What's our lineup in 2008/09 ???

I know it's kind of early but I was looking at a couple of things and I noticed that Lou could or couldn't pick up the 1.5M$ option on Brylin next year and that 4 of our d-men are turning UFA at the end of the year (Salvador, Rachunek, Mottau and Brookbank). I triple checked and Vishnevski isn't turning UFA this summer :cry:.

Will Lou resign Brylin, will he bring in a strong UFA forward so our scoring goes up, will he go after a puck moving d-men or does he do what Lou does best every summer... not much !!!

here's a list of available UFA's... http://www.nhlnumbers.com/freeagents.php

As long as Pandolfo stays I'm not worried about a thing:)

I doubt Rachunek re-signs unless we win a cup (although I hope he stays). I see everyone else staying on D (with movement quite possible with Vish). Salvador would be silly not to stay at least a year and learn from Larry but I don't know his character that well, but given his statements from the trade, I think he's Devils caliber.

Other than him I say everyone stays except Asham at forward. I doubt Asham wants to continue in his role here with such limited ice time. Brylin's option is picked up and extended, Pando signs for a large contract he has well deserved, and Lou signs both Gionta and Madden to contract extensions early in the season.

Matvichuk, Rasmussen, Marshall, and Moran all fade away into the sunset and off the books out of Lowell - and a ton of the RFA's are signed for 1-3 year extensions on the cheap.

I expect 1 new name over the summer in a forward position in a trade/UFA signing but not really a Tier 1 player - more of a 2nd line type.

i think it could go like this...

Z. Parise - P. Vrana - J. Langenbrunner

D. Zubrus - T. Zajac - N. Bergfors

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - D. Clarkson

.......................can`t think of anyone to post for 4th line

i think it could go like this...

Z. Parise - P. Vrana - J. Langenbrunner

D. Zubrus - T. Zajac - N. Bergfors

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - D. Clarkson

.......................can`t think of anyone to post for 4th line

Elias?

i think it could go like this...

Z. Parise - P. Vrana - J. Langenbrunner

D. Zubrus - T. Zajac - N. Bergfors

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - D. Clarkson

.......................can`t think of anyone to post for 4th line

I almost cried a lil for patty. Boy, I hope you were joking or something.

There will be like two changes: a different 4th liner and a new defencemen that's a 3rd pairing

I almost cried a lil for patty. Boy, I hope you were joking or something.

No doubt - are you predicting a plane crash for Gionta and Elias or something?!?! :rant:

No doubt - are you predicting a plane crash for Gionta and Elias or something?!?! :rant:

Jesus, I didnt realise he had no Gio in the lineup either, he must be joking. Very badly.

Jesus, I didnt realise he had no Gio in the lineup either, he must be joking. Very badly.

I hope he was because that team stinks.

I would like the Devils to acquire Kristian Huselius via free agency, is this realistic with the cap???

Huselius - Zajac - Bergfors???? :sarcasm:

Zubrus on the RW???

Im glad im not Lou.

I would like the Devils to acquire Kristian Huselius via free agency, is this realistic with the cap???

Huselius - Zajac - Bergfors???? :sarcasm:

Zubrus on the RW???

Im glad im not Lou.

So am I....:sarcasm:


j/k... j/k... :naughty:

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

So am I....:sarcasm:


j/k... j/k... :naughty:

I know, I know....... :(

But, if the team stays the same, I wont be too bothered, just aslong as the squad in its current state doesnt get bounced in the 2nd round!!!

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

Well if your that old and play hockey, I guess you know what you are talking about.

i think it could go like this...

Z. Parise - P. Vrana - J. Langenbrunner

D. Zubrus - T. Zajac - N. Bergfors

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - D. Clarkson

.......................can`t think of anyone to post for 4th line
pelley?

i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

I imagine you're also pretty good with nunchuks.

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

Elias - No Trade Clause

and our defensmen are pretty good : Oduya, White, Martin. but ya we really need to git rid of Vishnevski and rachunek. While we have two promising defencmen in Corrente and Eckford. but we should pick up a defencmen for the 3rd pairing.

oh yea, u got me there. i forgot about that. oh well we would gain more if he would waive it but we don`t lose anything by keeping him.

I won't pretend to make up lines, but...

Top 6 Forwards:
Elias
Parise
Madden
Langenbrunner
Gionta
Zubrus

Bottom 6 Forwards:
Zajac
Clarkson
Rupp
Pandolfo
Bergfors (I hope)
[Need 3rd Line RW - Palmieri?]

Reserve Forwards:
Brylin
Pelley

Defensemen... lots. Need to get rid of some.

Offensive Defensemen:
Martin
Greene
Corrente
Oduya
Mottau

Defensive Defensemen:
White
Salvador (I hope)
Vishnevski (Sigh)
Brookbank

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

Tee-hee
http://www.threadbombing.com/data/thumbnails/18/iloldcat.jpg

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

I know that Gionta is having a rough year but that's because he needs a puck feeding centermen... wich we don't have at the moment. Instead of subtracting Gionta from our lineup maybe Lou can find one this summer.

Elias is playing like the Patty of old and he isn't going anywere. Sutter took away the C from Patrick because he wasn't the right guy for it. It doesn't mean that the guy sucks... it just means that he isn't the leader the organisation (or Muttley :sarcasm:)thought he was.

clarkson should`nt be classified in the bottom six, hes on a checking but is puting up decent points for a free agent pick up..

clarkson should`nt be classified in the bottom six, hes on a checking but is puting up decent points for a free agent pick up..
There is no way David Clarkson is in our top-6. We don't have that many offensive problems.

clarkson should`nt be classified in the bottom six, hes on a checking but is puting up decent points for a free agent pick up..

Does he beat out Gio, Zubrus, Zajac, Langs (Patty and Zach are obvious) for top 6 minutes???

Clarkson needs to be on the Maddolfo wing, im not a huge fan of Gio on that line, but considering Zajac and Zubrus cant buy points, he needs to stay there.

I won't pretend to make up lines, but...

Reserve Forwards:
Brylin


Why keep Brylin as a reserve if we're going to pay the guy 1.5M$ ???

Why keep Brylin as a reserve if we're going to pay the guy 1.5M$ ???
Who said I was going to pay him $1.5M? Decline the option and resign him for less.

Wait a second, he doesn't have an option, does he. The option was for two seasons. Hmmm... regardless, unless you're going to trade him, we're keeping him. And I'm not going to trade Sarge.

Just a wild prediction....

Parise-Elias-Bergfors
Zubrus-Zajac-Lanbenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Gionta
Brylin-Pelley-Clarkson

Very similar to this year, plus the addition of Bergfors....I think that could be a very creative first line. I wouldn't mind seeing Vrana get some time. Don't know where, though. Maybe for Pelley?

idk if this sounds stupid but, backstrom is putting up big numbers in his rookie year so far...now i dont think washington would trade him, but if we convinced elias he would get the chance to play and have career high seasons with ovechkin, he would waive.

Just a wild prediction....

Parise-Elias-Bergfors
Zubrus-Zajac-Lanbenbrunner
Pandolfo-Madden-Gionta
Brylin-Pelley-Clarkson

Very similar to this year, plus the addition of Bergfors....I think that could be a very creative first line. I wouldn't mind seeing Vrana get some time. Don't know where, though. Maybe for Pelley?
Sigh.

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

Martin - Corrente
Oduya - White
Greene - Salvador
Brookbank

Brodeur
Weekes

Who said I was going to pay him $1.5M? Decline the option and resign him for less.

Wait a second, he doesn't have an option, does he. The option was for two seasons. Hmmm... regardless, unless you're going to trade him, we're keeping him. And I'm not going to trade Sarge.

Yes he has an option - it's a two way option for 1 more year.

idk if this sounds stupid but, backstrom is putting up big numbers in his rookie year so far...now i dont think washington would trade him, but if we convinced elias he would get the chance to play and have career high seasons with ovechkin, he would waive.
http://www.threadbombing.com/data/thumbnails/18/iloldcat.jpgagain

Elias is a Devil 'til he dies.
Elias>>>Backstrom

Yes he has an option - it's a two way option for 1 more year.
Oh. Then decline and resign him for less. If he moves on... he moves on.

Who said I was going to pay him $1.5M? Decline the option and resign him for less.

Wait a second, he doesn't have an option, does he. The option was for two seasons. Hmmm... regardless, unless you're going to trade him, we're keeping him. And I'm not going to trade Sarge.

That's why I was asking the board if it would be a good thing for us to be picking up his option year at 1.5M$ if he's gonna be playing on our 4th line or do we give the chance to younger players like Bergfors and Pelley.

Parise - Backstrom - Bergfors
Zajac - Vrana - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

Does he beat out Gio, Zubrus, Zajac, Langs (Patty and Zach are obvious) for top 6 minutes???

Clarkson needs to be on the Maddolfo wing, im not a huge fan of Gio on that line, but considering Zajac and Zubrus cant buy points, he needs to stay there.

Why debate... consult the GURU on the NHL - Yahoo sports.

:biglaugh:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s93/vagel117/Untitled-1-6.jpg

Parise - Backstrom - Bergfors
Zajac - Vrana - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson
What is your fascination with Vrana?

What is your fascination with Vrana?

They have the same birthday... :D

i switched zajac to left wing, because his point production would increase. being a winger is easier than a center. i just dont know if he shoots left or right.

i just dont know if he shoots left or right.

[/analysis career]

because i have went to alot of lowell games and i have seen this guy. he has soft hands and speed, as well he is a playmaker. which would solve zajacs production.

Parise - Backstrom - Bergfors
Zajac - Vrana - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

I choked on my crumpets.

Backstrom is having a great rookie year with the leagues best player on his left, next season I could see him eclipsing 100 points. Caps laugh, hard.

Parise - Backstrom - Bergfors
Zajac - Vrana - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Brylin - Pelley - Clarkson

I think my avatar gave you weird ideas !!! How did we get Backstrom ??? This isn't NHL '08 and there's NO WAY Washington gives up Backstrom... NO WAY !!! Why not add Gionta and ask for Ovechkin. If the Caps decline the trade you can always add our 1st round pick :sarcasm:

Sigh.

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

Martin - Corrente
Oduya - White
Greene - Salvador
Brookbank

Brodeur
Weekes

I like this line up best.

OT but am I the only one that is obsessed with Tegan and Sara?

I like this line up best.

OT but am I the only one that is obsessed with Tegan and Sara?
I also like... assuming we're actually going to roll four lines...

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

Martin - Corrente
Oduya - White
Greene - Salvador
Brookbank


Could Corrente handle first pairing minutes?? I know the kid has talent, but it seems like it could be a reach. I would love it if he did emerge as a quality defenseman.

I would like to see...

Oduya - Martin
White - Corrente
Salvador - Greene
Brookbank, Fraser, Mottau.

That 2nd pairing would be a biatch to play agaisnt.

I also like... assuming we're actually going to roll four lines...

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

I like that too, mostly due to the chemistry between Zach, Travis and Jamie. It seems like a sin not to have Elias on the first line though, but I guess he's gotta earn his keep.

Trade elias and gionta

Another forward lineup, just throwing it out there. :naughty:

Parise - Elias - Langenbrunner

Zubrus - Zajac - Bergfors

Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta

Vrana - Rupp/Brylin - Clarkson

Trade elias and gionta

Not going to happen. Who would want that salary?
That's like paying $20.00 USD for a baloney sandwich when there's a perfectly good Quizno's right down the street!

Looking back over my posts, boy does my talent analysis suck.

Lou and Sutter are going to have some tough decisions to make in the summer.

Trade elias and gionta

We're 1 point away from 1st place in the Eastern Conference with Gionta having a off year and Elias woke up about 1 month ago. Don't you think we'd be a better team by ADDING a playmaker alongside Gionta rather then SUBTRACTING him from our lineup ???

Is this you Muttley ???

I also like... assuming we're actually going to roll four lines...

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

If we're going to pay Dainus Zubrus 3.4 million dollars to play the 4th line, we shoud move him. It's a complete waste of money for him to play 10 minutes a night at that salary.

As for my predicitions:

Stay:
Pandolfo
Salvador
Brookbank

Go:
Brylin (I'm not willing to have his 1.5 million salary be dead weight in the press box)
Vishnevski (dump him for a bag of pucks, anything)
Rachunek (too many defensman)
Asham

Unsure:
Mottau (I'd rather bring in somebody better, but he's a decent fall back)

Parise-Elias-Langenbrunner/Bergfors
Pandolfo-Madden-Gionta
Zubrus-Zajac-UFA/Langenbrunner
Rupp-Pelley-Clarkson

Martin-Oduya
White-Corrente
Salvador-Greene
Brookbank

If Lou deems Bergfors ready, we won't sign a UFA winger, but if he thinks he's not, I can see Lou going after a guy to play with the two Z's.

Trade elias and gionta
No trade clause.

If we're going to pay Dainus Zubrus 3.4 million dollars to play the 4th line, we shoud move him. It's a complete waste of money for him to play 10 minutes a night at that salary.

As for my predicitions:

Stay:
Pandolfo
Salvador
Brookbank

Go:
Brylin (I'm not willing to have his 1.5 million salary be dead weight in the press box)
Vishnevski (dump him for a bag of pucks, anything)
Rachunek (too many defensman)
Asham

Unsure:
Mottau (I'd rather bring in somebody better, but he's a decent fall back)

Parise-Elias-Langenbrunner/Bergfors
Pandolfo-Madden-Gionta
Zubrus-Zajac-UFA/Langenbrunner
Rupp-Pelley-Clarkson

Martin-Oduya
White-Corrente
Salvador-Greene
Brookbank

If Lou deems Bergfors ready, we won't sign a UFA winger, but if he thinks he's not, I can see Lou going after a guy to play with the two Z's.
I did say that lineup suggestion was assuming we roll four lines. As in, actually roll four lines.

Heres what I would like to see :

Forwards

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

Clarke or Vrana

Defense

White - Mottau
Oduya - Martin
Greene - Salvador

Corrente or Brookbank

Don't resign Rachunek, Asham, move Vishnevski

I would keep Brylin because that 1.5 mil dead weight becomes gold when one of our guys get injured. He can cover for anybody.

If not, then I still would rather see Clarke or Vrana given a chance to make training camp as well as Bergfors. Also would like to see if theres any hope for Fraser and see if Corrente is really ready.

trade elias and gionta for backstrom and someone else with a fairly large salary. im willing to be tight to the salary cap to have backstrom, plus he would be a good playmaker with fellow swede bergfors.

trade elias and gionta for backstrom and someone else with a fairly large salary. im willing to be tight to the salary cap to have backstrom, plus he would be a good playmaker with fellow swede bergfors.
Why would Washington trade Backstrom?

Why would Washington trade Backstrom?

More to the point, why trade Elias, who finally seems to be over Julienball, for a player who doesnt know our system, and could very well be a product of Ovechkin (highly unlikely I know).

Makes no sense to trade Elias or Gionta.

Why would Washington trade Backstrom?

And why would he have amazing chemistry with Bergfors? Yeah, he's gonna turn Bergfors into an 80 point player. Some people need to face it, Bergfors *could* be a good player at the NHL level, not a great one. BUT, it's also possible his only contribution as a Devil will be blinding Colin White.

trade elias and gionta for backstrom and someone else with a fairly large salary. im willing to be tight to the salary cap to have backstrom, plus he would be a good playmaker with fellow swede bergfors.

I suppose we should trade Parise and Brodeur to Minnesota for Gaborik?

ur right we r screwed for centers. Actually Maxim Suave is supposed to be good. he plays in the quebec hockey league and the devils are in a position to select him.

I'd rather we used our draft pick on Joey Joe-Joe Junior Shabadoo

I'd rather we used our draft pick on Joey Joe-Joe Junior Shabadoo

That's the stupidest name I've ever heard.

Our forwards are not that bad, they are still developing. Elias is showing that he's better at center, and Gionta is starting to pick it up again. I think now that they've adjusted to this system they will be great.

Parise is already on his way to past his scoring from last year. Zajac will hopefully be out of that sophmore slump. I'm more concerned about whether or not Zubrus will ever produce more than he is now.

Madden and Pandolfo are our workhorses and reliable I wouldn't trade them for anything. Brylin is the ultimate backup guy who can play every position.

That leaves rookies like Pelley, Clarkson and Vrana to step up. Or we can go with Clarke, who scored in his first game with the Devils and maybe has that scoring touch that we need. He does have problems with his defensive game though but as a winger maybe that won't be so bad.

I'm not sure about Bergfors, he showed alot of potential but also showed that he's soft. He's nothing like Elias who can take a few hits. If he can show some grit then he would be a valuable addition to this team, he does have one heck of a wrist shot.

Our forwards are not that bad, they are still developing. Elias is showing that he's better at center, and Gionta is starting to pick it up again. I think now that they've adjusted to this system they will be great.

Parise is already on his way to past his scoring from last year. Zajac will hopefully be out of that sophmore slump. I'm more concerned about whether or not Zubrus will ever produce more than he is now.

Madden and Pandolfo are our workhorses and reliable I wouldn't trade them for anything. Brylin is the ultimate backup guy who can play every position.

That leaves rookies like Pelley, Clarkson and Vrana to step up. Or we can go with Clarke, who scored in his first game with the Devils and maybe has that scoring touch that we need. He does have problems with his defensive game though but as a winger maybe that won't be so bad.

I'm not sure about Bergfors, he showed alot of potential but also showed that he's soft. He's nothing like Elias who can take a few hits. If he can show some grit then he would be a valuable addition to this team, he does have one heck of a wrist shot.
Clarke is our new Craig Darby. He's career AHL.

I just don't see Vrana as a top two center and with the season Bergfors is having in Lowell, I'm not convinced he will be ready....Hope I'm wrong. Devs may have to sign a UFA winger. I would like to keep Salvador, he seems to get better with every game and hopefully Corrente can make the team. I also wouldn't mind a 4th line of Palmaeri - Pelley- Clarkson, although David seems to play better when he's on the top three lines. Love Sarge, but it may be time for him to hang them up. He just stops on a dime whenever he faces some contact. He's like the old running back who lost his legs, no more drive and I mean in his legs, not his heart, which is big.

trade elias and gionta for backstrom and someone else with a fairly large salary. im willing to be tight to the salary cap to have backstrom, plus he would be a good playmaker with fellow swede bergfors.

This is the 4th time you've suggested that the Devils trade away Elias and Gionta for Backstrom.

1st point

Why would Washington trade away a 20 year old centermen that is leading all rookies in points with 58 points in 68 games ???

2nd point

Why would Washington gain about 10M$ of salary beetween Elias and Gionta alone when they can just keep Backstrom and give that money to a UFA like Hossa ???

3rd point

Why would Lou trade away Elias and Gionta, who are two of our top 6 players for one guy ???

4th point

This proposal is even worst then a... Halak + Ryder + 1st round pick Vs Lecavalier

That's the stupidest name I've ever heard.

*runs away*

you would think it was the off season with all the attention someone's comments are receiving who think Elias and Gionta should be gone and Vrana is their replacement even though he doesn't know whether Zajac shoots left or right. :surrender

what day is it - did someone slip me a mickey?

ps - he shoots right - thus his switch to right wing from center tonight.

Instead of impossibles like Backstrom, how about bringing back Brian Rolston who's UFA?

Instead of impossibles like Backstrom, how about bringing back Brian Rolston who's UFA?

Devils are stacked at RW.

I would rather they try to sign a LW scoring threat. This team is in desperate need of another 30 goal scorer.

Instead of impossibles like Backstrom, how about bringing back Brian Rolston who's UFA?

Rolston would be a good pickup but I'd like to see someone like Langkow sign during the off season. He's a playmaking center that can help Gionta and won't come at a high price i.m.o.

Devils are stacked at RW.

I would rather they try to sign a LW scoring threat. This team is in desperate need of another 30 goal scorer.

We have room for him if we keep Zubrus at RW. Rolston would look nice with Zubrus and Zajac.

The list says Rolston is a UFA. Should we go after him and give a one year deal.

We have room for him if we keep Zubrus at RW. Rolston would look nice with Zubrus and Zajac.

Cant say I disagree, a nice physical line, that can pot a few when needed.

Zubrus has played his best hockey on the RW in his career, its his natural position afterall, its no real surprise he scored 3 goals whilst on Maddens right. Zajac will be out of his sophomore slump next season, im pretty sure of that, and Rolston would be that 30 goal guy.

Trouble is, would he want to come back to NJ???

The list says Rolston is a UFA. Should we go after him and give a one year deal.

Why not? We traded him away for a bag of pucks.

Cant say I disagree, a nice physical line, that can pot a few when needed.

Zubrus has played his best hockey on the RW in his career, its his natural position afterall, its no real surprise he scored 3 goals whilst on Maddens right. Zajac will be out of his sophomore slump next season, im pretty sure of that, and Rolston would be that 30 goal guy.

Trouble is, would he want to come back to NJ???

Not too mention that he instantly upgrades the PP with that absolute missle of a shot.

But my guess is that he stays in Minny.

Devils are stacked at RW.

I would rather they try to sign a LW scoring threat. This team is in desperate need of another 30 goal scorer.

Devils are known for playing guys all over the place (Inter-changeable Parts). And didn't Rolston play center for us.

The list says Rolston is a UFA. Should we go after him and give a one year deal.

I'd imagine several other teams wouldn't hesistate to give him a multiyear deal. I'd love to see Rolston back, but I wouldn't expect it by any means. Rolston probably is looking to recoup some money since he was one of a few guys who signed a multiyear deal prior to the lockout and has played the last 3 years at 24% less than he thought he'd be making. This is probably his last chance to a big payday, so I'm doubting a one year deal gets it done.

instead of trying to trade for backstrom to play with bergfors, we should trade bergfors to washington for a a player like Alzner, i know it wouldnt be 1 for 1 but its more realistic that Elias & Gio for Backstrom, think Washington would deal Alzner?

Just think, we traded Rolston for Lemieux after we just let Lemieux walk. That cost us going to the playoffs in 1996 and a cup in 2001 because Colorado traded Rolston and others for Borque.

I also like... assuming we're actually going to roll four lines...

Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Bergfors - Elias - Gionta
Pandolfo - Madden - Pelley
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson
Brylin
I think our lineup will look something like this also. maybe one FA signing, but Zubs And Clarkson will be rotated around the lineup again. We still do not have any set lines. and i really do not see any that stick out as something that will stay together for any long period of time. Nothing really excites me....A Quality TRUE center (not Elias/Zubs) would be Real Nice...

Trade elias and gionta

No, Not going to happen. You may play and Know the game, but you can't be serious with this....
I also play and Know the Game, and can tell you this will Never happen.
No way washington trades away Backstrom, Semin, or Ovy. Come on Now...


Our forwards are not that bad, they are still developing. Elias is showing that he's better at center, and Gionta is starting to pick it up again. I think now that they've adjusted to this system they will be great.


Thank you Moon, i was just going to say that Both of them are heating up. Gio in the interview the other night was asked about him starting to put the puck in the net by getting Dirty. He agreed and said something to the fact that he is taking the beating and getting the hard goals. I still would like to Elias at the Wing, but he is producing now as he get more accustomed to the position.

This is the 4th time you've suggested that the Devils trade away Elias and Gionta for Backstrom.

1st point

Why would Washington trade away a 20 year old centermen that is leading all rookies in points with 58 points in 68 games ??? Agreed, no way they trade him...

2nd point

Why would Washington gain about 10M$ of salary beetween Elias and Gionta alone when they can just keep Backstrom and give that money to a UFA like Hossa ???

3rd point

Why would Lou trade away Elias and Gionta, who are two of our top 6 players for one guy ???

4th point

This proposal is even worst then a... Halak + Ryder + 1st round pick Vs Lecavalier
Agree with all of this.......


I wanted to comment, but there is a lot of chatter here that i can just Agree with or outright disagree....

I hate trying to predict what will happen next year, but i will say we will lose a few D men, and i would not Doubt if Salvador tries to re-sign with STL....But they may be in the same boat as us with some talented D in the waiting.

I'd imagine several other teams wouldn't hesistate to give him a multiyear deal. I'd love to see Rolston back, but I wouldn't expect it by any means. Rolston probably is looking to recoup some money since he was one of a few guys who signed a multiyear deal prior to the lockout and has played the last 3 years at 24% less than he thought he'd be making. This is probably his last chance to a big payday, so I'm doubting a one year deal gets it done.

Minny also has Demitra who's UFA as well, if Roston isn't 35 yet, I would give offer him a three year deal. Didn't Lou sign Vish for three years? Plus his speed fits into what Sutter likes and that's a good fore-check. And he has a good shot from the point.

Why not? We traded him away for a bag of pucks.
We traded him away for a Stanley Cup.

Just think, we traded Rolston for Lemieux after we just let Lemieux walk. That cost us going to the playoffs in 1996 and a cup in 2001 because Colorado traded Rolston and others for Borque.

And if Claude doesn't score in Game 6 against the Flyers? Then there's some bizarro
alternate universe where Eric Lindros scores an OT goal to win the series in a 1-0 game, recovers from his concussions and is still playing today, scoring 50+ goals a season because of the general wussyness of the "new" NHL.

instead of trying to trade for backstrom to play with bergfors, we should trade bergfors to washington for a a player like Alzner, i know it wouldnt be 1 for 1 but its more realistic that Elias & Gio for Backstrom, think Washington would deal Alzner?

I doubt Washington trades Alzner, especially for another "goal scoring" winger. If anything, Alzner gives them a potential shutdown top pairing defender who looks perfect to go along with Ovechkin/Backstrom/Semin/Green as their core.

I don't think I've mentioned this week that I would club a baby seal for Mike Green.

Just think, we traded Rolston for Lemieux after we just let Lemieux walk. That cost us going to the playoffs in 1996 and a cup in 2001 because Colorado traded Rolston and others for Borque.

The Rolston trade was prompted in part of the expansion draft that summer. Since Lemieux was UFA he didn't require a spot. And we traded Morrison/Pederson for Mogilny which also freed up a spot....back when Denis Pederson looked like a potential successor to Holik. We stood to lose a decent forward if we had kept Rolston most likely.

Plus I'm sure Colorado could have made the Bourque trade happen without Rolston (ie, maybe Deadmarsh going the other way).

As long as Pandolfo stays I'm not worried about a thing:)

Agreed. He has to stay.

I doubt Washington trades Alzner, especially for another "goal scoring" winger. If anything, Alzner gives them a potential shutdown top pairing defender who looks perfect to go along with Ovechkin/Backstrom/Semin/Green as their core.

I don't think I've mentioned this week that I would club a baby seal for Mike Green.

lol i knew Green would take a arm and leg so Alzner would only be the other player i would want,,, he would look nice in a devs jersey :naughty:

Based on what i've seen and their current production, any lineup that has Bergfors as a top 6 forward or Corrente as anything other than a 7th d-man is just wishful thinking. IMO, both would be well served spending 2008-09 in Lowell. On the other hand, I can't see how Vrana doesn't at least secure himself a full time position on the 4th line next year with the season he's had.

Also, I would love to see Salvador back.

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

Martin - Oduya
White - Hainsey
Mottau - Greene

Brodeur
Weekes

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

Martin - Oduya
White - Hainsey
Mottau - Greene

Brodeur
Weekes
That defense makes me awfully uncomfortable, Jason.

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

Martin - Oduya
White - Hainsey
Mottau - Greene

Brodeur
Weekes

Gotta agree with Classic, that defense is quite shaky.

And we can do MUCH better than Vrana on 1st line left wing. A true winger perhaps?

My reasoning:

Vrana played amazing on the left side of Olesz at the WJC, I feel its is his best possible position at the NHL level because of his size. He and Elias seem like similar players who will mesh on the ice and know where each other are on the ice. Gionta will get a lot of free chances on this line.

I think Zajac will come to camp stronger and faster, ready for the 2nd line duties. Parise will be better and more explosive. I just hope Langenbrunner is ready for next year, I think that may be when he finally starts to tail off a bit.

This line will be dominant at both ends of the puck in my opinion. Zubrus is great defensivly and will cycle the puck down low to an endless degree. Madden will be coming of his Selke season and Pandolfo should be healthy for the full year.

Our 4th line once again has little chemistry but loyalty will keep Brylin for one more year. Clarkson will start to get a few 2nd line PP minutes in front. Pelley and Bryln as a 3rd/2nd PK unit.

That defense makes me awfully uncomfortable, Jason.

What about this...

Martin - Oduya
B. Stuart - White
Greene - Salvador
Mottau

What about this...

Martin - Oduya
B. Stuart - White
Greene - Salvador
Mottau
The way Brad Stuart has played most of this season, I'd rather have Mottau.

Gotta agree with Classic, that defense is quite shaky.

And we can do MUCH better than Vrana on 1st line left wing. A true winger perhaps?
Its better then:

Martin Oduya
White Mottau
Green Brookbank Rachunek Vishnevski

Hainsey basicly knows the system as well playing in Columbus.

The way Brad Stuart has played most of this season, I'd rather have Mottau.

The guy played in L.A. this year, right ??? Last time I checked the standings, they were in a hunt for the Stamkos derby, so it's kind of normal that his stats aren't over the top. Stuart would be #2 behind Martin on our depth chart if you ask me. Let's stop thinking that guys like Mottau or Brookbank are something special... because they're not. Those kind of players are a dime a dozen in the NHL and anybody that has a average defensive game looks pretty good in our system.

I wouldn't mind signing Stuart for 3M$/year for 3 years but anything more then that wouldn't be worth it.

The guy played in L.A. this year, right ??? Last time I checked the standings, they were in a hunt for the Stamkos derby, so it's kind of normal that his stats aren't over the top. Stuart would be #2 behind Martin on our depth chart if you ask me. Let's stop thinking that guys like Mottau or Brookbank are something special... because they're not. Those kind of players are a dime a dozen in the NHL and anybody that has a average defensive game looks pretty good in our system.

I wouldn't mind signing Stuart for 3M$/year for 3 years but anything more then that wouldn't be worth it.
They traded him to Detroit at the deadline. Ask Los Angeles fans what they thought of Stuart's play this year.

They traded him to Detroit at the deadline. Ask Los Angeles fans what they thought of Stuart's play this year.

I know and that's exactly my point... he played 63 games for the Kings and I don't care who you are but when you're playing defense on the worst team in the entire league, you're not having a great year.

Crappy Brad Stuart >>>>>> Mottau, Brookbank, Vishnevsky and Rachunek

Parise(3.1)-Elias(6)-Langs(2.8)
Naslund(4.2)-Zajac(1)-Gio(4)
Pando(2)-Madden(2.9)-Zubrus(3.4)
Clarkson(1.0)-Pelley(.6)-Bergfors(.85)
Rupp(.5)
Martin(3.8)-White(3.0)
Oduya(.6)-Salvador(2.3)
Greene(.6)-Smith(2.5)
Brookbank(.6)
Brodeur(5.2)
Weekes(.7)

Let Rachunek, Mottau, Asham, and yes even Brylin walk. Brylin's lost a significant step and 1.5mil is just too steep a price to keep him around. Signing Naslund at this point I think could be a perfect acquisition for second line scoring. Sign him to about a 2 year deal worth around 4mil. He was given 6 million at a younger age and coming off an 80 point season. He's averaged 60 points the past 2 seasons, and will be 35. 4mil I think is fair for Naslund at this point.

Re-sign pando, re-sign Clarkson and Pelley to 2 year deals and bring in Bergfors finally to round out the 4th line. Another year down in the minors could be absolutely terrible for his development. I think it'd actually be better to even get 4th line minutes but be in the NHL than to spend another year down there.

As for the defense, I like what I've seen from Salvador so I'd like to see him back. Also, I'd love to see the devs bring back Jason Smith to give us 3 towers of power back there in White, Salvador, and Smith paired with 3 offensive dmen in Martin, Greene and Oduya. Signing Vishnevski at 1.8mil per year was not a good deal. Lou could right that wrong and trade Vish for a 4th rounder at this summer's draft. I'd really love our chances with that defence, especially if Oduya, Greene, and Martin can continue to take some steps forward.

That roster with those projected salaries (I think they're fair...) would work out to a cap hit of around 51mil. If the cap goes up to around 53mil like everyone is predicting, we'd still have about 2mil in cap space. To me, on paper at least, that'd look like the most balanced roster we'd ice in years.

Parise(3.1)-Elias(6)-Langs(2.8)
Naslund(4.2)-Zajac(1)-Gio(4)
Pando(2)-Madden(2.9)-Zubrus(3.4)
Clarkson(1.0)-Pelley(.6)-Bergfors(.85)
Rupp(.5)
Martin(3.8)-White(3.0)
Oduya(.6)-Salvador(2.3)
Greene(.6)-Smith(2.5)
Brookbank(.6)
Brodeur(5.2)
Weekes(.7)

Let Rachunek, Mottau, Asham, and yes even Brylin walk. Brylin's lost a significant step and 1.5mil is just too steep a price to keep him around. Signing Naslund at this point I think could be a perfect acquisition for second line scoring. Sign him to about a 2 year deal worth around 4mil. He was given 6 million at a younger age and coming off an 80 point season. He's averaged 60 points the past 2 seasons, and will be 35. 4mil I think is fair for Naslund at this point.

Re-sign pando, re-sign Clarkson and Pelley to 2 year deals and bring in Bergfors finally to round out the 4th line. Another year down in the minors could be absolutely terrible for his development. I think it'd actually be better to even get 4th line minutes but be in the NHL than to spend another year down there.

As for the defense, I like what I've seen from Salvador so I'd like to see him back. Also, I'd love to see the devs bring back Jason Smith to give us 3 towers of power back there in White, Salvador, and Smith paired with 3 offensive dmen in Martin, Greene and Oduya. Signing Vishnevski at 1.8mil per year was not a good deal. Lou could right that wrong and trade Vish for a 4th rounder at this summer's draft. I'd really love our chances with that defence, especially if Oduya, Greene, and Martin can continue to take some steps forward.

That roster with those projected salaries (I think they're fair...) would work out to a cap hit of around 51mil. If the cap goes up to around 53mil like everyone is predicting, we'd still have about 2mil in cap space. To me, on paper at least, that'd look like the most balanced roster we'd ice in years.

I'd rather have Rolston then Naslund if you ask me. Rolston knows the system (his coach is no other then Jacque Lemaire) he still skates pretty fast, he has a lazer of a shot and I think he'd come at a cheaper price then Naslund

I'd rather have Rolston then Naslund if you ask me. Rolston knows the system (his coach is no other then Jacque Lemaire) he still skates pretty fast, he has a lazer of a shot and I think he'd come at a cheaper price then Naslund

I thought about Rolston too, but I wasn't sure if Rolston ever played the left wing (although with Sutter I'm not sure it would matter)...

I doubt Naslund will ever be an 80 point player again. But he doesn't need to be. 25-30 goals and 30 assists is all we'd need from him on the second line. I also think his demeanor is perfect for this team. From what I know he's been a consummate professional on and off the ice in Vancouver.

my backstrom idea...okay was s***, but why is everyone writing off vrana and bergfors? vrana will make the team next year, i just can't believe fellow devil fans are so stubborn. if hes not on the top line he will be on the second. We are stacked with right wingers and i think we should sign vasyunov, see how he does with the team. he is not small, can through checks and score goals. if paired with vrana he will most likely produce 30 something goals. (sorry about posting all that stupid stuff on backstrom. i was just angry because my fantasy hockey team droped a spot)

my backstrom idea...okay was s***, but why is everyone writing off vrana and bergfors? vrana will make the team next year, i just can't believe fellow devil fans are so stubborn. if hes not on the top line he will be on the second. We are stacked with right wingers and i think we should sign vasyunov, see how he does with the team. he is not small, can through checks and score goals. if paired with vrana he will most likely produce 30 something goals. (sorry about posting all that stupid stuff on backstrom. i was just angry because my fantasy hockey team droped a spot)

He's not going to be centering the first or second or third line. Those positions are already filled with Elias, Madden, and Zajac. I can see Vrana making the team, but as a winger or 4th line center.

Parise(3.1)-Elias(6)-Langs(2.8)
Naslund(4.2)-Zajac(1)-Gio(4)
Pando(2)-Madden(2.9)-Zubrus(3.4)
Clarkson(1.0)-Pelley(.6)-Bergfors(.85)
Rupp(.5)
Martin(3.8)-White(3.0)
Oduya(.6)-Salvador(2.3)
Greene(.6)-Smith(2.5)
Brookbank(.6)
Brodeur(5.2)
Weekes(.7)

Let Rachunek, Mottau, Asham, and yes even Brylin walk. Brylin's lost a significant step and 1.5mil is just too steep a price to keep him around. Signing Naslund at this point I think could be a perfect acquisition for second line scoring. Sign him to about a 2 year deal worth around 4mil. He was given 6 million at a younger age and coming off an 80 point season. He's averaged 60 points the past 2 seasons, and will be 35. 4mil I think is fair for Naslund at this point.

Re-sign pando, re-sign Clarkson and Pelley to 2 year deals and bring in Bergfors finally to round out the 4th line. Another year down in the minors could be absolutely terrible for his development. I think it'd actually be better to even get 4th line minutes but be in the NHL than to spend another year down there.

As for the defense, I like what I've seen from Salvador so I'd like to see him back. Also, I'd love to see the devs bring back Jason Smith to give us 3 towers of power back there in White, Salvador, and Smith paired with 3 offensive dmen in Martin, Greene and Oduya. Signing Vishnevski at 1.8mil per year was not a good deal. Lou could right that wrong and trade Vish for a 4th rounder at this summer's draft. I'd really love our chances with that defence, especially if Oduya, Greene, and Martin can continue to take some steps forward.

That roster with those projected salaries (I think they're fair...) would work out to a cap hit of around 51mil. If the cap goes up to around 53mil like everyone is predicting, we'd still have about 2mil in cap space. To me, on paper at least, that'd look like the most balanced roster we'd ice in years.

A big, absolutely not, to Naslund. Talk about a guy falling off the face of the Earth since the lockout.

my backstrom idea...okay was s***, but why is everyone writing off vrana and bergfors? vrana will make the team next year, i just can't believe fellow devil fans are so stubborn. if hes not on the top line he will be on the second. We are stacked with right wingers and i think we should sign vasyunov, see how he does with the team. he is not small, can through checks and score goals. if paired with vrana he will most likely produce 30 something goals. (sorry about posting all that stupid stuff on backstrom. i was just angry because my fantasy hockey team droped a spot)

I wouldn't say stubborn, just realistic. I'm sure if you were on this board two years ago, you'd be pimping Alex Suglobov for top 6 minutes (not that there wasn't a shortage of people calling for that before Elias came back).

Everything we've seen from Vrana screams role player at the NHL level, not a top line scorer. Not that role players aren't useful, I personally wouldn't mind Vrana replacing Brylin next year.

And well, you said it yourself. You're 14 and making strange trade proposals with the justification that your fantasy team dropped a spot. Sorry if we don't take you completely seriously even if you are a Hockey News subscriber.

What about this...

Martin - Oduya
B. Stuart - White
Greene - Salvador
Mottau

Why is Mottau a spare? He has played great defense this year.

I'm pretty sure Brylin is under contract through the 09-10 season...

I'm pretty sure Brylin is under contract through the 09-10 season...
Negative. He's under contract for at most one more year, but I'm pretty sure next year is an option, just like this past year was. Unless when we exercised the option a year ago, it was a 2-year option. I don't know for sure.

I'm pretty sure Brylin is under contract through the 09-10 season...

Brylin has a team/player option for 08-09.

Everything we have seen from Vrana is roleplayer? Who has come to that conclussion. I have seen a lot of him and I see top 6 forward in some capacity. He has excellent playmaking abilities off the rush and is very dangerous on the PP.

hey wat about Fabian Brunnstrom? it might be a gamble but from wat i have seen he seems like a pretty complete player just racking up points.

hey wat about Fabian Brunnstrom? it might be a gamble but from wat i have seen he seems like a pretty complete player just racking up points.

Zero chance of seeing him in New Jersey, if they don't overpay to get him that is. The guy loves offense and is looking to go to teams like Detroit (of course), Ottawa, Colorado and Toronto.

I doubt that Salvador will re-sign with us. He's looking for contract at $2 million per year at least. I just don't see how he will get that with the Devils.

We're stuck with Vishnevski for another 2 years. I doubt that any other team would have interest in him because of his high salary.

im intrested to see tyler eckford's effect in the ahl

okay these are the prospects i think will make an impact on the devils. (not saying they will all be on the team next year)

N. Palmieri, M. Halischuk, N. Bergfors, P. Vrana, M. Corrente, T. Eckford. (these are in no particular order) and maybe Vasyunov.

Z. Parise - T. Zajac - J. Langennbrunner

P. Vrana - P. Elias - B. Gionta

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - N. Bergfors

D. Clarkson - R. Pelley - D. Zubrus

Z. Parise - T. Zajac - J. Langennbrunner

P. Vrana - P. Elias - B. Gionta

J. Pandolfo - J. Madden - N. Bergfors

D. Clarkson - R. Pelley - D. Zubrus

Bergfors on the checking line? I don't know if he can be as much of a pilon as Clarkson was, but that seems out of position for him.

Parise--Elias--Marian Hossa
Zubrus--Zajac--Gionta
Nik Hagman or Pando--Madden--Langenbrunner
Brylin<-->Vrana--Clarkson
Rupp and Pelley

Martin--Oduya
Rozsival--White
Mottau--Vishnevski or Salvador
Greene

Marty
Weekes

Parise--Elias--Marian Hossa
Zubrus--Zajac--Gionta
Nik Hagman or Pando--Madden--Langenbrunner
Brylin<-->Vrana--Clarkson
Rupp and Pelley

Martin--Oduya
Rozsival--White
Mottau--Vishnevski or Salvador
Greene

Marty
Weekes

Rozsival is the last Ranger I'd want on this team. Yes, less then Avery

Parise--Elias--Marian Hossa
Zubrus--Zajac--Gionta
Nik Hagman or Pando--Madden--Langenbrunner
Brylin<-->Vrana--Clarkson
Rupp and Pelley

Martin--Oduya
Rozsival--White
Mottau--Vishnevski or Salvador
Greene

Marty
Weekes
You'd need a $10M increase in the cap to even get close.

okay, gionta`s point production is not the same as it once was. and elias, well they`re was a reason why sutter striped the C from him. trade those two for decent draft pics. i am the biggest devils fan subscribe to hockey news, and constantly check the stats. im 14 by the way. and i play hockey. i k now wat im talking about.

Vrana is underated and has the same speed as gionta and better hands. his point total would be up if he was with other skilled players in lowell.

So ive missed a couple of days on here, and here it is in all its glory....

While I admire that you have a brass set....im skipping the entire thread just to see if they didnt drop this yet....on to page 5(back to the future theme starts to play).

Hill top im glad to see you werent killed for that one, anyways welcome aboard, never seen you around, just though your post was classic.

Good to see you get acclimated, saw the brunstrom comment a couple up and we can scratch that off completely...

thanx

i just dont really kniw wat to do with bergfors. vrana is more than ready, he play left wing better than he does center and he showed that at the allstar game. if bergfors is sent down again it will hurt the development of him. so even if he is on a scoring or checking line, the experience will do well for him.

Parise-Elias-Rolston
Zub-Zajac-Lang
Pando-Madden-Pelley
Palameri-Brylin/Vrana-Clarkson

Martin/Oduya
White/Greene
Salavador/Corrente
Mottau
Brookbank

My thoughts on next year's lineup (very long, so beware):

Forwards:
1) I haven't seen anywhere a definitive answer on what Brylin's status is for next year. Was it a two year option that he exercised last year (and thus will definitely be back)? Is it a team or player option for next year? If it's a player option he'd be foolish not to exercise it. If it's a team option I'm less sure, but I really can't picture Sarge in any other jersey.

2) Clarkson and Pelley are both RFA's, but I imagine we'll see both of them back next year.

3) Asham and Pandolfo are the two UFA's. I don't see Lou re-signing Asham, his play hasn't been anything great and there are some young guys in Lowell ready to step up. Pandolfo is the bigger question - obviously I want him back, think he'll be back, and can't imagine him in any other sweater - but then I thought there was no way in hell Rafalski went anywhere either.

With that said, barring a trade there probably won't be a whole lot of movement at forward. Assuming Pando stays the top 8 forwards will all be back (Elias, Parise, Langs, Zajac, Zubrus, Gionta, Madden, Pando). That leaves 4 roster spots plus one extra. Rupp is signed through next year, I'll assume Brylin will be back, and like I said I think Pelley and Clarkson will be re-signed as well. That only leaves one spot, and I think it will go to either Vrana or Bergfors, whoever looks better in camp next year.

Defense
1) Rachunek, Salvador, Brookbank, and Mottau are all UFA's. Obviously they won't all be back. Salvador I'd like to see back - if the price is right. Rachunek I like a lot (why couldn't he be signed instead of Vish), but I'm not sure he'll be back. I think one of Brookbank and Mottau will stay, one will go.

2) Vishnevski has two years left on his contract, but if Lou can find a taker for him I can see him being moved (or maybe it's just my wishful thinking). He still hasn't figured out how to lay big hits without getting himself out of position.

3) Martin, White, Oduya, and Greene all have contracts for next year. Martin and White are locks to be back. Oduya and Greene I think are likely to be back (at this point, Oduya more so than Greene), but I could see one of them used as trade bait at the draft.

4) I really think Corrente will make the team.

The defense has a lot more question marks than the offense. I think a lot will depend on how guys play down the stretch and in the playoffs, and how much money they're asking for in the offseason. And is this the year Lou goes after (and lands) a big name UFA? (I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's not)

My lineup, assuming Lou can't move Vish (not a fan of this):
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Brookbank - Greene
Vishnevski

Lineup, assuming Lou manages to move Vish:
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Salvador - Greene
Brookbank

does anyone know why Halischuk hasn't been playing? i know he played last night, but why has he only played like 30 games?

does anyone know why Halischuk hasn't been playing? i know he played last night, but why has he only played like 30 games?
Ankle injury.

i think he has the ability to become a productive first liner.

i think he has the ability to become a productive first liner.
Halischuk? I wouldn't count on it. Not outrageous but unlikely. Some (including myself) would say highly unlikely.

My thoughts on next year's lineup (very long, so beware):

Forwards:
1) I haven't seen anywhere a definitive answer on what Brylin's status is for next year. Was it a two year option that he exercised last year (and thus will definitely be back)? Is it a team or player option for next year? If it's a player option he'd be foolish not to exercise it. If it's a team option I'm less sure, but I really can't picture Sarge in any other jersey.

2) Clarkson and Pelley are both RFA's, but I imagine we'll see both of them back next year.

3) Asham and Pandolfo are the two UFA's. I don't see Lou re-signing Asham, his play hasn't been anything great and there are some young guys in Lowell ready to step up. Pandolfo is the bigger question - obviously I want him back, think he'll be back, and can't imagine him in any other sweater - but then I thought there was no way in hell Rafalski went anywhere either.

With that said, barring a trade there probably won't be a whole lot of movement at forward. Assuming Pando stays the top 8 forwards will all be back (Elias, Parise, Langs, Zajac, Zubrus, Gionta, Madden, Pando). That leaves 4 roster spots plus one extra. Rupp is signed through next year, I'll assume Brylin will be back, and like I said I think Pelley and Clarkson will be re-signed as well. That only leaves one spot, and I think it will go to either Vrana or Bergfors, whoever looks better in camp next year.

Defense
1) Rachunek, Salvador, Brookbank, and Mottau are all UFA's. Obviously they won't all be back. Salvador I'd like to see back - if the price is right. Rachunek I like a lot (why couldn't he be signed instead of Vish), but I'm not sure he'll be back. I think one of Brookbank and Mottau will stay, one will go.

2) Vishnevski has two years left on his contract, but if Lou can find a taker for him I can see him being moved (or maybe it's just my wishful thinking). He still hasn't figured out how to lay big hits without getting himself out of position.

3) Martin, White, Oduya, and Greene all have contracts for next year. Martin and White are locks to be back. Oduya and Greene I think are likely to be back (at this point, Oduya more so than Greene), but I could see one of them used as trade bait at the draft.

4) I really think Corrente will make the team.

The defense has a lot more question marks than the offense. I think a lot will depend on how guys play down the stretch and in the playoffs, and how much money they're asking for in the offseason. And is this the year Lou goes after (and lands) a big name UFA? (I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's not)

My lineup, assuming Lou can't move Vish (not a fan of this):
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Brookbank - Greene
Vishnevski

Lineup, assuming Lou manages to move Vish:
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Salvador - Greene
Brookbank

Pretty much dead on with my thoughts - except for Corrente, I don't really even try to speculate on somebody making the club from Lowell at this point - it seems so random and it's never the guy you think is next in line to come up.

Trade elias and gionta

As unpopular as it may sound, No Trade Clause or not, and with no significant cap room to sign impact free agents, one more 1st or 2nd round early playoff exit might make something as unthinkable as this a reality...

...unless of course, people like the status quo of great regular seasons (read: overacheiving defense/streaky goal scoring by committee/over-reliance on goaltending) followed by quick playoff failures.

I hope we go far this spring, but let's see how this team does in April and perhaps we can revisit this thread in the summer.

GP G A P these stats don't lie..the only bad thing i
Halischuk 37 13 39 52 + 15 see is palmieri's -24.

Palmieri 46 27 17 44 - 24

* Palmieri 46-27-17-44

Halischuk 37-13-39-52

i think he has the ability to become a productive first liner.


I think adrian foster might pull through this year, and if we can lure suglabov away from russia with the hopes of playing with a spry mogilny, next years top line. Hell, we have such a deep fansbase it happens pavel bure is a Devil fan, and he offered to drop both Alex's off at the airport in a plane he will driving because he has strong knees, which you know from nhl magazine, basically flying a plane is all in the knees.....Ahonen kept wring Lou and waiting for corrrespondence but there was Weekes every morning there to rip them up and was overheard saying "if Marty wount share with me then he wont share with anyone," would start to cry and hop into luxury car that he got for being the guy who smiles great after we win and giving the best high fives in the metro area.:thumbu:

trust me our fist line wont be ANYONE else in our system, especially the younger prospects that need time to acclimate to the NHL. Dont worry just take some time and listen to convo's you willl learn a lot, and dont feel bad but dont post just to post a name, I myself can remeber some new guys last season gome on this board and be like "Gionta rules...who is he again," or "yeha it would be cool if they gave clarkson a shot...i think he has the ability to score 40 goals right?"

To which I had respect for again because it took some courage to do that, like yourself your not afraid to speak your mind but trust me all of those guys you said that will make the team surely wont. Prhaps vrana/bergfors and Corrente and MF if we dont resung some some guys(slavador, maattua , broookbank, rachunek not saying we have to but we wont know unti it happens) and most they as in new guys would serve as reserves at first casue we have sarge/rupp logjam and Sutter certainly isnt as much of a teaching coach, I mean like let the kids play type, as I thought he would be.

Palmieri also plays for the absolute worst team in the OHL...his -24 isn't so surprising.

My thoughts on next year's lineup (very long, so beware):

Forwards:
1) I haven't seen anywhere a definitive answer on what Brylin's status is for next year. Was it a two year option that he exercised last year (and thus will definitely be back)? Is it a team or player option for next year? If it's a player option he'd be foolish not to exercise it. If it's a team option I'm less sure, but I really can't picture Sarge in any other jersey.

2) Clarkson and Pelley are both RFA's, but I imagine we'll see both of them back next year.

3) Asham and Pandolfo are the two UFA's. I don't see Lou re-signing Asham, his play hasn't been anything great and there are some young guys in Lowell ready to step up. Pandolfo is the bigger question - obviously I want him back, think he'll be back, and can't imagine him in any other sweater - but then I thought there was no way in hell Rafalski went anywhere either.

With that said, barring a trade there probably won't be a whole lot of movement at forward. Assuming Pando stays the top 8 forwards will all be back (Elias, Parise, Langs, Zajac, Zubrus, Gionta, Madden, Pando). That leaves 4 roster spots plus one extra. Rupp is signed through next year, I'll assume Brylin will be back, and like I said I think Pelley and Clarkson will be re-signed as well. That only leaves one spot, and I think it will go to either Vrana or Bergfors, whoever looks better in camp next year.

Defense
1) Rachunek, Salvador, Brookbank, and Mottau are all UFA's. Obviously they won't all be back. Salvador I'd like to see back - if the price is right. Rachunek I like a lot (why couldn't he be signed instead of Vish), but I'm not sure he'll be back. I think one of Brookbank and Mottau will stay, one will go.

2) Vishnevski has two years left on his contract, but if Lou can find a taker for him I can see him being moved (or maybe it's just my wishful thinking). He still hasn't figured out how to lay big hits without getting himself out of position.

3) Martin, White, Oduya, and Greene all have contracts for next year. Martin and White are locks to be back. Oduya and Greene I think are likely to be back (at this point, Oduya more so than Greene), but I could see one of them used as trade bait at the draft.

4) I really think Corrente will make the team.

The defense has a lot more question marks than the offense. I think a lot will depend on how guys play down the stretch and in the playoffs, and how much money they're asking for in the offseason. And is this the year Lou goes after (and lands) a big name UFA? (I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's not)

My lineup, assuming Lou can't move Vish (not a fan of this):
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Brookbank - Greene
Vishnevski

Lineup, assuming Lou manages to move Vish:
Martin - Oduya
White - Corrente
Salvador - Greene
Brookbank


well put and that exactly the situation we are in....there is no way asham gets re-signed and to be honest I can see brylin and Pnado as maybes just beacuse therer is no room on this team, yeah we have moved past the cap space issues but to pay brylin 1.5 for the 4th or reserve he it would be disadvantage him except for the fact he makes 1.5 million.

Lou's mistakes were rupp two years and vish(but at the time and the market i was ok with it imagine oduya didnt turn it around, mattau didnt surprise everyone, we got ok play out of brookbank, and greene certainly didnt work out the way he thought he would) I would say we see mattau back over greene and brookbank just going out on a limb.

i agree with what your saying. a whole bunch of people will make stupid but fair predictions. you may be right about halischuk, because of his size, but Palmieri was injured at the beginning of the season, but fought back and started to score again. he missed about 20 games and is fighting for leading the team in scoring. might i add as you probaly already know he is a power forward. i know it is a long time before our top scoring unit is changed, but depending on how Palmieri does in the ahl he may change your perspective.

Halischuk will be luck if his offense translates to the 2nd line. He truley is a Brylin clone, makes smart moves off the boards. Excellent speed and an excellent PK'er with some playmaking abilities.

Palmieri also plays for the absolute worst team in the OHL...his -24 isn't so surprising.
Unfortunately, I have heard that while his offense is fine, he hasn't been working that hard defensively...coasting back and mailing it in now that he knows the season is over.

Obviously that can change, but I'm not really pleased to heard things like that.

agree to disagree but, lets face it. they were both steals in the draft.

Brandon Sutter would have been an excellent fit for the devils.

It looks like Matt Carle's future in San Jose may be over. With the acquisition of Campbell at the deadline and Carle being a helthy scratch the past 3 games, Lou should jump at the opportunity to land a young offensive defensemen like Matt. He'd look awesome in a Devils uniform and would get the help he needs on his defensive game with "big bird" as his mentor.

link: For the third game in a row, defenceman Matt Carle was a healthy scratch in Friday's game against the Blackhawks. - San Jose Mercury News

for all u vrana bashers...he was ranked in the ahl's top ten in assists.

these stats don't lie
Halischuk 37 13 39 52 + 15

Here are the four year NCAA stats for a certain Devil:

39 GP 17-23-40
37 GP 17-25-42
20 GP 7-13-20
40 GP 38-29-67

Has Jay Pandolfo come anywhere close to match that offensive output in the NHL? John Madden once had a 98 point campaign in the AHL.

Basically, don't expect offensive numbers to translate. Most NHLers put up big points in juniors/college.

for all u vrana bashers...he was ranked in the ahl's top ten in assists.

Do you really want to pull out a list of past AHL scorers that didn't translate to the NHL? Alex Suglobov was nearly a point per game at the same age on a similarly bad team. Again, we're not bashing him if we don't think he's going to be 1st line material.

Rozsival is the last Ranger I'd want on this team. Yes, less then Avery

Rozsival is gonna cost a bit too.

Okay fantasy defenseman, not so good real-life defenseman.

Maybe if Lou can ind anybody who will be willing to take Vish for a late rounder then we can sign someone like Ossi Vaananen. Supposedly he is playing fantastic and is very physical.

Here are the four year NCAA stats for a certain Devil:

39 GP 17-23-40
37 GP 17-25-42
20 GP 7-13-20
40 GP 38-29-67

Has Jay Pandolfo come anywhere close to match that offensive output in the NHL? John Madden once had a 98 point campaign in the AHL.

Basically, don't expect offensive numbers to translate. Most NHLers put up big points in juniors/college.



Do you really want to pull out a list of past AHL scorers that didn't translate to the NHL? Alex Suglobov was nearly a point per game at the same age on a similarly bad team. Again, we're not bashing him if we don't think he's going to be 1st line material.
To continue that point, check out the list of the top 10 AHL scorers from the year Madden had 98 http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/leagues/seasons/leaders/ahl19411999.html . And a lot of these guys were 23-25 years old.

As for Halischuk keep in mind he played all year on an amazing offensive line on an amazing team AND he's playing in his 4th OHL season and turns 20 in June (was passed over in the draft the 1st time). Spaling, Halischuk, Azevedo all have great numbers. I'm not sure any of them will be top 6 NHL forwards.

The good thing about both Halischuk and Vrana is that they aren't pure offensive players. Vrana has a good 2way game and Halischuk seems to be developing the defensive side of his game too. But neither project as 1st liners, because they lack the offensive ability/skating to make up for their lack of size.

I really really hope Lou signs both Vasyunov and Zharkov. We will be able to get a better idea on these guys if they play with Lowell next year.

I really really hope Lou signs both Vasyunov and Zharkov. We will be able to get a better idea on these guys if they play with Lowell next year.

I really hope so too. Lowell will be pretty exciting to watch next year if we have those two, Tulupov, Eckford and whoever else down there.

Think we should bring Sopanen over? 30 points in 54 games in Finland is pretty good for a 20 year old.

I really hope so too. Lowell will be pretty exciting to watch next year if we have those two, Tulupov, and Eckford down there.

Think we should bring Sopanen over? 30 points in 54 games in Finland is pretty good for a 20 year old.

Is he playing in the SEL?

To continue that point, check out the list of the top 10 AHL scorers from the year Madden had 98 http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/leagues/seasons/leaders/ahl19411999.html . And a lot of these guys were 23-25 years old.

As for Halischuk keep in mind he played all year on an amazing offensive line on an amazing team AND he's playing in his 4th OHL season and turns 20 in June (was passed over in the draft the 1st time). Spaling, Halischuk, Azevedo all have great numbers. I'm not sure any of them will be top 6 NHL forwards.

The good thing about both Halischuk and Vrana is that they aren't pure offensive players. Vrana has a good 2way game and Halischuk seems to be developing the defensive side of his game too. But neither project as 1st liners, because they lack the offensive ability/skating to make up for their lack of size.


Halischuk was with the St. Michael Majors when he posted around 66 points on a bad team. but yea now that he is on an amazingly offensive line his production would increase.

wat about Palmieri he is on a very poor team and he has been putting up the numbers. again i know he may not post the same #'s in the nhl or ahl hes putting up right now.

Is he playing in the SEL?

Yeah for the Pelicans. Pretty impressive if you ask me.

i hope he doesn't sign Zharkov. but ya i hope lou signs Vasyunov, Eckford, Tulupov and Sopanen. only thing on sopanen is he has a risky stye of play. and will delay his development.

Halischuk was with the St. Michael Majors when he posted around 66 points on a bad team. but yea now that he is on an amazingly offensive line his production would increase.

wat about Palmieri he is on a very poor team and he has been putting up the numbers. again i know he may not post the same #'s in the nhl or ahl hes putting up right now.

Halischuk had 66 points with Kitchener.

Palmieri on that team (Kitchener) would be top 5 in the league in goals, bet on that.

i hope he doesn't sign Zharkov. but ya i hope lou signs Vasyunov, Eckford, Tulupov and Sopanen. only thing on sopanen is he has a risky stye of play. and will delay his development.

Why wouldn't you want him to sign Zharkov? Seems like he could be a solid checker with offensive upside like Brylin.

Are you sure you don't mean Tulupov has a risky style of play? He's the one throwing those big hits. Sopanen is a forward and I've heard nothing bad about his defense or his accountability on the ice.

i hope he doesn't sign Zharkov. but ya i hope lou signs Vasyunov, Eckford, Tulupov and Sopanen. only thing on sopanen is he has a risky stye of play. and will delay his development.

Why don't you want Lou to sign Zharkov? and what do you mean Sopanen has a risky style of play?

http://www.hockeysfuture.com/prospects/vili_sopanen

http://www.hockeysfuture.com/prospects/vili_sopanen

Sounds like a Finnish version of Tallackson.

Palmieri looked good in preseason and I like what I hear about him. Sounds like he needs some defensive work but the Devils don't have many goal scorers in the organization, other than Bergfors, and maybe Vasyunov.

You might as well let Sopanen play another year in Finland, he won't be ready for a while anyway but it sounds like he improved this season and got plenty of icetime. By the way, he's not playing in the SEL. Pelicans is in the SM-liiga.

just throwin this out there...think Palmieri could be a top line player? cause it sounds like he just needs to work on defensive ability .

just throwin this out there...think Palmieri could be a top line player? cause it sounds like he just needs to work on defensive ability .
Maybe a 1st line player like Langenbrunner is, which is more of a 2nd liner. I think that's probably his ceiling. Not saying the 2 players are comparable, but offensively I think they might be. I sure hope Palmieri isn't rushed and the Devils let him continue to improve his offensive game instead of being a 4th liner. Just a fear of mine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkTgtIlWuNM

watch this goal, amazing pass from Torquato. this wat the devils could have.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkTgtIlWuNM

watch this goal, amazing pass from Torquato. this wat the devils could have.
I don't know if you want Torquato and Corrente together after what happened off-ice in Saginaw. I think Torquato fell way, way down in the draft because of that. He looks like he has a lot of ability though.

i know we have only had zubrus for a little bit, but i just don't think he is the playmaker we thought he was. i dont think we are going to trade him. he is signed for a six year contract. but i just thought they should trade (Zubrus and a conditional 2nd round draft pick for Matt Carle and a 1st round pick.) that way we could stick Vrana on left Wing and still have room for bergfors on a line. by the looks of things, bergfors if put in another year of the ahl, would not be good for his development. (those are all alot of if's, i mean i doubt the devils will even end up trading Zubrus anyway!!! just a thought though..)

i know we have only had zubrus for a little bit, but i just don't think he is the playmaker we thought he was. i dont think we are going to trade him. he is signed for a six year contract. but i just thought they should trade (Zubrus and a conditional 2nd round draft pick for Matt Carle and a 1st round pick.) that way we could stick Vrana on left Wing and still have room for bergfors on a line. by the looks of things, bergfors if put in another year of the ahl, would not be good for his development. (those are all alot of if's, i mean i doubt the devils will even end up trading Zubrus anyway!!! just a thought though..)

Hold on what??? You think Zubes is worth Carle and a first????

Pass the peace pipe Little Bear....

Hold on what??? You think Zubes is worth Carle and a first????

Pass the peace pipe Little Bear....


first off, carle has been a healthy scratch for 3 games since campbell came along from buffalo. Zubrus might be worth a 1st round pick, and the devils conditional 2nd round pick is worth carle, seeing as carle was selected in second round. around 45th overall. it would solve the devils defence and we would be able to bring in vrana or bergfors on the second line as a winger. vrana or bergfors would bolster the second line and be more productive.

Hold on what??? You think Zubes is worth Carle and a first????

Pass the peace pipe Little Bear....

by the way im not native...

Am I the only person on these boards who actually likes Zubrus and what he brings to this team?

Am I the only person on these boards who actually likes Zubrus and what he brings to this team?

No, no you're not. He's a grinder that actually has great balance/hands and can make a soft pass. I just wish he'd hit the net more with his shots. 3 shots last night for him, none hit the net. 0 shots tonight.

I like him a lot, I just wish he'd use his offensive skills a bit more - I know he's got them.

Am I the only person on these boards who actually likes Zubrus and what he brings to this team?

I do. When we first signed him I was overjoyed.

No, no you're not. He's a grinder that actually has great balance/hands and can make a soft pass. I just wish he'd hit the net more with his shots. 3 shots last night for him, none hit the net. 0 shots tonight.

I like him a lot, I just wish he'd use his offensive skills a bit more - I know he's got them.
No, I agree with that. I think MacLean needs some help. Johnny Mac was always willing to shoot the puck - that was almost his thing, take shots from everywhere and some of them will go in - and yet the Devils haven't been able to figure that out. Bring back McKay to teach people how to drive the net or something.

Am I the only person on these boards who actually likes Zubrus and what he brings to this team?

No, no you're not. He's a grinder that actually has great balance/hands and can make a soft pass. I just wish he'd hit the net more with his shots. 3 shots last night for him, none hit the net. 0 shots tonight.

I like him a lot, I just wish he'd use his offensive skills a bit more - I know he's got them.

I'm a Zubes fan, too. I feel like he brings a lot to the ice that does not translate on the into stats. He draws a lot of key penalties, he's hard to get off the puck, and I agree, RG, there are offensive skills there just waiting to be released in NJ.
It might be a coaching issue, or a "system" problem. I do feel like he has yet to really find his groove with any consistency, and he has played on every line combo Sutter could possibly come up with for him. I put a lot of stock in chemistry between FWDS, and that has been lacking the whole team, not just Zubes.