The NHL offseason is heating up, and while the headline-grabbing superstars may have already signed, the market for depth forwards is quietly sizzling. For teams looking to bolster their rosters without breaking the bank on a marquee name, this summer offers a golden opportunity to land reliable, high-impact players who could be the difference between an early tee time and a deep playoff run.

Think of it like building the perfect hockey wardrobe: you need those standout pieces—the flashy jerseys and premium gear—but it's the dependable, everyday essentials that truly complete the outfit. In the NHL, that means finding the unsung heroes who bring grit, defensive responsibility, and consistent production. Here are three depth forwards poised to cash in big this free agency period.

Jason Dickinson: The Defensive Anchor

Few bottom-six centers in the league offer the two-way reliability of Jason Dickinson. The 30-year-old from Georgetown, Ontario, was a first-round pick by the Dallas Stars, and he's finally living up to that billing. Dickinson quietly posts 30 to 35 points per season, but his real value lies in his defensive game. During the 2023-24 season, he posted a plus-four rating while playing for a Chicago Blackhawks team that finished with the second-worst record in the league—a testament to how effective he is away from the puck. Traded to Edmonton this past season for Andrew Mangiapane and a protected first-round pick, Dickinson currently carries a $4.25 million cap hit. Expect a contending team desperate for a reliable third- or fourth-line center to offer him a significant raise.

Mason Marchment: The Gritty Playmaker

Mason Marchment is the kind of player teammates love and opponents dread. The 30-year-old from Uxbridge, Ontario, has surpassed 45 points in three straight seasons, blending skill with a physical edge that makes him a nightmare to play against. His ability to drive play along the boards and create scoring chances from the dirty areas makes him a perfect fit for any team looking to add sandpaper to its middle six. With a cap hit of $4.5 million, Marchment is poised to see his value rise as teams recognize the premium on versatile forwards who can contribute offensively while bringing an abrasive style. He's the kind of player who can turn a good second line into a great one.

Jake Tye: The Rising Star

While not yet a household name, Jake Tye has the potential to be the steal of the offseason. The 26-year-old has shown flashes of offensive brilliance and improved defensive responsibility, making him an intriguing option for teams looking to add a young, cost-effective forward with upside. Tye's ability to play both wing and center gives him added versatility, and his work ethic has drawn comparisons to some of the league's most reliable depth scorers. With a market that values youth and adaptability, Tye could command a contract that reflects his potential to grow into a top-nine role.

As teams like the Detroit Red Wings and Winnipeg Jets scramble to make desperate moves, and contenders like the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings aim to maintain their status, these three players represent the kind of smart, value-driven additions that can define a successful offseason. While the big names may be off the board, the depth market is alive and well—and for the right team, these forwards could be the missing pieces to a championship puzzle.