The Official 2014-15 NHL Thread

[Suburban Rhythm]

Under 24 hours, eh?

[The Jackal]

The East is so mediocre that everyone can feel hope, hooray!

I think the Jackets and Isles are going to be improved this year and the Flyers defense is a dumpster fire, so I wouldn't be surprised if they miss the playoffs. If they do miss the playoffs, I hope it involves selling old players with stupid contracts and getting McDavid or Eichel .. but they aren't that bad. Stuck as a fringe playoff team for a season or two before the young defenders are ready, bleh.

That said, they have enough offensive firepower to get in and if they do get in, anyone can win this East before probably getting stomped by the West.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pretty much. Outside of Buffalo and Ottawa, everyone has a nice shot. And even those two teams, with some breaks, could be competitive.

[The Jackal]

Pretty much. Outside of Buffalo and Ottawa, everyone has a nice shot. And even those two teams, with some breaks, could be competitive.

I think Florida and New Jersey have a lot of work to do as well. Devils could surprise me, maybe I'm just being biased.. but I don't see much there outside of good goaltending.

[Dr. Sak]

I think Florida and New Jersey have a lot of work to do as well. Devils could surprise me, maybe I'm just being biased.. but I don't see much there outside of good goaltending.

I'm worried about the Flyers. They didn't do anything to upgrade the defense, Kimmo is pretty much done. I think they are a borderline playoff team and wouldn't be surprised if they missed it.

I realize they need to go through a year like this...especially with what they have in the minors as far as defense goes.

Edit: You pretty much said the same thing two posts up.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I think Florida and New Jersey have a lot of work to do as well. Devils could surprise me, maybe I'm just being biased.. but I don't see much there outside of good goaltending.

Florida...I am not a Luongo fan. But he's always played well when forced to face a ridiculous number of shots. And that's what I expect this year.

They have enough talented young guys who should still be getting better.

I'm not sure they get in, but could see them in the race up til the end, finishing 10th in the East, and not 14th or 15th

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Boston, Tampa, Montreal, Pittsburgh and the Rangers would be my "locks" in the East.

Buffalo, Ottawa, and Carolina my most certain NOs

Then everyone else piled in the middle.

Toronto, Columbus, Philly and Isles the 4 fighting for those last 3 spots.

Think this is the year the Detroit streak ends.

NJ, Florida and Washington somewhere behind them, 11-13, but could grab the last spot with some breaks.

[The Jackal]

I'm worried about the Flyers. They didn't do anything to upgrade the defense, Kimmo is pretty much done. I think they are a borderline playoff team and wouldn't be surprised if they missed it.

I realize they need to go through a year like this...especially with what they have in the minors as far as defense goes.

Edit: You pretty much said the same thing two posts up.

We'll see how it goes. I think Hartnell for Umberger was a downgrade, but Umberger is a useful bottom 6 forward, at least, and it's somewhat addition by subtraction in terms of the reduction of minor penalties and the moveable contract.

Excited to see how Couturier and Read mesh with Simmonds.

But again, the story will be the defense. Will MacDonald learn how to play gaps better? Will his neutral zone play improve? Or will he and Coburn get skated around and pinned in deep most of the time. I like the Del Zotto signing, and there's decent balance amongst the 3 pairs in terms of one stay at home guy and one guy who can skate/pass ... but no one is envying our defensive situation/players.

And in goal, people expect Mason to regress to his career norm, and if the defense is the same as or worse than last year, that wouldn't be terribly surprising.

It's too early to be pessimistic, but it's also easy to look at 2 years down the line and salivate at the potential defensive setup we'll have.

[Fidatelo]

I'm foolishly optimistic about the Jets this year. I think Wheeler-Scheifele-Kane and Ladd-Little-Frolik are two very strong lines, and Lowry-Perrault-Byfuglien should be a quality third line as well. The fourth line might still suck although I liked what I saw out of Halischuk in the pre-season.

Defense is not great. I really wish they'd move Buff back, as a top pairing of Bogosian/Enstrom is not good. Trouba had a lacklustre pre-season but I'm optimistic he'll quickly get back to his amazing self. The rest of the defense is basically made up of borderline NHL'ers.

Goaltending. Much has been said about this. I'm not a fan of Pavelec, and I'm not sure anyone outside of the Jets organization is. This is his last chance to prove his detractors wrong. Apparently he came to camp in great shape, which has always been an issue for him, so there's that at least.

Hmmm, typing this out I feel even more foolish than when I started. I just really feel like those top 3 lines are quite solid. Who needs defense and goaltending, amirite?

I suppose the most likely outcome is another draft in the 7-10 spot.

[MizzouRah]

I am so PUMPED for Thursdays Blues - Rangers game!!! Let's GO BLUES!!!!!

[The Jackal]

Hmmm, typing this out I feel even more foolish than when I started. I just really feel like those top 3 lines are quite solid. Who needs defense and goaltending, amirite?

We already covered the Flyers. :D

[claphamsa]

Avs for the cup!!!!

[Neuqua]

Last chance for this Blackhawks team, salary cap is going to force them to make some big changes after this season.

[Sublime 2]

Last chance for this Blackhawks team, salary cap is going to force them to make some big changes after this season.

I think the Bruins are in a similar boat, as can be seen by the Boychuk trade. Chia is going to have some big decisions to make.

[DaddyTorgo]

Didn't realize how ready I was for hockey to be back till today.

[claphamsa]

ok, so talk me through this... NHL center ice through Verizon is 160. NHL gamecenter from the NHL is 159. so essentially no difference. I can run the game center through my blueray player... is there any differences other than which box it comes in on? Ie has anyone had a bad experience with game center?

[The Jackal]

ok, so talk me through this... NHL center ice through Verizon is 160. NHL gamecenter from the NHL is 159. so essentially no difference. I can run the game center through my blueray player... is there any differences other than which box it comes in on? Ie has anyone had a bad experience with game center?

I switched to gamecenter last year and was very happy with it. It's nice to have the option to have the TV freed up, especially if you live with someone else ;)

Gamecenter broadcasts everything in HD with both home and away feeds (streaming quality dependent on your internet strength, of course) - whereas center ice broadcasts are dependent on what service provider you use. I know when I had center ice there were only two channels that were HD and you didn't always have the option of which feed to choose. On the flip side it's nice to be able to record games on center ice, but I think technically you could have a game paused with gamecenter and come back to it - plus gamecenter makes it super easy to jump to goals if you just want to check out some highlights or catch up on a missed period.

[gstelmack]

I would consider GameCenter since I don't have cable, but they'll blackout all the Canes games that are on Fox Sports South, so what good would it do me?

[The Jackal]

I would consider GameCenter since I don't have cable, but they'll blackout all the Canes games that are on Fox Sports South, so what good would it do me?

Yeah blackouts are so annoying. I live in NYC so anytime the Flyers play the Rangers, Devils, or Islanders I have to watch on cable. And of course anytime they are on NBCSN or NHLN.

[claphamsa]

I switched to gamecenter last year and was very happy with it. It's nice to have the option to have the TV freed up, especially if you live with someone else ;)

Gamecenter broadcasts everything in HD with both home and away feeds (streaming quality dependent on your internet strength, of course) - whereas center ice broadcasts are dependent on what service provider you use. I know when I had center ice there were only two channels that were HD and you didn't always have the option of which feed to choose. On the flip side it's nice to be able to record games on center ice, but I think technically you could have a game paused with gamecenter and come back to it - plus gamecenter makes it super easy to jump to goals if you just want to check out some highlights or catch up on a missed period.


2 years ago it was only 2 HD last year it was almost all HD... Can you use gamecenter on an IPAD?

and can you watch the previous nights games? being a colorado fan means I never get to see them live...

[The Jackal]

2 years ago it was only 2 HD last year it was almost all HD...

Pretty sure it depends on your provider - I think if you have DirecTV or some other things you get them all in HD, but TimeWarner and probably other cable companies just those 2 channels. But I'm not positive there!

Can you use gamecenter on an IPAD?

Looks like it (www.nhl.com/devices/)

and can you watch the previous nights games? being a colorado fan means I never get to see them live...

Yep. And if you don't feel like watching the whole thing (like say they lost 7-1) you could just click on their one goal and then go on your merry way!

[claphamsa]

Pretty sure it depends on your provider - I think if you have DirecTV or some other things you get them all in HD, but TimeWarner and probably other cable companies just those 2 channels. But I'm not positive there!



Looks like it (www.nhl.com/devices/)



Yep. And if you don't feel like watching the whole thing (like say they lost 7-1) you could just click on their one goal and then go on your merry way!

COOL, THANKS seems like a clear winner to me. ( I have Verizon and that had most in HD)

[The Jackal]

The only decision left for me today is what kind of bottle to buy for the game tonight .. LETS GO FLYERS .. clap clap clap

[Lathum]

I love hockey but I just don't have time to follow it, especially since I live in Ohio and don't get Devils games.

I entered a Fandual NHL league tonight and realized just how out of touch I am when I built my team, I hardly recognized anyone.

Makes me a little sad, there was a time 20 years ago when I knew every player on every team.

[claphamsa]

The only decision left for me today is what kind of bottle to buy for the game tonight .. LETS GO FLYERS .. clap clap clap

yes? oh... you were chearing

[The Jackal]

I love hockey but I just don't have time to follow it, especially since I live in Ohio and don't get Devils games.

I entered a Fandual NHL league tonight and realized just how out of touch I am when I built my team, I hardly recognized anyone.

Makes me a little sad, there was a time 20 years ago when I knew every player on every team.

Do you get Jackets games? At least they are in the same division as the Devils now, so there's a handful of games. Not that I can understand why anyone would want to subject themselves to watching the Devils, of course.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I love hockey but I just don't have time to follow it, especially since I live in Ohio and don't get Devils games.

I entered a Fandual NHL league tonight and realized just how out of touch I am when I built my team, I hardly recognized anyone.

Makes me a little sad, there was a time 20 years ago when I knew every player on every team.

Hockey surpassed the NFL for me probably 5 years ago now. I'll still watch the Steelers, but rarely watch any other coverage.

I'm sure I'll catch bits of a few games tonight, and stay up watching NHLN way too late to catch highlights of games I have no rooting interest in.

[The Jackal]

Hockey surpassed the NFL for me probably 5 years ago now. I'll still watch the Steelers, but rarely watch any other coverage.

I'm sure I'll catch bits of a few games tonight, and stay up watching NHLN way too late to catch highlights of games I have no rooting interest in.

Hockey was always my #1, but the EPL has easily surpassed the NFL for me. Really the only reason I pay attention to football anymore is fantasy, which is a lot of fun.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Quit fantasy leagues 5 years ago too. Have not missed it.

Not sure if dropping fantasy caused me to enjoy NFL less...or enjoying NFL less led me to drop fantasy

[bronconick]

Sharks get to open this year at LA's banner raising after screwing around all offseason trying to get rid of Thornton. They're going to suuuuuuuuuuuck.

[The Jackal]

Sharks get to open this year at LA's banner raising after screwing around all offseason trying to get rid of Thornton. They're going to suuuuuuuuuuuck.

I highly doubt the Sharks are going to suck

[bronconick]

I highly doubt the Sharks are going to suck

Their major acquisition was John Scott.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Yup. The Sharks will be a top 5 team in the west and lose in the first round. Again.

[The Jackal]

Their major acquisition was John Scott.

I'm not saying that was smart, but they are still going to be a good team

[Fidatelo]

Just found out I get a free subscription to NHL GameCenter until Dec 31 via my Rogers wireless account. If this thing works well, I might be one step closer to cutting my cable cord...

[Neuqua]

Any good hockey podcasts out there?

[Fidatelo]

7 minutes in, Jets are looking fantastic! I can just extrapolate this over the rest of the season, right? Right?!

[Fidatelo]

Hmm, guess not.

[Fidatelo]

Kane has now headed to the dressing room after he was hit knee-on-knee by Scheifele a couple minutes earlier. Things are going downhill fast.

[Fidatelo]

Another goal! Jets to the Cup!

[Fidatelo]

I follow those weekly NFL threads, this is how it works, right?

[Fidatelo]

Wow 3-1! Winnipeg, fuck yeah!

[bronconick]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/492678968437248000/bIrMy3zt_bigger.jpeg Bob McKenzieVerified account ‏<s>@</s>TSNBobMcKenzie (https://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie)

It's official: Chris Pronger has been hired to work for <s>@</s>NHLPlayerSafety (https://twitter.com/NHLPlayerSafety).


Dude's still on LTIR.

[Neuqua]

Patrick Kane is really good at hockey.

[MrBug708]

Go Kings?

[JPhillips]

It's about eight minutes from the college to my house. Last night in that time there were three goals in the NJ/Philly game.

[Suburban Rhythm]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/492678968437248000/bIrMy3zt_bigger.jpeg Bob McKenzieVerified account ‏<s>@</s>TSNBobMcKenzie (https://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie)

It's official: Chris Pronger has been hired to work for <s>@</s>NHLPlayerSafety (https://twitter.com/NHLPlayerSafety).


Dude's still on LTIR.

Yeah...this makes zero sense

Cap circumvention is OK, as long as the league is behind it I guess.

[The Jackal]

Yeah...this makes zero sense

Cap circumvention is OK, as long as the league is behind it I guess.

This is a very bizarre situation. There's going to have to be some more detailed answers/explanations at some point..

[Suburban Rhythm]

This is a very bizarre situation. There's going to have to be some more detailed answers/explanations at some point..

Towards the end of the offseason thread I brought up Pronger and Savard.

Not sure why the league didn't put something in the CBA to get out from under these contracts while allowing retirements. They clearly don't want to destroy a teams cap structure by the loopholes in place. So just allow him to retire, eliminate the contract and move on.

[bbor]

Leafs are looking great so far this season......3-0 Pitt after 1.....Carlyle should start being concerned.ALOT.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Leafs are looking great so far this season......3-0 Pitt after 1.....Carlyle should start being concerned.ALOT.

I enjoyed it
:p

[bbor]

I enjoyed it
:p

Hornqvist looks great next to Sid,he was all over the place.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Hornqvist looks great next to Sid,he was all over the place.

Neal could do one thing, shoot. He did it really well, but if you took that away, not much else (unless you count kneeing people in the head! )

Still probably need one more top 6 winger- Malkin isn't staying at wing all year.

[bhlloy]

Buffalo has to be the front runner for the McDavid sweepstakes. They looked absolutely terrible this afternoon

[bronconick]

whooboy 7,311

Oh boy, the Panthers' arena is empty again (PHOTOS) | NHL | Sporting News (http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2014-10-13/florida-panthers-attendance-photos-empty-arena?eadid=SOC%2FFB%2FSNMain)

[molson]

whooboy 7,311

Oh boy, the Panthers' arena is empty again (PHOTOS) | NHL | Sporting News (http://www.sportingnews.com/nhl/story/2014-10-13/florida-panthers-attendance-photos-empty-arena?eadid=SOC%2FFB%2FSNMain)

This guy was on to something:

http://www.cavemag.com/my-year-as-a-florida-panthers-season-ticket-holder/

[BishopMVP]

Buffalo has to be the front runner for the McDavid sweepstakes. They looked absolutely terrible this afternoonIs the consensus still that McDavid's the definite #1? I saw Eichel put up 4 points in his 1st Hockey East game, although I see McDavid is averaging 3 ppg in the OHL as well.

[The Jackal]

Is the consensus still that McDavid's the definite #1? I saw Eichel put up 4 points in his 1st Hockey East game, although I see McDavid is averaging 3 ppg in the OHL as well.

I think McDavid is still expected to be the first pick, but that could change if Eichel outshines him. Either way 1-2 are going to get great players. Flyers probably aren't going to be -that- bad....

[Travis]

Oilers are on the road in LA tonight.

Eberle and Hopkins are both out due to injury (so 2/3 of their top line) and now they've healthy scratched Jeff Petry (likely their best D so far this season and for most of last season) so they can give Darnell Nurse his first NHL action. According to the coach, Petry is a bit behind because he didn't get a full camp in.

So yes, he's being sat down for game 3 of the season after playing the first 2 better than any other D on the team, on the road, against a very good team so a rookie can make his first start.

They also called up a rookie center to fill one of the forward spots along with one of the coaches kids (Will Acton).

The Oilers starting centers tonight are Boyd Gordon, Mark Arcobello, Leon Draisaitl (rookie) and Bogdan Yakimov (rookie).

Yes ladies and gentlemen, this is how at least one capped out NHL team actually does business.

[The Jackal]

Petry being a healthy scratch is very weird.

[BishopMVP]

Btw, Bruins just saved their season. Signed Simon Gagne! (Still can't understand why they re-signed Jordan Caron.)

[DaddyTorgo]

Btw, Bruins just saved their season. Signed Simon Gagne! (Still can't understand why they re-signed Jordan Caron.)

Bruins have been UGLY so far.

[The Jackal]

Btw, Bruins just saved their season. Signed Simon Gagne! (Still can't understand why they re-signed Jordan Caron.)

:(

But seriously very happy to see Gagne back in the NHL.

[johnnyshaka]

Bruins have been UGLY so far.

I call BULLSHIT.

-signed, Oilers' fan

[JPhillips]

I don't think they are Cup material, but the Caps look so much better with six NHL quality defensemen and an experienced head coach.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't think they are Cup material, but the Caps look so much better with six NHL quality defensemen and an experienced head coach.

6? I thought they signed Orpik?

:p

[Fidatelo]

I'm not sure what's happening with the Jets so far this year. They have had periods in most of their games where they just dominate the other team, but they can't seem to sustain it, nor capitalize on their chances. My eyes tell me that they are a far better team than last year's squad, but the results don't reflect that at all. Maybe it's just wishful thinking.

Oh and the locals are starting to boo at the end of home games, which is disgusting. The narrative that Winnipeg was some magical bastion of great fans that has kicked around since the Jets came back is quickly being exposed for the laughable myth that it's always been. There is a reason the first team left and it wasn't just because the arena wasn't fancy.

[Chief Rum]

I am petitioning for the NHL to not let the Ducks know that the postseason has started next April, and just let them think they are still playing regular season games.

[claphamsa]

no mention of the 23M contract for fleury?

[Honolulu_Blue]

This Pittsburgh/Winnipeg game is probably the best game I've watched all year. Very entertaining game.

[Suburban Rhythm]

no mention of the 23M contract for fleury?

I'm meh on it. They've pretty much tabbed Tristan Harry the goalie of the future, but he's a handfull of years away.

I could have done with a small cut from the $5m he's making now, but nothing major.

This Pittsburgh/Winnipeg game is probably the best game I've watched all year. Very entertaining game.

Only thing that was bad in that game was in the 3rd the number of even up calls and taking 2 guys off. Refs lost control end of the 2nd when Byfuglien wasn't given 10 immediately after hitting Downie after the goal.

But that was the most playoff-y game the Pens have been involved in this year.

[Fidatelo]

I'm meh on it. They've pretty much tabbed Tristan Harry the goalie of the future, but he's a handfull of years away.

I could have done with a small cut from the $5m he's making now, but nothing major.



Only thing that was bad in that game was in the 3rd the number of even up calls and taking 2 guys off. Refs lost control end of the 2nd when Byfuglien wasn't given 10 immediately after hitting Downie after the goal.

But that was the most playoff-y game the Pens have been involved in this year.

That game was awesome! I don't have a problem with Buff's hit on Downie. It wasn't all that late (yes, it was late and deserved a penalty, but not Hunter on Turgeon late) and, well, it was Downie. I don't think it deserved 10.

MAF was outstanding.

I loved seeing the Jets play that way (feisty, chippy, scrappy). They are starting to get a bit of attitude and I think they are realizing they can play with the big boys. They can't match teams like Pittsburgh in top-end skill, but they can skate and hit with anyone and that can keep them in games.

[Suburban Rhythm]

That game was awesome! I don't have a problem with Buff's hit on Downie. It wasn't all that late (yes, it was late and deserved a penalty, but not Hunter on Turgeon late) and, well, it was Downie. I don't think it deserved 10.

MAF was outstanding.

I loved seeing the Jets play that way (feisty, chippy, scrappy). They are starting to get a bit of attitude and I think they are realizing they can play with the big boys. They can't match teams like Pittsburgh in top-end skill, but they can skate and hit with anyone and that can keep them in games.

I'm not certain it deserved 10 either. But not giving him 10 opened the door for everything that happened after.

And no doubt that being Downie was a factor. I think handled differently if that a player without a reputation.

[BishopMVP]

Can't link from a phone, but I loved Maple Leafs article on the elimination of enforcers from the game. I still think fighting has a place in the game, and the NHL shouldn't go the way of NCAA where its an automatic suspension, but I have no problem with it only being used in particularly egregious situations.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Crazy ending in Pittsburgh vs Rangers

In the shootout, game tied 2-2, shootout 1-1, Dan Boyle is Rangers 3rd shooter

His shot clips Fleury's pad, then the post, then Boyle's stick. Called a goal.

As the teams file to the locker rooms, repeatedly blowing horn to alert teams officials calling to Toronto war room. After about a minute, ruled no goal.

Teams back out. Allegedly Fleury had already taken his jersey and upper pads off.

Sutter scores as 4th shooter for Pittsburgh. Nash stopped. Win Pittsburgh.

Nuts

[The Jackal]

Shootouts are stupid

[JPhillips]

Filip Forsberg's 22 points and +20 make me want to beat the living shit out of George McPhee. That has the potential to go down as the worst trade in NHL history.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Filip Forsberg's 22 points and +20 make me want to beat the living shit out of George McPhee. That has the potential to go down as the worst trade in NHL history.

Yeah. That trade didn't make any sense then - Erat wasn't playing all that well - and it's looking even worse now.

[JPhillips]

And Oates couldn't or wouldn't find a place for Erat.

[Suburban Rhythm]

And Oates couldn't or wouldn't find a place for Erat.

Didn't he go goalless his entire WSH tenure?

[JPhillips]

Nah, they scored a few times while Oates was coach. :)

Actually Erat scored twice once each season he was on the team.

[Suburban Rhythm]

So....mumps?

I had my money on scurvy at the start of the year

[Honolulu_Blue]

So....mumps?

I had my money on scurvy at the start of the year

I blame Jenny McCarthy.


And... there goes Dallas Eakins. Oh, Edmonton... Such a hot mess.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The details released re: Slava Voynov domestic abuse are pretty brutal.

[The Jackal]

The details released re: Slava Voynov domestic abuse are pretty brutal.

Wouldn't be surprised if he's played his last NHL game.

[Fidatelo]

http://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/sports/2014/12/12/sidney_crosby_s_face_swollen_but_does_he_have_the_mumps_/3939625578001_videoStillImage.jpg

[Honolulu_Blue]

Gah!

No offense, Fidatelo, but I am going to make a lot of posts here to get that picture off the page. Crosby is weird looking even when he doesn't (TOTALLY NOT!) have the mumps.

[Dr. Sak]

Gah!

No offense, Fidatelo, but I am going to make a lot of posts here to get that picture off the page. Crosby is weird looking even when he doesn't (TOTALLY NOT!) have the mumps.

And as it turns out you had the 87th post of this thread.

[Chief Rum]

Gah!

No offense, Fidatelo, but I am going to make a lot of posts here to get that picture off the page. Crosby is weird looking even when he doesn't (TOTALLY NOT!) have the mumps.

Yeah, that's almost a bannable offense. Since I like Fidatelo too much to report him, I will simply move Crosby's picture off the current page thread by posting the Jets' last 10-13 win loss records.

[Chief Rum]

2013-2014: 37-35-10 (7th, did not qualify for the playoffs)

[Chief Rum]

2012-2013: 24-21-3 (51 pts)-- 2nd in SE, didn't qualify for the playoffs

[Chief Rum]

2011-2012: 37-35-10 (84 pts)-- 4th in SE; did not qualify for playoffs

[Honolulu_Blue]

And as it turns out you had the 87th post of this thread.

Thanks for point that out, Sak. Thanks...

I had a discussion with a friend of mine who, for a while was convinced the mumps = mono and that Crosby must have contracted the disease by kissing Corey Perry. I told him that they were two different things and that the mumps were an infection of the salivary glands, which didn't help much.

[Chief Rum]

1995-96: 36-40-6 (78 pts)-- 5th Central (lost first round)

[Chief Rum]

1994-95: 16-25-7 (39 pts)-- 6th in Central; did not qualify for playoffs

[Chief Rum]

1993-94: 24-51-9 (57 pts)-- 6th in Central; did not qualify for playoffs

[Chief Rum]

1992-93: 40-37-7 (87 pts)-- 4th in Smythe (lost first round)

[Chief Rum]

1991-92: 33-32-15 (81 pts)-- 4th in Smythe (lost first round)

[Chief Rum]

1990-91: 26-43-11 (63 pts)-- 5th in Smythe; did not qualify for playoffs

[Chief Rum]

1989-90: 37-32-11 (85 pts)-- 3rd in Smythe (lost in first round)

[Chief Rum]

1988-89: 26-42-12 (64 pts)-- 5th in Smythe; did not qualify for playoffs

[Chief Rum]

Okay, good, now we can go to this thread again.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Good work, Chief.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I can't be the only one who feels like Dallas Eakins looks like David Tennant?

[Neuqua]

Duncan Keith out tonight, not sure if it's the Mumps.

[Fidatelo]

Hahaha, well played guys :)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins win the interwebz with their Christmas video

http://penguins.nhl.com/club/m_news.htm?id=744845

[Honolulu_Blue]

Penguins win the interwebz with their Christmas video

Pittsburgh Penguins (http://penguins.nhl.com/club/m_news.htm?id=744845)

Hrmm. I would watch it, but I'm afraid I'd get the mumps.

[JPhillips]

The Devils should review their history books. Triumverates never work out. I'm guessing Stevens will be the one to kill his rivals.

[BishopMVP]

I guess it's not too surprising since he's never been a PPG player, but I was still surprised to hear it's Bergeron's first ASG.

[BishopMVP]

The one downside to the Bruins catching fire is having to hear about how it's due to Lucic. No, it's Krejci returning and Pastrnak gaining a top 2 line spot. The team had plenty of "grit" and "hitting" when they were looking terrible last month, but they were desperately missing the creativity Krejci in particular brings.

[Fidatelo]

After downright embarrassing the Panthers on Tuesday 8-2 (a game I was at, best game ever!) the Jets absolutely stole two points from Dallas last night. I hope they got out of town before the sheriff's could track them down and take it back. Hopefully they can play the Hawks tonight with a bit more of what they brought on Tuesday.

Overall it's been a fun season, though. Buff is playing like the Buff we've all hoped he could be, and it is absolutely a blast to watch each night. He is such a beast.

[The Jackal]

After downright embarrassing the Panthers on Tuesday 8-2 (a game I was at, best game ever!) the Jets absolutely stole two points from Dallas last night. I hope they got out of town before the sheriff's could track them down and take it back. Hopefully they can play the Hawks tonight with a bit more of what they brought on Tuesday.

Overall it's been a fun season, though. Buff is playing like the Buff we've all hoped he could be, and it is absolutely a blast to watch each night. He is such a beast.

I've got Buff and Hutchinson on one of my fantasy teams and I'm digging it

[Fidatelo]

I've got Buff and Hutchinson on one of my fantasy teams and I'm digging it

Have you named the team Buffsky and Hutch yet?

[Coffee Warlord]

Just found out our CEO will be giving us his Blackhawks tickets for a first round playoff game. Including 2 on the glass, 2 10 rows up, and a skybox.

[The Jackal]

Have you named the team Buffsky and Hutch yet?

Heh, that'd be a good one

[Fidatelo]

Jets hit the break on a 5 game win streak and 6-0-1 in their last 7. So much fun to be a Jets fan right now. Looking forward to the stretch run and possibly a playoff series!!

[Chief Rum]

The Ducks also finish with a strong 6-3 win over the Flames. But, as usual for the Ducks, the story doesn't really start until the playoffs.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Jets hit the break on a 5 game win streak and 6-0-1 in their last 7. So much fun to be a Jets fan right now. Looking forward to the stretch run and possibly a playoff series!!

I just made a trade in fantasy hockey for Hutchinson. My goalie situation is akin to a dumpster fire.

They better keep it up!

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Ducks also finish with a strong 6-3 win over the Flames. But, as usual for the Ducks, the story doesn't really start until the playoffs.

Yeah, I agree. Due to their lack of recent playoff success, I sort of just ignore the fact that Anaheim has the best record and everything, which is silly, because they are really, really good.

I do not miss the Wings playing them so often.

[Fidatelo]

I just made a trade in fantasy hockey for Hutchinson. My goalie situation is akin to a dumpster fire.

I'm in the same boat, only I can't do anything about it (our trade deadline has passed I believe and we don't allow waiver pickups). I'm rolling (or more accurately crashing) with Rinne, Bobrovsky, and Mike Smith.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm in the same boat, only I can't do anything about it (our trade deadline has passed I believe and we don't allow waiver pickups). I'm rolling (or more accurately crashing) with Rinne, Bobrovsky, and Mike Smith.

I was trying to make a go of things with Bernier, Brodeur, Mason and (stuck in the minors) Gibson. Dubnyk became a stop gap after he was traded to Minnesota the other week, but that's not viable either.

[Fidatelo]

It will be interesting to see who gets more wins by the end of February, Bernier or Rinne :)

[Honolulu_Blue]

It will be interesting to see who gets more wins by the end of February, Bernier or Rinne :)

:(

[Galaxy]

GoPro, NHL in deal to bring cameras closer to the action - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/12217080/gopro-nhl-deal-bring-cameras-closer-action)

This could be really revolutionary in sports' broadcasting and engagement.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I love the concept, still think they're too big and bulky to be usable in a contact sport.

[Galaxy]

I love the concept, still think they're too big and bulky to be usable in a contact sport.

It's only a matter of time before this technology becomes so microscopic that it's implanted into the helmets and equipment. Think about our smartphone cameras.

[MizzouRah]

GoPro, NHL in deal to bring cameras closer to the action - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/12217080/gopro-nhl-deal-bring-cameras-closer-action)

This could be really revolutionary in sports' broadcasting and engagement.

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/F1jpCBPiWS4?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[EagleFan]

These all-star jerseys are butt ugly.

[JPhillips]

From the KHL skills competition.

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--kjHS9coX--/c_fit,fl_progressive,q_80,w_636/wjb0utdemmimtc0d9vjc.gif

[Vince, Pt. II]

Some awesome stuff there. I really hope the GoPro thing works, because it would be some incredible footage.

[Galaxy]

Some awesome stuff there. I really hope the GoPro thing works, because it would be some incredible footage.

Can you imagine the ability to watch the whole game from the helmet a player? Huge revenue stream, amazing marketing opportunity, and would improve hockey as a much better TV/streaming product. The next revolution will be built-in microcameras that stream wireless.

[EagleFan]

Slight typo (guess a Flyers fan prints their programs ;))...

[The Jackal]

:thumbsup:

[Fidatelo]

Well it looks as though Evander Kane's press box visit on Tuesday was because he wore a track suit to the rink. I can't wait for when the Jets trade him for 30 cents on the dollar. Ugh.

[Logan]

Kane skipped game after incident with teammates - Sportsnet.ca (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/kane-skipped-game-after-incident-with-teammates/)

[Fidatelo]

Yeah shit is blowing up here, it's all anyone can talk about. I'm sure we still don't know all the details yet but it's a big mess. Kane has been moved to IR and rumour has it he is going to have surgery for a nagging injury. Seems like he's basically done for the year, and I imagine he'll get traded in the off-season.

All this plus a 5 game losing streak. First playoffs since coming back to Winnipeg are looking very, very shaky.

[cuervo72]

Wait - since when do teams pull their goalie with 3:00 left in the game? (COL/DET when it was still 1-0)

[Fidatelo]

Roy pulls his goalie super early quite often, and I've seen other coaches moving that direction as well. I'm guessing some numbers guys somewhere have determined that the odds of scoring 6-5 vs 5-5 vs being scored against come out in favour of an early pull. Either that or Roy is just a nut and some other coaches are just copy cats. I'd say it's about 50/50 on either scenario :)

[cuervo72]

Huh. I could maybe buy that - I just hadn't seen it (I don't watch the NHL as often as I should) and it struck me as interesting.

Math or not, Roy is a nut though.

[Logan]

Huh. I could maybe buy that - I just hadn't seen it (I don't watch the NHL as often as I should) and it struck me as interesting.

Math or not, Roy is a nut though.

Recall it working successfully at least a couple of times in the playoffs too. It makes sense when you think about it. When you figure that the 6 man team usually dominates puck possession in a normal goalie pull situation that lasts roughly 1:15, and how the defending team is typically dead tired by the end...double that amount of time and it makes it more likely to be beat to loose pucks or fail to close space.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I just made a trade in fantasy hockey for Hutchinson. My goalie situation is akin to a dumpster fire.

They better keep it up!


All this plus a 5 game losing streak. First playoffs since coming back to Winnipeg are looking very, very shaky.

Sorry about this, Fidatelo. This is on me. For whatever reason, I am like Kryptonite to any goalie I have this year in fantasy.

[Fidatelo]

Sorry about this, Fidatelo. This is on me. For whatever reason, I am like Kryptonite to any goalie I have this year in fantasy.

You've Kryptonited an entire team this time, that's truly impressive!

[Honolulu_Blue]

You've Kryptonited an entire team this time, that's truly impressive!

Well, uh... I also did recently pick-up Evander Kane too. :(

[Easy Mac]

Being a dad can be awkward sometimes. My daughter's school has a system where you put a little sign in your car window for pickup after school.

Yesterday my mother-in-law couldn't get her, so I had to get out of work early to take her to gymnastics. Normally if I pick her up, its around 5:30 and she's been staying late, so I have to walk in and sign her out.

I pull up and don't have the sign, since I wasn't planning to get her. I say I'm here to pick her up and the teachers call for her to come over and she just sits there for 10 seconds with a puzzled look on her face, since she was expecting her grandma.

I have to tell the teachers, who I don't know, that I promise its my daughter. We share nervous laughter and my daughter finally gets to the car and is like "DADDY!", but man it's annoying when you have to prove to people that you're not trying to steal your own child.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Being a dad can be awkward sometimes. My daughter's school has a system where you put a little sign in your car window for pickup after school.

Yesterday my mother-in-law couldn't get her, so I had to get out of work early to take her to gymnastics. Normally if I pick her up, its around 5:30 and she's been staying late, so I have to walk in and sign her out.

I pull up and don't have the sign, since I wasn't planning to get her. I say I'm here to pick her up and the teachers call for her to come over and she just sits there for 10 seconds with a puzzled look on her face, since she was expecting her grandma.

I have to tell the teachers, who I don't know, that I promise its my daughter. We share nervous laughter and my daughter finally gets to the car and is like "DADDY!", but man it's annoying when you have to prove to people that you're not trying to steal your own child.

Gary Fuckin' Bettman... What'll he think of next?

[Fidatelo]

Gary Fuckin' Bettman... What'll he think of next?

:lol:

[Fidatelo]

Well, uh... I also did recently pick-up Evander Kane too. :(

:cry:

[BishopMVP]

Hate to even jump the gun, but for the Ducks fans how are you guys set up at D going forward? Brandon Montour is killing it for us since passing the NCAA Clearinghouse (2nd in Hockey East PPG behind some Jack Eichel kid), and I'm hoping we'll have him for a couple more years and Anaheim isn't desperate for an offensive defenseman that's still on the smaller side.

[Chief Rum]

Hate to even jump the gun, but for the Ducks fans how are you guys set up at D going forward? Brandon Montour is killing it for us since passing the NCAA Clearinghouse (2nd in Hockey East PPG behind some Jack Eichel kid), and I'm hoping we'll have him for a couple more years and Anaheim isn't desperate for an offensive defenseman that's still on the smaller side.

Actually, we're pretty strong at the moment in that department. Vatanen has been terrific in his first real opportunity this year, and Lindholm was last year's revelation. And of course our best offensive defenseman is probably former high draft pick Cam Fowler (although without looking at team stats, I think he is behind Vatanen right now in points). We have a smattering of vets who can contribute, even if they're not great offensive players, like Beauchemin and Lovejoy.

All that said, I am sure we won't mind adding more talent to an already very deep and talented farm system. ;)

[bhlloy]

Montour won't be needed any time soon. The Ducks are loaded with offensive defensemen, in addition to the guys Chief mentioned there is Shea Theodore in the system ahead of him

[BishopMVP]

Actually, we're pretty strong at the moment in that department. Vatanen has been terrific in his first real opportunity this year, and Lindholm was last year's revelation. And of course our best offensive defenseman is probably former high draft pick Cam Fowler (although without looking at team stats, I think he is behind Vatanen right now in points). We have a smattering of vets who can contribute, even if they're not great offensive players, like Beauchemin and Lovejoy.

All that said, I am sure we won't mind adding more talent to an already very deep and talented farm system. ;)No need to start those years of control in the AHL... Let him develop in college haha

[MikeVic]

Kane, Bogosian dealt to Sabres in eight-player blockbuster deal - Article - TSN (http://www.tsn.ca/kane-bogosian-dealt-to-sabres-in-eight-player-blockbuster-deal-1.205003)

Don't know a lot about some of these guys, but I guess the Jets actually got something of value in return so that's good. :p I wonder if they will still make another deal trading away a Dman for a better forward?

[Galaxy]

Sabres gave up a lot. Holy cow.

[BishopMVP]

Congrats Evander Kane. You complained so much about the weather in Winnipeg we traded you to somewhere warmer!

Myers does have negative value with his cap hit, but yeah both those 2 prospects and a late 1st is a nice job by Winnipeg past the obvious on-ice upgrade for the playoff push.

[Fidatelo]

Chevy did really well on this trade. Bogo for Myers is basically even, and Myers is actually cheaper in actual cash (which matters to Winnipeg more than cap space). Plus Bogo has always been rumored to like to party a bit too much and might have been pulling Trouba down that road with him, so it's good to break up that negative influence.

Then you get all that other stuff for Kane, who everyone knew was never putting on a Jets jersey again, and I think that's a win, even if Stafford leaves after the year.

[MikeVic]

Congrats Evander Kane. You complained so much about the weather in Winnipeg we traded you to somewhere warmer!

Myers does have negative value with his cap hit, but yeah both those 2 prospects and a late 1st is a nice job by Winnipeg past the obvious on-ice upgrade for the playoff push.

According to this site, Myers is cheaper than Bogo and his salary goes down each year?

http://winnipegwhiteout.com/news/trade-alert-instant-analysis/

[Galaxy]

Chevy did really well on this trade. Bogo for Myers is basically even, and Myers is actually cheaper in actual cash (which matters to Winnipeg more than cap space). Plus Bogo has always been rumored to like to party a bit too much and might have been pulling Trouba down that road with him, so it's good to break up that negative influence.

Then you get all that other stuff for Kane, who everyone knew was never putting on a Jets jersey again, and I think that's a win, even if Stafford leaves after the year.

The more I process this trade, the more I think it's a win-win for both teams. The Sabres might of overpaid, but they get a player in Kane, who hopefully gets healthy and the change of scenery helps with the off-ice issues, who can be a game-changing player. Provided last year's No. 2 overall pick, Sam Reinhart, and this year's pick--very likely McDavid or Eichel--pan out, the Sabres will have three young forwards with all-star potential. And Kane won't have to be the "face" of the franchise in Buffalo-likely McDavid or Eichel will be.

Stafford is a great piece for Winnipeg--change of scenery might help with him as well. Rumors are that Lemieux wasn't going to sign with Buffalo-quite the diva move for a guy who a second-round pick last year. Armia could be a really good player. The Sabres didn't need to give up that first round pick, though. Just seems like a tad too much.

[Galaxy]

Dola...

Sabres also just moved G Jhonas Enroth to Dallas for G Andres Lindback and a conditional 2016 3rd round pick.

[MikeVic]

What is the best hockey management game out there?

[Fidatelo]

I've never found anything better than the old free EHM. You can still get it at Fhockey - Home of Eastside Hockey Manager (http://ehm.fhockey.com/EHM%20game.php)

I think I remember liking the 1.16 version the best but it's been a bit.

[Pumpy Tudors]

A little late to the party here, but I don't think the Sabres really gave up too much in the Kane deal. Myers is a defenseman who doesn't seem interested in clearing the front of the net even though he's big. Armia hasn't really shown anything terribly impressive at the AHL level yet. Lemieux may turn out to be great, but he's not his father yet. Stafford wasn't going to get re-signed by the Sabres anyway (at least not if they were smart), so there's no need to keep him around.

So the Sabres get Bogosian, who actually seems to have an interest in playing defense. Then there's Kane, who has the opportunity to play with McDavid or Eichel next year.

Obviously, the Sabres don't want to win any games this year, so Kane being injured right now doesn't hurt them at all. Seems like a great deal to build for the future, especially since the Sabres have about 16 million draft picks over the next couple of years. I don't think it's a huge loss giving up Armia and Lemieux.

Then again, I'm a Devils fan, so I'm probably pretty terrible at evaluating a team's future, given that my team has no future.

[BishopMVP]

I've never found anything better than the old free EHM. You can still get it at Fhockey - Home of Eastside Hockey Manager (http://ehm.fhockey.com/EHM%20game.php)

I think I remember liking the 1.16 version the best but it's been a bit.I always got an annoying number of RTE9 errors running that... Was there an easy workaround to that somewhere?

[Galaxy]

Sad news:

Former NHLer dead at 35; was depressed after concussion | New York Post (http://nypost.com/2015/02/15/nhls-steve-montador-dead-at-35-was-depressed-after-concussion/)

"CHICAGO — Former NHL defenseman Steve Montador was found unconscious in his home in Mississauga, Ontario, early Sunday morning and was later pronounced dead, according to the Peel Region Police. He was 35.

No foul play was suspected.

Montador last played in the NHL for the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2011-12 season. He missed the 2012-13 season recovering from a concussion. He said he battled depression as a physical symptom of the brain injury.

“I know people talk about sports being a microcosm for life, and it’s very true that way,” he said in March 2013, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. “I can see why people have a hard time with … being taken away from something they love to do. There’s a lot of uncertainty, a lot of fear, a lot of anxiety and depression. I’ve had a lot of help to work through that, and I feel like I’ve taken the right steps.”

[Galaxy]

A little late to the party here, but I don't think the Sabres really gave up too much in the Kane deal. Myers is a defenseman who doesn't seem interested in clearing the front of the net even though he's big. Armia hasn't really shown anything terribly impressive at the AHL level yet. Lemieux may turn out to be great, but he's not his father yet. Stafford wasn't going to get re-signed by the Sabres anyway (at least not if they were smart), so there's no need to keep him around.

So the Sabres get Bogosian, who actually seems to have an interest in playing defense. Then there's Kane, who has the opportunity to play with McDavid or Eichel next year.

Obviously, the Sabres don't want to win any games this year, so Kane being injured right now doesn't hurt them at all. Seems like a great deal to build for the future, especially since the Sabres have about 16 million draft picks over the next couple of years. I don't think it's a huge loss giving up Armia and Lemieux.

Then again, I'm a Devils fan, so I'm probably pretty terrible at evaluating a team's future, given that my team has no future.

The Sabres tried to sign Lemieux--apparently wasn't going to sign with Buffalo.

[The Jackal]

1) Sad about Montador
2) Don't know enough about Armia/Lemieux to know if the Sabres overpaid, but Myers, Kane, and maybe even Bogosian needed a change of scenery so I like it from both sides
3) Nashville picking up Franson seems to have gone under the radar .. not that they really needed help on defense but damn do I envy that backline

[bbor]

Wish the Laffs would have been able to re-sign Santorelli....guy is pure hustle and can make things happen,one of the few bright spots in Toronto this season.I think he is a highly underated player.Great 3rd liner who can fill in on the 2nd line in a pinch.

Fransen...Meh....He wants more than 5mil per season to re-sign.I like him,but not at that price.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Wish the Laffs would have been able to re-sign Santorelli....guy is pure hustle and can make things happen,one of the few bright spots in Toronto this season.I think he is a highly underated player.Great 3rd liner who can fill in on the 2nd line in a pinch.

Fransen...Meh....He wants more than 5mil per season to re-sign.I like him,but not at that price.

bbor!

The 2014-2015 Toronto Maple Leafs resemble what you'd find in your toilet after you've made a Run For The Border!

[bbor]

bbor!

The 2014-2015 Toronto Maple Leafs resemble what you'd find in your toilet after you've made a Run For The Border!

Hahahahah...True Nuff!

[Galaxy]

Has SportsCenter and ESPN started to give the NHL more highlight and media coverage recently?

[Jon]

Has SportsCenter and ESPN started to give the NHL more highlight and media coverage recently?

I think it happens when football season is over.

I noticed this last year as well.

[Fidatelo]

With a loss to the Leafs last night the Jets playoff chances are looking pretty dour. Unless they can make a move for a top-9 forward to cover up for the loss of Perrault and get Buff back on 'D' I don't like their odds.

That said, I'm OK with another playoff miss if getting that top-9 forward would mean trading away anything more than one or two of our glut of 3rd pairing d-men and a low-wish pick. No point mortgaging the future at this point.

[Galaxy]

Will the KHL survive? The Russian economy will continue to cater--as long as Putin is around and oil stays relatively low.

[Neuqua]

Patrick Kane out up to 10 weeks. Was having the best season of his career. What a bummer.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Patrick Kane out up to 10 weeks. Was having the best season of his career. What a bummer.

So that probably means he's out until the 2nd or 3rd round of the playoffs.

Ouch.

[Fidatelo]

Jets picked up Jiri Tlusty from the Canes for a 3rd round pick and a conditional 5/6 pick. Seems like a good price for a decent rental. Hopefully he can help them stay in the playoff picture until Wheeler and eventually Perrault get healthy.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Patrick Kane out up to 10 weeks. Was having the best season of his career. What a bummer.

Now they are saying 12 weeks. Yikes!

[Logan]

Love this...Ulf Samuelsson's kid Henrik is making his NHL debut tonight with Arizona. And Ulf will be there...coaching against him at MSG.

Second kid of his to make it to the NHL in a week

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Devils traded Jagr to Florida for a 2nd this year and a 3rd next year.

Crap. I really wanted the Wings to get Jagr. I've always wanted to play in Detroit for at least a bit.

Ah well. If this means that Florida catches Boston and knocks them out of the playoffs, I might... might be okay with this.

[SackAttack]

Conditional 3rd, ahem

And the Panthers have a proud history of being the NHL's retirement home. Welcome, Jagr.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Conditional 3rd, ahem

And the Panthers have a proud history of being the NHL's retirement home. Welcome, Jagr.

As I read it, the Devils will get a 3rd. It just depends which one.

[bbor]

Great trade by Toronto to get out from under Clarksons contract.....Debatable on what Columbus was thinking.

Best i have heard is Hortons contract was not insured and that Columbus rather pay a player that's actually playing.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Great trade by Toronto to get out from under Clarksons contract.....Debatable on what Columbus was thinking.

Best i have heard is Hortons contract was not insured and that Columbus rather pay a player that's actually playing.

I think it's pretty simple.

Because Horton's contract wasn't insured, Columbus had to pay the full amount. They are a budget team. They have internal financial restrictions that are below the cap. They had a player they were paying over $5 million a year who was doing nothing and likely wouldn't be anything in the future.

Toronto has plenty of cash. Their main constraint is the cap. Since they can put Horton on LTIR and, therefore, not have his salary count against the cap, they were willing to take Horton (more accurately, Horton's uninsured contract) on.

In return, the Blue Jackets did add a little salary, but at least they are now spending this money on a player who can actually, you know, play.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Scary, but great piece

http://www.theplayerstribune.com/in-my-blood/

[bbor]

I think it's pretty simple.

Because Horton's contract wasn't insured, Columbus had to pay the full amount. They are a budget team. They have internal financial restrictions that are below the cap. They had a player they were paying over $5 million a year who was doing nothing and likely wouldn't be anything in the future.

Toronto has plenty of cash. Their main constraint is the cap. Since they can put Horton on LTIR and, therefore, not have his salary count against the cap, they were willing to take Horton (more accurately, Horton's uninsured contract) on.

In return, the Blue Jackets did add a little salary, but at least they are now spending this money on a player who can actually, you know, play.

I could see a team like...say Chicago trading the Leafs for Horton now...they could certainly use the cap relief with Taews and Kanes 13 mil deals starting next season.

[Wolfpack]

Let's see, Carolina trades away Tlusty and Sekera for a handful of picks and a decent prospect, then shuts out Washington 3-0 tonight. Makes sense.

No, really, it does. It's time for the Canes to go on their annual push to ruin whatever chances they have at getting a top draft pick. They've won 4 of 6 and 6 out of 10. They're now a full six points clear of Arizona for 27th place (and thus TWO slots below the McDavid/Eichel draft positions) and two points behind Toronto and three behind Columbus. Yep, gonna be picking in that 6-10 range they never seem to escape from year after year.

[BishopMVP]

I could see a team like...say Chicago trading the Leafs for Horton now...they could certainly use the cap relief with Taews and Kanes 13 mil deals starting next season.LTIR doesn't work that way, it just enables you to ignore the injured players salary. The Leafs found an ingenious way to use their money to get out from an atrocious contract but I don't think the Hawks have any bad players with high cap numbers. Just really high cap numbers (and really long terms) for good players.

[Suburban Rhythm]

LTIR doesn't work that way, it just enables you to ignore the injured players salary. The Leafs found an ingenious way to use their money to get out from an atrocious contract but I don't think the Hawks have any bad players with high cap numbers. Just really high cap numbers (and really long terms) for good players.

Bickell. And his deal isn't all that bad, and only two more years.

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

The Blackhawks rumors floating around, mainly Twitter, are rather...explosive.

An alleged fight occurred in the locker room. The rumor floated is Sharp has been sleeping with Kane's girlfriend, and Keith's wife.

Ouch.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Scary, but great piece

http://www.theplayerstribune.com/in-my-blood/

Great read, thanks for sharing.

[bbor]

LTIR doesn't work that way, it just enables you to ignore the injured players salary. The Leafs found an ingenious way to use their money to get out from an atrocious contract but I don't think the Hawks have any bad players with high cap numbers. Just really high cap numbers (and really long terms) for good players.

But.....If say the Hawks are at 78 mil over the summer....(allowed to be 10% over in summer) they could trade a large contract to the leafs for Horton,Take 5 mil off the cap by putting Horton on LTIR and dump a 3-4 mil contract and be under the cap.The Hawks need to shed money in the summer once those contracts kick in.

[bbor]

Let's see, Carolina trades away Tlusty and Sekera for a handful of picks and a decent prospect, then shuts out Washington 3-0 tonight. Makes sense.

No, really, it does. It's time for the Canes to go on their annual push to ruin whatever chances they have at getting a top draft pick. They've won 4 of 6 and 6 out of 10. They're now a full six points clear of Arizona for 27th place (and thus TWO slots below the McDavid/Eichel draft positions) and two points behind Toronto and three behind Columbus. Yep, gonna be picking in that 6-10 range they never seem to escape from year after year.

See:Leafs,Toronto

[Honolulu_Blue]

DOLA

The Blackhawks rumors floating around, mainly Twitter, are rather...explosive.

An alleged fight occurred in the locker room. The rumor floated is Sharp has been sleeping with Kane's girlfriend, and Keith's wife.

Ouch.

Wow. Patrick Sharp is quite the lothario it seems.

[Logan]

The Yandle trade makes me excited and nervous at the same time. He's the perfect defenseman for AV's system, and transitioning the puck out of the zone has really been the only weakness that the Rangers have shown since things got clicking back in December. It also showed up during the Finals last year when the back line couldn't quite handle LA's stronger forwards when trying to get the puck out.

Duclair is a really strong looking prospect and has already shown some nice production at a very young age, albeit over a small stretch. But while this team is built to win now, there is enough youth on the current team where it's not quite mortgaging the entire future. Glad to see we're going for it.

[Grover]

I am very pleased with the haul Philly has gotten for both Kimmo and Coburn.

Now if only we can move McDonald, Lecavalier...

[Honolulu_Blue]

I am very pleased with the haul Philly has gotten for both Kimmo and Coburn.

Now if only we can move McDonald, Lecavalier...

That was a really good haul for Coburn. I don't quite get that one from Tampa.

[Fidatelo]

Chevy is killing it at the bargain racks this month. Stempniak for Klingberg is a nice playoff-push addition for a piece that clearly was not part of the Jets plans. Should be interesting to see if anything more happens today. At some point I've gotta figure he's done just because the dressing room is going to be half new guys soon.

[JPhillips]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p>Way to go <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TradeCentre?src=hash">#TradeCentre</a> <a href="http://t.co/sUlC5oNJGI">pic.twitter.com/sUlC5oNJGI</a></p>&mdash; J-E (@JE_Iannicello) <a href="https://twitter.com/JE_Iannicello/status/572410254610153473">March 2, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Neuqua]

Blackhawks trade Ben Smith to SJ, no word on the return yet.

Update: Looks like Andrew Desjardins is headed back to Chicago.

[Logan]

This is really great and all but Jordan Leopold really named his daughter Jordyn?

Jordan Leopold’s daughter asks Wild to ‘bring dad home’ and they do | Puck Daddy - Yahoo Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/jordan-leopold-s-daughter-asks-wild-to--bring-dad-home--and-they-do-202042091.html?soc_src=mediacontentstory&soc_trk=tw)

[Honolulu_Blue]

This is really great and all but Jordan Leopold really named his daughter Jordyn?

Jordan Leopold’s daughter asks Wild to ‘bring dad home’ and they do | Puck Daddy - Yahoo Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/jordan-leopold-s-daughter-asks-wild-to--bring-dad-home--and-they-do-202042091.html?soc_src=mediacontentstory&soc_trk=tw)

That was my exact reaction to this story as well.

[BishopMVP]

But.....If say the Hawks are at 78 mil over the summer....(allowed to be 10% over in summer) they could trade a large contract to the leafs for Horton,Take 5 mil off the cap by putting Horton on LTIR and dump a 3-4 mil contract and be under the cap.The Hawks need to shed money in the summer once those contracts kick in.Can't put a player on LTIR until the season starts, which is (partly) why the Bruins traded Boychuk in preseason instead of just sticking Savard on there.

Blackhawks will be fine Chicago Blackhawks 2015 Salary Cap Table | Spotrac (http://www.spotrac.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/cap/2015/) . Worst case they'll salary dump a Bickell, Versteeg or Seabrook because their contracts run out soon. (The Corey Crawford deal also continues to look bad for exactly the reasons predicted, but I don't think Toronto would want him for Horton.)

[The Jackal]

DOLA

The Blackhawks rumors floating around, mainly Twitter, are rather...explosive.

An alleged fight occurred in the locker room. The rumor floated is Sharp has been sleeping with Kane's girlfriend, and Keith's wife.

Ouch.

Of course a former flyer is embroiled in that kind of controversy.

[The Jackal]

I am very pleased with the haul Philly has gotten for both Kimmo and Coburn.

Now if only we can move McDonald, Lecavalier...

Agreed - was hoping that 1 or more of AMac, Vinny, or Grossmann would be headed out, but love the return we got for Kimmo and Coburn. Hextall said he didn't want to "shred" the team in the playoff race (a whopping 2.9% or something of a chance left) - hopefully he'll find some takers in the offseason. Though the plan seems to be more about 2017 and beyond

[bhlloy]

Pens trade Despres to the ducks to get Lovejoy back - seems like a big win for the Ducks to me, what am I missing?

Also continuing with the defensemen going back to a previous team Wisniewski back to the Ducks, for Karlsson and a second (plus the corpse of Rene Bourque) Don't hate that deal either outside of his contract which is a million or so too high. All in all a good deadline for the Ducks.

[Chief Rum]

Pens trade Despres to the ducks to get Lovejoy back - seems like a big win for the Ducks to me, what am I missing?

Also continuing with the defensemen going back to a previous team Wisniewski back to the Ducks, for Karlsson and a second (plus the corpse of Rene Bourque) Don't hate that deal either outside of his contract which is a million or so too high. All in all a good deadline for the Ducks.

I remember many neutral zone turnovers from one James Wisniewski when he was a Duck. I am hopeful he is better about that now than he was, but his plus/minus totals don't suggest he has.

[bhlloy]

He was very very good last year and +/- really doesn't mean much, especially on a crappy team. I'm cautiously happy about both moves, although the contract is steep for Wiz. Both Depres and Wiz have some very nice looking advanced stats.

[Dr. Sak]

Agreed - was hoping that 1 or more of AMac, Vinny, or Grossmann would be headed out, but love the return we got for Kimmo and Coburn. Hextall said he didn't want to "shred" the team in the playoff race (a whopping 2.9% or something of a chance left) - hopefully he'll find some takers in the offseason. Though the plan seems to be more about 2017 and beyond

I like the fact that there is a plan and he will follow through with it even though there will be growing pains.

Homer would have bought during the deadline to get the Flyers into the 8 seed and only to have them lose in the first round.

[Fidatelo]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10492101_10153171974620972_1900752946954826286_n.jpg?oh=9edd014f18263787c42ee69a2768d53c&oe=558F77C7&__gda__=1434665874_dbeeae0d5486d9292e98b8ddb23ca176

[MikeVic]

What! Does anyone have the actual rankings or prospects and stuff?

[Fidatelo]

What! Does anyone have the actual rankings or prospects and stuff?

I think THN has just teased the cover, I'm not sure when the issue actually comes out.

[Logan]

I'll miss seeing the Duke on the Rangers list.

[MikeVic]

I'm not familiar with NHL contracts too much, but on the radio this morning some talking guys thought this contract was nuts. It does seem to be haha. Is there a way to defend this? I think they were worried that if he can command this money, what is Byfuglien worth?

Johnny Boychuk of New York Islanders agrees to terms on seven-year contract - NHL.com - News (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=757744)

[Honolulu_Blue]

I really like Boychuck. I think he's a really good player. Big, strong, defensively responsible and has a big shot on the power play. But $6 million a year over 7 years seems a bit excessive for him.

[Logan]

He was shaping up to get about that much on the open market, it seems - I had read a couple things around the deadline saying he would be the top FA defenseman and those guys always get paid. The term is probably longer though. I would have thought the Isles could have kept him for 5.5x5 or something similar. He basically beat out the Niskanen deal (7 years, $40MM) and that was with no one to negotiate against.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Regarding prospects, I quit getting THN years back, but still order the Future Watch every year. I'll post details once I have it.

[Draft Dodger]

Matthew Wuest, founder of CapGeek, has passed away (http://metronews.ca/news/halifax/1318169/matthew-wuest-metro-halifax-sports-reporter-and-capgeek-founder-dies-of-cancer/). Really a shame. Figured it was something like this when he abruptly shut down the site.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Regarding prospects, I quit getting THN years back, but still order the Future Watch every year. I'll post details once I have it.

Bumping for FW issue

I'll post the teams of those I know, anybody else, ask and I'll posted

[Suburban Rhythm]

We'll start with the 2019 Stanley Cup Champions*, The Winnipeg Jets!
*per THN

Prospect Rank 1 of 30
Prospect Grade A
+/- (difference between avg draft spot and ranking) 1tth with a +4 (ADR 5/rank 1)

21 & under NHLersLowry, Scheifele, Trouba

1 (4th overall) Nik Ehlers - LW - Halifax(QMJHL) - 9th in 2014
2 (18th overall) Josh Morrissey - D - Kelowna(WHL) - 13th 2013
3 (44th overall) Joel Armia - RW - St Johns(AHL) - Trade w/ BUF 2-11-15
4 (47th overall) Nic Petan - C - Portland(WHL) - 43rd 2013
5 (67th overall) Connor Hellebucyk - G - St Johns(AHL) - 130th 2012
6 (74th overall) Brendan Lemieux - LW - Barrie(OHL) - Trade w/ BUF
7 Eric Comre - G - TriCity(WHL) - 59th 2013
8 Andrew Copp - C - Michigan(Big Ten) - 104th 2013
9 Scott Kosmachuk - RW - St Johns(AHL) - 70th 2012
10 JC Lipon - RW - St Johns(AHL) - 91st 2013

[Suburban Rhythm]

Anaheim

Prospect rank 2
Prospect grade A
+/-2nd at +15 (ADR 17/rank 2)

21 & Under NHLers Gibson, Lindholm, and Rakell

1 (16 overall) Nick Ritchie - LW - SS Marie(OHL)- 10th 2014
2 (20th overall) Shea Theodore - D - Seattle(WHL) - 26th 2013
3 William Karlsson - C - Norfolk(AHL) - 53rd 2011
4 Nic Kerdiles - LW- Norfolk(AHL) - 36th 2012
5 Josh Manson - D - Norfolk(AHL) - 160th 2011
6 Marcus Pettersson - D - Skelleftea(SWE) - 38th 2014
7 Brandon Montour - D - UMass-Amherst(HE) - 55th 2014
8 Stefan Noesen - RW - Norfolk(AHL) - Trade w/ OTT 7-5-13
9 Nick Sorensen - RW - Skelleftea(SWE) - 45th 2013
10 Kevin Roy LW - Northeastern(HE) - 97th 2012

[Chief Rum]

Love seeing all that talent in the Ducks' system. Thanks SR!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Boston

Prospect Rank 18
Prospect grade B-
+/- tied 6th at +7 (ADR 25 / rank 18)

21 & Under NHLers Hamilton, Pastrnak

1 (41 overall) Malcolm Subban - G - Providence(AHL) - 24th 2012
2 (73 overall) Joe Morrow - D - Providence(AHL) - Trade w/ DAL
3 Alex Khokhlachev - C -Providence(AHL) - 40th 2011
4 Ryan Donato - C - Dexter (USHS) - 56th 2014
5 Linus Arnesson - D - Djugarden(SWE) - 60th 2013
6 Ryan Spooner - C - Providence(AHL) - 45th 2010
7 Danton Heinen - C - Denver(NCHC) - 116th 2014
8 Brian Ferlin - RW - Providence(AHL) - 121st 2011
9 Ryan Fitzgerald - C - Boston College(HE) - 120th 2013
10 Peter Cehlarik - LW - Lulea(SWE) - 90th 2013

[Suburban Rhythm]

Buffalo

Prospect Rank 4
Prospect grade A-
+/- 16th at even (ADR4/rank 4)

21 & Under NHLers Girgensons, Risolainen, Zadorov

1 (1 overall) Sam Reinhart - C - Kootenay(WHL) - 2nd 2014
2 (38 overall) Mikhail Grigoerenko - C - Rochester(AHL) - 12th 2012
3 (75 overall) Hudson Fasching - RW - Minnesota(Big10) - Trade w/ LA
4 Jake McCabe - D - Rochester(AHL) - 44th 2012
5 Mark Pysyk - D - Rochester(AHL) - 23rd 2013
6 Nick Baptiste - RW - Erie(OHL) - 69th 2013
7 Justin Bailey - RW - SS Marie(OHL) - 52nd 2013
8 JT Compher - LW - Michigan(Big10) - 35th 2013
9 Linus Ullmark - G - Modo(SWE) - 163rd 2012
10 William Carrier - LW - Rochester(AHL) - Trade w/ STL

[Suburban Rhythm]

Detroit

Prospect Rank 9
Prospect grade B+
+/- 1st at +17 (ADR 26/ rank 9)

21 & Under NHLers none

1 (6th overall) Anthony Mantha - RW - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 20th 2013
2 (10th overall) Dylan Larkin - C - Michigan(Big10) - 15th 2014
3 (42 overall) Xavier Ouellet - D - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 48th 2011
4 (49th overall) Ryan Sproul - D - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 55th 2011
5 (50th overall) Teemu Pulkkinen - RW - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 111th 2010
6 (71st overall) Petr Mrazek - G - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 141st 2010
7 Mattias Backman - D - Linkoping(SWE) - 146th 2011
8 Tyler Bertuzzi - LW - Guelph(OHL) - 58th 2013
9 Axel Holmstrom - C - Skelleftea(SWE) - 196th 2014
10 Alexey Marchenko - D - Grand Rapids(AHL) - 205th 2011

No kids under 21 in the NHL...best +/-, doing the best with the least...shit never changes!

[Neuqua]

Blackhawks please :)

[MikeVic]

Thanks for doing this!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Chicago

Prospect Rank 25
Prospect grade C+
+/- 21st at -5 (ADR20/rank 25)

21 & Under NHLers none

1 (9th overall) Teuvo Teravainen - C - Rockford(AHL) - 18th 2012
2 (72 overall) - Ryan Hartman - RW - Rockford(AHL) - 30th 2013
3 Nick Schmaltz - C - N Dakota(NCHC) - 20th 2014
4 Trevor van Riemsdyk - D - Chicago(NHL) - UFA 2014
5 Gustav Forsling - D - Linkoping(SWE) - Trade w/ VAN
6 Phillip Danault - C - Rockford(AHL) - 26th 2011
7 Mark McNeill - C - Rockford(AHL) - 18th 2011
8 Joakim Nordstrom - C - Rockford(AHL) - 90th 2010
9 Klas Dahlback - D - Rockford(AHL) - 79th 2011
10 Garret Ross - LW - Rockford(AHL) - 139th 2012

[Suburban Rhythm]

Thanks for doing this!


:thumbsup:

[claphamsa]

AVS!

[Dr. Sak]

Flyers please

[Suburban Rhythm]

Colorado

Prospect Rank 28
Prospect grade C-
+/- 29th at -16 (ADR 12/ rank 28)

21 & Under NHLers MacKinnon

1 (54th overall) Chris Bigras - D - Owen Sound(OHL) - 32nd 2013
2 Calvin Pickard - G - Lake Erie(AHL) - 49th 2010
3 Conner Bleackley - Red Deer(WHL) - C - 23rd 2014
4 Borna Rendulic - RW - Lake Erie(AHL) - UFA 2014
5 Dennis Everberg - RW - Lake Erie(AHL) - UFA 2014
6 Stefan Elliott - D - Lake Erie(AHL) - 49th 2009
7 Joey Hishon - C - Lake Erie(AHL) - 28th 2010
8 Duncan Siemens - D - Lake Erie - 11th 2011
9 Spencer Martin - G - Mississauga(OHL) - 63rd 2013
10 Will Butcher - D - Denver(NCHC) - 123rd 2013

[Suburban Rhythm]

Philadelphia

Prospect Rank 23
Prospect grade C+
+/- 28th at -15 (ADR 8/ rank 23)

21 & Under NHLers Laughton

1 (31st overall) Sam Morin - D - Rimouski(QMJHL) - 11th 2013
2 (36th overall) Travis Sanheim - D - Calgary(WHL) - 17th 2014
3 (59th overall) Shayne Gostisbehere - D - 78th 2012
4 Robert Hagg - D - Lehigh Valley(AHL) - 41st 2013
5 Anthony Stolarz - G - Lehigh Valley(AHL) - 45th 2012
6 Taylor Leier - LW - Lehigh Valley(AHL) - 117th 2012
7 Mark Alt - D - Lehigh Valley(AHL) - Trade w/ CAR 2013
8 Nicolas Aube-Kubel - C - Val d'Or(QMJHL) - 48th 2014
9 Oskar Lindblom - LW - Byrnas(SWE) - 138th 2014
10 Mark Friedman - D - Bowling Green(WCHA) - 86th 2014

[Logan]

Rangers please. Will miss the Duke.

[The Jackal]

Sanheim is rising like crazy. Flyers will get to add a high pick to their cupboard, at least.

[Fidatelo]

Jets lost a stomach-punch game to the 'Hawks last night. I can't believe how crazy exciting these games down the stretch have been. Go Jets Go!

[Logan]

Good game between the Jets and Rangers thought. My apologies Fidatelo but I think your boy Byfuglien deserves to sit for a few games for that cross check to the back of JT Miller's neck. No injury though so spin the wheel...

Watch Eric's Vine "Dustin Byfuglien tries to decapitate JT Miller. #NYR #Jets #NHL" (https://vine.co/v/OLPirE2zx5Y)

[claphamsa]

for sure!

[Fidatelo]

If Buff has to sit that's fine, I think that game killed the Jets playoff chances anyways. They really, really needed at least a point. With 5 games left I think they now need to go 4-1 to get in, or at worst 3-1-1. Given the teams they are up against that will be an extremely tough road, and I don't think it's very likely.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Sanheim is rising like crazy. Flyers will get to add a high pick to their cupboard, at least.

Caught on the radio before Wednesday game vs Penguins, Flyers have 7 of the top 101 picks in upcoming draft

[The Jackal]

Caught on the radio before Wednesday game vs Penguins, Flyers have 7 of the top 101 picks in upcoming draft

Yeah, Hextall seems committed to building from within, which is refreshing. Just hopefully they don't miss Giroux/Voracek's prime window while rebuilding.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Good game between the Jets and Rangers thought. My apologies Fidatelo but I think your boy Byfuglien deserves to sit for a few games for that cross check to the back of JT Miller's neck. No injury though so spin the wheel...

Watch Eric's Vine "Dustin Byfuglien tries to decapitate JT Miller. #NYR #Jets #NHL" (https://vine.co/v/OLPirE2zx5Y)

Not that Buff didn't earn his suspension, and all coaches are hypocrites, but giggled watching Vigneault say that's the worse he's seen. He must not have been paying attention in the playoffs last year, Staal on Crosby, about 3 times in one shift ;)

[Suburban Rhythm]

NY Rangers

Prospect Rank 24
Prospect grade C+
+/- 9th at +6 (ADR 30/ rank 24)

21 & Under NHLers Miller

1 (17th overall) Anthony Duclair - LW - Quebec(QMJHL) - 80th 2013
2 (63 overall) Pavel Buchnevich - LW - Severstal(KHL) - 75th 2013
3 Brady Skjei - D - U of Minnesota(Big10) - 28th 2012
4 Brandon Halverson - G - SS Marie(OHL) - 59th 2014
5 Igot Shesterkin - G - St. Petersburg(RUS) - 118th 2014
6 Oscar Lindberg - C - Hartford(AHL) - Trade w/ ARI 2011
7 Ryan Haggerty - RW - Hartford(AHL) - UFA 2014
8 Mackenzie Skapski - G - Hartford(AHL) - 170th 2013
9 Ryan Graves - D -Quebec(QMJHL) - 110th 2013
10 Conor Allen - D - Hartford(AHL) - UFA 2013

[The Jackal]

Losing Duclair probably drops them pretty close to the bottom of the league.. but they do have a strong contention window at the moment.

[henry296]

Not that Buff didn't earn his suspension, and all coaches are hypocrites, but giggled watching Vigneault say that's the worse he's seen. He must not have been paying attention in the playoffs last year, Staal on Crosby, about 3 times in one shift ;)

Especially since Staal received no punishment at all.

[Logan]

President's Trophy for the Rangers.

Crazy endings impacting playoff races...Pens blow a late lead to Ottawa who wins in OT. Isles pull the goalie down 2, tie it up, only need a point to clinch a playoff spot...and Halak gives up an awful goal with 2 seconds left. Kings lose to Edmonton and can get knocked out with a loss to Calgary.

[Fidatelo]

The Kings are just making it more dramatic. I won't count them out until the corpse is burned and the ashes are scattered.

[The Jackal]

Man, I'm going to be so amused if the Penguins miss the playoffs after all the taunting they directed towards the Flyers about missing the playoffs even though they beat them 4-1 twice in the last week.

I doubt it happens, but I'm sure Philly would be happy to lose to the Sens on Saturday to help even more.

[Grover]

Man, I'm going to be so amused if the Penguins miss the playoffs after all the taunting they directed towards the Flyers about missing the playoffs even though they beat them 4-1 twice in the last week.

I doubt it happens, but I'm sure Philly would be happy to lose to the Sens on Saturday to help even more.

I'm cool with it.

[bhlloy]

The Kings are just making it more dramatic. I won't count them out until the corpse is burned and the ashes are scattered.

QFT. I'm convinced they are just seeing how close they can cut it and still win a Stanley Cup just because they are bored. Nobody loses to an unmotivated Oilers team otherwise.

[Chief Rum]

The Kings are just making it more dramatic. I won't count them out until the corpse is burned and the ashes are scattered.

Yeah, no kidding. They are just setting it up to end up in the 8 spot and so they would face the Ducks in Round One and somehow continue the Boudreau playoff curse.