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HockeyBuzz's Next Five Top UFAs. Who has interest? |
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Welcome Back Hockeyworld!
Today we continue to celebrate independence by discussing the players set to become independent when this season ends.
#11 TJ Brodie
He has been the perfect compliment to Giordano and if he leaves Calgary it could be interesting how much effect this has on Gios game. He does everything well and is a top 4 guy. My question is whether or not he is better in the position of supporting a star D-man than if he gets a big payday and is asked to play a larger role. I believe if Hall doesn't land in Calgary they may keep Brodie. Other teams with interest... NY Islanders, Florida, Anaheim, Montreal, and Toronto (Brodie is left-handed, but strong at playing the right point)
#12 Corey Crawford.
The last of the big available goalies, but as Kevin Allen said on our podcast this week, "Crawford could turn into a great bargain for an experienced and accomplished goalie." I completely agree. Crawford's circumstance is fortuitous as well right now. If the Hawks thought they were in the playoffs they would not have moved Lehner. Now its Crawford's team again and he is facing Edmonton, a team he has performed well against in the past. He could raise is stake quite a bit...teams interested...I keep hearing San Jose has alot of interest.
#13 Tyson Barrie
Barrie's skating abilities are undeniable and while he did get better with the coaching change in Toronto he didn't find anything like a level of consistency. His defense was absolutely terrible in Toronto and he really has been alot of work for any coach to deal with. You want his offense but you have to hide him on defense.. He won't be back in Toronto, and alot will depend on his playoffs...I have heard Arizona, NJ, and Chicago have some interest. I like Chicago because I feel Barrie could learn a ton from Duncan Keith. Barrie has always reminded me of how Keith was early in his career.
#14 Mikael Granlund
Granlund has a ton of talent and at times has shown even more. The Preds made a mistake moving Fiala for Granlund, but Granlund did finally appear to be coming into his own in February with a goal spree, but then in March he disappeared again with no goals in is last 5 games and only six shots in 5 games...The Montreal Canadiens have the most interest as there is a feeling that Granlund would be more motivated playing alongside his fellow Finns.
#15. Erik Gustaffson
Gustafsson could turn out to be the steal of this UFA class. He has tremendous upside if he ever finds a high level of consistency... Calgary grabbed him out of Chicago for the playoffs and also I believe as a possible future replacement for Brodie. The Red Wings and Yzerman really like him I was told. Add Toronto, Montreal and Buffalo to the list...
What Say you?
Coming tomorrow...#16-#20
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