Matthew Knies and Evan Bouchard headline the most attractive RFPs in 2025 (Image Via Twitter)

Skyrocketing valuation: Setting RFA standards, Matthew Knies and Evan Bouchard

Very talented young stars like Matthew Knies and Evan Bouchard could cause big changes in team alignments if offer sheets come into play.With the NHL offseason warming, July 1 holds some importance as the beginning of the RFA signing period across the league. Among the most conspicuous names being talked about are Toronto Maple Leafs winger Matthew Knies and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard, lured with stellar seasons. Since RFAs are the only ones eligible to be offered sheets by rival franchise(s), it is going to result in months full of speculation, negotiation, and surprise.Toronto's young 22-year-old winger, Matthew Knies, seems to be on the path to becoming a franchise player someday. Knies finished with 58 points during the regular season and scored five important playoff goals. This ability to shine during crunch time might threaten other teams, planting an aggressive offer sheet for him against Toronto. Knies has scored 44 goals over two seasons and has undoubtedly proven he belongs in every conversation for top-six assignments across the league.For blue-lined defensemen, the Oilers' Evan Bouchard is probably secretly considered one of the top defensemen.He contributed 67 points in the regular season, and then he scored a whopping 23 points in just 22 playoff appearances. Bouchard's offensive savvy and power-play prowess have cemented him as a cornerstone for Edmonton, and also perhaps as a premier RFA if the talks falter.Then there are others, outside these two stars, you need to watch: Marco Rossi and Gabriel Vilardi topped 60 points this season with the Wild and Jets, respectively. Both have grown into steady centers who can be trusted with skating top-six minutes. Meanwhile, defensemen like Luke Hughes and Bowen Byram present a long-term defensive threat, making them next on the buyers' list.And of course, goalies have been important, as well: Dostal has shown flashes of brilliance despite Anaheim's struggles, and Dobes has shone in his limited time for Montreal.Also, teams taking into account the offer sheet must go through the implications for the cap and compensation; first-round picks could be the price for luring in a rising star. Yet for cap-heavy and contender-type teams, such RFAs offer a rare opportunity to rebuild immediately.Also Read: Wayne Gretzky net worth in 2025: Exploring the Great One’s business ventures and endorsements With a strong class of RFAs led by the likes of Matthew Knies and Evan Bouchard, this summer could turn the NHL landscape upside down. With July 1 coming up fast, front offices better be quick, or else bold rival teams could snatch away their stars.