The Flaming Bertuzzi. A cocktail made from exotic top shelf liquors, or a finishing move employed by professional cage fighters? You decide.

Yesterday was the day of the veterans... or a day for the veterans. A week after the initial free agent signing explosion, the older players who flew under the radar have begun to get scooped up. Todd Bertuzzi, was signed by the Cagary Flames to a one year deal worth $1.95 million, the Tampa Bay Lightning signed forward Mark Recchi to a one year deal worth $1.25 million, and the Minnesota Wild acquired forward Owen Nolan for two years at $2.75 million per season. Center Brendan Morrison is close to finalizing a deal that will bring him to the Anaheim Ducks.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman put an end to the feud (much to our dismay) between Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke, and Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe yesterday, a few days after Lowe finally shot back after a years worth of Burke's verbal barbs. Got to give Lowe a ton of credit, as he really ripped Burke, and gave me some new perspective on the guy. Maybe the Leafs should think twice before annointing him the savior of their franchise, he may leave it in worse shape than it already is. Isn't it funny how Bettman had to step in, after Lowe shot back? Little favoritism for Burke there? Me thinks there is!

The NHL is close to finalizing the third Winter Classic, which would reportedly be held at Wrigley Field in Chicago. The outdoor match would be between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings on New Years Day. The last two have been great, and I really hope that this becomes an annual event.

Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh