I'm just as confused as you are with some of the signings. I think Yzerman is really trying to make the young guys work and prove they deserve a spot on the roster while also helping to create a winning environment even if they don't win every game.

Well we do have injuries to start the season, walman and pysyk are both out so edvinsson has a real chance at a spot. Is suspect ras is on the wing on the 4th line and veleno centers and Erne is the extra forward.

Would make more sense, Veleno just won't get much better while playing 4th line minutes is all.

Most of these guys can be scratched or waived with no issue (Walman/Sundqvist/Erne/Smith/Psysk/etc).

If the younger guys earn the spot I fully expect them to get it. This ain't Holland's Wings no more.

Walman will probably miss at least half of the season after shoulder surgery.

Oh I didn't know this

No its not ideal but I don't want him going back to the AHL

All the signings do a few things: 1. Improve depth of NHL-caliber players, last year's roster was thin especially after injuries. 2. Improve competitiveness in games and not get blown out 11-1 a couple of times a month. 3. Bring fans back to JLA...uh...LCA because that's where the money comes from. 3. Improve GR which is better off if they have a fantastic season with players that are right on the edge of making the NHL. 4. If necessary, opens trade options for teams in real playoff contention. 5. Not start the year with 2-3 rookies and 3-4 first year players all in the lineup at the same time.