The Marcel Goc signing by the Preds is being railed and hailed by some. Both sides have valid arguments of course.
Here's my view on it. You essentially replaced Scott Nichol. This moves further deepens the competition on the bottom two lines and provides some NHL experienced depth.
Now, I can't quite come to you and say this move IMPROVED the team just yet. I do know that Goc has the potential to be a solid grinder but he's certainly not the answer to the scoring problem. That said, to me this move is a lateral one. Time will tell what he can bring to the team so I can't call it a bad move or a great move just yet. It's a move the just puts you back where you were last season. Until David Poile gets himself a top 6 forward there will be no improvement in the weakest area of this Predator teams current makeup.
The other thing that should be noted (and was by HB user blueline in the previous blog comments) is that in order for Goc to play in the AHL he would have to pass waivers. So the 2-way deal is slightly deceiving.
In the end, I like the fact that the Preds went out and got a cheap and NHL experienced guy to further the competition for the bottom two lines. It's the top two lines that lack a piece though. Until the Preds take care of that, they will continue to befuddle fans and media alike.
*****
Final mailbag time. Just a few questions to wrap up with.
Brandon,
I checked the Preds roster page on their website, and it has Arnott still the captain and alternates being Dumont and Sullivan. After the departure of Kimmo, there was lots of speculation as to who would be the next captain. It ended up being Jason Arnott, though many clamored for Sullivan to be awarded the captaincy. It has been noted by some that Arnott sometimes seems to take plays off, doesn't skate full out, etc.... I've also heard mention of riffs at times between Arnott and Trotz. Now that Sullivan appears to be back fully, it creates an interesting situation.
Do you get the feeling that a change in captain would help motivate players, or would that be more demoralizing in its effect? It's not exactly common that all your team captains are all members of the same offensive line, is it?
Also, do you know anything about the Preds third jersey and if a set debut time has been determined? Thanks again for your great work!
icestorm
I think at this point a change in who is wearing the "C" would be more harmful than helpful. I know for a fact many of the guys in the locker room look up to Jason Arnott. Just notice, when he is on and going full bore, the other guys respond and do the same. The leadership group usually is not all on the same line. That said, other than the "C", I'm not sure how Barry Trotz will give out the "A". He may switch things up. It's his call so I wouldn't be surprised if things may get shook up a little in regards to the "A".
I personally don't have much info on the 3rd jersey at this time. I expect to hear more during training camp and will pass along any info I glean of course.
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Brandoni,
Is Radulov gone for:
A. This season only
B. 2 years
C. 2-3 years
D. "Forever"
Thanks,
-- The Duke
Hmmm, Brandoni eh? I guess I look into my crystal ball for this one and go with C. I think he wants to come back but outside forces are preventing it.
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Brandon,
1. Where do you realistically see the salary cap going for the 10-11 season?
2. Based on your answer to question #1 and other factors, is Poile willing/able to lock Hamhuis up without giving up Suter or Weber?
3. Is Poile done making moves for this summer or will he bring another forward in and who is the odds on favorite?
Go Preds!!!
wrandsw
1. If I had to guess, I would say it goes down to between 51 to 54 million. I'm not expecting a HUGE drop off, but even 3 million is significant because that could be a top 6 forwards salary.
2. I don't think Hamhuis will be back next season. Just a gut feeling.
3. I really don't know. It appears he'll go with what he has into training camp, but you never know. Who say the Goc signing coming?
Till next time, take care friends.
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