Are you satisfied with today? (Free Agent Day, 7/1/08)

Re-signed:

Salvador - 4 years, $2.5M per
Pandolfo - 3 years, $2.5M per
Clarkson - N/A

Signed:

Rolston - 4 years, $5.0625M per
Holik - 1 year, $2.5M per

Forwards:

Patrik Elias (LW/C)
Zach Parise (LW/C)
Travis Zajac (C)
Brian Gionta (RW)
Dainus Zubrus (RW/C)
Jamie Langenbrunner (RW)
Brian Rolston (LW/RW/C)
John Madden (C)
Jay Pandolfo (LW)
Bobby Holik (C)
David Clarkson (RW)
Mike Rupp (LW)
Rod Pelley (C)
Niklas Bergfors (RW)

Defense:

Colin White
Paul Martin
Bryce Salvador
Vitaly Vishnevski
Mike Mottau
John David Oduya
Sheldon Brookbank
Andy Greene

I am satisfied with today, July 1st. I am not as yet satisfied with the offseason as a whole, given that I still firmly believe our biggest problems are on the blueline and those were not addressed.

I am glad, however, that they were not, given the prices that defensemen demanded on the market (Salvador = great signing when compared to open market prices).

Very satisfied. If we can somehow acquire a top 4 defenseman tomorrow, we may very well be the team to beat in the East.

How do I make it do we can see who voted and for what?

We still need a D-man, so I voted an "IDK" because I'm neither really happy or dissapointed.

"defense wins championships" -1 million different sports philosophers.

Very satisfied. And it doesn't seem like Lou is done yet.

didnt get that "sniper".. but definitely balanced the forwards a little better. still think they need a right handed shot from the point.. still lot of time before october.

im not sure just yet. i really like seeing rolston back, and i suppose herf will make it possible to roll 4 strong lines again. i just dont see the scoring problem taken care of. were still a #1 dman and somewhat capable forward away i feel.

I guess I'm the lone NO. but whatever. As much as I'm on the fence about Holik I think Lou has lost his mind bringing back a traitor and Rolston's contract is so much bank that he'll NEVER be worth on this team.

I'm happy to have him back (Rolston) , but not at that price.

I'm on the fence. I like dumping Brylin, keeping Salvador and adding Rolston. I don't like spending $5M on Pandolfo and Holik. If we can pull off a trade in which we get the best player in the deal I will be happy overall. As it stands this team doesn't look like one that can make a serious run.

I guess I'm the lone NO. but whatever. As much as I'm on the fence about Holik I think Lou has lost his mind bringing back a traitor and Rolston's contract is so much bank that he'll NEVER be worth on this team.

I'm happy to have him back (Rolston) , but not at that price.

nah ur not alone. im still on the fence. theres things i like and dislike. i really dont see how theyre going to score more goals from both ends with what has been done today. there luckily is still a long way to go before the season starts, and i still have some faith in unca lou.

Gonna have to say.. Yes.

Getting Rolston was great,(For what he can gives, and especially what he'll give for the Devils.) Not re-signing Brylin's good, while for Salvador.. Well,.. I was little upset at first, but then, For what Commodore got or Finger ... Sets the market lol.

As for Holik.. HOLY ROLLY BATMAN ! I didn't expect this. He's gonna be a very nice fit as a 4rth checking line center.

Hell..

I have to say I liked this year's free agency better than the last one year. :)

John David Oduya??

I am loving Day 1 of Free Agency as a Devils Fan.

We added a top 6 forward and a veteran PK specialist who wins faceoffs and can add scoring to the 4th line.

We kept Pandolfo and Salvador.

I look forward to see what is going to happen next.

I forgot to add I like the move to dump Brylin. It was a brutal pill to swallow, but Lou just had to do it.

Yes and whoever picked no was probably that troll "School" who is probably a Rangers fan is disguise.

I am so excited for opening night..

For those complaining about the money... It's an auction.. Guys always hit a higher price when they hit the open market.. I don't think any of these contracts are absurd compared to some of the others handed out today..

If Lou didn't make these moves the boards would have turned into a disaster..

I think we tend to look at the numbers a little too much. That stuff will be determined in time; whether someone was a great deal or a huge over-payment. Bottom line is the devils are easily a better team today than they were yesterday, and at the start of last season. The Rolston signing was excellent. He's a guy that can get you 25-30+ goals, he's big, fast, can play anywhere, the penalty kill, the point, huge shot, etc. I would say he was probably the best value on the market in terms of the dynamics he brings. We needed a top 6 forward and he's it. I love it.

I really liked the Holik signing too. It's only a one year deal. As long as we can stay a couple million under the cap this year his contract isn't a huge issue, because it's gone in one year. He add's an enormous amount of depth to the line-up. Plus, he's a guy that's still very good on the face-offs so we don't just have Madden now, and it gives us our own player who can run some goalies a little finally.

In signing both these guys and re-signing Salvador we added much needed character and leadership.

Letting Brylin go had to be done, and I'm happy we kept Pando too.

Shanahan tomorrow...

I like the Clarkson and Rolston deals, but I think we overpaid for Pando, I didn't want to see Salvador back and I've never liked Holik. I was sad to see Brylin go (if he really is gone), even if he has lost a step or two.

I think we tend to look at the numbers a little too much. That stuff will be determined in time; whether someone was a great deal or a huge over-payment. Bottom line is the devils are easily a better team today than they were yesterday, and at the start of last season. The Rolston signing was excellent. He's a guy that can get you 25-30+ goals, he's big, fast, can play anywhere, the penalty kill, the point, huge shot, etc. I would say he was probably the best value on the market in terms of the dynamics he brings. We needed a top 6 forward and he's it. I love it.

I really liked the Holik signing too. It's only a one year deal. As long as we can stay a couple million under the cap this year his contract isn't a huge issue, because it's gone in one year. He add's an enormous amount of depth to the line-up. Plus, he's a guy that's still very good on the face-offs so we don't just have Madden now, and it gives us our own player who can run some goalies a little finally.

In signing both these guys and re-signing Salvador we added much needed character and leadership.

Letting Brylin go had to be done, and I'm happy we kept Pando too.

:handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap: :handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap: :handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap: :handclap:

all day you just said it better

Shanahan tomorrow...

ugh:shakehead

I came into the offseason saying the Devils needed to at least get Rolston and a D-man. They got Rolston today now time to work on getting the defensemen. For today I am satisfied.

To me the biggest concerns going into the off season were defense and a playmaking center. Salvador was nice, Pandolfo was nice, Rolston isn't bad but I'm not jumpping through the roof for him. What is Holik's deal all about? That is a weird deal for me. The Devils didn't get a top defenseman yet or a playmaking center. Rolston will help the special teams, but I don't think he is more than a Langenbrunner on this team. Anywhere else and he is a goal scorer, here he is Langenbrunner.

Gotta say I wasn't happy with Pando's deal in terms of cash. The jury is still out with Salvador. It could be a great signing . . . or it could be a meh.

All signing Brylin would have done is forced us to pay a lot of money to a 4th-liner rather than give one of the kids a shot at league minimum. Besides, signing Holik makes us better on the 4th line and gives us a solid option at PK. Maybe he could be used on the 2nd PP unit down low too.

Rolston was a great signing. I've watched him play for the past 3 seasons in Minnesota, and he is just what this team needs: he still has good speed, has a thunderous slap shot, can play QB (or at least "designated cannon") on the PP, and still has a great defensive presence. Great move, Lou, and the money is right on too. If he plays on the 1st line, it gives that line an opportunity to play more minutes because of the all-around talent he brings. Wouldn't it be nice to have an Elias line actually playing 1st-line minutes rather than Madden's line?

To me the biggest concerns going into the off season were defense and a playmaking center. Salvador was nice, Pandolfo was nice, Rolston isn't bad but I'm not jumpping through the roof for him. What is Holik's deal all about? That is a weird deal for me. The Devils didn't get a top defenseman yet or a playmaking center. Rolston will help the special teams, but I don't think he is more than a Langenbrunner on this team. Anywhere else and he is a goal scorer, here he is Langenbrunner.

Elias will be our play making Center.

A trade will get the defenseman

Holik is a character player who wins faceoffs and upgrades our 4th line.
Rolston scored 30 Goals in 3 consecutive seasons for the Minnesota Wild, a team that is much more defensive minded then NJ. With Sutter implementing a puck possession game and more aggresiveness with the puck Rolston on the wing on one of our top 2 lines is a major upgrade. Rolston quoted in an article (do not have it nor do I think I can find it) that he was in the best shape of his life a few months ago when asked about going into Free Agency.

The Devils have only 2.3 Million left in Cap space but that is with 8 defense man and before Bergfors and Corrente are figured into the salary cap.

Our defense is better already with Salvador for a full season. We need one more defense man and depending on who we land we are very strong next season.

YES! YES YES YES!!! I'm pleased on all fronts so far, and just plain ecstatic that there's still room to grow. Way to go Lou, GREAT day one :yo:



PS: Welcome back to Bobby and Brian; I've never felt right seeing Rolston in another jersey. Time for them both to don their new New Jersey jerseys! :P

No. Emphatically No. I wish I had multiple accounts so I could vote twice for "no."

Anything that puts money in the pocket of Holik cannot be good in my book.

Flyers fan here. I think the signings of Rolston and Holik are great. I was hoping the Flyers could have gotten Hoilk. Your team is definitely going to be more of a pain to play against.

No. Emphatically No. I wish I had multiple accounts so I could vote twice for "no."

Anything that puts money in the pocket of Holik cannot be good in my book.

You really hate Holik... more than I do... why?

No. Emphatically No. I wish I had multiple accounts so I could vote twice for "no."

Anything that puts money in the pocket of Holik cannot be good in my book.

:handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap::handclap: :handclap::handclap::handclap:

You're my boy, Foy.

i demand hainsey plz no malik whatever u do lou

Rolston this year>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Souray last year

That's all I have to say about that.

You really hate Holik... more than I do... why?

If he makes our team better then swallow your pride and live with the signing.
Holik has neversaid a bad thing about the Devils organization.

Before Pando's flew into the boards, I think he was playing his best hockey. The year before that he was given some Selke buzz and he's always been a loyal player. The hope is that he is fully healthy this year and continues to play better. He kinda deserves it in my opinion.

I'm pretty happy. I like Rolston and Holik signings. Brings more character to a team with character up the wazoo, so that can never be a bad thing. As I've said ad nauseum, I'm weary of the end years of the Rolston contract, but for these next two years, I'm confident that he'll play well.

We still need to work on the D. Bring Sal back was huge - I'm probably his biggest backer on these boards, and seeing some of the ridiculous contracts that were given out to stay at home defensemen today, I'm even more satisfied. I'd like to see something along the lines of a McCabe for Gionta swap to give ourselfs a puck mover.

I'm sure Lou will not just stop here. There must be more coming.

However I am satisfied with the signings today. Rolston brings a much needed top 6 into the lineup, someone we desperately needed on the PK. If he can spark the scoring, then we'll win some of those games we marginally lost last year.

Did we really do that badly on the defense? It was a learning experience for our D who are a year wiser and a year more experienced. Guys like Oduya and Mottau were surprises and we didn't really do too badly on defense. How many games did Marty really give up over 3 goals?

I think we'll do much better this year even if the roster stays the way it is now. But I am sure Lou is not done with the improvements yet and I'm sure with the guys we have at training camp this year competing for a spot, there will be at least one prospect that will make it on the roster.

I'm looking forward to this season.

Some players are overpriced, like Salvador and Holik. Although, I'm happy that Lou actually made some moves that will help us. And he did it on the first day. Hopefully he can get a trade and this will turn out to be a awesome offseason.

I'm not that keen on Rolston. He seems like the typical Devils player; shoots often, little creative skill. But we'll see how he works with the other forwards.

I loved Holik when he was in NJ. He was the perfect power center who could score goals and play physical. But now he's just over the hill, so I hope he can at least bring some physical toughness, something that's missing on this team.

No. Emphatically No. I wish I had multiple accounts so I could vote twice for "no."

Anything that puts money in the pocket of Holik cannot be good in my book.

You really hate Holik... more than I do... why?

Rolston this year>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Souray last year

That's all I have to say about that.

I guess I'm the lone NO. but whatever. As much as I'm on the fence about Holik I think Lou has lost his mind bringing back a traitor and Rolston's contract is so much bank that he'll NEVER be worth on this team.

I'm happy to have him back (Rolston) , but not at that price.

What's the problem boyz ?!?!?!?

Last year, Lou does nothing... now he get's us a top 6 forward that will most problably play on the point for our 1st PP unit and play on the 2nd duo of our PK. He also adds one of the top 4th liner in the game because he's big, strong, wins faceoffs (AND THAT'S HUGGGGGE) and brings leadership. We have Madden that is one the best 3rd line center in the game... now we have one of the best 4th line player in the game.

Puck possession is the name of the game. You have the puck, you own the game... PERIOD. You win faceoffs, you have the puck. You have the puck, you control the play. Don't you have a better chance at scoring goals and winning games when YOU have the puck for 70% of the game ??? YES. I'm not saying Holik is GOD, but you guy's need to realise that this isn't a bad thing at all. Look at it this way... Holik > Brylin and Rolston gives us that big slapper from the point on the PP, he adds some more scoring and allows Lou to maybe go after a BIG NAME d-men since Gionta and maybe Zajac would become "trade bait".


It's a win/win situation boyz..... CHIN-UP ;)

Voted yes, very happy with today. Holik threw me for a loop a bit but I'm starting to like the idea of 2 solid checking lines to match up with the star duo's in the division. Rolston was #1 on my wish list so no complaints there. Pando's salary is fine by me considering what he could have gotten elsewhere.. ditto for Sal.

Like most people here, I echo the concern over a quality d-man but for a first day this was pretty damn good.

To me the biggest concerns going into the off season were defense and a playmaking center. Salvador was nice, Pandolfo was nice, Rolston isn't bad but I'm not jumpping through the roof for him. What is Holik's deal all about? That is a weird deal for me. The Devils didn't get a top defenseman yet or a playmaking center. Rolston will help the special teams, but I don't think he is more than a Langenbrunner on this team. Anywhere else and he is a goal scorer, here he is Langenbrunner.

i have to disagree with you here. in Minny he played a very defense first system with Jaques Lemaire. If he can score 30 goals there, i am pretty sure he can do it here.

Im not saying he is going to score thirty goals, but just because we are the "defense first" devils is not a reason he wont score 30 goals.

Also i am absolutely ecstatic about these signings. My faith in lou has sky rocketed and i think we will sign a good dman when all is said and done.

We might actually beat the rangers this year in regular time. :)

I'm just glad Lou was active

I like what Lou did. Yes, he overpaid to keep and get guys, but considering how the market is today it's not that bad.

I really didn't think that Holik was going to get $2.5 million, but he did and we have to live with it. Holik makes the Devils instantly a harder team to play against. He will be in your face all night long and that will piss other teams off.

I still believe that the money we used on Holik could've been spent on a defenseman, but I don't doubt that Lou tried signing one. It just probably wasn't possible with the way the market is.

As many have stated before, Lou will probably acquire a quality d-man. We can all speculate in who that might be, but in the end only Lou knows. I have faith in the guy.

A D-corps consisting of:
Martin-Oduya
Salvador-White
Mottau-Vishnevski/Brookbank

..is just not good enough. This was our problem last year, it's gonna be our problem next year too if something doesn't change.

Last but not least I want to praise one of the best heroes the Devils have had throughout their history. Sergei Brylin might not have been the flashiest player on the team, he never was one of the better, he was never one of the more outspoken ones and he never complained about anything. He always did what was asked of him and he was a tremendeous teammate. Sarge will always have a special place in my heart and his contributions to the New Jersey Devils will never be forgotten.

It was time for Sarge to move on, we all knew it and we all probably wanted it. It doesn't make it any easier when it becomes a reality though. One does get sentimental and I just can't help but choking up when I think about everything he's done and the different roles he's stepped into over the years. Some people probably don't understand how much his versatality has meant to this organization. This team wouldn't have had the success it has had without guys like Sergei Brylin on it. Thank you for everything Sarge! Good luck in the future where ever it may be!

I didnt vote, because I didnt quite like any of the options. I'm not satisfied with today, because it takes the team pretty close to the cap and at the end of the day it's a team not capable of winning the cup. It is, however, just one day, and Lou might have much up his sleeves for all we know. In Lou I Trust.......

As many have stated before, Lou will probably acquire a quality d-man. We can all speculate in who that might be, but in the end only Lou knows. I have faith in the guy.

I agree, before the signing of Holik we had enough cap space to get a guy like Streit and he would not be the answer to our defensive woes. I think Salvador really solidified the defense at the end of the year and if White's play didn't fall off I think they would have been serviceable at the very least. Sure it doesn't compare to any of our cup winning defensive lineups but the players just weren't out there that would put us over the top. I have faith that this defense will work fine in the regular season and then I'll hope Lou can land a puck moving defenseman at the deadline or sooner.

So far so good, overall I´m happy with yesterday´s signings. Pando and Sal will be good players for the Devs.

Rolston, as said earlier, is a valuable player with the talent and versatility he brings. He´s in good shape, so the age factor isn´t that much of a question. And nowadays players don´t necessarily "get old" that easy when they reach 35.

With Holik I had some mixed feelings, but this way Devs buy some time to add new players like Vrana to the mix and prepare Halischuk & co. for the job. At least I hope so. And if there´s trades coming, I could see some roster spots opening up front, so there will be room for new faces. And I´m happy with the experience Holik brings along with faceoff skills and maybe some offense. This way Devs can roll all four lines and execute puck possession far better than last year.

In a way, I hope a looming trade would open up a spot for Brylin, too. Just for one year with salary around $800k. He would be a good fit into our fourth line, even though this is also a sentimental move. I know, some will get chills over this, but had to say it. Would be sad to see Sarge leave like this. And if he does, I hope he stays within the organisation and becomes a scout or whatnot.

In a nutshell: Offense looks quite a lot better than a week ago. Hopefully we´ll see a d-man landing too because this D-corps won´t be any better than last year. If and when that happens, this is a promising offseason.

at this point, with current players, I´d like to see this lineup:

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

Martin-Oduya
Mottau-White
Salvador-Brookbank, Vishnevski etc.

I'm back on the Lou-Aid temporarily. It depends on what happens with the defense in the coming months. I think in addition to adding a "top 3" d-man, the defense needs to undergo what experts (like myself) call the "deturdification process". Vish, Brookbank, Greene/Mottau, and other defenseman with the turd-like qualities need to go. We can't roll with 9 blueliners like he did last year. It's a waste of cap and roster space.

I'm back on the Lou-Aid temporarily. It depends on what happens with the defense in the coming months. I think in addition to adding a "top 3" d-man, the defense needs to undergo what experts (like myself) call the "deturdification process". Vish, Brookbank, Greene/Mottau, and other defenseman with the turd-like qualities need to go. We can't roll with 9 blueliners like he did last year. It's a waste of cap and roster space.

No Ryan Suter my friend, but maybe Chicago will listen to offers for Seabrook? :nod:

We still need a defenseman. Preferrably one with a more offensive mind set.

Although there are more reasons why this won't/shouldn't happen than should, do you think Lou takes a run at Rob Blake? I know, he's old, probably still thinks he should be paid Campbell money and wants to stay on the west coast, but think of the experience he'd bring to our younger D-men. If Blake (or anyone else) could give me 50+ points from the blue line, I'm happy.

On an unrelated (except for age), what do people think Sakic is going to do? Stay in COL? Retire? Take the NYR up on their offer from a few years ago?

Hell yes I'm happy. Holik may be 1M too much, but it's only for one year. I think we've actually got a power play now! Holik can win faceoffs and play in front of the net, while Rolston can launch cannons that will actually go on goal?

Also, I'm already looking forward to shootouts against the Rangers this year!

You really hate Holik... more than I do... why?

Holik has the skating ability of Derrian Hatcher, the hands of Mike Grier, the shot of Ty Conklin, and the whining ability of Sidney Crosby. He makes Chris Pronger look like a nancy boy with his elbows, and he makes Bryan Marchment look like a hardy boy with his knees. I've seen him start multiple line brawls with elbows to the back of heads well after the whistle. I've seen him throw things at players on the ice from the bench, I've seen him shove reporters from other teams, and I saw an NHL referee call him a s---head. He represents everything I dislike about the sport.

Shanahan tomorrow...

I think we filled our "Old dude" quota for the season.

You know, I'm extremely happy with yesterday. We balanced our lines out brilliantly. Not sure why Sutter didn't do this enough, but we have our PEG line back. Parise-Elias-Gio was solid together. We have enough depth where we can keep them all together, because now you have Rolston to balance out our secondary lines. Pick your poison for the second line combos. Pando-Madden-Rolston? Zubrus-Madden-Langs? I forgot that combos my dad was telling me last night, but it works out beautifully.

And yes, Holik is slow and old. But he's big and smart. He is one of the smartest hockey players out there. He's a veteran guy, and he is NOT afraid to call out B.S. Imagine a line with him Rupp and Zubrus? Sure they're slow, but they are a force! I remember when he signed with the Rags, they put him and Lindros together and the Devils had no answer for that game.

We forget that signing guys like Rolston and Holik take pressure of Parise and Zajac. Parise is our future offense. He hasn't had a breakout season yet. Elias still has plenty left in the tank. Zajac stunk it up, but as someone pointed out Zajac and Marlaeu have similar stats through their first two years. We can look to our core team to be the offensive stars. I really think Parise can take off this year! Both signings can help our Powerplay... obviously Rolston more so.

Yes, we're lacking on D a little. But we did improve. Was it enough? Maybe not. But this was a slightly inflated FA group. Do we want to spend $6.5 million on Wade Redden? For 6 years! We made a splash, made some positive moves, and we're a better team this year then last year. Plus, its not over yet. Who knows whats left.

ok i'm done

Holik has the skating ability of Derrian Hatcher, the hands of Mike Grier, the shot of Ty Conklin, and the whining ability of Sidney Crosby. He makes Chris Pronger look like a nancy boy with his elbows, and he makes Bryan Marchment look like a hardy boy with his knees. I've seen him start multiple line brawls with elbows to the back of heads well after the whistle. I've seen him throw things at players on the ice from the bench, I've seen him shove reporters from other teams, and I saw an NHL referee call him a s---head. He represents everything I dislike about the sport.

Listen, I agree with your critique of his skating as well as his personality to a degree, and the way he complains. But Holik's hands aren't that bad, and with the exception of some dumb penalties he's an extremely smart player that knows the game very well.

But yes, he is an ignorant ****. I think that's why I'm glad he's back on OUR team. He's gotta be one of the top 5 agitators in the league

I didnt vote, because I didnt quite like any of the options. I'm not satisfied with today, because it takes the team pretty close to the cap and at the end of the day it's a team not capable of winning the cup. It is, however, just one day, and Lou might have much up his sleeves for all we know. In Lou I Trust.......

Ditto. Can't get excited for a 4th line move and bargain defenseman. I'm tired of watching this team fail to clear the crease and not get the puck out of our zone. So many BS goals scored last year that were the fault of the D. I wish that anytime we consider a player where we say 'he's not that great but we have him on favorable terms' that we take a pass. Given our offensive is not going to pull 3/4 goals out of the hat for us frequently (even with Rolston) we need top line D (not bargains). Kills me that Campbell/Redden move at 6m-7m per year and we blow 2.5m on Holik. He doesn't fix our holes and his salary plus cap space comes close to getting us either. Top D aren't going to be any cheaper next year......Trade may be an answer, but tough. You need another party willing to do it, needing what you have to let go, and having what you want. UFA is easier, and we have (had) the space for a big acquisition.

Ditto. Can't get excited for a 4th line move and bargain defenseman. I'm tired of watching this team fail to clear the crease and not get the puck out of our zone. So many BS goals scored last year that were the fault of the D. I wish that anytime we consider a player where we say 'he's not that great but we have him on favorable terms' that we take a pass. Given our offensive is not going to pull 3/4 goals out of the hat for us frequently (even with Rolston) we need top line D (not bargains). Kills me that Campbell/Redden move at 6m-7m per year and we blow 2.5m on Holik. He doesn't fix our holes and his salary plus cap space comes close to getting us either. Top D aren't going to be any cheaper next year......Trade may be an answer, but tough. You need another party willing to do it, needing what you have to let go, and having what you want. UFA is easier, and we have (had) the space for a big acquisition.

Do you think Redden is going to be "double the player' that Salvador is? I'm sure he'll get a 10-15 more points, but is that worth $3.5 million more?

Campbell will definitely get you more points, but remember he's on a different style of team. Still, he's not a force on the back-end. He can hit, but he's not exactly the defensive force you're looking for. Martin is better defensively.

Sure, I would have loved to have either of these guys. They have tall price tags, though. Seriously, these guys are getting paid on or above the level of guys like Sydor/Lidstrom/Niedermeyer. They're not playing on that level, though.

Yes, I'm very satisfied. But I think Holik got a bit too much money. I just hope we'll acquire a defenseman somehow.

I love the Rolston move, he adds to the power play and his capable of creating goals out of nothing. And if elias moves to his wing patty can still play set up man because Rolston is a center who can score.

Holik - well, at 2.5m I'd say that's a bit much. I understand we need what he brings because there is nobody on this team with attitude that gets in the other teams face and will do this cheap little boderline plays that it takes to win in the post season. Holik absolutely does that and for anyone who thinks he has hands of stone I suggest you watch the 95 and 2000 cup videos over, he and McKay were HUGE parts of our offense those years. That is just a statement made out of hate with no truth to it at all.

BUT

we really really need another solid puck moving defenseman. I would rather have spent that money there. If Lou can add that, somehow than I feel like we will have a solid team. I know we all wanted a game breaking winger, we just have to really on Parise to be that player and hopefully Gionta and Elias and Rolston to supplement him enough. I think that they can if Gio can find his game again.

I came into the offseason saying the Devils needed to at least get Rolston and a D-man. They got Rolston today now time to work on getting the defensemen. For today I am satisfied.

I'm with you. We need to get a defensemen and it will have to be by trade. Who that it is? I guess we will see.

I'm satisfied, the only thing is we still need another dman and/or a top center.

Despite the pricetag, Rolston and Holik bring something we lacked recently: leadership. We got plenty of youth but what good is it if we don't have leadership/experience? Plus, Rolston is of the best 2-way players in the game today and Holik won't let ANYONE push his teamates around unlike last year. And he's better than Asham.

PS Gionta or Zajac will not be here come opening night.

I'm satisfied, the only thing is we still need another dman and/or a top center.

Despite the pricetag, Rolston and Holik bring something we lacked recently: leadership. We got plenty of youth but what good is it if we don't have leadership/experience? Plus, Rolston is of the best 2-way players in the game today and Holik won't let ANYONE push his teamates around unlike last year. And he's better than Asham.

PS Gionta or Zajac will not be here come opening night.

What about Madden, Pandolfo, Brodeur, White, Martin, Langenbrunner ...

What about Madden, Pandolfo, Brodeur, White, Martin, Langenbrunner ...

yeah I don't think it was leadership that was lacking, but Holik's in your face edge definitely was. I also think you'll see more of that from Salvador when he is here for a full season.

Oh and I agree about Zajac or Gio probably being gone.

Do you think Redden is going to be "double the player' that Salvador is? I'm sure he'll get a 10-15 more points, but is that worth $3.5 million more?

Campbell will definitely get you more points, but remember he's on a different style of team. Still, he's not a force on the back-end. He can hit, but he's not exactly the defensive force you're looking for. Martin is better defensively.

Sure, I would have loved to have either of these guys. They have tall price tags, though. Seriously, these guys are getting paid on or above the level of guys like Sydor/Lidstrom/Niedermeyer. They're not playing on that level, though.

Rags did overpay for Redden, Campbell was the deal we wanted.

Our offense, particularly with Rolston, has the ability to surprise on the upside - Elais, Gio, even Pando could all step up in a big way over last year. Our D was a big problem and it isn't going to get fixed with what we had - Martin/White are good but known entities, no upside there, ditto Salvador. And none of the others - Greene, Oduya, Mottau, Vish - are poised to fix our problems. That's why we needed a big deal here - someone who can get the puck out of our zone.

And I agree prices are going up with time - look what goalies are getting relative to Brodeur's older contract. That is exactly why I'm frustrated we didn't pull the trigger on the D. No one on the current roster is going to step into that role and next year it's only going to be more expensive to fix it.

left i totally agree with you but i cant state my opinion on the forum without being called at troll.. i think our signings are mediocre. Compaired to the names that are out there we did horrible signing holik and im tired of hearing about how we did with him in the past... We signed 2 men that are over 35.. we dropped the ball. Its also so funny that you say we cant clear the puck for our lives i have been saying this to my friends for years. i cant even count how many times we have been bit in the butt in the playoffs for not clearing the puck.. As for the poll i cant understand how more people are happy about how we did .... with this roster we will not make the 3rd round of playoffs

left i totally agree with you but i cant state my opinion on the forum without being called at troll.. i think our signings are mediocre. Compaired to the names that are out there we did horrible signing holik and im tired of hearing about how we did with him in the past... We signed 2 men that are over 35.. we dropped the ball. Its also so funny that you say we cant clear the puck for our lives i have been saying this to my friends for years. i cant even count how many times we have been bit in the butt in the playoffs for not clearing the puck.. As for the poll i cant understand how more people are happy about how we did .... with this roster we will not make the 3rd round of playoffs

You are assuming Lou is done. Rolston will definitely help our PP at the least. Holik is the best 4th line center we have had in years. So far so good.

No Ryan Suter my friend, but maybe Chicago will listen to offers for Seabrook? :nod:

The fact that Lou went balls out yesterday gave me hope.

The fact that Lou went balls out yesterday gave me hope.

for nothing

Satisfied is the wrong word for me. Surprised somewhat. I didn't set my expectations high on Lou doing anything on July 1 so whatever happened wouldn't shock me. Signing Holik was a total surprise for me I agree with the money and the terms. Signing Rolston wasn't a complete surprise nor was the money but for sure the terms IMO are too long. He is 34/35 and won't be with the Devils but will be collecting $$ from the Devils when he is 38/39. Salvador didn't surprise me the money and term is OK. 'Hands of Stone" resigning was OK, no surprise but it was for too much money and for too long, at best he is a 4th line player.

Overall not a bad day for Lou and the Devils on July 1. They haven't fixed the two areas that need fixing to be a strong cup contender the offense still needs a good to very good center for Elias and Parise and they still need defensive help, by adding a strong defenseman.

Let's see what July 2 brings.

No. Emphatically No. I wish I had multiple accounts so I could vote twice for "no."

Anything that puts money in the pocket of Holik cannot be good in my book.

No offense Foy, but you're not even a Devil's fan. I would like to hear from you how you feel about the Caps, but not being a Devils fan, you just won't have the same feelings about Holik as we do. Its a love/hate thing.

Holik wasn't brought in here to score, which he can. Lou brought him back for his smarts, size, grit and as posted in your face mentality. For one year, even at his salary was a great pick-up.

I like the Rolston signing, up in the air about Holik. Yeah he ditched us for the Rangers years ago, but you know he'll still put 110 percent on the ice. Plus, something about having this as our fourth line, makes me happy:

Rupp-Holik-Clarkson

That's some serious agitation right there.

While we still need some offense and an number 1 dman, I like bolstering the D with Bryce - while we didn't see much of him last year, he's proven and I think he'll be a good fit, and he was a bargain compared to some of the other D men out there - Redden at 6.5, Finger at 3.5, Campbell at 7.1, what the hell.

I don't think we're done just yet, I can see a trade coming up - maybe gun for Hlavat since Chicago needs to relieve some cap space, something like that. Not sure what we can do about D, we still have an abundance of D:

Martin, White, Oduya, Greene, Mottau, Vish, Salvie, Brookank

I sense a package deal or two coming up as I'm pretty sure the UFA D market is done for us - no way Lou spends the money GM's are giving out right now.

No offense Foy, but you're not even a Devil's fan. I would like to hear from you how you feel about the Caps, but not being a Devils fan, you just won't have the same feelings about Holik as we do. Its a love/hate thing.

But he is a Devils fan...

havlat is a 6 million dollar cap hit

I like what Lou has done here. The team can roll four solid O-lines that can score and play good two-way hockey. This forward group will be tough to defend against.

I like the Rolston signing in that it brings a big shot on the PP. I read an article (NJ.com? NorthJersey.com?) that talked about Rolston finally giving the team a big shot from the point on the PP. It made me laugh to think what Langs must think about that comment. Does the team now have two RWs on the point for the two PP lines?

Even though Holik is signed for only one year, I have a feeling it's one of those "we'll keep resigning you until you can't play anymore" type things. Lou just doesn't want to sign him to a multi-year deal because he doesn't want the cap hit when Holik decides to retire / can't play anymore physically. He will solidify the 4th line to be one which we can trust on the ice for more than 3 minutes a game.

The more the lines get spread, the fresher the players can be. I can see a 18-15-18-9 split in ice time with the Elias and Madden lines getting the most ice time and the Zajac and Holik lines not far behind.

Overall, I'm pretty happy with yesterday's deals. I think Lou might want one more offensive D-Man to solidify the D but overall, I think the team is on the right path.

But he is a Devils fan...

common sense will only confuse the issue.

Holik wasn't lying when he called us spoiled.

The fans get on Lou when he sits back & they get on him for whatever moves he makes..

The team is better than they were 48 hours ago

I agree JB, it's amazing. He does something that significantly changes the look of the team, and people *****, he does nothing and people *****......it's Louse-Louse for Mr. Lamoriello.

it's Louse-Louse for Mr. Lamoriello.
Are you taking shots at the man's personal hygiene or is that another instance of Canadians throwing around u's all willy-nilly?

Are you taking shots at the man's personal hygiene or is that another instance of Canadians throwing around u's all willy-nilly?

no no, LOU, LOU get it?

Are you taking shots at the man's personal hygiene or is that another instance of Canadians throwing around u's all willy-nilly?

:biglaugh: I blame the British.

How can these signings not help? Rolston adds speed and a HUGE shot. He'll help the PP ALOT. Holik adds size, smarts, good faceoff skills, crushing checks and not to mention the fact that he is irritating as hell.
I am pleased with what Lou did and I don't think he is done. I smell a trade in the works...

How can these signings not help? Rolston adds speed and a HUGE shot. He'll help the PP ALOT. Holik adds size, smarts, good faceoff skills, crushing checks and not to mention the fact that he is irritating as hell.
I am pleased with what Lou did and I don't think he is done. I smell a trade in the works...

There are ways this could work out very very bad, but it is better to not tempt fate.

There are ways this could work out very very bad, but it is better to not tempt fate.

There are always ways things could end up badly. that's normal. I just think these were good moves.

But he is a Devils fan...

Since when? He has said time and again that he's a Caps fan. He is only here cause his gf is a Devils fan.

I am satisfied with today, July 1st. I am not as yet satisfied with the offseason as a whole, given that I still firmly believe our biggest problems are on the blueline and those were not addressed.

I am glad, however, that they were not, given the prices that defensemen demanded on the market (Salvador = great signing when compared to open market prices).

Now that the buzz over Rolston & Holik has passed for some of us comes the realization that we are heading into training camp with the same patchwork defense that started out so well last season but then quickly fell apart, really fading & looking horrible down the stretch and in the playoffs.

Unless Paul Martin rises to a new level and Corrente & Salmela have outstanding rookie seasons and are able to tip the balance of our overtaxed defense, there is no reason to believe that this same over-relied on, over-exhausted defense will not pick up were it left off this past April.

Although the acquisitions of Rolston & Holik are fiscally sound and improve us offensively, especially on the PP, PK, in faceoffs, in size and strength and in leadership & experience are they enough to get us out of the 1st round of the playoffs?

I think that our offense will improve only slightly, and perhaps our PP will improve as well, if not only marginally. Even if we are able to squeeze out 10 more PP goals out of having Rolston on the PP, that just moves us up from 25th to just 20th out of 30 NHL teams in terms of PP goals scored. That's not much of an improvement and scoring 10 more PP goals in an 82 game season is not as easy as it appears.

So in summary, this is the same awful team we had in March & April, one year older too, with just the addition of Rolston & Holik, who while are both still good, do not have the talent to carry a team on their shoulders.

Unless we get a true #1 puck moving defenseman and a true natural #1 Center, expect Gionta & Langenbrunner to continue to struggle, expect more endless line combinations, changes, moving people in and out of their natural positions (Zubrus, Elias, Rolston, etc), and more mistakes made on Defense by Johnny Oduya and Mike Mottau.

Bottom line(s) for me are that Lou really isn't crazy for saying that the players on the team last year underachieved and that we can expect more - when coupled with the statements made about what DOES need to be changed.

The players he was able to bring in / re-sign yesterday will make us a solid group for the first half of the season and leave us right in contention for the division - and the team will be in a perfect position to 100% identify and FIX any immediate needs for the playoff run, just like the old days.

The top free agents are fun to talk about when hockey starved, but if any one player was signed to play in NJ yesterday for $7M +, annually, it would be a disaster

Finally, and most importantly, "Debs" has got to be the lamest thing I've ever heard. Seriously?!

Now that the buzz over Rolston & Holik has passed for some of us comes the realization that we are heading into training camp with the same patchwork defense that started out so well last season but then quickly fell apart, really fading & looking horrible down the stretch and in the playoffs.

Unless Paul Martin rises to a new level and Corrente & Salmela have outstanding rookie seasons and are able to tip the balance of our overtaxed defense, there is no reason to believe that this same over-relied on, over-exhausted defense will not pick up were it left off this past April.

Although the acquisitions of Rolston & Holik are fiscally sound and improve us offensively, especially on the PP, PK, in faceoffs, in size and strength and in leadership & experience are they enough to get us out of the 1st round of the playoffs?

I think that our offense will improve only slightly, and perhaps our PP will improve as well, if not only marginally. Even if we are able to squeeze out 10 more PP goals out of having Rolston on the PP, that just moves us up from 25th to just 20th out of 30 NHL teams in terms of PP goals scored. That's not much of an improvement and scoring 10 more PP goals in an 82 game season is not as easy as it appears.

So in summary, this is the same awful team we had in March & April, one year older too, with just the addition of Rolston & Holik, who while are both still good, do not have the talent to carry a team on their shoulders.

Unless we get a true #1 puck moving defenseman and a true natural #1 Center, expect Gionta & Langenbrunner to continue to struggle, expect more endless line combinations, changes, moving people in and out of their natural positions (Zubrus, Elias, Rolston, etc), and more mistakes made on Defense by Johnny Oduya and Mike Mottau.

finally someone who feels the same way i do

finally someone who feels the same way i do

Well, that's going to be one fun club then.

tool is my favorite band wowow

I agree with you Muttley but would you have given any of the UFA Dmen those contracts? Cuz I sure as hell wouldn't. Next best route is trade and I'm hoping Lou pulls something good. Bottom Line, yesterday was good and we got better. End of story.

we should go after Bouwmeester

we should go after Bouwmeester

That DOES make sense. I'm glad we didn't give the contracts that Redden or Campbell got. But i'd go for Jay-Bouw.

Question... if we could finagle some trades/cap would take on McCabe?

I agree with you Muttley but would you have given any of the UFA Dmen those contracts? Cuz I sure as hell wouldn't. Next best route is trade and I'm hoping Lou pulls something good. Bottom Line, yesterday was good and we got better. End of story.

It was that ridiculous Mike Commodore contract that did it for me.

It seems like everybody is happy that Lou didn't overpay for mediocrity and are content with just Rolston & Holik.

As I've said before, we can get what we really need at the trade deadline next February. Rahter than let Gionta walk for nothing next summer and to avoid what happened with Gomez & Rafalski (walking for nothing), I really wish he would dump Gionta at the deadline and use our prospects youth and other roster players to grab a Center or puck moving Defenseman.

If Lou is done for next season's team, then we haven't improved enough to truly compete.

If he is waiting to grab a Center of Defenseman through trade, then this mini-rebuild project is a work still in progress and I commend him for his efforts.

But unfortunately I really feel that Lou thinks this team is good enough to compete and that by adding Rolston & Holik, along with Brodeur starting like 80 games again, it gives us enough to make a run.

:biglaugh: I blame the British.

:rant:

It was that ridiculous Mike Commodore contract that did it for me.

It seems like everybody is happy that Lou didn't overpay for mediocrity and are content with just Rolston & Holik.

As I've said before, we can get what we really need at the trade deadline next February. Rahter than let Gionta walk for nothing next summer and to avoid what happened with Gomez & Rafalski (walking for nothing), I really wish he would dump Gionta at the deadline and use our prospects youth and other roster players to grab a Center or puck moving Defenseman.

If Lou is done for next season's team, then we haven't improved enough to truly compete.

If he is waiting to grab a Center of Defenseman through trade, then this mini-rebuild project is a work still in progress and I commend him for his efforts.

But unfortunately I really feel that Lou thinks this team is good enough to compete and that by adding Rolston & Holik, along with Brodeur starting like 80 games again, it gives us enough to make a run.


No arguments here, I pray Lou isn't done.

It was that ridiculous Mike Commodore contract that did it for me.

It seems like everybody is happy that Lou didn't overpay for mediocrity and are content with just Rolston & Holik.

As I've said before, we can get what we really need at the trade deadline next February. Rahter than let Gionta walk for nothing next summer and to avoid what happened with Gomez & Rafalski (walking for nothing), I really wish he would dump Gionta at the deadline and use our prospects youth and other roster players to grab a Center or puck moving Defenseman.

If Lou is done for next season's team, then we haven't improved enough to truly compete.

If he is waiting to grab a Center of Defenseman through trade, then this mini-rebuild project is a work still in progress and I commend him for his efforts.

But unfortunately I really feel that Lou thinks this team is good enough to compete and that by adding Rolston & Holik, along with Brodeur starting like 80 games again, it gives us enough to make a run.

C'mon, Muttley, you know the roster is overbooked going into camp. There will be trade(s). Lou and company have 3 months to rub their brain cells together and come up with something, that should be plenty of time. I wanted one forward to give us an opportunity to make a trade. Two forwards was a pleasant surprise.

It was that ridiculous Mike Commodore contract that did it for me.

It seems like everybody is happy that Lou didn't overpay for mediocrity and are content with just Rolston & Holik.

As I've said before, we can get what we really need at the trade deadline next February. Rahter than let Gionta walk for nothing next summer and to avoid what happened with Gomez & Rafalski (walking for nothing), I really wish he would dump Gionta at the deadline and use our prospects youth and other roster players to grab a Center or puck moving Defenseman.

If Lou is done for next season's team, then we haven't improved enough to truly compete.

If he is waiting to grab a Center of Defenseman through trade, then this mini-rebuild project is a work still in progress and I commend him for his efforts.

But unfortunately I really feel that Lou thinks this team is good enough to compete and that by adding Rolston & Holik, along with Brodeur starting like 80 games again, it gives us enough to make a run.

It's only the 2nd day of FA.. Still a long time until the season starts..

Plenty of time to work.. The Rolston and Holik signing should tell you he's looking to win now..

I don't see how Holik and Rolston would figure in to a mini-rebuild

As I've said before, we can get what we really need at the trade deadline next February. Rahter than let Gionta walk for nothing next summer and to avoid what happened with Gomez & Rafalski (walking for nothing), I really wish he would dump Gionta at the deadline and use our prospects youth and other roster players to grab a Center or puck moving Defenseman.

If Lou is done for next season's team, then we haven't improved enough to truly compete.

If he is waiting to grab a Center of Defenseman through trade, then this mini-rebuild project is a work still in progress and I commend him for his efforts.

But unfortunately I really feel that Lou thinks this team is good enough to compete and that by adding Rolston & Holik, along with Brodeur starting like 80 games again, it gives us enough to make a run.

This team IS good enough to compete. It just probably isn't good enough to win it all. But with what Detroit has just accoplished, it may be a difficult task. The D does need to shore up a bit but I think that New Jersey has enough on the front end to overcome the lack of skill on the back end. The Devils should be in contention in the East again this year. Looking at the teams in the East, tell me who you think is head and shoulders above New Jersey. I can see any.

Muttley, this team is almost as talented as the 2003 team.

It aint over yet.

Muttley, this team is almost as talented as the 2003 team.

It aint over yet.

*sigh* no my son, it really isn't. We don't have two sure fire first ballot hall of famers on defense.

Muttley, this team is almost as talented as the 2003 team.

It aint over yet.

I agree on the offense, but Muttleys right, our defense still sucks. Let's face it though, to get the kind of defensemen we need it might take more than Zajac and/or Gio (Sorry Zach).

*sigh* no my son, it really isn't. We don't have two sure fire first ballot hall of famers on defense.

Bryce Salvador isnt a HOF'er???

:laugh:

Bryce Salvador isnt a HOF'er???

:laugh:

He may well be if he leads us to 5 straight Stanley Cups......but anyway, I hate, hate, hate agreeing with Muttley, but we need to upgrade the d-corps. I think J-Bouw is the guy we need, but so many other teams will target him.

He may well be if he leads us to 5 straight Stanley Cups......but anyway, I hate, hate, hate agreeing with Muttley, but we need to upgrade the d-corps. I think J-Bouw is the guy we need, but so many other teams will target him.

Would you trade Zach for him? Maybe we can fleece Martin with a Greene, Zajac, 1st kind of trade. Lou has adressed our offensive needs, I'm confident he'll make a move for a defensemen.

Would you trade Zach for him? Maybe we can fleece Martin with a Greene, Zajac, 1st kind of trade.

WE could fleece him for that. Flo Rida has been really idiotic in their last two trades....the Luongo and the Jokinen deal, we may as well get in on that piece of pie.

I don't see how Holik and Rolston would figure in to a mini-rebuild

Just Rolston. He's a young 35.

Zubrus, Rolston, Salvador and (unfortunately) Vishnevski have already been signed, or are now signed to contracts that are at least 3 years or more. To me, that's part of a mini-rebuild, as opposed to the 1-year band-aid, quick fixes like that have given us Rachunek, Asham and now Holik.

This is how Lou feels about Rolston from Gulitti's blog:

"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."

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

And if Holik is solid this season, I can see Lou offering another 1 or 2 year contract where he can perhaps retire here.

First things first though.

WE could fleece him for that. Flo Rida has been really idiotic in their last two trades....the Luongo and the Jokinen deal, we may as well get in on that piece of pie.

And we better do the deal fast, before Jacques Martin wakes up from his stupor.

AND GET NATHAN HORTON TOO LOU! THIS IS THE CROSSROADS OF THE DEVILS FRANCHISE!

the defense was not taken care of, there will still be no scoring save for the occasional bambi and martin goal. the offense, while larger and somewhat improved i still dont see them as a threat. that is something sorely sorely missing. rolston will slightly improve it, but herf will prolly chip in 13 or so. i dont really consider that a huge factor unless theyre on the pp....which he prolly wont see much time with. the defense still sucks balls. sorry.

the defense was not taken care of, there will still be no scoring save for the occasional bambi and martin goal. the offense, while larger and somewhat improved i still dont see them as a threat. that is something sorely sorely missing. rolston will slightly improve it, but herf will prolly chip in 13 or so. i dont really consider that a huge factor unless theyre on the pp....which he prolly wont see much time with. the defense still sucks balls. sorry.

Your approach to this years Free Agency would have been...?

left i totally agree with you but i cant state my opinion on the forum without being called at troll.. i think our signings are mediocre. Compaired to the names that are out there we did horrible signing holik and im tired of hearing about how we did with him in the past... We signed 2 men that are over 35.. we dropped the ball. Its also so funny that you say we cant clear the puck for our lives i have been saying this to my friends for years. i cant even count how many times we have been bit in the butt in the playoffs for not clearing the puck.. As for the poll i cant understand how more people are happy about how we did .... with this roster we will not make the 3rd round of playoffs

You know only 4 out of 30 teams make the third round right? It's not that easy, so saying something like that isn't really going out on a limb or anything. We had 99 points last year and lost to a team that owned us and only us. We probably could have one around if the matchup was better. Therefore we've added to our team and if anything we should be better than last year. All the while PIT, NYR and PHI have all pretty much stayed the same. We will be a better team than last year and I guarantee we get another defensmen before the 08/09 season starts.

Your approach to this years Free Agency would have been...?

different
except id still sign rolston, i am glad hes back. he will help, but theres only so much he can do.

Fellas, it's July 2nd. There's so much time to improve the team. Be patient.

Fellas, it's July 2nd. There's so much time to improve the team. Be patient.

It doesn't matter what today's date is, some of us fear that Lou is done for this offseason and thinks that all we needed was Rolston & Holik.

Fellas, it's July 2nd. There's so much time to improve the team. Be patient.

i fully agree, but the ufa pool gets less and less appealing. its pretty obvious that with all the players lou has and how theres still the defense to attend to, theyll be some trades made. i just dont have patience for this crap.

It doesn't matter what today's date is, some of us fear that Lou is done for this offseason and thinks that all we needed was Rolston & Holik.

a disturbing thought

i fully agree, but the ufa pool gets less and less appealing. its pretty obvious that with all the players lou has and how theres still the defense to attend to, theyll be some trades made. i just dont have patience for this crap.

It was obvious from yesterday that Lou wasn't going to be throwing ridiculous cash at defensemen. Wade Redden will become the wipping boy in NYC with that albatross of a contract. He's been on the decline for 2 years now. I'm estatic that Lou passed on him at that price.

It was obvious from yesterday that Lou wasn't going to be throwing ridiculous cash at defensemen. Wade Redden will become the wipping boy in NYC with that albatross of a contract. He's been on the decline for 2 years now. I'm estatic that Lou passed on him at that price.

oh i find that whole situation hilarious. they sure ****ed themselves. i wasnt one of the few on here that wanted redden. im sure hell do somewhat ok over there, but not as much to make that contract look brilliant.

It was obvious from yesterday that Lou wasn't going to be throwing ridiculous cash at defensemen. Wade Redden will become the wipping boy in NYC with that albatross of a contract. He's been on the decline for 2 years now. I'm estatic that Lou passed on him at that price.

Wasn't Lou quoted saying something about improving the top-4 for the upcoming season. It was from like May or early June. I'm sure someone has that article somewhere.

It was obvious from yesterday that Lou wasn't going to be throwing ridiculous cash at defensemen. Wade Redden will become the wipping boy in NYC with that albatross of a contract. He's been on the decline for 2 years now. I'm estatic that Lou passed on him at that price.

Can't believe he signed Redden to that contract considering the contracts they already have.

Cap Hit:

Lundqvist - 7M
Gomez - 7M
Drury - 7M
Redden - 6.5M
Rosival - 5M

Total = 32.5M

Do they even care about their young/emerging players? Or do they expect the cap to go up to One Hundredy Billion Dollerz!?

Fellas, it's July 2nd. There's so much time to improve the team. Be patient.

But the season it right around the corner!!!!


There's no timeeeeee.. To the bat cave!!

:ghost2:


Let Lou work people... Please... Even though we've been one of the more active teams, we still haven't done enough in 2 days? :shakehead

i believe in lou that he will get a top 4 guy before camp opens up

But the season it right around the corner!!!!


There's no timeeeeee.. To the bat cave!!


http://www.shmoome.org/shmoobig.jpg

It doesn't matter what today's date is, some of us fear that Lou is done for this offseason and thinks that all we needed was Rolston & Holik.

Does anyone on these boards really believe that Lou is oblivious to the fact that our defense sucks? Looking at trades this year (Jokinen,Zidlicky, and Zherdev), we completely have the assets for an upgrade on defense, IMO.

Does anyone on these boards really believe that Lou is oblivious to the fact that our defense sucks? Looking at trades this year (Jokinen,Zidlicky, and Zherdev), we completely have the assets for an upgrade on defense, IMO.

Yah, especially since he said he wanted two top 4 defensemen in the offseason and he hasn't got one yet.

Yah, especially since he said he wanted two top 4 defensemen in the offseason and he hasn't got one yet.

I think he believes Salvador is one. We will trade for another. Promise you.

Lou may wait it out and see who is available come deadline day too. Give the kids a chance to see if they can step up and if not make a trade to a team that's struggling for one.

I think he believes Salvador is one. We will trade for another. Promise you.

We are in trouble then.

We are in trouble then.

Nah, Bryce is a good 2nd pairing stay at homer.

The key is that elusive top 4 puck mover.

Yah, especially since he said he wanted two top 4 defensemen in the offseason and he hasn't got one yet.

It' July 3rd. He addressed our offensive needs, why is everyone convinced he won't address the defense? Because we didn't throw $6.5M at Redden?

Just like everyone was convinced we wouldn't make any big signings.

It' July 3rd. He addressed our offensive needs, why is everyone convinced he won't address the defense? Because we didn't throw $6.5M at Redden?

Just like everyone was convinced we wouldn't make any big signings.

Get out of here, common sense has no place at HFboards.

yes yes and yes, the prices keep getting higher and higher, hueslisi just got a crazy amount of money and d men(Redden 6.5, hainsey 5.1, Finger 3.5 .......sal 2.9 awesome, holik and rolston lets us roll 4 maybe even 5 lines with combos PK AN PP were gonnabe good we just gotta make that d trade now. iF so id sassume wed sign another UFA Im ure Lous got something worked out.

It' July 3rd. He addressed our offensive needs, why is everyone convinced he won't address the defense? Because we didn't throw $6.5M at Redden?

Just like everyone was convinced we wouldn't make any big signings.

I know, I would have been pretty mad if we paid Campbell and Redden that much. I would have rather taken Streit or Hainsey but they got serverly overpaid too. A trade is definitely the best way to get a good puck moving dman and I'm sure Lou feels the same way.

I know, I would have been pretty mad if we paid Campbell and Redden that much. I would have rather taken Streit or Hainsey but they got serverly overpaid too. A trade is definitely the best way to get a good puck moving dman and I'm sure Lou feels the same way.

I would have too, which is why I feel Lou is on the right path this offseason. We have enough foward depth to make a significant trade, I would be very surprised if Lou goes into 08-09 with this roster. Then again, Holik came out of nowhere...

The more I think about it, the more I think Lou has already plug up the holes we had left last season. We needed a strong Center that can also QB our PP and thats Rolston. We needed some more grit down the center and someone else who could take the faceoffs and an agitator, and thats Holik. He even replaces what Brylin can do so we don't really need Brylin back.

Not saying that this change will make us a sudden offensive powerhouse, but it does go a long way to address some of the problems we had offensively.

I think a good #1 D man would really fix our defense problems, but honestly, how many times did Marty keep us to 3 goals or less last season? If we can score 3 goals we can win.

With the Rangers losing Avery, Jagr, and Tyutin, I really don't think they can get under our skin like they did last season. Gomez will still be a threat, but we'll get used to him too and beat them.

They will have another season with new players and their chemistry is going to be all messed up. So thats another plus. We got players that already know our system pretty well and even played with our players. We will be definitely be in better shape than the Rangers this season.

It' July 3rd. He addressed our offensive needs, why is everyone convinced he won't address the defense? Because we didn't throw $6.5M at Redden?

Just like everyone was convinced we wouldn't make any big signings.

hell address the d im glad you see it.

I would have too, which is why I feel Lou is on the right path this offseason. We have enough foward depth to make a significant trade, I would be very surprised if Lou goes into 08-09 with this roster. Then again, Holik came out of nowhere...

The more I think about it, the more I think Lou has already plug up the holes we had left last season. We needed a strong Center that can also QB our PP and thats Rolston. We needed some more grit down the center and someone else who could take the faceoffs and an agitator, and thats Holik. He even replaces what Brylin can do so we don't really need Brylin back.

Not saying that this change will make us a sudden offensive powerhouse, but it does go a long way to address some of the problems we had offensively.

I think a good #1 D man would really fix our defense problems, but honestly, how many times did Marty keep us to 3 goals or less last season? If we can score 3 goals we can win.

With the Rangers losing Avery, Jagr, and Tyutin, I really don't think they can get under our skin like they did last season. Gomez will still be a threat, but we'll get used to him too and beat them.

They will have another season with new players and their chemistry is going to be all messed up. So thats another plus. We got players that already know our system pretty well and even played with our players. We will be definitely be in better shape than the Rangers this season.

Im glad you guys are posting.....you both have it the way i see it, if we know lou theres something up that sleee, and thats cool with me:yo: