Gomez all but gone..

This article certainly doesn't seem promising. It looks like Gomez won't be returning. To me it's mindboggling how Lou hasn't had any negotiations with him yet.

Gomez unlikely to re-sign (http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1181017710176330.xml&coll=1)

When will this trend ever stop??! We bring up stars into this league and many of them leave as soon as they get the chance. When will we ever sign a noteworthy free agent??!

This article certainly doesn't seem promising. It looks like Gomez won't be returning. To me it's mindboggling how Lou hasn't had any negotiations with him yet.

Gomez unlikely to re-sign (http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1181017710176330.xml&coll=1)

When will this trend ever stop??! We bring up stars into this league and many of them leave as soon as they get the chance. When will we ever sign a noteworthy free agent??!

we kept Elias and Brodeur. That's big.

we kept Elias and Brodeur. That's big.
I was about to say that - I think most of us were jumping with joy when we re-signed Elias last summer (I know I was). And we signed Gio, and gave Marty an extension during the season. You can't keep everybody.

Nothing this article says is really new, Gomez has been saying he'll test the FA market for awhile now.

This article certainly doesn't seem promising. It looks like Gomez won't be returning. To me it's mindboggling how Lou hasn't had any negotiations with him yet.

Gomez unlikely to re-sign (http://www.nj.com/sports/ledger/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1181017710176330.xml&coll=1)

When will this trend ever stop??! We bring up stars into this league and many of them leave as soon as they get the chance. When will we ever sign a noteworthy free agent??!

Trend? From my perspective, the NJD's organization has retained its own UFA players about as well as any team in the league; on par with a team like the Detroit Red Wings. Some players are going to leave regardless of what the organization offers, e.g., the Niedermayer situation with his brother, etc.

Gomez has been clear for awhile that he was going to test the market. Nothing surprising in that update regarding Gomez, IMO.

i think the article is just titled poorly... should read: "Gomez unlikely to re-sign before July 1st"...

we've still got just as much chance to sign Scott as any other team, unless someone can point to a quote from Scott that says otherwise.

Whether we sign Gomez or not, we will be fine. Lou will always find a way....:yo:

Lou has already moved on. Good choice.

In the beginning I thought for sure he'd resign, but now I have mixed feelings....I still am leaning toward him resigning though.

Tell me what's new in the article that we haven't already discussed on this board? Me thinks that Chere has been surfing our site.

Lou has already moved on. Good choice.

I get the same feeling. Lou will go after Drury from day one of free agency. No more waiting around for guys to get back to him.

I get the same feeling. Lou will go after Drury from day one of free agency. No more waiting around for guys to get back to him.

I kind of hope not - Drury will be very, very overpaid I think...

I kind of hope not - Drury will be very, very overpaid I think...

Does. Not. Fit. Playmaking. Center. Role.

The only new note in the same old song we've heard all along is the fact that Lou hasn't tried to negotiate, as of yet, at all, and perhaps the always sensitive Gomez is surprised or upset by that fact.

Pure conjecture, but that is the only thing I could read between the lines. Everything else has been said over and over by Gomez and his people and is nothing new at all. And puts him no closer or farther away from signing. Poorly titled article, meant mostly for headline shock value, which is the usual press B.S.

I get the same feeling. Lou will go after Drury from day one of free agency. No more waiting around for guys to get back to him.


Drury will have his pick of the litter so I wouldn't hold my breath on him.

I think Lou will go with a 2nd tier player and one I think that could pay off for you guys is Mike York because althought he had a terrible year but can be had on the cheap, will likely sign a 1 yr deal to rebuild his worth for the following year and was one of the Isles best players the yr before last and shows reasonable signs that last yr was just a bigtime off year.

I'm not paying Mike York anything over 850k after the year that he's had. Smells like Kozlov 2.0. Yes, I think Lou will actively persue Drury if he becomes available. If an internal option is not available (read: Zajac moves to first line, Parise or Brylin centers the second), then I think there's a chance that the Devils try to land Peca.

I'm not paying Mike York anything over 850k after the year that he's had. Smells like Kozlov 2.0. Yes, I think Lou will actively persue Drury if he becomes available. If an internal option is not available (read: Zajac moves to first line, Parise or Brylin centers the second), then I think there's a chance that the Devils try to land Peca.

You think you'll get enough offense having Zajac and Peca as your 1-2 down the middle?

Not even close.

And like I said with Drury, he will probrably head west and will have his pick of teams to sign with so I wouldn't hold my breath as every teams fans think they'll be able to sign him.

What about Brad Richards?

York is done. He solves none of the problems the Devils need to address. A player like Zubrus is something I could see Lou pursuing. Alot also depends on whether Lou feels Parise is ready to move back to center. The available options open up significantly if he does.

I kind of hope not - Drury will be very, very overpaid I think...

And I agree. I just read in a few articles that Lou will be targeting him.

Drury will have his pick of the litter so I wouldn't hold my breath on him.

I think Lou will go with a 2nd tier player and one I think that could pay off for you guys is Mike York because althought he had a terrible year but can be had on the cheap, will likely sign a 1 yr deal to rebuild his worth for the following year and was one of the Isles best players the yr before last and shows reasonable signs that last yr was just a bigtime off year.


The Devils don't need to get smaller and they do need to get tougher. York isn't an answer. I rather put Parise back at center and sign Bertuzzi for a couple of years.

I'm not paying Mike York anything over 850k after the year that he's had. Smells like Kozlov 2.0. Yes, I think Lou will actively persue Drury if he becomes available. If an internal option is not available (read: Zajac moves to first line, Parise or Brylin centers the second), then I think there's a chance that the Devils try to land Peca.

Yeah, just what we need. Another 3rd line checking center.:help:

If we're going after that "type" of player, bring in Handzus. Perfect Devil player. And I do like Zubrus too. Peca is so 2001.

The Devils don't need to get smaller and they do need to get tougher. York isn't an answer. I rather put Parise back at center and sign Bertuzzi for a couple of years.

if Parise can make the switch without it adversly effecting his game then that is the route to go because I don't think the Dev's will get any of the top end offensive UFA's out there.

And while the Dev's certainly need size are you really prepared to tie up significant cap space with Betuzzi and all his questions marks?

Let's remember that he is a 30+ power forward with back trouble who was limited to a handful of games this year, in other works a major, major risk.

Does. Not. Fit. Playmaking. Center. Role.

Would. Not. Sign. Here. Anyway.

If Drury or any high profile in-their-prime forward UFA *came* to the Devils,
I'd be so shocked, well, I don't know what I'd do. First off, the league office
would vomit. Sad, but true.

You better hope they don't waste time chasing pipe dreams, or Gomez's
replacement will be on par with Vlady and McGills, should he leave.

if Parise can make the switch without it adversly effecting his game then that is the route to go because I don't think the Dev's will get any of the top end offensive UFA's out there.

And while the Dev's certainly need size are you really prepared to tie up significant cap space with Betuzzi and all his questions marks?

Let's remember that he is a 30+ power forward with back trouble who was limited to a handful of games this year, in other works a major, major risk.

I'd rather sign Lindros to a nothing contract than sign Bertuzzi. Well, provided they can find whatever motivated him to play a couple of those games against the 'Nucks,
where he actually sought out other players for the first time since he got run, 7 years ago. And if he gets knocked stupid or picks up one of his many injuries, who cares?

I would like to see the money spend on another offensive defenseman who at least get a be a good setup man on the power play and not make too many mistakes in your own defensive zone which was one of the down falls of the season. You will never replace Scott Niedermeyer though.

if Parise can make the switch without it adversly effecting his game then that is the route to go because I don't think the Dev's will get any of the top end offensive UFA's out there.

And while the Dev's certainly need size are you really prepared to tie up significant cap space with Betuzzi and all his questions marks?

Let's remember that he is a 30+ power forward with back trouble who was limited to a handful of games this year, in other works a major, major risk.

I would only sign him if the price was right and for no more then two years. For me personally, I would prefer for the Devils staying the status qua and try to get into good drafting position for 2008 and maybe wait for the next batch of UFA's. But with the Devils going into a new arena and as long as Lou feels he has a chance of winning with Marty in net, I doubt they go my route. And as for Drury, you're probably right about him going West, however, I've read that Lou will chase him.

if Parise can make the switch without it adversly effecting his game then that is the route to go because I don't think the Dev's will get any of the top end offensive UFA's out there.
I agree, and the lack of any viable second tier centers on the market is worrisome.

And while the Dev's certainly need size are you really prepared to tie up significant cap space with Betuzzi and all his questions marks?

Let's remember that he is a 30+ power forward with back trouble who was limited to a handful of games this year, in other works a major, major risk.
I agree once again, Bertuzzi is completely ineffective these days. He did nothing for Detroit in the playoffs, I wouldn't touch him with a fifty foot pole.
I wish we could pick up someone like Nylander for a year just to fill this hole. I'm not too optimistic for next year seeing as how our offense will have a first line center hole and our defense is actually getting better with the number of depth guys we have.

With the increase in the cap I can see Lou picking up a big name defenseman and that's it really.
Elias (6) Parise (2) Gionta (4)
------ Zajac (1) Langenbrunner (2.8)
Pandolfo (.83) Madden (2.93) Brylin (1.52)
Clarkson (.8) Rest of the 4th and reserve (1.5)
23.4

Hannan (5) Rafalski (5)
White (3) Martin (2.5)
Matvichuk (1.3) Greene (1)
Oduya (.6)
18.4

Brodeur (5.2)
Backup (.5)
5.7

47.5...which leaves anywhere from 1-3.4M (depending on whether the NHLPA invokes the 5% inflation clause) to sign a second line LW.

I wish we could pick up someone like Nylander for a year just to fill this hole. I'm not too optimistic for next year seeing as how our offense will have a first line center hole and our defense is actually getting better with the number of depth guys we have.

With the increase in the cap I can see Lou picking up a big name defenseman and that's it really.
Elias (6) Parise (2) Gionta (4)
------ Zajac (1) Langenbrunner (2.8)
Pandolfo (.83) Madden (2.93) Brylin (1.52)
Clarkson (.8) Rest of the 4th and reserve (1.5)
21.4

Hannan (5) Rafalski (5)
White (3) Martin (2.5)
Matvichuk (1.3) Greene (1)
Oduya (.6)
18.4

Brodeur (5.2)
Backup (.5)
5.7

45.5...which leaves anywhere from 3-5.4M (depending on whether the NHLPA invokes the 5% inflation clause) to sign a second line LW.

Nylander wants a pay-day, though, apparently.

Nylander wants a pay-day, though, apparently.
Yeah I just mean a player like Nylander, preferably one that hasn't been jacking up his point totals by playing with Jagr. ;)

Yeah I just mean a player like Nylander, preferably one that hasn't been jacking up his point totals by playing with Jagr. ;)

That's the problem, there are very few offensive centers available and it seems like everybody in the NHL needs either a 1st or 2nd line center in their lineup so landing one will be very tough as they'll have plenty of suitors and will also command significant $$$.

Being that I don't think the devils will sign any of the 3 big UFA centers (Drury, Briere, Gomez) the only way I wouldn't move Parise to center is if you could sign Handzus. Zubrus I'm not too sure how I feel about, his package of size and skill is def. intriguing. Handzus to me just fits the devils like a glove. This is a guy who put up over 50 points on a line with Brashear and Somik, and has proved that when he plays with skilled players like Havlat, can more than hold his own. He's good defensively, and brings that size that the devils need. You place him between Gio and Elias, and I can def. see him putting up 70 points.

If not, then I'd move Parise to center, considering that there are many more UFA options on the wing. Hartnell is def. one I would look into.

Does. Not. Fit. Playmaking. Center. Role.

Exactly, he's great, and I'd love him on my team as well, but he is not what either of us need at this stage in the game (that is assuming you guys do not re-sign Gomez)


Drury will have his pick of the litter so I wouldn't hold my breath on him.

I think Lou will go with a 2nd tier player and one I think that could pay off for you guys is Mike York because althought he had a terrible year but can be had on the cheap, will likely sign a 1 yr deal to rebuild his worth for the following year and was one of the Isles best players the yr before last and shows reasonable signs that last yr was just a bigtime off year.


As a Flyers fan, I would love to see you guys sign York. Trust me, if you think the three-M's were the worst thing to ever happen to your organization, wait until you see how Mike York "plays" the game.

As for Handzus, he's one of my all-time favorite Flyers and is definitely a "Devils-type-player," but rumor has it he's asking for $4mill per, and as much as I love him, I'm not sure he's worth that much, especially coming off a season-long injury.

Does. Not. Fit. Playmaking. Center. Role.
We don't need a playmaking center. We never have. Elias works best in a role where he can pass as well as being relied on as the shooter. The only season he and Gomez really meshed was the season Gomez was scoring goals. When Gomez isn't scoring they don't work so well together.

We need a centerman who can shoot as well as pass.

ERIC LINDROS :handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap: ERIC LINDROS :handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap:

Does. Not. Fit. Playmaking. Center. Role.
Like CD said, we don't need a pure playmaking center. Arnott was nowhere near the passer that Gomer is, but Elias looked pretty good on a line with him.

What about Brad Richards?
And you think we have cap problems now? And we wouldn't have anywhere near enough assets to get him from Tampa.

And I agree. I just read in a few articles that Lou will be targeting him.
I think Lou will inquire and make a pitch for him, but I don't think he'll overpay for him. He fits the mold of a Devils player to a T, so I'd be surprised if Lou didn't make an offer.

As for Zubrus, he's one of my all-time favorite Flyers and is definitely a "Devils-type-player," but rumor has it he's asking for $4mill per, and as much as I love him, I'm not sure he's worth that much, especially coming off a season-long injury.
Do you mean Handzus? I agree, the injury worries me, but I like the idea of putting a big power forward between Elias and Gio.

We don't need a playmaking center. We never have. Elias works best in a role where he can pass as well as being relied on as the shooter. The only season he and Gomez really meshed was the season Gomez was scoring goals. When Gomez isn't scoring they don't work so well together.

We need a centerman who can shoot as well as pass.

So what are you saying?

Is anybody really surprised at the article?.

Do you mean Handzus? I agree, the injury worries me, but I like the idea of putting a big power forward between Elias and Gio.

No, Zubrus was a Flyer also he was drafted in the 1st round, 15th overall in 1996. I believe he was traded to Montreal for Mark Recchi and a pick or something like that

Is anybody really surprised at the article?.

Only thing that surprised me is that Lou hasn't talked with them yet at all but the rest is the same old song...not even a different beat.

Only thing that surprised me is that Lou hasn't talked with them yet at all but the rest is the same old song...not even a different beat.



I'm not that surprised that they aren't talking because Scott has said all year he was going to test the market.

I'm not that surprised that they aren't talking because Scott has said all year he was going to test the market.

Well I would have thought Lou would tell him here's what we are thinking at least or something. Not that Scott wouldn't still test the market but just to give him an idea of what the Devils are willing to start at. I kind of think that would make Gomer feel more wanted by the Devs.

I don't know this for sure but I think Lou knows Scott isn't coming back and that might be why. Will he throw an offer his way? probably but not until july 1st.

Is anybody really surprised at the article?.
No, Lou didn't open negotiations with Elias until after or very close to July 1st last year.

Gomez is going to test the market no matter what, just like what Elias said last year. Why would Lou want to get an early bid in? That could only serve to drive up the price further. Note: I am not saying Gomez will resign like Elias, only that Lou is treating the situation the same way.

No, Zubrus was a Flyer also he was drafted in the 1st round, 15th overall in 1996. I believe he was traded to Montreal for Mark Recchi and a pick or something like that
No, I know Zubrus was a Flyer, but he's not coming off a season long injury.

No, I know Zubrus was a Flyer, but he's not coming off a season long injury.
Not to mention that I doubt anyone would call Zubrus "one of their all-time favorite Flyers."

So what are you saying?
I'm saying I'll take Gomez back, but he and Elias have never had real chemistry. They've been strugging to develop it for years and were never really successful except for one season - and in that season the main difference was Gomez was able to finish his chances.

But if Gomez is leaving, then we shouldn't be looking for a pure playmaker. We need a center to work with Elias who can take advantage of his passing skills.

I'm saying I'll take Gomez back, but he and Elias have never had real chemistry. They've been strugging to develop it for years and were never really successful except for one season - and in that season the main difference was Gomez was able to finish his chances.

But if Gomez is leaving, then we shouldn't be looking for a pure playmaker. We need a center to work with Elias who can take advantage of his passing skills.
I agree completely. I never liked Gomez and Elias together, that's why I prayed that Elias and Zajac would find some chemistry this past year since the all-american line had pretty good chemistry.

Having two guys that demand the puck on one line is not a good thing. Elias appeared to fade into the background when Gomez was in charge of most of the puck possession.

Um...correct me if I'm wrong guys but the year before the lockout, wasn't the Egg line one of top scoring lines in the league? I understand your points but that line had some serious chemistry in the beginning and it carried through on the power play especially, even 2 years ago when Elias came back and they weren't together at even strength, they were tremendous on the power play together. I don't think Elias struggles this year had anything to do with playing with Gomer as much as he just couldn't get his game going.

Zubrus would be a good fit, IMO. Even if we overpay at close to $4mil, it still won't be Gomer's current $5mil, so with the cap going up we'd still some $$$ for some help on D.

Um...correct me if I'm wrong guys but the year before the lockout, wasn't the Egg line one of top scoring lines in the league? I understand your points but that line had some serious chemistry in the beginning and it carried through on the power play especially, even 2 years ago when Elias came back and they weren't together at even strength, they were tremendous on the power play together. I don't think Elias struggles this year had anything to do with playing with Gomer as much as he just couldn't get his game going.
They were put together at the allstar break and carried the team through the end of the year. Then they spent 20 games together and were broken up at the end of the season/playoffs last year.

They really only played something like 60 games together max before this year.

They were put together at the allstar break and carried the team through the end of the year. Then they spent 20 games together and were broken up at the end of the season/playoffs last year.

They really only played something like 60 games together max before this year.

Yeah but they had chemistry, from that all star game on they were the top scoring line. I just don't think the lack of scoring this year from them was that they didn't mesh but Julien's style. It killed the whole team's offense, except Parise somehow god bless him.

Um...correct me if I'm wrong guys but the year before the lockout, wasn't the Egg line one of top scoring lines in the league? I understand your points but that line had some serious chemistry in the beginning and it carried through on the power play especially, even 2 years ago when Elias came back and they weren't together at even strength, they were tremendous on the power play together. I don't think Elias struggles this year had anything to do with playing with Gomer as much as he just couldn't get his game going.
There is only one glaring difference in the season where the EGG line worked versus the years where Elias and Gomez had no chemistry at all. Gomez scored 30 goals that year.

Elias and Gomez went YEARS with no chemistry. We tried them after the A line broke up and kept trying them. From 2002-2007 we worked to try to get them some chemistry. It failed for years and years until the year that Gomez started finishing on his chances.

Moreover, as soon as Gomez stopped finishing his chances their chemistry went back to hell.

There is only one glaring difference in the season where the EGG line worked versus the years where Elias and Gomez had no chemistry at all. Gomez scored 30 goals that year.

Elias and Gomez went YEARS with no chemistry. We tried them after the A line broke up and kept trying them. From 2002-2007 we worked to try to get them some chemistry. It failed for years and years until the year that Gomez started finishing on his chances.

that's not technically correct, Gomer scored 30 the year after the lockout - when Elias was out for half the year and then spent the last few weeks with Brylin and Langs to split up the O. The EGG line was only together on the power play that year.
However, that does also make your point about them scoring without each other at even strength though.

that's not technically correct, Gomer scored 30 the year after the lockout - when Elias was out for half the year and then spent the last few weeks with Brylin and Langs to split up the O. The A line was only together on the power play that year.
However, that does also make your point about them scoring without each other at even strength though.
That year - the year after the lockout - was their best year in terms of chemistry and, IMO, the EGG line's most effective season. Elias and Gomez don't work well together. Elias isn't a good enough pure scorer to take advantage of Gomez's passing skills, and Gomez's scoring ability isn't good enough to take advantage of Elias's playmaking ability. They don't complement each other well UNLESS Gomez is finishing pucks, which has never been his greatest ability.

Which is my point - if Gomez is gone, I don't want a playmaker in return.

Elias worked the best with Arnott and Sykora - two players who could both finish and pass, not specialists. Gomez worked best with Mogilny, a pure goalscorer who could really wire the puck.

There is only one glaring difference in the season where the EGG line worked versus the years where Elias and Gomez had no chemistry at all. Gomez scored 30 goals that year.

Elias and Gomez went YEARS with no chemistry. We tried them after the A line broke up and kept trying them. From 2002-2007 we worked to try to get them some chemistry. It failed for years and years until the year that Gomez started finishing on his chances.

Moreover, as soon as Gomez stopped finishing his chances their chemistry went back to hell.
I also don't think that it's a coincidence that the line was pretty inconsistent this year with the number of injuries that occurred (especially to Gionta, the only guy who would shoot).

Gomez and Elias together has been pretty underwhelming through the years though. Like I said, they both demand the puck.

That year - the year of the lockout - was their best year in terms of chemistry and, IMO, the EGG line's most effective season.

I'm confused - do you mean the year before the lockout, Gomer didn't have 30 that year. He had it the year after the lockout and they hardly played together that year as a full line except on the power play - Elias missed half the season, then after the olympics played with Brylin and Langs while Parise played with Gomer and Gio.

Elias worked the best with Arnott and Sykora - two players who could both finish and pass, not specialists. Gomez worked best with Mogilny, a pure goalscorer who could really wire the puck.

This is true - Patty was the playmaker on that line - he set up some beautiful goals for them but scored some great ones as well.

I'm confused - do you mean the year before the lockout, Gomer didn't have 30 that year. He had it the year after the lockout and they hardly played together that year as a full line except on the power play - Elias missed half the season, then after the olympics played with Brylin and Langs while Parise played with Gomer and Gio.
Read it again, there was an error in my wording. And no, during "the streak" was our first forming of the EGG line. Once Elias returned he played with Gomez and Gionta, that wasn't new to this season, Drew.

Read it again, there was an error in my wording. And no, during "the streak" was our first forming of the EGG line.
The first occurrence came in 03-04 highlighted by a notable 4 goal performance against the Islanders down the stretch.

And "the streak" occured AFTER the EGG line was broken up.

I really think Gio made the whole thing click for them. When he was moved up in 03-04 with them they took off. Then when he had a bunch of injuries this year they were cold.

Read it again, there was an error in my wording. And no, during "the streak" was our first forming of the EGG line.

No the Egg line was formed the last half of the year before the lockout. They didn't play together during the streak - Elias was on the second line and Parise was on Gomer and Gio's wing.

I really think Gio made the whole thing click for them. When he was moved up in 03-04 with them they took off. Then when he had a bunch of injuries this year they were cold.

I kind of agree - Gio and his play in front of the net really made that line as he finished alot of their setups and rebounds.

DF38, Yes, I did mean Handzus in my original post, and yes, Zubrus is also a former Flyer (who I also really liked). I think both would "fit" in the Devils "system" but Zuby is a winger and Zeus is a center so it would depend on what Lou feels is the bigger need. Zubrus should come way cheaper than the $4mill Zeus is allegedly asking for, but after his play for Buffalo this year, Zubrus isn't going to be that cheap either.

The first occurrence came in 03-04 highlighted by a notable 4 goal performance against the Islanders down the stretch.

And "the streak" occured AFTER the EGG line was broken up.

I really think Gio made the whole thing click for them. When he was moved up in 03-04 with them they took off. Then when he had a bunch of injuries this year they were cold.
Was it? All right, I guess I was wrong.

In any event, Gionta really helps that line tick but Elias and Gomez still don't have great chemistry and they never have, except that stretch... whenever it was.

Was it? All right, I guess I was wrong.

In any event, Gionta really helps that line tick but Elias and Gomez still don't have great chemistry and they never had, except that stretch... whenever it was.
I wonder if because Gio's always driving the net and scoring garbage goals Elias and Gomez are less hesitant in letting shots go.

Elias this year had a terrible release though, it was always telegraphed and he usually tried to get off harder shots than what he had time for. I can't remember him having so many shots deflected out of play by pokechecking defensemen.

I just have a question, everyone believes that Gomez will go out west to a contender, but who? Not the Ducks. There about to win the cup and they don't need him or his next contract, especially with the money they will have to eventually pay Getzlaf and Perry. And McDonald had a pretty good game last night and is a lot cheaper. San Jose? Not if they plan to re-sign Marleu as Wilson has indicated. So that leave the Kings & Yotes, which aren't contenders and the Flames who I guess are and can use him. But Philly and the Rags may come after him hard. I really have no idea where he will wind up.

personally i think if gomer goes anywhere it will be to the kings

I just have a question, everyone believes that Gomez will go out west to a contender, but who? Not the Ducks. There about to win the cup and they don't need him or his next contract, especially with the money they will have to eventually pay Getzlaf and Perry. And McDonald had a pretty good game last night and is a lot cheaper. San Jose? Not if they plan to re-sign Marleu as Wilson has indicated. So that leave the Kings & Yotes, which aren't contenders and the Flames who I guess are and can use him. But Philly and the Rags may come after him hard. I really have no idea where he will wind up.

I really doubted he's sign with either team, but if he did have some sort of falling out with Lou or the organization in general, would he be the type to sign with one or the other just to bust chops? I'm fairly certain that we'll both be looking into him.

I just have a question, everyone believes that Gomez will go out west to a contender, but who?



I think the sharks are in for a big overhaul. There's only so many times you can get into the playoffs and have a really good team but not make it to the finals or win the cup.

I just have a question, everyone believes that Gomez will go out west to a contender, but who?

I can see Gomez going to the Canucks to play with Markus Naslund. They desperatly need a center for Naslund and someone to take some pressure of the Sedin twins.

I can see Gomez going to the Canucks to play with Markus Naslund. They desperatly need a center for Naslund and someone to take some pressure of the Sedin twins.
I don't unless the 'Nucks open up some cap space. They're at 40.5 with 14 players signed. Unless they move Morrison I don't see it happening.

I just have a question, everyone believes that Gomez will go out west to a contender, but who? Not the Ducks. There about to win the cup and they don't need him or his next contract, especially with the money they will have to eventually pay Getzlaf and Perry. And McDonald had a pretty good game last night and is a lot cheaper. San Jose? Not if they plan to re-sign Marleu as Wilson has indicated. So that leave the Kings & Yotes, which aren't contenders and the Flames who I guess are and can use him. But Philly and the Rags may come after him hard. I really have no idea where he will wind up.

The Kings could potentially be playoff contenders after this off-season.

I can also see Chicago making a strong pitch for Gomez. They are pretty weak down the middle and with guys like Havlat, youngsters like Toews, Kane or JVR or Turris, and speedsters like Ruutu and Vrbata, the Hawks might be an intriguing choice.

St. Louis is another one that could make a strong pitch. I'm sure JD would be interested in Gomez after seeing him kill the Rangers so many times.

Another choice could be Washington. He'd have the chance to play with Ovechkin and help break in Backstrom a little easier. The key here is a team like Washington NEEDS to spend some dough in order to get to the cap floor.

All of these teams are pretty bad right now but, along with LA, they could be pretty good in the next couple of years. Gomez could probably take a lot of the credit for helping them surge.

I don't unless the 'Nucks open up some cap space. They're at 40.5 with 14 players signed. Unless they move Morrison I don't see it happening.

I posted a proposal on the Vancouver board if Gomez decided NOT to sign here, so it would allow them to pursue Gomez...

Morrison
Bourdon

VS

Pelley
Bergfors
1st pick in the '08 draft

I'm not a big fan of people throwing away our picks. The clock on Brodeur is ticking, with the time it takes to develop goalies we're going to NEED someone waiting in the wings.

personally i think if gomer goes anywhere it will be to the kings

You may be right.

Which is why I laugh when I see threads dealing with the Rangers, Isles, or Flyers getting him... it ain't gonna happen.

If he doesn't re-sign with the Devils he will definitely be out west.

Kings, Sharks, something in that vein.

The Kings could potentially be playoff contenders after this off-season.

If Gomez joins the Kings they´d have pretty good offense with him, Cammalleri, Frolov, Kopitar and Brown. Gomez is now at his best, but the four others are only reaching their prime. So it would make a good fit for the Kings, if Gomer joined them.

I can also see Chicago making a strong pitch for Gomez. They are pretty weak down the middle and with guys like Havlat, youngsters like Toews, Kane or JVR or Turris, and speedsters like Ruutu and Vrbata, the Hawks might be an intriguing choice.

St. Louis is another one that could make a strong pitch. I'm sure JD would be interested in Gomez after seeing him kill the Rangers so many times.

Another choice could be Washington. He'd have the chance to play with Ovechkin and help break in Backstrom a little easier. The key here is a team like Washington NEEDS to spend some dough in order to get to the cap floor.

All of these teams are pretty bad right now but, along with LA, they could be pretty good in the next couple of years. Gomez could probably take a lot of the credit for helping them surge.
I agree, I can see all those teams making pitches for him. He's said he wants to be on a contender, the question is does he mean a contender right now (San Jose, Anaheim, Vancouver) or a team with a lot of young guys who will be a contender (Washington, LA)? There aren't too many current contenders out west who have an opening at first line center and the cap space for him, so it's hard to envision him going to one of those teams.

Aside from the west coast thing, I think Washington would be a perfect fit for him. They've got great snipers on the wing (Ovechkin and Semin) and are weak at center. They're a young team that plays a very offensive game. They have a TON of cap space to work with, and their GM has said they're looking to make some big moves this offseason. IMO, he has to do something to show this team is going to be a contender, especially since Ovechkin's contract is up next summer, and signing Gomez would certainly be a big move.

I agree, I can see all those teams making pitches for him. He's said he wants to be on a contender, the question is does he mean a contender right now (San Jose, Anaheim, Vancouver) or a team with a lot of young guys who will be a contender (Washington, LA)? There aren't too many current contenders out west who have an opening at first line center and the cap space for him, so it's hard to envision him going to one of those teams.

Aside from the west coast thing, I think Washington would be a perfect fit for him. They've got great snipers on the wing (Ovechkin and Semin) and are weak at center. They're a young team that plays a very offensive game. They have a TON of cap space to work with, and their GM has said they're looking to make some big moves this offseason. IMO, he has to do something to show this team is going to be a contender, especially since Ovechkin's contract is up next summer, and signing Gomez would certainly be a big move.

I think they might go with the Backstrom route on this one for now, that's why he was drafted and signed to a contract.

Colorado could be a player for Gomez.They want to land a top free agent forward and top free agent defenseman.Denver is not far from Alaska.It's not Canada.Ryan Smyth and Chris Drury have been linked to Colorado.Even Michal Handzus.Plus Peter Forsberg.The Avs would have made the playoffs if the season had another week left

I don't know how badly Scott would want to go to Colorado and see Bourque up in the rafters every night he plays and look around and remember this is where he endured the worst feeling in life, losing the Stanley Cup. He talks about that so much and how he turns the channel whenever he sees Bourque getting the cup.........I mean he could be over it easily and sign there, but I just don't see it based on what he's said.

I think they might go with the Backstrom route on this one for now, that's why he was drafted and signed to a contract.
They need two centers, they honestly don't have a first or second line center. Zubrus was centering their top line before the trade, but he's not really a center. Gomez could center Ovechkin's line, Backstrom could center Semin's, and that way they're not putting too much pressure on Backstrom, to come over and be THE center right away.

They need two centers, they honestly don't have a first or second line center. Zubrus was centering their top line before the trade, but he's not really a center. Gomez could center Ovechkin's line, Backstrom could center Semin's, and that way they're not putting too much pressure on Backstrom, to come over and be THE center right away.

Maybe, but that's what he was drafted for. I see Cashin Yashin just became a FA, with the money he's making maybe the Devils can sign him cheap as a stop gap for now. Something like 2.5-3 a year.

Maybe, but that's what he was drafted for. I see Cashin Yashin just became a FA, with the money he's making maybe the Devils can sign him cheap as a stop gap for now. Something like 2.5-3 a year.
Please not Yashin.

I just see the Capitals as a big contender because they have SO much free space and need a center. I believe they only have 20 million tied up in 12 players for next season, so they're going to need to give out some big contracts just to make it to the cap floor. And of those three centers I think Gomez is the best fit for them. I'm not saying it will happen, but I would be shocked if they don't offer him 6+.

Please not Yashin.

I just see the Capitals as a big contender because they have SO much free space and need a center. I believe they only have 20 million tied up in 12 players for next season, so they're going to need to give out some big contracts just to make it to the cap floor. And of those three centers I think Gomez is the best fit for them. I'm not saying it will happen, but I would be shocked if they don't offer him 6+.

I don't like Yashin either, but if it's just for a year and the FA well has dried up, why not?

Maybe, but that's what he was drafted for. I see Cashin Yashin just became a FA, with the money he's making maybe the Devils can sign him cheap as a stop gap for now. Something like 2.5-3 a year.
The Caps have definitely been talking like they don't want to put Ovey and Backstrom on the same line next year.

Ovechkin Gomez Clark (?)
Semin Backstrom (Fehr, Fleischmann?)

That's a very solid left side and center lineup.

The Caps have definitely been talking like they don't want to put Ovey and Backstrom on the same line next year.

Ovechkin Gomez Clark (?)
Semin Backstrom (Fehr, Fleischmann?)

That's a very solid left side and center lineup.

It is pretty much decided that Backstrom will play with Semin. I could see Fehr moving to the top line if he gets healthy. I saw him play quite a few times last hear and he has a lot of potential.

Gomez and Ovechkin on the same line would be killer.

It is pretty much decided that Backstrom will play with Semin. I could see Fehr moving to the top line if he gets healthy. I saw him play quite a few times last hear and he has a lot of potential.

Gomez and Ovechkin on the same line would be killer.
Exactly. Plus I have them at 15 players signed for 24.5M right now with another around 2.8 on 3 RFAs. That means they are going to have to spend about 15-20M extra this offseason to get to the cap floor.

Please not Yashin.

I just see the Capitals as a big contender because they have SO much free space and need a center. I believe they only have 20 million tied up in 12 players for next season, so they're going to need to give out some big contracts just to make it to the cap floor. And of those three centers I think Gomez is the best fit for them. I'm not saying it will happen, but I would be shocked if they don't offer him 6+.

Not to mention the fact that the Caps' owner promised the fans that the team would spend more money, has given management the green light to spend more money, and it's widely believed that GMGM will be fired if the team isn't at least challenging for a playoff spot at the end of the season.

Exactly. Plus I have them at 15 players signed for 24.5M right now with another around 2.8 on 3 RFAs. That means they are going to have to spend about 15-20M extra this offseason to get to the cap floor.

I did math on my blog yesterday that puts them at about $29m before any UFA signings (link in my profile). I thought the floor was going to be around $36-$38, which means they need to spend around $10m to get to the floor.

The Caps are in the weird position of needing to spend money this offseason, but not too much because after next season the top 3 goal scorers (Clark, Ovechkin, Semin) and the franchise goaltender (Olie) all need new contracts.

I did math on my blog yesterday that puts them at about $29m before any UFA signings (link in my profile). I thought the floor was going to be around $36-$38, which means they need to spend around $10m to get to the floor.

The Caps are in the weird position of needing to spend money this offseason, but not too much because after next season the top 3 goal scorers (Clark, Ovechkin, Semin) and the franchise goaltender (Olie) all need new contracts.
Whoops nevermind. I had the floor and midpoint confused in my head. The floor will be around 33-36M. Which is quite a bit less than the 41-44M I had in my head.

Either way, like you said, I can see the caps trying to spend up to the midpoint.

Edit: I don't see Olie getting a raise at this point in his career, Ovey will probably command 4M more at least and Semin needs probably 3M more. Unless you want to play the RFA game with Semin and lowball him for about 2M more.

Whoops nevermind. I had the floor and midpoint confused in my head. The floor will be around 33-36M. Which is quite a bit less than the 41-44M I had in my head.

Either way, like you said, I can see the caps trying to spend up to the midpoint.

Edit: I don't see Olie getting a raise at this point in his career, Ovey will probably command 4M more at least and Semin needs probably 3M more. Unless you want to play the RFA game with Semin and lowball him for about 2M more.

You really think Ovy will get $8m? His cap hit this year is $3.9, so 4 more on top of that would be almost eight million. I think he might get $5 or $6m, but I don't know of any players getting more than that before they enter the UFA stage of their careers. Semin I think $3,5-$4m is on target. Clark will probably get in the same range, possibly even more. He's one of the better forwards defensively, he's the team captain, and he chipped in 30 goals as well this past season.

I expect that Caps to spend in the low $40m, but not so much that they lose Revenue sharing, which I believe that they would have to stay below $43-$44m to obtain.

Most caps fans think Olie will end up in the $4-$5m range, maybe slightly less, but not a lot. The organization wants to do right by him, and there've been instances in the past where the team has taken some knocks for the way they've treated guys at the very end of long careers with the club (see Gartner, Langway, Johansson, and Bondra).

I expect that both Ovey and Crosby will earn quite a pretty penny after this year. Plus the cap should go up quite a bit next year as well, with the increase in the players' percentage share. It's quite possible that the cap could be around 55M in which case 8M (with the max being 11M is somewhat reasonable)

(I think there will be a large bump in the cap through an overall increase in ticket prices, plus a huge increase in NJ earnings with the new arena opening.)

You really think Ovy will get $8m? His cap hit this year is $3.9, so 4 more on top of that would be almost eight million. I think he might get $5 or $6m, but I don't know of any players getting more than that before they enter the UFA stage of their careers. Semin I think $3,5-$4m is on target. Clark will probably get in the same range, possibly even more. He's one of the better forwards defensively, he's the team captain, and he chipped in 30 goals as well this past season.

I expect that Caps to spend in the low $40m, but not so much that they lose Revenue sharing, which I believe that they would have to stay below $43-$44m to obtain.

Most caps fans think Olie will end up in the $4-$5m range, maybe slightly less, but not a lot. The organization wants to do right by him, and there've been instances in the past where the team has taken some knocks for the way they've treated guys at the very end of long careers with the club (see Gartner, Langway, Johansson, and Bondra).

There is no way he gets $8 mil this early in his career.

Also, I think whoever gets Gomez will definitely overspend for him and I think the Caps might be a bit reluctant to do so.

Colorado has no trouble scoring as they still have an ageless Sakic and young Stastny. Forsberg makes more sense than Gomer.

There is no way he gets $8 mil this early in his career.
Hemsky made 4.1M last year after one good year. Nash made 5.4M after a 40 goal season. Gaborik makes 6.3M and hasn't accomplished nearly as much as Ovechkin. These were all RFA signings that took place before the cap reached 45M. 8M is not unreasonable.

Hemsky made 4.1M last year after one good year. Nash made 5.4M after a 40 goal season. Gaborik makes 6.3M and hasn't accomplished nearly as much as Ovechkin. These were all RFA signings that took place before the cap reached 45M. 8M is not unreasonable.

It isn't completely unreasonable, especially when you look at those numbers. I just see him making at most $7 because he is so young.

It isn't completely unreasonable, especially when you look at those numbers. I just see him making at most $7 because he is so young.
I think that through cap inflation it will hit the 8M mark.

Hemsky made 4.1M last year after one good year. Nash made 5.4M after a 40 goal season. Gaborik makes 6.3M and hasn't accomplished nearly as much as Ovechkin. These were all RFA signings that took place before the cap reached 45M. 8M is not unreasonable.

Nash's contract is a little different in my eyes because it was such a long-term deal. It was built on the fact that the player would become better over time, and that the Jacket's would be getting a discount down the road (which doesn't look like it will hold true).

Gaborik's contract extends into his UFA years, because he has 6 accrued seasons at this point, and there are still multiple years on the contract. Much like the contract Richards in TB signed. It was technically signed while he was an RFA, but the terms f the contract extend into his UFA years, and locked him up for part of that time frame as well.

I'm not sure if I'm doing the math right, but Nash's current contract also carries into 1 year he could be a UFA as well, but I'm not certain.

Nash's contract is a little different in my eyes because it was such a long-term deal. It was built on the fact that the player would become better over time, and that the Jacket's would be getting a discount down the road (which doesn't look like it will hold true).

Gaborik's contract extends into his UFA years, because he has 6 accrued seasons at this point, and there are still multiple years on the contract. Much like the contract Richards in TB signed. It was technically signed while he was an RFA, but the terms f the contract extend into his UFA years, and locked him up for part of that time frame as well.

I'm not sure if I'm doing the math right, but Nash's current contract also carries into 1 year he could be a UFA as well, but I'm not certain.
Well the question is, do you want to negotiate year to year with Ovechkin (which could take a toll on his relationship with the organization, it did with us and Gomez) or do you want to try to lock him up now before you build a better team around him and his numbers, presumably, go up?

If you're going year to year I can see him signing for 6-6.5.

Well the question is, do you want to negotiate year to year with Ovechkin (which could take a toll on his relationship with the organization, it did with us and Gomez) or do you want to try to lock him up now before you build a better team around him and his numbers, presumably, go up?

If you're going year to year I can see him signing for 6-6.5.

If you're the Caps, you don't worry about this. Your main priority is this upcoming season. Ovechkin doesn't even have an accredited NHLPA agent that the Caps are allowed to negotiate with.

Colorado has no trouble scoring as they still have an ageless Sakic and young Stastny. Forsberg makes more sense than Gomer.

Except you're probably getting Forsberg for 50-60 games because of his persistent injury bug. The bigger question is how productive will an older and more banged up Forsberg be?
While Gomez will cost more, the longer term upsides (healthier, younger, faster) seem better.

There is no way he gets $8 mil this early in his career.

Also, I think whoever gets Gomez will definitely overspend for him and I think the Caps might be a bit reluctant to do so.
I agree that they'll overspend, but I don't think the Caps will hesitate to do that. They need to spend money to get to the cap floor, the owner has said he will spend this offseason, same with the GM, and I think they realize they're going to have to overpay to get a big name FA to sign with them.

If you're the Caps, you don't worry about this. Your main priority is this upcoming season. Ovechkin doesn't even have an accredited NHLPA agent that the Caps are allowed to negotiate with.
They would be incredibly stupid to not negotiate for a long term deal now, or at the very least do the best to keep him happy. He is their franchise player, even more so than Kolzig who has been there his entire career. You go to Caps games, everyone has #8 jerseys - it's like Brodeur jerseys here. And he's got the personality to market. Semin may end up scoring just as many goals as him (though I could be biased, because I really like Semin), but he will never be the face of the franchise like Ovechkin.

I think that through cap inflation it will hit the 8M mark.

Possibly, but Ted has been reluctant to spend a lot of money. The Caps will be at the lower spectrum of payrolls for a long time.

Except you're probably getting Forsberg for 50-60 games because of his persistent injury bug. The bigger question is how productive will an older and more banged up Forsberg be?
While Gomez will cost more, the longer term upsides (healthier, younger, faster) seem better.

50-60? Probably less than that and his heart is probably in Sweden. Forsberg is
a very dangerous sign for anyone that goes down that road.

I agree that they'll overspend, but I don't think the Caps will hesitate to do that. They need to spend money to get to the cap floor, the owner has said he will spend this offseason, same with the GM, and I think they realize they're going to have to overpay to get a big name FA to sign with them.

They would be incredibly stupid to not negotiate for a long term deal now, or at the very least do the best to keep him happy. He is their franchise player, even more so than Kolzig who has been there his entire career. You go to Caps games, everyone has #8 jerseys - it's like Brodeur jerseys here. And he's got the personality to market. Semin may end up scoring just as many goals as him (though I could be biased, because I really like Semin), but he will never be the face of the franchise like Ovechkin.
If you ask most caps fans, they'll say Olie is the face of the Franchise over Ovy. There are still plenty more Olie jerseys than there are Ovy jerseys. Most of the people that have bought Ovy jerseys are the people that went out and snatched up Jagr jerseys 6 years ago.

As a result of the Jagr debacle, and the fact that we were a top 6 payroll that finished second to the bottom in '03-'04, the team is extremely hesitant still to over pay for a big name. Expect a few second tier free agents in Washington before the 1 big guy, unless it is a person that is known for being a complete hockey player, and an unselfish player.

If you ask most caps fans, they'll say Olie is the face of the Franchise over Ovy. There are still plenty more Olie jerseys than there are Ovy jerseys. Most of the people that have bought Ovy jerseys are the people that went out and snatched up Jagr jerseys 6 years ago.

As a result of the Jagr debacle, and the fact that we were a top 6 payroll that finished second to the bottom in '03-'04, the team is extremely hesitant still to over pay for a big name. Expect a few second tier free agents in Washington before the 1 big guy, unless it is a person that is known for being a complete hockey player, and an unselfish player.
The Caps games I've gone to the past few years I've noticed more Ovy jerseys than Olie jerseys. And Olie is getting up there in age, he's not going to be around too much longer.

Ovechkin is just such a marketable personality (IMO, the most marketable in hockey) that I think Washington needs to build around him. And if I was him, I'd be seriously pissed if they have another nothing offseason where they don't sign anyone significant and don't give him any help.

Anyways, I just think that Gomez would be a perfect fit there, and that the Caps should go after him or another FA center. Even if it's not enough to get him, they should be making a pretty big push.

The Caps games I've gone to the past few years I've noticed more Ovy jerseys than Olie jerseys. And Olie is getting up there in age, he's not going to be around too much longer.

Ovechkin is just such a marketable personality (IMO, the most marketable in hockey) that I think Washington needs to build around him. And if I was him, I'd be seriously pissed if they have another nothing offseason where they don't sign anyone significant and don't give him any help.

Anyways, I just think that Gomez would be a perfect fit there, and that the Caps should go after him or another FA center. Even if it's not enough to get him, they should be making a pretty big push.

That tinted visor does attract attention. Uniqueness and identifying individuals like Ovechkin is a step in the right direction.

That tinted visor does attract attention. Uniqueness and identifying individuals like Ovechkin is a step in the right direction.

Ovechkin is an oversized personality on and off the ice. He and Gomer together during interviews would be HILARIOUS. Don't want to see Scotty go, but I could see Washington being a good fit and with the money to afford him. Like a 5/35 deal.

Except you're probably getting Forsberg for 50-60 games because of his persistent injury bug. The bigger question is how productive will an older and more banged up Forsberg be?
While Gomez will cost more, the longer term upsides (healthier, younger, faster) seem better.

Agreed but I don't think they want a long term solution. The Aves have a lot of good forward prospects especially at center.

The Caps games I've gone to the past few years I've noticed more Ovy jerseys than Olie jerseys. And Olie is getting up there in age, he's not going to be around too much longer.

Ovechkin is just such a marketable personality (IMO, the most marketable in hockey) that I think Washington needs to build around him. And if I was him, I'd be seriously pissed if they have another nothing offseason where they don't sign anyone significant and don't give him any help.

Anyways, I just think that Gomez would be a perfect fit there, and that the Caps should go after him or another FA center. Even if it's not enough to get him, they should be making a pretty big push.

Caps fans would love to see Gomez in a caps uniform next year, we're just extremely doubtful of management's ability to pull that off. We're more expecting a player like Stumpel to be brought in, because that's been management's MO in free agent history.

The 3 biggets Free Agent signings in Caps history:
1. Robert Lang (in '03)
2. Brian Pothier (in '06)
3. Dmitri Mironov (in '99)

Not a lot to get excited about there.

Caps fans would love to see Gomez in a caps uniform next year, we're just extremely doubtful of management's ability to pull that off. We're more expecting a player like Stumpel to be brought in, because that's been management's MO in free agent history.

The 3 biggets Free Agent signings in Caps history:
1. Robert Lang (in '03)
2. Brian Pothier (in '06)
3. Dmitri Mironov (in '99)

Not a lot to get excited about there.
I know what you're saying and we're the same way but,

A) You have a crapload of cap space and like you said, McPhee needs to get this team to at least compete for a playoff spot next year

B) You have Ovechkin, he's a fun guy to be around and top line players want to play with top line players (unless you're like Sundin and you can still put up 80 points a year with scrubs on your wing)

I don't know if they'll come but I'm sure McPhee will try hard to get someone bigger than Stumpel. (Weren't the Caps one of the teams to offer Chara a 7M+ contract last year?) At the very least I expect this to be like Chicago last year, plenty of offers will be made but nobody will bite.

I know what you're saying and we're the same way but,

A) You have a crapload of cap space and like you said, McPhee needs to get this team to at least compete for a playoff spot next year

B) You have Ovechkin, he's a fun guy to be around and top line players want to play with top line players (unless you're like Sundin and you can still put up 80 points a year with scrubs on your wing)

I don't know if they'll come but I'm sure McPhee will try hard to get someone bigger than Stumpel. (Weren't the Caps one of the teams to offer Chara a 7M+ contract last year?) At the very least I expect this to be like Chicago last year, plenty of offers will be made but nobody will bite.

If the cap goes to $52 like Larry Brooks predicted (and I'm not buying yet), the Caps will probably end up with around a $40-$42 million payroll. They certainly won't go over the revenue sharing point of $44 million. Just because a team chases a Free Agent, doesn't mean it will get the free agent. The Caps have tried to get top tier Free Agents before without much success. Jeremy Roenick signed with the Flyers for less money than the Caps offered when he was a UFA, and Shanahan gave up the famous quote "Why the f--- would anyone want to play in Washington" not all that long ago when we tried to sign him.

I believe the final offer for the Caps to Chara was 4 years $6.5 million.

If the cap goes to $52 like Larry Brooks predicted (and I'm not buying yet), the Caps will probably end up with around a $40-$42 million payroll. They certainly won't go over the revenue sharing point of $44 million. Just because a team chases a Free Agent, doesn't mean it will get the free agent. The Caps have tried to get top tier Free Agents before without much success. Jeremy Roenick signed with the Flyers for less money than the Caps offered when he was a UFA, and Shanahan gave up the famous quote "Why the f--- would anyone want to play in Washington" not all that long ago when we tried to sign him.

I believe the final offer for the Caps to Chara was 4 years $6.5 million.
Yeah, I agree. While I don't see the Caps spending past the midpoint, I can't see them spending too much less. (1-2M under is about right)

Going by estimations I trust the cap will be about 48.5M if the NHL and NHLPA waive the 5% adjustment factor and around 51M if they don't.

Yeah, I agree. While I don't see the Caps spending past the midpoint, I can't see them spending too much less. (1-2M under is about right)

Going by estimations I trust the cap will be about 48.5M if the NHL and NHLPA waive the 5% adjustment factor and around 51M if they don't.

I expect the PA is not going to do anything lienient for the NHL at this juncture, so look for $51m. That said, I'm not bringing any insider information or anything to this discussion, just what my knowledge of reading entirely too many articles about the NHL has brought me.

Hi guys..has Gomez said anywhere that he wanted to play in a city that is closer to his home in Alaska?
Curious from a Canuck fans point of view

Hi guys..has Gomez said anywhere that he wanted to play in a city that is closer to his home in Alaska?
Curious from a Canuck fans point of view

No. He isn't leaning to one way or the other. We'll have to wait and see.....

No. He isn't leaning to one way or the other. We'll have to wait and see.....
He has said he would like to play out West - which is definitely closer to home. Nothing specific about Vancouver though, or any other western teams.

word on the street is that Philly really wants him.

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20070610_On_the_NHL___Flyers_bolster_coaching_staf f.html

word on the street is that Philly really wants him.

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20070610_On_the_NHL___Flyers_bolster_coaching_staf f.html



Yeah that's true.

Yeah that's true.

I can't see Scotty going to Philly...I just can't. Stranger things have happened (Bruce Driver, Johnny Mac) but I really don't see him staying in the East let alone the division.

To me, for the style he's seemingly looking to play I'd say the West is pretty much where he'll land. This is really just an off-the-wall type of prediction of sorts but I could see Edmonton willing to throw the cash at him because right now they're desperate for a player of his caliber. But considering they wouldn't even pay for Smyth...maybe not.

I can't see Scotty going to Philly...I just can't. Stranger things have happened (Bruce Driver, Johnny Mac) but I really don't see him staying in the East let alone the division.

To me, for the style he's seemingly looking to play I'd say the West is pretty much where he'll land. This is really just an off-the-wall type of prediction of sorts but I could see Edmonton willing to throw the cash at him because right now they're desperate for a player of his caliber. But considering they wouldn't even pay for Smyth...maybe not.



Yeah I don't think he'll go there but I know they are interested and so is Phoenix. The only thing it really means is that they are interested in him. I know Phoenix tried to get him atleast twice and he and gretzky are friends. I can see alot of teams interested in him so I don't think it's too surprising that this article came out. You could probably make one for every team.

Wherever he lands, assuming it's not here, he's gonna get a fat contract...and I'm saying it now, he's either going to have a horrid season, or miss half of it with injury. It's like the hockey gods saying money shouldn't matter.

Look at some of the players who have gotten ridiculous contracts and just fell flat on their faces: Khabibulin (sic?) has been terrible, Brad Richards, Yashin, Chara (although he really didn't have a goalie or team around him to be better)

Money tends not to translate to success, or so it seems at least. more often than not players that get huge raises and have a sense of entitlement end up suffering the following season. Maybe not in all cases, but I could see him landing in a place where he won't have as much success.

Hey, if Philly is willing to offer up $7 million for 5 years, I'll enjoy hating Gomez.

Hey, if Philly is willing to offer up $7 million for 5 years, I'll enjoy hating Gomez. I would not pay Gomez 7. 6M-6.5M 5 year deal is more like it. Can Devils afford to pay 6.5? I am not sure? With Gomez for 6.5 and Timonen for 5.25 Philly solves a lot of problems and still well under the cap.

Let Gomez go to the Yotes.

I would not pay Gomez 7. 6M-6.5M 5 year deal is more like it. Can Devils afford to pay 6.5? I am not sure? With Gomez for 6.5 and Timonen for 5.25 Philly solves a lot of problems and still well under the cap.

For $6.5 million, you can have him. Geez, we gave Elias $6 million per, no way Lou is offering him more then $6 mil. And if the Rangers don't sign Drury, I hope the Rangers and Flyers get into a bidding war and one of those teams over-pays Gomez through the nose. :D

With the cap going up again, and max money being close to 9 mil, more than one team will offer Gomez 7 million. What he is "worth" is what the market will bear, and that is 7 million dollars. (And I think Lou offers 6.5, multi-year, NTC, all to no avail...)

Let Gomez go to the Yotes.

Wherever in the West he ends up, I will go to Glendale from Tucson to see him play, instead of waiting however many years before the Devils return to Arizona (Three?) next game is in Newark, then? Marty could rest that night anyway, if so then another 3 years and what, I will have to visit my family in West Trenton to see Brodeur play live again in Newark and maybe Philly.:)

C'mon Scott sign with Wayne and start a vineyard and winery in Verde Valley to the north of Phoenix and/or in Cochise and Santa Cruz counties southeast of Tucson.

The West Coast will fall into the ocean anyway.:joker:

My Gomez stuff might be a bit lacking on the first. So just a heads up.

My Gomez stuff might be a bit lacking on the first. So just a heads up.

and why is that good sir?

and why is that good sir?

Personal reasons. I still might get something but odds are I won't. I might even get screwed out of the golf tournament.

Personal reasons. I still might get something but odds are I won't. I might even get screwed out of the golf tournament.

Weak, you are just a big phony who has been making stuff about Gomer all your while here you liar :sarcasm: Just kidding buddy, hope it works out for you.

Weak, you are just a big phony who has been making stuff about Gomer all your while here you liar :sarcasm: Just kidding buddy, hope it works out for you.

Yeah stuff like this happens all the time it's just the timing this time is bad.

Wherever in the West he ends up, I will go to Glendale from Tucson to see him play, instead of waiting however many years before the Devils return to Arizona (Three?) next game is in Newark, then? Marty could rest that night anyway, if so then another 3 years and what, I will have to visit my family in West Trenton to see Brodeur play live again in Newark and maybe Philly.:)

C'mon Scott sign with Wayne and start a vineyard and winery in Verde Valley to the north of Phoenix and/or in Cochise and Santa Cruz counties southeast of Tucson.

The West Coast will fall into the ocean anyway.:joker:

Sure, come on and enjoy the 115 degree days in the Arizona desert :)
I think Gomer is coming a little further West to play with Kopitar, Cammy, and Frolov and get some camera time in Hollywood. He would fit in nicely with what Lombardi is putting together in LA.

Scott Gomez - #23 - Center - 5'11" - 200lbs

News: The Flyers make a very lucrative offer to unrestricted free agent center Scott Gomez.

Impact: From the sounds of it the deal may be too good for Gomez to pass up. If he does sign a contract with the Flyers, he would likely center the team's top line with Simon Gagne and Mike Knuble. There are worse spots to be in. Stay tuned for further developments as any formal proposal will have to wait a few weeks until after July 1st. (Sun. Jun 10, 2007)

Scott Gomez - #23 - Center - 5'11" - 200lbs

News: The Flyers make a very lucrative offer to unrestricted free agent center Scott Gomez.

Impact: From the sounds of it the deal may be too good for Gomez to pass up. If he does sign a contract with the Flyers, he would likely center the team's top line with Simon Gagne and Mike Knuble. There are worse spots to be in. Stay tuned for further developments as any formal proposal will have to wait a few weeks until after July 1st. (Sun. Jun 10, 2007)
.... the Devils sue the Flyers for tampering and take everything they have.

I mean, come on.

.... the Devils sue the Flyers for tampering and take everything they have.

I mean, come on.

And that was before the trade they just made and the signings that came with it.

I highly doubt they could sign Gomez to an "offer he couldn't refuse" which would likely be ABOVE 7M per year (as the Rangers and other teams will likely offer him 6.5-7M per season) AND sign Pitkanen AND be able to keep more than the minimum amount of players on the roster.

i heard they were shopping Pitka-minus to Edmonton

And that was before the trade they just made and the signings that came with it.

I highly doubt they could sign Gomez to an "offer he couldn't refuse" which would likely be ABOVE 7M per year (as the Rangers and other teams will likely offer him 6.5-7M per season) AND sign Pitkanen AND be able to keep more than the minimum amount of players on the roster.
Agreed. With the signings of Hartnell and Timonen I don't think the Flyers could afford to give Gomez a deal he couldn't refuse.

Agreed. With the signings of Hartnell and Timonen I don't think the Flyers could afford to give Gomez a deal he couldn't refuse.

I actually wonder if Lou was doing the same as Nashville -- IE letting teams talk with Gomez and if any of the teams could come up with an agreement that he'd trade him for a top prospect or a very high pick instead of losing him for nothing.

I think we'll be seeing more of what happened between Philly and the Predators sooner rather than later.

And I also think that Lou would allow Gomez to talk with ANYONE if that was the case since what if he could only come to agreement with either the Rangers or the Flyers? Would Lou really be stupid enough NOT to take picks or prospects from either team instead of losing him for nothing? I know we're all always talking about rivalries and whatnot, but Lou is a shrewd business man and if he knew he had no chance of either matching an offer from one of the teams, that he'd deal him to a rival team knowing that they'd sign him anyway after July 1st.

And I think that we'll see teams are much more willing now to move picks for players that they want and can negotiate with prior to the 1st.

Agreed. With the signings of Hartnell and Timonen I don't think the Flyers could afford to give Gomez a deal he couldn't refuse.

Including Sanderson's and Gauthier's contracts (who many project will be moved), the Flyers have nearly $10mill to spend, which is PLENTY for Pitkanen and a UFA center.

Christ, John Rx.. who's the hottie in the avatar?

Eklund has Gomez prettty much going to the Rangers. How is that? Unless someone is tampering. Lou, hold out for Staal. :D

If Gomez leaves he is only gonna go out west.

Also now that we all know where the Cap will be at next season, I think there is a good chance Gomez stays. A $6 million a year 6 year offer is only a $1 million increase to the cap from his salary last season. I think that offer with a NTC will keep Gomez in NJ. Even if another team hands out $7 million. JMO.

If Gomez leaves he is only gonna go out west.

Also now that we all know where the Cap will be at next season, I think there is a good chance Gomez stays. A $6 million a year 6 year offer is only a $1 million increase to the cap from his salary last season. I think that offer with a NTC will keep Gomez in NJ. Even if another team hands out $7 million. JMO.
Um, we do? They still haven't released next year's salary cap, and I've heard numbers anywhere from $47 million to $52 million.

Um, we do? They still haven't released next year's salary cap, and I've heard numbers anywhere from $47 million to $52 million.

I thought they confirmed it at $48 million???