Another thread about Yakupov...

[jer_33]

Any guesses on production next season? I've got Yaks in a potential deal for Getzlaf (acquiring), you guys think Yaks can he get to similar top-line production in the next two/three seasons?

[doulos]

I would say he'll do a touch better than his rookie year - so 55-60 points. He's going to have much more solid players on his line than last season, another year of development and offseason work, and the powerplay, which he should feature on, will be better than it was last season.

[Spec7ral]

When eakins gets fired 15 games into the season his numbers will hit a mercurial rise.

[doulos]

When eakins gets fired 15 games into the season his numbers will hit a mercurial rise.

Zero chance of this.

[jer_33]

I'm looking at pushing for a top-line player next season (Ovie or Getzlaf), and it will likely cost me Yaks/Bishop/12th overall, plus prospects. Worth it?

I've also got an offer of Stepan/Barrie straight-up for Yaks.

Finished 5th last season, looking to move up the ladder. Bishop saved my ass last season w/ Rinne out, but we've only got 90 goalie starts so he is a luxury.

[Spec7ral]

Zero chance of this.

I didn't realize eakins had a "no-fire" clause in his contract, my apologies! In that case Yakupov will need to be traded because eakins couldn't coach his way out of a handbag.

[doulos]

Alright smarty pants, I get your point.

I'll change my response to "I don't see any realistic set of circumstances that lead to his firing"

[ds760]

They will bring in Iron Mike since he's so good with Russian kids now!

[doulos]

Only if they are bringing him in as an object lesson of how far one man call fall after repeated failures.

"See here boys, this is what happens if you continue down your current path."