Goaltending Future

[Vrbata19]

I can't help but wonder how JR is thinking when it comes to goaltending. Weekes only gets signed for 1 year? I hope he isnt counting on DesRochers being near starting calibur. I can't wait to see when Cam Ward comes up to Lowell. He put up 2.10 GAA, 40-13-3, with a .920 save percentage. He also put up similar numbers in the WHL playoffs. I've heard some argue that he has too good of a defense in front of him with Dion Phaneuf and Derek Endicott. But, Joffrey Lupul and pretty much the whole Kelowna Rockets team can put up as great as an offensive threat as he needs to get a good feel down there.

Anyway, I'd like to see Weekes sign a multi-year deal this offseason, he is what we need, the concussion is the only thing that knocked him back 2002-2003. Props to Shady 80.
Anyone have a predicition to add about Ward's future?

[Turbulence]

I think the one year deal was only a result of all NHL teams wanting as few contracts to extend pass next year because of the expiration of the CBA...were this not the case I think we'd see longer term deals across the board.

As far as the future, I have an optimistic look about Weekes. He was absolutely stellar before his concussion...and with our new steady defense in front of him I have hope that he'll be a league-leader once again. And he's still young...even if he hast to act as the backup, I think he can be a good player for this franchise for years to come.

Obviously the future of this franchise is Cam Ward...and Rob Zepp to a lesser extent...and Petruk to the least extent. I don't know how good Ward will be. He has been awesome in the juniors, but going from juniors to the AHL or even the ECHL is a huge step up in talent and competition. I have the optimistic look that he'll make the transition seamlessly, possibly this year to the Everblades. Zepp's been OK with Florida but he was nothing more than mediocre in his few games with Lowell...but he has mucho potential. I see him as a NHL backup somewhere down the road.

[Tatfever]

I think Weekes will be with your team for a while. I do believe the CBA was the reason for the 1 year contract.
If anything, ask yourself this question as fans of the Hurricanes. Which goalie in the system is even close to making it to the show? I watched Petruk a lot last year, and while I think he is good, he is still a little bit away.
As far as Zepp being mediocore in Lowell, anybody they had in goal last year was mediocore if not worst unfortunaley.
Another question that should be asked, is that due to Calgary being in Lowell this year, Carolina only has one goalie here. Who would you as a fan rather see here? Zepp or Petruk? I was looking forward to seeing both this year, but that won't happen.
If Ward comes to Lowell, I still see that 2-3 years away :sad: .

[Turbulence]

I'd rather see Zepp in Lowell. He is the only goalie signed to a contract in the minors who has a chance with the big club. I think he'll be ready for AHL action this year.

[Shell]

I've probably said it before, but I'd like to reiterate how great it is to have you Tatfever,, even though you're not a Canes fan first you have the best insight of all into Lowell! Thanks for always sharing with us! I definitely put high value on your Lowell opinions. Keep getting those season tickets every year! LOL

[tommy]

As for Weekes, I hope he doesn't pull a Willis, and never be the same after his injury. But I'm confident that in the next few years we will have some awesome goalies all competing for a spot on the roster. Honestly, though, I'm not counting on having an all-star goalie this year.

[Tatfever]

I've probably said it before, but I'd like to reiterate how great it is to have you Tatfever,, even though you're not a Canes fan first you have the best insight of all into Lowell! Thanks for always sharing with us! I definitely put high value on your Lowell opinions. Keep getting those season tickets every year! LOL

Thank you Shell. This is just one of the strangest offseasons in Lowell because I am not really sure what identity this team will have :crazy: .
We could have one of two goalies here, the only defenseman I know that will be here is Malec, and the forwards are competing for spots in Carolina.
This team was in essence stripped down to nothing and I look for information everyday hoping to find something new that will help me.
BTW - season tickets already placed. Much cheaper for me. :D

[Turbulence]

How about Giguere? (Look at the top bar!) (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/player_bio.asp?player_id=570&hubName=CAR)

:D If only...

[Captain Slack]

How about Giguere? (Look at the top bar!) (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/player_bio.asp?player_id=570&hubName=CAR)

:D If only...

Ahhh.... In a perfect world!!