Heatley to Edmonton Done?

It is being reported by TSN that Dany Heatley has been asked to waive his NTC in order to be dealt to the Edmonton Oilers for the speculated return of Andrew Cogliano, Ladislav Smid, and Dustin Penner.

If he does waive, the Senators are off the hook for a $4M bonus he was to be paid tomorrow.

The projected top line for Edmonton would be Shawn Horcoff, Dany Heatley and Ales Hemsky.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Flame on JayBo!

The deal before free agency (I own the rights to this film lol) continues to be explosive as the Flames managed to make the best of their negotiating rights with Jay Bouwmeester by signing the 25 year old defenceman to a 5 year deal worth $6.6M per season.

Could Phaneuf be on the move?

The Flames acquired his rights from Florida in return for the rights to Jordan Leopold and a 3rd round pick of the 2009 Entry Draft.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Gomez A Hab, Sedins Signed?

The Montreal Canadiens have acquired center Scott Gomez, Tom Pyatt, and Mike Busto from the New York Rangers in exchange for Chris Higgins, Doug Janik, Ryan McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko.

Looks like the Habs have immediately made changes to their team in wake of the lack of signing of Mike Komisarek, Saku Koivu, and Alex Kovalev. They may very well have made the deal after finding out the asking price for Lecavalier was just far too much.

Good on the Habs for making a bold move such as this. There were several reports throughout the year of specific players not getting along in the dressing room - a split between Nationalities. The Habs look to be picking up key components they wish to have wearing their jersey, and GM Bob Gainey knew a change was needed. I believe this could be the first of many for Montreal. New ownership, new coach, new team.

Also, reports out of Sweden suggest the Sedins have each signed a 6 year $6M dollar contract to remain in Vancouver. These reports are believed to be false, after they were announced on CBC Radio and discussed on TSN. The Canucks offered the Twins one final offer before heading into free agency tomorrow and (to the public knowledge) they have yet to accept or decline the offer.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Your UFA Wish List

July 1st is tomorrow, folks. Where has the time gone? Not complaining, though, I couldn't be happier as I prepare to bask in the excitement of the Free Agency Frenzy. Oh, and it's also Canada Day, too.

Brian Burke, after failing to make his mark at the NHL Entry Draft, will presumably have big plans for tomorrow. He loves the limelight, after all, so it wouldn't surprise me if he tries to steal the show. On the other hand, signing a variety of second-tier Unrestricted Free Agents would also be considered a successful, albeit conservative, approach.
So I ask you, what's your UFA wish list? If you were Burke, who would you target?

Here's my wish list:

Mike Cammalleri (27): A 27 year-old, 40-goal scorer who can produce at a point-per-game pace if surrounded by the right linemates. Need I say more? Sure, he lacks in size, but I see him as an integral piece to the Leafs' offense in the near future. He'd look good beside Nazim Kadri too, heh?

Would sign for a max of: 5M

Mike Komisarek (27): A young defenseman who's just entering his prime. Coming off an average season with the Montreal Canadiens (hell, who didn't?) but still managed to lead the team in blocked shots and hits—again. Has the potential to be one of, if not the best defensive defenseman in the league. I'd sign him in a heartbeat if the interest is there.

Would sign for a max of: 5M (would have to be long-term deal)

Colton Orr (27): He'll turn the opponents' faces into mashed potatoes. Enough said.

Would sign for a max of: 1M

What's your UFA wishlist? Explain your reasoning's, armchair GM's!

ronguillet@gmail.com

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Cammalleri or the Sedins?

Brian Burke has not publicly stated who he'll be targeting on July 1st, but logic dictates his focus will be deadlocked on Unrestricted Free Agents Mike Cammalleri or the Sedins.

After many critics--fans and writers alike--expressed their discontent towards Burke's inactivity at the NHL Entry Draft last weekend, you can bet Burke will be looking to make a big splash once July 1st comes swinging. While he managed to draft seven North American players at the draft, most of them at behemoth size, he failed to import more prospects and draft picks by not pulling the trigger on any deals.

Lucky for Burke, Free Agency Day kicks off almost immediately after the draft, so if he really does care what his critics are complaining about (doubt it) he can now make amends. Burke stated that he will not watch the same team that was displayed last season, so one way or another, you can expect change. While he'll be able to dispose much of his players via trade, it's unlikely they will garner a return valuable enough to upgrade the team's woes. While the stock of Leafs defensemen Tomas Kaberle and Pavel Kubina has surely risen due to the Chris Pronger and Jay Bouwmeester deals, it's unlikely trading one of the defenseman will suffice in Burke's "master plan."

While Cammalleri or the Sedins hardly constitute as a "Burke-type player," they are offensively gifted forwards who would implement an immediate impact to the team's long-term goals, not to mention the goals for category. And it's not as if their defensive game leaves much to be desired. While they lack in the grit and size departments, it shouldn't be too much of an issue if they’re surrounded by bigger players. And judging from Burke's draftees this year, I'd say that won't be much of problem.

The question, however, is what UFA's to target. Should Burke focus his attention towards the Sedins, or should he try to ink Cammelleri to a contract? Personally, the prospect of signing Cammalleri seems the most enticing. While his resume is less impressive than the Sedins, he'll probably cost the Leafs around 5 million dollars in cap hit, while the Sedins would cost near the 15 million vicinity. Signing Cammalleri would also allow the Leafs to award more roster spots to gritty, two-way forwards. If the Sedins sign in Toronto, then the Leafs' top-six, should they re-sign Mikhail Grabovski, will compromise of many one-dimensional forwards. And frankly, I'd rather the Leafs avoid getting handcuffed with lucrative, long-term contracts until atleast next summer, when Rick Nash is set to become a UFA.

What do you think? Should the Leafs target the Sedins, or Cammalleri? Or should they avoid both and opt for different UFA's?

Personally, I'd be a pretty happy Leafs fan if Cammalleri is locked up on July 1st. Let the madness unfold!

ronguillet@gmail.com

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2009 Entry Draft Updated in Real-Time

I will be frequently updating this blog today as we go along with the Entry Draft. Any and all rumors that I come across will be posted here, be sure to share your thoughts with us as we progress. All picks will be posted at the top, all rumors at the bottom in real-time. Most up to date rumors will be posted at the top of the rumor list.

ENTRY DRAFT:

1. New York Islanders - John Tavares - "It's been a long time coming for me. With a rebuilding team, it should be exciting. We'll bring the tradition back. I had no idea they were going to take me first overall".
2. Tampa Bay Lightning - Victor Hedman - "My mom told me to play D so I have a lot of thanks to give to her." Lawton indirectly says if they had number 1 pick they would NOT have drafted Hedman.
3. Colorado Avalanche - Matt Duchene - "I got a great team back in Brampton if I don't make the team next year. It's a great team and I look forward to training camp." Matt Duchene knew the exact sticks and their curves of the Avalanche team.
4. Atlanta Thrashers - Evander Kane - "I'm hoping to be a 50 goal guy."
5. Los Angeles Kings - Brayden Schenn - He looked pretty frustrated that he didn't get drafted by the Leafs.
6. Phoenix Coyotes - Oliver Ekman-Larsson
7. Toronto Maple Leafs - Nazim Kadri - Burke gets booed before drafting him. Burke told Brian Murray he was taking Kadri. "I feel great. Nice warm welcome here in Montreal. I can't wait to get started".
8. Dallas Stars - Scott Glennie
9. Ottawa Senators - Jared Cowen
10. Edmonton Oilers - Magnus-Paajarvi Svensson
11. Nashville Predators - Ryan Ellis - At 5'8", he is a fantastic player who played as Team Canada's quarterback and played the line solo.
12. New York Islanders (from MIN) - Calvin DeHaan
13. Buffalo Sabres - Zach Kassian - Considered the best physical player and best fighter in the draft with size and skill.
14. Florida Panthers - Dmitri Kulikov
15. Anaheim Ducks - Peter Holland
16. Minnesota Wild (CBJ from NYI) - Nick Leddy
17. St. Louis Blues - David Rundblad
18. Montreal Canadiens - Louis Leblanc - "Determined scorer, strong character, we would have moved up a bit to get him if given the opportunity" - Bob Gainey.
19. New York Rangers - Chris Kreider
20. New Jersey Devils (from CGY) - Jacob Josefson
21. Columbus Blue Jackets (PHI from ANA) - John Moore
22. Vancouver Canucks - Jordan Schroeder - Schroeder and Hodgson played against each other in the World Juniors, now they are teammates. Vancouver steals Schroeder at 22nd overall.
23. Calgary Flames (from NJD) - Tim Erixon - "It's a dream come true, I'm real proud and I hope my whole family is proud".
24. Washington Capitals - Marcus Johansson - Ranked 33rd, he sets the record of the most Swedish players drafted in the first round (7).
25. Boston Bruins - Jordan Caron
26. Anaheim Ducks(SJS from CBJ from NYI) - Kyle Palmieri
27. Carolina Hurricanes - Phillipe Paradis
28. Chicago Blackhawks - Dylan Olsen
29. Tampa Bay Lightning (from DET) - Carter Ashton
30. Pittsburgh Penguins - Simon Depres

17 of top 30 players selected were Canadian.

That completes this year's first round coverage of the Entry Draft.

RUMORS/TRADES:

TRADE: Detroit sends the 29th pick to Tampa Bay for TBay's 32nd pick and the 75th overall pick.

10:37

A lot of teams are kicking tires, everyone is basically staying stationary on their picks or only moving picks down for additional picks. No players making much movement tonight.

Burke wants to move up to an earlier 2nd round pick to draft Ryan O'Reilly.

10:26

Burke talking with San Jose and Los Angeles, might already be after Brayden Schenn.

Ducks trade #21 to Columbus for #26 and #37.

TRADE: Calgary trades #20 to New Jersey for #23 and #84.

9:50 PM

Burke can't get anything done on a trade as teams are demanding picks and he refuses to move any.

TRADE: Wild trade their 12th overall pick to the Islanders for the 16th, 77th and 182nd picks.

TRADE: Jackets have made a trade with the Islanders. Islanders swap picks, move up to 16th overall, Jackets drop to 26th. 16 and 77 for 26, 37, 62, 92 overall picks. 16 and 77 to the Islanders.

TRADE: Lupul, Sbisa, 21st overall, 1st in 2010 to Anaheim, conditional 3rd round pick in either 2010 or 2011. Chris Pronger and Ryan Dingle to Philly. I knew Holmgren was desperate but... man...

7:10

ENTRY DRAFT BEGINS!

Pronger to Flyers for Lupul?

Reinsdorf offer for Coyotes comes in at $148M

7:05 PM

Pronger dealt to Flyers - Dreger.

7:00 PM

Crazy rumor reported by Damien Cox states Lightning have acquired the 1st overall pick.

Kevin McGrann from the Toronto Star suggests Leafs are looking at Oliver Ekman-Larsson with their 7th pick.

6:41 PM

Chicago RFA Dave Bolland re-signs with the Hawks: 5 years, 18M.

6:33 PM

Scott Niedermayer returning next season, Chris Pronger on the block. Flyers propose big deal for Pronger. What a day!

Burke on "Off the Record". He wants Tavares and if he can't have him he wants Brayden Schenn.

Dallas/Toronto deal has been dismissed by ESPN.

6:00 PM

Trade between Boston and Toronto is "miscommunication". Trade is dead.

Jonas Gustavsson eliminates the Avalanche from his potential teams to sign with. Down to the Leafs, Stars and another.

Jerry Reinsdorf submitting his offer to purchase the Coyotes tonight at midnight.

4:26 PM

Fan 590 suggest the Dallas Stars have offered their #8 selection and Ondrej Roman or Perttu Lindgren for Tomas Kaberle.

3:50 PM

Eklund reports: "Jason Blake may be moving".
Mike reports: "Eklund is retarded".

Looking more and more like Kessel will be traded in time for tonight's draft. Several teams expressing interest.

TSN reveals a pick will come Toronto's way for Kaberle and the Leafs 7th, but other sources state the 7th is not involved. Perhaps Kessel and a 3rd (Boston has no 2nd round picks this year) for Kaberle? Kessel is slated to be an RFA this summer.

Alec Brownscombe details a counter offer by Burke with Atlanta that is believed to be the 4th overall pick, prospect/roster player for Kaberle and the Leafs 7th overall pick. Toronto likes Colby Armstrong's style of play, as well as Brian Little who was drafted 1 pick before Tlusty.

3:00 PM

According to the Montreal Gazette, Gainey claims they are in fact looking at a number 1 centerman, but he claims they will not find him as a free agent on July 1st.

There is an offer on the table for Heatley and it's believed to be Frolov and LA's first round pick (5th overall) for him. - Minneapolis Star-Tribune.

Thanks to Andrew Stoeten for finding this piece of evidence:
"Columbus is not interested in Leafs defenceman Tomas Kaberle, and one rumour circulating is that the Thrashers will land him, as part of a package that will see the Leafs get Atlanta's fourth-overall pick" - Columbus Dispatch.

2:15 PM

From Alec Brownscombe at MLHS: "Deal between Boston and Toronto does not include Toronto's 7th overall pick, but a pick in return from Boston."

Colorado still trying to move up or gain a few extra picks. Hanna, Smyth and Liles are the names that are being thrown around.

Islanders are intrigued by Matt Duchene and John Tavares.

Tampa has lots of interest in Hedman but are liking the idea of getting Tavares and Stamkos back together.

1:00 PM

Thrashers thinking of trading down if they can land a top tier player to keep Kovalchuk interested in staying in Atlanta. They also need immediate ticket sales.

Dallas Stars are thought to be the only team that is fine with trading out of a top 10 pick, the Edmonton Oilers have made calls.

Heatley camp could reach an end tonight, but Murray is not pleased that he has a NTC to prevent any quick deals on the floor.

Sharks trying to get Clowe locked up long-term but are surprised at the amount of offers on the table.

Bouwmeester may not be dealt tonight, but Florida understands that they are in desperation mode now.

Tampa Bay still demanding Schenn be included in a deal for the Leafs to land the 2nd overall pick and Burke is not biting.

Canadiens trying to make a splash to land a big time forward. Marleau and Lecavalier names have come up but perhaps Kessel is also on their radar.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Kaberle and 7th overall for Kessel

Reports have come out stating the Bruins have offered Phil Kessel in return for Tomas Kaberle and the Leafs 7th overall pick. While it is indeed one of the offers for Kaberle's services, it is a steep price to pay, and it is not believed to be the intriguing offer the Leafs camp spoke of yesterday.

Other potential offers are:

Washington deals Jonathan Carlsson and Washington's first round pick (24th overall) for Tomas Kaberle.

Florida trades Bouwmeester and Florida's 14th overall pick to the Leafs for Kaberle and a 2nd round pick.

All speculation, everyone running around like mad men trying to sort it out. What's your thoughts?

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Hometown Hero - Kurtis McLean

I had the opportunity to catch Kurtis McLean at Hockey Heritage North in Kirkland Lake, Ontario and ask him a few questions about his career and his future in the NHL. The 28 year old NCAA and AHL star has been nothing short of a hard worker and the type of player every team wants in their system for strength and leadership.

A brief bio of Kurtis McLean:

He played his entire College career with the Norwich Cadets, finishing with 212 points (118G 94A) in 115 games. He helped his team win the D-III National Championship, was named the 2005 D-III Player of the Year, and is the first ever D-III four-time First Team All-American. In 2007-08, McLean helped the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL) to the Calder Cup Finals and finished 7th in playoff scoring with 19 points (4G, 15A) in 23 games, including 6 multi-point affairs.

After 4 years of College Hockey and 4 years of playing in the AHL, Kurtis McLean’s dream came true as he played his first game in the NHL for the New York Islanders. He finished out the year with 4 games in the big league and scored his first goal against J.S. Giguere and the Anaheim Ducks. He finished off his NHL stats with 1 goal and a +1 on a struggling Islanders franchise with an average of just under 11 minutes of ice time per game.

When asked about his first NHL goal, McLean considered it “a dream come true. Having an opportunity to get a goal against Giguere was an incredible feeling and after that game, Giguere never really recovered”. In fact, after losing to the Islanders 2-1 on January 21st, 2009 – the game McLean scored the winning goal, a blast from the high slot that beat him clean glove side – Giguere went on to play just 15 more games during the regular season (and one game in the playoffs against Detroit) in which he averaged a 3.53 GAA and an 85.7 SV%. Coming into the game against McLean, Giguere was enjoying a 2.83 GAA and 89.5 SV%. The second game in the NHL for Kurtis McLean proved deadly against the Stanley Cup winning goaltender.

I asked McLean of his plans heading into next season. He’s a pending UFA on July 1st but he certainly has his own game plan. “As you know, I had a late season injury (torn Achilles) that kept me out [for the last 15 games of the year]. I had a great time playing for the Islanders organization and if I need time to continue to recover, I have a deal with Finland [Lukko of the SM-liiga] for next season”. McLean is a gritty two-way player who is excited to play in Europe next year.

But he isn’t the only member of the Islanders organization who is at an exciting time in hockey; Isles GM Garth Snow is faced with a difficult decision on who to draft with the 1st overall pick, or perhaps to trade it. I asked Kurtis “if [he] had the opportunity to trade or draft the 1st overall pick, what would” he do. “I don’t think they’ll be trading it”, he began. “And I don’t think Hedman is the one on their radar right now. They want a forward to lead their team and if they want the immediate ticket sales they’ll go with Tavares, but there are a lot of rumblings that they are interested in the type of player Matt Duchene is. His leadership qualities are a good fit for their organization”.

When it’s all said and done, McLean still believes John Tavares is the most skilled player in this year’s draft.

We, at CheckingFromBehind.com, wish Kurtis all the best for next season.

McLean’s first NHL Goal:


Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Enough With The 'Non-Traditional' Tag

I hate to say it, but I think we Canadians are becoming whiny bitches when it comes to the non-traditional market teams in the U.S. Everywhere you turn, there's some piece on how 'non-tradtional' markets just aren't working, and the NHL should return to its roots.

Nobody complains about the Dallas Stars, Carolina or any of the three California teams. *ALL* of those are non-traditional markets. It's not really about 'tradition' at all. After all, even teams in 'traditional' markets have struggled or currently are. Edmonton, Buffalo, Ottawa and the New York Islanders come to mind here.

This chatter has only been heightened with the woes of the Coyotes franchise, of which there are several factors involved, including the location of the arena in relation to population distribution, the actual product on the ice, and the financial mismanagement from ownership to this point.

Look, the owners aren't stupid (not many stupid people can earn the multi-millions it takes to purchase and maintain any professional sports franchise). They know they'll make a boatload of money in Hamilton, but why not get the expansion fee as well? That's all they're waiting for. That's the cherry on top. It's not that they don't want more teams in Canada, they just want to maximize their profit from it.

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Mike and Justin Q&A Discussion

The following is based on entertainment purposes only. This is a collective Q&A between Micheal Aldred and Justin Traviss over several matters involving the NHL, the 2009 Entry Draft, and finally "Justin's Random Unheard Of".

Justin: If you were Leafs general manager Brian Burke, who would you concentrate on signing if they don’t trade up for the draft?

Mike: Mike Komisarek. I think the possibility of having him and Schenn on a line together is far too intriguing to pass on. Almost like having a vintage Foote and Blake together again.

Justin: Colorado has a top 3 pick, think they'll move it?

Mike: I think the Avs are crossing their fingers on landing Matt Duchene to replace Sakic in the future, so I don't think it's the right decision to make. If Duchene is the player people believe he could be, then it's hard to trade that pick and call it an even deal. What are your thoughts on Colorado’s situation?

Justin: Chara. The Avalanche should get Chara.

Mike: haha THE Chara?

Justin: Yes. I like Chara. Colorado should trade some bum for Chara. They should trade Sakic for Chara and then Sakic will retire, or what they could do is put Wolski and Svatos on the first line and in a few years they will both be 99 overall. I did it in NHL08!

Mike: What about Colorado’s situation?

Justin: On what? Duchene? Colorado? Trading Sakic for Chara?

Mike: The draft, and the Avs pick.

Justin: As much as I personally would prefer Duchene or Tavares, I think Hedman would be a lot better for them then either of those two, since I think Stastny can hopefully fill in for Sakic down the road.

Mike: Well there’s a ton of speculation coming out that the Avalanche are shopping Ryan Smyth, Scott Hannan and J.M. Liles, do you think they would try to trade up to secure Hedman’s services?

Justin: I can see the Avalanche trading Hannan and Smyth, as both have been somewhat disappointing since arriving in Colorado, but all in all, Liles is a guy to keep around. He’s a quarterback on the back end for their powerplay, no need to move him.

Mike: The lightning lack that one defensive prospect on the back end, do you think they would sacrifice a chance at Hedman to trade down with the Avs in order to gain Liles and go with Tavares/Duchene?

Justin: I think they could consider doing that, though their salary cap would have to see additional figures head the Avs way as well. They should then either trade that pick (3rd overall) and/or a player to another team that needs the offense for an established defenseman, a 25 to 28 year old to lead the team on the back end. It really depends on what the current market value of the top picks are.

Mike: How about the hiring of Joe Sacco?

Justin: Thumbs Way Down, Mike.

Mike: It caught me by surprise as well. I’m not exactly sold on having Sacco and Tocchet leading the team on the bench, not to mention the clashing in the ownership. That franchise is on a dark road for now.

Justin: If you were the Leafs, what would be the most you’d give up for the 1st overall pick?

Mike: In order for the Leafs to land the top pick from the Isles, it would have to be along the lines of Kaberle, the Leafs 7th and maybe Stajan heading to New York and even then I'm not certain the Isles would commit to that deal. Some might consider that overpaying for Tavares, others might consider it nowhere near enough.

Justin: Is that the most you would give up?

Mike: No, but it's a deal I would consider. Unless they are desperate to land the top pick, which I don't think is the case considering there are a ton of talented players in the top 10 this year, the Leafs could probably trade this year's first (7th overall) next year's 1st, and Kaberle for the 1st overall pick. And considering the type of player Tavares is/can be, that's not exactly a steep price to pay. If I were the Leafs, I'd hand over anything other than Schenn to land Tavares.

Justin: If given the opportunity, would you deal Schenn straight up for a shot a Tavares?

Mike: Absolutely not. Not at this point. Schenn has proven he can handle first line minutes against the top opposition in the league, these players haven't done so as of yet, and looking back at the 08 draft, it's difficult to say that as of today the top two players that came out of that draft is not Doughty and Schenn in that order.

Mike: What’s your opinion on the Coyotes ruling?

Justin: I’m not surprised. They'll probably stay in Phoenix until they go bankrupt (more so) and get undersold to Kansas, who will also flake out, and until Bettman and the current NHL brass suck it up a little bit and accept that there is a SERIOUS market in Canada (which means more revenue for the NHL - morons), then Canada is basically doomed. The NHL is FINE with Canadian teams flocking to the states...to non-markets no less.

Mike: A lot of reporters and sports analysts have claimed that Southern Ontario is a serviced market in that they can go and see several American teams who are right across the border. Do you feel that is a legitimate opinion?

Justin: Of course. Just as it is a legitimate option for us to move the whole fucking NHL to Canada and say the 7 hockey fans in Florida can fly up to Nunavut to watch NHL hockey. Even then, seats would be sold out because there are more hockey fans in Nunavut than fricken Florida. Only old, retired Canadians are panther fans. I might also say no on the grounds of why in the living, breathing hell should Canadians take Canadian money and travel to another country and give them our money to watch our players on their team? If we banned Canadians from going to cross-border games, those teams would probably be bankrupt too. Their logic is this - why have soccer in Canada when we can go to Brazil and watch it? Also, (you've kind of opened some flood gates here), with current passport and BS terrorist lock down crap, its going to get harder and harder to get across that border to continue to support the American teams with Canadian money. So I'd be interested to see how that affects the American-border hockey markets as well. I bet it’s a noticeable dip.

Mike: Just so I understand what you just said, you believe the crack-downs of border entry between the two nations will affect the amount of Canadians attending the games in the United States because of the terrorists?

Justin: First of all, I certainly want to be clear that I don't think there are terrorists, and no, I think it will affect the Canadians at American games because of the crackdown at the border regarding passports. People who don’t want/have the money for passports need them now, whereas before they could just go, watch the game and come back. This "attack on terrorist" with the CAN-USA border crack down is accomplishing nothing and it will make it a lot harder to have a quick night over to Buffalo or Detroit for hockey. At the same time, it’s also another valid reason Hamilton could absolutely support a team and now is the right time.

Mike: I think it’s safe to say whoever gets a 7th team in Canada is striking an absolute gold mine. So who is this Q&A’s “Justin’s Random Unheard Of”?

Justin: Mike, this week it is Raymond Macias, a player who I feel will be an effective top 4 defenseman in a few years time. He played 6 games with the Avs last year, finishing with 1 assist an Even on the +/- and one of the few Avs players to do so. He is a 6’2” 195 lbs 22 year old with a ton of potential, but he is a bit on the injury-prone side. Drafted in the 4th round (124th overall) of the 2005 Entry Draft, and is a strong skater who loves to clear out the front of the net and is not afraid to get physical in the corners.

Mike: Be sure to check out future Q&A’s here on CheckingFromBehind.com

Micheal Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

Justin Traviss
rigadori@hotmail.com

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CFB on Twitter!

That's right. You can follow us on Twitter where we will be posting tidbits and information going into the draft and the free agency. Be sure to follow along and keep yourself informed with all the need to know info for your team.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Cash or Pass – The Grabovski Chronicles

With just over a week to go until free agency, a certain Maple Leaf RFA by the name of Mikhail Grabovski is drawing some interesting attention from the management. The 25 year old who cost the Leafs a 2nd and a prospect last summer is seeking a contract of 3 to 5 years at $3.5M to $4M per season. This is essentially a breakdown of what he offers. Please leave a comment with your perspective of his demand after reading his specs and other information.

Mikhail Grabovski
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 185lbs
Age: 25
NHL Stats: 08/09 78GP 20G 28A 48P 92PIM -8 0.167 Shooting %
All-Time: 150GP 23G 34A 57P 100PIM -14 0.155 Shooting %

He’s a fast player with incredible hands, but he does tend to lack a finishing touch. This past season he started off great but, as many other Leafs, he went into a slump that seemed to have lasted until he played the Canadiens again. That said, he has always been intriguing to watch as he is damn near unpredictable.

Pros:

Speed, aggression, hates the Habs, draws a lot of attention from the Habs, creates chances, is not afraid to go into the corner.

Cons:

Lacks a physical game, his size can be an issue, is considered a pest and, at times, un-coachable, and he doesn’t seem to get along with Jason Blake (this point could also be considered a pro, because almost no one can get along with Blake. If they were best friends it would probably be a con).

Grabovski was hands down one of the most entertaining players to watch on the Leafs last season. While he was not able to get it done at times or step up when the team needed it the post, he is that type of secondary scoring the Leafs have always needed, but now that Sundin is gone, they need primary scoring the team now lacks.
Grabovski will likely never become a top line player, but at $3.5M is he worth it to keep around and find out if he is the next Maxim Afinogenov or the next Sergei Berezin? He finished his rookie season just 5 points shy of Kris Versteeg (53) and 9 points shy of Bobby Ryan (57), though Ryan did play 12 fewer games.

If they do not come to an agreement soon, Grabovski’s rights could very well be traded, perhaps even to move up in the draft or gain additional picks. There have also been speculation that Grabovski would take Burke and the Leafs to arbitration in order to try and hit his desired number. He is also prepared to leave for the KHL if he does not hit his desired figures.

The question is, do you think Grabovski is a 3 to 4 Million dollar player to provide the secondary scoring at center on Toronto’s 2nd line, or is he nothing more than a glorified and more creative Matt Stajan?

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Entry Draft Rumblings

It's certainly gettig interesting in Montreal over the case of "who will be the number 1 pick?" The Islanders are hearing a lot of rumblings over the type of leadership qualities on behalf of Matt Duchene and they seem to have interest in him as well. But the Lightning are almost content with whoever they land, and it's one of the reasons why there is speculation that they will move down in the draft, but not necessarily to the Leafs.

It seems the Avalanche and Thrashers are also interested in breaking into the top 2. While Brayden Schenn is an interesting selection, more people are interested in the style of play Duchene and even Jared Cowen bring to the table. Evander Kane is starting to look like the sleeper pick as the attention has not be focussed on the fouth rated selection.

Colorado wants Matt Duchene. There is no question about it. A player is believed to be the next Joe Sakic and Colorado is the team that wants to try and have "the next Joe Sakic" play a season with "Joe Sakic", but it might cost their team. The Lightning know the Avalanche are interested in this youngster, so they want to force the Avs hand a little. They'll likely swap picks, 2nd and 3rd, and could involve also swapping players up front. It's believed the Avs would send their 3rd pick and Marek Svatos to the Lightning for the 2nd overall pick and Steve Downie.

Another interesting case is the Islanders having more interest in Matt Duchene than they do in Hedman or Tavares. If that is the case, we could potentially see a top 3 selection of 1. Duchene, 2. Hedman, 3. Tavares. The Avalanche are apparently "content with settling with Tavares". Settle? Tavares? I'd call that a steal, but then again I'm just one of those who didn't believe the rumblings back in 2005 that Crosby wasn't going to be an elite player. Oh yeah, 4 years later, Stanley Cup.

There are also rumblings, most notably brought forward from Alec Brownscombe of Maple Leafs Hot Stove, that would see Burke moving Pavel Kubina and the 7th overall pick to the Thrashers for the 4th overall pick and a roster player - potentially Colby Armstrong. The Leafs would then have a decision to make. Evander Kane - who is believed to be an incredible two way player with a knack for the net, or Brayden Schenn, younger brother of Luke Schenn, who is regarded as the next Wendel Clark. It's a decision I am glad I am not faced with.

Needless to say, this year's entry draft could be the most interesting of the last decade. No one knows who will go first, and for that matter, no one knows who will and will not be in the top 5. The Kings are noted for selecting off the board, so don't be surprised if they make a bizarre pick.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Heatley Hears a Who?

After being told to “think it over” during the IIHF Men’s World Hockey Championship, Heatley returns with a bolder statement: Trade Me. The Senators extended interim head coach, Corey Clouston, and immediately the 2 time 50 goal scorer has decided a change of scenery is for the best.

“I’ve had some conversations with several teams. I don’t really have a time-table but I have urged teams who are interested to make contact before the draft”, says Bryan Murray. “If there’s an offer on the table from a team he wants but I feel there is a better deal on the table from another team, I’m going to pressure him to accept that or he may end up playing back here [in Ottawa]”.

It’s believed 2 offers have already been extended, or at least 2 inquiries, on the elite sniper. The Edmonton Oilers are believed to have offered Sam Gagner and their 2009 first round pick for Heatley, while the Sharks have apparently offered the likes of Joe Pavelski or Ryan Clowe.

But the Sens are believed to be more interested in Devin Setoguchi, a 22 year old who just came off a 31 goal campaign, and Milan Michalek, the 24 year old Czech who has been promising in his development, but is more of a playmaking forward with the ability to break the 20 goal plateau year in year out.

Leading up to the draft, the attention is certainly on the Senators and what they will/will not do going into free agency. Unfortunately for the Senators, there’s a $4M dollar bonus about to be handed Heatley’s way on July 1st. On that day, Heatley will have made $14M dollars in total this past season. It’s a hefty paycheck to trade away without even considering the bonuses that are owed.

It’s going to take some interesting maneuvering on Bryan Murray’s part to get a deal done, but don’t be surprised if Heatley is back next season in Ottawa.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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The Unsung Hero

He fought, and lost to, Daniel Carcillo. He worked his way onto a line with Malkin in the second round. He had over a 0.25 shooting percentage in the Conference Finals and Finals. He scored 4 goals and 2 assists against Chris Osgood to capture the cup, and he finished with a +/- of plus 8. His name is Maxime Talbot, and he was hands down the unsung hero for the Penguins.

Not counting his 31 hits while only averaging just over 15 minutes of ice time per game, Talbot was the energy player the Penguins needed to get over the hump, no discredit to the leadership they added via Fedotenko, Guerin and Kunitz.

He was drafted in the 8th round, 234th overall, of the 2002 NHL entry draft and since then, the 25 year old has grown comfortable in his role of a grinding two way forward. Facing the top lines of Philadelphia, Washington, Carolina and, regularly, Detroit, his +8 at the end of the playoffs is a major sign that he is a playoff performer.

And while the Red Wings were doing everything they could to hold off Sidney Crosby, Talbot was off having a fantastic series, considering his role, with a 0.286 shooting percentage, including 4 goals in the series, 2 of which were involved in Game 7, the only two of the game. Yes, Maxime Talbot had scored the Cup winning goal for the Penguins.

In the last 4 games of the Detroit/Pittsburgh series, Talbot had a point per game. Maybe I should put this into perspective for you on why he is absolutely an unsung hero.

Regular Season: 75GP 12G 10A 22P -9
Playoffs: 24GP 8G 5A 13P +8

He is 100% a playoff performer, and is the Penguins unsung hero.

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins franchise on their success.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmatil.com

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Gary Bettman's Folly

It's lost $300 million since leaving Winnipeg, having never turned a profit, but NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is dead set on keeping the Phoenix Coyotes in Glendale. A hearing scheduled for Tuesday in the bankruptcy case may determine the future of the franchise (barring the appeals that will likely come from all sides involved).

The irony in all of this is that the team was relocated from Winnipeg in order to stem the losses being incurred by the ownership at the time. As the NHL expanded heavily into the U.S., it took a toll on the smaller Canadian teams. The NHL conducts business in U.S. currency, and at the time the Canadian dollar was worth $0.73 U.S.

The question that has never been fully answered is why Bettman is so insistent. Some point to southern expansion as Bettman's legacy to the NHL. Now, to be fair, NHL expansion wasn't started by Bettman. Prior to his arrival the NHL added San Jose, Tampa Bay and Ottawa and had already announced teams in Florida and Anaheim. And the owners did bring Bettman in for the sole purpose of selling the game in the U.S. and to complete the expansion. He did so by adding Nashville, Atlanta, Minnesota and Columbus, while the original Minnesota team relocated to Dallas, Hartford to North Carolina, Quebec to Colorado and of course Winnipeg.

But why fight so hard for Phoenix now? The only group that seems to argue that the Coyotes can be turned around is the city of Glendale, who stand to lose hundreds of millions if the team leaves. Is it really so dire for the NHL to have another team in the southwest? Sure, alignment gets a bit more tricky, but that's not a show-stopper. If anything, the Coyotes have been hit hard by the 2005 lockout and the subsequent increases of the salary cap floor...a common lament among most of the smaller-market teams that are struggling to spend up to the floor (currently about $40 million).

Bettman is easy to hate, especially for Canadians who feel he has an anti-Canada position, as he put in far less effort to save Winnipeg and Quebec than he has with Pittsburgh, Nashville and Phoenix. He's also been through two lockouts, the second resulting in the salary cap finally being instituted. I don't think the NHL owners look at him in the same way. Under his watch, league revenue has gone from $400 million to $2.2 billion as well as given most of the owners cost certainty.

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Killing Me Softly With Your Non-Calls

I'll be the first to admit that I like it better when the referees put their whistles away late in a playoff game. I'd rather that the players decide the outcome, especially if it's a close, hard-fought game. But this season, it's almost gone overboard. Too many penalties are either ignored, or the refs just aren't watching.

In fact, this is the least penalized final matchup in 64 years. And it's not like Detroit and Pittsburgh are penalty-free teams. In the regular season, Pittsburgh was 20th in PIM, Detroit 11th. In the playoffs, Detroit is 12th and Pittsburgh 14th. Even taking away the paltry minutes so far (in four games, the teams have combined for 62 penalty minutes...the bulk coming in the last 20 seconds of game two), both teams would be in the bottom half.

But there have been a lot of plays gone uncalled. Pittsburgh playing nearly 20 seconds with too many men on the ice in game three. Pucks cleared out of the defensive end and over the glass with no penalty called. Marian Hossa breaking Pascal Dupuis stick with a slash that was never called. I'm sure plenty of fans on both sides have more examples.

I get that the NHL loves for the action to continue and is always worried about people thinking the refs had a hand in deciding the game. But the rules are there for a reason. They do have to be enforced when broken. I don't care if it's a game in November between Florida and Columbus or game seven of the Stanley Cup final. And I'm talking the outrageous non-call stuff. I'm glad they put the whistle away for the crappy little stick check penalties. When you see a guy get cross-check viciously, and the refs are yelling to play on...well, that's not right. And it will ultimately hurt the game.

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Ruffling Feathers

The Pittsburgh Penguins are determined to make sure history does not repeat itself.

Despite being down 2-0 to the powerhouse Detroit Red Wings, the same result after two games in the Stanley Cup Final last season, the plucky Pens have fought back to tie the series at two and are showing their true colours once again in these playoffs. While there were some eerie similarities between this year’s finals and last, Sidney Crosby and company have changed all that after an impressive game four win.

Older, wiser, more mature. All words and phrases used to describe the 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins. If there was ever a time to prove it, it was in a Stanley Cup Finals rematch with the reigning champion Red Wings. After the first weekend, however, the Penguins found themselves in a familiar situation, down 2-0 and nothing going their way.

Young, inexperienced, nervous. These were the new buzz words surrounding the Penguins. Wait, new? No, these too were carryovers from last season. It felt like everything had changed and yet nothing truly had. You could see the frustration in the faces of Crosby, Staal, coach Dan Bylsma and many others in the Penguins organization.

Going back to Steel Town, it was fair to say that every fan of the flightless birds felt that sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach. This feels too familiar... Then the Pens won game three. Nobody really felt better. After all, it was 2-1 Wings after three games last year too. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that game four was going to be big.

They started well, seeing Evgeni Malkin pot his 14th goal of this post-season, but fell behind with two Red Wings’ goals less than three minutes apart spanning the end of the first and the beginning of the second periods. But something finally changed, the Penguins wouldn’t quit and they would finally show the Red Wings just what they are capable of. In a flurry, Malkin, Crosby and their partners in crime went to work. Jordan Staal barrels in on Osgood fighting off a defender and slides home the tying goal. Malkin and Crosby get the 2-on-1 and Crosby makes good on a nice second effort pass from Evgeni. Then to top it all off, Kennedy slams home the biscuit on one of the nicest passing plays of the postseason.

The Red Wings are in trouble, and they are well aware of it, even if they won’t say so. The series has dramatically shifted in Pittsburgh’s favour and they show no sign of slowing down. Detroit hasn’t been able to see almost any contribution from their big guns and Pavel Datsyuk hasn’t played a game in the series. Even if they get him back, the damage may be done.

Led by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins are demonstrating the hunger and drive they showed in their run not only through the playoffs, but fighting back from near the bottom of the Eastern Conference barrel in the regular season just to make the postseason. They still have to win at least one game in Detroit to win the Cup, but their confidence is seemingly limitless.

The Cup will be in Pittsburgh on Tuesday night, but will it stay there or be on the move back to Detroit?

mitch.hart@gmail.com

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The Penguins Strike Back

In a playoff season that has delivered several great games, we were treated to another last night. Sidney Crosby finally gets on the board, helping set up the game winner, and the Penguins narrow Detroit's lead to 2-1.

The Penguins put forth their best effort of the series, despite being outshot 29-21. The most telling: the Penguins outshot the Wings 10-3 in the third period...probably one of the few third periods that Detroit has been dominated in.

Pittsburgh needed someone to step up, and Maxime Talbot finally answered the call, scoring twice. Kristopher Letang's powerplay goal late in the first period was crucial. With Detroit leading 2-1, the Penguins probably couldn't afford to go into the intermission thinking about being down again.

The Wings did look off-kilter all night, but that's how they looked in game three vs Chicago until they forced overtime, and we all know how that series ended. The thing for me is that despite looking sloppy, the Wings were never out of this game until the empty netter sealed it. I doubt they'll get worse. So if sloppy play is up to Pittsburgh's best effort so far, it's still Detroit's series to lose.

For game four, the Penguins will need a stronger defensive effort. Detroit adjusts well to the opponents arena, and they will come out hard. It's also possible that Pavel Datsyuk will be back in the lineup, considering the Wings could use a bit of a boost. If this series draws even, it's anybody's series. If Detroit goes up 3-1...again...well, I don't think that Pittsburgh will get another triple overtime win in game five.

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Antropov Coming Back Home?

It was something that immediately popped into my head when it was announced that the Ponikarovsky to Nashville rumors were untrue and Antropov was dealt to the Rangers minutes later – did Antropov do for the Leafs what Sundin never would? The Leafs were only looking at a pick for Moore and a 4th rounder they purchased from the Lightning. The deadline was looming over their heads and off went Antropov and the remainder of his one year deal.

Antropov then arrived in New York and went on to post an additional 13 points for his new club and cap off the year with a 28 goal performance and 59 points – good enough for the highest point total on the Rangers club. In the playoffs, when Avery and Gomez were not performing at their peak, Antropov was there. Despite finishing the playoffs with a -1, his two goals equaled the highest on the team, and his 16 hits proved that he does enjoy the physical game.

He had a few stretches in which he did not score a single goal, nor put up a few points for the Leafs this past season, but nothing was denying his true heart for the game and, perhaps more importantly, for the Leafs. Claimed “the only top 6 forward on the team” at the start of the year, that was more than accurate, and with the Leafs having nearly 20 million to spend this team, assuming they’d move some bodies at the draft as well, would they consider bringing big Nik back and reunite him with Ponikarovsky?

Both Alexei and Nik posted career highs last season in goals, assists, and points. With his age sitting at 29, Antropov is not outside of the ball-park number discussed by the Maple Leafs front office last season on free agents they would not pursue. The two loved the city of Toronto so much that they officially became Canadian citizens two years ago.

“It feels good to hear people say ‘Wow you’re one of us,’ ” said Ponikarovsky. Antropov joked beside him that “he knew who the president of Canada was”.

So it is interesting to see what Burke will do concerning Antropov. Will he return to wear the blue and white next season after career highs for the city and team he loves, or will his legacy for the Leafs conclude as a second round pick for a former first? After watching Antropov from the start of his career to the player he has aggressively become today, I say bring him back to Toronto. It's where he belongs.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Perhabs Martin?

Today, the Montreal Canadiens have officially announced former Florida Panthers and Ottawa Senators head coach, Jaques Martin, as the new face on the bench. "He did really well in Ottawa and as GM in Florida and the people will be happy here (in Montreal) because he's bilingual", said tough guy forward Georges Laraque. It will be the first time the Habs have hired a coach with NHL experience since Jacques Demers in 1992-93.

The club now faces questions on impending UFA's Alex Kovalev, Saku Koivu, and the much anticipated defensemen this summer, Mike Komisarek. Now that the coach is out of the way, the team can focus on what they want for their club.

Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com

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Conn Smythe Watch

The Detroit Red Wings are two wins away from once again hoisting Lord Stanley's Cup. In the process, they've kept perfect their record when leading after two periods intact (now 11-0). With the Finals close to being over, it's time to start looking at the potential playoff MVPs for both teams.


Detroit Red Wings

Favourite: Chris Osgood has been simply phenomenal. After his poorest regular season in a Red Wings jersey, Osgood has been unflappable. And with back to back one goal games in the Finals, he's been the best Wing on the ice.

Johan Franzen leads the team in goals scored and points in the playoffs. In the past 34 playoff games, he's scored 24 times, including the winner in game one and has been a constant presence every shift.

Henrik Zetterberg has been Detroit's most complete player. In two games so far, he's averaged 23 minutes of ice time while shadowing and shutting down Sidney Crosby...a big reason the Wings are up 2-0. He's also second on the team in goals (9) and points (19).

Noted: Niklas Lidstrom, Valterri Filppula

Pittsburgh Penguins

Favourite: Even though Sidney Crosby has been shut out in the first two games of the Finals (the first time this has happened since last year's final), he has been hands down the best Penguin on the ice. What's hurting him is the sudden lack of ice time and the constant attention from Detroit's top players.

Evgeni Malkin has had a hand in the only two goals that the Penguins have scored so far, and leads the league in playoff points with 30. He's been less of a focus of the Wings defensive coverage, and he could take more advantage of that.

Marc-Andre Fleury may not have the best numbers in the playoffs, but he's a big reason the Penguins are back in the Finals. Even with a couple of bad bounces, he needs to come up big (the Abdelkader goal in game two was just bad) for his team to get back in this.

Noted: Bill Guerin, Sergei Gonchar

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