Do we really have that much cap space for next year?
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 3:01 PM EST
Email
PrintEditor's Note: Do the Toronto Maple Leafs really have that much cap space available this summer? Sure doesn't look that way unless Burke can move some unwieldy contracts (yeah, right), the cap goes up (good luck), or he moves some assets at their peak value (hmmmm...) Here's a breakdown by The '67 Sound
A lot of comments seem to assume that we have boatloads of cap space next year with all the expiring contracts. And indeed, capgeek.com lists almost $22 million in cap space next year. But how much can we reasonably expect to be available?
The first thing is to remember that while there is only $37 million committed next year, that only covers 11 players (5 F and 6 D). That means our $22 million has to pay for 12 players given a standard 23 man roster. We still would need 8 more forwards, a defenceman and 2 goalies.
Then consider our RFAs. I would expect (hope) Burke would try to re-sign Kulemin, Hanson, Mitchell and White. I'm going to be very optimistic here and assume we sign Kulemin for $1.5 million, and Hanson and Mitchell for $2 million combined. That's barely a raise compared to the $3 million these three played for this year. White, given his outstanding performance this year, I'll slot at $2.5 million. We've spent $6 out of $22 million and still need four forwards and two goalies for $16 million.
Assume we can get Gustavsson for $2.5 million (same as this year) and a backup for another million. That leaves $12.5 million for four forwards.
I'm going to assume Bozak and Stalberg are with the club next year, and hope that Poni resigns. The kids run $4.6 million, and I have to think Poni gets at least $3.5 million as a UFA. We're left with a little over $4 million to fill out the last forward slot. Enough to get yet another "Top 6" forward but clearly not enough for the additional game-breaker we need. And all this was done on what I consider to be very optimistic assumptions about how cheaply we can sign our UFAs and RFAs. More realistically, we'll probably have only $2-3 million.
Making matters worse, it seems that capgeek doesn't count bonus amounts against the cap, presumably because you can go 7.5% over the cap for bonus money. However, it would seem insane to do so when you have to give back the cap space in subsequent years, and I don't think anyone expects the Leafs to contend next year. Does anyone know if bonus amounts due to Bozak and Schenn are easily obtainable? If these two eating are almost $7 million in cap space (including all bonuses) we basically have no cap space as I read it.
What's worse is that things don't get that much better in 2011. The only UFA will be Kabby and there's no way we sign him, or someone as good as him, for $4.25 million. Plus, Schenn and Gunnarsson are RFAs. Basically if we want to sign a #1 centre for 2011 we need the cap to go up, big time.
What's the upshot of all this? First of all, we can't really afford Giggy, Lupul, Horton, Sharp or any of the other names floated around unless the other team takes a non-expiring contract back--which is the opposite of what these teams are purportedly trying to accomplish. Second, we should be doing everything possible to sucker someone into taking one of our contracts at the deadline. That means give Blake tons of PP time, keep him on the second line with Grabs and Hagman, and FREE FINGER! It's unlikely to work but it's our best shot.
Bottom line: we're not screwed like Chicago but all those D making $3-5 million are eating a huge hole in our cap and we can't simply assume we'll have the cap space to upgrade the forwards for at least two years. Kadri, Stalberg and Bozak had better be good...
PensionPlanPuppets.com is a fan community that allows members to post their own thoughts and opinions on the Toronto Maple Leafs and hockey in general. These views and thoughts may not be shared by the editor of PensionPlanPuppets.com.
265 comments
|
5 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
MARELEU!!!
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 10, 2009 2:19 PM EST reply actions
Not unless we can unload Blake or Finger (or comparable salary) without taking back any salary in return, and don’t re-sign Poni.
What can I say, I’m a Leafs fan, it’s in my genes to worry (especially when things are going relatively well).
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, im hoping finger gets shipped to an injury ridden desperate playoff team
Blake wont be going anywhere sadly
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 10, 2009 2:40 PM EST up reply actions
Blake and Stempniak for Giggy and a 3rd?
not that I would necessarily want that, but I thing Giguere could do well here, and Jonas can learn from him next year and take the starting job the year after.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 2:46 PM EST up reply actions
I can’t imagine Anaheim would do that (their cap situation isn’t bad) and since Stempniak’s a UFA, that adds $2M to our cap next year when I don’t see us having the space.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
grabs instead of stemp and ask for a 2nd?
that should help clear out our center
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
Bozak
is $4.6M with bonuses. Bonus money can be rolled to the following years cap, and is only in effect if the bonuses are triggered…
I have nothing interesting to say.
by blurr1974 on Dec 10, 2009 2:46 PM EST reply actions
That’s why we need to know what triggers them. To me, rolling bonuses to future years is insane unless you’re competing for a Cup. Talk about mortgaging the future.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
we don't
Burke does. My assumption would be if they’re triggered, it’s probably a good thing for the team…
I have nothing interesting to say.
by blurr1974 on Dec 10, 2009 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
how are we at the stage
where we’re having to find ways to shoehorn in like $5M in bonus money to AHL players like Hanson and Bozak?
I get that they’re prospects and we’re all very hopeful, but seriously. Why can’t we just offer each of them $1M a year next year? Are they not regular RFAs who have to earn their keeps?
I dont understand how Bozak is going to earn $4.6M playing for the Marlies this year.
He’s not—I think his base is $850,000 and that may even be a 2-way deal. But I think pretty much everyone assumes he’s with the big club next year, and I have no idea how easily obtainable those bonuses are. Does he have to challenge for the Art Ross or just play 50 games? Who knows.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
so my point would be
if he has yet to crack the lineup, why is $1M a year an insult? I mean, he’s Leaf property. unless there’s some rule I’m unaware of, he’s a regular RFA. I don’t see why each would sing for about a million each, for 1 or 2 years.
If they’re the bee’s knees, then fine, they will get their money down the line.
But given my general pessimism about the Leafs cap space, I get worried when I read stuff like “oh man we have to allow for the $7 million for Bozak Hanson and Kadri next year too”
he wasn’t our property, he was a free agent, and any team could have signed him.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:06 PM EST up reply actions
I agree
The RFA guys are one last chance to lock down kids for contracts that they can outperform before they become UFAs and you have to pay them for past results.
This is PPP's work account until further notice. Damn Internet.
by David Danforth on Dec 10, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions
He’s not earning that.
Pretty sure his bonuses are contingent on NHL numbers… also the bonuses are kind of irrelevant because what the contract really does is make him our RFA next year.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
sorry, year after
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
he's not
the $4.6 includes a lot of bonuses that he won’t hit. There’s probably a bonus for winning the Calder in there, etc.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
Thing is, I really doubt we’ll have both White and Kaberle on our D next year. Gustavsson will be given one of their spots. That’s an extra $2.5 to $4.25 mill, depending on who we keep around.
I’m pretty sure we’ll have room to spend about $6 mill in Free Agency.
I also have a sneaking suspicion that Poni may be allowed to leave….
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:01 PM EST reply actions
well
not quite $2.5 mill, we need to consider how much um.. not Gustavsson… Gunnarsson (what is with my brain today) will be paid.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:03 PM EST up reply actions
good job joe bowen!
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 10, 2009 3:03 PM EST up reply actions
I would let Poni go if it allowed us to sign Sharp or Marleau.
Moustache Fever, not to be confused with swine flu.
I wouldn’t let Poni go. I’d possibly trade him for assets but even then he doesn’t clear much cap space and who do you use it on?
Poni’s younger than Marleau and likely going to be much cheaper.
Sharp’s never been the top dog.
This is PPP's work account until further notice. Damn Internet.
by David Danforth on Dec 10, 2009 3:06 PM EST up reply actions
We’d have to ditch more than Poni to get Marleau, and presumably Chicago would want something for Sharp. He’s not that much better than Poni.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 3:07 PM EST up reply actions
yeah I really don’t think making a move like letting Poni go and getting Sharp makes any sense.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
Here's a question...
everyone is assuming the cap will go down… what happens if the cap goes down, and even with trades etc. the teams just can’t make it under the cap? Like say it goes down to $48 mill, that’s what, $5 mill less… would teams on an internal budget be forced to take on contracts from teams over the cap? Or would each individual GM have to stash a player in the minors or get them to play in the KHL just to get under the cap?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:14 PM EST reply actions
The cap is projected to only go down slightly next year… about a million or so.
Also, I would have to assume that more will be taken from the players in escrow, and they may not get it back to maintain the 54-46(I think) revenue split.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
I would assume the escrow thing, but wouldn’t each team have to make sure they were still below the cap anyways?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:21 PM EST up reply actions
I have my suspicions about that… although if I talk about them the NHL BOG’s will probably send their dads over to kick my dad’s ass.
They average like 6’5"
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
New meme!
I missed the original, so went looking for it. What a mind-numbing exchange that was.
Leaf, the universe and everything.
Flyeresque even
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:18 PM EST up reply actions
THANK YOU
for writing this. I’ve pointed this out on numerous threads already (most recently the “can we keep White and Kaberle” discussion yesterday) so thanks for doing the actual hard work.
Yes, we have lots of cap space, but it will get eaten up incredibly fast. Just to hold on to the salvageable parts and jettisoning the dead wood will cost a god chunk of it.
Personally, I’m of the view taht this team needs one $5million scorer a lot more than it needs two $2.5M forwards, so I’m hoping they opt for quality over quantity. They have enough horses on D that the Top 4 can eat up a lot of minutes. I’m willing to cheap out on the 5 and 6 an 7 guys as long as they are only asked to play 15 minutes a night.
The real problem I see is that there are no forwards coming up as UFAs who fit their need for the dominant No. 1 centre. Unless he materializes, i say sit it out. Sign a bunch of veterans to short term deals, pad their stats playing with Kessel, and unload them at the deadline in 2011 so we have picks AND the cash to get a UFA from the class of 2011.
I’m a big fan of quality over quantity. Most Cup winners in the cap era actually have a bunch of nobodies on the 4th line and 3rd pair (or at least they would be nobodies without their rings).
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
pevans, i think that you hit upon the only sensible thing to do
frankly, the leaf fanswillstill fill the building, even with a bad team playing (again) in 2010. sit back adn prepare for 2011
bt
I think this is a discussion to be had some time between January 1 (when contracts that substantially increase a player’s compensation can be negotiated) and the day after the trade deadline.
With 2/3 of the roster set to be UFA/RFA there are way too many variables in play to guesstimate how much cap space the Leafs might have.
Bitter Leaf Fan: because sometimes there's no option but to be bitter...
Also, depending on which hi profile UFA’s re-up with their teams via extensions, Burke will adjust his strategy on what changes are best for the team.
If Marleau or whomever is unsigned come July 1st, than that makes a pretty big difference on how the management structures the Leafs lineup.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 3:29 PM EST up reply actions
I agree it’s early but as I see it no matter what happens, moving Blake/Finger is almost a prerequisite to making any real improvement to the team, and to do that they need to put up numbers starting NOW.
I know, I know, they’re impossible to deal no matter what. Let me dream.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions
they are by no means impossible to deal.. you have to think a club on the bubble with need for a defenseman would be willing to take on finger even if it would put them up against the ceiling for next year (and then do something about it in the off season).. there has been word that blake has been getting some attention as well (i think it was mackenzie on tsn who said he might not be as unmoveable as people assume)
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
Burke will trade a couple guys at the deadline, poni, stajan and stemp come to mind right away and Watter and Dregar were saying the think white will only double his salary and get around 1.7mil per but get term.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
If I could get Ian White for the rest of his 20s and for a cap hit of < $2M, I’d do it in a cocaine heartbeat.
Resident Capologist
That wasn’t nice… you give me a sad…
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 3:36 PM EST up reply actions
but it was witty
sometimes it’s an ugly tradeoff.
and the Mustache of Truculence (formerly Canada4Mizzou)
I think he'll get more
than $2m.
Deserving of $2.5m – $3m I’d think next year (extrapolating his continued performance), hopefully for 3 or more years.
Once I start adding up these numbers it makes me sad.
Assuming we keep White, Kaberle, and Finger (and dont resign/trade xlb and MVR) and use Gunnarsson as our 7 d-man, our Defense will have a cap hit of approx $20.06M for 7 players (with White making $2.5m)
Still, other than finger’s massive cap hit, there’s not much I hate about that defensive core.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 3:43 PM EST up reply actions
That
also assumes 0 performance bonuses for Schenn or Gunnarsson.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 3:44 PM EST up reply actions
i hope we don’t move poni.. we lived through his shit years and now he’s actually playing well.. we won’t be able to find another player with his size and shot at all let alone at the 3.5 – 4 mill hit we can most likely keep him for
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 3:39 PM EST up reply actions
no, we won’t be able to find another player like him at a good salary, but we sure as heck could develop another player like him and pay him even less (Kulemin)
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions
kulemin doesn’t have the size or upside poni has… poni is a 60 point power forward with a great shot.. kulemin is a speedy grinder with grit
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
Kulemin is, what, 22? 2nd season in the NHL. Go back and look at what Poni was doing in his 2nd season.
They are remarkably similar.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
numbers wise maybe.. i’d say kulemin is playing a lot harder than poni did back then… poni’s shown more heart and drive than he showed before which is why his numbers have really come around, poni is a horse (no pun intended) compared to kulemin.. i’m not saying that to knock kulemin he’s one of my favorite new leafs i just see him as a depth guy whereas poni makes an excellent power forward on a second line
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions
I have very high hopes for Kulemin. As far as size goes, they’re both 220 lbs, Poni is a bit taller. Kulemin has better wheels and is a bit more responsible and a better forechecker. Poni’s better in front of the net, but he’s also not in his second NHL season. I think Kulemin in a few years replaces Poni and then some.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions
but we need somebody to play before kulemin gets to that point and there aren’t any better options out there chu know?
haha also sesquipedalianism (yes i had to look it up). great word its pretty much the opposite in terms of word-definition relationship to onomatopoeia
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:17 PM EST up reply actions
why do we need someone to play? Move Kulemin up next year, we still have Kessel-Blake-Hagman as top 6 wingers, give Hanson his spot on the 3rd line. We don’t need to plug holes, we need to play youth.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:21 PM EST up reply actions
i agree
that we need to focus on playing youth but at the same time youth have to earn the ice time.. i’d agree with you if poni was somehow blocking kulemin from more ice time but he really hasn’t shown he needs more ice time.. he’s been exceptional in his grind role but hasn’t shown the ability to finish consistently (he does generate chances mind you) we’d be creating a hole by letting him walk. a whole that we already have filled with a quality player we developed ourselves (RARE!)
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:26 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, it’s rare, but we have ample youth that could possibly fill that spot. Hanson, Stalberg, Kulemin…. any one of them could step up and become a top 6 winger. We don’t NEED Poni.
We just want him because we love him.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:27 PM EST up reply actions
I’m one of few whose had faith in Ponikarovsky from the start, and I still think his best value to the team this year is as trade bait.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:29 PM EST up reply actions
haha well i’m in a strange place here.. i was the first to throw poni under the bus until this year..
he’s putting up points and contributing on a nightly basis and providing physicality on the top 6 that we don’t have from anyone else i’d say that’s value.. without poni we’re hab sized up front gotta have some kind of net presence if you’re going to be effective on offense. how many goals have been scored this year with his big ass parked in the slot.. he provides something that of the 3 prospects mentioned by karina only hanson could provide (and even he hasn’t shown that he could step up, he might but he might also need another year of development after this one to become productive)
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:34 PM EST up reply actions
Bottom line with Poni is he’s a “put you over the top” guy, not a “build around him” guy. By the time the team’s in the right place for that to be more valuable than what he gets in a trade, he’s on his downslope. Cash him in.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:36 PM EST up reply actions
Kulemin is quite capable of providing it. He’s working his ass of this year, he should get a chance to prove he can do more later.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:37 PM EST up reply actions
fair enough.. but i’d like to see him show it before we ship off the guy above him… let kulemin play some real minutes this year and if he’s productive then we’ve got our guy, but if not its not the right move..
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:39 PM EST up reply actions
i kind of touched on it below but i think you need to see those players force their way up and demand the ice time as opposed to throwing them at the wall and seeing what sticks.. what happens if we let poni go and none of those guys step up.. you’re either dragging a prospect behind the team bus and ruining his confidence (pretty sure the media would eat kule alive if he plays 2nd line minutes and scores 10 goals in a season) or you’re gonna be playing a turd who gets brought in to fill that hole less effectively than poni would
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:37 PM EST up reply actions
if none of those guys sticks, you’ve found out what you have and in the summer go out and get it. Poni’s a great contributer on a winning team, but having him leave isn’t going to make or break us. Spending $4 mill on a player whose role could be filled by the youth below him is not wise use of the cap.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:40 PM EST up reply actions
but as a top 6 forward you need that role to be filled by either an equally productive player or a more productive player and none of those kids have shown they can put up 60 points OR play top line minutes night in night out.. 3.5-4 isn’t a huge hit for a good power forward in your top 6
if none of those guys sticks you’ve wasted a year and you’re back to trying to get poni back to play his old spot in the summer
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:43 PM EST up reply actions
Kulemin played top 6 minutes night in, night out last year.
Poni hadn’t proven anything when he became Sundin’s winger.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:44 PM EST up reply actions
i’m not sure kule was top 6 all year but assuming he did, he put up 31 pts and was minus 8 .. poni has never been a minus in his career and is putting up WAY more points than that..
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:48 PM EST up reply actions
Apples to oranges. When Poni was at Kulemin’s development stage, he was on a good team.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:49 PM EST up reply actions
Rookie. When Poni was a rookie, he put up 28 points.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:50 PM EST up reply actions
prior to last year
Poni’s highest point total was 45. He only hit 61 points last year. You’re telling me that given the opportunity, we can’t find another player to do that?
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:52 PM EST up reply actions
no but i’m saying we’d be hard pressed to find somebody to do it better next year
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:55 PM EST up reply actions
we don’t need someone to do it better… if we can get the same production out of someone younger and cheaper, it’s a smart move.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:56 PM EST up reply actions
well poni didn’t play for a good team last year and was a plus 6.. before you talk about the stage of career they’re both at i’ll remind you the point i’m making isnt poni is better than kulemin as a player its that he’s a better option for our top 6 right now
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:52 PM EST up reply actions
“Right now only, next year be damned” is exactly how we got into the mess that has thus far taken the entire post-lockout era to get part way through cleaning up.
I like what Poni brings to the table, and if the Leafs were a year or two further along, I’d love to extend him, but his career trajectory and the Leafs cycle just don’t sync up.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:55 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
this sums this entire discussion up in my mind
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:57 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
point taken.. i guess i’m guilty of looking to ice the best team possible at the moment (not necessarily what we want) i’d still say that poni is a valuable piece to keep though he’s only 28 so i’d disagree that he’s on the downslope per se although he might not improve too much going forward
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:59 PM EST up reply actions
I also think it’s a bit rose-coloured to call Poni a “power forward.”
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:48 PM EST up reply actions
really? he’s big, hard to knock of the puck and plays the front of the net.. what would you call him?
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:54 PM EST up reply actions
he doesnt use his size to drive to the net, he doesnt bully his way through traffic and he has no mean streak
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 10, 2009 5:58 PM EST up reply actions
A good but not great goal scorer. I don’t buy into the notion that every player has an appropriate EA Sports category.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:58 PM EST up reply actions
not necessarily an EA sports category.. I would define a power forward as any player who uses size and strength to keep the puck and create offense as opposed to speed, skill or what-have-you and he fits that description in my eyes because of his size and the role he plays..
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 6:07 PM EST up reply actions
He is A stempniak mirror – who hits people to make them aware he is on the ice
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 5:27 PM EST up reply actions
Kulemin isn't 22
I keep having to tell people this… it’s kinda weird how people keep thinking he’s so young.
He’s 23.5 years old and turns 24 in July. He’s actually older than Malkin.
He was a late late draft pick… going two years after he was eligible – i.e. in 2004 when Malkin did.
He’s young, but he’s not as young as people seem to think he is. He played 2 full years at the top level in the RSL (now the KHL) and even led that league in goal scoring 4 years ago…
Suffice it to say, his goal production is similar to what Ponikarovsky was doing at the same age. Poni had to sit out the lockout year when he was 24. When he came back as a 25 year old he scored 21 goals in the NHL.
If Kulemin scores 20+ goals next season, then he’s on pace. This year though he’s only on pace to score 15 goals again though. He needs ice time on a top line to start producing like more of an offensive player.
I think his defensive game is well rounded enough that if he recieved top line minutes he could turn into a very dominant two way forward. Frankly having top two lines that include Ponikarovsky, Hagman, Kulemin, and Blake would adequately compensate for the defensive miscues of Grabovski and Kessel… the problem is that we aren’t playing Kessel at centre… which I think is the change that needs to be made for all of this to work well.
"Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm."
- Sir Winston Churchill
I'm pretty sure he's talking about the Leafs.
by Steve Burtch on Dec 20, 2009 1:25 AM EST up reply actions
Wow, just had an Antropov flashback.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions
I think I’d miss Poni the most out of him, Antro and Stajan. And I definitely will miss Stajan, who I assume is gone by next year. I guess my projection that we keep Poni is at least part wishful thinking.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 3:49 PM EST up reply actions
I want to keep him too… I just see a logical argument for trading him at the deadline.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:51 PM EST up reply actions
poni's appeal
is in part because he was such a diamond in the rough. We held on to Antro because he was a 1st and we have such expectations.
Having one of your rare late-round gems make good only to leave town when they hti their stride is sad.
In a related story, I miss Danny Markov.
Poni was a 2nd round pick
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:53 PM EST up reply actions
I am going to assume Daoust is correct.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
well hot dang
yes he is
I have no idea where the 2nd round idea came from, then.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
I’ve been wrong all day today. You all should just ignore what I say.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions
I miss Danny too :(
This is PPP's work account until further notice. Damn Internet.
by David Danforth on Dec 10, 2009 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
haha
i like Poni a lot. If you’d told me in 2002 that the gangly slow kid i was watching would be a dependable, steady big body with decent hands, i wouldn’t have believed it. But he’s clearly in his prime now.
On the open market, he will get the cash. I just hope he wants to stay. I dont think it’s a viable strategy to pay him more than $3M a season.
I like Kulemin a lot. I think he could be “the next Poni” whatever that means. With all these draxy long-term deals for stars, I’m wondering when someone will offer a long-term deal with reasonable cash to one of their beloved role players. I like the thought of giving Kulemin a 10-year deal for $20M, even though it’s ridiculous and terrifying at the same time.
i dont think poni is going to get 3.5-4, in fact Ill guarantee that Burke does NOT give him that kind of money
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 10, 2009 4:44 PM EST up reply actions
JFJ would give him 7 and a NMC – and you can kill one person a month with no legal repercussions
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
someone will.
If Poni wants to stay in TO, I see him getting $3 mill max.
If he wants the pay day, he’ll follow Antropov out the door.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
what did we pay grabbo? if it is more than we are willing to pay Poni – someone’s got some ’splainin to do
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:48 PM EST up reply actions
3 years, 8.7 sounds right….
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
However, you’re assuming Burke would wants to bring back Mitchell, Kulemin, Ponikarovsky, and White. Besides White, you can make strong arguments against those players being resigned. Also, there’s probably a better chance of White getting more money once free agency starts than if he simply re-signs.
This summer will be Burke’s best chance to mold the team to his liking via free agency. I could see most of our UFAs leaving town.
The truth is we won’t really have a good grasp on the cap situation until March (after the trade deadline). By then, we should know who the team is targeting in the NCAA ranks, as well as any possible players moved at the deadline.
White is an RFA. If anyone wants to give him a big pay day, we let him walk and take the picks.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 3:56 PM EST up reply actions
c'monnnnnnn 2 first and a 2nd!
I wish
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
either way, the lack of top-end talent on this team is worrisome. Burke is very much a top-6/bottom-6 type of guy. Mirtle had an interesting article a few months back about how the Leafs spend such a large portion of their cap space on 2nd and 3rd line players. I don’t see that trend continuing. Is the UFA class good? Not really. But when you already have Blake and Hagman tied up with deals through next season, I find it hard to believe Burke would play it safe and re-sign Poni (will be 30 next season; highest point total = 61) instead of taking a chance in the summer via a trade or free agency.
depends on who is available, Poni might be the only viable option for next year
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:04 PM EST up reply actions
The nicest thing Blake could do for the Leafs
would be to retire and take his cap hit with him
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:05 PM EST up reply actions
The Leafs "2nd and 3rd line" players
thing is a bit misleading. If you compare the Leafs “2nd and 3rd liners” with those elsewhere in the NHL, they outperform the vast majority… which is WHY the Leafs have a top 10 offense in the NHL.
The fact is, they spend roughly the same amount on their forwards as many other teams, and they get production and offense out of them. The Leafs issues are goaltending, goaltending, and more goaltending. If they had a reliable net minder they would be a winning team. Their PK would be average, they would be winning games, and nobody would be whining about a lack of offensive talent on the club.
I’m getting sick of all the crap about 1st line players… or a lack of them… in Toronto. It’s all myopic and a tad ridiculous.
"Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm."
- Sir Winston Churchill
I'm pretty sure he's talking about the Leafs.
by Steve Burtch on Dec 20, 2009 1:30 AM EST up reply actions
Mitchell’s dirt cheap, which is all I want out of a 3rd/4th liner at this point. I can’t see getting better value for dollar than Kulemin since he’s an RFA. Poni and White—I just want them. Makes me feel I’m not just rooting for laundry to have some roster stability.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 4:04 PM EST up reply actions
Mitchell is a great, cheap replacement for Primeau, Wallin, and Mayers for next year. All three of whom should be gone.
They call me Splodeybones.
How does he replace 3 lineup spots? cloning?
Cause if we are cloning, let’s skip the 3rd/4th liners…
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
Look at the healthy scratches and guys on IR. We have an excess of forwards.
They call me Splodeybones.
it warms my heart when you refer to the Leafs as ‘we’
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:09 PM EST up reply actions
I just got my Leafs knit cap in the mail yesterday, and in two weeks should have the greatest hooded sweatshirt ever known to man. Once I get it, I’ll send pictures.
They call me Splodeybones.
Chemmy wore you down?
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
i’d actually like to keep stempniak for a 3rd line role, if we could get him for like $1.5M. he looks good out there with kulemin.
Yesterday is dead, but not my memory.
if primeau plays like this all year id keep him, hes playing better than mitchell did
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E"
by Matt_Roberts on Dec 10, 2009 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
voice of reason up here – only thing that Mitchell has on Primeau is the age thing.
Short term, I go with Farry on this one
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
I would be quite upset if Primeau walks… he’s a low maintenance, low-cost prototypical 3rd/4th liner who is effective on the PK.
Why do we do this to ourselves?
Assuming he keeps his current level of play
I wouldn’t mind resigning 1-2 years at same or lower pay.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
Bingo
Good to have a veteran presence as well, especially in the F/O circle and on a grinding 3rd/4th line.
(Blake doesn’t count – I think Kessel is teaching him a few things)
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:48 PM EST up reply actions
GAH! i missed this but i would say you’d have a hard time making an argue for letting kulemin leave (i would also argue for poni but my case is far from bulletproof)
Supporter of Poni as a Leaf for the 10/11 season
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 6:25 PM EST up reply actions
If Primeau wants to take league minimum
and stay for another year, i’d be okay with that.
I could really do without Mitchell entirely. But he has very little trade value and an RFA status.
Oy
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
reply fail...
this happens to me too much
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
Are we allowed to leave Blake on Phoenix’s doorstep with a big garbage bag full of money?
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions
fail again – should be an ‘in’ in there somewhere
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
a big garbage bag
Now that’s a nickname for Toskala I haven’t heard before.
They call me Splodeybones.
wouldn’t that be a little garbage bag?
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:14 PM EST up reply actions
I could so see Toskala using a manpurse
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:16 PM EST up reply actions
Toskala does have a manpurse. That’s why there’s all the jokes about it =D
(I hope I wasn’t missing some sarcastic or ironic thingy about your post and the topic in general)
I generally like to avoid looking at pictures of Toskala – except for the one where Cookie Monster has a leg lock on him.
Too lazy to search the site for it… but it’s good stuff.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions
Um, Toskala makes a better Pimp than a goalie
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:36 PM EST up reply actions
He is one feathered hat and bejeweled sceptre away from full pimpage
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions
I think a big garbage bag full of money would probably cut down angles better than Toskala. He’s more of a briefcase full of money.
by Robot Godzilla on Dec 10, 2009 4:25 PM EST up reply actions
If anyone wants to really play armchair GM
Capgeek has an amazing salary cap calculator that you can use for the upcoming season. It even lets you create contracts for players not yet on your team. Very useful for figuring out these kinds of things.
http://capgeek.com/cap_calculator.php?Team=4
They call me Splodeybones.
I like capgeek.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:17 PM EST up reply actions
gotter bookmarked
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:17 PM EST up reply actions
I gave Kovalchuk $1.5 million to play for the Q.C. expansion team. That’s believable right?
They call me Splodeybones.
that’s a burn
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions
OK, I did it
Time to plan the parade:
2010-11 Salary Cap Calculator
2010-2011 Toronto Maple Leafs
PLAYER BONUS CAP HIT
FORWARDS
- Patrick Marleau — $6,000,000
Phil Kessel — $5,400,000
Jason Blake — $4,000,000
Tyler Bozak ($2,850,000) $3,725,000 - Alexei Ponikarovsky — $3,500,000
Niklas Hagman — $3,000,000
Mikhail Grabovski — $2,900,000 - Nikolai Kulemin — $1,750,000
Colton Orr — $1,000,000 - Christian Hanson — $925,000
Viktor Stalberg ($65,000) $850,000 - John Mitchell — $750,000
Jay Rosehill — $512,500
DEFENSEMEN
Mike Komisarek — $4,500,000
Tomas Kaberle — $4,250,000
Francois Beauchemin — $3,800,000
Jeff Finger — $3,500,000
Luke Schenn ($2,100,000) $2,975,000 - Ian White — $2,000,000
Carl Gunnarsson ($170,000) $800,000
Juraj Mikus — $563,333
GOALTENDERS - Jonas Gustavsson — $2,500,000
- Joey MacDonald — $650,000
BUYOUTS
Darcy Tucker — $1,000,000
LOST VIA REENTRY WAIVERS
NONE
CAPGEEK.COM TOTALS
ROSTER SIZE 23
SALARY CAP $56,800,000
PAYROLL $60,850,833
BONUSES $5,185,000
CAP SPACE $209,167
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions
WOOO
man that Tucker buyout makes me mad
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:38 PM EST up reply actions
Could be worse
People were calling for Finger or Blake’s contract to be bought out.
Imagine another 1.75m or 2m on our books for the NEXT 6 YEARS
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
Rosehill!
I knew I was forgetting somebody!
Not bad at all (although I still think White will get higher than $2m)
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
Term
This is PPP's work account until further notice. Damn Internet.
by David Danforth on Dec 10, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions
“Ok kid, I’ll give you 6 years and half price hot dogs… final offer”
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:43 PM EST up reply actions
Depending on how many hot dogs you eat
That could actually eventually end up working out in his favour.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
No
To begin with I don’t think Marleau will come near Toronto because Burke won’t tie up the cap space long-term.
But if he is going to get $6M then term is likely why he agreed.
This is PPP's work account until further notice. Damn Internet.
by David Danforth on Dec 10, 2009 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
well yeah. If 6 million was the real number, it would be due to the term. That would just never happen.
shhh
I must keep my Marleau dream alive!!!!!!!!!
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:50 PM EST up reply actions
Can’t be signing somewhere to be on a better contender…. San Jose regularly looks like they have the team to do it
Unfortunately they have been suffering from Senatoritis for the past several years.
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:50 PM EST up reply actions
I really think Marleau will sign somewhere else and find great success. My wish is for this to correspond with the Leafs success.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:52 PM EST up reply actions
You, me and Jared – on the Marleau Train!
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:52 PM EST up reply actions
If I wish hard enough, anything can happen!!!
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 4:54 PM EST up reply actions
BLAKE FOR MARLEAU
STRAIGHT UP
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 4:57 PM EST up reply actions
Eyebeleaf, is that you?
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:55 PM EST up reply actions
I’m trying to be more optimistic this year.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:00 PM EST up reply actions
He’s a good role model for that
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 5:01 PM EST up reply actions
gets to be berated by Ron Wilson again?
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions
I could handle that for much, much less…..
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 4:44 PM EST up reply actions
To be clear, I don’t in my wildest dreams think this could happen. I just wanted to see how far I had to push assumptions to get Marleau (who I think we could get for $6M over the right term). Pretty far, as several have pointed out.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 10, 2009 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
Cool your jets, quit your frets!
I envision Stajan, Poni, Garbo, Mitchell and a few other 2nd/3rd liners being shipped out by Burke to make some cap space and recoup some value for players he doesn’t intend to keep. He wasn’t afraid to do it with Kubina and I’m almost certain that he’ll do it again this year. Even if he only nets a few 3rd or 4th rounders in return he’ll do it.
Then, next year they can let the cream rise to the top. (Kadri (maybe), Kessel, Stalberg, Bozak, Hagman + UFA signing?) and spend the bulk of their Forward budget there.
Let the inexpensive 3rd and 4th lines (Primeau, Hanson, Blake (ew, ok this one isn’t inexpensive…), Wallin + 2 or 3 cheap UFA plugs or callups) fill out the bottom to eat up minutes and kill some penalties.
The Defense is pretty much locked in salary-wise so there isn’t much flexibility there… Exelby and Finger are too expensive for what they provide but I think we’re stuck with Jeffy.
It isn’t so bad, they can make some room for themselves. But anybody who thinks we’re getting Kovalchuk is out to lunch.
Why do we do this to ourselves?
For all the Stajan love
that seems to be around lately, I haven’t seen a single post saying we should resign him
Godamnit we need a top-line centreman.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
we really need to think what team can we sell to at the deadline
im thinking that if we can trade poni to a playoff desperate team at the deadline for a first in next years draft we should do it
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
kings come to mind… if they would part with baby schenn
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
by Buds'n'Syrup on Dec 10, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions
that’s rather overly optimistic, even for me.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:04 PM EST up reply actions
Pro Tip
Braydon Schenn is a King. For a long, long time.
Next item on your wishlist please.
I have nothing interesting to say.
by blurr1974 on Dec 11, 2009 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
things the Kings have that I’d rather have than Brayden and are probably easier to get
Moller
Brown
Johnson
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 11, 2009 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
That's
a reach. But i’d take it.
You know, if LEAFS are having problems with Cap room, how the hell are others teams feeling?
Have you even SEEN Chicago, Washingon or Philly’s caps? JEEEZ.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions
Hagman is excellent.
Can we take a moment to bask in the warm glowing warming glow of Nik Hagman?
The guy makes a reasonable salary, is responsible defensively and puts up points. He isn’t a 1st line kind of guy but nobody expects him to be. He’s just a good-old-fashioned, honest-to-goodness, very capable, generally streaky 2nd liner.
Go Nik.
Why do we do this to ourselves?
Out of the blue comment
But so full of fact-truths.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions
AMEN
hagman is by far a keeper withstanding an amazing deal
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
by Buds'n'Syrup on Dec 10, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
one of the best moves by Fletcher, for sure.
"The only way out is in a body bag. Go Leafs Go." - Blinky
by Karina on Dec 10, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions
is there any team that is stupid enough to take finger???
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
so we dont have to pay 3.5 mil for a player who is scratched half the games
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
by Buds'n'Syrup on Dec 10, 2009 5:08 PM EST up reply actions
No.
Unless a playoff team loses like 3 of their dmen to LTIR
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 5:09 PM EST up reply actions
How about Wallin?
Don’t know his stats off-hand but I know he has majorly underperformed our expectations which means that if we have faith he can be a decent 3rd liner than we should resign him at minimal cost
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
Nah.
Leafs Rumination: hockey and sesquipedalianism.
by puckurgently on Dec 10, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions
I think we need to re-sign at least White asap and offer him at least 2-3 mil a season,
Brian Burke: Expanding vocabularies since 2009
by Buds'n'Syrup on Dec 10, 2009 5:14 PM EST up reply actions
You should
Read a few of the hundred posts above.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 5:15 PM EST up reply actions
No.
Just…. no.
Leafs Nation: A drinking team with a hockey problem.
by nhlcheapshot on Dec 10, 2009 5:13 PM EST up reply actions
We should rec this post a few times because of the really good debates it has inspired
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 5:25 PM EST reply actions
how do you rec a post.. i don’t see the little actions thing anywhere
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:45 PM EST up reply actions
nvm a further search yielded the rec button itself
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 10, 2009 5:46 PM EST up reply actions
Now you know
and knowing is half the battle!
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the the universe."
Albert Einstein
by Say *plan the parade one more time*... on Dec 10, 2009 6:55 PM EST up reply actions
is the blake 1 game love in over? great, bye bye.
"Dad why are you crying?"
by my son has a choice on Dec 10, 2009 9:24 PM EST reply actions
Am I missing something here?
I know what the cap situation looks like here, but I seriously doubt Burke would not sign a player he wanted. He can just place Blake or Finger in the minors to free up some space.
by bradleyhutchison on Dec 10, 2009 11:30 PM EST reply actions
He can’t just “send guys to the minors” to clear up cap space. The NHL has a bylaw which states that a team must ice their most competitive team. Basically that means that unless there is a damn good reason to send Blake down, the NHL could call shenanigans on the Leafs and charge them with circumventing the salary cap and CBA. That is not a good thing.
They call me Splodeybones.
Well then I’ll just call shenanigans on the league. Why should one GM be saddled with the mistakes of the one before him?!?!
OK, I get why that should be the case but… NO FAIRR!!!
Why do we do this to ourselves?
Plus there is that whole situation with the players themselves, would you feel comfortable signing with a team if you look at them and see that they bury people in the minors because they have a bigger contract?
You would have to question yourself and think even if my game doesn’t lose a step, how long is it before I become expendable because someone younger, faster or better comes up for free agency?
Life as a Toronto Sports Fan?... *sigh*... It is what it is...
You can’t really prove that he’s not icing his most competitive team. =P So he doesn’t need to worry about that.
The only time that would ever apply is if a team did something really egregious, like if the Penguins were near last place in the league at the trade deadline, and sent Malkin, Crosby and Marc-Andre Fleury to the minors (assuming they didn’t have to clear waivers). =P
It’s pretty much a bylaw with no teeth that’s just there to be there.
is the term actually shenanigans.. i think it would be worth doing just to see that headline
Supporter of Poni as a Leaf for the 10/11 season
Toronto Maple Leafs: Blue Chip Dmen - www.akischennberg.blogspot.com
by AkiSchennberg on Dec 12, 2009 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
Ditch Blake, Finger, Poni, Kaberle, forget about Marleau, try to sign Kovalchuk! Then bring up Rosehill, Stalberg, Hanson, Kadri, Bozak, and forget about the rest.
Not really a cap issue at all.
Do not want Kovalchuck
too much money, too one dimensional, too tempermental
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 16, 2009 5:43 PM EST up reply actions
the eggnogg is telling me Marleau AND Borque over Kovalchuck
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 16, 2009 5:53 PM EST up reply actions
Frolov is kovalchuk lite with more floating, and Ott is a bitch
if the leafs are going for someone to get under another players skin, get armstrong
Puns, Innuendo and Bad Spelling, Yes We Got That
by JaredFromLondon on Dec 16, 2009 6:05 PM EST up reply actions
Hate Ott, don’t mind Armstrong. Would be a bit sad to see Poni and Kaberle go but if it must be done… so be it.
My art portfolio:
http://www.artwanted.com/artist.cfm?ArtID=41118&IRV=36
-Graham-
by CanadianMaple09 on Dec 16, 2009 10:48 PM EST up reply actions
I love Steve Ott. Makes Avery look like a saint.
by Cat Smasher on Dec 17, 2009 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
Blake & Finger aren’t going anywhere. This team isn’t good enough that MLSE will ditch $7.5MM in salary on the Marlies. It also creates potential problems in signing future UFAs—who’ll want to go to a team that might do that to them? I still can’t believe the Caps did it with Nylander but they’re contending for a Cup this year.
by The '67 Sound on Dec 17, 2009 9:54 AM EST up reply actions
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Pension Plan Puppets
Related FanShots on Pension Plan Puppets
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
In Association With
Latest Puck Daddy - NHL from Yahoo! Sports
- Saturday’s Three Stars: Another Malkin 5-spot; Price spoils Sundin night
- The Chicago Blackhawks’ losing streak is bad for everybody
- According to NHL, here’s why Dominic Moore escaped suspension for Fedotenko hit
- How Mats Sundin’s no-trade clause controversy made fans reconsider loyalty in NHL
- Nordiques Nation invades Hockey Day in Canada
Latest stories and headlines from NHL.com
- WHL Roundup: A look at Saturday's games
- Shinnimin scores twice and adds assist as Americans beat Chiefs 5-3
- Reid with three goals and an assist as Winterhawks beat Thunderbirds 7-2
- Willick scores twice, including winner, as the Blazers beat the Rockets 3-2
- Simpson 41 saves, earning the game`s first star, as Silvertips beat Giants 4-2
SBNation.com Recent Stories
StatCounter
Certain photos copyright © 2012 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
