Yoikes! I have mixed emotions on this one, much like you SC I got the feeling he was due to breakout any game now... too bad for the guy he has been one of the hardest working Sens on the ice all season long. I guess with that sized paycheck though it is simple - get points or get waivered.
Ouch - I know some will LOVE this move but I just hope it doesn't hurt the team morale. Cheech was very well liked and most guys were pulling for him. I know everyone (players especially) will understand the business/hockey need for this move, but with the roll we're on I'm just wary of anything killing the mood.
SC, how do you always manage to post these things before anyone else? Sportsnet, TSN, thescore, espn, etc. you were the first to post that on your twitter. Nice!
Cheechoo will stay. This is Murray giving another team an opportunity to claim him and JC to get a chance to play in a bigger role. If noone claims him, then he stays in Ottawa. No way Ottawa buries this guy in the minors....I'd be highly surprised...even with the addition of Cullen
This is a tough move and you can bet BM lost some sleep on this one. Cheechoo is a nice guy, earned his contract and then just couldn't live up to it. Simply a dollars and cents move and I wish Cheechoo all the best!!
I can't believe how much this bothers me. Good luck Cheechoo!!
Well, IF (HUGE IF) some other team has told Murray they'll claim him on re-entry then maybe it's okay. But wouldn't re-entry have to be the following day (i.e. after the freeze) or would the waive on the way down be quick on a deadline day so that they could do re-entry in an hour or two??
Still kind of a bummer, but if he's getting a shot on another NHL team it's not so bad I guess. I can see a team taking a chance on him for half his salary - but then they have him next year too don't they?
Guys, hockey is a business and this was a business move. Cheechoo makes too much money for his non-point getting. We have much character already and Cullen helps.
Murray was not fleeced. We got Michalek and now (sort of) Cullen for Heatley. In fact, if Murray convinced Eugene to pay him off the cap (in part) then it's even more of a win for Murray than if he's on our cap the whole time.
ANON 12:15 - you make all ANONs look like jerks. If Murray can clear Cheechoo - something Wilson couldn't do - then Murray wins even more.
Murray - got rid of Dany the Douche, got Michalek for a long, well priced contract, got an extra pick he could pakage for Cullen. All he "lost" was having to hold Cheechoo for most of this year which in the end didn't prevent anything (rentals, resigning Volch etc).
Wilson - gave up a solid player (MM) and a pick for a one-dimensional, selfish douche that won't likely produce in the playoffs. His only "win" was dumping a bad contract only to have Murray do what Wilson couldn't convince SJ's owner to do.
Really, this is good timing on waiving Cheech. The "boys" have the whole olympic break to get over the sad part of a hard-worker getting waived. So the impact to morale should be minimal.
Still a bitter pill, but that's why GMs are there - to make the hard decisions for the better of the club.
Tommy Chongchoo!!! Ha ha, love it!! Not sure how Cheech gets all the love from so many. Just hope he's gone for good!!!! That $3.5m will help out in soooo many ways.
I never had anything against Cheech. Great guy, hard working player.
But, if you're a team that's looking at making a push into the playoffs, you can't have 3 million in cap money going to a guy that doesn't produce. It's that simple, unfortunately for Cheechoo. I'm sure deep down, he himself understands this as well.
Hopefully Cheechoo can get claimed by a team that will give him more of an opportunity than we were able to here (we are simply too deep up front to fit him into the top-6, especially now with Cullen).
If he doesn't get claimed, maybe some time down in the A will help him out. Either way, this will clear a few dollars off our cap. Hopefully this is a signal of another deal coming for which we needed to clear some cap for...defenceman maybe.
This was a tough move but it had to be done. Cheechoo works hard but hard work alone doesn't win games or championships and at his salary, he wasn't producing enough to warrant playing him.
In his place Matt Cullen will hopefully prosper.
This also clears up cap space to re-sign Volchenkov, who's true value to this team is immeasurable.
SC, not sure I understand this whole waiver business. It goes in draft order? i.e. 30th place team gets first refusal, on down to first - if no one claims then he "clears" waivers. This puts him where then?
Is this the "one-way contract" situation where a player must clear waivers before being sent to the farm team?
After that, the option is re-entry, where I understand that the player can be claimed at half his contract value, and the Sens pick up the other half - is that correct? What is the cap implication? Does the new team take on only half the cap? Is Ottawa still on the hook for half the cap?
Finally, I assume this is usually done when someone has told the GM that they will claim him, usually on re-entry unless the player has some value (not the case with Cheech's contract).
Unlike Muckler (ex. Redden), Murray knows when he is carrying dead weight, and will try to get rid of it asap.. Please God someone pick him up, and good riddance!!
Chrisp, How can you not like this move? I agree with a lot of your posts and opinions, but your stance on Cheechoo is beyond me..
Its not just a business/money move, its a hockey move.. This guy brings his "A" game every night, but its notgood enough for the NHL.. B-I-N-G-O, and Bingo was his naaame-o!
SC, not sure I understand this whole waiver business. It goes in draft order? i.e. 30th place team gets first refusal, on down to first - if no one claims then he "clears" waivers. This puts him where then?
Is this the "one-way contract" situation where a player must clear waivers before being sent to the farm team?
After that, the option is re-entry, where I understand that the player can be claimed at half his contract value, and the Sens pick up the other half - is that correct? What is the cap implication? Does the new team take on only half the cap? Is Ottawa still on the hook for half the cap?
Finally, I assume this is usually done when someone has told the GM that they will claim him, usually on re-entry unless the player has some value (not the case with Cheech's contract).
If it means extending Volchenkov, it had to be done. But I will applaud Cheechoo everywhere he goes.
Seemed like absolutely one of the best men this team has ever had.
We also probably just lost 1000 tickets/ game from all of the first nations supporters who adore the guy, no matter if he scores or not. Wish more fans were like that around here.
I can live with that, but would rather see another D added. Kuba's been sloppy for a long while now (with the occassional good game). I think Lee's better than Campoli and really was only in Bingo due to his contract being 2-way, but if he could be our 7th D for now that would mean we're stronger for sure.
SM, please dont think all cheechoo supporters didn't think that this decision would never come. I for one knew there was a chance of him being put on waivers or something. Don't give us all the "I told you so". We all are hockey fans and understand the cap and how the NHL works. We all understand the money for Cheech is too much, but what he brings to the table is something you can't pay for, heart, determination, character and puts the team way ahead of himself. you dont seem to understand that guys like cheechoo are solid pieces to success. Stats are important but not everything and thats what you dont seem to understand. If you have anything rude to say back to me than just save it cause you still get my point. GO CHEECH GO!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope Cullen produces in the playoffs. Cheechoo wasn't producing - I'll grant that - but I think his game is the exact type of game that leads to playoff production.
I hope this has everything to do with getting Volchenkov resigned since talks are actually starting and Murray has an offer on the table. After last nights game against Ovechkin, theres no doubt in my mind that Ottawa has to sign him or trade him. My hope is for signing him.
I know acquiring Cullen puts us *at* the cap pretty much, but waiving Cheech really only makes sense in one of the following situations - otherwise just scratch him we have him if someone gets hurt or shits the bed.
1) Someone's told us they'll claim him on re-entry.
2) Volch extension is coming and we need that space to fit in *next year's* cap (not sure if that works out since we have plenty of space for next year right now according to nhlnumbers.com). If this was solely to make room for Volch they could have done it in the summer.
3) Some other move is in the works that would have put us over the cap (i.e. Lee/Shannon for a D??)
@Hax....I'm no hater, nor am I heartless. I'm a realist! I enjoy watching my team make great decisions. To improve now amd for the future. He's a millionaire!! Who doesn't earn what he makes. Plain and simple. Spells itself out. $3.0m-$3.5m.......tomato -tomatoe!?! As for celebrating.....I'm on top of the moon. So far today is nothing less than a day for HUGE celebration!!!
I feel bad for Cheech. Has a great work ethic and looks like he was well liked by the team. I have a feeling that BM has something else up his sleeve for today.
BeJamin had a good point on the other thread - if nobody claims Cheech on re-entry we have him for the playoffs. Plus he gets to keep playing in Bingo during the break and maybe gets his shiz together?
And ANON 12:39 - look at the PP when we're healthy:
Unit 1 Michalek-Spezza-Kovalev Karlsson-Alfie (though CC likes Kuba)
The sens should trade for Brenden Bell. Hasn't got a chance to play in the league since putting togther a decent year in Ottawa last year. Obviously not the long term solution but could be a good fill in till Karlson gets back. Likely wouldn't cost more than a 4 or 5 rounder.
I love Cheechoo's positive attitude and solid work ethic, but I don't feel bad for him. He's an NHL hockey player, who makes a butt load of cash, and got to play in the NHL for 501 Games. Anyone else want to trade lives with?
Its a tough business, no doubt, but I don't feel sorry for him.
Brian Murray earlier today - "My goal from the time I was appointed to this position was to continue the proud and winning history of this organization and to make it one of the top-tier organizations in the NHL," said Murray. "I feel that we have moved this franchise into a strong position where we can challenge for the Stanley Cup each season while at the same time we're continuing to draft and develop top prospects who will help this team in the years to come." EXACTLY THE WAY TO DO IT.
OK folks, stop picking on SM and move on. He's a passionate sens fan like the rest of us.
Seemed like Cheechoo was showing a glimmer in the last couple of games. That's a lot of money for someone to play in the minors. Hope it works out for him.
I wouldn't put much stock in Garrioch saying Cheech is "finished" in Ottawa. Garrioch jumps to conclusions and has next to zero hockey knowledge. He's just a windbag with a laptop.
all the effort in the world doesn't make up for being a slow, non-scoring defensive liability. Even if he was making league minimum he would be useless. I love the guy but because of the injuries he just can't do it.
ANON 1:09 - I see you haven't watched many games this year. Especially lately - didn't Spezza score just last night with Cheechoo on his wing ... and the night before that too? Hmmm, does Michalek have a goal on that line too?
With this we would be about $235K from the cap (Cheechoo waived and Kelly, Lee, Shannon included in the deals) with both Cullen and Zidlicky UFA at the end of the season.
OK OK folks. Listen, I, like most people, like Cheechoo as a person. And I too "think" he works hard. But ask yourself this: Does it only seem like he's working hard because of his lack of skating abilities? I mean, he always looks like he's staking as fast as he can but never as fast as everyone else on the ice. If he didn't go "all out" then he'd look like an ECHL player. "Working hard" is the only thing he's got. Without it he'd have been waived 2 years ago. We can't keep players for working hard. If that were the case then I'm sure we'd find a ton of players from the minors willing to work just as hard to stay in the NHL. Hard work is not enough!
I'd be willing to bet that nobody picks him up. I'm not hating, just giving my $0.02.
SM I really want to punch you in the brain but I'm scared it would be difficult to find.
Cullen's contract is 2.8M. Smith is 500k. Lee is 1.2M. Acquiring and moving up that much salary meant the Sens would be over the cap in short order. We already had close to zero cap space because of all the injury call-ups this year.
Cheechoo was the only guy with a big enough contract and a small enough role. He was the logical choice to be put on waivers as much as myself and others hate it.
Reality check though SM. Players aren't payed in the playoffs. Cullen is likely just a rental. I would expect Cheechoo stays an Ottawa Senator and gets serious work in with our conditioning team over the summer and down in Bingo over the next 20 games. It will be free to call him up in the playoffs and make no mistake he will have a say in our playoffs before its all said and done. I would be absolutely shocked to see anyone pick him up at his price tag and production, and even more shocked to not see him called up the second the playoffs start.
Chongchoo!!!!! Anon 12:20, by far the funniest thing I have read in a while.
Anon 12:17, never heard of the word noone?
In all seriousness, Cheech was a victim of circumstances. At the end of the day I'm a Sens fan, not a Cheechoo fan. If his contract is in the way then so be it. If it helps the team I'm all for it. I have a hard time feeling sorry for any of these guys. He makes more than all of us combined, lives his childhood dream, treated like a star etc etc etc I'm glad he is a nice guy and hard worker, speaks well of him being a good Canadain kid. I wish him the best.
Unless you knew Cheechoo personally, then noone should be upset.. He didnt produce, his 5 goals were all "useless" goals when games were out of reach, he cant skate, his shot is very weak.
remember Gerber?? he was a great team player, super nice guy, tried his best, but couldnt live up to the hype, and 95% of the fans drove him out of the city.. now all these fans are here supporting Cheechoo for being just as bad, if not worse.. I dont get it!! Where was this support for Gerber last year??
If you like Cheechoo cuz of his grittiness and hard work, then we have Donovan, Winchester, Ruutu, Neil, the list goes on.. I dont even think the KHL will want him!
Anyways, he had his chances, he played 60 games and did diddly-squat.. he sucked, plain and simple.. goodbye!
Well it's unfortunate things didn't work out for Cheechoo here. I was really hoping he would become a 20 goal scorer here but if anything he seems to have regressed. The problem is that he brought literally nothing to the table other than his work ethic/heart. He blew every scoring opportunity he ever got his hands on, he's slow and we can't use him to kill penalties. So while he seems like a nice enough guy, for $3 million this move made a lot of sense. I'm just hoping something can be done to strengthen the defense a bit. I think if people view this move as something that can help sign Volchenkov, I don't see how anyone could possible be upset.
Wow. Why do so many people hate this move. We were pouring 3 mil into a player who didn't really have a role. He doesn't have the scoring touch, he doesn't skate well at all and he's not a sound defensive player. Sure he works hard but he hasn't been earning that contract. That's a lot of money to be putting towards dead weight. Also, the Cullen deal very well could have put Ottawa over the cap altogether making it a crucial move. Personally I think it's a great move that I've been awaiting for a very long time. Does anyone think that Cheechoo brings anything to the table that Donovan or Winchester wouldn't for a fraction of the price. Give those guys a chance to play and contribute.
I really liked Cheechoo's work ethic and I was hoping as much as anyone that he would find his touch again. Unfortunately he didn't and Murray had to make a professional decision. Good luck Cheech.
Doubt they'll buy him out. Don't think they'll want the cap hit for another 2 years, even at half price. I suspect that either; 1) Murray knows there is a team that will pick him off of waivers, either now or through re-entry; 2) Murray and Melnyk have talked and Eugene is willing to foot the bill of a $3mil player in the minors for another year, to get him off the cap. They'll be paying him regardless, if Eugene will front the money then they're better off with him in the minors and the space on the cap.
I feel bad for the guy, I do think he worked hard every night. However, it's a results driven business, and no one can argue that the results simply weren't there. I hope someone grabs him so he can continue his NHL career.
Also lets point something out here. Cullen was playing top six minutes in Carolina and 1st unit PP time. He has 40 points in 60 games.
Cheechoo has 15 points in 60 games. Has had almost zero time in the top six forward and zero time on the 1st PP. I expect he would have at least 30 points if he was playing the same role Cullen is. Just some food for thought.
Man really, everyone who says Cheech was "useless" really is not paying attention. Yes he wasn't finishing. Yes he's lost a step.
But if you know ANYTHING about hockey and WATCH THE F'N GAMES you will have seen that he's positionally very solid, great on the boards, creating some space and chances (though yes, not finishing like we'd like) and almost never the goat on a goal.
That all adds up to solid 3rd liner and yes, he's totally overpaid for that - but we didn't sign him to that contract.
He's waived because Wilson signed him to a bloated contract and then we got stuck with it to get rid of Dany. If he was making Ruutu money he'd still be on the team and we'd all love him.
How dare you besmirch the good name of "Battlin'" Bill Muckalt. His 8 assists did more for us in that season than goals ever could. we would have never been inspired to play so well against Philly were it not for his contributions that year. We all talk about the Spezza pick and arrival of Big Z but the cornerstone of our 2001 year was Big Battlin' Bill Muckalt
Bottom line is Murray didn't want him but had to take him in the Heatley deal. He doesn't fit on Murray's team and I think the plan all along was to try to trade/waive/buy him out. I liked the guy too but his salary vs. production made him not fit into our puzzle. Makes perfect sense to me for salary cap reasons too.
Two games against middle-of-the-road teams before the break. Then Karlsson is back and Campoli is back (but scratched). I've always thought Lee was better than Campoli/Picard - especially when playing third pairing with Carkner. In fact, I've always thought Murray was pretty much planning to bring Lee up when the cap relief was not needed (that's the only reason he's in Bingo to begin with).
Anon@1:13 - 1:09 here again - Michalek and Spezza both scored last night. Did Cheechoo do much on either goal to help? Or, put another way - did he contribute anything to either play that ANY NHL player with a pulse couldn't have done?
I agree with everyone who thinks Cheechoo is a nice guy. Ultimately, not the point - his level of play doesn't belong in the NHL any more.
Interesting CBA question though - is it even possible to load up on salary at the deadline, dump enough players in the minors to be under cap, and then recall all of your salary come playoffs from the minors to have a stacked playoff team? It would seem to be a bit of a loophole. I'd be curious to know whether it would in theory be feasible or not.
People, trying hard is the minimum expected of an NHL player. Cheechoo was terrible last night. He was benched for most of the 3rd period. Semin was his cover on 2 of the goals, he had a reasonable opportunity to block 2 shots and he did nothing. I think the last straw was when one of the Caps was pushing around Michalek(remember, our top scorer) and Cheechoo refused to step in and protect him. It was Spezza who stepped in. I was mad as hell for that and I do not recall seeing him on the ice again. He may have been a nice guy buthe has forgotten how to play.
As far as I understand it, here is the waiver process. If another team claims Cheech on waivers, they pick up his salary and cap hit. If a team picks him up during re-entry, both teams split the cap and the salary. If the Sens try to bring him up during the playoffs, the above is still valid.
Question though: If he clears waivers and is assigned to the AHL, do the Sens gain back the cap (pro-rated of coarse)?
I feel for Cheechoo since I always think he is just about to catch-fire. Guess Murray thinks he has flamed out.
I'm going to back up what SM said, not how he said it. Most of us agreed that, despite his work ethic, Cheechoo was done. No finish, can't skate, defensive liability, slow as molasses. We're making a cup run, that's what Murray is saying.
Honestly
Cheechoo gone (solely for the contract) + Picard gone (for EVERYTHING about his game)
And we get cullen? I'm thrilled as a Sens fan.
BTW, if Cheechoo is such a great guy and a team player...why don't we just restructure his contract? Can we do that? I'll take him if he'll take 1.5mil or so.
Cheechoo's hardly Bill Muckalt. Muckalt just couldn't hack it, while Cheechoo's had a hard time trying to heal from two serious groin injuries that have clearly devastated his skating. But he's been relatively healthy all year, hopefully he can work on his skating and conditioning in the off season and will be more effective next year. With a little more luck he'd already have 10 goals this year; not nearly enough, yes, but that kind of pace would put him within striking distance of 20 for a full season next year.
I really like Cheechoo and his strong effort he puts in every night. but unfortunately he's caught in a numbers game and he's on the shit end of the stick.. I love the cullen trade, now we really do have 2 solid top lines, he's got skill, smarts and he's been to the big dance before... The Inside Man is saying that Ottawa's talks with nashville in reguards to Hamhuis are heating up.. and he speculates that Hamhuis will finnish the season in Ottawa!!! That would put us over the top!!! i havnt been this excited in a while. Murray also said he has no plans in trading Volchenkov. but wants to work hard to resign him.. after last nights game i would agree
I can understanding liking a particular player but this move isn't "wrong" by any means
1. Work Ethic: He isn't the only senator that works hard. With a few notable exceptions *COUGHKUBACOUGH* almost the entire senators roster is hard working, get in there players 2. Ice Time: Except for recently and a few random stints Cheechoo plays most of his games somewhere in the third line and not often on special teams 3. Roster Spot: He is taking up a now valuable spot on the roster with Cullen in With too many players he is looking the odd man out 4. Finances: With a cap hit of 3 a mil.# less then fisher and about a mil more then Kelly he just has too big a footprint 5. Volchenkov: You want to keep him? need to make room 6. Production: Work Ethic is meaningless without production 5g9a, a point less then Neil and two more then volchenkov just isn't good 7. Skillset: He is a shooter and former 50goaler, Alfie: 119 SOG, Cheech: 117 He is getting chances... he just can't do it
who the hell is saying they want penner? lol... pretty a forward is the last thing our minds at this point DERRRRRRRRRR.... another typical useless poster. here comes a defensman my friends
Ottawa Senators having increased dialog with the Preds in recent days. Speculation remains high that Hamhuis could finish the season in Ottawa. Alternatively Sheldon Brookbank has also been linked with the Senators *** Senators Trade Alex Picard and a 2nd for Matt Cullen**** looks even more likely that a defensive move is on the horizon.
wow now with Lee and Smith called up, we are working with 3 rookie defense since Carkner is also in his first year. We're going to need another veteran d-man if we want to make a cup run. Or can a team whose defense consists of 50% rookies get there? ...got my doubts on that...
Hey Hax, take it easy. I DO WATCH EVERY F'N GAME! And my assessment of Cheechoo is this: Seems to be working hard but doesn't actually contribute. For someone to be a solid 3rd liner they should either play the PP or PK. Cheechoo did neither, probably because of his skating. While he may have been positionally sound 5 on 5, 90% of the time he was the reason our cycle broke down. He never had the foot speed to keep up with a play.
Even if he cost the same as Ruutu I sill wouldn't like him as a 3rd line player. If you don't contribute 5 on 5 then you have to do something on the PP or PK.
Phillips- Volchenkov Kuba- Carkner Campoli- Lee (Karlsson)
If we can move Lee to get a vetern Defenceman than that is what needs to be done. I dont see us going far in the playoffs with 4 young guys on our blueline playing in their first NHL Playoffs. Carkners size will help him shut down the other teams up close but his speed could be a liability.
And I watch every game too. I can't remember the last time Cheechoo actually impressed me at a level the rest of you seem to be...I again look for production, heart is great, but this whole team is heart. And production. Murray knows this, which is why our two greatest liabilities in our zone are now gone.
Ironically the other day I was thinking Comrie for a 3rd time might be a real possibility. Just back from injury and plenty of skill to add to the second PP. Not to mention a dirt cheap contract.
@Anon 1:38: To answer your question, yes it is possible. When you put a player who is on a one way contract (obviously he has to be put on waivers first) in the AHL his salary no longer counts against the cap. Once the season is over and that time period just before the playoffs you can call up as many players as you want. Most teams will do this but scratch them because they only need them in case of injury.
If you look at Calgary last year, they had to play a few men short on their bench for the last game otherwise they would've been over the cap. But they iced a full roster for the playoffs. This is because there is no salary cap for the playoffs because the players are not paid during that time.
This is maybe why some players don't show up in the playoffs. Remember Yashin?
So basically if Cheechoo is put in the minors for the remainder of the season, once the season is over we can call him up to be in the line up for the playoffs.
Saw Cam Barker's picture on the TSN front page, tripped out... could it be, Murray resigns, waives Cheechoo, dumps Picard for Cullen, and acquires a solid Dman...
but no... went to Minnesota... the deal looks dumb to me... Minnesota aint doing any noise this year, and Chicago trades one of their top 4... why, their already solid enough to win.
Call me crazy but I think Ottawa should try and trade for Pavel Kubina? He's a UFA at the end of the year and has won a Stanley Cup. I know he was a Leaf and people will freak out because of that but we need some depth on the blueline. He can be a difference maker, especially on the PP.
Well this is only a soft deadline, I expect Murray will be looking to add some defensive depth at the real deadline. In the meantime we only have 2 games to go before the Olympic break and then Karlsson and Campoli will be a lot closer to being back, and Foligno.
Does anyone else wonder if Barker, Burns or Zidlicky will be a Senator after the deadline? Minni already has Zidlicky, Schultz, Hnidy, Burns, Zanon, Scott and now Barker.
They were also rumoured to be interested in Lee. Maybe this is Lee's audition in the next few games...
To anon @ 4:08: I was thinking the same thing. But I don't see them giving any of them up for just Lee. They gave up last year's 1st round pick and Johnsson for Barker. We'd have to give up some talent up front as well as Lee to get Barker, Burns or Zidlicky (only ones worth getting!) . I don't think it's gonna happen. Too bad though!
4:08 - I'm thinking the same. Maybe Barker was picked up as an asset by Minnesota for a later trade with the sens for Lee +. They did offload their premier D-man though so its probably unlikely.
After watching Semin prance around the sens end of the ice last night I was thinking that the sens need a d-man with a shot from the point (I know I keep repeating myself) but that can also deliver the occasional borderline bone crunching hit that keeps those types of players looking over their shoulder.
BM said in his interview on TSN.ca he likes how Cullen can play the wing, or Center and how he is good on the PK. My guess is that T1000 goes with something like this for lines.
I think that putting Cheechoo in the minors now may work out well for us. I doubt anyone is going to take him, and we'll just bring him back up at the end of the year to join us for the playoff run. Seems like the intelligent way to go to me.
One question though. You can call a player up without putting them on re-entry waivers right? I don't think you "have" to put a guy on re-entry waivers in order to get him back up to the NHL it's just something teams do to eat half a salary and get rid of someone. Meaning we can call up Cheechoo at the end of the year for the playoffs without risking another team stealing him and having only a 1.5M price tag on his contract right?
I like the idea of Sutton, I like the idea of Zidlicky more....but I don't think anyone should forget about Wisnewski as a possibility either. He's a 25 year old who may not have the size of Sutton, but I think he is a little more fleet of foot, better offensive upside etc..just a thought.
I agree the most likely next move is acquiring a Dman, but I wouldn't completely rule out another forward as well (despite the depth we have and the depth we'll have when Foligno returns)
There is no cap in the playoffs. The team will actually have most of the prospects up and with the team once the playoffs start. It's a good way for the young prospects to experience the atmosphere of a playoff run.
Just heads up to everyone who may not know...The B-Sens will be playing Syracuse in the 1st AHL Outdoor game in Syracuse on Feb. 20th. Should be an awesome game and a lot of fun. They have a skydiver dropping in to deliver the opening face off..Pretty cool. I believe they still have tickets available
If Murray is planning to add a top 4 D then that guy is (likely) going to carry a cap hit. So he's better off adding him right at the deadline. So if you're hoping for a D (like I am) then don't panic yet.
If someone claims Cheechoo on re-entry, that's not "stealing" - that's doing us the enormous favour of turning $3M wasted dollars into $1.5M wasted dollars.
I honestly, for the life of me, cannot figure out how the player we got in the context of "If you want Michalek in exchange for solving your Heatley problem, you have to eat this washed-up guy's $3M" has become such a fan favourite, when he has produced exactly nothing for Ottawa, ever.
I understand that he's a nice guy, and I too like it when nice things happen to nice people. But let's face it - he'll make $10M over this contract, and that's pretty nice. Now I'd like him to go far, far away from the Sens lineup, to somewhere that thinking Ottawa fans who enjoy skilled play no longer have to watch him floundering around ineffectively.
Haha sensfan56, your anon comments can easily be picked out due to the fact that you can only express one thought per sentence, and all you ever have to say is what you'd like to see us get. Usually involving andrew ladd or colby armstrong. Does anyone else notice this? for examples, see "Anon" 3:40 and 3:44pm, for a flawless example of his one thought per sentence method. I do agree that andy sutton could be a good filler, though.
To whoever mentioned wisnewski, come back down to earth. The ducks aren't going to be trading any young D men away, wisnewski is part of the GREAT core they have going forward, and they'll need him when Nieder retires. Besides, the ducks have been turning around their season for like a month and a half now.
Cheechoo is waived, Players being waived doesn't usually get advertised overtly because its sort of a sore subject for the guy being waived.
I feel for Cheechoo, definitely not his fault, the injuries he sustained during his time in SanJose has had a major impact. Watching him play in his short-lived prime I must say the guy was awesome. He definitely tried his hardest and I'll always be a fan. Hopefully he can rebound but I think it will be tough for him.
Cheechoo being waived is also being reported by The Ottawa Citizen.
I was really hoping that Cheechoo would return to his old form when San Jose "dumped" him on us. I loved his game in game out intensity and puck pursuit. He worked hard every shift I believe he was a very positive role model on our team. I'm not sure where he'll end up for the remainder of the year but I wish him all the best!
Picard, felt comfortable with you in the offensive zone most of the time but was very nervous watching you in the defensive zone. Best wishes in Cane country.
Cullen, welcome to O-town! I've always loved your style of play and I can't wait to see you in a Sens jersey!
Joe, that B-Sens is going to be pretty cool. I've been to the fairgrounds for dirt week a couple of times and the stands should provide a good view of the ice. Unfortunately can't make it but anyone who has time should. Syracuse is not that far and there are a couple of good places to eat - can't remember the names of any of them.
Cullen is a natural centreman who is good in the face off circle. Those that have him playing on the wing obviously don't know the player.
Huge pick up by Murray. I'm sure it wasn't easy to let Cheechoo go, but people need to give Murray credit for making the tough decision in the name of winning.
Good luck to Cheechoo wherever he ends up. He didn't put up the numbers that Heatley did, but he clearly has more honour.
Mat - Cullen is less than 50% this year on draws. Your point is still valid as he's likely lining up at center but combine less-than-stellar face off numbers with Clouston's penchant for mixing and matching to get chemistry and Cullen could just as easily end up on the wing.
Definitely the darker side of the business. Not really any choice for Murray with Cullen's $2.8M coming our way, but it's really hard to see him go. Really nice guy, really hard worker, but just could not find his scoring groove. I saw him robbed of a goal atleast 5 times this season. Hockey Gods just seem to hate this guy.
jayPEG - my issue was with people who say Cheechoo is *useless*. He's far from it. Not sure I agree with you that a third liner has to play PK or PP - I would call Neil a solid third liner and he does neither (usually).
But hey, if you don't think he's good enough to help the team that's your opinion. Or if you feel he "breaks the cycle" that's your opinion too - can't say I agree. I just think that he does/did/can help the team.
I totally get that he's not worth $3M but we didn't sign him for that. People that keep citing his salary are spinning their wheels since it's not relevant to his play.
I'm not saying I'm RIGHT and people who don't think he should be on the team are WRONG - just different points.
But I maintain that anyone who goes so far to say that he's USELESS is not that smart as he's "serviceable" at worst.
I think Murray might have been planning to give Cheechoo more time when he was acquired. Now suddendly he finds himself at the trade deadline as a contender that needs to be upgraded going into the playoffs - a nice problem to have. Sucks for Cheechoo who sounds like a class act and a good person to have around.
That said, I'd be disappointed if we didn't make more a splash on defence than the Cullen move is in the forward ranks. We need a D-man a lot more than we needed a top 6 forward.
Hax, the whole point of him being waived is his salary. It makes no difference who signed the contract, it makes a difference who's paying it and who has it on their cap. This decision was 100% about his salary and the cap, it's not the fact he hasn't earned his salary. He wouldn't be earning his salary even if he made league minimum (sorry, but he's useless, if you can name a single thing he does that provides value to this team I would love to hear it). All that matters is the cap space he was taking up, if he earned less this wouldn't have been an issue for management. So people citing his salary aren't spinning their wheels, rather, this is the whole point of the waive. If he made less they wouldn't have needed to, or if he produced more this wouldn't be a discussion. But management knows no one will claim a guy making second line money and playing fourth line value, so it makes sense to clear salary for someone who will.
I don't understand the love for this guy. I think more than anything people don't like Cheechoo, they just want to like Cheechoo. They want him to be good, they want him to make the Heatley trade better because right now it sucks. I don't blame Murray, he did what he had to, but people really wanted Cheechoo to do well not because he was a nice guy but because we wanted that trade to be as good for us as possible. We've had tonnes of nice guys go through this organization that got half the admiration Cheechoo gets and he does less than almost anyone I can think of in recent years, yet people are upset and bothered by this whole situation. But it's not for him it's for the trade.
Cullen - Spezza - Alfie Michalek - Fisher - Kovalev Winchester - Regin - Shannon Ruutu - Kelly - Neil
Those are some pretty dirty forwards lines. Replace Winchester with Foligno when he returns and I think the forwards are probably the best twelve in the league (bold statement i know). The defense I think still needs work. Kuba has never really impressed me and with a cap hit of 4M should be moved out if a decent defenceman is available. Glad we have Murray for atleast another year.
Proud that Cheechoo was a Sen, but he just doesn't have it anymore, effort is great, and I'm sure Jonathon is a great guy, but great guys don't equal great players unfortunately! Good Luck to Cheechoo wherever he ends up.
According to sportsnet.ca "Murray said landing a defenceman ahead of the trade deadline is his next move and waiving Cheechoo could help facilitate that once the Olympic roster freeze is lifted." And according to NHL.com's blogger, The Sens may have interest in Andy Sutton. Should be interesting to see what happens after the Olympic break!
Just saying - He's less then 50 at 49.1% which is .01% behind Spezza. There are not a lot of players above 50% at any given time and much less at 60% (3 players only right now)
I'll certainly agree that it's not his best year but historically, MCullen is a good face off guy and given his skating abilities, playmaking abilities, is truly a centreman.
But you're right. Clouston is a shifty coach and has an obsession in re-arranging his lines. We have WAY to many centremen so anything is possible.
I predict Clouston sits Regin out for a game or two. His performance has been sub par while Winchester's has been strong.
Bad move. After a questionable trade for cullen. Looks like the wheels could fall of the wagon pretty soon. Cashing in draft picks for rentals? For this team? Wow. Next thing we'll see is volchie sign for some crazy amount like 5 mil per year. Looks like very little was learned from the past deadline deals which amounted to.... absolutely nothing.
WHO ARE YOU!!!!! Unless you are willing to give us a name or handle, we would not even know who to apologize to if you do get it right.
That said SC I just came back to the site to see if things had been fixed. I still see Anons everywhere and personal attacks. Guess I will go away for another couple months to see if things get better.
That said, really sorry for Cheechoo but Cullen should help us alot more. BZ for BM. (ie well done)
Anon @ 9:55am, questionable deal???? Picard made me shit my pants every time he touched the puck. We get rid of him and his salary and pay a 2nd rounder which will be in the 50's overall for a guy that had 18 points in 25 games (3rd best in the playoffs) during the 'canes cup run.
The team is doing well and if we can bolster up our D we have a legit chance at a good run in the playoffs, small price to pay for a great rental especially considering the fact that we had two 2nd rounders.
What about a player like Cody Franson? Chirp I think you had a rumor of him being on Murray's radar earlier in the year, is that still a possibility? He's a big puck mover and is a RFA at the end of the season, so it would be some-one we could keep at a relatively cheap price next year as well.
Good, thought you'd hung up. You want me to throw in a pick, as well? You know, just for good measure? It's what Muckler did before me. Kind of as a present for doing business, you know, that kind of thing.
4th round? Nah. You'll never get anyone good with that.... how about a 2nd.
I agree I would like to see Bryan Murray get Andy Sutton could you imagine a pairing of Sutton and Carkner. I also read that on spectors hockey yesterday.
I am also hoping that Murray gets Andy Sutton.
I would like to see Murray get a package deal Andy Sutton and Trent Hunter.
ANON 1:21 - Okay I'm a little confused by your post.
First of all you're 100% right that this decision was based on his salaray alone. My point earlier was more in general how people piss and moan "he's not worth $3M, Murray screwed up" etc. In relation to this move of waiving him, it's all about salary.
But you seem to be contradicting yourself - you're saying it's all about his salary but then you say he's not earning league minimum. I won't be able to change your mind but I can pretty much guarantee that if you asked Clouston or Murray (or any of his teammates) they'd tell you the guy is FAR FROM USELESS. I can also pretty much guarantee that if he was making $1.5M he would not have been waived. You also say he's fourth line value which contradicts your "useless" assertation. I think a lot of "Cheechoo bashers" exaggerate because their mad we're paying him what we are and that he's not a 50 goal scorer any more. If he had never scored 50 and was making $1.5M I think most people would be either happy with his play or at least not so upset.
Other than the contradictions in your post (IMO) I'm not really talking about you specifically with most of this, more in general about the topic of Cheechoo.
Either some team will pick him up on re-entry or he'll be back for the playoffs.
Hax, good point about Neil not playing PK or PP. But he brings something else to the table. Physical play! He hits and will drop the gloves. That's called contributing. Cheech didn't contribute anything. Nothing at all! I ask you: what did he contribute? What? Even at $1.5 mil I still wouldn't have liked him on our team. He doesn't win faceoffs, doesn't play PP or PK, is not very physical (and when he tried he'd end up out of the play), never dropped the gloves, made awful passes, didn't help break out of the zone, etc... I can go on and on and on. He didn't bring anything to the table but apparent hard work and a smile. Not good enough for the NHL, IMO! Heck, Donovan brings more the the table and makes $600K! At least he brings speed, physical play, and kills penalties.
182 comments:
Yoikes! I have mixed emotions on this one, much like you SC I got the feeling he was due to breakout any game now... too bad for the guy he has been one of the hardest working Sens on the ice all season long. I guess with that sized paycheck though it is simple - get points or get waivered.
Best of luck to you Cheechoo Train!
Surprising move here. There has to be a buyer.
I must post this again!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GwjfUFyY6M
Go sens go
Bad move.. I liked his hard work and recent play but it had to be done with that huge contract
Ouch - I know some will LOVE this move but I just hope it doesn't hurt the team morale. Cheech was very well liked and most guys were pulling for him. I know everyone (players especially) will understand the business/hockey need for this move, but with the roll we're on I'm just wary of anything killing the mood.
GOOD! GIVE US A PICK LA!
I agree
I love cheech. I hope someone picks him up and he can his career in a steady groove. He is the ultimate team guy. SM must be happy.
Hate this move. I understand the money side of things but this one hurts.
Doubt anyone claims him.
Bingo his next stop?
I like the move, but that just confirms Murray was fleeced for Heater.
WOW!
And for all the flak I took!!
This is SWEET!!
Exactly what I SAID!!
They just better not put him on re-entry if he clears!!!
WHAT HAPPENS WITH HIM NEXT YEAR.
DO THEY HAVE TO PUT HIM ON RE-ENTRY NEXT YEAR OR WHAT HAPPENS TO HIS CONTRACT.
SC, how do you always manage to post these things before anyone else? Sportsnet, TSN, thescore, espn, etc. you were the first to post that on your twitter. Nice!
Hopefully LA will claim him.....
Cheechoo will stay. This is Murray giving another team an opportunity to claim him and JC to get a chance to play in a bigger role. If noone claims him, then he stays in Ottawa. No way Ottawa buries this guy in the minors....I'd be highly surprised...even with the addition of Cullen
SM- We don't care, get over yourself
This is a tough move and you can bet BM lost some sleep on this one. Cheechoo is a nice guy, earned his contract and then just couldn't live up to it. Simply a dollars and cents move and I wish Cheechoo all the best!!
I can't believe how much this bothers me. Good luck Cheechoo!!
-kw
Well, IF (HUGE IF) some other team has told Murray they'll claim him on re-entry then maybe it's okay. But wouldn't re-entry have to be the following day (i.e. after the freeze) or would the waive on the way down be quick on a deadline day so that they could do re-entry in an hour or two??
Still kind of a bummer, but if he's getting a shot on another NHL team it's not so bad I guess. I can see a team taking a chance on him for half his salary - but then they have him next year too don't they?
Yeah we got fleeced for Heater...
Who cares were leading the division dude, and we were far from it with Heater.
I dont get it sometimes, its not about the stars, and we have a couple anyways.
Guys, hockey is a business and this was a business move. Cheechoo makes too much money for his non-point getting. We have much character already and Cullen helps.
@SM
You don't seem to get that it's not what you said but how you said it.
This is a sad day for Cheechoo and Sens fans but it had to be expected.
-kw
Murray was not fleeced. We got Michalek and now (sort of) Cullen for Heatley. In fact, if Murray convinced Eugene to pay him off the cap (in part) then it's even more of a win for Murray than if he's on our cap the whole time.
Fail at Murray hating.
And IF someone claims him then Murray fleeced SJ on the Heatley trade (there, I said it).
The mistake all along was not pairing Cheechoo with a premiere playmaker like his old friend Tommy Chongchoo
Great team player, hard working, and great attitude. He'll be missed, but his numbers - or lack thereof - won't be.
I wish him the best.
ANON 12:15 - you make all ANONs look like jerks. If Murray can clear Cheechoo - something Wilson couldn't do - then Murray wins even more.
Murray - got rid of Dany the Douche, got Michalek for a long, well priced contract, got an extra pick he could pakage for Cullen. All he "lost" was having to hold Cheechoo for most of this year which in the end didn't prevent anything (rentals, resigning Volch etc).
Wilson - gave up a solid player (MM) and a pick for a one-dimensional, selfish douche that won't likely produce in the playoffs. His only "win" was dumping a bad contract only to have Murray do what Wilson couldn't convince SJ's owner to do.
Really, this is good timing on waiving Cheech. The "boys" have the whole olympic break to get over the sad part of a hard-worker getting waived. So the impact to morale should be minimal.
Still a bitter pill, but that's why GMs are there - to make the hard decisions for the better of the club.
Tommy Chongchoo!!! Ha ha, love it!! Not sure how Cheech gets all the love from so many. Just hope he's gone for good!!!! That $3.5m will help out in soooo many ways.
Brad - don't be so heartless. Agree with the move if you like but don't celebrate a guy getting waived.
Oh, and his cap hit is $3M.
I never had anything against Cheech. Great guy, hard working player.
But, if you're a team that's looking at making a push into the playoffs, you can't have 3 million in cap money going to a guy that doesn't produce. It's that simple, unfortunately for Cheechoo. I'm sure deep down, he himself understands this as well.
Hopefully Cheechoo can get claimed by a team that will give him more of an opportunity than we were able to here (we are simply too deep up front to fit him into the top-6, especially now with Cullen).
If he doesn't get claimed, maybe some time down in the A will help him out. Either way, this will clear a few dollars off our cap. Hopefully this is a signal of another deal coming for which we needed to clear some cap for...defenceman maybe.
But he won the accuracy competition - how do you waive a guy like that? I hope Murray gets fired for this.
(sarcasm)
Unless a trade comes... this move is pointless... guy was playing hard and good enough for a spot in the lineup!
This was a tough move but it had to be done. Cheechoo works hard but hard work alone doesn't win games or championships and at his salary, he wasn't producing enough to warrant playing him.
In his place Matt Cullen will hopefully prosper.
This also clears up cap space to re-sign Volchenkov, who's true value to this team is immeasurable.
SC, not sure I understand this whole waiver business. It goes in draft order? i.e. 30th place team gets first refusal, on down to first - if no one claims then he "clears" waivers. This puts him where then?
Is this the "one-way contract" situation where a player must clear waivers before being sent to the farm team?
After that, the option is re-entry, where I understand that the player can be claimed at half his contract value, and the Sens pick up the other half - is that correct? What is the cap implication? Does the new team take on only half the cap? Is Ottawa still on the hook for half the cap?
Finally, I assume this is usually done when someone has told the GM that they will claim him, usually on re-entry unless the player has some value (not the case with Cheech's contract).
Just trying to grasp what this move is about.
I really do feel bad for Cheechoo, and I wish him all the best.
But this had to be done.
I'm loving these moves... BM is addressing all of our weak links.
ATTA BOY Brian!!
Unlike Muckler (ex. Redden), Murray knows when he is carrying dead weight, and will try to get rid of it asap.. Please God someone pick him up, and good riddance!!
Chrisp, How can you not like this move? I agree with a lot of your posts and opinions, but your stance on Cheechoo is beyond me..
Its not just a business/money move, its a hockey move.. This guy brings his "A" game every night, but its notgood enough for the NHL.. B-I-N-G-O, and Bingo was his naaame-o!
I hate this. I love cheechoo's work ethic, just a shame about the contract is all. At a lower salary it would fit nicely.
P.S. why is only Bruce reporting this and no one else?
SC, not sure I understand this whole waiver business. It goes in draft order? i.e. 30th place team gets first refusal, on down to first - if no one claims then he "clears" waivers. This puts him where then?
Is this the "one-way contract" situation where a player must clear waivers before being sent to the farm team?
After that, the option is re-entry, where I understand that the player can be claimed at half his contract value, and the Sens pick up the other half - is that correct? What is the cap implication? Does the new team take on only half the cap? Is Ottawa still on the hook for half the cap?
Finally, I assume this is usually done when someone has told the GM that they will claim him, usually on re-entry unless the player has some value (not the case with Cheech's contract).
Just trying to grasp what this move is about.
If it means extending Volchenkov, it had to be done. But I will applaud Cheechoo everywhere he goes.
Seemed like absolutely one of the best men this team has ever had.
We also probably just lost 1000 tickets/ game from all of the first nations supporters who adore the guy, no matter if he scores or not. Wish more fans were like that around here.
Good luck Cheech... will always be a fan!
So with everyone healthy:
Michalek-Spezza-Cullen?
Foligno-Fisher-Alfie
Shannon-Regin-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
(Winnie/Donovan)
Phillips-Volchenkov
Kuba-Karlsson
Carkner-Lee
(Campoli)
I can live with that, but would rather see another D added. Kuba's been sloppy for a long while now (with the occassional good game). I think Lee's better than Campoli and really was only in Bingo due to his contract being 2-way, but if he could be our 7th D for now that would mean we're stronger for sure.
SM, please dont think all cheechoo supporters didn't think that this decision would never come. I for one knew there was a chance of him being put on waivers or something. Don't give us all the "I told you so". We all are hockey fans and understand the cap and how the NHL works. We all understand the money for Cheech is too much, but what he brings to the table is something you can't pay for, heart, determination, character and puts the team way ahead of himself. you dont seem to understand that guys like cheechoo are solid pieces to success. Stats are important but not everything and thats what you dont seem to understand. If you have anything rude to say back to me than just save it cause you still get my point. GO CHEECH GO!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope Cullen produces in the playoffs. Cheechoo wasn't producing - I'll grant that - but I think his game is the exact type of game that leads to playoff production.
I hope this has everything to do with getting Volchenkov resigned since talks are actually starting and Murray has an offer on the table. After last nights game against Ovechkin, theres no doubt in my mind that Ottawa has to sign him or trade him. My hope is for signing him.
Bob McKenzie is also reporting it, not just Bruce Garrioch
I know acquiring Cullen puts us *at* the cap pretty much, but waiving Cheech really only makes sense in one of the following situations - otherwise just scratch him we have him if someone gets hurt or shits the bed.
1) Someone's told us they'll claim him on re-entry.
2) Volch extension is coming and we need that space to fit in *next year's* cap (not sure if that works out since we have plenty of space for next year right now according to nhlnumbers.com). If this was solely to make room for Volch they could have done it in the summer.
3) Some other move is in the works that would have put us over the cap (i.e. Lee/Shannon for a D??)
Stay tuned kids - love deadline days!!!!
So is this move to fit Cullen in or something else?
Chirp have you heard of anyone picking him off waivers, LA maybe?
@Hax....I'm no hater, nor am I heartless. I'm a realist! I enjoy watching my team make great decisions. To improve now amd for the future. He's a millionaire!! Who doesn't earn what he makes. Plain and simple. Spells itself out. $3.0m-$3.5m.......tomato -tomatoe!?! As for celebrating.....I'm on top of the moon. So far today is nothing less than a day for HUGE celebration!!!
GO SENS GO!!!!!
Garrioch says he won't join the team on the road trip.
Really seems like he is done.
I feel bad for Cheech. Has a great work ethic and looks like he was well liked by the team. I have a feeling that BM has something else up his sleeve for today.
BeJamin had a good point on the other thread - if nobody claims Cheech on re-entry we have him for the playoffs. Plus he gets to keep playing in Bingo during the break and maybe gets his shiz together?
And ANON 12:39 - look at the PP when we're healthy:
Unit 1
Michalek-Spezza-Kovalev
Karlsson-Alfie (though CC likes Kuba)
Unit 2
Foligno-Fisher-Regin
Kuba-Cullen
I really like the line-up posted by anon above, but would love to see Campoli traded for a big-time rental D. Who is out there to fit the bill?
Michalek-Spezza-Cullen?
Foligno-Fisher-Alfie
Shannon-Regin-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
(Winnie/Donovan)
Phillips-Volchenkov
Kuba-Karlsson
Carkner- [rental guy]
(Lee)
Tim
Since we're posting line-ups, how about this in the playoffs if Cheech doesn't get claimed on re-entry?
Michalek-Spezza-Cheechoo
Foligno-Fisher-Alfredsson
Regin-Cullen-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
Volchenkov-Phillips
Kuba-(some D for Shannon/Lee)
Carkner-Campoli
The sens should trade for Brenden Bell. Hasn't got a chance to play in the league since putting togther a decent year in Ottawa last year. Obviously not the long term solution but could be a good fill in till Karlson gets back. Likely wouldn't cost more than a 4 or 5 rounder.
Oops - I'm anon 12:59 - meant:
Volch-Phillips
{some guy}-Karlsson
Kuba-Carkner
Another trade coming before 3.
^------ ummm I think you're missing our up and coming superstar Erik Karlsson
I love Cheechoo's positive attitude and solid work ethic, but I don't feel bad for him. He's an NHL hockey player, who makes a butt load of cash, and got to play in the NHL for 501 Games. Anyone else want to trade lives with?
Its a tough business, no doubt, but I don't feel sorry for him.
I wish him well, and hope gets his game back.
Liam
Brian Murray earlier today - "My goal from the time I was appointed to this position was to continue the proud and winning history of this organization and to make it one of the top-tier organizations in the NHL," said Murray. "I feel that we have moved this franchise into a strong position where we can challenge for the Stanley Cup each season while at the same time we're continuing to draft and develop top prospects who will help this team in the years to come." EXACTLY THE WAY TO DO IT.
OK folks, stop picking on SM and move on. He's a passionate sens fan like the rest of us.
Seemed like Cheechoo was showing a glimmer in the last couple of games. That's a lot of money for someone to play in the minors. Hope it works out for him.
any idea of what kind of offer Murray made to A-Train? hopefully long long term.
Looks like Murray is making some room for an impact d-man..
Anon @12:59pm - Umm, no, Cheechoo is done in Ottawa, so he won't have the opportunity to interfere with Spezza and Michalek trying to score goals.
I wouldn't put much stock in Garrioch saying Cheech is "finished" in Ottawa. Garrioch jumps to conclusions and has next to zero hockey knowledge. He's just a windbag with a laptop.
all the effort in the world doesn't make up for being a slow, non-scoring defensive liability. Even if he was making league minimum he would be useless. I love the guy but because of the injuries he just can't do it.
ANON 1:09 - I see you haven't watched many games this year. Especially lately - didn't Spezza score just last night with Cheechoo on his wing ... and the night before that too? Hmmm, does Michalek have a goal on that line too?
JustSayin - too true plus he missed most of trade deadline day last year with his head stuck in a buffet.
I would love to see...
Michalek-Spezza-[Trade...Penner??]
Foligno-Fisher-Alfie
Regin-Cullen-Kovalev
Ruutu-Winchester-Neil
Phillips-Volchenkov
Kuba-[Rental...Zidlicky??]
Carkner-Karlsson
Campoli
With this we would be about $235K from the cap (Cheechoo waived and Kelly, Lee, Shannon included in the deals) with both Cullen and Zidlicky UFA at the end of the season.
-kw
OK OK folks. Listen, I, like most people, like Cheechoo as a person. And I too "think" he works hard. But ask yourself this: Does it only seem like he's working hard because of his lack of skating abilities? I mean, he always looks like he's staking as fast as he can but never as fast as everyone else on the ice. If he didn't go "all out" then he'd look like an ECHL player. "Working hard" is the only thing he's got. Without it he'd have been waived 2 years ago. We can't keep players for working hard. If that were the case then I'm sure we'd find a ton of players from the minors willing to work just as hard to stay in the NHL. Hard work is not enough!
I'd be willing to bet that nobody picks him up. I'm not hating, just giving my $0.02.
jayPEG
SM I really want to punch you in the brain but I'm scared it would be difficult to find.
Cullen's contract is 2.8M. Smith is 500k. Lee is 1.2M. Acquiring and moving up that much salary meant the Sens would be over the cap in short order. We already had close to zero cap space because of all the injury call-ups this year.
Cheechoo was the only guy with a big enough contract and a small enough role. He was the logical choice to be put on waivers as much as myself and others hate it.
Reality check though SM. Players aren't payed in the playoffs. Cullen is likely just a rental. I would expect Cheechoo stays an Ottawa Senator and gets serious work in with our conditioning team over the summer and down in Bingo over the next 20 games. It will be free to call him up in the playoffs and make no mistake he will have a say in our playoffs before its all said and done. I would be absolutely shocked to see anyone pick him up at his price tag and production, and even more shocked to not see him called up the second the playoffs start.
Chongchoo!!!!! Anon 12:20, by far the funniest thing I have read in a while.
Anon 12:17, never heard of the word noone?
In all seriousness, Cheech was a victim of circumstances. At the end of the day I'm a Sens fan, not a Cheechoo fan. If his contract is in the way then so be it. If it helps the team I'm all for it. I have a hard time feeling sorry for any of these guys. He makes more than all of us combined, lives his childhood dream, treated like a star etc etc etc I'm glad he is a nice guy and hard worker, speaks well of him being a good Canadain kid. I wish him the best.
Unless you knew Cheechoo personally, then noone should be upset.. He didnt produce, his 5 goals were all "useless" goals when games were out of reach, he cant skate, his shot is very weak.
remember Gerber?? he was a great team player, super nice guy, tried his best, but couldnt live up to the hype, and 95% of the fans drove him out of the city.. now all these fans are here supporting Cheechoo for being just as bad, if not worse.. I dont get it!! Where was this support for Gerber last year??
If you like Cheechoo cuz of his grittiness and hard work, then we have Donovan, Winchester, Ruutu, Neil, the list goes on.. I dont even think the KHL will want him!
Anyways, he had his chances, he played 60 games and did diddly-squat.. he sucked, plain and simple.. goodbye!
I feel bad for Cheechoo. This was not my first choice to see Murray do that waive Cheechoo.
I think Murray is going to trade for another defencemen.
I would like to see Murray get one of Kim Johnnnson or Andy Sutton or Curtis Foster.
I also good part about waiving Cheechoo opens up space to resign Volchenkov and to trade for a rfa next summer.
I would like to see Murray trade for Andrew Ladd this summer.
Well it's unfortunate things didn't work out for Cheechoo here. I was really hoping he would become a 20 goal scorer here but if anything he seems to have regressed. The problem is that he brought literally nothing to the table other than his work ethic/heart. He blew every scoring opportunity he ever got his hands on, he's slow and we can't use him to kill penalties. So while he seems like a nice enough guy, for $3 million this move made a lot of sense. I'm just hoping something can be done to strengthen the defense a bit. I think if people view this move as something that can help sign Volchenkov, I don't see how anyone could possible be upset.
Basically Cheechoo was Bill Muckalt only sucking up $3 million of our cap that could be better spent elsewhere.
ANON 1:09:
Cheech was on the ice for Spezza's first goal last night.
Cheech was on the ice for Michalek's goal last night.
Cheech had primary assist on Spezza's game winner against Calgary.
Seems to be doing an okay job of not getting in the way.
Wow. Why do so many people hate this move. We were pouring 3 mil into a player who didn't really have a role. He doesn't have the scoring touch, he doesn't skate well at all and he's not a sound defensive player. Sure he works hard but he hasn't been earning that contract. That's a lot of money to be putting towards dead weight. Also, the Cullen deal very well could have put Ottawa over the cap altogether making it a crucial move. Personally I think it's a great move that I've been awaiting for a very long time. Does anyone think that Cheechoo brings anything to the table that Donovan or Winchester wouldn't for a fraction of the price. Give those guys a chance to play and contribute.
I really liked Cheechoo's work ethic and I was hoping as much as anyone that he would find his touch again. Unfortunately he didn't and Murray had to make a professional decision. Good luck Cheech.
I think this is a bad move.
The bottom line is that the team is winning. For whatever reason, a team that looks average on paper, is getting it done on the ice.
I don't think you should mess with that. That group of guys have come together as a group and are doing the job.
You can tell that Cheech has a positive presence with the guys. He was not producing to expectations, but he was part of the success.
On paper, Cullen is better than Cheech. But, when you add him to the mix, and remove Cheech from the mix, you'll get a different cocktail.
I'm not convinced that things will be much better.
It's Ottawa's 2nd so that kind of sucks!
Doubt they'll buy him out. Don't think they'll want the cap hit for another 2 years, even at half price. I suspect that either; 1) Murray knows there is a team that will pick him off of waivers, either now or through re-entry; 2) Murray and Melnyk have talked and Eugene is willing to foot the bill of a $3mil player in the minors for another year, to get him off the cap. They'll be paying him regardless, if Eugene will front the money then they're better off with him in the minors and the space on the cap.
I feel bad for the guy, I do think he worked hard every night. However, it's a results driven business, and no one can argue that the results simply weren't there. I hope someone grabs him so he can continue his NHL career.
Only question I have about this is what are the NHL rules. I think it's 23-man roster but I'm not certain. How many guys are we currently carrying.
If we have the roster spot open I'd be surprised not to see him called up for the last game of the season so we have him throughout the playoffs.
Also lets point something out here. Cullen was playing top six minutes in Carolina and 1st unit PP time. He has 40 points in 60 games.
Cheechoo has 15 points in 60 games. Has had almost zero time in the top six forward and zero time on the 1st PP. I expect he would have at least 30 points if he was playing the same role Cullen is. Just some food for thought.
Cullen will be 10X better than Cheechoo.
Man really, everyone who says Cheech was "useless" really is not paying attention. Yes he wasn't finishing. Yes he's lost a step.
But if you know ANYTHING about hockey and WATCH THE F'N GAMES you will have seen that he's positionally very solid, great on the boards, creating some space and chances (though yes, not finishing like we'd like) and almost never the goat on a goal.
That all adds up to solid 3rd liner and yes, he's totally overpaid for that - but we didn't sign him to that contract.
He's waived because Wilson signed him to a bloated contract and then we got stuck with it to get rid of Dany. If he was making Ruutu money he'd still be on the team and we'd all love him.
IMO, Cheech on waivers is setting up for another D-man.
I'm hearing Kelly and Shannon for a D-man who can play top 4.
I'm hearing that from the voices in my head.
Anon @ 1:22
How dare you besmirch the good name of "Battlin'" Bill Muckalt. His 8 assists did more for us in that season than goals ever could. we would have never been inspired to play so well against Philly were it not for his contributions that year. We all talk about the Spezza pick and arrival of Big Z but the cornerstone of our 2001 year was Big Battlin' Bill Muckalt
sum young guy
I would love PENNER
Bottom line is Murray didn't want him but had to take him in the Heatley deal. He doesn't fit on Murray's team and I think the plan all along was to try to trade/waive/buy him out.
I liked the guy too but his salary vs. production made him not fit into our puzzle.
Makes perfect sense to me for salary cap reasons too.
There may not be a D-man coming folks.
Two games against middle-of-the-road teams before the break. Then Karlsson is back and Campoli is back (but scratched). I've always thought Lee was better than Campoli/Picard - especially when playing third pairing with Carkner. In fact, I've always thought Murray was pretty much planning to bring Lee up when the cap relief was not needed (that's the only reason he's in Bingo to begin with).
Volch-Phillips
Kuba-Karlsson
Carkner-Lee
(Campoli)
Not amazing, but not scary either.
Anon@1:13 - 1:09 here again - Michalek and Spezza both scored last night. Did Cheechoo do much on either goal to help? Or, put another way - did he contribute anything to either play that ANY NHL player with a pulse couldn't have done?
I agree with everyone who thinks Cheechoo is a nice guy. Ultimately, not the point - his level of play doesn't belong in the NHL any more.
Interesting CBA question though - is it even possible to load up on salary at the deadline, dump enough players in the minors to be under cap, and then recall all of your salary come playoffs from the minors to have a stacked playoff team? It would seem to be a bit of a loophole. I'd be curious to know whether it would in theory be feasible or not.
People, trying hard is the minimum expected of an NHL player. Cheechoo was terrible last night. He was benched for most of the 3rd period. Semin was his cover on 2 of the goals, he had a reasonable opportunity to block 2 shots and he did nothing. I think the last straw was when one of the Caps was pushing around Michalek(remember, our top scorer) and Cheechoo refused to step in and protect him. It was Spezza who stepped in. I was mad as hell for that and I do not recall seeing him on the ice again. He may have been a nice guy buthe has forgotten how to play.
that's a shame... i liked his last couple of games.
Excellent move!!
We're going for the cup THIS YEAR!
Good move, he has the worst +/- on the team and makes a good amount of money but doesn't produce
As far as I understand it, here is the waiver process. If another team claims Cheech on waivers, they pick up his salary and cap hit. If a team picks him up during re-entry, both teams split the cap and the salary. If the Sens try to bring him up during the playoffs, the above is still valid.
Question though: If he clears waivers and is assigned to the AHL, do the Sens gain back the cap (pro-rated of coarse)?
I feel for Cheechoo since I always think he is just about to catch-fire. Guess Murray thinks he has flamed out.
Go Sens!
Watch out Mr. Murray...
There is chemistry in the group,
dont break it...
I'm going to back up what SM said, not how he said it. Most of us agreed that, despite his work ethic, Cheechoo was done. No finish, can't skate, defensive liability, slow as molasses. We're making a cup run, that's what Murray is saying.
Honestly
Cheechoo gone (solely for the contract) + Picard gone (for EVERYTHING about his game)
And we get cullen? I'm thrilled as a Sens fan.
BTW, if Cheechoo is such a great guy and a team player...why don't we just restructure his contract? Can we do that? I'll take him if he'll take 1.5mil or so.
Cheechoo's hardly Bill Muckalt. Muckalt just couldn't hack it, while Cheechoo's had a hard time trying to heal from two serious groin injuries that have clearly devastated his skating. But he's been relatively healthy all year, hopefully he can work on his skating and conditioning in the off season and will be more effective next year. With a little more luck he'd already have 10 goals this year; not nearly enough, yes, but that kind of pace would put him within striking distance of 20 for a full season next year.
I really like Cheechoo and his strong effort he puts in every night. but unfortunately he's caught in a numbers game and he's on the shit end of the stick.. I love the cullen trade, now we really do have 2 solid top lines, he's got skill, smarts and he's been to the big dance before... The Inside Man is saying that Ottawa's talks with nashville in reguards to Hamhuis are heating up.. and he speculates that Hamhuis will finnish the season in Ottawa!!! That would put us over the top!!! i havnt been this excited in a while. Murray also said he has no plans in trading Volchenkov. but wants to work hard to resign him.. after last nights game i would agree
I think we all feel bad for Cheechoo, it is hard becase he tryed so hard. I hope the team does not take it is hard.
I can understanding liking a particular player but this move isn't "wrong" by any means
1. Work Ethic: He isn't the only senator that works hard.
With a few notable exceptions *COUGH KUBA COUGH* almost the entire senators roster is hard working, get in there players
2. Ice Time: Except for recently and a few random stints
Cheechoo plays most of his games somewhere in the third line and not often on special teams
3. Roster Spot: He is taking up a now valuable spot on the roster with Cullen in
With too many players he is looking the odd man out
4. Finances: With a cap hit of 3 a mil.# less then fisher and about a mil more then Kelly
he just has too big a footprint
5. Volchenkov: You want to keep him? need to make room
6. Production: Work Ethic is meaningless without production
5g9a, a point less then Neil and two more then volchenkov just isn't good
7. Skillset: He is a shooter and former 50goaler, Alfie: 119 SOG, Cheech: 117
He is getting chances... he just can't do it
finished in Ottawa - if only that applied to Garrioch
who the hell is saying they want penner? lol... pretty a forward is the last thing our minds at this point DERRRRRRRRRR.... another typical useless poster. here comes a defensman my friends
Ottawa Senators having increased dialog with the Preds in recent days. Speculation remains high that Hamhuis could finish the season in Ottawa. Alternatively Sheldon Brookbank has also been linked with the Senators *** Senators Trade Alex Picard and a 2nd for Matt Cullen**** looks even more likely that a defensive move is on the horizon.
Via Insideman
wow now with Lee and Smith called up, we are working with 3 rookie defense since Carkner is also in his first year.
We're going to need another veteran d-man if we want to make a cup run.
Or can a team whose defense consists of 50% rookies get there?
...got my doubts on that...
Hey Hax, take it easy. I DO WATCH EVERY F'N GAME! And my assessment of Cheechoo is this: Seems to be working hard but doesn't actually contribute. For someone to be a solid 3rd liner they should either play the PP or PK. Cheechoo did neither, probably because of his skating. While he may have been positionally sound 5 on 5, 90% of the time he was the reason our cycle broke down. He never had the foot speed to keep up with a play.
Even if he cost the same as Ruutu I sill wouldn't like him as a 3rd line player. If you don't contribute 5 on 5 then you have to do something on the PP or PK.
jayPEG
Phillips- Volchenkov
Kuba- Carkner
Campoli- Lee
(Karlsson)
If we can move Lee to get a vetern Defenceman than that is what needs to be done. I dont see us going far in the playoffs with 4 young guys on our blueline playing in their first NHL Playoffs. Carkners size will help him shut down the other teams up close but his speed could be a liability.
anyone know how Lee was performing in Bingo? hope he comes back with a good attitude and fresh wheels...
I like the 'ding fries are done' guy from the BK spoof but that doesnt mean he deserves a roster spot on a contending NHL team.
Well said jayPEG, couldn't put it any better.
To quote Bush: Speed kills.
And I watch every game too. I can't remember the last time Cheechoo actually impressed me at a level the rest of you seem to be...I again look for production, heart is great, but this whole team is heart. And production. Murray knows this, which is why our two greatest liabilities in our zone are now gone.
Ironically the other day I was thinking Comrie for a 3rd time might be a real possibility. Just back from injury and plenty of skill to add to the second PP. Not to mention a dirt cheap contract.
Any Sutton coming to Ottawa
6 feet 6...250 pounds....wow
@Anon 1:38: To answer your question, yes it is possible. When you put a player who is on a one way contract (obviously he has to be put on waivers first) in the AHL his salary no longer counts against the cap. Once the season is over and that time period just before the playoffs you can call up as many players as you want. Most teams will do this but scratch them because they only need them in case of injury.
If you look at Calgary last year, they had to play a few men short on their bench for the last game otherwise they would've been over the cap. But they iced a full roster for the playoffs. This is because there is no salary cap for the playoffs because the players are not paid during that time.
This is maybe why some players don't show up in the playoffs. Remember Yashin?
So basically if Cheechoo is put in the minors for the remainder of the season, once the season is over we can call him up to be in the line up for the playoffs.
Rizzo,
Unfortunately no, you can not restructure a contract under the CBA. I wish we could too.
Saw Cam Barker's picture on the TSN front page, tripped out... could it be, Murray resigns, waives Cheechoo, dumps Picard for Cullen, and acquires a solid Dman...
but no... went to Minnesota... the deal looks dumb to me... Minnesota aint doing any noise this year, and Chicago trades one of their top 4... why, their already solid enough to win.
Booo
Call me crazy but I think Ottawa should try and trade for Pavel Kubina? He's a UFA at the end of the year and has won a Stanley Cup. I know he was a Leaf and people will freak out because of that but we need some depth on the blueline. He can be a difference maker, especially on the PP.
The defencemen I would like to see Murray get is Andy Sutton.
I don't think it would take much for Murray to get Sutton.
Also Andy Sutton is a big guy 6'6 also if Murray is able to get Sutton I would like to see a pairing of Andy Sutton and Carkner.
I read and heard that Murray is looking still to add.
I read and heard that Murray may still try to get a defencemen and another foward.
Maybe Murray may try to add two defencemen.
Sooooo...
3PM on February 12th has come and gone, does that mean we aren't getting a D?
???
"In-house" solution is what we're looking at i guess?
Bull ... Cheecho can't be put on waivers! ,,, He's doing great
Who is this InsideMan?
Patrick........freeze is lifted after the Olympics. Then actual trade deadline day is in effect. March 3rd or something.
Well this is only a soft deadline, I expect Murray will be looking to add some defensive depth at the real deadline. In the meantime we only have 2 games to go before the Olympic break and then Karlsson and Campoli will be a lot closer to being back, and Foligno.
Patrick - This deadline is only for the Olympics. Trades can still happen after the Olympics until the traditional deadline.
The SensChirp comment record is being absolutely shattered today!
Three major moves in Senators land really have people talking.
Nicely done everyone!
Does anyone else wonder if Barker, Burns or Zidlicky will be a Senator after the deadline? Minni already has Zidlicky, Schultz, Hnidy, Burns, Zanon, Scott and now Barker.
They were also rumoured to be interested in Lee. Maybe this is Lee's audition in the next few games...
To anon @ 4:08: I was thinking the same thing. But I don't see them giving any of them up for just Lee. They gave up last year's 1st round pick and Johnsson for Barker. We'd have to give up some talent up front as well as Lee to get Barker, Burns or Zidlicky (only ones worth getting!) . I don't think it's gonna happen. Too bad though!
4:08 - I'm thinking the same. Maybe Barker was picked up as an asset by Minnesota for a later trade with the sens for Lee +. They did offload their premier D-man though so its probably unlikely.
After watching Semin prance around the sens end of the ice last night I was thinking that the sens need a d-man with a shot from the point (I know I keep repeating myself) but that can also deliver the occasional borderline bone crunching hit that keeps those types of players looking over their shoulder.
Volchenkov can hit but he's too clean.
What do you think the lines will be for tomorrow?
BM said in his interview on TSN.ca he likes how Cullen can play the wing, or Center and how he is good on the PK. My guess is that T1000 goes with something like this for lines.
Michalek-Spezza-Kovalev
Cullen-Fisher-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Soooo Chirp, when age grouping do YOU fall under?
I think that putting Cheechoo in the minors now may work out well for us. I doubt anyone is going to take him, and we'll just bring him back up at the end of the year to join us for the playoff run. Seems like the intelligent way to go to me.
One question though. You can call a player up without putting them on re-entry waivers right? I don't think you "have" to put a guy on re-entry waivers in order to get him back up to the NHL it's just something teams do to eat half a salary and get rid of someone. Meaning we can call up Cheechoo at the end of the year for the playoffs without risking another team stealing him and having only a 1.5M price tag on his contract right?
I like the idea of Sutton, I like the idea of Zidlicky more....but I don't think anyone should forget about Wisnewski as a possibility either. He's a 25 year old who may not have the size of Sutton, but I think he is a little more fleet of foot, better offensive upside etc..just a thought.
I agree the most likely next move is acquiring a Dman, but I wouldn't completely rule out another forward as well (despite the depth we have and the depth we'll have when Foligno returns)
There is no cap in the playoffs. The team will actually have most of the prospects up and with the team once the playoffs start. It's a good way for the young prospects to experience the atmosphere of a playoff run.
No BeJamin, you have to put him on re-entry.
where does foligno fit in when he gets back? Whos out?
Just heads up to everyone who may not know...The B-Sens will be playing Syracuse in the 1st AHL Outdoor game in Syracuse on Feb. 20th. Should be an awesome game and a lot of fun. They have a skydiver dropping in to deliver the opening face off..Pretty cool. I believe they still have tickets available
Yeah, I knew this was a freeze, not a deadline. I was still hoping for a D. Are we not short a D until injuries are over?
James B - Winchester is out - just as he would have been if Cheech was still on the roster and Cullen never joined the team.
I am not seeing anything else about Cheechoo being waived, not even on the sens website. Are you sure about this SC?
If Murray is planning to add a top 4 D then that guy is (likely) going to carry a cap hit. So he's better off adding him right at the deadline. So if you're hoping for a D (like I am) then don't panic yet.
Yea Bob McKenzie and Bruce Garrioch both reported it earlier today.
Patrick - our D line up like this for the next two games:
Volch-Phillips
Kuba-Carkner
Lee-D Smith
Assume minimal minutes for the bottom pairing (thankfully we're playing two non-playoff teams)
Waiving Cheech isn't exactly a feel good story they'd put on the Sens website.
Anon 5:58, it's on tsn...
can u imagine barker in a sens uniform...yowza.
can't see them making it work though.
course if Murray pulls it off, i'll get a pic of Murray tatooed on my arm..
Andrew
If someone claims Cheechoo on re-entry, that's not "stealing" - that's doing us the enormous favour of turning $3M wasted dollars into $1.5M wasted dollars.
I honestly, for the life of me, cannot figure out how the player we got in the context of "If you want Michalek in exchange for solving your Heatley problem, you have to eat this washed-up guy's $3M" has become such a fan favourite, when he has produced exactly nothing for Ottawa, ever.
I understand that he's a nice guy, and I too like it when nice things happen to nice people. But let's face it - he'll make $10M over this contract, and that's pretty nice. Now I'd like him to go far, far away from the Sens lineup, to somewhere that thinking Ottawa fans who enjoy skilled play no longer have to watch him floundering around ineffectively.
Haha sensfan56, your anon comments can easily be picked out due to the fact that you can only express one thought per sentence, and all you ever have to say is what you'd like to see us get. Usually involving andrew ladd or colby armstrong. Does anyone else notice this? for examples, see "Anon" 3:40 and 3:44pm, for a flawless example of his one thought per sentence method. I do agree that andy sutton could be a good filler, though.
To whoever mentioned wisnewski, come back down to earth. The ducks aren't going to be trading any young D men away, wisnewski is part of the GREAT core they have going forward, and they'll need him when Nieder retires. Besides, the ducks have been turning around their season for like a month and a half now.
Cheechoo is waived, Players being waived doesn't usually get advertised overtly because its sort of a sore subject for the guy being waived.
ya wut about foligno lol i forgot about him. whos gonna get cuts when he comes back something has to be in the works
I feel for Cheechoo, definitely not his fault, the injuries he sustained during his time in SanJose has had a major impact. Watching him play in his short-lived prime I must say the guy was awesome. He definitely tried his hardest and I'll always be a fan. Hopefully he can rebound but I think it will be tough for him.
Cheechoo being waived is also being reported by The Ottawa Citizen.
I was really hoping that Cheechoo would return to his old form when San Jose "dumped" him on us. I loved his game in game out intensity and puck pursuit. He worked hard every shift I believe he was a very positive role model on our team. I'm not sure where he'll end up for the remainder of the year but I wish him all the best!
Picard, felt comfortable with you in the offensive zone most of the time but was very nervous watching you in the defensive zone. Best wishes in Cane country.
Cullen, welcome to O-town! I've always loved your style of play and I can't wait to see you in a Sens jersey!
GO SENS GO!!!
This move was made to take a shot at a decent number 3 or number 4 defenseman in the depth chart before March 3rd.
What do they cost - 3 or 4 million
Business is business unfortunately.
I really liked Cheech, and was pulling for him to score a few more times.
-KJ
Joe, that B-Sens is going to be pretty cool. I've been to the fairgrounds for dirt week a couple of times and the stands should provide a good view of the ice. Unfortunately can't make it but anyone who has time should. Syracuse is not that far and there are a couple of good places to eat - can't remember the names of any of them.
Form my sources....
Sens are getting Grebeshkov for Lee and Obrien.
Book it!
Cullen is a natural centreman who is good in the face off circle. Those that have him playing on the wing obviously don't know the player.
Huge pick up by Murray. I'm sure it wasn't easy to let Cheechoo go, but people need to give Murray credit for making the tough decision in the name of winning.
Good luck to Cheechoo wherever he ends up. He didn't put up the numbers that Heatley did, but he clearly has more honour.
When will the organization give Mike Brodeur a chance?
Mat - Cullen is less than 50% this year on draws. Your point is still valid as he's likely lining up at center but combine less-than-stellar face off numbers with Clouston's penchant for mixing and matching to get chemistry and Cullen could just as easily end up on the wing.
Definitely the darker side of the business. Not really any choice for Murray with Cullen's $2.8M coming our way, but it's really hard to see him go. Really nice guy, really hard worker, but just could not find his scoring groove. I saw him robbed of a goal atleast 5 times this season. Hockey Gods just seem to hate this guy.
jayPEG - my issue was with people who say Cheechoo is *useless*. He's far from it. Not sure I agree with you that a third liner has to play PK or PP - I would call Neil a solid third liner and he does neither (usually).
But hey, if you don't think he's good enough to help the team that's your opinion. Or if you feel he "breaks the cycle" that's your opinion too - can't say I agree. I just think that he does/did/can help the team.
I totally get that he's not worth $3M but we didn't sign him for that. People that keep citing his salary are spinning their wheels since it's not relevant to his play.
I'm not saying I'm RIGHT and people who don't think he should be on the team are WRONG - just different points.
But I maintain that anyone who goes so far to say that he's USELESS is not that smart as he's "serviceable" at worst.
@Anon 8:02
I could have sworn I saw the EXACT same post (with different players) somewhere before...
Let me try!
Form my sources....
Sens are getting Weber for Campoli and a 7th rounder.
Book it!
Nice, dude. Really.
Ah duh, akkording to my sources, we're getting:
Gretzky for Shannon + a 7th rounder
BOOK IT!!!!! DUH!!
Sufferin suckatash, good trade Murray!
I think Murray might have been planning to give Cheechoo more time when he was acquired. Now suddendly he finds himself at the trade deadline as a contender that needs to be upgraded going into the playoffs - a nice problem to have. Sucks for Cheechoo who sounds like a class act and a good person to have around.
That said, I'd be disappointed if we didn't make more a splash on defence than the Cullen move is in the forward ranks. We need a D-man a lot more than we needed a top 6 forward.
Hax, the whole point of him being waived is his salary. It makes no difference who signed the contract, it makes a difference who's paying it and who has it on their cap. This decision was 100% about his salary and the cap, it's not the fact he hasn't earned his salary. He wouldn't be earning his salary even if he made league minimum (sorry, but he's useless, if you can name a single thing he does that provides value to this team I would love to hear it). All that matters is the cap space he was taking up, if he earned less this wouldn't have been an issue for management. So people citing his salary aren't spinning their wheels, rather, this is the whole point of the waive. If he made less they wouldn't have needed to, or if he produced more this wouldn't be a discussion. But management knows no one will claim a guy making second line money and playing fourth line value, so it makes sense to clear salary for someone who will.
I don't understand the love for this guy. I think more than anything people don't like Cheechoo, they just want to like Cheechoo. They want him to be good, they want him to make the Heatley trade better because right now it sucks. I don't blame Murray, he did what he had to, but people really wanted Cheechoo to do well not because he was a nice guy but because we wanted that trade to be as good for us as possible. We've had tonnes of nice guys go through this organization that got half the admiration Cheechoo gets and he does less than almost anyone I can think of in recent years, yet people are upset and bothered by this whole situation. But it's not for him it's for the trade.
Cullen - Spezza - Alfie
Michalek - Fisher - Kovalev
Winchester - Regin - Shannon
Ruutu - Kelly - Neil
Those are some pretty dirty forwards lines. Replace Winchester with Foligno when he returns and I think the forwards are probably the best twelve in the league (bold statement i know). The defense I think still needs work. Kuba has never really impressed me and with a cap hit of 4M should be moved out if a decent defenceman is available. Glad we have Murray for atleast another year.
They're after a defenceman who can transition the puck; the trouble is almost every other team is looking for this.
Good bye Johnny CheeChoo, too bad we couldn't line up Jordan TooToo for more inuit content.
Proud that Cheechoo was a Sen, but he just doesn't have it anymore, effort is great, and I'm sure Jonathon is a great guy, but great guys don't equal great players unfortunately! Good Luck to Cheechoo wherever he ends up.
Guys,
I don't appreciate you dissin' my sources, I just want to share information with guys on SC's fine site!
When this happens before march 3rd, you will all be apologizing to me!
Book it!
According to sportsnet.ca "Murray said landing a defenceman ahead of the trade deadline is his next move and waiving Cheechoo could help facilitate that once the Olympic roster freeze is lifted." And according to NHL.com's blogger, The Sens may have interest in Andy Sutton. Should be interesting to see what happens after the Olympic break!
Just saying - He's less then 50 at 49.1% which is .01% behind Spezza. There are not a lot of players above 50% at any given time and much less at 60% (3 players only right now)
I'll certainly agree that it's not his best year but historically, MCullen is a good face off guy and given his skating abilities, playmaking abilities, is truly a centreman.
But you're right. Clouston is a shifty coach and has an obsession in re-arranging his lines. We have WAY to many centremen so anything is possible.
I predict Clouston sits Regin out for a game or two. His performance has been sub par while Winchester's has been strong.
Exciting times, exciting times...
On an unrelated topic, did anyone else feel distrubed when they showed on the news the accident that cost the Georgia luger his life?
Fuck man. Some things don't need to be televised...
Bad move. After a questionable trade for cullen. Looks like the wheels could fall of the wagon pretty soon. Cashing in draft picks for rentals? For this team? Wow. Next thing we'll see is volchie sign for some crazy amount like 5 mil per year. Looks like very little was learned from the past deadline deals which amounted to.... absolutely nothing.
Anon 8:48
WHO ARE YOU!!!!!
Unless you are willing to give us a name or handle, we would not even know who to apologize to if you do get it right.
That said SC I just came back to the site to see if things had been fixed. I still see Anons everywhere and personal attacks. Guess I will go away for another couple months to see if things get better.
That said, really sorry for Cheechoo but Cullen should help us alot more. BZ for BM. (ie well done)
By for another while.....
So since everything went down yesterday I've read rumors of Murray looking at Dman:
Hamhuis, Brookbank, Ballard, Zidlicky, Robidas or Sutton.
Chirp out of these names have you heard anything similar?
Anon @ 9:55am, questionable deal???? Picard made me shit my pants every time he touched the puck. We get rid of him and his salary and pay a 2nd rounder which will be in the 50's overall for a guy that had 18 points in 25 games (3rd best in the playoffs) during the 'canes cup run.
The team is doing well and if we can bolster up our D we have a legit chance at a good run in the playoffs, small price to pay for a great rental especially considering the fact that we had two 2nd rounders.
What about a player like Cody Franson? Chirp I think you had a rumor of him being on Murray's radar earlier in the year, is that still a possibility? He's a big puck mover and is a RFA at the end of the season, so it would be some-one we could keep at a relatively cheap price next year as well.
Who?
Picard? Sure. Yeah, I'll do it for Picard.
Yes, done deal. I'll send it in to the league.
Nice doing business with you.
Okay bye.
Oh, HEY HEY HEY YOU STILL THERE?
Good, thought you'd hung up. You want me to throw in a pick, as well? You know, just for good measure? It's what Muckler did before me. Kind of as a present for doing business, you know, that kind of thing.
4th round? Nah. You'll never get anyone good with that.... how about a 2nd.
No, no, ours will be higher.
No, thank YOU!
Anon 9:30 am
I agree I would like to see Bryan Murray get Andy Sutton could you imagine a pairing of Sutton and Carkner. I also read that on spectors hockey yesterday.
I am also hoping that Murray gets Andy Sutton.
I would like to see Murray get a package deal Andy Sutton and Trent Hunter.
Anon 8:48 am
You are making it up I don't believe you why would you tell people this!
ANON 1:21 - Okay I'm a little confused by your post.
First of all you're 100% right that this decision was based on his salaray alone. My point earlier was more in general how people piss and moan "he's not worth $3M, Murray screwed up" etc. In relation to this move of waiving him, it's all about salary.
But you seem to be contradicting yourself - you're saying it's all about his salary but then you say he's not earning league minimum. I won't be able to change your mind but I can pretty much guarantee that if you asked Clouston or Murray (or any of his teammates) they'd tell you the guy is FAR FROM USELESS. I can also pretty much guarantee that if he was making $1.5M he would not have been waived. You also say he's fourth line value which contradicts your "useless" assertation. I think a lot of "Cheechoo bashers" exaggerate because their mad we're paying him what we are and that he's not a 50 goal scorer any more. If he had never scored 50 and was making $1.5M I think most people would be either happy with his play or at least not so upset.
Other than the contradictions in your post (IMO) I'm not really talking about you specifically with most of this, more in general about the topic of Cheechoo.
Either some team will pick him up on re-entry or he'll be back for the playoffs.
Hax, good point about Neil not playing PK or PP. But he brings something else to the table. Physical play! He hits and will drop the gloves. That's called contributing. Cheech didn't contribute anything. Nothing at all! I ask you: what did he contribute? What? Even at $1.5 mil I still wouldn't have liked him on our team. He doesn't win faceoffs, doesn't play PP or PK, is not very physical (and when he tried he'd end up out of the play), never dropped the gloves, made awful passes, didn't help break out of the zone, etc... I can go on and on and on. He didn't bring anything to the table but apparent hard work and a smile. Not good enough for the NHL, IMO! Heck, Donovan brings more the the table and makes $600K! At least he brings speed, physical play, and kills penalties.
jayPEG
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