Training camp questions #11: does Josh Gorges make this team?

[Doohicksie]

Based on skill set, he should not make this team.    But he makes $4mil and has is the most experienced defender, so he stays on as a bottom pairing guy and likely sees more time as injuries dictate.

 

But in the second half of the season his usage will decrease because, you know, saving him for the playoffs.

[Lanny]

He will be in the top 6 on opening night.

Housley will want a veteran presence on the team to help him roll out his system.  As the system clicks, Josh's presence on the blue line will be less critical.

I agree, if everyone is healthy I think he's a bottom pair guy and Beaulieu is scratched. 

[jeffismagic]

I have been ready to move on for a while now.

[Thorner]

He will be in the top 6 on opening night.

Housley will want a veteran presence on the team to help him roll out his system.  As the system clicks, Josh's presence on the blue line will be less critical.

 

 

I can't see Josh being there, because where is he going to play? He'd have to beat out Beaulieu. Not gonna happen.

 

I agree that it will come down to Gorges vs Antipin for the last spot in the top 6.  Risto, Scandella, McCabe, Bogo and Beaulieu are all locks IMHO.

 

I do think though that Antipin will have to earn it, and that it's far from certain that he'll do so (although I sure hope he does).

 

I don't think it's Gorges v Antipin, because there is no way Gorges can beat out a guy who, aside from anything else, actually plays on the right side. Gorges can't. Gorges only chance is to find space on the left side. Barring a camp injury, I really can't see him making it into the opening 6.

[Randall Flagg]

Gorges was a bottom 3 regular playing D in the entire league last year in case anyone forgot

[Thorner]

Gorges was a bottom 3 regular playing D in the entire league last year in case anyone forgot

Well, I had forgotten.......thanks, man.

 

:p

[Sabel79]

No matter what, at maximum he goes away after this year whether he plays in the meantime or not. His salary isn't negatively impacting what the team can or will do. All good.

[TheAud]

I could see him traded for "future considerations" or it's equivalent. 
I'm really hoping this regime decides there is no reason for Gorges to see the ice for the Sabres this year. Casey Nelson, Guhle, Fedun, Falk...anyone else really.