The Campbell Effect

Call me crazy, but does anybody else think that Brian Campbell is the most sought after free agent this summer?

After putting up a career year with The Sabres and San Jose Sharks, Campbell is in the prime of his career and is ready to cash in. Almost every team in the league is looking for power play help and with his passing abilities his agent's cell phone will be ringing non stop leading into July 1st.

But why talk about how much money Brian Campbell is going to receive. We know it's going to be around 5-7 million per year. A more unique perspective is looking at what will happen once it is announced that he has officially signed with a franchise. Only one team is going to be able to lock up his vision with the extra skater for years to come. What about the other teams? Where will they look?

Lets take a look at the other UFA Dmen.

Wade Redden- Poor Wade, a great opportunity to get himself a monster contract is now ruined by two sub par seasons. Regardless Redden not too long ago got himself a 50 point season with a +35. Wouldn't surprise me if a team overpays for his services just moments after losing Campbell.

Mark Streit- The Habs didn't miss a beat on their Power Play even with the departure of Sheldon Souray's shot from the point, and Mark Streit is a huge reason for that. Believe it or not he actually kept up with Campbell on the offensive side of things and will probably be a lot cheaper than both Campbell and Redden.

John-Michael Liles- I'm amazed that the Avs let this guy become a UFA, sure he had an off year (still got 32 points) but he's the type of offensive defensemen that every team needs. Liles will definitely get a lot of attention once all the chips start falling on July 1st.

Rob Blake- He may be running out of gas but nobody really knows if its because of his age...or he was playing on LA. Someone will take a chance, at worse he'll just be a physical dman that gets 30 points. At best, he proves it wasn't his age the last two years...and gets back to his normal 45-50 point range. Probably going to have to take a decent pay cut.

Brad Stuart- He seems like he has been around forever, but Stuart is only 28. He used to be a lock for at least 30 points and could even near 40 on good years...but not anymore.

Thankfully, the teams who miss out on Campbell wont just be stuck with UFA's to settle with. What about the trade market?

Dan Boyle- Rumor was they were trying to deal him at the deadline last season, and the rumors are yet again popping up heading into July 1st. Simply put, Boyle is an offensive machine. Sure he sucks at defense and nobody really knows if he can put up big numbers without Vinny and St. Louis, but if you need offense on your blueline he'll provide it.

Brian McCabe- Useless goon turned goon with an awesome shot, Brian McCabe has put together some huge offensive years since 01-02. The Leafs want to get younger and McCabe is 33. Sure he is good for an awful giveaway every other game...BUT, how many players can get you 19 goals, 70 points and 120 PIMS from the point?

Pavel Kubina- Lets just get something straight. The Maple Leafs signing Pavel Kubina was a massive mistake. Throw on top of that the cash he's making AND a no trade clause...well you have yourself a typical Leafs management decision. He filled in decent with McCabe missing time due to injuries and rumor has it if San Jose loses Campbell...they are willing to trade for Kubina.

Jay Bouwmeester- Man what is Florida doing? Franchise goalie? Gone. Franchise center? Gone. Franchise defensemen? Wants to leave. I can't believe Florida would trade him, but word is Jay is unhappy with the teams lack of competitiveness and direction. Word is Chicago is interested in Campbell...if they miss out, couldn't you see them coming up with a package for Bouwmeester? Let him grow as a player with Kane and Toews? Never know...

I have a feeling that most GM's are waiting to see what happens with Brian Campbell, then their day begins. Everybody will throw in an offer (along with an offer to Hossa)...if it works, sweet. If not, what's left?!?