He scored all his points in the first 3 games. Went scoreless in the last 3 games.
- jv526

Had his bags packed for the IIHF World Championships - more fun playing Belarus and Latvia than the nasty NHL playoff hockey over here, especially when the paychecks stop at the end of the regular season.

I'm with you. Saad only goes if its a good return.

I am not in the camp that the Hawks would have to retain salary to move Saad.

Around the deadline he would be very valuable. 2-time Stanley Cup winner, strong 2-way/PK play, fast and bigger body to endure a long playoff run.

I admit, 6M is not insignificant but he has the skill as a top 6 and is still only 26.

I think I just talked myself into not trading him if I'm Stan. Ha.
- Justin Lowe

The Blackhawks don't need to move Saad so they shouldn't retain any salary to do so.
Besides, he only has two more years on his deal after the one so I anticipate him coming into next season more focused than ever, which means waiting a year or two will bring a better return. And/or, keeping him means he's probably better next year and the year after; especially if the team signs a legit RW to play on a line with he and Toews.

I wouldn't retain salary for anyone unless it was a pretty sweet return.

I think Kruger gets dealt.

I respectfully disagree with you here. The Oilers are indeed trying to move Rieder now, but if they want to dump him in the offseason it won't cost them anything. He's an RFA so they'll either trade him for maybe a 5th rounder or they won't qualify and he'll walk, right?

The player the Oilers need to dump off is Spooner and at $3.1MM I don't think it's going to cost them a lot in order to do so. I could see them sending Spooner, a prospect and a 1st to the Coyotes for Richard Panik and then look to re-sign Panik. They'll probably look for more bargain players such as Pirri and Maroon while insulating their roster by re-signing Khaira and Pulj
- WSCTeton17

No way the Oilers are going to give up their 1st as part of a package to dump Spooner. If they are offering that, Bowman should be first in line with an acceptance offer and a pick of any of the 20 defenceman he has in the stable.

The Blackhawks don't need to move Saad so they shouldn't retain any salary to do so.
Besides, he only has two more years on his deal after the one so I anticipate him coming into next season more focused than ever, which means waiting a year or two will bring a better return. And/or, keeping him means he's probably better next year and the year after; especially if the team signs a legit RW to play on a line with he and Toews.

I wouldn't retain salary for anyone unless it was a pretty sweet return.

I think Kruger gets dealt.
- matt_ahrens

Kruger is perfect for the Leafs - PK man, 4th line center, UFA where no offence is needed or expected. 3rd or 4th round pick in return.[/img]

I am sure that if you explain farther what the so called right package is for Arizona to acquire iF Hjalmarsson is sent to the Leafs, it has to be at least somewhat of an overpayment.

What sort of prospects, young players would Arizona want considering the position and young talent they already have in place?

Hjalmarsson ia a good fit with all those offensive puck movers in Phoenix (and Oesterle seems to be a fit lately for them btw). So to move him, you have to really entice them with something they like - not just a good offer you would like them to accept. Maybe a draft choice is not what Arizona wants for Hjalmarsson. Toronto does not want to trade their dmen prospects (won't dive into that here). I think Arizona wants a young good Toronto forward/read: a center.

I don't know if Toronto feels going for Cup before salary cap hell? Because Lamoriello will surely tender a contract
and then does a Leaf player say no to a big offer? Just to stay in Toronto? Sticky wicket for Toronto to navigate
- jhawk59

Well said on the trade front. I would add that AZ gave up a younger defender to get the season Hjalmarsson in the first place. The Coyotes are looking to get into the playoffs. I 100% agree that a roster player with term only goes if an overpayment is made. I like Hyman but I don’t think he gets it done. I also don’t think TO wants to move anyone in season either otherwise I think Kadri would actually be a fit. I just don’t see it happening for TO

So what if Nurse is not playing well. Part of that is the teamattes aren't good enough, specifically defensemen. Nurse projects as a valued player even if he never becomes a strong top pairing guy. Edmonton has to hope that he works out. Why would they even consider trading him, unless they receive a ready and good dman in exchange. Top young dmen are coveted and not easily acquired. Edmonton needs to try to develop Nurse because they are not going to acquire a strong top four dman.

Anyone with common sense should be able to read the predicament Edmonton faces. It doesn't help that Nugent - Hopkins never developed into a top point scorer, since he could be a nice trading chip If he was a better player.

Loosing Sekera to Injury really hurts Edmonton. If at all possible they need to give Lucich away. If for no other reason than you rid themselves of his pricey contract.
- jhawk59

Nurse has value. RNH has the same cap hit as Saad (I believe) and is a point per game player right now. He’s pretty solid in his own right. Sekera is on his way back, as is Klefbom. The Oilers are looking for takers on Rattie and Spooner (they might have to entice people to take Spooner) and Rieder to clear cap space. In return they’re looking for depth scoring. Guys who make sense include: Maroon, Panik, MoJo if salary is retained or they take maybe Spooner, a 2nd and a prospect in return

I don’t see anyone taking on Lucic unless he rebounds, which in all honesty he might. Look at Dustin Brown, he’s rebounded into a pretty solid player once again

He scored all his points in the first 3 games. Went scoreless in the last 3 games.
- jv526

He was pretty unreal at the start of the playoffs. That one goal in particular was nasty. But you’re right, he was invisible much of the rest of the series

No way the Oilers are going to give up their 1st as part of a package to dump Spooner. If they are offering that, Bowman should be first in line with an acceptance offer and a pick of any of the 20 defenceman he has in the stable.
- RickJ

1st round picks literally go every year for players similar to Panik or worse. Panik had 44 two years ago, 35 last year, and is on a similar pace this year playing for a low scoring Coyotes squad. He is a pretty big upgrade over what they have in Edmonton rn. His 21 points would put him at 5th amongst Oiler forwards and that pace likely increases playing with Drais/McD/RNH. Panik also isn’t just some old rental. He’s under 30 and could possibly be re-signed at an amount the Oilers could handle so it’s also an auditon of sorts.

Players who recently went near the TDL for a 1st rounder that come to mind include Hanzal to the Wild and Vermette to the Hawks. Obviously that 1st for Vermette seemed like a huge price at the time, but you won the cup so it’s absolutely justified. Coburn also went for a 1st. It was a while ago now but Gaustad went for a 1st rounder back in the day. Kyle Quincey also went for a 1st.

So in Panik they’d be getting someone who comes into their top 6 and has shown that he can complement top line players in the past. They also lose $3.1MM in dead weight in Spooner in the process. Panik is possibly worth a 2nd on his own to a contender. The Caps had to give up the rights to Grubauer to get rid of Orpik for a year. Hell, the Oilers might have to add more than the 1st rounder. Who knows, should be fun to see

He was pretty unreal at the start of the playoffs. That one goal in particular was nasty. But you’re right, he was invisible much of the rest of the series
- WSCTeton17

Panarin should carefully consider where he signs if he became free agent. Chicago with Kane might have been his most fun

On another player movement situation, Edm should offer their #1 and Puljarvi - in effect two former #1's for one former #1. If that is what it takes since Parayji will play major TOI and not only fill a void but put the other dmen in a slot where they are a better fit

1st round picks literally go every year for players similar to Panik or worse. Panik had 44 two years ago, 35 last year, and is on a similar pace this year playing for a low scoring Coyotes squad. He is a pretty big upgrade over what they have in Edmonton rn. His 21 points would put him at 5th amongst Oiler forwards and that pace likely increases playing with Drais/McD/RNH. Panik also isn’t just some old rental. He’s under 30 and could possibly be re-signed at an amount the Oilers could handle so it’s also an auditon of sorts.

Players who recently went near the TDL for a 1st rounder that come to mind include Hanzal to the Wild and Vermette to the Hawks. Obviously that 1st for Vermette seemed like a huge price at the time, but you won the cup so it’s absolutely justified. Coburn also went for a 1st. It was a while ago now but Gaustad went for a 1st rounder back in the day. Kyle Quincey also went for a 1st.

So in Panik they’d be getting someone who comes into their top 6 and has shown that he can complement top line players in the past. They also lose $3.1MM in dead weight in Spooner in the process. Panik is possibly worth a 2nd on his own to a contender. The Caps had to give up the rights to Grubauer to get rid of Orpik for a year. Hell, the Oilers might have to add more than the 1st rounder. Who knows, should be fun to see
- WSCTeton17

Forgot I wanted to add to my thoughts on how the guy compares Chicago: The Oilers have said they’re good with where they’re at on D. Sekera and Klefbom are scheduled to be back shortly and the Oilers were rolling right along before Klefbom went down

They’re looking for scoring help up front. Panik adds that. Who compares to Panik on Chicago? Only one guy fits the bill. Dominik Kahun, but he has no proven track record so I think from that perspective the Oilers would want someone a bit more proven in a guy like Panik

Panarin should carefully consider where he signs if he became free agent. Chicago with Kane might have been his most fun.
- jhawk59

I’ve said it a couple times (not that I’m mad or holding you accountable for not reading all the posts) but I think Panarin back to Chicago makes sense a lot of sense. Why would Bowman dish out Hossa’s cap space, giving up young promising players like Vinne and Jordan in the process but then not take advantage of that cap space... I think he’s absolutely saving it for Panarin. A couple of teams make a lot of sense for Breadman, but I think one that makes soooo much sense is the Islanders. They’re killing it. If Lehner is the real deal and re-signs then they honestly have the room to bring in Erik Karlsson (or Gardiner) and Panarin and really make waves in the east next year

Forgot I wanted to add to my thoughts on how the guy compares Chicago: The Oilers have said they’re good with where they’re at on D. Sekera and Klefbom are scheduled to be back shortly and the Oilers were rolling right along before Klefbom went down

They’re looking for scoring help up front. Panik adds that. Who compares to Panik on Chicago? Only one guy fits the bill. Dominik Kahun, but he has no proven track record so I think from that perspective the Oilers would want someone a bit more proven in a guy5 like Panik
- WSCTeton17

Is Sekera going to be solid, playing without fear?

Is Sekera going to be solid, playing without fear?
- jhawk59

Do you foresee Yakamoto recalled and would you be comfortable if he earned a regular oppoetunity? If this worked out then Nugent-Hopkins could be.dealt

Has Mexico Hawk returned with a new handle?
- mohel

I was thinking the same thing

So what if Nurse is not playing well. Part of that is the teamattes aren't good enough, specifically defensemen. Nurse projects as a valued player even if he never becomes a strong top pairing guy. Edmonton has to hope that he works out. Why would they even consider trading him, unless they receive a ready and good dman in exchange. Top young dmen are coveted and not easily acquired. Edmonton needs to try to develop Nurse because they are not going to acquire a strong top four dman.

Anyone with common sense should be able to read the predicament Edmonton faces. It doesn't help that Nugent - Hopkins never developed into a top point scorer, since he could be a nice trading chip If he was a better player.

Loosing Sekera to Injury really hurts Edmonton. If at all possible they need to give Lucich away. If for no other reason than you rid themselves of his pricey contract.
- jhawk59

What are you talking about? Nuge has 46 points in 50 games while carrying Lucic most of the year. He's a fine player and someone we would rather build around than trade

Has Mexico Hawk returned with a new handle?
- mohel

LOL! Was going to post the same thing yesterday, though he apparently now resides in WY.

Edit - See Jack beat me to it.

What are you talking about? Nuge has 46 points in 50 games while carrying Lucic most of the year. He's a fine player and someone we would rather build around then trade
- gretzky

First of all, you are the authority, not myself about the Edm Oilers.

I was referring to what seems like RNH not living up to the high draft choice. I could check his annual point totals but I do recall he has been injured and missed time at least a couple instances.

Obviously the lack of good enough defense makes it more difficult to generate a lot of points

That being said, with the primary attention once McDavid came into the league (after RNH), I figured RNH won't face the top checking line or best offensive line each night. Even if RNH does not have Draisalti as a linemate, i figured he should score more IN PAST YEARS. I do not have stat's knowledge memorized. I see from your response he has amassed 46 in 51 hp this campaign which is I suppose ok on a bad team

I want to ask this; what upside do you see for RNH and would you consider trading him/what value do you say he holds

I'm curious to see if Matthews can up his game in the playoffs or be a regular season superstar playoff bum like Panarin. Last year in the playoffs Matthews looked very ordinary. If he doesn't pick it up he won't be worth the huge contract he wants
- paulr

Matthews is 21.

He produced 4+1=5 in 6 games against Washington two playoffs ago.

He’s 21.

I was just reading a article written by NBC sports and they talk about mid season coaching grades and they gave colliton a grade of B

I'm not sure what this writter was smoking or if he is a mouth piec3 for Bowman, but any fair realistic person would not give a new coach took over a team 4 weeks into the season and has a losing record and last place team epic failure sums up his grade F

We can talk about personal and learning new systems but we have history in many different sports where a coaching change is made and the team responds and makes the playoffs.

Matthews is 21.

He produced 4+1=5 in 6 games against Washington two playoffs ago.

He’s 21.
- StLBravesFan

I agree he's 21, I'm curious to see if he can pick up his game in the playoffs.

I watch most Leaf games and Matthews is in his element when the game is more wide open. In tighter checking physical games he is seldom a factor. Add to that, since his shoulder injury earlier this season he's been shying away from physical confrontations. I'm curious to see him in the playoffs this season, especially if they play the Bruins.

I was just reading a article written by NBC sports and they talk about mid season coaching grades and they gave colliton a grade of B

I'm not sure what this writter was smoking or if he is a mouth piec3 for Bowman, but any fair realistic person would not give a new coach took over a team 4 weeks into the season and has a losing record and last place team epic failure sums up his grade F

We can talk about personal and learning new systems but we have history in many different sports where a coaching change is made and the team responds and makes the playoffs.
- Taylorst1

Those teams had enough experienced talent to perform better.

This team doesn’t.

Altho TBF to Colliton - they are playing much better the past 20 games under him than they did at all this season (and the last half of last season) under Quenneville.

Those teams had enough experienced talent to perform better.

This team doesn’t.

Altho TBF to Colliton - they are playing much better the past 20 games under him than they did at all this season (and the last half of last season) under Quenneville.
- StLBravesFan

A voice of reason.

Those teams had enough experienced talent to perform better.

This team doesn’t.

Altho TBF to Colliton - they are playing much better the past 20 games under him than they did at all this season (and the last half of last season) under Quenneville.
- StLBravesFan

So when like Yeo, took over for Minnesota did that team or even st Louis really have that much more or even better talent? I'm not really sold on that argument alone. Also to say they have played better over the last 20 games is really stretching things for a team that is in last place and gives up a league lead in goals .

However my entire point any rationale person would give colliton at best a D and worse case a F.

A grade level of a B is down right living in fantasy land

Has Mexico Hawk returned with a new handle?
- mohel

LMAO I THOUGHT THE SAME THING

Has Mexico Hawk returned with a new handle?
- mohel

I go on vacation and now am scrolling through the posts and I am absolutely going to post that we have a new Mexico Hawk and a few guys beat me to it. This ought to be good for a while.