NHL free agency: Top 10 available free agents in 2020

Old Guys

These players that are near the end of their historic careers but are still on the hunt for the elusive Stanley Cup. This includes Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Jason Spezza, and Zdeno Chara (he’s got one Cup but wants another very badly).

Joe Thornton – San Jose Sharks

Everyone was shocked when Joe Thornton wasn’t traded by the San Jose Sharks before the Trade Deadline. He is one of those veterans that everyone is cheering for and will not rest until he is a Stanley Cup champion. He’s a great locker room presence, brings tons of veteran leadership, and even at 40 years old he is still able to keep up and produce. His career isn’t over yet and hopefully, a contending team takes a chance on him.

Patrick Marleau – Pittsburgh Penguins

Here’s another player that has been trying his luck with other teams but still hasn’t reached his end goal. His trade to the Pittsburgh Penguins could have been it if the world didn’t get hit with a once-in-a-century pandemic. Marleau is desperately fighting his age and this next season could be his last chance.

Jason Spezza – Toronto Maple Leafs

Jason Spezza has done everything he can to stay in this league. He left his ego at the door and signed a league-minimum contract to be a fourth-liner in the hopes of his first-ever Stanley Cup. He has proven that he still has hockey left in the tank and is willing to do anything to earn a championship.

Zdeno Chara – Boston Bruins

Zdeno Chara has won a Stanley Cup before but is not satisfied. His dedication to his physical health is unmatched and he’s doing everything he can to remain in the NHL. Last year, he signed a one-year contract with the Bruins and is ready to sign another one-year contract in an attempt to get one more championship. At 43 years old his speed and mobility are behind him but the perks of being 6’9″ involved having a ridiculous wingspan and reach, especially with a hockey stick.