Changes for Next Season II [Archive]

Muttley

05-15-2008, 11:01 PM

God I miss this guy.

Why oh why didn't he sign with us two summers ago?! He's the perfect centerman this team is in need of right now. I'd give up a lot to have him back, no doubt about that. Still my favourite player.

I don't think a team will ever win a Stanley Cup without a true #1 Center, or a pair of quality centers like Anaheim had with Andy McDonald and a young, soon to be #1 Center in Ryan Getzlaf.

We were the only exception to that rule in 1995 & 2003, with a group of older, veteran centers, but they were certainly not in the same catergory of a Staal, Lecavalier, Yzerman, Sakic, Modano, Messier, etc.

Look at the 4 teams now in both the ECF & WCF: They all have true or proven #1 Centers

Datsyuk in Detroit
Brad Richards in Dallas
Two #1 Centers with Crosby & Malkin in Pittsburgh
Three potential #1 Centers in Philadelphia with Mike Richards, Carter, & Briere

We will never compete for a Stanley Cup again until Lou addresses this void.

Game Breaker

05-15-2008, 11:07 PM

dzanimal16

05-15-2008, 11:11 PM

i posted this over in the "just lineups" thread...........

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

åboriginal

05-15-2008, 11:14 PM

arnott or jokinen please lou

Darius Dangleaitis

05-15-2008, 11:40 PM

i posted this over in the "just lineups" thread...........

Lang...I just vomited.

Classic Devil

05-16-2008, 12:18 AM

I don't think a team will ever win a Stanley Cup without a true #1 Center, or a pair of quality centers like Anaheim had with Andy McDonald and a young, soon to be #1 Center in Ryan Getzlaf.

We were the only exception to that rule in 1995 & 2003, with a group of older, veteran centers, but they were certainly not in the same catergory of a Staal, Lecavalier, Yzerman, Sakic, Modano, Messier, etc.

Look at the 4 teams now in both the ECF & WCF: They all have true or proven #1 Centers

Datsyuk in Detroit
Brad Richards in Dallas
Two #1 Centers with Crosby & Malkin in Pittsburgh
Three potential #1 Centers in Philadelphia with Mike Richards, Carter, & Briere

We will never compete for a Stanley Cup again until Lou addresses this void.
Unfortunately, the #1 center position is the one spot that is hardest to fill in the NHL. Harder even than goalie, since goalies can develop out of nowhere and backups can become superstars.

The Devils have had very few of them in our history. Gomez and Arnott were both #1 centers some of the time, but neither deserved the title for the majority of their tenure here. They were 1A centers, they could fill the role but were not PPG players like those you name. In Lamoriello's history our #1 centers have been:

Devils Centermen Averaging a PPG
2008 - None
2007 - None (Scott Gomez with 70+)
2006 - Scott Gomez
2005 - No Season
2004 - None (Scott Gomez with 70+)
2003 - None (Scott Gomez with 50+)
2002 - None (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez, Jason Arnott all with 50+)
2001 - Jason Arnott (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez with 50+)
2000 - Jason Arnott (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez with 50+)
1999 - None (Bobby Holik, Jason Arnott, Brendan Morrison with 50+)
1998 - None (Bobby Holik, Doug Gilmour with 50+)
1997 - Doug Gilmour (Bobby Holik with 50+)
1996 - None
1995 - Neal Broten
1994 - None (Valeri Zelepukin, Bernie Nicholls with 50+)
1993 - Alexander Semak
1992 - None (Kevin Todd with 50+)
1991 - None (Kirk Muller with 70+)
1990 - Kirk Muller, Patrik Sundstrom
1989 - Patrik Sundstrom (Kirk Muller with 70+)
1988 - Kirk Muller (Patrik Sundstrom with 50+)
1987 - Kirk Muller

First Line Centers in Devils History (Lamoriello Era):
Kirk Muller 1987-1991
Patrik Sundstrom 1988-1990
Alexander Semak 1993
Neal Broten 1995 (Acquired in trade midseason)
Doug Gilmour 1997-1998 (Acquired in trade midseason)
Jason Arnott 2000-2001
Scott Gomez 2004-2007

To continue: note that for the most part, our first line centermen were not homegrown players. Muller, Semak, and Gomez were the only PPG centers we've had who were drafted by New Jersey, and Semak doesn't even really deserve to count. Sundstrom was acquired in a trade (for a very fine goaltender), Broten and Gilmour were aging #1 centermen in the latter half of their prime, and Arnott was acquired for another first line forward in Guerin.

I do think that Lou will look to fill the #1 center spot this offseason. I expect Lou to go after Sundin.

We've got two major holes to fill: a first line center and a first pairing defenseman. I think Lou will look to find a defenseman through trade and alternative means, because FA defensemen are going to be just way too expensive. A centerman, however, is not something that can be found through trade for anything less than absurd prices. I think Lou will look seriously at his FA options.

MissionHockey

05-16-2008, 12:19 AM

you mean like clarkson?

Clarkson didn't stay on Madden's wing all season, I think mostly because of his inexperience.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 01:34 AM

Clarkson Falls Down

05-16-2008, 01:39 AM

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 02:12 AM

Getzlaf is a number 1 Center right now, no doubt about it.

Richards, while number 1 material, isn't the second line Center in Dallas. Riberio is.

I hope Lou targets a star-power center in this draft. I miss having good center depth like the old days of Arnott/Gomez/Madden/Holik.

Classic Devil

05-16-2008, 02:26 AM

I hope Lou targets a star-power center in this draft. I miss having good center depth like the old days of Arnott/Gomez/Madden/Holik.
Holik always came before Madden.

We could definitely use a center prospect.

MissionHockey

05-16-2008, 02:46 AM

I love Clarkson but his upside from what we've seen is nothing more than a solid fourth liner that can contribute on offense every so often. It's nothing to be disappointed in since he was undrafted, after all.

He's already more than a 4th liner so I don't know where you are seeing that. His skating is pretty shoddy, but he's as physical as you could expect him to be and has some pretty decent hands to too.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 04:08 AM

He's already more than a 4th liner so I don't know where you are seeing that. His skating is pretty shoddy, but he's as physical as you could expect him to be and has some pretty decent hands to too.

Clarkie might have the upside of a 3rd liner, but hes certainly not one yet.

He needs to work on his stickhandling, passing, skating and keeping his frickin stick on the floor.

Im not worried about him, these are all things he can work on over the summer, but for now DD is correct. Clarkson is a 4th liner.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 04:31 AM

He's already more than a 4th liner so I don't know where you are seeing that. His skating is pretty shoddy, but he's as physical as you could expect him to be and has some pretty decent hands to too.

What I'm saying is that I can't see him contributing on a scoring line or being able to match up with other teams' top lines like the Madden line does. That said, he's a very effective fourth liner. He can hit, fight, score, but he's not going to wow anyone. That is the essence of a fourth liner in today's NHL.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 06:26 AM

Holik always came before Madden.

We could definitely use a center prospect.

Madden as a fourth line center...just goes to show how great that team was.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 06:59 AM

I dont care what anyone says, I hope Holik retires a Devil.

Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson

:handclap:

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 07:27 AM

I dont care what anyone says, I hope Holik retires a Devil.

Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson

:handclap:

Make it happen Lou.

Better add some young talent in the top six if you're going to add Frankenstein on the back end though.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 07:37 AM

Make it happen Lou.

Better add some young talent in the top six if you're going to add Frankenstein on the back end though.

Oh yeah deffinately, I think were seeing an evolution in the Devils' offense.

I have my fingers crossed that Bergfors can be as good as Sykora, and Vrana a younger, lil more offensive version of Brylin. In all honesty I wouldnt be upset if both make the team, I mean Vrana deserves the shot and Bergfors sounds like our most NHL ready forward prospect.

Heres a scenario that could happen (If Lou decides to build from within, continuing this quasi-rebuild).

Elias - Vrana - Langs
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson

My predictions for goals:

Elias: 25
Vrana: 10
Langs: 20
Parise: 35+
Zajac: 15-20
Bergfors: 20
Pandolfo: 15
Madden: 20
Gionta: 20
Zubrus: 15
Rupp: 5
Clarkson: 10

That puts us around 210 goals. Not bad, considering some of the names in there, and their ages. This could all change of course, if Lou decides to push for the cup next year.

I should mention that, if this is what our offense looks like next season, it gives Lou a ton of wiggle room to add to the defense. Which IMO, is the glaring weakness. It gives him cap-room and freedom to trade/sign young blood for the future. This team is probably 2-3 years from mounting a serious challenge for the cup.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-16-2008, 07:59 AM

I'd like to see us go with that youth movement from within combined with an influx of talent from elsewhere. I'd like to see us target a guy like Vermette or Malone...someone who can still develop with us.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 08:03 AM

Brooklyndevil

05-16-2008, 09:23 AM

Oh yeah deffinately, I think were seeing an evolution in the Devils' offense.

I have my fingers crossed that Bergfors can be as good as Sykora, and Vrana a younger, lil more offensive version of Brylin. In all honesty I wouldnt be upset if both make the team, I mean Vrana deserves the shot and Bergfors sounds like our most NHL ready forward prospect.

Heres a scenario that could happen (If Lou decides to build from within, continuing this quasi-rebuild).

Elias - Vrana - Langs
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson

My predictions for goals:

Elias: 25
Vrana: 10
Langs: 20
Parise: 35+
Zajac: 15-20
Bergfors: 20
Pandolfo: 15
Madden: 20
Gionta: 20
Zubrus: 15
Rupp: 5
Clarkson: 10

That puts us around 210 goals. Not bad, considering some of the names in there, and their ages. This could all change of course, if Lou decides to push for the cup next year.

I should mention that, if this is what our offense looks like next season, it gives Lou a ton of wiggle room to add to the defense. Which IMO, is the glaring weakness. It gives him cap-room and freedom to trade/sign young blood for the future. This team is probably 2-3 years from mounting a serious challenge for the cup.

I wouldn't mind your line-up at all. Go with home grown youth and add a Stuart and Hainsey, plus Corrente. But we still may need one more offensive player. And Bergfors netting 20 is pushing it, maybe 15. Hope you're right.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 09:28 AM

I wouldn't mind your line-up at all. Go with home grown youth and add a Stuart and Hainsey, plus Corrente. But we still may need one more offensive player. And Bergfors netting 20 is pushing it, maybe 15. Hope you're right.

The key is the defense. Watching the puck being miss-handled in the offensive zone by the defenseman was horrible this season, the only guy who could keep the puck in the zone was Martin, and even he struggled at times.

The defense just plain sucked at anything in the offensive zone this season, its bad when Johnny Oduya is your 2nd pointman.

åboriginal

05-16-2008, 02:27 PM

Oh yeah deffinately, I think were seeing an evolution in the Devils' offense.

I have my fingers crossed that Bergfors can be as good as Sykora, and Vrana a younger, lil more offensive version of Brylin. In all honesty I wouldnt be upset if both make the team, I mean Vrana deserves the shot and Bergfors sounds like our most NHL ready forward prospect.

Heres a scenario that could happen (If Lou decides to build from within, continuing this quasi-rebuild).

Elias - Vrana - Langs
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Gionta
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson

if lou has a brainfart and does absolutely nothing and this is how things unfold, then i like those lines...with exception to langs. i honestly dunno who id replace him with because their collective offense was kinda....random(zubrus im looking in ur direction.) i still say the langs/madden/pando line is a perfect 3rd line with a little jump. so i suppose thatd move gio to the 1st line. but when it comes to 1st and 2nd lines, there NEEDS to be CONSISTENT scoring theats. so until langs gets his aim and scoring threat back up to snuff, then he doesnt belong anywhere near the first line. still, we also have no idea how bergy and vrana will work out, so....i dunno. i just pray this isnt how the devils look next year, or its gonna be another long one.

Muttley

05-16-2008, 05:36 PM

Unfortunately, the #1 center position is the one spot that is hardest to fill in the NHL. Harder even than goalie, since goalies can develop out of nowhere and backups can become superstars.

The Devils have had very few of them in our history. Gomez and Arnott were both #1 centers some of the time, but neither deserved the title for the majority of their tenure here. They were 1A centers, they could fill the role but were not PPG players like those you name. In Lamoriello's history our #1 centers have been:

Devils Centermen Averaging a PPG
2008 - None
2007 - None (Scott Gomez with 70+)
2006 - Scott Gomez
2005 - No Season
2004 - None (Scott Gomez with 70+)
2003 - None (Scott Gomez with 50+)
2002 - None (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez, Jason Arnott all with 50+)
2001 - Jason Arnott (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez with 50+)
2000 - Jason Arnott (Bobby Holik, Scott Gomez with 50+)
1999 - None (Bobby Holik, Jason Arnott, Brendan Morrison with 50+)
1998 - None (Bobby Holik, Doug Gilmour with 50+)
1997 - Doug Gilmour (Bobby Holik with 50+)
1996 - None
1995 - Neal Broten
1994 - None (Valeri Zelepukin, Bernie Nicholls with 50+)
1993 - Alexander Semak
1992 - None (Kevin Todd with 50+)
1991 - None (Kirk Muller with 70+)
1990 - Kirk Muller, Patrik Sundstrom
1989 - Patrik Sundstrom (Kirk Muller with 70+)
1988 - Kirk Muller (Patrik Sundstrom with 50+)
1987 - Kirk Muller

First Line Centers in Devils History (Lamoriello Era):
Kirk Muller 1987-1991
Patrik Sundstrom 1988-1990
Alexander Semak 1993
Neal Broten 1995 (Acquired in trade midseason)
Doug Gilmour 1997-1998 (Acquired in trade midseason)
Jason Arnott 2000-2001
Scott Gomez 2004-2007

To continue: note that for the most part, our first line centermen were not homegrown players. Muller, Semak, and Gomez were the only PPG centers we've had who were drafted by New Jersey, and Semak doesn't even really deserve to count. Sundstrom was acquired in a trade (for a very fine goaltender), Broten and Gilmour were aging #1 centermen in the latter half of their prime, and Arnott was acquired for another first line forward in Guerin.

I do think that Lou will look to fill the #1 center spot this offseason. I expect Lou to go after Sundin.

We've got two major holes to fill: a first line center and a first pairing defenseman. I think Lou will look to find a defenseman through trade and alternative means, because FA defensemen are going to be just way too expensive. A centerman, however, is not something that can be found through trade for anything less than absurd prices. I think Lou will look seriously at his FA options.

In our 3 Cup years, we had tremendous depth at center.

In 1995 at the trade deadline, Lou got Neil Broten to complement Holik & Carpenter. In 2003 we had Nieuwendyk from the season before to complement Gomez & Madden. And of course we had Arnott in 2000.

I think people mistakenly think that we need to go after the "sexy", high profile Center that would be almost impossible to get. It sure as heck would be nice, but that's not the way Lou has operated.

Patrick Marleau and even a Jarret Stoll for example would be the perfect type of Center that can become a number #1 Center here. People were angry at Lou when he traded Guerin for Arnott, but nobody envisioned that he would be so dynamic in that he would Center and lead our most prolific line in team history.

Jarret Stoll can be another Arnott, but when you post such a suggestion, you get the usual "no thanks", or "Oh, I wouldn't trade (insert Devil player name here) for a Jarret Stoll"

Other than Martin Brodeur and Parise who I would only trade for only 4 or 5 players in the league, there is really no one on the team I wouldn't mind see go to get us the Center that we need.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-16-2008, 05:39 PM

In our 3 Cup years, we had tremendous depth at center.

In 1995 at the trade deadline, Lou got Neil Broten to complement Holik & Carpenter. In 2003 we had Nieuwendyk from the season before to complement Gomez & Madden. And of course we had Arnott in 2000.

I think people mistakenly think that we need to go after the "sexy", high profile Center that would be almost impossible to get. It sure as heck would be nice, but that's not the way Lou has operated.

Patrick Marleau and even a Jarret Stoll for example would be the perfect type of Center that can become a number #1 Center here. People were angry at Lou when he traded Guerin for Arnott, but nobody envisioned that he would be so dynamic in that he would Center and lead our most prolific line in team history.

Jarret Stoll can be another Arnott, but when you post such a suggestion, you get the usual "no thanks", or "Oh, I wouldn't trade (insert Devil player name here) for a Jarret Stoll"

Other than Martin Brodeur and Parise who I would only trade for only 4 or 5 players in the league, there is really no one on the team I wouldn't mind see go to get us the Center that we need.

I'm with you Mutt. I'd love to get Stoll in a Devils uniform. Big size, two way game, hard shot.

Devilswede

05-16-2008, 05:42 PM

Muttley

05-16-2008, 05:42 PM

I'm with you Mutt. I'd love to get Stoll in a Devils uniform. Big size, two way game, hard shot.

There was an infamous thread here about Stoll earlier this season. When people dared to suggest to trade Travis "#2 Center on paper only" Zajac, they were roundly criticized for daring to suggest such heresy. :sarcasm:

Classic Devil

05-16-2008, 05:47 PM

There was an infamous thread here about Stoll earlier this season. When people dared to suggest to trade Travis "#2 Center on paper only" Zajac, they were roundly criticized for daring to suggest such heresy. :sarcasm:
I think Stoll can be had for less than Zajac. I'd rather trade Zajac for a defenseman.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-16-2008, 05:47 PM

There was an infamous thread here about Stoll earlier this season. When people dared to suggest to trade Travis "#2 Center on paper only" Zajac, they were roundly criticized for daring to suggest such heresy. :sarcasm:

I'd do Stoll for Zajac, but I don't think we're in a position to trade a Center for a Center. Stoll and Zajac, perhaps even Vrana could form a nice Center depth down the line.

britdevil

05-16-2008, 05:50 PM

There was an infamous thread here about Stoll earlier this season. When people dared to suggest to trade Travis "#2 Center on paper only" Zajac, they were roundly criticized for daring to suggest such heresy. :sarcasm:

Think I suggested Stoll back in that thread. Think it was Elias for Stoll and Torres.

Probably jumped the gun a lil there, but I stil have alot of interest in Stoll.

Devilsfanatic

05-16-2008, 05:55 PM

I hate Stoll because of one of the NHL games. he was rated 70 but had huge potential, every year he'd be decent, but his overall never went up. I traded for him hoping he'd realize his potential and at least become an 80 but no, he always stayed on 70. Stupid Stoll. Same thing happened with me and Papineau in NHL 2002.

Game Breaker

05-16-2008, 07:24 PM

What would it take to get Stoll here? Gionta and a pick?

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

I would definitely like to add another top six RW and maybe move Zubrus down with Vrana and Clarkson.

Brodeur

05-16-2008, 07:51 PM

Holik's ego is too big to accept 4:th line money. I don't think he'd have a problem with being a 4:th line centerman..the thing with Bobby is that he won't accept the money a 4:th line centerman usually gets.

Holik is probably looking at a contract that will pay him around $2 million or more. Are you prepared to pay that to a 4:th line centerman? I certainly am not.

Bobby will take what the market gets him. I know we all hate him for leaving the first time, but can't blame him for taking a huge deal to set him and his grandchildren's grandchildren for life.

Post-lockout, Atlanta thought they were getting a #2 shutdown center with 50 point potential. That was worth 4.2 mil/year to them.

Now how much is a 37 year old Holik going to be worth to people? Some team might be crazy enough to offer a multi-year deal but I doubt it. Something along the lines of what Mike Peca signed with Columbus sounds more plausible (1.3 million with bonuses).

And honestly a one year 2 mil contract isn't the end of the world. Realistically we're not spending to the cap this year and a one year deal isn't going to hamper us down the road.

Richer's Ghost

05-16-2008, 08:30 PM

Because there's no way any of us will actually predict the off-season moves Lou will make in his super-bourne-stealth-like-ways.... I'll just state for thread II that the only change I want is this;

More Stanley Cup.

Cheers.

Elite Swede

05-17-2008, 04:02 AM

A little list I compiled from the UFA 2008 hfboard thread and nhlnumbers.com:

2008 UFA:
32 Brendan Morrison (C)
33 Glen Metropolit (C)
27 Jason Williams (C)

33 Jay Pandolfo (L)
32 Jody Shelley (L)
29 Kristian Huselius (L)
28 Ladislav Nagy (L)
29 Matt Cooke (L)
29 Sergei Samsonov (L)

35 Brian Rolston (R)
29 Marian Hossa (R)
28 Michael Ryder (R)
33 Pavol Demitra (R)

28 Brad Stuart (D)
28 Brian Campbell (D)
27 Brooks Orpik (D)
27 John-Michael Liles (D)
30 Mark Streit (D)
28 Mike Commodore (D)
27 Ron Hainsey (D)
30 Wade Redden (D)

37 Bobby Holik (C) (Czech – Frankenstein)
33 Vaclav Prospal (C) (Czech)
33 David Vyborny (R) (Czech)
26 Radim Vrbata (R) (Czech)

RFA 2008:
22 Corey Perry (R)
22 Steve Bernier (R)
24 Tuomo Ruutu (C)
22 Dustin Byfuglien (D)
21 Andrew Ladd (L)
25 Jarret Stoll (C)
23 Jay Bouwmeester (D)
22 Patrick O’Sullivan (C)
23 Pierre Marc Bouchard (C)
22 Jaroslav Halak (G)
22 Ryan Suter (D)
24 Antoine Vermette (C)
22 Jeff Carter (C)
21 Mike Green (D)

As for the UFA's, it appears Vyborny or Vrbata (two Czechs) might not cost that much; under 2.5 mil. I know Vyborny was hurt, but could him or Vrbata make Elias happy?

Also, I have heard the upcoming draft years will be stacked with good talent but some of these guys on the RFA list I would love to have.

Anyway

Dreeeeeeeeeeaamm, Dream, Dream, Dream

fortheloveof666

05-17-2008, 04:05 AM

I would love to get O'Sullivan from LA, even as an RFA.

Elite Swede

05-17-2008, 04:07 AM

I would love to get O'Sullivan from LA, even as an RFA.

Yea he is a good young player. American I believe, Hey Parise.

Also, good look on that Gina Carano. Ill be cheering for her.

Devilswede

05-18-2008, 11:55 AM

Could a guy like Per Ledin be something for the Devils? He had a good outing during the World Championship and is apparently generating a lot of interest from several NHL teams now.

He could maybe something for the 4:th line? He adds grit, toughness and is also a pretty good player. He chirps a lot too. I guess you can say that he's the Swedish version of Jarkko Rutuu. :)

Devilsfanatic

05-18-2008, 12:03 PM

åboriginal

05-18-2008, 12:18 PM

No, no Swedes allowed.

...if they can be an asset to the team...what difference does it make? id take a somalian player(if there ever was one) if they can help with the pp or stand up for señor martypants.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 12:34 PM

Devilswede

05-18-2008, 12:45 PM

No, no Swedes allowed.

Yeah...Nick Lidström/Henrik Zetterberg/Mats Sundin/Peter Forsberg/Tomas Holmström/Nicklas Kronwall/Johan Franzén/Daniel Alfredsson really suck...

They would never make the Devils. They're just not good enough.

åboriginal

05-18-2008, 12:51 PM

Don't we have enough 4th liners on the team already? Methinks we need to focus more on the top 6.

while i can agree with that, i really think the devs would benefit from 4th liners that actually stood up and punished anyone that even looked at marty or our "star" players shifty eyed. asham while he can fight didnt impress me with standing up for anyone. rupp also the same, although i did like what i saw towards the end. and clarkson, well he could be the exception but just barely. the devs seriously need to look into the regulator player over the offseason as well as the pp/center/defensive improvements. i like how avery and his antics were a complete nonfactor against the pens as opposed to how he helped to completely throw the devs off their collective games.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 12:56 PM

while i can agree with that, i really think the devs would benefit from 4th liners that actually stood up and punished anyone that even looked at marty or our "star" players shifty eyed. asham while he can fight didnt impress me with standing up for anyone. rupp also the same, although i did like what i saw towards the end. and clarkson, well he could be the exception but just barely. the devs seriously need to look into the regulator player over the offseason as well as the pp/center/defensive improvements. i like how avery and his antics were a complete nonfactor against the pens as opposed to how he helped to completely throw the devs off their collective games.

I agree with you there on your assessment and you'd have to be blind to not realize that we could use a little more in the toughness category.

That being said, we still have more pressing needs that should be addressed. However, we need an upgrade over a 4th liner like Asham who I was gravely disappointed in this season. I expected alot from him and he was basically a ghost on the ice.

åboriginal

05-18-2008, 01:03 PM

I agree with you there on your assessment and you'd have to be blind to not realize that we could use a little more in the toughness category.

That being said, we still have more pressing needs that should be addressed. However, we need an upgrade over a 4th liner like Asham who I was gravely disappointed in this season. I expected alot from him and he was basically a ghost on the ice.

i know, i was too. at the start he played really well and looked as if hed be sortve consistent and be more of an impact throughout the entire season...then he disappeared and im sure the sutter fallout didnt help much. and believe me, im dying for lou to splurge and get the big talent center they so desperately need. ive been painfully obvious in who i want so i wont be a broken record yet again:D.

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 01:29 PM

Yeah...Nick Lidström/Henrik Zetterberg/Mats Sundin/Peter Forsberg/Tomas Holmström/Nicklas Kronwall/Johan Franzén/Daniel Alfredsson really suck...

They would never make the Devils. They're just not good enough.

Holmstrom doesn't count an doesn't deserve to be amongst the rest of those names, even Franzen. :)

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 01:31 PM

i know, i was too. at the start he played really well and looked as if hed be sortve consistent and be more of an impact throughout the entire season...then he disappeared and im sure the sutter fallout didnt help much. and believe me, im dying for lou to splurge and get the big talent center they so desperately need. ive been painfully obvious in who i want so i wont be a broken record yet again:D.

Does his name rhyme with Fokinen?;)

åboriginal

05-18-2008, 01:34 PM

Does his name rhyme with Fokinen?;)

haha....possibly

Rochester22

05-18-2008, 01:36 PM

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

thoughts?

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 01:41 PM

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

thoughts?

Why rush Halischuk? And where is el Capitano?

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 01:43 PM

Why rush Halischuk? And where is el Capitano?

:laugh: exactly.

Brooklyndevil

05-18-2008, 01:57 PM

The problem I see this year is that it isn't exactly a great UFA year. There are about a dozen solid players, defensemen and forwards combined, with at least half the teams in the league will be trying to sign. It will be tough. As Brooks noted today in the NY Post, maybe Lou should go after Jeff Carter and fill a few holes via UFA

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 02:07 PM

Devilsfanatic

05-18-2008, 02:11 PM

Yeah...Nick Lidström/Henrik Zetterberg/Mats Sundin/Peter Forsberg/Tomas Holmström/Nicklas Kronwall/Johan Franzén/Daniel Alfredsson really suck...

They would never make the Devils. They're just not good enough.

Yep, I wouldn't want any of those freaks on my team.

Rochester22

05-18-2008, 02:18 PM

Why rush Halischuk? And where is el Capitano?

oops

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

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 02:20 PM

oops

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

personally I think Zubs is far better than a 4th line role.

Rochester22

05-18-2008, 02:24 PM

personally I think Zubs is far better than a 4th line role.

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

1st line 18 minutes
2nd line 15 minutes
3rd line 15 minutes
4th line 12 minutes

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 02:29 PM

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

1st line 18 minutes
2nd line 15 minutes
3rd line 15 minutes
4th line 12 minutes

minus my thoughts that Halischuk might need some more time to develop, I like that roster right there.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 02:57 PM

Classic Devil

05-18-2008, 03:01 PM

Darius Dangleaitis

05-18-2008, 03:13 PM

fortheloveof666

05-18-2008, 03:23 PM

Devilswede

05-18-2008, 04:26 PM

We've been most successful in development when our prospects spend a year or two in the AHL. See: Elias, Sykora, Madden, Gionta, Rolston, Smith, Souray, Modry, Brylin, Hulse, Bombardir, Pederson, Schwab, Pellerin, Pandolfo, Dunham... All Devils signees or draft picks. All spent at least a year in the AHL. All eventually became NHL regulars. Don't rush Halischuk.

I agree about not rushing him, but bringing up our farm from the past doesn't mean anything these days. Back in those days we had a great farm team and players actually developed down there. How could they not?

These days players go to Lowell to die. Every bit of confidence a prospect might have disappears on that joke of a team. Hopefully things will turn around soon down there. Because if they don't we might run out of prospects soon..

MissionHockey

05-18-2008, 06:24 PM

I agree about not rushing him, but bringing up our farm from the past doesn't mean anything these days. Back in those days we had a great farm team and players actually developed down there. How could they not?

These days players go to Lowell to die. Every bit of confidence a prospect might have disappears on that joke of a team. Hopefully things will turn around soon down there. Because if they don't we might run out of prospects soon..

If a player can't handle big minutes in Lowell how are they supposed to be expected to play a major role in the NHL? Just because Niklas Bergfors is pouting doesn't mean we should change the way we do things.

Muttley

05-18-2008, 06:25 PM

oops

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

We're not going anywhere without a legitmate #1 natural Center.

Game Breaker

05-18-2008, 06:36 PM

We're not going anywhere without a legitmate #1 natural Center.

Thank you...

Clarkson Falls Down

05-18-2008, 06:38 PM

We're not going anywhere without a legitmate #1 natural Center.

But the question is if we can find one this offseason. I'm not sure we can.
I won't be crying myself to sleep if I see Patty centering the first line come opening night.

But I will be upset if we don't upgrade the defense.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-18-2008, 06:44 PM

We need at least one solid addition to the top six and one solid defenseman. That's a great start IMO.

Muttley

05-18-2008, 06:46 PM

But the question is if we can find one this offseason. I'm not sure we can.
I won't be crying myself to sleep if I see Patty centering the first line come opening night.

But I will be upset if we don't upgrade the defense.

That's the point.

If we don't get a center, our offense will continue to stink and we will be fighting for a playoff spot yet again, with no real power to get past the 1st round.

Elias needs to go back to wing and concentrate on doing what he is supposed to be doing: scoring goals. Playing Center is stifiling his creativity at most times.

Yes, he played better since moving to Center in December, but he is wasting his goal scoring chances by setting other's up as a Center and frankly, he doesn't make his winger linemates any better playing at Center.

A center is supposed to make his linmates better and I don't see that happening with Patrik Elias at Center.

Elite Swede

05-18-2008, 06:56 PM

Vrana - Elias - Vyborny/Vrbata
Parise - Vermette - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Madden - Zubrus
Davis - Rupp - Clarkson

Redden - Martin
Commodore - Oduya
Vish - Corrente

Brodeur
Weekes

This probably doesnt work, but whatever.

What the lineup will prob be:

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

Devils Pride 26

05-18-2008, 06:59 PM

Elite Swede

05-18-2008, 07:03 PM

Zajac????

Traded in first lineup
Added in second lineup

thanks

MissionHockey

05-18-2008, 07:05 PM

That's the point.

If we don't get a center, our offense will continue to stink and we will be fighting for a playoff spot yet again, with no real power to get past the 1st round.

Elias needs to go back to wing and concentrate on doing what he is supposed to be doing: scoring goals. Playing Center is stifiling his creativity at most times.

Yes, he played better since moving to Center in December, but he is wasting his goal scoring chances by setting other's up as a Center and frankly, he doesn't make his winger linemates any better playing at Center.

A center is supposed to make his linmates better and I don't see that happening with Patrik Elias at Center.

I respectfully disagree. Patrik has lost some of his goal scoring touch in past years IMO and before this year he was on the wing and he only scored 21 goals anyway. I think he and Parise do make each other better and I also think he has become more creative with the way he distributes the puck.

I believe that we need better more consistency from the blueline and somebody other than Martin that can QB the powerplay (Liles anybody?) The better the transition from our defense to our forwards becomes, the better the offense will become.

cjmurph

05-18-2008, 07:47 PM

Realistically...replace Asham with Vrana and replace Rachunek with Hainsey or Liles. Unfortunately I doubt Lou does anything more significant than that. I think bringing in Liles or Hainsey is probably even somewhat of a long shot.

Brooklyndevil

05-18-2008, 09:03 PM

Well he couldn't say that without taking another jab at the Devils. What a p.o.s. Brooks is. :shakehead

I know he took a jab, but you know what, he's right.

Killa Cam Janssen

05-18-2008, 09:37 PM

I could deal with not getting a top line talent mainlly because there arent many but also because i think gionta played really well with elias and parise and could put up 30+ goals with them. but we do need some secondary scoring to support zajac and bergfors/langs. something like this could work:

Elias-Parise-Gionta
???-Zajac-Langs
Pando-Madden-Zubrus
Brylin-Pelley/Vrana-Clarkson
Rupp

Martin-Oduya
Roszival/Redden-White
Sal-Greene
Vish

The ??? should be either a good UFA (Prospal, Demitra) or a rookie if he impresses (Bergfors, Vrana). Either way it will be another weak year for secondary scoring unless Zajac steps up.

Muttley

05-18-2008, 10:02 PM

I respectfully disagree. Patrik has lost some of his goal scoring touch in past years IMO and before this year he was on the wing and he only scored 21 goals anyway. I think he and Parise do make each other better and I also think he has become more creative with the way he distributes the puck.

I believe that we need better more consistency from the blueline and somebody other than Martin that can QB the powerplay (Liles anybody?) The better the transition from our defense to our forwards becomes, the better the offense will become.

I don't believe Elias' skills have eroded at all. For some odd reason over the last two seasons, he has morphed into being more of a playmaker and seems to always prefer to pass the puck and ruin a perfectly good scoring chance. We have all seen this many times.

In the playoffs when he took matters into his own hands and concentrated on shooting rather then passing, he was able to return to his true goal scoring form and have a great postseason. This was the Patrik Elias we all knew.

It's no coincidence that Elias played his best hockey career wise when he had Jason Arnott as his Center.

Elias needs a real playmaking Center to return to his 30 goal form. Otherwise, expect yet another 20 goal/30 assist underperforming season.

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-18-2008, 10:08 PM

I don't believe Elias' skills have eroded at all. For some odd reason over the last two seasons, he has morphed into being more of a playmaker and seems to always prefer to pass the puck and ruin a perfectly good scoring chance. We have all seen this many times.

In the playoffs when he took matters into his own hands and concentrated on shooting rather then passing, he was able to return to his true goal scoring form and have a great postseason. This was the Patrik Elias we all knew.

It's no coincidence that Elias played his best hockey career wise when he had Jason Arnott as his Center.

Elias needs a real playmaking Center to return to his 30 goal form. Otherwise, expect yet another 20 goal/30 assist underperforming season.

Elias was close to a PPG at center. This is where he should stay. Citing 5 games as evidence that he can return to his sniper-esque ways is foolish. I'm not sure why you would want to mess with something that worked.

Instead, let's keep Parise - Elias - someone, and get a real second line center.

Classic Devil

05-18-2008, 11:38 PM

I think we should make a real pitch for Sundin, and then trade for Havlat while his value is low. I recognize the fact that this would eat a ton of cap space, and that Havlat's injury history is one which makes everyone wary, but I don't think there's any question that when healthy they would add a serious offensive dimension to this team which has been missing one for the better part of a decade.

If Havlat does spend a lot of time injured, that opens up a bunch of cap space in order to make a trade deadline acquisition. Besides, assuming Gionta goes out when Havlat and Sundin come in, between the two of them you're only looking at between $7M and $9M of cap space, which gives us plenty of bargaining room to bring in a puck-moving defenseman.

Moreover, bringing in both pushes Langenbrunner and Zubrus down to the bottom 2 lines, giving us plenty of depth to deal with those injuries when they come. And I can't think of a better place for Bergfors to make his way in the NHL than on a line with Elias and Sundin.

Elias - Sundin - Bergfors
Parise - Zajac - Havlat
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner
Zubrus - Rupp - Clarkson

devsfan4life

05-18-2008, 11:50 PM

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-19-2008, 12:09 AM

Even if we do get Havlat I think you'll see a Parise - Elias- Havlat line.

I don't really want to see Sundin here, and I doubt it will happen.

You want an overrated schlub in Malone but don't want Sundin?

guyincognito

05-19-2008, 12:12 AM

LOL, if we were to ever get Sundin (something I don't really see as being possible), we should make a push for Caber and rip off the Leafs' PP. Martin can play the part of Kaberle. Maybe not well, but he could try... 3 man game where Elias and Parise can hunt deflections and rebounds...

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 12:15 AM

Clarkson Falls Down

05-19-2008, 12:16 AM

I don't believe Elias' skills have eroded at all. For some odd reason over the last two seasons, he has morphed into being more of a playmaker and seems to always prefer to pass the puck and ruin a perfectly good scoring chance. We have all seen this many times.

In the playoffs when he took matters into his own hands and concentrated on shooting rather then passing, he was able to return to his true goal scoring form and have a great postseason. This was the Patrik Elias we all knew.

It's no coincidence that Elias played his best hockey career wise when he had Jason Arnott as his Center.

Elias needs a real playmaking Center to return to his 30 goal form. Otherwise, expect yet another 20 goal/30 assist underperforming season.

Which is a reason why that if the Devils don't get a Number 1 Center, I wouldn't mind at all keeping Elias there.

As somebody mentioned before, he was nearly a PPG as a Center. And I think playing with Parise will give him more confidence to shoot a bit more as well.

Classic Devil

05-19-2008, 12:20 AM

i really dont see sundin going anywhere. which is kinda sad since hell never get that cup in toronto. oh well. sucks to be him. wait, hes making millions, future hall of famer and is the captain of a storied franchise. sucks to be me.
I think Toronto and Sundin may be finished after the way he was treated at the deadline. If I was Mats Sundin, I'd retire before I played before that ungrateful crowd again.

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 12:29 AM

I think Toronto and Sundin may be finished after the way he was treated at the deadline. If I was Mats Sundin, I'd retire before I played before that ungrateful crowd again.

def an understatement there:D. if he does actually go anywhere, if i were him, id head to detroit.

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 12:31 AM

def an understatement there:D. if he does actually go anywhere, if i were him, id head to detroit.

or maybe Phoenix. Play for Gretzky, and technically finish his career where he started it. Phoenix could use a guy like him for the young guys on the squad and it has that special kind of ending to a very solid career.

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 12:41 AM

or maybe Phoenix. Play for Gretzky, and technically finish his career where he started it. Phoenix could use a guy like him for the young guys on the squad and it has that special kind of ending to a very solid career.

hes the kinda player that would just make everyone around him better and i know hed be put to great use with the up and comers down there. and while i dont doubt anything, in my head when i think of sundin choosing between those two, it might look like this
yotes-schnitz and giggles with the great one telling me what to do, teach kids the ways of the force
or
wings-high probability of cuppage, half of team sweden

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 12:43 AM

hes the kinda player that would just make everyone around him better and i know hed be put to great use with the up and comers down there. and while i dont doubt anything, in my head when i think of sundin choosing between those two, it might look like this
yotes-schnitz and giggles with the great one telling me what to do, teach kids the ways of the force
or
wings-high probability of cuppage, half of team sweden

hahah yeah, you've definitely got a point there. He'll likely want to try and go for a last ditch effort (or two) at a cup. So a strong contender could probably be in the best position.

I'm sure New York will convince them they're actually a contender. :nod:

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 12:47 AM

hahah yeah, you've definitely got a point there. He'll likely want to try and go for a last ditch effort (or two) at a cup. So a strong contender could probably be in the best position.

I'm sure New York will convince them they're actually a contender. :nod:

i dont wanna use the i just threw up a little in my mouth quote, so i wont:D

devsfan4life

05-19-2008, 12:50 AM

You want an overrated schlub in Malone but don't want Sundin?

I don't necessarily think that Malone is overrated. He's tough as nails and would fit in perfectly with the Devils. Sundin is 37 or 38 and his best days are behind him. Also I don't really think he's the best fit out there for the team, right now.

Devs

05-19-2008, 12:51 AM

or maybe Phoenix. Play for Gretzky, and technically finish his career where he started it. Phoenix could use a guy like him for the young guys on the squad and it has that special kind of ending to a very solid career.

Psst... Sundin was drafted by the Nordiques, not the Jets. I'm sure the Aves fans wouldn't mind getting Sundin though.

If you want an old European player to finish his career with the Jets/Coyotes franchise, you're thinking of Selanne then. As for Sundin, I would welcome him to the Devils with open arms. He would be the big centerman we've been missing since Arnott.

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 12:53 AM

Psst... Sundin was drafted by the Nordiques, not the Jets. I'm sure the aves fans wouldn't mind getting Sundin though.

If you want an old European player to finish his career with the Jets/cootes franchise, you're thinking of Selanne then. As for Sundin, I would welcome him to the Devils with open arms. He would be the big centerman we've been missing since Arnott.

oh **** me, I'm thinking of Selanne.

I stand embarrassingly corrected. haha

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 12:55 AM

I don't necessarily think that Malone is overrated. He's tough as nails and would fit in perfectly with the Devils. Sundin is 37 or 38 and his best days are behind him. Also I don't really think he's the best fit out there for the team, right now.

I don't think Malone is overrated at all. He might be getting some help by being on the ice with some of the leagues best players, but I think he's got the character, two-way ability, and hard edge to him that makes him a great asset.

Plus c'mon, he dropped the gloves like 6 seconds into the game that one night. You gotta love that.

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 12:57 AM

man....july first is just too damn far away it seems

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 12:59 AM

man....july first is just too damn far away it seems

as Devil fans though...do we really have much to look forward to ever?

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-19-2008, 01:11 AM

I don't necessarily think that Malone is overrated. He's tough as nails and would fit in perfectly with the Devils. Sundin is 37 or 38 and his best days are behind him. Also I don't really think he's the best fit out there for the team, right now.

Malone is so overrated. Pens fans wanted him gone after 06-07, and now he's due for a $4M+ plus payday. If he puts up 50 points with Malkin and Crosby, how many will he put up without them? He's a very streaky and inconsistent player, as his effort tends to really waver. The Devils need to go after top line talent, not more 2nd and 3rd line depth. Signing Malone would be extremely extraneous IMO.

Sundin might be 37, but he's still a top 10 center in this league. On a one or two year deal I'd take him in a heartbeat. He's exactly what the Devils need right now.

Devilsfanatic

05-19-2008, 01:29 AM

Malone is useless, always has been. Don't want him on this team.

We need to get Hossa and Campbell

Darius Dangleaitis

05-19-2008, 01:35 AM

Malone is useless, always has been. Don't want him on this team.

We need to get Hossa and Campbell

How much are we going to have at our disposal? I'm guessing that would cost 13M at the very least.

ALine9900

05-19-2008, 01:47 AM

Malone is useless, always has been. Don't want him on this team.

We need to get Hossa and Campbell

No way, Hossa alone would be huge. I don't see us getting either.

britdevil

05-19-2008, 04:24 AM

Jarret Stoll. He is a poor mans Arnott. Who knows, after a season or two with the Devils, he could make just as big a splash as Jason did. Dont forget, the Oilers practically gave us Arnott.

Elias - Stoll - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Bergfors
Pandolfo - Madden - Langenbrunner
Zubrus - Vrana - Clarkson

Orpik - Martin
White - Hainsey/Puck-mover/Greene?
Salvador - Oduya

Marty
Weekes

I really like that first line, maybe you can swap Bergfors and Gionta around, but that deffinately gives us scoring depth. The 3rd line is a sure thing, and im hoping Pando, Madden and Langs can have a really great season. I would also explore the possibility of trading for Kotalik, I would even give them Clarkson. Imagine a 4th line of Zubrus - Vrana - Kotalik, this wouldnt even be a 4th line. Great, if not very good depth.

The defense is a sticking point, is that core good enough? I think Martin is on the verge of his breakout (great offensive showing at the WHC) and Oduya would look really good as a 3rd pairing defenseman. Add a seconday puckmover like Hainsey who can out up 30 points and that would provide quality offense for the forward units. Also the 3 stay-at-homers would punish opposing forwards in front of the net. Greene is too young to move now, and this year may just be a blip on his career. Afterall he wasnt that bad. Were just used to so much better here in NJ.

Das Uber

05-19-2008, 07:59 AM

I had a dream last night that on draft day we traded Gio, Zajac, and a 2nd for Rick Nash. We also hired the coach of the London Knights as an assistant...which is weird because I don't even know who he is. It had something to do with him and Lou having a shared hatred for Romano.

Richer's Ghost

05-19-2008, 08:30 AM

britdevil

05-19-2008, 08:33 AM

:laugh:

Stay away from the greasy foods before going to bed... heartburn makes for some strange dreams... ;)

Had cheese before bed a few years ago. I can safely say I havent since.

Some scary **** happened that night.

Das Uber

05-19-2008, 11:21 AM

Had cheese before bed a few years ago. I can safely say I havent since.

Some scary **** happened that night.

Oh I here ya bro. I had some fresh Wisconsin cheese curds one night...delicious but scary.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-19-2008, 12:38 PM

Muttley

05-19-2008, 01:00 PM

Elias was close to a PPG at center. This is where he should stay. Citing 5 games as evidence that he can return to his sniper-esque ways is foolish. I'm not sure why you would want to mess with something that worked.

Instead, let's keep Parise - Elias - someone, and get a real second line center.

Which is a reason why that if the Devils don't get a Number 1 Center, I wouldn't mind at all keeping Elias there.

As somebody mentioned before, he was nearly a PPG as a Center. And I think playing with Parise will give him more confidence to shoot a bit more as well.

As I keep trying to point out, we don't need Elias to be a PPG player at Center. It stifles his goal scoring talent. We need him to be a PPG winger and score more than 30 goals.

And even though he was a PPG player, his line was really not a factor offensively, especially down the stretch.

We have players who score garbage goals, which is O.K. because that's their roll.

But we need people to put the puck in the net and Patrik Elias is a natural goal scorer.

We don't need a Marian Hossa. Patrik Elias can put up Hossa numbers again with a real #1 Center.

We are wasting his talent by making him a playmaker.

Richer's Ghost

05-19-2008, 01:05 PM

If we get him this spells either a Zajac deal or not re-signing Pandolfo...

Currently getting $1.6 M a year, I could see signing the 35 year old to a 2 year deal at $2 M per. Left winger... not bad IMO...

Give me Sakic instead... :sarcasm:

Muttley

05-19-2008, 01:08 PM

Sundin is 37 or 38 and his best days are behind him. Also I don't really think he's the best fit out there for the team, right now.

Huh?

He just came off a 32 goal/46 assist season.

He has 90 goals since the lockout and 238 points.

Mr Bojanglez

05-19-2008, 01:08 PM

Eklund has Brunette to us as an e3.

Not trusting Eklund whatsoever, but I'm just wondering what you guys would think of Brunette? He hasn't been mentioned much here as a possibility and I for one like the idea.

He is an underrated, appropriately payed LW. He plays at both ends of the rink, but not really too impressive. He's actually a perfect Devil... he'd be on our number 1 line here... but would likely be a 2nd line player on most teams

Devilswede

05-19-2008, 01:15 PM

fortheloveof666

05-19-2008, 01:16 PM

Darius Dangleaitis

05-19-2008, 01:16 PM

Huh?

He just came off a 32 goal/46 assist season.

He has 90 goals since the lockout and 238 points.

Exactly. Size and power like Sundin has doesn't just disappear.

Muttley

05-19-2008, 01:21 PM

He is an underrated, appropriately payed LW. He plays at both ends of the rink, but not really too impressive. He's actually a perfect Devil... he'd be on our number 1 line here... but would likely be a 2nd line player on most teams

He can be had for the cheap, but he's kind of soft for his size and doesn't really hit or engage in any physical contact whatsoever.

We need to get away from being such a soft, wimpy team.

Brunette may be a good depth move at the trade deadline, but I don't really want to see him skate away from the grind of Atlantic Divsion play.

Mr Bojanglez

05-19-2008, 01:24 PM

^^ Oh I agree. I was just describing him. He's like... a more offensively inclined Pando.

And i don't agree with Devilswede. This FA market is perfect for the Devils. Lot of above average players that are not exactly superstars commanding huge payments. Besides, after last year he HAS to do something. We had our worst offensive year in... how long? Something will be done, just a question if we like it or not.

Muttley

05-19-2008, 01:25 PM

Exactly. Size and power like Sundin has doesn't just disappear.

As much as I like hearing Sakic & Sundin mentioned, the question is if they would have enough left 3 or 4 years from now, when I feel we can seriously compete for one more Cup with the old guard of Brodeur, Gionta, Elias, Langenbrunner, etc.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-19-2008, 01:35 PM

As much as I like hearing Sakic & Sundin mentioned, the question is if they would have enough left 3 or 4 years from now, when I feel we can seriously compete for one more Cup with the old guard of Brodeur, Gionta, Elias, Langenbrunner, etc.

I wasn't suggesting we bring Sundin here...merely agreeing with the fact that he still has some left in the tank. I'd rather go with younger impact players.

I think we should trade for Havlat while his value is low.

Classic Devil

05-19-2008, 01:45 PM

As much as I like hearing Sakic & Sundin mentioned, the question is if they would have enough left 3 or 4 years from now, when I feel we can seriously compete for one more Cup with the old guard of Brodeur, Gionta, Elias, Langenbrunner, etc.
Depending on who we bring in on defense, I think we can make a serious cup run two years from now. Maybe, maybe next season if Lou pulls of a miracle and finds a #1 defenseman and a #1 centerman.

MissionHockey

05-19-2008, 02:14 PM

As I keep trying to point out, we don't need Elias to be a PPG player at Center. It stifles his goal scoring talent. We need him to be a PPG winger and score more than 30 goals.

And even though he was a PPG player, his line was really not a factor offensively, especially down the stretch.

We have players who score garbage goals, which is O.K. because that's their roll.

But we need people to put the puck in the net and Patrik Elias is a natural goal scorer.

We don't need a Marian Hossa. Patrik Elias can put up Hossa numbers again with a real #1 Center.

We are wasting his talent by making him a playmaker.

I don't understand why you think playing center stifles his goal scoring instincts. If anything, him being at center gets him more involved with the play and he touches the puck more than anybody else on his line. If anything I would think that would increases his goal production.

Not that I don't mind moving Patrik back to wing if we get a suitable replacement, but I think our first and foremost concern is our defense. As we all know Paul Martin is our number 1 defenseman, and I would say he is a good #3 on most other good teams. The cyclops (Colin White) is our #2 defenseman! We need a serious upgrade at the blueline before this team moves anywhere.

Classic Devil

05-19-2008, 02:47 PM

Colin Whites Eye

05-19-2008, 02:54 PM

paul martin is a top pairing DMan on probably 75-80% of teams...

The Jersey Devil

05-19-2008, 03:12 PM

paul martin is a top pairing DMan on probably 75-80% of teams...

Def, next year he will easily replace Rafalski. He was only settling in this year.

Muttley

05-19-2008, 03:17 PM

I wasn't suggesting we bring Sundin here...merely agreeing with the fact that he still has some left in the tank. I'd rather go with younger impact players.

I think we should trade for Havlat while his value is low.

Sure, everyone wants younger impact players, especially 29 other teams not named the Pittsburgh Penguins.

I would love to build around Jordan Staal or Evgeni Malkin. Wouldn't you?

But the chances of being able to land a Sundin for a couple of season will be much better than prying those other 2 loose.

Colin Whites Eye

05-19-2008, 03:56 PM

pittsburgh isnt going to be able to keep all those young players so they need to win now

Richer's Ghost

05-19-2008, 09:16 PM

:cough cough:

Still haven't seen anything about Langkow signing with Calgary and it's been 2 weeks since those "in final talks and should be inked soon" reports...

Ocho Siete

05-19-2008, 09:16 PM

Sergei Fedorov is still awesome. He could be our 2 or 3 rd line center.

Classic Devil

05-19-2008, 09:22 PM

Sergei Fedorov is still awesome. He could be our 2 or 3 rd line center.
I can't see Fedorov coming here. We did the whole Igor Larionov thing and that was a disaster, and we're not exactly a haven for Russian players at the moment.

MissionHockey

05-19-2008, 09:27 PM

I can't see Fedorov coming here. We did the whole Igor Larionov thing and that was a disaster, and we're not exactly a haven for Russian players at the moment.

I agree, I wouldn't want Lamoriello to make an investment on a player on his last legs.

Anssi is epic

05-19-2008, 09:34 PM

Knowing Lou I have a feeling he will do absolutely nothing to improve this team via free agency this summer. Maybe through a trade, but I have a hard time seeing him trying to overbid others to get a player. He's learned from his mistakes and I think he'll stay away from free agents this time around. It's just a feeling I have.

Trades are more realistic IMO.

I agree unfortunately, aside from Lou not outbidding teams, new jersey has never been a preferred destination for a free agent, unless they've been here before.

Classic Devil

05-19-2008, 10:16 PM

I agree, I wouldn't want Lamoriello to make an investment on a player on his last legs.
This I disagree with. Lou has made investments in the past in top-flight players nearing the ends of their careers on multiple occasions, and they have been largely successful. Doug Gilmour, Peter Stastny, Neal Broten, etc. It depends on the player.

Elias to Parise

05-19-2008, 10:27 PM

Malone is so overrated. Pens fans wanted him gone after 06-07, and now he's due for a $4M+ plus payday. If he puts up 50 points with Malkin and Crosby, how many will he put up without them? He's a very streaky and inconsistent player, as his effort tends to really waver. The Devils need to go after top line talent, not more 2nd and 3rd line depth. Signing Malone would be extremely extraneous IMO.

Sundin might be 37, but he's still a top 10 center in this league. On a one or two year deal I'd take him in a heartbeat. He's exactly what the Devils need right now.

Thank you for saying everything I've been wanting to say about Malone. It's amazing how much better Malkin and Crosby can make an average second line(second line might be too generous) player look. If we sign him he wouldn't even match Zubrus's numbers from this year and not be nearly as effective as Zubrus is in other facets of the game.

Jason MacIsaac

05-19-2008, 10:37 PM

I don't understand why you think playing center stifles his goal scoring instincts. If anything, him being at center gets him more involved with the play and he touches the puck more than anybody else on his line. If anything I would think that would increases his goal production.

Not that I don't mind moving Patrik back to wing if we get a suitable replacement, but I think our first and foremost concern is our defense. As we all know Paul Martin is our number 1 defenseman, and I would say he is a good #3 on most other good teams. The cyclops (Colin White) is our #2 defenseman! We need a serious upgrade at the blueline before this team moves anywhere.

Two parts of this post are way off. Yes playing at center does affect your scoring. Your main objective is to control the puck in the offensive zone and make your linemates better. Playing center you are similar to a point guard in basketball. You control the tempo and react based on it. More often a good centermen will draw the defense and leave someone else open.

You think Paul Martin is a #3 on most teams in the NHL? Have you lost your mind or are you thinking back when Hollweg gave him a concussion. Paul Martin is extremely underated and a top 25 defensmen in the league. He is basicly a less hyped version of Jay Bouwmeester or Wade Redden. He eats minutes, carries the puck out of trouble, doesn't cough the puck up and as we seen with good linemates and some freedom can quarterback a powerplay. There is a reason Lou is giving him some pretty good change for a a RFA.

dzanimal16

05-19-2008, 10:53 PM

anyone else not as high on prospal as they were before watching him completely disappear in the ECF????

Darius Dangleaitis

05-19-2008, 11:04 PM

Sure, everyone wants younger impact players, especially 29 other teams not named the Pittsburgh Penguins.

I would love to build around Jordan Staal or Evgeni Malkin. Wouldn't you?

But the chances of being able to land a Sundin for a couple of season will be much better than prying those other 2 loose.

Oh alright. I misunderstood what you said at first. Yeah, I agree. Older players might be the best possible route at this time.

åboriginal

05-19-2008, 11:04 PM

anyone else not as high on prospal as they were before watching him completely disappear in the ECF????

i was never particularly high on him to begin with. so i wasnt shocked when he kinda disappeared when they def coulda used him to come back.

Classic Devil

05-20-2008, 12:40 AM

i was never particularly high on him to begin with. so i wasnt shocked when he kinda disappeared when they def coulda used him to come back.
Vinny Prospal hasn't been able to produce without a superstar on his line for years now.

Elite Swede

05-20-2008, 12:43 AM

Nobody wants Vyborny or Vrbata for Elias. Seems they could be relatively cheap but with some Czech reward. Or it could be another Jan Hrdina failed experiment.

Jason MacIsaac

05-20-2008, 12:55 AM

Nobody wants Vyborny or Vrbata for Elias. Seems they could be relatively cheap but with some Czech reward. Or it could be another Jan Hrdina failed experiment.
Vrbata will comand quite the salary and lou isn't the type to sign a forward just to please another. We would have both Niedermayer's :/

Devilsfanatic

05-20-2008, 12:57 AM

Vrbata will comand quite the salary and lou isn't the type to sign a forward just to please another. We would have both Niedermayer's :/

Hey he tried to have both Niedermayers. If he feels it is worth it, he'll do it.

guyincognito

05-20-2008, 12:57 AM

Nobody wants Vyborny or Vrbata for Elias. Seems they could be relatively cheap but with some Czech reward. Or it could be another Jan Hrdina failed experiment.

Isn't Vyborny gone, or am I confusing him with someone else? I think he left the NHL and is signed. Of course, that doesn't mean anything anymore, but I don't think he's coming back.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-20-2008, 01:01 AM

Nobody wants Vyborny or Vrbata for Elias. Seems they could be relatively cheap but with some Czech reward. Or it could be another Jan Hrdina failed experiment.

Vrbata is a step up from Hrdina though, and much younger.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-20-2008, 01:01 AM

Isn't Vyborny gone, or am I confusing him with someone else? I think he left the NHL and is signed. Of course, that doesn't mean anything anymore, but I don't think he's coming back.

Vyborny had an AWFUL season with Columbus this year. Put up 65 and 65 points then sunk to 26 this year with only 7 goals. But I don't know the status of him.

Plus, he's small and I'd rather have a big guy.

Elite Swede

05-20-2008, 01:10 AM

Vyborny had an AWFUL season with Columbus this year. Put up 65 and 65 points then sunk to 26 this year with only 7 goals. But I don't know the status of him.

Plus, he's small and I'd rather have a big guy.

I think he was hurt.

Clarkson Falls Down

05-20-2008, 01:14 AM

I think he was hurt.

Correct. Did miss 16 games. But still a very down year.

Elite Swede

05-20-2008, 01:24 AM

Correct. Did miss 16 games. But still a very down year.

agree

Classic Devil

05-20-2008, 03:01 AM

Vyborny signed with a team in Europe, I believe. He's gone. As for Vrbata, I think you guys are underestimating the salary he's going to demand.

Devs

05-20-2008, 03:47 AM

Vrbata will comand quite the salary and lou isn't the type to sign a forward just to please another. We would have both Niedermayer's :/

We tried. We first tried to get him from Calgary at the deadline, but Anaheim offered a better deal (JF Damphousse and Commodore). We then tried to get him from Anaheim, but Burke knew why we wanted him, and any deal to get him over here would require Gomez to go in the other direction.

Our best chance to get him was when he first started in Florida, but that was during the Cup years, and we had no room for him on the roster. Sure, we could've sent down someone like Rheamue, but then the lack of French-Canadians on the team would've reached a critical point, and as we all know, we NEED to have another French-Canadian as a regular to win the Cup :nod:. The deal Florida got to send him to Calgary was good for them as well, since R. Nieds and a 2nd netted them V. Bure and Wiemer.

When I go back in time, I'll make sure we trade our 1st from 93 (10th overall - Denis Pederson) and our 1st from 94 (25th overall- Vadim Sharifijanov) for Florida's 5th overall pick in 93 for the other Niedermayer, deal?

britdevil

05-20-2008, 07:35 AM

Was never interested in Prospal. Guy is in a contract year.

Im fed up of putting up proposals, but I want to see Elias and Parise split up, Elias moved back to wing and for Zajac to be given a fair shake.

If we end up with the Parise and Elias on the same line, and Zajac getting 4th line minutes next season, then I will most likely end up turning into a mini-bense27.

Niedermayer21

05-20-2008, 07:42 AM

If we want to win, we need to spend some money. I think Marian Hossa will stay with Pittsburgh, whether they win the Cup or not. Who wouldn't want to play with Sid and Malkin? If he likes the area, he will stay.

Radim Vrbata will not be cheap, but he would be a good sign. He can play the left or right side, with Elias in the middle and Zubrus on whichever wing Vrbata is not playing. Let Zubrus use his big body to dig for the puck along the boards and let's hope Elias and Vrbata have some chemistry and can shoot that puck and score that goal. ;)

Projected lineup:

Zubrus--Elias--Vrbata
Parise--Zajac--Langenbrunner
Pandolfo--Madden--Gilbert Brule
Rupp--Manny Malhotra--Clarkson
Petr Vrana

Martin--Brad Stuart
Sergei Zubov--Colin White
Mike Mottau (Eventually Matt Corrente)--Oduya
Andy Greene and Sheldon Brookbank

Marty
Weekes

We sign Vrbata, Stuart, Pando, Mottau, and Brookbank.

Trade Gio and Rod Pelley to Columbus for Gilbert Brule and Manny Malhotra.

By trading Gio, we free up some money to sign Vrbata. Then the big sign will be Stuart or another top two defenseman like Wade Redden.

Trade Vish to Dallas for Sergei Zubov. (Maybe Lou can re-work Zubov's salary so we can save a little money. Otherwise, for a year or two, I can live with Sergei's salary if he can help our younger defenseman and QB our PP).

Put Brule with Madden and Pando and tell him to play defense so there is no pressure to score. Then we hope and pray like crazy that he will score! :D

That's the best I have for now. If you can improve upon it, please do so. Thanks!

britdevil

05-20-2008, 07:44 AM

Neids <3's Gilbert Brule. ;)

Devilswede

05-20-2008, 07:49 AM

Trade Vish to Dallas for Sergei Zubov.

That's the best I have for now. If you can improve upon it, please do so. Thanks!

Sorry, I couldn't take that seriously when I saw that. Trade a 7:th d-man to Dallas in exchange for one of the best defensemen in the NHL? How the heck would that work? Please tell me...

If Zubov hadn't been injured this year he would've been a Norris Trophy candidate...and you think we could get him in exchange for Vishnevski(!)? :)

Niedermayer21

05-20-2008, 07:54 AM

Sorry, I couldn't take that seriously when I saw that. Trade a 7:th d-man to Dallas in exchange for one of the best defensemen in the NHL? How the heck would that work? Please tell me...

If Zubov hadn't been injured this year he would've been a Norris Trophy candidate...and you think we could get him in exchange for Vishnevski(!)? :)

I am considering the age factor and his contract. They will get Philippe Boucher back next season, I believe, and Vish will give them a physical presence on defense that they don't have now. Norstrom is getting older and they could use another physical d-man. Also, the emergence of Matty Niskanen may make Zubov expendable. Hey, it is wishful thinking. Just hoping Dallas will go for it after losing to Detroit.

Niedermayer21

05-20-2008, 07:59 AM

Neids <3's Gilbert Brule. ;)

Please elaborate. Thanks! :yo:

britdevil

05-20-2008, 08:03 AM

Please elaborate. Thanks! :yo:

:laugh:

I dont need too. Gilberts a solid player, but has proved to be nothing special at all. If he cant produce as a Jacket, I really doubt he will as a Devil.

But hey, if Sutter can prove me wrong.....

Mr Bojanglez

05-20-2008, 08:37 AM

i was never particularly high on him to begin with. so i wasnt shocked when he kinda disappeared when they def coulda used him to come back.

Yea, I don't want him. By the way, I learned something in Finish today... Kuse muuntajaan :naughty:

Richer's Ghost

05-20-2008, 08:43 AM

I went to 2 Blue Jacket games this year and watched Brule and Langs close as they were topics of trade here on HF and I gotta say I wasn't that impressed with either of them to be honest. I was impressed that Langs still could skate somewhat fast, but other than that nothing really stood out about their play... but then again they are playing for Columbus and that is something to factor in too I suppose.

I'm sticking to my targets;
Langkow, Rolston, Hainsey as within the realm of reason and budget from Lou's perspective. (Assuming Corrente is making the club next year).

Phantoms24

05-20-2008, 08:53 AM

Elias Sundin Bergfors
Parise Vrana Gionta
Pandolfo Madden Langenbrunner
Zubrus Zajac Clarkson

Liles Martin
White Salvador
Oduya Montador
Vishnevski Mottau

Brodeur
Weekes

Drewr15

05-20-2008, 09:41 AM

I think Sundin would be a great fit for the Devils for the next couple of seasons. I don't know if I would do anything longer. I really don't see any long term number one center solutions ou there right now that can be had easily but Sundin can easily center Elias and Gio and get that line going again and help mentor Zajac into becoming the center we all hope he can be. Add Sundin and two solid defenseman and I think this team could be in a position at the trade deadline next season to add that scoring winger to go for it.

Overtime98

05-20-2008, 10:04 AM

Jiri Bicek

05-20-2008, 10:34 AM

LOL.... I wouldnt be surprised to see little change in next season. Why would Lou change his ways now? He hasnt yet... Iwouldnt expect huge FA additions until Lou steps down and leaves the team. .

I could see him shaking things up for 3 reasons:

- Early playoff exits the past couple years

- The loss to the Rangers (which Lou or Brodeur prob didn't take lightly)

- Marty having x-number of years left and with Marty is our best time to win

I had a weird feeling after the Rags loss that it could be a blessing in disguise (a wake up call).. As much as it made me sick

Overtime98

05-20-2008, 10:40 AM

I could see him shaking things up for 3 reasons:

- Early playoff exits the past couple years

- The loss to the Rangers (which Lou or Brodeur prob didn't take lightly)

- Marty having x-number of years left and with Marty is our best time to win

I had a weird feeling after the Rags loss that it could be a blessing in disguise (a wake up call).. As much as it made me sick

I hope you are right. and I agree with you, but its hard to imagine Lou making big changes and signing big FA to improve this team after last year, even though we definitly need some changes. Lets hope for the best.

Classic Devil

05-20-2008, 10:56 AM

LOL.... I wouldnt be surprised to see little change in next season. Why would Lou change his ways now? He hasnt yet... Iwouldnt expect huge FA additions until Lou steps down and leaves the team.

I wish the Devils would once aquire a player like brad richards or Hossa. I mean Dallas and Pittsburgh, had no reason to get these players yet they went out and improved their team. unfortunately we have to wait till Lou is gone to see these kind of changes, imo.
Alexander Mogilny? Doug Gilmour? It's not a matter of not wanting these players, it's a question of not having anywhere near the kind of assets we need for that kind of major acquisition.

And, Niedermayer27, if you tried offering Vish for Zubov, you'd get laughed out of the NHL.

Drewr15

05-20-2008, 10:58 AM

I could see him shaking things up for 3 reasons:

- Early playoff exits the past couple years

- The loss to the Rangers (which Lou or Brodeur prob didn't take lightly)

- Marty having x-number of years left and with Marty is our best time to win

I had a weird feeling after the Rags loss that it could be a blessing in disguise (a wake up call).. As much as it made me sick

I am praying you are right. I feel like we should be going for it in the Marty window as well. Lou built this team from not much before, he can do so again, I really have no problem parting with youth and picks to win something while Marty is still here.

Brooklyndevil

05-20-2008, 02:56 PM

Game Breaker

05-21-2008, 12:13 AM

People, please stop with this Carter riff-raff. No offer sheet will ever be given by Lou.

/carter riff-raff

Killa Cam Janssen

05-21-2008, 12:23 AM

One, Conte and company would have to have a terrific 08 draft. Tender Jeff Carter an offer sheet for what I understand would be $5.2 mil per that will cost a first, second and third in 09.

Trade Gionta for a 09 pick.

Go after Stuart, if not, Orpik. Resign Salvador. Sign Rolston for two years. He would also play point on the powerplay.

Elias-Carter-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Rolston
Zubrus-Madden-Langenbrunner
Pelley-Vrana/Rupp-Clarkson

Martin
Stuart/Orpik
White
Oduya
Salvador
Corrente
Vishy

I'm going to steal this part of your idea just for fun (I know it's never gonna happern) because its actually a good idea, although one Lou would never do. Sign Carter, trade Gio (maybe at the deadline when his value is high) to get the 1st or 2nd round pick for 09 back. Re-sign Sal, sign Roszival.

Elias-Carter-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Langs
Pando-Madden-Zubrus
Brylin-Pelley/Vrana-Clarkson
Rupp

Martin-Oduya
Roszival-White
Sal-Greene
Vish

Wow theres a dream team right there, assuming Bergfors can pull his weight.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-21-2008, 12:23 AM

I'm not expecting anything big from Lou. He'll sign guys like Brunette and Hainsey and go from there. Those two are fine and might fit nicely, but I'm not expecting Lou to go after Hossa or Campbell or anything like that. His post-lockout ways have given us no reason to think otherwise.

For the record, I hope he proves me wrong.

Edit: I read somewhere that Langkow has been signed or agreed to terms or something and the Flames are waiting until after the playoffs to announce it. So much for that cause I think he would've been just what we needed, or at least a significant step in the right direction.

Has Jokinen been signed yet, and if not, does he show any intentions of leaving? That's the guy I wanted at the deadline most besides Hossa.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-21-2008, 12:28 AM

I'm going to steal this part of your idea just for fun (I know it's never gonna happern) because its actually a good idea, although one Lou would never do. Sign Carter, trade Gio (maybe at the deadline when his value is high) to get the 1st or 2nd round pick for 09 back. Re-sign Sal, sign Roszival.

Elias-Carter-Bergfors
Parise-Zajac-Langs
Pando-Madden-Zubrus
Brylin-Pelley/Vrana-Clarkson
Rupp

Martin-Oduya
Roszival-White
Sal-Greene
Vish

Wow theres a dream team right there, assuming Bergfors can pull his weight.

Wouldn't call that a dream team...Hossa and Campbell somehow would be a dream team.

Jersey Fresh

05-21-2008, 12:28 AM

I'm not expecting anything big from Lou. He'll sign guys like Brunette and Hainsey and go from there. Those two are fine and might fit nicely, but I'm not expecting Lou to go after Hossa or Campbell or anything like that. His post-lockout ways have given us no reason to think otherwise.

For the record, I hope he proves me wrong.

I agree with this. Unfortunately, we're not in a position where we can produce players within our own system that would have the impact needed to really turn the team around. I hope Lou realizes that it is going to take a couple ballsy moves (and admittedly we may not have the assets necessary) to make this team into a legitimate cup contender before Marty retires.

Let's hope Lou makes it happen.

Killa Cam Janssen

05-21-2008, 12:40 AM

Wouldn't call that a dream team...Hossa and Campbell somehow would be a dream team.

True, I just love the thought of Carter in NJ and that makes us strong down the middle.

By the way, some people seem to think that loss to the Rangers is going to make Lou active this summer. Im just curious because I cant recall off the top of my head, did Lou do anything in the summer of 97 or during the 97-98 season after the rangers knocked us out in 5. I hope so, it would give me at least a little hope.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-21-2008, 01:49 AM

I agree with this. Unfortunately, we're not in a position where we can produce players within our own system that would have the impact needed to really turn the team around. I hope Lou realizes that it is going to take a couple ballsy moves (and admittedly we may not have the assets necessary) to make this team into a legitimate cup contender before Marty retires.

Let's hope Lou makes it happen.

I think Zajac will have a bounce-back season. That combined with Bergfors (who could realistically put up 40 points on a legit line), and hopefully one or two offensive additions could make us into a much more efficient team up front. I would like to see Salvador back at a reasonable price, and if Corrente makes the team, that will add some punch to the back end.

Parise-Elias-Bergfors
Brunette/Vermette-Zajac-Gionta
Pandolfo-Madden-Langenbrunner
Zubrus-Rupp-Clarkson

Oduya-Martin
Corrente-Salvador
White-Greene

Weekes
Brodeur

A step in the right direction, given the cards we've been dealt.

Mike Jones

05-21-2008, 07:56 AM

...trade Gio (maybe at the deadline when his value is high) to get the 1st or 2nd round pick for 09 back.

A little clarification please: I thought the Devils have their 2009 1st and 2nd round draft picks. Did Lou pull a Junior Ferguson and trade them for a backup goalie and a 4th liner?

britdevil

05-21-2008, 08:35 AM

A little clarification please: I thought the Devils have their 2009 1st and 2nd round draft picks. Did Lou pull a Junior Ferguson and trade them for a backup goalie and a 4th liner?

As far as I know, the Devils have all their 2009 picks intact. :help:

DevilsFan38

05-21-2008, 08:45 AM

A little clarification please: I thought the Devils have their 2009 1st and 2nd round draft picks. Did Lou pull a Junior Ferguson and trade them for a backup goalie and a 4th liner?
He was suggesting signing Carter to an offer sheet, and in doing so the Devils would lose draft picks as compensation (however, I think Marty and Avery will become golfing buddies before Lou gives Carter an offer sheet).

Mike Jones

05-21-2008, 08:53 AM

He was suggesting signing Carter to an offer sheet, and in doing so the Devils would lose draft picks as compensation (however, I think Marty and Avery will become golfing buddies before Lou gives Carter an offer sheet).

Thank you for this. Now it makes sense.

Now hopefully my morning coffee will kick in and everything else will fall into place...

Niedermayer21

05-21-2008, 09:21 AM

And, Niedermayer27, if you tried offering Vish for Zubov, you'd get laughed out of the NHL.

Well, thank goodness I am not in the NHL. :sarcasm:

I think Vish is a start. You have to start low and hope the other team goes for it. I am sure it will take more than Vish. I just don't know who else I would want to give up and who else Dallas would want.

But remember, Zubov is making a lot of money and he is 37 or 38 I believe. Dallas didn't win with him, so a young, physical defenseman who would come cheap may be of interest to the Stars.

I don't want to trade Gio, but Brule is younger and if he has a future, maybe it will be with the Devils. However, I would not trade Gionta until I signed either Vrbata or Hossa. BTW, if Hossa leaves Pittsburgh, he is crazy. ;)

Brooklyndevil

05-21-2008, 09:22 AM

He was suggesting signing Carter to an offer sheet, and in doing so the Devils would lose draft picks as compensation (however, I think Marty and Avery will become golfing buddies before Lou gives Carter an offer sheet).

Yea....You're probably right. And it seems like the Flyers will most likely re-sign Carter and probably let Umberger go. They also won't resign Smith and may buy-out Hatcher, but that will leave them thin on the blue-line. They may have to move some of their forwards for defense, but they have a couple of rookies that may be ready to make the team.

dzanimal16

05-21-2008, 09:50 PM

eklund has the devils interested in prospal :sarcasm:

Prospal to NJ (e3)
Entering the playoffs I was firmly of the belief that Prospal needed to be kept. Vinny played a huge role in not only re-vitalizing Briere's game but actually propelling Philly into the playoffs. Once in the playoffs however Prospal's game did fall off a bit. I believe the Flyers felt so as well. Vinny is a great player still however and should be regarded as one of the top UFA's. I keep hearing the NJ Devils name being brought up. I have also heard other teams as well, but none to the point of an e-rating as of yet.

take it for what its worth........

Devils Pride 26

05-21-2008, 09:58 PM

eklund has the devils interested in prospal :sarcasm:

take it for what its worth........

no no no. Very overrated.

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-21-2008, 10:01 PM

Classic Devil

05-21-2008, 10:10 PM

I don't think Propsal is really overrated. He's a solid complimentary player, capable of 60-70 points. However, Prospal's late season heroics will boost his asking price, as he will garner in the neighborhood of $4M long-term. Not worth it in the end.
Solid only in a complementary role. Remove Prospal from playing alongside high-class star forwards, and his production will falter. He's a 50 point player on NJ, and that's not something we need. We have enough 50 point players as it is.

Devils Pride 26

05-21-2008, 10:15 PM

Solid only in a complementary role. Remove Prospal from playing alongside high-class star forwards, and his production will falter. He's a 50 point player on NJ, and that's not something we need. We have enough 50 point players as it is.

Exactly. That's what happens when you play with st. louis and Lecavs.

guyincognito

05-21-2008, 10:15 PM

Solid only in a complementary role. Remove Prospal from playing alongside high-class star forwards, and his production will falter. He's a 50 point player on NJ, and that's not something we need. We have enough 50 point players as it is.

Torts did him a gigantic favor and made him alot of money. That situation will be really hard to replicate.

guyincognito

05-21-2008, 10:16 PM

Exactly. That's what happens when you play with st. louis and Lecavs.

And Brad Richards played with Scrub Force.

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-22-2008, 12:59 AM

Devils9789

05-22-2008, 01:01 AM

Attributing Prospal's success to Lecavalier and St. Louis is probably a bit misguided. He had more points than either of them in 02-03 and 05-06. He is capable of creating his own offense, and is not simply a leech. He is a good second line forward capable of 60 points almost anywhere. However, he will price himself to $4-$5M long-term.

I wonder if Cory Stillman will go a bit unheralded this off-season. He has put up some serious numbers since 03-04 and does work on the PP. I would not mind signing him to a 3yr deal in the range of $3.5M per season, however he will probably get more.

Don't get me wrong, Stillman is good, but at his age at $3.5 is not worth it IMO.

Darius Dangleaitis

05-22-2008, 01:05 AM

Attributing Prospal's success to Lecavalier and St. Louis is probably a bit misguided. He had more points than either of them in 02-03 and 05-06. He is capable of creating his own offense, and is not simply a leech. He is a good second line forward capable of 60 points almost anywhere. However, he will price himself to $4-$5M long-term.

I wonder if Cory Stillman will go a bit unheralded this off-season. He has put up some serious numbers since 03-04 and does work on the PP. I would not mind signing him to a 3yr deal in the range of $3.5M per season, however he will probably get more.

I'd rather sign Brunette than Stillman, but either would be fine.

Feed Me A Stray Cat

05-22-2008, 01:06 AM

Don't get me wrong, Stillman is good, but at his age at $3.5 is not worth it IMO.

Really? $3.5M on a $56M cap is totally worth it for Stillman, in my opinion.

Personally I do not care much about the $ value, moreso about the term. Stillman at $4M per for two years would be a very good deal, as opposed to Stillman at $3M per for five years.

That is why I shudder when people mention Ryan Malone. He is going to net a six year contract, no doubts. Lou did a tremendous job securing financial flexibility by holding off on Gomez and Rafalski - he should not ruin that by signing a mediocre UFA to a long-term deal (we already have Zubrus). Instead, throw all the dollars and years at Hossa and/or Campbell. If that does not work out, look for bargains elsewhere (Stillman, Naslund, Morrison, etc.).

guyincognito

05-22-2008, 02:23 AM

Attributing Prospal's success to Lecavalier and St. Louis is probably a bit misguided. He had more points than either of them in 02-03 and 05-06. He is capable of creating his own offense, and is not simply a leech. He is a good second line forward capable of 60 points almost anywhere. However, he will price himself to $4-$5M long-term.

I wonder if Cory Stillman will go a bit unheralded this off-season. He has put up some serious numbers since 03-04 and does work on the PP. I would not mind signing him to a 3yr deal in the range of $3.5M per season, however he will probably get more.

I'm not really attributing it to playing with them 100%, it's just the icetime you get playing with them, plus, the team just wasn't deep. What could have he have done with Brad Richards' 5 on 5 assignment? He was in a spot to do well, and his price is going to be higher for it.