Dany Heatley Buyout: A Study In Offseason Irrationality
by Mr. Plank on Jun 7, 2011 11:41 AM PDT
in Armchair GM
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PrintFor hockey fans slogging their way through the sleepy summer months, no website is trusted more than CapGeek.com. It is the go-to place for salary information, hypothetical roster building, and potential lineups. It is the Rosetta Stone when it comes to the common fan's attempt to understand the monetary side of the game.
Matthew Weust, who runs the website from his home in Nova Scotia, has accrued so many sources over the years that it has become commonplace for him to break signings before the MSM does. He's even been brought on to write for TSN during the high profile contract months (free agency and the trade deadline), offering his perspective on where a specific team stand in regards to their salary structure and ability to acquire talent.
Think of CapGeek as EA's NHL 2011 Be A GM Mode. Every conceivable roster at your fingertips, with buyouts, trades, free agents, and offer sheets all at your disposal. For some it's a tool to use for the greater good-- tweaks here and there to improve your favorite team, a trade here or there that makes sense for both clubs partaking in the festivities.
For others it's a highway to hedonism, as an analysis of the most popular buyouts over the last week will tell you.
The list of names here makes a lot of sense. Wojitek Wolski, Chris Drury, and Sean Avery all play for the New York Rangers-- with the Brad Richards sweepstakes in full swing since Dallas announced they would not re-sign him, the majority of Rangers fans are trying to find a way to break free of the shackles known as Glen Sather's contracts. Godspeed folks. Godspeed.
Sheldon Souray of the Edmonton Oilers is buried in minors and likely won't play in Edmonton ever again. Scott Gomez had a horrible season, posting 38 points and a -15 with three years left on a contract that pays him $7.3 MM per year. Komisarek, who has three years left at $4.5 MM per year, is a product of Toronto wanting to be active in the Free Agent market.
But wait, Dany Heatley? Former 50 goal scorer Dany Heatley of the San Jose Sharks, a player who finished fourth on the team in points this season, scored 39 goals in his first year with the team, and sees a healthy amount of time in the Sharks top six forward group?
Yes, that Dany Heatley. Buoyed by the fact that Heatley was largely ineffective for much of the Sharks 2011 postseason, posting three goals and six assists in eighteen games, the hounds have come out of the woodwork. Sporting a contract that has three years left and accounts for $7.5 MM of cap space per year, San Jose's ability to improve their blueline and shore up their penalty kill is slightly hampered by what some have called an albatross of a contract.
However, with Heatley on the books the Sharks still have a lot of flexibility heading into the offseason. At the very least they're looking at $10.175 MM in cap space to sign six skaters, four of which will be of the bottom line variety.
There's no doubt that Heatley has been a disappointment in the postseason during his two years with the Sharks. Brought in for his ability to score goals, Heatley has amassed a grand total of five in thirty two games played, an average of 12.8 when applied to an 82 game season. That production (or lack thereof) is what is fueling these buyout fires.
Further kindling is provided by the fact that Heatley's contract contains a No Movement Clause. The clause caused a deal sending him to the Edmonton Oilers in the summer of 2009 to be nullified after Heatley denied the trade, and makes moving him for the best return an unlikely possibility considering the organization would not be able to negotiate with all 29 potential trade partners.
But a buyout? Throwing in the towel that quickly despite the news that Heatley was playing with a broken left hand and a high-ankle injury during the 2011 postseason, dealt with a torn groin during the 2010 postseason, and underwent surgery this past offseason which caused rehabilitation issues during the entirety of this year?
It doesn't make any sense. For starters, this practice enact a cap hit against the team who engages in a buyout. According to CapGeek's buyout calculator, the San Jose Sharks would have a penalty of $1.6 MM next year, $3.6 MM in 12-13, $4.6 MM in 13-14, and $2.1 MM for the three years following. That is cap space being eaten up by a player who is not on the current roster-- in other words, you're allocating valuable salary resources to a player that is not helping you win hockey games.
Buyouts are used for players who have dropped off severely in talent level. They're for players who have no market value. They're not for your fourth highest scorer, and certainly not for a player who has fallen victim to injuries over the last two playoff runs.
Secondly, Heatley is still an effective player when he is healthy. While it's clear that his $7.5 MM contract is one that could shed a few unsightly pounds, he's a former 50 goal scorer who has a dangerous shot and has improved immensely on the defensive side of the ice. There is still immense value here, and even though his contract contains a No Movement Clause that would hamper San Jose's ability to get the best return for his services, there are numerous teams out there who would be willing to part with talent in order to acquire him.
Cap space is cap space. You use that cap space in order to acquire talented players. You don't shed cap space in order to acquire more cap space if it means your team would be worse off for it. Buying out Heatley would send tremors down the Sharks lines, pushing Pavelski up to the top six and leaving the bottom six forward group lacking a legitimate scoring threat. Coupled with the fact that the free agent class is a weak one, as well as the fact that San Jose has historically acquired players via trade, it sets up a situation where you would have to move more players (Pavelski, Setoguchi etc.) in order to capitalize on that cap space. Which would exponentially increase the issues of finding the ability to ice a competitive team.
The San Jose Sharks window of opportunity to win is right now. Dany Heatley, either through his play or in the unlikely event he is traded this offseason (which would bring in players that would help the team win), is going to be a big part of that.
A buyout makes little sense.
Which is unfortunately par for the course during the sleepy summer months that comprise the NHL offseason.
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Wise words Plank, wise words.
And you think you live in a non-traditional hockey market...
Randy Hahn: "That is one angry Swedish person."
"I flew 5,000 miles for this?"
And if you want more of this kind of thing, I'm spouting nonsense on Twitter too...
STOP MAKING SENSE!
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
THANK YOU!
Hope this quiets the “TRADE/BUYOUT/TOSS OUT AT SEA HEATLEY” talks for the next two weeks until it starts up again.
Everything you said is what I’ve been saying. Everyone is such in a rush to push Heatley out the door after ONE lack luster season. Give me a break. A year ago he was a 1 PPG player for SJ.
I still think that groin injury affected his skating and his shot this past season. The broken hand and sprain were just icing on the cake. Give the guy a break!
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
HAHAHA!
I laughed so hard when I saw that at CapGeek! Its not like Heatley is playing like Cheechoo, who got bought-out by Ottawa and some thought the Sharks should sign him back. Funny stuff!
Good Article!
Great article Plank! You can probably add the fact that the Sharks are not the type of organization to buy out contracts (or bury them) to the reasons it won’t happen.
Whether people want to admit it or not, with Heatley on this team they’ve made the conference finals – he makes the team better.
I really hope he can use this off season to fix his ‘groin area’ as I think that hampered him quite a bit this past season. It’s not even worth mentioning what a broken hand does to a guy who’s biggest weapon is his shot. It would be really nice to see what even an 80% healthy Heatley can do in the post season.
You can probably add the fact that the Sharks are not the type of organization to buy out contracts (or bury them) to the reasons it won’t happen.
Don’t tell that to Kyle McLaren. =/
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
Me too... and his constant beatings of Drew Remenda...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgbi-Gr0b_g
Drew: 'Oh no.. That is certainly the meaty part alright, but it's not the thigh..."
Randy: "No... that bone is NOT connected to the thigh bone..."
www.fearthefin.com
I rushed the farm's crappy field in 2009
www.californiagoldenblogs.com
Totally agree Milanahalek. But from what I’ve heard around the grapevine, it will take much longer than the 3-4 month summer break to fix the groin injury. Hope I heard wrong though.
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
What have you heard?
I love Dany Heatley for his fantastic acting chops and his permanently dilated pupil.
by HeatersLeadingLady on Jun 8, 2011 9:10 PM PDT up reply actions
Basically that to get fully healed, it may take up to a year. Not sure if that’s true but I do think he needed more healing time than the summer months.
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
You know what...
The problem with Heatley isn’t really him – it’s the cap hit. If he goes on LTIR for half the year in order to heal up, that’s perfectly fine by me. It’ll only use half of his total cap hit that way… which would free up $2-3 mill to use on someone through FA.
Anaheim pulled shenanigans like this with Selanne and Niedermayer maybe 4 years ago when their contracts would have put them over the limit, so they didn’t re-up until halfway through the season.
Please don't eat the unicorn.
Winning: n. "An ongoing cycle of competence and achievement in various endeavors. You cannot win; there is only the continuous action of winning."
I don't think it works that way.
LTIR doesn’t reduce your cap space, it just allows the team to excede the salary cap by an equal amount. So the second he goes off the IR, the team has to find a way to shed $7m in space still.
Heatley’s been injured. What’s Gomez’s excuse?
But to the point. If we want the full value of Heatley and his contract, he’s got to get healthy. He earned his big bucks when he was in Ottawa. He was a consistent producer there, it wasn’t some “contract year bump and a wish” situation.
And for god’s sake do something about the inevitable “key injuries hampered the Sharks in the postseason” bullshit that has happened year in/out since we invaded Iraq.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
People give Heater too much shit..
- 1: He was injured the past 2 post seasons.
- 2: His points were a little lower this year because he has been focusing on his D game, which is a good thing.
- 3: The Sharks have way more scoring depth then Ottawa, one reason I can see him not having a 50 goal season ever again, our scoring is just so much more spread out.
Agreed. If anything I have WAY more respect and love for Heatley now than I did before. To play through the Groin injury last year when he really should have been sitting, and then most of the 2nd half and all of the playoffs with a broken hand and still contribute is gamer status for sure. The broken hand explained SO much though. 2nd half rolled around and he couldn’t seem to keep the puck on his stick for the life of him. I could never fully get mad at him before knowing that though cause you could see him putting out full effort, getting back and making defensive plays and just trying to compete.
by dannyschmanny on Jun 7, 2011 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions
Yes, he is a gamer and a lot tougher than I think he gets credit for. I really liked what he brought to the second line in terms of finding different ways to contribute while he was hurt (backchecking, forechecking on the boards, blocking shots, etc.).
But I do have to echo ievans thoughts and say what we need is him to be “I’m a Fucking All-Star” again. And to do that, he has to be healthier. I’m sure we all can’t wait to see more post-goal manhugs after Heatley cranks up for those “I’m gonna shoot a fucking one-timer” shots.
/sniff * Definitely. No question.
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
I’m more mad that the coaching/training staff didn’t let him heal during the regular season. An extra goal or 5 could have shortened our early series, and extended the Canucks series. But I’m still looking for someone to punch for this year’s exit, so there’s that.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
Injuries...
I think if DW could sign some 4th liners McLellan would actually roll, the injury bug would diminish. I think that is more important then finding that defenseman everyone is talking about, just sign White, let Wallin or Huskins go and get that 4th line bad ass!
by sharkblood99 on Jun 7, 2011 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions
Also true.
If our PK was better, we could let guys like Eager and Nichol wreck havoc and get under the skins of the other team without it dooming our chances. If you watch the Canucks, they’re a bunch of FUCKING ASSHOLES, but they’re doing their job of getting the other guys off their game, and letting their skill guys cash in on the retaliation penalties.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
In my opinion – neither, well, one more penalty killing forward would be good, but both Marleau and Pavelski had very poor years on the PK, and really defensively as a whole. If the two of them can get back to their (almost elite) two way games it’ll go a long way to helping the PK.
On a side note, if they fire Trent Yawney I’d do a happy dance!
Thornton and Marleau should be doing 2nd unit PK. Heater should be only doing spot PK work. I’m fine with Pavs being a primary penalty killer, but not all of Thornton/Marleau/Heater/Pavs. One more bottom-6 forward who can do 1st unit PK duty would be ideal.
One more defensive d-man would do a world of good as well. I want Boyle’s ice time around 25 minutes a night, not 30.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
Couture will get there and there’s no reason Marleau shouldn’t be with Pavs on the 1st unit – he’s usually the best defensive forward on the team.
I agree, Heatley should only be doing the final 20-25 seconds.
At least 2 of the bottom 6 forwards (not including Couture/Pavs there) will be capable of killing penalties, hopefully one of them will be able to slot into one of the first 2 PK units.
Considering their atrocious numbers
Patty and Pavs should have to EARN their way back onto the top unit, instead of being penciled in. But hey, I’m a Todd McLellan critic, so I have no faith he will do such a thing.
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
Earning PK time?? How do you suppose McLellan goes about that? I understand you don’t like Marleau and you’re not a huge fan of McLellan but players are either capable of killing penalties or they’re not. It would be hard for McLellan to keep Marleau and Pavs off the top PK unit to start the season considering his other options.
If they are as bad at the start of next year as they were this year, I agree, take them away from the primary PK minutes.
But they are both, throughout most of their careers, very good penalty killers and they need to be given the opportunity to show that they can get back to that game.
Their GA/60 for the PK were awful
Both Marleau, whom I’m not a fan of, AND Pavelski, who I AM a fan of.
Their numbers were over 9. I mean, if this doesn’t merit a demotion, I don’t know what does.
My point is, if they want to play top PK minutes, I think training camp should be an open battle to earn it, not some assumption that 8 and 12 get trotted out there for the first PK minutes.
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
The art of the PK has more to do with how you pressure the guy with the puck than anything else.
If you can force him to defend the puck by making him face away from other players, his passing options become more of the blind variety, which opens the possibility for a clear or counterattack.
My point being, the mechanics of our PK probably need more work than the roster does.
We also need to learn to collapse to net and defend weak side of play. I literally got hoarse screaming these two points during the last series.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
PS: I'm also on the reinforce 4th line bandwagon.
It’s smart to extend the 4th line’s viability as much as possible to help cut icetime for your top liners. Definitely will reduce the injuries later in the season.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
Defending the weak side
was our single biggest issue in the postseason. I can’t even remember how many weak side goals were scored on us by LA, DET, and VAN with a tic-tac-toe play where the Sharks were watching the passes and not covering their marks on the weak side. Infuriating when you can see a goal happen before it happens because the D lets an open man slide in the back door.
by Chicago Shark on Jun 8, 2011 7:17 AM PDT up reply actions
This is the same coaching staff that had the Sharks in the top 5 on PK in 08/09 and 09/10. Where they sometimes have a problem is adjusting in game to what the other teams PP is doing (back door passes), that happened in both the LA series and the Van series – the PK was mostly good against Det.
I know Malhotra is a good penalty killer most of the time but replacing him w/ Couture shouldn’t have knocked the Sharks from the top 5 to the bottom 7. I do think the defense and goaltending took a huge dive in their PK numbers this past season. I love Niemi and am thrilled to have him but Blake and mostly Nabby managed to mask quite a few of the Sharks flaws in the past.
Agreed.
It’s one of the things I’m admiring about Tim Thomas in the cup series right now. Amazingly, the Bruins special teams were horrible going into this series, but their PK has done well thus far thanks to smart collapsing to net, weak-side coverage, and awesome (G).
The one major f-up Thomas had should have been covered by Chara (11 second OT goal in G2). Chara should have hooked/tripped and taken the penalty.
I know it’s another team, but it is what I was so hoping to see out of our own guys this year in post-season.
Our PP & PK can be fixed, we just need to really look at some tape, understand the deficiencies not only in how the play is occurring, but how the coaching is promoting it, and make real adjustments to our methods of preparation, practice, and play during summer camp.
Core is strong. I fully expect next season to put us deeper into the finals, barring the unplannable.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
This is only the second season i can think of in the last 6 years that that has been said and actually, the other time it was applicable nobody actually talked about that part. That other time being the Anaheim series. Everyone was so focused on the fact that we won the President’s trophy and lost to an 8th seed they left out the fact that we had basically 8 or 9 starters not play for the final 2 months or so, then put them all in cold for the playoffs against the best team down the stretch
by dannyschmanny on Jun 7, 2011 1:05 PM PDT up reply actions
Literally every year since the lockout, when we’re wondering what was wrong with key player X, we’ve found out that there’s been some long-term or nagging injury hampering them. Marleau’s been that guy a couple times.
I mean, I know injuries happen, and that’s just the wheel of fortune turning against us to a certain extent. But, Ducks series notwithstanding, I’d rather have healthy players that get stronger as the playoffs go on than injured warrior tough guys that peter out as the injuries compound, which is what has happened these last two years.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
In accord with the end of that article
It really seems these No Movement Clauses are the real albatross. Not talking about Heatley specifically, but you go from team to team on that list, and there’s an awful lot of players with either NMCs or NTCs. Strange that teams would agree to that so often.
I wonder how much money value a NMC/NTC carries. As in how much that extra security blanket is worth to a player. Would a player be okay with signing without such clauses if it means an extra $250K a year instead? How much is it worth for a player to have a bigger say in controlling their destiny?
Kinda rhetorical questions, I guess. But a GM also has to bank on throwing whatever they can to get a player to sign with their team. I doubt they think that much of the NMC/NTC when they actually sign them. It probably only becomes an issue when said player needs/wants to be moved…
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
So sad that you even have to address these sorta things...
Reminds me of how we had to hear “CALL UP CHEECHOO!!!” all god damn season!
I just hope it doesn’t last all summer, considering there are legitimate roster questions worth talking about.
Speaking of which, when’s the next podcast!? :)
"If you're not hurt right now, if you're not banged, bruised, you're not sore, you're not tired, I guess the question would be: Why?" - Todd McLellan
Bring It Home.
I would never say "CALL UP CHEECHOO!!!"
I was more of a “SIGN NOLAN!!!” guy instead.
=)
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
I hear that, Bruhva. He said he’d take any amount of money for any role! I don’t care how old Nolan is; he was still Minnesota’s leading goal-scorer and I would fully trust him to play 6 minutes per game!
Likewise...
I felt he would be an awesome 3rd or even 4th line guy to put in a role, and at least, to a perhaps lesser extent, fill the ‘experienced former superdooperstar’ role that we had with guys like Roenick and Blake.
Plus, his cost was cheap, and he’s so beloved in San Jose, you’d at least make tons of money on new Nolan jerseys…
But I still say ‘BRING RICCI BACK!’ so what do I know.
Drew: 'Oh no.. That is certainly the meaty part alright, but it's not the thigh..."
Randy: "No... that bone is NOT connected to the thigh bone..."
www.fearthefin.com
I rushed the farm's crappy field in 2009
www.californiagoldenblogs.com
A serious question...
Would anyone here be against signing Cheechoo for a 1 yr contract worth around 600K? He would add great forward depth imho.
It’d just be kinda awkward for him to play with Heater…
"It was good to get banged and give a few bangs." - Jonathan Cheechoo
Where do you play him? He’s not fast enough to be a defensive 3rd liner. He’s not physical enough anymore to be a 4th line plugger. And he’s no longer a top line player on this team.
I love Cheech, but he needs to hook on to a club like Florida and get some top-6 minutes on a shitty team to show that he can play in the NHL. Otherwise he’s going to remain in the AHL.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
In his defense
He lead the Wooster Sharks in points this year and had far fewer games played than other point leaders on the team. He still has that goal scoring ability. Why not give the guy a shot and see what he could bring?
My point is that we’ve been complaining that our 4th line hasn’t been able to score for two years now. Cheech would bring that instantly, along with experience, and he actually has played very well along the boards this year in Wooster. Besides, if he’s paired with a McClaren, Mayers, or even Nolan, that physicality would be taken care of by the other two linemates.
"It was good to get banged and give a few bangs." - Jonathan Cheechoo
He’s getting 20 minutes a night on the 1st line in the AHL. He’d be getting 5-8 minutes a night on the 4th line, no power-play time, and it’s very likely his line-mates won’t be capable of dishing him the puck.
It’s not that he couldn’t produce some points on the top-two lines. It’s more that he’d put up fewer points than the guy he’d be replacing. And at the NHL level, that’s the difference between a bad team and a good one.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
And he’s slower than a goalie in full pads. He can’t get to the areas for his teammates to make those beauty passes and he can’t get that extra step on defenders to open lanes and/or break into the zone.
There is a reason he played like dogshit in Ottawa. He was carried by Thornton in the opening season after the lockout which changed rules etc, and the seasons after that saw a higher emphasis on shot blocking etc. His injuries slowed him to a crawl.
Cheechoo is done. Finished. Should be looking for a new career in hockey. If he can’t make other less competitive teams, he certainly can’t make the Sharks.
by psantangeli on Jun 7, 2011 4:51 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Totally agree.
I love Dany Heatley for his fantastic acting chops and his permanently dilated pupil.
by HeatersLeadingLady on Jun 8, 2011 9:17 PM PDT up reply actions
Speaking of that.
I want our 4th line to be Nolan – Ricci – Cheechoo this year
Shameless radio show plug. Also, here's my twitter.
"The last time I made a video in a hotel room…..very different than this." – Drew Remenda
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by jwizzle241 on Jun 7, 2011 1:45 PM PDT up reply actions 5 recs
Rec'd
For the ultimate Fan Favorite Line.
But in all seriousness, that would be something if both Nolan and Cheech came back, while we trade Nitty and sign Nabby to tandem with Nemo and make the ultimate Shark Stanley Cup Playoff Run.
"It was good to get banged and give a few bangs." - Jonathan Cheechoo
by CheechYou on Jun 7, 2011 1:50 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sign Jim Kyte to a 4 year contract. Our defensive worries will be over. We can pick up Rob Gaudreau for some scoring pop.
Liftetime president of the Darren Turcott Q-Tip Dexterity Awareness Foundation
finally caved in, as @shampeon on the Twitternet
by ievans on Jun 7, 2011 1:52 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Fuse Ricci and Cheechoo.
Mikathan Ricchoo.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 8, 2011 6:36 PM PDT up reply actions
I was under the impression that once a no-trade/no-movement clause was waived, it remains waived. Would we really need Heatley’s permission to trade him?
It's only waived per transaction
Heatley still has his clause for the remainder of the contract.
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
Well, part of the problem is..
that a lot of other fans simply hate Heatley, whether for his attitude towards Ottawa/Edmonton/Canada or his other demons.
The question that needs to be asked is “Would we be better without Heatley?” That answer is clearly NO, since it’s not like we’re exactly flush with proven 30-40 goals scorers (when healthy)
OTOH, “Would we be better off without Huskins?” is something that they’ve hopefully already decided.
"You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means" - Inigo Montoya
Heatley is being so undermined!
Think about it. He has been to the Cup Finals so he knows what it takes to win it all. Plus, he was standing out from many of his teammates when he was in Ottawa as shown by his stats that year. Just because he hasn’t put up those exact numbers in a teal jersey doesn’t mean that is a bad thing. He actually had a better postseason this year than last year. You can’t expect him to carry most of the postseason offense. It’s what made LeBron leave Cleveland; he got tired of carrying most of his team’s offense every night and it clearly inhibited him from going far with them. Wanted to be a distributor, not a carrier.
Heatley has been distributing a lot the past two years. Sure I don’t like the fact that his salary makes it trickier to improve our D but his salary goes down a little bit the next couple years, which can make acquiring and holding better D-men easier.
He has been to the Cup Finals so he knows what it takes to win it all
He knows how to get there, not how to win it all… (Unfortunate because I was HEAVILY siding with Ottawa in that series for obvious reasons)
Drew: 'Oh no.. That is certainly the meaty part alright, but it's not the thigh..."
Randy: "No... that bone is NOT connected to the thigh bone..."
www.fearthefin.com
I rushed the farm's crappy field in 2009
www.californiagoldenblogs.com
He has the mentality. He produced plenty for his team during those playoffs, but his teammates weren’t as great as he was plus his opponents in that series consisted of more depth (I don’t need to mention names, you probably know exactly who I am referring to).
by zack007attack on Jun 8, 2011 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions
buyout? NO. trade? MAYBE.
A buyout just hamstrings a team unnecessarily, however if there were a team out there who wanted his services and we could gain cap space and possibly some talent or draft picks I’d be interested in that.
While I think it’s admirable Heatley has played through injury I have not been impressed with his overall play as a San Jose Shark. He’s got a terrific shot, it’s truly unbelievable how hard he can send a slap shot to the net. Often I cannot even track it once he slaps it and often it’s the movement of the net that gives it away, a true sniper if there ever was.
He’s a sniper and some say that’s what he was brought in to do. Fair enough but I’d rather have a more complete player. His puck handling skills are rather poor and he’s too easily pushed off the puck. A man of his size seemingly would be harder to move but he often seems off balance. I realize his role but I think it limits the team not having better puck handling skills or strength on the puck.
I really want to like the guy and I do love his shot but that’s about it. I don’t question that Heatley wants to win but I’ve found myself over the past two seasons smacking my fist wondering where his tenacity is. I realize 3rd and 4th line players tend to be scrappier and show more tenacity but dammit I want that out of my top line players and I just don’t get that from Dany.
There's blood in the water and now it's frozen.
Looking at his contract… I think trade is a No as well. We might as well start looking at the positives to Heatley because we’re stuck with him.
"Douglas Murray is a humongous human being." – Drew Remenda
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Theneverman- Are you not impressed with this overall play as a Shark or just as a Sharks this season? Big difference. I personally like 39 goals, especially when playing with a groin injury towards the end of the regular season.
Also, having a groin injury doesn’t do good things to skating in general and to a one-timer scorer, it really does a disservice to his shot and positioning when shooting. Not saying I don’t understand your frustation but just maybe showing a different light to how Dany has been playing this past season.
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
Overall as a Shark. Anyone making that much money is going to be scrutinized extra for sure and that’s what I’m doing. I really want Dany to make it here, I’m not calling for a trade however for that kind of money I’d like to see someone who has a greater range of talent than just a sniper. Do I think trading him is feasible? Not really. My statement really stands on value for the dollar and his game isn’t multi-dimensional enough for my liking. That’s really all.
Here’s to him having a healthy upcoming season because I’d really like to see him hit those crazy 50+ goal expectations people spoke of when he was traded here as I think that would change the way people play him and the rest of the team.
There's blood in the water and now it's frozen.
Unless someone wants Heatley for a guy like Weber, he’s not going anywhere. It doesn’t make much sense to trade away a guy like that unless you’re getting something just as (potentially) amazing as him.
Moreover, losing him doesn’t make this team better in any way. More cap space, maybe. But ultimately, then you’re stuck looking for a guy who plays like Heatley. And a top 2 D-man.
"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank
Member of the Torrey Mitchell and Patrick Marleau Fan Club
RIP Atlanta Thrashers. Welcome to the NHL, Atlanta Thrashers of Winnipeg.
Exactly!
Is the cap space so important that trading him away for an amazing package like we sent Ottawas way really that inviting to anyone? Because no team is gonna want to part with their top defenseman…
Looking at Heater like a money pit more then what he can and will bring to the table is shortsighted IMO.
Did you hear that?
That was the sound of Dave Poile laughing so hard he pulled a muscle.
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
by ElvisVF101 on Jun 8, 2011 3:46 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah I like Heatley, but a playoff beard like Weber’s would be invaluable and Heatley’s beard hasn’t been meeting expectations and is certainly no bargain.
.
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
by ElvisVF101 on Jun 8, 2011 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 3 recs
+1 for Sean Connery awesomeness
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
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errr well there goes the over-talked about "trade heater" topic....
I guess lets go back to the unbelievably redundant Cheechoo talks
omg omg omg lets bring cheechoo up from the minors! yeah! totally possible right? woo rocket richard!
I seriously get so bored during the offseason…
"I love inside jokes. I'd love to be apart of one someday." - Michael Scott
My pathetic excuse of a Twitter account: http://twitter.com/santacruzsharks
by tealstherealdeal92 on Jun 7, 2011 3:20 PM PDT reply actions
Not Once
Have I thought Heater was on the chopping block. I will completly admit: I am a Wallin, Huskins hater. Now that those two are out of the lineup, we have some room to piece togther an even hockey team. I don’t think any one on contract (for over 2M) will be axed. If we sign setto to a 2.5-3M contract, we have 7-8M left to sign a D Man and some “lower level” forwards. DW has some fantastic options. I think the Sharks are looking pretty good through 2014.
Thanks Mr. Plank
I’ve been making this same point repeatedly in the comments. It’s ridiculous. He was #4 this year in scoring and #2, just 2 points behind Patty last year. Should we be shedding Patty too for his slightly lower hit?
Anything is possible with Cheechoo and Nolan…. you never know.
Go Big or Go Home
by ChangoT on Jun 7, 2011 8:10 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
Don’t tease me like that. Cheechoo is a bit of a gamble, but will play on the cheap and could always be sent back down. It’s still a cap hit however that might be better spend on a faster, younger guy with bigger upside. Nolan was a big dissapointment last season, as he wanted to finish his career here in San Jose, where he resides in the off season. But I guess that ship has sailed, as his beard is mostly Grey. Still, for sentimental reasons, it would be fun to watch that experiment for about a week. :o)
though i agree overall--
i think we have reason to be distressed and looking for answers this way. when you think of his performance this year vs. how much he’s making and what we really need it does make you a little sad.
like when your girlfriend breaks up with you in high school and you steal your parents bottle of vodka and go to town on it because what’s the point in general, you know? eff.
Heatley’s totally worth the $7.5 million cap hit. If you throw a bunch of wishful thinking into the mix. If only he wasn’t broken. If only there weren’t a bunch of other guys producing. It only opposing goalies would develop narcolepsy during the playoffs. I agree that buying out his contract would be dumb, but that kind of money should have very high expectations attached. Thom whom much is given, much is expected. By which I mean money and playoff goals respectively.
by burrowowl on Jun 8, 2011 12:37 AM PDT reply actions 1 recs
Conundrum
Have Dany Heatley’s injuries just been flukey, or is he on the downside of his career?
Heatley is an expensive luxury, especially when you consider how much $$$ is going to him, Marleau, Boyle, and Thornton.
Since it’s unlikely he’s going to be traded (although not completely out of the relm of possibility) McClellan and DW need to find some line mates whom he can build up chemistry with. Other than playing with Jumbo two year ago, I have not seen that tendency with other players currently on the team.
Great article Mr. Plank, thanks for breaking it down and bringing people back to Planet Earth.
Heatley w/ Pavelski
I’d actually like to see Heatley play next to Pavs for a while to see if they can gain some chemistry – Heatley does best with a right handed set up guy. Obsiously, they’d need someone speedy to play on the other side but Heatley had his most productive seasons playing with Spezza who is a righty. I think it’s worth a try.
I was thinking the same thing...
But wondered if that would make the line too slow? It’s worth a try I guess, but perhaps the best guy to complement his game is still out there. I’ll have to take a look.
Half of those guys are going to be way too expensive…the other half are just not that good in my opinion. I actually think, should Pitt decide not to bring him back and he has any interest in playing in the West, Pascal Dupuis would be a perfect fit. Great skater, great defensive forward, good for 15+ goals great on the PK. He could/should also be making under 1.7mil per year.
Sounds good to me
So I guess you envision Heater on the third line with Pavs and Dupuis? We will need his speed to combat Dany and Joe’s slower skating. I like Pavelski’s passing ability and Heaters shot and if Dupuis is fast and can back check, then perhaps we’re good to go for a third line?
On another note: I heard that Philly is considering moving Carter and his $6+ million dollar cap hit over the next 8 years! He is a very good player, but his contract makes Heatley’s look damn good by comparision.
If Heatley can avoid injury next season, especially come playoff time, then I also see his numbers getting better in the post season.
GO SHARKS!!!
3 lines
That’s the luxury of having Thornton, Pavs, Couture down the middle – you don’t necessarily end up with a 1st, 2nd, 3rd line – you end up with 3 scoring lines. With so much talent up front I’d like to see the Sharks go the route Philly tends to use, pairs:
Thornton/Marleau
Clowe/Couture
Pavs/Heatley
That also give you at least 1 good two way forward on each line.
I Still think the PMS line is the way to go.
Everyone will steer clear.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
I still think Heatley back with Thornton when he’s back to 100%. You need a pure talent passer to center a goal scorer like Heatley- especially for his one-timer.
Although I do have to admit, I love that two way forward on each line. Looks mighty tasty my friends.
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
Thanks, Plank.
Great read. Wise stuff you’re saying for sure.
Patrick Marleau on previous fighting experience: "I've got an older brother, too... so..."
Ha ha
Sorry, I had to laugh about this. Are Sharks fans really hanging the hat of disappointment and blame on Dany Heatley? Read the comments here, and you will find out pretty quickly that the guy has been one of the most important players on the team. Yes, he makes the most money and I would like to see more production because of that. But giving up on Heatley now is ridiculous. Its silly. He still happened to score 26 goals with a broken hand for HALF OF THE YEAR. Oh ya, we also asked the guy to play more PK and D then he has ever played in his life- and he did it well! This is silly. Go Sharks, Go Heater! I expect a HUGE year from him in 2011-2012.
by Ronnibily on Jun 8, 2011 10:04 AM PDT reply actions 2 recs
Rec rec rec
I wish I could sit and rec this all day long.
I love Dany Heatley for his fantastic acting chops and his permanently dilated pupil.
by HeatersLeadingLady on Jun 8, 2011 9:23 PM PDT up reply actions
You forgot about his defense during the playoffs
He was strong on D every series, even though he couldn’t get it going on offense
It doesn’t make any sense that the Sharks would have to shed his contract; They have plenty of room under the cap this year
Now, when they need to start re-signing Pavelski, Guch, and Couture, then I can see getting rid of the contract, but not this year
Quick question about Trades and Buyouts
Are they the same thing? Can you trade someone without having to pay, or anytime you make a trade you have to pay a portion? Or is buyouts only applied to those with NMC?
Daniel Erlich for President
\/\/\/\/\/
/\/\/\/\/\
GO SHARKS!!!
by SharksFanTillDeath on Jun 8, 2011 10:43 AM PDT reply actions
“are buyouts” whoops
Daniel Erlich for President
\/\/\/\/\/
/\/\/\/\/\
GO SHARKS!!!
by SharksFanTillDeath on Jun 8, 2011 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions
No, they are not the same
Ian White was traded for a 2012 second round draft pick. The Sharks took his cap hit from the Hurricanes, but its not like he made 6 million. It was his 3 million pro-rated between the two clubs.
Buyouts happen when the club decides the player is not worth the money for his services and want to buy his contract out from him and let him walk away, but the team is still hit with some of his cap hit and (if I understand it right) lasts as long as the length of his contract. Ottawa has 3 players, Cheechoo, Alferdsson and Emery that they bought out, and combined that hits their next season cap to the tune of about 2.5 million they cant use.
NMC just means the player has the last say of his movement with his club, control of trades and waivers
If the Sharks buyout Heatley, it would be a cap hit till 2014 of wasted money…
by sharkblood99 on Jun 8, 2011 11:46 AM PDT up reply actions
ohhh, ok
thank you for the clarification.
Daniel Erlich for President
\/\/\/\/\/
/\/\/\/\/\
GO SHARKS!!!
by SharksFanTillDeath on Jun 8, 2011 11:50 AM PDT up reply actions
Patience Heatley contract haters!!!
Once you start down the Dark Buyout Path, (it will seem like) forever will it dominate your destiny Cap hit!
by sharkblood99 on Jun 8, 2011 12:25 PM PDT reply actions 1 recs
In non-player rosterbation news, Irbe will not be returning to Washington next year...
…said he has disagreement ofver the direction of the team.
Interesting.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
Total speculation on my part but when I read that earlier I was wondering if Irbe is not liking the “direction” the Caps are leaning with their goaltending next season? It was pretty obvious that the coach preferred Neuvirth/Holtby over Varlamov and I think Irbe was pretty high on Varlamov.
Wonder if Irbe will end up somewhere else.
I'm sure he will.
Too good not to…
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
The Sean Avery buyout makes no sense
Dallas is already paying half his salary, the Rangers would just get stuck paying the other half of his contract for no reason. Wolski isn’t too bad because his age allows the Rangers to take on only 1/3 of his contract as opposed to half. Drury, well unfortunately hindsight is 20/20 in cases like this.
Diehard Ranger fan stopping by because somehow my brother turned into a diehard sharks fan in the 90’s. I blame his love for Shark week :p
"Hey Petr, Smrdíš jako prase!" -Bobby Granger
Hi! ::waves::
Good points. I think we can agree that buying out anyone is a pretty extreme solution that is not that likely to happen. But people do love their rosterbating.
by WhatsAMataHari on Jun 8, 2011 9:39 PM PDT up reply actions
Heatley was a gamble when we signed him
And we all knew it.
I think his numbers declined this season for two reasons:
1) The Injuries.
2) Unreasonable expectations to have Heatley play a two way game.
Our D this year has been nothing spectacular, and when you ask a guy like Heatley to step up his D responsibilities, the scoring is going to decline. He’s just not that player.
I lost count how many times I saw Heatley trying to stick handle this year and simply cough up the puck. That’s not Dany’s game. Why we are expecting him to do that, is beyond me. We should be posting him in around the circles and getting him some crisp passes.
http://www.twitter.com/SteveMortiboys
But he HAVE to buy out Heatley.
Once we sign Stamkos and Ovechkin.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
It'll also give us the cap space to resign Nabby
GO SHARKS!
They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn
Changing signatures is for suckers.
What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.
.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 8, 2011 6:29 PM PDT up reply actions
.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 8, 2011 6:30 PM PDT up reply actions
While looking for that picture on Google Image Search, I also found this one and I love it.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 8, 2011 6:39 PM PDT up reply actions
Anyone surprised that it looks like he’s wearing a Raiders t-shirt? Hahaha sorry, I had to say it.
Waiting for the Cup to come to SJ since 1991...
GO SHARKS!
Find me on Twitter @njahoda
He could probably get Raiders tickets after a few "coin tosses".
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 9, 2011 8:26 AM PDT up reply actions
I'm fine with Heater.
If non-Sharks fans are trying to tell us he’s a terrible player, it’s just cause they’re jealous they don’t have him.
Poor guy has been battling really tough injuries at the end of the year. I always seem to get mad at him come playoff time, but when the injury lists are released, hes always gets the most respect from me.
Randy Hahn - "The Man With The Big Butt - Patrick Marleau - we like him and we cannot lie..."
Guys got 15 goals in 66 playoff games in his career. Strangely, he has 42 assists to get up to almost a point per game.
I don’t think he’s going to suddenly break out with a 5-6 goal series at this point, though I could be wrong. Not going to panic unless he comes back next year with two non-broken hands and still sucks.
A buyout doesn't have to BE right.
It just has to FEEL right. Have you learned nothing from Colbert?
But you’re right. Heatley is good. No need to buy him out, trade, or whatever.
Don't look now but...
Boston is turning the tide of this series. They’re out playing and out hitting the C’s. Vancouver looks frustrated, tired and are pretty banged up.
Boston is a +24 in 5 on 5 situations these playoffs.
Vancouver is a -2.
Ouch!
Whoever wins game 5 wins the series IMO.
Hmm...
Boston is a +24 in 5 on 5 situations these playoffs.
Vancouver is a -2.
This tells me that favourable reffing is, without question, the reason for the Canucks’ success.
The artist formerly know as *"Sharks_Fan_In_Toronto"*
"Those of you who volunteered to be injected praying mantis DNA, I have some good news and some bad news: bad news is we've postponed these test indefinitely. Good news is we've got a much better test for you: fighting an army of mantis men! Pick up a rifle and follow the yellow line. You'll know when the test starts."
by Evil Stanchion on Jun 9, 2011 7:14 AM PDT up reply actions
Boston's Even Strength has always worked in their favor...
…what’s been amazing to me is their insane PK transformation that occurred in this series. They were horrible on the PK before this series for the most part.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
PK & Goaltending
I find it kind of funny that Boston has been able to completely shut down that “scary” Vancouver offence with outstanding penalty killing. Vancouver is still getting quite a few more PP than Boston – 14 to 7 over the last two games.
Vancouver has been living off of their special teams all playoffs and Boston, w/ a stellar PK, has won that battle! I think most people knew (at least I knew) that Boston was a better team 5×5.
Tim Thomas is awesome!!!! Luongo’s home vs. road splits are night and day! He’s great on home ice and 7uongo (or LOLongo) on the road.
Kesler especially
in that " frustrated, tired and are pretty banged up" regards.
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
I know...I know...I'm pulling them into this discussion a LOT, but...
…we need people that play like Marchand.
Brad Marchand on his style of play:
“Obviously, it’s helped my game to try and be a bit of a rat out there.”
If we can mold Eager a bit, I think we’d be doing better, as I can totally see him playing like this consistently.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
Totally!
If Eagers mins were up to 12 a game, I think we would see that…
Nothing shows how badass you are when you turtle, wait for the refs to step in then talk shit, I wanted to see McQuaid destroy Erhoff so bad last night! Great game
Go Bruins
by sharkblood99 on Jun 9, 2011 10:39 AM PDT up reply actions
I like the "Eager Project"
Although I’m wondering if DW or TMac can forgive his game 2 antics vs Vancouver? HUGE upside, major toughness and grit, and the dude can skate and shows flashes of brilliant scoring ability. Not sure he can change his ways, but I guess we could give him a 1 year deal to find out?
When I look at Boston and their tenacity, I’m not sure our Defense could’ve handled their physical play? They’re big and tough and crash the net. So even if we had somehow figured out a way to stop Vancouver and their PP, I’m not convinced we could have beaten Boston? Sad really…
The bigger question would be
Would Eager be willing to buy into it? Todd’s done wonders with Joe when it comes to defensive play, maybe the opposite could happen.
Please don't eat the unicorn.
Winning: n. "An ongoing cycle of competence and achievement in various endeavors. You cannot win; there is only the continuous action of winning."
And that, my friend, is EXACTLY what I'm thinking.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
Game 2 antics..
I think he was doing what Mclellan wanted or he wouldnt have put him out on the ice as much as he did. The sad thing was Eager was doing the other side his job, recklessly true, but the attention was on him, the rest of team needed to step up and take advantage of the distractions caused by his circus act, but they didnt.
by sharkblood99 on Jun 10, 2011 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions
Marchand was sooooooooo sick last night! If the rational Eager could do this consistently and reduce his penalty minutes in half, I would gladly sign him to another 1 year deal. But that’s the problem: we don’t know which Eager will show up—the crazy one or the brilliant one. Go figure.
by sharksfanwithajd on Jun 9, 2011 7:39 PM PDT up reply actions
I absolutely despise Marchand!! Kids got talent, that’s for sure, but throughout his career he’s been a dirty, bitchy, Torres type player! He really seemed to enjoy trying to end guys careers when he was in the AHL. Hasn’t changed a whole lot since coming to the NHL.
However, watching him play against Vancouver is making me change my mind just a little bit.
Which is feeding my point...
…the Bruins have molded him. He’s using that skill correctly rather than haphazardly.
I think we could do the same with Eager.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
And we need a little "Bite" that a rat brings...
…I mean we aren’t the “San Jose Nurse Sharks” :P
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
My Twitter
I concur
Ryane Clowe is about the closest thing to one we have signed for next year (Eager and Nichol being the FAs). Although McGinn appears to be on the track to taking that role.
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
I absolutely despise Marchand!! Kids got talent, that’s for sure, but throughout his career he’s been a dirty, bitchy, Torres type player!
That and he’s only a freakin’ rookie. His talent and game isn’t quite the same, but if he keeps trending up, he will be closer to Corey Perry than Raffi Torres pointswise. I don’t like Marchand, but I would take him in a heartbeat.
"Bobby Orr was available, but we couldn’t fit him in under the cap." - Todd McLellan
"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"
Hounds come out of woodwork?
Must make some mean holes in the planks.
I think it is apalling that a replay of the Horton blindside hit continuously shows up on the side of the screen.
I don’t need to see that shit every time I open a page on this site.
by SanFranciscoKnights on Jun 9, 2011 11:02 PM PDT reply actions
I'm convinced.
Plank is the guy in school that told me about Santa Claus. Damn you, Plank. Damn you straight Winnipeg.
I like my goals like I like my booze..... Top shelf.
by GhostOfLinkGaetz on Jun 10, 2011 12:40 PM PDT reply actions
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