The Ballad of Doug Wilson, The Finale: The Build-Around-My-Young-Core Strategy
By Mike Reed
Thanks for sticking with me from part 1 through part 2 and into this finale. I think this is the most likely scenario, odds of this happening are around 2-3.
I (fake Doug Wilson) have been mandated by ownership to make significant changes, so if I build around my young core we should be set for years to come. There are a million and one options, so I’ll just look at a couple. I’m assuming here that most NHL players can be had for a price, and GMs are rational. Both are false assumptions, but it’s easier this way.
The “Young Core” that’s untouchable that I’ve talked about? Burns, Pavelski and Couture are the obvious ones, but there are a couple other players (Clowe, Desjardins and Demers, for example) who I think we have to keep in Teal next year. And, unlike my last scenario, unless it is a deal that will reshape our franchise, I think we shouldn’t trade Marleau. So, who should we target that you might not have thought of?
Free Agents: I don’t want to rehash all of the awesome work done by the BOT staff on this subject , so here’s the list of names that the writers have already tackled: Zach Parise, Jiri Hudler, Matt Carle, Ryan Suter, Trevor Gilles Jordin Tootoo, Olli Jokinen, Pavel Kubina, Jamie Langenbrunner, Shea Weber, Joe Corvo (who used to be called Joey), Ray Whitney, Teemu Selane, Jarret Stoll, Hal Gill, P.K. Subban, Marcu Sturm and George “The ‘Stache” Parros. Here’s 4 other value guys we should at least take a look at who are young and would be massive adds:
Forwards
Defensemen
Guys I mentioned in my previous column who are must-haves: Josh Harding, Kyle Wellwood and Sheldon Souray.
That’s it. Thing is, though, I (Doug Wilson) have likely already thought of all of this. I contend we have one of the best management teams in the NHL right here in San Jose.
Have at it, Doug, bring us a contender next year. The Hockey Gods and the Blueline Boomer have all the faith in the world in you.
~BB
An add-on list, best sandwich topping
1) Mild Pepper Rings
2) Horseradish Mustard
3) Cream Cheese
4) Lengthway-sliced pickles
5) Green Olives
Echoing King Shark’s thoughts in this post, thanks to all of our armed forces for the great work they do.
Want to debate a list? Tweet me @bluelineboomer
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