If Hasek were to retire...

[OsGOD 3]

I would just hang it up and retire the Winged logo... if we can't we in it with the best, whats the point in even trying

God I love offseason goalie covetting talks, it's so much fun to hear who we "need" to win a cup and yet the OUTCOME the next season is ALWAYS the same IT AIN'T THE GOALIE!

Edited May 25, 2007 by OsGOD

[TheDude 0]

Saying anyone would be better than Osgood/Howard is taking it a bit far but...

Osgood is a decent goalie, and has been a good team player in his role as backup.There is alot to be said for the professional way in which he has handled his role on the team, and I don't think anyone would disagree with that. Here's tthe problem with him. He is a decent goalie. He just doesn't posess the skillset to steal games in the playoffs, and to win the cup you need that in a goalie. If they do go with Osgood next year they are not going to lose because of him, but they will not win games because of him either.

The reason why the Wings have played "goalie musical chairs" as it has been pointed out in this thread and others is because the goalie is by far the most important deciding factor in who wins the cup each year, and situational issues.

Vernon was brought in because the Wings didn't feel Osgood could get the job done, and left after the 97 cup so the Wings decided to give Osgood another chance in 98 and it paid off; they repeated as cup champions. However, if we are honest about it they won in very large part due to the sentimental motivation behind the tragedy that followed their cup win in the previous year. Hasek was brought in for obvious reasons...he is an elite goalie and he absolutely lived up to the hype and gave one of the best playoff performances by a goalie in recent memory; he left the Wings after winning the cup.

Legace and Cujo both proved to be mentally weak. Now we have Hasek back, and through their run he was their best player. Without any doubt he stole a game in both the San Jose and Aneheim series...

[Earthhuman 8]

1. Make a pitch for Giguere. While he will be expensive as hell, and I like to make pad jokes about him all the time, he'd still be a decent goalie to have.

We could pick him up with Lang's salary! The same salary... that... we're spending on Zata.

Giguere loves Anaheim anyway, and Anaheim loves him. He should stay there.

[DEVILSWATERBOY 10]

Anyone would be better than an Osgood-Howard tandem? And you know this how?

If a guy like Toskala and Backstrom could be had, explore the possibility of getting him, but I don't want a new goalie just for the sake of getting a new goalie and for this 'tender to be the new whipping boy under the microscope on LGW.

For the love of god, I'd like to see this organization not play goalies like it was a game of musical chairs. Stick with what we have if Hasek stays.

Even if he does retire, what is so wrong with giving the #1 job to Osgood? I will never, ever understand on here why so many fans just don't trust the guy.

And the whole theory that he's a backup goalie now is bulls**t. He was injured off/on when he was splitting time with Legace 2 seasons ago, and Legace made enough of an impression during the 2004-05 season to be deemed the starter going in the playoffs. I can guarantee you if Osgood was more healthy during that series in Edmonton, he would've eventaully played. And with Hasek being able to stay healthy most of this season and what he's done with his career, and with Osgood still not getting the breaks with injuries, he didn't play as much as he probably could/should have.

EDIT: That's 1 season where he split time with another goalie when he was injured off/on through the season, and another where he was playing second fiddle to one of the best goalies of his time in Hasek. You could pretty much insert "goaltender name" here and he was going to be backup to Hasek this year provided Hasek was healthy, which he was. So the whole Osgood is a backup theory is a bunch of b.s.

If the Wings go out and sign a guy like Toskala or Backstrom, one of those two will be splittling time equally with Osgood, or the starts will be 60%-40% at most. If Osgood and Howard were tandem, it would be more like 70%-30% starts in favor of Osgood. In a course of an 80+ game season, that's not a whole lot of difference.

Again, I'm all for the Wings exploring free agent options at goalie if Hasek retires. I just don't see how signing other 'tenders, other than maybe Giguere (who I highly doubt Anaheim will let go), will be that much of a SIGNIFICANT UPGRADE over Osgood to where it ultimately provides "the" major difference in making another deep playoff run.

My thoughts exactly all of us have to remember Ozzie did win a cup here and the only reason he left was because Dom signed with the Wings

[Guest ZDH]

My thoughts exactly all of us have to remember Ozzie did win a cup here and the only reason he left was because Dom signed with the Wings

I like Osgood. He is a consumate team player. However I do not think at this stage in his career that he is capable of being a starting goalie on a Cup contending team. I think he is the perfect back up and is capable of being a starter if an injury to Dom occurs. For a period of time that is.

I also am wary of the fact that Osgood tends to be injured himself despite not playing in many games. Lets say it's Osgood and Howard next season for argument's sake. If Osgood goes down then it's all on Howard. Is he ready for that? Maybe. Perhaps he pulls a Cam Ward and takes off as the #1 guy.

Still, I'd rather be like the Rangers and Sabres and show more patience. Goalies are weird. You just never know with them. I think Howard is the real deal but he needs 1 more season. And when he is ready, we will all be glad the Wings were patient with him.

[puckloo39 5,686]

rational decision about a goalie in Detroit?

I am not a big Drew Sharp fan, but he makes some very good points in this article. At least he sounds rational to me.

Anyway, his comments are better than "Hassek SUKS!" and other so-called reasons for bringing in Giggy or someone else as the Wings' goalie, over Dom coming back. For all we know, Dom is making the same rational points and deciding if he really is the best option for his team, not making an emotional decision because he loves the Wings and wants to still play.

Sharp got several things right here:

"He [Hasek] successfully silenced those who challenged his professionalism and integrity. They called him a quitter in Ottawa last year. He shut them up during this playoff run. It doesn't matter that the Senators advanced to their first modern-era Stanley Cup final with Hasek's successor, Ray Emery, between the pipes. Hasek showed that when he's equally motivated and healthy, he remains extraordinarily intimidating."

Great, someone finally said it! Ottawa was wrong about Dom, and he proved it.

That said, while I think Dom may come back, I can also see him bowing out if he decides that Giggy or someone else is better for the team he loves. I think Detroit loves Dom (again) and maybe that's enough for him. We will see, eh?

[Guest ZDH]

rational decision about a goalie in Detroit?

I am not a big Drew Sharp fan, but he makes some very good points in this article. At least he sounds rational to me.

Anyway, his comments are better than "Hassek SUKS!" and other so-called reasons for bringing in Giggy or someone else as the Wings' goalie, over Dom coming back. For all we know, Dom is making the same rational points and deciding if he really is the best option for his team, not making an emotional decision because he loves the Wings and wants to still play.

Sharp got several things right here:

"He [Hasek] successfully silenced those who challenged his professionalism and integrity. They called him a quitter in Ottawa last year. He shut them up during this playoff run. It doesn't matter that the Senators advanced to their first modern-era Stanley Cup final with Hasek's successor, Ray Emery, between the pipes. Hasek showed that when he's equally motivated and healthy, he remains extraordinarily intimidating."

Great, someone finally said it! Ottawa was wrong about Dom, and he proved it.

That said, while I think Dom may come back, I can also see him bowing out if he decides that Giggy or someone else is better for the team he loves. I think Detroit loves Dom (again) and maybe that's enough for him. We will see, eh?

I've followed Hasek's career closely and he is one of my favourite goalies of all time. I always wanted him on the Wings even when he was a Sabre. I applauded Holland signing Dom this past summer because I knew if he was healthy then he would be again one of the best. And he certainly was.

Lets face it. The Sens used Dom as a scapegoat for their playoff failure last season. We all know it. Hasek got all the blame and it was a joke really. I mean the guy was hurt. Period. When he played for them he was great.

And is still great. I think in 3 weeks he will want to play another season. Right now he is still likely pissed that his team lost. He is likely worn out. He just needs some time to relax and get away from the game for awhile. Like all players need to do in the summer.

I mean when you play 3 rounds of playoff along with an 82 game regular season and pre-season, it's a grind.

I hope and expect for Dom to be back. He likes the Wings and the Wings like him. "Oh well you know I I I I I want to play 1 more maybe 2 you know I I I I I...."

[puckloo39 5,686]

I've followed Hasek's career closely and he is one of my favourite goalies of all time. I always wanted him on the Wings even when he was a Sabre. I applauded Holland signing Dom this past summer because I knew if he was healthy then he would be again one of the best. And he certainly was.

Lets face it. The Sens used Dom as a scapegoat for their playoff failure last season. We all know it. Hasek got all the blame and it was a joke really. I mean the guy was hurt. Period. When he played for them he was great.

THAT is the truth. They are still whining about it over on the Ottawa boards. Ray Emery was outstanding for them when Dom was injured, but that didn't mean a thing -- they still blamed Dom. The ONLY good thing about the fact that the Wings are not facing the Sens in the Finals, from my perspective, is that I won't have to read and listen to all the Hasek bashing from bitter Ottawa fans, and the media making a circus out of Dom versus Emery.

Ottawa should just be happy they are where they are right now, and get over it. Dom certainly has. He never wanted to leave the Wings in the first place for Ottawa. I hope he makes the right decision for himself and his Wings.

Edited May 25, 2007 by puckloo39

[HuntsVegas Baby 0]

If Hasek retires then

it must be 2002? no wait 2004, maybe 2005 ok 2006!

Either that or he is Micheal Jordan

[Wing Nut 0]

I'm affraid we may have captured lighting in a bottle with Hasek this year. I think we need to make a move on Toskala (sp). NO GIGGY I don't want that cheater in a winged wheel. Howard and Ozzie are not the answer.

[Wings_Fan_In_Exile 3]

I personally think Toskala offers the best situation, he or Backstrom would bring the most power for the dollar. But I don't think Minnesota parts with Backstrom, and like some others suggested it could be Toskala's chance to really break out as a starter and a go to guy for the post season.

I like the 4th idea of getting Bert back for a reasonable price...

Now if you've read this far go get a cookie, you deserve it..... Feel free to praise or question my logic and sanity or lackthereof in this post Let the criticism begin!

Nice post

I think Toskala would be a good fit, but I do not believe he is a UFA. RFA or still under contract? Cuz I wouldn't be excited to trade anybody from this roster, as I think somebody mentioned earlier in this thread.

I like keeping Bert around as long as he doesn't ask for too much money.

As far as the Osgood backup vs #1 debate: my two cents- he is a good solid goalie, but not the goalie to steal us any games in the playoffs.

I agree with The Dude saying "If they do go with Osgood next year they are not going to lose because of him, but they will not win games because of him either.

And I agree with ZDH - "I also am wary of the fact that Osgood tends to be injured himself despite not playing in many games. Lets say it's Osgood and Howard next season for argument's sake. If Osgood goes down then it's all on Howard. Is he ready for that? Maybe. Perhaps he pulls a Cam Ward and takes off as the #1 guy."

Heck even TSN scouts Osgood as:

Scouting Report

Assets Doesn't let outside distractions faze him. Is an excellent team player. Usually plays in control and can become a starter in a pinch.

Flaws Is no longer starter material. Still lets in soft goals on occasion. Has always had trouble with long shots.

Career potential No. 2 goaltender.

[glasgowcelticwing 18]

I like Osgood. He is a consumate team player. However I do not think at this stage in his career that he is capable of being a starting goalie on a Cup contending team. I think he is the perfect back up and is capable of being a starter if an injury to Dom occurs. For a period of time that is.

I also am wary of the fact that Osgood tends to be injured himself despite not playing in many games. Lets say it's Osgood and Howard next season for argument's sake. If Osgood goes down then it's all on Howard. Is he ready for that? Maybe. Perhaps he pulls a Cam Ward and takes off as the #1 guy.

Still, I'd rather be like the Rangers and Sabres and show more patience. Goalies are weird. You just never know with them. I think Howard is the real deal but he needs 1 more season. And when he is ready, we will all be glad the Wings were patient with him.

I think Ozzie IS still capable of being the Red Wings number 1 goaltender , if only he could stay health and get a solid run of game's too build up momentum and get his game together.

I wouldn't mind the Wings bringing in Backstrom tho , if Hasek does retire and Ozzie isn't deemed good enough to be No 1.

[OsGOD 3]

Well I would like to see him actually get a chance to suceed before everyone throws in the towel on him.... He hasn't played horrible enough as starter to warrant all the "no longer good enough" statements. I was impressed with his job he did on the Isles and the Blues. I mean SERIOUSLY.... what the worst that could happen... We don't win the cup? Been there done that with the best of them.... I highly doubt that we would miss the playoffs... hell he made it with the blues and New York.... and nobody can tell me they have a better regular season team than ours.

Injuries have sucked lately for him... you could also say that is becuase he isn't seeing "game action" on a consistant basis. The longer you don't play (no matter how much you practice) the easier it is to get hurt once you do start playing.

Edited May 25, 2007 by OsGOD

[YoungGuns1340 1]

Number one thing to remember: A CRAPPY GOALTENDING SITUATION IS A DETERRENT TO FREE AGENTS. Nobody wants to sign with a team that boasts Osgood and a rookie.

Giguere will cost a lot, and there are a lot of teams in the hunt for a starting goaltender of elite calibre. I wouldnt mind seeing Giguere here, but not long term and not at the 5M price tag he apparently wants. I also have reservations about the system that he plays in. Anaheim is a very good team at keeping the offense to the outsides and that benefits Giguere's lack of lateral movement. Im not so sure hed flourish similarly in Detroit. On the other hand, the few shots hell face would benefit him.

Another option is also the looming trade of Manny Fernandez. And as in option, I dont mean an option for the Wings. Rather its an option for the team that misses out when Detroit gets Giguere or Toskala. Detroit wont fork out the 4.5/4.75 that Fernandez has remaining on his contract for two years when they could pay a little more and get Giguere or trade for Nabokov who are both better than Fernandez.

The BEST option, given that Backstrom is pretty much gonna be back with the Wild, is Vesa Toskala. He is cheap at 1.375, although he is only covered for one year, which could lower his value a little. Either way, he wont come cheap given that his salary is so cap friendly and that hes a proven starter who did well even in front of San Jose's not so noteworthy defense. I wouldnt mind seeing Detroit trade for Toskala, but he may be out of Detroits league or market. Im not sure Detroit has to offer what it would take to get Toskala.

[Opie 308]

I like the Toskala/osgood then toskala/howard option. But is Toskala really that proven?

Asking that question honestly, he had 12 wins in 28 starts 2 years ago and 23 wins in 37 starts last year. Good stats but he has a very talented team in front of him. Has he been winning or stealing games for them? I just haven't heard to much of him and wondering if he is going to be that good or if it is the fact that for some reason San Jose turns out good goalies like it is their job!

[motorcitykid 42]

It's pretty likely Dom has played his last game since there's little reason in him coming back for one more season. Personally, I wish he would. I don't think Howard is really ready, but unless he gets some games, who really, truly knows what he is going to mean to this club. As for Toskala, JSG or Backstrom, this is the same old crap recycled from last summer. Any of those three? No thanks.

[Winged Scooter 0]

I heard on the WDFN sports update on my way back from lunch today, that it was reported that Hasek and Chelios both stated they wanted to come back next year. :banana:

[FinWing 26]

I heard on the WDFN sports update on my way back from lunch today, that it was reported that Hasek and Chelios both stated they wanted to come back next year. :banana:

That would be awesome! I'm sure Dom still has at least one good year left in him.

EDIT: And Cheli obviously has another five or so.

Edited May 25, 2007 by FinWing

[Guest ZDH]

I heard on the WDFN sports update on my way back from lunch today, that it was reported that Hasek and Chelios both stated they wanted to come back next year. :banana:

Excellent news. Maybe we can not re-sign Schneider and give his PP time to Chelly. LOL

[motorcitykid 42]

I heard on the WDFN sports update on my way back from lunch today, that it was reported that Hasek and Chelios both stated they wanted to come back next year. :banana:

In regards to Hasek, is this new stuff? Because I know he said he would "like" to be back, but would take a few weeks to decided if he "should".

[Kp-Wings 3]

We could pick him up with Lang's salary! The same salary... that... we're spending on Zata.

Giguere loves Anaheim anyway, and Anaheim loves him. He should stay there.

Hehe, I see you still have my misguided post on Roenicks salary. Do you ever plan to take that out?

[glasgowcelticwing 18]

I heard on the WDFN sports update on my way back from lunch today, that it was reported that Hasek and Chelios both stated they wanted to come back next year. :banana:

I hope it's true , Hasek's still one of the best goaltender's out there , and Cheli is an warrior who at 45 years old can put half the defencemen in the NHL to shame.

[eva unit zero 271]

However, if we are honest about it they won in very large part due to the sentimental motivation behind the tragedy that followed their cup win in the previous year.

So, be honest. You think that Chris Osgood couldn't have won the Cup in 1997, when his top four defensemen would have included Vladimir Konstantinov instead of Anders Eriksson?

[/font]

Or how about 2002, when Dominik Hasek had the two best defensemen in the world at the time?

Osgood=Only Wings netminder to win the Cup while Lidstrom was the only Norris contender on the team.

I am soooo sick of the 'well, Ozzie didn't really win the Cup like Vernie and Hasek did' s*** given that his squad was easily the worst team of the three

[Vladinator 0]

So, be honest. You think that Chris Osgood couldn't have won the Cup in 1997, when his top four defensemen would have included Vladimir Konstantinov instead of Anders Eriksson?

[/font]

Or how about 2002, when Dominik Hasek had the two best defensemen in the world at the time?

Osgood=Only Wings netminder to win the Cup while Lidstrom was the only Norris contender on the team.

I am soooo sick of the 'well, Ozzie didn't really win the Cup like Vernie and Hasek did' s*** given that his squad was easily the worst team of the three

Yzerman himself said that if not for Vladdy being there in his wheelchiar to hand the cup to, it would have went first to Osgood because of how well he played for them in 98. I too am tired of the bs statements that anyone could have won it the year that Osgood won it. You don't win the cup without quality goaltending in ANY season.

[puckloo39 5,686]

Today's "Dom Watch" News:

not sayin'

Well, Hasek's stickin' to his guns. He said he will decide in a couple of weeks and he meant it. His kids are still in school and I guess he wants to figure out what's best for everyone, not just himself and the Wings. He's completely healthy, and a 100% Hasek is hands down the better choice in goal than pretty much anyone else out there. Babcock loves Dom. He should; no need to coach this goalie.

Quote:

Coach Mike Babcock said he'll do his part to ensure Hasek's return.

"I'm going to take over a bottle of wine to his house," Babcock said. "I know he lives somewhere in my neighborhood. I'll take over my wife, too, and we'll sit out on his deck and talk it out.

"I really like Dom. He's a quality, quality guy who brought a lot to this team. We'd like to have him back but we need to let him make his decision and be comfortable with it."

at what price, Dom?

"At what price? Including incentives, Hasek cost the Wings $1.65 million this season -- a bargain by almost any standard. He'll get a raise, but Hasek has made it clear he doesn't want to play anywhere else and, truth is, he has given back nearly as much money as he has been paid in Detroit the last five years. "

Pay the man, Detroit. You still won't find a better deal. Dom won't be the one breaking the bank, if he does return.

freep on Dom and other FAs

If you want to know the real factor on Dom's pending return/retirement, here's what to worry about. He loves his family and listens to them. He was so miserable when he did retire that one season, his wife gave in and told him to go back to Detroit and play. But....

"Dominik Hasek was a big factor in the Wings reaching Round 3 instead of losing in the first or second round, as had happened in each of the previous three playoffs, and much of Friday's focus was on whether he would return. He seems inclined to do so, but his wife is believed to be angling for them to retire to their native Czech Republic. Hasek wants at least two to three weeks to decide."

The day after the Stanley Cup parade, Dom's wife had the bags packed to leave the country. I think she's wanted to go home since 1999. It's a dilemma for him, I am sure. Give in to the family and go home? Be miserable again, or learn to live with the fact that you could still play, but at what cost to the other part of your life?

Hockey players are human, too. Some are still mad at Cheli over Handshake Gate. Big deal. Cheli's still the man, as far as I am concerned.

no shake for you, Ducks