Comments on: Big Mac still learning his role..

By: LateNightOilFan

LateNightOilFan — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 22:11:27 +0000

I have a feeling the Isles will be trying to sign Konopka for next year. He’s basically stepped into the captain leadership role in the absence of Dougie Weight and has been quite the motivator for that team. I wouldn’t count on him being available July 1st.

By: chucker

chucker — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:32:13 +0000

Oh, I’m totally down with Konopka. He’s also that fourth line faceoff specialist we need. Carcillo would be nice as well. He’s reportedly very popular with his team mates. Didn’t know about Rypien’s “issues”. I just suggested him because he’s likely the best pound for pound tough guy in the NHL, but yeah, no head cases needed.

By: Racki

Racki — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:47:18 +0000

Yes, I read the same thing on Twitter too.. which would suck. However there is a bit of hope, since he isn’t (re-)signed yet. But at the same time, you’d have to figure if he doesn’t want to play for the Isles again, he won’t want to play for the Oilers.. unless we outrageously overpay him.

By: Steve-O

Steve-O — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:57:46 +0000

I read that on the deadline that the Islanders turned down an offer of a 2nd rounder for the soon to be UFA Konopka. Said writer then mused that it looks as though they wish to resign him. He might not be available come July 1.

By: Racki

Racki — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 06:02:12 +0000

Konopka definitely is on my wishlist. I would probably stay clear of Rypien too. I like that he is an excellent “pound for pound” fighter.. but the fear I’d have is that those crazy issues he has might rub off on players.. or at least just that he wouldn’t gel with the team. He wouldn’t likely have the same destructive effect as Sean Avery though.

But yah, anyways, Konopka.. definite target. If Hordichuk wasn’t so banged up now, he might have been an interest too.

Chucker’s Michael Rupp suggestion also gets my approval.