The 'New' Oilers

Yes, its true, we are both die hard fans, but disagree...well, I'll say...most of the time. In all honesty, I think Mr Hemmertime sees the Oilers more with his heart than with his brain. I have to say, being a HUGE Oilers fan, I admire that somewhat. I think I tend to see and recognize their 'issues' and shortcomings a little more, where he likes to make excuses.

So...we argue.

Anyhoo...I think the first post should be concerning the additions and subtractions for the upcoming season. We'll get to Hemsky / Roloson later B.

Additions:

1. Dustin Penner

Ok, so they couldn't bring in the 'impact' player they wanted (unless there's something still to come). For some reason (to which I have no idea, seeing as how if you rank team by fan support, we would definitely be top 5) players don't want to play in Edmonton. There were rumors, and I do believe that Kevin Lowe tried to bring in some of the big names in the free agent market (Briere, Gomez, Drury...etc) and could not. So, he went after the 'teir 2' players, and probably overpaid a little. A wrong decision? I think not. Dustin Penner had 29 goals in his first year, 8 less than Drury, 3 less than Briere, and 16 MORE than Scott Gomez. He is much younger, much bigger, and in my opinion has much more potential than any of the aforementioned. Good pick up...kiss my ass Burke.

2. Sheldon Souray

Probably the most over-rated defenceman in the entire league. -11 and -28 in his last 2 years, a critical stat for a defenceman. Lidstrom (being the leagues leader for defenceman finished +40 a difference of 68 (wow). We only play 82 games. No comparison. The only place Souray will help is the big shot from the point, he has one of the best in the league, no doubt.

I hope I'm wrong about this guy...but I doubt it. Big salary for an over-rated player.

3. Joni Pitkanen

Another defenceman with a ridiculous +/-, but I'm going to blame this one on his former team. He is also more of an offensive defenceman, and has LOTS of potential. We do need the offense! Very young, and can be a #1 in coming years (I hope).

4. Mathieu Garon

Good backup, I liked Jussi too...but I think this is an improvement. Much younger than Roli, and can step in when he struggles. And he will B!

The Oilers have GREAT potential for goalies in their farm system, I don't think either of these guys will be around when we start winning a lot of games again. (Dubnyk, Deslauriers)

5. The Youngsters

This is where we will shine, maybe not this year, maybe not even next year...but the potential an skill in the Oil future is definitely bright. Lets see...Cogliano, Pouliot, Schremp, Dubnyk, Gilbert, Syvret, Mikhnov, Jacques, Deslauriers, and now...Sam Gagner.

Lots to look forward to...eventually....sometime...I hope...

Departures:

1. Ryan Smyth

Probably the most under-rated player playing today. devastating...thats all I have to say.

2. Joffrey Lupul

I don't think they gave this guy a chance. Disappointing year last year, no doubt. But with all those young players coming up, and the younger players this year (Penner for ex.), I think Lupul may have played well with these guys. Hometown Edmonton boy, loved playing with the team...had heart if nothing else. I'da kept him for another year or two.

3. Petr Sykora

Led the team in goals and points last year, but wheres he gonna be when these young guys start playing in 2-4 years. Too high a price to pay for a player right now...we are re-building, keep the young guys, lets face it, Edmonton aren't going anywhere for 3 years. Why pay a top 6 forward big money now? He is only 30...I know...but will he still be producing like he is now in 3 years?

In conclusion...

We are going to have a few rough years, there is no doubt...but the future is bright, I think I'll wear shades....

I'm out,

OilerFan.