The Signing: Paul Stastny, C, 28, signs with the St. Louis Blues
The Deal: Four years, $28 million
The Cap Hit: $7 million
Where he fits: The Blues are a solidly built team who could use an injection of high-end playmaking to their top six and their power play. Stastny provides that, while offering the kind of game that can fit into their overall puck possession philosophy.
The Good: Stastny is as skilled as they come in this UFA class. He’s battled injuries in the past, but when healthy is a consistent 60-70-point producer. He can tally points in bunches, skates well and should be an instant fit with David Backes or Alex Steen. He has great vision and can create for his linemates. And even on an Avalanche team that struggled to possess the puck, his +4.2% CorsiRel is impressive. He’ll fit right in.
The Bad: He’s skilled and talented but for all that he’s never been a truly elite centre, capable of putting up a point per game. He’s also not exactly reliable in his own end. He’s a great addition to the top lines, but for $7 million dollars a year he might well be making more than he’s worth.
The Grade: B+. You might wish he didn’t cost so much—and the Blues likely will before this deal is over, but the term is not too imposing and the best centre on the market lands on one of the best teams in the league.