The Big Guns

More analysis on our "talent" filled roster starting with the new guys.....

Dan Boyle- When BC bolted for Chicago during Free Agency everyone including myself was crying over the loss of the smooth skating and offensive minded defensemen. (as much as Shark fans hated his playoff performance, one must admit he was the best Sharks defensemen they have had in a long time). Props for DW bringing in one of the top 5 defensemen in the league. That's right Dan Boyle is that good. The added bonus here is that he has a right handed shot and can actually score. While Campbell was good at passing and skating his ability to slap the puck was fairly week. This should not be an issue with Boyle as he can skate shoot and pass equally well. Fans will, mark my words forget about Campbell and relish Boyle for the next five years.

Rob Blake- This 38 year old defensemen who turns 39 in December was an expensive acqusition- 5yr 1 million deal. Was this a good move? Time will tell whether the one time Norris Trophy and Cup winner still has anything left. For DW to fork over that much money means he believes that he does. Looking at Detroit's older statemen in Chelios and Lidstrom, one would hope Blake can still bring it. His biggest asset will be his shot from the point. Also being right handed, I would imagine McCllelan using him on power play units. His mere presence on the power play is enough to effectively change the way teams prepare for the Sharks. In the past we all know Joe would hang out on the halfboards and play catch with Patty in the right wing corner. Teams would always collapse down low to take away the lower part of the net due to a lack of scoring threat from the point. This should change with Blake.