Canadian Hockey Teams in the Offseason

With the Canadian hockey teams buying and selling in the offseason, different teams look to do certain things. This report will analyze each team's decisions and the direction it's heading.

Montreal Canadians - Bob Gainey has $14 Million in salary room but also needs to take care of 5 restricted free agents (Hlak, Kostitsyn), etc.. Clearly, with the bid for Mats Sundin, Gainey is looking for a first line forward or center. The team believes that its core players will be strong enough to make another strong run ot the Stanley Cup playoffs and does not look to make many new changes. Several options for the Canadiens include Marian Hossa, Brian Rolston, and Brian Malone.

Ottawa Senators - Brian Murray will most likely be busy this offseason. Wade Redden, Brian McGratton, and Ray Emery are gone and Murray has plenty of money. The team plans to execute one of the biggest overhauls in team history. With plenty of unrestricted free agents (Sean Donovan, Luke Richardson, Mike Commodore, Corey Stillman, etc.) Murray has plenty of options, but he needs to find plenty of players who will most likely leave Ottawa.

Vancouver Canucks - 17 players signed. Over $20 million in cap room. They need everything - from forwards to defense. Not enough depth in all positions except in net (Roberto Luongo). Unrestricted free agents, Morrison and Naslund, both may not return to Vancouver. The Sedin twins, will also want larger contracts and extensions. Several options include Pavol Demitra, Marian Hossa, Brian Campbell, and Ryan Malone for Mike McGillis.

Toronto Maple Leafs - Don't look for the Buds to be making any huge moves this year, but look for plenty of smaller changes. Though Fletcher has hinted that he is unafraid to purchase high-priced players, it is unlikely. Fletcher will most likely try and obtain some grit on the blueline, a back-up goaltender, and some 3rd and 4th line forwards. Because Fletcher is not a permanent GM, and may be replaced in the next year, large signings will most likely occur after the Buds have a permanent GM. For now, Fletcher will attempt to obtain low salary, players that can potentially support a stronger cast in the future. Look for Fletcher to get 26-30 yr old free agents that will still be around in 4 years for a potential Stanley Cup run.

Oilers - 2 needs: a top forward, and physical presence. For the forward, Ryan Malone provides both, but the Oilers will most likely be outbidded as the price of Malone goes up. Look for the Oilers to make little changes with a few additions. They have yet to sign unrestricted free agents Pitkanen and Stoll. But manager Kevin Lowe feels comfortable with his current lineup and roster, and does not feel the need to make many changes.

Calgary Flames - Daryl Sutter has signed 4 potential unrestricted free agents. Come July 1st, however, the players 'will be given a chance to play'. With the recent 'youth movement' (Nystrom, Makelaine - I do not know how to spell them), Sutter may sign Nolan (he has already signed Conroy) to foster the youth movement.