Windsor Spitfires 2024-25 Season Thread, Part II

[windsor7]

With Beltchz, Spellacy and Outwater out for Thursday I wonder if they let Wingard play up front? He has in the past and it will get them through to the holiday break without shuffling any JrB players.

U can put 44 up front. He's up there often anyways..

 

[hockeylegend11]

Because it's only 1 game prior to the Xmas break I could see Windsor inserting Winegard into the lineup to give Spits 10F,8D,might be tempted to put Manzo upfront because he is far more mobile then Winegard, though I wouldn't object if they sign 17 year old Julian Gignac leading point scorer for La Salle and insert him into the lineup.
Aside from the fact he deserves a callup considering how has played down in La Salle after a strong camp showing,would be cool to see a 1st cousin of forward Noah Morneau in the lineup and a 15th rounder 2023 draft to boot.

 

[Slowpace]

Cam Allen to Knights....official.

KNIGHTS COMPLETE TRADE WITH STORM FOR ALLEN - London Knights

The London Knights have announced today that the club has completed a trade with the Guelph Storm for veteran defenceman Cam Allen. In return, the Guelph Storm will receive defenceman Noah Jenken and seven draft picks. Allen was the third overall pick to the Storm in the 2021 OHL Priority...

chl.ca

 

[RayzorIsDull]

If you win the OHL with multiple NHL drafted D, will it matter if they're traded for or developed? Nobody's going to say "Windsor had three NHL prospects, but they were all acquired, so does it count?" No. They're going to look at the numbers, the coaching, and go "okay, they're much better than last season. Props."

As for the D - Cristoforo is night-and-day compared to last season and I don't think that can be denied. Same goes for Walton; he's much more physical, which everyone was screaming for. I give major props to Costanzo for his play and the F have been great in coming back, but if we don't give props to the D where it's due, I don't think that's fair.

You tell me if it matters if they are traded for or drafted. The last time they won a championship they drafted Ellis and Fowler. They traded for Cantin and Young. It's far easier to trade for the latter two than it is to trade for the former two. We are still waiting for Bowler's first Ellis/Fowler/Sergachev.

Cam Allen to Knights....official.

KNIGHTS COMPLETE TRADE WITH STORM FOR ALLEN - London Knights

The London Knights have announced today that the club has completed a trade with the Guelph Storm for veteran defenceman Cam Allen. In return, the Guelph Storm will receive defenceman Noah Jenken and seven draft picks. Allen was the third overall pick to the Storm in the 2021 OHL Priority...

chl.ca

If that's the cost of an 05 who may or may not return I can't imagine the cost of an 06.

 

[Cherrydon]

If you win the OHL with multiple NHL drafted D, will it matter if they're traded for or developed? Nobody's going to say "Windsor had three NHL prospects, but they were all acquired, so does it count?" No. They're going to look at the numbers, the coaching, and go "okay, they're much better than last season. Props."

As for the D - Cristoforo is night-and-day compared to last season and I don't think that can be denied. Same goes for Walton; he's much more physical, which everyone was screaming for. I give major props to Costanzo for his play and the F have been great in coming back, but if we don't give props to the D where it's due, I don't think that's fair.

I have no problem acquiring D and if they are drafted-bonus. The point people have made is the number of D the Spits have drafted and developed into being NHL drafted. Zero under Bowler. Even tradeded Ride and D'Angelis did not get drafted. I did not mention Cristoforo by name in my last post but you did. I do and give big props to Cristoforo shot blocking ability. I have Mentioned it often. Props to Bowler for drafting Woodall in the 10th round. Great pick. He being less experienced by 70 plus games is almost equivalent to Cristoforo now who was the 1st rounder. What is your opinion on how to make this club a top contender next year? You think the 06 core is just fine? Honestly though it hurts, I feel like the Spits are like the Leafs, stay pat with 06 core, tweek the 4-5 D and fringe players and expect different results in the playoffs. Yes. We will score our way into the playoffs and then pray we can play tough defense in a 7 game series and everyone will be bitch if Joey let's in 1 soft goal.

 

[Cherrydon]

Current D
Mathurin-trade
Walton-trade
Cristo-draft 1st round
Manzo-draft 5th round
Woodall-draft 10th round
EICHLER- import draft
Winegard-draft 11th round
Hicks-draft 2nd round.
I hope history doesn't repeat as Bowler has traded the last 2-2nd rounders in D'Angelis and Ride and Sobolev 1st round import. Obviously offense first mentality. Just saying.

 

[windsor7]

Current D
Mathurin-trade
Walton-trade
Cristo-draft 1st round
Manzo-draft 5th round
Woodall-draft 10th round
EICHLER- import draft
Winegard-draft 11th round
Hicks-draft 2nd round.
I hope history doesn't repeat as Bowler has traded the last 2-2nd rounders in D'Angelis and Ride and Sobolev 1st round import. Obviously offense first mentality. Just saying.

He is completely offensive first.
That's how he played hockey.
Didn't bother with defense at all

 

[OHLTG]

You tell me if it matters if they are traded for or drafted. The last time they won a championship they drafted Ellis and Fowler. They traded for Cantin and Young. It's far easier to trade for the latter two than it is to trade for the former two. We are still waiting for Bowler's first Ellis/Fowler/Sergachev.

It doesn't really matter to me. They're also not likely going to find another Ellis; he was a once-in-a-generation Dman and we know those aren't a dime-a-dozen. Bowler has his Sergachev - Protas. The high-scoring Import pick. There hasn't been a D from the Import Draft that's produced anywhere near where Sergachev was. I know a lot on here wanted a D but Protas seems like he's answered the bell.

I did not mention Cristoforo by name in my last post but you did. I do and give big props to Cristoforo shot blocking ability. I have Mentioned it often.

I mentioned Cristo by name because he has, by far and wide, been the most criticized player on here.

What is your opinion on how to make this club a top contender next year?

Bring in a veteran D and upgrade the OA positions.

As for Allen - I had heard SSM was talking to London about Gibson but I guess that ship sailed... unless London's REALLY good. It's a steep price for a rental but London could afford it. They've basically given the conference a giant "hahaha... good luck."

 

[Millpond]

Will Sam McCue be playing left wing in Walkerville Jan 12 ?

 

[OHLTG]

Will Sam McCue be playing left wing in Walkerville Jan 12 ?

*Riverside? lol

 

[Cherrydon]

It doesn't really matter to me. They're also not likely going to find another Ellis; he was a once-in-a-generation Dman and we know those aren't a dime-a-dozen. Bowler has his Sergachev - Protas. The high-scoring Import pick. There hasn't been a D from the Import Draft that's produced anywhere near where Sergachev was. I know a lot on here wanted a D but Protas seems like he's answered the bell.


I mentioned Cristo by name because he has, by far and wide, been the most criticized player on here.


Bring in a veteran D and upgrade the OA positions.

As for Allen - I had heard SSM was talking to London about Gibson but I guess that ship sailed... unless London's REALLY good. It's a steep price for a rental but London could afford it. They've basically given the conference a giant "hahaha... good luck."

Yep. Agree with you on bringing in a veteran D hopefully to return next year and work on the OA situation for next year for sure. London making a statement and they are already retuning 3/4 of their current line-up. We might need to seriously consider next year will be tougher than expected and look at 26-27 as a all in go for it year. Although anyone can win a series with outstanding goaltending

 

[windsor7]

It doesn't really matter to me. They're also not likely going to find another Ellis; he was a once-in-a-generation Dman and we know those aren't a dime-a-dozen. Bowler has his Sergachev - Protas. The high-scoring Import pick. There hasn't been a D from the Import Draft that's produced anywhere near where Sergachev was. I know a lot on here wanted a D but Protas seems like he's answered the bell.


I mentioned Cristo by name because he has, by far and wide, been the most criticized player on here.


Bring in a veteran D and upgrade the OA positions.

As for Allen - I had heard SSM was talking to London about Gibson but I guess that ship sailed... unless London's REALLY good. It's a steep price for a rental but London could afford it. They've basically given the conference a giant "hahaha... good luck."

It usually never does..

 

[OHLTG]

Yep. Agree with you on bringing in a veteran D hopefully to return next year and work on the OA situation for next year for sure. London making a statement and they are already retuning 3/4 of their current line-up. We might need to seriously consider next year will be tougher than expected and look at 26-27 as a all in go for it year. Although anyone can win a series with outstanding goaltending

The issue with going for it in 2026-27 is you're going to lose significant talent before then. This summer, they lose (right now) Abraham, Mathurin, Morneau, likely Outwater (if not healthy), definitely Winegard, maybe Protas, and maybe Martin. The summer after, you could see Greentree, Spellacy, definitely Protas, and maybe even Belchetz added to that list. That's when you start the rebuild. I'm all for making a small run this season, aiming for 2nd or 3rd round and getting the players some experience, then going all-in next season.

 

[rve24]

You tell me if it matters if they are traded for or drafted. The last time they won a championship they drafted Ellis and Fowler. They traded for Cantin and Young. It's far easier to trade for the latter two than it is to trade for the former two. We are still waiting for Bowler's first Ellis/Fowler/Sergachev.


If that's the cost of an 05 who may or may not return I can't imagine the cost of an 06.

Exactly
....the more you can develop a couple pieces in house. The less assets you need to move to fill a pisition or the more assets you have to add to deals to improve if ya got a surplus at a position.
Ya can't just "acquire" your way to the top in this
( althou Ill add with the potential for FAs to sign with the new rules it helps the acquire your wayyoto the top side of the convo, but I think the FA frenzy may only be a coupke year window til it settles in)
Ldn grabbed a couple freebies and KTown got a good F also.
Those help but if you can develop at all 3 positions your in a much better spot to add or not need to add.

 

[spits]

Yep. Agree with you on bringing in a veteran D hopefully to return next year and work on the OA situation for next year for sure. London making a statement and they are already retuning 3/4 of their current line-up. We might need to seriously consider next year will be tougher than expected and look at 26-27 as a all in go for it year. Although anyone can win a series with outstanding goaltending

London is not returning 3/4 of their lineup. They are losing Barkey, Julien, Bonk, Cowan, Haltunen, Nurmi, Montgomery, Elliot, Sim, and Dickinson is unlikely to be back. Those are all NHL picks. See how London looked on Saturday with 4 guys out ... For comparison, Windsor is losing the OAs and 50/50 on Protas. Haltunen was sent back so I can see Protas being sent back.

They also now only have 1 2nd round pick in the next 4 years. Spits have 6 2nd round picks in the next 4 years. Next year is 100% the year to go for it. Decent chance London also trades their 1st round pick Hawery next month. Yes they will bring in a top euro and probably an American but replacing 10 players is a lot. They won't be nearly as good next season.

 

[windsor7]

The issue with going for it in 2026-27 is you're going to lose significant talent before then. This summer, they lose (right now) Abraham, Mathurin, Morneau, likely Outwater (if not healthy), definitely Winegard, maybe Protas, and maybe Martin. The summer after, you could see Greentree, Spellacy, definitely Protas, and maybe even Belchetz added to that list. That's when you start the rebuild. I'm all for making a small run this season, aiming for 2nd or 3rd round and getting the players some experience, then going all-in next season.

Yet a few teams don't have to "rebuild" as much as Windsor has or will..

 

[Cherrydon]

London is not returning 3/4 of their lineup. They are losing Barkey, Julien, Bonk, Cowan, Haltunen, Nurmi, Montgomery, Elliot, Sim, and Dickinson is unlikely to be back. Those are all NHL picks. See how London looked on Saturday with 4 guys out ...

They also now only have 1 2nd round pick in the next 4 years. Spits have 6 2nd round picks in the next 4 years. Next year is 100% the year to go for it. Decent chance London also trades their 1st round pick Hawery next month. Yes they will bring in a top euro and probably an American but replacing 10 players is a lot. They won't be nearly as good next season.

Ok if all those mentioned leave it is still 65% returning and knowing the Hunters they will fill that spots filled with American kids with the new NCAA decision plus rabbits out of the hat like Elliott out of the WHL. The Knights draft position is always poor because of their annual success and I don't kid myself. The D playing now with Bonk and Dickinson gone are going to be all back. Dickinson a good chance as well. San Jose normally doesnt rush D and can push contract back a another year.

 

[Cherrydon]

The issue with going for it in 2026-27 is you're going to lose significant talent before then. This summer, they lose (right now) Abraham, Mathurin, Morneau, likely Outwater (if not healthy), definitely Winegard, maybe Protas, and maybe Martin. The summer after, you could see Greentree, Spellacy, definitely Protas, and maybe even Belchetz added to that list. That's when you start the rebuild. I'm all for making a small run this season, aiming for 2nd or 3rd round and getting the players some experience, then going all-in next season.

If Greentree Spellacy and Protas return, yes go for it. If Protas is gone we have zero quality imports and low import draft selection this summer. Protas is the key. Belchetz although great is a power forward. Most liklely returning in 26'27. Usually only 1-2 18 yr olds drafted players make it at 18, and those are usually high skilled playmakers that can play both ends

 

[RayzorIsDull]

Ok if all those mentioned leave it is still 65% returning and knowing the Hunters they will fill that spots filled with American kids with the new NCAA decision plus rabbits out of the hat like Elliott out of the WHL. The Knights draft position is always poor because of their annual success and I don't kid myself. The D playing now with Bonk and Dickinson gone are going to be all back. Dickinson a good chance as well. San Jose normally doesnt rush D and can push contract back a another year.

Right, forgive me if I'm not writing the obituary for the London Knights 25-26 season.

 

[OHLTG]

If Greentree Spellacy and Protas return, yes go for it. If Protas is gone we have zero quality imports and low import draft selection this summer. Protas is the key. Belchetz although great is a power forward. Most liklely returning in 26'27. Usually only 1-2 18 yr olds drafted players make it at 18, and those are usually high skilled playmakers that can play both ends

I only mention Belchetz as possible because I've heard that topic at the arena on more than one occasion.

 

[Cherrydon]

I only mention Belchetz as possible because I've heard that topic at the arena on more than one occasion.

He's a gem for sure. Just not the style of player to normally break into the NHL At 18 but ceiling is higher than Greentree most woukd agree on. No offense to Greentree. Cuylle route for both imo.

 

[RayzorIsDull]

It doesn't really matter to me. They're also not likely going to find another Ellis; he was a once-in-a-generation Dman and we know those aren't a dime-a-dozen. Bowler has his Sergachev - Protas. The high-scoring Import pick. There hasn't been a D from the Import Draft that's produced anywhere near where Sergachev was. I know a lot on here wanted a D but Protas seems like he's answered the bell.

So you missed the point of Sergachev being a D. This is your bit we all get it. Bowler hasn't been comfortable taking D in round 1 Abraham-Miedema-Nesbitt-Belchetz. He has his type and vision. Cristoforo being the only D.

 

[Cherrydon]

Love Protas but our real need was an import high end D. Of course import negotiations are back door so you still need someone to commit to the Spits prior to the "import draft". We had plenty of scoring last year, with the players we had (still have) add Belchetz and Lemieux, Nesbitt now with more ice so we would have been fine this year offensively. The real need has not been addressed.

 

[OHLTG]

So you missed the point of Sergachev being a D. This is your bit we all get it. Bowler hasn't been comfortable taking D in round 1 Abraham-Miedema-Nesbitt-Belchetz. He has his type and vision. Cristoforo being the only D.

No, I get that Sergachev is a D, which is why I said "there hasn't been a D from the Import Draft that's produced anywhere near where Sergachev was." You weren't getting a Sergachev-esque player in this draft, at least it doesn't appear that way. While a stud D at the Import Draft was desired on here, a general impact Import has been a major focus for a while... and we have that. It's hard to complain about what this draft got us, unless someone really wants to. I would imagine that if Bowler had drafted a D, said the player was offensive, and the production wasn't there, the overwhelming reaction would be "we just wasted the third overall pick on HIM?" Sorry they couldn't grab what wasn't there?!

As far as the other drafts, go... do you take Nyman last April and hope he reports? Belchetz is a beast, you can't pass that up... and I'm glad they didn't. In 2023, Nesbitt was 20th, and the next closest was Brzustewicz, and I don't think he reported to Ottawa. In 2022, it was Cristoforo, who's come as advertised, an offensive D-man. In 2021, it was a toss-up given COVID and Bowler may have dealt that player for Wright, anyway. In 2020, Abraham was the 14th pick. McCoy or Jackson Edward might have been an option if Bowler wanted a D.

I'm still on board for a high-end D, whether that's Smith, an 05, or even an 06.

 

[Cherrydon]

Like I mentioned the import has to want to report to make it work. Thus year the top 2 D imports neither played for the team whom drafted them. Charlottetown took Radiojavic who signed with Muskegon. Liklely NCAA aspirations at the time only 17. and Niagara drafted Eliasson 6-7 2nd round NHL pick and rights were traded to Barrie in September for only a 3rd round pick in 2028 and a 15th in 2027 Bowler missed the boat. Could have had him dirt cheap and replace Eichler.