As we draw to the end of the off-season targets series, we find ourselves coming across a favorite of the Edmonton Journal’s Jim Matheson, F Drew Stafford of the Winnipeg Jets. Stafford was a mainstay in Buffalo for years, but was dealt to Winnipeg this past season as part of the deal that saw Evander Kane head to Buffalo.
Stafford is pending free agent, but is a player whom the Jets are trying to keep. On Sunday, reports leaked that the sides had begun talking contract, and that they hope to get something done within the next few weeks.
Why Is He Out There:
Stafford is a pending free agent, and could truly test the market for the first time in his career. For a consistent producer and a respected veteran like Stafford, that has to be a pretty interesting option. That said, there is every chance the Jets re-sign Stafford, as he was a key part of that team late in the season.
What Does He Do Well:
Stafford provides a package everyone likes, size and skill. He stands in at 6’2” and 214 pounds, which is above average for the NHL. That said, he doesn’t play an overly physical style, and some might say he’s soft from time to time.
When I say he doesn’t play an overly physical game, I mean we aren’t talking about Milan Lucic here. He’s still willing to throw his body around when need be, and he does use it to win his fair share of battles. Just don’t look at his size and think he’s a power-forward, because that simply isn’t his game.
Stafford is more of a complimentary offensive piece than anything. He’s a goal scorer who is at his best when he’s physically engaged. He has the ability to drive to the heavy scoring areas, and can win his fair share of battles in the corners.
He’s got a quick and powerful shot, and is a weapon on the power-play. Even in what some considered a down year, Stafford still found a way to score 18 goals and provide an impact in Winnipeg and even in Buffalo before the trade.
Where Will He Play / Where Should He Play:
Drew Stafford is a top-six forward at the NHL level. Ideally, he’s a second line right winger on a team that is competing. In Edmonton, I’d argue he’d be the second best right winger only behind Jordan Eberle. Now, the Oilers likely slot Nail Yakupov ahead of him, but on merit Stafford is the better player right now.
What Will He Cost:
At 29 years old, Stafford is a productive veteran with plenty of time left in his NHL career. That likely means he’s looking for exceptional money and some term on his contract. Admittedly, this could make him too rich of an option for the Oilers.
I’d say a three year deal worth around $3.25 million per gets it done, although I could see him getting more money.
Closing Arguments:
When Edmonton acquired Teddy Purcell from Tampa Bay last June, I think they thought they were acquiring a player like Drew Stafford. Purcell plays a softer game and didn’t score anywhere near enough this season in Edmonton. I’d be willing to move Purcell’s contract and find room for Stafford.
If Drew Stafford is willing to come at a reasonable number, then Edmonton should be looking at him in a big way. Stafford is a big forward who produces and plays a more physical game than someone like Purcell. Signing him changes the mix in the top-six to a degree, and opens up both Nail Yakupov and Teddy Purcell as trade chips.
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