New to the Flock: Evaluating the Ducks’ Offseason Additions
By Jason Siders
Feb 6, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Nate Thompson (44) skates with the puck as Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Jake Gardiner (51) defends during the second period at Tampa Bay Times Forum. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nathan Thompson, C #44
Thompson was acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning for two late-round picks this offseason.
While in Tampa, Thompson served in a shutdown role on the fourth line and on the penalty kill, where he was effective. Some compare Thompson to Samuel Pahlsson, who centered the shutdown line on the Ducks 2006-07 Cup team.
“While not the sexiest addition this offseason, Thompson will be a very important part of this team.”
This past year, Thompson contributed 16 points (9g-7a) in 81 games with the Lightning, and was a net-positive possession player. He posted a 51% CF% against weaker competition in limited minutes.
The question is if he can continue to be as effective in Anaheim as he was in Tampa Bay this past season. He’s expected to center the fourth line and one of the penalty kill units, but it is uncertain who will play alongside him.
Best-Case Scenario: Thompson continues his solid play and is given good enough linemates to succeed as a secondary shutdown center. His line takes pressure off of Ryan Kesler’s line and allows them to focus more on scoring. Thompson puts up a fair number of points himself, netting 20 (10g-10a) throughout the season. Thompson is a key member of the penalty kill unit as well, which greatly improves this season.
Worst-Case Scenario: Thompson regresses slightly and is given the leftovers of the Ducks forward corp, who struggle to fit in a defensive role. Still serviceable, but not ultimately as effective as he should be. The Ducks are no stronger defensively than they were last season.
The Verdict: If he is given the right teammates, Thompson will boost Anaheim’s defensive efforts and be effective this season. While not the sexiest addition this offseason, Thompson will be a very important part of this team.