2. What will the Bruins do with Tim Thomas? (Be as specific as possible.)
After the long lockout, he'll decide that he wants to come back for the short season, but he will not play in Boston...he will be traded for a 3rd round pick (probably not, but...)
3. Which player will be the most pleasant surprise?
Spoons
4. Which player will disappoint?
Hamilton...only b/c of the high expectations. He'll be fine for a rookie, but Claude will work him in slowly and he will spend some nights dressed in a suit and tie instead of actually playing...people will be impatient and want him to have a bigger role on the team.
5. What will be the biggest surprise of the year? (Transaction, result, etc.)
In reference to #2: Tim Thomas will play at some point this season, and play well...just not for Boston.
Hamilton will disappoint the many who will have or have already placed personal expectations on him before he's played one pro minute. Viewing any games scratched or a mistake here or there as major steps back.
I will do my best to evaluate him in an area that is awfully tough when not in the locker room, hanging with the B's off ice or at practice and that's his ability to soak up every bit of lessons CJ, his staff and fellow teammates teach by word and example.
The kid will have stumbles, show me a rook outside of an elite talent who hasn't.....kid will be crucified each game here and THAT is my 100% guaranteed prediction.
I'd be more comfortable if Chia somehow acquired another option for the #6/#7 slot. Perhaps a low-risk move, similar to Rolston last season? Maybe a few dmen will become available via amnesty buyout, perhaps looking to sign for shorter coin?
I'd be more comfortable if Chia somehow acquired another option for the #6/#7 slot. Perhaps a low-risk move, similar to Rolston last season? Maybe a few dmen will become available via amnesty buyout, perhaps looking to sign for shorter coin?
Going into the season, I am okay with it. Although, I would not be happy with that alignment going into the playoffs, should Hamilton not emerge right away as a legit top 4 D-man (I think expecting that year one in a shortened season is not realistic). So, if they get to the trade deadline and don't make a move for some veteran depth, I would be a little concerned. Don't get me wrong, I fully believe the Bruins will be one of the stingier defensive teams in the league again this year, but it's always nice to have some depth heading into the post-season. I expect Garnet Exelby to get some minutes early on as the 6/7 D. He will bring some toughness and he might be a better player on a better team. He's -28 career, but he has played on some pitiful teams.
2. What will the Bruins do with Tim Thomas? (Be as specific as possible.)
Ask him if he wants to play. If not, buyout. If someone wants him, trade him for anything. If he doesn't want to play, then move on. But let's be honest, Rask-Thomas is much better than Rask-Khudobin. As much as some of us hate the guy, including me as of late, he still wins games. You don't have to read his Facebook. Then let him walk next season, if he agrees to play.
3. Which player will be the most pleasant surprise?
Either Rask or Seguin. Especially in a shortened season, Seguin will be close to a PPG average, while Rask will prove that he's capable of being this team's #1.
4. Which player will disappoint?
Hamilton, but not in a bad way. He's a rookie who's main issue is decision making. He's going to get teared apart. It's going to take some time for him to become a solid NHL defenseman, let alone our #1. He's going to have a year similar to Seguin's rookie season. He's turned out OK.
5. What will be the biggest surprise of the year? (Transaction, result, etc.)
A bottom 5 team (Oilers, Habs, Leafs, or Islanders, because let's be honest Columbus has no chance) will make the playoffs.
I'd be more comfortable if Chia somehow acquired another option for the #6/#7 slot. Perhaps a low-risk move, similar to Rolston last season? Maybe a few dmen will become available via amnesty buyout, perhaps looking to sign for shorter coin?
