Barely six months ago, the free agency period began and the unrestricted, restricted, and soon-to-be unrestricted were courted by open checkbooks and vast sums of monies that most of us will never see in our lifetimes. This is when athletes become business men, or more accurately financial analysts and begin to dissect themselves like a stock investment. They compare their current value to their future value, and make their decisions based on that and the supply and demand of teams that are pursuing their services. Usually the risk is on the teams who sign them as they are betting that their new free agent acquisition will provide a level of play that equals or surpasses the contract they agreed too.
Last summer two players chose to assume more of that risk... and it may have been a decision they will regret in the future... financially.
Since July 1st, the economy has been ridden into the boards and stomped on like a Pronger 8 game special. Both the United States and Canada are facing some tough times and because of the that, the NHL may need to tighten it's belt and teams will most certainly be less generous with their wallets.
Marian Hossa, last summers prize unrestricted free-agent, who split time between the Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins the season prior, was due a big pay day. The forward who helped the Penguins to the Stanley Cup Finals was offered 'kill people and get away with it' type money (reportedly the Edmonton Oilers offered him a nine year deal worth $81 million), but rather than chase the dollar, Hossa chose to chase his dream of winning a Stanley Cup. Hossa went on to sign a one-year deal for $7 million with the Detroit Red Wings, the very same team that dispatched him and the Penguins in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Hossa gambled a long-term deal and huge dollars for the chance to play for and win the Stanley Cup in Detroit. The new Red Wing leads his club with 29 points, 15 goals and a +10 rating... and has them on top in the Central and just four points behind the San Jose Sharks... who perhaps should have been the club he signed with instead?
In fairness to Hossa, I do think that regardless of the economy he will have plenty of suitors, and will probably still find a club willing to shell out big time money for him. Will it be in the same range as last summers contracts? We will see.
Marion Gaborik. The Minnesota Wild's premier forward... or is he? Desperate to sign him prior to the start of the season, the Wild pulled out all of the stops, but rumors that Gaborik was seeking $10 million per year forever were abound. The Wild were rumored to be looking to sign him long-term (probably 6-7 years) in the $8 - $9 miilion range.... not too bad right? Not good enough for Gaborik. Talks broke down, and the Wild switched gears from signing him to trading him. The Wild's asking price was too high, and most teams were cautious after watching the Pens trade the farm to get Hossa, and watch him float away after July 1st. Why not wait to sign him next summer as well? Since that contract negotiations broke down, Gaborik has put together a season of Havlatian proportions. Injured early in the season, Gaborik has played just two games and collected 1 goal. He in a sense has not only screwed his team out of any trade scenario, but also screwed himself. See, Gaborik's skills are definitely worth millions of dollars... his groin however isn't worth $5. Aside from last year, when he played 77 games (almost a full season) and collected 83 points (42 goals, 41 assists) Gaborik's career has been consistently interrupted by injury... most notably his groin... with a solid honorable mention to the hip.
Gaborik will most certainly be dealt sometime this year, presumably by the February deadline, but the Wild will not get the lucrative return for him they feel they deserve. Likewise, Marian Gaborik may find that clubs will not be eager to break the bank on a player who makes his living on the Injured Reserved list.
Anaheim Ducks forward, enforcer and owner of the finest facial hair in the NHL scored in his club's 3-2 shootout win over the Toronto Maple Leafs last night.
To say the Ducks are having a rough start is the understatement of the year. The Ducks were unable to register a shot in the third period of the game last night but somehow managed to squeak out a victory over a Toronto Maple Leafs roster that is peppered with 3rd line players at best. George Parros for the record, is now second on the team in goal scoring after potting his second of the year last night.
Anaheim's young gun stars of Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry have both been blanked on the score sheet this season, neither registering a goal. Teemu Selanne has just 1 goal in 7 games and is a -4 rating. Free agent pickup Brendan Morrison has two points and is a -3. What does all this mean? Last place in the Western Conference.
Quick Shave: The Marian Gaborik trade watch is officially on now that rumors broke yesterday that the Minnesota Wild have already offered him up as a potential trade. An 'unnamed' NHL exec reported that Wild GM Doug Risebrough had been actively shopping their star forward.
Is this really a surprise? This is the same scenario as last year, when the Atlanta Thrashers were unable to re-sign Marian Hossa. Thrashers deal Hossa to the Pens for a package of picks and players, Hossa is a Penguin for a few months, and then leaves Pittsburgh high and dry for Detroit.
Gaborik never had any intention of re-signing with the Wild. He plans to test the market. Any team considering trading for him, should be well aware of that as well, and look closely to what happened to Pittsburgh. You may get him for the rest of the year, but there will be no guarantees he will be wearing your club's jersey come July 1st... which really is when team's should bid on his services.
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.
It took a few years, but it's apparent that Colorado Avalance goaltender Jose Theodore has rediscovered his play that secured him the Hart Trophy several seasons ago.
Jose Theodore made 34 saves last night and lifted the Avs to a 2-1 win over the Minnesota Wild, and became the third club to advance to the second round of the playoffs. The Avalanched closed out the Wild in 6 games.
In the final three games of the series, Theodore held the Wild to two goals or less. The Avs ride a three game winning streak into round 2.
Montreal Canadiens vs. Boston Bruins
The Bruins forced a game 7 in spectacular fashion last night in their 5-4 win over the Habs last night. The final 10 minutes of the game saw both clubs exchange goals and leads several times... in what had to be one of the most exciting games of the playoffs thus far. The Bruins will travel to Montreal on Monday night and attempt to do something their franchise has accomplished before in their history. Win a playoff series after being down 3-1. The pressure has surely shifted to the Canadiens. Playoff Beard Watch: Zdeno Chara.... give that man another round in the playoffs and he should be ready to start selling car insurance.
Washington Capitals vs. Philadelphia Flyers
The Washington Capitals comeback attempt is well under way. The Capitals defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-2 yesterday and staved (oh yeah, it's staving time) off elimination. Caps keeper Cristobal Huet made 30 saves, and Washington got goals from Backstrom, Federov and Semin to force a game 6. Phildalphia leads the series 3-2.
Today's Action: Detroit Red Wings vs. Nashville Predators
Detroit at Nashville 3:00 PM
The Red Wings take their 3-2 series lead to Nashville this afternoon and will look to finish off the Predators. Stave time for the Preds as they will look to force a game 7.
San Jose Sharks vs. Calgary Flames
San Jose at Calgary 8:00 PM
The Sharks will attempt to close out their series as the face the Flames in Calgary. Calgary will attempt to to force another game 7.... we can only hope!
Dallas Stars vs. Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim at Dallas 9:00 PM
Do or die time for the Dallas Stars. Yes I know they have two more opportunities to win this series, but if they lose game 6, they WILL lose game 7. Exorcise the demons boys, otherwise, get your razors out.
Speaking of razors. Edge shaving gel has apparently jumped on board the playoff beard band wagon along with Gillette. Again I have to point out to both companies.... your products are for shaving. Shaving in the playoffs, means you lost. Your products represent failure!
Now, this is the time of year, when Just For Men, and other beard care products should start advertising their wares... No play for Mr. Gray. No playoffs for Mr. Freshly Shaved either.
The Washington Capitals experienced a lot of firsts last night. The franchise first playoff appearance in the post lock-out era and the first playoff game for many of it's participants.
The Capitals enjoyed an early lead, then entered the third period down 4-2 by two goal games from Philadelpia Flyers Daniel Briere, and Vaclav Prospal. For the most part, the Flyers were able to shut down Alexander Ovechkin, keeping him without a shot in the game till the third period. Big players do big things in big spots. With roughly 4 minute remaining in the game, Ovechkin potted the eventual game winner, giving the Capitals the 5-4 win, and the 1-0 series lead over the Philadelphia Flyers.
For the Flyers this loss may be devestating. They did everything right and still couldn't come away with a victory. Keeping Ovechkin from being productive, and also buidling a two goal lead going in to the third period should have been keys to a win. The Flyers should perhaps spend time trying to take Washington Capitals defenceman Mike Green off his game. Green scored twice last night, and was the leading scoring defenceman during the regular season with 18 goals.
New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
The Rangers will return home to Madison Square Garden on Sunday night, and take with them a 2-0 series lead over the New Jersey Devils. The Rangers defeated the Devils 2-1 last night, the second time in a row, and ninth time this season. Another defensive affair, yet with more scoring opportunities and much more spice. These two clubs don't like each other and it really began to show last night. The game really came down to goaltending once again, with Rangers keeper Henrik Lundqvist coming out on top once again. Lundqvist made 26 saves on the night. Brodeur was solved in the third period once again, mostly due to a bump from his own defenceman Colin White which allowed Rangers forward Jaromir Jagr to deposit the puck on the near side. 23 seconds later, Rangers forward Sean Avery sent a wrist shot through traffic which held up as the eventual game winner.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Ottawa Senators
Ottawa Senators goaltender Martin Gerber made 49 saves but even his performance wasn't enough for the Senators to capture a win. Perhaps because the Senators allowed a total of 54 shots to be fired out their goaltender? The Senators did battle back from a 3-0 defecit to tie the game at 3 goals a piece in the third, but Penguins forward Ryan Malone potted the game winner of the with less than 90 seconds to play in the game and sealed the game with an empty netter a minute later. Penguin Evgeni Malkin had three assists on the night and Peter Sykora scored twice. While the Senators were finally able to get a goal past Fleury (as well as two others), the Ottawa defence seems to be completely overwhelmed with the Penguins offensive corps. They stormed the Sens and had it not been for Gerber, the Pens could have finished the game in the first period where they outshot their opponents 20-8. Game 3 comes to Ottawa Monday night, and their are rumors that captain Daniel Alfredsson could make a return. How effective he would be, is hard to say, but I have to imagine an injured Alfredsson is better than no Alfredsson at all?
Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche
The Minnesota Wild evened their series 1-1 thanks to an overtime score by Wild defenceman Keith Carney to give his club the 3-2 win. Colorado Avalanche forward Peter Forsberg scored his 64th career playoff goal and gave the Avs the 1-0 lead in late in the first period. The Miinnesota Wild finally scored on Avs netminder Jose Theodore in the third. Wild forwards Pavol Demitra and Mikko Koivu scored. Koivu's goal came with less than 2 minutes to play in the game, and looked like it would hold up as the game winner till the Avs Miljan Hejduk scored to force overtime with 44 seconds left in the game. Defenceman Keith Carney prevented the Wild from heading to Denver for game 3 down 2-0 in the series.
Game of the Night:
Nashville at Detroit 2:00 PM
Boston at Montreal 7:00 PM
Dallas at Anaheim 10:00 PM
The Ducks, Bruins and Predators will all attempt to rebound today after some rather lopsided losses in game 1. Especially the Ducks. Enjoy the games!
The Calgary Flames stunned the San Jose Sharks last night taking game 1 and home ice advantage.
The Flames defeated the Sharks 3-2. Flames forward Stephane Yelle scored two goals, and goaltender Miika Kiprusoff made 37 saves against his former club to take the 1-0 series lead into tonight's Game 2 matchup. Defenceman Dion Phaneuf rounded out the scoring for the Flames.
Sharks forward Ryan Clowe who missed most of the regular season on the IR provided both goals for the Sharks. His line along with Patrick Marleau seemed to be the only one that consistently gave the Flames headaches during the game.
Quick Shave:
Home Ice Advantage didn't mean much last night to the Colorado Avalanche as they defeated the Minnesota Wild 3-2 last night in overtime. Joe Sakic scored roughly midway through the first period of extra time (his 8th career overtime playoff goal) to give the Avs the series lead 1-0. Game 2 is Friday night.
After last night's 4-0 drubbing of the Vancouver Canucks, the Minnesota Wild need only one more victory to clinch a playoff spot. The Wild now hold a three point advantage over the Calgary Flames and the Colorado Avalanche and are in prime position to take the Northwest Division title and the third seed in the Western Conference.
Last night was a rough outting for the Canucks. Goaltender Roberto Luongo returned from Florida after the birth of his child (congrats congrats) but unfortunately did not last long. Luongo was yanked for the second straight game and has now given up nine goals in the last two matches.
The Minnesota Wild's Aaron Voros and Mikko Koivu opened the scoring and they never looked back. Minnesota's new tough guy line of Todd Fedoruk, Chris SImon and Derek Boogaard are providing the WIld with a much needed physical presence, and last night contributed on the scoreboard as Fedoruk finished a Marian Gaborik feed.
Quick Shave: Colorado Avalanche forward and captain may have single handedly broken the hearts of the Edmonton Oilers and perhaps finished their chances of making the post-seaon. The Edmonton Oilers were less than 6 sedonds away from victory and moving into a three way tie for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference (Predators and Canucks currently sit 8th), but Sakic tied the game late to force overtime. Sakic's heroics didn't end there, as he completed the comeback for the Avs with the game winner in the shootout. The San Jose Sharks clinched the Pacific Division title last night after their 3-1 victory over the rivals the Anaheim Ducks. Sharks backup goaltender made 23 saves to help secure the win. The New Jersey Devils have had some difficulty closing out games lately, and last night was the same old song. The Devils gave up the lead to the Philadelphia Flyers with less than a minute to play when forward Mike Knuble scored to force overtime. Fortunately for the Devils, goaltender Martin Biron was unable to silence their offence during the shootout, as all three forwards scored (Gionta, Elias, Parise) to close out the win 5-4. The Devils will not have the luxury of the shoot out in the post season, so they best get to finishing games and soon. The Carolina Hurricanes destroyed an Atlanta Thrashers club that appears ready to mail it in for the rest of the season, 7-1 last night. The Hurricanes scored a franchise record tying 5 powerplay goals last night and moved closer to clinching the Southeast Division title.
Has the NHL gone the way of the gladiator this season? Skate stomps, hits from behind, flying elbows, slashed throats, and faces driven into turnbuckles!
Last night we saw Minnesota Wild's Kurt Foster and San Jose Sharks Torrey Mitchell race to prevent an icing. While battling for the puck, Foster had a step on Mitchell and the two crashed into the boards behind the net. Foster suffered a fractured tibula on the play, and is recovering in a San Jose hospital following surgery to repair the broken bone.
Mitchell will not receive any further disciplinary action from the league as a result of the play.
I'm not sure he should either. After watching the play a few times, there was obviously contact between the pair, but I'm not sure Mitchell intentionally tried to injure Foster. In any case the debate is already being raised that the no-touch icing rule be brought into effect.
The NHL's star's shone brightly last night.... blindingly bright.
I don't know why, but the New York Rangers really tend to bring the best out in players. Unfortunately, that best usually belongs to a player on the opposing team. Last night the Rangers got a fistful of Marian Gaborik and the Minnesota Wild as they were outclassed 6-3. Gaborik put on a show for the hometown crowd scoring 5 goals and assisted on the Wild's 6th goal. The Wild scored on three power play opportunities and ruined the opening game of the Rangers pre-holiday road trip. This was the first time the Rangers visited Minnesota in 4 years. It is doubtful they are looking forward to returning there.
Sidney Crosby helped the Pittsburgh Penguins get back into the win column last night with a Gordie Howe hat trick. Crosby scored a goal, setup Evgeni Malkin for a pair, and yes, threw down for the first time in his NHL career, to lift his team to a 5-4 shootout win over the Boston Bruins. Crosby dropped the gloves with Boston Bruins defenceman Andrew Ference during the second. Pittsburgh Penguins forward Colby Armstrong also had three assists on the night.
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Vincent Lecavalier broke the hearts of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the second time this week. Just two nights removed from a late third period collapse to the Carolina Hurricanes, the Leafs allowed a late goal by Lecavalier in the final minute of the game to lose to the Lightning 2-1. Rookie netminder Karri Ramo made 31 saves to help the Lightning to victory. Could he be the answer in net they are looking for? Keep your fantasy radar on.
Atlanta Thrashers goaltender Kari Lehtonen is starting to rediscover his game again, after returning from his groin injury. Lehtonen made 28 saves and made Todd White's early third period (14 of saves came in the final frame) power play goal stand up to end the Ottawa Senators winning streak 3-2. Ottawa Senators goaltender Martin Gerber made 42 saves on the night, but his teammates were unable to solve Lehtonen.
Really Quick Shave:
If you didn't have enough reasons to subscribe to NHL Center Ice, here's one more.... and its a good one. The first channel of NHL Center Ice (mine is 415) is now called League Wide. League Wide essentially gives you 4 games simultaneously on one screen, while also providing the scores to the rest of the games down the left side. Now you won't have to worry about turning off that blow out game that becomes a miracle comeback in the third! That blister on my thumb from jockeying the remote to switch from game to game is actually starting to go away now as well.
Is there anything better than turning on a tie game at the beginning of the third period? Most definitely not (especially if your other option is a 6-0 Blackhawks blowout of the Coyotes in the second period).
The St. Louis Blues, who like many also-rans last season are in the midst of a rebirth right now, and are a fun team to watch, went into the third tied 2-2 with the Minnesota Wild, a team that is also alot of fun to watch even though they are criticized for being a trapping team. Regardless of their styles of play, this game was back and forth for the next twenty, and was loaded with quality scoring chances, odd man rushes, short handed opportunities and spilled beer. Blues keeper Manny Legace, and Wild goaltender Niklas Backstrom both put on a clinic ( i hate that phrase even though it accurately describes their play) and kept the game scoreless to force overtime.
A costly turnover by the Blues (an errant drop pass that was missed) was scooped up by Minnesota Wild forward Marion Gaborik and a two on one quickly developed. Gaborik looked pass the whole way and roofed the puck past Legaces right shoulder to give the Wild the 3-2 overtime victory. Just outstanding.
Quick Shave:
While the GM's meet in California desperate to find a new way to produce more offence in their game, New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur continues to deny it. Brodeur made 27 saves last night to record his 94th career shutout win 4-0 over the Montreal Canadiens. The win broke Terry Sawchuck's record for most combined shutouts in the regular season and playoffs. Brodeur continues to climb towards his spot as the best goaltender in the NHL ever. Devils forward Zach Parise recorded his first ever NHL hat trick last night and set Brian Gionta up for another. Sidney Crosby had a 2 goal night last night and more than helped the well rested Pittsburgh Penguins to a 4-1 over the Dallas Stars.... who have cooled off after ripping off 6 straight wins following their front office house cleaning. The Chicago Blackhawks. It's time to take notice of this club. Currently they sit in 4th place overall in the West and continue to ride their young guns, Jonathan Toews (goal and 2 assists last night) and Patrick Kane (two assists) to victory after victory. The Blackhawks chased the Phoenix Coyotes new goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov midway through the first period after torching him for 5 goals. Interesting point brought up by my buddy Jeff, is that the Blackhawks have owned the Detroit Red Wings this year.... lest you think they can only defeat the bottom feeders. I think it's safe to say this team is for real.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Ottawa 2:00 PM
Pittsburgh at Toronto 7:00 PM
Chicago at St. Louis 8:30 PM
Two of the top teams in the East go to battle. This game scares the crap out of me as a Ranger fan. The Senators are due, and having lost 5 straight will be playing with a huge chip today.... I doubt they will drop 6 in a row, so the Rangers will definitely have their work cut out for them. The late game of choice is Crosby visiting the hockey capital, and whenever that happens, he puts on a show. Take a look at the Blackhawks and Blues.... two young teams that you will be hearing alot about this year.
The Minnesota Wild are tearing it up early again. Remember last year when they exploded out of the gate while the rest of the league slept-walked through the first month of the season? Well they are doing it again.
While last years hot start was cooled by injuries to Gaborik and Demitra, the Wild are definitely looking forward this year. They have yet to lose a game in regulation, and have now won seven of their first 8 games this season.
Last night, just minutes before going to overtime with the Colorado Avalanche, Mikko Koivu broke free to score the game winner, and give the Wild the 3-2 victory. Goaltender Niklas Backstrom was solid once again making 29 saves on the evening. Backstrom continues to reward the Minnesota Wild for making him their number one netminder in favor of Manny Fernandez who was traded to the goaltending camp in Boston. The Wild currently sit atop the Western Conference and now boast the best record in the NHL.
Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks stopped their losing ways last night due in large part to backup goaltender Curtis Sanford who made 35 saves to backstop his club to a 4-1 win over the surging Columbus Blue Jackets. Ryan Kesler potted two goals on the evening, and Markus Naslund and Kevin Bieksa rounded out the scoring to seal the win. Columbus Blue Jackets forward Rick Nash scored the lone goal for his team and now has a three game goal scoring streak. Game of the Night:
San Jose at Calgary 9:00 PM
This looks to be a wholesome matchup between a couple of the big boys out West. Both teams are looking to establish themselves as powerhouses, and will have ample opportunity to do so this evening. Enjoy the games!
The Minnesota Wild shut the doors on the Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks last night 2-0. Backup goaltender Josh Harding made 37 saves to record the shutout win, the third of his career.
Jean-Sebastien Giguere returned to the lineup from injury last night for the Ducks, but unfortunately he may have traded places with winger Todd Bertuzzi. Bertuzzi was checked after a crossing feed during the first period, and never returned to the game. TSN.ca is reporting it could be a concussion, but the hit (although difficult to see) was shoulder on shoulder and I'm speculating it could be his back (which kept him out for most of last season) which took the brunt of that hit.
The Ducks who are already starved for offense since the departure of Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer, cannot afford the loss of another point getter (even though Bertuzzi hasn't gotten many points in the past two years).
Quick Shave:
The Detroit Red Wings downed the Los Angelse Kings last night 4-1 on a strong performance from forward Henrik Zetterberg. HZ had a goal and two helpers in the win. Kings goaltender Jonathan Bernier was in net again in favor of Jason LaBarberra. Neither goaltender has been stellar for Los Angeles this season which makes me wonder if they will make a move for a goalie soon, or perhaps look at Curtis Joseph, who I heard last night during one of the games is eager to continue playing and is still training in hopes of being signed. We'll see.
The new jersey award thus far has to go to the Washington Capitals. Of all the new looks in the NHL, I think they got it right. Clean, classy, and back to their old school look. Well done!
Game of the Night:
Toronto at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Detroit at Anaheim 10:00 PM
San Jose at Vancouver 10:00 PM
Three games tonight, and they all look pretty good. The Leafs and Sabres game should end up being defense free, so expect a 7-6 game. Out West later tonight are 4 teams that could end up being the final four in the Western Conference..... enjoy watching these giants tussle. Enjoy the games!
Calgary Flames captain Jarome Iginla joined the NHL Hat Trick Club for the first time this season and helped lead his team to a 4-2 win over the Minnesota Wild.
The Flames lit up Wild goaltender Niklas Backstrom, who's been rock solid for his team of late, scoring on both shots they took on him. Josh Harding replaced Backstrom and allowed two more.
The Calgary Flames have now won 5 in a row and opened a 7 point lead over the Colorado Avalanche for the 8th and final spot in the Western Conference. Barring total self destruction, the Flames have secured their post season berth. The Flames also moved within 4 points of the Western Conference's 98 point triumvirate. The Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks and Minnesota Wild, all sitting in 5th, 6th and 7th. The Minnesota Wild who had been on a ridiculous 9 game winning run, have now dropped two straight and fallen behind the now dominant Vancouver Canucks.
Quick Shave:
The Detroit Red Wings refuse to give up that President's Trophy. Todd Bertuzzi assisted on both Red Wing goals and helped them defeat the Nashville Predators 2-1. The win puts them in a three way tie for the top spot again with the same Predators and the Buffalo Sabres. The Atlanta Thrashers stole the extra point from the Toronto Maple Leafs on a late overtime goal by Slava Kozlov. The Thrashers took the game 3-2 and extended their lead over Southeast Division rival Tampa Bay. The Leafs find themselves 1 point outside of the playoffs with 85. The Vancouver Canucks. I can't believe how good this team has become. The Canucks defeated the Los Angeles Kings 4-2. Goaltender Roberto Luongo is now two wins shy of tying Bernie Parent's record of 47 in a season. The Kings debuted their rookie defenseman Jack Johnson last night. Johnson had one shot on net and finished a -1 rating for the night, he also was he recipient of a Jan Bulis check that upended the young defenceman. Ummm, the Pittsburgh Penguins are the Atlantic Division leaders. Yeah. After defeating the Boston Bruins 4-2 last night, the Penguins moved in to sole possession of the Atlantic and second overall in the Eastern Conference. I would love to say I predicted this, but wow! These kids are on fire. Sidney Crosby had three assists on the night and now has 116 points for the season.
Game of the Night:
Montreal at Ottawa 7:30 PM
NY Islanders at Buffalo 8:00 PM
A good ole fashion Canadian style matchup. I hope that Center Ice broadcasts the game in French too, by the second period I usually understand what they are saying, and by the third (after 14 or so Labatts) I'm speaking the language fluently. The Habs look to continue their 5 game winning streak!The Islanders have a tough match against the Sabres as Ted Nolan returns to his old digs again. The Islanders may have DiPietro in the lineup tonight. Apparently the boys from the New York Hockey Report (a pretty cool local broadcast that airs prior to the Face Off Hockey Show) said that TSN over exaggerated the status of DiPietro's injuries (regarding his post concussion syndrome) and he may be between the pipes this evening. Enjoy the games!
The reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner was on his way to making the Edmonton Oilers pay early this morning. Jonathan Cheechoo lit the lamp three times for his first hat trick of the young season. Down 4-2, the Oilers mounted an unlikely comeback in the third period. Powered by Ryan Smyth, and his hat trick, the Oilers scored 4 unanswered goals to beat the San Jose Sharks 6-4.
Ryan Smyth broke Wayne Gretzky's record (set in '88 if I heard correctly), for the fastest three goals by an Edmonton Oilers player. Smyth potted the first two on the power play 14 seconds apart, and nabbed the third less than a minute later.
What a hockey game! It really looked as though the Sharks had this one in the bag, and apparently they did too, and came out way too complacent in the third. The Oilers stormed Sharks goalie Evgeni Nabokov who faced multiple breakaways (one of which Ales Hemsky finished the scoring on) and odd man opportunites, and looked as though he was left to fend for himself. Edmonton looked like the same refuse to die team we all witnessed in last years playoffs. Dwayne Roloson looked like the playoff version of himself, weathering the Sharks attack for the final period with little difficulty. Two Hat Tricks in one game! That's nice.
Quick Shave
Not to be out done, Brian Gionta of the New Jersey Devils joined Mattheiu Schneider, Jonathan Cheechoo, and Ryan Smyth in this week's Hat Trick Club by helping his team climb back into the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs last night. Gionta, just re-signed by the Devils last week, potted three goals in the third to tie the game 6-6, and force overtime, and the eventual shootout where New Jersey won 7-6. The Calgary Flames still can't find the offence they long for, but their opponents aren't able to find any when facing Miikka Kiprusoff. Jarome Iginla scored the only goal of the game, and that was all the Flames needed as Kiprusoff shut the door on the Ottawa Senator, stopping all 33 shots he faced for the 1-0 win. The Pittsburgh Penguins are showing signs of the juggernaut they are destined to become. The Penguins had a back and forth matchup against the New York Rangers that saw Sidney Crosby have a 4 point evening including the game winning power play goal with seconds remaining to give his team the 6-5 win. Jordan Staal, the younger brother of Hurricanes forward Eric Staal potted his first ever NHL goal on a beautiful shorthanded breakway against Rangers keeper Henrik Lundqvist. The second overall pick in this years Entry Draft, had a terrific game and is giving the Penguins all the reason in the world to keep him on the team. The Chicago Blackhawks beat the Nashville Predators for the second time in two weeks, and kept them from finding their first win. Martin Havlat, whom the Blackhawks picked up in a trade from Ottawa, and signed for the long term has really answered the bell. Havlat had a goal last night against the Predators and in 3 games has 8 points (4 goals, 4 assists). The Minnesota Wild are still unbeaten after taking it to the Washington Capitals in a shootout victory 3-2. UFA acquisition defenceman Kim Johnsson potted both goals in regualtion on the powerplay.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at Detroit 7:00 PM
A Friday the 13th matchup! This one is for you Jeff! The unbeaten Buffalo Sabres storm in to Detroit tonight to face off agains the Red Wings. This is a great test for both teams. The Red Wings have the opportunity to answer the critics against one of the hottest teams in the league. Enjoy the games!
I know it's early, and I know it's only pre-season, but it's nice to see the Rangers getting off on the right foot after a lackluster finish to their promising season. The Rangers came out blazing and stunned the New Jersey Devil's Martin Brodeur for 3 goals in the first 8 minutes of the game. Blair Betts, recently acquired Adam Hall (traded in a three way deal with Nashville and Pittsburgh for Dominic Moore), and youngster Brandon Dubinsky (who's efforts to make the roster are looking better by the day) recorded the tallies for the New York Rangers. Goaltenders Al Montoya and Stephen Valiquette allowed only one goal on 25 shots.
Koivu's sights are set
Even thought the Habs fell to the Bruins tonight 5-2, the team was apparently thrilled with Saku Koivu who's eye ailment did little to prevent him from playing and assisting on a goal by Michael Ryder. It would seem that Koivu has once again persevered.
Minnesota's offseason already paying dividends
Minnesota Wild forward Marion Gaborik scored two goals including the game winner to help the Wild to a 3-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. Draft day trade acquisition, Pavol Demitra scored the other helper.
Penguins Malkin to make debut
With or without the blessing of the Russian hockey federation, Pittsburgh Penguins much travelled forward Evgeni Malkin will make his debut tonight against the Philadelphia Flyers. A lot of eyes will be on this game, and I'm certain it won't be just to check out Malkin's play.
I'm still hearing alot of power play opportunities are being given away. It looks like the clubs with discipline and / or polished special teams are going to be flying out the gates this season. One night after winning with superb power play units, Dallas did the exact opposite, and let the Colorado Avalanche showcase their special teams, scoring three. Every coach in the NHL must be losing his mind right now.
Tonight's Games:
Philadelphia at Pittsburgh 6:30 PM
Florida at Atlanta 7:00 PM
New Jersey at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Tampa Bay at Washington 7:00 PM
Boston at Montreal 7:30 PM
Toronto at Ottawa 7:30 PM
San Jose at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Dallas at Phoenix 10:00 PM
Marion Gaborik has re-signed with the Wild rather than electing to goto salary arbitration (which close to 70 players decided to do) for 3 years at $19 million. Gaborik must have been very pleased by the Draft Day dealings which saw the Wild make a trade with the L.A. Kings to bring Pavol Demitra to their club. Demitra is not only a terrific forward, and veteran presence, but also Slovakian and one of Gaborik's best friends.
The Wild did not stop there. They also added through free-agency, forward Mark Parrish, and defencemen Keith Carney and Kim Johnsson. The Wild have added some stellar players, and suddenly look like a playoff calibre team. Gaborik obviously feels the same way. Nice work by GM Doug Risebrough.
Kings trade for Cloutier
It was only a matter of time before this happened. After signing Roberto Luongo to a long-term contract, Vancouver goalie became immediately expendable. Cloutier was making $2.55 million, and for a backup keeper that is a bit too much. Vancouver traded Dan Cloutier to the Kings for a couple of draft picks, one a 2nd rounder next year. Once again, another salary cap casuality, and once again, the Kings are the beneficiaries. Remember Roenick? Although he did play like a bag of ass last year, hopefully, Cloutier will be a better pickup.
I wonder if David Aebischer will be dealt by the Habs? Dominik Hasek is also available from the Senators, and according to TSN.ca, the Red Wings are putting Ed Belfour through some rigourous physicals, to see if he can play. Eddie the Eagle with Wings? Could be.
Flames addressing offence
The Flames have just signed Alex Tanguay to a 3 year deal worth $15.75 million, and have made a solid move towards improving their offence, and re-igniting (no pun intended) their star forward Jarome Iginla. The Flames also picked forward Jeff Friesen to a one year deal worth $1.6 million. He will hopefully add some more offence, because they can't count on him for playoff beard depth.
Devils in cap trouble again
Lou Lamoriello has committed $41 million to the Devils next season, just shy of the $44 million cap. The biggest problem is that Scott Gomez has elected to goto salary arbitration, and the Devils have yet to re-sign star forward Brian Gionta. Lou Lamoriello will certainly be forced to make some drastic moves over the next month. Keep an eye on this.
I apologize for the downtime folks, I had some technical difficulties sponsored by the fine folks over at Verizon.
A lot happened on Saturday....here's a quick rundown:
Atlanta sent Patrik Stefan (a #1 pick years ago, and their first draft pick ever if I'm not mistaken) and Jaroslav Modry to Dallas for Niko Kapanen and a 7th round pick.
Kings traded Pavol Demitra to the Minnesota Wild for Patrick O'Sullivan and their 1st round pick. The Kings used the pick to draft Trevor Lewis...who apparently is a bad ass from the USHL. Demitra should help Gaborik offensively, but this was definitely the WTF trade of the day. When it was announced the entire arena gasped. I did as well.
The Avalanche traded Alex Tanguay to Calgary for defenceman Jordan Leopold, a 2nd round pick, and an conditional pick in 2007 or 2008. Iginla finally gets his wingman. I expect these two to put up some impressive numbers next year. Now they just need a center to get them the puck......
Blackhawks buy out Matt Barnaby and Curtis Brown. No surprise there. They should buy out the management there, which next to Boston and the previously the Islanders (before the purge) is the worst in the league....and perhaps in sports.
Canadiens resign Cristobal Huet to a 2 year deal, which I guess means David Aebischer is now on the available goalie list. Perhaps they should wait and see, in case Huet goes into a Raycroft like slump in his sophomore year. What a segue! Raycroft got traded Saturday, but I can't remember to whom...nor do I really care.
Same goes for Dan Cloutier who I think is making way too much money to be a backup, since he will most certainly be waxing the bench while watching Luongo start.
Phoenix just traded defencemen Paul Mara and a pick to Boston for Nick Boyton and a pick.
Pronger is apparently on his way out of Edmonton. Where and when is the question. What do the Oilers need, and who needs a solid blueliner that can 75 minutes a game? Not too many teams right!
Calgary Flames acquire Jamie Lundmark from the Phoenix Coyotes for a draft pick.
Vancouver Canucks acquire Eric Weinrich from the Blues for a prospect and a pick.
Phoenix Coyotes acquire Oleg Kvasha from the Islanders for a third round pick.
Dallas Stars acquire defenceman Willie Mitchell and a 2007 2nd round pick from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for defenceman Martin Skoula and Shawne Belle.
Philadelphia Flyers acquire forward Nikos Dimitrakos from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a third round draft pick.
Colorado Avalanche acquire forward Jim Dowd from the Blackhawks in exchange for a fourth round pick.
Ottawa Senators acquire forward Tyler Arnason from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for forward Brandon Bochenski and a pick.
Edmonton Oilers acquire forward Sergei Samsonov from the Boston Bruins in exchange for forward Marty Reasoner, a second round pick and a minor league player.
Atlanta Thrashers acquire defenceman Steve McCarthy from the Canucks in exchange for a condition pick in 2007.
Detroit Red Wings acquire defenceman Cory Cross from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a fourth rounder.
Nashville Predators acquire Brendan Witt from the Caps in exchange for a first round pick and forward Kris Beech.
New York Rangers acquire defenceman Sandis Ozolinsh from the Ducks in exchange for a third round pick.
Phoenix Coyotes acquire defencemen Jamie Rivers from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for a seventh round pick in 2007.
Damn! A whole lotta action! I'll give you guys some breakdowns, plus winners and losers tomorrow!
The Oilers have been looking for a number 1 goalie all season, and they found one, ironically in a guy that wanted to be a number 1. Dwayne Roloson has been a tandem goalie with the Minnesota Wild's Manny Fernandez for several years now. However, since Fernandez recently signed a long term deal, it has been rumored that Roloson would become trade bait.
Minnesota received a first round draft pick and a conditional pick from the Oilers in Exchange for Roloson. For more on this trade visit TSN.ca.
In other moves, the Boston Bruins picked up Mariusz Czerkawski off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs. More on this also at TSN.ca.
Marian Gaborik scored 2 goals in the third period to help Slovakia beat Russia 5-3 this afternoon. Pavol Demitra, Peter Bondra, and Lubomir Visnovsky also scored.
Latvia vs. United States IN PROGRESS
Currently tied at 3 a piece in the third.
Marian Hossa, last summers prize unrestricted free-agent, who split time between the Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins the season prior, was due a big pay day. The forward who helped the Penguins to the Stanley Cup Finals was offered 'kill people and get away with it' type money (reportedly the Edmonton Oilers offered him a nine year deal worth $81 million), but rather than chase the dollar, Hossa chose to chase his dream of winning a Stanley Cup. Hossa went on to sign a one-year deal for $7 million with the Detroit Red Wings, the very same team that dispatched him and the Penguins in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Marion Gaborik. The Minnesota Wild's premier forward... or is he? Desperate to sign him prior to the start of the season, the Wild pulled out all of the stops, but rumors that Gaborik was seeking $10 million per year forever were abound. The Wild were rumored to be looking to sign him long-term (probably 6-7 years) in the $8 - $9 miilion range.... not too bad right? Not good enough for Gaborik. Talks broke down, and the Wild switched gears from signing him to trading him. The Wild's asking price was too high, and most teams were cautious after watching the Pens trade the farm to get Hossa, and watch him float away after July 1st. Why not wait to sign him next summer as well? Since that contract negotiations broke down, Gaborik has put together a season of Havlatian proportions. Injured early in the season, Gaborik has played just two games and collected 1 goal. He in a sense has not only screwed his team out of any trade scenario, but also screwed himself. See, Gaborik's skills are definitely worth millions of dollars... his groin however isn't worth $5. Aside from last year, when he played 77 games (almost a full season) and collected 83 points (42 goals, 41 assists) Gaborik's career has been consistently interrupted by injury... most notably his groin... with a solid honorable mention to the hip.
Anaheim Ducks forward, enforcer and owner of the finest facial hair in the NHL scored in his club's 3-2 shootout win over the Toronto Maple Leafs last night.
The Flaming Bertuzzi. A cocktail made from exotic top shelf liquors, or a finishing move employed by professional cage fighters? You decide.
It took a few years, but it's apparent that Colorado Avalance goaltender Jose Theodore has rediscovered his play that secured him the Hart Trophy several seasons ago.
The Washington Capitals experienced a lot of firsts last night. The franchise first playoff appearance in the post lock-out era and the first playoff game for many of it's participants. 
New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Ottawa Senators
Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche
The Calgary Flames stunned the San Jose Sharks last night taking game 1 and home ice advantage.
Quick Shave:
Sidney Crosby helped the Pittsburgh Penguins get back into the win column last night with a Gordie Howe hat trick. Crosby scored a goal, setup Evgeni Malkin for a pair, and yes, threw down for the first time in his NHL career, to lift his team to a 5-4 shootout win over the Boston Bruins. Crosby dropped the gloves with Boston Bruins defenceman Andrew Ference during the second. Pittsburgh Penguins forward Colby Armstrong also had three assists on the night.
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Vincent Lecavalier broke the hearts of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the second time this week. Just two nights removed from a late third period collapse to the Carolina Hurricanes, the Leafs allowed a late goal by Lecavalier in the final minute of the game to lose to the Lightning 2-1. Rookie netminder Karri Ramo made 31 saves to help the Lightning to victory. Could he be the answer in net they are looking for? Keep your fantasy radar on.
Atlanta Thrashers goaltender Kari Lehtonen is starting to rediscover his game again, after returning from his groin injury. Lehtonen made 28 saves and made Todd White's early third period (14 of saves came in the final frame) power play goal stand up to end the Ottawa Senators winning streak 3-2. Ottawa Senators goaltender Martin Gerber made 42 saves on the night, but his teammates were unable to solve Lehtonen.
Quick Shave:
Calgary Flames captain Jarome Iginla joined the NHL Hat Trick Club for the first time this season and helped lead his team to a 4-2 win over the Minnesota Wild. 
Game of the Night:
The reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner was on his way to making the Edmonton Oilers pay early this morning. Jonathan Cheechoo lit the lamp three times for his first hat trick of the young season. Down 4-2, the Oilers mounted an unlikely comeback in the third period. Powered by Ryan Smyth, and his hat trick, the Oilers scored 4 unanswered goals to beat the San Jose Sharks 6-4.
What a hockey game! It really looked as though the Sharks had this one in the bag, and apparently they did too, and came out way too complacent in the third. The Oilers stormed Sharks goalie Evgeni Nabokov who faced multiple breakaways (one of which Ales Hemsky finished the scoring on) and odd man opportunites, and looked as though he was left to fend for himself. Edmonton looked like the same refuse to die team we all witnessed in last years playoffs. Dwayne Roloson looked like the playoff version of himself, weathering the Sharks attack for the final period with little difficulty. Two Hat Tricks in one game! That's nice.
Flames addressing offence
