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Forums :: Blog World :: Justin Lowe: I Have a Rumor
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jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 9:02 PM ET
DeBrincat and Schmaltz untouchable. I would move up from #27 to get Merkley. Hawks must get Merkley.
- Z3Hawk

I see equally good pro con to go after Merkely or Samuelson. Your viewpoint is based on going after the pure talent offensive prospect no matter his immaturity. That immaturity issue probably is a non issue in a few years anyway.

Can you agree that Samuelson is not a bad choice if Merkely goes higher?

If no trade to move up you have to like what the scouting report says for #27 Dellandra
Theo Fox
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.18.2016

May 21 @ 9:08 PM ET
I see equally good pro con to go after Merkely or Samuelson. Your viewpoint is based on going after the pure talent offensive prospect no matter his immaturity. That immaturity issue probably is a non issue in a few years anyway.

Can you agree that Samuelson is not a bad choice if Merkely goes higher?

If no trade to move up you have to like what the scouting report says for #27 Dellandra

- jhawk59

Couldn't find any articles that give specifics but what exactly is Merkley's immaturity issue?
Scott1977
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Yorkville, IL
Joined: 08.30.2012

May 21 @ 9:11 PM ET
DeBrincat and Schmaltz untouchable. I would move up from #27 to get Merkley. Hawks must get Merkley.
- Z3Hawk

Do consider smaltz being a better player playing at center or wing lw specifically? My opinion I would put him on lw in the top 6 draft a center with 8th overall pick velno or the big finn who's name escapes me right now. Need to find center depth not much of it in the system.
DarthKane
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: 5.13.4.9
Joined: 02.23.2012

May 21 @ 9:20 PM ET
Do consider smaltz being a better player playing at center or wing lw specifically? My opinion I would put him on lw in the top 6 draft a center with 8th overall pick velno or the big finn who's name escapes me right now. Need to find center depth not much of it in the system.
- Scott1977



I prefer Schmaltz at centre, but he needs to improve on face-offs.
Theo Fox
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.18.2016

May 21 @ 9:26 PM ET
I prefer Schmaltz at centre, but he needs to improve on face-offs.
- DarthKane

I was going to say the same thing. Get him a power forward on his wing too.

Consider a new faceoff coach. Perreault doesn't seem to cut the mustard.
SoftServe
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Chicago, IL
Joined: 01.19.2016

May 21 @ 9:33 PM ET
Tom Wilson 😍
jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 9:37 PM ET
Couldn't find any articles that give specifics but what exactly is Merkley's immaturity issue?
- AEL_Fox

Arguing with head coach, not getting along with teamattes, he is portrayd as outsider shunning his teamattes/feeling he is special talent deserving special treatment .... here is where I do not recall exactly.....it was clearly his age and his immaturity the focal point. His ice time too TOI

More playing time, linemates he plays with?
It may have been on wiz draftsite.com player review. The report was mentioned once many blogs topics back. As in many blogs column/topics ago by Justin. Although I do not think it was Justin with the comments about Merkely.
Tyler Cameron
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Toronto, ON
Joined: 10.31.2017

May 21 @ 9:53 PM ET
Scott Powers@ByScottPowers
The Blackhawks have agreed to terms with defenseman Lucas Carlsson on a three-year deal and forward Dominik Kahun, defenseman Darren Raddysh and goalie Kevin Lankinen on two-year deals

Kevin Lankinen had a strong season with Hifk in FEL and lot of their fans think Lankinen is the best goalie they ever had and there have been Tim Thomas and Thomas Vokoun for example. Played only 15 regular season games due to injury but had 1.33 gaa and 0,946 save %. Smart kid and good person too.

- MjulQvist


Some good signings today guys and gals.

We knew about Kahun; he is likely Rockford bound but let's see what he has in camp this year.

Carsslon has nice potential to make an impact on the backend in the next couple of years. He will have a lot of competition though. The Hawks have 459 defencemen signed for next year.

Speaking of dmen... Raddysh had a solid first season in the AHL and is a RHD. Makes sense they locked him in.

The Finnish goalie makes sense from what I was hearing. Had a couple contacts tell me they were looking for a creative and/or sneaky goalie signing over the summer. Question is, will Lankinen be Lars Johansson or Antti Niemi... or somewhere in between. Sounds like he will head be in the AHL or ECHL depending on how the goaltending situation plays out this offseason.


jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 10:01 PM ET
Do consider smaltz being a better player playing at center or wing lw specifically? My opinion I would put him on lw in the top 6 draft a center with 8th overall pick velno or the big finn who's name escapes me right now. Need to find center depth not much of it in the system.
- Scott1977


If the big Finn you mean Ejdsell - whose name is spelled dj then sell, i cannot quite figure out what players he slots with.

Really that is because I need to see him play more and I believe his game progresses the more he gets stronger, gets to be a better skater, figures out how to apply his talent in the North American game.

He has a good shot, had excellent vision and passing ability when in traffic, but is he a center or wing? Not a physical player but maybe he will battle (how hard) in board skirmishes. He can be a real threat with his ability and reach for a big man. But is he a net front presence or more lurches around net for opportunities. A scorer, not a boards guy. Skating probably will improve and it is deceptive too. I saw enough to believe that he can play NHL. Just needs to improve on things and learn how to use his giftedness.

Oh all that just to say I would not project him on a line in Chicago at least first half of season. He is better served playing a lot in Rockford.
Tyler Cameron
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Toronto, ON
Joined: 10.31.2017

May 21 @ 10:08 PM ET
Rockford lost both games, down 2-0 in their playoff match against the Texas Stars. Close games perhaps. Hoping Justin or someone will tell us the details.
- jhawk59


Blog coming out tomorrow am.

Rough start to the series for the 'Hogs.
Tyler Cameron
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Toronto, ON
Joined: 10.31.2017

May 21 @ 10:13 PM ET
On May 18th, the Florida writer posed a possible trade with Chicago:

To FLA:
Brent Seabrook

To Chicago:
2nd rd pick and
50% retained

or

3rd rd pick and
30% retained.

I might consider the 3rd with 30% retained...

- Chunk


I have been chatting to Mark and was going to do a counter blog to his Seabrook thoughts.
jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 10:13 PM ET
Blog coming out tomorrow am.

Rough start to the series for the 'Hogs.

- Justin Lowe

Thanks Justin. Icehogs play games three and four Tues, Thursday in Rockford. Wonder if Glass will get in? Wonder if Forsling had played well?
Theo Fox
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.18.2016

May 21 @ 10:16 PM ET
If the big Finn you mean Ejdsell - whose name is spelled dj then sell, i cannot quite figure out what players he slots with.

Really that is because I need to see him play more and I believe his game progresses the more he gets stronger, gets to be a better skater, figures out how to apply his talent in the North American game.

He has a good shot, had excellent vision and passing ability when in traffic, but is he a center or wing? Not a physical player but maybe he will battle (how hard) in board skirmishes. He can be a real threat with his ability and reach for a big man. But is he a net front presence or more lurches around net for opportunities. A scorer, not a boards guy. Skating probably will improve and it is deceptive too. I saw enough to believe that he can play NHL. Just needs to improve on things and learn how to use his giftedness.

Oh all that just to say I would not project him on a line in Chicago at least first half of season. He is better served playing a lot in Rockford.

- jhawk59

I believe Scott is referring to Kotkaniemi. Ejdsell is Swedish.

Agree, though, to let Ejdsell develop in Rockford. Like Delia in goal and blueline prospects like Carlsson, Jokiharju, Hillman, Gilbert, and Raddysh, let them get experience and adequate training in the AHL for at least a year if not two before earning extended time on the big club. No need to rush them.
Scott1977
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Yorkville, IL
Joined: 08.30.2012

May 21 @ 10:16 PM ET
If the big Finn you mean Ejdsell - whose name is spelled dj then sell, i cannot quite figure out what players he slots with.

Really that is because I need to see him play more and I believe his game progresses the more he gets stronger, gets to be a better skater, figures out how to apply his talent in the North American game.

He has a good shot, had excellent vision and passing ability when in traffic, but is he a center or wing? Not a physical player but maybe he will battle (how hard) in board skirmishes. He can be a real threat with his ability and reach for a big man. But is he a net front presence or more lurches around net for opportunities. A scorer, not a boards guy. Skating probably will improve and it is deceptive too. I saw enough to believe that he can play NHL. Just needs to improve on things and learn how to use his giftedness.

Oh all that just to say I would not project him on a line in Chicago at least first half of season. He is better served playing a lot in Rockford.

- jhawk59

Jesperi kotaniemi I thought edjisell was winger
Tyler Cameron
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Toronto, ON
Joined: 10.31.2017

May 21 @ 10:24 PM ET
Thanks Justin. Icehogs play games three and four Tues, Thursday in Rockford. Wonder if Glass will get in? Wonder if Forsling had played well?
- jhawk59


Delia has been lights on for most of the playoffs, Glass may get in for Game 4 if Tuesday's match doesn't go in favour of the good guys.

Forsling has been solid. His ice time/need has been suppressed due to the great play and production by Franson and Clendening.
Z3Hawk
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 05.04.2017

May 21 @ 10:34 PM ET
Couldn't find any articles that give specifics but what exactly is Merkley's immaturity issue?
- AEL_Fox


I’ve read about Merkley. He was drafted 1st into the OHL. As a 16 year old won Rookie of the Year. Played and plays on a really bad Guelph Storm team. Some say hogs puck, seems arrogant. I think just trying to do too much on poor team. Played for Canada at Ivan Hkinka Tournament. Played great, scored lots when still 16. Absolutely amazing videos of him at this tournament. Incredible skater with incredible vision and flair. Saw interview from Tourney as well - seemed very intelligent and composed. I think he is a victim of being so talented at a young age - he may seem arrogant without intending. Even if he has an immature arrogant streak so what? In any event he’ll grow out of. Has great high end skating and skill.
bogiedoc
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: VA
Joined: 09.27.2011

May 21 @ 10:38 PM ET
outstanding game by the caps...

bolts need to return the favor in G7
Scott1977
Season Ticket Holder
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Yorkville, IL
Joined: 08.30.2012

May 21 @ 10:40 PM ET
I believe Scott is referring to Kotkaniemi. Ejdsell is Swedish.

Agree, though, to let Ejdsell develop in Rockford. Like Delia in goal and blueline prospects like Carlsson, Jokiharju, Hillman, Gilbert, and Raddysh, let them get experience and adequate training in the AHL for at least a year if not two before earning extended time on the big club. No need to rush them.

- AEL_Fox

Agree with you fox don't rush them like they did with smaltz and forsling let get confidence and learn what it is to be a pro.
powerenforcer
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Wheeling, IL
Joined: 09.24.2009

May 21 @ 10:49 PM ET
outstanding game by the caps...

bolts need to return the favor in G7

- bogiedoc



Bolts are dead if the refs wake up and call all the interference TB gets away with.
BetweenTheDots
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: IL
Joined: 06.13.2015

May 21 @ 11:10 PM ET
Really nice game by Holtby, they'll need another game like this one if they want to advance. Still give up to many odd man chances

Bolts just not as tenacious tonight on the forecheck/backcheck.

First goal in game 7, most likely that team will win, unless the Bolts get plenty of power play chances.
Slofire94
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: CA
Joined: 01.17.2016

May 21 @ 11:21 PM ET
Couldn't find any articles that give specifics but what exactly is Merkley's immaturity issue?
- AEL_Fox


Nothing the "intangibles" in our room couldn't fix...
Toews, Seabrook, now's the time to earn your salary!
jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 11:41 PM ET
I’ve read about Merkley. He was drafted 1st into the OHL. As a 16 year old won Rookie of the Year. Played and plays on a really bad Guelph Storm team. Some say hogs puck, seems arrogant. I think just trying to do too much on poor team. Played for Canada at Ivan Hkinka Tournament. Played great, scored lots when still 16. Absolutely amazing videos of him at this tournament. Incredible skater with incredible vision and flair. Saw interview from Tourney as well - seemed very intelligent and composed. I think he is a victim of being so talented at a young age - he may seem arrogant without intending. Even if he has an immature arrogant streak so what? In any event he’ll grow out of. Has great high end skating and skill.
- Z3Hawk


Hey Z,
This is exactly the material I read. And I agree he is more a victim of circumstance.

I am switching topics now. We do not agree 100% on everything you write about the Ulf Samuelson system. But that is ok as this is just a bit d to express opinions. You do make your viewpoint sound sometimes like a be all and it cannot possibly be any other way. So you are passionate about your viewpoint. The thing this board needs to accept is to not be mudslingers if someone disagreed. And bloggers need to consult a thesaurus or whatever to find less offensive words when they disagree.

So I can say all that because I am not going g to get bent out of shape if we do not agree on everything you state about your discord over Ulfie

Now using that as a springboard or segway about an earlier post of mine about first round draft rating - wiz update - my thoughts on certain draft slots.

I have found it ironic that you happen to see a real skill guy whom might become a first round steal in Merkely ....he might be still available if we move up from #27. Failing to land him, and after reading Samuelson kid's review ....wouldn't you like to draft his kid.

He is acknowledged as the best of Ulfie's three sons. His one son has been signed now by Rockford and I think Chicago can bring him to training camp, maybe even the rookies camp. He may no longer have contractual ties to Arizona. He is a depth physical forward who might develop after all. Not perhaps up to his first round status as a top prospect. But there might be something to keeping him around.

Anyway draft Samuelson's kid if Merkely is gone. I tend to want to take Samuelson over Merkely because he is a giant and plays exactly how we need one our dmen to play. We might not easily get anyone like him in the following years. However, I understand Merkely could be a steal. He probably is gone earlier than you think. Some GM will draft him higher than wiz rates him.
jhawk59
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 02.15.2013

May 21 @ 11:55 PM ET
Late night early morning readers,

Who wins game seven between Washington and Tampa?!
Could it be a goaltender win?

Then Vegas wins the Cup. A storybook season. Bettman grinning ear to ear.
bogiedoc
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: VA
Joined: 09.27.2011

May 22 @ 12:31 AM ET
Bolts are dead if the refs wake up and call all the interference TB gets away with.
- powerenforcer


there were plenty of "play on" crosscheck and interference by both teams...a typical game officiated by ohallorhan...
bogiedoc
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: VA
Joined: 09.27.2011

May 22 @ 12:33 AM ET
Late night early morning readers,

Who wins game seven between Washington and Tampa?!
Could it be a goaltender win?

Then Vegas wins the Cup. A storybook season. Bettman grinning ear to ear.

- jhawk59


bolts will win G7 and beat the knights....but MAF is CS winner...

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