When looking for secondary scoring options this summer, the Edmonton Oilers will likely need to take a trip to the bargain bin. Luckily for them, NHL free agency usually has numerous options available every summer in that bin. Last year, Lee Stempniak wasn’t signed by a team and accepted a training camp invite to New Jersey Devils camp.
After a strong showing, the veteran signed a one-year deal and ended up being one of New Jersey’s better forwards. He was traded to Boston at the deadline and finished his season with 19-32-51 in 82 games. Pretty solid for a guy no one wanted to sign all summer, huh? This July, Stempniak will again test the free agent waters.
Why Is He Out There?:
The Bruins acquired Stempniak for just picks at the deadline in an attempt to push for the postseason. Boston missed the playoffs, but Stempniak was a solid pickup for them. In 19 games, the veteran registered 3-7-10. The Bruins, however, are in an interesting spot now.
No longer is Boston a legit threat to win the Cup, and now management must make a decision. Do they keep trying to sneak into the playoffs every season, or do they go with a youth movement? The answer to that question may also be the answer to Stempniak’s future with the team.
Boston also has numerous holes that it needs to fill this off-season and may allow Stempniak to walk in order to save some money for those additions.
What Does He Do Well?:
Lee Stempniak had a tremendous 2015-16 season, but those 51 points were an over-achievement based on past years. He registered 28 points (Rangers and Jets) in 2014-15, 34 points (Flames and Penguins) in 2013-14 and 32 points in 2012-13 (Flames). What we are looking at here is a depth scorer who can post around 30 points a season. It’s not top-six production, but it’s useful NHL production.
Here is Stempniak’s scouting report from The Hockey News:
| Assets: | Can be a special-teams factor, and can even play the point on the power play. Owns good quickness and a sneaky wrister. Can play either wing position and displays scoring acumen. |
| Flaws: | Doesn’t always have a lot of refinement in his play without the puck. Is somewhat undersized, which hinders his ability to win puck battles consistently. He is too streaky as a scorer. |
| Career Potential: | Solid, veteran winger. |
A key note on this player; he can produce both at even strength and on the powerplay. For an Edmonton team that lacked on the man advantage this season, adding a right-shot that can contribute would be a big get. Stempniak would immediately become a factor for the Oilers in an area that must improve.
In addition to that, Stempniak possesses enough speed and skill to play with top-tier guys. In Boston, he saw shifts with guys like Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. Not only did he see shifts with those guys, but he actually produced with them. He can play with skill, which is a very valuable attribute.
One thing not mentioned in here but that I noticed while watching him in Boston this season? Stempniak is a pretty sound defensive player as well.
Where Will He Play / Where Should He Play?:
If the Oilers signed Lee Stempniak this off-season, he would most likely slide into a second or third line role. Assuming Jordan Eberle sticks around and Nail Yakupov gets moved, then Stempniak may start on line number two. A lot of things can happen, however.
In an ideal situation, Stempniak is a third line forward. I’d say that full-time duty in the top-six is a role over his head. If Edmonton signs him, it needs to be in a depth role.
What Will He Cost?:
Stempniak played last season on a one-year deal that was worth $850,000. After registering 51 points, it is safe to say that he will be getting a raise this off-season. It also may even be wise to suggest that he will be getting a little more term on his next contract.
At 33 years old, I wouldn’t go more than two years with Stempniak. However, a two-year deal at, say, $1,800,000 per season has some value to me. The veteran will likely produce less this upcoming season, but he’s still valuable even if he returns to previous forms.
Closing Argument:
The Oilers will need to add depth scorers this off-season who can contribute in a number of different ways. Getting guys on value contracts as well will go a long way to getting Edmonton back to the NHL’s postseason. A guy like Lee Stempniak is a perfect candidate.
He’s a strong offensive option who can help on the powerplay and who has been around the block a number of times. When free agency opens this summer, the Oilers should approach this veteran forward. He has the potential to be one of those under-the-radar signings who pays off in a big way.
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