No.3: DAVID SCHLEMKO
Perhaps the most underrated player available on July 1st, David Schlemko has made a name for himself as one of the cheapest steals in New Jersey this year, growing into a top-four defenseman after being signed as a stop-gap option for the Devils.
Height / Weight: 6-foot-1, 190 lbs
Age: 29
2015-16 Stats: 67 GP — 6 Goals — 13 Assists — 19 Points
2015-16 Salary: $0.625 million
Expected UFA Salary: $1.9 million
David Schlemko doesn’t wow you with anything special but is decent all-around. He defends decently, he moves the puck well, and he is relatively mobile. He is durable and versatile, as his past as a plug-and-play guy has taught him to play both sides.
He isn’t the third-best defenseman available at this year’s free agency, but the Canucks could use a bonafide top-six guy like him who could be a steal for the Canucks. Contract flexibility is key.
Proposed Pairing
N. Tryamkin – D. Schlemko
This is a meat-and-potatoes third pairing for the Canucks. There is concern that Schlemko may not stabilize Tryamkin and make the pairing prone to poor zone exits. But if Schlemko comes at a two-year bargain deal, the Canucks will take a jab at signing the ex-Flame.
Next: No.2: DAN HAMHUIS