Lee Stempniak, Calgary Flames
Jan 14, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Calgary Flames right wing Lee Stempniak (22) handle the puck against the Nashville Predators during the second period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports
A cheaper alternative, Stempniak is having a down year, and even at his best would be a fringe top 6 forward. He is making $2.75M this season, with 7 goals and 10 assists in 44 games. He will also be a UFA at the end of the season.
UPSIDE
A cheap veteran with no future commitment.
DOWNSIDE
Not exactly a go-to sniper and he has never scored a playoff goal (in 11 career PO games) and is a brutal -21 this season.
WHERE WOULD HE FIT
I’m not sure he would fit in the top 6, but given the alternatives he could possibly be thrust into the role, or could take the spot of someone like Colin Greening should he be moved up to Spezza’s line through necessity.