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Right-shot forwards in short supply in NHL's free agent marketplace |
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If you are desperately looking for a right-shot forward, the free agent marketplace will resemble a rummage sale more than a gallery of artists
You will find useful players, but you won't see anyone whose body of work makes you weep with adulation.
The list of right-hand shot forwards is short, underwhelming and disappointing.
We can't in good conscience include Alex Ovechkin because if he didn't extend with the Washington Capitals it would be an upset on the order of Wayne Gretzky being traded to the Los Angeles Kings. Ryan Getzlaf is another right-hander who isn't included because it is highly likely he will sign a short-term deal with Anaheim for a modest salary and bonuses.
Here are the right-shot forwards who are in the marketplace:
Center Derek Stepan: It seems like he's been around a while, but he’s only 31. Should be able to score 15 goals and register 50 points under the right circumstance.
Center Tyler Bozak: At 35, he is productive and dependable. He can also provide veteran leadership.
Center Travis Zajac: Responsible. Trustworthy. Knows his role. Can still score enough to help.
Center Sam Gagner: Could probably score 10 or more goals with a regular role.
Center Brandon Sutter: He’s a Sutter. Shouldn't he go play in Calgary?
Right wing Alex Chiasson: Scored nine goals for the Oilers last season, but he had a 22-goal season once.
Right wing Bobby Ryan: Still has the hands to be a 35-40 point winger.
Right wing Vinnie Hinostroza: Has 272 games of NHL experience and he has enough skill to help with secondary scoring.
Right wing Colton Sceviour: Solid role player, checker, coaches find him useful
Center David Backes: Said at the end of last season that he is probably going to retire, but he hasn't made it official.
Right wing Ondrej Kase: He's 25 and he scored 20 goals once. But it was 2017-18.
Blogger •HHOF Writer's column on the NHL • 
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