Bargain Hunting With The Minnesota Wild
Apr 20, 2015; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets right wing Lee Stempniak (20) celebrates his goal on the Anaheim Ducks during the first period in game three of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at MTS Centre. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
The 32-year-old right winger has already suited up for seven NHL teams. There have been seasons where he’s scored .59 points per game or better (2006-07, 2008-09, 2009-10, and 2012-13), and that’s probably what gives GMs the idea that Stempniak can come in and provide some secondary scoring.
Stempniak could help add some depth to the middle of the lineup without costing too much (he’s coming off a one-year deal worth $900,000). If you’re leaning on him to be your go-to guy, you’re likely in trouble. But if he’s a complementary piece, especially for when the injury bug (or mumps) come calling, you are in good shape.