joesuffP

I'm holding out hope that we package Smith + something for an upgrade

I can see Holland striking out on Phaneuf and the big FA's being too pricey so he settles for a guy who would probably come cheap on a short deal. Holland did everything possible to get a defensemen last free agency I don't think anybody in management is satisfied with the defensive lineup

The cheap and safe way to address a need in more ways than one. Holland is too predictable these days

I guarantee Holland signs Zids

Anybody have an update on Cole? I know his injury was pretty severe but I wouldn't be opposed to resigning him if he was able to play

Blashill should get a pass if we miss. He's not going to be the best coach in hockey right out the gate. Babcock barely got them there with the same roster. Seems people are just trying to get their "I told you so's" ready. This team is rebuilding. I'm just hoping for the best and enjoying the ride

Mantha has said all the right things in interviews. Seems like he's got a good attitude and desire to work hard based on his comments. Admittedly I've only seen him play in the World Junior. Based of scouting reports, he's always been a guy that is in good position to score and just finds a way to be around the net. He's not a Larkin that does everything all over the ice so when he's not scoring he isn't doing much A kid whose a good skater, got size and has a knack around the net will eventually get the hang of things as long as he has the right attitude. I've never heard him say anything that would make me question his character

Is he standing out or just right place right time?

Wow i wish i could watch this. Thanks for the updates. Go Grand Rapids Larkins!!

Stop being excited about our new coach guys!

We actually haven't developed a competent top 4 defensemen since Kronwall.... maybe Quincey? Ericsson I guess. Still, not a great track record with defense

Is it pretty much a given that we promote Blashill if/when Babcock leaves?

It's crazy how many great RH defensemen have changed teams over the last few years that would have helped our defense situation immensely. Niskanen, Boyle, Stralman, Myers, Garrison.......

oh poop, just read people mentioning him earlier in the thread figured he was

Hornqvist is one of the best net front guys in the NHL, shoots right and has some grit. Wouldn't be a bad pickup.

Him being a better all around player. I don't understand all the flack he's getting I thought he was one of our better players these playoffs. There's more to his game than just points. He's developing as a good playmaker and his defensive game is getting better and better. I think the franchise views him as the more valuable asset as well. Tatar was the most disappointing player these playoffs for me

Nyquist>>>>Tatar

Dekeseyer needs to work on his point shot. There's no reason why he can't put pucks on net with his frame and hockey IQ. Not having anybody on the blueline that can get pucks on goal is a massive team weakness

That's not true at all. I like Ericsson but Phaneuf is much better at pretty much everything to do with hockey than Ericsson

Holland will need to go out and get a big body top 6 winger with Franzens career in jeopardy. Need an impact player on defense... I like the idea of Phaneuf, Kronwall, Deke, and Q as a top 4, that's a pretty mean defense actually

Some good coaches available actually. If Babs leaves, it won't be too devastating. I think he was a huge part of our success in the playoffs but some new blood wouldn't be the worst thing ever. I do hope he resigns though. Although, coaches would love to come here where they are treated with a lot of respect

doubt babs rushed to do a radio interview directly after the game to declare he won't be back next

Hossa had 22 goals in more games played with much better line mates on a generally much better offensive team.

At least Datsyuk levelled Flippula in the game Cole played like 6 games for us... Won't be hard to replace

22 goals in a injury shortened season. He makes that line happen