Boston Bruins‘ 14-year right wing Lee Stempniak(18) stuck around for a long time through a strong training camp then continuing to practice with the team as they made a decision whether or not to sign the veteran of 911 NHL games (203-266-469).
It would be the 5’11” 195 lbs. forward’s 2nd stint in 3 years with the club after a trade deadline deal sent him up to the New England area initially.
He eventually signed a one-year deal after being sent to affiliate Providence Bruins, where he skated 7 games potting 2 goals and 3 assists and was recalled on an emergency basis to play his first game.
Having made appearances with no less than 10 squads throughout his long career, the 2003 St. Louis Blues‘ draft pick (5th round, #148 overall) has 9 times eclipsed 10+ goals and on 6 occasions ascended to 20+ assists.
At 36-years old he may not be putting up quite those stats anymore, especially playing limited minutes, but could be some accountability insurance as the Black N’ Gold pushes towards a postseason berth.
Recently reassigned to the AHL he has increased his totals in the minors to 4 goals and 3 assists in 9 games.