Meszaros vs. Wideman

Sorry to ask such an a annoying question because it might be a slam dunk. But who knows? I'll ask anyway.

Given the categories of my league, who would you rather have: Meszaros or Wideman?

I really like what Wideman did last season when the team needed him. Im just trying to figure out what to expect from him this season. Im also trying to wrap my brain around what to make of Meszaros this season. Like Wideman, you would seemingly think that their defense partners (Chara & Carle) would be the PP QB's next season. Chara is obviously the QB in Boston, but what about Carle? Does Carle become the QB even though Tampa did everything to trade for and sign Meszaros? Dont forget, Tampa traded Dan Boyle in the hopes that Carle would regain his form and become their new PP quarterback. All of a sudden Meszaros becomes avaliable & now I dont know what to think? Thank you for all help with this mystery. As an incentive, karma will be dished accordingly.

That is a tough one. When Meszaros was still a Senator I would have said go with him, but now that he's in TBay I'm not sure.

They are both in similar positions. Yes Wideman got a lot of time on the PP last year with Chara but with Bergeron back from injury, he may bump Wideman from the top unit if they decide to go with 4 forwards (Savard, Ryder, Sturm, Bergeron or maybe Kessel). Wideman also has a young offesnive d-man Matt Lashoff pushing him for ice time. I doubt Julien wants Wideman in the 25-28mins/game range again. I'd expect somewhere in the mid-30s from him.

As for Meszaros, Carle will get a shot to QB the PP. As with Boston: do they go with 4 forwards on the #1 PP unit (Lecavalier, St. Louis, Prospal and Malone/Stamkos) or will Meszaros make it? Or will Meszaros be used for his all-around game, as the anchor for Carle. TBay is going to be really tough to predict because they made so many chnages chemistry will be an issue. Plus on their defense corp who is the top offensive d-man? All of Meszaros, Carle, Ranger and to a lesser degree Hutchinson are all around the same as far as offensively ability goes so its tough to say who will grab the bull by the horns and the PP QB on this team.

In short, I think Wideman would be the safe pick. Meszaros might be the man in Tbay if Carle stumbles with confidence, but is he second in line for the top PP job? Or is it Ranger or Hutchinson? Too many variables in TB.

Meszaros & Wideman handled a career defining moment exactly opposite this summer. Both were in a position to push for big dollars. Meszaros pushed the envelope hard and now we don't know exactly what to perceive. Will he transition smoothly? Where exactly does he fit in? It would be pretty silly not to think he'd get 30 points. Tampa has made a solid investment and will give him lots of opportunity. Wideman, on the other hand (great last name - it's my Mother's maiden!) chose to place himself in a comfortable situation. He got some reasonable money, but didn't jeopardize his long term picture by creating stress, thereby remaining in a position that almost assures success. Wideman is probably slightly safer at this time, but not the better player. Has made great strides in catching up with Meszaros though.