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Ken Holland gambled on the gimpy groin over the gimpy back. After dismissing the notion of signing veteran goalie Ed Belfour, Detroit's GM has rested the team's hopes on veteran keeper Dominik Hasek. Hasek signed a one year contract with the Red Wings.
Hasek has been jobless since the Senators signed Martin Gerber to replace him, following a season that was going well for him till he succumbed to injuries in the first game of the Olympics in February. Hasek never appeared in uniform for the Senators again after that. He did win 28 games for the Senators and had the second best save percentage and GAA in the league.
If Hasek can remain healthy (huge IF! This is a Lindros level IF) this guy can steal games, and whole playoff series. However, we saw what happens when he gets hurt. Recovery time, at his age is extensive, and often season ending. The Red Wings should use him sparingly with Osgood, and might consider platooning them, rather than having a designated #1 and backup goalie. Overall it was a risky movie by the Red Wings, but what options did Ken Holland really have? I'm sure the trade route was considered, but much like Lamoriello is going to discover, that once your trade counterparts know you are desperate, the price climbs.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Buffalo Sabres now only have 3 players remaining headed to arbitration after re-signing center Paul Gaustad to a two year deal worth $1.425 million. The Sabres J.P. Dumont has an arbitration hearing scheduled for today, and Maxim Afinogenov on Thursday.
Anaheim accepts arbitration award on Vishnevski
Vitaly Vishnevski will be staying with the Ducks, at least for now. The Ducks accepted Vishnevski's arbitration award of $1.55 million for one year. Brian Burke has been rumored to be shopping the big defenceman, and is still looking to move him after reluctantly accepting the award. Vishnevski's camp would also like a trade because the arbitration hearing was on the unfriendly side......arbitration always brings out the best in everyone.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
About a year ago the boys from The Face Off Hockey Show had Director Chris Toltzman on to discuss his new documentary called Road Hogs. Road Hogs follows the exploits of a Double-A Minor League hockey club, called the Rockford Ice Hogs, during the away games of their 2004-2005 season. The same year that brought us the NHL lockout. After about 5 minutes the guy had me sold, and I had to see this movie. So I pre-ordered the dvd and waited patiently by the mailbox.
Road Hogs is a terrific look at the hardships these unpampered hockey players endure throughout the travel portion of their season. No private jets and manicured meals for these guys. They get a bus, which they can be on for up to 10 hours depending on their opponent, and a roadside meal provided by Steak and Shake! Yeah! There is also outstanding coverage of the actual games, including the one where Chris Chelios and Derian Hatcher decided to try out the minor leagues, the Vallentines Day pink ice game (I think that was Vegas), and pretty much everything else the FOHS boys covered that year. It was a nice compliment to their broadcasts.
Road Hogs is a great view for even the casual hockey fan, but if you are infected, as I am, you will love this movie. For more information on the movie and how to order it, visit RoadHogsTheMovie.com.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
According to reports from TSN.ca, Real Estate Broker Sam Fingold signed a letter of intent yesterday to purchase the Pittsburgh Penguins. The deal will be worth around $175 million.
Originally, Fingold was interested in moving the Penguins to Kansas City, and there were rumors about the Penguins going to Hartford, Connecticut, where his business is currently located. However, the good news about the sale is that Sam Fingold is committed to keeping the team in Pittsburgh, and will also seek to get a new arena for the team.
If the deal goes through Sam Fingold will be obtaining a young team which will eventually be one of the most explosive rosters in the league. The future is certainly a bright one for the Penguins, and it could be gettting brighter.
Sabres avoid arbitration with Connolly
You have to hand it to Darcy Regier. This guy probably hasn't slept in weeks. A dozen players slated for arbitration and only Daniele Briere's case has been heard, all other cases have been avoided by signing long term agreements with the players. The latest, is center Tim Connolly. Connolly signed a 3 year deal worth $8.9 million. Another Sabre that had a carerr year, Connolly scored 16 goals and 39 assists in 63 games.
Ottawa re-signs Schaefer
Ottawa followed the Oilers playbook and avoided all the arbitration hearings schedule. Peter Schaefer the last player on the card, signed a 4 year deal worth $8.4 million. Schaefer also had a career season, scoring 20 goals and 30 assists. He was also on my fantasy team and kicked some butt for the Bosher.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
On 35 more Sabres players to go! That is a slight exaggeration. The Buffalo Sabres were looking at 12 arbitration cases, but have managed to sign Ales Kotalik, Henrik Tallinder, Andrew Peters, and Brian Campbell prior to their hearings. Defenceman Toni Lydman and forward Jason Pominville are the latest pair to avoid arbitration by signing long term deals with the Sabres yesterday.
Toni Lydman, signed a 4 year deal worth $11.5 million just before his hearing was to begin yesterday. Jason Pominville scheduled for arbitration today, signed a 3 year deal worth $3.1 million.
Both players are coming off of terrific seasons. Lydman is one on the Sabres top defencemen and had a goal and 5 assists during Buffalo's playoff run. Pominville led rookie scoring during the playoffs with 5 goals and 5 assists.
Kyle Calder awarded $2.95 million
Chicago Blackhawks forward Kyle Calder was awarded a one year contract worth $2.95 million by and arbitrator. Calder had a career season last year scoring 26 goals and 59 points.
It looks as though arbitrators used Mike York's case as a benchmark for Calder to determine his award. Essentially, every year it seems as though one player get's signed (let's say Alex Tanguay for instance) and the market price is then set for the rest of the league. Whether they like it or not, it becomes the standard.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Lou is playing a dangerous game. The salary cap era has not been a kind one to the former GM of the year. The Devils by accepting Scott Gomez's salary arbitration award of $5 million for next year, effectively puts the team over the $44 million salary cap. The Devils still have to sign star forward Brian Gionta and defenceman Paul Martin. Teams with salary cap room, will be able to underbid Lamoriello and the Devils now in trade talks, and it's unlikely the Devils will fair value in return. Thus is the new NHL.
As I said yesterday, there are several players that are untouchable. However I think that list is a short one. Elias, Brodeur, Gomez, and perhaps Rafalski (although I think he may be moved)....after that, I wouldn't get too comfortable.
Leetch to re-sign with Bruins?
Perhaps. Rumors are abound that he is also being courted by the Rangers and Red Wings. However, after the recent signing of Markov, I doubt that Detroit needs or wants another 40 year old blue liner.
Jay Bouwmeester awarded $4.35 million
Young defenceman Jay Bouwmeester was awarded a two year deal in which he would make $2.1 million the first year, and $2.25 million the season after. This is a no-brainer for Florida.
Snow Job
No not Raffi Torres....the Garth Snow era has begun in Uniondale! As far as easy decisions, this one was cake, and very good for the organization. Snow, the new GM of the Islanders accepted the arbitrators award to Mike York of a one year deal worth $2.85 million that was made earlier this week.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Tonight's Show:
July 26th Show
Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey
Tom Mascioli from Isles Info
TONIGHT AT 9PM EST!!
Click here to listen.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Scott Gomez has been awarded a one year arbitration settlement of $5 million. Gomez had his best season in 2005-2006, scoring 84 points in 82 games, and has been a mainstay forward for the Devils since his Calder Trophy winning season in 1999-2000. The question here is not Gomez's value. The $5 million award is probably the most spot on ruling ever. The big question here is how do the Devils afford to keep him? The Devils salaries ( estimates listed below from TSN.ca), are closing in on $44 million, just a few bucks shy of the cap. This doesn't include Gomez's recent $5 million award.
Patrik Elias $7.5 million
Martin Brodeur $5.2 million
Brian Rafalski $4.2 million
John Madden $3.893 million
Vladimir Malakhov $3.6 million
Alexander Mogilny $3.5 million
Colin White $3 million
Jamie Langenbrunner $2.8 million
Dan McGillis $2.2 million
Sergei Brylin $1.52 million
Richard Matvichuk $1.368 million
Brad Lukowich $1 million
Jason Wiemer $950,000
Jay Pandolfo $836,000
Grant Marshall $760,000
Zach Parise $703,000
Cam Janssen $450,000
Michael Rupp $450,000
Right now Lou Lamoriello has to be kicking himself for that $7 million tied up in Alexander Mogilny and Vladimir Malakhov, two players who weren't on the roster at seasons end this year. Lamoriello is going to have move some players, or Gomez himself. The unfortunate thing is that he is in a very weak bargaining position, as everyone is aware that he needs to dump salary. There will undoubtedly be a Jeff Friesen type trade made again (I believe he was shipped to Washington for a quesadilla) to free up cap space. Lamoriello's biggest issue isn't just Gomez, he also has to sign Devils all time regular season leading goal scorer Brian Gionta, and defensemen Paul Martin and David Hale.
Playoff Beard Prediction: The Devils will keep Gomez. I believe they will also sign Gionta and Martin. I suspect, players like Madden, Rafalski, Matvichuk and Langenbrunner to become expendable.
The Eagle lands in Florida
Finally! After weeks of speculation and posturing, UFA goalie Ed Belfour has signed a one year $750,000 contract with the Florida Panthers. The contract includes performance incentives that if achieved could double his base salary. At 41 years of age Belfour will most likely backup goaltender Alexander Auld and appear in limited situations so as not to aggrivate his surgically repaired back.
Oilers avoid arbitration altogether
3 players, and 3 potential arbitration hearings avoided before the zero hour. Ales Hemsky was the last Oiler slated for arbitration and like his predeccessors Horcoff and Stoll signed a contract prior to the hearing. The Oilers signed Hemsky to e 6 year deal worth $24.6 million. Ales Hemsky had a breakout year with 19 goals and 58 assist and led the team in scoring with 77 points. Hemsky was stellar in the playoffs for the Oilers as well with 17 points in 24 games. Kevin Lowe should be named GM of the year. I love what this guy is doing with this team, and the results of his work this year were very apparent.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Not a bad couple of months for Mark Recchi. Get traded at the deadline, from a bottom feeding team in the Pittsburgh Penguins, to a legitimate Cup Contender in the Carolina Hurricanes. Three months later you've won your second Stanley Cup with the Hurricanes, shaved your playoff beard (which was breathtaking I might add) and a month after that you return home to Pittsburgh and come full circle as a true rent-a-player. Man, John LeClair must be pissed! Pulling a page from the Doug Weight handbook, Recchi returns to the team that essentially helped hand him a Stanley Cup ring.
For what it's worth, he was definitely a big part of the Hurricanes scoring 16 points (7 goals and 9 assists) over the 25 game Cup run. In Pittsburgh he will most likely provide veteran leadership to a squad of young up and coming players and perhaps anchor one of the top two lines. It is pretty honorable of him to return their after all that organization has done for him, especially in the past few months.
L.A. Kings re-sign Sean Avery
The Kings have re-signed forward Sean Avery to a 1 year deal worth $1.1 million. Avery was headed to arbitration but he and the Kings managed to avoid going to the hearing with the early contract signing. Sean Avery didn't finish the season with the Kings as he was suspended for the final three games after having words with assistant coach Mark Hardy during workouts. GM Dean Lombardi was quoted as saying "We are very happy to have avoided arbitration with Sean Avery and have him in the fold for another year. He greatly increases our jackass depth of the team, and we look for him to provide ample penalty minutes, game misconducts and suspensions".
Rumor has it the Kings are looking to sign currently incarcerated St. Louis Blues forward Mike Danton once he's available for parole.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Ok maybe that was a stretch, but as expected, Buffalo Sabres forward Daniel Briere landed a huge arbitration settelement of $5 million for one year. Buffalo had been trying to work out a long term deal with Briere prior to arbitration, and had also been rumored to be shopping him in case of an unfavorable settlement. Arbitration usually tends to favor the player, rather than the team, unless the player in question is a real Daigle. However that individual usually will not file for arbitration and accept a qualifying offer or whatever is tendered rather than put their case before an arbitrator. Buffalo has the standard 48 hours to either accept or decline Briere's award. If they decline he will immediately become an unrestricted free agent which is highly unlikely. If accepted he will become a UFA following this season. If Buffalo can't work out a long term deal, I would expect to see him shopped.
Unlike a lot of fans, I think this salary is justified. Granted the guy didn't play a full season last year (only 48 games due to injury) he still managed to score 58 points (25 goals, 33 assists). The playoffs this year I believe is where his character really shown through. In 18 playoff games he scored 8 goals, and 11 assists and helped Buffalo get to the Easter Conference Finals by defeating Ottawa, and Philadelphia. No small task for this player, and the team.
The Sabres did manage to sign forward Ales Kotalik to a 3 year $7 million deal and avoid going to arbitration with the player this week. Given that, and Briere's case, there are only 7 players remaining to have their cases heard.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Garth Milbury, I mean Snow, has to make his first personnel decision since taking the Islander's General Manager position. Islanders forward Mike York was awarded a one year deal worth $2.85 million for next season by an arbitrator and the Isles have 48 hours to accept the offer or decline it which will immediately make Mike York an unrestricted free agent.
Garth Snow had this to say following the arbitrators award (from TSN.ca):
''We respect the arbitrator's decision and appreciate the process that led to the one-year award for Mike, a player we think the world of,'' Islanders general manager Garth Snow said in a statement. ''It was our intention prior to the hearing to sign him to a long-term deal, and it remains our hope to have Mike York in an Islanders uniform for years to come.''
As far as testing the GM waters, this has to be the easiest decision Snow will ever make. Mike York made $2.05 million last year, and at a slight bump to $2.85 is still a bargain. You sign this kid, it's a no brainer. If Snow let's him walk he will be picked up by the end of the week as a UFA. Trading Mike York to Edmonton was probably the worst move Glen Sather has made as GM of the New York Rangers (and he has made a truck load of them)....I would love to see this kid come back home.
Bufalo Sabres forward Daniele Briere's arbitration award is expected some time today, and that would could hit $6 million.
Thanks to my buddy Jeff for the headline.....actually I have a month's worth from him....so as long as Garth Milbury keeps making news.....the entertainment will never stop.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Oilers and Sabres managed to lighten their arbitration load today. Well Buffalo did slightly. They locked up defenceman Henrik Tallinder and avoided bringing his case to arbitration slated for next week. Terms of his deal were not disclosed. Tallinder was a rock for Buffalo during the playoffs with a +14 rating that was tied for league best. Buffalo still has 9 more players to sign in order to avoid their arbitration hearings. The list includes:
Maxim Afinogenov
Daniel Briere
Tim Connolly
J.P. Dumont
Paul Gaustad
Ales Kotalik
Toni Lydman
Adam Mair
Jason Pominville
The Oilers made news by signing center Jarret Stoll to a $4.4 million contract over 2 years. Stoll's case would have gone to arbitration on Monday. Stoll finished the regular season with 22 goals and 46 assists. During 24 games in the playoffs he had 4 goals, and 6 assists.
Edmonton has only one player remaining headed to arbitration in Ales Hemsky. His case is slated for July 28th, and I expect the Oilers to sign him well before then (unless his demands are unreasonable) like they did with Stoll, and Shawn Horcoff.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Another week, and another team has turned it's back on Ed Belfour. After a succesful workout with the Florida Panthers yesterday, rumors were abound that a deal to sign him as a backup to Alex Auld were all but certain. Certainly not! Florida is the second team to end negotiations with the aging netminder, after talks broke down in Detroit last week.
Perhaps it's time for Belfour to hang them up? Unless he's willing to swallow his pride, and his price tag, I doubt there are few teams willing to bring him on board. However, as a backup to a young goalie like Columbus' Pascal LeClaire, or Pittsburgh's Marc Andre Fleury, Belfour could be a great asset. At least at how to show the youngsters how to party and bribe officers of the law.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Yes it's that time of year when teams face off against their players and unbiased third parties award settlements that ultimately the Boston Bruins will walk away from.
The NHL Arbitration period begins today, and Daniel Briere is one of 10 whopping cases the Buffalo Sabres will have to chew on. Arbitration is a nasty time for both parties, as NHL clubs have to argue that the player in question is not worth much, while said player counters with his value and an arbitrator will pick a $ figure usually somewhere in the middle. The negotiations however can soil future relationships, and derail hopes of signing players for longer deals in the year that follows. Many teams try to address this concern by re-signing players before the zero hour.
On the card for today and tomorrow are Buffalo's Daniel Briere, San Jose's Mark Smith and the newsworthy Islander's Mike York. Good luck Garth!
One of the big cases to keep an eye on will be Scott Gomez of the New Jersey Devils. His arbitration could be a backbreaker for Lou Lamoriello and the Devils, and may force an abundance of player movement since his team is dangerously close to the salary cap.
For a complete list of the players currently slated for arbitration hearings click here.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
TSN.ca is reporting that Ed Belfour is close to signing a one year deal with the Florida Panthers. Provided Ed Belfour passes his physical the Panthers will sign him to a deal worth $1.5 million.
Although not the same goaltender he used to be, Belfour in a limited role could be a great backup, or even manage a platoon style rotation with Alex Auld, the recently acquired goalie in the Luongo / Bertuzzi trade. However, if he is overworked, that back will go down like a Value Jet.
Detroit Red Wings look to be losing out, or perhaps better off... depending on your point of view. They will be better off acquiring a goalie through trade. There are several viable options out there in David Aebischer, Vesa Toskala, or Evgeni Nabokov, and J.S. Giguere. Dominik Hasek could still be on the table too.
Islanders Fallout
Obviously the biggest news here in New York is the revolving door of the Islander's front office. Evan Grossman of the NY Post brought up some interesting points regarding new GM Garth Snow's responsibilities. Snow's first duties will be to head to arbitration with players he was just playing with, and trying to re-sgin his buddy Rick DiPietro. Talk about getting your feet wet! For more on this story click here.
NY Daily News writer John Dellapina also covers this mess. Apparenlty Islanders owner Charles Wang envisioned a GM by committee which included LaFontaine, Bryan Trottier, Ted Nolan and Neil Smith.....and that situation was less than welcomed by the man with the title. Wang saw problems growing worse, rather than getting better, and opted to address it now. For more on this report click here.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
What is happening in Uniondale?
Pat LaFontaine is the latest casualty on Long Island. Reports from TSN.ca are that he tendered his resignation to Charles Wang following the press conference detailing the dismissal of Neil Smith. There is only that is 100% certain right now.
Ted Nolan is freaking out!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Ok now I'm shocked! WHOAH! Milbury is definitely still running the show, because this is ridiculous! Charles Wang was really impressed with Garth Snow's passion and knowledge.
Right now, all I have to say is that this screams puppet! Milbury must have talked Wang into the move for two reasons. First, Neil Smith most likely had his own agenda, and went about building the Islanders in his vision, taking little to no direction from Milbury. Second, what the hell does Garth Snow know about being a GM?!?! Snow was undoubtedly praised by Milbury to Wang, who eventually saw fit to hire him. Snow, will no doubt be the face of Milbury's madness. The NHL's own version of Master Blaster.
Here are Wangs comments on why Neil Smith was let go (from ESPN.com)
Wang said a difference in philosophy led to Smith's dismissal.
"As I made clear at the press conference last month, we are running this as a business, incorporating the opinions of our hockey operations staff -- including Ted Nolan, Bryan Trottier and Pat LaFontaine. Despite Neil's commitment to me that he could work in this environment, he later expressed to me on a number of occasions his philosophical opposition to our business model.
"In light of our differences, I felt that I had no choice but to make this decision in the best interests of the Islanders and our fans. I'm very proud of our draft and the roster additions our staff made this month. Our fans should know that with Ted, Garth, Bryan and Pat helping to lead the way, the Islanders are in very good hands."
and here is the un-edited version:
Wang said a difference in philosophy (with Milbury) led to Smith's dismissal.
"As I made clear at the press conference last month, we are running this as a business, incorporating the opinions of our hockey operations staff -- including Ted Nolan, Bryan Trottier and Pat LaFontaine (and especially Mike Milbury). Despite Neil's commitment to me that he could work in this environment (under the watchful gaze of Milbury), he later expressed to me on a number of occasions his philosophical opposition to our business model (Milbury).
"In light of our differences (with Milbury), I felt that I had no choice but to make this decision in the best interests of the Islanders and our fans (and Mike Milbury). I'm very proud of our draft and the roster additions our staff (Milbury) made this month. Our fans should know that with Ted, Garth, Bryan and Pat helping to lead the way, the Islanders are in very good hands (Milbury's)."
Islander fans, I'm sorry. I thought you guys were out of the woods finally, but you just got dragged right back into it and appear ready to reap the rewards of another joke GM. Milbury cannot be stopped....at least not with conventional weapons!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
General Manager Neil Smith, who was hired by the New York Islanders to replace Mike Milbury has apparently been fired. No details of why are known as of yet, but you can find out more about the story at TSN.ca.
As shocking as this story should be to me, it doesn't really surprise. Mike Milbury although not the GM is still part of the organization, and when he is around, nothing should come really surprise us. This man has made a career out of destroying this organization. I can only assume that he has Charles Wang's family held hostage somewhere.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
One day after losing Eric Lindros to the Dallas Stars, the Maple Leafs have found his successor in Michael Peca. An announcement expected later today, Michael Peca has reportedly agreed to a one year $2.5 million contract.
Peca played terrible last year, but rumor has it he begged MacT not to trade him at the deadline, and turned his season around....just in time to help the Oiler's march for the cup. Michael Peca had a strong playoffs, scoring 6 goals and 5 asssists during the Oilers' run, but his real strength was in his physical play, which really set the tone for the team.
Sure he's great physically, and defensively, but offensively, I don't really see him filling the role that Lindros, and Jason Allison once occupied for the Leafs. Both were projects for the Leafs that turned out decent results, particularly Allison, who scored 17 goals, and 43 assists in 66 games. Granted he was a -18, but who on the Leafs wasn't last year? Peca has some big shoes to fill in Toronto, and like Lindros desired a return to his home town. Perhaps he will stay longer than a Molson.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
After 48 hours of on an off reports it looks as though the E train is heading south...for real this time. Click here for the full report.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
According to reports earlier today, Lindros had signed a one year deal with the Dallas Stars. TSN.ca is now reporting that a deal has yet to be finalized, but Dallas Stars sources hope to have it completed as early as today.
The Maple Leafs apparently low-balled the Big E by offering half of what he made last year, a one year deal worth $750,000. One can hardly blame the Leafs as they only saw him in the lineup for 33 games, and are close to facing cap problems due to some poor salary management.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Dallas Stars have just signed center Eric Lindros to a one year deal worth $1.55 million. The deal apparently has performance incentives. It would be nice to see him achieve them too. For Dallas, this is a high risk, high reward signing. Lindros will be playing in the West for the first time in his career, which might offer him some more space. He will also be centering the Stars second line, which will also give him ample opportunity to flourish. If he can remain healthy I think Lindros will be a valuable asset to the team. That's always been the big issue for him. When healthy, he's one of the best players in the game. Lindros however, is rarely healthy.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Shawn Horcoff and the Oilers avoided salary arbitration as both parties agreed to a 3 year deal worth $10.8 million. Horcoff had a career year this season, scoring 22 goals and 51 assists in 79 games. He had 19 points during the Oilers playoff run that saw them miss winning the Stanley Cup by one game. He was a big part of that run and will remain a big part of the Oilers future for a few years.
Kevin Lowe in a very short amount of time has become one of the premiere GM's in the league. I think that his limited budget during the pre-salary cap NHL has really given him a leg up on his counterparts. I expect the Oilers to be a contender for years to come with this guy at the helm.
Flyers re-sign Pitkanen
The Flyers have re-signed defenceman Joni Pitkanen to a one year deal. Pitkanen has consistantly improved into a top 4 defenceman and last year had a career season with 13 goals and 33 assists.
Capitals sign Brashear
NHL tough guy Donald Brashear has found a new home. Many thought the big man would not be re-signed, but the Capitals have aquired the pugilist to toughen up their ranks as well as give their star forward Alexander Ovechkin some extra breathing room. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, so I suspect DB is getting the league minimum.
Panthers sign three
The Florida Panther signed Alexander Auld, a satellite in the Bertuzzi / Luongo deal last month, to a one year $1.475 million contract. Auld was steady for the Canucks last year, and should do well for the Panthers, but I think Keenan will probably look to deal for another netminder. The Florida Panthers also resigned forward Stephen Weiss and defenceman Alexei Semenov.
Who wants some Lindros?
Apparently Eric Lindros has plenty of suitors. A shadow of his former self, and a player who has not competed in an entire season in over a decade (thats a guess, but I'm thinking it's a pretty good one) is still a very attractive free agent to some teams. The Dallas Stars, the most vocal of these, have been trying to sign Lindros to become their second line center. There are also rumors that the Islanders have interest in him and he also had a meeting with Kevin Lowe and the Oilers, which Lowe of course vehemently denied.....yeah, and Chris Pronger didn't ask for a trade right? When healthy (big issue), Lindros can still compete. The guy started off great for the Leafs before succumbing to wrist injuries. If he is willing to swallow some pride and sign an incentive laden contract, I think he could be a great pickup for some teams. Any of the above mentioned teams would be great for him. Dallas would be a great fit.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Rangers welcomed their newest addition at a press conference yesterday. Brendan Shanahan donned the blue and confirmed that he would like to stay longer than a year if things work out. It appears that the one year contract was a to feel out both the player and the organization for both parties. If things work out the relationship could continue.
Shanahan although on the surface appears to be a move that the same old Rangers would have made, but I think this time it's different. Unlike the Devils, the Rangers have been very stingy regarding the length of contracts they hand out. Shanahan's deal is for one year, and yes is a gamble, but one I think well worth it. The guy is coming off a 40 goal season, and if he can reproduce a season similiar to that this year, I think everyone will be happy. Brendan Shanahan is also not joining a group of mercs that until last season was the bulk of the Rangers team from 1998 to 2004. Shanahan is joining a team. Something we haven't seen in New York in a long time. I think his addition, as well as that of Ward and Cullens will work out well this year. For more on this report check out the NY Post.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The biggest name left on the board has finally found a home. The Montreal Canadiens have signed free agent forward Sergei Samsonov to a two year deal. What a compliment this guy will be to fellow Russian winger Alexei Kovalev. If he can remain healthy, this pair should be explosive next season.
The Habs also re-signed goalie David Aebischer to a one year deal worth $1.9 million. This is a good move in many aspects. Aebischer had a good season for the Avs and the Habs, until Cristobal Huet took over the reigns. However the sophomore curse could strike Huet (even though he is hardly a sophomore) and Aebischer will be good to have around in case he falters. If he doesn't, Aebischer will be a much sought after by other teams seeking an upgrade in net (see Detroit, and Toronto...no offense to Raycroft....unless he can stop said offense).
Why stop there? The Canadiens also traded Richard Zednik to the Washington Capitals for a 3rd round pick in next years draft, and also acquired forward Mike Johnson from the Phoenix Coyotes for a 4th rounder next year.
Concussions forcing Primeau towards retirement?
Hopefully not, but the big man is apparently still suffering from post-concussion syndrome and is being forced to make a decision soon due to the cap space he currently occupies on the Flyer's roster. Perhaps, some of Forsberg's good luck will rub off on him.
Darryl Sutter steps down as coach of Flames
Darryl Sutter has handed the coaching reigns to assistant Jim Playfair, so he can focus on his general management duties. Sutter maintains that he will still be very vocal about the on ice product with Playfair. I think the combo GM / Coach position is going to be a thing of the past in the new NHL. Managing a team, and a salary cap, and coaching is really too much responsibility for one individual to handle, effectively anway. Sutter's move is a good one for the organization and a very selfless move.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
My thanks to the Moustache for sending this one in! Click here to view the 2006-2007 NHL Schedule.
Is it too soon to get excited about this? I think not. Yes the season just ended a few weeks ago, but let's face it, baseball sucks, and aside from a month of crappy pre-season football, the summer gives us nothing. But now we can prepare for the puck to hit the ice on October 4th, 2006!
Opening night includes matchups between the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes, and what could be their newest rival Buffalo Sabres. The Senators will be handily destroying the Maple Leafs and the Stars and Avalanche will meet to cap off the evening.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Tonight's Show:
July 12th Show
Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey
TONIGHT AT 9PM EST!!
Click here to listen.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Well it is now anyway! The Philadelphia Flyers have found out that their star forward Peter Forsberg won't require surgery on his other ankly effectively cutting his rehabilitation time in half, and making him available for a possible return in October. Great news for the Flyers and for Simone Gagne, and Mike Knuble who had amazing years while riding shotgun on this perennial playoff beard Norris Trophy contender.
Sharks goalie requesting a trade?
Not yet, but San Jose Sharks goaltender Vesa Toskala hopes he or Evgeni Nabokov is dealt prior to the beginning of next season. In all fairness, both are number 1 keepers, and it appears that Toskala is getting eager to shoulder the burden of time in net, rather than platoon it with Nabokov. Ken Holland should pick up the phone. He now has another option rather resting the hopes of the Red Wings season on Belfour or Hasek. I still maintain that he should make a play for David Aebischer of the Habs, or one of the Sharks keepers. Kevin Weekes of the New York Rangers could also be another option. Lots of keepers with healthy groins and backs.
Lightning sign Richardson
Luke Richardson has signed a one year deal worth $500k. Richardson was brought in to soothe the loss of Darryl Sydor whom the Lightning had to deal back to Dallas due to salary cap concerns. The Lightning already appear to be another team feeling the pinch of the new salary cap NHL. Ottawa and New Jersey are two other teams who have had to deal, or going to have to deal players as they approach the cap ceiling.
I think some of these teams should consider hiring cap consultants from the NFL, a league which has had a salary cap in place since the 1980s (pretty certain about that one, correct me if I'm wrong). GM John Muckler has already come out complaining about the restrictions of the cap this week, and I'm sure he won't be the last. This is the only way the league was going to persevere, so rather than fight it, Muckler, and others better embrace it. Get a better accountant, and some long-term vision.
Rescue Me
This is a great show. If you guys aren't watching, I recommend you start. Dennis Leary (who just got nominated for an Emmy in the series) is one of the best voices the NHL has, and spares no effort promoting hockey through Rescue Me almost every episode. Whether it be as simple as a giant NHL sticker in his locker, to last night's deck hockey game at Chelsea Piers which saw Leary's team play against the great Phil Esposito and his squad. Espo, isn't the first NHL'er that has made a cameo appearance. Cam Neely often shows up as the goon on the fire house's ice hockey team. Dennis Leary does such a great job supporting the NHL, I felt it only fair to return the support. Rescue Me airs on Tuesday night's 10PM EST on the FX Network. Check it out, you won't be disappointed.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed their stud defenseman and former first round pick Mike Komisarek to a a one year contract. Komisarek is a bruiser, and from what I've been told an excellent dancer. This kid has the potential to develop into one of the league's best defensemen. And dancers.
The New Jersey Devils re-signed defenseman Colin White to a 6 year $18 million deal. What's up with Lou Lamoriello? He's been handing out Mike Milbury sized contracts lately. Elias for 7 years (if I remember correctly) and now White for 6? I wonder how he is going to fit Gionta and Gomez under the cap. Can you spell TRADE?
Chris Simon to the Isles
The New York Islanders just signed left wing Chris Simon to a one year deal. The move obviously makes the Islanders a tougher team. Along with Brendan Witt, it seems as though Neil Smith is sculpting this squad to be a more physical bunch.
Blackhawks sign Havlat
My thanks to Moustache for sending this my way. The Blackhawks after trading for Martin Havlat have signed him to a 3 year $18 million deal. This is baffling. The guy is a decent player, but he doesn't deserve this kind of money. He did have a great playoffs, but it still doesn't put him on the same level with the Alex Tanguays and Joe Sakics of the league. The guy played 18 games last season!?
Hasek and Belfour
TSN.ca is reporting that Ken Holland is mulling over his goaltending options which now include Dominik Hasek. Which one of these guys will the Red Wings sign? The guy with the gimpy back, or the guy with gimpy groin? The Red Wings would be better off trading for David Aebischer at this point, rather than raiding the old age home.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Ottawa Senators have traded forwards Martin Havlat and Bryan Smolinski to the Chicago Blackhawks, in an unusual three team trade. The Blackhawks have sent Mark Bell to the Sharks for Tom Priessing and Josh Hennessey, who they then flipped to Ottawa along with Michal Barinka and a 2008 2nd round pick.
Nice pick up for the Hawks. If they can sign Havlat to a long term deal, then it's a great pick up. For the Senators, it appears that Muckler was tired of Havlat's on ice antics, and his refusal to sign a deal longer than one year. Havlat has been adamant about testing the free agent waters next summer when he becomes a UFA. Smolinski is a salary dump, plain and simple. The guy is a good player but he is making way too much money.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Well it's official folks. Brendan Shanahan is the newest New York Ranger. According to the NY Post, Shanahan has signed a one year deal worth $4 million.
Aside from the offensive skill this guy brings the table, Shanahan's greatest contribution to the Rangers will undoubtedly be the depth he will provide for them in the playoff beard department. Welcome to New York Shanny!
The Rangers continued to improve their team by letting Tom Poti hit the free agent market and sign a 1 year deal with the Islanders. Enjoy him Isles fans!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
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