The Capitals' Deep Depth in Goal
by J.P. on Dec 28, 2009 9:30 AM EST
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Print"We're really pleased that we've drafted some good young goalies. To now talk about trading them doesn't make any sense. We'll take our time and develop these guys. We'll see what they're capable of doing and make some decisions down the road. It sure is nice to have young goalies in the system." - George McPhee
That the Capitals have tremendous depth of young talent in goal is no secret, but that doesn't make it any less fun to marvel at some of the numbers the team's top trio is putting up so far in 2009-10. Take a look:
That's three goaltenders, none of whom has yet turned 22-years-old, who have combined to go 32-9-3/2.00/.930 in North America's top two leagues. Impressive? Uh, yeah.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, George McPhee will no doubt be a busy man as he searches for the player or players who can make his Caps even better-prepared for a deep playoff run while not sacrificing too much of the future. And with the prospect depth he has between the pipes - and despite his protestations otherwise - he just may have a goalie to spare.
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Deep depth is my favorite kind of depth
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Dec 28, 2009 9:32 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
If we’re deep, does that mean we’re cold too?
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 10:11 AM EST up reply actions
It’s going to be quite a discussion point as the end of February approaches… do the Caps give up a goalie (and place a bet on one of the other kids for the future) for a rental like Kovalchuk?
We’re betting on “no.”
If you've read this far...seek help.
I tend to agree – I don’t see them ponying up one of the G’s for a pure rental.
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There are only two players I’d consider it for. Does Atlanta need a young goalie? Does Anaheim?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Dec 28, 2009 9:37 AM EST up reply actions
Hiller’s a UFA. Uh Oh.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t Anaheim want Alzner and Varlamov for Pronger last year?
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
I think I recall Alzner, Carlson and one of the goalies or some such ridiculousness.
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Yikes.
Knowing what we know now, that would have been a Wadellian Coburn for Zhitnik type of move.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:33 AM EST up reply actions
Waddellian…fixed.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:33 AM EST up reply actions
Given the goalie situation in Montreal (see that column by Ken Campbell on the Halak-Price decision that might be looming), it could be a more crowded market for young goalies in demand at the deadline. Another reason to say “no” — the Caps would have to add too much to a goalie to make a deal.
If you've read this far...seek help.
And trading a goalie is already a tough proposition to begin with, given how few pan out, even among supposed blue-chippers. How often do you see these guys as centerpieces of major deals?
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Rarely, and never at the trade deadline (the Caps’ deal of Jim Carey some years back the exception… and not a happy one for Boston).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:03 AM EST up reply actions
Exactly. So getting value for young goalies is incredibly difficult. I’m sure there will be plenty of inquiries, but I’d be surprised if a Neuvirth trade did happen during the season.
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How often do you see these guys as centerpieces of major deals?
If we’re talking centerpiece of a deal we’re really only talking about Varly.
Not necessarily. Anyone can be the centerpiece of a deal.
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Obviously anyone can be the centerpiece of a deal. But if we’re talking about goalies….and about getting something substantial in return…Varly, IMO, is going to bring back substantially more than the other two.
Well, obviously. But he’s untouchable, so…
A guy like Neuvirth, with the right side dishes, could fetch a substantial return for a player who’s gonna be a UFA on July 1.
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Any links to a list of upcoming UFAs?
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:21 AM EST up reply actions
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
Thanks.
The only guys I really like that could help us(and could be available potentially if their teams keep shitting the bed) are Plekanec and Selanne.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:27 AM EST up reply actions
Kris Beech was the centerpiece of a deal once…
Signed,
Jaromir
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
I thought Ross Lupaschuk was the centerpiece of that deal? ;)
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:36 AM EST up reply actions
It would make me upset that we took Beech 7th overall in 99, but looking how awful the rest of that 1st round was, maybe its not so bad.
The 1999 draft is the worst draft of all time. Denis Shvidki, Mikhail Kuleshov, Konstantin Koltsov, and Branislav Mezei…oh my!
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:41 AM EST up reply actions
I think I was drafted in the sixth round…
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:44 AM EST up reply actions
Wacey Rabbitt Memorial Award for best name of that draft goes to Corey Pecker….6th round, 166th overall to Calgary.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:46 AM EST up reply actions
Just curious, not that Holtby’s numbers are terrible in the ECHL, but they are really a lot better in Hershey. Is it the quality of defense in South Carolina giving up ridiculous scoring chances? Or is Holtby just focusing better in the higher league knowing its an opportunity to show off his skills?
More likely the former (he’s 8th in the ECHL in SV%), though I haven’t seen a second of him in either League, so I really couldn’t say.
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Yeah, and I guess .911 isn’t anything to sneeze at. What caught my eye was giving up 24 more goals in SC in only 3 more games than he played in Hershey.
by HateOffSeason on Dec 28, 2009 9:48 AM EST up reply actions
Looking at the E’s top GAA numbers, not to mention those of Holtby’s replacement, it seems to be par for the course.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
I guess .911 isn’t anything to sneeze at.
Sounds like a Washington Post correction waiting to happen.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Dec 28, 2009 11:06 AM EST up reply actions 5 recs
Very nice.
“The Washington Post would like to clarify that ‘.911’s a joke’ was in reference to Braden Holtby’s save percentage and not the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.”
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Termintar Rec’ed.
A man gotta have a code
by Carl Putnam on Dec 28, 2009 12:02 PM EST up reply actions
Ask D'ohboy!
In an ideal world all ten fingers would be on my left hand so my right hand could just be a fist for punching.
by Rob Parker on Dec 28, 2009 9:45 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Deep depth = win.
One quibble: I think the Combined GAA can’t be 2.00 as it says towards the end of the post?
Regarding a trade, coughing up one of the kids for a rental would be tough. For a guy like Weber, I could see it happening.
I tend to think it would be Neuvy that goes.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
Feel free to double-check my numbers, but that’s what I got on the combined NHL and AHL numbers of the three Gs.
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Wild trade fantasy...
Before he signed his one year deal I would have absolutely thought Semin was expendable to the point where if ATL was interested, Kovy comes here and Semin and Nuvey go to Dixie. But that’s just a crazy dream I suppose.
That would have been an UNBELIEVABLE steal. Atlanta would never agree to such a trade.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Dec 28, 2009 11:08 AM EST up reply actions
How so? You give up a cost-controlled young player and a first line winger for two months of a Kovalchuk? A trade like that could, work but to say it’s an unbelievable steal is a stretch,.
You get the exclusive right to negotiate with Kovy before he hits the open market? (Note: I don’t want Kovy.)
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Dec 28, 2009 11:14 AM EST up reply actions
Per the original poster, this is all presuming that Semin was not going to be signed again. Since Kovalchuk >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Semin… yeah. I love Neuvirth but he doesn’t make up for all those >’s. Also Atlanta would be sure to get better offers.
Aren’t hypotheticals that have already been made impossible fun?
by sixsevenfiftysix on Dec 28, 2009 11:16 AM EST up reply actions
I think everyone can agree...
Hypothetical or not, if the Caps don’t make any moves at the deadline there will be some very confused and perhaps disappointed fans.
by Natty Bumppo on Dec 28, 2009 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
Giving up two players, each of whom might be soild contributors for more than a decade apiece, for a player who is very likely to be a two-month wonder (and how many top-end rentals have won a Cup in recent years?), is not generally the best use of trading assets.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
Generally no...
But as immensely inconsistent as Semin is, and the depth the Caps have in net, a guy like Kovalchuk can only improve an already incredibly dangerous offense IMO. Not to mention with Nyls cap hit off the books, Theo gone next year, and (before he re-signed) Semin’s potential cap gone it might not have been impossible to sign Kovalchuk to a few years.
To me, the Kovalchuk-to-DC stuff is similar to the “we need a bone-crushing defenseman” line of thinking in that it puts some romanticized vision of general awesomeness over what the team might actually need and/or be realistically able to get/afford.
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by J.P. on Dec 28, 2009 10:15 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
It’s entirely possible that making a big splash before the trade deadline goes a long way for the Caps in the sense that, right now as offensively talented as the team is, I don’t see other teams out there being intimidated by them. So making a big move could be the very thing that makes other teams take notice of an otherwise great team that is still missing a critical piece.
Rec’d. Very well said. As fun as it would be to get as much of the Russian Olympic team as possible on the Caps, I don’t think that Kovalchuk is what they need or how they should spend their cap space to further their goal of winning the Stanley Cup.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Dec 28, 2009 3:46 PM EST up reply actions
If the talk of $11M a year for Kovalchuk is even remotely in the ball park, that is way too pricey for the Caps (and frankly, an overpayment for Kovalchuk’s services, whoever signs him).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:37 AM EST up reply actions
I would agree that its overpayment on a team that actually contends, so perhaps that is how much money it would take to keep him in ATL, however, if he actually wanted to go to a winner even he would see that a number like that is unrealistic.
a guy like Kovalchuk can only improve an already incredibly dangerous offense
And there was no way that the Flyers defense could get worse after adding a guy like Pronger…
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Dec 28, 2009 3:44 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Now we know what GMGM is really thinking!
Was Neuvirth not ahead of Varlamov on the Caps chart, as late as 12 months ago? I do like me some 2.00/ ~.915/ jockeying for position, but I’ve got Holtby growing into the backup for whichever one {30 or 40} can stay healthy.
I note with interest that the team’s most expensive and experienced goaltender is not part of this discussion.
Well How About Trading Theodore?
Does anyone here think the Capitals could trade Jose Theodore and get anything for him? Like maybe a low round pick? I feel like it might be worth it for the team to dump him – if possible – to give Neuvy more of a shot. Yes, that would make the team tremendously young at net going into the playoffs, but it’s hard not to have unwavering faith in these guys. Plus it opens more Cap Room for the Capitals to get a rental and get Backstrom resigned. Theo clearly doesn’t want to be here after all his smashing of sticks. Also, anyone who’s seen Holtby play in Hershey lately, how good is he?
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
Trading Theo would have no impact whatsoever on signing Backstrom, as Theo is off the books before Backstrom’s new deal would begin.
And I’d disagree with “Theo clearly doesn’t want to be here after all his smashing of sticks.” If a little frustration is a pre-cursor to a move, Olie Kolzig would’ve been shipped out after his first week in D.C.
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it’s hard not to have unwavering faith in these guys.
I find it hard to have unwavering faith in either. Varlamov’s been great, but he’s also been injury prone. Neuvirth’s been solid, but he has eight NHL starts.
I see the upside of the idea of moving Theo for cap space, but I don’t see any reason to do it unless you have concrete plans to use the space – i.e. you have a trade worked out with someone else and just need to clear the space.
Agreed. If there’s a zero percent chance that Bruce could see himself playing Theo in the playoffs, dumping JT and bringing in, say, Dwayne Roloson (perhaps not the best example, as he has another year left after this one) might make some sense in that it saves money for another deal.
But this isn’t a video game or fantasy hockey, and how you treat players matters. So does having a veteran goalie around if your 22-year-old goalies break, mentally or physically.
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I have concerns about Dwayne Roloson's mobility at his age.
I’m quite happy with keeping Theo on board for the rest of the year and seeing if he’ll be willing to stick around as the “veteran backup” going forward, on a reduced contract.
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Spot on. There will be a vet goalie for the playoffs. I’m not opposed to trading Theo to limit the cap hit for our back up, but I don’t think it’s that likely from a guy like GMGM. That would require some serious wheeling and dealing, and as DMG points out, it would only really be worth it if there were other moves in the works to bring more salary on. Can’t say I expect that much action from him this year.
In an ideal world all ten fingers would be on my left hand so my right hand could just be a fist for punching.
how you treat players matters
It does, but given what happened with Olie/Huet, I don’t see GMGM showing much loyalty to Jose. And I think there’s about a zero percent chance that Bruce sees himself playing Theo in the playoffs. I also would be surprised if the Caps went Varly/Neuvy in the playoffs. I think a “Roloson” is coming.
Well the other side of the coin, is Neuvy ready now? He’s led his AHL Team to a Calder Cup. He’s showing some consistency at the NHL Level now. He’s pretty solid though I’m not completely sold yet. And he could gain a lot of experience for next year – when he’s actually the backup – being on the bench during the playoffs this year. How important do you think a backup goaltender in the playoffs is anyways? I’m not really sure, I’m sure you guys have a better idea.
Also, I totally agree that Varlamov has been somewhat injury prone, but still – if there’s another deal out there that could be made – I don’t think it’s a bad idea to dump Theo. Just a personal opinion. And I do love NHL2K10. :)
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I used to love the NHL2K games, but I haven’t played one since I got NHL 08. The EA games have just gotten better and better (with the exception of 09, which I felt was inferior to 08).
It seems to me like the 2K games have gotten more arcade-y and the EA games have gotten more sim like, which used to be the other way around.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:35 AM EST up reply actions
No, Neuvy is not ready for prime time, imo.
The goal he let in against the Devils can’t happen on a regular basis. He put himself out of position several times in that game that I saw (but did not pay a price for it).
I am not comfortable with him as a starter or long-term backup for the big club at the moment.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
He’s a lot closer to Prime Time than that first start showed, thankfully.
I’m back to being comfortable with Varly/Neuvy splitting the goaltending next year in a mid 50’s, mid 30’s fashion.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
He’s showing some consistency at the NHL Level now
Really? In 40% of his starts this year he’s got a SV% below .900. Yes, three good starts in a row, but he most certainly has not demonstrated “consistency” in my book.
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I’m not even sure Neuvirth is a lock to stick with the big club next year. Young goalies don’t often lead their teams to a Cup, and having two on the roster (one of which is somewhat injury prone) is quite a risk.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 10:40 AM EST up reply actions
You also can’t seem to teach consistency (Theo). I’m not saying I would be pleased with 2 young guys behind the pipes. However, I don’t think its any worse than relying on Theo to be a steady, veteran presence. Steady is just the one thing he has never been in his career.
I’m not saying we have to go trade Theo, and I’m not saying that I think having the two rookies in net would be a better situation. I just think I wouldn’t be upset if they moved Theo to get another piece and had to use both rooks. Also wouldn’t be upset if such a move brought in a low priced veteran backup and left Neuvirth contending for another Calder.
by HateOffSeason on Dec 28, 2009 1:05 PM EST up reply actions
“it’s hard not to have unwavering faith in these guys” to “I’m not completely sold yet” in 14 minutes. No wonder RMNB has a slightly different definition of “showing some consistency” from the rest of us. Zing!
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by J.P. on Dec 28, 2009 10:45 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
This is why I never joined debate team in high school… hahaha
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
We used to have huge arguments about old English frigates. I argued so vociferously about the merits of the weather gauge I was known as the mast debater.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 10:48 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Um,
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
hahaha.
I’m with the Capitals on whatever they decide to do. I trust them. As a fan I just don’t think it’s a great goalie situation right now. Does that matter or hurt the team? Not really. Just pointing it out. Theodore clearly sees himself as a #1.
Also, you have to let your young players play to see what you have. I’m not saying Neuvy is great but I personally have confidence on him being an average backup this year (at the trade deadline and beyond). And I would like to see him succeed. Peerless you make a good point with teams not winning with experienced goalies ( I agree), but the Pens did win with Fleury back there last year (5 full years of experience). Again, just discussing. It would be an aggressive move. Probably unnecessary. But a really fun discussion.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I wouldn’t see that he “clearly sees himself as a #1” — just that he doesn’t think he’s behind wherever Neuvirth is.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Dec 28, 2009 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
(and he’s NOT behind wherever Neuvirth is).
by sixsevenfiftysix on Dec 28, 2009 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
I wouldn’t want a goalie who didn’t think he could be the #1 guy on the team.
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I’d rather not have a #1 guy who plays like #2
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 28, 2009 11:19 AM EST up reply actions
And he could gain a lot of experience for next year – when he’s actually the backup – being on the bench during the playoffs this year.
It’d be a good experience, sure, but I think playing in Hershey in April, May, and June would better for his development than sitting on the bench watching.
Ultimately I just can’t see moving Theo making sense, from a cost/benefit standpoint. You lose the veteran, you lose the guy who (for now at least) is the number two on the depth chart, you risk your reputation to a certain extent, and…for what?
Can you explain the reputation part? I remember when Montreal traded Huet to us, Gainey got a lot of criticism for that move. Is that what you’re referring to? People being afraid to sign with us potentially on how we deal with Theodore?
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
Bruce’s increasingly bad/weird/whatever word you want to use reputation with goalie treatment.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 11:22 AM EST up reply actions
Fickle!
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
If we are talking about vets being upset about how another vet was squeezed out that conversation begins and ends with one man, and it’s not Theo. I honestly don’t think it would be a big deal; certainly not enough to offset the chance to compete for a Cup and play with AO. Don’t you think the vets in question will realize the move was done to give the rest of the team a chance to win the Cup? Sure, a vet that is worried they may not live up to their contract may be scared off, but do we want those guys anyway?
In an ideal world all ten fingers would be on my left hand so my right hand could just be a fist for punching.
why did i immediately think of tom poti when i read this?
by Natty Bumppo on Dec 28, 2009 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
But he’s already won a Calder Cup. So he’s seen the pressure in the AHL.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I guess I’m just missing what more experience Neuvy needs in the AHL. Plus if you move him up, you could start to speed up Holtby’s development. He seems ready for AHL action.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
He needs minutes. If he’s the backup in Washington, especially during the playoffs he’s not getting them. NHL > AHL but playing the AHL > riding pine in the NHL.
But he’s also practicing with one of the Best NHL Teams full time. That isn’t such a bad tradeoff. I see your point about the minutes though. Just being devil’s advocate.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I’m with DMG. He needs gametime shots — lots of them. And AHL shots aren’t that different from NHL shots.
The more situations he faces, the better he’ll be whenever those situations come up again. Practice is nice, but there’s just no substitute for games.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Dec 28, 2009 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
Have you gone to a Hershey Bears Game before? The game is much, much slower. I think there’s a huge difference from AHL/NHL shots. Explains why Alexandre Giroux is a superstar down there, and mediocre on the Caps.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
AHL gametime shots > NHL practice shots
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Dec 28, 2009 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
I agree with you and DMG, I’d just point out that Neuvirth has looked a hell of a lot better after having a chance to practice with NHL players. And as far as AHL shots not being that much different from NHL shots, well that’s a case of “so close yet so far.” Just ask the Rooster.
In an ideal world all ten fingers would be on my left hand so my right hand could just be a fist for punching.
Just ask the Rooster.
I hear he ain’t gonna die.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
It’s not just about the pressure, it’s about the minutes. Neuvirth played 1,346 against good competition last spring in the AHL playoffs, rather than sitting on the bench.
And with goalies a huge part of it actually is learning how to deal with the pressure because it’s such a mental position. Big games for goalies are big games at any level. You see a lot of goalies make or break their names at the WJC because of this, IMO.
In an ideal world all ten fingers would be on my left hand so my right hand could just be a fist for punching.
Again. He already won a Calder Cup, what more can you learn on that level? I get the DMG argument that he’ll get more impact minutes, but I still think it doesn’t hurt too much to ride the pine in Washington and practice with the team – at this point.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
He already won a Calder Cup, what more can you learn on that level?
Winning a Calder Cup, even as a goalie, doesn’t mean you’re ready to graduate from the AHL.
And even given Neuvy’s nice run the last three games, in terms of results, he pretty obviously (to my mind) has some progressing left to do. I’d not be willing to turn over a full time backup position to him right now, let alone a full time Number One.
Pretty hard to argue with Varly’s numbers (and performance); when healthy, he can be my starting G. But he’s had consistent health issues, so you need a decent Plan B. Theo > Neuvy as Plan B, at this point.
So I don’t see Theo getting traded. I also don’t see Neuvy or Varly getting traded.
But I could see Holtby going as a complementary piece in a deal this year.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
But I could see Holtby going as a complementary piece in a deal this year.
I certainly would hope not. No reason to trade him at the moment. He may wind up being the best of the 3.
A man gotta have a code
by Carl Putnam on Dec 28, 2009 12:22 PM EST up reply actions
And he might end up the worst. It will take several years for that question to answer itself.
The Caps have a window of opportunity now and in the immediate future. They might have one in five or six years. And they might not, depending on injuries, development, etc.
If there’s a single piece out there that puts them over the top, and it costs a Holtby to finalize the deal, you have to pull the trigger.
My point here is that Holtby has the lowest current value to the Caps, and thus is expendable.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
See Pepper’s post on the matter.
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Yeah, what he said.
Signed,
Wade Flaherty
Brian Finley
Milwaukee Admirals, Class of 2004
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Dec 28, 2009 12:40 PM EST up reply actions
see, im a believer that Theo will be shipped out at the deadline before any of the young goalies in the pipeline. Reading between the lines of what BB’s said the past week or so, he really wants to see if Neuvy can cut it at the NHL making Theo expendable. It was already presumed by almost all that Varly-Neuvy would be the goalie combo next year so why does BB want to see if Neuvy can cut it this year? I’m just weary that Theodore is going to get the Circles/Olie treatment here the next few months if he cant be dealt sooner. Theo is not having a bad year either, it’s just the team looks different and the coach is more confident when the two kids are in (ironically). …. The question we should be asking is, is there a market for goalies? I would assume Halak is #1, but who else is available and which teams have the need?
Agreed.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
One thing to consider in all of this, of course, is Neuvirth’s development. Is it better for him to spend the rest of the year in Hershey as the number one, or in DC as the number two? I’d think the former, and that’s enough of a reason to keep Theo around.
Plus, realistically given his recent history, you have to wonder if your number two can be a number one for a stretch if the guy he’s behind is Varlamov, and I’m not sure Neuvirth is there (or who the Capitals call up if Theo’s gone and Varlamov’s hurt).
I agree with your first paragraph and that makes sense enough for there to be no movement before the deadline.
I do, however, completely disagree with your second paragraph. Last December, wasn’t Neuvy considered the top prospect and long-term answer in goal, hence being called up before Varly? If I recall, Varly got the call up in the spring because Neuvy was hurt at the time. Varly just happened to rise to the occasion, grabbed the #1 slot and didn’t let go. Besides, if BB didn’t think Neuvy was capable of being the #1, why would he start him back-to-back against Miller and Brodeur with a healthy Theo sitting there?
The same reason why BB started Theo on both ends of the Florida home and home. Hot hand being rode, new guy getting long looks, etc.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 11:26 AM EST up reply actions
Last December, wasn’t Neuvy considered the top prospect and long-term answer in goal, hence being called up before Varly? If I recall, Varly got the call up in the spring because Neuvy was hurt at the time. Varly just happened to rise to the occasion, grabbed the #1 slot and didn’t let go.
No, Varlamov’s been viewed as as good or better than Neuvirth. The priority last fall was to keep Varlamov in North America – Neuvirth was the one who was initially loaned overseas and then sent to the ECHL while Varly was kept in Hershey, and Neuvirth was recalled first because the Capitals needed a goalie because Varlamov was hurt. in February and early March.
Besides, if BB didn’t think Neuvy was capable of being the #1, why would he start him back-to-back against Miller and Brodeur with a healthy Theo sitting there?
To ride the hot hand, to see how the responds, to showcase him as trade bait, or to get him more NHL minutes. Any of those are plausible, and none necessarily mean Boudreau thinks Neuvirth’s a number one.
Why play Neuvirth agaisnt Miller and Brodeur? Because regular season means Hasek.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Dec 28, 2009 11:52 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
why would you want to trade Neuvy, when you control him for so long and he looks to have a decent shot at being an NHL goalie. Especially when you have a guy making almost 5 mil a year and is in the final year of his contract. Just like baseball. The Capitals have great value on some of their players – terrible with others (clark, pothier). They need to maximize every dollar they have.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
Because if Holtby continues to progress, you’re only having this discussion in another year when he’s on the second year of his deal while Varlavirth are up for QO’s/possible long-term deals.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 12:04 PM EST up reply actions
The same reason you want to trade any other player – because what you get in return is more valuable to your team given your current situation.
That said, I don’t think the Caps trade Neuvirth because I think having two solid young goalies is a huge plus and moving one negates that, and that Varly and Neuvirth mean more to the Caps than to other teams. But it wouldn’t shock me.
I disagree on Pothier’s contract. I think he may be slightly overpaid, but by no means terrible for the dollar amount.
It is a high dollar amount considering how many capable, young, inexpensive defenseman they have.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I put pothier’s name in parenthesis so i was being broad there. I am sorry. I wish there were WAR levels for the NHL so we could see what exactly Pothier has given back to the team during his entire deal. Probably a little bit worse than slightly overpaid because of the unfortunate head/eye problems.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
btw, DMG you are awesome. Very well-stated and intelligent. I’ve had fun.
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
I thought it was the other way around. They called Varly up in December last year when Theo got injured during a practice. That was quite the story. Varly was with Hershey who was on a road trip to Texas at the time so the logistics of getting him to Washington in time for the Caps game was quite crazy. Hence, Stretch was sitting on the bench as backup until Varly could get there.
Then they called Neuvy during the Feb/March time frame because Varly was hurt. Neuvy started off well. Then had a horrible game or two and was sent down. Varly was called up in April.
Rocking the Red since 1975
But two young goalies...
So far the odd man out here is Theo (with his lackluster 9-5-4/2.94/.901),and he seems to have lost the #1 job while Varly is hurt to a call-up, which begs the question…
Do people feel comfortable making the stretch run and going into the playoffs with 2 very young goalies? Or do you keep Theo around as a veteran backup even considering his performance?
Theo’s performance has been more or less what was expected of him – inconsistent, with peaks and valleys, and generally decent. He’s not the #1 and won’t be in the spring, barring something significant and unforeseen. That said, given that he’s been as expected, why would you expect them to move him?
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I’m not sure I expect them to move him via trade, just to either send him down (I’m sure he has a 1 way contract so they can’t without him clearing waivers, which I’m sure he would), put him in the press box for a while, or waive him. Maybe get him to feign an injury to save face.
Yeah, I don’t really see any of those scenarios playing out right now, but I could be wrong.
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No and yes, respectively, but giving Neuvirth this run now or making it the Varlavirth show when 40 comes back helps make a more open spot for #1 (so I’d like to think), with Holtby, who’s still in year 1 of his ELC a chance to push for the gig or come in as the backup by the end of ‘10-’11.
"I may hug people too hard and get lost at malls, but I'm not an idiot."
by Bald Pollack on Dec 28, 2009 10:28 AM EST up reply actions
I’m fine with trading Theo and going with the 2 youngsters. I was fine with this even before the season. I know the whole experience argument, but I tend to believe that gets overblown. They both have had experience playing in North American playoffs. If one gets cold, I’m guessing the other would fill in just fine. My only concern would be as others mentioned, is Neuvy sitting on the bench and how that would affect his development. I think he’d get enough playing time the rest of the season to progress nicely. Plus, he’d be working with Irbe every day in practice.
’Tis nice to have this type of goalie problem.
A man gotta have a code
by Carl Putnam on Dec 28, 2009 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
First things first:
Make sure Arturs Irbe is the happiest man in DC Arlington. Whatever we’re paying him, we should double it and then buy him a car. Maybe even a house.
ALEX, FЯEE
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