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NHL free agency: Top 25 players available

By Dave Stevenson

May 3, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk (22) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the PPG PAINTS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
May 3, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk (22) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the PPG PAINTS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 22, 2017; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton (19) between plays against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton (19) between plays against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in game six of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Joe Thornton

The top center available in NHL free agency is Joe Thornton. He might be a short-term option, but if you’re looking to win right now, no center in this class is going to give you as much of a boost as Jumbo Joe. Thornton might be coming off a devastating knee injury, but considering he just posed nude for ESPN, he appears to be doing just fine.

Thornton is reportedly seeking a three-year deal. That might sound like a heck of a commitment for a 38 year old center, but so far, his decline has been graceful. Thornton, even in an off year, still put up 50 points. It’s outrageous that’s his lowest point total in a full season since the 1998-99 season. Thornton has never been much of a goal scorer, but he’s easily one of the best passers of all-time. He’s also extremely underrated defensively, though he’s finally been getting Selke Trophy consideration in recent years.

Best fits: The San Jose Sharks remain the best fit for Thornton. He’s extremely happy there. However, perhaps Marleau will influence his decision. If his longtime teammate doesn’t stay, Thornton will probably explore the open market. So many teams would be a great fit for him. Just assume your favorite team is an excellent fit for Thornton.

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