Edmonton Oilers: The Perfect Forechecking Piece
Few teams know A.J. Greer better than the Edmonton Oilers. After facing him in the finals, the Oilers have seen firsthand how Greer can disrupt opposing defenses.
Edmonton has been searching for a specific archetype: a physical winger who can hunt pucks and provide secondary scoring in a third- or fourth-line role. Greer fits the bill perfectly, filling the void the Oilers hoped to address with targets like Trent Frederic.
3. Pittsburgh Penguins: The Dubas Strategy
With Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin committed to the long haul, GM Kyle Dubas is avoiding a full rebuild in Pittsburgh. Instead, he is focused on optimizing the surrounding cast.
The Penguins have found success recently by identifying undervalued depth players and maximizing their utility. Greer would provide the “bite” the Penguins lacked in their rivalry games against the Philadelphia Flyers, offering a blend of depth scoring and toughness that complements their elite top six.
Final Thoughts: Risk vs. Reward for Florida
The Florida Panthers now face a difficult decision. As Greer approaches July 1 (UFA status), Florida must decide if he is a core third-liner or a luxury fourth-liner. In a cap-constrained league, letting a player walk at the peak of their value is often a strategic move, but losing a Stanley Cup contributor is never easy.
Who do you think is the best fit for A.J. Greer? Let us know in the comments below!
