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Ok right the Habs missed the playoffs... again. But there are positives to get out of this NHL season. Seriously. Let's start with [b]Guillaume Latendresse[/b]. This kid has shown a lot of grit and skills at different times this year and has managed to score 16 goals in his first NHL season (and he is 19 years of age!) He is not the next Sidney Crosby but he could p...
bradleyc4 writes...

A Look Ahead

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Missing the playoffs for the first time in years, the Flyers need to begin looking towards their future. They've already addressed this somewhat in-season by trading away veterans for younger players and draft picks. They've acquired their new #1 goaltender in Martin Biron, fiesty winger Scottie Upshall and three solid defensemen in Lasse Kukkonen, Braydon Coburn and Ryan ...
I realize that today is Christmas and the moment we wait for all year long...BUT... thanks to Eklund's insane love for hockey and, especially, his desire to include and reward the true fans of the game, I must first use this great new platform to honor the ALL-TIME GOAL SCORING AMERICAN! Stay tuned for more about the Stars playoff run...there is nothing better than gettin...
With hockey fever raging through Buffalo unchecked, that can mean only one thing. We are one day from game one. Sabre players have said they are not looking beyond the Islanders and have laid very classy praise on Ted Nolan and his boys from the Island. Are the Islanders equally prepared? [img:left]http://msn.foxsports.com/id/6198854_36_2.jpg[/img]We have not heard m...
C'est platte quand ton équipe préférée est pas dans les séries. Les canadiens gagneront jamais avec des cons comme Kovalev pis Samsonov dans l'équipe. Samsonov c'est sûr qu'il va partir, mais malheureusement Gainey a pas l'air de vouloir échanger Kovalev cet été, les canadiens ne seront pas tellement améliorés l'an prochain s'il garde Kovalev qui joue une game...
Well, Game 1 is finally here! The past several days have inched by as I've waited for the playoffs to start. It should be a good game. I think the Islanders will really work hard and battle. The Sabres have waited for this all season, so they better be ready. I expect them to play like they were at the start of the season and during the playoffs last year. At times t...
What a game..... 4-1 score. close to the 5-1 prediction This was a solid strong performance by the Sabres. Nothing more and nothing less. Brian "I can score in the playoffs" Campbell brings home two goals and 1 assist. then you have Chris "I will lead you to the promise land" Drury who played one hell of a game and had 2 goals and in goal Ryan "It's Mi...
erby writes...

My Take on DiPietro

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Here are how the options stand. (1) DP stands on his head, steals a game for the Isles, and Ted Nolan comes out a hero. (2) DP stands on his head, but Sabres still overpower the Isles as a team, and it's a huge risk with little reward. (3) DP comes out rusty, Sabres run over the Isles, and it's a huge risk with NO reward. (4) DP gets hurt (long- or short- term) and Ted ...
First off, let me say that at the beginning of the season, I said that the Islanders would make the postseason, largely on the coaching of Ted Nolan. What can I say? I love the guy. He coaches a great style of hockey. He put together my favourite Sabres line of all-time in Ray, May and Barnaby the "dog line". Now, I have to question what Nolan, and Garth Snow are thi...
Another year has come to an end for the Montreal Canadiens, and dissapointingly the team was unable to make a second straight playoff appearance. Prior to Christmas, the Habs were on fire and had a shot at catching the dominant Buffalo Sabres atop the Northeast Division standings. But, with the team being hammered by the flu bug in late December, followed by a monstrous tw...
Beasts. Everywhere. It's a good thing I have my trusty guide with me. We step out of our vehicle and onto the dilapidated lot in Uniondale, Long Island. Nassau Coliseum stands like some archaic ruin, except the ancient Roman and Greek ruins are far better managed. My guide carries our hidden snacks and drinks in her deep-pocketed coat. The rain bleats down like the hammer ...
briere2112 writes...

Goal or No Goal?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Sabres won Game 4 by a score of 4-2. However, when it was 3-2 Sabres, the Isles put the puck in the net. The refs ruled no goal on the ice and Toronto also ruled no goal. However, was this the right call? I am a Sabres fan, so I want to believe it was the correct call. But there have been too many occasions where the Sabres have been screwed by bad calls for me no...
These calls NEVER go Buffalo’s way… EVER! Vanek’s goal – Common sense tells you it was clearly a goal… however I was fully expecting that to be disallowed. The Afinegenov powerplay – Max somehow drew 6minutes in penalties with a hard play to the net that we see over and over again. Again, I live in Buffalo, I expected co-incidentals at best. Game 4 N...
B.D. Gallof writes...

Part I: A New Hope

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
My evening started typically enough. Stuck in unmoving traffic to get over to JFK. My future brother-in-law was coming in for the game tonight...taking off from work as a chef in a very highly respected restaurant in Florida. I look up, half expecting to see bats, but instead the sky is thickly overcast in the gray fog which has enveloped Long Island since hockey came to t...
To read Part I: http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=567&post_id=557 [i]We last left our hero, yours truly, with his trusty guide, her brother (the former Islander fan trumpet player) watching Game 4 of the Islander/Sabres series. A man donned in a Ranger jersey has sat in the seats, and bad vibes are back in the Coliseum.[/i] "Leave it all on the ice" ...
The Minnesota Wild have the most daunting of tasks ahead of them. We've all heard the constant droning on and on about the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders and their amazing comeback stories. Blah blah blah blah blah. Fact is, even though the Wild exploded for 5 goals in Game 4 (yeah, one was waved off on a bogus call on a rule that is no longer in exis...
So I was recently in Dallas for the first time (I'd been through the airport before, but I hadn't spent any time on the ground) and took in a Stars game. I felt pretty strange going to the game, to tell you the truth. Like I was somehow betraying my childhood. You see, I grew up in Minnesota with the North Stars. When you grow up in Minnesota you follow hockey. End of ...
Without question, the biggest issue surrounding the New York Islanders this off-season will be the efforts to re-sign Ryan Smyth. The Isles, as usual, have many other outstanding issues to resolve before the 2007-08 campaign, including the possible buyout of captain Alexei Yashin, re-signing leading scorer Jason Blake, and whether or not to bring back two suspended players...
Bill Meltzer had an interesting post today regarding the debate over whether or not the NHL should switch to shootouts in the playoffs: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=7179 I stand with Mr. Meltzer on this, and just want to add a thought I had. The people who are looking for a change in playoff format are clearly not hockey fans, or they would know how rid...
[img:right]http://www.click2host.us/003/roberto_luongo706208.jpg[/img]The NHL announced its nominees for their annual year-end awards, Roberto Luongo was nominated for three awards and Alain Vigneault was nominated for coach of the year. Luongo were among the nominees for the Hart Memorial Trophy (most valuable player to his team), Lester B. Pearson Award (most outstand...
nephew23 writes...

ABSURDITY!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
First of all, I'd like to thank the Vancouver Canucks for lending their tv announcers to CBC Sports for game 4! What an incredible gesture towards the people of Canada, and specifically Canucks' fans! I'm so thankful American fans, specifically Ducks fans, got to hear those announcers cheer for their team the entire game...and overtime hasn't even begun yet! I cannot wa...
gonucks writes...

Free Agent Huntin'

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
After an embarrassing double-OT playoff elimination for the Vancouver Canucks fans are turning their attention to the free-agent pool. As a loyal Canucks fan I feel that our lack of offense needs to be taken care of. We have solid defense and amazing goaltending so we have built our game around that. I personally feel that we should trade away Mattias Ohlund. He is no long...
Fellow fans, We have waited too long for the NHL to promote its own game. Instead 4 friends got together to show the best of hockey. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDSY5-y2BRs please let us know what you think. t2MA
grosek18 writes...

Embrace, Do Not Disgrase

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Canadian hockey fans and other hockey fans of the more established teams from the North will ultimately will hear the following comments one way or another at a NHL arena, or anywhere else NHL hockey fans gather: "The Stanley Cup belongs in a [b]real[/b] hockeytown" "I cannot stand when these teams from the South and the West win. It's not right" Ask yourself thi...
The Sabres’ past season and the final episode of the Sopranos have a few things in common. The Sabres built up the hopes and dreams of the City of Buffalo for its first ever significant national championship. We, Sabres fans, have seen this team develop over the years with big wins, strong efforts and winning streaks that led to the best record in the NHL’s regular sea...
The top name that keeps getting thrown around town as rumours swirl is Ryan Smyth heading to the Leafs, this seems to be the Leafs #1 target this off season with the backline all shored up pending Colaiacovo's signing which should be done shortly, what seems to escape many people's minds is that the Leafs are also looking to add some much needed grit to the lineup with the...
cfposi writes...

Yashin to Montreal???

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Ok...I will admit, the prospect of a Samsonov - Yashin - Kovalev line sounds explosive...on paper. But do we really expect the Habs to make the same mistake 3 times in a row here? 05-06 Season: Kovalev signed to a 4 year deal worth 20.25 Million (Failure) 06-07 Season: Samsonov signed to a 2 year deal worth 7.05 Million (Failure) 07-08 Season: YASHIN?!?!?! Come on ...
Another reason why I think Bob Gainey is the best GM in the league! Instead of buying out Samsonov (cap hit of 1.175 over the next 2 years), we have now traded this dissapointment to Chicago in return for Cullimore and Salmelainen (Total Cap hit of 2.65M this year). To make things better, the habs will buyout Cullimore (cap hit of 612,000 over the next 2 years). This is gr...
During "Crazy-Time" last summer Flyers GM Bob Clarke approached Ryan Kesler and made an absurd off to the underachieving restricted free agent. The offer was for a one year deal at $1.9 million dollars, to a player that had far from met any expectations and seemingly could not put the puck in the Pacific Ocean if he were standing on Honolulu Island. Don't get me wrong, ...
[u][b]Ohlund for Ryder[/b][/u] This trade makes sense to me. The Canadiens are not going to sign Souray (and why would they). Ohlund could come in at a good price and replace Souray. Ohlund is big and has good offensive / defensive abilities. A better package for less money. Ryder fits the bill of a scoring winger to play with Morrison and Naslund, and probably cou...
Life after death……or in Buffalo’s case, life after Drury and Briere, is it time for fans to prepare for what seems now to be our inevitable fate? Like an Atheist afraid of death Buffalo Sabres fans must now seriously ponder what the world will look like if the two captains leave. As was reported on TSN.ca earlier today Briere looks to be gone. Combine the fact th...
1st Day Free Agent Signings: Todd White: Atlanta Thrashers 4 year 2.4 Million per year Tom Poti: Washington Capitals 4 year 3.5 Million per year Richard Zednik: Florida Panthers 2 year 1.6 Million per year Brett McLean: Florida Panthers 3 year 1.7 Million per year Mathieu Schneider: Anaheim Ducks 2 year 5.6 Million per year Daniel Briere: Philedelphia Fly...
Well somehow it seems fitting that a player named Jed Ortmeyer signed yesterday with the Nashville Predators (let the hayseed, hick and redneck jokes begin!). It's not like we weren't already the punching bag of the league but now we give them more fodder for jokes! I understand that not all signings can be the Chris Drury's, Scott Gomez's and Paul Kariya's but dee...
Luongo07 writes...

The Hardest Pill To Swallow

Posted Monday | Comments 0
With Vancouver Canucks seemingly press against the salary cap I am willing to give General Manager Dave Nonis some slack but in the same breathe when players of this ilk are sitting there with zero compensation (except $$$) why haven't we heard the slightest rumor of a player coming to Vancouver.Fact of the matter is that you can go over the cap in the off-season you just ...
Not only do we lose our own top free agents, but apparently we will not be signing any. Can anyone at Hockeybuzz or anywhere else please explain to the 5 remaining Islander fans what the plan is going to be? Are they going to go with youth and try to build through the next 3 drafts a la Pittsburgh? Are they going to get a bunch of reclamation projects for Ted Nolan w...
predjoe writes...

We Need A Hero!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Can Jason Arnott be the hero the Nashville Community needs? While the fate of the Nashville Predators continues to twist in the wind of uncertainty one thing came to mind. We need a hero! Bonnie Tyler style… Where have all good men gone And where are all the gods? Where’s the street-wise Hercules To fight the rising odds? Goalie Chris Mason recently pur...
As most Islanders' fans knew, Snow gambled the Isles future on Ryan Smyth. Not only at the deadline giving up two former 1st rounders along with a future one, but after the season ended with the 8 Year, $40 Million Contract Smyth was reportedly offered. Putting all his eggs in one basket, Snow battled until Ryan signed the dotted line with Colorado missing out on a few key...
This is the first year since 1996 that I just flat out have no idea how the Islanders are going to do. Remember during the wonderful Colgate-and-Stan Fischler looking jersey era the teams that we had? I pretty much knew out of the gate that we were going to suck that year. And remember when we got our real jersey's back the teams that we had ('99-'01)? Man, I DEFINATEL...
FrankD writes...

Draft Sleepers?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I was just wondering what people thought about sleepers in this year's draft. A lot of scouts and experts projected Angelo Esposito as a #1 prospect in 05/06, and he wasn't taken till the 20th pick from The Penguins. Similarally, Alexei Cherapanov was projected to be in the top 10 at one point, if not the top 5 and wasn't snagged till the 17th pick from the Rangers. Do ...
After reading all of the Negative Blogs on the Sabres and All of the Press of the Former Captains Whom Will Remain Nameless. I figured I would write about something that could get the fans Smiling again. See We have a Terrific Team, Two players dont make a team and as far as Im concerned this team is headed in the right direction THE FUTURE. So thinking in the future....
I have been all around the Blues prospect camp this week and I have been impressed with the amazing talent and skill that is being shown out there by some of the Blues brightest young stars. Some we will see sooner than others, but the future of St. Louis Blues hockey is going to be amazing. Here are some of the players that were quite impressive: (in no particular order) ...
Continuing my analysis, here's the Northwest Division: [b]Calgary Flames[/b] Major Additions [b]Cory Sarich (5 yrs, $18 million)[/b] - Sarich is a good physical d-man, but he will not replace the offense of Hamrlik and Stuart. He is a Keenan type player. I think he is a little over payed for what he does. [b]Owen Nolan (1 yr, $1.75 million)[/b] - Nolan used to ...
The Predators announced today that they have resigned defensemen Greg Zanon and Kevin Klein as well as tough guy forward Darcy Hordichuk. While these are signings that will barely be a blip on the NHL radar for PReds fans these are huge! [b]Greg Zanon[/b] quickly became a fan and coach favorite with his unselfish playing style that saw him lead the team in blocked shot...
61 writes...

Free Agency: Halfway through July

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Well, this is my first HB blog, so I hope it's a good one. I think with this blog I will have more than the real CBJ blogger, surprise surprise. I can't follow Howson. I don't get why he isn't signing a Sutton or Tanabe for even one year. Then after this season ends, Foote and Fedorov's contracts are up and we can either sign Sutton or Tanabe for a longer contract, or l...
jnamio writes...

"I'm Not Dead Yet!"

Posted Monday | Comments 0
I'm guessing that it is a safe bet that I wouldn't want to be Timmy P from the Philly Enquirer today. If I was a real bitch, I'd email him (again) and remind him (again) that Roenick's text message retirement announcement was never confirmed. But I'll be a good girl. I'll just email him the article from The Hockey News instead. And it must be a full moon, the Ariz...
falvai writes...

When will Gainey Learn

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
After a season mostly remembered for controvery, you'd think the Habs would be a little weary to take on someone elses problems. Rumours they are interested in Nikolai Zherdev however, tell us that nothing has changed. The 06-07 season started with a lot of promise. The Canadiens were near the top of the league and stronger than they had been in years... until the pr...
Calgary Flames - C Key Acquisitions: Owen Nolan, Adrian Aucoin, Cory Sarich Question Marks: Offensive Production, Mike Keenan One of the best defensive teams in the league got better and deeper on defense this off season. The additions of Cory Sarich and Adrian Aucoin make one of the best bluelines in the league better and solidifies the Flames as one of the ...
With all the action in the Northeast (Edit - Atlantic), it's going to wind up being a very interesting year. I suppose these would be some of the bigger questions on one's mind at the moment: Will the Rangers actually benefit with Gomez and Drury? Can the Flyers make a move up the ladder? Will the Penguins be able to rally behind Fleury? Has Guerin warranted...
Yeah, I know your all thinking another leaf line blog, but its summer I need something to do. [b]Blake-Sundin-Tucker Bell-Wellwood-Steen Poni-Stajan-Antropov Kilger-Pohl-Williams Kaberle-Kubina McCabe-Coli White-Gill[/b] [u] [b]PP1[/u] Poni-Sundin-Antropov/tucker McCabe-Kaberle [u]PP2[/u] Blake-Wellwood-Steen Kubina-Coli/white[/b] PK is still an issue ...
What are the Rangers going to do next? Although the Rangers should be content with what they have done this off-season, especially considering that they do not have alot of cap room, rumors continue to swirl about a big move that they are planning. I've heard the Rangers are interested in Ed Jovanovski and Michael Peca and they are yet to resign Sean Avery and Marcel Hossa...
I just got home from the ceremonies inducting Brian Burke, Bret Hull, Dennis Kearns and Bob Hall into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame here in Penticton BC. It was an absolutely amazing ceremony mc'd as usual by former BCTV sportscaster Bernie Pascal. This is an annual event sells out every year and this year was no different. Anybody that is able to come to this event should as...
Well Lets start be saying that I believe in Darcy, Lindy, Mr. Quinn & Mr. Galisano. They Brought this team back from near expolsion. Back when the Knox brothers brought the Sabres into the NHL, they had a dream and a hope that this team could and would be great. The Sabres were one of the quickest teams to make the Stanley cup finals. They had Great players and a g...
[b]Boston Bruins[/b] Major Additions [b]Peter Schaefer (trade with Ottawa)[/b] - Schaefer will make Boston better because he's a very good penalty killer and he can score at least 15-20 goals a season. The Bruins only had to give up a 2 goal (last season) guy in Sean Donovan. [b]Manny Fernandez (trade with Minnesota)[/b] - By acquiring Fernandez, Boston shored up ...
Its been a great offseason for the Rangers. They signed two top tier centers to long term deals and retained their core group of players, with the exception of Nylander and Cullen. But its not too late to botch the job. Critics have already labeled this offseason as a return to the "Same Old Rangers". I dont believe that to be true but that is a dicussion of its own. What ...
duckyjets writes...

Edmontons Prospects

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I dont know about you Oiler fans out there but I just can't waite to see Cogliano and Shremp play. I wonder how long it's going to take for them to make the team and see some NHL action. Cogliano reminds me of a young Kariya. The speed that he saktes with the puck is amazing. Shremp seems to me to have hands of gold this kid should be a welcome addition to the oilers in te...
ChaosCris writes...

Sabres Made Right Moves

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
A month ago when the Sabres lost Chris Drury, Daniel Briere and Danius Zubrus in the span of about a week Sabres fans wanted someone's head. I think now that they have settled down a bit and took a step back, they have realized, the Sabres aren't all that bad. The biggest loss of the three is definitely Chris Drury and he will certainly be the [img:right]http://nyrange...
FrankD writes...

NHL 2008 from EA Sports

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I was in the store the other day browsing around through video games. I saw on the shelf a bunch of "preorder now" signs for all of the upcoming EA Sports games. Then I saw it, NHL 2008. No different than any other NHL game since 2000, but still...updated rosters! Hurray! Oh yes, and need I forget. Eric Staal on the cover??! Come on now. Here's the deal: I'm a ...
Leafer93 writes...

Northeast Division Preview

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I'm going to look at all six divisions, starting with the home of the Leafs, the Northeast Division. NORTHEAST DIVISION: Boston Bruins: The sad-sack Bruins have done little to improve their team from last season. The major upgrade was bringing in goalie Manny Fernandez from Minnesota; however, Fernandez may have inflated numbers due to time spent on the defensive-min...
DucksFan07 writes...

The 2007/08 Ducks Lineup

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Dear Hockey Friends, Without much input or blogging from our resident Ducks guy coupled with my nervous waiting for a couple of key decisions from the Ducks, I thought I would step in and pre-empt how I think the Ducks will likely start the season. Kunitz - McDonald - Bertuzzi (the rookie Bobby Ryan may see some time) May - Getzlaf - Perry Moen - Pahlsson - R. Nied...
Much is being made of Nashvilles support levels for the Predators coming from various levels of government. Some might be suggesting that Nashvillians don't truly support their team if they don't want to see tax dollars spent on it. Of course, it should be remembered that CANADIANS didn't want to see their tax dollars going to fund hockey teams either. In this blog I ...
I have been posting this question on other oilers blogs that I have seen recently. I just do not understand why Kevin Lowe and MacT dont play their young talened players more then they do. When I look around the NHL and see teams like Chicago, Buffalo, Anaheim, L.A and many others giving their young players a shot at the big show and the oilers ignoring theirs leaving them...
Is it possible that Trevor Linden is delaying this contract status to show to Vigneault that benching Linden for so many games last year was a mistake? If Canucks fans can remember, Linden was benched lots throughout the season, even after a 2 goal game, even after one of his best games of the season. When he was put with the Sedins, he had many chances, hit the post a ...
With this being my first blog entry at Hockeybuzz, I figured I'd start by doing a general outline of the Canucks in the offseason and the team at its current state. The team, even though they finished top of the Northwest Division (Typically considered the most balanced, if not hardest, division in the league. Though I'd have probably given hardest to Pacific), we...
I've been thinking a lot lately about our upcoming Blueshirts.. some have only played a few games in the big league, while continuing to dominate the minor leagues, but I am curious what you all think about the following. [b]Dawes[/b] - Small guy, but great hands. He's a pure goal scorer.. [b]Staal[/b] - Big guy, an offensive-defenseman from what I've read/seen... perh...
John Tonelli writes...

Giordano Off to Russia

Posted Saturday | Comments 11
For all you Flame fans, I'm here to break the news that the emerging offensive Flame defenseman is off to hone his skills in Russia. According to a very close source to the situation, the Flames are opting to go with a veteran line-up and a run for the cup. Giordano a RFA, was offered a two way deal to stay with the Flames for half of the $800,000 he will receive in Russia...
It is the management's responsibility to the owners and to the fans you pay the tickets to keep salary to a minimum, it is the player's agents responsibility to get as much for their clients as possible. If we are to look at the Giordano signing in Russia for a minute and get past the initial shock of it we know a few things, that the flames were offering around just over ...
Over the next few weeks, leading up to training camp, I have decided to do team previews for each team in the Northwest. First will be the Minnesota Wild. [b]Key Acquisitions:[/b] F - Eric Belanger, D - Sean Hill, F - Petr Kalus [b]Key Losses:[/b] G - Manny Fernandez, F - Todd White [b][u]Forwards:[/u][/b] [b]Overall: B[/b] The forward squad will, essentially...
mslepp writes...

Taratukhin to Russia???

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
It appears Calgary Flames highly touted prospect Andrei Taratukhin has signed a 3 year deal to play in Russia following Mark Giordano's lead. Former Flame Jamie Lundmark is also in Russia for next season. If this is true, it's a huge blow to the Flames as Taratukhin's likely next step was to make the roster for the upcoming season. Taratukhin is still under his entry-l...
[img:right]http://www.thelavinagency.com/images/bios/iginla.jpg[/img]Since the Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2004, the Calgary Flames have had high expectations since. The organization has struggled during the playoffs since their appearance in 2004, they lost to the Anaheim Ducks in 2006, then the Detroit Red Wings in 2007, both in the first round respectively. Calgary ...
TheStig writes...

2007-2008 Leafs Lineup

Posted Monday | Comments 0
There have been a number of discussions in the last few weeks regarding the line combinations and pairings the leafs will use in the upcoming season, so I figured I might as well toss my hat into the ring. [u][b]Goaltending[/b][/u] The best option is to use a 60/40 split between Toskala and Raycroft, Toskala has never played the 65-70 games a #1, but is still a v...
It's about that time for Fantasy Hockey drafts and I have a few ideas on sleepers and busts for the upcoming season. A bunch of us Hockeybuzzers got together and created a yahoo league and had the draft last night. It was good fun and if you'd like to take a peak inside the draft results, have a look-see at the link below. -[url]http://hockey.fantasysports.yahoo.com/hoc...
[img]http://www.sabresalumni.com/2001/playerpics/turgeon-draft.gif[/img] I was going to do Part 3 on Dale Hawerchuk but since it seems appropriate I thought I would do it on Mr.Pierre Turgeon. Turgeon's 91-92 career pretty much was a wash with the Sabres but ended strong with the Islanders since he was part of a trade for Pat LaFontaine........... and since I a...
So, the draft for my fantasy hockey league was this weekend. I went second from last, so my top picks (the usual -- Crosby, Ovechkin, Chris Mason) were long gone. I got most of my other requested players, though. This is going to be a tough league. In addition to my Hockey Husband, who is running the league, we have Hockey Buzz bloggers Paul McCann and Brandon Felder, p...
For many people this time of year is as exciting as Christmas. It’s hockey season. The weather is cooler and training camps are opening. Here in Nashville it’s been one of those off seasons that everyone would just soon forget. The Predators fans are ready for some hockey talk that involves the actual game of hockey and not the business of hockey. We are tired of h...
Clint Malarchuk was a candid goaltender that when he spoke the quote stuck with him and they were funny. The Chuk as most of my friends called him when we were growing up was always fun to watch when Darren Puppa wasn't in the net. Of course Darren was always our favorite because we made fun of his last name but when the Chuk would get onto the ice we would make just a...
clarasax writes...

O Captain, My Captain

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Jason Arnott has been named captain of the Nashville Predators for the 2007-2008 season. Brilliant choice. Do you know why that was a brilliant choice, my friends? Because Jason Arnott once saved his dog's life by giving it CPR after it had fallen into a swimming pool. THAT is the kind of leadership we need on the team, people. (Congrats to Arnott, a great p...
Last night during the Canucks preseason opener, Ryan Shannon stepped up and made everyone take notice of him. My sentiments were echoed by the Canucks website this morning(I'm glad I beat them to it) 5 on 5 he was lined up with Byron Ritchie and Mason Raymond(Also vying for a roster spot) and could have set up two goals for Raymond, had Ilya Bryzgalov not been on his game....
MJCULE writes...

RAV to be intact?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
today after the skate lindy ruff held a brief presser (http://sabres.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=337685). in this news conference he stared that he intends on keeping one of the most exciting lines for the sabres last year(RAV) together. this article also states that the rest of the forwards will look like this opening night. Vanek...
I started riding a mountain bike three years ago dropped about sixty pounds and like some of us I tend to get big head when I start having success. Just when I start thinking I’m all that is about when my riding buddies take me out and either seriously school me on a really big hill or they bust a rib laughing at me chipping a tooth on a rock garden I usually ride clean....
Before moving to the Top 10 list, I wanted to comment on the events that occured last night in the Flyers/Senators pre-season game. The injury to Dean McAmmond is on the minds of all hockey fans, as it should be. The hit by Flyers prospect Steve Downie was unconscionable and flat out wrong. Irrespective of what Colin Campbell does, Downie should - and will - be punish...
xmyth writes...

Unsubstantiated Season Preview

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I have no facts. I have no stats. I have no research, quotes, contacts. All I have is my opinion, but, as most of you know (begrudgingly), that is worth a fair bit. Did you come here for an in-depth analysis of teams, perhaps hoping for some outside speculation about your home team? If so, leave now. It will spare you disappointment beyond the shame you must feel ...
1) Minnesota - 105 pts (3rd seed) 2) Calgary - 102 pts (5th seed) 3) Vancouver - 97 pts (7th seed) 4) Colorado - 96 pts (8th seed) 5) Edmonton - 77 pts It all comes down to Nicklas Backstrom and Marion Gaborik in the hockey mad state of Minnesota. Nicklas Backstrom should have a great season for the Wild. He's never been a starter in the NHL, but he's succeeded in e...
predjoe writes...

Feeling Different

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
This opening night feels different. There is no other way to say it…it just feels different. This is the ten year anniversary of this team. I was there at it’s birth and thought that today I would feel like a proud parent…but instead I feel empty inside. With so much uncertainty this Pred fan is fatigued. That is why I have not posted in forever. I couldn’t brin...
[b]Originally posted on [url]www.PredNation.com[/url][/b] This article must begin with apologies on my part for the delays in posting this article. I’ve mentioned several times before that I’m not a journalist. A combination of my real job as a software engineer as well as a couple of rounds of illness has managed to really put a dent into my schedule. The dela...
predjoe writes...

Crotch - Bang!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Statement made. That's the way I look at last night's 4-0 Predators win over the Colorado Avalanche. Statement made. Yes I know that one game does not a season make but Colorado is a good team...a team everyone is predicting to make the playoffs. They are loaded with fire power and the off-season addition of Ryan Smyth gives this team yet another weapon. None the...
agreen3 writes...

The Brady Bunch

Posted Friday | Comments 0
How it must feel to be a father of an NHL player. I have two kids in my life and I could not imagine how proud one could feel to see them play in the NHL. Off-course all children’s parents will love there children no matter what they end up doing, that being said if I ever have the privilege of seeing a member of my family play this great game at the highest level I woul...
Just listening to the Avs vs. Sharks game - and Mr. Paul Stastny has 1g 4a in this game, while having a hat trick on opening night, which brings him to 8points in 3games. And i got him in 3 of my Fantasy Teams :-) I knew this kid would rock this season, and i also did believe he would have a fair shot at the 100 point mark - but this much improvement and absolute domina...
To my surprise, I read this morning that the Canucks shipped Shannon down to the AHL team in the minors. [url]http://canucks.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=339792[/url] Maybe I am reading too much into this, but is this move for good ? From all accounts Shannon had a very good pre-season and training camp, he was on everyone's top list...
Canucks12 writes...

Van v.s EDM Game preveiw.

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Edit: Canucks.com Made it official, Rick Rypien is up and is expected to play. Canucks are 1-2-0 Edmonton is 2-2-0. The Canucks have just re-assign Ryan Shannon who ha 2 goals but was the leagues worste +/- with -7, according to CDC forums Team1040 sports radio is reporting that we have called up Rick Rypien, Witch Canucks.com has confirmed. I have no clue who the Canucks...
Hello everyone, and welcome to my first blog here on MYHB, First of all, you will have to excuse me for my English, which is not perfect since i'm one of those Frenchies in Quebec City, but I will do my best. I will start from the very beginning. It was a saturday, back in october 2005. I woke up, and somehow, i had this idea of doing a Website and a petition, in ord...
the lines at practive today were... Hagman - Modano - Lehtinen Morrow - Ribeiro - Eriksson Lundqvist - Halpern - Miettinen Jokinen - Barnes - Winchester Fedoruk - Ott - Barch Daley - Zubov Norstrom - Robidas Niskanen - Boucher OK, so I hope this is not the exact example for what will be played in the game tonight.... I dont like Hagman with Mo and Lehts, ...
aisforaaron83 writes...

stars v. jackets recap

Posted Thursday | Comments 4
Stars eek out the win in the shootout. Smitty is perfect against the 6 shootout shooters he has faced. Jussi got the only shootout goal for dallas to put us on top. He looked like he was going to swing wide and try the dangle he is known for, but he saw that Norrena was expecting that and turned with the puck to slide it, more forcefully, in the puck-sized hole between the...
predjoe writes...

Preds Fall Again

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I’ve said it before and I'll say it again. I hate writing after a Preds loss and the way this season is going I may have to a ton of this writing. The Preds lost their fourth straight against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Ducks last night in a 3-1 game. I know I am going to sound like a homer here but this game could have easily gone the other way. The Pr...
sstrang writes...

The Act of Jumping Ship

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Another blog in a series of blogs that focus on the game outside of scores and reviews, here's one that deals with band wagons and jumping ship... There are purists out there (mostly Leaf and Hab fans) that believe you root for one team your whole life - win or lose, whiners or not - they are YOUR team. I do believe that once you are grown up enough to make a tough deci...
mslepp writes...

Battle of Alberta pt.1

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I haven't had the opportunity to watch many Flames games this year while living in Vancouver, but of the games I have watched, this was Calgary's best game. I slam Dwayne Roloson every chance I get. I feel he's the most overrated goaltender in the league. But he's played well in both of the last 2 games. If he continues to play well, it should allow the Oil to gain...
No, Im not an Islander fan. This is coming from a die-hard Rangers fan who knows an undeniable fact when he sees one. The Rangers came off a brilliant second half and playoffs last season and looking poised to make a Cup run. [img:left]http://ordinaryleastsquare.typepad.com/blueshirtbulletin/images/jagrgroin.jpg [/img]In the offseason they added Drury and Gomez and los...
First and foremost, this is my first blog and I will hopefully get the hang of this very shortly. I am a sophomore student at Connecticut College and I am a tremendous New York Islanders Fan. Although I attend college in Connecticut, I still have season tickets for the past 5 years (obviously excluding the lockout season), and I attend an average of 36 games at the ...
Randy Jones was handed a two-game suspension today by Colin Campbell. While it may not be the number of games everyone wanted, this is probably the right suspension. While I don't think that Randy Jones was in any way trying to injure Patrice Bergeron, he does need to be a little more cognizant of the possibility of injuring him in that situation. I am sick of reading a...
Well the first month of the season is complete and the Sabres are a .500 team. How do you think the team's Captains for October did? Here are the stats of these players: Player GP G A P +/- PIM PP SH GW S S% Jochen Hecht 10 3 4 7 1 4 0 0 0 32 9.4 Henrik Tallinder 10 0 2 2 -3 10 0 0 0 6 0.0 ...
predjoe writes...

Oh Danny Boy!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
That’s the song that Pred Nation is singing this morning (that is if they are awake after the 10p central start last night!). Once again Dan Ellis is called upon and for the third time in a row he answers with a win and his second shutout in three starts. To say that he might be a hot goalie right now might be an understatement. The Preds had a solid game plan las...
Well...not quite the same verse (it would have to have been a shut out to do that) but it was close enough as Dan Ellis led the Preds to a 4-1 victory on the road tonight against the Edmonton Oilers. Once again Ellis made some huge saves at critical times...the toe save against Hemsky when the game was knotted at 1-1 was very big! Great play tonight from Arnott and Legw...
Luongo07 writes...

New Era?

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It's been awhile, whatelse can I say. In the busy life that I lead, I have been unable to follow the Canucks as closely as I have in past season. So far this season it seems to be a good thing. With that being said it seems that we will all be looking for "other things" to occupy our minds while the Canucks play out what appears to be a rather dissmal season. Yes, it i...
Its a sad day for me! Even with all the people who dont like Lindros for what he did not wanting to play for the Nordiques. I over looked that aspect and respecting him as a player, person and somewhat of a childhood idol. I played hockey growning up in the late 80's and 90's in Los Angeles and Gretzky was about to be traded to the Kings. I choose to look up to Lindros sin...
TheGrandTetons writes...

Modano's Milestone

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Most of you are probably aware of this but Mike Modano of the Dallas Stars became the highest-scoring American in NHL history last night during Dallas' easy victory over the San Jose Sharks. The six-time all-star surpassed Phil Housley's record during the game and is currently sitting on a record of 1,233 points in 1,253 regular-season games -- 242 games fewer than Housley...
predjoe writes...

Lindros A Hall Of Famer

Posted Friday | Comments 0
So I went to check TSN.CA's ([u]http://tsn.ca/nhl/[/u])NHL page and they have one of their polls up there. This time is asks the simple question, "Is Eric Lindros a Hall of Famer?" As of this writing the results are a lopsided 71% no to 29%. I took some time to break down the numbers that Lindros posted in his career. Games Played 760 Goals 372 Assits ...
Having lived in Vancouver for just about a year now, I've had the esteemed privelage of attending 4 Canuck games. All of which I lovingly cheer for my Flamers' division rival, but more importantly, cheering for a good game. The Canucks are 0-4 in the games I have attended, including a loss last year late in the season to the Flames! They are currently marred in a 7.5 pe...
Ok so I am posting this a few days after the appointment of Hull and Jackson as interim co-general managers in Dallas. This whole interim co-GM thing seems to me that Hicks wants Jackson to train Hull so that Hull can take over as the man in Dallas. I don’t mind Hull as a co-gm as long as he is just the sideline guy that is there to learn the position. Jackson has been i...
Living in Ottawa, it was natural I would become a Senators' fan after years of cheering for Steve Yzerman and the Wings... Heck, finally I could rant and rave about a team in my own backyard! I could randomly run into players from the NHL on nearly a weekly basis (gotta know the right clubs)... But, a few years back the team took a huge step in the wrong direction for...
frankster writes...

Stars cook Ducks

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
On Mike Modano night. Modano tied the game in 3rd period. Nick Hagman scored the wiiner shortly after on another powerplay goal. This contest was close to the vest tight checking affair. The ducks dominated the 1st period scoring the lone tally. J.S. Gigiurre was sharp in goal. Happy Thanksgiving to all it was a nice game to be at!!
Sabrefan44 writes...

Dear Max,

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It's over. Time to divide up the china, pick who get's the dog, pack up the stuff and part ways. It's been a fun ride in your time here, but I finally feel you've overstayed your welcome. It's not you it's me. The team has moved on from your freewheeling style, and we don't have room to truly let you grow. In past years we had players here that we could count on to m...
Sabrefan44 writes...

Dear Max,

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It's over. Time to divide up the china, pick who get's the dog, pack up the stuff and part ways. It's been a fun ride in your time here, but I finally feel you've overstayed your welcome. It's not you it's me. The team has moved on from your freewheeling style, and we don't have room to truly let you grow. In past years we had players here that we could count on to m...
predjoe writes...

Answering The Bell

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]Answering the bell[/b]...that seems to be exactly what the Preds Thursday night in Ottawa with a 6-5 win over the Senators. Every time that they were challenged by the Senators they answered. The Preds jumped out to a quick lead with a early powerplay goal in the first minute of the game. Ottawa would answer and tie it but instead of folding or laying back the Preds...
predjoe writes...

Oh My...What A Comeback

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Okay...just finished watching this on DVR and all I can say is wow! Down 4-1 with less than ten minutes to play and the Preds come back to win in 5-4 in a shootout! Don't have a ton of time right now but some quick thoughts... [b]Work finally paid off for Jed Ortmeyer[/b]. Not only did he have a ton of chances tonight but he has been playing hard all year for us. I have...
It's frustrating. Two periods into a matchup with the Bruins and I can't take it anymore. Just put the puck in the net already!! This offensive struggle has the Isles on the verge of losing [i]3 out of their last 4 [/i]and continue to slip in the standings. This day last season the Isles were 14-9-3 (31 Points in 26 games). Viktor Kozlov netted 4 as the Isles beat th...
deadmarsh20a writes...

The Return of LaBarbera

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Now living in L.A. and reading the spordaic L.A. Times Column on the Kings has taught me one thing I already knew, everyone wants Jason back. I pose you this question, why? Yes he was robbed of AHL MVP last year and yes he is the best goalie we have short of forcing a strike in the juniors ending their season early and getting Bernier back. But without we fell to the l...
The offensive team is cycling the puck deep in the zone, the defenders are forced to react and hope for a miscue...the puck squirts free and the defender banks the puck off the side wall. From the minute the puck caroms off the boards, it looks questionable whether or not it will make it to the end line. [img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_Delayed_...
[b]While winning one game stops a losing streak[/b] I don't know how far it will go in turning the Preds season back around. Truth be told I can't get real excited about a home win against the LA Kings. The only thing I knew going into last nights game was one of these poorly playing teams had to win...there was no way around that. [b] The Preds came out flying[/b] and ...
Maxim61 writes...

Whiney Flyers' Fans

Posted Monday | Comments 0
WE ARE TOUGH...LET US PLAY THE GAME...LET THE PLAYERS POLICE THE GAME... then we hear... Look what they did...give them a suspension...why me? WHYYYYYYYYY...???? In the latest reach for getting someone else suspended, Flyer fans lead by one Tim P accuse Max Afinogenov of 1.) slew footing and 2.) kicking Scott Upshall. If you are an objective hockey fan, you can ...
deadmarsh20a writes...

Pick Up Samsonov

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
When the Hawks put Samsonov on waivers I thought that his career was over and he would retire gracefully. I then pulled up his stat sheet and realized he is still only twenty-nine. Sergei still has the chance to turn it around and finish with a decent career. Not this year but maybe next. So who should give him this opportunity? The L.A. Kings of course. He is set to...
Number23 writes...

Fading of the Nordiques...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
As a follow-up to my blog on the dwindling number of former [b]Winnipeg Jets[/b] still playing in the NHL, here's the breakdown of the one-time [b]Quebec Nordiques[/b]: [u][b]Players[/b][/u] [b]Adam Foote[/b]-CBS [b]Martin Gelinas[/b]-NSH [b]Jon Klemm[/b]-LA [b]Aaron Miller[/b]-VAN [b]Owen Nolan[/b]-CGY [b]Martin Rucinsky[/b]-STL [b]Joe Sakic[/b]-COL (the only re...
predjoe writes...

Solid Win

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]The Preds posted an impressive 5-2 win[/b] over the Edmonton Oliers who continue to find Nashville a tough place to play losing their fourth straight appearance here. Getting two goals from Alexander Radulov, a goal and an assist from captain Jason Arnott, a short handed goal from Jared Smithson and JP Dumont added a powerplay goal in a game that the Preds seemed t...
First off - a result from last night. The Nottingham Panthers shutout the Hull Stingrays 2-0 in Nottingham, goals coming from Steve Pelletier on the powerplay, and Patrik Wallenberg got his 20th of the season. Panthers NM Tom Askey returned to the side after a short absence, and both he and Stingrays NM Ladi Kudrna were in good form. This probably aided Hull's chances of w...
Number23 writes...

North Stars going south...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In my last review of how relocated teams' history is vanishing, I'm reviewing the remaining [b]Minnesota North Stars[/b]. The North Stars are different than the former WHA franchises I've previously profiled, in that they had the longest history in the NHL before moving. As such, you'll see that there are few remaining players, but a larger Next Generation. Also, they'r...
[b]"The Code"[/b] If you were to look in the Webster's Dictionary of Hockey for a definition, you would probably come up empty. If you were to ask anyone in the game, they might knowingly smile but likely not cough up to much. Some might. Ask a diehard fan what the Code means and he would likely be able to put some walls around it. [b]Action and Reaction:[/b] Thos...
Last nights loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs should say something about this team. It needs a change. While I'm sure there will be plenty to jump to the Cane's side on this, suggesting they are only one or two pieces away from being a legitimate contender, and as much as I love to believe that, they're not. It says something about the team when Sergei Samsonov is t...
Last nights loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs should say something about this team. It needs a change. While I'm sure there will be plenty to jump to the Cane's side on this, suggesting they are only one or two pieces away from being a legitimate contender, and as much as I love to believe that, they're not. It says something about the team when Sergei Samsonov is t...
nephew23 writes...

Stars at home in San Jose!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Long time, no write...but I had to throw in my two cents on the ridiculous non-call last night and the recaps from the San Jose Sharks Staff (website) and the AP. What a joke!!! Rivet's hit on Morrow at the end of the 1st was a clear-cut, textbook boarding penalty. Yet, neither official made the call and at least one of them was starring straight at them! I thought one...
Andy Murray has done a spectacular job turning this team around, despite the recent slide in the standings. But the honeymoon is over with Murray. Crunch time has come, and the team is flailing. One of the knocks on Murray's coaching style is that he loses control of the veteran players as they lose faith in his system, which sounds eerily similar to the Mike Kitchen fi...
mnflyer writes...

Flyers Future

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
How nice is it to be a Flyers fan nowadays? At the All-Star break last season, the Flyers were sitting with 27 points and in the midst of a January where they accumulated four points - yep, four. The O&B were well on there way to the most futile season in the franchise's history. Oh, how times have changed. So far, 2007-2008 has seen our club return to - at th...
Well, I've been quiet all year long on the blog site, and now that I've had time to reflect, and some sleep, here are some things that need to be addressed, IMO. 1. Team doctors screwing up with misdiagnosises Well, it's kind of hard to knock a Dr. on his/her practices if you are not in their shoes. People have been saying the team doctors have dropped the ball w...
Thank you, Bill Guerin ... I've been yapping all year long (for years, actually) about how just getting into the playoffs should [i][b]never [/b][/i]be [i][b]any [/b][/i]team's goal. Ties may be gone in the NHL, but mediocrity is also about as satisfying as kissing your sister, so the analogy remains. While I [i][b]am [/b][/i]grateful to have the Islanders qualifying fo...
[b]From another name in the rumor mill to a foundational player[/b] in the Preds future. JP Dumont has played all parts this past week in the press and I, as a Pred fan, could not be happier in the role he is ultimately cast. There is no denying that JP has been red hot and the Preds had to be fielding calls from interested GM's wondering about the availability of the ...
predjoe writes...

Preds Shutout Canes

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i]*Please take a moment to pray for the people of the south today following last nights horrific storms that have left at least 26 dead in Tennessee alone. In moments like this sport seems so insignificant.[/i] [b]Great win by the Preds last night.[/b] I was unable to attend as I came down with a severe case of strep throat (yup 35 years olds can catch it too!). My par...
Rob McGowan writes...

Happy New Year!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 801
For the first time in the New Year, the Islander's have [b][u][i]FINALLY[/i][/u][/b] won a home game. And despite all the talk of trading for the future and forgetting this season...I gotta say this win did feel good. And you know the Isles were feeling it too, watching Park celebrate after the final buzzer as if he had just scored his first NHL goal. It is pretty depre...
Rob McGowan writes...

Simon Says...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 782
[i]"I missed being around the guys and the team," said Simon after practice. "I'm ready to get back out there and help the team. I've learned from my mistakes. I'm going to try and be the best I can be when I come back. What happened in the past is always going to be there, but I look to now and getting ready for tomorrow."[/i] Luckily when he says tomorrow he means it ...
Texhorns02 writes...

Dallas' dire situation

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Dallas Stars are #2 in the NHL. They have two of the top scorers in the Western Conference playing on their #1 line, one of the best defenders the game has known, the greatest American player, and an elite goalie. Why does no one care about them? I realize Dallas is a football town. I also realize that the Mavericks and Rangers will always get more coverage than the St...
Texhorns02 writes...

Stick a fork in them

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
4-1 Phoenix with 10 minutes left. With 2 minutes left in the 2nd Dallas was down just 2-1. However Mattias Norstrom, being the human pylon that he is, allowed Niko Kapanen to skate right around him to pick up a rebound. Since when is Niko Kapanen a net crasher? Keep him contained and put him on his ass Norstrom. I thought his reputation was as a solid defender and hi...
In the "Salary Cap" world of today's NHL, all teams must configure their rosters to fit within the Cap currently set at $50.3M USD. And this system encourages a bargaining chip - the no trade clause. While general managers employ this for different reasons, it ends up having the same effect. Some will use it to pursue players in the free agent frenzy to assure them of s...
With the Islanders once again currently sitting in 13th place in the East, I'm sure Garth Snow is contemplating the best approach on what to do with the Islanders at the deadline. The Isles are only five points away from the playoffs, but also only 4 points away from finishing last in the East. Five points is not the most difficult task, but with five games remaining un...
Alexander Ovechkin wurde auf einer kleinen Serie vor kurzem Kälte in den letzten beiden Spielen zwar in den sonnigen florida gegen die Panthers und den Lightning. Er hat bis dreizehn Punkten in den letzten zehn Spiele und mit einer negativen eins plus / minus. Alexander dem Großen ist noch mit der Spitze der Liga achtundsiebzig Punkten, nur einen Punkt vor Malkin, mus...
Don't worry, I'm not implying that the Islanders are going to win 7 games in a row after losing 7 in a row, but they are making one hell of an interesting playoff push. With less than a week to go to the deadline, most fans have been speculating as to what Garth Snow will do. Will he pull the trigger on some firesale deals? Will he make a Stillman + Commodore/Eaves + Corvo...
nmhen writes...

A Visit With Norm Green

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Minnesotan hockey fans have the Boogeyman, Derek Boogaard, but there is another boogeyman that haunts their dreams: Norm Green. The man that cut Minnesotan's claim to be the most savvy, passionate, Canadian-like hockey fans in America down a peg or two by moving the North Stars/Stars to Dallas (where they ultimately won the Cup that had eluded Minnesotans for so many ye...
jammer21 writes...

The no trade clause

Posted Saturday | Comments 1
You know too many players are given no trade clauses when Martin Ruchinsky has one. You read that correctly. Yes, Marty Ruchinsky hasn't retired yet, and he has a no trade clause in his contract. There comes a point when the NTC's hamper a team. Just ask the Leafs or the Lightning. Brian Engblom just wrote an excellent blog on the topic, and it really got my gears...
predjoe writes...

What's That Smell?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
What you are smelling is the rotten egg that the Preds laid last night against a very good Dallas Stars team. [b]Where It Went Right:[/b] The first period for the most part was solid and the Preds played step for step with the Stars. It looked like this was going to be a game decided in OT or by a late goal. Both teams were skating hard and playing a physical game. ...
Well, Nonis will have another opportunity tomorrow to prove his worth. And in the last of a 3 year deal himself, he's got some proving still to do. Nonis, like his mentor Burke, doesn't get himself pushed around, but also doesn't sit still. He wants to do a big deal. A big deal that will get him an impact player that will be here for years to come. With so much ...
cvick writes...

K Lowe and Robbie Schremp.

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Ok, so every Oilers fan on the planet thinks that Schremp should get a shot in the big league. We've all seen his ridiculous shootout goals on youtube, and anyone who's never had a lobotomy can see that this guy has some major offensive talent. So why hasn't this kid made it to the big time and scored 25 goals by now? Well, the fact of the matter is, is that the only st...
I was having a look at the recent list of Norris trophy winners and I realized something (other than the fact new Lidstrom plaques are going to replace old ones soon). Why are there no defensive d-men? How come the men that step in front of 100 mph shots, move people out of the net, and in general go above and beyond their job, while managing to keep themselves out of the ...
It's less than a week since the trade deadline, and while the Canucks have picked up 2 of a possible 6 points, they are a disappointing 0-1-2 in that spell. Not only that, the teams top line has gone pointless in those 3 games, and while there has been some secondary scoring, the team seems to be more apathetic as the games go by. Even Luongo's passion has diminishe...
The Ducks have had consecutive wins and we haven't changed barely anything! Some Ducks fans were hoping for Hossa or Holik all I was hoping for was a simple draft pick! All Burke landed was Begeron, J.S. Aubin and a draft pick! Now I am someone who always loves for my team to rack up on the picks especially in a deep draft like this one. Maybe we did not land superstars...
[i]"We ask him over and over again not to play the puck as much," Nolan said of DiPietro. "He's one of the best puck-handlers in the league, but you just can't overhandle it. When you overhandle it, you get yourself in trouble a little bit."[/i] Sounds like Ted Nolan is just a tad bit frustrated with DiPietro making mistakes handling the puck in consecutive games which ...
Rob McGowan writes...

The New York Sound Tigers

Posted Saturday | Comments 548
"It would be foolish to think we're rushing him in any way," Snow said. "He's been one of the best forwards in Bridgeport, averaging just under a point a game. "He's earned a chance to put on an Islanders uniform and play at the NHL level. At the end of the day, it will be a good opportunity for him to compete. In no way are we rushing him. He's proven he's capable of p...
Ask anyone, whether it be bloggers, journalists, coaches or players, and the universal response to the question "How many points will it take to make the playoffs in the Western Conference?" would probably be 94 or 95 points. The Calgary Flames are embroiled in the tightest points race in hockey, the Northwest Division race, a remarkable logjam of a division that, if it co...
[i]Wade Dubielewicz gets the start tonight and Joey MacDonald has been recalled from Bridgeport of the American Hockey League. Rick DiPietro will have an MRI on his hip this afternoon and the Islanders expect to have results on Wednesday.[/i] -Taken from the Isles web-site Isn't that fantastic?! Our star-netminder that is here for another 13 years is having an MRI on...
Hockey has been one of the greatest things to ever enter my life. In most generations, kids get into hockey when they're young, very young. Sometimes even at the ages of five or six. I know a lot of people that have played hockey up through the years of middle school and then drop it like a bad habit. But the ones who continue on and play for their high school, play colleg...
Why Not ? Who would of thought 2 months ago when the Canucks were tied for 10th place in the Western Conference that with 9 games left in the season they would be within striking distance of defending the Northwest division that they won in style last year. Let me tell you I for sure didn't, I assumed we were doomed with Nashville and Phoenix knocking at the doo...
RITBeast writes...

RIT Hockey 2007-2008 Recap

Posted Friday | Comments 1
So, for those unfamiliar, I'm a fan of college hockey in general, but particularly the Rochester Institute of Technology's team. There was big news in the land of RIT Tigers Hockey today as Simon Lambert was listed as a top 10 finalist for the Hobey Baker award. Not bad for a guy who started his college career in division III, wasn't drafted by the NHL and isn't even on ...
In a game that looked and felt like a genuine playoff tilt, the Calgary Flames edged out the Minnesota Wild 5-4 on the strength of a natural hat trick by Jarome Iginla and goals by Dion Phaneuf and Matthew Lombardi. Flames fans in the 'Dome were treated to not only this outstanding effort by their captain, but a critically important flash of opportunism by the boys in red....
It's been a long time since Calgary has had THAT defenseman. The guy who was going to score goals and shut down the other team. Robyn Regehr has been a stalwart for years, but his offensive output is limited, relegating him to be simply a shut-down d-man... extremely important, but in a different regard. Dion has shown Calgary Flames fans and the league that he's going ...
[img:right]http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/afp/20070408/capt.sge.nek63.080407234906.photo00.photo.default-512x379.jpg[/img] So the silence has been broken and Wade Dubielewicz has come out to say like many other players heading towards free agency, that Long Island is his home, he wants to stay and remain an Islander, and is happy playing for them. But when did he actu...
[img:right]http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/afp/20070408/capt.sge.nek63.080407234906.photo00.photo.default-512x379.jpg[/img] So the silence has been broken and Wade Dubielewicz has come out to say like many other players heading towards free agency, that Long Island is his home, he wants to stay and remain an Islander, and is happy playing for them. But when did he actu...
Well, if there was any doubt on the fate of the Sabres - I called this weeks ago -, they proved tonight why they don't deserve to be one of the 8 Eastern Conference teams left standing for the 2008 NHL postseason. But beware of the spin! In the coming days and weeks, these are the things you'll be hearing from Sabres management, head coach Lindy Ruff, and general manag...
The Calgary Flames rebounded from an abysmal first period, a terribly soft goal, and a 2-0 deficit to defeat the Vancouver Canucks 3-2 tonight at the Saddledome. With the win, Calgary takes the lead in the Northwest Division with 90 points, one more than Minnesota and four more than the Canucks and Colorado Avalanche. This was a huge win for the Flames, who go into a three...
rwrusso writes...

Ryan Miller

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Often a topic of conversation among hockey fans here in Buffalo, along with local media, and possibly throughout the league as well, I have a few thoughts about Ryan Miller. First off, I like Ryan Miller. For the most part I think he's done a solid job in net for the Sabres. I will do my best to detach myself as a Sabres fan and look at the realities facing this team in...
Chic Lillopois writes...

No! Touch-Icing

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Bob McKenzie. Don and Ron. They've all opined on no-touch icing: that it should be banned; that it should be ridiculed as a barbaric law that has hung above us for far too long; that it should be modified. All points have validity, but modification fits most with me. [i]We [/i]fear for the back-checking D - sliding, ankle-first, into the boards. [i]He [...
Jeff Tambellini, who was one of the main reasons Chris Simon was moved which thus allowed him a full-time position, has been sent down to the Islanders Bridgeport affiliate once again this season. I really have to wonder what the organization's feel for Tamby is at this point in his career. He was the first round pick of the L.A. Kings back in 2003, picked at 27th over...
I just did not have the energy to muster a blog post late last night, after the Calgary Flames' 2-1 loss to the Edmonton Oilers at home. So I'll briefly summarize this huge game before detailing how it affects the Flames' division hopes. This game was, in my view, simply a heartbreaker for the Flames, who outshot, outchanced, and had more puck control for the entire game t...
The aftermath of the Calgary Flames' 6-2 embarrassment at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks last night (the game itself really requires no explanation or analysis), should be as clear as day, even to the most tragically optimistic Flames fans: far from winning the division, the Flames must now, just as they did last season, focus their efforts and worries primarily on sim...
jesus the northwest is crazy - if calgary beats minny tomorrow, then THREE teams can win the division title with their last game remaining Option 1 - CGY beats MIN, CGY beats VAN, COL Beats MIN (Calgary wins Title) Option 2 - CGY beats MIN, CGY loses to VAN, COL Beats MIN (Colorado wins Title) Option 3 - CGY beats MIN, CGY beats VAN, MIN beats COL (Minnesota wins Titl...
The Calgary Flames' divisional hopes officially died Thursday night with a 3-1 loss to the Minnesota Wild, who clinch the Northwest with the win. More importantly to Calgary, though, was their failure to get the one point needed to clinch a berth in the playoffs. The Flames remain in 7th place in the West with 92 points, just one above the Nashville Predators and four abov...
Buts16 writes...

Saturday Morning Coffee

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I should be happier but whatever. http://flyerflies.com/blogs/Buts/ enjoy or vent yourself.
It's been a few days now since the season has ended for our beloved franchise, and once again we are sitting on the outskirts of the playoffs looking in, watching other teams compete. All we had was the draft lottery to look forward too, and the hype faded for me almost immediately. Something about seeing Mike Milbury at a panel near the table that would possibly hold the ...
Let me preface this blog entry by saying my true feelings: PURE BITTERNESS. Since the schedule was released I made time for this weekend. I made an opening of a weekend to watch the Wild in their first round playoff match. The six hour drive to St. Paul wasn't too much, especially top stop my desire. However, a monstrous snow storm, unseen to the month of April has hit Min...
10- Hair on face = Proof that player has at least one testicule (most likely 2) 9- You can do cool pictures like this one: 8- You become a father figure for young people everywhere like Mike Mcphee was for me 7- You can match your mustache with a mullet to become the ultimate hockey GOD 6- The mustache can cover their your lips, making lip reading impossib...
Rob McGowan writes...

We Have A Plan!

Posted Thursday | Comments 712
"Average is as close to the top as it is to the bottom, and I'm sick of being average," said Snow. "We've developed a strategy to become competitive every year, which is the key to winning the Stanley Cup. It's called "The Plan." And it involved three parts: drafting wisely, developing prospects and sprinkling in free agents. We're putting in all the resources to bringing ...
I just returned from the Sommet Center viewer night. An unexpected crowd of over 2000 viewed the game and evidently swamped the concession areas prompting a 30 minute "timeout" so they could reload. I'm sure the new ownership group was impressed and encouraged by this turn out as this seasons road to this point has been full of hills and valleys. I would love for the ...
predjoe writes...

No Bigger Than This

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[b]Games don’t get bigger than this[/b]. Win or go home...it will be written countless times about this game so why not one more here too! The Predators face the Red Wings in game 6 of the eastern conference quarterfinals today at 2pm CST...the Wings lead the best of seven series 3-2. [b]Getting Caught Up:[/b] Sorry I did not have a chance to post reactions to game 5 ...
I have to say, with all due respect to Caps fans, I would rather lose like we did, than lose an absolutely heartbreaking game in OT... at home. Yeah, we all hope for a good game, but a good game means a close game and those are so much harder to get over. But what makes this pill easier to handle is to watch the way the Sharks handled themselves after the game, in the ...
watching the Montreal - Philadelphia series I have to wonder why can the Canadiens have French language graphics on the ice as well as dasher boards while there are very few if any Spanish language text advertisements in the United States arenas??? In todays marketing 101, Español/Spanish speaking,reading and writing population is skyrocketing, everywhere we go we get ...
Wow! That was a big sigh of relief you heard from every other team in the league when the Wings lost out in the Fabian Brunnstrom sweepstakes. No other team wants the Wings to have any more weapons. But now this. The Wings don't sign a prospect, they sign a [i]bona fide[/i] star. And how did they do THAT under the radar? [b]Ville Leino[/b], a forward, and this ...
One of the worst things about the offseason is that there is a media blackout. In this cacophony of media silence, there will be slight reprieves as we approach the draft and then the leading up to the UFA period. But, most of us have either found themselves watching the playoffs or frustrating themselves with following baseball. Most hockey teams basically shut down and w...
As recently reported per TSN, Blake is open to the possibility of being traded this summer. There's no question that the Leafs had a very poor season and have spent too much money on players that were not worth the cash, Blake being one of them. His 40 goal season from two years ago was not a part of his game play this year, as he finished with 13 goals and 52 points. ...
With the Playoffs underway and the Stanley Cup taking center stage, there hasn't been too much talk in Islander Country of what to expect at the draft or next season. It's been pretty quiet, and I'll admit I've been waiting for some news, good news in particular...and it seems that I'm still waiting. [b]Wade Dubielewicz will hit the open market[/b] It was stated in N...
Rob McGowan writes...

Getting Antsy

Posted Sunday | Comments 290
With 12 days separating us from the NHL Draft, I believe it's time for the Isles to start locking up some of their key RFA's, but with the exception of Tim Jackman they have yet to do so. Jackman was a solid fourth liner when called upon, but his role is to serve a spot in the minors. That leaves us with Bergenheim, Colliton, Tambellini, Nielsen, Walter, Regier, Brenna...
So I'm sitting back on a lawn chair outside of the cheap motel my friends and I were staying at out in Montauk. Nothing special, just a nice weekend away with everyone on the beach....bonfires, beers, mallows....good times. As a few of us are sitting back with our cold brews, we listen intently to phone calls from home with updates of what's going on at the NHL draft. It w...
For Toronto fans, the Entry Draft 08’ signaled a new age. With the much vaunted clear out in the upcoming months, the draft had all the makings of a cornerstone with which the franchise could rebuild in the next few years. Despite having 10 picks at their disposal, even after the eyebrow raising trade for Jamal Mayers, the Blue Nation was hoping that Toronto could buck...
Drive for Five writes...

Backdraft!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[i]Did you feel it too?[/i] That brief, awkwardly off balance moment. Like taking the extra step in the staircase that isn't there, or lifting the empty milk carton you thought was full. Filatov! Schenn! Wilson? Filatov! Trade! [i]Wait, what?[/i] Trade again! [i]Really?[/i] Josh Bailey! [i]Who?[/i] What just happened? [i]I need to lie down.[/i] [b]Someone call...
By this time tomorrow, many Isles fans may be sitting at their computers disappointed with lackluster results on the day of Free Agency...but many may not. Snow has all ready set up the safety net for the strong possibility of his club not signing any marquee free agents. We saw last year's Free Agency period kick start many Isles fans into an uproar, demanding refunds on ...
I am not going to go crazy about the Islanders draft or their free agent signings to this point because I am somewhat encouraged by what has gone down over the last few weeks. Garth Snow is nothing but honest. He said he would do things to facilitate the rebuilding process and help the club wins some more games. He did, albeit on a minor level. As currently constituted, I ...
With three days all ready passed since the opening of Free Agency, the Islanders seem to be pretty settled with their signings. With the exception of a few possible signings for their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, it's safe to say the Isles are done. First off, before I go on any further, I would like to say, did I call the Doug Weight signing, or did I c...
According to TSN.ca, the Calgary Flames have signed recently bought-out RW Todd Bertuzzi to a one-year deal worth 1.95 million. The move comes just a day after the announcement that Owen Nolan has signed a 2-year pact with the Minnesota Wild for 5.5 million. If anyone has read my previous blogs, they will know what a huge fan I was of Owen Nolan. A lot of people look ...
Since the start of free agency not much has occurred in Islander Country, but the media continues to draw attention to the Snow and Nolan rivalry, and it seems that there is definitely something brewing. The early extension of Brendan Witt definitely raised a few eyebrows. Almost every fan I know was happy about this signing as Witt has been one of our most consistent ...
With the current roster seemingly set in stone and the unlikely return of Mats Sundin who becomes the Leafs next captain? Many things have to be considered here like who has the heart and who will be the best fit in the dressing room. Me I have to give my vote to Matt Stajan he has been around long enough to know how the team works. He has heart and really takes the re...
The Associated Press is reporting Ted Nolan has been fired by the New York Islanders. The team's official Web site has confirmed the move. General Manager Garth Snow on Nolan's ouster: "Ted has helped us achieve some success over the last two seasons, however it has become clear that we have philosophical differences and have decided together to part ways," said Snow...
Strongisland writes...

NOLAN DONE.....

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[img]http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20080714/nolan_47149.jpg[/img] Ted Nolan's rocky reign as Islanders coach is now over. According to reports GM Garth Snow and Ted Nolan have decided to part ways. Kudos to Owner Charles Wang and Co. for giving Ted another go at an NHL bench and getting his foot back in the door, and at YoDingDong we wish Ted the best. This is th...
NYIsles16 writes...

Nolan Voted Off the Island

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
To say I was expecting this would be a tremendous understatement. For the past two weeks I have been saying how we will not be seeing Nolan behind the bench to begin this season. There have been too many problems encompassing our poor Islanders this off-season, and now we've reached the pinnacle. For a long time now, we have seen this tremendous (and public) debacle th...
Well Shark fans, I know it is summer and the last echoes of the playoffs have trailed off, but there is still news to be had for Sharks fans? I know our bloggers are busy folks, but where have they gone Joe Dimaggio? Our teal nation turns it's lonely eyes to you.. What about camp? What about assistants? The big question is: What the hell is up with Ryan Clowe? All this tal...
Will it really make this years team any different than last years? Just because he got paid does that mean he won't give up 3 goal leads to Boston and Philly again?I know its not all him and the D-men were pretty bad but I can't help but wonder what difference will this make. I love the signing and it should show the rest of the club were not rolling over and dying just ...
Rob McGowan writes...

The Future Is Now

Posted Saturday | Comments 757
There's not much to say now about the Ted Nolan firing as it's all been taken care of. From my perspective I have to say that I am not happy that we have lost the best coach that we've had since Peter Laviolette. Teddy was one of the only few bright spots on this team, causing a team of underachievers and overrated veterans to actually be a competitive hockey team. But whe...
Ok so Sundin dosen't stink but the statement is true. If the Canucks do actually land this fat fish it may take up more room in the tank than we can afford. Think about next year (because this is a two year deal) we have dome pretty big signings coming up i.e. Sedins, Edler. Ohlund, Krijacek, Burrows, Shannon, Pettinger, Bernier. Do you see any of these players taking a...
With the summer coming to a close (as much as I want hockey season back, I hope this next month moves like a glacier) the Islanders are working hard to fill the vacancy left by Ted Nolan's removal. The potential candidates have been mentioned constantly in the media. I am confident in who I think should be the next one to take the bench, but the list is filled with man...
TJHockey writes...

Awinagainov Anyone?

Posted Monday | Comments 0
It was just a few years ago when Maxim Afinogenov was loved by many in Buffalo. "MAX NATION" was a craze! You heard a loud "ahhhh" take over the HSBC (Hot Sauce, Blue Cheese) Arena every time he touched puck. Now Max is fading in popularity with his in-ability to play defense which tends to lead him to the BOX. And his mis-conception of how big nhl defensemen really ar...
Holy smokes batman! The Isles have fired and hired yet another coach! Yes, for the umpteenth time the Isles have brought in a new vict-...er I mean coach to lead our guys in the blue and orange. However despite my sarcasm, I do believe this is a coach that can lead this team through changes, necessary changes to help reestablish a winning team on Long Island. Scott ...
drake17 writes...

Most Talented Division

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Most people argue and debate which is the best division, the toughest, weakest and toughest to win. But not many people have thought to see what was the most talented division and i will let you decide with the Allstar Teams for each division. [u][b]Northwest All-Stars[/b][/u] [u]Lineup[/u] Iginla-Sakic-Gaborik Smyth-Horcoff-Stastny Sedin-Sedin-Hemsky Gagne...
With the exception of Scott Gordon becoming the new head coach, Isles news has been pretty dry lately. However there has been one issue that has been on my mind lately, and that is the yet to be announced destination of 2008 first round draft pick Josh Bailey. Word going around is that Bailey was asked by the Isles to move to Long Island. I haven't seen this published ...
[i]With his latest Sundin blog, TSN's Darren Dreger cites the Isles as a dark horse. Has Garth stared too hard at Brett Farve from across the street? How does this follow the plan? Well, it doesn't. [/i] A quick word on the latest rumor du jour, before I head out for some R&R upstate. Dreger on TSN: "[i]One thing is certain, Sundin won't be pushed. His future...
This is the second part of my TOP10 draft picks chart, if you missed the first part, you can find it here: [url]http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=50777&post_id=6017[/url] [b]5th - 2001, 7th round (227th overall), Colorado Avalanche - M. Svatos[/b] It took some time before Svatos could be promoted from AHL Hershey Bears to Denver, but his first full season w...
I began thinking of this topic after seeing a topic on a hockey forum the other day. In the past few seasons the hockey world has seen the emergence of low level (self proclaimed A leagues). Many criticize theses leagues as nothing more than hyped up beer leagues, but in fact the level of play isn't that bad. Many players have college background, some of the top ACHA DI l...
stromie writes...

Random Sabres Thoughts......

Posted Sunday | Comments 2
Max Afinogenov is in the ultimate contract year. Not only is he in the last year of his contract, but he was shopped around in the offseason and is auditioning for all 30 other teams in the NHL either via trade during the season, jockeying for line placement on the Sabres or for his free agent contract following the season. Right now, it looks like we are going to go be ge...
By Wednesday, October 8th, at 3pm Eastern the Stars must have their roster down from their current total of 28 to the 23 man maximum. Here is the current 28 man roster Forwards Sean Avery Krys Barch Fabian Brunnstrom Chris Conner BJ Crombeen Loui Eriksson Jere Lehtinen Joel Lundqvist Mike Modano Brenden Morrow James Neal Steve Ott Toby Petersen Konstantin...
sirensong writes...

Winds of change.

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Naslund-NYR Morrison-Ana Linden-Retierd Krajicek-Tam Pettinger-Mtb Cowan-Peoria Ritchie-out Izzy-Ott Shannon-Ott Weaver-out Miller-out Demitra Bernier O'Brien Johnson Wellwood Hordichuk 11 player's from last year's roster either playing elsewhere or out of the league. 6 players added from either trades or free agency, and a handful of youngsters e...
So far I have touched on the defense (I think we are good), goaltending (bold prediction...I think we are great) and now comes the offense. I have saved the most difficult for last. Let me say up front that offensively I think we are going to have problems. I am not blaming all this on Radulov's journey back to play for the Russian mafia but we will miss his 26 goals fo...
Yes, this team is for real. It is only two games, but look at what they've done. An emotional 6-0 win (that one was for you Luc Bourdon) and then a 5-4 OT victory in hostile territory tonight. Northwest Division rival Calgary was the victim both times. And I know how people say the preseason doesn't matter, but it's no fluke that the Canucks had one of the best r...
predjoe writes...

Gutsy...Arnott Update

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]Arnott Update: [/b]The Predators are reporting that Jason Arnott has fractured one of the fingers on his right hand. He is expected to miss at least the next three games. Preds did not release which finger it was...odd...does it matter? Not good news for the Preds but it could have been worse. Let's hope that the timeline of three games is true. [b]With a sol...
It is entertaining listening to fans as the hockey season starts out. The fans are screaming for Kipper before tonight's game. Before we all jump over, let’s remember that a team loses together and a team wins together. Now thinking statistically, it's only three games, people, get a grip. Secondly, even if we were in trouble, it is not all Kipper's fault. Last time...
predjoe writes...

Seeing Stars Tonight...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Preds (2-1) ride a modest two game win streak into Dallas (0-1-1) to face a hungry Stars team. Sound familar? Sound like an opening line to the blog about the game at Chicago on Monday? The only difference is that Dallas has already had their home opener...but this team is no less hungry. With an OT loss to open the season at home and then a road loss in Nashville ...
airtsabes writes...

Does it matter who scores?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I did a little breakdown of the Sabres lineup from last year to see how we did when our big guns score. Last year we had 5 players that broke the 20 goal mark. Vanek-36, Roy-32, Pominville-27, Kotalik-23, and Hecht-22. I figured it by percentage of points secured in games that were scored in. 1. Roy - 25 games 19-4-2 80% 2. Kotalik - 20 games 14-5-1 ...
First off, I would like to mention the tragic death of Avangard Omsk forward and New York Rangers prospect Alexei Cherepanov. His premature death is devastating to his friends, family and the hockey community. It is a shame that someone with so much potential was not able to fulfill it. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Cherepanov family on the loss of the boy who was,...
Sven_119H writes...

Home Sweet Home

Posted Saturday | Comments 1
[b]Montreal. Friday, October 17, 2008[/b]. The Juniors returned home from a 5 game road trip on Friday night to host the Huskies from Rouyn-Noranda. Montreal, weary from their recent stretch of 3 games in 3 nights(Oct. 10-12), were in desperate need of a goal as the Juniors had not scored since the 13th minute of their 3rd period of their 4-1 win over Halifax, a total of 1...
FLAMESTR writes...

WHY DO I BLOG

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Genius is over rated just ask us idiots, Hey geniuses thbbbbbbbbbbbbbtttttttttttttttt I have often wondered why I blog, it is not like anyone reads my blogs. Yet I seem to get very upset when no one reads them. My wife asks me why do I blog what is in it for me? I seem to love the sport, I am so feeling in adequate mostly because I pretty much suck at writing heck I...
airtsabes writes...

Sabres week 4 report:

Posted Monday | Comments 0
8-3-3 19pts H(4-2-1) A(4-1-2) Week 4 started great and then got ugly. 1-1-1 with Miller starting all 3. He started the week with shutout and it all went downhill from there. Our guys decided to revert to their lazy defensive play of last year and it cost them. One can say that Lalime should have started one of the back to back games but I do not think it would hav...
Just a few thoughts about tonight's game ... Stars in LA ... tied 2-2 after 2. The three remaining Stars that hoisted the Cup in 1999 have made an impact in the game tonight. Like a replay of 10 years past! Most importantly, Jere Lehtinen is back and looks pretty good. He scored the first goal of the game in his first game of the season. Zubov is also looking good in ...
predram writes...

Sharks vs. Preds - Fight review

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Monday night's game was anything but pretty for the Preds. The inconsistent scoring is starting to hurt this team. One game you get 6 goals, the next you get none, then you get 3 and the next you get 1 (no particular order but games vs CGY, VAN, ANA and SJ). To make matters worse, Captain Jason Arnott left the game after colliding with Sharks forward Joe Pavelski and eve...
walrus writes...

The Burke Effect

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
As I have heard and observed Burke over the past few years it's clear that he is going to make a few changes with the roster and the admin at MLSE, I hope the Silver Fox and Joe are allowed to stay on as an Executive Commitee of Consultants but I think this guy will waste no time to gut this team and put his stamp on it. The fact the Leafs have a lot of mediocre Russia...
And, oh yeah, who predicted that? Mind checking my Oct. 2008 archives for my NHL season predictions? Because if I recall, I was nearly crucified by the Hockeybuzz community for my "outlandish" remark that the Canucks would win the Northwest Division. Granted, I know there's a lot of puck to be played, but take a look at those standings, and see if I had any brain ...
Sven_119H writes...

Huskies Top Juniors in OT

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Rouyn-Noranda Bests Montreal in Overtime 4-3 Montreal. Saturday, November 30, 2008. The Montreal Juniors were visitors to the Huskies in Rouyn-Noranda on Saturday night for the second of back to back road games this weekend. Montreal, who trail Rouyn-Noranda for first place in the Telus Western Division, gave the home team all they could handle and more but came up sh...
obe24 writes...

Avs' Wild Victory

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Last night's game was as thoroughly entertaining as last Friday's game in Phoenix was boring. It's amazing that two games three days apart can be so completely opposite in every way - style of play, effort, scoring, atmosphere. There were plenty of mistakes made by both teams, to be sure, but it was fun to watch. The Avs actually played hard and forechecked from the b...
bongo_guy writes...

Sakic Out...Options?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b] The Colorado Avalanche suffered a big loss today, announcing that our heart and soul, our captain, Joe Sakic, will be on the shelf for AT LEAST 6 weeks with a herniated disk in his back. Ouch. Alright, so let the rumors begin. With Joe out, the Avs have to shake things up...but how do they go about this? One option is to stick with the current team and promote f...
frankster writes...

Stars slide by Avalanche

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
As the circus get's ready to complete it's first week in Big D, the Stars were able to mix in a hockey game between Avery circus . Marty Turco posted the win stopping 27 shots; outdueling Peter Budaj. Not missed in all the saves was Marek Svatos he was all over the ice creating plenty of scoring chances. Scoring with 55 seconds left on a sweet pass from Paul Stastny to tie...
It's tough to say what the price of moving up in a draft like this one would be. Moving even a few spots in the top ten could be quite expensive. Garth Snow was demanding the Leafs pick along with two additional 2nd round picks(we ended up giving him a 2nd and 3rd) in last year's draft to move up two spots. This was the price in a draft not as strong as this one. With ...
I'm going to try to make this quick since I really should be studying for an exam. Last night was god awful for the Preds. The team had no life on the ice and seemed drained from the previous night. The powerplay was dismal, esp. in the 3rd period. Yes they scored a PP goal...on a 5 on 3. Game was bad, Canucks were better. OK. Great. Now on to the hits. The Daviso...
WOW! Finally something to cheer about and even put to paper ... or web page, as it is! The Dallas Stars shut down and defeated the mighty - and much hated - Detroit Red Wings! If nothing else comes of this season, we can celebrate this night as our (mini) Stanley Cup victory! Clearly, the Stars have had very little to be happy about so far this season. That goes for...
From the very earliest evolutions of the game of hockey to the Sheffield forge where Lord Stanley's cup was crafted and the Regent Street silversmiths where the British Governor General of Canada Lord Walter Stanley bought the now sacred trophy, the United Kingdom has had a profound and often unrecognized influence on the early eras of the sport, the NHL and the Ontario Ho...
Newman writes...

Christmas Wishes...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Was that a smile from Darryl Sutter? It might have been as his son, Brett Sutter, scored his first NHL goal in his first NHL game to tie the Flames with the Ducks 14 seconds after the Quackers took their first lead. Sutter, after shockingly being called up from the minors just days before Christmas, made an impact that few thought possible as he was flying all night and...
walrus writes...

Leaf Trade Talk

Posted Friday | Comments 0
With the Trading Deadline around the corner I think the following trades would be great for both teams. Tlusty, Andropov for Jordan Stall and 2nd round draft pick. (Both Tlusty and Andropov are very affordable) Tlusty played with Malikin in Russia and both enjoyed great success. Pittsburgh needs a little shake up with a glut of Centremen and Jordan rotting in th...
BuffMAN74 writes...

Darcy DO IT, Just Do it.

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]What do we all think about these Sabres?[/b] The game as a general manager is complicated for sure. We can all bag on Darcy all we want, but hopefully we can be entertained by the next couple of months. We have a situation though, and hopefully it can be resolved by March 4th. Max and Kotalik both need to be gone. We have to get something in...
nephew23 writes...

Stars at the Break

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Dallas Stars are headed to the All-Star break after a solid 2 periods against the Florida Panthers. They finished the first half on a rare Florida road trip - Monday in Tampa Bay and tonight in Sunrise. The Stars had been stringing some wins and points together, but they blew a 2-1 lead late in the 3rd to the Bolts, and lost 4-2. Then tonight they skated out to play...
I think now is a good time to address the young defensive players for the Islanders and how they seem to be doing. There are several of young, developing forwards, but really only two main defense-man that stand out with the near future, and a third that may end up as a contributor later in his career: Chris Campoli, Bruno Gervais, and Jack Hillen. [b]Chris Campoli[/b] ...
Sorry for the delay to anyone who was holding their breath in anticipation of the next division analysis, because I'm sure there were plenty of you. I continue my team by team analysis by focussing my attention on the North East division. Once viewed as the most dangerous in the conference, and perhaps league, it has provided two of the worst teams, to date, league wid...
The National Hockey League (NHL) is the largest-scale professional ice hockey league in the world. Its ability to attract the most talented players from around the world has enabled it to grow from a small, six team, regional league in the 1950s to the thirty franchise NHL of present day. Notwithstanding the League’s concerted effort at continued growth and expansion, ...
I wish I could tell you what a real fan is and what it means to be a fan to your team. I mean, I know what it is like to pull for a team or root for them. But as a fan, you certainly have the right to boo a team. But how far are you aloud to go? I mean, I have seriously heard people insult the player’s intelligence and his upbringing. I am just as bad as the others. I am...
I think I have finally reached my breaking point... It's time for people to be held accountable and there is plenty of blame to go around... I think [b]Lindy Ruff[/b] is a good coach, but clearly after the last two years, he isn't getting the message through. You could argue that the talent isn't there, but these players don't even seem to care that they are losing....
Bruno Gervais has always been one of the players on the Isles roster that has given his free time to charity and/or social events while also being very vocal and outgoing with the fans. However, after not scoring a goal in 100+ games and at times looking out of position and frustrated on the ice, Gervais was becoming a question mark for the Isles future on the blue line. ...
Strung0ut writes...

Living in Nova Scotia

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
For anyone who cares. I'm and huge Montreal fan and I live out on the far eastern side of Canada. For some history look up Nova Scotia Voyageurs or Halifax Citadels. That is all besides the point as now all we have is a QMJHL team, the Mooseheads (Did not do too well this year). So I bought center ice so I can watch all the Habs games (In English) . This would be a...
Amoroq writes...

No Ground Beef Allowed

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Welcome to the No Ground Beef allowed Blog, I believe it is self explainitory.... Ok, most of you know that I am not a part of tank nation even though I know finishing as low in the standings gives the team a better chance at finding the next one. I just can't hope for a loss, can't do it, tried it, got sick to my stomach, end of story. However that being said, ...
NJromano writes...

Romano's NJ update

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Romano's 2:00 Update Happy Easter everybody, plenty of hockey to talk about and I am going to start with our under the radar Trenton Devils.. ECHL- The Devils beat the Jackals last night 6-5.Right now the team has 6 point per game players, and 4 players with over a point per game. Now that's what I call balanced scoring. The most noticeable players so far have been T...
First off, I would like to thank the New York Islanders for running the NYI Blog Box for a second straight year and allowing me to be a part of it this season. Over the course of the year I have met a lot of great people that helped me get adjusted to something that was very new to me while never making me feel like that "new guy." Despite the season being a long, hard sea...
For the overwhelming majority of the season the Islanders played their back-up and third string goaltenders, Joey MacDonald and Yann Danis. DP's injury forced him to pretty much sit out the entire season allowing these two net-minders to have a quality chance at proving themselves at the NHL level. But which one will be back next year to serve the role that was initially i...
walrus writes...

2010 Leafs

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Leafs are in a rare situation in the NHL as most of the teams are going to loose money the Leafs are going to continue making money so if I were the Manager I would make the following moves that frankly I think Burke will. First the UFAs that he will go after are the following: H. Sedin, D. Sedin because Burke has a history and they are solid top 6 forward ...
Jim Balsillie is at it again as he tries once again to bring the NHL to southern Ontario. You have to give him marks for determination, once again making an offer to buy the Phoenix Coyotes. This being the third attempt to buy a team to bring them to Hamilton. I really have nothing against Jim; heck, I do not even know him. Obviously he is a huge hockey fan. He is a ver...
After the never ending articles and blogs about what the Rangers need to do with free agents and player moves, there's one thing that needs to be considered, how bad were the rangers? If you believe that they were just awful then yes, let's overhaul everything and toss Drury and Gomez and leave just the youngsters and pray that players we bring up from Hartford are good e...
creins writes...

LEAFS...What to do???

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
First of all this is my very first blog so I apologize ahead of time for boring you. I'm gonna state my views on what the Leafs should do with their current roster only. Jason Blake-trade if you can otherwise keep him. I bet he reaches closer to 40 goals next year. Devereaux-displayed himself well when the games didn't count. I don't think he'll be back but he's a good ...
First off, I want to explain that I am aware that it has been almost two weeks since I wrote my last blog. Being that we are in the month of May, although that means fans are in store for intense games of hockey during the NHL playoffs, it also means final research papers and exams are due, and I simply did not have the time to write about my beloved Islanders. But now...
Ron Guillet writes...

Colton Orr: Yes Orr No?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
(I apologize for the title, I like the lame ones, what can I say?) July 1st and onward should be marked with an abundance of quality signings, but I'm hoping the Toronto Maple Leafs invest in a minor signing that could pay major dividends. Colton Orr is the perfect enforcer for the Leafs, let's bring him to Toronto, Brian Burke! While Andre Deveaux has proved to be a...
Rewind a year to Ottawa, when interim GM Cliff Fletcher was preparing to make his last great splash. Trading up to secure hard hitting blueliner Luke Schenn, a player unto which the Leafs hoped to bank their revival, set in motion a summer of upheaval paving the way for Brian Burke to step in mid-season. For many the draft of 2008 marked an era of realization, that change ...
Whether it be Pierre's and Milbury's red ties in game 5 and Milbury's red tie tonight. Or Pierre's and Olczyk's MULTIPLE assessments on the NUMEROUS times the Penguins should have been called for interference, or that the Red Wings should not have been called. Or them belaboring Malkin's cross check on Filppula when, a millisecond before, Kronwall planted [Fedotenko?]'s ...
As the New York Islanders embark on a tough decision with the first pick in the draft, John Tavares will likely be heading to Long Island. The pressure on Garth Snow, the Islanders GM, will be great. With Snow being questioned about his qualifications to be a GM plus having control of a franchise whose future in Nassau County is up in the air. So the question is....do you ...
[img]http://assets.nydailynews.com/img/2009/06/27/alg_tavares-cap.jpg[/img]A collective sigh, or booming scream from the 10,000 plus Coliseum crowd, was let out all at once when Garth Snow stood up at the podium to announce that the Islanders have selected John Tavares as the number one pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. From all the years the Islanders have walked up t...
I remember when only the best of the best could control potential movement. I remember when GMs would fight hard against the agent for a no trade clause and I remember when the media would yell and scream at the GM on behalf of the fans for not caving on the no trade clause. Fast forward and just about every contract of significant value comes complete with a NO MOVE...
I remember when only the best of the best could control potential movement. I remember when GMs would fight hard against the agent for a no trade clause and I remember when the media would yell and scream at the GM on behalf of the fans for not caving on the no trade clause. Fast forward and just about every contract of significant value comes complete with a NO MOVEMEN...
I just want to start by saying that some of you sabre fans should really be ashamed of yourself. People are being very critical of the Sabres Brain trust which is very understandable, but you really look at everything that has Transpired since the Lockout, the Sabres have had a plan. they established a team out of the lockout that was structured for the new NHL and play...
Hockey is a business, you hear it all the time and it is true at least at the professional level. As team President, John McDonough is directly responsible to Rocky Wirtz. He oversees the administrative side of the Hawks. Wirtz is the Chairman of the Board, the man with the money as it were. Wirtz delegates the responsibility of running the organization to McD and becau...
The summer started off with the possibility of the Islanders not selecting John Tavares first overall and taking either Victor Hedman or Matt Duchene. But they did what was right and took the kid who has been watched and predicted for the past four years to go at the top with their first choice. Since then the Isles have been rumored to be in on the Sedin twins, Mike Komis...
HabAve37 writes...

A Sense of Optimism...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
So maybe the Montreal Canadiens will not win the Stanley Cup this year, and maybe not for a while, but it certainly has been an interesting off-season. The more I look at this new, revamped roster, the more I try to forget the anger I felt for Bob on June 30, when I found out that he had mortgaged our future to acquire an overpaid, small centerman to replace the beloved Sa...
On paper, Stefanovich looks to have all the tools that teams look for: a blend of scoring ability and size. Stefanovich’s sharpshooting abilities and offensive instincts are top notch, but his effort is inconsistent at best. Though he is willing to drive to the net, Stefanovich is a player who mainly fights through contact but doesn’t initiate physical play. His skatin...
Looking at the rankings for this coming season, I'm surprised at how lowly ranked the Sabres are by the people who are doing it. I, by no means, believe that the Sabres are a Stanley Cup contender, but I do see a playoff team in the current roster. This team has the potential to finish anywhere as high as the 6th seed and is 100% capable of winning a playoff round. By t...
My boss has been uploading pictures all through the summer of the renovations being done at Matthew's Arena, the oldest standing Hockey Rink in the US. Here is a link to pics and videos... PLEASE COMMENT! http://matthewnareski.shutterfly.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rGgpzFxhyc http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xrbipbu7OCg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=...
Here we go folks, hope you enjoy the blog! Let's see how the Markov-less Habs will fair. Roman Hamrlik returns to the line-up tonight. Dags sits, Stewart is in. 1st Period: 19:29 - Gomez with a chance, Miller stands tall! 18:45 - Offside Montreal 17:25 - Montreal Penalty - Metropolit - Hooking 17:20 - Buffalo Goal - Tim Connoly - Rivet & Roy 14:55 - Both sid...
Pat Quinn was fined today for his comments after last night's Flames-Oilers game. Quinn called Jarome Iginla's trip on Sheldon Souray a "dirty play." Having watched the video on NHL.com and read the words myself, I can't say I blame the NHL for the decision to fine Quinn for his comments, but I also can't say that what Quinn said was wrong. Players today are taking more...
At last folks ... the home opener! How appropriate that we play Colorado with all the recent talk about reserrecting the Nordiques!! For the opening they had all the Habs say "Je Suis" followed by their name. Was nice to hear ... here we go! 1st Period: 20:00 - Start of Period 19:21 - Avs with a chance, Habs with some great defensive work 19:10 - Habs with a chance...
bizan writes...

Canadian Franchises in Danger

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Here's a new look: Canadian franchises are in danger, not because they aren't drawing enough crowds or making enough money. No, Canadian franchises are in danger because the game as a whole is struggling. When 80% of the league is based in either a non-hockey market (boy have we heard that phrase a lot this summer) or in a struggling economy (sorry neighbors to the s...
Newman writes...

Overtime Heroes!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Two nights, two cities, two goaltenders, two overtime wins. For the second straight night the Flames managed to win an overtime game on the road, due in part to the goaltending they received on both occasions. Miikka Kiprusoff, who had been battling the flu for the past while, came into the net tonight and shut the door on the St. Louis Blues. Stopping 30 of all 31 shot...
pj50 writes...

Oilers lose another one.

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Well folks what can we say about this last loss to the Thrashers. Yeah there we some bright spots, Penner got his 12th, the goaltending is still okay to good. But for some reason this team just doesn't seem to be able to put together a complete game. Skate miles and miles and pass lots with no results most of the time. This is truly a one line team when it comes to scorin...
The Islanders gave away a win last night that they should have easily held on to. The Wild were playing with a depleted roster that is trying to perform under a new system, much like the Islanders of last year. Despite gaining a 2-1 lead after being down a goal in the first period, the Isles failed to hold on in the final minute as Owen Nolan buried the puck passed Biron. ...
It's a thought that most hockey fans ponder from time to time. What would you do if you owned and operated your own franchise? What if you could buy your favorite team and do things your way? What would you do differently? Being a hockey fan myself, I too have pondered such a question. And here are a few things that I came up with, in that magical fairytale world wher...
Newman writes...

Feeling the Blues

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Calgary Flames are officially in a slump. They are not playing desperate hockey and are not playing well. After a nice three day break where they could take some time to work out some of the kinks that have been bothering them over this stretch, it seemed as if this would be a perfect game to bounce back in. The Blues, after coming off of big wins in both Edmonton and ...
Buffalo (25-11-4) at Montreal (21-19-3) The Canadiens hosted the Sabres for the fourth matchup between the teams this season. Entering the game, Buffalo led the series with a 2-0-1 advantage, outscoring Montreal 11-7. The Sabres were coming off of back-to-back games in which they have overcome three goal deficits. They came in on a three game winning streak as they h...
Buffalo (28-11-4) vs. Colorado (24-15-6) The Sabres enter the night with a perfect 7-0 record against the Western Conference. Buffalo is looking to extend their current win streak of six games while Tim Connolly hopes to extend his eight game point streak. Patrick Lalime starts between the pipes for Buffalo, allowing Ryan Miller to rest after making 48 saves last nig...
Buffalo (29-11-5) at Islanders (20-19-8) With a 7-1-2 record, the Sabres headed onto Long Island looking to win their second of seventh game on the road trip. The Islanders came in having won their last two, including a convincing 6-0 win over Detroit. Rick DiPietro started in net for the first time in over a year at Nassau Coliseum. There no surprise seeing Ryan Mil...
KevinJames writes...

Sabres Crush Coyotes

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Sabres Take First Place In Eastern Conference Buffalo (29-11-6) at Phoenix (28-16-5) With the New Jersey Devils loss, Buffalo had a chance to take over first place in the Eastern Conference. Phoenix and Buffalo met once earlier this season back in the beginning of the season, with the Sabres winning 2-1. The Sabres come in with 7-0-1 record against the Western Confe...
Buffalo (30-11-6) at Anaheim (22-20-7) Buffalo comes close after trailing by four, but cannot complete comeback Buffalo had the opportunity to regain 1st place in the Eastern Conference. Washington won their game earlier against Detroit. They were down 2-1 in the third but rallied to win. The Sabres needed two points to jump back into first place. Patrick Lalime rec...
Buffalo (30-12-7) at San Jose (34-10-8) The last time these two teams met was on February 13th, when flight 3407 crashed near Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Even though the NHL offered to postpone the game, the Sabres chose to play. Buffalo went out to a four goal lead, only to see San Jose come back and score five goals. Jason Pominville tied the game up wit...
Buffalo (30-13-7) at Vancouver (31-18-2) The seven game road trip came to an end tonight for Buffalo. Buffalo needed to defeat Vancouver in order to win the trip. This was the only meeting between these two teams this year. Buffalo won the only meeting last year by a score of 5-2. The Sabres had to face another Olympic goaltender in Roberto Luongo on Monday night. ...
All I hear in Buffalo is, "Why do the Sabres keep losing?" The answer, folks, is not because of poor play. Sure, coming home after the team's lengthiest road trip of the season every fan, including myself, would like to have come out with more than 6 of a possible 14 points, but when you look hard at the trip, specifically the tail end, it's really not as bad as the record...
Buffalo hosted the Bruins looking for its second win in a row. Boston will have Marc Savard back in the lineup, which is a big relief for the Bruins. Without Savard, the team went 1-6-1 and only scored 13 goals. Boston has won the first two meetings between these teams, but trail Buffalo by 15 points. Despite being 11th in the conference, Boston can jump all the way up ...
Every Islander fan has seen that Garth Snow is capable of making a shake-up when the time is right. Last year he moved from the bottom of the first round all the way up to the 12th overall pick to select defenseman, Calvin de Haan. The year before that he moved down from the 5th overall pick to the 9th to take Josh Bailey. And in his first year as General Manager, Garth Sn...
The Olympics may have officially begun competition on Saturday, but it's today that for most of Canada the games really start. HOCKEY!!!!!!!! What more could you ask for than to see the best players in the world compete. I know some people that have actually said "I don't see the difference between this and the World Championship, it happens every year". To those peo...
Newman writes...

Iginla Starts Canada's Engine

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Canadian fans everywhere rejoiced tonight as Jarome Iginla led Team Canada past Team Norway in the opener of 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic games. Iginla, who officially scored 2 goals (most thought he tipped in another), found his way to the top line with Sidney Crosby and Rick Nash after starting the game on the third line with Morrow and Toews. Not that Morrow and Toews ...
Just like the title says. Another game coming on Friday against another team.
Brisco writes...

The Dust Settles

Posted Friday | Comments 0
So here we are, two days after the glitz, glamour and ru-ha-ha of the always exciting NHL trade deadline. The dust has settled and traded players are dawning new colors and settling into new digs. Ryan Jones debuted against the Blackhawks Wednesday night, Ryan Whitney and Aaron Jones will wear their new numbers, 6 and 2 respectively, in their debuts tonight against Minne...
landsharkhockey writes...

Fantasy Feed - 3/25

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Here's your Fantasy Hockey Feed for today… 4 Stars #1 - Marian Gaborik (F - NYR) - Gaborik came up huge with 2 goals and an assist, leading the Rangers to a much needed 5-0 victory over the Islanders. #2 - Valtteri Filppula (F - DET) - The Redwings are fighting for the final spot out West, and Filppula's performance last night granted the team 2 more points in th...
Welcome to week 24 of the Fantasy Planner, getting you ready for next week's fantasy hockey action. (3/29 through 4/4). Only 2 weeks left to go in the regular season, so not much time for those final roster tweaks. [u]Week 24 Matchups[/u] [b]Teams with 4 games[/b]: Anaheim, Atlanta, Boston, Buffalo, Carolina, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Florida, LA, Minnesota, Nashvill...
The 'we'll be better next year' mantra has already started on Long Island. The season has 8 games remaining on 2009-2010, and the Islanders have almost solidified themselves with either a top-3 or top-5 pick in this year's upcoming draft. Throw in to the mix that Rick DiPietro has yet to play another game, allowing many to assume that his come back year may be shut down pr...
Many of you probably looked at the headline and said, "Uh, who?" But many Islander fans know plenty about Michael Haley and are very excited to see him dress in an Islanders uniform for the first time when they face-off against the New Jersey Devils tonight at the Prudential Center. Haley is a pugilist at 5'11 and 198 pounds that loves to drop the gloves, sticks up for...
Fingers were crossed and prayers to the hockey Gods were made, but it all came down to the luck of the draw - something the Islanders did not have land in their favor. The draft lottery was conducted last night and the Isles went in with the 5th worst record in the NHL. That gave them an 8.1% chance of moving up to grab the first overall pick. Instead, they ended up standi...
Check out my seasonal review for the New York Islanders at The Hockey Writers! http://thehockeywriters.com/2010-islanders-seasonal-review/ -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
schaef617 writes...

2010 NHL Award Picks

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Here are my picks for some of the major awards from the 2009-10 NHL season. Each of the awards has three finalists selected by the NHL. The actual winners will be announced over the summer in Las Vegas. Norris Trophy- Top Defenseman Duncan Keith (Chicago Blackhawks)- Keith edges out other finalists Drew Doughty (LAK), and Mike Green (WAS) because of his strong defen...
There’s always next year. The infamous phrase heard around Buffalo has been said again this year after the Sabres were knocked out in the first round to end the season. Fans in Buffalo were disappointed again after what looked like a promising season. The Sabres made the playoffs for the first time since winning the President’s Trophy in 2007, but were then bounced ...
The Calgary Flames have, for better or worse, decided to stay the ship. And staying the ship means keeping Daryl Sutter. They have decided that radical changes are not needed. In their infinite wisdom, they are not going to trade any of the top players or prospects to get a number one pick. Unless, of course, Mr. Sutter can hypnotize one of the general managers into tak...
canuckspeculator writes...

2010 DRAFT INTODUCTION

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
INTRODUCTION 2010 NHL ENTRY DRAFT The 2010 NHL Draft is turning out to be a fascinating one. Unlike recent draft years, this group of players lacks the ultra high end depth we’ve come to expect. The 2010 draft has two great offensive players, and three premium defensemen in the top five, but after that group there are questions, questions, and more questions. H...
Ok Taylor Vs Tyler, Tambs Vs Pete. Well here we are It's Wed and well the draft is not here yet hurry up! now that that's outta the way it looks to me Edmonton Won't be trading the #1 pick unless there's a HUGE offer I know I Just Pointed out the obvious but lets have a look of whats gone on in the last 2 weeks. Edm & Bos are both saying we would be happy with either ...
Only a few hours remain until draft and I am having difficulty containing my excitement. I didn't sleep much last night but that isn't much of a big deal. I was reading some of the blogs on here, and Eklund who is the one who updates regularly on rumors regarding FA's, UFA's, and possible trades said in his post late last night to keep a VERY close eye on garth snow and th...
Check out my post at The Hockey Writers talking about the newest addition to the New York Islanders, 2010 5th overall pick, Nino Niederreiter! http://thehockeywriters.com/el-nino-storms-into-long-island/ -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Folks, The Habs Brass has impressed me yet again! Montreal GM Pierre Gauthier saw an opportunity to move up in the draft and jumped on it! The Habs traded 1st(27) and 2nd rounds picks to Phoenix for 1st(22) and 4th round picks, all 2010. According to various sources, the player Vancouver was waiting for was in fact, Jarred Tinordi. I can only assume that Gauthier c...
Undrafted D Brandon Aquino set to ink 3 year entry level contract with the Buds after a stellar season with BK Farjestad in Sweden last season. He will be playing in their AHL affiliate Marlies next season and will hopefully to come up into the Leafs line up late in the regular season.
There were 4 players that most fans felt the Islanders would end up with at the 2010 draft with the 5th overall pick. Every mock draft had the Isles taking one of either Gormley, Gundbranson, Connolly or Fowler. when Garth Snow walked up to the podium at the Staples Center on Friday night, he proved that every mock draft, every fan, (including me) and every pundit was dead...
With not a single pick in the top 60, expectations could not have been that high for the Flames at this year’s entry draft. The rumour mill buzzed with far-fetched rumours about players like Jordan Staal, Jason Spezza and even Ilya Kovalchuk that some desperate Flames fans (including myself) ate up. But all the Flames came away with after two days in Los Angeles was a po...
Well first off i woke today and read that : Patrick O'Sullivan, Ethan Moreau & Robert Nillson were all placed on waivers today and Mr.Lebrun from ESPN just confirmed they have been bought out.Now I don't have exact numbers but Patty was a Cap hit of $2.95Mil and Moreau & Bobby were both $2Mil so thats about $7 mil of dead wood gone don't get me wrong they're all better hoc...
A little over a month ago, I wrote a column detailing what the Sabres’ plans for this offseason should be (see: Sabres’ Potential Blueprint, May 13th, 2010.) Some of my suggestions are still viable, others not (ex: Jason Arnott being dealt to New Jersey, Nathan Horton to Boston.) After writing the previous article, I had a chance to review the 2009-10 season for the...
Breathe in...breathe out.... I have been on several Islander message boards and blogs—and there are some pretty irate, zany, wacky and down-right pissed Islander fans throughout Long Island. Trouble is—I can't quite understand why. Okay–I know today was July 1, and I know everybody figured the Isles would do something to address the holes in the line-up, but ...
No sports athlete is really "worth" most of the salaries they are being paid. On that front, we can agree. Not Jeter. Not Tiger. Not A-Rod. No one. That includes Kovalchuk. But I think that you are purchasing a lot more then a single player for the on-ice product for $100 million—that is if indeed, the Islanders should win the Kovalchuk sweeps. ON THE ICE Perhaps a ...
Check out my article at The Hockey Writers with quotes from the future stars of Long Island including Nino Niederreiter, Travis Hamonic, Brock Nelson and Kirill Kabanov! Here's the link: http://thehockeywriters.com/isles-prospects-shine-in-summer-scrimmage/ -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Necharsian writes...

Possible Souray Trade

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I believe the best oppurtunity for the Oilers to trade the disgruntled Sheldon Souray is to the Buffalo Sabres for Tim Connolly. That would be the core of the trade. The Sabres have over $8million in cap space, so taking Souray's $5.4million would not be disastrous. Souray also gives Buffalo something they desperately need; a top 4 defender, who can play significant pow...
I believe that Afinogenov would be a great pick up on free agency for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Give him a chance to bring in a veteran presence for the young top 6 forwards, since he is now in his Early 30s. He may have had a great season last year, but that could've been a fluke if you look at his stats the previous two seasons, where he didn't even mass a total combin...
Long story short, nothing. And everything. Nothing because there is not a single chance in the world that the Sabres would do something as ridiculous as sign Kovalchuk. The Sabres already have 2 contracts like that: Thomas Vanek and Jason Pominville. On a quick aside, I would be very inclined to say that dumping either of those at the right price would be a very intell...
Check out my new post at The Hockey Writers discussing the teams' contract issues as many of the players on the current roster will be looking for long-term contracts after next season! http://thehockeywriters.com/garth-snows-toughest-job-lies-ahead/ Please feel free to leave comments! -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Sure the majority of Leafs fans saw the value of a trade Tomas Kaberle, and dreamed of a top line starring countless players from around the league paired with Kessel and Bozak/Versteeg (depending on said players position), but alas, it wasn't to be, and Kaberle remains a Leaf for another year. Now, the question to be asked, where to the Leafs stand. In my eyes, the Lea...
thesportsbuff writes...

Reason for Optimism

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Now that the anger and confusion surrounding the latest Tim Kennedy arbitration fiasco has begun to subside, I think it’s time for the team and city to move on and forget about the whole ordeal. It stings to see a young, home grown player with such a feisty game be thrown to the curb, especially in the midst of an uneventful off-season that saw no major changes to a team...
Check out my recent post at The Hockey Writers, taking a look at Rob Hisey and his value to the New York Islanders line-up! Leave comments! http://thehockeywriters.com/rob-hisey-potential-goal-scorer-finds-way-to-isles/ Also check out islanders.nhl.com to see featured articles from the Blog Box that were recently written by Dee Karl, Ken Dick and myself! -Rob McGo...
KevinJames writes...

Northeast Division Preview

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Northeast Division is expected to be close once again this season, but the Sabres won’t have an easy time repeating as division champs again. The Northeast saw many changes and will be as competitive as ever as Toronto is attempting to return back to the playoffs. The Northeast is considered one of the toughest in the NHL and this year should prove that statement...
Check out my post at The Checking Line discussing the possibility of Nino Niederreiter making the Islanders roster out of training camp! Register and leave comments to talk about whether or not you think he should make the team! http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-el-nino-rain-down-long-island-year -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter!...
When the second round of the 2010 draft was coming to a close, I kept hearing the talking heads all comment on how Krill Kabanov, a world class talent had slipped so far out of round one, and now what appeared to be round 2. At that moment, I began thinking, here is a player who is destined to be an Islander. My take on Krill v2.0 and the "incident" http://hockeyinde...
Micheal Aldred writes...

Preview: Buffalo Sabres

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
[b]Primary Staff:[/b] Darcy Regier (GM) Lindy Ruff (Head Coach) [b]2009-10 Stats:[/b] 82GP 45W 27L 10OTL 100PTS [b]Place:[/b] 1st Northeast, 3rd East, 11th NHL [b]Top Scorer:[/b] Derek Roy – 80GP 26G 43A 69P [b]Captains:[/b] Craig Rivet (C) [b]OFF-SEASON MOVES OUT:[/b] Henrik Tallinder (Signed with New Jersey) Toni Lydman (Signed with Anaheim) Tim Kennedy ...
El Nino to Long Island A summer mini camp, a rookie training camp and two all-rookie games into his Islander career, Nino Neiderreiter has been signed to an entry level contract by the New York Islanders brass. Upon learning the news this afternoon, it did make sense to me for this signing to occur. And whats with Charles Wang? Charles Wang used today’s presser to ...
This is why you sign three number two centermen! In case two get injured you line up doesn't really change!! I am fearful of one thing though and that is Conroy on the top line, it happens every year and it hasn't worked in several so I'm hoping against hope that Conroy stays in the bottom six where he does his best work. With Stajan's Injury and Langkow dealing with a slo...
There's a new post up at the new and improved "The Checking Line" web-site! If you haven't already, you need to register and get involved on the forums and comment on the blogs of this site as it continues to head in a great direction! Here's the link to my most recent post: http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/sending-message-kabanov Leave ...
Check out my recent post at The Checking Line, reporting the latest news on Kyle Okposo and the recent addition of Mike Mottau to the Islanders defense! http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/misery-loves-company-okposo-out-indefinitely Also, check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers that covers injuries, training camp, and the upcoming p...
[b] Primary Staff:[/b] Ken Holland (GM), Mike Babcock (Head Coach) [b]2009-10 Stats:[/b] 82GP 44W 24L 14OTL 102PTS [b]Place:[/b] 2nd Central, 5th West, 7th NHL [b]Top Scorer:[/b] Pavel Datsyuk – 80GP 27G 43A 70P [b]Captains:[/b] Niklas Lidstrom (C), Pavel Datsyuk (A), Henrik Zetterberg (A) [b]OFF-SEASON MOVES[/b] [b]OUT:[/b] Brett Lebda (Signed with Toronto)...
Yesterday morning Garth Snow made another one of his low risk high reward acquisitions by claiming Michael Grabner from the Florida Panthers. This is a move that helps bring some skill to the Islanders opening day lineup with the recent injuries to Kyle Okposo, Rob Schremph and Mark Streit. Mr.Snow has made some good pickups recently by basically signing other teams tras...
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers that takes a look at how Trevor Gillies and Zenon Konopka are doing what they do best and helping the Islanders win hockey games...leave comments under the blog in the comments section! http://bit.ly/aAa4lF -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Friday proved to be just another frustrating night for the Buffalo Sabres and its fans. Ottawa defeated the Sabres 4-2 in front of the HSBC Arena crowd. Daniel Alfredsson continued his tear against the Buffalo Sabres, scoring three times and earning his 1,000 career point. Alfredsson came into the game with just one goal and four assists on the season, but had a hat ...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing Parenteau's latest hot streak as he leads the Islanders in points! http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/pa-parenteau-finds-success-isles-uniform Register and leave comments! -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
saneopinion writes...

Don't hate the player...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
In what was a pretty interesting game with huge leads and come backs, fights from guys who don't normally fight and teams trying to score on them selves one debatable point has been over looked. Taylor Hall was hip checked cleanly by Marc Giordano, this prompted Colin Fraser to speed over and take on Giordano. The thinking that Hall has to be protected and if you check him...
Hey guys .. for those of you Hab fans who want to see some of Jarred Tinordi: Ottawa 67's -vs- London Knights Tonight: 7:30pm Rogers Channel 22 (Ottawa) Online: http://livestream.ontariohockeyleague.com/ I'll be live blogging the game. You can view the blog at: http://ottawa67shub.com/category/ottawa-67s/ Cheers, Anthony
Hello folks! I had an absolute blast at the game today! The crowd was very loud and fun was had by all! To read about the action please visit my LIVE game blog here: http://ottawa67shub.com/2010/11/05/ottawa-67%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%93-vs-%E2%80%93-london-knights-%E2%80%93-nov-5th-2010-%E2%80%93-let-the-battle-begin/ Enjoy your reading! Anthony Brown
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers analyzing the Islanders recent seven game losing streak as fingers are starting to point at who is to blame and what should be done: http://bit.ly/aizxI5 Leave comments! -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Head over to The Hockey Writers to read my latest post discussing whether or not it is time for Garth Snow to shake things up as the Islanders losing streak has now hit eight games. http://bit.ly/aEMWIj Leave comments! -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers discussing Jack Capuano's recent promotion as head coach of the New York Islanders! http://bit.ly/bZPZNH Leave comments! -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The leadership quality of Devil's captain Jamie Langenbrunner has been questioned since last year's mid-season slide, a trend that's worsened as it crossed into this year's campaign. At this point in the season, Langenbrunner's been as ineffective as most of the players on this team have been with only three goals and eleven points in eighteen games, going a minus ten. As ...
nfph writes...

What would ya say...ya do here?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 6611
[img]http://www.thehdcrowd.com/screenshots/office_space_25.png[/img] With the anticipated passing of the scepter, er sword, whatever, from TommyG to Terry Pegula, Sabres fans are licking their chops at the prospect of ditching our itinerant king for one that will give a flying you know what about the affairs of state at the foot of Washington Street. Thanks for the save...
Newman writes...

Flames Thoughts

Posted Thursday | Comments 7
41 games down, 41 games to go – and they are going to be long 41 games at that. Sitting 14th in the Western Conference, six points back of 8th place, hopes for a miracle run are fading in a hurry. It doesn’t help the situation when a majority of teams ahead of the Flames have played fewer games than them, making it doubly hard to gain any sort of ground. Did I...
Tim Connolly was born on May 7th, 1981 just outside of Syracuse in Baldwinsville, New York. He was selected 5th overall by the New York Islanders in the 1999 Entry Draft. Connolly had played two years for the Erie Otters of the OHL, where he produced at well over a point-per-game pace before being drafted. After two mediocre (but not terrible for a rookie, by any means)...
The NHL All-Star game happening this weekend in Raleigh, and during the broadcast of the All-Star draft, TSN mentioned that the salary cap numbers for both of All-Star rosters where over $100 million! This got me thinking about what type of All-Star team could I put together using the NHL Salary Cap floor of $43.4 million. This team will be made up of 12 Forwards, 6 D...
Concerning NHL year-end awards, deciding who is the most deserving candidate to take home (x) awards, is always a fickle question. Take the James Norris, for example. Some people would argue that unless a younger player was unquestionably the most dominant patroller of the back end, the trophy should otherwise be awarded to a previous winner. In other words, in tight races...
KevinJames writes...

Pegula's Impact

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Ding Dong, the witch is dead! The Sabres have been sold and all will be right with the world! This is the current sentiment in the Sabres fan base. Change is coming, this is undeniably true. But when, who and how much has yet to be determined. Many believe new owner Terry Pegula to be a mythical owner from heaven sent to overspend and create a new Stanley Cup dynasty ...
Well, Terry Pegula did it. The Buffalo Sabres newest owner acquired the team from Tom Golisano and will take over on February 22nd, less than one week away from the NHL trade deadline. This should be an interesting situation. Pegula may try to make a splash and please the fan base. He may be content to play Darcy-puck and sit still at the deadline. Only time will tell...
Rob McGowan writes...

Lemieux Laces Into Isles

Posted Monday | Comments 3
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing Mario Lemieux's stance on Friday night's game between the Pens and Isles, including Zenon Konopka's reaction http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/lemieux-laces-isles -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Yesterday afternoons game between the flyers and kings was a well played game and wound up being a 1-0 defeat for the Flyers. I am not concerned with the outcome of the game but a particular call within the game. Entering the last 7 minutes of the game Pronger was hit into the boards from behind questionably. Pronger was square to the boards and hit hard from behind sendin...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line covering what did and did not happen for the Islanders before today's trade deadline http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/quiet-day-garth-snows-office -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
andydrmm writes...

Quiet Long Enough

Posted Monday | Comments 0
As new ownership presented itself in Buffalo, I like all Buffalo fans, sat in anticipation as to what was to come on February 28, 2011. However, I was extremely disappointed, and now it's time for me to say what no one else is... Buffalo is currently smack in the middle of the playoff race, a place that not many expected them to be in, including myself. Buffalo had nume...
The Sabres acquired for Blues forward Brad Boyes late Sunday evening for a 2nd round pick in next year's draft. The move has garnered quite a bit of attention in both markets involved. It's obvious the Sabres were in need of a top 6 forward who can score, skate hard, and check harder. Boyes can backcheck and forecheck with the best of them. He skates with intensity that I ...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the possibilities on whether or not Jack Capuano will return as head coach for the New York Islanders next season http://bit.ly/eo6AN9 Also keep a look out at The Checking Line (www.thecheckingline.com) for a contest that will be starting tomorrow if you follow our twitter and facebook pages! Prizes will be re...
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post discussing Zenon Konopka's impact on this team and why he should be resigned for next season http://bit.ly/fF1hJl -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
NYI247 writes...

The Konopka files......

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Check out my blog http://nyi247.blogspot.com/ Follow me on Twitter @nyi247 I have been discussing Zenon Konopka's role on the Islanders for a pretty long time now and as the season wraps up there are more and more people discussing his future on Long Island. There is no denying what he has brought to this team over the past season and how big of an impact he has h...
Does Tim Connolly deserve a contract extension? I am pretty sure that there are few Sabres fans that believe Timmy is worth the $4,500,000 we are paying him for his 36 pts this season. So if he is not worth that much money how much is he worth? Using player stats collected before last nights games I compared other centers in the league that have within 7pts(20%) of Connoll...
Head over to The Checking Line for my latest post that takes a look at prospect Matt Donovan and his first professional contract wit the Islanders http://bit.ly/fW9rhd Don't forget to check back tonight at TCL for Daniel Friedman's post-game blog of the Isles Devils game and definitely stop back tomorrow night for a LIVE BLOG for the Islanders/Rangers game, coming to...
xpdonahue writes...

A Weekend to Forget

Posted Monday | Comments 0
This weekend I cant count how many fictional articles I wrote in my head. How the ducks and kings would clinch playoff spots for the first time in history. how the stars where the only team in the pacific to not make the playoffs. while all this still may happen.. we are going to have to wait. Saturday saw the Kings face the Stars while the Ducks were in San Jose, I al...
Head over to The Checking Line (and register and leave comments for your thoughts on the matter) for my take on whether or not Micheal Haley will have Zenon Konopka's job next season. http://bit.ly/huL2qg -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
killTHEnight writes...

That Awkward Moment When:

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
A first place team plays worse hockey than their minor league affiliate (who've won 28 out of 75 games thus far.) If I'm Peter Laviolette, Leights starts the next two games. As I said in my last post, having him on the big-boy roster, if nothing else, will show Bouchrovsky that: --they are in fact, expendable.. --that there is a reason why an undrafted rookie an...
Check out my interview with top Islanders prospect, Nino Niederreiter at The Checking Line! http://bit.ly/gT1Uun -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Check out my interview with top Islanders prospect, Nino Niederreiter at The Checking Line! http://bit.ly/gT1Uun -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
KevinJames writes...

Flashback: 3/25/2009

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
This was a game in which most people thought was the turning point for the Buffalo Sabres in the 2008-2009 season. With just a handful of games remaining and the Sabres sitting six points out of a playoff spot, it was do or die against the Florida Panthers. The Sabres were originally thought to have solidified the 6th spot in the East until goaltender Ryan Miller went d...
Well, it was inevitable. Any legit Sabres fan knew our biggest flaws running into these playoffs. Sure, we didn't have our "#1" center in Derek Roy, we had an injured Tim Connolly, Brad Boyes; who shouldn't ever play center, Robbie Neidermeyer, and Paul Gaustad up the middle. Compare that to Mike Richards, Jeff Carter, Danny Briere, and Blaire Betts (a less talented Goose)...
I didn't spend yesterday night watching my team get swept. I've said this continuously since the Bruins scored their 5th goal. That Flyers team was not my team. My team played the Chicago Blackhawks in the Finals last year; My team was tearing into the the entire league in January; and then they stopped playing. Just fell off the face of the earth. Frankly, I've been l...
Read my latest post at The Checking Line discussing the busy week that just passed for the New York Islanders and what might be the next move made by Isles GM Garth Snow http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/islanders-are-making-noise-early-off-season -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
ErikC writes...

The Curious Case of Brian Burke

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
8 days remain to the start of the 2011 NHL entry draft and 2 weeks remain to the the opening of the NHL free agency period. Burke has defined the number one off-season priority as being a true no. 1 centre to play with Kessel. Ideally, come July 1st Brad Richards would don the blue and white and for years to come would be the set-up man to help Kessel reach his goal-scorin...
With more than 10 million in cap space will the Leafs do a mega offer to Stamkos in excess of 10 million? Burke did say he has no problem with term if the player is young. So look for 10 years at 10 million per year something TBay has no hope to match. They were paying 6 million for Giguere alone now he's gone and the Leafs desperately need a prolific goal scorer and...
I guess it's too expensive to make the changes in these crappy economic times!
I guess it's too expensive to make the changes in these crappy economic times!
Before I start, I don't claim to be an expert. I have my own opinions, and don't claim to know everything about hockey. If you find any inaccuracies or have any comments, please respectably leave them below or in my Inbox. Since I last saw my Flyers in May, a lot have transactions obviously have occurred. I was pissed off at the end of the season, and called it the ...
With the handcuffs off Darcy Regier is proving to be resourceful and more aggressive than myself and most Sabres fans have ever given him credit for. Signing Ehrhoff was a great move to add a durable blueline presence who can command the Sabres PP until Myers or Gragnani is ready and chip in 30-35 assists for the next decade. People are complaining about the term of the ...
Most have lauded the Sabres organization over the past few days for recognizing they weren't going to land Brad Richards and immediately snatching the next best playmaker on the open market in Ville Leino. In terms of ability the Sabres are upgrading their forward corps by adding a solid two way player with soft hands, great vision, and proven playoff performance. Howeve...
Now that the initial free agent frenzy is over, I'd like to review some contracts that have been handed out in order to assess the value of 3.5 to 4.5 million dollars on the open market. Or more importantly, to see how NHL franchises value that dollar range differently. Below are a list of forwards who have signed AFTER July 1st 2011 to contracts that will have an annual...
Check out what's new at The Checking Line to read about the Islanders prospect scrimmage which included Kirill Kabanov, Nino Niederreiter and Ryan Strome's highlight reel breakaway goal http://thecheckingline.com/node/4353 -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Now that the initial adrenaline rush of free agency is behind us we can gain perspective on the off-season thus far. Now of course every signing and trade comes with a measure of risk, but these are the 5 that i have identified to be the riskiest. Without further ado: [b]Buffalo Sabres sign Ville Leino for 6yrs/27$mil (4.5mil annual cap hit)[/b] If you read my Vill...
Random Notes for all the junior buffs out there... London traded up only to pass on Mikhail Grigorenko and instead pick up Finnish defender Olli Maatta 1st overall. Hey, if the Knights are doing it – it must be right. Grigorenko drafted 2nd overall to the Quebec Remparts. This is a great primer for the young Russian leading into his draft year. CAN’T WAIT to ...
As we start to ramp up for another action packed NHL season we also start to see/hear the many couch experts (myself included) start offering their opinions and projections for the race to April and what it will bring. Who’s going to jump out early.. who’s going to suffer the xmas slump.. Who has all the pieces to go all the way? It is worth noting that it is always su...
SabreHess writes...

Are We Spending Money Wisely?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Read any hockey articles on the internet from markets outside Buffalo and you'll notice a common trend. Yes the rest of the league has taken notice that Buffalo is improved from last year, but they also are quick to point out the folly of the Sabres new-found spending prowess. I'd like to debunk that myth right here and now. Let's get the 800lb gorrilla in the room o...
Hello all. My name is Aarif Deen. I am currently a Junior studying at University of Michigan. My major is Broadcast Journalism and I'm minoring in Print Journalism. My main focus is hockey. My life long dream is to stand in front of a camera and talk hockey for living. Analyzing the great sport we all grew to love. My first step in reaching the dream is to get my nam...
Over the Next 30 days I will be Previewing each of the National Hockey League Clubs heading into the 2011-12 season starting from the Anaheim Ducks. Day 4 of the series belongs to the official AarifDeenReport Calgary Flames Preview. Please resort to myhockeybuzz page for previews of teams falling before this team. [b]Follow me on Twitter @AarifDeenReport please. [/...
It is always a sad in the world let alone Hockey when a young person dies, Rick Rypien clearly was a person who not only fought others but had a big battle in his own head somehow the NHL is failing these guys to find the help they need. It's no secret that tough guys are always put in the spotlight to fight but that pressure more than any other guy is proven to be the mos...
We all know that an earthquake in Virginia was felt throughout Long Island yesterday, but the question on most minds of Islanders fans is if Nino Niederreiter will be cracking the line-up this season. http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/will-el-nino-strike-island -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
This is the first blog I've ever written on the Calgary Flames, so please excuse any factual errors and if my grammar ain't so good. After five consecutive years of spring hockey in Calgary, the last two seasons have ended prematurely. Many pundits and so-called experts are predicting the same disappointment for the Flames this coming season. However, those of us who wa...
djvoiz writes...

Situation in Quebec City

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It's been a while since I posted a blog here. In fact, I haven't posted anything in ages! I decided to write a bit about the situation that prevails here in Quebec City regarding the new arena and everything that revolves around it. First off, I think I speak for everyone here in Quebec when I say Congratulations to Winnipeg! It is so amazing that you got your team b...
Over the Next 30 days I will be Previewing each of the National Hockey League Clubs heading into the 2011-12 season starting from the Anaheim Ducks. Day 12 of the series belongs to the official AarifDeenReport Florida Panthers Preview. Please resort to myhockeybuzz page for previews of teams falling before this team. [b]Follow me on Twitter @AarifDeenReport please.[...
[img]http://www.cyberpresse.ca/images/bizphotos/435x290/200910/30/120459-maire-sortant-regis-labeaume-multiplie.jpg[/img] There has been alot of people complaining about the fact that Quebec City's new arena would be built using mainly public money. When we take a look at the situation it is easy to end up with this conclusion, but there is more to it than what it lo...
The New York Islanders have locked up number one center, John Tavares to a six-year contract extension that will keep him with the organization through the 2017-2018 season. Rob McGowan reports. Head over to The Checking Line to read more! http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/tavares-nets-six-year-contract-extension-isles -Rob McGowan ...
It's such a great day for everyone who dreams of the return of the Nordiques in Quebec, like myself. I have been dreaming about this for so long and now, its unreal to take a moment and realize that a new NHL-ready arena will be built and delivered during the 2015 summer. The "Assemblée nationale" voted for Bill 204 today, which means that it secures the deal betwee...
puck-off writes...

Leafs unveil third Jersey!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
A throw back to there 1960's Leaf jersey is going to be worn opening night! http://mapleleafs.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=589427 Check it out!
The Islanders have fallen to .500 after losing two straight in Florida. Is it time for head coach Jack Capuano to shuffle up the lines? Rob McGowan takes a look at the Islanders' play over the past six games. http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/are-isles-better-500 -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM Like us...
When I look at teams who have gone through the task of tearing it all down and going into the 3-5 year rebuilding program there should be noticeable strides by year 3 and 4. When teams go through the 3 year plan they usually have acquired numerous picks, prospects and other pieces along the way and are usually a top 5 pick or two from being ready to play into late april an...
Read my latest at The Checking Line to see the latest transactions made by the New York Islanders http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/nino-niederreiter-and-trevor-gillies-assigned-ahl -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM Be sure to "like" The Checking Line's official Islanders Facebook page to keep track all ...
Obviously fans and coaches alike appreciate grit and the willingness to go into the tough areas of the ice, but what seems to be equally valuable, even if it is at a sub-conscious level, is the ability to curl the upper lip and stare right through a player as though you’re going to rip his heart out. More than one NHLer has backed away from Kevin Bieksa after realizin...
I went into this weekend of Sabres hockey rather skeptical after the past few performances of the team. Despite only losing by one goal in a lot of their games, it was not a accurate depiction of the game as a whole. Buffalo was not playing good hockey, and there was no reason to think this weekend would be any different. However, 2 games and 4 points later, I was plea...
One thing has become dreadfully apparent with this Jet team. They have shown an unbelieveable lack of discipline. With 12 penalty kills against Buffalo, the Jets gave the Sabres a gift-wrapped win, especially when your PK is as poor as the Jets" is. They missed an opportunity during this road trip to post a winning record despite having many regulars out of the line up....
Rob McGowan writes...

Comeau Gonna Go?

Posted Saturday | Comments 300
Blake Comeau was the subject of several trade rumors for the Islanders this summer and has been struggling offensively this season. With certain prospects pushing for roster spots, will Blake Comeau make it to the end of the year as a New York Islander? Rob McGowan reports. http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/comeau-gonna-go Want a chance t...
Rob McGowan writes...

El Nino Is On The Way

Posted Monday | Comments 573
Rob McGowan reports the latest Isles news at The Checking Line as Nino Niederreiter has been recalled from his conditioning stint with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/el-nino-way Be sure to read Brian Bock's post-game report for last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks as well! http://thecheckinglin...
Rob McGowan takes a look at the current state of the New York Islanders as well as providing some suggestions as to what needs to be done for both the long and short term benefits of this hockey team. http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/where-have-isles-gone -Rob McGowan http://twitter.com/IslesRM http://twitter.com/TCLIsles www.faceboo...
Rob McGowan shares his latest on the current situation surrounding Nino Niederreiter and why he might not have been playing the past few games. http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/where-world-nino-niederreiter -Rob McGowan http://twitter.com/IslesRM http://twitter.com/TCLIsles
TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported that the Lightning may be interested in loaning Brett Connolly to Canada’s World Junior Championship squad this coming December. If you’re team Canada, why wouldn’t you want Connolly? He has all the intangibles necessary to be a great WJC player. For example, let’s take a look at some of the great WJC leaders for Canada in the past ...
FuzE_gus writes...

Where are the Habs' Bloggers?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Is it just me or does it appear the further the Habs sink the less commentary we get from the Habs Bloggers? They sucked the joint out in Anaheim last night and not a peep from any Canadiens writer. Eric, Kamal, Hindle...anyone? I think the Habs organisation is sucking the life out of everyone involved....players, fans, now writers. I may have my most productive winter ...
With the Lightning off for a couple of days, I have time to sit back and enjoy some other hockey games. That being said, there’s always chatter and things going on in the Lightning world so I do my best to keep my readers posted. Here are some news and notes on the Lightning to begin December. - Guy Boucher is really trying to push speed. An article posted today in...
Two goals, including the winner in overtime against the Carolina Hurricanes. Not bad for a former Buffalo Sabres outcast whom was subject to ridicule in his multiple seasons with their organization. Injuries, inconsistency, and turnovers were the reasons the Sabres opted to not resign him for this upcoming season. They say another man's garbage is another's treasure. This ...
Rob McGowan provides a quick look at how some of the Isles top prospects have been performing so far this season http://islanders.thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/isles-prospect-check-12192011 -Rob McGowan http://twitter.com/IslesRM http://twitter.com/TCLIsles www.facebook.com/TCLIsles
dude84 writes...

The Circle Of Life

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Jerome Iginla is on the verge of getting his 500th goal both in his career and as a flame but the team is out of the playoffs and have missed for the last two years. Iggy as he has come to be known by flames fans was drafted by the Dallas Stars 11th overall in 1995 but was quickly traded to Calgary after the draft for Joe Nieuwendyk the Stars won the cup with Nieuwendyk bu...
So the Jets finished the year on a positive note with a 3-2 win over the Leafs. A great win to say the least as the Jets are in the thick of the battle for a playoff spot in the very tight Eastern Conference. Yes the Jets are currently holding a playoff berth in their hands, but many have stated that this is due to the fact that they played a sickening amount of games ...
So the bench boss went on record with the media by saying that the performance of Eric Fehr has to be better. Noel pulled no punches in his interview and put his point across as a matter-of-factly as one possibly could. I suppose the ball is now in Fehr's court and many Jets fans are waiting to see what the big forward will do after being singled out in such a manner. ...
scottregnier writes...

Sign Em Up

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Doug Armstrong is going to be earning his paycheck the rest of this calendar year. Besides trying to figure out what to do about possibly picking up a player for the playoff push, he's going to have to figure out a lot of contract situations for next season. My gut tells me that he won't make any deals the rest of the way this year. Andy McDonald is coming back (hopeful...
icedog97 writes...

Turning the Tide?...and a Rant

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Three wins in a row...two in the Sunshine state where we've definitely taken our lumps over the years...and one against the Hurricanes - who also give us fits...has Penguin fans feeling a lot better than a week ago. Without exaggeration...we needed those wins badly. I wouldn't say all of the Penguins ills have been cured...but it is safe to say that they seem to be ...
After winning 5 games in a row, the Bolts have a lot of fans, including myself, wondering if there’s a chance of seeing post-season hockey in 2012. Not only was tonight’s win important, it was also a confidence booster. Often times, the first game back from the all-star break is pivotal for a team. Hopefully that’s the case for the 2011-12 version of these Tampa B...
[img]http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/dEhP1eNtUUhJ8RlJ.v25Ow--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusnhlexperts/GRABBBBBBs.jpg[/img] As you might know I decided to get twitter, and its proved to be lots of fun. Follow me @vowswithinhb [i]#Update: Well looks like Stempniak will be out for 6 week now, + Kolanos will wear #8 for the ...
scottregnier writes...

Get Stupid With It

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In my lifetime I've seen the St. Louis Blues play hundreds of games. I've seen them at the Checkerdome/Arena/Greatest Place Of All Time. I've seen them at the Kiel Center/Savvis Center/Scottrade Center. I saw them play last season in Buffalo at the HSBC Arena. Nothing compared to what I saw at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Predator fans are definitely one-of-a-k...
blarneylad writes...

First ballot HOF?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
After being picked 1st overall by the Nordi[i][/i]cks and then dominating the NHL for years, even Jagr was jealous in the 90s, Nolan has announced that he will retire. Nolan was surprised this season when he approached habs GM Gauthier with his intent to play for the habs, Gauthier said habs were getting big enough with Cole and didn't need a washed up ex-maple-laugh. ...
andydrmm writes...

Moving Forward

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Sabres put together a little hot streak after the All-Star break. However, the past 2 games, they have gone right back to where they were before. Can Buffalo make the playoffs? Yes. Is it a long shot? It doesn’t have to be, but the way Buffalo is playing, [b]yes[/b]. Which now begs the question, what should Buffalo do over the next two weeks with the trade de...
andydrmm writes...

Looking Up???

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I’ll be 100% honest here, I didn’t really have high hopes for the Sabres as they headed towards the West Coast. I didn’t really expect Buffalo to do too well, and kind of figured that the playoff hunt was going to get a lot more difficult come Monday. HOLY $^#$ AM I GLAD TO BE WRONG!!!! I mean, who honestly saw this coming? I wasn’t as shocked with the wins ...
I went with my fiancé last night to take in an Amerks game. Luckily, since the Sabres are now re-affiliated with the Amerks, I can talk her into going a lot more. Buffalo’s farm team is playing very well at the moment, and right now in the middle of a playoff race in the AHL, in case you're not following the Amerks closely. If the playoffs started today, the Amerks are ...
andydrmm writes...

Words Escape Me

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I just don’t get this. Words can’t explain what Buffalo has just done the past 2 games. Yes, I understand 3 points out of 4 the past 2 games. But blowing the game, in 3 seconds or less, in back to back games... [b]UN-@#%ING-ACCEPTABLE!!!!![/b] It’s great that Foligno is playing well. I’m glad for the kid. Stafford has also picked up his game lately. As for Ho...
How can we find excuses? How can the team, or anyone for that matter, find an excuse for continued losses, at this point in the season? You can’t. No one can. Tonight was another example of a game that Buffalo had to win, and should have won. What needs to happen for this team to move forward? Let’s be honest. This team can’t move forward. If I hear how great...
Wow, tonight was just what the doctor ordered. Buffalo controlled just about the entire game tonight against the Lightning. Everyone got involved tonight and several players joined in the scoring frenzy in Tampa. The Stafford, Ennis, and Foligno line... unbelievable. This team has been in need of some serious chemistry this year. This three seem to have found it. Right...
Wild weekend of hockey for me the past 2 days. I spent Friday night in Rochester with my family taking in the Amerks vs Binghamton game. Saturday, my fiance and I ventured off to Buffalo for the Sabres vs Wild game, as Buffalo makes a push for the playoffs. [b] Rochester Amerks [/b] The Amerks are still looking like a solid squad. They may not have won on Friday nig...
How many of you remember the Norris Trophy voting of 2008-09? I'm sure the people of Washington and Boston do. To refresh the rest of you, Zdeno Chara won a stunning upset over Mike Green in the Norris voting that year. In that season, Green had a higher plus minus, 23 more points (46% more), and 12 more goals (63% more) while playing in 12 less games. Will Erik Karlss...
I’m still sticking to the fact that Buffalo didn’t really want to make it this year. Look at the effort tonight, didn’t really strike you as a team that was playing desperate hockey, did it? I waited to write this until the end of the Capitals game. It’s done, it’s over. The playoff race goes to Florida and Washington. Buffalo can’t catch either team now. Th...
Is it just me or is this one of the worst years for biased play-by-play and colour commentary? I understand that each team has their own announcer, whether on TV or on radio, for local broadcasts. What I'm talking about is the people doing nationally televised games on CBC , NBC, etc. Should these games not be called evenly for the benefit of all fans and not just fans ...
With the off-season in full swing and not a lot going on prior to the draft and free agency, bloggers like me don’t have a lot to talk about. So, in an attempt to generate some interest I’ve reached out to my Twitter followers for blog suggestions. Today, courtesy of @AlexMacLean4 and @_ConnorAndrews – I’ll be taking a look at two topics of conversation. First u...
[img]http://dildeepsingh.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/backlund.jpg[/img] As it was just announced several minutes ago that Mikael Backlund has signed a 1 year 1-way contract with the Flames with a Cap hit of $725,000. This is even less then Roman Horak, T.J Brodie and Derek Smith will make this year. Backlund is nothing but upside at the age of 23, despite his injury...
Spectre writes...

Where do the fan favorites fit?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The sabres fanbase, myself included, has attachments to many players on thw current roster for reasons other than talent. Being from Angola, NY and going to the same high school as patrick kaleta, I obviously love seeing him on the squad. Nathan Gerbe is the personification of perseverance and is known for giving his all every night. But do they fit on the newly minted ros...
andydrmm writes...

Will New Players Help?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I’ve been thinking about this past season for the Sabres. Namely how and why things went wrong (if someone says injuries, I’m going to scream). I do really like the new players that Buffalo has brought in, and I’m anxious as to what will happen next. But my question is, will it matter? I like the additions so far, and I get the feeling that there’s more in the w...
There are plenty of topics regarding the Union Blue that I could pinpoint in my first piece for this site. That, in large part, is because the 2011-2012 season of Blue Jackets hockey was like that scene in [i]The Strangers[/i] where the record player begins to skip as Liv Tyler painstakingly searches her dark cabin for maniacs. The point being: there’s work here to be do...
msimoes writes...

Ville Leino breakout year?

Posted Monday | Comments 0
By the title I know most Sabres fans will think I'm crazy but let's look at Leino for a second. I'll admit when I heard that Buffalo had signed him I was excited and thinking he might do good in Buffalo, then I heard the price. A 6-year deal for $27,000,000 with 4.5M cap hit. That's the definition of overpaid, he had one good season putting up 19G 34A 54 PTS +14 but to me ...
Follow me on twitter @PHI_Flyers --------------------------------------------------- Okay so I have not blogged in a few days and I thought that it would be fun to blog today about something people could debate and argue for days. First I want to start with players under the age of 23. If you were the GM of the Flyers and could have ANY PLAYER UNDER 23 YEARS OLD, wit...
c_roy33 writes...

Mike Gillis' new team

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
This is my first blog so here goes nothin' [b][u]Mike Gillis' Plan[/u][/b] I just thought I would put this down on "paper" to see what the team would look like this year if Gillis had his way over the next few weeks so here goes: SEDIN/SEDIN/BURROWS BOOTH/KESLER/DOAN HIGGINS/ARNOTT/RAYMOND OR HANSEN LAPIERRE/BJUGSTAD/KASSIAN GARRISON/EDLER BIEKSA/HAMHUIS T...
I finally found out that the Sabres minipacks were going on sale right before my wedding. Just one more thing to stress about the week I lose my freedom (kidding!!!). Traditionally, My fiancé (soon to be wife) and I go in on a minipack with my parents. While we would like to get season tickets, it’s tough not living in Buffalo. However, we’re always watching the ga...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey. Hockey to me is pure. Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday. Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey. Hockey to me is pure. Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday. Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
To me, hockey is my escape. I am underemployed, I am struggling to put myself back through college, I have lost most of the luxuries I once enjoyed but I still had hockey. Hockey to me is pure. Imagine an office where 99% of the employees loved their jobs and gave it 100% everyday. Imagine making hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars doing the job that you...
Today I'm going to venture away from my usual niche of statistics and into the mysterious and compelling realm of prediction. That's right, my usual calculator gives way to a crystal ball, my mathematical approach gives way to voodoo. So I'll tell you what I see the standings being in the Northeast during the gap between regular season and playoff hockey. Let's start. 1...
After this weeks great negotiations between the NHL and NHLPA, I needed another hockey fix. My wife and I ventured up to Blue Cross Arena to watch the Amerks try to snap their 2 game losing streak against the winless Griffins of Grand Rapids. I was really glad that throughout the night, I saw the Amerk’s defense join the rush. There was great awareness to recognize w...
andydrmm writes...

Another Amerks Adventure

Posted Saturday | Comments 2
I took the day off to day because I had a doctor’s appointment this morning. Plus, I didn’t want to go back to work afterwards. My wife and I then began to develop a plan for the day. We knew that the day would end at the Amerks game as they took on the Hamilton Bulldogs. It was another big adventure in Rochester at Blue Cross Arena. The Amerks went on the power pl...
Willie Wilts writes...

QMJHL: Studs and Duds?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
With the NHL stuck in an owner’s lockout, hockey fans have had to direct their attention to other leagues in order to scratch the itch for competitive games. The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) has drawn a lot of the fan attention that the NHL would normally consume. Here are some of the studs and duds to watch for in the CHL’s eastern league, the QMJHL. Topping my lis...
Emotion is a huge part of the game of hockey, more so than any other sport. That is the aspect of the game that draws in the fans; the intensity, devotion, and sacrifice. The ups and downs, the ebbs and flows. The excitement and the despair. To an extent, the fans reflect the emotion of the game. We scream, yell, and shout. We sit on the edge of our seats, hoping and pr...
I'm by no means the first person to mention that the Flames would do well to offer sheet O'Reilly and give up their 1st and 3rd for him. This is not a unique idea and the good guys over at Flames Nation have already laid out why it is such a good idea here:[url]http://flamesnation.ca/2013/1/15/outside-the-box-sign-ryan-oreilly-to-an-offer-sheet[/url] Before I continue i...
Well this is more like it! A lot more of what I expected out of the Habs this year, building a lead through two periods and blowing it in the third. I know it’s a pessimistic point of view, but one thing I’ve learned from Les Habitants is to never count your chickens before they hatch. My one key to this game was to shutdown Tavares and Moulson, the only offensive punc...
slickshotsabre writes...

The Leino Question

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
What will happen to Ville Leino? well Regier needs to figure out what is going on with his 2011 off-season flop. Leino had a stellar career high 53 points with the flyers before he came to buffalo but can he repeat it? no i dont think so nor do most. last year he missed 11 games due to injury and played a mediocre season being demoted to the 3rd line. Ruff trie...
tomkob11 writes...

The Looming Deadline

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I realize this may sound a little bit like andydrmm's recent blog which I had not read until I wrote this: The Trade Deadline approaches! [img]http://www.nickmendola.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Darcy_Regier_325x183.jpg[/img] Let's look at this glass half full. The young kids, or "585 line", are tearing it up. Brian Flynn has 3 points in just 3 games! Foligno has f...
I'm starting to wonder... how good could this team be if they had a PP that could score goals? They've gone from a team that couldn't score a 5 on 5 goal to save their lives to a team that can't seem to find any way to score with an extra skater or even two extra skaters. They've now scored 4 or more goals in 4 of their last 8 games and scored a season high 5 last night ...
frigsy writes...

Oh no, not another power play!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I don't even know where to begin when it comes to the Sabre's power play this season, I mean as a Sabre's fan, I am no stranger to a poor and streaky power play, but what the hell is going on here? The Sabre's are dead last in the NHL converting just 13 of 108 opportunities, while also allowing a league leading 5 short handed goals. I could deal with a bad conversion ...
Follow me on twitter: @flamesfan1981 For the past two decades the Calgary Flames franchise has attempted to fill their to center positions with low cost or washed up bandaid solutions that simply weren't the answer. To put this into better perspective, the Flames top 2 scoring Centerman since the 1996 season have been Robert Reichel (354 points in 425 games) and Craig ...
HBDean writes...

NHL Year End Awards

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The following is simply a list of my picks for the various NHL awards, not predictions. Hart Memorial Trophy: Alex Ovechkin - Sid the Kid was hands down the MVP for the first 3/4 of the season, but after his injury, it turned into the Ovi Show. If Crosby had remained healthy he would most likely be handed this award, or if Sergei Bobrovsky's Blue Jackets had made the p...
This is the start of my off season assessment of the Buffalo Sabres players. I figured I would start with two on again, off again line mates in Tyler Ennis and Marcus Foligno. On paper, these are 2 completely different players. Ennis is 5’9”, 157 lbs while Foligno is 6’3” and 226 lbs. However, both of them can add a lot to the Sabres. Before I kick this off, I�...
Jayo1808 writes...

Oilers Playoffs aka: The Draft

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
So, Oilers blogger Richard Cloutier (@rdcloutier on twitter) wrote a blog today suggesting that MacT will be trying to trade up a couple spots so that he can pick Sasha Barkov. Considering the recent news that Valery Nichushkin has decided to come to North America, I can definately see the possibility of Barkov being available around the 4 or 5 spot. I wr...
Hey everybody! While watching the Halifax Mooseheads all season and especially during the memorial cup I couldn't help but notice how well MacKinnon and Drouin play together. They are ranked 2 and 3 on the NHL's central scouting report and after they leave Halifax, they will proberly never play together again. But while I was watching the memorial cup final on Sunday ...
[b]1. Colorado - Nathan Mackinnon[/b] A big showing in the memorial cup + the hiring of Patrick Roy makes Nathan Mackinnon too much to pass up. COL's prospect pool is stronger on D than up front and Mackinnon, Duchene, Landeskog are the avs answer to RNH Hall Eberle [b]2. Florida - Seth Jones[/b] Panthers go for BPA - Seth Jones and Gudbranson will be a ridiculo...
Ok so im sure this will change closer to the draft, but here is my mock draft from now! (please note by placing Bruins 29th and Hawks 30th doesnt mean i think Hawks win it, they have the better record hence worse pick) 1. [img]http://1.cdn.nhle.com/avalanche/images/logos/medium.png[/img] D Seth Jones 2. [img]http://1.cdn.nhle.com/panthers/images/logos/medium.png[/img] C ...
Yes as you can see its still June 20th... but close enough :lol: This is my 2nd last Mock draft, my last one will come the 29th or 30th... please refer to my last blog to see how many spots changed! (Link to June 14th mock: http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=14944&user_id=51280) [1][img]http://1.cdn.nhle.com/avalanche/images/logos/medium.png[/img] C Nate MacKi...
As we approach the start of free agency and the draft, a lot of people are up in the air as to what is going to happen with the Buffalo Sabres. Despite how some of my blogs come off, I’m a huge fan of the Sabres. I always have been, and I always will be. Regardless of what this team does, I’m still rooting for them. However, there has to be a certain disconnect wit...
FooterFan5211 writes...

In Joe We Trust!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Joe Sakic shocked the hockey world Wednesday by announcing that the team was leaning toward picking one of three forwards with the first pick instead of Seth Jones. Some find it puzzling that Sakic would announce something of this magnitude, and for those who have followed the Avs in the past this is completely against the behind closed doors attitude that we have come to...
TylerSterk writes...

Trades For Thought

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Just some late night trade possibilities. Canucks trade Roberto Luongo, Jannik Hansen, 1st round pick and 3rd round pick TO the Islanders for Nino Niederreiter, Josh Bailey, Rick Dipietro, 1st rounder and 2nd rounder. Maybe a deal that doesn't or cant take off but I could see it being a good deal? It would suck to see Hansen go but to bring back Niederreiter and Bailey wou...
There's nothing I enjoy more than the days leading up to the NHL Draft. Last year was the first time in the past 3 years I didn't write my mock draft, and it just didn't feel right. So this year, I'm back again to share my thoughts on how the 2013 NHL Draft might go. This is a strong year in my eyes, with 5 players who could dramatically change the fortunes of a few lucky ...
bradstar writes...

Lightning News & Notes

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Just gonna be a short blog for all who are wanting a update to what's happening in the lightning world. This past sunday the lightning walked away from the draft with 2 great prospects, they are Jonathan Drouin and Adam Erne. Drouin has a great shot at cracking the lightning lineup next fall. While Erne could be 2-4 years away from the big league. On Monday the lightning...
Now that the leafs have handed out the massive contract to Clarkson and resigned center Tyler Bozak the leafs roster looks to be pretty near set in stone. Barring any major trades or changes on the blue line, the leafs have yet again been led on the path of size and "truculence" (in the words of former gm Brian Burke) as opposed to speed and skill. As pointed out earli...
We're now only 39 days away from the start of the Buffalo Sabres season! Training camp is days away and the preseason begins in another 22 days. As I drove past the First Niagara Center on the I-190 yesterday, seeing the construction of the Harbor Center as well, I started to feel the anticipation of the season coming. I'm really eager to see how this young group o...
The Chicago Blackhawks host the Washington Capitals in the opening night of NHL action between two of the NHL's top franchises. Who will come out on top? Find out in the highlights of today's featured game of the National Hockey League on EA Sports NHL 14 - play-by-play calling by Eric Munter. [url]http://youtu.be/8HOY4pfwoJY[/url]
andydrmm writes...

Sabres Reality Check

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
By the time that I finish writing this blog, Buffalo will have lost their 5th game in a row. It is 4-1 Columbus at this time, 5 minutes into the 2nd period. Before reading this, I offer a disclaimer; [b]I am not going to sugar coat this.[/b] No matter how much I hate having to write this, I’m keeping this grounded in reality. I have heard a lot of dissent over...
[b]Tomas Hertl[/b] has been one of the most surprising stories in the young NHL season. In Tuesday's game against the New York Rangers, the 19-year old Hertl scored four goals. In five total games this year, Hertl has seven goals and an assist. He has scored more goals than the Buffalo Sabres have scored in six games combined. In Tuesday's game, Hertl scored a...
This morning, I went to get my medical treatment and got plugged in for my infusion. I had just written my morning blog, which I normally do during my treatment, and had started watching Netflix. Suddenly, my phone went off stating that the Buffalo Sabres were having a “major” news conference at 10:30 am. My mind of course starts racing as I hop on Twitter, which h...
andydrmm writes...

Sabres Playing With More Heart

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It seems like distant memory since the announcement came that Buffalo Sabres fans were done with Darcy Regier. I am still lobbying for November 13 to be a paid holiday across Western New York. Unfortunately, the scoreboard still says that the Sabres are losing games. I said this on my Twitter account earlier in the week. Every time Ted Nolan comes out and makes a state...
Over the last week the Ducks have made several changes to their roster (primarily because of injuries) and signed one of their young centers to a 3 year extension. The Ducks and center Nick Bonino have agreed on a 3 year contract extension worth $5.7 million for an annual cap hit of $1.9 million. This season, Bonino has appeared in every game for the Ducks and scored 7 ...
Always Mighty writes...

Wrapping up November

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Ducks finished the month of November with a 4-3 shootout loss to the San Jose Sharks, a game that they were outplayed for the 1st 40 minutes of the game but utilized a great 3rd period to get the extra point. Overall, the Ducks played 15 games in November and had a record of 8-4-3, good for 19 points. As I did with Otober, I'll go through the highs and lows of the prev...
andydrmm writes...

Sabres Continue to Struggle

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I know I’ve been quiet lately. I blame it on the holiday season being in the full effect. That and my job is a nightmare. The same can be said with the Buffalo Sabres to be completely honest. Despite the new leadership, the team continues to struggle. The Buffalo Sabres may be playing with a lot more heart now, but they still can’t manage to put the puck in the back ...
First and foremost, Happy Belated Holidays to everyone. I know it’s been quite awhile since I was on here. Due to my work situation, and the Holidays which proved more interesting than normal, caused my absence. However, that hasn’t kept me from staying on top of the Sabres, and watching what has appeared to be an improved team attitude. A lot has happened througho...
The Anaheim Ducks have signed forward Andrew Cogliano to a 4 year deal worth $12 million. This is a great deal for both sides, but in particular for the Ducks. If Cogliano had become a UFA this season, he would probably command upwards of $3.5-$4 million a year, instead of the average of $3 million that he has been signed. And the 4 years and $12 million is nice for Coglia...
[b]January 10[/b] I am going to start with something good tonight. First of all, I really enjoyed the Boston Bruins-Los Angeles Kings game. I always like it when those two teams get together. This game had a little bit of everything; two recent Stanley Cup Champions going head to head, hard hits, determined fore checking, pretty goals, some big saves at both ends...
Last night the Winnipeg Jets lost 6-3 at home to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Watching the game it was pretty clear that there is little to no direction as to where this team is or where it's going. They were getting beat in every aspect in the game, whether it be a 1 on1 battle on the wall or just a race to open space and was really difficult to watch. The Jets are know 10...
With the recent resignation of Pat LaFontaine being shrouded in almost total mystery with an over abundance of theories flying around the internet (mine is that he was merely a figurehead and when that reality hit, with the lack of power he had relative to the new GM, he decided being a rah-rah free agent recruiter wasn't the job for him), I thought the best way to leave t...
notalent writes...

Darcy was right!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]"[i]It may require some suffering."[/i][/b]--Darcy Regier, April 2013. Truer words were never spoken than those uttered by our defamed, former General Manager last spring. Still it was a bitter pill to swallow for the beleaguered fans in our crusty post-industrial city, especially coming from the captain of the ship who, while not exactly crashing the franchise into...
[i][b]The Elusive Finn[/b][/i] Building on the success of the [b]Where's Waldo[/b] franchise and catching on like wild fire across Sabres' Nation is the [b]Where's Leino[/b][b] Drinking Game[/b]. The elusive Finn has been rumored to have made appearances in various Arenas across the U.S and Canada and has accounted for a substantial Salary hit for the Sabres, but can...
On the eve of their biggest game of the season so far, the Ducks have announced that Cam Fowler, their best defenseman all season long, will be sidelined for the next 3 to 5 weeks with a sprained left MCL. Coming into this season it was unclear if Fowler would be able to take the next step and become a top pairing defenseman for the Ducks, and he has answered that with a r...
Most writers and pundits have already concluded that it's a given that Randy will not be coaching the Leafs next year. Some are wondering why he hasn't been fired yet. I don't get the passion about replacing Carlyle. This is a team that folded[b] 3 years in a row[/b] with the same core of players. Soon you're going to hear that Ron Wilson is conspiring with Randy to mak...
The Flames need _____ (fill in the blank). It is a pretty easy question, one most G.M.’s or Hockey Ops presidents are aware of the holes in their team. It could be argued Calgary needs a number 1 goalie however Ramo showed enough to get a shot next year likely. His .911 sv% was comparable to several goalies you would consider #1’s like Hiller and Quick. This was...
Brayton writes...

Who's up for buyout?

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The final four teams remain in the National Hockey League Playoffs with the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs coming to an end in early to mid June. On June 15th, or 48 hours after the Stanley Cup has been awarded, the NHL compliance buyout period begins. All 30 NHL teams will have until June 30th to use a compliance buyout on up to two players on its roster. These buyouts wil...
Been a while, been replying mostly to posts from our Kings beat blogger Jason Lewis...what a great job he has done having taken over for the at times overbearing yet passionate Matthew Barry. Thanks for all of your work this season! Some first period thoughts...lousy opening 20 for the Kings. Looking to finish the series on home ice in front of thousands of die hards I ...
JAKUB VRANA LW/RW (13th), VITEK VANECEK G (39th), NATHAN WALKER LW (89th), SHANE GERSICH C/LW (134th), STEVEN SPINNER RW (159th), KEVIN ELGESTAL RW (194th). No Defense in the draft, but I do know the organization has Defense as a priority. So I assume they will be very active in the Free Agency market come July 1st.
WhattheFUCK writes...

Sick of being a leafs fan

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Anyone else getting fucking sick of being a leafs fan??? Fuck. We are looking like a much worse team next year. Nonis must be praying every night for macdavid. Fucking stupid fat idiots.
This is the the way I see this ship veering. Perhaps with a few of my own thoughts and theories, however this is the path upon which I believe the Leafs are embarking. In an attempt to add addition draft picks or in order to move up further into the top 10, Toronto General Manager Dave Nonis was hard at work pumping the phone lines and attempting to deal off some of hi...
ZzHockey writes...

Avalanche not done

Posted Monday | Comments 0
With a little over 10 million left for the Avalanche cap space, Colorado continues to sign players even as they wait to sign pending contracts with Ryan O'Reilly, Tyson Barrie, Stefan Elliott, Joey Hishon and a few others. Today Colorado announced they have signed 27 year old Defensemen Maxim Noreau to a 2 year 1-way contract at $1.25 million - $625k per season. No...
This is a precursor blog and will include my team I have assembled in the last 4 years. I will break down some of the rules each roster allows and will give you a deeper look into how in depth these leagues can get at a certain level. First off, I will start at the roster and cap management. On the Major roster you are allowed 25 players that can accumulate points (head...
Buffalo-Sabres writes...

Beautiful Disaster?

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Beautiful Disaster?: The Sabres re-organization plan Its been five games into the Sabres 2014-2015 campaign and Sabres fans and people around the league are talking. Many people are saying "I told you so". Others are surprised at how similar the Sabres resemble last years historically bad squad. For me this begs the question, is Tim Murray is in control of this rebui...
In evaluating a long term plan for a team it is essential, and fairly obvious, to determine your core and players that make sense to build around. For the Calgary Flames and their plans to re-build, it seems fairly obvious they are planning on being in a playoff spot within three seasons after this one. Contract expiry is the biggest clue with only 7 players signed through...
[b]FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind [/b] The Avalanche lost 5-2 to the Canucks on Tuesday after scoring the first two goals of the game. They came out with an early jump and got on the board quick. John Mitchell received a nice pass from Alex Tanguay and lasered one past Ryan Miller for the goal just over a minute into the contest. It was his se...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] When the Colorado Avalanche signed Jarome Iginla to a three-year contract this summer, they were looking for a player to replace Paul Stastny’s production offensively. Statstny had just signed in St. Louis while Iginla was coming off yet another 30-goal season with the Boston Bruins. Iginla was always J...
Another regular season, another Kings team, simply sliding their way through yet another 82 game schedule, hoping for the best and hoping for a chance to play further into spring. I have seen enough of this group to draw the conclusion that they are constant underachievers in the regular season, but perhaps not overachievers when it comes to the second season of the NH...
What has happened to the Colorado Avalanche in this 2014-15 season? You cannot say that the Avalanche have had it easy by any means, considering both the NHL has studied up on the team since their explosion last season that saw them #1 in the Central, #2 in the West and #3 in the entire NHL. A gutsy rookie that came into the league like he had something to prove, after ...
[b]Follow me on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] The game clock had 8:16 remaining on it when Paul Postma exited the penalty box. The Avs had just failed to score on its second consecutive power play opportunity and were down 3-1 with nothing going for them. Colorado scored two late third period goals after the failed power play attempts en route t...
What, on earth, do you do with this hockey club? I hear a lot of "no-donts" online about them. Let's face it, the last time they had success, that success' name was Chris Pronger, and his wife nagged him to Anaheim. Since then, they've been nothing but a train-stop in a dead city. I'm not going to give some pretentious thorough evaluation of the team. ...
Koz_86 writes...

End of McDays

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It's here. It's finally here. After many long, cold, and miserable painstaking years, the end of days is finally here for the Edmonton Oilers. The firing of Eakins serves as a long overdue acceptance that this "rebuild" has failed. It is time to...rebuild...again Rather than admit this fate was inevitable, the organization pressed on, trying to save our world one sma...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] You could sense a little uneasiness from Blackhawks fans before the puck dropped Tuesday night at the United Center. In fact, during the warm up one fan told me, “I hope they don’t fall behind early and play catch up hockey the rest of the way.” Unfortunately for him, that’s exactly what they did. An...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] For the first time in almost five years the Pepsi Center crowd was treated to a hat trick by a Colorado Avalanche player. Nathan MacKinnon, just 19 years, 174 days old, scored his first career three-goal game in the NHL to break out of a 14 game scoring drought. It was the youngest Avalanche hat trick in tea...
The Calgary Flames, clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2009 after beating the defending champions the LA Kings 3-1 last night. They clinched the playoff spot with one game to go in the season. For most of the final part of the season they battled with the Kings and the Winnipeg Jets for 3rd in the Pacific and the final wild card spot. This has been one of the...
NicholasFrost writes...

Dave's not here, Man

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Even the most reality-deprived hockey fans won't ever mistake Brendan Shanahan for Tommy Chong, but the Leafs have conveyed a similar message in the firing of Dave Nonis, Pete Horachek, and the entire coaching staff (aside from Steve Staios, who has been reassigned). Nonis should be judged entirely on his own merits, and there is much blood-letting and ...
Regular Season Only!!!! The Flames played well above what was expected of them this season. There are still people who can’t believe how the Flames made it to the playoffs. The Flames had a 44.43 SAT %(Corsi For %), shots on goal + shot attempts that missed the net + blocked shots, was 28th in the league and a 45.74 USAT %(Fenwick For %), shots on goal + shot attempts...
It is no secret that having an elite level defenseman has endless benefits. Modern day hockey involves a 5 player attack more than ever before. Having a smart, skilled player who can jump into the rush opens up a lot more options for the team. The position has evolved significantly, and offensive D-men are much more prevalent. However, in this article we will be focusi...
Trade: Pens get Bonino, a 2nd and Clendening Canucks get Sutter and a 3rd Wow, immediately looks like a great deal for the Pens. After checking out the salary implications here this trade makes some sense. Sutter was once a top pick (11th) whereas Bonino was a 6th rounder. Sutter just had his 2nd 20-goal season, has never even hit 20-assists or 40-points, and has more...
To see more like this go to my website [url]http://lazarbeams.com/?cat=2/[/url]! This is one of the first of many players I'll be recommending as potentially very good picks that will often be available in later rounds of fantasy hockey drafts this season. I usually play in leagues that count shots, hits, PIM, PPP and the usual G, A, sometimes +/- and blocks too. Here'...
One word to best describe the Calgary Flames 2014/15 season is miraculous. Having finished 27th the previous year and no significant roster changes besides for Johnny Gaudreau and Jonas Hiller, the Flames managed to secure a playoff berth with one game to spare. One of the main talking points of the season was the Flames inability to have the puck on their sticks more t...
The Flames were unlikely to repeat the previous season until the acquisitions of Michael Frolik and Dougie Hamilton. Hamilton was acquired during the NHL Entry Draft for a first round pick and a pair of seconds. Hamilton proceeded to sign a six-year, $34.5 million contract at an average annual value of $5.75 million. Frolik was a UFA which the Flames signed to a five-year,...
Matt Ross writes...

Modano-vation

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Growing up, I had a bunch of hockey VHS (and eventually DVDs) that I would watch before/after a game or in my free time in order to study in an attempt to try and emulate the players on the screen. I always drew a great amount of inspiration and motivation from those sessions of sitting in front of the TV. Fast forward a number of years to today and not much has change...
In the midst of seeing countless replays of the McDavid-Matthews connection against Team Russia yesterday, I came to the realization that there is something rather essential lacking in mainstream hockey coverage in this day and age.This missing ingredient is actual tactical analysis of how one team breaks down the other or stifles the opposition offence. At best we see a b...
After the Islanders 7-4 loss to Carolina, the Islanders needed a shakeup-well, maybe they needed a shakeup from November. Thomas Greiss who played every game since Halak has been placed in BPT on December 30, struggled versus Carolina. Nothing happened, as expected. The Isles moved on to play the Boston Bruins who they beat on December 20. Greiss got the nod again for NY ...
As we discuss trade deadline targets in Edmonton, for the first time in what seems like 500 years, lets take a look at the silky mullet himself, Jaromir Jagr. Now the only reason I bring the name up, is because this type of transaction has Chiarelli's name written all over it. Deja vu much? Remeber that Chia dealt for the Czech ageless wonder in 2013, while he was GM of th...
Happy Fourth of July everyone! As Canada’s neighbors from the south celebrate our independence over the next few days, plenty of the NHL’s elite are celebrating new contracts and new places that they will call home. In the last 24 hours alone, the Dallas Stars have signed Alexander Rudulox to a 5 year contract, Joe Thorton re-upped to the Sharks for one more year a...
Iban3z writes...

Flyers Rookie Camp Part II

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
As Flyers Prospect camp ended last week, we continue to look at the Flyers prospects in Part II of our series. First, Nolan Patrick took to the ice on Monday. Well, that’s not the exciting news. The real exciting news is that the Flyers signed him to his three-year entry-level deal. He’ll earn $925,000 per season, but his contract does have bonuses. Those bonuses w...
Nathan MacKinnon collected his fourth weekly NHL three-star honors this afternoon after posting six goals and two assists in four games for the Colorado Avalanche. MacKinnon’s eight points were one off of leader Alex Pietrangelo’s nine points. But as he’s been doing all season, MacKinnon has done a fantastic job collecting primary points. He scored six goals and adde...
The Hart Trophy has been a hot topic around the NHL for the better part of this entire season. It seems like there’s a new name added to the list of potential nominees each week. While reporters everywhere have dug into all the reasons why certain players should win, I’ve decided to look at the consistency of these players throughout the year in regards to offensive pr...
The first two games were a miniature version of what I expect from the season. Chicago dominated the Wings in the first period, Wings tied it, lose in overtime. Against St. Louis the guys were clicking better and won 7-3. Flashes of hope, talent on display, and moments you want to turn it off. For the guys I wanted to see, three have really been easy to watch. First, J...
This was a surprise, for sure. I like the kids we have, and like what’s coming down the pipe. Joe Veleno surprised me, and I was expecting him to be really good. In 4 games he had 7 goals and 1 assist. One goal was an empty net in game 3, but in the other three games he had 2 goals. Good grief that’s consistent. And, it’s impressive. This kid wants a job right now wi...
The Jets had to make many difficult decisions over the offseason. Ultimately, I feel Chevy did a great job allowing guy Meyers to walk for a massive overpayment, and Trouba brought a great return. Many were obsiously upset with how the Buff situation went down, and I was too. Hindsight being 20/20, it's far better that Buff waited out the Trouba deal, or the Jets would hav...
Changes are a brewing in Ohio's capitol. Here we are, beginning of March 2021, with the Columbus Blue Jackets in a losing predicament in the wild west Central Division. The Blue Jackets currently have a 0.457 winning percentage, with a 8-10-5 record thus far into the season. They are only better than the Detroit Red Wings in winning percentage, and are tied with Nashville ...
sdperry writes...

Playoff hockey starts now!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Teams are working towards the second half push. Those teams who have depended on stick checks and fancy moves will likely win a few, but will be disappointed with some hard losses. I hope to have some insight soon as to who will flourish and who will falter.
The Senators outworked the Toronto Maple Leafs last night. Bad turnovers and lackluster play allowed a determined Ottawa team to win. This type of play has become common as the Leafs have dropped 5 of their last 6. The 4 days off may give them some time to reflect but if each player doesn't stop with the soft play the Jets and Oilers will be atop the North in no time. L...
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