Veteran Forward Mike Hoffman Still a Free-Agent Option
Veteran forward Mike Hoffman remains available on the free-agent market. Last season, Hoffman played with the San Jose Sharks, recording 10 goals and 23 points in 66 games. Despite a previous contract worth $4.5 million per season, the 34-year-old may need to settle for around $1 million next season to stay in the NHL. Here are three potential teams that could sign Hoffman this summer:
Seattle Kraken The Kraken have struggled offensively in their early franchise days. After adding Brandon Montour and Chandler Stephenson this summer, they could look to Hoffman for depth on their third line. GM Ron Francis has $11.6 million in cap space and can still add to both the offense and defense. Hoffman, despite slowing down, is capable of scoring 15-20 goals with regular minutes.
Tampa Bay Lightning The Lightning need role players and have missed out on Adam Henrique and others. Hoffman could provide secondary scoring and offer lineup security in case of injuries to top-six forwards. With $5.7 million in cap space, Tampa Bay could afford to sign Hoffman on a one-year, $1 million deal.
Boston Bruins The Bruins lost Jake DeBrusk and haven't re-signed James van Riemsdyk, leaving room for a veteran scorer like Hoffman. Boston has $8 million in projected cap space, though they need to sign Jeremy Swayman. Once Swayman's contract is settled, the Bruins could find Hoffman in the bargain bin, ready to join their roster.
