As I've seen Smith play probably a good 40+ games per season the past 6 seasons, I guess I can make an educated guess as to what he'll bring to the table. Grit, solid defensive instincts and leadership would be the main 3. He never gives up on a play, blocks shots like you'd never believe and plays through pain, usually every single game. He makes people pay when they have their head down along the boards, not a huge hitter, but at 6"3, 225, he can easily battle with the biggest power forwards. What I've noticed though, and really, not that many people have, is that his stick is always active, and always in the right place when he's standing in front of the net. You won't see many deflected goals into our own net by Smith. With him and Kukonnen, I can see them being +15 and beyond for the season.
Agree with almost everything Andy, except the fact that you predict a 80-90 point season for Briere and that Calgary will runaway with their division.
Briere will have the tools, certainly to get that many playing with Gagne and Knuble, but our system is quite a lot different than that of the Sabres. I don't see him getting quite the room as he got before. Don't get me wrong, Carter is a future #1 center, but right now he lacks the polish, so Briere will be counted on and watched for. He didn't quite have the same pressure in Buffalo with Drury and company helping him out. But hopefully he'll prove me wrong.
And the Northwest, while it will be close, I think Colorado will finish first and really put up a battle in the playoffs. This is pretty much the same team that went on a huge winning streak at the end of last season to almost squeak in at that 8th seed position. Team remains unchanged, except for two huge additions, Smyth and Hannan. Calgary will have their hands full.  |