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There's a reason Samuelsson gets our wrath when the Wings are faltering. Simply, no other top 6 forward sticks out like him for failing to make an impact. I haven't seen any of the recent games where he has been playing with Zetts, but it seems Zetts production has fallen off with Sammy on his line. Contrary to what some have posted, complaining about a certain player doesn't make one a "spoiled" fan. Are you worried that Sammy might read this thread and have his feelings hurt? I hope he does read this thread and then elevates his game so he actually earns the minutes of a top 6 forward. To blindly defend Sammy is to defend mediocrity, and to lack faith in the forwards below him waiting for a chance for more minutes. If those forwards below Sammy are not considered top 6 caliber, then the Wings are overdue for an acquisition of another top 6 forward. This, by the way, is what Holland has been saying for at least the last two trade deadlines.

It's probably pointless to talk about the free agent market this summer based on the Wings new policy of fiscal restraint, but there are four more interesting UFAs I would like to add to the list above. Ryan Malone (6'4", 224 lbs, 20 goals, 18 assists): If Hossa lives up to his potential for Pittsburgh in the playoffs, the Penguins will feel the payroll pressure and Malone may not be satisfied with what they can offer. Niklas Hagman (6'0", 205 lbs, 22 goals, 12 assists): If Brad Richards recreates his Tampa Bay glory days while helping Dallas in the playoffs, the Stars may have difficulty keeping Hagman and Richards. Radim Vrbata (27 goals, 24 assists): Highly unlikely that Phoenix would let this integral cog in their young machine get away, but worth watching. George LaRaque: If you think Downey stands up for his teammates, think what LaRaque would do when Pronger or Phaneuf misbehave. Again, Pittsburgh may be needing to dump some salary and LaRaque could be available if the Wings could make room for such a one-dimensional player.

I see it differently. Cleary's absence has shown how much the Red Wings lack consistent scoring from their forwards after Dats, Zetts, and whoever is fortunate enough to be playing with those two. Cleary may be the highest energy player on the team ... a complete pest for opposing teams. He raises the bar for the entire team by his intensity every game. I hope they resign him and not insult him by playing hardball in the negotiations.

I think we're going to like what Stuart does for the team, and I am optimistic about the Wings in the playoffs if they are really close to 100% healthy. My main concern is that Stuart is an UFA this summer who will probably be looking for more money than his current $3.5 mill. Hopefully Stuart plays well enough that the Wings want to keep him, and that they can come to terms. Otherwise, it's another rental, which I thought Holland was opposed to this time around.

Unless I missed something, I am surprised that Holland gave up anything for a player they have no guarantee will stay with the Wings once he becames an UFA this summer. I thought I read recently that Holland was not interested in rentals after Bertuzzi. Apparently Holland and staff think Stuart will shine as a Wing (which I think will happen), and they think they can sign him this summer to the tune of 3.5 mill (his current salary) or more, if necessary.