If NHL free agency were a game of Texas Hold ‘Em, we’d be at the stage where everybody is peeking at their hole cards, checking the flop and calculating the odds of drawing an inside straight. He who bluffs best usually wins.
Ryan Smyth’s agent Don Meehan and Islanders general manager Garth Snow talked on Monday and are planning to talk again today, Meehan said last night. The question is whether Meehan and Smyth are using the Islanders to build the pot or whether there is genuine interest in signing up for the long haul on the Island, which probably was among the last places Smyth ever imagined himself going before the trade on Feb. 27.
“We’re having ongoing discussions,” Meehan said yesterday. “Garth is well-intentioned. We’re having good discussions, but it’s complex.”
Asked if there is any possibility Smyth would sign with the Isles before the free agent market opens on Sunday, Meehan didn’t even look at his cards before saying. “It’s too early to tell.”
Have the Islanders made a firm offer? “I won’t discuss negotiations,” Meehan said.
Snow isn’t discussing negotiations either. The Islanders have been scrupulous in trying to avoid any false steps in their talks with Smyth. Snow rolled the dice big-time in February and didn’t see a payoff because of concussions that kept goaltender Rick DiPietro out of the lineup and likely cost the Isles a shot at sixth in the Eastern Conference and a shot at an Atlanta team that they could have beaten in the first round.
Now, Snow and owner Charles Wang are trying to avoid crapping out in July. If they don’t get Smyth’s name on the dotted line of a long-term contract, then, they have suffered a major loss by any objective standard. The certified NHL experts will say they sacrificed far too much to rent Smyth – two first-round prospects and a first-round pick.
Personally, I found it refreshing that they took such a risk after so many years of Islanders management talking about landing the big one but never actually doing it. Then, they backed it up with the bold stroke of cutting ties with Alexei Yashin to open the captaincy for Smyth. There’s a danger they will have nothing to show for those moves except the bill for Yashin’s $17.63 million buyout, but they made the moves necessary to show what’s left of their fan base that they are serious about winning.
Smyth faces a real challenge to all his instincts. I don’t think Calgary can afford him, and I would be stunned if the ex-Oiler went there, anyway. But Captain Canada in Toronto? Yeah, that fits. How many times would he appear on “Hockey Night in Canada?” Isles fans are passionate, but the atmosphere simply isn’t the same as in Canada.
Is Smyth prepared to join coach Ted Nolan in attempting to rekindle the flame that once burned so brightly on Long Island? That’s a tough one.
If money talks, then, the Islanders will be in it. One knowledgeable NHL source said Smyth asked for $5.5 million per year for five years, and the Oilers offered $5.4 million plus a skybox to make up the difference. Maybe Smyth was ready to leave, knowing he could get $6 million or more somewhere else.
The Islanders can set the bar by offering $30 million over five years, but if that’s not good enough to sign Smyth by July 1, they should wait to see what the market price is for a 31-year-old player with a lot of mileage and then decide if he’s worth it. There’s no doubt about Smyth’s leadership ability and hockey smarts, but how long will his body hold up?
The showdown comes Sunday when everybody turns over all their cards.
POTI WILL TEST MARKET: At $2.75 million, some thought the Islanders overpaid for defenseman Tom Poti last season. Then he led the team in ice time and assists. After Montreal signed Andrei Markov to a four-year deal averaging $5.75 million and Philadelphia signed Kimmo Timonen to a six-year deal averaging $6.3 million, Poti is virtually obligated to see what the market will bear in his case.
“We’re trying to find a number that works for both sides,” said Rick Curran, Poti’s agent. “But the market is in flex now. Neither side is closing the door to the possibility of reaching an agreement. I’m not putting a time frame on it. We’re both willing to wait and see how the market unfolds…the door is wide-open to the Islanders.”
There’s no question Poti enjoyed last season with the Isles, and he expressed a desire to return when the season ended. Maybe the contracts for Markov and Timonen were aberrations, but if Poti’s price goes much beyond $3.5 million per season, the Isles might have yet another job opening to fill.
ISLES QUALIFIERS: As expected, the Islanders have made qualifying offers to restricted free agents Trent Hunter and Chris Campoli. Andy Hilbert did not receive a qualifying offer and will become unrestricted on July 1. But the Islanders have not cut ties with him and still might sign Hilbert later.
Comments (185)
Thanks once again Mr. Logan.
With Isles fans in a fenzy over all the Smyth rumors, you provide such much needed insight into the whole situation.
Have a good time on vactation, but I EXPECT another entry by you on July 1st...no matter if we draw a Royal Flush, or 2 pair. ;)
-Dom.
With the Flyers raising the pay scale so high for D now, it's become even more important to get Campoli and Gervais established in the line up. The salary cap is rising right along with the $$$ the FA's will be getting on July 1st. If we sign Smyth and /or any other significant FA, we'll definitely need Bruno and Campy getting prime time on the back line. I continue to believe MAB is a pantload Edmonton was happy to unload.
If where going to have to pay a defenseman $5 million....I would rather Brad Stuart over Tom Poti...Poti is good....but not that good
Smitty would be a huge signing as we most likely will lose much in points with the loss of yashin blake and smyth if all goes bad--I do have a problem putting so much cash into one player--ala yashin--but Smitty does bring much leadership to a team--If he wants more then 6 million, we let him go and sign players who WANT to play here and are Nolan types
I have a had time with paying Smyth that kind of money. I am not sure he is worth that much. How will we be able to afford a couple good second tier forwards?
Thanks for the update Greg. Not too encouraging but neither was the scrap heap of a team we started the season with. I would love Smyth as the foundation of this team but also for the right price. As we have learned in the past you cannot put all your eggs in one basket (ala Yashin). Just be patient. Can't believe I am saying that but in Garth we trust. Party on Garth!
This seems to be the only place to get decent Isles info. All of the other "analysts" have the team not interested in anyone, and losing all of their FAs. Nice work, as always Greg.
As for Smyth, with Wang controlling the money, you have to think Smyth was given pretty much a blank check along with all sorts of other promises and commitments. If that's not enough, then we should be looking elsewhere. We don't need another Kirk Muller, imo. I think Smyth is a true hockey player, and he's a great example of what real hockey is all about, and I'm glad I got the opportunity to watch him play the game, but the team has pretty much thrown itself on the train tracks for him, it seems. Sounds like they've been more than accomodating, and have jumped through hoops of fire to show him that they're committed to him. If he reciprocates by not being honest with them, and stringing them along solely so that he can use them to get a better deal elsewhere, then who needs him? If they don't get him signed before July 1, then I think it's obvious he has no intention of signing here, and at that point, they should not stay in the rat race just so that he can use their offers to make more money up in Canada or somewhere out west, all the while wasting the Isles' time that could be better spent pursuing other FAs before they're all snatched up. Just my thoughts.
It is very clear that Smyth probably doesn't want to return to Long Island. If it were just about the money, Smyth would have given Wang a $ amount and crazy Wang would have paid it. I agree with all posters who concede that Smyth is a great forward, great leader, but not talented/skilled enought to make much more than $5-6 million.
Can't wait for Blake to officially be gone...puckhog...selfish....skates with head down...constant turnovers....his numbers will be missed, but all of his negative intangibles wont be...he can take that ugly water rat face to Minnesota...
Poti was serviceable, but is undoubtedly replaceable...please do not overspend here Garth
The Isles are kind of like the Mets right now...you would think based on their expected roster that the Isles would need defense (where the Mets would need pitching). But as it turns out, as last year proved, the Isles lacked the ability to muster up some goals when they really needed to (just like the Mets are strugglin to hit their way out of a paper bag). The playoffs were the epitome of this deficiency, when the Isles constantly found themselves in the 3rd period down by 1 goal while not generating quality scoring chances to give them an opportunity to tie the game...most pressing need for Isles is to add legitimate scoring threats, the type of players who you expect to wind up with a scoring chance everytime he is on the ice...the Isles have lacked this type of player since Ziggy Palffy was sent to LA
Nice post, Candyman. Agree w/ everything...except Blake. I agree he was a puck hog, and that he and the Isles should probably part ways at this point in time, but he had great moments here on LI, I thought, and seemed to acknowledge the area and the fans when interviewed. Personally, I'll give him a big cheer if he comes to NVMC wearing another sweater next year.
HEY! I'm still available!
I hate the Islanders.
Ranger...your an idiot
If you hate the Islanders...go back to your own blog
Never understood how people have the time to spend reading blogs and posting comments to a team they hate...
Get a life
Campoli, Campoli. Should have been a goalie
Campoli, Campoli. Should have been a goalie
“We’re having ongoing discussions,” Meehan said yesterday. “Garth is well-intentioned. We’re having good discussions, but it’s complex.”
How complex can it be? I see two big variables - time and money. How much money over how much time. OK, so there are option years and no-trade clauses, etc. But it just shouldn't be that complicated. Was Meehan being patronizing when he said that Garth is "wee-intentioned"? Like saying... "Thanks for the generosity and all that you've done and are trying to do, but it's just not going to work out." Reminds me of the time that I got dumped by that beautiful blond in high school.
Having Smyth signed before july 1st might have helped getting the interest of other prominent free agent come july 1st when they have lots of similar offer on the table.
Another topic, I truly hope we'll see Arron Asham back with the Isles. Not a real first or second line player but I still believe he can help the isles in many different ways.
I don't think we should be concerned with overpaying, as that is the only way we are going to get top-tiered UFAs... At least with the first one. Look at the Mets and what overpaying for Pedro did. It only made the Mets a destination top players wanted to be and that has paid off for the Mets. Overpaying for the face of the franchise, who is built exactly as the face of the NY Islanders should be, is what they should do, and then sit back and watch others want to play here to bring the cup back where it belongs.
The Islanders need to bring in a Steve Webb type of player back to the team. They need that pest type player, whether he can score goals or not even if it's a guy that's a 5-8 minute per game type player that will get in opponents faces and have them looking over their shoulders. I think this is being overlooked and is something that has really been missing since Webb retired.
Wouldn't playing for Ted Nolan count for something with some of the UFA's?
I know its the NYI, who haven't exactly been respected in a while but in lieu of last season's events I think there are a few who's interest could be piqued if they had a similar offer from another average club.
And the guys who would be curious about it would probably be the guys who would fit into Ted's system.
If it is sold right it could look like a great opportunity to become an important part of the new dynasty starting on the Island.
I'm just talking "piquing a little interest".
...4 days can't come soon enough.
sorry, I meant "in light of last season" not in lieu of.
And here's another idea. What if they asked Smyth to give them some names of people he'd like on his team and said they'd try to get those people. We have no idea what they've been up to. Could it be possible they are talking to several different people on the sly (or GM's)? That's a serious question, I don't know all the rules. But that could also be an explanation for his agent saying "it's complicated", no?
At least this isn't about the rumored new uniforms. :)
Webb fan, the player you would love here is Jordin Tootoo. The first time I saw the kid play I said to myself how great it would be to have him on your team. I think he gets into penalty trouble from time to time and has made some bad judgments and landed suspensions but he hits anything that moves. I am not sure about his contract status with the Preds but he would look good in the blue and orange.
some talking going around about Bill Guerin and the Islanders. 36 goals and 56 points last season and definitely a Nolan type of player.
Isle fan,
Your mets analogy with pedro sounds like it would be a good idea...except for those 2 ugly words...SALARY CAP...while the mets can overspend all they want in order to lure other free agents to their team (which worked really well actually), but the Isles can't afford to smother their roster with overpaid aging forwards who are injury prone...
Campoli, Campoli, should be eaten with guacamole...
Joe in Pequa you are right about TooToo but I think he is under contract until the end of next season. He is Nashville's Steve Webb and plays some exciting hockey. Him and Ted Nolan are both First Nation (Canada's Native Americans) TooToo was the first Inuit to play in the NHL but unfortunately locked up for another season.
It would be great to get Smyth to sign, and I would probably give him 6 a year. I am not paying Tom Poti much more than 3.
A few points on Smyth.
1) It's only reasonable for him to believe that the Isles offer is in his pocket and to test what else is out there.
2) Given the Round One exit, his family probably spent minimal time getting to know the area and it seems that what his family wants is a major consideration. The Isles make only one trip through Calgary/Edmonton in six years--and that's a big negative.
3) Smyth's gut instinct was probably to get out of here as fast possible, but the islanders have made it hard by being so good to him. With all the reasons to leave, I honestly believe he has not categorically rejected the Island and we are still in play.
4) To the extent he ultimately weighs the pros and cons of New York, I also have to believe that the massive beer bottle throwing incident in the playoffs is a big negative. He played to many empty seats during a playoff push--and the one time they fill the building, it's with goons who made it dangerous for players and fans alike. Not a classy move.
Oh well, let's hope for the best.
I don't think the 'well-intentioned' comment should be taken with a grain of salt. I think everyone has known (Garth included) that Smyth will test the waters and will not sign before July 1. By commending the Isles with their 'intentions'I think Meehan is basically saying 'thanks, but no thanks.' I really don't see Smyth coming back.
In which case: trade his rights now before we lose him for nothing.
What the heck happened to the salary cap? I thought it was supposed to reduce salaries and make small market teams competitive. All I see so far, is way overpriced players being signed to ridiculous contracts. I also see players who are second tier stars being valued as if they were Gretsky himself. If you can belive the blogs, players like Smyth, Blake and Gomez are being valued at 5-7 million per year. Where is this money coming from?
There is a joke of a TV contract and ticket prices are as high as they can possibly be.
I watched games all season on VS last year, as well as the Isles, Devils and Rangers on Cablevision.
In most instances, the buildings were half to three quarters full. So, how is the cap rising to 50 million?
Hockey is quickly becomming the quagmire that is the NBA. Oh, that's right....Mr. Bettman
is in charge.
Does anyone else see this coming?
Poti $5 million???????????????????????????????????????????????
You have to be smoking crank to offer that soft, leetch want-to-be $5 mill. No Way!!!!! $3 mill tops!!!
Beware of offering Poti too much $$$ because he's not worth it and there's better value to be had on the UFA defence market. I agree cap doesn't seem to be calming down salaries so it's best we understand how truly valuable our comparatively young assets (Campoli & Gervis)are during this time of pursuing the big name guys like Smyth, Drury ,Briere and Scheinder. My prediction continues to be we have a real shot at Scheinder and that Smyth will go to Colorado if he rejects our offer.
Bill-
The salary cap will never prevent teams from "overpaying" for certain positions--although the NHL cap will hit the top stars--who are limitted in what they can earn.
As I see the still very new salary-cap era, in this environment, the skills of the management team/scouting are far more important. You may end up paying high prices for a few key players (5-8)then have to be an expert in managing salaries/skills for the overwhelming number of remaining players who fill out your lineup--many of whom are interchangeable on paper, but whose on-ice value could go way up or down or depending upon how they fit into a team's skill set or philosophy. The beauty of Lou Lamirillo (sp?) of the Devils has been to find guys who can play their system and train them in that system. A great goalie surely helps, but how many top stars have the Devils carried at one time--and how many of the their former front line (but non-star) players fared as well when playing elsewhere?
In addition, teams have to start thinking about how they'll evaluate and treat young players who are not FA eligible. Is it worth spending more on longer-term deals for a young player now and lock him up at a lower salary when he otherwise could go on to free agency? Btw, I'm talking 4-5 year deals not a DiPi 15 year contract). Will the NHL become like the NFL, where most teams may just have a two to year window to maximize the talent they have before sliding back into the pack, but having a shorter window to rebuild therafter?
The jury is still out on these issues, but I wouldn't lament high salaries too much at this stage.
If you've ever played auction-type Rotisserie leagues, you know that some guys that never win your league go for crazy salaries early and some guys will pay much higher value than expected simply because they desperately need to fill a position and a the player available is the best at the given position at one stage of the auction, with a huge dropoff in talent among the remainder.
However, you also know that there are lots of bargains available for less high-profile talent at all stages of the auction as some teams keep money in reserve for a shot at players still unsigned and competitors simply run out of cash. I always found that rather than holding out for several players, you grab value when you find it and work from there. While the NHL certainly isn't a Fantasy League, I believe these same overarching management principles still apply.
I believe one way the cap is rising is due to the (always) strong draw for the Canadian teams, coupled with the increase in the value of the Canadian dollar.
I know many folks are against it, but I just looked at hockeybuzz.com and supposedly the Isles are targeting some UFA defensemen that have been touted on this blog, Preissing, Schneider, and Hannan, and maybe even anotehr ex-Isle: Roman Hamrlik.
Gotta admit, I wouldn't mind seeing Hamrlik back in blue and orange. Anyone agree/disagree?
Hamrlik is a solid players, puts up respectable offensive numbers, and is usually a "plus" rated defenseman...if the price is right ($3 million/year?) then he would be a good fit for the Isles...
Since people here love to talk about "Nolan-type players" (as if that referred to some superios mental state of extreme work ethic) then I think Garth should focus on Hannan. He would be an upgrade over someone like Hill last year...
OFFENSE OFFENSE OFFENSE
Guys, forget all this defenseman talk, we need forwards. Although I would prefer an upgrade over Gervais/Campoli, I think they will be fine if the top 4 defenseman are a lot better than last years crew, (but please do not pair them together Ted).
Satan will never score 50 goals, idc if Sid Crosby is his Center. Miro is good for 20-30, same with Sillinger, and then there's pretty much a whole. Kozlov unsigned, Blake unsigned, Smyth unsigned, Yashin good ridance, but that means there are a lot of goals to replace. Bergenheim is not gona have some breakout 40 goal season. Hunter might hit 25, Hilbert 15, and then who?
Need some proven scorers. Gomez will probably be too expensive. If Kariya comes less expensive it would be worth to make a strong pitch to him. Handzus could probably chip in. Former Devil/Rags Petr Sykora is a solid player, I hope the Isles make a run at signing him.
Definitely bring back Peca, reuinite him with Nolan when Smyth officially announces that he wont return to the Isles.
I like the idea of bringing Peca back for a discount. I'm thinking a two-year $3 million deal. He has to prove he's healthy.
Not to mention Adam mair is a nice role player from Buff. He would be a good addition for cheap.
Merrick, The beauty of the Devils system was great goaltending and rock solid defense. Stevens, Neidermeyer, Rafalski, Danyeko and now White is coming into his own.
Lou has always let the offense take care of itself, preferring to counterpunch with his attack.
This is why I advocate signing two top four D-men
rather than throwing all that money at Smyth.
DP is about to hit his peak years. With a solid blueline in front of him, he could carry this team deep into the playoffs.
Nolan is big on discipline and any forwards who want to play for him had better learn to backcheck. Now is the right time for the Tambellinis, Begranheims, Neilssens et al to grow under Nolans watch. We have these players under contract for the foreseeable future. Let Nolan break them in and build a cohesive team.
Throwing milions at Smyth is not the answer. At best, he is a second level star who plays the game hard. His best years are behind him and the injury/breakdown factors are a huge concern.
I would rather see Snow sign two solid D-men at 3.5 million each than waste 7 million on Smyth. Yasin and Blake's money could be spent on a couple of scoring forwards.
In any case, it's all going to be up to Smyth. It's obvioulsy his choice to sign or leave. Just a hunch, but I think you have seen the last of him....Bill
"Well intentioned" is not the words I wanna be hearing. Smyth is likely gone. If that is the case, we cannot dwell on the past. With both him and Blake gone, and so many other UFA'S the Islanders must have boatloads of cap room. I would be surprised if we didn't land one big free agent. Nolan and Snow know that this team needs to compete now. They wouldn't have made the Smyth trade if they were planning playing all young players and rebuilding this year. The Islanders will hopefully have a shot to land Briere or Drury, and on the blueline I wouldnt mind bringing back Matthew schnieder. I have allso heard Scott Hannans name connected to the Isles. I am alittle surprised that 3 days before free agency the islander haven't resigned ANY of their ufa's.
Bill, what are your thoughts on Hamrlik; he's averaged $3.5M in salary since '02-03 so he is probably due some kind of raise, and put up decent numbers last year (7-31-38, +22). At maybe 3 yrs/$12M, do you think he is worth it?
Candyman -
While I agree that the salary cap will prohibit from overspending on everyone, there is no way to get the first one without overspending. They overspend on Yashin, which at the time again was the only way to get him here - they just did it on the wrong player. Smyth is the right player for this team, and in today's NHL where good goaltending is the most important thing to winning the cup, and we have one of the best, adding Smyth may just be enough to attract better players here for market value and get us a cup!
D-Money
I like Hamrlik. It appears he has adapted to the new NHL. I also would wish for Hannan and Preissing to accompany him. Two out of those three would solidify the defense. Assuming that you could get all three for in the 10 million range, you would have to kiss Poti, Meyer and Hill goodbye. The bulk of the money would come from Yashin/Poti/Blake all departing.
This wish list would give us Witt. Martinek, Hannan, Hammer,Preissing and MAB on the power play.
Campoli/Gervais would be the extra D-man or if we only sign two of the three from my wish list. Injuries on "D" are inevitable and you can never have enough NHL caliber blueliners.
Personally, I would like to see the Isles take a run at Bill Guerrin if Smyth decides to move elsewhere. He brings a lot of the same qualities and would be a smaller cap hit.
Combined with Sillenger and Witt, that's plenty of experience to influence the younger players.
What do people think of D. Zubrus? He always killed the Isles when he was with Washington. Is he worth a shot?
With Yashin gone and the cap hit+ blake likely gone and Smyth too, its a rebuilding year, again. Why throw dumb money at people.? Sign grit, play tough, improve and make the future great. Nothinng can be done to make the isles a legit team next year. So, why bother?
Well, Hilbert did not get qualified. Good. I never saw a player MISS so many chances to score as him. One spare part gone that hopefully opens a spot for one of the kids.
Now if we can just unload Bates.
What no one mentioned here is: as of this moment, since we cut Yashin free, the team has no marketable offensive star who can be another "face" with DiPietro. A star who they can plaster all over ticket sale pamphlets, billboards, newspaper and TV ads. Smyth is that face. That is why I think they are making such a hard push for him. That, and the fact they want him to be the leader. I say bite the bullet and pay him what he wants. It may just entice other FA's (if we have any money left), who may not have entertained the thought of coming to the Isles, to reconsider.
Check out IslesTV. Lots of interviews and footage from the first day of minicamp today. The team has done a tremendous job with this.
I still can't believe what I see everytime I log on and read this blog.... FANS STILL WANT TO SEE STEVE WEBB OR STEVE WEBB TYPE PLAYERS.
At best he was a fun player to watch on awfull teams.... on a decent team he gets 2-4 minutes and on a good team he would see a lot of the press box and probably be helping put the warm up pucks back in the bag after the shoot-around. Give it up already with the "we need steve webb" crap!
Smyth should've signed already... his "beloved" Oilers let him go over 100k... seriously 100k... we gave up 3 freaking 1st round picks for him... its cool... there's no loyalty anymore. I hope his new squad plays us next year and Witt gives him the "dirty" elboy to the jaw... oh yeah
http://broadband.tsn.ca/tsn/?id=348&vid=9044
You know what? If Smyth signs elsewhere, then good luck to him. If he feels it is better for his family to live in Western Canada, then that's what he should do.
A player like Smyth will get one chance in his career to cash in on his merit. He has earned the right to decide where he wants to play.
Hs doesn't owe the Islanders anything. He never asked to be traded here and played in all of about 20 games. Edmonton didn't show him any loyalty, so why should he feel any towards the Isles?
Personally, I don't want anyone on my team who doesn't want to be here.
All I know is that it's nice to be wanted, and the Isles have made it clear they want Smyth. There is no reason to sign before the July 1st. He would be an idiot to do so. Biggest decision of his career and he is going to make it carefully.
But he will be no Kirk Muller. Whoever Smyth signs with, he will commit to. So if the Isles get Smyth he will give the team everything he has.
I think the agents comment that it is complicated is accurate not patronizing.
Kevin T.
Dreger: Islanders focus on Smyth
Ryan Smyth
Darren Dreger
6/27/2007 9:34:59 PM
As of Saturday, the New York Islanders depth chart didn't have Jason Blake's name on it. However, Ryan Smyth's name was there in big bold letters.
With unrestricted free agency looming for both, the Isles appear prepared to walk away from Blake's career high 40 goals last season to focus on re-signing Smyth.
There is a strong sense the Islanders are about to hit the 31-year-old with an offer he may not be able to refuse.
Speculation suggests the Isles are preparing an offer above $6-million per year over a 7 - 8 year term.
Islanders general manager Garth Snow refutes that, but won't offer any specifics on the progress of his negotiations with Smyth's agent, Don Meehan.
Any long-term agreement is likely to be frontloaded with a steep decline in the latter portion of the contract to make it more team friendly in the event New York, or the successful bidder can initiate a more palatable buyout near the end of the term.
Until an offer materializes, it's Ryan Smyth's design to stay the course, eagerly awaiting the flurry of activity his availability will attract on Sunday.
Suitors for his services will be vast, ranging from the Calgary Flames to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The New York Islanders don't want Ryan Smyth to hit the open market and will pay the premium in an attempt to dissuade him from testing it.
However, the feeling is he's waited this long, why not playing the waiting game for a few more days to truly realize what options he and his family will have.
I said it the second the Isles made the trade, as did many others. You do not give up THREE first round picks for an UNSIGNED player. I love the way the Isles made a splash, and showed some guts, but it was a horrible trade. Those three prospects could have been used to bring a number of other SIGNED players to the island.
With that said I hope he signs even though he gave us a total of ZERO points vs. rivals such as Devils, Rangers, and Ottawa. I realize he brings a ton more to the rink then his point total, but facts are facts.
If he does not sign, use the money to make another splash in the free agent market and turn the page. USe the situation as another learning step towards running the club the correct way.
Blake should get more ink time. The guy gave us his ALL on the island. Enough of all this "selfish" talk. That is nonsense.
The wheeling and dealing starts very soon. If nothing else we will have lots to talk about!
Yeah, no doubt Blake give his all here. He is still a selfish puckhog, whether you want to believe it or not.
I am glad I won't have to see him drive to the net surrounded by two or three players and not passing to one of guys sitting next to the net, just so his selfish ass can shoot and miss the goal again and again. He scored 40 goals this year because all he did was shoot, shoot, shoot. Shoot 20 shots get one in. Again, and again. Not passing so better positioned players could have potted a few more goals, to win us a few more games.
Blake deserves to test free agency for all the times he was the only player hustling on the ice. I think he deserves a payoff for all that. But he is selfish, admit it and move on. That said I will be glad when he is on another team.
Talk around Toronto hockey circles is that Smyth will be chased with a "big offer". If Charles and Garth really want Smyth, they'd better oprn the vault real wide.
Well said Dynasty,
Yes, enough with this Blake garbage, good riddance Mr. Puckhog himself. Blake also scored way more goals than he should have b/c the Isles treated him like a first line forward and gave him plenty of PP time. Most players who skate with their head down and who are weak passers don't get treated as such. So, w/e, fluke year, I'd be surprised if Blake scored more than 25 next year.
Bill, I'm with you, pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee do not overspend on Smyth. Everyone just you wait till december 2007. Isles will be playing the Rags, Smyth goes down to block a shot, BOOOOOM out for season. Smyth is a great player and a great competitor, but he's a high risk type player who's not overly talented offensively. He should not be making more than 5-6 million.
Lastly, on Blake...ugliest player on Isles since Derek King left for Hartford...
Attn. Garth Snow...Stephen Weiss of the Panthers is the perfect replacement for Blake. Speedy, feisty, and right about to have his best year ever. I've watched in in FLA for years, & although FL would love to make him part of their future, they've yet to sign him...
Hey Candyman,
Why are you making comments or even care about what Blake looks like?
It's kind of weird....
The guys has played harder than anyone we have seen in an Islanders uniform in years and is one of the few people that readily admitted that he loved playing here...
Stop hating on Blake.....
Smyth- I agree with whoever said it before... We have offered him a ton and will offer him a higher offer than he deserves... I don't want anyone on the team that doesnt want to be here....
Asham- They need to resign this guy. They have no toughness on this team. Anaheim smashed people throughout the entire playoffs. We need guys that can hit and score. Asham is the closest we have to that....
Here's some additional info on Smyth, Blake, Poti and Hilbert. If the Isles are not going to re-sign Blake they should trade his rights and get something to show for him.
http://www.spectorshockey.net/rumors.html
ISLES TO OFFER SMYTH A HUGE CONTRACT?
TSN.CA: Darren Dreger reports of speculation the NY Islanders are poised to offer Ryan Smyth a 7-8 year contract worth over $6 million per season. It's believed the contract would be heavily front-loaded to make it easier to move or buy out in the latter stages of the deal. Still, it's believed Smyth could still test the UFA market as he's bound to attract considerable interest. The Isles also apparently have no intention of re-signing forward Jason Blake, who had a 40-goal performance last season.
NEWSDAY: Greg Logan reported on his blog that negotiations between Smyth's agent and the Isles are ongoing but neither side would reveal further details. Logan also reported Isles defenceman Tom Poti will test the UFA market. Poti enjoyed playing for the Isles and hoped to return but Logan believes if he gets offers higher than $3.5 million on the open market they won't re-sign him. The club also didn't qualify forward Andy Hilbert thus making him a UFA although it's still possible they could re-sign him later this summer.
MLIVE.COM: Ansar Khan reports it's possible the Detroit Red Wings could afford to sign Smyth, doing a breakdown of the Wings cap space and showing possible signing scenarios. However, he cautions that by potentially tying up so much payroll on so few players the Wings could put them into a similar situation facing the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Spector's Note: I understand the desire of the Isles and their fans to retain Smyth, but that kind of offer is madness, even if it's heavily front-loaded. Remember, it doesn't matter if a contract is front- or back-loaded, it's the average that counts against the cap, meaning it could count as over $6 million per season. Sure, it might prove easier to dump later in the contract, but it's still a big bite out of the Isles payroll and drives the value of comparable players up far too high.
I agree - no more than 6 years for Ryan Smyth - a 6 year deal and the "C" with some input about what players to get for this team should be enough - take it or leave it!! 7 or 8 years is crazy..also make sure the contract is front loaded...Also I agree with Andrew about signing Asham. He is a solid role player who brings some toughness.Don't resign Chris Simon unless its for the minimum.
As for Blake, he may be a little bit of a puckhog but he has always liked playing here and has been such a hardworker & Hustled every shift. Those type of players are hard to find. There are so many lazy players in the NHL who just go out there glide around the ice and collect their pay check...I am sure everyone remembers OLEG KVASHA!!! Resign Blake, 4 years at the most - he looks like he is in good shape to hold up, he has plenty of speed this team needs.
I like Scott Hannah but we already Brendan Witt who is the same exact Player. The Islanders Need an Offensive Defensman and some playmaking centers or forwards!! Offense is the key in the NEW NHL
Andrew,
Your precious Blake has no intention of signing here. You think he was happy here b/c that's all he ever says to the media. He actually only liked it here b/c the Isles were the first real team to give him a shot at playing big important minutes. In that he succeeded by turning into a 40 goal scorer from a 4th line winger.
Personally, I think he is somewhere in between, prob a 2nd or 3rd line player. He did hustle, his work ethic is commendable, but that being said there is ZERO CHANCE that he comes back here. If he loves the Isles as much as you believe he does then one might think him and snow could work something out.
But that is all moot, Blake is gone, so forget it and move on.
Yeah and Blake is still ugly.
Candyman~
MY God you are clueless. The team LOVED Blake....Not sure how many players love puck hogs????
Who will replace his goal scoring? Give me one name for the money he wants? If we sign Smyth(again NO GOALS in any big games down the stretch) who will he pass to? Who will compliment his gritty play with finesse and speed?
You people forget way to easy. Blake was the HEART AND SOLE of the Isles. Smyth may add a ton of intangibles, but if he cannot score and does not have players that are different then him we will be in TENTH place at best!
p.s The fact you are worried about a hockey players looks is beyond scary!?!
The SOLE?
Like, as in one and only?
As in, I have a hole in the ____ of my shoe?
Or do you mean, fillet of ____?
Word around the NHL is that Blake had a career year and won't put up those numbers again, and isn't likely to get 3.5 large a year or better. But before you send him packing, better get a replacement for those wheels.
"The team LOVED Blake....Not sure how many players love puck hogs????"
Steady, where did you hear this? I have always heard he was an abrasive loner in the lockerroom. I never heard anything to suggest otherwise. Even Yashin was known to be well liked by some in the lockerroom, but I've never heard about Blake being loved or even liked by the rest of the team.
Candyman,
With your way of thinking, every team should promote every 4th liner to the first line. They would all be 40 goal scorers... That makes a lot of sense.
He isn't going to come back because he is being slapped in the face by an organization that he played his heart out for, became a fan favorite, and was their 1st 40 goal scorer in 10 years....
They haven't even made an effort to bring him back. That is why you won't see him next year.
Steady,
HAHAHA Soul Man got you good....filet of sole lmfao.....sorry I know we expect at least elementary grads to be writing on here...
The team has pretty much publicly admitted that Blake was not a locker room favorite trust me...and as I have been constantly saying (if you would care to read above) that the Isles NEED scoring since Blake WONT resign, regardless of what I personally think about Blake's abilities...
I'm also worried you were content with the heart & SOUL of your team only caring about his personal stats all year...to me that is "beyond scary!!!!"
And what are you some sort of homophobe? It's "scary" when someone comments on another's looks? All indications are that you must be pretty scary looking yourself. It matters what Blake looks like b/c Fox Sports loves to zoom in on that ugly water rat face....
Ok so I admit the ugly Blake comment was just a joke...of course it doesn't matter what he looks like...I thought that went without saying...hey at least I got a rise outa you...moreso than Teddy ever got outa Alexei