NHL Rumors: 3 Potential Landing Spots for Free Agent Andrew Copp
One of the more versatile forwards available on the open market is Andrew Copp of the New York Rangers. He's able to play all over the lineup and is coming off a career regular season and a great showing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. While the Rangers would love to have Copp return to the Big Apple, look for these three teams to have serious interest on July 13 when free agency begins:
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers want Evander Kane back but if things go sour with the power forward during negotiations, look for the team to try and land someone who can play the wing and down the middle. Copp brings a lot to the table as he can play in all situations and isn't afraid to mix it up in the dirty areas of the ice. He's coming off a contract paying him $3.64 million and is likely going to see something around $4.5 million per season on his next deal. One that could be coming with the Oilers.
Colorado Avalanche
The Avs are expected to lose out on Nazem Kadri who is going to sign with the highest bidder so Copp could be a cheaper replacement for Colorado. They know him well from his days with the Winnipeg Jets and had interest in acquiring him before the trade deadline when he was shipped to the Rangers. Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic is one of the best in the business and could likely get Copp to sign a cheaper deal than some teams just based on the fact the Avs could easily run it back next season to another championship.
New Jersey Devils
The Devils are a team to watch this offseason as they are looking for some scoring on their wings and depth down the middle. Copp wins close to 50% of the faceoffs he takes and has the game to play the wing in any team's top-six. His 21 goals last season were a career high and he followed it up with 14 points in 20 Stanley Cup playoff games. The Devils have the ability to overpay if needed and could easily outbid other interested teams.
Photo credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
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