As with the UFA's, its closing in on the deadline, lets take the time remaining before the Olympic break to discuss the RFA situation here in Buffalo.

Clarke MacArthur
This is the 1 top 6 player I would move in a trade. Streaky offensively, has anyone else noticed just how many times he loses an edge on his skate by the boards and behind the net? Also, not a big body. He and a D man or some other type of package could bring in some talent that could find chemistry here in Buffalo. I don't see him being moved for a rental, but there could be a Center/RWer out there that he may help bring in on a package deal. I see Gerbe in his position next season, thoughts?

Tim Kennedy
I truly believe Lindy forcing this kid to center was an incredible mistake. He has tenacity, he skates very good, has great puck control, especially in the offensive zone corners, along the boards and behind the net. The question I ask, is he the replacement to Grier in a couple of years or is he a dangler in the making? How much and How long on the next contract and do we sign the extension prior to FA so we lock him up? Thoughts?

Patrick Kaleta
Pretty much a no brainer here, the only question I have, How much and How long on the contract? Thoughts?

Mark Mancari
So, this should be an interesting player to speak on. Whats the final outcome on this players future with the organization? He will probably not want to sign an extension with Buffalo, so, do we make an effort to move him at the deadline, or at the draft? Thoughts?

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Lord Stanley's Cup is what its all about.
Mr. Pegula, your destiny awaits you sir.

Mancari and MacArthur are expendable players, use em as trade pawns for picks or other talent.

MacArthur - I agree that he is expendable. He's increased his production while his defensive game remains horrible. His numbers will make him trade-able, so I would think real hard about a trade deadline move, but only if Darcy is already confident that he won't re-sign him anyway. Ennis and Gerbe are primed to take Mac's spot anyway, so I don't see much point in keeping him. Using him to obtain Ray Whitney would be pretty solid. If he gets re-signed it should be for only one season.

Kennedy - He's not big or strong enough to play the wing, so I think center is his best position. If he bulks up and gets stronger this summer I expect him to be a solid 1-2 center, replacing Connolly if he doesn't get re-signed again. Kennedy should ink a long term deal...3-4 years.

Kaleta - Sign him for 2-4 years.

Mancari - I'd like to think he could step up with some motivation to make the team and stay, especially if Grier does not return. I suppose that's a pipe dream though, and he probably wants to leave anyway.

Trade MacArthur...or do something with him. I'm not a big Mac fan, and he's incredibly expendable.

Resign Patty and Timmy.

Let that useless slug Mancari go.

Completely agree

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re-sign kennedy, and kaleta. the rest trade.

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"Tis The Season, Fa la la la la LaFontaine" - Rick Jeanneret

I would love to see Kennedy on wing with Goose and Grier. That would put up some great production for what types of players they are. We could then have Mair center Ellis and Kaleta. The top 6 are fine the way they are, but could be improved through a trade. This leaves Mac the odd man out and could be used for trade bait as everyone has said.

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"Hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid." ~ Han Solo


We truly are not worthy of Miller!

I'd honestly be ok with us moving MacArthur in a package at the deadline to Dallas to get Steve Ott and Jere Lehtinen

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"She's like plan C after an 18 pack"

Squanto 7/27/2010

I assume Kennedy will get a 2 year deal, and Kaleta will get something similar to Gaustad's. In terms of length.

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"...they came down into the stands and asked if I knew how to do play by play. I said...No. But. I'll take a shot at it if you want".- Rick Jeanneret