To make the next step, what do we need?

[Jets 31]

The team and players have to do everything possible to get better imo, not just run it back again. Obviously certain guys are far less likely to be traded then others, but how one would not listen on anyone when you fail your goal is weird idea to me. Any goal that is cup or blow it up is unrealistic imo , but we were far away from winning it all imo. Dallas is not a super strong team, major depth issues and I suspect they will not beat the Oilers. We barely got by the Blues and we lost to a weak Dallas team with poor depth. IMO

Looks at deals via FA, OS, trades to improve the team. We need to be more physical, the days of big bad Jets with Buff, Trouba, etc are long gone. We have a smaller top 4 D, pro/con, but would be nice to add another top 4 two way physical D. We need more speed and compete especially in our bottom six forwards. Names needs to be banished to the bottom six never to see 2C duty again barring injuries. For the love all that is holy can this team finally find a long term solution at 2C, we’ve sucked in that position since day one in 2011, a few points where it got slightly better then shitty but never good, never long term. I can’t stand watching so many plays die bc of Names hands of stone. Helle is a big boring butterfly goalie who cuts down the angles, not uncommon in the NHL, most butterfly goalies are weaker up high glove or blocker not a huge issue for me compared to how bad he is at his lateral movement, he’s brutal at it, he needs to dramatically improve his lateral movement. All teams know Helle weaknesses, high shots and lateral movement. Improve it dramatically Helle, that’s your job. Chevy needs to sign our current FA’s and Chipman needs to give him the green light to spend to the cap as it rises.

The bigger question is if teams know this about Helly why is he continually the best goalie in the NHL in the regular season ? Because teams try harder in the playoffs ? You still have to play well in the regular season to get into the playoffs so i don't think that's it. Helly had some demons to battle but it did look like he was starting to get his mojo back. I would like Chevy to get us a better backup goalie and then Arniel has to start that goalie if Helly has troubles, at least for the next game and see what happens.

 

[Hunter368]

The bigger question is if teams know this about Helly why is he continually the best goalie in the NHL in the regular season ? Because teams try harder in the playoffs ? You still have to play well in the regular season to get into the playoffs so i don't think that's it. Helly had some demons to battle but it did look like he was starting to get his mojo back. I would like Chevy to get us a better backup goalie and then Arniel has to start that goalie if Helly has troubles, at least for the next game and see what happens.

Well it could be from the team wishful thinking he would do good this year in the playoffs, objectively speaking Helle sucked again overall. Sub .900% SP and 3.00+ GA…….thats not a good goalie performance by any standards in the NHL. So Helle and his goalie coach need to significantly improve that bc no one cares about the regular season results once you get into the playoffs, which isn’t a high bar. Yes I agree a better backup would be helpful. I don’t think anyone can think or use the excuse Helle was tired that’s why he sucked, Helle just sucked overall (yes he had a few moments, but we’re talking overall). Also Helle can go see a sports psychologist to help him with the pressure, just like MAF did in 2013, if it’s ok for MAF then certainly Helle can do it.

Defensively the team defence also needs to improve/change/system to reduce the chances forcing Helle to move laterally as much, cut way down those cross slot passes, wrap arounds, etc. While majority of the improvements is on Helle for GAA, the team defence also owns some of that and can help.

PS yes teams try way harder in the playoffs, that’s why we love the playoffs and the regular season is like eating cereal for supper.

 

[Jets 31]

Well it could be from the team wishful thinking he would do good this year in the playoffs, objectively speaking Helle sucked again overall. Sub .900% SP and 3.00+ GA…….thats not a good goalie performance by any standards in the NHL. So Helle and his goalie coach need to significantly improve that bc no one cares about the regular season results once you get into the playoffs, which isn’t a high bar. Yes I agree a better backup would be helpful. I don’t think anyone can think or use the excuse Helle was tired that’s why he sucked, Helle just sucked overall (yes he had a few moments, but we’re talking overall). Also Helle can go see a sports psychologist to help him with the pressure, just like MAF did in 2013, if it’s ok for MAF then certainly Helle can do it.

Defensively the team defence also needs to improve/change/system to reduce the chances forcing Helle to move laterally as much, cut way down those cross slot passes, wrap arounds, etc. While majority of the improvements is on Helle for GAA, the team defence also owns some of that and can help.

PS yes teams try way harder in the playoffs, that’s why we love the playoffs and the regular season is like eating cereal for supper.

Cereal for supper is good sometimes. I agree teams try harder, i worded it wrong, what i'm saying is teams would know his weakness's during the regular season just like the playoffs. For me like i said it was more mental for him than weakness's. I think he was actually trying to do too much in the playoffs and getting in his own head especially when the other team scored really early. Hopefully he was getting it figured out because he did play better the last 2 games of the Dallas series.

 

[Hunter368]

Cereal for supper is good sometimes. I agree teams try harder, i worded it wrong, what i'm saying is teams would know his weakness's during the regular season just like the playoffs. For me like i said it was more mental for him than weakness's. I think he was actually trying to do too much in the playoffs and getting in his own head especially when the other team scored really early. Hopefully he was getting it figured out because he did play better the last 2 games of the Dallas series.

I do agree he did or does have a mental issue with the playoffs, maybe he just try’s too hard not sure, but go see a sports psychologist or talk to some long term goalie retired vets he respects. Regarding his lateral movement issues, at times he looked worst then a PeeWee goalie moving laterally this playoffs. All I’m saying whatever the issues are, figure them out and fix them bc he’s paid a lot of money for a goalie now days…….I couldn’t care less about his regular seasons awards. To me it’s only about the playoffs at this stage of the team’s evolution, win in the playoffs or the whole season is basically a failure.

PS, I do feel they made some good strides this year as a team in the regular season, but to play so bad defensively (especially in net) was almost cruel to watch after being the top team. So to be clear I’m not saying the entire season was bad, but how it ended and even more so how we played was very disappointing and kind of embarrassing TBH.

 

[DRW204]

Hellebuyck saw 22 SOG/gp this playoffs, that's one of the lowest rates seen by a goalie through approximately 2 rounds ever. 2019-2021 Hellebuyck would've killed for that. no team at this stage is giving up absolutely 0 high-danger chances in a game, given it's a top-16 team every other night. that's straight up unreasonable to expect. however - low volume and a key save here or there, that's not anything ridiculous or insurmountable. especially given the quality of starter.

Jets offense through the middle-6 needs to be a better as well. however, the bigger onus is on Hellebuyck: the biggest disappointment this playoffs perhaps ever? What's the biggest differential b/w playoffs and regular season from the 24-25 Jets - SV% (starter) or SH%?

what's the commentary if:
McDavid performed at the Fwd equivalent from a 0.925/MVP finalist/Vezina -> 0.866 (on all-time low SOGs)
& at the same time, Skinner went from a 0.897 -> 0.875

what is the bigger story? and more of the focus?

 

[Jet]

Needs in order of importance:

2C - I just don't think with Perfettis lack of speed/ size combo he's a viable option there.
Ehlers replacement, another top 6 forward
Legit bottom pair guy to be able to play up in the lineup
A backup goalie we're not afraid to use in the playoffs

Tall order and there may be some internal options, but I wouldn't mess around with the 2C issue. We have been trying to solve for that for years, and besides Dubois we've failed.

 

[surixon]

I think he’ll accept 4 th line money, as teams won’t be lining up to sign him. He could turn out to be a big plus, like Perry has for the Oilers.

At 2 mil per year, I’d go that on Towes, providing he can pass all the physicals, which I’m sure he can.

The guy knows how to win, and has done so on every team he’s played for, and would set a good leadership example the team needs

I think every team interested will offer him a one year bonus laden deal. It's the smart play for a player his age that has been off three years.

I'm going to guess a $2 million base salary with up to $3 million in additional bonuses for things like games played, goals, points, etc.

 

[Mortimer Snerd]

How many bottom six players do you know that make north of 9 million?
A 63-point often injured winger isn't worth more than 9 million for 8 years unless it is for 5 years. I would give him 10 million for 5 years.

Agree, term would be key. I could see going as much as 6 years, but 5 would be better. I won't be surprised if he gets 7x10 from someone though.

 

[Mortimer Snerd]

That is fine and I'm not indicating Cole can do some of things Ehelers can. I'm just saying that Cole has strengths to his game that Ehlers doesn't and vis versa. You can impact the game defensively, physically, posionally etc.

I mean would anyone now take Ehlers over Rheinhardt? There was a time when nobody would swap him for Sam but since he came into his physical peak his smarts and defense and ability to score has pushed him far ahead of fly. Smarts and positioning can make up for high level speed and skill.

And I go back to needing a replacement who is not currently on the team. Cole can be Cole. He can't be Cole and Nik. If he takes another step it helps ease the pain of the loss, but that's all.

We don't have anyone in the system who is close to replacing Nik. So it is sign him, trade for a top 6 winger, or take a substantial hit to our top 6 and PP.

 

[Mortimer Snerd]

I think he’ll accept 4 th line money, as teams won’t be lining up to sign him. He could turn out to be a big plus, like Perry has for the Oilers.

At 2 mil per year, I’d go that on Towes, providing he can pass all the physicals, which I’m sure he can.

The guy knows how to win, and has done so on every team he’s played for, and would set a good leadership example the team needs

Bring him in on a PTO to ensure that he is able to play. I think he probably is but no one knows until he tries. Sign him to a 1 mil contract with bonuses that can go as high as he can earn. Playing bonuses are allowed for 35+ players.

 

[surixon]

And I go back to needing a replacement who is not currently on the team. Cole can be Cole. He can't be Cole and Nik. If he takes another step it helps ease the pain of the loss, but that's all.

We don't have anyone in the system who is close to replacing Nik. So it is sign him, trade for a top 6 winger, or take a substantial hit to our top 6 and PP.

Ok I see what you are getting at now. No we don't have anyone that replicates The unique things Ehlers brings to the table although Lambert in time might be able make up some of the transition ability (doubtful he comes anywhere close in terms of points).

I guess it will depend on if they can bring someone else in for line 2 and chemistry and style wise it more resembles the Jets systems.

 

[Mortimer Snerd]

That shopping list is incredibly expensive and nearly impossible to make happen.
If we brought in one of those (aside from an Ehlers re-signing) I would be surprised.

I think Ehlers is gone. I still hold out faint hope that this year encourages him to sign here and Chevy to offer what it takes. But I expect him to go.

With or without Ehlers, I think Chevy will continue to try to land a 2C. I will be surprised if he acquires the RHD we need and I don't expect any change in goal.

 

[CanMerc]

I think helle gets in his own head during playoffs and psychs himself out.
Hes got the moves, the IQ, and the talent…that’s been proven over and over during the regular season…but once the playoffs hi, he seems to second guess himself, make rookie style mistakes, and lose a step on mobility… I think it’s 100% psychological

 

[surixon]

I think helle gets in his own head during playoffs and psychs himself out.
Hes got the moves, the IQ, and the talent…that’s been proven over and over during the regular season…but once the playoffs hi, he seems to second guess himself, make rookie style mistakes, and lose a step on mobility… I think it’s 100% psychological

He pretty much admited that in his exit interview.

 

[CanMerc]

He pretty much admited that in his exit interview.

I didn’t see the exit interviews.
He needs to commit to seeing sports psychologist to work out what ever it is

 

[CanMerc]

I think Ehlers is gone. I still hold out faint hope that this year encourages him to sign here and Chevy to offer what it takes. But I expect him to go.

With or without Ehlers, I think Chevy will continue to try to land a 2C. I will be surprised if he acquires the RHD we need and I don't expect any change in goal.

Agreed.
A proper 2C is by far our biggest and most pressing need.
If Helle can solve his shit, that fixes our goal issue and lowers our need to address the RD.
The only other need I see that we have to address after the 2C is our top 6 RW… whether that’s done internally by promoting a kid like Lambert or externally by way of trade or FA acquisition

 

[CanMerc]

That shopping list is incredibly expensive and nearly impossible to make happen.
If we brought in one of those (aside from an Ehlers re-signing) I would be surprised.

The first 2 items on that list have been there for a while…we’ve needed a 2C for years. I know Chevy has tried various options with differing degrees of success, but nothing has stuck as yet. It’s by far our biggest need. The top 2 RHD we’ve needed since Buff left and we will never be able to replace all of what he brought to the team and the ice. I don’t really expect much done in this area though with Salo likely being close to moving up and the way Pionk and Samberg have clicked this season. I think it very possible Chevy lets the D ride, unless he stumbles across a deal he just can’t refuse.

 

[PaulPooley]

Well it could be from the team wishful thinking he would do good this year in the playoffs, objectively speaking Helle sucked again overall. Sub .900% SP and 3.00+ GA…….thats not a good goalie performance by any standards in the NHL. So Helle and his goalie coach need to significantly improve that bc no one cares about the regular season results once you get into the playoffs, which isn’t a high bar. Yes I agree a better backup would be helpful. I don’t think anyone can think or use the excuse Helle was tired that’s why he sucked, Helle just sucked overall (yes he had a few moments, but we’re talking overall). Also Helle can go see a sports psychologist to help him with the pressure, just like MAF did in 2013, if it’s ok for MAF then certainly Helle can do it.

Defensively the team defence also needs to improve/change/system to reduce the chances forcing Helle to move laterally as much, cut way down those cross slot passes, wrap arounds, etc. While majority of the improvements is on Helle for GAA, the team defence also owns some of that and can help.

PS yes teams try way harder in the playoffs, that’s why we love the playoffs and the regular season is like eating cereal for supper.

I would argue one of the biggest areas they need to improve on for playoff success is boxing out in front of Helly to reduce the amount of traffic he sees or potential tips/ bounces that have plagued them.

 

[PaulPooley]

The first 2 items on that list have been there for a while…we’ve needed a 2C for years. I know Chevy has tried various options with differing degrees of success, but nothing has stuck as yet. It’s by far our biggest need. The top 2 RHD we’ve needed since Buff left and we will never be able to replace all of what he brought to the team and the ice. I don’t really expect much done in this area though with Salo likely being close to moving up and the way Pionk and Samberg have clicked this season. I think it very possible Chevy lets the D ride, unless he stumbles across a deal he just can’t refuse.

PLD was supposed to be our 2nd line centre solution but we all know how that went…

 

[Hunter368]

I would argue one of the biggest areas they need to improve on for playoff success is boxing out in front of Helly to reduce the amount of traffic he sees or potential tips/ bounces that have plagued them.

Agreed, I did mention that in one of my posts also, it’s not all on Helle, some of its on defence and defensive systems.

 

[scelaton]

And I go back to needing a replacement who is not currently on the team. Cole can be Cole. He can't be Cole and Nik. If he takes another step it helps ease the pain of the loss, but that's all.

We don't have anyone in the system who is close to replacing Nik. So it is sign him, trade for a top 6 winger, or take a substantial hit to our top 6 and PP.

I agree that Cole cannot replace some of what Ehlers brings and that we'd need an additional skilled top 6 F if we lose Nik.

However the PP may not take as much of a hit as some people expect. Cole does not need Ehlers' speed or shot once the PP is set up in the O-zone and is already just as creative as Ehlers, with lots of room to grow. If he is on PP1 full time next year, I could easily see him garnering an additional 10 PP points, which would put him at 60 points/82 games, not including any additional improvement in his 5v5 productivity.

That means we'd need a ~40 pt (5v5) replacement F, preferably a C who drives possession and plays on PP2. Not an easy thing to find--there is certainly no one in-house who can do it-- but not impossible.

 

[surixon]

I agree that Cole cannot replace some of what Ehlers brings and that we'd need an additional skilled top 6 F if we lose Nik.

However the PP may not take as much of a hit as some people expect. Cole does not need Ehlers' speed or shot once the PP is set up in the O-zone and is already just as creative as Ehlers, with lots of room to grow. If he is on PP1 full time next year, I could easily see him garnering an additional 10 PP points, which would put him at 60 points/82 games, not including any additional improvement in his 5v5 productivity.

That means we'd need a ~40 pt (5v5) replacement F, preferably a C who drives possession and plays on PP2. Not an easy thing to find--there is certainly no one in-house who can do it-- but not impossible.

Our coaches would need to spend the summer making tweaks to the top unit to better incorporate Cole's skill set. I thought we saw signs down the stretch and in the first round of that happening. Him exploiting space down low to score some goals will open up those cross crease seems for him to get the puck to Scheifele for one timers.

Also if Fly is gone then Cole gets a higher rotation in 4 on 4 and 3 on 3 situations as well as Extra attacker situations. All of which should lead to increased scoring.

But yes we will need to bring in a couple 40 - 50 point players to make up the scoring. Not sure we have a prospect ready to do that for next year.

 

[Weezeric]

Our coaches would need to spend the summer making tweaks to the top unit to better incorporate Cole's skill set. I thought we saw signs down the stretch and in the first round of that happening. Him exploiting space down low to score some goals will open up those cross crease seems for him to get the puck to Scheifele for one timers.

Also if Fly is gone then Cole gets a higher rotation in 4 on 4 and 3 on 3 situations as well as Extra attacker situations. All of which should lead to increased scoring.

But yes we will need to bring in a couple 40 - 50 point players to make up the scoring. Not sure we have a prospect ready to do that for next year.

I think Lambert, Rashevsky (if they sign him) and Chibrikov all have the potential to score 40+ if they’re on a sheltered scoring line

 

[surixon]

I think Lambert, Rashevsky (if they sign him) and Chibrikov all have the potential to score 40+ if they’re on a sheltered scoring line

Lambert possibly if he puts on muscle and rebounds but I feel people are greatly overvaluing Chibs based on a few NHL games. His AHL production doesn't suggest top 6 scoring in the NHL.

 

[Buffdog]

Re: Helle in the playoffs...

He put up a 0.866 save % this year

Interestingly...
Vasi (future hall of famer): 0.872%
Kemper (had an excellent season): 0.889%

50% of goalies who played in the playoffs are over 0.900

Helle was largely fine after the first round, but he needs to figure out an adjustment on shooters going under the bar on him

For the record, I'm not making excuses for him or implying that he played well. If he even hits league average 0.900, I think the Jets are still playing hockey