It's Here! The 2006-2007 NHL Season Thread

[Pumpy Tudors]

BLAH BLAH BLAH BORING DEVILS BLAH BLAH BLAH ZZZZZZZZZZ

This is new and exciting.

[Pyser]

BLAH BLAH BLAH BORING DEVILS BLAH BLAH BLAH ZZZZZZZZZZ

This is new and exciting.

they keep changing the rules, and somehow, our boys keep winning.

maybe its because, i dont know....the devils are a good team??

[Pumpy Tudors]

they keep changing the rules, and somehow, our boys keep winning.

maybe its because, i dont know....the devils are a good team??
What? The Devils? A good team? No way! They just bore their opponents to sleep and slide one puck past the snoozing goalie! The Devils win every game 1-0, man!! Haven't you been watching??!??!?????

[Honolulu_Blue]

Speaking of good vs. boring hockey.

Was there ever a better regular season NHL game than the March 26, 1997 Wings vs. Avalanche game? I can't imagine there ever was.

- You had two of the top teams in the NHL from a talent-level, including the defending Stanley Cup Champions

- The game included some of the most talented players in the game at the time, including Sakic, Forsberg, Deadmarsh, Roy, Yzerman, Fedorov, Shanahan, Lidstrom, Konstantinov, and Larionov. So, easily 7 or 8 future Hall of Famers at the very least (likely a few more).

- You had 11 goals in the game, including a sensational goal in overtime to win it.

- You had 18 fighting majors.

Here's the box score:

-------------------------------
Colorado 1 3 1 0--5
Detroit 0 3 2 1--6
-------------------------------



FIRST PERIOD -- Scoring: 1, Colorado, Kamensky 24 (Forsberg), 3:29.
Penalties: Young, Col (interference), 1:20; Severyn, Col (fighting major),
4:45; Pushor, Det (fighting major), 4:45; Sakic, Col (interference), 5:12;
Corbet, Col (fighting major), 10:14; Maltby, Det (fighting major), 10:14;
Draper, Det (roughing), 10:14; Forsberg, Col (roughing), 18:22; Roy, Col
(roughing, fighting major), 18:22; Larionov, Det (roughing), 18:22;
Vernon, Det (roughing, fighting major), 18:22; Mccarty, Det ( double
roughing minor), 18:22; Deadmarsh, Col (cross checking, fighting major),
18:37; Konstantinov, Det (fighting major), 18:37.


SECOND PERIOD -- Scoring: 2, Detroit, Fedorov 29 (Murphy, Yzerman),
0:35. 3, Colorado, Kamensky 25 (power play) (Jones, Ozolinsh), 1:12. 4,
Detroit, Lapointe 13 (Kozlov), 3:08. 5, Colorado, Corbet 10 (Yelle), 6:20.
6, Colorado, Deadmarsh 32 (Lefebvre, Lacroix), 13:34. 7, Detroit, Lidstrom
15 (power play) (Yzerman), 19:40. Penalties: Foote, Col (fighting major),
0:04; Shanahan, Det (fighting major), 0:04; Lapointe, Det (roughing),
0:56; Severyn, Col (fighting major, game misconduct), 3:34; Keane, Col
(fighting major), 3:34; Ward, Det (fighting major, game misconduct), 3:34;
Holmstrom, Det (fighting major), 3:34; Deadmarsh, Col (fighting major),
7:24; Mccarty, Det (roughing, fighting major), 7:24; Krupp, Col (fighting
major), 11:26; Pushor, Det (fighting major), 11:26; Deadmarsh, Col
(interference), 14:47; Young, Col (hooking), 18:38.


THIRD PERIOD -- Scoring: 8, Colorado, Kamensky 26 (Yelle, Lemieux),
1:11. 9, Detroit, Lapointe 14 (Fedorov, Murphy), 8:27. 10, Detroit,
Shanahan 46 (Larionov, Pushor), 9:03. Penalties: Ozolinsh, Col (cross
checking, roughing), 6:26; Maltby, Det (roughing), 6:26; Pushor, Det
(holding), 14:40; Ozolinsh, Col (tripping), 16:07.


OVERTIME -- Scoring: 11, Detroit, Mccarty 19 (Shanahan, Larionov), 0:39.


Shots on goal:
------------------------------------
Colorado 6 7 6 0--19
Detroit 8 23 15 1--47
------------------------------------

Power-play Conversions: Col - 1 of 6, Det - 1 of 7. Goalies: Colorado,
Roy (47 shots, 41 saves; record: 36-14-7). Detroit, Vernon (19, 14;
record: 12-9-6). A:19,983. Referee: P Devorski. Linesmen: Scapinello,
Schachte.

What more could one ever want out of a hockey game? Great skill, lots of offensive, and a ton of physical play.

I've watched the game about 6-7 times, though not in a while. I know they have the game in its entirety on some Red Wings' DVD set. I should pick that up, but I always feel sad watching Konstantinov play. I've never really quite gotten over that.

[Pyser]

meanwhile..

The Wild send Pascal Dupuis to the Rangers in exchange for Adam Hall.

The Hurricanes have acquired centre Josef Vasicek from the Nashville Predators in exchange for centre Eric Belanger.

[Maple Leafs]

Was there ever a better regular season NHL game than the March 26, 1997 Wings vs. Avalanche game?
The NHL Network showed the Top 10 Wings/Avs games recently. It was depressing, because it reminded you how good hockey used to be.

(Although I need to ask, how did McCarty stay in that game? He pummells Lemieux and even knees him in the head, and gets four minutes? Today, he'd be suspended for nine years.)

[Maple Leafs]

Speaking of old time hockey, here's the classic Leeman/Savard confrontation:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=8pTQk3XE9Xw

Note the sucker punch at 1:10, as well as John Kordic(!) preventing a bench-clearing brawl with the horse collar on Wendel.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The NHL Network showed the Top 10 Wings/Avs games recently. It was depressing, because it reminded you how good hockey used to be.

(Although I need to ask, how did McCarty stay in that game? He pummells Lemieux and even knees him in the head, and gets four minutes? Today, he'd be suspended for nine years.)

There was never an adequate explanation for that. Ever. Crawford went nuts (rightly so) over the (non)call.

I guess because Lemieux didn't drop the gloves and just turtled it technically wasn't a "fight" in the Devorski's eyes, since, I guess, a fight would technically require two participants. Also, perhaps Devorski felt like Lemieux had it comming and thought justice was being served.

I think I'm getting that Adrian Dater book on the Wings/Avs rivalry on Sunday. Perhaps there's an explanation in there.

[Draft Dodger]

There was never an adequate explanation for that. Ever. Crawford went nuts (rightly so) over the (non)call.

I guess because Lemieux didn't drop the gloves and just turtled it technically wasn't a "fight" in the Devorski's eyes, since, I guess, a fight would technically require two participants. Also, perhaps Devorski felt like Lemieux had it comming and thought just was being served.

I think I'm getting that Adrian Dater book on the Wings/Avs rivalry on Sunday. Perhaps there's an explanation in there.

let me know how the Dater book is. been thinking about checking it out myself.

and yeah, I miss that sort of hockey.

[Maple Leafs]

This one's for Pumpy:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=OttU1ATmEHU

And one for bsak:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=_mZ0-Hb37QE

[Maple Leafs]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_mZ0-Hb37QE
Three things to note here:

- I've never seen the Philly footage of this before, only the Toronto clip. That closeup of Hextall going into a sprint is awesome. I miss guys who were certifiably nuts.

- Nice job by the Philly announcers claiming victory for Hextall. You know, if you ignore the giant gaping wound on his face, he did pretty well.

- At 1:30 of the clip, I'm loving how Kordic looks around for Clark, sees him coming, gets himself set, and still winds up flat on his back curled into a ball within a half second of Wendel arriving on the scene. Good effort, Danny.

[Chief Rum]

(Although I need to ask, how did McCarty stay in that game? He pummells Lemieux and even knees him in the head, and gets four minutes? Today, he'd be suspended for nine years.)

Dude, it was Lemieux. If I saw him walking down the street right now, I wouldn't be able to resist doing the same thing.

[Maple Leafs]

Dude, it was Lemieux. If I saw him walking down the street right now, I wouldn't be able to resist doing the same thing.
No argument there... just wondering how he managed to not get kicked out.

[Pumpy Tudors]

This one's for Pumpy:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=OttU1ATmEHU
I absolutely love how Terry Gregson is talking to both goalies right in the middle of the fight.

Also, all this "boring Devils" talk had me about ready to switch my allegiance to Calgary or Nashville or Florida or something, but seeing Sean Burke in that Devils uniform has put me back in my place.

I'm a Devils fan for life.

[Draft Dodger]

- At 1:30 of the clip, I'm loving how Kordic looks around for Clark, sees him coming, gets himself set, and still winds up flat on his back curled into a ball within a half second of Wendel arriving on the scene. Good effort, Danny.

you have Kordic on the brain. It was Dan Lacroix. Dan Kordic was in the clip. Odd that both Kordics were featured today...

[Pyser]

ill take all the boring devils talk here.

its pretty much the only place in my life i can talk hockey with people.

sad.

[Pumpy Tudors]

ill take all the boring devils talk here.

its pretty much the only place in my life i can talk hockey with people.

sad.
"

[NoSkillz]

ill take all the boring devils talk here.

its pretty much the only place in my life i can talk hockey with people.

sad.

Come on up and join us in Canada! Plenty of room up here for all hockey fans!

The priests at Sunday Mass start things off by talking about the game on Hockey Night in Canada the night before. :D

[Tekneek]

(seriously, i hear what you are saying, and i agree it can be boring...but somehow when its a power running game and sound defense in football, its just "good job guys". the devils arent in the business of entertaining. they are in the business of winning.)

Must be why they are one of the teams that were at risk of losing money this season. They don't qualify for subsidies because of the size of their market. No wonder Lou has to try and get by with just 20 players on the roster to save every penny. It shows that winning alone won't pack an arena. People want to be excited.

[Pyser]

the devils fan base is growing, and the new arena next year (the Rock!) should help.

the 2 biggest problems are 1) the rangers fans, and 2) ticket prices are insanely high at that arena. which is why youll see more people in the upper tier than the lower.


in other news:

In a deal between first-place teams, the Atlanta Thrashers traded defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski to the Nashville Predators for center Eric Belanger on Saturday.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I see Pyser already beat me to it, but here's more details (interestingly, the team actually emailed this to their mailing list subscribers a few minutes ago, the first time I can recall them ever sending out something on a trade)

Atlanta, GA (Feb. 10, 2007) -- The Atlanta Thrashers have acquired forward Eric Belanger (pictured right) from the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski, according to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell.

Belanger, 29, earned 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in 56 games with Carolina this season before being traded to Nashville in exchange for Josef Vasicek on Feb. 9, 2007. The 6-0, 190-pound center won 53.6% of his face-offs (362-for-676) with the Hurricanes.

The native of Sherbrooke, Quebec, has collected 170 points (71 goals, 99 assists) and 183 penalty minutes in 379 NHL games with Los Angeles and Carolina. Belanger was acquired by the Hurricanes along with Tim Gleason from the Kings in exchange for Oleg Tverdovsky and Jack Johnson on Sept. 29, 2006, after setting career bests with 17 goals, five power-play tallies and 37 points with Los Angeles in 2005-06.

Belanger, who recorded at least 30 points for three consecutive NHL seasons from 2002-04 and 2005-06, set a career high with 20 assists in 2003-04 and matched it in 2005-06. He was originally selected by Los Angeles in the fourth round, 96th overall, in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft.

Hamel, 29, has registered seven points (four goals, three assists) in 43 games with the Senators this season. The 6-1, 200-pound right wing has posted a plus or even rating in 40 out of 43 games, and is plus four for the season.

The native of Lachute, Quebec, has earned 30 points (18 goals, 12 assists) and 77 penalty minutes in 182 NHL games with Buffalo and Ottawa. Hamel, who was selected by St. Louis in the sixth round, 153rd overall, in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft, set career highs with eight goals and 11 assists with Buffalo in 2000-01.

Vishnevski, 26, registered 12 points (three goals, nine assists) and 31 penalty minutes in 52 games with the Thrashers this season. The 6-2, 200-pound defenseman has recorded 60 points (14 goals, 46 assists) and 434 penalty minutes in 468 NHL games with Anaheim and Atlanta. He was acquired by the Thrashers in exchange for forward Karl Stewart, a second-round selection in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft and a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft on Aug. 17, 2007.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Looks like the Thrashers deal was a combination of not caring to pay Vish to sit on the bench for the rest of the season and looking to replace Steve Rucchin who may be out for the rest of the year after suffering a concussion the other night.

Right now I'm sort of on the same wavelength as one poster on the Thrasher boards who asked "how many 3rd line centers do we really need?"

Also, just to pass along what strikes me as an odd rumor, someone mentioned that the Predators msg boards are speculating about them flipping Vishnevski to Carolina for Scott Walker.

[Tekneek]

I see Pyser already beat me to it, but here's more details (interestingly, the team actually emailed this to their mailing list subscribers a few minutes ago, the first time I can recall them ever sending out something on a trade)

Were you on an email list when they traded Audette for Piros and some picks? An email came out pretty quick on that day, as I recall, at least as quick as any notices come out when trades are made with 10 minutes left before the deadline.

[Draft Dodger]

does Rucchin have previous concussion problems? because that wasn't much of a blow that he took (easy for me to say, I know).

[sabotai]

Haven't really had much chance to watch much hockey this year. Saw the FLyers game tonight. Anyone have any thoughts on Jeff Carter? The guy is fast and has a great wristshot. Looks like he could develop into a very good player for the Flyers.

[Karim]

Flames pick up Brad Stuart, Wayne Primeau and a draft pick for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Flames pick up Brad Stuart, Wayne Primeau and a draft pick for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew.
Wayne Primeau? They still make that?

[Tekneek]

does Rucchin have previous concussion problems? because that wasn't much of a blow that he took (easy for me to say, I know).

Not that it would be the same, but I didn't take much of a blow to get my "mild concussion" back in August and I still have not earned a clean bill of health from my neurologist. They are all different and have different effects on different people. It's why some people can have 15 concussions and still bounce back easily and others can have a few and be forced to retire.

[Tekneek]

the devils fan base is growing, and the new arena next year (the Rock!) should help.

The fan base is growing? So, all this pride about 3 cups didn't grow the fan base already? Winning obviously isn't everything.

[Dr. Sak]

And one for bsak:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=_mZ0-Hb37QE

In typical Leafs fashion they like to jump a guy 3 on 1.

This one's for you Maple Leafs

http://youtube.com/watch?v=zjIlAhy2EtE

And speaking about knockouts how about Ronald Petrovicky knocking out Kris Newbury?

And it was nice to see Hal Gill pick on someone his own size when he tried to scuffle with Colby Armstrong.

[Honolulu_Blue]

In typical Leafs fashion they like to jump a guy 3 on 1.

This one's for you Maple Leafs

http://youtube.com/watch?v=zjIlAhy2EtE

And speaking about knockouts how about Ronald Petrovicky knocking out Kris Newbury?

And it was nice to see Hal Gill pick on someone his own size when he tried to scuffle with Colby Armstrong.

I saw the Petrovicky thing last night. Who knew? I hope Newbury is all right.

[Maple Leafs]

Interesting moment in last night's Sens/Habs game, as Ray Emery tomoahawks a guy in the face with his stick. Will be interesting to see how/if the league handles it. Any forward who did that would be suspended for a half dozen games at least, but goalies usually get some leeway inside their own crease.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_k4nIkW2Ck

[Fidatelo]

Goalies or not that was brutal, and I think a half-dozen games is hardly enough. I'd go for 15-20.

[Pyser]

The fan base is growing? So, all this pride about 3 cups didn't grow the fan base already? Winning obviously isn't everything.

yes. growing. they moved a team into an area where 3 established teams already had die hard fans.

[Tekneek]

yes. growing. they moved a team into an area where 3 established teams already had die hard fans.

They've been there since 1982. It was about 12-13 years in when they won the first Cup. No doubt they've had the most success of the three teams there over the past dozen years. Again, it proves my point that winning alone isn't good enough.

[Dr. Sak]

Any word on Madden's injury?

[Maple Leafs]

Goalies or not that was brutal, and I think a half-dozen games is hardly enough. I'd go for 15-20.
Don't be silly. Remember, Senators are allowed to cleave guys in the face with their sticks without being suspended. It's the Hossa Rule.

[Maple Leafs]

And it was nice to see Hal Gill pick on someone his own size when he tried to scuffle with Colby Armstrong.
If Gill is only allowed to fight guys his own size, he's basically limited to Chara and Boogard. And either one of those guys would kill him. Pound for pound, Hal Gill is probably the worst fighter in the league now that Barnaby is blind.

[Pyser]

Any word on Madden's injury?

big ol gash under his right eye. eye swelled shut, and yet he finished the game, with a tissue in his nostril to stop it from bleeding too.

manly.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Lost (sort of) in the Pens recent 11-0-2 run...

For the first time since 1980-81 season, a team has 3 players, age 20 or under, with 20+ goals--Malkin (27) Crosby (25) and Staal (22).

Last team to accomplish this-- Edmonton Oilers, with Gretzky, Messier , Kurri and Glenn Anderson all breaking 20 that season, in which all four players were age 19 or 20.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The fire sale in Phoenix has begun...

The Coyotes send Ladislav Nagy to Dallas for Matthias Tjarnqvist and a first round in pick in the 2007 draft.

I guess this likely means that the Coyotes will put forth the effort to re-sign Doan long term. If I had to choose one (Doan) over the other (Nagy), I'd keep Doan.

Edit: Hrmm... I found this info on another board and just tried to follow thei link. There was none. I haven't seen this anywhere else. Will need to confirm.

[sachmo71]

The fire sale in Phoenix has begun...

The Coyotes send Ladislav Nagy to Dallas for Matthias Tjarnqvist and a first round in pick in the 2007 draft.

I guess this likely means that the Coyotes will put forth the effort to re-sign Doan long term. If I had to choose one (Doan) over the other (Nagy), I'd keep Doan.

Edit: Hrmm... I found this info on another board and just tried to follow thei link. There was none. I haven't seen this anywhere else. Will need to confirm.

If so, I like it.

[Draft Dodger]

true
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/article.jsp?content=20070212_115029_5000

[Honolulu_Blue]

true
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/article.jsp?content=20070212_115029_5000

Dude! They even ripped off my "Fire Sale" language. I should send an angry letter.

[Honolulu_Blue]

let me know how the Dater book is. been thinking about checking it out myself.

and yeah, I miss that sort of hockey.

I did end up getting the book on Sunday.

I only had time to read about a chapter and a half, but so far, so good. I will give a more complete/detailed report when I finish.

The transcript of what Crawford was screaming at Bowman during Game 4 of the 1997 Western Conference finals is pretty funny. He just had a complete meltdown at that moment.

Devorski admits that he blew the call. Apparently one of the linesmen kept telling him that he had to throw McCarty out of the game, but with everything going on at the time Devorski said he didn't see it all and didn't make the call. Devorski told McCarty that he "owed him a game" and after McCarty scored the OT goal Devorski told McCarty that he was "killing him", becuase he knew he should have thrown McCarty out.

[Maple Leafs]

Goalies or not that was brutal, and I think a half-dozen games is hardly enough. I'd go for 15-20.
Emery has been suspended for three games.

Semi-related thought: if he's a backup goalie, does he get more? Would it be like pitchers in baseball getting longer suspensions since they don't play as often?

[Pyser]

The Coyotes send Ladislav Nagy to Dallas for Matthias Tjarnqvist and a first round in pick in the 2007 draft.

boy, that seems cheap to me.

[Honolulu_Blue]

A first round pick (that Tjarnqvist guy was on waivers a short while ago) for a top-level player who will be an UFA after this year (Nagy) seems to be the asking price. That's pretty consistent with what it was last year. Edmonton shipped a first round pick to Minnesota for Roloson. I think the Capitals got a first rounder for Witt (from Nashville).

There's been some local speculation about the Wings making a move for Forsberg and then possibly making another move to ship Lang out and bring in a winger who can score. I'd be all for something like that. Obviously such a deal would be complicated and involve many moving parts. That said, totally upgrading the second line by replacing Lang with Forsberg and adding another top six winger sounds too good to be true.

Now if they could just find a way to include Lilja in a deal. . .

[Dr. Sak]

Dude! They even ripped off my "Fire Sale" language. I should send an angry letter.

I did that once to ESPN.com for something they took word for word off my blog and it got me no where but a bunch of denying.

[DeToxRox]

A first round pick (that Tjarnqvist guy was on waivers a short while ago) for a top-level player who will be an UFA after this year (Nagy) seems to be the asking price. That's pretty consistent with what it was last year. Edmonton shipped a first round pick to Minnesota for Roloson. I think the Capitals got a first rounder for Witt (from Nashville).

There's been some local speculation about the Wings making a move for Forsberg and then possibly making another move to ship Lang out and bring in a winger who can score. I'd be all for something like that. Obviously such a deal would be complicated and involve many moving parts. That said, totally upgrading the second line by replacing Lang with Forsberg and adding another top six winger sounds too good to be true.

Now if they could just find a way to include Lilja in a deal. . .

Here, here.

The only times I ever notice Lilja is when he falls behind the opposing teams net.

In random news, Jimmy Howard is in net tonight completing the Griffins Double Shot.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Two Penguins notes of interest:

Maple Leafs winger Kris Newbury is expected to be out about a week after taking a fierce beating from Penguins right winger Ronald Petrovicky in a third-period fight. The two had a 10-minute phone conversation Sunday. "I told him it wasn't his fault," Newbury told reporters yesterday. "He felt bad about what happened."


And....Jordan Staal's performance Saturday night--youngest player in NHL history with a hat trick.

[Draft Dodger]

And....Jordan Staal's performance Saturday night--youngest player in NHL history with a hat trick.

I can hear Don Cherry now...

[Honolulu_Blue]

Two Penguins notes of interest:



And....Jordan Staal's performance Saturday night--youngest player in NHL history with a hat trick.

Good to hear about Newbury. I'm glad to hear he was fine.

That Petrovicky thing threw me for a loop. I had no idea that that Ronald Petrovicky wasn't Robert Petrovicky until yesterday.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Wings got their asses handed to them last night. MacDonlad struggled, but still the Flyers ran roughshod over them. The play book is out on this team. Play physical, play mean, and you can totally throw them off their game. Datsyuk wilts under that kind of pressure. Zetterberg tries to fight through it, but he's only one guy.

If I were a coach and had to play the Wings I would just have my team get in touch with their inner-goon and start putting the body on them. Who are they going to send out? Draper? A 60 year old Chris Chelios? Andreas "Turtle" Lilja? I mean seriously.

All in all, I think last night's game will be good for the Wings. Hopefully Holland was watching closely and realizes that the team badly lacks a physical element. They have some how been under the illusion that this team is grittier than the last few years, but that's simply not the case.

Lilja cross-checks Gagne and Gauthier jumps him. If Gauthier had done the same to Zetterberg, no one on the Wings would do anything. Not good.

[Draft Dodger]

welcome to my world, HB.

[Dr. Sak]

It is amazing how dependent the Flyers are on Forsberg. Last night they said they have not won a game when he wasn't in the lineup. I know they are the worst team in hockey right now but that stat is still a little eye opening.

That being said I really like the play of the Flyers the last 10 games. I was one who thought they needed a full fledged fire sale, but I really think they just need to stay healthy. They aren't as bad as their record shows when healthy so hopefully they can use this last part of the season to build a foundation for next season.

[Draft Dodger]

the Flyers are a MUCH better team than their record shows

[DeToxRox]

Wings need to attempt to make the following deals:

Acquire Guerin & Mayers from St. Louis

or

Doan & Laraques from the Coyotes.

[Pyser]

The Red Wings remain interested in Peter Forsberg, but the price is now at least two first-round picks and a prospect, which is putting off potential suitors.
-- Detroit Free Press

[Suburban Rhythm]

Another Pens note, from the Department of Really Sweet Stats--

With Mark Eaton in the lineup, heading into tonight's game vs. the Blackhawks, the Penguins are 15-3-1.

They started the season 7-3, before he was injured on a (cheap) hit by Jon Cheechoo, 11/6/2006. He returned after the All-Star break, with the Pens 8-0-1 since that point.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Coyotes send Ladislav Nagy to Dallas for Matthias Tjarnqvist and a first round in pick in the 2007 draft.

I guess this likely means that the Coyotes will put forth the effort to re-sign Doan long term. If I had to choose one (Doan) over the other (Nagy), I'd keep Doan.

You are correct, sir.

Why thank you, sir.

The Coyotes just re-signed Doan to a long term, 5 year/$23 million deal. That averages out to about $4.6 million a year. I think that's a fair price for a power forward of Doan's caliber.

[Draft Dodger]

personally, I think 4.6 is a bit of a bargain

[Honolulu_Blue]

personally, I think 4.6 is a bit of a bargain

Agreed. I thought it was a huge bargain until I noticed he's only ever scored more than 30 goals once in his career, which I found surprising. Still, he's only 30 years old and brings a lot more than just goals to the table.

[Draft Dodger]

I think I'm also thinking about how cap friendly it will be in 3 or 4 years, when you could potentially be looking at a 50-55 million cap and top salaries pushing $10 million.

[Jonathan Ezarik]

Another win for the Pens. 12-0-2 in their current streak. Now if they could just get the arena deal finalized, I could fully enjoy this playoff run.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Another win for the Pens. 12-0-2 in their current streak. Now if they could just get the arena deal finalized, I could fully enjoy this playoff run.


Yeah, but this Crosby kid sucks. What, 8 games without a goal now? And ANOTHER weak attempt on the SO? Bring back Johnny Leclair...

[Draft Dodger]

Forsberg a last-minute scratch tonight after taking warmups. sounds like a deal is imminent, and most indications are Nashville...

[Draft Dodger]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=196374&hubname=

[DeToxRox]

Love Upshall but this is a steal.

They got to keep Weber, that's huge.

[Draft Dodger]

Sportsnet is saying that it's official.

nice deal for both teams, but kudos to Nashville. they give up a ton for a UFA...but they have boatloads of talent. 10 1st round picks on the roster (before AND after the trade) and they didn't really give up any of their key youngsters (Weber, Radulov)

[Honolulu_Blue]

I like Upshall, but he's really just a 3rd/4th line energy type guy. Ryan Parent is supposed to be quite the prospect (at least he was for me in Eastisde Hockey). Plus a first and a third?

Hrmmm....

I guess it could be worth the gamble. Forsberg is an immense talent, as good as there is in the NHL when healthy, but he's rarely healthy and he's in the last year of his contract.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Sportsnet is saying that it's official.

nice deal for both teams, but kudos to Nashville. they give up a ton for a UFA...but they have boatloads of talent. 10 1st round picks on the roster (before AND after the trade) and they didn't really give up any of their key youngsters (Weber, Radulov)

That's a good point. The Predators are stocked and really only had to deal one player off their current roster. Draft picks are overrated anyway.

This firmly shifts the balance of power in the West to the Predators.

It's your move, Mr. Holland. . .

[Draft Dodger]

was reading some speculation about how the Wings would be perfect destinations for Bill Guerin or Keith Tkachuk...but the Blues would be reluctant to help out a division rival. Considering how much I detest Guerin, I think Detroit would be a PERFECT destination.

[Dr. Sak]

Actually I am pretty happy with what they got in return. How much can you expect to get for a guy that still has foot problems and will be a free agent at the end of the year. It is basically a 30 game rental.

[Fidatelo]

I think Philly did awesome on this one. They lose Forsberg for 30 games of a season that is going nowhere regardless, and in return the receive a good 3rd line guy, a highly regarded defensive prospect, and 2 picks.

That said, this is not necessarily a bad move on Nashville's part either, as he could really push them over the top.

[bhlloy]

A win-win for both teams really. The Predators have their best shot ever at winning a cup, and if Forsberg can stay healthy then he's an unbelievable asset in the playoffs.

The Flyers get a good young prospect and 2 picks for somebody whose heart probably wasn't going to be in it for the last 30 games of a hopeless season.

I wouldn't have minded seeing Forsberg in a Ducks uniform, that is for sure.

[Coder]

Interesting.. for what it's worth, I've always been rather amused by Eklund and his "rumours"... but he called this one.. not as in "Forsberg might end up in Nashville", but "Forsberg looks set for Nashville, and I'm hearing Ryan Parent is going to the Flyers."... This was 5-6 hours before the trade happened too.

I'd say this is a good deal for both teams, AND for Forsberg, who gets to play in the playoffs for what might be his final season.

[Draft Dodger]

even Avalanche fans get a win - Nashville comes to Colorado on April 7th.

speaking of the Avs, Colorado's slim playoff hopes got a boost last night with a huge win over the Flames, 7-5. Most encouraging was the fact that, if not for a few lucky breaks for the Flames, it wouldn't have been that close. Colorado played a good hockey game, for 60 minutes no less. How's this for a weird schedule? The Avs played last night in Calgary, and again Saturday in Calgary (first time they've played consecutive road games against the same opponent), then Sunday in Vancouver and then host the Flames on Tuesday. Avs play 3 out of 4 games against the Flames. Even odder, the Flames don't have a game in between - they play 3 in a row against Colorado.

Joe Sakic became the 17th NHL player to score 600 goals. He's 1 goal behind a former teammate. Any guesses who that is?

Joe Nieuwendyk was the next active player on the list, but he's retired. Any guesses who is next on the active list? He too has a reasonable shot at 600.

[Dr. Sak]

Interesting.. for what it's worth, I've always been rather amused by Eklund and his "rumours"... but he called this one.. not as in "Forsberg might end up in Nashville", but "Forsberg looks set for Nashville, and I'm hearing Ryan Parent is going to the Flyers."... This was 5-6 hours before the trade happened too.

you mean this guy
hxxp://img1.putfile.com/thumb/2/4522583297.jpg

[Draft Dodger]

Eklund? Sam Kinison?

[Dr. Sak]

Eklund. There is a thread on the hfboards about it.

[Draft Dodger]

Eklund. There is a thread on the hfboards about it.

what an amazing thread!

http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=345783 (for anyone else interested)

[Coder]

what an amazing thread!

http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=345783 (for anyone else interested)

Before I've even read that thread, once again, I've never taken him seriously.. just pointing out that he did call the Nashville-deal before I went to bed, and Forsberg was traded while I was sleeping..

[Suburban Rhythm]

Joe Sakic became the 17th NHL player to score 600 goals. He's 1 goal behind a former teammate. Any guesses who that is?

Joe Nieuwendyk was the next active player on the list, but he's retired. Any guesses who is next on the active list? He too has a reasonable shot at 600.

Question #1-- I believe it is Kurri. Wasn't he in Colorado for 1 year, or maybe 1/2 year?

Question #2-- Is it another former teammate? Teemu? Or Sundin? Both of those guys I think are over 500, and can't think of anyone else.

[Draft Dodger]

nice. yes, Kurri is at 601 and Teemu is 520 something. Sundin is just behind him. Modano is just under 500. These 3 are probably the only guys in the top 50 with a chance at 600.

[Draft Dodger]

sadly, HF deleted the thread.

[Suburban Rhythm]

nice. yes, Kurri is at 601 and Teemu is 520 something. Sundin is just behind him. Modano is just under 500. These 3 are probably the only guys in the top 50 with a chance at 600.

How old is Modano now? After the past few seasons, I have to think his shot at 600 is slim to none.

[Draft Dodger]

Modano turns 37 this summer. I don't expect him to hit it, but he has a better shot than, say, Pierre Turgeon. :)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Recchi has said he'd like to play another two years or so....if he gets to play next to Crosby that entire time, he MIGHT just make it...

[Dr. Sak]

sadly, HF deleted the thread.

not before thousands saved that picture on their hard drive

[Coder]

Weird that HF would do that... did Eklund threaten with legal action mayhaps?

[Karim]

Last night's game was the first time I've had questions about Playfair. Down a goal with the goalie out, he puts out Primeau, Amonte, Lombardi, Regehr and Stuart. Meanwhile, Tanguay sees two shifts in the last 10 minutes, Huselius is benched for about 15 minutes, and the both of them are on the bench, along with Iginla. Not to mention Hamrlik and Phaneuf were also watching Regehr handle the puck like a hand grenade. Huselius is the hottest Flame but it's *this* game that Playfair decides to send a message and despite Tanguay setting up three goals, he's also watching.

Oh yeah, and Amonte sucks.

[Draft Dodger]

I don't know Playfair well. But I wonder if, perhaps, he valued message over a chance to tie. They get pissed off, win the next two against Colorado, and they are sitting pretty in the playoff race.

[Pyser]

from the ny post:

The Flyers accepted Nashville's offer for Peter Forsberg rather than an equally intriguing one from San Jose, Slap Shots has been told. According to sources, the Sharks were willing to send netminder Evegni Nabokov to goaltending-needy Philadelphia as part of a package that included young defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic.

[Draft Dodger]

they turned down Nabokov? sucks to be them.

[Pyser]

apparently, the flyers think they can sign biron or gigeure instead this offseason for free. still odd to me though.

[Dr. Sak]

I am actually glad they turned down Nabokov. They need defensemen more than they need a goalie. They aren't going to be contending next year so by that time they will have Hatchers and Rathje's assine contracts off the books and maybe they can get a goalie that way.

[klayman]

Oilers trade Marc Andre Bergeon to the Islanders for Denis Grebeshkov, who will spend the rest of the season in Russia. Obviously a trade for the future, which must mean Lowe has given up on making the playoffs this season?

[Fidatelo]

Philly will most assuredly destroy any goalie they get, so they may as well trade Forsberg for players and then get the victim-du-jour out of free agency as it really doesn't matter who it is.

[Dr. Sak]

Philly will most assuredly destroy any goalie they get, so they may as well trade Forsberg for players and then get the victim-du-jour out of free agency as it really doesn't matter who it is.

I prefer to call it the The Curse (Ghost) of Pelle Lindberg

[Fidatelo]

You could call it that, or you could just call it by it's real name: Bobby Clarke

[Honolulu_Blue]

Oilers trade Marc Andre Bergeon to the Islanders for Denis Grebeshkov, who will spend the rest of the season in Russia. Obviously a trade for the future, which must mean Lowe has given up on making the playoffs this season?

Sort of seems like it, doesn't it? While Marc Andre certainly wasn't getting the job done as an "offensive defenseman", general consensus has been that what the Oilers are really lacking is an offensive defensmen, someone to make that first past out of the zone. Given the (alleged) talent up front, the Oilers should be much better than they have been offensively, many have blamed their lack of firepower on the lack of a defensemen who can move the puck (e.g., Pronger, Spacek, etc.). There was a lot of talk of the Oilers trying to get Eric Brewer or Brad Stuart. Shipping Bergeon off doesn't seem to really help their problem, then again he really didn't seem part of the solution either.

[Dr. Sak]

You could call it that, or you could just call it by it's real name: Bobby Clarke

I agree with you. I wasn't alive when the Flyers won their cups so I am not an apologist for Clarke, unlike my dad who will defend him till his last breath.

[RPI-Fan]

Oilers trade Marc Andre Bergeon to the Islanders for Denis Grebeshkov, who will spend the rest of the season in Russia. Obviously a trade for the future, which must mean Lowe has given up on making the playoffs this season?

I'm happy with the trade, for the Isles. Grebs is a MAYBE for the AHL next year, so he has a long way to go. Not very impressive numbers in the RSL.

Bergeron could turn out to be awful, but if he gets hot he could be a very useful D-man. We have absolutely nothing in terms of offensive d-men, and badly need someone to bring some variety to the powerplay.

[Draft Dodger]

Grebeshkov now has half as many trades (3) as he does points (6) in his NHL career.

[Karim]

I'm happy with the trade, for the Isles.

Have you seen MAB play? He looked ok last year paired up with Pronger but I really think this is addition by subtraction for the Oilers. He makes so many mistakes and doesn't have the size to deal with forwards in front of the net.

I think this is a good move for the Oilers even if Grebeshkov never returns to the NHL.

[Dr. Sak]

Marc Andre Bergeon just picked up an assist in the 1st period. Isle score on the PP for the first time in 4 games.

[RPI-Fan]

Have you seen MAB play? He looked ok last year paired up with Pronger but I really think this is addition by subtraction for the Oilers. He makes so many mistakes and doesn't have the size to deal with forwards in front of the net.

I think this is a good move for the Oilers even if Grebeshkov never returns to the NHL.

Like I said, if he gets hot, we have a nice 3rd or 4th defenseman. If he plays like he did the first half of the year, how are we any worse off?

We also got a 2008 3rd rounder in the deal...

[Pumpy Tudors]

At this point of the thread, I realize that the trading deadline is my favorite part of the EHM series of games (RIP).

[Honolulu_Blue]

At this point of the thread, I realize that the trading deadline is my favorite part of the EHM series of games (RIP).

Agreed. In fact, trade deadline day is one of my favorite days of the year. It's up there with Thanksgiving, Christmas, the NFL draft. . .

[Pyser]

thats the day i hit 'refresh' the most

[RPI-Fan]

Big win today!

No MAB disasters so far, although he came close a couple times. Did have a pair of assists and hit the post. Overall he's just about what I expected, and I'll take it. Watching RPI play all year I'm used to bonehead defensive plays -- I'm happy that he can at least balance them with some 'Wow!' offensive plays.

This is a nice way to start off the week...

[Jonathan Ezarik]

Yeah, it seems like playing four games in six days caught up with the Pens. They looked really sluggish the last two periods. And MAF has got to be more consistent.

Can they play the Islanders every game so Malone will score 200 goals a season?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yeah, it seems like playing four games in six days caught up with the Pens. They looked really sluggish the last two periods. And MAF has got to be more consistent.

Can they play the Islanders every game so Malone will score 200 goals a season?

Another wild stat--

Malone's hat trick --2nd of his career, other coming vs. the Isles in December-- was a new 'record' of sorts. He scored 45 seconds into the 1st period, 29 seconds into the 2nd period and 48 seconds into the 3rd period.

Unconfirmed, but I believe that is the first time a player scoring a hat trick has scored all 3 within the opening minute of each period.

[Pyser]

the devs-rangers just played their most entertaining game of the year for either team.

a 2-1 devs win that featured many hard hits, avery in a knock-down pushing fight with a maskless brodeur, a 3rd period game winning goal, janssen yelling at lundqvist from the bench taunting him, and lundqvist yelling back, and a game 7 playoff atmosphere (which is usually a cliche, but this game was MADNESS).

the absolute best part? 2 fold:

1-its the last time the devs and rangers will play in the meadowlands ever, so it was an awesome send-off, and even better

2-its the first half of a home and home. 2nd half is thursday. record it, people. 2 fights should be pretty much guaranteed, and some much needed hitting and hate :)

[watravaler]

The Blackhawks will probably suck, that is all.:(

Of course...

[klayman]

Sort of seems like it, doesn't it? While Marc Andre certainly wasn't getting the job done as an "offensive defenseman", general consensus has been that what the Oilers are really lacking is an offensive defensmen, someone to make that first past out of the zone. Given the (alleged) talent up front, the Oilers should be much better than they have been offensively, many have blamed their lack of firepower on the lack of a defensemen who can move the puck (e.g., Pronger, Spacek, etc.). There was a lot of talk of the Oilers trying to get Eric Brewer or Brad Stuart. Shipping Bergeon off doesn't seem to really help their problem, then again he really didn't seem part of the solution either.

Agreed. It seems to be a "seller" move. Unless of course they have a deal in place to get that top 2 defenceman. But I highly doubt that. I think Smyth is gone before Tuesday, hopefully MacT follows him at the end of the year.

[Travis]

Agreed. It seems to be a "seller" move. Unless of course they have a deal in place to get that top 2 defenceman. But I highly doubt that. I think Smyth is gone before Tuesday, hopefully MacT follows him at the end of the year.

I'll throw the bone out there that they may just feel that Gilbert has a better chance to be that first pass than Bergeron, even if they can't get a deal done to get a guy in here. Bergeron had lost his spot on the PP to Peterson (thanks MacT) and his minutes were going downhill. I like Bergeron and think he has all the tools to be a very good 3-4 (and second PP unit) guy on a lot of team, but the fans/coaches decided to run him out of town a long time ago.

We've got a game in hand and 5 games remaining against Minnesota, so there's still some light. I think Lowe is likely waiting to see how the next two games go. Take at least a point on Thursday and beat Minny on Friday we make a purchase, if not, well, at least Sykora helped his trade value out last night.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I wonder if Bergeron's play started to suffer from just trying to do too much. Last year the Oilers had Pronger, Spacek, and Tarnstrom, all defensemen who could move the puck to a varying degree. This year Bergeron was pretty much the only guy along the blueline with that skill set.

I agree, I think he's a decent 3-4 defensemen who should see some power-play time, but can't be relied upon to be "the" guy when it comes to offense from the blueline.

[Draft Dodger]

Agreed. It seems to be a "seller" move. Unless of course they have a deal in place to get that top 2 defenceman. But I highly doubt that. I think Smyth is gone before Tuesday, hopefully MacT follows him at the end of the year.

well be happy to take either/both

signed,
Colorado

[Karim]

Can anyone figure this out?

The Flames have the best home record and the second worst road record in the NHL. Last night's loss to Colorado was the sixth straight loss on the road.

The players are sick and tired of having to answer media questions, alway saying they weren't ready. How can you not be ready? You get paid millions to play 60 minutes, the coaches obviously get you ready at home, so what's the deal?

Everything is on the table to try and solve the problem - leadership, coaching, identity.

I don't think it will happen but there's some talk that if Sutter really feels the pieces are in place, maybe he should pull a New Jersey and replace Playfair before the playoffs.

[Travis]

I wonder if Bergeron's play started to suffer from just trying to do too much. Last year the Oilers had Pronger, Spacek, and Tarnstrom, all defensemen who could move the puck to a varying degree. This year Bergeron was pretty much the only guy along the blueline with that skill set.

I agree, I think he's a decent 3-4 defensemen who should see some power-play time, but can't be relied upon to be "the" guy when it comes to offense from the blueline.

That's pretty much it imho. Bergeron, right now, is best suited to be your blue line shooter on the first unit PP or a primary point guy on the second unit. 5 on 5 he has the skillset to be a second pairing guy, potentially first pairing if it ever *clicks* for him, and that's where our coaching staff failed. The biggest problem with the team this year (and definitely for Bergeron) was that MacTavish was trying to force players into predefined roles rather than moulding a system to fit the talents he has. Bergeron, right now, is not an outlet guy. He either skates the puck out of the zone, or should be asked to make the safe play under pressure. The problem is, our system has the wingers play high, so the fundamental pass along the boards repeatedly gets picked off because our wingers don't come deep enough to receive that pass. MacT wants his defense to make the first pass to the top of the circle or the blue line, not the faceoff dot or below.

Specifically, Bergeron would try the board pass, recover the puck, then look up the middle because the boards wouldn't work, it'd get picked off, he's now a goat. It was amplified here because of how Roloson got hurt in the Cup Finals last year, a play any and nearly all defensemen have made (one of my biggest pet peeves), it blew up in Bergeron's face because Roloson has a habit of butterflying with his leg outside the post, so impact didn't drive him into the net, but into the post causing the injury. Since that time, Bergeron has been the whipping boy to the local fans/media and was doomed to be driven out unless he was the second coming of Pronger this year.

Also marks the second year we had a defenseman win or place second in both hardest shot and fastest skater in the teams skills competition and not finish the year with the team (Bergeron this year, Alexei Semenov the prior year). Both were guys with all the physical tools, but our staff was unable to unlock/figure out a way to get them to think the game well. I hope both succeed in other places (though Semenov thus far hasn't made many strides).

Now the pressure is on Gilbert as they figure he's a better offensive option at this point (and we can only pray he replaces Toby Peterson on the powerplay).

Unfortunately, there's no way MacT isn't back next year, so for guys like Schremp, Pouliot, Jacques, Winchester, Smid, Gilbert, etc, it'll be another year of having their growth limited and potentially even capped.

::end rant apparently::

[Travis]

Can anyone figure this out?

The Flames have the best home record and the second worst road record in the NHL. Last night's loss to Colorado was the sixth straight loss on the road.

The players are sick and tired of having to answer media questions, alway saying they weren't ready. How can you not be ready? You get paid millions to play 60 minutes, the coaches obviously get you ready at home, so what's the deal?

Everything is on the table to try and solve the problem - leadership, coaching, identity.

I don't think it will happen but there's some talk that if Sutter really feels the pieces are in place, maybe he should pull a New Jersey and replace Playfair before the playoffs.

Dola: It's a longshot, but I was talking with a buddy today, and if (big if) Edmonton can take 4 of 5 from Minnesota down the stretch and Colorado plays well, there is a chance one or both replace Minny/Calgary in the playoffs. Not only would I love it (been dealing with a couple really annoying Calgary fans declaring the Flames dominance for the last month), but how amazing would it be for THE top home record to miss the playoffs.

Never mind that Calgary's window is closing once Kipper and Phaneuf have to be resigned, that'd be one heckuva stumble.

[Tekneek]

I can't make any sense of the trade. It almost seems like they had to pay the Islanders to take Bergeron. Grebeshkov is not a good take in the deal, especially having to give up a draft pick as well. Bergeron is easily a better player right now and maybe forever. It doesn't make any sense to me right now nor in the future.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Henrik Zetterberg is playing very, very, very good right now. He's easily been the best player in the NHL over the last month or so. It's been a treat to watch him play.

The Wings are in the midst of a really good stretch with pretty much all of their offense being generated by one line: Zetterberg, Datsyuk, and Holmstrom. The Wings really need to make a move to shore up a second line. I don't fancy their chances in the playoffs if they have to rely on one line to produce, especially given Datsyuk's last than stellar track record in the playoffs. Mikael Samuelsson coming back may help, but it wont be enough.

The prices being thrown around out there for the guys reported to be available it ridiculously high right now. The Wings will probably make a move regardless. It'd be silly for them not to try and make a run this year given how well Hasek and has played/held-up *knocks soundly on wood*.

[NoSkillz]

Awesome, AWESOME game in Buffalo tonight that I was lucky enough to see live, as the Amerks...errr...Sabres beat the Senators 6-5 in a shootout.

Innocent enough game until Chris Drury got split open on a controversial hit by Chris Neil. Ensuing faceoff sees a couple of Buffalo's thugs go after Heatley and Spezza, resulting in a full line brawl, including the goaltenders!!

Biron got destroyed by Ray Emery but then Andrew Peters comes in and says "pick on someone your own size" and THEY go at it!!!

Two fighting majors on the same SHIFT for Ray Emery. Both goalies kicked out...Peters kicked out...

Sick game too! No voice left! :)

Unfortunately, Buffalo has now lost an incredible SEVEN STARTERS in their last six games. It's essentially an AHL squad yet they still have taken 11 of their last 12 points and still are first overall in the NHL.

[Tekneek]

Regardless of what happened with Drury and Neil, I am VERY unimpressed with Peters going after Emery. He didn't do anything unfair to Biron. He simply beat him fairly and then tried to allow him to get back up, which Martin responded to by tripping Emery. Then Peters the Goon comes over trying to act like a knuckledragger from years gone by.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Awesome, AWESOME game in Buffalo tonight that I was lucky enough to see live, as the Amerks...errr...Sabres beat the Senators 6-5 in a shootout.

Innocent enough game until Chris Drury got split open on a controversial hit by Chris Neil. Ensuing faceoff sees a couple of Buffalo's thugs go after Heatley and Spezza, resulting in a full line brawl, including the goaltenders!!

Biron got destroyed by Ray Emery but then Andrew Peters comes in and says "pick on someone your own size" and THEY go at it!!!

Two fighting majors on the same SHIFT for Ray Emery. Both goalies kicked out...Peters kicked out...

Sick game too! No voice left! :)

Unfortunately, Buffalo has now lost an incredible SEVEN STARTERS in their last six games. It's essentially an AHL squad yet they still have taken 11 of their last 12 points and still are first overall in the NHL.

From what I've read, Murray and Ruff didn't have too many kind words for each other either. Interested to see what, if any, fines/penalties assessed to Ruff for lining up the goons--well one goon, Peters, and whoever else is left in Buffalo, Adam Mair??--to start the whole thing.

[Tekneek]

No doubt he sent them out there to start something against a line of forwards that was all skill for the Senators (Spezza, Heatley, and Comrie). Spezza turtled immediately, Heatley ran around like a girl, and Comrie was the smallest guy on the ice. The defensemen got involved, but they were outnumbered. I wish Peters had beat the shit out of Heatley instead of going after Emery. Ray Emery is obviously way tougher than Spezza AND Heatley. I give Comrie a little bit of a pass since he is so much smaller than all those other guys.

I've seen the hit on Drury now and my opinion is that it was just as clean as any of those big hits delivered by Scott Stevens over the years. I was never happy about those hits, but if you were the type of person who thought those were good then I don't know that you can say too much about this one.

[Maple Leafs]

Funny (and true) line by Bill Watters on Sportsnet: Andrew Peters is thrilled, this is the first fight he's won all year.

I'm still pretty shocked that no Senator came to Emery's aid when Peters came in. I know Emery might legitimately be their toughest player, but that's your starting goalie getting jumped by the other team's thug. How do you know get in there? I don't know whether some guys had already been escorted off, but there must have been someone.

I hate to say it, but this is almost a situation where if the guys on the ice won't do anything then somebody needs to come off the bench. You get 10 games, fine, but that's your meal ticket.

[Dr. Sak]

I'd pay money to see Lindy Ruff get his ass kicked.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I was bowling last night, but I saw clips of the Senators/Sabres brawl on one of the TVs in the place. I stopped bowling to scream "GOALIE FIGHT!!!" and then a few seconds later, they show Peters and Emery going at it, and I said, "Wait... that's not both goalies." I figured Biron had gotten his ass kicked and Emery was just looking for someone else to go after. Now, after reading more about it, Biron got his ass kicked and Peters went after Emery. Entertaining stuff, even in highlights. I'm sure it'll be up on YouTube any minute now.

I want to find more clips of it just to watch Heatley's involvement. That sounds hilarious.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Dola

Sure enough, it's all over YouTube right now.

Edit to add: Bwahahaha, Heatley and Spezza are hilarious in this. One of the Sabres starts shoving Heatley before the linesman even drops the puck. As soon as the puck drops, Heatley takes off. Absolutely beautiful. Also, Comrie looks like a little boy compared to all those bigger guys on the ice.

[Logan]

Regardless of what happened with Drury and Neil, I am VERY unimpressed with Peters going after Emery. He didn't do anything unfair to Biron. He simply beat him fairly and then tried to allow him to get back up, which Martin responded to by tripping Emery. Then Peters the Goon comes over trying to act like a knuckledragger from years gone by.

Agreed. Just because one goalie happens to be 5x the man as the other, doesn't mean it wasn't a fair fight. Goalies pair off...that's what happens. And like you said, he won the fight, and that was it. It's not like when Cloutier beat the shit out of Salo, and then continued to beat him (oblig. Youtube clip: http://youtube.com/watch?v=2oBvnUkEr4M).

The hit on Drury was dirty in the sense that it was definitely late, but there was no elbow like Ruff was claiming. And if Drury's helmet stayed on tight, this probably wouldn't have turned into a mess. And Murray should be fired for sending Spezza, Heatley, Comrie out there...talk about moronic.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I hadn't thought about Murray's stupidity in putting those forwards out there after the hit on Drury. Buffalo's got the last change, so who does he think Ruff is sending out there? Daniel Briere? Murray could've sent his toughest guys out there for the faceoff, and then you could've had a real 6-on-6 brawl out there.

I can only imagine what was going through Mike Comrie's mind when he took the ice for that faceoff. At least it looked like the Sabres pretty much left him alone. Poor guy. :)

[Draft Dodger]

that's the first thing that I thought of too. Spezza, Heatly and Comrie? that's stupider than stupid

[Draft Dodger]

that's the first thing that I thought of too. Spezza, Heatly and Comrie? that's stupider than stupid

[Maple Leafs]

Hmm, I had only seen clips, just saw the full footage on Youtube. I revise my opinion on two points:

- Emery and Biron were ready to square off again, so maybe there's some defence for Peters coming in. In the highlights it looked like the fight was done and Peters jut jumped in, but they may have been ready to go again. So it's just bad, not terrible.

- Holy crap, there are actually Senators standing around during the Peters/Emery fight! They're not even tied up with other guys, they're just standing there. That's a disgrace.

[Tekneek]

Put the line change in a different perspective. I thought of it like this...

Senators are down by 1 goal. Just a couple of minutes ago they gave up two quick goals to Buffalo. Neil just hit Drury and reasonably got the best of Stafford in the resulting fight. In a lot of games, there isn't a line brawl immediately when somebody has already challenged and fought the player that made the hit. Maybe Murray thought they could seize a little momentum off of the play. Ruff held his change back and was a little slow sending his guys out there. He knew he was sending tough guys out against skilled guys with no toughness. He might have held them off and done it a few minutes later if Murray had sent out the tough guys. Keep in mind that Buffalo had the last change and Ruff looked like he was being as slow as he could be by the video.

[Maple Leafs]

I bet the Sabres don't do much on Saturday night. Typically, even in a heated rivalry teams don't do much in front of a building full of the other teams fans.

- Detroit didn't do much against the Avs in Colorado
- Vancouver didn't do anything against the Avs in Colorado
- Ottawa didn't do anything against the Leafs in Ottawa

etc.

[MikeVic]

When's the last time a goalie scored a goal? I don't think I've seen or heard about that in a long time... but I know it's happened before... or am I just imagining things?

[Maple Leafs]

When's the last time a goalie scored a goal? I don't think I've seen or heard about that in a long time... but I know it's happened before... or am I just imagining things?
I think Brodeur was the last to shoot and score. Occasionally a goalie will get credit for being the last to touch the puck before a team scored on their own net (with the goalie pulled). I know Damian Rhodes got one that way a few years back.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I think Brodeur is right. Osgood scored one a long, long time ago too.

[Pumpy Tudors]

According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goaltender, the last NHL goalie to shoot and score was Evgeni Nabokov on the power play. :eek: Mika Noronen and Chris Mason have scored since, but that was like Maple Leafs mentioned, as they were just the last player on their own team to touch it.

Brodeur's the only one to have a game-winning goal. Considering how many games he's won for the Devils over the past 13 years, it's fitting. :)

[MikeVic]

According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goaltender, the last NHL goalie to shoot and score was Evgeni Nabokov on the power play. :eek: Mika Noronen and Chris Mason have scored since, but that was like Maple Leafs mentioned, as they were just the last player on their own team to touch it.

Brodeur's the only one to have a game-winning goal. Considering how many games he's won for the Devils over the past 13 years, it's fitting. :)

Thanks! There's something I've always liked about goalies scoring goals.

[Logan]

Put the line change in a different perspective. I thought of it like this...

Senators are down by 1 goal. Just a couple of minutes ago they gave up two quick goals to Buffalo. Neil just hit Drury and reasonably got the best of Stafford in the resulting fight. In a lot of games, there isn't a line brawl immediately when somebody has already challenged and fought the player that made the hit. Maybe Murray thought they could seize a little momentum off of the play. Ruff held his change back and was a little slow sending his guys out there. He knew he was sending tough guys out against skilled guys with no toughness. He might have held them off and done it a few minutes later if Murray had sent out the tough guys. Keep in mind that Buffalo had the last change and Ruff looked like he was being as slow as he could be by the video.

Those are all fair points...but forget about being down a goal and looking for momentum, and forget that the tough guys could be sent out at anytime looking for revenge...I just don't think you send your two franchise players out there right away. Ruff looked like he was going to explode the entire time; I think there was very little doubt that he would eventually put his instigators out there on that first shift. I don't know enough about Ottawa's team...but given their record, they gotta have a second line of guys who have potential for a quick goal and also could at least hold their own out there. Putting Spezza out there was just ridiculous and stupid. Not to mention anyone could've crushed Comrie like a bug if they felt like it.

[Maple Leafs]

Those are all fair points...but forget about being down a goal and looking for momentum, and forget that the tough guys could be sent out at anytime looking for revenge...I just don't think you send your two franchise players out there right away. Ruff looked like he was going to explode the entire time; I think there was very little doubt that he would eventually put his instigators out there on that first shift. I don't know enough about Ottawa's team...but given their record, they gotta have a second line of guys who have potential for a quick goal and also could at least hold their own out there. Putting Spezza out there was just ridiculous and stupid. Not to mention anyone could've crushed Comrie like a bug if they felt like it.
Here's another thought: once you see who Buffalo has out there, and especially once Ruff starts ranting and pointing... why not call timeout?

[Logan]

Here's another thought: once you see who Buffalo has out there, and especially once Ruff starts ranting and pointing... why not call timeout?

I thought the same thing when I saw the highlights and was going to post that...but for some reason I was under the impression that timeouts can only be called during the breaks in action, and once everyone gets lined up for the faceoff, it can't be done. I can't think of one time where I saw that happen. But if it's legal, quadruple moron points to Murray.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Putting Spezza out there was just ridiculous and stupid. Not to mention anyone could've crushed Comrie like a bug if they felt like it.
I love how you don't mention Heatley. :D

[Maple Leafs]

I love how you don't mention Heatley.
Hey now... the last time Heatley sped away from a scene that fast, someone wound up dead.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Speaking of Dany Heatley, he got tossed around right before the fight started (I see where the term "ragdoll physics" comes from now), yet he didn't get a penalty. That means that he allowed himself to get flung like a shot put, yet he didn't even fight to defend himself or his goalie. Hell, I have more respect for Spezza and his turtling. At least he took his punches. Heatley was probably squealing like a pig as he ran for his life.

Wow, I loved that brawl. Great stuff.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Hey now... the last time Heatley sped away from a scene that fast, someone wound up dead.
I laughed way too hard at this.

Edit: Seriously, that was worthy of an "OH SNAP!" I'm rolling over here.

[Logan]

I laughed way too hard at this.

Edit: Seriously, that was worthy of an "OH SNAP!" I'm rolling over here.

I had to do the "start fake-coughing loudly to cover up the clear sounds of laughing way too hard to be doing anything work-related."

P.S. I've been e-mailing back and forth with a friend about the fight, and I already passed that joke off as my own. Thanks.

[Pyser]

scoring line or not, thats downright embrassing for ottawa. if im a senator, i have a tough time looking at anyone who was on the ice watching their goalie fight a non goalie.

this goes a long way, for me, towards explaining why ottawa has been so talented lately and havent won a thing. they just dont have the heart or grit.

and size is no excuse. gionta is the smallest guy in the league, and he routinely goes after chara.

fun for the fans though! :)

[Tekneek]

and size is no excuse. gionta is the smallest guy in the league, and he routinely goes after chara.

Has he dropped the gloves with Chara? I get the feeling Chara wouldn't do it, since he seems to have a decent sense of fair play, but if he has I wonder how it went.

[RendeR]

I'm rather surprised at the lack of anger at neal, the guy is a known thug who has about as much hockey talent as, well me....and he takes out the opponents str player with an obviously late and unnecessary hit?

I'm really hoping he gets suspended finally. The guy is nothing more than a headhunter on the ice and has been for the last few seasons.

[Logan]

I'm rather surprised at the lack of anger at neal, the guy is a known thug who has about as much hockey talent as, well me....and he takes out the opponents str player with an obviously late and unnecessary hit?

I'm really hoping he gets suspended finally. The guy is nothing more than a headhunter on the ice and has been for the last few seasons.

While it was dirty for being late, it hurts the argument when everyone on the Buffalo bench was claiming it was an elbow by showing their elbows, then pointing out the cut on the head when the only reason for the cut was because Drury's helmet flew off and he hit his head on the ice.

[Pyser]

Has he dropped the gloves with Chara? I get the feeling Chara wouldn't do it, since he seems to have a decent sense of fair play, but if he has I wonder how it went.

i dont think he has, no. but im 100% sure if chara did, gionta wouldnt run away.

regardless, dumb on ott's coaches part, and even dumber on the players on the ice's part. at least pretend to try to get involved.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm rather surprised at the lack of anger at neal, the guy is a known thug who has about as much hockey talent as, well me....and he takes out the opponents str player with an obviously late and unnecessary hit?

I'm really hoping he gets suspended finally. The guy is nothing more than a headhunter on the ice and has been for the last few seasons.

I don't know about that. Chris Neil is much less a thug than say, Andrew Peters. Chris Neil has 10 goals this year and scored 16 last year. Sure, he's known more for his fists than his hands, but I wouldn't consider him just a no-talent thug.

[Pyser]

meanwhile...

Anson Carter to Carolina for a fifth-round pick in the 2008 draft.

[Honolulu_Blue]

meanwhile...

Anson Carter to Carolina for a fifth-round pick in the 2008 draft.

A fifth-round pick? That's all? Well, he salary is a bit garish for what he brings to the table.

[Maple Leafs]

I don't know about that. Chris Neil is much less a thug than say, Andrew Peters. Chris Neil has 10 goals this year and scored 16 last year. Sure, he's known more for his fists than his hands, but I wouldn't consider him just a no-talent thug.
Agreed. In fact, if anything Neil is in danger of entering that "when a crusher becomes a rusher" phase of his career. He also had his turtle act against the Lightning last year. But I give him a pass -- his head was so screwed up from years of playing under Jacques "The Pacifist" Martin that it's a credit to him that he became the player he did.

Clean hit, by the way,

[Pyser]

also, New Jersey's trade of Alexander Korolyuk to San Jose has been voided after the winger decided to stay in Russia rather than join the Sharks and resume his NHL career.

[TurnerONU22]

A fifth-round pick? That's all? Well, he salary is a bit garish for what he brings to the table.

Here's how bad he's played for us this year: he was demoted to play with Jody Shelley. Enough said.

Good riddance, and it makes me realize how good the Sedin twins actually are.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Here's how bad he's played for us this year: he was demoted to play with Jody Shelley. Enough said.

Good riddance, and it makes me realize how good the Sedin twins actually are.

That's not good. Anson Carter is odd. He had a great season last year thnaks to playing with the Sedins, but, even despite his woes this year, he has averaged about 25 goals a season in his career, but yet he's been traded seven ties. You figure a winger who can score 25 goals a year would eventually stick somewhere, but that's clearly not been the case for this guy. He's always been a bit of an enigma to me.

[Maple Leafs]

I just saw the clip again, and it was pointed out that not only does Heatley run away, but at the end of it he's skating around by himself and still has his gloves and stick.

I mean... at that point, don't you drop your gloves just for appearances? Are you worried that they're going to start play again and you may need to receive an outlet pass?

[klayman]

That's not good. Anson Carter is odd. He had a great season last year thnaks to playing with the Sedins, but, even despite his woes this year, he has averaged about 25 goals a season in his career, but yet he's been traded seven ties. You figure a winger who can score 25 goals a year would eventually stick somewhere, but that's clearly not been the case for this guy. He's always been a bit of an enigma to me.

His work ethic drives coaches nuts. The problem with his 25 goals/year is they are usually a very quiet 25 goals. He rarely shows up when you need him to.

[klayman]

I just saw the clip again, and it was pointed out that not only does Heatley run away, but at the end of it he's skating around by himself and still has his gloves and stick.

I mean... at that point, don't you drop your gloves just for appearances? Are you worried that they're going to start play again and you may need to receive an outlet pass?

Maybe he's still on probation?

[Pumpy Tudors]

Maybe he's still on probation?
:D :D :D

[Wolfpack]

Just saw the Carter deal. Even if he doesn't add up to a lot, a fifth round pick is all that was lost in the deal, so I'm not real worried about it. If he helps, hey, it's better than nothing. Cole's out for a while with a bad hip, so that's probably what prompted the trade.

[Galaxy]

While it was dirty for being late, it hurts the argument when everyone on the Buffalo bench was claiming it was an elbow by showing their elbows, then pointing out the cut on the head when the only reason for the cut was because Drury's helmet flew off and he hit his head on the ice.

It was still late, regardless. When you go after an opposing team's top player and captain with a hit like that, your just asking for it. Ruff, after the game, changed his comments to reflect that wasn't an elbow. However, he still called it a dirty late.

[Maple Leafs]

It was still late, regardless. When you go after an opposing team's top player and captain with a hit like that, your just asking for it. Ruff, after the game, changed his comments to reflect that wasn't an elbow. However, he still called it a dirty late.
A third-liner going after a star isn't dirty. That doesn't mean the Sabres can't be mad or can't go out for revenge, just that the hit was clean.

Was it dirty? No. Do the Sabres still need to take care of some business? Yes, of course they do.

[Galaxy]

A third-liner going after a star isn't dirty. That doesn't mean the Sabres can't be mad or can't go out for revenge, just that the hit was clean.

Was it dirty? No. Do the Sabres still need to take care of some business? Yes, of course they do.

How is a hit "clean" if it's late? I don't understand the argument how it was clean, but late. Wouldn't a late hit be consider dirty?

[Maple Leafs]

How is a hit "clean" if it's late? I don't understand the argument how it was clean, but late. Wouldn't a late hit be consider dirty?
I didn't think it was late. And if it was, it was a fraction of a second late.... "technically in violation of the rules" isn't the same as "dirty" or "cheap".

[Galaxy]

You didn't think it was late? Chris had that puck gone for at least a few seconds.

[Maple Leafs]

You didn't think it was late? Chris had that puck gone for at least a few seconds.
Count from the time he shoots the puck to impact. You'll get to about "one missi-" before the hit. That's not late. Guys don't become untouchable as soon as the puck leaves their stick.

[Maple Leafs]

Random thought: why didn't Emery get the automatic match penalty for fighting with tape on his hand?

[JonInMiddleGA]

How is a hit "clean" if it's late? I don't understand the argument how it was clean, but late. Wouldn't a late hit be consider dirty?

Maple Leafs pretty much covered my answer, there's a lot of intent involved in the distinction. Same as getting to a QB a split second late & getting 15 yards for roughing the passer isn't considered "dirty", but knocking him ass over teakettle 7 seconds after the play is over often would be.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Random thought: why didn't Emery get the automatic match penalty for fighting with tape on his hand?

The refs probably just missed it. One of those situations where so much was going on at the time that it was completely over-looked. I wonder if the league can go back and assess such a penalty after reviewing the tape.

[Pumpy Tudors]

More fun with Dany Heatley: Before that faceoff, he shoved Patrick Kaleta. Now, normally, I'd think that it was retaliatory, but Kaleta was playing in his first NHL game ever. What are the chances that he's going to start talking serious shit to Heatley before the faceoff? So Heatley shoves Kaleta, waits for the faceoff, and then runs off looking for mommy. Comedy through the fucking roof.

[Maple Leafs]

How funny would it be if after all that, the only suspendable offense was having tape on your hand?

[Draft Dodger]

Ray Emery is awesome!

[Tekneek]

Maybe he's still on probation?

I thought he found some way to weasel out of that a long time ago. As far as anybody in Atlanta knows, he has never bothered to do his community service time either.

[klayman]

I thought he found some way to weasel out of that a long time ago. As far as anybody in Atlanta knows, he has never bothered to do his community service time either.

Maybe he figured playing for Ottawa was his community service.

[Maple Leafs]

As far as anybody in Atlanta knows, he has never bothered to do his community service time either.
You're kidding, right?

[Tekneek]

You're kidding, right?

Not at all.

[NoSkillz]

The rematch is tonight!

No suspensions levied after Thursday night's game, although Lindy Ruff was fined $10,000 for his actions (likely tied to the instigator penalties).

Ottawa is dressing their enforcer for tonight's game and while overhyped games like this end up being just that, I do expect to see McGratton and Peters face off pretty early in the contest.

I think the game will really be physical but I doubt we'll see Ottawa take liberties with Buffalo's stars...at least the ones still healthy (Briere, Vanek, Miller).

Seven of Buffalo's 18 skaters tonight (eight if you include Peters ;) ) are AHL'ers. Talk about being in tough...

[Tekneek]

I bet the game will be boring. I *might* TiVo it just in case.

[Maple Leafs]

Rob Ray had some interesting comments in the paper today about the Sens not doing anything when Peters went after Emery. He told a story about dropping the gloves with Patrick Roy once and having half the Canadiens roster on top of him within a few seconds.

As someone who doesn't really care about either team, I hope the Sabres being down so many players means an Ottawa blowout. You know, so we can get to the fun stuff.

[Tekneek]

Rob Ray had some interesting comments in the paper today about the Sens not doing anything when Peters went after Emery. He told a story about dropping the gloves with Patrick Roy once and having half the Canadiens roster on top of him within a few seconds.

Hard to defend a "soft" label after that incident, for sure.

[Maple Leafs]

Hard to defend a "soft" label after that incident, for sure.
Unless you get a chance to make it right two nights later...

[Tekneek]

Unless you get a chance to make it right two nights later...

Nothing will happen. League brass will be in attendance. The game will be called tight and it will be really boring. At least that's my take on it. I'd like to be surprised, but it usually goes the boring route.

[Maple Leafs]

Nothing will happen. League brass will be in attendance. The game will be called tight and it will be really boring. At least that's my take on it. I'd like to be surprised, but it usually goes the boring route.
True. The last time the Sens had a "payback" game was this year after Darcy Tucker pummelled Patrick Eaves. Neil and McGratton talked up a storm for two days. Then Neil gave Tucker a stern talking-to at the opening faceoff and nothing else happened.

Maybe this time they'll go one step further and pen a nasty letter to the editor.

[TurnerONU22]

Does any team need a PP specialist for the playoff run, 'cause I'd love for the Jackets to get rid of Bryan Berard (err... Bryan Berar) yesterday. Here's his lovely quote in the paper this morning:

"Hopefully, I’ll get moved somewhere and play in the playoffs," Berard said in Saturday's Columbus Dispatch. "I’m not playing as well as I’d like to play right now, obviously. But not being one of Hitch’s guys, I’m not playing as much as I’d like, either."

Not being one of Hitch's guys = I suck at defense! He was never impressive at all here (sans a nice hat trick on a set of PP goals), and my wife went to the first exhibition game after the lockout when we first got Berard. She didn't know too much about hockey at the time, and when she got home, she was like "Who is this Berard guy, is he a minor league guy, because he can't play a lick of D."

Got a chance to meet him a couple weeks ago a a Hockey Festival thing that the CBJ had, and you could tell he didn't want to be there, was probably the rudest player by a mile.

I'm not usually a mean person, but so long Cyclops!!!!!

(Sorry, its been a terrible season in Columbus, and I need to vent about it)

[Draft Dodger]

I bet the game will be boring. I *might* TiVo it just in case.

it's a HNIC game, right? I Tivo the 7pm game for coaches corner and satellite hot stove anyway

[Maple Leafs]

it's a HNIC game, right? I Tivo the 7pm game for coaches corner and satellite hot stove anyway
One of them... but Leafs/Flyers is the main game.

[Draft Dodger]

btw, just happened to be half-watching the Isles-Canadians today. Some Bergeron guy for the Isles just saved a certain goal by blocking a shot in the goal crease to preserve a 3-2 lead.

[Karim]

One of them... but Leafs/Flyers is the main game.

:rolleyes:

[Tekneek]

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING-Acquired D Shane O'Brien and a 2007 third-round draft pick from Anaheim for G Gerald Coleman and a 2007 first-round draft pick.

I like Shane O'Brien, but Burke is a genius. The Canucks were idiots to force him out.

[Galaxy]

Maple Leafs pretty much covered my answer, there's a lot of intent involved in the distinction. Same as getting to a QB a split second late & getting 15 yards for roughing the passer isn't considered "dirty", but knocking him ass over teakettle 7 seconds after the play is over often would be.

But it wasn't a "spilt second". It was 4.4 seconds. Not to mention in the NFL, a helmet-to-helmet hit would draw a flag and fine.


BTW, the heavyweights just fought. Ottawa is playing very physical, trying to draw "blood", but the Sabres are just drawing the penalties and playing it more conservative.

[Galaxy]

Man, Neil is trying to start anything.

[Galaxy]

Jeez Sabres,
Stop turning the fricken puck over.

[JonInMiddleGA]

But it wasn't a "spilt second". It was 4.4 seconds.

I thought your question about how late might not always equal dirty, and was answering in a general sense.

[Maple Leafs]

Nice comeback by the Sabres given how short-handed they were. But in terms of the physical stuff... yikes. Ruff at home, Lindy on the road indeed.

[Galaxy]

I thought your question about how late might not always equal dirty, and was answering in a general sense.

Sorry, misunderstood your response.

[Galaxy]

Nice comeback by the Sabres given how short-handed they were. But in terms of the physical stuff... yikes. Ruff at home, Lindy on the road indeed.

It's almost as the Sens focused too much on trying to be physical and try to get back the Sabres. However, the Sabres are the one team that you can never let your guard against. Depsite the lost, the Sabres have to come away with a great feeling the way they came back (and losing on a poorly handled goal).

It's very possible that this could be a second-round playoff series with these two teams.

[Dr. Sak]

The Atlanta Thrashers have made a move to bolster their blueline for a playoff run, acquiring veteran Alexei Zhitnik from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for top defence prospect Braydon Coburn.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=197567&hubname=

[JonInMiddleGA]

The Atlanta Thrashers have made a move to bolster their blueline for a playoff run, acquiring veteran Alexei Zhitnik from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for top defence prospect Braydon Coburn.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=197567&hubname=

Too little, too late I'm afraid :(

[Pumpy Tudors]

Alexei Zhitnik? They still make that?

What's next? They're gonna bring Richard Smehlik out of retirement to play alongside him?

[JonInMiddleGA]

What's next? They're gonna bring Richard Smehlik out of retirement to play alongside him?

Sadly, he'd be an upgrade over Sutton, DeVries, and (of late) Havelid. When Exelby is rapidly becoming your most consistent & maybe best defenseman, there's serious issues.

The one thing I don't like about this trade is that Zhitnik has another year or two left at $3.5m after this one.

[klayman]

btw, just happened to be half-watching the Isles-Canadians today. Some Bergeron guy for the Isles just saved a certain goal by blocking a shot in the goal crease to preserve a 3-2 lead.

Was that right after he gave the puck away that led to the opportunity?

[Chief Rum]

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING-Acquired D Shane O'Brien and a 2007 third-round draft pick from Anaheim for G Gerald Coleman and a 2007 first-round draft pick.

I like Shane O'Brien, but Burke is a genius. The Canucks were idiots to force him out.

Do you know something I don't about Coleman that makes this move make more sense? Because as a Ducks fan, I am confused. I do agree Burke is a genius at putting teams together, and for that reason alone, I will give him the benefit of the doubt until I know more.

But what I am seeing here is us trading away a good young defenseman with potential when we're not deep on the blue line at all, and getting a questionably talented goalie (perhaps our strongest organizational position) and a midlevel first rounder at best.

While turning O'Brien into a first rounder is a decent move, it makes no sense at all for where this team is now. Unless this is a prelude to a move for offense (like a veteran second line sniper wing), where we finally have a first rounder to deal (we dealt our next two in the Pronger deal), I don't see how this helps us now at all, and it's questionable how much it will help us anywhere in the next three years at least.

[Tekneek]

No, Coleman is nothing. He means nothing to the deal. O'Brien is good, but he is certainly not worth a first rounder. This first rounder will be used to bring in something better. I think it is a prelude to a bigger deal. I like Shane a lot. Might be the only player I actually like on that team. I should say liked, since he's gone. Still, I think this was all about getting the first round pick and Coleman will serve as depth when at least one of the minor league goalies walks away via free agency this summer.

[Tekneek]

Alexei Zhitnik? They still make that?

What's next? They're gonna bring Richard Smehlik out of retirement to play alongside him?

They did have Smehlik in his final season, does that count? :)

This does reveal how low Coburn's stock dropped, IMO. He has all the physical skills but apparently doesn't have the brain to go with it. This kid was a 8th overall pick but has been slow to grasp the mental side of the pro game. Lots of people have talked about how many times Bob Hartley had to go over fundamentals with him during practices.

[Tekneek]

Nothing will happen. League brass will be in attendance. The game will be called tight and it will be really boring. At least that's my take on it. I'd like to be surprised, but it usually goes the boring route.

Glad I was wrong about the game. It was a very good one.

[Draft Dodger]

Was that right after he gave the puck away that led to the opportunity?

like I said, half-watching. :)

[Draft Dodger]

sounds like Keith Tkachuk is going to Atlanta for a boatload

[JonInMiddleGA]

sounds like Keith Tkachuk is going to Atlanta for a boatload

Hopefully that boatload will at least include dead weight Niko Kapanen.

I think the phrase "panic move" that's being tossed around is pretty appropriate, but I'm not at all sure that panic isn't appropriate for the team at this point. Missing the playoffs after leading the division for most of the season is a very real possibility, and that would be the end of both Waddell & Hartley, not to mention the damage it would do to an still fragile fanbase (of course, being 0-7 for home sellouts & an abysmal record for Saturday home games isn't helping matters there either).

Giving up a first round pick doesn't really bother me much. While they aren't the Detroit Lions (yet), the team hasn't exactly been stellar with their picks either. Odds are, they'll get as much or more out of an aging Tkachuk as they would have gotten out of the pick anyway.

[Draft Dodger]

word is 1st and 2nd in 07, 3rd in 08 and Metropolit.

[Draft Dodger]

dola, I would LOVE to have Hartley back in Colorado. Atlanta should fire him.

[Tekneek]

Unofficially, the deal is...

The Atlanta Thrashers have traded for Keith Tkachuk in exchange for Glen Metropolit, Atlanta's 2007 1st round pick, 3rd round pick, a 2nd rounder in 2008. There is also a conditional pick based upon whether Tkachuk resigns in Atlanta or not.

Metro is one of the favorite players of my wife and I, so we hate to see him go (she knows him from more than 10 years ago). Even worse that he is leaving so that some douchebag like Tkachuk can come here. I care very little for Tkachuk and Guerin so, since they appeared to be determined to land one of those two, I was going to be unhappy with the move either way.

[JonInMiddleGA]

dola, I would LOVE to have Hartley back in Colorado. Atlanta should fire him.

I've been a steady supporter of Hartley since he was hired, but there have been some chinks in that armor this year, most notably his curious handling of the rotation of Lehtonen & Hedberg in goal. Or more specifically the lack of rotation.

Waddell, on the other hand ... good grief. How on earth this guy still has a job confounds me, either he's one of the worst judges of ability ever or he takes advice from horrible judges of ability. In either case, he can't get out of town fast enough to suit me at this point.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Metro is one of the favorite players of my wife and I, so we hate to see him go (she knows him from more than 10 years ago).

I'm sorry to see him go too, not for any personal/personality reasons, but rather simply because he's been productive here. And losing his contributions reduces the value of Tkachuk for me.

[Tekneek]

I'm sorry to see him go too, not for any personal/personality reasons, but rather simply because he's been productive here. And losing his contributions reduces the value of Tkachuk for me.

Indeed. I think he accomplished what he wanted to, though. He wanted to prove he could hang in the NHL and get it done, and despite Hartley's attempts to hold him down I think he did it. I know lots of people were wondering why he wasn't getting more ice time. He seemed to be the most effective centerman night after night, yet Hartley would juggle his ice time, linemates, and everything from period to period.

One thing is clear about Hartley: He has no system or philosophy at all.

[klayman]

dola, I would LOVE to have Hartley back in Colorado. Atlanta should fire him.

Wait. You said you were going to take MacTavish, and now you want Hartley back. I thought we were friends.

[Pyser]

The Montreal Canadiens traded defenceman Craig Rivet and a future fifth-round pick to the San Jose Sharks for defenceman Josh Gorges and a first-round pick in this year's draft.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Montreal Canadiens traded defenceman Craig Rivet and a future fifth-round pick to the San Jose Sharks for defenceman Josh Gorges and a first-round pick in this year's draft.

Craig Rivet for a first round pick?

Oh my...

[Draft Dodger]

Craig Rivet for a first round pick?

Oh my...

yeah. do GMs know that the draft is more than 1 round long?

[bhlloy]

Do you know something I don't about Coleman that makes this move make more sense? Because as a Ducks fan, I am confused. I do agree Burke is a genius at putting teams together, and for that reason alone, I will give him the benefit of the doubt until I know more.

But what I am seeing here is us trading away a good young defenseman with potential when we're not deep on the blue line at all, and getting a questionably talented goalie (perhaps our strongest organizational position) and a midlevel first rounder at best.

While turning O'Brien into a first rounder is a decent move, it makes no sense at all for where this team is now. Unless this is a prelude to a move for offense (like a veteran second line sniper wing), where we finally have a first rounder to deal (we dealt our next two in the Pronger deal), I don't see how this helps us now at all, and it's questionable how much it will help us anywhere in the next three years at least.

I 100% agree with this post. Sure a first round pick for O'Brien is an OK return, but this is supposed to be a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. Kent Huskins is now starting on the blueline, and it doesn't look like we are going to bring in another defensemen.

We also have no need for Coleman unless both Caron and Bryzgalov are both gone at the end of the year.

O'Brien was my favorite player, and it's a horrible deal for a team whose window really isn't that big (assuming this is Selanne's last good year and Niedermayer won't be around for ever) I don't see anyone still on the market who would have been better for us this year than O'Brien. If Niedermayer or Pronger go down, the season is now pretty much done and all we got was a mid-first rounder at best.

[Maple Leafs]

yeah. do GMs know that the draft is more than 1 round long?
There's a line of thought that mid-to-late first rounders are worth less these days thanks to liberalized free agency. Early picks who are going to contribute right away are still gold, but if a guy is going to need years to devlop, you may only get a couple of years out of him before he hits UFA. And that's if he makes it at all... Some GMs apparently figure that they'll deal a short-term unknown for a very short-term known.

[Draft Dodger]

There's a line of thought that mid-to-late first rounders are worth less these days thanks to liberalized free agency. Early picks who are going to contribute right away are still gold, but if a guy is going to need years to devlop, you may only get a couple of years out of him before he hits UFA. And that's if he makes it at all... Some GMs apparently figure that they'll deal a short-term unknown for a very short-term known.

I don't necessarily disagree with this line of thinking...but fucking Rivet?

[Honolulu_Blue]

There's a line of thought that mid-to-late first rounders are worth less these days thanks to liberalized free agency. Early picks who are going to contribute right away are still gold, but if a guy is going to need years to devlop, you may only get a couple of years out of him before he hits UFA. And that's if he makes it at all... Some GMs apparently figure that they'll deal a short-term unknown for a very short-term known.

Between that and the new rule that you have to sign all of your prospects within 2 years of drafting them a lot of people think the value of draft picks is not what it once was. This discussion came up with regards to making offering sheets to other team's RFA's, the thought being that the cost of a handful of picks, even first rounders, may actually be worth the price of a top-end talent guy under the new rules. That view didn't seem to catch on last year.

If Rivet, an expiring UFA, goes for a first rounder and Tkachuk is a 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and a roster player, Guerin's price will be very steep indeed.

I guess Braydon Coburn just hasn't developed like Atlanta thought he would. Coming out of the draft everyone thought he'd be the next big thing. Big, strong, some offensive upside.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I guess Braydon Coburn just hasn't developed like Atlanta thought he would. Coming out of the draft everyone thought he'd be the next big thing. Big, strong, some offensive upside.

Somewhere or another (one of the ESPN columnists maybe) there was a comment that summed it up pretty well, to the effect that "if he learns how to skate or how to hit, he might be okay".

I know it can be hit or miss when trying to identify prospects vs suspects, but it seems that the odds of Coburn developing into what the Thrashers hoped were pretty slim.

Of the 16 defensement drafted by the team prior to Coburn, only one (Exelby) has ever gotten any real time in the NHL (one other, Luke Sellars, technically made it, playing in one NHL game, he's now in the UHL), and four of those were in the top 100 of their draft class. Meanwhile, the team drafted four defensemen with their first six picks in the two drafts after Coburn was selected, so in theory there might be as much help coming as Coburn was providing anyway.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Somewhere or another (one of the ESPN columnists maybe) there was a comment that summed it up pretty well, to the effect that "if he learns how to skate or how to hit, he might be okay".

I know it can be hit or miss when trying to identify prospects vs suspects, but it seems that the odds of Coburn developing into what the Thrashers hoped were pretty slim.

Of the 16 defensement drafted by the team prior to Coburn, only one (Exelby) has ever gotten any real time in the NHL (one other, Luke Sellars, technically made it, playing in one NHL game, he's now in the UHL), and four of those were in the top 100 of their draft class. Meanwhile, the team drafted four defensemen with their first six picks in the two drafts after Coburn was selected, so in theory there might be as much help coming as Coburn was providing anyway.

I know one would Boris Valabik, who was a top 10 pick in 2004. But isn't he, possibly like Coburn, less effective in the new NHL? I think he was drafted to be a big, mean, ugly guy in the defensive zone and not much more, like a Hatcher or Hall Gill type. He can no longer (within the rules) do what he does best.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Somewhere or another (one of the ESPN columnists maybe) there was a comment that summed it up pretty well, to the effect that "if he learns how to skate or how to hit, he might be okay".

He sounds like he's on the verge of becomming a poorman's Cory Cross.

[Pyser]

Sources tell TSN the Florida Panthers have agreed to a trade involving Gary Roberts and have asked him to waive his no trade clause. But sources say the deal is not with Toronto or Ottawa, the only two teams Roberts has said he will go to.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I know one would Boris Valabik, who was a top 10 pick in 2004. But isn't he, possibly like Coburn, less effective in the new NHL? I think he was drafted to be a big, mean, ugly guy in the defensive zone and not much more, like a Hatcher or Hall Gill type. He can no longer (within the rules) do what he does best.

Valabik is one of the four, the others are Grant Lewis (40th in 2004, still at Dartmouth), Scott Lehman (76th in '04, now at ECHL/Gwinnett), and Chad Denny (49th in '05, still at Lewiston/QMJHL).

If the most Coburn was providing was a 6th or 7th defensman with maybe an (reassessed) upside of being a 4th or 5th guy, then I imagine the thinking is/was that older guys like Popovic could fill the current role in a pinch & that the younger prospects have at least that much future.

[Jonathan Ezarik]

Sources tell TSN the Florida Panthers have agreed to a trade involving Gary Roberts and have asked him to waive his no trade clause. But sources say the deal is not with Toronto or Ottawa, the only two teams Roberts has said he will go to.

The Post-Gazette is reporting that the Pens are trying to land Roberts. No idea on what they'll give up for him, though.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07057/765150-100.stm

[Draft Dodger]

Crosby and a first, no doubt

[Suburban Rhythm]

The Post-Gazette is reporting that the Pens are trying to land Roberts. No idea on what they'll give up for him, though.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07057/765150-100.stm


Malone or Ouellett-- God bless Ray Shero!
If it takes Colby Armstrong or Erik Christiansen, not worth it.

I believe they originally asked Ottawa for A Vermette and a pick...in which case it would take Armstrong or Christiansen, unless Florida severely lowered their price.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Smolinksi to Vancouver for a 2nd rounder.

Zednik to the Islanders for a 2nd rounder.

Both deals are fine by me. I've never liked either player.

[DeToxRox]

Wings trade Jason Williams to Philly for Kyle Calder

Calder is an expiring contract who at this point is about as useful as Williams, so its probably a trade that opens the doors to something bigger.

Thank God though, Williams is awful.

[DeToxRox]

Dola looks like it was a three team deal

Calder has been acquired by the Detroit Red Wings in a three-way trade involving the Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks.

After being obtained by the Blackhawks from the Flyers for defenseman Lasse Kukkonen and a third-round pick, Calder was sent to the Red Wings for center Jason Williams.

[DeToxRox]

also

LA sends Sopel to the Canucks for a 2nd/4th

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wings trade Jason Williams to Philly for Kyle Calder

Calder is an expiring contract who at this point is about as useful as Williams, so its probably a trade that opens the doors to something bigger.

Thank God though, Williams is awful.

I kind of like Kyle Calder. He's shown some flashes. Jason Williams never did much for me. It really seems like a bit of a lateral move at the moment...

[DeToxRox]

It should be noted it is actually Williams to Chicago.

[DeToxRox]

Rumor is Guerin to Detroit according to local radio.

Trying to find anything concrete but throwing it out there.

[DeToxRox]

Cant confirm it so for now I'd say its just more speculation.

[Dr. Sak]

Malone or Ouellett-- God bless Ray Shero!
If it takes Colby Armstrong or Erik Christiansen, not worth it.

I believe they originally asked Ottawa for A Vermette and a pick...in which case it would take Armstrong or Christiansen, unless Florida severely lowered their price.

I've heard that it could be Noah Welch. I personally think this is a terrible move by the Pens. Roberts will be an UFA in July. Is this guy going to win them a cup, no. A lot has been said about the Pens' toughness and them needing an enforcer but I don't think they should be giving up on Welch so soon for a rental like this.

[Chief Rum]

No, Coleman is nothing. He means nothing to the deal. O'Brien is good, but he is certainly not worth a first rounder. This first rounder will be used to bring in something better. I think it is a prelude to a bigger deal. I like Shane a lot. Might be the only player I actually like on that team. I should say liked, since he's gone. Still, I think this was all about getting the first round pick and Coleman will serve as depth when at least one of the minor league goalies walks away via free agency this summer.

Oh come on, surely you like Teemu. Everyone likes Teemu. :)

Other than that, generally agree with your points. This has to be a move to try to bring someone in tomorrow (I hope). It's possible (and Burke suggested as much to the local papers) that he sees soem value if a deal doesn't get done (a first rounder is a first rounder, and as you note, getting Coleman helps us if we allow Caron to leave from Portland, or if we finally decide to move either Bryz or allow Jiggy to leave). But I am hoping we get a deal done, and just resign Jiggy.