Trade Day Recap - Salary Dump Successful
by Bob Wage on Mar 3, 2010 6:43 PM EST
149 comments
The Carolina Hurricanes had a very busy day. Let's take a quick look at what did they accomplished.
Players cut loose:
Aaron Ward, Scott Walker, Joe Corvo, Andrew Alberts, Stephane Yelle, and Harrison Reed. That gives the Canes salary cap relief of almost 9 million this season and 1.3 million next season. Jim Rutherford said that these moves, along with the Wallin and Cullen earlier trades, will save the team about two million in cash the rest of this year.
Reed was under-performing in the AHL. Ward, Yelle, Corvo, and Walker were all unrestricted free agents at year end and they probably will not be back.
Trading Andrew Alberts was a bit of a surprise, but Jim Rutherford said that the defenseman's salary hit next season of 1.3 million, was too high for what he brought to the table.
Alberts led the team with 178 hits, which is rated at 13th best in the NHL. He also had the best +/- on the team with a +7. Next highest on the team is Tim Gleason with 134 hits.
It's understandable why Carolina was trying to dump salary. The year has been a disappointment and revenue is down. But what assets did the Canes get in return?
Justin Pogge: The goalie has just seven NHL games under his belt, all with Toronto in 2008-09. His record with the Leafs was 1-4-1 with a GAA of 4.35 and his save percentage was .844. In 165 games in the AHL he is 83-63-14 with a GAA of 2.69 and a save percentage of .906.
His acquisition was important because according to Rutherford, Justin Peters and Manny Legace are the only healthy goalies within the franchise at the moment. Is Pogge an important cog for the future? That remains to be seen.
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Brian Pothier: The defenseman has been injury prone and comes with a healthy price tag of 2.5 million. The Capitals were against the salary cap and probably needed to shed this salary to make room for Corvo. He only played 9 games last year and just 38 the year before. He is unrestricted at the end of the year and most likely will not be re-signed.
_____
Oskar Osala: The big Finnish forward might be the best acquisition of the day for Carolina. His 6'4 frame brings nice size and he scored 23 goals and 14 assists for the powerful Hershey Bears in 2008-09 and has 14 goals and 13 assists in 53 games so far this season.
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Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll: McNicoll appears to be fodder as the undrafted forward has scored five goals and has eight assists in 45 games so far this season in the AHL. Although he did score over 100 points in the QMJHL last year.
The key word here is "undrafted".
Apparently, the Canes gave up on their third round pick in 2006, Harrison Reed as he was thrown in the deal with Yelle.
_____
The Canes also picked up a second round draft pick in 2011, a third rounder, a fourth, a sixth, and a seventh for 2010. Combine these with the two second rounders obtained for Niclas Wallin and Matt Cullen, and the Canes will be very busy this June.
The team will be making three picks in the second round in the coming draft and has two for next year. Here is a look at the franchises past second round picks and the number of games they played in the NHL.
- 1997 - Brad DeFauw - 9
- 1998 - Kevin Holdridge - 0
- 1999 - Brett Lysak - 2
- 2000 - Ryan Bayda - 179
- 2001 - Mike Zigomanis - 189
- 2002 - Jesse Lane - 0
- 2003 - Danny Richmond - 49
- 2004 - Justin Peters - 3
- 2005 - Nate Hagemo - 0
- 2006 - Jamie McBain - 0
- 2007 - Drayson Bowman -1
- 2008 - Zac Dalpe - 0
You can see that it is pretty much a crap shoot, they could get a decent player but they might not. But with multiple second rounders, at least their chances for success are better. Or perhaps they can combine picks and upgrade?
The biggest name of the trade deadline, Ray Whitney was not traded. I will have another article and a poll up about that, later tonight.
Do you consider the day to be a success?
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I was hoping for another first. I felt they could have gotten that for Corvo. But getting a first from WAS would not have done us much good anyway. I guess Osala will be the best pickup here, but is he still a true “down the road” player? If so, then, as with the draft picks, this won’t help us till 3-5 years down the road.
Doesn’t bode to well for next year. Sounds like this is more of a rebuilding team now. Since we didn’t get really any NHL caliber players back, next year might just be worse than this year. Perhaps.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
Osala
I’m no expert but I have played a little hockey and I’ve seen Oskar play in Hershey a few times. He’s easy to see out on the ice with that 6’4" frame and from all I’ve seen he is a prospect that could move up sooner rather than later. Like I said, I’m no expert but it wouldn’t surprise me to see him up at least a handful of times already next year. Pretty excited to see what he can bring. He’s a pretty good fan favorite in Hershey.
by DomBooneCaniac on Mar 3, 2010 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
From what I’ve seen scowering (sp) the net I like him. He seems to use his size to his advantage (not much of a fighter, but plenty of fight clips out there). I’m very excited about him. We need a guy his size. I think this might be a dimond in the rough. I know its early but thats what prospects are for.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:27 PM EST up reply actions
Osala Interview
http://theahl.com/chat-transcript-oskar-osala-p132192
Here is an interview with Osala that is interesting and worth reading.
I’m very bullish on this trade, thinking it is indeed Osala that drove the deal, moreso than the pick.
We have an excellent Finnish prospect nurturing environment here with our Finnish core elements, and you just cannot teach size like a 6’4".
Second-rounder is great, and probably will be bundled for a first. But, Osala is a find.
MORE SISU
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
by LTD on Mar 3, 2010 8:33 PM EST up reply actions
I gave him a B. Other than trade Whitney, he did everything I thought we needed. The playoff talk was silly and we weren’t going to be close next year either. You don’t go from oldest team in the league to cup contender in one season. Next year we won’t be very good either, but at least we’re started getting rid of the dead weight.
Tim, Joni and Carson are a solid foundation for an NHL blueline. I expect us to sign a veteran d-man in the offseason and mix in some of the Albany (Charlotte) talent. Rodney seems ready right now and Harrison can do in a pinch if McBain and Borer aren’t ready yet.
Osala sounds like he could flourish under the tutelage of his fellow Finns and I like the multiple 2nd rounders we’ll have.
If I’m not mistaken we’re still in the mix for a top 3 pick in the draft, which could possibly land us an NHL-ready prospect.
Now with that being said, anything other than a one year deal for Ray and I will change my chipper mood…
Still not a crook!
PS. I’m off to build a bar, so I won’t be back to argue these points until a little later, but don’t let that stop the yelling! ;-)
Still not a crook!
Build a bar?? where? need help? I work for cheap. We could even arange a trade of sorts.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:29 PM EST up reply actions
Building one for the Farmhouse on Hilsborough street (the bar, not the frat). It’s pretty much done now, but thanks for the offer. Got it assembled, sanded and stained tonight. Now just gotta see if it needs another coat of stain and then finish up the supports.
Also, on March 19th a buddy and I are having a fundraiser there for backpack buddies. NC State will be on spring break that week, so the big kids will have free reign. Come by and hang out, we’ll have karaoke!
Still not a crook!
I just don’t like that all these 2nd rounders won’t make a difference for another 3 or 4 years.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
It depends on what we do with them, but that is the name of the game. Basically these picks help us restock what we are about to take form the minors. so…
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:30 PM EST up reply actions
I’m very surprised that Whitney did not get traded and Alberts did. I really hope that Whitney just wants to re-sign here, that’s the best option now. The rest of the year should be for testing the blue line and the goalies we have.
Oh man would we all be mad if he turn down a contract here for somewhere eles. i doubt he would but…. that would be the ultimate poke in the eye.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:33 PM EST up reply actions
Jim Rutherford Interview
http://www.wralsportsfan.com/hurricanes/audio/7158001/
It is worth listening to Jim Rutherford’s interview. He explains his thinking and why he decided not to trade Ray Whitney.
I think it was a BS excuse so the fan base didn’t get mad at Ray. I’m dropping the Bullshit card on the table on this one. It’s is the right thing for him to say, I’m not saying he should tell the truth about it, but I think its obvious.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:58 PM EST up reply actions
I think people who speak with Whitney and Rutherford have a very different impression of the reasons why Whitney is held in high regard by the team and the organization. The Whitneys hosted a dinner where attendees had purchased raffle tickets and my wife, my son, and I attended after my wife’s ticket was selected. I was very impressed with Ray Whitney’s loyalty to the Hurricanes organization. I would be very surprised if Ray Whitney does not re-sign with Carolina. I’ve heard Whitney interviewed several other times and he identifies himself as a Carolina Hurricane. I can see why people could reach different opinions from me; but I am confident in my own mind that Jim Rutherford was saying what he truly felt. I believe Ray Whitney will become a coach for the Hurricanes directly after ending his playing career.
All this talk about how bad the trade day has been, but all of you folks keep forgetting that we are going to make the playoffs this year.
Have you seen my playoff tickets?
Dude we need to get together I have this amazing piece of hot property for sale… nobody else believes me but you apparently have a knack for seeing what nobody else does…
is it that ocean front property you tried selling me when i met you in arizona? hotchips you should definatly take it. I hear he also has a bridge for sale?
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 8:34 PM EST up reply actions
Have you read these comments today? People going off the deep end about what didn’t happen, fights breaking out, people asking for other posters address so they can come beat the crap out of them over their remarks. It’s crazy in this room today. I just prefer to look at the positive and if you break it down into 7 games of going 5-2, 5-2, and 5-1 or something similar it doesn’t sound that far fetched.
Have you seen my playoff tickets?
by hotchipsnsalsa on Mar 3, 2010 8:58 PM EST up reply actions
YES IT DOES!!!! IT SOUNDS VERY FAR FETCHED ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE SCHEDULE.
Do not doubt the pimp hand.
Quick stats
I’m not going to belabor this point. I’ll be done after this.
Take a look at this: The canes are 11-3 in the last 14. If they go 16-4 over the last twenty that will make for a record of 27-7 and give them 54 points out of 68. Project that over a season and it comes to 129 points.
Now, add to it that the Canes now have 57 points and going 16-4 only puts them at 89. The cut off the last few years has been in the low to mid 90’s. So, even if the Canes do go 16-4, even if they do rack up 54 of a possible 68 points over the final 34 games of the season the team can still very easily come up short.
Do not doubt the pimp hand.
I’m starting to think most people are just wishing. There is no logical way we can make the playoffs, I know its hard to accept, but it is so.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
I think that if we did make the playoffs… We would definitely win the Cup. At that point we would be have around a 29-5 in 2010, I think that would qualify as the hottest team going into the playoffs.
lol, my whole point is that people have taken this season as a loss and I would have to say that the majority believe that getting one or two more players is going to jump us right to the top for next year. People were so upset with Whitney, JR, and whatever else they didn’t like about todays outcome I just didn’t get what they expected. Some even want the team to continue losing X many games just to get a number 1 draft pick. I just don’t see it that way. Everyone has their own expectations and if thinking getting a number one draft pick is going to change everything then that’s ok, however, my belief is that you have to play for now and let the future take care of itself.
Someone on NHL Live a month ago said they thought the cut off line would be 87 points this year in the East. So going by that statement we are mathmatically still in it so whether it is wishful thinking or not you play the game to win otherwise what’s the point? And if I want to believe we still have a cahnce then that doesn’t mean i am smoking something or will buy a swamp for my property. It only means I will focus on the positives and I want this team to do well to finish out the season.
Have you seen my playoff tickets?
by hotchipsnsalsa on Mar 3, 2010 10:57 PM EST up reply actions
Some even want the team to continue losing X many games just to get a number 1 draft pick.
Ok I admit, that was me. Maybe not the first overall but atleast top 3. Though I’d rather see one of the top two overal picks.
The property thing was said in jest, I think the fact of the matter is most of the emotions here today are based on what the expectations are for THIS season.
People like myself wanted to see anyone go if it was a smart deal (slight exageration). Some people think we can still make the playoffs, so they were probably upset a little about Corvo or Alberts (though these did sting a bit for me). Based on our current “lot in life”, I think we are better off today than the day we traded Nicky Wallin. I also think we are better of today than we were yesterday. I look at things with an overly pragmatic stance sometimes, but we have to think with our heads not our hearts. I think JR did that.
Though, I still don’t know why Erik Cole is on the team.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:30 PM EST up reply actions
If Cole were a UFA...
…he’d be gone. But no one wants his contract for next year.
I expect we’ll shop him over the summer (Jokinen’s development as a linemate for Staal makes #26 very expendable), but I think he winds up staying right here until at least next year’s deadline.
That 17-year-old Hokie sitting in the rafters in Greensboro didn't see any of this coming.
I really wasn’t expecting him to go until I heard boston might want him. I really don’t care eaither way. The things that maters to me are the core guys get better at certain things (staal continues to grow,Jussi keeps scoring, ruutu shoots more often, etc) and more importantly the youngsters get some time up.
Though its crazy how short a true power forwards career can be. Esp. when playing against the likes of Orpik…that prick.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 4, 2010 12:08 AM EST up reply actions
Or-prick?
See now giving Cole away for a 7th round pick I could see as a valid salary dump. I disagree with Bob on this dump as a success. The 9 Million is a big heaping, stinking, steaming stack of goat crap. If it woould of been done at the beginning of the year, then sure. Now they saved about 6 bucks. Remember most of the salary has already been paid. This trade action was anemic at best and I think pathetic, like 80% of everything else JR has done this year.
We have a wealth of young players, so that end is covered. I can’t fathom why some other players were not traded. Was Seids tried to be gotten? This team lacks alot of things, mainly it lacks grit and a leader. While Staal is hard to argue with for points sometimes the chance of a Gordie Howe hat trick is almost impossible. See David Booth for a gritty leader. Then trading Scotty Walker, while I see it from a certain perspective, that leaves Staal pretty alone. Outside of Gleason who is on the ice to drop the gloves if somebody crushes the captain? Albe’s gone too. He at least blocked punches with his face.
JR has once again emaciated the team. As for rebuilding, by the very definition that means something has to come into the team and make something grow. I see a huge squandered opportunity here.
While Josh is correct in that the summer will bring changes, I think there was ample opportunity here. After JR’s fiasco last summer, the pissed away opportunity here, I don’t have reason to hold out hope or faith this summer will bring much.
While not a big fan of losing to get a draft pick, something is better than the almost nothing we have gotten so far.
A.
Errors of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.
He who knows nothing is closer to the truth than he whose mind is filled with falsehoods and errors
We must indeed all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately
I don’t really get why we traded Albe who WAS our biggest hitter. I guess the upstairs suits weren’t happy with his play. How is dumping Corvos salary but picking up a crippled Pothier wash out, don’t get that either.
WHITNEY…….I said he wouldn’t go and guess what he didn’t.
JR once again said half the team would not be back next year, he’s right………this truley starts the rebuild.
Silver Medal- "In our business it's winning the whole thing. In five years no one will give a damn. It's who won."- Ron Wilson
Pothier apparently was just a return of salary the Canes needed to take on to make the deal with WAS. Everyone seems to agree he isn’t here for anything else.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
true, but in Potsy, Carolina picks up a guy who most of us here in DC can’t stop gushing about. He’s an absolute pro, one of the most generous, kind-hearted people in hockey. He’s a go-to guy for the media no matter how the game goes.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Walker and Corvo (OT)
It sounds like Walker had a great first game with the Caps. He is such a great person and he was under-rated by the commentators. Walker has been battling injuries, but he is absolutely the kind of player who will help the Caps. Good for him. He really deserves the best. Corvo, too, is vastly superior to the reports coming from a number of the commentators. Many were dogging Corvo and it was clear they had no seen him play at Carolina — where he logged tremendous minutes and played extremely well.
Oskar Osala
Thats one BIG forward, that looks like a winner. What the hell let him play a few games this year for the Canes, can’t hurt.
Silver Medal- "In our business it's winning the whole thing. In five years no one will give a damn. It's who won."- Ron Wilson
I don't think Rutherford is done...
… who says he can’t package a pick & player, or a couple of those second rounders – or even that seventh – to pick up some decent players after the season, or before the draft – or even to move up in the draft? Imagine packaging Cole & a second & a seventh to someone for a SECOND ist round pick, for example. It does not end here – there are several possibilities in the future. Time will tell.
The only player I was really sorry to see go was Alberts – but I undestand it with a 1.3 mil hit to the cap next year.
We are going to have to trade some players if we are going to turn over half the lineup,lol.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:00 PM EST up reply actions
Entirely correct. Turned six expiring contracts into a double-fistful of draft picks and prospects, which are the liquid currency of the trade market, as you described, in addition to feeding our talent pyramid from the base.
All without crippling the team, even for this season. The beat goes on.
I'll be shocked if we don't do a deal at the draft.
Either to acquire another first-rounder or a roster player.
That 17-year-old Hokie sitting in the rafters in Greensboro didn't see any of this coming.
Elsker as usual we disagree. This team has been crippled since the summer and JR took away what little heart was left.
That double fistful of crap picks will go just how far in the next three yrs?
A
Errors of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.
He who knows nothing is closer to the truth than he whose mind is filled with falsehoods and errors
We must indeed all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately
Exactly! Although I must admit, “OMG RAY DIDN’T GET US A 1ST ROUND, WE’RE SCREWED!” is certainly more dramatic.
by Raccoon Fink on Mar 3, 2010 11:36 PM EST up reply actions
I picked so-so.
On the plus side
+ AWard off the roster
+ Good return for Corvo
+ Another Finn :D
Neutral – Didn’t get a lot but we did right for two really good character guys
Yelle
Scotty Walker
On the minus side
- Losing A-Squared (even though my head understands, I still kinda liked him)
- No blockbuster deal for a Ray Whitney rental (and proved me wrong and canescup right)
Now that all being said, if I’d factored the return for Cully and Wallin into the mix, and factor in that JR did save real dollars this season and has some Pokemon cards he can play for the draft in June, I probably would have moved the overall trade event up to the “he done allright” category.
Which team was the big winner today? Seems this was a little more of a yawnfest than previous trade deadline days.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
all we really got was Oskar and a 2 round pick for 2011 but all we really gave up was 20 games of Joe Corvo being on the roster. At first I was disappointed, but I don’t know what eles we could have expected.
If we were to have gotten anything better than, some of us would have been mad we traded Whitney.
The only thing I regret is that we didn’t trade Corvo to Washington before they traded for Belanger.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:06 PM EST up reply actions
I’m so, so sorry. I know it won’t fit through the front door, but perhaps his ego will fit in the garage?
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
by LTD on Mar 3, 2010 9:45 PM EST up reply actions
Everything is what it is. We had no say in any trades made and none of us know what JR was offered in return for our guys. To me, the thing is, I think we all wanted something to hang our hat on after this disappointing season. The top pick was that earlier, but we’ve played our way out of that. I believe we are looking at the 4th or 5th overall pick now. The next thing was to get a certain player/prospect/high draft pick that gave us hope. We did not get any of those. If Whitney resigns, we should have a very good 1st line – but if he doesn’t, we really messed up. The best thing we got today was Osala or a 2011 2nd round pick, not exactly earth shattering.
Every trade deadline time, there are winners and losers. I guess we lost this time. Also, many of you said be patient, the best deals come at the deadline. Well, that didn’t work. Our best deals were done before the deadline. Sometimes being patient just leaves you standing out in the cold waiting. And its cold out there right now!
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 7:47 PM EST via mobile reply actions
That's like the Spanish Inquisition
Nobody sees it coming because of its stealth
That and its deviousness
Also the fanaticism of its followers
…….
If the guys and gals who brought you the financial meltdown deserve big bonuses, where do I sign up?
Good luck, Andrew!
I knew when I first saw that two-year contract ($0.85M/$1.3M) that he was on audition this season and had better be a diamond-in-the-rough to survive until that second contract year here.
Frankly, we can field third-pairing D-men for much less next season. It’s just business. But, as expected, he was a very tradeable asset and returned value (third rounder).
I liked him. Yet another “former Cane” to pull for when watching late-night hockey on Center Ice.
Had no such player on the Canucks. Do now.
I really liked Alberts and thought he had tremendous potential. I think it was less any mistakes he made than the development of Carson and the acquisition of Picard. I think Alberts will fit well with the Canucks.
He had a healthy plus/minus on a losing team and led the team in hits.
Solid third-pairing D-man. I agree it wasn’t because he was making mistakes or was even part of the problem. No complaints whatsoever.
We got good service for our part of the contract and he gets the whole contract value. It’s just that Part 2’s now in Vancouver (which is not such a bad city) and he’s now playoff bound.
And, I now have someone on the Canucks to watch other than those freakish Swedish twins. :-D
great outlook Elsker. That the way I’ll try to start looking at it. Though seeing Joe and Scotty in a Washington jersey is going to be tough.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:33 PM EST up reply actions
It was probably a blessing that the computer system at my job was down all day… I wouldn’t have gotten any work done….
I think JR did ok on the trades. I don’t see any of these guys we got playing for our team this season… The guy we got from Washington (forget his name) gets a concussion every time he sneezes….
I like the Finn…..
WTF on the goaltender…. (other than Paul Maurice thinks he may have met him in Toronto once).
He could have done worse though…. we could have ended the day w/ a million 3rd round draft picks… that would suck…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Mar 3, 2010 8:04 PM EST reply actions
And at the end of the day...
A big thank you goes to Mo for his bumbling to cause all of this. We should of been buyers this year.
I’m not sure how you can question the trades JR made. Obviously he took the best offer that was made. He is taking calls, not making them, he can negotiate but if the other team isnt biting then all he can do is decide whether to hold on to the player for the remainder of the year and let them walk in most cases or get something for them to rebuild with.
we see this EVERY YEAR FOLKS
Trade deadlines happen each year. you people expect miracles everytime we go thru this
Relax and enjoy the rest of our season maybe we’ll get on a hot run to the playoffs!?!
Was I hoping for a miracle, yes. Was I expecting one, no. What I was expecting was something that could help us next year. Were we going to get a 1st line player, no. But we should have been able to pull at least a prospect that could play in the NHL next season or an underperforming young player that needed a change of scenary. And while JR was just fielding calls, he could have made counter-offers. I still believe he could have at least packaged one of our 2nds and Corvo and possible received their 1st. I just feel more could of been done to improve next years team or at least get some prospects to replenish the A, that could potential fill-in at the NHL level in an emergency.
I know it sounds that way, but I’m not all gloom and doom. I just feel we missed some opportunities.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 9:02 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Picks will get moved at the draft. There’s no time for those kinds of moves today.
As for a prospect to play next year or a kid looking for a change of scenery the only realistic chip that could bring those things in today was Whitney.
Do not doubt the pimp hand.
the only realistic chip that could bring those things in today was Whitney.
exactly.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:09 PM EST up reply actions
As far as Whitney, JR is saying that he didnt receive an offer that he was comfortable making just to protect Whitney from any backlash. Whitney was supposedly the most sought after player leading up to today so I find it hard to believe that a team didnt offer a first and a prospect for him. If there were in fact no legit offers, it was because teams knew he was seeking a multi-year extension. I dont blame Ray for playing his hand but at the same time, if he’s gonna resign here, why not set the franchise up for success and possibly another run at the cup while he’s still on the team by accepting a trade.
Thats the thing I didn’t get. If he cared as much about the TEAM as we think he did he would have accepted the trade to LA and resigned in the offseason here. Nothing would change except he would be a little farther from his family for a bit. You might say I have no heart for saying that but think of this: if you were a kid would you rather 1) not see your dad as often for a month or so or 2) uproot your life in Raleigh North Carolina and MOVE to LA, have to meet new friends in a VERY STRANGE CITY, start at a new school and say goodbye to everything you’ve known for the past 5 years.
If he was willing to up root his family just so he can “hang on” for a little longer you can not throw the familly card at me.
I thought I would cool down about Ray, but so far the more I think about the more it seems he is not the guy we all thought he was. (which is fine, I realize most athletes are out for themselves, but don’t pretend to give a damn when all you care about is your bank account)
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:15 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe the last line was a bit much, but I think you guy get what I’m sayin.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 9:18 PM EST up reply actions
I really disagree that Whitney is out to maximize his income and is taking advantage of the Hurricanes’ loyalty. Whitney is very down to earth and anything but arrogant. Remember that not a single #1 pick was traded by any team this trade deadline. Teams had to decide if they wanted to give up a #1 pick for Whitney when in all likelihood he was going to re-sign with Carolina.
It is clear to me that Jim Rutherford had a goal in mind in terms of budget reduction and when he reached that point, he didn’t want to risk next season. People can obviously disagree with those decisions, but it is not accurate to cast Whitney as a greedy athlete who doesn’t care about the Hurricanes or this community. To the contrary, Whitney is devoted to his teammates and doesn’t want to quit on them. He has roots here in Raleigh and wants to be a part of the new Hurricanes. The easy route was to take the money and run. He decided he wanted to stick it out in tough times for the team.
I think I’ve made it clear that IMO we will eaither sign him or not come July 1. I’m not buying the “I just want to be a Hurricane jive”. Remeber he demanded an extention to move. That was the whole point.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:46 PM EST up reply actions
Keep in mind though that the terms of any deal to the Kings could have been him signing a contract with them. Maybe he wsa willing to go to the Kings without an extension, but the Kings weren’t willing to give up what the Canes wanted for a rental player.
A lot of people are assuming that Ray nixed the deal because it wasn’t 3 years, but keep in mind the Kings could have said we’ll offer you this for Whitney only if he signs a 1 year extension at which Ray could have said no because he only wants to sign a contract with a) the Canes b) a team at least remotely close to his family.
We really shouldn’t be mad at a guy for invoking his right of NTC. How many of you would reject a relocation package from work if it would save the company money and allow them to hire another person in your place? Smaller scale yes, but essentially the same principles.
Your first point was good. We don’t know, but I think the price what right. Look at ANY other player of Whineys value and see what they get EVERY year. I really don’t think the price was as high as you make it. LA has cap room now, but they are comming into a period where there budding superstars (they are stacked with talented youth imho) are starting to come into their second contract (like the pens a couple years ago). I don’t know if its likely they wanted to make sure he would be there another year bases soley on what they were giving up. anyway….
As to the other, it doesnt matter. We will eaither want him resigned at the end of the year or not. no matter what happends, if he goes if he stays its all the same. I think alot of people are not fully grasping the UFA aspect. July 1 he is no longer a Cane unless he is resigned before then. We resigned a few of our guys last year after July 1, so for a brief period they were not Canes eaither. I think trading Joe or Scotty or Cullen or even Ray would have any bearing on them signing next year.
I’m a team over player type of guy though, so I might be a little biased
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:44 PM EST up reply actions
Re: Whitney's Refusal
There are many ways to decipher why Whitney didn’t waive his no-trade. One thought that hasn’t been discussed is that his making an outlandish (in some people’s opinions) 3-year extension requirement indicated he was not interested in leaving the Canes period. It may have been his way of saying he still believed in the Canes making the playoffs this year and wanted to be a part of that MIRACLE with his teammates. It may have been his way of saying…. who knows why.
You get my point. We really don’t know. Let’s be positive about the situation. He’s been an outstanding player and is a quality guy (see below). Let’s hope we can resign him for next year at a reasonable cost and be thankful we still have him. I also believe I understand why some Canes fans are reacting negatively to his failure to go to LA. It’s because us fans feel we have shown allegiance to him and now we want him to do something for us to show his allegiance to us and he failed to do so. I’ve also felt this, but on letting myself settle down I realize most fans felt allegiance to him for how he performed on the ice and the glory he brought to Raleigh.
Re: quality guy. My son had cancer which he ultimately died from in 2006. He loved hockey. Whitney (as did many other Hurricanes and members of Hurricane staff and management) did many things for him including autographing memorbelia and personally interacting with him. I bring this up to point out that we need to understand these guys are not just hockey players out for a buck. They make big dollars only because they are the top 600 players in the world, i.e.; they are at the top of their profession. Let’s not make being that a fault. Throw in that the great things they do in the community and to me they earn the right to expect not questioning their allegience to the Canes.
by FoxtrotSierra on Mar 4, 2010 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
also whitney makes our rats/checkers better with his smarts
he’s our leader on and off the ice
GO CANES GO !!!
Staal may be captain...
But he still has a lot to learn. Looking when he first came back after injury, he had a short temper a few games. He still has a little growing up to do, and having a veteran Assistant Captain around to give him tips and advice is not a bad thing. Especially if Brind’Amour gracefully retires after this year.
Thank you Jim Rutherford and Ray Whitney for working together for Ray to stay a Hurricane! :)
I guess you think Staal should have given up his 1st class seat to Gleason when they traveled from Vancouver to Toronto. I guess that would have made him a good captain. :)
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by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 11:50 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
same same maybe a surprise ending..
I am not displeased with today’s results. I don’t know about you, but the team does not feel much different than the one that is on a hot streak. The 1st line stays in tact. We stay about the same on D since A Ward has been a net liability and Corvo was out for a lot of the turnaround. We now have a chance to call up some of the Rats. I am excited about tomorrow and the remaining 20 games. If we go 16-4 (two 8 and 2 runs….seems familiar), we have a shot at the playoffs. Forget about Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin. We are out of that sweepstakes. Besides…who want to root for a self tanked team like Toronto or EDM?
Exnihilo
Having cooled down
I like what Rutherford did with what he had to work with. He moved out a lot of pieces that weren’t coming back or weren’t very valuable. He got some return on those pieces, nothing earth shattering, but worth it. My biggest worry is that it won’t matter too much having not traded Ray Whitney. The forwards are still good, but the defense is not what I’d call playoff caliber. Not to mention there are still a lot of players signed through next season.
I hope there are more deals to come come draft day.
Do not doubt the pimp hand.
JR got some pretty high draft picks relative to other moves that were made this year IMO. A 2nd for Wallin and a 4th for Ward (a player no one wanted on waivers). Pretty good return for 3rd pairing D-men.
Well now...
what’s done is done…and with 3 2nd round picks, a 3rd,4th,6th & 7th…the canes ought ot be sitting in a good posistion for the draft and beyond…and finally the look on Ward’s face reminded me of a kid who got caught playing doctor with the preachers kid…on one handci felt bad for him, but i feel it was his own undoing. sure players have slumps in many sports, but ward’s…I’m not sure what his problem was/is…but for all the players traded…i wish them all the best…and hopefully a “ring” for scotty…
Relax !! Even Micro Wave Popcorn takes time !! Go Canes !!
Just pointing out some statistics.
1st round picks that play over 200 NHL games – 63 percent.
2nd round picks that play over 200 NHL games – 25 percent.
3rd round and beyond picks that play over 200 NHL games – 12 percent.
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by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 10:38 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Another Analysis
Each second round pick as a 25% chance of playing 200 games. Three second round picks geometrically increase the chance that one of the three picks will play 200 games. It is the same if one were betting in vegas on a 1 in 4 chance, but one were given three spins of the wheel to achieve that one in four chance.I believe the math works that with 3 chances there is a 75% statistical likelihood that one will achieve the 200 game mark.
Or you could look at it like – 1 or 4 players picked in the 2nd round actually play in the NHL. That means we could choose the 3 that won’t make it. :)
I’m just having some fun!
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by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 10:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
After I cooled off….I still stand by my comments about Mo, but all-in-all not a bad return and solid reasoning (e.g. Walker a solid chance at a Cup, Yelle goes back home, etc.).
Still confused about Alberts but we want to be on the cheap again…
Can’t blame MO for Staal’s injury. I still think that was the biggest reason for the early season swoon, but that’s just my opinion.
Do not doubt the pimp hand.
Or Erik Cole getting his leg broken in the second game of the season.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
by LTD on Mar 3, 2010 9:50 PM EST up reply actions
And we haven’t even mentioned the two nasty skate cuts.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
by LTD on Mar 3, 2010 9:52 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, I didn’t even mention Scott Walker missing 29 games.
And old what’s-his-name missing 15 games with a separated shoulder. Plus the, uh, early-season suspension.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
JR may have been thinking that Carson and Mcbain will fill out the 3rd pairing next year so he can get rid of the salary and use it to sign a top 4 FA. Or if he sees this as a true rebuild that will take multiple years, there’s no real reason to hold on to Alberts for one more year.
by Killswitch on Mar 3, 2010 9:29 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
To be honest, I do not see JR signing a big FA this offseason. That has never been his MO (pun intended), and we would not have the salary to do it, even with the dump today. Unless it is some big injury prone guy who can score (marian gaborik), I don’t see that happening.
I just don’t think that is a possibility, but you never know.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
Alberts
Jim Rutherford in his interview stated that he felt for what Alberts brought to the team $1.3 million was too expensive and that he would save money with Alberts’ replacement and use the savings to perhaps re-sign some players, i.e. Whitney, Corvo, or even Cullen. It is a rational approach even if counter-intuitive in some ways. I liked Alberts, but I did see him as having a somewhat limited upside.
My only reasoning for JR hanging us out to dry with a completely inadequate 2nd and 3rd Defensive pairings for the rest of the year is that he wants to lock up a top-3 draft spot. I’d be willing to guess no matter what pick he gets that he would try to trade up for Seguin.
It is sad the depth chart shows Pitkanen/Gleason together on the top pair. Behind Pitkanen, Gleason, and Carson… I don’t even think we have a 4th D strong enough to fill out a top 4 so I guess Pits/Gleason will just play 30 minutes a game.
Pothier and Picard are not top-4 D. Pothier has been a career 7th D and Picard looks to be at best right now a bottom pair guy. At this point I think McBain has a better shot than anyone else.
Selling Pothier short. At worse he’s a 7. He’s top-4 level, just can’t play him for 20 mins a night or he’ll get worse.
Ovechkin = Green Backs
by red army line on Mar 4, 2010 8:48 PM EST up reply actions
would it really surprise you if Mo actually played them 30 minutes a game?? It sure wouldn’t surprise me..
"That’s what happens when you suck" - Tim Gleason
TEACHABLE MOMENT
i have full confidence in our coaches Tom Rowe, Tom Barasso and Jeff Daniels in Albany
to teach our boys how to play strong fundamental defence who can deliver the offensive scoring when needed
btw they’re not gonna Keep pits and gleason together all year or even next year
This Google search went much smoother than “nakey boy”, I mean Tlusty..nice
"That’s what happens when you suck" - Tim Gleason
INJURIES/Season Stats
I have been Keeping some stats over the season-
There has not been a single game this season where all players have been able to play.
Ten players (key ones) have had significant injuries. Six of those are our
“younger players”
Ten players have been well all season (Whitney,Sammy, TommyK, Sutter Jussi, Brindy-
——-and the other four we traded—Cullen, Wallin, Alberts, and A. Ward)
Injury is no excuse—-but are not the fault of the coach either. In this magnitude, it cripples a team, whether it is a “young” team or an “old” one.
Hoping for a better season next year no matter who is on the team. We will not go far
if half the team is only able to compete part of the time !!!!
I know—no excuse.
GO CANES! Go Heels!
I enjoyed reading all the comments. One thing to remember is that if we did not get something for these players we were faced with either losing them for nothing at the end of the season or paying eacxh of them MORE money next season. Of all the players we shed I believe Yelle was the most valuable to the Hurricanes. He played his role well and was extremely cheap. Corvo has a great shot, but doesn’t get it on net very often and is soft on defense. Aaron Ward is getting up there in age. The fact that we were able to sign Alberts this year for $800,000 shows you that he was not much in demand around the league. Cullen, well personally I would like to see us resign him next year if the dollars are right. You can’t overpay for a center who will be your third line center.
I like the idea with going with younger players who have NHL ability. The past two seaons are team’s performance on the ice improved when we called up youngsters (because we had to) and put them in the line-up. They make mistakes, but they overcome them with their hustle and desire. Next year I expect us to be a playoff team from the start.
I also think Jeff Daniels is really preparing the youngsters well. For example, look at the penalty minutes the youngsters have had this year (Carson, Sutter, Dwyer, Tilusy, etc.). They are all under 10 minutes. They know how to play good hockey and don ’t hurt you by being in the box very often.
Daniels
I also think Jeff Daniels is really preparing the youngsters well. For example, look at the penalty minutes the youngsters have had this year (Carson, Sutter, Dwyer, Tilusy, etc.). They are all under 10 minutes. They know how to play good hockey and don ’t hurt you by being in the box very often.
Every call up, I mean every call up that we have had from Jeff Daniel’s team has fit right into the system and performed as you described. When Jake says they’re ready to come up and play, they’re ready to come up and play.
Jeff’s the perfect mentor for installing an org’s system, especially one he executed well. 262 games for the Canes with only 18 penalty minutes, just like the product he’s delivering.
Very nice points guys. I think we are in great shape with our youth. Nice tidbit about pims
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:54 PM EST up reply actions
I knew we weren’t going to get a lot, but I guess I was hoping we would. I seriously thought that we would have ended the day with 1 really good prospect/young player, a late 1st round pick, and maybe a few other prospects. I also thought Ray would be gone.
As seen from my previous FanPosts, I feel more comfortable with prospects than draft picks. I was just really hoping we would get Hickey from LA. I still think he is going to be a very good all-around defenseman and probable top pairing guy. I also really liked Caputi and when he was moved to Toronto, I thought that meant we would get a real good return for Ray.
Everything here will eventually calm down, but we still need to improve areas of this team with talented youth. The defense needs at least 1 quality player. We still need a 3rd line center and need to improve our AHL depth.
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by PackPride17 on Mar 3, 2010 11:09 PM EST via mobile reply actions
I agree with the Dman and unless we get a top flight winger to replace Jussi on the top line we will need a 3rd liner. I doubt Zach will be able to take that over right away (plus I think he will end up as a winger in the top 6 in the next year or two with Staal and Sutter at center)
I wouldn’t mind seeing a 2.5 to 3.5m/yr guy to replace Corvo (or us just resign Corvo)
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 3, 2010 11:57 PM EST up reply actions
Osala and Pothier
Osala is a big winger who could play in the NHL now and probably would be if he were in many other organizations. The Caps are very deep with big wingers who can score, kind of hard to win a spot when you are competing for a spot with Ovechkin, Semin, Knuble and Laich who are all proven 20+ goal scorers, plus Fleischmann and Fehr who are both going to score 20+ goals this season and had solid seasons last year. Osala plays well on the best team in the AHL and has the size that the Canes are missing on the wing. He probably still needs to get stronger, though.
Pothier was the best defenseman on the Caps in the 2006-2007 season, which, while not saying much, is at least something. He is a good #4 – 6 defenseman, has become pretty solid in the Defensive zone, makes a pretty good pass, can quarterback a powerplay if need be, and is actually one of the better hip checkers in the league. You don’t want him playing more than about 16 – 18 minutes a game, though, as he seems to wear down and gets a bit sloppy when he plays too many minutes. I think he is a bit more steady guy than Corvo and is a very good skater.
I hope you are right on both fronts. Thats what I wanted to hear. I had that feeling already with Osala, but wasn’t quite as optimistic about Pothier. But then again, I really how well he plays isn’t as important as it nornally would be. Maybe he turns into something for another couple years? If not his contract is up at the end of the year. Someone has to fill some minutes.
by CarolinaCanes on Mar 4, 2010 12:00 AM EST up reply actions
Osala is a bit of a project still. The skills and size are there and you can see them when he was skating for the Bears, but when he was here in DC, he seemed to lack some of the confidence it takes to be an NHL player. Part of that might be that the Caps don’t have any Finns on the roster at the current time, but I think a lot of that was nerves. If he pans out like he should, he’ll be a 20-25 goal a year guy with some physical presence.
His defense needs some work too, but that’s just getting him to step up his effort. Being successful defensively in Hershey isn’t the same as being successful defensively in DC. I think he can learn what it takes and will adjust. The Caps can’t afford to give hiim 20 games to adjust his play, but the Canes can right now….
Let's go Caps!
Apparently I've been posting wrong...
Now that I’ve recapped the rest of the trade day fallout, I realize the error of my ways.
Instead of saying what others have said in their elegant prose, I’ll give my own insightful commentary:
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