Disagree Dump he is not getting traded. The cap recapture is too painful plus every GM and even Richards himself knows he is likely getting bought out. Richards is a east coast guy. He grew up in Prince Edward Island he is not going to accept a trade when he knows he can get his money AND be a free agent. The problem with Richards is his salary and the threat of cap recapture which would crush our cap. Richards once bought out is a very good player at $4m. I believe the reason he wasn't bought out is Sather knew he would sign w someone else in the division for $3-4m and might just come back in good shape. They need to roll the dice this year and hope for the best. If he has a great season as unlikely as that sounds you consider bringing him back. If he sukkkkks again you cut him loose before the cap recapture really causes problems. Sather was stuck in a pickle this offseason.
If the Rangers do not get off to good start in October, Richards will be the first to go. We shall see what a good playmaker he is........I have my doubts. He is not as fast as he was 3 years ago. He buckled to the New York life style. Should have let him go. Who knows. Maybe Sather can sell him to a wanting team.
no one has even considered he could have a huge bounce back year. Before we had him, we would kill to get him now we want to dismiss him before a reg season game. divarella was his problem, new coach new richards. this guy is primed and ready to show the world he's a top player in the league. last year's head roach was holding him down. hes projected 24G 40A 73Pts which would be awesome, i think he'll reach and surpass these lofty expectations.
Means nothing where he grew up. At this point, Richards would accept a trade to any team in the league. When you are told you aren't wanted and you are getting paid a ton, you suddenly will change where you want to play.
I would agree w you Dump if not for the impending buyout. Richards is in a unique situation: He can potentially get 2/3 of a long term salary AND be a free agent and pick where he signs. Sather would have to find a GM to take him and Richards has a NMC. Not a good combo
