Heatley Feedback

I recieved this response from the Highlander (FUNHL GMs have their names changed to protect the innocent):

Red Five and I were discussing how this news, like all hockey news, is instant proof that the Severed Heads have improved. It has become so automatic that I, and I suspect others, are quick to disregard it as so much hot air. In this instance, however, I think the Sens have a player that will make their team far, far better and may be the key (along with Hasek) that could put them over the top. In the pts department, however, I think this is still a bit of of a question mark as Ottawa's goal is to win while Atalanta's may be to entertain. Daniel Alfredsson would be a much higher scoring player on another team but he sacrifices some offense for solid team defence. Danny Heatley will be asked to do the same, and I suspect he will do so gladly. Will he be a dominant NHL RWer, absolutely. Will he outscore Hossa in the FunHL, not necessarily.

AR: Do I sense a coke bet (that is a 'can of coca-cola', for those who are not FUNHLr's) related to who performs better? Here it is again in print; Heatley will outscore Hossa - any takers?

As for your contention that all news improves the fortunes of the Severed Heads consider the following:

Lindros leaves the sinking Rangers ship for the Leafs.

Selanne signs with the high powered Ducks

Heatley leaves young unproven Atlanta for deep and talented Ottawa

Slegr re-signs in Boston (where he will play on the pp with Leech)

Roberts will play for a Keenan team (and thus I believe move his PIM way up)

All of which I think are signficant gains for the 'Heads.

However, all is not wonderful at the 'Heads training camp;

Jagr is still a Ranger. Not bad in and of itself, but Sather has surrounded him with fragile Jagr-parasites like Straka and Rucinsky, and did not sign any high talent free agents to round out the team (especially in key spots like defense and goal) - not a good sign.

Afinogenov still plays for the totally hapless Sabres.

Foote moves from Colorado (where he had serious +/- potential) to Columbus, and while he will certainly get more quality offensive minutes for me to play him +/- (which is where his real value lies) would be sheer folly.