The OFFICIAL 2009-10 NHL Regular Season Thread

[chrisj]

Uh-oh. The Canes are in serious jeopardy of falling out of last place and reducing their odds of getting Taylor Hall. Third win in a row tonight in beating Toronto 4-2. Did it in under 20 shots, no less. Not sure what's up with the shooting, but the team has been struggling mightily to get any shots on goal the last couple of weeks, so this three-game streak is somewhat bizarre all things considered.

The Oilers are doing their best to help them out too. 5-3 loss to Nashville tonight. I think they have 1 win in their last 14 games now...

I don't think they'd draft Hall anyways - I would imagine the Canes would go for Tyler Segin, since he players for the OHL team they own (and therefore can control his development...)

[johnnyshaka]

I'm sure the Oilers would jump all over the opportunity to draft Hall or Seguin but I'm guessing we won't have to worry about that because the way things have gone this season we'll likely end up with the 3rd pick overall.

This is my last post in this thread until the title is changed to "The OFFICIAL 2009-10 NHL Off-Season Thread".

[Galaxy]

Looking forward to the Sabres start a 7-game, 14 day road trip tomorrow (coast-to-coast). Atlanta, NY Islanders, Phoenix, Anaheim, LA, San Jose, and Vancouver.

[Logan]

"Hockey Operations did not have a definitive replay that showed the puck in the net - and weren't aware that one existed - until after they made their ruling," said John Dellapina, another NHL spokesman. "Once the puck dropped, their ruling became permanent.

This is good evidence of how I haven't been following hockey enough this year: Dellapina used to be a Rangers beat writer and I had no idea he left the Daily News.

[Chief Rum]

Went to the Ducks-Bruins game tonight. Very exciting and fun game to watch. Hiller made some amazing shots (and one of the goals he allowed was pretty much impossible to stop; late and close inadvertent pass deflection type).

The Ducks keep winning. Hopefully they keep it up. Huge game Thursday night on the "road" at Staple Center against the Kings--currently in the 8th playoff spot.

[Chief Rum]

Well, sonofab...

I knew Teemu went down to a shot to the face, and was worried, but I figured his face just got messed up, get him to a dentist, make sure he doesn't have a concussion and get him back going again.

Unfortunately, he actually broke his jaw and will be out 4-6 weeks. :(

We just got him back, too, last Saturday. Now I am wondering if he will be able to play in the Olympics. Man, he has been waiting so long for that...

Get better, Teemu.

[Galaxy]

The crowd (or lack of one) in Atlanta are just brutal to see and hear on TV.

And how many uniforms does Atlanta have?

[bhlloy]

Well, sonofab...

I knew Teemu went down to a shot to the face, and was worried, but I figured his face just got messed up, get him to a dentist, make sure he doesn't have a concussion and get him back going again.

Unfortunately, he actually broke his jaw and will be out 4-6 weeks. :(

We just got him back, too, last Saturday. Now I am wondering if he will be able to play in the Olympics. Man, he has been waiting so long for that...

Get better, Teemu.

I knew from the way he was writhing around that something in his face was broken. I just hoped it wasn't anything near his eyes. Hockey players are too tough to roll around like that if it's just a couple of teeth.

[DeToxRox]

Instigating KHL Hockey Brawl Costs Russian Team -- NHL FanHouse (http://nhl.fanhouse.com/2010/01/10/instigating-hockey-brawl-costs-russian-team-four-million-rubles/)

From a few days ago, a massive KHL bench clearer that ended the game in a forfeit and cost the instigating team 4 million rubles.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Only in the NHL do you get this kind of stuff-

Penguins Sign Pechurski to One-Game Try Out - Pittsburgh Penguins - News (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=513857&navid=DL|PIT|home)

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed goaltender Alexander Pechurski (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/player.htm?id=8474708) from Tri-City of the Western Hockey League to a one-game amateur try out, it was announced by executive vice president and general manager Ray Shero.

Pechurski, who was drafted by Pittsburgh in the fifth round (150th overall) of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, will return to Tri-City following the Penguins’ Saturday game against the Vancouver Canucks.

Pechurski, 19, has appeared in six contests for the Americans this season, posting a 4-1-1 record with a 1.84 goals-against average, .936 save percentage and two shutouts.

The Magnitogorsk, Russia native played two seasons in the Under-18 World Championships for Russia. In five contests in 2007-08, Pechurski (6-foot, 187 pounds) recorded a 4-1 mark with a 3.06 goals-against average.


Fleury broke a finger against Edmonton the other night. Brent Johnson out with an undisclosed injury. John Curry up from Wilkes-Barre...and promptly gives up 5 goals in about 1/2 a game vs the Canucks.

So, in comes Pechurski...er, should be Pechersky, as it was mentioned during the broadcast that he said in pre-game interviews (thru RW turned translator Ruslan Fedotenko, since the kid speaks zero English) that it should be spelled with a Y. Also, he wore #40 last night, which would be the number of Curry's AHL backup Brad Thiessen (Pens declined to bring Thiessen across the country for 1 game, also the Baby Pens played Friday night). Pechurski/y typically wears #70. Pens equipment guys ordered 2 #70 jerseys for overnight delivery (I am guessing something like NHLshop.com ?) but those got held up in customs. Also, he had to use MAF's pads, the one's he uses in the WHL are considered illegal for NHL play.

He gave up 1 goal in about 30 mins of work...and gets named #3 star of the game. Good shit.

[bhlloy]

That's a great story. I was looking at the Pens box score last night and wondering who the hell either of those 2 goalies were.

Those are some pretty good numbers in juniors and obviously he did well last night. Sounds like they might want to keep him up over Curry and he might have just turned himself into a decent prospect for the future.

[Neuqua]

Blackhawks and Red Wings were fun to watch today. Go Blackhawks.

[Sublime 2]

That's a great story. I was looking at the Pens box score last night and wondering who the hell either of those 2 goalies were.

Those are some pretty good numbers in juniors and obviously he did well last night. Sounds like they might want to keep him up over Curry and he might have just turned himself into a decent prospect for the future.

I loved Johnny Curry @ BU, but never thought his game would translate to success in the NHL. Unfortunate, he's an awesome guy.

[DeToxRox]

Interesting story today how the Pistons and Red Wings may build a new downtown stadium to share:

Red Wings, Pistons could build, share new downtown arena
Chris McCosky / The Detroit News

Detroit -- It is possible, perhaps even likely, that within this decade the Red Wings and Pistons will partner to build and share a sports arena in downtown Detroit, sources told The Detroit News.

Mike and Marian Ilitch, owners of the Red Wings, have not renewed their lease at Joe Louis Arena beyond this season, and face more than $10 million in structural repair at the dilapidated arena this summer if the team is to play there next season.

Going back to the Joe, it seems, is a last resort. So the Ilitches have been looking for a temporary home while they sort out, if, when, where and how they might build a new arena in downtown Detroit.

Advertisement

The Wings and Palace Sports and Entertainment, overseers of The Palace, have been working on a lease agreement for over a year. The Ilitches toured The Palace in December 2008. The Palace submitted a five-year lease offer to the Ilitches, who made a counteroffer -- presumably for fewer years.

The Palace is still sitting on that counteroffer.

It might make more sense for the Wings to work a lease deal with Ford Field. If the Wings rented Ford Field, the Ilitches could keep all the ancillary revenue from their games in the city. However, there has not been talk between the parties to discuss that option.

Still, to move the Red Wings to North Oakland County could be risky. The core fan base is still Metro Detroit and Downriver. The Wings would rope in more corporate money by moving to The Palace, but would lose the Hockeytown atmosphere.

In the meantime, Pistons owner Karen Davidson seriously is considering selling the Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment. She already has had a conversation with NBA commissioner David Stern on the process and protocol for attracting potential buyers. Once she sells, there would be nothing keeping the Pistons tethered to The Palace.

There also has been a lot of chatter about the Ilitches making an offer to buy the Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment. They may have thought about it, but according to sources, Mike Ilitch is not a fan of the NBA. While he might be interested in The Palace, he has no interest in buying the Pistons.

So, in the end, it makes sense for the Pistons and Wings to partner for two critical reasons:

• In addition to the Wings needing a new home, the long-term plan at Palace Sports and Entertainment has been to build a new arena before 2020.

• With both organizations needing arenas in this economically-bereft region, it's hard to imagine either being able to raise the money alone any time soon.

Moving the Pistons back downtown -- something that has been debated for years and always rejected by the late Bill Davidson -- would create a huge buzz.

And The Palace still would be viable as a concert and entertainment venue.

[Chief Rum]

Only in the NHL do you get this kind of stuff-

Penguins Sign Pechurski to One-Game Try Out - Pittsburgh Penguins - News (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=513857&navid=DL|PIT|home)



Fleury broke a finger against Edmonton the other night. Brent Johnson out with an undisclosed injury. John Curry up from Wilkes-Barre...and promptly gives up 5 goals in about 1/2 a game vs the Canucks.

So, in comes Pechurski...er, should be Pechersky, as it was mentioned during the broadcast that he said in pre-game interviews (thru RW turned translator Ruslan Fedotenko, since the kid speaks zero English) that it should be spelled with a Y. Also, he wore #40 last night, which would be the number of Curry's AHL backup Brad Thiessen (Pens declined to bring Thiessen across the country for 1 game, also the Baby Pens played Friday night). Pechurski/y typically wears #70. Pens equipment guys ordered 2 #70 jerseys for overnight delivery (I am guessing something like NHLshop.com ?) but those got held up in customs. Also, he had to use MAF's pads, the one's he uses in the WHL are considered illegal for NHL play.

He gave up 1 goal in about 30 mins of work...and gets named #3 star of the game. Good shit.

Wait, so he signed a "one game amateur tryout" contract, but he played in an NHL game? That confuses me.

Still, good story.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Wait, so he signed a "one game amateur tryout" contract, but he played in an NHL game? That confuses me.

Still, good story.
From what I've read, he didn't get paid. If that's true, that sounds amateur to me.

[Chief Rum]

From what I've read, he didn't get paid. If that's true, that sounds amateur to me.

Yeah, but how is that legal, to play in the freakin' NHL on a tryout contract? Legal with respect to the CBA, I mean, and the league min pay rules and what not (obviously, there is no law against an amateur contract).

[Pumpy Tudors]

Yeah, but how is that legal, to play in the freakin' NHL on a tryout contract? Legal with respect to the CBA, I mean, and the league min pay rules and what not (obviously, there is no law against an amateur contract).
I don't know the CBA at all, but there's got to be some type of concession for an emergency goaltender. Now, I realize the ECHL is a different league, but I've attended ECHL games where the starting goalie was signed off the street the same afternoon because of an emergency.

Sorry, I might not even be addressing your point. I guess I just don't understand what's so strange about the situation.

[Chief Rum]

I don't know the CBA at all, but there's got to be some type of concession for an emergency goaltender. Now, I realize the ECHL is a different league, but I've attended ECHL games where the starting goalie was signed off the street the same afternoon because of an emergency.

Sorry, I might not even be addressing your point. I guess I just don't understand what's so strange about the situation.

But they were paid, ya know? Getting an emergency goalie is definitely something we're all familiar with. But sticking an amateur in there, in a game in the highest professional league in the world and not paying him? That's not how this stuff normally works. I have only heard that practice in soccer, and even then, such players aren't allowed to play in games that count, just exhibitions.

So since I have never seen this before, I am curious under exactly what sort of situation this is here. Even that locker room attendant or whatever that served as the Caps backup goalies for a game a couple years ago was at least getting paid (if not as a backup goalie, certainly as a locker room attendant).

[DeToxRox]

Justin Abdelkader actually did this for the Wings:

From Wiki -

On April 3, 2008, Abdelkader signed a one-game amateur tryout with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League and was to play that night against the Columbus Blue Jackets. In doing so, he forfeited his college eligibility for the 2008–09 season. The following day, Abdelkader signed a three-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings.[1]

Also, if this kid was in the WHL, he gets paid so he doesn't have amateur status anyway.

[DeToxRox]

Dola,

What I meant to say is people in the WHL lose amateur status as far as college goes as they are paid to play. It's not a lot but they do get paid. That said, I believe the rule is you can play 8 or 9 NHL games without losing Junior status.

[Chief Rum]

Justin Abdelkader actually did this for the Wings:

From Wiki -

On April 3, 2008, Abdelkader signed a one-game amateur tryout with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League and was to play that night against the Columbus Blue Jackets. In doing so, he forfeited his college eligibility for the 2008–09 season. The following day, Abdelkader signed a three-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings.[1]

Also, if this kid was in the WHL, he gets paid so he doesn't have amateur status anyway.

My confusion is not about Pechersky's status as an amateur. It's about the type of contract and him being allowed to play in a regular season NHL game on it.

I am suspecting we're lacking some information here. We may be assuming that "amateur" means "he doesn't get paid", when it actually means something else, some special type of one-game exemption the NHL allows in emergency situations, where the player is paid the league minimum for one game. The "amateur" could simply be a reference to the player in question not being a past NHL professional or attached to any other NHL team as a prospect.

[Pumpy Tudors]

But they were paid, ya know? Getting an emergency goalie is definitely something we're all familiar with. But sticking an amateur in there, in a game in the highest professional league in the world and not paying him? That's not how this stuff normally works. I have only heard that practice in soccer, and even then, such players aren't allowed to play in games that count, just exhibitions.

So since I have never seen this before, I am curious under exactly what sort of situation this is here. Even that locker room attendant or whatever that served as the Caps backup goalies for a game a couple years ago was at least getting paid (if not as a backup goalie, certainly as a locker room attendant).
OK, I just looked it up. Exhibit 17 of the CBA is a one-day amateur tryout contract. Its sole purpose is to allow a player to suit up as an NHL player for one day without compensation.

[DeToxRox]

Also, in the case of Abby, they signed him to that amateur deal for one game when we were up against the cap and needed a player (it was near the end of the season and they didn't want to rush back guys who were healing for the playoffs)

Had he signed a deal it would have put us over the cap, but the amateur deal stopped that. He had just finished his season with MSU and was going to sign regardless, so they just used a loophole to get him in under the cap for a game.

[Chief Rum]

OK, I just looked it up. Exhibit 17 of the CBA is a one-day amateur tryout contract. Its sole purpose is to allow a player to suit up as an NHL player for one day without compensation.

Huh...well, that's the first I have ever heard of that being allowed by any pro league. Thanks for looking that up, Pumpy.

[DeToxRox]

My confusion is not about Pechersky's status as an amateur. It's about the type of contract and him being allowed to play in a regular season NHL game on it.

I am suspecting we're lacking some information here. We may be assuming that "amateur" means "he doesn't get paid", when it actually means something else, some special type of one-game exemption the NHL allows in emergency situations, where the player is paid the league minimum for one game. The "amateur" could simply be a reference to the player in question not being a past NHL professional or attached to any other NHL team as a prospect.

Yeah they do not get paid for it. It's just a way to get around the cap for a game.

[Pumpy Tudors]

In any case, Pechersky is attached to the Penguins because they drafted him. He hasn't signed an NHL entry-level contract yet, but Pittsburgh has his NHL rights. I don't think any other NHL team could sign him to a tryout agreement.

[Chief Rum]

In any case, Pechersky is attached to the Penguins because they drafted him. He hasn't signed an NHL entry-level contract yet, but Pittsburgh has his NHL rights. I don't think any other NHL team could sign him to a tryout agreement.

Yeah, I didn't know that about Pechersky, but assumed it, based on DeTox's example with Abdelkader, since Abdelkader was an unsigned Wings prospect at the time.

[Logan]

A heads up for any gamblers out there: I'm heading to the Rangers-Canadiens game in a bit. The last 7 games I've been to, the Rangers have lost. Hammer the Habs and give me a cut.

[Suburban Rhythm]

That's a great story. I was looking at the Pens box score last night and wondering who the hell either of those 2 goalies were.

Those are some pretty good numbers in juniors and obviously he did well last night. Sounds like they might want to keep him up over Curry and he might have just turned himself into a decent prospect for the future.

To keep him up, they would need to sign him to a longer term deal. And, Curry won't be up much longer either. Johnson is ready to come off IR, and Fleury probably could have played- he broke his finger in the Calgary game, still started the Edmonton game, finishing and winning both of those.

Curry was seen as pretty much being handed the backup job in the late summer, until Johnson took a bargain deal ($550K) to backup Fleury, and has been really good.


Wait, so he signed a "one game amateur tryout" contract, but he played in an NHL game? That confuses me.

Still, good story.

But they were paid, ya know? Getting an emergency goalie is definitely something we're all familiar with. But sticking an amateur in there, in a game in the highest professional league in the world and not paying him? That's not how this stuff normally works. I have only heard that practice in soccer, and even then, such players aren't allowed to play in games that count, just exhibitions.

So since I have never seen this before, I am curious under exactly what sort of situation this is here. Even that locker room attendant or whatever that served as the Caps backup goalies for a game a couple years ago was at least getting paid (if not as a backup goalie, certainly as a locker room attendant).

I don't think it's any different than a guy getting a try-out deal in September. Yes, those are preseason games, but they aren't being paid while playing an NHL game.

Also happened, strangely enough, for Vancouver againt Pittsburgh in 2003. Chris Levesque was playing for the Univ of BC in 2003 at the time, and a similar situation where Canucks were at home, but the Manitoba Moose were on the east coast. Dan Cloutier was injured, Johan Hedberg was to start, but there was no backup. Levesque shows up, sits on the bench for 60 mins, and gets to tell his grandchildren a great story.

In Levesque's case, he couldn't accept payment and still be eligible at UBC. Pechursky would be able to accept payment, but I guess all try-out deals are structured the same way.

One great point of the game, about 7 mins left, Darcy Hordichuk runs over Pechursky. Eric Godard ragdolls Hordichuk off Pechursky and just unloads to the back of Hordichuks head while he's done on the ice. Yeah, he got tossed, PP for Vancouver (game long since decided). But Godard won over a bunch of guys in that locker room and in Pittsburgh in general. If he'll do that for a guy who chances are he'll never play another shift with, he'll sure as hell protect Crosby/Malkin.

[Pumpy Tudors]

One great point of the game, about 7 mins left, Darcy Hordichuk runs over Pechursky. Eric Godard ragdolls Hordichuk off Pechursky and just unloads to the back of Hordichuks head while he's done on the ice. Yeah, he got tossed, PP for Vancouver (game long since decided). But Godard won over a bunch of guys in that locker room and in Pittsburgh in general. If he'll do that for a guy who chances are he'll never play another shift with, he'll sure as hell protect Crosby/Malkin.
I think Godard just wanted to punch somebody. He shoved Hordichuk into Pechersky. Still, I 100% agree with your last sentence.

[Suburban Rhythm]

In any case, Pechersky is attached to the Penguins because they drafted him. He hasn't signed an NHL entry-level contract yet, but Pittsburgh has his NHL rights. I don't think any other NHL team could sign him to a tryout agreement.

This

In the example above, the Levesque guy was undrafted and playing in college, free to sign with any team.

Also of note, he was playing for the same team (Magnitogorsk) in Russia than Malkin played for, prior to coming to NA to play.

Makes me wonder why Fedotenko translated and not Malkin....lazy Russian. :D

[DeToxRox]

Absurd shootout goal from Dats today:

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[Wolfpack]

That and the Bertuzzi effort on the third shot were tremendous plays. While I'm no fan of the Wings, it's unfortunate those two efforts were spoiled in the SO loss.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Tonight is an example of why the league still has a long way to go.

Kobe vs LeBron is on ESPN tonight.

Crosby vs Ovechkin is on...well, for me, FSN Pittsburgh, and I think maybe NHL Network nationally.

Can't wait though. Malkin with the HT vs the Isles the other night (hopefully his slump buster) and Sid with a ridiculous 6 point game.

[Galaxy]

Sabres come off a wild game against the Ducks by playing the Kings tonight and continue its west coast swing.

[Logan]

After scoring once over the prior 10 periods, the Rangers have scored 14 goals over the next 5.

[Dr. Sak]

After scoring once over the prior 10 periods, the Rangers have scored 14 goals over the next 8.

Fixed ;)

[EagleFan]

It was fun seeing Hartnell make VERY quick work of Avery. :D

[Logan]

Haha. At least I enjoyed it while it lasted.

[DeToxRox]

Big shootout win for the Wings tonight. So glad we picked up Drew Miller off waivers. He is earning himself a contract with the team, I hope Kenny pulls the trigger on it.

[Galaxy]

Big shootout win for the Wings tonight. So glad we picked up Drew Miller off waivers. He is earning himself a contract with the team, I hope Kenny pulls the trigger on it.

Since you can't have Ryan, you could at least have his brother. :)


BTW, the Kings announcers suck. Talk about boring.

[DeToxRox]

Fuck LA Kings GM Dean Lombardi. He comes out with this direct assault on Michigan coach Red Berenson (Keep in mind Lombardi is from Boston):

During a recent interview, Kings President/General Manager Dean Lombardi explained that Johnson is learning his craft…belatedly.

“This guy has never had any coaching [at the University of Michigan],” Lombardi said. “Jack just did what he wanted.”

“Michigan is the worst.” Lombardi added. “For hockey people, if you’ve got a choice between a kid—all things being equal—one’s going to Michigan and one’s going to Boston University, you all want your player [going to Boston University]. Michigan’s players—[head coach] Red [Berenson] doesn’t coach. It’s ‘do what you want.’ He gets the best players in the country.”

During his two seasons at the University of Michigan, Johnson played as a rover, rather than as a defenseman, even though that was his official position.


Well, Jack Johnson fired back today:

"I'm a Michigan man. I'm very proud of it. I wouldn't want to have it any other way," Johnson said after the Kings' 4-3 shootout victory over the Buffalo Sabres at Staples Center.

"Michigan has produced more NHL players than any other school. Even the U.S. development program, people rip that and they just don't know anything about it and don't know what they're talking about."

Berenson, Johnson said, "is one of the finest coaches and men that I've met. For my general manager to rip me as a person and criticize me as a person and as a player and call me an awful hockey player is irresponsible and unprofessional."


Lombardi is a fucking mockery.

[RomaGoth]

Fuck LA Kings GM Dean Lombardi. He comes out with this direct assault on Michigan coach Red Berenson (Keep in mind Lombardi is from Boston):



Well, Jack Johnson fired back today:



Lombardi is a fucking mockery.

Does this mean that Johnson is on his way out of LA? I don't see how you can say this shit about a guy and keep him on your team.

I would also expect Berenson to not say a word, as is his style. Let Lombardi look like the asshat that he is....

[Dr. Sak]

Video: John Tortorella vs Larry Brooks – Part 2 | 5-hole.com (http://5-hole.com/2010/01/21/john-tortorella-vs-larry-brooks-part-2/)

[Honolulu_Blue]

Video: John Tortorella vs Larry Brooks – Part 2 | 5-hole.com (http://5-hole.com/2010/01/21/john-tortorella-vs-larry-brooks-part-2/)

I saw this last night. Tortorella makes me laugh. And Larry Brooks is really a homely man.

[Maple Leafs]

I love the look Brooks shoots some other reporter who laughs at him.

[Logan]

Redden getting in that fight was probably the first and last time he's ever been cheered in the Garden.

[RomaGoth]

Tortorella makes me laugh. And Larry Brooks is really a homely man.

This.

[JPhillips]

Well this is surprising. Without checking can you guess who number four is?

the top-five players in the League in terms of goals scored per sixty minutes of five-on-five time (minimum 30 games played):

1. Alex Ovechkin (2.06)
2. Sidney Crosby (1.89)
3. Ilya Kovalchuk (1.75)
4. ????
5. Patrick Marleau (1.71)

[Galaxy]

Well this is surprising. Without checking can you guess who number four is?

Gaborik?

[Suburban Rhythm]

I think Gaborik is out, only because it's 5-on-5 and I think a bunch of his goals have come on the PP.

So I have to think someone who has a good number of goals this year and doesn't see alot of PP time.

I am going Alex Burrows.

[JPhillips]

I'll give one more guess and a hint. He's under twenty-five and not considered a star, but he plays for a Cup contender.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Just curious if these are coming from BehindTheNet?

I've checked some stuff out on there before, pretty interesting.

Not knowing who the guy is yet (don't want to cheat), is he a third liner playing out of his mind right now?

[samifan24]

I went to my first Bruins game this afternoon and man, it was a snoozer. Ottawa won 2-1 behind goals from Alfredsson and Spezza. It was Spezza's first game back following six weeks on the shelf. Both teams had goals disallowed in the 2nd period. The Boston media reported that both refs told Mark Recchi his goal was good but that Toronto vetoed the good goal call. If true that seems strange to me. I would think Toronto would defer to the judgment of the on-ice officials in nearly all instances.

[JPhillips]

Just curious if these are coming from BehindTheNet?

I've checked some stuff out on there before, pretty interesting.

Not knowing who the guy is yet (don't want to cheat), is he a third liner playing out of his mind right now?

I got the info from a team blog on Sports Blog Nation.

As for the player, he's third line now, but has been second line and probably has a future as a second line RW. His point total is under thirty, but give his ice time, he's done well.

[samifan24]

Well this is surprising. Without checking can you guess who number four is?

Scottie Upshall?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pretty sure I got the guy...I went to behindthenet.ca

And I will say I am a little surprised by it. I know this guy has been scoring lately, and he's finally overcome injuries and a (fairly) long journey to the NHL.

[JPhillips]

Eric Fehr - Washington

His points total isn't all that impressive 14/12/26, but he has very little PP time and has made the most of his third line time. I wouldn't argue he's one of the top five scorers, but as Suburban said, he's finally injury free and scoring.

At least Caps fans may finally be able to stop saying, "We could have had Getzlaf."

[Suburban Rhythm]

Chomp-gate, part II

Arron Asham says Matt Cooke bit him in a scrum that occurred in the 3rd period of today's Pens-Flyers

Asham: Matt Cooke bit me! | Flyer Files (http://blogs.courierpostonline.com/flyers/2010/01/24/asham-matt-cooke-bit-me/)

Flyers right wing Arron Asham has accused Penguins forward Matt Cooke of biting him during a third period scrum. Asham told a small group of reporters following the Flyers’ 2-1 loss to the Penguins that while he was pulling Cooke off teammate Scott Hartnell, Cooke bit his finger.
Here is Asham’s account:

There was a scrum, I grabbed him. There were two guys on Harts and my glove got tangled in his mouth and he bit me, so I lost it.

It’s not bad, but he’s a gutless guy. I have no respect for him at all. I lined up against him and asked him to fight and he didn’t want to. If you go and bite someone … I just have no use for him.

He does his job well. He’s an agitator. He’s garbage to me and I have no respect for him at all.

[Dr. Sak]

I'm sure the "intelligent" Pens fans won't be outraged with this (unlike they were with Hartnell). Just like they didn't think it was a big deal that the FSN guy withheld the footage of the goal. (I'm not referring to you SR)

On the game...you can't go 1 for 8 on the pp and expect to win. Gagne cost the Flyers the game plain and simple. That was one of the worst games I've ever seen him play.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Johnson played really well, the one beating him sort of flukey. After the first period, the Flyers really never had prime scoring chances either. I think the 2nd period shots were something like 14-5.

And the hypocrisy will go both ways. Remember with Letang/Hartnell, it was "don't put your fingers in another person's mouth!!" but, I am sure this time, Cooke will have grabbed Asham's hand and stuffed his fingers into his mouth just so he could bite him.

Besides, I am calling bullshit. Cooke doesn't have even teeth to bite him.

Typically, the thread at HF is classic. Pens fans doing exactly as you said, Flyers fans saying Cooke doesn't respect "the code". Rinse. Repeat.

[samifan24]

Bruins looking good these days.

[Pyser]

After scoring once over the prior 10 periods, the Rangers have scored 14 goals over the next 11.

fixed again :)

[Pumpy Tudors]

I know it's been a few days, but whenever I see the Carcillo-Gaborik fight, all I can think is... wait for it...

Gabs on the ground
Gabs on the ground
Looking like a fool with your Gabs on the ground

I'll be here all week, folks!

[Logan]

Someone delete this thread.

[bhlloy]

At the Rangers - Pens game tonight. Amazed at how small MSG is, there isn't a bad seat in the place. I figured it would be as big as Staples.

[Logan]

What section?

[Honolulu_Blue]

I know it's been a few days, but whenever I see the Carcillo-Gaborik fight, all I can think is... wait for it...

Gabs on the ground
Gabs on the ground
Looking like a fool with your Gabs on the ground

I'll be here all week, folks!

This is sweet. More, please.

[Suburban Rhythm]

stupid Versus (and Direct TV) I am listening to the radio feed of Pens-Rangers and have it pulled up on CBS Gamecenter to watch stats.

Pretty funny, Chris Conner, called up from WBS today to replace Billy Guerin, gets the start next to Crosby...and scores about 2 mins into the game.

CBS had the assists posted to Fleury and Crosby...and the following shots from Godard and Kennedy posted...but nothing about the goal. It appeared as:

PIT: GOAL (); Assists Crosby, Fleury

I guess they weren't prepared with a link and picture for Chris Conner.
Finally after refreshing 4 times, and 4 mins of gametime later, it's updated.

[bhlloy]

Gaborik?

What section?


343

[bhlloy]

And I actually take the bit about not being a bad seat in the house back. Once the arena fills up we can't see one corner of the ice at all, especially with all the vendors and fans walking in front of us. Still nice to be so close to the action

[Dr. Sak]

Pretty funny, Chris Conner, called up from WBS today to replace Billy Guerin, gets the start next to Crosby...and scores about 2 mins into the game.


Did Guerin get arrested for looking like a child molester with that mustache?

[Dr. Sak]

Also it is nice to see that John Stevens is as "animated" as a color guy as he was a head coach.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Did Guerin get arrested for looking like a child molester with that mustache?

PG says unspecified injury, but I don't buy that at all.

Carcillo held him up yesterday for moustache tips, and he missed the flight to NY.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola

This headline must have been written by someone at FOFC

Penguins' Cooke says biting accusation has no teeth (http://www.postgazette.com/pg/10025/1030971-100.stm)

[Galaxy]

What a horrible call (or calls). Jeez.

[Galaxy]

Kerry Frazier sucks. Horrible, horrible!

[Chief Rum]

And I actually take the bit about not being a bad seat in the house back. Once the arena fills up we can't see one corner of the ice at all, especially with all the vendors and fans walking in front of us. Still nice to be so close to the action

I wish I had taken my trip to New York in a month where I could have caught a hockey and basketball game at MSG. Not that August was so bad; I got to check out Yankee Stadium (old). Still... maybe next time.

[DeToxRox]

Going to the Wings/Coyotes game tonight. Very excited. Why you might ask? Well of course because it's dollar dog night.

The simple things.

Oh plus Kronner is back.

[Maple Leafs]

Kerry Frazier sucks. Horrible, horrible!
Welcome to the club.

[Dr. Sak]

Is this his last year though? I know it is for Bill McCreary.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Going to the Wings/Coyotes game tonight. Very excited. Why you might ask? Well of course because it's dollar dog night.

The simple things.

Oh plus Kronner is back.
I'll look for you on the Versus TV coverage. I take it you'll be the guy with a dozen wieners stuck in your mouth.

At least that's who I'd be looking for if I was trying to find you on the street.

[DeToxRox]

I'll look for you on the Versus TV coverage. I take it you'll be the guy with a dozen wieners stuck in your mouth.

At least that's who I'd be looking for if I was trying to find you on the street.

On the streets its all brawts so I don't think I would give you a second glance.

[bbor]

I take it you'll be the guy with a dozen wieners stuck in your mouth.

At least that's who I'd be looking for if I was trying to find you on the internet.


Fixed!

[Dr. Sak]

At least they aren't beating up cabbies...

Blackhawks limo pics prove athletes like women - Red Light District (http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/blackhawks-red-light-district/2010/01/blackhawks-limo-pictures-prove-athletes-like-women.html)

[Honolulu_Blue]

At least they aren't beating up cabbies...

Blackhawks limo pics prove athletes like women - Red Light District (http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/blackhawks-red-light-district/2010/01/blackhawks-limo-pictures-prove-athletes-like-women.html)

Hrmm, I must say that I am not terribly impressed with your choice of limo companions, Mssrs. Versteeg, Madden and Kane.

[Pumpy Tudors]

At least they aren't beating up cabbies...

Blackhawks limo pics prove athletes like women - Red Light District (http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/blackhawks-red-light-district/2010/01/blackhawks-limo-pictures-prove-athletes-like-women.html)
Jeez, the chick in the red plaid shirt looks like Jay Pandolfo. John Madden probably jumped into the limo because he thought his old PK unit was out.

[Dr. Sak]

Jeez, the chick in the red plaid shirt looks like Colin White. John Madden probably jumped into the limo because he thought his old PK unit was out.

Fixed

[Pumpy Tudors]

Fixed
Let's not be harsh to the poor girl.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Jeez, the chick in the red plaid shirt looks like Jay Pandolfo. John Madden probably jumped into the limo because he thought his old PK unit was out.


You raise a good point. Based on this picture, I think the blonde in the black dress looks a little more like Pandolfo. Though, both women share the resemblence.

http://media.nj.com/devils_main/photo/pandojpg-c5407de44143b960_large.jpg

[MikeVic]

The skinny blond girl can be cute, but come on they can do better than the bigger blond girl! Who are these hockey players, cast members of Jersey Shore?

[Fidatelo]

I'd say they were slump busting but that wouldn't make sense because they don't play for the Maple Leafs.

[MikeVic]

I'd say they were slump busting but that wouldn't make sense because they don't play for the Maple Leafs.

Or the Oilers. :(

[Dr. Sak]

Facebook | Bob Gainey (http://www.mauvaisoeil.com/extras/gainey/en/index.html)

[Wolfpack]

Hurricanes are trying really hard to not draft first now as they blow out the Rangers 5-1, this on the heels of routing the Bruins 5-1 on Sunday. They're now three clear of Edmonton and are now three back of Toronto. I doubt they've got a 25-5-0 finishing kick in them (which would eek them into the periphery of the playoff picture at 91 points), but they seem determined to wreck some seasons if nothing else. Also doesn't hurt to drive up the trade value of some players (Cullen, Whitney) so we can get more in return at the deadline.

[Dr. Sak]

Since Logan's "jinx" the Rangers have lost 4 in a row by a combined score of 17-3

[Galaxy]

The skinny blond girl can be cute, but come on they can do better than the bigger blond girl! Who are these hockey players, cast members of Jersey Shore?

I hope the limo driver is okay with Kane in the vehicle.

Or you could be like Zetterberg and Datsyuk: hxxp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9JiV3d74Rk&feature=popular

[Dr. Sak]

I hope the limo driver is okay with Kane in the vehicle.

Or you could be like Zetterberg and Datsyuk: hxxp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9JiV3d74Rk&feature=popular

At least the Blackhawks paid their bill...unlike some Oilers players...

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/NHL/Edmonton/2010/01/28/12645406-qmi.html

[Maple Leafs]

Facebook | Bob Gainey (http://www.mauvaisoeil.com/extras/gainey/en/index.html)
Wish I'd thought of that.

[Dr. Sak]

Wish I'd thought of that.

Actually that's why I posted it...a nice rip off of what you did last year.

[Galaxy]

Nice game by Atlanta tonight. Moving up to 6th in standings. I just don't see how they can trade Kovalchuk (which I don't understand the contract situation, doesn't he want to stay in Atlanta?) now.

[chrisj]

Oilers record in the last 20 games: 1-17-2, 4 points.

If you prorated that out to a full 82 game season - that gives them 16 points. That would break the record for fewest points in a season, which is currently held by the 74/75 Washington Capitals with 21 points.

(of course, there were 2 fewer games back then, and no loser points...)

[Galaxy]

I hate all the talk of making rule changes in the NHL. Leave the game alone. If you want, make these three changes:

1) Make each game worth 3 points. A win in regulation or overtime is worth 3 points (and 0 for a loss) and a SO is worth 2 pts. for a win and 1 for loss.

2) Eliminate the instigator penalty.

3) If you get a penalty in the overtime, you should play that penalty out before you get to the SO.

[Galaxy]

Ottawa with 8 straight wins and Boston loses the last 6 straight games including tonight's game.

[JPhillips]

Boy the Caps look good over the last ten games. I hope they can find this form come playoffs.

[Galaxy]

Boy the Caps look good over the last ten games. I hope they can find this form come playoffs.

I don't. :)

[Fidatelo]

I hate all the talk of making rule changes in the NHL. Leave the game alone. If you want, make these three changes:

1) Make each game worth 3 points. A win in regulation or overtime is worth 3 points (and 0 for a loss) and a SO is worth 2 pts. for a win and 1 for loss.

2) Eliminate the instigator penalty.

3) If you get a penalty in the overtime, you should play that penalty out before you get to the SO.

Who is talking about rule changes now? I (thankfully) haven't heard anything this season, but maybe I'm just not paying close enough attention?

[Galaxy]

Who is talking about rule changes now? I (thankfully) haven't heard anything this season, but maybe I'm just not paying close enough attention?

I just keep hearing about it on the local radio (Buffalo) through the local guys and interviews with both the team's managing partner and GM. Not so much about "rule changes", but saying what they would like to change and ect.

[Suburban Rhythm]

What better than HNIC....HDIC

All 3 games on NHL Network here, and then Pens-Wings tomorrow afternoon on NBC.

[Fidatelo]

I just keep hearing about it on the local radio (Buffalo) through the local guys and interviews with both the team's managing partner and GM. Not so much about "rule changes", but saying what they would like to change and ect.

Lets hope it stays to just your local radio then. If I hear "make the nets bigger" again I'm going postal. I really think hockey is currently as exciting as its ever been (for the most part).

[Dr. Sak]

What better than HNIC....HDIC

All 3 games on NHL Network here, and then Pens-Wings tomorrow afternoon on NBC.

Do the Pens get the same deal that Notre Dame gets playing all those games on NBC :p

[Galaxy]

Lets hope it stays to just your local radio then. If I hear "make the nets bigger" again I'm going postal. I really think hockey is currently as exciting as its ever been (for the most part).

Same here. Leave the game alone (expect maybe the three changes I suggested...:) ). Work on getting yourself a better national TV contract in the U.S.

I can't believe the Canucks are on a 14-game road trip. I know the Olympics are why, but jeez.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Do the Pens get the same deal that Notre Dame gets playing all those games on NBC :p

Be happy...it's the only way the Flyers will get on.

Added bonus for you, no Steigy!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola

Ducks sign Hiller to extension, 4 years $18M

[Dr. Sak]

Be happy...it's the only way the Flyers will get on.

Added bonus for you, no Steigy!

I think the Flyers/Rangers are on one of these weeks. It seems to just rotate through Pittsburgh, Philly, Detroit, Washington, and NY. But it is funny that the Pens are on 3 weeks in a row.

That is a HUGE bonus.

[Chief Rum]

Dola

Ducks sign Hiller to extension, 4 years $18M

Yup, glad to get this done. We still need to get Bobby Ryan set, though. We really need to move Jiggy out becuase of his contract, but I don't think we can get anyone to take on that contract ($6 M next year).

[Suburban Rhythm]

Mike Green gets 3 games for his flying elbow vs Florida.

Gotta say pretty surprised by this one- star player, no history, no injury on the play. Goes against every rule.

But, I have to think the Cormier-Tam incident was in mind when the suspension is handed down. Not nearly as bad as the that incident, but the intent was there as Green had his elbow up as he is skating towards Frolik.

[Galaxy]

Who would you guys vote for the award winners at this point of the season?

[Wolfpack]

Where the hell has this team been? Canes win their fourth by beating the Blackhawks, 4-2. It's true Chicago had just flown in from the west coast yesterday, but the home advantage was mitigated a bit by the weather suppressing the crowd numbers.

In the end, it was Cam Ward that made the difference. Without him, it would have been a bloody slaughter out there. Chicago was hella fast all night and Kane in particular was running rings around our guys, it seemed. However, every time they had a great chance, Ward somehow pulled a save out to rescue the situation.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Who would you guys vote for the award winners at this point of the season?

Adams Toss up between Joe Sacco and Dave Tippett. Other guys like Bylsma, Ruff, Boudreau having great years, but they were expected to. Colorado picked dead last in the West prior to the season, and Phoenix picked to finish in Winnipeg or Hamilton. Honorable Mention to Scott Gordon.

Vezina Ryan Miller. Maybe Brodeur challenges.

Hart I'll get crap for this, but going for most valuable to his team, Ryan Miller again. Caps without Ovy still top 4-6 in the East. Pens without one of Crosby or Malkin, still a playoff team. Canucks without a Sedin, still a good team, even in the tough West. San Jose without Thornton, Marleau. Chicago without one of Huet/Keith/one of like 10 forwards, same. Buffalo without Miller probably somewhere between 10-12 in the East.

Calder I figure it's Tavares' to lose. Duchene, Hedman, Del Zotto, some other guys putting up points, but Tavares has the recognition factor and most likely ends up scoring the most points too.

The two I am having the toughest time with:

Selke Because it's never really been a defensive award, I have no idea. Mike Richards, Ryan Kesler, probably still Pavel Datsyuk all have a shot I guess. I'll throw out a homer pick of Jordan Staal who is playing a shutdown role still and scoring some too.

Norris Really, no idea. Lidstrom having an off year, by his standards. Same for Chara. Dan Boyle is the main guy in SJ I guess, but isn't really matched again top lines. Same for Green in Washinton. None of the 3 guys in Calgary is having a great season. Gonchar, Pronger...meh. Doughty, Weber? Not yet. So, by default going with Duncan Keith.

oh and...

Lady Byng Sean Avery.

[Dr. Sak]

Calgary and Toronto make a deal.

Phaneuf, Sjostrom and Auley to Toronto for Hagman, Stajan, Mayers and White

[Dr. Sak]

Dola...

Giguere for Toskala and a pick is another possibility.

[DeToxRox]

Adams Toss up between Joe Sacco and Dave Tippett. Other guys like Bylsma, Ruff, Boudreau having great years, but they were expected to. Colorado picked dead last in the West prior to the season, and Phoenix picked to finish in Winnipeg or Hamilton. Honorable Mention to Scott Gordon.

Vezina Ryan Miller. Maybe Brodeur challenges.

Hart I'll get crap for this, but going for most valuable to his team, Ryan Miller again. Caps without Ovy still top 4-6 in the East. Pens without one of Crosby or Malkin, still a playoff team. Canucks without a Sedin, still a good team, even in the tough West. San Jose without Thornton, Marleau. Chicago without one of Huet/Keith/one of like 10 forwards, same. Buffalo without Miller probably somewhere between 10-12 in the East.

Calder I figure it's Tavares' to lose. Duchene, Hedman, Del Zotto, some other guys putting up points, but Tavares has the recognition factor and most likely ends up scoring the most points too.

The two I am having the toughest time with:

Selke Because it's never really been a defensive award, I have no idea. Mike Richards, Ryan Kesler, probably still Pavel Datsyuk all have a shot I guess. I'll throw out a homer pick of Jordan Staal who is playing a shutdown role still and scoring some too.

Norris Really, no idea. Lidstrom having an off year, by his standards. Same for Chara. Dan Boyle is the main guy in SJ I guess, but isn't really matched again top lines. Same for Green in Washinton. None of the 3 guys in Calgary is having a great season. Gonchar, Pronger...meh. Doughty, Weber? Not yet. So, by default going with Duncan Keith.

oh and...

Lady Byng Sean Avery.

I'll say that if the Wings get hot to end the year, Babcock will win the Jack Adams considering every injury under the sun he has had to deal with and I think again, if the Wings stay hot Jimmy Howard probably wins the Calder.

[Dr. Sak]

If the OC Register is correct the Ducks pick up Toskala + Blake for Giguere and a 1st.

Some where Maple Leafs is doing the dance of joy.

[Travis]

Souray apparently breaks his wrist in a fight with Iginla last night.

Now maybe the Oilers wouldn't have found a suitor for him, but that's 2 of the D they'd have been trying to move (along with Staios) that are now out with injuries. Here's hoping both get back into form prior to the deadline so they can still be moved, but it's just going from worse to downright brutal in Edmonton right now.

[Johnny93g]

There is no 1st involved in the Anaheim deal. It's just Giggy for Blake and Toskala

The Calgary trade reminds me of another deal made with Calgary about 18 years ago.

The Leafs give up noone that was essential to future success, for a 24 year old, who is universally seen as a probable #1 D. He obviously has fallen for Calgary to give him up, but I have a hard time believing Flames fan's will be happy with the return.

[bhlloy]

I'm pretty happy about the deal from a Ducks perspective. Giggy isn't worth the money they are going to be paying him next season - Blake's salary goes down to $3m and Toskala will be let go or resigned for a fraction of the value. Leafs overpaid on this one IMO. Can't imagine anybody else in the entire league wanting Giggy for that salary, they should have made the Ducks buy him out or put him on waivers. Dealing a semi-useful part like Blake for him is a pretty bad move.

On the other hand that's a great deal with Calgary, and I can't believe they couldn't get more for Phaneuf.

[Dr. Sak]

Well Blake's salary may go down but his cap number stays the same throughout.

[bhlloy]

Valid point but still don't care. I'll take getting anything back for a guy who we were certain we were going to have to buy out and who was just going to see less and less ice time moving forward.

[Johnny93g]

I'm pretty happy about the deal from a Ducks perspective. Giggy isn't worth the money they are going to be paying him next season - Blake's salary goes down to $3m and Toskala will be let go or resigned for a fraction of the value. Leafs overpaid on this one IMO. Can't imagine anybody else in the entire league wanting Giggy for that salary, they should have made the Ducks buy him out or put him on waivers. Dealing a semi-useful part like Blake for him is a pretty bad move.

On the other hand that's a great deal with Calgary, and I can't believe they couldn't get more for Phaneuf.

From the Leaf's perspective, finding someone willing to take Blake's salary was absurd. I can't believe anyone would want him for 2 more years. Blake's salary cap hit stays at 4 mil though. Both teams had their reason's for this trade, and I think both are happy with it

[Chief Rum]

Valid point but still don't care. I'll take getting anything back for a guy who we were certain we were going to have to buy out and who was just going to see less and less ice time moving forward.

+1. And we even got someone with a little offensive ability, which is critical, since we can't keep a top six forward healthy this season. Not that Blake is really a top six anymore, but when you're throwing out a Beleskey and a Bodie every night, getting a decent offensive player makes a big difference (Sexton doesn't count, we got lucky with him).

[Chief Rum]

BTW, hat's off to Jiggy. I wish him all the best in Toronto.

[sterlingice]

Was there some super secret trade deadline today that only Brian Burke knew about?

SI

[Dr. Sak]

Was there some super secret trade deadline today that only Brian Burke knew about?

SI

There is a roster freeze sometime before the Olympics but I don't think that's for another week or week and a half.

[Chief Rum]

A Jiggy to Toronto deal, probably with Toskala coming back, has been rumored since, oh, maybe July? My guess is there was a handshake agreement in place to do a deal if the Leafs do certain things. My guess is, whatever that was was accomplished in the Phaneuf deal, ergo triggered whatever deal they already had in place.

[Galaxy]

Adams Toss up between Joe Sacco and Dave Tippett. Other guys like Bylsma, Ruff, Boudreau having great years, but they were expected to. Colorado picked dead last in the West prior to the season, and Phoenix picked to finish in Winnipeg or Hamilton. Honorable Mention to Scott Gordon.

Vezina Ryan Miller. Maybe Brodeur challenges.

Hart I'll get crap for this, but going for most valuable to his team, Ryan Miller again. Caps without Ovy still top 4-6 in the East. Pens without one of Crosby or Malkin, still a playoff team. Canucks without a Sedin, still a good team, even in the tough West. San Jose without Thornton, Marleau. Chicago without one of Huet/Keith/one of like 10 forwards, same. Buffalo without Miller probably somewhere between 10-12 in the East.

Calder I figure it's Tavares' to lose. Duchene, Hedman, Del Zotto, some other guys putting up points, but Tavares has the recognition factor and most likely ends up scoring the most points too.

The two I am having the toughest time with:

Selke Because it's never really been a defensive award, I have no idea. Mike Richards, Ryan Kesler, probably still Pavel Datsyuk all have a shot I guess. I'll throw out a homer pick of Jordan Staal who is playing a shutdown role still and scoring some too.

Norris Really, no idea. Lidstrom having an off year, by his standards. Same for Chara. Dan Boyle is the main guy in SJ I guess, but isn't really matched again top lines. Same for Green in Washinton. None of the 3 guys in Calgary is having a great season. Gonchar, Pronger...meh. Doughty, Weber? Not yet. So, by default going with Duncan Keith.

oh and...

Lady Byng Sean Avery.

Sabres homer here...but I think Ruff deserves serious consideration for the Adams. I don't think anyone expected the Sabres to be where they are now. Maybe 7th-10th in the standings.

Miller has been a huge part to this. However, the team is certainly better in front this year. We don't have that go-to scorer (though Vanek is starting to turn it on), but the goals are being spread all around. You have to give Myers a big (no pun intended) mention for the Calder. Of course, he won't have the points total of the guys you mentioned. Hell, I think he could even contend for the Norris with it being a rather down year.

Agree on most of your choices.

[Galaxy]

There is a roster freeze sometime before the Olympics but I don't think that's for another week or week and a half.

I think it will be interesting this year in terms of trade. Having two weeks off and with teams having a much better idea of where they stand in terms of the playoffs, I think you'll see GMs working during that break looking to make moves once the freeze is lifted without panicking.

I do like Burke. He seems unafraid to make a deal.

[Dr. Sak]

While we are on the subject of rule changes...i hate the shootout but that's a debate for another day. I think that if you still have time remaining in a penalty as OT expires you should either have to play out that time (as mentioned above) or that guy in the box should be ineligible to participate in the shootout.

[Maple Leafs]

I think I like the Calgary trade.

I know I LOVE the Anaheim deal. We actually found a team to take Blake? Holy shit.

Dave Hodge said it best on TSN: if someone told you the Leafs traded Toskala and Blake, you'd say "wow, great deal" before they even told you what you got back.

[Chief Rum]

So, ML, what's the deal on Blake? Is age just getting to him? Does he have any value at all as an offensive player anymore? And do you think just getting him out of Toronto might be the move that gets him going again? Or is he just done?

[DeToxRox]

So uh, Howard was great, but christ, Crosby and Malkin in that shootout. Nothing Howie could do.

[Johnny93g]

So, ML, what's the deal on Blake? Is age just getting to him? Does he have any value at all as an offensive player anymore? And do you think just getting him out of Toronto might be the move that gets him going again? Or is he just done?

He's a 3rd line player now. He likes to get the puck, pick up some steam, and skate to the outside. One of 2 things usually happen. He usually maintains control, skates around the net, reverses back to the other side before losing the puck, or he takes a weak, bad angle shot, which doesn't go in.

He works hard, he's fast, but you can't count on him providing offense unless it's in a checking line role.

[Chief Rum]

He's a 3rd line player now. He likes to get the puck, pick up some steam, and skate to the outside. One of 2 things usually happen. He usually maintains control, skates around the net, reverses back to the other side before losing the puck, or he takes a weak, bad angle shot, which doesn't go in.

He works hard, he's fast, but you can't count on him providing offense unless it's in a checking line role.

Strangely enough, he might end up in a checking line role. The Ducks have a lot of decent to very good forwards all of a sudden (Getzy, Perry, Ryan, Lupul--when healthy, Teemu--when healthy, Koivu, Sexton--surprise of season).

Now if we could somehow find a defensman worth a damn...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Sabres homer here...but I think Ruff deserves serious consideration for the Adams. I don't think anyone expected the Sabres to be where they are now. Maybe 7th-10th in the standings.

Miller has been a huge part to this. However, the team is certainly better in front this year. We don't have that go-to scorer (though Vanek is starting to turn it on), but the goals are being spread all around. You have to give Myers a big (no pun intended) mention for the Calder. Of course, he won't have the points total of the guys you mentioned. Hell, I think he could even contend for the Norris with it being a rather down year.

Agree on most of your choices.

I only leave Ruff as a fringe vote getter because of where Phoenix and Colorado are right now.

Buffalo was seen as a, like you said, 7-10, and most likely end up 3rd.
Phoenix and Colorado were seen as #14 and 15 in the West, and could be #'s 3 and 4.

Myers has been good, but unless he has a 50+ season and Tavares is around 60, I don't see Tavares losing out.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola


Sak, not sure if you saw this

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308411

[Suburban Rhythm]

So uh, Howard was great, but christ, Crosby and Malkin in that shootout. Nothing Howie could do.

Howard was fantastic. Jordan Staal alone should have had probably 2 in the 3rd period.

[Dr. Sak]

Dola


Sak, not sure if you saw this

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308411

If that means Tollfenson never has to play again I am all for it.

[Suburban Rhythm]

If that means Tollfenson never has to play again I am all for it.

Yeah, I never watched him that much in Cbus, but he was one of the guys rumored to be brought in when Gill and Scuderi left to be a #6/7 guy.

Just wondered if getting a veteran guy means Parent might be out longer than 4-6 weeks?

[Dr. Sak]

Just wondered if getting a veteran guy means Parent might be out longer than 4-6 weeks?

Parent is out for awhile...he just had back surgery.

[MikeVic]

I guess I don't follow the NHL a ton, but the Leafs seem to have made two really good trades today. I thought Dion was one of the better dmen in the league, weird to see him get traded like this.

[samifan24]

I thought Dion was one of the better dmen in the league, weird to see him get traded like this.

He is one of the elite defensemen in the league. I follow the NHL closely and I'm not really sure why a team would deal its star defenseman to "shake things up." I know the Flames have Bouwmeester but still.

[bbor]

Dion was having big troubles in Calgary...I think it was addition by subtraction for tehm.Apparently he had turned into a bit of a cancer in the dressing room.Still i would think they would get at least 1 top flight name for him.I like the deal for T.O but i dunno how they are gonna fill all the holes they made in their line up.I imagine Kabere will be moved now for a forward.

I think the Leafs made out really well in the Anahiem deal.....Although both teams got rid of unmovable contracts(js and Toskula) but T.O wins the deal by getting rid of two unmovable contracts Toskula and Blake.Blake has speed to burn but really offers nothing else at all.

All in all a good day in Leafland(after a horrible night of blowing a 3-0 lead to the Nucks)

Now i wait patiently for the other shoe to drop.

[bhlloy]

Toskala is an UFA after this season so his contract means nothing at all. Looking at it in the light of day I agree with Johnny that it's a good deal for both teams.

[bbor]

Interesting tidbit...If Hiller gets injured the Ducks goalies would be Toskula and Pogge.

Been there...done that

[Chief Rum]

DI think the Leafs made out really well in the Anahiem deal.....Although both teams got rid of unmovable contracts(js and Toskula) but T.O wins the deal by getting rid of two unmovable contracts Toskula and Blake.Blake has speed to burn but really offers nothing else at all.

I don't think this is a deal where one team wins over the other. Both teams got something out of this.

As bhlloy pointed out, Toskala is an UFA. He's off the books by July, or back for much, much cheaper. Blake will probably playing with better linemates and out of the media circus of Toronto. Also, most of the Ducks' forwards are speedy--he'll be a better fit there. So I suspect Blake will play a little better in Anaheim than he did in Toronto. Koivu (UFA) and Selanne (retirement) are probably gone after this year, so good to get a potential top six forward now, even at Blake's cap hit.

And we gained that by moving an openly disgruntled backup GK to Toronto who will be making around $7 M next year, with a cap hit of $6 M.

With the cap hit saved, the next contract will be to Bobby Ryan to keep him out of RFA this summer.

So this is a deal that is entirely positive for the Ducks.

And I like the deal for the Leafs as well, for the reasons stated already by Leafs fans.

Could Chief Rum be a Leafs fan in the EC? I don't have a team to follow out there, but now that you guys have Jiggy, Beauch, former Ducks coach Ron Wilson and Burke, it would be hard for me not to root for you guys over other EC teams more often than not.

[Chief Rum]

Interesting tidbit...If Hiller gets injured the Ducks goalies would be Toskula and Pogge.

Been there...done that

A pox on you.

[bbor]

I think i am starting to agree with you guys on the Toskula/Blake for Jiggy deal.It really does make sense for both teams.I guess i am just amazed that the Leafs moved both players.It does not make sense for the Ducks to have 7 mil sitting on their bench.

The Toronto Ducks has a nice ring to it...no?:)

Perhaps we need one more Duck before we change our name....Bobby Ryan perhaps:D

[Honolulu_Blue]

It looks like the Toronto/Anaheim deal is essentially swapping Blake's contract for Giguere's. Blake can, at times, provide some secondary scoring for Anaheim to take some pressure off that top line. That said, if you had to compare the two contracts, a team is likely to get better value out of Giguere than Blake.

It makes sense for Anaheim to move a big contract that was sitting on the bench for a slightly smaller contract that, at the very least, will see some ice time.

The Calgary/Toronto deal is a bit odd. Phanuef, two years ago, was considered one of the young, elite defensemen in the league. His play dropped off last year and he's actually been pretty brutal so far this year. Just a huge liability defensively and without the offensive upside. Still, he's only 24, so there's hope for him yet.

As for what Calgary is getting... I like Hagman, Mayers and Stajan are ok and White has been pretty decent so far this year. I am just not sure if this trade solves their issues.

I guess, at the end of the day, if you judge a trade by which team got the best player, I think Toronto got the best player in each deal. I still have no idea how they plan on scoring, but at least Giguere should help keep the puck out of the net a little better.

[lerriuqs]

He was one of the elite defensemen in the league. I follow the NHL closely and I'm not really sure why a team would deal its star defenseman to "shake things up." I know the Flames have Bouwmeester but still.

Fixed for you. Phaneuf hasn't been close to elite for over a season now. He's looked lost in about 3 quarters of the rink on many a night and got himself in trouble trying to do too much lugging of the puck (often with very little tangible results). Also, the guy was apparently a cancer in the locker room...he made himself expendable.

[samifan24]

Calgary trades C Olli Jokinen to NYR for RW Ales Kotalik & C Chris Higgins

[Suburban Rhythm]

Fixed for you. Phaneuf hasn't been close to elite for over a season now. He's looked lost in about 3 quarters of the rink on many a night and got himself in trouble trying to do too much lugging of the puck (often with very little tangible results). Also, the guy was apparently a cancer in the locker room...he made himself expendable.

I'l go one futher-

He is/was expected to be one of the top defensemen in the league. He had an oustanding rookie year and has regressed since. Too soon to write him off as a bust, but he hasn't reached the level most thought he'd be at by this point of his career.

He's still young for a defenseman, so he might yet "get it". He has a big shot, and throws big hits, but he doesn't play a total game yet.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Calgary trades C Olli Jokinen to NYR for RW Ales Kotalik & C Chris Higgins

Tortarella is gonna love Jokinen :p

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Is it March 3rd?

[chrisj]

Question: How to make Dion Phanuef 10x more overrated than he already is?

Answer: Trade him to Toronto.

--

Seriously, like many have said, Phanuef was great his first 2-3 years in the league - but something happened. Maybe the league figured him out? I'm not sure. His numbers are still look good - but his defensive play has been awful, and he is not nearly as effective offensively.

In fact, from just a #'s perspective, Ian White looks better than Phaneuf (I haven't seen White play much, so I have no idea how his play compares to Dion...).

Honestly, that trade is a win for Calgary. Gives them a bit of depth up front, and moves a guy who can be a clubhouse distraction.

--

On a final note - a bit of a funny story. A couple years ago a few of us were out at a Calgary club one night. One of my friends is a very attractive blonde girl. A guy comes up to us (well, her) and starts hitting on her. She turned him down, and he was like "do you know who I am?". She said "no", and he got all pissed off and walked away cursing at her.

Of course, it was Dion Phaneuf.

[Galaxy]

Miller wore his Olympic mask in practice today. Pretty sharp. (only going to wear it for the Olympics). Love the throwback Uncle Sam.

wgrz.com | Buffalo, NY | Ryan Miller's Olympic Mask (http://www.wgrz.com/sports/pro_hockey/nhl/sabres/story.aspx?storyid=74074&catid=140)

(I believe the stars represent the 13 colonies.)

[Johnny93g]

Seriously, like many have said, Phanuef was great his first 2-3 years in the league - but something happened. Maybe the league figured him out? I'm not sure. His numbers are still look good - but his defensive play has been awful, and he is not nearly as effective offensively.

In fact, from just a #'s perspective, Ian White looks better than Phaneuf (I haven't seen White play much, so I have no idea how his play compares to Dion...).

Honestly, that trade is a win for Calgary. Gives them a bit of depth up front, and moves a guy who can be a clubhouse distraction.

Of course, it was Dion Phaneuf.

Ian White and Dion Phaneuf have probably performed very similarly this season. Here's the big difference. Ian White is playing at about 95% of his ability. He won't get much better then he his right now. People seem to agree that Phaneuf is playing at about 50-60% percent of his ability.

Toronto has Gunnarsson, Beauchemin and now Phaneuf who are all capable of at the very least, doing what Ian White did.

Matt Stajan was a product of his ice time and line mates. You play enough, with guys who score every once in a while, you'll get a few points. Can John Mitchell play Stajan minutes and score 20 points in the remaining 34 games(approximately Stajan's pace) maybe, he'll probably finish closer to 15 points, but the difference is negligible.

Mayers is a 4th line tough guy. The Leafs have Colton Orr and Jay Rosehill. Won't miss him.

Nick Hagman is having a great season. 20 goals, very streaky, but producing. Will the Leafs miss him. Ya, probably, but they weren't winning with him in the lineup.

My point is, the Leafs aren't taking a huge chance here. If Phaneuf doesn't get back to his early form, then the Leafs have a ok defensmen, who is a good pp goal scorer. If he reaches the potential everyone believes he has, it's a home run.

I don't know anyone who knows hockey that wouldn't make this trade from the Toronto perspective. They lose next to nothing, and pick up a package that could be great. As of right now, they are the clear winners.

[Dr. Sak]

Tortarella is gonna love Jokinen :p

Hey it worked for Gaborik.

[Ajaxab]

Ian White and Dion Phaneuf have probably performed very similarly this season. Here's the big difference. Ian White is playing at about 95% of his ability. He won't get much better then he his right now. People seem to agree that Phaneuf is playing at about 50-60% percent of his ability.

+1 This seems like a classic buy low and sell high for Burke and the Leafs.

[johnnyshaka]

Dion signed his big deal and promptly started phoning it in. Maybe Keenan started calling him on his pussy antics (loves to take runs at guys but scurries away as soon as things get physical in hopes that one of their other tough guys will step up for him) and now both Sutters have seen what Keenan was whining about and finally rode him out of town.

Without Phaneuf, the Flames D will be just fine and that's before you factor in White. But I'm sure the Sutters have something else up their sleeve to sort out their scoring issues...and I hope to God they haven't figured out a way to play the Oilers the rest of their remaining games!!!

[Fidatelo]

I think these trades are all pretty reasonable from every side. It's kind of cool, actually. Too often in sports nowadays the trades are lop-sided and some dude is getting sold for 60 cents on the dollar (for various reasons not usually related to how the player fits on the field/rink/court). I hope this trend continues.

[Pyser]

paul martin has pulled out of the olympics. his broken arm hasnt healed in time.

[chrisj]

My point is, the Leafs aren't taking a huge chance here. If Phaneuf doesn't get back to his early form, then the Leafs have a ok defensmen, who is a good pp goal scorer. If he reaches the potential everyone believes he has, it's a home run.

I don't know anyone who knows hockey that wouldn't make this trade from the Toronto perspective. They lose next to nothing, and pick up a package that could be great. As of right now, they are the clear winners.

Except for the fact that Phaneuf has the 8th highest cap hit for a d-man - but is far from the 8th best d-man in the league. Granted, the Leafs are in good shape salary cap wise next season - but how about in 2013/2014 if Phaneuf is still a #3/#4 d-man who is good on the powerplay?

I mean, it's not as bad as Shawn Horcoff, but to suggest that this is a steal is a little bit off. There's quite a bit of risk for both teams here.

[Galaxy]

What's with Ryan Miller and the Pens? I know he didn't get much help from the guys in front (hey D, learn to lay down to take away the pass on 2-on-1s), but he just seems to be having a tough time against them .

[johnnyshaka]

Holy shit, the Oilers just might win a game...sorry, Carolina.

[bbor]

Except for the fact that Phaneuf has the 8th highest cap hit for a d-man - but is far from the 8th best d-man in the league. Granted, the Leafs are in good shape salary cap wise next season - but how about in 2013/2014 if Phaneuf is still a #3/#4 d-man who is good on the powerplay?

I mean, it's not as bad as Shawn Horcoff, but to suggest that this is a steal is a little bit off. There's quite a bit of risk for both teams here.

In 13/14 Phaneuf will still only be 29.I think a lot of people fail to realize this guy is still only 24.Granted he may have leveled off,but most D-men do develop a little bit later than forwards.Bottom line is the Leafs were going nowhere with the players they traded for Phaneuf,will they go somewhere with Phaneuf?Who knows?As they sayyou need to break a few eggs to make a omlette.

A risk well worth taking IMHO.

[Galaxy]

In 13/14 Phaneuf will still only be 29.I think a lot of people fail to realize this guy is still only 24.Granted he may have leveled off,but most D-men do develop a little bit later than forwards.Bottom line is the Leafs were going nowhere with the players they traded for Phaneuf,will they go somewhere with Phaneuf?Who knows?As they sayyou need to break a few eggs to make a omlette.

A risk well worth taking IMHO.

I guess the one problem with Phaneuf is he's not the most popular player in the locker room (just was listening to Rob Ray talk about it on the radio today).

[bbor]

I guess the one problem with Phaneuf is he's not the most popular player in the locker room (just was listening to Rob Ray talk about it on the radio today).

Definatly a concern.Especially since the Leafs don't have a player with a strong dressing room presence.

[chrisj]

In 13/14 Phaneuf will still only be 29.I think a lot of people fail to realize this guy is still only 24.Granted he may have leveled off,but most D-men do develop a little bit later than forwards.Bottom line is the Leafs were going nowhere with the players they traded for Phaneuf,will they go somewhere with Phaneuf?Who knows?As they sayyou need to break a few eggs to make a omlette.

A risk well worth taking IMHO.

Oh - I know he could become a star, he certainly has the potential. All I am saying is that some media out of Toronto are talking about how this was a steal - and while it could look that way in a few years, it does come with a lot of risk.

With that being said - I won't argue that in 4 years, Phaneuf could be be as good or better as someone like Chris Pronger was in his prime. Just saying he could also be Jason Smith.

Won't argue with the fact the Leafs needed to do something. With no first rounders for the next two years, they needed to do some sort of deal. If Phaneuf and Kessle both develop to be elite players, Toronto could have something really good.

[Johnny93g]

Except for the fact that Phaneuf has the 8th highest cap hit for a d-man - but is far from the 8th best d-man in the league. Granted, the Leafs are in good shape salary cap wise next season - but how about in 2013/2014 if Phaneuf is still a #3/#4 d-man who is good on the powerplay?

I mean, it's not as bad as Shawn Horcoff, but to suggest that this is a steal is a little bit off. There's quite a bit of risk for both teams here.

I see what your saying, but compared to some of the crazy 10, 12 year contracts, Pronger's 6 year contract, Hossa's, DiPietro's, I guess i don't see it as a problem, or even that bad a contract.

If the cap goes down, and Phaneuf is bad, then it's a bit of a problem, but most teams will be in bad shape in that scenario.

The Leafs have been pretty bad this year. They traded 3 key players, who contributed to a bad record, whose number's looked nice, but couldn't help us win, for a young, physical, offensive, norris trophy nominated defenseman, who may or may not be the next coming of Jesus.

I think we'll just have to agree to disagree here, as I see almost no risk for Toronto. NHL2010 AI would not make this trade!!!

[Suburban Rhythm]

What's with Ryan Miller and the Pens? I know he didn't get much help from the guys in front (hey D, learn to lay down to away the pass on 2-on-1s), but he just seems to be having a tough time against them .

SAT analogy (those are still on the SATs, right?)

Penguins : Miller as Brodeur : Penguins

Whatever it is, Pittsburgh has his number, but can not beat Brodeur this year. NJ 4-0 against Pens, outscoring them 14-2 with shutouts in the last 2.

[Maple Leafs]

paul martin has pulled out of the olympics. his broken arm hasnt healed in time.
Interesting... normally being forced to pull out causes the sore forearm, not the other way around.

[Logan]

I really like the Jokinen trade for the Rangers. Not only should it be good for Gaborik, but the Kotalik signing was beyond awful at $3M per with two years left. I don't know what the hell Sather thinks when he signs some guys, but he seems to have a knack for getting out from under the albatrosses.

[Dr. Sak]

Today's stat of the day...Jokinen's first game as a Flame was a 2 goal performance against the Flyers in Philly. His last game as a Flame was a 0 point performance against the Flyers in Calgary.

[Logan]

I'd expect his next game against Philly to be a 0 pointer.

In all honesty, he could not score a point for the rest of the season and it would still be a win based on money.

[bbor]

Today's stat of the day...Jokinen's first game as a Flame was a 2 goal performance against the Flyers in Philly. His last game as a Flame was a 0 point performance against the Flyers in Calgary.


A contributing factor to him getting zero points against the Flyers in his last game could have been that he knew the trade was happening brfore the game started.

Dumb Dumb Dumb decision by the Flames to play him.

[Dr. Sak]

Oh definitely...but I'm not complaining. The Flyers need all the points they can get.

[Galaxy]

I think teams should stay away from signing former Sabre players. They never seem to live play at the same level and play up to the contract values they get after they leave.

[DeToxRox]

Haven't seen this in forever but Kronwall's blade broke right off his skate during the middle of a Sharks PP. Thankfully SJ got a penalty so he could get off the ice.

[JonInMiddleGA]

So ... where's Kovy going to end up?

And how bad a deal will Waddell end up making?

edit: Some brief ATL local linkage
http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-thrashers-blog/2010/02/02/kovalchuk-trade-talks-heating-up/

[Wolfpack]

Holy shit, the Oilers just might win a game...sorry, Carolina.

Don't mention it. Ever. :D

Seriously, it was weird to watch a team that was 28th in the standings take a team that was 30th in the standings somewhat for granted, but that seemed to happen last night, especially after Alberts popped in that bomb early on. From that point, Carolina just seemed to be content to see if they could sneak in another one like that while the Oilers decided to actually play hockey. Just a flat performance all the way around and Ward was off his game enough that he couldn't make up for the shoddy play in front of him unlike in the Blackhawks game.

Sure did bring the "playoff drive" to a screeching halt, though.

[DeToxRox]

So ... where's Kovy going to end up?

And how bad a deal will Waddell end up making?

edit: Some brief ATL local linkage
Kovalchuk trade talks heating up | Atlanta Thrashers (http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-thrashers-blog/2010/02/02/kovalchuk-trade-talks-heating-up/)

LA makes the most sense. They have a young, disgruntled franchise potential Dmen (Jack Johnson), plus tons of depth to get it done.

I don't know all the finances though.

[Chief Rum]

Key game tomorrow night between the Ducks and Wings.

[DeToxRox]

Key game tomorrow night between the Ducks and Wings.

Wings need points but hey, 3 of 4 points from Pit/SJ on the road works for me. Kronwall is probably out tomorrow which sucks. He tweaked something in the third. They say its not bad but I doubt he starts. I also assume Ozzy gets the start. I hope he can have a good one finally but I'm not holding my breath.

[johnnyshaka]

Don't mention it. Ever. :D

Seriously, it was weird to watch a team that was 28th in the standings take a team that was 30th in the standings somewhat for granted, but that seemed to happen last night, especially after Alberts popped in that bomb early on. From that point, Carolina just seemed to be content to see if they could sneak in another one like that while the Oilers decided to actually play hockey. Just a flat performance all the way around and Ward was off his game enough that he couldn't make up for the shoddy play in front of him unlike in the Blackhawks game.

Sure did bring the "playoff drive" to a screeching halt, though.

The Oilers didn't deserve to win that game but believe it or not, they actually got the puck to bounce their way for a change. Our goalie was luckier than yers is essentially what it boiled down to.

[Maple Leafs]

In one of his first shifts as a Leaf, Dion Phaneuf beat up Colin White.

I think Pumpy and I had simultaneous climaxes.

[johnnyshaka]

I think "beat up" is being used a little too liberally when describing that fight...that was Phaneuf holding on as best he could while wearing his "you can't punch me without messing your hands up" hat.

I didn't think it was possible to dislike the Leafs anymore than I did before that trade...but I think I do now. And all Burke would have to do is acquire Tootoo and I think I just might have to start throwing around the word "hate" when it comes to the Leafs.

[MikeVic]

In one of his first shifts as a Leaf, Dion Phaneuf beat up Colin White.

I think Pumpy and I had simultaneous climaxes.

:D I saw the highlights, and when they mentioned Colin White it made me smile.

[Maple Leafs]

I think "beat up" is being used a little too liberally when describing that fight...that was Phaneuf holding on as best he could while wearing his "you can't punch me without messing your hands up" hat.
If you want a guy to take off his lid, you can't jump him and try for a bear hug right off the bat.

[Fidatelo]

I'm seeing on TSN.ca that the Leafs are looking to trade Ponikarovski now. I don't get it, why would you trade 29-year old guy that puts up 20+ goals and about 60 points and is always a + player (on a crappy team, no less)? Seems like a pretty solid second line player to me. Is his salary totally out of control or something? And even then, why would Toronto care? It's not like they are in cap trouble or don't have the financial means. This seems strange to me.

[bbor]

Fid.....you answered your own question there.He is 29 year old UFA,i think Burke does'nt plan on carrying anyone who will be too old to help him in 3 or 4 years when the team is competetive.

[Fidatelo]

Fid.....you answered your own question there.He is 29 year old UFA,i think Burke does'nt plan on carrying anyone who will be too old to help him in 3 or 4 years when the team is competetive.

Ah I see, I didn't realise he was a UFA, that makes all the difference. He'll be a rental then for a contender.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Fid.....you answered your own question there.He is 29 year old UFA,i think Burke does'nt plan on carrying anyone who will be too old to help him in 3 or 4 years when the team is competetive.

He'll only be 32-33 in 3 or 4 years! That's "too old" to help the Leafs? He'll still be a few years from his prime then!

[MikeVic]

He'll only be 32-33 in 3 or 4 years! That's "too old" to help the Leafs? He'll still be a few years from his prime then!

lol

[johnnyshaka]

If you want a guy to take off his lid, you can't jump him and try for a bear hug right off the bat.

Point is if Phaneuf is going to play the role of "head hunter" then he shouldn't be wearing the shield to begin with.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Bob Mackenzie is reporting that the following teams are interested in Kovalchuk: Boston, New Jersey, Rangers, Philadelphia, Calgary, Chicago and L.A.

It will be really interesting to see where he goes, what Atlanta will get for him and if the team who gets him already has an extension worked out.

L.A. seems to make the most sense to me, but I guess it comes down to which team makes the Thrashers the best offer.

The Blackhawks would seem to make the littlest sense. I'm not sure why they'd make such a drastic move at this point in the season for a winger, even one as talented as Kovalchuk.

Can the Thrasher's franchise survive this?

[Pyser]

no way the devils get kovy. rangers cant afford him either, youd think. nor philly. to me that leaves calgary, boston and la. youd think if calgary were in the running phaneuf wouldve been involved, though.

[Pyser]

hitchcock out

[Galaxy]

Heard that Ray Whitney to the Kings is pretty much almost a done deal. However, Ray wants a 3-year extension in order to waive his no-trade clause. It sounds like they're working out the details (perhaps an extension that is heavily front-loaded?).

[Pyser]

isnt he 37? so the entire deal would be guaranteed? thats a tough pill to swallow for a kings team thats gonna have to start paying these kids soon...

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Islanders waived Brendan Witt. I've always been a fan of his, but I really don't think he's worth $3 million a year (signed throug next year).

[samifan24]

Any Avs fans here? What's the deal with this Brandon Yip kid and when will he stop scoring goals?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Bob Mackenzie is reporting that the following teams are interested in Kovalchuk: Boston, New Jersey, Rangers, Philadelphia, Calgary, Chicago and L.A.

It will be really interesting to see where he goes, what Atlanta will get for him and if the team who gets him already has an extension worked out.

L.A. seems to make the most sense to me, but I guess it comes down to which team makes the Thrashers the best offer.

The Blackhawks would seem to make the littlest sense. I'm not sure why they'd make such a drastic move at this point in the season for a winger, even one as talented as Kovalchuk.

Can the Thrasher's franchise survive this?

I don't agree with it, but can understand the Hawks thinking a little.

The must move (dump) some players in the offseason. If they are losing say at least 2 of Sharp, Versteeg, and Barker in July, you move them in March for 3 months of Kovalchuk if you think that moves puts you over the top.

Again, I don't agree with it, I think Sharp and Versteeg are the type of secondary players you need in the playoffs, Kovalchuk is not that type. He's redundant on a team with Kane and Hossa.

[TurnerONU22]

hitchcock out

Finally.

Now, can someone find Craig MacTavish and lock him up until after the Jackets decide on a new coach. Thanks.

[Travis]

Finally.

Now, can someone find Craig MacTavish and lock him up until after the Jackets decide on a new coach. Thanks.

No no no, the Oilers need MacT hired somewhere prior to the deadline so we can trade Horcoff to his new team.

Pretty pretty please.

[johnnyshaka]

Finally.

Now, can someone find Craig MacTavish and lock him up until after the Jackets decide on a new coach. Thanks.

There are rumors swirling around the city that he's having health issues. Don't know what or how severe or even if the rumors are remotely true.

[TurnerONU22]

No no no, the Oilers need MacT hired somewhere prior to the deadline so we can trade Horcoff to his new team.

Pretty pretty please.

Sounds like something Howson would do.

I'm really hoping for Kevin Dineen, former CBJ player coaching for Portland in the AHL.

[Travis]

There are rumors swirling around the city that he's having health issues. Don't know what or how severe or even if the rumors are remotely true.

Who? Horc, MacT or Hitch? So far I haven't seen any mention of any of those guys from all the talking heads on twitter other than Hitch of course being turfed.

[Galaxy]

Kind of dumb that HSBC Arena doesn't have an overhead view of the goal nets. It should be mandatory in every arena.

[johnnyshaka]

Who? Horc, MacT or Hitch? So far I haven't seen any mention of any of those guys from all the talking heads on twitter other than Hitch of course being turfed.

MacT...I've seen a few comments about him being ill on some of the oiler blog sites...again, nothing concrete but he also hasn't been on any of the TSN broadcasts lately (or that I've noticed) so I'm inclined to believe that something's up.

[samifan24]

I'm really hoping for Kevin Dineen, former CBJ player coaching for Portland in the AHL.

Mr. Hartford Whaler Kevin Dineen!

[Pumpy Tudors]

In one of his first shifts as a Leaf, Dion Phaneuf beat up Colin White.

I think Pumpy and I had simultaneous climaxes.
I cannot disagree.

[TurnerONU22]

Mr. Hartford Whaler Kevin Dineen!

Yeah, between Dineen, Geoff Sanderson, and Andrew Cassels (don't forget Robert Kron!) the early Jackets had a few former Whalers.

Sadly, Doug MacLean basically made Dineen retire during the 02-03 season, instead of letting Kevin go out on his own terms. I always liked the guy, and remember his toughness during those first two seasons. I think he'd be a perfect fit for this team.

[bhlloy]

Hiller has just been ungodly since the Giguere trade, 30 save shutout and then a 46 save effort against the Wings tonight to absolutely steal a win. Detroit had 29 scoring chances and only scored one goal, unbelievable performance.

Hopefully this is a great sign that he can handle the pressure of being the undisputed number one. I've said all along he's got the positioning and the agility to be a top 5 goalie (and maybe even better - I've only seen a couple of guys go side to side like he can in the last 15 years I've been watching the NHL), the only bit I had any doubts about was the mental side of the game.

[bbor]

How was Blake?

[johnnyshaka]

F'ing Oilers are on a tear!!!

[bhlloy]

Funny, I was going to post a DOLA about Blake but got distracted.

So far so good, he's hustling and going hard to the net/playing in the corners. Not sure if he'll keep it up but he looks like he's still got something left to me. I think the Selanne-Koivu-Blake line could cause a lot of problems with their pure speed. They looked pretty good tonight but just didn't have the final product, once they gel I'm pretty confident they'll be a decent second line. Not sure Blake brings more than Sexton on the offensive end but he's definitely much more responsible with the puck and a much better all-around player.

[Maple Leafs]

He'll only be 32-33 in 3 or 4 years! That's "too old" to help the Leafs? He'll still be a few years from his prime then!
Leafs are now the youngest team in the league, apparently.

[Maple Leafs]

So far so good, he's hustling and going hard to the net/playing in the corners. Not sure if he'll keep it up but he looks like he's still got something left to me.
Oh, he hustles alright. He doesn't pass, or score, or hit, or get off the ice until his shift is 90 seconds old, and his teammates all hate him, but he does hustle. Enjoy your $4M hustler for the next three years.

[Pyser]

usa today guy (who is good with atlanta news, apparently) says kovy is getting dealt tonight to an eastern conference team. tsn adds its not the bruins or rangers. any guesses?

[JonInMiddleGA]

usa today guy (who is good with atlanta news, apparently) says kovy is getting dealt tonight to an eastern conference team. tsn adds its not the bruins or rangers. any guesses?

It'd be like Waddell to deal him to the East, another idiotic move from the resident idiot.

I mean, it's not as though it matters what they get in return for him, if DW makes the call then they're going to be a bust regardless, so why not at least deal him to the West for a couple of bags of pucks just so the few remaining fans don't have to have it rubbed in their face as often.

[JonInMiddleGA]

But if I had to make a guess based on those parameters, I'll say it's Pittsburgh.

Something like Ilya & Afinogenov in return for Letang, Dupuis, a 1st, and some bodies to make the cap work out.

Of course, this is DW, so ATL will probably throw in Slater and do a 3-for-1 to get Gonchar.

[DeToxRox]

Kovy to the Devils is a done deal according to FSN in NJ. No other details.

[Pyser]

fuck me. apparently its the devils.

[Pyser]

id guess bergfors, oduya and some picks.

[Pumpy Tudors]

help

[JonInMiddleGA]

id guess bergfors, oduya and some picks.

That'd be typical DW.

A second liner who hasn't scored a goal since 12/30, a d-man, and some picks to fuck up.

Thrashers ought to have held out to at least make someone take Waddell in the deal but that would have required competent ownership that actually, you know, had any interest whatsoever in hockey.

[DeToxRox]

This move makes no sense for either team. NJ is giving up a decent amount for a rental when you consider Ilya does not fit their system. I know they can change the system but it's their staple.

For Atlanta .. I know he was gonna be a UFA but this is the best you can do .. Really?

[Pyser]

mind you, thats a total guess. but bergfors is a rookie, and has promise. oduyas solid, but having a bad year. but hes a smooth skating dman.

also, atlanta really devalued kovy by waiting, and then announcing he wont take a 100m deal. so its a clear rental situation, making him cheaper.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I just heard Oduya plus two guys from Lowell (D Tyler Eckford and LW Alexander Vasyunov). Neither of those two minor-leaguers is going to be very useful down the line, I don't think.

Edit: I have no idea if this is accurate. Internet trashpress insiders, etc.

[Pyser]

pumpy, if we made this deal AND kept bergfors.....well, holy shit. thats WAY too good to be true.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Welp, now the rumors are saying Bergfors. Who the hell knows?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Welp, now the rumors are saying Bergfors. Who the hell knows?

H_B's college football recruiting insider >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Pumpy's hockey insder.

[Pumpy Tudors]

help

[cartman]

I heard it was Parise and Brodeur.


not really

[Dr. Sak]

I heard Colin White is not involved in the deal.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I heard you can all kiss my ass.

[Dr. Sak]

FriedmanHNIC

Believe the deal is Oduya, bergfors, nick palmieri and a first rounder

[Logan]

A very un-Lou like move no?

[Pyser]

i nearly called it.

Atlanta Thrashers receive Oduya, Bergfors, Patrice Cormier and a 1st-round pick for Kovalchuk