The Defence Thread - Discussion, Speculation, and Pairings

[Demetric]

I would not be surprised if we have seen the last game Smid ever plays. I think either LTR till end of contract or he retires due to injuries.

that leaves Gio, Brodie, Hamilton, Wideman, Englland and Jokipakka

I would reup Nakaladal to round out the 7 defensive spots.

Now if can move Wideman or Englland, I would like to bring back Schlemko

[edslunch]

Smid on LTIR is wishful thinking. People thought he was done before this season but he wasn't, so I'll believe it when I see it. My prediction is we have the same defense plus Kevin next season until major injury or trade deadline

[Imported_Aussie]

Originally Posted by Duke43

Can Nakladal be sent to the AHL when Wideman (he who skates too long in one spot) returns. Thought that I read or heard yesterday that he could not be returned. Just asking!

he can be, but since he was not on the AHL roster at trade deadline, would be ineligible for playoffs.
With there being no roster limit on the NHL roster anymore, the only reason to demote him would be if he played so bad that your only option was to call up an AHL guy and then that left the AHL team shorthanded - not a likely scenario

[druetetective]

This thread needs more Kulak.

I truly believe he is our bottom pairing defenceman of the future. not Wotherspoon. He played much better at training camp and simply has better tools IMO.

The reason he was called up 1st is to see what they have since he is approaching waiver eligibility next season IMO.

BT mentioned Kulak as one of three prospects he is happy with this year. (Not to say he is disappointed with the rest)

[Enoch Root]

Originally Posted by druetetective

This thread needs more Kulak.

I truly believe he is our bottom pairing defenceman of the future. not Wotherspoon. He played much better at training camp and simply has better tools IMO.

The reason he was called up 1st is to see what they have since he is approaching waiver eligibility next season IMO.

BT mentioned Kulak as one of three prospects he is happy with this year. (Not to say he is disappointed with the rest)

Kulak has more offensive/transitional skills and is probably a better skater.

Wotherspoon is better defensively and is more mature/poised/reliable.

They are both solid prospects, but with different skill sets. There might be room for both (if they keep progressing).

[SeanCharles]

Originally Posted by druetetective

This thread needs more Kulak.

I truly believe he is our bottom pairing defenceman of the future. not Wotherspoon. He played much better at training camp and simply has better tools IMO.

The reason he was called up 1st is to see what they have since he is approaching waiver eligibility next season IMO.

BT mentioned Kulak as one of three prospects he is happy with this year. (Not to say he is disappointed with the rest)

I wonder who the other 2 are?