Since hockey cannot survive without its fans, we think it is important to let the NHL and NHLPA know exactly what some of their fans are thinking.  Agree or disagree with either point of view?  Comments welcome.

First up -  Stan Rayner:

Dear Illegal Curve,

It’s sure a good thing the NHL players formed a union. That representation and protection will ensure that they will not work in an unventilated, unheated, unhealthy environment, and that they will not be exploited by unfair labour practices. Nor will they be paid below the minimum wage of ten dollars an hour.

What’s that you say? Oh, you didn’t realize I was being sarcastic. They’re only after fair value for what they provide, you say. For what they can get for themselves – just like anyone would, right? And their careers only last five years or so on the average, so take it easy on them, right?

Well, on that last point, let’s use the five-year figure. The average NHL player’s salary is around 2.4 million dollars a year. Let’s remove the high paid players from the discussion,players like Sidney Crosby and Ilya Kovalchuk. Boy, do they need a union! So take the real high earners out of the picture, the comrades making six to eight million a year, and maybe the average salary goes down to a mere 1.5 million a year for those five years for our hypothetical, average, NHLPA, union member. Say he sends 400 grand to the tax man and 100 grand to the agents and financial advisors. Okay, there’s a million dollars a year left. Now, our man can surely live on 500 grand a year, can’t he? I think so. Especially since the median Canadian household income is one-tenth of that amount and somehow, everyone else is surviving. So our average union man can save 500 grand a year – invest it or simply lock it up at a fixed rate of interest. After those five years have gone by, he and his family have a tidy sum of 2.5 million in hand(plus interest) and no debts. Plus a nice little pension and other benefits from the union and league.

Let’s see: you’re thirty to thirty-five years old, you have no debts, you have two and a half million dollars in hand. What are the possibilities? Well, they’re pretty much endless. Imagine an average person in the real world, someone who might be able to put away 5 thousand dollars a year if he or she really budgeted well. After forty years of work – if he or she was able to sustain a career for that long, our man and woman on the street has a nest egg of 200,000 and, if lucky, a pension of around three or four thousand a month.

This is not after five years, but after forty.

And let’s not forget what our magnificent union members do for their riches: play a game with sticks and pucks. Stay in classy hotels; see the country. Well, why do they get paid so much? It’s not their fault. It’s entertainment, right? It’s the thrill of competition that we get to share, right? Absolutely. No argument there. But how much is such entertainment really worth to us? To society? Why are they in such a position to command and receive such obscene salaries?  We all know the answer. Because we pay so much for tickets to see them. ”We” being the fans. Because we pay so much for hot dogs and peanuts and slices of pizza and cups of beer when we go to the games. Because we pay so much for NHL Center Ice hockey channels on television. Because we pay so much for hoodies and T-shirts with team logos and players’ names on them, and buy so many of them. Because advertisers pay so much to interrupt play-by-play broadcasts of games with soul-destroying commercials, forcing spectators to sit dumbly and wait during TV time-outs when they are at games.

It really makes a person sick.  Is there any way to change the situation for the better? To get people to wake up and come to their senses? What can we do? We fans?

Here’s a suggestion. Let’s cancel our cable channels, say for one month, if and when the players and the league come back.  All of us. Just one month. We can do it. And let’s not buy any NHL gear at all this year for Christmas presents. None. Just this once.  And, if you were planning to buy a ticket to a game, don’t – just for the first month they come back. Let’s send a message, the only way we can. It’s the only way the interests of the fans and the game will even be noticed by anyone.

The whole union idea really does make a person ill in this context. The egotistical Donald Fehr is absolutely the worst person for this situation, for this game. Just look at baseball, where he came from. How long does a good player stay on one team in the major leagues? For how long can the hometown fans follow and support their team?  With the same core-group of players on it to cheer? As soon as a star emerges on a team, he’s gone somewhere else, to the highest bidder – who is probably New York. Great for the players, you say. They’re free to get what the market will bear. And what about the fans, the hometown people who want to get behind their team, and the fans who watch from a distance who want to support their favourite team? Is this good for them? For the game? This is where the NHL has already started to head  in recent years and probably Fehr will take it even farther in that direction.

If only the NHL teams would share revenue, Fehr and the NHLPA say. But you shouldn’t have more than 50% of revenue say the teams.

This whole ”percentage of revenue” debate leaves me rather cold. It really must mean very little to a player, in practical terms, as does a salary cap when you think about it. When a player negotiates a new contract, he and his agent decide they’re going to ask for a certain sum, say 4 million a year for three years, something like Nik Antropov’s contract with the Jets. Now, although I’ve never been invited to sit in on any negotiating sessions between a player and GM, it’s unlikely a player’s pitch is based on the overall team salary expenses, or on the percentage of his team’s overall revenue that his contract might represent. He just wants 4 million a year. Maybe he settles for 3.75. Maybe he’s offered a two-year deal instead of three at 4 million. Maybe the team can’t or won’t offer him enough to satisfy him, because of their budget projections or salary cap or how they assess the value of the player. But let not our tears flow so quickly for the player. He doesn’t have to accept what is being offered. He can go to another team – because free agency  is available to him after he’s made his mark, after seven years in the league, in his late twenties. Surely there will be another team that will come up with the four million a year. Won’t there? Just ask Ryan Suter or Ollie Jokinen or Zach Parise. And who really cares about a career-long commitment to a city and a team, anyway? Why should a player…blah, blah, blah.

Enough already.

As I say, it really makes me sick. And here’s the sickest part about the whole union aspect of the NHL players’ world. They are so proud and loyal to the union cause that they think nothing of selfishly grabbing opportunities to play for teams in the AHL, the KHL or other European leagues – taking jobs away from far less fortunate players. Players that are not as skilled as themselves; players who have worked just as hard as them, or harder, for a contract with one of those teams, making only a small fraction of what an NHL player earns. Our NHL heroes think little of bumping them out of their jobs. Ah, you gotta love unions.

Sincerley,

Stan Rayner

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Next up K.N.:

Stan Rayner’s commentary on Thursday was more right than he knows. It is a very good thing NHL players formed a union—a good thing for the owners.

Thanks to the NHLPA, the owners can indulge in restraint of trade that would be, in the absence of collective bargaining, absolutely illegal. If owners want to impose limitations on player compensation and movement—for example, the draft, ELCs, RFA status, the salary cap—then they have a legal obligation to collectively bargain in good faith. That “in good faith” part isn’t just my airy-fairy kumbaya feelings; it’s part of the National Labor Relations Act, and “take it or leave it bargaining” is considered to be a violation.

Without a union with which to negotiate a CBA, without limitation on player movement and player compensation, the owner’s impressively bad decision-making would have no limits. They’ve managed, so they say, to get themselves into financial trouble very quickly after a CBA they imposed on the NHLPA after the NHLPA’s head was (deservedly) deposed only seven years ago. Imagine how quickly they’d bankrupt themselves (or “bankrupt” themselves; I wish more numbers were public in this mess) in a free market. The owners should thank God for the NHLPA and the Non Statutory Labor Exemption every day.

Should the players be grateful, too? Maybe not. In a free market, they players would, collectively, be making a lot more money. How much more? Tyler Dellow puts his estimate at 70+% of revenues, based on the mostly free market of the English Premier League. Gary Bettman said that before the cap, NHL teams spent, collectively, about 75% of revenues on salaries. Absent the NHLPA, and thus absent a CBA, costs would presumably revert to that 70%-75% level, at least until some of the worst-managed and -located franchises were contracted. There would be some downsides for the players in this scenario—eventual contraction, and it’s possible that in a CBA-free, unrestrained market, some fringe players might find themselves signing non-guaranteed contracts or contracts for less than the current minimum salary. As a group, however, the players lose much more by being union members than the owners do by accepting the union as a negotiating partner.

So why do the players have a union that allows them to be massively underpaid compared to “natural” (free market) compensation levels? Maybe because they care more about playing hockey than about squeezing out every last nickel of compensation. Maybe because they, or at least their advisers, have heard of the “good old days” of the NHL, when owners used the reserve clause (later called monopolistic, conspiratorial, and illegal by the courts) to deny players fair compensation. Maybe because they took Bettman seriously (more fools them) when he talked about a “partnership” after the last lockout. Or maybe they’re just dumb cattle.

Stan Rayner seems to think that unfairness is only unfairness if it happens in an unventilated, unheated, unhealthy environment. You know what, Stan? “Good” conditions are not necessarily “fair” conditions, and even if all the coal miners in Kentucky made $10,000,000 per annum and worked in fields of wildflowers with babbling brooks and tuneful songbirds, they would still deserve—and they would still have a legal right to create—a union to represent their interests. They would deserve it even more so if management were attempting to impose rollbacks on existing contracts at all the mines, even the profitable ones.

Stan is morally outraged that NHL players get handsomely remunerated for playing a game with sticks and pucks, staying in classy hotels, and seeing the country. Well, I think it’s a moral outrage that NHL owners get handsomely remunerated by cities, states, and provinces with tax rebates, low- or no-cost funding through government-backed bonds, and generous arena management contracts. But I put the blame for these revolting backroom deals where it belongs: on the governmental authorities who make the deals and the voters who continue to elect them. Stan should put the blame for the high salaries of the players where it belongs: on the general managers who offer the contracts and the fans who give the teams the money in the first place.

If any hockey fans are so disgusted by the idea of six hundred of the most talented and entertaining athletes in the world earning, on average and per year, as much money as Gary Bettman makes in three and a half months, then maybe they should be watching their local major junior or NCAA team. That way one can at least be sure that the players are being sufficiently exploited by management.

K.N.

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The Devils have almost completely shut down the soft spot between the circles, especially when compared to the number of goals they allowed from that same area a season ago.

Is it Lemaire’s system keeping the play on the perimeter? Or is it a matter of Martin Brodeur being a significantly better goaltender than Clemmensen and Weekes, and stopping whatever high-percentage shots the Devils are allowing?

Read the entire terrific article here.

Very good work here by Adam.  Lemaire’s ability to have his team play a style that keeps teams to the perimeter is certainly a testament to his teaching ability and his team’s willingness to buy into what he preaches.  Of course, all those Cups from Montreal and his Cup as Coach of New Jersey go a long way in providing him what that type of teaching platform.  Something tells me his players would not buy into his system as easily if not for his amazing success.

Lemaire is simply a mastermind; why do you think Team Canada named him an assistant coach for the 2010 Olympics?  No one strategizes any better than him and he is a huge asset behind the bench. 

That said, his coaching style isn’t the only one that works.  To be fair, the Devils have 0.4 less goals through 24 games this season than the team did last season under Brent Sutter.  However, it should be pointed out that the team has also scored 0.2 less goals than last season through 24 games.  Now, of course, that is still a 0.2 goal improvement in an NHL that doesn’t see many goals–but Brent Sutter is probably just as effective a head coach as Lemaire, just with a different style of coaching–both in terms of motivation and strategy.

Fans, in general, may prefer Sutter’s style to Lemaire’s, but fans of those respective teams most likely prefer winning with whatever strategy works.

Here is excerpt:

In my mind the most impactful rookie so far this season has been Michael Del Zotto of the New York Rangers. First off, being a rookie defenseman in the National Hockey League carries with it a lot more pressure than being an NHL rookie forward. There are only six defensemen on a roster per night; it is far more difficult to “hide” a defenseman against weaker competition than it is with forwards. Defense mistakes are apparent to the regular fan; forward mistakes are far less noticeable. That is what makes Michael Del Zotto’s start to the season so notable.

Read the entire article here.

Here is an excerpt:

Richard Pollock: Atlantic Division – The toughest division in the NHL is the Atlantic Division. Not only does the Atlantic include the defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins, but it also plays home to the surprising New York Rangers, the always reliable New Jersey Devils and the Philadelphia Flyers. Sure, the weak link is the lowly New York Islanders but the Islanders, with youngster John Tavares leading the way, are not an easy victory anymore.

Collectively, so far this season, the top four teams in the Atlantic Division have scored 31 more goals than they have allowed. Additionally, the entire division is currently sitting twelve games above the .500 level.

Read the entire article here.

• The Colorado Avalanche are 28th in the NHL with 34 shots against per game
• The Toronto Maple Leafs, on the other hand, actually sit 11th in the NHL with 28.6 shots against per game
• The Buffalo Sabres have been the best team at five-on-five play
• The Minnesota Wild, not surprisingly, has been the worst
• The Carolina Hurricanes have been the most penalized team in the NHL this season with 22.4 PIMs per game
• The least penalized team in the NHL this season has been the Nashville Predators
• The Colorado Avalanche has the most points in the NHL, yet have only outshot their opponents on one occasion
• The best shots for/shots against differntial belongs to the Chicago Blackhawks
• Nicklas Grossman of the Dallas Stars leads the NHL with a +12 rating
• Chris Pronger and Joe Corvo lead the NHL in average ice-time per game
• Not surprisingly, Alex Ovechkin has taken the most shots in the NHL
• Ryan Miller leads the NHL in save percentage for goaltenders that have played at least three games with a .940 mark
• Miller’s 1.69 G.A.A. is also top in the NHL
• San Jose has the best team face-off percentage
• Colorado has the worst team face-off percentage

Here is an excerpt of the article:

Richard Pollock: Boston Bruins – The most disappointing team this season has been the Boston Bruins. With the recent loss of both Milan Lucic and Marc Savard and the trade of Chuck Kobasew, the Bruins are now without the offensive depth they had throughout last season. Luckily for Boston fans, their team is playing in arguably the NHL’s weakest division—the Northeast Division. So, the Bruins still have a chance to win the division, but this team was supposed to be at the top of the Eastern Conference standings with the Capitals, the Flyers and the Penguins. In fact, Puck Prospectus had the Bruins ranked as the third best team in the NHL (over 100 projected points), just behind the Blackhawks and Capitals and in front of the Red Wings and Penguins. Right now, there is little chance of this team finishing that high in the standings. The Bruins will be without Savard’s 14.3 projected GVT for at least the next month and without the physical presence of Milan Lucic (projected 8.4 GVT) for about the same amount of time. Combine that with the poor early season play of Tim Thomas (.896 save percentage) and the team’s overall poor defensive play and the Bruins may be digging themselves a hole that they won’t be able to get out of.

Read the entire article here.

Looks like Al Strachan is out of the Hot Stove and into the fire.

On Tuesday, Usual Suspects received the following e-mail from Jeff Keay of CBC: “Hot Stove has a number of guest contributors who we rotate through the lineup. At this time, we’ve made the decision to take Al out of the regular rotation and to use some of the other personalities we’ve added to the broadcast over the summer.”

Translation: Strachan has been dropped from the Hockey Night In Canada segment a second time, having first been let go in 2005.

Read the entire article here.

Cannot say I am totally surprised by this announcement.  Strachan stirs the pot and doesn’t exactly apologize for it.  CBC seems okay with that sort of mindset if it brings in ratings (see: Donald S. Cherry) but generally stays far away from that type of television personality.

For all his criticisms, I do think Strachan knows the game of hockey.  For the most part, he has fairly astute comments on the games going on and the happenings around the NHL.  That said, he does have his detractors and that’s the main reason this announcement doesn’t surprise.  Remember, as Dowbiggen notes, Strachan has already been let go once by the CBC.

From a selfish perspective, I am hoping this opens the door for personalities like Eric Duhatschek to return to the Satellite Hot Stove sgement.  To be honest, I am still trying to figure out why Duhatschek was taken off in the first place.

In fact, last May I wrote a plea to the CBC to bring Eric Duhatschek back to the Hot Stove.  You can read that here.

Now many pundits felt the true test would be whether or not the crowds would keep up once the fervor of the home opener died down.  While I’m sure many expected to see a slight drop from the home opener’s sellout crowd of 17,532 the pictures from Game 2 would seem to indicate that there has been a significant drop off.  When I initially saw these pictures, I thought that perhaps fans in Phoenix, like those in other cities (I’m looking at you Toronto), spend half the period out of their seats and that since the pictures were taken a minute into the 2nd period this was the reason that the building looked half empty.

But then you see this picture that was taken from the upper bowl of Jobing.com arena at the 13:47 mark of the second period and you realize that there just wasn’t anyone at the game;

Now I am not sounding the death knell of the Yotes.  Clearly Shane Doan, who is just a tremendous player (and person) thinks a lot of Phoenix;

It’s just a special place here, and these fans really do care,” Doan said. “The whole team is just grateful for the people who do support us so passionately.”

But the question I have after seeing these pictures is, where have they all gone?  The Coyotes are going to have to continue to make major concessions to the people of Arizona to get them to come out.  Still, you would think that the second game of the season would have been a little better attended than what it appeared to be.  It should be interesting to see what the “announced crowd” will be.  Any guesses?

Update:  Announced attendance 6,899.  Dear Mama.

Update #2:  A look at all the Coyotes home games.

*Photos from Bluechipper

Here is an excerpt:

The loss of a team’s number one defenseman is always troubling; the loss of a team’s number one defenseman on a team that doesn’t really have a number two defenseman makes it all the more troubling. Last season, Andrei Markov inexplicably led the Canadiens in scoring with 64 points. (As an aside, how on earth does a defenseman lead a team in scoring? I mean, this isn’t Bobby Orr we are talking about; but I digress.) So, when Jacques Martin took the reins in Montreal, he was certainly counting on Andrei Markov to carry the majority of the weight on the team’s back-end. And why wouldn’t he? Last season, Markov led the Canadiens defenseman in power play goals (7), time on ice per game (24:37), power play time on ice per game (5:09) and was second in short-handed ice-time per game (3:10).

Read the entire roundtable here.

Well, needless to say, Gus provided our listeners with a boatload of information.  So, I figured I’d pass along a terrific article that Gus has written on the value of goaltenders who play teams on the second half of back-to-back games.

Here is an excerpt:

In 2008-09, the San Jose Sharks held on for a one point President’s Trophy win over the Bruins for regular season dominance. Boston played opponents that had games the night before 16 times sporting a record of 14-2 last season. The two losses could have cost them the President Trophy.

San Jose faced opposition that played the night before in a league high 20 games (tied with Minnesota) sporting a stellar record of 16-2-2 record. The results showed with Evgeni Nabokov (41 wins) and Niklas Backstrom (37 wins) having stellar seasons, playing almost 25% of their season against opposition playing consecutive games.

Last season, Pittsburgh played the second most (19 games) against opposition who played the night before, sporting a record of 12-4-3.

This upcoming season, the Penguins lead the NHL with 17 games played against competition playing games on consecutive nights. This figure includes three games versus the divisional rivals Flyers (which could be the difference between a Division/Conference title).

Read the entire article (it includes a chart containing all of this information) by clicking here.

It is no secret that the Edmonton side has been hampered by an anemic power play for the last several seasons. In fact, one could argue that this ineptitude cost them a Stanley Cup in 2006. This sad sack unit seems to rely on Sheldon Souray’s shot and a whole lot of prayer, because they haven’t had any fresh ideas for some time.

The display the Oilers special team (like, very special) put on last night was nothing short of atrocious. Despite the absense of the hard-shooting Souray, the Oilers still tried the extremely bland “pass it to the point and hope” play, leaving a variety of different shooters to attempt a high and wide blast on net. I tell you, there was so much perimeter play out there I thought they were buidling a road around Winnipeg.

On the 4-3 powerplay in overtime, Gagner and Cogliano were standing so far in the corner when Visnovsky was shooting I swore Pat Quinn had sent them there for misbehaviour. There is absolutely no way they were in any position to get a rebound, and even if they did, their shooting angle was so slim it would take two tubes of KY to squeak a shot into the net.

I realize that they didn’t have the complete lineup out there, but I am sure they could have come up with a few slightly better configurations. I mean, there was more passing out there than you would see on a Showcase Showdown. Pass, Pass, Pass, Turnover. Even the 4-year old sitting behind me knew better, constantly asking his daddy why they wouldn’t shoot.

Fully willing to admit that I am arm-chair coaching here, I know its much harder to get a good shot on net than it looks. That being said, I have played enough hockey to know that directing something (anything) towards the net isn’t all that hard. And this is coming from a guy who offensive skills are so limited I have trouble scoring with Winnipeg girls.

If this poor power play is allowed to continue, I guarantee it will cost the Oilers at least 6 to 8 points in the standings, and thats huge come April, when very few points typically separate 8th from 10th in the Western Conference. Lets just hope this problem works itself out before October, when these losses will really mean something.

Having only seen the Oilers on a web feed so far this pre-season, I was excited to see them live in action. They easily fulfilled the “live” part, but the “action” was pretty sparse. Despite erasing a 2-0 deficit and holding a lead for about a period, the Oilers effort last night left me a little cold.

The first period was by far the worst, with several defensive miscues and about 9 forwards who seem to think they are irreplaceable in the lineup. The first Lightning goal featured a defensive breakdown of epic proportions, as Ryan Malone was all alone in front to tuck in a rebound. The Oilers penalty kill let them down on goal #2, as Martin St. Louis wired an Alex Tanguay feed to increase the deficit to 2-0.

The Oilers clawed back with a nice power play goal by Robert Nilsson, who is making a strong case to stay on the team. Andrew Cogliano converted a partial breakaway to make it 2-2 after being sent in on a stretch pass by Denis Grebeskov. Tom Gilbert buried the third goal on a wrist shot from the high slot after a nifty feed from Gilbert Brule, who picked a covvenient time to show up.

Holding the lead until the wee moments of the game, the Oilers passed up several chances to put the Lightning away on the powerplay, and the 5 on 5 play was mediocre at best, with only Ryan Stone and Robert Nilsson putting in consistent efforts. Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers, who was a little shaky on the St. Louis goal, effectively barred the door for most of the 2nd and 3rd, twice stoning Steven Stamkos from close range.

While I will comment on the power-play in a separate post, the Oilers penalty kill is worthy of a quick mention. While the penalty killers (Brule, Stone, Moreau, Reddox and even Penner) were not terrible, they had no answer for the puck possession and quick puck movement of the Lightning forwards. Furthermore, the Oilers continued difficulty in the faceoff circle would haunt them, as an ill-timed Steve Staios penalty in the offensive zone with 10 seconds to play in OT gave the Lightning the win. A quick face off win by the Bolts, followed by a heads up pass to St. Louis for a slap shot that he simply blew by Deslauriers ended the Oilers night.

The lines and pairings broke down as follows:

Cogliano-Gagner-Nilsson- Easily the best trio of the night. Ethan Moreau started out with this unit, but was very lacklustre and was soon replaced with Robert Nilsson, who had all kinds of jump. They provided most of the offense and clearly like playing with each other. They could use a little more size on the PP, but they move the puck well and Cogliano looks better on the wing.

Penner-Schremp-Eberle- All of them did some things individually and Penner played well in 4 on 4 situations with Brule. Schremp is trying way too hard and is a little snake bit. Eberle is talented but needs a little seasoning, and Penner needs Horcoff and Hemsky.

Moreau-Brule-Stone- The second best unit on the night, for my money. Moreau was mostly invisible save for one shot he rang off the iron. Stone was the best of this trio, and plays a rough and tumble game with some offensive upside. He hits a lot and that is skill that is rare on this roster. Brule showed some flashes, but also disappeared for stretches at a time. He did have a real nice pass to Gilbert for the 3rd goal.

MacIntyre-Stortini-Reddox- The 4th line bunch didn’t see the ice much, but they competed every shift. Reddox skates miles covering for MacIntyre, who often put himself out of position trying to kill someone. Stortini did ok in spot duty at centre, and was a bit of an agitator. Reddox also saw duty on the PK, where he did quite well.

Visnovsky-Smid- The de facto first pairing, they played a pretty decent game, save for their miscue on the first goal. Smid is developing into a pretty good shut down guy, and opposing players don’t get much when he is out there. Visnovsky was his usual smooth self, and really needed some help on the PP. The only one with a clue out there.

Chorney-Gilbert- The two former collegians played pretty well together, and Gilbert is showing an increased offensive acumen. As a former Chorney fan, and recent Chorney detractor, I was very pleased with his game. He is staying within his comfort zone and is thriving as a result. Skates well and making nice passes, he also did well on the PP. I have no problem with him as the 7th defender.

Grebeshkov-Staios- Steady Steve played a solid game and was pretty physical for an exhibition game. I still like how Grebeshkov plays, but he was really fighting the puck last night, which cost the Oilers a lot of precious time on the power play.

Deslauriers- I really have no idea about goalies, but found his performance adequate. He was suspect on the two St. Louis goals, which were stoppable in my opinion. The 3rd lightning goal was redirected, and the first one he could have used some defensive help. That said, he made up for these possible miscues with several big time saves. Looks like he wants the backup job in the worst way.

Let’s just say MacLean did not react well. 

Click here to listen to the interview.

So dear IC reader, did Alex Ovechkin get robbed?  Should he have won for Best Play?

Additionally the Pittsburgh Penguins lost the Best Team award to the Los Angeles Lakers.  The other teams in the category were, Connecticut Women’s Basketball, North Carolina Men’s Basketball, Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Ok that’s it for the 2009 Illegalcurve Free Agency Liveblog, which came to you live throughout the day from North Dakota, Manitoba and Michigan.  Thanks for tuning in and we will have plenty more analysis and reactions to today’s free agent signings so keep it tuned to illegalcurve.

• 5:52pm: From Michael Russo “Agent Ron Salcer asking today for 10-year, $75 million deal for Gaborik”.
• 5:22pm: Sammy Pahlsson goes to Columbus from Chicago.  Signs for 3 yrs @ $2.65 million per year.
• 5:13pm: 2008/09 winner Bill Masterton winner Steve Sullivan re-signs with Nashville for 2 years at $3.75 million per season.
• 5:09pm: Steve Begin goes from Dallas to Boston.  Signs for 1yr @ $850K.
• 5:04pm: Wayne Gretzky is getting Canada’s highest honour — he’s being made a companion to the Order of Canada.
• 5:03pm: Ted Nolan is taking over as vice president of hockey operations for the Rochester Americans.  I always liked him as a coach.  Glad to see he is getting back into it.
• 4:56pm: Looks like the Leafs have signed Komisarek.  Bob McKenzie reports the deal is 5 years at $4.5 million.
• 4:51pm: Dreger is reporting that Toronto has made a strong pitch for Mike Komisarek.   Bob McKenzie says two other teams are taking a hard run at Komisarek.
• 4:49pm: Darren Dreger with an update on the Kubina trade to Atlanta; Toronto gets Exelby and Colin Stewart, while the Thrashers get the rights to Tim Stapleton.
• 4:48pm: Vernon Fiddler goes from Nashville to Phoenix.  Terms 2 yrs, $2.2 million.
• 4:45pm: Greg Zanon goes from Nashville to Minnesota.  Terms 3 yrs, $5.2 million.
• 4:43pm: Byron Bitz stays in Boston.  Terms not yet disclosed.
• 4:41pm: Mike Cammalleri signed a five-year deal with the Montreal Canadiens, worth $30-million.
• 4:32pm: Sounds like the Leafs have made a trade with the Thrashers.  The deal is apparently Pavel Kubina for Garnet Exelby.
• 4:24pm: Word is that Montreal is putting the finishing touches on a 5 year deal for Cammalleri.
• 4:22pm: A little Blue Jays news;  Ricky Romero pitched eight innings of four-hit ball, as the Toronto Blue Jays snapped the Tampa Bay Rays’ seven-game winning streak
• 4:13pm: TSN reports that San Jose has re-signed Kent Huskins to a 2 yr for $3.4 million and David Koci leaves Tampa for Colorado for 1yr @ $575,000.
• 4:12pm: Watching the Dale Tallon press conference.  He is saying bye bye to Marty Havlat.  Said they made the decision at 11:01.
• 4:10pm: Dave taking over for Kyle (and even though I’m in the East I will continue using CST). 
• 3:58pm: E Online reports that Mike Comrie and Hilary Duff like to fake tan.
• 3:55pm: Did Michael Farber just call Brian Burke fat?
• 3:54pm: A review of some blogs suggest Oiler fans are pissed, Vancouver and Chicago fans are pleased.
• 3:47pm: TSN reports that Ian Laperriere has signed in Philadelphia, while it was the Rangers rather than the Oilers who offered Chris Neil a 4-year deal. Pierre McGuire thinks the Habs fans will quickly grow to hate Hal Gill.
• 3:45pm: The Penguins have signed Mike Rupp, while the Canadiens have signed Hal Gill. A worthy replacement for Komisarek.
• 3:44pm: The live blog was interrupted by a telemarketer, calling on behalf of the ND Police Association (or something). Caller: The ND Police Assoc. would appreciate your help. Kyle- No thanks. Caller: Well, the money goes to find missing kids. Kyle: Don’t look at me, I don’t have them. Caller: Well sir, we also do the Meth is Death campaign, can we count on you for $12? Kyle- No way, take it out of my speeding tickets. Caller: Thanks for your time…
• 3:40pm: McGuire reports that the Panthers have also signed goaltender Jacob Markstrom.
• 3:36pm: Bob McKenzie says that offers are not flooding in for Heatley, so it might be down to the Oilers and Sens for the enigmatic winger. Has the trade request backfired on the Heatley camp?
• 3:35pm: Scott Clemmensen has signed with the Panthers and its believed that the Oilers have offered 4 years to Chris Neil, and the Leafs have offered 3 years.
• 3:29pm: The panel feels that Toronto’s team toughness will keep the fans entertained until Burke can build a winner.
• 3:22pm: Adam Pardy has re-signed with the Flames.
• 3:17pm: TSN reports that the Flames have $21.7 million tied up in 4 defenders.
• 3:11pm: The Khabiboulin deal is done, 4 years for $15 million.
• 3:07pm: Who is the better speaker, Bouwmeester or Sutter?
• 3:05pm: Is this the quietest presser ever?
• 3:05pm: The guys are talking like the Khabiboulin deal is done, and they cut to the Bouwmeester press conference in Calgary. Sutter looks like he just jumped off the tractor to come in to town.
• 3:01pm: McKenzie reports that Nikolai Khabiboulin is close to going to Edmonton.
• 3:00pm: Pierre McGuire says that Jim Rutherford is a gentleman, and the rest of the guys weren’t sure why Cole wouldn’t sign before.
• 2:55pm: Bob McKenzie reports that Erik Cole is close to re-signing a 2-year deal with Carolina.
• 2:51pm: Just heard that Boucher has signed in Philly, and TSN reports that the Oilers have made an offer to Chris Neil (as have the Leafs).
• 2:49pm: Bob McKenzie FINALLY has something. Jaro Spacek has signed with the Montreal Canadiens, as per the Boston Globe. A three year deal worth $11.5 million.
• 2:47pm: In addition to pucks, I have no less than 15 hockey sticks in my basement, including one with a straight blade, signed by Jay Bouwmeester.
• 2:46pm: Colton Orr is interviewed, giving a shout out to Winnipeg.
• 2:38pm: Scott Niedermayer on the line, suggesting the Vancouver never really factored into the equation. He interviews like a consummate professional.
• 2:34pm: Do the recent signings in the Northwest necessitate an overpay by the Oilers for a player? Should they pull the Heatley deal off the table?
• 2:29pm: The inane banter is interesting for a while, but its tough to fill up a show AND be entertaining when nothing much is going down.
• 2:24pm: I only have American beer on Canada Day. Will I be ex-communicated? Is this even allowed? Can I have it blessed by another Canadian? Thoughts?
• 2:23pm: Is using your money to re-sign your core players a better idea than spending money on new guys?
• 2:23pm: Dave Hodge notes that you never hear from the Sharks on free-agent day.
• 2:22pm: The guys are talking about winning by losing, with reference to the large albatross type contracts out there right now.
• 2:17pm: Joel Ward has re-signed in Nashville.
• 2:16pm: Gino and Pierre were wondering how hurt Gaborik really was during his Minnesota days. Will their be a new injury protocol in town?
• 2:11pm- I could really use a butler or assistant. The juice fridge is a loooooooong ways away.
• 2:06pm- Aaron Rome agrees to a deal with the Canucks, and Bob McKenzie says he has nothing.
• 2:05pm- Darren Dreger reports that Scott Niedermayer has agreed to a 1-year, $6 million dollar deal in Anaheim. What about Rob? What about Rob indeed…
• 2:04pm: I don’t hang out in my basement that much (I attend hockey games in real life). I have a ton of pucks. Where the heck did I get them all?
• 2:01pm- Pretty good action so far. Lots of interesting dynamics created with the signings. The TSN pity party for Edmonton continues, as does the speculation.
• 1:57pm: Farhan Lalji reports that with the Sedins signing, the Luongo extension is likely imminent. He says to expect Pyatt, Schneider and Hansen to be moved.
• 1:56pm: Donald Brashear has signed with the New York Rangers, likely a replacement for the departed Colton Orr.
• 1:54pm: Mike Knuble has signed with the Washington Capitals. Pierre loves it. Big body presence!
• 1:53pm: More talk on the shift of power in the North West. As an aside, what are people doing for Canada Day? Anyone sitting in their basement?
• 1:46pm: TSN reports about $47 million committed so far. The panel also wonders if Edmonton will have interest in one of Chicago’s goalies? What about Clemmensen?
• 1:45pm: An update from Edmonton, where Rishaug is reporting on player reaction to Roloson’s departure.
• 1:45pm: Steve Montador has signed with Buffalo on a 2-year deal as TSN comes back from break.
• 1:42pm: Watching, waiting and anticipating right now. Lots of speculation, but a small lull in the action. What does Edmonton do now? Who is running things in Toronto with Brian Burke in Sweden?
• 1:37pm: I like the moves made by Tampa and Florida so far. Solid hockey moves that will improve their clubs, and to reasonable terms as well.
• 1:35pm: Why will the TSN guys not drop the “Edmonton is a poisoned market” meme? Is Edmonton any worse than Calgary or Buffalo?
• 1:32pm: Dwayne Roloson is on TSN, saying that Islanders had offered the two year deal that he wanted.
• 1:31pm: Kyle is back, so I’m tossing the live blog back to him.  In the meantime, Neil put together a little sheet of the pre-free agency cap numbers. You can access them here.
• 1:27pm: McGuire suggests Colby Armstrong would look good in Toronto–he is the player rumored to be going the other way in the Kubina deal. I’d really like that move if I was a Leafs fan.
• 1:24pm: Tomas Kopecky also heads to Chicago, according to Craig Custance.  Waiting on details.
• 1:23pm: Why didn’t Edmonton make a pitch for Craig Anderson?
• 1:22pm: Dwayne Roloson leaves Edmonton and signs on the Island.  It’s two-year deal, $5 million.  Says something about their confidence in DiPietro!!!!!!!! For over the next decade…
• 1:18pm: Completely agree with Pierre McGuire on Saku Koivu.  He’s been disrespected and deserves better.
• 1:12pm: Ty Conklin signs two-year deal, $2.6 million with Blues.
• 1:11pm: The Canucks have made an offer for Scott Niedermayer.
• 1:09pm: Cammalleri apparently coveted by Leafs, Sens and Rangers.
• 1:05pm: Lightning sign Matt Walker to 4-year deal, $6.8 million.  Chicago will easily replace his services on the back-end.
• 1:04pm: Why would Detroit have to answer?  Detroit’s fine.
• 1:01pm: Darren Dreger says Hossa to Chicago for apparently 12 years!?!?!?!?!?!  Is this real? Even for the $5 million cap hit.  Can’t be true can it?
• 12:57pm: Craig Anderson to Avs, confirmed by Dater.  Anaylsis is a little bit below.
• 12:56pm: By the way, we are also twittering the day away.  Add us here.
• 12:55pm: Waiting for details on the Hossa to Chicago deal.  Still nothing out yet…
• 12:49pm: IllegalCurve.com Radio Show note.  Due to the Holiday Wednesday, we are on the air from 9pm-10pm Eastern Time.  So, instead of the usual two hour slot, we are only going an hour tonight.  No worries though, we are going to breakdown all the day’s signings and take your calls.  Read more about IllegalCurve.com Radio here.
• 12:48pm: Hossa to Chicago a done deal?  Apparently so.  Don’t really get this signing but I’m waiting for term and cost.
• 12:46pm: Booth gets $4.25 million average per season. Good deal for both sides.
• 12:45pm: Panthers have reportedly agreed to a six-year deal with David Booth.  I love David Booth’s game.  He’s lightning quick and has great hands.  The Panthers did well to lock him up long-term.  Will get the price posted when we find out.
• 12:42pm: Craig Anderson is apparently close to two-year deal with Colorado.  If true, this is a great move for Colorado.  He’s a big upgrade over their tandem from last season and was one of the more underrated netminders in the NHL last season.  Whether he can shoulder the load, is another story, but we’ll soon see.
• 12:41pm: Pavel Kubina has been traded to Atlanta.  No word on the return but, so long as they didn’t take much money back, the open cap space is a huge plus.
• 12:35pm: Couple rumors. Craig Anderson to Colorado (Adrian Dater) and Pavel Kubina traded (Damien Cox).  We’re waiting to hear word on both.
• 12:29pm: US team gets some face-time now.  This will be a good development year for Team USA, but they just aren’t talented enough, in my opinion, to compete with Canada, Russia and Sweden.
• 12:27pm: Team Canada talk takes over for a while.  Nice change of analyzing actual superstars instead of the Ben Walter trade.
• 12:17pm: Gino Reda smells nice according to Pierre.  On that note, I’ve met Gino before and don’t remember him smelling nice.
• 12:16pm: Pierre finally makes some sense of the six minute analysis of the Colton Orr signing. Save me…
• 12:12pm: TSN says that Colton Orr has signed a 4-year, $4 million deal with the Maple Leafs. Apparently he was coveted around the league, give Orr’s agent props for this one.  A four-year deal for a fighter is nice term.
• 12:07pm: Reminder that the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show is tonight from 8pm-10pm Eastern time.  We are hoping to have Bob McKenzie on the show.
• 12:04pm: Pierre calls for an NHL team back in Winnipeg. My day is now complete. Pierre, I heart you.
• 12:03pm: If you missed it, Radek Dvorak re-signed with Florida for two years, $3.4 million.
• 12:02pm: Richard here. I’m filling in for Kyle for the next 30 mins while he runs an errand.
• 11:52am- Please hold briefly while I run to the office to let the cleaners in.
• 11:51am- Ryan Rishaug notes that the Oilers priority is likely a goalie right now, as Roloson wanted 2 years, one more than the Oilers wanted. He also notes there isn’t much information coming out right now.
• 11:43am- The panel wonders if Heatley is worth it? The bonus weighs heavy here, but the guys note that Heatley is not perceived as a winner.
• 11:40am- Damn commercials. The panel is anticipating a flurry at 1pm EST.
• 11:32am- The panel discusses the Oilers-Senators pending deal. The panel thinks Cogliano is a defensive forward, obviously never having seen him play. They also question Heatley’s conditioning and wondering if he is a good fit in the up temp style Edmonton wants to play.
• 11:25am- John Lu asks if Francois Beauchemin could find his way back to Montreal? Or will they concentrate on a scoring winger first…
• 11:24am- The TSN panel likes the deal, as it gives Hedman an excellent mentor. Offer kudos to Tampa for a smart hockey deal.
• 11:23am- TSN reports that Marian Hossa is closing in on a deal with Chicago, and that Havlat is going out on the market.
• 11:22am- Kevin Allen of USA Today reports that Mattias Ohlund has signed a 7-year deal in Tampa. The average is about $3.75 million per year, according to TSN. Good cap deal for Tampa, and actual NHL defender.
• 11:15am- TSN reports that over the last 3 July 1sts, over a billion dollars has been committed.
• 11:15am- Johnny Oduya re-signs with the Devils.
• 11:15am- Jay Feaster doesn’t think Heatley will like playing for Tortorella.
• 11:13am- Fedotenko will test the free agent market. I think he will garner some attention.
• 11:12am- Ducks have re-signed Troy Bodie. The TSN panel is running down the signings, focusing on the Canadian teams.
• 11:05am- Ryan Rishaug has the report live from Edmonton, where he reports that Heatley isn’t popular in Oiler land either. Reports that Roloson hasn’t signed yet and will test the market.
• 11:04am- Brent Wallace live from Kanata right now. Very awkward…Where is his teleprompter?
• 11:03am- Watching some classic World Junior Hockey now, 2004 Grand Forks edition!
• 11:02am- Thanks for the comments! IC is aware of the time restrictions of Free Agency. I am just very impatient today and was anticipating some trades.
• 11:01am- Blackbird problem solved for now.
• 10:26am- Time to break out the air-soft on the blackbirds at my bird feeder.
• 10:25am- I think the Canucks did very well to re-sign the twins. The term is manageable and the price is right for 82 point scorers. I can imagine this might start the bidding for other players, notably Gaborik and Hossa. I can see one of them going to Montreal and, if the Heatley deal fails, Edmonton will make a push for one of them too.
• 10:20am- Finally some action. TSN is reporting that the Sedins have re-signed in Vancouver. The pair have apparently signed 5 year contracts averaging $6.1 million per season. Pretty decent deals if you ask me. No comment from Brian Burke as of yet.
• 10:00am- Just showered. Still not much news.
• 9:44am- The Sportsnet guys seem to think the Oilers offer is better, but that the Rangers will up the ante.
• 9:30am- Oilers fans back to cheering madly for Glen Sather. Come on Slats, ring those phones!
• 9:29am- The Lowetide blog is saying that the Oilers and Rangers are in a bidding war, with the Sens asking for Marc Staal from the Blueshirts and the Oilers looking to keep pace. This one is starting to smell. Is  (Oilers’ owner) Katz pushing for this?
• 9:27am- McKenzie says that the Habs are still looking for a winger.
• 9:24am- Hossa turns down a 10 year deal from Detroit?
• 9:13am- I am a big TSN fan, but this Wimbledon tennis has to go on July 1st
• 9:11am- McKenzie on TSN saying the Heatley deal is just on hold, rather than dead.
• 9:07am- I have more toast now. What is an appropriate amount to drink on Canada Day if you are ex-pat? Can I pick my wife up from work on a bus?
• 8:55am- Are the Rangers walking on Betts and Sjostrom? Sounds like it according to XM. Betts may be on his way to Edmonton to reunite with Tom Renney.
• 8:45am- Saw Transformers last night. I thought it was terrible, even with the slow motion scenes of Megan Fox’s cans running. Has anyone ever seen a motorcycle mechanic pose like that? I think I saw her ovary.
• 8:44am- Still nothing on TSN, have changed channels to the Score. Not much there either.
• 8:35am- Steve Zippay of Newsday feels that Zherdev, Rosival and prospect is a better offer than Penner, Cogliano and Smid. I guess he doesn’t get out of the Eastern time zone.
• 8:34am- Listened to XM Home Ice on the way to and from downtown. Lots of discussion on the Rangers-Habs trade.
• 8:01am- Enjoy this brief interlude as I drive my wife to work.
• 8:00am- Is July 1st going to be over by June 30th? My impatience grows.
• 7:59am- Oilers fans wavering between elated and apoplectic over at the Lowetide blog. 571 comments and its not even a game day.
• 7:57am- Ok. Seriously, I am totally ready to go here. Someone sign something. (I know its too early, I am just complaining)
• 7:55am- Ok, am ready for action anytime. Coffee and toast are both made. I am sort of dressed (sorry ladies) and the cat is cowering in fear.
• 7:41am- Anyone watching the football games tonight? Why not listen to the IC radio show? Big time guest tonight!
• 7:40am- Woke up to find that the Dany Heatley has not waived his NTC. My God actually listens…

Now, it gets interesting.

Dany Heatley did not waive his no-movement clause to facilitate an agreed-upon trade between the Ottawa Senators and Edmonton Oilers that would have sent Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner and Ladislav Smid to Ottawa.

For now, and quite possibly forever, the deal is dead.

For complete story, click here.

The good news for the Senators is that the NHL said that the bonus payment to Heatley doesn’t have to be paid until midnight tomorrow so technically they still have 24 hrs still to trade him without having to pay the bonus of 4 million.

Its not clear if Heatley refused the trade or failed to respond in sufficient time.  Its hard to believe that the Oilers and Senators would have progressed this far without knowledge that they could get a deal done.

Update:  Apparently he is going to sleep on it as his agent told Sportsnet.

Heatley’s agent J.P. Barry told Sportsnet.ca late Tuesday night that “it is our position that the [bonus] deadline is not until [Wednesday] night. We believe the [trade] decision does not have to come until that time…  Dany is going to sleep on it.”

Will keep readers updated as this debacle continues.  For up to the date news follow Illegalcurve on Twitter.

The next 24 to 48 hours could be a nail-biter for some of the NHL’s six Canadian clubs as Wednesday’s free agent signing period draws closer.

 In Vancouver, the spotlight is obviously on any progress in contract negotiations between Canucks general manager Mike Gillis and the Sedin twins.

One of the teams that could be in the running for the Sedins are the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Goaltending will also be an offseason concern for the Edmonton Oilers. General Manager Steve Tambellini is deciding whether or not to re-sign 39-year-old netminder Dwayne Roloson.

In Ottawa, Dany Heatley has five years remaining on his contract but he may have the single biggest impact for the Senators leading up to Wednesday.

In typical Darryl Sutter fashion, the Flames’ general manager will likely have his work done before July 1.

The NHL Entry Draft came and went with Canadiens general manager Bob Gainey unable to land the ‘big scoring centre’ that would have headlined Friday’s event in Montreal.

For complete story, click here.

As we saw this past weekend Brian Burke loves to be the focus of attention and I could easily see him getting this party started by grabbing the Sedins.  He obviously loved them when he drafted them 10 years ago (has it really been that long) and perhaps it would be a bit of payback for the Leafs after the Canucks signed longtime captain Mats Sundin.

Lots going on with all the teams in the NHL so stay tuned to illegalcurve as information breaks on any and all free agent moves.

Lindy Ruff, Ken Hitchcock and Jacques Lemaire will be assistant coaches to Mike Babcock on Canada’s 2010 men’s Olympic hockey team, sources tell CTVOlympics.ca.

The team’s executive director, Steve Yzerman, is expected to officially introduce all four coaches in a news conference Thursday morning in Montreal, including Red Wings coach Mike Babcock as head coach.

Read the entire article here.

What can you say?  These are some great hockey minds.  Hitchcock is the veteran of this group, having coached in 2002, 2004 and 2006 with Team Canada.  Ruff recently coached the Canadian team at the World Championships and that was obviously a first step to joining this elite coaching group.  The one hire that catches me somewhat off-guard is that of Jacques Lemaire.  Not that he isn’t qualified, because he may be the most qualified of the bunch, but it is interesting that he is the one coach who won’t be coaching in the NHL next season (unless Jersey and him come to an agreement).  So, expect Lemaire to be scouting around the league along with Yzerman, et al.

All in all, these are all qualified candidates with Stanley Cup experience that are a perfect combination of motivators, system specialists and leaders.  I can’t see how any Team Canada fans can be unhappy with these hires.

Hart Memorial Trophy:

Ovechkin was a runaway choice for the Hart, receiving 115 of 133 first-place votes for 1,264 points in balloting by the Professional Hockey Writers’ Association. Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who tallied 12 first-place votes and was the second choice on 71 ballots, was runner-up for the second consecutive season with 787 points.  

1. Alex Ovechkin, WSH 1264 (115-14-2-2-0);

2. Evgeni Malkin, PIT 787 (12-71-27-9-8);

3. Pavel Datsyuk, DET 404 (4-14-38-19-19).

IC Contributor who selected Ovechkin: David, Richard, Ari

Calder Memorial Trophy:

Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Steve Mason, who won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie. Named the NHL’s Rookie of the Month for both November and December, he posted a franchise-record three straight shutouts in late December during a four-game winning streak in which he stopped 94 of 95 shots. Mason finished strong, going 8-2-4 from Mar. 7-Apr.8 as Columbus captured the first playoff berth in franchise history. His 10 shutouts led the League and his 2.29 goals against average ranked second to Tim Thomas’ 2.10 for Boston.  

1. Steve Mason, CBJ 1268 (121-6-2-2-0);

2. Bobby Ryan, ANA 829 (9-84-24-9-4);

3. Kris Versteeg, CHI 323 (1-8-26-35-22).  

IC Contributors who selected Mason:  David, Ezra, Kyle, Richard, Ari, Drew

James Norris Memorial Trophy:

Zdeno Chara captured his first Norris Trophy as the League’s top defenseman in his third time as a finalist. Chara was the cornerstone of a Bruins defense that helped the club post the NHL’s lowest goals-per-game figure this season (2.29). He ranked sixth in the NHL in average ice time (26:04), was 12th among all defensemen in scoring with 50 points (19 goals, 31 assists) and posted a +23 rating. 

1. Zdeno Chara, BOS 1034 (68-36-18-4-0)

2. Mike Green, WSH 982 (50-53-19-4-4)

3. Nicklas Lidstrom, DET 733 (14-34-58-19-8)

IC Contributors who selected Chara: Kyle, Richard, Ari, Drew

Vezina Trophy:

The Bruins’ Tim Thomas claimed his first Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s top goaltender in voting among League General Managers. Thomas backstopped the Bruins to their highest victory (53) and points (116) totals since 1971-72. He led the NHL in goals against average (2.10) and save percentage (.933) while posting a career-high 36 wins. 

1. Tim Thomas, BOS 127 (22-5-2)

2. Steve Mason, CBJ 33 (3-4-6)

3. Niklas Backstrom, MIN 31 (1-8-2)

IC Contributors who selected Thomas: David, Ezra, Kyle, Richard, Drew

Jack Adams Award:

Bruins’ Claude Julien won the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s top coach in voting by members of the NHL Broadcasters’ Association. Julien guided the Bruins to the Eastern Conference’s top record, finishing 53-19-10 for 116 points — the third-highest total in franchise history, a 22-point increase over 2007-08 and 40 points more than 2006-07. 

1. Claude Julien, BOS 224 (35-14-7)

2. Andy Murray, STL 135 (15-17-9)

3. Todd McLellan, S.J. 98 (9-14-11)

IC Contributors who selected Julien: David, Kyle, Richard, Drew

Frank J. Selke Trophy:

In capturing his second consecutive Frank Selke Trophy as the League’s outstanding defensive forward, Datsyuk edged Philadelphia Flyers center Mike Richards 945-942 in the closest Selke vote since the trophy was introduced in 1978. 

1. Pavel Datsyuk, DET 945 (55-48-8-5-4)

2. Mike Richards, PHI 942 (61-42-6-2-2)

3. Ryan Kesler, VAN 290 (1-9-33-14-10)

IC Contributors who selected Datsyuk: David

Lady Byng Trophy:

Datsyuk joins Hockey Hall of Fame forward Frank Boucher as the only players in League history to capture the Lady Byng Trophy for four consecutive seasons.

1. Pavel Datsyuk, DET 933 (64-35-4-7-7)

2. Martin St. Louis, T.B. 662 (30-22-36-7-7)

3. Zach Parise, N.J. 521 (15-30-23-14-4)

IC Contributors who selected Datsyuk: Kyle, Richard, Drew
 

Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy:

Nashville Predators forward Steve Sullivan received the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey. Sullivan’s perseverance was measured in months, not weeks or days. He missed almost two full years – 687 days, to be precise – following a back injury suffered in February of 2007. When Sullivan returned to the Nashville lineup on Jan. 10, he became just the third player since World War II (Mario Lemieux, Jim Peplinski) to play 150 games with a team, then miss at least 600 consecutive days before returning to the same team. 

IC Contributors who selected Sullivan: Ezra

For those keeping score at home the IC Contributors did pretty well tonight.

1. Richard – 6/8
2. Ari – 3/5
3. Dave – 5/8
4. Kyle – 5/8
5. Drew – 5/8
6. Ezra – 3/8

Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur won’t be up for an NHL award on Thursday, but he’ll be honoured with his own day in the state of New Jersey.

The New Jersey senate and general assembly in a joint resolution have proclaimed Thursday “Martin Brodeur Day.”

“On behalf of the entire Senate, we’re proud to honor Marty Brodeur as our ‘adopted son,’” New Jersey Senator Richard Codey said in a statement. “He has kept Devils fans entertained for nearly 20 years and given our state something to be proud of. He’s a first-rate athlete who can now claim the distinction of being in a league of his own.”

For complete story, click here.

You can say whatever you want about him benefiting from the system the Devils play but it is hard to argue with some of the saves he has made over the past 20 years.

Your National Hockey League is on a real roll right now: On the heels of a court victory affirming its control over franchise ownership and relocation vis-à-vis the Coyotes and Jim Balsillie, it got confirmation that the just-completed Stanley Cup playoffs this year featured some of the highest television ratings in 36 years.

NBC’s Game 7 broadcast of the Stanley Cup final between the Penguins and the Red Wings on Friday night drew an average of 8 million viewers, the biggest American television audience for any N.H.L. game since the 9.4 million who watched the Game 6 Cup finale between Montreal and Chicago in 1973…

The size of the Pens-Wings audience is even more impressive, Variety reports, because Friday is customarily the lightest viewing night of the week.

And of course, some head-to-head context with the NHL’s sister league:

Sunday night’s ABC broadcast of Game 5 of the N.B.A. finals, in which the Los Angeles Lakers won the title against the Orlando Magic, attracted an average of 14 million viewers. That means the N.H.L. telecast drew an audience 57 percent the size of the N.B.A.’s. Traditionally in the U.S., N.H.L. games draw from 25 percent to 33 percent of the audience that watches N.B.A. games.

Yup, hockey fans can take pride in the idea that their sport is half has popular as pro hoops! But good news on the TV front is rare enough that this counts as a resounding victory. The Friday night result gives a nice boost to the final average viewership for the five NBC-broadcasted games of 5.6 million.

For complete story, click here.

Gary Bettman must be positively glowing with all the good news.  The Courts have temporarily shut out Balsillie, Game 7 draws 8 million viewers and they get to see Sidney Crosby raise the Cup, it would appear that all is good in hockey, from an NHL point of view.

In a one-sentence notice issued Thursday, Judge Baum said he will make one ruling on all of the issues heard Tuesday.

“The court advised those present that he will not be setting a separate hearing on relocation and fee issue. It will be dealt with in the court’s ruling from the [June 9] hearing,” Judge Baum said.

Read the entire article here.

Judge Baum is trying to speed up this proceess as much as possible…until the appeal process hits and someone else has to deal with this whole situation.

Obviously, this is pretty bad news for Ottawa, who is now facing a Chris Pronger type situation. Its one thing to be able to quietly shop a high scoring winger, but when the entire league knows what you are facing, the potential return is quite seriously diminished. That being said, a number of teams (LA, Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, et al) are all rumoured to be looking to add some star power, so perhaps Ottawa will get something in return. Edmonton, in particular, could use some scoring punch on the wing and the price tag is a little better than what a player like Marian Hossa could command. LA is also rumoured to covet Ryan Smyth, so perhaps Heatley would fit a little better in that he is a few years younger even if he is a little more expensive.

Alternatively, Ottawa GM Bryan Murray is quoted in the TSN piece saying that they expect Heatley to honour his deal. Perhaps Ottawa will dig in their heals and play hardball with Heatley? Ottawa’s lineup looks pretty thin once you remove Heatley’s 39 goals, so if Murray does decide to move him he had better get some offensive prowess coming back.

Any thoughts on potential destinations? Should Ottawa make him stay? Who will Jason Spezza pass to now?

Lets hear it in the comments.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman will be in a Phoenix courtroom Tuesday for a hearing related to the potential sale and relocation of the Phoenix Coyotes.

Jerry Moyes is attempting to sell the team to Canadian billionaire Jim Balsillie through a Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding. Balsillie has attached a rider to the sale, which if approved would give him the authority to move the organization to Hamilton, Ont. The NHL argues that Moyes relinquished ownership control in previously executed documented and that  only the League can approve the sale and relocation of franchise. Bettman has said the Phoenix situation is fixable by following NHL rules and regulations.

Read the entire story here.

Clearly this underscores the importance of this hearing to the NHL and all of the other major sports leagues in North America.  There is a fear that a dangerous precedent could be set today–granted an appeal would be a given–so the NHL will have all the big guns on hand in Phoenix.

Coach Mike Babcock:

Will Hank and Pav be playing on the same line again in Game 6?
I have no idea yet. We’re going to break down the tapes right now, and we’ll go through all of that and we’ll see. We’ll just try to put ourselves in the best situation to get the kind of match?ups that are advantageous for us. The more depth you have, the better match?ups you get. If you play from behind, you never get what you want. If you play from ahead, you always get what you want. So all those things go into controlling the game.

How’s Datsyuk doing a day after returning to the lineup?
Yeah, I asked him. He said he’s feeling good. He’s in there hanging out like everyone else. No one has given me or Pete hasn’t given me any reports that there’s anything did negative.

Pavel Datsyuk:

How are you feeling today a day after playing your first game in a while? And what did you do here today at the rink?
Just come to here with my friends. And feeling good and more confident. And just like try to come back into my shape, work out, and be ready for a very important game.

Kris Draper:

You talked a little about your first Stanley Cup losing and the disappointment of it, and in 2007 you guys lost to the Ducks in the Conference Finals. How much are you driven by the sense that I don’t want to feel that way again? I don’t want to lose and watch somebody else celebrate?
Yeah, to be honest, I love watching the game of hockey. But when we’re not in the Stanley Cup Finals I never watch the end. I watch the hockey, and as soon as I realize what’s going to happen I turn the TV off or change the channel.            

Everything that we do as hockey players, all we want to do is get your name on that Stanley Cup. You know, you can never have it on enough. So when we lost in ’95 to the Devils we didn’t want to experience that kind of bitterness, and that bad taste again.            

We’ve had some success and we’ve had some disappointments, and that’s exactly what’s going to happen within a great organization. But you know, when you get here, you just want to lay everything on the line and have no regrets, you know. And I think we had that mindset last night, and we know we’re going to need it again. Everything that we do from here on in is certainly worthwhile to try to get that one more win.

Dan Cleary:

Ozzie’s overall numbers speak for themselves. Does he get the recognition that he deserves, not just from the media, but from opposing players and players in general?
I think he does from the players. I don’t think he has from the media. I think he will now. I think he’s proven himself to be a goalie you can count on and you can win with. He’s a real gamer, real competitive.

Chris Osgood and Marc-Andre Fleury are the only Canadian goaltenders playing meaningful hockey for the second straight June and neither has previously found his name as part of the Olympic conversation. However, given some difficult playoff performances from Martin Brodeur and Roberto Luongo, both seem like more of a possibility.

At the very least, they will probably be invited to the orientation camp.

Osgood joked earlier this week that he’d be lobbying Yzerman and Red Wings GM Ken Holland at the lake during the off-season. He firmly believes he’s up to the task.

“Could I do it? Oh, for sure I could do it,” said Osgood. “I could play there. I think I have the mental makeup and I think I’m skilled enough to play there. But whether or not that happens, I have no idea. I’d have to have a better regular season in the first half than I obviously did this year. …

“If I’m there or not, it’s great just to be mentioned and to be considered.”

Last month, The Canadian Press had Brodeur, Luongo and Cam Ward as its three goalies for the 2010 team. We’ve chosen to sub in Osgood as the third man and would now rate Fleury above Ward in the pecking order after beating him in a head-to-head playoff matchup.

Read the entire article here.

First off, I think it is amazing how much attention the topic of the third goalie on the Canadian Olympic team is getting.  I mean, this guy has about a 2% chance of seeing any game action.  Anyhow, I can’t say I agree with this at all.  Give Osgood credit, he has played very, very well in the playoffs; that said, he is not the third best goaltender from Canada.  Marc-Andre Fleury and Cam Ward are better netminders than Osgood and if you put either of them on Detroit, I’m sure you could argue they’d be champions too.  With all respect to Osgood, he should not be invited to this summer’s camp. 

Pittsburgh Head Coach Dan Bylsma

Are you expecting and/or game planning for Datsyuk?
Right now they’d be lying if he wasn’t in. They say he’s going to play. At least that’s what I’ve read. So we’re planning on him being in the lineup, and possibly more additions as well.

Does that change anything for you?
Well, I don’t know in what capacity those guys coming in are going to play and how much they’re going to play. They played Zetterberg an awful lot last game. And if I’m assuming that if Datsyuk comes in, that would alleviate some of the pressure on his ice time. But still looking for those guys to be out against our skill players. So I expect the same kind of approach from their team if he’s in.

Are you seeing what you’d like to see out of Chris Kunitz, or is there something missing there?
I don’t know what the NHL stats were last game for his hits. I think they were 11. I think we had them at 13, the way we count them. That’s a lot of leaving a mark. That’s leaving your mark in a lot of different places. That’s what you count on from the guy. Leaving a mark, being a presence on the forecheck, going and driving to the net.

 Detroit Head Coach Mike Babcock:

Can we assume from the fact that Pavel’s still out there that he’s probably not playing tonight?
I wouldn’t assume anything. Pavel already told me that he’s warming up and planning on playing. Now, we’ve had lots of plans over the years. We’ll see what happens.

Well, you let us in that Draper was playing yesterday. So you have not made a decision on Pavel and it’s going to be game time, correct?
I’m not making the decision. When Pav’s ready, he’s playing. He’s making that decision or the doctors and trainers. When he feels he’s ready to go, and that foot allows him to have some pop, he’s playing.  Right now we have Draper going in, we have Abby coming out.

How are you?
Feel great, actually, you know. Really good. I’m missing my son’s graduation today. I missed my daughter’s birthday on Tuesday. So probably not running for Father of the Year, but other than that, everything’s good (laughing).

Looks like today is all about Pavel and whether or not he is returning.  Bylsma is a refreshing change from the hold everything close to your vest types.  He seems pretty candid.  What’s even more shocking is to hear Mike Babcock cracking jokes.

Talk about players, as Playoffs go on, having to do more and the competition becomes more key. Is that true for coaching? Do you have to do different things at this stage that maybe you didn’t have to do in the first round?
I think it often depends on your opponent. And there are coaches that like to make a lot of adjustments. There are coaches who, last night Zetterberg was definitely, obviously coming on the ice and off the ice at key moments trying to get different match?ups. That poses a different situation than some of the other things early on. I don’t think it would be ?? I don’t think it’s just because it’s the Finals. I think it’s because it’s Mike Babcock and the Red Wings.  So each series is a little bit different. And this one is presenting different situations.

With Sidney seeing so much of Zetterberg and Lidstrom and that pairing, can you maybe just address the importance of Evgeni’s line contributing offensively with Sid stuck in that match-up? And how that could potentially change that dynamic if they get that seat back?
I’d be interested to see how it would change the dynamic. Last game was a unique game where Zetterberg was on the ice for a lot of hockey. He was out there in a couple different instances where he was double shifting after long shifts. So he was really chasing that match-up. He was getting them on the ice in those situations. And there’s a lot of focus on that. As a result Sid still had to fight that numerous times.            

But it does leave the onus on our other guys to play our game and get to the offensive zone to take some pressure off just one guy scoring and one line scoring. So it was an interesting dynamic. Different than the first two games in how they approached the game, and how much Zetterberg had to play to try to get that match-up. And I think you’ve seen Geno be on the board each game here and helping us out in that regard.            

But I think as a team, we need to do a better job playing in the offensive zone and winning face?offs and keeping pressure on them that doesn’t allow them to get that change that they did get numerous times last night with a guy jumping on the ice, Zetterberg getting out there. Better play in the offensive zone by everybody would make those match?ups better, even better for us.

What makes Max Talbot such a clutch player? He’s had some huge goals for you guys last year and this year in the postseason. And as a coach, can you look at a player before he does that and say that he has that potential? You know what I mean? Can you almost identify those guys before they do what they do?
You know, Max, one of the great attributes that Max had, and I heard Geno comment on eloquently on them earlier (smiling), is he’s a determined guy who lays it on the line. He will scrap and claw and continue to do that over and over again. Doesn’t get deterred by the situation. Doesn’t get deterred by how much ice time he does or doesn’t get. He’s out there, scratching and clawing for opportunities.            

And that means he’s going to the dirty areas. That means he’s battling the guy next to him who is trying to prevent him from doing that. I think that’s why, in situations like this, he gets in those opportunities that allow him to get the big goal.            

That’s his strength. It may not be his hands, but it’s his determination, and his will, and his willingness to battle the guy that is across from him and gets him in those spots.     
       
You know, quote of the movie yesterday, winners want the ball. He wants to go there. He wants to be it. And a lot of guys do. A lot of guys do. But the work ethic and determination, that’s his strength. That’s his NHL skill, and he shows it over and over again. And I hope he keeps getting the chance.

You just talked about Evgeni and he had this room breaking up. I imagine there is a personality in there that we don’t all get a chance to see. Can you talk about since you’ve come in the personality that you’ve seen in him and how it plays in the room?
Yeah, I think it’s tough to see from the outside. But it doesn’t take long when you are in the room and you see him. That’s not odd for him to crack up the room or say something that gets a laugh or a joke. Of all the guys in that room he probably likes a joke more than the next guy. 

I’ve been asked the question or alluded to the fact that maybe he doesn’t understand. He’s the first guy to laugh at my jokes. That’s why I like him (smiling). And he understands perfectly. 
      
But he’s a great teammate. He’s in that room. He laughs and jokes. And he’s very serious about being a hockey player. It’s a tough situation. There’s a lot of hurdles coming from his culture and being a young kid. But that’s who he is.  That’s who Evgeni is. And he’s a fiery competitor. He’s passionate. He wants desperately to win. And at the same time you’ll get the Max Talbot joke pretty regularly out of that guy. So it certainly adds to our room not only with his skill level, obviously, on the ice, but he’s a well?liked teammate because of the way he is in that room.

He clearly is enjoying having the last line change.  Unfortunately for Coach Bylsma the Wings would have 1 more game then the Pens if this series goes the distance, so he is going to need to figure out a way for the Pens to win with Crosby facing Zetterberg/Lidstrom every shift.

Discounting the final 19 seconds of the second game, there had only been five minor penalties called in the first two games of this series. Do you think the officiating started has changed from the regular season, and does this favor one team or the other in this series?
I think the standard that’s been called in the game has been fair. I mean, is there penalties on each side?? as a coach, you can go through the game and say that was a penalty, that wasn’t a penalty.  But if you’re honest, you can usually say that about both sides.  You know, as a coach, you typically want to point out the ones that their team does against yours and you rarely want to point out the ones that your team does against theirs. So I think the standard on the ice has been pretty consistent for both teams.

There’s two ways of looking at the plight your team is in right now, next shift, next game, or you have to beat the Red Wings four out of five to win the Stanley Cup. Do you choose door number one for your guys?
That’s an easy one to pick. The great thing about a seven game series, it’s either a testament of the best team wins quickly, or if you can draw it out, it’s a battle of will, and endurance and determination and right now that’s what we need to turn it into. They have two wins, and we need to get back in this series with a win here tonight. If not, we face the prospect of being down 0 games to 3.

One of the things that your players just said was that last year they didn’t play well in the first two games. They felt they played well in the first two games in this series. Just your thoughts going into Game 3 on the specifics of what they have to do better in Game 3 in order to get that puck in the net?
Yeah, we’re talking in some cases we’re talking about burying the chances that we do have. We can talk about posts, and that’s something we can do better. Their goalie has made the save or we haven’t taken advantage of really good opportunities. I think the one thing that they’ve been better at than us in this series is in and around that net on second chances and loose pucks. They’ve gotten those goals. Whether it be off the end board or on rebounds, they’ve created them.  We’ve had situations where we’ve had it there. The pucks been in the crease on top of goalies, behind the goalie. We just haven’t gotten enough pucks in by them, and we have to be better in that area. We can also get better in maintaining possession in the offensive zone.  They’ve done a good job of playing defense. But too many times it’s 10 seconds or less, 15 seconds or less, we need to get more shifts of the 30 second variety. One of the strengths previously for us was getting shift after shift in the offensive zone makes it tough on defensemen, and we need to do more than that.

I’m sure that Justin Abdelkader was familiar with you when he was growing up. Were you familiar with him and his success when he was growing up just a few miles away? And can you just talk a little bit about how he’s played, and how he’s developed?
I never had a billboard in West Michigan, Justin did. I don’t know if he still does. So I was fully aware of this kid from Michigan growing up. Even when he was young. Then where he went from there and then on to Michigan State. And heard talk about where he was going to rank as a pro. Was fully aware of him. Never got a chance to meet him until this year in Grand Rapids where I met his family. I was fully aware. Again, I saw the billboard, and a little jealous I never got one. Not that I’m a billboard type of guy in West Michigan. But he got it.

Are you going with the same lineup tonight, Coach?
It will be game time decision. It’s playoffs. We’re dealing with the bumps and bruises, and we’ll make some decisions at game time.

It’s been talked about after the last couple of games about Fleury and maybe there being a tough one that he’d like to have back?to?back breaking goal. Fair or not, whatever. How do you think he’s handled whatever criticism has come his way, and what are your expectations of his play in this pressure situation back home?
This is not the first game that Marc-Andre’s faced criticism from outside and questioned whether he played in the big game or late in the year and carry a team or play in the playoffs. He’s answered those questions pretty dramatically with his play both the last two seasons at the end of the year. He came up with big games in the playoffs.  The losing team always has questions to answer on their play. And Marc-Andre is the goaltender, he’s going to take some of that criticism and field some of those questions. But I’m confident that he’s always come back with focus and determination on playing his best game, and I anticipate that will be the case tonight. 

He seems pretty loose and until he has a loss at home I guess that’s fine.  I liked his point about the officiating.  Expect a big game from the Pens tonight.

Has Draper been cleared to play by doctors and if so, will he play tonight?
Yeah, he was cleared before last game. Don’t know if he’ll play tonight. It will be based on Samuelsson. Samuelsson didn’t take the morning skate, so we’ll see what happens there.

Second injury, we just saw Pavel out on the ice. Just your thoughts on him and how does he look today?
Well, I guess he had his best overnight experience that he’s had. And he seemed to have a big turn around. So he was real optimistic here today. I don’t assume that affects today’s game whatsoever, but it could really affect the following game.

Do you enjoy the fact that Kirk Maltby tends to play a game within a game and gets chirpy out there and tries to get in everybody’s head?
Well, I think the big thing about Malts is since I’ve been here the best time of his year each year is at this time. He plays well and he plays hard. He’s been real good for us in each and every game. That’s just a side bar, Malts.

Traditionally Game 3 is such a swing game as far as, you know, you guys could basically put it away or they could get life. Last year what did they do to get Game 3, and what do you do differently this time?
Well, last Game 3, and I don’t remember it as well as I probably should. But the bottom line is they were able to get started on time, and we still had opportunities in that game. But they got started, they got the lead, and they played well and they used the momentum.  Our key here today is getting started on time. Executing early, making some plays. And just understanding that there’s going to be some energy from the crowd, but it’s just like in our building, it’s for two teams.

There’s a theory because your team is up 2 games to none they can relax and have more fun. Is that true or what do you think?
I don’t know. Relaxing is for the summer. You know, I guess what I’d tell you here is there’s an opportunity today for both teams. You know, Game 1 was huge. Then when we got to Game 2 it was huge, and now Game 3 is huge. Why? Because it’s the one we’re playing. So I think both teams are very much an understanding of how big this game is. We’ve both been here in this situation before. We understand it’s a big game and that we’ve got to be at our best.

You guys have played so well on the road this year, what is the mindset when you come into a building is it experience, is it just knowing what to expect? You guys really relished playing in another team’s building?
That’s a real good question. We’ve been a good road team since the lockout, for sure. Played real well on the road. And part of it is depth. But part of it is just understanding how to play. The other thing I think is on the road you don’t entertain. You execute. Sometimes entertaining your own people leads to turnovers and lack of execution. So we just need to play a real simple game here today and make sure we’re playing hard and ready to go on time.

No real surprises except that Pavel Datsyuk might be feeling better on his skates than was being forcast.  Or perhaps it is some gamesmanship on Babcock’s part.  As can be expected at this time of year no injury news will be forthcoming.  It is a wonder that reporter’s even bother to ask anymore.

The Florida Panthers may soon have a collection of new owners if a $240-million (U.S.) offer from Sports Properties Acquisition Corp. makes its way to the NHL’s board of governors.

The Panthers, their arena management company and some land surrounding the BankAtlantic Center are all part of a deal that would see SPAC, a public-stock company, conclude its first transaction since being formed last year.

Sources have confirmed the Panthers ownership group and SPAC have been in negotiations for more than a month and have reached an agreement. There are few details but, according to a recent report in the SportsBusiness Journal, the deal may involve a merger between SPAC and Sunrise Sports & Entertainment, with current Panthers owners (Alan Cohen, Bernie Kosar, etc.) receiving stock in Sports Properties.

“You have to look at what assets are included,” a source said. “With sports franchise transactions, you can cut the numbers many ways. I will say $240-million is a very healthy number.”

A spokesperson for SPAC said the company had no comment.

For complete story, click here.

Lots of news out of South Florida today.

The National Hockey League announced today that Game 2 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Final on May 31, 2009, has been assigned an 8:00 p.m. ET start time.

The game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit will be broadcast on NBC in the United States and on CBC and RDS in Canada.

This move is a result of last night’s victory by the Los Angeles Lakers over the Denver Nuggets.  Had the Lakers lost, Game 7 of the NBA Western Conference Finals would have been played last night in L.A. and the NHL would have had to compete head-to-head with the Lakers in Game 7.  In that instance Game 2 would have started at 7pm.

Possible #1 selection and OHL leading scorer John Tavares did not do upper-body exercises at all, leading to speculation that he has an upper-body injury. He did do 46 sit-ups, which is one of the highest totals seen on the day. Tavares is fit but there’s obviously something going on – possibly a shoulder injury – as he did not do push-ups or the bench press.  Tavares did do cycling and is looking good.

Evander Kane (#3) had an excellent workout.  He had 17 bench presses, which ties the unofficial high for the day.  Kane also did 47 push-ups, which seems to be far and away the best so far.  In general, the 17-year-old looks like he’s in really good shape. Kane has lots of room to grow but was certainly ready for this judging by his workout.

Ryan Bourque (#49), son of NHL legend Ray, is relatively small but did a great job on the agility drills where players hop around a hexagon. He excelled during this exercise, doing better than most of his counterparts. Ryan is also the spitting image of his father, like a smaller version of his dad. 

No. 1-ranked European Victor Hedman is huge, measuring in at close to 6’6. Jared Cowen (#9 overall, according to NHL Central Scouting) is 6’5. Obviously both players have long limbs which enabled them to have good all-around workouts.

Photo: REUTERS/Mike Cassese

An interesting note on the day as a whole so far: there has not yet been anyone who has stood out dramatically. In 2008, Zach Bogosian and Colin Wilson both made a tremendous splash with their Combines. The 2009 edition is yet to see a complete standout performance that steals all the thunder and leaves everyone talking about it. There have been many decent performances but no one has been blown away by any individual just yet.

Jordan Schroeder, who is fifth-ranked and a likely lottery pick, interviewed with 23 NHL clubs in 24 hours.

For the complete blog report from the Combine, click here.

Jim Balsillie has announced the renovation plans for Hamilton’s Copps Coliseum.

The project would see the arena updated with fan friendly features, new restaurants, food and bar amenities and a capacity for over 18,000. According to a media release, the update would also fully address all of the National Hockey League’s previously stated requirements for Copps Coliseum.

via tsn. Photo: Veritas Communications

“A new team for the best new hockey market deserves spectacular new home ice, and that’s exactly what the upgraded Copps Coliseum would offer,” said Balsillie in the release. “This facility will deliver unparalleled excitement and bring fans closer than ever to the action.”

Read the entire article here.

Has anyone ever put the cart this far before the horse before? Honestly.  If Balsillie wins the case and it isn’t overturned on appeal, then he can announce these plans.  But, c’mon, this is way, way too early.

At a hearing Wednesday, judge Redfield Baum called the relocation issue “the 10,000-pound elephant in the room” and said it needed to be resolved quickly.

He set a hearing for June 9 and promised a ruling shortly thereafter. All briefs and declarations must be submitted by June 5. The relocation hearing had been scheduled for June 22, but Balsillie has said he will withdraw his US$212.5-million offer if the sale is not completed by the end of June.

Read the entire story here.

As the article states, the NHL is going to appeal if it loses and that will serve two purposes.  Number one is obvious, in that it gives them a chance to win the case.  Number two, is the fact that an appeal process would continue to push back a resolution date, thereby making it harder for Balsillie to set the wheels in motion if he were to win the case.

From TSN.ca:

Former NHL player Peter Zezel passed away at a Toronto hospital on Tuesday, after a long battle with a blood disorder.

Zezel, 44, spent the last 10 years being treated for haemolytic anaemia, a rare disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them. 

His family released the following statement:

“Peter will forever be remembered as a great teammate and a wonderful individual, who touched the lives of many both on and off the ice. In his typical character of generosity, Peter has donated his organs through the Trillium Gift of Life Network. We would like to thank all of Peter’s friends and family for their support and we ask for privacy during this difficult time.”

For complete story, click here.

His family has asked that in lieu of flowers donations be made to made in Peter Zezel’s name to the James Birrell Fund at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. The cheques should be made  payable to “The James Fund” and can be mailed to:

The James Fund
625 Whitaker Street #4
Peterborough, ON
K9H 7L5
Canada

Darryl Sutter says he’s the best man right now to coach the Calgary Flames, but he’s looking at other candidates before he makes his final decision.

Four days after the Flames announced the firing of Mike Keenan, Calgary’s general manager told reporters he wants to have a new head coach in place by the NHL entry draft June 26-27 in Montreal.

“Right now I’m the best one,” Sutter said when asked when he was in the running for the head-coaching job.

“All the best coaches in the league are under contract.

“There’s three guys who are excellent. I won’t tell you who they are, but then I’m fourth.

“If I find out at the end of the search that I think I’m the best candidate, then I am the coach.”

For complete story, click here.

Not wanting to let his Provincial rivals get all the media attention, the Flames held a press conference in which Darryl Sutter disclosed nothing really aside from the fact that he feels he would be the best candidate to coach the Flames if he was unable to get the 3 other guys he considers worthwhile.  I’d be curious to know who the three on his radar are (Aside from his brother Brent).

Any thoughts as to who the two remaining qualified candidates are?  Sound off in the comments if you think you know.

 Head Coach Pat Quinn:

“Very happy for this opportunity”
“Happy to be back in Canada”
“Historic franchise”
“Great fans”

 Associate Coach Tom Renney

“This was a no brainer”
“I will work within Pat’s framework”
“Nice to be back in Western Canada”

 General Manager Steve Tambellini

“I wanted a great coaching staff”
“Successful situations rely on strength of the group”

Question & Answers

Pat Quinn
Q. Do you need to awake the Vets?
A. “I think we will provide an environment where guys will want to work hard”

Tom Renney
Q. Was it hard stepping back from being a Head Coach to an Associate Coach?
A. “I look at it as an opportunity to grow”

Pat Quinn
Q. What are your thoughts on completing your staff?
A. “I want to bring someone in who will complement our total group here, but don’t want to get too fat”

Pat Quinn
Q. This is the first time you will be without Rick Ley, have you considered bringing him in?
A. “Nothing has been decided”, “If we don’t bring him in here then he should get consideration elsewhere”

Pat Quinn
Q. Discussing how he got into coaching.
A. “After my playing career ended prematurely, it was either law school or become an assistant coach”