Just line-ups!!!

I know we have a thread for changes for next season. I would like to organize it into a thread of just lineups. These lineups could be your fantasy lineups or a lineup Lou will put on the ice for 2008-09 or something in-between.

Don't worry too much about cap space as we have some really good posters who will let us know if we will be over the cap and how to correct it.


So here goes...


This is a proposed lineup that I would like to see and I think Lou will go for:


(I am assuming Daymond Langkow is signed. If not, I want him!)


Prospal--Elias--Gionta
Elias--Langkow--Gionta (I want Langkow. If not available, then ViP.)
Parise--Zajac--Langenbrunner
Pandolfo--Madden--Zubrus
Rupp<-->Vrana--Clarkson
Pelley and Brylin or Brookbank (Sheldon can play right wing or right defense. I love to have versatile players.)

Martin--Salvador
Mottau (Corrente by January 1st, I hope!)--Oduya
Zidlicky--White
Greene or Vishnevski

Marty
Weekes


We sign Prospal or Langkow and our own FAs: Mottau, Salvador, Pando and Brookbank.

We trade for Marek Zidlicky: #2 and/or Ivan Khomutov, Greene or Vishnevski for MZ.

We trade Nick Bergfors and a 2009 pick for Gilbert Brule if Bergs is doing nothing by the first of next year and Brule is not doing a whole helluva lot more.

This is just a start. Needs tweaking. Needs your help. Thanks!!! ;)

Lou will sit on his hands and do nothing major.

I pray to god he makes me eat my words.

Vrana is better than a 4th line center.

Im also really hoping Antoine Vermette becomes available for trade. Please Lou, if thats all you do this summer!!!

Oh, and adding a young puck mover would be nice. Kevin Klein is basically another Paul Martin, do it Lou.

EDIT: And yes, I am a Zajac supporter. But I would still trade him for Vermette. Love that guys game. AND, hes French Canadian. ;)

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

Martin-Oduya
White-Salvador
Mottau-Corrente

Vish/Greene

Marty
Weekes.


I think Lou will re-sign Salvador, Pandolfo, Mottau. Other than that.. He won't trade for a # top-4 Defencemen, he might sign (MIGHT.) a UFA LW.

If Lou doesn't make any major moves, I won't be disapointed(I,m ready for it)

One guy I don't hear much about and he just might be flying under the radar is Pavol Demitra. I can see Lou offering up a possiblee 2 year or 3 year deal. He didn't have a great season and was also hurt, but he does have skill and is a center.

One guy I don't hear much about and he just might be flying under the radar is Pavol Demitra. I can see Lou offering up a possiblee 2 year or 3 year deal. He didn't have a great season and was also hurt, but he does have skill and is a center.

Very true. and he did just as well in his career without Gaborik. I thought he was Czek... but he's from Slovak. I always liked him.

I would rather have Langkow than Demitra.

Well, currently Demitra makes 4.5 Langkow makes about 2.5. I have a feeling Demitra will drop in price to about 4 million. Langkow will like be around 5 million. Both the same age. I just always liked Langkow. Who's his current linemates? If Lou were to go after one of them, he's going for the cheaper one

Why does everyone want to break up Elias and Parise? They were, by far, our best offensive duo all season. Both have to be on the first line.

Why does everyone want to break up Elias and Parise? They were, by far, our best offensive duo all season. Both have to be on the first line.

I think its the fact we need more than one scoring line, and that we pretty obviously need a #1 Center. If this happens, unless Zach can play right wing, Elias will be the LW for the new centerman.

Parise - Elias - Bergfors

Zubrus - Vrana - Gionta

Pando - Madden - Langenbrunner

Rupp - Pelley - Clarkie


Martin - Oduya

Smith - White(Hainsey)

Corrente - Salvador



I'm guessing we won't sign any top free agent, probably hainsey, and maybe Smith, we also need to re-up salvo.

And Gionta can probably pick it up again with a natural center who can feed.

Crunched a LOT of numbers trying to figure this. I certainly can see another scenario in the first (realistic) lineup where a more proven D-man is signed, but we all know Lou won't overpay in a chase for popular UFA's. The first scenario is what leaves enough $$ in the club payroll to stock Lowell appropriately, the 2nd comes up about $1 Million short on the Lowell total payroll. No cap site I found has Langkow signed, despite reports and rumors otherwise.

Realistic*

Parise(3.13)-Elias(6.0)-Rolston(4.0)
Zajac(.98)-Langkow(4.6)-Zubrus(3.4)
Pandolfo(1.8)*-Madden(2.9)-Langenbrunner(2.8)
Bergfors(.475)-Rupp(.5)-Clarkson(.85)*
Pelley(.65)*

Martin(3.83)-Hainsey(2.2)
Oduya(.60)-Vishnevski(1.8)
White(3.0)-Corrente(.85)
Mottau(.65)

Brodeur (5.2)
Weekes (.7)

Total: $51.3 Million (Gionta traded for picks and restocking Lowell with a few B level prospects, Greene waived) Also leaves room for deadline deal which Lou always seems to try to do.

Dream*

Parise(3.13)-Langkow(4.6)-Rolston(4.0)
Zajac(.98)-Elias(6.0)-Hossa(8.5)
Zubrus(3.4)-Madden(2.9)-Langenbrunner(2.8)
Pelley(.65)*-Rupp(.5)-Clarkson(.85)*
Bergfors(.475)

Martin(3.83)-Salvador(2.0)*
Oduya(.60)-Mottau(.65)
White(3.0)-Corrente(.85)
Greene(.6)

Brodeur (5.2)
Weekes (.7)

*re-signed value
TOTAL: $56.4 Million - right at the current estimates for next year's cap. (Gionta & Vishnevski traded for picks/re-stocking Lowell)

If Vrana was going to play 4th line center he would have been up[ two years ago for some stints instead of Pelley.

Parise-Elias-Demitra
Pando-Madden-Langenbrunner
Brylin/Vrana-Zajac-Gio
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson


Martin-Salvador
Liles-Oduya
Mottau-White



Those 2 bolded would be my dream signings.

If Vrana was going to play 4th line center he would have been up[ two years ago for some stints instead of Pelley.

Well he's not going to be the first, second, or third line Center. So unless he plays the wing, he'll be the 4th line Center.

If Vrana was going to play 4th line center he would have been up[ two years ago for some stints instead of Pelley.

Just another criminally underrated Devil.

Parise - Elias - Langenbrunner
Vrana - Zajac - Kotalik
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson
Bergfors - Gets a call-up if we need the O. Hoping he can have one final year in Lowell to prove his worth (ala Vrana.)

Martin - Klein
Salvador - Oduya
White - Orpik

Brodeur
Weekes

Trade Vishnevski for Kotalik.
Trade a 2nd for Kevin Klein.
Would like to trade Zajac for Vermette, but you dont really give up on these players.
Klein is essentially another Paul Martin, good puck carrier, good on Special Teams.
Sign Orpik and Holik.

EDIT: Trade Gio and our 1st to move up in the draft.

My current NHL2008 line up:

Hejduk Lecavelier Elias
Parise(A) Zajac Langenbrunner(C)
Brylin Flippiua Pandolfo
Janssen Augusta Clarkson

(augusta was a NHL 2008 draft pick, he ahs 25 goals for me this season)

Had to re work contracts to get under cap. im at the limit.

Defense:
White - Niedermayer (A)
Sauer - Malik
Johnson - Vishnevski

Elias--Demitra--Gionta
Parise--Vrana--Erat (or Kotalik or even Afinogenov)
Pandolfo--Madden--Langenbrunner
Rupp--Zubrus--Clarkson

Pelley and Brylin as alternates

Martin--Oduya
Mottau--Liles
Roszival--White

Corrente, Green as alternates

Marty
Halak - Trade Weekes plus maybe Vish or Salvador and some picks. We need to start thinking for the future.

EDIT I like Brit's idea of taking a winger from Buffalo

Normally i would agree that lou isnt gonna make a move, but with the teams recent struggles late in the season and in the playoffs i believe he will pull the trigger to make a big splash......


Parise-Elias-Hossa
Malone-Zajac-Gionta
Langenbrunner-Madden-Clarkson
Bergfors-Rupp-Enforcer who knows how to fight

White-Corrente
Martin-Oduya
Orpik-Rozival

I think its time to move Parise back to Center. He's played great for Team USA.

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

Oduya-Martin
Orpik-Liles
White-Corrente

Brodeur
Weekes

PP1: Parise-Langenbrunner-Elias
Liles-Rolston

PP2: Bergfors-Zubrus-Zajac
Oduya-Martin

Gionta traded for prospects
Vishnevski traded for draft pick

Parise - Elias - Langs
Malone - Langkow - Gionta
Pando - Mads - Clarkson
Neil - Rupp - Laraque

White - Martin
Redden - Hale (yes David Hale, stepped up in Calgary)
Salvador - Oduya
Corrente ( don't know too much about)

Might be way over the cap, but we need some grit

Parise(3.1)-Elias (6.0)-Vrbata(4.5)
Rolston (4.5)-Zajac (0.984)-Bergfors (0.835)
Zubrus (3.4)-Madden (2.9)-Langenbrunner (2.8)
Darche (.950)-Rupp (.500)-Clarkson (1.0)

Forwards: $31.470

Suter (5.0)-Martin (3.8)
White (3.0)-Orpik (3.0)
Oduya (1.0)-Montador (1.75)


Defense: $17.55

Marty (5.2)
Weekes (.688)

Goalies: $5.88

Total: $54.908

Here's a lineup with no UFA's (except our own) and no trades. I don't think it's realistic, because I think Lou will do something, but I thought it would be interesting.

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

Martin - Oduya
White - Mottau
Salvador - Corrente
Greene

Brodeur
Weekes

I put Halischuk in there as my dark horse to make the team. After the draft last year Lou said he was the most NHL-ready of the Devils picks, and he tore up the OHL this year.

FYI - Nothing has been finalized, but the latest report from Wed. has Langkow close to a deal.

Weighing pros and Cons
Rumours / May 7, 2008 / Calgary Sun
Cgy The pending unrestricted free agent, who'll turn 37 before training camp begins in September, has to bide his time waiting to find out whether he fits into the Flames' future plans.

A new contract for top-line centre Daymond Langkow is expected to come to fruition soon, and the club expects Matthew Lombardi to ascend into a second-line position for the coming season.
Where that leaves Conroy remains to be seen.

Conroy, content with the fact he'll have to take a cut in pay from the US$2.85 million salary he received this past season and a reduced role to remain in Calgary, just has to sit and wait.

"They have to figure out what they want to do and make their decisions and let me know," he said.

FYI - Nothing has been finalized, but the latest report from Wed. has Langkow close to a deal.


I saw that also.

I believe its all over calgary newspapers that he has been resigned.

Well, currently Demitra makes 4.5 Langkow makes about 2.5. I have a feeling Demitra will drop in price to about 4 million. Langkow will like be around 5 million. Both the same age. I just always liked Langkow. Who's his current linemates? If Lou were to go after one of them, he's going for the cheaper one

I rather give him more money and less years. But at a possible $4.5, might not be a bad way to go.

Parise-Elias-Demitra
Pando-Madden-Langenbrunner
Brylin-Vrana-Gio
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson


Martin-Salvador
Liles-Oduya
Mottau-White



Those 2 bolded would be my dream signings.

What did you do with Zajac?

I saw that also.

I believe its all over calgary newspapers that he has been resigned.

HMM nothing here yet, I think Langkow is in Hawaii right now with Phanuef and Elisha and others.

Here's a lineup with no UFA's (except our own) and no trades. I don't think it's realistic, because I think Lou will do something, but I thought it would be interesting.

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

Martin - Oduya
White - Mottau
Salvador - Corrente
Greene

Brodeur
Weekes

I put Halischuk in there as my dark horse to make the team. After the draft last year Lou said he was the most NHL-ready of the Devils picks, and he tore up the OHL this year.
I think Palmieri would make the roster before Halischuk, especially for a third-line checking role.

What did you do with Zajac?


Damn. Shows how much he disappeared for me this season. I'd replace him with Vrana/Brylin. If Brylin doesn't come back I think Vrana will be ready to take a roster spot in camp.


***Updated lines w/ Zajac:


Parise-Elias-Demitra
Pando-Madden-Langenbrunner
Brylin/Vrana-Zajac-Gio
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson


Martin-Salvador
Liles-Oduya
Mottau-White

** The problem with the Defense is... They are all lefties. This is why I kinda wish Rachunek could sign back with us but I doubt it's gonna happen.

We trade for Marek Zidlicky: #2 and/or Ivan Khomutov, Greene or Vishnevski for MZ.

We trade Nick Bergfors and a 2009 pick for Gilbert Brule if Bergs is doing nothing by the first of next year and Brule is not doing a whole helluva lot more.


I'm not one for lineup threads, but you mentioned acquiring 2 players I like in Zidlicky and Brule.

I don't know if thats enough for Zidlicky, but the Brule deal might be possible since they're not playing him much as it is. I went so far as to ask some Blue Jackets fans about his availability a few months ago. Apparently, management has more optimism about him than the fanbase so he might not be available, but if he is, he's still worth a lot to them considering how high they drafted him. I'd definitely would be in favor taking a shot at landing him.

I think Palmieri would make the roster before Halischuk, especially for a third-line checking role.
Why? I actually completely disagree. For one, I'm pretty sure Halischuk is AHL-eligible next year, while Palmieri is not. For that reason alone I'd be shocked if he made the team next year. And power forwards (Palmieri) tend to take more time to develop.

Halischuk is a year older, he plays the PK so he should be decent defensively (not sure about Palmieri there), and he's a speedy little guy who, IMO, could work well with Madden and Pando. Sort of like Gionta did a few years ago.

Anyway, that's my two cents, though I don't really expect either of them to make the team. I just think Palmieri is a lot less likely to make it than Halischuk.

This thread is quite humorous. If we sign Smith here is what I think our team will look like at the start of October.

Parise-Elias-Vrana/Bergfors
Zubrus-Zajac-Gionta
Pandolfo-Madden-Langenbrunner
Mixture of Pluggers

Martin-Oduya
White-Smith
Vishnevski-Mottau

Does the Smith rumor have legs?

EDIT I like Brit's idea of taking a winger from Buffalo

Well, I try.

But seriously, Ales is a consistant 20+ goal scorer, very good on the boards and excellent on the powerplay. Not to mention we could pick him up on the super cheap.

Heck, could even throw together the all Czech line.

Elias - Vrana - Kotalik
Parise - Zajac - Gionta

Does the Smith rumor have legs?

I hope not. Salvador is better (At this point in their careers).

Well, I try.

But seriously, Ales is a consistant 20+ goal scorer, very good on the boards and excellent on the powerplay. Not to mention we could pick him up on the super cheap.

Heck, could even throw together the all Czech line.

Elias - Vrana - Kotalik
Parise - Zajac - Gionta

Would love to get Kotalik, but don't see the Sabres trading him.

I hope not. Salvador is better (At this point in their careers).
Smith has not been a top-4 defenseman for Philadelphia. I would rather have Salvador.

I think Bergfors would make the team in a top six role instead of Vrana, and there's no doubt that Halischuk would make the team in a checking role long before Palmieri. Despite the fact that he lasted in camp, hes still two years off at least.

I have no idea why people want Jason Smith. He's old and was mostly ineffective this year for Philly. I'm not too keen on the Rolston signing either. I'd rather put money towards guys that won't fall off because of age before the end of their contracts with us.

Let's invest in younger guys like Vermette, Liles, Hainsey, Umberger, etc. Those types of guys can grow into our system and reach their potential with us, rather than signing guys who are only going to be effective for two years or so.

Just my preference.

I know we have a thread for changes for next season. I would like to organize it into a thread of just lineups. These lineups could be your fantasy lineups or a lineup Lou will put on the ice for 2008-09 or something in-between.

Don't worry too much about cap space as we have some really good posters who will let us know if we will be over the cap and how to correct it.


So here goes...


This is a proposed lineup that I would like to see and I think Lou will go for:


(I am assuming Daymond Langkow is signed. If not, I want him!)


Prospal--Elias--Gionta
Elias--Langkow--Gionta (I want Langkow. If not available, then ViP.)
Parise--Zajac--Langenbrunner
Pandolfo--Madden--Zubrus
Rupp<-->Vrana--Clarkson
Pelley and Brylin or Brookbank (Sheldon can play right wing or right defense. I love to have versatile players.)

Martin--Salvador
Mottau (Corrente by January 1st, I hope!)--Oduya
Zidlicky--White
Greene or Vishnevski

Marty
Weekes


We sign Prospal or Langkow and our own FAs: Mottau, Salvador, Pando and Brookbank.

We trade for Marek Zidlicky: #2 and/or Ivan Khomutov, Greene or Vishnevski for MZ.

We trade Nick Bergfors and a 2009 pick for Gilbert Brule if Bergs is doing nothing by the first of next year and Brule is not doing a whole helluva lot more.

This is just a start. Needs tweaking. Needs your help. Thanks!!! ;)

1) Hossa???

2) Barely any changes = still not enough scoring, those changes will definately produce the same amount of offense as this season.....

tanguay would be so great

I'm not one for lineup threads, but you mentioned acquiring 2 players I like in Zidlicky and Brule.

I don't know if thats enough for Zidlicky, but the Brule deal might be possible since they're not playing him much as it is. I went so far as to ask some Blue Jackets fans about his availability a few months ago. Apparently, management has more optimism about him than the fanbase so he might not be available, but if he is, he's still worth a lot to them considering how high they drafted him. I'd definitely would be in favor taking a shot at landing him.

Nashville has a number of righty shooting defensemen. They may be willing to trade Zidlicky or Kevin Klein and if we can match their price, I would take Zidlicky to help our PP. If we couldn't get him, Kevin Klein might be an upgrade over what we have. I don't know what they would want so I just threw out some names. They may want picks, which would be fine by me.

Gilbert Brule has been a huge disappointment and if he does not get his act together by next mid-season, we may be able to get him. I would love for Nick Bergfors to prove me wrong and make the team out of training camp again. I would love to see him with Elias and a top center or left wing on our "top line." However, if he is in Lowell by mid-season and Brule isn't doing much, a change of scenary for both might benefit Columbus and NJ in a big way.

BTW, I hear Zach is playing center at the World Championships. Does anyone think flip-flopping Zach and Patty might improve their output? Elias at left wing, Parise at center and maybe Gio or Bergfors at right wing could be a solid offensive line.

We won't sign Hossa unless Lou gets real bold. The only reason I may not want to sign him is because he might block Palmieri and Halischuk from jobs. I could see Halischuk making the team out of training camp and playing with Mad Dog and Pando, although some time at Lowell could not hurt. And if Palmieri makes the Devils out of camp, I believe we have 10 games to decide whether to send him back to juniors or keep him for the season. If he is ready, having Hossa would retard his development. I like Palmieri a lot and think he has a chance of making the team, if not out of camp then at the end of the season. I think this kid could be a force.

If we do get Hossa, we can always trade Gionta to make room for Palmieri and/or Halischuk. But with the right linemates, I think Gio can get to 40 goals on the season. And I want to see him kill penalties. He is a threat. Just give him the chance. Why did it take Tom Renney to use Gomez on the PK? Gomez and Gionta would have been very dangerous together on the PK.

There definitely will be some decent changes made. If nothing changes, then nothing changes, meaning another early playoff exit.

I wouldn't mind this lineup:

Bergfors-Elias-Hossa
Parise-Zajac-Gionta
Pando-Madden-Jamie. L
Zub-Vrana-Clarkson
Pelley-Rupp

Martin-Orpik
Hainsey-White
Oduya-Corrente
Vishy-Mottau

There definitely will be some decent changes made. If nothing changes, then nothing changes, meaning another early playoff exit.


I agree with you 100 percent!!! Could not have said it better. :handclap:


Here is a lineup I came up with that we might go into the playoffs with, so we are talking the end of the season and NOT a lineup coming out of training camp. This lineup is designed strictly for the playoffs:


Elias<-->Parise--Bergfors or Gilbert Brule
Vrana<-->Zubrus/Zajac--Gionta
Pandolfo--Madden--Langenbrunner
Rupp--Zajac/Zubrus--Clarkson/Halischuk/Palmieri
Pelley

Martin--Bryce Salvador or Brad Stuart or Wade Redden
Corrente--Oduya
Marek Zidlicky or Kevin Klein--White
Mottau and Brookbank

Marty
Weekes


If there is another Alexander Mogilny out there who is on the block or a FA and I don't know about him for some reason, please let me know. I would love to put him on the first line with Patty and Zach.

THANKS!!!!!!! :yo:

Did more thinking while watching the Pens beat those stinking Flyers last night.

Would Andy McDonald be a good fit on the Devils and what would we have to give up for him?

Also, how about signing Radim Vrbata?

Looking over our roster, we have to watch for age. We need to get younger. I want to sign Pando but for no more than 2 or 3 years. Maybe by the end of Jay's contract, we will have a kid--possibly Mike Hoeffel--to take his place.

Elias--Andy McDonald--Radim Vrbata
Parise<-->Zubrus/Travis--Gionta
Pandolfo--Madden--Langenbrunner
Rupp--Zajac/Zubrus--Clarkson
Pelley

Martin--Brad Stuart
Corrente--Oduya
Mark Streit--White
Mottau and Brookbank

Marty
Weekes


To acquire McDonald, I would start with our #1 pick in 2008, Petr Vrana, and either Andy Greene or Vitaly Vishnevski. Is that fair?

Be kind. I am not feeling well. Have been sick for two weeks now. Can't shake this virus and my allergies are killing me!!!

I'm thinking more and more on how I want some czech linemates for Patty. He hasn't really had any buddies since Sykora. And look at what he's doing now in international competition. Czechs are very clique types, look at Jagr. That said, Vrabata, Kotalik... whoever really! I'd love to have Sykora back but he's not leaving Pitt and Lou doesn't want him anymore.

There aren't a lot of stud, all-star FAs out there. But there are a TON of Lou type FAs. Good, solid guys that don't get the press but are still solid top-6 forwards or top-4 dmen.

He HAS to do something

I'm thinking more and more on how I want some czech linemates for Patty. He hasn't really had any buddies since Sykora. And look at what he's doing now in international competition. Czechs are very clique types, look at Jagr. That said, Vrabata, Kotalik... whoever really! I'd love to have Sykora back but he's not leaving Pitt and Lou doesn't want him anymore.

There aren't a lot of stud, all-star FAs out there. But there are a TON of Lou type FAs. Good, solid guys that don't get the press but are still solid top-6 forwards or top-4 dmen.

He HAS to do something
Don't be surprised if Brendan Morrison comes back.

Kotalik would be interesting here. Big body, he's Czech which would suit Patty's fancy I'd say, and he has a darn good shot from what I have seen (remember that laser he scored against Brodeur after Christmas).

I think he'd be a good fit in New Jersey

Don't be surprised if Brendan Morrison comes back.

To what - take Brylin's place? Seriously... what is he going to provide better than anyone else in this lineup? $3.2 M for a small, finesse center putting up 20 goals?

Pass... (unless Zajac is getting dealt for some reason).

Morrison's finesse would be welcome here. When we lost Gomez, we missed him. Not cause he's so "great" but because he was creative, and we don't have too many creative players on our team. I wouldn't mind only 20 goals if it came with 50-60 assists... for $3.2 million. Not saying Morrison is my goal, but a creative center is definitely something we lack. Elias and Parise are our most creative players, but neither one is a solid play-making center

I'm thinking more and more on how I want some czech linemates for Patty. He hasn't really had any buddies since Sykora. And look at what he's doing now in international competition. Czechs are very clique types, look at Jagr. That said, Vrabata, Kotalik... whoever really! I'd love to have Sykora back but he's not leaving Pitt and Lou doesn't want him anymore.

There aren't a lot of stud, all-star FAs out there. But there are a TON of Lou type FAs. Good, solid guys that don't get the press but are still solid top-6 forwards or top-4 dmen.

He HAS to do something
Watching this tournament, I'm coming to the same conclusion (as long as said players fit in with the Devils). The chemistry is there, and it's not like they've had months to play together and figure things out.

Or I'd take Kaberle to work on the PP with Patty. They've looked great together.

I'm thinking more and more on how I want some czech linemates for Patty. He hasn't really had any buddies since Sykora. And look at what he's doing now in international competition. Czechs are very clique types, look at Jagr. That said, Vrabata, Kotalik... whoever really! I'd love to have Sykora back but he's not leaving Pitt and Lou doesn't want him anymore.

There aren't a lot of stud, all-star FAs out there. But there are a TON of Lou type FAs. Good, solid guys that don't get the press but are still solid top-6 forwards or top-4 dmen.

He HAS to do something


When Gomez was signed by the Rangers, it would have been nice to sign Sykora and play him with Elias. Sykora was originally a center, but could have played the right side with Patty at left wing. Ever since he failed to play hurt and was traded, he is persona non grata with Lou and the organization. I agree that Sykora will be staying in Pittsburgh and helping them quite a bit. I believe he has 5 goals in the playoffs so far.

I would like to sign Radim Vrbata and maybe we could work out a trade with Buffalo for Kotalik. Gionta and Greene for Kotalik??? Gio should be happy playing closer to home.

BTW, I want to see us get younger and better at the same time. However, for one year, do you think Robert Lang would be a good fit with Elias? If not Lang, how about Vinny Prospal? Just a thought, but if the Rangers don't sign Jagr, could you see Lou going after him? I really don't want Jagr, but if he would sign for a year plus a club option and not cost more than 6 mil, it may be worth it. Elias, Jagr, and Prospal could be a very interesting line. Look at the skill level of Detroit. One line with a very high skill level and great chemistry and three productive lines with Zach on the second, Mad Dog and Pando on the "checking line" and Rupp, Zubrus, and Clarkson on a modern-day "Crash Line" would not be too bad.

I agree that Lou HAS to do something. He has to give Sutter the players to win a Cup. We overachieved all season and we burned out Marty in the process. Time to groom a replacement for Marty. We can win with Kevin Weekes in goal. If we can't, then the team in front of him is not good enough to win another Cup in the first place.

If we could get Martin Havlat on the cheap, would you do it? And what would it take to get Martin Erat and would it be worth it? Don't Erat and Elias train in the off-season?

Later...:yo:

Morrison's finesse would be welcome here. When we lost Gomez, we missed him. Not cause he's so "great" but because he was creative, and we don't have too many creative players on our team. I wouldn't mind only 20 goals if it came with 50-60 assists... for $3.2 million. Not saying Morrison is my goal, but a creative center is definitely something we lack. Elias and Parise are our most creative players, but neither one is a solid play-making center


Brendan Morrison is not a kid anymore and I don't know what he has left. If not Morrison per se, then someone along those lines, like you said, is what we need. Someone who can put the puck in the net when he has the opportunity but looks for the other guy first. If he is small, he has to be fast.

I saw that Buffalo signed Nate Gerbe to a three-year contract. Too bad. The kid is small, but dynamic. It will be interesting to see what he can do in the NHL.

BTW, did anyone sign Ryan Duncan? St. Louis??? Thanks!!!

Kotalik would be interesting here. Big body, he's Czech which would suit Patty's fancy I'd say, and he has a darn good shot from what I have seen (remember that laser he scored against Brodeur after Christmas).

I think he'd be a good fit in New Jersey

Yes!!! Ive been saying this for a while, he may not score as many goals as Rolston, but he plays a similar game. Works magic on the powerplay, and is Czech.

Elias - Vrana - Kotalik
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson

Pretty cheap forward unit, with potential for goals. Gionta can go for all I care.

Maybe, just maybe we could look into Havlat too. Even if he can only manage 60 games (which I realise is hopefull), could you imagine the scoring depth?

Kotalik - Elias - Havlat
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner
Zubrus - Vrana - Clarkson

I would LOVE Havlat. His stock must have dropped being in Chicago, too. He was hurt a lot, and had some locker room issues with Smolinski (who got traded anyway!). Havlat is czech too, correct? He's so freakin' good when he plays, remember how much of a devil killer he was back in '03?

Kotalik - Elias - Havlat
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner
Zubrus - Vrana - Clarkson

Does look good. And then when Havlat gets hurt, you can put Vrana in at center on the first line and move Rupp into the forth. This is, of course, assuming Vrana can play at Elias level.

Erat would be a great pickup too, he plays both wings. I wonder if Nashville would get rid of him. He was their mvp for a solid couple weeks in the first half of the season

Erat would be a great pickup too, he plays both wings. I wonder if Nashville would get rid of him. He was their mvp for a solid couple weeks in the first half of the season

Unfortunately, Erat was re-signed for 7 years yesterday. $4.5mill per.

Would love to pluck out Kevin Klein from Nashville.

If people don't want to pay Hossa 8 million dollars, I don't see why anyone would want to trade for 50-60 games of Marty Havlat and then pay him 6 million dollars to boot.

That's just flawed logic if you ask me.

If people don't want to pay Hossa 8 million dollars, I don't see why anyone would want to trade for 50-60 games of Marty Havlat and then pay him 6 million dollars to boot.

That's just flawed logic if you ask me.

Havlat is only signed for next year.

Hossa would get 6+ years, at $10mill, $8mill cap hit.

;)

Havlat is only signed for next year.

Hossa would get 6+ years, at $10mill, $8mill cap hit.

;)

Then just wait one more season for him to become a free agent at a lesser price, trade for Kotalik this offseason, and then go after Havlat next offseason. :)

Then just wait one more season for him to become a free agent at a lesser price, trade for Kotalik this offseason, and then go after Havlat next offseason. :)

Touche!

I just have always wanted Havlat to become a Devil. Hes just the sort of scorer who would fit nicely. Its a shame his muscles are made of red liqourice.

Touche!

I just have always wanted Havlat to become a Devil. Hes just the sort of scorer who would fit nicely. Its a shame his muscles are made of red liqourice.

They're made of glass...

http://www.impawards.com/2000/posters/unbreakable.jpg

The more I hear it, the more I am liking the idea of Kotalik...

Parise<->Elias-Kotalik
Zubrus-Zajac-Bergfors
Pandolfo-Madden-Langenbrunner
Pelley<->Vrana-Clarkson

When Gomez was signed by the Rangers, it would have been nice to sign Sykora and play him with Elias. Sykora was originally a center, but could have played the right side with Patty at left wing. Ever since he failed to play hurt and was traded, he is persona non grata with Lou and the organization. I agree that Sykora will be staying in Pittsburgh and helping them quite a bit. I believe he has 5 goals in the playoffs so far.

I would like to sign Radim Vrbata and maybe we could work out a trade with Buffalo for Kotalik. Gionta and Greene for Kotalik??? Gio should be happy playing closer to home.

BTW, I want to see us get younger and better at the same time. However, for one year, do you think Robert Lang would be a good fit with Elias? If not Lang, how about Vinny Prospal? Just a thought, but if the Rangers don't sign Jagr, could you see Lou going after him? I really don't want Jagr, but if he would sign for a year plus a club option and not cost more than 6 mil, it may be worth it. Elias, Jagr, and Prospal could be a very interesting line. Look at the skill level of Detroit. One line with a very high skill level and great chemistry and three productive lines with Zach on the second, Mad Dog and Pando on the "checking line" and Rupp, Zubrus, and Clarkson on a modern-day "Crash Line" would not be too bad.

I agree that Lou HAS to do something. He has to give Sutter the players to win a Cup. We overachieved all season and we burned out Marty in the process. Time to groom a replacement for Marty. We can win with Kevin Weekes in goal. If we can't, then the team in front of him is not good enough to win another Cup in the first place.

If we could get Martin Havlat on the cheap, would you do it? And what would it take to get Martin Erat and would it be worth it? Don't Erat and Elias train in the off-season?

Later...:yo:


if gio and kotalik were the center pieces of a deal, the sabres would give up more then the devils gionta has way higher value

Parise-Elais-Zajac
Hagman-Varan-Gionta
Pando-Madden-Langs
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson
Pelly,Brylin

Johnny O-Martin
White-Corrente
Sal-Orpik
Vish
Motts


Use Green and brookbank for some trades, to get a few more picks or pakages for better picks.

Parise-Elais-Zajac
Hagman-Varan-Gionta
Pando-Madden-Langs
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson
Pelly,Brylin

Johnny O-Martin
White-Corrente
Sal-Orpik
Vish
Motts


Use Green and brookbank for some trades, to get a few more picks or pakages for better picks.

I feel like we wouldn't go much further with that lineup...

just throwin one out there for now:

elias (6.0)-lang (4.0)-kotalik (2.5)
parise (3.0)-zajac (.984)-zubrus (3.4)
bergfors (0.56)-madden (2.934)-langenbrunner (2.8)
vrana (.475)-holik (1.5)-clarkson (1.0)
rupp (.475)

white (3.0)-martin (3.0)
oduya (0.6)-stuart (3.5)
salvador (2.0)-corrente (0.9)
vishnevski (1.8)

brodeur (5.2)
weekes (.675)

= just under $50 million

-gionta traded to buffalo for kotalik and a 2nd
- devils trade greene and a 3rd to chicago for lang
- stuart & holik signed; corrente, bergfors, and vrana make the team outta camp and vish as #7 (but he dresses more than the average 7th dman leaguewide)

line combos could be altered and the only problem i may see is still lack of puck moving ability on the backend, but that depends on how much puckmoving skill corrente would bring

just an idea :dunno: .........

Go after Havlat.

Parise-Elias-Havlat makes me warm and fuzzy inside.

Go after Havlat.

Parise-Elias-Havlat makes me warm and fuzzy inside.

Until Havlat separates his shoulder drinking some water at the bench.

Until Havlat separates his shoulder drinking some water at the bench.

Dude, *** do you expect? Those water bottles are heavy! :sarcasm:

I feel like we wouldn't go much further with that lineup...

I feel like this is realistic.

I will take a chance on Havlat, the law of averages says there has to be one season in which he doesnt get injured 11 times.

I will take a chance on Havlat, the law of averages says there has to be one season in which he doesnt get injured 11 times.

Him and Patty are BFF.

Well, nobody pointed this out yet. ;)

Anybody got Zachs stats on his faceoff percentage at the worlds?

Im really intrigued by the fact he is playing center, his game surely suits the role and size is no longer the huge issue it once was in the NHL. The comparison Sutter had for him way back in the season was essentially a poor mans Sidney Crosby, pretty suiting.

The closer we get to the draft and free agent day, the more excited I get.

Zach is too gifted in scoring to drown him with center duties... If you love your winger, set it free, if it scores for you - keep it there. ;)

Zach is too gifted in scoring to drown him with center duties... If you love your winger, set it free, if it scores for you - keep it there. ;)

Ive looked up the stats too, turns out ol' Zach sucks at faceoffs in the Worlds, and is now playing LW. Kessel is his center.

Ah well, just have to settle for 40 goals from the wing. ;)

I can see Havlat as a backup plan for Hossa. Obviously, if we can sign Hossa, I am all for it. If we can't, I believe we could get Havlat on the cheap. I am talking a draft pick and a fringe prospect. If Chicago would want Bergfors or Gionta for Havlat, I would seriously have to think about it. I think I would pass but it is intriguing. :D

I can see Havlat as a backup plan for Hossa. Obviously, if we can sign Hossa, I am all for it. If we can't, I believe we could get Havlat on the cheap. I am talking a draft pick and a fringe prospect. If Chicago would want Bergfors or Gionta for Havlat, I would seriously have to think about it. I think I would pass but it is intriguing. :D

For Havlat, a good 'ol Mr. Lincoln should do the trick...

Could Havlat be had for a second-round pick?

What would be the least we would have to give up to get him?

Thanks for your opinions!!! ;)

I took this from the tradeboard, and it makes alot of sense.

The problem being - he's on the Hawks, who don't have a lot of incentive to deal him while his value is at the floor.

Realistically - you're not going to get anything worthwhile in a trade for Havlat in the off-season, so why trade him? To free up cap space on the slim chance you'll get to sign Hossa? Not a good gamble at all IMO.

I would expect the Hawks to hold onto Halvat, and see what he does next year. This is the biggest year of Havlat's career - if he struggles or get hurt, he's probably looking at a 50% paycut. If Havlat's playing well - the Hawks should be in play-off contention. If for some reason they're not in P/O contention, Havlat (along w/ Bulin & Lang) would be moved as rentals.

The only realistic scenario where Havlat gets traded this offseason is if Tallon somehow manages to sign Hossa, and he needs to free up cap space. If that's the case, the return will be minimal.

As much as I would love to have a prolific scorer like Havlat on this team, it really doesnt make sense for the Hawks to trade him when his value is at rock bottom.

Him and Patty are BFF.

Well, nobody pointed this out yet. ;)

There are also a lot of birds in New Jersey...

6JnTRYPg2OA

There are also a lot of birds in New Jersey...


:laugh:

Czech-mate.

As per NHL 08:

Trades:
Karol Rachunek - Dustin Byfuglien

Brian Gionta, Grant Marshall - Wade Redden, Niko Dimotrakos

Niko Dimotrakos, Travis Zajac - Antoine Vermette

Colin White - Antoine Stralman, Derrick Walser

Arran Asham-ed, 2nd Round Pick - Ales Kotalik


Parise - Elias - Kotalik
Bergfors - Vermette - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Vrana - Rupp - Byfuglien

Redden - Martin
Vishnevski - Stralman
Salvador - Oduya

Brodeur
Weekes

Clarkson
Mottau
Pelley

$50.375

Lets see how it goes.

I tried to get Vyborny and Hainsey in the FA market, but they wouldnt come.

http://hfboards.com/imagehosting/49758482d766396173.jpg

As per NHL 08:

Trades:
Karol Rachunek - Dustin Byfuglien

Brian Gionta, Grant Marshall - Wade Redden, Niko Dimotrakos

Niko Dimotrakos, Travis Zajac - Antoine Vermette

Colin White - Antoine Stralman, Derrick Walser

Arran Asham-ed, 2nd Round Pick - Ales Kotalik


Parise - Elias - Kotalik
Bergfors - Vermette - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Vrana - Rupp - Byfuglien

Redden - Martin
Vishnevski - Stralman
Salvador - Oduya

Brodeur
Weekes

Clarkson
Mottau
Pelley

$50.375

Lets see how it goes.


Redden is UFA, Rachunek is UFA and playing in Russia and is worthless, Asham is UFA and worthless. Plus, Colin White has one bad eye. You better rethink your trades.

Redden is UFA, Rachunek is UFA and playing in Russia and is worthless, Asham is UFA and worthless. Plus, Colin White has one bad eye. You better rethink your trades.

They're his NHL 08 trades dude!! Easy!! :laugh:

i wish nhl 08 was the law. You can make like 10 consecutive trades... keep trading for a guy one better. Than before you know it, you trade colin White for Niklas Lidstrom

They're his NHL 08 trades dude!! Easy!! :laugh:

My bad.

i wish nhl 08 was the law. You can make like 10 consecutive trades... keep trading for a guy one better. Than before you know it, you trade colin White for Niklas Lidstrom

I like trading for guys with fairly high overall averages and extremely high potential, and then sign them to 6 year deals at like 2 mill per. By the third season most of them have 90+ overalls and when their contract expires, I trade them for prospects and start the cycle all over again.

I like trading for guys with fairly high overall averages and extremely high potential, and then sign them to 6 year deals at like 2 mill per. By the third season most of them have 90+ overalls and when their contract expires, I trade them for prospects and start the cycle all over again.

Im just going to call you Louonta.

Redden is UFA, Rachunek is UFA and playing in Russia and is worthless, Asham is UFA and worthless. Plus, Colin White has one bad eye. You better rethink your trades.

I simmed one whole season and at the end I couldnt find any of these guys as UFA's.

Thats why I traded for them. The more important note is I traded for Niko Dimatrakos from Ott and then traded him back to Ott.

Gionta was an 87 and could demand better players in trades.

Good ole NHL08


I saw your reply down below and everythings cool.

My Current lines in NHL 08:

Parise-Elias-Gionta
Vermette-Zajac-Bergfors
Pandolfo-Madden-Langenbrunner
Malone (a 74 for some reason?)-Zubrus-Clarkson

Oduya-Martin
Corrente-Hainsey
Greene-White

Brodeur
Bernier:naughty:

Rupp is the extra, Vrana has played a couple games cause Bergfors injured his shoulder (realistic game, huh?), and I'm contemplating signing Laraque.