Believe it or not, we are two weeks into the 2026-27 NHL season, and some free agents are remaining that could help some teams. One of them was signed last week when the Philadelphia Flyers added Michael Bunting to their roster.
When it comes to some former Boston Bruins players who are still available, two are considered among the Top 8 free agents still available according to Bleacher Report. James van Riemsdyk and Reilly Smith are two free agents who could help some teams, and both should generate some interest sooner rather than later.
2 former Bruins players listed as top remaining free agents two weeks into the 2026-27 season
Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report listed the Top8 remaining free agents two weeks into the new NHL campaign, and Reilly was ranked No. 3, and van Riemsdyk was No. 4. How could each help a team looking for depth and help with their bottom-six forward groupings?
The 35-year-old Smith played in 69 games last season for the Vegas Golden Knights. He had 16 goals and 26 points with a plaus/minus of minus-9. He played in seven playoff games last spring with a pair of assists and averaged 12 and a half minutes a game.
"(Smith's) production tumbled last season to a career-low 26 points in 69 games,'' wrote Richardson. "Still, Smith could have enough left in the tank for one more decent season. He could be a good addition to any club in the market for a skilled third-line winger.''
As for van Riemsdyk, he could help a team in one way that Reilly really can't: on the power play. Another veteran saw a decline in his numbers, but the 37-year-old is someone who can ignite a power play, according to Richardson.
"Given his age and declining production, van Riemsdyk could be best used as a power-play specialist. His experience and offensive touch could make him effective for teams seeking some extra scoring punch,'' wrote Richardson.
His numbers and overall play might be in decline, but his power play production hasn't. His one season with the Black and Gold saw him collect six man-advantage goals and 12 points. Last season with the Detroit Red Wings, he had seven power-play goals and 11 points on the man-advantage overall.
There are some bigger names still available as free agents, like Patrik Laine and Vladimir Tarasenko, but as far as low-risk, high-reward remaining free agents go for certain situations, it's hard to beat van Riemsdyk and Smith.
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