3rd Line Center – Free Agent Options
Mar 14, 2015; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Shawn Matthias (27) battles for the puck against Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nazem Kadri (43) during the third period at Rogers Arena. The Vancouver Canucks won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports
Shawn Matthias – C – 27 Years Old – 18Goals 27Points 78Games
Very capable and underrated 3rd line scoring center, Matthias was let go by the Canucks as his skills will be in demand. He can score, he works hard on+off the ice and he is rumoured to be a good locker room guy.
Cody Hodgson – C/RW – 25Years Old – 6Goals 13Points 78Games
The former 10th Overall pick by the Vancouver Canucks had issues with management and was moved to Buffalo where it was assumed he would thrive. He didn’t, in fact he struggled so much this season that he only scored 6 goals and was demoted to the 4th line for much of the season. He is a prime buy low candidate, especially if the Leafs still believe he can reach some of that offensive potential.
Shawn Horcoff – C – 36Years Old – 11Goals 29Points 76Games
The former Oilers captain and standup guy was traded to Dallas where he spent two seasons as a solid No.3 checking center who occasionally chipped in on offence. He was surpassed by Cody Eakins and spent most of the year on the wing or 4th line. He still has a little in the tank, has played in Canada and loved it.
Honourable Mentions: Antoine Vermette, Brad Richards
Next: Bargain Bin Hunting, 4th Line LW