Team: Anaheim Ducks Age: 28 Status: UFA
2015-2016 stats: GP: 56 G: 8 A: 12 P: 20 +/-: 2 PIM: 73
If the Avalanche are looking to add someone relatively cheap for a bottom-six role, Stewart should be their top target. He’s huge and mean, and can still skate pretty well for his size (231 pounds).
A first round draft pick (18th overall) by the Avalanche in 2006, his offensive production has nosedived since he was traded by Colorado to the St. Louis Blues in the Erik Johnson deal. That being said, he used to be a highly-touted power forward prospect.
Even if he doesn’t rediscover the form that saw him score 28 goals for the Avs in 2009-2010, he does have good enough offensive instincts to fill in in a top-six spot in a pinch. Plus, the Avalanche have the perfect player to tutor Stewart in Jarome Iginla.
Stewart’s familiarity with the organization, size, ability to play on any line and likely low cost make him an intriguing player to consider. If there are no hurt feelings, the Avalanche should give him a call on July 1.
Estimated cost: $1.75-2.75 million per season.
