Leaving-
Tommy Cross-D
Edwin Shea-D
Brian Dumoulin-D
Chris Kreider- F
Barry Almeida-F
Paul Carey-F
Chris Venti-G
Tommy Atkinson-F
So we obviously lose some firepower up front but the big hole will be on defense. Tommy Cross and Brian Dumoulin both played huge minutes this season for the team and were a huge part of the team's success. None the less, guys like Pat Wey, Isaac Macleod, and Patch Alber will need to step up. The two big name recruits the staff has coming in next year are Mike Matheson and Travis Jeke. In order for this team to do well, both of these guys are really going to have to have big freshman years. Here is how I see the defense looking. (By ranking)
1. Pat Wey
2. Mike Matheson
3. Isaac Macleod
4.Patch Alber
5.Travis Jeke
6. Mark Begert/Another freshman. Doherty maybe
Up front, I really like the way this team looks next year. Like always, the Eagles have a nucleus of core guys that can really create plays in the offensive zone. The big four returning next year will be Johnny Gaudreau, Pat Mullane, Steve Whitney, and Bill Arnold. These guys are going to carry the load for the Eagles on the offensive end as each one of them has the ability to score goals and make plays. In terms of freshman coming in, the big name to watch out for is Frank Vatrano out of the US Development Program. Vatrano has recorded a solid 33 points so far this season for the US Under 18 team. Look for him to be the big addition on the offensive side of the puck. There are also some guys coming back that could really shine in bigger roles. I think the fourth line of Danny Linell-Quinn Smith-Mike Sit was great this season and all three guys could be poised to have big years next year.
The best part about next year is knowing we have the best goaltender in the country returning. Going into this season we didn't know what to expect from Parker Milner but the last two months he has been unbelievable. He could be playing for the Flyers right now (I am writing this during their 10 goal game versus Pittsburgh). I think having Parker back will be huge for the Eagles next season. I mean look around Hockey East, BU loses Millan, Merrimack loses Cannata, PC loses Beaudry, and UVM loses Madore. Those are all some pretty good goalies that teams are losing.
Anyways, here is how I see the lineup looking on opening night next year. This is very early but it is a good ballpark guess.
Offense
Gaudreau-Mullane-Linell
Smith-Arnold-Whitney
Straight-Hayes-Vatrano
Brown-Sit-Silk/McMullen (Freshman)
Defense
Wey-Jeke
Macleod-Matheson
Alber-Begert
Goalie- Parker Milner
Well, there it is, obviously that will change as we get closer to opening night but for now, I think that is a pretty reasonable guess. We could move Whitney and Linell but I like Whitney and Arnold together like they were this year. Whitney and Gaudreau would be very dangerous though.
Until next time,
GO EAGLES
Taking a (Very) Early Look at Next Year's Lineup
In the world of sports, there's a special excitement that comes with looking ahead to the next season. Even before the final whistle of the current season, fans, analysts, and coaches are already pondering what the future holds for their favorite teams. In this article, we'll take a (very) early look at next year's lineup for a particular team, exploring the potential roster changes, key storylines, and addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this exciting time of transition.
Section 1: The Offseason Anticipation
The Offseason Buzz: An introduction to the anticipation and eagerness that mark the transition from one season to the next.
The Team in Focus: Identifying the team we'll be discussing and their recent performance.
Section 2: Roster Changes and Additions
A deep dive into the potential changes and additions that could shape the team's lineup for the upcoming season:
Player Departures: Examining the departures of key players, whether due to graduation, trades, or free agency, and their impact on the team.
Rookie Prospects: Highlighting promising young prospects or rookies who could make their debut next season and the excitement surrounding their potential contributions.
Section 3: Coaching Decisions and Strategies
Exploring the role of coaching decisions and strategies in shaping the team's future:
Coaching Changes: Discussing any coaching changes, including new hires or extensions, and their influence on the team's direction.
Tactical Shifts: Analyzing potential tactical adjustments or shifts in playing style that the coaching staff may implement in the upcoming season.
Section 4: Key Storylines to Watch
Identifying the most intriguing storylines and narratives that will captivate fans and analysts in the offseason and beyond:
Team Identity: Exploring how the team aims to define its identity for the next season and what values or principles it intends to uphold.
Rivalries and Grudge Matches: Previewing anticipated matchups against arch-rivals or teams with historical feuds, adding extra spice to the schedule.
Section 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Offseason Speculation
Addressing common questions and discussions related to the excitement of the offseason:
How do teams approach roster decisions in the offseason, and what factors influence their choices?
Insights into the complex decision-making process that teams go through to build their rosters.
Are there any historical precedents for teams that made significant offseason changes and achieved success in the following season?
Examining success stories of teams that rebuilt or retooled during the offseason and reaped the rewards.
How do fans engage with the team during the offseason, and what are some popular traditions or rituals associated with this time of year?
Discussing the various ways fans show their support and excitement during the offseason, from ticket sales to fan forums.
Section 6: Conclusion
As we take this (very) early look at next year's lineup, we're reminded of the unending cycle of hope, anticipation, and excitement that defines the world of sports. The offseason represents a blank canvas upon which teams can paint their dreams of future success. Whether it's the thrill of new signings, the promise of young talent, or the wisdom of seasoned veterans, every team and its fans have their eyes set on the horizon, eager to see what the next season will bring. It's a time of transition, transformation, and renewed hope, where the possibilities are endless, and the journey is just beginning.
No comments:
Post a Comment