RW – Seth Griffith
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I know, I know, this feels a little bit like dumpster diving. Why would the Avalanche sign a guy to a contract if he’s been on waivers multiple times?
Griffith is a small, speedy winger who has been given a couple shots in the NHL but hasn’t exactly panned out. Those chances were with the Bruins, Maple Leafs, Panthers, and Sabres. He’s been given some chances to succeed, but I don’t think he should be given up on yet.
Griffith is just shy of a point-per-game player in the AHL and his speed is something Bednar could work with in the line-up. His advanced numbers also show he still may have untapped value. They show he has great defensive zone exits with the puck and her anks in a high shot contribution per 60 percentile; the short version being he helps generate shots in the offensive zone, whether it’s him or a teammate.
Also, Nathan MacKinnon and J.T. Compher are the only players signed through next season on the offense who are right handed shots. It’s not the biggest problem in the world, but it certainly gives the coach more options.
This is a similar situation to the Nail Yakupov signing last season (without the high profile draft position of Yakupov). If Griffith puts up points and earns himself an NHL roster spot, that’s great for the Avs. If not, you can put him in the AHL for depth; no harm no foul.