July 17, 2009
Dobber Sports
2009-07-17
The Kings have signed Jack Johnson. He’ll be a stud, but I don’t think it will happen this year or next. I am also worried about his fragility, but it’s still too soon to judge for sure.
The Wild have signed Wade Dubie. That’s a signal that Harding could be on the move at some point in the next two months. I think teams would be more interested in Harding than Biron.
Attention: In the “Other Features” section, I have seven sets of rules for starting a keeper league. These links are now all fixed and the rules are back up. Band-Aid Boys and Dobber’s Pics are also back up and fixed.
Cory Murphy has signed a two-way contract with the Devils. I predict six games played, 60 games injured and a dozen games in the minors.
Thoughts on Martin Biron: LA would be a good fit, but I think the Kings really like what they saw in Quick and Ersberg as a combo. Colorado would have been a good fit, but they went with the cheaper option in Anderson. It’s a buyer’s market for goaltenders right now and Biron – although he may be asking for a fair price – could be left out in the cold when the season starts. He may have to wait until the first starter goes down with an injury before getting a contract he wants.
I came up with the above based on a comment below the ramblings – so that gives me an idea. Because summer is so slow for news, I am more than happy to tackle a player or two every day. Just give my quick thoughts on him. And I’ll base it on your suggestions. If you are wondering about a player, just toss his name in the comments below the ramblings (not just today – any day this summer) and when I get a moment later in the day I will pick one or two and give my thoughts. That should help with the slow news period!
Atlanta re-signed Colby Armstrong to a contract. I think he should be good for 45 points this campaign.
The Avs have signed Matt Duchene to a contract. No surprise there. I think Duchene will make the team right away, but I wouldn’t look for much more than what you saw Kyle Turris do last year. Slightly more…but not a lot more.
The Sharks re-signed Ryan Vesce and they also signed UFA’s Danny Groulx, Joe Callahan, Dwight Helminen and Jed Ortmeyer for some depth. Ortmeyer is the only one who could be a regular.
Currently, Boston, Ottawa and Chicago sit over the salary cap according to Russo’s Rants – and San Jose is basically over it. The Hawks can get out of it for this year by dumping Sopel to the minors and sending Crawford or Niemi down…but it will be close. Bottom line – you’ll see some deals over the next two months.
Contrary to some strong rumors, Alex Tanguay is not signed by the Panthers.
Ryan Jones, Cal O’Rielly and Kelsey Wilson did not accept their qualifying offers. The former two are no-doubt looking for one-way deals. Watch for what O’Reilly signs – a one-way deal could make him a solid fantasy option.