They (Borgman/Rosen) both played well. But I feel it came down to the last game, where Borgman had 3 shots, and less mistakes. In addition he does bring size, and "beast-mode" that we currently do not have on the back end (esp losing Polak). In addition he is creative and has a hard shot to boot. Rosen to me is a hybrid. He is like a cross of Rielly/Gardiner, which is a damn good hybrid, however; Rosen made one too many bad choices that last game, and again he brings something good to the table, it is just we have it already. So I think the management put need, and performance together and made the right choice for now. Borgman could do badly early. At the same time Rosen could do just as bad in the AHL which would mean then that we call up Dermott. Either way it was a good competition, I feel the better player won. Bring on real games, and then we will see how he is. It should be noted obviously size isnt everything but Borgman can skate for a bigger player, and the way he hits look out. I hope he does as well as I think he can. If so we now have another top 4 D (he just isnt there because of handedness and roster room). I think he can develop into top 4 no problem at all.
Finally our international scouts deserve a raise. Last year Zaitsev. They hit the mark on all 3 fronts this year Rosen, Aaltonenn, and Borgman. Lets not forget Zaitsev's Russian commrad (damn it forget his name Igor something), anyway Zaitsev has already talked to him, so have our management. If all goes as planned (if it is still a plan), we sign him as soon as KHL season is done. He is 6foot2 and 210lb RHD with a cannon apparently. I look for Carrick to move aside, and doubt we keep Hainsey unless he really "WOW's" this year. Keep in mind Lily and or Dermott may crack the roster next reason. Looks to me like a log jam. At some point or other we will have to trade some of these assets
Kap, Leivo,Dermott,Carrick,JVR,Bozak,Komarov--Before you crucify me, I am not saying all of those players. But look up and down the lineup, then at the contracts, we cannot keep all of the above, and there a some I didnt mention. If we keep signing international guys, and they keep exceeding expectations and winning spots you have to do deals. Plus we are a contender now or very, very close. Why I think Zaitsev's pal will make the team; if he is better than Carrick which shouldnt be too hard, he immediately makes the team. His handedness alone would be why. As to say if he is as good, or better (Carrick just made the team) so why wouldnt he? Also the size and shot factor. Anyway excited for tomorrow! I hope Cyborg runs over Laine.
GO LEAFS GO
I've hated it from the start.
