At this point of the off-season, it is very likely to look at the players the CBJ have under contract and assume that the roster is set. I heartily disagree! This is the perfect time for Scott Howson to do the NHL version of discount shopping and bring in some additional talent to compete for roster spots for this season.
Some key areas that could use some depth for the season going forward are:
- Right Wing- With Rick Nash most likely returning to left wing, right wing is looking a little thin on scoring depth. If Jakub Voracek can continue his growth as a scorer from the second half of last season, this might not be as pressing a need. Possible free-agent candidates are: Miroslav Satan, Michael Ryan (sorry, no Bobby), Marek Svatos, Jason Williams (don’t hold your breath) and Owen Nolan (highly doubtful).
- Center- What sets this season apart from most of the previous 10 is that fact that IF Derick Brassard can recapture his rookie year form, the CBJ will have the strongest depth at center in its history. R.J. Umberger, Antoine Vermette and Sammi Pahlsson are all talented as well. Whats missing in this group is the kind of physical, gritty center that can battle physically along the boards, in the corners and slot. Ironicly, the Jackets have had a good pedigree of this type of player; memories of Manny Malhotra or Alex Svitov easily come to mind. That we lack one now is an oversight management may want to correct. Some free agent candidates: Wayne Primeau, Adam Mair, Stephane Yelle are the best of a thin position in free agency.
- Defense- The beginning of the youth movement with Grant Clitsome, Mark Methot, Kris Russell and maybe John Moore forming a young core of promising defensemen. Leadership is a concern as Rusty Klesla is consistently injured, Mike Commodore displayed work ethic and athletic issues last season, and Jan Hejda is competent but quiet. While rumors have circulated all summer that GM Scott Howson is seeking to bolster the depth of the blue line, no deals have been made for Kevin Bieksa, Sheldon Souray or Tomas Kaberle. Possible free agent options are: Paul Mara, Brenden Witt, or Marc-Andre Bergeron.
Needless to say, its all speculation at this point, but with camp opening in just a few days the time to improve the roster for this season is running out.
Original Story:
http://firethatcannon.com/2010/08/31/...
