Looking at some of the still available unrestricted free agents that could help a team this year.
Alex Kovalev (PHOTO: Getty Images)
FORWARD:
Brendan Morrison, Center (UPDATE: Re-Signed with Calgary 7/15/11)
Cory Stillman, Left Wing: 39 points split between Florida and Carolina last year, would be a good addition to anyone looking for powerplay help (12 of 39 points came on the man advantage).
Sergei Samsonov, Left Wing: 40 points last year, still capable of producing offensively. But he’s only for a team that could put him on a line with a decent centerman. If the team can provide that, he could be a nice addition.
John Madden, Center: If you need a depth center who’s willing to grind it out, he’s your man. 25 points with Minnesota last year despite a -9 +/- rating.
Vinny Prospal, Center: Despite a knee injury last year, still managed 29 points with The Rangers. Another option for those seeking powerplay help (10/29 pts came on the man advantage) and/or a veteran presence in the locker room who can contribute on and off the ice.
Alex Kovalev, Right Wing: Not quite what he used to be, but still worth a sign if and only if the price is right. Managed 34 points between Ottawa and Pittsburgh last year.
Brent Sopel (PHOTO: Getty Images)
DEFENSE:
Steve Staios: A veteran who can still block a shot and contribute offensively every once in a while (10 pts in 39 games w/ Calgary last year), far from a top pairing guy, but could prove valuable depth wise.
Craig Rivet: Despite a knee injury and sitting out most of last year, well worth a pickup for the right price as a depth defenseman and nothing more. A decent shot blocker.
Ruslan Salei: Very limited offensive abilities, but another good depth move for a final pairing. 3rd on the team in shot blocks last year with Detroit.
Brent Sopel: This defensive defenseman would be a good addition to any team.
Bryan Mccabe: He’s still got some gas left in the tank, 28 points split between Florida and New York last year. Would be a decent addition to a good powerplay, but he isn’t too shabby at even strength either.
Ray Emery (PHOTO: CBC)
GOALTENDER:
Ray Emery: Coming back from a potentially career ending medical condition, Emery shined in Anaheim going 7-2-0 with a .926 save percentage and a 2.28 goals against average. Could be a valuable backup or 1B goalie.
Marty Turco: While last season didn’t go as well as he would have liked, he would still be a decent backup on any team, he’s past being a #1 goalie.
Pascal Leclaire: A risky sign ( as he’s been known to injure himself picking up a pen to sign a contract) but Pascal still has the ability to be a goaltender in the NHL, just not sure if it is as a #1.
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