Another Look at the Varlamov Deal
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 1, 2011 8:59 PM MDT
in Avalanche News & Notes
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While I love the signings of Jan Hejda, Chuck Kobasew and JS Giguere (had a feeling he'd see some time with the Avs before the end of his career), I'm still a little torn on the biggest move of the day, the trade for Semyon Varlamov. The Avalanche needed a young, talented goalie and they made the move to get him, and Paul Stastny wasn't shipped out to land him.I like that. Varlamov has the potential to be an anchor between the pipes in Denver for many, many years.
Then again, so did Craig Anderson. And Jose Theodore. And David Aebischer. And Peter Budaj. All of those guys, to some extent or the other, had an opportunity to be THE guy in Denver for the first time since Andrew Brunette drove a Saint into early retirement and all, to some extent or the other, failed. I can't really pin that on Varlamov, though.
Am I worried about Varlamov's injury history? Not really. If we're still talking about the groin two years from now, then I'll change my position. I am a little concerned, though, with some comments from Capitals' GM George McPhee after the trade:
In fact, we were close [on a contract] last weekend. The issue really was that he wanted...I think in his mind, guaranteed that he is the No, 1 guy and paid like that and we couldn't guarantee that, not with the competition that we have at that position. You really can't guarantee any player anything. They have to come in and prove themselves and earn it. Varly's a really good kid, he's a competitive kid, he's committed to being a really good player. We said come back and compete for it but he didn't seem to want to do that and the indication was that that wasn't there, then we was going to play over in Russia for a year.
There is nothing wrong with having a goalie that is extremely confident or even a little cocky. A little swagger is a good thing and you have to love a guy who wants to be #1. But when that guy is just 23 with only 78 NHL games under his belt...well, it does give me reason to pause. It sure sounds like Varlamov's opinion of his ability is higher right now than that of his GM. Or, at least that's how the guy who just traded him is painting it.
Mostly, of course, I'm worried about that #1 pick next year that the Avalanche gave up to get him. Yes, I know everyone is saying that the Avs should have just signed him to an offer sheet. And if that hadn't worked - if, for example, the Capitals matched, or if Varlamov didn't want to sign with the Avs - the Avalanche would be left holding their sticks in their hands working on Plan B and we'd be calling for Greg Sherman's job.
In the end, I'm glad they did what it took to go out and get him...but I am really getting tired of saying "gee, we sure gave up a lot to get ____" or "man, we couldn't get more for ____"? Craig Anderson netted nothing. John-Michael Liles was let go for too little. Colby Cohen? Ugh. And now we've given up a potential lottery pick for a goalie with some question marks. Much like the Erik Johnson trade, Varlamov is going to have to be REALLY FUCKING GOOD for this trade to be a fair deal. If Varlamov excels - and he can - the Avalanche are a potential playoff team and I won't mention this trade again, unless it's to praise Greg Sherman (and the guy pulling the strings, Pierre Lacroix). If he falters and the Avalanche limp to another terrible finish, then this becomes an absolute abomination of a trade.
The Avalanche continue to take big swings with the hammer to fix the holes in the lineup. Sometimes, though, repair jobs take more finesse than brute strength and this is definitely not a finesse move. The Avs are supposed to be a finesse team on the ice; I wouldn't mind seeing a little more of that finesse upstairs.
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George Mcphee committed highway robbery on this deal & I love it
Varly can’t stay healthy
lol
Until you see what kind of picks the Caps get, as well as how Varly develops (He’s 23 for Lord Howard’s sake! It takes goalies 5-6 years to really develop), then you have no idea what – if any – kind of robbery was committed.
I just love all the knee jerk reactions about a bunch of unknowns. So humorous.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 5, 2011 12:13 PM MDT up reply actions
forgot the poll.
and the link to Japers final grade: http://www.japersrink.com/2011/6/14/2222453/2010-11-rink-wrap-semyon-varlamov
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 1, 2011 9:07 PM MDT reply actions
I like the way they do their final reviews…
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 9:42 PM MDT up reply actions
I just really like how it reads like a timeline, well done
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 9:45 PM MDT up reply actions
Nailed it. And not even for Yakupov.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
by SteveHouse on Jul 1, 2011 9:09 PM MDT via mobile reply actions
Did you mean 1st round pick or #1 pick. Because that changes the whole tone of this story.
I am putting myself to the fullest possible use, which is all I think that any conscious entity can ever hope to do.
by Pinchy The Lobster on Jul 1, 2011 9:19 PM MDT reply actions
To give up what we did on someone with the injury history Varly has, it’s just not good business. Don’t get me wrong, I like the goalie, I like the timing, I like the contract, I just don’t like the asset mgmt.
"Put stick on ice, put puck in net"
Jones couldn’t stay healthy for his whole damn career and he finally got his shit together and played a whole season. Guys show some optimism, there’s nothing we can do about it. Varlamov is our goaltender and you have to have the hope that he can stay in and play 60-65 games next year for us.
My Johnson is better than your Johnson.
a couple things
I just want to say, I along with maybe 4 other people, were the only people initially who liked this trade. Everyone else was flippin shit like we just did a Kessel trade. Now all of a sudden, 60% for and 40% against, ha. Second, I do believe this team is a playoff team if we stay relatively healthy. We are a bit deeper on the blueline now, Duchene will continue to improve, and we can only hope Landy is what they said he will be. I am optimistic and have high hopes for this upcoming season.
by ProfessorOak on Jul 1, 2011 9:34 PM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Commenters are a small but vocal sample. I don’t believe you need to log in to vote in a poll though.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
That, and we all tend to be a bit reactionary.
I was not happy with this trade at the start, sounded like we paid a REALLY steep price.
But, after a little reading, and a little talking to my friend Andrew, I see the up-side and I’m ok.
I voted Like.
I’m cautiously optimistic, especially after the addition of JS as a mentor.
*sigh*
MHH - Home of the troll-ku
Good post and great point about Stastny. We’d feel 1000 times worse if we’d let Stastny go for a Varlamov/Bernier/Schnieder today instead of a pick (which im sure we’ll get back before the season ends)
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
I’m curious how you think we’re getting that pick back. Whose leaving?
My Johnson is better than your Johnson.
Look at the logjam of D and wingers? Hunwick, Galiardi, McClement, Cumiskey, Holos, Wilson any of those guys could see a rise in value and be a piece for a contender down the stretch. Kobasew puts Galiardi’s future in doubt to me
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 9:44 PM MDT up reply actions
I see that too, but I can’t see anyone giving us a 1st rounder for any of them.
My Johnson is better than your Johnson.
not now no… but after last season, everyone is poised for improvement and a team in injury troubles at the deadline could get desperate. I think despite their faults, this front office realizes how strong Pracey’s scouting team is and they’ll find a way to get him work
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 9:47 PM MDT up reply actions
I’m telling you, if this team is in free-fall before the deadline or even maybe if they win the cup and then in the summer, Stastny is gone for a first round pick. That seems to be Sherman’s mindset to me: He balances things. He already has something in mind to get that pick back.
Can we send Stastny to Edmonton for their First?
No one knows how to tank like them. And I don’t think RNH will be helping them too much THIS year.
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
As I said in my fanpost, I like having Varly here but the trade sent troubling signals about the front office that can’t be ignored.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
by Hardshell_Taco_del_Lowayne on Jul 1, 2011 9:38 PM MDT reply actions
This is exactly how I feel.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 9:39 PM MDT up reply actions
There’s not really anything the Mgmt risked, that was unnecessary. They know they have a team capable of going to the playoffs, which means the pick isn’t going to be high enough to matter much. There’s enough good talent coming through, and a 15th-23rd pick isn’t going to make a enough of a difference. People pretending to know how to manage hockey teams, questioning mgmt before knowing what’s really going on…ridiculous. I just read a bunch of posts on the Denver Post, from people who are regulars on MHH. It’s sad. Those people making those negative comments aren’t fans of the Avs. They’re mongoloids. They’re sh*t talking isn’t worth a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on.
...better luck next year.
by AlexanderH on Jul 1, 2011 9:49 PM MDT up reply actions 3 recs
Lol. I think there’s a difference between feeling uneasy about this trade and “pretending to know how to manage hockey teams.” I’ve no idea what the folks on DP said; I stopped reading that shit a couple of years ago. I do know, however, that it’s totally reasonable for me to be unsure about this.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 10:15 PM MDT up reply actions
Well, you agreed there are troubling signals from mgmt. Why is it even slightly troubling that mgmt has confidence in the liklihood that 1st rd pick won’t be higher than 15th-20th? Here’s nearly half of the ‘fans’ here >>>> "Hey Sherm, you TARD, what are you doing putting your FAITH in the TEAM? GOD!!! How are you still in OFFICE?!!!
Those are the people I can’t stand…like that NickQuebec guy. He’s just one of them.
...better luck next year.
Okay, half the fans here are not saying things like that. As for me, I am concerned that the management will make these big moves while still hugging the cap floor. Legitimate concern.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 10:39 PM MDT up reply actions
Is that management or ownership?
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 1, 2011 11:02 PM MDT up reply actions
The concern over the floor is a bit overblown
I mean, we have to sign essentially an entire roster next season. If they iced a $55 million team without any of that money being to long-term deals to some of our young core players, I’d be pretty worried about how we were gonna bring everybody back.
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
by A.J. Haefele on Jul 1, 2011 11:53 PM MDT up reply actions
Hence my concern for the future…
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 11:55 PM MDT up reply actions
Those people rioting in Vancouver aren’t hockey fans!
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:51 PM MDT up reply actions
You’re right…they’re not fans. They’re idiots, either going to the games because it’s the Canadian sport, the cool thing to do, or they’re too dumb to stand up for their team in tough times. Not fans, not one bit.
...better luck next year.
Look at it this way. It wouldn’t be okay any of the players to start trashing the big decisions, especially decisions like the Varlamov trade. So, I don’t understand why people who call themselves fans think it’s OK to trash those kinds of decisions. They can’t be easy. That’s for sure. I just can’t stand those glass-is-half-empty people, who just want to trash talk. They’re like the plague.
...better luck next year.
You know, our fearless leader Joe once put up a great post about this exact concept. Worth checking out.
Darcy Tucker.
Darcy Tucker.
Darcy Tucker.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 11:40 PM MDT up reply actions
It isn't the same, though.
Being realistic =/= being pessimistic.
AlexanderH isn’t talking about realists.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:08 AM MDT up reply actions
Except his first comment (and really, whole argument) is in response to my and Taco’s concern over this move. There’s nothing pessimistic about either of our opinions. To take what we have said and call it “trash talking” is exactly what that video is all about.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 1:14 AM MDT up reply actions
It was in response to you...
…but about the “posts on the Denver Post, from people who are regulars on MHH.” And shit-talking.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:30 AM MDT up reply actions
Exactly. MHHers. In response to me. “Half the people here.” Shit talking. I’m sorry, but the majority of people who are regulars on MHH do far more analysis and far less shit talking. Yes, a lot of people had big reactions to this deal at first, unhappy with the picks that were given up. After time to think about it, digest it, and evaluate it, most of those people have come to accept it and understand it’s a “wait and see” situation. To say that people are not “real Avs fans” because they disagree with the deal and have emotional reactions to it is like saying that they must hate the Avs if they say anything bad about them.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 1:45 AM MDT up reply actions 5 recs
Of course it would be okay for the players to be upset with a poor trade and to say so, if it weren’t for this thing where you’d be trash talking your boss in a public forum, and ostensibly you like having a job playing hockey for a living. Since the organ-I-zation actually expects me to pay them, I think I’m well within my right to complain about the quality of the product I’m being sold. Hockey’s a business. If you got food poisoning from a bacon burger you ate, would you refuse to say you had a terrible bacon burger that made you ill because you’re a Real Bacon Fan™?
Landeskog + Siemens :D
by SteveHouse on Jul 1, 2011 11:40 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, it seems like you’re talking about rights, not necessarily what is right. I don’t think it’s right to trash talk, especially about a decision which hasn’t played out. I don’t even see the point of it. Of course everyone has the right, and the right to be concerned, but it’s not really the right thing for a fan to do. There’s only one way to go, and that’s up, and that’s all I care about. I just think it’s annoying when so many people have to focus on negative things. I’m talking about the people who just want to straight up trash talk. I’ve seen it everywhere today, and there’s no denying it. It’s just sad to see so much negativity from ‘fans’. I don’t know what that has to do with burgers, but I wouldn’t compare a burger with the Varlamov trade. It’s really simple. The Avs can make it to the playoffs, and if you want them to get there, you plan on it. You don’t plan on them not making the playoffs, planning on a high draft pick in the first round, holding onto it with dear life. It’s just dumb. “Yeah, we have all this talent, but we’re still gonna suck this year, so let’s plan on that #5-#10 pick, cause that’s what winners do.” That’s just not right. Yeah, people have the right, but it’s not right. That’s all I’m saying.
...better luck next year.
Darcy Tucker.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 12:33 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I looked at the Darcy thing, but I can’t see the video. What happened in the video? I assume Darcy Tucker was either trash talking or ‘being realistic’, or he was telling others not to trash talk. Am I close?
...better luck next year.
The link isn’t working? Or you can’t see the video? Both are working fine for me.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 1:10 AM MDT up reply actions
Working here, too.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:12 AM MDT up reply actions
How's this for reactionary....
I don’t care for your self righteous judgement of how I choose to behave as a fan. Whether or not I like (and/or liked) this deal or not you telling me how to behave means about as little as you could possibly imagine.
I’m not saying it’s not ok to disagree with other fans or laugh at them for posting on DP, but to say that questioning a team’s management makes one a bad fan goes way beyond your being a fan and treads into the territory of you being an ass.
Let people judge. Laugh if you think they are wrong. Don’t read the DP comments.
by Paul X on Jul 2, 2011 7:58 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I really wish he coulda watched the video.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 10:29 AM MDT up reply actions
And become an expert
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2011 2:34 PM MDT up reply actions
I think we have a right to question the decisions by management because they are giving us plenty of reasons, not just this one trade. Fans have been told for the last 2 to 3 years that the Avs are building from with in and not spending money in free agency. We have all this great talent in the farm system and we are building through the draft.
Now look at what we have done since the start of last year. We have traded away 2 young rookies that were suppose to be the future. We traded away one of our best young offensive talents. We traded away a 30 year old defenseman and then signed a 33 year old defenseman. We trade away our first and possibly our second round picks next year for a goalie who already has injury concerns and wasn’t the clear #1 on his own team. Also if you look at 2 of our other trades last year, less than one year later we have absolutely nothing to show for the players we gave away Anderson and Hannan.
This does not sound like the moves done by a team building from within and the draft. So sorry if I don’t always smile when I feel like I am being fed BS.
Fans have been told for the last 2 to 3 years that the Avs are building from with in and not spending money in free agency. We have all this great talent in the farm system and we are building through the draft.
And this year the fans were told by Sherman and Sakic that the team was going to go out and acquire a goaltending solution. Which it appears they did.
As for the rest of your comment. See my fanpost on this team when Sherman started, and this team now, i think it may change your mind
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 2, 2011 3:46 PM MDT up reply actions
I hope this wasn’t at me, because my comment was purely a joke.
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 2, 2011 4:05 PM MDT up reply actions
All you are saying is it’s not right to do something I have the right to do… Wat.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
by SteveHouse on Jul 2, 2011 1:07 AM MDT via mobile up reply actions
That's logical.
You have the right to kick someone in the nads, but that doesn’t mean it’s right.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:12 AM MDT up reply actions
Actually you don’t have that right. it’s called assault.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 1:15 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, so I don’t know what the Darcy Tucker thing is about. I can’t look at the video. I just know I don’t like people trash talking their team. If you ask an Avs fan who believes in the team and mgmt, and hopes for the best, where they expect their 1st rd pick to land this year…the answer should be no higher than 20th. It’s that simple. There are too many people who think giving up the 1st rd pick for a good goalie was the equivalent of blasting Duchene with an IED, like something horrible just happened. I just think it’s annoying. People who assume our pick will be high enough, that it will actually matter we traded it away for Varlamov are expecting the Avs to fail this year. I just don’t understand why a fan should expect that, even if they have a reason for it. Am I wrong? I mean, are there people who really think that trading a #16 or #20 pick is not worth a shot at a sweet-ass goalie? If so, I can’t imagine why…
...better luck next year.
See, that’s what the video is all about. There’s absolutely no reason why I can’t realistically say this team may not make the playoffs again. We have one top 6 left winger with a very serious history of concussions who may not be able to play. We have a top 6 right winger with a very significant history of random injuries who was heralded for having over 70 games played last season. We have multiple reclamation projects. We have two new goaltenders who both have had major injury issues recently, one of whom is only 23 and the other is about to retire. We have a defense that will be relying on Hunwick and Cumiskey, as well as rookies like Gaunce (who I love, btw), Holos (also love), Barrie, Elliott, etc. We have a forward corps with a ton of question marks. Will Galiardi step back up or will he be the guy that got sent down last year? Will we have to see Olver, Porter or Yip on the top two lines? Will Hishon make the team and, if so, be able to compete at the NHL level?
So many question marks. All of that makes me think, “Man, we could be looking at another losing season.” However, anyone who knows me can tell you I’m 100% behind this team. I love this team. And I absolutely believe that if things go right, this team will make the playoffs and even into the second or later rounds. But we don’t know if it will go right. So saying, “I have doubts” is natural. It does not mean AT ALL that I don’t like the team or don’t believe in the team or whatever.
Being realistic about what this team is and could be does not equate to being a bad fan.
Sorry for rambling on but that argument is a huge pet peeve of mine.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:14 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
I always look at my fandom this way
My mind says the trade for Varly is risky and potential disastrous. On defense, I like EJ, Hejda, Quincey, O’Byrne….then questions marks due to players being rookies or struggling last year (Hunwick, Cumiskey). On offense, I like our centers but the wings also have question marks due to being rookies (Landeskog and maybe Hishon), or struggling (Porter, Yip, Gally kinda). Also, there is that injury factor.
So yeah, in my head there is concern about the team being in lottery town again. I can’t say one way or the other if they will suck or make the playoffs though. Nobody can.
In my heart, I want and predict the Avs will go 82-0 and just annihilate the rest of the league. I support the Avs 100% and believe the team and the fans want the same thing. The question is HOW.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
My Twitter
both are the injury question marks mentioned.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:29 AM MDT up reply actions
Yeah I kinda just threw out a blanket statement for injuries. Too many to name.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
My Twitter
I got yo back
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:32 AM MDT up reply actions
so much THIS!
Thanks, InYo and Cheryl for your well thought out and intelligent responses.
*sigh*
MHH - Home of the troll-ku
Hence why you should be arrested.
But you can’t arrest someone until they’ve actually committed the crime, so they’re given the right to choose to do it.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 3:58 AM MDT up reply actions
Please tell me more.
I am putting myself to the fullest possible use, which is all I think that any conscious entity can ever hope to do.
by Pinchy The Lobster on Jul 1, 2011 9:43 PM MDT up reply actions
http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/7/1/2255526/varlamov-deal-sends-a-signal-to-fans
Its a cap floor issue at the root, but the team is trading picks like a contender.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
by Hardshell_Taco_del_Lowayne on Jul 1, 2011 9:55 PM MDT up reply actions
I pretty much agreed with you in my own post (and I didn’t even read your post first)
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:37 PM MDT up reply actions
Your post actually made me feel better about this. Like you both are saying, it still comes down to “are they going to use that cap space to fill the holes or not?” If they do, sweet. I’m okay with the trade. If not….well, you know.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 10:42 PM MDT up reply actions
I look at is as an advance on next year. We traded an asset from next season for one this year. That’s good, but that changes things too.
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:48 PM MDT up reply actions
Ask yourself this. Where would you go in the last years of your goalie career for the best chance to win a cup? Colorado?? Or a team like Washington or Philly?
If I wasn’t already intoxicated I would have a way better point here.
I am putting myself to the fullest possible use, which is all I think that any conscious entity can ever hope to do.
by Pinchy The Lobster on Jul 1, 2011 9:53 PM MDT reply actions
Oh yeah. My point was that maybe, just maybe the Avs did all they could to get that motherfucker here. And he does’nt want any of it.
I am putting myself to the fullest possible use, which is all I think that any conscious entity can ever hope to do.
by Pinchy The Lobster on Jul 1, 2011 9:55 PM MDT up reply actions
I accept your drunken commentary. I like our roster next year. Just wish we haven’t given up the best draft picks to assemble it.
"Put stick on ice, put puck in net"
I like our roster next year. Just wish we haven’t given up the best draft picks to assemble it.
This is exactly how I feel.
by xskatebakerrx on Jul 1, 2011 10:26 PM MDT up reply actions
From what little I have seen of him
Varlamov has the potential to be an absolute beast, health permitting of course. The injury history is troubling, of course, but if his claims that the Caps rushed him back before he was healthy are true then maybe he isn’t injury-prone the way his reputation makes him out to be.
The fact that he put up numbers anywhere in the same neighborhood as Vokoun behind a Caps team that didn’t believe in defense has me excited to see what he can do behind our revamped blueline!
I do see some logjams that will be cleared out this season before the trade deadline. Whether that jam is on D, our bottom 6, however you see it, I do think more trades will happen before the next trading deadline, most likely for draft picks. The upcoming draft is too deep for our management to not try to position the Avs to take advantage of it in some way. I do hope they can regain a 1st round pick via trade, that pick was indeed a steep price to pay for Varlamov. But if we make the top 8 this year (which I firmly belive we will), and give our obscenely young team some more playoff experience, then to hell with the draft. I love the talent we have assembled and can’t wait to see it on the ice!!!
All I know is I’m looking forward to seeing our goalies play. I remember seeing Varlamov at the top of the charts, thinking about how awesome it would be to have a goalie like that on the Avs. It looks to me like Varlamov has as good or better than Anderson. If that’s the case, the trade was a no-brainer. I agree with you, kraken09. Good way to look at the situation.
...better luck next year.
The group of 23-year-olds we have is pretty awesome: Varly, EJ, Gali, and Mueller. Assuming they can all stay healthy, what a crop that is.
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
Hejduk is number 23, so I move to include him. And Hejda’s name is a lot like Hejduk, so him too.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
Rant for the Day
everyone keeps says spending is an issue and I’ll give it to you that spending has been tight last couple of seasons but who did you really want them to go out and throw money at this year? The FA pool was very week… Brad Richards?? we don’t need a center…vokoun? Hes 35 who probably wants decent years too i don’t want another old goalie thats just a bandaid solution we are in need of a true franchise goalie and varlamov has the potential to be that….sure theres risk involved with varlamov there is always risk involved in trades thats life but the upside is huge….i’m not saying i’m in love with the trade and that im ready to give the shermentator the key to the city I’m saying that our goal-tending situation needed to be fixed and they took a serious step to try and fix it….at least the whole build from within bull shit is gone and the team is actually attempting to get better
thank you. I dont see this as a money move
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:18 PM MDT up reply actions
Well, except they haven’t spent any money? There’s a laundry list of guys from last year. There’s a handful of guys from this year.
I see no indication that Kroenke wants the team to be anything but a low payroll team. You can believe whatever you like. But the facts are, they haven’t proven it yet. By next Summer, they can’t hide it. We will know one way or another.
I'll keep this brief.
We could have thrown money at random free agents like Florida instead of actually filling holes in our roster.
Some days, I feel like I’ve accidentally entered the Church of Tulowitzki on Baseball Easter.
SB Nation Denver | On Twitter | Random Music Writings
There’s a whole lot of options between these two extremes I’d be a lot happier with…
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:47 PM MDT up reply actions
He doesn’t have to be REALLY FUCKING GOOD for this deal to work. If he has over a .910 save percentage and the Avs finish in the top 20 in the league, then I’d say he’s worth a mid to late first round draft pick.
=================== 21 ===================
yeah, well I think he’ll have to be REALLY FUCKING GOOD for either of these to happen
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 1, 2011 10:15 PM MDT up reply actions 4 recs
I think your underestimating the improvement on defense. The Johnson-Hejda pairing will get 21+ minutes a night
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:19 PM MDT up reply actions
I am really stoked about our defense
I think they are building it around a move to the Pacific, and we all know the 5’10" PMD wasn’t going to make it there… I love me some Liles, but I love me some size more in that division!
DDC, you make a REALLY FUCKING GOOD point. But I still don’t think he’ll need to be all that. Giggy still has some left in the tank. And the Defense/Offense should be improved. He just needs to be PRETTY FUCKING GOOD. Also, Mueller should be REALLY FUCKING HEALTHY, or I’ll be REALLY FUCKING MAD.
=================== 21 ===================
by BraxtanFILM on Jul 1, 2011 10:22 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
For Mueller to be REALLY FUCKING HEALTHY, we’ll need a REAL FUCKING MIRACLE. Counting on Mueller, if that is what the Avs are doing, is A REALLY FUCKING MASSIVELY HUGE MISTAKE.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Jul 2, 2011 1:16 PM MDT up reply actions
I agree with you on that. He won’t have to be Anderson with 51 saves good but he’s going to have to have a pretty low GAA because I’m not confident the Avs have the scoring depth to out gun a lot of teams in the West right now. I just hope and pray the Avs get the whole PP on track with EJ / Mueller / Elliot and co., they can hide some 5v5 weaknesses that way.
I'll keep this brief.
management probably looks at it from the viewpoint of whoever wrote that article about the last three years of drafting (apologies to whoever wrote it and hope you guys know the one im talking about) we addressed needs at center defense and got a winger…we have stalked our closet with young talent and have built through the draft now unless we wanna be like florida (not including today) and be in a ten year rebuild we’ve done a lot and some would say as much as we can right now through draft ( i say this as i don’t see drafting as a means of addressing an immediate goalie situation which im sure yall would agree with me on)….from that viewpoint it looks acceptable to give up a 1st and 2nd rounder for a goalie
My only worry is that 2012 is supposed to be a VERY good draft. We kinda missed out in ‘05 on some spiffy talent. Yes, we netted Stazz at 44, but just imagine what we could have gotten in the first. I’m just worried that ‘12 is the next ’05 and we wont get our first pick until 50something (Boston’s second rounder)
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
Imagine what we could have gotten in the first?
Stastny is, at minimum, in the top 10 of players taken in that draft. I’d go as far as saying that there are only 2 or 3 guys I’d trade Stastny for straight up (Crosby, and possibly Yandle and Kopitar).
I’m not saying that the Avs will get another Stastny out of the Boston pick, but the flip side of not having a 1st in a very deep draft is that your later picks are also more likely to turn up a good player than in a less deep draft.
Look at 2003, which is in the discussion for the best draft ever. Sure, some of the best players in that draft came in the top 10 (Staal, Suter) and others were mid to late first round (Getzlaf, Parise, Kesler, Perry). But there were still a lot of good players taken outside the first round. That’s where Loui Eriksson, Patrice Bergeron, Shea Weber, David Backes, Tobias Enstrom, and Dustin Byfuglien were taken. All but Eriksson were taken at 45th or lower. As long as the Avs don’t collapse next year, I wouldn’t be too worried about the 1st rounder.
by ExiledAmongYou on Jul 2, 2011 12:59 AM MDT up reply actions
Capgeek says Varlamov at 3 years $8.5 million. $2.5, $3, $3
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:21 PM MDT reply actions
glad to see 3 years instead of 2
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:24 PM MDT up reply actions
me too! Yay for contracts beyond the CBA!
Hopefully Picard is ready by then, just to cover our bases
and, barring a change, he’ll still be a year away from UFA when his contract is up
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 1, 2011 10:52 PM MDT up reply actions
I really like the terms being discussed for Varly(2/3 years). I like it because in the case that Varly doesnt perform, Pickard should be ready by then to take over. If Varly does perform up to his potential, it turns Pickard into trade bait. I think NJ will be needing a new goalie by then.
BTW any soli confermation on what exactly the term is?
Is Capgeek posting real contracts? I noticed Cole posted 3 yrs, $8.5M…Capgeek.
...better luck next year.
ya they are always really reliable
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:30 PM MDT up reply actions
I dont think this affect Pickard at all. Most top flight goalies start as backups. this looks like 2 years of giggy back-up before Pickard gets a shot (which is about right for his development) and then Varly has a year to protect his job with Pickard as the backup before reevaluation? Thats all speculation, but it fits ok
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 10:31 PM MDT up reply actions
Ya I didnt mention it in the post, but that was the idea that I had, Pickard becoming a backup in the third year. Kinda like what Scheider is doing right now.
I really really wanted Schneider
No chance of trading for him, I know, but that kid is going to be a game changer for many years IMO
Not to flog a dead horse, but wtf is VAN planning for Schneider? Lou gets paid way too much to sit on the bench as a back-up and I can’t see anyone else dumb enough to pay him that kind of money. Schneider is not long for Vancouver – he’s to good not to be a starter soon and VAN already has Lou locked up for eternity.
That's no moon...
The French
Absolute joke of a deal. This guy has played less than 60 games in the NHL and the AV’s offer up a 1st and 2nd rounder? Not to mention Varly is 23 years old. How many goalies have come into their own under the age of 28? Try about 20 percent. This is all a product of having a non hockey man as a GM. First Stewart and now Varly….1 step forward (Landeskog), 2 steps backward (Giguere and Varly). This team needs to shed itself of Lacroix and his self appointed pawns.
Goalie Varlamov
His potential is not reached
uncertain future
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:56 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Especially when
They are in reply to the
Rantings of a troll
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 1, 2011 11:30 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Troll he may not be.
He may yet speak intelli—
Lol nah, he trollin
Landeskog + Siemens :D
by SteveHouse on Jul 1, 2011 11:41 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
greetings from Japers Rink
Personally, Varly was my favourite player on the Caps, and I wanted him to be the number 1. But, like most of my fellow Caps fans, we are very, very happy with this trade. You guys got fleeced. Not because Varly is a bad player. He’s not; he has the potential to be an elite goaltender with some maturity. That potential is very strong. But you guys’ front office really appears to have mismanaged his acquisition.
His injury problems arise from the fact that his movements are so explosive, putting a whole lot of stress on his joints and ligaments. This is something that may be able to be addressed with coaching and training. But if he doesn’t change his style, expect to deal a good bit with brittlegroin. In fact, I found myself, as a straight man, rather amused at how much I cared about this man’s groin. It’s good that you guys picked up another quality netminder. You’ll likely need him
Varly also tends to struggle with stopping hemmoraging (sp?). If the other team pots two quick ones, you could be in for some trouble. When he’s on, which he is the vast majority of the time, he has the potential to make all the saves that he should, and many that he shouldn’t. He is a highly gifted athlete, and is a big upgrade over what the Avs had before. If it weren’t for injury problems and a pesky Czech named Michal Neuvirth, this guy would be the Caps long-term solution in goal.
Also, it’s pronounced Var-LA-mov.
Personally, Varly was my favourite player on the Caps, and I wanted him to be the number 1.
He was, or was he 40
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:41 PM MDT up reply actions
I know what you meant, I was being a smartass.
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 10:44 PM MDT up reply actions
greetings from Japers Rink
In fact, I found myself, as a straight man, rather amused at how much I cared about this man’s groin.
That’s some funny shit right there, and an issue that I’m sure will be brought up over the next 4 years in the MHH community
Thank God Johnson blocked that blast, saving Varly’s groin from a pounding
xD We should really just change our team to the Colorado Lolpenis.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
I don't know how to photoshop an Avs jersey on an animated .gif, but oh well...
The Colorado Llama-Peni
NHL UFAs: Apply within
by Guitarpick8120 on Jul 1, 2011 10:55 PM MDT up reply actions
Llama-Peni > Bernie (the current mascot)
Profit?
In an emergency, Matt Duchene can be used as a floatation device.
Todd Helton always drives in reverse... and he still drives better than you.
Kids seem to like Bernie.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:12 AM MDT up reply actions
Another Japers Rink big Varly fan here. Varly was the best of the bunch for the Caps but couldn’t win the starting job due to injury. He’s a very good goalie with a lot of potential if he could just cut down on the injuries. The Caps goalie coach Arturs Irbe thought if Varly could modify his playing style a little he could reduce on the injuries. I hope you get a good goalie coach to work with Varly. He improved a lot under Irbe, last season was his best season.
Varly has reduced his tendency to hemorrhage as mentioned above. I think Varly was only pulled from one game the past season due to not playing well. That was a game against Anaheim where the Caps reverted back to their run and gun style and everyone forgot to play defense so it wasn’t all Varly. His one other bad game was against the Rangers as seen on 24/7. He never had to leave a game early either due to injury. Just an FYI, it’s not only his groin, he’s injured his knee multiple times as well since coming to this country, and had minor surgery on it in Feb/March this season. He came back playing well from that injury but he had already lost the playoff starting position by then, although many Caps fans thought he should have started.
On a personal level, Varly is a very nice, likeable guy who seemed to get along with all his teammates, even his main competitor Neuvirth. They ended up being roomies on the road, although he was BFFs with Semin and Ovie. You’d like Varly, he has a great smile and a fun laugh. His English is ok but don’t expect him to do many interviews with the press in English. In DC there were almost always Russian reporters around who would translate for him in his rare interviews or the Caps had a Russian speaking PR guy. He gave more interviews in Russian to the Russian press.
The whole contract negotiations were a bad episode, but I think a lot of that was driven by Varly’s Russian agent trying to get him to play in the KHL. Varly has consistently said over the years that his childhood dream was to play in the NHL. He gave an recent interview in the past couple weeks where he said his goals were to win a Stanley Cup, a Vezina, and a Conn Smythe. You don’t need to worry about him bolting to the KHL while he has a contract in the NHL. You might need to worry about him bolting after the contract is finished if he hasn’t fired that idiot Russian agent by then.
I hope you get a good goalie coach to work with Varly.
We haven’t had a full-time goalie coach for a while.
…speaking of that, didn’t McLean sign for another year today? And if so is it still that crappy “part-time goalie consultant” bullshit?
Landeskog + Siemens :D
I hope you get a good goalie coach to work with Varly.
we’re screwed.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 1, 2011 11:48 PM MDT up reply actions
No worries about the interviews
The 1 beat reporter and the 2 tv/radio guys here in Bronco Land don’t seem real pushy.
The whole Russian agent thing bothers me, especially after I read his PD quotes about Russian doctors being better than doctors in the US. (Might not have helped that I read it in my Yakov Smirnoff voice.)
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jul 2, 2011 2:32 AM MDT up reply actions
ooooh, he was the one that said that about the docs in russia? i don’t know whether to laugh or shake my head or both.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:34 AM MDT up reply actions
Idunno if it’s been mentioned yet. But, Capgeek.com is reporting that Varly’s cap hit is $2,833,333 for 3 years.
by c0nquistad0rian on Jul 1, 2011 10:40 PM MDT reply actions
I actually see this trade as less of a risk than the Johnson-Stewart trade.
There, we traded real, developed, quality players. Here, we traded unknown assets that could be up to several years from panning out, if they ever do.
Do I wish we could have traded less in exchange for Varlamov? Absolutely. But I am more comfortable with the long term of this trade initially than I was with the Johnson deal.
Some days, I feel like I’ve accidentally entered the Church of Tulowitzki on Baseball Easter.
SB Nation Denver | On Twitter | Random Music Writings
Bold trades have the best chance for a grand reward...
I remember being pissed when we punted Deader for Blake. I just couldn’t understand what we were doing until I saw Blake on the ice. I think the same applies here. At first I was confused… But after watching video clips and reading articles that date back to last season, I feel the Avs got the best available goalie. As for the draft picks we gifted away, I would rather have a top tier goalie than have another promising forward.
In an emergency, Matt Duchene can be used as a floatation device.
Todd Helton always drives in reverse... and he still drives better than you.
haha that's a bit different
Rob Blake was a legit All-Star and Top 5 defenseman in the NHL at the time. We gave up proven and unproven (lol Aulin) commodities to land as close to a sure thing as you can get. This is waaaaaaay different. Every piece in this trade is a big ????
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
by A.J. Haefele on Jul 2, 2011 12:45 AM MDT up reply actions
Should I mention that there’s been no word on Erik Johnson since he missed the end of the season with a concussion? Should we mention that he deleted his twitter account for some reason? ( I can’t find it ). Deep down in my pessimistic black soul I’m wondering if he’ll be OK for the start of the year.
Or is now a bad time?
I'll keep this brief.
Didn’t he tweet “Welcome” to Landy when he was selected last week? I know Duchene did, but I could’ve sworn EJ did as well.
NHL UFAs: Apply within
by Guitarpick8120 on Jul 1, 2011 10:58 PM MDT up reply actions
Texted him I think. Might have called him. We only know about it because of Landeskog at the NHL network panel.
Landeskog + Siemens :D
I thought I saw it flash across TSN’s ticker as they were talking about the pick.
NHL UFAs: Apply within
by Guitarpick8120 on Jul 1, 2011 11:01 PM MDT up reply actions
Yeah...
Most of us real Avs fans love this team, regardless of draft picks we lose. So of course we love a trade that brings in our moat promising goalie since Roy retired.
In an emergency, Matt Duchene can be used as a floatation device.
Todd Helton always drives in reverse... and he still drives better than you.
I google EJ;s Twitter, didnt get anything, checked all of the people Duchene is following and didnt see EJ, wierd. But I dont think thats its some kind of red flag that he deleted his account.
Maybe Dater can get us an update on EJ.
Do we have an official nickname for Landeskog yet? Ive seen Kog, Landy, Lando?
Cant wait until we have to make a nickname for Siemens, that’ll be fun
Kogger
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 11:23 PM MDT up reply actions
i do like this one. Though it is lacking in Norse mythology
LANDESKOG!!!!!
How Swede it is
by Cole D Hamilton on Jul 1, 2011 11:28 PM MDT up reply actions
Sorry
KOGGER!
does that at least make it sound more epic?
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jul 1, 2011 11:42 PM MDT up reply actions
Screw playing a game, we have his new nickname.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 1:16 AM MDT up reply actions
Frogger.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 2, 2011 4:01 AM MDT up reply actions
The list is Landy, Thor, Lando, Kog, King Kog, and Archangel if I remember correctly. I think I might be leaving one or two out though.
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
I think I like Thor
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jul 2, 2011 7:57 AM MDT up reply actions
I really dis-like Thor,
not even really sure why.
I’ve been leaning toward Kog or The Kog.
*sigh*
MHH - Home of the troll-ku
I’m the opposite. (a) I love Thor and the whole story anyway and (b) Kog makes me think of “just another cog in the wheel” which makes him sound ordinary.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 10:32 AM MDT up reply actions
Wait until he's actually played a game.
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jul 1, 2011 11:34 PM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
Gabe the Babe.
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jul 2, 2011 2:34 AM MDT up reply actions
Or Pinto.
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jul 2, 2011 2:35 AM MDT up reply actions
just got back from the rockies game and the bars! seeing as i’m drunk and yaddrajiggity. I’m just excited to see all these new guys in Avs unis! yeah buddy! being drunky is spunky cause draft picks, yeah i don’t care, we got a no. 1 goalie who is gonna be the tits next year (better be) and that’s supa cool. suba cool. suba Rooo! i’m stoked. talk logic tomo when i is mas sobah yaddra mean>
Sports don't build character, they reveal it
by Cotts on Jul 2, 2011 1:29 AM MDT reply actions 5 recs
same here
im a firm believer that injuries killed any momentum we ever had of being good. HAving said that, we have a better goalie tandem, added some D (did we need D?) and we didnt lose our best players.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Can someone explain to me....
how we are a lottery team next year?
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
I don’t think any reasonable argument has said the Avs WILL be a lottery team next year. However, when you’ve had a top 3 pick in two of the last three years, there’s a decent chance it will happen again.
If injuries hit the way they did last year (including the two new injury-prone goalies the Avs just signed) then a lottery position is not that unrealistic.
If injuries don’t hit and the young guys can find their stride, then the playoffs are not unrealistic.
This is totally a wait and see situation.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 1:58 AM MDT up reply actions
Because he’s lost significant time to groin injuries and surgeries.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:18 AM MDT up reply actions
Everything is wait and see…I have way more faith in Varly for having some NHL exp’s than Kogs having never played in the NHL. It’s understood we MAY have over paid for Varly’s rights but all that is wait and see as well.
I’m so stoked that my team made moves; I’m now shown that they care.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Perhaps I’m reading into it, but you seem to think I don’t have any faith in the guy, that I hate what the Avs are doing, and that I think it’s all bound to be a failure. If so, you are very mistaken.
This is a huge risk, huge reward deal. Yes, the risk concerns me. Yes, I’m excited about what the reward might bring. It doesn’t have to be one or the other.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:20 AM MDT up reply actions
none of this is directed to you, im just glad you’re still up wanting to talk about our Avs
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Bad day. Can’t sleep.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:24 AM MDT up reply actions
crap
sorry, thought someone else posted this. combined previous conversations with this. disregard my other comment…the reading into things one. oops. =/
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:32 AM MDT up reply actions
But I don’t want to wait. I wanna see hockey!!!! =)
by Paulo Saraiva on Jul 2, 2011 10:58 PM MDT up reply actions
It is kinda disturbing that we made these moves and still are near the floor, but at the same time, I don’t feel we are completely outmatched roster wise,
I’m a full on believer that our injuries last year are an anomaly and wont happen again next year, We had ZERO chemistry after switching line ups, playing 15-16? different D-lines, the whole season was a joke due to injuries.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Yeah. I’m liking this roster more. The D looks better, at least on paper. Varly/Giggy is better than Budaj/Elliot.
Not so keen on the winger depth but if someone out of the Olver/Porter/Yip and to a lesser extent, Gally, can be more of a factor than last year when the inevitable injury hits, I think they will be okay.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
My Twitter
I’m really looking forward to watching the D. And the bottom six forwards are going to be threatening lines. But the top six? I’m still a bit concerned cuz of the wingers, like you said. If Gali is going to be top six again…sigh. I love the guy but I REALLY love him on the third line. And the goalies? They have to be better than last year, right? RIGHT?
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:41 AM MDT up reply actions
Winger/Forward Depth
I’d love to have a set “top 6”; it seems like this team had guys who CAN play top 6 on a good day but it’s hard to ink a top 6.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Yeah
Good point. It’s really just Stats, Duchene, and Hejduk (who barely fits that role anymore unfortunately but would look terrible on the bottom 6).
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
My Twitter
Not sure if this was brought up
I wonder if the Avs were more willing to give up next years 1st round pick because they had two this year.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
My Twitter
You have a point. There’s also the chance of having two seconds next year with the Boston (via Blues) pick and their own if the Caps choose to wait until 2013 for the conditional.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 2, 2011 2:36 AM MDT up reply actions
Something l forgot to say.
I’ve always liked Varlamov. While everybody else was spinning circles after the trade was announced, I let out a barely audible, high-pitched, “squeee”. It was loud enough for a co-worker of mine to hear though and they proceeded to ask me if the high school Quarterback said he would attend my sweet 16 birthday party.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
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they proceeded to ask me if the high school Quarterback said he would attend my sweet 16 birthday party.
Well, will he?
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jul 2, 2011 2:45 AM MDT up reply actions
Yes! But I hope he doesn’t bring Becky because last night I heard she cheated on him with Billy who is totes gross. Like, oh my god, he’s a freshman! She’s such a slut.
My new comedy blog. Robot Hooker Party
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by InYoFace on Jul 2, 2011 2:48 AM MDT up reply actions 4 recs
Well then.
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kill Sherman. Kill Sakic. They can’t run a tem. They are scrubs. Oh my god a 1st round pick!!!!!! We’ll never see one a again. This is worse than Burke trading two 1sts for 40 goals a year and the Avs traded one 1st for 40 wins.
Yeah. GOALIES ARE EXPENSIVE. TEAMS DO NOT LET THEGO FOR NOTHING.
I praise Sherman for doing it; pulling it off swiftly Addressing an issue even if it hurts a bit at first. The Avs ave a goalie, a deeper blue line and some veteran presence on the 4th line. Let’s enjoy talking about the new lineup and how Toronto still has no 1st line center.
In April, we’ll come back and discuss whether Valry was worth whatever pick the Avs gave.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
by c6hor8 on Jul 2, 2011 6:13 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
Even in April, we won't know.
Varly’s Avalanche career and that of the pick we gave up will ultimately judge the trade. This is way too long-term of a deal to judge after one year.
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
I think it all might boil down to this:
We make playoffs – worth it.
We have Tank 2.0 – probably not worth it/much harder to justify
However, since this is a huge move, it means the Avs MUST win games this year. Last year, when we started tanking, we knew we could still get a high pick. This year, we’d be screwed. There is MUCH MUCH more riding on us making playoffs now. I think Varly can help us get there, but that’s a lot to put on a 23-year-old goalie. But that’s the way it is. He has to be “the man”. The defense can help him – especially EJ who has to somewhat be “the man” – but the success or failure of this deal is squarely in Varly’s hands.
I pray to the hockey gods for health.
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
It’s also been said that the Caps rushed him back from his first injury, compounding things. Wait and see. That’s all any of us can do.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 5, 2011 12:14 PM MDT up reply actions
Varlamov is a first round pick who has goaltended an unbalanced Washington team into the playoffs. He has shown signs of brilliant ability and has been hampered by injury. The Avs took a risk by trading for him, giving Washington the 1st round pick they used to draft him, plus a second rounder as compensation for the time and energy Washington has invested in bringing this kid to the NHL level. If the Avs reach the playoffs and Washington gets back a pick at the same level they used to draft Varly the Avs can argue that the trade is fair. Yes, it is a risk, but one that the brain trust is willing to take.
Regarding the Avs giving up picks, especially in a highly anticipated draft, keep in mind we are poised to go shopping next year when the new CBA is in place. We also have a very young core and team, we are not needing to replace a bunch of key guys in 4 years. Additionally, players will continue to be under scrutiny and replacements/improvements may be easy for us to obtain at the end of next season.
Is this a good trade? We cannot say right now, and it is a gamble. There will be a big helping of crow being eaten around Avalanche Nation come next April, but who will be eating it? Sherman or the nay-sayers?
Well Languished.
I really like the new players the AVS signed. I would expect that having Kobasew and Hejda on the same squad can play enormous dividends (perhaps they can help alleviate the kitten massacre issue). Regarding Varlamov’s “cockiness”, I’d have to say that he pretty much proved to be the # 1 goalie in Washington. I’ve followed, apart from the obvious Avs appalling 10-11 season, quite a few of the Caps games and I have to say that I believe that Varlamov was the better net-minder of that team.
I was really concerned with the whole JML deal, but now that I see some of the new Avs players I feel much better now. I’m even starting to thing that people eating chicken isn’t so weird anymore, as suggested by Pinchy. Well maybe a little. I guess what I’m saying is that I feel positive about this and I take back those few exaggerated comments I made about the Avs big wigs.
Here’s what impresses me the most.
Sherman is not afraid to go after top-flight talent. If you look at the two biggest deals of 2011 (EJ, Varly) you’ll say that we gave up a lot in those deals. However, if the gambles pay off we could have a Weber-type defenseman and a Kiprusoff-type goalie for many, many years to come. Add that with two or three top 15 centers and a defense that is inarguably stronger and now it’s starting to look like our “rebuild” has entered phase II.
Yay Phase II!
thoughts
1. Criticizing mngt when they do dumb stuff makes you a GOOD fan, not bad one
2. It’s true that sherman has never played, been around or knows anything about hockey. He’s admitted that.
3. The moves made by him in last 2 years (really lacroix and his cronies still) are laughabl and most all hockey people know that. Trade one of the best power forwards who has easy 40+ goal potential on a team with NO PW’s? I like Johnson but com’n.
4. Varly for a first and second is singularly the worst trade this year. He was on way out of Wash so why not sign an offer sheet, get Vokoun as insurance and save a FOR SURE top 10 pick.
5. Cohen for Hunwick- grade F-
6. Anderson for Elliot- Grade F- (why not trade for a pick if you aren’t sure you will resign or even want the guy) Ando may have been the best goalie in the NHL after the trade
7. Obyrne for Bournival- D- (Obyrne can’t skate and he was in the pnalty box non stop last third of year) He couldn’t crack Montreal’s top 6-7 so what does that tell you?
8. Fleishmann should have been resigned, they desperately need a top 6 scorer STILL.
I think all of us want the Avs to win so how about some sign you have a clue what you are doing? The teams they will play in west they are NOT close to! Detroit, SJ, Chicago, LA (much better now and pretty good last year), Vancouver, Nashville, St. Louis, the list goes on. Let’s face facts, Kroenke doesn’t give a shit about hockey and the Avs are not a priority at all. Can you imagine Toronto naming an accountant GM? It’s simply mind boggling. The only teams the Avs could possibly be better than are maybe Oilers (they are loaded going forward though), maybe Calgary, and maybe Minny (who made some great moves). Don’t forget the AVS were second LAST in league last year and while thye should have better D and goalies they are weak at wings beyond belief.
They should mhave done the following:
Traded Stastny for EJ , and cumiskey or liles, not Shatty. He’s mamking 6.6 and that’s too much for a ok player who is weak physically. They have Hishon coming and should have made a run at Richards, a much better player for cheaper. He’s the gritty leader we need . not Stas even though I like him but at 4-5M max.
They should have kept Cohen, Bournival and Flieshmann. Hejda or a number of other FA Dmen would have been available to fill that spot.
Let’s hope for a new owner, gm, and coach!
Let’s hope for a new owner, gm, and coach!
While I disagree with nearly everything you have said, I do think I can help you with this….
http://www.matchsticksandgasoline.com/
Have fun with that.
Actually, I agree with him on #1. I don’t think you need to check your brain at the gate when you become a fan of a team.
That said, I’m with you Paul. I pretty much disagree with almost all of his actual points.
Regarding #8: Have you ever thought that maybe Flash requested that the Avs not sign him? He has blood clotting issues that are made worse by living at altitude.
#7: Have you ever seen Bournival play? I haven’t, so I have no real basis to ridicule the trade.
#6: Anderson for Elliot got the Avs Landeskog. They likely wouldn’t have gotten him otherwise.
#5: There’s something weird in that trade. That said, Hunwick had a helluva time adjusting to playing on the Avs. Give him a chance. Maybe with a full season he’ll be more comfortable.
#4: I think most of us have come to terms with the trade. Varly is a first round pick and has had the training and time to show that he’s an NHL-caliber player. So, a first round pick for a first rounder plus a second round pick for the additional time and training to get someone you know is NHL-caliber. Seems pretty fair to me.
#3: Regarding your first point, I’m not really sure how you know who pulled the trigger on the trades. No one else does, so I’d say you are just making stuff up there. Second, the juries still out on the Stewie trade. Patience, grasshopper.
answers
3. As I said I like EJ, but stewie was there only true pw and best goal scorer. If they trade statsny, they still have depth at center (by far their deepest position), possibly Hishon as 2nd line center or more logically they free up 6.6M and sign/trade for a good center (Richards).
4. Time will tell but that’s a lot to give up and they could have got him cheaper in my opinion
5. Cohen for Hunwick when they already had Liles, Cumiskey, etc. makes no sense. They needed size and Cohen has potential.
6.No idea what you are talking about but I would guess you mean they sucked and lost games b/c of elliot so that’s how they got the pick? Bad logic and bad strategy if that’s what you mean.
7.Yes, he made canada’s jr team so he’s got potential. I like obyrnes size but he was getting beat a lot late in year and in the box a lot. He just can’t skae that well.
8. Possibly, but unlikely as they didn’t want to pay anywhere near what florida did.
Last, they have so much money they could literally signed Richards, Vokoun, Erhoff, Gagne and still be under the cap. They want to go on cheap and that’s why they can’t compete. They are looking at playing Gali on second line if gthey even get ONE injury. That’s a joke. Why would they not sign a quality winger, they need to get to the cap floor regardless. Kobasew? Please! Someone has to explain to me why that makes any sense at all. I’ll bet you $100 Stewart scores 40+ goals this year and he may hit 45-50.
by the cool breeze on Jul 5, 2011 6:41 AM MDT up reply actions
3. They don’t need to free up $6.6 million. In fact, they really need the contract to help get to the cap floor. Richards has already signed somewhere else, but they could have afforded both of them if they wanted to. Stastny is a fantastic center, incredibly reliable. That said, last year was a low point for him. Do you really want to trade a guy when his value is lowest? That’s when you get fleeced.
4. It was a lot to give up. Maybe. If it works it will be a brilliant trade. (“I can’t believe Wash. didn’t see/develop his talent.” “I can’t believe they let him go for so little.”) If it doesn’t work then it won’t be. (“I can’t believe the Avs took this bum.”) In the end, though, it’ll only be playing the season that give the perspective.
5. Again, no idea with that one. Hunwick is really fast, though, and showed a lot of potential. I really do think the Avs have been re-thinking how they want their team over the last couple of years. A defense that is only small and fast didn’t cut it and I think the Avs realized that. Since then they have been re-shaping the defense the other way. It ain’t bad to recognize a bad plan and change direction. What’s bad is to not recognize that a plan is bad and then blindly keep heading that direction.
6. I actually didn’t completely mean that. Anderson revived enough to win a bunch of games for Ottawa. That’s what pushed them up over the Avs. But, yes, Elliot sucked and that helped the Avs to a 2nd overall pick. I didn’t say that was a strategy. It was just a description of what happened. No logic involved, just reporting what happened.
7. Have you seen Bournival play? Have you seen what he can do in the NHL?
8. It’s a pretty damn serious illness. Not something to screw around with any more than you have to.
9. Vokoun pretty obviously didn’t want to play for the Avs. They contacted him first and the talks didn’t go anywhere at all. Not something to cry about. Move on. Gagne got too much money for what he’s going to bring, IMO. Erhoff got way the hell too much money and time. Richards, well, I think the Avs already have at least one first line center.
10. There were a whole lot of quality wingers out there. They did sign two wingers this off season, though, and will likely have a third when Landeskog joins up.
In other words, the solution to all of the arguing is simple: Wait and see. It may be that the Avs tank. It may be that they do better than we expect. It is certain that the season will not go like anyone is predicting right now. That’s the whole reason anyone bothers to watch the games.
3. They don’t need to free up $6.6 million. In fact, they really need the contract to help get to the cap floor. Richards has already signed somewhere else, but they could have afforded both of them if they wanted to. Stastny is a fantastic center, incredibly reliable. That said, last year was a low point for him. Do you really want to trade a guy when his value is lowest? That’s when you get fleeced.
And to keep on this kick, Richards wasn’t available when the Stewie/EJ deal went down and Stastny’s salary was also needed then to stay at the cap floor. I sure don’t understand why you’d want to trade away an All Star player, though.
He was on way out of Wash so why not sign an offer sheet
I’m so tired of this argument. GMGM has made it pretty clear they would have matched. They wanted to get something for the guy, not nothing.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 5, 2011 12:16 PM MDT up reply actions
Varly traded to the Avs
GM George Mcphee just stole from you guys. Stupid on your GM’s part to give up a 1st & a 2nd for a goalie who can’t stay healthy
You gonna keep posting the same thing in different threads? It’s boring, and it’s borderline trolling.
Please add something meaningful to the discussion or, kindly (and I say this with all due respect), fuck off.
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jul 4, 2011 9:30 PM MDT up reply actions
Above and beyond the fact I want Varly to kick ass for the Avs’ sake, I want him to kick ass so all these folks who are judging a trade on a bunch of unknowns will have to wipe out the entire US population of crows in one big bbq. I hate crows. To no end.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 5, 2011 12:18 PM MDT up reply actions
Dan is absolutely right. If you cannot add anything meaningful, you need to move on.
[Insert witty line here]
by Cheryl Bradley on Jul 5, 2011 12:18 PM MDT up reply actions
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