With just four teams and two rounds left, I figured we could start this thread.

Sabres made their biggest move of the off-season by re-signing 3rd-liner Mike Grier to an one-year deal.

Backstrom signed a 10-year, $67 million deal to stay with the Caps

The big rumor is that Evgeni Malkin could on the the trading block?
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/business/Time+Pens+move+Malkin/3034297/story.html

Nick Lidstrom is going to re-sign with the Red Wings. It will be a one year deal slightly below the $7.45 million he made last year. Not sure how far below, but likely within the $6 million range.

The Wings are also hoping to re-sign Bertuzzi and Holmstrom.

Jiri Hudler is back after his one year KHL experiment. He's back at the same $2.75 (or thereabouts) two year deal he signed before bolting to Russia for fat, tax free loots.

The Wings will also look to keep restrict free agents Helm, Eaves, Miller, Abdelkader.

All of that wont leave much space under the cap to sign any other big (or even medium) names in the off-season. They will be looking for maybe a 3rd line guy with a little offensive up-side potential and/or 4th line guy with some grit/toughness. They may also look for a 5th/6th defensemen depending on what Lilja does.

Lidstrom is back at 6.2 mil.

The big news for me is Yzerman taking over the Lightning. I think it's a perfect situation for him, though Vinny's deal might end up being an issue. Regardless, he has pieces in place with Stamkos and Hedman plus another top pick this year.

Can't wish a person more success then Stevie Y and I am pretty sure he will find it.

The big news for me is Yzerman taking over the Lightning. I think it's a perfect situation for him, though Vinny's deal might end up being an issue. Regardless, he has pieces in place with Stamkos and Hedman plus another top pick this year.

Can't wish a person more success then Stevie Y and I am pretty sure he will find it.

I agree.

I have never really known a Red Wings organization that didn't include Yzerman. He's been the Constant. He's also been a continuous source of pride as a fan of this team. Regardless of who I have run into and how much they hate the Red Wings, I have never met anyone who can deny the greatness and class of Steve Yzerman.

It will be weird not see him in the press box or no longer officially associated with the team, but I think Mike Ilitch said it the best that Yzerman is family and is and will always be a Red Wing. The ties run too deep. He'll always be ours, regardless of the team he is officially associated with.

I wish him the best of luck. It is impossible for me to route against the man. I couldn't do it during the Olympics, not wholeheartedly, and wont be able to do it now (except for the rare Wings/Tampa matchup).

While I have always liked some teams more than others in the NHL, I have never had a "second favorite" team. There was always the Wings and then everybody else. I guess Tampa will be my "second favorite" team now.

Tampa Bay is the place where all Red Wings great go. First, Petr Klima and now Stevie Y!

I agree.

I have never really known a Red Wings organization that didn't include Yzerman. He's been the Constant. He's also been a continuous source of pride as a fan of this team. Regardless of who I have run into and how much they hate the Red Wings, I have never met anyone who can deny the greatness and class of Steve Yzerman.

It will be weird not see him in the press box or no longer officially associated with the team, but I think Mike Ilitch said it the best that Yzerman is family and is and will always be a Red Wing. The ties run too deep. He'll always be ours, regardless of the team he is officially associated with.

I wish him the best of luck. It is impossible for me to route against the man. I couldn't do it during the Olympics, not wholeheartedly, and wont be able to do it now (except for the rare Wings/Tampa matchup).

While I have always liked some teams more than others in the NHL, I have never had a "second favorite" team. There was always the Wings and then everybody else. I guess Tampa will be my "second favorite" team now.

Tampa Bay is the place where all Red Wings great go. First, Petr Klima and now Stevie Y!

How dare you forget Yves Racine and Tim Taylor?!

Holmer signs a 2 year extension with Detroit. Apparently it ends up averaging out to a $1.87 million cap hit. Not bad.

So who wins the Tomas Kaberle trade sweepstakes prior to the draft?

Looks like the Blue Jackets have extended an offer to Guy Boucher to be the next coach.

Boucher Is The Guy (Puck-Rakers Blog) (http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/2010/06/boucher_is_the_guy.shtml)

Its a gutsy call, as Boucher only has 1 year experience in the AHL (Hamilton) and a few years coaching in the QMJHL (Drummondville). He'd also be the youngest coach in the NHL as well. Supposedly he's a fantastic motivator (has a masters degree in sports psychology, as well a degree in history and biosystems engineering from McGill) and he plays an up-tempo style with a twist, as he runs a 1-3-1 forecheck.

Its a bold move, but the Jackets are still a young team, and his past experience with Derick Brassard (who needs to make a big jump this year) doesn't hurt.

Of course, if he turns down the offer, then this is a whole new game.

The Bruins have re-signed two key players this weekend, Dennis Seidenberg and Shawn Thornton. Seidenberg played extremely well during the stretch run and fit in well in a partnership with Zdeno Chara, something Derek Morris didn't do all season. Thornton had the most fighting majors for the Bruins in something like 10 years. He isn't the best player but he's a good clubhouse guy and that's primarily why they brought him back as a fourth line guy.

Man...I wonder what the Sabres will do with last year's top selection, Zack Kassian. Guy seems to be getting into a lot of trouble on-and-off the ice.


Sabres Edge: Kassian arrested in Windsor bar fight (http://blogs.buffalonews.com/sabres/2010/05/kassian-arrested-in-windsor-bar-fight.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+typepad%2Fbuffalonews%2Fsabres+%28Sabres+Edge%29&utm_c)

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Spitfire+Kassian+charged+with+assault/3104751/story.html

Man...I wonder what the Sabres will do with last year's top selection, Zack Kassian. Guy seems to be getting into a lot of trouble on-and-off the ice.


Sabres Edge: Kassian arrested in Windsor bar fight (http://blogs.buffalonews.com/sabres/2010/05/kassian-arrested-in-windsor-bar-fight.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+typepad%2Fbuffalonews%2Fsabres+%28Sabres+Edge%29&utm_c)

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Spitfire+Kassian+charged+with+assault/3104751/story.html

Wow, I remember hoping that guy would fall to the Ducks.

We got another punk kid with our pick in that draft, don't worry about that. Maybe we can still trade for Kassian and he and Palmieri can hit the town together.

We got another punk kid with our pick in that draft, don't worry about that. Maybe we can still trade for Kassian and he and Palmieri can hit the town together.

Has Palmieri been a punk? Last I checked he was doing pretty good. Hadn't heard any bad stories.

Logan MacMillan on the other hand...

Arrested in April for underage drinking and resisting arrest (allegedly tried to grab the cops taser). Not exactly high treason but not great given his track record. Sounds like we are putting together quite a team of characters, I didn't know about MacMillan's DUI.

Wow, I remember hoping that guy would fall to the Ducks.

Seems like the guy could be a wrecking ball on the ice.

So the rumors are now that Ilya Kovalchuk wants to play in Russia?

So the rumors are now that Ilya Kovalchuk wants to play in Russia?

Been speculated for a while. I fully expect it to wind up being the case too.

So the rumors are now that Ilya Kovalchuk wants to play in Russia?

Tax free money can't be turned down, can it?

actually I think his preference is to play in the NHL. The rumors and speculation are that a KHL team is going to make him an offer that will be tough to turn down.

If he goes, this will likely spawn another slew of those "the KHL is a threat to the NHL" articles. I still don't think it is. Sure, Kovalchuk is a premier talent and it will be the NHL's loss if he goes, but I still don't see the KHL as that a big a threat at all and I question the long term viability of the league.

Something like 15 million per year...tax free right?

The Wings just signed Ilari Filppula, Valterri's older brother, to a one-year two-way contract for $500,000. More than likely, he will be in Grand Rapids.

Ilari is 28 and Jari Kurri Trophy as the playoff MVP in the Finnish League.

Burning questions:

1. Does he have a unibrow like his brother?

2. To which team will he subsequently traded to and then blossom in the playoffs?

2. To which team will he subsequently traded to and then blossom in the playoffs?

Winnipeg Jets.

Bertuzzi re-ups with the Wings. A 2 year deal worth $3.875 in total. A small raise from his $1.5 million last year.

2. To which team will he subsequently traded to and then blossom in the playoffs?

We have some more 8th/9th defensemen and a 5th rounder we could send you.

Devils name John MacLean as new coach.

John MacLean, New Jersey Devils' all-time leading goal scorer is new coach - ESPN New York (http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nhl/news/story?id=5296917)

Devils name John MacLean as new coach.

John MacLean, New Jersey Devils' all-time leading goal scorer is new coach - ESPN New York (http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nhl/news/story?id=5296917)

http://blueprint.freedomblogging.com/files/2007/11/welcome-to-the-party-pal.jpg

Spanish subtitles, even :D

SI

Habs have apparently dealt Jaroslav Halak to the Blues, according to TSN.ca
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=324934

FM

Uh, why would they do that? He almost singlehandedly beat Washington

SI

Uh, why would they do that? He almost singlehandedly beat Washington

SI

He had more trade value then Price. Price is still a solid young goalie, but if you can get more for Halak, you have to do it.

That said I want to see what they got before I say it was the right move.

He had more trade value then Price. Price is still a solid young goalie, but if you can get more for Halak, you have to do it.

That said I want to see what they got before I say it was the right move.

The Canadiens got Lars Eller and Ian Schultz.

The Canadiens got Lars Eller and Ian Schultz.

Just saw that. Not a bad deal actually since Bob Mackenzie is reporting neither Montreal or St. Louis have discussed an extension with Halak and apparently there is a strong KHL interest in him.

Does seem a bit odd though as apparently the team hadn't contacted Halak at all since the season ended until today to tell him that he'd been traded.

Listening to the radio and reading statements by his agent, it seems like Nathan Horton has a good possibility of being trade by the draft. Rumors are that the Sabres are very interested in him.

Panthers might trade Nathan Horton soon - Sun Sentinel (http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-06-16/sports/fl-nathan-horton-panthers-0617-20100616_1_nathan-horton-tallon-stephen-weiss)

How did Danny Briere and son come away their car accident with just minor injuries last night?

wgrz.com | Buffalo, NY | Danny Briere, Son Escape Serious Injury In Crash with Tractor Trailer (http://www.wgrz.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=77977&catid=37)

The Range Rover is completely totaled.

The back end looks pretty brutal but the cab itself looks like it's in pretty good shape. Still, pretty nice to hear that neither had any serious injuries.

If Halak does end up signing with the Blues, that's a terrible deal for Montreal. I can't believe somebody wasn't willing to pay more just based on potential.

That being said, the lack of contact is a red flag. If he jumps to the KHL a couple of prospects isn't a bad haul. If he's in the NHL next year, the mobs will be burning cars in the street.

Adrian Aucoin, back to Phoenix for 2 years.

Doesn't seem like a huge deal, but these are the types or re-signings just before free agency that forces teams to overpay for the guys who do make it to July 1.

DOLA

Good read on the impact of the 5% escalator clause on the cap.

NHLPA should opt for salary inflator - NYPOST.com (http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/more_sports/rai_your_cap_FDaM9PZ1pSzGfC22wjTizN/0#ixzz0r8WOgmPM)

Listening the radio and reading statements by his agent, it seems like Nathan Horton has a good possibility of being trade by the draft. Rumors are that the Sabres are very interested in him.

Panthers might trade Nathan Horton soon - Sun Sentinel (http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2010-06-16/sports/fl-nathan-horton-panthers-0617-20100616_1_nathan-horton-tallon-stephen-weiss)

This is sad:

Horton, 25, has the second-longest tenure with the Panthers

Adrian Aucoin, back to Phoenix for 2 years.

Doesn't seem like a huge deal, but these are the types or re-signings just before free agency that forces teams to overpay for the guys who do make it to July 1.

Or someone to trade for Timmy Thomas' and his salary.

:Crosses Fingers:

This is sad:

LOL...

I wonder if a change of scenery to a passionate hockey market might give him the mojo to take his game to that next level.

LOL...

I wonder if a change of scenery to a passionate hockey market might give him the mojo to take his game to that next level.

It certainly worked for Olli Jokinen!

It certainly worked for Olli Jokinen!

Twice!

Rob Blake is hangin' em' up. Always been one of my absolute favorites. Talk about a guy who played the game the right way.

Rob Blake is hangin' em' up. Always been one of my absolute favorites. Talk about a guy who played the game the right way.

Best hip-checker I've ever seen.

Rob Blake is hangin' em' up. Always been one of my absolute favorites. Talk about a guy who played the game the right way.

As a Sharks fan, I don't want to say I'm glad that he's retiring but it is probably for the better cap wise. His play really dropped off this past year so most of his value was his leadership ability. With Blake gone, I wonder who will get the 'C'. My hope is for Pavelski or Boyle but I guess Thornton might get some consideration as well.

Dan Hamhuis rights to Philly, Ryan Parent back to Nashville.

I'll wait for Sak or another Flyers fan to chime in, but not sure how this fits salary wise.

Hamhuis was looking to get $4M+ a year. That D was already damn good before, it is really deep with him...but who the hell is in goal?

How much is the cap going up this year? Any good sites that list the caps and player salaries?

So, is Chicago as completely fucked as they seem? I've heard they are abour $4M over the cap with 14 players signed and in real hell, but didn't know.

Arnott back to NJ for Halischuk + pick

How much is the cap going up this year? Any good sites that list the caps and player salaries?

I am a big fan of CapGeek.com - NHL salary cap calculator, buyout calculator, free agents and more! (http://www.capgeek.com/index.php)

Bettman has said it could go up by $2M, so about $58.8. But that depends on a vote by the NHLPA to invoke that 5% escrow clause again.

So, is Chicago as completely fucked as they seem? I've heard they are abour $4M over the cap with 14 players signed and in real hell, but didn't know.

Define completely

If they can get someone to take Campbell's contract and Huet (or burying Huet in the AHL for 2 years) they'd open a boatload of space. But, that isn't happening.

So, most likely two of Sharp, Versteeg and Byfuglien are gone, and probably one of the two RFAs, Ladd and Hjarlmarsson.

How it happened? Alot, IMO, is tied to the fuck up last summer, when the RFA deals for Versteeg, Byfuglien, Barker, etc were not valid by league rules. Those, at that time, were qualifying offers to retain the players rights for this past season, and were 10% raises on the prior season's contracts. Rather than lose all those players, they had to sign them to market level deals rather than have them become UFAs. That is how all 3 of them went from what should have been $900K salaries to $3M+ salaries.

I think I said this before, but maybe no one responded. I thought you couldn't bury a contract in AHL unless it's a two way deal? That would seem to be a major loophole in the CBA if it exists.

That's my understanding of it too, unless something changed after the lockout.

You can waive any player (unless he has a no movement clause), and should he clear, demote him to the AHL. One there, you still must pay his salary, but it does not count against the cap.

The exception to that, any player signed to a deal at the age of 35 or older, no matter where he is, counts against the cap. This is to stop teams from signing a 36 year old player to a 10 year/$35M deal to lessen the cap hit, rather than a 4 year/$20M deal.

Also, once the player is in the minors, he can be re-called. He is then exposed to re-entry waivers. A team claiming him on re-entry would be responsible for 50% of the remaining pro-rated salary, and therefore, cap hit for the season.

Last season, happened with Randy Jones. I think his deal was worth $2.75M. Philly puts him on waivers, goes unclaimed, reports to AHL. Philly then recalls him, LA claims him. For convenience, say it occurs Jan 1st, halfway through the season.

He is owed $1.375M for the remainder of the year. LA would pay the full $1.375, but only $687K counts against Kings cap number. The other 687K counts against Philly.

So yes, it is a loophole. However, not many teams want to pay a guy millions to not play. Could happen come October with Huet, due $5.625M for two more seasons.

I think I said this before, but maybe no one responded. I thought you couldn't bury a contract in AHL unless it's a two way deal? That would seem to be a major loophole in the CBA if it exists.

I don't think I'd consider this a "major loophole". While it definitely gives the richer clubs an edge, so long as they are willing to pay someone a lot of money for not playing, I think it is necessary to allow teams to get under the cap at times. I could see a team really being hamstrung if it didn't have this option.

I think Chicago will try to trade Huet, but unless they give the other team a lot in return, I don't see it happening. So, they bury him in the AHL.

Like SR said, the Chicago problem has a lot to do with the RFA screw up last year and because of the big money contracts they signed guys like Campbell and Huet to. Neither player will ever live up to their respective deal. Yes, the Hossa deal is a lot of money, but, arguably, he's worth it. The other two, not so much.

Arnott and Hamhuis gone? So begins the annual purge of talent from Nashville, yet, some how, they will still manage to be competitive.

Pens retain Matt Cooke, 3 years $1.8M per. A decent bump from $1.2, but probably still below market.

Also yesterday, signed (The Reverend) Ben Lovejoy to a 3 year deal, $525K per. He's almost assured of being the #6 guy on D next year, nothing left to really do in the AHL (9 goals, 29 pts on an average WBS team last year, something absurd like +48 the year before), he's 26, and most importantly, he's a cheap contract to play on the third pair.

Right now looking like this:

Kunitz - Crosby - Dupuis
XXXXX- Malkin - XXXXX
Cooke - Staal - Kennedy
Rupp - Talbot - Adams
Godard

Letang - Orpik
XXXXX - XXXXX
Goligoski - Lovejoy

Fleury
Johnson

With $8.5M to spend. Talk is they want to keep Gonchar, but he wants around the $5M he got the last five seasons, and that kills that cap. They are pretty much forced to put at least one rookie in the lineup with Crosby/Malkin if that is the case.

Wouldn't be shocked to see them try and move Dupuis. He's a nice player, and at $1.4M not a huge cost. But, he really shouldn't be in the top 6. Problem is, neither should Talbot, Cooke etc. Tyler Kennedy might deserve a shot there.

Nathan Horton and another player will be headed to Boston.

@TSNBobMcKenzie: Horton and Gregory Campbell for Dennis Wideman, 15th overall pick and another draft pick. Done.

Who are Horton and Campbell? I'm surprised to see the B's move that 15th pick - word was they wanted to move up to try to grab one of the big defensemen.

instead they dump it along with wideman for a couple of wingers, one of whom (campbell) doesn't even look that good.

strange trade.

I'm glad Wideman is gone. Losing the 15th overall pick hurts, though. Horton is a solid acquisition and Greg Campbell should fill the 4th line center position that Yelle/Begin filled the last two years.

Now let's see who the Bruins get for Timmy Thomas.

Who are Horton and Campbell? I'm surprised to see the B's move that 15th pick - word was they wanted to move up to try to grab one of the big defensemen.

instead they dump it along with wideman for a couple of wingers, one of whom (campbell) doesn't even look that good.

strange trade.

Horton has scored 20 + goals every season on bad teams. Still young too. Playing with Savard I could see him net 35 or so.

Horton has scored 20 + goals every season on bad teams. Still young too. Playing with Savard I could see him net 35 or so.

Fair enough. I figured he was the "good player" in the trade. Cuz it sure wasn't Campbell.

Losing that #15 hurts, but maye they have a line on something going down with Thomas that'll fill the D-slot, or replenish the draft pick?

Other news

Niedermayer set to retire

NHLPA votes in the 5% escalator clause, cap set at $59.6M

That helps the Hawks, who can now afford to qualify Ladd. And maybe helps Pittsburgh hold onto Gonchar.

DOLA

Plekanec re-signs in MTL $5M per, not sure on term yet

Pat Quinn is now the Senior Hockey Advisor...whatever that means. Renney is now the head coach.

DOLA

Plekanec re-signs in MTL $5M per, not sure on term yet

Six years.

Horton is well worth the 15th overall IMO, and with Wideman going the other way doesn't add any salary. Great move by the Bruins.

Sabres miss the boat again with Horton. Pathetic that this organization can't take the blinders off when it looks at its own players and grow some balls.

Chicago may be in cap hell, but I think you can't argue that they got something out of it. I know there's different philosophies out there, but I believe if you have a chance to win but screw your team up for a couple of years after, you have to try to win it all. And it worked.

Chicago may be in cap hell, but I think you can't argue that they got something out of it. I know there's different philosophies out there, but I believe if you have a chance to win but screw your team up for a couple of years after, you have to try to win it all. And it worked.

Cap hell or not, at least they have most of the money invested wisely, i.e. really good hockey players, while there are several teams in similar circumstances who finished dead friggin' last!!!

Chicago may be in cap hell, but I think you can't argue that they got something out of it. I know there's different philosophies out there, but I believe if you have a chance to win but screw your team up for a couple of years after, you have to try to win it all. And it worked.

Absolutely. You totally have to go for it, especially with the cap. Chicago had their "sweet spot" and it would have been foolish for them not to try and take full advantage of it. As far as I am concerned, if you manage to win it, all the bad signings or trades are just something to worry about another day.

This is especially true if you haven't won a championship in decades.

Cap hell or not, at least they have most of the money invested wisely, i.e. really good hockey players, while there are several teams in similar circumstances who finished dead friggin' last!!!

This is another good point. Sure, the Blackhawks are going to face some difficult decisions this summer and will lose some valuable pieces, but even after making the trades they need to make or what not, they will still be one of the top 3-4 teams in the NHL. Their core is still incredibly strong and, for the most part, very young and still getting better. They will also be getting some pieces back for whomever they trade.

This isn't like the Florida Marlins. They aren't going to fade into Bolivian.

Pat Burns and Fred Shero not making the HHOF is a shame.

I guess the thing with Chicago is they could have had that exact same team and not been in so much of cap hell if they just hadn't screwed up the qualifying offers to those three players, and one of their biggest contracts is to a guy who really didn't contribute that much (Huet).

But I completely agree with the theory. Way better to win a championship and tough it out for a few years than to be a team that is consistently a playoff team and never has the talent to really compete.

Huet is the only blemish on that roster, cap-wise...but at least they have a cheap, starting goalie to offset that faux-pas.

Huet is the only blemish on that roster, cap-wise.

*cough*BrianCampbell*cough*

Huet is the only blemish on that roster, cap-wise...but at least they have a cheap, starting goalie to offset that faux-pas.

Well, had a cheap starting goalie. Niemi is getting $3M+ a year, which for a starter is still nice money...unless you are already $3M over the cap.

Six years.

Montreal has 6 guys over the $5M mark now:

Plekanec, Gomez, Gionta, Cammillieri
Markov, Hamrlik

All of the sudden, they've spent $50M, and have only 14 players signed...and 7 of those D. Need to give Pouliot and Price new deals.

Huet is the only blemish on that roster, cap-wise...but at least they have a cheap, starting goalie to offset that faux-pas.

Not for long! Neimi want$ to get paid!

Niemi says "no" to Chicago? His agent raises that question while seeking long-term deal - Blackhawks Confidential (http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/blackhawks-confidential/2010/06/niemi-says-no-to-chicago-his-agent-raises-that-question-while-seeking-long-term-deal.html)

"Antti Niemi made the biggest news of the weekend, however. Not him exactly. His agent, Bill Zito, did the talking while Niemi told Chicago media he didn't want personally to say anything about a new contract. And since Zito said he has not bothered Niemi with contract talks right now, maybe it will be news to Niemi as well that he wants a long-term contract to re-sign with the club.

Zito said he wants the Hawks to sign Niemi to one of those Duncan Keith, Marian Hossa lifetime guarantees, lock him up for 13 years or so. Of course he does, but you can bet the Hawks are not going to do it with so much yet to be learned about Niemi.

Zito talked to the National Post in Canada. "He's going to get his money," Zito said about Niemi. "But the term is going to have something to do with it, too."

*cough*BrianCampbell*cough*

Well, that's not so much a blemish as it is a massive discoloration of dried skin.

Whoops...hadn't seen that bit about Niemi wanting to cash in...good on him.

Regarding Campbell, he's still a really good hockey player and if they choose to deal him then they will certainly get some nice pieces back...overall, a good investment.

Whoops...hadn't seen that bit about Niemi wanting to cash in...good on him.

Regarding Campbell, he's still a really good hockey player and if they choose to deal him then they will certainly get some nice pieces back...overall, a good investment.

He's not horrible, but he's never going to play up to his contract. It's too big and too long (kind of like my Johnson).

You can't afford to pay your 3rd/4th defensement $7 million a year. His contract is at least $2-$3 million a year too big to justify his production and defensive play. I am not sure what they could get in return for him, because nobody else wants to be burdened by his contract. Even teams that are struggling to reach the cap floor don't want it becuase it's too long.

Darius Kasparaitis has retired, after sitting out all of last season in Russia


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Regarding Campbell, he's still a really good hockey player and if they choose to deal him then they will certainly get some nice pieces back...overall, a good investment.

I'm going to have to respectfully disagree with you on the Campbell deal. He may be a decent defenseman, but at over $7m/year (until 2016), that's Chara/Lidstrom/Phaneuf money, and there's no way he's worth that kind of payola. You're going to have a hard time finding a GM willing to take on that contract.

He's not horrible, but he's never going to play up to his contract. It's too big and too long (kind of like my Johnson).

You can't afford to pay your 3rd/4th defensement $7 million a year. His contract is at least $2-$3 million a year too big to justify his production and defensive play. I am not sure what they could get in return for him, because nobody else wants to be burdened by his contract. Even teams that are struggling to reach the cap floor don't want it becuase it's too long.

Yeah, he's overpaid but somebody else would've overpaid had the Hawks not done it. While it looks really bad on a team like Chicago (who have guys like Keith and Seabrook back there already) there are plenty of teams who'd have him in their top pairing and playing first PP minutes. Chicago should be able to exploit one of those teams and all it will cost them is the cap space expended the last two seasons...so, whatever they do get will essentially be for free. Not bad at all.

Darius Kasparaitis has retired, after sitting out all of last season in Russia


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what the fuck am I doing wrong with the embed??????

This is a good question. I have tried to embed YouTube videos on here multiple times and have never, ever figured out how to do it. I've tried multiple things. It never works.

Yeah, he's overpaid but somebody else would've overpaid had the Hawks not done it. While it looks really bad on a team like Chicago (who have guys like Keith and Seabrook back there already) there are plenty of teams who'd have him in their top pairing and playing first PP minutes. Chicago should be able to exploit one of those teams and all it will cost them is the cap space expended the last two seasons...so, whatever they do get will essentially be for free. Not bad at all.

Like somebody said, we'll have to disagree. I don't see any sane GM taking that contract on given what it's going to be paying him when he's 35. Plus he has an NTC, which means any team that has the space to take him on he may veto anyway. He's probably in Chicago for the rest of that contract, like it or not.

This is a good question. I have tried to embed YouTube videos on here multiple times and have never, ever figured out how to do it. I've tried multiple things. It never works.

it will randomly work and then not work for me. frustrating shit.

Yeah, he's overpaid but somebody else would've overpaid had the Hawks not done it. While it looks really bad on a team like Chicago (who have guys like Keith and Seabrook back there already) there are plenty of teams who'd have him in their top pairing and playing first PP minutes. Chicago should be able to exploit one of those teams and all it will cost them is the cap space expended the last two seasons...so, whatever they do get will essentially be for free. Not bad at all.


Like who? I agree with everyone else in that nobody will take his contract and IF they do, they aren't going to send back fair trade value because of the contract. Buffalo let him go because they thought he wasn't worth that coin.

Coming out via numerous of the "official" sources (Dreger RT kausatoday) on twitter that the Sharks are not tendering Nabokov and will go another direction in net. If that is indeed the situation that's a pretty big changeup.

Like who? I agree with everyone else in that nobody will take his contract and IF they do, they aren't going to send back fair trade value because of the contract. Buffalo let him go because they thought he wasn't worth that coin.

Buffalo lets everybody go!! How's that working out for them?? ;)

You guys are missing the point...anything they get back is gravy...he didn't cost them anything to acquire in the first place.

Anaheim, Dallas, and Colorado (off the top of my head) all have space and a need.

We're not missing the point, we're saying they aren't going to get anything back. Nobody wants to be paying a decent defenseman over 7 million a year when he's 35-36 years old. It's just not a good trade for anyone, no matter how much space they have right now.

If the Sharks had Cap room Huet and Campbell would be a good fit to replace Nabby and the retired Rob Blake.

If the Sharks had Cap room Huet and Campbell would be a good fit to replace Nabby and the retired Rob Blake.

That's like trying to replace a Chalupa and Gordita with a stalk of celery and a single slider from White Castle. No way!

(I was trying to use an analogy that would really hit home for you. ;) )

Darius Kasparaitis has retired, after sitting out all of last season in Russia


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what the fuck am I doing wrong with the embed??????

Is the timestamp bug back?!

The cap increase should help the Flyers sign Coburn and Hamhuis...their defense may be the best in the league.

Pronger - Carle
Coburn - Timmonen
Hamhuis - Bartuillis

Pretty strange HOF class - Burns must have pissed a lot of people off to not get the sympathy vote as he's clearly got enough to get in eventually, and both Nieuwendyk and Gilmour have resumes far far superior to Ciccarelli (even before you consider Dino's off ice issues). Not sure I understand either of those decisions.

Man, so much seemed to be happening today in the hockey world, it's really easy to miss that one of the best defensemen to play the game (or at least certainly in this recent era) has now officially retired.

I'll miss you, Scotty. You were a great player for the Ducks, and even better for the Devils before that. A complete winner and total class at all times. In five years (or whatever the wait period is), you will join the NHL Hall of Fame first ballot, and rightfully.

There's a reason why every time some kid comes along who skates smoothly and effortlessly with speed, or who makes great plays or runs great power plays from the point, the scouts say "he could be a young Niedermayer".

Let me ask all Ducks, Devils and plain hockey fans to raise a figurative toast to a terrific player and captain in Scotty Niedermayer.

http://forums.di.fm/images/smilies/food-smiley-004.gif

Nieds was fantastic in the Olympics.....Canada will miss him.

Wow, what the fuck NHL?

The Sabres play 22 back to back games next year. That's half their schedule. Amazing.

Chicago sends Byfuglien, Sopel, Eager and Aliu to Atlanta for 1st and 2nd round picks (both originally from NJ) plus Marty Reasoner and Jeremy Morin.

Great deal as far as I can tell for Chicago. Reasoner is a great 3/4 line center who can log a ton of PK time, win a lot of faceoffs.

Chicago sends Byfuglien, Sopel, Eager and Aliu to Atlanta for 1st and 2nd round picks (both originally from NJ) plus Marty Reasoner and Jeremy Morin.

Great deal as far as I can tell for Chicago. Reasoner is a great 3/4 line center who can log a ton of PK time, win a lot of faceoffs.

I agree. Very good deal for Chicago. Reasoner helps with the depth. Additional first and second round picks will just help Chicago's depth going forward and, if they draft well, will give them young, cheap talent going forward. Jeremy Morin doesn't look too bad either with 80+ points in the OHL last year and a 2nd team All-Star.

Sopel was making far too much money as a 5th defensemen. Eager isn't that hard to replace. Obviously, Byfuglien is the main piece here. He was clutch in the playoffs after a very blah regular season, so his value wasn't likely to be any higher.

I am not sure if this move alone gets Chicago home, but it's a pretty promising start.

Chicago sends Byfuglien, Sopel, Eager and Aliu to Atlanta for 1st and 2nd round picks (both originally from NJ) plus Marty Reasoner and Jeremy Morin.

Great deal as far as I can tell for Chicago. Reasoner is a great 3/4 line center who can log a ton of PK time, win a lot of faceoffs.

And drop their cap number by what, about 4m in the process? Nice.

Wow, what the fuck NHL?

The Sabres play 22 back to back games next year. That's half their schedule. Amazing.

I know. What the hell.

Buffalo is hosting the World Jrs. this year. So I figured that is when the team will do their Western Conference/Coast swing. They do, except for:

Mon., Dec. 27: @ Calgary, 9:00

Tue., Dec. 28: @ Edmonton, 9:00

Sat., Jan. 1: Boston, 5:00

Tue., Jan. 4: @ Colorado, 9:00

Thu., Jan. 6: @ San Jose, 10:30

Sat., Jan. 8: @ Phoenix, 8:00

Yeah, just trying to figure out the money side of it. Byfuglien was a 3.0 cap hit, Sopel coming in at 2.333 while Eager is a RFA (according to NHLnumbers.com his salary last season was 0.965).

Reasoner is a bargain at 1.15

So for less than the cost of giving Eager a minimum RFA bump they replace his roster spot with Reasoner and have an extra 5 millionish to replace the other parts (and a couple of extra draft picks to work with).

Interesting, a lot of the reputable guys on twitter reported the trade, now McKenzie is saying something seems off as the call to make the trade official hasn't been made and the players haven't been notified.

No idea how long these things usually take, but it's not the norm for him to comment like this on deals he's reported in the past.

Wow, what the fuck NHL?

The Sabres play 22 back to back games next year. That's half their schedule. Amazing.

half?

half?

I think he meant 22 back-to-game sets, which would equal 44 games.

Tyler Myers takes home the Calder Trophy.

Tyler Myers takes home the Calder Trophy.

Forgot this was even on tonight, thanks. Turned in just in time to see the part I worked on.

Tyler Myers takes home the Calder Trophy.
WOOT!

Miller takes home the Vezina!

San Jose retains Marleau (4 years $6.9M per) and locks up RFA Pavelski (4 years $4M per)

Johnny Boychuk returns to Boston, 2 years $1.875M per

Shoot.. I wanted Marleau.

San Jose retains Marleau (4 years $6.9M per) and locks up RFA Pavelski (4 years $4M per)

Johnny Boychuk returns to Boston, 2 years $1.875M per

Great news for the B's. ManChuck was very solid with Chara at the end of the year.

Wojtek Wolski, re-signs with Phoenix 2 years, $3.8M per

Apparently Marc Savard said he'd waive his NTC for Toronto, Ottawa and Detroit. If I am Kenny Holland I offer up Fil, Kindl and 21 for now and see if they bite.

Wow, what the fuck NHL?

The Sabres play 22 back to back games next year. That's half their schedule. Amazing.

Saw that.

Cuts down on Miller time quite a bit.
:rant:

why would they trade Savard??

DOLA:

Hats off to Miller / Myers. Nice to see Sabres players with hardware, even if it's not . . . you know, that hardware . . . .

Apparently Marc Savard said he'd waive his NTC for Toronto, Ottawa and Detroit. If I am Kenny Holland I offer up Fil, Kindl and 21 for now and see if they bite.

While Detroit needs more help on the wing than up the middle, Savard at $4 million a year would be very, very nice.

While Detroit needs more help on the wing than up the middle, Savard at $4 million a year would be very, very nice.

Yep, exactly why I say go for it.

why would they trade Savard??

Because of the 3 centers now on the roster, his value is greater than Krejci and Bergeron, especially locked in at $4M for 7 more seasons.

And Boston is assuming they "settle" for Seguin tomorrow night, who could step in at 18.

Savard should consider Pittsburgh, because he'd avoid Matt Cooke's hits all the time then.

Yep, exactly why I say go for it.

I would do it in a heart beat. I like Fil and all, but for as well as he plays sometimes, he just doesn't seem to produce like he should.

Damn youse, DeTox, for putting this pipe dream into my over active imagination plagued mind.

why would they trade Savard??

Because the Bruins are set with younger, cheaper talent at center in Bergeron, Krejci and, presumably, Seguin. They can deal Savard and his contract off to strengthen the blueline and scoring on the wings.

Because the Bruins are set with younger, cheaper talent at center in Bergeron, Krejci and, presumably, Seguin. They can deal Savard and his contract off to strengthen the blueline and scoring on the wings.

Unless they take Hall (it is Hall right?) and then they've strengthened the wings with him and Horton.

Unless they take Hall (it is Hall right?) and then they've strengthened the wings with him and Horton.

Picking 2nd, they have to "settle" for whoever is left.

Unless they are willing to give up something to Edmonton to secure #1.

Honestly, to mean, Hall to BOS and Seguin to EDM makes the most sense need wise. Edmonton has some wingers in Penner and Hemsky, and kids like Eberle coming up.

But to make a comparison (and this is style wise, not a prediction of what the players turn out to be), Hall is in the Ovy category, speedy, goal scoring winger, Seguin is in the Eric Staal category, a real good #1 center. Seguin might turn out to be the better player, but right now, Hall is the sexy name.

Right - i know they have to settle. But it seemed like everyone else was saying they were a given to have Seguin fall to them. Which I'm not sure I agree with. Like you said - Edmonton needs a #1 center more than they need a winger. Guess we'll find out soon.

Just to brag a little bit, this is the part of the show I worked on. I dont have any idea how to embed it in my post but its the Bobby Ryan vs. Ryan Getzlaf sketch. I did the rough cut of this a few months ago and its being specifically mentioned in all the articles about the show which i think is very cool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVJfJAQY-BI&feature=player_embedded

Just to brag a little bit, this is the part of the show I worked on. I dont have any idea how to embed it in my post but its the Bobby Ryan vs. Ryan Getzlaf sketch. I did the rough cut of this a few months ago and its being specifically mentioned in all the articles about the show which i think is very cool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVJfJAQY-BI&feature=player_embedded

Heh...saw that on anaheimducks.com. Hilarious. :D

Way to go!

NHL Draft in an hour! :popcorn:

Just to brag a little bit, this is the part of the show I worked on. I dont have any idea how to embed it in my post but its the Bobby Ryan vs. Ryan Getzlaf sketch. I did the rough cut of this a few months ago and its being specifically mentioned in all the articles about the show which i think is very cool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVJfJAQY-BI&feature=player_embedded

That was GOLD!!!! :p

Well done, chadritt, very funny stuff.

So Hall to Edmonton. Seguin to Boston. I guess that's alright?

Keith Ballard to VAN

Grabner, Bernier and #25 to FLA

Luongo better watch out!! :p

This is the first NHL Draft I've ever watched

Keith Ballard to VAN

Grabner, Bernier and #25 to FLA

Luongo better watch out!! :p

I guess this is all conditional, that the player(s) Florida is targeting at 25 is available.

Top ten draft teams proving why they draft early every year by letting the top 2 d-men on the board slip into the teens.

Top ten draft teams proving why they draft early every year by letting the top 2 d-men on the board slip into the teens.

I'm particularly shocked by the McIlrath pick with Gormley and Fowler available. I don't believe in the upside of McIlrath; while they probably hope they are getting a future Shea Weber, I think he's more along the lines of Matt Carkner.

Great pick by St. Louis with Jaden Schwartz. I was confident he was going to be available at 27 for the Canadiens. Jarmo Kekaläinen proves once again he is one of the top amateur scout in the world.

Burke's interview with TSNs James Dunthie was classic

Dunthie "The Leafs do not pick until #80...blah blah blah...do you still feel good about the Kessel trade?"

Burke "Yes...we looked pretty good in the preseason, and took a chance"

Dunthie "Rumor is you were offered a 1st round pick for a defenseman, but you didn't make the move...choosing to hold onto Kaberle"

Burke "Actually it wasn't for Kaberle"

Dunthie "Who was it for?"

Burke "THAT'S NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!"

Which was strange, since everyone in Toronto already knows it was Schenn.

Hey Sabre fans, what do you think would a fair deal for Kaberle? Would he help Buffalo.

Hamhuis to the Pens....3rd rounder going to Philly

Which was strange, since everyone in Toronto already knows it was Schenn.

Hey Sabre fans, what do you think would a fair deal for Kaberle? Would he help Buffalo.

I'm guessing you're asking what a fair deal would be for the Sabres to do it?

First off, I would love to make a deal for Kaberle. He would give us what we need. However, have you met our GM? Mr. Conservative (Though I do think he does get a little harped too much at times). I don't see Reiger overpaying for Burke. Also, Darcy hates to trade picks (With the expectation of our 2008 first round picks (Myers and Ennis) and Vanek, he hasn't had a great track record in the first round).

Plus, does Toronto really want to trade him an in-division rival?

I'm happy with our picks.

Hamhuis to the Pens....3rd rounder going to Philly

Probably a sign that Gonchar is gone.

Hamhuis to the Pens....3rd rounder going to Philly

Probably a sign that Gonchar is gone.

I hope to God they don't give him $5M+ a year. Of all the guys available, I wanted Michalek, I think he's better than all but Martin defensively, and might end up the cheapest. If it's longer term around $4M, it's a decent deal.

Now, Shero needs to try and move Gonchar's rights to recoup a pick for next year.

Dola

Shero saying he still has interest in having both Hamhuis and Gonchar back next year. I just don't see it fitting under the cap, unless he somehow magically gets Gonchar's hit around 4, and Hamhuis under, by stretching out the deal to 6 years.

Plus, does Toronto really want to trade him an in-division rival?
The Leafs gave the Bruins two firsts, and traded the rights to Mats Sundin to the Habs. They'd definitely be willing to make a deal with the Sabres.

The talk is that the Sabres would need to offer up one of their forwards, like Pominville or even Roy. I don't see how that makes any sense for them.

The Leafs gave the Bruins two firsts, and traded the rights to Mats Sundin to the Habs. They'd definitely be willing to make a deal with the Sabres.

The talk is that the Sabres would need to offer up one of their forwards, like Pominville or even Roy. I don't see how that makes any sense for them.
Pominville is overpaid and Roy is close to overpaid.

The Leafs gave the Bruins two firsts, and traded the rights to Mats Sundin to the Habs. They'd definitely be willing to make a deal with the Sabres.

The talk is that the Sabres would need to offer up one of their forwards, like Pominville or even Roy. I don't see how that makes any sense for them.

Good point about the trades.

I though the Leafs wanted a power forward?
The only guy that really fits that is Stafford, who is lazy.

I would have no problems dealing Pominville or Roy. :) The problem is the Sabres tend to be in love with their own players too much.

Just got in and a chance to review the Ducks draft - on the face of it absolutely unbelievable getting a top 3-5 talent with the 12th and then a top 15-20 talent with the 29th. Wonder what made them drop so far. I think Fowler has the potential to be an absolute star. Sure he's not real physical but that kind of player has been flourishing in the new NHL. I love the pick.

Can't speak for other teams, but as far as Carolina passing on Fowler (or a host of other D-men) at 7, it's an organizational philosophy from GM Jim Rutherford that they almost never take a D-man in the first round. JR says it's because D-men develop much more slowly than forwards and that by the time they're NHL-ready, they're free agents, so it does no good in his opinion to spend a top pick on a player who won't be available for several years, if ever. The fiasco a few years ago with Jack Johnson didn't help, either (he and his father are still plenty reviled in these parts).

All in all, an interesting draft for the Canes. They got a superb scorer in Jeff Skinner with the seventh pick (I'll be delighted if the Zach Parise comparisons work out). They also used their bevy of picks to swing trades for former first-round picks from Edmonton (Riley Nash, drafted 2007) and the Rangers (Bobby Sanguinetti, drafted 2006). This team is going to be very young and very cheap next year.

Can't speak for other teams, but as far as Carolina passing on Fowler (or a host of other D-men) at 7, it's an organizational philosophy from GM Jim Rutherford that they almost never take a D-man in the first round. JR says it's because D-men develop much more slowly than forwards and that by the time they're NHL-ready, they're free agents, so it does no good in his opinion to spend a top pick on a player who won't be available for several years, if ever. The fiasco a few years ago with Jack Johnson didn't help, either (he and his father are still plenty reviled in these parts).

All in all, an interesting draft for the Canes. They got a superb scorer in Jeff Skinner with the seventh pick (I'll be delighted if the Zach Parise comparisons work out). They also used their bevy of picks to swing trades for former first-round picks from Edmonton (Riley Nash, drafted 2007) and the Rangers (Bobby Sanguinetti, drafted 2006). This team is going to be very young and very cheap next year.

I feel the same way about first round defensemen unless they are really special guys who are able to step into the NHL right away...otherwise, wait until later to hope you find a diamond in the rough and spend away during FA.

Riley Nash was a disappointment from the beginning, from the perspective of an Oilers' fan, as we passed on a few current NHLers to draft him and even gave up a few picks to move up to get him. While essentially running on the spot at Cornell it sounds like he'll still be a couple of years away from being "useful" but according to rumours about him not signing a deal with the Oilers unless is was a one-way deal he doesn't seem to think so. Those rumours could have also been him playing hardball with the Oilers, who supposedly weren't in contact with him as much as he would have liked. Too bad things didn't workout in Edmonton for him but at the same time I'm glad we got "something" for him.

As for our draft...well, Hall and Pitlick are players we can definitely get excited about. The rest of the draft is full of big, physical players who do have some skill as well.

Finally, a good day to be an Oilers' fan...it's been WAY too long!!

So I've read both Thomas and Savard have waived their NTCs. While I'd love to unload Timmy's contract, I'm still a little wary of moving Savvy's cap friendly deal. The problem becomes the glut of NHL caliber Centers the Bruins now have. Do we want Bergeron on the RW, or do we start Seguin at the wing to start his career (I don't for a second buy-in to that dumbass Pierre McGuirre's "he's not NHL ready" comment from the draft)?

I'm sure the roster will be a little different at the beginning of the season but I do like the offensive improvements so far, adding Seguin and Horton.

It's been the consensus that Seguin would likely spend most, if not all, next season in the OHL. This isn't PM talking nonsense...not this time, at least.

Having Semin and Ovechkin really helped the Caps in the raft. They got two highly rated Russians who are dying to play for the Caps.

Now if they could only find a second line center.

It's been the consensus that Seguin would likely spend most, if not all, next season in the OHL. This isn't PM talking nonsense...not this time, at least.

Huh, by all accounts I've read he was going to jump right into an NHL team. Then again, I've mostly been reading various B's boards.

Riley Nash was a disappointment from the beginning, from the perspective of an Oilers' fan, as we passed on a few current NHLers to draft him and even gave up a few picks to move up to get him. While essentially running on the spot at Cornell it sounds like he'll still be a couple of years away from being "useful" but according to rumours about him not signing a deal with the Oilers unless is was a one-way deal he doesn't seem to think so. Those rumours could have also been him playing hardball with the Oilers, who supposedly weren't in contact with him as much as he would have liked. Too bad things didn't workout in Edmonton for him but at the same time I'm glad we got "something" for him.

Yeah, I've read that about Nash, as well. He's not going to get a one-way deal from Carolina right now if that's truly what he wants. The Canes are trying to stay near the cap floor this year to attract a new minority investor to replace a deceased one. I also fear Karmanos may get pulled into some kind of mess created by his interactions with Detroit's ex-con-ex-mayor Kwame Kilpatrick over the years, so that minority investor may need to be a majority investor at some point.

Besides, the Canes are pretty well set in the middle if any place on ice with Staal and Sutter holding down the first two center spots and then Brind'Amour likely (if not bought out) to be #4, leaving only a #3 center slot and that's likely to be one of the AHLers we brought up in bunches last year.

Blues got goaltender. We need one. But is Halak a quality goaltender.

Pominville is overpaid and Roy is close to overpaid.
Sure. But Kaberle will be too after this final year of his contract expires.

WHAT? He won 2 playoff series by his freaking self. Caps/Pens both dominated play against Montreal for most of the games and yet Halak was just unbeatable.

Hopefully that continues next season, because on the Blues, he will need to be like that each and every night. ;)

So I have to take a break from figuring out why the Sabres would want to trade a good forward for Tomas Kaberle, because suddenly everyone in hockey is talking about something even dumber.

Here's the summary: Apparently the Boston Bruins are going to trade Marc Savard to the Leafs for next to nothing. The reasoning goes that they need cap relief, have too many centers, and are worried about his concussion. And since Savard has an NTC and wants to go to Toronto the Bruins will just have to send him there for whatever table scraps Biran Burke wants to toss their way.

Anyone see any problems with that scenario?

Here's a few to get you started:
- You have cap problems, so you're going to trade an all-star center with 90-point potential with a $4M cap hit? That's almost third-line money.
- You're worried that Savard is injury-prone due to concussions, so you're going to trade him to create more playing time for Patrice Bergeron?
- If you absolutely have to trade the guy, you're going to move him to Toronto? Where he would become the first line center and reunite with Phil Kessel? Where he'd instantly solve the Leafs greatest offseason need and probably make them a playoff contender? And you're going to do this even though you own the Leafs first round pick next year?

Gah!

You can't even blame this on those wacky Toronto media types, because most of this stuff is coming out of Boston. I'm telling you right now, if the Leafs get Savard in exchange for Nik Kulmin or some other third-line kid, I'll be doing naked cartwheels down Bank street.

Can anyone else explain this to me?

Yeah the Blues can kill a goalie.
And I always wonder why a hockey team would trade a great netminder.

Because they had to trade one and Price is younger and has a higher upside (plus I have a feeling there is some pride involved, Price was a high first round pick and is supposed to be the savior of the franchise).

Halak is very very good and if he actually plays in STL next year, it's got the potential to be one of those trades we look back at in 5 years and think WTF

Much more important to get a legit #1 D before going after a #2 C. I like Eric Belanger as a #2 C anyway.

Get someone in there so limp-wristed Mikey can take 2nd pair ice time and focus solely on being a PP QB since that's the only thing the dirtbag does well anyways.

#1 D isn't going to be fixed as it would reduce ice time for one of Carlson/Alzner which I don't think GM will do. It's also going to cost a lot more to fix the #1 D than the #2 C.

Boy that Savard guy would look good rocking the red.

I can't see the Bruins moving Savard unless they get a quality defenseman and a prospect in return.

Belanger a #2 center? Did he significantly upgrade his game since he left LA? I mean, I always liked Belanger, but it would take more than just slight development for him to be a good #2 on a championship contender. I do think he is a terrific playoff performer, and in the postseason, he can probably hold down a #2 C spot, especially with an amazing top line like the Caps have, and with how the playoffs slow down and get tougher. In the regular season, though, I think he's a subpar #2 C. He should remain the very good #3 C he's generally been throughout his career.

Just got in and a chance to review the Ducks draft - on the face of it absolutely unbelievable getting a top 3-5 talent with the 12th and then a top 15-20 talent with the 29th. Wonder what made them drop so far. I think Fowler has the potential to be an absolute star. Sure he's not real physical but that kind of player has been flourishing in the new NHL. I love the pick.

Phenomenal draft for the Ducks. Got a good looking prospect, a guy rated by some to be a first round talent, with their second round pick, too.

There's some talk Fowler could make the jump right away, but I really hope not. Would rather he spend another year in juniors or hone his game in Syracuse and come up in 2011.

Etem, love what happened when he was drafted. Lifelong Kings fan. It was well known Kings fans were praying the Kings would take him. The Kings had their chance at #18 and passed for another guy. Etem kept dropping (for whatever reason). It gets to the Ducks at #29 and they say, "What have we here?" and they draft him. Etem comes up and the Kings-heavy crowd boos him (not surprisingly).

After being drafted, Etem's asked about the booing by his fellow Kings fans, and he says something along the lines of, "Fans will be fans; that's okay, because now I am a Ducks fan." :D

Great on faceoffs, works hard on both ends of the ice, consistent from game to game. He's the antithesis of the star players on the team and would be a fantastic influence on Nicky Backstrom.

Agreed. Sounds like the perfect #3. ;)

Seriously, I'm actually a big fan of Belanger's, even as a Ducks fan viewing a former King. I just don't see him as a natural fit at #2. You really need two dangerous scoring lines to get far in the NHL playoffs nowadays, and that just doesn't fit in my mind with Belanger at the center. The advantage of having Belanger is when he's at the #3, because while he's not a terrific #2, he's a better than average scorer as a #3, is a strong defensive forward and, like you said, he gives out top effort all the time and at both ends every night, exactly what you want from your shutdown line.

Belanger scored seven points in twenty-four games with the Caps.He wasn't always playing #2 C, but they need more scoring out of that position.

I'll be doing naked cartwheels down Bank street.

Can anyone else explain this to me?

I imagine it will be the result of too much alcohol... wait, that's not what you were trying to have explained? :D

SI

Can anyone else explain this to me?

I have been thinking about this and it doesn't make sense to me. Assuming he can stay healthy, which has been a bit of an issue for Savard, he should be good for 70-90+ points. You're not going to beat that kind of production for a $4 million per year cap hit. Just look at Tomas Plekanec. He's hit 70 points (exactly) just once in his career and just signed a 6 yr/$30 million contract. Other "comparable" guys, like Gionta and Gomez (they are small, skilled forwards) have $5 million and $7.3 million cap hits respectively.

Just looking around at other guys who have a $4-$5 million cap hit, Riberio, Pomniville, Connoly, Michalek, Pierre-March Bouchard, Rolston, Penner, Horcoff, Handzus, Malone, Legwand, Erat, Langkow, Savard is a flatout bargain in terms of cap space (I understand his actual salary over the next few years is significantly higher).

I really think one of the keys to being a successful team in the "cap era" is having players who can out-play their contracts. If he stays healthy, Savard is very likely going to out-play that $4 million contract each and every year. I don't see why you would trade an asset like that, especially if you were worried about cap space.

One thing to note is that, despite being pretty productive throughout his career, Savard has moved around a lot, going from Calgary to Atlanta to Boston. I am sure there were legit reasons for each move, but perhaps there's just something about the guy that teams get tired of after a while.

One thing to note is that, despite being pretty productive throughout his career, Savard has moved around a lot, going from Calgary to Atlanta to Boston. I am sure there were legit reasons for each move, but perhaps there's just something about the guy that teams get tired of after a while.

He used to play road hockey in my driveway with my little brother and I when they were 13 or 14...he was a certifiable douche back then and I don't think much has changed over the years as I've run into him here and there a few times.

Let's just say that I'm never surprised to hear he's been traded/signed with a new team.

I have been thinking about this and it doesn't make sense to me. Assuming he can stay healthy, which has been a bit of an issue for Savard, he should be good for 70-90+ points. You're not going to beat that kind of production for a $4 million per year cap hit. Just look at Tomas Plekanec. He's hit 70 points (exactly) just once in his career and just signed a 6 yr/$30 million contract. Other "comparable" guys, like Gionta and Gomez (they are small, skilled forwards) have $5 million and $7.3 million cap hits respectively.

Just looking around at other guys who have a $4-$5 million cap hit, Riberio, Pomniville, Connoly, Michalek, Pierre-March Bouchard, Rolston, Penner, Horcoff, Handzus, Malone, Legwand, Erat, Langkow, Savard is a flatout bargain in terms of cap space (I understand his actual salary over the next few years is significantly higher).

I really think one of the keys to being a successful team in the "cap era" is having players who can out-play their contracts. If he stays healthy, Savard is very likely going to out-play that $4 million contract each and every year. I don't see why you would trade an asset like that, especially if you were worried about cap space.

One thing to note is that, despite being pretty productive throughout his career, Savard has moved around a lot, going from Calgary to Atlanta to Boston. I am sure there were legit reasons for each move, but perhaps there's just something about the guy that teams get tired of after a while.

The latest bit of news I've heard is that this whole situation is due to some family issues with his kids and/or ex-wife? I didn't look into the details, but this makes a lot more sense for both sides. Why would the B's want to move his cap-friendly deal and why would Marc be willing to waive his NTC 4 months after signing the new extension?

So I have to take a break from figuring out why the Sabres would want to trade a good forward for Tomas Kaberle, because suddenly everyone in hockey is talking about something even dumber.


We have a good forward (Besides Vanek)? :)

We have a good forward (Besides Vanek)? :)
Compared to the Leafs you do.

I really think one of the keys to being a successful team in the "cap era" is having players who can out-play their contracts. If he stays healthy, Savard is very likely going to out-play that $4 million contract each and every year. I don't see why you would trade an asset like that, especially if you were worried about cap space.
Right. And I honestly think you could make a case that (obviously not counting entry-level deals), Savard has the best contract in terms of cap hit in the entire league.

He makes a few hundred thousand more than Matt freaking Stajan.

He used to play road hockey in my driveway with my little brother and I when they were 13 or 14...he was a certifiable douche back then and I don't think much has changed over the years as I've run into him here and there a few times.

Let's just say that I'm never surprised to hear he's been traded/signed with a new team.

lol awesome

Right. And I honestly think you could make a case that (obviously not counting entry-level deals), Savard has the best contract in terms of cap hit in the entire league.

He makes a few hundred thousand more than Matt freaking Stajan.

Based on my quick review of various contracts on Cap Geek, you're right.

Though, you will be regretting the deal when johnnyshaka and his little brother show up, kick his ass and end up putting him on IR for the rest of the year.

Based on my quick review of various contracts on Cap Geek, you're right.

Though, you will be regretting the deal when johnnyshaka and his little brother show up, kick his ass and end up putting him on IR for the rest of the year.

I lol'd.

Based on my quick review of various contracts on Cap Geek, you're right.

Though, you will be regretting the deal when johnnyshaka and his little brother show up, kick his ass and end up putting him on IR for the rest of the year.

lol...don't worry, our rock 'em sock 'em road hockey days are long gone!

We have a good forward (Besides Vanek)? :)

No shit, we also have a glut of forwards due to Darcy's rose colored glasses of always trying to keep homegrown forwards. I'd rather have an overpaid D vs an overpaid F at this point.

Buyout time

OTT- Cheechoo
PHX - Nokelainen, Vandermeer
CGY - Kotalik

No shit, we also have a glut of forwards due to Darcy's rose colored glasses of always trying to keep homegrown forwards. I'd rather have an overpaid D vs an overpaid F at this point.

:)

I think Vanek will rebound this year. He started to turn it on late in the year and in the playoffs before he got injured. I just think he needs to relax and not be so hard on himself. Of course, I wonder now if playing with TC, Stafford, Roy, and Pommers is what is hurting him.

I actually wouldn't mind seeing Ennis and Vanek on the same line next year. Ennis seems like a guy who will work hard, not be selfish, is quite shifty, and has the play-making skills to set up Vanek.

:)

I think Vanek will rebound this year. He started to turn it on late in the year and in the playoffs before he got injured. I just think he needs to relax and not be so hard on himself. Of course, I wonder now if playing with TC, Stafford, Roy, and Pommers is what is hurting him.

I actually wouldn't mind seeing Ennis and Vanek on the same line next year. Ennis seems like a guy who will work hard, not be selfish, is quite shifty, and has the play-making skills to set up Vanek.

Yeah I'm not down on Vanek, he's streaky as most goal scorers are.

Darcy fucked the team over with his idiotic RFA screwup a few years back and is still paying for it. I think Roy > Pomminville and def think we need to shed some forward salary and put it into the defense. Pomminville is way overpaid.

Ah those wacky Edmonton Oilers.

They put Patrick O'Sullivan, Robert Nilsson and Ethan Moreau on waivers today, very likely so they can start the buy out process.

Yes, you read that right, their captain, Ethan Moreau, will be bought out.

God I hope they get this ship going in the right direction (and hopefully this is part of that process) but wow does that just seem...ridiculous to have to do something like that.

Yeah I'm not down on Vanek, he's streaky as most goal scorers are.

Darcy fucked the team over with his idiotic RFA screwup a few years back and is still paying for it. I think Roy > Pomminville and def think we need to shed some forward salary and put it into the defense. Pomminville is way overpaid.

I do miss Briere.

Pominville has 4 years left at $5 million a year. Not an easy contract to move.

Move TC, Stafford (both have one year left), and Roy. Rebuild around Vanek, Hecht, and Pommers. Insert Ennis into one of top 6 lines. Get a big power forward and someone with a scoring touch.

For the defense, you got Myers, Montador, and Rivet (who hope his shoulder surgery helps him regain his game). I'm guessing Sekera and Butler will assume the spots by Lydman and Tallinder. Hopefully we bring in a sixth defenseman who can quarterback the powerplay and has a little bit of physical side to them.

I wonder if Lalime will be back.

I do miss Briere.

Pominville has 4 years left at $5 million a year. Not an easy contract to move.

Move TC, Stafford (both have one year left), and Roy. Rebuild around Vanek, Hecht, and Pommers. Insert Ennis into one of top 6 lines. Get a big power forward and someone with a scoring touch.

For the defense, you got Myers, Montador, and Rivet (who hope his shoulder surgery helps him regain his game). I'm guessing Sekera and Butler will assume the spots by Lydman and Tallinder. Hopefully we bring in a sixth defenseman who can quarterback the powerplay and has a little bit of physical side to them.
Hecht isn't getting any younger, lord knows they won't buyout Pomminville (tho they should)... the 1st thing I do when starting a career in NHL 10 is trade Pomminville to free up space. I'd rather them trade Pomminville for peanuts and keep Roy as I think we'll get more production from Roy. Yeah, we'll see what they do at D but as I said, they are kinda tied up salary wise at forward and it's not like they are getting their money's worth there...

Hecht isn't getting any younger, lord knows they won't buyout Pomminville (tho they should)... the 1st thing I do when starting a career in NHL 10 is trade Pomminville to free up space. I'd rather them trade Pomminville for peanuts and keep Roy as I think we'll get more production from Roy. Yeah, we'll see what they do at D but as I said, they are kinda tied up salary wise at forward and it's not like they are getting their money's worth there...

Wouldn't the impact of buying out Pommers hit the cap for 8 years?

Wouldn't the impact of buying out Pommers hit the cap for 8 years?
I don't know all the ins and outs of the buyouts since I don't expect the Sabres to ever buy anyone out. Like I said, I'd be happy with them trading him for a low pick even to just clear up the cap space.

I don't know all the ins and outs of the buyouts since I don't expect the Sabres to ever buy anyone out. Like I said, I'd be happy with them trading him for a low pick even to just clear up the cap space.

Me too. I just don't see anyone biting. :)

Buyout time

OTT- Cheechoo
PHX - Nokelainen, Vandermeer
CGY - Kotalik

Ah those wacky Edmonton Oilers.

They put Patrick O'Sullivan, Robert Nilsson and Ethan Moreau on waivers today, very likely so they can start the buy out process.

Yes, you read that right, their captain, Ethan Moreau, will be bought out.

God I hope they get this ship going in the right direction (and hopefully this is part of that process) but wow does that just seem...ridiculous to have to do something like that.

Rangers match the Oilers 3:

Brashear, Voros, Rissmiller

And Tampa waives Fedoruk

Rangers match the Oilers 3:

Brashear, Voros, Rissmiller

And Tampa waives Fedoruk

I thought about Fedoruk last week.

I was thinking that he might a decent recepient of the 5th annual "Brad Norton Award." Prior winners, of course, being the namesake of the award, Brad Norton (06-07), Aaron Downey (07-08), Darren McCarty (08-09) and Brad May (09-10). Fedoruk always seemed to have just a wee bit more offensive upside than most other available options.

I thought about Fedoruk last week.

I was thinking that he might a decent recepient of the 5th annual "Brad Norton Award." Prior winners, of course, being the namesake of the award, Brad Norton (06-07), Aaron Downey (07-08), Darren McCarty (08-09) and Brad May (09-10). Fedoruk always seemed to have just a wee bit more offensive upside than most other available options.

Wasn't he skating on the 2nd line in Anaheim a few years back, with Selanne?

And is there any doubt Burke is on the phone with his agent right now?

Wasn't he skating on the 2nd line in Anaheim a few years back, with Selanne?

And is there any doubt Burke is on the phone with his agent right now?

He might have been. I think Burke traded a second round pick for him a few years back.

Modano's HOF career with the Stars is over.

GM Joe Nieuwendyk: Dallas Stars will not offer contract to Mike Modano - ESPN Dallas (http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nhl/news/story?id=5339262)

And is there any doubt Burke is on the phone with his agent right now?
I doubt it. The Leafs just dealt for Mike Brown to fill the secondary enforcer role. And I doubt anyone wants to see Fedoruk on a line with Colton Orr, who almost killed him the last time they crossed paths.

He might have been. I think Burke traded a second round pick for him a few years back.

Yes, I believe it was a second round pick (to the Rangers, I believe, I forget).

Fedoruk bounced around on the lines some. He came in looking like an enforcer, and ended up playing a little more than that. He might have done some second line time, maybe even with Selanne as an experiment, but at that time, Selanne and MacDonald were virtually inseparable on a line, and they usually needed a third speed guy to pair up with the two, which Fedoruk definitely was not. I think it was usually Niedermayer The Lesser or Kunitz.

The only time Fedoruk would have found himself on a line with some of the better offensive players was if Carlyle was trying to mix things up to get the offense going, which is something he actually does a lot.

I doubt it. The Leafs just dealt for Mike Brown to fill the secondary enforcer role. And I doubt anyone wants to see Fedoruk on a line with Colton Orr, who almost killed him the last time they crossed paths.

Is that what the Leafs are intending for Mike Brown?

While he is tough enough to handle that role, he actually did a respectable job as a third line checker. I would think he would be more useful to the Leafs there, and not necessarily contribute as a labelled enforcer, but just as another tough guy to mix it up if needed (on top of doing his third line work).

Fedoruk's career as an enforcer ended when he got his face broken for the second time. He's got steel plates in there now that basically mean he can't fight at all. More power to him that he's reinvented himself as an energy/checking guy, but I wouldn't want him on my team.

As for Brown, he's not a great fighter by any means. I don't think he fits the enforcer label at all, even as a secondary option. What he will do is draw some penalties and give you heart and soul every night. I'm pretty sad to see him go as he really stepped up his game last year and was probably the Ducks best PK option most nights. Not sure I would have dealt him for a 5th. Good deal for Toronto IMO.

The off-season overhaul in Montreal continues as the team announced Tuesday that they have acquired forward Dustin Boyd, goaltender Dan Ellis and future considerations from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Sergei Kostitsyn and future considerations.

I am pissed because I wanted the Flyers to sign Ellis.

So you trade away one free agent goaltender who will want a big raise for cents on the dollar because you want to free up playing time for your big prospect, and then you trade for another free agent goaltender who will want a raise and will be expecting just as much playing time?

What am I missing here?

They did take Scott Gomez's albatross of a contract off of the Rangers last year...

The off-season overhaul in Montreal continues as the team announced Tuesday that they have acquired forward Dustin Boyd, goaltender Dan Ellis and future considerations from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Sergei Kostitsyn and future considerations.

I am pissed because I wanted the Flyers to sign Ellis.

I think both Ellis and Boyd are pending UFAs, unless they've agreed to deals already?

So he's still available...same as Dan Hamhuis will be available in 2 days.

Anybody here somewhat familiar with Jim Vandermeer? Being reported that the Oilers just traded Patrick O'Sullivan for him (avoiding having to buy out POS).

And this just minutes after finding out Columbus claimed Moreau off waivers so it's starting to look like the Oilers may be getting very lucky in not having to do much in the way of buy outs.

Anybody here somewhat familiar with Jim Vandermeer? Being reported that the Oilers just traded Patrick O'Sullivan for him (avoiding having to buy out POS).

According to Pierre LeBrun:

But Oilers GM Steve Tambellini told us he was keeping Vandermeer and not buying him out. "We need his physical presence," Tambellini said of Vandermeer, who has one more year left at $2.3 million.

I am a little familiar with Vandemeer. He's a tough guy defensemen who is a decent, but well over paid, see the $2.3 million above, for someone who generally just sees spot duty.

More waiver fun:

NJ: Pandolfo, Peters
CGY: Dawes
COL: Preissing

And signing fun:

NJ: Clarkson, 3 years $8M ($2.66M per)
PHI: Leighton, 2 years $3.1M ($1.55M per)


Also rumored, Rod Brind'amour will announce his retirement

That's a lot of money for Clarkson and a very reasonable price for Leighton, even if he does go back to backup obscurity.

Where do you think Rick Tabaracci will start?

Where do you think Rick Tabaracci will start?

Winnipeg.

That's a lot of money for Clarkson and a very reasonable price for Leighton, even if he does go back to backup obscurity.

Agree, I think Clarkson could turn into a 20 goal/45-50 pt/100 PIM guy, but he's not there yet, so it's overpayment now.

But, in terms of what those guys get paid...Ryan Malone did that (short of the 100 PIM) for 2 seasons in Pittsburgh, and got $4.3M long term from TB...that isn't awful if he grows into that role.

Leighton...I just don't understand because Boucher is signed for next year too. So, are they going with the same pair? Need insight from Sak

Winnipeg.

I... don't know what to say.

Leighton...I just don't understand because Boucher is signed for next year too. So, are they going with the same pair? Need insight from Sak

I think they may put Boucher in the minors and go after a goalie...the net loss there is like 500k and go after a mid-range defenseman. If they don't get the goalie they want they will use the money to go after another expensive d-man. Just my guesses.

More waiver fun:

NJ: Pandolfo, Peters
CGY: Dawes
COL: Preissing

And signing fun:

NJ: Clarkson, 3 years $8M ($2.66M per)
PHI: Leighton, 2 years $3.1M ($1.55M per)


Also rumored, Rod Brind'amour will announce his retirement

the rumored Preissing buyout doesn't make much sense. They save $900 grand...but now instead of counting zero against the cap in the AHL for his final year, he counts $900,000 this year AND next year

And this just minutes after finding out Columbus claimed Moreau off waivers so it's starting to look like the Oilers may be getting very lucky in not having to do much in the way of buy outs.

The Jackets pick up a former Oiler? Color me shocked.

Actually, I'm not too upset about the deal. The team lacked leadership last season and Moreau would have likely picked up a similar deal in FA, but with 2 more years on the deal. Moreau, Clark and Pahlsson should form a solid checking line, something Hitch didn't utilize last season at all.

Versteeg to Leafs

Versteeg and Bill Sweat (who I think needs a QO or becomes a UFA)

for

Stalberg + 2 prospects

Blackhawks have loaded up on draft picks and prospects, I guess you can't really ask for much more.

I love you Dale Tallon, but at the same time, I hate you.

Ducks cut ties with 2007 1st rounder Logan MacMillan, sending him to the Flames for Jason Jaffrey who seems like a career AHL'er. Before this year we've done such a bad job drafting it's unbelievable (and both guys we got this year fell right into our laps, not much credit there either)

Also rumored, Rod Brind'amour will announce his retirement

Yep, Brind'Amour retired, though the Canes actually bought him out first. Since Carolina is budgeting somewhere around the cap floor, they actually benefited from the "over 35" rule about the cap hit staying on the books. In this way, they can keep the cap hit to reach the cap floor, reduce actual cash payout (from $3 million to $2 million) and spread it over two years, which improves the bottom line, thus making the team more attractive to anyone wanting to buy the minority interest Karmanos inherited and is now trying to sell.

Even so, Brind'Amour is probably going to make back the million he lost for getting bought out anyway. He's expected to move into the Hurricane Retirement Village, AKA the front office. I'm sure he thought about coming back, but he'd have been making minimal money for a couple of years at best. Given he's about to re-marry and he's got some pretty firm roots planted here, he probably decided it wasn't worth living out of a suitcase for that long, as much as it killed him to decide to quit.

Rampant wishful thinking among some Carolina fans is that they think they have a shot at prying Marc Staal (either through trade or an outright concession of picks since Marc is a RFA) from the Rangers given the difficulties going on there. I'm thinking Karmanos wants to pocket the money he's saving on Brind'Amour rather than turn around and spend it.

I'm thinking Karmanos wants to pocket the money he's saving on Brind'Amour rather than turn around and spend it.

Cheap bastard. Do fans in Carolina like Karmanos? He's still public enemy #1 in these parts.

Per Bob McKenzie, Hawks cap number to be around $55.2M, $4.2M below the rest of the league due to bonus carryover from last season that will count against this years number.

So, even after moving Versteeg, and still needing to sign Niemi and Hjalmarrson, they'll need to move one more contract...Ladd?

Ducks cut ties with 2007 1st rounder Logan MacMillan, sending him to the Flames for Jason Jaffrey who seems like a career AHL'er. Before this year we've done such a bad job drafting it's unbelievable (and both guys we got this year fell right into our laps, not much credit there either)

To be fair, we still have a lot of picks from the 2008-09 drafts that are developing/on the way. We may still have some good players there. And it was dumb to trade away Tangredi in the Whitney deal to the Pens; he could be a good one.

Back to the trade:

Can anyone explain this deal to me? I am trying to understand what possible upside is here for the Ducks.

MacMillan hasn't blossomed, true. And he got a DUI last year, which got him sent away from the Ducks' Bakersfield ECHL affiliate to one of their AHL loaner spots.

But we're still talking about a 20-year-old forward who had the potential and physical skills to be drafted 19th overall in the draft. And a player who costs the Ducks virtually nothing right now. The worst that can happen is he takes a minor league roster spot for a few more years and than you cut him as a guy who will never develop. The "will never develop" line is certainly not at the age of 20. This kid still has plenty of time to fulfill his potential.

Now, if we were getting back a guy who could really help us, then it makes sense. But we're talking about a 29-year-old career AHLer. Sure, he led his AHL team in scoring last year, but who we kidding? This guy, at best, is possible fourth line roster filler.

Only possibility I can think is that the Ducks must really see something in Jaffrey. And whatever they see, the Flames must see it, too, because if they didn't, no way would they have been able to negotiate with the Ducks with a straight face and ask for a former first rounder.

So, best case scenario: Jaffrey is some very late bloomer who actually has some near term value beyond roster filler.

Worst case scenario: The Ducks oddly give up way too soon on a former first round pick. That probably would say more about MacMillan--assuming the Ducks' FO haven't lost their faculties, it must be that they absolutely already believe that MacMillan is near worthless and will never be the player he was projected to be. That seems to be an awful harsh judgment on a 20 year old prospect. Makes me wonder just how bad the kid was, or if he has not learned from his DUI experience, or what.

Andrei Meszaros (D) from TB to Philly for a 2nd round pick (2012).

Marty Biron (G) signs with the Rangers.

Andrei Meszaros (D) from TB to Philly for a 2nd round pick (2012).

The Flyers get nervous if they have a 2nd round pick in the not too distant future, and must trade it.

Wonder what this means for Coburn? Meszaros comes with a ridiculous $4M cap hit, for 4 more seasons.

The Flyers get nervous if they have a 2nd round pick in the not too distant future, and must trade it.

Wonder what this means for Coburn? Meszaros comes with a ridiculous $4M cap hit, for 4 more seasons.

The word's going to spread quickly... don't make deals with Yzerman. He's better than you. He's better than everyone.

There's no shame in this, Paul Holmgren. You are just the first of many.

Gonchar to Ottawa, no idea on term/$ yet

Edit: $16.5M over 3 years with NTC

Gonchar signs with the Senators, 5.5mil per

DOLA - sounds like 5.5 for 3 years. Not too bad if they did avoid giving him the 4th year

DOLA - sounds like 5.5 for 3 years. Not too bad if they did avoid giving him the 4th year

Sens fans will love him that first season...and hate him by that last season. He hasn't been "right" since the knee-on-knee from Ovy in round 2 last playoffs. The NTC + the over-35 contract will be killer.

Apparently same deal was on the table from the Pens but they didn't want to give him the third year

Apparently same deal was on the table from the Pens but they didn't want to give him the third year

Yeah, this was reported over the last 2 weeks here, Shero was dead set on 2 years, Gonchar wanted a 3rd. Good luck Sarge, thanks for the memories.

Tanguay back to Calgary were his decline began...

Ok so I have been a casual hockey fan for years, but simply don't get to watch much or read much about it down here in Louisiana. I really started watching a lot again late this season / the playoffs - and now want to really get into it and learn the ins and outs. Can someone help me understand the salary cap and contract situations, and just some other random questions

I got this from NHL.com

FREE AGENT CLASSIFICATIONS
Group 2 - Subject to compensation and right to match

The players listed below have been tendered a qualifying offer by their respective Clubs and are subject to draft-choice compensation and right to match. The draft choice compensation scale is based on compensation offered by the new Club:

OFFER
COMPENSATION
$1,020,348 or below None
Over $1,020,348 to $1,545,981
Third-round choice
Over $1,545,981 to $3,091,963 Second-round choice
Over $3,091,963 to $4,637,944 First-round and third-round choice
Over $4,637,944 to $6,183,925 First-round, second-round and third-round choice
Over $6,183,925 to $7,729,907 Two first-round choices, one second- and one third-round choice
Over $7,729,907 Four first-round choices


Group 3 - Unrestricted Free Agents

The following players have qualified for Group 3 Free Agency (age 27 or older or with at least seven Accrued Seasons) and are Unrestricted Free Agents.

Group 6 - Unrestricted Free Agents

The following players qualify for unrestricted free agency, having met the requirements for Group 6 free agency. These players, whose contracts have expired, are age 25 or older, have completed three or more professional seasons, and (i) in the case of a player other than a goaltender, have played less than 80 NHL games (regular-season and playoff), or (ii) in the case of a goaltender, have played less than 28 NHL games (regular-season and playoff).

Unrestricted Free Agents

The following players were not tendered a qualifying offer and are therefore Unrestricted Free Agents not subject to a right t

So what is the difference between a group 3, group 6, and Unrestricted free agent? Also what is the "over 35 contract" I've seen mentioned a few times?

How much is the cap this year?

What should a team expect to pay for a star, a good 1st line guy, good 2nd line guy, roster fillers, goalies.

When drafting a player in the first round how long do they normally spend in the minors before moving up and making an impact (aside from the true superstars).

How long does a goalie normally need?

What team should I follow? I grew up as a black hawks fan (Had a Jeremy Roenick jersey when I was like 10)... Geographically I am closest to Dallas but being a Saints fan I refuse to pull for Dallas teams. It'd be easier for me to follow the sport more learn the ins and outs of a roster if I had a true team to pull for.

Coburn $3.2M for 2 years, back with Philly

Philly with a $22M+ defense...in front of $2M in goalies

Ok so I have been a casual hockey fan for years, but simply don't get to watch much or read much about it down here in Louisiana. I really started watching a lot again late this season / the playoffs - and now want to really get into it and learn the ins and outs. Can someone help me understand the salary cap and contract situations, and just some other random questions

I got this from NHL.com



So what is the difference between a group 3, group 6, and Unrestricted free agent? Also what is the "over 35 contract" I've seen mentioned a few times?

How much is the cap this year?

What should a team expect to pay for a star, a good 1st line guy, good 2nd line guy, roster fillers, goalies.

When drafting a player in the first round how long do they normally spend in the minors before moving up and making an impact (aside from the true superstars).

How long does a goalie normally need?

What team should I follow? I grew up as a black hawks fan (Had a Jeremy Roenick jersey when I was like 10)... Geographically I am closest to Dallas but being a Saints fan I refuse to pull for Dallas teams. It'd be easier for me to follow the sport more learn the ins and outs of a roster if I had a true team to pull for.

I think the different groups are just different ways to get to free agency. No real difference once FA begins.

An over 35 player's cap hit is guaranteed for the length of the contact, even if he retires. I guess it's supposed to close a loophole where you give an older guy a ridiculously long contract, and then having him retire a couple of years into it and avoid the cap hit for the rest?

Flyers send a 2nd round pick to Tampa for the rights to Andrej Meszaros. Sign him - 4 years, $4M per.

Rumor is Paul Martin may be headed to Pittsburgh. Excellent move for both parties if true.

Ok so I have been a casual hockey fan for years, but simply don't get to watch much or read much about it down here in Louisiana. I really started watching a lot again late this season / the playoffs - and now want to really get into it and learn the ins and outs. Can someone help me understand the salary cap and contract situations, and just some other random questions

I got this from NHL.com



So what is the difference between a group 3, group 6, and Unrestricted free agent? Also what is the "over 35 contract" I've seen mentioned a few times?
Over 35 contract is, as it sounds, the player is age 35 or older when signing the deal. This deal counts against the cap regardless of the player retiring, going on long term IR, etc.

Group 3's are the "main" group of FA, who have been in the league awhile.

Group 6's are typically guys who were not drafted, therefore got a later start, or drafted players who stagnated in the minors, but with enough callups to get the 3 accrued seasons, but under the 80 games.

How much is the cap this year? $59.4M

What should a team expect to pay for a star, a good 1st line guy, good 2nd line guy, roster fillers, goalies.
Star, $7M+. Good first liner, around $5-6M. Good 2nd liner, $4M. Roster filler (truly filler) no more than $750K. Top goalies, $6M+, solid goalies around $4M+

When drafting a player in the first round how long do they normally spend in the minors before moving up and making an impact (aside from the true superstars). Anywhere from 2-4 years, depending on a teams needs, how he progresses, and how a team treats their prospects (Detroit, for example, tends to wait longer, rather than rush)

How long does a goalie normally need? Probably 2 or 3 seasons. Goalie and forward, practical wisdom says, ready sooner than D

What team should I follow? I grew up as a black hawks fan (Had a Jeremy Roenick jersey when I was like 10)... Geographically I am closest to Dallas but being a Saints fan I refuse to pull for Dallas teams. It'd be easier for me to follow the sport more learn the ins and outs of a roster if I had a true team to pull for. Biased, I'll say the Pens.

Good upcoming teams, where you could catch on now and enjoy, Avs and possibly Coyotes.

Won't lie, Wings getting a true enforcer is really unnecessary but the rumors are sort of out there about us being interested in Boogaard and that makes me happy despite the fact he'd play 5 minutes a night.

He's friends with Dats, damnit! Ink the deal!

Over 35 contract is, as it sounds, the player is age 35 or older when signing the deal. This deal counts against the cap regardless of the player retiring, going on long term IR, etc.

Group 3's are the "main" group of FA, who have been in the league awhile.

Group 6's are typically guys who were not drafted, therefore got a later start, or drafted players who stagnated in the minors, but with enough callups to get the 3 accrued seasons, but under the 80 games.

$59.4M


Star, $7M+. Good first liner, around $5-6M. Good 2nd liner, $4M. Roster filler (truly filler) no more than $750K. Top goalies, $6M+, solid goalies around $4M+

Anywhere from 2-4 years, depending on a teams needs, how he progresses, and how a team treats their prospects (Detroit, for example, tends to wait longer, rather than rush)

Probably 2 or 3 seasons. Goalie and forward, practical wisdom says, ready sooner than D

Biased, I'll say the Pens.

Good upcoming teams, where you could catch on now and enjoy, Avs and possibly Coyotes.

Thanks for the response... I did have a Peter Forsberg and Patrick Roy poster on my walll growing up...

A follow up question-
If you draft a kid who is like 18 and playing in juniors up in Canada can he stay there for a year or 2 before moving to the AHL...can a player in the juniors be called up and sent back down like an AHL player, or once he starts a season there is he stuck.
Just trying to figure out this whole progression from 18 year old kid to NHL player and everything in between. (I watched the entire 1st round draft the other night so that got me thinking).

Thanks for the response... I did have a Peter Forsberg and Patrick Roy poster on my walll growing up...

A follow up question-
If you draft a kid who is like 18 and playing in juniors up in Canada can he stay there for a year or 2 before moving to the AHL...can a player in the juniors be called up and sent back down like an AHL player, or once he starts a season there is he stuck.
Just trying to figure out this whole progression from 18 year old kid to NHL player and everything in between. (I watched the entire 1st round draft the other night so that got me thinking).

A junior kid you get until he is 20 and his eligibility is out then you have to sign him. With NCAA kids you get them until their 4 years eligibility is up, which is why teams now draft kids in the USHL later now because you can conceivably hold their rights for 6 years.

So what is the difference between a group 3, group 6, and Unrestricted free agent? Also what is the "over 35 contract" I've seen mentioned a few times?

How much is the cap this year?

What should a team expect to pay for a star, a good 1st line guy, good 2nd line guy, roster fillers, goalies.

When drafting a player in the first round how long do they normally spend in the minors before moving up and making an impact (aside from the true superstars).

How long does a goalie normally need?

What team should I follow? I grew up as a black hawks fan (Had a Jeremy Roenick jersey when I was like 10)... Geographically I am closest to Dallas but being a Saints fan I refuse to pull for Dallas teams. It'd be easier for me to follow the sport more learn the ins and outs of a roster if I had a true team to pull for.

1. Unrestricted Free agents: There really isn't any difference that would matter to you as a fan. The categories are just breakdowns of how/when a player can become a UFA.

2. 35 Year Contract: If a player is 35 years old (as of some specific calendar date) then the entire amount of that player's contract will count against the cap, regardles of whether the player retires (unless you're the New Jersey Devils). For younger players, there are more options and alternative ways of getting rid of cap hits. So, there is a bit more risk of signing older players like, for example, Sergei Gonchar.

3. The cap: $59.4 million

4. Player values: A team is likely to have a core of players, say 3-5, who make around $5-7 million. You would expect a couple of your top line guys and top d-pairing to make that. Your next teir of guys are coming in at around $2-4 million and then there are variations after that. Those are, of course, just generalizations. A lot depends on where the money is being spent. "Filler" guys should run from about $5k - $1 million.

5. A player is likely to spend anywhere from 3-4 years in the minors, depending on their development and what the team needs. Players are coming up younger and younger nowadays, because their contracts are more cap friendly and because they can be shuttled between the NHL and minors without having to clear waivers. A lot of this is team specific and prospect specific.

6. Same with goalies. Some take longer to develop than others. The Wings "rookie" Jimmy Howard, for example, was a rookie this year and he's 26. Other guys start much younger. It's hard to say.

7. Looking for a team? THE DETROIT RED WINGS is your team. They are classy. They have a strong tradition. You can't go wrong with them.

7. Looking for a team? THE DETROIT RED WINGS is your team. They are classy. They have a strong tradition, and there FOFC fan base is incredibly charming and reasonably attractive, you can't go wrong with them.

FIFY

Sportsnet's Roger Millions hearing Ryan Callahan could be on his way from Rangers to Calgary

Marty Biron (G) signs with the Rangers.

Thank god. I didn't want the Sabres to get him. All the fans seem to want to bring him in because he played good backing up Miller a few years ago. However, he is even close to being that goalie that he was.

Of course, I hope Reiger has something up his sleeve. He's already hated by the fans and media, but if he sits still while the rest of the Northeast Division is wheeling and dealing to make themselves better.

Interesting that Paille re-signed with Boston for 2 years.

Pens sign Michalek, 5 years, 20 mil.

Sather is apparently trolling Calgary:

Rangers looking to take on Iginla and send back Drury to the Flames.