2019 NHL RFA’s: A Class of Their Own

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With the school year ending, an impressive class (arguably the best ever) of RFAs are ready to graduate to bigger and better contracts. So with so many talented students ready to reap their just rewards, we ask ourselves, who’ll head to the top of the class? Will any be starting with a new school? And for the love of God can we please stop talking about Mitch Marner…

Mitch Marner: The Popular Kid

The one all the teachers seem to be discussing. While some of his classmates are sick of hearing about him, his class’s overblown reputation has him constantly at the forefront. They’re among the largest, though bereft of banners for a long while, which helps keep him on the tip of every tongue. He’s a tremendously talented student, flashy and humble, but not shy about asking for what he wants. While the principal’s confident he’ll stick around, many admirers are hoping he doesn’t transfer.

Matthew Tkachuk: The Detention Denison

He just has that way about him. Not that he’s a bad guy. In fact, his classmates love him, as he’s always willing to stick up for them, and he’s likely to be named the next head of the class. Everyone else however…

Patrik Laine: The Gamer

Can often be found in his parent’s basement playing video games. Unkempt facial hair. Disappears for extended periods of time with seemingly no explanation. Often introspective and brutally honest, with a pension for toques. Still gets a ride to school from Mom.

Brayden Point: The Overachiever

He didn’t arrive to school with much pomp and circumstance, but constantly continues to impress. Seemingly through sheer will and natural talent he’s risen to the top of the class and will no doubt be rewarded for his efforts, even if it’s another class who tries to find him a seat.

Mikko Rantanen: The Bookish One

The unassuming student who just quietly goes about his business. When you look deeper his grades jump off the page, yet his class doesn’t get the attention some others do, and he’s constantly overshadowed by a close friend and fellow classmate. However, his efforts haven’t gone unnoticed by the staff.

Sebastian Aho: The Teacher’s Pet

He’s the kind of kid teachers love and wish all their other students were. He’s attentive, hard-working, polite, and punctual. He’s always willing to help those around him, though is he prepared to share some of his reward to help his relatively small school meet its budget?

Timo Meier: The Jock

A gifted athlete with dexterity belying his size. He’d seem at home anywhere from the gridiron to the hardwood. He’s likely to be a focal point in his class for the coming years since some of the elder students are moving on, and much will be asked of his broad shoulders to bear.

Brock Boeser: The Pretty Boy

Blessed with the flowing hair of Sampson and (for now) a mouth full of beaming pearly whites, he’s the envy of many throughout his class. He’s no shortage of admirers who bemoan the schools silly helmet rules. His laid back, easy going attitude is perfect for his class’s Western local.

Charlie McAvoy: The Drama Student

An understudy groomed for several years under one of the best in the school, he’s ready to take centre stage. While not as prone to antagonistic roles as some of his more dramatic classmates, he’s not one to shy away from the limelight. His days as an apprentice may soon be coming to an end as he seeks leading man status.

Kyle Connor: The Art Kid

A creative sort who often thinks outside the box to get results. He’s quirky, but visionary with a skill set that some may not recognise at first glance, but can’t help appreciating. He’s always ready and willing to collaborate with others to help classmates reach their goals and isn’t afraid to dream big in a smaller class.