Poker Face

CROWDED HOUSE

• Eric Belanger replaces Colin Fraser. Actually, he’s higher up the depth chart, so this signing has all kinds of implications for the roster. Belanger is an ideal 3line C who can check and score. A steady diet of own zone faceoffs is in his future, and that means that Shawn Horcoff, Sam Gagner, RNH, Andrew Cogliano and Anton Lander make for a crowded house at center. Three year deal means he’ll be here awhile, although it is such a cap friendly contract ST will probably be taking phone calls on him every deadline.
• Ben Eager replaces JF Jacques. Truculent and more skilled than JFJ, Eager is one of those players you hate until your team acquires him. The Oilers bought a guy who can actually play the game, agitate and perhaps as important may have a screw loose. The Oilers have been far too predictable for some time now and Eager is anything but, plus he can help some on offense (3rd in 5×5/points per 60 among Sharks LW’s a year ago, he posted even strength offense about as often as Ryan Jones). Another longer term deal that should be easily cashed if required.
• Cam Barker replaces Kurtis Foster. This is a risky signing, reminding me of the old Glen Sather days when he’d airlift one of two of these guys into town every summer. Barker is an offensive defenseman with a bomb for a shot, but has had only one really good NHL season in that role. He played 2.5 minutes a night for the Hawks a few years ago and that PP was so efficient (Barker had a high number of 2nd assists) the youngster’s numbers were pulled into elite territory. I don’t know that he can get back there, but that’s the bet. I’ve read a few people saying "there’s no risk, he’ll either play well or be gone after one season" but there’s playing time involved and youngsters in need of that playing time. Jeff Petry comes to mind. I’m hopeful Barker can make a difference–he was a high pick–but Oiler fans should be aware Barker’s NHL history doesn’t contain things like success against tough oppenents or a long running tradiiton of contributing to an effective powerplay.
• Andy Sutton replaces Jim Vandermeer. Huge defender will be used in more of an enforcer’s role and as mentor to the depth kids. In Ottawa in 09-10, he played tougher opposition and struggled, last season he was on easy street and performed better (in Anaheim). I’d guess he will be a third pairing defender and earn his keep by helping on the PK and as an enforcer.
• Darcy Hordichuk replaces Steve MacIntyre. Massive upgrade in hockey ability. Hordichuk is a willing fighter and can play the game. Strictly 4th line, his CorsiRel (I know) of -.5 was 8th best among Florida forwards a year ago; this compares with MacIntyre’s -29.1 in 10-11. I’m not trying to be mean here, but the difference is several miles. Hordichuk is a game rooster who plays with energy every shift. Oiler fans will love him.

A NICE SURPISE

• Scott Cullen from tsn. He tracked the UFA signings yesterday and that my friends was a full time job. We’ll discuss the Oilers moves, the Leafs lack of moves and Calgary’s chances of acquiring Brad Richards. 
• Kent Simpson from Team 1260’s Edmonton Oil Kings broadcasts. We’ll discuss the importance of playing in an advanced league like the WHL for young European players. Kent had a bird’s eye view of Kristians Pelss and his impressive development and we’ll discuss it and project new Oiler and Oil King Martin Gernat.
• Kirk Luedeke from Bruins draft Watch. Kirk LOVES the Oilers draft and we’ll ask him to give his overall impressions. Kirk probably has some good behind the scene stories from the draft action so we’ll try to pry those out too.
• Mike Spiedel from Hockey Symposium. Mike has taught me a lot about the draft and value picks over the years, and we’ll get his insight into just how many Oiler selections were "value" picks.
• Matt Bugg from Dobber Hockey. I interviewed Matt last weekend about the Oilers picks and will touch base on the subject again. I’ll also delve a little into the players not selected and ask if any of them might be worth signing to pro contracts.