Matt Cullen Mentioned in Chicago Rumors
The Chicago Daily Herald ran a report over the weekend which stated that the Blackhawks were interested in Carolina Hurricanes center, Matt Cullen. Chicago second line center, Dave Bolland, recently had back surgery and is out indefinitely. Cullen would be a nice plug in for them, for a couple of reasons. Most notably, his contract would run out at the end of this season.
The Hawks will be hard pressed to fit several of their young stars under the salary cap next year.
If the Hurricanes can not reverse their losing ways, the deal would make sense for them if they got the right return. As long as the Canes are out of the playoff race, expect many more rumors to come.
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Comments
If I was Cullen I’d run with that, the Hawks are gonna make a good run for the Cup this year.
So, all my teams suck!
by canescup on Nov 16, 2009 10:02 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
As much as i like him, id would be stupidity not to go. It is obvious we aren’t going anywhere this season. I’m curious as to what we would get in return?
by Blacklisted on Nov 16, 2009 10:07 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
culln for kane
patrick kane to the canes…ha
anyway, i would hate to see cullen go,
thats all i can say.
by chrisj on Nov 16, 2009 10:13 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Love the trade idea for Kane chrisj
Agreed trade Cullen for Patrick Kane and lets start to rebuild and cut payroll and dump guys that are older and unrestricted free agents at the end of this season.
We need to find a team Wallin will accept a trade to and get something for him (diffcult to move b/c we gave him a no-trade clause).
Just don’t to lose whitney but mostly everyone else could go (Walker, LaRose, Wallin, Cullen).
Cullen trade will allow Sutter to become our second line center which is where the Hurricanes really want him playing right now anyway.
by Holty_Panthers_Fan on Nov 17, 2009 11:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I mentioned this on another post a little while ago. While I would love for Cullen to stick around, it obvious we could not afford him (with Brind’Amours salary) for next year. If it happens, we would probably get D-Cam Barker or RW-Patrick Sharp. Either would be fine with me, but I think Barker is probably the one JR is looking at. Barker could possibly play with Pitkanen or Gleason, contribute on the PP, and would allow for some more freedom to move Corvo.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 10:19 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
think hurricanes need some offense because they are not scoring. We need to bring in some younger guys who have a lot of potential in the NHL
by caneshockey87 on Nov 16, 2009 10:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We have some (inexpensive) potential in Albany. Moving Cullen would allow for Boychuk or somebody to move up. Again, if we were to get Barker; then moving Corvo becomes easier.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 11:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t know that Cullen alone would be enough for Barker.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 10:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What about Versteeg?
Still not a crook!
by TrickyD26 on Nov 16, 2009 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Versteeg
Versteeg is awesome; but given his size, I would hesitate to trade for him. He and Boychuk have similar skill sets. Here is the sbnation scouting report on Versteeg for whatever that information is worth:
Scouting Report
Assets
* Has excellent offensive instincts and a nose for the net. Is also decent without the puck and in the defensive zone.
Flaws
* Is smallish by NHL standards, and as a result has difficulty winning corner battles in the big league due to a lack of strength.
Career Potential
* Scoring forward.
by abramsdoug on Nov 16, 2009 11:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll take skill over size any day. Ideally you want both, but I think this season has taught us which of the two is most important…
Still not a crook!
by TrickyD26 on Nov 16, 2009 11:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just asking, why not? They need a center and need to clear cap room. Barker is really their 4th defenseman and they are high on Hjalmarsson. I’m not saying your wrong, but it would seem to be a pretty fair deal.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 11:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Because the only reason Barker isn’t part of their long-term plans is b/c Keith and Seabrook complement each other so well and Campbell is unmoveable. I’d put Barker ahead of Campbell on the pecking order, actually.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 11:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hawks fan disagrees
Barker has flashes of brilliance, but they are extremely fleeting. He’s a complete disaster 5-on-5, which is why he’s stuck in the 3rd D pairing with Brent Sopel, and takes a lot of plays off in his own zone. Plus, he doesn’t seem to quite have the hockey smarts of the top 4 defensemen in reading plays and knowing when he can cheat into the offensive zone and not be a potential liability. You can see the skill-set that made him a high draft pick in brief moments, but the lionshare of the time he’s out there (especially in 5-on-5 situations) he’s a sieve. Go check out the Second City Hockey blog for their thoughts on Barker as well.
As somebody who watches him nightly and has watched his “progression” since the 2004 draft, I’m telling you that if I were Stan Bowman, I’d do the Cullen for Barker swap in a heartbeat. Think about it…Barker was the 3rd pick in the 2004 draft (behind Ovechkin and Malkin) and was picked well ahead of similar offensive-defensemen players such as Mike Green, Mark Streit, Alex Edler and Alex Gogiloski. Who has developed better and would you rather have?
by hoorock89 on Nov 16, 2009 3:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But he’s a 23-year-old d-man with lots of upside. Hindsight is 20-20 (of course they’d take Green before him now), but it Barker was as expendable as you claim they wouldn’t have given him the big contract when Tallon screwed up the qualifying offers. There aren’t too many defensemen out there who are as young as him with 40-point seasons on their resume — plus he’s a monster.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 3:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is not to say they won’t trade him (he’s a prime candidate to be moved), but they can squeeze more blood from the Barker stone than Cullen.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 3:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree on "Upside"
But Barker seems to be strictly a stop gap for the Hawks at this point in that 3rd D pairing. He only gets ice time alongside Brent Sopel and on the 2nd PP unit and doesn’t seem destined for the long haul with this team, especially considering the defensive prospects the Hawks have high in their system. Jordan Hendry is a guy who could slot right into that 3rd pairing tomorrow (he did it last year in stretches and didn’t look one bit out of place) and the Hawks organization is very high on Shawn Lalonde, Simon Denis-Pepin and Dylan Olsen (though Olsen is a few years away from the NHL). So the Hawks do have some depth on the blueline and that might make Barker and his contract expendable.
I think the Hawks would only be looking to move either Barker or Versteeg in this deal and there’s an outside chance they could move Sharp (but he plays so well with Kane that I doubt it) strictly due to their contracts and the depth at their position. Byfuglien is another interesting possibility as the Hawks have Troy Brouwer and Tomas Kopecky essentially doing his “screen the goalie” job a lot this season. And the Hawks have two very similar players to Buff high in their system in Akim Aliu and Kyle Beach.
All things considered, I’d do Cullen for Barker, Byfuglien or Versteeg straight up. And if the Canes threw in a high prospect or draft pick, I’d entertain moving Sharp. Because essentially, moving any of those guys enhances the possibility that Chicago keeps all their big three free agents next year (Kane, Toews and Keith) without sacrificing their chances is 2010.
by hoorock89 on Nov 16, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I personally don’t think the Canes would have interest in Sharp … personally, I’d be giddy about a Barker-for-Cullen deal.
Agreed on the pipeline the Hawks have going. Beach is going to be a terror … pre-SteveMoore Todd Bertuzzi, IMO.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s all Chicago needs is a Todd Bertuzzi on top of everything else.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 4:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, if Beach doesn’t end up in a penitentiary first. And as giddy as you’d be about that deal, I’d be equally stoked. We could go out drinking and be merry as I’d be glad to see Barker gone in favor of a solid 2-way center who has some offensive upside, especially considering Hossa will probably be on his wing.
by hoorock89 on Nov 16, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Barker is 3 years 3 months younger than Tim Gleason. And I recall 3 years ago Gleason being lost on defense most of the time just like Hoorock describes Barker. Tim turned out pretty well I’d say.
I don’t know how salary would work out this year but say next year ‘Canes lose AWard and Wallin combined salary of $4.225mil and add Barker’s $3mil and start Rodney at let’s say an A.Alberts salary of 800k. So JR sheds 400k.
by drifterscape on Nov 16, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think they would take a trade of Cullen + a pick (3rd or 4th likely) or a prospect (anyone other than Boychuck, Bowman, or Mcbain) for Cam Barker. No it’s not an extremely fair trade as Barker is a 4th overall draft pick and could easily turn into a first pairing defenseman however as you said they are already dead-set on Keith, Seabrook, Hjarlmarsson, and Campbell (only because he would be impossible to move at his salary). They got themselves into a bad position where they HAVE to move cap space to sign Kane, Toews, and Keith next off-season.
On the Hawks sites they want to give up Sopel and Skille for Cullen. Sopel is a 32 year old journeyman defenseman who is alright, but this would totally defeat the purpose of getting younger he is more defensive than offensive. Skille is a nice sweetner to the deal as a highly touted RW who some say is NHL ready but hasn’t really shown a whole lot of flash in the AHL.
by JussiJuice on Nov 16, 2009 3:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Skille reminds me of Jeff Tambellini … tons of potential, but can’t seem to do it at NHL speed. Granted, still just 22 … just saying.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, Skille and McBain were teammates at Wisconsin for a season … I think 2006-07.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 3:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and we will still have the problem of scoring goals. a sudden 4 goals against a bad Minnesota team doesnt mean we have shaken off the lack of scoring on this team.
by Blacklisted on Nov 16, 2009 10:23 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Backstrom might not be having a stellar year but I don’t think you should discount the work it took to get 4 past him.
Ruutu was a screen setting monster yesterday.
by Iggy Reilly on Nov 16, 2009 10:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
To me Rodney is the reason we are clicking, he knows what to do when the puck is on his stick in the offensive zone. He always seems to make the right decision, which is why he deserves to stay here. Especially now with Pits possibly hurt again…..has anyone heard an update on him, or yelle and walks for that matter
by Blacklisted on Nov 16, 2009 10:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Another piece of coal for the fire
Here’s another article from the Sporting News posted Sunday on the same topic:
Cullen Could Be Moved – Who Else? by Craig Custance
In particular, note this observation within that article:
If Rutherford goes into firesale mode, he has some ammunition. It’d certainly be a sellers market right now, since there aren’t a lot of teams looking to deal veterans thanks to parity being at an all-time high. I talked to one GM at the meetings in Toronto and he said it’s nearly impossible to find a team willing to move players for draft picks or prospects. Everybody wants something back to help them now since nearly every team is still in the mix, making a trade really challenging because it has to be the perfect fit. If Rutherford decides to look to the future, he could certainly cash in.
Could be that JR is in a unique position within the league right now. Although several teams look like questionable contenders, JR may have the best assets to dangle for those looking for injury replacements and/or augmentations. Also, he may be in a unique position of having good talent to offer and be willing to take prospects/picks instead of equal talent in return. That’s important for teams trying to maintain or get better.
If this is the cases, then the timing of at least some trades could be sooner in the season than the trade deadline.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 10:28 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Nice find!! That’s about the best “silver lining” I have had the privlage to see.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 10:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Need to give credit to Brian LeBlanc (Curtis Media) for tweeting a link to that article under his Twitter account right before yesterday’s game.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 11:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And Rosie is starting to come along. It is impressive how much he can change a game while not appearing on a score sheet
by Blacklisted on Nov 16, 2009 10:28 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately after almost getting 20 goals last year, and getting a hefty raise, he is now being paid to make a difference on the score sheet too.
by Iggy Reilly on Nov 16, 2009 10:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I really don’t see how Larose is coming along at all. Granted I think he playing with Brind’Amour will kill any wingers chance to shine but Larose still looks just as invisible to me. He is working hard but he is making nothing happen, 3 points and a -9 rating in 19 games is unacceptable (especially considering about half those games were on the first line with Staal).
by JussiJuice on Nov 16, 2009 11:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
cullen
i think we should get rid of Brindamour and Larose since neither one is producing.
by caneshockey87 on Nov 16, 2009 10:30 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Number 8
I’d hate to see Cullen moved. His hat trick against the Sabers last year is a big reason I got into hockey. But it would seem to make sense for the team.
by brogshan on Nov 16, 2009 10:41 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
If you watch him its surprising to me that he isnt score 35 goals a season, but for whatever reason he just seems to get back breaks. My favorite is his little toe drag snap shot using the defender as a screen….yet ive only seen him score on that move twice..
by Blacklisted on Nov 16, 2009 10:44 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
J “The Recycler”R would be in the same position this summer to get him signed as he would be otherwise. So we lose Cullen for the rest of the year, which is write off. Cullen get’s a shot on a hot young team for ring. It sounds like a win win. I hate to see him go, but if he’s gotta go in the summer, I’d like to see him on a team with a shot.
I hope we get him back in the summer though. I think he still has alot of good hockey left in the tank.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 10:46 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Resign him? How? If he goes to another team and does well he’s out of the Canes’ price range.
by Gillimus on Nov 16, 2009 8:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s sorta my point. If he’s gone this summer when he’s a FA and we have no intention of retaining him, then trade him now. If on the other hand when he’s a FA, we were going to want to retain him, then a sabatical to a cup contender team would be best for him as this season is a wash for us. So trade him and then resign him.
I think the guy has great value, however it’s gonna be wasted on this team, this year. I would hope that the Canes want to keep him, he’s my favorite Cane. If not then trade him now when the window is right. His limited time until FA will be a benifit to a team like Chi.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 8:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
get rid of the people who are not producing larose, samsonov,or brindamour. we payin some of these guys to much money and they are not producing
by caneshockey87 on Nov 16, 2009 10:47 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Sammy? Gotta keep him.
So, all my teams suck!
by canescup on Nov 16, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
+100
I don’t think Sergei is going anywhere, nor do I think he should.
by UTTRmartin on Nov 16, 2009 6:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Getting rid of the people not producing is difficult because no one wants them. It takes two to trade and no one outside of Al Davis will trade a turd for a first round pick.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 1:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
how about the brain trust in Tampa Bay?
GM of CanesCountry.com
by Bob Harwood Waeghe on Nov 16, 2009 1:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
JR convincing them to take Brookbank and Melichar for Jokinen should have earned him GM of the year honors. That man could sell ice to the Eskimos.
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 1:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Plus, unloading Tverdovsky’s $2.5M salary (or whatever amount it was) as part of the Jack Johnson for Tim Gleason swap. That turned into pick-your-$2.5M-FA-of-choice-player for a bench-warming pad.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 1:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Anson Carter…
JR ain’t always great.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 1:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Carter disappeared from hockey as soon as he joined this team.
by 3yrsnoplayoffs? on Nov 16, 2009 1:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and he cost next to nothing (fifth-round pick)
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 1:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and signing melichar in the first place..
and now aaron ward…
by chrisj on Nov 16, 2009 1:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It ain’t over yet. JR may be able to get someone convinced that A.Ward isn’t all that bad.
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Plus we didn’t give up a whole lot for A.Ward either. Patrick Eaves (who was a bust) and what? A late draft pick (5th round is what I have in my head, but can’t be sure that’s what it was)?
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 1:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, that one stunk, but at least didn’t cost very much.
I was watching a special on the ’99 playoff series against Boston the other day. JR wanted THAT Anson, the Canes-killer, not the one he got.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 1:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Tampa did more signing than trading. They would give Al Davis a run for his money if they would keep on fueding over who is in control.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 3:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Cullen
I love the guy, but guess I’m just taking a hard business look at the team these days. I’m in asset management mode.
Any UFA that we don’t think has a spot on the New Canes really needs to be converted into a more long-term asset at this point, whenever possible, regardless of how big a role they play on the Old Canes or how much we like them. It’s just asset management to preserve the “wealth” of the team, turning an expiring UFA contract into a younger longer-term contract, now or in some future year.
To me, Sutter is Cullen, so I do believe he’s expendable. Sutter is our second-line center on the New Canes.
So, Cullen for an RFA that fits into the New Canes or for picks/prospects that have statistical chances of turning into equal value in future years, while lowering salary budget and opening a meaningful spot in the roster for a Rat this year, is going to be fine with me.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 10:54 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
The only problem is the Hawks are looking to clear salary room also and unless they put Bolland on Long Term Injured Reserve they don’t have the cap space to add a player. I would really like to see Barker or Versteeg coming back. I think Barker would be the best bet to add a young offensive D (RFA signed for the next 3 years). Versteeg is a young speedy winger who had 53 points in 78 games last year as a rookie which is very impressive, however with Hossa coming back he is the odd winger out for top-6 minutes.
Even if Sutter isn’t ready for the 2nd line we still have Jokinen who I think has been doing a great job as the 2nd line center the past few games.
by JussiJuice on Nov 16, 2009 11:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The nuance with the Hawks is that they need to clear salary cap for next year, when the RFA raises are due for their young guns.
So, trading an RFA under contract for next year for a UFA whose contract expires this year works for them, as long as they don’t weaken the team in a deep playoff run year.
Works for us, too, in that any RFA that fits our New Canes model (not just picks/prospects) helps us, even if it doesn’t help the salary budget for this year. Besides, more buzz this year means a better walk-up crowd, and less need to reduce the salary budget.
Also agree that Jokinen provides reassurance that we would be fine down the middle.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 11:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Cullen
I have had the same reaction to the situation. With Staal, Sutter, and Jokinen, the Hurricanes would and/or will have their three starting centers. Sutter is only going to get better. Cullen is an outstanding player and it hurt the Hurricanes badly when he was not re-signed after 2005-2006. I don’t know if the Hurricanes could re-sign him. In terms of dire needs for the Hurricanes, the lack of another fast, large power forward who can create havoc in front of the net, is a greater concern than a fast, agile, and intelligent center. I’d rather have Cullen and that ideal power forward, but I can’t figure out how to keep both. The only way would be if some team wanted Brind’Amour. I just can’t envision that occurring. As an alternative, I would vastly prefer to trade LaRose and keep Cullen, which strikes me at least slightly possible. Cullen is the kind of underrated player who only is fully appreciated when he is no longer on the team. I am assuming, as well, that the Hurricanes will get a top tier pick in the draft and as one person posting on this site said, the Hurricanes will get another Staal. If Cullen were to be traded, I hope he goes to a team that does well in the playoffs. He is a class act and deserves the best,
by abramsdoug on Nov 16, 2009 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s also worth noting that Matt’s brother Mark is under contract with the Hawks and plays with their farm team in Rockford.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 11:01 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
and is the IceHogs leading scorer right now (7-9-16 in 19 GP)
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 11:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nice factoid, Cory. So that would be the Bowman/Cullen Dynasty?
;-)
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 11:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nooooo! I hope they don’t trade Cullen, again :(
by hip_check on Nov 16, 2009 11:21 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
A lot of people are talking about getting rid of the players that aren’t producing. That’s easier said than done. With most teams in some sort of budget mode (cap for self imposed), it’s difficult trying to add a player that is expensive and not producing. The old saying is “buy low, sell high.” To get rid of those players, you have to see them produce something so another team gets interested. Right now, Cullen and Corvo are playing above average and interesting to other teams. I hate to see them go, but sell now before something happens (i.e. Cullen getting injuried).
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 11:35 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
not savvy about this
do players have any say whatsoever if they’re traded or NO? so he’d pick up and move to chicago even though he’s having a decent season IMO. so with his salary they could maybe get 2 players or something? interesting how this works in hockey. it is brutal.
by emmarose on Nov 16, 2009 11:37 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
some players do, some don’t. Cullen probably does not. The Canes would have to take back at least some salary for this to work with Chicago (see their cap problems), but the Canes have cap issues themselves. Two players are possible, but IMO that is unlikely. If Cullen goes to Chicago, it’s probably a player for a player.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 11:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would say a mid-level prospect could be part of the deal, too … maybe a Nick Dodge-type that is a projected as a fringe NHLer.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 11:52 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
More rumor fodder re: Cullen
can be found in a Hockey News article published today.
Chicago Blackhawks two-way center Dave Bolland has been sidelined by back surgery that’s expected to keep him out of the lineup for up to four months. That’s sparked talk management is looking for a replacement.
The Chicago Daily Herald reported Sunday Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman was eyeing Carolina Hurricanes center Matt Cullen, who’s on a one-year contract worth $2.875 million.
Bowman would have to either send a comparable salary back to the Hurricanes to make room for Cullen’s contract or place Bolland on long-term injury status for the necessary cap relief.
Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford recently suggested changes could be coming to his struggling roster and it is believed he’d like to make his roster younger and faster.
Don’t be surprised if Bowman offers up a prospect or draft pick for Cullen once Bolland goes on the LTIR.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 12:11 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Barker in Chicago
A quick look at the time-on-ice for the Chicago D men shows Barker to be currently the 5th defenseman, behind Keith, Campbell, Seabrook and Hjalmarsson (all 20+ per night). In fact, Barker is getting equal time with 6th D man Brent Sopel. He may be the most expendable asset on that team. They could spare a RW, with Troy Brouwer as the most likely odd-man out… Maybe Byfuglien, but he is not easily replaced from within by Chicago.
In all honestly, Byfuglien might be the better target for the Canes, since he sort of fits the power-forward role.
by prplmnkydw on Nov 16, 2009 1:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
wow
In all honesty, not in all honestly….
by prplmnkydw on Nov 16, 2009 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s more b/c Hjalmarsson is a shutdown guy that can balance out Campbell’s running around. I don’t think it’s an indictment of Barker’s play there. But all the points you are making are one’s JR should make if he’s trying to get Barker.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 1:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Right
No doubt Barker is very talented, just buried on a deep roster… which makes him expendable.
by prplmnkydw on Nov 16, 2009 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No thanks on Byfuglien. I don’t want Cullen moved for a winger who was playing D just a few years ago. There are bigger rewards available for the same risk.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 1:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Byfuglien and Search for a Power Forward
Byfuglien may well not be the answer; but a power forward with his size would add tremendously to the Hurricanes’ inside game. I am also assuming that the Hurricanes use their first round draft pick to obtain a game-changer forward (hope springs eternal).
by abramsdoug on Nov 16, 2009 1:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’d love to have both of those. And I don’t have a lot of problems with Byfuglien. But Cullen could end up one of the prize jewels of the trade market, especially if Anaheim gets things in gear and Saku Koivu isn’t available. If/when Cullen gets moved I’d like more upside coming back then Byfuglien.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Think so? I think teams would like a guy like Cullen, but i don’t see him as someone who is hotly pursued.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 3:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Except by some of the women-folk around here ;)
(sorry, couldn’t resist)
by hip_check on Nov 16, 2009 3:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Name a player
And I think together we can all name at least one woman folk who’s in love (lust) with them.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 16, 2009 4:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Canes player? Or any player in general?
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 6:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was going to go with Sean Avery or Chris Pronger. But Parros is a good choice.
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 7:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Georges LaRoque…
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 7:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Canes player of course
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 16, 2009 9:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
After all, the discussion was about Cullen
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 16, 2009 9:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In that case, I will venture a guess and go with Manny Legace.
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 9:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What, you don’t like dwarfs?
:)
by Andrea's evil twin on Nov 16, 2009 9:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just as much as I like elves (cough Sammy cough). They just aren’t “lust” worthy.
by caniacgirl on Nov 16, 2009 10:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmm, I kinda feel like Sammy is more of a gnome or dwarf than an elf…
Though he does have that whole graceful ballet aspect to him, I still think gnome.
by Andrea's evil twin on Nov 16, 2009 11:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh, ain’t it “Dwarves”?
You know me and spelling..
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 17, 2009 5:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My mom insists he belongs in a tree making cookies. She will not be swayed.
by caniacgirl on Nov 17, 2009 7:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The guys I sit next to call him "turtle"
He plays with his shoulders hunched and his head down.
With his helmet on, I can see what they’re talking about real easy.
Save he’s a bit faster than a turtle.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 17, 2009 7:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I note that HMO2 hasn't responded.....
so who knows how she feels.
Besides Legace’s stat page says he’s 2" taller than I. It says he’s 5’10" and I’m at 5’8".
Dwarf my …..
So how tall are you all?
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 17, 2009 7:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sammi is also 5'8"
I am only 5’9" so you wont hear much of this talk out of me!!
But I think with Sami its more looks then height.
by packpigskinfan25 on Nov 17, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Outside of Saku, what other Centers do you see available at the deadline? I know it’s a long time between now and then, but It’s likely Cullen, Comrie, Stajan and Belanger will be available. I don’t see Dallas moving Modano. Halpern could be available depending on how Tampa is doing. It’s not a deep year for help at Center. Prize jewel may have been an overstatement. Actually, it was. But compared to the other options, he should draw significant interest.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Nov 16, 2009 4:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Eklund pump fakes and drives left
From his blog entry posted moments ago:
Cullen Not the Hawks Target, Who Is?
Rumors are swirling that the Blackhawks are looking into Matt Cullen to replce the injured Bolland when he heads to Long term injured reserve. As fas as I can tell the Hawks are looking at another option right now, and not Cullen. While Cullen is solid two ways, and may end up being there guy, I would look to another struggling Eastern Conference team…
The Hawks are interested in Dominic Moore in Florida. You may recall at last year’s deadline the Hawks made a push for Dominic Moore and it was even reported by some outlets that it would happen. Moore really struggled to get an offer this summer due to a high asking price and has been out of the line-up for Florida until just recently.
That being said, Moore’s 1 million is a perfect fit for the Hawks. And he has something left in the tank as well…plus he makes the Hawks tougher and when Bolland returns you can find a way to keep him in the line-up.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 1:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, but consider the source. Hey, got him a link, so mission accomplished. LOL
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 1:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So you think Cullen is still of interest to the Hawks?
by hockeythoughts on Nov 16, 2009 2:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Canes and Hawks are a perfect fit … which is why I suggested Whitney being a good fit there a couple weeks back.
by Cory Lavalette on Nov 16, 2009 2:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This makes it official, Cullen will indeed go to the Hawks, because Dwayne the Fraud says otherwise.
by wylde4canes on Nov 16, 2009 2:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
itll probably by andrew ladd….knowing JRs tendencies. ha
by chrisj on Nov 16, 2009 1:30 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Too slow of foot for the Canes; I think that’s one of the reasons why he was traded in the first place.
by hockeythoughts on Nov 16, 2009 2:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I like this
As a Hawks fan, I would be all for picking up Matt Cullen. He’s been a very underrated player for a long time and would fit into the Hawks lineup perfectly.
Cam Barker or Byfugilen would be the most likely players going back to the Canes I would think. The Hawks have plenty of pieces to replace Buf, namely Kyle Beach or Akim Aliu in Rockford, and even Jack Skille to a point.
The Hawks don’t really have any NHL ready prospects on defense, but Cam Barker just scares the hell out of me everytime he’s on the ice. He’s got a great shot and can QB a powerplay, but he is completely clueless in his own end.
Moving either of those guys would free up enough money to re-sign Toews, Kane, and Duncan Keith which is the priority obviously in the offseason. I’d still like the Hawks to re-sign Andrew Ladd but I don’t know if that’s going to happen. He may be slow as you Canes fans know, but he really turned into a useful player once he got to Chicago.
by HawksFTW on Nov 16, 2009 3:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Andrew Ladd
Andrew Ladd does fit perfectly with Chicago’s style. The Blackhawks have tremendous speed, but Ladd works the inside game extremely well. He has done a great job in Chicago. I have followed the Blackhawks and Ladd via Center Ice. With a trade or two and a good draft this year, the Hurricanes could become very similar to the Blackhawks.
by abramsdoug on Nov 16, 2009 4:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Imagine a team like the Blackhawks with a goalie like Cam Ward…
Still not a crook!
by TrickyD26 on Nov 16, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In the near future, we will have a team like the Blackhawks, full of youth and speed! And even better than that, we have Cam Ward!
by 3yrsnoplayoffs? on Nov 16, 2009 7:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Chicago Is The New Philly?
Remember a few years back when the only team Rutherford seemed to deal with was Bobby Clarke/Philly? Now Chicago seems to be in his comfort zone – Ruutu, Samsonov (granted that was a waiver claim and not a trade). Of course the Ruutu deal went down with a different general manager.
I for one would hate to see Cullen go, as he is hands down my favorite Cane and has been since he first stepped foot on the ice after the lockout. But I also understand that he is one of a very few assets that we have right now that other teams would be interested in dealing for, and actually having to give something of substance in return. And as someone said earlier, if Sutter continues to play at his current level and/or continues to improve, he basically slots into Cullen’s place in the lineup.
Corvo and Whitney seem to be the other tradeable assets, though I don’t think Whitney is going anywhere. Just my gut feeling. About the only place I could see him agreeing to go is back to Detroit. And I don’t see that happening. I think he retires a Hurricane.
Would hate to lose Corvo as well, but getting someone like Barker back from Chicago would (as someone else pointed out) make a move in that direction more likely.
Byfugilen is intriguing to me, but granted I know very little about the guy. Loved his size and physical/nasty presence in front of the net during last year’s playoffs. Remember thinking on several occasions how much I wished the Canes had someone like that on the roster. But admittedly that was a small sample size and I’m not familiar with his play over the long haul.
I’ll hope that Matt sticks around but would not be surprised to see him go. Either way, I’ll continue to sport my #8/Cullen jersey with pride.
-m
by UTTRmartin on Nov 16, 2009 6:46 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
and Danny Richmond for Anton Babchuk
GM of CanesCountry.com
by Bob Harwood Waeghe on Nov 16, 2009 10:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Cullen
Our family is made up of avid hockey fans. For what it’s worth (which is less than zero), we debated the pros and cons of trading Cullen over takeout Chinese dinner and the consensus was that the Hurricanes would regret trading him. He is one of the very solid and underrated Hurricanes. We remembered how much the Hurricanes missed Cullen’s play and quiet leadership when he signed with the Rangers. Still, if I had to guess, I am guessing another team is going to make an offer for Cullen that Jim Rutherford simply can’t refuse.
by abramsdoug on Nov 16, 2009 7:45 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
While I recognize that Cullen is a solid player and a fan favorite. The question is: do you keep Cullen this season (which probably won’t result in anything) and let him sign for more elsewhere or trade him for something. I think you have to get something for him. If Brind’Amour could be moved then resigning Cullen becomes possible, but that’s not very likely.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 8:02 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Cam Barker
Cam Barker was #6 on the Top 10 plays of the week on Versus tonight.
A run down the right side of the ice, chipping through a player on the way (like Cole used to successfully do, instead of merely trying now).
Big, fast, stick-handling his way right to the goalie’s kitchen, where he just roofed it straight up and under the crossbar.
Yes, I know there are inconsistencies, but the talent was evident.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 8:13 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Knowing that next year will officially be a rebuilding year, Cullen for Barker make sense. PK will be spending less than this year. With Pitkanen, Gleason, and Alberts the only signed experience players: that leaves 4 D spots open. I could see Rodney (this a 50 percent raise) and McBain as top 6 and Carson as the 7th. That leaves an open slot – a young defender with some experience and has potential. Sounds a lot like Barker. Also, the defense cap hit would be almost $2M less than the current group.
by PackPride17 on Nov 16, 2009 8:32 PM EST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Time is on the Canes side
The farther the season goes along, the more valuable Cullen becomes. As much as I would hate to trade him — he is clearly our second-best center, behind Staal,and he’s got the maturity that Staal doesn’t have yet — can we get equal value for him? Will he sign with someone else as a UFA next year? In the Canes current salary situation, yes, so getting something for him would be a plus. However, who replaces his offense? Not Boychuk. And as much as I like Jussi, he’s not a 2nd-line center. It’s a conundrum, and hopefully JR can solve it.
The sad thing is, if the Canes move closer to a *cough*playoff*cough* spot, Cullen becomes more valuable. His value peaks to other teams just as his value peaks for the Canes. Seems obvious, but it’s the Catch-22 that teams face trying to trade value-for-value. Trading Cullen now will get the team less than trading him closer to the deadline. Conversely, if the team lingers near the bottom of the Eastern conference, he becomes worth less. JR’s gotta work that min-max solution with way too many variables. Of course, the team may decide that the season is over and it’s time to dump salary and get picks or prospects or whatever, and start working towards next year. I don’t see that happening unless the team is still in last place come December 1.
by Gillimus on Nov 16, 2009 8:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Very true that he who is time-constrained, loses. But, Chicago may be the time-constrained trading partner here, not JR, for all the reasons you listed.
We can wait. They may not be able to wait. I don’t know the details, but saw that one of their centers (#2 center?) is out for at least four months. That’s a pretty big hole to fill with field-promoted talent and maintain position for the playoff run they want to make.
by Elsker on Nov 16, 2009 8:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
AND a said replacement is a FA after this year and there by not a cap issue going into next year..
I’m gonna have to go with Elskers view. I think this deal is to our advantage, to Cullens advantage and to the BH’s advantage. Whatever player we get in return is gonna hate it this year, but if there is potential, I think this team has it as much as anyone we’d get in return for Cully…
Many ways to look at it. Only time will tell.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
by Paladin6 on Nov 16, 2009 9:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would hate to see Cullen go, but that is a part of what goes on in a crappy season. Would like to see some value come back our way, but this isn’t a 30+ goal scorer here. I’m not totally convinced we could net Cam Barker or Sharp in a deal like this.
Only time will tell here. I will be pissed if they trade him… I just bought a Cully jersey a few months back :(
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
by Ivan459 on Nov 16, 2009 10:13 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Welcome to my world – I got to wear my Stiller jersey to one (1!!!) game before he got traded.
by Andrea's evil twin on Nov 16, 2009 11:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
got to ask why you bought it then.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 17, 2009 7:22 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I bought it before christmas, it just took them that long to customize it.
by Andrea's evil twin on Nov 17, 2009 8:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wear it with pride. He was one of THE most important pieces in that magical year of which I will not name so as not to potentially anger the Hockey Gods.
by drifterscape on Nov 17, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
There are no Hockey Gods
if they exist, they are an impotent lot and only deserve derision and scorn.
May they take long walks with lead ankle bracelets off of short piers.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
by lcd2you on Nov 17, 2009 9:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve got a feeling that nothing is going to happen until Staal comes back. But Cullen’s salary gone would definately give management some breathing room.
I’d trade him for either Buff or Barker, although Barker’s got more upside.
by Caniac1026 on Nov 17, 2009 9:57 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
New draft pick target?
Not sure where else to put this right now, other than this thread, but here’s a new potential draft pick to fantasize about: Plymouth Whaler center Tyler Seguin.
According to this article posted at the NHL site moments ago, Central Scouting has bumped Tyler Seguin above Taylor Hall on the OHL prospects list.
Talk about some homegrown talent.
by Elsker on Nov 17, 2009 10:35 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Top Three Prospects at Forward
Any of the top three, Taylor Hall, Tyler Seguin, and Karill Kabanov would make a tremendous difference for the Hurricanes. Add a young power forward via trade or RFA/UFA signing and the Hurricanes have the makings of an excellent team for years to come.
by abramsdoug on Nov 17, 2009 12:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
More on Tyler Seguin
Found this interesting blog item:
by Elsker on Nov 17, 2009 11:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Four Words
Igor Knayzev Nikos Tselios
by drifterscape on Nov 17, 2009 12:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Yes, indeed. But, not picks made under the Marshall Johnston / “brain trust” era, so hopefully we’re better at this than we used to be.
Plus, doubt we’ll be picking a Russian prospect anytime soon or will be picking down in the teens, where doubt begins to creep into the picture as to whether or not they will make it in the NHL.
by Elsker on Nov 17, 2009 2:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

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