Clarke MacArthur is a Leaf. Yes, we can now jump and celebrate the sweet top six delight. Wait, what? Is this the move we’ve been waiting Burke to make? Well no, not in the slightest actually, but there are more than plenty of positives to take out of this signing.
First off, Clarke MacArthur is a good player. He’s not what you’d call a typical top six forward in the NHL but is enough to give us more than his share of secondary scoring playing on our third and sometimes second line. He can get really hot and score loads of goals in that period of time. His career total is not something to be in awe of, but a solid 35 points has been a points total which is in a steady rise during his NHL career. There’s nothing to suggest that this player can’t be a 45-50 point producer in this league given that he’ll probably have more ice time than during his stint in Buffalo. On top of that, he’s just 25 years old and still developing. Clarke sometimes takes a shift or two off, but that can all be fixed. What can’t be taught though, is the nose for the net. Watching this guy play I can tell you he can be a better point (goal) producer than his numbers suggest. MacArthur is a very durable player, playing 162 games in the last two seasons and has had no significant injuries during his professional hockey career. Those are not the main reasons I love this deal though.
The deal has a sweet structure and is a win win for both parties. It’s a one year deal worth $1.1 million which will probably make him try really hard for a new one next season. If he propels himself into a top six role (not impossible) he’ll earn a new deal and we’ll still get a credible top six forward for a relatively low price next year. If he “just” fulfills the expectations and quenches the need for that all important secondary scoring, well he’ll have earned his money. In the worst case scenario he falters and ends up being a total flop. He’ll at least be a cheap flop and him and the Leafs can part ways easy. However he turns out, I’m still way more comfortable with this deal than with the amount spent on Colby Armstrong.
Mislav “Xterratu” Jantoljak
7 Comments
“However he turns out, I’m still way more comfortable with this deal than with the amount spent on Colby Armstrong.”
Exactly!
Oh oh, Armstrong is the new Finger.
Armstrong will be fine along as he stays out of trouble and doesn’t try and do to much like m. Komisarek
What’s with all the harping on Colby Armstrong? He’ll be a fan favorite amongst fans by Christmas, and is a clone, kinda, of an old classic, Darcy Tucker.
I’m not doubting his play, which will bring what us what we need, I’m just questioning the price tag. I like Armstrong on the team regardless, but would like him more for less.
Welcome MacArthur, Sir! Seems to be a player with a mean streak and a bit of a scoring touch. He is on the verge of dirty with his play. Nothing wrong with that. Should be interesting to see if he takes FULL advantage of his opportunity to play as a top-six.
As far as Armstrong, I agree. The price tag was very high. But I too think he will be a fan favourite. Out of all the new players on this team I am most excited to see him play. Basically because his style of play is what I look for in a game. Hits, puck battles , the odd scrap etc. Armstrong’s price tag will be forgotten due to his play.
Come on Sept 21st! 7 Games in 9 nights!
When will the nhl11 tourny be?