2015 NHL Free Agency Open Thread
Will the Jackets be active?
After yesterday's huge deal to acquire Brandon Saad, will the Jackets turn their focus to free agency to improve the team?
We've talked about some of the blueliners that could be available, and this morning the Dispatch reported this:
#CBJ GM Jarmo Kekalainen sounded like he didn't expect much today in free agency, though told they've spoken with D Paul Martin.
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) July 1, 2015 Martin would be a solid addition, as long as his new deal doesn't hamper the team's ability to potentially add something in-season if they are a contender.
I have a feeling that today may be more about bolstering Lake Erie's roster. By my count there are 14 forwards, six defensemen and two goalies penciled in to their lineup, but I would imagine adding an AHL veteran scorer up front and an experienced defenseman may be in the cards.
Forward: Rychel, Karlsson, Milano, Bjorkstrand, Hannikainen, Zaar, Broadhurst, Moutrey, Anderson, Sedlak, Tynan, Craig, Ambroz, Vogelhuber
Defense: Kukan, Paliotta, Falk, Heatherington, Madaisky, Yevenko
Goalie: Forsberg, Korpisalo
Here are some potential names for AHL forwards: Chris Bourque, Chris Connor, Kevin Porter, Cal O'Reilly
...and some AHL defenders: Bobby Sanguinetti, Mark Cundari, Mike Kostka, Colby Robak, Andrew Bodnarchuk
It will also be interesting to see where the bigger available names end up. Mike Green and Cody Franson are in line for big bucks, while a team is going to give Matt Beleskey too much money.
The Jackets have been good at surprising us lately, so make sure you stay tuned to today's transactions. We'll keep you updated on any moves the Jackets are involved in.
Happy Canada Day to my fellow Canadians!