Battle For Ohio

{Quick sidebar here – It’s good to be back.  Grad school is finally over, and all that time will be directed back to the best sport going.  Now you won’t be stuck with so much Bungles coverage…}

Columbus GM Scott Howeson knows he’s on the hot seat.  With the franchise being in the league 10 years now, and only making the playoffs one time (a 4-0 sweep by Detroit), he knows he is running out of time with the fans.  Ohio fans are a rabid bunch as we all know, and they have been incredibly patient with this team.  We’ve seen their record improve steadily over the past few seasons before taking a step back in 2009, but that isn’t going to get it done in the loaded Western Conference.   He knew it was time to push his chips to the center and make a big move – and on Thursday he did.  A big one.  Finally.  He acquired center Jeff Carter from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Jacub Voracek and Columbus’ 1st and 3rd round picks in this years NHL Draft.  I liked Voracek a lot, and am sad to see him go.  But you have to give something to get something, and it is well enough that he’s a Restricted Free Agent at the end of the year anyway. 

Why I Like the Deal:
1) The Jackets have not drafted well historically, and trading potential for proven is never a bad move.
2) Carter is a legit first line center and adds offense to a team whose offense has been anemic for a decade.  His last 3 years – 81, 61, and 66 points respectively.  Nash’s last 3 years – 79, 67, and 66 points.
3) It shows that they are committed to winning now.  I expect a few more deals to occur before the summer is over, as they have plenty of cap space to do so.  Watch for a defenseman next.
4) Carter is signed long term to a reasonable contract.  Having a player like him for a little more than $5mil per year for another decade is solid.  Plus if it doesn’t work out, it is a moveable contract.

Why I don’t Like the Deal:
1) Carter is a great center, but more of a scorer than playmaker.  I would have liked more of a pure passer to compliment Nash, but opponents will have to respect his goal scoring ability so it might work out better in the end.
2) They gave up a lot.  Voracek and two draft picks are a haul.  He is going to be very good, and should make an impact quickly in Philly.  I would have liked Howeson to try and get a late round pick back as well.
3) Carter hasn’t responded to Howeson’s calls yet.  This is slightly concerning, and I hope he’s got enough character to deal with this professionally.

Overall, it is good to see Scott Howeson make a big move and with a team other than Edmonton.  I like the acquisition overall and think it makes the first line and powerplay instantly better.  After this weekend’s NHL draft, a  draft recap and offseason report will commence in the coming days.  Until then, keep your stick on the ice…