Long-running rumors of a deal that would send Toronto defenseman Bryan McCabe back to the Islanders simply will not die. Last summer, the gossip was on the order of wishful thinking by Maple Leafs management and the Toronto media, but despite sending conflicting signals recently, McCabe has indicated he would consider waiving his no-trade clause.
During an interview on Hockey Night in Canada Saturday night, McCabe said he would consider accepting a trade. A report in the Toronto Star said McCabe would agree to go to the Islanders, Rangers or Philadelphia. His wife, Roberta, is from Long Island, and the couple maintains its summer home here.
But a Toronto Sun story said McCabe backtracked on his earlier comments after the Leafs’ win over Atlanta. “I want to stay,” McCabe was quoted as saying. “I signed here and choose to stay here because this is where I want to be…There are no guarantees, but I don’t want to move. My wife is seven months pregnant. We don’t want to go anywhere.”
The Sun report said McCabe did not give interim general manager Cliff Fletcher a list of teams he would consider. But he did leave the door ajar. If Fletcher came to him with a trade offer, McCabe said, “I’d consider it.”
Islanders general manager Garth Snow can’t discuss players from other teams, but he has the salary cap space to take McCabe’s onerous contract, which averages $5.75 million and runs for three more seasons after this one. Snow said he regards his salary cap space as a valuable commodity on a par with players, prospects and draft picks. As such, any deal that helps another team dump salary would require that team’s first-round draft pick as part of the package.
No doubt, Fletcher would resist giving up what figures to be a high first-round pick in what is regarded as one of the most talent-laden drafts in years. His efforts to rebuild the Leafs' roster suffered a serious blow when captain Mats Sundin refused late Sunday night to waive his no-trade clause. If Fletcher had been able to trade Sundin he would have gotten another team's first-rounder in the package, and it might have been easier to part with his own No. 1 to unload McCabe. Now, Fletcher has a tough decision to make.
“Look at San Jose and Vladimir Malakhov,” one Western Conference personnel expert said, referring to a deal in which the Devils sent Malakhov and a first-round pick to the Sharks before last season because they had to clear salary cap space. “There’s a precedent. That’s been real. If I worked for the Islanders, that’s what I’d preach.”
A deal sending McCabe to the Islanders remains a longshot at this point, but if Fletcher yields his first-round pick, it could become a real possibility.
Comments (104)
If this deal materializes, it would be great for the Isles. McCabe logs big minutes, has a booming shot, and would allow the Isles to have a physical d-man in every rotation (Witt, Sutton, McCabe). Plus, the Leafs first round pick will let us land us a stud! Hopefully, we get another 1st rounder in a deal for Satan.
Considering that the Isles were drafting 5th a week and a half ago and now we're slotted in to draft 15th I'd welcome McCabe and Toronto's pick. That would do two things ... help improve our team now and give us a solid run at the playoffs and secure us 2 first rounders in a very deep draft (including a top 3 pick potentially). We have the cap space and can easily absorb McCabe's contract.
Plus, next year, we'll have a top 6 defense of Witt-Martinek-Sutton-McCabe-Campoli-Gervais/Meyer. That's completely solid.
McCabe could be had, but not for nothing. Logan is making it seem like we could get McCabe and a top-5 pick for nothing. We would have to give them a lot in order for Toronto to make that swap. Further, Sundin has indicated that he will not waive his NTC, so there's goes that idea.
CM, dead on man. Now, Cliff Fletcher has to use at least two guys to probably fetch the return he had hoped for in the one Sundin trade. And, let's face it, McCabe's salary after this free agent period is going to look fantastic in relation to what guys like Campbell get (remember what the Flyers did last year in driving up the price of D-men, well it's probably gonna happen again this year). So, he is now gonna command more for McCabe - and someone will do it, but I am not sure the Isels should, unless they can get TOs pick.
So, does Sundin remain a Leaf after the offseason?
That's a tough call - it's fully within his rights to retain the no-trade clause, but it seems to me like a cop-out and not the move of a captain. He should want the team to improve, and nothing says he can't come back in the off-season, so I would call this a gutless move by Sundin. That's especially true since you know the Toronto press will savage the front office and let Sundin escape unscathed from this whole thing.
As for the McCabe situation, I agree that it would be necessary to get the first-round pick....what if we were to SWAP first-round picks as part of the deal and then try to use Satan and/or Comrie to get more first-round picks? That could really help our cause, and instead of rooting against the Isles we'd need to root against the Leafs in order to get Stamkos.
Bri, You think Meyer's development and signing makes Gervais expendable? Maybe a pot sweetener in a deal for McCabe? I could see it, but like CM said who would it cost up front in low salary prospects or draft picks?
Maybe Tambellini-Gervais-Isles 1st Rder for McCabe and TOs 1st Rder?
Not sure they are gonna part with that 1st Rder after losing out on the rewards of trading Sundin
nick i completely agree with you man. if we were to get mccabe, the most reasonable route to take would be to swap 1st round picks which i would do in a heartbeat. think of it this way, we can get mccabe and possibly steven stamkos. we can get another 1st rounder for either satan or comrie. as posted in an earlier blog by someone, if we were to get tangauy, we would most likely need to give up satan to calgary which i really wouldnt mind. as mentioned by someone earlier, yes i might have been underestimating satan's value now that sundin is presumably of the trade market. that drives up the cost of someone like satan. lets make this a solid trade deadline and lets go islanders!
Sounds reasonable and would be the best of all worlds for the Isles. Isles should also look at Peca as a rental replacement for Silli as Columbus will be selling and probably won't want much for him.
Satan hasn't been asked to waive his NTC and Comrie has been tendered, so they are likely off the market. Tank and Vas have not been tendered, so they may be trade bait.
But to build on that, Bill...I expect Snow has offers for Comrie in his back pocket in case they can't get an extension done in the next 24 hours.
I still think Alex Tanguay would come relatively cheaply, since Calgary would be trading him for both whatever the Isles gave up AND the flexibility to bring back Huselius and Langkow. He's a great playmaker and would really boost the scoring abilities of whomever he plays with. I'm in favor of the move.
Nick
I don't know if you know this, but since i brought up Tanguay before and you and Steady talked a little more about him, the Hockeybuzz actually has Tanguay going to the Islanders as a possibility....what a jinx
I did see that, I'm a loyal hockeybuzz reader and skeptic....I joked that it was e2 because Steady and I are the sources.
I would love to have him. He'd be great with a playmaker like Comrie.
I would go after McCabe when his contract goes down after one more year. He would be an upgrade, but i'm not sure about the money right now.
Netminder, does it matter that his contract goes down next year, or would our cap hit still be the average over the life of his deal?
Also, I guess I would hate to give up anything for McCabe if he is gonna be bought out...any speculation there from any of the pundits?
One thing I would hate is to see McCabe in a Rags uni...
All I know, is that no matter how much noise is made over one player, it is taking the focus off another somewhere else.
Does anyone find it any bit of a coincidence that the Islanders announced that Sillinger will be out the remainder of the year? I don't know the specifics - but wouldn't his salary now come off the books the rest of the year?
We now have money back on the books for Campoli, Sim, Bates and Sillinger if I am correct. That is a decent amount of money (for what remains of this year, not full contract monies).
Too many different variables to get a complete handle on.
I agree though, McCabe's salary will be a bargain compared to the going rate July 1st.
http://www.islesblogger.com
D $
No the contract really doesnt matter, but if this defense could stay healthy, then only speaking for myself, i would be content with what we have.
I would rather spend the money on a top winger to form a first line, which is something this team really has been lacking.
Logan brougt up a good point stating that McCabe's contract may actually be a decent price after some of the impending UFA's deals this summer.
I don't think the Rangers woud have the cap to absorb his salary
but to be honest, i'm not entirely sure.
Michael S
yes the insurance does pick up the rest, and it is not a hit on the cap......for this year.
As you mentioned they're back next year, so the best we could be looking at is a rental with that scenario.
Here are the rumors I AM paying attention to.....from two time zones away..
Newsday is considering a deal with Ward Melville HS that would send Jim Baumbach to Melville for a freshman graphic designer and a janitor to be named later.
Greenpeace is actively working the phones lines on a trade that would bring them D-money in exchange for a Brown's Pygmy Possum, a Wild Common Carp and an undisclosed amount of Great Apeschit.
19Isles is rumored to be going to the Russian News Agency Isvestia in exchange for an autographed manuscript of Tolstoy's War and Peace. The Internet is also involved, offering up to 1 billion gigabytes to get him off of cyberspace.
The Vatican is feverishly trying to close a deal that would bring them Steady in exchange for St. Christopher and St. Nicholas.
Kellenberg HS is offering Nick and 15 female cheerleaders to the Chaminade Alumni Association in exchange for 4 English teachers and a 3 million dollar endowment from their Alumni coffers.
Based on recently released conspiratorial rumors, (the last blog) Oliver Stone is trying to close a deal for AZS that would move him onto his soon to be released film controversy entitled "The Zapruder Project".
Coral and Cincy are rumored to be going to FSNY in exchange for Howie Rose.
Met's pitchers, Santana and Martinez, who have promised that they will throw a no-hitter this year, are said to be trying to block the deal.
The Lighthouse Project is said to be offering KH and Merrick to the Barack Obama Campaign in exchange for a new Town Of Hempstead Supervisory Board.
After his recent appearance as a guest interviewer on Islander TV, Newsday is exploring offers from CNN that would send Greg Logan to Baghdad and or Kabul in exchange for Christianne Amanpour, Fox News is said to be offering Geraldo.
And finally,
The Mars Corporation is trying to secure Candyman in exchange for a bag of M+M's
;)
And in one of the more bizarre and self-serving rumors to hit the trade deadline this season, The Islanders "Core of Four" Celebration Committee is said to be negotiating with Chilkoot Charlies (www.koots.com) in Anchorage for the barstool (tree stump) that Islander505 sat on and watched the Isles 4 Stanley Cup championships in the early 80's. The stool/stump would serve as a PEDESTAL for the Stanley Cup when it arrives in NVMC on Sunday.
The Core of Four Committee has offered to send Islander505 back to Koots for a 3 year, fully paid "reconditioning assignment" as well as send a cash amount equal to what he spent in the bar from 79-83.
Koots management had this to say about the proposal...
"Wow"
"We're goin to Disneyland..... and Hawaii and Fiji".
Islander505 agreed to waive his no trade clause as long as both parties agreed to burn down the bar where he watched the Oilers beat the Isles in 1984--Land's End in Homer- and promised to stay out of Koots on Monday nights. He also promised to look up the mothers of Scott Gomez and Brandon Dubinsky to see what he could do about replenishing the depleted Islander farm system.
I am doubtful about Tanguay because (1) Flames are in a fight for a playoff spot and hope to advance as well (2) Flames would want back draft picks or prospects Isles either don't have or won't give up.
Peca seems more likely. He is a fan favorite here and knows the organization. He played with Bergeron and Satan on Stanley Cup finalists. Most of all, there is very positive history between Coach and Peca. Check out this quote from last year:
Leafs centre Michael Peca played for Nolan in Buffalo and says it's about time.
"I think he's a guy that was wronged in Buffalo," said Peca. "It's been a long time coming for his second chance and I think he's going to make a lot of it."
Like Maurice, Peca isn't shocked Nolan has the Islanders playing above expectations.
"The thing with Teddy is that he establishes and instils confidence in people," said Peca. "He gives everybody an opportunity. If you have a coach that's straight-forward and honest and let's you know where you stand, you're going to have a greater appreciation for that coach.
"One of his greatest strengths is the ability to motivate people. So I'm not surprised at all."
He still has talent and heart. He has experience. He has positive history with several Isle players, the organization, the fans, and Coach Nolan. And the Isles would not have to give up a top prospect or first round pick to get him.
As to McCabe, perhaps the Leafs could pay some of his salary and give the Isles a 2nd or third round pick.
Under NHL rules, I don't think you can pay part of the salary of a player you trade. Sorry, Bill.
The Leafs are desperate for cap room. Sundin, Kaberle and Tucker have already said they won't go (all have NTCs), so McCabe is a logical target. But Isles would be mad to take his contract without some serious sweetening. Snow has correctly diagnosed cap room as a valuable commodity, and he has plenty. He might give up Gervais for NcCabe if Leafs will flip No. 1 picks.
The Isles need talent. Their performance is overshadowing the fact that this is the least-talented team in the NHL. Snow couldn't do a Smyth-type trade now because he doesn't have the young players to trade (assuming he won't deal Okposo, which he's pretty much decided won't happen).
Satan should be persuaded to give up his NTC (think $$ and a chance to play for the Cup). All of Isles pending free agents have value because they have no long-term commitments. BTW: Don't be surprised if Snow gets lots of inquiries on Witt (assuming he'll be OK in a week or two). He's a perfect add for a team like Detroit, is signed for another season at manageable $$ and is a positive force on the ice and in the room. Not saying he'll be traded, only that Isles are likely to get offers.
Ya know ... when I said in the previous thread or was it the one before that? ... that the Isles should try to get Caber and their 1st round pick since the Isles cap space was equity I truely thought I was making a stretch ... half joking ... and wishful thinking. However, it does seem like Toronto's only option ... so far ... to freeup cap space.
I'll be all eyes and ears.
Busy day for me once again.
Later Skaters
Funny stuff as always 505....Keep that up and I will surely make you "Court Jester!" :)
McCabe and their first pick....MY God......I will NEVER use the term "Bobbleheads," again !!!! That would be a steal fo all steals!
The best thing we have on our side is that McCabe wants to play HERE !!! He will nto waive his no trade to go anywhere far from here....The rangers do NOT have the cap space.......How about a package of a player and our #2 pick............For McCabe and tehir #1.....Toronot has to get rid of this guy....They are strapped and sinking!!!!! Again....Other teams may offer better deals, but if he does not waive the "No Trade," than they are stuck !!!
GO GET EM GARTH !!!!!!!!!!!!!
** I also found it VERY interesting that Satan would fetch a #1 wick....Not just Newsday, but other sources say the same. If that is true..........GO FOR IT GARTH!!!
sorry for all the spelling errors...Long weekend!
One more before I watch the market spiral downward.
***If we sneak into the playoffs as a #8.....And everything else was status quo....ISLES VS. DEVILS round 1 !!! Imagine that with McCabe and Witt back!!! Come guys, even the biggest doubters would love that one!!! I would come to NY for the week!
The rangers would face Carolina line one....so get ready for the rolls b/c they would cream them!
SO KEEP BELIEVING FOLKS.....We GOTTA GET IN THE TOP 8 !!!!!
****The Oracle has some scary visions of tonights game. Another team that owes us for Arbour night. I will go out on a limb RIGHT NOW !!! Win tonight and we WILL make the playoffs !!!!! Only disclaimer is a fire sale on Tuesday! :) ::)
It's been confirmed through a few outlets that the Islanders will only do the McCabe deal if the Leafs first-round pick is included.....so THIS is what it feels like to have an intelligent human being running the team...Milbury would've traded Okposo, Comeau, and DP for McCabe, then he would've slandered DP in the press for about 2 months.
By the way, oh Oracle Steady, since your wife is a BU alum, I would like your approval to share an unbelievable story I heard that shattered both facets of my hockey fandom
Why would Toronto even consider that? The Isles would need to up their offer for that to play out--Snow should stand strong and see how desperate the Leafs really are...
As I proposed yesterday, putting together a package (2 players I'd say - maybe Gervais and Colliton?) for McCabe and then swapping first-round picks COULD be something...maybe Toronto is willing to drop a few spaces in this year's draft in exchange for cap flexibility.
Let's remember what's left of Todd Bertuzzi fetched a first-round pick last season. You never know what motivates GM's, and since Sundin now waived his no-trade Fletcher needs to do something....I'd say the possibility of increased cap flexibility, combined with the fact that McCabe has a no-trade that makes the Islanders one of the very few players for his services (if not the only player), could swing him....that ticking clock makes people do crazy things.
Correction - now that Sundin has REFUSED to waive his no-trade.
I will go on record as saying, getting McCabe for almost 6M/yr does not give me the warm fuzzies. If Fletcher is dumb enough to give away his FIRST pick in THIS draft he will be shot and the Leaf's home will be renamed the Air Head Center.
McCabe would be nice to have, but there will be better "D" bargains come June. Toronto overpaid for him, let them live with that contract. I didn't see a whole bunch of teams lining up to take Yashin off our hands. Between McCabe and Blake we might not have to worry about them as a playoff opponent for quite some time.
A Hockey Buzz blogger suggested that the Isles try to deal Tank and JoVas, then re-sign Comrie. I'm still on the fence about Comrie, but I would definitely try to make offers to Tank and Vasicek. They are 2/3s of our number one line right now and the 3rd guy just signed for 5 years. I'd sign both of them to three year deals (if they can live with salaries within 20% of what they are currently making). If they don't take those deals we are in for a bleak July... As we saw last year, it's tougher to build from scratch in July... we barely got back to the level we were at in April. (a lot less offense/better defensively).
I don't think that Snow wants to give up on the season. With that in mind he can afford to ship Satan, Tank or Comrie... not all three, not two, and not vasicek.
Just my opinion.
I can still see smart selling coming from the Islanders this year...Snow has to understand the nature of this, and the Sundin decision has drastically increased the value of all our players. Tank is a valuable playoff contributor, Comrie is a good option at center, and Satan will likely go to whomever loses the Hossa sweepstakes. I'm all for bringing back Comrie and maybe even Tank for next season by assuring them before the trade that we'd welcome them back. However, trading 2 of those guys, including Vasicek, could STILL lead to a playoff berth for the Islanders.
I don't envy Snow's position right now, but I'm excited to see what he has up his sleeve.
Again, everone is obsessed with McCabe's contract. And while there might be some better D this July, do you think the Isles have a legitimate shot to land any of them. The Isles were spurned by the best of the best last July, and I don't see anything different happening this summer. The Isles have plenty of cap space and can afford McCabe. While you might think he is overpriced, it's not your money so you have nothing to worry about. I'd rather have McCabe in the lineup than empty cap space in the bank.
I have been against the McCabe deal from the start, but if we can get back there #1 pick, I would do it.
I really think getting McCabe and their #1 is possible......We DO NOT have to include our #1.....Toronto has NO CHOICE if McCabe will not go anywhere else. Now if he changes his tune that changes everything.
Like CM said.....Stay strong and wait them out Garth. Offer a player and our #2.
Another scenerio that just came to me like a vision in the night.......A team like Ottawa gives us their #1 for Satan.......We than trade THEIR #1 (which is bascially a low #2 since they will be a top seed) and a player to Toronto for McCabe and their #1.
That would give us TWO LOW # 1 picks and McCabe to start off next year......Now your talking boys....Now you can hear Jimmy!
What about this:
McCabe, Wellwood, & a 2nd Round Pick
for
Bates & Colliton
Salary Dump
What would we possible get from Dallas for Satan??
Garth Snow wouldn't dare to include Bates in any trade proposals--unless he wanted a give his fellow GMs a good chuckle.
What about:
LW - Jokinen
RW - Ott
D - Daley
2nd rd pick
for
RW - Satan
D - Berard
RW - Simon
Hahaha good one. Who knew BrianG was such a jokester...
If this team was healthy right now would everybody be salivating over McCabe?
Meyer (God, I hate to eat my words) has really stepped up. When the team is healthy that may even give them the dream (Cost effective) Top Six that would be the envy of the division.
Witt-Marty
Sutton-Meyer
Campoli-(Gervais, Berard, MAB, Johnson,Fata)
I admit that Sutton-McCabe, Campoli-Meyer with Campoli and McCabe on the PP is better, at what cost?
Getting TML's first rounder would make the "cost" easier to handle. If Hossa does keep his word and becomes a UFA, and let's the FREE MARKET determine where he goes, then I want the Isles to be in the mix... and we may be looking at a $10M/per contract.
That, along with the emergence of Bergy, Comeau, Nielsen and Okposo will make this team a contender next year. I honestly do not think that McCabe does that.
I don't think the Isles can bank on Hossa in that way...or any other UFA for that matter.
Regarding your statement: "If this team was healthy right now would everybody be salivating over McCabe?"
Well this team is not healthy right now. And if the Isles are serious about squeaking into the playoffs, they undoubtedly could use McCabe. He would also be a tremendous upgrade over Berard/MAB next season. So to answer your question, although not quite like a box of gum drops, the thought of a 60 pt blueliner who can handle himself defensively DOES have me salvating.
Forget Defense, people have to remember that we have guys coming off their injury's and about a week or so we should have at least witt back. What this team really needs is some scoring depth. I can see Garth moving Miro for good 30 goal scorer. The only person i feel that the islanders should get is Hossa. I would get rid of tambelini and 2 other forwards for this guy. Not to mention if we can get him sign him for some years. I heard that he does not want to stay in atl, and you never know. This guy produces 30 goals easy each season. This is what the islanders need, not defense!
Candy,
I certainly see your point, but like most USED CARS, the value is in the perception. If you took this deal to a mechanic who you trusted he would say, this is a nice car, but don't pay too much for it because the tranny is slipping... and you're not going to be able to afford that new boat you had your eye on for years.
All I'm saying is that any deal right now has the potential of being a HUGE factor in the team's future. I'd rather see them have a huge wallet full of cash when they go to the market in July.
I also have confidence in Snow right now to do the best he can for the organization. So we'll see what the team looks like on Wednesday and go from their.
McCabe and Toronto's #1 for Gervais sounds like a winner to me (if we have to I'd swap #1 picks as well). As Candyman said we got spurned by the top FA's last year and that will probably happen again so getting McCabe (even at $6 mill per) isn't terrible. Then we can trade away Satan + Tank for whatever we can get (possible first round picks and/or prospects) .... sign Comrie + Vasicek.
Next year we'd have Witt-Martinek-Mccabe-Sutton-Campoli-Meyer (nice group there) plus we get Sim back ... keep Comrie, Josef .... and maybe (if we're lucky) Toronto tanks and we get Stamkos!!! Or, at the very least, Beach. Then we can make a drive for the playoffs and have a strong core for the future ... sounds like a win-win.
One can only hope!!!
Blah.
McCabe + TML 1 RD Pick For Gervais... Toronto is drunk and bent over the car in the parking lot...
McCabe for Gervais and we swap first rounders... that's like giving them a reach around... and Garth ain't about the reach around... especially after EDMONTON bent him over the car last year.
With Sundin saying that he won't be on the first life boat that puts Toronot in a very desperate situation. Much like the Isles did for their new GM search, I'm sure they want to clear some room for him to work with. NOBODY is going to take Blake at the price they set for him, Sundin wants to be there for the rebirth (more like afterbirth), and McCabe has a short list of teams that he'll be go to. the Rangers can't afford him, NJ doesn't need him, and Philly will have to shuffle players to make room.
Now... I'd like to take Coburn so they can make room...
Grab your ankles mr. fletcher... and if it hurts, you can bite down on Blake's contract!!!!
Sorry for that last. The blog/server has been rejecting my posts since November b/c I apparently post too much. I think now that it is b/c the server doesn't recognize numbers from the number pad. Idunnogofigger.
My thoughts on the rumours.
First, LOL at the apparent aceptance of Meyer as a fixture on the team. Good for him for working his butt off since being reacquired to earn a place.
Second, IMO the biggest problem the Isles had last summer was that none of the juicy RFAs wanted to come to LI. Remember Smyth? Hunter has now reupped for 5 years at a reasonable salary. DP has committed long term. I think Snow needs to identify the players (Comrie, Tank, etc) who WANT to commit to a 3-4 year program and GET THEM SIGNED. Once a real core of legitimate players show they are prepared to commit to the area, then Snowy can forst the cake with a Hossa type player in the offseason.
Along that vein, I am now prepared to eat my words and say that I would like to see McCabe come back to the Island. I don't think anyone has heard me say a good word about him since he left (and darn few before that). However, if he wants to play in LI, and it would take quite an idiot to say he isn't a legitimate NHLer, if his salary is manageable (and it is), and if Snow can get some value for taking his salary off of Fletcher's hand, then I say he should do it. I think Fletcher would be foolish to give up his #1 pick, but you never know.
I'd like to see Comrie sign on long term at second line center money.
Does anyone know Sillinger's contract situation? I'd hate to see him get away b/c we weren't paying attention.
I'm one of those who thinks No Trade Clauses are the work of the Devil, but Satan has one and I don't think anyone can say he hasn't performed to the levels expected since he signed. He's earned the right to veto a trade and, frankly, I wouldn't mind having him on for a longer term if the price is right. If he is prepared to go, then Snow should find him a place on a contender (Vancouver needs some scoring rather desperately).
Is anyone mentions Okposo in a trade proposal, I will go absolutely postal on their posterior. No one will ever again build a contender in this league through free agent signings alone.
In the long run, IMO, the first thing that needs to be done is to establish a culture that says players WANT to play here. I don't want another season where we start off by labelling our top line the leftover line. And to do that, Snow needs to get players, like Hunter, DP and (maybe) McCabe, to commit long term.
Just My Opinion.
JP
"So we'll see what the team looks like on Wednesday and go from their."
My immediate fear is what the team will look like TOMORROW night. Arguably one of the biggest games of the year and certainly a must win. Depending on how things shape up tomorrow, (as traded players are "in transit"),we could see Jeremy Colliton centering the 1st line against Malkin and a returning Crosby.
Conceivably Satan. Tank and Comrie could be headed out of town awaiting Tanguay, Mccabe, Hossa, (HEY who knows?) and Crosby/Malkin et.al. are buying scorecards at the gate trying to figure who they're playing against.
Nova Scotia,
I think Satan would be more likely to go to San Jose.
I like all the trade talk; but I am going to hold off on putting my two cents in. What worries me as well as intrigues me is this.
If we end up selling off three players, regardless of who we get back they will not be available to play on Tuesday night against the Penguins. With that being said, could the Islanders have to call up Tambellini, Okposo and possibly one more Bridgeport guy to fill those roster spots until other players arrive for the next game? Just a thought off of the current topic. First glimpse of Okposo??? Intriguing :)
Also don't forget that Toronto is in an interim GM situation. Desperate times call for desperate measures and his arse will be out of there after the seasons over so he does not have to shoulder the moves he makes.
I think to get McCabe and a swap of 1st rounders, you would have to offer someone like Tamby along with Gervais. No way they pull that deal off just to clear some cap space without getting a bit more in return.
But, if the desperation really sets in, who knows...
I think the Isles have 2+ emerging stars and they need ice time. They may also have room for a "D" with McCabe's skills... look what he did when we visited... He had a picture of his wife and kids in the penalty box. McCabe can be something they need, he may also be the second coming of Yash the Hashmark.
I'd much rather see them make room for the kids in the next 36 hours. that means Satan Comrie and/or tank are expendable and Vasicek is signed.
that also trims some salary off the cap and should bring in some depth in wither picks or prospects.
If they do both, I'm okay with it because they will have some spending cash in July, and no question marks on D. they can go full throttle on a top line forward.
Bergy and Comeau should have top 6 minutes in the final 20 games.
Nielsen should see some time in there as well, and tambellini should be in the NHL(if for no other reason than to showcase him for an off season/draft day trade. And would it be that bad to see Okposo for an obligatory 9 game cameo.
That should be the priority, not obtaining an overpriced "D". But if that deal is too good for Snow to refuse, then pull the trigger, and start signing the guys who you want to be here for 3-5 years. I really think Vasicek should be one of those... They are going to have a second line ceneter in Nielsen, so nothing more than two years for comrie...
This team has too many second and third line players. they need at least ONE top line guy to make the players around him better.
Snow should not give anything of value up for McCabe - It should be a total salary dump for toronto or I wouldn't make the trade?
I'll stand pat for now in saying we need that scoring winger first, if we can't get that winger, then if we can still pull it off, get McCabe.
We need players who want to be, and play here.
If Fletcher cannot move any of his "No-trade clause" players, then you may as well get someone else in that office and relieve him now and let him enjoy his summer.
If McCabe is going to be traded, it will be down to the wire tomorrow.
Corey:
"What would we possible get from Dallas for Satan??"
Here are those players, i feel would benefit us:
Loui Eriksson LW/RW
Konstantin Pushkarev LW/RW
Maybe a draft pick
As Garth has said, cap space is a commodity and it has a value. We deserve a pick in return for giving Toronto cap space they foolishly wasted. fletcher has a tough decision. If he doesn't give the Isles a first round pick, he has less than a million in cap space to sign new free agents. If he does, he misses a player of the quality to build a franchise around.
Isles should listen to deals for Tank and Satan and go if the other team ponies up. Satan is worth two picks or a pick and a prospect, Tank a pick.
Isles should grab McCabe if Fletcher gives up the pick and should make a deal with CBJ for Peca as at least a rental to replace Silli for reasons outlined above in my earlier post.
Could there be a trade for Peca?? Since we need some help at center
Hey Bill,
This just off the trade rumor wire.
The New York City Alzheimer's Association is looking for someone to plug a hole in their organization and manage the Manhattan Legacy Building project called "I Remember When There Was Nuthin' Over There".
They have offered this blog's GM's (Steady and KH) a year's supply of Gingko Bilbao and Siberian Ginseng in exchange for your services.
BUT, apparently the offer is only good for 45 minutes, otherwise they said there is a good chance that they will fuhgettaboutit.
Are you willing to waive your no trade clause?
JP,
Again I go back to my earlier thought that money in the bank does this team no good. We had a boat load of money to spend last summer and it got us nowhere. I would jump at the opportunity to take on one of the best offensive-defenseman in the league, especially one who wants to play here. The Isles will have the cap space, so his contract should not be an issue.
Nova Scotia,
Silinger is signed through next season.
Corey, Bill,
I have been advocating for the signing of Peca as well. Little things like that can help generate interest in the Isles. If the Jackets want to unload him for say a 4th rounder, I would pull the trigger here.
From hockeybuzz..."I am hearing the Islanders and Leafs are talking about a deal that would send Fedotenko and a pick to NYI for McCabe. The Leafs want a #1."
Um does that make sense to anyone?
Candy,
Right now I just think Snow needs to take care of his business and let the fuller brush man ring three or four times.
If the team has Satan, Tank and Comrie on it Wednesday morning I'm disappointed. If they take on McCabe's salary without squeezing fletcher for every drop of value, again, I'll be disappointed.
This team has cash flow problems. They always have. they are also paying guys like Bates, yashin and Snow because of TERRIBLE DEALS. Their first priority needs to be prepared to take on a monsterous contract if what they really need becomes available... I'd talk to Hossa's agent and make him a HUGE offer to sign for 5 years/$55M and give ATL Satan, Tambellini and MAB to get him here NOW.
Then they can worry about McCanopener.
actually 5 years/38M looks more in line with the league at this point...
candy,
I most certainly doubt it... maybe Tank for Mcabe and a pick...2nd or 3rd rounder would make sense. No way he lets toronto slide on this one and even makes fletcher come out smelling like a rose. After they gave Second rate Blake 25 million reasons to leave long island... are you kidding!!!!
You have to be careful what you ask for... YOU JUST MIGHT GET IT!!!
Snow should wait for a bargain deal for McCabe or don't make any trades with Toronto? If he does make a trade for McCabe - he should try to get rid of Bates Contract
Again with Bates eh, maybe you weren't being facetious earlier. Don't bother mentioning Bates, his career is probably over. No team would ever accept his salary ESPECIALLY a team like the Leafs that is looking to dump salary.
Tick tock Garth...
Time for Snow to forget about signing Comrie to a multi year deal - Just trade Comrie - Satan - Fedotenko - Vasicek - Berard - Simon
for some prospects and Draft picks - this team is not winning a cup this year.
For the love of God, neither are 99.9% of the rest of the teams in the NHL going to win a cup.
All this draft pick talk is LOSER TALK! Those draft picks may turn out to be absolute busts. You want another 3-5 year re-building process that may or MAY NOT work ????
This team has a chance. Are we blessed with offense...No...Far from it............BUT, in the Eastern Division a hot goalie and a hungry team can go far. On the business end it will generate cash . Devils first round.......We can beat them easy!
Do I want picks .... Sure.....Do I want some dead wood off this team, definitely. BUT ENOUGH OF THE FIRE SALE JUNK !!!
***If we can get McCabe, DO IT !!! If we can get their first round pick....DO IT !!! IF a perfect trade comes along, DO IT !!! Otherwise, everyone stand behind the team.
We have a nice mixture of kids and vets right now. We have an ALL STAR goalie. We have our gritty WITT coming back.
Stand by the team!!!!
p.s The ORACLE has already had the vision. The book has been written. I already told you the outcome!
Steady,
Right off of CatholicBuzz.com.....
The Vatican has upped the ante for you......
St. Chris, St Nick, and the Greek Arm of the Orthodox church is throwing in Apollo.
Pope Bennie is desperate for an Assistant Captain for the Cardinals.
KEEP UP THE FIRE MY MAN,.
NO QUITTING ON THIS TEAM!!!!
I agree with that...there should be no quitting on this team.
HOWEVER, I also advocate trading Comrie or anyone else tendered a fair long-term contract offer that rejects it. I think it's fair to say that people who voice a willingness to stay yet reject contract offers should be shown the door...I'm not advocating an all-out firesale here, but given the dearth of vets available right now Garth is suddenly sitting on some valuable chips. We could get younger and better by the end of tomorrow.
Also, RUMOR....I'll call this one (n4)
Chris Simon will be traded to my office cafeteria for 2 Fig Newtons and the androgynous person who works the cash register.
Howard Berger from Toronto is reporting on Hockeybuzz that McCabe will likely invoke his NTC, and he forcefully re-iterated to reporters that he wants to stay. Maybe that ends this silly season?
And (n3) the Chris Simon deal is being held up because the Islanders want another Fig Newton but that is causing the cafeteria to ask for MAB.
Well according to reports, Tanguay will not be traded...oh well, it was a nice thought
TSN is reporting that the Calgary Flames are NOT trading Alex Tanguay. Hey Garth I hope you subscribe to Verizon (Can you hear me now!).
505 -- I'd be happy to waive my NTC and go to the Obama campaign if it meant we'd get a new Town of Hempstead Board that would speedily approve our new arena. However, I must admit I was surprised you didn't have me getting traded to the Catholic Church. After all, wasn't that the whole point of the Crusades, the Inquisition, etc. etc.? I've heard Bennie is a traditionalist. ;-))))