At a recent Manchester Monarchs practice, the best skater on the ice at Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, N.H., was a 31-year-old with 281 career NHL games on his résumé. He moved with power and fluidity.

“It’s like he’s on a cushion of air,” said Mark Morris, head coach of the AHL team. “The way he skates, he reminds me of Todd Marchant when I had him. Just an effortless stride.”