On the Wings

Here’s a 5 day old column that’s still relevant. It basically says the Wings must do everything they can to make a run at the Cup next year because the CBA will run out in September 2004. A lockout is very possible and that whole season will probably be lost. When a new agreement is reached, there will most likely be a salary cap, which could be around $32 million. A salary cap like that would rip the Wings apart, if the lost season doesn’t do that beforehand. Players like Yzerman, Hull and Chelios will almost certainly be done after next season, especially if there is no ‘04-’05 season (Hull has said that if there is a lockout, he’s done because he can’t go a year without playing). Lidstrom could even decide to go back to Sweden (he’s been saying he will for years). The Wings would have their young guys left and would still be a good team but much there will be little chance of getting experienced players if they can’t spend the money. Next year has to be the year.