Everything Hockey

New Site!

2008-08-05T00:33:00.003-04:00

Well....we'll be moving soon enough! We will no longer be posting at this location, you can find the new site at www.everything-hockey.com Hurry over and check it out if you want to see the continuation of my run through of every single NHL team's goaltending situation. Other bloggers will also be writing over there shortly! Come on over! www.everything-hockey.com

Giggy Still "With It" In Anaheim

2008-07-02T14:55:00.006-04:00

Anaheim had yet another somewhat successful season in 2007-2008, winning 47 games, but the loss in the first round to the Dallas Stars must disappoint them. They did not get affected by any "Stanley Cup hangover" which was good, but they also did not get the result they were looking for. Brain Burke has one thing he can relax about this off-season, and that's his goaltending situation. J-S Giguere had fantastic year posting a 2.12 goals against average, and a .922 save percentage. Those are his best statistics in the post-lockout era. Giguere is right in the middle of his prime at 31 years-of-age, and still has some great seasons ahead of him. Some goalies hit their prime later than skaters, and since it took Giguere years to work his way through the minors, his best may be yet to come. Anaheim can rely on Giguere's steadiness until his contract expires in 2011. He is a top-tier goaltender, and will likely continue his successes into next season. Ilya Bryzgalov was sent to the waiver wire in order to make room for Jonas Hiller, who fits the backup role nicely. The facts that Bryzgalov was too good to be used as a backup to Giguere, and that they had a capable backup in Hiller waiting in the wings led to Bryzgalov's demise in Anaheim. Hiller is good at starting once or twice a month. You know what you are getting with him, and can expect that each time out. That's a tough skill to find, but Anaheim has found one in the young Swiss netminder.

American goalie Mike McKenna saw most of the action in Portland last season, and will likely do the same this year in Iowa, since the Ducks changed their affiliation. (Side note: who names a team the "Chops"?) The younger Jean-Phillippe Levasseur may give McKenna a run for his money, but they will likely end up splitting time in a 70/30 fashion. Although inconsistent so far at the professional level, Levasseur has talent unmatched by anyone else in the Ducks' minor league system. With Giguere locked up on the big team, look for Anaheim to take their time with Levasseur, if not eventually trade him.

Further down the depth chart we see Bobby Goepfert who spent his first year out of college with the Augusta Linx of the ECHL last season. He did not see as much action as he probably would have liked, mainly because he was splitting time with J-P Levasseur, but impressed when called upon. Goepfert plays an all-out style of goaltending, and has great reflexes and reactions. He should be given the reigns in Augusta, and is hopeful of a call up to Iowa if he plays well enough.

On the European side of things, Anaheim has two noteworthy goalies. Mattias Modig and Sebastian Stefaniszin. Mattias Modig, drafted in the 4th round in 2007, had a slow year appearing in 47 games for Lulea HF of the Swedish Elite League. He posted an undeniably bad 3.53 G.A.A, and hopes to bounce back next year, or else he may see his shot at coming over to North America fade. Sebastian Stefaniszin had an absolutely terrible season, playing in only 19 games all year, and in 9 games with Iserlohn of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga of Germany he posted a 4.50 G.A.A, with a 0.881 save percentage. He'll need to really bounce back in order to bring his status in the organization up.

Overall, Anaheim is set in net. They have nothing to worry about unless Giguere has some kind of disastrous injury (knock on wood) that knocks him out of the equation. Keep up the good work, Giggy!

End of a Nightmare for Denis

2008-06-24T16:28:00.004-04:00

After the trade from Columbus to Tampa Bay, it was all downhill for Marc Denis' career. It appears that he has hit rock bottom, after being placed on waivers by the Lightning today, and is expected to be bought out if not claimed by another team.

After struggling in his first season with the Lightning in 2006-2007, posting a record of 17-18-2, he followed it up with a dismal 2007-2008 campaign. He owned a record of 1-5 in 10 games, with a 4.05 goals-against-average, and a 0.859 save percentage before being sent down to the Lightning's AHL affiliate in Norfolk. Even there he only won 11 times in 32 games.

For a goalie who is supposed to be hitting his prime at age 31, Denis is far from it. He showed flashes of greatness for Columbus, when he was playing behind a brutal squad for years, so everyone knows that he has the talent, it's just a matter of putting it together in the right situation. He may be in the AHL for the rest of his career, or in Europe, but I still think an NHL team should take a flyer on him, and send him to their AHL squad.

If Denis does get another shot, he better not blow it, because it could be his last.

UPDATE: Denis has signed a contract with the Montreal Canadiens. He'll likely start the year in Hamilton. He's replacing Yann Danis who signed with the Islanders (Denis to replace Danis???) Welcome to Hammertown, Marc!

Early Information on NHL 09 Released

2008-06-18T23:49:00.007-04:00

The first bit of news on the all-new EA Sports video game NHL 09 was released in the form of the cover athlete earlier this month. Dion Phaneuf's mug will grace the cover, and is the focus of the first trailer video released, which you can watch here.

Since then, some other information on the actual game has been slowly released. For starters, a preliminary release date has been set for September 9th, so mark that on your calendars. 60 frames/per second gameplay has been confirmed for the Playstation 3, unlike last year.

The first major feature added is "legendary moves." The most famous moves in NHL history (the Datsyuk fake, the Crosby leg kick, Jussi Jokinen's patented penalty shot move) are all in there at your disposal. Not a lot of other information has been given about the moves, like how to use them, it has only been confirmed that they're in there.

Skates and sticks are fully interactive. Players may get spun around because they get caught on the stick of a defender, or the puck may be smacked away unexpectedly. There is no more "magnet" feeling to puck handling. The puck is no longer glued to the stick on a pass, the stick will actually have to move to the puck. I am excited about this feature, as it makes the game much more realistic. I can't wait to see this baby in action.

In NHL 08 goalies had probably 10 set moves or so, making it very boring and expected. In NHL 09 they have added an all new "desperation save" where a goalie may come flying across the net, right when you think he's down and out. This should lead to some jaw-dropping moments.

Freezing issues, fixed. 1000 hip checks a game, gone. New ways to injure players have been added. Hitting is more difficult. Again, there is no more "magnet" feeling. You may go in for the hit, and completely miss, slamming into the boards.

New stick-lifting feature, which makes it easier to steal the puck away. Watch out though, if you miss you may high stick the player. If it's serious enough then it can be a 4 minute double minor.

Create a play can now start from your own end. Separate line changes for offense and defense, and retro jerseys have been added. New European leagues have also been added. Here are the leagues available in NHL 09:

National Hockey League
American Hockey League
International Teams.
Russian Elite
German Elite
Swedish Tournament
Finnish Tournament
Czech Elite

Another new feature that has been added, Superstar Mode. I know a lot of people will be happy about this. I know I will be plugging many hours into it. An all-new create-a-player will compliment this new mode. You will most likely start off in the AHL, and work your way up. During time on the bench, it will show you what you did right, and what you did wrong. Your shifts will dictate how your attributes fluctuate.

Custom soundtracks will be available, so you'll be able to choose what song to play in certain situations (Goal, penalty, over the glass, etc.) That is a new and exciting feature that I can't wait to fiddle around with.

When a player scores it will tell you how many goals they have on the season, they have brought that back for NHL 09.

There is also a "big surprise" that they have not revealed yet.

They will be in tough competition since 2K sports just announced that they will be making NHL 2K9 for the Wii, while NHL 09 will not be out for the Wii. That's all that I've read about the game, I just can't wait until the release!

My Mock Draft For 2008!

2008-06-14T08:27:00.002-04:00

Expect more from us in the upcoming weeks with Draft Previews for different teams!But for now here is my mock draft I constructed. It is not based on TEAM NEEDS because of the trades the go on during the draft I figured that it would not be the same teams, in the same positions during the draft.

Steven Stamkos,Sarnia Sting, Center (6’1, 180 pounds), Canadian
Drew Doughty, Guelph Storm, Defensemen (6’0, 213 pounds), Canadian
Zach Bogosian, Peterborough Petes, Defensemen (6’2, 200 pounds), American
Alex Pietrangelo, Niagara Ice Dogs, Defensemen (6’4, 210 pounds), Canadian
Nikita Filatov , CSKA Moscow, Left Wing (6’0, 172 pounds), Russian
Luke Schenn , Kelowna Rockets, Defensemen (6’3, 209 pounds), Canadian
Cody Hodgson, Brampton Battalions, Center (6’0, 185 pounds), Canadian
Kyle Beach, Everett Silvertips, Center (6’3 , 203 pounds), Canadian
Colin Wilson, Boston University, Center (6’1, 215 pounds), American
Mikkel Boedker, Kitchener Rangers, Left Wing (5’11, 201 pounds), Denmark
Colten Teubert, Regina Pats, Defensemen (6’4, 181 pounds), Canadian
Tyler Myers, Kelowna Rockets, Defensemen (6’6, 194 pounds), Canadian
Michael Del Zotto, Oshawa Generals, Defensemen (6’0 ,190 pounds), Canadian
Zach Boychuk, Lethbridge Hurricane, Center (5’9, 176 pounds), Canadian
Jordan Eberle, Regina Pats, Center (5’11, 170 pounds), Canadian
Luca Sbisa, Lethbridge Hurricanes, Defensemen (6’1, 176 pounds), Switzerland
Mattias Tedenby, HV 71, Left Wing (5’10, 176 pounds), Swedish
Tyler Cuma, Ottawa 67’s, Defensemen (6’2, 182 pounds), Canadian
Colby Robak, Brandon Wheat Kings, Defensemen (6’3, 202 pounds), Canadian
Thomas McCollum, Guelph Storm, Goaltender (6’2, 208 pounds), Canadian
John Carlson, Indiana Ice(USHL), Defensemen (6’2, 215 pounds), American
Greg Nemisz, Windsor Spitfires, Right Wing (6’4, 202 pounds), Canadian
Kirill Petrov, Ak Bars Kazan, Right Wing (6’3, 198 pounds), Russian
Jamie Arniel, Sarnia Sting, Center (6’0, 195 pounds), Canadian
Yann Sauvé, Saint-John Sea Dogs, Defensemen (6’3, 220 pounds), Canadian
Chet Pickard, Tri-City Americans, Goaltender (6’3, 200 pounds), Canadian
Zac Dalpe, Penticton Valley First Vees, Center (6’1, 175 pounds),Canadian
Evgeny Grachev, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, Center (6’4, 202 pounds),Russian
Anton Gustafsson, Västra Frölunda HC, Center (6’1, 189 pounds), Swedish
Joe Colborne, Camrose Kodiaks(AJHL), Center (6’4,195 pounds), Canadian

The Cup Final: Pens vs Red Wings

2008-05-24T15:43:00.004-04:00

Hello Hockey Fans from around the globe this is the everything hockey Stanley Cup Final PREDICTIONS blog here are your 2008 predictions for the cup final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings:

OVIE'S BEST FRIEND:Red Wings in 5
Greg Balloch:Pens in 6(Conn Smythe To Fleury)
MAX TO THE HOUSE: Pens in 6
ForeverFlyer16: Red Wings in 6
Unholy_Goalie: Red Wings in 6

Now its your turn what are your 2008 STANLEY CUP FINAL PREDICTIONS???

Changes On The Way

2008-05-18T02:30:00.005-04:00

In the coming weeks and months you may be seeing some changes here on Everything Hockey. We should be getting a newly designed template soon, so if the site starts to act up, don't worry, we're not going away. We also plan on purchasing a domain name in the near future.

We are always looking for more bloggers to keep the site as up to date as possible, so if you are interested, even in the slightest, drop us an email at everythinghockey (at) gmail (dot) com

This summer we will be as active as ever with our recaps of the year that was, and projections of the year to come. I am also working on getting some more interviews for you guys.

These are exciting times for the blog, and we thank our readers for their wonderful comments!

Greg Balloch

New Leafs Managment, Same Boneheaded Mistakes

2008-05-13T21:13:00.004-04:00

Hey, good news Leafs fans. Your minor league affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, just capped an improbable comeback in the North Division Final, beating the Syracuse Crunch 4 games to 3 after being down 3 games to 1.

Is that really good news?

Is it?

Surely this bodes well for the Leafs future, right?

Only good things can come from young future #1 netminder Justin Pogge racking up important playoff minutes, right?

Ha ha, nice try.

Somehow, some way the Leafs organization has managed to screw things up in what seemed to be a great situation.

Let's flashback to last season in the AHL. The Hamilton Bulldogs, the affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, realized that they were going to make the playoffs, and have a somewhat decent shot. They also saw that their future #1 netminder Carey Price's season was over in the WHL. They put two-and-two together, and made him the starter for the Bulldogs. They put the success of their AHL team behind the experience and progress of who was to be the future of the organization. They did the right thing, and even won on top of that.

Fast-forward to before the playoffs began in the AHL this season. The Marlies, finishing first in their division, and second in the western conference, realized that they have a decent shot at winninng it all. They had their meetings, talked to members of the Leafs head brass about what to do, and came to a conclusion. They were going to start Scott Clemmensen. He is going to give them the best shot to "win."

Woah, woah, woah, woah, woah.

Woah.

Is the AHL really about winning? Far from it. It's a developmental league for the NHL and players who will someday play in the NHL. Is Scott Clemmensen going to play in the NHL again? Maybe a few games here and there, maybe a back-up spot somewhere. Is Justin Pogge going to play in the NHL? He is going to be the Leafs #1 starter one day!

I really hope you're seeing the point I am making here, or else you may be just as slow as the Leafs management, and if you are, I apologize.

What really boggles my mind is that Justin Pogge even had a good season. It's not like they're throwing some stiff in there, it's Justin freakin' Pogge! He had a 2.34 goals against and .908 save percentage in 41 games, not too shabby! He really, really should be starting in this year's Calder Cup playoffs, and if the Leafs organization had any kind of sense in them whatsoever, they would realize that winning is always put behind the progress of prospects in the AHL. Always.

So Leafs fans, if you see Scott Clemmensen hoisting the Calder Cup on the news next month, think twice before getting excited. Maybe the Leafs should have thought twice about the future of their goaltending. They would have seen that it doesn't include the likes of Scott Clemmensen.

Knee or No Knee...

2008-04-25T01:29:00.006-04:00

That is the question being raised following game one of the Montreal/Philadelphia series. With the score at 3-2 Philadelphia late in the third period, the Flyers Mike Richards was called for what some are saying (mostly distraught Flyers fans) was a "questionable" kneeing call. Here are some pictures to state each side's case.

From this angle it looks as if the shoulder of Richards is laying the blow on Kovalev, causing him to spin out and fall.
I believe that the angle in that picture is deceiving. From the side angle, a picture taken at roughly the same time shows that Kovalev's shoulder is well past Richards' and the knee is delivering the blow.
Either way, the call was made and Richards was sent to the box for two. The Habs managed to score on the powerplay with their net empty. They went on to win it in overtime. When all is broken down, Flyers fans have no right to criticize the referees. It was close enough not to warrant a blown call, but just a discretionary call that happened to go against them. The fact is, the Flyers blew a 2-0 lead, and a 3-2 lead late. One of their goals went in off of a skate and could have easily been called back, so not every call was made against them, like some will make it sound . Here's the Youtube video for you to decide in real-time:

The Avery Rule Now In Effect

2008-04-14T15:51:00.004-04:00

Sean Avery is the worst kind of loser you can find. He not only gets under your skin, but he crosses the line, gets away with it, then lets you know he got away with it. What you just saw in that video was (and I use past tense for a reason) against the rules.

Rule 41 - Abuse of Officials and other Misconducts G) A misconduct penalty shall be imposed on any player who persists in any course of conduct (including threatening or abusive language or gestures or similar actions) designed to incite an opponent into incurring a penalty.

What's that you say? It was in the rule book already? Why the referee did not call it in the first place is beyond me. This is not what the NHL wants to look like. You cannot pick up your blade and wave it in front of another player's face, regardless if you make contact.

I would have been fine with a stern warning if it was anyone but Sean Avery. Another point I have to make is, this only sheds negative light on the Rangers. A leader from the Rangers (if they have any) should have stepped up and told him to settle down. I understand that it is the playoffs and you want to get into the opponent's head, but don't make it as obvious as that.

The NHL has decided to give an interpretation to the rule I quoted earlier, aiming it at Avery's antics.

An unsportsmanlike conduct minor penalty (Rule 75) will be interpreted and applied, effective immediately, to a situation when an offensive player positions himself facing the opposition goaltender and engages in actions such as waving his arms or stick in front of the goaltender's face, for the purpose of improperly interfering with and/or distracting the goaltender as opposed to positioning himself to try to make a play.

For one, I applaud them.

The Mark Bell Hit: Was it Clean?

2008-04-05T19:35:00.005-04:00

The Senators may be in trouble even though they managed the squeak into the playoffs. No, it's not their goaltending woes (which are non-existent), it's their loss of both their Captain Daniel Alfredsson and Mike Fisher to injuries. Both of the injuries occurred Thursday night in their 8-2 victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs, and both came at the hands of Leafs forward Mark Bell. A recent TSN.ca poll has revealed 82% of viewers think that the Sens can't win in the playoffs without their captain. The injury to Fisher is not really arguable since it was only a small collision, which you cannot blame Bell for. His injury was a fluke. The hit that injured Alfredsson, on the other hand, has been quite the hot topic.

I believe it was clean. I'm probably one of the biggest Leaf "jokers" ("haters" is just too strong) around, so this determination is not biased whatsoever. I think that if Alfredsson got up uninjured, this hit would just be on the highlight reel of every sports station and not ripped apart like it has been. Of course the reason people say he got hurt was because of the way Bell hit him.

The way Mark Bell hit Daniel Alfredsson caused him to get injured.

That is absolutely correct.

Was the hit illegal in any way? Not at all. Bell caught Alfredsson in a vulnerable position and punished him the way any good NHL checker does. If that's dirty then so be it, hockey is a dirty sport by their standards.

We should be worried much more about REAL head shots (and the people who go around looking for them), hits from behind, and protecting the goaltenders. Hits like these can stay in my NHL.

**You can vote on whether it was a clean hit or not on the top right hand corner of this site**

Potential Playoff Series: Habs vs. Caps

2008-04-04T18:12:00.000-04:00

Before I begin, let me start by saying this is not written in stone yet, but if the playoffs were to start today, this would be the best series throughout the first round of playoff hockey. While the Capitals still require lady luck on their side, it's important to note that their chances are significantly higher considering the Flyers are going head-to-head with the Pittsburgh Penguins and New Jersey Devils for their final two games of the regular season. Meanwhile, the Capitals will be hosting the Florida Panthers for their final game -- not exactly an overly difficult game. Still, what we must keep in mind is that the Capitals do not control their destiny; so once again, lady luck will have to be sitting on their shoulder.

Throwing aside all these implications, let's look at what a possible Habs vs. Caps playoffs series would deliver. The first thing you can expect is an overhaul of intensity from both clubs. You can certainly expect Capitals goaltender Cristobal Huet to raise his game to new levels in an attempt to prove his old team wrong. Ever since the 33-year old has been traded, he's polished his game to become a much more reliable netminder. Huet was often criticized for weak goals and durability issues. Both of those things have gotten considerably better since arriving in Washington, winning his last three starts with a 0.67 GAA and a .971 SV%. One thing is for certain, the goaltending battle between former teammates Carey Price and Huet would make this one of the best series in the playoffs.

While the Habs have been scorching hot lately, Price has been better. The 20-year old goaltender has raised his game to new heights ever since the departure of Huet. While he had minor problems with questionable goals earlier in the season, he has rounded his game to become an undisputed #1 goaltender in this league. The Vancouver native has accumulated 23 wins, a 2.60 GAA, a .919 SV% and 3 shutouts in 40 games played. Sensational numbers considering he's playing his rookie season -- at 20 years old! Perhaps the best contributor to Price's success is his positional play. While he possesses a huge frame at 6'3, 226 lbs., he makes himself even bigger with superb positioning. Another thing that must be mentioned is that the kid is fazed by absolutely nothing, and he's capable of keeping his cool in the biggest of games. Despite all of his impressive abilities, Price will have to follow through in the playoffs, standing as the Habs best player. As we all know, a good team means nothing in the post-season unless you have a goaltender ready to steal you games.

The second thing you can expect is goals, and a lot of them with Alexander Ovechkin in the mix. The 22-year old has become the NHL's best player this season, posting an incredible league leading 65 goals and 112 points with a +28 rating in 81 games played. His explosive speed, big hits, ferocious wrist shots and incredible intensity are what make him impossible to contain for a full 60 minutes. The Russian sensation will undoubtedly win the Rocket Richard and Art Ross Trophies respectively, with a chance for the Hart Trophy as well. While the Habs contain one of the best defensive clubs of the East, they will not be able to stop Ovechkin, just slow him down a little. While the Caps have offensive threats in Alexander Semin and Niklas Backstrom, the key to any playoff success lies with Ovechkin.

In the other end, the Habs host the best offensive club in the league this season, scoring an impressive 259 goals for. The key to their offensive success lies in Alexei Kovalev and Tomas Plekanec. The duo has been explosive in the offensive zone this season, displaying great chemistry together. Fantastic puck control, superb passing and incredible patience is what makes the Habs such a threat going into the playoffs. The club has placed themselves 1st overall on the powerplay (24.3%) because of this, and it will prove to be a huge factor once the playoffs begin. Despite the play of Kovalev and Plekanec, the Habs have had balanced scoring throughout the season, the 3rd and 4th line chipping in for offensive production. If the Habs can follow through with superb goaltending, balanced scoring and solid defensive play, there wonât be many teams who can stop them. But if you ask me, out of all the possible opponents the Habs could be facing, the Capitals should be the most feared.

Playoff Battles for the Leafs

2008-03-25T18:14:00.002-04:00

In spite of all the negative attention surrounding the Leafs lately, I thought I'd take a different angle and -- god forbid -- take a look to the future of a possible playoff berth. While the Leafs have their work cut out for them, itâs not impossible for them to attain post-season play. While it may seem improbable considering the teams they must leapfrog, the recent play of the Buds suggests they got the heart to overcome such odds.

What stands between the Leafs and 8th place are the Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres,

Washington Capitals, and last but not least, the Boston Bruins. In order for the Leafs to be considered serious contenders for the dubious position, they would have to win atleast 5 of their last 6 games, garnering 10 pts out of a possible 12. But even that might not be enough, most likely putting them in the placing their all too familiar with, the dreaded 9th place.

However, the Leafs will need to play at their absolute best, and while their recent play without Mats Sundin and Nik Antropov has been impressive, they will need to withstand the upcoming schedule without the pair for a little longer. Consistency will be key here, something the Leafs have struggled with all season long. A huge part to their recent upswing as been the emergence of Matt Stajan and Alexander Steen, the two have displayed strong leadership for the Buds, and have produced points consistently in the past few weeks. But with the upcoming double-header against the Bruins, the pair will have to solidify themselves as the teamâs leaders if the Leafs wish to even flirt with a possible playoff berth.

With all that said, let's assume the Leafs do make the playoffs. What are the possible team's they would face? Is it possible to advance to the 2nd round against any of these foes? The answer is yes. Here's your preview:

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

Season Series: 2-2

When I think of this potential playoff match, goals are what instantly come to mind. The emergence of Evgeni Malkin in the absence of Sidney Crosby has been beyond impressive. The kid has established himself as a true first line winger and franchise player for the Pens. Once "Sid The Kid" returns from his injury, you can bet these two will be causing loads of havoc on the powerplay, and head coach Micheal Therrien will be looking to give Malkin the same kind of ice-time he's receiving now. While the Leafs can handle faster teams more efficiently this season, I highly doubt they would be able to contain their offense for an entire series. While goaltender Vesa Toskala has been great for the Leafs, his durability is still a concern considering his career high in games played was 38 before this season.

Outcome: Pens in 5 games

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. New Jersey Devils

Season Series: 4-0 Devils

If the Leafs were to enter the playoffs facing the Devils, Iâd bet it would end much like the season series. The Devils play trap hockey, and magnificent goaltending from Martin Brodeur helps them perfect the style of play. The Leafs offense is anything but explosive and their defense has been mediocre for most of the season. Their only prayer would lie with Toskala, and that would be quite the challenge for the 31-year old netminder, who's played game after game for the Buds this season.

Outcome: Devils in 5 games

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens

Season Series: 3-3 as of now

What a treat this would be, the two most passionate fan bases colliding for post-season supremacy. Whether you hate the Habs or the Leafs, we must all respect the rivalry that has evolved between these two ever since the league began in 1916. With this particular series, it doesn't matter what place both teams finish, because both clubs always play above their heads when they meet up at centre-ice --especially the Leafs. Both clubs have enjoyed great goaltending this season, but the Habs have something special in Carey Price. The 20-year old netminder will be the go-to guy going into the playoffs, and those who have watched him know that he is capable of handling his own. While the Habs have a young team, they have no shortage of leadership with the likes of Saku Koivu and Alexei Kovalev leading the charge. The key to this series would be physical play, and strong puck movement. One thing is for certain, however, if the Leafs are to beat the Habs in the playoffs, it would definitely require a healthy Mats Sundin.

Outcome: Leafs in 7 games

As you may have noticed, I did not add the Ottawa Senators to possible playoff opponents. This is due to the fact that they are now 7 points behind 1st place, and I find it highly improbable that they attain the position. But, barring a miracle, it would be an instant classic to see the Leafs and Sens gear up for another round of playoff battle.

With all that said, this could all be for not if the Leafs don't win their upcoming games. It starts tonight with the Boston Bruins.

Shedding Light on Vesa Toskala and the Leafs Future

2008-03-22T19:10:00.001-04:00

After the recent 174-foot goal Vesa Toskala allowed against the Islanders, many non-Leafs fans may question the 31 year old goaltender, but that would be a mistake if you're not aware what kind of season he's endured with the Blue and White.

To begin, when the Leafs acquired Vesa Toskala in the summer, they were not expecting top five quality goaltending. Fact is, Toskala had been a career back-up goaltender to Evgeni Nabokov on the San Jose Sharks for most of his career. In the last two seasons with the Sharks, injuries to Nabokov gave Toskala the call as the starting goaltender, and he performed brilliantly. In fact, he played in the playoffs for San Jose that season, making it to the second round. Toskala finished the playoffs with a 2.45 goals-against-average and a .910 save percentage. However, last season there was a fierce goaltending battle between the two, and at year's end head coach Doug Wilson decided to trade one of them to have an undisputed starter for his club, clearing cap space in the process. He opted with Toskala after attempting to trade Nabokov's 5.1 million contract proved too be difficult. He was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, a city where the scrutiny can be too much to handle for many, and often the pressure can ruin careers. The Leafs extremely critical fan base and media are constantly judging the professional athletes that represent their city, and most times, they deem unfair opinions of them. What no one was expecting, however, was the puzzling downfall of Toronto's defense. A position that was weak last season is being even more exposed this season, and it's essentially the same core.

Vesa Toskala was then thrown into the fire. He began with a sub-par pre-season, and immediately the fans and media were on his back, calling for the head of former Leafs GM, John Ferguson Junior. What many did not take into account, however, is that many goalies do not have great stats in pre-season, even future hall-of-famer Ed Belfour struggled in his pre-season debut for the Leafs a few years back. The negative attention was so overwhelming that even Doug Wilson came to defend Toskala, stating that he is a great goaltender and he's confident he'll do well in the hockey crazed city of Toronto. Shortly after this, the opening night of the regular season kicked off, a game which saw the Toronto Maple Leafs head-to-head with arch rivals, the Ottawa Senators. A difficult task considering the Senators has had the Leafs number in recent years. The Leafs lost both games against the Senators, and Toskala was once again questioned for his goaltending abilities.

While Toskala was not the goalie he is now, it's not as if the Leafs defense were helping, consistently coming up with mediocre efforts to defend their goaltender. Part of the problem was that they often left one offender in front of the net unharmed, because the two defensemen were chasing one forward in particular. Not only that, but the Leafs couldn't get control in their own zone; every game they were struggling for possession of the puck and the opposition took full advantage, making the Leafs defenders look like pylons. That's not all either, when the attackers were entering the zone, the defensemen often huddle up in the crease, screening Toskala in the process -- if they were planning to get a higher draft pick, bravo troops, bravo!

As the season progressed, so did Toskala, eventually ceasing all doubt that he is not a capable #1 goaltender. Clearly the issue was to adapt to his new team, and he did so fairly quick, covering up the defensive woes that plague this team night in and night out. Throughout the course of the season, he has consistently come up with game savers; giving the Leafs a chance to win games they have no business winning. Last season, the goaltending was a liability to the team, this season it is not.

What makes Toskala so valuable to the Leafs are his lighting quick reflexes, superb glove hand, fast lateral movement and his ability to steal games. While he is small at 5'10, he makes up for it by challenging the shooters at the appropriate times and possessing a cool demeanor. The man is fazed by absolutely nothing; he stays mentally strong no matter what the scenario, as he proved on the Island earlier this week. He currently holds a 31-22-6 record with a 2.57 GAA, a .909 SV% and 3 shutouts. Remarkable stats considering the Leafs were in the Eastern Conference basement for the better part of the season.

However, next season may once again surface some interesting decisions going into the Trade Deadline. If Cliff Fletcher is true to his word, then the Leafs will forming a much different club next season, one that will hopefully consist of young players. And with Andrew Raycroft putting up another abysmal season -- even as the Buds back-up -- all signs point that the incumbent goaltender is on his way out, thus leaving the door wide open for Justin Pogge.

With that said, you can most certainly expect that Toskala will once again be the team's go-to guy, only difference being that Pogge will be his back-up, so you can expect a shortened work load for the Finnish netminder. One has to wonder though, if Pogge delivers some solid performances will the next GM of the Leafs look into trading Toskala? The Buds would be able to acquire a vast portion of prospects, which would do nothing but help this wounded franchise. If the Leafs do decide to rebuild, then having a 23 year old goaltender in Pogge will not be the end of the world, and he can grow with the young team in the process.

Some Humor To Lighten Up Your Day 2

2008-03-22T09:32:00.004-04:00

Thats all.....for now

OVIES BEST FRIEND!

Amateur Scouting Report: Justin Pogge

2008-03-22T01:39:00.003-04:00

I had an opportunity to see the Leafs future #1 netminder tonight, as his Marlies visited Hamilton in the first game of a home-and-home, picking up a 3-2 victory in overtime. I say "future #1" with conviction after what I saw tonight. Not that there was any doubt before I got to see him in person, we all remember his great World Junior run, a tournament where he was named MVP of the gold medal winning Canadian squad.

First Impression

At first glance he looks very big, and takes up a lot of net. He is strong and powerful, but his balance and skating could still be improved. He likes to wander when playing the puck, but has a hard shot and great hockey sense. He always seems to know where his teammates are, and is able to get them the puck, even under pressure. That doesn't mean he is immune from any mistakes. A couple of times tonight he was caught hanging on to the puck for too long, and it nearly cost him.

Pros

He uses his size to his advantage, cutting down the angle very well. He is rarely caught out of position because of his power, which is a credit to his conditioning. His rebound control and reflexes both seem to be above-average, although one of the goals was scored when he got a large piece of a puck with his glove hand, it popped up in the air and landed in the net. I would write that off as a fluke because even getting his glove on the shot in the first place was remarkable.

Cons

His only downsides are his skating and balance, and they aren't even that bad. I'm really nitpicking when I say those are issues. They are just some areas he can improve at, although he is already better than most goaltenders in those areas. His maturity has also improved from last year, he now knows player's tendencies and has adapted very well to professional hockey.

Future

Pogge's future remains unchanged from when they brought him up from the Calgary Hitmen. Play 2 or 3 years in the AHL and gradually make his way to the #1 job in Toronto. I believe that a 3rd year in the AHL can only be a good thing for Pogge. There is absolutely no reason to rush him, especially when it is up to a lackluster team such as the Leafs. I can see him splitting time with Vesa Toskala next season, but I wouldn't like it. It's not that he can't handle it, he's just as ready as Carey Price, but he can only get better from playing in the AHL. The Leafs don't need him, and shouldn't waste him. I know for Leafs fans keeping Pogge down in the minors feels a little like Christmas Eve, but it's for the better if you wait until morning to open your present. You don't want to spoil the surprise.

The Unexpected: Vancouver Canucks

2008-03-21T01:07:00.001-04:00

*NOTE*: I am currently writing a series of blogs discussing certain teams who I think have the best chance of winning the Cup. However, these clubs consist of teams whose expectations were low to start the season, or now, right before the playoffs. So far, I've I wrote about three of these clubs, the Montreal Canadiens, the New York Rangers and the Calgary Flames.

The final team I will be writing about is the Vancouver Canucks. I know what you’re thinking, this club is not exactly struggling so it seems odd that I would put them in the unexpected list, but I have not heard analysts around the hockey world mention the Canucks to win the Stanley Cup. They are a team that will lurk in the shadows once April comes around, that is, until they make it deep into the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

While the Canucks aren’t particularly strong offensively (193 GF), they have the best goaltender in the NHL with Roberto Luongo and a strong defense to accompany him. On most nights, the Canucks are saved with tremendous goaltending that repeatedly gives the offense a chance to strike back. While it has proved to be a hit and miss scenario, the Canucks have the forwards to be a threat in the opposition’s zone, they just need them to realize that.

Let’s start with the team captain, Markus Naslund. At 34 years old, Naslund is beginning to show signs of aging, decreasing in points as the season’s pass. This season, he’s failed to establish himself as the team’s best player, only being able to produce 23 G and 53 PTS respectively. However, Naslund’s presence is still a must if the Canucks wish to attain the Stanley Cup Finals. Known as a quiet leader, Naslund has gained the respect of his teammates, and rightfully so. While he is struggling to produce, his presence brings out the best of everyone on that bench, which is essential going into the playoffs.

Another important forward for the Canucks is Daniel Sedin. While he works tremendously with his brother, Daniel is a special player in his own way. Establishing himself as a goal-scorer, Daniel has great hockey sense and it allows him to find open ice. While he is a threat offensively, he is also solid defensively. However, he’s dropped in the goals and points department scoring 26 G and 67 PTS so far compared to his 36 G and 84 points last season. Still, Daniel and his brother Henrik are proving to be the Canucks top scorers, producing consistently to garner the ‘Nucks some W’s under their belt.

Where there’s Daniel Sedin, there’s Henrik Sedin close by. The brothers have formed innate chemistry together, feeding of one another’s raw skill to play the puck with precision, or snipe it past the goaltender. Henrik is the playmaker of the duo, but it’s not as if he can’t score some goals (15 so far). While both the brothers have great defensive tendencies, Henrik is more reliable in that department; mainly due to the physical edge he brings to the table. Like Daniel, he too is struggling compared to last season, but they still remain one of the team’s best players.

As far as leadership is concerned, Brendan Morrison is a huge factor for the Canucks. When Morrison is in the line-up, the Canucks are instilled with pride, determination and character. The 32 year old can produce offensively as well, recording 9 G and 24 PTS in just 35 games this season after a wrist injury set him back. In Morrison, the Canucks have a good face-off man, an excellent playmaker, and a powerplay specialist. If he continues to stay healthy, he will play a vital part to the Canucks’ success in the playoffs.

While Matthias Ohlund is out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury, he will be an important player once the playoffs begin. Ohlund has size, mobility, a good hockey sense and a blast from the point. While he has the tools to be a huge factor offensively, he struggles to find consistency in that department. However, Ohlund is capable of shutting down the best forwards in the league, and this makes him a crucial part to the Canucks’ defense core.

If there is an intimating defenseman on the Canucks, it’s most certainly Kevin Bieksa. To go along with his big shot from the point, Bieksa loves to initiate the physical aspects of his game. He is defensively responsible and his durability will be well appreciated in the playoffs. After returning from a calf laceration injury, Bieksa is beginning to play at full potential once again, and just in time.

The key to any Canucks success is the play of Roberto Luongo. He is the team MVP and league superstar. At 28 years old, Luongo is one of the game’s best for possessing great size, fast speed, perfect butterfly positioning and having the ability to steal games. In the playoffs last year he posted an incredible 1.77 GAA and a .941 SV% in 12 games. If Luongo can produce those types of numbers again, you can bet that the Canucks won’t have to worry about goaltending issues.

With this core intact, the Canucks have the potential to do some serious damage in the post-season. However, the main concern still lies with their offensive production. If team captain Markus Naslund can inspire better efforts from his troops, the Canucks will host an all-around solid group of players.

A Little Humor To Lighten Up Your Day

2008-03-20T08:46:00.002-04:00

This is courtesy of Number 23 of Hockeybuzz.com:

Throughout its history, the NHL has had its share of "characters," and now is no different.

We all know that John Tortorella looks like Fonzie and Sidney Crosby looks like Butt-head, but here's a few you might not have noticed...

Jacques Martin / Ratatouille

I wonder what kind of chef Martin is...

Jack McIlhargey / Waldorf

Each knows what it's like to sit in "the box."

Pierre McGuire / Mr.Peanut

But which is really nuttier?

Mike Milbury / Jughead

No arguments from Long Island, I'll bet!

Don Cherry / Clarabell

If only Cherry talked like him, too.

Rick Jeanneret / Al Czervik (from Caddyshack)

"Hey everybody, the population of Pominville's gonna get laid!"

Great job Number 23

I hope to be doing one of these every week or maybe every day but im not sure check into the site and you will be sure to find out!

Ovie's Best Friend

The Unexpected: Calgary Flames

2008-03-17T12:35:00.001-04:00

*NOTE*: I will be writing a series of blogs discussing a handful of teams whose expectations were minimal to start the season or even now. Within these teams, I believe one will take home the Stanley Cup to their franchise. So far, I've I wrote about two of these clubs, the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Rangers.

The Calgary Flames didn't start off with loads of potential going into the season, but with each passing game the club is finding their identity, one that got them into the Stanley Cup Finals a few years ago.

They began the year entrenched with inconsistency, frustration and false hope. Personally, I had them penciled out of the playoffs as soon the doom and gloom was in full effect. But one of the main reasons I think differently now is because of the way they're turning this ship around, and finding it within themselves to perform at a new level.

Bare with me when I predict such a thing as the Flames winning the Cup, because the gears aren't in full capacity yet, and the club has some questions to overcome. For one, while superstar goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff is performing better in the last months, he needs to reestablish himself as one of the teams franchise players. He struggled from the get-go, posting one of the league's worst stats amongst goaltenders, but since then he has gone nowhere but upward, slowly displaying the skills that made him a coveted top 5 goaltender just last season. Being a big fan of "Kipper", I've always admired his concentration, sound positioning and ability to perform at new levels in big games -- something that has slipped from him a bit this season. However, things are beginning to look promising going into the playoffs, with a 5-2-2 record, 1.79 GAA, and a .948 SV% in his last 9 games, Kiprusoff is delivering the kind of goaltending that is required to win the Stanley Cup.

Perhaps the most integral part to any Flames success is that of Captain Jarome Iginla. The 30-year old, Alberta native is dominating the NHL this season, placing 3rd amongst forwards in points with 86 -- 44 of those being goals. His lethal shot, blazing speed and team character has not gone unnoticed, and he remains a fan favorite in Calgary for his efforts. In the 2003 NHL Playoffs, "Iggy" posted an impressive 13 goals and 22 points in 26 games. If the Flames want to make it that far again, Iginla will have to raise his game even more, further proving he is the ultimate leader for this team.

When speaking of impact players on the Flames, it's hard not to think of Alex Tanguay. While he has not enjoyed a productive season (16G, 52PTS), he is crucial to any kind of Stanley Cup run the Flames might embark on in April. His tremendous speed, soft hands, and creativity are what make him such a versatile playmaker. He has the potential to be the Flames second best forward, and if he can find his game, he will prove to be a valuable linemate to Iginla on the powerplay.

Kristian Huselius is adding to his break-out performance last year, the 29-year old has compiled 64 points and 24 goals this season, proving to be one of the Flames most reliable scorers. The fast, skillful playmaker showed his true potential in the 06-07 NHL campaign, where he garnered an impressive 77 points and 34 goals to end the season. If the Flames want balanced scoring, they canât depend solely on Iginla, it's up to players like Huselius to form a reliable supporting cast.

As we all know, defense wins championships, and it all starts with Dion Phaneuf. He is a hitting machine, laying out any opponents that stand in his way. To go along with that, he possesses a big shot from the point that is capable of making him a consistent 20+ goal scorer in the NHL (he has already reached 20 goals in just his rookie season). What makes Phaneuf so special is that he is displays a remarkable two-way game for a young defenseman. While he is not perfect in his own end, he continues to improve and shows signs of becoming a Norris Trophy winner in the very near future.

Daymond Langkow is enjoying another productive season, scoring 27 goals and 60 points so far. While he lacks the consistency to be a true first line center, his two-way ability has made him a vital part to the second line. At 31 years old, Langkow implements some veteran presence to this Flames club, further stabilizing the conservative game that has brought much of the Flames success.

In Robyn Regehr, the Flames have their shut-down defenseman. Regehr displays a great hockey sense, defensive responsibility, an exemplary work ethic, and a big frame. While he is not a threat offensively, he has a fairly accurate point shot, making him more mobile in key situations. At 27-years old, Regehr will get better, and eventually establish himself as one of the gameâs best defensive defenseman.

With this core intact, the Flames have a shot at winning the Stanley Cup. Playing at full potential, they can display the physical edge, balanced scoring and spectacular goaltending that it requires in the prolonged weeks ahead.

The Unexpected: New York Rangers

2008-03-13T13:30:00.001-04:00

*NOTE*: I will be writing a series of blogs discussing a handful of teams whose expectations were minimal to start the season or even now. Within these teams, I believe one will take home the Stanley Cup to their franchise.

The second team I will be writing about is the New York Rangers. They debuted their off-season with a bang last summer, acquiring the likes of Scott Gomez and Chris Drury to an already offensive core. However, opinions varied whether or not this would prove to be a success.

As of today, they sit at 6th place in the Eastern Conference (37-24-9) and 5 points from 1st place. Much of their success has come from rock solid goaltending and reliable defense. While Drury and Gomez are not deemed failures, there is no player on their roster that has enjoyed a spectacular season offensively. In fact, not one player has a point-per-game, Gomez being the closest with 66 points in 70 games.

However, head coach Tom Renney has found an effective strategy for his forwards, separating his star players throughout three lines to form a good mix of offensive and defensive responsibility. The Rangers have potential to be an explosive team offensively, but they are currently struggling in the goal scoring department. If some of their key players can get back on track, the Rangers will be a complete team with minimal flaws aside from team character.

Imagine what a rejuvenated Jagr would do to the Rangers offense and team in general. He has only accumulated 18 goals and 59 points this season, quite low considering he won the Art Ross two years ago and posted 96 points last year. Don't be mistaken, if the Rangers are going to win anything this season, it will be because of this man. When he's on fire, so are the Rangers. And while he makes questionable decisions in his own end, he more than makes up for it if he's sniping goals and creating plays like used to.

A big reason as to why I think the Rangers have a good shot at the Cup is mainly due to their goaltending. "King Henrik" has had two Vezina Trophy nominations in the past two seasons and is capable of stealing games on a nightly basis. He displays a cool demeanor, quick reflexes, an incredible glove hand and perfect butterfly positioning. He has posted a 32-21-7 record to go along with a .910 SV%, 2.30 GAA and a remarkable 9 shutouts. As we all know, goaltending is the most crucial aspect to make a run for the Stanley Cup, and the Rangers don't have to worry about that.

A player who cannot go unnoticed for his efforts is Brendan Shanahan. At 39 years old he continues to be a force offensively, scoring 22 goals in 62 games this season. Serving as a veteran presence, he is an excellent mentor for players like Brandon Dubinsky and Nigel Dawes, displaying emotion and aggressiveness to his game. With an old-school wrist shot at his disposal, "Shanny" is a keeper once the playoffs come around.

In the off-season, many analysts questioned the Rangers' defense, and whether it would be enough to withstand the 82-game schedule. As you can tell, that criticism has ceased. The Rangers' defense has not been outstanding, but they have displayed a reliable, simple strategy. On most nights, they go unnoticed by viewers, and this is not a bad thing. It means they are doing their job and are not getting caught in their own zone with bad defensive decisions.

Going into the playoffs, you can imagine the Rangers won't be discussed as Cup favorites or even making a significant run. I think that's false, if the Rangers can polish all facets of their game to new levels, they will be a force to be reckoned with. While they have had problems with motivation and team character, it appears as though it builds stronger with every game, and once the playoffs start it's up to the players to redefine and strengthen it to new levels.

Wanted: Fresh Ideas for Increasing Scoring

2008-03-12T12:41:00.002-04:00

Night after night on Sportscentre, hockey fans across North America are seeing 5-4, 4-3, or 4-2 games. Even with goal scoring on the rise (5 players have legitimate shots at 100 points this season) we all know it's only a matter of time before someone chimes up about how we can increase scoring in the NHL. I really don't think it's needed based on the statistics, but ideas are still being thrown around. Shrinking goalies, expanding nets, and allowing more curved sticks have all been suggested as ways we can go about doing that. None of these ideas are the "perfect" idea. There are clear flaws in each of them.

Shrinking goalies may work to an extent, but I fail to see how it will have a drastic effect on goal scoring. Some of the flaps on the pads, extra material on the pants, and extra pieces on the gloves can be eliminated, but goalies will cope. Suggesting a significant drop in equipment size couldn't be more wrong. People who suggest that fail to realize that the players who are taking shots are bigger and stronger than ever. Combine that with the composite sticks, and it's a deadly combination. If a puck catches you in an awkward spot, you could break a rib easily (See: Luongo earlier this year) I even asked Cedrick Desjardins of the Hamilton Bulldogs about it in an earlier interview, and he feels the same way. "You can try to change the equipment on the goalie instead, but make sure he is still safe." It's a valid point because goaltenders are not just "playing the system" like some fans believe, they honestly do not want to get injured. Wouldn't you want the most amount of protection possible if you were throwing your body in front of 100 MPH slap shots?

Now, expanding nets is a whole other situation. We've all seen the pictures of the net with the enlarged corners, you know, the ones that make every hockey purist cringe. They tried these out in some rookie camps a few years ago, but the amount of goal scoring didn't seem to change. In fact, it went down, and I quote Cedrick again "I tried it at rookie camp with Montreal, in Toronto, and they had the bigger nets but the scores were still, like 3-1, 2-1, so it wasn't a big difference. They were a little bit bigger, but it didn't change it that much." To some, the thought of changing the very fabric of the game, a 4x6 net, is insane. Not only would it piss of the purists, it would reduce the quality of goals scored. Shots high blocker would start to be scored on a more than regular basis. It's not physically possible for a goaltender carrying a stick to bring his blocker up that high in a split second. Who wants to see guys step over the blue line and just wire it high blocker? The butterfly style has caused players to find highlight reel ways to score goals, which is only a good thing for the league.

I like the idea of allowing bigger curves to an extent. Unlimited curves should not be allowed, like some have suggested. We don't want to make it so that players can roof the puck with the flick of a wrist (and it would completely eliminate the backhand) but, the rule should be lessened year after year until we find the appropriate curve limit. But again I am forced to ask the question, will this really have a huge effect on goal scoring?

That's where you, the reader, comes in. I want to hear about some fresh, new ideas for increasing scoring. Everyone is sick of the ideas that have been thrown around for years, now show us something new. Don't suggest something that the league would never go for, but something plausible that people may have over looked. Lets hear it!

The Unexpected: Montreal Canadiens

2008-03-10T17:37:00.001-04:00

I will be writing a series of blogs discussing a handful of teams whose expectations were minimal to start the season or even now; within these teams, I believe one will take home the Stanley Cup to their franchise. I am beginning with a team that was doubted from the get-go, the Montreal Canadiens.

After missing the playoffs in the 06/07 campaign, the Habs tweaked some of their woes by dipping in the UFA frenzy, acquiring D Roman Hamrlik, F Tom Kostoupolos and F Bryan Smolinski to bolster their club. Analysts, and fans alike, thought the subtraction of Sheldon Souray would cripple a strong power play, rendering them to the Eastern Conference basement. What made this prediction even more convincing for many was the fact that the Habs got rejected from superstar Daniel Briere, so the second-tier UFA's just didnât seem like enough. But what many forgot is that the Habs host a strong core of youngsters, and the acquisition of Carey Price to their goaltending would surely add more stability between the pipes.

Well, as of today, the Habs sit second place in the Eastern Conference with 38 wins in 70 games for 85 points. The reason for such success is mainly from the break through performances from the young guns. Tomas Plekanec is atop that category, he currently holds 27 goals and 63 points for second on the team in scoring. His speed and two-way ability is what makes him one of the Canadiens top players. While he is crafty and creative in the offensive zone, he plays almost as well in his own end. He doesn't hit the opposition like teammate Mike Komisarek, but he uses his incredible hockey sense to shut-down offenders down with tremendous stick work. In only his 3rd NHL season, his play shows great potential to be an impact #1 center. While he is behind Saku Koivu on the depth chart, he is now the true #1 on this team, centering a deadly line beside Andrei Kostitsyn and Alexei Kovalev.

Another young player who is making a big impression is Andrei Kostitsyn. In only his second NHL season he has posted 21 goals and 45 points so far. What is so impressive, however, is that he can keep up with top line minutes playing alongside Plekanec and Kovalev and barely show signs of slowing down. One of the main reasons the line shines of speed and creativity is that all three players hold similar traits. It's a scary thought when you consider that Plekanec might have the worst hands on the line. While Kostitsyn doesnât possess a strong two-way game, he has lots of room to improve in his own end. Every once in a while you will see him throw a big body check too, that is encouraging for the future.

The other Kostitsyn is not too shabby himself. Sergei Kostitsyn was a mid-season call-up, and after displaying raw ability in the offensive zone, the Habs couldn't send him back. Much like his brother, he lacks strong defensive play, but he makes up for it with creative playmaking and a knack for being at the right place at right time to finish a play. In a nutshell, he is exactly like his brother, displaying all the same positives and negatives. Look for them to be paired together in the near future.

While Christopher Higgins has not enjoyed a breakthrough season like the others, he is still developing nicely and shows signs of becoming a Chris Drury type player. In 70 games this season, he has 21 goals and 43 points. He has struggled at times during the season, much like his line mates, but his potential is uncanny. What makes Higgins highly touted in my eyes is his nose for the net and willingness to use his body to finish a play. To go along with that he is responsible in his own end, making him a valuable two-way forward. In Higgins the Habs have a potential 40-goal scorer and considering he has a big heart towards the game, I am excited to see his play come playoff time in a few weeks.

On the back-end, we have Mike Komisarek. Known as a stable defender and monster hitter, "Komi" has upped his game this season, flirting with top-end rankings in almost all defensive stats. Hits, blocked shots, he does it all. A crucial part of his game is his mean streak, if the Habs are in the thick of things, you can expect Komisarek to make sure his teammates aren't getting pushed around. While he rarely translates that with fists, he uses huge body checks to make his statement.

Then there's Carey Price, the now undisputed starting goaltender for the Habs. Touted as the next Luongo by many, he is enjoying a spectacular rookie season, posting a .913 SV%, 2.77 GAA, and 16 wins in 32 games. His big frame and clutch performances helping him along the way, the Habs are expecting him to carry them throughout the playoffs, hoping for a Hamilton Bulldogs repeat. If there is something I noticed about Price this season, it's that he is gradually getting better. His stats are slowly climbing by the game and his problem of letting in the occasional soft goal has slowed considerably. After goaltender Cristobal Huet was traded to the Washington Capitals, Price raised his game to another level, fully feeling the effects of being a starting goaltender in the NHL. If the Habs are going to win the Stanley Cup this season, it will be because of this man.

To go along with a strong core of young players, the Habs owe some of their success to the veterans, who have mentored and crafted the youngster to what they are. I'll start with Kovalev, the Russian native has re-surged this season, showing signs of his New York Rangers days. He is the leader of the Habs, placing first in team scoring with 73 points and 30 goals so far. His creative plays and outstanding hands is what makes him so dangerous, whether he snipes it from the slot or passes it to his line mates Plekanec and A.Kostitsyn, it doesnât matter, you better be prepared.

A player who has enjoyed a break-through season is Andrei Markov. All who have followed the Habs knew he had it in him, and it appears the departure of Sheldon Souray, making him the pillar on the power play, is just what the doctor ordered. With 14 goals and 54 points this season, it's hard to find negatives about Markov. His shot has improved tremendously, and combined with his accurate passing it makes him a major threat offensively. His defensive game is superb as well, he is not afraid to throw the body every once in a while and he plays a responsible and consistent defensive game.

UFA acquisition Roman Hamrlik has displayed a strong game as well this season, proving to be one of the Habs most valuable players on defense. While he has not garnered a ton of points this season (4 goals, 23 points) his defensive game is sound. His veteran presence has been nothing but beneficial for players like Komisarek too, backstopping one the Eastern Conferenceâs best defensive squads. It's no coincidence that the Habs went on a slump when Hamrlik was injured, only to find themselves back on track when he returned.

It's hard not to mention Koivu when speaking of any Habs success. While he is not posting numbers he did last season, his leadership and dedication to the Habs is unquestionable. Whether you notice his presence on the Habs or not, you can bet they would be a different team without Koivu in the locker room. While his flame may be starting to dim, the Habs must hold on to Koivu in the coming years if they wish to grasp Lord Stanley with this young squad.

A big part of the Habs success is the power play, and that is no secret. That's why it's so hard to not mention the underrated Mark Streit, who has posted 50 points and 12 goals so far this season. While he is not dependable in his own zone (-10) he has tremendous hockey sense in the offensive zone and sets up players beautifully from blue-line or from anywhere in the zone really -- which why he was often used as a forward on many nights.

Make no mistake, if the Habs core of players raises their game to a new level once mid-April comes around, I'd be very comfortable in predicting them to raise the Stanley Cup. What we must take into account however, is that much of the Habs success comes from the youngsters, and once the playoffs start it's a whole new level of play for them. The Habs will have to make a huge statement in the first round, and much of that will have to revolve around consistency and durability. Beyond that, anything can happen.

The Race for the Calder Trophy

2008-03-10T17:35:00.002-04:00

In roughly one month, the blazing turbines of a rookie race -- which is unfortunately getting ignored from the media -- will cease. Let's meet the candidates who will most likely raise some eyebrows for grasping the "Calder Trophy".

Patrick Kane: The 19-year old Buffalo native debuted his NHL career with the Chicago Blackhawks. Initial expectations were that Kane would follow in the shadow of the highly touted Jonathan Toews, but that proved to be false. Kane has emerged as the perfect line mate for Toews, feeding of each others raw skill to play the puck with precision, or snipe it top corner. But with a mid-season injury to Toews -- including roughly 5 other regulars -- Kane was counted on to carry the load, and that's what he did. What makes Kane such a tremendous player is his superb vision, prodigious puck-handling skills, and his playmaking abilities. For months he was the leader in the rookie scoring, just recently getting his 57 points surpassed by Washington Capitals rookie Niklas Backstrom, by 1 point.

Niklas Backstrom: The 4th overall pick in 2006 has emerged as one of the Washington Capitals best players. At 20 years old, he is finishing off a tremendous rookie season centering phenom Alexander Ovechkin. However, do not let such a fact cloud your judgment on him. Backstrom has worked for the opportunity, and heâs now taking full advantage of it. He currently leads the NHL in rookie points with an impressive 58 points. His playmaking abilities combined with maturity beyond his years gives a strong indication that Backstrom may very well walk away with the Calder.

Jonathan Toews: If it were not for a mid-season injury, Toews would be your Calder Trophy winner. He currently holds the best PPG amongst rookies with a .88 (18 G, 43 PTS in 49 games) and if it were not for the injury he would finish with the most goals as well. Toews is a product of solid, dependable two-way play. He is responsible in his own end and hockey sense and offensive creativity is uncanny. With a core of bright young players developing in Chicago, here is your franchise player.

Carey Price: With Cristobal Huet finding his way on the Capitals, Price is now the undisputed starter in Montreal. Sitting atop the Eastern Conference, the Canadiens are backstopped with a tremendous goaltender in the making that is experiencing the hype of the NHL's most hockey crazed city in just one season. What makes Price such a highly touted prospect is his solid positioning, clutch performances, smooth puck handling abilities, and a huge frame (6'3, 225 lbs.) among other things. In 31 games so far this season, he has posted a .913 SV%, 2.76 GAA, and 16 W to go along with 1 SO. What we must take into consideration is that Price is just 20 years old. The average age of a goaltender making an impact in the NHL is around 25 years old. This should play a huge part in deciding the Calder Trophy winner.

The winner will emerge within the list above in my opinion. Some dark horses may erupt near the end, like Peter Mueller or Erik Johnson, but if I was a betting man (which I'm not being a Leafs fan -- unless it's against them) I'd go with the before mentioned.

Personally, I am not comfortable even picking a winner, because I believe all of them have a significant shot at the Calder Trophy. Letting this intriguing story play itself out is what ultimately does it justice.

The Habs........Rise To The Top

2008-03-04T12:03:00.005-05:00

At the beginning of the 2007-08 NHL hockey season almost all NHL analyst and sports magazines and rankings had the Montreal Canadiens out of the playoffs. Their placements were between 15th spot in the conference all the way to 12th. Most people called them "an up and coming team for the future," others just called them too young to compete among the elite teams in the league. Almost all of them said in the next three years we will become a great team, but until then we were just average.

That was all the motivation the Habs needed. They found a first line in the Kovalev-Plekanec-A.Kostitsyn line and have solid goaltending with youngster Carey Price. Their defence tandem of Komisarek and Markov have helped out a ton, and in the words of Pierre Mcguire, Komisarek has been a "MONSTER". The addition of Roman Hamrlik at the beginning of the year had led to a steady defence with yet another youngster in Ryan O'Byrne helping the case.

One of the few minuses you can find are the fact that 2 of the players we acquired as free agents have not performed to their potential and are sitting in the press box as a waste of money. Tom Kostopoulos one of those wastes has showed some bright spots such as sticking up for his teammates, but he does not provide much (if any) scoring that is needed. Smolinski has not done a lot, and with hot forward Mikhail Grabovski coming in he wont get much playing time to prove anything. Do I really have to mention Brisebois?

Our coach, Guy Carbonneau, is in my opinion one of the most underrated coaches in the league. He is also a big reason to the success of this year. I think the fact that at the beginning of the year Carbonneau and Gainey sat down with their *STAR* Alexei Kovalev and had a chat about the upcoming season and I believe that is the thing that lit a spark under Kovalev's backside.

I believe that my team, the Montreal Canadiens, are a Stanley Cup Contender, but I also think "NEXT YEAR IS THE YEAR" of "THE CH".

Ovie's Best Friend

Digging Woes from Management

2008-03-01T23:50:00.003-05:00

This blog is specified between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins -- two teams that have felt the cold and unfair hand of management stamp down on decisions, exiling the General Managers. It is a process which can end a GM’s tenure quite easily. The management sees an opportunity, exploits it whether or not the GM sees fit, and the repercussions always fall squarely on the GM regardless.

In JFJ’s case, for example, is a man who was pulled down to the muck because of MLSE, despite his flaws in decision making. A few years ago -- when things were becoming amuck for the Blue and White faithful -- JFJ proposed a rebuilding plan to the upper management in hopes to ice a competitive team in the near future. His idea was shot down, thus forcing him to acquire players like Jason Blake, Mark Bell, Eric Lindros, Jason Allison, and Andrew Raycroft just to name a few. As you know, this type of thing does not project a team forward but rather guides them on a linear path, whatever their goal might be. In the Maple Leafs case, that goal was mediocrity, and boy oh boy did they nail it! In the past two seasons, the Leafs have missed the playoffs, landing in 9^th place both times. This season appears to hold the same fate for the Buds, but I suppose anything can happen in the NHL.

The point is, JFJ lost his job because MLSE felt that the team was going nowhere and needed a seasoned veteran like current Leafs-GM Cliff Fletcher to blow it up. There is something terribly wrong here. If MLSE would of followed through with JFJ’s initial plan, I wonder what the discussion would be involving the Leafs now days? Maybe speaking of the latest prospects that are tearing it up in the minors, or perhaps discussing the potential of a core a youngster on the Leafs. Instead, we have rants from some of Leafs Nation claiming that Mats Sundin has “let this team down” by not waiving his no-trade clause. It’s funny how that works, considering Sundin was hailed a hero 6 months ago.

Don’t blame JFJ entirely for the abundance of no-trade clauses on this team either. Sure it was partly his fault, but we must remember that he did not plan such a questionable stance for the Leafs to begin with. He worked with what he had, and was forced to propel them to the post-season, or just making 8^th place, whichever you prefer. Because of the ignorance of MLSE, JFJ lost his job.

A similar situation could reside with Pittsburgh Penguins-GM Ray Shero. Coming into the NHL Trade Deadline, Shero had plans to buff up his club heading into the playoffs. What he did not have plans for, however, is unloading a core of youth for superstar winger Marian Hossa. An all or nothing deal if you think about it. I fail to understand how the Pens will be able to lock-up all key players in the summer without going over the Cap. Especially considering Evgeni Malkin is finishing off a monster season. Regardless, Pens manager Mario Lemieux thought it would be a great addition to their club, so he enforced it upon Shero. And you can full well expect the repercussions to land on the GM should the deal be deemed a failure.

So with that in mind, it would appear there is a good chance that Shero’s job may be teetering from the result of this trade. This is no ordinary trade either, it’s huge. Fans of the Penguins will be calling for blood if the likes of Angelo Esposito, Erik Christensen, Colby Armstrong and 1^st round pick are all unloaded for nothing. Guess who takes the blame?

When the position of General Manager is awarded to an individual, it should ensure full autonomy. The decisions enforced by management should be changed to suggestions, thus implementing fair game for the GM. This would lay both the praise and blame on the individual, and like life teaches us, we learn from our mistakes and from our accomplishments – isn’t this how every job should be?

Amateur Scouting Report: Tobias Stephan

2008-02-29T22:42:00.006-05:00

When the Dallas Stars took Tobias Stephan 34th overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, they knew what they were getting. At 6'2" 190, Stephan is a tall and skinny young goaltender who plays mainly a stay-at-home butterfly style, with some floppiness to his game. He is currently playing for the AHL's Iowa Stars after spending 4 years with Kloten of the Swiss League.

Tonight, he was on his game. The "Baby"-Stars picked up a 6-0 win over the Hamilton Bulldogs on "Carey Price Bobblehead Night", with Stephan getting the shutout. Stephan wasn't too busy, facing only 23 shots, but stopping them all. The lackluster Bulldogs' offense only managed shots from the outside, a goalie's dream. Stephan was very square, but did not challenge very much. He stayed deep in his net, but kept the rebounds to a minimum.

He uses his long legs to his advantage, spreading them out low on point shots, virtually eliminating all goals from that area. His glove hand is not exceptionally great, but it's passable. His strength could also use some work, being only 190 pounds, he could really benefit from adding some muscle.

Stephan wears a Tim Thomas-like "Mage" helmet, that really bugs me. I prefer the classic goalie helmet a lot more. He was also called up for a brief stint this season with Dallas, losing 2-1 in overtime to Chicago on October 13th, 2007, so you may have heard his name. His future also looks very bright, as Mike Smith was traded to Tampa Bay at the deadline, leaving the back-up spot open if the Stars decide to dump Johan Holmqvist.

As for the Bulldogs side of things, it wasn't pretty. Yann Danis did not come out for the 3rd period, after letting in 5 goals. Fatigue was definitely an issue, and penalties really killed the Bulldogs. Cedrick Desjardins, who I interviewed earlier this season, got the nod for the 3rd period, and allowed 1 goal. He stopped 3 breakaways and made on left toe save on what many thought was a sure goal. Now the Desjardins has the full-time backup spot in Hamilton (Due to the Huet-to-Washington deal) he was looking to make an impression, and he played well. I would definitely give him the next start, especially since one of the goals on Danis was a dump in which he bobbled, and was banged in by an Iowa forward.

To conclude, Tobias Stephan is another young, promising goaltender playing in the "A." His future is in his hands, like most young netminders. His situation in the Stars' organization bodes well for him, and he should compete for the NHL back-up job in Dallas next season.

Chin Up: Better Days Ahead

2008-02-26T23:11:00.004-05:00

After a long and suspenseful NHL Trade Deadline, Maple Leafs GM Cliff Fletcher felt the ripple effects from former GM, JFJ. With Bryan McCabe, Mats Sundin, Tomas Kaberle, Darcy Tucker and Pavel Kubina all refusing to waive their respective no-trade clause agreement, “Silver Fox’’ had to chip away the outer core.

Hal Gill, Chad Kilger and Wade Belak are no longer Toronto Maple Leafs’. In exchange, the Leafs ended up acquiring a 2^nd, 3^rd, and two 5^th round picks at the end of the day. Hardly enough to bolster up a future for an abysmal Leafs club, but it’s a start. Cliff has sent a message this afternoon, and its music to my ears. “One thing I can assure you is that the face of the Maple Leaf hockey team come opening game in October will be different than it is right now. We have to change this team to move forward” said a frustrated Fletcher. As disappointing as this day was for him, this quote should bring chills to your spine, especially the last sentence.

Where Fletcher separates from the familiar Leafs attitude is realism. He doesn’t care that they are 6 points out and he has now made it clear he wants a good draft choice. All hope is gone for this club and Fletcher knows what needs to be done. Mark my words, he will lay a much better foundation for the next GM of this hockey team and Leafs fans everywhere will be able to wave the Leafs logo with some pride.

While you may think the subtractions to the team will not end the Leafs playoffs hopes…think again. What Cliff has done is eliminate the Leafs best defensive defenseman and most reliable defensive forward. It’s an area where this club has faltered even with those two. Expect to see a frustrated Vesa Toskala is all I have to say.

With that said, expect to see another defenseman on his way out in the summer. Kubina will no longer hold a NTC agreement in his contract if the Leafs miss the playoffs this season, an outcome which will surely happen. With Bryan McCabe and Tomas Kaberle all tied up, moving a pricy Kubina is going to be a move Fletcher can really benefit from. Not only will he clear up 5-million dollars in cap space, but he will clear a spot on the back-end for a young d-man, whether it is Staffan Kronwall or Phil Oreskovic.

What you also have to keep in mind is that the Leafs will more than likely host a team with no Mats Sundin next season. Add in a young and inexperienced defense core and this team will struggle tremendously to make the playoffs, or better yet, get out of the Eastern Conference basement.

Players like Tucker, McCabe and Kaberle may refuse to leave the club, but with some well strategized tweaking it is very likely the Leafs can turn this thing around. In 3 or 5 years, preferably 5, things may be glowing with optimism and playoff-like atmosphere.

Chin up.

Don't Hate On Jaromir

2008-02-24T18:09:00.001-05:00

As the trade deadline approaches, Rangers fans begin to wonder about what Glen Sather will do. Will he pick up a big player? Will he dump Malik or Mara? The biggest question mark is Jaromir Jagr. He doesn't seem to have much in the tank or much durability in the rear fender. He has scored only 16 goals and 38 assists in 63 games and does not seem prone to break out of his slump any time soon. Every player gets worn down with time and this seems to be Jagr's time. It would make sense to dump him now for something as opposed to losing him for nothing to free agency.

On the other hand, the Rangers are playing very well having jumped into a tie for 6th place in the Eastern Conference and sitting only 7 point behind the division leading Devils. They have gone 9-3-2 since January 22 and have seemed to put offense, defense and goaltending together. More importantly, they have played a solid, full game on every night with the only exception being the Montreal Massacre. Jagr's line, if not he himself, has been producing well. Dubinsky has thrived on a line with Avery and Jagr. A shakeup at this stage of the game, especially on the top line, may be more destructive than beneficial.

That, along with other internal and external deadline trades, is what Glen Sather must decide on Tuesday and that will decide whether Jaromir Jagr will be wearing the blue sweater in Carolina on Thursday.

You may want a trade and you may not, but either way, don not forget what Jaromir Jagr means to this New York Rangers organization. 54 goals, 69 assists and 123 points. It is hard to remeber the days when Jagr's production was so high but it was only two years ago that Jagr was voted MVP by the players. His monstrous year carried a young and relatively untalented team to their first postseason since 1997. His stats were worthy of may awards and he seemed a shoo in for the Hart, Rocket Richard and Art Ross trophies until all three awards were heisted by the dynamic duo of Joe Thornton and Jonathan Cheechoo on the last day of the season. He broke Adam Graves' single season goal record and John Rattelle's point record. Most importantly, he carried this team to the playoffs on his back and ended a painful drought. Everybody was calling for him to be made captain. And he was.

Jagr didn't stop there. He posted 30 goals and 66 assists in the next season and with the help of new Ranger Brendan Shanahan led a fearsome offense to Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. He led this team as the captain past Atlanta and 7.7 seconds away from a 3-2 lead on the #1 Sabres. The first playoff berth, win and series win since 1997 had been captured thanks to Jaromir. He was our captain just one year ago. Now he has become our cancer as the stubborn Rangers fans (myself included) love to toss away useless old ones.

Lets face it. Without Jaromir Jagr, the Rangers do not make the playoffs in 2006. They almost certainly do not make it in 2007 either. Without Jagr, Adam Graves would still hold the single season goals record and Rattelle would hold the single season points record. Glen Sather would trade away youth to improve the team now and we might not have Staal, Tyutin, Girardi, Dubinsky, Callahan, Prucha and Dawes to name a few. The Rangers would not be talented now and prepared for the future. Jaromir Jagr may need to be traded, but don't forget how much Jagr did for this team, regardless of his bad habits and attitude. Jaromir Jagr saved the Rangers. Be grateful for that and cheer for him in this tough stretch. He may not be able to lead us to a Stanley Cup but he build the foundations for this team to do so. Wherever he ends up, I wish him luck.

Jaromir Jagr is not my scapegoat. He is my hero.

The List: Buyers and Sellers

2008-02-17T22:20:00.003-05:00

As the Trade Deadline approaches, GM’s around the NHL are gearing up for one of the most exciting days of the NHL schedule. It is the day where teams must decide their fate and either give the fans hope or preserve it for the years ahead.

While teams decide their fate, so will GM’s. It’s an emotional, nerve racking affair for them; a last chance at redeeming their mistakes in the off-season. The pressure that resides in this event is what often pushes GM’s to make a pitch for a rent-a-player, which can all-too-often damage the future. Just ask the Atlanta Thrashers who dealt considerable youth for Keith Tchakuk, or the Nashville Predators who dealt a core of youngsters to the Flyers for often injured Peter Forsberg. Where are they now? Well, nowhere near the team they got traded to.

Still, teams are willing to take that chance, and give a volt of energy to fan bases that crave it come April. Perhaps it is what makes the day so special, the consequences and rewards can be dire or fulfilling. Suspense is a word best suited for February 26^th.

With many questions swirling around numerous players, I’ve put together a list of teams that I think will be buyers and sellers.

Buyers:

Detroit Red Wings – 46.6M cap total: The cherry of the NHL, a team that instantly defines the word “powerhouse”. While they are solid in all positions of the game, there’s no such thing as enough firepower or defense. You can bet that the Wings will be in search of some assistance for the playoffs. With a recent 6-game slide (and counting), GM Ken Holland will surely flex his options a little more.

Anaheim Ducks – 51.4M cap total: While the Ducks have recently re-signed Teemu Selanne and Scott Neidermeyer, they are rumored to be looking for more goal scoring up front. The defending Cup champions are slowly forming to a similar core of last season, and are once again amongst one of the Cup favorites.

Dallas Stars – 48.5M cap total: With a strong defense under medical attention, the Stars could find themselves looking for some help on the blue line or even some more firepower upfront. As it stands, they have the best shot at catching the Wings for 1^st in the Western Conference.

San Jose Sharks – 40.6M cap total: The Sharks are among the elite teams in the NHL, while their defense and goaltending is solid, some extra offense would lend a big impact. With lots of cap space at their disposal, the Sharks may end up making a blockbuster deal to make them serious Cup contenders.

N.Y. Rangers – 51.0M cap total: When the dust settled, the Rangers were expected to be among the best teams in the Eastern Conference after key UFA signings in the off-season. They now sit at 8^thplace in the East. Some improvements will be in full force come Feb.26^th, and I expect them to be one of the liveliest teams personally.

Pittsburgh Penguins – 43.4M cap total: With the injury of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin has erupted into the team leader, making the Pens a team to fear. Adding some offense and defense would help the clubs chances of taking the next step to the Stanley Cup. Of course, a returning Crosby will help their case as well.

New Jersey Devils – 47.1 M cap total: While the Devils host a competitive club, they still lack serious firepower (156 GF – 3^rd worst in the conference). Lou Lamoriello will have to work his magic if he wants his team to go deep into the playoffs.

Ottawa Senators – 47.2M cap total: With the recent acquisitions of Cory Stillman and Mike Commodore, the Sens have gotten their secondary scoring they lacked and have bulked up defensively in the process. However, they still lack solid and consistent goaltending. If Ottawa can snag a veteran goaltender for the playoffs, they will be a major force to be reckoned with.

Montreal Canadiens – 48M cap total: An underdog team that was written off the top16 before the season even started. They stand tied for 1^st in the Eastern Conference for points (tied with the Sens) and have seen some serious offense upfront, but only from one line consistently. Bob Gainey will be looking for more balanced scoring; a big, powerful forward would be ideal if you ask me. But with Gainey, you never know, the Habs may very well stay put.

Sellers:

Toronto Maple Leafs – 49.3M cap total: Hard to not put them first on the list, they are amongst the basement dwellers of the NHL. Much of their fire sale depends on the Big Swede and if he is willing to waive his no-trade clause. If he does, expect a much younger and promising core ending the 07/08 NHL season.

N.Y. Islanders – 43.4M cap total: While the beginning of the season started well, they have been descending a downward spiral into the abyss since then. It would be in the Isles best interest to unload some veteran talent and start over next season.

Florida Panthers – 46.1M cap total: The Panthers are rumored to be dealing Olli Jokinen – a trade that would undoubtedly debut a rebuilding phase for Florida.

Los Angeles Kings – 46.6M cap total: The Kings have been in the NHL basement all season long, with a defense core full of pending free agents; they will sell for picks and prospects and aim for youngster Steven Stamkos in the draft.

Edmonton Oilers – 49.6M cap total: After losing Shawn Horcoff to an injury, the Oilers have little to no hope of attaining the playoffs; it would be in their best interest to unload their veterans and attain some young talent on a season lost.

Tampa Bay Lightning – 43.8M cap total: The Lightning host one of the best trio’s in the NHL in Brad Richards, Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St.Louis. However, their lack of defense and inconsistency between the pipes has landed them in the basement. Unloading one, or even two, of the big three would be a great start at rebuilding for the future. GM Jay Feaster will have some NTC’s to work around though.

NBA Slam Dunk Competition vs NHL shootout skills

2008-02-17T08:32:00.002-05:00

After watching the NHL shootout competition at the NHL all-star game and the NBA slam dunk competition that the NHL are HUGE WANNABES. Ill show you the difference although creativity was big in the NHL watch the NBA game!

"The Wannabes"

"THE REAL THING"

The NHL was ok there were some lots of missed opportunities and I feel they have to revamp it.

The NBA had lots of fun and excitement for the fans with props being the cherry on top.

MY CLEAR CUT WINNER:The NBA and Dwight Howard

Ovie's Best Friend

New Chatroom

2008-02-16T14:42:00.003-05:00

I decided after this morning's chat to go find another chat page. Introducing the new and improved EVERYTHING HOCKEY CHAT PAGE!!! Heres the link:

http://chatshack.net/habscaps9

"THE CHATROOM"

2008-02-16T13:10:00.002-05:00

Hey hockey lovers and site viewers today marked our first ever Chat room talk. I was disappointed by the amount of people who showed with like 10 people thats it. I will be trying to do this every Saturday morning and maybe the afternoons sometimes. I will post here for when there will be a Chat room talk. I would also like the fans to vote on what we should call the Chat. Anyway our first day was okay with some good people coming in to chat.I would like to thank Pengal and FlyersX for there positive remarks. I may have one tonight after all the games or during the games being played. I'll let you know as soon as I know what I'm gonna be doing.

Until then its,
Ovie's Best Friend signing out.

Cutting Your Losses : Marian Hossa and Brian Campbell

2008-02-16T12:32:00.003-05:00

So Marian Hossa has decided to openly announce that his chances of re-signing with the Atlanta Thrashers are "slim". I'm here to tell you that I've had enough. If I'm a general manager and my player openly says something like this, c'est au revoir mon ami!

GM's and fans alike don't need this kind of attention around their team. The Thrashers are in the heat of battle for 8th place in the Eastern Conference. And now their best player tells them he is likely to move on. What kind of reaction does this attract from the locker room? He's abandoning his team and what's worse; he's comfortable in announcing it to the media. So what does Don Waddell do?

Well, you start by trading Hossa immediately. The Thrashers have to look for help elsewhere, and trading Hossa as soon as possible will only strengthen their playoff hopes. Get rid of the attention, get their motive back on track, and most importantly, get rid of the player. If Waddell waits until the Trade Deadline, other teams will know that he is even keener on moving him and the Thrashers will more than likely get fleeced.

In the Thrashers case, I am not suggesting unloading him for picks and prospects, because quite frankly, theyâre not the Leafs. I am suggesting swapping him with others players that will help the club attain the playoffs. Considering Hossaâs contract, why not aim big for players like Martin St-Louis, Brad Richards, Mats Sundin and Olli Jokinen, just to name a few.

On the other hand, the Thrashers can attain a multitude of players by swapping Hossa for a package deal. This kind of thing can smooth out more holes on an inconsistent Thrashers club and place more responsibility on the young and super talented Ilya Kovalchuk.

With that said, the Thrashers -- if they believe it is best for their club -- can call the season quits, trade Hossa and attain a hefty package of draft picks and prospects. This would all but obliterate their playoff hopes but assure them an even brighter future.

However, I don't believe that would be fair to the fans that held their Thrashers allegiance with pride even after the club missed the playoffs for 10-straight years. They deserve better. The city hosts a club that can be competitive and with a little tweaking and quick decision making, they could turn this ship around.

Waddell, the ball is in your court.

A similar situation resides in Buffalo Sabres defenseman, Brian Campbell. The young and offensively gifted Campbell is uncertain of his future with the Sabres, his contract negotiations have erupted from one extreme to the next. And now reports are suggesting he is done negotiating until the end of the season.

Darcy Regier has a huge decision on his hands. If you wait until this season passes by -- which could very well foresee the Sabres out of playoff contention -- Campbell could end up walking for nothing. Like Daniel Briere and Chris Drury before him, he would be another star departed from the passionate city of Buffalo.

If I am Regier, I give Campbell one more contract offer, if he declines, then I trade him at the deadline for some much needed assets. Campbell is a vital piece to the Sabres defense, but the asking price would be quite surprising. But if the Sabres do not want to risk missing the playoffs, then swap him. Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Dan Boyle comes to mind. Aim high, because you never know.

Sure, it's risky business considering all that has happened to the Sabres this past year. But it is a painful decision which needs to be done. It is now time to put their foot down and establish a foundation for players to come.

The Dreaded NHL ''No-Trade Clause''

2008-02-15T12:05:00.006-05:00

In the "Salary Cap" world of today's NHL, all teams must configure their rosters to fit within the Cap currently set at $52M USD. And this system encourages a bargaining chip - the no trade clause.

While general managers employ this for different reasons, it ends up having the same effect. Some will use it to pursue players in the free agent frenzy to assure them of stability with their club, and with the same reasoning it is also used for RFA's.

But I ask you this: Is this something important for the NHL?
Personally I wouldn't mind seeing it removed from the league entirely, but some restructuring would also be appreciated.

Look at JFJ, for example. It can be argued that he lost his job because he abused the NTC's to assure the players stability. Ferguson put himself into a corner by giving a no-trade clause to Bryan McCabe, Tomas Kaberle, Darcy Tucker and Mats Sundin. And I ask you this: If JFJ had not given those players a no-trade clause, would he have his job today? It is something to ponder.

With the freedom to trade these players at will, JFJ could have easily moved some of them right when things went awry. In fact, JFJ told TSN last night that he had growing interest for McCabe, Kaberle, Sundin and Tucker from GM's around the league, funny how that works out.

Another example is the Tampa Bay Lightning. GM Jay Feaster has included no-trade clauses in the contracts of Brad Richards and Martin St-Louis. The Lightning are near the bottom of the NHL this season with three of the best forwards in the league, yet Feaster can do little to nothing to cure his club's woes because St-Louis and Richards need to give permission to be dealt.

But here's another question: Should NHL players have this kind of power? Sure, some will argue every player should have the right to stability, but I disagree with this. When you're playing professional sports, you have to be prepared with the possibility of changing cities. The whole basis off their career is to play hard and impress to stay with their team.

With the NTC, player movement is also on the decline. Don't get me wrong, as always there will be a load of trades at the deadline, but this all goes back to the Ferguson scenario. If teams like Toronto were able to unload their players at the deadline without wondering about the possibility of those players waiving their NTC's, we'd see a considerable difference of liveliness come Feb.26th.

So here are some suggestions to mitigate the effects of this flaw (IMO):

- - Teams should be limited in the number of players to which they can grant no-trade clauses. This would force teams into only giving NTC's to their star players, thus making it much more interesting come Feb.26th.

- - Assign a cap value to a NTC - charging the no-trade clause against the cap would ultimately cost the teams more money, making them think twice before unloading them on half the team. (Thanks Scoop)

If you don't like that, there's always my suggestion - eliminate it. Doing this ensures a no-safety zone for all players and, come Feb.26th, a frenzy of trades would occur. Do the players really need that stability? This is something they surely considered when they chose this career path, so the lack of it won't come as a huge surprise to them.

Richard Zednik Cut by Skate

2008-02-11T23:35:00.001-05:00

It was a pretty scary incident last night in Buffalo. The city was once again subject to an on-ice near-death situation due to a skate blade cutting a player's neck. First it was Clint Malarchuk in 1989, and yesterday it was Florida Panthers forward Richard Zednik. For the squeamish, don't watch this video because there is plenty of blood.

According to reports, Zednik lost 5 of his 8 units of blood on the ice. There was so much blood on the ice, that Buffalo was forced to bring out the Zamboni to clean it up. There was question about whether the game would go on, but after about a 15-20 minute delay, the game continued.

Interestingly enough, the same doctor in Buffalo who helped Zednik to the hospital was the same doctor who attended to Kevin Everett, the Buffalo Bills Lineman who was thought to be paralyzed for life after being hit in a game last year.

The doctors who treated him also said that Zednik's carotid artery was cut 3/4 of the way, literally hanging on by a thread. It was as if someone took a knife to his throat. Luckily Zed is just fine, and should be able to resume his life in about 6-8 weeks. Hopefully we'll see him back in action on the ice sooner rather than later.

Here is a picture going around the internet that really shows the seriousness of the cut. Again, if you are squeamish, do not look.

This Old House with Bob Goalie

2008-02-04T15:09:00.001-05:00

It's been far too long since I last posted something however, as the old saying goes, quality, not quantity. In case you couldn't tell by the title, this is another one of those "The Leafs must sell everybody and rebuild" blogs so reader beware and suggestions are welcome.

Most people save the best for last, but not me. Just like an old house being torn down, it starts with the foundation. The first and foremost issue at hand here is Sundin. He just has to go. It sounds very backward and it reads very strange, but Sundin is the most valuable player available this year at the deadline and we should take full advantage of it. In my mind, there is no other player that is as talented as Sundin and is available at the deadline. Even in years past, who can put up a solid case to be better than Sundin at the deadline? Forsberg last year? He was not 100%. Guerin? Tkachuk? No. The only guy that is comparable is Ray Bourque and we all know how that story ended. The fact of the matter is, the events of last year are different from this year. Last year, there were several pretenders who thought they were contenders such as the Islanders and the Thrashers and other teams that just flat out got the wrong players like San Jose. This season, we're talking about Sundin who's on a different level than these guys were last year and we're talking about contending teams like Anaheim and Detroit. Big difference.

Rumors circulating have reported that Anaheim, despite signing Selanne, are still in the hunt for Mats Sundin. Other teams included in these rumors are Calgary, Vancouver, San Jose and sometimes Detroit. Obviously, trading with some teams will be much better than trading with others, like for example, trading with Vancouver would not be as favorable to this team as it would be to trade with Anaheim. Vancouver has defensive prospects, which we have plenty of already, and Anaheim has some offensive weapons we could add that we need. Now, the price of Sundin has been thrown around a lot and honestly, I think it should be more than Forsberg cost last year. Forsberg was a potentially great player but he wasn't 100% and Nashville paid accordingly. This year, we have Sundin who is 100%, as motivated as ever, and as talented as ever. Teams will have to pay to play, and significantly might I add.

I'll start with the best trading partner, Anaheim. I expect Bobby Ryan and EDM 1st round pick. The Ducks have all the defense and goaltending in the world, but they do not have the same Selanne/McDonald connection they had last year. Selanne will take awhile to warm up to the player they NEED him to be and McDonald is just gone. Getzlaf on the top like works, but on the 2nd line, nothing would be more dangerous than having Sundin. If the Ducks have any problem with cap space, I will gladly take any contract we have to. Waivers is not a hard thing for us to use. Burke is a smart GM but so is Fletcher and I think this is in the realm of possibility. Right now, the Ducks are poised for the Cup and will be for a few years so the draft and prospects aren't the most important thing to them considering they have a legitimate chance to win back to back Cups.

The next best trading partner, and also most unlikely, is the Detroit Red Wings. From the Red Wings, I expect to see one of two packages coming our way. The first being, Filppula, Andersson, Emmerton or Grigorenko and a 3rd round pick. Joakim Andersson, Cory Emmerton and Igor Grigorenko are all 2nd/3rd line prospects. Filppula is a great young player that the Red Wings might have to consider giving up instead of a 1st rounder or other more notable prospects like Kindl or Ryno. The other deal consists of, Grigorenko, Andersson, Emmerton, 1st, 2nd in 08 and 3rd in 09.

For the Sharks, I think a fair price would be, Pavelski, Setoguchi, 2nd in 08 and a 3rd in 09. The tricky thing about the Sharks however, is they are also interested in Antropov, Kubina, and even Raycroft. There is also the outside chance of Blake being in their plans, although, long term, I doubt the Sharks would be interested in him. In a deal consisting of Sundin and Antropov, I would add Bernier to the previous deal. If Kubina is added, I expect Ehrhoff in return. Raycroft, if they need him, can go for a 5th or 6th round pick.

Following the Sharks, are the Flames. The Flames have got a huge problem at center. They have two or three guys who are great 2nd liners, but nobody who can really play with Iginla. His latest goal slump is proof of that. Sundin in Calgary would be a natural fit, and personally, value aside, my favorite (probably because Calgary was my prediction for Cup winner this year). In return, I would expect Boyd, Backlund, Giordano (playing in Russia but still owned by the Flames), 1st and 2nd in 09. There are also rumors that the Flames are interested in Antropov or Tucker so for either of them you add Taratukhin to the deal. I think Taratukhin is an Antropov-like player that the Flames could afford to let go for a run in the playoffs and instantly replace him with a more developed Antropov. Tucker has a NTC, but going home, to a competitive situation would do him and his game wonders. Many think Tucker is playing hurt, while I think that is true, I think there is something else killing Tucker and that's the lack of true competitiveness. I think he feeds off of it, and in Calgary, he will get it, plenty of it.

Then finally, comes the Canucks. Of all the teams rumored to be interested in Sundin, the Canucks are the team I am the least interested in. They have nothing the Leafs could possibly need other than improved versions of what the Leafs already have, however, if the Canucks are interested, it is worth going over what we could get in return. I would expect Bourdon, Hansen, Raymond, 1st in 08, and a 3rd in 09 or, alternatively, Kesler, Raymond, Hansen, 2nd in 08 and a 3rd in 09.

Once Sundin is dealt, I would love to re-sign him, however I see some destructive decisions if he does return. For one thing, if Sundin returns, you can rule out any remote possibility of the Leafs even thinking about getting Tavares because the idea when Sundin is on the team, is making the playoffs. I believe the Leafs need two if not three years away from the playoffs to rebuild and restock this team properly. Point to the Flyers of this year, but what people forget is the Leafs don't have a Richards, or Carter, or Gagne to build off of. The Leafs need a few really high 1st round picks before they even think about the playoffs again. The only scenario where I re-sign Sundin, is if he returns and does it Steve Yzerman style where he accepts to play a lesser role on the team and the team itself admits to playing prospects and not signing or trading for established players and/or veterans to make a playoff push.

As you can see, the biggest step is trading Sundin, but, similar to a house, that's just the same as knocking the biggest pieces of the old house down because the big stuff is gone, but there is still some walls left standings, some walls, we need to tear down and replace.

I've already mentioned Antropov a couple of times, and a few others once in the San Jose deal, but one player I have yet to mention is Vesa Toskala. Toskala is a 30 year old goaltender, who is smaller than the average goaltender in the NHL, however, he is beginning to show that he belongs in the top 15 if not 10 in this league in goaltending. On a team that plays a sound game but needs goaltending, Toskala is perfect. In Toronto, a rebuilding phase would see the development of Pogge and the rise of Toskala clash. I would be in favor of holding on to Toskala for one more year, however, if it is possible to get good value for him now, we can't say no and I think I have found a pretty good compromise. That compromise would see the Leafs deal Toskala and Antropov to Nashville, if Antropov isn't already dealt with Sundin, for Mason, FLA 1st, 2nd in 08 and a 3rd in 09. Mason makes 3 million a year, only 1 less than Toskala, so for Nashville, who is trying to make the playoffs and need to make them for fan support and revenue, it makes perfect sense. They also get a two-way winger or center who can score too. The Predators have no problem scoring but they do need a more defensive aware player and Antropov is that guy, at a bargain of 2 million for this and next year.

I would personally deal Sundin, Antropov, Kubina, Tucker, Toskala, and just about any player 30 and over that another team wants, except Kaberle. In return, if we deal with Anaheim, Calgary, San Jose and Nashville with Sundin going to Anaheim, Tucker going to Calgary, Kubina and Raycroft going to San Jose and Toskala and Antropov going to Nashville, a good situation would see us acquire, Bobby Ryan, EDM 1st, Ehrhoff, SJS 5th, Mason, FLA 1st, NSH 2nd, and NSH 3rd in 09 in return. Not a bad way to start rebuilding in my opinion and not that out of this world either, all it takes is an effort to sell the veteran players we have, and move forward with a younger core. Next year, I would hope to see a lineup that included, Kulemin, Tlusty, Vorobiev, Earl, Pogge, and any other player on our list of prospects that can play in the NHL next year to develop their NHL game and to add to the future positively.

In conclusion, I'd like to apologize for the length of this blog, but it was just something I felt I wanted to put all together, in one blog. I know some of my ideas are things that will not happen simply due to the fact the Leafs want to win quickly and doing things slowly and steady in this organization just do not happen, but I ask for critical responses, and just to take everything with a grain of salt as I've tried to keep things as level as possible for all parties involved. Hopefully, this old house is torn down, and we can start to build something more modern as we move forward and continue our quest for the Cup.

North Dakota Magic in Minneapolis

2008-02-01T23:30:00.001-05:00

The North Dakota Fighting Sioux, ranked #3 in the USCHO.com/CSTV Division I Men's Poll, tops the hated #18 ranked Minnesota Golden Gophers in overtime 2-1 with this beautiful goal by freshman Evan Trupp. Words cannot describe this goal.

NHL Salary Cap: A Push from the Elite?

2008-01-28T00:02:00.000-05:00

Conceptions around the NHL world differ on a newly implemented system – the NHL salary cap. It is a system that guarantee’s hope, even if it is an illusion to some, for less-talented teams that befall the lower class of the league.

The point of this experiment was too create a more competitive and intense league. So the NHL decided to bring in a system that rewards a point for an overtime loss – a tactic giving at least half of the NHL something to lean on. A chance to renew their club and perhaps catch up to more talented clubs like the Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs (ahem…what?) to name a few. However, some will argue that this encourages a journey to mediocrity rather than excellence.

The system in place forces team to be more cautious with their spending, thus not being pro-active with their club. When injuries take their toll, teams have a much harder time replacing a woe. This is what often causes teams to wallow in a spiral of wins and losses that come few and far between.

This is something that pushes the truly elite teams out of the NHL. Look at the New England Patriots for example. They are the Mecca team of the NFL, destroying all teams that lay in their path (they will lose the Super Bowl though, this is my wild prediction). They are a team that packages tremendous talent in huge quantity. With the NHL however, we have a more conservative league with less intimidating teams.

But the question pertains, is this a good or bad thing for a league begging for more attention?

For what it’s worth, I think the current system is effective. Here’s why:

While the cap and points system takes away from the more elite teams of the league, it is a process that needs to be fully revved to see its true benefits. Teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets, Phoenix Coyotes and Washington Capitals, to a name a few, or giving a second jump to touch the level of more talented teams quicker. It implements a more competitive league that enthralls 30 teams that all have hope to attain the NHL playoffs. Yes, it inspires some teams to play a 60 minute game to at least attain a point instead of going for all the marbles, but is this really a bad thing?

While the thought of just settling for a point to create an illusion for success can seem like that of a loser league, it is not. While the upper-class teams can’t fully dominate and stand-out as a Mecca among the NHL, the rest of the teams (and fans amongst those teams) are always in a competitive state and all have the sense to win.

Instead of having marquee franchises that emerge from the league, why not have a league that gives everyone a chance at success and ultimately giving them room to grow. Once most of the teams flourish and develop under the new system implemented for them, the league will have a wide-spread display of teams that all have a shot at the Stanley Cup. Instead of having a small batch of favorites, there will be a line-up of teams that will entertain, thrill and excite fans everywhere.

To me, this creates a league with even more excitement because there is no sense of a team that stands out tremendously over another when the top 8 are decided for each Conference. It creates an intense, unpredictable environment that can change based on the spirit of the players, not the money spent on a load of talent.

This is what sports should be about; the determination and willingness to overcome the odds. It is where the poise and determination of the players is truly tested. Don’t get wrong, leagues that boast marquee franchises package all of these important qualities… but not to the same degree. There is no saving grace of expensive, quality -- and quantity -- players to better the odds. They have their limits and they must embrace their true spirit for the respective teams.

In my mind, this is what hockey is about.

The All-Star Game is for the Kids

2008-01-27T17:14:00.000-05:00

I've had just about enough of all the talk about "how we can improve the all-star game." Some "experts" have even suggested that we drop the all-star game completely. People always say how the all-star game "isn't what it used to be." The reason is blatantly obvious. All-Star games are for children, and corporate schmoozing. Unless you fit into one of those categories, the all-star game will not appeal to you.

The idea of getting rid of the all-star game is absolutely nuts in my opinion. Young children are now feeling that passion that you once had about an all-star game, and you want to take that away from them? A little selfish don't you think? The all-star game is all about showcasing the talent of the league for the kids! Who cares if the adults don't think it's "exciting" enough, don't watch it! I can remember getting all excited as a kid in preparation for the all-star game, and remember how in awe I was when Owen Nolan called his shot on Dominik Hasek. That, to me, was the greatest game ever. Now that I look back, I see it meant nothing in the grand scheme of things, but man was it ever great when I was younger. That's what I think people need to remember, the all-star game isn't for you, it's for the kids.

So if you are watching the game today with a young child, watch their face as game is on. I will guarantee to you that they will be as interested as they would be if they were watching game seven of the Stanley Cup playoffs. If you're not with a young child, I suggest you don't watch it. The hockey world doesn't need another person angry at the all-star game, there are enough of those working for TSN.

Buffalo Doom & Gloom,Leaf-like (May Blow Up Team)

2008-01-27T12:29:00.000-05:00

I would like to thank hockeybuzz's Millertime for this article he has written I loved and decided to ask to post it and he was glad to say yes here it is:

All the attention of the Hockey World, it seems, is on the Toronto Maple Leafs, but there's now a disaster just two hours southwest.

Someone told me it's the Curse of the Buffalo Bills that has inflicted this team. The moment they stepped on the ice at Ralph Wilson Stadium, they got a heavy dose of "We find ways to lose" injected into their bodies. Now I don't know if I believe that, but it is certainly interesting if this business initiative by the Sabres organization is blowing up in their faces, as they haven't been the same since.

After this afternoon's pitiful performance in Phoenix, having lost 12 of their last 13, and looking like their AHL affiliate Rochester Americans, who have lost 21 of their last 23 (really, look it up), the Buffalo Sabres are quickly becoming an embarrassment. They seem to continue to lack an identity and just about every player on the team can be accused of coasting or giving up to some extent at least some time or another. If things don't change in a hurry, this team may be blown up completely (more on that in a moment).

I hate to be pessimistic, because I'm an optimistic person, but let's be honest and look at the facts....

-They're setting franchise records again this year (like last year), but now for the wrong reasons - losing their 8th straight road game today
-They're now under .500
-They're SEVEN POINTS back of a playoff position, and a few points away from the NHL basement
-Remember all those games in hand we had for so long? Those are now all gone.
-In a few days, if changes aren't made, the Leafs will jump ahead of them in the Northeast Division standings, and all Hell could break loose in Western New York

A nightmare situation has developed in the Queen City, and the toughest part about it is there's no quick fix or easy answer.

In some odd way, mostly due to the parity in the league this year, the Sabres STILL CAN climb out of this mess and emerge as a playoff team. A trade or two to wake the team up and bring in some new blood could be a good place to start. But things have officially hit an all-time low, certainly within the last three years, and probably within the last decade or two, with the exception of the Bankruptcy Crisis. Going from such a high last year to such a low this year means nothing but massive changes on the horizon.

This team is very, very close from being blown up completely. Fellow Sabres fans, don't get too close to it for that reason. We're inches away from rebuilding, but the good news is in today's NHL, we could pull a Philadelphia Flyers and be competitive again next year, if we do it right.

Jobs are on the line. From personnel, to management, to Mr. Ruff and Mr. Regier.

(And I have to add, this situation ODDLY resembles that of Toronto, as too many orders are coming down from corporate. Mr. Larry Quinn, who has no association with the game of hockey - he's a businessman -, has been handcuffing the team from making good hockey decisions, so much like MLSE, Ferguson and Co. north of the border. He did so during the Drury/Briere saga, and who knows what goes on behind closed doors, but it's likely he's doing it again.)

It's not getting quite as much press, but it's an intense situation in Buffalo, and it may all blow up at any given minute.

Watch out....

Top 5 Goals so far this year(thank god for youtube)

2008-01-25T22:07:00.000-05:00

Here are the Top 5 goals half way through this year:

# 5 ANDREI KOSTITSYN VS CAPITALS

# 4 SAM GAGNER VS BLACKHAWKS

# 3 RICK NASH VS BLUES

# 2 JONATHAN TOEWS VS AVALANCHE

# 1 RICK NASH VS COYOTES

Those are my opinions do you agree if not or if so please leave a comment i'd love to hear what you think.

I should be doing some more TOP 5's such as Hits and Saves.

Ovie's Best Friend

Goal Horns - My Secret Passion?

2008-01-22T22:22:00.000-05:00

Ever since my childhood I’ve been fascinated by the sound of the goal horn going off when a home team scores. Don’t ask me why, or how, because I myself don’t even know. I just believe that now, in the age of cookie cutter arenas, the only thing that sets the rinks apart is the goal horn. I remember when I was younger, living in Chilliwack, British Columbia, I would go watch the local Junior A team, the Chiefs play. With 2,000 people crammed into a tiny barn to watch these kids play, it got pretty rockin’. The rink also had a pretty great horn, and man was it loud. I’m pretty sure that the new WHL team, the Bruins, use the same horn. Is that where my love for the goal horn came from? Who knows.

I’ve been told that the Chicago Blackhawks were the first team to use a goal horn, but I don’t know how true that is. I would like to know who invented the idea of blaring a train horn when the team scored, but as of now, I do not know. There’s just something to each teams’ individual goal horn that sends chills down your back, and most fans know what I’m talking about. Is it the fact that the goal is being rubbed in? I really don’t think it is. I think that it’s because we’ve associated the noise with a goal, we get that feeling.

It’s certainly a unique aspect of the hockey, setting it apart from other sports. Baseball is starting to adopt “Home Run Horns”, and I have no problem with that. I think of it as hockey being a trend setter. If you share the same love for goal horns as I do, please comment and tell us. Also, if you want to hear every team’s goal horn, I recommend you check out VietKamo’s profile on Youtube. He has every current NHL team’s horn, some defunct teams’ horns and many minor league horns.

My top ten favourite horns would have to be, in order, Calgary, Montreal, Buffalo, Boston, Edmonton, Ottawa, New York Rangers, Vancouver, Pittsburgh, and Anaheim.

A New Era...Right?

2008-01-22T21:06:00.000-05:00

To start, I am completely behind the signing of Cliff Fletcher as interim GM. With the interim status he will be given the green light to undergo a series of changes in Leafs land, and all signs seem to point to the big, flashing rebuilding sign, I really don’t have to explain why. However, some fans are skeptical on Fletcher because his track record of depleting youth and attaining veterans. They have every reason to poor some sweat over this matter, this team has ended up with nothing but failure for over 40 years, this is only natural.

With that said, I don’t think Leafs fans will have to worry about this. Cliff stressed to the Toronto media that to make a significant impact in this league, you have lay the ground work. He added that good drafting and developing a young core is essential to any success. It is music to my ears. Thank you very much, Cliff.

But wait! In comes the sinister Richard Peddie with an absolutely golden quote “Cliff Fletcher is the ideal person to lay the groundwork of positive change for the Leafs. As all of our general managers have had, he will have the autonomy and responsibility for all hockey decisions with a focus on establishing a foundation from which the next general manager can build.’’ I say pardon!? You sir, are a liar. If JFJ was given that kind of freedom, why did you shoot down his plan to re-build the Leafs a couple of years ago? Is it because you a) thought the Leafs were Stanley Cup bound? Or was it b) the satisfying sound of “ca-shing!” was too much.

Here’s the thing. Cliff Fletcher doesn’t worry me, Richard Peddie does. If the quote above tells us anything, it’s that Peddie is delusional and/or a liar. If Cliff decides to do a major overhaul of the Leafs come the trade deadline, what will Peddie’s reaction be? If it means missing the playoffs for 3 more seasons will he accept such change? Maybe, like JFJ, he will refuse such suggestions and swipe it under the rug. Like it or not, the Leafs are a very dysfunctional family, and I believe it will take much more than an interim GM to solidify a better future.

JFJ was never really the problem, he was just a deer caught in the headlights with no survival experience… so he got squashed. In a very unprofessional and heartless way, at that. I am not defending John, because his work as GM has been certainly questionable, but with that said, he did have plans to rebuild this club. He got rejected. So we end up with a rookie GM who has been denied to rebuild a team headed to demise in a scrutiny infested city. What did we expect? His limitations were extremely small and he did not have much to work with.

If there is one thing they could not snub him on, it is drafting. JFJ is considered to be skilled when it comes to drafting. While he traded some highly touted prospects (Tukka Rask) you have to remember he had no choice, because playoffs were the number one priority.

Let’s look at some of the acquisitions JFJ has brought to Toronto:

- Joe Nieuwendyk - Eric Lindros
- Andrew Raycroft - Ken Klee
- Pavel Kubina - Brian Leetch
- Hal Gill - Ron Francis
- Vesa Toskala - Ed Belfour
- Jason Blake - Jason Allison

Notables:
- Signed D Bryan McCabe to a 5-year, 5.75 mil contract with a NTC.
- Signed D Tomas Kaberle to a 4- year, 4.20 mil contract with a NTC.
- Signed D Pavel Kubina to a 4-year, 5.00 mil contract.

Not exactly impressive, however, there is a few good signings here. Most notably, the contract extension of Tomas Kaberle is quite simply a steal. With Kaberle you get almost a carbon copy of Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov, but a bit more skilled. Markov makes 5.7 million per season, Kaberle makes 4.2, and there is a considerable difference there.

Also, how different do you think this list would be if JFJ was given full autonomy? It is something to ponder.

Well, either way you slice it - the JFJ era est fini. A new era is coming, we don’t know who will overtake the Leafs throne, but it won’t be Fletcher – who is serving as a patch to the heavily wounded Maple Leafs. Fletcher’s job will be to lay out a blue print of how the Leafs will be outlined. Not exactly an easy job, because getting key youngsters to replace players like Mats Sundin will be very -- and I mean VERY -- important to any kind of Leafs future. Whatever he does, the new GM will have some pieces to work with, hopefully to bring the Leafs to a respectable level.

When you fully analyze the situation the Leafs are in… it’s not that bad. I’m super cereal. A long term rebuilding plan would pretty much ail the wounds of the Leafs. But, there is one glaring problem.

MLSE.

A Much Needed Reminder

2008-01-20T21:55:00.001-05:00

Oh, the wonder of Toronto Maple Leafs’ fans cheering against our once beloved team. It’s a sad but necessary process which strips the energy and magic from cheering on the Buds.

Delusional as it was, most of Leaf Nation just pushed aside the terrible management decisions and held on to our lucky charms while praying to god – who is known as Mats Sundin for the Blue and White amigos.

In the past week, however, I’ve had several friends tell me that they are having an extremely hard time rooting for the Leafs. Many of them have even taken the neon lit exit from the fairy tale land known as Leafs Nation.

It’s news like this that saddens me even more than our less than mediocre Leafs team. As fans, we must endure the highs and lows all while looking ahead. What constitutes a fan is -- and most importantly -- loyalty. When a team is down and begging for mercy, it’s a difficult thing to go through. But if you ask me, it is completely necessary.

Every team will go through the muck, and then back up again for a breath of fresh air, but sometimes, just sometimes, the muck can get thick…real thick. Some of us walk away, ripping the roots of a once cherished team to smithereens. Others, ride through the rough patches waiting for better days. Those “others” are called fans… true fans.

This recent Leafs slump, which is about as big as Cloverfield (awesome movie!), has been 40 years in the making. Instead of learning from mistakes and building from them -- making ourselves stronger -- the Leafs have been chasing their tale in circles, bringing the mass of Leafs fan with them.

With that said, I want to remind all my Blue and White amigos that there are better days ahead, and although it is extremely disheartening to cheer against a team that we put so high up on our pedestals, it is necessary to experience the reward of being a fan.

One day, when the Leafs finally do grasp the holy mug of Stanley, we will look back on the adversity and feel the pride and accomplishment that the Stanley Cup is based on.

One Stead Ahead : A Look From Within

2008-01-19T02:28:00.000-05:00

While discussions run rampant of how the Leafs should dismantle their club, trading Sundin and bottoming out in the Eastern Conference seem to be the most approved tactic from fans of the blue and white. I am completely behind this plan, but many have overlooked some prospects in our own AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies.

The Marlies are enjoying a successful season unlike their big brother. They are 26-9-4, which is good enough for 1st in the North Division, 3rd in the Western Conference and 4th in the league (with games in hand over two of the teams, the Rockford IceHogs, and the Providence Bruins). Much of their success has little to do with the young guns, but rather the veterans who play the AHL game with tremendous poise.

However, there are a few points to consider here. For one, an important aspect of their success has been goaltending, a strong duo between Scott Clemmensen and -- most importantly-- Justin Pogge has shut the door on most nights, and this bodes well for the Leafs future between the pipes.

With a larger core to evaluate through defense and forwards, it is important to identity another aspect of an older Marlies club. While the veteran players are key to the Marlies success; their leadership and poise will rub off on some of the Leafs key prospects. Many of whom may get a shot at the Leafs because of this.

**********

Let's take a look at some of the Marlies core that could perhaps help out a rebuilding Leafs team in the future:

Brent Aubin

Aubin is known to possess a feisty edge to his game, which includes goal scoring ability and clutch performances (He broke the 50-goal plateau in his last season with QMJHL and recorded 105 points in 68 games. He also has 20 game-winning goals in his last two seasons with the Quebec Remparts). However, the diminutive forward has struggled in the AHL, recording 2 goals and 7 points in 35 GP. Like Robbie Earl, we owe it to ourselves to give him another chance next season.

Robbie Earl

Explosive speed, great skating, soft hands, gritty, physical, drives the net â this is Robbie Earl. A player I have found to be overlooked by many. While his size is not intimidating â he stands at 5-11 and weighs in at 185 lbs. â his play suggests otherwise. With some fine tuning and more development in the AHL, Earl will become a complete player capable of filling any role the Leafs give him. He struggled in his first season with the Marlies, recording 12 goals and 30 points in 67 games. This season, however, Earl is coming into his own, recording 11 goals and 30 points in 38 games. This prospect is one to look out for, mark my words.

Darryl Boyce

Boyce, 23, has played 39 games for the Marlies this season as a rookie, recording 8 goals and 24 points. While his offensive production is impressive, his defensive game is just as polished. He was the CIS's rookie of the year in 2005-06 and was named the most valuable player when UNB won the 2007 University Cup, the national championship. He displays raw offensive instincts and will not shy away from the rough stuff, two aspects that are very valuable together.

Phil Oreskovic

Oreskovic, 20, is a rookie for the Marlies. Weighing in at 220 lbs. and standing at 6â3, he is force in the defensive zone. The stay-at-home defenseman is known to throw huge body checks, clear the front of net, work the corners, as well play an enforcer type game. In the year-end OHL Eastern Conference Coaches Poll, the punishing blueliner garnered votes as the best defensive defenseman and the best body checker. As the Leafs continue to struggle in the defensive aspects of the game, he should be a key member to their club in the near future.

John Mitchell

Mitchell has been a part of the Marlies organization for a few years now. He possesses good size down the middle, exceptional face-off abilities, and is overall a solid two-way forward. However, Mitchell has had bouts with consistency, something he needs to work on to adapt to the NHL. If he develops as he should, he will provide the Leafs with a solid 3rd or 4th line player.

Alex Foster

He is another complete player for the Marlies. Foster is a playmaker who has great on-ice vision, he is said to often make something out of nothing. Foster does not shy away from the physical aspects of the game neither, he is a fierce competitor who is filling to take some heat in order to buzz around the net. In 30 games with the Marlies this season, he has recorded 7 goals and 21 points.

Jeremy Williams

Williams has natural offensive abilities, he is a playmaker who knows how to find the back of the net. He is gifted with excellent speed and an attitude to never back down to larger players. Because his defensive game is not polished by any means, Williams has to develop as a top 6 forward in order to survive in the NHL. At 24, his time may be running out, but never say never.

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It is unrealistic to expect that all of these players will pan out as expected, but if a nice handful of them fill their respective roles, the Leafs will be on the right step once they initiate a rebuilding phase.

YoungStars Rosters

2008-01-15T18:38:00.000-05:00

Here are the rosters for the NHL YoungStars game which will now be competed 3-on-3 and will give points to the winning team that will be entered into the skills competition points for there respective conference:

Western Conference			Eastern Conference
Alexander Edler	D	Vancouver	Tobias Enstrom	D	Atlanta
Erik Johnson	D	St. Louis	Kris Letang	D	Pittsburgh
Jack Johnson	D	Los Angeles	Mike Lundin	D	Tampa Bay
Matt Niskanen	D	Dallas	Marc Staal	D	NY Rangers
Sam Gagner	F	Edmonton	Nicklas Backstrom	F	Washington
Patrick Kane	F	Chicago	Brandon Dubinsky	F	NY Rangers
Peter Mueller	F	Phoenix	Tyler Kennedy	F	Pittsburgh
David Perron	F	St. Louis	Milan Lucic	F	Boston

Note you may notice there are no goalies. They will use a goalie from the All-Star Game.

My take: I think that the western YoungStars roster has the advantage in terms of skill with guys like Gagner and Kane but I do think that the Eastern team will probably have the edge in the physical play. In my opinion there were also a couple snubbings in the YoungStars game as well. I think Andrei Kostitsyn of the habs should have made and also goalies that are young should be in on it to like Josh Harding and Carey Price.

New Igloo Sign Sealed and Delivered

2008-01-14T21:26:00.001-05:00

After a six hour meeting in Pittsburgh, Penguins officials were glad to say their plans for a new arena have been approved. More on this in the next few days. You heard it here first.

Egg's Take: Good to hear the Penguins are finally getting an arena. The Devils have seen a somewhat increase in attendance since moving to their new arena, and I'm sure the Penguins will as well. Pittsburgh is a hockey town, that there is no doubt, and with a guy like Crosby on the team, they should be around for a long time. Hopefully this new rink will be home to many great memories, and maybe even a Stanley Cup or two.

NHL Trade Deadline : When Trepidation Attacks

2008-01-14T00:23:00.000-05:00

February 26th will mark the NHL Trade Deadline. The day where all GM's take out their microscope and scan their team searching for the tiny or gaping holes that separate them from either a) the Stanley Cup, or b) the playoffs.

In a time where scrutiny is the word best described, one aspect has always got me wondering...the pressure. The weights that are tied to GM's become significantly heavier and most fans expect a trade to straighten their club for the April showdown.

Anxiety, however, affects the outcome of many of these trades. Let's look at last year's trade deadline for example:

- To San Jose: Bill Guerin
To St. Louis: Ville Nieminen, Jay Barriball, and 1st Round Pick

(Bill Guerin currently plays for the New York Islanders)

- To Buffalo: Dainius Zubrus, Timo Helbling
To Washington: Jiri Novotny, 1st Round Pick

(Danius Zubrus currently plays for the New Jersey Devils)

- To Boston: Dennis Wideman
To St. Louis: Brad Boyes

(Boyes has 25 goals so far this season)

- To Toronto: Yanic Perreault, 5th Round Pick
To Phoenix: Brendan Bell, 2nd Round Pick

(Yanic Perreault currently plays for the Chicago Black Hawks)

-To Vancouver: Bryan Smolinski
To Chicago: 2nd Round Pick

(Brian Smolinski currently plays for the Montreal Canadiens)

- To Islanders: Richard Zednik
To Washington: 2nd Round Pick

(Richard Zednik currently plays for the Florida Panthers)

-To Atlanta: Keith Tkachuk
To St. Louis: Glen Metropolit, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Round Picks

(Keith Tkachuk currently plays for the St.Louis Blues)

-To Nashville: Peter Forsberg
To Philadelphia: Scottie Upshall, Ryan Parent, 1st & 3rd Rounder

(Peter Forsberg is currently not playing in the NHL)

There is a concerning pattern here. For one, there is only one team amongst this list that has not been affected by acquiring a big name player. All others have lost the individual they have traded for. Giving up substantial and potentially solid youth for rental players is a tactic which is caused by anxiety. Teams feel the need to acquire help from star players to flatten out the bumps that are present with their respective clubs.

There is a difference between a need and a want. Quite simply, most of these teams do not need these players. In fact, they want them. I believe the pressure and hype of the Trade Deadline affects the GM's of the NHL. The expectations are high, and if they stand pat, they will get criticized if the team goes awry come April. On the other hand, they also get criticized for unloading youth for a player whose impact ends up being as powerful as a raindrop in the ocean.

This is what separates the competent GM's from the incompetent. We are all human, and everyone makes mistakes through judgment and opinion alike. But how they reconcile those mistakes, and how they've planned and prepared for the consequences is what makes a great GM.

So I ask you; are rental players really worth it? The term "rental" coincides with temporarily. Is giving potentially promising youth worth the price for a player who has no long-term plans for the club? Knowing that a handful of other teams are trying the same tactic -- all for the sake of getting a quicker grasp at the Stanley Cup -- why not let the current club compete in the NHL playoffs, and build from within with the youth intact.

It appears trepidation is a powerful thing in the world of sports

Sundin Shoves Official, Leafs Hit Rock Bottom

2008-01-13T01:13:00.000-05:00

Watching Paul Maurice's post-game interview tonight, a game in which his team gave up a 2-0 lead on San Jose to lose it 3-2, I got a sense of sadness. That was odd for me because, 1. I'm not a Leafs fan and 2. I haven't ever felt that before, watching him speak. I've always got a sense of either frustration, anger, or even the odd time, happiness (the very odd time). Something is definitely up in Toronto in order to give Maurice that feeling. I'm not sure if it's the feeling of a man who is about to lose his job, or just a man so purely dejected that he is saddened by it.

The frustration came to a head at the end of the game when Leafs' captain Mats Sundin shoved a linesman who was in his way. It was by no means a forceful push, more of a "get out of my way", but he still made contact. Abusing an official in any way, shape or form is a big deal. Verbally or physically. The latter obviously being more serious. You can't use the excuse of "Maybe he didn't know it was the ref" because you have to be in control of yourself at all times, and unfortunately Sundin snapped for just a second.

I feel bad for Sundin, I really do, but he should have thought twice before he did what he did. I can't even begin to think about how many kids look up to this guy. As the captain, and leader of this team, it is clear he should not have done it. He let the pressure of the media and front office get to him, and gave them what they wanted. Public frustration. Now his actions will be talked about for days, putting his team in a negative perspective, and possibly causing his coach or GM's job to be lost. Not exactly what the doctor ordered for this struggling Leafs team.

Here's the video, courtesy of Youtube in case you missed it:

All-Star Snubbings

2008-01-12T18:07:00.001-05:00

Here are some names of people who were snubbed from the All-Star Game:

Goalies

Timothy Thomas Jr.
Henrik Lundqvist
Pascal Leclaire

Forwards

Alexei Kovalev
Mike Ribeiro
Evgeni Malkin
Vaclav Prospal
Kristian Huselius
Marc Savard
Daniel Briere

Defense

Mike Green
Michal Rozsival

Edit:sorry I forgot to put Sundin

Soon I'll have my prediction for each skills event either today, tomorrow or Monday

The Newbie (Ovie's Best Friend)

2008-01-11T23:54:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, I'm the new writer on the site. I'll go under the name "Ovie's Best Friend". Of course referring to Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals. Now to me:

I have been born, raised and still live in Montreal. Of course growing up in the great city of Montreal means All Hockey, All the Time. If you grow up in Montreal and you're not a hockey fan you might as well be kicked out.

Anyway, I'll be doing a lot here and hope to bring all of you the most insight that I can on what has basically become my life as a HOCKEY FAN.

Thanks,
Ovie's Best Friend

Rebuilding is the Only Hope for the Toronto Maple Leafs

2008-01-09T14:37:00.000-05:00

In the midst of yet another disappointing season for the blue and white, the question of rebuilding has resurfaced. A topic which has separated the mass of Leafs fans for quite a while – but to a lesser extent this season.
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While the 07-08 regular season offered promise for the Leafs, according to Paul Maurice and John Ferguson Jr. anyway, it has proved to be nothing but a stale statement. The Leafs have showcased an inconsistent, defensively incapable team that lacks the character to fight the adversity that follows them. With acquisitions like Vesa Toskala, Jason Blake and Mark Bell, most of Leaf nation was expecting a stronger club that would contend in the NHL playoffs. The goal of GM John Ferguson was too cut back on the goals against department while implementing a similar offensive team to last season. Well, one of those worked out, and it is the offense. The Leafs can score goals, no one is questioning that. The troubling part of the team is that they can't keep them out of their own net. While the play of Vesa Toskala has been solid, his defense has been abysmal on most nights. In fact, you can probably count on one hand how many times they've defended their goaltender for sixty minutes.
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Initially, I thought this problem would be resolved by simply playing through the rust. But it appears the rust has become a permanent stain. The Leafs core has deflated after heart breaking (or humiliating) losses, and it will prove to be their demise.
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To go along with a weak core, the Leafs host a thin group of talented prospects. The names Justin Pogge, Nikolai Kulemin, Jiri Tlusty and Anton Stralman are the best of the bunch. But even if the four of them turn out as expected, this team is still terribly short of a contending team. Aside from them, names such as Jeremy Williams, Staffan Kronwall and Robbie Earl are the second tier. Hoping for anything more than 3 rd or 4th liners, or bottom pairing defenseman, is optimistic in my opinion. I am not bashing our system just for the sake of pointing out this club's obvious flaws, but rather how mistreated we have been as loyal fans dawning the blue and white. While we stood aside and watched the Leafs trade countless draft picks for veteran aid, it is finally coming around to haunt MLSE. What did we expect? You can't trade your future for numerous veterans and expect everything to fall back in order. The salary cap - along with poor management - has killed the Toronto Maple Leafs.
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In a time long ago, the Leafs were looked upon with respect and dignity. They were a team that preached hard work and a no surrender attitude. Just ask the Detroit Red Wings of 1942. That was year that the Leafs came back to beat the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals after being down, 0-3, in the series. An unforgettable moment in hockey history is best described by Hall of Famer and former Leafs captain, Syl Apps: "If you want me to be pinned down to my [biggest night in hockey but also my] biggest second, I'd say it was the last tick of the clock that sounded the final bell. It's something I shall never forget at all." Doesn't a quote like that send chills down your spine? Greatness and character is what radiates from it. And I hope that one day the Maple Leafs can relive such a comment of that impact.

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This brings me to the point of that history flashback: Mats Sundin. He is considered the face of the Toronto Maple Leafs by many. He is a Hall of Famer caught in the wrong time period to be a Maple Leaf. His determination and heart for the Leafs is noticed and appreciated by all. He is the only member left on the Leafs that resemble the greatness and leadership that Leafs players before him have reflected. And that is why he should be traded this season. Mats Sundin can do nothing to help the hole MLSE has put themselves in. The only thing he can do that will help this team is leave. And it is extremely sad and disheartening that it has come to that. Sundin's departure would ensure a handful of youth to the Leafs system. A trade of that magnitude would bring some life to a depleted farm system. As we all know, Sundin is the Toronto Maple Leafs. Take him out of the picture and the Leafs will crumble… and it would be spectacular. After 40 years of mediocrity, we deserve a team that can contend for the Stanley Cup. The current cycle will assure that we are nothing more than a bubble team hoping for the classic Edmonton Oilers’ prayer. It is unrealistic and foolish to think that this Leafs team can somehow compete for the Stanley Cup once they reach the playoffs in their current state. It's the kind of thinking that will land us another 40 years of mediocrity. The departure of Sundin can mark the beginning of the rebuilding phase. Once he is gone, the youth will be depended on to move forward, and they will fail. This is a good thing. We will become basement dwellers and feed off of high draft picks for a few years. This is a tactic that can bring nothing but better fortune for the storied franchise. Players the Leafs can look into moving can be Pavel Kubina, Jason Blake, Darcy Tucker, Bryan McCabe or even Nikolai Antropov. While Antropov has been impressive for the Leafs this season, as well as injury free, the Leafs could get a nice return while his stock is high – and not on the injured reserve. Trading Antropov might also be logical if trading the others proves to be too difficult.
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With the current club, here is a breakdown of the players we should be developing through a youth movement:

Alexander Steen
A 1st round pick from the Leafs, he began his career with a solid rookie campaign (45 points, 19 goals) and shows signs of becoming a solid top 6 winger in the future. In his second NHL season, he encountered a sophomore slump and fell short to the expectations placed upon him. However, in the second half of the 06-07 season, he accumulated 27 points. This season, Steen has shown terrific strides in working on consistency. His hustle and work ethic are noticed almost every night. He has also learned to shoot the puck more compared to past years. However, because his role with the team is a 3 rd liner -- on account of other players ahead of him on the depth chart -- he is held back from the top 6 position he needs to produce points and reach his potential.

Kyle Wellwood

The crafty and smart playmaker erupted for the Leafs in the 05-06 season. He was expected to stay with the Marlies, but his pre-season was too impressive to pass up. He ended his rookie campaign with 45 points. In his sophomore season -- a season where he has always had success in each level of play throughout his career – injuries held him back, but Wellwood was on a 70-point pace with 42 points in 46 games. This season, Wellwood laced up the skates later than expected when a groin injury set him back. When he returned, he was not the player of old, and he has struggled considerably. If the injury continues to affect him throughout his career -- or just this season -- is still a question about which many are wondering. We will find out soon enough.

Carlo Colaiacovo
I hesitated to put him on this list. He has potential to be a top 2 defender with upside in both ends of the rink, but his injury riddled career, which continues once again this season, is troublesome for his future in the NHL. If he can shake the injury bug, he will be a wonderful addition to the Leafs future D core. Time will tell.

Matt Stajan

The young center-man has gotten progressively better throughout his young NHL career and is developing a shut-down role – something the Leafs have lacked – who can chip in offensively. He is nothing more than a 3 rd liner, but like the Ducks proved in the playoffs, 3rd and 4th liners are an integral part to any successful team.

Anton Stralman

The young Swede seems to be Tomas Kaberle version 2.0. His stick handling abilities are exceptional and his on-ice awareness allows him to create plays quite efficiently. Like Kaberle, his outlet passes from our zone looks like something he will thrive on - a skill underrated by many. While he is not a physical defenseman by any means, he makes up for it with strong positioning and using his stick to break up plays. He is a definite keeper.

Jiri Tlusty

The Czech native is a sniper who knows how to use his body to his advantage. In his first game in the NHL, he recorded 2 goals for Maple Leafs. At 19, Tlusty's potential is a top line winger for the Maple Leafs, making room for someone of his calibur is extremly important. However, the Leafs can't give him 3rd line minutes if they want him to develop. His skills are best suited for top 6 ice-time.

Nikolai Kulemin
The Russian native is said to possess a strong work ethic, good hockey sense, the ability to play in traffic, dig in the boards, and finally drive towards the net. I have never seen him play, on account of playing for the Magnitogorsk Metallurg in Russia, but his stats are certainly impressive. In 06-07, he accumulated 27 goals and 39 points in 54 games. This season, he has an impressive 17 goals and 25 points in 41 games so far. The kid looks to be a good power forward for the Leafs in the very near future.
Justin Pogge
The young goaltender has high expectations to perform. In his rookie season with the Toronto Marlies, he came out of the gate struggling. However, the second half of the season was much friendlier to Pogge, who looked like the goalie many are hoping for. This season, Pogge has been rock solid for the Marlies. He has posted an impressive .911 SV%, a 2.18 GAA, 2 SO and a 13-2-4 record to go along with that. He will be working harder than ever to crack the line-up next season as a back-up to Vesa Toskala… a scenario which may happen.

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Now add in a handful of quality draft picks and prospects garnered through trades and bottoming the Eastern Conference suddenly the Leafs have a much brighter future ahead of them.

Justin Pogge Evolving : Future Starts Soon?

2008-01-06T23:23:00.000-05:00

Toronto's 3rd round pick in 2004 is coming into his own. Justin Pogge started the season with the Toronto Marlies splitting goaltending duties with former New Jersey Devil, Scott Clemmensen. Both played fairly well and one did not look superior over another. But a Vesa Toskala injury to the Toronto Maple Leafs might just be what Justin Pogge needed. With Clemmensen getting the call to the NHL, Pogge was left with the starting duties for the Marlies. So far, he has 2 shutouts in as many as 5 games and his season statistics have risen to an impressive .911 SV%, a 2.18 GAA and a 13-2-4 record to go along with his 2 shutouts.

Justin Pogge, standing at 6'3 and weighing in at 205 pounds, is a goaltender who brings a quick glove, good speed and good puck handling specifically to the table. He also knows how to use his big frame to better challenge the shooters, an aspect very important to compete in the goaltenders league that is the NHL. Some of his flaws that I've noticed when he first started with the Marlies continue to be apart of his game, but already is getting progressively better this season. Those flaws include rebound control and consistency. Two aspects that need fine tuning in order to succeed in the NHL. However, his work ethic suggests that he's got the heart to overcome it and reach the level all young goaltenders dream of. According to Pogge, he is ready to experience what the NHL is like "Definitely, I would like to get the chance to see what (the NHL) is like," said a determined Justin Pogge. ''Even if I didn't play, it would be a chance to experience things at that level. That's what I worked all summer for. If I don't get the opportunity, it would be disappointing. I'd just have to work hard all summer again to reach that goal."

Pogge has already had success in the early going of his career. In 2006, he won ''CHL Goaltender of the Year'', ''Del Wilson Trophy - Top goaltender in the WHL'', ''Four Broncos Memorial Trophy - Player of the year in WHL'', '' World Junior Hockey Championship Team Canada MVP'' and a gold medal to go along with it. When the Leafs had both Tukka Rask and Justin Pogge, John Ferguson Jr. opted to keep Pogge and trade Rask for a quick fix in net, which has now proved to be a grave mistake. However, the Tukka Rask trade has given Pogge full confidence to be the future starter of the Leafs, and with Toskala holding the reins right now, there is no rush for the young goaltender. He can hone his skills and develop in the AHL as he should. But will we see Pogge as early as next season perhaps?

Throughout the pre-season, Justin Pogge was the most impressive goaltender for the Leafs, amongst a struggling group mind you, and this may speak volumes of what may happen in the very near future. I think it's possible that we may see Pogge between the pipes as early as next season. If Andrew Raycroft and Scott Clemmensen continue to display less than average performances for the Leafs this season, we may see some scenarios unfold. One would be to place Raycroft on waivers, thus dropping his 2M salary. I think it is the most logical scenario, but only if happens in the off-season. Dropping Raycroft now would leave us with Scott Clemmensen taking over as the back-up, a position he could not hold with the Devils, never mind the Leafs. So if Pogge continues to play great hockey for the Marlies, attempting to drop Raycroft would open a spot for Pogge as the back-up behind Toskala. At 22, this type of move would only raise his confidence and he could learn a thing or two from goaltender Vesa Toskala in the process. Another scenario would be to trade Raycroft, but they might find that to be quite difficult considering his recent struggles ever since he won the Calder Trophy.

One thing is for certain, Justin Pogge is among a thin group of talented Leafs prospects that have very high expectations to perform, and for obvious reasons.

Tough Times in Minors for NHL Castoffs Cloutier and Denis

2008-01-06T17:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes a trip to the minors to "get your game back" can be a demoralizing experience, especially if you struggle. When you play such a critical position as goaltender, where confidence means everything, it may ruin your career. Two goalies going through that right now are the Los Angeles Kings' Dan Cloutier, and the Tampa Bay Lightning's Marc Denis. It's tough to watch, a little like a car accident. Of course you never want to see something like this happen, but you're watching through your hands. We all know that when they are on their game, Dan Cloutier and Marc Denis can be quality goaltenders, but unfortunately, right now they are not. As a result, they are struggling badly at the AHL level.

Cloutier was sent down to the Manchester Monarchs at the start of the season, and has been splitting time with Erik Ersberg. He has appeared in 12 games posting a dismal 3-8 record, but it gets worse. Cloutier has a 3.50 goals against average and a .875 save percentage. That is absolutely awful if you're not sure what those stats mean. I truly hope he can find out what exactly the problem is, because you never like to see a goaltender struggle like this. Hopefully he can work with his coaches, pinpoint his issues, and make the slow, painful climb back to the NHL. Situations like these has put many a goaltender on the retired list, and I believe Cloutier has plenty left in the tank.

Denis was sent down recently, after clearing waivers. He had only 1 win in 10 games (coincidentally enough, the 1 win came against the Leafs) and his play was slipping. Tampa Bay is not a bad defensive team, and we all know about their goaltending woes. They decided that something needed to be done, and sent Denis down which was the correct move. When they acquired him from Columbus, they had thoughts of him taking over the #1 role which wasn't too far-fetched. He was a very solid goaltender. Nothing flashy, but he could get the job done. I'm not sure what went wrong and when, but something changed. That's why he finds himself where he is. Playing below-average hockey for the Norfolk Admirals. Denis has a 1-1-1 record in 3 games with Norfolk. Okay, not bad right? Well look at his save percentage and goals against average, .872 and 3.24. That's not the Marc Denis we knew in Columbus, and with the World Junior squad in 1996 and 1997.

That's the story of two goalies who we all hope can get their game back, but right now the outlook isn't so good. I really can't say what I expect to happen. It's all up to the players whether they make it back or not, but one thing is for sure, it's not an easy task. It may be harder for them to make it back to the NHL then it was to make to the NHL the first time.

Toskala is Key and Keeping Raycroft is Essential

2008-01-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

In the Leafs recent struggles, a gaping hole, which never really left, has been re-exposed. Guess what it is? *Drum roll* Ladies and gentleman, I present to you.... The Leafs incapable and inconsistent defense! However, right up until Vesa Toskala's groin tweak, the Leafs defense was aided tremendously and Toskala was playing all-star quality to do it. Andrew Raycroft and Scott Clemmensen have thus taking over the reins... quite ineffectively I might add. Raycroft got the first go around... and failed. It ended with a 6-1 drubbing to the Rangers, which wasn't his fault but he didn't help either. So in come Scott Clemmensen, a goaltender some Leafs fans think should replace Raycroft as back-up because his salary is cheaper on our cap... I'll get back to that in a bit. Clemmensen fared okay in his first game, which earned him a second consecutive start which saw him face the Pittsburgh Penguins. He started good, but quickly faded. The game ended 6-2, and Clemmenson was awful.

Replacing Andrew Raycroft with Scott Clemmensen would be a mistake. While the Raycroft experiment has failed in Toronto, he is still a decent back-up and he's certainly better than his recent play suggests. Scott Clemmensen on the other hand... is not good enough to even be a career back-up. At age 30, he started this season playing in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies. Last season, he took on a minimal amount of games with the New Jersey Devils and put up a 3.14 GAA and a .889 SV% on a defensively stacked team. I'm sorry... but something is obviously wrong there. He just can't cut it, and with Vesa Toskala's history of groin injuries, we need a capable back-up to fill in for his absence, preferably a short one. Raycroft is that guy. We missed the playoffs by one point last season with him in net for 72 games... so its not an overly risky move. To sum it up, Andrew Raycroft is better than Scott Clemmensen, period.

My personal opinion is that we will fail to reach the playoffs. Our only hope is Vesa Toskala and it's teetering on his health. With him, we at least contend for the 8th spot... without him....well...you get the current results.

Until next time. Up, up and awwaayy!

Calling All Avery Haters

2007-12-30T16:12:00.000-05:00

I am calling you all out. All of you who came out strong at Sean Avery after the Blake incident in Toronto. You said that Avery was an immature and wothless player and that he "deserves everything he gets." You may have said that he did something bad IF he did it. You may have said that he did do it. You may have wanted him dead or severely injured. But you all came out and went after him in some way. I did too.

It was revealed that he never said those comments to Blake. That much is known. But did anybody come out like a man and say that Avery is innocent and that the writer who made up the story did a terrible thing. Did anybody say one measly word about his innocence.

One person did. Everybody else crawled into their little holes and "forgot" that anything happened. I wrote a blog about his innocence. No comments. No surprise.

Well, it seems to be too late to pay attention to that, but try to pay attention to this.

Last season, the Rangers were 17-6-6 with Sean Avery and 23-24-4 without him.

This season, they are 11-5-1 with him and 8-10-3 without him.

The streak that led to the playoff berth last season began when Avery came over from the Kings. The streak that began 10 games into this season, began when Avery returned from an injury suffered during the second game of the year. It ended when he left the ice against Dallas with a wrist injury. And when the Rangers are playing the worst hockey of the year, he returns. They play strong in a losing effort vs Ottawa and come back with two convincing wins over Carolina and Toronto.

I am convinced. You can usually predict the outcome of a Rangers game after watching a preiod or so. Disregard the score. Just see who is winning those battles along the boards, who is first to the loose pucks and who is winning the physical battles. Do that and you will pick the winner 90% of the time. And the fact of the matter is that the Rangers, as a group, hustle a lot more when Avery is on the bench. They play a lot more physical when he is in the game. He brings more than a mouth. He brings motivation for a team who's coach can't motivate the team and who's captain has trouble motivating himself. He has only 2 goals and 8 assists in 17 games this season. But he assists in much more than scoring.

I am a beliver. Jump on the Avery bandwagon.

Message to Leafs Fans

2007-12-29T22:06:00.000-05:00

Your team is not as bad as you think. That being said, they were downright awful tonight versus the Rangers. After a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of the Rangers you'd think the finger would be pointed at the goaltending. No, I'm not talking about some drunken Leafs fans gesturing at Raycroft, I'm talking about the blame game. After games like these, the coaching staff has to relax, and analyze what exactly did they do differently in this game that led to such a terrible result. The defensive woes are clear, but I'm sure it has more to do with strategy and match ups than the goaltending. Were the Leafs prepared to deal with the Rangers powerplay? Were they prepared to contain Jagr? Sure it's easy for us to say they weren't because we've seen the result, but believe it or not, the Leafs have to actually take something out of this game. Maybe it's more video analysis, or just a better job at matching up. The possibilities are endless, and it's up to the coaching staff to pinpoint exactly what went wrong, and what they can do to prevent future collapses of this sort. The great thing is that these are all things that can be corrected. The old saying that teams are never as good as you think they are when they win big, and never as bad as you think they are when they lose big rings true. Raycroft was not at fault tonight. Even if he was on his "A" game the score would still have ended up 3 or 4 to 1. Toskala would have helped, but that is irrelevant because it is not their issue.

World Juniors and Spengler Cup Begin, Bernier and Cujo Sharp

2007-12-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

It's that time of the year again Canadians, the World Juniors and the Spengler Cup are both now under way. Both tournaments got off on a good foot for the Canadian teams, the juniors winning 3-0 over the Czechs, and the semi-pros winning 4-3 in a shootout over Pardubice. The win wasn't the only similarity between the two teams. Jonathan Bernier was flat out sensational in his first ever World Junior Championship game, which oddly enough comes after his first ever NHL game. Bernier, as most of you know, started the LA Kings first game of the year in London, England. He made 44 saves for the shutout, in a game in which Canada was actually outshot by the Czechs. On the Spengler side of things, Curtis Joseph was strong in his first game in six months, especially in the shootout. He looked a little shaky early on, but the Cujo of old was seen in various points throughout the game.

Bernier was fantastic, as usual, and he looks so much more in control than he did when he was up with the Kings. It showed me that calling him up may have been a bit premature by the Kings, but he will be there sooner rather than later. I would catch myself just watching Bernier, in awe of his strength and agility. TSN kept saying that the starter's role was up for grabs between him and Steve Mason, but after tonight I highly doubt that. Nothing against Mason, it's just that you can't deny how well Bernier played today. The coaching staff needs to give him the ball so he can run with it, much like they did with Justin Pogge and Carey Price.

Joseph looked strong in his debut, sporting a new butterfly style, rather than his usual Hasek-like style. It may take him a few more games to get back into the swing of things, but I fully expect him to be back to his usual self by the time the tournament ends. That will put him in the perfect situation, ready to be signed by an NHL team looking for an upgrade in net for the stretch run (Pittsburgh, what are you waiting for!!?!?!?!?) All in all, it will be an interesting few weeks up ahead, and I look forward to sitting back, relaxing, and watching some great international hockey!

The Great Stick Debate

2007-12-22T19:04:00.000-05:00

We’ve seen it time and time again. A team is on the powerplay, down by one late in the third
period. There’s a man wide open at the side of the net, the pass comes and... his stick shatters into a million pieces. Talk about anti-climactic. People may ask the question, “why in the world will players keep using these composite sticks if they’re prone to breaking so easily?” but the reality is that the pros of using these sticks far outweigh the cons. Players can now take shots at a speed and quickness never before seen, a necessary attribute with today’s butterfly goaltenders. The flex of the sticks, which allows for more whip action, and the lightness cannot be matched by the classic wooden sticks. Then comes the counter-point “but players like Shanahan and Stastny still use wooden sticks, and it seems to be working out fine for them”, to which I say this: they are only using wooden sticks because of preference. They have stated that they would like to switch to composite, but they just can’t get used to the feel of them. Since they are still having success with the wooden sticks, they see no reason to change. There is still an undeniable advantage to using composite sticks. The reality is, the sticks don’t break all that often. It just seems like they do because it stands out to the fan watching the game on tv, and I don’t have a specific stat, but I estimate that there is one stick broken for every game. That really isn’t a lot, because despite popular belief, wooden sticks weren’t indestructible either.

It’s even got to the point that goalies are now using fully composite sticks, mainly for the weight factor. I use one myself and I really don’t see a huge difference, but it noticeably weighs less which helps. My point is that all of the fans who complain and whine over these “new-fangled composite sticks that always break”, should realize that they aren’t going anywhere. Players will continue to use them until the next stick invention is made, so sit back, relax, and get ready to watch the sticks explode some more.

My Trip To Montreal

2007-12-19T21:26:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I was enjoying a snow filled, hockey inspired trip to the city that breathes... Montreal. Myself and three of my friends, one being a Habs fan, were all attending our first game live. What better place then the Bell Centre for a classic match with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens? The game is just oozing with intensity and pre-game gitters. Well, it appears the hockey gods had other plans and decided to ruin the party, well for the Blue & White amigos anyway. The game was pure domination by the Habs, they combined their solid play with a physical dominance at stretches throughout the game. They also took advantage of the Leafs and capitalized on their lackluster, uninspired, lazy plays. And, of course, a dash of luck was added to the mix. Three of the goals on burning hot Vesa Toskala were re-directs, and weird ones. Off our own players or off a Habs player's glove, it didn't matter, it just wasn't there. Oh and did I mention Bryan McCabe broke his hand in three places? Yikes batman.

With that said though, the atmosphere was absolutely incredible. The building was electric and would not cease to cheer ( with some random ''Go Leafs Go!'' chants in there as well). Because of this, I had a blast. The game did not match my expectations, but the Bell Centre surpassed mine. And the folks were downright classy. They yelled at me but it was all in good fun, a bunch of them came over to shake our hands and tell us ''good game''.....what a load that line was.

The city itself is absolutely breath taking. I was starring in amazement at the many facets of Montreal. I even visited the Montreal Casino ( and lost money, pf!) which was a new experience. I can't say I wasn't amazed by buying alchool in the grocery stores though... how delightful!

Now the trip takes a turn, which was still fun... somehow. To start, I ended up losing my voice shortly after the game from screaming like a mad man. Shortly after this, guess what decides to make its acquaintance? A snow storm. So we had to stay an extra day in Montreal... no big whoop right? Well, the following day we left the beautiful city of Montreal. We were off on the road and ready to go home. About three hours from Sudbury, we arrive in a little town called Mattawa. On our way through the city, we hit an ice patch on the road ( my friend was driving, and he's a Habs fan; figures) and the car goes berserk. The car swerves in the opposite lane, where there was luckily no cars passing, and then jolted back on the opposite side of the road. The car proceeded to hit a snow bank, going right through it, and flying at a fast enough speed through a gentleman's fence. Turns out the guy has, or had, barbed wire on top and two of the tires were popped. So now we get a local citizen to come help us out and push the car out of the guy's yard, after trying for nearly a half hour ourselves. But, it turns out my buddy ( reminder: Habs fan) locked his keys in the car by accident when he got out! So now the car is running and we can't get in.

After this, a police car got involved, and we had to fill out the report and what not. Now we had to call a tow-truck, but since we were four, he could only hold two of us with him. So me and the Haberoo got to ride in the police car. Myself in the back behind those dreadful bars, and an awkward amount of leg room ( seriously, they might as well cut off your legs). I was hoping the cop would bust a criminal so I could talk to him but no dice.

After all that, the trip ended. And it was faaannnnnnntastic!

McCabe Breaks Hand in 3 Places, Leafs Nation Rejoices?

2007-12-15T23:39:00.000-05:00

But seriously folks, I don't want to hear anything from the people who were ragging on him earlier this year. You wanted him gone, you got your wish. It looks like he'll be out for a while now. McCabe was hit awkwardly into the boards by Canadiens forward Andrei Kostitsyn in the third period, and looked severely injured right away. After the game it was announced that McCabe suffered 3 broken bones in his hand on the play and will likely miss over six weeks, more if surgery is necessary. Leafs coach Paul Maurice was livid with the play after the game, basically calling it a cheap shot. I'm pretty sure that it was just the emotions talking, but you still have to be able to control what you say. Kostitsyn clearly did not intend to hurt McCabe, and nothing else should come of this.

To add insult to injury, with McCabe writhing in pain on the ice, the Habs' Alex Kovalev was able to go down the ice and score his 14th goal of the season. The rambunctious crowd of over 21 thousand (our own Ron Guillet one of them) saw goaltender Carey Price make 28 saves for the win, the same night that Jaroslav Halak was sent back down to Hamilton because of Cristobal Huet's injury being over. When you really boil it down, the Leafs not only lost the game tonight, they also lost their top minute eater which could prove to be their biggest loss of all.

Luongo Injured, MacIntyre Recalled

2007-12-11T17:04:00.000-05:00

Roberto Luongo will miss the next few games due to an apparent rib injury which has been aggravating him for the past few games. The Canucks have recalled Drew MacIntyre from the Manitoba Moose of the AHL to replace him. If that name rings a bell, it is probably because I did a scouting report on MacIntyre earlier this year when I saw him play a game in Hamilton against the Bulldogs. He played very well, and I was thoroughly impressed by him and his style. I even stated that I would like to see him at the next level, to see how he would fare. Well, now may be his chance. We don't know yet if he will actually get to play, or if backup Curtis Sanford will play all of the games while Luongo is out. We know that Sanford will start their next game, against the Ducks tomorrow. I hope the Canucks give him at least 1 game, because he deserves it, especially after the start he has had in the AHL this year. In 16 games so far this year, he has a 11-4-1 record, 2.28 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage. Like I said before, I like MacIntyre's style and overall confidence, and I really hope to see him get a shot in Vancouver.

The Importance Of Fighting

2007-12-09T20:40:00.000-05:00

In the wake of recent discussions regarding fighting in the NHL, I feel I have to voice my opinion on to why it is so important in this league. The action of throwing down the fist cuffs and landing some hay makers on another human beings' face is certainly violent and dangerous, but not to that degree in hockey. This sport has lain its foundation on selling an up-pace, aggressive, hard nosed, intensity game ever since the league began in 1917. The art of fighting in the NHL is not just two goons who pound each other senseless for the simple act of retribution. It's a cornerstone of the game that can define a team's turn around and gain of momentum. It is also a selling point to those who are new to the game. Despite what some may think, this violent and aggressive action is what most fans enjoy to see. It is what separates the NHL from other sports. It has defined itself... do not take that away.

While many complain of cheap shots, like hitting the head, intent to injure, hitting from behind, etc., these are situation that are often run on emotions of the players who seek revenge on a certain player. It's a gutless act, but can you imagine the impact of removing fighting after seeing this? Fighting is not only a momentum gaining tactic, it's a dance that also vents two players frustrations on one another. Without fighting, how do players react to plays they don't like? Well, you'd see an increase on dirty plays which many fear is affecting the sports popularity.

To touch back on the roots of the game, fighting is also a factor in a teams success. Without a ''goon'', so to speak, who defends the all-star player? Who makes players think twice about roughing up their players or most importantly, the goaltender? Fighting in hockey is a message, or a tool rather to better define what the game is about.

Also, let's not forget about the fans. An aspect of the game that can lower or higher the spirits of a team. When a home teams' player wins a fight, when does it not jolt a burst of energy to the fans, which then translates to the players? Like it or not, fighting is a big part in the great game of hockey, it affects the many facets that makes this game so coveted by hockey fans around the world.

Interview With Cedrick Desjardins

2007-12-08T11:49:00.001-05:00

This morning I had the chance to speak with Cedrick Desjardins of the Hamilton Bulldogs at Copps Coliseum. He was kind enough to answer all of my questions, despite being put on short notice. Cedrick played Major Junior hockey in Rimouski for 3 years before being traded to the Quebec Remparts in his final year of junior. He was not drafted, but was signed by the Montreal Canadiens and sent to their ECHL affiliate the Cincinnati Cyclones. With the injury to Cristobal Huet, Jaroslav Halak was called up, which prompted Cedrick to be called up to the Bulldogs. In 10 games so far this year in the ECHL he has posted a 6-3-1 record with a 2.01 goals against average, and a .924 save percentage. I would like to thank Derek Wills, the Director of Broadcasting and Communications and Play-By-Play Announcer of the Hamilton Bulldogs for helping me set up this interview, it is much appreciated.

Greg: Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions before a game?

Cedrick: The past four or five years I've started the same, doing my sticks and stuff, and playing with a bouncing ball. I'll do stretching, I'll pretty much do it the same way. I've got a ritual before every game, like the day before I'll take a nap and the same day too. Pretty much the same way (every game).

Greg: Do you remember your first AHL game, and what was that experience like?

Cedrick: My first AHL game was last year when I got called up here (Hamilton), I played a couple of games in exhibition, but my first real AHL game was in February of last year, we were down in Syracuse.

Greg: You played with Sidney Crosby in Rimouski, he certainly brought a lot of attention to the team, what was that like?

Cedrick: We were excited because everywhere we were going was a sold out crowd, and he was a great guy. He wasn't selfish at all. After games he'd have thousands of people waiting for him, and it was like he had a security guard only for him. On the bus we'd be eating our little chicken (dinners), and he'd still be signing autographs. Good memories about him. He was always a great guy, and it was a pleasure to play with him.

Greg: In your last year of Major Junior hockey you got traded from Rimouski to Quebec, was that a difficult adjustment for you?

Cedrick: It's always difficult the first time you get traded, I had tons of friends in Rimouski, I had a lot of friends there. It wasn't too bad though, they were two great organizations, so I didn't feel lost by that, but it's different. You have to build new friendships, same for your teammates. I didn't know anyone in Quebec, I only played with a couple of guys before. You have to meet different guys, meet a different coach. They trade for you because they want you and they trust you, so you have to prove to them as well. There was a little bit of pressure that I put on myself, but yeah that's the way it is.

Greg: Do you still keep in touch with any of the guys you played with in Rimouski?

Cedrick: Yeah, a couple of guys. A lot of the guys are playing pro right now, so sometimes we'll just shake hands, have a couple of pops. If they're available in the summer, I'll skate with a couple of guys who I played with in junior. It's always good memories in juniors.

Greg: Which former teammate or coach has helped you the most so far in your career?

Cedrick: I learned a lot in junior when I was with Rimouski because I had a great coach there, atmosphere and family, it was great. It was the same when I was in Quebec, I had a great goalie coach there, and of course my coach was Patrick Roy, he was also a good helper. Everything in Rimouski helped me to be a better goaltender, and when I came to Quebec it was a good step to help me be ready to go to the pros.

Greg: Besides hockey, did you play any other sports growing up?

Cedrick: I always played tons of sports, but the main ones were Baseball and Golf. They were my favourite in the summer. Those were pretty much the sports I was playing in the summer time, but in the winter it was always hockey. I didn't snowboard or anything, it was only hockey.

Greg: Did you always want to be a goaltender, ever since you were little?

Cedrick: I was a player until, like, Atom? We didn't have any goaltenders in our district, so I asked my Dad if I would be able to be a goalie. He wasn't very happy, he told me that I had great skills to be a player, he always wanted me to be a player, but he accepted it, he accepted my choice and he's pretty proud of it now.

Greg: You obviously made a good choice.

Cedrick: Yeah, exactly (Laughs)

Greg: When did you realize that you had a shot at playing professionally?

Cedrick: I was a little disappointed to not be drafted, so I kinda thought that I may need to go to school, I might have to deal with that and get a job, just play hockey for fun. After that I was struggling a little bit, but I had a great year in Rimouski, a great end of the year in Rimouski, then I had a great year in Quebec. I think hockey is just a passion for me and my family, so I didn't want to quit because I still had a chance to go to a higher level. They gave me a chance with a contract here in Montreal, and I'm waiting. Everything is so far so good right now in pro, so I try to take it one step at a time. I'll take my chances, perhaps I'll be able to get there.

Greg: What's your opinion on making nets bigger to increase scoring?

Cedrick: I don't think we're playing soccer. You can change the rules about holding and interference and stuff, that's good because it'll make the guys play faster, and when they play faster I think I'm the kind of goalie who's able to adjust to that easily. You can try to change the equipment on the goalie instead, but make sure his security (safety) is still good. I tried it at rookie camp with Montreal, in Toronto, and they had the bigger nets but the scores were still, like 3-1, 2-1, so it wasn't a big difference. They were a little bit bigger, but it didn't change it that much. There are a lot of other things you can do to change the game, but you can't touch the base of the game really.

Greg: Who is the funniest guy off the ice that you have ever played with?

Cedrick: The funniest guy... (thinks). It depends, I remember many funny parts, but the funniest guy...

Greg: Too many to name?

Cedrick:Yeah, all guys have their own humour, but I know J.P Cote here is a funny guy, I like him. I'm always training with him and he always has this big smile, and always has the little jokes to make you happy in the morning. Those kinds of guys I like, from here. When you're in the locker room a lot of guys have their own humour that make everyone happy, so yeah, that's pretty much it.

Greg: Is there any significance behind your number?

Cedrick: Yeah, but not the one here. The number I always have is 30, it's my birthday, and 3 is kind of my lucky number, so that's pretty much the reason why.

Greg: Who was your favourite player growing up?

Cedrick: I was a Nordique fan, so Joe Sakic as a forward was one of the guys I looked up to, and Gretzky and all those guys. As a goalie I was a little bit of a fan of Patrick Roy and a couple of other French guys like Brodeur or Luongo, those kind of guys. Pretty much all of the French guys that are in the NHL right now and are doing pretty good. It's pretty much like they are my mentors to get better, because those guys are able to do it.

Greg: What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next season?

Cedrick: Training. Now guys, especially goalies, most of them are European guys and they are in really, really good shape. You need to increase your power, especially in your legs. You have to do a lot of footwork, a lot of squats to get your power and your strength to be ready for the season. Especially to get less injuries during the year. After the season I usually take one month off pretty much, but after that it'll be two or three months of training, so it's pretty intense.

Greg: What do you do in your spare time in the offseason?

Cedrick: I try to go out with my buddies that I haven't seen for a while. When the season starts we are so busy, sometimes I'll be able to call them but I'll never have time to go back home and see them, so the month off I have is to pretty much see everybody, family, friends, old teammates, go to a couple of parties and stuff and just hang out with them, so it's good.

Greg: Thank you very much for doing this!

Cedrick: No problem, my pleasure.

Vesa Toskala Superb : Prepare For New York Rangers

2007-12-06T00:14:00.000-05:00

In the night the Leafs played the western conference Nashville Predators, there was one shining light of hope throughout the night. It was none other then the man I was defending a couple of weeks back. Vesa Toskala was nothing short of sensational last night, he was shutting down the Preds all night and drove Jason Arnott to a severe headache, who told Toskala during the game '' How the hell do I get one by you?'' Vesa replied with a smile. And that smile transferred to the fans, who were cheering as loud as I've heard them for the Finnish net minder. Chants of '' We love Vesa!'' were echoing throughout the ACC... until Kaberle tipped one past Toskala to spoil the shut-out about 5 seconds later. Figures. Either way, we got the 2 points and are now on a run with 3 wins in a row. But Thursday night will be a huge test for not only Toskala, but T-Dot's team, and more specifically defense. The core has clearly bought in to Paul Maurice's defense first approach and it's working beautifully so far. Vesa Toskala has not let in more than 3 goals in his last 11 full starts. He has had six 2 goals against games, three 3 goals against, one goal against twice, and 1 shut-out. He's been superb.

In come the New York Rangers, a team who's now second in the east making the Ottawa Senators actually look back in fear. Lundqvist has been nothing short of superb with 4 shutouts so far this season. Shanahan has woken from slumber and provided the Rangers with some offensive help. Jaromir Jagr, another sleeping beast, has awoken as well and is one of the main primers for the Rangers recent success. It appears the gears are now in motion and the Rangers mean business. I pick them to the win the cup in the East Conference. I pick the Vancouver Canucks for the West. Would be a good Stanley Cup Final.

The Leafs will have to tighten up on D and force Rangers to take shots from the perimeter. Do not worry about Vesa Toskala and just play your game, do not take chances. Play a simple, defensive, boring game and the W is in reach. 4 in a row would be a huge statement for a comeback and would raise the spirits of many.

Keep on truckin'!

Recchi Placed On Waivers

2007-12-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

Mark Recchi has been placed on waivers. This is intresting considering his cap hit is only at 1.75 mil per season. This allows many teams to swoop in and grab the struggling veteran. He's been a healthy scratch in 8 of his last 9 games and has only registered 2 goals and 6 assists in 17 games. Careful though JFJ, do not get your fingers greasy with this one. I think he'd be a decent signing to push for 7th or 8th place, but that should not be our goal. We need youth, and signing him would take a step backwards.

My prediction is Calgary takes him.

A Flyer Suspended? That's New!

2007-12-03T17:08:00.001-05:00

I know it may seem like I'm ragging on the Flyers, but it's kind of hard to ignore it when they are getting a suspension handed down every other game. The newest culprit: Riley Cote for his head-shot on Matt Niskanen of the Dallas Stars two days ago. Now I haven't seen it yet, so I'm not gonna BS my way through this, telling you how dirty of a hit it was. It was obviously bad enough to merit a 3-game suspension, because that is exactly what he got. My question is, "What is Gary Bettman waiting for?". Stick it to these guys already! Five suspensions already and we're not even half-way through the year. It's not like they haven't been warned yet, and these suspensions obviously aren't stopping them. Hit them where it hurts, either the pocketbook or the scoreboard. That's right, I'm suggesting that after a certain amount of suspensions the league should start to take away points from the team. Losing a goon for 3 or 4 games isn't punishment enough for the team, so the only plausible way we can rid the game of these cheap shots is to start taking away points after a certain amount of suspensions. Now we play the waiting game until the next Flyers suspension. What's the over-under on Ben Eager being next?

EDIT: Just so I don't look like a complete Flyer hater, Scott Nichol of the Preds has also been suspended for 5 games for his hit(s) on Montreal's Patrice Briesbois which I did see. Well deserved.

What Is Being a Fan?

2007-12-02T02:00:00.000-05:00

When I think of the word ''fan'' I immediately see a drunken fat guy painted in team colors yelling at the rink with pride. But what really constitutes a fan? In many occurrences in my life, I've been faced with people who allegedly cheer for a team, but when things go awry, they turn away and grab the reins of another club. Actually most of the people I converse with in person are like this, it is a frustrating affair. It's a fact that most of these people are the same one's who come crawling back when things are on the up-rise. This leaves me with the question of ' what is being a fan?'. This is an actual recognition to those I respect so much, rather than actually asking the question.

As a child, I was raised by my father to cheer for one team and one team only, I was practically constructed to be his third Habs supporter in the family. When I got older and grew an actual opinion on the game. These things really stuck with me and became my moto, so to speak, for this great game. To start my new found love for the game, however, I decided to part ways with my father and become a Leafs fan. A dastardly move considering my entire family tree consists of Habs fans. So, I was deemed the guy to rag on by the family. And this is what made me proud to be a Leafs fan. I endured it all, and this is what made me proud to cheer the Blue and White. The thought of proving them wrong and having superiority is what drove me. This eventually merged into an undoubtable, magnificent feeling of proud, excitement and respect for not only my team, but others who lace the laces of ice. Especially the Habs, who were the main contributor to my Leafs allegiance and ultimately, respect for the game.

So what is the point of that personal story? I believe this is what forms a true fan. Someone who endures the lows and highs all while thinking ahead. To truly appreciate the word ''fan'' we must first respect and learn the game as it was intended.

A sad but magnificent story when it touches your heart, is the story of Elgin Fraser, a child who had the unfortunate misfortune of cancer, but his pride, at a remarkably young age, for his team was apparent and heart warming. Here's a dedication video to the little guy, R.I.P Elgin, you've changed the lives of many and put life in perspective for myself and many other people.

Youtube Video of the Day: Go Dogs Go!

2007-11-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

I am showing you this video half because of my recent interview if Ajay Baines, and half to show you how great of a hockey town Hamilton is. Oh... and I was there...

Season Report Card (November)

2007-11-28T23:18:00.000-05:00

Team: New York Islanders
Division: Atlantic
Conference: Eastern
Record: 13-8-1 (27 Points)
Home Record: 9-3-1
Away Record: 4-5-0

Team Leaders
Goals: Josef Vasicek (9)
Assists: Mike Comrie (11)
Points: Mike Comrie (18)
+/-: Miroslav Satan (+5)
Penalty Minutes: Andy Sutton (27)

The Good: The Islanders are playing team hockey. From the offense down to the goal, the Islanders are one unit. This aspect was missing last season with the likes of Yashin and Blake in the locker room. The new look Isles have raised their game to a new level and are, as Bill Clement put it, a scary team to play against once again.

The Bad: The offense has died out like the dodo bird. Vasicek leading the team with 9 goals is ridiculous. Guerin, Comrie, Tank, Satan, and Hunter need to put their heads in the game and some pucks in the net.

The Ugly: Andy Hilbert. 1 goal, 1 assist. It took him 20 games before he acquired these points and until tonight, he was still a point behind goaltender Rick DiPietro. With tonight's assist, he is now tied with Ricky.

The Walking Wounded: Jon Sim (Knee, Indefinite), Aaron Johnson (Knee, 6-8 weeks)

Christmas Wish List: 1) Offense. 2) Offense. 3) Offense. 4) Eureka Season 2 on DVD.

Grade: B+ (Good, but Needs Improvement)

Sean Avery Out of Action

2007-11-28T15:13:00.001-05:00

Word has come out that Sean Avery underwent wrist surgery today and will be out for at least a couple of weeks. Avery took a shot toff of his wrist from teammate Brendan Shanahan in a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, and couldn't even shoot the puck during Monday's practice. It was routine arthroscopic surgery to fix some of the nagging problems he's been having. The hockey world will sorely miss the "services" of Mr. Avery for these next few weeks, especially Martin Brodeur, Jason Blake, and Darcy Tucker.

Another Game, Another Flyer Suspended

2007-11-27T15:46:00.000-05:00

TSN reports that Scott Hartnell has received a two game suspension for his hit on Andrew Alberts. There was no real reason why Hartnell should have made the hit, since Alberts was already on his knees at the time of the hit. There is no word yet on Alberts condition, but it is speculated that he'll be alright.

Now I for one think that it was a little much. I agree that the hit should have been reviewed, and that Hartnell did deserve a slap on the wrist, but two games is too much. The five-minute penalty and game misconduct he received was enough. It looked like to me that Hartnell wanted to hurt Alberts because he was already in a vulnerable position when he began the hit, and drove his face into the boards.

Another Flyer to add to the list of suspensions. This can't all be a coincidence, can it? This was also the first meeting of the two teams since the Jones/Bergeron incident. Are the Flyers really going out to hurt the other team? If so, somebody needs to tell them that the Broad Street Bully days are over.

Leafs Lose Western Stand-Off : Toskala Shaky

2007-11-25T20:08:00.000-05:00

To start, do not think I am pinning this on Vesa Toskala. But after standing up for a goaltender that I believe played very well in front of a inconsistent and downright terrible defense... he was bad. He let in a softy goal against Dallas ( by none other than Mike friggin' Ribeiro) which ultimately, was the GWG. Toskala stops that, and we have a chance. He let us down, plain and simple.

To the game itself, I thought the Leafs played a semi-decent game. Boring and unexciting. Don't really want to talk about it really. So off we went to the Phoenix Coyotes, a 500. hockey club who was 3-0 with Ilya Bryzgalov going into the match. Well, make that 4-0. Because the Leafs were downright abysmal. After Andrew Raycroft was victimized by himself and the D, he was pulled to wake-up the club. One shot later, Vesa Toskala lets a weak one by and it's 3-0. Wow. Before all is lost, the little man who can scores a goal ( Kyle Wellwood) and there is a glimmer of hope. Then the leafs slapped me in the face and lost 5-1. Great stuff.

So apparently, MLSE thinks we don't need changes. They like to keep silent and do absolutely nothing. We are the worst team in the league now. The Capitals have the same amount of wins in one less game. So we are the WORST team in the league. On paper, we are undoubtedly a playoff club but on the ice.......don't get me started.

This won't change by some minor moves either. We need a huge trade or a clean house. I would personally love a clean house but it seems a little unrealistic to me.

So with all that said, let the reign of Leafs ( this word now replaces the word abysmal) play continue.

Au revoir.

Interview with Ajay Baines

2007-11-25T17:23:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week I was able to get in touch with Hamilton Bulldogs forward Ajay Baines. Ajay played his junior hockey for the Kamloops Blazers, and broke into the AHL in 2000 playing for the Norfolk Admirals. Ajay played for them for 5 and a half seasons, becoming the franchise's all-time leading scorer. He signed a contract with the Hamilton Bulldogs last season, and helped lead them to the Calder Cup. He is highly revered as a great leader, and was invited to the Montreal Canadiens training camp earlier this year. Unfortunately, he got injured there and that injury has kept him out of action all of this year. Ajay was nice enough to answer a few questions I had for him, and I thank him for donating his time for this interview.

EH: Well Ajay, thanks for taking time out of your schedule to do this. First things first, how is your injury situation coming along?

Ajay: The injury is coming along fine. It's taken a little longer than I would've liked, but I'm not that far away now.

EH: After playing so many years in the AHL without winning the Calder Cup, how sweet was last year for you?

Ajay: Winning the Calder Cup was amazing. I guess it tastes sweeter when it takes you that long to win one!! Ha ha ha. The whole experience was incredible.

EH: Did it mean a lot to you that you scored the game winning goal in the cup-clinching game? (A beauty may I add)

Ajay: Oh man, scoring the goal was a lot of fun. You don't care who scores when you are in that situation, but c'mon, every guy dreams of scoring a goal like that!

EH: You are known around the league as a great leader, what qualities do you think you have that make people think that way?

Ajay: Haha, I don't know man. I don't think I do anything special to help lead. I just try to be myself. And I remember when I was a young guy, I was surrounded by very supportive, yet demanding older players which helped me a lot.

EH: You are also known for being one of the few East Indian hockey players playing professionally, do you feel as if you have to prove yourself to many people?

Ajay: I know there are not too many Indian guys playing hockey. And I don't know the mindset of Mangers and Hockey people out there, but I have been treated great by everyone and never once thought that my race was an issue.

EH: Does the fact that you were never drafted drive you to succeed?

Ajay: The draft was a long time ago, and there are lots of players who were never drafted who are still playing pro hockey now. I don't think about that at all.

EH: You played 4 years in the WHL for the Kamloops Blazers, how did that help your career, and are there any notable people from that time period that especially helped you along the way?

Ajay: Playing for the Blazers was a dream for me. It was my hometown and a great organization. My coach Marc Habscheid really taught me a lot of what it would take to be a pro. Jarome Iginla was a teammate who I learned a lot from even at a young age. He is the most competitive player I've ever played with.

EH: How hard was it to move on when you got traded from Norfolk, a city where you played in for 5 and a half seasons and a franchise in which you are the all-time points leader?

Ajay: Leaving Norfolk was interesting. I have a lot of great memories there and spent a big chunk of my life there. But I asked for the trade as things were not going well in my last year there. And it was a move that I needed, and my career needed.

EH: You wear the number 32, is there any significance behind that?

Ajay: 32 was the number I got in Junior. And I've worn it ever since. Shaquille O'Neal has a part of it too...

EH: Even though you got injured, what was the experience at Montreal Canadiens training camp like?

Ajay: Well last year's camp was great, this year's, I got hurt on the first day. But, an unbelievable organization. From the top to the bottom.

EH: Carey Price obviously played a major role in winning the Calder Cup last season, was there any doubt in your mind that he would make the jump to the NHL this year?

Ajay: Carey Price is the real deal. There was no doubt in my mind.

EH: Who is the funniest player you have ever played with?

Ajay: I've played with some real characters. 2 of them in Norfolk, Nick Kuiper and Matt Keith. And Cory Urquhart here in Hamilton.

EH: Out of all the players you have played against, who was the hardest to keep up with?

Ajay: I think Patrick Marleau in junior. He was so fast and he was only 17. Marian Hossa was a incredible as well.

Tavares Will Have to Wait

2007-11-23T23:16:00.000-05:00

The Hockey News reports that John Tavares has committed to staying in the OHL next season, playing for the Oshawa Generals. Tavares is only five days short of being draft-eligible in '08, instead he'll have to wait until the 2009 draft.

Tavares raised eyebrows when it was reported that Leafs GM John Fergusen Jr. had contacted him about playing for their AHL team next year, completely bypassing the draft. Not only did I wholeheartedly believe that the situation should never have been discussed, it turned out later that it would have been very difficult for him to get into the league in the first place, since the AHL's commissioner stated that he would not allow it.

It was clear that Tavares explored all options trying to leave the Generals to play somewhere pro next season, but it seems that his search has come to an end. Now we speculate on who will end up with the first overall pick in 2009, I'm sure the Leafs have a great chance now ;)

Vesa Toskala Has Been Great, And I'm Sticking To It!

2007-11-21T22:38:00.000-05:00

On the verge of a disheartening 4-2 loss to the Bruins, it appears as if Vesa Toskala is now being labelled ''average'' ''fair'' or even ''mediocre''. Give me a freakin' break. Give your head a shake while your at too. The guy has let in two.....TWO....weak goals all season. He's been giving us a chance to win every night and has made huge saves when needed, look at the games vs. Habs specifically. How on earth do you expect him to recover the Leafs defensive gaffes? These aren't your ordinary mistakes either, it's leaving your goaltender helpless and stranded in the crease....or outside of it. The Leafs, admittedly from Pavel Kubina, too often leave one offender in front of the net with no one covering him because the two defense-man chase ONE guy. Yea, and we wonder why we get scored on so much. Not only that, but the Leafs can't get control in their zone; every game they are running in circles in their own zone while the opposition passes the puck around with ease.... it's look like a PP for crying out loud. Also, if the opponents get a rush, our defense-man like to huddle up to the crease and screen our goalies, an effective task for losing games indeed.

To me, all this comes back to the negative, pathetic energy that surrounds this Leafs club. A drop of failure is a bucket full in a matter of seconds. And suddenly, your on the Jose Theodore train.

Give me a break!

Ugh.

Big night at the Bell Centre for the Big Bird

2007-11-19T10:31:00.000-05:00

I'm not old enough to remember much of Larry Robinson's playing career, but the stories that I've heard, both from my father and from writers and broadcasters (among others) in Montreal, as well as the videos, pictures, etc, not to mention his coaching career in New Jersey, allow me to recognize that Larry Robinson is one of the greatest defensemen of all time.

Tonight, he gets his honors in Montreal, as after roughly 6:30 EST this evening, no Montreal Canadiens player will ever be allowed to wear his #19 ever again.

A hall of famer, a Conn Smythe winner, a multiple time Norris Trophy winner, and Stanley Cups coming out of the wazoo, both as a player and a coach, Robinson is regarded as one of the best players of all time, and I'd certainly put him in my top 6 defensemen of all time as well.

Ceremonies in Montreal start at 6:30 sharp this evening, where Robinson will be introduced by Lou Lamoriello (an interesting sight, to see Big Lou on the ice at the Bell Centre, it will be). As history has shown, it will certainly be a great ceremony, a fitting tribute, followed by a great match-up in Montreal vs. Ottawa, which takes a back seat tonight.

An important night for the Habs, both on the ice and up on the rafters, and an important game that takes a bit of a back seat.

I'll certainly be glued to my television set (wishing I was at the game... but hey, I got to go on Saturday so why am I complaining?), and hopefully all of you will be to.

Short blog today, but i'll save the tributes to the pros. Meanwhile, here's a tribute to Mr. Robinson courtesy of Youtube and Legends of hockey (sorry for stealing your Youtube bit Egg):

Oh How the Mighty Have Fallen...Or Have They?

2007-11-17T13:35:00.000-05:00

Well, it took 15 games but the Sabres finally managed to score the first goal in their 4-1 win over the Canadiens last night. The streak was broken by recent Rochester call-up Clarke MacArthur. Buffalo is a completely different team playing with the lead as they force teams to open up, which creates space for the playmakers like Max, Vanek, Connolly, and Roy. The Sabres have played well recently although have not been reciprocated for their efforts. They out shot Ottawa in a 3-2 loss that could have gone either way.

Now that the Sabres have garnered a few goals and a much needed win, I expect that players will stop gripping the stick so tightly and get back to what made them successful. With Connolly expected to return shortly, Buffalo will be receiving a much needed offensive spark. The return could not come at a better time for the Sabres. Their next 3 games will be against NE division opponents and if the squad can manage to string a couple of wins together, it will go along way in getting them back into playoff contention.

The Sabres currently sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, although I do not expect that to continue. Look for the Sabres to make a strong push here and show that they are a team to be reckoned with.

On a side note defenseman Teppo Numminen has began skating. No timeframe has been established for his return...yet.

The Sabres will take on the Ottawa Senators Wednesday Night at HSBC.

Bryzgalov on waivers: Genius or utter stupidity?

2007-11-17T02:36:00.000-05:00

So Brian Burke placed his back-up goalie on waivers, after literally years of waiting for Ilya Bryzgalov to be moved in a deal. Jean-Sebastien Giguere is an always has been the #1 goalie in Anaheim, there's no denying that.

But with the move Burke made yesterday involving Bryzgalov, a few questions arise. Firstly, why did it take him so long to do something with Ilya if it was clear he had no future with the team? Secondly, why would he settle with putting Bryzgalov on waivers?

Public acknowledgment seems to be that Burke played Bryzgalov on waivers in order to get him to play as the #1 goalie he "deserves" to be somewhere else in the NHL as soon as possible. Deals were attempted but nothing panned out.

Specifically, Burke told TSN:

"I'm keeping my word to a player here. Ilya Bryzgalov has won three playoff rounds for us and has played very well. But we've committed ourselves to two other goaltenders in Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Jonas Hiller. I told him if I couldn't find a place to play, I would put him on waivers. I gave his agent Don Meehan a time frame, and we're keeping our word to a player. As an organization, we find that to be important. He's a good kid, we know he'll get picked up and he'll play well wherever he goes. He's done his part for us over the last two seasons, and it's time we kept our word."

This strikes me as a little odd because I can think of a handful of teams in the NHL in need of a goaltender without even blinking. Pittsburgh, Edmonton, Phoenix and Atlanta, among other teams, could all use a number one goaltender. Add that to the fact that Bryzgalov has performed fairly well in his career and the fact that he has playoff experience and that he's cheap and a deal seems almost sure-fire, as a team such as Pittsburgh would have a better chance at nabbing Bryzgalov through trade as opposed to the waiver wire, where they sit close to the bottom of the pack compared to other teams in need of a goalie.

So that got me to thinking. Is Brian Burke completely and utterly crazy, or just full of B.S.? No way Bryzgalov is untradable. There must be something more to this story. So I compiled a list of possible answers to these questions. Why was Ilya Bryzgalov put on waivers and not traded?

a) Bryz was a cancer in the locker room and Burke and the other players wanted him out as soon as possible;

b) Strictly a cap move... Neidermayer's coming back, cap works on a daily basis, so every day with a few dollars less against the cap counts;

c) Other teams refused to negotiate with Burke because he's a jackass and outed confidential discussions last year after the trade deadline, publicly bashed another GM in Lowe (no matter what you think of the Penner move), and is an all-round hothead;

d) Burke was continuously low-balled on Bryzgalov and didn't want to be made to look like an idiot trading him for nothing when JFJ, for instance, gave up everything but the kitchen sink to get a glorified back-up goalie in Toskala;

e) There's something about Bryzgalov we don't know (this ties in to choice a) which makes him untradeable;

f) Brian Burke is just simply an idiot.

Take your choice, any of these solutions is plausible, but to say you put him on waivers because you wanted him to get some games under his belt... come on Burkie, we're not stupid, and we know you're supposed to tell it like it is. The way this was handled was just fishy.

Leafs Continue Journey... Of Mediocre Play

2007-11-17T00:03:00.000-05:00

Well, with all guns blazing and ready for the big Habs game on Tuesday, we came out quite good actually. We out shot Montreal 40-25 and we generated some decent D, decent goaltending and decent offense. Hulk Hogan, otherwise known as Bryan McCabe ( love his handlebars) had something to up his sleeve however. Shortly after overtime began, McCabe, with his head down, passed the puck to Nik Antropov. Actually, scratch that. He passed the puck to Mike Komisarek who got a break-away from his OWN blue-line and scored a 5-hole game-winning goal on Andrew Raycroft... who was out of luck.

So off we go, another tilt with another northeast division rival. The Boston Bruins, the Big Bad Bears, an original six foe. After losing a close game, which the Leafs should of won against the Habs, they will surely show up for a great tilt. Not! We lost 5-2. Raycroft was terrible. Defense was terrible. Offense was terrible. Not ONE forward standed out to me... and that's a scary thought.

These recent events, which have been on-going since the beginning of the season, tell me one thing. We have no character. We can't bounce back after tough losses and we can't get the job done. Win or lose, we're always the same. Mediocre.

I had enough of this, either clean house or just fire JFJ. I don't care, do something, because this is embarrassing and this kind of up and down play will get us no good picks, no playoffs, no nothing.

It has to end.

Rant over.

Brodeur Denied #500... Again

2007-11-16T22:54:00.000-05:00

Martin Broduer is now in a mini 3-game slump, keeping him stuck at 499 wins, highlighted by a crushing 1-0 defeat to the Islanders tonight. Kevin Weekes got to play in a game during this streak, which he won. I believe the New Yorkers call this the "A-Rod Curse". He knows that there are significantly more eyes watching this game because of the impending milestone, but is he losing because he's nervous? Absolutely not. Remember, this is the guy who won a gold medal with Team Canada, in arguably the most-watched game in Canada in the past ten years.

He's a future Hall of Famer, and has 3 Stanley Cup rings to his credit. 500 wins is just an icing on the cake that is his career, no need to be worried about it. Marty hasn't even been playing bad during this stretch, a stretch in which his team has only scored 11 goals in 7 games.

Rick Di Pietro was fantastic in the 1-0 win, stopping 26 shots. There was also a good fight between David Clarkson and Tim Jackman which added to an overall exciting game despite the lack of offense. Yes, it is possible to have an exciting 1-0 game!

Marty Brodeur just has to sit back and relax, win #500 will come soon enough, but hurry up already will ya? You're killing my fantasy team!

Killer Kids

2007-11-16T13:37:00.000-05:00

In a season so dominated by the hype of stars Gomez and Drury, the other "new" Rangers have given fans a reason to get excited. Rookies Nigel Dawes, Brandon Dubinsky and Marc Staal have provided a total of 7 goals in this young season. And indeed, the season is young as the Rangers have drawn success from their kids more than from the seasoned vets.

The three rookies all scored in the Rangers 4-2 win over the Devils, the Rangers 3rd straight win and 7th out of their last 8.

Dawes

Nigel started the season on a roll after getting called up a few games in. He scored three goals in his first four games but slowed down for a while.

Jamie Langenbrunner scored in the first minute of regulation givng the Devils a 1-0 lead.

40 seconds later, Dawes got his chance. Drury stole the puck at the Rangers line and sent it to Dawes who was streaking down the right wing. He entered the zone on a 2 on 1 and moved in quickly on Marty Brodeur. As he approached the crease, he squeezed it between the blocker and pad of the Devils goaltender. The tying marker was Dawes 4th goal this season and would be the last goal of the first period.

Dubinsky

Brandon earned a roster spot in training camp and was slated to center the third line. But when things got ugly on the Jagr line, Dubinsky was sent to the top line on a experimental basis. He never came down. Jagr loves playing with him, which is a victory in itself, and feels reponsible to help Brandon in his development. This has given the young center the best possible situation for success now and down the road.

On Wednesday, Dubinsky gave the Rangers their first lead of the game. Jagr had gotten the puck along the right boards and skated to the center of the zone for a wrist shot. Brodeur knocked it down but left the rebound at the top of the crease. Dubinsky pounced on it and banged it past a diving Brodeur. The marker was the second goal of the season and his career. Jagr added a power play wraparound goal in the last minute of the second, his fourth goal of the season.

Staal

If Gomez and Drury are big hockey names, Staal is even bigger. The four Staal brothers are Eastern Canada's equivalent of the Sutters, all of them with bright NHL futures. Marc is the only defenseman in the group but may be the most talented. After promising seasons in the OHL, Marc broke through to the big club. And has not dissappointed. His growth in the few weeks he has had with the team has been unbelievable. He has gone from looking like a...well...rookie into looking confident and solid on the ice. He has made great defensive plays and rarely any errors, something that can go unnoticed but is really the most important thing to have in a hockey player (see Malik). The Rangers drafted a great player and he should be the Rangers #1 D-man for years to come.

In the third period, Staal got on the board. Gomez had the puck in the right corner and center to Shanahan in the slot. Shanahan faked the one-timer put let the puck slide past his stick. Staal hesitated after the unexpected move but recovered and made a nice play to keep the puck in the zone. The Devils were still wondering where Shanny's shot had ended up and Staal had room to walk in from the point. He sent a quick wrist shot over the right shoulder of Brodeur and to the top corner of the net. for his first career goal. The accuracy and power of the shot was remarkable but not surprising. After all, he is a Staal.

Last Ditch Effort

The Devils answered at the midway point with another goal from Langenbrunner. He is in his first game back from an injury and celebrated his return with a two goal effort. The Devils rallied around the goal and put a tremendous amount of pressure on the Rangers. And then they got their chance.Brian Gionta stole the puck on a Rangers power play and had a clear breakaway on Lundqvist. As soon as Gionta touched the puck, Lundqvist came out of his crease and got in position for the breakaway. Gionta came head on and fired a wrist shot that was wired for the top right corner. Lundqvist threw his glove up and knocked it away, sealing the victory and giving the blueshirts their third win over the Devils this season.

Blue Bites

-Scott Gomez extended his point streak to 7 games. His two helpers tonight gave him 8 on the season.

-Jason Blake told Sam Rosen of MSG Network that he did not hear Sean Avery make any comment about his cancer during a pregame scuffle betweeen the Rangers and Leafs on Saturday night.

-The Rangers had their third 4+ goal game of the season, the other two coming against Florida and Pittsburgh at MSG.

-The Rangers improve their road record to 2-5-1 and overall are 10-7-1 with 21 points. They are currently 1 point behind the Flyers for 1st in the Atlantic Division

Youtube Video of the Day: McCabe at his Best

2007-11-14T18:01:00.000-05:00

In honour of last nights' beautiful pass to win the game, here's a reminder of one of his many earlier gaffes, like you need it:

GAS Line + 4th Line + Henrik = Red Hot Rangers

2007-11-12T21:08:00.000-05:00

First nine: 2-5-1. Last nine: 7-2-0.

That tells the story of the turnaround the Rangers have made in this young season. That proves that the early hiccups that this team experienced were nothing more than growing pains. That when the right line combinations are found and the players learn to play with each other, it will create success. That when the team defense is consistanly excellent, and even when it is not, there is a world class goaltender to clean up after the mistakes, this team will win games. A lot of games.

There are many notable issues to discuss about the recent success of the Rangers and I will point out a few that stood out in my mind.

The Gomez-Avery-Shanahan (the GAS line, spread the word) has had the most offensive success of any line this season. Obviously, Gomez is coming into his game and is figuring out how to play in a new system. His speed brings a whole new dimension to the game. When I see him touch the puck, I find myself sitting on the edge of my seat, even if he only has it in the defensive end. He has made beautiful passes and is even scoring goals (4) much to the surprise of the Devils fans. Avery is still being Avery by adding a distraction as well as an underrated scoring threat. He is prone to pick up Gordie Howe Hat Tricks. And Shanahan can play his game, glide around to some open ice and expect a perfect feed from one of his linemates. It also helps that the Jagr line draws the top defensmen, even though two of the forwards, Dubinsky and Hossa, are far from elite. All this has translated into great offensive production from this line.

The fourth line of Orr-Betts-Hollweg who I so willingly and rightfully ripped this summer, calling them "useless" among other things, has really become a shutdown defensive line. They still dont score, mind you, but they have been matched up against the top opposing line for the past few games. I do not remember a goal scored while that line was on the ice yet they have faced quality lines. The team defense system preached by Tom Renney is really represented in this group which, a year ago consisted of a fighter, a hitter and a PK/ shot blocking specialist. Now they play their roles to perfection and allow the offensive lines to have more favorable matchups.

What can you say about Henrik Lundqvist. The guy kept the Rangers in it early and boosted them ahead as of late. In his third year, he is playing even better than he did in his two Vezina finalist season. He is really playing awesome hockey and deserves all of the praise that hes been receiving. It seems impossible to score against him and goals against are rarely his fault. The Rangers really have a gem and better sign him before he gets too expensive because he is a guy who should be a career Ranger. As for this season, if he can keep up the pace, he should clinch another Vezina final and perhaps even win the award. If you want one goaltender in net in the postseason, it is no doubt Henrik Lundqvist.

The next game is Wednesday at the Prudential Center when the Rangers face-off against the struggling Devils in game 2 of a crucial 4 game road trip.

For now,
KH30/R2R

The Week That Was And Preparing For An Old Foe

2007-11-12T14:50:00.000-05:00

Well, after stating that this week would be crucial for the Leafs. They came out... exactly the same. They started 6-6-3 and ended 7-7-4. But this can be viewed as a positive for this inconsistent and mediocre club. After being destroyed by the Sens 5-1 they rallied back with a 3-0 win over the struggling Sabres ( it'll turn around, Max) and salvaged a point against the surging Rangers and one by the name of Sean Avery, we'll get to him later. Let's re-cap the recent turn of events in Leaf-land shall we?

The week began with an important match-up against the Sens, one that would potentially turn this Leafs club around. But what skated the ice... is a different story. A few players were ready, specifically Vesa Toskala, who tried his best to cover up the massive mistakes from the Leafs D. In the end, he just couldn't do it. These mistakes aren't your ordinary gaffes... these are mistakes that the goaltender would have to pull a Jesus-like save from his hat...which is not happening, by any goaltender. Jada, Jada, Jada, score here, score there and we got a 5-1 score for the Sens.

On we go to the Buffalo Sabres, a club that I thought would ignite against their divisional foes and turn their club around, who I still believe, will do so! To the Sabres credit, they played solid. The offense was generating shots but, very surprisingly, our D was good. And Raycroft took advantage by getting the goose egg. A great accomplishment with our D, truly a rare feat. So things were turning around, one team left for the week that was and it ended with the New York Rangers and thug-boy Sean Avery.

Hockey Night in Canada, Saturday night, game against an original six foe. Doesn't get much better right? Well apparently Sean Avery thought it could, and he started by trolling Darcy Tucker and then Jason Blake who came to his defense. Classy move, Avery... you are not surprisingly taking this to far. I await the day you get clocked and pay for your tom-foolery. Excuse my un-classiness, I suppose. The game was a good one, the Rangers showed up, and so did the Leafs. Our D helped Toskala who played a solid game but unfortunately for us... the game went to a shootout. Yup, the shootout. A skills competition that our club can't handle it seems. Our forwards have a tough time scoring, really tough actually, and our goaltenders can't seem to make the save ( Toskala looks horrible in the shootout, maybe his height is in play?) . So we lose 3-2 but garner a point for our efforts and move on to a new week. One that begins with the Montreal Canadiens.

It will be a Tuesday night battle. Leafs vs. Habs. Original-Six showdown with two teams who create the one of the biggest and best in sports today. But this time, a twist! Carey Price will face the Buds rubber rather than Cristobal Huet, a goaltender who clearly struggles against the Blue and White. Although I'd love to see Justin Pogge in the cage facing future superstar Carey Price, we'll see either Toskala or Raycroft. And my guess is Raycroft after a spectacular start against the Sabres. But something to keep in mind is that Toskala has stolen the W for us both times with the Habs so the better choice, IMHO, is Toskala. We'll have to wait and see.

All this and more in the next installment of... Toronto Maple Leafs Mediocricy, starring JFJ and MLSE!

Kubina's Injury More Costly Than Expected

2007-11-11T18:05:00.001-05:00

Greetings, long time no see folks, but I'm back, kind of and I'm not wasting time.

Kubina's injury is going to cost the Leafs a lot more than anybody is going to expect. To begin with, our 5 million dollar a year number 2 is down. That's the obvious part. He's not my favorite player, and I'd actually like to see him traded but that's not because he's Aki Berg-like, it's because we already have a guy exactly like him in McCabe which I will get to shortly. Kubina is an offensive defenseman, there is no hiding that, however, this season Kubina has proven he's a little more reliable defensively than most once thought. With the Buffalo disaster aside, which by the McCabe took the brunt if not all of the blame for, wrongfully I might add, Kubina has been a pretty steady guy back there with Kaberle at his side. Kubina leads all Toronto defensemen, physically speaking, with 28 hits. He also leads the team in blocked shots with 39. Kubina's giveaway to takeaway ratio is also 11:9. I expect the PK to take a hit. And I didn't think it was possible. I hate to be repetitious, but, Peca would have been really nice to have right about now, that's for sure.

Now, back to McCabe. With Kubina out of the lineup, we all know what that means. McCabe is going to take all of Kubina's ice time and be reunite with Kaberle in almost every scenario. I know Leaf fans, but hold your collective groans because this also means our good friend Anton Stralman will make his return to the lineup. I expect McCabe to do better than his worst critic expects but significantly worse than his greatest fan. As always, I expect him to land right in the middle which is quite typical on a team that has been the model of mediocrity for the last 40 years. McCabe is surprisingly only 4th on the team in giveaways with Kaberle leading the team in giveaways with 20 and having only 4 take aways to counter it with. My theory on this is that Kaberle has been playing with Kubina, a right handed shot, and has been forced to throw pucks closer to the middle on the break out. It's a pretty weak theory, but we'll see how things go with McCabe. McCabe also has 22 blocked shots, only 17 fewer than Kubina in 7 fewer games.

Personally, if I was the coach of this team, I think I would try and pair Stralman with Kaberle, McCabe with White, while alternating McCabe and Stralman, and Gill with Wozniewski. Stralman may be a rookie, but I've got a feeling about him. He has 3 giveaways in 7 games, not bad for a rookie, but at the same time, has 4 take aways which I believe is very good. I think a mistake Maurice might make with McCabe is overplaying him and going back to 3 years ago when McCabe was playing 30 minutes a game, rivaling Pronger and Lidstrom a top the league. McCabe can't be on the ice for that long. He takes things upon himself and it could see him add to his giveaway totals.

As you all know, I'm a believer of blowing this team up and letting guys like our friend Stralman play meaningful minutes at the NHL level, however, considering that isn't in the cards for certain people who are looking for extensions, or profits, the very least one can hope for is that guys like Stralman get to play a little bit more and guys like McCabe can play a little bit less because not only does it helps them both out tremendously but ultimately the team, now, and moving forward.

Also, one last thing, Colaiacovo has been reported to have skated for 7 straight days without pain. No timetable has been set yet, but hopefully, he can replace Wozniewski as quickly as possible and start dishing out some pain to some of our friends.

Until next time, don't give MLSE your money. It's not worth it.

"I've got it!! We'll play the games wait for it... ON TV!!

2007-11-08T21:27:00.000-05:00

Well, it took over 70 years, but the Chicago Blackhawks finally got out from under their rocks and asked what the big fuss was about about that square thing that displays pictures and sounds... what do you call it again?

This week, Comcast SportsNet announced that they will air 7 Hawks home games, starting with the inter-divisional game versus the Detroit Red Wings this Sunday.

Despite this being a step in the right direction for the Blackhawks and for the fans in Chicago, I can't help but wonder a couple things:

1) What the Hell took the Blackhawks so long? I know their owner was in the later years of his life, and may he rest in piece, but surely he must've been alive when T.V. hit the market.

2) Seven games? Last I checked this isn't the original 6 anymore... every team gets to play 41 games in their arena. What are the Hawks afraid of in broadcasting the 34 other games?

But what's even more mind-boggling than the absurdity of the situation is the article in today's Chicago Sun-Times.

Apparently this Windy City reporter must've known known of this revolutionary invention either, because he makes it sound like none of the following things existed before the Hawks decided to air home games:

"Comcast SportsNet announced its coverage plans on Wednesday, and they'll be much different than what viewers have seen on the station during its coverage of road games, Jim Blaney and Steve Konroyd traditionally do their pre- and postgame shows from a studio. This time they'll do them live from the United Center.
Josh Mora will give live reports from between the benches during the game as well as some pregame player interviews from the same location. Kerry Sayers will interview celebrities in attendance throughout the telecast, and Hawks' assistant coach Ryan Stewart will communicate with the broadcast team throughout the game. A to-be-determined Hawks' player will also wear a wireless microphone throughout the game.

Comcast's intermission interview with a Hawks' player will air simultaneously on the United Center's Jumbotron for the first time, and the national anthem and pregame video introduction as well coach Denis Savard's postgame news conference will also be included in the broadcast package. The goal is to give viewers the full flavor of what it's like to attend a Hawks' home game."'

Apparently either:

a) whatever teams the Hawks are playing on the road haven't broadcast a game since the Korean War, or;

b) no one watches Chicago road games anyway (the latter part seems more believable).

All this stuff sounds pretty special, no doubt, but the author makes it sound like none of these things have ever happened in hockey broadcasting before. It's actually quite amusing. It's a treat for Hawks fans after having gone so long without home games televised, but the fact that it took the death of the owner (and I mean no offense to anyone in saying that) for Hawks management to wake up is a little pitiful. Rocky Wirtz and the Hawks took a step in the right direction this week, but they still have a long way to go.

Enjoy the game Hawks fans! It'll be... revolutionary!

Ailing Sabres Come Away with Win!

2007-11-08T11:05:00.000-05:00

The Buffalo Sabres were fortunate to walk out of HSBC Arena with a victory last night because for the majority of the game they played uninspired hockey. The Sabes were without star play maker Tim Connolly and gritty forward Adam Mair. The absences were apparent last night as the PP lacked puck possession and scoring chances, something that Connolly can provide in a flash. Buffalo earned the two points with a 2-1 OT victory over the division rival Boston Bruins last night, compliments of recent Rochester call up Clarke MacArthur. MacArthur buried home a pass from Drew Stafford 3:16 into the extra frame. You have to commend Lindy for giving his young guys a shot in crucial situations. MacArthur has been great in Rochester this season and hopefully he can provide a much needed spark and help this team turn things around and get back into the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

Without a doubt the best Sabre on the ice yesterday was Paul Gaustad. He was determined to walk out with two points and let his game speak for itself. Paul was instrumental on shutting down the B's PP and creating havoc for Chara and the other Bruin defenders. If you are unsure as to whom the captain should be, look no further than "Goose". The fans know it, let's just hope the coaches take notice and make it happen. Lydman and Hecht are solid players, yet lack the ability to speak up and get the most out of each individual player. Plain and simple, Paul will do whatever it takes to win.

Ryan Miller was good in goal tonight earning his fifth win of the season by turning away 25 shots. Due to the Sabres adopting a 1-3-1 system scoring chances were kept to a minimal and while it did not make for the most entertaining game, they came away with the points so I expect to see more of this moving forward.

The Sabres will look to continue their success on Friday night when they face their rivals the Toronto Maple Leafs. Expect the building to be rocking, especially considering that both teams need these points desperately. It will be interesting to see how the Leafs bounce back from the performance against Ottawa the other night. I expect an inspired effort from the Leafs and it will take everything Buffalo has in the tank to earn another victory. It is unknown if Spacek, Pratt, and Connolly will be available for the game. Mair will be out so you can expect to see Clarke MacArthur again for Buffalo. Should be a great game, get your popcorn ready!

Leafs Lose To Sens, Look Ahead For Hope

2007-11-08T01:54:00.000-05:00

After the Leafs looked to start off the week with a bang... they did just the opposite. The defense was sloppy and once again, did not care for goaltender Vesa Toskala. The offense was also lackluster and Toronto did not generate much in terms of anything really. Give Ottawa two points and leave ScotiaBank Place... job well done, boys.

Up next, the Buffalo Sabres. A inner-division rival club who has our number in the recent years, but with the Sabres struggling does this put an end to era that was? Or will the Sabres lay waste of the Buds and use them to break-out of their slump? Well, one thing to definitely count on is Andrew Raycroft starting after Vesa started 9 games in a row. And if memory serves correctly, the Sabres love to play Raycroft....yikes.

Next on the list is original six foe, New York Rangers. Keywords: Lundqvist, two shutouts in a row, Avery, Jagr, Rangers comeback. Watch out, Leafs. The Rangers are indeed a top conference team and they'll be looking to get back up there, the Leafs will have to be on their A-game and playing two nights in a row should help that...seeing on how we need a jump start to actually play a solid game.

So far, the Leafs are losing the games that ultimately led them to their demise last season....lose important games and miss the playoffs by a couple of points. If they want to attain that feat, then smarten the F up and start backing your goaltender Toskala, because he is playing very solid. Frankly, I'm extremely tired of seeing Vesa get ripped apart by laughable defense and lackluster effort by his teammates.

With all this said, I'm gonna try to stay as positive as possible this upcoming weekend, two teams, one on the up rise and one on the verge of breaking-out... play your cards rights, boys.

Lindros to Retire, Is He a HOFer?

2007-11-07T20:56:00.000-05:00

Eric Lindros is set to announce his retirement Thursday, which has raised the question of whether or not he is good enough to be in the Hall of Fame. The debate has become heated, with pro-Lindros vouchers claiming that his stats are better than Cam Neely's, who is in the Hall of Fame. I hope he doesn't get in for one main reason, respect. I have very little respect for Mr. Lindros, and I believe that people in the Hall of Fame should be the most revered and respected in the game of hockey. Eric Lindros doesn't fit the bill.

Eric Lindros was a great player in his prime, and did some good work for the players' association, but is that really enough to get him into the hall? It's not just the way he treated the people of Quebec, it's mainly about the image for me. If Lindros was a model captain and a well respected player, that may have put him over the top like it did with Neely, but he wasn't. He was great in his time, but did nothing else to help the way people viewed him. Image is a key factor in getting into the hall of fame, and it's not a factor that bodes well for him.

Does he deserve to become a HOFer? No way. Will he become one? That's another story. If I was in charge you know what the answer would be, but unfortunately I'm not, so don't rule it out. For the integrity of the Hall of Fame I hope they do not allow Eric Lindros to become a member, they should instead induct a deserving non-member such as Pavel Bure, or Glenn Anderson. It will be an interesting situation when it comes around, but we don't have to worry about it for a few years, so lets just let it go for now...

Youtube Video of the Day: Stevens Tribute

2007-11-07T14:33:00.000-05:00

Here is my form of a tribute to probably the greatest hitter of our lifetime. It's a shame to see him retire (ironically from complications of concussions), but he's already been voted into the hall of fame, giving him the respect he deserves. Great at delivering a shoulder to the head cleanly, which is a tough skill to master. Now lets all enjoy some of his work:

Leafs Lose Big Time to Sens, but Need to Look on the Bright Side

2007-11-06T23:07:00.000-05:00

The Ottawa Senators are a very good team, there's no doubt about that at all, but the Leafs and their fans should not hang their heads low. The reality is that these are the types of teams that they have to beat in order to go anywhere at playoff time. Now don't get me wrong, this isn't your average Leaf-hate blog, I have absolutely no issue with them. As a third party, this is just my opinion of them.

They have talent and promise, but they certainly aren't reaping the benefits of it. A 5-1 loss to a great team is nothing to be proud of, or to be overly upset about. They got beat quite easily, which was expected (admit it Leafers, it really was), this just sets the bar, giving them something to strive for.

The Leafs should not look on the bad points of this game, they are clearly a less talented team than the Senators, but they should instead look at what they did good, because in order for them to beat them they need to single out what they did good, and exploit it. Whether it's out hustling, or just finding a set play which plays to their advantage, that's for the Leafs coaching staff to figure out.

It is not impossible for the Maple Leafs to beat the Senators, although after tonights' game it sure looks that way. They need to realize that, and they shouldn't hang their heads low. They did what they were expected to do, and that was lose to them. the really good teams bounce back from this, and not only learn from their mistakes, but they take the good points out of the game, and use it next time! That's the beauty of early season games, there's plenty of time to improve.

I believe that a quote from the great philosopher Confucius sums this loss up extremely well, "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." The Leafs shouldn't hang their heads because they failed, they just need to get a new game plan and keep on trying, because nobody will ever remember losing to the Senators in an early regular season game, they will remember winning the big game, and that is ultimately the Stanley Cup. I truly hope they take my advice, so I can stop hearing their whining...

Forsberg Done?

2007-11-05T19:50:00.000-05:00

Just a short blog to tell everyone what they've probably already heard. It appears that Peter Forsberg has suffered another injury setback to his career. With the news coming in the last week that he would be skating with Sweden's national team, rumors began to pick up again as to when and where he would return to the NHL. However, TSN has reported that he skated for only an hour before having to step off the ice, once again experiencing trouble with his problematic ankle. I don't know what to say about this, other than that I saw it coming.

Crucial Week Ahead For The Maple Leafs

2007-11-04T21:23:00.000-05:00

After defeating the Montreal Canadiens by a score of 3-2, the Leafs demonstrated a better club than previous games, but still sloppy. Let's not forget a horrible breakdown in the last 5 minutes of play versus the Devils; who took us apart with a shorthanded goal followed by another tally in just over a minutes time. So what club will show up Tuesday night in Ottawa? Well for starters, it better be a more than decent one because first of all, the Sens are 11-1-0, and on top of that we have the Sabres and Rangers to deal with in the same week.

This week will be an important one for the Leafs, they can get some character and respectability back by attaining 2 out of 3 with victories or better yet... 3 out of 3. Possible? Yes. Likely? No. Not with this club, the defensive woes are so mind numbingly obvious it pains me to say we'll be in over our heads to keep up with the Sens and Sabres... not to mention an uprising Rangers club ( who didn't think they'd come back... it was only a matter of time).

To aid our blue and white troops, one familiar face, followed by a new one, are set to join the team. The first being one of my favorite Maple Leafs... the crafty Kyle Wellwood is slated for a Tuesday return, but it's not set in stone. ''Welly'' will help the PP... immensely. Reason being is his play making abilities. Wellwood gives us a 3rd option on the PP and it's going to be duely noted and appreciated. PM can now use the Kaberle to McCabe one-timer ( when he's back of course), the Sundin shoot-from-the-circle technique, and now, Wellwood pass from the crease to Blake, seeing on how Tucker is injured.

The other trooper is one by the name of Mark Bell. After receiving a 15-game suspension, Mark Bell has finally got the chance for his Leafs debut, and who better then against the Sens, heh? Start it off with a goal, please! Bell will bring some much needed defensive play followed with some strong checking and even some offensive flair. But the question pertains; will Bell return to his 45 point, 25 goal self? Or will he turn out to be a 20 point guy who doesn't bring much expect for hitting and a 2.1 million dollar salary? All to be answered shortly.

Stay tuned, friends. It's sure to be a whopper of a week for this Leafs club. I leave you with this video to get your adrenaline rushing for the upcoming week. News Team! AAASSSEEMMBBLLEEE!

Arbour Day

2007-11-04T13:49:00.001-05:00

Al Arbour day, that is. Big Al made his comeback to the Islanders bench for his 1,500th game and a roaring ovation from Islander faithful.

Big Al came back for 1 night only and was rewarded in a huge way. By the fans, the coaches, and the players who gave him a 3-2 come from behind victory over the Penguins.

Al Arbour, also known as "Radar", led the Islanders to 4 Stanley Cups and retired as a legend with 1,499 games behind the Isles bench, the most by any coach for one team. Ted Nolan brought up the idea to Garth Snow, Islanders GM, and then they both pitched the theory to owner Charles Wang. With all three in agreement, Al Arbour made is triumphant return.

The Islanders responded in a huge way, storming out of the gate early in the game, only to have Ryan "I love playing the Islanders" Malone bust their balloon with the first goal of the game. Things didn't get much better for the boys in Orange and White when another shot was buried behind DiPietro by rookie Tyler Kennedy (...Kennedy.. sorry, wrestling reference!). Congrats to Mr. Kennedy on his 1st career NHL goal, one of many to come.

Trent Hunter finally broke through, igniting the still excited Isles fans, cutting the score in half. A surprise show... Miro Satan finally scored. Twice! The arena literally exploded on the final buzzer, but the night wasn't over yet. Not just one banner was lowered that night, but two. Al Arbour, 1,500 games coached. Al Arbour, 740 wins. Al Arbour, the man who said it best...

"I'm Al Arbour and I'm an Islander."

You always will be, Radar.

Side note: Rick DiPietro was stabbed in the eye by Sidney Crosby's stick and didn't come back to the game. Doctors say he is okay, but may miss a game or two. Arbour will have his 740 win banner raised later in the season.

Side note 2: I hate Ryan Malone!! He has the Isles number memorized and on freaking speed dial...

Youtube Video of the Day: Mic'd Up

2007-11-03T18:28:00.000-04:00

Reason number one to make it mandatory for players to be mic'd up at all times. This classic video of Bryan Trottier and Kevin Stevens harassing Bryan Bellows has been around for a while now, but it never seems to get old. Imagine all of the classic moments like this we are missing by not having mandatory mic...ing? I have some more examples in the coming days why we should have players being mic'd mandatory. WARNING: some pretty bad language here, so anyone with virgin ears, don't watch the vid.

The Savior

2007-11-02T15:49:00.000-04:00

2006: They haven't made the playoffs since 1997. They have a no-name defense and no depth on offense. Starting goalie Kevin Weekes goes down with a groin injury. Only a 7th round, unproven, unexperienced Swede can fill that spot.

2007: A disappointing season that included a 9 game losing streak and an awful record. They were guaranteed to miss the playoffs before the season was halfway through. That once-heralded Swede seemed to have lost it.

2008: After offseason signings, things looked headed downhill. The 2-5-1 record do nothing to help the spirits of the team, the fans and the city. Looks like those same old Rangers.

Similar story lines...

Same results...

2006: He lifts his team to their first playoff berth in 9 years. Becomes a Vezina finalist in his rookie year. 30 wins. 2.18 GAA. His team was picked to go 30th. Not even close.

2007: Picked up his game. Best goalie on the best team during the second half. Another Vezina final. Another playoffs berth. A sweep and two wins against Buffalo to go with it. 37 wins. 2.34 GAA. 5 shutouts. Yeah, the critics shut up.

2008: Hes good when times are bad. Unstoppable when they are good. 12 games. 3 shutouts. 1.67 GAA. .937 SV%. And hes 5-6. The Rangers were 2-5-1. He had a shut-out. In a shootout loss. Consistent 2 goal efforts. Consistent losses. Hold down the fort until times get better on offense. They do. Win 3 out of last 4. Give up only 5 goals in those games. 2 shutouts. Has given up more than 2 goals in only 3 games. Shooting for another Vezina final? Try Vezina winner. Try Stanley Cup Champion. Try.....

THE SAVIOR

Youtube Video of the Day: Battle of the Lightweights

2007-11-02T10:13:00.000-04:00

What are the odds that Daniel Briere gets into a fight? What about Mike Comrie? Pretty slim, eh? Now what are the odds that they get in a fight at the same time, against eachother? Well believe it or not it happened!

Leafs vs. Devils : A Guaranteed Victory

2007-11-01T22:52:00.000-04:00

Yes. That's right. I guarantee a victory tomorrow. Why? Because of Eggshmeg's hurtful words! :(On a serious note, tomorrow's match-up will be at 7 PM ET in New Jersey, not that it makes a difference. There's nobody in the arena anyway, we can pretty much call this a home game for the Leafs... unfortunately.)

The Devils have been off to a slow start, they have been horrendous in turnovers and Martin Brodeur is even struggling. But after a promising 6-1 drubbing of the Lighting, thinks may be on the up rise. Zach Parise has proved so far this season he was no aberration last season and he's been, in my opinion, their best player so far. Let's remember how much trouble the Devils gave us last season as well, most notably the one where they literally beat us in one period for a depressing 6-5 victory in the shootout.

The Leafs will most likely start Andrew Raycroft tomorrow. After Toskala let in 4 goals on 12 shots ( not his fault, his defense was pathetic), Paul Maurice will be looking to spark the line-up. After a 7-1 defeat to the lowly Capitals, the Leafs have been undergoing intense practices to get back in shape, but so far this season, that has proved to be ineffective. This weekend is a perfect, and I mean perfect chance for the Leafs to show who they really are and what kind of damage they can do. Two wins against the Devils and the Canadiens would be a nice message, and might spark this team up for the very tough schedule that proceeds. Quite simply, if they lose these two... they are pretty much screwed barring a miracle.

The Leafs can't wait for the Devils tomorrow. They're coming off a big win and they'll rip us apart if we do. We have to send the message, not them. Most importantly, the defense HAS to help the goaltender. This has cost us more then a few games already. Instead of huddling up in front of your goalie and letting the shooters get quality, from the circle shots; force them on the outside, make them battle in the corners and not get those golden opportunities in front of the net. Also, our defenders have to start leaving one man in front of the net at all times when in our zone, our D tends to chase the man which leaves the goaltender wide open and vulnerable.

We can win this, we just need to play with some intelligence for more then one period.

Youtube Video of the Day: Eddie the Eagle

2007-10-31T14:33:00.000-04:00

Ah Eddie Belfour, we hardly knew ye. How's life in Sweden?