Mr. R. - thanks for the reminder. I meant to put this in the blog. Check this game out if you can guys and gals.
- Justin Lowe

Justin, sorry to hear about your sump pump problems. Maybe bury the discharge hose?

Would love to get your feedback on the lil ole USHL, the league getting more players drafted than the QMJHL and WHL on an annual basis now. As a Canadian you understand the beauty, importance and down right fantastic play at the jr level I would love to get your feedback on the USHL Fargo @ Muskegon game tonight as well as your thoughts on Hawk property Hakkarainen. ............

Muskegon is loaded. Hak skates with 2 Cossacks. Projected top 15 pick this yr Yegor Afanasyev and 02 waterbug Guschin. But they just added a Brandon Gallagher type in Max Ellis for the stretch run and have been pairing Hak and him some shifts.

Fun team Muskegon. Top scoring team in the league, 2nd in GA, 2nd best goalie and will play the body, knock people down and fight. Jagger Joshua is their Tom Wilson. 20 pts in 30 games and 100 PIM..... Fargo are the defending champs.

Free on Hockey TV, puck drop at 6:15. https://www.hockeytv.com/#/my_hockeytv/my_feed

Also the Chicago Steel have traded for Hawk draft pick Josiah Slavin who wore a C with his old club, Lincoln. 10 bucks to see him and the Steel at Fox Valley. Steel in 2nd place playing .643 hockey behind Muskegon.

* CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS acquire: Anders Bjork from BOSTON BRUINS for Chris Kunitz and John Hayden

These proposals would never be accepted by the opposing teams.

Why waste your time coming up with proposals that don't factor in what the other team is looking for or needs, and what their cap space allows?

You are essentially shaving half of your face, which is kind of lazy.
- Jack Straw

Have you read Justin's blogs? If you had you'd know this guy is anything but lazy.

Justin i did not propose any trades even though that is what i like to do are these trades you have proposed have any validity to them in the sense of what the hawks are looking to do or is it you playing arm chair gm like the rest of us. I did like Anaheim and Tampa trades the rest not so much. Saad pesche instead of Hamilton plus in your direction for the hawks is all over bthe place are the rebuild mode or going for it. Phily trade if a 1st and morin is added then yes but if you be going after simmonds rather the hawks try and get josh Anderson from Columbus. All in all not bad ideas for trades.
- Scott1977

My guess if the Hawks make a trade(s) it will be a Caligula, Duclair type deal unless they decide to move and get 2nd rd pick value for Gus. With an organIzational logjam at defense and if the Hawks are not targeting 19/20 as a yr to win they just might move Gus.

Philly has that same logjam at D and with a new GM they just might move a Morin, Hagg, Gudas. The latter two would fit nicely as #4 Dmen on the Hawk roster but that would do little to loosen the D logjam of their own.

I think it's safe to say, like most teams fans, he's being overvalued by those who are a fan of the Canes. Not saying he isn't a legit Top 4 Offensive D-Man that could put up 40-50 points year in and year out or have a breakout 60+ point year, but I think there's some debate as to how good he really is. Like I said, I think he's Top 4 but not elite. All that really matters is what the Canes think of him, and what they would be willing to accept to move him out. Beauty is all in the eye of the beholder and that which they covet.
- Savetheembers33

Right, compensation is key, as always. IMO Hamilton's floor is 40 pts with ++ fancies, although his career average is 40 pts per game and his ceiling is 60+ points with great fancies. ......... As mentioned, an enigma of sorts to me.

The debate is not that he is a good player its why isn't he a great one.

LMAO what are you talking about?

Dude is controlling 60% of shots and scoring chances at 5v5 and is struggling points wise due to a PDO of 96...
- Feds91Stammer

A snap shot. His career average is .50 pts per game, 40 point season, over 475 games. The PDO argument doesn't fly looking at the larger sample, Red Army man......... Is this where I add an LOL or LMAO or a clever emoji?

A snap shot. His career average is .50 pts per game, 40 point season, over 475 games. The PDO argument doesn't fly looking at the larger sample, Red Army man......... Is this where I add an LOL or LMAO or a clever emoji?
- Mr Ricochet

Nah, I think it’s best just to ignore his posts outright. Seems like he’s stirring the pot in just about every thread I’ve seen him in, namely Eklund ones.

Nah, I think it’s best just to ignore his posts outright. Seems like he’s stirring the pot in just about every thread I’ve seen him in, namely Eklund ones.
- TommyHawk

THawk, you gonna watch Hawk property Hakkarainen in that free USHL game tonight? Great introduction to the league if you've never seen it. https://www.hockeytv.com/#/schedule

Been around HBuzz for awhile so I've seen a few Detroilet Red Army fans come thru. Just feel obligated to engage when they come by, other fans not so much.

THawk, you gonna watch Hawk property Hakkarainen in that free USHL game tonight? Great introduction to the league if you've never seen it. https://www.hockeytv.com/#/schedule

Been around HBuzz for awhile so I've seen a few Detroilet Red Army fans come thru. Just feel obligated to engage when they come by, other fans not so much.
- Mr Ricochet

Thanks for the heads up on that. I don’t know much about this kid so I would normally tune in, but unfortunately I won’t be home to be able to watch. If you’re watching, would love to hear some of your feedback however! Seems like since Wiz hasn’t been around it’s a lot harder to get insight on some of these kids, but I know that you’ve been keeping us abreast so I appreciate it!

A snap shot. His career average is .50 pts per game, 40 point season, over 475 games. The PDO argument doesn't fly looking at the larger sample, Red Army man......... Is this where I add an LOL or LMAO or a clever emoji?
- Mr Ricochet

A "snapshot" that stands pretty consistent across his whole career. Controlling ~60% of the shot share and scoring ~40-50 points aren't mutually exclusive. Hamilton is an effective 40-50 point, top-3 Dman that drives possession results in a very favourable direction but- as with most players- he needs skill to play with in order to maximize the results in those minutes (converting shot-share into goal-share).

Accounting for his below-normal scoring pace, his on-ice shooting % is down a tad this year, but only about a 1-1.25% dip from his average and he's not generating as many individual HD chances as he did last year (he's not activating as much).

I think your argument has a leg to stand on in that he might well be overrated/overvalued, but their argument that Saad doesn't get you close to Hamilton is completely reasonable- especially when you factor in what they traded in order to acquire him.

A "snapshot" that stands pretty consistent across his whole career. Controlling ~60% of the shot share and scoring ~40-50 points aren't mutually exclusive. Hamilton is an effective 40-50 point, top-3 Dman that drives possession results in a very favourable direction but- as with most players- he needs skill to play with in order to maximize the results in those minutes (converting shot-share into goal-share).

Accounting for his below-normal scoring pace, his on-ice shooting % is down a tad this year, but only about a 1-1.25% dip from his average and he's not generating as many individual HD chances as he did last year (he's not activating as much).

I think your argument has a leg to stand on in that he might well be overrated/overvalued, but their argument that Saad doesn't get you close to Hamilton is completely reasonable- especially when you factor in what they traded in order to acquire him.
- MaximumBone

Helpful post....... I'm not saying Hamilton is overrated or over valued only that, as you point out with the fancies, with this 25 yr olds tools he's under performed. I'm a fan but IF he were available do you value him at what he's done over 475 NHL games or what his skills say he's worth? .........If you value him for what he's done Saad ain't too far off but would agree isn't quite enough even so if only that Dmen are more valuable.

Do not think it matters, as you point out they gave up a ton for him, those players have taken off with career yrs, Hamilton won't be traded anytime soon.

Helpful post....... I'm not saying Hamilton is overrated or over valued only that, as you point out with the fancies, with this 25 yr olds tools he's under performed. I'm a fan but IF he were available do you value him at what he's done over 475 NHL games or what his skills say he's worth? .........If you value him for what he's done Saad ain't too far off but would agree isn't quite enough even so if only that Dmen are more valuable.

Do not think it matters, as you point out they gave up a ton for him, those players have taken off with career yrs, Hamilton won't be traded anytime soon.
- Mr Ricochet

I'd disagree that he's underperformed. A 40-50 point, possession-driving Dman that's under the age of 25 isn't a player that should be taken lightly. Considering how substantial a change the league has undergone these past few years (goalie pad changes, greater focus of speed & skill, etc), I'd be inclined to suggest Hamilton's struggles are just him adapting to the step the league has taken and a new team. We saw much of the same in his first year in Calgary where he struggled the first 40-45 games and then lit it up down the stretch.

I think the main discrepancy in value is the difference between a W and a D. As an Oilers fan, I've obviously seen this difference in valuation be taken to an extreme (Hall for Larsson) and in no way am I suggesting this should be the benchmark everyone follows, but it's worth noting that difference.

I think Hamilton and Saad are weirdly similar upon deeper analysis. Both are noted possession drivers that generally outscore at 5-on-5 while getting minutes with the better players on their teams, but struggle to produce on the PP as much as their 5-on-5 numbers would make you think they should. While you could argue it's not always them driving the results, it has remained consistent across enough linemates that it's hard to deny or disprove.

Dougie seems to have an overall greater impact, but that can be somewhat chocked up to getting more favourable minutes as an offensive D compared to Saad's role as a member of a line-matching line (partners with Toews).

I'd disagree that he's underperformed. A 40-50 point, possession-driving Dman that's under the age of 25 isn't a player that should be taken lightly. Considering how substantial a change the league has undergone these past few years (goalie pad changes, greater focus of speed & skill, etc), I'd be inclined to suggest Hamilton's struggles are just him adapting to the step the league has taken and a new team. We saw much of the same in his first year in Calgary where he struggled the first 40-45 games and then lit it up down the stretch.

I think the main discrepancy in value is the difference between a W and a D. As an Oilers fan, I've obviously seen this difference in valuation be taken to an extreme (Hall for Larsson) and in no way am I suggesting this should be the benchmark everyone follows, but it's worth noting that difference.

I think Hamilton and Saad are weirdly similar upon deeper analysis. Both are noted possession drivers that generally outscore at 5-on-5 while getting minutes with the better players on their teams, but struggle to produce on the PP as much as their 5-on-5 numbers would make you think they should. While you could argue it's not always them driving the results, it has remained consistent across enough linemates that it's hard to deny or disprove.

Dougie seems to have an overall greater impact, but that can be somewhat chocked up to getting more favourable minutes as an offensive D compared to Saad's role as a member of a line-matching line (partners with Toews).
- MaximumBone

With his +++ fancies I'd assume Hamilton is a good bit under his expected GF or points for. I think the fancies will say he's under performed............. Similar players I wanted to see swapped was Saad for Neiderriter. Both possession beasts but to my eye Neiderrieter brings it every shift, Saad once in awhile and Nino is the more physical player.

What is the story on Grundstrom? Late 2nd rounder a few years ago, one more year after this on his deal, still in the AHL. And what kind of draft pick can Kruger get at the TDL? What could the Hawks get for Hayden? Is this trade just a nonevent otherwise?

I think it's safe to say, like most teams fans, he's being overvalued by those who are a fan of the Canes. Not saying he isn't a legit Top 4 Offensive D-Man that could put up 40-50 points year in and year out or have a breakout 60+ point year, but I think there's some debate as to how good he really is. Like I said, I think he's Top 4 but not elite. All that really matters is what the Canes think of him, and what they would be willing to accept to move him out. Beauty is all in the eye of the beholder and that which they covet.
- Savetheembers33

Ok, well according to the analysts at NHL.com from their August post they rank Hamilton as the 18th best all around defensemen in the league. So, I mean technically these guys are fans too but they’re also paid to analyze players and they seem to agree with Bingo.

I’m also not a Canes fan, just a big fan of the game. These proposals arent good and really undervalue the opposition and overvalue Saad. I hope they do move on from Hamilton and I hope it’s to one of the teams I enjoy cheering for, but who knows. If I’m Florida I offer up Bjugstad and throw a couple picks and prospects, obviously including a 1st, for Hamilton

What is the story on Grundstrom? Late 2nd rounder a few years ago, one more year after this on his deal, still in the AHL. And what kind of draft pick can Kruger get at the TDL? What could the Hawks get for Hayden? Is this trade just a nonevent otherwise?
- 333inthe3rd

Didn't realize this 21 yr old had 150 pro games in Sveden before he came over. https://www.eliteprospect...er/113516/carl-grundstrom

Gus for Joel Eriksson Ek. Big centerman 4th line floor middle 6 ceiling?

DeBrincat + 3rd for Lucic.

#grit

Only my 2nd post, so be gentle lol.

My opinion is ownership/FO wants to win over then next 5 years of Kane/Toews contracts, until they’re 35 and then in decline.

Reviewing 2009-10 roster that won the Cup, a large portion of the roster was 22-26 yrs old, with a few exceptions...Hossa, Sopel, Madden to name a few.

I feel SB will look to Target this 22-26 age group in trades. Or, stockpile draft picks to then trade for RFAs on cap tight teams in the off-season (Toronto, TB, and Winnipeg). Maybe a top 3 protected 2020 1st pick (plus mid-level prospects) to Winnipeg for LW Connor or RHD Trouba? Drafting an 18yr old D generally takes a few years to mature (Joki the exception, but could have used 1-2 years to develop) Keith spent 2 years in AHL and was 22yrs when he joined the Hawks.

For discussions sake, if Hawks get #1 overall in draft would you trade
For C Matthews, C/RW Marner, or RW/LW Laine (not saying the teams would actually do it, or that 1st overall would be enough in some cases)

Here's my never gonna happen, pipe dream of a trade:

Saad, Keith, Gustafson, top 3 protected 2020 & 2021 1st round picks for RHD Trouba, LHD Morrissey, and either LW Ehlers/Connor

I'm once again sorry for the long post, but at least I separated into paragraphs this time lol

Ok, well according to the analysts at NHL.com from their August post they rank Hamilton as the 18th best all around defensemen in the league. So, I mean technically these guys are fans too but they’re also paid to analyze players and they seem to agree with Bingo.

I’m also not a Canes fan, just a big fan of the game. These proposals arent good and really undervalue the opposition and overvalue Saad. I hope they do move on from Hamilton and I hope it’s to one of the teams I enjoy cheering for, but who knows. If I’m Florida I offer up Bjugstad and throw a couple picks and prospects, obviously including a 1st, for Hamilton
- WSCTeton17

Speaking of overvalued...

If I’m trying to acquire anyone from Florida not named Barkov/Ekblad, I am absolutely trying to get Trocheck.

Speaking of overvalued...

If I’m trying to acquire anyone from Florida not named Barkov/Ekblad, I am absolutely trying to get Trocheck.
- TommyHawk

Well everyone is talking about an underperforming “top 4” defender. I’m not saying Bjugstad is some awesome piece but he’s got some potential still and he’s got term. I would flood the deal with futures including a lottery protected first, he’ll make it 2 firsts and some prospects but I think the deal that gets Hamilton will be from a team looking to contend this year/next and the deal will be loaded with futures with a current, non-star roster player. I’m not a Florida fan either, I just think it makes sense

Well everyone is talking about an underperforming “top 4” defender. I’m not saying Bjugstad is some awesome piece but he’s got some potential still and he’s got term. I would flood the deal with futures including a lottery protected first, he’ll make it 2 firsts and some prospects but I think the deal that gets Hamilton will be from a team looking to contend this year/next and the deal will be loaded with futures with a current, non-star roster player. I’m not a Florida fan either, I just think it makes sense
- WSCTeton17

Bjugstad and 2 1sts AND prospects is still a hefty price. Not sure I’d part with that. He’s not an elite player.

I’m curious to see what Florida does though moving forward. Not sure what their cap situation is without looking it up, but they are a team that desperately needs to add another star-level player. Panarin makes a LOT of sense for them.

DeBrincat + 3rd for Lucic.

#grit
- DarthKane

And Boqvist, Mitchell and a 4th for Matt Martin.

#moregrit #nevertoomuchtougness



Get er done Stan

Bjugstad and 2 1sts AND prospects is still a hefty price. Not sure I’d part with that. He’s not an elite player.

I’m curious to see what Florida does though moving forward. Not sure what their cap situation is without looking it up, but they are a team that desperately needs to add another star-level player. Panarin makes a LOT of sense for them.
- TommyHawk

My “deal” that I was proposing was for both Hamilton and Ferland with the belief that Hamilton is a star. Like I said earlier, NHL analysts had him ranked 18th amongst all NHL defenders prior to the season. Some would have him higher than that.

I think Bjugstad along with 2 lottery protected firsts and some prospects is something that can make sense for both teams

My “deal” that I was proposing was for both Hamilton and Ferland with the belief that Hamilton is a star. Like I said earlier, NHL analysts had him ranked 18th amongst all NHL defenders prior to the season. Some would have him higher than that.

I think Bjugstad along with 2 lottery protected firsts and some prospects is something that can make sense for both teams
- WSCTeton17

I think the value is fine but I think if you look at both teams current situations it doesn’t make a lot sense for either team. Florida’s not making the playoffs this year neither is Carolina without a serious tear after the all star break(I’d put the odds under 5%). So why even bother lottery protecting the picks it’s like trading a pick that will definitely become a 2020 pick(which is why they couldn’t be since that pick would already belong to Carolina). I might would even debate that you got the seller/buyer flipped. But I don’t think the value is entirely too far off.