This was seriously my first thought when i found out they could be bought out now. Realistically though i think there would only be a small chance at Redden, no way for Gomez.
Both these guys have the ability to play in the NHL it is their contracts keeping them out. If they sign for around 1 million that is a good deal, I can even see Gomez getting a little more he actually does a good job controlling play hasn't lost a step just had a brutal go of it on a big deal in two big markets. I think a team like Nashville or Columbus would be wise to target him. Redden is a decent puck mover and a good number five or six now. I want bigger targets but should they strike out, as stop gaps you can do a lot worse than these two not that anyone wants to hear that around here. Cannot see either one right now but have no problem with either assuming is part of a much bigger plan.
Last edited by The Zetterberg Era: 01-15-2013 at 03:24 PM.
On a side note to this will we take them, I am glad the NHL and NHLPA came to a quick decision on this. I thought the NHLPA would have to file something in relation to these two guys being "bubble wrapped" and had a compelling case.
In a shortened season and the possibility to grab better players before the salary crunch...I'd pass on both. Although these 2 are serviceable or better, rather see what we got and/or make a big trade
If I had to pick, I'd say neither, but I voted both because why not? Be sort of funny if it happens. I think Gomez might be a fair signing, though - provided there's an injury or two, and/or Holland is willing to move a forward (Miller). Our center depth (or lack of it) has come up lately, and we know it impacts our ability to roll four good lines - especially of the three scoring lines/one grind line format. Helm's already hurt. Abdelkader is better on the wing. etc. With Gomez, we can have that extra line that can realistically be expected to score a few goals.
Do I love that third line? No. Does it need to play as much as our fourth line? Also no. But I like the make-up of those lines more than I like our current lines.
Also, if there is an injury to a wing in that top9, I like the idea of slotting Tatar/Nyquist in next to Gomez than next to Helm.
Rip it apart. Say we don't need more old guys (and if the summer had played out differently, I'd probably agree). But I can see how Gomez could work out well with what we have.
I have no idea about Redden since he hasn't played in the NHL in so long. I would be willing to give him a look, because the D is looking pretty squiffy this year and he's got to be better than Kindl and Colaiacovo.
Gomez, for a cheaper contract, is still okay. They've been wanting to add a top six winger for a long time. Yes, I know he's a center, but that never stops the Wings from putting them on the wing either with Dats or Z. Or he could center one of the bottom six lines.
As for Redden... Our blue line is pretty spotty. He could be a top 4-5 guy easily. Just now sure what condition he's in. NYR put him in the A to get cap relief because they've been seriously trying to load up. On a cheaper contract, and a chance to impress on a good team, he just might up his game.
They have one thing Holland loves: NHL Experience.
I voted neither. I can see Redden pulling a Brent Sopel and perhaps coming to training camp next season and then signing with someone like Chicago or St Louis or Nashville since we are not likely to offer him as much money.
Or he could center one of the bottom six lines. 
