The Minnesota Wild aren't expected to re-sign RFA forward Sam Steel, according to The Athletic. Just like the Anaheim Ducks a year ago, the Wild likely won't tender the 25-year-old a qualifying offer by the June 30 deadline because of a potential arbitration case decision that could make him more pricier than they can afford. 

That means he will become a UFA on July 1 with the ability to sign with any other NHL team unless the Wild trade his rights beforehand. While unlikely, both sides could circle back later in free agency.

The Wild signed Steel to a one-year contract worth $825K last August after he hit the free agent market. Steel scored 10 goals and 28 points with the Wild last season, proving to be a versatile depth option in Minnesota. But Steel isn't a priority because of the Wild's limited cap space this summer.

And while he deserves credit for being able to handle an elevated role in the No. 1 center spot with Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello on his left and right when called upon last season, a top-six role is not in the cards for him in Minnesota as he looked better at wing. Though he ended up being a bargain for his production on a near league-minimum deal, his play likely didn't justify an extension.

Not to mention the Wild would likely rather keep a roster spot open for internal replacements like Sammy Walker and Adam Beckman if either makes the team next season. Top center prospect Marco Rossi will be pushing for a full-time role this fall, too.

The Wild have to spend their money wisely this offseason since they have a tight budget of $7.29 million remaining — according to Puckpedia — with four other unsigned RFA's in goalie Filip Gustavsson, fourth-line fixture Brandon Duhaime, right-shot offensive defenseman Calen Addison and Mason Shaw.