Offseason: Ruffdog's TWITter feed

[ruffdog]

For some people offseason has started.

lulz.

NHL Entry LUTTERY LULZ tonight.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=275009


The winter of 2008-09 has come and gone, and hockey fans and experts alike are still in near-unanimous agreement that come June 26, London Knights forward John Tavares (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=john+tavares) will be called to the stage at Montreal's Bell Centre as the first overall selection of the NHL Entry Draft.
Tonight, the hockey world will find out which team is likely to make that call.
The Scotiabank NHL Draft Lottery will reveal the order of selection for the Draft, and it can be seen live on TSN at 8pm et/5pm pt.
Five teams have a chance to select first overall, with the 30th-place New York Islanders having a 48.2 per cent chance of coming out on top.
The winner of the lottery can move up a maximum of four positions in the draft, meaning if any team ranked sixth or lower among the 14 non-playoff teams wins the draw, the Islanders will retain the top pick.
Should Tampa Bay (18.8 per cent), Colorado (14.2 per cent), Atlanta (10.7 per cent) or Los Angeles (8.1 per cent) win the lottery, they will move up to the top spot and push the Islanders down to the second selection. No team can drop more than one spot from their current position.
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly will open the envelopes live on TSN tonight, and representatives from each of the teams eligible for the first pick will be on hand to find out the results.
TSN's top-five rated prospects are Tavares, Swedish defenceman Victor Hedman (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=victor+hedman), forward Matt Duchene (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=matt+duchene) of the OHL's Brampton Battalion, forward Evander Kane (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=evander+kane) of the WHL's Vancouver Giants, and forward Brayden Schenn (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=brayden+schenn) of the WHL's Brandon Wheat Kings.
If any of the three non-playoff Canadian teams are to have a shot at these players, they'll likely have to swing a deal to move up the draft board.
The Toronto Maple Leafs can move up as high as third and fall no lower than eighth. Ottawa will land somewhere between fifth and 10th, while Edmonton's selection will end up between sixth and 11th.
The lottery is only open to the 14 teams that failed to make the playoffs. The remaining teams pick in reverse order of finish starting with the 15th selection.

[johnnychacski]

Tavares is nasty. I can't wait to watch him play in the NHL.

[Satan]

Hopefully the sharks offseason doesn't start soon.

*crosses fingers*

[VoxAngelikus]

It'd be pretty funny if the Islanders don't get the #1 pick. Unless you're an Isles fan, of course. Are there any of those?

[Satan]

It'd be pretty funny if the Islanders don't get the #1 pick. Unless you're an Isles fan, of course. Are there any of those?apparently yes (http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7933848386)

[johnnychacski]

apparently yes (http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7933848386)

I love facebook groups that try to get to 1 million and hardly get thousand.

[Hoser]

Tavares is nasty. I can't wait to watch him play in the NHL.

He is good on TV, but I have seen him play 10+ times and it is just unreal in person.

[ADD]

For some people offseason has started.

lulz.

NHL Entry draft tonight.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=275009

The lottery is tonight, you Canadian dipshit. The actual draft is June 26-27

[VoxAngelikus]

I love facebook groups that try to get to 1 million and hardly get thousand.


Hey, the Isles FB fan group has 1,767 so you watch your mouth

[johnnychacski]

Hey, the Isles FB fan group has 1,767 so you watch your mouth

Oh man, my bad they can't even get 2,000 fans.

[Hoser]

So we sit 7th. Lets see some Burke Magic. I would like either Brayden Schenn(scheen brothers would be sweet to have), M. Paajarvi-Svensson, Evander Kane, Matt Duchene, Victor Hedman. Any of those would make me very happy. Oh and obviously the prize pig himself, John Tavares.

[Hoser]

Current draft order.

1 New York Islanders
2 Tampa Bay Lightning
3 Colorado Avalanche
4 Atlanta Thrashers
5 Los Angeles Kings
6 Phoenix Coyotes
7 Toronto Maple Leafs
8 Dallas Stars
9 Ottawa Senators
10 Edmonton Oilers
11 Nashville Predators
12 Minnesota Wild
13 Buffalo Sabres
14 Florida Panthers

[ruffdog]

MacT FIRED

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2009/04/15/spector_mactavish/

lulz

[ADD]

Shocking. Not.

[ruffdog]

WIld will not extend GM's contract.
He's gone and so is the Jacques Lamaire

and Gaborik is gone

[ruffdog]

Marc Crawford will coach the oils.

BOOK IT

[ruffdog]

and now some LULZ from Eklund

Quick update. Out at t-ball with the little guy.

This is the rumour.

Leafs trade their #1, Schenn, and Kaberle to Tampa for the second pick.

Then the leafs trade a package (no names yet ) and the #2 pick to the isles.

Leaf fans...would you do it?

I would for sure.

[shdaow]

Hahahahahahah.... I <3 Eklund


Seriously, if that ever happened I'd burn down the ACC.

[Pollo]

how can anyone take Eklund serious now in days? so you trade all that to move up to #2, when you know fully well Taveras is gone? makes complete sense.

[shdaow]

Markus Naslund to Retire (http://www.sportsnet.ca/thewire/hockey/2009/05/03/naslund_to_skate_off/)

New York... where stars go to die...

[wacker]

Now all they need is Wade Redden to call it quits

[Yammer]

Marc Crawford will coach the oils.

BOOK IT
oh hell no!


Also... Jagr has stated if he comes back to the NHL next season it will be with the Oilers

SOURCE: http://sports.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090430.wsptjagr30/GSStory/GlobeSportsHockey/home

[Hoser]

Stars are born in Edmonton and die in New York.... So that just doesnt make any sense.

[Yammer]

Oh Noes! Wang regrets going into the hole!

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=277344

[Satan]

Hopefully the sharks offseason doesn't start soon.

*crosses fingers*
So much for this.

All I can say is there are going to be some serious changes this offseason, or there better be. Doug Wilson was pissed, McLellen was pissed. They need to get rid of Thornton and Marleau, this team needs some new leadership. Nabby also needs to go, he's getting long in the tooth and had a very un-nabby like season and postseason.

Time to go younger.

[shdaow]

The Minnesota Wild (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/teams/min) have started their search for a new general manager and have targeted former Leafs Pat Quinn and John Ferguson, as well as Pierre McGuire according to a Toronto newspaper report.

Pierre McGuire and John Ferguson?? Seriously? I guess the Wild's standards are that of a recently dumped insane ex-girlfriend.

[johnnychacski]

Pierre McGuire and John Ferguson?? Seriously? I guess the Wild's standards are that of a recently dumped insane ex-girlfriend.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA Good Luck with Pierre McGuire.

[Yammer]

if they hie Pierre, we won't have to listen to him anymore

[Yammer]

Also... kinda surprised this hasn't been mentioned

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=277664

[johnnychacski]

if they hie Pierre, we won't have to listen to him anymore

Very, very true...

[ADD]

Finally! The Blackahws cost someone else their job

Mike Keenan has been fired as head coach of the Calgary Flames, sources tell ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun.

[wacker]

Calgary goes into every season with unrealistic goals (they aren't that great) and I don't know why they thought Jokinen would help. Its hard to coach when your GM and ownership thinks they have a cup contender.

That being said Keenan is a pretty big prick.

[Hoser]

Bettman and the NHL are beyond gay and retarded for fighting the move this hard. Douchebag refuses to acknowledge that a team would do better here.

[ADD]

Fuck Hamilton

[Hoser]

I hate the Hammer as much as the next guy, but a team would do much better there then in Glendale.

[ADD]

Fuck Canada

[wacker]

I just wonder what network the Hamilton team would have their games on. I assume Sportsnet would take them but what region are they in and what happens when they play games the same night as the Leafs do?

[Hoser]

No need to be bitter. It isn't our fault we have more hockey fans. But hey, you guys get baseball, thats something, right??


It would be split between TSN, Sportsnet and CBC. Maybe even CTV.

When they play the same night as the Leafs people will have to learn to use Picture-in-Picture or their PVR.

[ADD]

So many supporting hockey fans that you've lost how many franchises in the last 20 years?

[Hodge]

2?
And they weren't even near the GTA. Hell, Toronto has a larger population than the whole province of Manitoba.
I'm not sure why Nordiques went south. Frenchies are pretty rabid fans. Competing with the legacy of the Canadiens probably was their downfall.

Personally I think it's gonna be tough to expect a fan base so close to Toronto though. Toronto fans ARE die hard fans. They go to the games even when they know their team sucks balls. I think expecting them to switch is kind of retarded.
This would spawn one hell of a rivalry though.

I think Regina should get the team. Saskatchewan has two major cities to help support the team and Regina is central to both Saskatoon and Winnipeg. Nevermind that a decent rivalry with Edmonton/Calgary/Vancouver wouldn't take to long to occur.

Winnipeg is just too way the fuck out there.

[ruffdog]

Pat Quinn new head coach of oilers

TSN

[Hoser]

FORMER NHLER ZEZEL PASSES AWAY AT AGE 44

Former NHL player Peter Zezel passed away at a Toronto hospital on Tuesday at the age of 44, after a long battle with a blood disorder.

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

His family released the following statement:

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

The Toronto native played 15 seasons in the National Hockey League with the Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues, Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils and Vancouver Canucks..
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=280002

I use to watch him play at ice sports. he was a monster on the ice there. He was a great leaf too.

[ADD]

Habs go with Martin behind bench

MONTREAL -- Jacques Martin was ready to go. After all, the Montreal Canadiens (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/clubhouse?team=mon) were calling. He was hired as the Canadiens' coach Monday, leaving his job as Florida Panthers (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/clubhouse?team=fla) general manager for a storied NHL franchise that was swept in the first round of the playoffs. Martin, introduced at Bell Centre news conference, said his fourth NHL coaching job was a "tremendous opportunity." "When you look at the players who are in the organization, there is a strong nucleus, a strong base, to build a winning team and I'm really looking forward with excitement to leading this team next year." The 56-year-old Martin replaces Montreal GM Bob Gainey behind the bench. Gainey took over after firing Guy Carbonneau (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=138) on March 9. This is the first time the Canadiens have hired a coach with previous NHL coaching experience since Jacques Demers was fired four games into the 1995-96 season. "It was a priority for me that we find a head coach that had seen a lot of situations," Gainey said. "We love Montreal as a marketplace, if that's the right word, but it comes with the demands and expectations and pressures. And I think Jacques has already proven that's well within his capacity to handle not only the coaching but the environment in Montreal." Martin has been the Panthers' GM the past three seasons and coached the team from 2004 to 2008. He also coached St. Louis and Ottawa and was coach of the year in 1999 with the Senators. He has a career record of 517-406-119 for a .551 winning percentage. Martin praised the Detroit Red Wings (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/clubhouse?team=det) as an example of the two-way style of play he espouses. "When I started with Ottawa I was categorized as a defensive coach and when I left, the last five years in Ottawa we had one of the highest-scoring teams," Martin said. "I really believe when you have the puck, you're on offense, and when you don't have the puck, you're on defense." Martin also grew up in Canada, a fact the Panthers found hard to ignore when Montreal asked to speak with him about 10 days ago. "I'm sure it's almost every young kid's dream to coach the Canadiens or play for the Canadiens," Panthers president Michael Yormark said. "Clearly Jacques was interested." Martin's deal with Florida runs through the 2011-12 season. Yormark said NHL rules stipulate the Canadiens do not have to compensate the Panthers. "Is it the ideal situation? No," Yormark said. "But there was a window of opportunity whereby the Canadiens needed to act on their head coaching position. We felt this is something that we had to let Jacques pursue." Montreal is the second team to hire a coach in less than a week, following Pat Quinn at Edmonton. Carbonneau's dismissal was part of a season that began with Stanley Cup hopes but ended with a first-round playoff ouster by Boston. Montreal had a strong first half, but its season unraveled amid injuries and the coaching change. Tomas Plekanec (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=1933) and Chris Higgins were among several Canadiens to struggle this season, along with brothers Andrei and Sergei Kostitsyn (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=3686), defenseman Ryan O'Byrne (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=3475) and goaltender Carey Price (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=3231). Finding a new coach was one of Gainey's main offseason tasks. The other will be to decide on 10 unrestricted and four restricted free agents. Those free to go on the open market are Alex Kovalev, captain Saku Koivu (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=465), winger Alex Tanguay (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=927), center Robert Lang (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=505), checking forward Tom Kostopoulos (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=1355) and defensemen Mike Komisarek (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=1513), Francis Bouillon (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=93), Mathieu Dandenault (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=193), Patrice Brisebois (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=106) and Mathieu Schneider (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=831). "Just putting the head coach in place now allows me to go and speak more clearly to some of the players who are under contract to us, who we still have a month to address and see if we can sign them," Gainey said. Cohen thanked Martin and said a search for a new GM will begin immediately. Martin became the Panthers' GM in 2006. He was stripped of his coaching duties in April 2008, but had a hand in selecting successor Pete DeBoer. "I got a guy that on a day-to-day basis really supported me and gave me room to make my own decisions but also had some great advice at key times for me," DeBoer said. "I can tell you that you don't just stop coaching after 20, 25 years of coaching and it leaves your blood. I think it's always going to be in your blood." But, DeBoer also said he had no indication that Martin wanted to return to the bench. "I'm not sure I saw it coming," DeBoer said. "I think he really threw himself into the GM role." Bill Torrey, Florida's first team president, will lead the Panthers' GM search. Torrey helped build the 1995-96 Panthers team that reached the Stanley Cup finals. He spent 20 years with the Islanders, helping form the team that won four Stanley Cups (1980-83). He and Florida assistant GM Randy Sexton will work together until a replacement is selected. Torrey was vague when asked what he sought in the next GM. "It's not just one type or one person," he said. "It's the best all-around individual -- the one that brings the most to the table -- that we're going to bring here as quickly as we can."

[Das Kahlua]

Good move.

[Pete t]

hahaha martin? are you serious

[ADD]

Colorado gets out the axe too

DENVER -- The Colorado Avalanche (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/clubhouse?team=col) fired coach Tony Granato on Wednesday in a sweeping move that also resulted in the firings of five others in the organization and the naming of Greg Sherman as general manager.

The Avalanche also fired assistant coaches Jacques Cloutier and Dave Barr, goaltending coach Jeff Hackett, assistant to the general manager Michel Goulet and video coordinator P.J. DeLuca.

Sherman had been Colorado's assistant GM for the past seven seasons.

Also promoted within the organization were Craig Billington as assistant GM and David Oliver as director of player development, succeeding Billington.

It was the second set of major offseason moves made by the team after their worst finish since moving to Colorado from Quebec in 1995.

Colorado also let go of general manager Francois Giguere in April. Granato's job appeared to be in jeopardy when the team courted Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy to be their coach. Roy turned them down.

The Avalanche were hurt by injuries and went long stretches without captain Joe Sakic (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=812), offensive threat Paul Stastny (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=3467) and top defenseman Adam Foote (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/players/profile?playerId=282).

Granato was in his second stint as the Avs' coach, having led the team to the playoffs in 2002-03 and 2003-04. His overall record is 104-78 with 17 ties and 5 overtime losses.

[ruffdog]

CLEAN HOUSE

[ADD]

I like the Avs (and did when they were the Nordiques because when I was little I thought the name was hilarious) and they've been painful to watch the last couple of seasons between the sucking, the injuries and Forsberg not knowing what to do. It's gonna be a while before they're good again.

[Hoser]

New group unveils vision to launch second NHL franchise in Toronto

TORONTO — The queue to add a third NHL team in Ontario got a little more crowded Friday.
A new group has come forward with a proposal to launch a second NHL franchise in Toronto. They have a name - the Toronto Legacy - and even a sweater and logo.
What they don't have apparently is any official support from the league, which said Thursday it knew nothing about so-called Toronto Legacy Group.
There was no immediate response from the NHL following Friday's announcement.
The NHL, which currently has its hands full with BlackBerry boss Jim Balsillie's bid to buy the Phoenix Coyotes and move them to Hamilton, has said it has no current plans to move a franchise or expand.
That didn't stop Andrew Lopez, a communications specialist who has worked as a motivational speaker for Miss Universe Canada, from laying out a vision for a second Toronto team, suggesting that C$1 billion in private financing is already in place for the proposed expansion team.
The team would be known as the Toronto Legacy, and would play out of a proposed 30,000-seat arena built at Downsview Park, located in the north of the Greater Toronto Area. Lopez said the site would include a community athletic centre, 50-metre swimming pool, four outdoor rinks and public park space among other amenities.
"We're not sure how (the NHL) or the Toronto Maple Leafs will take this," said Lopez. "So we said, 'Let's just share with our city, share with our country, and once they've had a chance to look over what we're proposing . . . by all means, if they consider us worthy, we would be privileged.'
"We're not here to force our will on anyone. A simple no from the National Hockey League would be OK. We realize it's a very special club."
The expansion effort is the latest attempt to bring another NHL team to the southern Ontario region. Aside from Balsillie, a Vaughan, Ont.-based group - led by former Maple Leafs forward Kevin Maguire - has also expressed interest in landing an NHL franchise.
Lopez said the project will only move forward if the NHL gives him the green light.
"If the National Hockey League comes up to us and says 'You know what, we're going to look at this in five years, 10 years,' . . . . that's fine. There is no timeline on this.
"If the NHL says no, then this dream will stop."
It remains a pipe dream for the time being.
Lopez, who says his group could have the team up and running by the 2012-13 season, believes the proximity of the second franchise to the Toronto Maple Leafs would foster a new and exciting NHL rivalry without pulling fans away from the Air Canada Centre.
"We're not here to compete with the Toronto Maple Leafs," Lopez said. "We're here to be their little brother."
The announcement attracted the attention of nearly every major media outlet in Toronto. A dozen TV cameras jostled for position in the back of the room, and reporters filled every available seat.
Lopez's group proposes that 25 per cent of its annual net profits will be divided amongst charitable foundations and non-profit organizations. The Future Aces Foundation, started by former hockey player Herb Carnegie, would be the first organization to receive funding.
Carnegie, who will turn 90 in November, attended Friday's news conference.
If successful, the group says it will hand over every dollar of seat licence fees to foundations and charities.
Lopez added that roughly half the tickets to every game would be available for $50 in an effort to make the sport more affordable for fans - yet another reason for the incumbent Maple Leafs to object.
In an affidavit filed as part of the Coyotes' bankruptcy case, commissioner Gary Bettman said the only way another team would end up in southern Ontario is through expansion. He has also said the league isn't looking to add teams any time soon.
Lopez says his group is not affiliated with Balsillie or Maguire, and added that he isn't interested in inheriting an existing team.
"This has always been about expansion, not relocation," said Lopez. "I commend anyone in the world that loves hockey and is trying to bring hockey to any city. But this is strictly about expansion . . . nothing to do with the former Winnipeg Jets or the Phoenix Coyotes franchise."

Horrible name, but a great idea.

Seriously stop fighting it, just give us a team.

[wacker]

This is the worst idea of a lot of stupid ideas to put another team in in TO.

[Hoser]

The idea is good, the name and jersey are horrible.

Toronto needs a team that has cheaper prices, a bigger arena and not right downtown.

[wacker]

It doesn't sound professional at all. They are the 'little brother' of the leafs? WTF, you can't come in to a league saying another team is older and better then you. And this charity stuff? How is that a reason to start a franchise?

The team doesn't sound like it wants to be comptetive, just a make-a-wish foundation team.

[Hoser]

I agree with the little brother thing, that is gay. But I do respect the charity thing, as long as the team does no suffer. Personally I would rather see the Coyotes come here, but I dont think it will happen.

[Hannibal Lecter]

Atlanta resigns Reasoner (http://thrashers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=425054) for two years. That's one piece we wanted.

Sutter leaving (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=425123) the Devils. I guess he couldn't live without Holik.

Hearings in Phoenix. Bettman (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=425130) is there.



Why the hell isn't Ruffy doing this shit?

[wacker]

Heatly reportedly wants out of Ottawa.

[ADD]

Who doesn't?

[wacker]

The Conservative Party, lol

[Hannibal Lecter]

Heatly reportedly wants out of Ottawa.
I'd love to have him back here. I know it'll never happen, but still...

[Pete t]

FUCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK the best scorer Ottawa has ever fucking had. they better get someone huge for heatley, hes one of the best forwards in the game IMO and stats dont lie. vinny for heatley LOL i wish.

[VoxAngelikus]

Why is it that Devils fans honestly think if Sutter goes to Calgary that somehow we'd be able to get Dion Phaneuf as compensation. Is it just like, I don't know... sarcastic wishful thinking? Or are people seriously so stupid that they think that would actually happen?

And please... Jacques Lemaire back behind the Devils bench? Get the fuck outta here. How about bring in Peter Laviolette? Or Bob Hartley? Or even Marc Fucking Crawford?

My vote is for Scott Stevens to somehow get involved with the defense and teach them what it means to clear the fucking front of the net.

[ruffdog]

Jacques Lamaire fits the Devils system perfectly

[ruffdog]

Atlanta resigns Reasoner (http://thrashers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=425054) for two years. That's one piece we wanted.

Sutter leaving (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=425123) the Devils. I guess he couldn't live without Holik.

Hearings in Phoenix. Bettman (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=425130) is there.



Why the hell isn't Ruffy doing this shit?

aww look at Atlanta signing players like a big NHL club...so cute

[Hannibal Lecter]

To think I was going to lobby to get your name changed back.

[ruffdog]

name change expires today

[Pollo]

so what is Ottawa looking for Heatley? I've heard Corey Perry's name thrown around in a deal for Heatley. best potential trade partners for Ottawa?

[ruffdog]

best potential teams are any team that has cap space to take him on.
I see him being dealt at the nhl draft, with some picks going back and forth.

[Rover]

If Hossa leaves and Hudler leaves...

[ADD]

name change expires today

You will always be known as Canucklehead Fart Face

[bmw]

i hope cammalleri is toronto bound

[shdaow]

For Heatley, it seems like Boston could have some pieces which Ottawa may want. I'm mainly focusing on Manny Fernandez for goaltending, plus one of Kessel, Wheeler or Bergeron... though I'm not sure how keen Beantown would be on giving up the first two.

Pittsburgh will have the cap room once guys like Satan leave as UFAs, but aside from Jordan Staal and Letang, I don't see who they can deal (I don't see them dealing either one...)

He could always be traded back to Atlanta....

[Pollo]

I wonder if Boston will come back and knock on the Ducks' door about Pronger. they certainly could of used Pronger alongside Chara in their playoff run. I'd hate to lose Pronger, but I gotta imagine Murray will be looking to see what he can get on draft night for him. now if Scotty calls it quits, then losing Pronger is too big.

[Hannibal Lecter]

For Heatley, it seems like Boston could have some pieces which Ottawa may want. I'm mainly focusing on Manny Fernandez for goaltending, plus one of Kessel, Wheeler or Bergeron... though I'm not sure how keen Beantown would be on giving up the first two.

Pittsburgh will have the cap room once guys like Satan leave as UFAs, but aside from Jordan Staal and Letang, I don't see who they can deal (I don't see them dealing either one...)

He could always be traded back to Atlanta....
Don't tease me.

Seriously, what do you think of the possibility of tomorrow night's loser making a move for him?

[ruffdog]

Stars announced Marc Crawford is their new coach

[ruffdog]

seems Sedins want 40M over 5 years each.

Fuck that

i'll ship them on a boat to sweden myself.

[Hannibal Lecter]

It's about time you got back to work.


Do they want to be packaged?

[ruffdog]

yes, both want to play together.

guess Burkie will be on the hunt come July 1st

[Hannibal Lecter]

Well if they go to Toronto, I hope the Leafs don't go to the AHL...lulz.

[wacker]

For Heatley, it seems like Boston could have some pieces which Ottawa may want. I'm mainly focusing on Manny Fernandez for goaltending, plus one of Kessel, Wheeler or Bergeron... though I'm not sure how keen Beantown would be on giving up the first two.

Pittsburgh will have the cap room once guys like Satan leave as UFAs, but aside from Jordan Staal and Letang, I don't see who they can deal (I don't see them dealing either one...)

He could always be traded back to Atlanta....

I think Heatley wants to go out west. Calgary or a California team maybe???

[Hannibal Lecter]

I wonder how GTSCH would like having Dany on the Sharks.

[wacker]

He would have to make sure he looks both ways before crossing the street for starters.

[Hannibal Lecter]

lulz...


No pedestrians were harmed.

[Pollo]

I think Heatley wants to go out west. Calgary or a California team maybe???

I can see the Ducks possibly making a move for him ... we need some more scoring on this team. granted more secondary scoring past the 1st line, but anything to improve our offense. Ottawa could take Giggy of our hands since they need a goaltender, and we can give them some defensive prospects since they badly need it. now if Murray asks for either Getzlaf or Ryan in return, fuck that.

[ruffdog]

most likely Heatley goes to LA, they're packed with d prospects.

[bmw]

heatleys ferrari would blend in well in la

[Hannibal Lecter]

heatleys ferrari would blend in well in la
Lots of wrecked sports cars out there?

[wacker]

I can see the Ducks possibly making a move for him ... we need some more scoring on this team. granted more secondary scoring past the 1st line, but anything to improve our offense. Ottawa could take Giggy of our hands since they need a goaltender, and we can give them some defensive prospects since they badly need it. now if Murray asks for either Getzlaf or Ryan in return, fuck that.

Ottawa doesn't need a goalie anymore. They got Pascal Leclair from Columbus last season.

[Pete t]

hahaha i love how leafs fans on the tsn boards are thinking he will go there lmao. ottawa would never trade within their division let alone the leafs. plus who does toronto have to offer? some idiot said kaberle and 1st round pick. ok there bud. we better get some good player(s) in return.

btw, if hamilton does have a team what the fuck happens to all the divisions? which teams get moved around? toronto in the west again :D

[Hoser]

btw, if hamilton does have a team what the fuck happens to all the divisions? which teams get moved around? toronto in the west again :D

If that happened your team would have a chance to win a playoff series.

[wacker]

http://my.thescore.com/nhlrumours/archive/2009/06/12/ducks-trade-pronger-to-la-kings-for-d-jack-johnson-5th-pick.aspx

Being denied right now (I think they aren't allowed to make trades before season over) but it makes sense. Anaheim dumps payroll and gets younger, Kings get big name and a good veteran for a good blueline.

[Le Goat]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!

[Pete t]

If that happened your team would have a chance to win a playoff series.
or the leafs would make the playoffs? when was the last time the leafs made it to the cup?

[Hodge]

Fuck Heatley. I hope that guy plays in Europe next year for pennies.
The guy owns a house in Kelowna and all I hear from people that have met him is what a douche-bag he is. Two stories in particular include pissing on (yes, ON) one of the bars at a local joint and being a real fucking prick at a restaurant a buddy of mine used to manage.

That guy needs to trade some of his half-assed talent for a personality.

[Pete t]

makes me respect spezza more, the coach, gm, city, media and team were all shitting on him yet he improved and took it all in stride not saying a word and hes gotten much better responsibly under clouston.

[Hodge]

I think with Spezza and Alfreddson on your line there's the potential for a lot of guys to be good. Kessel would fucking slay on that line if he could stay healthy.

[Pollo]

http://my.thescore.com/nhlrumours/archive/2009/06/12/ducks-trade-pronger-to-la-kings-for-d-jack-johnson-5th-pick.aspx

Being denied right now (I think they aren't allowed to make trades before season over) but it makes sense. Anaheim dumps payroll and gets younger, Kings get big name and a good veteran for a good blueline.

I read this earlier and was going to post it, but it's a trade I would do in a second if I was the Ducks. if this rumor is true, Anaheim makes out like bandits (getting essentially two top 5 picks) for 1 year of Pronger. I've read there's a potential holdup in this deal because (1) the Kings don't want to give up the #5 pick and (2) since the pick isn't involved (supposedly), the Ducks want Frolov back in the deal. another holdup could be that LA wants Pronger to sign an extension since they're giving up two good assets.

I'm really hoping if this trade happens we get that #5 overall pick. perhaps package the pick plus our #15 pick and move up. regardless, I like the package despite hating to play Pronger 6 times a year.

[Hoser]

or the leafs would make the playoffs? when was the last time the leafs made it to the cup?


I forgot that Sens were cup contenders every year.

[Hoser]

makes me respect spezza more, the coach, gm, city, media and team were all shitting on him yet he improved and took it all in stride not saying a word and hes gotten much better responsibly under clouston.

Spezza as a persoon is a douche among douches. I met him a few time drank with him a few times and all I can say is fuck that faggot.

[Pollo]

the more I think about the Pronger to LA rumors, I gotta believe there's something missing ... or maybe I'm brainstorming too much on this. if the Kings are skeptical to trade both Johnson and the #5 pick, maybe there's a 3rd team to help make them consider moving both assets. something that could work is:

LA gets Heatley, #9 pick
Ottawa gets Frolov, Pronger
Anaheim gets Johnson, #5 pick

I think that deal works for all parties. LA gets the star player plus gets a quality pick, Ottawa improves their defense with Pronger, and the Ducks get some cap room in addition to two good assets.

I'm not sure how soon teams can announce trades on the brink of the playoffs being over, but if this isn't announced by Monday, it's probably bogus. regardless, it seems to me Pronger isn't going to be with the Ducks next year (indicating Scotty is probably going to re-sign).

[Pete t]

I forgot that Sens were cup contenders every year.
touche

[ruffdog]

the more I think about the Pronger to LA rumors, I gotta believe there's something missing ... or maybe I'm brainstorming too much on this. if the Kings are skeptical to trade both Johnson and the #5 pick, maybe there's a 3rd team to help make them consider moving both assets. something that could work is:

LA gets Heatley, #9 pick
Ottawa gets Frolov, Pronger
Anaheim gets Johnson, #5 pick

I think that deal works for all parties. LA gets the star player plus gets a quality pick, Ottawa improves their defense with Pronger, and the Ducks get some cap room in addition to two good assets.

I'm not sure how soon teams can announce trades on the brink of the playoffs being over, but if this isn't announced by Monday, it's probably bogus. regardless, it seems to me Pronger isn't going to be with the Ducks next year (indicating Scotty is probably going to re-sign).

no fucking way LA moves frolov

[bmw]

no fucking way edmonton moves gretzky...

[Pollo]

apparently the Ducks really want Frolov in the deal if the Kings don't want to part with the 5th overall pick.

so if you're the Kings, it's either the 5th overall or Frolov or no deal. that 3-way was simply an idea, but if the Kings want an impact player in return (be it Pronger or Heatley), they need to give up some quality.

[ruffdog]

if they're gonna give up something its gonna be a defenceman.
they're loaded with d prospects.

[Pollo]

which makes all the sense in the world that Jack Johnson is in the center of this supposed trade rumor. The Score was the first site to report this rumor, and from other hockey sites I read, Steve Ludzik (the one who reported this) went on radio earlier and still stood by the story despite denials from Lombardi and Murray and others.

if it's true or not, something has to be brewing with either LA or Anaheim. maybe it's a ploy from the Ducks to try to increase Pronger's value.

[Pete t]

maybe its for the lulz, but i just want to know what we get for heatley.

[bmw]

i refuse to trust any rumors coming from the score network.

[ADD]

An NHL franchise has been sold! No, not the Coyotes or Predators, but the Habs.

Hockey's most storied franchise has been sold, pending approval from the NHL.
Sources told ESPN.com Saturday that the Molson family has agreed in principle to purchase the Montreal Canadiens (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/clubhouse?team=mon) and Bell Centre from George Gillett.


The deal still needs approval from the NHL's Board of Governors. The league needs to do due diligence on the sale and have a board vote, and a source said Saturday sale approval "will be sometime mid-summer at the earliest."


French sports network RDS reported Saturday that the sale was worth $550 million, but a source told ESPN.com that the price was in excess of that.

[Pete t]

hamilton habs sounds nice

[ruffdog]

Sands writes "Reports from an underground source are coming out tonight in New York that the New York Rangers have acquired Dany Heatley.

Rangers reportedly have dealt Rozival, Zherdev, Defensive prospect Cory Potter, a 1st and 5th Round pick in exchange for Dany Heatley.

[Hannibal Lecter]

Sands writes "Reports from an underground source are coming out tonight in New York that the New York Rangers have acquired Dany Heatley.

Rangers reportedly have dealt Rozival, Zherdev, Defensive prospect Cory Potter, a 1st and 5th Round pick in exchange for Dany Heatley.
Nothing out of NHL.com or THN. I tend to disbelieve. Doubt he goes anywhere before July 1.

[ruffdog]

Brian Lawton to address Media about Lecavlier Rumours, It's happening in 10 minutes or so.

[ruffdog]

Pavol Demitra says good friend Marian Gaborik has NOT bought house in Vancouver
Vancouver-CKNW980am

6/24/2009


Canucks forward Pavol Demitra says the rumours that pending Minnesota Wild free agent Marian Gaborik has bought a house in Vancouver are not true.

Demitra told CKNW that he knows for sure that Gaborik has not bought a house in Vancouver.

Demitra and Gaborik are best friends and talk every day and live on the same street in their native Slovakia.

Demitra tells CKNW that he would love to see Gabroik sign in Vancouver as a free agent this summer.

[ruffdog]

eklund warning

*Talking to sources today, Ohlund looks to be a pretty good bet to the LA Kings

*Jay Bo is coming down to a three horse race between Vancouver, Calgary, and Philly. It looks to be up to FLA. If the Panthers don't want to take money back and are insisting on a pick, then Philly could be out and Vancouver may actually get the inside track. Jay Bo will not be playing in Eastern Canada.

*Beauchemin may be though. The Canadiens could find themselves without there #1 and #2 soon...Beauchemin is a good bet....Toronto will be in on it as well. Especially if the Leafs ship Kaberle to Minnesota.

*Gionta. The Devils are out from all indications...The Sabres and Thrashers are in...

*Lecavalier. While things may have changed a bit from yesterday's meeting I believe it is being overblown. Basically what is not being said right now is where the answers may lay grasshopper....

*The Flyers may be dealing their #1 pick.

*Demitra came out on local radio and stated that Gaborik had NOT bought a house. Ah, my favorite..."Real Estate Rumors!"

*The Kings sent me the following video with Ron Hextall talking on Heatley

[ruffdog]

Lasse Kukkonen is not going to resign in Philadelphia this season, instead, he is going to join his Finnish teammate Kari Rämö. Kukkonen signed a 2 year deal with Avangard Omsk of the KHL.

[ruffdog]

Bolts goalie Karri Ramo has signed with the KHL's Omsk.

[ruffdog]

Brian Biggane reports Philadelphia Flyers GM Paul Holmgren has spoken to Panthers assistant GM Randy Sexton about acquiring the rights to defenseman Jay Bouwmeester, and it's believed Holmgren might be willing to swap forward Joffrey Lupul for Bouwmeester. Vancouver might also be in the running for Bouwmeester, as could the Calgary Flames if they trade Dion Phaneuf to Ottawa for Dany Heatley. Edmonton isn't believed in the mix because of "repeated failures of their hometown products" who struggled to meet heightened expectations.

[ADD]

Sands writes "Reports from an underground source are coming out tonight in New York that the New York Rangers have acquired Dany Heatley.

Rangers reportedly have dealt Rozival, Zherdev, Defensive prospect Cory Potter, a 1st and 5th Round pick in exchange for Dany Heatley.

Well thank god there's no where in NYC to buy and crash a really nice car

[ruffdog]

good one

[johnnychacski]

Oh lord please be true. We need a freaking scorer.

[ADD]

We loved Dan Snyder here. It will never get old to me.

[wacker]

This thread should be renamed NHL Offseason/Ruff's twitter feed

[ADD]

Done. Emphasis on the "Twit"

[Pollo]

Sands writes "Reports from an underground source are coming out tonight in New York that the New York Rangers have acquired Dany Heatley.

Rangers reportedly have dealt Rozival, Zherdev, Defensive prospect Cory Potter, a 1st and 5th Round pick in exchange for Dany Heatley.

this is as reliable as the Score's report of Pronger going to LA for Jack Johnson and the 5th overall pick.

I gotta imagine Ottawa is going to wait until draft night to see if any team melts under pressure and gives them more.

[Pete t]

Sands writes "Reports from an underground source are coming out tonight in New York that the New York Rangers have acquired Dany Heatley.

Rangers reportedly have dealt Rozival, Zherdev, Defensive prospect Cory Potter, a 1st and 5th Round pick in exchange for Dany Heatley.
LOL

kk. so we trade for a little above average scorer in Zherdev who got 23 last year along with Rozival who has a huge contract and hes barely worth the amount the paper cost for his contract. i dont know who the fuck cory potter is and the 1st round pick is alright i guess considering its the 19th pick.

if ottawa makes anytrades they will want cheaper players so they can hopefully sign someone in the offseason.

[ruffdog]

Canucks

Michael Grabner and 1st round pick to move up in draft to pick Ryan Ellis, Team 1040

fuck some teams ovaaaaaaa

[ruffdog]

Trade discussions are heating up in Montreal.

The Florida Panthers are closing in on dealing star defenceman Jay Bouwmeester's negotiating rights.

Five teams remain in the mix with the asking price just to talk to Bouwmeester, according to source, believed to be a third round draft pick.

Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks are in discussions with a couple of teams, with Sharks forward Ryan Clowe the centre of trade talks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown interest, but aren't willing to part with their first round pick to close the deal, while the Philadelphia Flyers have also shown interest. However, San Jose is believed to have asked for either Claude Giroux, or Scott Hartnell...a price the Flyers aren't willing to pay.


EDIT: BAHAHAHHAA

[ruffdog]

The B’s brain trust will also be dealing with real big club issues like the ongoing negotiations with restricted free agent goal-scoring winger Phil Kessel. Both Chiarelli and Kessel’s agent, Wade Arnott, are expected to be in Montreal on Wednesday, and plan to continue discussions on the 21-year-old superstar’s future in Boston.

The B’s made a qualifying offer to Kessel this week — a perfunctory move by Chiarelli to keep Kessel a restricted free agent (RFA) if the July 1 free agency period comes and goes without any movement on a contract. An RFA must receive a “qualifying offer” from his team, or he becomes unrestricted, and the qualifying offer will be 100 percent of last season’s salary for players making under $800,000, and 75 percent of last season’s salary for those making over $800,000.

[ruffdog]

Thrashers GM Don Waddell, a friend of Burke, told the paper he's been exchanging ideas with his Leafs counterpart, who holds the seventh pick.

"We're certainly going to look at the trade market, but we've had no serious offers," Waddell said. "We have talked to everyone. He has a better chance of getting to number 1 if he already had the [number] 4."

Waddell, who told Toronto all-sports radio station the Fan on Thursday morning that he will continue to hold talks with Burke, was referring to the Leafs' desire to trade for the top overall pick, currently owned by the New York Islanders.

Two months ago, Burke expressed great interest in trying to deal up and land consensus No. 1 pick John Tavares of the OHL's London Knights.

If the Islanders and Tampa Bay Lightning - the NHL clubs drafting first and second - keep their picks, Burke's other plan would be to trade with the Thrashers and pick Brandon Wheat Kings forward Brayden Schenn, the younger brother of Toronto blue-liner Luke Schenn, the Globe and Mail reports.

Brayden Schenn is considered a talented and hard-working centre with little weakness in his game.

The Los Angeles Kings, choosing fifth, are also reportedly interested in taking Schenn, which is why Burke might be seeking to leapfrog the California team by dealing with Atlanta.

Burke doesn't expect to make a trade prior to the draft, but will keep speaking with teams.

"I will tell you quite candidly that I haven't gotten anywhere on this," Burke told the Globe and Mail. "But I don't get discouraged easily, and in hockey terms it's still early.

"We will keep throwing some things at other teams, and we have further meetings scheduled."

Should the Leafs stay at No. 7, Burke said there are enough good prospects to choose from. "If we're not successful, we're going to pick and that's fine," Burke said. "Until they call out a couple of names, we will keep trying to get the players we want."

[ruffdog]

according to this french link : http://www.rds.ca/hockey/chroniques/277102.html

The Canucks have been warned by the NHL about tampering with Gaborik. If this is true, that means maybe there is something brewing with Gaborik. Maybe, Pavol is trying to convince him to sing here. The link doesn't give any source or say where this come from.

[ruffdog]

and why da fuck havent I changed my avatar

[ruffdog]

The bottom line here is if Toronto trades away D-man Tomas Kaberle, somebody is going to get a steal. I really don’t understand why the Leafs are looking to trade a true top 10 PP guy in the world with a $4.25 cap number?

Word is Phoenix turned down an offer from Toronto that would have sent Ed Jovanovski and the 6th overall pick to the Leafs for Kaberle. I hear Phoenix didn’t want to give up the pick.

Toronto is going to have to go out and spend $5.5-$6 million to replace the guy.

Sources close to Kaberle tell me he is only interested in playing for a team in the Eastern Conference. That would rule out a team like the Blues who continue to say they (like every other team) are looking for a puck moving D-man. What a perfect fit Kaberle would be in St. Louis at a good price. Would a phone conversation with Al MacInnis change his mind?

Most know by now Toronto does have a window between the draft and mid July when they don’t need his permission to accept a deal. Toronto D-man Pavel Kubina has a similar limited no-trade.

[ruffdog]

Canucks gm Mike Gillis may meet with the Sedin's agent JP Barry this week in Mtl. However, nothing is scheduled. Bizarre stalemate.

from Dreger

[ruffdog]

Sources tell TSN the Toronto Maple Leafs have received what the team considers to be a significant offer for defenceman Tomas Kaberle.

There are few details available, however the offer arrived unexpectedly Thursday afternoon and is believed to be from one of the teams who may have been in the hunt, trying to acquire the negotiating rights to Florida's Jay Bouwmeester.

Toronto had originally intended on holding on to Kaberle until after the July 1 free agent frenzy in hope of attracting a better package from a team that wasn't able to land a free agent defenceman.

Sources say the Leafs are seriously considering the offer while waiting to see what other interest materializes in the coming hours.

[ruffdog]

Dreger on TSN's video clip: Draft Center: Trade Talk

Leafs and Canucks want #2 overall if the Islander take Hedman

Schenn, Kaberle, picks for Toronto
Bieksa, Schneider, 1st rounder were the specifics brought up by Dreger

[Hoser]

Whoever says the Leafs will dump Kaberle and Schenn has no clue what they are talking about. Scheenn isn't going anywhere.

[ADD]

and why da fuck havent I changed my avatar

Because you know it's awesome and true

[ruffdog]

According to Colorado followers, it seems Brian Burke had yet another offer rejected. The offer was an attempt to move up in the draft and get Avs 3rd pick overall.

As understood, the offer would see Ryan Smith, Adan Foote and the 3rd pick overall going to Toronto for Vesa Toskola, Niklas Hagman, 1 of Ian White or Anton Stralman and 7th pick overall in the draft.

Note: There are conflicting reports connected to this deal that say the deal fell apart when Colorado asked for a conditional 1st round pick next year, contingent on Toskola playing more than 30 games in the 2009/10 season."

[ruffdog]

FUCK YES

Luongo Extension Done, Announcement July 1st, Team 1040

[ADD]

Let us know when Vancouver ever wins the Cup

[elementbr10]

according to this french link : http://www.rds.ca/hockey/chroniques/277102.html

The Canucks have been warned by the NHL about tampering with Gaborik. If this is true, that means maybe there is something brewing with Gaborik. Maybe, Pavol is trying to convince him to sing here. The link doesn't give any source or say where this come from.

I know it's just a spelling error, but this seems plausible. Less chance of him pulling his groin while singing, unless he decides to dance while he does it.

[ruffdog]

Gaborik will be a point per game player for the Canucks

5GP 2G 3A 5P

[ninja33]

Alright, I'm a pretty casual follower of the NHL. I love hockey, but I never had a team because there wasnt one in Wisconsin. I liked the northstars when I was younger, and for a little while after they moved to dallas, but never really stuck with it. Next year I knew I'd be moving to a new city for school, probably one with a hockey team...so I decided starting next year I'd become a big NHL fan, as I'd have a team to cheer for and slightly more coverage of it. Unfortunately (I think), that city is Atlanta. I know little about the thrashers, I know they've been around for a decade and never won a playoff game. I know Kovalchuk is a pretty sweet player, and he probably wont be in atlanta after next year. Thats about it, someone educate me about this shitty team I've inherited.

[The Dude]

you won't have any problem getting tickets...right now you can get lower level season tickets for $999

[ruffdog]

Apparently one of the reasons why the Blackhawks and Martin Havlat (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Martin_Havlat) haven't yet agreed on a new contract is the length of the deal.
According to a source, the Hawks' initial offer to Havlat was for a one-year contract. It's not known if the team has moved off that negotiating position.

[ruffdog]

The Boston Bruins are in pursuit of Tomas Kaberle and a top 10 pick in today's draft.

Sources tell TSN the Bruins have offered restricted free agent forward Phil Kessel to Toronto in exchange for Leaf defenceman Kaberle and Toronto's No. 7 pick in today's draft.

The Leafs are apparently canvassing the league to see if there are any better offers out there.

Details to follow.

[ruffdog]

According to TSN Luongo wants a long term (5years) contract to a MINIMUM 8M$ per season.

[ruffdog]

Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brian Burke was interviewed on Michael Lansberg's Off the Record feature "Up Front". Lansberg asked whether or not Burke himself has an idea of what the New York Islanders are planning to do with the #1 overall pick, and Brian Burke openly suggested that he believes Garth Snow is going to make his selection in Montréal on Friday pending a team throwing 10 first round picks at him. Otherwise, the Islanders are believed to be prepared to draft a forward, and if he saids between John Tavares and Matt Duchene, it would be Matt Duchene. Unlike what he thought earlier thinking of Victor Hedman. Apparently, Matt Duchene is going #1 overall in 2009 Draft Class.

[source: TSN OTR-Up Front, TSN.ca]

[ruffdog]

Barring a sudden development, it appears Calgary Flames (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/teams/cgy) forward Mike Cammalleri will not sign a new contract with the club and will put his services on the open market when the free agent signing period begins July 1.

Cammalleri's agent, Ian Pulver told Sportsnet Thursday, talks between Calgary and his client have grinded to a halt leading into the NHL draft this weekend in Montreal.

"There doesn't seem to be a strong indication there's a deal to be made prior to July 1," said Pulver. "Mike's prepared to start a new chapter in his career."

Amongst potential unrestricted free agents, Cammalleri scored the most goals (39) and tied with the Sedin twins for most points with 82 this past season.

Cammalleri just turned 27, making him one the youngest unrestricted free agents in this year's class.

Since the end of the lockout, Cammalleri has scored 60 power play goals, placing him 6th in the NHL during that time behind only Alexander Ovechkin (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Alexander_Ovechkin), Ilya Kovalchuk (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Ilya_Kovalchuk), Dany Heatley (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Dany_Heatley), Teemu Selanne (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Teemu_Selanne) and Thomas Vanek (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Thomas_Vanek).

[ninja33]

you won't have any problem getting tickets...right now you can get lower level season tickets for $999

Thats a pretty good deal. I feel like if I bought season tickets for the Thrashers it would be like when my family had them for the Brewers when Miller Park opened. It was cool for a while, but the team sucked ass and every game became a chore to go to. Plus I have no money (moving for school, not a job), so that doesn't help. But its good to know I should be able to find my way in for pretty cheap.

[ruffdog]

Our old pal Craig Custance twittered …or is it twitted…or twittled…anyway, he informed us by way of "twitter" yesterday that the "Thrashers have made qualifying offers to at least three potential restricted free agents - Kari Lehtonen (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Kari_Lehtonen), Jim Slater (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Jim_Slater) and Colby Armstrong (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Colby_Armstrong)."
This now leaves Jordan Lavallee, Scott Lehman, Grant Lewis, Chris Thorburn (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Chris_Thorburn), Dan Turple and Boris Valabik (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/players/Boris_Valabik) as impending RFAs that the team will need to extend offers to.

[The Dude]

it's tweeted

[ruffdog]

or twatted

[ruffdog]

The Anaheim Ducks remain in a holding pattern waiting for Scott Niedermayer (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=scott+niedermayer) to determine his playing status for next season.

As of Friday morning, Niedermayer remained undecided and sources say he is having an extremely difficult time making a decision that he said he would make prior to the draft, weeks ago.

Ducks general manager Bob Murray met with Niedermayer's agent, Kevin Epp on Thursday night and spoke directly to his veteran defenceman, but wasn't given an answer.

That answer is expected at some point today.

Sources say Hockey Canada president Bob Nicholson also spoke with Niedermayer on Thursday and encouraged him to play next season and told him Canada considers him a key leader on the 2010 Canadian Olympic team.

If Niedermayer elects to play, there are no guarantees he will re-sign in Anaheim.

The Ducks should be considered the frontrunner, although San Jose, Vancouver and Calgary are also believed to have strong interest.

Meanwhile, a number of NHL teams continue to talk to Anaheim about possibly trading for defenceman Chris Pronger (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/?name=chris+pronger), who would be expendable if Niedermayer is returning.

But even if Niedermayer doesn't provide the Ducks with a firm answer today, it's still possible Pronger could be moved if Anaheim gets the right offer. There is reportedly no shortage of interest in the big defenceman.

[wacker]

Niedermayer is being a dick. Its ridiculously unfair to your team to not have a decision for them when their actions on one of the most important days of the year is depending on your decision.

[ruffdog]

Vancouver has broken off talks with The Twins, From Sportsnet TV and andy strickland

[Pollo]

Scotty is coming back per Dreger via Twitter (http://twitter.com/darrendreger).

now if he's coming back to Anaheim or not, who knows. regardless, I think Pronger is getting traded tonight. I think Bob Murray is working with either three teams: the Kings, Leafs or Bruins. obviously there was a Jack Johnson/5th pick rumored swap for Pronger, but I think Murray wants to move him to Toronto and try to pry the #7 overall pick and maybe Kaberle. if he can do that, maybe he tries to package the #7 and #15 picks in attempts to move up. if that's not feasible, then Boston has the best package of players to attract the Ducks (Kessel/Bergeron, Colbourne, 09' 1st rounder, fillers).

[johnnychacski]

I really REALLY am interested to see if Toronto can move up to get Tavares. I read something that if he drops to 2 the Lighting will take him and deal him. The Leafs would LOVE that.

[ruffdog]

follow the hockey updates on Twitter!

https://twitter.com/gongshowmonkey

[ruffdog]

Big news coming from Van at 4pm PST

[ruffdog]

Bolland signs 5 year/$18 million extension

[Pollo]

I really REALLY am interested to see if Toronto can move up to get Tavares. I read something that if he drops to 2 the Lighting will take him and deal him. The Leafs would LOVE that.

I just don't understand why TB is so keen on dealing the #2 pick knowing Taveras and Hedman are studs. they better get a king's ransom.

Colorado's pick interests me more -- if the Ducks can get the #7 (in a Pronger deal), maybe a package of the 7 & 15 picks (and maybe Giggy) could interest the Avs.

[johnnychacski]

Yeah I don't understand Tampa either, especially when they could than deal Vinny. Maybe the problem is they have zero takers for Vinny at this point.

[ruffdog]

I heard Pronger for Heatley rumor

[Pollo]

I'm not buying the Heatley rumor -- the Ducks want to cut salary, so if anything one of Pronger and/or Giggy is gone by tonight. now if both of them are gone, Heatley would fit our budget.

[Pollo]

Ducks/Flyers in serious talks over Pronger via Dreger. what can the Flyers offer?

[Cornflake]

I heard Pronger for Heatley rumor

If that is true Ottawa isnt really loosing out as much as they thought.. I would be happy with that if I was a Ottawa fan.

[johnnychacski]

Ducks/Flyers in serious talks over Pronger via Dreger. what can the Flyers offer?

Good question, but their in serious looks for a defensive help. They were in talks looking to get Bouwmeester from Florida before he hits the market.

[ruffdog]

Jbo goes to Vancouver

[johnnychacski]

Yep, heard that one as well.

[ruffdog]

Heatley talks dead says Murray

[ruffdog]

Pronger traded to Flyers.
details to follow

[Pollo]

man ... Murray better have gotten JVR from Philly.

[johnnychacski]

I doubt they would deal him away.

[Cornflake]

Wow there are lots of people in both Montreal and at the Islanders...

[Pollo]

anything but Lupul coming back to Anaheim, unless it's a 3-way deal or whatever.

[ruffdog]

Lupul to ducks

[ruffdog]

lulz

[ruffdog]

confirmed!

[Pollo]

what are the details?

[ruffdog]

lupul, sbisa and 2 first round draft picks to ducks

[Pollo]

can Bettman shut the fuck up and have the Islanders pick already!

[johnnychacski]

Ok not bad for the Duck.

[Cornflake]

can Bettman shut the fuck up and have the Islanders pick already!

I hate that fucker...

Scott Niedermayer has informed the Anaheim Ducks he intends to play next season.

[johnnychacski]

What a shock...now it gets interesting.

[ruffdog]

Tavares first

[ruffdog]

SHOCKINGZ

[Pollo]

TB won't be trading this pick, I just can't see it.

and I'm meh on that Philly deal. I didn't want fucking Lupul back.

[Cornflake]

He knew 5 years ago he was probably going to be a 1st overall pick... fuck

[johnnychacski]

How many people is he gonna fucking hug.

[Pollo]

I hate that fucker...

Scott Niedermayer has informed the Anaheim Ducks he intends to play next season.

I'd like to add Pierre McGuire while I'm at it for people who need to shut the fuck up.

[johnnychacski]

Tampa's gotta take Hedman.

[Pollo]

Sbisa/Lupul/2 1st rounders ... I really wanted to snatch a top 10 pick this year for Pronger, but oh well.

[ruffdog]

Hedman numba 2

[johnnychacski]

As expected. Hedman 2

[Cornflake]

What a question to ask right in front of the kid... Would you have taken him if you had first overall...

[Pollo]

mixed reactions to the Ducks trade on various Ducks boards. maybe Murray flips Lupul to some other team ... we have enough RWs as it is.

[johnnychacski]

Maybe the Ducks try to package both picks to move up.

[Pollo]

maybe the Ducks use the 15 and 21 picks to move up?

Schroeder would be excellent for us if we move up.

[johnnychacski]

Pollo I like your thinking Haha

[Cornflake]

I'd like to add Pierre McGuire while I'm at it for people who need to shut the fuck up.

If he does a "Monster Performer" for the draft I am going to puke...

[Cornflake]

So this is pretty much going as scripted. 1 2 and 3 so far

[Pollo]

does Atlanta keep the pick here? maybe Kane next?

[ruffdog]

something might happen here

4th pick might move

[johnnychacski]

There gonna try to move it.

[johnnychacski]

Well it has gone as expected.

[Pollo]

Schenn to the Kings now.

[Cornflake]

Schenn to the Kings now.

Good call

[Pollo]

Burke's facial expression right there was priceless...

[Pollo]

NYI/Columbus make a trade ... the Jackets got 4 picks in the deal if I heard it correctly.

[Cornflake]

Well it was nice of him to tell him that he was taking him... First he asks if that is who they want... Then Nah, were taking him...

[Pollo]

I think it's pretty awesome we see VS following Burke through the draft. Burke is pretty damn amusing ... fucking around with Brian Murray about swapping picks.

[Pollo]

can Pierre McGuire stop saying that every pick is a good one? we fucking get it, SERIOUSLY.

[Hoser]

2MaCFgYcNi8

Lets hope he is as good as Schenn

[Pete t]

LH4WOtbA9cA

nice pick

[wacker]

That was a pretty boring night.

[Hoser]

But our guy is from Lebanon, thats something right???

[Hannibal Lecter]

Well, the Thrashers faithful were quite happy at the draft party last night. We've grown accustomed to Donny Wad screwing things up, but truth be told, he's drafted some pretty good first rounders...
Heatley, Kovalchuk, Lehtonen, Little, Coburn, Bogosian...
Still, we tend to dwell on Patrik Stefan when there were a couple of Sedin boys sitting there, and there's no telling what kind of fucked up trade he'll try and pull.

[johnnychacski]

So Jay Bo to the Flames for Jordan Leopold and their third round pick in the draft. It'll be interesting to see if the Flames can reach a deal with Jay Bo before free agency starts.

[Pete t]

so heatley in calgary = nooooo

[wacker]

But our guy is from Lebanon, thats something right???

I'd check his hockey bad twice before I let him in my rink.....

[ruffdog]

Sather: Rangers have qualified Zherdev, not Sjostrom, Antro asking price "ridiculous"

[ruffdog]

Brodziak from Oilers to Wild for their 4th and 5th round picks

[ruffdog]

Jim Vandemeer to Phoenix for Brandon Prust

[ruffdog]

Teemu Selanne is coming back for another season with the Anaheim Ducks.

[ruffdog]

The Phoenix Coyotes acquired defenseman Sami Lepisto from the Washington Capitals for a fifth-round draft pick in 2010.

[ruffdog]

Former 1st round draft pick Brian Boyle has been dealt to the NY Rangers in exchange for the Rangers 3rd round draft pick in 2010.

[ruffdog]

Vancouver just picked with Phoenix's 7th rounder (according to NHL.com) so some sort of trade between the teams must have happened.

[ruffdog]

Habs hire Guy "Bowman Jr." Boucher as Bulldog's head coach

Pens re-sign Craig Adams for 2 years

[ruffdog]

one report over the weekend had the Stars offering Mike Ribeiro, Fabian Brunnstrom and Matt Niskanen in a package for Heatley.

[ruffdog]

30-year-old Brett McLean has also been put on waivers by the Florida Panthers

[ruffdog]

Boston has waived winger Peter Schaefer

[ruffdog]

Rumor: Cammalleri to Nashville and Briere not being traded


According to RDS, Bob Gainey tried up until minutes before the draft on friday to acquire Vincent Lecavalier from the Lightning.

Blues buyout McKee, re-sign Winchest & Weaver

Mike Gillis headed to SWEDEN!, Talks continue

Leafs offer Kaberle, Ponikarovsky, White and 1st Rounder to Kings for Brayden Schenn

[ruffdog]

Hossa talks in Detroit going nowhere, GM Ken Holland "Not optimistic"

[ruffdog]

Prized free agent goaltender Jonas Gustavsson has narrowed down his search for an NHL destination to two clubs, Stars and Leafs

[ruffdog]

RUMOR: Calgary signs Bouwmeester w/ 6.3m cap hit

[ruffdog]

twitter.com/gongshowmonkey

[ruffdog]

The Wild did not make qualifying offers to the following RFA's D Paul Albers, LW Riley Emmerson, LW Dan Fritsche, LW Peter Olvecky

Hurricanes re-sign Jussi Jokinen, 2 year deal, 1.5M first year, 1.9M 2nd year

[ruffdog]

Washington did not extend qualifying offers to four players – Andrew Joudrey, Daren Machesney, Travis Morin and Sasha Pokulok

[ruffdog]

Steve Eminger , Anthony Stewart , Drew Larman, Tanner Glass, Franklin MacDonald and David Shantz not qualified by the Panthers

The San Jose Sharks are beginning a roster makeover by declining to make qualifying offers to Marcel Goc,Tomas Plihal and Lukas Kaspar.

[ruffdog]

Hawks better watch out for a RFA offer sheet for Versteeg

[Pete t]

k anyone know any news on heatley? last thing i read in the ottawa sun is that they said for heatley to trade himself because no one wants him. murray also says if he gets the bonus that they will ask more for him in return. how come you can't trade cash considerations in NHL like you can in NBA or other pro sports?

[ADD]

Hawks better watch out for a RFA offer sheet for Versteeg

Done and done

[Pollo]

k anyone know any news on heatley? last thing i read in the ottawa sun is that they said for heatley to trade himself because no one wants him. murray also says if he gets the bonus that they will ask more for him in return. how come you can't trade cash considerations in NHL like you can in NBA or other pro sports?

from what it sounded at the draft, Murray wants king's ransom for Heatley. supposedly the Kings offered Frolov and the 5th overall pick for Heatley and Ottawa turned that down. I don't know what Murray is looking for, but if it's true he turned that down ... what a shame.

[Pete t]

i heard murray wanted brown, johnson and 5th overall pick, i was like no fucking way you have to be realistic.

[ruffdog]

Rumor: Phaneuf for Heatley after the Flames sign Jbo

[ruffdog]

Atlanta has offered Lehtonen 1year deal worth 3.5$mil. also offered new contracts to Armstrong, Slater, Valabik, Lavalle, Lehman and Lewis.

[ruffdog]

Pittsburgh Penguins Agree to Terms with Bill Guerin on One-Year Contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a qualifying offer to goaltender Justin Pogge

[ruffdog]

Sharks re-sign Rob Blake, 1 year, $3.5 Million

[ruffdog]

Belfour wants to return to the NHL

[ruffdog]

The New Jersey Devils re-signed defenseman Johnny Oduya to a multi-year contract.