NHL Roundtable: Offseason Winners and Losers

San Jose: San Jose has built one of the most exciting defenses in the Pacific Division, and probably one of the top blue lines in the conference. Blake, Boyle, and Lukowich add much needed life to a team that couldn't afford to keep Brian Campbell. I don't think anyone in the Bay area is missing his expensive contract now. Moreover, a new coach brings new excitement. Hell, I'm excited for these guys and I'm a Ducks fan! Any comments from MJ and Danielle on this topic should be ignored.

Chicago: During the off season they built a team that will continue to inch further and further towards making the playoffs. It wouldn't surprise me if this is the season they do.

Biggest Losers

Toronto: The most exciting team in Canada right? The team God made to play hockey? Then why does another free agency period go by and this team goes deeper and deeper into the depths of nothingness. The loss of Mats Sundin may not emotionally hurt this team, but they didn't seem a huge draw to any free agents. There are probably financial and other issues I am not aware of for not following the team, but I would expect more out of a team under pressure like the Leafs are. To the Leafs fans who jump me for "knowing nothing about the team" you're right, I don't live in Canada, nor follow them, but It hurts as a fan to see a team so historic be a joke in the NHL. Bottom line is the small moves made wont help this team.

Tampa Bay: How can a team be both a winner and a loser? For a team that built up like Barry Bonds this off season they did overlook defense and goaltending. With plenty of big name D-men they never seemed interested (I could be wrong) and moreover the only goalie they pursued was Kolzig as a backup. Personally, Kolzig would be my starter and would prepare Smith to be the starter in a few years, and have the two split time, not Kolzig ride the pine. Moreover, as much as I don't care for him why not make a play for Emery? You could have gotten him cheap, and when he's focused he is damn good.

Bryan Thiel (NHL Community Leader)

To be completely honest, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings are the biggest winners.

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