Carolina Powerplay Reaches New Depths: Bruins 4, Hurricanes 2
by Bob Wage on Apr 10, 2010 7:30 PM EDT
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PrintThe Boston Bruins scored an NHL record, three shorthanded goals on the same Carolina powerplay as they defeated the Hurricanes at TD Garden on Saturday afternoon by a score of 4-2.
The Bruins came out on fire in the opening period and controlled much of the play at the beginning. But the Canes held on and Cam Ward was solid as he made 18 saves on 18 shots to start things off. Later in the period, the Hurricanes were able to generate some offense of their own and put 14 shots on goal.
At the start of the second period and with the visitors on the powerplay, the Bruins took a big lead in the game as they knocked in three straight goals within a minute and four seconds. The three shorthanded goals scored during the same powerplay set a new NHL record.
But just like they have done all season long, the Canes battled back and never gave up.
Erik Cole scored his 11th of the season on a wrap around chance and Patrick Dwyer wristed in a beautiful shot late in the period to bring the team within a goal.
The third period was a bit more tightly contested as neither team could light the lamp until the end. The Canes pulled Ward with less than two minutes to go to give themselves an advantage, but the result was much like their previous powerplay. Milan Lucic skated a loose puck into the Carolina zone and buried the empty netter to put away the game.
It probably seemed like a fitting an end for some fans as the Canes surrendered an inordinate number of empty net goals during their losing streak earlier in the season.
Boston clinched a playoff spot with the win. They will have to wait to see where they are seeded.
The Hurricanes will clean out their lockers and have their exit interviews on Monday.
Game Notes:
- The line of Samson, Dwyer, and Bowman looked very good. They were buzzing in the Carolina zone and created several scoring chances. Dwyer and Samson each had a team high five shots on goal. Bowman had four.
- Casey Borer led the team with three blocked shots. He also chipped in with three hits.
- The Hurricanes were credited with 19 hits and were led by Jay Harrison who had four.
- Cam Ward probably wishes he had a couple of those shorthanded goals back, but he had a very strong opening period and ended up stopping 38 of 41 shots for the game.
While the season is officially over for the Hurricanes, we will be as active as ever here on the blog. The River Rats are in the playoffs and we will certainly be keeping track of them. Cory, HM, and I will be making our end of season award choices this coming week, and we will also be writing up our annual exit reviews where readers get to grade how you think the players performed this year.
Of course, there will be plenty of offseason news to cover, mock drafts, prospect analysis, and unlimited discussion about next year's team. We will also have a few surprise interviews fans will surely enjoy.
And we will be watching and discussing the NHL playoffs. If people would like to continue the "open game threads" for certain events, we will keep doing that as well.
Canes Country will start off with an "open thread" during the draft lottery on Tuesday night. See you then!
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Good Game
Other then the 2minute total breakdown on the PP it was overall a good game for the Canes. We’ve seen that breakdown before, 2 years ago on the New Years Game vs the Islanders, it was 3-4 SHG during the game from what I recall.
It was nice to meet everyone from Canes Country, I’ll try posting more often and stop lurking as much.
thanks for coming to BYB. Good to meet you as well.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Powerless Play
As the season started, the Hurricanes power play was wretched. As the season ended, the power play reached new depths for the entire NHL. One of the most encouraging things about the rebuilt Hurricanes is that despite a power play that often was laughably bad, since January only the Washington Capitals had a better record. I can only imagine how good the Hurricanes will be once they master the art of the power play. That time can’t come soon enough for me — but perhaps in Helsinki, the new and renewed Hurricanes will unveil a lethal power play.
I agree, it’s much improved with uber potential, but it still feels as if a piece is missing. I liked Babs cannon on a PP to keep heads moving (attached or otherwise). I like the way Lidstrom just beats pucks to the net. Maybe McBadass is our guy? 3 shorty’s though is an epic breakdown of the whole team on the ice. It’s laughable and embarassing. If the team keeps as many kids on the roster as I hope (and feel that have earned a spot) there will be doozie breakdowns at times next year as they tweak trhemselves into a team. Though i expect nothing like that.
A
'09-'10 needed more than a spoonful of sugar, yuck.
Young hockey players, the future, the answer. Learn it, then live it.
I really hope to see Babchuk next year. If only for his last contract year, he would be a very cheap and powerful asset. JR doesn’t have to like him… Treat Babs like an asset, sign him, let him rack up 15 goals by the trade deadline and trade him for a pretty penny if we need to. Personally I wasn’t too impressed with Picard and I don’t see any real reason to re-sign him as an RFA. I think his rights may be in one of the trades we see.
I can take or leave Babs as an individual. I think he added a dynamic though. We need a threat from outside. We don’t have the net covered, yet. i think we may find more net vulturing next year.
A
'09-'10 needed more than a spoonful of sugar, felt like a broken glass and battery acid suppository.
Young hockey players, the future, the answer. Learn it, then live it.
Locked into 7th
With the Islanders losing tonight we are officially locked into the 7th to last spot in the NHL. The highest spot we can move into if we win the lottery would be 3rd. On Tuesday (the day of the Lottery) we will have a 4.7% chance of winning the Lottery and moving into 3rd.
The lowest pick we can possibly get in the lottery is the 8th Overall Pick. Tuesday we shall know for sure where we are picking, but as of tonight things are looking good.
Actually, in the unlikely event that someone in the 8th to 11th slots above us wins the lottery (see chart for ever-decreasing odds of doing so), then we would move back to 8th as they moved forward the maximum of four spots they can move.
We’ll know Tuesday evening.
You’re right, about possibly dropping to 8th. I also think he said that in the second paragraph.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions
That’s what late-night reading will do for you.
Yep, he had that possibility covered. At least I got the odds out there for the what if’ers to see.
Yep – thanks for that. That’s gonna be an exciting 30 secs on Tuesday eh?
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions
New depths. Excellent. And the replays across hockey media means we won’t be allowed to forget it soon. Almost blooper status.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 10, 2010 10:43 PM EDT reply actions
It had a surreal quality to it listening to Chuck K.
I was in the car driving back to Raleigh and was listening to Chuck K. struggle to find words for how incredibly bad that sequence was. I thought Paul Maurice in his post-game comments handled the situation perfectly. He let the defensemen shoulder the responsibility rather than putting the weight on Cam Ward. Still, it was a reverse miracle of sorts. The chances of that occurring are less than finding a $100 bill in a parking lot.
We kept thinking we were watching a re-play – WTF? again?. Heck – then when they re-played the 3rd, we thought there was a fourth. That’s how bizarre it was.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 10, 2010 11:08 PM EDT reply actions
Brian Dumoulin named to NCAA All-tournament team. That should help Ward feel better. BC shuts out Wisconsin 5-0.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 10, 2010 11:09 PM EDT reply actions
Do you think Domoulin with sign a contract? I feel that he will stay in college 1 more season, then sign and spend half a year in the A.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 10, 2010 11:17 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Dumoulin
I watched his shifts for this game, courtesy of DVR (HD broadcast, too!).
First of all, he’s huge. Second, he needs more baking before serving him up to the NHL.
Could use weight on that frame (only a freshman). Plus, he’s with a great college hockey program (just won the Frozen Four!) with an emphasis on defense.
It was probably the fact that Dumoulin was headed for BC that made JR feel good about drafting D in the second round. Can mature and develop with a good program until ready to transition to the AHL.
Next season? Maybe.
He was a monster on the forwards in the corners, completely smothering them till they coughed up the puck. (Something McBain said he wanted to gain strength to improve on). With the call hardly using names, it was really tricky to keep track of his outlet passes or other shot blocking unless his back was to the camera.
Clearly stay-at-home, but would you say like Jeff Schultz, 6-6, 230 lbs (paired w/the Caps Green and has similarly huge plus/minus – tops the league, 3 G, 20 A) as a style of player?
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 9:11 AM EDT up reply actions
He would will be terrific paired with an offensive-defenseman.
Rock-solid defensive instincts. Won the micro-battles on the boards, as you noted (mostly due to size, but good stick technique, too).
Had very good outlet passes. Cleared the zone effectively.
Was credited with three assists, but I’m guessing they might be second assists (outlet pass) without checking.
If I’m Cam, you always like those rock-solid defensive types. Dumoulin will be one of those types.
That didn’t come out right – I definitely feel like Dumoulin would stay at BC another year. He’s a late birthday and won’t even be 19 till this September. Might even stay for his junior year, like McBain did. McBain was 21 when he signed a pro contract.
I was thinking more about Ward (who’s young himself) knowing that there’s an very talented strong Dman in the pipeline to look forward to.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 9:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Surreal
If i had been behind the bench i would have called for a time out after the second boston goal on the PP…then maybe, just maybe that would have calmed folks down a bit…on tv (from where i was hooked up @ …the looks on the players facrs was one of shock & awe…but it was a good lesson to have to learn…
And as far as Domoulin goes, I’d like him to play one more year there @ BC
but we shall see won’t we …
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
I firmly believe now that Paul Maurice’s mindset is to win 5 on 5, and that the power play is, in effect, cheating. How else do you explain it?
Go Canes!
Power Play and Personnel
Before the season, I did a long and obsessive analysis of the upcoming season and the areas that were critical areas of potential failure. The lack of an efficient power play was an area I thought was the Hurricanes’ Achilles Heel. I don’t think coaching is the issue. I was convinced then and am even more convinced now that the failure is one of gaps in personnel.
McBain will address a significant part of the personnel gap because he has the vision and hands and puck-handling ability to quarterback the power play. McBain also has great timing on his shot and know how to get the puck to the net. What the Hurricanes lack is painfully obvious. They have nobody close to Jordan Staal or Ryan Malone. A beast on the ice who can take matters into his own hands and freight train to the net. Time after time, the post-game commentary would contain the statements that “the Hurricanes didn’t get net traffic” or “we didn’t get pucks to the net” or “we didn’t have net presence.”
The Hurricanes can address this problem in two easy fashions. First, the Hurricanes can use their great draft position to draft a force of nature forward. There are a number of fast, strong, big, physical scoring forwards available if the Hurricanes draft #7 or #8. Some candidates for that job include: (1) Ryan Johansen, ranked #10 by CSS; (2) Nino Niederreiter, ranked #12 by CSS; (3) Nick Bjugstad, ranked #13 by CSS; (4) Austin Watson, ranked #14 by CSS; (5) Riley Sheahan, ranked #22 by CSS; (6) Brock Nelson, ranked #25 by CSS.
Also, players like Kirill Kabanov and Ivan Telegin may also be available in the second round. In addition to the new draft choices, the Hurricanes have Osala at Albany. His play has improved dramatically over the short time he has been with Albany; as further demonstrated by the hat-trick he scored in a recent game. Osala at 6’4" 230 lbs, skates well, has great hands and excellent vision. Although Kostopoulos has been fantastic for the Hurricanes in so many ways, if the Hurricanes can’t trade somebody like Samsonov, Kostopoulos could potentially be traded to create a roster spot for Osala.
So of the personnel issues will resolve itself with the development of players such as Boychuk, Bowman, Tlusty, Dalpe, and Samson. Sutter and McBain are excellent on the power play and will be improved next season. Rodney, too, has the ability to be an asset on the power play. In summary, my belief is that the power play was ineffective because the team lacked some key components to a successful power play; rather than failing because the team had poor coaching on the power play.
Johansen, Ryan Center Portland WHL
11 7 Burmistrov, Alexander Center Barrie OHL
12 14 Niederreiter, Nino Right Wing Portland WHL
13 12 Bjugstad, Nick Center Blaine HIGH-MN
14 25 Watson, Austin Left Wing Peterborough OHL
15 10 McFarland, John Left Wing Sudbury OHL
16 22 Toffoli, Tyler Center Ottawa OHL
17 27 McIlrath, Dylan Defenseman Moose Jaw WHL
18 21 Pitlick, Tyler Center Minnesota State WCHA
19 29 Howden, Quinton Center Moose Jaw WHL
20 23 Galiev, Stanislav Right Wing Saint John QMJHL
21 20 Merrill, Jonathon Defenseman USA U-18 USDP
22 5 Sheahan, Riley Center U. of Notre Dame CCHA
23 33 Straka, Petr Right Wing Rimouski QMJHL
24 19 Coyle, Charlie Right Wing/Center South Shore EJHL
25 17 Nelson, Brock Center Warroad HIGH-MN
Another thing that may have caused issues is the revolving door we’ve had on both players coming back and forth from Albany, and the constant line switching that the coaching staff seems to favor here. I understand the actoual though behind trying to shake up lines and see if it causes a jump, but I just don’t think you can get a good enough read on things when you leave a line together for one period and then all of a sudden it’s musical chair time.
Can someone please get Manny a new shirt? He DESERVES one.
I sort of believe in what A Dog said. I believe JR short changed on quality personel. If you look at the start of the year and then compare with the fair last half, you can plainly see the fundamental shift.
I ind it interesting that Rod didn’t make the trip. Rod is the worst player in the league that doesn’t play for the oil. I’m still waiting for the announcement or his buyout, neither can happen too soon.
I’m also curious and am looking for opinions, wtf is JR doing scouting Hall and Seguin? Is there even a remote shot at getting one or the other? Or is he bored with nothing better to do and doesn’t need to polish his resume?
Ended with an eng…….that pains me inways bad gas only can aspire to. I think eng’s should only count as half a point. Enough to put your team ahead, but it ain’t a real goal. I hate eng’s.
Anybody else cogitating on the roster? It looks like we are a tad heavy in a forward position or two. I would profer the idea of shedding Rod, Cole and Sammi. Not exactly sure any or all would garner more than a soiled paired of sweat socks, but would allow room for the more talented youth to come up.
i find myself amused at the fact that the D was the big concern coming into this pisspoor excuse of a season and now we are not exactly some juggernaut to be feared. While deleting Kaberle and Wallin and adding Carson and McBadass was great, where do we really stand? I think better off than last years start, but maybe not where we need to be yet.
i also think we need a genuine killer upfront. I think Staal proved beyond a shadow of a doubt he can score, but has to have a Binky of some sort to do it. I believe it or not, have no, zero, nada issue with that. Staal is a point machine when he is surrounded with dynamic players. i would like to see a guy that plays meaner ANd scores. Maybe Sutter turns out to be that guy, maybe we need another guy. He won’t be found in the draft. Pretty much everybody in the draft hasn’t filled out yet. We need a Booth or Kessler to take some focus of Staal. I think the season has taught us that a guy like Sutter spread the danger enough to have the pressure lighten up on Staal and when he got some help, Staal did his job.
Be an interesting offseason, ‘preciate y’all putting up with my diatribes and look forward to many spirited threads in the coming days.
A
In the good old days if you commited adutery you were stoned, nowadays it's the other way around.
Wimmin can attract men with thier minds, seems a lot easier to do it with what they don't mind, though.
The right to bare arms is key. Though I'd pay to see more.
I think JR going to scout Seguin/Hall/Fowler is a CLEAR indication that he will try damn hard to move up and grab Tyler Seguin. Whether he will be successful we shall see, I’d guess he could likely make it happen if he REALLY wanted it (Maybe throw in our 1st this year and next to Edmonton for a top-2 pick).
If we were going the power forward route instead, I’d be mighty interested in JR trading some players and seconds for an upper First Round pick and take Austin Watson. This big power forward fell through the cracks with the superstars at Windsor but he scored 19 points in 10 games after being traded to Petesborough and moved up 2-3 Rounds in the Draft.
If we pick up a D (Gormley, Gudbranson, Folwer) I think you can certainly expect Pitkanen to be shopped for (and most likely traded for) a top-6 forward at some point in this season. With Gleason, McBain, Dumoulin, and a Draft pick listed above… We simply can’t afford to keep him next season if we have that much D depth. Especially with the emergence of Jamie McBain as our future PP specialist.
What do you think the real possibilty is that JR could pull that off?
A
'09-'10 needed more than a spoonful of sugar, felt like a broken glass and battery acid suppository.
Young hockey players, the future, the answer. Learn it, then live it.
I think he could make it happen if he really wanted to. I think it would cost us at least our 1st this and next year or our 1st this year and a top-6 prospect (Boychuk/Bowman/Dalpe/Tlusty). Though I’m looking at it more if it is even possible at all because normally top-3 picks are untouchable. Would it be worth it to get a potential Superstar like Seguin? I think so and I bet JR thinks so. The Canes have always been super high on home-grown talent and he is as home-grown as they come.
I think it REALLY depends on the Draft lottery. I think we actually have a good chance depending on what happens.
Edmonton – I don’t think Edmonton will give up the 1st if they won it. That was an oversight, they will take Taylor Hall simply to play with Jordan Eberle and be “the Future of the Oilers”. That leaves Seguin anyway.
Boston – I don’t know that they would give up Seguin. They were last in goals scored this year and really need a scorer. Many people think they would take a D because they are relatively strong at center, maybe. Not likely in my opinion.
Tampa – Here is where I think we got a shot. Tampa doesn’t need a Center, they need D. They have Stamkos and Lecavalier. If they win the 1st or 2nd Overall pick in the Lottery I really think they might trade it if the deal was sweet enough. They can pick up a damn good D still with our top-10 pick.
Florida – Same as Tampa, they may be looking to rebuild around a guy like Seguin, however they need a serious rebuild. One player won’t help their team.. I think JR could make them a deal they couldn’t pass up if he wanted.
Islanders – Maybe, they are perennial losers and are in the same boat of 1 player not turning the team around. They picked the Tavares 1st Overall last year to be their center of the future so I don’t think they necessarily need Seguin.
I try to look at it this way… Almost every Draft teams move up in the first round. 2 years ago the Leafs moved up from the 9th pick to the 5th pick through 2 trades and it only cost them two 2nd rounders and a few later picks. That is a pretty big jump for the cost of basically two 2nd rounders (We have 3 this year).
Tyler Seguin and Being Politically Correct
Tyler Seguin is the kind of center around whom one can build a team. I think no GM will risk the storm of fan criticism that would come by trading away the rights to Tyler Seguin. I think Hall and Seguin are the first two picks; and I doubt anybody can pry them away from Edmonton and Boston. I think Connolly is another matter. He is less well publicized and a GM could easily take one of the three big-named defensemen without being feathered and tarred and ridden out of town on a mule.
I like Jussi ‘splainin’ it like that. I guess it is a possible thing, though I agree I don’t see it happening. You know I don’t believe Hall plays in the NHL next year. Not sure about Seguin either. Hall is just too small and young to get thrown in like Stamkos. Skill and luck can only carry David so far against Goliath. I don’t think the kid can pull 82 games and live to tell about it.
A
'09-'10 needed more than a spoonful of sugar, felt like a broken glass and battery acid suppository.
Young hockey players, the future, the answer. Learn it, then live it.
Trust me I think it is highly improbably… But certainly not impossible. It certainly wouldn’t be cheap. I was speaking more of whether it would be possible at all. I think Tampa specifically would be willing to deal if they ended up with the #2 pick.
Two first round picks is a kings ransom. Especially when one of them is a guaranteed top-8 pick this year. I wouldn’t even dream of the idea if JR hadn’t personally gone to scout the Plymouth vs. Windsor series. That is what really surprised me.
Who is tied in with Plymouth?
Remember what the nickname of Plymouth’s team is – it is entirely possible he was scouting Plymouth as a favor to the boss (Karmanos).
This team is loaded up front – they need to acquire some stay at home defenseman. Look at this team at the 3 positions:
Goal – loaded Ward, Peters, Murphy (but I would like to see Legace resigned – he played well, and could be trade bait for a Flyers team)
Forwards:
Center: Staal, Sutter (did I see Sutter wearing an “A” yesterday?), Ruutu, Jokinen, Dwyer, Samson, Brind’Amour (I know)
Wings: LaRose, Whitney, Cole, Boychuk, Samsonov, Kostopoulos, Bowman, Osala, Tlusty, plus whomever is not a center
Defense:
McBain, Pitkanen, Gleason and a bunch of Rats (Harrison, Rodney, Borer, Carson, Picard). I’d like to see Pothier resigned – not just because I am an RPI grad!
Given that there is a lot of firepower (remember, Samson was the #2 goal scorer in the AHL this year!) on offense, and we want to prevent disasters like yesterday, what this team needs is another Tim Gleason. As good as Cam Ward is, I don’t want to see 7-5 games every night (and I’m sure Cam doesn’t either). This team has 2 great centers already in Staal and Sutter – who knows who else will develop into that 3rd center? Ruutu? Jussi? Samson? or will they play wings on the top 2 lines.
We could use another Franchise D, no doubt. However the problem with this team will always be that Staal has no one to play with. We may be loaded in the top-6, however we are bone-dry when it comes to legitimate First Line Wingers Management will never sign a big FA, they are too cheap to pay any Star the big bucks while they are already overpaying Staal. The only solution is to Draft someone. Staal can play Wing if we Draft a Star Center.
I don’t see how scouting Plymouth personally is a favor to Karmanos… In his interview JR said he went to the game specifically to take a look at Seguin/Hall/Fowler. He talked them up a great deal and I think it’s pretty obvious he would love to have one.
And… as I said… I personally don’t think Edmonton or Boston would give up the 1st or 2nd Overall picks.
I think, however, with the Islanders and Tampa specifically… I think they have the Centers in place that they would take the D with our pick plus the extra goodies instead of acquiring yet another Franchise Center.
Prospects
As excellent as Seguin is, I really hope that Jim Rutherford does not trade any of the prospects, such as Boychuk/Bowman/Dalpe/Tlusty. It could well be a trade like Jokinen where one wonders what the GM was taking when he made that deal. I think the Kessel trade is another bone-headed trade that will cost Toronto for years. I doubt any GM would trade either Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin for Kessel; or at least any GM other than Burke. Burke was acting out of hubris, I think, rather than logic when he made that deal.
Jim Rutherford, I think, is excellent at staying the course and now over-reacting. The Hurricanes are a player or two away; and this draft will give them a chance to load up even more on talent. After all, the team as constituted with young, inexperienced players still managed since January to be the second best team in the Eastern Conference — despite key injuries and inexperience. The young players will come back as somewhat seasoned veterans. There is no reason to deplete the talent pool for a player who has yet to play a minute in the NHL.
Amen on that last sent.!!!!!!
I’m more along the lines of trading potential draft picks for proven journeymen.
While the youth program is crucial, we got a pile of them and are lucky enough to have a very skilled group. I’d like to see a few more players shed and mayb one or two solid additions. Then concentrate on the draft down the road. I don’t see any answer for this team and the current roster in the draft. Fine additions to be sure, but not the key to the puzzle.
A
'09-'10 needed more than a spoonful of sugar, felt like a broken glass and battery acid suppository.
Young hockey players, the future, the answer. Learn it, then live it.
I agree also…
But the basis of this whole idea was trying to figure out exactly why JR personally went to scout Hall/Seguin/Fowler during their playoff series. I have never heard of JR going to personally scout anyone
I think we have too many potential top-6 forwards. In my opinion we can afford to lose one of Bowman/Tlusty. Great prospects with a ton of potential, but we have too many. There simply isn’t spots on the Canes for these all these guys. Especially if we re-sign Whitney.
Whitney in the Puzzle
I understand completely the thought that there are quite a few potential top six forwards. My take is that is a great thing; and that it gives the Hurricanes numerous options and also gives the players opportunities to develop. For example, the Hurricanes can do what San Jose did this year and essentially split the season in thirds for its top forward prospects. They would cycle between San Jose and their AHL affiliate. With Charlotte three hours drive door to door, the Hurricanes can give Tlusty, Bowman, and Dalpe time at Carolina and still send them back down to the AHL to focus on specific development needs.
The way things are going, I think the Hurricanes may well view Whitney as playing for certain one more year, with an option to play a second year. Much will depend on whom the Hurricanes draft and how quickly Boychuk, Bowman, Tlusty, and Dalpe are ready for top six or top nine minutes. Osala and Samson are also making a claim on a roster spot.
The more I think of the situation, the more I think Jim Rutherford is going to try to trade some more veterans, including Kostopoulos. For example, I could readily envision Jim Rutherford trading Kostopoulos before trading LaRose.
I agree that we COULD afford to trade one of the winger prospects if we could improve an area of need. Boychuk is probably safe, the organization has real high hopes for him. Bowman and Tlusty could be/develop into 2nd or 3rd line wingers. Terry could develop into a 3rd or 4th winger. Dalpe should be a 2nd line or 3rd line forward, maybe 1st line winger. Samson, Dwyer, and Osala are probably 4th liners; maybe Osala could develop into a 3rd line checker.
I say we hold on to Dalpe & Boychuk and be willing to package one of the others if it nets us a player of need or an upgrade. One of those players could turn into a very good player, but we can’t trade garbage for gold. You must give up something to get something.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 12:50 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
+1
I really like Bowman and Tlusty, but we don’t have room for both of them. We might not even have room for either of them in the top-6. As to what AD said, I think the only problem with having all these great potential top-6 guys is that eventually (within the next 2 years), all of them will need raises. If players like Boychuk/Dalpe develop into top-6 forwards next year, they will need a big raise. I don’t think the Canes can afford to keep everyone even if they wanted too. Especially with what we will have to pay our Draft Pick.
The Boston Bruins Approach
The advantage to have depth and to developing prospects into NHL ready forwards is that (1) it protects against injuries; (2) it provides tremendous incentive for all the players to stick with their “A” game; and (3) the prospects who develop into NHL ready players brings a better return — for example look at the amount Burke overpaid for Kessel. I wouldn’t part with assets before I gave them all the time in the world to develop. I wouldn’t risk have a trade like Tampa Bay did with Jokinen. 30 goal scorers are precious; and any of those players have the potential to be at least 20 goal scorers if things broke their way.
Still doesn’t answer the main problem… In the next 1-2 years all of these kids will go from $550k-$900k rookie contracts to $1.5-2 million at least.
With the raises we will already have to give Sutter and Jokinen, where is that money going to come from?
This Offseason’s RFAs:
Tlusty, Carson, Picard, and Peters
Next Offseason’s RFAs/UFA:
Sutter, Jokinen, Pitkanen, Boychuk, Bowman, and Osala
If half of these players play the way we project them too next year, they will all require big raises. Plus the Canes are going to be cutting costs, not adding to them. Something has to give.
If the kids play well enough to desire a raise, the organization will either ante up the cash (and hopefully the All Star Game will increase the numbers of Season Ticket Holders) or some players will be traded. Why trade them now when their trade value would be geometrically higher after they have proven themselves and are in great demand?
AD,
I know you are all about the prospects and you do indeed need them. But you have to realize that some may have better trade value now as prospects than NHL players that never lived up to their potential. I’m not saying we trade all prospects. I’m saying if one of the many forward prospects can be included to get as an area of need or an upgrade; do it. We have more wing prospects than we have positions. I’m not trying to be disrespectful, but think logically about the situation.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 3:56 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I think Bowman specifically has a very high trade value right now. People still consider him to be a top prospect and a deadly shooter. Another year in Albany or on-and-off with the Canes and his trade value will go down significantly in my opinion.
I think the only way Bowman’s value could increase next year is if the Canes gave him a permanent top-9 spot and he scored 15-30 goals. But that takes alone would take a spot from a different potential top-6 guy who’s value would then decline…
The Canes have to be smart if they are going to take the route you described… True every single one of the prospects could turn out to be top-6 guys and their trade value could go up significantly. But as long as we don’t have the spots for them to play, I think their value will only decline. That is to say I don’t think any of their trade values will increase simply being shifted back and forth between the Rats.
Jussi, I somewhat agree. Our top 6 includes Staal, Jokinen, Sutter, and Ruutu. Considering that a 6th or 7th overall pick is likely to be a forward and Boychuk and Dalpe are projected top 6; we are already 7 players for a top 6. Bowman or Tlusty could play a 3rd line winger position, but one would most likely have to play on the 4th line. That’s why entertaining the idea of trading 1 of them as part of a package deal for a higher draft slot, a 3rd line center, or a top 4 defenseman would be wise.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 4:20 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Rolling Four Lines
I think the Hurricanes coaches are going to have to learn how to roll four lines because they have the unique and fortunate situation of having very talented forwards in the system. In 2005-2006, rolling four lines made the Hurricanes a dominating team. I agree that if one considers the top six to include the four core/key players: Staal, Jokinen, Sutter, and Ruutu, it leaves the #7 pick and Boychuk as in the top six. If Whitney is re-signed, there is only space for for of those two players.
Bowman and Tlusty will wind up on the third line, I think; and LaRose or Cole will be there on the third line. I assume they will work Tlusty as the third line center, if Dalpe doesn’t take that position.
The fourth line is pretty wide open, but I think one could easily see Samson/Dwyer/Osala as ending up 2010-2011 as the fourth line. Paul Maurice, Jason Karmanos, and Jim Rutherford have all gone on record saying the Hurricanes in 2010-2011 will be younger, faster, bigger, and more physical. It sounds like a plan to me.
You just named 14 potential forwards, and we also have two more fowards (Samsonov and Kostopoulos) under contract for next season.
Although I doubt seriously that the #7 pick is NHL-ready at training camp, let’s say that’s a possibility.
Therefore, we potentially have 16 candidates for 12 forward slots. So, options include don’t sign Ray, keep three or four prospects in Charlotte, or shed bodies in a hunt for top-4 D or a scoring winger on a two/three-for-one deal…or, all of the above.
Someone has to go.
Some One Does Have to Go
Some one has to go is a point that occurred to me early in the season. The question is not if somebody has to go, but eventually who will go. Some players will remain in Charlotte for some part of the year unless Jim Rutherford can trade some or all of Samsonov, Cole, Kostopolos, and possibly even LaRose. Brind’Amour clearly has to be bought out.
The good news is that Brind’Amour, Cole, Samsonov and LaRose have contracts that expire at the end of 2010-2011; so to a large degree time will solve the log-jam at forward. It’s going to be a huge battle for the roster spots.
Again AD, me and you disagree about LaRose. I think he is vital to the team. He is great (from all accounts) in the locker room, is a good checker (especially for a small guy), can play anywhere up and down the lineup, and is effective on the PK. I’m sorry, but my opinion is that replacing him with an unproven Bowman or Tlusty would be a mistake. They have potential, but neither has showed that they could fill Papa Smurf’s shoes.
I wouldn’t mind seeing a 4th line of Tlusty-Dwyer-Kostopoulos next season. I think Tlusty could play on the PK and should be able to give that line a little scoring threat. With injuries, he could possible move up to fill holes. He would have to work hard to prove he belongs, similar to LaRose a couple of years ago. And before you say that him on the 4th line would be a waste; remember that Datsyuk was on Detroits 4th line at one point (of course that was a very talented Detroit team). And if you role 4 lines, he should get about 8 to 10 minutes while he is proving he belongs.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 8:21 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
LaRose and Bowman, Tlusty, Dalpe, Osala
One way I try to gain distance and objectivity is to ask myself “would an NHL GM who had Bowman, Tlusty, Dalpe, or Osala trade them to get LaRose?”
Dalpe was a second round draft choice, whom many services ranked as a first round draft choice, so I doubt another team’s GM would trade him for LaRose. Tlusty is a first round draft choice. Again, I think the answer is no trade. Bowman was highly rated and the question for him was his skating — which he improved immeasurably. No trade, I think. Similarly, Osala at 6’4" 230 lbs brings a power game but also has finesse. I doubt a trade would occur.
The other consideration is whether those players if they develop, and that is still not known, do they have a greater upside than LaRose? LaRose brings intangibles without question. Whether those intangibles out-weigh the talent of Bowman, Tlusty, Dalpe, and Osala is much more questionable. It all depends how well those prospects develop. Having seen them all play in the AHL and having seen LaRose from his first game with the Hurricanes, I know I would want to keep all of them and LaRose. If at the end of next season I had to let a potential 20 to 30 goal scorer leave or trade LaRose, I’d reluctantly trade LaRose. It would be very unhappy about it; and I would want about any other option — including cutting short Whitney’s playing career by one year perhaps; but if that were the last and only option, I would do it. As Maurice noted, many of those young players can help the Hurricanes for 10, 12, or 15 years.
However, as that GM, I can’t just look at players like that, as a head-to-head comparison, forever.
If, at some point, I have so many talented prospects that I’m having to stock my fourth line with them, then I’m going to have a severe budget problem and/or not going to be able to give everyone enough quality time to keep their skills sharp.
At that point, I do want my character guy, who has an upper end of that exact slotting (let’s face it, the pairing with Staal was purely situational).
There are places for players like LaRose, even in a talent-rich environment. Takes all kinds of talents to make a Cup-winning team.
AD, I’m not disagreeing with you that the kids are promising. I just feel that Chad fills a role that they cannot. I for one THINK Dalpe could be a real diamond in the rough. I think Bowman could become a 2nd line wing that will score about 20-25 goals a season. Osala is probably a career fringe player, but his size could be very useful. Tlusty on the other hand has not proven anything to me yet. He has potential, but has yet to live up to it.
If I were a GM and a straight-up trade of LaRose for each of those players were proposed to me, I would say: Dalpe – you’re joking right, Bowman – you need to add a 2nd or 3rd, Osala – you’ve got yourself a deal, and Tlusty – let me think about it (but probably yes).
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by PackPride17 on Apr 12, 2010 12:14 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I don’t think Tlusty is an answer at the 3rd line center spot. Staal and Sutter need some help to take some pressure off and having Tlusty and Dwyer as the 3rd and 4th line centers to mewould put a lot of pressure on them. Both would play extended minutes – 5 on 5, PP, and PK. I just think eventually it would become to much for them. We need to find a capable 3rd line center that can win a faceoff and is defensively responsible. And just going younger wouldn’t solve all of our problems if you put square pegs in round holes. Tlusty and Dwyer don’t seem to be natural centers IMO.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 8:02 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Dalpe, Tlusty, Dwyer and the Third Line Center Dilemma
There is no question in my mind that the Hurricanes have a dilemma at third line center. I think the Hurricanes style works best with a tall, fast center, such as Staal or Sutter. My best guess is that Dalpe and Tlusty get their shot at third line center. Additionally, players such as Johansen and Bjugstad and Sheahan also seem excellent choices as third line centers — but they may well not be ready by 2010-2011. Paul Maurice has indicated that he has no issue trying Jokinen and Ruutu at center as well. To me, it seems odd to take a 30 goal scorer like Jokinen and then move him to third line. I think Dwyer will be the fourth line center next season. It is a real question as one considers how the lines will work out in 2010-2011.
I agree with PackPride17 and JussiJuice that it wouldn’t surprise me to see at least one or two or our wing prospects dealt as part of a move-up package and/or a trade for top-4 D.
Bowman has been on my radar, much as I would hate to lose him, for the very reason that I think it’s going to be hard to fit him onto our roster in a timely manner. Kid deserves a shot, and I’m just not sure we have room for him, unless JR gets Ray Whitney off his mind and trades Samsonov, as well.
He’s too much talent to hold down on the farm, and his trade value is sky high right now, before reality or injury strikes.
I’m hoping someone bites on Tlusty, instead, but Bowman’s name is bound to come up in trade talks.
We’ll see. Based on how much the Hurricanes’ organization likes Boychuk, Bowman, Dalpe, and Tlusty, I think there is almost no chance they will be traded any time soon; but again it is all projection of the future, so time will provide the answer one way or the other.
And IMO that would be a mistake by the organization. As a GM, you have to look beyond next season.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 4:25 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
There is talk that Edmonton needs a franchise center to play with their young prospects and they are likely to take Seguin #1 overall, if they get it. That would mean Boston could get the one player they covet most, Taylor Hall.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 5:28 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Jordan Eberle is their Center of the future (Their 1st round pick last year) and he already has great chemistry with Taylor Hall. I seriously doubt they would take Tyler Seguin. I don’t know where you heard that but literally everything I have seen has said Hall is a Lock if Edmonton gets the 1st Overall Pick.
And I know you know, but just because Toronto finished 2nd to last doesn’t mean they will get the 2nd Overall pick. Unless you are assuming we win the Draft (Which I’m totally on board with), give it time.
I heard it from Adam Muir. He was indicating Eberle playing wing.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 7:15 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
my vote is
Nino…as i saw him play agaiunst spokane in the first round…he would be a great asset and players like Bowman know of him i would think…and his stats with the winterhawks are good…and he isn’t afraid to get in there and dig for the puck either…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
I thought this was Nino’s first year in the North American leagues…. not sure- but he is young.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Nino Statistics
Nino Niederreiter
Left Wing
Born Sep 8 1992 — Chur, Switzerlan
Height 6.02 — Weight 203 — Shoots L
—- Regular Season - -- Playoffs --
Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM
-—————————————————————————————————————————-
2009-10 Portland Winterhawks WHL 65 36 24 60 68
2009-10p Portland Winterhawks WHL 12 7 8 15 14
-—————————————————————————————————————————-
Current statistics as of 2010-04-11
excellent – He just seems like he should be a Hurricane. Completely hockeymom point of view.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 7:08 PM EDT up reply actions
I like Nino, but there are better players in the 3rd-8th spot we will be picking. We are lucky enough to be picking out of the upper-echelon of this Draft Class (just barely). Nino had a good WJC, but he is clearly not on the same skill level as Hall/Seguin. He has been good in the WHL, but not great.
if we draft 6-8, I would take Nino behind Connolly or Gudbranson – who may be available in those slots. I think Connolly may be the most skilled player we could select. Gudbranson is a solid defensive defenseman that should be a top 4 guy. Nino is a solid all-around player. His ceiling is lower than Connolly, but I think he provides some skill with speed, size, and grit. Sounds like a quality player. I don’t think Nino or Connolly will be playing in the NHL next season.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 7:53 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Forwards other than Hall, Seguin, Connolly
This year is quite deep at forwards who can and will contribute. Some players might well take a year or two. Any of the forwards listed 10-15 by the NHL CSS would ultimately be impact players for the Hurricanes:
10 16 Johansen, Ryan Center Portland WHL
11 7 Burmistrov, Alexander Center Barrie OHL
12 14 Niederreiter, Nino Right Wing Portland WHL
13 12 Bjugstad, Nick Center Blaine HIGH-MN
14 25 Watson, Austin Left Wing Peterborough OHL
http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectbrowse.htm?cat=1&year=2010&navid=DL|NHL|DraftMicrosite2010
either one
Nino or Connolly would be a good fit for the Canes Organization…but again we shall see what we shall see…gee it’s tough having to wait…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
I too think Connolly will be available at our pick. I hope so at least. Hopefully his injuries will ward away other teams and we can steal a potential top-line Forward. Nino is good but I don’t see him as a 1st liner.
Yeah, I’m not sure if he is a true 1st liner, but I think is a 2nd liner for sure. Its like Sheahan, I think he is a career 3rd line center; that’s not a knock on him, every team needs players to fill roles. I also think that Kabonov could develop into a 1st liner, but he is risky and I wouldn’t take him in the top 20. I think Connolly is one of the last 1st line talents that could be left when we draft. That doesn’t mean others won’t develop into 1st liners, I just think it will take more development.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 9:01 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Connolly and the Path to the First Line
Everything I’ve read and all the video of Connolly that I have been able to find of him convinces me that Connolly is the closest to being able to play in the NHL next season of every forward other than Hall and Seguin. If Connolly is available and if he is healthy, the Hurricanes would be making a great decision to take him. Connolly has the clearest path to a first line position of the forwards — again with the exception of Hall and Seguin.
I am fine with any of the forwards listed by the NHL CSS in their rankings up to at least the 20th ranking. I do prefer a big-framed forward with speed and great hands. Connolly fits the
The Three Short-Handed Goal Fiasco
I am watching the Washington v. Boston game and already they have shown the three short-handed goal video. It is not exactly the kind of history the Hurricanes wanted to make this season.
Remember that if our 1st round pick doesn’t show immediately that he belongs in the NHL, he will spend next season in juniors. I believe that he would not be eligible (correct me if I’m wrong) to play in the A next season.
We also need to realize that injuries will happen and we can’t completely deplete the A or we won’t have anybody to call up. I like the idea someone mentioned about trading with Florida for Horton. I would be willing to give up Sammy or Cole and our 2011 1st for Horton. Have Dalpe start the season in the A and have him be the first forward call-up. If the season turns into a stinker, we could trade Horton to Montreal for their 1st and/or Pumpkinhead to someone for their 1st.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 1:06 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
You have to be 21 to play in the AHL (or turn 21 during the season) I believe to be eligible to play. So our pick could not play in the AHL immediately. However I think all of Hall, Seguin, Fowler, Gudbranson, and Gormley will indeed be in the NHL next year. Connolly is a question mark, I’d guess it depends on if he feels that he is healed and ready.
I think if we pick up a D in the Draft I would guess Pitkanen would be traded at the Trade Deadline for a very good return. Unless we are like top-5 in the NHL come the deadline that is what I’d expect.
I think if we draft Fowler or Gormley, that would indicate that Pitkanen’s days are numbered. If we select Gudbranson, we still needs Pits puck-moving abilities. We need puck-moving defenseman and Gleason, Carson, Picard, Borer, Harrison are not those guys. Even Rodney is at best a 3rd pairing guy, so without Pits we would be very lacking in that area. McLovin’ is one, but I think he is more of a shooter than passer. If we get Fowler or Gormley, we then have a puck-moving replacement; not so much in Gudbranson. Even Doumilin is considered a defensive guy, not a puck-mover.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 2:18 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Regarding our Defense; I think we have a 1, 2, 3, and 5 guy. We also have a bunch of 6/7 guys.
I’m thinking:
Gleason(2)-McBain(3)
Pitkanen(1)-?
Rodney(6/7)-Carson(5)
Picard(6/7)
Harrison(7/8)
Borer(7/8)
I would be willing to package Picard with someone to pick up a #4 all-around defenseman to pair with Pitkanen. I think between Harrison, Borer, and Lawson; they could fill the 7th defenseman position and injury replacements.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 1:23 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Babs ain’t coming back. We now have a more complete version of him in McLovin’. The only good Babs will ever be for us is a sweetener for a trade. Sorry to all of you Babs fans, but I truely believe he will never wear a Canes sweater again.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 2:25 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
We shall see. I truly believe that JR and Babchuk resolved their differences before last season and that Babs really wants to play in the NHL. He had a great year in the KHL and I’m sure he would come cheap which is what the Canes are looking for.
Jim Rutherford and Not Burning Bridges
Jim Rutherford said at the start of this season that he would not be surprised if sometime during Babchuk’s career that he wound up back in a Hurricanes uniform. I think Jim Rutherford tries never to burn bridges.
Not me. If I were GM, I’d hold the talent tight in my little hands and try to see which ones would blossom. I’d use the draft, UFAs and RFAs to fill any gaps.
AD,
Just asking, what has Picard showed you in Carolina or Ottawa that would justify more than a 3rd pairing role?
Consider that not all prospects will turn out good. And the longer you hold onto them, the more potential goes out the window. Then they have little to no trade value. Your going to hit some and miss some. We have other prospects and Picard is likely to only be here for next season anyway.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 3:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Picard
What I saw about Picard that impressed me was (1) his skating ability, (2) his physical intensity, (3) his shot, and (4) his size. I thought he had the potential to play plenty of NHL second pairing minutes based on those factors. I give zero deference to Ottawa’s evaluation of talent. Picard and Corvo were given the same treatment in Ottawa. Carolina does an excellent job of nurturing talented players who have been rushed and then abandoned. I wouldn’t rush to judgment on Picard in terms of getting rid of him. Big, fast, aggressive defensemen with a strong shot are hard to find. I think the Hurricanes will benefit from giving him a full chance to prove himself.
Picard only played 9 games with Carolina, but didn’t even produce a point. His production wasn’t exactly impressive. I’m not saying he is worthless, but could be better as trade bait than a player. He is on his 4th NHL team in a short period of time.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 11, 2010 4:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I saw that the Canes sent 6 players to Albany again. But Jay Harrison wasn’t listed today. though he was on the Clear Day list last month. Anyone have an explanation?
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 3:00 PM EDT reply actions
Harrison
My best guess is that Harrison may have played himself out a position. He had some struggles both early and late in the season. The only other explanation is that he would have to go through re-entry waivers and there would be no reason to do that. I noticed Harrison was missing from the list as well. Maybe Bob or Cory have a better answer.
Albany Times Union has the answer here. Harrison has to clear waivers and that can’t happen till Monday.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 11, 2010 8:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks for getting the accurate answer. Harrison is going to need a great training camp to stick next season at Carolina, I think.
as far as
Babs goes…only time will tell…now i know how hard it is for me to sit still and wait to see what is going to happen…as this is just mid april…and we caniacs still have to endure …and for many of us..that will be the hardest thing we have to do after the lottery drawing …and sitting through the playoffs & etc…see i was “postive” there wasn’t I ??
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Fitting End: At Least Evander Kane Blistered Matt Cooke
The best part of yesterday was Evander Kane hammering Matt Cooke in a fight Cooke started, but Kane ended with one punch. Cooke and Orpik are two dirty and cowardly players. I would love to see Kane get some street justice on Orpik, as well.
http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/evander_kane_one_punch_on_matt_cooke_tonight/
Very Crazy
The Rangers lost in the shootout tonight, therefore missing out on the playoffs. What is crazy to me is after the loss… They ended up 3 spots behind us in 10th. A shootout from the Playoffs but will still end up with a Top-10 pick. Really exemplifies how much the East Conference sucked it up this year.
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