Semin worth the risk for Canes
The Carolina Hurricanes agreed woth left winger Alexander Semin on a 1-year, $7 million deal Thursday.
Jul 27, 2012
At his best, Alexander Semin is a high-scoring, offensive weapon with electric ability. At his worst, he's a disinterested player who can frustrate a locker room with his overall apathy.
Thursday, the Carolina Hurricanes closed their eyes, held their nose and took the plunge on a one-year, $7 million deal for the former Washington Capitals winger with 197 career goals and 408 points in 469 NHL games, hoping for the best.
While it's a move that comes with risks, it was the right move to make.
When focused, and in the right frame of mind, Semin is a big-time offensive machine. In the 2009 and 2010 seasons, Semin produced 74 goals and 163 points in just 135 games -- and was a plus-61. That either says that his defense was underrated, or his offensive contributions were spectacular. We know it wasn't because the Caps were so splendid defensively, so I'm not sure it matters how Semin arrived at a plus-61. You show me ANY player with that number over a two-year period and I'll show you someone who is contributing to a winning cause.
Of course, there is the downside.
The last two seasons have not been his best. Just 49 goals and 108 points in 143 games and it's impossible to overlook the fact that a 28-year-old player with three 30-goal seasons, was essentially ignored on the free agent market. There's a reason why his best offer was for just one season.
But, in the classic case of risk versus reward, this was a gamble that the Hurricanes are well-equipped to take.
First, this is a team made up of very solid people. With Eric Staal in charge, and high-character players like his brother Jordan, Tuomo Ruutu, Jay Harrison and Tim Gleason in the room, it will be more difficult for Semin to have a negative impact on the team. The Captain is a lead-by-example guy, and last year displayed the work ethic and dedication necessary for this team to achieve their goals. Jordan Staal is similarly suited for leadership as evidenced by the fact that he wore a letter in Pittsburgh.
But, the most important part of the Alexander Semin equation will be the fact that he clearly wants to play in the NHL. He could have signed for a lot more money and had longer job security had he gone back to Russia to play in the KHL. But, on a one-year contract, Semin is essentially auditioning for the next phase of his career. If Semin wants to command a big-money deal on the open market a year from now, he'll have no choice but to deliver the goods. There's no motivation quite like money in the world of professional athletics and that should work to the advantage of the Canes.
Where Semin fits is another story worth discussing.
If head coach Kirk Muller is determined to give the Brothers Staal a chance to play together, it's very easy to see Eric on the left side, Jordan in the middle with Semin on the right wing. Given good health, that could pretty easily work out to be a 250-point line over the course of the season. That would comprise the most explosive scoring line since Eric lined up between Erik Cole and Cory Stillman during the Stanley Cup year.
Regardless, at this stage of the summer, with -- work-stoppage permitting -- just a few weeks before players begin reporting to training camp, the free agent pool is fairly shallow. There are no perfect choices. But, the Hurricanes were still shopping and landed the most talented player left on the shelf.
We have no way of knowing at this stage if this is going to work out for all parties. But, the short-term contract, coupled with the high-caliber people in the Carolina dressing room, should create a positive environment in which everyone can benefit. In the end, this could be a great move for both Semin and the Hurricanes.
Or it won't. That's the risk, but it's one worth taking.
Most Recent Comments
RE: Semin worth the risk for Canes
It's football season..... Who cares......RE: Semin worth the risk for Canes
"That would comprise the most explosive scoring line since Eric lined up between Erik Cole and Cory Stillman during the Stanley Cup year."I would add that the Francis/O'Neil/Kapanan line was pretty potent in their day too. Probably a few points below the Staal/Cole/Stillman totals in their best years, but unquestionably had the same impact.
Posted Jul 29, 9:21 p.m.
Rank: Sports Legend Posts: 23188
Joined: Dec, 2007
Location: Southern Pines, NC
RE: Semin worth the risk for Canes
You must be a Pro. Can you write like Adam Gold? I don't know about this. I think not. You are just a fan it seems to me. So what if you go to the Canes games? You can't speak for all others on here can you? Go Canes. I have been to at least a dozen games up there in the past two years.AG. PLEASE stick with the only sport you know. College Basketball. Other than that, you are USELESS!!!!!!!!- Posted by ktstcanes
Posted Jul 28, 7:05 a.m.
Rank: Sports Legend Posts: 20082
Joined: Dec, 2006
Location: Raleigh, NC
RE: Semin worth the risk for Canes
What the Canes got is exactly what the Caps lost. An explosive player who can light the lamp and take over a game, then go missing for a couple weeks and not give 100%. Good luck with him Canes; I am sure he will torch us the 6 games we play you guys this year!- Posted by Capitals Fan
Great analysis, Caps Fan. At the very least, the Canes won't have to worry about Semin scoring against them! I'm pumped about this move, and I'm hoping that a one-year contract will give Semin the motivation to work hard and play up to the talent he has.
Posted Jul 27, 6:54 p.m.
Rank: Veteran Posts: 379
Joined: Mar, 2007
Location: Cary, NC
RE: Semin worth the risk for Canes
I absolutely agree with this article ....... there is more of an upside to Semin than a downside. His potential is great and often when I have seen a player get a change in locale they respond well. I was often frustrated that the Hurricanes couldn't score more goals, but I really like JR's choice in getting both Semin and Jordan Staal on the team. I am VERY optimistic the Canes will be back in the playoffs this year, and JR's decisions this off-season proves he wants to be back in as well.- Posted by PanthersFan45
Totally agree! I think our defense will be OK....maybe Murphy will find a spot. My biggest concern is the back up to Ward. With Boucher out there is a big question mark if Ward got hurt. Could Peeters handle the #1? I find this concerning but overall I think they are ready to rock and roll!! Love the Semin signing!! Let's Go Canes!!
