And that fool continued to trouble Ranger fans as he tinkered with the team's roster. While he can't be blamed for Brandon Prust's greed, he can be hung for his idea of a replacement: Arron Asham. As he did with Donald Brashear, Sather signed one of the most loathed members of the opposition (who is all but certain to disappoint). Check that, two of the most loathed members - he also added Islander Micheal Haley.
Given that Asham has be-Deviled, be-Flyered, be-Penguined, be-Islandered the Blueshirts in the past all we can hope is that he does the same dirty, infuriating things against everyone else.
The signs are not good, especially when compared to the man he is replacing. In his career Asham has played in MSG 27 times and racked up all of one goal, one assist and 33 PIM. Asham has not played a full 82 game campaign his entire career; despite his injuries Prust did the last two seasons. Prust had nine shorthanded points in his last 164 games; Asham has three in 756. Asham blocked 40 total shots over the last three years, Prust blocked 51 this season. HOWEVER, the one good quality they share is that their teammates respond when they fight. I've mentioned the Prust stat a few thousand times and the Pens went 6-1-1 last season when Asham dropped the gloves (and he won too, going 7-1 in those bouts).As for Haley, he is no more than a minor league neanderthal. With the group of prospects hitting Hartford this fall, it will be Haley's job to protect them. He has a long record with a good number of victories so hopefully he will intimidate the other teams into giving the kids who have futures some room.
Sadly Jonathan Audy-Marchessault won't be among them. The mite-sized scorer earned himself a spot in the Ranger franchise, earned himself a spot in the AHL All Star Game and Sather let him get away. It would have been nice to see JAM get a real shot with the Rangers, but that unlikely with Torts so at least Columbus will use him.
Another guy who had no future with the Rangers was Chad Johnson. Dos Nueve never earned the organization's trust but our old pal Maloney saw something and picked him up for the Coyotes. Like Al Montoya, he can go try to ply his trade in the desert.
John Mitchell is headed to the mountains as Colorado handed him a two-year deal. Tortorella may have loved him but few others did as he made some glaring mistakes and added virtually no offense.
Following that thread, Stu Bickel was re-signed by the Rangers. Tortorella's scapegoat, Stu will be back for two more seasons - or roughly a half hour of ice time - under the head coach's reign.
Kris Newbury also decided to return, taking a two-year, two-way contract. Heard he was a good team guy with the Whale so that will be good for the future Blue.
The near future is certain to see more moves, whether they be signings or trades. Gabby will be out for a while and, given the type of surgery, may never be the player he was again. So there is a mighty Nash/Parise/Whoever-sized hole in the lineup. It will be interesting to see which side of Sather addresses it.
Disappointing Opening Day of Free Agency: Analyzing the Impact
The opening day of free agency in the world of sports is often marked by excitement, anticipation, and high expectations. Fans eagerly await the signings of star players, while teams seek to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season. However, not every free agency period lives up to the hype, and disappointment can set in when anticipated deals fail to materialize. In this article, we will dissect the reasons behind a disappointing opening day of free agency, examine the ripple effects on teams and players, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to this phenomenon.
Section 1: The Build-Up to Free Agency
The lead-up to free agency is filled with speculation and rumors:
Anticipation: Fans and analysts generate excitement by speculating on potential signings, trades, and roster changes.
Team Preparations: Teams meticulously plan their strategies, targeting specific players who can fill critical roles or elevate their performance.
Player Expectations: Free agents eagerly await offers, envisioning lucrative contracts and new opportunities.
Section 2: The Disappointment Unveiled
Despite the anticipation, not every free agency period delivers immediate gratification:
Failed Signings: Deals that appeared imminent can fall through due to a variety of reasons, including contract disputes, medical concerns, or changes in team priorities.
Overly Competitive Market: A highly competitive free agency market can lead to inflated contract demands and the inability to secure preferred players.
Changing Landscape: The unpredictability of free agency is compounded by shifting team dynamics, coaching changes, and unforeseen developments.
Section 3: Impact on Teams and Players
A disappointing opening day of free agency has implications for both teams and players:
Team Fractures: Teams may face internal discord or disappointment when highly touted signings do not materialize as expected.
Player Uncertainty: Players who anticipated lucrative contracts may face uncertainty and have to recalibrate their expectations.
Alternative Strategies: Teams must quickly adapt and consider alternative strategies to address roster needs.
Section 4: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Opening Day of Free Agency
Let's address some common questions related to the dynamics of opening day in free agency:
Why do deals often fall through on opening day of free agency?
Deals can fall through due to disagreements over contract terms, medical concerns, unexpected complications, or shifts in team priorities.
How do teams adjust when their anticipated signings do not materialize?
Teams may explore alternative signings, adjust their strategies, or focus on player development within their existing rosters.
Do players who do not secure deals on the opening day of free agency miss out on opportunities?
While immediate deals are highly sought after, players can still find suitable opportunities in the days and weeks following the opening of free agency.
Section 5: The Road Ahead
A disappointing opening day of free agency does not dictate the entire free agency period:
Ongoing Negotiations: Teams and players continue to negotiate and explore opportunities in the free agency market.
Mid-Range Signings: Mid-range signings can still significantly impact a team's performance and roster dynamics.
Trade Possibilities: Teams may also explore trade possibilities to address their needs.
A disappointing opening day of free agency in the world of sports serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the market. While initial setbacks can be disheartening, the dynamics of free agency are fluid, and opportunities for teams and players to improve their positions persist throughout the offseason. As free agency progresses, fans, teams, and players will closely monitor developments, hoping to see their desired outcomes materialize in the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports.
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