2008-09 Rink Wrap: Sergei Fedorov
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 7:00 AM EDT
in Rink Wraps
110 comments
From Alzner to Varlamov, we're taking a look at and grading the 2008-09 season for every player who laced 'em up for the Caps for a significant number of games during the campaign, with an eye towards 2009-10. Next up, Sergei Fedorov (and if you missed John Erskine's Wrap yesterday, be sure to go back and check it out).
Sergei Fedorov
#91 / Center / Washington Capitals
6-2
207
Dec 13, 1969
18
UFA ($4,000,000 cap hit in 2008-09)
8.05 rating
Key Stats: For the third consecutive season, Fedorov played in fewer games than the season before, and for the fifth straight campaign, his ice time per game and total points decreased.
Interesting Stat: Fedorov had the best five-on-five Corsi Rating in the NHL (minimum 10 games played).
The Good: Besides that Corsi stat, Fedorov's 56.2 faceoff winning percentage would have been ninth-best in the League if he had taken enough draws to qualify, he had the fourth-best +/-ON/60 at five-on-five on the team (minimum 30 games played), and opponents had fewer shots on goal per sixty at even strength when Feds was on the ice than when any other Cap was (minimum 30 games). His excellent 5.04 points/60 at five-on-four was only good for seventh on the team, but still is worth mentioning (even if he had more secondary assists per 60 five-on-four than any other forward in the League). He hardly killed any penalties (much to our chagrin), but only Mike Green, Nicklas Backstrom and Matt Bradley had better GAON/60s four-on-five. Fedorov filled in on the blueline admirably when needed during the regular season and in attempts to generate extra offense in the playoffs, and, of course, there was that goal he scored against the Rangers.
The Bad: Fedorov took the most penalties per sixty minutes five-on-five of any forward in the League (minimum 20 games played), had the worst raw five-on-five penalty plus-minus (penalties drawn minus penalties taken) of any forward in the NHL, and had the worst penalty plus-minus per sixty minutes five-on-five of any skater in the League (minimum 10 games played). His points- and shots-per-game were the third-lowest of his career (behind 2006-07 and last season), and he suffered through a 25-game stretch from early November through early March in which he scored just twice. And while he came through in the clutch in Game 7 against the Rangers, he now has just three goals in his last 29 playoff games (though he does have 17 assists in that span) after a one-in-14 postseason this time around.
The Vote: Rate Fedorov below on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) based on his performance relative to his potential and your expectations for the season - if he had the best year you could have imagined him having, give him a 10; if he more or less played as you expected he would, give him a 5 or a 6; if he had the worst year you could have imagined him having, give him a 1.
The Discussion: At what price - and in what role - would you want to see Fedorov back in red next season (assuming, of course, that the rumors of him heading to the KHL are inaccurate)? What would it take for him to earn a 10 rating next year?
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I believe this is going to get the most disussion . We brough Fedorov in after last year for a whopping 4 million dollars for a few reasons. One, possibly the most important, was his veteran leadership role that was an important reason for last years run. Im pretty sure he fulfilled that role pretty well. Next was his offense. This was where he dissapointed, but only because he didnt play enough. In my mind, the NYR game 7 goal was the 4 million dollar goal. Yeah, he scored 11 goals, but only in his 52 GP. Thats on pace for about 17-18 regular season goals— And that is solid. But hes got to stay healthy! His penalty minutes are most likely coming because he, of course, is getting old. He has lost his step, and has to make up for it with stick infractions. Not much you can do there, just tell him to play smart and not panic. Its great to have him for his influence and versatility, but not for the four mil that we paid this year. For him to come back, I would say maximum 2 million dollars for the one year. And to get a 10? Play 65-70 games, score 12-17 goals, play consisten offense and defense when we need him, and cut his penalties down from 50 PIM to 30 PIM.
by amkcaps on May 26, 2009 7:40 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
the bold ends after “not”….. its too early
by amkcaps on May 26, 2009 7:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty much agree with everything there.
To get a ten though? If he is back, and I think it would have to be for less than 2 million, he would have to continue his mentoring role, this time perhaps with a guy who isn’t quite ready to be a 2nd line center from Hershey. I don’t know who that is, but if he can play in maybe 45-50 games, stay healthy, and contribute to helping one of our prospects learn how to be a decent top 2 line center in the other 32-37 games. Probably a pipe dream, but wouldn’t it be nice?
by HateOffSeason on May 26, 2009 8:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right now? Of the centers I’ve seen in Hershey, I’d give Aucoin the best odds of sliding into that role. I don’t think that McPhee is going to be able to afford both the top Dman and the center folks are looking for – one of them is going to have to come from Hershey.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
by gotsparkly on May 26, 2009 8:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless McPhee pulls off a very nice trade, I have a feeling the center, the d, and anyone else will come from Hershey. We have a ton of talent down there…might as well use it if we don’t have any money to work with under the cap.
by HateOffSeason on May 26, 2009 8:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My guess is that McPhee’s going to be able to wrangle one of the above, and the other one will come from Hershey. I don’t think ShaMo comes back. I really don’t.
On the whole, if one of them comes from Hershey, I’d rather it be Aucoin and get a top-flight D-man.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
by gotsparkly on May 26, 2009 8:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The issue is that we do have a lot of young talent in Hershey, but I would bet dollars to donuts that none of it is ready to step into a #2 Center or rugged top 6 wing role. Obviously, Alzner likely comes up, and Carlson even is a distant possibility, but outside of those two, no one else is going to see significant minutes up in DC.
We’ll have to make a trade or make some FA splashes.
We all saw what GMGM said about FAs (paraphrased): “We don’t want to sign FAs, especially that expensive Bouwmeester kid.”
He said essentially the same thing about Anton Gustafsson. I fully expect to see Bouwmeester wearing our Red, White, and Blue come July 2.
We’ll still have the 2 top 6 FW to worry about, though. If Bouwmeester takes… 5 mil to bring up, which takes Feds’ money (honestly, I like Feds a lot as a legend, but I don’t see him as a super contributor anymore – I hope he makes a shit ton of money in the K, next season) and a touch more, that leaves Kozlov and Nylander’s money to figure out.
I personally think Kozzie stays, and I think GMGM tries like hell to sell Nylander off to anyone. I think we might even see a Jagr-esque deal, with us taking a million of his salary or something, just to get him off elsewhere.
If Nylander goes that way, I hope we make a push for Cole this summer. But that’s another expensive proposition. Goddamn the salary cap, man.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The a difference between signing a highly coveted UFA and a team # 1 entry level contract is about 4.5 million though. If Bouwmeester comes here (I personally don’t think he will), then expect Mo, Alzner/Carlson and a pick/cash will go out for a C.
Besides, the cap economics of signing a guy to a multiyear deal in excess of $4m when you’ve got to re-sign 19 and 28 are a potential nightmare.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And while I understand that, I don’t see anyone in Hershey outside of Alzner capable of stepping up to be what we need them to be, and Alzner probably isn’t the “big #2” this year. I hope that Perrault amazes in camp. I hope Osala makes a Shanahan of himself. I hope C-Bo comes into camp and undresses everyone around him.
But I don’t think that’ll happen.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Honestly at this point, assuming the KHL rumors surrounding Fedorov are fact, I’d take the safe odds on resigning Kozlov (or signing a F/C to a Kozlov-like contract) and taking whatever benefit comes from moving ShaMo.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can’t eat salary (as blatantly, at least) in a trade under the new CBA.
And Cole hasn’t scored a playoff goal since Christ was in diapers. No thanks.
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by J.P. on May 26, 2009 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eric Staal also isn’t Alex Ovechkin. If Kozlov can have the playoffs he did, who’s to say Cole can’t be a revelation on the other side?
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No one. But at what he’ll cost, I’d rather not gamble on a guy whose goal totals have dropped in each of the last three seasons and has no playoff goals since 2002.
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by J.P. on May 26, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll concede your point, but also offer that very few players around the league wouldn’t benefit from playing with AO and Backs.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Staal was 2nd in the league in shots, right? I know that’s still a difference of like 1000, but still…
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not to mention the pure speed Cole brings. That would allow for a lot more pure 2-on-1/nones with AO than Kozlov or Backs could ever hope to be part of.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d rather have Cole than Bouwmeester.
take the contract savings between the two and send Juice to “Shoot the damn puck” school.
by FFSEnough on May 26, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t believe nothing’s going to happen, either, though.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not sure there’d be much savings, honestly. I could see Cole asking 3 or 4 mil.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He can ask for $20 million. What he asks for is totally irrelevant.
by TylerG on May 26, 2009 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
we do have a lot of young talent in Hershey, but I would bet dollars to donuts that none of it is ready to step into a #2 Center or rugged top 6 wing role.
The Caps control the rights of 5 top-six wings: Ovechkin, Semin, Laich, Flash and Fehr. Six if Clark is healthy. They control the rights of 8 NHL-ready defensemen: Green, Poti, Pothier, Schultz, Jurcina, Morrisonn, Erskine and Alzner. Nine if you count Carlson.
They have only one top-line center: Backstrom. Aucoin, Laich and Steckel could fill in on line 2, but I don’t see any of them as a full-season solution there. Unless Nylander magically becomes effective, I think center has got to be the team’s top priority.
by Gould Old Days on May 26, 2009 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
See this for a handy and worthwhile primer.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
First time I’ve ever been recommended to myself. Cheers!
by Gould Old Days on May 26, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I lacked the brainpower to plug it properly, what can I tell you.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t like asking guys to play outside their abilities. Steckel on the checking line (or perhaps 4th line if warranted) is where he needs to be and where he is effective. I used to fancy playing Laich at center, but at this point I’d be skeptical.
I did a full spit-take on the NHL-ready comment re our defense. :-)
NHL-Ready-To-Be-Schooled – I think we know which ones I’m talkin about.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on May 26, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
After Nyles went down last year and before the deadline, who was our 2nd center?
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree with you there. And in case no one noticed, he did pretty well in Game 4, too. Alas, an injury for Game 5. Hope its not serious.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 26, 2009 8:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just say no
1) We have already stated that it bringing back Feds at any price wouldn’t be wise. Yes, his numbers when he plays aren’t bad, but it’ll be 3 seasons since he’s played close to a full slate of games. Its not realistic to expect he’ll be able to pull that off at age 40
2) It also was clear that he’s lost a step, which explains his tendency to take so many restraining fouls. Better to cut the cord and use that cap space/roster spot on a player who is more likely to play an entire season and be with the team beyond 2010.
3) However, for this discussion IF he returns to achieve a ‘10’ he’d have to play 75+ games as the #2 center. Score 20 goals, 60 points. Continue his face-off mastery, and be a + player. As stated earlier, its a long shot to expect this, but it would make for a nice story!.
I find sometimes it's easy to be myself
sometimes I find it's better to be somebody else
by Fauxrumors on May 26, 2009 7:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
3. I didn’t care about his production coming into the year, but to pay someone $4 million for leadership when they took so many friggin’ penalties on their own was exasperating, bordering on unacceptable. If he wants to come back, I wouldn’t mind it under Foppa-like circumstances in order to get a reduced rate.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 8:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
As much as I enjoyed watching him on the Caps the past 15 months or so, he did really seem to have lost (at least) a step. It was especially noticable when he was involved in anything resembling a footrace in the playoffs.
The logic behind those KHL reports make them believable to me. Fedorov won’t get more than half of what he is reportedly being offered by the caps, both in terms of years and annual salary, and the chance to play with baby brother has got to be tempting.
IF he were to come back, I wouldn’t give him more than 2 million, nor would I expect him to play more than 50 games. 35 points would be about what I think we could expect, but I think its time to move the bus forward.
Still, we’ll always have that game 7 winner to remember him by.
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Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 26, 2009 8:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting Stat: Fedorov had the best five-on-five Corsi Rating in the NHL (minimum 10 games played).
Eric Fehr has the best among players who played at least 60 games.
I have no idea what that means.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 26, 2009 8:12 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Here’s some info on that Corsi Rating.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 26, 2009 8:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand the concept; the arithmetic isn’t hard to follow. I’m just engaged in a little headscratching as to where it stands in the pecking order of tools to evaluate players.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 26, 2009 9:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
seems to me Corsi breaks down the game even further than just a simple plus/minus rating. for example, when player A is on the ice how much does A’s team shoot the puck and how much does the opposing team shoot the puck? then it factors in blocks, etc…. how much is one player helpful in creating chances for his team and vice versa, shutting down the other team ?? it makes the intangibles a little more tangible, i think.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 26, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It means Fehr is shooting too much or playing too much on the top line.
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice while it lasted
Fedorov was good while he was here. I’m sure he had lots of little nuggets of wisdom for our young players. Now that the Caps have two years of playoff experience, it’s time for them to step up and do what is expected of them. No knock on Feds, but he is not able to keep up with the speed of today’s players. All those PIM and such will not be helpful for a run next year or in two years. The only role I envision him is as a player/coach, and even that would be limited. All that has been discussed already in another thread.
If those rumors are true about Feds going to the KHL, and they seem to be, I think he’s gone next year. No way the Caps pay at least $3.8 mil for him to stay.
Hats off to ya, Feds. Have a shot of vodka and remember when you were in D.C.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 26, 2009 8:17 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not a Done Deal
Tarik is reporting that the deal for Feds to Russia is not a lock and he still is interested in returning to the Caps. Let me guess. Money’s the issue.
by b.orr4 on May 26, 2009 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If he’s giving the Caps a chance to match $3.8m per season, I wish him well in Russia.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He’d be lucky at this point to get $3.8 million over two years.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 26, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. The Russian deal could be a way to try and force the Caps hand. They bit last year, but I don’t see McPhee budging this time around. Especially witrh salary cap Armageddon coming next year.
by b.orr4 on May 26, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with b.orr - I think its a political move on Feds part - forcing GMGM’s hand. I think GMGM is going to buy into his bluff and say bye bye.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 26, 2009 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I almost hope he goes to the KHL. It would solve issues. If he goes, then we wouldn’t have to worry about the debate of how much he is worth or the stress on not offering him money.
I gave him a 6. Most of that based on the Game 7 winner, and the fact that I still like the guy.
However, on a team with a lack of leadership at times, he can’t make that many penalties and not have me question his ability and value. The guy is doing the best he can, and while there is a drop or two left in the tank, there isn’t much. Especially not at 4 million. He had the Caps over a barrel, and some of me wonders whether the team would have been better off trying to make Nylander fit (vomit) or having tried to shave off a little more cash from the deal so they could at least call up and send down the guys they wanted. I mean, how big was the market for Fedorov? I can’t believe he was able to command 4 million from just anyone he felt like.
by Chimaera on May 26, 2009 8:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m with you on Feds leaving. When I read the report that he might “defect” to Russia (how ironic is that?), my first reaction was relief. Dont’ get me wrong, I absolutely love Feds as a player and, despite contrary opinions, I still believe he can bring a lot to the table in terms of his play. And yes, that goal against the Rangers completely justified his $4 milllion salary. All that said, I think McPhee wasn’t going to pay him more than $2 million and he’d have to have his minutes reduced to remain fresh for the playoffs. Given those caveats, McPhee would be better off taking his money (along with Brash’s) and going out and making a deal for a younger guy who can really play the second-line center position for 82 games. Feds brought a lot of grace and flair to the game, he’s a first ballot HOFer and the fact that he loved being here made me smile, but his going back to Russia may be the best for all sides.
by b.orr4 on May 26, 2009 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He deserves a 3
I love Feds so much, and I am so glad he is a part of the team, but I can’t ignore the fact that he committed that many penalties. We have called out Semin, and in fact cited it as a good reason to let him walk away as a free agent in 2010. Though Semin’s penalties are possibly more dramatic and untimely (I never would have guessed his per 60 ratio would be lower than Feds’), that needs to be seen as a major problem.
We have stated an unbelievable number of times that the Caps’ discipline is a great weakness. How can we say the leader of that undisciplined play is not a liability?
I hate myself for saying this, because I really want him to come back, but how can he? BB needs to hold him accountable for his sloppy play (even if there’s a good reason for it), and if that is really going to happen, how could he truly be classified as a leader?
by Love and Osechkin on May 26, 2009 9:36 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
But Semin’s defensive play improved drastically. He just needs to recognize his limits better. So many of his penalties were trying to stick lift and getting the hands, etc.
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, is it insane to expect that Keith Aucoin is good for 35 points and 70+ games? If he is, then that is the right choice, because that is an option that will save the club almost 3.5m, and doesn’t require a trade. That way, GMGM can go test the market for Komisarek or Zanon, or someone who is big and nasty to PK and shutdown in our zone.
by Love and Osechkin on May 26, 2009 9:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think the better question is: Are those second-line numbers on a playoff team. And they’re not. The Caps need another C.
by TylerG on May 26, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I absolutely agree, but where is the magical playmaking 60 point person? Honestly, Nylander looks like the best option out there other than Cammalleri. That is scary.
by Love and Osechkin on May 26, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A 7....
…it would have been higher had he not missed so many games. When he was in there he was outstanding at times, but at times he did show his age. You can tell from upstairs when watching him that he knows what to do, his mind is working, but his body couldn’t do it. When that happened, a penalty would result. Still, of the five most important goals since the lockout for the Caps, Feds has two of them (Game 7 vs. the Rangers this year, regular season finale vs. Florida last year).
His presence definitely helped Semin and Ovechkin be better hockey players, to be sure. He will be missed. If the offer according to PuckDaddy from the KHL is true ($3.8M a year for 2 years) then he won’t be back. WTOP said it was $3.8M for 2 years, meaning $1.9M/year. If that’s the case, he might be back.
He did say that one of his goals was to play with his brothers, who are both playing in the KHL. If that’s the case then thank you Sergei, it was great watching you skate here. Good luck in the KHL. :)
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on May 26, 2009 10:02 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Gave him a 4
Disappointed with his play this season. The penalties were the funny part to me though. I’ve actually coined the term in my house “Fedorov Hook.”
Fedorov hook [Fed-or-of hoo-k]
1. The act of calling a penalty on a player who’s stick is near the puck-carrier’s hands if and only if the player’s name is Fedorov
I swear he was called for more restraining fouls without actually restraining the puck carrier than any player I have seen since the lockout. Sure, you tap the guy’s hands with your stick it, by the letter of the law, is a penalty… but they are called RESTRAINING fouls for a reason.
Either way, Feds committed many of these fouls because of his inability to move his feet to catch back up to the play. Part of me wonders how much his early season ankle injury played into his production this year, maybe he’d be better next year, but if we have to join a bidding war with KHL, we’ll lose that. 3.8 is too much.
I would hate to bring him back for more than 2.5. I feel the team still needs him. As impressive as Aucoin was, I don’t know if he is ready to carry the load as the #2 pivot. This team has a lot of decisions to make, and if Feds is going to try to force our hands before we’re allowed by the league, then I wish him the best in Russia.
by FFSEnough on May 26, 2009 10:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Question
Time to derail, but since this thread is about what do you do for a #2 C…
With his play in the playoffs, is it time to give Stecks serious consideration as our #2 pivot with Semin and Laich/Fehr?
by FFSEnough on May 26, 2009 10:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree. I only see one UFA C that seems like a good fit: Saku Koivu.
The Caps have an abundance of D, something like 84 of them at last check. Move a D and a pick for a C. Or Semin for Mikko Koivu.
by TylerG on May 26, 2009 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Steckel is an ideal third line center. I just think that’s the role he was made for.
I love the idea of Saku Koivu, but worry about his age and the number of miles on his odometer. Not sure he’d be more effective than Fedorov, given his history.
by Gould Old Days on May 26, 2009 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is DC now the preferred destination for every aging European center? I think I’ll pass on Saku. Now, if his brother wants to come here, that’s a different story.
by b.orr4 on May 26, 2009 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He said Mikko, right? The 26-27 year old younger brother of said aged veteran.
Though I think the return would have to be a good bit better than just Mikko. You’re trading world class for 2nd class, there, if that’s all you get. Koivu and Burns? Holy hell, would that be a trade.
But I don’t want to lose Semin, personally.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Semin for M. Koivu is a steal from their end, a rip off from ours. M. Koivu is a nice player but he isn’t an all-world talent. Did you overlook Cammalleri or do you not like him as a fit on our team? If you don’t think he’s a good fit, then why not?
by Fehr and Balanced on May 26, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. Chance. At. All.
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by J.P. on May 26, 2009 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You think the Caps have no chance at S. Koivu? Because? Dollars? Term? Age? Or just disinterest?
by TylerG on May 26, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Koivu made $4.75 million this past season. You can’t take on that salary (assuming he’d even sign for what he’s making now) unless you moved Nylander. Remember, there is that perfect storm coming…Backstrom and Semin (maybe) needing to be re-signed and a lower cap, either next year or the year after (or both).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 26, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think S. Koivu will make anything near that. He’s a defensively responsible, leadership-providing, 15-35-50 35-year-old. I don’t think that equals $5M.
by TylerG on May 26, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Points for thinking outside the box, because I haven’t considered S. Koivu, but it’s unrealistic. Is a guy who’s worn the ‘C’ for so long and made 5 mil going to sign somewhere else for a short term deal and around 2 mil? Maybe his value has dropped hard core universally, but I think somewhere, someone who needs veteran leadership is going to top a deal like that (Minnesota?)
by Love and Osechkin on May 26, 2009 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Caps have no chance of using Stecks as a 2nd line center. I have no opinion on their chances of signing Sakoivu.
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by J.P. on May 26, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he would be nice 2-3 seasons and playing a little better ago. If we could pencil in the 02-03, or the 06-07 Koivu, I would be down. But the probable 09-10 Koivu? Nyet!
by Chimaera on May 26, 2009 11:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why isn’t Laich in this discussion as a possible second line center, if Feds does or doesn’t come back? Try these line combos on for size:
Ovechkin – Backstrom – Fehr
Semin – Laich – Kozlov’s Replacement…..
Fleischmann – Steckel – Bradley
Brashear – Gordon – Beagle
LTIR (hangnail or ingrown toenails) – Nylander…
by markbona-capsfan99 on May 28, 2009 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because he’s not a good playmaker. At all.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 28, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could Fleischmann-Laich-Semin, with Flash or Semin bringing the puck in and Laich banging the corners work at all? Just throwing it out there — doesn’t make sense to me.
by Gould Old Days on May 28, 2009 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t see that as any more than a recipe for Semin to play as even more of an individual than he might otherwise. IMO, Semin is at his best with a proper center, be that Backstrom or Feds. Otherwise, he tries to do too much.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 28, 2009 8:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
When moved away from the 4th line, the guy was productive. Look what he was able to get out of Brads and Laich as his partners. I think there is untapped potential there that, provided increased 2nd line minutes doesn’t hurt his PK mastery, could be a benefit to a line that really lacked some grit and toughness.
I’m not so sure our best move this coming season is to play half of it with what we’ve already got. The ideal situation lets us dump Nylander. I’m not so sure buying him out THIS year makes much financial sense, but assuming we can get rid of him, we’ve got a second line that needs some size/grit.
We’ve got a cap problem on the horizon. The more I read around there, the more I wonder if people realize how low the cap could go over the next two years. If we can lower our payroll this season and start making the Bears prove who’s ready and who’s not, the better we may be in the long run. Plus, cap flexibility gives us the ability to add players at the trade deadline. Would we still be watching our Caps if we had been able to make the deal to get Guerin here?
To me, it comes down to who I would rather see as our 2nd line center. Aucion, Steckel or Nylander. But if we’re going to talk about trading Semin for a 2nd-line C, then who steps into Semin’s role and is able to give us 30 goals? I don’t know if it’s wise to trade away that kind of talent without a proven replacement identified.
by FFSEnough on May 26, 2009 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As much as I have a hetero-lifemate crush on Stecks, even I think 2nd line time is a stretch for him.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I feel like if there are no takers for 92 then the only logical thing to do is put him on the 2nd line and let him mesh with Semin
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’ll never happen (Semin & Nyls meshing) – Semin is really much, much more of a North-South player than Nyls. That’s the issue with Nyls he’s really not built for N-S hockey and that’s the BB system…. All a Semin-Nyls combo would do is knock Semin off the system and cause problems. That’s why the Caps should resign Feds – he and Semin do mesh…
by markbona-capsfan99 on May 28, 2009 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. Steckel’s strength isn’t as a playmaker. Defense, faceoffs, that sort of thing. But no amount of teaching him Swedish is going to make him a Backstrom…or a Backstromette.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 26, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
483 Regular Season Goals...
…means he needs 17 to hit 500 for the career (regular season). How much would does something like that mean to a player close to ending his NHL career? Is that alone worth taking a substantial paycut to acheive?
by ThreePingPost on May 26, 2009 11:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It’s not just a round number. It’s a milestone that puts you in exclusive company. Does Fedorov need to reach 500? No. He is HoF no matter what he does from here out. But to say it’s “just a round number” isn’t accurate. Further, consider that no Russian has ever reached 500 goals and I could see Fedorov considering coming back just to take a crack at it.
by Fehr and Balanced on May 26, 2009 7:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In all likelihood, it would take him two seasons to get it.
by :hsughrofl: on May 26, 2009 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is a very good point
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on May 26, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not sure it’s worth missing out on 3.8 for two years tax free.
the best he is looking at here is 2.5+
by Chimaera on May 26, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really? To be remembered as one of 2 Russian players (along with Ovechkin hopefully) to score 500 goals? Like all those 500 HR guys are immortalized in baseball (although it’s not so holy nowadays)? I think 500 goals is a powerful incentive. Now, failing health is a different story…
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love his play, but…
As next year has potential to be a legit cup year, could he be relied on to perform for a full 4 playoff series?
He only played 60 games this year and still faded down the stretch. Caps will make the playoffs, as they make these cap constrined personnel decisions, they need to start thinking about who will perform for them when they get there.
by Stormblue on May 26, 2009 11:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I love the guy, but I rated him a 4 on criteria. I can’t see the Caps bringing him back for more than 2 million and I’d be shocked if he wore red for us under any circumstances next year.
As for potential #2 C’s in the UFA/RFA market, I’d take a long look at Tomas Plekanec and Chris Higgins in MTL, preferably the former.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on May 26, 2009 12:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow the rankings are all over the map. I think there’s quite a bit of nostalgia creeping in and inflation due to the Rangers goal. I have not yet seen — and I think it would prove difficult to do — anyone who gave Feds a 7 or above provide evidence that he actually exceeded expectations this season. (Unless, of course, you set the bar very low for him.)
by Scott in Shaw on May 26, 2009 12:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Aye.
I gave him a five – low-end of what I expected – and even that might have been generous.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I was at 4. I expected more games, more goals/assists/points and less penalties. As simple as that.
by Scott in Shaw on May 26, 2009 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was fine with the games played, but was expecting a more profound and obvious influence on Alex Semin.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
a more profound and obvious influence on Alex Semin
I was hoping for this to manifest in the playoffs. Orpik silenced our li’l bunny in round 2 and that’s just not something 91 can teach.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on May 26, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So did his bum thumb. One thing we’ve seen about Semin is that he needs everything healthy to compete. If something’s off, everything’s off. His thumb affected everything he did.
The same may be true for Mike Green…
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll wait before saying that about Green (especially after he learned his painful lesson against Pronger).
Semin…I think that’s a very accurate statement. And that’s not what winning in this league is about. Nothing personal, but I’d be looking to sell high on him…with maybe the benefit of showing the team that even being a friend of AO does not mean you are beyond trading. But it also depends on the offers I suppose.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on May 26, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also a 4. If a 5 is meeting expectations, well Feds fell slightly below them I think. I don’t see how he could have exceeded anyone’s expectations with the penalties and the injuries, but to each his own.
by wittcap79 on May 26, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What would be a clear criterion for such an influence? In terms of goals, assists, points, +/-, shots, even shots/game Semin was (much) better in 08/09 than 07/08. Sure, his PIM is worse, as we all’ve noticed, but still there is certainly some improvement that may partially be attributed to Fedorov.
by fnralch on May 26, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The evidence would be largely anecdotal, but certainly I’d hoped that bad penalties and occasional floating would have been a thing of the past with a strong leader/mentor around.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To be fair, Feds was a pretty terrible influence, if we’re talking penalty trouble.
by DrinkingPartner on May 26, 2009 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But terrific if we talk about +/-
by red army line on May 26, 2009 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was fine with the games played, but was expecting a more profound and obvious influence on Alex Semin.
It does make me wonder what was the more influential on his play this year, having Fedorov in the room or the benefit of him seeing noticeable PK time.
by Bald Pollack on May 26, 2009 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would have been fine with the games played if they had been healthy games played; i.e., if he had been taking occasional off-days to stay sharp down the stretch, as opposed to getting hurt and playing many of those games at less-than-100 percent. (I realize this was somewhat out of his control, but bad luck doesn’t get you a higher rating in my mind.)
by Scott in Shaw on May 26, 2009 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Long
The only stats that really matter when it comes to understanding what a drag Feds has become on the team’s success are Adjusted Net Penalties and the like. According to Puck Prospectus, Feds was at -25… in only 52 games which means that on a net basis he created a (net) PP opportunity for the opposition every other game!
He’s a great example of why +/- and Corsi are only useful sometimes, and only when you understand the context. His Corsi plus will be aided tremendously by playing w/ AO. His Corsi minus does not reflect how many of his shifts end up putting the team in a SH situation.
I gave him a 3, and was closer to giving a 2 than a 4.
I have graded most players 1 point lower than JP up to this point (altho I gave Backstrom a 9, not sure if we differed there), so I’ve clearly got a bit of a different curve.
by CarlosLA on May 26, 2009 12:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
His Corsi plus will be aided tremendously by playing w/ AO.
Except that he had a much better Corsi than AO and hardly skated with him at all at even strength (he played more with Semin, Fleischmann and Laich among forwards). But as I’ve said time and again, Corsi’s just another tool in the arsenal, and it’s a good one to have (it’s a pretty good indicator of puck possession), but it doesn’t tell a full story. No single stat does, really.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 26, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Facts? I don’t need no stinking facts!
I stand corrected on the Corsi assumption. ’-)
by CarlosLA on May 26, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Most good teams with a good GM have a knack for pulling a guy out of the scrap heap once in a while and getting way more out of him than they should. Hopefully we fall into that category.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on May 26, 2009 12:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He still has a lot to offer, both as a center and a mentor, and there’s always a chance of netting that 500th goal, which would be forever linked to the Caps. He’d be the first Russian NHL-er to do it. Not to mention a chance at another Cup. Can you see him drifting around a big rink in Russia, in the bleak winter, especially since his home is in the US? All last season he repeatedly said that he wanted to stay. Recently he even said that he would consider retiring if he couldn’t stay with the team another season. KLH has been after him for some time, so this is nothing new. The salary they are offering is about what Modano and Brind’amour will make next season, centers who are close to his age. He may accept less, who knows? The point of the “rumor” is that he doesn’t have to. But all indicators are that the experience here really spoke to his soul. If he’s asked to stay, I expect to see him here.
by FlyingCloud on May 26, 2009 2:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Then you also expect McPhee to call the bluff and offer one year at 2-2.5M taxable?
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on May 26, 2009 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I strongly expect
McPhee to walk into the room, tell Feds he got about 1M more this year than he should have based on games played. Tell the ol’ Russian that he has no problem with him playing 50 or so games a season as long as he’s fresh for the playoffs. By then he’ll have slammed the 2.5M on the table.
by FFSEnough on May 26, 2009 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn’t call it a bluff – he is idolized in Russia and any team there would love to have him. I agree that one year seems about right . After all, he will be 40. Roenick is 40 and was paid a little more than $1M. (Also a free agent now.) How age/experience/stats/intangible added value all balance out is what GMGM gets paid to figure out, thank heaven it’s not my responsibility. I do hope it’s settled soon.
by FlyingCloud on May 26, 2009 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d be very pleased to see Feds back in a Caps uniform for 50 regular season games and a healthy playoff run at $2.5M next season.
Do I think he could get more in Russia – sure do.
Do I think he wants to come back – sure do.
Do I think folks are being a little off in there negative assessments … sure do.
Why aren’t people really upset about the real issue – Nyls and his salary and contract….
by markbona-capsfan99 on May 28, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because that issue hasn’t even slightly changed in the past two-plus months. This one has.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 28, 2009 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, and because this is the Feds Rink Wrap and not the Nyls Wrap (which, I’m sure, will touch on the “real issue – Nyls and his salary and contract.”)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 28, 2009 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sigh Not what I was hoping for out of Feds: 4. I’d like to see him back next year off the ice, as a coach or a scout. I think the Caps need a 2nd line center who puts up points (not that I have a good idea where they’ll find one).
by RPI93 on May 26, 2009 8:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
19 | 8 | 9 | 2 | 18 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.20.2009 at 9:16 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
