TSN: Rolston Returns to New Jersey

It's official: four-year, $20 million contract.


Just saw it on tsn.
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&l...s=topStory_nhl

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_main :bow:

Welcome home Brian!!!

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

I <3 Lou.

YES! This is awesome!:handclap: Welcome back Brian!

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

It's also on TG's page.

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2008/07/rolston-to-devi.html

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_nhl

not official yet however

4 years is a bit too long....I have no issues with the money..but the term bothers me..

I'm not sure I like the amount, or the years, but it does make the team better.

inhf24890ty234h9hf9cn390fnc042engftn923f0-23n0fn-c93rnhgfiorhjgifsdhflksdhfeiohkcbn2e9pch3r0f!!!!!!

WOOOOO!!!!

Excellent. 5 mil is great too considering this market.

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet.

I expected it to be a short term deal but I can't say I'm disappointed.

Dont worry about the term friends, there will always be a market for a player like Rolston. Very movable contract.

That said I hope he retires a Devil, absolutely love this.

Ah, one of the best moves by Lou since the lockout! I'm so happy for Rolston!:handclap:

4 years is a bit too long....I have no issues with the money..but the term bothers me..
I don't care....I think Rollie will do well here again

How much will this help the Devils awful PP? This is a great deal. :handclap:

It's official: they said something like 4 years 20 mil.

Just saw it on tsn. Will post a link when they have it.

It says he is 34 in the article... So that means he doesn't fall into the malakhov and mogilny categories. I thought i heard he was 35 for some reason.
It would be huge if he is indeed 34

=D
Glad to know Lou's not dead.

I'm not sure I like the amount, or the years, but it does make the team better.

Agree completely. We might be overpaying but we're also getting a good player.

Welcome home Brian, we've missed you. :handclap:

How much will this help the Devils awful PP? This is a great deal. :handclap:

He has a bomb. It will help.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO :handclap: Lou!!!

5 million per... just what I expected. I can't wait for the press conference!

**** YEA............. i wanted him



C or RW or LW?????????

It's confirmed and official on TSN. Damn. I wanted him for the Flames. Good signing for the Devs

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

It doesn't scream Malakohv to me unless Lou convinced him to come out of retirement. The 4 years worries me but I think it is better than the M&M's

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

I don't know, by the time Lou had signed Malakhov, he was way past his prime, whereas Rolston is coming off 3 straight 30-goal seasons, not to mention with Lemaire's defensive system

I love it. Thank you Lou. :handclap:

It says he is 34 in the article... So that means he doesn't fall into the malakhov and mogilny categories. I thought i heard he was 35 for some reason.
It would be huge if he is indeed 34
According to Wikipedia, he turned 35 on Feb 21 of this year.

Nice!

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

Rolston's coming off 3 awesome years and is actually motivated. Malakhov didn't even know if he wanted to play hockey anymore when Lou signed him back in 05.

5 million - I can deal with

4 years - stinks. Absolutely stinks. Lets see in 4 years how this deal works out.

It says he is 34 in the article... So that means he doesn't fall into the malakhov and mogilny categories. I thought i heard he was 35 for some reason.
It would be huge if he is indeed 34
The article is wrong. Rolston is 35.

It doesn't scream Malakohv to me unless Lou convinced him to come out of retirement. The 4 years worries me but I think it is better than the M&M's

Exactly. Lou wasn't pulling teeth to get Rolston here. He wants to be here and he wants to win.

Am i the only guy that doesn't like this deal? Rolston is 34 years old...you're going to give him 5 million dollars a year to do what? Be an other defensive forward? Our offense is horrible. How is signing a guy with no playmaking ability going to help this team score? The devils just paid 5 million dollars a year for a slap shot on a penatly shot. On the other hand, he is a good leader and will be a good addition for the locker room. He knows the system, which could help younger guys along the way. I just don't think he's going to help the offense much.

Pricy (and a bit scary with the 35+ clause) but HELL YEAH!

That's only 1.5 more than Jeff Finger :D

This is awsome!!!! Now get redden or hainsey :)

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

im somewhat skeptical myself, but i always liked rolston. if he can come back and pick up where he left off, then thatd be ****ing great.:yo:

Am i the only guy that doesn't like this deal? Rolston is 34 years old...you're going to give him 5 million dollars a year to do what? Be an other defensive forward? Our offense is horrible. How is signing a guy with no playmaking ability going to help this team score? The devils just paid 5 million dollars a year for a slap shot on a penatly shot. On the other hand, he is a good leader and will be a good addition for the locker room. He knows the system, which could help younger guys along the way. I just don't think he's going to help the offense much.

He's scored 30 goals in the past 30 years on the Devils of the West.

I'm not worried. I think he will be a force on offense for two more years or so, then maybe be reduced to perhaps Madden's right wing for the last two years of the deal.

I'm very pleased.

Alright. Shut it down. Hold the cap space and wait to make a trade.

Elias, Parise, Langenbrunner, Gionta, Rolston, Zajac/Bergfors Top 6.

Assuming Madden/Pando/Zubrus checks, but maybe Gionta goes down to check and they try Elias with Zubrus again?

I am glad to have Brian back with the Devils I always like him, am I happy with the terms, No. 4 years is too long at 35. Should he have gotten $5 M, yes but for 2 years only or $3.5 for 4 years. Remember he is 35 years old. Welcome back Brian.

I am extremely happy! I mean, this makes sense. We get a veteran who is still consistently putting up 30 goals a season, has a booming shot, great wheels, and a sweet name! HAHA, welcome back Brian! Now, does he take his 12 and do we give Bergfors 18? Uhh, and we thought this was the toughest part of the offseason...:sarcasm:

Gionta, Parise, Pandolfo, Bergfors, Langenbrunner, Zubrus and Rolston as Top 9 forwards. Somebody's getting moved.

Don't stay up late waiting for a d-man signing. It'll be a trade.

Besides the skepticism on the years with the contract, he's an immediate upgrade. An obvious Devils type of player.

Glad to hear it. Money isn't bad, but could have done without the 4th year, but the guy has wheels and helps us not only on wing but at the point on the pp. Thank you Lou.

Maybe we get Hainsey for cheap, but who cares. Rolston will QB our PP. Yeah.

I look at our forwards with Rolston, without Rolston, and while I'm glad to have him, I'm not really impressed.

Our defense is what we really need to improve and defense is practically impossible to improve right now with the insane contracts people are getting.

RG, quick, make an avatar of Redden or some d-man, you're 1 for 1!!!!

Elias, Parise, Gionta, Zajac, Madden, Pandolfo, Zubrus, Rolston, Langenbrunner. That is a nasty top-9.

Am i the only guy that doesn't like this deal? Rolston is 34 years old...you're going to give him 5 million dollars a year to do what? Be an other defensive forward? Our offense is horrible. How is signing a guy with no playmaking ability going to help this team score? The devils just paid 5 million dollars a year for a slap shot on a penatly shot. On the other hand, he is a good leader and will be a good addition for the locker room. He knows the system, which could help younger guys along the way. I just don't think he's going to help the offense much.

He's had more 30 goal seasons then any other player on the roster. Believe me, he'll help the offense.

He's scored 30 goals in the past 30 years on the Devils of the West.

I'm not worried. I think he will be a force on offense for two more years or so, then maybe be reduced to perhaps Madden's right wing for the last two years of the deal.

I'm very pleased.

he's getting 30 goals a year but his point production hads dropped in each of the last 3 years. he will be reduced, at his age, to langenbrunner. I just don't see how this will help the team that much.

Does he get an "A" or challenge Langenbrunner for the "C" ?

Welcome back, Rolston!

I'm expecting Lou makes a move on D (signing/trade) and then we're set because it sounds like he wants to go with some of the young guys to fill some spots.

Am i the only guy that doesn't like this deal? Rolston is 34 years old...you're going to give him 5 million dollars a year to do what? Be an other defensive forward? Our offense is horrible. How is signing a guy with no playmaking ability going to help this team score? The devils just paid 5 million dollars a year for a slap shot on a penatly shot. On the other hand, he is a good leader and will be a good addition for the locker room. He knows the system, which could help younger guys along the way. I just don't think he's going to help the offense much.

Part of his appeal is that he creates offense by himself. For example, with Boston he was their 3rd line center but scored an average of 25 goals per year when he was there. He played with guys like PJ Axelsson and Martin Lapointe and still produced. If we put him alongside say Zajac and Gionta I'm sure he'll pot 25-30 goals.

C or RW or LW?????????He's all three. :handclap:

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?I wouldn't go as far Malakohv, but that is a lot of years and a lot of money to give Rolston.

I am extremely happy! I mean, this makes sense. We get a veteran who is still consistently putting up 30 goals a season, has a booming shot, great wheels, and a sweet name! HAHA, welcome back Brian! Now, does he take his 12 and do we give Bergfors 18? Uhh, and we thought this was the toughest part of the offseason...:sarcasm:

ready to give away sarge's 18 that quickly?

Congrats on a great signing for you guys. A perfect fit; wish we'd gotten him.

How hilarious does the Malone signing look now BTW? Rolston is a far better player on both sides of the ice than Malone.

hdajslfhjhfh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!LHADLFHDALHAL!!!! !!!!!!!

parise-elias-gionta
zubrus-rolston-langs????

djfllhlgh!!!!! i ****in wanted rolston

LOL...Rolston to NJ (e4) was just posted on hockeybuzz.

Ya think?

He's all three. :handclap:

i know i just dont know where yo put him

AHHF!LHL@!!!!!!!!!!!

He's had more 30 goal seasons then any other player on the roster. Believe me, he'll help the offense.

30 goal scorers? Elias has had totals of 35, 40, 38.
Parise has had totals of 31, 32.
Brian Gionta, i don't know if you remember, had a whopping 48.
That is six 30 goal years to Rolston's 3.

Am i the only guy that doesn't like this deal? Rolston is 34 years old...you're going to give him 5 million dollars a year to do what? Be an other defensive forward? Our offense is horrible. How is signing a guy with no playmaking ability going to help this team score? The devils just paid 5 million dollars a year for a slap shot on a penatly shot. On the other hand, he is a good leader and will be a good addition for the locker room. He knows the system, which could help younger guys along the way. I just don't think he's going to help the offense much.

another defensive player? do you know who brian rolston even is?

I wouldn't go as far Malakohv, but that is a lot of years and a lot of money to give Rolston.
It's more a Mogilny signing with the added Malakhov issue of being over 35.

30 goal scorers? Elias has had totals of 35, 40, 38.
Parise has had totals of 31, 32.
Brian Gionta, i don't know if you remember, had a whopping 48.
That is six 30 goal years to Rolston's 3.

i dont think he meant combined

As I said on the Free Agent board, I really don't see why people complaining about the length, I mean for a guy his age (35), hes probably going to want to finish his career with one team instead of dealing with free agency and all that ish.

I know he's played all 3 positions, but where would you say he's most effective? C, LW, or RW?

done deal as per signing tracker

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

Not done yet.

I'm sorry, to me this screams Vladimir Malakohv. A four year deal on Rolston, who's 35?

Ugh, me too. 5 million a year is a bit high, but understandable. But 4 years for a player over 35?

I can't help but to be bothered by the term...he's 35...and in that "special" rule as we're familiar with...

Redden is out of our sights now..down to three teams, NYR is one of them..

he will help...i'm not saying he won't. i like rolston...he's good for the team, i just think they overpaid.

I look at our forwards with Rolston, without Rolston, and while I'm glad to have him, I'm not really impressed.

Our defense is what we really need to improve and defense is practically impossible to improve right now with the insane contracts people are getting.

Use the forward depth to make a trade. We have 3 months to do that now. They needed a live body to put out there on the top 2 lines to get some flexibility. Say Sundin signs with Vancouver. Now, you can try to pry someone like Bieska off them.

It's more a Mogilny signing with the added Malakhov issue of being over 35.

yeah mogilny..cause rolston is coming off hip surgery and hasnt played a year because of a lockout.

he will help...i'm not saying he won't. i like rolston...he's good for the team, i just think they overpaid.

5 million for a 60 point player is very fair considering the money being thrown out for guys the past few offseasons.

As I said before, we'll be regretting the length of the deal by the third season.

I know he's played all 3 positions, but where would you say he's most effective? C, LW, or RW?

i dont see him playing LW for us because we have

elias
parise
rupp
zubrus
rupp

that can play lw i just dont know what line to put him on

I'm very happy about this, but Rolston was one of the more likely signings for the Devs. Not to get greedy now, but we would all be happier if Lou had signed a less likely, bigger name guy we are pulling for, but I'm happy nonetheless.

It's more a Mogilny signing with the added Malakhov issue of being over 35.

No, it's not. Mogilny was a cripple and apparently Lou was the only person in the NHL that didn't notice this.

He was a very, very different player his last season in Toronto and was complaining about his hip all the time. A year off doesn't make degenerative conditions better.

It's more a Mogilny signing with the added Malakhov issue of being over 35.

Mogilny had well-known hip problems when Lou signed him. Rolston is healthy and playing very well. Still, a lot can happen in 4 years.

I'm not concerned about the term. Fact is, not every 35+ player is going to wind up on IR. On top of that, the roster as it stands is geared around Marty's contract. Only Elias and Zubrus are signed beyond '11-12 (to '12-13). We squeeze what we can out of the best players available for the next 4 years, then it's a whole new era beginning.

I want Hainsey.

Stop complaining on the price. The dude had 17 offers. It's a competitieve market. Suck it up! It Lou didn't sign anyone and saved the cash you would be complaining about Lou

he will help...i'm not saying he won't. i like rolston...he's good for the team, i just think they overpaid.

Honestly, which team hasn't overpaid for a player?

Look, guys, I'm happy about the signing. I think it was something we had to do. But the risk of a Mogilny/Malakhov issue is something we have to accept going in with this contract. All of us should be aware of that.

Lou has met 2 of the Devils 3 needs so far. They needed a stay at home dman (Salvador), a puck moving dman (?), and a top 6 forward (Rolston). I'm crossing my fingers for Redden.

i dont see him playing LW for us because we have

elias
parise
rupp
zubrus
rupp

that can play lw i just dont know what line to put him on
It looks like Elias will stay at center because I don't see Lou getting another name forward, Zubrus is a natural RW (though he can play left) and you have Rupp there twice.

How much cap space do we have left?

He's not overpaid whatsoever. Anyone that thought this would be a short term contract is nuts. This is Brian's last chance to make good money. So if we weren't going to give him the extra year someone else was. And Brian is nothing like Mogilny who was coming off a hip injury and didn't play for an entire year because of the lockout. Lou had no idea how the lockout effected Malakov either just like some other guys who has to retire. (Hull being one of them)

This was a move that had to happen if we sit on our hands over something like an extra year on a contract you guys would all *****. WE have Brodeur now so let's try an win NOW. And if Rolston is a 40 point player in 4 years so be it. But I bet these next two years he scores 30 goals and gets over 60 points.

He's all three. :handclap:He sucks on face-offs. He's worse than Elias' 45.6% (354-422) on draws.


SEASON|TEAM|FOW|FOL|FO%
2005-06|MIN|187|216|46.4
2006-07|MIN|134|161|45.4
2007-08|MIN|67|98|40.6
3-YR TOT|388|475|45.0%

I figure we're around $53.5M right now. I would imagine Lou wouldn't want to go too far past that, so I think we're looking at a trade at some point.

i dont see him playing LW for us because we have

elias
parise
rupp
zubrus
rupp

that can play lw i just dont know what line to put him on

Elias played Center for the most part.. Zubrus and Rupp interchange wings..

The only true LW we have is Parise


I see Rolston possibly playing any position on the top two.. I have a feeling he'll be moved around early to find out the best fit

Please get over his age guys. He has no major injury history, has missed 7 games in the past 3 seasons and has scored 30 goals at least in each year.

He also scores PP goals, and brings a shot we havent seen since Richer.

Rolston is going to look real good on a line with Parise, its a natural fit.

RG, quick, make an avatar of Redden or some d-man, you're 1 for 1!!!!

Dude - I'm doing good!


This roster is $53.93 Mil and leaves the lineup looking like this:
[center]
Parise (3.1) - Elias (6.0) - Gionta (4.0)
Zubrus (3.4) - Rolston (4.5) - Bergfors (0.82)
Pandolfo (2.4) - Madden (2.9) - Langenbrunner (2.8)
Rupp (0.5) - Pelley (0.6) - Clarkson (0.85)
[edit* Brylin (1.5)]


.1 away on Pando.
less than that on Clarkson
.5 off on Rolston (if he's 5.0)

Pelley should probably pan out now that Tucker is in Col.

My D-scenario isn't shaking out however with Campbell seeking so much. maybe the Zajac + ____ + picks for Bouwmeester will pan out yet.

YES! a great signing. i have been waiting for rolston's return for years!!!!!!


welcome back!!!

How much cap space do we have left?

Between $9 and $11 million, I believe.

I agree with Classic Devil. Committing 5 mil a year for 4 years for a soon to be 36 year old forward is a bad move. He's an upgrade over what you guys had, though.

The Devils draft my preferred prospect in the 1st round. Then, they sign my personal #1 choice free agent. I still live in NJ. Maybe it's time for me to become a Devils fan...

:(

Nah. Can't do it.

Rolston made so much sense for the Rangers, his cannon from the PP point would have mitigated the need for a QB defenseman. Oh well. Good signing, although the length of the deal might make it interesting down the road.

Elias played Center for the most part.. Zubrus and Rupp interchange wings..

The only true LW we have is Parise


I see Rolston possibly playing any position on the top two.. I have a feeling he'll be moved around early to find out the best fit

Parise is a natural center.

Please get over his age guys. He has no major injury history, has missed 7 games in the past 3 seasons and has scored 30 goals at least in each year.

He also scores PP goals, and brings a shot we havent seen since Richer.

Rolston is going to look real good on a line with Parise, its a natural fit.

It's definetly something to be concerned about no matter if he's slipping or not.

He's going to be 35 years old and on a 4 year deal. It's going to be concerning.

For the next two years, however, it's a solid addition, and probably won't be too bad the 3rd year either.

HOSSA:yo:

I agree with Classic Devil. Committing 5 mil a year for 4 years for a soon to be 36 year old forward is a bad move. He's an upgrade over what you guys had, though.

Yeah we probably should've just gone after Rissmiller.

I agree with Classic Devil. Committing 5 mil a year for 4 years for a soon to be 36 year old forward is a bad move. He's an upgrade over what you guys had, though.
I never said it was a bad move. It emphatically is not a bad move. It's a risky move - no matter how healthy Rolston has been (and I think, of all the players in the NHL over the age of 35, Rolston is the LEAST risky player to give this kind of contract to), there's a danger here.

We as Devils fans know this better than anyone else.

If we have around 10 mil left

It's official now, change the title.

If Rolston was a few years younger I wouldn't mind, but he is 34 years old with a 4 year $20 million dollar contract, pretty high IMO.

in 2 years when the new CBA comes in, that 35 year old rule will be no more. It actually hurts older players which hurts the NHLPA.

Look, guys, I'm happy about the signing. I think it was something we had to do. But the risk of a Mogilny/Malakhov issue is something we have to accept going in with this contract. All of us should be aware of that.

Although I agree to a certain point, keep in mind both of those guys had their own/similar issues though.

Mogilny (don't get me wrong, he's one of my favorite players, but): Hip problems, reason why he was sent down was because he was a negative presence in the locker room. Lacked motivation.

Malakhov: See Mogilny - the hips

I don't see Rolston being like anything like them.

OT: Why are Russians known for being lazy ****s?

I agree with Classic Devil. Committing 5 mil a year for 4 years for a soon to be 36 year old forward is a bad move. He's an upgrade over what you guys had, though.

Yipeeeeeeee.

Hey, at least you guys cant label Lou 'cheap' anymore. Between this contract and Zubrus', you guys should have a field day!

Any guesses on what numbers Voros and Rissmiller will be wearing?

Between $9 and $11 million, I believe.

Throw it all at Hossa!

Kidding.

But anyways... Youtube is instant gratification. This is one of the most memorable Rolston moments that I can remember from his last stint in NJ...

yM3tZsIf4Cc

Sadly, I feel that in signing Salvador and getting another winger in Rolston, Lou is now done for the summer.

If this is the case, we have barely improved and I think that Lou is putting his faith in our youth and rookies to tip the balance of us being able to get out of the 1st round of the playoffs.

But on the bright side, I'm not so sure I disagree with this strategy, especially with the kind of money that is being thrown around for 2nd tier players like Ryan Mallone, Jeff Finger Mike Commodore, not to mention the bar being raised considerably for Brian Campbell and the offer Vancouver is giving to Mats Sundin.

I guess we have to wait until the trade deadline in February to get a that true #1 Center and puck moving defenseman/PP quarterback that has eluded us for so long.

P.S. Hello people, it's 2008 and in regards to physical fitness, personal trainers, nutrition and certain "supplements" that are so prevelant in contemporary sports, there is no reason to believe that players in their mid 30's can be considered over-the-hill, especially when their skills show few signs of eroding. Brian Rolston has played his best hockey after turning 30.

I agree with Classic Devil. Committing 5 mil a year for 4 years for a soon to be 36 year old forward is a bad move. He's an upgrade over what you guys had, though.

It's not a bad move, it's a risky move. Does everyone realize that in 4 years a $5M /year contract is not going to be all that much?

If Rolston was a few years younger I wouldn't mind, but he is 34 years old with a 4 year $20 million dollar contract, pretty high IMO.

If Rolston were a few years younger the contract wouldn't be the same

I guess, unless Gionta gets dealt sometime in the near future, Rolston will be wearing #12.

I never said it was a bad move. It emphatically is not a bad move. It's a risky move - no matter how healthy Rolston has been (and I think, of all the players in the NHL over the age of 35, Rolston is the LEAST risky player to give this kind of contract to), there's a danger here.

We as Devils fans know this better than anyone else.

Very happy with the deal, but your I agree with your post above.

The risk is well worth the reward though.

Salz, the answer to the question nobody asked. If the Rangers sign Sundin to a 2 year deal, you won't hear him complaining.

Look, guys, I'm happy about the signing. I think it was something we had to do. But the risk of a Mogilny/Malakhov issue is something we have to accept going in with this contract. All of us should be aware of that.

And you need to be aware of the differences between Rolston and M 'n' M. They were both 2 years older than Rolston is now. Neither played for an entire year because of the lockout a mistake that other GM's made. Malakhov had to be talked out of retirement. Mogilny just had his 15th hip surgery. Rolston has missed a freakishly small amount of games due to injury during his career. Only 5 games in the last 6 SEASONS! The guy hasn't lost a step and he shoots the puck over 100mph.

I guess, unless Gionta gets dealt sometime in the near future, Rolston will be wearing #12.

Rolston would wear 12 even if 14 was open, I'm pretty sure. I think he wore 14 because Guerin already had 12. I might be wrong, I was pretty young.

If we have around 10 mil left

We don't, and we won't sign Hossa. You can forget signing either of the 3 bigger names left unless someone takes a discount (and who would right now with this kind of cash being tossed around?)

I would be fine with signing a guy like Hainsey or Roszival.

Sadly, I feel that in signing Salvador and getting another winger in Rolston, Lou is now done for the summer.

If this is the case, we have barely improved and I think that Lou is putting his faith in our youth and rookies to tip the balance of us being able to get out of the 1st round of the playoffs.

But on the bright side, I'm not so sure I disagree with this strategy, especially with the kind of money that is being thrown around for 2nd tier players like Ryan Mallone, Jeff Finger Mike Commodore, not to mention the bar being raised considerably for Brian Campbell and the offer Vancouver is giving to Mats Sundin.

I guess we have to wait until the trade deadline in February to get a that true #1 Center and puck moving defenseman/PP quarterback that has eluded us for so long.

We're not getting any of those things until we have the assets to do so. I'm sorry, Brian Gionta won't get us that. Parise and the hopefully improvement of our farm system would be our only hope.

LW Rolston 5.000
C Elias 6.000
RW Gionta 4.000
LW Parise 3.125
C Zajac 0.984
RW Langenbrunner 2.800
LW Pandolfo 2.500
C Madden 2.939
RW Zubrus 3.400
LW Vrana 0.850
C Rupp 0.500
RW Clarkson 0.838
C Pelley 0.600
RW Bergfors 0.818

D Martin 3.833
D White 3.000
D Vishnevski 1.800
D Salvador 2.900
D Corrente 0.850
D Oduya 0.600
D Mottau 0.763
D Greene 0.600
G Brodeur 5.200
G Weekes 0.688

TOTAL CAP 54.587

in 2 years when the new CBA comes in, that 35 year old rule will be no more. It actually hurts older players which hurts the NHLPA.

I tend to agree, as well. I know that Lou will certainly be pushing to have it removed, as well. :naughty:

Why are you guys making fun of the Rangers for signing Voros and Rissmiller? Sometimes not paying a veteran is the better route. That would be like a Rangers fan making fun of the Devils for not signing Fleury and Kamensky in 1999. I just think this is a really risky move by the Devils. The money isn't really bad, but his offensive numbers are in the decline and he'll be under contract for 4 more years. You have to expect his numbers to get worse.

His point totals the last three years have been 79, 64, 59... he might be in the 30's or 40's by the end of his contract. Your #1 need this offseason was offense. So I'm not sure this is a good deal for you guys. Voros and Rissmiller are upgrades over Orr and Hollweg, by the way.

I would be fine with signing a guy like Hainsey or Roszival.

Rozi is linked to a 4 yr/$16 mill with Rags

Salz, the answer to the question nobody asked. If the Rangers sign Sundin to a 2 year deal, you won't hear him complaining.

That and the world's worst internet troll.

http://www.caveyourtrolls.com/img3.jpg

LW Rolston 5.000
C Elias 6.000
RW Bergfors 0.818
LW Parise 3.125
C Zajac 0.984
RW Langs 2.800
LW Pandolfo 2.500
C Madden 2.939
RW Zubrus 3.400
RW Gionta 4.000
C Vrana 0.850
RW Clarkson 0.838
F Pelley 0.600
D Martin 3.833
D White 3.000
D Vish 1.800
D Salvador 2.900
D Corrente 0.850
D Oduya 0.600
D Mottau 0.763
G Brodeur 5.200
G Weekes 0.688
TOTAL CAP 53.487

Assuming Pelley is on for 0.6M

What about Rupp?

Rolston would wear 12 even if 14 was open, I'm pretty sure. I think he wore 14 because Guerin already had 12. I might be wrong, I was pretty young.

the availability of #12 swayed Brian to sign with us :laugh:

on the sabres board someone just said holik back to devs 1 year $2.5????

And you need to be aware of the differences between Rolston and M 'n' M. They were both 2 years older than Rolston is now. Neither player for an entire year because of the lockout a mistake that other GM's made. Malakhov had to be talked out of retirement. Mogilny just had his 15th hip surgery. Rolston has missed a freakishly small amount of games due to injury during his career. Only 5 games in the last 6 SEASONS! The guy hasn't lost a step and he shoots the puck over 100mph.
I'm not disagreeing with you. As I've said, Rolston is the only player in the 35+ age bracket who I'd even consider giving this contract to. But this contract is as dangerous as both Mogilny and Malakhov's contracts put together because it's twice their duration.

I have absolutely no doubt Rolston will be worth every penny for the first two years of the contract. And I think by the time we hit the last two the cap will have risen enough that even if his play drops off we can eat the contract regardless. However, as healthy and well as he's played over the last three seasons I have real trouble assuming that he will continue to stay as healthy as he has indefinitely.

With Matvichuk off the books now; think of it as more of a 3.7M/year contract for Rolston... :sarcasm:

Why are you guys making fun of the Rangers for signing Voros and Rissmiller? Sometimes not paying a veteran is the better route.

LOL. :yo:

welcome home Brian!

Why are you guys making fun of the Rangers for signing Voros and Rissmiller? Sometimes not paying a veteran is the better route. That would be like a Rangers fan making fun of the Devils for not signing Fleury and Kamensky in 1999. I just think this is a really risky move by the Devils. The money isn't really bad, but his offensive numbers are in the decline and he'll be under contract for 4 more years. You have to expect his numbers to get worse.

His point totals the last three years have been 79, 64, 59... he might be in the 30's or 40's by the end of his contract. Your #1 need this offseason was offense. So I'm not sure this is a good deal for you guys. Voros and Rissmiller are upgrades over Orr and Hollweg, by the way.
But not over Avery and Straka. And Rissmiller is arguable at best.

Why are you here, anyway?

It looks like Elias will stay at center because I don't see Lou getting another name forward, Zubrus is a natural RW (though he can play left) and you have Rupp there twice.

ooops

and way if elias plays center then we these guys will probably be our centers

c
elias
zajac
madden
rupp

lw
parise
pandolfo
zubrus
rook

rw
gionta
rolston
langs
clarkson

Why are you guys making fun of the Rangers for signing Voros and Rissmiller? Sometimes not paying a veteran is the better route. That would be like a Rangers fan making fun of the Devils for not signing Fleury and Kamensky in 1999. I just think this is a really risky move by the Devils. The money isn't really bad, but his offensive numbers are in the decline and he'll be under contract for 4 more years. You have to expect his numbers to get worse.

His point totals the last three years have been 79, 64, 59... he might be in the 30's or 40's by the end of his contract. Your #1 need this offseason was offense. So I'm not sure this is a good deal for you guys. Voros and Rissmiller are upgrades over Orr and Hollweg, by the way.

thanks for stopping by. if we have any further questions regarding the Rangers or what they think of our signing - we'll be sure to stop over on the Rangers board.

Looking at all these contracts makes me realize how much of a steal Parise's contract is.

on the sabres board someone just said holik back to devs 1 year $2.5????
.... ugh.

Forget everything else, what number would he wear?

What about Rupp?

Corrected:

LW Rolston 5.000
C Elias 6.000
RW Gionta 4.000
LW Parise 3.125
C Zajac 0.984
RW Langenbrunner 2.800
LW Pandolfo 2.500
C Madden 2.939
RW Zubrus 3.400
LW Vrana 0.850
C Rupp 0.500
RW Clarkson 0.838
C Pelley 0.600
RW Bergfors 0.818

D Martin 3.833
D White 3.000
D Vishnevski 1.800
D Salvador 2.900
D Corrente 0.850
D Oduya 0.600
D Mottau 0.763
D Greene 0.600
G Brodeur 5.200
G Weekes 0.688

TOTAL CAP 54.587

I would definitaly take Hainsey or Roszival at this point since Redden will probably get an enormous contract from someone like Campbell did.

But not over Avery and Straka. And Rissmiller is arguable at best.

Why are you here, anyway?

or Jagr

I would definitaly take Hainsey or Roszival at this point since Redden will probably get an enormous contract from someone like Campbell did.

Roszival just signed with the Rangers.

Why are you guys making fun of the Rangers for signing Voros and Rissmiller? Sometimes not paying a veteran is the better route. That would be like a Rangers fan making fun of the Devils for not signing Fleury and Kamensky in 1999. I just think this is a really risky move by the Devils. The money isn't really bad, but his offensive numbers are in the decline and he'll be under contract for 4 more years. You have to expect his numbers to get worse.

His point totals the last three years have been 79, 64, 59... he might be in the 30's or 40's by the end of his contract. Your #1 need this offseason was offense. So I'm not sure this is a good deal for you guys. Voros and Rissmiller are upgrades over Orr and Hollweg, by the way.

BLOCKED

Let say we sign hossa, we have to trade gionta to free up cap space

Okay, see ya later. Thought it was possible to have a cordial discussion with fans of another team on their board.

Okay, see ya later. Thought it was possible to have a cordial discussion with fans of another team on their board.
I think the problem is we don't really want to talk about the Rangers right now. Thanks though.

dam i think we just signed Holik:shakehead

sportsnet reported it

Is the length a concern considering he's over 35? Of course it is, even though he's as healthy a 35 year old as you could want.

But consider that the Devils have Marty signed for 4 more years and he's not getting younger. We've all said that Lou needed to make some moves to make this team better and win now, because Marty won't be around forever. Well, he's done that, and even if it's a year too long I'm thrilled because it looks like Lou is serious about making a run for the Cup.

We're not getting any of those things until we have the assets to do so. I'm sorry, Brian Gionta won't get us that. Parise and the hopefully improvement of our farm system would be our only hope.

I understand that and that is the point. Our assets are our youth and they will be showcased the first half of the season.

Whether or not it can get us what we need remains to be seen.

I didn't want to talk about the Rangers either. Your fellow Devils fans brought up our signings of Voros and Rismiller when I agreed with your assessment on Rolston. BTW, sportsnet.ca confirms Holik back to the Devs... 1 year 2.5 mil

What about Rupp?

What about Holik?

Im actually shaking a little. These guys are going to be hungry for hardware.

I think the problem is we don't really want to talk about the Rangers right now. Thanks though.

:clap: Well said.

I didn't want to talk about the Rangers either. Your fellow Devils fans brought up our signings of Voros and Rismiller when I agreed with your assessment on Rolston. BTW, sportsnet.ca confirms Holik back to the Devs... 1 year 2.5 mil

there's a thread on here about that already.

And while you were bothering us on here, perhaps you missed that your team signed Roszival to a new contract.

.... ugh.

Forget everything else, what number would he wear?

That just made my day. :laugh:

Is the length a concern considering he's over 35? Of course it is, even though he's as healthy a 35 year old as you could want.

But consider that the Devils have Marty signed for 4 more years and he's not getting younger. We've all said that Lou needed to make some moves to make this team better and win now, because Marty won't be around forever. Well, he's done that, and even if it's a year too long I'm thrilled because it looks like Lou is serious about making a run for the Cup.


Thank you!

Weren't we supposed to get a d-man?! instead we end with Bobby friggin Holik at $2.5 million? c'mon!!

Weren't we supposed to get a d-man?! instead we end with Bobby friggin Holik at $2.5 million? c'mon!!

source?

TSN has nothing about Holik yet.

VERY impressed with Lou. Not with the numbers they both signed for. A little much no? But Bobby Ho is a great pick up. 4th line center, strong on the face offs. Rolston is just plain solid. Congrats Lou.. keep it up!!!!!

I like the signing a lot it is just the 4 years is too much.

I am very happy. There really is no reason to be so negative. Its not like the guy is going to die when he turns 37-38. Look at a lot of the other players who are older and are playing at the same level...even our own goaltender! I know goal tending is different from skating, but come on, this is a great move. Lou wants to win now, and you can't blame him.

Yes! :yo::handclap:

Very Happy!!!!


12 Brian Rolston


Get a D now!

Nice. I kinda like the way our signings went till now. But where´s the D?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s93/vagel117/funny/loulams.jpg

Rolston has me scared but he still has his legs and his shot along with defense, his best assets.

Rolston - Zajac - Langenbrunner is a GREAT two-way line.

Rolston - Zajac - Langenbrunner is a GREAT two-way line.

With two pretty decent shots. Hopefully next season, one of them will find the net.:sarcasm:

Rolston - Zajac - Langenbrunner is a GREAT two-way line.

Yes...Yeeeeheeeheeeees.

I personally can't wait for the first shootout slap shot.

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


Edit: I could've easily fit these three into one post...oops haha.

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


Edit: I could've easily fit these three into one post...oops haha.

id put zubrus with holik and rupp

I'm just disappointed because I wanted to see Bergfors and Vrana in the lineup this year. These two signings, although good for the short-term, will hamper their chances of seeing action.

I'm just disappointed because I wanted to see Bergfors and Vrana in the lineup this year. These two signings, although good for the short-term, will hamper their chances of seeing action.

Holik will take up a bottom 6 spot when Vrana or Bergfors will only play on the top 6

This might HELP them in the lineup b/c of the financial figures and possibility of Gio or Zajac in a trade for D

OMG Rolston!

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/9057/12120301copiebn5sc5.jpg

Holik will take up a bottom 6 spot when Vrana or Bergfors will only play on the top 6

This might HELP them in the lineup b/c of the financial figures and possibility of Gio or Zajac in a trade for D

I hope it's Gionta. For the love of god, don't give up on Zajac yet.

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


Edit: I could've easily fit these three into one post...oops haha.

Problem: Where's Bergfors go?

The way I see this playing out from here; trade imminent for Offensive Dman. With Corrente in the lineup - that's 9 Defense. That's 2 too many.

Answer: Package 2 D-men out of; (Greene/Brookbank/Mottau/Vish) in with Gionta in a trade. Frees up 5-6M in cap space and brings the roster back to the right numbers.

After that; Sign sarge to a 2-way 3year deal for 900k/yr to be utility fill-in. He can mentor the young guys in Lowell and bounce up every now and again when needed due to injury/illness. (unless of course he hits the jackpot elsewhere).

I think we're done, and I'm going to sit on that until Lou (hopefully) proves me wrong.

Problem: Where's Bergfors go?

The way I see this playing out from here; trade imminent for Offensive Dman. With Corrente in the lineup - that's 9 Defense. That's 2 too many.

Answer: Package 2 D-men out of; (Greene/Brookbank/Mottau/Vish) in with Gionta in a trade. Frees up 5-6M in cap space and brings the roster back to the right numbers.

After that; Sign sarge to a 2-way 3year deal for 900k/yr to be utility fill-in. He can mentor the young guys in Lowell and bounce up every now and again when needed due to injury/illness. (unless of course he hits the jackpot elsewhere).

I would say move Langenbrunner down to the madden line, and drop Pandolfo down to the fourth line. Bergfors would go on the Zajac line. Obviously the guys on the 4th line would have to rotate unless someone is moved out.

I personally can't wait for the first shootout slap shot.
UtRfIJmw8A4

Damn. I really want Rolston on Broadway.

"I'm very, very excited," said Rolston, who was drafted 11th overall by the Devils in 1991 and traded to Colorado in 1999. "It's been a long day today obviously. To be going back to New Jersey, I started my career there and now I'm 35 years old going back. I couldn't be happier. My family couldn't be happier coming back."

Lamoriello said Rolston's agent, Steve Bartlett, was the first agent he called when the free agent market opened for bidding. The Devils had to wait to make sure Rolston would become an unrestricted free agent first. Minnesota traded his rights to Tampa Bay on Sunday, but he turned down to a three-year offer at $4.5 million per season to see what he could get on the open market.

"We couldn't do anything or make a phonecall until 12:01 and to say that Brian, that wasn't the first call that we made, I'd be kidding you," Lamoriello said. "Brian Rolston was the first call we made at 12:01."

The Devils beat out the Rangers and the Detroit Red Wings among 16 total teams that submitted contract offers to Rolston. A league source said the Rangers were one of the finalists, but, in the end, Rolston chose to return to New Jersey.

"There were other teams in it," Rolston said. "I would say Lou stepped up big time and that means a lot to me. I respect Lou and the way he does business...It's a class organization and there were other offers that were maybe a little bit more (money), but at the end of the day I feel that this organization is where I want to be."

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2008/07/rolston-very-ex.html

Problem: Where's Bergfors go?

The way I see this playing out from here; trade imminent for Offensive Dman. With Corrente in the lineup - that's 9 Defense. That's 2 too many.

Answer: Package 2 D-men out of; (Greene/Brookbank/Mottau/Vish) in with Gionta in a trade. Frees up 5-6M in cap space and brings the roster back to the right numbers.

After that; Sign sarge to a 2-way 3year deal for 900k/yr to be utility fill-in. He can mentor the young guys in Lowell and bounce up every now and again when needed due to injury/illness. (unless of course he hits the jackpot elsewhere).

Gionta and Vishnevski for Kubina. If needed we can throw in even another D Man or a pick like a 3rd.

Terrible. This guy for 4 years? And he's 35, we're stuck with a 5 million cap hit for 4 years. Just a disappointment, goodbye Hossa.

I'd do that deal.

Hossa's probably gonna score about 10-20 points more than Rolston. For an extra $4M? You're right, goodbye Hossa.

Hossa's probably gonna score about 10-20 points more than Rolston. For an extra $4M? You're right, goodbye Hossa.

I'd say Rolston puts up a solid 50 while Hossa gets 90+

I'd say Rolston puts up a solid 50 while Hossa gets 90+

I'd still rather get Rolston. He actually wanted to come back to NJ and turned down some higher money offers to sign with us again.

Nothing beats a player that wants to be here.

Terrible. This guy for 4 years? And he's 35, we're stuck with a 5 million cap hit for 4 years. Just a disappointment, goodbye Hossa.

What did you want Lou to do? Sit pat just to be in contention for Hossa who might get upwards of $9-$10/yr?

If he let Rolston go, quite possible to the Rangers, what would our plan be if Hossa signed elsewhere?

Terrible. This guy for 4 years? And he's 35, we're stuck with a 5 million cap hit for 4 years. Just a disappointment, goodbye Hossa.

If we get 30 Goals from Rolston the next 2 seasons and then 15 his last two of the contract it is worth the $5 mill. Big good skating team first forward with playoff experience.

Rolston has had 3 consecutive 30 goal seasons as a go to player for the more defensive oriented Wild. He is not injury prone and he understands the Devils philosophy. PLayoff experience and effective on both the PP and PK.

This is nothing short of a GREAT move by Lou. And he will fit well under Sutters system.

Hey all, just ducking my head in to say congrats, as much as the signing displeases me that is an awesome feat for Lou and company. Rolston was born to be a Dev, American kid with wheels who can play all over the ice. Best signing of the day in my opinion, and it is not even close.

If he was 33, great, but 35..c'mon, we can do better. I think Naslund would have been a better fit that Rolston. Not happy with him really, but hey that's why Lou's the GM and I'm not.

If he was 33, great, but 35..c'mon, we can do better. I think Naslund would have been a better fit that Rolston. Not happy with him really, but hey that's why Lou's the GM and I'm not.

Rolston would help the PP more than Naslund. We have enough weak perimeter players. We needed someone with a bomb.

Yes, Rolston is 35, but it's not like he's showing any signs of slowing down. He's in good shape, and he still has a rocket shot. With the way the cap is going up, that $5M will be chump change in the later years of his contract.

Yes, Rolston is 35, but it's not like he's showing any signs of slowing down. He's in good shape, and he still has a rocket shot. With the way the cap is going up, that $5M will be chump change in the later years of his contract.

The way it's going at the end of his contract cam janssen will sign a UFA deal for 5 million.

If he was 33, great, but 35..c'mon, we can do better. I think Naslund would have been a better fit that Rolston. Not happy with him really, but hey that's why Lou's the GM and I'm not.

Rolston has 15, 13 and 11 PPG's in the last 3 years. Naslund has 9 each of the last 2 and I believe like 13 3 years back.

Rolston is the better signing in terms of improving the PP.

I like this signing, I think he still has some offensive in him> he is a shooter in all meaning of the word, maybe not a pure sniper, but he does have a good shot.

Am thrilled with the offensive boost this signing will provide, with his shot, size and speed Rolston's still a very dynamic presence up front, even at 35...but must say am equally happy about the other side of Rolston's game...his defensive acumen.

Rolston's gonna fit like an old glove.

If Rolston were a few years younger the contract wouldn't be the same

Of course it wouldn't if he was a few years younger because by the end of the contract there is a chance that Rolston could still pot 30 goals. He may do it, but I don't think Rolston will still be a 30 goal scorer when he is 38 years old at the end of this contract and still getting paid $5 million/season.

Of course it wouldn't if he was a few years younger because by the end of the contract there is a chance that Rolston could still pot 30 goals. He may do it, but I don't think Rolston will still be a 30 goal scorer when he is 38 years old at the end of this contract and still getting paid $5 million/season.

If Rolston was younger, he would be getting more money and more years as well.

I can't believe people are upset by this signing. This was a terrific move with everything this guy brings to the table. Fine, maybe its a bit much, but give me a break, we aren't going to be against the wall, and we have some players on the way out through trades.

I'm loving this signing. He was the one guy I wanted besides the Hoss. I think he will be worth his pay for 2-3 years and by the fourth year no one will be worrying about his salary b/c of the cap increasing so dramatically.

The Bruins just signed Michael Ryder for 3 years, $4M per. Rolston is a steal comparatively.

If he was 33, great, but 35..c'mon, we can do better. I think Naslund would have been a better fit that Rolston. Not happy with him really, but hey that's why Lou's the GM and I'm not.

Age is not a factor with this guy - he is a specimen. Compare Naslund's numbers with him after the season and I think you'll [gladly] eat your words.

Naslund cannot play the PP on the point, doesn't double as a center, is not nearly as fast, and hasn't already proven himself to play in the Devils system. Brian has - and trust me; our PP just got 10 more goals this season thanks to him. Both in his goals and his shot which will produce huge rebounds in front.

Have faith grasshopper; there is a reason so many of us are excited to have him back. I'm a huge Sykora fan and I'd take Rolston any day of the week over Sykora.

If anyone has the NHL network. They are showing the Wild/Ducks series from last year. So if you want to see Rolston here is a chance. The guy can still fly and has a bomb. I'm excited.

Both in his goals and his shot which will produce huge rebounds in front.

That presents a good case for keeping Gionta. Getting that heavy point shot back could see his goal totals back on the rise.

I cant believe we got his insane slapshot back on our side, ****ing awesome.
And factor that in with Holik winning faceoffs and you got yourself one happy Devils fan right here.

That presents a good case for keeping Gionta. Getting that heavy point shot back could see his goal totals back on the rise.
Not if Sutter doesn't put him back in front of the net where he belongs.

That presents a good case for keeping Gionta. Getting that heavy point shot back could see his goal totals back on the rise.

Knowing Gionta is a UFA next year at $4m now; who would you rather keep - Bergfors or Gionta? Or do you keep both and pay Gio probably around $5.5M a year next year and deal Zajac?

One of these guys is leaving... there's just not room unless Zajac's going down to the 4th line and Rupp is scratched which would not make sense given Lou has constructed the perfect crash line 2.0 right now.

Honestly, if Lou was to trade Gio & co (useless grinders) for a D-man and sign an average skating defensemen with the remaining cap I couldn't be happier, except for when we crash during the 1st and 2nd rounds of the playoffs ;)

Knowing Gionta is a UFA next year at $4m now; who would you rather keep - Bergfors or Gionta? Or do you keep both and pay Gio probably around $5.5M a year next year and deal Zajac?

One of these guys is leaving... there's just not room unless Zajac's going down to the 4th line and Rupp is scratched which would not make sense given Lou has constructed the perfect crash line 2.0 right now.

Given a deal for a d-man, Gio's gone. I still can't help but think that Holik's not going to the 4th line at $2.5M though.

Honestly, if Lou was to trade Gio & co (useless grinders) for a D-man and sign an average skating defensemen with the remaining cap I couldn't be happier, except for when we crash during the 1st and 2nd rounds of the playoffs ;)

In reality, a deal would have been done already as many teams would LOVE to have Gionta on their squad.

I'd be shocked to see Gionta traded.

Given a deal for a d-man, Gio's gone. I still can't help but think that Holik's not going to the 4th line at $2.5M though.

Well if he's not - who is? Holik was 2nd/3rd line center last year - but I can't honestly see him taking the 2nd line slot at this point. 1 year deal tells me he's a 4th liner at this point. I would roll 4 lines just like we did in 95 and keep the scoring lines fresh (which is now 3 lines when you put Langenbrunner on the 3rd line healthy).

Like I said - we've got an extra forward; so I really don't think we're done yet. It's fun to make lines and speculate but I think everything will change and Lou will make a blockbuster deal for a true top 2 D-man with a trade for not 1; but 2 forwards and a 2 of our D. We have too many NHL'ers on our roster right now given Corrente/Bergfors get a shot to stay up next season... let alone Vrana and Pelley.

I'm glad though - this is a good problem to have for a change.

I just wonder if he's not being brought in for the 3rd line, which means Zajac or Madden are moving.

I just wonder if he's not being brought in for the 3rd line, which means Zajac or Madden are moving.

Holik is 39. He was not brought in so that Madden and or Zajac are dealt.

Anything is possible but I just cannot imagine.

Given a deal for a d-man, Gio's gone. I still can't help but think that Holik's not going to the 4th line at $2.5M though.

I just wonder if he's not being brought in for the 3rd line, which means Zajac or Madden are moving.

Zajac yes; Madden no.

I give Zajac a 75% chance of being moved; Madden a 5%, Gionta an 80% if Zajac isn't.

I think Madden is a career Devil - and given Pando still is; he's earned it. I also think they will not be broken up despite people saying Pando goes to the 4th line. Their chemistry is just too solid to break them up (unless by some freak chance Sutter wants Madden to play 2nd line center and slots Holik in there... but highly unlikely).

Holik is 39. He was not brought in so that Madden and or Zajac are dealt.

Anything is possible but I just cannot imagine.

Holik is 37.

"The Devils were high on my list and I'm glad I got here and things worked out the way we wanted it," Rolston said. "I'm very fortunate where I am in my career to have a choice like I had today, especially to play with an organization I know is second to none in the National Hockey League."
Damn straight.

Holik is 39. He was not brought in so that Madden and or Zajac are dealt.

Anything is possible but I just cannot imagine.

Holik's going to make $2.5M. I can't see him making that much to play 8 or 9 minutes a night.

I just wonder if he's not being brought in for the 3rd line, which means Zajac or Madden are moving.

I don't think Zajac will be traded. I couldn't see Madden being our second line center. And since I don't think we'll trade Zajac, then what was the purpose of signing Holik only to trade Madden? Seems like a lateral move for an older center. The Devils would only save $500k. The only way I see that being possible is if there's a deal involving Madden + Gionta or Madden + ? for a defenseman and having Holik fill in this year. Then have Pelley take over the role next year.

I'm excited to have Rolston back on board. Can't wait to watch him take a slap shot.

Holik's going to make $2.5M. I can't see him making that much to play 8 or 9 minutes a night.

I can - 8 minutes via regular shifts; 2 minutes on the PP as faceoff specialist and bully in front of the net. (3 2nd unit PP's per game)

10 min total; but only 8 on the 4th line. ;)

I hope he is here for the 4th line. I certainly don't want to see Madden go, and I think Rupp -Holik - Clarkson is a great 4th line, at the least Rupp and Clarkson can learn a thing or two about how to properly play a big man's game.

Damn straight.

I like this guy. A lot.

I can - 8 minutes via regular shifts; 2 minutes on the PP as faceoff specialist and bully in front of the net. (3 2nd unit PP's per game)

10 min total; but only 8 on the 4th line. ;)

I think he will play more than that some nights. There is alot you can do with him.
He's actually a Sutter dream because he doesn't have to have a static shift all night.
I'm actually talking myself into loving this signing and I hate Bobby. More than anyone here could dream of.

Now, if they could just go back to the old jerseys instead of these pajamas, I would place my order for a Rolston jersey...

http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20080613/rolst_70795.jpg
RG has some photoshop work to do

That presents a good case for keeping Gionta. Getting that heavy point shot back could see his goal totals back on the rise.

Oh yes, Rolston on the PP and Holik on the regular shift (I hope they're paired together) are going to combine for one hell of a contract year for our boy Gio!

I think he will play more than that some nights. There is alot you can do with him.
He's actually a Sutter dream because he doesn't have to have a static shift all night.
I'm actually talking myself into loving this signing and I hate Bobby. More than anyone here could dream of.

Very true; I just don't think the 4th line in general will ever peak over 10 minutes a game max. Bobby certainly could if he's hot and someone's not (rotate him with Zajac if he's cold) etc...

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See you in October.

Lou on Rolston's age:

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2008/07/ive-finally-had.html#more

**Giving Rolston four years at age 35 is also a bit of a risk. If he drops off, the Devils are stuck with his cap hit for all four years, even if he retires (unless it's a Mogilny situation with an injury).

"I know people who when they're 35, they're going on 40 and I've had people who were 28 going on 40," Devils GM Lou Lamoriello said. "In Brian's case here, he's not a player at 35 years old. We look at him like a 30-year-old player. The way he keeps himself in shape and certainly the values he has as far as off the ice, we don't look at him as 35-year-old player. Age is a number. It has to do with exactly what he can bring and what he has. So, no, I'm not concerned."

"Maybe three years from now I will (be)," Lamoriello added, laughing, "But right now I'm not."

I looked and didn't see this mentioned in this thread...

From TSN:

"Brian Rolston has developed into one of the top two-way players in the game and certainly will add to our centre-ice position and also to our power play," Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello said. "Bobby is still one of the top size-strength forwards and will add size and strength to our centre ice."
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=sublink03&lpos=headlines_main

Not sure if that was an error on their part because he makes similar statements regarding center-ice on both guys, but Rolston is capable of playing all forward positions. This could mean...

1: Elias goes back to LW, Rolston/Zajac/Holik? centers him, Parise 2nd line LW
2: One of Elias/Zajac/Madden is leaving (aka, Zajac is leaving)

Just to toy around with lines if Rolston is center... There are more possibilities but these are what come to mind immediately.

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson (CRASH!)

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Madden - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Holik - Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana? - Clarkson
(if Zajac leaves)

Parise - Elias - Gionta
Bergfors? - Rolston - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana - Clarkson
(again, if Zajac leaves)



Regarding Gionta leaving, I don't see it. As someone else said, a lot of teams would love to have him and if Lou wanted to move him to get a top defenseman I think he would have done so beforehand, so that he could work the rest of the team in without salary problems. On top of that, if you take Gio out of the equation up front, you really don't have much in terms of guys who can score. Parise, Elias, and Rolston are the only guys who really score, although that may be unfair on Langenbrunner after his injury. Adding all this in with the way Lou spoke about him on NHL Live (talking about how he expects him to bounce back after underachieving this year...) makes me think he's got at least 1 more year with the team. And from what I understand, he's one of Lou's "family" sort of guys in the organization, so I would expect him to be re-signed unless he has a real bad year this time around.

I looked and didn't see this mentioned in this thread...

From TSN:


http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=sublink03&lpos=headlines_main

Not sure if that was an error on their part because he makes similar statements regarding center-ice on both guys, but Rolston is capable of playing all forward positions. This could mean...

1: Elias goes back to LW, Rolston/Zajac/Holik? centers him, Parise 2nd line LW
2: One of Elias/Zajac/Madden is leaving (aka, Zajac is leaving)

Just to toy around with lines if Rolston is center... There are more possibilities but these are what come to mind immediately.

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson (CRASH!)

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Madden - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Holik - Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana? - Clarkson
(if Zajac leaves)

Parise - Elias - Gionta
Bergfors? - Rolston - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana - Clarkson
(again, if Zajac leaves)



Regarding Gionta leaving, I don't see it. As someone else said, a lot of teams would love to have him and if Lou wanted to move him to get a top defenseman I think he would have done so beforehand, so that he could work the rest of the team in without salary problems. On top of that, if you take Gio out of the equation up front, you really don't have much in terms of guys who can score. Parise, Elias, and Rolston are the only guys who really score, although that may be unfair on Langenbrunner after his injury. Adding all this in with the way Lou spoke about him on NHL Live (talking about how he expects him to bounce back after underachieving this year...) makes me think he's got at least 1 more year with the team. And from what I understand, he's one of Lou's "family" sort of guys in the organization, so I would expect him to be re-signed unless he has a real bad year this time around.

lou said the same thing about zubrus last year (being a center)

Lou on Rolston's age:

http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2008/07/ive-finally-had.html#more

I didn't know Lou could laugh.

I looked and didn't see this mentioned in this thread...

From TSN:


http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242195&lid=sublink03&lpos=headlines_main

Not sure if that was an error on their part because he makes similar statements regarding center-ice on both guys, but Rolston is capable of playing all forward positions. This could mean...

1: Elias goes back to LW, Rolston/Zajac/Holik? centers him, Parise 2nd line LW
2: One of Elias/Zajac/Madden is leaving (aka, Zajac is leaving)

Just to toy around with lines if Rolston is center... There are more possibilities but these are what come to mind immediately.

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Holik - Clarkson (CRASH!)

Elias - Rolston - Gionta
Parise - Madden - Langenbrunner
Pandolfo - Holik - Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana? - Clarkson
(if Zajac leaves)

Parise - Elias - Gionta
Bergfors? - Rolston - Langenbrunner/Zubrus
Pandolfo - Madden - Lang/Zubrus
Rupp - Vrana - Clarkson
(again, if Zajac leaves)



Regarding Gionta leaving, I don't see it. As someone else said, a lot of teams would love to have him and if Lou wanted to move him to get a top defenseman I think he would have done so beforehand, so that he could work the rest of the team in without salary problems. On top of that, if you take Gio out of the equation up front, you really don't have much in terms of guys who can score. Parise, Elias, and Rolston are the only guys who really score, although that may be unfair on Langenbrunner after his injury. Adding all this in with the way Lou spoke about him on NHL Live (talking about how he expects him to bounce back after underachieving this year...) makes me think he's got at least 1 more year with the team. And from what I understand, he's one of Lou's "family" sort of guys in the organization, so I would expect him to be re-signed unless he has a real bad year this time around.

Disagree about what you said about Lou would have traded Gio for a D Man already if he was going to. The longer you wait the more of a chance of picking up a quality D via trade.

I'm not sure I like the amount, or the years, but it does make the team better.

Ditto. And that's coming from a HUGE Brian Rolston fan.

I didn't know Lou could laugh.

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I have been following Rolston and Souray for years as I have always like them. Great to have one back, although I wish it were both...

Rolston jersey on NHL Live :nod:

I didn't know Lou could laugh.

TG made it up.

Rolston Jersey - $39!

LIQUIDATE http://cgi.ebay.com/Minnesota-Wild-Brian-Rolston-Jersey_W0QQitemZ300237893498QQihZ020QQcategoryZ249 92QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

That is one nice jersey

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s93/vagel117/funny/rolstonback.jpg

Rolston Jersey - $39!

LIQUIDATE http://cgi.ebay.com/Minnesota-Wild-Brian-Rolston-Jersey_W0QQitemZ300237893498QQihZ020QQcategoryZ249 92QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

i think that is a little kids jersey.

i think that is a little kids jersey.

Umm........read it.

I know it's already been mentioned that Rolston received offers from 17 teams, but it was interesting to note his agent's comment:

forward back to the Devils' fold. Rolston's agent, Stephen Bartlett, told ESPN.com Rolston received firm offers from as many as 17 NHL teams, the most activity he's seen in 22 years as an NHL agent.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=3470156

I absolutely love this signing though - he was my favorite Devil at the time he was traded & I've wanted them to bring him back ever since.

It's also nice to be on the other side of the fence for once and see a highly pursued free agent chose to sign with the Devils over other big market teams & better offers.

Rolston jersey on NHL Live :nod:
Im not sure if its a replay but Rolston is on Home Ice right now and has nothing but great things to say about our team, welcome home Brian. Its refreshing to see the Devils as 1# on a players wish list.

Im not sure if its a replay but Rolston is on Home Ice right now and has nothing but great things to say about our team, welcome home Brian. Its refreshing to see the Devils as 1# on a players wish list.

Not a replay - I just listened in too. Terms he splashed around repeatedly like "2nd to none", "First class organization", "Lou called and that meant a lot to me",etc...

I like how he sorta boiled it down to Marty a bit too. Familiar system, loved Minn, but in the end it usually comes down to goaltending and with Marty in net you always have a chance to win.

He also said he didn't realize it yesterday that "We" (and he kept using that term) picked up Holik too; "Another great player".

Brian is excited, I'm excited, I think most fans are excited... man I wish the season started next week! I can't wait to see this team in action.

during the interview a question came up that Rossy asks many players "Do you remember your first goal?" Rolston said indeed - it was like yesterday. 2 on 1 with Semak passing him the puck and he got rid of it as fast as he could and scored 5 hole... on Patrick Roy. Rossy then said "It's amazing how many times I've asked that and the answer is Patrick Roy..." :laugh:

news from TG on where rolston might play. http://njmg.typepad.com/devilsblog/2008/07/elias-might-shi.html#more