The Islanders enter into this season once again looking rather young and rather inexperienced. Even more than that, the Islanders enter into the season looking rather vulnerable considering the fact that they lack a true NHL enforcer and instigator on their roster. The lack of an enforcer has been one of the hottest Islander discussions this summer, and today, a solution may have been found, albeit a very unpopular one.
The Ottawa Senators beat writer for the Ottawa Citizen is reporting in today’s sports section that the performances of Senator prospects such as defenseman Erik Karlsson and center Peter Regin is forcing general manager Bryan Murray to keep his eyes open for any cap-clearing and roster-opening moves. One of the major names in play for a trade is none other than the extremely-hated Jarko Ruutu, who has not only become known for his heinous words and ways, but for his ability to put up some numbers as a fourth-line instigator and fighter.
To be fair, Ruutu would be able to find a good role here on the Islanders. He is a pretty decent skater, so it would not cause too much of an issue for him to be able to keep up in Scott Gordon’s up-tempo system, and he has averaged about 7 goals and 9 assists each year throughout his career. Furthermore, the Islanders need for an instigator and fighter would be answered by him, at least for the time being.
On the flipside, bringing in a player like Ruutu would be like bringing a whale into the room. He isn’t always the cleanest player on the ice, and the Islanders have had bad past experiences with a player very similar to him in Chris Simon. Furthermore, he isn’t considered the best all-around locker room guy, even if he is protecting his teammates on the ice. With two years left on his contract at $1.3 million per year (NHLNumbers.Com), it is quite a gamble.
Trade-wise, since this is obviously very important to this decision, I believe it would be relatively inexpensive for the Islanders to acquire him. Considering Ottawa’s desire to open up two roster spots and dump salary, the Islanders may only have to give up a late-round pick (5th or 6th) to acquire him.
So, I put the question on the table. Considering he is available, do you think that Garth Snow should try to acquire Jarko Ruutu?
I’ll post my opinion later tonight, as I don’t want to sway anyone one way or the other!
-Justin (IslesNet@Gmail.Com)
1 comment:
I've watched Ruutu from afar and I've never liked him. He took that run at Jagr a few years back in the Olympics (I think) and ever since then I've wanted the Rangers to take his head. I feel the same way about Ruutu as most people feel about Avery. I don't think he'd solve your need for an "enforcer"; he's an agitator but doesn't drop the gloves unless it's with a lightweight. I think Reich might make the squad and he'll help in the toughness department.
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