He can certainly compete for a third- or fourth-line job. If he doesn't make it, we know what he's capable of. He can be an effective everyday player in the NHL.

Our guys think there are at least two guys in there (who could have an impact next year).

Anytime you get hit in the head with a stick, (a concussion) is one concern. Generally you wait 24 hours and see how they are. The team had a day off (yesterday). I think we'll know more (today). As far as I know he did not go in for any tests. He had a conversation with (trainer)Don Del Negro that he felt OK, and Donny said he'd just see him (this) morning.

Obviously it's been a difficult day. I've worked with Mike for a long time. He's a good friend of mine. I spoke with him. This is a job I've always wanted and dreamed of having, but under these circumstances, it isn't how I would have drawn it up.

He's a guy that, over the years, our scouts have liked a lot. He's been in our organization at the minor league level and his development's improved every year. He's somebody that can compete for a job out of training camp or be a good call-up for us. He's a big guy that can move around and add a little bit of toughness.

Before, they had a hard time becoming a free agent. At the end of their college career, they either signed with you or became defected players, unless they wanted to sit out a full year.