Roster/Rumors/Speculation/Trade Talk - 2024-25: Re-Tool, Re-Group, Re-Mix, Re-Build

[YearlyLottery]

I don’t see Nelson or Palms getting traded if the Isles are within close distance to the playoffs. Nor do I see either player resigning. IMO most likely scenario is both walk as free agents.

This would be just as big of a mistake as not trading Tavares was.

 

[sabremike]

I haven't seen Bridgeport play this year. Has Ishakov's departure contributed to the dreadful numbers for Maggio and Dufour?

Just wondering if we do sell, what the call ups might look like.

I was there last night and I think this sums thing up nicely:

Bridgeport has played 15 home games this season and have won exactly ONCE. They are only a point ahead of Utica for the wooden spoon in the East despite having played 5 more games.

 

[Skip To My Lou]

I don’t see Nelson or Palms getting traded if the Isles are within close distance to the playoffs. Nor do I see either player resigning. IMO most likely scenario is both walk as free agents.

If Lou is really that short sighted, I don't know what else to do. How many more times are we going to make the playoffs, only to get murdered in the first round?

I'm tired man. I love our guys and I love how loyal they are to the Island and to this organization. But if you really love something, you got to let it fly. Let Brock and Palms try to win a cup elsewhere, and stop wasting time for guys like Barzal, Dobson, Horvat, Sorokin.

 

[Glory Days]

This would be just as big of a mistake as not trading Tavares was.

I agree but I could see that happening. Lou doesn’t trade pending free agents as he typically resigns them. But in this case needing cap room I could see him letting them walk. Again not smart but I could see that happening.

 

[Tahoeblue]

My next blog post - Taking a deeper dive on a Nelson trade. My next one will be on Palmieri - enjoy the read...

Top 6 Nelson Landing Spots: Carolina, Colorado, Dallas, Minnesota, Winnipeg, and Utah

Brock Nelson could be the crown jewel of the 2025 NHL trade deadline. Among the contenders for his services, Dallas, Minnesota, Carolina, and Colorado all stand out as teams in need of a strong second-line center—and most could potentially re-sign him. While Utah and Winnipeg are longer shots (despite Nelson’s proximity to the Manitoba border growing up), they remain in the conversation due to their need for a dynamic 2C.

DALLAS
Starting with Dallas, a package of their 2025 first-round pick and top prospect Mavrik Bourque (C/RW) could be a great package for the Islanders in a deal for Nelson. Though steep for a rental, the Stars are uniquely positioned to make this deal. With Seguin sidelined until the playoffs, Dallas can leverage LTIR to add a high-impact player like Nelson without immediate cap concerns. Beyond this season, the Stars are in an enviable position to re-sign Nelson due to upcoming cap flexibility and the state tax incentive that often appeals to free agents. Their roster is built to contend now and in the future, with major contracts—such as Benn, Duchene, and Dadonov—set to come off the books. Adding Nelson would allow Wyatt Johnston to stay at RW1, maintaining the balance and strength of their forward group.

If Bourque and a first-round pick are too much for Dallas, a reasonable alternative might include their 2025 first-round pick paired with Emil Hemming (RW) or a 2026 second-rounder. However, given Nelson’s status as a consistent scorer and strong playoff performer, the Islanders should aim for a return centred around a first-round pick in the 20-26 range and a high-quality prospect.

MINNESOTA
Since Brock Nelson hails from Minnesota, the Wild are often seen as a logical landing spot. In addition to that, there is a longstanding relationship between Lou Lamoriello and Bill Guerin, and it’s easy to envision both sides finding common ground. However, Minnesota’s limited draft capital complicates a potential deal. The Wild lack a 2025 first-round pick, and their 2026 first is tied up in a conditional trade. While their 2025 pick will unlikely fall in the top five, the conditions make parting with their 2026 first difficult. This means the Islanders would need to focus on a package centred around one of the Wild’s top prospects.

That said, Minnesota’s most coveted prospects—goaltender Jesper Wallstedt, defensemen David Jiricek and Zeev Buium, and forward Daniel Yurov—are likely untouchable in a rental scenario, even with a strong chance to re-sign Nelson in the offseason. This leaves a second tier of prospects that includes Liam Öhgren (LW/RW), Riley Heidt (C/LW), and Charlie Stramel (C).

Among these, Öhgren seems the most logical trade chip. The former first-round pick has already seen NHL action, appearing in eight games this season, though he’s yet to register a point. On an entry-level contract with two seasons remaining before becoming an RFA, he offers cost-controlled upside. Heidt, while impressive in the WHL, raises questions about his ability to transition to pro hockey and may not stick as a center. Stramel, the big-bodied pivot, has struggled in college but is finally showing signs of development at Michigan State, surpassing his point totals from the previous two seasons in just 16 games this year.

Cap considerations further complicate a deal. The Wild are pressed against the salary cap and would need to move out a contract to accommodate Nelson’s $3 million AAV at 50% retention. A package of Öhgren and a 2026 second-round pick feels underwhelming from an Islanders perspective, especially if Öhgren struggles to secure a regular NHL role. Swapping the second-rounder for Stramel might strengthen the return, but even then, it’s debatable whether Minnesota can outbid other suitors in this deadline race.

CAROLINA
A Brock Nelson acquisition by Carolina would bring a significant boost to their forward group, allowing the Hurricanes to shift Jesperi Kotkaniemi to the wing or down to the fourth line. Adding Nelson would instantly make Carolina’s forward corps one of the most formidable and balanced in the league.

The question is whether a package of Carolina’s 2025 first-round pick (likely in the 26-32 range) and prospect Bradley Nadeau (F) is enough to seal the deal. Assuming Scott Morrow (RD) remains untouchable, the Islanders might push for an additional piece. Given that the deal is with a division rival, the 2025 first-rounder could end up being the 32nd overall pick, which may not be enticing enough for Lou Lamoriello.

Carolina does have intriguing options to sweeten the pot, such as 21-year-old right winger Jackson Blake— son of former Islander Jason Blake —who at 21 years old has played effectively in a bottom-six role this season. On a .900K contract with one year remaining, Blake offers cost-controlled value that could subsidize higher cap hits elsewhere. However, to make the deal more palatable for Carolina, the Islanders might need to include a player like William Dufour (RW) as part of the trade.

For clarity, the proposed deal would look like this: Brock Nelson (C) and William Dufour (RW) to Carolina in exchange for a 2025 first-round pick, Bradley Nadeau (F), and Jackson Blake (RW). While this package bolsters the Islanders’ future depth, it raises the question of whether dealing Nelson to a division rival is worth the risk, especially if Carolina’s strengthened lineup makes them even tougher to compete against.

COLORADO
Colorado will undoubtedly be in the market for a center like Brock Nelson as they look to address injuries and solidify their top six. Adding Nelson would allow the Avalanche to move Casey Mittelstadt to the left wing, giving their forward group a much-needed boost. However, Colorado lacks a 2025 first-round pick, which complicates their ability to compete with other teams in the bidding.

The Avalanche’s best offer would likely center around their top prospect, Calum Ritchie (C), who has shone as Team Canada’s top center at this year’s World Juniors. How does this a Ritchie + 2nd round pick stack up against other suitors like Dallas, Minnesota, or Carolina? It largely depends on which prospect the Islanders value most: Ritchie, Liam Öhgren, Maveric Bourque, or Bradley Nadeau. Alternatively, the question could come down to whether the Islanders prioritize a guaranteed prospect over the uncertainty of a first-round pick, even if that pick is at the higher end of the draft.

WINNIPEG
Winnipeg currently holds the best record in the league, making them a strong contender for Brock Nelson’s services. With their 2025 first-round pick and prospects like Brad Lambert (C), Brayden Yager (C), and Colby Barlow (LW), the Jets have the assets to make a competitive offer. However, despite Nelson growing up just a few miles from the Manitoba border, re-signing him would be a significant challenge for the Jets, especially considering the high taxes in Canada and the weakened Canadian dollar. These factors make Winnipeg less appealing for a player like Nelson, who might prefer a situation where his salary goes further, such as in Dallas or Carolina.

While the Islanders would be interested in adding a top prospect like Lambert or Yager, Winnipeg is unlikely to part with either for a rental, given the uncertainty surrounding their ability to retain Nelson. Instead, a more realistic package could involve Colby Barlow, who, despite not making Team Canada’s U20 WJC roster, remains an intriguing power forward prospect. A 2025 1st round pick and Colby Barlow could be a more feasible option for Winnipeg, allowing them to hold onto their higher-tier assets while still offering a package that has future upside.

Given their strong season and history of aggressiveness at the trade deadline, the Jets may decide to make a bold move for Nelson. However, they must weigh the long-term challenges of acquiring a rental they might not be able to keep. Then again, perhaps Nelson is the piece that finally helps bring the first Stanley Cup championship back to Canada since 1993—and if so, it might all be worth it.

UTAH
As for a major dark horse in this race, the Utah hockey club could emerge as a surprise contender for Nelson. In their inaugural season, Utah has shown promise, and their ownership group is eager to make a statement. With plenty of cap space, a deep prospect pipeline, and an array of draft picks, Utah has the flexibility to construct a strong offer. A package featuring Utah’s 2025 first-round pick (likely in the 16-20 range) and power forward prospect Cole Beaudoin would be difficult to beat unless a rival team significantly ups their bid.

While it might seem a year too early for Utah to push its chips in, a continued strong performance heading into the deadline could change that approach. If their goal is to energize their fanbase and signal their arrival as a serious contender, a bold move like acquiring Nelson could align perfectly with their ambitions.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post. The narrative and specific teams, analysis, and scenarios is spot on. It is obvious you are a hockey fan first and well informed on other teams.

 

[doublechili]

Not sure what was happening around December 6th, but in addition to that Tweet above I also found this:



There's also an episode of The Chris Johnston Podcast on December 6th where he talks about Nelson/Palmieri being available and some "succession planning" and there's been some "talk out there before about Lamoriello's future."

Seems there's some buzz about change on the Island. Hopefully it's way more than just buzz.

On the one hand I don't put much stock in "buzz" like this. On the other hand, I would be surprised if smart, proactive guys like Malkin/Ledecky were not working on a succession plan. And not being happy with the current situation. I can see the most likely scenario being that Lou runs out this season, but you never know. If they don't replace him in-season, the big question is does Lou have a free hand or not.

 

[SI]

On the one hand I don't put much stock in "buzz" like this. On the other hand, I would be surprised if smart, proactive guys like Malkin/Ledecky were not working on a succession plan. And not being happy with the current situation. I can see the most likely scenario being that Lou runs out this season, but you never know. If they don't replace him in-season, the big question is does Lou have a free hand or not.

I feel like the succession plan means Roy is a strong possibility to be the new GM and I would advocate for that.

 

[periferal]

On the one hand I don't put much stock in "buzz" like this. On the other hand, I would be surprised if smart, proactive guys like Malkin/Ledecky were not working on a succession plan. And not being happy with the current situation. I can see the most likely scenario being that Lou runs out this season, but you never know. If they don't replace him in-season, the big question is does Lou have a free hand or not.

I hear you on the buzz, but while Lou's moves you usually "airtight," Malkin/Ledecky's probably less so. For example we knew about Ledecky flying around to every NHL arena and meeting with execs before snow was fired and replaced with Lou.

Still because things are usually so airtight around Lou, the fact that there's any buzz probably means something is up. If his job was secure I find it hard that any reputable reporters would be taking a chance of both irritating Lou and reporting something totally false.

Lou might not be replaced before next season, but my bet is that his hold on his job with the Isles has never been "looser."

 

[Glorydays22]

succession plan means getting rid of EVERYONE including Roy. The New GM should have the ability to pick his own coach.

And I don't want Roy as GM....

 

[Torrey Redux]

On the one hand I don't put much stock in "buzz" like this. On the other hand, I would be surprised if smart, proactive guys like Malkin/Ledecky were not working on a succession plan. And not being happy with the current situation. I can see the most likely scenario being that Lou runs out this season, but you never know. If they don't replace him in-season, the big question is does Lou have a free hand or not.

There is no question about their smarts but I do wonder about how proactive they are. Good businesses are always thinking about succession and so if they are just now working on a plan for their 83 year old GM then they will have already failed the proactivity test IMO. Secondly, I can't think of a bigger waste of time then waiting for the end of the season to jettison Lou. If they are going to do this then they should do it now so whoever is next can get a first hand view of the situation while it is happening. However, I do understand that if the top people on their list (again, if they have one yet) are under contractual obligation to another team then they may not be available until the season ends unless they get permission to talk to them. And to your final point, if they do let him stick around so that he can go out gracefully he should have very clear marching orders.

 

[periferal]

I feel like the succession plan means Roy is a strong possibility to be the new GM and I would advocate for that.

Honestly why would you advocate for that? He doesn't seem good at his current job so we're going to promote him...And to a job he has no experience at?

Color me in for Malkin/Ledecky really doing their due diligence, combing literally every other teams' front office, and finding an up and coming youngish executive (like an assistant GM somewhere) to be President of the team. From there that President can hire a GM so we have mutiple powerful voices dicsussing ideas instead of one Presient/GM dictator who doesn't have to speak with anyone before making any move (and not having to report it to the fans).

And hopefully this youngish/cutting edge President (and GM) can really inject some needed positive energy into this franchise and be around for a while. The last thing we need is another 50-60+ year old GM retread that feels almost like they're on cruise control (like Ken Holland with the Oilers for example).

The whole Islanders organization needs to get younger and more in line with today's NHL. That means faster, younger, more talented, incorporating analytics, and for the love of god hopefully revamp the scouting department so we have the best one in the league.

Now that would be something to be truly excited about. Because right now it feels like we're hoping the Titanic not only won't sink, but be able to beat any modern cruise ship in a race.

 

[periferal]

succession plan means getting rid of EVERYONE including Roy. The New GM should have the ability to pick his own coach.

And I don't want Roy as GM....

Amen brother. If Lou was doing a good job then we wouldn't be discussing replacing him. And since we are I'd like to distance ourselves as much as possible from him, which means getting rid of the people he appointed.

Oh and then there's this...

As head coach, Patrick Roy has a WORSE winning % than Lane Lambert.

That's a guy you want to PROMOTE...? To a job he has ZERO EXPERIENCE at? What are we even doing around here? Do we want to win or just always keep familiar faces around? Jesus.

 

[YearlyLottery]

Honestly why would you advocate for that? He doesn't seem good at his current job so we're going to promote him...And to a job he has no experience at?

Color me in for Malkin/Ledecky really doing their due diligence, combing literally every other teams' front office, and finding an up and coming youngish executive (like an assistant GM somewhere) to be President of the team. From there that President can hire a GM so we have mutiple powerful voices dicsussing ideas instead of one Presient/GM dictator who doesn't have to speak with anyone before making any move (and not having to report it to the fans).

And hopefully this youngish/cutting edge President (and GM) can really inject some needed positive energy into this franchise and be around for a while. The last thing we need is another 50-60+ year old GM retread that feels almost like they're on cruise control (like Ken Holland with the Oilers for example).

The whole Islanders organization needs to get younger and more in line with today's NHL. That means faster, younger, more talented, incorporating analytics, and for the love of god hopefully revamp the scouting department so we have the best one in the league.

Now that would be something to be truly excited about. Because right now it feels like we're hoping the Titanic not only won't sink, but be able to beat any modern cruise ship in a race.

Because this is a hockey discussion board I will not touch on what I agree with (which is everything except the bolded). That being said I would like to push back a bit on the bolded.

- We can say the roster is bad because of the GM (which most here agree with) but I am not sure we can say Roy is bad because he cannot turn around a roster that Lambert and Trotz failed with.

- So we cannot try a fresh face at GM in Roy and you do not want a retread? McPhee was great as a retread over in Vegas. Dean Lombardi could be a fit here. Lou was older and brought this team extremely close to a Stanley Cup. The most successful tenure I have seen in my lifetime.

- I do not agree that the organization (people running it) need to get younger and use analytics more. That could also run you into a situation like Dubai in Toronto or the old GM of Arizona.

Bottom line is this team could compete with a variety of different people running the show (including Roy), but it has to be the right person at the right time with the right people surrounded by them. The first step towards this organization becoming a Stanley Cup Contender is trading Palmieri and Nelson at the deadline or sooner though.

 

[crashthenet]

Who knows? I've watched significant parts of several games and it's always an empty building with a horrible vibe, or no vibe at all. On top of that there is very little talent to support those who might have potential. Frankly, it would be hard for any player to be at their best in that miserable environment. Even so, nobody looks particularly good in their own right, but again, it is really hard to judge when the team as a whole is that bad and there is zero energy in the building.

If we start selling soon - and I mean selling; Lee, Nelson, Palms, Pags, at the very least - I can't think of a single player who would be a net positive as a call up and so IMO we would be a lottery shoo-in and have at least a shot at a bottom three position by the time the end of the season rolls around.

It's so disappointing. There was a time when they did a good job of getting families in there. AHL hockey in many places is affordable entertainment.

That aside, the team looks like more of a dumpster fire than usual. I figure Jeffries might be a kid who can get a look. Beyond that Odelius, Bolduc? What is going on with Liukas?

 

[YearlyLottery]

It's so disappointing. There was a time when they did a good job of getting families in there. AHL hockey in many places is affordable entertainment.

That aside, the team looks like more of a dumpster fire than usual. I figure Jeffries might be a kid who can get a look. Beyond that Odelius, Bolduc? What is going on with Liukas?

Jefferies should absolutely get a look. I would still throw Maggio on that list as a bottom six guy as well. AHL hockey is not really meant for developing elite talent. Most of those guys jump straight from the CHL/NCAA directly to the NHL in most cases.

 

[crashthenet]

On the one hand I don't put much stock in "buzz" like this. On the other hand, I would be surprised if smart, proactive guys like Malkin/Ledecky were not working on a succession plan. And not being happy with the current situation. I can see the most likely scenario being that Lou runs out this season, but you never know. If they don't replace him in-season, the big question is does Lou have a free hand or not.

The banana says it all.

Dallas is reeling right now. Offense looks broken and goaltending is average. Nelson or Palms would be a good add,

 

[Torrey Redux]

It's so disappointing. There was a time when they did a good job of getting families in there. AHL hockey in many places is affordable entertainment.

That aside, the team looks like more of a dumpster fire than usual. I figure Jeffries might be a kid who can get a look. Beyond that Odelius, Bolduc? What is going on with Liukas?

It is. And yes, minor league hockey is usually a great ticket. When I am down in the Ft. Myers area a couple of times a year I always go to an Everblades game. Great building, great atmosphere, good team, good hockey all for about 20-25 bucks a ticket.

You tune into a Bport game and try to focus on individuals who might have promise but when the team has no chance and no life and those (few) players have no support what are they supposed to do? I know it's up to them to a great degree to rise above it but, still, they are not getting what they need to develop.

 

[Big L]

The banana says it all.

Dallas is reeling right now. Offense looks broken and goaltending is average. Nelson or Palms would be a good add,

I think Dallas has to put someone on LTIR before they can fit a Nelson or palms. Keep an eye on that, might see a trade soon after.

 

[SI]

If it is a succession plan, then

succession plan means getting rid of EVERYONE including Roy. The New GM should have the ability to pick his own coach.

And I don't want Roy as GM....

IF it is a succession plan, then that indicates someone within the organization with Lou stepping back

IMO, the choice of word is significant.

Otherwise, it is a firing, which would mean an overhaul and a new head coach.

 

[periferal]

Because this is a hockey discussion board I will not touch on what I agree with (which is everything except the bolded). That being said I would like to push back a bit on the bolded.

Total respect to this post. Appreciate a lot of your points...

- We can say the roster is bad because of the GM (which most here agree with) but I am not sure we can say Roy is bad because he cannot turn around a roster that Lambert and Trotz failed with.

I will definitely give Roy SOMEWHAT of a pass given this terrible roster Lou has saddled him (and us all with). But last in the entire league in PP and PK (and not just last, but historically low numbers)? Guys not giving 100%? Lots of giveaways and guys out of position?

No way it's this bad if Trotz is still coach.

I mean if you're almost blackballed from the NHL and finally get another shot like Roy just did...This is the job you do? It's bad bad - Not just "Lou gave me a bad roster" bad.

If the guys were just in correct positions and playing hard I could get a little more excited, but the 7-1 defeat at home to the Sabres is a microcosm of the coaching job Roy has done. You shouldn't lose 7-1 to any team in the league - Much less one who hadn't won in weeks.

Roy might be a decent GM one day, but right now not going to reward a guy who is failing at his current job. I think that's a horrible precedent to set.

- So we cannot try a fresh face at GM in Roy and you do not want a retread? McPhee was great as a retread over in Vegas. Dean Lombardi could be a fit here. Lou was older and brought this team extremely close to a Stanley Cup. The most successful tenure I have seen in my lifetime.

I mean we can try a "retread" (athough that name alone has such lackluster connotations), but I haven't seen one suggested that I can get excited about.

McPhee was a joke in Washington (anyone remember Erat for Foresberg), and got handed a dream situation in Vegas. Honestly tons of average GMs would've had success with just picking the best players available from each expansion list or taking picks/prospects to not take a certain prospect.

To me I just don't want any GM who's been out of the league for more than 1 season. I like the idea that anyone we hire has been working non-stop the last few years so they are both experienced and up on all the data/league talk/etc.

- I do not agree that the organization (people running it) need to get younger and use analytics more. That could also run you into a situation like Dubai in Toronto or the old GM of Arizona.

Not for a second do I think that analytics should be the driving force in decision making, but I'm just saying it should be in the pool of things that help guide organizational decisions.

Believe me if I had only one thing that I would prioritize it would be SCOUTING. I would kill for a President/GM who tries to create the best scouting department in the NHL. That alone would boost this team's chances of winning the most. Lord knows that many average coaches have won a Cup when standing behind the bench of a very talented team.

Bottom line is this team could compete with a variety of different people running the show (including Roy), but it has to be the right person at the right time with the right people surrounded by them.

Not sure what you mean by "compete," but this current roster could not compete for a Cup no matter who was behind the bench. And I'm only interested in competing for Cups. Not trying to make the playoffs as an 8 seed and get bounced in 6 games. We've done that plenty already.

The first step towards this organization becoming a Stanley Cup Contender is trading Palmieri and Nelson at the deadline or sooner though.

100% agree on this. Resigning either or both, or letting them walk for nothing, are both GM malpractice.

 

[SI]

Honestly why would you advocate for that? He doesn't seem good at his current job so we're going to promote him...And to a job he has no experience at?

Color me in for Malkin/Ledecky really doing their due diligence, combing literally every other teams' front office, and finding an up and coming youngish executive (like an assistant GM somewhere) to be President of the team. From there that President can hire a GM so we have mutiple powerful voices dicsussing ideas instead of one Presient/GM dictator who doesn't have to speak with anyone before making any move (and not having to report it to the fans).

And hopefully this youngish/cutting edge President (and GM) can really inject some needed positive energy into this franchise and be around for a while. The last thing we need is another 50-60+ year old GM retread that feels almost like they're on cruise control (like Ken Holland with the Oilers for example).

The whole Islanders organization needs to get younger and more in line with today's NHL. That means faster, younger, more talented, incorporating analytics, and for the love of god hopefully revamp the scouting department so we have the best one in the league.

Now that would be something to be truly excited about. Because right now it feels like we're hoping the Titanic not only won't sink, but be able to beat any modern cruise ship in a race.

I disagree, the team has not had the results.

But I like how their approach and system - I certainly question the roster he has been given.

ROY is a champion, a winner, a legend and knows the game of hockey.
He is not someone, who turns away from the data and analytics and is an old school guy.

You may feel differently and that is OK - I like Patrick Roy and think he would make an excellent GM.

 

[Glorydays22]

If it is a succession plan, then

IF it is a succession plan, then that indicates someone within the organization with Lou stepping back

IMO, the choice of word is significant.

Otherwise, it is a firing, which would mean an overhaul and a new head coach.

I agree with you. That word came from a source. Doesn't mean it's the "correct" word. IMO, they need to clean house and that includes Roy.

 

[Top Corner]

I disagree, the team has not had the results.

But I like how their approach and system - I certainly question the roster he has been given.

ROY is a champion, a winner, a legend and knows the game of hockey.
He is not someone, who turns away from the data and analytics and is an old school guy.

You may feel differently and that is OK - I like Patrick Roy and think he would make an excellent GM.

I think Roy knows what is needed to win but if he doesn’t have the parts it’s tough to make that happen. If he was in charge, I think he reshapes this roster quickly.

 

[MJF]

I think Roy knows what is needed to win but if he doesn’t have the parts it’s tough to make that happen. If he was in charge, I think he reshapes this roster quickly.

Roy might be a better GM. He is not a good coach.

 

[Big L]

I think Roy knows what is needed to win but if he doesn’t have the parts it’s tough to make that happen. If he was in charge, I think he reshapes this roster quickly.

As a coach, if you don’t have the parts you want, then you use the parts you have to the maximum you can. I don’t think Roy has done that. At all. Barry took chicken shit and made chicken salad. Roy has taken chicken shit and made dog shit. I find it difficult to make the leap that somehow that makes him qualified to be a GM.