Free Agency-Day 2 (open thread)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 9:37 AM MDT Comment 145 comments

[Promoted to the front page because I'm lazy. -Joe]

Since there are still a significant number of UFAs to sign, probably today, and the Avs could still make some noise I figured we should start another thread to keep track of the signings (I didn't see a new one)

While it's tempting to add onto yesterday's epic a new thread will be a little easier to follow.

Today (so far)

TB re-signs Niskala and Ryan Craig

Carolina signs UFA defenceman Josef Melichar

MileHighHockey.com is a fan community, allowing members to post their own thoughts and opinions on the Colorado Avalanche and hockey in general. These views and thoughts may not be shared by the editor of MileHighHockey.com.

0 recs | Comment 145 comments

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

Pitkanen

Re-signs (sort of) with Carolina

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 9:55 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

lots of big names still out there

Hossa, Sundin, Naslund, Demeitra, Huselius

I’d like to see the Avs snag a real 3rd line center to go with all these gritty players on our bottom 6 now, provided we can somehow dump Arnason or relegate him to the pressbox. Peca or Yelle catch my eye, they’d be good short term cheap signings.

I’d also like to see a 7th D signed, and I know exactly who I’d want: Aaron Miller. He’ll be cheap and physical.

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 10:02 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Avs

I am on the Morrison bandwagon, but if Morrison isn’t the right choice…

Why not Federov? He solves all the Avs major woes (he PK’s, he wins face-offs and he still provides a scoring touch). If necessary he could step up and be a 2nd line center. I realize he was on the wrong side of the Blood Feud, but I think he would fit nicely on this Avs team.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:05 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Solves

Solves is a bad word… shores up is probably more appropriate

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:24 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can see that.

I can see the Federov move working. Do I see FG making a smart move during this period? No.

by AaronHawn on Jul 2, 2008 10:17 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m really not expecting much of anything today. Hopefully I’ll be pleasantly surprised.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 10:27 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Disapointment

After the Disappointment of yesterday I’m not either, but there are a lot of players that would fit the Avs well.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:31 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, they’d fit us well IF we had the cash for them. I’m not sure we do.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 10:39 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Canucks

Sign John Doe… I mean Ryan Johnson.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:32 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Same difference, right?

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 10:39 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

FFFFUUUUUUCCCCKKKK

Red Wings do get Hossa… I am not Rick Rolling you.

Detroit Red Wings sign UFA forward Marian Hossa to a one-year contract worth $7.4 million.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:48 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

#*^#(&@#(*#

F the Wings.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 10:50 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least it’s only a 1 year deal. That’s surprising.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 10:50 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Line

They now have a Datsyuk-Zetterberg-Hossa line. Jesus

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:53 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I say we sabotage them. Somebody call immigration. One of those Swede’s is illegal

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 11:01 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

That does suck

Red Wings get Hossa,

While the Avs look to sign to sign another tough, currently negotiating with some guy named “D-Killz” from Denver County Jail….who claims he’s totally innocent of all charges

I miss baseball. Can we fire Clint Hurdle and Dan O'Dowd now?

by Redhawk on Jul 2, 2008 10:55 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

by the way...1st post on MHH

as I wandered over from the Purple Row…...I see we can cuss over here…yea!

SO: Hell, Fart, Damn!

that felt good

I miss baseball. Can we fire Clint Hurdle and Dan O'Dowd now?

by Redhawk on Jul 2, 2008 10:58 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cussing

Can we not cuss on Purple Row (not really a baseball fan)?

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 10:59 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

PG-13 limit

over on the Row….they give a little room, but try to keep it lighter as a whole

I miss baseball. Can we fire Clint Hurdle and Dan O'Dowd now?

by Redhawk on Jul 2, 2008 11:29 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I frown on the gratuitous potty words, too, but an occasional shit or fuck is okay, within reason. On the front page it’s verboten, but in the comments I don’t mind.

Again, within reason, which is determined by me, of course.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:47 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Welcome, welcome. It’s always good to have another set of eyes in the Mile High City, since the three primary bloggers on this site live in Kentucky, Oklahoma, and New Hampshire.

I went to a Redhawk’s game last weekend, actually.

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:46 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

it’s like the redneck trifecta!

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 11:52 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man, there’s a whole lot of gun-totin’ goin’ on in those three states I reckon.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:54 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

(spits into spitoon)
(adjusts belt)
Yup
(kisses cousin)

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:54 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks

and I’m actually originally from Oklahoma…..I r a gradeate from the University of Oklahoma! They learned me good!

But live in the Denver area now! (still a redneck)

I miss baseball. Can we fire Clint Hurdle and Dan O'Dowd now?

by Redhawk on Jul 2, 2008 12:08 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Saw that in your profile when I recognized the Redhawks’ logo.

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 12:09 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

FVKC

How often do we play them?

It’s gonna be a busy night for the Sheriff and Lappy when we play them. Ho$$a is just as big a sell-out as Theodore and lost pretty much all my respect at this point.
I am under the impression that FG low balled Theo, but we paid 12M for him when he wasn’t even a 4M goalie.

and yes. F the W

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 2, 2008 12:13 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

vomits

Hossa

vomits again

traitor

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:07 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Frank – how about tossing an open thread over on Pensburgh?

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 11:10 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

it’s up

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:11 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

You rule, Frank.

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 11:18 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

The rich get richer

It’s a punch to the gut watching Detroit signing the best available UFA while Colorado falls further into mediocrity. A one year deal makes sense for both sides. Hossa can cash in if he wins a cup. Detoit will need to use the money they are paying Hossa in 08-09 to re-sign Zetterberg next summer.

by Angélique C. Murray on Jul 2, 2008 11:07 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

What’s insane to me is that Detroit is losing no one except Hasek (who cares) and adding the best winger on the market. The repeat is in full effect now – and Hossa must die for it.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:08 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

There will be no Hossa fans amongst the Penguins’ faithful.

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 11:11 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

He Jagr’d us

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:15 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pens and Avs fans unite once more in hatred of the evil empire.

Hmmm, now that I think about it, maybe the Avs should just keep signing tough guys to beat up on the wings.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 11:21 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, the Tucker signing looks better every day!

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 2, 2008 12:15 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ugh

An unfortunate “amen” to that. It’s smart for both Hossa and the Red Wings. My day is ruined. This has been the worst morning in the last 2 days easily. Maybe even the last 3 days.

by ShaneG on Jul 2, 2008 11:21 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s more the fact that it’s Detroit. It kills me to think it was the first team that jumped into his mind before he left the ice in Game 6. “They won – I want to win – I will sign.”

Of all the teams he could have chosen (New York and Philly included), this one hurts the most.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:25 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

So much for the theory that Europeans aren’t very interested in winning the Cup.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:48 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

That prick Avery is back in the Western Conference.

by Angélique C. Murray on Jul 2, 2008 11:26 AM MDT reply actions 0 recs

I said yesterday he wants a city like Chicago, New York, Dallas, LA or Montreal. He needs to be a celebrity over a hockey player.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:29 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can keep him.

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 11:32 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Honestly, I expected Giguere to sign him.

But now with Avery and Steve Ott, the Stars are now the most annoying team in the Western Conference not from Detroit.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:50 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think the Avs may come in at third on that list given the Lappy/Tucker/Highlander line that could rollout next season. You know it will happen at one point. And somebody will try to cut somebody else’s throat with a skate. Just wait and see.

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:52 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not against the Panthers I hope.

Too soon? Too soon?

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:52 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh yeah, somebody almost died last season. I forgot.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:55 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Eh, as long as you reference Clint Malarchuk it’s cool. The time span between then and now is enough wiggle room to toss out insults.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:56 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, and he does interviews about it now, so he’s doing alright.

So your comment should read: “Not against the Sabres I hope.”

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 11:57 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

My fault…my fault.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 11:59 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

After the Hossa deal, I’d say Detroit pulled another fast one and captured that title as well.

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 12:08 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

The forgotten Av

Nobody has picked up Wyatt Smith yet. I wonder why.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 12:07 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Brisebois is a free agent too, I noticed. Not that he was an Av last year.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 12:08 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, and so is Jimmy Dowd. I liked him when he played with us for a few months.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 12:09 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don’t say that! “He” might hear you and sign Brisebois back to go from mediocrity to full-fledged panther-mode

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 2, 2008 12:19 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Forgotten Av

Nobody has picked up Wyatt smith yet. I wonder why.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 12:17 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Double post? How did I do that on this platform?

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 12:18 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s hard, but I did it too yesterday.

Welcome to the elite double-post gang

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 2, 2008 12:19 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Far too good for us regular double-posters.

Bring hockey back to Louisville!

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 12:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m not excluding anyone.

If you’ve double posted at some point since the new platform, you’re an automatic member for life!
So start trying:p

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 2, 2008 12:23 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome

Do we get call membership crads, secret handshakes or code names cause that would be great.

by Savage33 on Jul 3, 2008 12:46 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, the Wings signed Hossa. I’m not as mad as most of you here. I mean, yeah, I hate the Wings and this sucks. But it reminds me an awful lot of those cases where you have “too much” great players. Kind of reminds me of that time we got Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya. I’m calling that the Wings season goes in a similar direction the Avs’ season went that year. I wouldn’t be surprised either, what with Chicago getting Campbell/Huet on top of a team I would have thought was already good enough for the playoffs. And Chicago even won the season series vs. Detroit last season… I’m not saying the Hawks will win the division, I’m just saying I wouldn’t be surprised if this signing backfires on Detroit, and they don’t have as successful a season. Just a gut feeling.

by Mike the Avs Fan on Jul 2, 2008 12:25 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

It’s better than the feeling I’m having right now. Let’s just say that it’s not very optimistic.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 12:27 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, well, I wouldn’t worry too much. I see Detroit getting 130 pts. in the regular season and losing in the 2nd round…

And WHY has no one signed Nagy yet? Come on Avs, jump on him! Bruno left, this guy would be a great replacement! Kings GM Dean Lombardi even went as far as to say he’s one of the top 6 forwards in the Western conference when healthy.

by Mike the Avs Fan on Jul 2, 2008 12:30 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Granted, that was the Kings GM, who wouldn’t know a good player if he accidentally picked him in the entry draft at random (Anze Kopitar).

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 12:32 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well what about Dustin Brown, or Mike Cammalleri (former King)? And Bernier too, that guy looks like he’s gonna be a pretty good goalie. And Alexander Frolov and Patrick O’Sullivan, those guys are some pretty good young players (Frolov can be a 40-goal scorer). Not too sure why the Kings gave up Cammalleri and Visnovsky though… The Kings are kind of like the West’s version of the Leafs.

by Mike the Avs Fan on Jul 2, 2008 1:01 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE to see Dustin Brown in an Avs unipron.

2005-06 Los Angeles Kings NHL 79GP 14G 14A 28PTS 80PIMS
2006-07 Los Angeles Kings NHL 81GP 17G 29A 46PTS 54 PIMS
2007-08 Los Angeles Kings NHL 78GP 33G 27A 60PTS 55 PIMS

Unfortunately, he’s signed through 2013.

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 3:00 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nagy-No

Huselius, Yes

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 12:32 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Huselius would be a nice pickup for the Avs. But I don’t think FG has awoken from his Raycroft/Tucker induced coma yet.

by Bob in Boulder on Jul 2, 2008 12:41 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ottawa

Signed Shean Donovan to a two-year contract.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 12:44 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Its a re-sign. He has been around the block a few times. He has been on 7 teams.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 12:47 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lunchtime

Hopefully the Red Wings don’t sign the Stanley Cup to a 3-year contract while I am out.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 1:04 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

If the cup was a UFA I’m sure they’d try….bastards!

"The difference between a successful person and others,
is not a lack of strength,not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will."
-Vince Lombardi-

by Americanario on Jul 2, 2008 1:10 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m still trying to figure out why the whole “Salary Cap Parity” thing apparently doesn’t apply to them.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 1:27 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Because they’re now out to piss everyone off.

I'm sorry, Mr. Hossa, but I'm afraid we can't be friends anymore. Why? Because I hate you.

by JDunman on Jul 2, 2008 1:35 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Because they have Zetterberg, Franzen and Osgood all locked in on relatively cheap contracts, and everyone else on very cheap contracts. Datsyuk, Lidstrom, Rafalski and now Hossa are the only guys making big money.

by Andrew_in_Seattle on Jul 2, 2008 1:51 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, but

Zetterburg and Franzen are UFA’s next year and will want $$$. They might have to spend out of Ryan Miller’s range, but somehow, I bet they figure it out…

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 3:02 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have an evil plan

so with the red wangs signing hossa, they’ve created an interesting little cap issue for themselves this year. they’re at 52.7m, and the cap is 56.7, leaving them 4m to sign filppula (RFA), chelios, and 13th forward X. You know what they’ve done? they’ve PL’s themselves—spent too much a rental. They’ve left themselves WAY open to an offer sheet for filppula.

Guess what? The Avs need a 2nd/3rd line center with faceoff ability. he’s perfect. I say offer him 2.5m for 3 years (that’s to his UFA day, and right below the compensation switch point to a 1st and a 3rd). If detroit signs, oh well, they’re screwed that much harder with the cap this year and next. If they let him go, we trade a 2nd for an ideal 3rd line center.

Only question is whether he would sign that offer. Loyalty matters, and he could probably get more from, say, Vancouver.

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 1:47 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

That’s not a bad plan… but his eyebrows are a different color than his hair, I just can’t trust a player like that.

by Mike the Avs Fan on Jul 2, 2008 1:50 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've got a plan too...

I’m laying money on the Wings all throughout the regular season. Sure, it’s a bit like drug money but I’ll take it.

by ShaneG on Jul 2, 2008 1:56 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then everything you buy with that money will feel like a blood diamond.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 1:58 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pretty and worth a fortune.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 2:42 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

With the annoying Decraprio faux-accent…

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 3:03 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Damnit

Ron Hainsey signed in Atlanta, yet another guy I wouldn’t have minded having on our blue line.

by Mike the Avs Fan on Jul 2, 2008 1:50 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Blueline

I don’t think the Avs need a blueliner. If they are going to spend money, They need a 2nd/3rd line center

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 1:53 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

FILPPULA

it’s so perfect!

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 1:58 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

LIst of availability

http://mirtle.blogspot.com/2008/07/2008-free-agency-whos-left.html

Jason Williams is still available. For some reason I remember him being a decent third-liner but I could be smoking crack again (I just can’t help it)

by ShaneG on Jul 2, 2008 1:59 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks

I was looking for something like that. Huselius is about the most attractive forward option left out there. Don’t the Avs, even if Sakic does come back, have enough cap room to make some sort of a little splash? Shouldn’t that be part of letting Theo walk? Wtf is FG doing? Waxing his torpedo?

MHH: Shagging Dater one contributor at a time.

by Bob in Boulder on Jul 2, 2008 2:26 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

He may be looking foward to next year and not committing past one-year deals.

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 3:04 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I cannot, in any way, handle having TooPretty Fillipula on my team

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 2:19 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

you’d rather have arny than filppula?

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 2:26 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

is there an option C?

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 2:30 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mats Sundin!

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 2:43 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, we can get robocop for 10 mil a year ;-)

by rbj on Jul 2, 2008 2:48 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wolski re-upped

2 year, money N/A yet, according to avs employee on HF

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 2:51 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Hmm…I wish we locked him up for longer.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 2:55 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

actually it’s a good thing—longer and he’s not a UFA when he comes out.

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 2:59 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

er

not a RFA, i mean

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 2:59 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Details

Per Dater

$5.6M for 2 years

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:18 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

that seems high

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 3:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think so

Sounds about right to me. I guessed $3M/year in my initial assessment (he’s young and you always overpay for young potential)

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:21 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

5.6M for 2yrs does seem a tad high….but despite the Q doghouse benching issues Wolski was the 4th leading scorer on the team. He got a lot of beef from people, but he really did push that third line and if not for Arnason, he and Svatos might have been higher in scoring. He has added some grinding to his play as he spent much more time in the corners and back checking this last season.

"The difference between a successful person and others,
is not a lack of strength,not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will."
-Vince Lombardi-

by Americanario on Jul 3, 2008 10:39 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have no problem with the money Wolski was given. I hope, though, that he does more to earn it, and I’m hoping a (kinda) new coach will help him fulfill his potential.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 3, 2008 11:05 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

does next year look bleak?

I am not impressed with the what the Avs have done

by broncfanstuckinsd on Jul 2, 2008 2:57 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Yet?

I’m still holding out hope for a nice signing… (but it’s looking bleak)

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 2:58 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have read some other boards and have seen alot of defeatist attitudes. I’m remaining optimistic. Only two years ago, a physically intimidating team with arugably less forward scoring ability, but probably a better goaltender depending on how Budaj steps up, won the cup. The Ducks have Chris “King of Suspensions” Pronger though.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 3:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok

But does anyone think this team go go far in the playoffs with Budaj in net? Thats my main concern

by broncfanstuckinsd on Jul 2, 2008 3:22 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hard to tell. My gut feeling says no, especally for next year since he has no playoff experience except for releaving Theo in a few games vs. the Wings.

I like the conspiracy theory that since after this coming season the Avs will have no NHL caliber goaltenders on contract, they may make a run at Buffalo’s Ryan Miller as long as he doesn’t get an extension. And also assuming the Avs can beat out about 12 other teams that would be after him.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 3:26 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I forgot to mention. John Micheal Liles and Ryan Miller are good friends.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 3:28 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Prove himself

I think he can be a #1 goalie. Is he Lundqvist? no but the Wings just won with Chris Osgood in net. I think Budaj could be better than Osgood. Regardless he has the opportunity to prove himself.

If not they jettison him next season and go after a proven starter. Miller’s one good bet…

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:34 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

do ya think

With Q gone, and the way he treated goalies., it could bode well for Budaj? Maybe he does have it in him? Was Q most likely a bad fit here in denver

by broncfanstuckinsd on Jul 2, 2008 3:38 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Part of it

I think that’s part of it. Budaj didn’t even play bad last season, and play really well the season prior. There’s questions there, but we started last season with Budaj as the starter and everyone was fine with it. That was with Skrastins and Sauer instead of Salei and Foote in front of the net.

I think Buds will be fine.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:41 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

And is Budaj that much more of a risk than had the Avs been able to keep Theo? How do we, (or Washington for that matter), know if 06-07 Theo comes back.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 3:44 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can see Theo playing somewhat well(better than his first two years as an Av, not as good as 2008) in Washington since he’ll finally be out of Roy’s shadow and won’t have the pressure of living up to Roy’s greatness that he had in Montreal and Colorado.

by Savage33 on Jul 3, 2008 12:53 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good point. The Avs D is underrated and if they play well in front of him he shouldn’t have to me outstanding.

Plus Budaj is cheap. If he faulters, he could easily be traded.

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 3:38 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thats good

I kinda of forgot about their D. being here in SD and no vs. on tv and the lack of coverage from ESPN i kind of have lapsed on the Avs. I just found this site. Thanks for bearing with some of my questions. I just hope they are a year or 2 away from serious contendors again

by broncfanstuckinsd on Jul 2, 2008 3:45 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Malkin

Did you guys see his deal? 5 years with an $8.7 per year average!

by Mrs @ MHH on Jul 2, 2008 3:16 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah that’s right – F Hossa

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 3:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

the same as Crosby. Smart move by the pens to avoid showing any inkling of favouritism by giving them the same money.

by Savage33 on Jul 3, 2008 12:54 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wild and Pens

Wild re-sign Foster

Pens Re-sign Orpik

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:17 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Sigh of relief…not all was lost.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 3:20 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Orpik

I like Orpik a lot, Had the Avs not had a fully returning D i would have suggested they make a run at him.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 3:22 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

His hits on what has become known as “The Shift” are what it’s all about.

FrankD from Pensburgh.com

by FrankD on Jul 2, 2008 3:25 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

What?

I heard it was all about “Free Candy”. I’m all for that :)

Don't Go, Joe!

by texacogirl on Jul 3, 2008 12:39 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Islanders sign Doug Weight

1 year, 1.75 mil.

Yawn.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 4:47 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

He is still playing?! Wowza!

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 4:59 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I thought he quit after winning the cup.

by Savage33 on Jul 3, 2008 12:55 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Finger vs. Sauer

Tolensky over at hockeybuzz had a funny, (and pretty dang comprehensive) analysis comparing the Finger signing to the Sauer signing. Check it out.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 5:08 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

Thats pretty funny. And he makes a good case that the Leafs are morons who signed the wrong guy. (Or failed to sign Sauer, than signed Finger attempting to mock the Coyotes in a “look, we have the better player because he makes more money” kind of way).

InYoFace Hasek! InYoFace

by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2008 5:43 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

crap. I just spent all this time making my own post at ITCS on that. His is way better.

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 6:25 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don’t worry. We (and Dater) still love you.

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 6:38 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Doesn’t get old to me. But I find tons of humor in repetition itself.

MHH: Shagging Dater one contributor at a time.

by Bob in Boulder on Jul 2, 2008 6:48 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m trying to work, but I can’t stop laughing at that sig!

by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2008 6:51 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

That IS a quality sig there, BiB.

Well DONE, sir!

by Mike @ MHH on Jul 3, 2008 9:15 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I do my best. And I decided it would be more fair to allow other MHH contributors to share the love, so to speak.

MHH: Shagging Dater one contributor at a time.

by Bob in Boulder on Jul 3, 2008 9:35 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice BiB…
I didn’t notice it a t first, can’t stop laughing now.

"The difference between a successful person and others,
is not a lack of strength,not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will."
-Vince Lombardi-

by Americanario on Jul 3, 2008 10:43 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’ll pass.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 3, 2008 11:05 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure you will. I can see through all of your teasing DD as nothing more than jealous rage.

MHH: Shagging Dater one contributor at a time.

by Bob in Boulder on Jul 3, 2008 11:14 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

But, [former Colorado coach] Joel Quennville told me he was one of the five best defensemen in the Western Conference last year. He played against the best players on every other team.

If Q was so high on him, why didn’t he play him more? Q seems to screw players he likes and lets other crutches to the team (Arnason) play every game.

"The difference between a successful person and others,
is not a lack of strength,not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will."
-Vince Lombardi-

by Americanario on Jul 3, 2008 10:47 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was just thinking to myself, I hope Tyler Arnason doesn’t read this blog. There hasn’t been a comment thread all summer that hasn’t disparaged him in some way. I hope he has a thick skin.

Not that we shouldn’t criticize his on-ice sucking, of course, because it would be a crime to ignore it.

Go Avs! Let's get some goals!

by Joe @ MHH on Jul 3, 2008 11:07 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Arnason

That’s what happens when you go 1/4 of the season and score 4 pts (3 against the Oil) and can’t do anything else.

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 3, 2008 11:11 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. Arnason didn’t look like he belonged in the NHL and should be bought out of his contract.
Yes, he can stickhandle quite well with his LONG stick (compensating anything??) but he lacks too many other things to be wearing the ugly Avs uni.

26 Card Jet

by Tommelot on Jul 3, 2008 11:47 AM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jackets get Huselius

Four years, 4.75 mil. Sounds like a bargain to me. We couldn’t afford that?

by Rather Dashing on Jul 2, 2008 8:27 PM MDT reply actions 0 recs

No kidding

I just don’t understand

"A witty saying proves nothing."
- Voltaire (1694-1778)

by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2008 9:15 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs

i’ll pass—huselius is decent, but a defensive enigma and a streaky scorer. we have 2 of those at RW already on our top 6, another is not needed. I’d much rather give Hensick a shot there.

by thedoctor on Jul 2, 2008 10:29 PM MDT up reply actions 0 recs