NHL
*NOTE* This article was written by former TSJ writer, John Lehocki.
NHL Free Agents as of July 21, 2018
Drew Stafford
At the age of 32, Drew Stafford provides strong leadership skills in a locker room, and can be counted on for some goals. Drafted 13th overall in 2004, the veteran still has some gas left in the tank. Drew spent last season with the Devils and put up 15 points in 59 games.
Mark Letestu
Mark spent last season split between the Edmonton Oilers and Columbus Blue Jackets. He put up 23 points in 80 games, and can slide in to a roster as a solid third or fourth line centre. Letestu is currently 33, and could be locked up for a two to three-year contract for a playoff contending team to give them that extra boost down the middle. Letestu is a key player for any team looking for help on the penalty kill.
Tommy Wingels
Wingels makes a great addition on the fourth line of any organization. This grinder provides grit and strength to assist younger players and help compliment their game. Wingels spent the last two seasons on four different teams, and is looking to add another to that list. Wingels put up 17 points last season split between Chicago and Boston, and played in four playoff games for Boston.
Joel Ward
Ward had a disappointing setback season last year, and is looking for an opportunity to prove himself in the NHL. He’s been known as a physical presence on the third line, and can be an affordable contract for a Stanley Cup contending team. Ward has 304 points in 726 career games, and at the age of 37, would still like a shot at the cup. I would expect Pittsburgh, Chicago, San Jose or Washington to be in contact with him over the next few weeks.
Nick Shore
Nick is a young, depth forward, who deserves a shot on a roster to be a fourth line centre. He spent last season between the Kings, Senators and Flames. Shore was scheduled to be an RFA, but did not receive a qualifying offer from the Calgary Flames. Shore put up 53 points in 236 career NHL games. I would expect the Kings, Rangers, or Jets to sign him to a one year deal for a low salary.
Shane Prince
Shane had great potential, when drafted in the second round in 2011. Prince put up 178 points in 116 games, in his last two years with the Ottawa 67’s in the OHL and put up 148 points in 206 games in the AHL with the Belleville Senators. Prince never made a strong enough impact in the NHL, but has the potential to be a productive player on the wing, and should not be overlooked. Teams that should have interest in Prince include Detroit, San Jose, and Buffalo.
