Off Season Team Review

Here's my Off-season Team Reviews.

I used a similar format to previous seasons, listing each player at their position and how they rate as a group out of a possible 0-5 score. Team totals are simply the compilation of each positional score. It ain't pretty, or perfect, but it gives a snapshot of each teams needs and depth.

For the team pictures I decided to eschew official logos and look for alternatives. In the case of the Edge I went with their 'dragon' motif, and used a terrific picture of 'Tiamat' I found. In the case of the Ramapithecines I was forced to use Frank Frazetta's 'Neanderthals'. (Your welcome Corey). Apparently their aren't a lot of Ramapithecine images kicking around our culture at this point. In the case of the Scourge it turns out the team shares the name of a relatively minor Decepticon - so there you go.

All ratings are purely subjective, and for any of your complaints, please make sure they are written by hand, in triplicate, on Holly Hobby paper, with Orange crayon and sent by snail mail to somebody who cares. Just keep in mind that somebody isn't me.

(Note: the Franson/Brodeur omissions have been corrected)



The Severed Heads

LW: Heatley-Ott FP, Hartnell-Pha RFA, Ryan-Ana P4, Leino-Det P2, Dupuis-Pit P2

Rating: 4.5

Heatley has question marks against him this year, but has shown that even at his worst he's still a ppg player. For now, there is a 50% he stays in Ottawa and a 50% chance he is dealt to either San Jose (big upside) or the Rangers (still better than Ottawa). Last years numbers should be the bottom for Heatley, with a good chance he rebounds to his more typical 45-45-90 type totals. Hartnell had a career year going 30-30-60 with 120PIM giving him elite totals as a combo goon. Ryan is a ppg+ scoring fwd with size just starting to blossom and will be entrenched on the top line with Getzlaf and Perry to form a killer offensive trio. Leino will likely claim the ice-time and roster spot voided by Jiri Hudler's escape to the KHL, and should project to average 3rd line FUNHL numbers in the 50+ range. Dupuis was a horrible prospect draftee and is now clearly Bantha fodder.

C: Elias-NJ FP, Malkin-Pit RFA, Hall-OHL P2, Stoll-LA P2

Rating: 3.5

Elias's switch to pivot hurts his productivity, but he is still a marginal FP based on his stats. His age and injury prone nature are what really make his contract expendable. Malkin is the reigning Art Ross champion, Conn Smythe winner and is young enough that we haven't seen his best stats yet - he is also a mortal lock to be the next Severed Heads FP. Hall is likely the top pick in next years draft, and recently won the Memorial Cup and tournament MVP with the Windsor Spitfires. With Pavel Bure type speed and scoring skills he looks born to be an offensive gunner. Stoll is a borderline FUNHL player at best and will be cut to nobody's surprise or interest.

RW: Kessel-Bos P4, Skille-Chi P4

Rating: 2.5

Kessel is emerging as a scoring star for the Bruins, but with his contract up for renewal and a commensurate big pay day, he may not be a Bruin for much longer. Skille is a full pkg forward who recently posted ppg totals in the AHL. Has Bill Guerin like potential, but has been groomed slowly by the Chi-Hawks - a fourth line spot and RFA contract with the Heads is all but assured.

D: Kuba-Ott RFA, Leopold-Fla RFA, Sanguinetti-NYR P3, Karlsson-Ott P2, Murphy-NJ P2

Rating: 2.5

Kuba is a solid 40 point D-man who has few threats to displace him from the top unit of the Senators powerplay. Leopold never developed the offensive tools he flashed early on and has become more recognized for his solid defensive zone play than powerplay abilities. If he cracks 30 points somebody should call the Vatican. Sanguinetti has a shot at moving up the Rangers depth chart having completed his apprenticeship at the AHL where he was an offensive star on the blue-line. Karlsson is also a future powerplay star with oodles of offensive ability and is now clearly the Senators top prospect. His game is advanced enough that he is considered to be a strong Calder candidate. Murphy is a late bloomer who has bounced around the Panthers and Bolts organizations as a powerplay specialist. Now landing on the depleted blue-line in New Jersey he'll get a chance to prove himself once again as an offensive contributor.

G: Theodore-Wsh RFA

Rating: 1.5

Though his numbers for the year weren't atrocious, Theodore is simply no longer a starting caliber goaltender and looks to have permanently lost his job to the surging Simeyon Varlamov. Little chance he'll seize the job back from Varlamov or the other talented new comer, Mikael Neuwirth, and he appears destined for a mentor/back-up role from now on.

Total: 14.5



The Bladerunners

LW: Malone-TBay RFA, Pesonen-Pit P2, Filatov-Clb P2

Rating: 2

Malone is currently a legit third liner with upside as a combo/goon. If his PIM and points can improve back to his career highs as a Penguin while riding shotgun for Lecavalier he's a solid 2nd liner. Pesonen was one of the three dwarves from last years prospect draft (Leino and Brunnstrom being the others), as he was a slightly built Euro league scoring star making his way over to the NHL for a taste of the big time. Spent most of his year toiling in the AHL only getting a brief cup of coffee early on. He is of an advanced age for a prospect so he will need to prove he can play in the bigs on a scoring line ASAP or its likely back overseas for Janne. Filatov has all the skill of Nik Zherdev but none of the baggage. Appears destined to be a high end scoring threat with lethal speed and a rocket shot. Could be a Calder candidate this year.

C: Backstrom-Wsh P4, Giroux-Pha P3, Stamkos-TBay P3

Rating: 3

Backstrom is turning into an elite playmaking center with 100pt potential as OV's sidekick. Could be a future FP. Giroux's move to the pivot spot dampens the enthusiasm for him, but the smurf's offensive game could be excellent. Stamkos is the future in TBay, and is all but pencilled in as the #2 pivot behind Lecavalier. Both Giroux and Stamkos should clock in between 60-75 pts.

RW: Iginla-Cgy FP, Hossa-Chi FP

Rating: 4.5

Hard to improve on a wing that has two potential 40 goal scorers on it. Iggy lacks the linemates he had last year to boost his assist totals, but will have Jokinen for a full year to develop chemistry with. Hossa was the big aquisition in Chicago's offseason and signed a monster contract that he will need to live up to.

D: Whitney,Ryan-Ana RFA, Gilbert-Edm RFA, Goligoski-Pit RFA, Ballard-Fla RFA, O'Brien-Vcr RFA, Franson-Nsh P3, Kindl-Det P2

Rating: 3

Whitney is a potential 50pt defenseman if he can rebound from his injury troubles with his new team. Without the potent Pittsburgh offense around him he may be more likely in the 40+ range. Gilbert is still blooming into an offensive rearguard, but its not clear what his ceiling is yet. A slick puckmover he has the tools to be excellent, but must grind it out for the Oilers rather than a more offensively supporting club. In contrast Goligoski will be the beneficiary of the Pittsburgh offensive blitz and if he can hold his own down in the defensive zone he may become a reliable top 4 guy for the Penguins. Ballard has bounced from bad team to bad team, and is now plying his trade in the forgettable Panther market. His PIM may elevate him into dressable status. O'Brien is now part of a deep Canuck blueline, one that may limit his offensive and PIM totals. Swiftly sinking into depth player status. Franson is another in a long line of big body defenders with heavy point shots populating the Nashville farm system. Lots of guys ahead of him on the depth chart, but he has the tools to be another Weber if he puts it all together. Kindl is one of the long suffering prospects in the Red Wings system that has to wait for someone to die to get ice-time. There are spots open at the bottom end of the Wing roster and Kindl may claim one, but he is unlikely to be reliable offensively for a few more years.

G: Miller-Buf RFA

Rating: 3

Miller has solid starter credentials - when he is healthy. Unfortunately, the Sabers best player routinely catches the injury bus every year to diminish what would otherwise be very reasonable stats. Entering his prime, he could break out if the Buffalo defense improves (unlikely) or if he can stay healthy for a full season and post a record number of starts.

Total: 15.5


The Great Whites

LW: Vanek-Buf RFA, Michalek-SJ RFA, Comeau-NYI P2

Rating: 3

Vanek is a legit top end sniper with hands capable of scoring 50 or more if things go well for him. Last season was derailed by injuries, so the caution light is on for him ever hitting his full potential. Michalek is a more play maker than scorer, preferring to dominate the half-wall rather than drive the net. His ceiling is likely in the 70 point range. Blake Comeau has the all-round game that will get him to the NHL (43 pts in 61 AHL games) but lacks a high ceiling offensively as he possesses only average speed. Looks like NHL third line material, and fringe FUNHL player at best.

C: Staal,E-Car FP, Richards,B-Dal FP, Esposito-Atl P4, Staal,J-Pit P4, Stastny-Col P4, Tavares-NYI P3, Couture-SJ P2

Rating: 4

Eric Staal is still the best of the brothers, and is capable of ppg+ seasons as an elite offensive pivot. Brad Richards has faltered from his once lofty status, and appears to be a sub ppg center moving forward, and is an excellent candidate to be cut. Esposito may never be the #1 center he was projected to be as a precocious 15-16 year old, but his speed and hands should help him carve a career out running a 2nd line in the NHL. Jordan Staal possesses many of the gifts his older brother does, but has less offensive upside, and demonstrably greater defensive abilities. Should be a Selke candidate power-pivot in the Bobby Holik mold - which ain't bad, but it ain't Eric Staal part 2. Stastny is the real gem in the group, as he has ppg+ ability and is poised to assume control of the Avalanche as their best player and Sakic heir apparent - future FP. Tavares is most the hyped prospect since Sidney Crosby, but his faults are also now well known. Can his skating launch him to elite status in the NHL? Not this year, but he bears watching as a Brett Hull like goalscorer with mediocre speed. Couture is a finesse pivot being groomed for one of the top lines in San Jose. Is on the slow path however, so is still a few years away.

RW: Svatos-Col RFA, Boll-Clb RFA

Rating: 1.5

Svatos has the tools of a sniper, but never seems capable of locking down his role on a top line. Frustrating would be one way to describe his production, but he remains a possible 3rd liner in the FUNHL. Boll is big and can goon it up. If he's not doing that, he's useless. Even as a goon, his offense is so limited as to make him an unlikely contributor except in spot duty.

D: Edler-Vcr RFA, Alzner-Wsh P3, Bogosian-Atl P2, Doughty-LA P2

RAting: 2.5

Edler is rounding into form as a potential #1 defenseman, capable of playing big minutes, running the powerplay and killing penalties. Is a smooth skater still tapping his considerable upside. Alzner is likely going to be concentrating on the defensive side of the puck as his offensive gifts are not exceptional, but his skating and size are. Washington has enough run and gunners and don't need him to be one. Bogosian is a massive talent and could eventually put together Chris Pronger type of stats. Is already Atlanta's most complete defender as a sophmore and responsibilities will be gradually increased. Despite the talent already mentioned, Doughty is potentially the best of the GW defense prospects. He has Bourque like composure at both ends of the rink, and he has already displaced other LA prospects on their depth chart to earn a regular role. His offensive game could be exceptional, and he should make the GW roster from the start of the year.

G: Carey-Mtl P3

Rating: 2

Once considered Brodeur's heir apparent, he is now a huge question mark after flaming out last year. The talent is their, but will playing in the Montreal fishbowl burn him out the way it did Jose Theodore? Not draftable for his numbers as it stands, he is questionable even as a backup.

Total: 13



The Ramapithecines

LW: None

Rating: 0

C: Tkachuk-StL RFA, Pavelski-SJ RFA, Connolly-Buf RFA, Brassard-Clb P4, Hensick-Col P3, Turris-Phx P3

Rating: 2.5

Keith 'Buffet table' Tkachuk is no longer the elite power forward he once was, and now tops out around 60 points, and around 90 PIM. Pavelski in contrast is a player on the rise and could seize the 2nd line job in SJ permanently. So far, his numbers are just below draftable, but a slight uptick could make him valuable. Connolly has all the skill to be a #1 center, but is never, ever, ever healthy for a full season - he makes Mikael Nylander and Martin Straka look like ironmen. Brassard will in all likelihood have draftable numbers this year, and start for the knuckledraggers 4th line, with the expectation he could move up quickly. Hensick has made the AV's based on his talent, but will need to compete with up and comer Duchene, fellow prospect Ryan Stoa and a converted back to center Wolski for ice-time behind Paul Stastny. Turris has a high end skill set well suited to being an offensive center, but has been delayed from reaching his potential by the crappy developmental system of the Coyotes. One day he may well emerge from the 9th circle of hell as an offensive force.

RW: Perry-Ana RFA, Brown-LA RFA, Afinogenov-??? RFA, Pominville-Buf P4, Mathias-Fla P2, Williams, Justin-LA P2

Rating: 4

Perry is a true top line winger with a full arsenal of offensive shots. He is also something of a dink - and will rack up PIM to make him a legit goon option. Biggest risk for Perry isn't injury but suspension. Brown is middleweight powerforward in the mold of a young Ryan Smyth. Nobody knows what the deal is with Afinogenov as he has the million dollar skating stride and a 10 cent head - likely bound for the KHL. Pominville is a solid 2nd or 3rd liner. If his offensive retuns to previous heights he could flirt with being a solid #1. Mathias has been something of a bust so far as more was expected of him last year than was delivered by the strapping forward. Still lots of time for him to mature into form. Justin Williams is a plug-N-play winger/center who can fill in on any line. Sadly, he is a big injury risk and can't be counted on for productivity other than in short bursts.

D: Chara-Bos FP, Spacek-Mtl RFA, VanRyn-Tor RFA, Johnson,E-StL P4, Johnson,J-LA P4, Russel-Clb P3

Rating: 3.5

Chara is simply a beast, posting 50+ pts and excellent PIM. Spacek is running out the clock on his career with an encore in Montreal. VanRyn has been hit hard by injuries the last five years and seems to have stalled out in the 30 pt range even when healthy. Erik Johnson lost last year to a freak golf car accident but should be ready to assume his status as the next big thing, a break out year is likely. Jack Johnson has pissed off every team he's played for (and some he never did, see Carolina), but has all-world talent. Was leapfrogged on the depth chart by Drew Doughty and has much to prove. Russel is developing nicely for Columbus and could have a Kris Letang like impact on the Bluejackets.

G: Turco-Dal FP

Rating: 2.5

Turco had a disastrous season for Dallas and posted career lows in just about every category imaginable. Had to describe how wretched his season was. With Zubov now in the KHL he'll also be missing his top defenseman and puck clearer. Could be another long year fishing black disks from the cave-dwellers net.

Total: 12.5




The Highlanders

LW: None

Rating: 0

C: Crosby-Pit FP, Mueller-Phx P4, Gagner-Edm P3

Rating: 4

Crosby won't score 50 goals, but he is a relentless dynamo that could well lead the league in scoring. Mueller is the prototype big body pivot with wheels, hands and a high upside. He is however, trapped in the 9th circle of Hell that is Phoenix. Gagner is a slick Vincent Damphousse type of pivot, gradually coming into his own. Draftable numbers are predictable, but not sure enough to guarantee him a roster spot.

RW: Radulov-Nsh P4, Caputi-Pit P2, Purcell-LA P2

Rating: 1.5

Radulov is a first line talent toiling in the KHL, and his contract is now up. Caputi is a big body powerforward type, who will score most of his points from within two feet of the crease. If he can stick with either Crosby or Malkin the upside is apparent, otherwise, his slow foot speed may see him better suited for a checking line. Purcell is a high end talent, but is having a hard time cracking the Kings lineup, and has been passed by better all-round prospects in the organization.

D: Green-Wsh P4

Rating: 2.5

Best offensive defenseman in the league, he scores like a high-end forward, and still hasn't hit his ceiling. The Paul Coffey comparisons are not overblown.

G: Brodeur-NJ FP, Bernier-LA P3

Rating: 3.5

Brodeur isn't the unstoppable force he was earlier in his career, and his team has been bleeding blueliners to retirement and free agent signings, but he still manages to put up top 5 season after top 5 seasons. Could be extra motivated by the possibility of starting in another Olympics and holding off the challenge of Luongo in his prime. Bernier isn't expected to take over the full-time starter duties in LA this year, but he is still the teams goaltender of the future despite the Kings decision to play Ersberg and Quick ahead of him.

Total: 11.5



The Edge

LW: Ovechkin-Wsh FP, Smyth-LA RFA, Maclean-Phx P2, Boyd-Cgy P4

Rating: 4.5

Ovechkin is arguably the best player on the planet, and contributes virtually all of the wings rating, he's the centerpiece of the Edge organization. Smyth is a capable warrior with an upside in the 60s, but breaks down too often from all the hard miles on his chassis. Maclean is the third rated prospect in the Phoenix farm system, lead the OHL in goal scoring (61) and finished third in overall points (119). A weak skating stride is the only major concern for him being a full-time NHL winger. Boyd has been sheltered in his limited ice-time, but should see his confidence and productivity soar under a new coach. Remains to be seen if the hyper talented youngster can make the squad in a scoring line, but he's definitely NHL caliber, unfortunately, his contract time is almost up.

C: Thornton-SJ FP, Kontiola-Ana P2

Rating: 3.5

Thornton is a threat to win the scoring title every year because of his playmaking abilities, and should be motivated to prove he is one of the NHL elite. Kontiola is only the ninth best prospect in the Anaheim system and may be a long shot to make the team in his contract tenure.

RW: Havlat-Min RFA

Rating: 2.5

A solid first liner, the biggest issue with Havlat isn't talent - which he has in spades, but fragility - which he also has in spades. He is coming off his healthiest year ever, and needs to make it two in a row.

D: Eminger-Fla RFA, Bergeron, MA-Min RFA, Aucoin-Phx RFA, Oduya-NJ RFA, Salcido-Ana P2

Rating: 2

Eminger has turned out to be a dreaded 'tweener' on the blueline, he's got enough offense to forge a career, but not enough size or defense to keep his spot. As such, he's bounced around the league and should probably keep his suitcase packed. Bergeron is a powerplay specialist - which is a good thing and a bad thing. Its good in that he will see PP time, but bad in that he will rarely be trusted on the ice in any other situation. Aucoin is playing out the string in Phoenix where his big point shot is about the only skill that hasn't vanished utterly. Oduya was a pleasant surprise for the Devils and has secured himself a top four spot. Improved totals are a distinct possibility as he will be counted on more this year. Salcido has fallen off the prospect map in Anaheim, but remains a legit contender to reach the NHL - but expectations have to be kept to a minimum.

G: Pogge-Ana P4

Rating: 1

Much more was expected of Pogge by this stage of his development and it is hoped that a trade to a new organization will give him a new opportunity to succeed. However, with no fewer than two established goaltenders ahead of him as well as a prospect in Modig considered to have better potential, Pogge's shot for the backup role on the Edge is likely gone. Strong possiblity he could re-enter the prospect draft for another go-around.

Total: 13.5


The Lost Boys

LW: Kovalchuk-Atl FP

Rating: 3.5

Kovalchuk in a bad year is still a 35+g, 70+ pts weapon. Motivated, and with a talented linemate, he could threaten 60+g, 100+ pts. The best bet for someone other than Ovechkin to win the Richard.

C: Koivu,M-Min RFA, Zajac-NJ RFA, Vermette-Clb P4, Bailey-NYI P2

Rating: 3

Koivu-the-younger has all the tools to be a Mats Sundin type of pivotl, but has been slowed by developing in a system that requires him to reign in any offensive instinct he has - until now. Wild mgt has insisted that the kid gloves are coming off and Koivu should be the primary beneficiary, expect career highs. Zajac formed some chemistry with Parise last year, but may have to fight to keep his spot. Vermette is a speed pivot with limited instincts for offense, but he'll get a good chance to prove he's worthy of being an offensive center rather than checker. Bailey is the future, a two-way pivot with high-end skills, and a team that requires him to be a key player moving forward.

RW: Nash-Clb FP, Ruutu-Car RFA, Boedker-Phx P2

Rating: 4

Nash is the flawed mirror image of Kovalchuk, a blend of high end skill, speed, size and offensive ability. All he does is score highlight reel goals. Ruutu is an underated mix of nasty and scoring punch. His biggest issue is staying out of the infirmary, where he seems to have his wing dedicated to him. Boedker is a swift footed burner who made the Coyotes right out of Jr, one who bears an uncanny resemblance to Alex Mogilny. May be a year away from full time FUNHL duty, but his time will eventually come.

D:Blake-SJ RFA, Kubina-Atl RFA, Rivet-Buf RFA, Hamhuis-Nsh RFA, Hamrlik-Mtl RFA, Harrold-LA RFA, Ranger-TBay RFA, Lee-Ott P4, Vishnevsky-Dal P4, Wishart-TBay P4

Rating: 3.5

Blake is on his last legs, but has a good chance of putting up points on his way out. Kubina gets a fresh start in Atlanta, and may have something to prove. Rivet is Bantha fodder. Hamhuis is a solid two way rearguard who will make a nice second or third pair d-man. Hamrlik has seen better days. Harrold is unproven but could surprise. Ranger had a solid season a year ago, but several newcomers (Ohlund, Hedman) will compete for his powerplay time. As a unit there is a lot of middle tier defenders but not much at the top end.

G: Rask-Bos P4

Rating: 1

Rask may be the goalie of the future in Boston, but right now the present is Tim Thomas, and Rask is unlikely to play enough minutes (barring injury) to make any kind of difference in the time left his contract affords.

Total: 15



The Personal Vendetta

LW: Sterling-Atl P2

Rating: .5

Sterling at 24 is 5'9" and a 165 soaking wet. He was a prolific offensive producer at college and in the AHL, but has been unable to keep pace at the NHL. A 5th rnd NHL pick, he's bucked long odds to even get this far, but appears to have an AHL or overseas career ahead of him. Is now a fringe prospect at best.

C: Zetterberg-Det FP, Brule-Edm P2

Rating: 2.5

Zetterberg has developed into one of the leagues top 2 way performers capable of putting up excellent offense while shadowing the elite. Brule bombed out in Columbus and is now a longshot to make the Oilers as an energy line player. Classic tweener was dominant in junior, but totally unable to translate his game at the big league level.

RW: Downie-TBay P3

Rating: 1.5

Downie is the second coming of Ken Linesman. A gritty/dirty forward with better than average offense. Should crack a checking line this year or next and work his way up from there.

D: Lidstrom-Det FP, Suter-Nsh RFA, Martin-NJ RFA, Erhoff-Vcr RFA, Staal,M-NYR P4

Rating: 3

Lidstrom is still one of the NHL elite, but his game noticeably slipped a notch last year, and he is now pushing his way towards 40, and could slip another. That said, Lidstrom has worked his way into the conversation for best defenseman ever, so you can't count him out. Suter is a serviceable mid range defenseman who doesn't belong in your top 2, but can comfortably be a part of your second pair. Ditto Martin. Erhoff's arrival in Vancouver is interesting as Erhoff has more than average offensive talent, and will now get an opportunity to show it off. Staal is already a very good defensive defenseman, but has yet to demonstrate he has powerplay QB skills.

G: Bryzgalov-Phx RFA, Harding-Min P4

Rating: 2

Bryzgalov is in Phoenix where goaltenders (and apparently teams) go to die. Harding has the talent to be a #1, but finds himself stuck behind Nik Backstrom for minutes. Would be well served with a trade.

Total = 9.5

a
The Knights Templar

L: Tanguay-TBay FP, Lucic-Bos RFA, Franzen-Det RFA

Rating: 3

Tanguay suffered through a miserable season in Montreal, but has landed on his feet with the Lightning. He'll be used in lots of offensive situations, could occasionally draw Big Vinny as his center, and at worst will play with offensive wiz-kid Stamkos on the 2nd line. Look for a rebound close to a ppg or better. Lucic is a beast, and if he can show any kind of goalscorer touch the Neely comparisons won't ever stop. That said, he's never possessed scoring ability at any other level, so it may be a bit much to ask. Franzen flashes all-world power-forward abilities, but can also go long stretches without productivity. Will have to prove he can earn his long term mega-contract.

C: Kopitar-LA RFA, Horcoff-Edm RFA, Hanzal-Phx P3

Rating: 2.5

Kopitar looks ready to take the next step up to being an unstoppable offensive force. If the big Slovenian breaks out he could score well over a ppg. Even if he doesn't, he's a legit 2nd liner based on his stats so far. Horcoff is constantly miscast by Edm coaches as a #1 center, and would be better served doing less heavy lifting as a #2. He's likely already peaked offensively and the results are a career best 70+ pts a couple years back - which he is unlikely to duplicate. Hanzal has a big body, skates well and possesses some offensive talent, but is likely to be a career third liner ala RJ Umberger and Martin Handzus.

R: Hejduk-Col FP. Little-Atl P3, Kane-Chi P3, Setoguchi-SJ P3

Rating: 3.5

Hejduk is now all but useless as an FP, and it is an open question as to whether the KT would be better served replacing him, either with someone new at the draft, or with Pat 'Twenty Cents' Kane from their farm system. In any case, he is now a drag on the roster. Little had a nice breakout year and is a solid promotable prospect for the 2nd line. Kane is the niftiest player in Chicago since Denis Savard, and has his future status as an FP all but stamped for him. So long as he takes limos from now on, it should all be gravy for him. Setoguchi flourished in a scoring line role in San Jose, and should build on his success. He has terrific wheels and finishing ability, but may be trade bait, and there is a concern he could be pulled from Thornton's wing at any time.

D: Weber-Nsh RFA, Carle-Pha RFA, Girardi-NYR RFA, Sekera-Buf RFA, Shattenkirk-Col P3, Pieterangelo-StL P2

Rating: 3

Weber is an all-purpose beast, and early on last year was garnering attention as a Norris candidate. A clear #1 defender he has an outside shot to be an FP replacement for the ever sucking Hejduk. Carle bounced around a bit the last few years (SJ/TBay/Pha) but seems to have found a home. He's got offensive ability but is unreliable in his own zone and can see intermittent ice-time as a result. Girardi is a nice two-way defender in the Rangers corps who can man the powerplay. He's a decent top 4 defensmen, but would be excellent as a 5-6 man. Sekera will get a chance to prove he can be a powerplay QB and with the dearth of puckmovers in Buffalo his stats should improve. Shattenkirk is the Av's best prospect, but a full rookie season is necessary to see whether the slightly undersized rearguard will prosper or flounder. Pieterangelo is a fast skating refrigerator sized D-man and should form a potent partner for the similarly talented Erik Johnson on the Blues.

G: none.

Rating: 0

Total = 12


The Wolves

LW: Kozlov-Atl RFA, McDonald-StL RFA, Umberger-Clb RFA, Frolik-Fla P4, Hudler-KHL P3, Bowman-Car P2, Svensson-Paajarvi-Edm P2

Rating: 2

Despite the volume of players available there isn't a lot of top-end talent. Kozlov is aging rapidly and is on the downside of his career. He'd make a nice #3. McDonald could rebound to be a great 2nd liner, but has a big injury risk asterisk next to his name. Umberger is a linebacker on skates but despite some decent offensive ability is unlikely to land on a scoring line with Brassard taking over his spot on the #2 line. Frolik should make the jump on to the active roster, but isn't a lock to produce and is based more on reasonable projection. Hudler would have been a logical fit but is going to play overseas for big coin and will be missed. Bowman and MSP are both likely a year or more away from productive stats.

C: O'Sullivan-Edm RFA, Toews-Chi P4, Backlund-Cgy P2, Berglund-StL P2, Hodgson-Vcr P2, Schenn, B-LA P2

Rating: 2.5

O'Sullivan should land on a scoring line but Edmonton's wingers aren't great, and O'Sullivan is running out of kicks at the can to be an above average offensive producer. Toews is a stud, and could end up the teams best pivot regardless of who else the Wolves draft. Backlund has wicked talent, but is still at least a year away from cracking a top line in Calgary. Berglund has the full tool-box of; size, wingspan, shot and skating ability and could well end up as a productive pivot. That said, he tailed off badly after a hot start last year, so endurance and conditioning are suspect. Hodgson is a true Calder candidate, but its premature to expect him to post dressable numbers this season. Schenn is as rock solid as his brother but with lots more offense, and could develop into a Mike Richards type - best bet is that he is at least a year or more away from threatening for a lineup spot.

R: Gaborik-NYR FP, Antropov-Atl RFA, Holmstrom-Det RFA, Ericksson-Dal P4, Wheeler-Bos P2

Rating: 4.0

If Gaborik can manage to stay healthy (a big 'if') this rating goes higher, but as it is Gaborik should be an elite force the Wolves who will need all the offense from him they can get. Could be trade bait though, as Gaborik lacks the consistency to be an elite FP. Antropov will not likely produce enough to be anything other than a 4th liner. Holmstrom has battled nagging injuries for two years running, but if he's healthy he'll lock down the 3rd line. Ericksson blossomed into a legit 30 goal scorer last year and is a mortal lock to be the teams 2nd liner barring the drafting of a superior talent. Wheeler had a terrific first half of the season before hitting a wall. A full-season from him on a scoring line would give the Wolves a monster winger with scoring touch. They can easily wait on him to see if it happens.

D: Pronger-Pha FP, Phaneuf-Cgy RFA, Seabrook-Chi RFA, Ohlund-TBay RFA, Salo-Vcr RFA, Hedman-TBay P2

Rating: 4

Pronger is the prototype d-man, big, nasty, skilled, powerplay QB, and minute muncher. Phaneuf is similar but lacks the overwhelming size Pronger brings to the table. Together they form a devastating 1-2 punch. The only question is whether the team wouldn't be better served moving Pronger on and bringing in Phaneuf as his FP replacement. As a short term strategy it makes sense to keep Pronger, but he is already 35, and the long term strategy of building around the much younger Phaneuf would seem to be ideal. Seabrook is just arriving as an elite defenseman, and while his offense last year was good, his +/- stats were awesome. Ohlund and Salo are excellent depth defenders who can chip in respectable offense. Hedman gives the team a home run threat coming down the pipe, and is a likely Calder candidate based on the fact he's already dominated a league playing against men.

G: Fleury-Pit RFA

Rating: 3.5

Fleury's regular season stats were nothing to get excited about, especially as the team in front of him played some terrible hockey early on, and leaves him hung out to dry even when they are playing well. Still, his playoff performance leads one to think he should be at least average as a starter in the FUNHL.

Total = 16


The Scourge

L: Tlusty-Tor P3, van Riemsdyk-Pha P3

Rating: 1.5

Tlusty could well end up on a scoring line in Toronto, or he could spend another year in the AHL, or he could be traded, or he could be injured, or he could be naked on the internet again. van Riemsdyk was taken 2nd overall behind Pat Kane, but has yet to play meaningful minutes. Trade rumours surround him in Philly, but he has the frame and goalscoring abilities teams crave, and could be this year's Bobby Ryan.

C: Spezza-Ott FP, Carter-Pha RFA, Bergeron-Bos RFA, Pouliot-Min P4, Winchester-Ott P2

Rating: 4.5

Spezza should bounce back to well over a ppg - especially if the team stops screwing around with his best line-mate. Carter and Bergeron are elite players for slots 2-3, and give the Scourge a powerful 1-2-3 punch down the middle. Only concerns are with Bergeron's health - which frankly should be a large concern given his concussion issues. Pouliot can fill the 4th line role so long as nothing is expected of him. Winchester will be a long shot to make the AHL all-star team.

RW: Brunnstrom-Dal P2, Perron-StL P2, Hornqvist-Nsh P2

Rating: 2.5

Brunnstrom started with a bang (hat-trick his first game) but quickly faded out of the picture in Dallas, never living up to the hype he had in the offseason. He should do better this year, but unless he lands on a scoring line his impact will be minimal. Perron is a Martin St Louis clone with great hands and wheels. Is further along in his development than Brunnstrom and should play a meaningful role in the Blues offense this year. Hornqvist is a big body goal scorer with limited foot speed. If his skating is improved he could fill the hole on the Preds 2nd line. Don't count on it though.

D: Hainsey-Clb RFA, Robidas-Dal RFA, Barker-Chi RFA. Hickey-LA P2

Rating: 2.5

Hainsey is a low-grade powerplay quarterback with defensive deficiencies. He's also the best offensive option in Columbus till Bogosian takes over. Robidas is a nice all-round defender but lacks offensive punch and is best suited to the bottom four. Barker is the prize, as he could easily explode and produce top end offensive numbers for Chicago - lord knows we've waited long enough for that to happen. Hickey is still a project, but an intriguing one. He's gifted offensively but is of slight build, and may need added muscle and experience. Probably still a year or more away, but he should be a keeper.

G: Lundqvist-NYR FP, Valiquette-NYR RFA

Rating: 4.5

Lundqvist is one of the elite netminders in the game and is easily the Rangers best player. The only concern is Lundqvist has had some nagging injuries the last two seasons. Valiquette will be turfed as he is no longer in the Rangers plans.

Total = 15.5


The Shadowmen

L: None

Rating: 0

Sure looks like one of the key draft areas for the Shadowmen will be at Left wing.

C: Sundin-UFA RFA, Koivu,S-Ana RFA

Rating: 1.5

Sundin hasn't decided if he is even going to play yet, but if healthy and motivated might be a very good 3rd liner with 2nd line upside. Saku the Elder has talent to burn and will get ice-time with fellow aging Finn Selanne, but can't be counted on to stay healthy for more than 50 games.

RW: St Louis-TBay FP, Knuble-Wsh RFA, Burrows-Vcr RFA, Okposo-NYI P4, Oshie-StL P3

Rating: 4.5

St Louis is still an elite RW despite advancing age, he's playing out the string as an FP, but should be a well above average top level scorer for his position. Knuble has a lot of miles on him, but his linemates should be excellent for at least one more season of goalscoring stats. Burrows is a great agitator/scorer combo and in most circumstances would slot comfortably into the 2nd line role. Okposo has all the tools to threaten for a spot beneath St Louis on the active roster, but he will likely start the season as the teams 4th liner until he shows his offense off. Oshie is equally a threat to move someone off one of the playing lines, but he has another year of eligibility on him so the urgency to give him a shot isn't there unless he really lights it up. This position is clearly one of the Shadowmen's two pillars of strength.

D: Yandle-Phx RFA, Tyutin-Clb RFA

Rating: 1

Yandle has yet to have a breakout season with dressable stats, though he would be in the mix for most teams bottom pairing. Tyutin has a better track record, but is still most likely a bottom four defenseman. Neither would be worthy of a match if taken earlier than expected.

G: Luongo-Vcr FP, Vokoun-Fla RFA

Rating: 5

Arguably the world's best goaltender, and a backup who is arguably a starting caliber netminder in his own right. Doesn't get more rock solid.

Total = 12