Regarding the rumors on Kevin St. Pierre and Colin Chaulk: Nothing official has been done and can't be announced until after the league meetings in Las Vegas the third week of June, accoridng to General Manager David Franke, who also cautions fans that, ``We're evaluating everything and there are going to be changes that will be made. How many I don't know. There will be a new look to the club next year for sure. Whether it invovles these other guys, we're not at that point yet.''
In other words, don't be shocked if it does involve these players, which is exactly what anyone could have told you the day after the season ended as well. These things happen when a team finishes sixth overall and gets knocked out in the first round of the playoffs.
This stuff could also be bargaining positions as well -- from both sides. It could also be an attempt by the team to cut down on salaries. Franke said he wouldn't be surprised if the UHL came down with fewer veterans for next year and a lower salary cap as well. He's not saying it's going to happen, but that it wouldn't shock him. These are things owners have to prepare for.
``We're evaluating,'' Franke said. ``The coach has been meeting with most of the players. All of the players who have left he has met with. He's meeting with the players who stay in town. Nothing has been cast in stone.'' As for the players, it would stink to see them leave, but Colin has been here for four seasons and Frenchy for three -- those are eternity numbers at Class AA hockey. Same with six years for the coach, and management has made clear it doesn't want to make a change there. So, what do you think? Somebody's favorites are going to go.
