I really liked what eaves brought to the table last year. I think he is a solid player on the third or fourth line, especially with helm and draper, and really became an above average penalty killer. This will be good for the red wings.
have only 14 players signed through 2010-11? Is that a result of overspending or what?
Yes. See exhibit A: The Marian Hossa 12 year contract.
Actually, see Exhibit 1 - Brian Campbell contract. That Campbell deal is much higher than Hossa plus the production is way worse (not a top pairing guy). At least Hossa is playing well for them.
Between Huet and Campbell it's really not a question why they had to do this...not to mention Dave Bolland getting $3 Million per year...the even bigger issue is they went $4,000,000+ over the cap in bonuses and now those are all cap penalties for this coming season.
That seems like the Heat, who only have three players under contract, plus Bosh and Wade.
I like Eaves. He's shown some glimpses of goal scoring ability. But the thing I like about him most is he always seems to be giving 110%, especially on the PK. Him and Helm are great on the PK, they basically equal one Datsyuk.