Campbell To The Exit Door?

by SamFels on Mar 1, 2009 3:33 AM CST

Tonight, on Hockey Night In Canada's Hot Stove, Al Strachan reported (so be fairly skeptical) that Coach Q and Brian Campbell are having it out over 51 Phantom's playing time, and that though the Hawks aren't shopping Soupy, they'll listen.

This is an interesting story on so many levels. First off, it is highly, highly unlikely that the Hawks would find any takers for such a ridiculous contract. That being said, it's pretty clear Q is not enamored with Campbell. He booted him off the PK months ago, and on a couple occasions has removed him from the first PP unit. Campbell's never been that great in his own zone, this was not a secret when we signed him. Phantom has gotten his fair share of abuse on these boards and others, but you can't ignore the addition to the PP that he's provided, which is a big reason the Hawks are where they are. He and Keith are also the only transition game the Hawks have from the backend. There are certainly nights when 51 Phantom looks out of it, like against the Pens. But there are others, like say against Minnesota last Sunday, where he is absolutely flying and making things happen. He is certainly an effective player.

There are other consequences as well of any potential deal, however unlikely. It is this observer's opinion that it would set a dangerous precendent to be shipping off a prized free agent signing mere months after bringing him to town. Other players would notice that, and remember it when being courted by the Hawks. If they got over that, they would have to be overpaid or treated to a no-trade, which can become quite the fucking handicap. Ask the Leafs how they feel about those.

On the other hand, the cap space makes you drool, doesn't it? Those extensions to Toews, Kane, Toews, and Bolland don't seem so hard. Resigning Mach 24 Havlat is in reach. Campbell and Khabby gone would mean 13 million freed up. Nothing will happen, almost certainly, but still, stay tuned.

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I think they have it right

to not shop and just listen for offers. Campbell’s play can be distressing at times. Would like to see him stay, but something has to change.

Torn on a decision between Khabby and Huet — but my God, do yourselves a favor and free up some money already. I do have to say that the experiment known as “net-minder-by-committee” was working pretty well prior to injuries. The money doesn’t completely justify it though. Its a coin flip, but I think Khabby will be gone soon.

by surveyor on Mar 1, 2009 7:03 AM CST reply actions

The fact is Campbell's contract

will be a bigger issue every year. Year 7 of the deal will be difficult for the Hawks when he loses his wheels. If we can clear some cap space and get something in return (2nd line C) it’s a deal you make in the long run. The Hawks championship window is currently open (esp. if Det/SJ slip up.) However there is no need to trade a lot of future assets when the Hawks best chance to win looks about 1-3 years from now.

"Oh, that's easy. White Sox. I'm not one of these fair-weather fans. You go to Wrigley Field, you have a beer; beautiful people up there. People aren't watching the game. It's not serious. White Sox, that's baseball. South Side." -O'Bama

by Hawk is God on Mar 1, 2009 12:38 PM CST reply actions

Interesting

I saw the clip off this on CBC this morning. I’m not sure if I would want Spezza. He is good, but he is also streaky. I do think they should look to move Campbell, but should wait until the off season.

As for now, I’d like to see a Seabrook & Skille for Jokinen. I’d like to see Buff moved to Anaheim or some other team for a prospect or a draft pick. I say Anaheim because I don’t think they wouldn’t turn down a Penner like player.They were stunned when he left and would pick up a guy like him if available. I’d also like to see them pick up a guy like Dan Hinote. He is a veteran, he brings a physical presence, and he is good on the penalty kill.

by massey1984 on Mar 1, 2009 1:50 PM CST reply actions

Strachan at it again?

What kind of journalism is this? On what does he base this on? Given the Hawks tattered reputation in the past I see NO REASON that the Hawks would ever conceive the notion of trading away Campbell considering how RARE offensive defencemen are to find ! Another Toronto journalist jealous of the Hawks current success, ‘cause if the Hawks were to be victorious in their pursuit of the Lord Stanley it would be the Leafs, or should I say LAFFS, be become the successor of the NHL’s longest Cup drought!!!

by hawks61 on Mar 1, 2009 8:05 PM CST reply actions

Another Toronto journalist jealous of the Hawks current success, ‘cause if the Hawks were to be victorious in their pursuit of the Lord Stanley it would be the Leafs, or should I say LAFFS, be become the successor of the NHL’s longest Cup drought!!!

Strachan’s reputation as a “journalist” is well-known – as in he has no reputation and he’s pretty much hated everywhere. Even Toronto doesn’t want him, so let’s not make this a Maple Leafs thing. You should learn the background of Strach, since if anything, Strachan is jealous of the Leafs because Burke absolutely hates him and he’s shut out of the loop for good in Toronto.

And “Laffs”? Haven’t heard that one before :P

Supporter of the Sergei Berezin "Give and Go" - You give me puck, then you go to hell

by bkblades on Mar 1, 2009 8:28 PM CST up reply actions

First off, Strachan is a blowhard and hasn’t been right in decades. He’s worse than Eklund – that is no exaggeration either.

Second off, there’s no chance anyone takes his contract – not in this economic climate, not in the salary cap era. The hawks greatly overpaid him during a time when marginal to great players were getting superstar cash.

Look to see Buff, Barker and Sopel disposed of one way or another – with Ladd, Bolland, Versteeg, Toews, Kane, Eager, Brouwer and Wiz all up for raises relatively soon, they need cap space… bad.

Don't be afraid to take a few steps back, but you better keep moving forward.

by wlittle on Mar 1, 2009 11:27 PM CST reply actions