Filip Forsberg of the Nashville Predators is just one of the key names to follow ahead of the NHL free agency period, which starts several weeks from now — on July 13th, to be precise.

Forsberg's six-year contract that he signed back in 2016, one that's worth $36 million, is about to expire by the end of the 2021-22 NHL season, and while there's little to doubt with regards to his desire to stay with the Predators, his agent, J.P. Barry of CAA Sports, has quite the reputation of carrying a no-nonsense attitude when it comes to obtaining what's the best for his clients.

Via Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic:

And this is where knowing both the agent and player is important if you’re the Predators. No question Forsberg would rather not leave Nashville, but I would be careful not to tap into that too heavily if I were the Predators. Barry has negotiated some big situations over the years, including sticking to his guns with Carolina owner Tom Dundon a year ago and bringing UFA D Dougie Hamilton on a monster deal to New Jersey.

The Predators would surely love Forsberg to still be with them beyond this season, but that will mostly depend on the interest the center would get from the other teams once the NHL free agency period kicks in and the offer Nashville is willing to put on the table.

Forsberg is coming off his best season yet in the NHL, with the 27-year-old forward putting up career-highs in points (84), goals (42), and assists (42).