It's BACK! The 2005-2006 NHL Season

[RPI-Fan]

...

Go fat guys!

One fat, one medium, two little!!!!!!!!!!!!

~rpi-fan

[Honolulu_Blue]

One fat, one medium, two little!!!!!!!!!!!!

~rpi-fan
Exactly!!!

[Maple Leafs]

Sportsnet says Foote to the Blue Jackets.

[Simms]

As does TSN: http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=132173

[Draft Dodger]

Sportsnet says Foote to the Blue Jackets.

3 years at 4.5 per.
yowsers

EDIT: I believe that is actually a raise from his last contract...no 24% rollback for him.

a nice fit for the BJs, but man that's a lot of dough.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Great. Now we get to see Ugly Head 8 times a year. Just great...

[Draft Dodger]

Great. Now we get to see Ugly Head 8 times a year. Just great...

and I won't have to see those terrible jewelry store commercials on Avs Center Ice broadcasts anymore!

[Karim]

I'm already liking this CBA.

[Draft Dodger]

btw, coincidentally, my NHL calendar for August features, or course, Adam Foote.

[bbor]

Wa-wa-wa---wow.....Go JACKETS....Maclean is making noise in Columbus...i like it.I think he could become one of the best GM's in the "new" NHL.

[Chubby]

they overpaid, I'm not sold on Foote in the new NHL

[Draft Dodger]

they overpaid, I'm not sold on Foote in the new NHL

I agree.
half a million more than Zubov got, and I think most people here agree that Dallas overpaid.

[Honolulu_Blue]

If Adam Foote is making $4.5 million, Zubov $4 million, Nieuwendyk and Roberts each $2.5 million, I am begining to think that perhaps the players didn't get screwed quite so badly after all. Sure, they could have demanded a bit more in a no-cap NHL, but these aren't bad salaries.

[TazFTW]

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:


Report: Market heats up for Modano

http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20050802/modano_5093.jpg
TSN.ca Staff



8/2/2005 1:24:20 AM

For the first time in his career, Mike Modano may be donning a jersey other than that of the Stars.

According to a report on RDS.ca, the Boston Bruins are expected to sign the 35-year-old centre with an announcement coming as early as Tuesday. Modano had three offers to consider with the Bruins being the front-runner. The Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins are the others in the race for his services.

On Monday, Modano told the Dallas Morning News that the Stars never made an offer to him or agent Brian Lawton and that the Stars are hesitant about offering him a long-term deal because of his age.

"It just doesn't make sense," Modano told the newspaper. ''I'm old at 35 and Zubie isn't? I don't get it."

Modano was refering to the three-year, $12 million contract defenceman Sergei Zubov signed on Sunday. Zubov, 35, has played eight seasons with the Stars, helping the club win the Stanley Cup in 1999.


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"All things being equal, I'd love to be here," he said. "It's a great place, and I want to finish my career here. But I guess we just have to go out and see what's out there."

Modano was drafted by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1st round (1st overall) in 1988. In 1101 career games, the 6-3, 205-pound Modano has collected 458 goals and 1106 points.

[TurnerONU22]

Wow, I didn't wake up expecting to see this news!!! This is awesome!!!

While MacLean might have overpaid a little bit, his top priority over the past three years has been to get a tough D-man that will clear out the crease. It seems that the Jackets have finally got their guy. Now, lets see what else MacLean does, as he still wants another forward and another d-man. Also, on our TV station last night, they said that Doug has put out pretty good offers to Forsberg and Naslund..........wow.

[Honolulu_Blue]

While MacLean might have overpaid a little bit, his top priority over the past three years has been to get a tough D-man that will clear out the crease. It seems that the Jackets have finally got their guy.
What about Luke Richardson? Isn't that what he is? A tough D-man that will clear out the crease? Poor Luke Richardson. Is he even playing anymore?

[TurnerONU22]

What about Luke Richardson? Isn't that what he is? A tough D-man that will clear out the crease? Poor Luke Richardson. Is he even playing anymore?

Luke has been a MAJOR disappointment and the only reason I don't think MacLean bought him out was the fact that he was the captain, and what does that tell your team when the captain is bought out? Also, he bought out Lachance, and I don't think he wanted to buy out two D-men.

I like Luke because he's a really nice guy, but I still am waiting for that mean streak he supposedly has on the ice. My nickname for him when he's out on the ice is "Standing Pylon". Of course, my nickname for Lachance was "Bag O' Pucks", because that's all I thought we could get for him in a trade.

[Draft Dodger]

you know it's a new era when Modano is a free agent and the teams chasing him aren't Toronto, Colorado and Detroit but Pittsburgh, Atlanta and Boston.

[sachmo71]

Yup, I've made peace with the fact that Modano might not be a Star much longer. New NHL and all of that.


*Sniff, Sniff*

Will someone hold me?


Foote is overpaid, IMO.

[Honolulu_Blue]

TSN is now reporting that the Flyers are on the verge of announcing deals with Derian Hatcher and Mike Rathje. This should surprise no one. Clarke and the Flyers have always gone for biggest defensemen they can find. Perhaps Clarke was giving advice to George McPhee of the Caps during this years draft...

[Honolulu_Blue]

Latest from Eklund (still needs to be confirmed from one acutally reliable source) Aucoin signed with Chicago at $4 million a year for four years (need to confirm). I think that's a pretty good deal for Chicago. Aucoin is a few years younger than Zubov/Foote. He can play like 57 minutes a night. He's physical, can kill penalties, and has a big shot from the point. I like this signing.

[sachmo71]

Ohhh, Hatcher is going to LOVE playing for Hitch again.

[Karim]

Hatcher and Rathje to Philly (no terms disclosed)
Aucoin to Chicago $16 million/4 years

[TazFTW]

Hatcher and Rathje to Philly (no terms disclosed)
They've also added Chris Therein.

[Draft Dodger]

a nice looking blueline for the Flyers - Hatcher and Rathje joining Johnsson, Markov and Desjardins.

[bbor]

a nice looking blueline for the Flyers - Hatcher and Rathje joining Johnsson, Markov and Desjardins.

If the obstruction rules are called this season the Flyers are in trouble...if they are'nt called...the Flyers may win the cup.

[bbor]

Holik to Thrashers.....

[Simms]

a nice looking blueline for the Flyers - Hatcher and Rathje joining Johnsson, Markov and Desjardins.
http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/hockey/nhl/12284336.htm

To make cap room for all four players, the Flyers traded defenseman Danny Markov to the Nashville Predators, according to league sources. That trade will be announced later today.

[Simms]

LeafsLunch (radio) reporting Allison will sign here w/in the next day or so.

[Johnny93g]

wow...alot of cash getting tossed around.....more then i thought would be anyway...
Im thinking that if people arent getting signed right now, they will have to take less, cuz the cap room wont be there for some teams...also, I can see contracts like Adam Foote's and Sergei Zubov becoming very bad after the 1st few years of them.....Dallas will probably spend near the cap, and will be looking to dump Zubov in a year or 2, cuz he will take up too much cap room.....Adam Foote will be very hard to move when Columbus gets tired of him....noone will want that cap figure on their team....

Really hoping the Allison deal with Toronto is about 1-1.5

[Simms]

I'm guessing Allison won't be for much more than a million, plus bonuses. There's some clause in the CBA whereby his bonuses won't count against the cap (or will count less, or something) because he hasn't played in almost two years. Given the unproven nature of his comeback, I'd be amazed (and frankly, a little pissed at JFJ) if Allison saw much money up front at all.

[Karim]

$4.5 million for the first year for Holik

This site has the quickest updates that I've come across. Just keep refreshing:
http://www2.sportsnet.ca/nhl/free_agent_tracker.html

[HomerJSimpson]

$4.5 million for the first year for Holik

This site has the quickest updates that I've come across. Just keep refreshing:
http://www2.sportsnet.ca/nhl/free_agent_tracker.html


Goodness. I hope the salary goes down after this season, but not likely, eh?

[Johnny93g]

im thinking some of these contracts are part of the growing pains alot of teams will suffer through....4.5 for Holik is way too much....the average salary will be about 1.3.......that means Holik is over 3 teams better then the average player.......dumb sigining at that price

[HomerJSimpson]

im thinking some of these contracts are part of the growing pains alot of teams will suffer through....4.5 for Holik is way too much....the average salary will be about 1.3.......that means Holik is over 3 teams better then the average player.......dumb sigining at that price


I know nothing about hockey, and just looking at his stats came to the same conclusion.

[Pyser]

if holik is used correctly, hes the best defensive forward in hockey. he'll shut down the opposing teams top center. he is worth it, but only if you use him the way the devils did, not the way the rangers did.

[Karim]

Yzerman has re-signed with Detroit. Murray has re-signed with Boston for 4 years. They also signed Shawn McEachern for 2 years.

[Wolfpack]

*sigh*

Carolina is apparently going to play the role of leach. They've already told reporters that they aren't interested in going over the threshold for which teams receive money in revenue redistribution, which is somewhere around $28 mil from what I've read. They say they'll shell out for a couple of free agents for around $5 mil total. Nothing like having a cheapskate for an owner. He and others like him get the NHL shut down for a year and then when they get what they want, he still refuses to commit more money to be competitive? This isn't Chicago. The natives already have college basketball to get them through the winter and the defending national champion is just up the road from them. If anything, they needed to be aggressive to get some headlines to compete with the Triangle schools. This will just mean more empty seats and a continuing embarassment for the city and league.

[Draft Dodger]

I'm just amazed at some of these salaries. Johnny compared Holik to the average player, but I think it's even more ludicrous to compare his salary to the maximum. an Igninla or a Sakic or a Forsberg or a Naslund will just barely be making more than Holik, who maintains his status of being one of the most overpaid/overrated players in the league.

really quite stunned by all this, and question whether anyone is going to have any money left next year for what should be an even better free agency crop.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yzerman has re-signed with Detroit. Murray has re-signed with Boston for 4 years. They also signed Shawn McEachern for 2 years.
So long as the contracts are reasonable (whatever that means), these seem like good pick ups for Boston even if Murray is a bit one-dimensional and I have never been sold on McEachern.

While the Yzerman signing comes as no surprise at all, it still makes me very happy. This will in all likelihood be his last year, but it's pretty much a given that Yzerman will be on the team for as long as he likes. It'll be a pleasure to watch him play. It will be interesting to see what the Wings do next. This is their first "free agent" movie. So long as Yzerman is playing they should be gearing up for a Cup run.

Greatest. Sports figure. Ever.

[Draft Dodger]

nice to see Yzerman back.
wonder how some of the older guys (Yzerman, Messier, Hull, etc) will do with the year off. On one hand, I think their bodies would enjoy the season off without the punishment, but it's also one more year for their physical skills to erode just that much more.

[RPI-Fan]

Islanders look like we might blow it big-time. I'm not asking for us to sign anyone for more than $3mil a year or so (and can live with Aucoin leaving for $4mil for 4 years). HOWEVER, we absolutely HAVE to sign a player or two for well over the average salary to be competitive (especially on defense).

But Milbury's comments of "the team will look very similar to last year (2003)" is extremely disturbing, given that Aucoin is gone.

~rpi-fan

[Honolulu_Blue]

Islanders look like we might blow it big-time. I'm not asking for us to sign anyone for more than $3mil a year or so (and can live with Aucoin leaving for $4mil for 4 years). HOWEVER, we absolutely HAVE to sign a player or two for well over the average salary to be competitive (especially on defense).

But Milbury's comments of "the team will look very similar to last year (2003)" is extremely disturbing, given that Aucoin is gone.

~rpi-fan
But you have Alexei Yashin! :D

[Draft Dodger]

So long as the contracts are reasonable (whatever that means), these seem like good pick ups for Boston even if Murray is a bit one-dimensional and I have never been sold on McEachern.


Murray is a decent player who is made significantly better by playing with Joe Thornton - they have a great chemistry together on the ice. Playing with Thornton turned Murray into a 30-goal scorer (never hit that mark before he came here). I'm not saying he's a bum, but he's an all-star who is just average without Joe (who, btw, really wants out of Boston).

McEachern? meh.

[Draft Dodger]

Islanders look like we might blow it big-time. I'm not asking for us to sign anyone for more than $3mil a year or so (and can live with Aucoin leaving for $4mil for 4 years). HOWEVER, we absolutely HAVE to sign a player or two for well over the average salary to be competitive (especially on defense).

But Milbury's comments of "the team will look very similar to last year (2003)" is extremely disturbing, given that Aucoin is gone.

~rpi-fan

Milbury is on a short-list of guys (along with Keenan and Boobie Clark) that I am consistently amazed are still gainfully employed in this league.

[Draft Dodger]

Pavol Demitra to the Kings 3 years, 4.5 million per.
a bargain compared to Holik or Aucoin

[Karim]

Hatcher signed for $14 million/4 years.
Rathje signed for $17.5 million/5 years with a no-trade clause.

[Draft Dodger]

I need to stop sitting here refreshing that damn page

[Johnny93g]

Hatcher signed for $14 million/4 years.
Rathje signed for $17.5 million/5 years with a no-trade clause.
:confused:
Rathje, wow.....Hatcher, a deal compared to others

[Johnny93g]

the teams that are giving these contracts out may be better this year, but will hurt themself in the future......I guess you need to overspend to get players in the free agent market, but I think this will come back and bite some of these teams in the ass

BTW, Kings, Demitra, thats a great signing

[Draft Dodger]

the teams that are giving these contracts out may be better this year, but will hurt themself in the future......I guess you need to overspend to get players in the free agent market, but I think this will come back and bite some of these teams in the ass

BTW, Kings, Demitra, thats a great signing

agreed.
although they need another proven talent at forward (Modano?) or two to keep pressure off him. He is best when he doesn't have to do it all himself. Forsberg (*sob*) would be an interesting fit here...

[TazFTW]

A guy at Eklund's message boards is saying he heard The Ticket say that the Stars have offered Modano a 3 year $12 million deal. Hopefully that is enough to make him consider staying.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I mentioned it earlier, but it merits another mention.

If Adam Foote is making $4.5 million, Zubov $4 million, Nieuwendyk and Roberts each $2.5 million, Hatcher and Rathje pulling down $3.5 million, and Demetria at $4.5 million, I am begining to think that perhaps the players didn't get screwed quite so badly after all. Sure, they could have demanded a bit more in a no-cap NHL, but these aren't bad salaries. Unless one of these guys adopts Latrell Sprewell's family, they aren't going starve.

[Draft Dodger]

right - Foote got a freaking raise, for crying out loud. and remember, the minimum salary went up substantially to (up to 450,000 or something), so it's not like the low-end guys are going to get screwed over either.

odd. I really didn't expect this.

[TazFTW]

Kings sign Jason Labarbera. I didn't even know he was a FA. I guess this means the Rangers will have Lundqvist as the backup goalie. Unless the Rangers feel Al Montoya is the better of the two.

[JonInMiddleGA]

from ajc.com
Making the biggest free-agent signing in their history, the Thrashers signed free-agent center Bobby Holik, a two-time Stanley Cup champion who fits the bill of the big, physical two-way center they have always needed but never had.

Holik's agent Mike Gillis confirmed that the deal is for three years. The Thrashers were temporarily withholding comment. The Canadian Web site Sportsnet.ca reported that the first year of the contract would pay Holik $4.25 million.

[Karim]

NOTES -- First pick Sidney Crosby hits the American national-television talk circuit Thursday, appearing on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" while training in Los Angeles.

[Maple Leafs]

Sportsnet is consistently beating TSN on these signings. I don't think TSN has scooped one yet.

[Karim]

Sportsnet is consistently beating TSN on these signings. I don't think TSN has scooped one yet.
Bob's on holidays. ;)

[TazFTW]

If the obstruction rules are called this season the Flyers are in trouble...if they are'nt called...the Flyers may win the cup.
I agree. If they really crackdown on obstruction then those signings are going to be busts.


The Holik signing. Would he be the #1 center? I don't see Holik gelling with Heatley and Kovalchuk (provided the Thrashers are able to keep Heatley and Kovalchuk).

[HomerJSimpson]

I agree. If they really crackdown on obstruction then those signings are going to be busts.


The Holik signing. Would he be the #1 center? I don't see Holik gelling with Heatley and Kovalchuk (provided the Thrashers are able to keep Heatley and Kovalchuk).

They should. Waddell swears he'll match any offer.

[JonInMiddleGA]

from Roto Times ...
The Bruins signed free agent winger Shawn McEachern to a free agent deal on Tuesday, according to the TSN.ca. McEachern, who played the 1995-96 season with the Bruins, had 55 points in 82 games with the Thrashers in 2003-04.

re: Holik signing & lines ...Maybe, assuming I've managed to figure out who is still here & who is gone/leaving, it's Savard on the 1st line with Heatley & Kovalchuk, Holik centering the 2nd line with Kozlov & Mellanby/Petrovicky, and Stefan on the 3rd line with Vigier & Petrovicky/Mellanby?

[klayman]

I mentioned it earlier, but it merits another mention.

If Adam Foote is making $4.5 million, Zubov $4 million, Nieuwendyk and Roberts each $2.5 million, Hatcher and Rathje pulling down $3.5 million, and Demetria at $4.5 million, I am begining to think that perhaps the players didn't get screwed quite so badly after all. Sure, they could have demanded a bit more in a no-cap NHL, but these aren't bad salaries. Unless one of these guys adopts Latrell Sprewell's family, they aren't going starve.
Do I smell another lockout brewing? :)

[Draft Dodger]

Florida signs Martin Gelinas.

do they know they can sign guys who aren't ex-Flames?

[Karim]

Amonte signs with the Flames for $3.6 million/2 years.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Amonte signs with the Flames for $3.6 million/2 years.
I also heard a rumor that McCarty signed a two year deal with the Flames as well.

[Joe Canadian]

Amonte signs with the Flames for $3.6 million/2 years.
There's Gelinas' replacement...

[Joe Canadian]

Rumors: Leafs sign Lindros & Allison...

[Karim]

McCarty is a heavy rumour. None of the on-line sites have verified the Amonte signing which was broken/confirmed by local media.

[Karim]

Gelinas got $1.8 or $1.9 million/2 years.

[Karim]

Stillman to Carolina for $5.25 million/3 years.
Zhitnik to the Island for 4 years.

[sachmo71]

Demitra for 4.5 million...what a crazy offseason!
Too bad about Hatcher, I guess. I wonder if the Stars actually did offer him something. Maybe he's forgiven Hitchcock?

[Karim]

Detroit radio saying McCarty signed for $2.2 million/2 years with Calgary. No local or on-line confirmation yet.

[Karim]

Martin Straka and Marek Malik sign with the Rangers. No terms yet. They've also re-signed Weekes.

[Draft Dodger]

talk about the dam bursting...

[Simms]

Several Dallas radio stations reporting Modano has re-signed. Apparently supported by this: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/080305dnsponewmodano.35a26a5e.html

[Maple Leafs]

The Stars offer is a total of $17.5 million or an average of $3.5 million per season. Modano said there still is an offer from Boston for four years and $20 million.So Mike Modano is worth less than Bobby Holik? Whu?

[Honolulu_Blue]

So Mike Modano is worth less than Bobby Holik? Whu?
Almost everyone is worth less than Bobby Holik. It's been that way for years! No reason some stupid new-fangled CBA should change that.

[Simms]

Eklund-fueled rumours:

- Habs in discussions for Forsberg
- Khabibulin to Chicago ("90% done")
- Allison to Toronto ("definite"; no surprise)
- Panthers pushing for Pronger (also not really new news)
- Boston going after Leetch

[Karim]

Dave Scatchard to Boston for 4 years.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Karim is ENFUEGO!!!

[Karim]

Karim is ENFUEGO!!!
I don't know what that means but if it's good, I'm that! http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/cool.gif

[Karim]

Flames press conference tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. for, as Sutter said, "two players out east", playing coy as usual.

HB, can McCarty play LW?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Flames press conference tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. for, as Sutter said, "two players out east", playing coy as usual.

HB, can McCarty play LW?
Well, he typically played on the right in Detroit. I don't think I ever remember him playing LW, but I am sure he could do it in a pinch.

It will be odd to see McCarty in another sweater. Just so many great moments and memories about the guy. He epitomizes hockey in Detroit. He will be good to have during your EIGHT games against the Forces of Darkness(tm). He plays very well against them. He likes to beat on their less reputable players. Score OT goals on them. Even recorded his only NHL hattrick against them.

[JeffR]

Flames press conference tomorrow at 2:30 p.m. for, as Sutter said, "two players out east", playing coy as usual.

HB, can McCarty play LW?

Amonte and McCarty, I guess.

Don't think McCarty's ever played on the left, but I seem to remember Chuck Kobasew being on that side before, so maybe he's the one to move over.

[JeffR]

Sportsnet just announced McCarty in Calgary for $1.6M over 2 years.

[Karim]

Amonte - Langkow - Iginla ???
Simon - Wiemer - McCarty ???

Amonte played for Darryl Sutter in Chicago so that probably helped.

[JeffR]

I'm surprised at the length of these deals. 4-5 year contracts for guys in their middle 30's. I think some teams, the Flyers in particular, are painting themselves into a corner a few years down the road. Their young guys will want bigger deals while these worn-out (by that point) veterans making 3+ million will still be around. Clarke even gave Mike Rathje, who's no better than a #3 defenseman, a no-trade clause in his 5-year deal. Some GM's need a reminder that this isn't the NFL and those are guaranteed contracts.

[RPI-Fan]

Stillman to Carolina for $5.25 million/3 years.
Zhitnik to the Island for 4 years.

YES! We did something! Our first free agent move in three (real) offseasons!!!

Also, Straka is a FABULOUS pick-up for the Rangers -- great player for the "new" NHL.

[Johnny93g]

I like the Stillman addition, and the Amonte addition......dont like the Straka addition. I think Straka is done, and is probably overpaid too....

[Draft Dodger]

I like the Stillman addition, and the Amonte addition......dont like the Straka addition. I think Straka is done, and is probably overpaid too....

yep, Straka's done no matter what NHL this is

[Johnny93g]

yep, Straka's done no matter what NHL this is

DD, we seem to be agreeing alot these days

[Draft Dodger]

DD, we seem to be agreeing alot these days

I know. scary scary stuff.

[General Mike]

Come on Lou, do something :(

[Booj]

Out of all the guys the Habs were rumored to be in the running for, only Aucoin has signed... I'm not worried.... yet.

[Simms]

Eklund says Marty Lapointe to Ottawa -- "4 years, 2.1". Not sure if that's 2.1 total, or 2.1 per ... but I haven't seen it confirmed anywhere else yet, at any rate.

[Maple Leafs]

Eklund says Marty Lapointe to Ottawa -- "4 years, 2.1". Not sure if that's 2.1 total, or 2.1 per ... but I haven't seen it confirmed anywhere else yet, at any rate.
Seriously, could we get all these reporter types to standardize on a format for reporting contracts?

(If it's 2.1 total, Muckler is a genius.)

[sterlingice]

so, if my math is right...

Hatcher signed a 5 year deal for $6.5 Million.
He played...er, rehabbed one season at that price.
Last year didn't happen.
New salary is 4.94 million, of which he has 3 years left.
2/3 buyout is 3.31 million * 3, or $9.9 Million.

so, basically, the Wings paid $16.4 million for the 15 regular season and 12 postseason games Hatcher played. For that $16.4 million, they got 0 goals, 5 assists, 23 penalty minutes and 30 shots on net. Hatcher was a +4.

Neat
Beautiful post :D

SI

[TazFTW]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=132175

Report:Modano inks 5-year deal with Stars

http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20050802/modano_5093.jpg
TSN.ca Staff



8/2/2005 10:16:08 PM

After speculation that he may be on the move to another city, it appears that Mike Modano (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/player_bio.asp?player_id=1610) will remain - and most likely finish his career - with the Dallas Stars.

According to RDS.ca, Modano signed a five-year deal to remain with the same organization that drafted him in 1988. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

On Monday, reports indicated that Modano would sign with one of three teams that were courting the forward's services - the Boston Bruins, Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins.

Drafted by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1st round (1st overall), Modano has collected 458 goals and 1106 points in 1101 career games.



http://www.dvdtalk.com/forum/images/smiles/banana.gif

[sterlingice]

The return of Osgood. Yes. Well, I can't see that ending any other way than badly, even though I think he was a fine (adequate) goalie and wasn't to blame for the Wings playoff collapses between '99-'01.
Well, on that front, both can be true. Osgood was adequate (read: 15th best goalie in the NHL, give or take) but not good enough to win a Stanley Cup by himself ala Roy, Brodeur, etc. That said, he wasn't the one who only scored about a goal a game while losing playoff series.

SI

[sterlingice]

Yes. Given the new schedule, they can look forward to getting beaten by the Red Wings on a more relevently consistent basis. :D
I'd be willing to bet that we have a close to .500 record against you over the past ~7 years, so I'd shut your yap

SI

[TazFTW]

yep, Straka's done no matter what NHL this is
Well the good news for the Rangers then is it is only a 1 year deal. Maybe it is a "we see if you still have it" deal.

Rangers are still trying to court Forsberg and Naslund (seems they come in a tandem).

[sterlingice]

Tuomo Ruutu
Mark Bell
Kyle Calder
Steve McCarthy
Brent Seabrooke
David Bolland
Cam Barker

Decent young players that could be helped out with a few FA aquisitions. They need a goalie though...
(remember these responses are chronological so I haven't gotten to the stupid Aucoin signing)

I disagree 100% about the goalie comment. Thibault is stellar when he stays healthy. I guess that's a big caveat, but they have bigger holes to fill than between the pipes. I've gone from completely disliking Thibault to begrudgingly respecting him to feeling he's a really nice #1 goalie that all but a few teams would probably like to have. Of course no one can predict how players will come off the down time but, when healthy, he's a rock.

SI

[Honolulu_Blue]

Well, on that front, both can be true. Osgood was adequate (read: 15th best goalie in the NHL, give or take) but not good enough to win a Stanley Cup by himself ala Roy, Brodeur, etc. That said, he wasn't the one who only scored about a goal a game while losing playoff series.

SI I think he was a fine (adequate) goalie and wasn't to blame for the Wings playoff collapses between '99-'01. Agreed.

[Blade]

Oilers trade for Pronger

TSN.ca Staff

8/3/2005 1:00:57 AM

ST. LOUIS - St. Louis Blues Senior Vice President & General Manager Larry Pleau announced the club has traded defenceman Chris Pronger to the Edmonton Oilers for defencemen Eric Brewer, Doug Lynch and Jeff Woywitka.

Pronger, 30, won the Norris Trophy in 2000 and is one of the league's most decorated defencemen. He's played for Canada's last two entries in the Winter Olympics.

After missing most of the 2002-2003 season due to a serious wrist injury, Pronger rebounded to have a solid campaign in 2003, 2004, scoring 54 points in 80 games.

Brewer, 26, has played six seasons in the National Hockey League, including the last four with Edmonton while totaling 113 points in 404 games. He averaged 24:38 of ice time per game to lead the Oilers in 2003-04 and led Edmonton defensemen in scoring with 29 points while earning a spot in the 2003 NHL All-Star Game. The Vernon, B.C., native has also represented Team Canada while capturing a gold medal at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah and winning the championship of the World Cup of Hockey 2004.

"Eric Brewer has been a premier defenseman in the National Hockey League for the past several seasons and we are very excited about the talents he brings to the Blues," said Pleau. "We are also adding two skilled younger defensemen who are clearly up-and-coming players at this level. We're looking forward to having all three of these players in our lineup together one day in the future."



Lynch, 22, made his NHL debut with Edmonton in 2003-04 while appearing in two games. He completed his second season with the Oilers organization in 2004-05 while skating for the Edmonton Road Runners of the American Hockey League. This past season the 6'3'', 214 lbs. defenceman appeared in his 100th career AHL game and recorded his 100th PIM. In 2003-04 while playing with the Toronto Road Runners, prior to the team's move to Edmonton, Lynch was named to the AHL All-Rookie Team and played in the 2004 AHL All-Star Game.

Woywitka, 21, has played the past two seasons in the AHL while splitting time in 2003-04 between the Philadelphia Phantoms and the Toronto Road Runners. The Vermilion, Alberta native played in a combined 82 games that season while notching 28 points on four goals and 24 assists. In 2004-05 the 6-3, 215-pound defenseman was the only member of the Edmonton Road Runners to play in all 80 games, including his 100th career AHL contest. He recorded five-multiple-point games last season. Woywitka was taken by the Philadelphia Flyers in the first round, 27th overall, in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft during his four-year tenure with the Red Deer Rebels of the Western Hockey League.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=132273

All I can say is...

:eek:

[JeffR]

Wow, Pronger in Edmonton. Wouldn't have seen that before the new CBA.

A Vancouver radio station is reporting Naslund will re-sign with the Canucks tomorrow.

[klayman]

http://tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=132273

All I can say is...

:eek:
I guess that means the Oilers are not chasing Niedermayer anymore? Unless he's going to be the #1 center we so desperately need.

[Travis]

Lowe made a great move here. I wish it could have been Jason Smith in the deal instead of Brewer, but oh well. Pronger is a name that will definitely help in the effort to attract top tier free agents to Edmonton.

Though really, I wouldn't be all that sad to see the Oilers tie up some money in Niedermayer. It'd give us a 1-6 set of defensemen that would be as good if not better than any in the league and a great pair of guys to help the youngsters (Bergeron and Semenov) develop. Throw in one big time forward and the team would be looking pretty complete at that point, and I'm not 100% but I think financially it wouldn't be unreasonable to add two more guys in that price range (and I think it would make more sense than trying to add a #1 and #2 center).

It won't happen that way but would our powerplay ever get a kick in the right direction adding that pair of defensemen.

[chrisj]

Has anyone heard what Pronger signed for after being traded? I've heard $5.5 over 5, but I'm not sure if that's close to official or just people talking.

[sterlingice]

Trade Toronto and Nashville and it'd work. Also, you can up the bloodsport quotient by moving Colorado into the Norris, especially if the new NHL is going to place emphasis on division rivalries.

So, it'd be a Norris Division of Detroit, Toronto, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Colorado, Minnesota and St. Louis. Feel the love.
Oh man, that'd be pretty all over.

SI

[sterlingice]

Latest from Eklund (still needs to be confirmed from one acutally reliable source) Aucoin signed with Chicago at $4 million a year for four years (need to confirm). I think that's a pretty good deal for Chicago. Aucoin is a few years younger than Zubov/Foote. He can play like 57 minutes a night. He's physical, can kill penalties, and has a big shot from the point. I like this signing.
Seriously? You liked this deal for the Hawks (or as a Wings fan ;) )? I thought it was way overpaying for a guy not in the same league as the other two, tho he is a bit younger. I figured Aucoin was worth 2.5, maybe 3 to the right team but 4M for 4 seemed too much.

SI

[bbor]

Damn...am i the only one to think giving up Brewer and Woywitka is too much for Pronger?I really like Brewer...and if the NHL is going to be free flowing i like him even more.Pronger is an obstruction type defenceman who will have to change his game in the "new" NHL.

Has anyone seen or heard from JFJ?

If he waits any longer to sign anyone all he is gonna get is Robert Riechel.

[TazFTW]

Several Dallas radio stations reporting Modano has re-signed. Apparently supported by this: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/080305dnsponewmodano.35a26a5e.html
Just noticed that at the bottom of this article, the Stars have signed Martin Skoula.

[JeffR]

Damn...am i the only one to think giving up Brewer and Woywitka is too much for Pronger?I really like Brewer...and if the NHL is going to be free flowing i like him even more.Pronger is an obstruction type defenceman who will have to change his game in the "new" NHL.

Brewer was probably gone in two years when he hit 28, and he's been getting an increasing amount of criticism for the way his development seems to have leveled off. Pronger has apparently signed a five-year deal, and he gives the Oilers' D a better offensive presence than they'd get from Brewer and a better physical one than they would from Woywitka and/or Lynch.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Seriously? You liked this deal for the Hawks (or as a Wings fan ;) )? I thought it was way overpaying for a guy not in the same league as the other two, tho he is a bit younger. I figured Aucoin was worth 2.5, maybe 3 to the right team but 4M for 4 seemed too much.

SI
I like the deal for the Hawks. I actually think Aucoin is more valuable than Zubov and Hatcher. I just don't think he's gotten the recognition he deserves because he was exiled to Long Island oh these many years (sorry RPI). The guy is a work horse. I think he played more minutes than any player (or close to it) back in 03-04. He's got a great, heavy shot, kills penalties, he does it all. While $4 million may be a bit high, I still think this is a move in the right direction. He's a very good 1-2 defenseman.

Perhaps I like Aucoin too much.

[henry296]

Has anyone seen or heard from JFJ?

If he waits any longer to sign anyone all he is gonna get is Robert Riechel.

Same with Craig Patrick. I would have like Aucoin in Pittsburgh since I don't think they would be able to get Niedermayer or Rafalski. I think Rafalski is their top priority now.

[Draft Dodger]

Naslund stays with the Nucks.
3 * $6 Million

[Simms]

Has anyone heard what Pronger signed for after being traded? I've heard $5.5 over 5, but I'm not sure if that's close to official or just people talking.
5 years, $6.25 mil each, per TSN.

[Draft Dodger]

interesting that there is like NO word on Forsberg.

that silence, and the fact that Naslund stayed in Vancouver makes me very, very hopeful

[Johnny93g]

Has anyone seen or heard from JFJ?

If he waits any longer to sign anyone all he is gonna get is Robert Riechel.

Whats the rush, im pretty happy he hasnt really paid anyone who signed so far that kind of money....With the exception of Demitra, Amonte, and Stillman. Everyone else seems to be overpaid, and for long term deals. If we wait, alot of other teams cap space will be gone, and their will be some bargains out there. Remember, we did get Jeff O'neal, ist not like he doesnt count

[Honolulu_Blue]

Has anyone seen or heard from JFJ?

Apparently Eklund is reporting that JFJ and Kenny Holland were on a fishing trip together just off of Prince Edward Island.

[Karim]

Oilers trade for Pronger
F*&^!

[Johnny93g]

F*&^!
Maybe your Flames can find a time machine and get the Amonte from 5 years ago, to battle Pronger

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wings fans are fretting like mad at the moment. First, they all want the Wings to add some toughness. They are worried that losing McCarty and Hatcher leaves a void. I can't remember the last pure "tough guy" that played regularly for the Wings. Stu Grimson maybe? Still, it may happen. They do have Daryl Bootland and Ryan Barnes down on the farm if need be.

Anyway, after signing Yzerman the Wings have about $12 million left within the cap and they need to sign about 10 or so players. That works out to an average of $1.2 million per guy. Now, you take into account that a good portion of that $12 million will have to go to Zetterberg and Datsyuk (if they sign at all, BIG question marks about that), that leaves pretty much peanuts for the rest.

I think it could be safe to expect contract talks between the Wings and Datsyuk and Zetterberg to be VERY slow and VERY difficult. The Wings not likely to haul in any big name guys (eg, Khabibuhlin).

Even if you assume the Wings can bring Datsyuk and Zetterberg into the fold, the line-up as it stands has holes bigger than a bunch of "complimentary" players will likely be able to fill.

Times they are a changin'

[Ksyrup]

In a way, I'm glad they took a season off, because the teams are going to look so different this year that the year off makes it easier to deal with. It's like they started a new league and redrafted teams.

[TazFTW]

Roto has a blurb from the Calgary Sun about Iginla not signing with the Flames. His agents are saying he has not signed a deal.



Red Wings made an offer to Chris Chelios.

[Johnny93g]

An example of how Toronto media talking out of their ass

JFJ runing Leafs (http://torontosun.canoe.ca/Sports/Hockey/2005/08/03/1157523-sun.html)

GM ruining LeafsSo far, Ferguson out to lunch in new NHL
By STEVE SIMMONS




JOHN FERGUSON hasn't looked so cool with how he has handled some of the Maple Leafs' affairs. (Michael Peake, SUN files)
TWO DAYS into the brave new hockey world and already John Ferguson's reputation is taking a pounding.

What, players and agents are wondering, is the general manager of the Maple Leafs doing?

The answers, however varied, are not encouraging.

Ferguson's clumsy handling of negotiations with Gary Roberts and Joe Nieuwendyk -- where he attempted to have close friend Roberts undercut close friend Nieuwendyk -- sent a cryptic message to those within the industry. And then, to follow that up with a desperation offer to Nieuwendyk, after first trying an end run on him, only demonstrated his own inexperience in deal making.

Players talk. Word gets around fast. The Leafs have suddenly become an exit ramp instead of a destination. Those who play for the team and those who want to play for the team now wonder amongst themselves about the lack of buyouts, about free-agent qualifying offers, about a team that appears to be heading nowhere.

There were 57 messages on Roberts' cellular phone on Monday, almost of all them from players around the NHL. Not coincidentally, Adam Foote, hoping to play for the Leafs, signed a long-term contract in Columbus, where no one grows up dreaming of playing for the Blue Jackets.

Just last week, board chairman Larry Tanenbaum described the Leafs as the "No. 1 franchise in the National Hockey League." Today, we might demand a recount, as the No. 1 franchise is finding itself forced to dine out on other people's table scraps.

The way Ferguson has positioned this team in the post-lockout NHL has one wondering exactly why Pat Quinn was replaced as general manager in the first place.

Ferguson insisted the Leafs would be competitive this coming season. He has not wavered from that stance. But how is that going to be possible?

Ferguson has said he had a plan heading into the re-establishment of the NHL, but no plan is evident. And the notion that he is clearing cap room to take a run at younger free agents a year from now makes nice logic if: a) you believe it; b) you think players such as Vinny Lecavalier, Joe Thornton and Jarome Iginla won't be signed long term by then; c) he has the foresight and long-term confidence to write-off an entire season and deal with the fall-out from that.

The largest problem for the Leafs is how little money they have and how the player market -- post lockout -- hasn't corrected itself as much as many expected it to. Conventional wisdom was there would be a significant drop in player contract values in the new economic world.

So far, that hasn't been the case.

Quality defenceman such as Foote, Adrian Aucoin, Derian Hatcher and Mike Rathje have all signed in the $3-million to $4-million range per season. That's more money than even some optimistic of agents were banking on.

Yesterday, quality forwards but not star players such as Glen Murray, Bobby Holik and Pavol Demitra all signed contracts for more than $4 million a season. Which is out of the Leafs' price range because of the way they've bungled their cap situation.

With only a maximum of $9 million left to spend -- and remember, the Leafs and every team have to leave some room available in order to make moves during the season -- Ferguson has the ability to sign one reasonably priced player and not much more than that.

So he will gamble on Jason Allison, who hasn't played a full season in four years and he will hope. And he likely will gamble on Eric Lindros, who he can afford because Lindros missed 100 days of hockey last time there was a season and qualifies for performance bonuses and he will hope.

The No. 1 team in hockey, built on gambling, hoping and inexperience.

A year ago, the Leafs had Nieuwendyk and Roberts and Alexander Mogilny and Owen Nolan and Brian Leetch and Tie Domi -- all of them real pros -- on a team that wasn't considered good enough.

How is John Ferguson going to fix that now?

[Maple Leafs]

Gonchar gets $25M over five years from... the Pens?

[TazFTW]

dola (ack, can't I get a dola! :p )

From Sportsnet.ca


<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=534 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top rowSpan=2><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 align=left border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=240 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><!-- end CAPTION box --></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD rowSpan=2>http://www.sportsnet.ca/images/shim.gif </TD><TD vAlign=top><!-- begin HEADLINE STORY COPY -->Pens ink Gonchar


Sportsnet has learned Sergei Gonchar has agreed to a five-year, $25 million deal with Pittsburgh and Jarome Iginla has agreed to a three-year, $21 million contract to remain a Flame.


</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[henry296]

Gonchar gets $25M over five years from... the Pens?

Outstanding singing by the Penguins. Even better than Rafalski.

Lemieux just brought in another partner and they expected the payroll to be about 31 million. Even after signing Crosby, Malkin and Lemieux, they estimated that they would have $10 million left to spend. Even after signing Gonchar have have some room to add some complimentary parts to help the Penalty Kill and 3rd line.

One of their key needs was a top notch defenseman and I think Gonchar fits the bill. He key be the QB on the Power play and anchor a good defense.

A quick look a the Pens rosters:

First Line: Lemieux-Crosby-Recchi
Second Line: Malone-Malkin-Morozov (if he comes back from Russia)

Plus Milan Kraft and Konstantin Koltsov who are solid NHLers.

I really see 5 quality NHL D-men now: Gonchar, Orpik, Tarnstrom, Jackman and rookie Ryan Whitney who was a top 5 draft pick.

The excitement in Pittsburgh hasn't been this high since the year of Lemiuex's return.

[Draft Dodger]

Gonchar gets $25M over five years from... the Pens?

one of the few blueliners signed so far actually worth the money he got.

[bbor]

Is'nt Malkin staying in Russia also?

[Karim]

Iginla signs for $21 million/3 years.

[TazFTW]

I think it would depend on if the NHL can get the Russia Federation to agree to the new IIHF agreement.

[henry296]

I think it would depend on if the NHL can get the Russia Federation to agree to the new IIHF agreement.

That's the key holdup now about Malkin playing in Pittsburgh this year. If the transfer agreement is in place, I would expect Malkin to be a Penguin. The CBA governs the size of base salary (which will not change if the offer is made in 2006) and I expect the Pens to include enough bonus' to entice him to come to the NHL.

[Blade]

Damn...am i the only one to think giving up Brewer and Woywitka is too much for Pronger?I really like Brewer...and if the NHL is going to be free flowing i like him even more.Pronger is an obstruction type defenceman who will have to change his game in the "new" NHL.

Has anyone seen or heard from JFJ?

If he waits any longer to sign anyone all he is gonna get is Robert Riechel.

I have to disagree with this somewhat...thought to preface this, I am a huge Pronger fan, so this may be a biased opinion.

Pronger isn't the skater that Brewer is, but Pronger has one of the best passes I have seen. He can make that long pass to start the attack, and that will be very crucial with the red line gone. Brewer just couldn't do that. He is a good moving defenseman who can join the attack, but I still think Pronger has more offensive upside, and he can log a ton of minutes.

[Johnny93g]

one of the few blueliners signed so far actually worth the money he got.

agreed, one of the best signings so far

[Simms]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?id=132307

Habs resign Kovalev.

[Karim]

Simms beat me to it.

[Karim]

I thought Alexei was going to Pittsburgh. So where is Peter the Great going to go?

[Johnny93g]

Ok, this Eklund guy, he has 4 players listed on his site, rumoured to be going places.....the post was made at 11:11am...with the Gonchar rumour being right

Maple Leafs beat him to the news here.....by 9 minutes....

It seems everything on the site is bs, except the stuff he posts after other outlets have broken the story

im just saying......

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ok, this Eklund guy, he has 4 players listed on his site, rumoured to be going places.....the post was made at 11:11am...with the Gonchar rumour being right

Maple Leafs beat him to the news here.....by 9 minutes....

It seems everything on the site is bs, except the stuff he posts after other outlets have broken the story

im just saying......
Yes. Eklund appears to be about 35% right, 40% of the time.

[Draft Dodger]

so Eklund IS just like DJ Hradek

[Draft Dodger]

agreed, one of the best signings so far

this is getting scary.

[bbor]

Is Ziggy a UFA?

If he is why is no one chasing him?

[Karim]

If anyone cares and has access to the Score, they're showing the Canucks press conference at 1:00 p.m. ET and the Flames press conference at 4:30 p.m. ET.

[Simms]

currently reading the It's BACK! The 2005-2006 NHL Season thread
lol

[Simms]

Is Ziggy a UFA?

If he is why is no one chasing him?
His is, and they are, just nobody's talking about it. He said in an article earlier this week (Sunday/Monday?) that he thought he'd end up with one of Toronto, Florida, or one other (Isles?). Haven't heard a peep since then though.

[bbor]

I'd like to see him here....i think he is highly underated playing for L.A.

[Johnny93g]

3 hours and no news.....grrrrr....

[TazFTW]

Canadians sign Mathieu Dandenault to a 4 yr deal worth $7 million.

[Johnny93g]

i guess i meant to say 3 hours and no news anyone cares about!!!

[TazFTW]

This just in. The Leafs will do nothing.

[TazFTW]

Fuck.

Report: Modano rejects deal with Stars

http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20050802/modano_5093.jpg
TSN.ca Staff



8/3/2005 3:28:34 PM

After speculation that he was on the verge of re-signing with the Dallas Stars, it now appears that the reverse is true.

The Dallas Morning News is reporting that Modano has rejected the Stars' latest bid to keep him in Dallas.

On Monday, reports indicated that Modano would sign with one of three teams that were courting the forward's services - the Boston Bruins, Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins.

It was then reported that Stars owner Tom Hicks believed Modano was on the verge of re-signing with the Stars, a move that would likely keep him in gold and green for the duration of his career.

Apparently, Modano has had second thoughts about the Stars offer and will go back to testing the market elsewhere.


<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 align=right border=0><!--drop width--><TBODY><TR height=8><TD></TD></TR><TR><TD><!-- Begin Ad --><SCRIPT type=text/javascript> if(!sops){if(p.sops){var sops=p.sops;}else{var sops="";}} if(dUnitBox==true){boxAd=true;} if(boxAd){if((!dUnitSky)||(dUnitBox)){place300x250();}} </SCRIPT><!--- End Ad ---></TD></TR><TR><TD> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Drafted by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1st round (1st overall), Modano has collected 458 goals and 1106 points in 1101 career games.

[Chubby]

Habs sign Satan according to CKAC radio

4 year deal

[Simms]

Non-Eklund rumours (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/hockey -- Detroit-based blogger who became the anti-Eklund during the lockout)

- Cujo close to joining Pittsburgh
- Canucks out of the Neidermayer sweepstakes. NJ, Calgary, and a mystery team remain

Un-linked trade report: Brent Sopel to the Isles for a conditional draft pick

[Karim]

Sopel to the Island for a conditional pick next year. Making room for Niedermayer? Forsberg?

http://www.newyorkislanders.com/pressbox/archive.asp?id=376

[Chubby]

Non-Eklund rumours (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/hockey -- Detroit-based blogger who became the anti-Eklund during the lockout)

- Cujo close to joining Pittsburgh
- Canucks out of the Neidermayer sweepstakes. NJ, Calgary, and a mystery team remain

Un-linked trade report: Brent Sopel to the Isles for a conditional draft pick
BUFFALO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (i can dream can't I?)

[Chubby]

Beat ya by two minutes again. :)
well I beat you on Satan so :p

[TazFTW]

I think it would depend on if the NHL can get the Russia Federation to agree to the new IIHF agreement.
Just read something on TSN that the Czech federation has also voted down the IIHF agreement.

[Simms]

Steven Walkom replaces Andy Van Hellemond as Director of Officiating

Stephen Walkom was hired Wednesday as NHL director of officiating. Walkom became an NHL official in 1990 and has been one of the league’s top referees for the last several years. He worked the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, the 2004 World Cup of Hockey and the 2002 and 2004 Stanley Cup finals.

“With the rule changes that the league has adopted for the upcoming season, we believe that Stephen is ideally suited to provide direction and guidance to our on-ice officials,” said Colin Campbell, the NHL’s director of hockey operations. “His judgment and professionalism on the ice, coupled with the respect he has earned as one of the top officials in the game, will be of great benefit in his transition to the officiating management ranks.”

[Maple Leafs]

As a Leafs fan, I think I want to buy a Habs jersey that says "Satan" on the back.

[Karim]

Boston signs Leetch.
http://www.bostonbruins.com/feature.asp

[TazFTW]

Boston signs Leetch.
http://www.bostonbruins.com/feature.asp

That is soooo wrong.

[sterlingice]

one of the few blueliners signed so far actually worth the money he got.
Just echoing everyone else- great signing for the Pens.

SI

[Simms]

[shameless plug]

Since this might be of interest to most of the folks in this thread, I thought I'd mention that the company I work for publishes a pretty in-depth fantasy hockey preview magazine every year. Because of the lockout, we didn't have enough time to do a print version this year (Canadian residents may be familiar with the newsstand version from previous years), but our online version will be out in mid-September, and we've started taking pre-registrations. It's free. No catches.

http://magazine.forecaster.ca/hk05/

You're also welcome to download the just-released Football magazine if you want to get an idea of what it's like: http://magazine.forecaster.ca/generic-fb-05/

[/shameless plug]

[henry296]

Non-Eklund rumours (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/hockey -- Detroit-based blogger who became the anti-Eklund during the lockout)

- Cujo close to joining Pittsburgh
- Canucks out of the Neidermayer sweepstakes. NJ, Calgary, and a mystery team remain

Un-linked trade report: Brent Sopel to the Isles for a conditional draft pick

Interesting about bringing in CuJo to support/backup/mentor Marc-Andre Fleury. Not sure I like that.

[Draft Dodger]

Non-Eklund rumours (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/hockey -- Detroit-based blogger who became the anti-Eklund during the lockout)

- Cujo close to joining Pittsburgh
- Canucks out of the Neidermayer sweepstakes. NJ, Calgary, and a mystery team remain

Un-linked trade report: Brent Sopel to the Isles for a conditional draft pick

why would Cujo go to Pittsburgh? or is he just going to make a career out of playing places where everyone in the stands wants someone else?

for that matter, why would Pittsburgh be looking to add a goalie like Joseph - isn't Fleury ready?

[henry296]

why would Cujo go to Pittsburgh? or is he just going to make a career out of playing places where everyone in the stands wants someone else?

for that matter, why would Pittsburgh be looking to add a goalie like Joseph - isn't Fleury ready?

Fleury very much had an up and down year in the AHL this past season and in fact was pulled as the starting goalie in the Calder Cup Playoffs. Perhaps they want to give him another year in the minors. That could be a way to save some cap space.

[Draft Dodger]

Boston signs Leetch.
http://www.bostonbruins.com/feature.asp

not that it's a big deal, but I wonder what number he'll wear? #2 (Eddie Shore) is retired and, well, Eddie is dead, making it hard for Leetch to pull a sleazy Jerry Rice move (not that he would)

[TazFTW]

Bryan Berard 2 yrs $4.5 million to Columbus

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?ID=132329

[Karim]

Berard signs with C-Bus. No link yet but more than one source is confirming it.

[Draft Dodger]

Fleury very much had an up and down year in the AHL this past season and in fact was pulled as the starting goalie in the Calder Cup Playoffs. Perhaps they want to give him another year in the minors. That could be a way to save some cap space.

I guess that makes sense, but I'm still more surprised from the Cujo perspective than the Penguin side of things.

[Karim]

Leopold re-signs with Calgary for $2.3 million/2 years.

[Draft Dodger]

Leopold re-signs with Calgary for $2.3 million/2 years.

and word on Kate?

[TazFTW]

That Kuklas site now has a blurb about the Canucks scheduling a press conference for 5PM EDT. They already had one earlier for Naslund.


[edit]They've now changed the time to 5:45.

[Simms]

re: Modano...

but NHL sources tell TSN that Boston and Chicago both have four year deals on the table worth in excess of $20 million.
The Stars had offered Modano a five year deal worth $17.5 million.
That is freaking insane (the Boston and Chicago part).

[riz]

Man...I never thought it would be this crazy. On the other hand, I knew the Rangers would do what they do best. Draft poorly and sign UFA's that leave me scratching my head. Straka may be okay if he stays healthy but Malik ? A big, soft, pokechecking defenseman...wasn't that role reserved for Poti already ? Maybe Sather has a master plan so cunning.....or not.

So many signings, still so many millions thrown around. Overall the talent seems to be spreading nicely around the league. Oh well....I'll go get my popcorn :D

[TazFTW]

Habs sign Satan according to CKAC radio

4 year dealKuklas is saying Satan is an Islander.


[edit]Confirmed.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?ID=132333&hubName=nhl

[Karim]

and word on Kate?
I figured he was a big enough name for those hanging around here. Maybe not...

[Simms]

'Nucks presser put off until 5:45 ET.

[TazFTW]

On the other hand, I knew the Rangers would do what they do best. Draft poorly and sign UFA's that leave me scratching my head. Straka may be okay if he stays healthy but Malik ? A big, soft, pokechecking defenseman...wasn't that role reserved for Poti already ? Maybe Sather has a master plan so cunning.....or not.

Rangers sign Martin Rucinsky. Rucinsky/Straka/Jagr, Czech line redux.

[sachmo71]

Rangers sign Martin Rucinsky. Rucinsky/Straka/Jagr, Czech line redux.


I think that's a pretty spooky line.

[riz]

Rangers sign Martin Rucinsky. Rucinsky/Straka/Jagr, Czech line redux.

Ahh...now it all falls into place :D Might be a decent line this year if they all stay healthy. Czechmates v2.0 ?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Kenny Holland LIVES!!

Matthieu Schneider signs a two year deal with the Wings.

[sterlingice]

re: Modano...


That is freaking insane (the Boston and Chicago part).
Please let him sign with Boston. I love watching Modano play but this is like those baseball contracts for pitchers that reach into when they're 38 and 39- they'll be dying to unload it in 2 years.

SI

[RPI-Fan]

GREAT day for the Isles. We get Satan, who we've coveted for 2.5 years, and Sopel who is Bryan Berard-lite.

Two very, very good signings. Yashin is a perfect fit, and adding Zhitnik and Sopel increases our defensive depth!

[TazFTW]

Saw this mentioned at a couple sites but not at the big boys (TSN, Sportsnet).


Islanders trade Michael Peca to the Oilers for a Mike York and a draft pick.

[RPI-Fan]

Boston signs Leetch.
http://www.bostonbruins.com/feature.asp

Boston WAY, WAY overpaid. Leetch will have a very bad year this year, I think.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Saw this mentioned at a couple sites but not at the big boys (TSN, Sportsnet).


Islanders trade Michael Peca to the Oilers for a Mike York and a draft pick.
TSN just confirmed.

[RPI-Fan]

Bryan Berard 2 yrs $4.5 million to Columbus

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story.asp?ID=132329

GREAT signing for Columbus, IMO.

[Blade]

TSN just confirmed.

Wow...the Oilers are really getting active...

[RPI-Fan]

Saw this mentioned at a couple sites but not at the big boys (TSN, Sportsnet).


Islanders trade Michael Peca to the Oilers for a Mike York and a draft pick.

WOW.

I think we have a monopoly on speedy young wingers now. Don't like this deal from an on-ice perspective, but financially, I understand that it was necessary. And it does get us back our 2nd rounder from the Sopel trade.

So basically, today we did:

-Sopel, Satan, and York (costing us an additional $2-3mil in cap space)

for:

-Peca

Two first-line wingers and a #3/4 D-man for a #2 centerman with a bad contract -- consider me happy!!!

[MikeVic]

I like the Oilers. :) I love this time in hockey. So much fun.

[RPI-Fan]

I wonder if the Peca trade is just making room for Palffy??? From my estimations, we only have about $8mil in cap space (but we've already qualified our RFA's and I'm estimating an average of $1mil each for them), so he would push us up above $35mil. However, if we do spend to the max we have one of the best top lines in the league! (Palffy/Yashin/Satan)

[TazFTW]

That Kuklas site now has a blurb about the Canucks scheduling a press conference for 5PM EDT. They already had one earlier for Naslund.


[edit]They've now changed the time to 5:45.update 5:57pm. Canucks talked about Sopel trade and said expect a dman coming to them in a trade shortly
What a tease.

[sterlingice]

Let me reiterate- this is just so freaking cool :D

SI

[riz]

Let me reiterate- this is just so freaking cool :D

SI

I hear ya :D

[RPI-Fan]

Eklund is saying Forsberg to the Flyers for Gagne!!!

[TazFTW]

I don't get that. Forsberg is an unrestricted FA.

[Chubby]

and we are all saying Ek got hacked in his chatroom...

[RPI-Fan]

The only reason maybe Forsberg is a trade, is that the Flyers have to dump salary to make room for him?

[Draft Dodger]

Eklund is saying Forsberg to the Flyers for Gagne!!!

*scratches head*
*removes Eklund's site from my favorites*

[Chubby]

and the rumor is for Gagne but that Gagne is traded away to clear cap room to sign Forsberg. I still think he got hacked

[RPI-Fan]

and the rumor is for Gagne but that Gagne is traded away to clear cap room to sign Forsberg. I still think he got hacked

Hahaha, that is ridiculous (him getting hacked). When he copy-pasted a CNN story and then deleted it, everyone in the chat claimed he got hacked (clearly he didn't since he never again mentioned it).

If you read his site, you do have to take it with just a grain of salt. As long as you do that, you can get some idea of what kind of teams are at least looking at certain players.

[Ajaxab]

Let me reiterate- this is just so freaking cool :D

SI

It's almost...almost enough to make me wish for a lockout every other year. Some people were saying they should just blow up the league and have a redraft. This is the closest thing to it. All of these transactions have been incredibly fun to watch.

[Draft Dodger]

The only reason maybe Forsberg is a trade, is that the Flyers have to dump salary to make room for him?

ah, I think I get it.
sign Forsberg, trade Gagne.

I was just thinking today that I'd probably by a Forsberg jersey depending on where he ends up. But there's no way in HELL I would ever wear a Flyers jersey.

btw, Forsberg to Philadelphia is funny in so many ways. They going to try to get Mike Ricci and Chris Simon too?

[Chubby]

unless Forsberg took $1mil he isn't going to be a Flyer

[Draft Dodger]

unless Forsberg took $1mil he isn't going to be a Flyer

I can cope with Forsberg going a lot of places, but not Philadelphia (and not the fucking Rangers either). PLEASE.

[Qwikshot]

ah, I think I get it.
sign Forsberg, trade Gagne.

I was just thinking today that I'd probably by a Forsberg jersey depending on where he ends up. But there's no way in HELL I would ever wear a Flyers jersey.

btw, Forsberg to Philadelphia is funny in so many ways. They going to try to get Mike Ricci and Chris Simon too?

Uh you do know Bob Clarke's penchant for reacquiring former Flyers don't you?

[riz]

I can cope with Forsberg going a lot of places, but not Philadelphia (and not the fucking Rangers either). PLEASE.

Sorry, we got the best swede out there signed already in Henrik Lundqvist :D No need for an injured, homesick Forsberg ;)

[Ryan S]

I have no doubt that Eklund has legit sources, but I expect many of them will be feeding him information which is designed to help their own causes

[Joe Canadian]

I'm a Leafs fan and the fact they've done nothing isn't bothering me... I'm loving that all the "small" teams are getting some big name guys, it's good for the game!!

[TazFTW]

I can cope with Forsberg going a lot of places, but not Philadelphia (and not the fucking Rangers either). PLEASE.
As a Ranger fan, I do not want to see Forsberg on the team. That's all due to him being my most hated player (maybe a close second to Bryan Marchment).

[TazFTW]

heh, now Ek has Roenick to LA to make room for Forsberg.

[Draft Dodger]

As a Ranger fan, I do not want to see Forsberg on the team. That's all due to him being my most hated player (maybe a close second to Bryan Marchment).

it's a plurality then. All two Ranger fans don't want him. Guess we'll keep him.

[Draft Dodger]

heh, now Ek has Roenick to LA to make room for Forsberg.

Roenick (like Modano) would be another good fit for the Kings.

[bbor]

Walkom head official????

God help us...there could only have been one choice that would have been worse.......eh ML?:D:D

[bbor]

New rumour from Ek site....the Leafs signed a new beer vendor....$6.50 an hour...PLUS TIPS!

Waiting for official confirmation.

[Johnny93g]

http://www.hockeynations.com/index.php?showtopic=15795&st=180

This guy seems to know what he's talking about....many predictions turned out right.....you need to register to read it, but its worth it

[Draft Dodger]

http://www.hockeynations.com/index.php?showtopic=15795&st=180

This guy seems to know what he's talking about....many predictions turned out right.....you need to register to read it, but its worth it

for the lazy, what's he saying?

[TazFTW]

TSN has Forsberg to the Flyers, 2 years $10.7 million

[Johnny93g]

he just said Roenick to LA to make room for Forsberg

[Draft Dodger]

I hate hockey

[klayman]

New rumour from Ek site....the Leafs signed a new beer vendor....$6.50 an hour...PLUS TIPS!

Waiting for official confirmation.
You laugh now, but when you are watching the Leafs lose night after night, you'll be thankful there's a extra beer vendor around.

And...you're supposed to tip beer vendors?!? No wonder my beer tastes like piss by the 3rd period.

[Draft Dodger]

I fucking hate hockey

[Draft Dodger]

fucking Flyers

[Draft Dodger]

fuck Bobby Clark
fuck him fuck him fuck him fuck him

[Draft Dodger]

fuck

[RPI-Fan]

And the people who say Eklund has no credibility are.. WHERE, now?

[Qwikshot]

WOOT!!!

[Draft Dodger]

fuck Eklund

[Qwikshot]

Hearing the Roenick AND Gagne would be traded to Kings to free up cap room...

[TazFTW]

http://www.hockeynations.com/index.php?showtopic=15795&st=180

This guy seems to know what he's talking about....many predictions turned out right.....you need to register to read it, but its worth it
This guy just said the Rangers are offering Niedermeyer the max.

[Draft Dodger]

fuck Roenick and Gagne

[Johnny93g]

fuck Roenick and Gagne

we agree again...fuck the flyers

[klayman]

I haven't seen DD this upset since that time Patrick Roy ripped down the bathroom door trying to get DD out of his house.

[TazFTW]

And like that, Roenick is traded to the Kings for draft picks.

[TazFTW]

And then this Code guy brings up Toronto talking to Boston about Thorton...

[bbor]

I like the deal.....Flyers are better with Roenick and Gagne rather than a broken down Forsberg who may go home after 1 season.

[Draft Dodger]

fuck the Kings

[ISiddiqui]

JEEZ, this is like a fantasy draft, but with real players and teams. It's ridiculous! Good fun though.

With the Devils would sign someone though :(.

[ISiddiqui]

ESPN reporting that Modano has turned down the Stars' latest offer:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2123609

[Honolulu_Blue]

fuck the Kings
:D

[Maple Leafs]

Good job by Eklund, breaking the story 15 minutes before it was announced.

Any word on Leetch to the Wings, Ek?

[Simms]

fucking Flyers
fuck Bobby Clark
fuck him fuck him fuck him fuck him
fuck
What he said.

[Honolulu_Blue]

fuck the Kings
It was the smart play, DD. Sacrificing Forsberg for Hejduk and Tanguay was a wise move by Lacroix. They are the future of the franchise. Like a surgeon, sometimes he must cut to heal...

[Honolulu_Blue]

I hear there is a rumor coming out of Vancouver that the Canucks have signed Hamrlik. No idea if there is any truth to it.

[Qwikshot]

Now it is being said Roenick isn't leaving the Flyers...

[Draft Dodger]

It was the smart play, DD. Sacrificing Forsberg for Hejduk and Tanguay was a wise move by Lacroix. They are the future of the franchise. Like a surgeon, sometimes he must cut to heal...

I agree (although I would have rather seen Blake go than Foppa).
still sucks to see him with the fucking Flyers.

Toronto, I could handle. Vancouver I could handle. Not Philadelphia, and not for a measly $5 M