It wasn't long ago when Todd Bertuzzi, Markus Naslund, and Brendan Morrison were the talk of the league. They were arguably the best line in hockey during the 2002-03 season as the trio not only set career highs, but collectively posted 119 goals and 133 assists for 252 points. Not bad for one line. But since the lockout and the Steve Moore incident, every single one of their careers began to go downhill with a heap of steam.
Today, Todd Bertuzzi is still searching for a team to sign with for the upcoming season, Markus Naslund has announced his retirement, and Brendan Morrison is signed up to play for his fourth team since the start of the 2007-08 season after finding his way through trades and waiver claims. It's difficult to imagine the 34 year olds career to start elevating once again at this stage.
The main critical assement of the trios abilities on and off the ice start and end with the Steve Moore incident. It took place on February 16th of 2004, and following the lockout, none could return to their previous dominance on the ice. Bertuzzi was shipped off to Florida, hoping for a change of scenery, but constant injury problems plagued his career in the Sunshine State. He was then dealt to the Red Wings for a cup run, in which he posted 3 goals in 16 games. Bertuzzi was considered washed out and past his prime. A free agency signing with Anaheim watched the veteran power forward hit a 40 point season, followed by a year with the Calgary Flames with a 15 goal and 44 point campaign.
Naslund's goal totals continued to drop on a year to year basis after the Moore incident. He fell out of the 40+ goal plateau, into a legitimate 30 goal man, but after only 2 years after the unfortunate occurance, Naslund watched his performance dip to a high of 25 goals and no more than 60 points. After one season into his two year deal with the Rangers, Naslund had enough and retired from the game in North America.
Brendan Morrison has found it difficult discovering any sort of chemistry with any team he's played for, including the Canucks, the very team he thrived under after that night on February 16th of 2004. Only once in the last four years has he broken the 20 goal plateau, and while he's known for his playmaking abilities, he's only mustered up 56 assists in his last 120 games. But many believe he still has a chance to be an effective second line player in the NHL. After being claimed on waivers by the Dallas Stars at the deadline, Morrison posted 6 goals and 3 assists in his final 19 games, nearly matching his 10 goal performance throughout his 62 games playing for Anaheim.
The Washington Capitals and their fans know it won't be the 2002-03 Morrison that will be showing up to play on their 2nd line, but they sure would be pleased if he could get a few more years out of his career by breaking out of his 4 year rut. Morrison still has the touch, it's just a matter of his lack of confidence over shadowing his talent.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Monday, July 13, 2009
Morrison Capitalizing on Opportunity
Friday, July 10, 2009
Thursday, July 9, 2009
"Monster" Leafs, Ducks aren't "Finnished"
The Toronto Maple Leafs have come to terms on a 1 year $810,000 contract with swedish goaltender Jonas Gustavsson. The 24 year old is considered the best goaltender outside of the NHL today and looks to prove that he is indeed one of the best goaltenders in the game period. He'll get his chance next season as he joins the Maple Leafs organization as their 1B position in net.
Last season, Gustavsson was far and away the best goaltender in the Swedish Elite League as he posted a 1.96 goals against average and a 0.932 save percentage in the regular season and set a shutout streak record during the playoffs. He's scheduled to become the immediate backup to Vesa Toskala but since it is Toskala's spot to lose, or perhaps Gustavsson's spot to gain, it's difficult to imagine Jonas not playing consecutive nights early in the season.
The Anaheim Ducks also added more veteran presence to the dressing room as long-time friend of Teemu Selanne, Saku Koivu, joins the fold. He signed a 1 year 3.25M dollar contract after spending 13 years in Montreal. It's unlikely the two will play on the same line, but their chemistry in World Hockey events could prove to be the fuel to fire for a great second line scoring tandem.
There are still plenty of options out there for teams in terms of free agent signings as Alex Tanguay, Derek Morris, Todd Bertuzzi, Dennis Seidenberg, Robert Lang, Christian Backman, and god forbid, Mats Sundin are atop the popular names on the market, not including Brendan Shanahan. And if teams want a little grit and more suspensions, the scoring dynamo that is Ryan Hollweg is still waiting by the phone.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Beauchemin in Kaberle out? Good On Senators
Brian Burke was at it again Monday as he signed UFA defenseman Francois Beauchemin to a 3 year 10M dollar contract. The 29 year old adds that much more to the defensive and physical fold the Leafs are currently building. Now if they could only get a stable goaltender in net, Toronto could be a dangerous team to play against next season.
Jonas Gustavsson is expected to make his decision on where he will sign tomorrow. The front runners are the Maple Leafs and Dallas Stars, but with Marty Turco in net for Dallas, you'd have to wonder what would coax the "Monster" in signing on for a year to ride the pine behind Marty.
The Senators also took a splash into free agency on Monday by signing sniper forward Alex Kovalev to a 2 year 10M dollar contract. While it is not a discount of any kind, it's just that much more talent being stripped away from the newly renovated Montreal Canadiens. The decision not to retain past key players such as Sheldon Souray, Mark Streit, Mike Komisarek, Saku Koivu and now Alex Kovalev will prove to either be the best decision Gainey has ever made, or by far the worst.
Also on the Senators front, it's believed that Eugene Melnyk and Brian Murray no longer give a shit about the Heatley fold. They'd like to part ways with the demanding forward, but also understand that making him wait around for a while isn't necessarily a bad thing either. Heatley needs an ego check because it's now as big as his old Ferrari.
The Chicago Blackhawks avoided any possible spills with defenseman Cam Barker by signing him to a 3 year contract today. The NHL concluded it's investigation on the Blackhawks qualifying offers to their RFAs and fearing it would lead to the players becoming UFAs, the Chicago front office jumped the gun and began negotiating deals left and right to lock them up. Maybe next time they'll remember to follow proper procedure instead of chasing down Marion "I'll-never-win-a-cup" Hossa.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Toskala Will Be The Comeback Kid
Vesa Toskala will rebound after his abysmal display of goaltending last season.
The Finnish goaltender was among fan favorites in Toronto during his first season with the Leafs. His flashy, acrobatic style of goaltending proved to be succesful, as he was arguably the Leafs’ most valuable player in the 2007-08 campaign — even ahead of Mats Sundin. Leafs fans were singing his praises, and hopes to attain the Stanley Cup Playoffs suddenly lifted. But when a goaltender, particularly one who relies on his acrobatics, succumbs to nagging groin and hip injuries, well, you get the product Leafs fans had to endure last season. So Toskala was shut down, and was forced to get surgery while Martin Gerber finished off the season — and surprisingly well, too.
So it begs the question: Will Toskala be back to form next season, or will he continue to struggle with injuries, thus rendering him virtually useless considering his style.
Well, opinions vary, and many Leafs fans seem to have forgotten just how good he was during his first season. Personally, I’m willing to bet Toskala will perform brilliantly next season, and will earn the tag of the comeback kid.
In fact, if you ask me, I think the Leafs could have very well been in the playoffs last season if it were not for Toskala’s struggles. Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise, however, as the team has now acquired another highly touted prospect in Nazim Kadri.
But let’s take into consideration Burke’s latest additions to the Leafs’ defense core. With Mike Komisarek and Garnet Exelby added to the mix, Toskala will have the best defensive coverage he’s ever been graced with in Toronto. The Leafs’ defense will no longer be soft and unmenacing in front of the net. Not anymore, baby. Not with Exelby, Komisarek and Schenn guarding the Leafs’ end of the ice. As soon as the opposition crosses the blueline, it’s going to be no holds barred, and for the first time in a long time, the Leafs will be injecting a fresh dosage of fear into their opposition. This means more hits, blocked shots and scrums infront of the net. If Toskala can find the game that made him an effective goaltender two season ago, Toronto will be capable of silencing many of its critics.
It’s also worth noting that, if Burke does manage to acquire Unrestricted Free Agent goaltender Jonas Gustavsson (who is starting to piss me off more than Sundin with his non-decision making), the Leafs won’t be forced to play Toskala the majority of the season due to not having a capable back-up goaltender. If Gustavsson proves to be valuable commodity to the team, then Toskala’s workload could be more suitable to his limits, and he wouldn’t be forced to play with a wonky groin.
Toskala is also a pending UFA next summer, so you can bet he’ll playing with a little more intensity to secure a role as a number one netminder in the NHL.
Thankfully, Toskala will get all the rest he requires this summer after being shut-down during the season. This will give him a chance to fully recover from his nagging groin and hip injuries and, hopefully, make a comeback as the Leafs’ MVP. It’s no secret, however, that groin injuries can often affect a player’s career long-term, so it’s currently uncertain where Toskala’s career will go from here.
If Toskala can find his game again, though, I wouldn’t be surprised if he propels the Leafs into the playoffs. They’d squeak in with the current team intact, of course, but it would still serve as quality experience for a rebuilding club such as the Maple Leafs.
Prediction: Toskala has his best season with the Leafs and will be considered team MVP.
ronguillet@gmail.com
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Leafs' Darkhorse Next Season Will Be...
Jiri Tlusty.
Since the 20 year-old was drafted 13th overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Leafs fans have had high hopes that Tlusty would be a diamond in the rough, and would eventually play a crucial role in the Leafs' top-six.
However, Tlusty has struggled somewhat at the NHL level, posting a disappointing 10 goals and 20 points in 72 games played. But, it's not as if Tlusty has been given ample opportunity to shine, as he has been forced to play bottom-line minutes throughout his tenure with Maple Leafs thus far. Considering the type of game he plays, which does not include a robust defensive style, it's no wonder he hasn't progressed.
As soon as Tlusty was sent down to the Toronto Marlies last season, he flourished under the increased ice-time and responsibility. In fact, he ended up producing 25 goals and 66 points in 66 games played. It's also worth mentioning that he scored 5 goals and 6 points in one of those games as well. Even taking a look at his stats in the 2007-08 season with the Marlies, the then 19 year-old posted 7 goals and 18 points in 14 games played. There's no denying that, when given sufficient ice-time to produce, the Czech native is capable of posting points.
The question now is whether he is capable of translating these stats to the NHL or not. Taking into consideration the Leafs are in the rebuilding phase, I'd say next season will finally determine Tlusty's future with the Buds. Head coach Ron Wilson is aware that he's coming off an impressive season with the Marlies, so you can bet he'll give Tlusty an opportunity to crack the Leafs' top-six come training camp. However, Tlusty may find the task a little more difficult this time around, as there are a fresh new crop of players competing for the same role. Perhaps this is exactly what is needed, however, as the Leafs can now strain the less competitive players from the competitive ones.
While Tlusty lacks your prototypical "Burke-type player" tag, he's still got the potential to become an effective second-line scoring forward in the NHL. He lacks the defensive game to make him a two-way forward, but his speed, playmaking and goal-scoring abilities could make him a valuable commodity to any team looking for an offensive-minded player. And if you think Burke won't hesitate to trade Tlusty based off his style, you're wrong. Sure, Burke loves the sandpaper, grit and toughness implemented to his line-up, but he also understands that offensive players are a necessity if any has aspirations to eventually win the Stanley Cup. After all, he was involved in the Mike Cammalleri sweepstakes on July 1st, was he not?
Personally, I think Tlusty will crack the Leafs' top-six from get-go, and will surprise many observers throughout the season.
Prediction: Tlusty produces 18 goals, 51 points next season.
ronguillet@gmail.com
Friday, July 3, 2009
New Priority: Target Barker, Versteeg
With news breaking about the Chicago Blackhawks possibly making a critical error in filing qualifying offers to Restricted Free Agents Cam Barker, Kris Versteeg, Ben Eager, Colin Fraser, Aaron Johnson and Troy Brouwer, I can't help but think Brian Burke is salivating at the thought of acquiring two players who would strenghten the Leafs' core in an instant.
Those two players are Barker and Versteeg. The pair of twenty-three year-olds are coming off remarkable seasons with the Blackhawks. Barker had a career-year, scoring 6 goals, 34 assists and 40 points. The 6'3, 222 pound offensive defenseman is the kind of player the Leafs could potentially replace Tomas Kaberle with -- should Burke opt to trade him, of course.
Versteeg, who played his first full season in the NHL, performed at a surprising rate, notching 53 points and 22 goals. While he lacks size (5'10, 180 pounds), he is said to have defensive awareness in his own end, which will help him have a lenghty career in the NHL despite his smallish stature. His role in the NHL is yet to be determined, but there's no denying his potential -- 4 goals and 12 points in 17 playoff games, anyone?
Burke, who has close to 10 million dollars in cap space, has the flexibility to not only offer the duo contracts (should they be rendered Unrestricted Free Agents), but to also stay in the hunt for UFA goaltender Jonas Gustavsson, who is believed to make his decision in the coming days.
While Dave Nonis informed the media today that the Leafs are done with signings until the dust settles, you can bet that claim will be withdrawled should the Blackhawks epic fail with their qualifying offers.
Of course, adding another defenseman in Barker would further crowd the Leafs' defense. But no worries, this is the kind of problem GM's pray for. Particularly those whose names start with Bryan and end with Murray.
If Barker joins the mix, then all indications point to the trading of Kaberle, who would presumably be shipped for a young scoring forward.
So let's recap the potential events should the Blackhawks fail to secure their RFA's:
1) Leafs acquire Cam Barker and Kris Versteeg
2) Kaberle traded for a young scoring forward (Phil Kessel?) and/or prospects
Consensus:
Leafs upgrade their defense to a god-like level and acquire forwards to start building the top-six. Epic.
This is probably a dream, of course, but it's fun to speculate. It is a possible scenario, though, so is it really that absurd?
Probably. But hey, at the end of the day it doesn't really matter because I'll still wake up every morning knowing that the Leafs are going to completely manhandle the Montreal Canadiens' Fellowship of the Midgets next season.
ronguillet@gmail.com
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Quick Hits (Leafs, Heatley, Antropov, Beauchemin)
Antropov signs a 4 year 16M dollar contract with the Thrashers, and reports suggest that Ilya Kovalchuk played a significant part in getting this signing done.
The Leafs are now pursuing Manny Malhotra in the UFA sweepstakes in hopes to land his services as the third line center, which is good news or bad news depending on how you look at it for forward Matt Stajan.
There are also a few rumors floating around by the major media outlets suggesting that talks are back on between Chiarelli and Burke regarding movement of Kaberle to the Boston Bruins. That said, the Canucks and Kings are also believed to be interested should either team not land the services of UFA defenseman Francois Beauchemin.
What makes this even more strange is Burke is also in on the bidding for Beauchemin should he move Kaberle. It's getting fishy.
As for the Dany Heatley saga, it's being reported he will make a decision tonight. He refused to waive his NTC last night before the midnight deadline for his 4M dollar bonus because he felt no other organization should be on the hook for a bonus he earned with the Senators. There have also been reports that Heatley purchased a Canadian flag yesterday to celebrate the Canada Day festivities, but he will wait a week before he decides whether or not he wants to wave it.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Leafs Sign Komisarek
The Leafs got rid of Kubina's contract and added Komisarek. I'd call that a good trade off.
Mike Aldred
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
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
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
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
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
Monday, June 29, 2009
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
Friday, June 26, 2009
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
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
Thursday, June 25, 2009
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
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
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.
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
Monday, June 22, 2009
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
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
Sunday, June 21, 2009
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
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
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
Monday, June 15, 2009
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
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
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.
Friday, June 5, 2009
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.
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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Wednesday, June 3, 2009
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.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
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
Monday, June 1, 2009
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
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
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Once A Star, Always A Star
Joe Nieuwendyk will officially be announced as the Dallas Stars new general manager on Monday. “I am very excited about returning to the Dallas Stars as General Manager,” said Nieuwendyk. “I am ready for this opportunity. The Dallas Stars have built a winning tradition over the years and I want to help continue that legacy. My family is very excited about returning to Dallas. I have great memories from my playing days with the Stars and look forward to helping this team win as General Manager.”
Brett Hull will now be Executive Vice President and Alternative Governor and Les Jackson will be the Director of Scouting and Player Development, a role he once held prior to his co-gm position.
Nieuwendyk left his assistant to the general manager position, granted by the Leafs front office, and will look to continue his great hockey knowledge as the lead man in Dallas.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Detroit Takes Game One...Again
Game one is officially in the books, and the Detroit Red Wings have a 1-0 lead thanks to a strong team effort and a couple lucky bounces. The series quickly turns to game two tomorrow night. Will the quick turnaround favour the younger Penguins or will Detroit maintain home ice advantage?
Game Notes
Evgeni Malkin had a strong first period and scattered chances throughout but he was very soft on the puck, having it knocked off his stick several times and was seldom a factor in the third.
Detroit dominated the faceoff circle (39-16) and Pittsburgh will have to improve drastically if they are going to have any chance.
The referees did a fantastic job of managing the game. They maintained control without killing the flow of the game with endless penalties.
The best line of the night was Detroit’s fourth line, specifically Ville Leino and Justin Abdelkader, despite the low minutes played.
Even though he was shaky in the first period, Chris Osgood shook it off and turned in another solid performance, lowering his playoff GAA to 2.00 with a .928 save percentage.
Marian Hossa and Darren Helm used their speed to give the Penguins plenty of trouble. The Penguins attack is definitely missing Hossa.
Both teams combined for only three shots on three power plays. Whichever team that can correct their power play first will win this series.
Even though Pittsburgh outshot Detroit 32-30, Detroit put more shots at goal by a 62-53 margin.
The Wings are now 10-0 in the playoffs when leading after two periods.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Babcock Pulls Datsyuk for Game 1
It’s a rematch of last year’s final with Hossa switching teams and reversing his number 18 to 81 as he joins the Red Wings in their march to a second straight Stanley Cup champagne shower, but they will have to win Game 1 without Pavel Datsyuk. After the morning skate, Datsyuk said he felt great and was ready to play, but once Mike Babcock heard the Russian talking with reporters, he pulled him aside and later released a statement that he would be “unavailable” for tonight’s game.
The Wings hope to repeat as champions just over a decade after they performed that same feat in 1997 and 1998. Datsyuk’s practice “did not look comfortable” according to reporters, most importantly, “lacked mobility”. Datsyuk suffered a foot injury on May 22nd and has been listed as day to day since. He may not play tomorrow for Game 2 either, but he will be listed a game-time decision. Jonathan Ericsson will be joining the club tonight, as well as Nick Lidstrom, but Kris Draper will sit it out to nurse his strained groin for another night.
Ruslan Fedotenko, who has come down with a mild flu, is listed as a game-time decision for tonight. The Pens would love to keep him in the lineup and continue his great chemistry with Maxime Talbot and Evgeny Malkin, but if he is not ready to play at 100% the Penguins are better off keeping him out of the lineup.
I will be liveblogging tonight’s game with Ryan MacIntyre of HockeyJackass.com. He will be taking you the way with the play by play while I chime in with the colour commentary. Hope to see you all there for a fantastic start to this year’s Finals as it truly has come down to the two best teams in the league.
Micheal Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Friday, May 29, 2009
Mike's Take: NHL Combine
Featured on this week's edition of Mike's Take, the NHL Combine has begun for the top 100 prospects of the upcoming Entry Draft, and there's a few interesting tales to be told thus far. This is a detailed assessment of the tests and some of the results of the future NHLers who took part in the gauntlet.
Hello everyone, and welcome to a new edition of Mike's Take. This year's NHL Combine features the likes of OHL superstar John Tavares, and his counterpart, Victor Hedman, who looks to improve his ranking after the weekend's gauntlet. For those who are unsure what the combine is, it's essentially a legal way to drive these draft eligible players into a series of physical and stressful situations while interviewing them to get a good sense of their body capabilities and personality while under pressure.
The Tests:
- Psychological Evaluation
"It included a long series of questions about the prospect's personality (including mental toughness and coachability), and went on to a more grueling mental efficiency test, which measured spatial awareness, decision speed, decision accuracy, concentration, and rates of mental fatigue. The potential draftees took the supervised test in a quiet room set up exclusively for that purpose. An abbreviated version of the mental efficiency portion of the test was then given a second time to each prospect immediately after he completed his fitness testing. The scores under the two conditions were then compared to determine the how much the individual player's reactions decline under stress and fatigue" - Hockey's Future.
- Medical Evaluation
"The medical portion of the testing, which took about a half an hour, included the filling out of a medical form, questions and examination by doctors, photographs of the player, an eye test, and two hand/eye coordination tasks" - Hockey's Future.
- Fitness Testing
The fitness test is the most grueling segment of the entire combine. Each player goes through 18 tests in total, and one test that is considerably stressful on the players is called the "Windgate". What happens is the player has his feet taped to the pedals on a stationary bike. He is then told, in a loud/screaming sort of way, to pedal as fast as he can for 30 seconds. The computer then accurately reads and processes the information on the measurement of explosive speed and fatigue effects of the athlete. Many GMs gather around to watch the screen and record the stats.
Jordan Schroeder, ranked #5 for the draft, vomited right after performing this test. "Everyone will say the bikes are definitely the hardest. You're a little dizzy afterwards", said Schroeder. "A little bit came up - I have to admit, a little bit came up."
The most intense segment of the combine is always the last test for the athletes, and it's known as the VO2 Max test. "VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is one factor that can determine an athlete's capacity to perform sustained exercise and is linked to aerobic endurance. VO2 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen that an individual can utilize during intense or maximal exercise. It is measured as milliliters of oxygen used in one minute per kilogram of body weight" - Sports Medicine. This is all performed on the bike.
While it is a draining exercise, all of the performers quickly regained their composure afterward. John Tavares, who did not do any upper-body tests due to a speculated shoulder injury, did very well on the cycling tests. Brayden Schenn is also believed to have an upper body injury.
Evander Kane, currently ranked #3 for the forwards, matched the day's high with 17 bench presses and 47 push-ups - which was far and away the highest total of the day.
Ryan Bourque, son of NHL hall of famer Ray Bourque, performed excellently on the agility tests in which the athletes jumped around a hexagonal mat.
Ryan Ellis showed up but then was granted permission to leave the testing due to unknown circumstances.
Victor Hedman showed up, and boy is he big. He measured in at 6'7", while Jared Cowen came in at 6'5", both are huge bodied individuals. Hedman was asked, "if you weren't a hockey player, what would you be?" He quickly responded "a pilot", much to the surprise of man around him.
"It's the last week to make an impression", said Hedman. "I'm looking forward to it...I've tried these tests before and I'm never going to quit." Something everyone wants to hear from a future prospect.
Brian Burke was met at the Combine and was asked of his desire to move up in the draft. "I got nowhere with it so far," said Burke. "I didn't think I would so early. There's no progress to report, but I'm not discouraged yet. So far I got nothing to report and no reason to feel positive or encouraged in any way, but that's how it is. The two times I've done this was on the floor. I'm not surprised there's no progress yet. We've got a month. If we have to stay and pick at seven we're content to do that. We're going to try to move up but we're not going to overpay to do it. We think we can get a good player at seven. We're going to try to hit it out of the park like we always do. The fact that we've put a few top prospects in the system doesn't change the desperation that I think you have to have when you go to the draft. Your mentality has to be we have to be successful here. The fact that we added Bozak, Christian … doesn't change that. It doesn't change that hunger you have to have gong into the draft. We have to get better today."
For more information of the process, read Central Scouting's NHL Combine Protocol.
Micheal A. Aldred
michealaldred@hotmail.com
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Here We Go Again
At the end of the Stanley Cup finals last year, Pittsburgh fans were quick to say that they'd be back and their team would win it all. I was quick to say that the Penguins would have a hard road back, and that it was unlikely that they'd do it.
Well, the Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings are both back, ready to pick up where they left off last June. Pittsburgh went through the Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes to reach the Finals again. Detroit defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets, Anaheim Ducks and Chicago Blackhawks.
This year, the Penguins have the one thing everyone felt they lacked last year: experience. They've been here before. Been so close, and had to live through the sting of watching the Wings hoist the Cup in Mellon Arena. That feeling will be an undercurrent through this sequel.
Since being pushed to a seventh game against the Capitals, Pittsburgh has been on a tear. In the five games they've played since (including game seven), they've outscored their opponent 26-11. The closest was game one against the Hurricanes, when they were still a bit spent from an epic series, but still managed to win 3-2.
Detroit, similarly, received a boost from defeating a highly skilled Ducks team that very nearly won. In the Conference finals, despite injuries to Pavel Datsyuk and Nicklas Lidstrom, the Wings cruised to the Finals against a Chicago team that will be a force of the future.
Now the two teams clash again. With the shorter layoff, Pittsburgh might have the upper hand if Detroit's injury problems are serious. Still, you cannot discount the amazing depth of the Wings. And Marian Hossa now gets to experience this matchup from the other side. Both teams had some serious competition, but both made the Finals fairly easily.
So who wins? Which team has all the right pieces, and has enough left in them? Detroit has home ice advantage, and is 8-1 at Joe Louis, but only 4-3 on the road. Pittsburgh is 6-2 at home, and 6-3 on the road. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are running away with playoff scoring, but both teams have six players in double digits. Chris Osgood has better numbers in goal, but Marc-Andre Fleury has played just as well over the past five games. Detroit's power play is converting at 25.7% to Pittsburgh's 19.3%, but Pittsburgh's penalty kill is better at 83.6% to 73.7%.
Regardless of my prediction, fans are going to be treated to another great round of hockey. This year has been phenomenal in that regard. But inevitably, there has to be one champion. I've held this belief since before the season started, so I'm going to see it through.
Prediction: Detroit in seven
Remembering Peter Zezel: A Moment Away From Hockey
Peter Zezel's passing is a tragedy to the hockey world and all those who knew him, but it's also a realization to each individual that we all possess a beating heart, one that is capable of accomplishing many things--even changing the world, one person at a time.
I've never met Zezel personally, but my good friend Bruce "Scoop" Cooper, who has worked in hockey for over four decades in Philadelphia, knew him from the time he was drafted. Scoop enlightened me on many stories involving Zezel, and his bright personality. Zezel was an individual who understood the concept of life. He unraveled its dilemmas by searching within, and as each obstacle was hurdled, he became a stronger person. In the end, it helped him understand the greatest concept of all: If you reach out to someone, and help them realize how special life is, you're not only changing their lives, you are changing hundreds, thousands or even millions.
Let me start by stating that anyone can change the world. Every individual plays their part, and we all have a place in our hearts and minds which enables us to think outside the box, we just have to realize the complexities of life, and the many mysteries it entails. And these mysteries aren't a bad thing, on the contrary, they are the essence of life, and they allow us to push forward.
There's a concept called "pay it forward." This concept, unlike many others we are accustomed to, is perhaps the most important in regards to unraveling the mystery of life. We will never know everything, but instead of sheltering ourselves from the answers, we can help each other--whether it be a good deed, a personal talk, anything. In the end, this helps us not only understand life, but also ourselves, which in turn helps us enjoy the many aspects that makes life such a special place. The key is, you must ask the individual you helped to pass on that wisdom to others, so this feeling (this is the best word to describe its power) may be shared by others.
If you are familiar with the concept, perhaps it is because you viewed the film, which was released in 2000. The film had an inspiring message that everyone, I believe, relates to. The question is, do they realize it yet? Here's a quote I particularly liked:
"What if the world is just a big disappointment? Unless, you take the things that you don’t like about this world, and you flip them upside down."
I believe that every individual has the power to change their thoughts. In order to alter our thought process, however, we must first realize the strengths and weaknesses. Once we do that, it's about training our minds to change. Life was meant to be lived and enjoyed. So why think negative and neglect our minds from happiness and growth? Just think about it, when you see someone who is truly happy, and is successful in life, how do you think they attained that level? By being miserable and unhappy? No, by realizing that WE control our thoughts, and WE have the power to make a difference.
These are all lessons I've learned from my good friend, Scoop. He, like Zezel, understands how to reflect on life, and how to grow as individuals from the many obstacles we all face. The only way we learn is by making mistakes.
While Zezel's passing is a tragic affair, I don't believe his heart has stopped beating. It beats. It beats in all the individuals he helped during his rewarding life.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Colton Orr: Yes Orr No?
(I apologize for the title, I like the lame ones, what can I say?)
July 1st and onward should be marked with an abundance of quality signings, but I’m hoping the Toronto Maple Leafs invest in a minor signing that could pay major dividends. Colton Orr is the perfect enforcer for the Leafs, let’s bring him to Toronto, Brian Burke!
While Andre Deveaux has proved to be a tough customer during his call-ups with the Leafs, he is still a rookie in the NHL. He’s not, at this point, a legitimate enforcer the Leafs can count on to alter the momentum of a game.
Colton Orr? Yeah, I guess you could say he’s a little dirty, but he’s also one badass motha. He’ll drop the gloves with best of them, and that is precisely what the Leafs need. Many may argue that fighting is a dying aspect of the game, and that Orr is not worth the roster spot. To those people, I say drop the flowers and clench the fists, because fighting is still a necessity, especially if the team’s roster consists largely of young players. Sure, a bone-crushing hit is always nice, but what happened to the days when the problems out on the rink were settled with a good ol’ fashioned tussle?
I, for one, am sick and tired of watching Jamal Mayers fight the oppositions enforcers and pests. The Leafs need a George Laraque, someone who instills fear into the opponents, and will make them think twice before laying out a Mikhail Grabovski.
Orr is 27 and his salary would be south of one million dollars. He possesses a menacing 6’3, 220 pound frame, and he ranked third in PIM’s with 193. He also landed 133 hits, which is fairly impressive considering he averaged 6:29 of ice-time per game. Cheap, effective and Leafs fans get to be entertained by some fisticuffs. What’s not to love?
Considering the Leafs are a youth-orientated team, I think it is crucial to implement an enforcer to line-up night-in and night-out. He can protect the youth and instill confidence in players like Grabovski and others. That, and since this is Burke’s team now, some toughness is definitely in order.
Still not convinced? I’ll let Orr’s right hand do the talking. He is the equivalent of the Incredible Hulk.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iCbCt3wwhM
Enough said.
ronguillet@gmail.com
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Top Priority: Mike Komisarek
In the midst of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, perhaps it’s a little early to discuss the possibility of the Toronto Maple Leafs splurging in this year’s Unrestricted Free Agent crop by acquiring Mike Komisarek. But hey, four consecutive years of missing the post-season will do that, and speculation is always fun, so let’s discuss!
Komisarek has been a serviceable defensive defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, no doubt about it. Ever since he completed his first full season with the Canadiens back in the 2005-06 campaign, Habs fans have been privy to the defensive abilities #8 brings to the ice. While he lacks offensive skills, and his potential in the department is limited, he made it to the NHL because of his defensive play. Komisarek excels specifically in hits and defensive zone coverage. In fact, at the end of the 2007-08 campaign, he led all defensemen with 227 blocked shots, and finished second in hits with 266.
This season, however, many Canadiens fans have criticized the 27 year-old of poor play in his own end, and have questioned whether or not it is worth offering him a contract extension. Living in a household of Canadiens fans, I can say I’ve seen my fair share of Habs hockey. I’ve always been a fan of Komisarek’s game, and have regarded him as a top defensive defenseman in the NHL during the past few years. Like all defensive defensemen, Komisarek is underappreciated and gets little notice around the league (besides Pierre Maguire, that is). However, Komisarek did have a disappointing season, no question. He still led the Canadiens in hits with 191, (ranked 25th overall) but it’s a serious downgrade from his 266 last season. In the blocked shots category, he finished with 207 (ranked 4th overall). He was also ranked 7th overall in giveaways with 89, which is obviously considering for a player of his type. That is 29 more giveaways than he had in the 2007-08 season. It’s also worth mentioning that the Canadiens struggled this season, and few players (even Carey Price) struggled to find success, so this could easily be a bump in the road.
All that said, it must be mentioned that he is still young, and defensemen generally take more time to develop. Komisarek’s upcoming seasons will be huge in terms of his development as a defensive defenseman in the NHL. He has the potential to be one of the meanest and toughest defensemen, (as mentioned, see stats of 07-08 season) but some hard work is definitely in order. If you ask me, patience would go a long way for Komisarek. He often finds himself in trouble by making rash decisions when under pressure from the opposition. If he could attain a little more poise, it would propel his defensive game to new levels.
Pertaining to the Leafs’ off-season plan, I think it would benefit them immensely to sign a player like Komisarek. He’s young, and he’s got potential; should fit right into Brian Burke’s regime. His price tag may be a little high, but considering he struggled this season, it shouldn’t be anything near baffling. If he does work out, he’d be a serviceable defenseman once the rebuilding phase is complete. That, and I’m giddy like a school girl thinking about a Luke Schenn - Komisarek pairing on the PK unit.
What do you think?
ronguillet@gmail.com
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