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The free agent frenzy has begun. Already it’s absurd. Before we get to that, Ryane Clowe has signed with the Devils, reaching agreement on a five-year $24.25 million contract. At 30, he becomes the latest player to cross sides in the Hudson.
In the past, it was always the Rangers who paid top dollar for former Devils. This time, it’s Lou Lamoriello taking a gamble on an injury prone forward who missed most of the postseason with a concussion. As much as I admired what Clowe brought, his health is a concern. Even if he underwent a lot of tests, it’s crazy to give him five years. Granted. New Jersey needed a replacement for David Clarkson, who’s sure to wind up elsewhere following the re-signings of Patrik Elias and Dainius Zubrus.
Assuming Clowe returns to form, he’s capable of 15-20 goals and 35-40 points. It all depends on his durability. He gets the jersey dirty. Devil fans should enjoy how hard he works. Clowe doesn’t possess the best foot speed but gives maximum effort. That rugged style is why I wouldn’t have signed him for that term. Five years is probably two years too long. But in a buyer’s market where anything goes, he is a Devil which will only heat up the Hudson rivalry.
hasan4978
Derek
Battle Of Hudson 
I agree with the two years too long comment but they were in a box and Clowe was the best Clarkson replacement out there. All in all a good day though, really liked the Ryder and Olesz signings. Sounds like we're done other than maybe trading a d-man to re-sign Zidlicky. I'll have to post something this weekend when I get a chance.9
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The Ryder move is solid. He'll help your PP and be a nice fit for Henrique. What did they give Olesz?
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One year, one million on a one-way deal. I wrote about him in my long piece – finally got to the library long enough to give the Devils FA recap the attention it deserved.
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