Mule close to signing

[TheOwl 77]

Someone mentioned it, if Lidstrom signs an extention, does his total cap hit go down for his remaining year?

[titanium2 867]

There is a big gap between whining and pointing out a fundamental flaw in your approach to posting in an effort to help you out. Not that I expected you to get over yourself for long enough to let it sink in. By all means, continue with the misguided and unwarranted cynicism. I'm sure it's healthy and fun.

Oh come on. It's no fun for them if you don't play along. Then they'll just have to go out and blow Bambi's head off in order to feel like a man.

[Broken 16 381]

Oh come on. It's no fun for them if you don't play along. Then they'll just have to go out and blow Bambi's head off in order to feel like a man.

Sorry. Moment of weakness. Won't happen again.

[Dano33 41]

Maybe if we could make the right trade at maybe the draft we could free up some space to keep Franzen and Hossa and still be able to bring up someone in GR.

Kronwall and Flip for the #2 overall (Hedman). Do i think it even has a chance of happening? No.

Edited April 2, 2009 by Dano33

[Guest Shoreline]

There is a big gap between whining and pointing out a fundamental flaw in your approach to posting in an effort to help you out. Not that I expected you to get over yourself for long enough to let it sink in. By all means, continue with the misguided and unwarranted cynicism. I'm sure it's healthy and fun.

Well, maybe you're overlooking the fundamental flaw in your posting. Let's see if you figure it out. *points to topic*

In the meantime, I fully expect there to be a ton of whiny ass topics regarding Hossa, and justifiably, it would be ironic given the amount of attention Penguins fans got on this board for feeling betrayed in a sense, over a deadline rental. Maybe you just lack a sense of humor, or even better, get annoyed at how I post, which tells me I'm on the right track.

[Hockeytown Red Wings 245]

Really? Another bitchfest?

Save it for the Royal Rumble that is the GDT.

Edited April 2, 2009 by Hockeytown Red Wings

[Guest Shoreline]

Really? Another bitchfest?

Really. It'll only get worse if Hossa doesn't re-sign.

[Broken 16 381]

There was a time, not so long ago, that I was adamant that Franzen should walk and Hossa MUST stay. It's hard to not be impressed with him as a player. The last few weeks have made me rethink my stance. Taking everything into account and based on the needs that the Mule fills (size, defensive responsibility, clutch performances, net presence, size, soft hands, size), I feel like it would be much better for the big picture to let Hossa walk unless he is willing to sign for a ridiculously low salary.

[DatsMyWings13 4]

There was a time, not so long ago, that I was adamant that Franzen should walk and Hossa MUST stay. It's hard to not be impressed with him as a player. The last few weeks have made me rethink my stance. Taking everything into account and based on the needs that the Mule fills (size, defensive responsibility, clutch performances, net presence, size, soft hands, size), I feel like it would be much better for the big picture to let Hossa walk unless he is willing to sign for a ridiculously low salary.

This is exactly how I feel. Early on I wanted Hossa to stay and Franzen to go but I've come around.

[Broken 16 381]

Well, maybe you're overlooking the fundamental flaw in your posting. Let's see if you figure it out. *points to topic*

In the meantime, I fully expect there to be a ton of whiny ass topics regarding Hossa, and justifiably, it would be ironic given the amount of attention Penguins fans got on this board for feeling betrayed in a sense, over a deadline rental. Maybe you just lack a sense of humor, or even better, get annoyed at how I post, which tells me I'm on the right track.

First off... your assessment of fan response to Hossa leaving is not only wrong, but DEAD WRONG. I find it hard to believe that I actually have to point out the difference to someone that is so well informed as you claim to be, but here goes.

Hossa wanted to leave Pittsburgh. The fans wanted him to stay, the coaches wanted him to stay, the front office wanted him to stay, Mario wanted him to stay... even Crosby basically begged him to stay. He still left. The reason? He wanted the best chance to win a Cup. That's a jagged pill for a fan base to swallow. When the best winger on your team leaves after going to the Finals and cites THAT as the reason.

The situation in Detroit will be different for many reasons, but mainly for ONE reason. Hossa has said repeatedly that he wants to figure out a way to stay and that he is willing to take less to make it happen.

End of story. Your prophecy falls short on that one fact, so let it go already. Thanks.

Second of all... I do have a sense of humor. I find find something to laugh at you about in almost every debate you're involved in. See?

Edited April 2, 2009 by Broken 16

[Guest Shoreline]

First off... your assessment of fan response to Hossa leaving is not only wrong, but DEAD WRONG. I find it hard to believe that I actually have to point out the difference to someone that is so well informed as you claim to be, but here goes.

Hossa wanted to leave Pittsburgh. The fans wanted him to stay, the coaches wanted him to stay, the front office wanted him to stay, Mario wanted him to stay... even Crosby basically begged him to stay. He still left. The reason? He wanted the best chance to win a Cup. That's a jagged pill for a fan base to swallow. When the best winger on your team leaves after going to the Finals and cites THAT as the reason.

Wow, people have already whined about Hossa potentially not staying and he hasn't even left. One poster already responded to me with a similar statement, only verifying that if Hossa does in fact leave, there will be whiners. So I guess it's left up to, "we'll see".

The situation in Detroit will be different for many reasons, but mainly for ONE reason. Hossa has said repeatedly that he wants to figure out a way to stay and that he is willing to take less to make it happen.

End of story. Your prophecy falls short on that one fact, so let it go already. Thanks.

Really? That's odd..

http://www.freep.com/article/20090323/SPOR.../903230384/1053

"To be able to stay as a Red Wing, I am prepared to take less money, but a fair deal, so both sides are happy. That's what I'm looking for. I know if I go somewhere else, I could have more, but I'm willing to take less to stay here. Hopefully things work out."

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/28041-p...s-cup-over-cash

"If I wanted to make a couple more dollars, I would probably just re-sign with Atlanta. But, I'm glad Pittsburgh got me here. This was a fun journey for myself and a great experience. I hope I can stick with a great team like this" said Hossa.

"There's always a limit, but I'd rather take a little less and play on a good team, definitely", he added.

Your argument obviously sucks, as shown above. ^ So, since you love to dwell on words, then certainly Hossa stayed a Penguin because he emphasized staying there would be nice, contrary to your fabrication of Hossa wanting to leave, which, while he was with the Penguins, gave every indication that he wanted to stay there too. As for me, I'll do the intelligent thing and wait for him to sign on the dotted line, until then, he's a rental. And I sure can't wait, if he doesn't re-sign, to see people whine.

Edited April 2, 2009 by Shoreline

[55fan 5,133]

I want them both, and if Hossa can't be kept, so be it. I've tried not to get too attached, but he's my desktop at the moment (changes before each game). I will be sad if he leaves, but in all honesty, I'd rather have the Mule cheaper if I have to choose.

To make me happy, all we need is unlimited roster and cap space. Make it happen, Kenny.

(That last part was a joke, btw.)

Edited April 2, 2009 by 55fan

[FLWINGSFAN4013 5]

Good for Franzen and the Wings if he re-signs at a reasonable contract -- hopefully with some sort of stipulation that concerns the future cap hit, if the Wings are smart.

But the funny thing is if Hossa doesn't re-sign with the Wings without a doubt we're going to see a lot of butt-hurt, whiny ass topics from people who got all attached to a rental just like the Penguins fans we made fun of this last summer/fall. Ironic.

we only gave up money for hossa instead of players and picks, which is what would of happened had we got him at last years deadline.

[Guest Shoreline]

we only gave up money for hossa instead of players and picks, which is what would of happened had we got him at last years deadline.

True, however, he signed a one year agreement with the sole intention of playing a single year to win a cup, not to stay as a Red Wing. So he's a one year rental (albeit at FAR less a price than Pittsburgh paid, who lost young talent/prospects and a #1 pick ), despite what he says, until he signs another contract, and people shouldn't take what he's saying any differently than when he said it in Pittsburgh, regarding wanting to stay. It's all talk (but don't tell Broken who wants to be a ****** about it and make it seem like it means any more).

The funny thing is after the Pens declared Malkin their #1 priority, Hossa's language changed. Now that the Wings look like they're making Franzen their priority, I'm sure plenty of people will be speculating what Hossa does -- especially if Franzen does re-sign first.

Anyways, I'm sure we can agree that all this talk about taking less is pissing off the PA, and that is inherently a good thing.

Edited April 2, 2009 by Shoreline

[Broken 16 381]

Wow, people have already whined about Hossa potentially not staying and he hasn't even left. One poster already responded to me with a similar statement, only verifying that if Hossa does in fact leave, there will be whiners. So I guess it's left up to, "we'll see".

Really? That's odd..

http://www.freep.com/article/20090323/SPOR.../903230384/1053

Yup... read that story a long time ago. Did I miss the part where he said he DIDN'T want to stay? Not really sure what you're saying here.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/28041-p...s-cup-over-cash

... or here

So, since you love to dwell on words, then certainly Hossa stayed a Penguin because he emphasized staying there would be nice, contrary to your fabrication of Hossa wanting to leave, which, while he was with the Penguins, gave every indication that he wanted to stay there too. As for me, I'll do the intelligent thing and wait for him to sign on the dotted line, until then, he's a rental. And I sure can't wait, if he doesn't re-sign, to see people whine.

So dude handles his business like a gentlemen and acts humble knowing that he is probably the best winger in the game. Somehow this is an indictment on his character?

Obviously Hossa wanted to leave... he left. The guy has made it clear from the get go. He wants to win a Cup. He's more concerned with winning a Cup than he is about money. His actions have proven it. Obviously, Pittsburgh was a contender when that snippet was written. So... he passed up more money for the chance. If Hossa decides that some other team is a stronger contender next season, he might jump again...

Whatever...

Aside from all this we both agree that letting Hossa walk unless he signs for a ridiculous salary is probably a lot better for the team.

Can't help but appreciate the irony of being accused of dwelling on words while I'm reading text. See, I do have a sense of humor.

[Guest Shoreline]

So dude handles his business like a gentlemen and acts humble knowing that he is probably the best winger in the game. Somehow this is an indictment on his character?

Obviously Hossa wanted to leave... he left. The guy has made it clear from the get go. He wants to win a Cup. He's more concerned with winning a Cup than he is about money. His actions have proven it. Obviously, Pittsburgh was a contender when that snippet was written. So... he passed up more money for the chance. If Hossa decides that some other team is a stronger contender next season, he might jump again...

Whatever...

Aside from all this we both agree that letting Hossa walk unless he signs for a ridiculous salary is probably a lot better for the team.

Can't help but appreciate the irony of being accused of dwelling on words while I'm reading text. See, I do have a sense of humor.

He's acting like a gentleman here too, what's the difference? He's doing a very typical posture that shouldn't be taken for anything more than that. You're mistaking words for meaning anything more than that. You're assuming that just because he says he wants to re-sign, that it has any validity, when it never does, and even better, he's said the same s*** before. All I'm telling people is the same thing I said when Hossa signed last summer, which is he's a rental until he re-signs. Oh, and that I expect Wings fans to whine just like the Pens fans they made fun of if he doesn't re-sign.. remember, that's the whole reason for the attitude you have.

[Broken 16 381]

He's acting like a gentleman here too, what's the difference? He's doing a very typical posture that shouldn't be taken for anything more than that. You're mistaking words for meaning anything more than that. You're assuming that just because he says he wants to re-sign, that it has any validity, when it never does, and even better, he's said the same s*** before. All I'm telling people is the same thing I said when Hossa signed last summer, which is he's a rental until he re-signs. Oh, and that I expect Wings fans to whine just like the Pens fans they made fun of if he doesn't re-sign.. remember, that's the whole reason for the attitude you have.

And what attitude is that?

[SouthernWingsFan 854]

[Cern 0]

In the meantime, I fully expect there to be a ton of whiny ass topics regarding Hossa, and justifiably, it would be ironic given the amount of attention Penguins fans got on this board for feeling betrayed in a sense, over a deadline rental. Maybe you just lack a sense of humor, or even better, get annoyed at how I post, which tells me I'm on the right track.

I'm not sure the situations really match up, though. The Penguins dumped a big chunk of their team to get Hossa for what, three months? The Wings got him at no expense to their existing roster (save Drake of course) for well under his market value and has been playing for the team for a considerably longer amount of time. Plus he's been on record many, many times saying he loves playing here and is more than happy to take a pay cut to stay, something I don't recall him ever really outright saying while with Pittsburgh.

Pre-ordaining it as 'whiny-ass' topics over his 'betrayal' is cynical to a frankly childish degree, unlike Pittsburgh there's no grounds for calling it a 'betrayal' in the first place. Hossa ditched Pittsburgh completely of his own volition knowing he'd be pretty much set for life, if he has to search the market this offseason it's not going to be because he wants to.

[Drake_Marcus 890]

At this point people need to keep their expectations very, very low, and have only a realistic glimmer of hope that their "have-our-cake-and-eat-it-too" wishes come true. This team is still a cup contender even without Hossa.

^ This.

I know we all want to believe that Holland can have both Franzen and Hossa sign on the dotted line, and I'm sure he could work that out if he started trading and dumping players....

But a balanced, deep team where Datsuyk, Zetterberg, Hossa, Franzen, Lidstrom and Rafalski all reside is something we should only really bank for the remainder of this season... If Holland can pull that rabbit out of his hat then we're all really lucky fans, but let's not assume he will because more than likely you're setting yourself up for a rough summer.

[Johnny Diamonds 25]

^ This.

I know we all want to believe that Holland can have both Franzen and Hossa sign on the dotted line, and I'm sure he could work that out if he started trading and dumping players....

But a balanced, deep team where Datsuyk, Zetterberg, Hossa, Franzen, Lidstrom and Rafalski all reside is something we should only really bank for the remainder of this season... If Holland can pull that rabbit out of his hat then we're all really lucky fans, but let's not assume he will because more than likely you're setting yourself up for a rough summer.

I would be alright with losing Hossa if it meant we can land a top Goalie. I'm f'n sick of this situation lately. The last time the Wings GAA was this bad Brian Murray was on his way out the door. I can't stand seeing this team get lit up while every day I glance at 2-1 and 3-2 scores around the league. Everyone else seems to be playing playoff hockey right now except the Wings.

[Cern 0]

I would be alright with losing Hossa if it meant we can land a top Goalie. I'm f'n sick of this situation lately. The last time the Wings GAA was this bad Brian Murray was on his way out the door. I can't stand seeing this team get lit up while every day I glance at 2-1 and 3-2 scores around the league. Everyone else seems to be playing playoff hockey right now except the Wings.

This. If they put that cap space saved by not signing Hossa to good use somewhere on the back end, so be it

[Heroes of Hockeytown 694]

I am willing to exist in any universe wherein the Detroit Red Wings carry at least one of the following players on their roster:

Marian Hossa,

Johan Franzen

Any reality that features neither I will not find acceptable.

[Yzerfan1999 81]

I am happy to hear this. As much as I would LOVE to keep Hossa, giving him 6+ million would cripple us for the next couple of years. I like the way Franzen has worked his way up through the ranks, and I think he deserves a long term deal. He has looked spectacular at times this season, and at points, he has been the most dominant player on the ice (other then Dats).

It will be sad if a deal with Hossa can't be worked out, but thats the business. I trust Holland to do the right thing with these two.

[Guest Shoreline]

It will be sad if a deal with Hossa can't be worked out, but thats the business. I trust Holland to do the right thing with these two.

Wise words. In 11 years, Holland helped build a team to win 4 cups. 1 cup every 3 years on average. And guess what, I've seen threads, not surprisingly, after losses, calling for him to be fired. At some point it registers in my head why Holland is the GM and people here (myself included) are not, with the blow-the-house-up mentality for things that aren't even failing. This team is still in ******* SECOND place. Not barely making the playoffs, not out of the playoffs. I trust this GM more than any other in the league, and he's damn well earned it.