Forward Anthony Mantha is prepared to enter the NHL unrestricted free-agent market after contract negotiations with the Pittsburgh Penguins reached a standstill, as reported by heavy.
com and sportingnews. com on June 18, 2026.
>>> Guillermo Ochoa Announces Retirement Plans After 2026 World Cup
Career Year in Pittsburgh
The veteran winger excelled during his single-season stint in Pittsburgh, scoring a career-high 33 goals and providing 31 assists to help the team secure its first Stanley Cup Playoff berth since 2022.
Despite this productivity, the Penguins only offered a short-term extension, which did not align with the multi-year security sought by the player's representatives.
NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun detailed the contractual discrepancy between the franchise and the player's camp as the free-agency period approaches.
"The Penguins would have brought him back on another one-year deal, but that’s not happening," wrote Pierre LeBrun, Insider for The Athletic.
The analyst noted that the 31-year-old forward commands significant value given the current market conditions and demand for goal scorers.
"Mantha’s camp, led by agent Olivier Fortier, will bring his client to market and likely look for a four-year deal.
There should be solid interest, given the lack of goals available on the UFA market.
I could see Mantha net between $5 million and $6 million per year," LeBrun added.
Mantha rebounded significantly in Pittsburgh following a severe knee injury that disrupted his previous tenure with the Calgary Flames.
>>> Honda Prelude 2027 Limited Edition Debuts in Japan with $39K Price Tag
