Comments for July 8, 2012 at http://hockey.dobbersports.com , comment 1 to 3 out of 3 comments http://hockey.dobbersports.com Sat, 18 May 2013 14:33:33 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php/home-mainmenu-1/24-rambling/4758-july-8-2012#comment-21714 I agree that Gagner is likely to be moved as a chip in acquiring a top-end blue-liner for the Oilers. I'd also agree with Chicago as a possible destination, but I think you're counting out a few teams who have defensemen to burn and need a centerman. Florida could easily afford to give up either Jovanovski or Kuba, being that they have Robak to bring into the fold for this year. Moreover, their 2nd centerman right now is Marcel Goc who, while he's a great shutdown centerman, is better suited to 3rd line duties. This could give the 2nd line a big offensive boost, especially with Huberdeau coming in for 2012-13. Toronto would be wise to pursue Gagner as well. They're currently counting on Tim Connolly to center their 2nd line. He's not exactly known for playing 82 games, so it would behoove Leafs' brass to perpare themselves for this eventuality. Otherwise, those rumors about JVR moving to the middle might actually turn out to be true. The other end of this is that the Leafs still have Komisarek, Liles & Franson who could all be moved for the right return. Gagner might just be their man, this time. Finally, Vancouver has every reason to pursue Gagner, in order to plug the hole that Kesler will leave for the first month of the season. Especially with five top-4 defensemen in Hamhuis, Garrison, Ballard, Bieksa, and Edler, the 'Nucks would be smart to move one of them for a center. Equally, Gagner's a fairly effective playmaker, something the 'Nucks are desperately missing beyond their top line. Admittedly, these two divisional rivals don't trade much, but it would be a smart hockey trade for both of them. - number54 Sun, 08 Jul 2012 17:29:19 +0100 http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php/home-mainmenu-1/24-rambling/4758-july-8-2012#comment-21705 The more I look at the backup situation in Winnipeg the more i'm convinced it was a good signing. Montoya will do just fine with the Jets. Dubnyk is going to be a beast this season. I think you hit the "Nail" on the head there with your Oilers predictions, and in drawing the Penguins comparison. When they get that D man they covet (whoever it is) they're going to be hard to beat. Just have to stay healthy. I've seen people throwing around Eberle trade scenarios in the forums. Not a chance... - Nate Sun, 08 Jul 2012 08:57:55 +0100 http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php/home-mainmenu-1/24-rambling/4758-july-8-2012#comment-21704 Sam Gagner would be a perfect fit in Chicago. - angus Sun, 08 Jul 2012 08:49:34 +0100