Top 3 UFA Left Wingers This Summer
With a future hall of famer (or two), and a very controversial third pick, the left wingers in this year’s UFA class may bring the scoring or the “snot” - or both...
Jake Guentzel - Expected salary range: $8,000,000 - $9,500,000
Player Role: a skilled NHL forward recognized for his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. He has consistently proven himself as a top performer, particularly in high-pressure situations like the playoffs.
After being traded at the trade deadline to the Caroline Hurricanes (for a rather underwhelming return, may I say), Jake Guentzel held up his end of the bargain, tying for third on the Canes with 9 points (5 goals & 4 assists). Now, although this wasn’t his best postseason performance, Guentzel has proven time and time again to be a reliable player on the offensive end, and a crucial part of a winning team. He is sure to be one of the most approached players this off-season, possibly heading back to Pittsburgh, Nashville, or even out West to a team with loads of cap-space.
2. Steven Stamkos- Expected salary range: $5,000,000 - $6,500,000
Player Role: an absolute goal-scoring machine. Stamkos uses his lightning-fast release and one-timer to rack up points. He's not afraid to mix it up in the corners either, making him a well-rounded offensive threat. His championship pedigree and proven leadership makes him even more valuable than the scoresheet shows.
After not being re-signed by Julien BriseBois this past season, Stamkos is set to enter UFA on July 1st, though not necessarily to join a team other than the Tampa Bay Lightning. With 81 points through 79 games played, including another 40 goal season, Stamkos always brings the heat to the opposing netminder. This 40 goal performance ties him with William Nylander and Brock Boeser in the top-15. If he doesn’t return to Tampa Bay (which the acquisition of Ryan McDonough definitely doesn’t make it any easier), could he be set to return home to Toronto? Or maybe the juggernaut that is the Dallas Stars out of conference? Only time will tell.
3. Jake DeBrusk - Expected salary range: $5,500,000-$6,500,000
Player Role: a speedy and talented NHL winger known for his scoring touch and offensive versatility. He effectively uses his skating ability and strong shot to create scoring opportunities and contribute to his team's attack.
A name that much of the hockey world knows a whole lot about, (especially Leaf’s fans), this dynamic scorer is not only a proven playoff performer, but a guy that isn’t afraid to get into the physical side of the game too. With 107 hits, and 36 takeaways this year, I demonstrated his ability to round out his game, past just his scoring abilities. It is safe to say this wasn’t his best offensive year, with a -6.1 goals above expected, and a mere 10.4 shooting percentage, but the 27 year old has proven to always show up when it matters, posting a +1.8 goals above expected and improving his shooting percentage to 19.2%. Expect to see Debrusk to end up on a contender where he will continue to do his part in chasing the cup.
Honourable Mentions: Warren Foegele, Anthony Duclair, Jonathan Drouin, Teuvo Teräväinen, Dakota Joshua
Bonus:
4. Tyler Bertuzzi - Expected salary range: $5,000,000 - $5,750,000
Player Role: a gritty and versatile NHL forward known for his tenacity and offensive skills. He combines physical play with scoring ability, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the ice.
Before you start yelling at me for not including Jonathan Drouin, Teuvo Teräväinen, or even Dakota Joshua in this spot, Bertuzzi had an off year and could become a pivotal piece to a team that goes deep next post-season; something I cannot necessarily say about the names listed above…
Now, after an absolute heater of a performance in last year’s playoffs for the Boston Bruins, with 10 points through 7 games (and 3 powerplay goals!) Bertuzzi was set to join the Toronto Maple Leafs along with fellow “snot” player, Max Domi. Bertuzzi was recruited to the Leafs to bring this snot to Auston Matthews line, along with a few greasy goals and extracurricular activity. After a slow first half of the season, Bertuzzi began to pick up his offensive pace, including a hat trick on his birthday. Unfortunately, he would hover up and down between the top 3 forward lines, only contributing 4 points through his 7 playoff games this year, against his former team. Now, it is well-known that the Leafs are looking to bring him back, but with a mutual understanding of their need to address the defense first, Bertuzzi may not be able to come back. As well, the “mutual” interest between Bruins UFA Jake DeBrusk and the club, may show Bertuzzi has some competition on the roster. If he is to leave the team this offseason, could we see him join the Nashville Predators, reunite with coach Sheldon Keefe in New Jersey, or even a return to Boston?
Honourable Mentions: Warren Foegele, Anthony Duclair, Jonathan Drouin, Teuvo Teräväinen, Dakota Joshua
Comments