Anyone else EXCITED for this season?

Sorry but I just spent a marvelous six hours at a beer garden in Queens. Many pitchers and bratwurst later and I'm here.

Here's why I'm excited about this season for the Devils:

1. I'm EXCITED to see what our prospects look like. Bergfors should finally get that top-6 look we've been waiting for. Pelley will finally have a role to fill. Guys like Vasayunov, Halischuk, Corrente, Frazee, Cormier, maybe even Eckford or Fraser will get LONG looks at camp. Should be exciting. Plus I can't wait for a full year of PL3.

2. I'm EXCITED to see Zajac, Parise, Oduya and Martin continue to progress and get better and better.

3. I'm EXCITED that Lou has chosen a wise path with the salary cap. Leaves us with awesome options next year AND at the trade deadline. I expect a big deal if/when we're in contention.

4. I'm EXCITED that this could be the year that our man, our LEGEND breaks the shut-out record.

5. I'm EXCITED that Rolston should be getting top-6 time. That shot is ****ing filthy and will make many a goalie/shin pad unhappy.

6. I'm EXCITED to see Chico gorge himself further.

7. I'm just always excited to see Elias play.

I'm not 100% unconditional in my love for the Devils, and I will miss Rupp and Madden badly, Gionta semi-badly ($5M LOL). I don't think it'll be a cup year, but 29 teams a year don't win. I just can't stand the hardcore negativity. We're in a better place than a lot of teams.
Let's go Devils!

Hell yeah NSP.

Just cause Lou didn't break the bank on July 1st doesn't mean we won't have fun watching our team.

Bring on the young guns!

Let's go Devils!

I'm always excited for the season. Plus I'm excited to see the young players get a chance. Whats also nice is since we aren't signing anyone in the offseason we will have space for a possible acquisition at the deadline if need be.

It will be refreshing to see some new faces on the team.

I love when teams bring in young talent its like a changing of the guard. Its fun to watch the rookies grow game by game and it needs to be done in the world of sports. It seems to me its becoming more and more common to see a team with a young group win championships then the teams spending all there money.

Should be a blast

hell yea, I'm more excited for this year then any year before

4. I'm EXCITED that this could be the year that our man, our LEGEND breaks the shut-out record.


**** the record, it will happen.......im waiting for SO vs. Nashville, SJ, and oilers to complete having at least against each team

I had 2 jerseys I wore regularly: Madden, Gionta.

I was thinking about buying a Rupp one this year.

FML.

However, we have a solid core, and a decent group of prospects. The question is, is what we have in the reserves enough to not only fill the void left by recent departures, but is it enough to put us over the top? I know that we will not go over the top, this year, but we could develop in the next 2-3 years. That however, is a problem because we don't have much time to rebuild and develop and put a solid Cup contender around Marty before his time is up.

When Lou hired Sutter, they said they had a "Five year plan to win the Cup"...well that's been set back 2 years....2 years we really can't make up. So can we get a 3 year plan in the works?

Which begs the question...who the ****'s our coach? I'm confident now because we don't have a coach, so that means Lemaire isn't our coach. That's all I'll say about that.

I'm very excited for this season, I've been disappointed that we haven't had a rookie break in with a bang since Zajac (or arguably Clarkson). Hopefully Bergfors can pull it off. I want to see Corrente win a spot on the blue line and start kicking ass and taking names. I want to see Parise tear up the league. I want to see Elias and Rolston turn the second line into a scary scoring threat to compliment the formidable ZZ Pops. I want the optimism of the beginning of the season, when every hockey fan believes his favourite team has a chance at the Cup if they work hard enough.

Yes!:yo:

Im wicked excited just to see the rookies who stay with the team the whole year and probably the 3-5 others who get cups of coffee

im excited to watch the devils play this season because i enjoy it

but im not gonna get my hopes up by any means for a cup run

$10 says the rookie with the biggest impact is someone no one thinks about from now or suspects.

I love when teams bring in young talent its like a changing of the guard. Its fun to watch the rookies grow game by game and it needs to be done in the world of sports. It seems to me its becoming more and more common to see a team with a young group win championships then the teams spending all there money.

Should be a blast

True dat!:handclap: There will be a few growing pains I'm sure, but our core is solid enough to help guide them through the season. I'm excited about this year, and even more excited for the season after that after the young guys get a full season under their belt.

Sorry but I just spent a marvelous six hours at a beer garden in Queens. Many pitchers and bratwurst later and I'm here.

Here's why I'm excited about this season for the Devils:

1. I'm EXCITED to see what our prospects look like. Bergfors should finally get that top-6 look we've been waiting for. Pelley will finally have a role to fill. Guys like Vasayunov, Halischuk, Corrente, Frazee, Cormier, maybe even Eckford or Fraser will get LONG looks at camp. Should be exciting. Plus I can't wait for a full year of PL3.

2. I'm EXCITED to see Zajac, Parise, Oduya and Martin continue to progress and get better and better.

3. I'm EXCITED that Lou has chosen a wise path with the salary cap. Leaves us with awesome options next year AND at the trade deadline. I expect a big deal if/when we're in contention.

4. I'm EXCITED that this could be the year that our man, our LEGEND breaks the shut-out record.

5. I'm EXCITED that Rolston should be getting top-6 time. That shot is ****ing filthy and will make many a goalie/shin pad unhappy.

6. I'm EXCITED to see Chico gorge himself further.

7. I'm just always excited to see Elias play.

I'm not 100% unconditional in my love for the Devils, and I will miss Rupp and Madden badly, Gionta semi-badly ($5M LOL). I don't think it'll be a cup year, but 29 teams a year don't win. I just can't stand the hardcore negativity. We're in a better place than a lot of teams.
Let's go Devils!

These. Cant wait for the season to kick off.

For the first time in a long time I'm excited going into training camp with the infusion of youth that we're scheduled to have. Our core veterans are a new group than what they were 1 or even 2 years ago. But they're solid.

J-Lang is a solid captain and leader, he's grown from a kid who followed Nieuwendyk to a leader in the Nieu mold.

Elias has been an elite left winger for 10 years, he's overcome an adversity most of us wouldn't know, and still played at a high level. He's the face of our franchise other than Marty whose face is hidden behind a mask anyways.

Parise, sure is entering his 4th year as a player in the NHL. But he's increased his points total in every season and last season became a force in the NHL, he's always a competitor and always wants to win. He'll have to assume a leadership role on this team, and he's ready for it. He's talked the most since Brent left, shows to me that he's ready to take that step in the locker room and become a leader.

Zubrus, he's been around in the league for 13 years. He's seen some highs and some lows, but he's been around long enough to impart that knowledge on the youngsters.

Rolston, Stanley Cup champion, been around for over 15 years, 1,000 games played. Had an off year last year, but that ankle injury was a tough one. Even Crosby took some time to recover from that. He should be a lot better next season, hopefully.

Zajac, he's the youngest of our elder statesman. But his maturity is beyond his years, and he turned into one of the finer two-way centers in the league last season as evidenced by his finishing in the Selke trophy.

Martin, at 28 years of age is along with White the elder statesman of our blue line. He's a heady player who gives it his all. He's a top 15 defenseman in our league and keeps playing with a poise that is comforting.

White, 32 years old, two time Cup champion. Not the same player he used to be, but he's still solid in the line up and brings a bit of a snarl. It's too bad that eye injury happened to him.

Oduya, he's entering his fourth season now. Last year, he grew by leaps and bounds and has really earned his contract. Losing him would have been far worse for us. A lot worse than losing Gio or Dog.

Sure we still have older forwards left, but we're finally using our youth and the infusion of youth coming in the future is a godsend.

There's a lot to look forward to, there'll be some ups and downs, but, that's what happens. It's a process.

That was my opinion earlier.

You know what I'm excited for, NSP?

the return of VISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3546/sutter5yr5.jpg

where is it?

Originally posted by Game Breaker
$10 says the rookie with the biggest impact is someone no one thinks about from now or suspects.

I'm gonna go ahead and say its Matt Halischuk. I'm thinking he will settle in on the 4th line maybe getting 3rd line minutes when Shanny needs some time to rest. Can he play LW?

Also what do you guys think the chances of Cormier making the big club? Obviously our big deficiency is at center.

E
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I'M
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As usual, the demise of the New Jersey Devils has been prematurely predicted. As usual, they will be wrong. The only difference is, this year it's many Devils fans making this prediction instead of Rangers fans, Flyers fans, ESPN, etc......

Why the **** is it typing slowly again? Pisses me right the **** off! :rant:

Know what I’m excited for?
1) The day prospect camp begins
2) The day the schedule comes out
3) The day I pick the games I’m guaranteed to go to (hockey coaching gets in the way of picking most mid-Nov to mid-Feb games :( )
4) The day training camp begins
5) The day of the first preseason game – TELEVISE IT LOU!!!!
6) The day we play…for real.
The off-season ****ing blows massive donkey dick. Compound this with the fact we have so many new faces coming in, I would say there is more anxiety than true worry. Don Lamoriello does not consider this a rebuilding year.

Rangers – get Gaborik but who will pass him the puck? If we score 2 on Lundqvist we could maybe win the season series this time around.

Penguins – can never underestimate Crosby and Malkin. perhaps the only Atlantic team that can give us consistent headaches all 6 matches. but how do they replace Gill and Scuderi on the blueline?

Flyers – they got Pronger, but we got small guys and we know he can’t keep his elbows down. the games will always be close between us and them…and I have a feeling that will not change.

Islanders – pounding headaches, last minute goals, defenseman tripping backwards…these guys were pains in the ass because they just worked their tails off. same coach, couple of new young players and I expect no different.

We play in a ridiculously tough division, but our top forwards are true workhorses. Parise never gives up, Langs always plays with a chip on his shoulder, TravTrav is excellent on both ends of the rink, Elias is the skill, Rolston is the bomb – with a healthier ankle, and Zubrus (like him or hate him) can be a beast on the puck.

I’m anxious to see what the new blood can bring to our team. More speed? More exuberance? More feistiness and a never-give-up attitude?

What really REALLY sucks is that it is July 3rd …………

I had 2 jerseys I wore regularly: Madden, Gionta.

I was thinking about buying a Rupp one this year.


Consider buying a Pandolfo jersey?






I kid, I still love you Jay. Just, bounce back this year please.

You know what I'm excited for, NSP?

the return of VISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3546/sutter5yr5.jpg

where is it?

I know I know, I've just spent too much of my time drinking and pimping and not enough time locked in my apartment drawing cartoons about Vishnevski. I'm sorry, I promise I'll get them done soon.

Ill rank the post lockout seasons in order of which I was most excited about.

1. 05/06: 1st season After the Lockout!!!!
2. 08/09: I predicted Parise and Patty to have breakout seasons and wanted to see Rolston and Herf again.
3. 09/10: Im interested to see how all these young players will do.
4. 06/07: After the strong finish the previous season, I was expected huge things this season.
5. 07/08: Losing Gomer and Raffy and adding Rachunek, Vishnevski and Zubrus didn't excite me all that much, and this season turned out to be one of the most dull seasons in a very long time.

I'm extremely excited, as always.

This year I'll be following SEL INTENTLY as well.

I'm gonna go ahead and say its Matt Halischuk. I'm thinking he will settle in on the 4th line maybe getting 3rd line minutes when Shanny needs some time to rest. Can he play LW?

Also what do you guys think the chances of Cormier making the big club? Obviously our big deficiency is at center.
Inevitable, for the reason you specified.

I love when teams bring in young talent its like a changing of the guard. Its fun to watch the rookies grow game by game and it needs to be done in the world of sports. It seems to me its becoming more and more common to see a team with a young group win championships then the teams spending all there money.

Should be a blast
Agree completely, funny while I was watching the 2000 ECF Game 7 I was just thinking about how most of the players that were on the 2000 team played in the NHL last year, 9 years later. The ones that didn't: Stevens, Daneyko, Malakhov, Mogilny, McKay, Kelly, Brylin

It's young teams with legs that win championships, not everyone is the 2002 Red Wings. At the very least, while next year won't be a championship year, it should prepare a lot of the youngsters for when we can make a run in 2010-2011.

Jesus Christ the future looks good doesnt it?

this wont be a contending year but hey all the better. wait till we finally get Tedenby into the roster 2 seasons from now and will have Pelly, P3L, Bergfors etc.... all with a seasons already under thier belts. :yo::yo:

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders?

I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders?

I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

I think you need to separate the feelings excited for the upcoming season and expecting a Stanley Cup. I don't think anyone here genuinely expects us to win it in 09-10. Lets face it, the Devils have a very poor defensive corp and in my opinion even though I like Paul Martin he isn't even close to a #1 dman. But with that being said I am excited to see Bergfors finally get a real shot. Corrente will be given every opportunity to make the team. And most importantly we will see what Zajac will blossom into. He will either keep growing and become an even bigger offensive weapon or plateau and be a really nice #2 center from here on forward.

Stanley Cups are won in seasons like this coming up for the Devils. No, they won't win it next year but they will be developing the core that will be in place to work towards that goal in the future. Now if we can just get some stud top pairing defensive prospects our future will get even brighter.

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders?

I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

because I'm to poor to be a STH I guess I don't count as a real fan? I'm still going to go to 8 to 10 games. And I'm pretty sure a lot who have posted here are season ticket holders or at least go to several games a year.

I can't imagine any fan of a team not being excited about an upcoming season. I was excited when Doug Carpenter was coach and we were winning 25 games a year, I don't know why anyone wouldn't be excited about this season.

because I'm to poor to be a STH I guess I don't count as a real fan? I'm still going to go to 8 to 10 games. And I'm pretty sure a lot who have posted here are season ticket holders or at least go to several games a year.

No that wasn't my point at all. My point is, the people I'm talking to who are sitting in the stands aren't excited about the loss of two fan favorites and the lack of any improvement at the moment.

My family and I share season tickets and myself and all the ones I talked to are excited for the season but it is a different excitement. It's excitement for the change and infusion of youth we need. I have been excited for the past 4 seasons as well, thinking every year we had a shot at the cup. Only to lose in the playoffs every year way earlier than I expected. How many times do you need to run into that brick wall before you realize things need to change? Lou is making those changes finally. This season I have no thoughts this year that we have a shot at the cup, but this change is necessary and who knows, with the bar set lower, maybe the surprise this year will go the other way finally.

My family and I share season tickets and myself and all the ones I talked to are excited for the season but it is a different excitement. It's excitement for the change and infusion of youth we need. I have been excited for the past 4 seasons as well, thinking every year we had a shot at the cup. Only to lose in the playoffs every year way earlier than I expected. How many times do you need to run into that brick wall before you realize things need to change? Lou is making those changes finally. This season I have no thoughts this year that we have a shot at the cup, but this change is necessary and who knows, with the bar set lower, maybe the surprise this year will go the other way finally.

I honestly thought we had a real shot at going deep last year. I think we dropped the ball not suring up the defense at the deadline.

I understand the idea of being excited about the infusion of youth, but the reality is our youth just isn't that great and what we do have, doesn't address any of this teams immediate needs (i.e. Defense and Center).

With these up comping changes, at best we stay stagnate. I don't think that is a great situation to be in.

I honestly thought we had a real shot at going deep last year. I think we dropped the ball not suring up the defense at the deadline.

I understand the idea of being excited about the infusion of youth, but the reality is our youth just isn't that great and what we do have, doesn't address any of this teams immediate needs (i.e. Defense and Center).

With these up comping changes, at best we stay stagnate. I don't think that is a great situation to be in.

I don't think we stagnate in the sense that either these kids work out and gain more experience or they fail and Lou realizes we need to move on with others. If you mean stagnate as far as having a chance to win, again in my opinion, the past 4 years we have been going backwards. If anything, these years remind me of the 4 years after we won the cup in 95, huge failures given the talent on the ice. And what helped turn us around, giving some kids a chance. And again, none of them where blue chip prospects, White wasn't, Gomez was a high first round pick, Madden and Rafalski were undrafted players. All key contributors to a solid core. I have no idea if any of these changes will work but clearly what has been going on the past few years wasn't.

hell yea, I'm more excited for this year then any year before

Me too. It's going to be awesome with a few rookies on the team.:nod:

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders?

I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

I am. I did 42 Devils regular season games last year to boot.

My breakdown of the upcoming year is as follows.

Parise/Elias/Rolston will all only get better and be determined to win more and more.

White/Oduya/Mottau have some of the best +/- in the league.

And two final words that seen to get dropped out a lot here: Martin Brodeur.

And two final words that seen to get dropped out a lot here: Martin Broduer.

His name is Brodeur, not Broduer.:facepalm:

His name is Brodeur, not Broduer.:facepalm:

:facepalm:

I woke up less then an hour ago and I'm already at work. :(

I'm really excited to see Clarkson get more minutes.

Seing a new wave of youngsters is refreshing and I can't wait to see Parise, Elias, Zajac, Langs, Roslton and Clarkson have more icetime and responsibilitys. I can't wait to see wich of our prospects will make the jump to the NHL and I can't wait to see Tedenby and Josefson next season as well. If Cormier doesn't make the team this year, I think he'll be with us next year. So basically, we'd be adding both Swedes and Cormier for sure next year... FOR FREE !!!

We are turning another corner in our franchise and guys like Pandolfo, Madden, Gionta, etc... are/will be out, so let's bring new faces.

Bergfors
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hxBuvxzvvVE/SNLLIXQ_G_I/AAAAAAAAA-Q/ErslEV1LWzw/s320/Bergfors.jpg

+

Cormier
http://media.therecord.topscms.com/images/23/6c/03ac2d5d403d9ed768903549b0d2.jpeg

+

Tedenby
http://www.nyheterna.net/var/ostran/storage/images/nyheterna/sporten/hv71_tar_tillbaka_tedenby/layout1_1_pdnyctedenbypnm_jpg/3752912-1-swe-SE/layout1_1_pdnyctedenbypnm_jpg_article_large.jpg

+

Josefson
http://cdn.nhl.com/mapleleafs/images/upload/2009/05/JacobJosefson280_may29.jpg

+

Corrente
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/041Q8Yb5khcnI/610x.jpg

I am super excited about next season. I can't wait to see the young guys finally get some playing time and I'm excited to see what they can do with it.

Originally posted by Classic Devil
I'm really excited to see Clarkson get more minutes.

By far the thing I'm most excited about. A 20 goal season from him would be an amazing thing. Lets see a little more creativity this year but don't throw away the clarkaround, that's the most potent weapon in your arsenal and funny as hell every time you attempt it.

Great post/thread by all. All the doom/gloom on the forum board was getting rediculous. Everyones pissed we diidn't keep up with the jone's and we're screwed.

Can't wait to read TG when we have our camps.

I think we should over pay for old dudes who use to score, and not build are team on youth. I want to see some grey hair, dam u lou!!!!

Buttt da Rangors got da hypothetical 60 goalz scorer Goborick.!

I cannot wait to see our young guys play.

I don't think any Devil fan cares all that much about not being active on 7/1....But by the same token you can't loose 2 veteran forwards and not do anything about it.


EDIT:
And all this supposed youth we have...Should have been brought up for stints last year....During injury last year Leach was brought up....Does that tell you something?

Lou signed Shanny midseason last year, why not bring up Bergfors? Tell you something? There was plenty of opportunity while we had the vets--- November callups: Tallackson and Davis...Does that tell you something?

It tells me all the prospect we are clamering for did have the confidence of management --At least last season they didn't -- Our prospects are be overrated by 10fold.

im pretty amped to finally see what the young guys can do

I think it's a year too late, but it'll be nice to get a good draft pick for once.

Is it september yet????? I can't wait to watch football for 8 hours a day on sunday and see the youngsters on our team play.

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders?

I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

here is one.

true Devils fans are ALWAYS excited about a new season. i wouldnt be surprised if more are anxious or nervous than normal, but everyone is excited.

Who isn't excited to see what a healthy Bergfors can bring?

or a young Corrente on defense?

Who isn't excited to watch young guys (ie Halischuk) come up throughout the year...and what if they STICK???

Who isn't excited to hear about Tedenby and Josefson in the SEL this coming season?

I'll admit...I'm nervous. We don't have our own visual access to Prospect Camp and Training Camp, so we can't make our own, informed opinions on our young players. So this doesn't help. (I know we have TG, but it would be awesome to see it with my own eyes)

I think we are entering a scary, albeit exciting, time around the franchise. We are moving away from some cornerstones that don't fit the mold or got too expensive and letting our youth FINALLY take over.

When was the last time we had as many rookies on the team - 1999-2000 (Gomez, White, Madden, Rafalski)?

We had a core then and bolstered it with guys who didn't know what the 4 previous years of losing were all about. They brought skill and determination that was integral to winning that Stanley Cup.

Oh, and Marty was in net then too...

I am a STH and very excited for the next season. I am not so sure why everyone wants Lou's head, the overwhelming evidence is that many free agency signings on july 1 are not just poor value, they turn into a multi-season burden on the salary cap. I think Lou is being prudent, give the younger players a look this year and preparing for a potentially lower cap next year. I am very excited to see some of our younger guys play, the promise of youth never gets old.

The funny part is, players are only part of the picture for next season. Lou's most important signing this off-season hasn't taken place. Head coach will have a large say in if we continue to play an up-tempo, more aggressive forechecking style. If we continue that...the games should be as exciting as last year.

I am a STH and very excited for the next season. I am not so sure why everyone wants Lou's head, the overwhelming evidence is that many free agency signings on july 1 are not just poor value, they turn into a multi-season burden on the salary cap. I think Lou is being prudent, give the younger players a look this year and preparing for a potentially lower cap next year. I am very excited to see some of our younger guys play, the promise of youth never gets old.

The funny part is, players are only part of the picture for next season. Lou's most important signing this off-season hasn't taken place. Head coach will have a large say in if we continue to play an up-tempo, more aggressive forechecking style. If we continue that...the games should be as exciting as last year.
Who we sign as coach will for me determine whether or not this offseason was a success. So far I love it. But if he brings in a Lemaire or Carbonneau I'm going to be very disappointed.

I'm extremely excited.. It's about time the team goes in a new direction.. The old route hasn't led us very far the last couple years, has it?

From what Lou said, we should see bigger roles, and more ice time, given to our key players

For a fan base that complains a lot about the "bad" FA contracts given out the last couple years, many seemed to have a problem with Lou not throwing out money this offseason

Out with the old and in with the new.. This team needed something different

Who we sign as coach will for me determine whether or not this offseason was a success. So far I love it. But if he brings in a Lemaire or Carbonneau I'm going to be very disappointed.

See I'm the opposite. I want an experienced coach to step in like Carbs or Lemaire, especially with all the youth on the team.

See I'm the opposite. I want an experienced coach to step in like Carbs or Lemaire, especially with all the youth on the team.
I don't mind experience. I don't want trap.

Edit: no, that's not true. I just want a coach who will grow with the kids. Look at what Bylsma did in Pittsburgh - I wrote him off because I thought Crosby and Malkin would walk all over him, but he's a great coach. I want Haviland or Arniel.

I'm extremely excited.. It's about time the team goes in a new direction.. The old route hasn't led us very far the last couple years, has it?

From what Lou said, we should see bigger roles, and more ice time, given to our key players

For a fan base that complains a lot about the "bad" FA contracts given out the last couple years, many seemed to have a problem with Lou not throwing out money this offseason

Out with the old and in with the new.. This team needed something different

People on here just like to complain. They will find anything to complain about. Once we bring in our next coach there will be a lot of complaining too. Then when the schedule is announced we will complain. Then when the season starts we will complain about who made our roster and the lineup. And it goes on and on.

I don't mind experience. I don't want trap.

Edit: no, that's not true. I just want a coach who will grow with the kids. Look at what Bylsma did in Pittsburgh - I wrote him off because I thought Crosby and Malkin would walk all over him, but he's a great coach. I want Haviland or Arniel.

I think this is going to a future movement. Coaches will be getting younger and younger because they'll connect with a team - not boss them. 100% of the time a team has fun and believes in each other, they'll play better. Look at Elias as the shining example of a Devil - when he has fun, he scores like no tomorrow.

See I'm the opposite. I want an experienced coach to step in like Carbs or Lemaire, especially with all the youth on the team.

Lemaire has alot of experience but isn't the kind of coach I want my youngsters around cause we have the tools to be a "run and gun" team more so then a "trapping" team IMO. Carbonneau has about 2 years of experience as a head coach, so he's not really all that experienced if you ask me but one person i'd like to see and fits the mold you're talking about would be Dave Tippett. He did wonders with youngsters like Loui Eriksson, James Neal, Matt Niskanen and utilised Brunnstrom perfectly IMO cause he didn't "give" him the ice-time.... he had to earn it. He's the perfect fit.... experience and works wonders with kids.


DAVE TIPPETT FOR HEAD COACH !!!

Who we sign as coach will for me determine whether or not this offseason was a success.

This...the team's gone halfway towards a '99 style remodeling with getting rid of a lot of the expendable old guard and having prospects ready to contribute. Tippett would be a pipe dream but I don't expect it, same with Koivu for that matter (though I wouldn't want him on a long-term deal).

Just don't ruin it now by bringing back Jacques or another trap coach. And get Zajac signed too - then I'll get excited.

one person i'd like to see and fits the mold you're talking about would be Dave Tippett.

I think I read on TG's blog that Tippett is not a candidate for the Devils' head coach position. I was disappointed, I wouldn't have minded that. I'm holding out hope for Haviland.

Lemaire has alot of experience but isn't the kind of coach I want my youngsters around cause we have the tools to be a run and gun team more so then a "trapping" team IMO. Carbonneau has about 2 years of experience as a head coach, so he's not really all that experienced if you ask me but one person i'd like to see and fits the mold you're talking about would be Dave Tippett. He did wonders with youngsters like Loui Eriksson, James Neal, Matt Niskanen and utilised Brunnstrom perfectly IMO cause he didn't "give" him the ice-time.... he had to earn it.


DAVE TIPPETT FOR HEAD COACH !!!

I wouldn't mind Tippett either. Only guy I don't want is Therrien or a rookie head coach.

I wouldn't mind Tippett either. Only guy I don't want is Therrien or a rookie head coach.

What about someone with AHL experience? Many teams have been successful going that route. I agree though, no retread coaches. Time to get some new blood.

I wouldn't mind Tippett either. Only guy I don't want is Therrien or a rookie head coach.

Or Mike Keenan. Lou, stay away from Keenan.

What about someone with AHL experience? Many teams have been successful going that route. I agree though, no retread coaches. Time to get some new blood.

No I want a guy thats been a head coach in the NHL.

Or Mike Keenan. Lou, stay away from Keenan.

yeah dont want him either. But I don't think Lou would ever bring him in.

I usually don't get all that excited until around the middle of august. Right now i want the devils to finalize the coaching situation and Lou to get a solid back up for Brodeur. Once august comes then I will get excited and I will be pumped to see the young blood come to camp and grab the spots that NJ is opening up for them.

$10 says the rookie with the biggest impact is someone no one thinks about from now or suspects.
Zharkov is gonna light it up! :yo:

Just curious... for the all the "EXCITED"; how many of you are season ticket holders? I haven't spoke to many season ticket holders that were "EXCITED" about this season.

Add me to the list (though I split the year with someone else, so for math purposes if you want to put me down as a .5excited that's fine with me :sarcasm:)

I am very excited; I wish we could just fast forward life to training camp.

I really hope we get Haviland. That in my mind, will guarantee our youth movement.

If I see a coach like Keenan, Therrien, Carbs, etc...I will not be excited about the team.

I really hope we get Haviland. That in my mind, will guarantee our youth movement.

If I see a coach like Keenan, Therrien, Carbs, etc...I will not be excited about the team.

Yeah, Haviland! Middletown, NJ native!

Yeah, Haviland! Middletown, NJ native!

No homesickness or any of that nonsense. Just hockey. I like Haviland and hope Lou chooses him, but who can predict what Lou will do?

I honestly thought we had a real shot at going deep last year. I think we dropped the ball not suring up the defense at the deadline.

we got Havelid FML.....

we got Havelid FML.....
No one was available. We had no trade assets.

No one was available. We had no trade assets.

JORDAN LEOPOLD Former Partner of Paul Martin @ U of Minn was moved on deadline day


MATHIEU SCHNEIDER for picks


CHRIS CAMPOLI

James Wisniewski would have been a good pick up

JORDAN LEOPOLD Former Partner of Paul Martin @ U of Minn was moved on deadline day


MATHIEU SCHNEIDER for picks


CHRIS CAMPOLI
And sucked as much as Havelid. What's your point?

You seriously want Schneider or Campoli? None of these players are a difference maker. We need a Kaberle, a Souray, a Niedermayer, not a Havelid, Leopold, or Morris.

JORDAN LEOPOLD Former Partner of Paul Martin @ U of Minn was moved on deadline day


MATHIEU SCHNEIDER for picks

As much as I like Leopold( I think I'm the only one in the NHL who really likes him) he wouldn't have made a difference as far as our postseason success went. Put it this way we didn't lose in the first round because of Havlid.

HELL YA can't wait till next season!

And sucked as much as Havelid. What's your point?

You seriously want Schneider or Campoli? None of these players are a difference maker. We need a Kaberle, a Souray, a Niedermayer, not a Havelid, Leopold, or Morris.

Look what those players did after they were traded

Campoli 13 points in 25 games from the D
2008-09 OTT 25 5 8 13 +4

Mathieu Schneider 17 points in 23 games from the D
2008-09 MON 23 5 12 17 -2


Yeah I would have liked that.

Look what those players did after they were traded

Campoli 13 points in 25 games from the D
2008-09 OTT 25 5 8 13 +4

Mathieu Schneider 17 points in 23 games from the D
2008-09 MON 23 5 12 17 -2


Yeah I would have liked that.
I'm sorry, Jim, but I simply don't believe that replacing Havelid with Campoli (who would have cost us taking Comrie and losing the Josefson pick) or Schneider (who would have cost us Gelinas and was -2 in 2 playoff games with no point production) would have made a meaningful difference. We need a REAL defenseman, not a facsimile of one.

I'm excited for every season. Its the Devils.

I'm sorry, Jim, but I simply don't believe that replacing Havelid with Campoli (who would have cost us taking Comrie and losing the Josefson pick) or Schneider (who would have cost us Gelinas and was -2 in 2 playoff games with no point production) would have made a meaningful difference. We need a REAL defenseman, not a facsimile of one.


You would have had your #2 center and a puck mover that scored nearly as many points as any of our D in less than 1/4 of the season.

I believe that would have made the World of difference. Ottawa played better after that trade than they did in the previous 2 seasons.

We on the other hand went on a terrible slump.

You have had your #2 center and a puck mover that scored nearly as many points as any of our D in less than 1/4 of the season.

I believe that would have made the World of difference. Ottawa played better after that trade than they did in the previous 2 seasons.
Because they replaced their coach, not because of Mike ****ing Comrie.

Because they replaced their coach, not because of Mike ****ing Comrie.


we were talking about Campoli -- Who had nearly as many goals as anyone on our D in only 23 games.

we were talking about Campoli -- Who had nearly as many goals as anyone on our D in only 23 games.
If you seriously think Campoli is a big enough improvement over Havelid to actually have put us in the position of winning the cup - which is about all that could justify giving up the Josefson pick - I can't argue with you, because I deny the premise of your argument.

If you seriously think Campoli is a big enough improvement over Havelid to actually have put us in the position of winning the cup - which is about all that could justify giving up the Josefson pick - I can't argue with you, because I deny the premise of your argument.

This mele started based on your claim "No one was available" which clearly wasn't the case...

Winning the Cup? Who the hell knows, but there were players available that could have clearly given us the added dimension we were missing on D

This mele started based on your claim "No one was available" which clearly wasn't the case...

Winning the Cup? Who the hell knows, but there were players available that could have clearly given us the added dimension we were missing on D
Campoli was available, but he's just not good enough! We need a difference maker on the blueline, and none were available. Name a defenseman who moved at the deadline who you actually think would have made the difference.

The only defensemen who have moved since then/been UFA who I think might actually be capable are Pronger and Niedermayer. We're finally getting in the position where going into the future we have trade assets and cap space for acquiring such a defenseman - or someone a tier below, like a Souray or Kaberle - who might actually make us a better hockey team, instead of being a costly sidestep.

I think we could have gotten the best D-man in the history of the NHL, in his prime, and it wouldn't have helped.

There are so many reasons as to why the Devils faltered. It starts at the top. Clearly if the coach isn't focused, neither will the players be.

I think we could have gotten the best D-man in the history of the NHL, in his prime, and it wouldn't have helped.

There are so many reasons as to why the Devils faltered. It starts at the top. Clearly if the coach isn't focused, neither will the players be.
This is also true, Sutter choked.

Chris Campoli. Haha.

Campoli was available, but he's just not good enough! We need a difference maker on the blueline, and none were available. Name a defenseman who moved at the deadline who you actually think would have made the difference.

The only defensemen who have moved since then/been UFA who I think might actually be capable are Pronger and Niedermayer. We're finally getting in the position where going into the future we have trade assets and cap space for acquiring such a defenseman - or someone a tier below, like a Souray or Kaberle - who might actually make us a better hockey team, instead of being a costly sidestep.

That notion is just doesn't make any sense...If we can't get a top 10 D-man simply do nothing??? That doesn't add up.

A costly sidestep??? It was a year we could have made a serious run with a little more help. Was Guerin a costly sidestep for Pittsburgh???

And your complaining about giving up picks....What would we have to give up to get "difference maker".

Put it this way we didn't lose in the first round because of Havlid.

Not if you look at how he let a cross-ice pass go by on the tying goal.

Although I think a healthy Salvador would have made just as much difference in Game 7 as anyone in trade...

This is also true, Sutter choked.

That's what I'm saying here. The 'trade-deadline' thing is a moot argument, it's completely irrelevant to the causes of the early playoff exit.

If we had the most wins in franchise history, there is no excuses about the quality of players. I know the regular season and playoffs are different, blah blah blah, but I still think there isn't too much wrong with the core. And this is why I'm excited for next year.

I'll say it again. Martin Brodeur.

Chris Campoli. Haha.

5 goals 17 points +4 in 25 games for Ottawa

Our best D had 7 ALL season

That notion is just doesn't make any sense...If we can't get a top 10 D-man simply do nothing??? That doesn't add up.

Yes, it does make sense. Why give up prospects/draft picks or especially roster players that have proven they can win hockey games? I'd rather do nothing at the deadline and 'roll the dice' with what we have.

It's the same reason we didn't trade Gio this year. The writing was on the wall with him that he was leaving, we could have traded him for something else - but why when we were winning games?

That notion is just doesn't make any sense...If we can't get a top 10 D-man simply do nothing??? That doesn't add up.

A costly sidestep??? It was a year we could have made a serious run with a little more help. Was Guerin a costly sidestep for Pittsburgh???

And your complaining about giving up picks....What would we have to give up to get "difference maker".

A difference maker would be worth the price we pay, instead of giving a bloody first round pick for Chris ****ing Campoli. Pronger would have been worth what the Flyers paid to acquire him - but we don't have their depth of assets.

Jim, we DID it your way at the deadline. We acquired the guy we felt was the best D-man available, and we did it for very, very cheap. And he played fine... and made not a bit of difference.

[...] And he played fine... and made not a bit of difference.

Ironically, as fate would have it, for the same reasons as Sutter.

No homesickness or any of that nonsense. Just hockey. I like Haviland and hope Lou chooses him, but who can predict what Lou will do?

Very easy.
http://i42.tinypic.com/mimihe.jpg

Don't do it Lou.

Very easy.
http://i42.tinypic.com/mimihe.jpg

Don't do it Lou.

I'm literally hearing Lou say "In my mind, Jacques is the right guy for the young players we have".:(

Jim, we DID it your way at the deadline. We acquired the guy we felt was the best D-man available, and we did it for very, very cheap. And he played fine... and made not a bit of difference.

We did it my way???? With Havelid? Havelid was best D-man availabe at the deadline? He played fine? Niclas Havelid D 15 0 4 4 -2

This is starting to feel like bizaro-world.

We did it my way???? With Havelid? Havelid was best D-man availabe at the deadline? He played fine? Niclas Havelid D 15 0 4 4 -2

This is starting to feel like bizaro-world.
Havelid is about equal to Leopold or Morris or Schneider! They're all the same tier of second-rate player!

Havelid is about equal to Leopold or Morris or Schneider! They're all the same tier of second-rate player!

Each one of the players you named Produced Significantly more than Havelid did in 08-09....Significantly More

Morris Only had 1 more point in 08-09 But from the time he was traded he had 8 points in 15 games for his new team.


Your credibility meter is dropping faster the Devils Hockey’s Future Prospect Rankings

Each one of the players you named Produced Significantly more than Havelid did in 08-09....Significantly More



Your credibility meter is dropping faster the Devils Hockey’s Future Prospect Rankings
The point is not production. The point is overall quality of play. Do we need a REAL offensive D-man? Yes. We desperately need a real offensive D-man. What we do not - absolutely DO NOT - need is a defenseman who would cost us a considerable amount to acquire but effectively adds nothing to this hockey team. As I've said many times, we need a #1. We do not need yet another #3. Every one of these players - every player that was available a year ago - was a 3 or lower. None of them are real assets. They all fall in the #2.5-4 range, which is to say, they're something we've already got.

It doesn't matter if they can produce if you don't trust them to be on the ice when it counts.

20 teams in the league need a #1

Our needs are Mottau not to get 20 minutes a game.

Our needs are to push White and Salavador down to the 5th and 6th guys on the depth chart.

A #1 in the terms you are talking is a fantasy pipe-dream.

20 teams in the league need a #1

Our needs are Mottau not to get 20 minutes a game.

Our needs are to push White and Salavador down to the 5th and 6th guys on the depth chart.

A #1 in the terms you are talking is a fantasy pipe-dream.
Maybe. You may well be right. But barring that #1, we're better off using our own prospects and trying to grow them into something we can either use in the future or can trade, than we are throwing good assets after bad and bringing in worthless depth defenseman after worthless depth defenseman.

That's why our better drafting is so significant. That's why using our kids is so important. Because we need the "Morrison and Pederson to Vancouver for Mogilny" trade right now (on defense). The guy we need sure as hell ain't coming through free agency. And, for the first time in four years, I'm beginning to think we might have the assets we need to pull it off.

We need to keep our eyes open for the availability of a Souray or a Kaberle. If I'm Lou, I'd consider Kaberle, and although the recent decline in his play has me slightly nervous, I'd still make a push. There are all kinds of rumors that Souray wants out of Edmonton or he's being shopped. If I'm Lou, I'm making loud inquiries.

I definitely chased Pronger at the draft. I gave up when Philadelphia simply bids higher than the assets we have to offer, but that's why the draft is so significant - that's why getting kids into the game is so significant. Because even if they don't work out for you, you can sell them off at a high value.

I'm also offering Zubov a 1 year contract, because of all the FAs who might have what it takes, he's the only one who actually is the kind of defenseman we need, no matter how old he is.

I'm NOT signing Mathieu Schneider or Derek Morris or Jordan Leopold to be "offensive defenseman" who can't be trusted to watch their own zone when the game gets tough. And I'm sure as hell not trading for them.

Each one of the players you named Produced Significantly more than Havelid did in 08-09....Significantly More

Morris Only had 1 more point in 08-09 But from the time he was traded he had 8 points in 15 games for his new team.


Your credibility meter is dropping faster the Devils Hockey’s Future Prospect Rankings

I love when people use primarily offensive stats to argue defenseman. Some sort of bizarro world that people live in.

Havelid had the best ESGA/60 rating out of Leopold, Schneider, or Morris. They're all on the same level.

That's why our better drafting is so significant. That's why using our kids is so important. Because we need the "Morrison and Pederson to Vancouver for Mogilny" trade right now (on defense). The guy we need sure as hell ain't coming through free agency. And, for the first time in four years, I'm beginning to think we might have the assets we need to pull it off.



What assets do you want to move? Our prospect that everyone here is so excited about? Clarkson? Picks?

Isn't it safer and more cost effective to add a solid D-man that could be a 3 or 4 on any team? I think we need 2 mid level defensemen. I don't believe we need a home run.

If we had two decent midlevel defensmen and our 3rd pairing was White and Salvador I think that would be more solid than getting a Kaberle or Souray.



I'm NOT signing Mathieu Schneider or Derek Morris or Jordan Leopold to be "offensive defenseman" who can't be trusted to watch their own zone when the game gets tough. And I'm sure as hell not trading for them.

And you trust Souray or Kaberle in their own zone during crunch time?

Those names mention were specifically for a playoff push. Schneider is the perfect type of player with no strings attached for a playoff push. Matter of fact, I would say he was the defensive equivalent to Guerin this year. Havelid was nothing more than a depth guy and that isn't what we needed.

Mind you, everybody, that JimEIV is the same poster that vehemently defended the defensive group when everybody has been ragging on it for the past two years!

The irony!

Havelid had the best ESGA/60 rating out of Leopold, Schneider, or Morris. They're all on the same level.

We were all looking for a little more offensive push last year...so ESGA is irrelevant in my mind....We are a great ESGA team, but we had zero offensive punch from the blue line.

We were all looking for a little more offensive push last year...so ESGA is irrelevant in my mind....We are a great ESGA team, but we had zero offensive punch from the blue line.

That's fine, but don't give me just offensive stats in your argument. It's like using receiving yards to evaluate running backs. Meaning, it's part of their game, but it isn't the first thing you should use to compare them.

Leopold was an abomination in his own end this year. Just terrible. And his offensive stats are not enough to make up for that. I went to that game against COL, he was the worst player on the ice.

What assets do you want to move? Our prospect that everyone here is so excited about? Clarkson? Picks?

Isn't it safer and more cost effective to add a solid D-man that could be a 3 or 4 on any team? I think we need 2 mid level defensemen. I don't believe we need a home run.

If we had two decent midlevel defensmen and our 3rd pairing was White and Salvador I think that would be more solid than getting a Kaberle or Souray.





And you trust Souray or Kaberle in their own zone during crunch time?


Those names mention were specifically for a playoff push. Schneider is the perfect type of player with no strings attached for a playoff push. Matter of fact, I would say he was the defensive equivalent to Guerin this year. Havelid was nothing more than a depth guy and that isn't what we needed.
Except, where Guerin was successful in the playoffs (playing with Crosby helps, of course, but he was still successful), Schneider ended up getting injured, playing a grand total of two games, putting up no points and being a -2. Which was predictable.

Moreover, where Schneider filled a gap behind an elite player like Markov where the Habs had a hole, had he come to NJ he would have become THE go-to offensive defenseman. Brian Rafalski failed in that role here, and he's a lot better than Schneider - that's why Detroit replaced Schneider with him in the first place.

We've got amazing prospect depth now. If half the guys we have now panned out, we'd still have twice as many forwards as we need. Trade assets. Plus, our 1st in 2010 is expendable now, it's a weak draft and we're not desperate for a prospect outside of goaltender, and you don't pick them in the first round anyway.

And no, before last season I did NOT trust Souray. Explicitly did not. But he showed me up with his performance in Edmonton.

Mind you, everybody, that JimEIV is the same poster that vehemently defended the defensive group when everybody has been ragging on it for the past two years!

The irony!

You are VERY CORRECT Sir,

But you paint an incomplete picture....I defended that defense, and ALWAYS have, based on the strength of our 2 way forwards. Things have changed....Namely we lost 2 very good defensive forwards.

So, Jim... You think we should of re-signed Madden and Gionta. That would of been $7.75mill on the cap. Plus you think we should add one of Leopold, Morris or Schneider???

Plus re-signing Oduya and Zajac??

This was a bad week to stop sniffing glue....

You are VERY CORRECT Sir,

But you paint an incomplete picture....I defended that defense, and ALWAYS have, based on the strength of our 2 way forwards. Things have changed....Namely we lost 2 very good defensive forwards.

They are good defensive forwards, but neither got the most Selke votes this year on the team, neither were as good as Zajac, Langenbrunner, or Elias were.

We're a team full of good defensive forwards. It's not a big loss in that aspect.

They are good defensive forwards, but neither got Selke votes this year, neither were as good as Zajac, Langenbrunner, or Elias were.

We're a team full of good defensive forwards. It's not a big loss in that aspect.
Our primary checking center for the majority of last season (and the successful portions of last season) was Zubrus.

They are good defensive forwards, but neither got the most Selke votes this year on the team, neither were as good as Zajac, Langenbrunner, or Elias were.

We're a team full of good defensive forwards. It's not a big loss in that aspect.

here we go.

And Zajac too. Zajac is an absolute stud.

So, Jim... You think we should of re-signed Madden and Gionta. That would of been $7.75mill on the cap. Plus you think we should add one of Leopold, Morris or Schneider???

Plus re-signing Oduya and Zajac??

This was a bad week to stop sniffing glue....

So, Jim... You think we should of re-signed Madden and Gionta. That would of been $7.75mill on the cap

I do think we should have resigned them and I don't believe for a fraction of a second it would have cost us Anything near 7.75 to do both. I think both could have been signed for less than 6M.

Plus you think we should add one of Leopold, Morris or Schneider??? At the deadline it would have cost us no money....all were on last year contracts.

Plus re-signing Oduya and Zajac?? You got it.

The Madden and Gionta contracts could have been cut there is no question my mind. Part that saving goes to Zajac, Holik's money off the books went to Oduya...Its a wash.

I do think we should have resigned them and I don't believe for a fraction of a second it would have cost us Anything near 7.75 to do both. I think both could have been signed for less than 6M.

At the deadline it would have cost us no money....all were on last year contracts.

You got it.

The Madden and Gionta contracts could have been cut there is no question my mind. Part that saving goes to Zajac, Holik's money off the books went to Oduya...Its a wash.

Okay and now that you have given all of that money out in long term deals (except for Probably Madden) what do you do with Martin next year when the Cap goes down?

I do think we should have resigned them and I don't believe for a fraction of a second it would have cost us Anything near 7.75 to do both. I think both could have been signed for less than 6M.

But that is just pure speculation on your part. Neither of them made it know that they would take a discount.

At the deadline it would have cost us no money....all were on last year contracts.

Didn't realise that you were talking about the trade deadline, my apologies. Allthough I don't think any of those players would of made a bit of difference. Havelid was the best "defender" at the time and our offence was firing on all cylinders.

You got it.

The Madden and Gionta contracts could have been cut there is no question my mind. Part that saving goes to Zajac, Holik's money off the books went to Oduya...Its a wash.

But why is there no question? Because they expressed some desire to come back? Doesn't mean that they would of taken a pay cut. Say Lou was desperate to bring Gio back, but was unwilling to offer anymore than the $4mill he was earning and the Habs put in their offer. I'm willing to bet Gio goes with the Habs anyway, considering his pal now plays for them...

Also, all that re-signing puts us right up against the cap, with little space to re-sign Martin next season. You cannot deny that Martin has more value to this team than an aged Madden and a 2nd line RW combined.

Okay and now that you have given all of that money out in long term deals (except for Probably Madden) what do you do with Martin next year when the Cap goes down?

You let Madden go next year. AFTER you've groomed a replacement.

You let Madden go next year. AFTER you've groomed a replacement.

He's already learned from Madden. They played together two seasons ago, and he was with the team in the playoffs to see how not to play in the final two minutes like Madden did.

But that is just pure speculation on your part. Neither of them made it know that they would take a discount.


But why is there no question?




Madden took a discount to go to Chicago....He wouldn't to stay here?

Lou didn't offer Gionta anything apparently....If Lou made him priority pre July 1 a deal could have been done...At least try



Also, all that re-signing puts us right up against the cap,

No it doesn't it is a wash if you get the cuts.

Madden took a discount to go to Chicago....He wouldn't to stay here?


No he didn't. He got market value. 2.75, just like Samuel Pahlsson, who at this point in their careers is a better checker than Madden anyways.

Madden knew it was time to move on, and so did Lou. This was a mutual parting.

No he didn't. He got market value. 2.75, just like Samuel Pahlsson, who at this point in their careers is a better checker than Madden anyways.




Madden was making 3 and change with a 2.9 Cap hit....He took a pay cut no matter how you slice it.

Madden was making 3 and change with a 2.9 Cap hit....He took a pay cut no matter how you slice it.

:laugh: he took a "pay cut" because he ****ing had to. No one was going to pay him 2.9 million a year again.

You let Madden go next year. AFTER you've groomed a replacement.

But the Cap is probably going down more than what Madden would make and you still have have to fill the roster spot (something that many on here forget when trying to do salary cuts)

I think after the Thanksgiving GDT, this is my longest thread. And about half of it is arguing. :(

Get on the happy train!

I'm pumped for next season. I see no reason not to be. Your first post summed it all up, it's gonna be a fun season. This division is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions, if not the most, and it should be an exciting season.

Only 3 more months...