Concerning Bill Houlder and Cale Hulse, I expect to see at least one
of them returning this fall. And I'd have to say it'll be Houlder.

As it is, IMO, the foundation of our team's defense lies with Kimmo
Timonen and Karlis Skrastins. Despite his defensive shortcomings,
Andy Delmore will be staying, and Jason York earned his keep this
past season.

As usual, I'd like to see Mark Eaton claim a permanent position on
the blueline. Again, he's defensively sound and consistent; he's
dependable. (I also think he could contribute offensively if given
the opportunity.)

Robert Schnabel impressed a lot of people in training camp last
season, being the last defenseman cut. I wouldn't be surprised at
all to see him in the line-up to open 2003/2004.

I think the team is hoping for another pleasant surprise (a la
Skrastins) with Andrei Mukhachev. He's an older player (he turned 23
on draft day) who was a regular in the Russian Super League.

And Tomas Kloucek played 52 game with the Rangers two seasons ago,
so he should get some consideration as well.

Christopher "Beautiful" Carlson
Canada's #1 Nashville Predators Fan
"You can never have too many pucks."