The Official 2012-13 NHL Offseason Thread

[RomaGoth]

Tom Renney is gone in Edmonton.

Tom Renney will not be back as Oilers coach - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/19076059/tom-renney-will-not-be-back-as-oilers-coach)

[RomaGoth]

So nobody else is waiting for next season? There should be around 26 or 27 of you out there who's team isn't playing anymore.

Already hearing rumors of Alexandre Semin going to Detroit. Not sure how I feel about that; the last thing we need is another lazy player who only plays when he feels like it. Any caps fans here with any input? (sorry HiFi)

[Fidatelo]

Despite the Jets not being in it, I'm still enjoying the playoffs. I just like watching hockey. Plus it's hard to get excited about an offseason that's going to extend due to a lockout. Even the draft is a bit boring to me this year as I just don't know much about anyone beyond the top 3-4 and the Jets don't pick till 9.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Report: Dominik Hasek, six-time Vezina Trophy winner, looking to return to NHL at 47 | SI Tracking Blog – Tracking MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, and NCAA On Twitter (http://tracking.si.com/2012/05/25/dominik-hasek-return-nhl/)

[bhlloy]

Justin Schultz files to leave Wisconsin, 30 days before FA starts. Has some people confused and wondering if the Ducks might be able to get things done after all. Word was he was might wait as long as possible to see how bad the lockout was before deciding whether to return for his senior season

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Wings are calling a press conference tomorrow morning, 11:00 am EST. Holland and Lidstrom are expected to speak.

Oh dear...

[johnnyshaka]

Yeah, that's really too bad, HB, Lidstrom is still capable of playing at a very, very high level. While I like to see players leaving on their own accord, I really hate seeing guys leave when they are still that good.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The Wings are calling a press conference tomorrow morning, 11:00 am EST. Holland and Lidstrom are expected to speak.

Oh dear...

I wonder if Ryan Suter will be in attendance...

[Pyser]

feels good to read this thread and not be in my teams off season yet...

...but then, who knows how long this offseason will actually be

[RomaGoth]

Lidstrom officially retiring. Can't say this is good news as he is still probably a top-5 d-man in the NHL but it is not totally unexpected.

Thank you Lids for the last 20 years in a Wings uniform. :(

[Honolulu_Blue]

Sad day for Wings fans and hockey fans in general. He’s been one of the best players in this generation.

The few glimpses of the Lidstromless Wings we’ve seen over the recent years have been a bit terrifying. The two times that Lidstrom missed any significant time with injury - this year and 2008 - the Wings went into a huge tailspin. They looked lost out there on defense. Perhaps with his retirement, the psychology will change and it wont be so bad (then again the Wings looked “lost out there on defense” throughout much of the Pedators’ series and Lidstrom was on the ice, though likely still struggling with that bone bruise.)

That said, as depressing as it is to see him go and how there is no “replacing” Lidstrom, this will be by far the most interesting off-season for the Wings in some time. It will also make the season a bit more interesting given the potential new faces and all of the question marks that will be surrounding a team.

As the Chinese proverb goes… May we live in interesting times.

This also likely marks the last of the 1997-98 Cup winners. With Lidstrom retiring, the likelihood of Holmstrom returning shrinks dramatically. Once those two are gone, that's it from those teams and that great era of Red Wings hockey.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I hate people

Pittsburgh Penguins Fan Sues Team For Texting Him Too Frequently - The Consumerist (http://consumerist.com/2012/05/penguins-fan-sues-team-for-texting-him-too-frequently.html)

[britrock88]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=397266

GMs are discussing potential rule changes, among them implementing a carry-over provision for late-game, "sending a message"-type penalties in postseason series, and hybrid icing.

But the best part of the article was this sweeping quote:

"I want to know what is real."

[Logan]

Marian Gaborik has a torn rotator cuff and will be out 5-6 months. Appears he had played for 2.5 rounds with it.

[chadritt]

Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas may sit out 2012-13 season - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nhl/story/_/id/7997862/boston-bruins-goalie-tim-thomas-sit-2012-13-season)

[Suburban Rhythm]

This is pretty great

70 page PDF download - http://sites.google.com/site/hockeyabstract/testimonials/playerusagecharts2011-12/Player%20Usage%20Charts%202011-12.pdf?attredirects=2

Maps out player usage by team. I'll use Pens as an example

http://i48.tinypic.com/25sncw9.jpg

Vertical axis is quality of competition, horizontal measures zone starts.

Circle size relates to players TOI. Blue = team outshoots opponent while on the ice / White = team is outshoot by opponent while on the ice.

What I take from this for Pittsburgh: Staal, and to a lesser extent Pascal Dupuis, were beasts.

Malkin and Neal got used a ton in the offensive zone, although they are more valuable there than in their own end. Plus, it's skewed by Crosby playing in only 20 some games. If you use Staal in the defensive zone, your other options past Malkin for most of the year were Joe Vitale, Craig Adams, and Ricard Park.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins Acquire Goaltender Tomas Vokoun; Veteran Netminder Signs Two-Year Contract - Pittsburgh Penguins - News (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=633707&navid=DL|PIT|home)

[Fidatelo]

Wow, 2m seems like a steal for Vokoun. Wouldn't he have been a free agent? Couldn't he have gotten almost twice that on the open market?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Wow, 2m seems like a steal for Vokoun. Wouldn't he have been a free agent? Couldn't he have gotten almost twice that on the open market?

I think it's a great price...if they aren't already paying Fleury $5M a year for the next 6 years.

I guess it makes sense in terms of having a guy who can play 30+ games, and start for a long stretch if Fleury is injured. But that extra $1M+ might be the difference between a top six winger and another tweener.

He would have been a UFA. He actually had a No Move Clause he had to waive to allow the move to happen.

[Young Drachma]

This is pretty great

70 page PDF download - http://sites.google.com/site/hockeyabstract/testimonials/playerusagecharts2011-12/Player%20Usage%20Charts%202011-12.pdf?attredirects=2

Maps out player usage by team.

Wow great find.

[Logan]

Sad.

In Hockey Enforcer’s Descent, Easy Access to Prescriptions - NYTimes.com (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/04/sports/hockey/in-hockey-enforcers-descent-a-flood-of-prescription-drugs.html?_r=3&pagewanted=1&partner=rss&emc=rss&adxnnlx=1338793290-c6fYAN6K3jW/jGKZ5uxu4A&pagewanted=all)

A trove of documents, compiled by Boogaard’s father, offer a rare prescription-by-prescription history of the care given to a prominent, physically ailing athlete who struggled with addiction to some of the very drugs the team doctors were providing. The scores of prescriptions came before and after Boogaard’s entry into the league’s substance-abuse program in September 2009 for an addiction to painkillers and sleeping pills.

Among the findings:

- In a six-month stretch from October 2008 to April 2009, while playing 51 games, Boogaard received at least 25 prescriptions for the painkillers hydrocodone or oxycodone, a total of 622 pills, from 10 doctors — eight team doctors of the Wild, an oral surgeon in Minneapolis and a doctor for another N.H.L. team.

- In the fall of 2010, an official for the Rangers, Boogaard’s new team, was notified of Boogaard’s recurring abuse of narcotic pain pills. Nonetheless, a Rangers team dentist soon wrote the first of five prescriptions for hydrocodone for Boogaard after he sustained an injury.

- Another Rangers doctor, although aware that Boogaard also had been addicted to sleeping pills in the past, wrote nearly 10 prescriptions for Ambien during Boogaard’s lone season with the team.

The records reveal the ease with which Boogaard received prescription drugs — often shortly after sending a text message to a team doctor’s cellphone and without a notation made in team medical files. They also show the breadth of the drugs being prescribed, from flu medications and decongestants to antidepressants and anti-anxiety pills.

Most striking, though, are the narcotic painkillers and sleeping pills, which Boogaard had a history of abusing.

Hope those doctors, the NHL, and as much as it pains me to say, the Rangers are held responsible in some way.

[RomaGoth]

Welcome to Hockeytown Mr. Parise!

Zach Parise says 'no way' he'll join Rangers, could re-sign with Devils (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/19345196/zach-parise-says-no-way-hell-join-rangers-could-resign-with-devils)

:D

[Fidatelo]

New Evander Kane rumors. Sigh.


Renaud P Lavoie
‏@RenLavoieRDS

What's going on with the Jets ? I hear from a player on Winnipeg that Kane doesn't want to negotiate a new deal ?

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Wings re-signed Darren Helm. 4 years and $2.125 million a year.

A decent deal for a 3rd line center who kills penalties and his tons of speed. If he can continue to improve on his offensive game, he could be quite a bargain in years 3-4 of the deal. His importance to the bottom six forwards was very apparent when he was out injured.

[bronconick]

Red Wings are the proud new owners of a 2014 7th round pick, as the Sharks sign Brad Stuart for 3 years @3.6 million per, and I assume there's a NTC or NMC attached given how badly he wanted to go back home.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Red Wings are the proud new owners of a 2014 7th round pick, as the Sharks sign Brad Stuart for 3 years @3.6 million per, and I assume there's a NTC or NMC attached given how badly he wanted to go back home.

That writing has been on the wall for a while now. Because of his family situation with his ex-wife, it was either play in San Jose - where she lives - or place someplace away from his kids. He's done that for the last several years and wasn't up for it anymore.

Good on the Wings for shipping him to San Jose early to give them time to work something. It's a pretty good deal for San Jose. Stuart's game slipped a bit this last year, but that could be in part because he was distracted by his family situation.

Still, the departure of 2 of the Wings top 4 defensemen leaves quite a large hole.

[RomaGoth]

Red Wings are the proud new owners of a 2014 7th round pick, as the Sharks sign Brad Stuart for 3 years @3.6 million per, and I assume there's a NTC or NMC attached given how badly he wanted to go back home.

Decent deal for the Sharks and I am sure Stuart is ecstatic. Meanwhile, San Jose will rue the day they traded that coveted 7th rounder to us when it turns into a franchise player from somewhere in Europe. ;)

[RomaGoth]

dola

Really like the Helm deal, he is a very important piece of the Wings present and future. $2 mil/year is not bad at all for a guy with his speed, work ethic, and potential. I still believe he can score 20 goals/year with more playing time.

[Fidatelo]

An article on TSN indicates that Bobby Ryan may be on the trade block.

Bobby Ryan for Evander Kane + 'something' seems like a good start to some trade discussions...

[bhlloy]

There are much worse things to trade Bobby Ryan for. I wouldn't hate that too much

[RomaGoth]

I would love to see Bobby Ryan in a Red Wings uniform. Not sure if that is a move Kenny Holland would make but he is the type of player we really need going forward.

[Logan]

The Rangers would kill for Ryan.

[bronconick]

Decent deal for the Sharks and I am sure Stuart is ecstatic. Meanwhile, San Jose will rue the day they traded that coveted 7th rounder to us when it turns into a franchise player from somewhere in Europe. ;)

Would have only turned into Joe Pavelski, Ryane Clowe or Jason Demers for us. *shrug* ;)

Wonder if that was the longest part of the negotiations between Holland and Wilson because they inexplicably pull solid roster players or better out of their butts with late rounders.

[bhlloy]

The impression I get from hearing bits and pieces is that the Rangers aren't very realistic in talking about value for their young defensemen and what it would take to get Ryan and that's why it wasn't done last season. Whether that will change or if Murray takes a lesser deal we'll see.

[chadritt]

An article on TSN indicates that Bobby Ryan may be on the trade block.

Bobby Ryan for Evander Kane + 'something' seems like a good start to some trade discussions...

If Kane is really that serious about wanting out of Winnipeg then Bobby Ryan would be one heck of a get. I wonder just how much more it would take though, Kanes a good asset too.

[bhlloy]

I think something like Kane + a second would probably be enough for me. It would depend on how affordable and amenable Kane is to playing in Anaheim and whether Ryan wanted to be the man on a smaller market team

[Fidatelo]

What about Kane + Enstrom for Ryan, I wonder who says 'no' to that?

[chadritt]

I would think Winnipeg. Unless Enstroms stock has seriously fallen since Atlanta.

[Fidatelo]

I would think Winnipeg. Unless Enstroms stock has seriously fallen since Atlanta.

I like Toby, but he's a UFA at the end of this year, and we have some replacement parts around on 'D'. Maybe Anaheim has to throw a pick or a prospect back?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Rumors swirling about Jordan Staal 1) wanting a top 6 role and 2) looking for $6M once his contract expires in 2013.

Kane for Staal? Kane with Crosby would be disgusting...and Matt Cooke would feel safer with Kane on his team.

[Grover]

Holy Balls is that Karlsson deal bad business for the Sens.

It MIGHT be worth it if he can manage 70 points per season...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Holy Balls is that Karlsson deal bad business for the Sens.

It MIGHT be worth it if he can manage 70 points per season...

Just saw this deal. I guess OTT thinks he will break 70 a season. I'm not sold on him as a #1 guy. Offensively, yes. Defensively, he's still young, but he's a little guy. While there have been guys who can play top pairing minutes at that size - Enstrom, Rafalski, Timonen - there are plenty more who get broken down.

I guess the idea is you have to be able to catch him to wear him down, but I just don't see him as physical enough.

At $6.5M, I at least know the range for Letang's deal in two years.

[Fidatelo]

Rumors swirling about Jordan Staal 1) wanting a top 6 role and 2) looking for $6M once his contract expires in 2013.

Kane for Staal? Kane with Crosby would be disgusting...and Matt Cooke would feel safer with Kane on his team.

From an on-ice standpoint I think the Jets would make that trade and be willing to slot Staal onto the #1 line, but I don't know how willing they'd be to fork over $6M/yr.

[Suburban Rhythm]

From an on-ice standpoint I think the Jets would make that trade and be willing to slot Staal onto the #1 line, but I don't know how willing they'd be to fork over $6M/yr.

I think we had a previous J Staal discussion going in one of these threads.

He's not a #1. Maybe if you are a non-playoff team. He's not really a great playmaker. Pretty good shot, with top 6 ice time he'd be around 30 goals a year. This year's playoff showing aside, one of the premier defensive centers in the league, excellent PKer, and decent faceoff guy now.

If you have a 75+ point guy on line 1, and he's your 2nd center (like he'd be in Carolina with his brother), you're gold.

[Fidatelo]

I think we had a previous J Staal discussion going in one of these threads.

He's not a #1. Maybe if you are a non-playoff team. He's not really a great playmaker. Pretty good shot, with top 6 ice time he'd be around 30 goals a year. This year's playoff showing aside, one of the premier defensive centers in the league, excellent PKer, and decent faceoff guy now.

If you have a 75+ point guy on line 1, and he's your 2nd center (like he'd be in Carolina with his brother), you're gold.

For the Jets, I would see Staal being the #1 while they bring along guys like Scheifele and Burmistrov, with one of them ideally growing into that 75+ point guy that pushes Staal into the golden spot at #2 :)

But in the short term, the Jets have no one that I would put ahead of Staal. Little? I don't think so. Burmistrov? A ways off, if ever. Antropov? He'll be lucky to get more than 10 minutes a game this year, I suspect (unless management tries to boost his numbers for a possible sell-off at the deadline). And Slater is Slater.

The way I see it, Staal moves in between Wheeler and Ladd. Little plays with Burmistrov and Player X on the second line, ?ST form the checking line (I'd just move Miettinen into Glass's spot and let Glass go), and then Antropov plays with whoever else is leftover.

So it's done then, Kane for Staal and Letang. Deal! :P

[Logan]

I love hockey players.

NHL Players Mock LeBron James’ Leg Cramps Via Twitter During Game 4 Of NBA Finals « CBS Boston (http://boston.cbslocal.com/2012/06/20/nhl-players-mock-lebron-james-leg-cramps-via-twitter-during-game-4-of-nba-finals/)

[Suburban Rhythm]

For the Jets, I would see Staal being the #1 while they bring along guys like Scheifele and Burmistrov, with one of them ideally growing into that 75+ point guy that pushes Staal into the golden spot at #2 :)

But in the short term, the Jets have no one that I would put ahead of Staal. Little? I don't think so. Burmistrov? A ways off, if ever. Antropov? He'll be lucky to get more than 10 minutes a game this year, I suspect (unless management tries to boost his numbers for a possible sell-off at the deadline). And Slater is Slater.

The way I see it, Staal moves in between Wheeler and Ladd. Little plays with Burmistrov and Player X on the second line, ?ST form the checking line (I'd just move Miettinen into Glass's spot and let Glass go), and then Antropov plays with whoever else is leftover.

So it's done then, Kane for Staal and Letang. Deal! :P

As crazy as this sounds....Letang might be less movable than Crosby or Malkin. In theory, you move one of those 2 guys, you have the other. Pens have nobody who can replace what he does.

But, to be fair, I'll replace him in that deal with Paul Martin and a 7th round pick.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I love hockey players.

NHL Players Mock LeBron James’ Leg Cramps Via Twitter During Game 4 Of NBA Finals « CBS Boston (http://boston.cbslocal.com/2012/06/20/nhl-players-mock-lebron-james-leg-cramps-via-twitter-during-game-4-of-nba-finals/)

Best article I've read in awhile. Would read again.

[RomaGoth]

For the Jets, I would see Staal being the #1 while they bring along guys like Scheifele and Burmistrov, with one of them ideally growing into that 75+ point guy that pushes Staal into the golden spot at #2 :)

But in the short term, the Jets have no one that I would put ahead of Staal. Little? I don't think so. Burmistrov? A ways off, if ever. Antropov? He'll be lucky to get more than 10 minutes a game this year, I suspect (unless management tries to boost his numbers for a possible sell-off at the deadline). And Slater is Slater.

The way I see it, Staal moves in between Wheeler and Ladd. Little plays with Burmistrov and Player X on the second line, ?ST form the checking line (I'd just move Miettinen into Glass's spot and let Glass go), and then Antropov plays with whoever else is leftover.

So it's done then, Kane for Staal and Letang. Deal! :P

I see what you did here.

[Fidatelo]

As crazy as this sounds....Letang might be less movable than Crosby or Malkin. In theory, you move one of those 2 guys, you have the other. Pens have nobody who can replace what he does.

But, to be fair, I'll replace him in that deal with Paul Martin and a 7th round pick.

I like that we're bargaining here. If you are willing to part with Malkin or Crosby rather than Letang, we would be amenable to that. So Staal and Malkin for Kane. Deal!

[Maple Leafs]

He's not a #1. Maybe if you are a non-playoff team. He's not really a great playmaker. Pretty good shot, with top 6 ice time he'd be around 30 goals a year. This year's playoff showing aside, one of the premier defensive centers in the league, excellent PKer, and decent faceoff guy now.
It's probably worth pointing out that what you just described (30 goals, + defense, excellent on the PK) is absolutely a #1 center.

Obviously not in the Crosby/Malkin/Sedin way, but if you figure there should be 30 #1 centers in the league each year, he's clearly on that list. He was top 15 last season in PPG as a 23-year-old, ahead of several guys who are seen as purely offensive #1 types.

And if this sounds like a Leaf fan trying to justify Burke blowing his brains out to trade for the guy, well... maybe.

[RomaGoth]

It's probably worth pointing out that what you just described (30 goals, + defense, excellent on the PK) is absolutely a #1 center.

Pavel Datsyuk

Obviously not in the Crosby/Malkin/Datsyuk way, but if you figure there should be 30 #1 centers in the league each year, he's clearly on that list. He was top 15 last season in PPG as a 23-year-old, ahead of several guys who are seen as purely offensive #1 types.

fixed

And if this sounds like a Leaf fan trying to justify Burke blowing his brains out to trade for the guy, well... maybe.

Staal for Kessel?

[Suburban Rhythm]

It's probably worth pointing out that what you just described (30 goals, + defense, excellent on the PK) is absolutely a #1 center.

Obviously not in the Crosby/Malkin/Sedin way, but if you figure there should be 30 #1 centers in the league each year, he's clearly on that list. He was top 15 last season in PPG as a 23-year-old, ahead of several guys who are seen as purely offensive #1 types.

And if this sounds like a Leaf fan trying to justify Burke blowing his brains out to trade for the guy, well... maybe.

I don't know if he'd perform that way if matched against #1 D pairs every night.

But I do agree 30g / 70 points is a #1 now.

[TurnerONU22]

It's a big week for the Rick Nash "sweepstakes". I'm guessing he'll be traded either tomorrow or Friday and I know that I'll be disappointed in the return. I'd like Howson to send him to SJ for Pavelski+Niemi+prospect, but I doubt that will happen. Especially with Harding resigning with MIN, the CBJ need a goalie in the worst way. I'd even be OK with a pick+Methot to VAN for Luongo, even with that contract.

And with the 2nd pick tomorrow, I expect that Howson will find a way to screw it up, by not picking either one of Yakupov or Murray, which I think are the top 2 players out there. The only one I wouldn't be as upset with is Galyenchuk, who I think is under the radar because of his injury this year. I'm not as high on Forsberg as the Jackets seem to be (which I hope is a smokescreen).

I'm trying to care about this team, but until they actually show some commitment to winning at the top (convincing John Davidson to come aboard would be a start), its hard for me to commit to following this team. I'm sure come the start of the season, it will be different, but we shall see.

An interesting side story: I'm teaching a chemistry class this summer at Ohio State and I had my students fill out a sheet to get to know them. Turns out that I have Brendan Arniel (ex-CBJ coach Scott Arniel's son) in my class. Small world.

[Grover]

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=635434&navid=DL|NHL|home

Flyers open up at home against the Bruins on Oct 11. Awesome.

[bhlloy]

Getting a little ahead of yourself there I think. A full season has got to be less than a 50/50 proposition right now

[Logan]

Agreed.

But if it were to happen, the Rangers open in LA to see the Cup banner raised. I hope it serves as motivation for the team.

Thanks to the next phase of renovations of MSG (and the delay in getting started thanks to the playoff run), NYR open with 8 straight on the road.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I watched very little of the NHL awards, but kept flipping back to catch Malkin on stage.

His acceptance speech for the Hart was pretty awesome.

Paraphrasing, but he said he'd like to dedicate the award to someone who has helped him alot during his 6 NHL seasons, especially when he was new to the league, language and country. And then says he's glad he met him because he considers him to be his best friend - Sergei Gonchar.

On a side note, while the Lindsay (Pearson) has only been around since 1972, only 5 players have won the Lindsay/Pearson, Hart, Art Ross and Conn Smythe at some point during their career-

Orr, Lafleur, Gretzky, Lemieux, and Malkin

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

In anticipation of the draft this weekend, the city has been holding different events in town. Yesterday, they closed down a bridge (this bridge gets closed regularly and used as a walkway from downtown to PNC Park) for a dek game

Top Prospects Trade Skates for Sneakers on Roberto Clemente Bridge - Pittsburgh Penguins - Features (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=635263&navid=DL|PIT|home)

http://2.cdn.nhle.com/penguins/images/upload/2012/06/prospects-on-bridge-6-20-2.jpg

[Grover]

Welp...

Bob McKenzie @TSNBobMcKenzie
Reply Retweet Favorite ·More
Breaking news: Hearing Jordan Staal turned down 10-yr mega offer from PIT. Has indicated to PIT he doesn't plan on signing extension now.

Bob McKenzie @TSNBobMcKenzie
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If Staal won't re-up in PIT, where he loves it, not expected to extend with anyone else who may trade for him. Except perhaps Carolina.

[Grover]

I watched very little of the NHL awards, but kept flipping back to catch Malkin on stage.



I thought the show, overall, was pretty awful.

The comedy was bad. Arnett was used pretty poorly in the Shanahan sketches, Morgan was all right in the 24/7 sketch. Calling Bryz the "Yoda of Hockey" was pretty brilliant though.

Too much comedy without laughs for me, though.

[Logan]

If he's willing to go to FA, there's another brother he could play with...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Welp...

Bob McKenzie @TSNBobMcKenzie
Reply Retweet Favorite ·More
Breaking news: Hearing Jordan Staal turned down 10-yr mega offer from PIT. Has indicated to PIT he doesn't plan on signing extension now.

Bob McKenzie @TSNBobMcKenzie
Reply Retweet Favorite ·More
If Staal won't re-up in PIT, where he loves it, not expected to extend with anyone else who may trade for him. Except perhaps Carolina.

If he's willing to go to FA, there's another brother he could play with...

Curious what a "mega offer" would be. If it's 10 years, but averages $5M, he'd be stupid to sign it.

Even if he extends with the Pens eventually, something like 3 years, $5.5M per, he'd still only be 26 coming out of that contract. And sign a "mega offer" then. Unless this thing was term and money, no reason for him to even look at it.

[Logan]

There's also the thought that he could legitimately not want to play behind Crosby/Malkin anymore, no?

[Grover]

Dreger is saying Staal turned down 10 years, $60 mil

[Suburban Rhythm]

There's also the thought that he could legitimately not want to play behind Crosby/Malkin anymore, no?

Agree, that's part of it too.

Now, would he be more agreeable to sticking behind them if the amount was $80M and not $60 (not suggesting the Pens pay him that)? Sure.


If he's willing to go to FA, there's another brother he could play with...

This always kills me too. If the lure of playing alongside his brother is so strong, why do we never hear of him maybe wanting to go to NY? Or Eric to NY? Or Marc to Carolina? Or poor Jared....to any team desparate enough to stick him on their roster?

HF cracks me up, dozens of posts immediately that he must be moving to Carolina, tomorrow.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Dreger is saying Staal turned down 10 years, $60 mil

If that's true, that's a LOT of money to turn down. Who knows what contracts will look like under the next CBA? Owners definitely want to reduce the amount the players get from 57% down to 50%, so that will certainly impact salaries. There will also likely be some rule to limit long term deals like this.

He must really be unhappy in Pittsburg if he's willing to walk away from $60 (or even $50) million guaranteed.

I blame Cindy Crosby!

[Suburban Rhythm]

This guy isn't very reliable, but...

Twitter / RobRossi_Trib: Source close to talks tell (http://twitter.com/RobRossi_Trib/status/215934125402636288)

Source close to talks tells @TribSports that Staal has not ruled out remaining w/ ‪#pens‬ but would talk contract if traded to ‪#canes‬

[Grover]

I find Rossi, and to a lesser extent Rorsabaugh (sp?) to be idiots. Seth in particular is one of the biggest homers I've ever come across.

Don't get me wrong, I hate most of Philly's beat writers too, with the exception of Sarah Baicker, Dave Isaac and Dave Strehle.

On the other hand, Dreger and McKenzie are two of the most respected in the biz.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I find Rossi, and to a lesser extent Rorsabaugh (sp?) to be idiots. Seth in particular is one of the biggest homers I've ever come across.

Don't get me wrong, I hate most of Philly's beat writers too, with the exception of Sarah Baicker, Dave Isaac and Dave Strehle.

On the other hand, Dreger and McKenzie are two of the most respected in the biz.

I hate Rossi. I love Rorabaugh's Empty Netters blog...but then again, it's for me (me, generallized, as a Pens fan).

Rossi, like most "journalists" now are intent on being first, not necessarily right.

Dave Molinari with the PG is the best in town.

Edit to add-

Dave Molinari ‏@MolinariPG
Don't expect Staal to be traded until/unless he asks to be, or if Shero decides Penguins can't re-sign him or wait any longer for decision.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Another rumor

@darenmillard #coyotes put yandle back In play. He was available for the right price @ the deadline. Deal is close. #sndraft

[Fidatelo]

Draft day!! Heading to a buddies place to watch with some friends, hoping for a couple trades and a good pick by Chevy. If I were in charge of the Jets right now I'd be looking to draft Faksa (assuming Galchenyuk and Forsberg are off the table). If not him, then one of the dozen defensemen that are littering the top of most peoples charts. I'd stay away from Grigorenko and any winger (Teravainenainan or whatever).

Draft day!!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Draft day!! Heading to a buddies place to watch with some friends, hoping for a couple trades and a good pick by Chevy. If I were in charge of the Jets right now I'd be looking to draft Faksa (assuming Galchenyuk and Forsberg are off the table). If not him, then one of the dozen defensemen that are littering the top of most peoples charts. I'd stay away from Grigorenko and any winger (Teravainenainan or whatever).

Draft day!!

Draft is in Pittsburgh....and I can't go :rant:

Today is my daughter's birthday, and tomorrow her party.

Sak is using my ticket for tonight. I think he said he's wearing a Crosby jersey tonight. Another friend has my tickets for tomorrow.

Would have been fun to go and watch the floor, try to pick out the deals being made.

Penguins...BPA at #22. Unless this whole Staal/Carolina thing comes about, and the Pens end up with Carolina's #8. I think there are the top 2-3 guys, then the next tier with all those D available. And then after 15 or so, I think those guys are interchangeable.

[Honolulu_Blue]

In a recent interview (yesterday) Detroit Red Wings Assistant GM Jim Nill said the Wings drafting philosophy is changing. They are looking for more size nowadays, since the old plan of drafting smaller players and waiting for them to get bigger and stronger no longer works under the current CBA. It will be interesting to see how that plays out in this draft.

In related news, it looks like the Wings are going to sign this year's Fabian Brunstrom/Ville Leino, Swiss forward Damien Brunner. Apparently he led the Swiss league in scoring by 9 points last year and impressed folks at the World Championship. He is also like 5'10", 186 lbs. So, not really the size Nill was talking about.

In any event, I am sure Brunner will love Grand Rapids. It's a nice little city.

[Suburban Rhythm]

In a recent interview (yesterday) Detroit Red Wings Assistant GM Jim Nill said the Wings drafting philosophy is changing. They are looking for more size nowadays, since the old plan of drafting smaller players and waiting for them to get bigger and stronger no longer works under the current CBA. It will be interesting to see how that plays out in this draft.

In related news, it looks like the Wings are going to sign this year's Fabian Brunstrom/Ville Leino, Swiss forward Damien Brunner. Apparently he led the Swiss league in scoring by 9 points last year and impressed folks at the World Championship. He is also like 5'10", 186 lbs. So, not really the size Nill was talking about.

In any event, I am sure Brunner will love Grand Rapids. It's a nice little city.

Back in 2008, the Pens signed Janne Pesonen from the Finnish league. He was the leading scorer, and for his efforts, got to wear a gold helmet, signifying just that - he's the league's leading scorer.

http://www.junnut.com/kausi0203/kuvat/251106ka_pelicans/tp/400/400/IMG_0064_.jpg

I hope Brunner has something equally awesome to bring over with him.

[Grover]

Phenomenal stuff as Homer continues to own Scott Howson.

Bobrovsky has been traded to Columbus for three draft picks, including #45 overall, according to TSN's Darren Dreger

[Suburban Rhythm]

Phenomenal stuff as Homer continues to own Scott Howson.

Bobrovsky has been traded to Columbus for three draft picks, including #45 overall, according to TSN's Darren Dreger

I thought it was illegal for Philly to hold any 2nd round picks. Ever.

[Grover]

McKenzie reporting it's #45 and two fourth rounders.

[Logan]

McKenzie reporting it's #45 and two fourth rounders.

One of the 4ths is a 2013 pick from Phoenix.

[johnnyshaka]

Seems like quite a bit for a backup goalie, no?

[Suburban Rhythm]

I can't wait until he's shipped to LA in February

[Grover]

Seems like quite a bit for a backup goalie, no?

Seems like quite a bit for a goalie that was 41st in save percentage and 40th in GAA

[Logan]

Seems like quite a bit for a goalie that was 41st in save percentage and 40th in GAA

And yet Howson is demanding 4-5 legitimate assets in return for one of the worst contracts in the NHL.

[johnnyshaka]

And yet Howson is demanding 4-5 legitimate assets in return for one of the worst contracts in the NHL.

Imagine what he'd want if Nash hadn't asked to be traded!

[RomaGoth]

Phenomenal stuff as Homer continues to own Scott Howson.

Bobrovsky has been traded to Columbus for three draft picks, including #45 overall, according to TSN's Darren Dreger

I almost feel bad for Columbus fans. Almost.

Howson continues to get fleeced by nearly every other GM in the league, but Homer must have pix of Howson's wife or something.

[Fidatelo]

Pretty poor trade for Columbus. Even if Bobrovsky turns into a decent starter (which I'm still betting against), given his existing body of work Howson shouldn't have had to give up that much to get him.

[chadritt]

Tim Thomas apparently waives his NMC but still says hes taking next year off anyway.

[RomaGoth]

In related news, it looks like the Wings are going to sign this year's Fabian Brunstrom/Ville Leino, Swiss forward Damien Brunner. Apparently he led the Swiss league in scoring by 9 points last year and impressed folks at the World Championship. He is also like 5'10", 186 lbs. So, not really the size Nill was talking about.

In any event, I am sure Brunner will love Grand Rapids. It's a nice little city.

He has been compared to Jiri Hudler with better speed. If he can come close to replacing 25 goals that we lose with Hudler leaving Detroit, we aren't doing too bad, especially considering he costs a fraction of what Huds will command on the open market. If he doesn't make the team, Grand Rapids can most definitely use him and the Wings lose nothing.

[RomaGoth]

Tim Thomas apparently waives his NMC but still says hes taking next year off anyway.

Methinks we have seen the last of TT in the NHL....

[Logan]

Tim Thomas apparently waives his NMC but still says hes taking next year off anyway.

Cap floor team?

[bbor]

Seriously?...For Bobrovsy?

W.T.F!

[Grover]

Lots of rumors the Flyers are trying to move up. I've been reading about the Ducks pick being the one they're after.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Seriously?...For Bobrovsy?

W.T.F!

But this paves the way for Luongo to Toronto!

[RomaGoth]

But this paves the way for Luongo to Toronto!

I think we all know Luongo will end up in Toronto. No way does Burke not make changes to the Leafs.

[bronconick]

And yet Howson is demanding 4-5 legitimate assets in return for one of the worst contracts in the NHL.

That's the only part that makes sense. He thinks Bob is worth three draft picks.

By comparison, Nash is worth about 6 assets.

He's completely wrong on both counts, but at least he has the consistency going

[Grover]

Anyone else watching Sports Talk on NBCSN? Pretty sure Pierre is wearing lipstick.

[RomaGoth]

Anyone else watching Sports Talk on NBCSN? Pretty sure Pierre is wearing lipstick.

Wouldn't be the first time.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Visnosvky to the Isle for a 2nd rounder.

[Danny]

"And with the 30th and final pick in the first round"

How sweet the sound!

[Pyser]

Caps acquire Mike Ribeiro from Stars for Cody Eakin and the 54th pick.

[Grover]

Caps acquire Mike Ribeiro from Stars for Cody Eakin and the 54th pick.

Sounds like the Stars are going to full-rebuild mode.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Caps acquire Mike Ribeiro from Stars for Cody Eakin and the 54th pick.

I hate Mike Ribeiro.

Alex Galchenyuk's mom... MILF.

[Grover]

I hate Mike Ribeiro.

Alex Galchenyuk's mom... MILF.

I hope you're not talking about that whorish looking woman in the teal dress.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I hope you're not talking about that whorish looking woman in the teal dress.

But of course. Don't be ridiculous.

Looking at that family shot again, it's possible she's his sister.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Instead of interviewing recent picks and their new GMs, can they just talk to Burke the whole time? That's good TV!

[Grover]

I like that Pierre is calling Hampus a steal "as a fast riser, I had him going 15-20"

That sounds more like a reach than a steal, Pierre.

[bronconick]

Jordan Staal to Carolina for 8th pick, Brandon Sutter, and Brian Dumolin.

[Grover]

Dumoulin is a steal for the Pens. I'm not just saying that because his brother is one of my best friends.

[Danny]

Wow,

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dumoulin is a steal for the Pens. I'm not just saying that because his brother is one of my best friends.

Really like Staal but that's a solid return. Sutter slots in that spot behind 87 and 71, at about 1/2 or 1/3 price of Staal. And not to sound too much like Pierre, this team's young D is FILTHY!

[Grover]

Brian should have been Big East POY this year and was a Hobey Baker finalist. He was unbelievable to watch in high school and at BC. I was hoping he'd get his chance in Carolina. He's an absolutely fantastic kid and a hard worker.

[bronconick]

Psst: Hockey East. ;)

[Grover]

Psst: Hockey East. ;)

yeah yeah

[Grover]

Defensive forward as a definite need for the Flyers. The pick is getting a ton of hate on Twitter though.

[bhlloy]

I don't know if you can possibly do better on day 1 of the draft than the Pens did. Staal is a nice player but they got back another NHL guy at the same position and added three probable top 4 defensemen. Pretty unbelievable stuff.

[Grover]

I really want Boston to take Malcolm Subban for the comedy.

[Grover]

Yandle to Pittsburgh is picking up some serious steam.

EDIT: Or maybe not...

Pierre LeBrun ‏@Real_ESPNLeBrun Pitt has dealt Z. Michalek to Phx in exchange for prospect Harrison Ruopp plus a 3rd-round pick this year (81st) and goalie Marc Cheverie.

[Wolfpack]

I don't know how to feel about the Staal trade as of yet. I feel like Carolina gave just a little too much on it. Sutter's a solid, though not spectacular two-way player, but very much a hard worker and character guy. He doesn't have huge statistical numbers, but he played center on Carolina's checking line and often was tasked with trying to cancel out other #1 lines rather than getting his own points. I really think the Dumoulin portion of the deal is what hurts, though. Carolina's defense is not that great and Dumoulin would have been a great asset to develop alongside Justin Faulk. I'm guessing JR felt the pressure to make a big move and must think that other d-men in the system can make the jump at some point.

I'm also uncertain who will or should take over the checking line center or whether Muller will look to roll three offense oriented lines and rely on an aggressive forecheck to play defense with, as it were. As it is, while it's nice to fantasize, I don't think Carolina has enough depth in the middle now to have Jordan at center and Eric on a wing, so Eric remains #1 and Jordan moves to #2. I think Eric's line help will have to come from some other trade or free agency acquisition, which pretty much means they'll be all-in to try to get Parise. If they whiff on getting him, there's not really a Plan B that I'm aware of to make up for the miss that could potentially make up the difference (unless they dump a sizeable chunk of the team to get Nash and that would still require Nash to waive his NTC).

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yandle to Pittsburgh is picking up some serious steam.

EDIT: Or maybe not...

Pierre LeBrun ‏@Real_ESPNLeBrun Pitt has dealt Z. Michalek to Phx in exchange for prospect Harrison Ruopp plus a 3rd-round pick this year (81st) and goalie Marc Cheverie.

Are the Pens dumping salary to gear up for a run at a Suter or Parise?

Apparently so, as the Pens tried to acquire Suter's rights...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yandle to Pittsburgh is picking up some serious steam.

EDIT: Or maybe not...

Pierre LeBrun ‏@Real_ESPNLeBrun Pitt has dealt Z. Michalek to Phx in exchange for prospect Harrison Ruopp plus a 3rd-round pick this year (81st) and goalie Marc Cheverie.

Not really a fan of this move. Michalek was no worse than the rest of the crew down the stretch and in the playoffs. And prefer him a ton over Martin. He's a 2nd pairing guy...but a really good 2nd pairing guy.

Are the Pens dumping salary to gear up for a run at a Suter or Parise?

Apparently so, as the Pens tried to acquire Suter's rights...

You could make the case that, on long term deals, they have enough room to sign Suter AND Parise. Certainly not likely...but nice to dream

And if they can still move Martin...another $5M (less whatever comes back).

Shero is doing the Paul Holmgren move to his D

I don't know how to feel about the Staal trade as of yet. I feel like Carolina gave just a little too much on it. Sutter's a solid, though not spectacular two-way player, but very much a hard worker and character guy. He doesn't have huge statistical numbers, but he played center on Carolina's checking line and often was tasked with trying to cancel out other #1 lines rather than getting his own points. I really think the Dumoulin portion of the deal is what hurts, though. Carolina's defense is not that great and Dumoulin would have been a great asset to develop alongside Justin Faulk. I'm guessing JR felt the pressure to make a big move and must think that other d-men in the system can make the jump at some point.

I'm also uncertain who will or should take over the checking line center or whether Muller will look to roll three offense oriented lines and rely on an aggressive forecheck to play defense with, as it were. As it is, while it's nice to fantasize, I don't think Carolina has enough depth in the middle now to have Jordan at center and Eric on a wing, so Eric remains #1 and Jordan moves to #2. I think Eric's line help will have to come from some other trade or free agency acquisition, which pretty much means they'll be all-in to try to get Parise. If they whiff on getting him, there's not really a Plan B that I'm aware of to make up for the miss that could potentially make up the difference (unless they dump a sizeable chunk of the team to get Nash and that would still require Nash to waive his NTC).

I would expect that the 3C job be up for grabs, but when holding a lead late, Jordan Staal fills that role. Even when Crosby was out (and the year before that, Crosby and Malkin), with leads, JS become the shutdown guy, and all the offensive zone starts went to Mark Letetsu and a bunch of other junk.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola

This from last night, before deal was completed


Dave Molinari ‏@MolinariPG
Hearing that Ottawa might be one of the teams interested in trading for D Zbynek Michalek. His brother, Milan, plays for the Senators.




No more players with brothers! You either sign all the brothers, or none of them!

[Suburban Rhythm]

TROLA

This is for Pumpy

https://p.twimg.com/AwC5YehCIAAcvLD.jpg

[Grover]

Dreger reporting the Flyers have traded JVR to Toronto for Luke Schenn.

I don't like it.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dreger reporting the Flyers have traded JVR to Toronto for Luke Schenn.

I don't like it.

I'm not a huge JVR fan, but that's still bad for Philly.

I don't see JVR as ever being the elite, 40+ guy. But still a solid 30-ish guy, which how many of those exist today? 8? 10?

But Schenn...ugh. Although, maybe they are making a pre-emptive move to keep Brayden around long term.

[Suburban Rhythm]

http://content.clearchannel.com/cc-common/mlib/1853/06/1853_1340632040.jpg

[RomaGoth]

http://content.clearchannel.com/cc-common/mlib/1853/06/1853_1340632040.jpg

I like how you photoshopped Gary Bettman out of this picture! :D

[RomaGoth]

This story is so damn funny and indicative of why the Blue Jackets and Islanders are both trainwrecks.

Report: Blue Jackets turned down Islanders' offer of entire draft for No. 2 pick (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/19419379/report-blue-jackets-turned-down-islanders-entire-draft-for-no-2-pick)

My favorite part of the story:

I also remembered it is Howson and Snow we're talking about. Not to say I would be better as a GM, surely I wouldn't come close, but this is a deal that EA Sports wouldn't even let you reject. It would literally not be an option, it was such an overwhelming deal.
How does Howson NOT agree to this deal if it is true. What a dipshit.

[Suburban Rhythm]

This story is so damn funny and indicative of why the Blue Jackets and Islanders are both trainwrecks.

Report: Blue Jackets turned down Islanders' offer of entire draft for No. 2 pick (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/19419379/report-blue-jackets-turned-down-islanders-entire-draft-for-no-2-pick)

My favorite part of the story:


How does Howson NOT agree to this deal if it is true. What a dipshit.

He felt Murray would look terrible in white?

http://blog.nola.com/saintsbeat/2009/04/medium_wedding.jpg

[Dr. Sak]

Congrats to our own Maple Leafs!

Down Goes Brown: Announcing "The Best of Down Goes Brown" - In bookstores this fall, available for pre-order now (http://www.downgoesbrown.com/2012/06/announcing-best-of-down-goes-brown-in.html)

Now where is my free advanced copy?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Congrats to our own Maple Leafs!

Down Goes Brown: Announcing "The Best of Down Goes Brown" - In bookstores this fall, available for pre-order now (http://www.downgoesbrown.com/2012/06/announcing-best-of-down-goes-brown-in.html)

Now where is my free advanced copy?

Saw that on Facebook today.

Very awesome!

Definitely will be picking it up. It's a great conversation starter:

"Yeah, this is an awesome hockey comedy/humor book written by a guy I know. Well, I don't really know him. He's been posting on the same message board that I post on about a text-based computer football game that I haven't played in about ten years, and... Here, just read the book."

edit: This has just been pre-ordered.

[Logan]

Saw it mentioned by McKenzie on Twitter (after DGB of course). Congrats man.

What puts more in your pocket...the regular version or ebook? Gotta know which is better for you to buy.

[Wolfpack]

79-cent price break on Amazon? That's it? :D

Seriously, congrats! I'll probably have to get it via Amazon or something since the bookstores around here don't exactly carry a wide selection of hockey books, especially snark-filled ones by bloggers from Canada (but I'm sure you knew that... :) ).

[Fidatelo]

Congrats Maple Leafs, that's awesome!!

[Fidatelo]

Dola

The Jets signed Pavelec today, 5yrs/19.5m. Seems a bit steep at 3.9m/yr, and about a year too long, but I think the Jets are going to have to slightly overpay pretty much everyone if they want people to stay. As long as they aren't grossly overpaying then I'm ok with it.

[chadritt]

Im guessing the KHL threat had a little to do with any slight overpayment? That franchise has also had zero luck with goalies so maybe theyre just scared to lose him

[Fidatelo]

Im guessing the KHL threat had a little to do with any slight overpayment? That franchise has also had zero luck with goalies so maybe theyre just scared to lose him

The KHL threat was likely just leverage, but I'm sure it helped Pavelec pry some extra cash away from True North. I'm not sure the franchise history would play much of a role given that none of the current parties (from owners to management to fans) have ties to that past.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Taylor Swift: Penguin Killer
http://content.clearchannel.com/cc-common/mlib/1853/06/1853_1340676745.jpg

Tyler Kennedy should watch his back

[RomaGoth]

That franchise has also had zero luck with goalies so maybe theyre just scared to lose him

I hear Bob Essensa is available. :p

[bhlloy]

I always enjoy our HOF debates

For me this year it's Sakic, Shanahan, Oates, Bure and my controversial pick is Phil Housely. And obviously it's a disgrace that Pat Burns isn't there already so him too.

Sundin and Roenick belong in eventually but I'm not sure I'd put them in over any of the above guys. Yes, even Housely. The guy is fourth all time in scoring among defencemen, second all time for American born players and one of the most underrated players of the last couple of decades IMO.

[bhlloy]

DOLA - I'd put Sundin in well before JR I think. Other than the period from 89-94 i think Roenick was completely overrated.

[Draft Dodger]

Housely should be in IMO

Roenick goes to the Sega HOF before the hockey HOF

[Fidatelo]

DOLA - I'd put Sundin in well before JR I think. Other than the period from 89-94 i think Roenick was completely overrated.

I'm not a big Roenick fan, but if you take out his poor year in 97/98 he put up (essentially) point-per-game numbers throughout the 94-01 period as well.

Roenick tailed off more than Sundin did, but he also had a much better peak. Frankly they are both overrated in my opinion.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Can't wait to see the Shanahan video suspending the HHOF committee

[Grover]

No Shero or Burns? Ridiculous.

That said, I agree with the rest.

[RomaGoth]

I always enjoy our HOF debates

For me this year it's Sakic, Shanahan, Oates, Bure and my controversial pick is Phil Housely. And obviously it's a disgrace that Pat Burns isn't there already so him too.

Sundin and Roenick belong in eventually but I'm not sure I'd put them in over any of the above guys. Yes, even Housely. The guy is fourth all time in scoring among defencemen, second all time for American born players and one of the most underrated players of the last couple of decades IMO.

DOLA - I'd put Sundin in well before JR I think. Other than the period from 89-94 i think Roenick was completely overrated.

I'm not a big Roenick fan, but if you take out his poor year in 97/98 he put up (essentially) point-per-game numbers throughout the 94-01 period as well.

Roenick tailed off more than Sundin did, but he also had a much better peak. Frankly they are both overrated in my opinion.

It is another black eye for the league that Shanahan didn't make it in. How the fuck Mats Sundin gets in over Shanny is beyond me. Maybe next year they will vote JR instead of Shanny. :confused:

[RomaGoth]

No Shero or Burns? Ridiculous.

That said, I agree with the rest.

Burns deserves it, and the fact that he isn't in yet is absurd.

[Honolulu_Blue]

It is another black eye for the league that Shanahan didn't make it in. How the fuck Mats Sundin gets in over Shanny is beyond me. Maybe next year they will vote JR instead of Shanny. :confused:

Eh, Shanny will get in sooner rather than later.

He totally deserves it.

[Fidatelo]

What makes Shanahan more deserving than JR or Sundin? I'd put them all in essentially the same 'grouping' myself. And off the cuff I think they are all borderline in terms of HHOF, although I'd have to review past inductees/nominees to see if my gut just has the bar too high.

[RomaGoth]

What makes Shanahan more deserving than JR or Sundin? I'd put them all in essentially the same 'grouping' myself. And off the cuff I think they are all borderline in terms of HHOF, although I'd have to review past inductees/nominees to see if my gut just has the bar too high.

Shanahan:

1524 games
656 goals
698 assists
1354 points
2489 penalty minutes
8 All Star Games
3 Stanley Cups

Sundin:

1346 games
564 goals
785 assists
1349 points
1093 penalty minutes
8 All Star Games
0 Stanley Cups

Shanny beats him in all of the major statistics except assists, and that is by less than 100. They tied in All Star Game appearances.

Sundin does not deserve to be in the HHOF over Shanahan under any circumstances, and I wonder how much of this has to do with Toronto being where Sundin played most of his career.

[RomaGoth]

Dola

Shanahan is also the only player in NHL history to have 600+ goals and 2000+ penalty minutes.

[Maple Leafs]

Sundin does not deserve to be in the HHOF over Shanahan under any circumstances, and I wonder how much of this has to do with Toronto being where Sundin played most of his career.
A few points:
- Sure, Shanahan had more points -- by five, in almost 200 more games
- Sundin would have had more all-star appearances if he hadn't declined them each year towards the end of his career (although eight is still enough for HOF in either case)
- You could make the argument that Shanahan, while great, was never the best player on his team (especially during the Red Wing years). Put Sundin on the Yzerman/Lidstromg-era Wings and he has plenty of Cups too
- Sundin also probably gets some boost from the international aspect -- first Euro #1 pick, first Euro captains, captain of a gold medal winner, etc.

I thought Shanahan would go in first ballot and push comes to shove I think he's a better candidate that Sundin, but the idea that it's not close is just wrong.

As for this nonsense about the fabled pro-Toronto bias, explain Pat Burns.

[Pyser]

devils beat writers are saying burns not getting in is to cover for them messing up 2 years ago when he was still alive. putting him in now, right after his death, makes it seem like it's to fix a mistake. there's really no rush anymore.

burns will get in, but i get not doing it right now, with that logic

[Maple Leafs]

But Burns died in 2010... they used that excuse last year.

[bhlloy]

Burns not getting in again is a million times the black eye that Shanny not getting in on the first ballot. I am pleasantly surprised that both Oates and Bure got in though.

Great day for Oates

[RomaGoth]

A few points:
- Sure, Shanahan had more points -- by five, in almost 200 more games
- Sundin would have had more all-star appearances if he hadn't declined them each year towards the end of his career (although eight is still enough for HOF in either case)
- You could make the argument that Shanahan, while great, was never the best player on his team (especially during the Red Wing years). Put Sundin on the Yzerman/Lidstromg-era Wings and he has plenty of Cups too
- Sundin also probably gets some boost from the international aspect -- first Euro #1 pick, first Euro captains, captain of a gold medal winner, etc.

I thought Shanahan would go in first ballot and push comes to shove I think he's a better candidate that Sundin, but the idea that it's not close is just wrong.

As for this nonsense about the fabled pro-Toronto bias, explain Pat Burns.

So you would penalize Shanahan because he wasn't the best player on his team? I believe Sundin deserves to be in the Hall, but to put him in ahead of arguably one of the best power forwards in NHL history and 3-time Cup winner is absurd imo. FWIW, I never said it wasn't close, I mentioned that Sundin does not deserve it over Shanahan.

At the end of the day it is a moot point though. Hopefully Shanny gets in next year ahead of Roenick.

[RomaGoth]

Burns not getting in again is a million times the black eye that Shanny not getting in on the first ballot.

I tend to agree with you. I wonder if Bettman will be inducted before Burns?

I am pleasantly surprised that both Oates and Bure got in though.

Great day for Oates

This is the understatement of the year. HHOF induction and NHL head coach hire all in the same day. Nice.

Still pissed the Wings traded him for Federko in '89. :mad:

[bhlloy]

If Bettman gets in it's time to burn the damn thing down

[RomaGoth]

If Bettman gets in it's time to burn the damn thing down

I couldn't find a picture of Bettman on fire but damnit if I didn't look for one.

[johnnyshaka]

If Burns were to go in this year then what would writers have to write about next year...and the year after that...and so on?

While I like to bash Toronto as much as the next guy, it would be ignorant to not point out that Shanny comes from Mimico, an old Toronto neighbourhood that has a rich history in hockey and lacrosse where the Shanahan name obviously figures prominently.

Also, Shanahan was also involved in the '87 WJHC brawl with Russia...go figure...that's gotta be worth something!

[Dr. Sak]

Will the man who eliminated the Leafs the last time they were in the playoffs (Roenick), go in the HHOF before the Leafs make it back into the playoffs?

[Maple Leafs]

So you would penalize Shanahan because he wasn't the best player on his team?
Yes, but only when it comes to how many Cups somebody won (which much of the pro-Shanahan arguement seems to be built on).

Winning a championship is a team achievement, so it's only fair to factor in what somebody's role on that team was. Otherwise you get into ridiculous scenarios where guys like Kirk Maltby are getting Hall votes because they had a hand full of rings as a fourth liner.

Put it this way: I'm far less impressed with Shanahan's three Cups as a quasi-complimentary player than I am with a guy like Sakic who won two as his team's undisputed franchise player.

[bbor]

Will the man who eliminated the Leafs the last time they were in the playoffs (Roenick), go in the HHOF before the Leafs make it back into the playoffs?


Why you gotta hurt?;)

[Maple Leafs]

Will the man who eliminated the Leafs the last time they were in the playoffs (Roenick), go in the HHOF before the Leafs make it back into the playoffs?
Roenick isn't a HOF player. He will never get in. Won't happen, ever, for all of eternity.

So in other words, it will be a tie.

[Logan]

So has anyone actually seen Justin Schultz play? I've been hoping for the Rangers to sign him since his name was brought up a few months ago as a possible pending UFA. But obviously I have no idea what I'm actually talking about. I do know he's the Rangers top priority this offseason, as we're desperate for a RHD to take top 4 minutes.

[Pyser]

every time this thread gets bumped i expect to read about parise.

getting nervous.

[Honolulu_Blue]

So has anyone actually seen Justin Schultz play? I've been hoping for the Rangers to sign him since his name was brought up a few months ago as a possible pending UFA. But obviously I have no idea what I'm actually talking about. I do know he's the Rangers top priority this offseason, as we're desperate for a RHD to take top 4 minutes.

Just YouTube clips.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Other than the brief respite that was the draft and yesterday with the Hall of Fame announcement, pretty much everything hockey-related thing I have read since the playoffs ended and Lidstrom retired can pretty much be summarized as follows:

Parise Parise Parise Suter Suter Parise Suter Schultz Suter Parise Parise Suter Schultz Wideman Parise Suter Semin Schultz Garrison Priase Suter Suter Suter Parise Carle Schultz Suter Parise Kuba Suter Suter Schultz Parise Salvador Suter

[johnnyshaka]

Yes, but only when it comes to how many Cups somebody won (which much of the pro-Shanahan arguement seems to be built on).

Winning a championship is a team achievement, so it's only fair to factor in what somebody's role on that team was. Otherwise you get into ridiculous scenarios where guys like Kirk Maltby are getting Hall votes because they had a hand full of rings as a fourth liner.

Put it this way: I'm far less impressed with Shanahan's three Cups as a quasi-complimentary player than I am with a guy like Sakic who won two as his team's undisputed franchise player.

ML, the Red Wings go 40'some years without winning the Cup and Shanny shows up and they win back to back and 3 of 6 during his first 6 seasons in Detroit. Two of those Cup winning seasons he led the team in points during the regular season and was 2nd on the team in playoff scoring.

I'd hardly call Shanahan a "quasi-complimentary player" for any of those Red Wings teams.

EDIT TO ADD: Regarding Sakic's "undisputed franchise player" tag, Roy and even Forsberg might have something to say about that. Don't get me wrong, Burnaby Joe should have been a no-brainer first ballot HOFer but, like Shanahan was apparently the missing "piece" in Detroit, Roy won more playoff games in his first season with that franchise than Sakic had even played in up to that point...coincidence?

No, I'm not arguing that Sakic's accomplishments aren't great, because they are, but I think you need to give Shanny a little more credit.

[Danny]

Kings going to repeat

[Honolulu_Blue]

So the flames trade Jordan Hendry and a 5th round pick to Washington for the rights to Dennis Wideman and then sign him to a 5 year deal with an annual cap hit of $5.25 million.

If Dennis Wideman can make $5.25 million a year, I am terrified to see what Suter and Parise will get.

Yikes!

[Suburban Rhythm]

So the flames trade Jordan Hendry and a 5th round pick to Washington for the rights to Dennis Wideman and then sign him to a 5 year deal with an annual cap hit of $5.25 million.

If Dennis Wideman can make $5.25 million a year, I am terrified to see what Suter and Parise will get.

Yikes!

Wasn't it only a few years ago, the Flames had one of the best D corps in the league? Now they have JayBo and Wideman for a combined $12M a year
:confused:

[Grover]

$5.25M for a defenseman that doesn't defend is amazing.

[Dr. Sak]

Why you gotta hurt?;)

Roenick isn't a HOF player. He will never get in. Won't happen, ever, for all of eternity.

So in other words, it will be a tie.

The Leafs are one of the few teams left with a longer Cup drought than the Flyers. So I have to kick whoever I can...

[RomaGoth]

$5.25M for a defenseman that doesn't defend is amazing.

How much was Mike Green making in Washington? :)

[RomaGoth]

Yes, but only when it comes to how many Cups somebody won (which much of the pro-Shanahan arguement seems to be built on).

Winning a championship is a team achievement, so it's only fair to factor in what somebody's role on that team was. Otherwise you get into ridiculous scenarios where guys like Kirk Maltby are getting Hall votes because they had a hand full of rings as a fourth liner.

Put it this way: I'm far less impressed with Shanahan's three Cups as a quasi-complimentary player than I am with a guy like Sakic who won two as his team's undisputed franchise player.

ML, the Red Wings go 40'some years without winning the Cup and Shanny shows up and they win back to back and 3 of 6 during his first 6 seasons in Detroit. Two of those Cup winning seasons he led the team in points during the regular season and was 2nd on the team in playoff scoring.

I'd hardly call Shanahan a "quasi-complimentary player" for any of those Red Wings teams.

EDIT TO ADD: Regarding Sakic's "undisputed franchise player" tag, Roy and even Forsberg might have something to say about that. Don't get me wrong, Burnaby Joe should have been a no-brainer first ballot HOFer but, like Shanahan was apparently the missing "piece" in Detroit, Roy won more playoff games in his first season with that franchise than Sakic had even played in up to that point...coincidence?

No, I'm not arguing that Sakic's accomplishments aren't great, because they are, but I think you need to give Shanny a little more credit.

My response to ML was along the same lines as Johnnyshaka's so I won't rehash it here. I also believe that Sakic is a first ballot hall of famer, but I am fairly certain that Forsberg, Hejduk, and Roy had something to do with his playoff success as well. Much like Shanahan and company won their cups, it is a team game at the end of the day and I nobody will convince me that Sundin deserved it over Shanahan in the same ballot year.

[RomaGoth]

So the flames trade Jordan Hendry and a 5th round pick to Washington for the rights to Dennis Wideman and then sign him to a 5 year deal with an annual cap hit of $5.25 million.

If Dennis Wideman can make $5.25 million a year, I am terrified to see what Suter and Parise will get.

Yikes!

This is a ridiculous salary and the Flames are going to burn out on this one!



(see what I did there?) :D

[Grover]

How much was Mike Green making in Washington? :)

According to CapGeek he made $5.25M last year.

Apparently this is the going rate for a fourth forward on the ice every third defensive shift.

[RomaGoth]

According to CapGeek he made $5.25M last year.

Apparently this is the going rate for a fourth forward on the ice every third defensive shift.

And the NHL wonders why they are constantly struggling financially. High ticket prices, seldom sold out arenas, and inflated salaries. Sounds like a recipe for success to me.

[bronconick]

And the NHL wonders why they are constantly struggling financially. High ticket prices, seldom sold out arenas, and inflated salaries. Sounds like a recipe for success to me.

Can't wait for them to sit down in a couple months and tell the players that they simply can't continue to give up this % of the revenue. How Feaster ever blundered into the 2004 Stanley Cup I'll never know.

[Grover]

And the Wings are out of the Schultz sweepstakes.

[Maple Leafs]

EDIT TO ADD: Regarding Sakic's "undisputed franchise player" tag, Roy and even Forsberg might have something to say about that.
Roy sure, although top goalies are always franchise players.

Forsberg was just finishing his first full season when Avs won their first Cup, and he was injured for their second one.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Darren Dreger ‏@DarrenDreger
Expect the Penguins to announce Sidney Crosby's contract extension on Sunday. Over $100 million dollars with an AAV of close to $9 mil per.



$9M, with the cap going up? Yes please

[Matthean]

$9M, with the cap going up? Yes please

$100 million dollar contract over 12-13 years for a guy who sat out twice last year due to concussions. Um, OK.

[Suburban Rhythm]

$100 million dollar contract over 12-13 years for a guy who sat out twice last year due to concussions. Um, OK.

If he plays one game this season, gets decapitated and dies. Guess how much of that cap hit remains for the next 12-13 years?

If he plays one game this season, gets concussed, sits out the rest of the year, guess how much of that cap hit remains?

Assuming the insurance premium is less that the $9M or so they'd be paying him, there is no risk. He's healthy, he plays, and is one of the best players in the league. He's injured, he goes on IR, cap space opens, and insurance covers the guaranteed contract.

[Logan]

Yeah they'll be just fine.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Still $8.7M

Pens Agree To Terms With Sidney Crosby On 12-Year, $104.4 Million Contract Extension - Pittsburgh Penguins - News (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=636340&navid=DL|PIT|home)

[Pyser]

I'm sure the pens will still be fine, but espy says:

His new contract will not be fully insurable, both because of his history of head injuries and because no NHL contract longer than seven years is fully insurable. Full details likely will not be known until the extension is officially announced.

[JPhillips]

I really like how the Caps are getting some return for their UFAs. Neither pick will probably amount to anything, but getting free lottery tickets is a good plan.

[Logan]

I'm sure the pens will still be fine, but espy says:

His new contract will not be fully insurable, both because of his history of head injuries and because no NHL contract longer than seven years is fully insurable. Full details likely will not be known until the extension is officially announced.

The important piece though is the (non) cap impact that would come with an injury, not necessarily the dead money on the Penguins' income statement. Unless the Pens financial situation is much worse than one would figure...

[Suburban Rhythm]

I'm sure the pens will still be fine, but espy says:

His new contract will not be fully insurable, both because of his history of head injuries and because no NHL contract longer than seven years is fully insurable. Full details likely will not be known until the extension is officially announced.

The important piece though is the (non) cap impact that would come with an injury, not necessarily the dead money on the Penguins' income statement. Unless the Pens financial situation is much worse than one would figure...

This is older, but point is the same

http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2008/09/Issue-245/Leagues-Governing-Bodies/NHL-Insurance-Plan-Covers-Player-Contracts-For-Seven-Years.aspx

The NHL's insurance plan insures player contracts for seven years, and "beyond that, if the player gets hurt, the team is on the hook for the full amount of his contract," according to Luke DeCock of the Raleigh NEWS & OBSERVER.

DeCock noted individual teams "are free to pursue additional coverage, but the heavy premiums make it a losing proposition."

So, the first 7 years would be covered. The additional 5...possible they've obtained outside insurance. Or, Ron Burkle will lose a few million.

The big point to the team, on the ice, is there is no risk of tying of cap space.

[Fidatelo]

This is older, but point is the same

http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2008/09/Issue-245/Leagues-Governing-Bodies/NHL-Insurance-Plan-Covers-Player-Contracts-For-Seven-Years.aspx



So, the first 7 years would be covered. The additional 5...possible they've obtained outside insurance. Or, Ron Burkle will lose a few million.

The big point to the team, on the ice, is there is no risk of tying of cap space.

I haven't seen details of the contract, but could Pittsburgh account for this by front-loading it in those first 7 years? So the cap hit stays at 8.7, they pay him as much of that money as possible in the first 7 years, then the uninsured portion only represents a comparatively small number of millions over the rest of the deal.

[chadritt]

Kings, Quick agree in principle on 10-year deal - Los Angeles Kings - Press Releases (http://kings.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=636351)

[Danny]

Woot! Kings going to be contenders for quite a while.

[bbor]

Is 10 years going to the standard NHL contact now???

[Danny]

Wow, Quick deal is quite affordable. 10 years 58 million so only a 5.8m a year cap hit for a young stud goalie

[Suburban Rhythm]

Is 10 years going to the standard NHL contact now???

Wow, Quick deal is quite affordable. 10 years 58 million so only a 5.8m a year cap hit for a young stud goalie

Wonder what Richards and Carter will tell him about those 10+ year deals?

[Grover]

The Quick deal (especially the cap hit) makes the Pavelec deal look terrible by comparison.

[Pyser]

The Quick deal (especially the cap hit) makes the Pavelec deal look terrible by comparison.

thats also the difference between living in winnipeg vs la, or winning the cup vs playing in winnipeg

[Danny]

Seeing quick in interviews over the years I am not surprised he would give the kings a hometown discount.

[Danny]

It's also about personality, it's clear when seeing quick that he is not all about the money

[Grover]

Rich Hammond @lakingsinsider
Reply Retweet Favorite ·More
Patrik Elias will return the Game 6 puck to the Kings. He apparently found it in his equipment bag after he returned from vacation.


Whoops.

[RomaGoth]

Hal Gill re-signs with Nashville for 2 years at $2mil/year.

[Grover]

Hal Gill re-signs with Nashville for 2 years at $2mil/year.

Yay! A lot of beat writers/columnists had him going to Philly. We may wear orange, but we don't need a traffic cone in the d-pairings.

[Pumpy Tudors]

TROLA

This is for Pumpy

https://p.twimg.com/AwC5YehCIAAcvLD.jpg
Shiiiiit.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Darren Dreger
‏@DarrenDreger


Martin Brodeur very likely to test free agent market. Brodeur has hired Pat Brisson (CAA) to represent him. Bidders get ready!



:confused:

[Logan]

Yeah that was certainly an interesting thing to read. I can't comprehend it.

[Chief Rum]

What's to understand? Marty is an unrestricted free agent who does not have an extension, ergo he is about to become a free agent able to sign with anyone.

The basic facts of the situation seem clear.

Now, if you're just having trouble accepting that a longtime and reknowned one team player would actually consider leaving his team for another, I get that. It would be very odd to see Brodeur in anything but Devils gear.

[Logan]

It's because there has not been a single word uttered about his contract status all season.

[Suburban Rhythm]

What's to understand? Marty is an unrestricted free agent who does not have an extension, ergo he is about to become a free agent able to sign with anyone.

The basic facts of the situation seem clear.

Now, if you're just having trouble accepting that a longtime and reknowned one team player would actually consider leaving his team for another, I get that. It would be very odd to see Brodeur in anything but Devils gear.

Yes, the 2nd part. Brodeur has not had an agent for some time now. His last 2 or 3 deals he negotiated on his own. So even him hiring an agent seems odd.
Of course, as I thought about it, it's making more sense.

Brodeur signs an agent, seems likely to leave NJ. Parise probably follows him out of Newark.

The agent in question...Pat Brisson. Who else does Brisson represent? Sidney Crosby (and Malkin)

Crosby just signed a long term deal, below market value.

Ergo, welcome to Pittsburgh Mr. Parise.

Now that I've written it all out, seems rather simple.

[RomaGoth]

Yes, the 2nd part. Brodeur has not had an agent for some time now. His last 2 or 3 deals he negotiated on his own. So even him hiring an agent seems odd.
Of course, as I thought about it, it's making more sense.

Brodeur signs an agent, seems likely to leave NJ. Parise probably follows him out of Newark.

The agent in question...Pat Brisson. Who else does Brisson represent? Sidney Crosby (and Malkin)

Crosby just signed a long term deal, below market value.

Ergo, welcome to Pittsburgh Mr. Parise.

Now that I've written it all out, seems rather simple.

Wouldn't be surprised to see Parise in Pittsburgh next year. However, I would be surprised if Suter goes anywhere besides Detroit or stays with Nashville.

[Grover]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v651/Kid_Roll/luongosave.gif

[Draft Dodger]

Pat Brisson represents a TON of players who don't play for the Penguins

[Suburban Rhythm]

This is just getting weirder

@RenLavoieRDS Translated- A very reliable source tells me that Martin Brodeur could well end up with either the Panthers or Lightning.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pat Brisson represents a TON of players who don't play for the Penguins

I am choosing not to recognize this

[Grover]

Marty? Going to Florida?

Will he be living at Del Boca Vista Phase III?

[Draft Dodger]

but I thought Luongo was going to Florida?

[Honolulu_Blue]

but I thought Luongo was going to Florida?

I thought so too.

With the Schneider signing, the Canucks have $9.33 million tied up in goaltending, which is about half the amount the 03-04 Wings had tied up in goaltending.

[RomaGoth]

Marty? Going to Florida?

but I thought Luongo was going to Florida?

One of the best goaltending tandoms in the NHL!

[Honolulu_Blue]

I kind of like the idea of Marty in Tampa. Tampa just traded for Lindback, that Nashville back-up. They have Garon under contract, but perhaps Marty would be good their as a mentor for Lindback and someone who can log some serious minutes in case Lindback isn't quite ready for the starting gig.

[RomaGoth]

Bob McKenzie ‏<s>@</s>TSNBobMcKenzie (http://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie)

COL agrees to terms with Steve Downie on 2 year deal, $2.55M in first year and $2.75M in second. $2.65M AAV.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Bob McKenzie ‏<S>@</S>TSNBobMcKenzie (http://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie)

COL agrees to terms with Steve Downie on 2 year deal, $2.55M in first year and $2.75M in second. $2.65M AAV.

Tons of other smaller signings

Entire 4th line returns to NJ, including (LA) Finals hero Steve Bernier

Stempniak and Sarich staying with Calgary

Moen staying with Habs

[Logan]

Down to Edmonton and Ottawa for Schultz.

[Grover]

Down to Edmonton and Ottawa for Schultz.

McKenzie just reported it's going to be Edmonton.

[Honolulu_Blue]

McKenzie just reported it's going to be Edmonton.

Good.

Now we get to see if he was worth all of this hoopla.

[bhlloy]

I wish I could say good luck to him but I hope he crashes and burns. By all accounts he screwed the Ducks on this and promised he would sign in the summer to multiple peoples faces. I'd usually never take anything our GM says at face value but on this one it sounds legit.

[Draft Dodger]

you can go more or less anywhere and you pick Edmonton because....


????

[Chief Rum]

I wish I could say good luck to him but I hope he crashes and burns. By all accounts he screwed the Ducks on this and promised he would sign in the summer to multiple peoples faces. I'd usually never take anything our GM says at face value but on this one it sounds legit.

+1

This kid better run and hide when Anaheim comes to town. I'm gonna guess every player on the roster with a fighting major on his record is going to take a run at this guy.

[Grover]

I'm with HB on this. I want to see if he was actually worth the hype. He wasn't a particularly high draft pick (43, I believe). He broke his word to go to a team that's still building, when he could have stuck with a team that is re-building in the Ducks. Either way, he'd be part of a project.

I think the Oilers will be damn good in 3-4 years if they can keep the pieces together, but I'm not sure Schultz is worth all the hype he's gotten the past 2-3 weeks. Time will tell.

[Chief Rum]

I'm with HB on this. I want to see if he was actually worth the hype. He wasn't a particularly high draft pick (43, I believe). He broke his word to go to a team that's still building, when he could have stuck with a team that is re-building in the Ducks. Either way, he'd be part of a project.

I think the Oilers will be damn good in 3-4 years if they can keep the pieces together, but I'm not sure Schultz is worth all the hype he's gotten the past 2-3 weeks. Time will tell.

I also disagree that the Ducks are a project. They definitely need to fix some stuff from last year, but from January 1 on, they were among the best teams in the NHL. I don't recall if they ended up with the most points after that date, but it was close. Their mysterious and awful slump to start the season cost Carlyle his job (rightfully).

Although we'll have to see what happens with Ryan, this is still a team that would seem to have one of the best lines in hockey, a GK that is just a year removed from being one of the best in hockey as well and some quality youth at spots that needs to develop just a little (on the blue line and for the second line). And that doesn't mention if old man Teemu comes back, which he might.

This Ducks team this past season VASTLY underachieved against its talent, and most of that talent is still in the organization.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Matt Niskanen, 2 years/ $2.3M per returning to Pittsburgh. If Pittsburgh somehow lands Suter, Paul Martin free to a good home

Paul Gaustad 4 year/ $3.25M per...gah...3 million for a guy I'm not even sure is a 3rd line center on a contending team. Great at what he does - faceoffs and shadow opponent's - but not at that price.

Biron back to NYR
Emelin back to Habs

And more goofy shit along the lines of the Brodeur stuff

Shane Doan says he's not signing anywhere until July 8th. I don't see alot of the top teams willing to wait a week, holding a spot, and letting other players sign elsewhere, hoping he chooses them. I'd love him in Pittsburgh, but just say you're signing with Phoenix and move forward

[johnnyshaka]

Nice to have something go the Oilers' way in terms of a FA signing for a change. While I feel for the Ducks as they got screwed over, we also had a college kid to the same thing to us (Riley Nash) a few years ago...so, been there, done that.

Not sure what all was said and promised (other than a few phone calls from a couple of HoFers) but I think loads of PP time and likely top 4 minutes on a young team is probably what did it. Also, being close to home, but not too close, probably helped out, too.

Either way, colour me surprised as the media hype giving us a better than good chance at landing him definitely had me expecting the usual results...thanks, but no thanks, Edmonton.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Rumored Jordan Staal accepts 10 years $60mil from Carolina

[bronconick]

Dirty Dangle: 2012 NHL Free Agent Frenzy Drinking Game (http://www.dirtydangle.com/2012/06/2012-nhl-free-agent-frenzy-drinking.html)

Here you go. Make sure your wife or a friend is available to call 911 around 1:15 eastern.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wings sign Jonas "The Monster" Gustavsson to backup Howard. 2 years at $1.5 million each.

Sweden.

[Grover]

Flyers have made offers to Carle, Parise and Suter.

With what money? I'm not exactly sure.

[Wolfpack]

Rumored Jordan Staal accepts 10 years $60mil from Carolina

'Tis true, which brings a couple of things to mind: gosh, that's a long time, but it'll be his prime years (I will cry if I start hearing the phrase "injury risk" attached to Jordan Staal starting in the next couple of years). The other thing is that it'll probably take a big turn of events for Eric not to re-sign the next time he's up for FA. It'd be a right mess if the Canes screw up something with Eric while having his brother under contract for such a long period.

Oh, and once again, Jim Rutherford heads to the recycling bin...hey, wait a minute! That's Joe Corvo's music! (Signed for a year at $2 mill. Rampant speculation on the internet is that this puts McBain on the trade block.)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Arron Asham to Rangers.

Which means he gets the "I've played for all 5 Atlantic division teams, and all I got was this lousy T-shirt!" shirt.

[Grover]

RT @RealKyper: #NHL. Starting to hear Suter has picked #Redwings as his destination. More to come.....

10+ years, 80+ mil?

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Wings sign Jordan Tootoo 3 years and $1.9 million each.

They also welcome Mikael Samuelsson back into the fold for a 2 year deal at $3 million each.

Not sure about either signing. The Wings don't have many roster spots open.

[Grover]

Sheldon Souray to the ducks for 3 years and $11 mil

[Suburban Rhythm]

Sheldon Souray to the ducks for 3 years and $11 mil

Boy...really glad we missed that year to get crazy contracts reined in...

Edit to add
I do see Bryan Allen signing with Anaheim for $3.5M per, which I like for the Ducks.

[Grover]

Jason Garrison to the Canucks for 6 years, $4.6M per season.

Crazy contracts indeed.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Jason Garrison to the Canucks for 6 years, $4.6M per season.

Crazy contracts indeed.

As dumb as this may sound, I have less problem with Garrison's deal, although it is too much, and probably 2 years too long.

But Souray...he wasn't bad for Dallas last year. But that was after being bought out by arguably the worst team in the league and signing a 1 year deal with Dallas. Now that guy, who nobody wanted multiple times on re-entry, is worth almost $4m a year?

[bhlloy]

The answer to your question is that Bob Murray is a fucking moron

[Suburban Rhythm]

The answer to your question is that Bob Murray is a fucking moron

Still, scrolling through all of today's deals...

Sami Salo got $3.75M per in Tampa. Only 2 years. But, pretty sure his wrist shattered picking up the pen to sign.

I like Allen. Assuming Pens miss out on Suter, which seems the case, I'd have given Allen $3M+ for a couple years.

But Souray worth more than Allen? What is this?

[bhlloy]

Serious answer, the salary floor is the most ridiculous rule in any major sport right now. It's completely counterproductive. Those elite FA don't usually end up with teams that are under the floor for obvious reasons, so there's nothing left to do but overpay what remains.

Don't quote me on this but I think I remember reading that 19 teams were under the floor to start FA. It's absolute madness and seems a pretty good way to start losing teams if it carries on for much longer.

[britrock88]

What's worse is that the floor is not a percentage of the salary cap, but merely a difference ($16M less). So the freedom of teams to spend has been relative constrained as the cap at shot up from the $40s (when there was almost a 40% difference between the floor and the cap) and $70m where it is now (barely a 20% difference).

[Dr. Sak]

Looks like Marty B is staying in NJ...

Fire & Ice (http://blogs.northjersey.com/blogs/fireice/report_brodeur_re-signs_with_devils_for_two_more_years/)

[MacroGuru]

Sabres sign John Scott.

Not a big deal so to speak but it is huge in terms of the Sabres bringing in someone to ensure the Lucic / Miller incident never happens again.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Huh.

Reports are stating that Radulov signed with some CSKA Moscow of the KHL (Sergei Fedorov, GM) for a 4 year $36 million deal. $9 million a year for Radulov. Wow.

As for the Tootoo signing. I don't like it. He's a small, little agitating punk bitch. I like that he hits, but he's a rat. I would much rather have a guy who is more of a stand up physical player. Prust went to Montreal for 4 years at $2.5 million. I would much rather have him at $600,000 more a year. He can also kill penalties. Tootoo was a healthy scratch in Nashville during the playoffs, while Prust played big minutes in NYC.