Carolina Hurricanes make player moves

[Shell]

Monday, June 30, 2003 3:52PM EDT
Carolina Hurricanes make player moves
By LUKE DECOCK, Staff Writer

The Carolina Hurricanes will not offer contracts to forward Jan Hlavac or defenseman Nikos Tselios, general manager Jim Rutherford said today.
Hlavac was acquired along with forward Harold Druken from the Vancouver Canucks for defenseman Marek Malik and forward Darren Langdon last November. A 26--year--old left wing who had 37 goals over two seasons for the New York Rangers in 1999--2001, Hlavac was expected to fill the hole on left wing created by Martin Gelinas' free-agent departure last summer.
But Hlavac scored only nine goals in 52 games. Meanwhile, Langdon's personality was sorely missed in the dressing room when things turned sour and Malik's departure left the Canes dreadfully short-handed on defense when Bret Hedican and David Tanabe were both injured in December.

The Canes ended up trading Druken to the Toronto Maple Leafs for a defensive prospect -- leaving them with almost nothing for the useful Malik and scrambling to rebuild their defense this summer. Rutherford later admitted the deal was a mistake.

The draft-weekend acquisition of versatile forward Marty Murray from the Philadelphia Flyers further made Hlavac expendable. The Canes will have 18 forwards fighting for 13 or 14 spots in camp.

"He's under performed his contract," Rutherford said of Hlavac. "He could certainly bounce back with somebody and score 20-25 goals, but I think we have enough forwards."

Tselios was the Canes' first-round pick in 1997, 22nd overall. A hulking 6 feet 5, he never developed into an NHL defenseman and played only two games for the Hurricanes at the end of the 2001--02 season.

Of the Canes' four first-round picks from 1997--2001, only Jeff Heerema remains with the team.

[Turbulence]

Hlavac wasn't given a fair look because of the dismal season that was 2002-2003...everyone slumped. Yet still, there appears to be no room in this organization for a LW who has slumped with both the 'Canes and Vancouver when we have many other younger guys who can fill his place, and no room in Lowell for them if we retained Hlavac.
As far as Tselios, I don't know. Is this just a case of budget cutting (how much would he have to be offered?), a case of decreasing Canes property in Lowell, or a case of getting rid of a bad defenseman? I don't know.

[Jeff O Rocks]

I will miss Jan.. :sad:

[nccanes]

In addition, from today's N&O

Besides Hlavac and Tselios, the Canes also cut loose forward Craig MacDonald, minor league veterans Mike Watt and Steve Halko, and one-time prospect Ryan Murphy.

[crazy4canes]

I wonder what all this means? Are they trying to free up money to get some free agents? Or maybe just one free agent in particular....http://www.smilies.org/basesmilies3/nixweiss.gif

[StormShaman]

So we basically traded Harry for whatever compensatory draft pick we'll get when Aflac gets signed. :sad:

*sigh*

[nccanes]

I wonder what all this means? Are they trying to free up money to get some free agents? Or maybe just one free agent in particular....http://www.smilies.org/basesmilies3/nixweiss.gif

Other than Hlavac, did these guys make much? Hlavac's salary plus the others (including Tanabe) here must add up to over 3 million to throw somewhere (in addition to Wesley's 2.5+ salary that was free'd up).

I think JR is trying to get 2 dmen between now and camp. Markov is obviously one, but before the whole "I'm going to Russia" stuff, he was still talking about signing another NHL dman.

[Captain Slack]

In addition, from today's N&O

Besides Hlavac and Tselios, the Canes also cut loose forward Craig MacDonald, minor league veterans Mike Watt and Steve Halko, and one-time prospect Ryan Murphy.


What?!?! No more Future Captain!!! Whatever will we do?! :D

[guinevere]

http://www.jordysworld.de/emoticons/conf31.gifMore than that... With C -Mac gone, who's going to drive the baby canes around and how are we going to know when to stop the bag skates if we don't have him to collapse?
There's just no sense in this world.http://www.jordysworld.de/emoticons/trau36.gif

Guin

[cmw00]

Well Hlavac might have been a decent player, but the canes have alot of decent players right now, and younger ones to! I say its good to give him up to create spce for younger guys to expand.

The other guys were just dead weight. Well not dead, but useless weight. We could use there money better else where whether it be in bounuses, getting another free agent or uppiing the money of one of our stars some.

[crazy4canes]

More than that... With C -Mac gone, who's going to drive the baby canes around

There, there now guin. We still have Mo's Escalade. :laugh:

Back on-topic...

Other than Hlavac, did these guys make much?

I don't have a list of their salaries but I expect they didn't make much. When you put them all together though, it might amount to enough to get another good dman.

[Jeff O Rocks]

http://www.jordysworld.de/emoticons/conf31.gifMore than that... With C -Mac gone, who's going to drive the baby canes around and how are we going to know when to stop the bag skates if we don't have him to collapse?
There's just no sense in this world.http://www.jordysworld.de/emoticons/trau36.gif

Guin

:D That is exactly what I and CRAIGADAMSTHE MAN said!! ;)

sorry OT I know...and I won't even mention the word COLLAPSE!! :laugh:

C-Mac worked hard...I will miss him! :sad:

[Guyute]

In honor of the boys leaving... tonight I'll drink until CMac collapses. :angel:

Well Hlavac might have been a decent player, but the canes have alot of decent players right now, and younger ones to! I say its good to give him up to create spce for younger guys to expand.

the problem with this is, if you rush youngsters, you wind up with a player like Tanabe. I'm Very worried about the fact that so many of our kids could make the team full time. Not all of them are ready for it, and rushing a player can literally break them.

I'll go ahead and say it right now... Hlavac will break 25 goals somewhere this year. I for one will be sorry to see him go.

[Stormbringer]

In honor of the boys leaving... tonight I'll drink until CMac collapses. :angel:

Y'know, I wonder where NoMo is...I know he'd love to join in with you Guyute. ;)

[Jeff O Rocks]

I will be sorry to see him go.

Me too guyute....and I also agree about what you said about Tanabe...rushing someone in to a "superstar" doesn't always work....too much pressure...I thought athletes relied on their "natural" talent..not someone constantly on them...I think Jan has a lot to offer...too bad we won't get to see it here! :sad:

[stewart123]

Hlavac was one of our best power play weapons.

Even if the youngsters fill his ice-time, they won't help very much in that area.. and it's probably the weakest part of the Canes game.

I would have made the qualifying offer for Hlavac.

[stewart123]

Other than Hlavac, did these guys make much?

Here are the 02-03 salaries..

MacDonald,Â* Craig 660,000.00
Tselios,Â* Nikos 605,000.00
Hlavac,Â* Jan 1,100,000.00

Don't know about the Lowell guys.

[Cool Hand Luke]

I think Jan was about the only Cane able to carry the puck in over the blue line by himself also with the ability to create a good scoring chance on his own. That's what I think the Canes will miss the most from not having him, besides the possible goal scoring. Get ready for a lot of dump and chase next year because I don't see anyone else with the ablilty to bring the puck in by themselves, consistently.

He was expensive for 9 goals last year sure, but the guy was injured part of the year and was adjusting to a new system and new team-mates the other part of the year. I agree with Guy, watch him score at least 20 next year. Will be interesting to see who signs him and for how much.

[Shell]

yep, I don't think he (or Druken) got a fair shake here. He may have only had 9 goals in his 59 games here, but 3 of them were in a game that I probably wanted us to win more than any other. Nobodies stats from this past season should be count for anything :sick: ,.
Unless there were locker room dynamics that I am not aware of, we didn't give him enough of a shot. Best of luck to him, hope someone picks him up in the glut of free agents.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Nobodies stats from this past season should be count for anything :sick: ,.


You hit the nail on the head there, as far as I'm concerned.

I think we should have shown a bit more patience with Hlavac as well. I was looking forward to seeing his skill with moving the puck next season. Oh well. Wonder if JR has something else big in mind for us....

[talkingcanes]

Nobodies stats from this past season should be count for anything :sick: ,.


You hit the nail on the head there, as far as I'm concerned.

I think we should have shown a bit more patience with Hlavac as well. I was looking forward to seeing his skill with moving the puck next season. Oh well. Wonder if JR has something else big in mind for us....

don't have anything to add except welcome back SHC :D

[SouthernHockeyChick]

don't have anything to add except welcome back SHC :D

Ahhh, thanks. :spin:

Now, I'm wading waist deep in all the posts I've missed while I was gone. Couldn't you guys have just been quiet for a few days??? ;)

[Jeff O Rocks]

Get ready for a lot of dump and chase next year because I don't see anyone else with the ablilty to bring the puck in by themselves, consistently.



Where is that freakin' smiley that bangs its head into the wall???? :roll: :mad:

[Stormbringer]

don't have anything to add except welcome back SHC :D

Ahhh, thanks. :spin:

Now, I'm wading waist deep in all the posts I've missed while I was gone. Couldn't you guys have just been quiet for a few days??? ;)

Another welcome back here SHC! :spin:

Where is that freakin' smiley that bangs its head into the wall????

Here you go Mona...

http://www.websmileys.de/wut30.gif

Though, I don't agree with Cool Hand Luke...yet. I'm of the opinion that we should wait and see what happens and not assume what might happen with the system/s. Long time to do what I suggested, but who knows what might happen and/or who we might get from free agency or a trade or two?

[Shell]

if we do dump and chase a lot next season, here's hoping the guys don't forget the chase part again! ;) At the end of the season I was very happy and thought we would come back with a new system (i.e., , not a defensive shell with a 1 goal lead)... somehow I have lost that and assume we'll continute on in the same mode.. I hope I'm wrong!

[Jeff O Rocks]

if we do dump and chase a lot next season, here's hoping the guys don't forget the chase part again! ;) At the end of the season I was very happy and thought we would come back with a new system (i.e., , not a defensive shell with a 1 goal lead)... somehow I have lost that and assume we'll continute on in the same mode.. I hope I'm wrong!

Me too Shell..on both comments...towards the end of the season with the Baby Canes...Bruno especially...when he brought the puck in, he looked like a running back right up the middle!! I was so digging that style!! :roll: The dump and chase sucks, unless you run it successfully!! I find it boring.. JMHO!!

[StormShaman]

10 bucks sez the defenseman we tried to trade for was either Harry or (contrary to what JR said) Karlis.

[Tatfever]

I'm of the opinion that we should wait and see what happens and not assume what might happen with the system/s. Long time to do what I suggested, but who knows what might happen and/or who we might get from free agency or a trade or two?

Just to throw my two cents in, I am very curious to see what happens. With the players they traded to Toronto(Druken, Daw), and the ones they cut(Watt, Halko, Tselios), I would love to see who we have here in Lowell this year.
As of right now, I can't think of many, if any, players that will be in Lowell with a lot of experience. With the players that could also make Carolina(Hereema, Bayda, Defauw, Bruno, Malec and Jesse), whichever ones that do not make Carolina will have the most experience down here in Lowell. That will make Lowell a very young team this year.
The way they made it sound up here in Lowell for this upcoming year was that they were not going to resign a lot of players and instead test the free agent market for players for Lowell this year. With the signing of Tetarenko today(7/2) and the players that were let go, it looks like they are heading in that direction.
One last thing that I noticed. When they cut Tselios, I was sort of surprised. Not because he is great, but due to the fact that if Malec and Bruno were to make Carolina this year, there is really no one else down here in Lowell. Halko was on the team last year with 5 ECHL'ers. As of right now, unless I am missing some(which is possible), Carolina has no depth on defense.
Sorry this is so long and winded.

[Shell]

maybe Calgary does though.. how much do you need for half a team? I'm not thrilled with this sharing sceme by any means.

[Turbulence]

unless I am missing some(which is possible), Carolina has no depth on defense.

You aren't. It's pitiful. :sick:

[1Irbegirlforever]

As of right now, unless I am missing some(which is possible), Carolina has no depth on defense.
Sorry this is so long and winded.


I agree with you Tat....the Canes have a LOT of work to do if we're going to make it big this year.

BTW, it was a long time ago, but sorry about being rough on you during the whole "Joe Thornton" thread... :roll: I can be a real pain sometimes. :)

[Tatfever]

BTW, it was a long time ago, but sorry about being rough on you during the whole "Joe Thornton" thread... :roll: I can be a real pain sometimes. :)

No problem, if anything I am just as sorry if not more. I was a pain in the %$# to some people when trying to get my point across. And as some people said, I should have realized where I was when I was making those comments. For some reason, I was oblivious when it cam to realizing where I was.

[Turbulence]

Some excerpts from today's N&O article...

The Hatcher signing, a five-year contract at $6 million per season, is of interest to Carolina because it may start a run on defensemen -- although one agent said that's more likely when the first of the lower-priced players signs.

"I think if the signing had been a Glen Wesley or Greg de Vries or Ken Klee -- and I'm sort of lumping them into one group -- then the sense of urgency becomes greater," Anton Thun, Klee's agent, said. "Derian Hatcher is at a different level and in a different ballpark than those other guys, so there's less of an impact than one of that cluster of guys signing a deal or getting an offer that becomes public."

De Vries, formerly of the Avalanche, is the next defenseman on the list of most teams, but the Canes are watching a trio of presumably cheaper defensemen: Wesley, Oleg Tverdovsky and Klee.

...

"I'm resigned to the fact that there's a good chance we're not getting [Wesley], but it doesn't change my opinion of him as a player or what he could do for us next year," Carolina general manager Jim Rutherford said.

...

The Canes are far closer with Tverdovsky. The Canes have not made a formal offer, but Rutherford said that if Tverdovsky were still available Tuesday, he planned to meet with agent Don Meehan in Toronto. Meehan did not return calls seeking comment Thursday.
"There is an interest level there on both sides, but I would not say it's at the point where we're getting close to making a deal," Rutherford said.

...

Even if the economics fit, though, the Canes may pass. They're concerned about an odd injury that limited him to 50 regular-season games last season. Tverdovsky had symptoms that were diagnosed by an outside doctor as post-concussion syndrome, but the Devils maintained he did not suffer a concussion. He returned to play in 15 playoff games.
"From a health point of view, we're being a little bit careful with him," Rutherford said. "We have done a lot of homework. So far, it's mixed. We're continuing to try to get more information which could change our position on that."

The Canes also are monitoring the situation with Klee, who played the past nine seasons for the Washington Capitals .

"Every day it looks more like we'll end up acquiring a defenseman via trade," Rutherford said.

...

But Rutherford changed his tune Thursday, saying he thought the trade market may prove more productive than the free-agent market based on the number of players made available to him at the draft.

Looking more and more like a trade, which makes me think Ward's gone with another player for a mid-level d-man. Wonder who...I know we tried to aquire Richard Matviachuk from Dallas before the Markov trade...but who knows...


*1000th Post http://websmileys.bei.t-online.de/party19.gif*

[nccanes]

Looking more and more like a trade, which makes me think Ward's gone with another player for a mid-level d-man. Wonder who...I know we tried to aquire Richard Matviachuk from Dallas before the Markov trade...but who knows...


Yes, but the net is the same. We still need 2 more defensemen. I wouldn't be surprised to see a forward traded for a dman. You get the sense that JR was trying to do that with Hlavac but had no takers.


*1000th Post http://websmileys.bei.t-online.de/party19.gif*

Woopity Doo Turby! :D

[Stormbringer]

*1000th Post http://websmileys.bei.t-online.de/party19.gif*

Congratulations Turby! :spin:

[Jeff O Rocks]

I don't want em to trade Aaron...he gives us good size and he ain't afraid to hit... :roll: :sad:

Congrats Turby!! Time to party!! :spin:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Just because it's from today's N&O as well and it pissed me off:
former Hurricanes forward Bates Battaglia, a bust with the Avs, is almost certain to be traded out of Colorado this summer

Even after he'e gone from here DeCock is kicking him around. :roll: I thought the Colorado GM had made some statement towards the end of the season that Bates had provided pretty much what they were looking for. Admittedly, with the Avs' new accqusitions of late, there may not be room for Bates but I'm not sure he's a definite trade and even if he is I'm not sure it's because he was a bust.

Damn it I want De Vries!!

[Shell]

The Denver Post is equally harsh:

Even when Sakic had a strong series against Minnesota in the first round of the playoffs, it wasn't because of brilliant supporting work from his linemates. Bates Battaglia was a disaster after his acquisition from Carolina, and Steve Reinprecht - traded to Calgary on Thursday in a kicker to the Avalanche's shocking signings of Selanne and Kariya - looked like what he was: a solid third-line center or winger.

[Jillsdad]

that is what i was talking about months ago shc. I got lambasted by a few people because I questioned DeCOCK's penchant for busting on Bates, and here he is again busting on him and he is not even a member of the Canes anymore. Did Luke expect for Bates to take Forsberg's place? I really wish the Canes could get a decent beat writer to cover them and not the crap they have now. Sorry a little off topic but I had to vent for a moment.

[stewart123]

Thanks shell, I appreciate your post. Not too long ago, I was tarred, feathered, and crucified upside-down for mentioning that the Denver Post is slanted against Bates Battaglia. Calling him a disaster shows that they don't appreciate his looks. There they go, negatively commenting on his performance, all while he's unlikely to be an Av much longer! It's all just a part of the league-wide anti-Bates conspiracy.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks shell, I appreciate your post. Not too long ago, I was tarred, feathered, and crucified upside-down for mentioning that the Denver Post is slanted against Bates Battaglia. Calling him a disaster shows that they don't appreciate his looks. There they go, negatively commenting on his performance, all while he's unlikely to be an Av much longer! It's all just a part of the league-wide anti-Bates conspiracy.

And my annoyance with DeCock's constantly kicking around his player of choice (currently Vasicek, before that Bates) has nothing to do with Bates's looks either. What is up with the attitude? If you want to be that sarcastic and that big of a jerk about a simple comment then go to CH.com. You'll fit in a lot better there.

I've seen the press and the fans in Denver slam on Bates ever since they got him. MY POINT was that the GM has never seemed to agree with those opinions and I'm just thinking that Luke DeCock probably doesn't have an inside track on the Colorado organization.

In addition, my feelings for Bates, even though I am a apparantly just a lowly woman, have not and have never had ANYTHING to do with his looks. My feelings about Bates do however have everything to do with the fact that I have met the guy and he is an extremely friendly guy and just a great all around person. For those reasons I'd like to see him be happy and succeed. Would you like to now crucify me for that? Geez.

DeCock's love for picking a player to turn into a kicking post is actually my only problem with the guy. I have no problem with criticizing the players when it is due. But, IMO, he just LOVES to latch onto one scape goat and ride him into the ground. It bugs me. Sorry, but this is an opinion board, right?

[StormShaman]

I have two words for people that are still hailing on Luke DeCock:

Cecil Harris.

[stewart123]

Sorry, but this is an opinion board, right?

If you want to be that sarcastic and that big of a jerk about a simple comment then go to CH.com.

Thanks for answering your own question, and saving me the time.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Sorry, but this is an opinion board, right?

If you want to be that sarcastic and that big of a jerk about a simple comment then go to CH.com.

Thanks for answering your own question, and saving me the time.

I think you are confused here. Your opinion is fine. It's your attitude that fits in at CH.com. I have plenty of respect for your opinion. You are the one that showed total dis-repsect for mine with the sarcasm and nasty attitude....apparantly stemming from the fact that you are still boiling about a long-past discussion that I don't even think I was involved in. Thanks again for that. :roll:

[stewart123]

Only the attitude, and not the opinion, eh?

Well, actually my posting was a direct inversion of the message directly before it.. which had sarcasm:

Did Luke expect for Bates to take Forsberg's place?

and also nasty attitude:

I really wish the Canes could get a decent beat writer to cover them and not the crap they have now.

So the one thing you've done by responding in this fashion to my message is to prove, undoubtedly, that it was the opinion that irritated you enough to consider it an attack. Unless you're planning on ordering off Jillsdad to CH.com, and just decided to pick me first.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

In Jillsdad's post he was nasty and sarcastic towards DeCock's opinions and writing...not another poster's. I don't care how sarcastic you want to be about DeCock or the organization....I do that daily. Your post was nasty and sarcastic about my and others' opinion that DeCock is too hard on Bates and you even implied that it is our hang-up with his looks that causes us to have the problem with DeCock criticizing him. See the difference?

And I didn't order you to go to CH.com. You are over-estimating my powers around here, LOL. I suggested that your sarcasm directed at another poster's opinion might fit in better there. If you disagree, fine. But I'd suggest you try backing your opinion up with some evidence to prove folks wrong rather than just spewing bile at them.

If you don't see the difference it's just not my problem anymore but I'd appreciate it if you could try and refrain from belittling my opinions and basically calling me a puck-bunny in the future. Thanks.

[Jeff O Rocks]

Don't EVEN get me started on Luke DeCock again!!!!! :mad: :mad:

Little Andy Dick look alike!!!!! I had enough of him before Bates was traded and then the day they traded him he badgered us at the arena for a comment on his hair....we were all devastated that he had been traded and the little, ugly SOB wanted a comment about his HAIR?????????? :mad: **puts on as*-kickin boots**...I can see it is TIME!! :evil:

[Stormbringer]

I have two words for people that are still hailing on Luke DeCock:

Cecil Harris.

Thank you Camille. At least Luke DeCock supports the Canes and hockey, unlike a good chunk of the News and Disturber... :roll:

[nccanes]

Don't EVEN get me started on Luke DeCock again!!!!! :mad: :mad:

Little Andy Dick look alike!!!!! I had enough of him before Bates was traded and then the day they traded him he badgered us at the arena for a comment on his hair....we were all devastated that he had been traded and the little, ugly SOB wanted a comment about his HAIR?????????? :mad: **puts on as*-kickin boots**...I can see it is TIME!! :evil:

LOL Mona. I recall that day, I had moved back a few rows and watched Luke's interview with you CraigAdamsTheMan and Caniac369. Mona was kind enough to answer all his questions. I waited until DeCock left and then went down to find out what he'd asked them.

I was really surprised that he would actually ask why they were bummed and said "what is about the hair?". Mona shared with me what she wished she'd said to him: "well no, actually it's about the size of his d***". (Sorry about the PG13-ness of that one). LMAO Mona.

I've "defended" (for lack of a better word) DeCock a few times, mostly because I've read so much worse in other papers, but I thought his comment was unnecessary and presumptuous this time.

Thankfully, THANKFULLY, we really only get a very few editorial columns on the Canes at all.

[Jeff O Rocks]

Mona shared with me what she wished she'd said to him: "well no, actually it's about the size of his d***". (Sorry about the PG13-ness of that one). LMAO Mona.



:D ;)

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I've "defended" (for lack of a better word) DeCock a few times, mostly because I've read so much worse in other papers, but I thought his comment was unnecessary and presumptuous this time.

That was exactly my point and my only point.

[Lady J]

Mona shared with me what she wished she'd said to him: "well no, actually it's about the size of his d***". (Sorry about the PG13-ness of that one). LMAO Mona.



:D ;)


LMAO! http://websmileys.bei.t-online.de/lachen70.gif

[Lady J]

My opinion : they've been much too hard on Bates. I don't know why they delight so much in singling people out, but it must really work for them because they keep on doing it. I agree with Chickie about wanting to see a nice guy succeed ~ I pray that his performance improves so he can keep playing a game he enjoys so much.

[Alicia]

My opinion : they've been much too hard on Bates. I don't know why they delight so much in singling people out, but it must really work for them because they keep on doing it. I agree with Chickie about wanting to see a nice guy succeed ~ I pray that his performance improves so he can keep playing a game he enjoys so much.

Hear, hear! (DON'T get ME started!)

[puckin_A]

Just because it's from today's N&O as well and it pissed me off:
former Hurricanes forward Bates Battaglia, a bust with the Avs, is almost certain to be traded out of Colorado this summer

Even after he'e gone from here DeCock is kicking him around. :roll: I thought the Colorado GM had made some statement towards the end of the season that Bates had provided pretty much what they were looking for. Admittedly, with the Avs' new accqusitions of late, there may not be room for Bates but I'm not sure he's a definite trade and even if he is I'm not sure it's because he was a bust.

Damn it I want De Vries!!

he does the same to Ozolinsh, he can't let it go. After the playoffs this
year I hope he shuts up.

[puckin_A]

10 bucks sez the defenseman we tried to trade for was either Harry or (contrary to what JR said) Karlis.

you know what Cam? I would love to see Malik back here but is it worth
how the fans treat him? I just don't think it would change. Now Tanabe
is gone, who is the next whipping boy?

[Shell]

you know what Cam? I would love to see Malik back here but is it worth how the fans treat him? I just don't think it would change. Now Tanabe is gone, who is the next whipping boy?

I'll admit to being against Malik while he was here. He has since proven himself on the 'nucks, but I still don't want him back here. Our two conferences play so differently and he definitely deserves to be in the Western Conference.. it's better for him and us! I am thrilled to see him do well though!

[Jeff O Rocks]

Now Tanabe
is gone, who is the next whipping boy?

My money is on Jaro or Joe....if they make the team!! :roll:

[Logansfrog]

My money is on Jaro or Joe....

I thought Joe already was the current whipping boy, with so many upset at him for not being the perfect Brindy replacement...

[StormShaman]

you know what Cam? I would love to see Malik back here but is it worth how the fans treat him?

True. Very true. :cry:

[puckin_A]

My money is on Jaro or Joe....

I thought Joe already was the current whipping boy, with so many upset at him for not being the perfect Brindy replacement...

yes, people need to remember Joe was hurt last year. I am hoping he is
healed this season and can go out and play like he can. He is already
back from Prague, so he must know he needs to get in shape. Brindy is
already working out at the arena (from what I hear), so I am sure Joe
will be joining him. Now where is Pavel? ;)

[Logansfrog]

yes, people need to remember Joe was hurt last year.

I so agree with you, Puckin. I also think people need to remember that Joe, at 22, can't replace Brindy in his prime. I don't think Brindy could've done at 22 what he does now.

It's part of what I love about hockey; you don't peak out in your teens or early 20s, instead experience really counts for something. I think that since Joe's been around for a while, it's easy to forget that he's so young. I just hope we don't give up on him too soon, because he has all the pieces and with more time under his belt, I think he'll be a powerhouse once he's a bit older.

[guinevere]

yes, people need to remember Joe was hurt last year.

You know, the thing about that is that Joe only scored 4 less goals than Cole and only played 4 games more. I wouldn't call that whipping boy fodder yet that what the poor kid ended up being. I would go for the benefit of the doubt with him. Jaro- I'm not so sure.

Guin

[nccanes]

Today's N&O article:

Tverdovsky still Canes' possibility
Free agent would accept one-year deal
By LUKE DECOCK, Staff Writer

The agent for Oleg Tverdovsky said Monday his client is willing to consider a one-year contract, which could pave the way for the defenseman to sign with the Carolina Hurricanes.
"It depends on what team he goes to, but that's a possibility," said Don Meehan, Tverdovsky's Ontario-based agent. Meehan would not speak specifically about the Canes.

The Hurricanes, desperate for defensive help, have limited themselves in the free-agent market by their insistence on one-year deals.

Carolina general manager Jim Rutherford is meeting with Meehan outside Toronto this morning to discuss a new contract for restricted free agent Josef Vasicek, another Meehan client. There's a chance Tverdovsky will be mentioned as well.

Tverdovsky, 27, became a free agent when the New Jersey Devils declined to make him a $3.6 million qualifying offer. Meehan said "seven or eight" teams are interested in Tverdovsky.

Tverdovsky missed almost two months with a condition diagnosed as post-concussion syndrome. He returned to appear in 15 playoff games.

The Canes are wary of Tverdovsky's medical history, but with Danny Markov still unsigned and the Canes unwilling to pursue higher-priced free agents, they have limited options.

"Right now we're looking at two guys," Rutherford said. "One's a free agent, and the other is available for a mid-round pick."

The Canes have also inquired about free agents Ken Klee and Glen Wesley but expect Wesley, second all-time on the franchise's games played list, to sign elsewhere for a multi-year deal.

Rutherford said he spoke with Markov's agent, Jay Grossman, on Monday, but he said little progress was made toward signing the restricted free agent. Markov has threatened to play in Russia next season.

"I think both of us would rather have it done sooner than later, but I have not given any deadlines," Rutherford said. "I think there will still be players out there."

Staff writer Luke DeCock can be reached at 829-8947 or ldecock@newsobserver.com

[Shell]

snippet about Joe from today's N&O Wesley article

The first three years of Vasicek's NHL career have been both promising and inconsistent, and Rutherford said the Canes are offering only his qualifying offer of $385,000 and a bonus package. He made $350,000 last season.

[Guyute]

Hopefully Joe's agent realizes how unfriendly the FA market is right now, and recommends that Joe take that offer.

[talkingcanes]

Hopefully Joe will step up and show us what he can do.

[Guyute]

Yes, obviously there are questions about Joe's consistency. But, I have high hopes for him... and even if we choose to let him build some confidence in Lowell... I think it'd be a mistake not to sign him.

Qualifying offer plus bonuses was a good move, imo.

[talkingcanes]

I'm not suggesting we get rid of him. I just think it's time for him to get it in gear and use some of that potential in a full season. Maybe time in Lowell would help him, without the pressure of the NHL, but with the desire to get back to the big club.

I hope he and his agent are realistic about this offer sheet.

[Jeff O Rocks]

I think Joe has had inconsistencies, but the back spasm thing this past year really seemed to get him off track..I am hoping that he comes back healthy and lights up the scoreboard, be it in Lowell or the RBC Center...I think we should keep him as well..and I hope he will take the offer and settle in to the new season!!

[Guyute]

yeah, it did get him off track....

but... my issue is that when Brindy went out, and Joe moved up to 2nd line Center... he played some incredible hockey. For 4 games. Then he stopped showing up. That worries me. If he can keep his level up like we've seen flashes of... there's no question he should be one of the top 9. But at this point, imo, that's a rather large "If".

in any case... like I said, I hope he takes the deal.

[Jeff O Rocks]

I agree guyute...it seemed like right after they sent Jaro to Lowell, Joe played better...everyone thought maybe it "woke him up"...but as you said, he kind of dropped off the radar ....at some games, it seemed like his mind was definitely not out there on the ice!! :roll: I hope when he returns, we see the playoff bearded version of Joe!! ;)

[cmw00]

INconsistent? Thanks to injuries this past season all 3 of Joe's NHL seasons all with the canes have been pretty consistent. He scored 10 goals and 10 assists in 57 games lasty year. He was on pace to break all his personal best scoring records this past year. However with a -19 rating its hard to hold leads while only scoring 10 goals.

Joesef witha full season should be able to hit 20 goals atleast I would say. He is sort of iffy as to whether we should ditch him or not. I like big Jo so I say lets keep him.

[Guyute]

The issue, cmw, is that Joe puts in 6-7 solid games at a time, then takes some time off. How about some stats. We'll take last year's #'s... in 5 game chunks.

First 5: one game was 1g, 1a, +2. other 4 were no pts, -4.
Next 5: no points. -5.
Next 5: one game- 1g, +1. other 4, no points, -1.
Next 5: no points, -1.
Next 5: (big week. though points came form WAS and FLA)- 2 games- 3g, 1a, +2. other 3 games- no points, -3.

It continues like that, for each season. I'm not saying he needs to score every game... but a week where he comes out + would be nice. Sorry, I just can't see calling him a consistent player.

I like him too... (which I've said :) )... I think he's going to be a big name in the NHL some day... but he's Far from it now. he needs work. he needs some extra bulk on him. he needs confidence.
prime candidate for lowell, imho. at least for some of the year. but, as I've said a few times now. I hope he takes the deal. in a few years he's probably going to be pretty deadly.

[cmw00]

Well that is consistent for him. When you only score 8, 14, and 10 goals in all 3 of your NHL seasons. Atleast he isn't really getting worse.

He had such a bad year last year people say, but 10 goals in 57 games was on pace to break all his scoring records. Last year was his best seasons scoring wise.

I think its to late to move him to the minors. I mean think about it, you take a young guy with decent potentials to be a good player, who has had alot of responsibility put on him in only 3 years with the canes, and then dump him back down to the minoirs? That would be a serious blow to him. It would destroy any confidence he had in his team himself and it would destroy alot of confidence his teammates had in him.

I think Jo is a player that we either got to stick with on the canes or trade him completely out of the organization.

[Guyute]

Well, take a look at how many (very good) options we have at Forward, coming into camp this year. Some people will Not make top 9 or 12. It's very possible Joe is not one of them. Especially if Staal blows the doors off of everyone at camp. You also have the addition of Marty Murray, which could easily overtake someone's 3rd line spot.

There are few guys who have a position locked. But, I can't agree with saying if Joe doesn't have a good camp, he should be traded, because sending him to Lowell would do no good. He's 23. He's still very young. Yes he's been given a lot of responsibility with the canes in his 3 years.... but you have to realize, that could be the Problem. Tanabe was handled the same way... and because of that... I doubt he'll ever reach the potential he could of if he was given more time.

Letting Joe beatup on guys in Lowell isn't detrimental to his career. It could be what helps get him to greatness. Everyone gets sent down at some point. Yes, when you're told, I'm sure it's a rather crushing blow. But, you don't think these guys don't work 10x as hard while they're down there to prove that they should be with "the club" ? of course they do. It's a motivational technique that has been used for decades.

[cmw00]

Letting Joe beatup on guys in Lowell isn't detrimental to his career. It could be what helps get him to greatness. Everyone gets sent down at some point. Yes, when you're told, I'm sure it's a rather crushing blow. But, you don't think these guys don't work 10x as hard while they're down there to prove that they should be with "the club" ? of course they do. It's a motivational technique that has been used for decades.

I see your point but it could be a 2 edged sword though. I just don't think he should be sent to the minors. He does have alot of NHL experience when compared to other guys his age and younger. Now that we are sharing Lowell there will be even less room on it. I think we have some other guys that need the minors more than Jo. I think he could atleast center the 4th line, or even play a wing.

I think he could break out at anytime and get his hall of fame career going. :beatup:

[Guyute]

I think he could break out at anytime and get his hall of fame career going. :beatup:

he could. which is why your thought of either play him with the canes, or trade him, made no sense to me. getting rid of him isn't a viable option... as the kid will most likely be Very good in the future. He has the talent.

But, look at our Center situation.
Ronnie, Brindy, Joe, Kevyn.. now, ad Staal (who possibly could start with the club) and several other youngsters. Putting Joe on the 4th line just to keep him from going to Lowell isn't really an option if we have someone else playing well that could use that highly sought-after spot.
Yes- sharing Lowell Will turn out to be a big problem. I don't like it at all. We've just lost half of the room for our farmies.

[cmw00]

which is why your thought of either play him with the canes, or trade him, made no sense to me.

Guess I should have siad it would be better for the canes but possibly disastorus for him.

as the kid will most likely be Very good in the future. He has the talent.

I guess it comes down to do you want to try to be better now or do you want to take a chance on the possibility of being better in the future? Its really hard to say whats best for the canes right now.


But, look at our Center situation.
Ronnie, Brindy, Joe, Kevyn.. now, ad Staal (who possibly could start with the club) and several other youngsters. Putting Joe on the 4th line just to keep him from going to Lowell isn't really an option if we have someone else playing well that could use that highly sought-after spot.

I highly doubt Staal will make the team. I hope he does, because if he does that means he is going to be one of the greatest ever baring no major injuries. I just think he'll have to be that good to make the team this year.

Yes- sharing Lowell Will turn out to be a big problem. I don't like it at all. We've just lost half of the room for our farmies.

Tell me about it! What was the point in this???

[Shell]

Panthers seek added depth in versatile MacDonald
By Michael Russo
Staff Writer, Sun-Sentinel
Posted August 14 2003

The Panthers are close to signing Carolina Hurricanes free-agent forward Craig MacDonald, sources say.

While MacDonald should battle for a roster spot, he will likely start the season in San Antonio, the Panthers' AHL affiliate. But the versatile center and left wing should be one of the team's first recalls in times of need.

The Panthers are in need of added depth because Jeff Toms and Serge Payer, two of San Antonio's top forwards, are expected to sign with clubs in Europe.

The 6-foot-2, 200-pound MacDonald, 26, is considered a well-rounded, hard-nosed, intelligent two-way forward. While he should be a 40- to 50-point player in San Antonio, he would be looked upon mostly for his grit, defensive play and penalty killing with the Panthers.

MacDonald, a fourth-round pick by Hartford in 1996, played 35 games with the Hurricanes last season and had six points in 58 career games with Carolina.

[Turbulence]

I'm glad he found a good home...he did a great job in captaining Lowell this year.

[Jeff O Rocks]

Way to go CMac....hope all goes well for him! :spin:

[moonstomper]

Good for Craig! I hope he likes San Antonio though, the heat and humidity can cause people to collapse from exhaustion :D

[MoBigRed]

Good for Craig! I hope he likes San Antonio though, the heat and humidity can cause people to collapse from exhaustion :D


What are you trying to do, open the floodgates?

Speaking of floodgates, when C-Mac is called up and the Panthers visit Raleigh, the Canes will crush them like bug. Yes, like bug. They will run those Cats up and down the ice until... (insert punchline here)http://www.randakk.com/emo/thatguy.gif

[StormShaman]

Speaking of floodgates, when C-Mac is called up and the Panthers visit Raleigh, the Canes will crush them like bug. Yes, like bug. They will run those Cats up and down the ice until... (insert punchline here)http://www.randakk.com/emo/thatguy.gif


*facepalm*

[Jeff O Rocks]

[(insert punchline here)http://www.randakk.com/emo/thatguy.gif

Ummmmmmmmm..until CMac collapses??? :D That poor guy if he is called up and plays for the Panthers, we will all be watching him to see how his legs are holding up!! :D

I do hope he does well!!

[Stormbringer]

What everyone else has said...wishing Craig the best. :cool:

[Shell]

Good for Craig! I hope he likes San Antonio though, the heat and humidity can cause people to collapse from exhaustion :D

They are lucky indeed!!! The only time I have ever collapsed was in San Antone.. and I had no C Mac to save me. Horrible times those were ;)

[ontheboards]

What everyone else has said...wishing Craig the best

Hey Stormbringer-- succumbing to peer pressure?? hehehe

[Stormbringer]

What everyone else has said...wishing Craig the best

Hey Stormbringer-- succumbing to peer pressure?? hehehe

Don't you mean "collapsing"? ;)

[Jeff O Rocks]

Poor CMac ..he is probably glad to be away from us nuts..watching every move he makes to see if he will fall out.. :D and you know he is thinking..."I won't have to take those little brats around in my mini van anymore"!! :D

[moonstomper]

It was officailly announced on the panthers website today...C-Macs a cat

[MoBigRed]

Best of luck to him. Maybe he and Ritchie can get the magic back.

[Turbulence]

Numbers are now listed for some of the newest 'Canes.
Boughner-8
Murray-15
Bayda-16
Ziggy-18
Heerema-21
DeFauw-28

The rest of the group retain their numbers from last year. Markov and Tetarenko have no numbers listed.

[StormShaman]

Numbers are now listed for some of the newest 'Canes.
Boughner-8

:eek2:

The poor *******--he's been saddled with the Curse of Eight! :eek:

[Shell]

Numbers are now listed for some of the newest 'Canes.
Boughner-8
Murray-15
Bayda-16
Ziggy-18
Heerema-21
DeFauw-28

The rest of the group retain their numbers from last year. Markov and Tetarenko have no numbers listed.

wow, I was worried for a second.. I thought you meant their +/- LOL

Thanks for the info!! Lots new to memorize ;)

[Turbulence]

More Numbers...Training Camp folks and new people...
Eric Staal- 12
Allan Rourke- 23
Joey Tetarenko- 33
Rob Zepp- 50
Danny Markov- 55
Sean Curry- 58
Cam Ward- 70

Now Brendl is numberless...

[e2ipiand1]

Hey, you SNOOZE, you LOSE!

[StormShaman]

Brendl is numberless because Markov was given the number that he's had in Phoenix and Toronto.

That's all.

[Shell]

I think there is more of a statement to it than that.. Bates was 13, but he couldn't go to Colorado and tell Hinote to give it up, even though Bates had the number longer.

[Turbulence]

Or maybe Markov asked nicely and Brendl gave it up...who knows. I don't think it was a seniority deal....Even Ronnie Francis had to wear #21 when he came here because #10 was taken...

My bet is that Brendl gave the number to Markov...instead of Markov taking it away from him.

[Shell]

true, good point. :)

[StormShaman]

Even Ronnie Francis had to wear #21 when he came here because #10 was taken...

Actually, Gary Roberts did offer to give up #10--Ronnie declined because (he said) he'd always wanted to wear #21.

Just sayin'.

[MoBigRed]

Actually, Gary Roberts did offer to give up #10--Ronnie declined because (he said) he'd always wanted to wear #21.


Are you sure about that? The story i'd always heard was that Francis offered Roberts cash to get the number but Roberts wouldn't go there, so Francis just doubled the number and added one 'for luck'.

Of course, we all know how those 'stories' go...