NHL free agency: Top 25 players available

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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Feb 28, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Patrick Sharp (10) during the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at the American Airlines Center. The Stars defeat the Penguins 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

19. Patrick Sharp

Speaking of old forwards who are clutch performers, Patrick Sharp could be a nice addition to any NHL team hoping to win a Stanley Cup. He’s a bit risky coming off an injury ridden season, during which he only played 48 games. Sharp’s 18 points were his lowest total since 2003-04 season, back when he played for the Philadelphia Flyers. However, before last season, he had at least 40 points in each of his last eight full seasons. So Sharp’s resume is going to warrant a lot of interest from other NHL teams.

He will likely keep his preferred teams to a select few. After all, Sharp is excited to enjoy free agency for the first time in his career. It’s a rare experience for a veteran like him, who has spent virtually his entire career split between the Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars.

Best fits: Sharp’s best days came with Joel Quenneville behind the bench, so the Blackhawks make a lot of sense. Especially after they traded Artemi Panarin. Perhaps the Washington Capitals will like him if his price tag is low enough. They could certainly use someone like Sharp. A return to the Stars shouldn’t be ruled out. Finally, the Los Angeles Kings need scoring and Sharp, if healthy, could provide it.

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