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bflodaj writes...

Blame Murray

Posted Saturday | Comments 5
For the last couple of months after the Thursday night brawl in Buffalo it has bothered me that Lindy Ruff has received criticism for his actions in that fabulous hockey game...Lindy sent out his fourth line to get revenge on what many believe to be a dirty play by Chris Neil, is it Lindy's fault that Brian Murray sent out the Spezza line who has no backbone???I believe th...
Ray Whitney said in an article in Raleigh's News and Observer Wednesday, "Same as Jimmy (Rutherford), I'd like to get something done and stay here, the sooner the better." That will be the first part of the off-season, resiging those key pieces. First to sign will be Whitney, the team's leading scorer with 83 points. It is absoluetley neccessary, considering that Rod Brin...
I have been a hockey fan for much of 35 years and being born into the hub of hockey I think I can tell you alot about it! What we have seen from the Boston Bruins is NOT hockey. I understand owning, operating and producing a successful hockey team can all be different things. Yes it is a business. As much as we do not want to admit it. The bottom line is most owners t...
This is one of my blogs from early on during the year (on a different site obviously) about my thoughts on Raycroft. It received some very harsh feedback from Leafs fans. Now that I look back on it, it's interesting to look back at a few of the points I made. Here it is: Yes I know it is early in the season, and I do know that players are still getting their legs behin...
MapleLover writes...

Who's Next?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 6
One of the more debated issues this summer for Maple Leaf fans will be - who's gonna back up Andrew Raycroft? Would the Leafs want a goaltender who would make a strong push for the starter job like say one Patrick Lalime or would they want someone who would still want the starting job but wouldn't make as strong a push but would still be there to mentor young Raycroft like...
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...
That's right... Lidstrom sucks defensively! If anyone else is currently watching the Flames-Wings game, you just saw Primeau skate around Lidstrom with ease to set up a highlight reel play, only to be stoned by Hasek... Now we all know that Lidstrom is one of, if not the best defenceman in the league, but the point of this is to point out that every defenceman ends up o...
By the power of Grayskull, a few points: 1) If last night was a game of Ice Hockey on the original Nintendo Entertainment System, Lindy must have gotten a hold of a Game Genie because Mair and Zubrus were able to hit like the big, fat players but also, somehow, had the agility and speed of the skinny guys that usually get run over. They were only credited with 8 hits i...
When the Ottawa Senators take the ice tonight, not only can they put their opponents up against the wall, but take once step closer to silencing the critics. It is well known how the media and fans (both loyal and of other teams) feel about the Senators, but this is the chance they’ve been waiting for since 2003. In 2003, the last time the Ottawa Senators made it to the ...
Focused Senators Will Not Be Rattled! In a series that has been all but dominated by the Ottawa Senators, it was the future Hall of Famer, Martin Brodeur that was trying to get into the heads of the Senators and attempt to throw them of their game. After letting in two weak goals himself, he tried to deflect any talk of weak play to his counterpart Ray Emery by saying, ...
jamvan writes...

Shaping Up For An Epic Battle

Posted Wednesday | Comments 11
Script writers and media people alike, couldn’t have wished for a better, more exciting match-up, that the one being brought by the Ottawa Senators and Buffalo Sabres. Not only is their an obvious dislike for one another, but the match-up will also boast two of the most potent offences in the N.H.L.. The two teams do not need any fuel to light their fires, both teams app...
Remember the 2007 trade deadline and how the Ottawa Senators were ballyhooed for failing to make any "big moves" at the deadline? "How could they miss out on Gary Roberts?" people cried. Everyone seemed to be calling for John Muckler's head at the time. Ottawa wasn't faring too well in the standings, either. A lot of people were after Brian Murray, too. Remember when,...
Springdogg writes...

How Much Does a Coach Help?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Before this year I thought a coach’s impact was minimal. Sure he could design a system and give great pep talks, but it was up to the players on the ice to execute. Then along came the day of December 12, 2006. The Blues were scheduled to play the Blackhawks that night and it was announced that Andy Murray would be taking over the vacant head coach position for the Blues...
ChicosBailBonds writes...

Can it get any better?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The first two games of this series have been probably the best playoff hockey games I've seen in a while (and I've seen a lot, from the 4OT Buffalo-New Jersey thriller that was probably one of of not THE best 1-0 games ever, to Stevie Y ripping THAT shot over Jon Casey's shoulder in 1996), mostly because for some reason the Galactic Empire (aka the NHL) has allowed its ref...
mattperry writes...

First Blog, New Hope

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Loyal Readers, Welcome to my first blog on the Hockey Buzz site. It is that time of year. Sometimes I think it is as much fun as the season. Our beloved Oil have a lot of holes to fill, no untouchables, loads of draft picks and room under the Salary Cap. That is an equation for an exciting off season. The biggest hole in my opinion is defensemen. The new NHL you n...
sixtyone writes...

Awards, trades, free agents...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
So here we are with the NHL Awards on tonight (does anyone really care?) and most of the talk seems to be around the MVP, Goalie and Rookie. If it was up to me, it would be Sid for MVP, Luongo for Goalie, and Staal for Rookie. We'll see how that pans out. I'm not sure how much trade talk goes on at the awards. I'm torn on what I would like to happen. I wouldn'...
Yes folks the baron is back after a lenghty battle with kidney stones. Who knew a stone that was 5mm could kick the crap out of someone so badly. Anywho I digress...Lots has happened in the last month. I'm not going to rehash the cup final as that horse has been put to pasture. All I will say is congrats to both Anaheim and Ottawa for making it. The Sens came out o...
Article concerning Emery is posted on [url]www.tsn.ca[/url]. The highlight of the article is that Ray Emery will be out for 2-3 months while rehabilitating his injury. This will cause two interesting wrinkles for Bryan Murray. 1. What to do with Martin Gerber 2. How this affects Ray Emery's contract status On the first issue, if Bryan Murray can trade Martin G...
With the acquisition of Vesa Toskala, The Leafs are poised to enter next season with a battle for the number one spot in goal, just like last year, only this time its serious. I mean, how many people actually thought that Aubin had a shot at being the number one goaltender? Sure he played good at the end of the 05/06 season, but there was no pressure on him. He was back...
During the lockout, NHL pundits often pointed to the NFL as having a salary cap system that works. The difference between the NFL and NHL is that NFL contracts are not guaranteed. If you sign an NFL player to a five year deal, and they stink in the first year, they can be cut. The NFL team is only on the hook for any guaranteed/bonus money that was already paid out. Th...
With the recent aquisitions or Toskala and Bell, some people in leafland are still somehow on the offensiven and why? JFJ gave a clear indication that the one spot he intended to upgrade in his club was the the goaltending, and he did so in a reasonable fashion. This draft was looked at by many as a weak draft year, so why not lose a first round pick in order to recieve...
The sooner, the better. The message is as follows: Swap Souray's negotiating rights to San Jose for Hannan's. Straight up if you have to. And do it now, while there's still time to sign him. Hurry!
The last two days have just been torturous as a San Jose Sharks fan. I woke up Sunday at 8am (pacific time) with a spring in my step and anticipation on my mind. After watching Vesa Toskala and everybody's favorite whipping boy in San Jose this season, Mark Bell, being shipped off to Toronto, all the talk was the Sharks were setting things up perfectly to sign Chris Drur...
With the aquisition of Jason Blake and Vesa Toskala the leafs are gaurenteed to do better. But how much better? Our team for next year seems pretty much all offense guided. On defence we only have one defensive defensemen in Hall Gill. On forward we have only two two way players assuming Peca is gone those being Chad Kilger and Boyd Devereaux. But now that we have To...
duxown writes...

Ducks rumblings.....

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
UPDATE(12:07) Souray is probably either to L.A. or San Jose, but New Jersey, NYI, and NYR have all made pitches. Burke may not trade before start of season but instead will send people down to AHL to clear salary Burke is still talking to 4th line players. First of all, Ducks have apparently made a pitch for Souray(dux4) and it's down to New Jersey, Kings, and Duck...
jlauffer writes...

What the Leafs Should do

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I think the moves that would help the leafs would be to sign Alexei Yashin and Micheal Peca. Next get rid of Raycroft and Kubina in a trade to the Yotes for Jovanovski and Cujo. Then sign Brian Berad who in won the Calder in the 1996-1997 season and racked up some good points with Columbus in the 2005-2006. IMO that would be the best set of moves for my Leafs. Thoug...
jlauffer writes...

What The Leafs Should Do

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I think the moves that would help the Leafs the most would be to sign Alexei Yashin and Micheal Peca. Next get rid of Raycroft and Kubina in a trade to the Yotes for Jovanovski and Cujo. Then sign Brian Berad who won the Calder in the 1996-1997 season and racked up some good points with Columbus in the 2005-2006 season. IMO that would be the best set of moves for my L...
[u][b]By: Jon Cunningham[/b][/u] The signing of Goaltender Scott Clemmensen by the Leafs has raised a lot of questions. He has reportedly been signed to a 1-Year deal worth 1-Million, the Contract also is reported to be a two-way contract, meaning Clemmensen can be sent down to the Marlies and only a small fraction his contract will count against the cap. Well, this...
jjuhasz writes...

If I were Darcy Regier

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
This goes without saying, but i'm going to say it anyway. WHY THE HELL DID YOU NOT SIGN CHRIS DRURY!!!! Unfortunately, the sabres dropped the ball on that one with their in-season negotiation blunder with captain clutch, but this is what I would do from here after the vanek signing moving forward. First, the sabres need a two-way gritty forward and mike comrie would hav...
duxown writes...

The Real Free Agency

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Sheldon Souray to New Jersey. This statement has been repeated more than a few times in the chat room and many of us rumour hounds smelled a signing. But it still hasn't happened. Why? Souray has more than likely been asking for an unreasonable contract. Sure he had 20 goals. Sure he's great on the powerplay. But defense wins championships. I personally couldn't see why...
[i]Kevin Lowe finally got the big name UFA he was looking for, and the third new face for next season's blueline. But it comes at a steep cost. Is Sheldon Souray worth a cap hit of $5.4 million per year? Hard to say right now. But for some reason, for the last few hours I’ve been seeing flashes of Jason Spezza and some pylon in a Habs sweater flashing through my mind...
I have always thought I had a good head for hockey, but I never knew I should have my own 5 minutes on the MSG network to speculate. Take a look at a collection of my three favorite posts over the past few months. You have to admit, I did pretty well in my statements. My one true errata that I sadly must admit is the fact that Jed Ortmeyer is no longer in the equation, ...
Ottawa Senators general manager Bryan Murray today announced the re-signing of goaltender Ray Emery to a three-year agreement. In his second full NHL season in 2006-07, Emery played in 58 regular season games earning 33 wins, 16 losses, and six overtime defeats. He finished tied for sixth in the NHL in shutouts (5), tied for seventh in save-percentage (.910) and tied fo...
I was wondering to myself why Brian Murray would come out and admit that he had an agreement to trade Wade Redden. There are several possibilites: - Murray could be trying to light a fire under Redden in the hopes to encourage him to get back to his former self. This doesn't seem like the smartest move as it is not the GM's job to motivate players and if that was what...
saneopinion writes...

looking north makes me smile

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The best part about talking to oiler fans now is by far and away the polite smile and nod you get to give them when they talk about their "new oilers". I love how trading away the captain of a team that was floundering due to lack of heart for a young d who was extremely disappointing is hailed as a good move. I mean, why would they want Jason Smith's "heart and soul" af...
CanesRallyCry writes...

'Canes D: Need Fixing?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Early in the post season Jim Rutherford was very active in trying to acquire one Joni Pitkanen. Obviously he would have like to employ his puck moving abilities and youth to a fairly stay-at-home veteran D-Corps. As everyone knows, Rutherford did not land Pitkanen, the Oilers did. The man who was on the trading block, Niclas Wallin, remains a 'Cane. It wasn't that th...
TheStig writes...

Mark Bell

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
This is another classic example of John Ferguson Jr.'s incompetence as a GM, trading a 1st & 2nd round pick in 2007, and a 4th round pick in 2009 for Vesa Toskala and Mark Bell. This trade was dumb from day 1, first off this was the year the leafs finally had a chance to land a decent forward could've snagged Cherepanov or Esposito or many others that were still aroun...
Luongo07 writes...

Off To The Game...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
This past weekend my co-horts and I got together and drew out our Canucks tickets. I managed to snatch this evenings pre-season contest against the Sharks. Although, I was not impressed with the fact that it is pre-season, I am rather intrigued to see some of the notable prospects that the Canucks have to offer this season. Namely, Mayson Raymond. I am quite pleased th...
npc902 writes...

Calm Down Leafs Nation

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Welcome to my first blog...ever. After reading the comments from so many disgruntled Leafs fans, and watching the Leafs pre-season games as of late I felt I had to start my own blog so I could throw my own 2 cents into the mix. My message to leafs nation: Calm down. Every move the Leafs make is scrutinized over and over again by the fans, and the media. Folks, this is p...
I have to say, i am very anxious after watching the pre-season. The two maple leaf goalies that were supposed to push each other were not very good. Toskala did not even win a game in the pre-season. Now that is in the past, my question is, who will be starting in net against the Senators on Wednesday? Toskala was booed by the home crowd, so he may take that game off, howe...
thechad13 writes...

Goaltending

Posted Friday | Comments 1
After the first two games of the season here are a few thoughts The Leafs started the season with two games against the defending Eastern Conference champions and started 0-1-1. When you look at the record it's not really that impressive in fact it's kind of ugly. With that being said all I have to say is don't worry fellow Leaf fans it could be a lot worse. The Leaf...
sixtyone writes...

It's how you bounce back...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Last night was what the Leafs needed. Not a blow out win, but a strong game for 60 min. That's what has killed them for the last few years. We saw this last year, games where the Leafs played their game for 60 min, they won without question. It's the games when they decided not to play for the 2nd or 3rd that killed all hope of making the playoffs. Gamache had a big ...
Alexander Edler has been recalled from the Manitoba Moose(AHL) and will suit up tonight against the Sharks. Its the first time we'll get to see him play since suffering a hip injury in the pre-season. Edler was called up because Lukas Krajicek blocked a bunch of shots last night and is day to day with a foot injury. Jannik Hansen is getting his hand x-rayed tomorrow and h...
One year ago, the governments of the Philadelphia region were discussing adding Prozac to the water supply to keep unhappy Flyers fans from jumping off the Walt Whitman bridge as the team staggered to a 1-8-1 start on the way to a 56 point season. Now a year later, much is good about the Flyers. -Trade Deadline pick up Martin Biron has been providing good to excellen...
FrankD writes...

Penguins vs Leafs preview

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Pens take on the Leafs for the second time this season tomorrow night in Pittsburgh. If the last time these two met up was any indication for the rest of the season's meetings, then I'd say we're in for another scoring frenzy. Ten goals were scored between the two last game, as the Penguins rallied to win by the final of 6-4 after an empty netter from Maxime Talbot ...
jammer21 writes...

Blues expected record: 80-2-0

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
At least, in Andy Murray's mind, the Blues should expect to win every game, and that's why I love Andy Murray as a coach. I know every professional goes out to win every game, but I'll never forget the story from last year, as told by John Kelly, the Blues broadcast man, when Murray asked the Blues how many games they needed to win to make the playoffs. No one had a gu...
Jeremy Rutherford who covers the Blues for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and stltoday.com had this to say yesterday prior to the Blues game in Columbus: "[i]Murray continues to emphasize the work Perron is getting off the ice. While everyone agrees with that, I get the feeling that some in the club want to see Perron in a game soon. That decision continues to be left with...
The Blues are freakishly healthy right now. With [b]Erik Johnson [/b]nearly set to return, the Blues could have as many as eight "top six" defensemen available on a given night. At forward and in goal they have no one currently laid up. This makes dressing a team each night a good but difficult decision to make for the Head Coach. A lot has been said in the early day...
To all Leaf fans around the world, dont you just hate seeing our beloved Maple Leafs lose especially in a tight affair to our hated rivals Les Canadiens. I know i do, i like most Leaf fans would love to see the Leafs go 82-0 in a season but nothing could be further from the truth, though the Leafs do try and try but continue to give away all the points that they can. The L...
JARRET STOLL IS HAVING ANOTHER TOUGH YEAR IN OIL COUNTRY AND I HAVE COMPILED A FEW REASONS THAT EDMONTON COULD DEAL HIM SOONER THAN LATER. REASON #1 CONTRACT STOLL IS A RESTRICTED FREE AGENT AT THE END OF THE SEASON. THE OILERS NEED TO SPEND THEIR MONEY ON PLAYERS SUCH AS PITKANEN AND GILBERT WHICH ARE TWO YOUNG UP AND COMING D-MEN WHO ALONG...
bongo_guy writes...

Liles/Svatos

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Recently there has been much talk surrounding these two young, very talented players and probably for good reason. Liles is coming off of a superb year in which he was scoring with the "big boys" of the defensive world but is off to a rather slow start this season, while Svatty obviously had a disappointing year in comparison to his rookie campaign, but has started to pick...
TheStig writes...

Ray Emery Show

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Ray Emery was sent home from Ottawa Senators practice this mroning, just heard this on Hockey Central at Noon. I will update this story as I find out more information on it, updates will appear at the bottom of this page. Update 12:40pm So as it turns out Ray Emery wasn't feeling well showed up 5 minutes before they senators were supposed to practice and informed the...
When you're the Manchester Phoenix, that's who. Last night in the Altrincham Ice Dome, the Phoenix beat Hull Stingrays 3-2 in the second leg of the British Knockout Cup. The result of the first leg was 5-3 to Hull Stingrays, so Manchester needed to win by 3 clear goals to progress to the final. And they were 3 goals ahead up until 56.57 when Nikolai Ladygin scored for H...
Which is exactly what is required at this point in time. Two games played, two games won, 4 points gained. Coventry had a double header (what you North Americans would call a home and home series, never made sense to me that one but there you go) against 9th placed Hull Stingrays. Being brutally honest, anything less than two wins would've been severely disappointing. ...
GAGNER#89 writes...

GARON IS A STAR!!!!!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
1. [b]Raycroft Is More Depressed Than You[/b] Poor Andrew. Sittin there on the bench, growin a suicide beard, thinkin about how Letterman stole his thunder. Even though old Howard Hughes hasnt stopped a lot of pucks lately, you have to assume that the beard will help him in the second half. Gigure showed us all in 2003 what a beard can do for you in a contract year. For a...
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...
Needless to say, Ferguson has left one hell of a mess in Toronto. Currently, Toronto has about 49.8 Million dollars committed to players, with about .7 million dollars left in Cap space. However, for next season, there are 19 players signed to 44 million dollars. Assuming that the cap goes up to 53 million, we will have 9 million left to ATTEMPT to get back, Sundin, Steen,...
After the recent 174-foot goal Vesa Toskala allowed against the Islanders, many non-Leafs fans may question the 31 year old goaltender, but that would be a mistake if you're not aware what kind of season he's endured with the Blue and White. To begin, when the Leafs acquired Vesa Toskala in the summer, they were not expecting top five quality goaltending. Fact is, Tosk...
A-Mar writes...

Have you seen this goalie?

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It will be a relief to some that I've yet to see Andrew Raycroft's picture on a milk carton (yes, Mrs.Raycroft, I'm sure he's okay). I drink a lot of milk (for healthy bones) so I would be the first to know were he missing from anywhere outside of the rink. But missing on the rink he is. He hasn't started a game in what seems to be ages (November 18th I believe, but I'...
Remember last year when the Sens were the favorite...but Brian Murray was playing the underdog card with his team and the media? Well, it worked. He got his guys to play a physical brand of hockey that probably no Sens team had ever played before. And it was good enough to get them to the Finals. A year later and the roles seem to be reversed...with the Sens truly...
Zholtok33 writes...

To Visor or Not To Visor?

Posted Monday | Comments 4
Already, news outlets are insisting that visors are the key to salvation. It's a cry that comes up on every big facial injury involving a high stick or a stray puck. [i]If only he wore a visor[/i] they say, shaking their heads. Of course we all know that it is impossible to make the claim that a visor would have absolutely prevented the injury suffered by Braydon Coburn...
[img]http://www.upstate.edu/cdb/grossanat/imgs/skullantmax2.jpg [/img] If you listen carefully, you just might hear the sounds of knees jerking in a building in New York City. The powers that be in the NHL are cringing right now at another prime-time, graphic injury to one of its young players, perhaps even a budding star, during its showcase playoffs. [i]Those same p...
After Cliff Fletcher traded the Leafs' 7th overall pick -- along with conditional draft picks -- to the New York Islanders for their 5th overall selection, I had my suspicions he was after the highly coveted Russian sniper, Nikita Filatov. But nicer words were never spoken after the Toronto Maple Leafs selected Kelowna Rockets (OHL) defenseman, Luke Schenn. In Schenn, t...
In arguably the most important off-season that Toronto will see in the 'rebuilding years' to follow, Fletcher has stepped up and pressed the 'purge-system' button. Fletcher has served notice that Darcy Tucker will be bought out, and has placed Andrew Raycroft on waivers along with teammate Kyle Wellwood and with Sundin's negotiating rights being bantered about, it is o...
mslepp writes...

The 2007 UFA Frenzy Revisited

Posted Monday | Comments 0
In this blog we'll go back to this time last year and get some hindsight analysis of the UFA signings from last season. But first. It should be noted that the UFA process is not a way in which GM's look to find bargains or good prices on players. It's an all-out bidding war for the services of players who have earned the right to seek "fair" market value for their w...
The Avalanche signed two former members of the Toronto Maple Leafs in Andrew Raycroft and Darcy Tucker who were just recently bought out of their contracts. The signing of Andrew Raycroft is, in my opinion, more about goalie coach Jeff Hackett than Raycroft. Hackett was brought to the Avs to work with Jose Theodore and bring him back on track. Both of them already worke...
markoftrad writes...

Huge Update On Meszaros

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Well by now anyone that cares about the sitiuation has heard what transpired at the brief media meeting with Murray at the Bell Sensplex today. If not heres the link to tsn http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=247779&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl After recieving a phone call about the meeting, I raced down to catch the back half of what was a brief conference. Rumors...
The past 24 hours have showed a lot of progress and speculation with regards to the Meszaros contract negotions. I'm going to write the two sides opinions(or at least what we know) and my opion of who is right, and than you can comment your opinion. [b][i][u]Murrary: Bryan murray would like to have Meszaros back. He would prefer to have MEszaros on a short term contract...
knucklesandwich writes...

Ray Emery's KHL Debut

Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
This morning I managed to watch Ray Emery's KHL debut for Atlant Mytishchi vs. Spartak Moscow. Emery's Atlant lost 6-5 in overtime with the winning goal scored by Stefan Ruzhichka on the power play. Emery looked a little shaky, he let in a goal from the point with no one standing in front of him and was beaten on a break-away by a tied up forward whose shot seemed to su...
I have not been posting in a while. I have graduated from university, went on vacation, started my new job. But with the Avs’ training camp just around the corner I will try to write more frequently about the Avs. What can we expect from the Avalanche this upcoming season? Some analysts have already made up their mind and don’t think Colorado will qualify for the play...
ClaudeLemieux22 writes...

Burgandy Revolver

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Two games in the books and... yikes. I'm very curious to hear from other fans, and Avs fans in particular, what their take is on the goalie situation (mess). How much patience and/or faith do you have in Budaj and Raycroft? How much last season flavored rotation amongst mediocrity can your stomach take? I was optimistic that the Avs had a #1 guy between Budaj m...
With the start of a new hockey year and the opening of my hockeybuzz, I thought I would post an old blog of mine from many years ago without any alterations. I think about this blog the first time I walk into an arena during the start of every new season. I welcome everyone's comments on all my blogs and hope that you all find something in my writing. As the demands of...
predram writes...

Wednesday thoughts

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
BURKE LEAVES DUCKS?!? Yes it has happened. As reported by TSN and Ek, Ducks GM Brian Burke has indeed left his job after indicating that he was not looking to seek an extension with the team. Assistant GM Bob Murray will take over the reigns and much deservingly so. Murray has been around different organizations in different roles. He has had previous GM experience with...
Actually I'm just kidding, This ship is still at the bottom of the ocean. Yes i realize its very early in the season and things CAN turn around, but this club only shows flash's of potential and then reverts to the nightmare of last season. And I've tryed very hard to stay positive about my beloved Sens but you can only hang on for so long before it's finally time to...
After clearing waivers, Luke Richardson has decided that it's time to hang up his skates, and is expected to make the transition to a coaching position with the Ottawa Senators. Nothing has been confirmed yet, but Richardson is likely to accept an assistant coach position in Binghampton. Richardson has had conversations with Sens GM Bryan Murray about such a move, and it i...
The Carolina Hurricanes have just announced that they have fired head coach Peter Laviolette, who led the team to the 2006 Stanley Cup championship. They have replaced him with former Hurricanes and Maple Leafs head coach Paul Maurice. Sources say Maurice will remain on as head coach at least until the end of the season, at which point the position will be re-evaluated ...
A snapshot of the Ottawa record since the lockout is revealing. 2005-06: 52-21-9, 113 pts, 314 gf 211 ga, 1st place East 2006-07: 48-25-9, 105 pts, 288 gf 221 ga, 4th place East 2007-08: 43-31-8, 94 pts, 261 gf 247 ga, 7th place East 2008-09: 13-17-5, 31 pts, 83 gf 100 ga, 12th place East (after 35GP) which can be projected as 30-40-12, 72 pts, 194 gf, 234 ga...
shevy writes...

Rayzor Sharp

Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Avs came away with 2 points in their latest match against the Blackhawks, arguably the best young team in hockey. Aside from the up tempo new style Avs fans have seen of late, Andrew Raycroft has been steadily making his case for the #1 job which has been held by Peter Budaj. Now critics (and most hockey fans) will agree that Raycroft sucks. Yes, this is sadly true how...
shevy writes...

So...Playoffs?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The Avs beat the Penguins Saturday afternoon 5-3 and after this one I'm pretty sure we can all pump our fists knowing that the 'Wolski show' we're all seeing is for real. Matched up against Sid the dirty fighting Kid, we came out on top limiting the damage as well as putting up some key markers. Of course the other guys came through as well, David Jones and Cody McCleod pi...
Now I know that a lot of people are saying that the team needs to just give up and let it sink. I don't feel this is really going to do anything! This team has a good roster, it just has had too many injuries to too many key players. Now the important thing to notice is that there have been no season ending injuries. Although some say Sakic's injury might be a season e...
BluesHockeyOhBaby! writes...

Not Giving Up Yet

Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
I was at the Joe last night for the Blues-Wings game and I couldn't help but be very impressed with the Blues and how they played. They out-hustled the Wings to every loose puck, their offensive forecheck was great and it created some Red Wings defensive zone turnovers, and I really like the Blues for the most part being very active and aggressive on defense. I think th...
The Blues applied their best pressure of the series late in the second period last night. They tied the score at 2-2 with two goals and again had the puck in front of the net and close to the goal line. Luongo never appeared to have the puck covered as it was sliding around in the crease area and eventually crossed the line and into the net. It was ruled that the puck h...
Ray Emery. Say that name since Comcast Sportsnet's Tim Panaccio broke the news that it's almost a done deal that Sugar Ray is headed to the Flyers and Flyers fans have recoiled like Dracula from garlic. There have even been people who say the thought of Emery in Orange and Black makes them sick. I am stupefied at this reaction. The Flyers have a history of rolling the ...
Ray Emery. Say that name since Comcast Sportsnet's Tim Panaccio broke the news that it's almost a done deal that Sugar Ray is headed to the Flyers and Flyers fans have recoiled like Dracula from garlic. There have even been people who say the thought of Emery in Orange and Black makes them sick. I am stupefied at this reaction. The Flyers have a history of rolling the ...
lomac writes...

Brayden Schenn Will Be A Leaf

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Look for this years NHL Entry Draft to be a mirror reflection of last years draft (from a leafs perspective). When we all consider the possible moves that Brian Burke can make, one seems to make the most sense. He claims he does not want to give up too much, but we all know the steep price that comes with getting into the top 3. However, another significant jump from 7th t...
gkmkiller writes...

Heatley to be a Ranger?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
According to a recent post by Eklund the Rangers may be close to acquiring Dany Heatley from Ottawa. Here is what Eklund had to say, "* The Rangers are reportedly offering a deal that may include Chris Drury to the Sens for Dany Heatley. A source close to the scene in NY said that "There are major wheels in motion, and I believe Heatley to be a Ranger by Sunday." Person...
HI everyone Flyers prospect camp fell during my busiest week of the summer. I had the pleasure to go Friday and Sunday. Friday the Orange team again beat the very talented black 2-1. Today the black team won in a shoot out care of Mr Dingle. Pat Maroon continues to dominate during this camp. He really is a presence there. Riopel and Morrison did excel...
So news continues to spread over where Heatley may or may not end up and what's coming back. Many seem to believe that Heatley will not return as much as he's worth considering his media portrayal over the last couple months has hurt his chances of bringing a better return. However, Bryan Murray knows exactly what he wants for Heatley and he's not going to accept a trad...
Rob McGowan writes...

Isle Cry For Help

Posted Saturday | Comments 573
With training camp set to open soon with the start of the regular season just weeks behind, you would think fans would be gearing up and getting amped to watch Islanders hockey. For some, that really isn't the case. I have said it before and I will say it again, I am not one for politics. I am not well-versed in the matter (although I know I should be and have been ...
I don't blog very often for good reason, I rarely have much of value to say and when I do I would much rather have a beverage or two then sit down and write. Sadly, after yet another uninspired performance by the Oilers last night, alcohol only dulled the frustrations rather then extinguished them like usual. Yeah, I know...its not healthy to drink away the anger, tel...
Hockeychaz writes...

Anaheim Ducks Offseason

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Yesterday Los Angeles wrapped up its 2010 NHL entry draft with a fizzle, as quickly as it came teams from around the league wheeled and dealed for picks and players after that big question was finally answered. Who comes first? Seguin or Hall? Though both the Edmonton Oilers and Boston Bruins got great players as it was almost a toss-up, other teams had to rely on a bit ...
UFA Day is fast approaching. We’re less than 24 hours away from what has turned into the most exciting time of the year for fans of the NHL. Fans of every team wake up on July 1st in great anticipation to see what their team does. Many fans are thrilled at the end of the day while others are grossly disappointed. Rangers’ fans have been subjected to a mixed bag over...
etownhockey writes...

No trading Souray?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Now that Souray cleared waivers, it's clear that a suitable trade isn't available. It's likely the Oilers will need to accept a poor contract and possibly an undesirable player to boot. Leading to another problem of it's own, a trade that could haunt the Oilers for years to come. However, in the best interest of the Oilers, they shouldn't make that trade...not yet anyways....
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...
With the dismal season the Oilers had last season, you can't help but wonder how the youngsters such as Hall, Eberle, Paajarvi-Svensson & Omark are going to do. Hall is one of the most hyped first overall picks of the new millenium. That's a lot of pressure to put on the kid's shoulders. His years in Windsor made him more of a hot commodity than the new iPhone 4 t...
lately i have noticed a stupid an really unfounded string of Souray haters guys like richard cloutier who are really low balling the talented defense man. After a month or so i believe these "haters" will change their tune watching the guy with hardest shot in the game on the oil PP scoring goals and being a assist machine (if ANYONE on the oilers can tip). His first pass...
With the Avalanche sitting in 8th Place, in a tight Western Conference. Meaning, on any given night you could be in 4th place or within a few loses and beeing out of the Playoff Picture and as low as 11th Place. So, with that said. With the Trading Deadline Fast Approching. The Avalanche havent had any consistent Goaltending all year and the Defense not there on some n...
RhadLife writes...

Never Nuff Nucks

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Right off the hop I would like to tip my cap to Peter Tessier... He does a great job of contributing to Nuck Nation. Unfortunately I am a huge leech and it is about time I see if there this is the right soil to seed some of my own passion for my life long team of which now I am 38. A bit on where my perspective comes from. I played hockey competitively until my second ...
yarkowskyt writes...

Tambo-Do Nothing?

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Many believe that Hemsky and Penner are at their highest value on Monday morning. Arguments can definitely be made to support this. But think of the value these players give the Oilers based on return perceived... Big guy, largest in the forward corps of the Oilers who can score 30 goals per year... who is out there Tambellini could get back and from who? Penner is t...
The last time Ray Emery was in the Ponda Center, June 6th 2007, I was standing on my seat serenading Emery and laughing my head off when he scored on himself playing for the Ottawa Senators. (http://videosift.com/video/Stanely-Cup-Game-5-Chris-Phillips-Own-Goal) We (Anaheim fans atleast) knew that the Ducks were going to with the cup much earlier then this. With Teemus ...
[b]Ryan Nugent Hopkins (Edmonton Oilers)[/b] Ryan Nugent Hopkins is this year’s first overall and like the many players taken at first overall before him, he plans on making the team right away. In fact, the last first overall pick not to start in the NHL the season that he was drafted was Erik Johnson in 2006. History of course is on his side, but do the Edmont...
[b]Ryan Nugent Hopkins (Edmonton Oilers)[/b] Ryan Nugent Hopkins is this year’s first overall and like the many players taken at first overall before him, he plans on making the team right away. In fact, the last first overall pick not to start in the NHL the season that he was drafted was Erik Johnson in 2006. History of course is on his side, but do the Edmont...
Maybe this is a bad time to write this. I'm always pretty harsh on my Sharks, but sorting out my thoughts on them during a skid that has repeatedly exposed every flaw that this team has to offer is a terrible idea. I'm supposed to be thinking positive and productive thoughts, not coming down from a bender, weeping in my unlit apartment alone with no shirt and just a pai...
Jeff2354 writes...

The Oilers Need Defense?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
With the draft coming up, the thought on most Oiler fans minds is do we take a defenseman (Ryan Murray) instead of Yakupov to fill our need on the blueline. But will it even help? The thing to consider is that this team is not a contender. We are in year 3 of the rebuild and just starting to climb out of the basement. Therefore, there's no need to do anything drastic. ...
[b]The Stars were one of the few teams that made some moves on day one of free agency. While the Avalenche in my mind not only made the most noise but also made the best moves, the Stars in my summation didn’t do so bad themselves. Let’s take a look at each of the two players they picked up in short order. Starting with the least important piece…[/b] Aaron Rome is...
I was pleased to see the Senators organization extend Chris Neil's contract. I feel this was a no brainer for head office due to the relatively low contract and the influence #25 has in the nation's capital. Bringing a tough guy presence with a 30+ point upside is certainly worth 3 years at 5.75M. While Ottawa Paul MacLeaned its way into a new era, it is important to k...
cmr.266 writes...

The future of Matt Read?

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Flyers seem to be recognized league-wide for their abundance of young, talented forwards. Of course, whether we’re talking about development, ceiling, or prime trade bait in acquiring an upgrade on the blueline or a proven sniper on the wing, the two names that get tossed around the most are recent first-round picks Sean Couturier and Brayden Schenn. Often more di...
[i][b]June 21[/b][/i] Now, shifting over to the Los Angeles Kings, who I hope are resting and healing fast for the real upcoming 82-game season starting in October... The pending trade of backup, yet capable #1 goaltender Jonathan Bernier is obviously the most important next step for GM Dean Lombardi. With the Toronto Maple Leafs emerging as front runners as of ri...
Along with possible Clowe and Horton deals to New Jersey and Columbus respectively, TSN's Bob McKenzie also says that Ray Emery will sign with the Flyers shortly after noon eastern today. Complete 180 turn from a few days ago when it was reported that he was close to a contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks. In 29 games with the Flyers in 2009-2010, he was 16-11...
Along with possible Clowe and Horton deals to New Jersey and Columbus respectively, TSN's Bob McKenzie also says that Ray Emery will sign with the Flyers shortly after noon eastern today. Complete 180 turn from a few days ago when it was reported that he was close to a contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks. In 29 games with the Flyers in 2009-2010, he was 16-11...
[b]July 7[/b] First of all, I would like to thank all those who responded to my latest post (especially Roadrunner!) Great to talk hockey with you folks!...Also, cannot pass up the opportunity to have some fun with a Flyers fan, whose organization throws around money like its candy and whines about it later! And oh, how the once mighty and class of the East has falle...
Mason Raymond should not be overlooked when talking about the slim free agent pool left and the forward position. Look for Raymond to be signed almost immediately following the signings of Grabo, Brunner, Morrow. Raymond is rumoured to be considered a backup plan/2nd option for a depth forward behing the previously mentioned forwards. ...
Premièrement, j'aimerais annoncer que j'aime beaucoup la signature de Douglas Murray hier. Il s'agit d'un défenseur avec des lacunes en ce qui concerne la vitesse, mais le Canadiens devait absolument se trouver un peu de muscle pour la ligne bleue. L'addition de Douglas Murray hier veut dire que le Canadiens de Montréal se retrouve dans la même situation que l'an derni...
First of all, I have to say that I am quite happy with the acquisition of Douglas Murray. rnSure, he may not be the most complete player with speed lacking sorely in his game, but the Canadiens absolutely needed to add a little bit of grit on the back end with Emelin for the better part of the first half of the season. Oddly enough, the Murray addition means that the Canad...
kev1586 writes...

Murray signs, Gorges vs. Diaz

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Apologies if this ends up being posted twice. Someone asked for a translation of my French blog, tried about 12 hours ago and it still hasn't shown up so here goes! First of all, I'd like to state that I am a fan of the Douglas Murray signing. Sure, this is a veteran that might be lacking in the speed department, but the Canadiens really needed to add a little muscle on th...
During training camp, today, Jaromir Jagr left early with "soreness". As we know, "soreness" is usually media speak for injury. In the case that he is injured, the Devils have a few options to work with. 1.) Damien Brunner - His name has alredy been worn out, but none the less, he would be a likely replacement if Jagr is predicted to be injured into the regular sea...
This is my first attempt ever to write a blog, errors will be made and all this is my outside opinion, will not have proof for any of my statements just thoughts and point of view from a fan outside of Columbus area. With 2013 camp opening yesterday I would like to give my insight to which rookies will survive the cut and the dream of becoming an NHL player becomes a re...
thehockeypooler writes...

Hockey. Is. Back.

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Thank god Hockey is back. I was getting antsy there. I was feeling like a man covered in honey standing by an anthill. Boy, am I ever glad that THAT is over. I just walked into an A&W in Montreal, and the employees were checking their phones behind the counter. In French, I asked them the score and the guy said, "The Leafs won 4-3. But, I'm happy. I'm a Leafs...
Iban3z writes...

My View on Emery's Fight

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Last Friday some people headed out to the mall, the movies or simply stayed home to enjoy a relaxing night. Others headed down to the Wells Fargo Center to catch what they hoped would be a good hockey game. A win is always a plus but a good close hockey game is always entertaining. Keeping in mind that Ovechkin was out with an injury and that the Flyers were 3-8, there was...
We're approaching the new year and the Flyers sit at 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 14-15-3 record. The inconsistency issues - aside from the mostly stellar play between the pipes for Canadian Olympic hopeful, Steve Mason - continue to plague this team in a year where there are fewer excuses than last season. They have been one of the healthier teams in the leag...
andydrmm writes...

Conditioned Sabres Fans

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Today, the Buffalo Sabres took a step towards the rebuild and hired the GM that Pat LaFontaine feels can lead the Sabres out of the darkness. Tim Murray has been brought in to assess talent and build the Stanley Cup champions that the Buffalo faithful deserve. I was at work this morning when I received my notification stating that the press conference was scheduled for...
This afternoon, WGR's Jeremy White has posted that Buffalo Sabres general manager, Tim Murray, "let slip" that he is discussing a deal with Ottawa Senators GM, Bryan Murray. No specifics on who it involves on either side but Sabre fans may want to review young players in the Ottawa organization. Tim Murray has stated that he is looking for young prospects amongst all the t...
This afternoon, WGR's Jeremy White has posted that Buffalo Sabres general manager, Tim Murray, "let slip" that he is discussing a deal with Ottawa Senators GM, Bryan Murray. No specifics on who it involves on either side but Sabre fans may want to review young players in the Ottawa organization. Tim Murray has stated that he is looking for young prospects amongst all the t...
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...
As many know, the Ryan Miller/Steve Ott trade yielded a conditional draft pick for the Sabres. If situations arise where GM Tim Murray can use the Blue's 2014 first round pick, the scouting staff better be prepared. As there is a dire need at the wing position, Alex Tuch, a winger in the U.S National Develpment Program, should be on watch. I have not seen much of what he c...
I'm just going to come out and say it; Tim Murray is the man! Its bordering on a man crush. I love everything he did surrounding the trade deadline. WGR morning radio show host and fellow Syracuse alum Jeremy White hit the nail on the head: "everything he did I would have done." I could not agree more. He moved most of his expiring contracts for future assets, both pr...
As a sabres fan I was very pleased with how Tim Murray handled his first trade deadline with the Sabres. Over past years fans would watch the trade deadline come and go without the team making a splash (with the exception of the Hogdson trade). However this year it was different Murray was very active in the days up to the deadline, dealing miller and ott to the blues for ...
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...
[b]Yak is a bust and they should have taken Murray[/b] Yakupov was the unanimous top prospect (ranked 1st by Central scouting, ISS, The Hockey News, everyone’s favourite Craig Button, etc.). When picking 1st, you simply don’t draft for need, you draft the best player available. In his first season in Edmonton, he showed why he was ranked 1st by most by leadin...
First and foremost, my apologies from disappearing from the world for a bit. I With having my original job privatized, then getting a new job immediately afterwards, been a bit busy. However, I’m back for the 2014-2015 with renewed vigor. We’re now officially a week away from the 2014 NHL draft. There’s one way to look at the past season; You can’t get much ...
[url]http://capitals.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=723988[/url]
SabresNHL writes...

Sabres Make Big Splash in FA

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
     Tim Murray and the Buffalo Sabres made big news on Tuesday, the start of the NHL's Free Agency period. To kick it off they made a trade with the Montreal Canadiens to acquire defenseman Josh Gorges. Gorges, 29, was a former alternate captain on the Canadiens and was being actively shopped. Not many saw this one coming at all, including myself. Gorges had rejec...
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...
Maybe the Penguins should stop playing the Flyers in Pittsburgh, because they can’t seem to beat them. Philadelphia is now 13-2-1, 11-1-1 in the regular season, against Pittsburgh at Consol Energy Center. Brayden Schenn scored twice to lead the Flyers to a 4-1 win Wednesday night. Philadelphia, with a record of 31-29-17, have already been eliminated from the postseas...
By now we know that the Flyers have a plethora of options when it comes to defensemen. But what about the last line of defense, behind them? [b]Steve Mason[/b] is the guy, obviously. When your starter finishes with the 3rd best save percentage in the entire league (.928) and 7th in goals against average (2.25) it’s normally revered to as a pretty successful season. ...
Hey Hockeyworld, Happy free-agency eve! I'm just getting around to this now because it's been weird to process all the big moves Murray made for us this past weekend! Darcy never made huge moves like this so it's really amazing to see what Tim Murray has done for us in such a short period of time. For July 1st I think these are some guys we could go after: Johnny Oduya ...
[b]Update 2[/b]: STL Post Distpatch's Tom Timmermann is reporting that the Blues signed Scottie Upshall today to a two-way deal and that the Blues are interested in a deal with Gomez (ugh). NOTE that this leaves the Blues with 14 forwards INCLUDING Berglund who by all accounts has not been placed on Injured Reserve as of yet but he will be. Infer what you will but this a...
Two Western Hockey League teammates that led their team in scoring this past season and their futures as NHL rivals. Brayden Point has gained a lot of attention since being selected 79th overall in the 2014 NHL entry draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Point was called a "hidden gem" by many around the hockey community after he burst onto the prospect scene in 2013-14 wh...
gipper0073 writes...

WHERE MY SABRES AT?

Posted Sunday | Comments 2
We are less than four weeks away from the 2016 NHL Entry Draft...and the rumours are starting to fly! There is a refreshing air of mystery around what Tim Murray and the Buffalo Sabres are going to do at this year's draft. The past two seasons saw the team, despite back-to-back last place finishes, drop to the number 2 spot. Last season, the Sabres surprised no one ...
gipper0073 writes...

If I Were Tim Murray

Posted Saturday | Comments 2
The job Buffalo Sabres GM Tim Murray has done since taking over the reins has, in my opinion, been largely underappreciated. Rebuilds aren’t easy. They often times can take a long time, with many wrong turns…ill-advised attempts to short-cut the process. But just two years in…Murray’s got the Sabres flying back into contention. The roster is young, fast, a...

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