San Jose Sharks: 5 free-agent forwards that can replace Barclay Goodrow

1. Nate Thompson, C

At 35-years-old, center Nate Thompson isn’t getting any younger. Drafted in the sixth round in 2003 by the Boston Bruins, Thompson has become a solidified bottom-six forward in the NHL.

Over 13 seasons in the NHL, Thompson has suited up for over 750 games and has scored over 150 points. He’s been a journeyman over the course of his career, playing for eight different teams.

This season, Thompson played for the Montreal Canadiens and Philadelphia Flyers. He started the season with the Habs but was ultimately traded to Philly for a 2021 fifth-round pick.

Playing in 70 games between the two teams, Thompson scored 15 points (four goals, 11 assists) and averaged 12:47 of ice-time. More importantly, he was dominant in the faceoff circle, winning 55% of his faceoffs. Thompson also played a good amount on the penalty kill, having 155:09 of penalty kill minutes.

At 35-years-old, Thompson would be a short-term fix (one year) and a veteran presence to the younger forwards coming up from the AHL. Having just a $1 million cap hit this season, Thompson will most likely get a similar cap hit for his next deal, so he’ll be a short-term, cheap option.