Next Seasons Needs/Team Future

[jimmyemeryhunter 2,747]

Obviously I hope they both turn out, it would be awesome for teemu to be a 30 goal scorer.

[krsmith17 7,191]

I watch 70-80% of Griffins games every season while never ever missing a Wings game, and I'm high on both players, but definitely a LOT higher on Jurco. I think Pulkkinen has the potential to be a pretty solid player in the NHL, I hope he can become somewhat of a power play specialist and use that amazing shot along the left faceoff dot, a la Ovechkin. But in the end, I see him more as a Jiri Hudler type, 2nd or 3rd line player. Jurco on the other hand, I think has the potential and all the tools to become something really special. I think he has the ability to become every bit of a player in the mold of a Marian Hossa. He has the size, he will gain the strength, he has the drive, he definitely has the hands and foot speed, he has a pretty decent shot that will get better, I think he is going to be a top line two-way player in this league for a long time.

[Shinzaki 72]

Jurco plays with an edge...just ask Alexei Emelin.

[Richdg 267]

How good of a skater was Hull? Homer? Pulk can skate better than either of them. he also shoots and scores, something we can use more of. Now that does not mean I wouldn't move him in the right deal, because I would. Anyone can be traded if the deal is right.

[rick zombo 3,739]

Jurco is going to be the man!!

[kipwinger 8,518]

I don't really think this needs to become a Jurco vs. Pulkinnen debate. They're both good players. Neither of them would be where they are if they weren't good players.

I'm more reluctant to lose Jurco because I know how long this team has been looking for a big, strong, fast, goal scorer. Now that we have what looks to be one (actually two with Mantha) I'd prefer to see what we've got and hang on to him while he develops.

But I understand why people would hate to lose Pulkinnen. You don't see a shot like that everyday. If we already had a handful of big bodied forwards (who could score, sorry Abby), I'd definitely prefer to keep Pulkinnen. But we don't, so Jurco is the greater organizational need right now.

[kipwinger 8,518]

Well if Ansar Khan is to be believed, the Wings aren't likely to get a top defenseman or a top forward. Instead, only a "secondary scorer" and a "lower cost" defenseman. So that's good. Because everybody knows the elite teams around the league are that way because of all the cut rate players they stock up on.

I've still got my fingers crossed, but it's getting harder and harder to keep my head buried in the sand.

[rick zombo 3,739]

Well if Ansar Khan is to be believed, the Wings aren't likely to get a top defenseman or a top forward. Instead, only a "secondary scorer" and a "lower cost" defenseman. So that's good. Because everybody knows the elite teams around the league are that way because of all the cut rate players they stock up on.

I've still got my fingers crossed, but it's getting harder and harder to keep my head buried in the sand.

Yeah, I read that Mlive Q&A as well.

Basically, he speculates that Holland won't overpay either in UFA dollars or in tradable assets. So no Niskanens, no Boyles, no Keslers, or Yandle type guys.

Honestly, I'd be happy with Tom Gilbert. He'smobile, has a great first pass, can eat up a ton of minutes, and has that right shot.

One of the "secondary scorers" he mentioned was Jussi Jokinen. I will be absolutely furious if we sign that guy.

[xtrememachine1 795]

Well if Ansar Khan is to be believed, the Wings aren't likely to get a top defenseman or a top forward. Instead, only a "secondary scorer" and a "lower cost" defenseman. So that's good. Because everybody knows the elite teams around the league are that way because of all the cut rate players they stock up on.

I've still got my fingers crossed, but it's getting harder and harder to keep my head buried in the sand.

I'm not saying the Wings should go out and sign or trade for some superstar, but a secondary scorer and a 5 or 6 dman with all that cap space would be really disappointing. We just keep getting lower and lower in the standings to the point where we're barely making the playoffs. You can't just sign a couple scrubs to cheap deals and expect that to improve. We don't have to sign players to make a run at a Cup right now, but let's at least make qualifying for the playoffs a little less exciting.

[e_prime 1,936]

Yeah, I read that Mlive Q&A as well.

Basically, he speculates that Holland won't overpay either in UFA dollars or in tradable assets. So no Niskanens, no Boyles, no Keslers, or Yandle type guys.

Honestly, I'd be happy with Tom Gilbert. He'smobile, has a great first pass, can eat up a ton of minutes, and has that right shot.

One of the "secondary scorers" he mentioned was Jussi Jokinen. I will be absolutely furious if we sign that guy.

...but in the same breath he mentions Moulson and Stastny. Those are names I could live with.

Ansar

Possibilities include Dan Boyle, Anton Stralman, Derek Morris, Tom Gilbert and Stephane Robidas.

As far as defense goes... Those are fine. Not what I really want, but Stralman has simplified his game and would be a solid piece. Morris and Gilbert are decent puck-movers. Can't complain too much. If we're not going for broke I don't see why we'd want to take on Boyle (he wants cash and term) and Robidas is just aged and broken down. (38 and 48 games played in the last two years)

[kipwinger 8,518]

I don't even know what to think. We've got all the money in the world. We've got so many young assets that we don't have spots for them all. We've got a trade market flush with high end players because ten other teams are looking to shake up their rosters too.

If this isn't the perfect time to make substantial moves then I don't know when is. I'm all for the idea of drafting and developing as a means to success, but surely Holland doesn't believe that you should exclusively do that and only augment your team with role players. But it's starting to look that way.

I'm just confused. I have no idea where his head's at or what he's thinking.

...but in the same breath he mentions Moulson and Stastny. Those are names I could live with.

As far as defense goes... Those are fine. Not what I really want, but Stralman has simplified his game and would be a solid piece. Morris and Gilbert are decent puck-movers. Can't complain too much. If we're not going for broke I don't see why we'd want to take on Boyle (he wants cash and term) and Robidas is just aged and broken down. (38 and 48 games played in the last two years)

I'm not sure how adding mediocre pieces to a mediocre team makes us better. I think he's hedging his bets that we'll be better with the growth of the young guys. But their growth is entirely offset by the decline in our vets. Does anybody really think that Dats, Z, Franzen will be healthy this year? And if they aren't, does anybody really believe that the kids will offset that? Even with the additions of Stralman or Boyle or Jokinen?

[Detroit # 1 Fan 2,204]

Zetterberg and Datsyuk aren't getting any younger. To me, it makes no sense to hold onto all our prospects. They won't all make the Wings, there just won't be the room for em all. Package a few of them up with a roster player or picks and add some quality hockey players. We're not that far away, but you have to be willing to give to get. Coupled with how much space we have, it just seems like the perfect time. I see a 3 year window we have with Z&D still at a high level and Babs still the coach. Take your shots now Kenny, please!

[LeftWinger 4,949]

I am still liking the idea of Derek Morris for a secondary defenseman... But if I know Holland and his choices, Quincey will be our secondary defenseman...I don't know who we could target for our secondary scoring, but I am sure Holland is thinking Alfie and Cleary...because we all know he considers Franzen our primary scorer... I Will Hate Ken Holland (more) if he re-signs any more of our UFAs!!! He already failed to upgrade our goaltending...f*** him and his Swedish love! I have nothing against Swedish players, especially if they make our team better, but WTF is with Ken Holland and his man-love on ALL Swedish players whether they are good or not? Ken, just because they are Swedish doesn't mean the are the right choice!!! GET THE f*** OVER IT! I am very close to wishing that Holland would take his "Team Model" elsewhere so we can get someone here that actually takes EVEYONE in to consideration...not Swedes first just because!!! Monster sucks and he is TOO injury prone and will miss even MORE games this season...

On the other end, he does mention Moulson and Stastny...but I think would cost a ton on July 1st...I like Stastny, but for his secondary scoring, he may break the back.

Edited June 23, 2014 by LeftWinger

[frankgrimes 1,836]

Yeah, I read that Mlive Q&A as well.

Basically, he speculates that Holland won't overpay either in UFA dollars or in tradable assets. So no Niskanens, no Boyles, no Keslers, or Yandle type guys.

Honestly, I'd be happy with Tom Gilbert. He'smobile, has a great first pass, can eat up a ton of minutes, and has that right shot.

One of the "secondary scorers" he mentioned was Jussi Jokinen. I will be absolutely furious if we sign that guy.

So Niskanen would cost one thing $ ---and is by far the best available defenseman, so if we pass on him who does fill the top 4 pairing problem ? Dekeyser, Kronwall and Ericsson is solid but after that there is a huge dropoff and injuries are going to happen no matter what. So I'm a bit surprised with these comments. I understand not wanting to give up assets but not wanting to pay a good defenseman ? That's just stupid.

[number9 3,297]

"Wait for it.... Waittttt forrrr itttttt" -KH

[kipwinger 8,518]

I honestly think that in Holland's mind Datsyuk and Zetterberg are still 29 or 30 years old. I think that when he envisions his roster he thinks to himself "I've got two of the best two way players on earth to build around. I've just got to add around the edges".

Sadly, they aren't that. Not anymore. Without significant help they won't get it done anymore. And should we wake up one day to find that Nyquist and Tatar are the next Filppula and Hudler (rather than the next Eurotwins) we're in real trouble.

It's not everyday that players as good as Kesler become available during the primes of their careers. To avoid pursuing a guy like that because he'd cost too many prospects or mid-tier roster players is nuts.

"Wait for it.... Waittttt forrrr itttttt" -KH

Haha, story of the last 5 years. At what point does Holland finally realize that the price for talented players isn't going to come down?

[e_prime 1,936]

I don't even know what to think. We've got all the money in the world. We've got so many young assets that we don't have spots for them all. We've got a trade market flush with high end players because ten other teams are looking to shake up their rosters too.

If this isn't the perfect time to make substantial moves then I don't know when is. I'm all for the idea of drafting and developing as a means to success, but surely Holland doesn't believe that you should exclusively do that and only augment your team with role players. But it's starting to look that way.

I'm just confused. I have no idea where his head's at or what he's thinking.

I'm not sure how adding mediocre pieces to a mediocre team makes us better. I think he's hedging his bets that we'll be better with the growth of the young guys. But their growth is entirely offset by the decline in our vets. Does anybody really think that Dats, Z, Franzen will be healthy this year? And if they aren't, does anybody really believe that the kids will offset that? Even with the additions of Stralman or Boyle or Jokinen?

I'm starting to doubt, as well. I'm still going to keep my fingers crossed and say, speculation is just that and we'll see what KH does when the opportunity is upon him.

That being said, I think we're looking at a real turning point for this franchise.

If Ken Holland stands pat or just adds minor pieces it's not going to be enough to make us a true contender.

We can continue to make the playoffs, but we won't be any closer to the Cup. I truly believe that.

Will Babcock see this and move on to another team?

Will Mr. I see finally see Ken Holland as a proven winner, but not capable of leading this franchise to the future?

This might be the last season of Holland being able to "hedge his bets" and play it safe.

As far as players discussed,I won't call them mediocre.

I do believe that Stralman, Morris, or Gilbert would be better than Kindl or Quincey on defense.

Enough to elevate the defense to the level we need? No, probably not.

Moulson would be a legit piece for our top six.

Stastny is young and coveted Center. Neither of them are mediocre.

I'd take either of them over Thornton or Spezza. Not only are they younger, they'll "cost" less.

[LeftWinger 4,949]

I agree with a lot of you! We have a s*** ton of prospects and they are a high level as well! We have 4-5 kids that are guaranteed rosters spots this season, Sheahan, Tatar, Jurco, Nyquist and Dekeyser...hell along with Glendening. With Dats, Z and Franzine all signed for a while, and Weiss, there isn't much room for the rest of our young kids. Ferraro, Callahan, Pulks, Mantha....the list goes on of very good to great young prospects that can make the club starting this season and beyond if giving a chance...problem is, there is no room. If we look at 6 of our top forwards on the farm.

Mantha

Pulkkinen

Athanasiou

Janmark

Ferraro

Callahan

All very capable of making the NHL within the next 2-3 years...no room. So why not make a deal for a piece that you absolutely need? Obviously Ferraro and Callahan aren't going to get us Kesler, but maybe a package including Pulk or Janmark just might? I hear good things about Athanasiou as well, but if it came down to keeping only ONE of those 6 prospects and losing the others in trade packages Mantha is the only one I keep. If Pulks + can get me Kesler, I got to do it... We also have that 1st round pick this year that is not very useful to us, it is far more useful via trade...

[Richdg 267]

Not going to defend/attack Holland here, but what do you expect a writer to say? All he was giving is HIS opinion. Not Hollands. Ken is not going to go out and have a press conference and tell the world: I am going to trade from players x, y, and z. that only gives everyone else a chance to act and steal his targets/drive up the price, and make the RW's pay.

Holland, Babcock, and indirectly Zetterberg and Datsyuk have all said that we need more top end talent. KH himself mentioned a top 6 forward and a top 4 RHed Dman. Now if we get to Sep 1 and those have not been picked up, then by all means time to flame Holland and I will lead the way. But we are not even to July 1 yet. Lets give things another 60 days, then we can jump off of bridges etc......

[LeftWinger 4,949]

If I can score Kesler with only losing Helm our 1st and a couple of prospects (Pulks, Janmark for example) I am all in. You cannot pass on a prime Kesler....you just cant.

[kipwinger 8,518]

As far as players discussed,I won't call them mediocre.

I do believe that Stralman, Morris, or Gilbert would be better than Kindl or Quincey on defense.

Enough to elevate the defense to the level we need? No, probably not.

Moulson would be a legit piece for our top six.

Stastny is young and coveted Center. Neither of them are mediocre.

I'd take either of them over Thornton or Spezza. Not only are they younger, they'll "cost" less.

Mediocre is just better than bad. Kindl is bad, and Quincey's better but not great. If those guys weren't totally average their teams would likely want to keep them, they certainly don't want to leave their respective teams. Neither Stralman or Gilbert have done anything to show me they're better than an Ian White. Morris is a decent stay at home guy, but we don't need that.

I'd take Moulson I guess. Certainly over Stastny, Thornton, or Spezza. We don't need another center. We've got like 45 centers or converted centers. None of those guys have ever spent significant time on the wing like Kesler or O'Reilly have (both had their best offensive seasons on the wing). Signing another center who can't play the wing forces us to either move someone like Weiss to the wing (who hasn't played their either), or else pushes Weiss and Sheahan down the depth chart and still leaves us with a gaping hole on the top six wings. Moulson could fill that, and he'd be better than nothing, but he doesn't make us harder to play against given that he's kinda slow and not overly tough.

Edited June 23, 2014 by kipwinger

[DannyD 79]

I think we could see Z, D, Sheahan, Goose, Jurco, Tatar, Franzen and Alfie (if he comes back) all score 20-25 goals with Z up around 30.

Part of me wonders if they would pull the trigger on a top line guy because they expect Mantha to fill that void next year, or later this year if at all possible. Now if we went after O'Reilly I would be all over that because he could play on Pavel's wing or lineup at C. He would also greatly improve the defense.

Z-D-O'Reilly

Goose-Weiss-Franzen

Alfie-Sheahan-Jurco

Abby-Glendening-Callahan

So next year (15'-16') we could see something like this.

Z-D-Mantha

Goose-O'Reilly-Jurco

Pulks-Sheahan-Franzen

Abby-Glendening-Callahan

Kronner - Dekeyser

Big E - Smith

Bäckman - Oullet

Howard

Mrazek

To me, that is a team that could compete for a cup.

Note: Traded Tatar, helm and Marchenko for O'Reilly. I'm not really sure what O'Reilly could bring but I would be perfectly fine giving up those 3 guys and a high pick if need be. I'm also giving away Weiss for a draft pick at the trade deadline because he doesn't fit.

Honestly in two years I could see us trading Big E in some package, maybe to move up in the draft or something. I think the FO is really high on Sproul and I can't see them trading one of the young guns or Kronner to get him in the lineup. Big E would be expendable and if we were to ever trade him then would be the time to do it.

In 2 years we could have a really good young D. I really don't see a huge need for a top 4 D when we have several guys in the minors who could be a top 4 guy.

Kronner-Dekeyser

Oullet-Smith

Bäckman-Sproul.

[kipwinger 8,518]

Honestly in two years I could see us trading Big E in some package, maybe to move up in the draft or something.

Could you? Because I haven't seen Ken Holland trade a roster player for something meaningful in what seems like 25,000 years. And it's been even longer since he traded anything to move up in the draft (which I actually don't blame him for considering how well we draft in later rounds).

[DannyD 79]

Could you? Because I haven't seen Ken Holland trade a roster player for something meaningful in what seems like 25,000 years. And it's been even longer since he traded anything to move up in the draft (which I actually don't blame him for considering how well we draft in later rounds).

If i meant them getting Sproul in the lineup who is much cheaper, letting them resign young talent like Jurco, Goose, etc, and can provide offense on the 3rd pairing and the PP? Yes.

[kipwinger 8,518]

If i meant them getting Sproul in the lineup who is much cheaper, letting them resign young talent like Jurco, Goose, etc, and can provide offense on the 3rd pairing and the PP? Yes.

I mean, I don't disagree with your logic. I just have a hard time imagining KH moving ANY roster player. The combination of Ericsson being "home grown" and Holland being so loyal that he'd rather watch his team tank than move a guy who has value, makes me believe he'll never...EVER...trade a homegrown top pairing d-man.