Posse81
October-3rd-2003, 11:29 AM
http://discuss.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/zforum/03/sp_sports_lacanfora100303.htm
Jason La Canfora: Hello everyone. Thanks for coming. Sorry I am a bit late - computer problems - but I am ready to answer any questions you have. Fire away
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: Jason, love your stuff, ask the Post for more space please. I'll play reporter and try to squeeze in 2.5 questions: first, what are the reasons Caps fans should be optimistic this year, and what should cause them concern? And finally, if the NHL does have a lockout before camp starts next year, can it survive?
Jason La Canfora: Thanks so much. I would love more space, but it's tough with so much sports around here.
Caps fans should be optimistic about a good group of forwards in their prime, but a bit worried about the lack of experience on defense. A tough early schedule will also test the team. As for the NHL, I think the only way it can survive is with a new CBA with a salary cap and revenue sharing. Otherwise, teams are going to be folding/contracting.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.: Jason,
I think you do a great job covering the Caps and exposing their challenges despite the assistance you get from Caps management.
What are your thoughts based on his performance, of Caps GM George McPhee remaining as General Manager beyond this season with the Caps?
Jason La Canfora: I think this will be a big year of evaluation for George, as it for everyone in the organization. If some of these recent draft picks play well - Eminger, Semin, Gordon, Pettinger, etc. - and the team is positioned to have good young and cheap players coming out of the lockout, then Ted will be pretty pleased with that, I believe. Reaching the playoffs is the goal for the Caps, and if that occurs there may not be a housecleaning, I suspect.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Jason -- Appreciate all the work you do to get us informed on all the Caps news.
For years now, there has always been rumors of Jagr clashing with coaches and disrupting the chemistry of a team. By being around the team, do you ever notice or recognize this?
Jason La Canfora: I think there are often udercurrents of dissention or diagreement between players on a team and Jaromir has strong feelings about what works best for him. That is not alwasy what the coach believes is the way to go and flare ups arise. Jags is a strong-willed guy and Bruce has tried to give him as much freedom as possible, but the power play and changing linemates seems to spark differing opinions. Much of it is not overt.
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: Hockey is clearly a regional sport. Wouldn't it be a good idea to contract and maximize revenue rather than grow and continue to decline?
Jason La Canfora: I agree. Many GMs and owners around the league quietly believe that a 20-24 team league makes much more sense, but, then again, these were the gusy who could not wait to get their hands on expansion money 10 years ago, using that to keep existing teams alive. To me, a 20 team NHL would be much mroe competitive and makes more sense.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Jason –- How close was Jagr to being traded to New York? Since he wasn’t, do you feel he will last the year in a Capitals’ jersey?
Jason La Canfora: Jaromir is available for trade and every team in the NHL knows he is just a phone call away. The Rangers were the only team to make a real run at him over the summer and remain the only suitor for him. Should they start slowly, Jags start off well and Pavel Bure officially retire due to injury (and thus insurance pick up 75 percent of the $10 million salary) things could really heat up again. It is really up to the Rangers and also Jagr, who would likely be asked to again defer some money and change the option year of his existing contract.
_______________________
Baltimore, Md.: Jason, have the Caps improved their relationship with the MCI Center? I saw too many empty seats last season that should have been sold.
Jason La Canfora: Ted says that things between him and Abe Pollin have never been better and if you at the schedule - can you believe all of the weekend games this year? - you would have to believe him. A lot of people within the Caps organization thought it was important to get some of their concerns about their treatment by MCI Center.Wash Sports and Entertainment out there and I think things are improving now.
_______________________
Clifton, Va.: Jason, my biggest frustration is that Doig and Kiwi are again going to make this team and play regularly. Do you think that management this year will not hesitate to scratch or even demote them should they struggle early?
Jason La Canfora: I would like to think that with guys like Yonkman, Berry and Gruden all pushing for the top 6 that changes will be made from within if one of these two guys is really slumping. Doig is in a different position than Kiwi, and has a much longer noose, so to speak. At least that is the sense I get.
_______________________
PG County, Md.: Poor Nylander! How did Yonkman react to his injury? Who do you think will be put at center -- Zubie, or promoting another center?
Also, what's your opinion about Boumedienne? He seems more mature than the other young D -- doesn't get burned often, jumps up in the play intelligiently -- but does he take dumb penalties?
Jason La Canfora: Nolan was very concerned and quite worried when Nylander went down. It was a freakish thing and no harm was intended. Boumedienne loooks to have made a mark and start the season in the top 6. I really like Zuby at center, but giving him some long term stability at a set position - right wing - also makes a lot of sense and could trigger some big production from him. Tough call.
_______________________
Indianapolis, Ind.: How is Jagr's wrist?
Jason La Canfora: Jags says it was not a problem over the summer after resting it for a a few months and looks 100 percent thus far.
_______________________
Baltimore, Md.: Most predictions so far are for the Caps not to make the playoffs. Do you think they can get it together?
Jason La Canfora: I think they will have a tough time getting in. To me there are 4 teams in this conference who are locks to make the postseason - Ottawa, NJ, Philly and Toronto - and after that it is a crap shoot. A lot fo teams have a weak defense and some - Philly, Boston, have potential goaltender issues as well. It will be a real struggle, I believe.
_______________________
New York, N.Y.: Is Alexander Semin the real deal?
Jason La Canfora: He has all the talent in the world, but adjusting to life in a new country, learning a new language and getting bigger and stronger - he has to learn to be stronger on his skates and not go down so easily - will be what turns him into a true impact player. Looks like he will start the year on one of the two top lines and his level of play and comfort will dictate if or when he goes back to Russia.
_______________________
Springfield, Va.: Jason, Since Dale Hunter's departure from the Caps, I have questioned Konowalchuk's ability to lead this team as captain even though the team voted for him. We all know Olie is a vocal and strong leader but he can't captain. I wanted to know if you believe that this team is now Jagr's team to lead and if he does not, should he. If I remember correctly, Jagr was the captain the of the Penguins prior to Lemieux's return in 2000.
Jason La Canfora: Jagr is not really too interesting in that role and he is not a vocal guy either. Also would be kind of weird for management to give the C to a guy on the trading block.
Kono is mor eof a heart and soul, bring it every night guy, and he sets a silent tone for the team. Olie is the real leader, with or without the C.
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: Jason,
There have been a couple of articles in the past few months hinting that younger players feel that Cassidy is playing favorites with guys from his previous minor league teams. How big of an issue is this?
Also, how is Dave Fay doing?
Jason La Canfora: Dave is coming along quite, well, thanks for asking. You might start seeing him around again in a few weeks.
I think Butch really has to work to figtht that perception and if I were McPhee I would put the kibash (not sure if I spelled that correctly) on any more Grand Rapids guys coming to the team. I think Berry could be a very servicable defenseman in this league, but being scratched for 30 straight games is not going to help his development or the team.
_______________________
Reisterstown, Md.: Why is attendance a problem at Caps games? If you worked for the Caps what would you do to increase attendance?
Jason La Canfora: Win a playoff series or two. It works wonders.
_______________________
washingtonpost.com: Jason is having some computer difficulties but will be back up in a moment.
_______________________
Springfield, Va.: Jason -- last year there were questions about the Caps "team chemistry." How is it this year (so far). Do the players respect Cassidy? Does Jagr have a good attitude toward being here with the trade rumors? In general, what is the attitude of this team going into the new season.
Jason La Canfora: I think there is some cautious optimism that the team will be more unified and spirited this season, but it all remains to be seen. There definitely some issues under the surface that could arise if the club does not play well.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Who's the odds on favorite to win the Cup this season?
Jason La Canfora: In my crystal ball I se an Ottawa/Detroit final. But then again, I am almost never right, and there is usually a team that comes out of nowehere like the Panthers, Caps, Canes and Ducks have done recently. Vancouver is a sleeping giant.
_______________________
Ballston: new practice rink: What's the current scoop on the practice rink at Ballston? I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a rink less than a mile from my house!
Jason La Canfora: Dick Patrick told me their are taking bids and looking at all ofthe financial requirements and will make a decision by the New Year. It looks pretty good right now, but is not certain and in the end money will go a long way to settling this.
_______________________
Washington, D.C. : Nylander went down yesterday: not good news. But I have to think that, if the Caps are going to lose one of their better players to injury, I'd rather he be a center than a Brendan Witt or Olie Kolzig. Do you think McPhee will make any moves for another center? or rely on the depth we have at forward? Also, Semin can move! I hope he can make the leap the NHL very very soon.
Jason La Canfora: I could not agree with you more. Center is the one position where they could take this kind of hit.
I would be very surprised if George did anything to get a forward - they may get a Dman in the waiver draft is someone decent is out there when their pick comes up. The budget is set right now and I do not foresee more spending until a big salary like Jagr or Lang is moved.
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: Jason, are you permanently contributing to The Hockey News or is it a temporary thing until Dave Fay returns?
Jason La Canfora: I am covering for Dave until he comes back.
_______________________
Beltsville, Md.: How do you see the quality of our defensive corp matching up with NHL quality?
Jason La Canfora: I think a lot of teams in the east have serious D problems.
_______________________
Myersville, Md.: In your opinion, do you think Peter Bondra will retire as a Capital, given that the lockout will likely happen next season and that he had asked to be traded two years ago?
Jason La Canfora: I think he will retire as a Caps.
_______________________
Charlottesville, Va.: Although I think he was an upgrade from Zednik, do you think there is any feeling in the Cap's front office that Zubrus needs to have a break out year this year?
Jason La Canfora: They would love to see more goals, but love his overall play as well.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Has the coaching staff shown film clips of Borque to Emminger? There's a Hall of Famer who was also a master of the quick outlet pass.
Jason La Canfora: Eminger does not have Bourque's offensive flair, but could be a clone of Calle Johansson when all is said and done.
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: The waiver draft is taking place right now. Any early word on pickups?
Jason La Canfora: I believe it starts at noon and usually last no more than an hour, if that. Should know more in an hour or so.
_______________________
Princeton, N.J.: Hey Jason,
I haven't had a chance to see any preseason games this year, but can't wait until the season starts to get games on my dish. I am eager to find out which line combos the Caps are going to go with and how they look so far. Do you think Cassidy will try and keep his lines together a bit more this year, they were all over the place last year (except Kono, Halpren and Grier) and maybe that hurt the chemistry a bit?
Thanks.
Jason La Canfora: I think he will attempt to do that but hockey is such a game of ebb and flow, and injuries always rise up, so it is difficult to achieve. I covered the Red Wings for three season and once watched Scotty Bowman use 12 different line combinations in the first period of a playoff game. I am in now way comparing Butch to Scotty, but there is no one way to handle lines. But to players like Lang and Jagr, having consistent linemates seemes to be pretty important to them.
_______________________
Jason La Canfora: Well guys I have to run. But thanks for all of the great questions and I look forward to doing this again soon. Cheers.
_______________________
Jason La Canfora: Hello everyone. Thanks for coming. Sorry I am a bit late - computer problems - but I am ready to answer any questions you have. Fire away
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: Jason, love your stuff, ask the Post for more space please. I'll play reporter and try to squeeze in 2.5 questions: first, what are the reasons Caps fans should be optimistic this year, and what should cause them concern? And finally, if the NHL does have a lockout before camp starts next year, can it survive?
Jason La Canfora: Thanks so much. I would love more space, but it's tough with so much sports around here.
Caps fans should be optimistic about a good group of forwards in their prime, but a bit worried about the lack of experience on defense. A tough early schedule will also test the team. As for the NHL, I think the only way it can survive is with a new CBA with a salary cap and revenue sharing. Otherwise, teams are going to be folding/contracting.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.: Jason,
I think you do a great job covering the Caps and exposing their challenges despite the assistance you get from Caps management.
What are your thoughts based on his performance, of Caps GM George McPhee remaining as General Manager beyond this season with the Caps?
Jason La Canfora: I think this will be a big year of evaluation for George, as it for everyone in the organization. If some of these recent draft picks play well - Eminger, Semin, Gordon, Pettinger, etc. - and the team is positioned to have good young and cheap players coming out of the lockout, then Ted will be pretty pleased with that, I believe. Reaching the playoffs is the goal for the Caps, and if that occurs there may not be a housecleaning, I suspect.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Jason -- Appreciate all the work you do to get us informed on all the Caps news.
For years now, there has always been rumors of Jagr clashing with coaches and disrupting the chemistry of a team. By being around the team, do you ever notice or recognize this?
Jason La Canfora: I think there are often udercurrents of dissention or diagreement between players on a team and Jaromir has strong feelings about what works best for him. That is not alwasy what the coach believes is the way to go and flare ups arise. Jags is a strong-willed guy and Bruce has tried to give him as much freedom as possible, but the power play and changing linemates seems to spark differing opinions. Much of it is not overt.
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: Hockey is clearly a regional sport. Wouldn't it be a good idea to contract and maximize revenue rather than grow and continue to decline?
Jason La Canfora: I agree. Many GMs and owners around the league quietly believe that a 20-24 team league makes much more sense, but, then again, these were the gusy who could not wait to get their hands on expansion money 10 years ago, using that to keep existing teams alive. To me, a 20 team NHL would be much mroe competitive and makes more sense.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Jason –- How close was Jagr to being traded to New York? Since he wasn’t, do you feel he will last the year in a Capitals’ jersey?
Jason La Canfora: Jaromir is available for trade and every team in the NHL knows he is just a phone call away. The Rangers were the only team to make a real run at him over the summer and remain the only suitor for him. Should they start slowly, Jags start off well and Pavel Bure officially retire due to injury (and thus insurance pick up 75 percent of the $10 million salary) things could really heat up again. It is really up to the Rangers and also Jagr, who would likely be asked to again defer some money and change the option year of his existing contract.
_______________________
Baltimore, Md.: Jason, have the Caps improved their relationship with the MCI Center? I saw too many empty seats last season that should have been sold.
Jason La Canfora: Ted says that things between him and Abe Pollin have never been better and if you at the schedule - can you believe all of the weekend games this year? - you would have to believe him. A lot of people within the Caps organization thought it was important to get some of their concerns about their treatment by MCI Center.Wash Sports and Entertainment out there and I think things are improving now.
_______________________
Clifton, Va.: Jason, my biggest frustration is that Doig and Kiwi are again going to make this team and play regularly. Do you think that management this year will not hesitate to scratch or even demote them should they struggle early?
Jason La Canfora: I would like to think that with guys like Yonkman, Berry and Gruden all pushing for the top 6 that changes will be made from within if one of these two guys is really slumping. Doig is in a different position than Kiwi, and has a much longer noose, so to speak. At least that is the sense I get.
_______________________
PG County, Md.: Poor Nylander! How did Yonkman react to his injury? Who do you think will be put at center -- Zubie, or promoting another center?
Also, what's your opinion about Boumedienne? He seems more mature than the other young D -- doesn't get burned often, jumps up in the play intelligiently -- but does he take dumb penalties?
Jason La Canfora: Nolan was very concerned and quite worried when Nylander went down. It was a freakish thing and no harm was intended. Boumedienne loooks to have made a mark and start the season in the top 6. I really like Zuby at center, but giving him some long term stability at a set position - right wing - also makes a lot of sense and could trigger some big production from him. Tough call.
_______________________
Indianapolis, Ind.: How is Jagr's wrist?
Jason La Canfora: Jags says it was not a problem over the summer after resting it for a a few months and looks 100 percent thus far.
_______________________
Baltimore, Md.: Most predictions so far are for the Caps not to make the playoffs. Do you think they can get it together?
Jason La Canfora: I think they will have a tough time getting in. To me there are 4 teams in this conference who are locks to make the postseason - Ottawa, NJ, Philly and Toronto - and after that it is a crap shoot. A lot fo teams have a weak defense and some - Philly, Boston, have potential goaltender issues as well. It will be a real struggle, I believe.
_______________________
New York, N.Y.: Is Alexander Semin the real deal?
Jason La Canfora: He has all the talent in the world, but adjusting to life in a new country, learning a new language and getting bigger and stronger - he has to learn to be stronger on his skates and not go down so easily - will be what turns him into a true impact player. Looks like he will start the year on one of the two top lines and his level of play and comfort will dictate if or when he goes back to Russia.
_______________________
Springfield, Va.: Jason, Since Dale Hunter's departure from the Caps, I have questioned Konowalchuk's ability to lead this team as captain even though the team voted for him. We all know Olie is a vocal and strong leader but he can't captain. I wanted to know if you believe that this team is now Jagr's team to lead and if he does not, should he. If I remember correctly, Jagr was the captain the of the Penguins prior to Lemieux's return in 2000.
Jason La Canfora: Jagr is not really too interesting in that role and he is not a vocal guy either. Also would be kind of weird for management to give the C to a guy on the trading block.
Kono is mor eof a heart and soul, bring it every night guy, and he sets a silent tone for the team. Olie is the real leader, with or without the C.
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: Jason,
There have been a couple of articles in the past few months hinting that younger players feel that Cassidy is playing favorites with guys from his previous minor league teams. How big of an issue is this?
Also, how is Dave Fay doing?
Jason La Canfora: Dave is coming along quite, well, thanks for asking. You might start seeing him around again in a few weeks.
I think Butch really has to work to figtht that perception and if I were McPhee I would put the kibash (not sure if I spelled that correctly) on any more Grand Rapids guys coming to the team. I think Berry could be a very servicable defenseman in this league, but being scratched for 30 straight games is not going to help his development or the team.
_______________________
Reisterstown, Md.: Why is attendance a problem at Caps games? If you worked for the Caps what would you do to increase attendance?
Jason La Canfora: Win a playoff series or two. It works wonders.
_______________________
washingtonpost.com: Jason is having some computer difficulties but will be back up in a moment.
_______________________
Springfield, Va.: Jason -- last year there were questions about the Caps "team chemistry." How is it this year (so far). Do the players respect Cassidy? Does Jagr have a good attitude toward being here with the trade rumors? In general, what is the attitude of this team going into the new season.
Jason La Canfora: I think there is some cautious optimism that the team will be more unified and spirited this season, but it all remains to be seen. There definitely some issues under the surface that could arise if the club does not play well.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Who's the odds on favorite to win the Cup this season?
Jason La Canfora: In my crystal ball I se an Ottawa/Detroit final. But then again, I am almost never right, and there is usually a team that comes out of nowehere like the Panthers, Caps, Canes and Ducks have done recently. Vancouver is a sleeping giant.
_______________________
Ballston: new practice rink: What's the current scoop on the practice rink at Ballston? I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a rink less than a mile from my house!
Jason La Canfora: Dick Patrick told me their are taking bids and looking at all ofthe financial requirements and will make a decision by the New Year. It looks pretty good right now, but is not certain and in the end money will go a long way to settling this.
_______________________
Washington, D.C. : Nylander went down yesterday: not good news. But I have to think that, if the Caps are going to lose one of their better players to injury, I'd rather he be a center than a Brendan Witt or Olie Kolzig. Do you think McPhee will make any moves for another center? or rely on the depth we have at forward? Also, Semin can move! I hope he can make the leap the NHL very very soon.
Jason La Canfora: I could not agree with you more. Center is the one position where they could take this kind of hit.
I would be very surprised if George did anything to get a forward - they may get a Dman in the waiver draft is someone decent is out there when their pick comes up. The budget is set right now and I do not foresee more spending until a big salary like Jagr or Lang is moved.
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: Jason, are you permanently contributing to The Hockey News or is it a temporary thing until Dave Fay returns?
Jason La Canfora: I am covering for Dave until he comes back.
_______________________
Beltsville, Md.: How do you see the quality of our defensive corp matching up with NHL quality?
Jason La Canfora: I think a lot of teams in the east have serious D problems.
_______________________
Myersville, Md.: In your opinion, do you think Peter Bondra will retire as a Capital, given that the lockout will likely happen next season and that he had asked to be traded two years ago?
Jason La Canfora: I think he will retire as a Caps.
_______________________
Charlottesville, Va.: Although I think he was an upgrade from Zednik, do you think there is any feeling in the Cap's front office that Zubrus needs to have a break out year this year?
Jason La Canfora: They would love to see more goals, but love his overall play as well.
_______________________
Alexandria, Va.: Has the coaching staff shown film clips of Borque to Emminger? There's a Hall of Famer who was also a master of the quick outlet pass.
Jason La Canfora: Eminger does not have Bourque's offensive flair, but could be a clone of Calle Johansson when all is said and done.
_______________________
Arlington, Va.: The waiver draft is taking place right now. Any early word on pickups?
Jason La Canfora: I believe it starts at noon and usually last no more than an hour, if that. Should know more in an hour or so.
_______________________
Princeton, N.J.: Hey Jason,
I haven't had a chance to see any preseason games this year, but can't wait until the season starts to get games on my dish. I am eager to find out which line combos the Caps are going to go with and how they look so far. Do you think Cassidy will try and keep his lines together a bit more this year, they were all over the place last year (except Kono, Halpren and Grier) and maybe that hurt the chemistry a bit?
Thanks.
Jason La Canfora: I think he will attempt to do that but hockey is such a game of ebb and flow, and injuries always rise up, so it is difficult to achieve. I covered the Red Wings for three season and once watched Scotty Bowman use 12 different line combinations in the first period of a playoff game. I am in now way comparing Butch to Scotty, but there is no one way to handle lines. But to players like Lang and Jagr, having consistent linemates seemes to be pretty important to them.
_______________________
Jason La Canfora: Well guys I have to run. But thanks for all of the great questions and I look forward to doing this again soon. Cheers.
_______________________