Michael Arace commentary: These trades produce little excitemen...

I don't know why, exactly, but it doesn't seem as though the CBJ got much value. I suppose something is better than nothing where UFAs are concerned. Still this set of trades seems more of a piece with the way the whole season has gone. I think our GM underperformed this year, too.

It was Derick Brassard that went ahead of Mueller not Zherdev. The list of players we should have drafted instead of Zherdev is much longer. Thomas Vanek, Zach Parise, Ryan Getzlaf, Ryan Kessler to name a few.

It's time to raise the bar. This organization was built on lo expectations. Columbus was so happy to get a "professional" team that the fans didn't demand measurable progress toward winning a title.

Players have been coddled. Rick Nash was babied from the very start and now he's a soft punk. He's a nice guy and a talented player but he doesn't have that edge to him. That's because the organization and the fans haven't challenged him to be a winner.

This needs to change. This season is over, but the players can use the remaining games to find an identity. Get mean, play hard and find something to build on. Next year the motto needs to be "no excuses, no whining." That means no complaining when the coach calls you out, RJ. That means understanding that 'C' on your sweater means you have to regulate, Nash. If this team doesn't contend for the divisional title and make a run in the post season, I'd just as soon see every one of these losers pack their bags and play somewhere else. You're paid to win, guys. If you're not winning you're worthless.

Disappointed they got rid of Raffi. They pretty much gave him away.

consequences and accountability come to mind. Who has it and who is ready to accept it...

Getting rid of Torres was a mistake, he's the only guy on the team that plays with Heart, every shift, every time, even while all the other players quit on Hitch he still worked hard. Raffie i hope u resign next year. Thansk for your efforts here, u will be missed by the fans. To us u were worth an extra million for your efforts and dedication. Good luck....