Upon the return of HFNHL training camps The Hawks received news that Ron Francis and Magnus Arvedson would not be returning to the team for the 2005-2006 season. The loss of the two players puts a damper on the hopes of the Hawks dreams at making a cup run as both players played vital roles on the cub and will be sorely missed. Francis, 42 years old has had a storied career and is a sure bet to make the Hall once he's elligibe. After the year off he just felt it was time to spend time with his family and hang up his skates. Arvedson meanwhile has had too many nagging injuries over the years and felt he could no longer play his game at a competitive level and risk permanent injury.
The one good thing about these retirements is that it puts the team in the market for a new #2 C behind Sakic and frees up some much needed money. Who's going to step up now though? Is Weiss the answer or should the team look outside the organization for a new pivot? Only time will tell.
In other news the Hawks signed 15 prospects to contracts. All are expected to be on the farm team but will get invites to training camp so the team can get a long look at them as some of them are expected to make the jump next year.
The one good thing about these retirements is that it puts the team in the market for a new #2 C behind Sakic and frees up some much needed money. Who's going to step up now though? Is Weiss the answer or should the team look outside the organization for a new pivot? Only time will tell.
In other news the Hawks signed 15 prospects to contracts. All are expected to be on the farm team but will get invites to training camp so the team can get a long look at them as some of them are expected to make the jump next year.
