Looking at the draft pick situation it isn't terrible but the Spits aren't flush with a war chest of picks either. They have 2 2nds this year but no 4th. Two 3rds in 2026 2 2nds in 2027. Yes next year should be a year they go for it but this has all the makings of trying to make a run but a rebuild right after.
Windsor Spitfires 2024-25 Season Thread, Part II
- Thread starter SoupNazi
- Start date
Exactly why we need to move roster players to cause the least pain. It's going to cost picks but we need to keep 1 second rounder for each draft so we are not empty with players for the 08's that we have now. We should be pretty good with our 08 crop this year for 2-3 more years.
Teflon
Registered User
- Jan 6, 2018
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So u move say Abe and Manzo plus a pic for Smith? Im ok with that. Id love Jet coming here! That kid is a stud! Id call Philly first to see if hes likely coming back. Im not convinced Protos is gone if the team can convince Washington they will do right by him. Still need another D man but that can be done next fall.
I think Protas is stuck to a degree with players around him that are not quite at his skill level. Maybe returned next year to learn more of a leadership role. He'd easily have 50 plus this year with the right line combination. Still like to see him and Spellacy together full time. NHl speed with NHL shot and hands
OHLTG
Registered User
If I'm asked about Abe, Manzo, and a decent pic for Smith, I'm signing it. I like Abe, don't get me wrong. He's a mini Marchand when he's on his game. I like Manzo's depth potential, too. But... if Smith is available, you gotta pay to play.
It's going to cost something to improve the back end for sure. At the end the year, anyone knows in hockey that defense wins championships.
Idk if I personally like the idea of bringing in Luchanko this year. All things considered, London with a full roster seems like they're going to run away with it this year. If we're able to get our core to return next year we have a real shot at being the team to beat next year. As far as this year is concerned, I've been to most of the Spits home games and I have to say...we need defense bad. We have way too many guys that like to pinch and not enough stay at home guys that allow for that type of risk, not to mention Woodall and Cristoforo are completely out of position more often than not. Another thing I've noticed is that communication seems to be lacking, I've seen way too many instances of guys not being ready for the puck to come to them which leads to turnovers. One final thing I've noticed is that for some reason when we're in our own zone we have an awful tendency to want to throw the puck into the middle of the ice, that needs to change. I hate to be negative because I love this team, I truly do, but I'm just pointing out wha I've seen this year. Any trade that happens leading up to this years deadline should be made with a look towards next year imo. It's been said here numerous times already but a guy or two that can contribute this year and will be back next year would be ideal. So far this year, my favourite player to watch has been Protas by far, he just seems so comfortable out there and he's always thinking one step ahead. If we find a way to get him back next year he definitely needs a line mate to compliment his skill set. Nesbitt has grown ten fold since last year which is good to see and all of our rookies have impressed me at one time or another. Last thought, Who does everybody think our goalies will be next year? I don't mind Froggett but I feel like it would be more beneficial to have Windbiel up with the team next season.
As for goalies next year, agree Windbiel backing Joey. Windbiel was top rated 08 US goalie for a reason. He has the modern size and is doing well jn LaSalle. I think Froggett, f it is a knee will take a while to heal. JC will need help in the 6 games in 9 day stretch right after the Christmas break.
Like you said this is why they need to keep their 2nd, add a 4th etc... You hope the 08s are good but if Belchetz only has 2 or 3 years then you need a plan B.
