Any Elias News?

Has he hired an agent yet? Whats the deal? Though I would've heard more about him.

you havent heard? he's a leaf man thats old news hahahhaha

I suppose he is just taking his time. He may have already picked an agent, but is just trying to relax a bit before contract negotiations.

your stupid..................


stupid for posting such an idiotic message, I am now dumber for checking to see if was real news. Thanks for wasting 30 seconds of my life that I will never ever get back.

you havent heard? he's a leaf man thats old news hahahhahayour stupid..................


stupid for posting such an idiotic message, I am now dumber for checking to see if was real news. Thanks for wasting 30 seconds of my life that I will never ever get back.

It was obvious that he was joking. Tom Gulitti reported in the Bergen Record, "Elias wants to remain a Devil (http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMDYmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5MzU4OTkmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2)," on May 17 that Elias said,
"Winning is No. 1," he said. "You don't want to be on a team that's going to go through rough times during the season and you don't really enjoy your work. This team always has a chance to win and that's a big thing."That would preclude the Maple Leafs.

I imagine he's back in the Czech figuring out how many Korunas are in 8 million dollars.

your stupid..................


stupid for posting such an idiotic message, I am now dumber for checking to see if was real news. Thanks for wasting 30 seconds of my life that I will never ever get back.

You're stupid. ;)

177,431,759 Czk

177,431,759 Czk

That's a lot of Goulash.

After figuring out that hefty number he'll probably have to give some thought to what sweater number he'll be wearing elsewhere next season.

That's a lot of Goulash.

After figuring out that hefty number he'll probably have to give some thought to what sweater number he'll be wearing elsewhere next season.

Thanks cycleandshoot..your pro-Devil posts are always welcome...I'm sure all Devil fans love having you post over here..It's a pleasure. :D

Thanks cycleandshoot..your pro-Devil posts are always welcome...I'm sure all Devil fans love having you post over here..It's a pleasure. :D


Do you really think Lou is going to pay him 8 Million Dollars per?

I think people are hoping he'll take less than he can get elsewhere to stay and I just think that is going to be debateable untill Patrik signs on the dotted line

Do you really think Lou is going to pay him 8 Million Dollars per?

Yes.

Niedermayer was offered $7.8 million.

This is not the John McMullen or Puck Holdings era. Vanderbeek has proven he will allot the funds to Lou to retain players and remain competitive.

Do you really think Lou is going to pay him 8 Million Dollars per?

I think people are hoping he'll take less than he can get elsewhere to stay and I just think that is going to be debateable untill Patrik signs on the dotted line

Unfortunately, I agree with you..I don't think Patrik is coming back either. I just don't like hearing from such a biased Ranger fan..

Do you really think Lou is going to pay him 8 Million Dollars per?

I think people are hoping he'll take less than he can get elsewhere to stay and I just think that is going to be debateable untill Patrik signs on the dotted line

He was ready to pay Holik 8, so why not Elias. Get over yourself, holy ****ing hell.

He was ready to pay Holik 8, so why not Elias. Get over yourself, holy ****ing hell.

Yes but what if his girlfriend has a baby and its born in New York City and he wants to make sure that he plays in the same place his child was born in and it would be nice because his kid could be around a lot of Czechs who are already on the Rangers.

Doesn't that make sense?

Yes but what if his girlfriend has a baby and its born in New York City and he wants to make sure that he plays in the same place his child was born in and it would be nice because his kid could be around a lot of Czechs who are already on the Rangers.

Doesn't that make sense?

Martin Straka might not resign with the Rangers and he is a UFA so that could be one less Czech. I am sure he will but you never know if someone will overppay for him. Doesn't that make sense? :)

Also Elias might want to win a Cup in the first year his son is born and dedicate it to hiis son (best cahnce of the 2 teams this can happen with is NJ) and then take the extra cash of the $8 million he gets by NJ and spend it on his kid. Does that make sense? :)

Everyday I check here and this the picture I see:

http://www.nj.com/devils/

well after the zip code, yob, gender screen anyway

Caption this photo anyone?

Yes but what if his girlfriend has a baby and its born in New York City and he wants to make sure that he plays in the same place his child was born in and it would be nice because his kid could be around a lot of Czechs who are already on the Rangers.

Doesn't that make sense?

Of course it does. He has to be a Ranger now.

Martin Straka might not resign with the Rangers and he is a UFA so that could be one less Czech. I am sure he will but you never know if someone will overppay for him. Doesn't that make sense? :)

Also Elias might want to win a Cup in the first year his son is born and dedicate it to hiis son (best cahnce of the 2 teams this can happen with is NJ) and then take the extra cash of the $8 million he gets by NJ and spend it on his kid. Does that make sense? :)

And what if Jagr knows the best baby food for Elias' child and won't tell him what it is unless he signs with the Rangers?

I'll do an avatar bet with cycleandshoot.

He was ready to pay Holik 8, so why not Elias. Get over yourself, holy ****ing hell.

Holik 8 Mill!!!!!

:eek:

I'm sure Lou is pretty happy that Holik didn't take that deal at this point. Hindsight might lean Lou towards making Elias a Broduer type offer take it or leave it.

Bobby is a 4 Mill guy how many seasons later?

Holik 8 Mill!!!!!

:eek:

I'm sure Lou is pretty happy that Holik didn't take that deal at this point. Hindsight might lean Lou towards making Elias a Broduer type offer take it or leave it.

Bobby is a 4 Mill guy how many seasons later?

There wasn't a salary cap at that point.

Hindsight might lean Lou towards making Elias a Broduer type offer take it or leave it.


I agree. Elias will be offered $8 million by Lou and take it or leave it for $8 million with someone else.

Just to be clear I am in no way an evil Devil Basher.

Patrik Elias is the TOP Offensive UFA and has always impressed me as an ultra skilled great two way player. The fact that he's been a Devil, to me, makes him even more valuable because he has been well coached, well disciplined and has had to be a team first player. The Devils are a one of the greatest organizations ever to rise in the NHL under Lou.

Honestly he is EXACTLY the type of player the Rangers could use to improve the immediate needs of the team AND show leadership to the all young guys who will no doubt be making the team over the next few years. Rangers are largely a young rebuilding team and that rebuild is, inmine and many others opinions, based on the Devils example of success over the last decade. But as long as you have Jagr, Kasperitus and Lundqvist playing like last year (let us Ranger fans hope) the team has a reasonable shot at being competitive while the rebuild continues. Attempting to sign a Patrik Elias should be a no brainer. He may not want to leave NJ, but at this point all indicators are that he will be taking offers to see what is what. If that is infact so I agree with some of the other wiseman here that he probably can narrow his options down to half a dozen teams. Brutal as it may be for the NJ fan....I do believe one of those teams is the NY Rangers

I was born a Ranger Fan, spent my youth at MSG, and good times and not so good will always support them as my #1 team. But I have great respect for the Devils , and really most all of Hockey teams except maybe the Flyers :)

Being one of the other local teams I follow the Devils fairly close and enjoy talking it up with my Devil Fan friends, who can surely dish it as well as take it. None of my intentions are malicious trolling. I happen to really think highly of Patrik Elias and, like most hockey fans, would love to see him play for my #1 team.

I agree. Elias will be offered $8 million by Lou and take it or leave it for $8 million with someone else.That will be tough on the Devils. If he is given that, how much will Gomez and Gionta want next summer? You can't pay them $3 million each if Elias is making $8 million. They will want $5 or $6 million, and the Devils will likely not have the cap room to pay them.

And what if Jagr knows the best baby food for Elias' child and won't tell him what it is unless he signs with the Rangers?

I'll do an avatar bet with cycleandshoot.

This would be one long range avatar bet, but I would like to bet anyone here that the Rangers will finish higher in the standings and og deeper into the playoffs than the Devils do next year. Any takers?

This would be one long range avatar bet, but I would like to bet anyone here that the Rangers will finish higher in the standings and og deeper into the playoffs than the Devils do next year. Any takers?

Yes.

That will be tough on the Devils. If he is given that, how much will Gomez and Gionta want next summer? You can't pay them $3 million each if Elias is making $8 million. They will want $5 or $6 million, and the Devils will likely not have the cap room to pay them.

I do not think all 3 of them will remain Devils for longterm. I agree with you that might not be possible. But I think we can all agree that Elias of the 3 is the most important player to retain longterm.

After that I would think Gionta would remain a Devil with a nice increase longterm.
Like you have notioned, I have notioned, and others have as well I do think it might be in necessary to part ways with Gomez for a quality return of some type next season at the deadline.

Regardless, I do think Lou is ging to offer max salary to Elias. I just get that feeling.

Like you have notioned, I have notioned, and others have as well I do think it might be in necessary to part ways with Gomez for a quality return of some type next season at the deadline.


I don't see him being dealt at the deadline if the Devils are in the playoff hunt which I see no reason why they wouldn't be. I think it's a situation where you will either have to deal him before the season or take a chance after that he will return. The main problem you have with dealing a main cog in your team provided you are post-season bound is that you simply cannot get equal value as you would need the perfect trading partner presumably in the same situation the Devils are in with Gomez where an impact player is going to be a UFA and there is a good chance he will not be retained. Many teams will not phunk with the team chemistry to the nth degree like this would heading into a playoff run toward the end of the reg.season.

I don't see him being dealt at the deadline if the Devils are in the playoff hunt which I see no reason why they wouldn't be. I think it's a situation where you will either have to deal him before the season or take a chance after that he will return. The main problem you have with dealing a main cog in your team provided you are post-season bound is that you simply cannot get equal value as you would need the perfect trading partner presumably in the same situation the Devils are in with Gomez where an impact player is going to be a UFA and there is a good chance he will not be retained. Many teams will not phunk with the team chemistry to the nth degree like this would heading into a playoff run toward the end of the reg.season.

Do a sign and trade or trade his rights during the offseason, then.

There will be no Elias news till he returns from the World Cup in Germany. That is where he is at the moment.

After that you can expect some sort of news about the agent he chooses. The devils don't have to re-sign him by the 15th b/c the NHL and NHLPA agreed to toss that clause out the window this year.

Just to be clear I am in no way an evil Devil Basher.

Patrik Elias is the TOP Offensive UFA and has always impressed me as an ultra skilled great two way player. The fact that he's been a Devil, to me, makes him even more valuable because he has been well coached, well disciplined and has had to be a team first player. The Devils are a one of the greatest organizations ever to rise in the NHL under Lou.

Honestly he is EXACTLY the type of player the Rangers could use to improve the immediate needs of the team AND show leadership to the all young guys who will no doubt be making the team over the next few years. Rangers are largely a young rebuilding team and that rebuild is, inmine and many others opinions, based on the Devils example of success over the last decade. But as long as you have Jagr, Kasperitus and Lundqvist playing like last year (let us Ranger fans hope) the team has a reasonable shot at being competitive while the rebuild continues. Attempting to sign a Patrik Elias should be a no brainer. He may not want to leave NJ, but at this point all indicators are that he will be taking offers to see what is what. If that is infact so I agree with some of the other wiseman here that he probably can narrow his options down to half a dozen teams. Brutal as it may be for the NJ fan....I do believe one of those teams is the NY Rangers

I was born a Ranger Fan, spent my youth at MSG, and good times and not so good will always support them as my #1 team. But I have great respect for the Devils , and really most all of Hockey teams except maybe the Flyers :)

Being one of the other local teams I follow the Devils fairly close and enjoy talking it up with my Devil Fan friends, who can surely dish it as well as take it. None of my intentions are malicious trolling. I happen to really think highly of Patrik Elias and, like most hockey fans, would love to see him play for my #1 team.

I personally think that he would rather not play in Jagr's shadow.

There will be no Elias news till he returns from the World Cup in Germany. That is where he is at the moment.
Damn World Cup :shakehead

I don't see him being dealt at the deadline if the Devils are in the playoff hunt which I see no reason why they wouldn't be. I think it's a situation where you will either have to deal him before the season or take a chance after that he will return. The main problem you have with dealing a main cog in your team provided you are post-season bound is that you simply cannot get equal value as you would need the perfect trading partner presumably in the same situation the Devils are in with Gomez where an impact player is going to be a UFA and there is a good chance he will not be retained. Many teams will not phunk with the team chemistry to the nth degree like this would heading into a playoff run toward the end of the reg.season.


I don't think that is right. As far as a "Perfect Trading Partner" and team chemistry is concerned.

I think a top 5 Playmaking Center over the last few years that has put up 30+ goals and 80+ points this season will garner High Interest regardless of the certain circumstances of Contract or any other peripheral issues.


A pure passer can find chemistry with any natrual scorer and Gomez has racked up a ton of asissts no matter who he has played with (C. Lemieux, Gionta, Mogilny, Elias)


Gomez would be an impact player on any team he played for. For many teams, a player like Gomez would move that team into a different level of playoff expectation.

Imagine Gomez and Inginla playing together? Imagine Gomez and Sakic as your 1 and 2 centers.

I think if Gomez was "know to be available" there would be extreme interest from at least a half a dozen teams at any point even as a UFA.

30-Jan-06: St. Louis Blues traded Doug Weight and the rights to Erkki Rajamaki to the Carolina Hurricanes for Jesse Boulerice, Mike Zigomanis, the rights to Magnus Kahnberg, a 1 st and a 4th round selections in 2006 and a 4th round selection in 2007.

3 draft picks and 3 prospect for an aged veteran playmaker that has been hampered with knee problems since 2001-02.

Damn World Cup :shakehead

And first game, U.S. vs. Patty's team. Monday at noon for anyone interested. (Although you prob. know that already if you're interested.)

3 draft picks and 3 prospect for an aged veteran playmaker that has been hampered with knee problems since 2001-02.
you a better deal than what STL got from Carolina. I'll give you the same 3 picks and the rights to Jan Marek, Marcel Hossa and Dom Moore. All three of our players are a heck of a lot better than the 3 pieces of dog crap that STL got for Weight. I've given you 2 NHLers, a euro like STL got, except ours is a lot better prospect.

STL got picks, the players to me were more of an exchange of some of the contract considerations. Please pass it on to Lou, not the moderator Lou.

I don't think that is right. As far as a "Perfect Trading Partner" and team chemistry is concerned.

I think a top 5 Playmaking Center over the last few years that has put up 30+ goals and 80+ points this season will garner High Interest regardless of the certain circumstances of Contract or any other peripheral issues.


A pure passer can find chemistry with any natrual scorer and Gomez has racked up a ton of asissts no matter who he has played with (C. Lemieux, Gionta, Mogilny, Elias)


Gomez would be an impact player on any team he played for. For many teams, a player like Gomez would move that team into a different level of playoff expectation.

Imagine Gomez and Inginla playing together? Imagine Gomez and Sakic as your 1 and 2 centers.

I think if Gomez was "know to be available" there would be extreme interest from at least a half a dozen teams at any point even as a UFA.

Are we in agreement that it would be tough for the Devils to deal him at the deadline if they are in the playoff hunt and/or already a shoe-in? Aren't too many options..deal him in the offseason going into his final year....deal him early in the season...deal him at the deadline...play it out and take your chances in UFA land...your choice. This is all assuming of course he signs a 1 yr deal simply to get him to UFA status.

Are we in agreement that it would be tough for the Devils to deal him at the deadline if they are in the playoff hunt and/or already a shoe-in? Aren't too many options..deal him in the offseason going into his final year....deal him early in the season...deal him at the deadline...play it out and take your chances in UFA land...your choice. This is all assuming of course he signs a 1 yr deal simply to get him to UFA status.

Why is it such a problem to deal him this offseason? Trade his rights, or sign him to a 1yr/long-term deal and then ship him off for some good value.

Why is it such a problem to deal him this offseason? Trade his rights, or sign him to a 1yr/long-term deal and then ship him off for some good value.

Not a problem to deal him this offseason...you sign him to a 1yr deal and then trade him...I'm just curious if Lou is thinking the same way or is he content to try and wait it out to get something done long term...also curious what kind of value would be offered in return seeing as how he could walk on the team that acquires him at a 1yr deal.

If Elias leaves there should be plenty of money to sign Gomez and Gionta. If Gomer doesn't want to sign let's say between 4 & 5 million at 4 or 5 years then ship him off as soon as possible. And as for Elias, I don't believe he's worth 8 million per year to the Devils, if that's what he's looking for.

I thought if Niedermeyer left others would follow.

Now it is Elias who holds all the cards, and again if he leaves I think others will follow. There's always so much weight put on Nieds leaving to play w/ his bro, but it has to be more than that. He was the Devils BEST player and a Norris guy. Lou could have brought the Bro to NJ to appease his BEST player.

Change can be exciting and new and feed new energy into an individual. If you worked your whole life to become the Elite Player at your position than at your prime moment of UFA the world is your Oyster, anything is possible.



If Both Elias and Gomez leave where does that leave NJ? And with all this Elias talk Jamie Langenbrunner seems pretty quiet. Will he be in NJ next year?

Are the Devils soon to be a team officially on the rebuild?

I thought if Niedermeyer left others would follow.

Now it is Elias who holds all the cards, and again if he leaves I think others will follow. There's always so much weight put on Nieds leaving to play w/ his bro, but it has to be more than that. He was the Devils BEST player and a Norris guy. Lou could have brought the Bro to NJ to appease his BEST player.

Change can be exciting and new and feed new energy into an individual. If you worked your whole life to become the Elite Player at your position than at your prime moment of UFA the world is your Oyster, anything is possible.



If Both Elias and Gomez leave where does that leave NJ? And with all this Elias talk Jamie Langenbrunner seems pretty quiet. Will he be in NJ next year?

Are the Devils soon to be a team officially on the rebuild?

No.

Now go back to the Rangers board.

I thought if Niedermeyer left others would follow.

Now it is Elias who holds all the cards, and again if he leaves I think others will follow. There's always so much weight put on Nieds leaving to play w/ his bro, but it has to be more than that. He was the Devils BEST player and a Norris guy. Lou could have brought the Bro to NJ to appease his BEST player.

Change can be exciting and new and feed new energy into an individual. If you worked your whole life to become the Elite Player at your position than at your prime moment of UFA the world is your Oyster, anything is possible.

If Both Elias and Gomez leave where does that leave NJ? And with all this Elias talk Jamie Langenbrunner seems pretty quiet. Will he be in NJ next year?

Are the Devils soon to be a team officially on the rebuild?

The Devils as an organization and Lou specifically don't believe Nieds was their best player. And he got offered quite a tidy sum. But we don't bring players to the team to "appease" a player. They get brought in if they fit and won't cause turmoil within the team. Bringing Rob in with Nieds already firmly entrenched would have been a geek move.

I do agree that free agents, especially those who have been with the organization their whole careers, might choose to try something different. As disappointing as it is to have them go, it certainly makes a lot of sense.

There is no talk on any front right now in the media from the Devils, be it Elias, Langenbrunner, Gomez or otherwise. There has been the usual hypothesizing. The former two will be hitting the free-agent market, to see what's out there for them both in terms of pay and in terms of opportunity to win. With Elias in particular, he recognizes that on both fronts as well as an opportunity for him to become what he emotionally saw Stevens and Dano become this year within the organization. Does he want that or would he like to play somewhere where he might get more recognition for the premium talent he has?

Then there is what does Gomez want in the long-term? He seems to have embraced a lot this year, becoming a better player for it. But he too may want to go somewhere else.

We'll see, since we don't know their mind-sets or what they'll ultimately be offered, it's a waiting game. If Elias leaves and there's certainly not a lot in the market to fill that role on the team, it doesn't look great. But people leave and the Devils always go on, dangerous to other teams and always a playoff threat.

But people leave and the Devils always go on, dangerous to other teams and always a playoff threat.


So True

Are the Devils soon to be a team officially on the rebuild?

No. So long as big #30 is between the pipes, this team is not rebuilding.

He was the Devils BEST player and a Norris guy.The Devils best player wears a mask. In 2003-04 when Scott Niedermayer won the Norris Trophy, Marty Brodeur won the Vezina Trophy for the second consecutive season and was a finalist for the Hart Trophy for the second consecutive season.

Martin Brodeur was and is the Devils best player.

Lou could have brought the Bro to NJ to appease his BEST player.There have been reports that Lou Lamoriello tried to get Rob Niedermayer on more than one occasion prior to Scott Niedermayer's being urestricted.

Are the Devils soon to be a team officially on the rebuild?Lou Lamoriello does not do things the way other GM's do. He will make adjustments to the team while keeping the it very competitive.

Michael Lewis should have written about Lou Lamoriello.

If I were the Devils I would NOT resign Patrick Elias. Even though I love him as a player and would love for him to come back, I would rather have the devils sign a second line speedy winger (Pisani is a possibility or someone more skilled), trade lukowich for a 3 or 4th round pick and sign a good defenseman. This would make the Devils a better overall team and eliminate the cap problems in signing back Gionta and Gomez.

Jersey will be getting hit with Mogilny's salary at the very least, and maybe the other guy's, so how can they sign Elias for 8 million when they would have 8.9 million in cap room and only 13 guys signed? I'm assuming Gomez and Gionta get signed for a combined cost of 7.5 million, because let's face it, a guy who almost scored 50 goals isn't going to be paid under a million again.

Jersey will be getting hit with Mogilny's salary at the very least, and maybe the other guy's, so how can they sign Elias for 8 million when they would have 8.9 million in cap room and only 13 guys signed? I'm assuming Gomez and Gionta get signed for a combined cost of 7.5 million, because let's face it, a guy who almost scored 50 goals isn't going to be paid under a million again.

O, they will? Has the arbitrator ruled on the grievance yet? No, I don't think so, so let's not be too presumptuous.

NJ will likely buy out Mogilny's contract, and I will guess Malakhov's salary won't count due to a number measures, namely him leaving the team without permission and possibly voiding his contract. Also, an interesting thought has been to place both on the long-term IR, and replace their contracts with those of other players. That would work as well.

O, and Mogilny and the other guys, with an 's'? Who is the third guy? Dan McGillis' salary will stay buried in the AHL.

If you want cap estimations for the Devils, consult this thread:
http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=255421&page=1

If I were the Devils I would NOT resign Patrick Elias. Even though I love him as a player and would love for him to come back, I would rather have the devils sign a second line speedy winger (Pisani is a possibility or someone more skilled), trade lukowich for a 3 or 4th round pick and sign a good defenseman. This would make the Devils a better overall team and eliminate the cap problems in signing back Gionta and Gomez.
If we do what you say, that makes us a one-line team again. A second line winger, with Brylin to center him and maybe Langenbrunner, maybe a rookie on the other wing isn't going to put up many goals, and in the new NHL you're not going to go anywhere with just one truly dangerous scoring line.

If we do what you say, that makes us a one-line team again. A second line winger, with Brylin to center him and maybe Langenbrunner, maybe a rookie on the other wing isn't going to put up many goals, and in the new NHL you're not going to go anywhere with just one truly dangerous scoring line.

This is why Elias is worth every penny, of every dollar, of every million of the 8 he will get.

If we do what you say, that makes us a one-line team again. A second line winger, with Brylin to center him and maybe Langenbrunner, maybe a rookie on the other wing isn't going to put up many goals, and in the new NHL you're not going to go anywhere with just one truly dangerous scoring line.



The Hurricanes only had one good line but they had amazing scoring depth and the extra forward possibly a center will provide a good second line which the Devils gained when Elias came back. However Elias as a player is going to be worth way to much. He is no way worth more than $5 Million dollars and anything more will ruin the devils in terms of the salary cap in the future

Lou was on WFAN this afternoon and while he did not specifically mention Elias, he did discuss the Niedermayer negotiations and how they will affect how he approaches free agents in the future. Lou basically said he waited too long on Niedermayer, but wanted to give him every opportunity to return because of what he had done for the organization. He said the organization wound up being handcuffed and when Niedermayer left, they didn't have many options left, but that won't happen again this year. Overall seems like Elias will get a final offer before July 1 and if he doesn't accept it, Lou will move on.
Also, Pat Burns isn't an option for coach.

The Hurricanes only had one good line but they had amazing scoring depth and the extra forward possibly a center will provide a good second line which the Devils gained when Elias came back. However Elias as a player is going to be worth way to much. He is no way worth more than $5 Million dollars and anything more will ruin the devils in terms of the salary cap in the future
Hurricanes had only one good line? Which one was it - the one centered by Staal, Brind'Amour, or Weight? The Hurricanes do have more scoring depth than the Devils, they've got 3 legitimate scoring lines.

What you're proposing won't help the Devils depth up front at all. Essentially you're suggesting that the Devils let Elias go, then replace him with some second line player. That's not a step forwards, that's a big step backwards. And Elias is worth way more than 5 million a year, I don't think there's a team in this league that wouldn't love to sign him for 5 million per, even the ones with owners cheaper than Scrooge.

Here's an impressive stat for you: Eric Staal and Cory Stillman are the point leaders in the playoffs, each with 22 points in 21 games. Elias is only 6 points behind them, and they played in 12 more games than he has. Not only is he a huge offensive threat, a great two-way player and one of this team's leaders, he comes up huge in the playoffs. There is no way that you can replace him on this roster.

Hurricanes had only one good line? Which one was it - the one centered by Staal, Brind'Amour, or Weight? The Hurricanes do have more scoring depth than the Devils, they've got 3 legitimate scoring lines.

What you're proposing won't help the Devils depth up front at all. Essentially you're suggesting that the Devils let Elias go, then replace him with some second line player. That's not a step forwards, that's a big step backwards. And Elias is worth way more than 5 million a year, I don't think there's a team in this league that wouldn't love to sign him for 5 million per, even the ones with owners cheaper than Scrooge.

Here's an impressive stat for you: Eric Staal and Cory Stillman are the point leaders in the playoffs, each with 22 points in 21 games. Elias is only 6 points behind them, and they played in 12 more games than he has. Not only is he a huge offensive threat, a great two-way player and one of this team's leaders, he comes up huge in the playoffs. There is no way that you can replace him on this roster.




But I still think the Devils would be better off in the future in terms of the salary cap. Parise and Rafalski are just a few of the free agents next year so salary cap space would be needed. Along with letting Elias go the Devils would have to make a blockbuster trade at the deadline to acquire a great second line center and dump some of their aging players

However Elias as a player is going to be worth way to much. He is no way worth more than $5 Million dollars and anything more will ruin the devils in terms of the salary cap in the future

Are you kidding me? Elias not worth more than $5 million? With the exception of his injury-halted season this past year, Elias led this team in scoring from 99-00 to the present. He single-handedly turned our season around. Without Elias, we may very well be in the running for Erik Johnson, Phil Kessel, or Nicklas Backstrom. Elias is the prototypical forward. He is now, IMO, on par with Forsberg. He has the offensive prowess to dominate a game while also playing a physical defensively sound game. Elias is a top 5 forward in this league. He is far and away the league's best overall winger. He will be our captain for the next decade; mark my words.

Either way Elias or not the Devils are poised to make the playoffs with a progresing Parise as well as young guns Zajac and Bergfors as well as defensmen Martin, Hale, and Greene. The Devils are set for the future which I can't say for Philly, NYI, or the Penguins. The only competition the Devils could possibly could have is the Rangers and the Flyers if their injured players recover.

Either way Elias or not the Devils are poised to make the playoffs with a progresing Parise as well as young guns Zajac and Bergfors as well as defensmen Martin, Hale, and Greene. The Devils are set for the future which I can't say for Philly, NYI, or the Penguins. The only competition the Devils could possibly could have is the Rangers and the Flyers if their injured players recover.

Um, a little too optimistic there. Did you fail to see how this team played without Elias for the first half of 05-06?

While I agree we have some very good young forwards in Parise, Bergfors, Zajac, Tallackson, etc., our farm system is pretty average as a whole. The forwards might be very good, but there is a definite lack of defense and goaltenders.

Lou was on WFAN this afternoon and while he did not specifically mention Elias, he did discuss the Niedermayer negotions and how they will affect how he approaches free agents in the future. Lou basically said he waited too long on Niedermayer, but wanted to give him every opportunity to return because of what he had done for the organization. He said the organiztion wound up being handcuffed and when Niedermayer left, they didn't have many options left, but that won't happen again this year. Overall seems like Elias will get a final offer before July 1 and if he doesn't accept it, Lou will move on.
Also, Pat Burns isn't an option for coach.
Wow, that is highly unusual of Lou to spill the beans.

Either way Elias or not the Devils are poised to make the playoffs with a progresing Parise as well as young guns Zajac and Bergfors as well as defensmen Martin, Hale, and Greene. The Devils are set for the future which I can't say for Philly, NYI, or the Penguins. The only competition the Devils could possibly could have is the Rangers and the Flyers if their injured players recover.


Philly has a great future. They have Carter-Richards as their 1-2 punch down the middle. That is just as good as Parise-Zajac. Likewise, they have Joni Pitkanen on defense and he is slightly better than Paul Martin right now.

If one is concerned with having the offense concentrated in one line or one player, giving Patrik Elias $8 million would more likely do just that.


Um, a little too optimistic there. Did you fail to see how this team played without Elias for the first half of

05-06?Much of the teams play prior to the return of Elias had to do with the fact that they were waiting for the return of Elias. The

team can say that they are not thinking about the return of a specific player, but that is not that realistic.

When someone leaves the team, the remaining players are much more likely to move on.

Lou was on WFAN this afternoon and while he did not specifically mention Elias, he did discuss the Niedermayer negotiations and how they will affect how he approaches free agents in the future. Lou basically said he waited too long on Niedermayer, but wanted to give him every opportunity to return because of what he had done for the organization. He said the organization wound up being handcuffed and when Niedermayer left, they didn't have many options left, but that won't happen again this year. Overall seems like Elias will get a final offer before July 1 and if he doesn't accept it, Lou will move on.
Also, Pat Burns isn't an option for coach.

That's very good to hear. I know how important Elias is to this team, but we can't let what happened with Nieds happen again. I also feel that 7 million for 4 or 5 years is fair enough. It's true that we were a much better team with Patrick, but we also didn't make it out of the second round. With this cap, you also have to consider the future and sometimes you might have to bite the bullet and take one step back to take two forward. I feel he owes this organization something, others might say he owes them nothing. I guess it's all a matter of opinion.

However Elias as a player is going to be worth way to much. He is no way worth more than $5 Million dollars and anything more will ruin the devils in terms of the salary cap in the future

And here lies the issue. He IS worth 8 Million , but perhaps not to the Devils with their D minded philosophy. At 5 Million yes at 6, 7+ The Devils are making a deep commitment in the new era of the cap.

...Will he stay or will he go now....if he stays there will be trouble....if he goes there will be double...come on and let me knowww

Should he stay or Should he go?

Lou was on WFAN this afternoon and while he did not specifically mention Elias, he did discuss the Niedermayer negotiations and how they will affect how he approaches free agents in the future. Lou basically said he waited too long on Niedermayer, but wanted to give him every opportunity to return because of what he had done for the organization. He said the organization wound up being handcuffed and when Niedermayer left, they didn't have many options left, but that won't happen again this year. Overall seems like Elias will get a final offer before July 1 and if he doesn't accept it, Lou will move on.
Also, Pat Burns isn't an option for coach.

Sounds like damage control. I think Lou and the Devils have only ONE option now, same as with Nieds. The hands are already tied.

After July 1st, will Patrik Elias want to play for the NJ Devils anymore?

The market will come to the table, offers will be made and he will decide based on a whole list or criteria that is only important to him and his family and future in the NHL. Where does he want to go from here?

I hate to say this cause I really love Elias. BUT, Signing Elias for 4 or 5 years at 7+ per would kill the Devils.

Think about it-- Which scenario would the Devils be better off in:

Signing Elias locking up $35M for 5 years...Loosing Langenbrunner and probably loosing Gomez the following year.. and being handcuffed to add players.

Or

Loosing Elias and taking that 7 Million and signing a $4M Center(Maybe Arnott?) and a $3M LW or Dman (Maybe Samsonov or go cheaper and resign Friesen?) (just examples here don't jump on me for the names) Keeping Langenbrunner and having the flexibility in the 2nd and 3rd year to resign Gomez.


I think the second scenario is better for the future of New Jersey.


I don't know, locking up 7 Million on one player in this NHL could be big trouble. We've seen all over the NHL 4 balanced lines is the formula to winning and with 7Million you can easily get 2 or 3 20 goal scorers that add depth to all your lines .

If the Devils had no other holes signing Elias for 7 a year maybe the answer, but the Devils need another center, they probably need another puck moving Dman and they need to keep/sign some of there core players in the future.

Tough decisions. But logically it seems to me that the Devils can not spend 7M on one player at this point.

I hate to say this cause I really love Elias. BUT, Signing Elias for 4 or 5 years at 7+ per would kill the Devils.

Think about it-- Which scenario would the Devils be better off in:

Signing Elias locking up $35M for 5 years...Loosing Langenbrunner and probably loosing Gomez the following year.. and being handcuffed to add players.

Or

Loosing Elias and taking that 7 Million and signing a $4M Center(Maybe Arnott?) and a $3M LW or Dman (Maybe Samsonov or go cheaper and resign Friesen?) (just examples here don't jump on me for the names) Keeping Langenbrunner and having the flexibility in the 2nd and 3rd year to resign Gomez.


I think the second scenario is better for the future of New Jersey.

I don't know, locking up 7 Million on one player in this NHL could be big trouble. We've seen all over the NHL 4 balanced lines is the formula to winning and with 7Million you can easily get 2 or 3 20 goal scorers that add depth to all your lines .

If the Devils had no other holes signing Elias for 7 a year maybe the answer, but the Devils need another center, they probably need another puck moving Dman and they need to keep/sign some of there core players in the future.

Tough decisions. But logically it seems to me that the Devils can not spend 7M on one player at this point.

We are all Devils fans....we've been down this road before. Patrik is a goner..Unless he is willing to to take 6-6.5 million...I think it's time for the Devils to go in a nother direction.

I hate to say this cause I really love Elias. BUT, Signing Elias for 4 or 5 years at 7+ per would kill the Devils.

Think about it-- Which scenario would the Devils be better off in:

Signing Elias locking up $35M for 5 years...Loosing Langenbrunner and probably loosing Gomez the following year.. and being handcuffed to add players.

Or

Loosing Elias and taking that 7 Million and signing a $4M Center(Maybe Arnott?) and a $3M LW or Dman (Maybe Samsonov or go cheaper and resign Friesen?) (just examples here don't jump on me for the names) Keeping Langenbrunner and having the flexibility in the 2nd and 3rd year to resign Gomez.


I think the second scenario is better for the future of New Jersey.


I don't know, locking up 7 Million on one player in this NHL could be big trouble. We've seen all over the NHL 4 balanced lines is the formula to winning and with 7Million you can easily get 2 or 3 20 goal scorers that add depth to all your lines .

If the Devils had no other holes signing Elias for 7 a year maybe the answer, but the Devils need another center, they probably need another puck moving Dman and they need to keep/sign some of there core players in the future.

Tough decisions. But logically it seems to me that the Devils can not spend 7M on one player at this point.


Jim,

My point was that I wouldn't pay Elias the 8 million he's reported looking for. I didn't want to get slammed by my fellow Devil fans. Glad you have the courage I don't.

Octagon's hockey division will be representing Elias during contract negotiations

Jim,

My point was that I wouldn't pay Elias the 8 million he's reported looking for. I didn't want to get slammed by my fellow Devil fans. Glad you have the courage I don't.
Where did you hear Elias is looking for $8 Mill a season?

Octagon's hockey division will be representing Elias during contract negotiationsWhat kind of reputation do they have? Are they hated or respected by management?

Where did you hear Elias is looking for $8 Mill a season?Mark N.Everson?

Mark N.Everson?
Well if it is Neverson, then the figure is probably closer to $12 Mill.

Well if it is Neverson, then the figure is probably closer to $12 Mill.And he would likely throw in a Gomez trade to boot.

Larry Brooks did write the article about Richards contract affecting the Elias negotiations.

Either way Elias or not the Devils are poised to make the playoffs with a progresing Parise as well as young guns Zajac and Bergfors as well as defensmen Martin, Hale, and Greene. The Devils are set for the future which I can't say for Philly, NYI, or the Penguins. The only competition the Devils could possibly could have is the Rangers and the Flyers if their injured players recover.


You mean to tell me the Penguins are not set for the future with Crosby & Malkin up front and Fleury in goal. If they manage to get Erik Johnson for their blueline they will potentially have a premier player in goal, on defense and offense. NJD have some good prospects but nothing compared to Crosby, Malkin and Fleury. It will be a few years before they are going to compete regularly but come on to say they have no future ...... :dunno:

Octagon's hockey division will be representing Elias during contract negotiations

where did you hear this?

What kind of reputation do they have? Are they hated or respected by management?
Octagon includes Walsh and Schatia, Havlat's agents. I think the other agents are more benign/low key, though I doubt they're relevant if he did hire Octagon.

Octagon includes Walsh and Schatia, Havlat's agents. I think the other agents are more benign/low key, though I doubt they're relevant if he did hire Octagon.

Walsh and Schatia worked for AMG prior to Octagon. They have probably around 40 clients including Havlat. Gaborik is a former client and they sued him after he fired them. Their demands are usually excessive and they rely heavily on comparables, so expect them to bring up the Richards contract in negotiations.

Their demands are usually excessive and they rely heavily on comparables, so expect them to bring up the Richards contract in negotiations.

Great... thanks, Feaster, for ****ing up the the salary cap system.

You mean to tell me the Penguins are not set for the future with Crosby & Malkin up front and Fleury in goal. If they manage to get Erik Johnson for their blueline they will potentially have a premier player in goal, on defense and offense. NJD have some good prospects but nothing compared to Crosby, Malkin and Fleury. It will be a few years before they are going to compete regularly but come on to say they have no future ...... :dunno:


Im only saying the Penguins will not be competition this year

Great... thanks, Feaster, for ****ing up the the salary cap system.


So true

According to todays papers Lou has not heard from any agent regarding Elias.

Lamoriello said he has not yet heard whether Patrik Elias has hired an agent.

http://www.nypost.com/sports/devils/hidden_julien_devils_mark_everson.htm

In the LedgerToday, it was stated that aside from Lou's #1 priority of getting Elias signed and the RFA's that if there was any cap room left he would seek a defenseman thru free agency.

I do not think the Devils need even 1 defenseman at all. They need to add some size at Center. They have 6 or 7 solid defenseman. White, Martin, Rafalski, Matvichuk, Hale, Lukowich and possibly Greene and Albelin. Why go after another. He should draft a defenseman do add some depth to a thin group of prospects on the system but on the team they have a very solid group of defenseman and can play shut down hockey with the same group they had this year.


Lou needs to retain his FA's especially Elias, seek a big Power Center and leave the Defense alone.

We do have a pretty solid core of d-men, but we need a guy who can move the puck and QB the PP. Rafalski is good, and Martin is ok right now. Beyond that, we have no one.

Hopefully Greene can step into that role. However, it would be very risky to go with Greene and then have to scramble in September/October to find someone if Andy isn't up to the task.

I agree that a big center is a need, but I think a puck-moving D is one as well.

Hopefully Greene can step into that role. However, it would be very risky to go with Greene and then have to scramble in September/October to find someone if Andy isn't up to the task.



If Greene isn't ready He'll be a 7th.....If he is Ready he'll probably be a 7th.

Rafalski, White, Martin, Matvichuk, Hale, Lukowich and Greene. This is a pretty good situation I think.


I think from the Blueline back we are in good shape.

Hopefully Greene can step into that role. However, it would be very risky to go with Greene and then have to scramble in September/October to find someone if Andy isn't up to the task.

Tommy A. can handle the role. But he stated he will not wait for Lou to sign him into the season like he did this year. He wants a contract before the season. I say sign him to a 1 year 450K deal as an insurance policy.

If Greene isn't ready He'll be a 7th.....If he is Ready he'll probably be a 7th.

Rafalski, White, Martin, Matvichuk, Hale, Lukowich and Greene. This is a pretty good situation I think.


I think from the Blueline back we are in good shape.

No we aren't.

I can't believe people still don't see the need for a defenseman who skate the puck out of the zone and play the point on the PP.

And no, Albelin does not fit that role.

No we aren't.

I can't believe people still don't see the need for a defenseman who skate the puck out of the zone and play the point on the PP.

And no, Albelin does not fit that role.

It is really not a dire need. A 2nd line Center is a much bigger situation to address. Lukowich can carry the puck out of the zone as can Martin. Rafalski certainly has no issue with this. We could always use another puck carrying defenseman but to go into next season with the defenseman we have is pretty good. I do not see many other teams as sound on the blueline.

It is really not a dire need. A 2nd line Center is a much bigger situation to address. Lukowich can carry the puck out of the zone as can Martin. Rafalski certainly has no issue with this. We could always use another puck carrying defenseman but to go into next season with the defenseman we have is pretty good. I do not see many other teams as sound on the blueline.

I like Lukowich, and think he's a good defenseman for his price tag, but he does not carry the puck out of the zone with ANY consistency.

Martin does it occasionally. I am confident he will progress into a very good d-man with the puck, but right now he lacks some confidence in that area it seems.

I agree, Rafalski does it well.

So, basically we have one d-man who does it well, and another who is ok at it. That does not get us by in the new NHL. Our inability to skate the puck out of the zone was shown by Carolina's forechecking. We would always get caught in our own end because we didn't have enough guys who could quickly get it out of there. This IS a dire need. I would say a PP QB isn't as dire a need, but it's still important and should be addressed.

And I'm not really suggesting that we get rid of any d-men. We can just sign one, and Greene can progress nicely in Lowell for a season. Have Matvichuk/Lukowich/Hale rotate, and if Hale really starts to do well, trade one of Lukowich or Matvichuk. I think this makes our d much more versatile and gives us some good balance.

White-Martin
Matvichuk-Rafalski
Lukowich-Spacek (let's say)
Hale

Our lack of a puck-moving D is a glaring weakness. It was really exposed by Carolina, and will be by other good forechecking teams unless we address it. Plus, it would also be nice to add some offense from the backline.

And I'm not really suggesting that we get rid of any d-men. We can just sign one, and Greene can progress nicely in Lowell for a season. Have Matvichuk/Lukowich/Hale rotate, and if Hale really starts to do well, trade one of Lukowich or Matvichuk. I think this makes our d much more versatile and gives us some good balance.I say that Greene doesn't need a year in the American League. He was a much better defenseman his senior year than either Martin or Hale and they had very respectable rookie campaigns going directly from the NCAA to the NHL.

The "new" NHL isn't that new. It is mainly a stricter enforcement of the rules. It is not like the forecheckers were allowed to grab the attacking team like they way players would during a big brawl in the 1970's or 1970's. But I don't disagree with you on the need for better breakouts on the Devils part.

I wish our Greene was Matt Greene from Edmonton. Man I like that Kid so much!

I wish our Greene was Matt Greene from Edmonton. Man I like that Kid so much!

He will be a good one, but had some penalty problems last night. The guy I would love to add is Pisani; he has second line potential or would be a great addition to Maddog and Pando. The Italian national soccer team can use him with his shot and he would be able to play for them too, since he's also an Italian citizen. However, I doubt the Oilers will let the hometown kid leave.

I say that Greene doesn't need a year in the American League. He was a much better defenseman his senior year than either Martin or Hale and they had very respectable rookie campaigns going directly from the NCAA to the NHL.


Martin and Hale didn't play in their senior years. They signed before they reached their senior years. They signed after their junior years. Still, Greene should be a good one, at the very least a solid third pair puck carrier.

I wish our Greene was Matt Greene from Edmonton. Man I like that Kid so much!


I am pretty sure I read somewhere they are brothers.

I wish our Greene was Matt Greene from Edmonton. Man I like that Kid so much!

That's called a man crush.

That's called a man crush.


Shut up

Elias is telling Czech press that he's hired Walsh/Octagon.

http://www.deniksport.cz/clanek463411.htm

I'm afraid Elias is a goner folks, he wants $8 Mill and Lou won't and shouldn't give it to him.

I'm afraid Elias is a goner folks, he wants $8 Mill and Lou won't and shouldn't give it to him.

I agree, I'm sure Lou gave him some sort of hometown offer before he hired an agent so that it would save Elias agent fees thus making the offer that much more attractive but now that he has hired a power broker you know he's swinging for the fences and I don't think Lou could match it even if he wanted to without throwing the team balance all out of whack.

I agree, I'm sure Lou gave him some sort of hometown offer before he hired an agent so that it would save Elias agent fees thus making the offer that much more attractive but now that he has hired a power broker you know he's swinging for the fences and I don't think Lou could match it even if he wanted to without throwing the team balance all out of whack.

I happen to also agree. $8 Million would tie the Devils hands. All I can say is that we keep losing key guys and still draft near the bottom. I guess that's a good thing. :shakehead

I agree, I'm sure Lou gave him some sort of hometown offer before he hired an agent so that it would save Elias agent fees thus making the offer that much more attractive but now that he has hired a power broker you know he's swinging for the fences and I don't think Lou could match it even if he wanted to without throwing the team balance all out of whack.
I'm just curious who can, even if would consider the Rangers I don't think they would be willing to give him that amount of cash.

The one team that might be interested in Elias is the Caps, from what I understand they have plenty of cap space and playing with AO could be intriguing for Elias, plus they are not really that far away to being a playoff contender, espicially if you put Elias on the team.

I agree..Patrik is most likely gone unless he accepts less from us...but with the new agents, I doubt it. Good luck to Patrik.no hard feelings. Thanks for the 2 cups

I wouldn't be sold that he is gone. He said that he was going to hire an agent. It's not like the parties have had negotiations that fell apart, so Elias went and hired representation.

Octagon's hockey division is headed by former NHLer Brian Lawton. Lawton was born in New Brunswick, NJ and grew up Cuberland, Rhode Island. Brian's father Richard worked for the Providence Journal-Bulletin. Let's hope Lou Lamoriello was nice to Mr. Lawton while both men worked in Providence.

I happen to also agree. $8 Million would tie the Devils hands. All I can say is that we keep losing key guys and still draft near the bottom. I guess that's a good thing. :shakeheadMoney Puck!

However, unlike Oakland A's Billy Beane, Lou Lamoriello has a few championship rings.

I'm just curious who can, even if would consider the Rangers I don't think they would be willing to give him that amount of cash.

The one team that might be interested in Elias is the Caps, from what I understand they have plenty of cap space and playing with AO could be intriguing for Elias, plus they are not really that far away to being a playoff contender, espicially if you put Elias on the team.

I'm sure the NYR's would love to have him and Patty may be interested due to the whole Czech thing and not having to uproot himself from the area but I don't see us giving him close to what he'd probrably belooking for anyway plus we have bigger needs like a #1 dman and #2 center.

Washington sounds like an interesting scenario but I think it will be a team out west that breaks the bank for Patty.

Washington sounds like an interesting scenario but I think it will be a team out west that breaks the bank for Patty.
Well it can't be the Ducks, they already broke their bank for Neidermeyer, plus they have a young crop of good players they will need to focus on keeping in the future.

The Kings could be a possiblity but I have no clue what their cap situation is amd I can't imagine Elias ever being interested in playing in Arizona.

And San Jose, I'm sure they have to be near the cap or will be in the future.

When you think about it, if Elias wants that kind of cash, it's probably not going to be with a contender.

Well it can't be the Ducks, they already broke their bank for Neidermeyer, plus they have a young crop of good players they will need to focus on keeping in the future.

The Kings could be a possiblity but I have no clue what their cap situation is amd I can't imagine Elias ever being interested in playing in Arizona.

And San Jose, I'm sure they have to be near the cap or will be in the future.

When you think about it, if Elias wants that kind of cash, it's probably not going to be with a contender.

The Kings play in Arizona???

I think everyone is really going to be surprised. I think Elias will get 8 million from the Devils. This does understandably mean one of Gomez, Gionta will not be Devils longterm and Langenbrunner could sign elsewhere but Elias has led this team in scoring every season. This is the type of player teams build around. Granted our best player wears the most padding and stands in the crease, Elias is clearly our most valuable offensive weapon.

I think Elias and Gionta will remain and possible Langenbrunner will resign or sign elsewhere and Gomez will take a 1 year QA or be traded.

Think about it. Lets say Gomez and Langenbrunner were on another team. Would you trade Elias for both of them? I wouldn't. That is how good he is.

The Kings play in Arizona???
Read it again, I was killing two birds with one stone.

Read it again, I was killing two birds with one stone.

my fault, sorry

my fault, sorry
No biggie. :)

My opinion, for what it's worth, which is not very much... I don't know Elias personally, though I like the personality he projects quite a lot, and of course the way he plays. I'm not really a fan of the Devils, so I don't know a whole lot about team dynamics or anything. But...

I don't really think Elias is looking for $8M. If anything, he just wants to hear a few other teams say that they'd be willing to pay him that.

I think he's looking for a total package -- a team that's competitive, a location that he likes, people he likes to play with, a "decent" salary.

He's been "underpaid" most of his career. Still, he manages to scrounge together enough money to go to the Euro and World Cups, Monaco Grand Prixs, concerts, plays, wear expensive clothes, eat gourmet food. He just went through something that could be considered a near-death experience; at the very least, he had a lot of time to sit around and contemplate the meaning of his life. At the end of it, I don't think the answer he came up with was money.

Of course he'll want to get paid, and that may end up being the tie-breaker between two teams that otherwise come out pretty equal in his mind. But mostly, I think he just wants to do the thing that's going to make him happiest, make him enjoy life the most. He's had many happy years in New Jersey, so I don't think it should be a foregone conclusion that he's gone.

Anyway, that's the sense I get off of the few things he's said to the press about all this, and from my general perception of him as a person. I don't blame players for going after the money (I root for the Leafs; for many years I encouraged it ;)), but I just don't see this being about that. Of course, I could be totally off base.

It'll be interesting to see what happens. I'm a big Havlat fan, so paying attention to Elias is par for the course.

Edit: Er, and if as a non-fan I didn't get the memo on being full of doom and gloom so that if it happens it won't be so bad/if it doesn't happen it'll be awesome, I sincerely apologize. :)

The one team that might be interested in Elias is the Caps, from what I understand they have plenty of cap space and playing with AO could be intriguing for Elias, plus they are not really that far away to being a playoff contender, espicially if you put Elias on the team.

Both Elias and Ovechkin are left wingerss, so I don't see how they would play together really. Also, Elias and Ovechkin are both franchise forwards who do it all, so it doesn't make the Capitals a better team at all. Washington needs a #1 defenseman a hell of a lot more than another 40 goal scorer.

Lou will give Elias whatever he wants. Patty is staying in the Swamp. Another decade and #26 will be up there with #3 and #4.

Both Elias and Ovechkin are left wingerss, so I don't see how they would play together really. Also, Elias and Ovechkin are both franchise forwards who do it all, so it doesn't make the Capitals a better team at all. Washington needs a #1 defenseman a hell of a lot more than another 40 goal scorer.

I never implied they would be on the same line, that would actually be foolish to do since they are in some ways similiar players, but they would perform havoc together on the PP.


Lou will give Elias whatever he wants. Patty is staying in the Swamp. Another decade and #26 will be up there with #3 and #4.

I don't think Lou would ever give him $8 Mill, I don't buy into Lou will give him whatever he wants, not at all.

My opinion, for what it's worth, which is not very much... I don't know Elias personally, though I like the personality he projects quite a lot, and of course the way he plays. I'm not really a fan of the Devils, so I don't know a whole lot about team dynamics or anything. But...

I don't really think Elias is looking for $8M. If anything, he just wants to hear a few other teams say that they'd be willing to pay him that.

I think he's looking for a total package -- a team that's competitive, a location that he likes, people he likes to play with, a "decent" salary.

He's been "underpaid" most of his career. Still, he manages to scrounge together enough money to go to the Euro and World Cups, Monaco Grand Prixs, concerts, plays, wear expensive clothes, eat gourmet food. He just went through something that could be considered a near-death experience; at the very least, he had a lot of time to sit around and contemplate the meaning of his life. At the end of it, I don't think the answer he came up with was money.

Of course he'll want to get paid, and that may end up being the tie-breaker between two teams that otherwise come out pretty equal in his mind. But mostly, I think he just wants to do the thing that's going to make him happiest, make him enjoy life the most. He's had many happy years in New Jersey, so I don't think it should be a foregone conclusion that he's gone.

Anyway, that's the sense I get off of the few things he's said to the press about all this, and from my general perception of him as a person. I don't blame players for going after the money (I root for the Leafs; for many years I encouraged it ;)), but I just don't see this being about that. Of course, I could be totally off base.

It'll be interesting to see what happens. I'm a big Havlat fan, so paying attention to Elias is par for the course.

Edit: Er, and if as a non-fan I didn't get the memo on being full of doom and gloom so that if it happens it won't be so bad/if it doesn't happen it'll be awesome, I sincerely apologize. :)
I think that sounds like a pretty good analysis. And I really believe he'll be back in a Devils uniform next season, but I think (like you said) we're all preparing for the worst in case he does leave.

Here's my take on this Elias situation, he can't ask Lou for 8 million and then expect the team to contend for the cup, not possible. If he leaves a few smart moves can keep us in the playoffs at the very least. One, I would prefer Pisani but doubt that the Oilers let him walk, hometown boy and possible Stanley Cup hero. So, instead we sign Radek Dvorak, he has good size, good speed & skill and is defensively responsible. I believe playing with Gomez and Gionta he can score thirty goals. I know he's not putting up many points in the playoffs, but he recently returned from a injury.

Now, Lou keeps stating he want's a center, there aren't many out there. Arnott, Weight, Greg Johnson, a few others I'm not crazy about and there's an original Devil Alyn McCauley. I know he was more of a 3rd line center and as battled injuries since his Toronto days. However, for one year until Parise is ready to take over, I would consider him, he's defensively responsible and has great character and should come cheap compared to some others. Although in all honesty I really haven't followed his career with San Jose. He would also be insurance if Gomez leaves the following season. By then hopefully Zajac and Parise should be ready to take over the 1st and 2nd line center jobs.

Then we add a puck moving defensemen, I'll just throw out the names Kuba or Spacek, although Kuba is younger at thirty. And let's trade Lucowhich back to Tampa for a 3rd? He's cheap and the lighting will need back end help.

So here are the lines, plus my surprise player to make the team. I pray!

Dvorak - Gomez - Gionta
Parise - McCauley - Langenbrunner
Pando - Madden - Tallackson
Foster - Brylin - Marshall/ Jannsen

Defense: Rafalski, White, Martin, Kuba or Spacek, Matvichuck, Hale & Greene.

Not a bad team. And just maybe Bergfors comes up after the New Year.

Yea, I know you think I'm crazy because I typed in Foster's name. Hey, the Devils haven't cut him lose yet, so they must see something in the kid. We know he has the talent. I'd like to see him finally have some luck by being healthy and helping the Devils even on the 4th line.

Here's my take on this Elias situation, he can't ask Lou for 8 million and then expect the team to contend for the cup, not possible. If he leaves a few smart moves can keep us in the playoffs at the very least. One, I would prefer Pisani but doubt that the Oilers let him walk, hometown boy and possible Stanley Cup hero. So, instead we sign Radek Dvorak, he has good size, good speed & skill and is defensively responsible. I believe playing with Gomez and Gionta he can score thirty goals. I know he's not putting up many points in the playoffs, but he also recently returned from a injury.

Now, Lou keeps stating he want's a center, there aren't many out there. Arnott, Weight, Greg Johnson and an original Devil Alyn McCauley. I know he was more of a 3rd line center and as battled injuries since his Toronto days. However, for one year until Parise is ready to take over, I would consider him, he's defensively responsible and has great character and should come cheap compared to some others. Although in all honesty I really haven't followed his career with San Jose. And he would be insurance if Gomez leaves the following season. By then hopefully Zajac and Parise should be ready to take over the 1st and 2nd line center jobs.

Then we add a puck moving defensemen, I'll just throw out the names Kuba or Spacek, although Kuba is younger at thirty. And let's trade Lucowhich back to Tampa for a 3rd? He's cheap and the lighting will need back end help.

So here are the lines, plus my surprise player to make the team. I pray!

Dvorak - Gomez - Gionta
Parise - McCauley - Langenbrunner
Pando - Madden - Tallackson
Foster - Brylin - Marshall/ Jannsen

Defense: Rafalski, White, Martin, Kuba or Spacek, Matvichuck, Hale & Greene.

Not a bad team. And just maybe Bergfors comes up after the New Year.
Not a bad plan and it will probably make cap sense. I doubt we see Foster though, that ship may have sailed. We'd probably see Ryznar in that slot instead with him and Janssen in and out of the lineup.

I had initial doubts at Dvorak, because he was a part of some of those awful Ranger teams, but, to be honest, I liked him in Edmonton. I don't know if this team would win the cup but we'd make the playoffs.

Not a bad plan and it will probably make cap sense. I doubt we see Foster though, that ship may have sailed. We'd probably see Ryznar in that slot instead with him and Janssen in and out of the lineup.

I had initial doubts at Dvorak, because he was a part of some of those awful Ranger teams, but, to be honest, I liked him in Edmonton. I don't know if this team would win the cup but we'd make the playoffs.


Well, if Patrick leaves, it will be up to Lou to spend that money wisely. And wouldn't it be great for Foster to finally have a chance to play in the NHL. It's unbelievable how much bad luck this kid has had. As long as the Devils keep him, they must believe he still has a chance.

Parise - McCauley - Langenbrunner.


No way does McCauley fit on the secind line. He is like another Halpern or Madden type of player and we don't need this. If Elias Leaves expect to see the Devils sign Arnott and resign Gomez and Gionta to long term deals.

I don't understand all this talk of $8million. I just read under the new terms of the salary cap, no one can make any higher than 7.4-7.8 million.

Here it is:
No player can earn more than 20 percent of the team salary cap. In 2005-06, that means a maximum individual salary of about $7.4-$7.8 million.

From: http://proicehockey.about.com/od/thenewnhl/a/salary_cap_expl.htm

I don't understand all this talk of $8million. I just read under the new terms of the salary cap, no one can make any higher than 7.4-7.8 million.

Here it is:
No player can earn more than 20 percent of the team salary cap. In 2005-06, that means a maximum individual salary of about $7.4-$7.8 million.

From: http://proicehockey.about.com/od/thenewnhl/a/salary_cap_expl.htm


Cap is going up to 44 million, do 20 percent of that and you get the new max.........8.8 million

The problem with putting rookies in the lineup is that they will be eligible for free-agency at a really young age. There best years could likely be spent elsewhere.

If a team allows a player to mature in the minors, that team is going to get most of the player’s best years.

No way does McCauley fit on the secind line. He is like another Halpern or Madden type of player and we don't need this. If Elias Leaves expect to see the Devils sign Arnott and resign Gomez and Gionta to long term deals.

My point was McCauley as a one year fill-in. Arnott will want between 4 & 5 million. I rather give that type money to Gomez. My way we also might have the ability to add three players, with Arnott we probably sign only two. However, I wouldn't mind having Arnott back either.

The problem with putting rookies in the lineup is that they will be eligible for free-agency at a really young age. There best years could likely be spent elsewhere.

If a team allows a player to mature in the minors, that team is going to get most of the player’s best years.
For all our young players free agency begins either at 27 or after their seventh year in the NHL playing a certain number of games. None of our draftees are coming into the lineup at 18 so if they are late season callups in their second year and regulars in their third year we probably won't shorten the length of their restricted free agency.

No way does McCauley fit on the secind line. He is like another Halpern or Madden type of player and we don't need this. If Elias Leaves expect to see the Devils sign Arnott and resign Gomez and Gionta to long term deals.
I don't understand why people want Arnott if Elias leaves. Arnott is big but he never played like a big guy, he is okay on faceoffs, and he floated in Dallas until his contract year...he's almost guaranteed to be overpaid.

I don't understand why people want Arnott if Elias leaves. Arnott is big but he never played like a big guy, he is okay on faceoffs, and he floated in Dallas until his contract year...he's almost guaranteed to be overpaid.

I agree. Arnott was great for his time. His time is over, and he didn't leave on good terms either.

The key to success is going to be drafting well, maybe occasionally getting a role player in trade or free agency.

We have a lot of solid-looking prospects in the system, they gotta get playing time this year. I'd like to see a second line composed entirely of "the future."

Saw the title of this thread and "any news on Elias"

Yeah there is..........


He is most likley signing with a new team this summer!

Saw the title of this thread and "any news on Elias"

Yeah there is..........


He is most likley signing with a new team this summer!
Really? Then why did he say this (http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5MzU4OTkmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2):
If it's right, I want to stay, obviously. It's just that I'm in a situation that I can really take advantage of. We'll see. That doesn't mean that I'm going to use it to my advantage. This organization gave me a lot of good things, positive things in my life. I'm happy where I'm at and I owe something to this organization.
Sounds like a guy who was pretty happy with the Devils. I'm not saying he definitely won't leave, but to say he's "most likely" leaving is going awfully far.

Jason Arnott wasn't that outstanding for the Devils. He played on a line with Elias and Sykora for much his time here, and he averaged 55 Points in his three full seasons as a Devil. He was good, but he wasn't the cog around which the A-Line turned. 2000-01 was his best year as a Devil when he had 55 PTS in 54 GP after holding out.

I don't think Arnott necessarily left on bad terms. He was injured that year and the Devils had a chance to add Nieuwendyk and Langenbrunner. I don't recall animosity on the part of Arnott because of the trade, but I could be wrong.

He may have resentment about contract disputes while with the Devils. He just put up the most points in his career. He will want a big contract, and he's not worth that much.

For all our young players free agency begins either at 27 or after their seventh year in the NHL playing a certain number of games. None of our draftees are coming into the lineup at 18 so if they are late season callups in their second year and regulars in their third year we probably won't shorten the length of their restricted free agency.I thought that they were gradually lowering the age. Twenty-seven isn’t too bad, but it still occures just as they are in the primes of their careers.

He is most likley signing with a new team this summer!Your Pulitzer is in the mail for your brilliant reporting.

Saw the title of this thread and "any news on Elias"

Yeah there is..........


He is most likley signing with a new team this summer!

thanks for the update troll.

thanks for the update troll.

He won't be able to share his infinite wisdom with us for awhile.

He won't be able to share his infinite wisdom with us for awhile.


thanks for the update........you ;)

I did forget that Peca is also UFA. Maybe if Elias leaves we can sign a line of Dvorak, Peca and Pisani. ;)

Here's how i see it,

Although I still think Patty will sign with us, assuming he doesnt, i could see Lou keeping us a contender..........My lines depending on Signings would look like this

Pisani-Gomez-Gionta
Parise-Arnott-Langenbrunner
Tallackson-Madden-Pando
Bergfors-Weimer-Janssen

Rafalski-Spacek
White-Martin
Greene-Hale/Lukowich/Klee (Klee oviously would be a cheap solution)

Broduer
Markenen (Assuming ROloson resign's with Edmonton)

Here's how i see it,

Although I still think Patty will sign with us, assuming he doesnt, i could see Lou keeping us a contender..........My lines depending on Signings would look like this

Pisani-Gomez-Gionta
Parise-Arnott-Langenbrunner
Tallackson-Madden-Pando
Bergfors-Weimer-Janssen

Rafalski-Spacek
White-Martin
Greene-Hale/Lukowich/Klee (Klee oviously would be a cheap solution)

Broduer
Markenen (Assuming ROloson resign's with Edmonton)

as long as we're getting some edmonton players lets get samsonov,pronger, peca, and some other guys too

Parise-Arnott-Langenbrunner"The PAL line"?
They'd better damn well get along!
<(-:**
(Klee oviously would be a cheap solution) Solution to what?
Broduer
Markenen (Assuming ROloson resign's with Edmonton)How much will Markkannnnnenn (whatever!) be worth if Edmonton wins the Cup?

I thought that they were gradually lowering the age. Twenty-seven isn’t too bad, but it still occures just as they are in the primes of their careers.
They are gradually lowering the age, I think it used to be 33(!!!!) but by the end of next year it will be 27, which is why Gomez will be available.

You're right though, if we play guys too young they'll be eligible sooner. A guy like Crosby will hit UFA status at age 25.

Really? Then why did he say this (http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5MzU4OTkmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2):

Sounds like a guy who was pretty happy with the Devils. I'm not saying he definitely won't leave, but to say he's "most likely" leaving is going awfully far.


Niedermayer said VERY, VERY Similar things.

Some Niedermayer Quotes from Memorey:

"If I made to feel Wanted I will remain a Devil"

"I feel like I am a Devil...Its the only Team I've ever known"

Niedermayers public quotes all pointed that he would stay in NJ and his opinion seemed to changed over night....Go back and read all his quotes from the lockout and the summer before He signed elsewhere.

What these guys say today is meaningless........I would venture to guess Not many of us here have ever been faced with a 25 to 35 million dollor personal decision.

Here's how i see it,

Pisani-Gomez-Gionta

Markenen



Why would the Devil say a goalie?????


Pisani is an Edmonton Kid who obviously love playing and living in his home town.....There is probably a better chance the Devils coaxing Mario Lemiuex out of retirement to play for them than the Devil signing Pisani

Here's how i see it,

Although I still think Patty will sign with us, assuming he doesnt, i could see Lou keeping us a contender..........My lines depending on Signings would look like this

Pisani-Gomez-Gionta
Parise-Arnott-Langenbrunner
Tallackson-Madden-Pando
Bergfors-Weimer-Janssen

Rafalski-Spacek
White-Martin
Greene-Hale/Lukowich/Klee (Klee oviously would be a cheap solution)

Broduer
Markenen (Assuming ROloson resign's with Edmonton)Why on Earth would Pisani leave his hometown of Edmonton. NBC did a feature on him during Game 6, and Bill Clement (or maybe one of the other guys) added that Pisani has only spent six total years of his life away from home, four years at Providence College and two years in the minors.

Interestingly, Fernando Pisani has duel citizenship, Canadian and Italian. He was asked why he didn't play for Italy in the Olympics, and he said it was because he would have to play two years in Italy to be allowed to represent the Italian National Team.

Why on Earth would Markenen want to play only 15 games in New Jersey after showing that he can play well in the Finals? Also, why would you want him just because he played well in four or five games, even if they are in the Finals? There is a reason that the Oilers went out and got Roloson from Minnesota.

Also, Matvichuk had surgery on his back which should be healed by camp, is under contract with the Devils next year and played really well for the Devils from January through injuring his back in March.

I did forget that Peca is also UFA. Maybe if Elias leaves we can sign a line of Dvorak, Peca and Pisani. ;)

Here is what those three did during the regular season.
PLAYER GP G A PTS
Pisani 80 18 19 37
Peca 71 9 14 23
Dvorak 64 8 20 28

Pisani has put up really good numbers during the playoffs, and Peca has been great both ways in the playoffs, but they didn't have great regular seasons, especially Peca.

Here are their respective playoff numbers, PLAYER GP G A PTS
Pisani 23 13 4 17
Peca 23 6 5 11
Dvorak 15 0 2 2

I recently posted a Gomez for Havlat trade to keep Elias here. I'm starting to believe that hockey writers really do surf the HF Board to come up with some of this stuff when they can't come up with anything on their own.

http://www.nypost.com/sports/elias_and_havlat_could_be_package_deal_sports_larr y_brooks.htm

05-24-2006, 12:49 PM · #6
Brooklyndevil
Registered User

Havlat still has another year on his contract. Unless Lou works out a deal with Ottawa like you take our RFA in Gomez and will take yours, I can't see that happening this year. Then we would need a center, unless Elias moves to the middle. This is all very far fetched.

I recently posted a Gomez for Havlat trade to keep Elias here. I'm starting to believe that hockey writers really do surf the HF Board to come up with some of this stuff when they can't come up with anything on their own.

http://www.nypost.com/sports/elias_and_havlat_could_be_package_deal_sports_larr y_brooks.htm

cycleandshoot is Larry Brooks.

cycleandshoot is Larry Brooks.What makes you say that? It must be when someone ripped Brooks and cycleandshoot said, "Oh, I don't know about that; Brooks is very handsome and extremely clever."

What makes you say that? It must be when someone ripped Brooks and cycleandshoot said, "Oh, I don't know about that; Brooks is very handsome and extremely clever."

I dunno whether that is sarcasm towards me or not.

Why on Earth would Markenen want to play only 15 games in New Jersey after showing that he can play well in the Finals?

He wouldn't. Markkanen is signed for next year to play with the Oilers.

I recently posted a Gomez for Havlat trade to keep Elias here. I'm starting to believe that hockey writers really do surf the HF Board to come up with some of this stuff when they can't come up with anything on their own.

http://www.nypost.com/sports/elias_and_havlat_could_be_package_deal_sports_larr y_brooks.htm
Reminds me of all the Forsberg and Naslund want to play together talk after the lockout. Sounds nice but unless one of them wants to take a paycut, unlikely, it's not going to happen.

I dunno whether that is sarcasm towards me or not.No. It was supposed to be a harmless joke inspired by your comment.

It would be funny if cycleandshoot was Larry Brooks and posted glowing things about Brooks.

No. It was supposed to be a harmless joke inspired by your comment.

It would be funny if cycleandshoot was Larry Brooks and posted glowing things about Brooks.


Ah, gotcha! You live to fight another day then Puddy :D

The good news is that Luongo is available and from reading all the team threads, every team seems to want him. Just maybe they'll leave Elias alone. ;)

I just want us to sign Elias so that we don't have to put up with some idiotic headline from Everson or Brooks like "Devils' Czech Bounces".
}:-(>

I just want us to sign Elias so that we don't have to put up with some idiotic headline from Everson or Brooks like "Devils' Czech Bounces".
}:-(>


Damnit, don't give them any ideas for headlines since they probably get all their material from this board.

Although I have to say, that's exactly what I'd epect from them.

http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5NTExOTAmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5NTExOTAmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2
Good stuff. I'm glad to hear Lou say "We're going to do everything we can to sign Patrik" - hopefully they can get a deal worked out!

http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5NTExOTAmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

Potentially good news. Niedermayer didn't sit and talk much.

I gotta admit, I am feeling a little bit better about all this.

I gotta admit, I am feeling a little bit better about all this.

As long as he doesn't cost us Gionta for Havlat, I think Patty likes Gionta so that won't happen. If Havlat wants to play with Elias he can do so next year when we will have cap space.

As long as he doesn't cost us Gionta for Havlat, I think Patty likes Gionta so that won't happen. If Havlat wants to play with Elias he can do so next year when we will have cap space.
You know if Lou can find a way to keep the whole EGG line through this cap mess of his, when 2008 kicks around we are going to have a TON of cap space to work with.

Anything's possible.

You know if Lou can find a way to keep the whole EGG line through this cap mess of his, when 2008 kicks around we are going to have a TON of cap space to work with.

Anything's possible.

exactly, a lot of bloated contracts are gone. If you notice down south he is tight lipped on buyouts......he'd usually say no.......I think he'll either A) not pay anything or B) buy out.

Does anyone know when we'll find out the status of the Malakhov contract. Geez, I hope we're not stuck with it. If we only have to buy out Elmo, we're in pretty good cap shape.

Does anyone know when we'll find out the status of the Malakhov contract. Geez, I hope we're not stuck with it. If we only have to buy out Elmo, we're in pretty good cap shape.
I think were stuck with them and they are BIG contracts.

Probably not one of Lou's finest moments.

exactly, a lot of bloated contracts are gone. If you notice down south he is tight lipped on buyouts......he'd usually say no.......I think he'll either A) not pay anything or B) buy out.
I think he got rid of the small contracts, but the M&M boys look like they are still on the books.

I think were stuck with them and they are BIG contracts.

Probably not one of Lou's finest moments.

I was afraid that might be the case.

I was afraid that might be the case.


well a hit of 1.35 is better than 3.6 and 3.5.........we save a lot of money doing it that way. I say buy em out if we're stuck........even if we get 2.5 million on the cap for the next two years that's fine, we still save like 4 million dollars.

well a hit of 1.35 is better than 3.6 and 3.5.........we save a lot of money doing it that way. I say buy em out if we're stuck........even if we get 2.5 million on the cap for the next two years that's fine, we still save like 4 million dollars.
So how much of a hit will we have to take on this year for both contracts?

So how much of a hit will we have to take on this year for both contracts?

I heard the # is 1.35 for each contract....... so 2.7 million, and that sure is a helluva lot better than 7.2 million.

I heard the # is 1.35 for each contract....... so 2.7 million, and that sure is a helluva lot better than 7.2 million.
Oh man, it would be great to have no hit at all, but if it's $2.7 Mill that's not exactly the end of the world as some non-Devils fans would make it out to be.

I heard the # is 1.35 for each contract....... so 2.7 million, and that sure is a helluva lot better than 7.2 million.
Where did you hear that number? That sounds way too low.

Where did you hear that number? That sounds way too low.


It was posted around here somewhere.......I can't remember where my man.

As long as he doesn't cost us Gionta for Havlat, I think Patty likes Gionta so that won't happen. If Havlat wants to play with Elias he can do so next year when we will have cap space.

I think Gomez would go for Havlat more than Gionta. Gomez holds more value in a trade because he is a center and just came off a career year. Plus, Lou loves Gionta and he might be the best bargain player in the league. Gionta also said he doesn't plan on going to arbitration because he "loves it here." I wouldn't be shocked to see Gio sign for 2.5/year, as low as that sounds. Gomez, on the other hand, unless his attitude has changed, is probably gonna flee next summer as a UFA. I love Gomer, but if it ensures Elias re-ups with us, he might have to be traded. Still... if Gomer is dealt, I sure hope Zajac can surprise us all and pull a Gomez--- skipping Albany/Lowell to center the second line.

Elias-Parise-Havlat
Tallackson-Zajac-Gionta????

We'll see.

Where did you hear that number? That sounds way too low.

Remember that both cap hits would be spread out over two seasons.

Remember that both cap hits would be spread out over two seasons.

Which would still be worth it.

Oh man, it would be great to have no hit at all, but if it's $2.7 Mill that's not exactly the end of the world as some non-Devils fans would make it out to be.

Actually it would be $2.343 million per.Buyouts are very simple to figure out.2/3 the remaining value paid out over twice the term.2/3 of $7.1 million is $4.686 million paid out over two years-$2.343 million per

However,even if the Devils buyout both players,the $7.1 million is likely still going to count against the cap.The Leafs are considering buying out Tie Domi but his $1.25 million will count against the cap

Which would still be worth it.

Definitely, considering I wouldn't rule out the possibility that the cap goes up again after next season beyond the 44 million it will be at now.

Actually it would be $2.343 million per.Buyouts are very simple to figure out.2/3 the remaining value paid out over twice the term.2/3 of $7.1 million is $4.686 million paid out over two years-$2.343 million per

However,even if the Devils buyout both players,the $7.1 million is likely still going to count against the cap.The Leafs are considering buying out Tie Domi but his $1.25 million will count against the cap

Can you supply us with a link regarding buyouts of players over 35, where it states that even when buying out a player you still get hit with the full salary cap?

By TOM GULITTI
STAFF WRITER

BRIEFS: Lamoriello would not comment on whether he intends to buy out any players before the June 30 league deadline. Teams can buy out players' contracts at two thirds of the total remaining value with the salary cap hit being spread out over double the seasons remaining. Alexander Mogilny ($3.5 million) and Vladimir Malakhov ($3.6 million) are the most likely candidates because the full value of their contracts, which have one year left, would count against the cap even if they retire.

The article is a bit vague. However, Gulitti does give the impression that the cap hit would be at 2/3 of their salaries if bought-out, not the full amount.


http://www.bergen.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5NTExOTAmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

Can you supply us with a link regarding buyouts of players over 35, where it states that even when buying out a player you still get hit with the full salary cap?

I've seen this mentioned a number of times by Leafs fans.

If Domi is in that boat than Malakhov and Moginly are as well.

Only thing we can do is wait and see, since no one official has said anything, really. Just a bunch of reporters speculating.

I've seen this mentioned a number of times by Leafs fans.

If Domi is in that boat than Malakhov and Moginly are as well.

Only thing we can do is wait and see, since no one official has said anything, really. Just a bunch of reporters speculating.


Leaf fans?

I've seen this mentioned a number of times by Leafs fans.

If Domi is in that boat than Malakhov and Moginly are as well.

Only thing we can do is wait and see, since no one official has said anything, really. Just a bunch of reporters speculating.

Hi, first post but I think I can shed some light on this matter. It isn't just the reporters speculating, at least it's a little more than that. I wrote to Brooks and asked him why, since the clause in question about players who sign multi-year deals at age 35 and older doesn't say a word about buyouts, you can't just appply the buyout rules to them and move on?

He answered me with something fairly interesting. He told me he asked the NHL the same thing. They told him the "35 and older" clause supersedes everything else in the CBA, including the buyout rules, even though it doesn't mention anything about buyouts. He was pretty much floored. He doesn't understand it, I mean, he knows why they are taking the stand, they want to stop teams from doing exactly what we are talking about here, clearing cap room so they can spend more, but there doesn't seem to be a foundation in the legal language of the CBA to say that the clause supersedes everything else, and that it can supersede something it doesn't even mention, which is buyouts.

The buyout would get them around the legal basis of the "35 and older" clause which is that the player is under the same contract he signed at that specific age, because the buyout breaks the contract and re-arranges both the payment obligations and the cap hit. That's exactly what the NHL doesn't want. It's interesting to note that this isn't a fight between the NHL and the NHLPA, but a fight between the NHL and it's member clubs, who want to define the CBA in different ways.

It should all hit the fan if NJ tries to buy out the M&M boys and the league says no, expect grievances to be filed immediately and the whole thing to wind up before an arbirator. Also, note that Colorado may be buying out Turgeon and there is the Domi situation in Toronto. NJ will not be alone.

Welcome and thanks for the info! The next couple months will be very interesting

It should all hit the fan if NJ tries to buy out the M&M boys and the league says no, expect grievances to be filed immediately and the whole thing to wind up before an arbirator. Also, note that Colorado may be buying out Turgeon and there is the Domi situation in Toronto. NJ will not be alone.
And something Lou is not afraid to do, take it to the courts/arbirators and better yet for us something he excells in when he does take these actions.

Hi, first post but I think I can shed some light on this matter. It isn't just the reporters speculating, at least it's a little more than that. I wrote to Brooks and asked him why, since the clause in question about players who sign multi-year deals at age 35 and older doesn't say a word about buyouts, you can't just appply the buyout rules to them and move on?

He answered me with something fairly interesting. He told me he asked the NHL the same thing. They told him the "35 and older" clause supersedes everything else in the CBA, including the buyout rules, even though it doesn't mention anything about buyouts. He was pretty much floored. He doesn't understand it, I mean, he knows why they are taking the stand, they want to stop teams from doing exactly what we are talking about here, clearing cap room so they can spend more, but there doesn't seem to be a foundation in the legal language of the CBA to say that the clause supersedes everything else, and that it can supersede something it doesn't even mention, which is buyouts.

The buyout would get them around the legal basis of the "35 and older" clause which is that the player is under the same contract he signed at that specific age, because the buyout breaks the contract and re-arranges both the payment obligations and the cap hit. That's exactly what the NHL doesn't want. It's interesting to note that this isn't a fight between the NHL and the NHLPA, but a fight between the NHL and it's member clubs, who want to define the CBA in different ways.

It should all hit the fan if NJ tries to buy out the M&M boys and the league says no, expect grievances to be filed immediately and the whole thing to wind up before an arbirator. Also, note that Colorado may be buying out Turgeon and there is the Domi situation in Toronto. NJ will not be alone.
Interesting information, but I'm sure Lou (and other) GM's will be taking it to an arbitrator if the league says that. From what I can tell from reading through the CBA, they never state that the 35 and older clause supercedes everything else.

On pages 51 and 251 they talk about buyouts, and on neither page does it specify that you can't apply those rules to players who signed contracts at 35 or older. And on page 190 they talk about the salary cap and how the contracts of players which were signed when they were 35 or older will count against the cap, but again they don't mention that you can't buy out the contract.

So I guess we'll see what happens :dunno:

I still think there's a good chance Lou will get Malakhov's salary off the books, if Malakhov did leave the team without the team's permission and hasn't retired, I'm not sure why the Devils would have to pay him. But again, who knows?

Interesting information, but I'm sure Lou (and other) GM's will be taking it to an arbitrator if the league says that. From what I can tell from reading through the CBA, they never state that the 35 and older clause supercedes everything else.

On pages 51 and 251 they talk about buyouts, and on neither page does it specify that you can't apply those rules to players who signed contracts at 35 or older. And on page 190 they talk about the salary cap and how the contracts of players which were signed when they were 35 or older will count against the cap, but again they don't mention that you can't buy out the contract.

So I guess we'll see what happens :dunno:

I still think there's a good chance Lou will get Malakhov's salary off the books, if Malakhov did leave the team without the team's permission and hasn't retired, I'm not sure why the Devils would have to pay him. But again, who knows?

Ummm...I did mention it would all wind up in front of an arbitrator. These things, however, can't get there until one party actually does the thing the other says they can't. That means one of the clubs is going to have to actually try to buy one of these guys out when the league says they can't. You can't get to an arbitrator any other way.

I agree with what you found in the CBA, it jives with what I found when I read through it and what Brooks himself found, which is why he raised the questions (repeatedly) with the NHL. However, he (repeatedly) got the same answers back from them. They are prepared to take it to arbitration/court. I only put the information up because people were confused as to why there seemed to be nothing more than reporters speculating. There seems to be more than that, and I thought people should know.

The only problem I see with taking it to an arbitrator is that will take some time...time that I'm sure we'd all like to see be spent on trying to sign Elias or a replacement, things Lou probably can't do until he knows where he stands with the cap.

I hate to say it, but I'm already willing to write this season off if it means we keep our core players (EGG) and allows us to ride this cap storm out. Only problem is that I can see the Atlantic being very very competitive in 2007-2008 (Pittsburgh, NYR, Philly as always).

Ummm...I did mention it would all wind up in front of an arbitrator. These things, however, can't get there until one party actually does the thing the other says they can't. That means one of the clubs is going to have to actually try to buy one of these guys out when the league says they can't. You can't get to an arbitrator any other way.

I agree with what you found in the CBA, it jives with what I found when I read through it and what Brooks himself found, which is why he raised the questions (repeatedly) with the NHL. However, he (repeatedly) got the same answers back from them. They are prepared to take it to arbitration/court. I only put the information up because people were confused as to why there seemed to be nothing more than reporters speculating. There seems to be more than that, and I thought people should know.
You know if the CBA is lacking in detail and the best the NHL can do is say this is what their intentions were - Lou is going to clean their clocks come arbitration time.

Ya gotta love it man. :D

The only problem I see with taking it to an arbitrator is that will take some time...time that I'm sure we'd all like to see be spent on trying to sign Elias or a replacement, things Lou probably can't do until he knows where he stands with the cap..

but during this time, i think the devils can act as if they won, similar to how the leafs proceeded with nolan.

Ummm...I did mention it would all wind up in front of an arbitrator. These things, however, can't get there until one party actually does the thing the other says they can't. That means one of the clubs is going to have to actually try to buy one of these guys out when the league says they can't. You can't get to an arbitrator any other way.

I agree with what you found in the CBA, it jives with what I found when I read through it and what Brooks himself found, which is why he raised the questions (repeatedly) with the NHL. However, he (repeatedly) got the same answers back from them. They are prepared to take it to arbitration/court. I only put the information up because people were confused as to why there seemed to be nothing more than reporters speculating. There seems to be more than that, and I thought people should know.
Sorry, I was agreeing with you, I just didn't word that very well.

These next few weeks should be interesting, since doesn't the buyout period end on June 30th? So we'll have to hear some news soon.

but during this time, i think the devils can act as if they won, similar to how the leafs proceeded with nolan.
I think it was easier with the Leafs because they said from the start that they were going to buy out Nolan if the arbitrator ruled against them and the NHL would probably let them.

The question here is not whether the Devils have to buy out M&M, it's whether the CAN, which could make a huge difference in how Lou approaches his summer dealings.

I think it was easier with the Leafs because they said from the start that they were going to buy out Nolan if the arbitrator ruled against them and the NHL would probably let them.

The question here is not whether the Devils have to buy out M&M, it's whether the CAN, which could make a huge difference in how Lou approaches his summer dealings.
If he decides to go with the buyouts, my guess is he will approach it as if he can buy them out. He has a few options if he loses, after all.

Since this is not something that the NHLPA is going to grieve (it's part of the CBA, after all, and the player is going to be paid under at least 2/3 of his current contract) the arbitrator is going to rule eihter that they will be paid the full contract or that they will be bought out at 2/3 of it. What he needs to be sure of is that the hearing is going to be held soon and that the ruling will be delivered soon. Because remember, they can be 10% over the cap (that's $4.4M) until basically opening day. I would guess his case has been prepared already, he had to know this was coming.

So Option 1 is that he gets the ruling and if he loses he deals with whatever he is over the cap by before opening night, just don't go more than $4.4M over. Option 2 is that we have no idea whether Mogilny is medically fit or not. And if he isn't medically fit I don't see what there is stopping NJ from putting him on the "roster", then on long-term IR (off the roster), getting him off the cap, paying him and sending him home.

From today:

Patrik Elias finally has an agent, which means Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello can finally get down to making his pitch to keep the 30-year-old left wing in New Jersey.

Allan Walsh, who also represents Elias' close friend Martin Havlat of Ottawa, confirmed that he was officially hired by Elias last week. Wade Arnott, brother of former Devil Jason Arnott, also had discussions with Elias about representing him.


http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMzMmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY5NTExOTAmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

all this speculation sure is funny :biglaugh:

macauly
arnott
dvorak
...........why not see what bill guerin is up too. or maybe janne ojanen. :handclap:

i dont see elias leaving. as someone made a good point before about his frame of mind after last year. this team has been good to him and wants to make him the most integral part of it beside marty. a pretty great base if u ask me. add to the equation theres a chance havlat could be his winger(in this new nhl thats a good thing) and lou looking for a big center, and with the promising kids comin up. the future looks good, just defense needs a look at. as for trading who for who, im not gonna even begin to guess cuz A-i dunno everyones salaries and i couldnt be arsed to scour the intraweb to find out B- lou knows his shiat, we dont and finally C-i cant do math anyways. at this point, almost anyone is expendable and lou will tie up all the loose ends. and if he wants 8 mil, he can leave. :golfnana:

You know if the CBA is lacking in detail and the best the NHL can do is say this is what their intentions were - Lou is going to clean their clocks come arbitration time.

Ya gotta love it man. :D
I agree.

But Mogilny's '05 NHL stats will have to be countered with his ...insubordination?....poor attitude? ...publicly stating he wished Toronto had made him an offer during the early season doldrums?....his '05-'06 AHL stats?

Wonder if the dirty laundry gets aired in the hearing.

Can you supply us with a link regarding buyouts of players over 35, where it states that even when buying out a player you still get hit with the full salary cap?

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1150408211172&call_pageid=968867503640&col=970081593064&t=TS_Home

In Domi's case, all of his $1.25 million salary for next season would go against the cap because he was 35 when he signed.

The Leafs would actually have to pay him only two thirds of his salary — $833,333 — and they could spread that payment over two years at about $417,000 per year. But under guidelines in the new collective bargaining agreement, the entire $1.25 million goes against the salary cap.

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1150408211172&call_pageid=968867503640&col=970081593064&t=TS_Home

Thanks Ratsgirl. But it still seems like speculation to me at this time.

Thanks Ratsgirl. But it still seems like speculation to me at this time.

In the current of THN with the Hurricanes on the cover,the team reports covered every NHL club's salary cap situation.Rich Chere wrote the Devils have $27 million committed to 14 players with the $7.1 million(counting against the cap) allocated to the M&M boys.In a previous THN salary issue,Chere wrote the Devils could buyout both contracts but he didn't write it in the current issue on the salary cap

Thanks Ratsgirl. But it still seems like speculation to me at this time.

Here is the clause 50.5 B5-page 203 of the CBA

All Player Salary and Bonuses earned in League Year by a Player who is in the second or later year of a multi year SPC which was signed when the player 35 years or older(as of June 30 prior to the League Year in which the SPC is to be effective),but which Player is not on the Club's Active roster,Injured Reserve,Injured Non Roster or Non Roster,and regardless of whether,or where,the Player is playing,except to the extent the Player is playing under his SPC in the minor leagues,in which case only the Player Salary and Bonuses in excess of $100,000 shall count towards the calculation of Averaged Club Salary

Lou didn't think on May 16 the Devils would take any hit for Malakhov's contract in 2006-07

Asked if the Devils would be on the hook for any part of defenseman Vladimir Malakhov's $3.6 million salary next season, Lamoriello said, "No."


http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060517/SPORTS01/605170322/1108

The clause clearly states it doesn't matter what the status of player is or how the player reached that status,it still counts

And you have reports coming out of Colorado just a few days ago that the Avs want to buy out Turgeon, who signed a multi-year deal as a 35-year old this past August. So perhaps they think it can be done.

Maybe now we should wait until a team tries to do it and see what happens when it goes before the arbitrator.

Here is the clause 50.5 B5-page 203 of the CBA

All Player Salary and Bonuses earned in League Year by a Player who is in the second or later year of a multi year SPC which was signed when the player 35 years or older(as of June 30 prior to the League Year in which the SPC is to be effective),but which Player is not on the Club's Active roster,Injured Reserve,Injured Non Roster or Non Roster,and regardless of whether,or where,the Player is playing,except to the extent the Player is playing under his SPC in the minor leagues,in which case only the Player Salary and Bonuses in excess of $100,000 shall count towards the calculation of Averaged Club Salary

Lou didn't think on May 16 the Devils would take any hit for Malakhov's contract in 2006-07



http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060517/SPORTS01/605170322/1108

The clause clearly states it doesn't matter what the status of player is or how the player reached that status,it still counts

As a Ranger fan I know your hoping it still counts but the clause is still vague regarding buyouts. No one knows for sure, but we'll find out shortly. Either way, after this season Rangers fan will have to find something else to hope for inregards to the demise of the Devils. Will survive as usual.

Uh oh, the Kings just freed up a ton of cap space trading Pavel Demitra for a draft pick.

Uh oh, the Kings just freed up a ton of cap space trading Pavel Demitra for a draft pick.

Yeah, because LA is going into full-scale rebuilding mode. The Kings GM implied that yesterday in his interview broadcasted by TSN. The Demitra deal is irrelevant to the Kings' rumored interest in Elias. Elias wants nothing to do with a rebuilding team, and that's what the Kings are going to be the next 2 seasons.

of the over 35 buyout clause?

The financial consideration is 2/3 of the contract. The cap consideration is the full amount of the contract against the cap.