Potential Buyout Targets
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 6:00 AM MDT
in Avalanche News & Notes
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Last Mondays, I'm looking at all things cap related. Last week, I looked at the cap numbers of recent entry level deals signed by some new faces with the Avalanche. We have one more bit of clerical tidying this week before we start jumping into the meatier subject matter of RFAs and UFAs. That starts next week. This week? A look at who the Avalanche might buyout this offseason. This is going to be really quick.
Under the NHL CBA, teams can buy out a bad contract. When they buy out a contract, they are responsible for paying just 2/3 of the remaining money owed and they spread that cap hit out over a longer period (twice the duration remaining on a contract). Teams get short term cap relief, but do extend the length of time that player is on the books. The Islanders will have Alexei Yashin's buyout on their books for 5 more seasons. Andrew Raycroft and Darcy Tucker both counted towards the Maple Leafs cap numbers last season, and Tucker will still eat $1 million of cap for 4 more seasons.
With regards to the cap, the Avalanche are in good shape. Great shape, really. There are currently 15 players who played with them last year currently under contract for next season. 8 of those have cap numbers of $1 million or less (Cody McLeod, Ryan O'Reilly, TJ Galiardi, David Jones, Ryan Stoa, Justin Mercier, Kyle Cumiskey and Ryan Wilson. No need to buy out any of those names. The remaining names are Paul Stastny ($6.6 m), Milan Hejduk ($3 m), Matt Duchene ($3.4 m), Scott Hannan ($4.5 m), John-Michael Liles ($4.425), Tom Preissing ($2.75) and Craig Anderson ($2.1).
There really is only one buyout candidate there, and that's Tom Preissing. And really, there's not much incentive to buy him out. Actually, it would be a detriment to the cap to do so. Preissing spent most of last season in the AHL and figures to repeat that in 2010-2011. While he's in the AHL, he does not count against the cap (although the Avalanche still have to pay him his full salary). A buyout would cost $916,000 against the cap this year and next year - a healthy cap hit just to save $900,000 from the bottom line.
The Avalanche haven't bought out a player since Chris Gratton was let go when the current CBA was implemented back in 2005. This year won't see a change in that status. Preissing is the only name the Avalanche would consider, and it doesn't make any sense to do so in his case. Expect him to be back with Lake Erie next year, working alongside whichever Avalanche blueline prospects that don't make the big club.
Next week, we start hitting the meat and potatoes portion of the dinner. Do you folks want me to start with RFAs first or UFAs?
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RFA's first?
Would be my preference. This needs a poll :)
the more I think about it, RFAs first makes sense
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 6:20 AM MDT up reply actions
I’d think so as we can be fairly certain that they will all be with the club next season, cant remember myself who they are but I dont think theres anyone out of the RFA’s that the brass wouldnt want to stay around. And some of them are due a bit of a raise I’d think..
there’s at least one (Hensick) who probably won’t get an offer. a couple other questionables.
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 7:13 AM MDT up reply actions
I still think Hensick would be decent trade-bait, a little cherry on top to sweeten some deal or another. He has had those amazing flashes that we have witnessed, and maybe some club thinks he is a valuable prospect.
Then again, maybe not.
Thanks Joe...
I thought he might get moved at the deadline in exactly that type of add. now, though, not much value
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 9:25 AM MDT up reply actions
Even after we sign all the RFA’s…aren’t we still under the basement?
Pressing isn’t going to get bought out, he makes for a serviceable replacement player for a game or two.
I’m still thinking, if they go the UFA route, Andy Sutton should be our top target.
"It comes from motivation within" - Matt Hendricks
Mile High Mayhem just another ho-hum Avs blog.
BURGUNDY ARMY...BLEEDING BURGUNDY UNTIL I DIE!!!
they are definitely going to have some $$$ to spend
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 8:06 AM MDT up reply actions
yep. Pronger whispered that the anchorwomen there are HOT
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 8:40 AM MDT up reply actions
Sharp
I know Mike has a nearly unhealthy man crush on Patrick Sharp, but here’s what he said after the game yesterday, in which SJ got 5 PP and Chi none:
“The refs do a good job out there. They’re not siding with one team. They made the calls they had to make and we’re fine with that. We’ll continue to work hard and use our speed, so hopefully we can draw a few next game.”
Holy crap, not whining about the refs. Is he the anti-Ailes?
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 9:06 AM MDT reply actions
RFAs first makes sense to me too.
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
well that’s all I need.
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 9:19 AM MDT up reply actions
I’m so taking over for Savage around here!
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 17, 2010 10:32 AM MDT up reply actions
Kovie
Kovie Kovie Kovie Kovie. Fills a glaring need. Puts butts in the seats. The Avs have as much cap room as anyone to throw his way. But only if he agrees to a longer-term, tapering off, cap friendly sort of deal.
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"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 17, 2010 10:07 AM MDT reply actions
Dater agrees with you
Forever grateful that Joe Sakic isn't a douche bag like Brett Favre.
by Rather Dashing on May 17, 2010 10:30 AM MDT up reply actions
AD and I have talked about this, and we both think the Avs are going to be in the running for Kovy
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 10:36 AM MDT up reply actions
I agree
As much as Sherman tries to detract from that sentiment, I just can’t shake this feeling that the Avs will take a run at him.
There are some in NJ, though, who think that the Devils should sign Kovalchuk and let Parise go. That sounds crazy to me, but there are a lot of crazy people in the world.
I hate the Red Wings.
That doesn't sound right...
You want to pick up NJ’s droppings? lol
Depends
Have the Devils been eating the hot sauce or are you adding it? Makes for two totally different kinds of droppings.
Ummm
Can we get PArise then. I’d rather have Parise than Kovy… and I like Kovi.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 10:45 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I call Shenanigans
There are some in NJ, though, who think that the Devils should sign Kovalchuk and let Parise go. That sounds crazy to me, but there are a lot of crazy people in the world.
No offense, but prove it. Prove that statement. If you find one blogger, one post, one whisper, even, that a Devils fan thinks they should keep Kovi and get rid of Parise, I’ll buy you a Beef ’n Cheddar.*
*But you’re right, there are crazy people in the world for sure. There are some Avs’ fans, for example, who think that, for some unknown reason, we’d be able to get coveted defenseman Paul Martin at some sort of crazy discount. That’s definitely not going to happen. In fact, Martin’s going to get at least $5 million/year, maybe more than that, and he’ll probably stay in NJ.
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 11:58 AM MDT up reply actions
I don’t think Martin Leaving is far fetched… NJ doesn’t historically shell out a lot of money for defensemen.
But the idea he’ll come here for a discount is insane.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 12:07 PM MDT up reply actions
Sam Woo
Samuel P. Woo, co-founder of HockeyPrimetime.com. Also operates sampwoo.com, and he is a Devils blogger for HockeyBuzz. Also on Facebook and Twitter. He’s a frequent Hockey This Morning guest.
Here’s a link to a post he wrote a couple weeks back in which he actually said that the Devils should re-sign Kovy and make him the captain.
Also, I dunno if you can see it, but here’s a link to his Facebook status from this morning in which he advocated for letting Parise go. I think a large part of it has to do with the fact that they would get 5 1st-rounders in a RFA deal for Parise, but I also think he values Kovalchuk more.
There have been rumors on ESPN the past couple of days that Kovalchuk is close to re-signing, and there have been some writers in Pittsburgh and New Jersey advocating a Malkin for Parise deal. If you have an ESPN Insider account, check out the NHL Rumors section for today and yesterday.
I hate the Red Wings.
Thanks man, appreciate it. Shoot me an email or something and let me know where I can send your Beef and Cheddar.
If I were a Devils fan and all of a sudden the core of my team became Kovalchuk and Malkin, while losing Parise, I think I’d throw up in my mouth. But maybe that’s just me.
Oh, and by the way, Sam Woo, even though I don’t know the guy, is batshit crazy.
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 4:38 PM MDT up reply actions
Anytime
Keep the Beef and Cheddar, I can’t stand the things.
I agree. If I were a Devils fan and the thought of letting Parise go was even so much as mentioned to me, I’d think it could be used as a legitimate excuse for assault and battery in a court of law.
I hate the Red Wings.
AD and I have talked about this in bed, and we both think the Avs are going to be in the running for Kovy
Ah, now I see how that works.
Speaking of your boy, do you think it would kill him to tighten up some of his reporting a little bit? Here’s the latest example, class, let’s see if you can spot the part of the story that’s lazy reporting at its worst:
Of the few players the Avs definitely need to re-sign (Peter Mueller, Chris Stewart, Kyle Quincey), most are restricted free agents, meaning they won’t have full leverage in negotiations, giving the upper hand to management.
Anyone get it right away? OK, first of all, the 3 players you listed are all restricted. There was no “etc.” after the names, so I don’t know (actually I do, but play along) if they’re the only ones you’re talking about. Now, some questions: Which players, exactly, are restricted versus unrestricted, since you implied that some are unrestricted? What do you mean they won’t have “full leverage” – what are their options? Do they have any leverage, or none? What do you mean that management will have the upper hand?
Seriously…is it fucking difficult to explain that X, Y, and Z are restricted, but that X is the only player eligible for arbitration, which means that A or B can happen…WHAT THE FUCK? IT’S YOUR FUCKING BEAT, MAN, OWN IT!
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 12:25 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
thank you, thank you, thank you! (John Kelly style)
This isn’t only common with the Avs beat writers, I see it in the sports sections of local rags all around the league. What is up with the sloppy, poor reporting that seems endemic to hockey beat writers?
I don’t think it’s limited to just hockey. I think it’s reporting in general. I believe it’s a repercussion of the internet. JMO though.
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 19, 2010 1:05 PM MDT up reply actions
I am unsure on this subject. I want to be sure that we have enough cap room for everyone down the line, and paying someone 8mil$/yr might put some players on the short end later on [Hi Chicago!]. As long as the numbers work, I am not against it.
Any rumors about his locker room rapport?
Thanks Joe...
I haven’t crunched all the numbers yet, but we’ll see how it looks
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 12:32 PM MDT up reply actions
Chicago seems to be doing just fine with the situation. I’ll take Chicago’s position over ours any day. They’re 7 wins away from winning the Stanley Cup. Us? Pretty good potential, and no idea if we’ll ever get that close in the near future. We can all hope, but who knows? I’d rather have the assets, including the high-salaried superstars, and worry about paying the young guys later when that bill comes due. Never forget that there are 29 genius GMs willing to help you out. Watch how Chicago unloads some guys this offseason at the height of their value (hello, Byfuglien!) and gets back to where they need to be to manage the cap in the future.
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 12:40 PM MDT up reply actions
I agree with you, but there’s a couple of things:
1. He’s not putting butts in the seats. Most Avs “fans” couldn’t point Kovalchuk out of a lineup. He’s probably the most anonymous superstar in the NHL, and Denver’s a shitty pretty weak hockey town, so there’s your argument right there.
2. Signing a Russian is always risky. They are prone to inconsistency, laziness, working their asses off for a few seconds on offense but doing nothing on defense, disappearing in big games, getting huge contracts that they never live up to, and infuriating management with flashes of brilliance contrasted with periods of underachievement*.
*Sounds alot like Wolski, there, except that the upside for Kovalchuk (and some other mega-talented Russians) is huuuuuuuge, whereas for Wolski it was just “fairly high.”
I’m in favor of it because he improves this team alot. Gives it size and skill and a true offensive superstar. He wouldn’t be a captain here (or even an assistant, I don’t think), so he wouldn’t have to worry about that stuff. He wouldn’t be shackled by having no other good offensive players around him (Atlanta), or by a limited offensive scheme (New Jersey).
I still think he goes somewhere else, though.
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 12:12 PM MDT up reply actions
Here's a question no one seems to be addressing...
would he WANT to come here? I know we can’t know his mind, but he was pretty vocal about wanting to leave the Thrashers and why…is there a reason he’d want to leave the Devils? Would their early ousting of the playoffs, after having such promise, play into that? If so, would that affect the Avs’ management’s decision on wanting to take a risk on him and the possibility that he’d become disgruntled in Denver too?
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 17, 2010 2:28 PM MDT up reply actions
Has there ever been more ass-kicking in one picture?
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 10:48 AM MDT reply actions
Somebody made Lappy mad. Do you see the demonic flash in his eyes?
I’m pretty sure that the photographer didn’t live to see this photo.
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche - Much more gooderer than last year!
I wonder if Lappy will come back for the SCF if the Flyers make it…or maybe even in this series. He was in the preskate last night. I bet he’s DYING to be back in the game and will push himself to get there if they do get in the Finals. Man I want his name on that Cup so badly. Whatever on Pronger being there too. I’ll take it if it gets Lappy’s there.
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 17, 2010 10:54 AM MDT up reply actions
Someone should photoshop Chuck Norris in there. That would be the maximum amount of kick ass allowed in a single photograph.
"Here's your dream: Matt Duchene, can he do it?... HE CAN! HE DID IT! MATT DUCHENE AND THE AVS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS!" - Mike Haynes
and Jimmy Howard
Assistant *to* the Managing Editor, Mile High Hockey
by David Driscoll-Carignan on May 17, 2010 11:41 AM MDT up reply actions
Speaking of which, if he’s so great, then why are the Wings trying to shop for Ryan Miller?
"It comes from motivation within" - Matt Hendricks
Mile High Mayhem just another ho-hum Avs blog.
BURGUNDY ARMY...BLEEDING BURGUNDY UNTIL I DIE!!!
You would also need Gregory House in there somewhere….
"It comes from motivation within" - Matt Hendricks
Mile High Mayhem just another ho-hum Avs blog.
BURGUNDY ARMY...BLEEDING BURGUNDY UNTIL I DIE!!!
How many phonebooks is Kiefer standing on there?
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 11:59 AM MDT up reply actions
Wasn't Parise
On Stazzer’s line during the Olympics? That’d be awesome to get him OR Kovy. I hope we use that cap space to get someone awesome.
Yes, and they were killer together. I’d much rather have the Devils keep Kovie and give us a chance at Parise. I feel like he’d be more affordable, and a better all-around option in the long run.
Forever grateful that Joe Sakic isn't a douche bag like Brett Favre.
by Rather Dashing on May 17, 2010 11:46 AM MDT up reply actions
Concur
but I don’t think that’s going to happen. Just don’t see the Devils giving Parise away.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 11:52 AM MDT up reply actions
But I am not sure they can keep both him AND Kovy. They sent a lot to ATL for him to only be a rental player. I imagine there would be a revolt in the fan base to give up so much for one guy to only play 2 months and be a more-or-less nonfactor in the playoffs. They may let Parise go in order to save face.
At the same time, if Parise isn’t resigned, there is going to be an outcry about what a terrible trade NJ made for Kovy. Its going to be a very interesting offseason!
Thanks Joe...
The cap won’t allow them to keep both. Not when Zach’s contract is up.
"It comes from motivation within" - Matt Hendricks
Mile High Mayhem just another ho-hum Avs blog.
BURGUNDY ARMY...BLEEDING BURGUNDY UNTIL I DIE!!!
And they’ll keep Parise over Kovi.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 12:07 PM MDT up reply actions
Kovy had 6 points in 5 playoff games this year. It’s not like he didn’t show up. I think NJ fans were just expecting one guy to make up for a horrible offensive system.
"By the age of 18, the average American has witnessed 200,000 acts of violence on television, most of them occurring during Game 1 of the NHL playoff series." ~Steve Rushin
I imagine there would be a revolt in the fan base…
You mean the fanbase that historically doesn’t show up for 82 regular season games?
If we don't get our sauce, we ain't watching the game!
Call me strange, but I hope the Avs don’t get Kovy.
I’m not a big fan of one dimensional players. Especially the ones that demand salaries of at least 8 mil.
I would jump for joy if we got Parise. But, like others have said, if the Devs give him up there will be a massive revolt in Jersey.
Look at the guys we have now. With the exception of Svatos, most if not all the forwards are three zone guys. I think the Avs want a guy that can shoot, but at the same time be responsible in the neutral and defensive zones.
That means not Kovalchuk.
I know my name is spelled "Luxury Yacht" but it's actually pronounced Throatwarbler Mangrove.
As a member in good standing with the PFJ I truly hate only two things:
The JPF and the Detroit Red Wings! And Red Wing fans. Ok, I truly hate three things...
Agree 100%. I’d love for the Avs to get Parise or Sharp and hope like hell that they don’t get Kovy. I don’t want to be in a position in a few years to have to choose between Dutchy and Radar or Gali and Yip because we paid Kovy so much for so long.
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche - Much more gooderer than last year!
The only guy of the four you mentioned who’s even possibly in Kovi’s league is Dutchy, and he’s not close yet. The rest of them, combined, don’t equal what Kovalchuk can do, and I love Galiardi but even in our wildest dreams he’s not a game changer. They are all eminently replaceable, Kovalchuk is a very rare talent.
"We left (the combine) saying, 'Boy, that's pretty unique, what he has and his passion for this game and for winning.' He's been a winner, and you could see why." Josh McDaniels on Tim Tebow.
by Dan Winkler on May 17, 2010 12:56 PM MDT up reply actions
Dan does have an excellent point…. To really be a powerhouse we need that true talent, an exceptional top liner. If we don’t have anything like that in the system, and we don’t want to make trades like NJ did to acquire Kovy, then our only choice is to sign someone to big money. There is just no other choice.
Superstars are primadonnas. But they can be the one piece that tips the balance. I would love to get someone of that talent level, I just don’t want to mortgage the farm to do it.
Thanks Joe...
Don't think you're pickin' up what I'm putting down.
I won’t argue your conclusion that Dutchy is the only one of those players with the potential to post Kovy-like numbers. I am, however, very leery of the prospect of becoming a “First Line plus AHLers 1 through 9” type of team. That was the point that I was trying to make.
I think that Kovy has shown a tendency to be the sort of player that requires such situations in the past and don’t care to have that story repeated here in COL.
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche - Much more gooderer than last year!
Agree
and also; The Avs have plenty of quality defensive forwards. They have a severe lack of guys who can actually put the puck in the net consistently. The Avs have the luxury of getting an offensive zone only guy and giving him zone starts only in the offensive zone.
They don’t necessarily need to have a 2-way player with that money, as long as he puts up 100 points per season.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 1:50 PM MDT up reply actions
That’s what I was thinking. There’s a reason they were stressing that Radar and Gali become so defensively minded this year, I believe. We need a huge threat on offense that scares the other team into standing still. Dutchy will do that next season. He showed moments of it last season. But we have a team full of role players…without one of them being in that “shit, here he comes again” role (except Duchene-in-the-making).
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 17, 2010 2:44 PM MDT up reply actions
I think Dutchie is still a few years away (NHL players tend to peak around 25 or 26, regardless of when they break into the league).
Dutchie will be better, but I don’t see him progressing to “NHL elite” level next season.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 17, 2010 3:35 PM MDT up reply actions
I dunno...
I bet he’ll be closer than you think…
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 18, 2010 8:38 PM MDT up reply actions
he needs to work on his 2-way game, and he needs to get bigger. He really looked overwhelmed a bit in the Sharks series.
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 18, 2010 10:05 PM MDT up reply actions
Some of that may have been due to the refs allowing felony assault on the part of the Sharks, whilst calling game misconducts against the Avs for mean looks at our heroes in teal.
just sayin’
/I also believe that his upper body injury was still in full force and effect.
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche - Much more gooderer than last year!
he gets pushed off the puck too easily. He’s 19, he’ll improve and get a workout plan and buff up. But right now, he plays a little small.
Again something I’m not worried about, because he’s 19 (O’Reilly has this problem too), but it’s certainly noticeable this season
The New Improved Avalanche. Now with Real Coaches!
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on May 18, 2010 10:19 PM MDT up reply actions
I understand what you're saying...
But Duchene was torn up about losing in the playoffs. Moreso than any other player on the team. I think he blamed himself for much of it. He also beat himself up for what he considered his poor play at the end of the season (or at least as he saw it).
This is a kid who spent the Olympic break working with his HS team and doing charity work, as well as working on his own game, rather than going to Mexico with the other guys. I believe, as soon as the World Championship is over, he’s going to get right to work with a trainer to bulk up and and address his weaknesses. He now knows what kind of strength he needs to play at the NHL level and I have little doubt he’s going to work in the off-season to get it. It’s going to be like Galiardi last year. We will see a noticeable transformation come training campt.
You might say, “He’s only 19. How much will his body allow him to bulk up?” As much as he wants to. I see it all the time with my students. You look at an 18-20 year old kid who says he’s starting to hit the gym and you think, “Good luck sweety.” The next thing you know, the guy’s pulled a Will Smith/Ali thing on you (and no it’s not steroids…they are drug tested regularly.)
I just see Duchene as a player who won’t settle for “letting” his game develop. I see him as a player who wants to be that elite player now and will do everything he can to make it happen. Anything less is unacceptable in his eyes.
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 19, 2010 11:26 AM MDT up reply actions
Even so, NHL Elite level is still a couple years off. Maybe not 25-26 as Jibbs said, but I seriously doubt we can call him NHL Elite at this time next year.
Thanks Joe...
Well, to be fair, I never said he was elite now nor would be next year. That was Jibbles’ word. I did say he wants to be elite but that’s probably something every player strives for. I do think Duchene will intensely fight for it right away even though it won’t happen right away. However, I still stand by my original thought: he will be a player that makes the other team say, “shit, here he comes again.”
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 20, 2010 11:35 AM MDT up reply actions
Is Kovalchuk really that bad defensively that we’re talking about that being the reason to not sign him? I don’t really recall that being a major problem… He might not be great in the D zone, but is he really THAT bad?
He’s a floater. He doesn’t engage opposing forwards well, he’s not overly physical along the boards and he tends to just occupy space in the offensive zone, try and read the play and jump the breakout. He’s typically neutral as far as his defensive zone impact and often a detriment against teams that cycle well or grind the puck low to high.
If we don't get our sauce, we ain't watching the game!
But if hes on a line with the excellent defensive talent of Stastny, and possibly a strongly defensive Stewie/Duke, I wouldn’t worry too much about it.
Thanks Joe...
You think Hotlanta didn’t try to cover up for his issues with linemates too? They had a defensive corp that rivals the Avs for ineptitude for years and I didn’t see them making any deep Cup runs with that philosophy.
Honestly, I don’t have a ton of heartburn about his hot-balloon ways, I’m more concerned about his lockerroom presence, ego, and long term cap implications.
If we don't get our sauce, we ain't watching the game!
Don’t you dare ruin the summer of Kovie!
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 19, 2010 9:35 AM MDT up reply actions
I’m kind of ambivalent on this one. Throw Kovi in the the lineup and you bump one of the 4th line forwards out. Call it Kovi for Porter. Next year the Avs score 40 more goals, just by replacing Porter with Kovi. It puts more talent in the lower three lines so they’re likely to score more. Will we give up more goals? Maybe on the top line, but the other 3 should actually be better. Suddenly our team goal differential gets better, maybe a lot better.
Will it get $8M better? Don’t know. Would that money be better spent on a lesser offensive talent (Sharp, etc.) and some defensive help? Don’t know. Glad I’m not making the decision.
It's all fun and games until someone blows up Detroit...then it's a PARTY!!!
by Busted Twigg on May 19, 2010 1:04 PM MDT up reply actions
Dunno either
but it’d sure be fun to watch!
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 19, 2010 1:09 PM MDT up reply actions
$$$ = Tickets
Sorry for the self-reply…
Just thought about what that $8M means. Over 41 home games with a $100/tix (WAG) average, Kovi needs to put about 2000 more butts in the seats every home game. Do you think he can do that?
It's all fun and games until someone blows up Detroit...then it's a PARTY!!!
by Busted Twigg on May 19, 2010 1:10 PM MDT up reply actions
Another way to look at it
Pre-cap era, the Avs were always one of the higher payroll teams in the league. How could they do that? In the NHL more than any other sport, teams make their money in the playoffs. If Kovie can just help to get the Avs 3 or 4 more home playoff games, hell yes he’d be worth it.
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 19, 2010 1:27 PM MDT up reply actions
Shhhhhhh! You’re ruining the summer of anti-Kovie!
If we don't get our sauce, we ain't watching the game!
I think you are starting to feel the Kovie.
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 19, 2010 2:48 PM MDT up reply actions
OK, at 18000 butts per playoff game and holding that $100/ticket price, it’s still going to take 5 home playoff games to gross $8M+, and that doesn’t include the additional arena lease payments, arena employees, etc. That’s about 2 average playoff series (5-6 games). All else being the same, maybe that works.
Will Kovi get us two rounds further than before? He clearly didn’t help NJ much.
I’d bet that these questions are being asked in Avalanche Central Command.
It's all fun and games until someone blows up Detroit...then it's a PARTY!!!
by Busted Twigg on May 19, 2010 3:07 PM MDT up reply actions
Kovie's in the air ....
I’m hoping they can get him for a cap friendly deal closer to $7M per. Plus, maybe he’s only taking a roster spot that would have been reserved for someone else making around $3M per? Therefore, you wouldn’t need so many playoff games to cover his salary.
PL completely understands the monetary value of having a great team running deep into the playoffs every year. Hopefully by now he has also figured out the salary cap.
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 19, 2010 3:20 PM MDT up reply actions
Plus
Playoff tickets get more expensive as the playoffs progress. In general, by the Cup finals they are double regular season price.
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 19, 2010 3:22 PM MDT up reply actions
I'm still not drinking the Kovy-Aid
Love his scoring capacity and talent.
Concerned about:
1. Salary & cap impact
2. Kovy first attitude in a very team centered squad
3. Absence of defense
4. Tendency to Wolski about
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche - Much more gooderer than last year!
I’m drinking the Kool-Aid that would bring us Parise. It’s mighty potent shit.
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 20, 2010 11:42 AM MDT up reply actions
There’s more to think about than just money, tho. Winning. The banner in the rafters. Can you put a price tag on that?
This is our team: underrated, filled with amazingly talented kids and veteran leaders, both young and old, who are buying into the vision of a hard working, fast moving, never-say-die game. They are the 2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche.
by Cheryl Bradley on May 20, 2010 11:41 AM MDT up reply actions
I would crunch the numbers, but DDC will do a better job of it than I ever could. I can wait until he does; we have the whole summer to banter about this.
Thanks Joe...
2010
The summer of Kovie.
Quitter's People United Member #33
"I am a business major in college after all." - One MHR commenter's rationale for knowing more about the Denver Broncos than I do. LOL.
by Bob in Boulder on May 17, 2010 12:58 PM MDT up reply actions
Goals
That’s all I want. I want someone who can fight for 40/50 goals. That would be sweet. Then Stastny could flirt with 90/100 assists.
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