My Gionta theory; vote to call up Vrana for a sip of coffee

My problem with the forwards is that besides Elias, I haven't seen any real creativity and/or play making. When Gio-Zubrus-Zajac were together it seemed like all three at times were working hard, but none of them could consistently make a decent pass to set up each other. And that to me hurts Gio scoring chances. Look at Gionta last few goals, besides the lucky bounce in CAR, the one in MTL, overtime winner against OTT, Gio-like hard working goals, the type he always gets on his own diligence. He's got 18, can anyone argue that with a consistent play making centermen who can feed him the puck he doesn't have at least 10 or 12 more goals? Might be a reason why he didn't get traded, Lou might understand that it's not entirely his fault and unless we got another play maker or a top D-men, what use is it trading him besides shedding payroll.

For anyone who says he's over payed and blah-blah, realize that in the two seasons since his break out he had 25g in 62GP of a injury plagued season and 18 in 66, in a season where the whole team has had scoring problems(shut out 8 times). Remember when ZP broke in to the top 20 in the league in scoring? I do, and I thought he would stay there all season, but even he has slumped. Correct me if I'm wrong, I haven't seen a thread criticizing him. Now, this is not to knock Zach at all or defend Gio, but just something that hit me after looking at the team stats.

That said, when was the last time this team called up someone late in the season besides to fill in for an injury? Pressure for a young player to score would be a team trying to make the playoffs and in the middle of a scoring slump. But NJ, barring a super collapse, should be in as a upper seed. To me, he makes more sense right now than Bergfors. We couldn't trade for play making, so it has to come from somewhere. Vrana has always been known as a play maker and has finally shown it more this season after a steady growth. Give him 5 games, let him feed the puck to some wingers, the threat of sitting will keep Rupp and Asham competing.;)

Lou reads the forum, right?:sarcasm:

I agree, I think Vrana should play center between Zajac and Gionta. Move Zubrus to the 3rd line with Madden and Pandolfo. He's played great on the checking line on the Sabres.

Let the extra guys work hard to get a spot. Just like the extra D.

If were going to call up youth, then I would rather call up Bergfors. He made the team out of camp, and seems to be the most ready.

Vrana is a great kid, and is a born leader. Let him finish the season in Lowell. Next season he will have some true talent to support him down there, where his development can really take off. Vrana is one of the better Czech prospects around, and has a bright fututre. We shouldnt ruin that by bringing him up to rely upon for more offense.

So yeah, Bergfors' game has always been said to be better suited to the new NHL. So bring him up, if anyone.

Except I think Bergfors is too soft for the NHL. He got hit a few times in the preasons games and whined about a hurt shoulder. So Lou sent him back down.

We really haven't seen Vrana play, let see what he can do. But I agree, lets wait til the season finishes in Lowell.

If were going to call up youth, then I would rather call up Bergfors. He made the team out of camp, and seems to be the most ready.

Vrana is a great kid, and is a born leader. Let him finish the season in Lowell. Next season he will have some true talent to support him down there, where his development can really take off. Vrana is one of the better Czech prospects around, and has a bright fututre. We shouldnt ruin that by bringing him up to rely upon for more offense.

So yeah, Bergfors' game has always been said to be better suited to the new NHL. So bring him up, if anyone.

I like Bergfors style for the NHL and I agree with your view on Vrana, but a look wouldn't hurt. Clarkie got one last year and Bergfors should have been longer if it wasn't for the injury. Lowell is miserable, and he's been consistent until recently. Give 'um a taste, see what he can do, set him up to want to stick next year. This team has not given many kids chances recently, and that's a big factor in development.

Except I think Bergfors is too soft for the NHL. He got hit a few times in the preasons games and whined about a hurt shoulder. So Lou sent him back down.

We really haven't seen Vrana play, let see what he can do. But I agree, lets wait til the season finishes in Lowell.

I dont think that its because hes soft, the preseason is always rough and tumble, because the prospects play ultra hard for their Coaches, and look to make an impression. He is still really young, and its easy to forget that. Parise didnt break into the NHL till he was 22 (23?), and Bergie is just 21, not every prospect can jump in like a franchise forward. Also, the two skill players we have in Lowell, dont play on the same line. When Vrana centered Bergfors, the two went on a small tear, but the team was still loosing, so they were split, and havent been put back since. I dont put stock into stats, we all know Gionta is a great goal scorer, but his stats certainly havent reflected that this season.

Bergfors is going to be Elias#2 for us in the future, book it.

Vrana is a whole different beast, hes not going to be an offensive dynamo, but going to be a player that can play in all different situations. Yep, hes Brylin#2. Maybe more offense, little less defense. Nuff said.

I certainly hope we're gonna see all of our Prospects in Lowell up at one point or another. Theres gotta be a gem among them somewhere.

Maybe a Gionta or Pandolfo Brother combo?

I like Bergfors style for the NHL and I agree with your view on Vrana, but a look wouldn't hurt. Clarkie got one last year and Bergfors should have been longer if it wasn't for the injury. Lowell is miserable, and he's been consistent until recently. Give 'um a taste, see what he can do, set him up to want to stick next year. This team has not given many kids chances recently, and that's a big factor in development.

Oh yeah totally, I completely agree. But I wouldnt want to bring him up just to watch from the pressbox. If he can get guranteed playing time, then fair enough, but I dont think Sutter would be willing to give him that, the games down the stretch should be treated as game 7's of the SCF. We need every point.

I am a fan however of bringing them up with less games to go, when we are in a solid position, just so they can skate with the team, and get used to the NHL atmosphere. That would give them huge confidence boosts, just to realise the big club still remembers that Lowell is an actual team.

I would like to see Bergfors...and no I haven't been posessed by Devilswede. Like I said in another thread I watched the Lowell game last night and Bergfors has moves. He was spinning and dangling but he had no one to pass to. If he had Patty, Parise or Gio with him it could be a deadly combo.

I would like to see Bergfors...and no I haven't been posessed by Devilswede. Like I said in another thread I watched the Lowell game last night and Bergfors has moves. He was spinning and dangling but he had no one to pass to. If he had Patty, Parise or Gio with him it could be a deadly combo.

I dont think ive seen DS defending or hyping Bergfors. If you are a big fan DS, I apologise!!

But yeah, like you say, watch Lowell and he is easily the best player on the ice for them. He just has absolute scrubs for line mates, and can only pick up points on the PP from playing with the "best" guys.

I still remember his WJC play like it was yesterday, absolutely beautiful. I really like him, and cant wait to see him play with the big club next year.

For those that have seen Vrana play is he really Brylin #2?

What are his strengths and weaknesses?

For those that have seen Vrana play is he really Brylin #2?

What are his strengths and weaknesses?

Vrana is the savior of the team and Gionta will not be able to score unless he is brought up. It's not that Gionta consistently takes 50 foot slapshots from the wing that hit the goalie in the crest every time. Lou does not want him called up because it will diminsih the hype of Sidney Crosby too quickly. :sarcasm:

It's been my secret wish for over two years to see Gionta on the 3rd line with Madden and Pandolfo and I'm willing to wait it out a little longer. Gionta would match that line perfectly if they just get a little more time. He's got the other two's speed and he can shoot the puck and has a nose for the net. He's the finisher that line's needed for years.. I really hope the team's bad performance of late doesn't break up that line.

The whole team is (sans Marty) is playing bad right now. They are going to dig themselves out of this hole, not some call up with no NHL experience.

It's been my secret wish for over two years to see Gionta on the 3rd line with Madden and Pandolfo and I'm willing to wait it out a little longer. Gionta would match that line perfectly if they just get a little more time. He's got the other two's speed and he can shoot the puck and has a nose for the net. He's the finisher that line's needed for years.. I really hope the team's bad performance of late doesn't break up that line.

The whole team is (sans Marty) is playing bad right now. They are going to dig themselves out of this hole, not some call up with no NHL experience.

My "secret wish" too... Posted at length on the subject on the "Need More Offense!" thread currently going... Gio is an absolute perfect match for the speed and tenacity of that line, and Mandolfo need a finisher, bad. Gio would pick up all their garbage. Just watch... C'mon Brent, read our forum and GRANT OUR SECRET WISH!!!

I think Vrana and Bergfors belong on the team next year. They will bring youth and excitement to the roster. Asham hasn't really worked out for us like we hoped he would, so I assume he won't be resigned. Sorry Arron.

Bergfors-Elias-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Brylin
Zubrus-Vrana/Pelley-Clarkson/Vrana

Vrana has proved he can play in the pros, on an awful team nonetheless. People forget Bergfors only played a period in the NHL and was ROBBED of a goal. I think they both have solid futures.

I think Vrana and Bergfors belong on the team next year. They will bring youth and excitement to the roster. Asham hasn't really worked out for us like we hoped he would, so I assume he won't be resigned. Sorry Arron.

Bergfors-Elias-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Brylin
Zubrus-Vrana/Pelley-Clarkson/Vrana

Vrana has proved he can play in the pros, on an awful team nonetheless. People forget Bergfors only played a period in the NHL and was ROBBED of a goal. I think they both have solid futures.

The team is way to small I think. I see Zubrus on the 3rd line with Maddolfo, and if both Vrana and Bergfors are on the team, I can't see Brylin having a spot. I just think we won't have the need for another small body.

Don't forget Clarke, he's got something special too and its a shame nobody really has noticed him.

Is he still injured?

Don't forget Clarke, he's got something special too and its a shame nobody really has noticed him.

Is he still injured?
I think so. Pretty sure his injury was supposed to take at least a few weeks, if not more.

I dont think ive seen DS defending or hyping Bergfors. If you are a big fan DS, I apologise!!

But yeah, like you say, watch Lowell and he is easily the best player on the ice for them. He just has absolute scrubs for line mates, and can only pick up points on the PP from playing with the "best" guys.

I still remember his WJC play like it was yesterday, absolutely beautiful. I really like him, and cant wait to see him play with the big club next year.

It's the whole Swedish factor...

My "secret wish" too... Posted at length on the subject on the "Need More Offense!" thread currently going... Gio is an absolute perfect match for the speed and tenacity of that line, and Mandolfo need a finisher, bad. Gio would pick up all their garbage. Just watch... C'mon Brent, read our forum and GRANT OUR SECRET WISH!!!

It adds so much to that line having him there. Never saw your original post, but I'm glad that I'm not alone on that thought. Not only can they shut the opponent's top pairing down but they can also score on you. It also just happens to be my top line in NHL '08 :)

My "secret wish" too... Posted at length on the subject on the "Need More Offense!" thread currently going... Gio is an absolute perfect match for the speed and tenacity of that line, and Mandolfo need a finisher, bad. Gio would pick up all their garbage. Just watch... C'mon Brent, read our forum and GRANT OUR SECRET WISH!!!

I thought Gio would be a great fit with Madden and Pando as well. The only problem with that is what it does to the 2nd scoring line. I don't know if I'd count on Zubrus-Zajac-Clarkson/Brylin to provide anything close to consistent secondary scoring.

I thought Gio would be a great fit with Madden and Pando as well. The only problem with that is what it does to the 2nd scoring line. I don't know if I'd count on Zubrus-Zajac-Clarkson/Brylin to provide anything close to consistent secondary scoring.

Zubrus-Zajac-Langenbrunner.. about the same speed, good grit, and 2 decent trigger men in Zajac and Langs. Clarkson can play with Parise-Elias to add some snarl to an otherwise soft line.

I agree, I think Vrana should play center between Zajac and Gionta. Move Zubrus to the 3rd line with Madden and Pandolfo. He's played great on the checking line on the Sabres.

Let the extra guys work hard to get a spot. Just like the extra D.

i would just sit zajac for a game or so

Zubrus-Zajac-Langenbrunner.. about the same speed, good grit, and 2 decent trigger men in Zajac and Langs. Clarkson can play with Parise-Elias to add some snarl to an otherwise soft line.

Again with the good ideas. F you man, this is getting old.

Clarkie up there protecting our top two scorers seems like a very old school Devils idea, a la Grant Marshall, Randy McKay, Claude Lemieux, et al.

Zubrus-Zajac-Langenbrunner.. about the same speed, good grit, and 2 decent trigger men in Zajac and Langs. Clarkson can play with Parise-Elias to add some snarl to an otherwise soft line.

zubrus zajac and langs were on a line together earlier in the year, but they couldnt score.

I have been dying to see what Vrana can bring to the Devils. Plus, with no chance of Lowell making the playoffs it would work out perfectly for him to come play a few games.

I'll take any sort of a shake up...we need something different

Parise - Elias - Langenbrunner

Bergfors - Zajac - Clarkson

Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta

Brylin - Rupp - Zubrus

Asham

Again with the good ideas. F you man, this is getting old.

Clarkie up there protecting our top two scorers seems like a very old school Devils idea, a la Grant Marshall, Randy McKay, Claude Lemieux, et al.

Hehe.. Sorry, I'll try to suggest getting someone from another team for our garbage who will then turn our team's fortunes around next time ;)

Seriously though, yeah I'm a believer in the philosophy of a speedy grinder who draws attention and hits away from the skill players. Clarkson did a good job earlier in the year with guys like Ovechkin and Kovalchuk getting under their skin and making them lose track of the play.. if he can do that on the top line he can make some room out there for the other 2 smaller, skilled forwards to get some better looks at the net.


zubrus zajac and langs were on a line together earlier in the year, but they couldnt score.

That argument can be used for nearly the whole team. Everyone's been paired up with everyone at some point this year and haven't scored. Zajac and Langs however, have more of a history producing points together than not producing.

Zajac himself is a streaky scorer who usually scores based on plays/chances he generates himself. Zubrus, though showing a lack of scoring touch, does a good job retrieving and keeping a puck deep in the zone and Langenbrunner is at his most dangerous one timing the puck from the hashmarks. The way I see that line working out is that Zajac dumps it in, Zubrus retrieves it, cycles with Zajac while trying to feed it in front to Langs.

Zubrus-Elias-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Clarkson
Rupp-Brylin-Asham

Salvador-Martin
White-Oduya
Rachunek-Vishnevski

Pelley was re-called today, so I guess he might be in on one of the lines...who comes out of the lineup then? Rupp? Asham? Clarkson?

Zubrus-Elias-Gionta
Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Clarkson
Rupp-Brylin-Asham

Salvador-Martin
White-Oduya
Rachunek-Vishnevski

Line 1 has a too much of a speed difference for my liking
Line 2 is a proven commodity in the past
Line 3 worked pretty well at the start of the year, with the main benefit being that Clarkson gets under the skin of top players more than 20 minutes a game.
Line 4 has been a pleasant surprise this year.

Overall, not bad lines at all. I think those were the lines we started with during the first month of the season. The defence pairings not as much. First, Mottau's not on there.. at all. He's definitely a top 6 dman on this team.

I like the 1st pairing but I think we're both basing that on his performance in St Louis which is very different than playing here so time will tell.

The second pairing worries me a bit because both have the occasional lapses in judgement and White doesn't have the footspeed to make up for Oduya's mistakes.

Pair 3, well.. I like my big bruising defencemen, but Vish has disappointed.. Salvador's arrival signals the end of him in my mind.

Pelley was re-called today, so I guess he might be in on one of the lines...who comes out of the lineup then? Rupp? Asham? Clarkson?

Hmm.. thats a good question. The fourth line was doing their job over the last few games and I wouldn't really fault them for the team's play. Pelley is like the middle ground between Brylin and Rupp.. I don't see why we would need to call him up now unless someone is hurt/sick.

Line 2 is a proven commodity in the past


The only reason this line ever worked is because both Parise and Langenbrunner have the ability to slow down to match the speed of Zajac. I think both players are better suited to play with faster people.

I would prefer lines like :

Parise - Elias - Gionta - fast line
Zubrus - Zajac - Brylin - slow line
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner - fast defensive line
Rupp-Asham-Clarkson - crash line

I never thought of Gio with Mad Dog and Pando before the last game, but with the way Madden has playing this year:handclap:

Like some one suggested before, the team does need a shake up. Too often this season we go through goal-less stretches and besides shaking up the lines, nothing much is done. Just waiting til they dig themselves out gets old for me. An infusion, a jolt is needed. All of these "leave them down", "too young" comments are proof that even the fans are drinking the Lou-ade.:sarcasm:...and ladies and jelly spoons, for some of the young-ins in this organization, the flavor has changed.

So Pelley is back. Except for Tallackson(who has done squat up here) it's always a Ryznar or a Pelley recently, not the ones with a little O in their bag-o-tricks. I know, the team has over-achieved a bit, but doesn't mean we have to settle?

The only reason this line ever worked is because both Parise and Langenbrunner have the ability to slow down to match the speed of Zajac. I think both players are better suited to play with faster people.

I would prefer lines like :

Parise - Elias - Gionta - fast line
Zubrus - Zajac - Brylin - slow line
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner - fast defensive line
Rupp-Asham-Clarkson - crash line

Those certainly arent bad lines.. the team has iced those lines at some point over the last 2 seasons. Your assessment is generally accurate (except I don't particularly think of Brylin as slow nor Langs as fast) and although I agree with your assessment, I would offer the following names for those lines in terms of weakness:

Parise - Elias - Gionta (fast line) - The small, can't make space in the playoffs line

Zubrus - Zajac - Brylin (slow line) - Can't finish the play/bury the puck line.

Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner (fast defensive line) - We've all seen this one in action: the can't hit the net to save their lives line.

Rupp-Asham-Clarkson (crash line) Aptly named, but Asham at Center?

Again, not bad lines, but I think we've been there done that over the last 2 seasons and I don't think this team scores many goals if that first line isn't clicking or is over matched physically by big, physical opposing defencemen like the one's in Philly. I think of the preseason - opening month this year were the Flyers would brutalize our smaller forwards.. then I think about how we were kept to the outside and had all our shots blocked in the playoffs against Ottawa and Carolina. I'm willing to roll the dice this season and mix up the offense (like the lines JerryGigantic has in the other thread) forcing the opposition to roll 4 lines against us instead of just containing 2.

i like the idea of switching clarkson/gio.

clarkson can deliver a little energy, maybe a little distraction for elias/parise. i think elias has trouble getting pumped up sometimes, maybe the addition of clarkson could help. (sounds a little familiar, doesn't it?) i love seeing elias get pumped...

gio on the third can produce some sniper prowess, and some speed. gio can be a bit of a pest, why not pest the opposing teams best players alongside madden? maybe gio can pair up with madden on the pk (i believe they have at times?)and instead of madden on a breakaway/scoring chance you can have gio racking up some shorties ( somewhat better offensive instincts, better shot)...good speed between those two...

Right, first of all, aplogies for the bump. But the recent offensive woes have left me more worried than before.

I think this team needs to call up at least one good offensive player from Lowell, if only to just scare the other guys into realising they are playing like crud. Also, a young player may inject some energy into this lethargic forward core. We were successfull with it last season right (Clarkson, Greene) why not try again??

So here it goes.

Parise - Elias - Gionta (Some would say small, however, the passing play for Zachs goal in the toronto game was sick, even if Gio was still on the ice by accident)

Bergfors - Zajac - Langenbrunner (Zajac needs a couple of skill players, and has proven chemistry with Langs, a slightly less effective ZZpop??)

Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus (Really liked this line when it was together, Zubes potted a couple while he was there too, RW is his natural position.)

Asham/Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson (Scrub, energy, doghouse line, Clarkie needs to get back to basics)

Also, our D needs to chip in on the offensive side again, when they were firing the offense looks solid. Basically the Devils are a confidence team, and they need to rebuild that offensive confidence. We may have been on a 3 game winning streak, but can anyone honestly say they looked like they deserved to be on it??

Overreaction?? Maybe, all I know is that our secondary scoring has been subpar all season. Maybe a shakeup will do them good??

Right, first of all, aplogies for the bump. But the recent offensive woes have left me more worried than before.

I think this team needs to call up at least one good offensive player from Lowell, if only to just scare the other guys into realising they are playing like crud. Also, a young player may inject some energy into this lethargic forward core. We were successfull with it last season right (Clarkson, Greene) why not try again??

So here it goes.

Parise - Elias - Gionta (Some would say small, however, the passing play for Zachs goal in the toronto game was sick, even if Gio was still on the ice by accident)

Bergfors - Zajac - Langenbrunner (Zajac needs a couple of skill players, and has proven chemistry with Langs, a slightly less effective ZZpop??)

Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus (Really liked this line when it was together, Zubes potted a couple while he was there too, RW is his natural position.)

Asham/Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson (Scrub, energy, doghouse line, Clarkie needs to get back to basics)

Also, our D needs to chip in on the offensive side again, when they were firing the offense looks solid. Basically the Devils are a confidence team, and they need to rebuild that offensive confidence. We may have been on a 3 game winning streak, but can anyone honestly say they looked like they deserved to be on it??

Overreaction?? Maybe, all I know is that our secondary scoring has been subpar all season. Maybe a shakeup will do them good??

Your right,

I think it's been shown that our current line up isn't consistent enough in the offensive zone. Maybe Asham, Rupp or Brylin should sit so either Vrana, Bergfors or Clarke can get a shot. We know for sure that at least Clarke can score when given the chance. What did it take, one shot to get on the board. Maybe he can Brylin and Rupp a lesson.

Please let Asham sit. At this point he is just a waist. Rupp has been playing better as of late and while Clarkson has cooled down he still at least tries to make something happen. Asham is just awful he drags down who ever he is out there with.

Your right,

I think it's been shown that our current line up isn't consistent enough in the offensive zone. Maybe Asham, Rupp or Brylin should sit so either Vrana, Bergfors or Clarke can get a shot. We know for sure that at least Clarke can score when given the chance. What did it take, one shot to get on the board. Maybe he can Brylin and Rupp a lesson.

Clarkes jaw is peckered, so hes out of the equation. Also, I dont agree with you on Brylin, a healthy Brylin always has a roster spot imo. He may not be doing much on the O side of things, but hes the only reason our 4th line doesnt give up 6 goals a game. He also kills penalties.

I do want to see Bergfors or Vrana up, even if they dont automatically produce, it may wake everyone up again, and make them realise none of them are safe.

Zubrus and Zajac have to get going, they dont work on a line together, so split them up Sutter!!!

Clarkes jaw is peckered, so hes out of the equation. Also, I dont agree with you on Brylin, a healthy Brylin always has a roster spot imo. He may not be doing much on the O side of things, but hes the only reason our 4th line doesnt give up 6 goals a game. He also kills penalties.

I do want to see Bergfors or Vrana up, even if they dont automatically produce, it may wake everyone up again, and make them realise none of them are safe.

Zubrus and Zajac have to get going, they dont work on a line together, so split them up Sutter!!!

Yeah Zubrus and Zajac are officially contributing nothing to the team right now. We need some secondary scoring and they haven't stepped up. For all this talk about how phyisical Zubrus is, we're still paying him 3.4 million to chip in offensively. And Zajac needs to hit the weight room during the offseason. He gets thrown off the puck way to easily for a guy who projects to be a power forward one day in his career. I wouldn't be opposed to seeing Clarkson play with Madden and Pandolfo again, and then put Gio with Zajac and Zubrus. But the problem we have right now is that we have 4 4th liners-Brylin, Asham, Rupp, and Clarkson-so 1 of these guys has to play top 9 minutes. That's why I'd like to see Bergfors get a chance because he immediately can impact the team with top 6-like offense.

Yeah Zubrus and Zajac are officially contributing nothing to the team right now. We need some secondary scoring and they haven't stepped up. For all this talk about how phyisical Zubrus is, we're still paying him 3.4 million to chip in offensively. And Zajac needs to hit the weight room during the offseason. He gets thrown off the puck way to easily for a guy who projects to be a power forward one day in his career. I wouldn't be opposed to seeing Clarkson play with Madden and Pandolfo again, and then put Gio with Zajac and Zubrus. But the problem we have right now is that we have 4 4th liners-Brylin, Asham, Rupp, and Clarkson-so 1 of these guys has to play top 9 minutes. That's why I'd like to see Bergfors get a chance because he immediately can impact the team with top 6-like offense.

Imo, out of the bottom six, Rupp and Asham can sit. Im sick of those two scrubs.

I completely agree with you about Zajac and Zubrus. They need splitting up. Put Zubrus on the checking line (that instantly becomes the best in the NHL), give Zajac some skill and scoring (Langs, Bergfors). Even if they dont produce as much as originally hoped, anything is better than 9 games without a point. Thats just insane.

You could make a case for Clarkson on the top line, its oldskool, its Devils. But where do you put Gionta??? So keep Clarkson on the 4th and let the 3 best skill players on the team thrive.

I agree, I think Vrana should play center between Zajac and Gionta. Move Zubrus to the 3rd line with Madden and Pandolfo. He's played great on the checking line on the Sabres.

Let the extra guys work hard to get a spot. Just like the extra D.

I think zajac is getting too much credit, he is horrible offensively lets not sugar coat this guy anymore.

he is solid in the defensive zone which is a plus but this team needed another center and was not able to get one at the deadline.

zajac and zubrus bring zero offensive to this team.

Imo, out of the bottom six, Rupp and Asham can sit. Im sick of those two scrubs.

I completely agree with you about Zajac and Zubrus. They need splitting up. Put Zubrus on the checking line (that instantly becomes the best in the NHL), give Zajac some skill and scoring (Langs, Bergfors). Even if they dont produce as much as originally hoped, anything is better than 9 games without a point. Thats just insane.

You could make a case for Clarkson on the top line, its oldskool, its Devils. But where do you put Gionta??? So keep Clarkson on the 4th and let the 3 best skill players on the team thrive.

Clarkson is invisible, he can't skate with teams like montreal and pittsburgh there is no way he can play on the top line.

he is a fourth liner max right now. i agree with you about zubrus on checking line but this team is a forward/center short. and injury to either elias or parise and our season is over.

I think zajac is getting too much credit, he is horrible offensively lets not sugar coat this guy anymore.

he is solid in the defensive zone which is a plus but this team needed another center and was not able to get one at the deadline.

zajac and zubrus bring zero offensive to this team.

Zajac and Zubrus together bring nothing offensive to this team. Too similar.

Split them up.

Yeah Zubrus and Zajac are officially contributing nothing to the team right now. We need some secondary scoring and they haven't stepped up. For all this talk about how phyisical Zubrus is, we're still paying him 3.4 million to chip in offensively. And Zajac needs to hit the weight room during the offseason. He gets thrown off the puck way to easily for a guy who projects to be a power forward one day in his career. I wouldn't be opposed to seeing Clarkson play with Madden and Pandolfo again, and then put Gio with Zajac and Zubrus. But the problem we have right now is that we have 4 4th liners-Brylin, Asham, Rupp, and Clarkson-so 1 of these guys has to play top 9 minutes. That's why I'd like to see Bergfors get a chance because he immediately can impact the team with top 6-like offense.

i agree with this post, however i personally think asham can play on any line, he has enough speed and skill i think he could actually go on the first line with elias and parise, then we could move langs down the line and have a little more balance

asham is pretty skilled for a grinder type player, and this team needs balanced scoring

parise/elias/asham
then i have no clue after this

i agree with this post, however i personally think asham can play on any line, he has enough speed and skill i think he could actually go on the first line with elias and parise, then we could move langs down the line and have a little more balance

asham is pretty skilled for a grinder type player, and this team needs balanced scoring

parise/elias/asham
then i have no clue after this

I gotta admit, those two goals he scored against Ottawa were pretty damn good. I do remember Elias feeding Asham a couple of times in October too.

The problem is we only have one playmaker (Elias) and five finishers among our top six. Watching Zajac and Zubrus together makes me nauseous. They're both decent when they play with playmakers, but when you put two finishers like that together it's not going to work.

Parise-Elias-Bergfors
Gionta-Zajac-Langs
Pando-Madden-Zubrus
Rupp-Brylin-Clarkson

Say what you want about his season down in Lowell, Bergfors has skill. There's no denying that he has offensive flair. I'd love to see what putting him with our 2 best offensive players could do.

I brought this up in another thread...they moved Zajac, Elias, Madden, Parise, Zubrus, Rupp, Brylin, Clarkson, Pelley, and Asham to different positions at one point or another this year. Let's try Gio on the off-wing and see what happens. Zajac is given 2 great wingers, and Gio is given a player with a cannon so he can get some garbage goals. It might force some creativity out of Gio as well, since his forehand would be away from the boards.

Zubrus looked excellent with Madden and Pando earlier in the year. As mentioned, this would easily become the best checking line in the league as well.

At this point I'd rather have Rupp in over Asham. His and Clarkson's size could compensate for Brylin's lack of size.

i agree with this post, however i personally think asham can play on any line, he has enough speed and skill i think he could actually go on the first line with elias and parise, then we could move langs down the line and have a little more balance

asham is pretty skilled for a grinder type player, and this team needs balanced scoring

parise/elias/asham
then i have no clue after this

I can see that because I think that Sutter is running out of ideas to get the 2 Z's going. They are really starting to frustrate me. And I'll keep bringing up Zubrus's contract until he starts putting up points. Because at this point, he's bascially the Lithuanina version of Mike Rupp-just a tad bit more skilled. Just stick Zubrus on the Madden line.

I really don't think Vrana plays like Brylin at all. I think he has by far superior skills and more speed. I think he is more comparable Saku Koivu, obviously not as good as Saku was in his prime but something similar.

I can see that because I think that Sutter is running out of ideas to get the 2 Z's going. They are really starting to frustrate me. And I'll keep bringing up Zubrus's contract until he starts putting up points. Because at this point, he's bascially the Lithuanina version of Mike Rupp-just a tad bit more skilled. Just stick Zubrus on the Madden line.

Zubrus needs to shoot more.

Its probably against Sutter's demands, but our forwards and even d-men need to take risky chances in the offensive zone to make things happen.

i agree with this post, however i personally think asham can play on any line, he has enough speed and skill i think he could actually go on the first line with elias and parise, then we could move langs down the line and have a little more balance

asham is pretty skilled for a grinder type player, and this team needs balanced scoring

parise/elias/asham
then i have no clue after this

agreed, most of ashams goals were when he was out w/ either parise or elias, take a look at ashams highlights on his player page at nhl.com , and also the GWG he had early against the pens those were the 3 forwards on the ice..........unfortunately idk if sutter will break up madden, pando, and gio b/c he seems to like them together, though i wanna see what zubes can do w/ them. then id like to see gio shifted to the left side so he cant take his stupid shot down the right side into the goalies chest, and it may force him to crash the net more and imo zajac should go back to center. i said it earlier in this thread, heres some combos that havent been tried yet:

parise-elias-asham
gionta-zajac-langenbrunner
pandolfo-madden-zubrus
brylin-rupp-clarkson

Zubrus needs to shoot more.

Yes he should. Unfortunately, when he works down low, many times he looks like a basketball center backing down the defender ready to do a post up layup. :shakehead

Yes he should. Unfortunately, when he works down low, many times he looks like a basketball center backing down the defender ready to do a post up layup. :shakehead

He has so much potential, shoot the puck! :shakehead

Agree with you all, Zubie has the most potential on the team whos incredibly underachieving this season. He could be in our top 5 scorers.

Tallackson should be recalled and play in place of Rupp. Barry at least has a scorer's touch around the net.

Tallackson should be recalled and play in place of Rupp. Barry at least has a scorer's touch around the net.

We need more scoring really, not another grinder. If Barry can show his scoring touch he has shown down in the AHL this year, then heck yeah. Anything to wake up our snoozing offense.

Makes you wonder why we let Voros go, he would be much better than Rupp and Asham right now.

7 goals and 7 assists, -7. Whilst tormenting other teams top lines. Miles ahead of Mikey "2003" Rupp.

Rupp, 2 goals 1 assist. -10. Hey Lou, I thought you wanted an at least mediocre 4th line this season???

My dramatic changes to our team.

Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Elias - Vrana - Gionta
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson

We may be smaller at center but atleast we have some guys who can control the pace and make a pass.

My dramatic changes to our team.

Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Elias - Vrana - Gionta
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson

We may be smaller at center but atleast we have some guys who can control the pace and make a pass.

Nice lines, but I would be hesitant to put Vrana at center, maybe put him at LW with Elias, otherwise I like it.

Also, I would probably play Asham over Rupp.

This team needs an offensive shakeup. TG made a comment on his blog that if the team deemed Vrana ready, he would be up over Pelley. If Rodney frickin Pelley is considered more NHL ready than Lowells top offensive forward this season, then I will eat my hat and have a nice cup of tea with a monkey, all the while having a conversation on how the Queen of England could probably contribute more to our offense than Mike Rupp.

I really don't think Vrana plays like Brylin at all. I think he has by far superior skills and more speed. I think he is more comparable Saku Koivu, obviously not as good as Saku was in his prime but something similar.

I agree. Can control the pace when he's playing well. Extremely quick hands.

Tallackson should be recalled and play in place of Rupp. Barry at least has a scorer's touch around the net.

Tallackson has proved on many occasions that he can't score while with the big boys.

Tallackson has proved on many occasions that he can't score while with the big boys.

Seriously we've given him like 157438394720 chances.

Nice lines, but I would be hesitant to put Vrana at center, maybe put him at LW with Elias, otherwise I like it.

Also, I would probably play Asham over Rupp.

This team needs an offensive shakeup. TG made a comment on his blog that if the team deemed Vrana ready, he would be up over Pelley. If Rodney frickin Pelley is considered more NHL ready than Lowells top offensive forward this season, then I will eat my hat and have a nice cup of tea with a monkey, all the while having a conversation on how the Queen of England could probably contribute more to our offense than Mike Rupp.
TG is wrong here, Pelley is up for insurance...they would take Vrana up not to play. New Jersey hasn't even given this kid a sniff. For someone they were really high on in the draft and who is playing so well this season. It surprises me.

Pelley was re-called today, so I guess he might be in on one of the lines...who comes out of the lineup then? Rupp? Asham? Clarkson?

MY GUESS IS EITHER ZAJAC OR CLARKSON ARE SITTING.

[QUOTE=Jason MacIsaac;13055368]My dramatic changes to our team.

Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Elias - Vrana - Gionta
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Brylin - Clarkson

Looks Good To Me.
I think that the Devils are missing some creativity on the offensive end. If Vrana can play creative and pass the puck to a teammate then I would like to see Vrana recalled.

With the way Zubrus and Zajac have been playing, they should be on the 4th line. Too bad we have a bunch of guys that already fill that role averagely, though.

We have scored 10 goals in 7 games since the deadline, 4 of the goals coming in one game!? This is ****ing ridiculous!

Lou had one major issue to fix at the deadline and he failed! I'm sick and tired of seeing this team get shutout this season! :rant:

Makes you wonder why we let Voros go, he would be much better than Rupp and Asham right now.

7 goals and 7 assists, -7. Whilst tormenting other teams top lines. Miles ahead of Mikey "2003" Rupp.

Rupp, 2 goals 1 assist. -10. Hey Lou, I thought you wanted an at least mediocre 4th line this season???

voros was playing on the wild top line, your bound to get some points playing on there top line.

We have scored 10 goals in 7 games since the deadline, 4 of the goals coming in one game!? This is ****ing ridiculous!

Lou had one major issue to fix at the deadline and he failed! I'm sick and tired of seeing this team get shutout this season! :rant:

God damn it, do you not read threads? He tried for Hossa, he tried hard but wasn't willing to match the ransom the Penguins gave up to get him.

God damn it, do you not read threads? He tried for Hossa, he tried hard but wasn't willing to match the ransom the Penguins gave up to get him.

there are other players besides hossa..i have to say, i am deeply disappointed that he didn't deal one of our 9 d-men

there are other players besides hossa..i have to say, i am deeply disappointed that he didn't deal one of our 9 d-men

Tell me sir, which player would you have preferred? Richards was the only offensive forward to go besides Hossa. And we had no chance for him. Lou tried to trade one of the 9, and just couldn't get the right combo.

I think that throwing Vrana on the second line is to much for him because he will be new to the devils and i think that could possibley hurt gionta more than it has. what i would do is put parise to the second line with him gionta and zajac because they can be a very good line. I always liked zubs with elias because he his a pretty good positional player and elias is skilled enough to find him ans he does have a wicked shot

God damn it, do you not read threads? He tried for Hossa, he tried hard but wasn't willing to match the ransom the Penguins gave up to get him.

Like Hossa was the only guy out there....Lou didn't try hard enough. I'm not saying I wanted Hossa, but he could've easily had Prospal or Lang. They would've helped too.

Like Hossa was the only guy out there....Lou didn't try hard enough. I'm not saying I wanted Hossa, but he could've easily had Prospal or Lang. They would've helped too.

You wanted Lang at 4.2 million for next season? What are you? Mental? Prospal would've been nice, sure, but maybe Tampa didn't want to trade with us?

Like Hossa was the only guy out there....Lou didn't try hard enough. I'm not saying I wanted Hossa, but he could've easily had Prospal or Lang. They would've helped too.

Yeah not a huge Lang fan. I heard we were going after O'Sullivan.

Yeah not a huge Lang fan. I heard we were going after O'Sullivan.

Would have been tough to get GM DL to part with Mr. O'Sullivan.

You wanted Lang at 4.2 million for next season? What are you? Mental? Prospal would've been nice, sure, but maybe Tampa didn't want to trade with us?

What are you? Twelve?

Maybe I like Lang and I think he could've helped. He might not be the ideal acquisition, but what could be worse than what we have right now?

Why wouldn't Tampa want do trade with us? If Lou had given them a good offer they would've accepted it I'm sure.

What are you? Twelve?

Maybe I like Lang and I think he could've helped. He might not be the ideal acquisition, but what could be worse than what we have right now?

Why wouldn't Tampa want do trade with us? If Lou had given them a good offer they would've accepted it I'm sure.

Maybe Lou said hey tubby, here's what we'll give you and hurt Feaster's feelings so tubby said no? If you like Lang then I'd say you are mental. I would in no way want that man on this team if he's going to take up 4 million in cap space and he wouldn't have helped this team anyways.

Like Hossa was the only guy out there....Lou didn't try hard enough. I'm not saying I wanted Hossa, but he could've easily had Prospal or Lang. They would've helped too.

Lang barely helps us this year and totally hurts us next year. But we could've used prospal. We could've done Greene and a 3rd which is basically what Philly did.

He has so much potential, shoot the puck! :shakehead

I know, I know, he's really starting to frustate me.:rant:

I think Sutter needs to stop changing the lines as much and focus on changing the team's approach to the game. The team has the talent to make something happen when players drive to the net. Yet, the team tends to take shots from farther away. I really think Sutter needs to have the Devils practice crashing the net and similar plays rather than having the offense rely so much on counter attacking.

But then, this has been an issue since...1995? I wouldn't expect one player or one coach to make it all change, not even this season.

It's unbelievable what you people expected out of Lou at the deadline. Lang at $4.2M next season would be a bloody disaster, tying our hands and, frankly, he's never produced in the playoffs. Detroit hated him for a reason. Prospal would have been a decent addition, but acquiring him would have taken a Corrente, Eckford, or Tulupov - and frankly, I'm not willing to give up one of those three for a rental. Not a chance. Lou apparently tried for Hossa and I'm thankful that he failed, because it would have been a disaster in the long run and Hossa is another player who's historically been unable to produce during crunch time.

We simply do not have the assets to acquire names at the deadline. We don't have them, unless you're willing to take our hands and tie them together for the next three years. We've had our hands tied for the last three years and just got untied following the Mogilny/Malakhov/McGillis disaster. Do you really want to revisit that?

The trade deadline is history and people need to get over it.

But a spark has to come from somewhere now. It would suck if the pressure fell on the shoulders of a young prospect (not a Lou kinda move anyway) but from where? What other options are there? Creativity needs to be added or forget the 2nd round exit, it be the 1st this year. They can't even get the 1 let alone 2 goals that Marty needs to win on most nights.:help: