Scott Howson on NHL Live 06/09/10
On the Off-season, Howson commented:
"We would really to like to add some depth at center ice, we only have 3 natural center's right now. With Brassard, Pahlsson and Vermette, Vermette can play the wing as well. We would like to add some depth there, not necissarly a high-end Player. Obviously we would interested in a high-end player if he would ever become available in free agency or through a trade. We would just like to solidify that position".
Whoaaaa, Scotty hold your horses. Didn't we just hire a puck possesion offensive coach?? How the heck are we going to play an up-temp transition game with Commie, Hedja and Klesla on the back-end ?? Secondly, he's interested in a high-end player at center if he would become available in free agency (Marleau) or through a trade (Spezza)... That is the first time I have ever heard Howson say that. Vermette is a solid 2nd line center making close to 4M a year, when Howson uses the words high-end he's referring to a #1 center.. Which are rare and make $6M+ a year. Think Richards, Marleau, Jumbo Joe and Spezza. Is it possible that the CBJ won't necessarly update the back-end for the oppurtunity to snag a legitimate #1 Center ?? IMHO we are pretty solid with Vermette at 2, Pahlson at 3 and the 4th line centermen are a dime a dozen. Brassard is a good depth option so the only Centerman we would be in the market for is a true #1. Is this the year we are finally getting our wish ?? I would argue it's probably more important to update the D and maybe snag a capable top-6 forward then to pursue a centerman..
