Darren Raddysh, an undrafted defenseman, experienced a remarkable breakout season in the NHL, scoring 22 goals and 70 points in just 73 games. This performance has positioned him as a high-risk, high-reward free agent, with his market value projected between $4.8 million and $12.4 million. Raddysh's impressive stats, including a Net Rating of plus-16.8, indicate he could be a top-pair defenseman, but his sudden rise raises questions about sustainability. Comparisons to Brandon Montour, another defenseman who saw a similar spike but struggled afterward, highlight the uncertainty surrounding Raddysh’s future. Factors such as team fit and role will be critical as he navigates free agency. Teams must weigh the potential rewards against the risks of investing in a player whose performance could regress. Ultimately, Raddysh's next contract will be a test of whether he can maintain his breakout level of play or if he is destined to return to a more average performance.