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It is February 25th, and Jay Bouwmeester is still a Florida Panther. General Manager Jacques Martin is letting the rest of the league know that if they want to take Bouwmeester off his hands, it will not be for prospects and draft picks.
Through multiple interviews, Martin has stated that he would not part with the All-Star defenseman for something that does not improve his team right away. On air with Steve Goldstein last night, Martin claimed that any package offered would have to include a top four defenseman and a forward, preferably a center. And in a conference call earlier in the week, Martin expressed his feelings…
“…I think it’s clear that our priority for this franchise at this point in time is to make the playoffs this year. I think we’re in the process of evaluating what’s available for Jay Bouwmeester, and come March 4th, a decision will be made whether we move forward with Jay on our team or if I feel that I can get something that makes us a better club, then the possibility of moving him… Depending on what’s available, if it’s a good transition, if we feel we can improve certain areas of our hockey club, then that would be a possibility. But I think there’s also a possibility that we retain Jay, then we see where we’re at after the season.”
Basically, Martin has to see something on the table that clearly and instantly upgrades his team. He has not closed his mind to either trading him or keeping him. The way the Panthers have come together as a team, any drastic change this late in the season could disrupt a very cohesive unit. All four lines have their role and have been executing it well. All six defensemen are unafraid to start a rush up ice. This is a team machine, and if they were to lose a pivotal part in Bouwmeester, Martin and the Panthers would have to receive a few pieces in return that are for the better whole. The top priority for this club is to make the playoffs this season. If that means keeping Bouwmeester and hoping for the best in the offseason, so be it. It is playoffs or bust in South Florida.
Thanks to George Richards of the Miami Herald for posting a transcript of the conference call on his blog, On Frozen Pond.
Some Other Articles That You May Enjoy:
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Florida Panthers’ Biggest Move Was Not Making One
The Jay Bouwmeester Article
Current Openings
Inquiring Minds: Should Donald Brashear Be Suspended For This Hit On Blair Betts?
Wanna Chat With Randy Moller of the Florida Panthers?
We hope you enjoyed this post. As always, leaving a comment below is both appreciated and encouraged. Thanks!
This is exactly what I pointed out in an earlier post about the Flyers’ trade deadline rumors. Florida wants something here and now. No other team is more prepared to do that than the Flyers if they really do want to acquire JayBo’s services. I can think of no other team that can package young solid players already making an NHL impact with players from one of the most solid group of prospects in the league.
GM JM is not a guy I’d wish to be right now. This is a tough time for all of us. After waffling for several months, I’m firmly in the camp that dictates keeping Jay if the playoffs are a distinct possibility.
GREAT looking site, Karl!