Rookie coach to blame in late game blown lead by Oilers

   Everyone inside and outside of Edmonton is blaming the goaltending. But maybe just maybe they should be looking at the man behind the bench, making the decisions for the struggling Edmonton Oilers. Now now….. I’m not saying fire Dallas Eakins, but at the same time what the hell was he thinking in the final minute. I flat out don’t buy into the philosophy that your best players should kill penalties, but for certain not in a one goal lead with one minute left. The rookie coach decides to put out his number one line out; Hall, Hemsky and Nugent-Hopkins; on top of that he has rookie blueliner Anton Belov and Jeff Petry. That selection didn’t work out that well. In 8 seconds; that’s the amount of offensive zone time the Leafs had; the Oilers turned it over THREE times; (Belov, Hemsky, Hall.) Before of all this, goaltender Devon Dubynk decided to leave the puck for Hemsky instead of holding it for a faceoff (which one can’t blame his for).

No Gordon or Ference?

   Your new captain, and prized blueline acquisition is not good enough to defend a last minute lead? Guess not, but maybe next time Eakins will have out Andrew Ference. The most comical thing is this; Nuggent-Hoppkins won 47% of his faceoffs (takes the draw); compare that number to Boyd Gordon’s 67% (tonight) and over 62% for the season. That to me; for a team that is no desperate for a win; is unforgivable, plain and simple.

Whose to blame for Parros injury; bad goals, two new stud de-man

Habs vs Leafs

Montreal was the better team in the first period…. Especially the kid line; Gallagher, Eller & Galchenyuk; hands down the best top line in night one of the NHL. Lars Eller could have a breakout season.

James Reimer despite struggling in period one; was the better of the two goalies. Price at times looked lost; exactly the same way he looked last year. Reimer was ok at times; but was great late in the came to close the door on the Habs.

Now lets talk about; with what I’m sure everyone already is. The second fight between George Parros and Colton Orr; it’s more than knowledge that two years ago Orr was Ko’d by Parros. We all know it wasn’t Orr but the ice that Ko’d Parros. My bone to pick is this; who’s really to blame for the second fight occurring? That’s right PK Subban. All of a sudden with Parros in town; Subban thinks he’s the NHL’s toughest defender. Orr was going for the puck; and it was a quick whistle; but Subban even when the refs were in the middle of them; kept going at Orr. I feel sorry for Parros; cause night in night out; he  

Hawks vs Capitals

Despite winning 6-4; one obvious that came out of this game is the Hawks MUST be more aggressive on the penalty kill; Caps went 3-5 on the PP; and was dominate at it.

Braden Holtby was wonderful at times; but then he looked like a below average goalie at times as well; the game winner was horrible goal to let in.

Both teams may not be at the top of the league in fighting majors at year end; but they’ve both increased their team size this year; allot of solid, clean body contact in this game.

Oilers vs Jets

I’m not going to sugar coat it. Both of these teams, most little if no improvement on their blueline and it showed last night.

Oilers first  

No disrespect to Andrew Ference; I think he’s a great captain for a young Oilers teams. But ladies and gentleman he was at times a #6 de-man for the Bruins; and on any other team is maybe just maybe a #3; but should be a #4 de-man.

I can’t say I’ve sat down and watched Justin Schutlz very closily; but did for this game. All I can say is one dimensional. He maybe a 40-50 point blueliner, but he is clueless and I mean clueless in his own end; on the 5-4 goal for Winnipeg, I counted it, in a 10 second shift decides not to get down and block a shot; sits there watching 3 defenders within 3 feet of him without even attempting to clear one of them..

No matter what Mark Lee or Kelly Hrudey wants to think; David Perron is not a gritty forward. The former St. Louis Blue might be pesky; but to claim he is what the Oilers need for grit in their top six? If that is their thinking; that is while they’ll be a non-playoff team yet again

Jets

Truba looks like a stud; but to me, if Claude Noel knows what he’s doing; he’ll breakup Byfuglien and Enstrom and put one with Truba and the other with Boogasian. Having to puck moving offensive defenseman as one pairing, can and will lead to disaster.  Paul Postma had a rough night; showing why he’s a below average defenseman. The Jets must improve their blueline; with another stay at home reguard.

Michael Frolik to me was one of the best off season moves a team can make. A premium third liner; who is one of the best penalty killers and can be a 20 goal scorer, if the team stays healthy.

Goaltending and own zone coverage

Two of the main reasons neither the Jets nor Oilers will make the playoffs is their own zone coverage. At times it’s a fire drill gone badly; everyone converging to the front of the net not taking anyone out. The other reason is goaltending. Both Dubynk and Pavelic are not and will never become top flight goaltenders. Allot of bad goals were allowed in all 3 games; but both Dubynk and Pavelic let in horrendous goals, both at times looked like the second coming of Vesa Toskala.

Two new throwback blue-liners

It’s been many years since we’ve seen two nasty, burly defenseman come along; but it’s a refreshing change. Both Jacob Truba & Jarrett Tinordi; are throw backs to what we seen allot of in the 90’s and into the early 2000s. Truba reminds me of Scott Stevens, why Jarrett reminds me of his father Mark Tinordi. While we have some bruising blue liners, these two will be front and center for the next decade.

Stunning contracts (Part two)

   Some people were stunned when Mike Komisarek signed a one-year contract on the first day of free agency. The one thing most people don`t know, and I just found out, is he has an ironclad no movement clause. So cannot be sent to the minor league, which means he`s a Carolina Hurricane all year.

   Despite playing the entire season in the AHL…. The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenseman Paul Ranger, to a one-year, 1 million dollar contract…. You`re asking yourself who cares, two things. One it`s a one-way deal, secondly he`s got a full no movement clause. When it`s all said and done, he`s going nowhere anytime soon.

   I originally thought it was a typo when it came up on the TV screen, Joey Crabb signing with the Florida Panthers, two years both of which are guaranteed (one-way contract). Obviously either coach Kevin Dineen or GM Dale Taloon like Crabb enough to make a multiyear commitment.

   Former Flyer Harry Zolniercyzk shockingly got a one year guaranteed contract from the Pittsburgh Penguins. He`s obviously impressed someone within the organization, but again I would have thought Zolniercyzk was destined for a minor league career.

Hard work pays off.... five surprising one-way contracts (Part One)

    Anthony Peluso was claimed early last year on waivers by the Winnipeg Jets, and at time the rookie played more than a regular shift on the third line. In a bit of a shocker, the kid was rewarded with a two year, one –way contract with an average cap hit of $562,500. Might not sound like allot of money, but he`s all but 100% locked in a spot for next year’s team. Obviously he proved enough in his five games with Winnipeg (2 assists).¸

   The Jets for the second time in the off-season surprised some, by giving defenseman Paul Postma a two-year one-way deal. The sophomore played in 34 games this season scoring four times with five assists. Winnipeg by no means were forced into giving the two contracts out being both were restricted free agents; they must see something in both to give them guaranteed deals.

   Again a bit of a stunner to see the Boston Bruins give youthful forward Jordan Caron a one-way deal worth $640,000; he`s been up and down from the minors for three seasons. He better hope he has a good training camp, or the Bruins would have waive him and bury him in the minors all year.

   The Bruins also signed a new backup goalie; Chad Johnson earned himself a one year, one way contract. Johnson should have become the backup last year in Phoenix, outplaying then backup Jason Laberbera every chance he had. Very shrewd signing, the American netminder should be able to start 15-20 times next season.

    Nashville has found a cheaper replacement for Jordin Tootoo. Like Peluso, before the season started Nashville claimed Rich Clune on waivers from LA. But unlike Peluso, Clune played a regular role with the Preds, playing in all but one game last year. Two years, with a cap hit of $850,000, what a job by Clune`s agent, it would have been hard to say no for much less, but they got the job done.

Four bad re-signings in the off-season; second line centers worth 4.7 million?

   After 52 career NHL games, the Ottawa Senators rewarded defenseman Patrick Wiercioch with a three year, $6 million contract. When I seen this I asked myself out loud what are they doing?  Is he on the verge of a breakout year and you must sign in to a longer term deal. No way shape or form; his he destined to be a top four defenseman? Last time I checked he was fighting with Andre Beniot for the six-seventh spot on the blueline last year.

Second line centers worth 4.7 million a year?

   No disrespect intended, but are we getting to a point in the NHL where a second line center at best is worth 4.7 million or more a year?

   Bryan Little has inked a five year contract worth 4.7 million per year. In his seven year career, the former 100 point OHLer, has a career high 31 goals in 2008-09, the same year he had a career best 51 points. Those numbers are ok if you`re a number two centerman, but far from a number one centerman. The contract is nearly impossible to move, if they wish to do so.

   I butchered Sam Gagner is a previous blog http://corbyshockeycentral.blogspot.ca/2013/07/gagner-wanting-more-than-hes-worth-and.html; after he was asking for 5.5 million is salary arbitration. The very next day the Oilers inked him to a 3 year, 14.4 million contract, worth 4.8 million over three years. Because of the top end talent in Edmonton, Gagner has no chance of becoming their number one centerman. Has failed every year to score 20 or more goals, and has never gotten more 47 points in one season. Like president of the Edmonton Oilers Kevin Lowe, current general manager Craig Mactavish is well on his way to becoming a horrible general manager.  After failing to trade Gagner for the past year they reward with a stupid contract, one that he cannot live up to.

Low budget team overpay

    Bottom six forward Nick Spalding has avoided salary arbitration with the Nashville Predators, signing a one year, 1.5 million dollar contract. In 2011-12 he scored a career high 10 goals and 22 points. Spalding might be able to score 12-15 goals, but will never be an effective top six forward. Nashville is team that must watch every dollar they spend, kind of surprising but not shocking.

Mike Gillis doing what he does best

   It`s not the first time or the last time…. But is Vancouver Canucks general manager Mike Gillis is again lying through his teeth.

   ``At the end of the day we had to make a choice and we made the choice to go to Roberto,`` Gillis claims. What he forgot to mention is that after a one year search high and low, nobody and we mean nobody would go near Luongo, even if the Canucks had to pay them to.

   Take last year at the trade deadline, 30 minutes before the deadline, Gillis called the Toronto Maple Leafs offered up Luongo for goalie Ben Schrivens, a mid and late round draft pick. That proposal was quickly shut down. Not even 15 minutes later the offer to the Leafs was Schrivens and two late round picks, again shut down.

   Gillis and his pathological lying will eventually make Luongo say FU to him and the Canucks… Why not be truthful and say you had no choice, instead he did the opposite. Don`t believe me, read the below compelling blog for the timelines of Gillis`s ways.

http://corbyshockeycentral.blogspot.ca/2013/01/is-gillis-all-talk-or-will-luongo.html

Gagner wanting more than he's worth and then some

 Has one night gotten to his head? On February 2, 2012, Edmonton Oilers centerman Sam Gagner had one of those nights only legends would dream of. Four & four assists in an 8-4 win over the Chicago Blackhawks; the only problem those nights are too far and few between. Why are bringing this up you ask? Gagner, your typical 2^nd line center, but one whom will never be a number one center; is seeking 5.5 million and is due to go to salary arbitration on Monday.

   I almost fell out of my chair when I seen the number of 5.5. Two instant thought came to my head; 1> there is no harm in swinging for the fences. 2> this is Gagner’s way of saying to the Oilers he wants out and now. There are three main reasons why Gagner will never get his 5.5 million, 1> He’s never scored 20 goals in his six year career. 2> He’s never gotten more than 50 points within season. 3> unless the Oilers have two or more injuries to the young core, he will never be a top line forward in Edmonton.

   The one comparable in the NHL would be Tyler Bozak; whom signed earlier in the off season, five years with an average of 4.2 million per year. One can go as far saying Bozak is more of a complete two way centerman.

   The only way Gagner gets his money, is if the arbitrator doesn’t know hockey. I would almost bet the Oilers would walk if he’s rewarded more than 4.5 million a year.

Which NHL team could lose their first overall pick?

   Could a former first overall pick in the NHL cost his former team; the same first overall pick? It certainly is not out of the question; who are we referring to? None other than Ilya Kovalchuk & the New Jersey Devils.

   Three years ago when Devils signed the Russian forward to a 15 year contract; the NHL ruled it to be a circumvention of the salary cap. Penalizing the Devils by removing a 1rst & 3^rd round pick. For some weird reason the Devils in the first three years didn't want to give back the first rounder; forcing them to go without their first rounder next year.

   Is it far fetched to say they’ll be one of the worst teams next year? Absolutely Not. They were the third worst team in regards to goal scoring with an average of 2.29 goals per game (also 21^st ranked PP); this before losing Kovalchuk & power forward David Clarkson. Legendary goalie Martin Brodeur is down by those two leaving. It's the two guys I spend a lot of time with on and off the ice," Brodeur told Northjersey.com.

    Yes the Dev’s have brought in Ryane Clowe & Michael Ryder; but far from the consistency as those who left. While Travis Zajac & Adam Henrique will have somewhat of a bounce back season; it’s hard to see 38-year-old Patrick Elias maintaining a 70 point pace (next year). If not the first overall pick; it could easily be a top five or top ten the Devils will lose.

Don’t expect Devils to be free spending

   The one positive if anything is the cash strapped Devils shed a large contract off the books. As we speak currently they have around 51.5 in salaries; with just over 10.5 million in cap space. Don’t expect the Devils to acquire Ales Hemsky or Tomas Vanek; or to throw 4 million per year at Jamy Jagr and/or Damien Brunner, the ownership is no hard up for cash, even more so than the Phoenix Coyotes.

   Elias who re-signed a 3 year contract; did so thinking he’d be playing side by side with the Russian star.

"I've never seen anything like this in my 18 years," Elias told the Star-Ledger.

The real reason Kovalchuk retired.......

   For anyone who thinks Ilya Kovalchuk is really retiring; you must also think the Houston Astros will win the World Series.

The Russian superstar honored the first 3 years of his 15 year contract; shockingly the next two would see him making 11.6 million per season.

KHL season starts in one month

The timing is everything. Not many is aware but, the KHL season starts in 1 month (middle of August). During last year’s lockout Kovalchuk was quoted as saying "We are all happy here [in the KHL]," he reportedly told Russian website Sportbox.ru in October 2012. “Basically, I don’t rule out staying in Russia in the case of a reduction of our salaries in the NHL.” This is what makes today’s new as not to surprising.

Good news and bad news for New Jersey

You likely have a few thousand New Jersey Devil fans burning their “17” Kovalchuk Jerseys right about now…. But when you think of it, the team is allot better off. 1> You have a team (Devils) more strapped for cash; even more so than the Phoenix Coyotes; and you just shedded 77 million over the next 10 -12 years. 2> You have the worst “team player” in NHL history long gone. 3> Most importantly you have the gotten rid of someone who didn’t want to play in New Jersey or the NHL.

The Bad news. 1> You have a big gaping whole (30-40 goals) missing from the lineup. 2> The really bad news… you don’t have your 2014 first round pick in the draft; because of the “cap circumvention” penalty for signing Kovalchuk to this contract.

One Question that Kovalchuk should be forced to answer

Why Now? Why not at the NHL entry draft; why not July 5^th (first day of free agency). Reason being so you could attempts at replacing Kovalchuk. If Lou Lamoriello was aware of this a week or two weeks ago; Devil fans should be enraged. The teams additions in Ryan Clowe and Michael Ryder; add depth but leave a front line present gap on the team. We’ll never know the answer to the question; the Devils are the most secretive team in Sports History.

Two teams, smart depth moves; Jets adding depth; Leafs cannot let Fraser walk

   Not the fan of the hockey club, but….. Kudos to the Columbus Blue Jackets, earlier today they signed Jack Skille to a one-year (two-way) contract. Anytime you can get a 26-year-old like Skille for cheap; it is a no risk, only reward type contract. If he doesn't win a spot in camp, he only takes up a roster spot and can be recalled without going through waivers. A very shrewd signing but the new management; (something you wouldn't have seen before). Speaking of the Jackets management; is it just me or should they resign Vaclav Prospal; he was only the team’s leading goal scorer. He also has had a great report on and off the ice with team star Marian Gaborik.

   Again a smart signing can be said for Pittsburgh, who inked 30-year-old veteran Andrew Ebbett to a two year (two-way) contract; for Ebbett he would earn the league minimum 550k in the NHL; but 300K in the minors. Kudos to Ebbett and his agent for not waiting a month or two for a one-way contract offer that might not come.

   I and other Leafs fans would be 100% choked if the Leafs let rugged de-man Mark Fraser walk. Rumors have Fraser going to for salary arbitration. He would not be seeking 2 million a year, but maybe 1.2 – 1.7 million per year. The team needs him, only reason being they have no other like him. A big, nasty-son of a bitch…. Dave Nonnis and his staff will soon come to their senses.

   While not being a top destination for free agents, the Winnipeg Jets are adding depth via the trade route. So far in this off season they’ve added both Devon Setoguchi and Michael Frolik in separate moved. Is Setoguchi the second coming of Jonathan Cheechoo; this season will tell us yes or no. Frolik is a premier penalty killer; who’s a great addition to their third line. The team has also added veteran de-man Adam Pardy . About time they add depth; going back to their Atlanta days they’ve been slammed for not having enough balance both in the NHL and AHL. 

Who is be the first free agent frenzy buyout, Alferdson full of it, Poile wins big

   If you really wanted to win a Stanley Cup would really choose Detroit over Boston? We don’t have time to go over everything; but if you at the status of the blueline…. It’s not even comparable. The Bruins hand down.  This being said…. I call BS on Daniel Alferdson; why did he not come right out and say it? He’d rather play with fellow countrymen Henrik Zetterberg, Jonathan Ericsson, Niklas Kronwall and Johan Fransen and he likes the way the Wings play the game…. And oh yes; let’s not forget he was offered way more money by Detroit, then Ottawa or Boston. If it was not about the money why not take a 2.75 million salary, instead he doubles it…. That extra 2.75 million he took; could mean not getting the extra piece at the deadline.

Who will be bought out first

   Of all the signings today, who is buy-out compliance waiting to happen? Twenty-four hours after being praised for getting something for Shawn Horcoff; Oilers general manager is wasting three million over the next three years for Boyd Gordon. If he were to match his career 9 goal output…. He’d be making $333,333 per goal. He’s not known as a big man up the middle, he doesn't address their need toughness, an average player on a horrible contract.

   Lord knows Steve Yzerman wasn't the only one throwing money at Valtteri Filpulla but come on, 5 years @ 5 million per? Coming off of his career worst 9 goals & 17 points, the Finnish centerman should give his agent a big bonus for fetching him this contract. I am not a Columbus fan, but thank god they did not get stuck with another stupid contract.

   Is Mike Ribero going to be worth 6 million when he will be 37 years old? I think not, and I can say that with some conviction.

Quite but effective

    Nashville has never been a top destination for many free-agents in years past; but give David Poile (Nashville GM) some credit they inked four free agent forwards addressing every need they had. It’s not far-fetched to say Victor Stalberg & Matt Cullen are top six forwards, they are  not world beaters, but for a total of 6.5 million (between the two of them), they score you between 15-20 goals each, something the team lacked last year. The other additions are what impress me the most, both Eric Nystrom & Matt Hendricks bring veteran leadership, penalty killing and toughness, something they desperately lacked since Jordan Tootoo went to Detroit. Can you imagine a 3^rd line of Nystrom, Hendricks and Paul Gaustad; holy black and blue, I would have nightmares if I were a smaller, less than tough team. 

New look Stars move two moves

   Knowing it’s not a preferable destination by most big name free agents, the Dallas Stars were hard at work one day before free agency, making two separate deals. The two moves now give the Stars something they haven’t had in years, an offensive one-two punch in regards to the top two lines.

    New GM Jim Nill, acquired former 2^nd overall pick Tyler Seguin, and Rich Peverly from Boston for top line forward Loui Eriksson and prospects Reilly Smith, Matt Fraser & Joe Morrow.  Before the deal had been completed, it was rumored to be Seguin for Eriksson which I thought was fair. (Seguin) obviously have more upside, but with Peverly being included I think it swings in favor for Dallas. Give Nill credit; in two weeks on the job, he had the balls to make a brave move unlike his predecessor Joe Nieuwendyk. Look for Seguin to be lineup up with top prospect (22 year old) Alex Chiasson (6 goals in only 7 regular season games) this combination could be deadly over the next decade.

   The same day, Nill picked up veteran centerman Sean Horcoff for seldom used de-man Philip Larsen, & a 7^th rounder. Shockingly a good deal for both teams, Edmonton sheds a bad contract (5.5 cap hit) but, Dallas only pays Horcoff (4 million, 3 million) over the next few years. Is the former captain a 3^rd liner? Absolutely and he knows it, but a reasonable salary @ 3.5 million.  

   The only downside for the Stars is they had to move what little depth they had in their farm system. It’s a stretch to say Fraser and Smith will be prominent top six forwards; but at the same time they were speedy, somewhat skilled forwards early in their careers. Another key point everyone must know, the Stars don’t has four-five guys in the AHL, waiting for the call up; that are NHL quality players.

   With a veteran like Eric Nystrom moving onto free-agency, the Stars need to address their bottom six forwards, they need to sign in-expensive players who could step in if need be. If I were Jim Nill, I’d look at Nathan Gerbe, Boyd Gordon and/or Brad Richarson. All of which could be had for less than 1.2 million p/y.

Jets fail again; what needs to change?

by Brandt Corbin

    Where did things go so wrong? Why are the Winnipeg Jets again booking their tee times, missing out on the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs.

    Make absolutely no mistake; Tuesday night’s contest against the Washington Capitals was the biggest game in Atlanta/Winnipeg franchise history. Anyone saying differently is fooling themselves. You win in regulation and you’re 1 point up the Caps; but they’d have one game in hand. You lose in regulation and you’re all but done. The Jets needed to win Thursday, but did not.

   Quite honestly and bluntly they failed and did so miserably. How in an absolute must win game do you get outshot 41-27; proceed to be outshot 13-7 (in the first period) when being down in minute three. Every single player (with the exception of Ladd, Antropov and Wheeler) was -1 or worse.

Why have the Jets failed again?

     The reasons why the team has yet again failed? In my opinion is a long long laundry list.

1     1>     Ondrej Pavelic

     I’ve always questioned whether Pavelic has been a true number one netminder. Some night’s he looks like the second coming of Henrik Lunquist; yet the next he’ll look as disinterested as Ilya Bryzgalov. The 5^th year netminder is Ranked 37^th in the NHL with a 2.77 g.a.a; & 36^th with a .906 %. Those numbers itself are a recipe for disaster; but when goal challenged like the Jets can be, you’ve got no chance. Some will say I’m being too harsh; but the fact is he has allowed the most goals this year (119). Unreal to think, his numbers are better than last year’s 2.91 G.A.A. He had 4 years remaining, with 3.9 million owed each year. It’s either time to buy him out; or get a very capable backup; one capable of playing 30-35 games.

2    2>     Absolutely depth to be found

    What type of depth do the Jets have? In the 5-3 loss to Washington; Eric Tangradi, Mark Santorelli, James Wright played no less than 12 minutes; Anti Miettinen played over 6 minutes. Each one of those is waiver pickups or acquired for 7^th rounders; in a combined 102 games this year, those four have a combined 5 goals and 9 assists. Can you imagine getting five goals in 47 games from your third line?

     This lack of depth has been an issue since the days of the Atlanta Thrashers; but is one of the main reasons they have no chance to compete night in night out. The days of Chris Thornbur n & Jim Slater could  be over; after very sub-par years. The club needs to address this with free agency; but they need to get deeper in the minor league system as well. Use Aaron Gagnon; originally signed for the AHL; but in 8 games this year has scored 3 times; inexpensive but gets the job done. They need to find those who will only cost 1.5 -2 million type players or less.

3    3>      Get Creative & Bold

T        The Jets cannot lure free agents without over spending, so they need to get creative and make some bold moves. Don’t believe me? How did Olli Jokinen work out this year? In 45 games he has 7 goals & 7 assists while going -19 (-8 being the next worst). Do you think they over spent a little bit? Nothing like one more year at 4.5 million (ouch). Alexei Ponikarvsky lasted all but 12 games; yet another free agent they had to overpay.

         With Jacob Trouba on the horizon; it might be time for the Jets to move all-star defenseman Dustin Byfuglien and/or Evander Kane.  Is it time they make a ballsy move like Columbus made by trading Rick Nash. This team needs to change something within the core; it’ obvious Kane would like a change of scenery, and we’ve all heard the trade rumours about Big Buff. Would the Flyers move the Schenn brothers & Sean Courtier for Kane and Byfuglien? Keeping everything status quo will not get the Jets any further.

4    4>     Nobody knocking on the door

    Aside Truba and top prospect Mark Scheifele, the Jets don’t have prospects ready to beat the door down to make an impact. That problem makes the off-season more important; because if not addressed; the teams will be waiver wire bottom feeders; picking up the scrap heaps from other teams.

5   5>     Changes need to be made?

    Despite not making an impact on this year’s roster; it would be quite stunning to see a change in the front office. Kevin Cheveldayoff will be going into his third season as general manager for the Jets; but just like every other year, questions will remain can this core get the job done. Two core players Byfuglien & Kane need to grow up and become more mature; both on and off the ice. Both can be game changers, but they can go weeks at a time without making an impact. Kane is the most likely to be moved; because of his off ice issues with the media and mixed signals of whether he wants to stay or leave town.

    Head coach Claude Noel’s safety is not as guaranteed. Have the players had enough of Noel over the last two years. The reason why I’m concerned over his job security is the teams not showing up and the biggest 5-6 games of the year. Cheveldayof should be more concerned over the big money players not coming through when needed most.

    Five to six veterans have their contracts expiring, they will be saving 14.35 million; but half of that salary will be used to resign Bryan Little & Blake Wheeler. The unfortunate thing is those two are better than average second liners, but should not be considered first line forwards.

What would I do?

    If I were the general manager; I’d be open minded when it comes to moving almost any and every player. My untouchables would be captain Andrew Ladd, Wheeler, Scheifele, Trouba and Zach Redmond. Staying status quo might get the team into one of the botton playoff spots, but certainly not considered a contender in any way.  

    Too close; can one imagine on how bad this team would be if the Chicago Blackhawks didn’t have to slash salary after winning the Stanley Cup? No Byfuglien or Ladd, Holy Toldedo….. one cannot blame Atlanta for not supporting the Thrashers.

    Also keep in mind, there is no more playing in the South East, you've got to deal with Chicago, St.Louis six times a year going forward, no more cake walk going forward.

Five difference makers to watch; first rounders or no deal

The price tag on NHL trade deadline day always are higher. Remember last year Nashville Predators coughed up a 1rst rounder for centerman Paul Gaustad. That didn’t work out as planned; after they were ousted in the second round of the playoffs. Further more Gaustad scored his 2nd goal (into an empty net) last night.

I believe there are five players that are available but and only but for a specific price and you got it right only for a first rounder.

Steve Ott is not a rental, as he has one year left on his contract. The former 20 goal scorer is an absolute nasty piece of business. I would humbly suggest Ott best resembles former Washington Capital great Dale Hunter. He’s highly valuable to Buffalo; he’s their top penalty killer; on the 2nd power play unit and at 2.95 million a year 100% highly affordable.

David Clarkson could the 2nd choice for some over Steve Ott; only because he is a rental; a UFA starting July 5. Is he a one time 30 goal scorer; highly unlikely that he is one time wonder. Unlike Ott; Clarkson can easily be a top six forward; especially as a front line presence on the powerplay.

Stephane Robidas is like Ott; he is not a rental; one year remaining at 3.3 million next season. He is the best available stay at home defenseman. Teams like Toronto are kicking the tires with Dallas; sending multiple scouts to every game this past week. Will only be had for a first rounder; or a Matt Frattin and a 3rd rounder.

Mark Streit is a different beast. Unlike the Dallas Stars the New York Islanders are in the playoffs as we speak. For the Islanders to move their captain they will need and them some to blow their socks off. We’re talking about an early to mid round 1rst rounder; I would suggest if the Columbus Blue Jackets offer up the New York Rangers first rounder it could be enough. If so; look for the Islanders to turn around and trade off their 2nd & 3rd rounder to make up for the loss of Streit. He’s not a top line D-man; but will improve any powerplay; 47 + points; 4 years in a row.

Jason Pominville is the unlikeliest of the five to be traded. Can you say a high price tag? Again like two others; he is not a rental. The price tag could be a 1rst rounder & an A level prospect; or a 1rst rounder + (2) B level prospects. It all depends on how much the Sabres insist on changing their core group.

Sabres fire sale has begun

    Losing back to back games this past weekend at home against Boston & Washington all but confirmed the Buffalo Sabres are in 100% sell off mode. The trade of Robyn Regehr earlier today all but confirmed that. The former Flame defenseman was traded Monday afternoon to the defending Cup Champions LA Kings for (2) second round draft picks. The move for the Kings were a required after the teams injuries to rugged blueliners Matt Greene & Wille Mitchell.

    The big spending Sabres have asked veteran Jason Pominville to submit a list of eight teams he would NOT be traded to. Safe to assume Columbus, Islanders, Coyotes, Stars, Panthers & Flames are on that list for sure. And it would take a massive package from the Bruins, Leafs or Senators for Sabres to trade within the division.

    Look for John Scott, Nathan Gerbe, Drew Stafford, Ville Leino, Jochen Hecht & Adam Pardy all to be available. Scott, Hecht, Pardy could all be had for 5th rounders or less; Leino & Gerbe could be had a for B level prospect. Stafford could be had for a late 2nd or early 3rd rounder.

    Might a team like Toronto cough up a 1rst rounder for pesky forward Steve Ott? Because the PEI forward has one year left on his contract it is not out the question.

    My hunch says the following; with the exception of Ott & first line center Cody Hodgson, the same “core group” has been intact for a long time. With little or no success it could be time to make major changes; so much so Ryan Miller & Tyler Myers could be had for the right price.

Stars to become sellers

Stars will be sellers

    After managing 15 shots @ home Sunday against the LA Kings, the Dallas Stars came back 24 hours later and got spanked 4-0 by the Anaheim Ducks. Getting 0 points over the past 48 hours, likely indicates the Stars will become a seller on Wednesday’s NHL trade deadline. Unless a miracle can be worked (with an extension) look for veterans Derek Roy, Eric Nystrom & Jaromoir Jagr to be traded. It’s widely reported the Toronto Maple Leafs are targeting defenseman Stephane Robidas; because he had one more year left the cost is high, likely a first rounder or a B level prospect & a 2nd rounder.  

Canucks need depth; Av's third line impresses

    Going into Thursday`s matchup between Vancouver & Colorado, one would have assumed you`d see two teams heading in the opposite direction. For the most part this is the case; but being at the game live and in person last night; don`t let the 4-1 Canuck win deceive you. For two thirds of the game, it was the Avalanche`s game to win. Two players were mainly responsible for the score, and they were each teams goaltenders. Vancouver`s Cory Schnieder was the games best player bare none. He didn't`t steal the game; but had to make 5-8 grade a chances; Sergei Varlamov (Av`s goalie) was below average; the game winning goal by Henrik Sedin was a shot on the ice; an ECHL goalie should have stopped this shot.

Canucks unimpressive

    Aside from the Sedin line which were jaw dropping at times; the Canucks had no other forward that looked interested. I was somewhat impressed with Canuck tough guy Tom Sesitito; good speed, confident with the puck unlike most enforcers; but physically he was not existent compared to Avalanche enforcer Patrick Bordeleau who threw 3-4 thunderous hits. One thing was painfully obvious is you`re a Canuck fan, Andrew Gordon and Steve Pinizotto are in no way NHLers. Same thing can be said for Andrew Ebbett; I know they are AHL callups; but and this is a BIG but.... this tells me the Canucks do NOT have the depth in their system like other teams do. Granted the Avalanche had just as many players if not more than Vancouver has that should be buried the AHL; but the Av`s are the 29th ranked NHL team & Vancouver wants to think of themselves as a contender.

Buyers and Sellers

    Because of their places in the standings, one would assume the Canucks are buyers and the Av`s are sellers. Vancouver will likely be shopping for a top six forward rental; but minimum they need one if not two forwards (for depth purposes); the kind of guy that would cost you a 3rd to 6th rounder. I told by buddy last night; the Canucks need to get another Max Lapierre (who was picked up for a 5th rounder) or a Jarko Ruttu (4th rounder) in years past. Players that are available that would not cost an arm or a leg; Jerrod Smithson, Jochen Hecht, Ruslan Fedotenko. I`d suggest the Canucks could easily acquire Buffalo`s Nathan Gerbe for a 4th rounder (might require a 3rd). Easily a third liner, could play a week or two on the 2nd line).

    Colorado one would obviously assume would be a seller. If I were a pro scout watching the game live last night; I`d be placing a call on the third line. Chuck Kobasew (UFA at seasons end); the former Flame, Bruin & Wild forward is not a second liner anymore (not a chance); but have become more grittier later in his career. Cody Mcleod (2 years left at 1.15 million) very surprised by his hockey smarts. I always thought of his as a fourth liner; but watching him live; he does the little things very well; he reminds me of a Chris Neil. I`d suggest he`d cost a team a third rounder; or a B level prospect + a 4th or 5th rounder. The third member of the third line was John Mitchell; again like Kobasew or Mcleod; he`s not flashy but gets the job done.  Anyone that acquires these three would be doing themselves a favour; on most contending teams; these three would to take a fourth line role.

    Other Av`s who could be moved; veteran Milan Hedjuk was not overly noticeable; I could see him being acquired for a third liner (if he waives his no trade clause). Ryan O`Byrne was not impressive at all; looks out of shape and out of place. For Shane O`Brien to be sitting out instead of O`Byrne tells you the state of their defense. The one Blueliner I`d love from the Avalanche is Greg Zanon; (one more year at 2.25 million). I`d humbly suggest the asking price being minimum a 2nd rounder. If I were Colorado I`d need a Douglas Murray (two 2nd rounders) package back; if he were to be moved.

Penguins top Bruins again; what next for Boston?

    How nuts is this week going to be? Pittsburgh gets Douglas Murray, Brendan Morrow and Jarome Iginla all is separate transactions, all within 1 week? They must be done now? What more could they do? They must make a roster move or two to accommodate the moves made this week. That would include them having to waive or trade Dustin Jeffrey, I also suspect they might move Tyler Kennedy and get back some draft picks they’ve lost.

    Then we get to the Boston Bruins. What might they do? Two facts remain and are the reason why they didn’t get Iginla like it had been widely reported. First things first; they were not willing to throw in the first rounder (they were going to include a conditional pick if he had re-signed.) Second thing, the Flames were not obviously thrilled with the upside of Matt Bartkowski (projected 5-6 de-man) & highly touted prospect Alexander Khokhlachev (projected 2nd line center). But again the guaranteed first rounder by the Penguins sealed the deal without question.

What can the Bruins do to go head to head with the Pens?

    Despite not being there biggest fans, the Penguins are clearly a step above anyone else in the East if not the NHL. If you think the Bruins are going to sit back and do nothing you’re 100% fooling yourself. The reports earlier in the evening of Milan Lucic to Edmonton was laughable at best. Ryan Whitney, Magnus Paarjarvi and a 2013 first rounder for Lucic was brewing according to some online want a bee's... The only chance in living hell this deal would ever get done, is if the Bruins were to turn around and trade the Oilers first rounder for something like Marion Gaborik or David Clarkson & Patrick Elias. The Bruins have to know realize to get a big game changer like Iginla they need to be willing with part with more than just Khokhlachev and a conditional first rounder.

    But what realistically is could the Bruins do? I say they turn there attention back to Calgary and more so on defenseman Jay Boumeester. But with one year left on his contract, Boumeester would be a hot commodity, the Bruins would need to part with top prospect Malcom Subban. I’d suggest they’d focus in on Clarkson who’s a UFA at seasons end; or Ryan Clowe from San Jose. When it’s all said and done with; they have enough of those rougher tougher 2nd-3rd line forwards. But just like Pittsburgh the Bruins would need to waive or trade 2 or 3 players to make any room on the roster (they have 16 forwards & 8 defenseman.

Flyers-Pens a prime example teams within division should play more

   Starting to watch the Battle of Pennsylvania @11:30 pst; Wednesday night.

   I wasn't even five minutes of watching the Flyers-Penguins and I ask my self why Peter Laviolette doesn't have Tom Sestito dressed against there arch rivals? I can recall two incidents last season where he should have been playing but did not. Each time the Flyers have had insufficient toughness the Penguins play like they are the second coming of the Boston Bruins; plus Brooks Orpik looks like he's the second coming of Derain Hatcher. I find it comical on how Pierre Mcguire calls Harry Zolnierczyk dirty for a so called board, he forgets to mentions seconds later how on Derek Engelland drives the Flyers head into the ice. How obvious is it to tell who Mcguire is going for. According to Mcguire.... Matt Cooke and Wayne Simmonds were almost going at it, the only problem is there were two linesman in the way (only reason why Cooke is yapping away). To prove I am not bios... is it me are is Zach Rinaldo a pu$$y...

   My last point is this about the lack of Flyers toughness tonight; the fact is Sestito has just as many goals (two) in seven games, as do Mike Knuble, Ruslan Fedotenko & Zolnierczyk combined (2 goals in 35 games combined).

    Penguins fans at the beginning of the game chanting Flyers suck; guess they forget the fact the Flyers manhandled them in six games in the 2012 playoffs. I have never seen 10 players & a goalie within 3 feet of the net; (Flyers first goal last night).

    Just got the point where Simmonds and Tanner Glass scrap.... with the lack of toughness dressed, guys like Simmonds has to scrap more than he should have to.

    This hands down has been the best game from beginning to end; back & fourth; 11 goals; playoff intensity.... This is why teams within there own division should play 6-8 times in a year. I'm sorry folks but these East vs West games are the worst to watch most of the time. There is the odd exception (Boston vs Vancouver) but 90% of the times; those games are complete duds. Do the folks in LA want to see Carolina, Florida, or even Buffalo.... no they'd rather see the Sharks, Ducks even more than what they do.

Three unlikely playoff game changers

When it come to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, it’s always the top line players who get most of the notoriety but deservedly so. But to every successful team you have to have the mockers, grinders and sometimes those who come out of nowhere. While the below players teams did not win the Cup, they did have either memorable individual performances whether it be one game or one entire series.

Matthew Barnaby

May 10, 1998; Game two between the Montreal Canadiens and the hated Buffalo Sabres. The Habs were looking for a split in Buffalo after dropping game one in overtime; but one pesky SOB named Matthew Barnaby had other thoughts. It would be his first NHL Hat rick as the Sabres rolled past the Habs 6-3. The mothers day three goal performance is one example on how a fourth line checker/enforcer made a difference in a Stanley Cup playoff game.

Steve Webb

For myself in my mind I keep going back to a 2002 first round meeting between the New York Islander and the Toronto Maple Leafs. To this day, (not because I’m a diehard Leaf fan) I must say that this series was the nastiest most hard-fought series I’ve ever seen.  While that series featured some of the scrappiest, dirtiest players from a decade ago like Darcy Tucker, Tie Domi, Shayne Corson, Gary Roberts, Eric Cairns, Dave Scathard and Jason Wiemer; the entire series took shape because of one little known fourth liner name Steve Webb.

Especially once the series got back to the Nassau Coliseum for game three, that is when Webb changed the complexion of the series. Was it his 3 shifts in game two; or knowing sooner or later he’d be a healthy scratch, no one will ever know. Webb’s ability shift in shift out to take the body, but most importantly very hard and clean, frustrated the Leafs into bad penalty after penalty. That one and only skill kept the Isles in the series, and brought the crowd alive like it’s never been.

Don’t believe me? Have a look for yourself.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ92U-yj9Ek

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7f0RTedfSQ (go to 1 min 38 secs)

John Druce

In 45 OHL playoff games, John Druce had a whopping 6 goals and 10 assists (0 goals in his last 28 games). Imagine the surprise come the 1989-90 Stanley Cup Playoffs when he came literally out of nowhere and scored 14 goals, 3 assists in 15 games. This coming from a guy that scored 16 times in 93 regular season games.

Druce outscored team leaders Dino Ciccarelli, Geoff Courtnall & Dale Hunter; so much so the next leader in goals was 8 (by Ciccarelli).

Sens still outaged, goons go unclaimed, Canucks finally to be tested

  Can one be shocked by the outrage in Ottawa this week. Already missing Jason Spezza, Peter Regin, Milan Michalek and Guillaume Latendresse due to injuries; Wednesday’s injury to Norris defenseman Erik Karlsson for 3-4 months due the Achilles surgery cut the teams hopes a playoff berth in half. When one sits back and thinks about the consequences for the team, this easily could mean them losing millions of dollars(if they do not make the playoffs).

    Senators owner Eugene Melynk had a candid conversion with the Ottawa Sun. “I’m very upset, actually more than upset, I’m outraged that in this day and age this continues. It’s something that never should have happened. This player should never be playing in this league. It’s a league for elite players,” said Melnyk. “Get him in the Central League. He can be a $60, 000 a year guy playing pickup hockey there.”

    Melynk went onto say how he wants goons out of the league. “I’m on the record when Spezza got hurt and I said one day it’s going to be somebody’s else’s superstar and sure enough within 60 days Crosby got taken out.” What I find hypocritical is how recent the Senators employed Matt Carkner and Zenon Konopka, and still employee Chris Neil.

    I for one agree with him sort of, I personally get sick of Matt Cooke and the Penguins keep saying it was an accident. It’s not the first nor last time we’ll hear this song and dance from the Penguins and Cooke.

“Goons” falling by the waste side

   This week was not a good week for one that likes the toughguy. Both the Oilers Darcy Hordichuk and Wild forward Matt Kassian went unclaimed on waivers. Hordichuk has been used sparingly this season and when he has played has been horrible. The writing was on the wall for Kassian when the Wild acquired Mike Rupp. 

One would assume Jody Shelley is due to be waived. The former Blue Jacket has played one game; but has seen as many as five players be recalled and play from the AHL farm team.

   The next tougher player to be on the way out could be the Flames visor wearing Tim Jackman. He’s been a healthy scratch this season, something he wasn’t all of last year. The main reason why he could be done sooner rather than later is continuous softness. Being down 4-0 after 1 period of play, Jackman continued to play a soft game, refusing to challenge Blues enforcer Ryan Reaves.

Canucks to be tested

    All the uproar in Vancouver these days is the return of Ryan Kesler and the team six game winning streak. The fact remains five of six wins have been versus the Northwest Division; (6-0-1 this season vs the NW). Nobody aside from the Canucks have made the playoffs for two years in the (NW). Against the Pacific Division they've gone 2-2-1, the next eight games starting tonight is against the Central and Pacific Division.

 

 

Blues & Wings struggling early

    At times this season it’s shocking to see how bad the Detroit Red Wings are defensively. For almost the entire 60 minutes Sunday versus the LA Kings, the Wings were completely schooled. From beginning to end they gave up 49 shots on goal, including 40 in the first two periods. The only saving grace they had was goaltender Jimmy Howard who’s finally finding his game this season. Even tonight versus St. Louis, again the Red Wings looked terrible at times. To say they’re missing defenseman Niklas Lindstrom is the understatement of the century.

Blues struggling and then some

    The same can be said the Blues, at times defensively they’re scrambling for their lives. Kris Russell looks more and more than a undersized minor league defenseman, compared to a six deman. Same could be said for young defenseman Ian Cole. But when it’s all said and done, goaltender Brian Elliott is looking like he did before he arrived in St. Louis. In 2011-12 he had a 1.56 g.a.a with a .940 save percentage, this season (in 9 games) he’s got a 3.57 g.a.a and a .849%; similar numbers to 2010-11 3.45 g.a.a and a .892%. He’s been so bad this year, Ken Hitchcock played third stringer Jake Allen instead of Elliott. 

Jets make two deals, Cookie at it again, Sens are in deep trouble

    The “Toronto Maple Leaf” experiment lasted all of 12 games. The Winnipeg Jets came into the season with a third line of Kyle Wellwood, Nik Antropov and newly signed Alexei Ponikarvosky. Earlier today the Jets acquired former Pittsburgh Penguin Eric Tangradi for a 2013 seventh round draft pick. Four hours later to make room for Tangradi, the Jets traded Ponikarvosky to the New Jersey Devils for a fourth & seventh round draft pick. When the Jets signed the Ukrainian left winger in the off-season it reeked of desperation, a far-fetched hope to finally find Antropov a linemate he can trust and play with. That like the acquisition of Tangradi will mean the Jets will need to keep searching high and low.

    Amazed is my reaction to anyone wanting Ponikarovsky. Did he play decent hockey with the Devils last year? Yes, but I also watched him the year before in Los Angeles were he looked liked the most disinterested play in hockey history. He most certainly will be an upgrade compared to Bobby Butler and or Jacob Josefson.

    “Cookie” at it again?

   Yes for the first time in a long time, another team is disgusted with Penguin forward Matt Cooke. Tonight in the Sens vs Pens game; Cooke & star defenseman went into the boards together, with Karlsson leaving the battle with a very serious cut on the back of him leg. He has to have surgery in his Achilles tendon, it would be safe to assume the Senators season (playoff lives) is more than in jeopardy. Tonight with 3 minutes left in the third period, Sens tough guy Chris Neil sort of went after Cooke; in obvious disgust. One would assume no suspension would be levied, to hard to tell if he did this intentionally. One could easily say Karlsson was the NHL’s MVP for the first quarter of the season. “Cookie” is far from an angel, known as one of if not one of the dirtiest players in the game.

Leafs to stand pat; Kadri, Frattin going nowhere

 

    It’s looking less and less likely that Roberto Luongo would be traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Has the goaltending for the Leafs been great? Some nights yes, some nights no. But there is a few reasons why this trade will not occur. The Leafs have lost the depth up front they once had just after the lockout ended. They've traded Matthew Lombardi to the Phoenix Coyotes (to free up a roster spot), they waived and sent to the minors Tim Connolly. They then lost Keith Aucoin to waivers (claimed by the NYI), then Joffrey Lupul broke his forearm Wednesday and is out 6 weeks. After looking at the start that Nazem Kadri & Tyler Bozak have had.... guessing the Canucks wish they would have acquired them when they had a chance.

    If the Leafs decide on getting another goalie outside of the organization, look for it to be Jonathan Bernier from the LA Kings. The defending cup champs have a desperate need for defenseman, that is something the Leafs have more than enough of. But, the Kings are currently seeking a top four de-man; would the Leafs part with Carl Gunnarsson or John-Michael Liles? And would LA want either of those two back in return? It would be a forgone conclusion that Cody Franson wouldn’t be enough in return for the Kings to part with Bernier. In the offseason, the Kings could have got Matt Frattin and a draft pick; but like the Canucks option; the Kings now should regret not making the move.

    Would the Leafs want a 33 year old goalie with 10 years left on his contract;  not a chance. Would Bernier a major upgrade compared to the two Leaf goalies now? Bernier to me is more unproven then Andrew Raycroft, Leaf fans remember acquiring him years ago, in hopes of the former Bruin becoming “the goalie of the future”. It’s obvious the Leafs are going with what they have for the season. Keep in mind  there are free agent goalies like Nicklas Backstrom (starting goalie in Minnesota) & Jose Theodore who are available on July 1.

NHL reffing at an all time worst?

   Fictitious hit to the head; spears called then not called; players staying down until they get the call. This has been a less than banner season for the NHL referees thus far. More often than not, every day it seems like a questionable call is costing teams important points in the standings.

    David Backes gets nailed for five and a game, for a clear hit to the chest. That “penalty” led to the Blues losing a 4-3 game last week to the Red Wings. The next day the NHL rescinded the match penalty; because replays clearly show it shouldn’t have been called.

   Last night James Van Riemsdyk gets called for smothering the puck; when his hand was not four feet from the actual puck.

    Yet stars like Evegeni Malkin can two hands Marc Stall over the head; but no call? Johan Franzen spears David Perron, and then punches him in the head and again no call, yet all of the this happening right in front of the official.

   But tonight again a call for the ages; Corey Perry gets speared by Stephane Robidas (no call); after they scrap, Ducks tough guy Brad Staubitz spears Stars defenseman Brendan Dillion, (whom stays down) and magically it’s 5 and a game. But after the call; seconds later Dillion all of a sudden ok. I had thought bogus calls only took place in the British Columbia Hockey League, sadly I was mistaken.

     This doesn't even touch on the “protect the goalie crap”; more than good goals being called back for goalie interference; on a daily basis.  All four officials are to discuss as a whole; but this is certainly not the case. If a netminder is out of his crease, no call should be made.

    I hate to be harsh on today refs; but nobody can lie we haven’t recovered from losing veterans over the past few years. More than fair refs like Kerry Fraser, Bill Mccleary, Dan Marouelli and Rob Schick have all retired over the past few seasons. Who can we says have taken the torch? Marc Joanette, Tim Peel  or Chris Rooney? Is it just me or have today’s refs become more sensitive than ever or am I being to harsh?

"Old time" hockey tonight in Boston?

   It will be a busy tonight in Boston for the two referee’s and the two linesman. Why you ask? The Sabres come into Bean Town for the first time this season; seeking maybe not revenge but vow to keep their best players safe, something they did very little of last year. In the off-season they made it a goal to get bigger and tougher; by the additions of John Scott and Steve Ott; one can say that has been done.

   Ott’s last two visits to the TD Gardens featured three fights in the first three seconds, two years before Ott was in the middle of everything that featured well over 100 PIM’s.

Not convinced tonight will be different compared to most “revenge games”? The Bruins for the first time all season have announced that rookie enforcer Lane Macdermid will suit up for tonights contest. With Buffalo missing Patrick Kaleta, do they recall Rochester enforcer Nick Tarnasky tonight or is Cody Mccormick healthy enough? I’d be shocked if the Sabres don’t come with more ammo.

This reminds me of a game a few seasons back where the Islanders recalled Michael Haley before a game against the Penguins; which led to 18 majors and well over 200 PIM’s throughout the contest.

Sabres @ Bruins “toughness scorecard”

J Scott       S Thornton

S Ott         L Macdermid

M Folingo G Campbell

M Weber  A Macquaid

Tarnasky? M Lucic

Mcormick? Z Chara

 

Don’t forget the Bruins have others as well that are willing to “get involved”. Other Bruins not named above have had 17 fighting majors compared to 3 by the Sabres.

Here come the Hawks

    Are the Hawks destined for another lengthy playoff run? The original six hockey club is off to the best start in decades at 4-0. For the first time since their Stanley Cup Championship a few years ago, the Hawks appear to be loads of depth not just up front but for the first time in years also on the backend.

    They've got the speed, skill, size and toughness more so this year than in years past. The good news if anything, is they wouldn't need to offload salaries like they did back in 2010. The only question mark regarding the Hawks, is the same one they had when they won the Cup; that of course is goaltending. But the good news if anything is that starting netminder Corey Crawford has only allowed 6 goals in three games, and has yet to allow that weak goal per game. Backup Ray Emery maybe the only unstable part of the team, he looked rather horrible Sunday against Phoenix.

    The other advantage is they've got the same core that won the Cup, so they know the work involved in order to get back to the final.

Expect minor tweaks come trade deadline

    Chicago has got shockingly lots of cap space, estimated at 3.2 (cap space), but if you don’t count Steve Montador (long term injured reserved 2.5 million cap hit) & Rostislav Olesz (3.5) not with the team, they have much more space available than other contending teams. The Hawks have allot of prospects who could be with the big team, I would suggest the Markus Kruger’s or Jimmy Hayes could be movable at the trade deadline to get some an insurance third line center, another depth defenseman and/or a better quality backup goalie.

Scarier than in years past

    Three reasons why teams should pay attention to the Hawks compared to years past. Reason one & two; are Patrick Kane & Marian Hossa. Kane is having thus far a outstanding bounce back season. Seven points in four games; compared to his 67 points last season, good for him. Hossa has now recovered 100% from the cheap shot from Raffi Torres. Both Hossa & Kane appear to be in midseason form; what’s more unreal is how both are on separate lines when playing 5 on 5.

    The third reason why Chicago is looking so good; is the emergence of Nick Leddy, and the consistency of Johhny Oduya, Nik Hjalmarrsson, Michael Roszival. The backend 1 through 6 have very little if no flaws at all. On top of that; they've got a seventh de-man in Sheldon Brookbank who provides the nastiness when needed.

Worst goalies in Winnipeg Jets history

   The first go around for the Winnipeg Jets was one that some fans want to forget. Mainly because of some of the poor netminding they had. We’re about to review seven of the worst goalies in Jets history. These seven have a combined 55-159-25 record, one of the goalies played one game letting in 10 goals against.The first go around for the Winnipeg Jets was one that some fans want to forget. Mainly because of some of the poor netminding they had. We’re about to review seven of the worst goalies in Jets history. These seven have a combined 55-159-25 record, one of the goalies played one game letting in 10 goals against.

Markus Mattsson

    Markus Mattsson was  originally drafted in 1977 by the New York Islanders in the 5th round. In 43 games with the Jets, the Finnish netminder went 8-32-3. In 1979 Mattsson allowed Wayne Gretzky to score his first goal as an Edmonton Oiler.

Pierre Hamel

    Pierre Hamel was a diminutive French Canadian netminder. In 64 career games with the Jets, Hamel went 12-39-7 with a 4.34 g.a.a. His second season (80-81) was the worst, going 3-20-4 with a 4.73 g.a.a.

Mike O’Neill

   Mike O’Neill went win less during his 20 games with the Jets. He was one of the worst draft picks in Jets history, being drafted 15th overall in 1988.

Marc Behrend

   There is two reasons why Marc Behrend was one of the worst goalies ever in Jets history. It’s not his 12-19-3 record, instead it’s his 4.82 g.a.a and a .844%. His best season was 84-85 when he went 8-10 with a 4.29 g.a.a, his other two seasons, he had a 5.47 and a 5.83 g.a.a.

Ron Loustel

    If one were to ask a trivia question about the worst one game performance ever, not even just in Jets history but in the NHL, the answer would be Ron Loustel. It was so awful, that it was the sixth round pick only game in the NHL, allowing 10 goals.

Lindsey Middlebrooke

   Lindsay Middlebrooke’s first season with the Jets was average. What earns him the right to the worst ever was his second season (80-81), where he went 0-9-4 with a 5.97 g.a.a Anytime you play 24 games and have a goals against of over 5, you are a horrible goalie. The most shocking stat is this, the Jets eventually traded him to Minnesota for cash, that in itself is a miracle.

Flyers sign veteran, awful officiating in Edmonton; lineup news

Veteran signing; not good news for Laughton

    Late last night when the Philadelphia Flyers signed veteran Mike Knuble to a 1 year contract, one knows it’s not a short term patch-up job while the team struggles with injuries. The signings would lead one to assume it means rookie centerman Scott Laughton wouldn’t be with the team all year long. The Flyers have one more game before they reach their 5 game limit with the rookie. If Laughton plays more than 6 games, it counts as the first year of his contract. The first rounder hasn't looked out of place, but hasn't stood out either. With Knuble on board, Hartnell & Briere coming back with a few weeks; they need to free up a roster spot. If they decide to keep Laughton; that would indicate they might finally waive tough guy Jody Shelley; who is in final year of his three year contract.

Kimberly & Kowal struggle in Edmonton

    Greg Kimberly & Tom Kowal are normally very dependable officials. But last night in Edmonton they struggled throughout the contest with calls that were not penalties & non-calls late in the game that should have been penalties. Earlier in the night; the two refs made a few questionable calls where LA Kings Dustin Brown & Anze Kopitar went down easier than they should have lets say. But half way through the third period, Kings forward Trevor Lewis was called for high sticking; when on the same play Oilers de-man Mark Fistric should have been nailed for slu-footing Lewis. But without question the

biggest missed call all night; is when Sam Gagner cross checked a Kings de-man right in front of the crease with less than 2 minutes left. The Oilers of course went onto to score with 5 seconds left; then won it in overtime on a powerplay after a questionable to many men on the ice penalty against the Kings.

Lineup changes for Ottawa tonight in Tampa

    Backup goalie Ben Bishop makes his first start of the season in Tampa Bay. Often injured forward Guillaume Latendresse misses his first game of the year due to a lower body injury. Kaspars Daugavins makes his season debut in for Latendresse. The third and final change for the Sens will see Mark Borowiecki in for Patrick Weinroch; the American born de-man makes his season debut and is in known for his rough and tumble style like departed veteran Matt Carkner. With Borowiecki being inserted into the lineup tonight; look for the Lightning to insert tough guy Pierre-Cedric Labrie as well

Helm & Bertuzzi back in motown

    Darren Helm & Todd Bertuzzi make their season debuts tonight for the struggling Detroit Red Wings. Helm on the third line, Bertuzzi on the second line, look to bring some stability. They will be already this season (fourth game tonight) the 17th & 18th forward to play so far this year.

NHL's worst starting goalies (2005 to present)

Vesa Toskala

   On June 22, 2007 then Toronto Maple Leaf general manager thought he finally acquired a number one goaltender in Vesa Toskala. They also acquired power forward Mark Bell, from San Jose for three draft picks (1^st, 2^nd & 4^th).  The only issue is Toskala’s number gradually got worse each and every year;  as an example, his first season in Toronto he sported an average g.a.a. of 2.66 and a .907 SP%. By year 3 he had a ballooned g.a.a of 3.66 and a save percentage of .874. His time is widely remembered by a shot let in from the other teams blueline (vs NYI scored by Rob Davidson); likely the softest goal in NHL history.

Rick Dipetro

   There has been a fair share of NHL first overall busts. From the likes of Greg Joly and Alexander Daigle; but when one thinks of the enormous gaff made by the New York Islanders in 2000; it still to this day hinders the hockey club. At the 2000 NHL entry draft; Isles general manager Mike Milbury traded Roberto Luongo; and drafted American goalie Rick Dipetro; skipping over Dany Heatley & Marian Gaborik. Dipetro’s first season with the team was his best ever, going 23-18-5 (2.36 g.a.a & a .911 SP) Desipte a 3.02 g.a.a in the 2005-06 season; Milbury gave the goalie a 15 year extension worth 67.5 million. In his first four seasons he started 238 games, in his last four season he’s only played 47 games. Can you say injuries, injuries and more injuries. The sad fact is this, he was a great goaltender at one time, had to be if he was drafted first overall. His problem over the last four years is more mental; but nowadays he’s a goalie with a ballooned g.a.a (3.50) with a .875 save percentage.

Andrew Raycroft

   Flash in the pan #1. Andrew Raycroft won the Calder Trophy in 2003-04; in that season he went 29-18-9, 2.05 g.a.a & .926 save percentage. The very next season, he went 8-19-2 with a 3.79 g.a.a & .879 SP. Over the next four seasons he’ had a g.a.a of 2.83 or over 5 times. Four times he’s had a save percentage lower than .900. In his rookie season was it a great defense & good goaltending, or a combination of both. More than fair to say after the first season other teams had a book on his. But again, the common thing is mentally he was never the same goalie. If you have any doubt as a goaltender, you’re destined for failure.

Steve Mason

   Flash in the pan #2. Steve Mason like Raycroft won the rookie of the year on 2008-09. He was the only reason why the Columbus Blue Jackets made the playoffs that year. Since that season, the Jackets have been a very lousy team defensively, but again like Raycroft, teams got a book on Mason and he has not found a way to reinvent himself. Three straight seasons with a g.a.a of 3 or higher, almost guarantees Mason to be fighting for a two way contract going forward, the days of a guaranteed one way contract are over, unless he recovers this year and soon. And in his first game of the 2013 season, Mason let in 5 goals on 37 shots.

Marc Denis

   From a flash in a pan to being put into an impossible spot. Marc Denis was drafted 25th overall in 1995; was never going to be the “man” in Colorado, as Patrick Roy was the mainstay number one goalie. Then unfortunately for Denis, he got traded to the first year expansion team Columbus Blue Jackets. For the next five season, he performed well but not great, and his numbers reflected it. Having losing seasons all five seasons, and having a goals against over three four times, despite having a save percentage over .900 three times. In 2006 he was traded to Tampa Bay, and things only got worse, his first year he was one game under .500; 3.19 g.a.a; .883 SP%. The next season he went 1-5 with a 4.05 g.a.a and a .859%. By the time he was traded it was to late to save his career.

    

Is Gillis all talk or will Luongo actually be moved

by Brandt Corbin

 

    Here we go again.

    Remember back in November and even December the deal that would see the Toronto Maple Leafs for Tyler Bozak; plus extras in return for all star goaltender Roberto Luongo was a done deal. It wasn’t a maybe it was suppose to be a completed deal, signed sealed and delivered the minute the lockout ended. How in the middle of a NHL lockout, does this information get leaked to select members of the media; main reason being, no transactions or signings can be done during this time.

    Then the lockout ended; the talks were not even close to being done between the Leafs & Canucks; with Vancouver not happy with the rate of return. And again select reports via the media come out of new teams (Philadelphia Flyers) “are kicking the tires” on Luongo. Within 24 hours Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said “That made me chuckle," he told the Daily News.

   Now late Monday night, magically out of the blue yet again; according to Canucks general manager Mike Gillis, there is a yet another pending deal for Roberto Luongo? But there’s a catch..."We have a potential deal in place with one team that has to do something with another player that they have — and it's not who anybody thinks it is — and so we have to wait. (But) we've been offered packages that don't fit what our plan is, what we need," Gillis told the Vancouver Sun. But wait there is more. "(Teams would offer) excess salary coming back with a [throw-in] player who can't play in our lineup. They say, 'OK, we'll do this, but you've got to take this.' Well, we're not taking it. We've had lots of proposals like that with good pieces that can help us but the other part doesn't help us, and oftentimes they have term attached to them, so we'd just be turning around and buying out a guy,” finished Gillis.

     Fool me once, fool me twice; but a third time I think not. For me it’s quite plain and simple. Gillis is trying to create himself a market that just isn’t there. He refuses to recognize that teams do not want a 33 year old goaltender, with 10 years left on his contract, and has a 5,333,333 contract hit each year.  The fact is this, he will either need to take less back then expected and/or yes take back another bad contract. As an example; Bozak & Mike Komisarek; or Matt Read & Niklas Grossman from the Flyers; or RJ Umberger & Steve Mason.  Until Gillis accepted this, he’s stuck with a “goalie controversy” that he’s created himself.

Worst trades #3; Mike Milbury style

   Have you ever wondered how or why the New York Islanders could be so bad for so long? One man is mainly responsible for it, and his name is Mike Milbury. From 1995-2006, the former Boston Bruin player & coach tormented Islander fans with dozens of awful trades; that still hurts the team today.
   In the middle of the 1997-98 seasons, Milbury thought it would be wise to move top prospects Bryan Mccabe, Todd Bertuzzi and a 3rd rounder. In return he got Trevor Linden, whose best years were behind him. Over the next 9 seasons, Linden would not score more than 19 goals & 47 points. Bertuzzi went on to become a point a game player all-star; McCabe went onto get 50 points or more three seasons.
   One of the worst trade ever in NHL history, and I was at the Saddledome when it was announced was the following. Isles dealt Roberto Luongo, still today one of the top ten goalies in the NHL. Along with Olli Jokinen (4 time 30 goal scorer, 4 time 20 goal scorer); in return Mark Parrish (3 time 20 goal scorer, 1 time 30 goal scorer) & Oleg Kvasha, (15 goal career high, 51 points). The worst part is at the same time they drafted Rick Dipetro; compared to Luongo it’s not even close. Obviously Jokinen & Luongo are still above NHLers compared to Parrish who struggles to find work in the AHL; or Kvasha who has been in the KHL for the past 7 years.
   Longtime Islander Derek King (30 goal scorer twice, 40 goals 1 time) traded to Hartford for a 5th round pick. King went onto score 20 goals the next two seasons.
   Another bad deal was acquiring Alexei Yashin for Zdeno Chara, 2nd overall pick (Jason Spezza) and Bill Muckalt. I’m not going sit here and bash Yashin; he for the most part went onto be a very productive member of the New York Islanders, (other than his lack of defensive ability). It’s not his fault ownership signed him to a 10 contact worth 8.75 per year. But the fact is Spezza & Chara have been much more effective NHLers than ever envisioned.  Spezza has been one of the premier centerman’s & Chara gone onto win the Norris Trophy for NHL’s best defenseman.
Decent trades made by Milbury
    Not many, but Milbury made a couple of shrewd moves; one of which was getting veteran Michael Peca for then prospects Tim Connolly and Taylor Pyatt. Neither Connolly nor Pyatt developed into a topline NHLER. Peca led the Isles into the playoffs all 3 years with New York.
    Another smart move was Darby Hendrickson,  Kenny Jonsson,  Sean Haggerty and TOR 1st round choice in 1997 Entry Draft(4th overall: G Roberto Luongo) from TOR to NYI for Wendel Clark, Mathieu Schneider and D.J. Smith.  Jonsson went onto to play 9 consistent years for the Isles.

Five unsung goalies from the 80s & 90s

   I’m sitting here bored waiting for the season to start. I thought I’d troll through the 1994-95 NHL Guide & Record book.
   In the mid 1980’s and into the 1990’s goalies such as Grant Fuhr, Tom Barrasso, Andy Moog’s were not the absolute best goaltenders, but got more appreciation than others that deserved some of the lime light. We’re about to go over some of the unsung heroes & underrated goalies from that era.
Jon Casey
   Jon Casey didn't play in the Big Apple, Toronto or Edmonton. For most of this career he was the number one netminder for the Minnesota North Stars. The Grand Rapids native struggled from 1983-1988; but starting 88-89 season, he was the main man in the net for the next 5 seasons.  He had only one losing season in the five years, despite never playing in front of a less than stellar team.
   He was the sole reason the Stars went to the Cup final in 90-91. Going 14-7 with a 3.04 gaa; during the four round marathon.  In the year of the cup run; the undrafted free agent sported a 2.98 gaa.
Bob Essensa
   The longtime Winnipeg Jet starter had a good run with the team during his six year stint. Like Casey, Essensa never got to play in front a great team; more time than not he’d face 40 or more shots a night. He started 45 games are more four years in a row; including 67 in 91-92.
Kirk Mclean
   After 6 games over two seasons with New Jersey; Kirk Mclean started 40 or more games eight years in a row. Mclean really started to step up his game in the 91-92 season, in that season he was named a 2nd team all star. In 63 games that season he went 38-17-9 with a 2.74 gaa; that started a four year stretch where he won a round or more each year.  Like Casey; Mclean led the Canucks to a Stanley Cup final appearance in 93-94 going 15-9.
Darren Puppa
   Puppa took over in Buffalo for longtime starter Tom Barrasso. In the 89-90 season he went 31-16-6 with a 2.89 gaa;  earning him a place as a second team all star. After his seven year stint in Buffalo; Puppa went onto to be the starting goalie for the expansion Tampa Bay Lightning where he had a career low 2.71 gaa.
Chris Terreri
   The last New Jersey Devil starter before the legendary Martin Brodeur; Terreri had shockingly good numbers. It would be fair to say he had the least amount of spotlight compared to the other four. He was consistent year in year out; often sporting a gaa below 3.

PHI-PIT-OTT-WPG-CHI-LAK; lineups & scratches

Pens vs Flyers  

    After some late season nastiness between the Flyers & Penguins in mid 2013; Flyers coach Peter Lavliolette is taking a liberal approach for todays game. It appears Tom Sestito & Jody Shelley; both know for their size and toughness will be healthy scratches headed into the opener. Same can be said for defenseman Bruno Gervais. The Penguins plan on sitting out center Dustin Jeffrey & Ben Lovejoy.

    Sorry for you non-lovers of violence; but there is so much hatred here; it`s only a matter not if but when something happens. One would have assumed Laviolette be prepare for that type of game and inserting Shelley or Sestito.

 

Forward line Combos

Hartnell – Giroux – B. Schenn             Dupuis-Crobsy-Kunitz

Voracek- Couturier - Talbot -             Neal – Malkin – Tangradi

Read – Laughton – Simmonds           Cooke – Sutter – Kennedy

Fedotenko – Wellwood – Rinaldo      Glass – Vitale – Adams

 

Sens vs Jets

    Both of these two Canadian teams seek to get off to a quick start. No matter what the experts say; these two teams will go neck & neck; so these head to head match ups are large.

    Expect no surprises in the Ottawa lineup; at this time Kaspars Daugavins & Mark Boroweicki will be the healthy scratches; with Ben Bishop also being avl. as the third goalie.

    The Jets lineup is almost set; Nik Antropov is probable, if he`s not good to go look for Anthony Peluso to make his NHL debut. Zack Redmond & James Wright will be out as healthy scratches.

Forward line Combos

Ladd- Little- Wheeler                            Michalek – Spezza - Sifverberg

Kane- Jokinen- Wellwood                     Latendresse – Turris – Alferdson

Ponikarovsky – Antropov- Burmistrov   Greening – Smith – Neil

Thorburn - Slater – Scheifele                Regin – O`Brien – Condra

Hawks vs Kings

    Jonathan Toews is a question mark because of the Flu; the Hawks captain did not skate Friday. The Kings will be without Anze Kopitar & Willie Mitchell both with knee injuries. Healthy scratches for LA will be Anthony Stewart, Brad Richarson & Jake Muzzin. The Hawks line-up is not known at this time; but it is safe to assume Sheldon Brookbank will be the 7th de-man & a scratch for the Hawks.

Forward line Combos

Penner – Carter – Williams

Gagne – Richards – Brown

King – Stoll – Lewis

Clifford – Fraser – Nolan