NHL free agency opens in just over two weeks, and with all the talk around the Utah Mammoth being linked to some big-name players, now feels like a good time to shift focus to some potential depth options. Low-risk, high-reward types that could help support the core throughout the season.
Utah’s at a point where they’re going to need to find pieces for their middle and bottom six. With the ongoing rumors about Matias Maccelli being shopped and the possibility of Nick Bjugstad hitting the open market, there will be spots to fill.
One player they should have on their radar is Tanner Jeannot, who’s set to become a free agent on July 1. Jeannot, 28, is known for his physical edge and willingness to drop the gloves. He’s one of the toughest players in the league, and his presence is something you notice when he’s out there.
This past season with the Los Angeles Kings, he had a tough go offensively, finishing with seven goals and six assists for 13 points in 67 games. Since leaving the Nashville Predators, he hasn’t quite found the same form. But during his time with the Predators, he had a 41-point season and followed it up with an 18-point year which was the season he was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning and things started to go south.
He also recorded 211 hits with the Kings this season, which is really where his value lies. You’re signing Jeannot to forecheck hard, be a physical presence, and make opponents think twice when going back for pucks.
According to CapWages.com, he’s projected to land a deal around $1.4 million per year for two seasons. That’s a cheap number for a player who brings a lot of bite and could be a strong addition to Utah’s bottom six.
