McGratton, Gerber/Corvo & Off-Season

I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be writing about Brian "Big Ern" McGratton. But after hearing lots of rumours and reading about him 'protecting' Crosby, I thought I would chime in. Now I'm not saying it won't happen, because there is a possibility, but I would think twice before moving this guy. He isn't a great skater, goal scorer and considered average on a good day, but yes he can fight, but there is more to this guy than what meets the eye. Trading him might start an uproar in the dressing room, simply because he is so well liked by the entire team - and thats a fact. I do realize its part of the business, but so is making sure you have a happy dressing room and team chemistry. I do know that McGratton and Emery are really good friends not to mention, Spezza, Kelly, Neil and basically the rest of the team, and the close relationship he has with them. Now, like I said, I do believe the trade MAY happen, but I really hope they do not pull the trigger unless they receive something more than decent in return (high pick) as his value is more off the ice than on.

Gerber has been an on-going, talked about issue for a long time. People are wondering if Ottawa will keep him after this year. Some think they might, but I personally think they will have no choice but to either buy him out or move him and eat half the salary. With Phillips, Volch and Emery being there big signings, they simply cannot afford him. Also I do believe Corvo will be moved as well, probably for next to nothing, thus creating a spot for Schubert. Now I do believe Ottawa will attempt to keep Preissing and the overall feeling I have got from talking to sources with the team is that he likes it here and likes this team, and I believe he will stay. Perhaps Ottawa will acquire a cheap, depth defenseman in the off-season. Look for Ottawa, if they have the $$$ to take a run at Comrie aswell. His play has proven to be QUITE VALUABLE.

Here are some of my off-season transactions I believe the team will make:

Re-Sign Preissing (UFA)
Re-Sign Phillips (UFA)
Re-Sign Volch (RFA?)
Re-Sign Emery (RFA)

Move Corvo
Move/Buy-out Gerber

Obtain a depth D-MAN
Obtain an older goalie (1 year deal)

Attempt to sign Comrie.

I also believe they will attempt to give Heatley a contract extension, or new deal.

Anyways, chime in with your thoughts, I hope the team can stay on track and continue to roll with this momentum. I will be at the Boston game and am also making the trip to Montreal with some friends, which should be FUN to say the least.

- S.I.

ASG = Not Good for Sens

Yes, the ASG is approaching and so is the break. 6 days off is not good for a team that is rolling. Yes they will be healthy - however - momentum is strong, and hopefully they can continue the roll they are on. Tonights matchup vs. VAN - will be a great matchup.

Here is what I anticipate the lines will be when Spezza & Fisher return.

Heatley, Kelly, Alfie
Fisher, Spezza, Eaves/Vermette
Schaefer, Comrie, Neil
Schubert, McAmmond, Eaves/Vermetter

- McGratton, Hamel - scratched. Hamel may be moved or picked up through waivers. Also, Ottawa may add another defenseman for depth. Not Pitkanen. No chance - unless they move a roster player.

More soon.

Thanks.

- SI

Happy New Year!

Hey All,

Sorry for the lack of blogs. I have sorting some family issues of late and been busy with business etc.I like the Comrie move, and for those of you who say I never said anything about him, refer back to my post "Frustration Brews and so do Rumours" - Not trying to say I told you so or anything like that, but I reported it way back that they were talking, and it took awhile to pull the trigger and I REALLY like the move, you lose a guy who really never was going to play for OTT again. Look for the Sens to add a depth D-MAN and/or FRWD.

You might see Hamel moved or waived, with the outside chance of Eaves moving as well.Emery looks great and the team is playing well under this new system of defence, finally Murray is doing something right.

I PROMISE to have more blogs, Im thinking every Wednesday and every Sunday from now on - thanks to those who have stopped by.


TTYL -S.I.