THE NYI’S PRACTICAL GUIDE TO FREE AGENCY
Taking his time, Cool Hand Snow will get his men
CB at FanHouse: news of Volchenkov, Martin
FanHouse: The Top 50 44 Free Agents
Lighthouse Hockey blog: Dominik on NYI Free Agency
3:15 pm: As the unrestricted free agent market sets to open on Thursday at noon, the Islanders have an estimated $6-8 million they will eventually have to spend in contracts for 2010-11 just to reach the CBA-mandated salary cap floor.
The Islanders’ shopping list is expected to include the following:
- One potential top-four defenseman
- One reliable, experienced, tough third-pair defenseman
- One potential top-six forward
- One reliable, experienced, rugged, penalty-killing, bottom-six foward
- One low-maintenance backup goaltender
- Size. The Islanders’ prospect pool has been filled with some big bodies. The Islanders’ current NHL roster? Not so much.
Do not – repeat, do not – expect Garth Snow to have all of his shopping done by the Fourth of July. He may have only one or two of the above signed by the end of the weekend. As he has wisely done in the past, Snow will wait as several good players slip through the cracks and begin to get nervous after the first ten days of July. For the kind of players Snow wants and needs out of this year’s crop, there is no rush.
This is not a top-heavy free agent market filled with stars. This actually works out well for the Islanders. While Ilya Kovalchuk might go to LA, Snow and his staff can look at a host of top-9 forwards – many whom would fit in nicely with the slow and steady rebuild. Among the available forwards:
Lee Stempniak
Alexander Frolov
Matthew Lombardi
Maxim Afinogenov
Raffi Torres
Dominic Moore
Chris Higgins
Colby Armstrong
All of the above are 30 years old (Afinogenov) and younger.
While top defensemen like Anton Volchenkov, Dan Hamhuis and injury-prone Willie Mitchell are almost certain to go elsewhere, Snow and his staff will still analyze the market for a large number of quality defensemen. Among those available:
Paul Martin
Andy Sutton
Zbynek Michalek
Pavel Kubina
Henrik Tallinder
Randy Jones
Jordan Leopold
Brett Lebda
Derek Morris
Joe Corvo
Kurtis Foster
Like last year, when Snow could not pass up the opportunity to sign Martin Biron for $1.4 million, goaltenders will be available to him at great rates – especially if, as is his style, he tells all agents he doesn’t feel the immediate pressure to sign one. There are more UFA goalies than desirous teams in this summer’s market. If the Islanders add a goalie, it probably won’t be for a while.
And that’s okay. Snow has higher priorities. Remember, his publicly-stated goal is for his Islanders to make the playoffs next season.
About that shopping list above: the key word may have to be “potential,” as in potential top-six-forward and potential top-four defenseman. If Snow cannot get any of the bonafide top veterans to sign, he’ll court younger players that have yet to blossom.
Getting a Matt Moulson every summer is an accomplishment you cannot expect of any hockey staff, but the Islanders will try again. From Mark Streit to Dwayne Roloson to Moulson, Snow, deputy Ken Morrow and the rest of hockey ops have done well with quality-value free agent dealings.
Even if it’s not many (or any) of the players listed above, the Islanders will get the men they need in this market. My only advice: while some of the perceived best available free agents are coming off the board on July 1 and 2, stay cool. The season does not start for another three months. Whether it’s free agency or salary cap-relief trades, Snow has plenty of avenues to explore.
Comments on free agency are welcomed. I’ll be on News 12 Long Island tonight at 8:20, talking about the draft and free agency. I realized this afternoon that, before saying anything on TV, I should get my views across to this blog’s readers. Thanks for stopping by…CB
110 Responses to THE NYI’S PRACTICAL GUIDE TO FREE AGENCY
Taking his time, Cool Hand Snow will get his men
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Hock says:
I agree that Snow’s options are more than in the past and slowly the Isles are taking form and starting to get some recognition. Other GMs, coaches and players are beginning to take notice.
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27Tonelli says:
my wish list is: Nystrom, Frolov,Michalek, Sutton and Valiquette.
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Lance79 says:
So who are our options for a FA goaltender?
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Mark in Ottawa says:
Hi Chris,
Any concrete thoughts on players – ie. names to watch out for ?
Thanks for everything.
Mark
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Examiner says:
A forward and defenseman can go a long way in taking this team to the next level. Come on Garth, take some UFAs to Jones Beach…
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Manhattan Mike says:
Good job of setting everyones expectations. We dont need someone going postal on this board if we dont sign anyone by July 4th.
We need Sutton back – obviously his size is a plus. But also I think he’ll be willing to sit down with Garth and work something reasonable out. Sutton is Assistant Captain worthy if signed long term. -
Nyslefan says:
We can be patient, but here’s the lingering question: Will a combination of any of our realistic UFA options be enough of an addition (along with our kids’ own development) to make a playoff-contending team? It’s not very clear and that’s what is so troubling.
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Knight of Cups says:
I would keep Park and Meyer for the bottom pieces and go out and upgrade as much as possible on Forward and Defense. Goaltending might be sure by Nathan Lawson. I’d like to see him tested at least.
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Mark says:
Good, realistic list of forwards there CB. I would focus on Lombardi, and Stepniak. Out of the dmen, Kubina or Foster would solve the lack of size on D. Too many other teams will jump on Paul Martin unfortunately.
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Pete says:
Zbynek Michalek, Andy Sutton, and Raffi Torres.
Git r’ done!
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potvin rocks says:
I like what your thinking #8, but the penalties out way the benefits.
The Islanders need all these things and the only one that I could see them signing on July 1 is a bottom 6 foward by the name of Eric Nystrom. -
Hockey1919 says:
Nice realisitic set of names to choose from (the realistic part bared reapeating). None should break the budget, none overlap with the skill set of the youngsters the Islanders are trying to develop and all have the potential to be an upgrade from last season. Just add a little size to protect the assets we have.
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mark p says:
Roloson wants, needs at least 50 games….and I can name over 60 million reasons that DP will get in 10. For 20 or so games its time to find out what Lawson can do. If we need to call up Kostitsen for a couple of games at some point, so be it. The Goaltending overstock actually seemed to hurt us for a few weeks last season……why bother.
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AJ says:
Does anyone think Colby Armstrong would be a nice addition as a bottom six forward? Only 27 – consistently a plus player – like a younger Richard Park who can score more.
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ledzep121212 says:
I am hoping Snow is able to pick up Z Michalek and Colby Armstrong and avoid Chris Higgins and Eric Nystrom like the black plague.
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Could we add Manny Malholtra to the list as a third/fourth line center, faceoff in your own zone and PK replacement option?
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Staten Islander says:
The question is, who among those on that list, would be willing to become an Islander?
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Mike from Oceanside says:
Derek Morris should be a target for Mr. Snow.
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It would be cool to see Raffi back home if he was the best attainable choice.
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Gabe says:
My wish list for $8million:
1. Frolov ($3.5 million)
2. Michalek ($2.75 million)
3. Foster ($1.75 million)Lines:
Okposo-Tavares-Moulson
Bailey-Shremp-Frolov
Comeau-Nielson-Hunter*
Gillies-Weight-Martin*Petrov plays for the Bridge and replaces Hunter when he gets injured.
Streit-Hillen
Foster-Michalek
McDonald-Hamonic -
Lombardi. Avoid Frolov. He is Yashin jr. I love Lombardi, he has speed and plays hard.
For the Islanders to make the playoffs, they need to finalize their goaltending situation as regards to DiPietro sooner than later. You can’t have three goalies again. Look at last season. It was a disaster. -
4peatsake says:
Lombardi and a Dman who can point the PP, please!!
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sean says:
Don’t sign Chris Higgins he is overrated garbage. I would go after Sutton Derek Morris I would go for Eric nystrom also
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I like Colby Armstrong and Torres….I feel they’re good fits. Any big good D-man will do for me. I want Volchenkov the most.
I feel like we won’t get anything too exciting. I do have faith in Garth adding a piece off the radar that just works out for us. My biggest wish is for our kids to step up!
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steve says:
Garth certainly has opened up a few roster spots, and has money to spend. i like that we need a goalie, when there are so many available.
interesting times, which mean good times. -
1* One potential top-four defenseman: YES.
2* One reliable, experienced, tough third-pair defenseman: I dont know- this spot could be FMIV or even Sutton. Could also be a Bridgeport kid.
3* One potential top-six forward: YES.
4* One reliable, experienced, rugged, penalty-killing, bottom-six foward: Possible, but this spot might be Jackman, Sim, or even a Bridgeport kid.
5* One low-maintenance backup goaltender: Dont know about htis either, could be Nathan Lawson. In fact if it isnt, then I do not understand where they are going to fit all the goalies they already have.I think the Isles will only get three of these… maybe 4… but if they go quality on #1 and #3, then Im alright with that. If they dont spend some actual money on #1 and/or #3, then I do not see how this team makes the cap floor and they will have to hand extra money to all their existing players. Lets hope if the Isles ahve to spend the money anyway, that they get what the team needs!
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I’ll try again. I really like Matthew Lombardi. He has produced everywhere he has been and is fast. He could replace Bergenheim’s spot and be a better player there. If Snow signs a goalie, I hope it is for the long term so we avoid a three goalie fiasco again like last season where all 3 goalies weren’t happy. That situation needs to be fixed sooner than later.
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IslesFaminFlorida says:
Hey #22, u forgot about Martinek in your Dman pairs. He will be back and is still locked up, so is WITT, althought i dont think he will be back unless we have bad injuries. I do think we need to bring in NYSTROM. That will be amazing for the fans aswell as hes a pretty good player thats not even in his prime yet. Goalies are gonna be out there and we prob can wait to pick someone who is desperate, but we deff need some more offense. PARTY ON GARTH!!
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Manhattan Mike (7): I understand why you would say Sutton is A-worthy if signed long term. However, Andy is also the same age as Brendan Witt. Remember how fast Witters game went downhill?
No long term contracts for Sutton if he does come back- no possible way I go more than 2 years, and Id even be a bit wary of that. Thats coming from someone who likes the guy a lot, too!
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James says:
I’d really like to see two top-four d-men, in particular one who can help ease the PP load off Streit.
Anyone on top of that is gravy.
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Tony says:
To be honest, quite an unimpressive list of available players. The Isles’ fans should prepare for a free agency period less satisfying than 2009.
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Thomas says:
I would just be happy if we sign anyone decent, my expectations are fairly low, I think if Sutton wants to come back we should sign him, and I said this last year but I think Afinogenov would be perfect in this system.
If we let Park go I’ll be very happy.
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LBred says:
HEy #29, u forgot that Martinek has never played a whole season and WILL get hurt early in the season. And when healthy he is a serviceble 3rd pair guy at best. If we really want to get better we have to start seeing our players and prospects for what they ARE, not what you think they could/should be just like Bergy. i actually have faith that Garth will do what is best for this team
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Blizzard says: I say shoot for the moon. Party on Garth!!!!!
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4theisles says:
Sutton would step up if he got signed – he and his family love the Island.
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matt says:
Lee Stempniak would be nice he can score but his assist totals scare me i dont like when a player has 28 goals and only 20 assists. i wouldnt mind higgins if he will give a hometown discount( i know alot of people dont like him but he has the abilty to score 20 goals) and i would bring sutton back he was solid last year
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hyedray says:
Tops as usual CB.
I think this is more or less on target. I would not expect a big splash, but the kind of signings that supplement the growing core of maturing youth. I don’t believe you obtain a franchise player via free agency—that comes in the draft.
The only thought here—will roster spots be left “open” to players like Martin, Joensuu or other youngsters or will those player be across the sound to develop into better players—the Detroit method of being “over ready” so when they get here they can step right in.
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Julie from FLA says:
# 19, you beat me to it! I’ve been following the Sharks’ lack of progress in getting Malhotra resigned, and I’ve been hoping he could be an “under the radar” FA signing.
I know he’s a former stranger but at 6’2, 217 with 14g, 19a and +17 in 71 GP, I think he’d be perfect centering our 3rd line. A little long in the tooth at 30, but great leadership qualities and a terrific skater, unlike Hunter.
As for the rest of my wish list, Frolov and Jones would make me very happy. Michalek’s going to the Sens, and I can’t see Martin signing with us over the Devs.
Anyone notice that Robert Nilsson was placed on waivers today?
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Tony F. says:
How about Paul Kariya for a cheap two years? Someone to pass on goal scoring knowledge to our younger snipers, just a thought.
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Strummer's Army says:
Sutton had his big hit or two per game and is a pretty good d-man in our system but the guy doesn’t fight, so he isn’t the tough d-man we need. Only fight I remember him having last year was when someone was coming after him not defending a teammate. He wouldn’t fight for his teammates. He would grab Nielsen later.
Lombardi and Nystrom are the only FA forwards I have interest in (for guys not named Boogard).
On defense, Volchenkov and Michalek are interesting. Carnker and/or Scott are the only guys that fit the bill for the tough 3rd line d-man Botta mentioned.
Isles have to fill in the blanks:
Bailey Tavares Okposo
Moulson Nielsen
Comeau Schremp Hunter
Weight GilliesHunter and Weight need to get upgraded. I am guessing Snow wants them for one more year only. Schremp could be traded.
Neidemeitter, Petrov, Kabonov, Martin and Joenssu are all knocking on the door but are they ready this year or next. Ullstrom and Nelson down the road.
Streit Hamonic
Hillen
Perhaps De Haan.
Martinek and Geravis need to get lost.
DiPietro
Roloson
Koskonin
Poulin
NilssonExcept on defense I believe it makes little sense to spend bit on FA’s that will only take away roster spots from super talented prospects that are not far off.
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isles72 says:
lay low for first few days and pick up the valuable leftovers .
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Fist of Gillies says:
Wow. Raffi Torres turns 29 in October.
Slow and steady rebuild indeed.
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Ari says:
Thanks Chris. Liked the draft and have a feeling of optimism for FA (not sure I know why exactly). Also agreed with the moves to let JT and SB go. Seem like good guys, but time to cut the chord on the ice at least. All we need is some good news about the new Lighthouse project and/or new arena plans (even a move to Queens which I still doubt) and everything will be coming into focus quite nicely. Hope all is well with fellow Isle fans.
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John says:
call me crazy but I hope they bring back Arron Asham. He is a tough presence and can score a few goals as he showed in the playoffs.
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SCLI says:
I love it when the Islander rebuild is constantly refereed to as “Slow & Steady”. Reminds me of that old song, The Volga Boatman.
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Michael Delman says:
I would sign Torres, Armstrong, and Michalek. The thought of some of those others on the team…especially Afinegenov makes me sick.
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IsleFan73 says:
John #45, you are not crazy. Asham would be a great pick up for the reasons you mentioned. Like the idea of Malhotra and Sutton for a one year.
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TurgeonFan77132 (Matt) says:
Hi CB-
Excellent coverage as always. Do you see the Isles even thinking about taking a shot at Marty Turco for goaltending, or do you see them going younger, such as Dan Ellis from the Predators? Nabokov is most likely out of reach for us. What bout Jose Theodore, Vesa Toskala, or Antero Niitymaki?
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Darren says:
Lombardi(there’s our 2cnd line center),Michalek and Leopold.That should do it for now.Although adding Frolov wouldn’t hurt–moulson-JT-Frolov——-Bailey–Lombardi—KO——-Martin-Nielson-JJ——-Gillies–Schremp—Hunter.Now thats improvement over last year and w/ a little luck the 7th or 8th seed.Go Isles.
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Brother Rat says:
Eh, I can hope for particular players (Kovy, Hamhuis, Frolov, Kubina), but deep down I know whoever we’ll sign will make me shake my head and go “whoa, huh?” I’m way more excited for our guys that are aging and developing. That being said, some signings would be nice, but no thanks to Raffi Torres, Chris Higgins, or Derek Morris. How about signing Carcillo and his mustache to an offer sheet? I wonder if our jettisoning of Bergie means that he couldn’t be put in as part of a trade (Stuart, Versteeg, etc.). I do kinda wanna see us show Kovy the money to be a mentor to the Kirills for the next few years.
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(Sim)ple says:
1) Michalek – to stabalize D
2) Lombardi – for scoring help
3) Nystrom – for grit, energy, and locker room
4) Corvo – for PP unit help and hard shot -
billy says:
i’m certain wang will open up the wallet to bring in: (although he obviously wont sign all)
F
Lombardi (doesnt hurt the rebuild in any way shape or form)
Armstrong
Nystrom
-pls no torres (we gave him up for a reason), frolov (gets benched for selfish disinterest), or afinogenov(streaky and soft, makes me want to puke haha)
D
Volchenkov
Michalek
Leopold
Martin
Sutton
pls no kubina or morris (is it any surprise that no team wants to keep this guy?) -
OOOPS.I left out dead Weight and Comeau.
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Ethan K says:
Wish List:
-Top 4 Dman: Pavel Kubina (or Zbynek Michalek)
-Tough 3rd line dman:Kurtis Foster
-Bottom 6 PKer: Raffi Torres
-Potential top-6 fwd: Lee Stempniak
-Low maintenance goalie: Vesa Toskala -
NYIChooch says:
Everyone needs to realize what a horrible free agent class this is for forwards. We will not be getting a Top 6 forward this offseason via free agency. I’ll be shocked if wer sign Kovie (not going to happen). Garth needs to spend the money on combo of Armstrong, Stempniak, Lombardi (as a LW) or Nystrom (again, as a wing). But he really needs to focus on the D. Sign two solid defensmen. I have a funny feeling Corvo is an Islander. He has a friggin’ cannon! And I couldn’t care less about a back-up goaltender. DiPietro is going to screw that up (again).
And to the people clamoring for a center? Really? We need a CENTER?
Best thing for the Isles to do is sign 2 solid D-men, a bottom 6 forward or two, then try to pry a Kris Vergteeg, Bobby Ryan-type player from their respective clubs. We do not need Frolov, Afinogonov or Tanguay. Those days of signing marginal selfish talent must be over.
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The once Islander would be a great fit on Long Island. Raffi Torres fills a number of roles and will be cheaper than most. He plays in the dirty areas which will open things up for Okposo/Moulson and Tavares on the top line. He is physical and can skate. The other guy I would love to get is Hamhuis. I have said this for months that he is the best UFA out there for this team. He is good at both ends, rarely is injured, is physical enough and young enough at 27 to be here and grow during the rebuild. The question is if Garth is willing to give 500,000 more a year to get him here. That is what he will have to do in order for him to sign here. Therefore, you are looking at 5 million to 5.25 a year for him. I’m not usually one to support the overpay for a player but this is one player and situation I would do it for. If you get Hamhuis then you can bring Hamonic. Hamhuis can mentor Hamonic without the fear of rushing him and ruining him. Both are Canadians, like me, and Hamhuis has been on multiple Canadian World Championship teams. The other holes on forward you probably could fill within. These two players will almost cover the cost to reach the basement cap floor and put us in the playoffs 4sure.
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Ernie says:
Nystrom and Michalek. That’s it!
Any thing more defeats the re-build.
No need to sign a goalie. Why? Lawson can provide quality minutes if needed.
All teams, in the East, that made the playoffs should repeat next season except Ottawa. They will be replaced by Tampa.
It is not fair to think the Islanders are ready at this stage. Be more patient! A strong draft of quality defencemen, next summer, is required. I like the slow, but steady approach – it will reward soon. -
19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
Practical and Free Agency don’t fit in the same sentence with the Islanders…
Well … Honestly … Garth has done a very good job with Streit, Moulson and Sutton … but it’s hard for the Isles to get what they really need to make the next step.
I think filling the cap floor void may make the Isles an attractive target for some tier 2 FA’s … they can get a lil more than their market value b/c Garth needs to spend the money regardless… and we may just may get one of those hidden gems again.
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Don’t know why a few of you are so down on Comeau. When he is on his game, he is a good player for us. I saw major improvement from last year. Also, don’t have such disrespect for the captain. He was injured most of the year. When dougie is healthy, he can do wonders–on and off the ice!( see Carolina cup win).
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Jon in Chicago says:
I’d be shocked if the Isles added more than one free agent in the early stages. I wouldn’t mind a Corvo or Tallinder signing, they both offer something and would come relatively cheap. Would be nice to have Corvo since he could help ease the burden on Streit offensively.
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dose says:
sutton, torres and eric ny would work out nicely.
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Dadi says:
Please, no Frolov! Give me 3-4 from Martin, Michalek, Tallinder, Torres, Malhotra, Lombardi & Nystrom.
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TimQ says:
1. P. Martin
2. Z. Michalek
3. D. Lombardi
4. C. Armstrong -
george says:
#40. I was thinking Kariya would be a good fit as well. He may be at a bargain and would look good playing the wing on a line with okposo and tavares for 1 year until el nino is ready to step in. Don’t think it will happen though.
They need to stay away from nystrom. Martin can play that role and they should leave a spot open for Joensuu. After all this is a slow and steady rebuild. That really leaves one forward spot open for hopefully a top six forward to play on that first line (stepniak,frolov, kariya, lombardi)
The defense is were they will need to go get couple of FA. They need to add two guys with size, one that can be a top 4.
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Bob says:
I don’t really think we’ll get any of the top tier guys, so my B list is as follows: Torres, Tillander, and Stempniak.
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ChrisW says:
1. I. Kovalchuk (one can dream)
2. D. Lombardi
3. E. Nystrom
4. A. Volchenkov
5. Z. Michalek -
On D give me Kubina and one of Volchenkov, Martin or Hamhuis
Up front I want Stempniak, Torres and Nystrom.
Time to bring a little size and toughness back to Long Island! -
Paul says:
CB, I think you wrote an article earlier in the year about possibly Nik Zherdev coming back to the NHL. Would the Isles possibly be interested in him? He has top 6 talent, no question, and can possibly be a nice fill in on the wing of Tavares.
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Cary says:
Colby Armstrong always played solid against us – I would love to see him bring some decent sandpaper and scoring as a top 6.
Aside from that we need someone who can compliment Streit on the top pair – defensively solid, good size, and under 3-0. I’m not sold on anyone in CBs list other than the hard-to-get Volchenkov.
Lawson as backup, no need for another bottom 6 forward, and I’d like to see a young d-man from elsewhere replace Gervais with Hamonic waiting in the wings.
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Kidrock says:
Islanders shopping for bargains..sounds like every summer since the year they signed peca n yashin. If the NHL told the isles they were going to now play in the ahl for another ten years…would that be such a bad thing for us as a fanbase? This owner can’t make this team competive in this league. Maybe a new league would be a better fit.
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Eric says:
Comeau is SOLID. He will get 50 pts this upcoming season. I would sign Asham and Nystrom to replace Sim and Park. Those would be 2 good bottom 6 fowards. The Islanders need 2 of those and 1 top 6. They also need to sign two top 4 dmen.
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Andre says:
The guys I would target are either Kubina/Michalek and Manny Malhotra. Any chance the Isles could make a play for Neal who is RFA from Dallas?
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Will OC says:
Make it to the cap floor….Just please no contracts longer than a couple years…if all goes well we’ll be having to shell out a lot of cash in a few years to our good developing players and a better crop of free agents like next year
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Sidd Finch says:
The last thing the Isles need to do now is start over paying role players. I have heard that Lombardi is looking for $3-4 mil/yr. The Islanders are already pretty deep up the middle with JT, Bailey, Comeau, Nielsen & Schremp. The Isles need wings. Maybe they should take a flyer on Cheechoo now that the Sens have bought him out. Considering Snow’s luck with Moulson last year and the Kirill’s in the draft, I am hoping he can make the right call here. He should come at a more modest price considering his recent troubles, but his age probably makes him worth the risk. Not likely as cheap as Afinogenov was last year, but he apparently has a good work ethic and a good attitude. On D, Corvo would be the cannon we are looking for, but is he worth the defensive risk. It would be nice to have Sutton back, but it is not likely to be the right fit and could cost us in the long run. I heard someone talk about the rebuild and I don’t agree with the term. The Islanders are clearly in a new developmental stage. The core players are now in the organization and need to be brought in at the appropriate time. We are not looking at shedding key players or changing the “system.” The wheels are in motion and they need to tweak the present team. Looking at the potential future of this team and its present line-up, it is likely that Bailey, Neilsen or Comeau will be gone soon to make necessary room for the future players and it is completely possible that only Streit and Hillen or MacDonald are the only present d-men left. And goalies, well, how does Koskinen/Poulin sound? Look backwards a few years at the Hawks and compare them then to now. This is the evolution the Isles will need to make the Cup a reality by about 2012-13. That team:
MM – JT – NN
KK – KP – KO
MM – JB – ?
? – BC – NystromMS – CDH
TH – MD
AM – ?MK/KP
Isn’t this how the Hawks did it? A strong drafted core surrounded by key role players in acquisitions.
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AJAX says:
I agree with 63. Sutton, Eric Ny & Torres would do just fine.
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mike says:
cant wait for gm 2
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Billy-no-not-Jaffe says:
CB- How do we go from $10MM cap space to $6-8MM? Just to hit the cap floor.
$8MM will not allow for the rates required to both bring in the talent level improvement and also fill the roster spots that are open. $10-12MM would be the minimum if you consider that $7MM will be needed to add the potential top 2 pairing Dman and the potential top 6 forward. If Garth is thinking of getting bargain rate sigings, then we can lower our expectations of any of those players other teams will seek out. -
Isles Fan says:
Time to let Hunter go as well.
I would look at Tanguay, Nystrom, Bochenski (for BPort), Hamhaius, Leopold, Emery
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UIF says:
My only objection to this entry is the words “quality” and “Tallinder” should never be used in the same breath. Maybe two or three seasons ago, but he is horrendous back there now…speaking as someone married to a Sabres fan who catches many of their games, including, unfortunately, some nights when the Isles are also playing.
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Spartiarti RVC says:
Raffi Torres would be an upgrade. he hits, skates hard and can score. He is better option than Nystrom.
I would avoid Morris and Corvo at all cost. Both bounce around to new teams as are totally overrated and OVERPAID.
You want a big body with big shot. Kurtis Foster is your man. I feel that is who we might try to pick up.
Sure you can make play fo Armstrong and Malhotra but i feel asking price on both will be too high.
I expect Snow to sign good DMAN and shop for AHL Moulson finds to fill in holes up front. That is just the reality.
IF were to splurge. I would spend on Lombardi. Frolov (khl flight fears) and Steminiak (underachiever) not worth it.
Its shame petrov and kabonov not NHL ready yet. Or Gonchar would be best Mentor, PP solution on 1-2 yr deal.
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zeike says:
#53 – Simple – PERFECT list
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Brian G says:
Realistic UFA Targets:
D – Kubina
D – Sutton
RW – Torres
LW/C – NystromI don’t want Higgins but could see him sign a Tom Poti like 1 year deal with the Isles, build up his value…then sign a multi year deal somewhere else next year
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Gary says:
Oh and Lombardi, speed speed speed
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islesfan999 says:
My wish list
1 of Zherdev ( best case in my opinion) or Lombard or Tanguay
1 of Malholtra or Nystrom or Asham, Armstrong Raffi Torres2 of Z. Milchalek, D. Morris, Randy Jones, Shaone Morrison, K. Foster, P. Kubina, Corvo
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Lee says:
One potential top-four defenseman – I’d love to see them ink Joe Corvo.
One reliable, experienced, tough third-pair defenseman – Kurtis Foster fits the bill here…perfectly. And he’d address the entire size issue.
One potential top-six forward – Yeah, he gets killed around here a lot, but I’d go for Chris Higgins. I’ve always liked him.
One reliable, experienced, rugged, penalty-killing, bottom-six foward – Eric Nystrom. Yes, I’d like to bring 2 Long Island boys home.
One low-maintenance backup goaltender – Why not just go with Lawson? We’ve gotta see what he can do eventually, right?
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Greg says:
I havent been following the team too closely other than the draft, but how come in most peoples’ expected lines for this season, Nino is not included? Is he not expected to start this season with the big club?
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StevieL says:
I don’t care who we sign! I just want to see that we are competing for players and making a “real” effort to improve this team!!
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Greg, it could go either way come training camp, but the “conventional wisdom” seems to be that El Nino may need another year before joining the “big” squad. Stay tuned though, because that may change.
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bossjones1 says:
I said it a bunch of times on here but I would like to see them acquire Methot from Columbus. He is a big solid shut down defender with limited offense, similar to Sutton but he’s only 25. Now that we are building up a prospect pool of kids that will never get a chance ie Katic they should start making some trades to fill some roles. 6-8 million dollars would get us Sutton 3.5M back (no one better is coming here for anything near that number) Nystrom 1.5M and one other 2nd-3rd line fwd (Torres?) thats not going to improve the team much if at all.
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mfio says:
is Colby Armstrong a realistic possibility? I think he was making in the 2.5 million range on Atlanta. He’s a gritty guy and I think could be a huge role player and add a decent amount of goals. Maybe it could even allow them to move injury prone trent hunter get a guy younger, similar type of play and adds a little more offense
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cahoward28 says:
Please please please let Nino go back to juniors. There is NO reason to rush this kid. He’s a full calendar year younger than Tavares was for his rookie season, and he is not as NHL ready as Tavares was. It does no harm to send him to juniors, even if its only one year, he still starts his NHL career at the same age that Tavares did. Don’t ruin this kid, let him grow the right way. We all agree that we’re 2-3 years away from competing (Kiril’s, Nino, etc being ready). So why kill this kid and play him as virtually a 17 year old in the NHL. PLEASE DON’T DO IT GARTH!
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RAMen says:
what’s insane and hilarious about all of this is that I’m visiting IPB.com 30 times a day because I’m paranoid that I’ll miss something…and Free Agency hasn’t offically started yet.
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False Rumor says:
Lee # 83 . . I agree. Except, I’d Like to get Paul Martin.
And if we can’t get Higgins, I like Le Stempniak
Don’t like Maxim, wouldn’t mind Raffi, Frolov is too good to be true (Snow will not overpay)
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i agree, no nino this year. At most send him to AHL. get him lots of ice time. He can come into NHL next year and with the calder.
That’s Unless he just blows the competition away in pre season. i doubt it.
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MorDraftPicks says:
Great reading everyones FA’s list. Get Martin, dont get Martin. Get Frolov, dont get Frolov. I want Stepniak, please no Stepniak. Love it!!
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bobice says:
pretty soon free agents will be begging 2 come but our lines will already be stacked
1.NN-JT-KO
2.MM-JB-BC
3.KK-FN-KK -
Nino’s is too young for the AHL this year. He can play JRs or NHL or a combination of 9 NHL games max and JRs.
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JtorBust says:
Lets be realistic here , we are not winning the cup this year and most of our blue chips will not be ready for the NHL. Garth needs to go out and get some guys that will put fans in the seats. I am not saying to pull a total Reg Dunlop but go get a few bangers who will actually stand up for their teammates. We generate some revenue and next year we try to sign that player that will take us to the next level. I can not spend another year watching these kids get manhandled while the other guys on the team look the other way. If you ever want JT to be the next big thing he needs a bodyguard. He played much different with Gillies in the lineup. That should be the most important goal of this offseason. We need a sink chompers wrecking ball that will make opposing players think twice about taking a run at our kids.
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Danny T says:
I NEED A NEW STORY TO READ TODAY!
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Would the amount of money to get us to the floor depend on buying out Brendan Witt? Don’t really know why we’d be bringing him back only to bury him in the minors – he clearly can’t play in Gordon’s system.
This means they will either keep Witt around to help bring us to the cap floor or they’re planning on buying him out – but I haven’t seen him on waivers like the other buyout eligibles.
I want Frolov, Michalek and a decent backup goalie. I don’t mind bringing Sutton back if it’s at the right term and price. Also bear in mind that we’re going to trade Martinek before the next trading deadline if he doesn’t suffer another season-ending injury so we’ll need to cover his salary sooner or later too.
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Steve from CT says:
What is with the hardon for Nystrom? The guy is a bust. I think Matt MArtin can more than fill in for whatever numbers Nystrom will give us.
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Danny T . . . I concur
CB . . . at least gimmie a twitter update I am tweaking out at work.
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Rich says:
1 – Michalek
2 – Foster
3 – Stempniak
4 – Reliable Backup Goalie
5 – Frolov or Zherdev if we miss on Stempniak.This is the order I would want them to attack free agency. I like the idea f getting Zherdev because he went to the KHL and now wants back in the NHL, this could be a good influence to have on Kabanov and Petrov to be able to tell them “Hey I left the NHL for the KHL and now look at me, it was a mistake, I’m back for a reason and it’s simply that the NHL is a better league to play in.”
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Chris in DC says:
I like Torres, Frolov, Corvo and Asham. Good fits and I think the Isles really have a shot a getting them. Corvo esp would be great; the gap in scoring between Streit and the next d-man is way too big.
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Rich @ #105: interesting angle, although I’m inclined to think getting Volchenkov would have a bigger impact. Here’s a guy who shatters the stereotype of the soft, inconsistent Russian, who not only fills a glaring need but could provide leadership to the Kirills.
Given the competition for his services, it’s unlikely he’d come here anyway, which is why he’s not on my wish list. But it would certainly be worth a full court press from Garth.
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john says:
i gotta agree with #107 volchenkov can show the kirills how nhl players act as well as be the physical defenseman we really really need…..
also hockeybuzz.com has the islanders linked to bobby ryan a lot anyone else seen this? thatd be insane. i do now expect it but figured id pass along -
nyislanders93 says:
No forwards. Only spend on defense. With Niederreiter, Kabanov, Petrov, Martin, and Joensuu all coming up soon, spots need to be available for them. No need to waste a spot on a guy like Raffi Torres who would occupy our 3rd line. Keep the fourth line Gillies-Weight-Rechlicz. Joensuu and Martin deserve a chance to compete for a spot this year and putting them on the 4th line doesn’t help them develop while playing 8 minutes a game. Hamonic and De Haan still need more time so signing Andy Sutton or Paul Martin would be a good idea if we want a chance at the playoffs.
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admin says:
Thread closed.
I am really excited about this team because of the Draft. I hope Garth continues the excitement through Free Agency.