The Official NHL Offseason (Cindy-free Zone) thread

[Suburban Rhythm]

As to not clutter up the playoff thread

[Suburban Rhythm]

Ovechkin - Hart
Crosby - Lindsay
Subban - Norris
Huberdeau - Calder
Bobrovsky - Vezina

[Honolulu_Blue]

Well done with the thread title, SB.

[bbor]

Wow...What's a Detroit fan doing posting in this Off-season thread before the finals are over??....oh wait.... :p

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wow...What's a Detroit fan doing posting in this Off-season thread before the finals are over??....oh wait.... :p

Look who's getting all fat and sassy after their first playoffs appearance in, what, a decade or so? Slow your roll, Chalupa! :)

[bbor]

Sadly,i'm sure the Wings will win 2 or 3 more cups before the Leafers do.

Chances are that Petr Klimas hair will likely come back into style again before the Leafs win a cup.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Interesting note on media voting for awards.

Pascal Dupuis finished 7th in Selke voting. He's pretty good defensively. Really good skater, solid on the PK.

But, Chris Kunitz finished 13th. And Crosby 15th!

How in the world did anyone score on a line that had 3 of the top 15 defensive forwards in the league!?!?! :p

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pavel Datsyuk, 3 year extension.

[DaddyTorgo]

Bergy getting robbed in the Selke voting. Grrrrr

[Suburban Rhythm]

Bergy getting robbed in the Selke voting. Grrrrr

But he did get the King Clancy, that's gotta be worth something, right?

[DaddyTorgo]

But he did get the King Clancy, that's gotta be worth something, right?

True. And I'm sure you ask him he'd rather have Lord Stanley's Cup than the Selke.

[Suburban Rhythm]

To further highlight why media people shouldn't be voting on these...

Toews had 167 total votes.
Bergeron, 164.

3 writers left him off their ballot entirely.

ETA: Most recent # I can find, 2011 there were 177 members of the PHWA. So some guys aren't even submitting ballots most likely.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pavel Datsyuk, 3 year extension.

$7.5m per

[Honolulu_Blue]

This news makes me happy.

[Suburban Rhythm]

LA signs Slava Voynov to 6 year, $25m extension ($4.167m)

SJ signs Logan Couture to 5 year, $30m extension ($6m)

Philly agrees* with Mark Streit to 4 year, $21m deal ($5.25m)

* Will not have cap space to complete deal until, as rumored, Bryzgalov and Briere bought out on July 1

[Danny]

Woot, got Voynov locked up long term!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Woot, got Voynov locked up long term!

I really like that deal. He's not a #1...but he's a top 3 on any team in the league.

[EagleFan]

Figures a Penguins fan would be whining just like Cindy.

[Dr. Sak]

Figures a Penguins fan would be whining just like Cindy.

The Pens didn't trade for enough captains or can't miss players this year to go along with having 2 of the top 5 players in the league and one of the top 10 defensemen in the league. They just needed one or two more players and they would've had it!

[EagleFan]

The Pens didn't trade for enough captains or can't miss players this year to go along with having 2 of the top 5 players in the league and one of the top 10 defensemen in the league. They just needed one or two more players and they would've had it!

lol, they have the same viewpoint of the Finals as the Flyers do and the Flyers don't have the shame of being the "hands down favorites" to win it all and not even make the finals.

[EagleFan]

The thread title is just a Penguins fan's tantrum after being asked to take it to another thread because they were taking up space in the Playoff thread talking about their crappy team/players. It's the finals, talk Bruins and Blackhawks in that thread now (show their fans some respect, their teams earned it). Not who did what in the regular season from a team watching the finals on TV.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The Pens didn't trade for enough captains or can't miss players this year to go along with having 2 of the top 5 players in the league and one of the top 10 defensemen in the league. They just needed one or two more players and they would've had it!

But not THE top player. Laviolette announced who that was last year.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Figures a Penguins fan would be whining just like Cindy.

Only somebody not really interested in the games would continually throw out "Cindy". It reeks of fanboy inferiority complex.

Never fear. Philly will win some year, if they keep signing a new goalie every two years, and defensemen to 35+ contracts, it's bound to work at some point.

[EagleFan]

Only somebody not really interested in the games would continually throw out "Cindy". It reeks of fanboy inferiority complex.

Never fear. Philly will win some year, if they keep signing a new goalie every two years, and defensemen to 35+ contracts, it's bound to work at some point.

Waaaaaaa waaaaaaaaa.... typical Penguin fan...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Waaaaaaa waaaaaaaaa.... typical Penguin fan...

This thread is for talking about the offseason.

Maybe start an "Obsessed with players and teams other than my own" thread?

[britrock88]

Okay, guys. 26 other teams are watching the Finals, too.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Congrats to the Grand Rapids Griffins winnings the Calder Cup!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Okay, guys. 26 other teams are watching the Finals, too.

Yeah, but Toronto doesn't count, they're used to it

[bbor]

Yeah, but Toronto doesn't count, they're used to it

Zing.....


Another upset PIT fan that we didn't beat the Bruins.:p

[Suburban Rhythm]

Zing.....


Another upset PIT fan that we didn't beat the Bruins.:p

What you guys needed is a proven, Stanley Cup winning goaltender. Therefore, Marc-Andre Fleury is yours. We'll call it even.

[Fidatelo]

Jets/Capitals get to square off in some place called Stirling-Rowden, last years Kraft Hockeyville, for a pre-season game in September.

Yay?

[Suburban Rhythm]

PING claphamsa

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=674409&navid=nhl:topheads


Joe Sakic (http://www.nhl.com/ice/player.htm?id=8451101), the executive vice president of hockey operations for the Avalanche, told The Denver Post on Tuesday night they will pass on the top-rated defenseman and instead choose between forwards Nathan MacKinnon (http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=82219), Jonathan Drouin (http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=81984) or Alexander Barkov (http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=67613).
"If we do pick first, we're leaning more toward one of those three forwards," Sakic told the paper. "We feel those three forwards are just too good to pass up."

[claphamsa]

well, Ill have to put my faith in Joe, as I dont know shit :) that being said, Center isnt really a need... and D is a huge need.... so.....

[Suburban Rhythm]

If they truly believe Mackinnon is the best player, then so be it.

More shocking to me that saying anything like this seems so out of character for Joe.

[claphamsa]

If they truly believe Mackinnon is the best player, then so be it.

More shocking to me that saying anything like this seems so out of character for Joe.

yeah, maybe its a smoke screen to try to up the price to trade the pick.... maybe FLA really wants Mac....

[Passacaglia]

Congrats to the Grand Rapids Griffins winnings the Calder Cup!

I guess now that the Calder Cup is in the Calder City, all is right with the world.

[Draft Dodger]

well, Ill have to put my faith in Joe, as I dont know shit :) that being said, Center isnt really a need... and D is a huge need.... so.....

not super surprised. MacKinnon just seems more and more like a guy that you don't want to let go.

if there was a guarantee that Jones would reach his potential, I think they'd take him. But top ranked D are no sure thing (which the Avs can see first hand in Erik Johnson)

edit - in the SBN mock draft, we took MacKinnon and Florida took Drouin with Jones falling to 3rd
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl-mock-draft

[Suburban Rhythm]

There are people who like Drouin as the BPA.

From things I've read the comparisons I've seen most often:

Mackinnon = Tavares w/ speed
Drouin = Kane/Giroux
Jones = Pietrangelo/Niedermayer

[Dr. Sak]

But not THE top player. Laviolette announced who that was last year.

Right that's why I said two of the top five...not the Top player in the world and another top 5 player ;)

[MacroGuru]

Rumor has it Lindy Ruff is going to sign on to coach the Stars....

[Suburban Rhythm]

Jonathan Bernier to Toronto.

I didn't think Reimer was too bad. Pushed Boston to 7 games, had them beaten until the team as a whole shit the bed.

[Maple Leafs]

Jonathan Bernier to Toronto.

I didn't think Reimer was too bad. Pushed Boston to 7 games, had them beaten until the team as a whole shit the bed.
Yeah, it's a strange deal. Reimer was top ten in every major category last year, yet going back to the weeks leading up to the deadline the Leafs have been focused on getting anyone they could find to replace him.

The price for Bernier wasn't exorbitant, but it just seems like an odd use of resources for a team with so many other glaring holes.

[EagleFan]

This thread is for talking about the offseason.

Maybe start an "Obsessed with players and teams other than my own" thread?

Edit: take a week to settle down. I know you have been dealing with some health issues and really hope you will return.

[Galaxy]

...

Wow...unravel your panties and take a chill pill. It's sports trash-talking banter.

[Honolulu_Blue]

...

Dude, seriously. SB only put the Flyers in the title as a joke because you kept complaining about off-season posts in the playoffs thread. It was all in good humor. Chill.

[Logan]

I prefer EF not chill and keep bringing the stereotypical Philly-fan posts that he's always complaining about!

[Toddzilla]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/FONN-0uoTHI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Lathum]

I prefer EF not chill and keep bringing the stereotypical Philly-fan posts that he's always complaining about!

You don't have to worry about it, he said on Facebook this morning he has some health issues and is done with FOFC.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Edit: take a week to settle down. I know you have been dealing with some health issues and really hope you will return.

You don't have to worry about it, he said on Facebook this morning he has some health issues and is done with FOFC.

Honestly had no idea there were health issues. Maybe that explains the obsessive nature...

I'll change the damn title. Sort of.

[Fidatelo]

So the Jets have extended Claude Noel for 1 year. I'm not sure what to think of that. I don't really agree with the entire 'lame duck' concept for coaches (players aren't 'lame ducks' the year their contract expires, if anything people expect them to play harder). But if you do, does a 1-year extension really change anything? Isn't it basically a transparent "we don't want to hear the lame duck stuff anymore but we still don't really know if we like this coach" contract?

As for Noel himself, I really don't know what to make of him. He is trying to coach a pretty low-talent team, so it's hard to blame him for the teams record. At the same time, he hasn't really done anything obvious from a coaching perspective that has made me think "wow, this guy is good". He has battled with players (Burmi most famously), had terrible special teams, and done nothing novel in terms of any kind of systems. But at the same time, the Jets have come rather close to the playoffs both years and really do have a lot of Turd Fergusons filling the roster.

So....yay?

[Suburban Rhythm]

So the Jets have extended Claude Noel for 1 year. I'm not sure what to think of that. I don't really agree with the entire 'lame duck' concept for coaches (players aren't 'lame ducks' the year their contract expires, if anything people expect them to play harder). But if you do, does a 1-year extension really change anything? Isn't it basically a transparent "we don't want to hear the lame duck stuff anymore but we still don't really know if we like this coach" contract?

As for Noel himself, I really don't know what to make of him. He is trying to coach a pretty low-talent team, so it's hard to blame him for the teams record. At the same time, he hasn't really done anything obvious from a coaching perspective that has made me think "wow, this guy is good". He has battled with players (Burmi most famously), had terrible special teams, and done nothing novel in terms of any kind of systems. But at the same time, the Jets have come rather close to the playoffs both years and really do have a lot of Turd Fergusons filling the roster.

So....yay?

I pointed this out when Dan Bylsma just signed his 2 year extension.

July of 2008, Michel Therrien signed a 2 year extension. February 2009, he was out of a job.

If ownership is willing to eat a year of salary, he can be gone.

[RomaGoth]

Congrats to the Grand Rapids Griffins winnings the Calder Cup!

I guess now that the Calder Cup is in the Calder City, all is right with the world.

Congrats to the home team for first ever hockey championship. This will do wonders for the young Wings prospects. Tatar won the Butterfield trophy as best playoff performer with 16 goals in just 24 games. If he can perform half as well in the NHL for the Wings, we have a player.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Rumored that SKA St. Petersburg (KHL) has offered Bobrovsky $10M

Poor Columbus

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Flyers have announced they are buying out Bryzgalov.

[Dr. Sak]

The Flyers have announced they are buying out Bryzgalov.

I think the Flyers are using the Jump To Conclusions map from Office Space to make their decisions at this point.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Brian Boucher is still active, right?

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Connecting the dots...

Rumored that SKA St. Petersburg (KHL) has offered Bobrovsky $10M

Poor Columbus

The Flyers have announced they are buying out Bryzgalov.

Bobrovsky to KHL. Bryzgalov to Columbus. Bryzgalov wins Vezina.

[Suburban Rhythm]

TROLA

Found these at HF. Fantastic.

Randy Miller
‏@RandyJMiller
i just called Bryz. He answered phone and said, "Congratulations to you guys," then hung up on me

Randy Miller
‏@RandyJMiller
I phoned Bryz a second time to ask about #flyers buying him out. He said he doesn't want to talk and hung up on me again.

Randy Miller ‏@RandyJMiller 21s
By the way ... I heard Bryz had 4 blowouts last season with Lavy. And I heard players couldn't stand him.

[Coffee Warlord]

And now we see who overpays for Brian Bickell.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Alot of good stuff in here

Player Usage Charts (http://www.somekindofninja.com/nhl/usage.php?f1=2012_p&f2=5v5&f3=&f5=PIT&f4=C%2BLW%2BRW&f7=1-&bubbleType=corsiRel&yAxis=relQoc&update-filters=Update+Results)

[Fidatelo]

Trying to understand what I'm looking at, does this link tell me that Claude Noel basically screwed Scheifele by starting him in his own zone and playing him against top players the majority of the time?

Player Usage Charts (http://www.somekindofninja.com/nhl/usage.php?f1=2012_s&f2=5v5&f3=&f5=WPG&f4=C%2BLW%2BRW&f7=1-&bubbleType=corsiOn&yAxis=qoc&update-filters=Update+Results)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Trying to understand what I'm looking at, does this link tell me that Claude Noel basically screwed Scheifele by starting him in his own zone and playing him against top players the majority of the time?

Player Usage Charts (http://www.somekindofninja.com/nhl/usage.php?f1=2012_s&f2=5v5&f3=&f5=WPG&f4=C%2BLW%2BRW&f7=1-&bubbleType=corsiOn&yAxis=qoc&update-filters=Update+Results)


Yep

But I guess you can take out of that, while facing better opponents, and getting mainly defensive zone draws, he gave up less shots/60 than Jim Slater did against similar competition.

Slater, Miettinen, and Wright (and arguably Antropov) were worse. So he's not the worst on the team!

[Fidatelo]

Yep

But I guess you can take out of that, while facing better opponents, and getting mainly defensive zone draws, he gave up less shots/60 than Jim Slater did against similar competition.

Slater, Miettinen, and Wright (and arguably Antropov) were worse. So he's not the worst on the team!

Cool, thanks! My interpretation is not that Scheifele wasn't good, it is that Noel didn't do anything to help him build confidence or really have much chance for success in the traditional form (ie points) while trying to make the team.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I try not to use the numbers to base opinion on a player, but more to reconcile what I believe I saw.

I'd bet Noel would say his numbers are because he kept him out of the top 6 to avoid putting pressure on him to need to produce immediately. Playing bottom 6 minutes, not going to see as many offensive zone draws. And similarly, opponents will load up their stars with o-zone faceoffs.

Very much a chicken/egg argument.

[BishopMVP]

What do people think Nathan Horton will get as a UFA? 28 y/o, 2 very good playoff runs, but a middling regular season, and 2 pretty severe concussions in 2011 and 2012.

[Honolulu_Blue]

What do people think Nathan Horton will get as a UFA? 28 y/o, 2 very good playoff runs, but a middling regular season, and 2 pretty severe concussions in 2011 and 2012.

I think some team will throw money on him. He's got size, can score 30 goals, though the concussions and other injuries are a concern. I could see him getting $5 million a year or so for a decent number of years. I guess it depends a bit on the shoulder as well.

It's a pretty thin crop and he's pretty close to the top of it given his skill set and age.

[The Jackal]

TROLA

Found these at HF. Fantastic.

Randy Miller got destroyed on twitter for his outbursts against Bryz and rightfully so.

[The Jackal]

Sorry I wasn't here to support you earlier EF!

Despite being a Flyers fan I'm not really a trash talker (probably because I wasn't born in Philly...) - but I need a damn stanley cup.

[The Jackal]

I would be ok with an Emery/Mason tandem. I do not want Nabokov.

Very excited for Sunday to get here to see what happens. Please do not trade Couturier, Homer.

[BishopMVP]

I think some team will throw money on him. He's got size, can score 30 goals, though the concussions and other injuries are a concern. I could see him getting $5 million a year or so for a decent number of years. I guess it depends a bit on the shoulder as well.

It's a pretty thin crop and he's pretty close to the top of it given his skill set and age.That's the feeling I get too, but the media (and Chiarelli/Horton) seem to be implying he'll take a discount and be back. He made $4m this year, and even with Tuukka's raise we can fit him back in at that cap figure - I'd probably go up to $5m/y, especially if the years were 3-4, but 5+ years or >$5m/y and I think he's gone.

Jagr and Ference have been told we won't be re-signing them (I'm guessing Khudobin will be joining them, but maybe he'll re-sign if there's no interest), Kelly and Peverly are probably on the trade block - both solid players, but too high a cap figure to be bottom 6 forwards.

Media's trying to float trade rumors about Lucic, Marchand, and Seguin. I actually wouldn't mind Lucic being traded - yeah he's a great net-front presence, but his backchecking and breakout passes are terrible. Krejci and Horton did 90% of the work on that line. Seguin is the crazy one in my eyes - he doesn't dig in hard enough in the corners, but he's still only 21 and imo there's a really good chance he makes the leap in the next 2 years. He easily led the team in shots in the regular season and tied with Bergeron for the playoff lead even while being dropped down to the 3rd line for much of it - the fact that he had only 1 playoff goal (and Jagr had 0) was just bad luck rather than any severe drop-off in play.

[The Jackal]

Trading Seguin would be pretty silly, what are they floating as what they'd be looking for in return?

[Suburban Rhythm]

That's the feeling I get too, but the media (and Chiarelli/Horton) seem to be implying he'll take a discount and be back. He made $4m this year, and even with Tuukka's raise we can fit him back in at that cap figure - I'd probably go up to $5m/y, especially if the years were 3-4, but 5+ years or >$5m/y and I think he's gone.

Jagr and Ference have been told we won't be re-signing them (I'm guessing Khudobin will be joining them, but maybe he'll re-sign if there's no interest), Kelly and Peverly are probably on the trade block - both solid players, but too high a cap figure to be bottom 6 forwards.

Media's trying to float trade rumors about Lucic, Marchand, and Seguin. I actually wouldn't mind Lucic being traded - yeah he's a great net-front presence, but his backchecking and breakout passes are terrible. Krejci and Horton did 90% of the work on that line. Seguin is the crazy one in my eyes - he doesn't dig in hard enough in the corners, but he's still only 21 and imo there's a really good chance he makes the leap in the next 2 years. He easily led the team in shots in the regular season and tied with Bergeron for the playoff lead even while being dropped down to the 3rd line for much of it - the fact that he had only 1 playoff goal (and Jagr had 0) was just bad luck rather than any severe drop-off in play.

I won't profess to know what's waiting down in Providence, but who would be the replacements be?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins extend Kunitz for 3 years, $3.85m per, goes into effect 14-15 season. Slight bump from the $3.725m he is currently making.

Wonder if this spells the end for Dupuis. Shero and his agent have met a few times recently, but I think someone is offering him $4m+ for 4 years, and the Penguins can't match that.

[Dr. Sak]

Randy Miller got destroyed on twitter for his outbursts against Bryz and rightfully so.

I don't understand why any of the Philly media can get upset for what Bryz did to them. They are jerks that just stir up trouble. They whine when the players don't talk to them or give them good lines but when they do, the media twists and takes things out of context.

On a side note, I have spoken to Randy Miller and found out that he grew up on the same street that I did as a kid. No wonder he's always ripping the Flyers...he's a Pens fan...like his other beat writer buddy Panotch. :)

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't understand why any of the Philly media can get upset for what Bryz did to them. They are jerks that just stir up trouble. They whine when the players don't talk to them or give them good lines but when they do, the media twists and takes things out of context.

On a side note, I have spoken to Randy Miller and found out that he grew up on the same street that I did as a kid. No wonder he's always ripping the Flyers...he's a Pens fan...like his other beat writer buddy Panotch. :)

Still space available on the bandwagon for you!

[Dr. Sak]

Still space available on the bandwagon for you!

I don't think you can fit me under the cap.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't think you can fit me under the cap.

We'll trade Crosby and Malkin to fit you in.

Then buy you out in 2 years.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Tampa is buying out Vinny Lecavalier. Wow, that's a tough pill to swallow for Tampa. Huge money. He'd look great in red and white!

[The Jackal]

I imagine Toronto/Montreal will make a very strong push for Vinny.

[DaddyTorgo]

Tampa is buying out Vinny Lecavalier. Wow, that's a tough pill to swallow for Tampa. Huge money. He'd look great in red and white!

Black and Gold baby!!

If only we didn't have Savard's dead-ass dragging our cap space down still (right?)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Black and Gold baby!!

If only we didn't have Savard's dead-ass dragging our cap space down still (right?)

Savard's contract only hurts them in the offseason (Same for Philly with Pronger).

Teams can be over the cap ceiling by 10% in the offseason.So up to $70.7m this year.

But, they must be cap compliant on the opening day of training camp, $64.3m. And can not stash players on LTIR until the start of the season.

[DaddyTorgo]

Savard's contract only hurts them in the offseason (Same for Philly with Pronger).

Teams can be over the cap ceiling by 10% in the offseason.So up to $70.7m this year.

But, they must be cap compliant on the opening day of training camp, $64.3m. And can not stash players on LTIR until the start of the season.

Still - it hurts them. Couldn't the dude just fucking retire already - we all know he's never coming back, it's a fucking joke at this point.

Note: My anger shouldn't be taken as disrespect for his medical condition - we all know it's real. But I mean it's just patently obvious he'll never play another shift, so why not just frigging retire already?

[Fidatelo]

Because he keeps getting paid?

[Ronnie Dobbs3]

Still - it hurts them. Couldn't the dude just fucking retire already - we all know he's never coming back, it's a fucking joke at this point.

Note: My anger shouldn't be taken as disrespect for his medical condition - we all know it's real. But I mean it's just patently obvious he'll never play another shift, so why not just frigging retire already?

You are allowed to ride that high horse once you turn down over ten million dollars for no reason at all.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Being rumored Letang turned down a deal from Pittsburgh, 8 years in the range of $55m.

So, if that's the case...he's traded by Sunday at the draft.

[Dr. Sak]

Being rumored Letang turned down a deal from Pittsburgh, 8 years in the range of $55m.

So, if that's the case...he's traded by Sunday at the draft.

I just read on twitter from one of the TSN guys that the Pens offered Letang a deal worth over $7 mil per.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Rumor was he wanted $7m+ and a NMC.

Guessing they didn't give him that. I understand from a Pens perspective. If 1/2 the prospects they have on D pan out, they'll have a top 4 that will cost a combined $7m for a few seasons, and would want to move him then.

[Fidatelo]

How could he turn that down? That's cray.

[Suburban Rhythm]

How could he turn that down? That's cray.

Because if he makes it to UFA after next season, he'll be getting $8m probably

[Honolulu_Blue]

Because if he makes it to UFA after next season, he'll be getting $8m probably

Assuming he has another strong year and the playoffs were an aberration. That's quite the gamble. Maybe he just hates Cindy! Yeah, I'll go with that for now.

[BishopMVP]

Trading Seguin would be pretty silly, what are they floating as what they'd be looking for in return?Haven't even heard anything concrete, likely because it's so far-fetched. Even a trade like the Kessel one (which got us 2 top 10 picks used for Seguin and Dougie Hamilton) wouldn't be a good thing imo because Chara only has a couple more years left at an elite level.I won't profess to know what's waiting down in Providence, but who would be the replacements be?Defense is fine from the farm... Hamilton, Bartkowski, Krug all got varying degrees of playoff time, and Maxim Chudinov is still out there in Russia. Up front, Soderberg finally came over and I liked what I saw when he played, Ryan Spooner looks very good, and Jared Knight has potential but was banged up most of the season. Khoklachev is likely a couple years away, and same with the other guys who might break out. (Again, I think it's unlikely based on Chiarelli's track record), but trading any one of those 3 (Marchand, Lucic, Seguin) would likely be to free up the cap room to sign Horton and another top 6 winger. I was surprised Chiarelli told Jagr we wouldn't be pursuing him - I had no illusions he would take $1 less to sign here, but if he wanted a fairly cheap 1 or 2 year deal I thought he fit in well here. If we trade Kelly or Peverly, we'd probably sign a veteran PK guy - both seem over-priced at $3m+ for their role, but what's the going rate for players like that now?Savard's contract only hurts them in the offseason (Same for Philly with Pronger).

Teams can be over the cap ceiling by 10% in the offseason.So up to $70.7m this year.

But, they must be cap compliant on the opening day of training camp, $64.3m. And can not stash players on LTIR until the start of the season.Agree with SR here - Savard only costs $4m, so he fits in the difference there. If it was really hamstringing our moves I assume we would just use our amnesty/buy-out on him (unless there's a rule against using it on an injured player?)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Agree with SR here - Savard only costs $4m, so he fits in the difference there. If it was really hamstringing our moves I assume we would just use our amnesty/buy-out on him (unless there's a rule against using it on an injured player?)

Yep, can't buy out an injured guy. Main reason why MIN is stuck with Heatley. Same for SJ with Havlat.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Damned Swedish thugs

Winnipeg Jets defenseman Tobias Enstrom assaulted, robbed in Sweden - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/9436566/winnipeg-jets-defenseman-tobias-enstrom-assaulted-robbed-sweden)

[Young Drachma]

MacKinnon or Jones? Which do you take with the #1?

[BishopMVP]

MacKinnon or Jones? Which do you take with the #1?MacKinnon.

Seguin rumor is we're looking for a top 10 pick and an all-star forward. I guess is some team wants to give us all that, go for it, but it makes no sense. Chiarelli's basically banking on some team trading for Seguin based on him making the leap to franchise player in the next two years while showing no confidence in him actually doing so.

[DaddyTorgo]

MacKinnon.

Seguin rumor is we're looking for a top 10 pick and an all-star forward. I guess is some team wants to give us all that, go for it, but it makes no sense. Chiarelli's basically banking on some team trading for Seguin based on him making the leap to franchise player in the next two years while showing no confidence in him actually doing so.

Yeah - no way they're going to get that for him.

[Suburban Rhythm]

MacKinnon or Jones? Which do you take with the #1?

For Pittsburgh...Drouin. ;)

Although would be nice to corner the market on Cole Harbour boys.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Letang deal done.

$58m over 8 years, $7.25m per. A little above what I was hoping for.

Limited NTC - 15 teams. Still leaves enough wiggle room, if, in a handful of years, all the D drafted in the past 3 seasons are pushing him, with much cheaper contracts.

Overall solid though. Still only at $3.5m next year when the cap dips, this won't kick in until 14-15, when Orpik and a few other contracts expire.

[JPhillips]

Really surprised the Rangers are keeping Richards. That's showing a lot of faith in the new coach.

[BishopMVP]

Really surprised the Rangers are keeping Richards. That's showing a lot of faith in the new coach.He's only a year away from putting up good stats, and wouldn't be the first small, skilled player whose production Torts hurt. Plus they can always buy him out next year I believe.

Mild surprise with Barkov going 2nd there. Nashville just had their Suter replacement fall into their laps.

Mike Smith 6 year, $5.7m AAV. Not a fan of that, as Tuuka should get at least $1m more. There's at least a one in 3 chance Smith's contract looks terrible within 2 seasons - he had one great year and an average one last year.

[MizzouRah]

Damn you Nashville.. that defense is going to be brutal to play against.

[BishopMVP]

Damn you Nashville.. that defense is going to be brutal to play against.Blame Florida.

[Draft Dodger]

Blame Florida.

yeah, I think the Avs made the right move there but I'm not super excited to see Jones stay in the division. Nashville's a perfect destination for him - he won't have the pressure of being the #1 guy like he would have had in Colorado.

[Danny]

It's so nice to finally have a team who can compete for the cup every year

[Danny]

Fantastic pick by the Kings in Zykov. First round talent and a big need for the organization.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Tyler Kennedy moved to SJ for a 2nd round pick. Honestly surprised Pittsburgh got that much for him. He was terrible for much of the year, on a $2m contract, then had a couple key goals in the playoffs.

He specializes at putting the puck right on the goaltenders logo. So maybe in the West, he'll take advantage of Luongo's missing heart and score a few that way.

[Suburban Rhythm]

And now we see who overpays for Brian Bickell.

None other than Chicago themselves!

4 years, $16m

They moved some space eaters in Bolland and Frolik, so it doesn't kill them...but that's a lot of money for the Fernando Pisani/Max Talbot playoff out of nowhere guy of the year.

[hoopsguy]

Heard that Bolland would likely be cast aside to bring back Bickell.

So they gave away the guy who had the go-ahead goal in Game 7 to keep the guy who scored the tying goal in Game 7. Thought of that during the post-game, wondering if it would actually go down that way.

[bbor]

I'm excited to see Boland in a leaf uni....bye bye Bozak.....

[Danny]

At one point Marty Brodeur started 70+ games for 10 years in a row and67+ for 12 years.

[Coffee Warlord]

None other than Chicago themselves!

4 years, $16m

They moved some space eaters in Bolland and Frolik, so it doesn't kill them...but that's a lot of money for the Fernando Pisani/Max Talbot playoff out of nowhere guy of the year.

The good news is the first year is at only 2 million. The bigger money comes in later, at 4ish per year. Basically, he's got a year to earn his money, or I'm sure they'll try and find a taker for him.

[cubboyroy1826]

I was sad to see Frolik go but at his salary he needed to do more than be a very good penalty killer. Not real sad to see Bolland go as he was just okay and at $3 mill per year not worth it. As for the Bickell contract I think the cost was too much but if it is just $2 mill for the first year then I guess I am okay with next year. Between Frolik and Bolland they were able to free up about $5.5 mill per year which will definitely help.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The good news is the first year is at only 2 million. The bigger money comes in later, at 4ish per year. Basically, he's got a year to earn his money, or I'm sure they'll try and find a taker for him.

I was sad to see Frolik go but at his salary he needed to do more than be a very good penalty killer. Not real sad to see Bolland go as he was just okay and at $3 mill per year not worth it. As for the Bickell contract I think the cost was too much but if it is just $2 mill for the first year then I guess I am okay with next year. Between Frolik and Bolland they were able to free up about $5.5 mill per year which will definitely help.

Cap hit, however, is the average value. So $4m per.

Still if they feel he's an important piece to the top 6, they are doing the right thing. They've won 2 cups in 4 years. You keep that group intact as long as possible, and fill in depth with rookie contracts, 1 year vet contracts.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Letang deal done.

$58m over 8 years, $7.25m per. A little above what I was hoping for.

Limited NTC - 15 teams. Still leaves enough wiggle room, if, in a handful of years, all the D drafted in the past 3 seasons are pushing him, with much cheaper contracts.

Overall solid though. Still only at $3.5m next year when the cap dips, this won't kick in until 14-15, when Orpik and a few other contracts expire.

Officially unofficial now...can't sign until Friday, but all terms agreed upon

[Suburban Rhythm]

TROLA

Flyers sign Vinny Lecavalier to 5 year deal, $4.5m per...with a full No Move.

I don't think the value is terrible for Philly...but I don't understand the move. He's still a good 2nd line center. But Giroux, Schenn and Couturier will all be restricted after this year, and getting raises.

[claphamsa]

Tyler Bozak wants 8 years, at 5 per.... thats insane!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Tyler Bozak wants 8 years, at 5 per.... thats insane!

I'd consider Bozak at 8 years, $5m...total

[bbor]

TROLA

Flyers sign Vinny Lecavalier to 5 year deal, $4.5m per...with a full No Move.

I don't think the value is terrible for Philly...but I don't understand the move. He's still a good 2nd line center. But Giroux, Schenn and Couturier will all be restricted after this year, and getting raises.

Not a terrible deal...but not a great one...he will be 38 at the end of this contract.Where is this cap room coming from?

[Mota]

Vinny is already on the downward trajectory. He might be good for another 2 years or so but years 3-5 are going to be ugly.

[bhlloy]

lol, Flyers. There are teams that would have made sense for, but then those teams wouldn't already be 500k over the cap with Steve Mason as the only goalie on the roster and with 3 affordable guys hitting RFA next year.

[bhlloy]

DOLA - seriously, the only contracts the Flyers might move that are worth anything are Simmonds and maybe Luke Schenn, and it's not like teams will be queuing up for those bargains either. Where the hell are they going to get the money to get under the cap and get a goaltender from?

[Dr. Sak]

DOLA - seriously, the only contracts the Flyers might move that are worth anything are Simmonds and maybe Luke Schenn, and it's not like teams will be queuing up for those bargains either. Where the hell are they going to get the money to get under the cap and get a goaltender from?

I know its fun to rail on the Flyers but at least look at the cap situation before you go off on them. That 500k over the cap includes Chris Prongers 4.9 million dollar hit which will come off the cap once he is placed on LTIR. Brayden Schenn's bonuses are so unrealistic that once he misses a game, 2.3 million comes off the cap because there is no way he can get all his bonus money. Also, I am fairly certain that Coburn goes away via a trade (mostly likely to EDM) and that right there would free up another 4.5 million.

As for next year...Kimmo's 6 million comes off the books, as does Meszaros's 4.0 million...add the allotment for Pronger's 4.9 mil and there is almost 15 million dollars.

I thought they would focus more on their holes on D rather than get another Center like Vinny. He'll center the 2nd line between Simmonds and Schenn.

[bbor]

If Coburn gets traded that leaves a huge hole on D...they better plan on scoring 7 goals a game with that D and goaltending.I could see them signing Tim Thomas,but at what cost?

[Fidatelo]

Looks like the Jets have re-signed Clitsome for 3 years, $6.2M total. That seems like a pretty reasonable contract and I'm pretty cool with bringing him back at that kind of value.

[Dr. Sak]

If Coburn gets traded that leaves a huge hole on D...they better plan on scoring 7 goals a game with that D and goaltending.I could see them signing Tim Thomas,but at what cost?

I agree...I can do the numbers bit but as far as trying to understand what Homer is trying to do...I am as Bryz once said "Lost in the woods".

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pascal Dupuis back to Pittsburgh, 4 years, $3.75m per

Not sure I like this one. I like the player, but about a year too long and $500-750k too much for my liking. But if they wanted to keep him, they had to go that high/long.

My biggest issue is: Bylsma back. Dupuis back. Kunitz back. Letang back.

I like all of them well enough. But Dupuis will be glued to Crosby's line now. When Crosby was bad in the Boston series, he needed someone who could carry the play on his own sometimes...Duper is not that guy.

[Dr. Sak]

Pascal Dupuis back to Pittsburgh, 4 years, $3.75m per

Not sure I like this one. I like the player, but about a year too long and $500-750k too much for my liking. But if they wanted to keep him, they had to go that high/long.

My biggest issue is: Bylsma back. Dupuis back. Kunitz back. Letang back.

I like all of them well enough. But Dupuis will be glued to Crosby's line now. When Crosby was bad in the Boston series, he needed someone who could carry the play on his own sometimes...Duper is not that guy.

So as of next year (14-15) they have 48.75 million tied up with 9 guys?

[Suburban Rhythm]

So as of next year (14-15) they have 48.75 million tied up with 9 guys?

Yep.

The cap will go up. HRR has risen for 20 straight seasons. So estimate 68m. A little under 20 mil for 13 spots. Two of those spots will be modest (?) raises to Beau Bennett and Simon Despres. Don't see either breaking the bank.

Orpik, Glass, Jokinen, Niskanen (if he's around, I expect him to be moved this summer) and Vokoun all expiring deals. Most/None of them should be back, Orpik if he'd take a pretty steep cut.

Defensively, they have bodies. Time to tell if Shero drafted well. Letang, Martin and Despres anchoring the D, with young guys filling out the spots, all at $1m or less.

Forward will be a bigger concern. But, assuming Crosby, Malkin, Kunitz, Dupuis, Neal and Bennett make up the top 6, the expensive spots are filled. Sutter will be restricted, but mainly looking for 3rd and 4th liners. A few of those guy will be under $1m, so they can still be active on middle tier free agents.

[Logan]

Alex Ovechkin leads first-team All-Stars ... and second-team - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/22623526/alex-ovechkin-leads-firstteam-allstars-and-secondteam)

[Honolulu_Blue]

Big pre-free agency trade. Boston sends Seguin, Peverly and some guy named Button to Dallas for Louis Eriksson, Joe Morrow, Reilly smith and Matt Fraser.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Big pre-free agency trade. Boston sends Seguin, Peverly and some guy named Button to Dallas for Louis Eriksson, Joe Morrow, Reilly smith and Matt Fraser.

Had been reading where Chiarelli had fired some warning shots at Seguin through the media re: this being his job, etc.

Dallas has some nice depth with Benn, Seguin, Peverly down the middle now.

[Suburban Rhythm]

And Giroux signs his long term extension, which will kick in for 14-15 season.

8 years, $66.2, / $8.275m per.

Full NMC

[DaddyTorgo]

Big pre-free agency trade. Boston sends Seguin, Peverly and some guy named Button to Dallas for Louis Eriksson, Joe Morrow, Reilly smith and Matt Fraser.

Never heard of this Eriksson dude.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Never heard of this Eriksson dude.

Him and Bergeron together would be a ridiculous 2-way line. If he wasn't in Dallas (and was a center, because voters are biased) his name would be connected to the Selke every year.

[DaddyTorgo]

Him and Bergeron together would be a ridiculous 2-way line. If he wasn't in Dallas (and was a center, because voters are biased) his name would be connected to the Selke every year.

Cool. And now I'm hearing D. Alfredsson with some of the cap space, which would be frigging awesome. Love his offensive game as a playmaker.

[claphamsa]

even as good as Errickson is... that seems like a dump to me... am I missing something?

[Fidatelo]

I think Boston did well in that trade.

[Suburban Rhythm]

even as good as Errickson is... that seems like a dump to me... am I missing something?


Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli on Tyler Seguin: 'Got to become more of a professional' - bruins blog - Boston Globe hockey news (http://www.boston.com/sports/hockey/bruins/extras/bruins_blog/2013/06/gm_peter_chiarelli_on_tyler_seguin_got_to_become_more_of_a_p.html)

He’s got to commit his mind and focus to the one task at hand,” Chiarelli said. “He’s got to become more of a professional. You know what? I can say that about a lot of 21-year-olds. I know he got criticized for playing on the periphery and all that stuff. He did. He’s got to commit to being a professional and focusing on the game. Simple as that. He does that, we don’t expect him to be crashing and banging. Just play your game

"We gave Tyler a big contract because he projects and he had good performance. I would expect that going forward.”

[bbor]

FA day....it's like Christmas in July!

[Fidatelo]

Am I reading correctly that Elias just re-signed with the Devils for 16.5mil/3 years? I know he is still a good player, but he's 37... that seems like a lot of dough.

[claphamsa]

FA day....it's like Christmas in July!

except when your team sucks... its like christmas if you are jewish.

(dont expect the Avs to sign anyone)

[Galaxy]

Big pre-free agency trade. Boston sends Seguin, Peverly and some guy named Button to Dallas for Louis Eriksson, Joe Morrow, Reilly smith and Matt Fraser.

Is Seguin really a player that hasn't lived up to his potential? Is he still young enough to grow even more?

[claphamsa]

Emery to Philly... woulda thought he could get more money than he did.
Alfredson to the wings. meh

[Suburban Rhythm]

Am I reading correctly that Elias just re-signed with the Devils for 16.5mil/3 years? I know he is still a good player, but he's 37... that seems like a lot of dough.

I don't think he took much of a discount, but he's still really solid. 78 points back in 11-12, was good for top 10 in scoring.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Is Seguin really a player that hasn't lived up to his potential? Is he still young enough to grow even more?

I think the idea is Seguin did scratch his potential in 11-12, figured he'd coast from there after getting a big deal, and struggled this year because of it.

Definitely capable of growing, he's 21 and capable of being a consistent 85+ point guy every year. Whether he does is another story.

[claphamsa]

horton got 37M from Columbus
Avs signed a depth Dman :)
ribero got 22M 4 years, cant believe the caps didnt match that.

[Suburban Rhythm]

TROLA

Penguins bring back Rob Scuderi. PERFECT partner for Letang.

4 years $3.375m per...not crazy about the length, he's 34 now. But solid move.

Some deal forthcoming...Penguins about $750k under the cap now.

Expecting Matt Niskanen going out.

[Draft Dodger]

I guess Horton was serious about wanting to go to a quieter market

[Suburban Rhythm]

Stalberg 4 years, $3m per to Nashville

Clarkson 7 years, $5.25m per to Toronto

Bozak 5 years, $4.2m per to Toronto

Clowe 5 years, $4.85m per to NJ

[claphamsa]

25M for Weiss? isnt he always hurt?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wings didn't get bigger, but hard not to like the moves. Solidified the top two lines, kept intact a potential fun 3rd line of Tatar-Andersson-Nyquist and plenty of options on the 4th line: Eaves, Miller, helm, Bert, Sammuelsson or emmerton.

[Chief Rum]

Surprised no comment on the Ryan trade.

Ryan to the Sens for RW Svilfberg, a prospect (RW Noesen, Sens 2011 1st round pick, 11th overall) and next year's 1st rounder.

My gut at first said this sucks, because I like Ryan and when they don't play the Wings in the playoffs, that top line is about as good as anyone.

But now that I have read up more on these two players we got, I am warming up to it. Svilfberg seems like a nice two-way player who should build on his rookie season, and Noesen seems to have some very strong upside.

Also, trading Ryan frees up some cap space.

Good luck in Ottawa, Ryan.

[britrock88]

I like the Habs picking up Parros for size, and Briere on a relatively cheap deal, IMO, with the potential that his regular-season production rebounds and the promise of good playoff production to thwart another first-round flameout.

Also like the Canes' pickup of Khudobin to give Ward a good-looking backup; maybe Muller won't ride Ward to the IR next year.

Also, dig the Alfredsson pick-up by the Wings. They love their old guys, and just got some support from me for bring Danny on to try to make some noise in the new NE/Florida division next year.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Iginla to Boston 1 year $6m...Aaron Ward was right all along

Matt Cooke to Minnesota, 3 years $2.5m per
I know everyone hates him, he's an ass sometimes (not nearly as much as 3 years ago), but he's also a hell of a PKer, and will chip in 12-15 goals.

Won't miss 2 minutes for being Matt Cooke being called though.

[DaddyTorgo]

Emery to Philly... woulda thought he could get more money than he did.
Alfredson to the wings. meh

Gah. I was hoping Alfredson to the B's. They need to bring somebody else in offensively.

[DaddyTorgo]

Gah. I was hoping Alfredson to the B's. They need to bring somebody else in offensively.

DOLA

That'll teach me to post before reading on. Iginla...hmm okay. He didn't play well in the playoffs at all, but hopefully that was due to the B's defense more then him falling off suddenly.

[Logan]

Rangers and McDonagh agreed to an extension: 6 years, $4.7 mil per it's being reported. Love both those numbers.

[Fidatelo]

Jets lose Burmistrov to the KHL. Feels like the kid could have been so much more if he hadn't been rushed to the NHL. I also don't think he got a lot of help from Noel once he was in Winnipeg, but maybe he refused to go to the AHL at that point, too, which is really where he should have been to start. Who knows, but either way it seems like a shame all around.

[nilodor]

Jets lose Burmistrov to the KHL. Feels like the kid could have been so much more if he hadn't been rushed to the NHL. I also don't think he got a lot of help from Noel once he was in Winnipeg, but maybe he refused to go to the AHL at that point, too, which is really where he should have been to start. Who knows, but either way it seems like a shame all around.

Don't guys from Russia pretty much have to play in the NHL right away or else their salaries will be much higher in the KHL vs the minors equivalent of their NHL deal?

[Fidatelo]

Don't guys from Russia pretty much have to play in the NHL right away or else their salaries will be much higher in the KHL vs the minors equivalent of their NHL deal?

I'm not sure, I suppose that could be true. I know all of this is a reason why Russians aren't picked as often in the first round anymore.

I just think overall it's a shame, it feels like the career of a really good hockey player has been stunted, if not worse. And for a team like the Jets that has had very poor organizational depth for the past several years, to see this happen to a first-round pick is another setback.

[Logan]

Hey ML...I heard you get name-dropped on Bill Simmons' podcast yesterday when he was talking to his dad about hockey, saying he was recently emailing with you and Wyshynski about the Seguin trade, "2 of the best 3 hockey writers in the world". Since you're somewhat under the radar here, what's it like working for/with Simmons? I imagine Simmons sending emails as if he really knows what he's talking about, and then you and Wysh having a separate email chain where you're making fun of him.

You can PM me.

[sterlingice]

Aw- but it would be more funny if the latter email chain were out in the open :D

SI

[Draft Dodger]

Bill Simmons is the Andrew Raycroft of sports writing - it took a while, but eventually most people figured out he was nowhere near as good as everyone thought he was

[Dr. Sak]

Hey ML...I heard you get name-dropped on Bill Simmons' podcast yesterday when he was talking to his dad about hockey, saying he was recently emailing with you and Wyshynski about the Seguin trade, "2 of the best 3 hockey writers in the world". Since you're somewhat under the radar here, what's it like working for/with Simmons? I imagine Simmons sending emails as if he really knows what he's talking about, and then you and Wysh having a separate email chain where you're making fun of him.

You can PM me.

Hey ML...first time writer...long time listener...Does Simmonds know you use to write a column for the RWBL under his name? If not, how much will you pay me not to publish the writings. I will hang up and listen to your response.

[sterlingice]

Bill Simmons is the Andrew Raycroft of sports writing - it took a while, but eventually most people figured out he was nowhere near as good as everyone thought he was

I think his NBA knowledge is good. Unfortunately, everything else has played itself out including his "oh woe is boston" schtick.

SI

[bhlloy]

They should just stop voting for the hall of fame until Pat Burns gets in. Still a disgrace. Think they got the players right this year (Nieds, Shanny, Chelios) but the other two are another slap in the face.

[Honolulu_Blue]

They should just stop voting for the hall of fame until Pat Burns gets in. Still a disgrace. Think they got the players right this year (Nieds, Shanny, Chelios) but the other two are another slap in the face.

Good for Shanahan and Chelios!

It will be interesting to see just how many players from the 2002 Red Wings team will end up in the HOF.

[Dr. Sak]

They should just stop voting for the hall of fame until Pat Burns gets in. Still a disgrace. Think they got the players right this year (Nieds, Shanny, Chelios) but the other two are another slap in the face.

Personal bias aside, I wouldn't call Fred Shero a slap in the face. He's been a long time coming.

[bhlloy]

No I probably wouldn't either to be fair. No disrespect to the fifth member who I know very little about but I have a hard time believing she should be in the hall of fame before Pat Burns.

[Dr. Sak]

I agree. Burns should be in by now.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Oilers send Magnus Pääjärvi and a second round pick in 2014 to St. Louis for David Perron

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Orc King, Tukka Rask, gets his loots. 8 year deal worth $56 million (so, $7 million a year). That's a lot for a goalie in this era, but he's pretty good.

[MizzouRah]

The Oilers send Magnus Pääjärvi and a second round pick in 2014 to St. Louis for David Perron

Who in the heck is Magnus Pääjärvi?

[Ronnie Dobbs3]

Ilya Kovalchuk retires???

edit: seeing this on Twitter

[Logan]

Devils PR is saying it to be true.

[DaddyTorgo]

I know his contract is ridiculous - this just makes it worse right?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Just read this and headed over here...

What in the wold!? :eek:

[Suburban Rhythm]

I know his contract is ridiculous - this just makes it worse right?

If this is real retirement - files papers with the league office, etc etc - Devils not on the hook for 1 more cent.

If he's pulling a Tim Thomas "I am taking a year off to backup through Europe" type, still counts.

[Logan]

Yeah according to Capgeek they'll be hit with $3MM in cap recapture penalties, paid out as $250K against the cap each year through 2025. He probably helped them out big time from a cap perspective in those later years.

On the ice though, it's devastating. Plus they're supposed to be forfeiting their 1st rounder in 2014 from circumventing the cap on his deal in the first place, after delaying giving up the pick sooner. People think they have been hoping to appeal to not lose it, and maybe they now hope this helps them in that regard. Who knows.

[Galaxy]

If this is real retirement - files papers with the league office, etc etc - Devils not on the hook for 1 more cent.

If he's pulling a Tim Thomas "I am taking a year off to backup through Europe" type, still counts.

Wow...big news. Is he allowed to play in the KHL?

[Galaxy]

I love reading the Jersey fans over at hfboards.com. They are shell-shocked. My favorite quote:

"So the Devils gave away a first round pick (punishment for the contract), Cormier, Oduya, another first round pick in the trade (if I remember well...) AND gave up on signing Parise for... that?

Wow."

And that first round pick they were punished is in next year's draft.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yeah according to Capgeek they'll be hit with $3MM in cap recapture penalties, paid out as $250K against the cap each year through 2025. He probably helped them out big time from a cap perspective in those later years.

On the ice though, it's devastating. Plus they're supposed to be forfeiting their 1st rounder in 2014 from circumventing the cap on his deal in the first place, after delaying giving up the pick sooner. People think they have been hoping to appeal to not lose it, and maybe they now hope this helps them in that regard. Who knows.

That's the crazy part. Lou is a great GM...but not forfeiting #29 in the 2012 was ridiculously arrogant, as if saying "Well, we'll just forfeit #30 when we win next year!". really dumb there.

I don't see why having the guy retire should save them from a penalty incurred on a contract signed 3 years ago.

[Logan]

Wow...big news. Is he allowed to play in the KHL?

I believe he is, as long as he files papers to retire it wouldn't impact whatever deal the leagues have with each other. The Devils would just retain his NHL rights.

Saw this a few minutes ago:

Greg Wyshynski ‏@wyshynski 11m

In talking with someone close to Devils: Kovalchuk very tight with KHL money men. Source speculation: "Could make $50M in 5 years there."

[Suburban Rhythm]

And...bet it would have been nice to know this last week, and throw a little extra money at Clarkson, go after a few other FAs.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Brodeur for Fleury and a 1st in 2014 to replace the forfeit pick?
;)

[Galaxy]

Vanek to the Devils? BTW, doesn't this just 10X up the "Russian factor" with NHL teams?

[Logan]

Dmitry Chesnokov ‏@dchesnokov 3m

Source close to Kovalchuk said he saw it coming. Most likely Kovalchuk will play for SKA. I am told major announcement will come very soon.
.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't have access to capgeek at work...

Is there an explanation as to the cap recapture? Related to a portion of the money being paid as a signing bonus or roster bonus or something?

[Logan]

I don't have access to capgeek at work...

Is there an explanation as to the cap recapture? Related to a portion of the money being paid as a signing bonus or roster bonus or something?

It's the difference between what he was paid in actual dollars since the beginning of his contract, and what the cap hit was for those years based on the entire length of the contract. It wasn't too significant because in real dollars, he was set to earn most of his money over the next few years.

I believe I saw that he earned $23 million in cash vs $20 mil in cap hits.

[JonInMiddleGA]

The face of the Thrashers, along with Heatley, for the existence of the franchise. In hindsight, it's enough to make you think the club never really had a chance.

Instead of Moose & Squirrel, Atlanta simply had Squirrel & Squirrelier.

[Pyser]

jesus. well, thanks kovy for doing this after all the free agents signed. classy.

[chrisj]

As many people have suggested... this has likely been in the works for month. I suspect no one in the Devil front office is surprised.

[Suburban Rhythm]

.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The face of the Thrashers, along with Heatley, for the existence of the franchise. In hindsight, it's enough to make you think the club never really had a chance.

Instead of Moose & Squirrel, Atlanta simply had Squirrel & Squirrelier.

Interesting note I caught

From the Thrashers inaugural draft, 1999, Patrik Stefan still holds the franchise record for games played at 455.

The other two players still active from that draft are Garnet Exelby (408 games) and Derek Mackenzie (236).

[Dr. Sak]

I believe he is, as long as he files papers to retire it wouldn't impact whatever deal the leagues have with each other. The Devils would just retain his NHL rights.

Saw this a few minutes ago:

I don't think it is as simple for him and retiring from the NHL and then signing a KHL contract. The Devils could try to make his life hell by going to the IIHF and possibly forcing them to rule on this situation. They might not be able to stop him from playing in the KHL in the long run, however, the IIHF could make him ineligible for this year's Olympics and other World Championship events.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't think it is as simple for him and retiring from the NHL and then signing a KHL contract. The Devils could try to make his life hell by going to the IIHF and possibly forcing them to rule on this situation. They might not be able to stop him from playing in the KHL in the long run, however, the IIHF could make him ineligible for this year's Olympics and other World Championship events.

Agree

The KHL doesn't really care about straining relations with the IIHF. They don't care if Russian players are "trapped" in Russia...they want them there.

From a Devils perspective, they retain his NHL rights. I wouldn't want to be tied up in this mess long term, but this season...make it hell for him. Block every attempt to play ANYWHERE, especially the Olympics.

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Unless I missed something...has the NHL ever explicitly stated NHL players will be participating in the Olympics?

If the NHL wants to take a stand here, if SKA signs Kovalchuk...no NHL players. Which means no Ovy, Malkin, Datsyuk, etc for the Games in Sochi.

[Dr. Sak]

DOLA

Unless I missed something...has the NHL ever explicitly stated NHL players will be participating in the Olympics?

If the NHL wants to take a stand here, if SKA signs Kovalchuk...no NHL players. Which means no Ovy, Malkin, Datsyuk, etc for the Games in Sochi.

From everything I have read the deal is pretty much done and will be announced today or Monday. It's the reason the NHL Schedule hasn't been announced yet.

The Caps owner already promised Ovi that no matter what the NHL ruling is, he can go back and play in the Olympics.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Apparently Roenick was in rare form after the announcement


Kovalchuk is as selfish as they come!!!! I'm appalled. I feel bad for all u devils fans. U deserve better than that!!



Hey Ilya hope u live comfortably in Russia w the money u made from the 23 million u stole from the devils Again I'm right in my analysis



@mjp42330 I need more than a beer. I'm so riled up on this one. I love the NHL and Lou This is disgusting



Studiest thing iv heard since Aaron Hernandez .. Kovalchuk retiring !!! Is he out of his mind??? Something is fishy

[JPhillips]

Ovi has also made it clear he'll leave for the Olympics with or without permission. I'd imagine a handful of other Russians would do the same.

[Suburban Rhythm]

OK, this exchange killed me...

@luchador41 keep dating ur mom Nice picture


@Jeremy_Roenick You wanna compare something?

The ring on my mother's finger > The ring on your finger #NoCup #RingPluggedIntoMyEars

:lol: :lol: :lol:

[Ronnie Dobbs3]

B's sign Bergeron, 8 years at 6.5 per

[DaddyTorgo]

B's sign Bergeron, 8 years at 6.5 per

Good

[bbor]

I admire Russian hockey players for their skills.....but Kovy has proven (in my mind anyways) why i would never count on them to win a cup.It just means so damn much more to Canadian and American players.Give me players with heart,drive,and emotion over anything else any day of the week.

[ISiddiqui]

Because Russian hockey players didn't help the Red Wings win any cups in the 90s? ;)

[Honolulu_Blue]

I admire Russian hockey players for their skills.....but Kovy has proven (in my mind anyways) why i would never count on them to win a cup.It just means so damn much more to Canadian and American players.Give me players with heart,drive,and emotion over anything else any day of the week.

Thanks, Donald S. Cherry!

Come on now. I'd put Pavel Datsyuk's "compete level" (to use the parlance of our times) against any Canadian or American born player. Same with Vladimir Konstantinov. And Darius Kasparitis.

As for Kovy, the dude led all forwards in terms of ice time, in the entire league, by over 2:40 a game! He killed penalties, played on the powerplay. He did it all. He had all the heart, drive and emotion you'd want out of a player.

While Russian players do seem to be a bit more mecurial on average than North American or Canadian players, but there are plenty of very talented Canadian and American born players who have similar problems in terms of heart, drive and emotion. Isn't that basically why Tyler Seguin was traded? Same rumors around David Perron (now that he was traded) too.

[DaddyTorgo]

LMAO

[sterlingice]

Love it :D

SI

[Galaxy]

Agree

The KHL doesn't really care about straining relations with the IIHF. They don't care if Russian players are "trapped" in Russia...they want them there.

From a Devils perspective, they retain his NHL rights. I wouldn't want to be tied up in this mess long term, but this season...make it hell for him. Block every attempt to play ANYWHERE, especially the Olympics.

If he comes back, are the Devils still held to that contract? How do the Devils own his rights if the contract is voided?


I admire Russian hockey players for their skills.....but Kovy has proven (in my mind anyways) why i would never count on them to win a cup.It just means so damn much more to Canadian and American players.Give me players with heart,drive,and emotion over anything else any day of the week.

A lot of Canadian and American players are lazy. I think the way Kovy went all out during the Devils' Cup run is a player I want on my team. Guy is a passionate player who wants to win. I never felt like he was a "lazy" player.

[Galaxy]

LMAO

Is it just me, or did the Sharks delete their tweet to ESPN?

[bhlloy]

I think for the most part US major league sports fans just aren't used to not being the only show in town. It's probably very attractive for a lot of Russian players to go home and play less games and pay less taxes. Doesn't mean they all have to fit the stereotype.

[Ryan S]

Is it just me, or did the Sharks delete their tweet to ESPN?

It's still there. You probably have twitter set to show "No Replies". You can change this just above the timeline.

[Suburban Rhythm]

If he comes back, are the Devils still held to that contract? How do the Devils own his rights if the contract is voided?



Sorry, wasn't aware at that point the Devils had voided the deal. They could have held the deal, and retained his rights.

I guess it was a 2 step process. 1, he retires, and the Devils agree to that. 2, they agree to void the contract.

However, before he returns now, he must receive an OK from all 30 teams. So, on the off chance he tried to return in a few years, why wouldn't 1 team block it just out of spite - Pittsburgh/Philadelphia, Boston/Toronto, Edmonton/Calgary, etc. Doesn't cost that team a penny.

[DaddyTorgo]

Sorry, wasn't aware at that point the Devils had voided the deal. They could have held the deal, and retained his rights.

I guess it was a 2 step process. 1, he retires, and the Devils agree to that. 2, they agree to void the contract.

However, before he returns now, he must receive an OK from all 30 teams. So, on the off chance he tried to return in a few years, why wouldn't 1 team block it just out of spite - Pittsburgh/Philadelphia, Boston/Toronto, Edmonton/Calgary, etc. Doesn't cost that team a penny.

This is actually a really great system, and one that I wish all the leagues would implement. Makes the decision to retire actually...mean something.

[Galaxy]

Sorry, wasn't aware at that point the Devils had voided the deal. They could have held the deal, and retained his rights.

I guess it was a 2 step process. 1, he retires, and the Devils agree to that. 2, they agree to void the contract.

However, before he returns now, he must receive an OK from all 30 teams. So, on the off chance he tried to return in a few years, why wouldn't 1 team block it just out of spite - Pittsburgh/Philadelphia, Boston/Toronto, Edmonton/Calgary, etc. Doesn't cost that team a penny.

I actually should of phrased my question better in that is his current contract voided? Or the Devils can be on the hook if he decides to come back? If he comes back and gets the OK, does he become a free agent?

[Pyser]

the contract is voided

dunno if the devils hold his rights or not though

[claphamsa]

ITs official Kovulchuck has signed with St Petersburg in Russia.
I play hockey with a couple Russian "diplomats" and they were all pissed. They think hes just greedy and a bad example for Russians. They also said St Pete regularly pays people a month late since they have no money....

[Suburban Rhythm]

Reading at HF...

Kovalchuk remains "property" of the Devils, but the contract he was under is voided.

In typical NHL fashion, of course there is a goofy twist in here.

Should Kovy return, the Devils retain him by offering a "fair and reasonable Standard Player Contract." What constitutes a fair and reasonable SPC? I guess if NJ offers something Kovy doesn't see fit, it goes to an arbiter.

At that point, either he's a Devils asset, either under contract or "owned" similar to a QO to an RFA, and could be traded if he didn't want to play in NJ.

And, in order for all of this to happen, he must meet one of these criteria
1) plays no professional hockey for 1 year
2) receive consent from all 30 teams
3) return after age 35 (April 2018)

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

rumor is $15-20m per year on SKA contract

[claphamsa]

what is this HF?

[Suburban Rhythm]

HFBoards - NHL Message Board and Forum for National Hockey League (http://hfboards.hockeysfuture.com/index.php)

Trade news breaks there as it's happening. And some really knowledgeable poster.

You just need to wade through the other 90% to get to anything of value.

[claphamsa]

thanks. rampant posters just like here :)

[whomario]

DOLA

Unless I missed something...has the NHL ever explicitly stated NHL players will be participating in the Olympics?

If the NHL wants to take a stand here, if SKA signs Kovalchuk...no NHL players. Which means no Ovy, Malkin, Datsyuk, etc for the Games in Sochi.

so how much money is "taking a stand" worth ? Don´t have any numbers here, but i imagine that a smart person with insight and knowledge of economics would rate the "future income due to lack of exposure and/or pissing of everybody else" as rather high.

Also: Is it a big topic here or in the media that NHL contracts are incredibly ridiculous by anyones standards ? I mean, a 12 year contract ? And you tell me there was a lockout just recently (and 2 in the last 8 years) and no one bothered to clean that up ?

I love watching hockey at the international level, but for various tiny reasons never got into watching the NHL (or domestic leagues over here), so it´s actually an honest question :)

[claphamsa]

they did clean it up... 8 year max, 7 in FA

[Pyser]

new division names:

atlantic
metropolitan
central
pacific

fun fact: none of the teams in the old atlantic division are in the new atlantic division (facepalm)

[Logan]

fun fact: none of the teams in the old atlantic division are in the new atlantic division (facepalm)

I saw the new names but not where the teams were slotted, and thought to myself how weird it's going to be for the Rangers to be in the Atlantic but see/hear about a "Metropolitan" division since that's a word I hear associated with the NY area so much.

So instead, my head will pick up every time I hear Atlantic.

[Honolulu_Blue]

new division names:

atlantic
metropolitan
central
pacific

fun fact: none of the teams in the old atlantic division are in the new atlantic division (facepalm)

I am fine with these names. I mean after the whole Leaders/Legends thing in the Big Ten, my bar for divisional names is very, very low.

Though saying the "Metropolitan Division" is a bit of a mouthful. The Metro Division is Pittsburgh and then everyone else. The Atlantic should be pretty competitive.

[claphamsa]

Schedule is up. AVS come to DC when im in Sonoma.... lame.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Metropolitan Division ... srsly?

Did they ask the Big 10 to help them come up with something?

[Draft Dodger]

Metropolitan Division ... srsly?

Did they ask the Big 10 to help them come up with something?

seriously, how hard can it be to screw up division names. this league is run by idiots.

[Pyser]

atlantic and eastern wouldve worked fine for me.

or, you know, honor tradition and history. but lets be realistic.

[sterlingice]

atlantic and eastern wouldve worked fine for me.

or, you know, honor tradition and history. but lets be realistic.

Metropolitan Division ... srsly?

Did they ask the Big 10 to help them come up with something?

SI

[JonInMiddleGA]

Okay, I know this is a tempest in a teapot but I'm actually curious.

Saw the article today where the Bruins "Bieber-proofed" their locker room before his visit. When the hooha came in about logo incident in Chicago the espn.com (and some others) article mentioned how "Bieber should have known better" etc.

I may be Southern but I'm not exactly a complete hockey noob. I had a THN subscription for several years, I can still name a good portion of the initial Atlanta Flames roster and among my favorite calls in all of sports is Pat Foley (on SportsChannel Chicago, via the old school big ass satellite dish) screaming "Bannermannnnn !". I ain't Canadian but I think it's fair to say I'm above the curve in the U.S.

That said, in my entire life I don't think I've ever heard anything about the whole "don't step on the logo" deal until this Bieber stuff came up. Is it really THAT widely known & I'm just dim? Or is the "everybody knows that" aspect being blown out of proportion just because of the celebrity involved?

What say you FOFC, did everybody here know that unwritten rule already?

[Matthean]

If you want to make sure something isn't stepped on, don't put it on the floor.

[Young Drachma]

Okay, I know this is a tempest in a teapot but I'm actually curious.

Saw the article today where the Bruins "Bieber-proofed" their locker room before his visit. When the hooha came in about logo incident in Chicago the espn.com (and some others) article mentioned how "Bieber should have known better" etc.

I may be Southern but I'm not exactly a complete hockey noob. I had a THN subscription for several years, I can still name a good portion of the initial Atlanta Flames roster and among my favorite calls in all of sports is Pat Foley (on SportsChannel Chicago, via the old school big ass satellite dish) screaming "Bannermannnnn !". I ain't Canadian but I think it's fair to say I'm above the curve in the U.S.

That said, in my entire life I don't think I've ever heard anything about the whole "don't step on the logo" deal until this Bieber stuff came up. Is it really THAT widely known & I'm just dim? Or is the "everybody knows that" aspect being blown out of proportion just because of the celebrity involved?

What say you FOFC, did everybody here know that unwritten rule already?

I knew about the rule. It's usually if you step on it, you get fined. There's always someone who either does it unwittingly or accidentally steps on it. I think for Biebs it was the fact that he was standing on the logo WHILE taking a picture of the Stanley Cup he didn't earn INSIDE in the locker room. I just think there were too many things going on there to earn him the derision he got.

So I dunno if it's a "commonly known" thing, but I had heard of it well before and when I first saw the picture, I too, was incredulous that he had the gall to do it and that he didn't have any handlers who could admonish him of his error.

Obviously if it's not Bieber, it'd probably not be "news" but...yeah...it was a rookie move, but I usually blame the handlers of these people when they do stupid stuff, because someone ought to have known better.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Okay, I know this is a tempest in a teapot but I'm actually curious.

Saw the article today where the Bruins "Bieber-proofed" their locker room before his visit. When the hooha came in about logo incident in Chicago the espn.com (and some others) article mentioned how "Bieber should have known better" etc.

I may be Southern but I'm not exactly a complete hockey noob. I had a THN subscription for several years, I can still name a good portion of the initial Atlanta Flames roster and among my favorite calls in all of sports is Pat Foley (on SportsChannel Chicago, via the old school big ass satellite dish) screaming "Bannermannnnn !". I ain't Canadian but I think it's fair to say I'm above the curve in the U.S.

That said, in my entire life I don't think I've ever heard anything about the whole "don't step on the logo" deal until this Bieber stuff came up. Is it really THAT widely known & I'm just dim? Or is the "everybody knows that" aspect being blown out of proportion just because of the celebrity involved?

What say you FOFC, did everybody here know that unwritten rule already?

When I heard about this it rang some faint bell, but it wouldn't really be something that I would think about it. I might have heard something about it during one of the 24/7 episodes or something.

It's all a bunch nonsense.

[bbor]

Hockey lore...never step on your logo...and never let your jersey hit the floor....2 golden rules of the locker room.

Respect your logo.

[Logan]

It was a minor theme in "Goon" too.

[Draft Dodger]

Hockey lore...never step on your logo...and never let your jersey hit the floor....2 golden rules of the locker room.

Respect your logo.

okay, never new about the jersey thing

[Dr. Sak]

Meet Team USA's Head Coach and top 2 assistants for the upcoming Olympics.

http://i.imgur.com/CAL0A.jpg

[Fidatelo]

Jets re-sign Bryan Little for 5yrs/23.5m. At first blush this seemed about 1m/yr higher than I expected, but after seeing some comparables (Bozak, Gagner) it is perhaps in line with the current market. That said, Andrew Ladd must be pissed to see Little getting paid more than him. And this can only mean that Wheeler and Bogo are both probably going to average >5m/yr.

How are all of these teams going to stay under the cap in 3 years?

[Draft Dodger]

but the jester in the middle is Canadian, right?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Jets re-sign Bryan Little for 5yrs/23.5m. At first blush this seemed about 1m/yr higher than I expected, but after seeing some comparables (Bozak, Gagner) it is perhaps in line with the current market. That said, Andrew Ladd must be pissed to see Little getting paid more than him. And this can only mean that Wheeler and Bogo are both probably going to average >5m/yr.

How are all of these teams going to stay under the cap in 3 years?

Yeah, $4.5 - $5 million a year seems to be about the going rate for 20 goal/50 point centerman right now.

Based on most projections for "hockey related revenue", most expect that the salary cap will go up rather quickly over the next few (several?) years. At least that's what a lot of people are saying. If true, that salary floor will just keep going up and up and we'll be ready for another lockout once the current CBA is up. Like clockwork.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Jets re-sign Bryan Little for 5yrs/23.5m. At first blush this seemed about 1m/yr higher than I expected, but after seeing some comparables (Bozak, Gagner) it is perhaps in line with the current market. That said, Andrew Ladd must be pissed to see Little getting paid more than him. And this can only mean that Wheeler and Bogo are both probably going to average >5m/yr.

How are all of these teams going to stay under the cap in 3 years?

Sure they're spending $, but it's on their top players. After Wheeler and Bogo are signed (long term), the guy's they'll be signing after that will either be 1) coming off rookie contracts (Schieffle and Trouba) or 2) depth players who can be found in free agency.

The Penguins have a ton of $ tied up, especially at forward. But those guys are Crosby, Malkin, Neal, Kunitz, etc. Outside of Brandon Sutter on the 3rd line, and maybe Joe Vitale, none of the players who will be on the 3rd/4th lines this season will be here in 2 years.

Yeah, $4.5 - $5 million a year seems to be about the going rate for 20 goal/50 point centerman right now.

Based on most projections for "hockey related revenue", most expect that the salary cap will go up rather quickly over the next few (several?) years. At least that's what a lot of people are saying. If true, that salary floor will just keep going up and up and we'll be ready for another lockout once the current CBA is up. Like clockwork.

And this.

The ceiling is going to be back over $70m if not in 14-15, surely by 15-16.

You really only need to worry about the cap dropping again in the 2023 season, after the owners need to roll back salaries again.

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Learned something today that I am both amused and baffled by.

In Pittsburgh, or more precise, South Hills of the city, there are 3 amateur/developmental squads. Pittsburgh Predators (the squad my son is in), SHAHA Panthers, and Mount Lebanon Hornets (Ryan Malone played there).

The Hornets cut John Gibson twice during his bantam/midget years, before he went to the OHL.

[miked]

I can't believe the Devils signed Jagr. Blech.

[Dr. Sak]

Ping SR:

Andy Delmore retires

[Suburban Rhythm]

Ping SR:

Andy Delmore retires

An_y _elmore ...

He reached the peak of his career as a rookie in 2000 in that playoff matchup.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Jets re-sign Bryan Little for 5yrs/23.5m. At first blush this seemed about 1m/yr higher than I expected, but after seeing some comparables (Bozak, Gagner) it is perhaps in line with the current market. That said, Andrew Ladd must be pissed to see Little getting paid more than him. And this can only mean that Wheeler and Bogo are both probably going to average >5m/yr.

How are all of these teams going to stay under the cap in 3 years?

And we have a winner!

Wheeler 6 years, $33.6 = $5.6m per

[Fidatelo]

And we have a winner!

Wheeler 6 years, $33.6 = $5.6m per

It's nice to get Wheeler signed, but him making more than guys like Tavares and St. Louis is a bit of a stretch. That said, the Jets are in decent cap position and he is in the prime years of his career. If he can be a 65-75 point guy for most of that contract then I think it is worth it.