Same thing I just set up in another scenario except, now way do you need to pay Soup more then $750K, he wants to retire a Hawk. Also, don't think Vanek gets much beyond $2M, obviously nobody has picked him up for a reason. I think the biggest issue is Schmaltz is better on the wing then at Center, while I agree picking up Soup and Vanek, we need a Center desperately.

I actually really like the line-up. Vanek isn't close to my favorite player since he takes off plays defensively sometimes. Hard seeing Q allow that for too long, but he's kinda what's left out there.



I hear ya that Campbell wants to retire a Hawk, but for someone who's made his money...is $750k worth putting your body through another NHL season? I'd say keep the $1M OR even a slight increase as long as there's no bonus for next year. Next year they'll make a few more waives with getting an extra $9M in cap (assuming Hossa is traded). I have to slightly disagree with you on the center. Anisimov had 1 bad series and was hurt. His F/O% actually isn't terrible for the season. 45% It's actually higher than a lot of other #2Cs. Could they use a F/O specialist...I wouldn't argue with that at all. As far as Schmaltz @ LW, he has talent and the Hawks needed to put someone @ #1LW last year, but he's a better center despite his lack of time there. He's an assist guy that's sneaky, but doesn't play the boards particularly well. The counter is his F/O% stinks which is true, but he's still very young and needs work, but the third line duty should fit him nicely with a vet next to him.

The only thing I'd question is Campbell. I think Samuelsson is going to be establishing an entirely new D system predicted on speed and quick decision making. Not sure Campbell is what he'd be looking for.

Forgot to rate it, good job look for a faster D man that plays with snarl.

Thanks for the feedback, fellas. I honestly think that this team is only a 2LW and 2LD (and face-off specialist) away from being a Cup favorite. I think Vanek fills 2LW. Not sold on Forsling/Kempny/Campbell as 2LD, though. And still need a face-off guy...wish we could have gotten Dominic Moore.