David Backes, Boston Bruins
Backes was the captain of a Blues team that seemed to be Stanley Cup bound. While his 21 goals and 45 points are not that impressive, it doesn't tell the entire story. He was the best two way forward on the Blues, posting a 4 +/- in the series against the Stars.
His defense first mentality is a perfect fit for the hard nosed Bruins. Their defense last year was far worse than their standards, as they finished 19th in GAA. With Patrice Bergeron and Backes, the Bruins forwards will take a lot of the pressure off of the defenders in their own zone.
Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning
Tampa Bay fell short of expectations in the playoffs, and a big reason for that was the injury to Stamkos. While the teams fifth ranked defense attempted to carry the team to the Stanley Cup, the struggling offense couldn't get more than three goals against the offensive minded Penguins.
With a healthy Stamkos, the Lightning get the scoring depth they had when they made it to the Stanley Cup. Stamkos has five years of 30 or more goals and is as dependable a goal scorer as they come.
Andrew Ladd, New York Islanders
Ladd was an instant success on the Jonathan Toews line this year, scoring eight goals and 12 point in 19 games with the Blackhawks. He has four seasons with at least 50 points under his belt, and is a top line quality player.
He hopes to continue his success with Islanders star forward John Tavares. Tavares was fantastic in the playoffs this year, with 11 points in as many games. However, he didn’t have a top line quality linemate, and his team struggled to find offense outside of Tavares. Ladd has Stanley Cup experience, and should help bring Tavares to new levels.
Dan Hamhuis, Dallas Stars
Hamhuis has been a top line defender for the Canucks for plenty of playoff runs. With a 81 +/-, Hamhuis has been one of the best defenders in the league over the past decade.
The Stars defense got exposed in this years playoffs. Against the Blues, they gave up four or more goals in all four of their losses. With Hamhuis, they have an elite defender they can trust in difficult situations. They also hope he can make 23 year old John Klingberg better.
Frans Nielsen, Detroit Red Wings
Nielson was third for the Islanders in playoff points this year with six. He also had 20 goals and 52 points during the regular season. He has been a consistent producer even without the ice time of a top liner.
He will fit in nicely with the Red Wings in that regard. The Red Wings rely on their depth to win, and they need players like Nielson who can produce without a lot of ice time.