Right, but I can’t see anyone else going that far (I’m fully aware that this is simply my incredulity). This stinks of Seabrooks’ contract.
- Chunk

It'll only be like Seabrook's deal if Karlsson declines within 2 years of signing it, which seems unlikely. Seabrook is 5 years older, at the time of signing he had played a couple hundred more games (including 45 in the playoffs) the Karlsson has rn, and Seabrook played a heavy style that tends to wear plays down more than Karlsson. Last season was the first time Karlsson has had any injury issues, but he's not the type of d-man whose style will be too injury inducing in general.

I wouldn't want to the Hawks to sign Karlsson to that deal, but I can understand why a team with some cap space and who really think their window is in the next 3-5 years. They're willing to eat the back end of the contract years at that one chance for the cup. The same way the Hawks were willing to potentially eat Hossa's cap hit into his late 30s for a chance of the cup in 2010 and again in 2013 when they decided not to use a compliance buyout on Hossa.

I mean, if Jones had just been at least an average goalie, it's likely the Sharks make it past the Blues and to the final.

Yeah. Don't see how he can do both - quickly anyway.

Can certainly sign ADB/Strome - issue will be what the market + their performance next year might entitle them to. My thinking now is they will be fortunate to lock them both up for under $15MM AAV combined. Doesn't leave a lot of room - at these prices - to add much in the way of FA mid-level, let alone upper end talent.
- Return of the Roar

Just a question, but is Strome really worth that much yet? He needs to follow up his solid half season with more of the same before I'd open the vault and hand him big cash.

Just a question, but is Strome really worth that much yet? He needs to follow up his solid half season with more of the same before I'd open the vault and hand him big cash.
- breadbag

Agreed. You wait no matter what to sign both Strome and ADB.

I am betting he will continue his upward trajectory. If he does, how can a likely legit 2C get less than $7MM these days? Or more to the point, next year when prices go up again.

Just a question, but is Strome really worth that much yet? He needs to follow up his solid half season with more of the same before I'd open the vault and hand him big cash.
- breadbag

As usual, the vault gets opened by other GMs signing similar players to big deals - and the market value of a player with Strome’s history gets driven up. Stan May have little choice.

Just a question, but is Strome really worth that much yet? He needs to follow up his solid half season with more of the same before I'd open the vault and hand him big cash.
- breadbag

110% agreed.

If I were bowman, and god knows 97% of you are damn happy I am not, but my first move would be to lock up ADB and announce it on 7/1. Get that done NOW.

From there, Strome has to prove it again.....and honestly if he wants HUGE money thn I deal him like they did Schmaltz and Saad before him.

The other thing, is.....if all these moves aren't locking you in to a playoff spot come the deadline in February, Im making everyone but ADB available to be traded at the deadline OR in the offseason.

To me, this offseason is Bowman's last chance to get this right....it doesn't work out you blow this thing up. Fire Bowman, trade off all the old core guys (assuming they will go) and start a new. I can handle that as a fan a helluva lot better then the White Sox band aid on the titanic approach they tried for years, and even the Bulls tried for awhile.

You either rebuild or you don't.

As if the cap situation weren't bad enough already in Chicago, the other GMs handing out these insane deals are setting the market to ensure the cap woes here will continue for some time.
- Return of the Roar

Eberle scored 19 goals last year and is 29 years old. As a declining player he gets a 5.5M contract and Isle fans appear to be celebrating that. Handing EK an 88M contract would also be insane.
After the July 1 madness will there be many teams left which are not up against the Cap? If Bowman sits back and refuses to participate in this madness, the Hawks position relative to the rest of the league will improve without adding any players but by having Cap flexibility to make opportune moves in the future.

As usual, the vault gets opened by other GMs signing similar players to big deals - and the market value of a player with Strome’s history gets driven up. Stan May have little choice.
- StLBravesFan

This is why I see the Hawks really truly only having under $5MM in free cap to work with, and maybe they stretch it to $9.4MM if they can upgrade moving AA.

It is consistent with SB's statement the other day that they are looking for a top 4 D guy but someone on the fringe to make the cap hit reasonable.

It'll only be like Seabrook's deal if Karlsson declines within 2 years of signing it, which seems unlikely. Seabrook is 5 years older, at the time of signing he had played a couple hundred more games (including 45 in the playoffs) the Karlsson has rn, and Seabrook played a heavy style that tends to wear plays down more than Karlsson. Last season was the first time Karlsson has had any injury issues, but he's not the type of d-man whose style will be too injury inducing in general.

I wouldn't want to the Hawks to sign Karlsson to that deal, but I can understand why a team with some cap space and who really think their window is in the next 3-5 years. They're willing to eat the back end of the contract years at that one chance for the cup. The same way the Hawks were willing to potentially eat Hossa's cap hit into his late 30s for a chance of the cup in 2010 and again in 2013 when they decided not to use a compliance buyout on Hossa.

I mean, if Jones had just been at least an average goalie, it's likely the Sharks make it past the Blues and to the final.
- L_B_R

I don't always agree with your opinions but your posts are very well laid out.

Just a question, but is Strome really worth that much yet? He needs to follow up his solid half season with more of the same before I'd open the vault and hand him big cash.
- breadbag

I am not as enthralled by Strome as many other posters are. If Stan extends him it better be on a short term bridge deal. A long term big numbers deal would be too huge a gamble. He was a marginal player before he arrived here albeit a relatively young one.

110% agreed.

If I were bowman, and god knows 97% of you are damn happy I am not, but my first move would be to lock up ADB and announce it on 7/1. Get that done NOW.

From there, Strome has to prove it again.....and honestly if he wants HUGE money thn I deal him like they did Schmaltz and Saad before him.

The other thing, is.....if all these moves aren't locking you in to a playoff spot come the deadline in February, Im making everyone but ADB available to be traded at the deadline OR in the offseason.

To me, this offseason is Bowman's last chance to get this right....it doesn't work out you blow this thing up. Fire Bowman, trade off all the old core guys (assuming they will go) and start a new. I can handle that as a fan a helluva lot better then the White Sox band aid on the titanic approach they tried for years, and even the Bulls tried for awhile.

You either rebuild or you don't.
- SteveRain

I’m actually of the exact opposite POV. I think ADB’s extension can wait as we know what kind of player he is/can be, so another season similar to the one he had this season and he’ll get the contract that he deserves which shouldn’t be much different than what it theoretically could be this offseason.

Strome on the other hand could be had for maybe 70 cents on the dollar now. He’s obviously coming off a pretty solid debut season here in Chicago, and if he really takes another step next season, he’s going to be quite expensive, so it might make some sense to give him a bridge extension based on what he has shown so far with the expectation that he’s going to outperform his value. By this time next season, he could be $3M AAV more expensive than if he was to extend now.

And I can’t reiterate this enough, but I would lock up Kahun long term as well now. I expect BIG things from him next season, and I see a sizable raise for him if we don’t get that done now.

Thanks all for the well wishes and the info. We were thinking the grassy knoll was the way to go. The Depends thought is an interesting one. I get that it makes sense and all but
- Jason Millen

Here's the real question for you Jason: are you most interested in the speech(es) and such? Or do you want to try and get up-close and get pics and/or autographs?

My daughters went to all 3 CUP parades. By the 3rd one, they realized that the chances of getting close to the stage were next to nil and standing along the route, you only get a glimpse for seconds since the buses always seem to leave late and they are in a hurry to get to the main stage.

So, the 3rd time, they camped out at the UC before/after and got some great pics with players and some of the coaches. Given that you never know if/when there will be another CUP for you, you'd probably be more inclined to be near where the speeches are going to happen.

This is why I see the Hawks really truly only having under $5MM in free cap to work with, and maybe they stretch it to $9.4MM if they can upgrade moving AA.

It is consistent with SB's statement the other day that they are looking for a top 4 D guy but someone on the fringe to make the cap hit reasonable.
- Return of the Roar

I think the d-man upgrade will not come via free agency but trade, and I think (per usual) it’ll be for a d-man we didn’t see coming/didn’t know was available.

I think we see bottom-six upgrades, and internal re-signings. I’m not expecting an active offseason.

I’m actually of the exact opposite POV. I think ADB’s extension can wait as we know what kind of player he is/can be, so another season similar to the one he had this season and he’ll get the contract that he deserves which shouldn’t be much different than what it theoretically could be this offseason.

Strome on the other hand could be had for maybe 70 cents on the dollar now. He’s obviously coming off a pretty solid debut season here in Chicago, and if he really takes another step next season, he’s going to be quite expensive, so it might make some sense to give him a bridge extension based on what he has shown so far with the expectation that he’s going to outperform his value. By this time next season, he could be $3M AAV more expensive than if he was to extend now.

And I can’t reiterate this enough, but I would lock up Kahun long term as well now. I expect BIG things from him next season, and I see a sizable raise for him if we don’t get that done now.
- TommyHawk

IF ADB pops another 40 he's going to want huge money.

Strome got sent packing quickly out of Arizona after failing to impress the entire organization. Change of scenery, the ole "I'll show you" mantra ,and he has a nice season. So which one is he? That's why I wait on him......and IMO, ADB > DS in regards to LT importance.

Kahun? No idea....see what plays out.

We all have to trust Bowman and if he fails he wont' be here this time next year, and if he is, this organization's one goal mantra is a load of crap....

I think the d-man upgrade will not come via free agency but trade, and I think (per usual) it’ll be for a d-man we didn’t see coming/didn’t know was available.

I think we see bottom-six upgrades, and internal re-signings. I’m not expecting an active offseason.
- TommyHawk

This is how I see it going. Will be interesting to see how Stan handles the goaltending situation, whether he lets Delia and Lankanin battle it out for back-up or signs a vet.

NHL Rumors: Buffalo Sabres – Trades Are More Realistic Option Than Free Agency To Improve.

https://mynhltraderumors....cy-to-improve/2019/06/14/

LeBrun:

Hearing from a few sources that the Maple Leafs have quietly been shopping Garret Sparks. The backup goalie, 25, has one year left on his deal paying him $750k.

It'll only be like Seabrook's deal if Karlsson declines within 2 years of signing it, which seems unlikely. Seabrook is 5 years older, at the time of signing he had played a couple hundred more games (including 45 in the playoffs) the Karlsson has rn, and Seabrook played a heavy style that tends to wear plays down more than Karlsson. Last season was the first time Karlsson has had any injury issues, but he's not the type of d-man whose style will be too injury inducing in general.

I wouldn't want to the Hawks to sign Karlsson to that deal, but I can understand why a team with some cap space and who really think their window is in the next 3-5 years. They're willing to eat the back end of the contract years at that one chance for the cup. The same way the Hawks were willing to potentially eat Hossa's cap hit into his late 30s for a chance of the cup in 2010 and again in 2013 when they decided not to use a compliance buyout on Hossa.

I mean, if Jones had just been at least an average goalie, it's likely the Sharks make it past the Blues and to the final.
- L_B_R

You are spot on regarding EK's style of play not lending itself to being very injury inducing. My main concern is that his game is predicated on his legs and that is where all of his injuries have been (Achilles, and groin). Watching him in the playoffs, he was NOT his normal self and quite ineffective. Obviously, that goes hand in hand with not being fully healthy, but that is a lot of term and cap hit to commit under these conditions (IMO).

Eberle scored 19 goals last year and is 29 years old. As a declining player he gets a 5.5M contract and Isle fans appear to be celebrating that. Handing EK an 88M contract would also be insane.
After the July 1 madness will there be many teams left which are not up against the Cap? If Bowman sits back and refuses to participate in this madness, the Hawks position relative to the rest of the league will improve without adding any players but by having Cap flexibility to make opportune moves in the future.
- 67hawks

Could be, but there will always be some teams with space. Its not like it all dries up next year.

The fear I have is exactly in your example - 20 goal guy on down trajectory gets $5.5MM. Hayes is playing the field to get max pay and someone will pay it. Likely an overpay. If Strome repeats last year, how is he less than $7MM in value as a 2C being so young with upside?

Again, very similar to the Schmaltz quandry - the key difference being Strome brings more of what the team needs and may have more upside.

NHL Rumors: Buffalo Sabres – Trades Are More Realistic Option Than Free Agency To Improve.

https://mynhltraderumors....cy-to-improve/2019/06/14/
- walleyeb1

Says Marco Scandella could be had for a trade, one year left at $4 mil, wonder what Buffalo would want back for him? Placeholder until the kids gain experience?

I am not as enthralled by Strome as many other posters are. If Stan extends him it better be on a short term bridge deal. A long term big numbers deal would be too huge a gamble. He was a marginal player before he arrived here albeit a relatively young one.
- 67hawks

My biggest concern with Strome is if he can produce away from ADB? I doubt he will get much time away from him this year since they worked so well last year, but we'll see.

Like many others, I can't see them extending him until they see more (although it has been done before - AA). The one thing I really like about Colliton is that he is not afraid of dropping guys for not performing the way he wants. Next year will be interesting.

IF ADB pops another 40 he's going to want huge money.

Strome got sent packing quickly out of Arizona after failing to impress the entire organization. Change of scenery, the ole "I'll show you" mantra ,and he has a nice season. So which one is he? That's why I wait on him......and IMO, ADB > DS in regards to LT importance.

Kahun? No idea....see what plays out.

We all have to trust Bowman and if he fails he wont' be here this time next year, and if he is, this organization's one goal mantra is a load of crap....

- SteveRain

I agree with you in the sense that ADB is more of a sure-thing so it makes more sense to re-sign him, but I just want to see Stan lock in younger talent quicker than usual, which is something we haven’t seen since he’s assumed office.

I’m buying Strome improving next season with a full summer here and if I was Stan I’d gamble on an extension now.

In regards to ADB, another 40-goal campaign and he’s getting the same ~$8M contract that he might be able to even get this offseason. I just don’t realistically see him ever being worth more than that, and that’s taking into account expectations for next season.

I’m probably just higher on Kahun than most, but I truly expect him to be most improved Hawk next season. I really, really like his game.

It's interesting to see how much basketball has taken over in Toronto. I haven't lived there in a while but when I did the Raptors were just as popular as the Leafs. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Raptors take over as the city's #1 sports team now.
- DarthKane

I read, not sure if true, Toronto is the most diverse city in the world so the demographics are shifting and the popularity of the Raptors will become bigger and bigger. That said the Leafs are still very relevant as many new comers become Leaf fans. IF, and that is a big IF, the Leafs should ever win a cup, the parade here in Toronto will dwarf the cup parades the Blackhawks had. And the turnout to those Hawk parades were massive. All that said I hope I never find out if I'm right or wrong.

I read, not sure if true, Toronto is the most diverse city in the world so the demographics are shifting and the popularity of the Raptors will become bigger and bigger. That said the Leafs are still very relevant as many new comers become Leaf fans. IF, and that is a big IF, the Leafs should ever win a cup, the parade here in Toronto will dwarf the cup parades the Blackhawks had. And the turnout to those Hawk parades were massive. All that said I hope I never find out if I'm right or wrong.
- paulr

Still wouldn’t come close to touching the Cubs WS parade, which was the 7th largest gathering in human history (greatest in the US).

110% agreed.

If I were bowman, and god knows 97% of you are damn happy I am not, but my first move would be to lock up ADB and announce it on 7/1. Get that done NOW.

From there, Strome has to prove it again.....and honestly if he wants HUGE money thn I deal him like they did Schmaltz and Saad before him.

The other thing, is.....if all these moves aren't locking you in to a playoff spot come the deadline in February, Im making everyone but ADB available to be traded at the deadline OR in the offseason.

To me, this offseason is Bowman's last chance to get this right....it doesn't work out you blow this thing up. Fire Bowman, trade off all the old core guys (assuming they will go) and start a new. I can handle that as a fan a helluva lot better then the White Sox band aid on the titanic approach they tried for years, and even the Bulls tried for awhile.

You either rebuild or you don't.
- SteveRain

I hear you on upping ADB as quickly as possible but I would do the same for Strome. If ADB has a big season it is very likely Strome will be a big part of it. I think Strome's biggest attributes are his on ice visions and smarts. Having ADB for a full season may see Strome put up some big numbers. Signing Strome now may allow the Hawks to sign him to a lower contract.

I agree with you in the sense that ADB is more of a sure-thing so it makes more sense to re-sign him, but I just want to see Stan lock in younger talent quicker than usual, which is something we haven’t seen since he’s assumed office.

I’m buying Strome improving next season with a full summer here and if I was Stan I’d gamble on an extension now.

In regards to ADB, another 40-goal campaign and he’s getting the same ~$8M contract that he might be able to even get this offseason. I just don’t realistically see him ever being worth more than that, and that’s taking into account expectations for next season.

I’m probably just higher on Kahun than most, but I truly expect him to be most improved Hawk next season. I really, really like his game.
- TommyHawk

Valid points, and Kahun was a nice surprise to watch last season. Good speed, and some nice skill.

I also hope they lock up young talent quickly but I also want SB to avoid any future bomb contracts that limit this team's financial flexibility in the future...we've had enough of those from Talon to SB.