Big Fish Still Out There

by Mislav Jantoljak on July 3, 2012 in Morning Mashup - 476 Comments

Zach Attack!

Two of the biggest names of this year’s free agency remain unsigned. Both Zach Parise and Ryan Suter are taking their time to pick their destination and career path for the foreseeable future.

Parise retreated to Minnesota to discuss the situation with his family and will most probably make his decision today.

Per Dreger:

“Parise’s agent, Wade Arnott: We have thoroughly deliberated every option with Zach. He wishes to take some time to step back and review all with his fiance and his family. We could be drawing closer to a decision.”

Devils, Wild, Flyers, Penguins and Red Wings are still believed to be on his list.

Suter, on the other hand, is just contemplating. Seemingly feeling no pressure, his agent was somewhat brash (and rightfully so) when asked about his client’s future:

Per Lebrun:

“There will be no decision on Ryan Suter tonight and there is no timetable for his contract signing at this time. Ryan is considering his opportunities and is taking the necessary time to give each proper consideration.”

In the meantime, Dallas swung a really interesting deal with the Buffalo Sabres. Buffalo’s centerman, Derek Roy, who had a sub par 2011-2012 season, got dealt in exchange for chirpy centerman Steve Ott and depth defenseman Adam Pardy. This fills a 2^nd line C hole which was created by Mike Ribeiro’s departure to Washington.

Olli Jokinen signed a 2 year deal, 4.5 mil. over two years. While both players are indeed centermen – Roy being higher on my personal “Leafs want” list – neither is really all that appealing. Jokinen had a good season with the Flames, but remains a 55-60 point guy in the NHL. He’s more of a goalscorer than a passer and is fairly inconsistent.

Roy on the other hand, is certainly due for a comeback season. A talented, playmaking center could have been useful, but giving up assets to get a guy who could end up being a Connolly type signing doesn’t seem like the best move available. The Leafs also needed size, which Roy lacks.

YOUR LINKS:

Videos from Leafs’ prospect camp

Cam Charron transcribes Burke’s July 1st conference call

Canadiens ink Price

Bettman proves the value of NHL suspensions

Leaf fans: beware what we wish for – a warning from VLM

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