Ribeiro Dealt to Dallas

According to TSN, the Dallas acquire center Mike Ribeiro and a 6th round pick for defenseman Janne Niiminaa and a 5th round pick.

Latrappe's take: That's a terrible trade for Dallas. I saw Ribeiro for years and this guy was terribly overrated. He doesn't show up every night and his defensive play is pretty bad. What ever Niiminaa will give to Montreal; they acquire a decent defenseman for, almost, nothing. I have no clue why Dallas made that deal.

Matt's take: This is a good deal for Dallas. Ribeiro was always an under achiever in Montreal, but hopefully his full potential will be shown in Dallas. This is a low risk, high reward situation for them. As for Montreal, this deal is horrible. As much as I hate Ribeiro, he has some potential to be a good player. Niiminaa was a 7th defenseman in Dallas, and won't be the savior to the blueline. Montreal panicked and traded a quality player for an ok one. But finally, we don't have to deal with Ribeiro anymore, but it would've been nice to see Chara wreck him.

Game Notes

Only 2nd intermission, but some quick game notes. The Bruins haven't played a very good game. Way to many penatlies, which is why they are down 4-1. The 5 v 5 play has been fairly even, and Lundqvist has made some spectacular saves, one of Donovan. The Bruins would be in this game if it weren't for timely penalties. The PK has been horrible, and the PP hasn't been very great. Newcomer Marc Savard has looked awesome today though, and have made some dazzling passes. He has created plays on his own, and like I told you all, surprise player of the year. He was injured on a block shot at the end of the period, and the degree of the injury is not known at the time. More to come on that one.

Game on Today!

Today has finally arrived. Today at 4, we will finally get to see our B's play! Can't wait, and I hope you all watch the game. Very excited.

Prediction:

Boston: 5
Rangers: 2

Burnside to Get Burned

Yes, this week was a tough one for the ESPN's hockey writer. I followed his column this week and things didn't get better for Scott. His ranking had no logic and you wonder, does this guy have a clue? Sometimes it was bizarre comments from nowhere; sometimes it was pure bashing. Let's take a look at 3 statements that our good friend Scott made this week.

1- The B's will finish 12th in the conference: Yes, of course. The B's will be mediocre this year and what's the reason for that mediocrity? Too many faces. Yes, after saying that the team add depth with Chara, Savard and Mara, good'ol Scott said that the team will not perform and will miss the playoffs. Funnier was the predicition of the Habs who will finish 4th with a less better team. Even, in Montreal, especially in the papers, the seniors sports writers place the B's before the Habs in the standing. You didn't have a clue Scott.

2- Lewis not good as it looks: In his B's preview, good'ol Scott said some very intriguing things about the new coach. Arguing that he' soft (yeah, we saw that Thursday when he skated the hell out of the players) and didn't find answers to make Detroit win. Ok. Let's take a look at it.

1- If i follow the same logic, Jacques Martin is a mediocre hockey guy. This guy took a pathetic Ottawa team and tranformed it into a contender. But Martin never won the big prize. Does it mean that all the work Martin did is non-existent. Look at Ottawa, this year. There's still pretty much in the ball game. I guess long term perspective didn't suit well good'ol Scott.

2- Lewis was for many years Bowman's assistant coach. Lewis had the chance, on a daily bases, to learn from the master. Learned all the little things to reach the next level and, finally, be a contender for the cup. At the end, winning a cup is about details. Execute the little simple things right and you will contend. I don't know for you guys but I won't discard a guy who comes from a winning organization like Detroit nor that I would mess with someone who had an extended teaching from Scotty. That was bizarre and poor evaluation of Lewis. Scott, a bowl of fresh air?

3- Savard hiring doubtful?: What happended here Scott? Did you get a bad service in a Beantown's restaurant? Why are you so negative about those signings. Once again, I will have to make it right for you.

- Savard was the best center avaiable this summer. Overpaid? Not a #1 centerman? Thank you to inform y we signed him. This guy will make that 2nd scorinus that Savard is a #2 centerman because that's exactly whg work and will play on the PP. Savard filled a need (#2 legitimate centerman) and, sometimes, you have to spend more to be able to fill that need. There was, at least, 5 teams who did make the same offer as the B's for Savard. Do it means that those teams are dead wrong? Of course not, they are not because they rely on people who works in hockey. Repeat Scott: 3-2-1, work in hockey. Good, now say it 100 times.

Really, this week, Burnside burned his credibility. I wish I could be the little bird on his window to see the logic behind those predictions. There's no way a serious hockey writer will make some comments as he did, not only on the B's, on teams without having fact to backup him up. I don't have the pretention to be an expert, not at all. I'm a fan who followed hockey for more then 30 years. But I have the pretention to look things for what they are. On paper, the B's have a really good team. So I will evaluate them on those statistics and see the result at then end. Montreal in 4th place. You really don't have a clue Scott; will you ever?

Those Stupid Islanders

I have decided to make a list on which quality players the Islanders have lost under Wang.

-Todd Bertuzzi
-Zdeno Chara
-Bryan Berard
-Roberto Luongo
-Olli Jokinen
-Jason Spezza (pick form)
-Roman Hamrlik
-Mark Parrish
-Chris Osgood
-Dick Tarnstrom
-Zigmund Palffy
-Bryan Smolinski
-Tim Connolly
-Oleg Kvasha
-Janne Niiminaa
-Raffi Torres
-Dave Scatchard

I know that not all could have been kept due to salary cap, and some were traded, but overall you get the picture. Because of Wang, this team has lost TONES of quality players. That list alone could compete with the best of the NHL.

Bench Analysis

The final piece of the Bruins roster analysis. The bench.

Wade Brookbank-Known mostly as a tough guy, Brookbank will provide that role for the Bruins. He is a forward conturary to those who thought he was originally a defenseman. Brookbank will split time between Providence and Boston, and will only see 4th line action. He will also be a healthy scratch many games. Brookbank is one of the only tough guys the Bruins have this season, and look for some scrappy fights from this guy.

Jeff Hoggan-One of the finalists to make the roster, Hoggan will provide more depth in case of injury. Hoggan recorded 8 points in 52 games last season with the Blues. At 28 years old, Hoggan only has 1 year of pro experience. It looks like he will likely play most the season in Providence.

Petr Kalus-A lot of news surrounding him recently with the ruling on whether he will go back to his junior team or Providence, but the ruling is that he will be allowed to play in Providence this season. Kalus is a up and coming star forward for the team, and will likely spend most if not all the season in Providence. We could see Kalus come up late in the year if necessary.

Petr Tenkrat-At 29 years old, Tenktrat is no longer a prospect. He hasn't played well the last two seasons, but many have said that he looks like a completely different player this season. In 2001-2002, he put up terrific rookie numbers of 8 goals and 16 assists, but only in 54 games. Tenkrat will definately be called up if an injury occurs to the offense.

Konowalchuk Retires

From TSN,

DENVER - Colorado Avalanche forward Steve Konowalchuk announced today that he's retiring from the game of hockey after a 13-season career in the NHL.

Konowalchuk made this decision official after undergoing an additional series of tests relating to his heart condition. This condition was detected during medical tests that all Avalanche players underwent prior to the start of training camp. Results from a standard EKG test revealed an abnormal reading.

''In Steve's case, the abnormal reading prompted further tests which revealed he has Long QT Syndrome, a genetic disease involving electrical conduction which can lead to irregular heart rhythms,'' said Dr. Steve Friedrich, Avalanche cardiologist. ''Steve and the physicians in Rochester conferred with multiple national centres in order to form a consensus regarding his condition.''

Konowalchuk agreed that it was best that he retire from the game he loves.

''After a complete evaluation from a number of different physicians and experts associated with this condition, we decided that this was the best and only alternative for me,'' said Konowalchuk. ''As much as I'll miss the game of hockey and all that it's provided for my family and I, my health was the number one priority.

''This has been a very painful process, but I'm very proud of a long NHL career and happy to have a lifetime of special memories and friends to take with me.''

Konowalchuk, 33, a native of Salt Lake City, Utah was originally drafted by the Washington Capitals in the third round, 58th overall, in the 1991 Entry Draft. He was acquired by the Avalanche from the Capitals along with the Captals' third selection in the 2004 Entry Draft in exchange for Bates Battaglia and the rights to Jonas Johansson on October 22, 2003. Over his 13 NHL seasons, he appeared in 790 NHL contests, amassing 171 goals and 225 assists. He made 52 NHL playoff appearances tallying 21 points (9g/12a).

''Steve is a true professional and will be known for playing the game as it should be played – with passion and a strong commitment to his team and his teammates,'' said Avalanche Executive Vice President and General Manager Francois Giguere. ''We will treat him with great respect, the same way he treated the organization since his arrival here in Colorado.

''Our organization will support Steve and his family any way we can,'' added Giguere.

Matt's take: Very sad to see this happen to a player. I will always remember Konowalchuk from his days with Washington player with Peter Bondra. Always a Bruin killer.

Brenden Morrow Named C

Newly resigned to a 6 year, 24.6 million dollar deal, the Dallas Stars have named Brenden Morrow the new captain of the team. He will take over duties of Mike Modano, who has been captain since 2003.

''I really believe in this organization and the commitment they've made to me and to winning,'' he said.

Morrow has 120 goals and 149 assists for 269 points and 748 penalty minutes in his career.

Matt's take: I am a little surprised that Modano isn't captain anymore, but then again, teams need to move in different directions, and it seems like this will be a better fit.

'Canes Deal Johnson

The Carolina Hurricanes have traded their top D prospect Jack Johnson to the Los Angeles Kings for D Oleg Tverdovsky, C Eric Belanger, and D Tim Gleason. Johnson was drafted 3rd overall in the 2005 draft. The trade rumors of Johnson have be heavy as of late, and the Hurricanes were having extreme diffuculty signing him.

(TSN) Tverdovsky scored three goals and had 20 assists (12 on the power play) last season. In 687 career NHL games he has 77 goals and 236 assists. He has two years and $5 million remaining on his contract.

Gleason scored two goals and assisted on 19 others last season. The Kings re-signed Gleason, who will earn $1.2 million this season, as a restricted free agent to a two-year deal this past offseason.

Belanger put up 17 goals and 20 assists with the Kings last year. In 323 career NHL games he has 63 goals and 87 assists. He will make $1.3 million this season.

Latrappe's take: I know that Carolina is banged up at the blue line but it's always dangerous to trade a prospect like Jack Johnson. I didn't see Tim Gleason play but it seemed to me that Caroline may have traded some future for an immediate relieve which is not very good. I think they could have gotten more elsewhere for Jack Johnson.

Matt's take: This was an ok deal for the 'Canes. They did add a lot of depth to their team without dealing anyone on the current roster, but they already have tones of depth. Their blueline is a little thin, but Tverdovsky isn't going to be their savior. The Hurricanes could have gotten more than what they did, and from asking for a top line F and a top-4 defenseman, they didn't quite get that. Tverdovsky is way past his prime, while Belanger is an average forward. Gleason I don't know much about, but he doesn't look like anything special either. Johnson could very well turn into a all-star defenseman for years to come, or another Lars Jonsson. But as of now, the Kings got the better of this deal.

NHL News

- The Boston Herald reports that the last cut on the team will be make Sunday or Monday. They also report that the team will likely decide, today, who will be team's captain.

- According to Spector's web site, Sweet Lou is in New York, at the NHL headquarters, to talk about the Malakhov and Mogilny situation. Spector thinks that Lamoriello might be able to write off the salary of Mogilny but that it will be very unlikely that he can do the same with Malakhov. According to Spector, the relieve of Mogilny's salary will help the Devils to retain their player and remove the possibility of a major trade.

- According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, the Nashville predators are shopping Scott Hartnell and/or Scotty Upshall. McKenzie says that the Predators are loaded in the upfront and the possibility to lose Hartnell, for nothing, in the free agent market may force a trade.

- RDS's web site report that forward Guillaume Latendresse have signed a 3 years/2.55 million dollar contract with the Habs. Head coached Guy Carbonneau already stated that Latendresse will spend the complete year in Montreal.

- ESPN's Good'ol Burnside has this comment regarding Savard: "Take Marc Savard. He is being paid as a No. 1 player in Boston, but he's not a No. 1 player five-on-five or killing penalties. Are the Bruins going to get full value for him? History suggests they will not ".

Latrappe needs to say: Shove it Burnside.
Matt add's: Actually watch an NHL game.

3rd Line Analysis

Last line to analyze. Been putting this one on the back burner as of late, but here it goes. I will also be doing the reserves analyzation.

Wayne Primeau-Acquired in the JT deal, Primeau was thought as the "thrown-in" player. Primeau did better than expected and solidified the role as the checking line center. Primeau provides size, but he also has great hockey instincts and great hands. If anyone remembers that dazzling goal against Philly, that is where he caught my eye. Primeau, on a good year, can give you 30-35 points. Around 12 goals and 25 assists. That is all you can ask from your 3rd line center. Primeau is one of the better defensive forwards the B's have, and will be used in key penalty killing situations.

Shean Donovan-Signed this year as a UFA, a 2 year/1.95 million dollar deal. Here on the East Coast, we don't really know much of Donovan, but he was a well liked guy in Calgary and scored 20 goals two years back. Talking to people who watch the Flames and are fans, have told me that he is known to go on hot streaks, but also known to go on cold streaks. Donovan is like a P.J. Axelsson, and they will provide one of the best checking lines in the NHL. Donovan could put up from 10-20 goals and 15-20 assists.

P.J. Axelsson-The longest tenured Bruin, Axelsson will be a canidate for the A this season. Axelsson year in and year out has been one of the best defensive forwards in the game. He should have been in consideration for the Selke trophy many years, including lasts. Axelsson can score, and bother the other teams defense a lot. Axelsson is the teams top PK, and we will see lots of that from him this season. Axy is a grinder and expect another solid season from him this year.

Yzerman Named VP

Fomer Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman has been named Vice President of the Detroit Red Wings. He has was captain since 1986. Wow long time back. Stevie Y scored 692 goals and had 1,755 points.

Matt's Take: This great for Yzerman, the Wings, and the fans. It is great to keep in the game and the team. Always a fan favorite. I have lots of respect for this guy.

Minor Moves Galore

Some Minor moves over the last few days I haven't bothered to post.

-The Philadelphia Flyers have waived forward Marty Murray.
-Sean Burke has cleared through waivers.
-The Sabres designated former Bruin D Jeff Jillson to assignment, he refused to go, and is now a UFA.
-The Penguins have claimed Karl Stewart off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks.
-The Edmonton Oilers have signed D Sebastian Bisallion to a 3 year entry level deal.
-The Los Angeles Kings have signed G Dan Cloutier to a 2 year contract extension worth 3.1 million a season.
-Former Penguin Ryan VandenBussche has signed a 1 month deal contract with the Jokerit Helsinki, a SM-Liiga club.

Blue Jackets Sign Zherdev

The Columbus Blue Jackets finally signed holdout F Nikolai Zherdev. They signed him to a 3 year, 7.5 million dollar deal. The deal will pay him $1.75 million for this season, $2.5 in 2007-08 and $3.25 in 2008-09.

Matt's Take: Finally we can all rest. This was a great deal by Columbus, and a fair deal for Zherdev. Look for the revamped Blue Jackets offense to be steller this upcoming season.

Around the League

Taking a look at whats been going on lately.

- Bobby Clarke is saying that shopping for a backup goaltender is not a priority. He's looking for a cheap option and might look at Sean Burke who cleared waivers recently. Sportsnet.ca report that Clarke might take a look at San Jose's Toskala as well.

Latrappe's take: I might take some heat here but Clarke is a stubborn idiot. For a decade or so, his club didn't manage to go deep in the playoffs because of a lack of solid goaltending. I cannot believe that Clark didn't make an offseason effort to get that #1 goaltender. Esche and, maybe, Burke are not the solution. Keep an eye on Clarke this year since the owner Snider put a lot of pressure on the front office to get it done. It could be Clarke's last year.

-The Montreal Gazette reports that the Habs might look for help at their blue line. Bouillon will be on the shelf for 2 months and Sheldon Souray just hurt his shoulder. What ever who will come to help the Habs, there's no quality D-man on the market. But don't worry since Scott Burnside said thay they will finish 4th anyway. Matt needs to note...Scott Burnside should shove it.

Latrappe's take: The Habs never had a great defensive squad and they were saved; night in , night out by their goaltending. That's why lots of hockey writers overrate their defense. Whatever the help they will get, the loss of Bouillon will be costly since Montreal has no depth at all, at the blue line.

Kalus in Providence?

According to the Herald, Peter Chiarelli would like to see Peter Kalus in Providence this year. The problem is a technicality related to the draft where when a player is drafted from the CHL, he have to be return at his junior team if he is 18 or 19 years old. Since Kalus was drafted from his junior club in Czech, there is a chance that the B's can send him to the AHL. Chiarelli stated that Kalus might be "too strong " for the junior league.

Two cuts remaining for the B's before the opening game. Kalus has his ticket to leave Beantown and the other winner of the lottery could be Wade Brookbank. However it's unclear,at this point, who will be cut.

NHL's Biggest Busts: Part II

Being pick at the #1 spot could be lethal. It's do or die. Lots of them will never raise to the expections that teams have for them. Sometimes, the player cracks under the pressure. Sometimes it's work ethic; sometimes it's the scouting squad who simply make a mistake.

Our second player, in NHL biggest busts, can fall in that last category where scouts are so high on a player that they becomes blind. Because he deserved it and, mostly, because Stefan is Matt's "secret" guilty pleasure; Patrik Stefan is our second winner in NHL biggest busts.

Draft in 1999, The selection of Patrick Stefan is a bit puzzling considering that the Sedin Twins, Tim Connelly and Martin Havlat were all avaiable that year. When you look at Stefan's numbers, there's nothing to be excited. His best NHL season was in 2003-2004 with a grand total of 40 points. When you look before that season, Stefan was able to have seasons of 15 and 35 points (IHL) and 25,31,23,34 with Atlanta. Stefan was a no show since the beginning, but people, in Atlanta, had faith (it's tough to admit a huge mistake like this). Faithful there were until Ilya Kovalchuk make his debut with a 51 points rookie season followed by a 67 and 87 points season. In only 3 seasons, Kovalchuk was able to surpass the total of points of Stefan who played 6 season in Atlanta. From there, Stefan was nothing more then a ghost and when Marc Savard arrived in Atlanta in 2002-2003 and delivered a 47 season points, the choice of Stefan was even more embarassing. Stefan was not the forward Atlanta though and his defensive play was, at time, horrible since he manage to put an astonishing -41 (career total). Finally, Atlanta had enough and traded him, this year, to the Dallas Stars for Niko Kapanen.

Stefan is the best example of a team who made an horrible choice due to a blind scouting team. When you look back at the numbers of Stefan; there's no way this guy could have been an impact player in the NHL. Of course, the selection of Heatly and Kovalchuk were excellent but can you imagine what Atlanta could have been if they had selected Martin Havlat instead of Patrik Stefan?

Chat Tonight

I will be holding a special chat tonight at around 8:30 until 10 pm or so EST. We can all talk about the game we heard tonight, or those with the Center Ice Package can tell us what they saw. Hope to see you all in there. I am going to change the scheldued Friday chats to Wednesday due to conflicts, but it will still be at 7 pm EST.

I am going into the chat NOW, until whenever, so I will see you all in there.

The Hockey News Bruins Preview

From The Hockey News Magazine-

By David Walter, Contributing NHL Editor

(Sports Network) - After a disappointing season last year, the Boston Bruins made the biggest move this offseason in the National Hockey League: literally.

The Bruins, who were extremely busy this summer re-tooling their roster, made the most significant splash in free agency signing the 6-foot-9, 260-pound mammoth defenseman Zdeno Chara away from fellow Northeast division foe, the Ottawa Senators.

The Chara signing was just the beginning of a brand new start in Beantown.

Boston, which finished 13th overall in the Eastern Conference last season, has made changes from the top down in the organization in hopes of rebuilding a competitive franchise. With new general manager Peter Chiarelli in the fold, along with Dave Lewis serving as the new head coach, Boston is hoping the changes made in the front office as well as on the ice, will get the club back into the postseason.

Along with Chara, the Bruins added the highly coveted center Marc Savard in free agency to give them a strong playmaker down the middle and bolster an offense that was ranked 24th overall in the league last season.

After trading away its franchise star player in Joe Thornton last fall, Boston never recovered offensively and the club hopes Savard can build off his career-year with Atlanta last season.

With adding two of the best players available in free agency in Chara and Savard, a franchise that looked lost and without direction last season, suddenly looks like it is back on track with a fresh new culture and commitment to winning.

Chiarelli also made several other moves to bolster his roster, including acquiring solid two-way defenseman Paul Mara from the Phoenix Coyotes and trading away goaltender Andrew Raycroft to the Toronto Maple Leafs on draft day for netminding prospect Tuukka Rask.

With Chiarelli bolstering the roster of the club with new talent, it will be up to Lewis to fit the pieces together and implement a strong system to get this storied franchise back to playing meaningful games come spring.

FORWARDS - Rising star Patrice Bergeron gives Boston a top play-making center and will form a nice one-two punch with Savard down the middle. Bergeron led the team in goals (31) and points (73) last season and clicked with linemates Brad Boyes and Marco Sturm. Boyes had an impressive rookie campaign last season and along with the shifty Sturm, formed a top scoring line with Bergeron for a club that featured speed and scoring.

While the talented Savard will not be able to provide the Bruins with the all- around physical game that Thornton brought to the ice, the nifty playmaker will supply the team with a go-to guy who makes the players around him better. Savard's 69 assists last season were third-best in the league and the wingers on the Bruins should benefit from Savard's playmaking ability.

Winger Glen Murray will be most excited to play with Savard as his production dropped off last season. Murray averaged 37 goals in his three previous campaigns and last year saw his goal-scoring production dip to 24 goals. Murray brings a solid veteran presence and a willingness to work the corners and crash the net, and should see his production bounce back with Savard getting him the puck.

Role players P.J. Axelsson, Wayne Primeau and Shean Donovan supply Boston with some experience and character as well as some scoring depth.

Keep an eye on 18-year-old Phil Kessel, who was Boston's first-round pick (fifth overall) in this year's draft. The youngster could make the team out of training camp with his excellent speed and scoring ability.

DEFENSE - Chara and Mara will immediately improve the Boston defense corps as both players will log a ton of minutes, taking pressure off of Brad Stuart, who often approached 30 minutes of ice time per-game last season.

Besides adding a physical presence in the defensive zone, Chara and Mara will also significantly improve goal-scoring production from the back end for the Bruins. The two combined for 18 power-play goals last year and should bolster a power-play unit that was ranked 25th in the league last season.

After Chara, Mara and Stuart, things in the defensive zone become a little foggy for Boston. Milan Jurcina was a pleasant surprise last season for the club, playing an all-around solid two-way game and will benefit from playing with one of Boston's top three defensemen.

From there on out there are no certainties as Boston will roll the dice with youngsters Andrew Alberts and Mark Stuart, who have spent significant time at the American Hockey League level. Tough guy Wade Brookbank could also see action as well as veterans Jason York and Nathan Dempsey.

While Boston's defensive unit will be much improved in front of its own net and provide some added scoring depth, the Bruins still lack quality speed from their defenseman and their transition game could suffer and frustrate their speedy forwards by not getting them the puck.

GOALTENDING - With the erratic Raycroft being shipped to Toronto, 32-year-old journeyman Tim Thomas and 22-year-old Hannu Toivonen will share the goaltending duties.

While Thomas' unorthodox style kept the Bruins in several games last season, he has never played a full season in the NHL. Boston rewarded Thomas with a three-year contract extension in the offseason and he is expected to split time between the pipes with Toivonen.

Toivonen is projected to be the goaltender of the future for Boston and very well could start the season as Boston's No. 1 netminder. The Finnish goaltender has quick reflexes for a big netminder and is technically sound.

Rask, who was acquired from Toronto in the Raycroft deal, is just 19-years-old and a solid prospect, but the Finn is still a few years away from playing in the NHL.

WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE - The Bruins are taking the proper steps necessary to get the franchise back on track, although the fruits of their labor might take some time to show on the ice.

Boston should be a better overall team this season, but playing in the Northeast Division with Ottawa and the Buffalo Sabres, the Bruins face some stiff competition. Lack of depth on the blueline and inexperienced goaltending could haunt Boston, but if they overachieve in those areas there could be playoff hockey next spring.

Lars Jonsson

Anyone remember this kid? Continuing on the line of busts, this kid was drafted in the 2000 draft by the Bruins 7th overall. He never played one NHL game. Do the Bruins still own his rights or anything? What ever happened? Hopefully Phil Kessel isn't an Alexander Daigle or Lars Jonsson.

NHL's Biggest Busts: Part I

Yes, reaching the NHL is not an easy task. There's so many levels you have to pass, that when you finally get drafted, it's a dream come true. But, for some players, this dream turn into a nightmare; especially when you've been drafted at the #1 spot. There's lots of stories regarding how sad and spectacular those #1 have crashed their careers. I will write a series of column regarding the best NHL busts in recent memory. I will start this series with a spectacular one: Alexandre Daigle.

Drafted by Ottawa in 1993 at the #1 spot, Daigle was the "Sidney Crosby" of his time. He played for the Victoriaville Tigers in the Quebec major league hockey and terrorized league's goaltenders game after game. He was spotted very fast by scouts.

The context was crystal clear in Ottawa. The franchise need to return, after a few horendous years, and they needed someone to sell tickets. Like every expension team, the team would have to go through some tough seasons before being able to compete. It was the Mel Bridgeman (Mel who?) era and the front office was full of incompetent people (sounds like last's B's front office). The first season of the team (92-93) was horrible since they managed to win only ten times (10-70-4). After that horrible season, everything was set to draft Daigle. In his first season, Daigle did good for a rookie, managing a total of 51 points but was down the abyss with an incredible +/- of -45 ! In fact those 51 points will be the higher amount of points he will ever get in his career. When you look after that season, Daigle produced respectively 37-17=51. For a guy that signed, at the time, the richest contract (5 years/12.25 millions) for a rookie, it was not enough. The Sens traded him to Philadelphia in 97-98. The overall result: a waste of money and the fact that they passed on players such as Pronger and Kariya.

Daigle's results were puzzeling. For a guy who, basically, burned his major junior league, his NHL production was less then impressive. Lots of times, his work ethic and motivation were questionned and there is no doubt that Daigle liked the spotlight more then the red light. He made probably one of the most stupidest comment ever, when he said, "Nobody remembers the second draft pick." For sure, but everyone will remember the incredible failure he was.

The key of Daigle's mystery was revealed during an extended interview he gave to RDS (sports french network). The interviewer askedim about his "little secret". Daigle smiled, waited, a couples of seconds, and drop the bomb,"Well before I got drafted, I didn't have any passion for the game anymore". In fact, Daigle said, at the times, that he was pushed so hard to make it, that he lost the fun of playing the game. Of course, in his last year, just before the NHL draft, everything was buzzing around him (media, agents, spotlights, sponsorships) and he suffered a tremedous pressure to produce. He talked to his coach about his doubts regarding his career but the perspective to deceive his father (who had the dream to play in the NHL) and the fact that he could assured his future with a lucrative contract finally rush him to the NHL draft. From there, eveything was clear. His lack of motivation and work ethic, The fact that he was more interested in off ice activites then hockey, his evident taste for "famous people" like actors and so on.

The story of Daigle is sad. It's an history of an immature boy who decided to live a life that he didn't want to. He got paid and never delivered and that's why he tried a comeback. After all those years, he probably, at some point, would have tought it was time to look at him the mirror. Did he screwed the system? No! Did he screw with the Sens and the fans? I think he did. But, at his own discharge, the situation in Ottawa was ugly. There was no competent people in place; the front office was more then willing to give him the money he wanted because they saw him as their franchise player and finally, Daigle had no veterans (Randy "the thrill" Cunneyworth) to turn to and, at this age, it's important to be surrounded by experienced people. Especially, when you are immature like he was. Luckily for him, Yashin came a year later and people could talk more about Yashin and less about him. But history will retain that Daigle signed the richest contract for a rookie at the time and that he failed tremedously to rise to the occasion. Finally, people will remember the 2nd drafted player. He's in Anaheim and he will be a future Hall of Famer...Chris Pronger.

Projected 4th Line

I have seen many comments on what people believe the 4th line will be, and by looking who is still on the NHL roster, I have come to this lineup.

-Mark Mowers signed a 2 year, 925,000 dollar deal, which is one way, so he is a given.

-Yan Stastny is another given since he played on the line last year, hasn't been sent down, and is the type of players the B's want on that line.

-The final LW has been a tricky one. According to some sources, and viewing what the roster is right now, Petr Klaus is the most likely canidate to play there. He has shown great presence and is going to be a solid NHL player in the future. Others also think Tenkrat could possibly play there, but I don't beleive so. He is an injury replacement. Wade Brookbank will also get some considerable time filling in for any of the 3.

Projected Line:

Klaus-Mowers-Stastny
Brookbank

No Playoffs For the B's This Season

According to Espn Scott Burnside, the B's will finish 12th in their conference and will miss the playoffs. Burnside says that there are too many new faces to make the team successful this year. The funny thing about that is that Burnside says that Montreal will finish 4th in the conference. Yes, ladies and gentlemans, 4th in the conference without having a #1 defenseman in their lineup and a legitimate #1 goaltender (Huet cannot be consider as a #1 until he play a full season behind the pipes).

Latrappe's take: I don't know how Burnside analyzed the whole thing but I don't see how the signing of Chara, Savard and Mara should have a negative impact on the team. Burnside says that it's too much to ask for that team (too many new faces) to reach the playoffs? Why? Was Carolina was that good before the lockout? I don't think so and according to Burnside's theory, they shouldn't be in the playoffs because they had lots of "new faces" too. His evaluation of Dave Lewis is intriguing. According to him, Lewis is a soft guy who didn't find a way to make Detroit win in the playoffs. I don't know where Burnside was, last spring, because Babcock get an early exit from the playoffs in the first round.

Matt's take: Scott Burnside can shove it. Get out of your mom's basement Scott, smell the fresh air. These so called "experts" don't ever get anything right. They all go with what the majority thinks or that sexy pick (aka Dolphins to beat the Pats in the division). I'll tell you this, if the Bruins finish 12th in the conference, the TD Banknorth Garden will be in ashes.

4th Line Analysis

This analysis will be a tough one since we don't know exactly who will be on this particular line. But, for the sake of the discussion, let's assume that Mark Mowers and Yan Stastny will be on that line.

Mark Mowers: The classic 4th line grinder who will gives you a 100% performance every night. An energy player who will not hurt your team while being on the ice. His +13, last year will be very appreciated by the team since we all know that last year, our 4th line killed us way too many times. Mowers will also provide veteran leadership.

Yan Stastny: Stastny is not the classical grinder. He has speed, limited skills and a good sense of hockey. His defensive play will have to be better if he wants to stay all year in Beantown. Stastny showed some signs of a solid player last year, and hopefully will take his game up another level.


This line should not be overlooked because, let's face it, those guys are minute killers. Their performances will determine how much the coach will be able to rest his first two lines. Those guys will have to keep their game simple and make sure score more than the other teams scores on them. By doing so, they will relieve some pressure from the scoring lines and assure a good balance within the team.

B's Send Players to Providence

According to the Herald, the B's reduced their roster to 25 when they sent down: Martins Karsums, David Krejci, Pascal Pelletier, Tyler Redenbach, Nate Thompson, Kris Versteeg, Ben Walter, Bobby Allen, Matt Lashoff, Jay Leach and Jonathan Sigalet and goaltender Brian Finley.

Matt's take: Only one surprise, Martins Karsums. I thought he looked good from what I heard and saw. But saying that, it would be better for him to play on the 1st line in Providence than the 4th line in Boston. This also means that the 4th line will likely look like Petr Klaus, Mark Mowers, and Yan Stastny.

Cap Pressure to Force Devils Trade?

According to Bob McKenzie, the Devils situation has become more and more complicated since Sweet Lou will have to be under the cap for October 4th. There's no relief who can be make on Malakhov retirement or Mogilny injury since those guys were 35 years old when they signed (multi-years contracts) and this means that their salary will count against the cap. These two guys are eating 7.1 million of cap space this year. McKenzie also pointed out that it will be interesting to see if a GM would be gutsy enough to pull the trigger on an offer sheet for Paul Martin, Dave Hale or Brian Gionta.


Latrappe's take: Iv'e already stated that the Devils are the first example of mismanagement of the new CBA. Sweet Lou is painted in the corner and he will probably have to deal, at least, two players to stay under the cap. The bad news is that he will have to deal those guys for draft picks or low cost prospects which is not enough for those quality players. By waiting that long, Lamoriello reduce his negociating power to nothing. The next couples of days will be very interesting.

Matt's take: Please Lou trade someone instead of bullshitting your way out with "injuries" and retirements. Come to reality, lets go.

Lewis Tinkering

According to the Herald, Dave Lewis would like to start the season with a first line compose with Bergeron-Boyes-Kessel and a second line with Savard-Murray and Sturm. It looks good to me but I still think that it would be dangerous to separate Sturm from Bergeron since they were so productive together last year.

Bruins First Line Analysis

Patrice Bergeron: The top center of the team. He made a good impression in his first year and since then, his play had gradually improved. Bergeron is a good two way center with speed, skills and work ethic. His defensive game is very good and he manages to be a good hard checker without taking bad penalties. Smart in the three zones, there's no doubt that Bergeron will become the dangerous sniper the B's see in him. Bergy is young and the arrival of a veteran like Chara will only accelerate the maturity process. Bergeron makes players better around him. That's enough to tag him as "the franchise" player. Yes, Beantown have a heck of a center, in his lineup, and it's for 5 years. Expect a 40 goals and 55 assists for Bergy this year for a total of 95 points.

Marco Sturm: In San Jose, Sturm was considered as a 20 goal scorer. Last year, Sturm showed speed, skills and a very good wrist shot. His chemistry with Bergeron was undeniable. The two players gelled together very fast and the two of them were a permanent threat on the ice. Bergeron will probably transform Sturm into a potential 30 or even 40 goal scorer. If Sturm can improve his defensive game a bit, he will become a very complete forward who will be in demand next year on the free agent market. If Sturm stay healthy, he can reach 33 goals and 40 assists for 73 points.

Brad Boyes: Obtained in trade from San Jose, Boyes was a prospect until....he played with Bergeron. Boyes is a natural center and he started the last season as the #2 center of the team. Of course, without a real #1 scoring line, Sullivan had to make an experiment and he put Boyes on the first line with Sturm and Bergeron. Boyes is a skilled speedy forward who create space for his teammates. Boyes is a polyvalent player and, in the case of an injury of Savard, there's no doubt that Boyes will fill the void very quickly and make this 2nd line works perfectly. Expect a season of 30 goals and 40 assists for Boyes.

There's no doubt in my mind that the B's first line will be lethal with the new NHL rules. There's a mix of speed, skill and intelligence that could makes them very productive. With a legitmate #2 scoring line, they will be more dangerous then ever.

Teams Putting to Much Faith Into the Unknown?

This year will be interesting. Many teams are putting faith into playoff hero goalies, and I am not so sure it will work out. Even the Bruins are doing that a little, but that aside, teams like Anaheim, San Jose, and Carolina are putting WAY to much faith into these guys.

San Jose- Why not give Nabokov the starting job. If you didn't like this guy, why did you sign him to a huge deal last season? Toskala was an unknown until late in the season, and you can't ride your franchise on guys like this, aka Tim Thomas, forever. If San Jose deals Nabokov, they will regret it.

Anaheim-This one isn't as bad. J.S. Giguere is still a great goalie, and like others, he struggled last season. Ilya Bryzgalov, who is on my fantasy team, is an awesome goalie, but still, he hasn't even played a full season and Anaheim is ready to deal Giguere. Anaheim may not regret trading Giguere if they do, but it could turn out disaterous.

Carolina-This one pisses me off the most. Cam Ward. Come on. He barley played during the regular season, Martin Gerber carried this team, and he started 57 of the games, posted a low GAA and a high SV%. Cam Ward only got a chance because Gerber went down in the playoffs and he put together a great streak of a few playoff games. Well earned job Ward, nothing against him, great performance, but why let Gerber walk for a few million, and take a REALLY UNPROVEN Cam Ward into the season to defend the title.

Burke Placed on Waivers

The Tampa Bay Lightning have announced that G Sean Burke has been placed on waivers. Any team can claim him within 24 hours, and then he will be sent to the minors. The Lightning are set to go into the season with Marc Denis as the starter, who was acquired from Columbus for Fredrick Modin, and Joham Holmqvist. Burke could get interest from the Canucks, who still haven't found a backup for Roberto Luongo. The Bruins could possibly inquire, but his salary is a little steep, and with the lack of cap room they have it is unlikely. He could become a trading piece if he is not picked up on waivers for teams where the goalie situation doesn't work out.

Bruins 2nd Line Analysis

Me and Latrappe are doing an anaylsis of the B's roster piece by piece. We already did the goaltending and the defense. Now on to the 2nd line.

Phil Kessel-Selected 5th overall in this draft, Kessel is probably going to turn out to be one of, if not the best player in this draft. At one point he was rated higher than Sidney Crosby. Kessel has all the tools and ability to become an NHL star, and he will likely be playing with Marc Savard and Glen Murray. Savard will be great for Kessel, since Savard likes to dish the puck and Kessel is a natural goal scorer. At only 18, Kessel will be a part of one of the youngest teams in the NHL. Look for a 50-60 point season from Phil the thrill.

Marc Savard-Savard signed a 4 year deal worth 20 million this offseason after posting 97 points with the Thrashers last season. Many people have mediocre expectations for him, believing he only scored those 97 points since he had Marian Hossa and Ilya Kovalchuk as his wings. Savard is made for the new NHL, and will post around 80-9o points this season. Savard will provide a 1b line center that the team lacked last season after the departure of Joe Thornton. Savard has been known to be irratating to coaches, but it seems like that hasn't been a problem so far.

Glen Murray-The million dollar question; can Murray reenvent his career? Is he anything without Jumbo Joe? The answer. Yes. Murray is not a playmaker, he is a sniper. He has a cannon for a shot, and if he has the the right guy dishing him the puck, he can pot 40 goals. Murray will be Savard's favorite target this season, and this line will make a top 1-2 punch for the team. Muzzy still has the gas left in the tank, but he isn't as potent without a playmaking center. Expect to see this line for years to come.

Orszagh Out

Blues forward Vladimir Orszagh has had surgery on his left knee, which could sideline him for the entire season. The team said Orszagh, who had been slated to play on the first line, will be re-evaluated next month.

Season Awards Predictions

Here they go. I will also be doing a mid season awards prediction.

Stanley Cup Champions-Boston Bruins (have to go with them), Anaheim Ducks

Eastern Conference Champions-Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes/Buffalo Sabres

Western Conference Champions-Anaheim Ducks

Hart Memorial-Alexander Ovechkin

Jame Norris Memorial-Zdeno Chara

Calder Memorial-Phil Kessel

Frank J. Selke-Jere Lehtinen

Lady Byng Memorial-Daniel Alfredsson

Vezina-Roberto Luongo

Jack Adams-Dave Lewis

Art Ross-Alexander Ovechkin

William M. Jennings-Mikka Kiprosuff

Bill Masterton Memorial-Paul Kariya

King Clancy Memorial-Mats Sundin

100 Point Man Needed

This is what the Bruins need, a 100 point man. No team can win the Stanley Cup, exception Carolina due to emense amount of depth at all posistions, without a 100 point man. Players such as Ovechkin, Crosby, Jagr, and Thornton are what I am talking about. When the Bruins signed Savard this is what they were looking for. A 90-1oo point a year man. Now, Bergeron will eventually, in my opinion, become a 100 point guy a season regularly in my opinion, and Brad Boyes could become a 80-90 point guy regularly soon also. The Bruins may not have their 100 point man now, but that doesn't mean he isn't on their roster. The Bruins have a lot of depth, and will contend for the cup this year, but they will not be at their peak of contention until around 2009-2010.

What's With All the Injuries?

What's going on? It seems like more players this pre-season than others have been injured. Knock on wood, it isn't any Bruins players. Players like Ruutu, Corvo, Federov, and Malkin have all been hurt. Is it that they are out of shape, or more of a fluke play type thing. My guess is a combination of both. That is one thing I hate about pre-season; injuries. Just an idea to think about.

Tuomo Ruutu Out

More bad news for Hawks fans. Newly resigned Tuomo Ruutu will be out again. He will miss 4 weeks of the regular season after spraining his left knee in a pre-season game vs. the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Pacific Division Analysis

Dallas: They get ride of Guerin (which is a very good news) and lost Kapanen. Kapanen is the key here and I'm not sure that they will be able to replace his presence. They add a couple of players like Patrick Stefan (who was deceiving with Atlanta) and Jaroslav Modry, but nothing spectacular there. The resigning of Brendan Morrow is an excellent news for the fans. Their goaltending is solid and you can expect Dallas to contend for the #1 spot of the division.

San Jose: They made their biggest move, last year, acquiring Joe Thornton from Boston. From there, Jonathan Cheechoo become a dangerous sniper and JT made players around him better, which is funny, since he was never able to do so in Boston (expect for Glen Murray). They lost Brad Stuart in the JT trade and let go Tom Pressing in the Mark Bell deal. The net is in good hands but everybody knows that your goaltending is good as your defense. San Jose will be an offensive threat with a good PP unit. The 100$ question: Do this fire power cover for their defensive mistakes?

Anaheim: The Ducks will have the best one-two punch in the league at the blue line with Pronger and Niedermayer. Last year, they had a good surprise with Selanne but the offense could be their biggest problem. They have two very good goaltenders but the controversy between the two keepers could affect the team and destroy the lockeroom atmosphere. With his huge contract, Giguere will be tough to move but, because goaltending could be an issue for a couples of teams, Burke will be able to find a suitor for him. Still, the Ducks will compete but they are like the Thrashers; you never know what kind of team will show up in a particular night.

Los Angeles: The Kings will be the same team as last year and they will have to find an answer for their tremedous collapse of last year. Maybe the answer will come with the arrival of Dean Lombardi who will replace Dave Taylor, who took all the blame for the team's collapse. The addition of Dan Cloutier may suggest that the front office was not satisfied with the goaltending situation but Cloutier never reached the expectations Vancouver had for him. I don't expect Cloutier to be a factor for the Kings this year. They added veterans like Scott Thornton and Rob Blake, who will help them on the PP, but Blake is on the verge of retirement so his impact will be limited.

Phoenix: The addition of Ed Jovanovski and Nick Boynton should help them a lot on the defensive side but their goaltending is a huge question mark. Curtis Joseph did well last year, but the teams around the league made their adjustments to the new rules and the game will become quicker and quicker. I don't expect Cujo to have the same season as last year. I don't think that David Le Neveu or Phillipe Sauve can take the slak here. In this very competitive division, having premium goaltending will be the key. Phoenix gave big contract to Jovanovski and Boynton and it remains to be seen if the team will be able to land an impact goaltender if something goes wrong with Cujo.

1- Dallas
2- San Jose
3- Anaheim
4- Los Angeles
5- Phoenix

Bruins Goaltending Analysis

The Bruins goaltending situation will be interesting this season, I will take a look at each of them and give you my thoughts.

Hannu Toivonen-Hannu has shown flashes of brilliance at times, but he isn't a number one goalie yet. One of the top prospect goalies in the league, Toivonen will get the shot at number one this year. Toivonen is one of the most flexable goalies in the league, with the ability to do a rare Chinese ankle split. This gives him the ability to cover post to post without moving. One of Toivonen's major weakness's is he is injury prone. To be a number one goalie, you obviously have to stay healthy. Goaltending is often underrated, but it is one of not the most important posistion. We all saw what happened to the Lightning and Flyers.

Tim Thomas-Where is the love? When Thomas replaced an injured Hannu Toivonen, he went on a tear. After signing with Boston from Europe, he started the season in Providence. Thomas did show flashes of a number 1, including an extremely hot streak in his first 10 games. But, he is more valuable as a backup, and is possibly one of the best in the NHL. Thomas signed a 3 year/3.3 million dollar extension with the B's after his streak at the end of the season, one of MOC's last moves. This didn't seem like a bad deal to me at the time, but now to me, it seems that 1.1 million a season to much for a backup in the new NHL. Thomas will get the duties of number 1 if Toivonen fails to keep the job.

Tuukka Rask-Widely known as the best puck stopping goalie in the world at only 18. Chiarelli pulled one off "stealing" him for Andrew Raycroft, who slipped down to 3rd on the depth chart. Rask will not be playing with the big club this year, but in a year or two he will definately be up here. Rask could see some time in Providence, but will likely play with his college team.

Brian Finley-Will be the starter in Providence this year. Once regarded as one of the top prospects in the game when he was with the Blues. He started his career off well, but he was injured and never bounced back. After returning, he was horendous, and later went to Nashville where things were no better. He has been playing well in the pre-season, and could be heading in the right direction. Finely could be up with the Bruins if an inury occurs.

Jordan Sigalet-Brother of Jonathan Sigalet, Jordan will be the backup in Providence, but could be promoted to starter if Finely doesn't stay up to par. Jordan has been very good this pre-season, and is one the Bruins better goaltending prospects. Sigalet will probably not see any ice time with the Bruins, but down the road that may change. Sigalet could also be trade bait at the deadline due to the "young" depth the Bruins have at the goaltending posistion.

*Note: Chiarelli has stated that if Thomas and Toivonen don't work out, he will be shopping for a starting goalie such as Evgeni Nabokov, Martin Biron, Robert Esche, J.S. Giguere, and others.

Bruins Defenseman Analysis

I just reed a good column about Alberts in today's Boston Herald. It gave me the idea of a little blue line analysis.


Zdeno Chara- The General. He was brought to eat lots of minutes but he was also brought for his great work ethic and his leadership. A great signing for the B's considering the youth at the blue line and the fact that there's more prospect (Lashoff, Stuart) to come.

Brad Stuart- Since his arival in Beantown, he's stepped up big time and his game has reached a new level according to many hockey writers (espn, RDS, TSN). Iv'e always consider Stuart as a work in progress. I liked him in San Jose and I was surprise that he was included in the JT since a defenseman take a lot of time to reach their potential. TSN rated him as a potential #2 D-man; I think he will become a solid #1. Expectations will be very high this year, but the presence of Mara and Chara will remove pressure on him. I expect a very good season from him.

Paul Mara- Mara is a tough client to evaluate. Some peoples like him, some don't. In Phoenix, they said that he had tough time in his own end but he showed in the pre-season, that it's not the case. He will, certainly, contribute offensively but expect him to work on his defensive side because that's what the B's need the most.

Andrew Alberts- He played in a lots of games last year but was clearly not the favorite of the coach. Alberts is a stay-at-home defenseman and from what Iv'e seen from him so far is good. He improved his "own end" game and will have to be careful about penalties. He improved his foot work and he's not afraid to hit the guy in front of him. I think he deserves a spot on that blueline.

Milan Jurcina- Played a lot, last year, since Sullivan liked him a lot. He has a hard shot for sure but, in the pre-season games, he showed that he needs to work on his speed and footwork. The best example was the one-on-one against Latendresse where he was undressed but the young rookie beat him. It will be a tough decision in his case considering that you have veterans like Dempsey or York who can play his role.

Jason York- Experience, experience, experience. This guy have more then 700 NHL under his belt and his presence will help the young D-man. I expect him to have a spot on the team as a 5th or 6th D-man and from the few clips I saw from him, he didn't look foolish at all.

Matt Lashoff- A prospect well rated by the TSN staff. He has good speed and takes very good decisions in his own end. I still think he have a chance to make the team as a 6th defenseman. People will blast me as they will say that he's way too young but remember what we said about Mark Stuart last year; he's not ready. So not ready that this guy finally had a regular spot on the blue line.

Mark Stuart- He's on the shelf right now but he showed, last year, that he can play with the big guys. He will probably stay in Providence all year considering the fact that he will have to rehab and the fact that there is depth at the blueline. So, there's nothing to rush here and the team should give, to this good prospect, the time to heal and play good minutes in providence.

Nathan Dempsey- The fifth wheel, the spare tire. He's a 7th defenseman. I don't know how he's doing in the pre-season since I didn't see anything from him. That said, I don't see him on the regular roster of the team.

Fun Fact

Read this on Spectors, and 20 of the 30 teams have payrolls over 40 million. Amazing to see what the salary cap has done.

Site Behavior

Let's make some statements here:

1- Matt is working is ass off to make a good site.
2- No one here, and I'm sure Matt feel the same way, pretend to be a hockey genius.
3- This site is about the Bruins and Hockey in general.
4- This site is young and improvements will be made time to time.
5- We do it in our spear time.

For those who post publically that Matt has stoled ideas and so on.. I was a webmaster and had my own site way before writing on Matt's site. When it becomes to codes; there's no stealing or so IF there's no copyright. The procedure is to write to the owner of the site, tell him about a particular idea you like from his site and ask him if you can put it on your own web site. Of course, you will put a link (of his site) to give him the credit for his idea. Lots of sources are "open" one and people can use it as they want it to. Thanks to Jason who straightened things out.

If you have any comments regarding grammar, content or anything else; please use our personal e-mail address to contact us. They are there for that purpose. Matt and I will be glad to hear your suggestions and that's the best way to improve the site. Bashing or bitching publically will only remove the credibility of a critic who can be very constructive.

Boucher Signs with Hawks

Goalie Brian Boucher has inked a one year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks. He was invited to training camp, and they liked what they saw. He will back up Nikolai Khabibulan while Patrick Lalime is returning from injury. Once Lalime is back, the Flyers could be very interested in Boucher.

Key Additions/Losses: Pacific Division

Today is the Pacific Addition. This will be the last piece on key additions/losses. I hope it gave you an idea on which players replaced which, how teams filled voids, and what teams improved player wise.

Dallas Stars
Additions: Patrik Stefan, Jeff Halpern, Eric Lindros, Matthew Barnaby, Darryl Sydor, Jaroslav Modry
Losses: Bill Guerin, Niko Kapanen

San Jose Sharks
Additions: Mark Bell, Mike Grier
Losses: Scott Thornton, Alyn McCauley, Nils Ekman

Anaheim Ducks
Additions: Chris Pronger
Losses: Jeff Friesen, Vitaly Vishnevski, Joffrey Lupul

Los Angeles Kings
Additions: Rob Blake, Scott Thornton, Dan Cloutier, Alyn McCauley
Losses: None

Phoenix Coyotes
Additions: Owen Nolan, Jeremy Roenick, Ed Jovanovski, Nick Boynton
Losses: Mike Johnson, Paul Mara

Kessel on 1st Line?

Could Phil Kessel play on the first line? Before you lose it, I know you don't want to mess with Sturm, Bergeron, Boyes connection, but Dave Lewis may be pondering this idea. In tonight's game, the 2nd line was Sturm Savard Murray. The idea could be that Savard needs 2 proven playmakers to be successful, and Sturm and Murray will provide that. Kessel would then play LW with Bergeron and Boyes, a future tandom for years to come. Bergeron would also help Kessel develope more than Savard could possibly, another reason why it could happen. The players and Lewis have also said that they are not sure yet what the lines will be, we can only assume. This is just an observation, but do you agree?

Bruins Win 3-2

The Bruins won their 4th straight game, beating the Islanders 3-2. The Bruins scored all their goals in the 1st period, starting quickly Tyler Redenbach scoring 2:01 in the game, assists to Matt Lashoff and Shean Donovan. Glen Murray scored at 14:33 on a 3-on-2, assists from Marc Savard and Marco Sturm. Jordan Sigalet finished the scoring at 16:04 on the PP, assists from Nathan Dempsey and other one by Marco Sturm. Overall a good game, and I noticed something intriguing that I will talk about. Good to see the B's winning.

Youth or Experience?

I followed B's training camp since the very beginning and one thing hit me. The team has depth at the blue line. In fact, it looks like the team will have to face some very tough decisions regarding who will be in the roster at the beginning of the season.

York and Dempsey are experienced defenseman. They respectively have 708 and 203 NHL games under their belt. According to reports, they play very well. Still, it seems that Matt Lashoff and Jordan Sigalet are doing very good, which mean that a decision will have to be made. I always liked Lashoff for his speed and the good decisions he take in his own end. The new NHL is based on speed and, of course, veterans like Dempsey and York , but they are on their last leg. When I look at the blue line with Chara, Stuart and Mara, I think there is enough veterans to help Jurcina, Alberts and Lashoff to complete their development in the big league. It doesn't mean that Dempsey or York could be useless, it simply means that in this new era, where speed IS the difference, you might go in another direction then focusing on aging veterans. If a guy like Lashoff deserves to be on the team, he should have the spot. The only question here is, whether or not, guys like York or Dempsey will accept to be the 7th defenseman. Do we start the season with more veterans and keep Lashoff and Sigalet in Providence in case of an injury? Do we bring them later in the season? What about Mark Stuart, on the shelf right now, who showed great things last year. He will have his stint in Providencem, but after that?

We were all afraid of our defensive corps last year arguing that they were way too young. It was tough, indeed, and the result was ugly. This year, we found ourselves in another position where a competent front office give the team many options. Youth or experience? I'm willing to be in the line of fire, considering the talent at the blue line, and says...youth.

B's Win 5-1

The B's beat the Islanders 5-1. Nate Thompson, Brad Stuart, Pascal Pelletier and Martins Karsums scored for the B's. That's the 3rd win in a row for the team. Chara was not in uniform tonight for the B's like the other 3/4 of the normal roster.

Key Additions/Losses: Northwest Division

Today is the Northwest Division.

Calgary Flames
Additions: Alex Tanguay, Brad Ference, Jeff Friesen
Losses: Jordan Leopold

Colorado Avalanche
Additions: Ken Klee
Losses: Rob Blake, Alex Tanguay

Edmonton Oilers
Additions: Daniel Tjarqvist, Joffrey Lupul
Losses: Chris Pronger, Radek Dvorak

Vancouver Canucks
Additions: Jan Bulis, Taylor Pyatt, Yannick Trembley, Willie Mitchell, Roberto Luongo
Losses: Dan Cloutier, Todd Bertuzzi, Alex Auld, Ed Jovanovski

Minnesota Wild
Additions: Mark Parrish, Keith Carney, Kim Johnsson
Losses: None

Going Into Chat

Going into the 7 pm chat! Come on in!

Central Division Analysis

Detroit: The gap left by Stevie Y retirement will be difficult to fill. You cannot lose that kind of future Hall of Famer " without an impact. The departure of Brendan Shanahan will have an impact too. Manny Legace was let go and it was clear that the front office thought that Legace was responsible for Wings's playoffs collapse last year. But I'm not sure that an aging Hasek is a part of the solution too. Still, they have Lidstrom to lead their defense and they surely have one of the best explosive young forwards in the league. Detroit's position in their ranking will largely depend on Hasek's performance.

Nashville: The addition of Jason Arnott will help them a lot. He will bring size and some toughness to a team that was consider pretty soft by some hockey writers. They lost Brendan Witt and decide to not re-sign Yanic Perreault, which is puzzling me because he had good statistics and his cost would be very affordable. The goaltending, with Vokoun, is superb and the addition of J.P. Dumont will help the offense. If there are any teams who can legitimitely contend for the first spot in the division, it's them.

Columbus: Doug MacClean did a good job to address his needs in the upfront by getting Frederick Modin and Anson Carter. If the Blue Jackets wants to win this year, they will have to count on a breakout year from their young sniper Gilbert Brûlé. I think it will happend considering the number of veterans who can help him through the process. The Holdout regarding Zherdev is a negative shadow surrounding the team. It could be a good idea for MacClean to resolve that problem sooner than later. Still, the Bluejackets are the great unknown in this division.

Chicago: If there is any home for mediocrity, it's Chicago. Last year was terrible since all their signings were bust: Aucoin was on the shelf almost all season; Khabibulin didn't deliver the goods; the same can apply to Barnaby, Lapointe and the list is very long. They trade their lockeroom cancer Tyler Anderson and send Mark Bell to San Jose. The addition of Havlat and Handzus should help them a bit. But the goaltending situation remain a question mark. If guys like Lapointe, Aucoin and Khabibulin can deliver; it could be a very interesting season in Chicago. Do I think it will happend? No!

St. Louis: Every division has a project and St. Louis should be considered as the Central Division Project. The addition of Ruscinski (without Jagr), Guerin (on the verge to be considered a pile of dead wood) and Weight are interesting, but those guys are on their last leg or so. So, it remains to be seen if their presence will have a real impact on team's performance. However, the addition of hard working and grinding defenseman Jay McKee is an excellent signing. I think St. Louis will have a decent team, but there is lots of question marks and I don't see them competing seriously in their division since everyone made some moves to improve their situation.

1-Nashville
2-Detroit
3-Columbus
4-Chicago
5-St. Louis

Chara Injury Update

Zdeno Chara was injured last night after blocking a shot. He is okay, and x-rays were negative. He wanted to come back in the game, but managment thought it would be better if he sat out. Chara may not play next game, but his injury is minor, and Bruins fans, we can relax.

Rumors and News

200th post!

News:

-Former Habs defenseman Todd Simpson has signed in Europe with the Hannover Scorpions, located in Germany.
-Vancouver Canucks resigned foward Josh Green. In 33 games, he recorded 6 points.
-The Philadelphia Flyers have signed head coach Ken Hitchcock to a three-year contract extension.
-The Los Angeles Kings have resigned restricted free agent foward Dustin Brown and defenceman Tim Gleason. Both received two year deals.
-Evgeni Malkin was injured in his NHL debut, he dislocated his shoulder, but will be okay, and will be ready intime for the beginning of the season.
-Sergei Federov hurt his shoulder in a preason game, and could miss up to 2-4 weeks of the regular season.


Rumors:

-Theo Fluery may try to make a comeback to the NHL next season, but was drunk when he was interviewed and when he said he may come back.
-Brian Leetch will not sign with the Rangers, and still hasn't decided whether to retire or play another season.
-Nikolai Zherdev wants either a 3yr/9 million dollar deal, or to be traded. He may also spend the season in Russia. More details soon...
-Jason Allison will sign with a Western Conference team, and the Blue Jackets and Flames are the leading canidates.
-The Sharks may move G Nolan Schafaer. Toskala may be the most likely to be dealt due to his low contract, and Nabokov's deal is so huge he is almost untradable.
-The Dallas Stars could deal D Janne Niiminaa. He is making 2.508 million this season, and could be attractive in teams in need for a 3rd or 4th defenseman. He was acquired from the Islanders for a draft pick last year.
-The Maple Leafs could deal G Sebastian Telqvist, with Raycroft slated to be the starter and Aubin being the backup.

Key Additions/Losses: Central Division

Moving on to the Western Conference. Today is the Central Division.

Deroit Red Wings
Additions: Danny Markov
Losses: Steve Yzerman, Brendan Shannahan, Manny Legace

Nashville Predators
Additions: Jason Arnott
Losses: Brendan Witt, Yanic Perreault

Columbus Blue Jackets
Additions: Fredrick Modin, Anson Carter
Losses: Marc Denis

Chicago Blackhawks
Additions: Martin Havlat, Bryan Smolinski, Patrick Lalime, Michael Handzus
Losses: Kyle Calder, Matthew Barnaby, Mark Bell

St. Louis Blues
Additions: Martin Rucsinky, Bill Guerin, Doug Weight, Jay McKee
Losses: Patrick Lalime, Dean McAmmond

Preds Sign Hamhuis

The Predators announced the resigning of RFA D Dan Hamhuis to a 4 year/8 million dollar deal. Hamhuis, 23, posted career highs in points last year, and is one of the up and coming defenseman in the NHL. Great signing by Predators.

Brian Savage Retires

Brian Savage announced his retirement from the NHL today. The 35-year old winger played 12 seasons in the NHL. Posting 192 goals and 167 assists.

Bondra to Detroit?

According to many website, and a source of mine, the Red Wings are heavily considering bringing in veteren RW Peter Bondra. Last season, Bondra played for Atlanta and put up respectable numbers, and with the Wings need in offense, he could be a perfect fit. There are two types of deals he could sign. A one year/1.5 million deal. Or a base salary of say 750,000, with incentives to earn up to 2 million per say. These are the two possible contracts the Wings are looking at.

New Chatroom

Thanks to Jason over at thenhlline, I was able to find a chatroom that is a LOT better than the current one. It has colored fonts, italitcs, bold, smiles, the whole shabang. Those familiar with AIM, it is a lot like that, so you can easily see who said what. Please check it out. I will be holding a special chat today from 8-9ish. Join, check out the new room. I hope you like it.

*Don't pay attention to the Password thing that comes up once you enter your name. Just say, "go without password".

GO INTO CHAT

Morrow Signs Extension with Dallas

TSN is reporting that the Dallas Stars and forward Brendan Morrow have agreed on a 6 year/24.6 million dollar deal.

Latrappe's take: This is a great news for Dallas fans and for the team. Morrow is a great two way forward and they are tough to find in these days around the NHL.

Worth It or Not?

Matt's biggest surprise post underline is very good question among fans. Are players worth what they are paid. That's an interesting question but, LOTS OF THE TIME, the angle to analyze the question is wrong. Remember when the B's signed Chara and Savard in the same day? Every fans around the NHL said that the B's were overpaying for those players. But what is overpaying? It is so money related? I mean, you overpaid a player when he didn't deliver the goods right? When the B's offered 7.5 per to Chara it was for many reasons. They want from him, of course, his talent but the team expect that Chara will be their general at the blue line. They expect Chara to stabilize the defensive corps; to help the young defensemans in their learning curve and assure a very good blue line for the next couple of years. If Chara delivers all of those things mentioned above, did the B's overpay him? I don't think so. When you sign a player you expect something. When those expectations are fullfil, you can consider that you have a return on your investement. The same can apply to Savard. They expect him to be a #2 centerman and help Murray to get right on track. If Savard is sucessful, he's not overpaid.

On the other hand, you have the classic overpay. The Habs are probably the best at this game. Let's throw few names as an example: Bonk, Samsonov, Koivu. They are all overpaid because they will not fullfil expectations for what they were signed. The Habs signed Koivu and expect him to be their #1 centerman. Koivu never was and never will be a #1 centerman in the NHL. Leadership wise, he could be their man but on the ice, he doesn't fit the bill. They signed Samsonov to a 3.5 million per contract and expect him to make Kovalev produce as a machine. It will not happend since we all know that, even if Sammy is a very dynamic player, he takes, in 80% of the time, the bad decision around the net. Playing with Ribeiro with not help either. Bonk is a bust for so many years. Ottawa expected from him a 40 goal scorer and it never happend.

Finally, you overpay when the player you have signed didn't deliver the goods. Whatever the amount, if those expectations, from the team, are not fullfilled, you've overpaid. In this new cap era, evaluating talent will be crucial. Are we are glad, now, that the B's made that front office overhaul?

Southeast Division Analysis

Carolina: Carolina is the reigning Stanley cup champion and no one expected it. They've lost Martin Gerber, Mark Recchi and Doug Weight, and this will have an impact on the leadership in the lockeroom. It will be difficult for the 'Canes to win the big prize again. Lots of teams have adjusted to this new NHL and the 'Canes will face a tough opposition inside the conference. They are basically the same young and speedy team and you can expect them to have a very good season. The big question is : Can Cam ward can repeat his performances of last year?

Florida: With Keenan as a GM, everything was possible including the worst, that's why he got fired too late. He basically destroyed the team in St. Louis and the Panthers fans are very lucky that he got the gate sooner then later. The Panthers trade of one of the best goalkeeper in the NHL, was because of the bad relationship between Luongo and Keenan. Now, the Panthers are stuck with an aging Ed Belfour and an unproven Alex Auld to keep the puck out of their net. The addition of Bertuzzi won't help them since he's not the same player as he was before the Moore incident, but Ruslan Salei should stabilize and help the young defensive corps. The Panthers are young and skilled but i don't see them in the playoffs; not with the kind of goaltending they have this year.

Washington: Basically the same team and they didn't add a lots of players since Brashear, Pothier and Zednik cannot be consider as "premium" players. They have the rookie of the year in their roster and, oh boy, did he make some special goals, last year! Like the Pens, Washington is a project but with a guy like Ovechkin to build on, Washington will be fine in, 2 or 3 years, if the proper work is done.

Atlanta: The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of the NHL. You never knows what kind of team will show in a particular night. Sometimes, they are flying, buzzing around your net and play like Stanley Cup champions. In another game, they are flat and lazy. The team have snipers like Kovalchuk and Hossa but they have the same problem as the B's had last year. The threat will come from one single line. They re-sign Lehtinen which is very good but the addition of Steve Rucchin will not replace the loss of Savard at center. A good team without consistency and until they find a solution regarding their rollercoaster performances, I don't see the Trashers in the playoffs.

Tampa Bay: Lecavalier, St. Louis and Richards are sure values and they will have to produce if the team want to make the playoffs. The addition of Marc Denis is very good but it's tough to evaluate his impact on the team. In Columbus, Denis was inconsistent but had a so-so defensive corps. Will he will be better in Tampa? The lost of Pavel Kubina will have an impact and I don't see Luke Richardson or Filip Kuba as the solution. The offense will be OK but all the teams in the conference have adjusted to the new NHL rules. Will the Tampa Bay's defense will step up and rise to the occasion?

1- Carolina
2- Tampa Bay
3- Atlanta
4- Washington
5- Florida

Who Will Be Your Biggest Surprise?

Who will be your biggest surprise on the Bruins this season? Mine is Marc Savard. People are all saying he isn't worth 5 million a year, and only got 97 points because he had Hossa and Kovalchuk on the same line. Well, I don't fully agree. Savard is made for the new NHL. He has speed, and is quick to dish the puck. He will definately prove doubters wrong and will be a welcoming surprise to Bruins fans with mediocre expectations. He will help Kessel get into Calder Trophy contention, and reenevent Murray's career. I'm interested in who will be your biggest surprise.

B's win 3-1

The B's are 2 on 2 since they win 3-1 against the Habs. Chara, Hoggan and Boyes did the damage. An impressive win where, this time, the team played a full 60 minutes.

Matt's Take: Chara has been lighting it up the 1st two games so far. This is looking like a great start to a hopefully great season. I know we are not supposed to take much from these games, but you can't help but be excited to see this guy in a B's jersey in October when the season starts.

Prospect Writer Wanted

Just letting you know, I am extremely interseted in having a Bruins Prospect Writer on this site. It would be great if you could give any in-depth anaylsis on a prospect. Maybe 1-2 prospects a week or so? Leave an email if you are interested.

Key Additions/Losses: Southeast Division

Today is the Southeast Division.

Carolina Hurricanes
Additions: John Grahame
Losses: Mark Recchi, Doug Weight, Martin Gerber

Florida Panthers
Additions: Todd Bertuzzi, Ed Belfour, Ruslan Salei, Alex Auld
Losses: Roberto Luongo, Sean Hill

Washington Capitals
Additions: Richard Zednik, Donald Brashear, Brian Pothier
Losses: None

Atlanta Thrashers
Additions: Niko Kapanen, Steve Rucchin, Vitaly Vishnevski
Losses: Marc Savard, Patrik Stefan, Peter Bondra, Jaroslav Modry, Thomas Vokoun

Tampa Bay Lightning
Additions: Filip Kuba, Marc Denis, Luke Richardson
Losses: Pavel Kubina, John Grahame, Fredrick Modin, Darryl Sydor

Site Milestone

We have had 12,000 hits on this site in only 1 1/2 months. When I started this site in early August, I had no idea how much success it would have, and thanks to you all, it has become a well known site. I am very glad and proud of this, I hope it continues to grow and keep spreading the word.

The C

Who will be the Bruins new captain? Well, I've talked to some people who are close to the Bruins and other people I know. I also asked my friends what they thought. They all agree. Zdeno Chara is the best and most likely to be captain. He has the biggest contract in team history, and is the number 1 defenseman on the team. He's going to be here long term, and is already showing leadership during practice. They don't want to give it to Bergeron because he is to young, and they don't want a Joe Thornton repeat. 95% chance he is captain. He is what the Bruins are all about, and soon Chara will be wearing the C.

Other canidates that were thought of:
Patrice Bergeron
Brad Stuart
P.J. Axlesson
Glen Murray

Tonight's Matchup

The B's will use their 2 top lines tonight which means that Bergeron, Boyes, Sturm , Savard, Murray, and Kessel will be in the lineup. It will be interesting to see the result of those two lines. Toivonen will play the first two periods. More update to come on tonight's matchup.

Morning Smile

You know that I read a lot from the french canadian press and it's was funny this morning to see fans rip off their team because of that training camp game: Trade Huet; Huet is a no good bastard; our best elements were not on the ice (euh.. Boyes, Bergeron and Savard were not there too) etc etc. Everyone knows that those games means very few and the purpose of those games is to see the future players of your organization play against real NHL players. Training = evaluation. But, still, it made me smile this morning to see the fans and the media hammering the Habs after one training camp game.

B's Edge the Habs

Boston beat Montreal 5-2, Marco Sturm lead the offense with 2 goals. Phil Kessel look very good in that game (he had two assists) and the young players (Kalus and co.) didn't look foolish at all. Tim Thomas stopped a penalty shot and was pretty solid for two periods. Bergeron and Savard were not in the lineup for this game.

Game Update

Bruins 2, Habs 0

Sturm scored on the PP, assisted by Phil Kessel. Newcomer Mark Mowers also scored in the PP right after.

Tie Domi Retires

Former New York Ranger and Toronto Maple Leaf Tie Domi will announced his retirement fro the NHL today. He will also be joining TSN Canada. Last season, he scored only five goals, assisted on 11 and had 109 penalty minutes. In all, he played 1,020 NHL games in 16 seasons for Toronto, the New York Rangers, the Winnipeg Jets and the Leafs again. He scored 104 goals and had 141 assits. The Leafs honoured him for his 1,000th game in an on-ice ceremony last season. Domi ranks 3rd all time in penatly minutes.

Key Additions/Losses: Atlantic Division

Today is the Atlantic Division.

New Jersey Devils
Additions: None
Losses: None

New York Rangers
Additions: Brendan Shanahan, Martin Straka
Losses: Martin Ruscinksy

New York Islanders
Additions: Mike Sillinger, Viktor Kolzov, Sean Hill, Bredan Witt, Chris Simon, Tom Poti
Losses: None

Pittsburgh Penguins
Additions: Mark Recchi, Evgeni Malkin
Losses: None

Philadelphia Flyers
Additions: None
Losses: Brian Boucher, Keith Primeau, Eric Desjardins

Atlantic Division Analysis

New Jersey: The first year of the CBA was a tough one for sweet Lou. Stuck with Malakhov, McGillis, and Mogiliny contracts, the GM will face some tough decisions. The re-signing of Scott Gomez and Patrick Elias was crucial but still, players like Gionta and Paul Martin are not sign yet. The Devils show a pretty balanced team and they can count on Mr. Shutdown himself: Marty Brodeur. Brodeur is the heart and soul of this team for many years, now, and I don't expect that to change. Having the best goaltender of the NHL in your net is "the edge". We will have to wait and see about the change that sweet Lou is about to make to keep his team under the cap. But still, the Devils is the team to beat in the Atlantic division largely because of their great goaltending.

Philadelphia: Primeau and Desjardins have retired and it will left a gap regarding leadership in the lockeroom. The resigning of Gagne will help the offense a lot and quite frankly, Clarke had no choice to resign him. There's no way you can be sucessful without your best goalscorer in the lineup. Like Ottawa, Philadelphia is a great regular season team but crumble in the playoffs. For a decade, Clarke failed to add a legitimate #1 goaltender who can bring his team to the next level and it's killing him year after year. Clark will have to fill the void at center and it will not be easy to do since the best free agents are gone. Snyder have express his displeasure regarding team's composition and it will be very interesting to see what will happend with Clark if things aren't going the way Snyder expect it. Still, Philadelphia is a very good team, but this year will be the same as the last one...a good regular season, but an early exit in the first or the second round due to a lack of solid goaltending.

Rangers: The addition of Brendan Shanahan will help the team, leadership and offensively wise. The Rangers will have a good offense with Jagr, Ruscinski and Straka leading the way. They produced well, last year, under the new rules and I don't expect them to stop this year. The goaltending is stable with Lundqvist and Weekes and the addition of Marek Malik will add depth to the blueline. Can the Rangers repeat their regular season success of last year? I say, Yes.

Islanders: Some people will never learn and Wang is a part of that category. He put a huge mortage on his team by signing DiPietro to a 15 years contract and fill up his front office with peoples who cannot handle the job. But do we have to be surprise since Wang keep Milbury so long behind the desk while he destroyed the team on a daily bases. The roster on the ice is still decent but off ice problems will plague the season. With a guy like Wang, everything is possible and you can expect the very worst for a team when hockey operations is controled by an owner who have an ego who make him think that he's an hockey genius. Garth Snow damage his credibility in this adventure as "ghost" GM.

Pittsburgh: A project: This team is full of talent with Crosby, Fleury and, maybe, Malkin. They have veterans to surround them but they still missing some pieces. The possible sale of the team will be a constant distraction and there's no indication that the head coach Michel Therrien will remain behind the bench all season long. Still, it will be a mistake to take the Pens too lightly and think that they will handle the 2 points graciously. A team full of young hungry wolves is always dangerous.

1- New Jersey
2- Rangers
3- Philadelphia
4- Pittsburgh
5- Islanders

Top 10 Worst Signings in the New NHL

This will be interesting. These are my top 10 worst signings by teams in the last two offseason. Give me your take.

1. Alexei Zhamnov 3 yr/12.3 million dollar deal with Boston. Injury plagued, has to retire, 10 points last season. Horrible, horrible.

2. Nikolai Khabibulan 4 year/27 million dollar deal with Chicago. After thinking they took one of the prizes of the UFA market, Khabibulan turned into one of the worst goalies in the NHL. One year wonder anyone? He was a total bust and will cost the team dearly capwise for years.

3. Alexander Mogiliny 2 year/7 million dollar deal with New Jersey. Why not a 1 year deal for this risk? Overpaid, and now is causing trouble in the Devils cap this season.

4. Brian Leetch 1 year/4 million dollar deal with Boston. A good signing at the time, but overpaid. Leetch never lived up to the hype, and was a bust in many peoples eyes. Was also injured and couldn't take control of Boston's PP.

5. Zigmund Palffy 3 year/13.5 million dollar deal with Pittsburgh. Palffy was hurt all season, and retired early into it. He never got the chance to unite with Crosby and Recchi. Waste of money.

6. Hal Gill 3 year/6.3 million dollar deal with Toronto. Since when to you pay your 4th defender 2.1 million a season? Especially when your offense is in trouble, lack of cap space, and Gill didn't really "play up to expectations" in a horendous Boston defense last year.

7. Dan McGillis 2 years/4.4 million dollar deal with New Jersey. Another horrible signing by Lou. He wasn't that great in Boston, and now he is in the minors.

8. Pavel Kubina 4 year/20 million dollar deal with Toronto. Another overpaid D-man on Toronto. Since when do you pay a 3rd defender 5 million a season? He wasn't anything special in TB, and will be a slightly above defender in Toronto. Another mistake by JFJ.

9. Michael Peca 1 year/2.5 million dollar deal with Toronto. Another mistake by JFJ. Why overpay for a 20 point 3rd line C, when Eric Lindros and Jason Allison would come back for less money? Don't ask me. Peca will be another bust/disappointment in a old, and overhyped Leafs roster.

10. Vladimir Malakhov 2 year/7.1 million dollar deal with New Jersey. ANOTHER mistake by Lou. Not his greatest offseaon. Malakhov wasn't anything great in NJ, and retired during the year. He could still come back, but his money still counts against the cap. Another should-a-been one year deal.

*Hmm...a trend anyone? (Hint: Toronto, New Jersey, Toronto, New Jersey, a few MOC blunders...)I hope GM's around the league will learn from Lou and JFJ's horrible signings and come to their senses on overpriced vetern and over hyped talent.

Key Additions/Losses: Northeast Division

I will be doing a key additions/losses column this week on each division. Starting with the Northeast.

Montreal Canadiens
Additions: Sergei Samsonov, Mike Johnson
Losses: Richard Zednik

Buffalo Sabres
Additions: Jaroslav Spacek
Losses: Jay McKee, J.P. Dumont, Rory Fitzpatrick, Taylor Pyatt

Boston Bruins
Additions: Zdeno Chara, Marc Savard, Phil Kessel, Shean Donovan, Paul Mara
Losses: Nick Boynton, Andrew Raycroft

Ottawa Senators
Additions: Joe Corvo, Martin Gerber , Dean McAmmond
Losses: Zdeno Chara, Martin Havlat, Bryan Smolinski, Dominik Hasek, Tyler Arnason

Toronto Maple Leafs
Additions: Pavel Kubina, Hal Gill, Andrew Raycroft, Michael Peca
Losses: Eric Lindros, Jason Allison, Ed Belfour, Tie Domi

Northeast Division Analysis

Since the training camp is on its way, it's time to look at the division where our beloved B's will compete.

Ottawa: It will be a though year for Ottawa since they have lost Havlat and Hasek. The goaltending will be a question mark even if the two goaltenders did do very good in the regular season last year. But, Gerber and Emery are still unproven regarding the playoffs. The big focus in Ottawa is performing in the playoffs. This team didn't find a way to win even when their team was packed withl talents. I don't expect them to do better in the playoffs, this year, since I didn't see on this team, character wise, what it takes to win it all. That said, Ottawa will be a tough client to handle with the like of Alfredsson, Heatley and Spezza and we will have to wait, and see if their goaltending can put them on top or make their season under expectations....

Buffalo: If the name of the game is goaltending, Buffalo have definitely the best one-two punch in goal this year. Miller is solid and will be the future #1 goalkeeper of the team while Biron proved, last year, that he's a legitimate #1 especially when he came out of the blue after the injury of Miller to pull out a long strecht of wins for the team. Performing under pressure is something teams are looking regarding goaltending. If the right offer comes, through the season, Biron is a goner. The team was able to keep their defensive squad almost intact, McKee left for another paradise, but the core remains pretty solid. They have played very well last year, and I don't expect the situation to change this year. The upfront is almost the same minus Dumont. We will have to see what will be the impact of that loss on the team but with Briere, Afinogenov and co., they should be fine. Tim Connelly will miss the start of the season and it could slow down a bit their offensive punch at the beginning of the season. With their solid goaltending, I don't see Buffalo anywhere but at the top spot of the division.

Montreal: What can we say about Montreal since, in all the newspaper, they think that the signing of Samsonov will bring them the cup. Overrated is probably the word who can define the most the Habs this year. Expectations are always very high in Montreal but there will be no Lord Stanley parade this year. Their defensive squad still missing a legitimate #1 defenseman and I don't think that the likes of Souray or Markov are fitting the bill. This defensive corps is OK but speedy team will be able to create lots of opportunities against them. The key against Montreal is to pressurse those defensemans who had the tendency to panic under pressure. The goaltending is a question mark even with the success of Huet last season. Huet was a no show before last season and he will have to repeat what he did last year to make the team competitive. I don't think he will be able to do so and Aebeschier is as well. The upfront is loaded with overrated player like Bonk and Ribeiro. The addition of Sammy will add an element of speed but Samsonov is recognized, around the league, to make bad decisions around the net. Don't expect Sammy to change that this year. According to RDS and all the papers, Sammy will play with Kovalev and Ribeiro. The habs expect that the magic between Sammy and Kovalev (in the Olympics) could be repeat in the NHL. Wishful thinking, indeed, if there is anyone. I don't expect the Habs to be better then the B's this year even if, in all the papers and the media, peoples are fully convince that Sheldon Souray is a better defenseman then Brad Stuart... I tell you... Overrating is the key here.

Toronto: Quinn has left and he paid for last season mess. Very few players were added but some bad decisions will haunt the team like the signing of Gill (3 years/6 million) and the signing of McCabe where Toronto had to overpay him to retain his services. In that case, Ferguson cannot be blamed since there was a tremendous pressure from the fans and the media to re-sign him. The defense is, in my perspective, lacking of depth and I expect a very long year from that defensive corp. The goaltending is a HUGE question mark with Raycroft in goal. Do you think Razor will be able to bounce back with a defensive corp worst then what he had in Boston? You can toss a coin on that one. The upfront is very similar to last year except for the addition of Peca. The leafs have to find a player to play with Sundin because O'neill didn't fit the bill, right now. The season could be very long for Leafs fans and I expect John ferguson to be fired if things are not turning around which I highly doubt.

Boston: The most pro-active team this summer. They add Chara and Savard as their new high profile players. They addressed the depth of the team by signing Donovan, York, Dempsey and Mowers. The arrival of Savard will bring to the team a well needed scoring 2nd line. If Kessel make the team, it will be very intesresting to see what kind of chemistry will develop between those 3 guys. The success of the team will depend on the production of that line. The line of Bergeron, Boyes and Sturm will be a permanent threat, night in, night out and the third line composed by Primeau-Axelsson-Donovan should be very good in their role. The defensive squad have finally a legitmate #1 defenseman and they have one of the best. The arrival of Chara will stabilise the squad, remove the pressure of Alberts and Jurcina, and add leadership to a squad that was lacking of that, last year. The signing of Dempsey and York is good since it will permit to Alberts, Jurcina, and Mark Stuart to have to time to really focus on their developement. The question mark is definitely in the net where Toivonen show great skills and composure that he showed last year. The next question is: Will he will be able to repeat?Thomas proved last season that he can play in the NHL but it's always the same thing about Thomas: Which Thomas will be in the front of the net in that particular game. Do it will the stunning Tim saving the day save after save or the other Tim who can make a pass a goal from the red line. The same old question regarding Thomas is the same old question that prevent him to be a legitimate #1 goaltender in this league.

When you look at the division, the B's is the most improved team. The top teams will stay at the top but for the rest, it could be anyone's ball game. Therefore, here's my standing for the next season in the Northeast Division.

1- Buffalo
2- Ottawa
3-Boston
4-Montreal
5- Toronto

B's Get Whooped by Devils

5-0 is your final result. But don't be surprised, since Dave Lewis already stated that he will play a lot the young players of the team for the next 3 games (New-Jersey game included).

Matt's Take: Once again, penalties were an issue this game. The Bruins will need to crack down on penalties this season if they want to be successful. Brookbank looked great and provided a spark with his two fights against old pal Dan LaCouture. Toivonen looked a little shakey in his debut, but that is just rust. Sigalet didn't look to good, but he will be in Providence this season. I wouldn't be surprised to see Chiarelli look into a veteren backup if the goaltending doesn't improve in the preaseason. The offense didn't get many oppurtunites, and with Kessel and Savard not playing, that is a big reason why. York, Boyes and Bergy wore the A's for this game. Billy Tibbets was looking very good out there today, and I honestly think he has a chance at making this team. Bottom line: Don't take much from this game.

Game Update

Devils 2, Bruins 0 after one period. Not the best way to start off the new year, but see if we can make a comeback.

Top 10 Contract Year Guys

From TSN,

It's not a coincidence that players often have their best seasons just before their contracts are up. Fantasy fanatics take note -- the following is a list of players who are primed for big seasons because they will be signing new contracts after the 2006-2007 campaign.

1. Keith Tkachuk, LW, St. Louis Blues
Age: 34
2006-07 Salary: $3.8 million
After avoiding a potential guest spot on the Biggest Loser, Tkachuk should put up big numbers and the potential for another fat raise is on the horizon.

05-06 stats=15 g, 21 p, 36 points

2. Ladislav Nagy, LW, Phoenix Coyotes
Age: 27
2006-07 Salary: $3.0 million
Nagy's ascent to stardom gets somewhat buried in the Arizona Desert, but another point a game season will cost the Coyotes a hefty sum.

05-06 stats=15 g, 41 a=56 points

3. Chris Drury, C, Buffalo Sabres
Age: 30
2006-07 Salary: $3.154 million
Coming off his first 30-goal campaign since college, this ultimate winner will be a huge asset on the open market with a big season.

05-06 stats=30 g, 37 a=67 points

4. Mike Knuble, RW, Phladelphia Flyers
Age: 34
2006-07 Salary: $1.52 million
Another year alongside Forsberg should vault Knuble to the top of the list for teams desperate for goal scoring come early July.

05-06 stats=34 g, 31 a=65 points

5. Ryan Smyth, LW, Edmonton Oilers
Age: 30
2006-07 Salary: $3.5 million
After playing for well below market value a good portion of his career, a big year could finally net Captain Canada a big payday.

05-06 stats=36 g, 30 a, 66 points

6. Fredrik Modin, LW, Columbus Blue Jackets
Age: 31
2006-07 Salary: $2.204
Another 30-goal season while leading the Blue Jackets to the playoffs should make Modin one of the most sought after UFAs on the open market next season.

05-06 stats=31 g, 23 a, 54 points

7. Pavel Datsyuk, C, Detroit Red Wings
Age: 28
2006-07 Salary: $3.9 million
The torch has been passed in Motown and with back-to-back big years under his belt, Datsyuk could be a prime candidate for the next long term deal in Detroit.

05-06 stats=28 g, 59 a=87 points

8. Peter Forsberg, C, Philadelphia Flyers
Age: 33
2006-07 Salary: $5.75 million
He's already making big money, but should Forsberg stay healthy and continue to perform at an elite level for an entire season, there is no telling what his market value will be - if he doesn't retire.

05-06 stats=19 g, 56 a, 75 points

9. Jere Lehtinen, RW, Dallas Stars
Age: 33
2006-07 Salary: $2.774 million
Perhaps the most underrated player in the league, Lehtinen will command huge dollars with another 30-goal season to complement his stellar all-around game.

05-06 stats=33 g, 19 a, 52 points

UPDATE: Lehtinen signed a 2 year contract extension worth 8 million dollars yesterday.

10. Darcy Tucker, RW, Toronto Maple Leafs
Age: 31
2006-07 Salary: $1.596 million
Tucker is an extremely valuable team player, but with the newly added dimension of goal scoring, his value on the open market will profit.

05-06 stats=28 g, 33 a, 61 points

Honorable Mentions

Marco Sturm, Boston Bruins ($2.1 million) - As a member of one of the best young lines in hockey, Sturm's stock will rise dramatically heading into a free agent season.
Bill Guerin, St. Louis Blues ($2 million) - After sustaining an off-season buyout, nobody screams big season quite like a Bill Guerin when facing a contract year.
Tomas Holmstrom, Detroit Red Wings ($1.5 million) - With an expanded offensive role now in the cards, Holmstrom's value will skyrocket in the off-season.

Jagr Named Captain

Jaromir Jagr has been named captain of the New York Rangers. He will be the first real captain since Mark Messier retired.

*Great for Jaromir. This guy derserves it. People were doubting him coming into the season, and he showed them up.

Top 10 Best Buys

From TSN,

In the salary-capped NHL, owners and general managers are always looking for that balance between on-ice talent and fiscal responsibility. Who puts forth the best contributions while pulling in a paycheck that doesn't take up too much of the cap? TSN.ca lists ten NHLers who offer the bang for under a million bucks this season. The criteria: the player must have played at least five seasons in the professional hockey (including AHL, ECHL, etc.) and make $900,000 or less.

FORWARDS

1. Andrew Brunette, LW, Colorado Avalanche
Age: 33
2006-07 Salary: $850,000
Over the last three seasons, no one has played more games in the National Hockey League than Brunette. With 24 goals last year and a chance to ride shotgun this year on the top line with Joe Sakic, Brunette is posed for another big year.

05-06 stats=24 g, 39 a, 63 points

2. Alexei Ponikarovsky, LW, Toronto Maple Leafs
Age: 26
2006-07 Salary: $725,000
After registering a career high in goals, points, games played and penalty minutes last season, 'Pony' appears to have found his stride. He was also a +15 for a team that struggled for stretches. Mats Sundin needs a dependable winger at his side, and Ponikarovsky could be the answer.

05-06 stats=21 g, 17 a, 38 points

3. Antti Laaksonen, W, Colorado Avalanche
Age: 32
2006-07 Salary: $684,000
One of the most versatile players in the league, Laaksonen does his best work in his own zone with good positioning and penalty-killing. His superb skating and ability to score in the clutch (four game-winning goals last season) make him a huge bargain this year.

05-06 stats=16 g, 18 a, 34 points

4. Derek Armstrong, C, Los Angeles Kings
Age: 33
2006-07 Salary: $760,000
A veteran of 10 National Hockey League seasons, 'Army' provides good secondary scoring and a strong veteran presence. He hit career highs in assists and points last year, and should compliment the Kings' young core of forwards well.

05-06 stats=13 g, 28 a, 41 points

5. Jason Chimera, LW, Columbus Blue Jackets
Age: 27
2006-07 Salary: $750,000
Chimera finished fourth in team goal-scoring with 17 markers. While that makes for a solid season, it was also five more than the $6 million man Sergei Fedorov. With the team facing a season without sniper Nikolai Zherdev, the team will count on him for his blinding speed and scoring.

05-06 stats=17 g, 13 a, 30 points


Defenseman

1. Sean Hill, D, New York IslandersAge: 36
2006-07 Salary: $600,000
It will take a while to know whether or not the Islanders get their bang for the buck on Rick DiPietro's 15-year, $67.5 million contract. But the team can use that time to admire Sean Hill's value to the club. With over 750 NHL games under his belt, $600K for a steady, stay at home blueliner averaging 20 minutes a game is a price worth paying.

05-06 stats=2 g, 18 a, 20 points

2. Steve McCarthy, D, Atlanta Thrashers
Age: 25
2006-07 Salary: $775,000
The young defenceman had just five goals in his first 185 NHL games, but it only took him 16 games in a Thrashers uniform to net seven last season. Atlanta needs blueliners who can help generate offence, and having McCarthy as a potential top point man would make him a steal.

05-06 stats=9 g, 7 a, 16 points

3. Francois Beauchemin, D, Anaheim Ducks
Age: 26
2006-07 Salary: $500,000
His ice will diminish with the arrival of Chirs Pronger this season, but Beauchemin is still a huge component in one of the league's best defensive corps. He was second among Anaheim's blueliners in scoring last year and his performance in last spring's playoffs raised a lot of eyebrows.

05-06 stats=8 g, 28 a, 36 points

4. Kurtis Foster, D, Minnesota Wild
Age: 24
2006-07 Salary: $775,000
Foster is already a complete package on Jacques Lemaire's blueline. He led the Wild defence in scoring with 28 points despite playing only 58 games and is the team's biggest, most imposing defender at 6-5 and 240 pounds.

05-06 stats=10 g, 18 a, 28 points

Goalies

1. Dominik Hasek, G, Detroit Red Wings
Age: 39
2006-07 Salary: $750,000
This year is all about proving your worth, and if Hasek performs anywhere near his past levels, this could be the steal of the year. He was the classic Dominator last year going into the Olympic break.

05-06 stats=28 W, 1o L, OTL 4, 2.09 GAA, .925 SV %

Official Bruins Preview from TSN.ca

Offseason Moves: Acquired right wing Petr Tenkrat from the Toronto Maple Leafs for a 2006 seventh-round pick; acquired goaltender Tuukka Rask from the Toronto Maple Leafs for goaltender Andrew Raycroft; acquired defenceman Paul Mara and a conditional third-round pick in either 2007 or 2008 from the Phoenix Coyotes for defenceman Nick Boynton and a 2007 fourth-round pick; signed defenceman Zdeno Chara, who had been with the Ottawa Senators, to a five-year contract; signed centre Marc Savard, who had been with the Atlanta Thrashers, to a four-year contract; agreed to terms with right wing Shean Donovan, who had been with the Calgary Flames, on a two-year contract; agreed to terms with centre Mark Mowers, who had been with the Detroit Red Wings, on a two-year contract; agreed to terms with goaltender Brian Finley, who had been with the Nashville Predators; agreed to terms with defenceman Bobby Allen, who had been with the New Jersey Devils; agreed to terms with left wing Nate DiCasmirro, who had been with the Edmonton Oilers; agreed to terms with left wing Dennis Packard, who had been with the Tampa Bay Lightning; agreed to terms with defenceman Wade Brookbank, who had been with the Vancouver Canucks; agreed to terms with left wing Jeff Hoggan, who had been with the St. Louis Blues; agreed to terms with defenceman Jason York, who had been in Switzerland.

Goaltending: At 32 years of age, Tim Thomas turned a lot of heads while playing in goal for the struggling Bruins. He had an impressive .917 save percentage in 38 games last year, and kept Boston competitive in every game he started. His new three-year contract ensures that he will get the chance to make a difference again, and also buys time for the Bruins' younger goalies to develop more. Hannu Toivonen is only 22 and is still eligible for the Calder this season, while Tuukka Rask is a season or two away from getting mainstay consideration.

Defence: The Bruins got a lot bigger and a lot more intimidating with the addition of Zdeno Chara, who signed a five-year, $37.5 million contract over the summer. With his renowned size and physical play, there aren't many players capable of handling him in his own zone. Thomas and Toivonen's work load will be just a little bit lighter with the 6-foot-9 giant working the corners and clearing the front of the net. Chara's presence rounds out a solid defence that includes point men Brad Stuart and new arrival Paul Mara, as well as big defensive blueliners Andrew Alberts, Milan Jurcina and Wade Brookbank. Mark Stuart spent much of last season with Providence of the AHL last season, and played well enough to earn a call up down the stretch. He's not considered to be a big point-producer, but can skate well on the rush and plays effectively in a physical game as a shut down man.

Forwards: For all the talk about trading away top-liners Joe Thornton and Sergei Samsonov last season, the Bruins' acquisition of Marco Sturm from the Sharks gives the team a new and effective No. 1 unit. The line of Sturm, Patrice Bergeron and Brad Boyes gelled incredibly well last season, and their combination of speed, playmaking and scoring should make them an everyday threat. The Bruins also improved in bolstering their second line, with free agent Marc Savard (97 points last season) likely playing alongside Glen Murray and P.J. Axelsson. Shean Donovan and Mark Mowers give Boston some much-needed experience and character on the third and fourth lines.

Welcome to the NHL: Phil Kessel was the best pure scorer available in June's Entry Draft and appears to be ready to start his career in the National Hockey League. He has great game-breaking ability, with great speed and hands. With Bergeron and Savard taking the top two centre positions, Kessel will start on the third or fourth line or be put on the wing.

He Said It: "I was excited. I was surprised, but I was excited." - Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli, who was still under contract with the Ottawa Senators when interim GM Jeff Gorton signed free agent defenceman Zdeno Chara.

2005-06 Finish: 29-37-16, 13th East
General Manager: Peter Chiarelli (1st Season)
Head Coach: Dave Lewis (1st Season)
2005-06 Goals For: 230 2005-06
Goals Against: 266 2005-06
Power Play: 14.8% (25th) 2005-06
Penalty Killing: 83.7% (10th)
Points Leader: Patrice Bergeron (73)
Goals Leader: Patrice Bergeron (31)
Assists Leader: Brad Boyes (43)

Official Bruins Preview from NHL.com

Work in progress for Bruins

Analysis by Phil Coffey NHL.comSept. 16, 2006

Intro

After a 29-37-16 season that profoundly disappointed just about everyone in New England, a substantial rebuilding program has taken shape with the Bruins.

It all began with the controversial trade that sent center Joe Thornton to great success with the San Jose Sharks. That was followed by Sergei Samsonov being swapped at the trade deadline. Then GM Mike O'Connell and coach Mike Sullivan were let go.

Harry Sinden, the longtime team president, took on an advisory role, paving the way for new GM Peter Chiarelli and coach Dave Lewis to put their stamps on the club.

The Bruins were movers and shakers in the free-agent market, pulling the plum defenseman -- Zdeno Chara ? and a top playmaker -- Marc Savard -- to Boston. The Bruins also signed veteran winger Shean Donovan and Mark Mowers from Detroit.

Defenseman Paul Mara was acquired in a deal with Phoenix for Nick Boynton and goalie Andrew Raycroft was swapped to Toronto for goaltending prospect Tuukka Rask. A host of players who finished the 2005-06 season with Boston were not brought back, including Travis Green, Shawn McEachern, Hal Gill, Brad Isbister.
The Bruins also opted to sign their 2006 first-round pick, center Phil Kessel, tossing him into the mix for a job this season.

So, lots of new faces are on hand to be integrated into the mix, which may not be welcomed news to Bruins fans, who saw additions like Alexei Zhamnov, Brian Leetch and others fall far short of the mark in 2005-06.

2005-06 Record: 29-37-16, 5th Northeast

Who's In: D Bobby Allen, D Zdeno Chara, W Chris Collins, D Nathan Dempsey, D Nate DiCasmirro, G Brian Finley, D Paul Mara, C Marc Savard, RW Shean Donovan, C Mark Mowers, C Phil Kessel, G Tuukka Rask, RW Petr Tenkrat, W T.J. Trevelyan, D Jason York

Who's Out: D Nick Boynton, RW Mariusz Czerkawski, D Hal Gill, C Travis Green, C Ben Guite, W Brad Isbister, RW Pat Leahy, D Ian Moran, W Eric Nicklaus, G Andrew Raycroft, C Marty Reasoner, D Jiri Slegr, D David Tanabe

2005-06 Leading Scorers:Patrice Bergeron (31-42-73), Brad Boyes (26-43-69), Marco Sturm (29-30-59), Glen Murray (24-29-53) Brad Stuart (12-31-43)

2005-06 Goaltending Leaders:Tim Thomas 12-13-10, 2.77 GAA, 38 appearances, .917 save percentage, 1 shutout; Hannu Toivonen 9-5-4, 2.63 GAA, 20 appearances, .914 save percentage, 1 shutout

Goalies

Who's No. 1?

Hannu Toivonen will be given every opportunity to seize the top job this season. Selected 29th overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, he has been brought along slowly by the Bruins.

Two seasons in the American Hockey League led to his arrival in Boston for 20 appearances last season, where Toivonen was 9-5-4 with a 2.63 goals-against average and .914 save percentage.

In the AHL, Toivonen got the Providence Bruins into the Calder Cup semifinals in 2004-05 and showed some veteran moxie along the way. He is primarily a butterfly goalie, like Patrick Roy if you need a refresher.
Toivonen has all the tools to become an excellent NHL goalie. He skates well and has shown excellent balance and a smoothness in how he goes about things in the crease.

He also has been adept at learning the North American game as he has progressed, becoming more and more fluent in facing NHL-type shooters.

Who's No. 1?

Hannu Toivonen will be given every opportunity to seize the top job this season. Selected 29th overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, he has been brought along slowly by the Bruins.

Two seasons in the American Hockey League led to his arrival in Boston for 20 appearances last season, where Toivonen was 9-5-4 with a 2.63 goals-against average and .914 save percentage.

In the AHL, Toivonen got the Providence Bruins into the Calder Cup semifinals in 2004-05 and showed some veteran moxie along the way. He is primarily a butterfly goalie, like Patrick Roy if you need a refresher.
Toivonen has all the tools to become an excellent NHL goalie. He skates well and has shown excellent balance and a smoothness in how he goes about things in the crease.

He also has been adept at learning the North American game as he has progressed, becoming more and more fluent in facing NHL-type shooters.

Backup plan

Should Toivonen struggle, the Bruins will have no qualms about using veteran Tim Thomas in his stead. Thomas played in Finland in 2004-05 and thought his NHL days were done. But a call from the Bruins brought him back for the 2005-06 season, one in which he started in the AHL and then climbed back into the NHL. In 38 NHL appearances, Thomas was 12-13-10 with a 2.77 goals-against average and .917 save percentage, all in all, not too shabby for a team that scored only 230 goals during the regular season.

The Bruins also signed Brian Finley, the sixth-overall pick of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Finley was plagued by injuries while with the Nashville Predators and has just two career NHL games to his credit. A change of scenery will likely benefit Finley, but he also will likely start the season with the Providence Bruins.

In the Wings

Tuukka Rask -- Just 19 and was a star for Finland at the 2006 World Junior Championships. He came to the Bruins in exchange for goalie Andrew Raycroft.

Jordan Sigalet -- Spent three seasons at Bowling Green before turning pro in 2005-06. He went 19-11-2 with the Providence Bruins in 2005-06 and also appeared in one game for the Bruins.

Should Toivonen struggle, the Bruins will have no qualms about using veteran Tim Thomas in his stead. Thomas played in Finland in 2004-05 and thought his NHL days were done. But a call from the Bruins brought him back for the 2005-06 season, one in which he started in the AHL and then climbed back into the NHL. In 38 NHL appearances, Thomas was 12-13-10 with a 2.77 goals-against average and .917 save percentage, all in all, not too shabby for a team that scored only 230 goals during the regular season.

The Bruins also signed Brian Finley, the sixth-overall pick of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Finley was plagued by injuries while with the Nashville Predators and has just two career NHL games to his credit. A change of scenery will likely benefit Finley, but he also will likely start the season with the Providence Bruins.

In the Wings

Tuukka Rask -- Just 19 and was a star for Finland at the 2006 World Junior Championships. He came to the Bruins in exchange for goalie Andrew Raycroft.

Jordan Sigalet -- Spent three seasons at Bowling Green before turning pro in 2005-06. He went 19-11-2 with the Providence Bruins in 2005-06 and also appeared in one game for the Bruins.

NHL Central Scouting's report on Hannu Toivonen in 2002: "A big goaltender with very good mobility and quickness ... a technically sound goaltender with quick reflexes and smooth movement ... a solid competitor who plays with good composure ... is very focused and consistent."

FAST FACTS
1. Hannu Toivonen is the second goalie selected in the first round of the Entry Draft by the Bruins. The first, Evgeni Ryabchikov didn't pan out.

2. Toivonen's first NHL win came via shutout vs. the Senators on Dec. 1, 2005, the day after the Bruins traded Joe Thornton to the San Jose Sharks.

3. Tim Thomas gloved a three-year contract extension in March.

4. Thomas has played for four European teams, Jokerit, Karpat, AIK Solna and HIFK.

5. Brian Finley really had to hold the fort for the Nashville Predators on Dec. 13, 2005. Chris Mason suffered a groin pull in the warm-ups, leaving Finley the starter and defenseman Jamie Allison the backup.

CRYSTAL BALL
It may be too much to ask Toivonen to take the Bruins to the postseason this year since there are so many new, moving parts in Boston and it may take a while for everything to mesh this season.
This season will be invaluable for Toivonen -- win or lose -- since he will be getting his first prolonged stretch of NHL experience. A process that will pay dividends down the road.

Defense

The Big Four

Virtually everyone on last season's leaky defense is gone with Brian Leetch, David Tanabe, Jiri Slegr, Nick Boynton, Hal Gill and Ian Moran moving on. In their place stand Zdeno Chara, a huge addition both literally and figuratively, Paul Mara, Mark Stuart, Brad Stuart, Andrew Alberts, Milan Jurcina and Jason York.

The spotlight will rest squarely on Chara's broad shoulders. The 6-foot-9, 260 pounder is about as intimidating as they come. He was a mainstay for the Ottawa Senators for the past four seasons and not surprisingly, will be the Bruins' top defenseman. Chara averaged 27:11 of ice time last season and figures to play even more for the Bruins this season.

In Mara, the Bruins have an offensive-minded defenseman who scored 15 goals and 32 assists in 78 games for the Phoenix Coyotes last season. He had 41 points for the Coyotes in 2003-04, but was a double-digit minus in both seasons, too.

Brad Stuart came over from San Jose in the Joe Thornton trade. The third pick in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, Stuart also supplies some offensive pop from the blue line. Last season, Stuart scored 10 goals and 21 assists in 55 games after the trade.

Mark Stuart, the 21st selection of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, made his pro debut last season, appearing in 60 games with Providence and 17 with the Bruins. Andrew Alberts played in 73 games for the Bruins this past season and the club believes he is ready to step into the mix on a regular basis. Like Mark Stuart, Alberts is a stay-at-home defenseman.

Milan Jurcina is 6-4, 235, so he is more than big enough to hold his own. With two full seasons in Providence and 51 games with the Bruins last season, the club believes he is ready to move into the rotation in a big way this season.

Get the point

With 16 goals and 27 assists for the Senators last season, Chara can contribute to the offense. At times, he also has been used to screen the opposing goalie, taking up position in the slot and thus becoming the immoveable object.

Mara and Brad Stuart also will earn plenty of time with the man advantage based on their track records for putting up points and quarterbacking the power play.
In the Wings
Matt Lashoff -- Drafted 22nd overall in 2005, Lashoff had a handful of games with the Providence Bruins last season after three seasons with the OHL's Kitchener Rangers.

Jonathan Sigalet -- Selected 100th overall in 2005, Sigalet spent two seasons with Bowling Green before appearing in 75 games with the Providence Bruins last season, scoring nine goals and 27 assists.

X Factor

Depth. Chara is a bona fide No. 1 defenseman. Brad Stuart is another solid pro. Mara adds pop from the blue line, but has to shore up play in his end. Alberts and Jurcina will be required to step up their games to become regulars on the backline.

Beyond that, the Bruins have some journeymen and prospects and an injury to Chara or Brad Stuart will leave a hole that is going to be next to impossible to fill.

Zdeno Chara on proving his critics wrong: "I got so sick of that, hearing, 'You will never make it.' Those voices, those coaches, have always stayed in my head. When someone says to me, 'You cannot do it,' that's the best thing for me. I hear that, I make sure I prove that I can do it."

FAST FACTS
1. Zdeno Chara is a cyclist in his spare time and often trains in the summer by riding through Italy and France.
2. Brad Stuart made his NHL debut on Oct. 2, 1999, scoring a goal against the Calgary Flames' Grant Fuhr. Stuart went on to score 36 points in 82 games in his rookie season and made the NHL All-Rookie Team.

3. Born in New Jersey, Paul Mara has played on Team USA's World Junior Championships team three times, winning a bronze medal in 2004.

4. Andrew Alberts played four seasons at Boston College. There, he made the Hockey East First Team All-Star squad in 2004-05. He also was an NCAA East first-teamer in 2004-05, the second-straight season he was so honored. In 2002-03, Alberts was a Hockey East Second Team All-Star.

5. Milan Jurcina played junior hockey for his hometown Liptovsky Mikulas team in Slovakia. At the international level, Milan played for Slovakia at the 2002 and 2003 World Junior Championships (2002, 2003) and the 2001 U-18 World Junior Championships.

CRYSTAL BALL
Chara is the cornerstone for the Bruins and he will be expected to lead the team, as well as play strong defense. Chara is going to be on the ice just about all night, every night, so the Bruins will have to be cognizant of getting him enough rest during the course of the season. To that end, the other defensemen will need to pick up their games as well. Brad Stuart is a proven pro and Mara can pile up points, but he has to hone his game to the point where he doesn't allow them, too. As for Alberts, Jurcina and Mark Stuart, they are young defensemen, and young defensemen make mistakes. But it is important for them to get the necessary minutes to take their games to the next level.

Forwards

Lining up

The whole "new look" concept continues among the Bruins' forwards, too. Joe Thornton and Sergei Samsonov, the faces of the franchise for so long, have given way to Patrice Bergeron and Brad Boyes and Marc Savard.
Bergeron, signed to a new multi-year contract during the summer, is an emerging star for Boston and will center the top line this season. He scored 31 goals and 42 assists last season and teamed very effectively with Boyes, a former Toronto Maple Leafs first-round pick who has found a home in Boston. Boyes, who also was re-signed, scored 26 goals and 43 assists last season. Marco Sturm, acquired from San Jose in the Thronton trade, had 29 goals and 30 assists last season, so these three give the Bruins a legitimate top line.

Savard, who had 28 goals and 69 assists with Atlanta last season, will be counted on as the center to get Glen Murray back on track. Murray had 24 goals and 29 assists last season and is capable of much more.
Phil Kessel, the team's first-round pick in June, has turned pro and is an intriguing prospect who has dangerous speed and a great shot. With a good training camp, Kessel could work his way onto the big team, although even a trip to Providence to start the season should still allow Kessel plenty of time to work his way to the NHL this season.

The versatile P.J. Axelsson was limited to 10 goals and 18 assists in 59 games last season and will find playing time on either the second or third lines, which also will showcase free-agent import Shean Donovan, the speedy former Calgary Flame who is looking to rebound from a sub-par 2005-06 season.

Feeling special

There's no lack of offensive talent for Dave Lewis to choose from for the power play this season. Savard's playmaking skills make him an easy pick for plenty of time with the man advantage. Murray's track record as a scorer also will see him on the power play.

In addition, Bergeron, Boyes and Sturm also will get to strut their stuff on the power play.

Up and Coming

Petr Kalus -- A second-round pick in 2005, Kalus enjoyed a productive rookie season in the Western Hockey League with Regina, scoring 36 goals and 22 assists.

Ben Walter -- The son of former NHL player Ryan Walter, Ben split last season between Providence and Boston. In the AHL, Walter scored 16 goals and 24 assists in 62 games, while going scoreless in six games with the Bruins.

Martin Karsums -- A second-round pick in 2004, Karsums scored 34 goals and 31 assists for Moncton in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League last season. The Latvian native is headed into his fourth junior season.
David Krejci -- Another second-round selection from 2004, Krejci is a Czech Republic native who has two seasons in the QMJHL under his belt. Last season, he netted 27 goals and 54 assists.

X Factor

Phil Kessel elicits a lot of varying opinions. No one doubts his skating and shot, but he was less than stellar at the 2006 World Junior Championships, picking up only one goal. That sparked questions about his game.
Kessel has one season of college hockey under his belt, scoring 18 goals and 33 assists in 39 games for the University of Minnesota. That may not be enough preparation for the pro game, but the NHL may provide just the environment Kessel needs to succeed.

Brad Boyes on the Bruins resigning Patrice Bergeron: "Patty's one of our best players and getting him signed was the biggest move. Signing Chara and Savard and all the other things they did were huge, but this was the biggest thing they had to do for now and for the future. He's our best player and our youngest player and he's only getting better."

FAST FACTS
1. Playing for Providence during the lockout really benefited Patrice Bergeron's game. He scored 21 goals and 40 assists in 68 AHL games and then enjoyed an excellent 2005-06 NHL season, scoring 31 goals and 42 assists.

2. Brad Boyes also played for Providence during the lockout and starred, scoring 33 goals and 42 assists. Last season, he emerged at the NHL level with 26 goals and 43 assists.

3. Marco Sturm's production was lost in the shuffle once he arrived in Boston. In the fallout from the trade, few noticed he scored 23 goals and 20 assists in 51 games.

4. Marc Savard is coming off a career season with the Atlanta Thrashers, scoring 28 goals and 69 assists. In 2003-04, Savard played in only 45 games for the Thrashers, but produced 19 goals and 33 assists.
5. At first glance, one would assume Yan Stastny plays for Slovakia in international play. But we all know what happens when we assume ... Young Stastny, the son of Hall of Famer Peter Stastny, was born in the United States and has competed for Team USA on the international circuit.

CRYSTAL BALL
The bad taste from the Thornton trade should have dissipated a bit by now and the Bruins and their fans will see plenty of good things from Bergeron and Boyes. Kessel also provides an interesting sidebar for the season.
The big test for the Bruins will come in the form of Savard and Murray. Both veterans will need to be at the top of their games for the Bruins to have success this season. That means Murray has to score goals and Savard has to set them up.

Savard may find it tougher sledding than in Atlanta, when he was dishing to the supremely talented Ilya Kovalchuk. He will command a lot of attention from opposition checkers, so he has to play through that attention and get the puck to his wingers. In turn, they need to find the net. A good portion of the Bruins' season depends on it.

Feature; Alberts, Jurcina better for the expierence

By James Murphy NHL.com CorrespondentSept. 16, 2006

After missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the third time in six seasons, the Boston Bruins were one of the most active teams this past off-season, bringing in a new general manager in Peter Chiarelli, a new coaching staff led by Dave Lewis, and overhauling almost the entire roster.

Gone are the likes of Joe Thornton, Nick Boynton, Hal Gill and Andrew Raycroft, all only a year ago viewed as the core of the team. Into the fray are big names like Zdeno Chara, Marc Savard and Paul Mara, as well as role players like Shean Donovan and Jason York.

But after rookie seasons that could best be compared to a roller coaster, defensemen Andrew Alberts and Milan Jurcina find themselves back for another stint in Boston as part of one of the deepest blue line corps in the NHL.

"There's definitely been quite a bit of turnover here, but its nice to know that management thought enough to bring us back for another go," Alberts said.

If you had asked both him and Jurcina last fall whether they would be in training camp now, both might have told you they would be lucky just to make it through the season in Boston. However, they battled through and gradually improved as the season went on.

Due to excessive injuries, Milan Jurcina was rushed into action for the 2005-06 season.

"Last year was tough for everyone and at times it took its toll," Alberts acknowledged. "We had key guys like Nick (Boynton) and Brian Leetch go down with extended injuries and a lot of guys had to do things they weren't used to."

Of course, Alberts and Jurcina were just trying to get used to playing in the NHL, let alone fill-in for an All-Star and future Hall of Famer.

"We definitely were doing things maybe we weren't supposed to be doing yet," Jurcina recalled. "It seemed like something bad was always happening."

For the first two months of the season, on more than one occasion, Jurcina found himself in the press box as a healthy scratch, while Alberts seemed to always find his way to the penalty box, then the dog house and eventually a six-game stint in the AHL with Providence. While both admit those were frustrating times, they know now that they still learned a lot from the experience.

"I definitely struggled with the new rules at first and couldn't seem to stay out of the box," Alberts admitted, noting he thought he was starting to adjust, when he found himself starting the month of December on the farm. "I was upset for sure, but I just kept my head up and did my best to improve."

Meanwhile, Jurcina would do his best to learn from up above.

"You just try to watch the game more and see what you can do to improve," he said.

Former Bruins defenseman Don Sweeney, the team's current director of player development, commended both players for their perseverance.

"Look every player, even the great ones are going to have their ups and downs," Sweeney said.
Sweeney knows that while Alberts may have thought at the time he didn't need to be reassigned to Providence, he probably knows it was the best thing for him.

"The key there is that he was able to play more hockey down there," Sweeney pointed out. "You're getting in more situations you may not have had the opportunity to be in at the NHL level and most importantly, with that experience, you're gaining confidence."

Providence coach Scott Gordon also was impressed with Jurcina and Alberts and is confident they can build on the experience. Gordon coached Jurcina for two seasons and Alberts for 24 games at the end of the 2004-05 season and in the AHL playoffs, where the Bruins made a run to the conference finals.

"I've always been impressed with Milan's talent and the person he is," Gordon said. "He's a big player that can skate and he's gotten better each season."

Gordon didn't get to coach Alberts as long as he did Jurcina, but he felt the same way about the former Boston College Eagle.

"He has similar potential with his size and skating ability and I think he gained some good experience when he came out of college and played for us during that playoff run," Gordon said.

Andrew Alberts was forced into on-the-job training with the Bruins in 2005-06..

Gordon felt Jurcina may have had a slight edge over his fellow rookie last season.

"Alberts was an older rookie, but he didn't necessarily have the experience of guys his age, or that Jurcina had," Gordon said. "Alberts was learning more on the go and in a shorter time."

Ask any of their teammates who have played with them and all agree that they can see improvement in the way Alberts and Jurcina play and more importantly, the confidence Sweeney mentioned was so essential.
"You can definitely see the confidence in the way they play and handle the puck in their own end," forward Brad Boyes said.

Boyes played with both Alberts and Jurcina during that 2005 playoff run in Providence and since then has always felt both players had the potential to be mainstays at the NHL level.

"I could tell right away they had the skills," Boyes said. "I mean they're so big and for big guys they can skate really well too. I think they just needed to gain that confidence and comfort level."

Boyes doesn't remember exactly when but he remembered a point in the season where that happened.
"I just remember late in the season, sitting on the bench and hearing guys say, 'Wow, did you see that? These kids are going to be good.' They were really impressing us," he recalled.

Now, with a new coaching and management staff, Jurcina and Alberts will try to impress once again. But this time they do so, knowing if they be themselves, there won't be as many trips to the press box or down I-95 to Providence.

"We still need to do our job, but we know we can do it," Jurcina said.

"It's like being a rookie all over again, but this time we definitely have more confidence," Alberts said. "Last season, sometimes by choice and sometimes by necessity we were trying to do too much, now we can just keep it simple and play our game."

By the Numbers

By John Kreiser NHL.com correspondentSept. 16, 2006

Advantage Margin: -61Boston's 205 man advantages away from home was the lowest total in the league.
Even-Strength Goals Margin: -13Marco Sturm, part of the package the Bruins received for Joe Thornton, led the Bruins with a plus-14 ranking.

Special Teams Goal Margin: -17, The Bruins gave up just 31 PPGs in 244 chances at home, but surrendered 47 in 235 opportunities on the road.

Goals by defensemen: 38, Brad Stuart, another part of the Thornton package, led the defensemen with 10 goals.

Goals by forwards: 190, Sturm, the first-line left wing, had 23 goals with Boston; the rest of the left wings had 20.

Overtime Record: 6-8-8 (OT: 4-8, SO: 2-8) Not only did the Bruins not win a shootout on the road (0-2), they were scoreless in their six shootout attempts.

Times Scored First/Record: 40 (Record: 21-11-8) Boston had the third-lowest winning percentage in the NHL when scoring first; only Washington and St. Louis were lower.

Best 05-06 Number: 87.3, Boston's penalty-killing percentage at home, the third-best showing in the league.
Worst 05-06 Number: 16Losses by the Bruins in games that went beyond regulation time, the highest total in the league.

Scheduling Stat: The Bruins may struggle at the start of the season - they open with five straight road games (only the second time since 1993-94 that they've opened away from home). After that, though, they play seven of the next eight at the T.D. Banknorth Garden.

Some Key UFA's Next Season to Resign

The Bruins have two key UFA's they need to resign before they hit the open market next season. Marco Sturm and Brad Stuart. If any of these two walk, the Joe deal would have been pointless. Sturm will likely commend around 3.2 million. Why break up the Boyes, Bergy, Sturm line? I anticipate he will get resigned to around 3 years/9.6 million.

Then there is Brad Stuart. He is a number 2 defenseman, and is a huge part of this teams defense. The offseason of '07 isn't going to be very thick in the d-corp like it was this year. Stuart will be one of the top d-man available, and teams may be willing to shell out 4.7 million for this guy. He has already gotten interest from teams this offseaon in a trade. Stuart is worth around 4 million I think. I would like him to be resigned for 4 years/16 million. I honestly can't tell you I think they will resign him. I hope they do, but no guarantees.

Another guy I would like to see resigned in Wayne Primeau. He is an awesome 3rd/4th line guy. Preferably 3rd line. He would be great to have for 1 million or less.

Stars Sign Lehtinen to 2 Year Extension

The Dallas Stars announced that they have signed forward Jere Lehtinen to a two-year contract extension worth $8 Million. Lehtinen is known as one of the best defensive forwards in the game, and can also find the back of the net. Great signing by the Stars.

Forsberg to be Named New Captain

Reports are saying that Flyer C Peter Forsberg will be named the 40th captain in team history. He will replace Keith Primeau as captain, who retired last week. He will be the first European captain in NHL history.

A Long Needed NHL News Update

Here is what has happened in the NHL over the past few days.

-Mats Sundin has said he wants to remain a Leafs for life, but it is up to his club to make that happen. But with a hefty contract, he will have to be willing to take less then 4.5 million, I think, to stay the Leafs captian for a few more years. Expect trade rumors to swirl around him during the deadline.

-The Toronto Maple Leafs have hired former Leaf, and fan favorite, Doug Gilmour to the front office. He will be a talent evaluator.

-The Washington Capitals signed D tough guy John Erskine to a one year deal. He will provide depth in the Capitals blueline.

-Spectors is reporting that Nikolai Zherdev wants to be traded, but MacLean will not trade him unless a "sweathear deal" is offered.

-Alexander Mogiliny's contract may not count against the cap because he failed his medical exam during training camp due to his injured hip. But he could argue that it happened while playing in the AHL last year, so his money would count against the cap. Also, Vladimir Malakhov, he is currently not at camp, and is still under "suspension" from the team and if his suspension carries over to this season, his money will count against the cap. It will be harder for Lou to get rid of Malakhov's deal than Mogiliny's.

-Former Flyers and Coyotes goalie Brian Boucher gone to training camp with the Chicago Blawkhawks. He will compete with Sebastian Caron for the backup spot, while Patrick Lalime recovers from back surgery, which will cost him 2-3 months of the season. It is sad to see how Boucher, a former starter, is now "trying out" for a spot on the team. Also, don't get me started with Patrick Lalime. Going from one of the best goalies with the Sens, to crap in one season. Same with Khabibulan. Sad to see this. Looks like the Hawks are doing anything they can to get help at the goaltending posistion.

-The Boucher to Hawks has screwed over the Flyers, who were close to signing him. There was talk of dealing Robert Esche is he returned, but not anymore.

-Blues F Scott Young has announced his retirement from the NHL.

-The Chicago Blawkhawks C Cam Baker, 20, will miss 4-6 weeks with a fractured ankle. A tough blow to Hawks fans.

-Habs captain Saku Koivu has passed his screening test, and he says his vision feels fine and is ready to return to the ice.

-The Boston Bruins have sent C Alexei Zhamnov home. He failed his physical examination earlier this week. His 4.1 million will come of the cap, and has been placed on the long term injury list. It is uknown whether he will retire or not. The Bruins still have to pay his 8.2 million owed to him, but it will likely be covered by insurance.

Bruins Interested in Jack Johnson

According to HockeyBuzz, the Bruins are one of many teams interested in acquiring Carolina's top prospect D-man Jack Johnson. They are reportedly looking for a 3-4 defenseman and a 1st line forward.

*What could they offer? Well 3-4 defensemen include Paul Mara (want to keep him), Milan Jurcina, and Mark Stuart. I wouldn't be surprised though if Carolina were willing to take a top D prospect such as Matt Lashoff instead. As for 1st line forwards, I would only be willing to deal Glen Murray. I don't think the B's and Hurricanes are a match, and since the Bruins are stacked on the blueline, it isn't necessary to make that deal. On the other hand, it would be great to get out under Murray's contract, and to receive a possible franchise defender in the process. Who knows, crazier things have happened.

Chat Cancelled for Now

I will not be able to go to the chat tonight as of now, please feel free to all go in a talk hockey, but I won't be able to make it tonight. I'll make a post if I can make it.

Tkachuk Looking Good

Blues franchise LW Keith Tkachuk has reported to training camp, and reports say he is looking real good. He has lost 30 pounds, and is only 10 percent body fat. Last year, he was sent home from camp after weighing in a 263 pounds.

"I knew I had to be better than last year. Obviously I wasn't ready," Tkachuk said. "This year I was determined for pride. I want to go out and try to be one of the top wingers in the game. I want to get back to that. And I felt I needed a lot of work. "

Playing only 41 games, Tkachuk managed to put up 36 points (15-21), enough for the Blues to pick up the US$3.8-million option left on his contract.

*It is very good news to hear Tkachuk is back. He is a great guy, and it will be tough for him to return to his former self. He used to be considered one of the top LW in the game when he was the the Coyotes and Jets. I bet Tkachuk is come back player of the year.

Blues Sign Dvorak

The St. Louis Blues have signed F Radek Dvorak to a one year deal. Financial terms weren't released, but it is believed to be worth 1 million dollars. Dvorak, 29, has played in 746 National Hockey League games during his 10-year career with Florida, New York Rangers and Edmonton, recording 412 points and 244 penalty minutes.

Blackhawks Come to Terms With Ruutu

The Chicago Blackhawks have come to terms with their RFA forward Tuomo Ruutu. He agreed to a 2 year deal worth 3.75 million. He was the Blackhawks' No. 9 pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

Malkin Banned to Play in NHL

From ESPN,

A Russian arbitration tribunal issued a court order on Friday prohibiting prized rookie Evengi Malkin from playing in the National Hockey League.

Malkin signed a three-year deal with the Penguins worth at least $3 million this month after leaving his club Metallurg Magnitogorsk last month to pursue a hockey career in the NHL.

The tribunal ruled that the 20-year-old, who had signed a new one-year contract with his Russian club just days before fleeing to the United States, cannot play anywhere except in Magnitogorsk.

Metallurg have said they will seek compensation of at least $2 million for Malkin from Pittsburgh.

"Metallurg has several options," American lawyer Alexander Berkovich, representing Magnitogorsk, told Reuters by telephone from New York.

"The first option is to seek enforcement of the Russian arbitration award in a U.S. court. This is pursuant to the [1958] treaty for the enforcement of tribunal awards to which both the U.S. and Russia are signatories.

"Other options for Magnitogorsk include filing a lawsuit against the NHL and the Pittsburgh Penguins in a U.S. court."

Malkin's defection has sparked a bitter conflict between Russian hockey officials and their North American counterparts.

"This is pure sports terrorism," said Metallurg general director Gennady Velichkin after accusing the NHL of stealing Russia's best players.

The NHL said it would not negotiate compensation packages with any Russian club after the Russians refused to sign a transfer agreement with the North American league.

Russia remains the only major hockey power not to join the deal, approved by the International Ice Hockey Federation in 2005. Under the agreement Metallurg would have received a basic $200,000 fee for Malkin.

*Well, the Malkin saga will never end. I highly doubt he won't ever play in the NHL, but this season is in major jeorpardy, and if Malkin doesn't play for the Pens this season, it will be a huge blow to the Penguins and their fans.

An Unwritten Rule, But For How Long?

Matt did a good job by talking and sniffing through his sources. Of course, messing with other's teams RFA's is bad. It's like a 20 year old who tries to steal candy from a baby, no?

Maybe the new CBA will change that. Why? Because I think that, under the old system, this unwritten rule was followed to assure a "balance of power" between the large and the small market teams. Without a cap, those small markets were always, money wise, in trouble. So, when they had a franchise player who can make them competitive or contend for the cup, it helped the team financially. But more important, it was the only way for Edmonton or Calgary to compete against the Rangers or the Red Wings. Those teams who had, at time, unlimited ressources to add quality players to their roster. The league wanted parity. Everyone had to believe that they had a chance to win, an NFL like system. Of course, it didn't work, at all.

With a cap, it's almost everyone's ball game. Every team is at 44 million and have to decide where and when they will spend that amount. This system is made to build parity around the league and we can see a bit of those fruits right now (Chara, Dumont, Savard play in another city this year). Of course, that parity is buildomg essentially on the free agent market, for now. But it will becomes a time where the system will be assimiliated by the teams and that will lead, ultimately, to a better "farm product system". Teams will have to produce their own stars. Some will be good at it, some will not. So with a cap system, there's no really an issue to go elsewhere and try an offer sheet because everyone is under the same rule and there's no guaranties that this particular team will be able to sign the player. Look at New Jersey, they are the best exemple of a mismanagement (it was the first year so we will be easy on sweet Lou) under the new CBA. They will have to trade to be able to keep the team they want. It will change, in two or three years, when all the teams will be able to compete. The temptation to win big faster will be too strong. And the tempation will be stronger if your team is at one player to win it all. This cap era forced organizations to have to the mentality to win now.

Eventually, expect someone to pull the trigger. Maybe not this year or the next one. But it will sure happend since the old unwritten was made for the old system. NHL enter into a new era where it will be, every men for himself...

An Unwritten Rule

From asking people around the NHL, and NHL fans, I have come to a hypothesis (science terms, don't know if I used them right). It seems like RFA's are a tricky situation. As you can tell, no major RFA has been offered a contract in this new era. And the last major one to have been offered a deal was Sergei Fedorov when he was with the Red Wings. It seems like the unwritten rule is, don't mess with other teams RFA's.

If that wasn't the case, it'd seem like the names of Begeron, Boyes, Gagne, Zherdev, Kovalchuk, Gionta, Gomez, and others would have been offered deals. Now I know with the recent news of Bob Clarke's offer to Ryan Kesler has sparked a few plugs. Clarke has been on the hot seat, and isn't making any friends. As he said, "I don't give a f#&k what people think of me!" This move may cause a new way people think and deal with RFA's, time will tell. But it seems throughout the league, the main point is, don't mess with other teams RFA's.

Primeau Set to Retire

From TSN, Flyers captain Keith Primeau, 34, will retire Thursday after failing to receive clearance to play because of lingering effects of a concussion.

''Although he's been able to do more, he really hasn't been able to eliminate all of his symptoms,'' Flyers team physician Gary Dorshimer said Wednesday. ''He still having these symptoms and I can't clear him to go back to full activity.''

Primeau, who has two years and more than US$6 million remaining on his contract, missed 21 games because of a concussion sustained against the Rangers in the 2003-04 season.

Primeau matched his career high with 73 points in 2000-01, and led the Flyers in playoff goals (nine) and points (16) in 2004 when he helped lead them within a win of the Stanley Cup final.

He finishes with 266 goals and 619 points.

Sami Kapanen, a Flyers player since 2003, said he ''would be honoured'' to wear the C on his jersey. Simon Gagne, who rejected a chance to fill the spot last season, called the captaincy ''a lot of pressure.''

Chosen in the first round by Detroit in the 1990 draft, Primeau spent six seasons with the Red Wings and three more with Hartford/Carolina. After missing the first half of the 1999-2000 season with Carolina because of a contract dispute, Primeau was traded to the Flyers and brought immediate toughness and leadership to the locker room.

''He was a good player and a great leader,'' Hitchcock said. ''That's a great combination.''

Offer Sheet, the Weapon of Choice?

Just a thought I had. In this era with a salary cap, Clarke was the first one to pull the trigger on an offer sheet. According to TSN, Clarke tried many times to acquire the young centerman Kesler) but was always denied by Noonis. This first offer sheet occur in the Western Conference. So, in my mind, it's not a bold move, at all, from Clarke. I think it will be very interesting, in the future, to see how general managers will use this offer sheet as a strategy to put someone, his own conference, in trouble regarding the cap. In that perspective, who will be the first GM to use that strategy in the Eastern Conference? Garth Snow with the approval of Wang?

Captials Name New Captain

The Washington Capitals have announced that Chris Clark will be the new team captain. He will overtake Jeff Haplern, who signed with the Dallas Stars this offseason. Clark will be the 13th captain in team history. The Caps had been considering franchise player Alexander Ovechkin but the Calder Trophy winner politely declined, saying he wants to improve his English before taking on such a huge responsibility. Clark played on Ovechkin's line last season, putting up career highs in goals, 20 and points, 39 while also registering 110 penalty minutes.

Brunette Signs Extension With Avs

The Colorado Avalanche have announced the contract extension of F Andrew Brunette that will keep him on the team until 2008. It is a one year extension. Terms were not released. He will earn 800,000 this year. Last year, Brunette, 33, posted a career best 24 goals. Brunette has 145 goals and 407 points in 624 career games with the Avalanche, Washington, Nashville, Atlanta and Minnesota.

Islanders Invite Dunham to Training Camp

The New York Islanders have announced they have invited former Thrashers G Mike Dunham to training camp to possibly back up newly signed Rick DiPietro. Dunham used to be the stater in Nashville, until he was overtaken my Thomas Vokoun. Dunham spent last season in Atlanta and played in only 17 games. In 17 games, he put up an 8-5-2 record with a 2.77 GAA.

The Islanders also announced they have invited F Richard Park to training camp.

Hurricanes Invite Woolley to Camp

The Carolina Hurricanes announced that they have invited veteran defenseman Jason Woolley to training camp. The 37-year old veteran collected 19 points, 1 goal,18 assists in 53 games for the Wings last season. Over his 14 seasons, Woolley has played for Washington, Florida, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Detroit, while picking up 314 points 68 goals, 246 assists in 718 career games.

Carter to Columbus

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced the signing for RW Anson Carter to a one year deal worth 2.5 million. Finally we can all rest. This signing could spell trouble in the Nikolai Zherdev saga. Carter scored 33 goals for the Vancouver Canucks last season will bolster Columbus's attack and provide some insurance incase Zherdev doesn't re-sign.

*I think this is a great signing by Columbus. They have improved their offense drastically this offseason, and I predict they will sneak into the playoffs in the Western Conference. The only issue is their goaltending, but if they can figure that out, look for them to be a potent team.

On the Verge to Implosion

The news was sprend faster then a lightning bolt that hit a tree. He did it again. Wang did it again with all the headlines and a huge spotlight on him. For the second time in less then a month and a half he did it... AGAIN. And, of course, it's for the wrong reason. Wang " new managing concept " is on the verge to destroy a team who let an indeniable mark on the NHL.

B's fans, rejoy. Your team is not the NHL's running gag anymore. Improvisation and incompetence will not be spelled B-R-U-I-N-S, for now. When I heard the news, I though it was a mistake from the announcer. I said it's a 5 years deal, but not a 15 years deal. Well, ladies and gentleman, it's 15 years for 67.5 millions dollars. This silly contract is the probably the biggest mortgage a team can afford. There's no serious business man who will engage himself and his franchise in those kind of sharky waters. Let's face it...this team will have to pay 4.5 millions average per year for their goaltending. Under the cap system, it's a costly move. The NHL is no NBA and there's a lot of chance that the cap won't go up that much through the years. So Wang simply handcuffed his organization for headlines, spotlights and history. Hockey wise this move doesn't make sense at all. If anything goes wrong with DiPietro (injury, conflicts), the Isles are in a deep shit. But, the Isles are pretty good in this category . In a very short window of time, under Mike "9 lifes" Milbury, they trade: Chara, Redden, Joikonen, Spezza (pick form) and Luongo. Yes, they trade five potential franchise players. And by the way, Luongo is exactly the kind of guy who can be offered a 6 years deal because you know that night in, night out, he will deliver the goods. The Isles have that guy in their ownbackward.

The second act of this tragi-comedy was played a month and half when Neil Smith and Pat LaFontaine resigned from their respective position for undisclosed reasons. Thanks to this new management idea, the Isles front office will be filled by puppets and " yes " man who will agree with Wang but who will destroy the franchise. So now, people are laughing and B's fans should not. Why? Don't you have a sense of " deja vue " here? The golden way of mediocrity. Here's the 4 steps that the B's took for 25 years and that's exactly where Wang is trying to do to implant and make sure that his franchise will be a sinking ship.

1- An inept owner (Did Jacobs had ever a clue) who is a control freak
2- An incompetent front office (Mister Mike O send me JT pom pom pom) who doesn't have a clue on how to run an NHL Franchise
3- An awful on ice product
4- lack of credibility who will make go away fans and quality people.

Let's complete the third act of this awful sitcom by saying that Ted Nolan, who whined more about the chance he didn't have and that he coached, is in a position where no coach want to be. Having a direct line of command between him and the owner. Of course, it could sounds great when it's time to make some additions but when the situation gets uglier, without anyone to protect you against owner insanity, you're basically done. Expect the very worst for Nolan who will be fired within a year or a year and a half. Honestly, there's no GM on the Island and nobody has bought the " Snow " hiring. It's Wang's team and that's why Smith and LaFontaine left, because the owner doesn't want the Islanders to be Smith and LaFontaine's team. They were "too classic" in their management for a "genius"' like Wang.

Honestly, it's sad. Sad to see a great franchise taking the path to implosion, sad to see the NHL do nothing about it and it's sad for the fans who are stuck with an inept owner who think that "HE IS" the answer. For B's fans, it's deja vue. Let's wish that those headlines and spotlights don't reach Beantown for a while. At least, not for those reasons.

Fan Blog-A View From the Lodge Boxes

By Chris Bell

So Rick DiPietro has signed a 15 year dear according to tsn.ca. I have a question, are Charles Wang and Garth Snow out of there minds? Sure he plays well against Florida and Boston, but he's no Martin Broduer or even an Andrew Raycroft. Should Cam Ward get 80 million since his team won the cup last year? Oh I forgot old Pete owns that club. This contract is a slap in the face to every guy who never got there due. Your paying a guy for his glove and his legs. He's so short if he gets screened he's beaten 70 maybe 80 percent of the time. Maybe this fits there business model but he's not tradable if he flops. Given the lack of direction of the ownership group, that's very likely. They paid Alex Yashin on potential the same can be said for DiPietro, when at times both were booed out of the Nassau Coliseum at times last year.

Sorry for the rant. Now to my top 8 in each conference.

EASTERN CONFERENCE
1. Carolina-best coach, most balanced club in all areas
2. Tampa- Richards, Vinny and St. Louis are the fastest forwards in the league, also Dan Boyle. What can you say?
3 New Jersey-just consistent and with Broduer in goal, the system leads to wins
4. Rangers-Jagr, Shanahan and a big pocketbook will lead them to the playoffs.
Buffalo- Miller and Chris Drury come up big.
5. Senators- Well rounded in all areas.
6. Montreal- Just fast and Gainey makes them better. Koivu and Sammy drive them.
7. Atlanta-kolvalchuk and Hartley make Atlanta rise again.
8. Maple Leafs- Sundin and Raycroft lead the way.

-Hurricanes beat the Rangers in 7. Grit and guts outweigh money, Staal becomes an even bigger leader.

WESTERN CONFERENCE
1. San Jose-Patrick Marleau m.v.p.
2. Blues- Gurein, Legacy and Weight make a huge difference .
3 Detroit- the Rangers of the East and they can really play.
4. Nashville- Sullivan and Vokoun make them push forward.
5. Calgary- Jerome drives them.
6. phoenix -Wayne gets his team to buy in.
7. Denver - two things, Joe Sakic and fan support.
8. LA- tough and gritty.

Sharks unseat the Canes winning on the road in a beautiful series.

I'm a Bruins fan but they're years away in my opinion. Enjoy the season everyone.

F. Kaberle out 4-6 Months

Hurricanes D Frantisek Kaberle will be out 4-6 months after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum. Look for the 'Canes to sign a replacement while he is out.

Keenan and Panthers Settle

TSN is reporting that Mike Keenan and the Panthers have agreed on a fair settlement that will pay Keenan part of the amount of money he would be due from his terminated contract.

Lupul to Edmonton

The Edmonton Oilers have signed RFA Joffrey Lupul to a 3 year deal worth 6.935 million. Lupul was acquired from the Ducks in the Chris Pronger trade. Lupul had 28 goals and 25 assists in 81 games with the Anaheim Ducks last season

Kolzov to Isles, Sabres News

UFA LW Viktor Kolzov has signed a one year deal with the Islanders.

The Buffalo Sabres announced they have signed former D James Patrick to be assistant coach to Lindy Ruff. They also announced the signing for last years 1st round pick Marek Zagrapan to a 3 year deal worth around 2.3 million. They also announced the signings of minor-league forwards Jiri Novotny, Michael Ryan and Chris Thorburn. Ryan and Thorburn signed for $450,000 for this season.

Tom Fitzgerald Retires

Boston Bruins forward Tom Fitzgerald has announced his retirement as a National Hockey League player. Fitzgerald, a native of Billerica, MA, played in 17 NHL seasons with the Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers and New York Islanders.

*Somewhat surprising to me, I thought he had a chance at making the roster this year if he was invited to camp. I guess we can also cancel his name off the list of people Chiarelli was thinking of inviting to camp.

Kesler Signs Offer Sheet With Flyers

Vancouver Canucks RFA Ryan Kesler has signed an offer sheet with the Flyers. The deal would pay him 1.9 million for 1 season. The Canucks have one week to match it. It they walk away from it, they will receive a 2nd round pick.

*Finally someone messes with somone elses RFA's. It's about time.

UPDATE: TSN is reporting that the Canucks will indeed match the offer given to Ryan Kesler.

Islanders Sign DiPietro for 15 Years

The New York Islanders have announced they have signed their goalie Rick DiPietro to a 15 year deal worth $67,500,000. It is the second longest North American pro sport contract in history. The deal will play him an average of 4.5 million dollars a season.

*I don't like this deal at all. If anyone remembers, this same offer came up last year, and DiPietro rejected it. I don't think he is worth 4,500,000 a season. Also if DiPietro doesn't improve, the Isles will be screwed. I don't know what Wang was thinking. Obviously for DiPietro, this is a great deal. He guarantee's he will make 67.5 million in his career even if he sucks or retires. But, if DiPietro improves dramatically, it will screw him over as he could have made more money in the market, but in the end it will probably be better money-wise he signed this deal. What is with the Isles and long long term deals, aka Yashin. Didn't they learn already? Guess not.

Latrappe's Take- I don't know about this one. I was never a huge fan of those lengthy contracts since Yashin proved to everyone that it can be dangerous (production wise) and expensive. I must add, if things don't work out between DiPietro and the Isles, he will be basically undtradable.

4 Steps for a Successful Season

Last year was a bad one. It was a pain to be a B's fan and it was equally painfull to watch the product on the ice. So here's my 4 steps to assure a sucessful season in Beantown.


1- Stay out of the box:

Special teams... We knew it, way before the " new ' NHL re-lauch, one year ago, that this aspect of the game would be crucial to win. Last year, in this area, the B's were pathetic. Of course, having people like Hal " penalty machine " Gill, Ian " not so fast " Moran, Jiri " tripping " Slegr or Tom " let me hook you for a while " Fitzgerald didn't help your team to stay out of trouble. They were slow and quite frankly, helpless, against young and speedy forwards. Discipline was a huge problem last year mainly because there was no discipline, at all, behind the bench. Sullivan refuse, on a daily base, to make some players accountable for the bad penalties they were taking. The result was desastrous since everyone on that team seems to want a piece of that guilty pleasure. The lack of shape was a factor too and it was more evident against teams like Buffalo where the B's were outskated shift after shift . This year will be different since Chiarelli let go the dead wood and the fact that teams knows how the rules will be apply and will adjust their game to it.


2- 60 minutes

If there is any area where the B's were frustrating, last year, it's that one. How many fan were frustrated to see their team lose late in the third or in overtime because of a lack of intensity. In the mid- season, last year, the team lost, at least, 13 points because the final result was a tie or a loss in OT due to a lack of finish in the third. In a conference where things will be more and more competitive, the team cannot afford to lose those points. I think Dave Lewis will have to adjust the game plan and make sure that the team will play a full and intense 60 minutes. They also have to play those 60 minutes in the very beginning of the season. October and November are month where points are crucial and losing them, for the bad reason, can haunt you back late in the season.


3- Beat the conference

Another area where the B's have greatly to improve is their records againt their own conference. Last year, the B's have played, in the first two month, a lots of game inside their conference and the result was atrocious ( Buffalo and Montreal beat the hell of out them ). They basically sunk their season, right there, because at the end, they would be eliminated by the tie break. The B's were, probably, the most pro-active organisation in the offseason and i think it will pay off. No major moves were made inside the conference so there's no reason to see another atrocious result against our conference....


4- Be accountable

Last year was probably one the worst regarding excuses. Everyone was looking elsewhere to explain why the team was so mediocre. Some players refuse to acknowledge their lack of workethic, discipline or committment. It was the good'ol " blame game " where in a game it was the goaltending who let down the team; sometimes it was the defense who crumble. There was a "country club " atmosphere, largely generated by Sullivan's lack of discipline, who made players indifferent to the result. The arrival of Lewis is a well welcome change since he stated at the very beginning that every player on the team will have to be accountable or suffer the consequences. Accountability is the core of team spirit. If everyone face the problem as a whole, the problem will be quickly resolve.

Comparison to Years Past Starting Lineups

'03 (end of season)-

Knuble Thornton Murray
Samsonov Nylander Rolston
Axelsson Bergeron Lapointe
Green/Grosek Boyes Zamuner/Donato

Gonchar Boynton
Gill O'Donnell
McGillis Slegr
Moran

Raycroft
Potvin

'05-

Isbister Thornton Murray
Samsonov Zhamnov Bergeron
Axlesson Scatchard McEachern
Fitzgerald Green Orr

Leetch Jurcina
Boynton Alberts
Dallman Gill
Moran Slegr

Raycroft
Toivonen
Thomas

'06-

Sturm Bergeron Boyes
Kessel Savard Murray
Axelsson Primeau Donovan
Walter Stastny Mowers

Chara Stuart
Mara Jurcina
Stuart Alberts
York Dempsey

Toivonen
Thomas
Rask

*As you can see, the '03 was destined for a good playoff run and could definately been in cup contention, but choked and blew a 3-1 series lead over the Habs. The '05 team looked good on paper, and offensive powerhouse, but the D was mostly rookies, and had little depth. The D looked horrid and that spelled Scatchard to be dealt for David Tanabe. It didn't help that McEachern was a bust, and Alexei Zhamnov was hurt all season. Also, Brian Leetch did play up to expectations. MOC tried to save the season, with the Joe deal, but that didn't work. Late season guys like Josh Langfield and Mariusz Czerkawski didn't pan out either. Maybe they should have resigned Gonchar, Knuble and Rolston when they could have. This season looks a lot better. The defense is revamped and one of the best in the league. The offensive looks like it could have a lot of potential. The goaltending looks a little shakey, but Toivonen is the goalie of the future, and hopefull he will be just that. Can't wait for the puck to drop! '06 here we come...

Gagne Agrees to Deal

Simon Gagne has agreed to a 5 year deal worth 26.25 million dollars with the Flyers. He will earn 5.25 million a season, same as Alex Tanguay. More to come...

New Fan Blog

I am going to try a new idea I have. I know some of you don't want to post regularly, so if you have an article you have written, and would like it on the site, just email it to me, and I will look at it, and most likely post it. Just give your name so I can credit you. See how it works out.

DiPietro and Biron

A few sites are reporting that Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro is unhappy. He hasn't signed his contract yet and the Isles policy "if you aren't signed by camp, you don't play." Well, actually that's Wang's policy. Last year Mark Parrish had to fly overnight from Nova Scotia to sign the day before training camp, which shows how strong this rule is inforced. Anyways, people thought the sides were close, but I guess that isn't the truth. One rumor is he could sign a one year deal and test the UFA status next year. But if he does that he could get dealt at the deadline, and as Ek said, it'd be a hell of a year for Rick and the Isles.

With this DiPietro news, rumors are starting that Buffalo's goalie Martin Biron could be dealt to the Isles. The Isles seem to be the front runner to land him, and Buffalo, even though they sit at only 41 million, would like to ease themselves of his contract. Biron, making around 2.5 million, will be a UFA at the end of the season.

Signings

-The Nashville Preadtors have resigned G Thomas Vokoun to a 4 year, 22.8 million dollar extension (5.7 million a seaon).

-The Vancouver Canucks have resigned Trevor Linden to a 1 year deal worth 600,000 plus 200,000 in incentives.

Expecting the Best...

At the eve of a new NHL season, I'm excited. Excited by the new rules, by the fact that the cap system is slowly starting to give its fruits and by the fact that, since a very long time now, my favorite team is right on track. The next question could be, how long? In my opinion it could be for a very long time. Here's the 3 reasons why you should expect the best from the B's.

Ownership commitment:

A funny statement, but a true one. While, at the end of the last season, the Jacobs told everybody that he wouldn't be "business as usual", we were doubting that (maybe only our friend Stinger was willing to give a shot at Jacobs Jr... ). Doubting him we were because for 25 years, we saw an owner committed to only one single thing, money. What ever the product on ice; whatever the people in the front office, "Show me the money". This summer things have turned around. Not that Jacobs don't want to make money anymore. No, he will and wants more! But this time, he had to do something huge to make sure that the B's will stay a on too of revenues. You have to give credit where it's due. Jacobs promise an overhaul and he delivered. He basically revamped the whole office by hiring Chiarelli.

The architech was ready to work and Lewis, Habscheid and Benning were hired to restore credibility that this organization lost for many, many years. Don't make any mistake here, those people are qualify for the job and when you want to reach the higher level, you have to hire those peoples who;

1- know what they are doing and
2- have a realistic plan on how to win a championship.

There's no coincidence if, from those signing, you see people coming from winning organizations like Ottawa, and Detroit. Like or not, this kind of overhaul that demanded commitment, and whatever the motivation needed, Jacobs delivered and not only in the front office, but also on the ice. Good marketing strategy? A move to improve public relationship? Sure bet. But this time, like no other years, we will have a quality product on the ice.

The roster:

Readers should look for Matt's excellent column regarding the signing the B's made this summer... One thing for sure, even if Chiarelli and Gorton were credited for those signing (especially Chara and Savard), Jacobs showed his commitment by signing a 5 years to Chara, 4 years to Savard and 5 years for Bergeron. Once again give to credit where it's due. There's no GM on this earth who would sign those players long term without the approval of the boss. The best thing for B's fan is the fact that those signings, basically, have two goals:

1- Improve the team and fill a need
2- Give to the youngs players a path to follow on how to lead and how to win.

When you look at the defensive squad and all the quality prospects who played last year (Alberts, Jurcina, Mark Stuart, Lashoff ), the presence of Chara is worth all the millions he will earn. In a long term persepctive, this signing will be a BIG payoff. Sometimes, as a fan, we overlooked the "psychological" presence of a player and the impact that he can have on his team. In the case of Chara, he will bring experience, leadership and workethic to the young D corp which really needs a mentor to complete their development. If the plan goes exactly as he should be, the B's will have one of the best defensive corps in the league in a year or two.

Sounds great? Well, the best thing is to come because those players except for Chara, Murray and Savard are still very young. Look at it, Bergeron, Boyes, Alberts, Kessel, Lashoff, Mark Stuart etc. etc... This team could be competetive for a very, very longtime. Remember the stretch where Ottawa spoiled their fans with a consistent winning team? Well, the B's have all the ingredients of that receipe with young skilled players, a competent coaching staff to develope them and an owner, for now, who is committed to win and do it the right way.


The focus:

Coming from a one year hiatus and having an owner who promised a contender, everything was set to provoke an explosive situation. Especially with all the doubts surrounding JJ's sincerity regarding those issues. Didn't we get burned for 25 years? The result was predictable and all season long, the team had to battle with issues like O'connell who didn't have a clue on what he was doing, especially in the free agent market. Sullivan who didn't have any answers to solve a team who seems to puzzled him all year long and all the controversy regarding the captaincy and the JT trade. All year, the team, the fans, the media focused on everything but hockey. Each week had his drama (Bruins stupid marketing promo), his piece of incompetence from the front office (Samsonov for Reasonner uh?), his number of player on the shelf (Zham-off) and his number of holdouts. Hockey was evacuated and that's why this team was so mediocre last year. This summer could be resume as "few news, good news". No controversy, no holdout, no malcontent... is this a dream? And guess what, you have an extra guilty pleasure...malcontent are elsewhere (Columbus, Philadelphia).

Yes, there is lots of reason for optimism. This new season seems very promising not because we want to do some wishful thinking, but simply because this time, this organization decided to do the right thing at the right time. They decide to follow footprints from teams who have won championships. Maybe that's an indication that finally, Jacobs and co. have learn. Learned that everything has an end. Jacobs had no choice, despite by fans and media, he had to move. He have to put aside his ego and realize that the B's could turn as his worst nightmare. Finally, he gave fans what they wanted the most, a chance to compete, a chance to contend, a chance to win. Something that every organization should target year after year...and now the Bruins will.

Disappointed in Coverage

I am very disappointed in the lack of coverage for the Bruins in the state and throughout New England.

NESN-Never seems to talk about the Bruins unless it is hockey season, and even then, they rarely talk about them. All they talk about are the Red Sox, who are horrible this year, and the Pats. SportsDesk never mentions them. NESN should be called, Red Sox 24/7.

FSNE-Never talks about the Bruins unless it is a major signing like Chara, or it is the end of the show. All they talk about are the Celts (no surprise, some station needs to talk about them, they also cover the Celts), the Pats, and the Sox.

WEEI-Talk about Red Sox. All they do is talk about the Sox, all day and all night. They also go into deep Pats conversations, but rarely do the Celts and Bruins come up. Dale Arnold will go on his Bruins rants from time to time, and Pete Sheppard is known to go on a rare tare, but other than that, no recognition.

Overall it seems the B's are at the bottom in recognition. I guess that is what happens when you go through a lockout. I just wish the Bruins had more coverage in the state. I know I want to hear talk on my B's. Does anyone agree?

My Predicted Bruins Stats

Here is what I believe each Bruin play will put up. I'm interested in what you think.

Marco Sturm 30 G, 25 A
Patrice Bergeron 35 G, 50 A
Brad Boyes 30 G, 40 A
Phil Kessl 20 G, 25 A
Marc Savard 25 G, 60 A
Glen Murray 30 G, 20 A
P.J. Axelsson 12 G, 20 A
Wayne Primeau 10 G, 20 A
Shean Donovan 15 G, 15 A
Mark Mowers 4 G, 5 A
Yan Stastny 5 G, 10 A
Ben Walter 5 G, 7 A
Wade Brookbank 2 G, 5 A
Zdeno Chara 17 G, 30 A
Brad Stuart 20 G, 33 A
Paul Mara 15 G, 40 A
Mark Stuart 6 G, 17 A
Milan Jurcina 14 G, 15 A
Andrew Alberts 4 G, 9 A
Jason York 4 G, 6 A
Nathan Dempsey 2 G, 6 A

Hannu Toivonen 32 W 17 L 3 OTl 2.89 GGA
Tim Thomas 16 W 11 L 3 OTL 3.13 GGA

Bruins to Invite Several Veterans to Camp

KPD of the Globe is reporting that Peter Chiarelli said he will be inviting several free agents to training camp. Chiarelli wouldn't mention names, but he did say former Bruins Anson Carter, Brian Leetch, and Jason Allison will not be invited. Tom Fitzgerald could be though.

I was all for resigning Fitzy at the end of the year, and for the league minimum could be a great 4th liner. Last year he was one of the top PK guys on the team. He also scored some important goals, especially against the Panthers.

*Sorry guys, this post has been edited and messed up a lot. Misreading articles, lack of sleep, and multitasking doesn't help. Please if you think something is incorrect, just leave of comment or an email and I will glady fix it. No one is perfect.

Prospect Writer

With the Bruins having so many quality prospects, I am looking for a writer to write about them and give your anaylsis and track their progress. Please, if you are interested send me an email.

Bruins Interested in Carter?

I wouldn't look much into it, but hey, it's Bruins Rumors and I found one. On Eklund's site, he was talking about Carter and mentioned teams looking at 1 year deals with him, and he mentions the Bruins. It wouldn't surprise me of Chiarelli just inquired on the situation, but I wouldn't expect much to develop. Carter is an interesting case, he is a good player but somehow he isn't going to be paid what he's worth and most teams aren't will to cough up more than 2,500,000. It'll be interesting to see where Carter ends up. I'll keep you updated...

UPDATE: KDP article on the Globe states Carter will not be invited to training camp. So this rumor can be classified as dead. I really didn't look into it, but I saw it so I posted it.

Zhamnov Almost Concluded

From the Boston Globe...

Alexei Zhamnov, the $12 million-plus experiment that blew up in the Bruins' face last season, will report to training camp this week, ostensibly to fail his medical examination. According to general manager Peter Chiarelli, the 35-year-old pivot faces no option but to retire, because of the ankle he broke last season. "Sometimes he can barely walk," said Chiarelli. Zhamnov, who had 1 goal and 10 points in 24 games before shattering the ankle, will be categorized a "long-term injury exception," as provided by the CBA, and his remaining salary (two years/$8.2 million) will be excluded from the cap. The Bruins must pay Zhamnov his remaining salary, as scheduled over the two seasons, and then seek reimbursement via insurance.

My Analysis of This Offseason

My analysis of every offseaon move...

Zdeno Chara-5 years, 37.5 million-At 6-9, Chara is the tallest player in NHL history. He was the big name every team was after, and the Bruins got him. The Los Angeles Kings offered 8 million a year, but he decided Boston was a better fit. Chara will likely become captain of the team, and is going to provide great leadership. Chara is the big name defenseman the Bruins have lacked since Bourque. Chara will likely take up around 30 minutes of ice time and game, and will be paired with Brad Stuart. There are some concerns as to whether Chara can stop small forwards such as Martin St. Louis, but I don't think that will be a huge concern. Chara will provide leadership, grit, strength and overall talent. Look for Chara to put up around 45 points this season.

Marc Savard-4 year, 20 million-Now, this is a risky signing in some ways. Many people believe and well it's almost a fact, Savard only scored 97 points because he was on a line with Marian Hossa and Ilya Kovalchuk. I could dish out 50 assists with them on my side. But that aside, Savard will be playing with Murray and most likely Phil Kessel on the wings. Savard is a different type of playmaker than Thornton and some other centers are. He uses his speed and like to dish the puck quickly after receiving it, while Thornton and co. use their power to fight off other defenders. Savard has been known to sometimes be a pain to coaches, but hopefully that won't become a huge problem. Savard is known to be a one way player, not to play defense very well, but his offensive skills will make up for that. Look for Savard to get around 70-80 points this year.

Paul Mara-Aquired for Nick Boynton/3 years, 9 million- I personally liked this deal, but I also didn't. I thought Nick had the talent to become a solid defender on this league, but he was obviously unhappy in Boston, and needed to be dealt. Mara is a great talent, and at 27 years old, he is in his prime. Last season he put up 47 points with the Coyotes. Mara will be the power play specialist at the point, and will replace the duties Brian Leetch had last year. Obviously, he will do better than Leetch did. Mara will also provide leadership to the team, and will be the teams best offensive defenseman. The B's also have Brad Stuart who is considered offensive by many scouts. Mara will likely be paired with either Milan Jurcina or Mark Stuart. Look for Mara to be an offensive force at the blueline this season.

Phil Kessel-5th overall pick/3 years, 2,550,000-Kessel is only 18, so he, in reality, is about a year or two away from being an NHL quality player. But, saying that, he has tremendous talent, and at one point was ranked 1st overall in the draft with Sidney Crosby. Years down the road, we will be saying, wow what a bargain at the number 5 pick. Kessel will likely play LW with Savard and Murray. He will be in contention for Rookie of the Year, and is known as a goal scorer. His coaches believe he has the talent and ability to become a NHL superstar. At times, Kessel is known to be a nucense to coaches with his attitude, but Dave Lewis should be able to handle him, and Kessel seams eager to learn in the NHL. Kessel could pot around 20 goals, and dish out around 20-30 assists. Kessel will take time to develope, but in a year or two, he will be the face of the franchise.

Shean Donovan-2 years/1,950,000-Donovan is known as a great 3rd line winger, who is like P.J. Axelsson, except a little better offensivly. Donovan is known to go on scoring streaks, but also known to go on cold streaks. Donovan will definately see a lot of PK time, and will play 3rd line RW with Wayne Primeau and P.J. Axelsson. Together, they will all provide one of the best checking lines in the NHL, with the ability to score late in games. Donovan posted a career best 42 points in 2003 with the Flames. He has the ability to score around 25-30 points with the people around him. Donovan will provide leadership and grit. Making just under a million bucks, Donovan will become known as a bargain to the team, and a important piece to the puzzle.

-Mark Mowers-2 years/975,000-Known as a 4th liner in Detroit, he also split time in the AHL, was signed by the Bruins this offseason. Mowers will not put up a lot of points, on a good year, 10. But, as you all know, Lewis was a coach in Detroit and is familiar with Mowers. Mowers will provide veternship and leadership in a locker room with many new faces and young kids. Mowers will likely see some time of the PK unit, and will either play C or RW on the 4th line. He could be like last years Tom Fitzgerald.

-Wade Brookbank-1 year/450,000-Wade will likely play most of the season in Providence and with a lot of young depth at the forward (Klaus, Karsums, Walter, Stastny), may only play in about 5 or 10 games this season. Last season, Brookbank played in Vancouver and is known as a tough guy. Brookbank was brought in to provide grit and intimidate opposing players. Brookbank isn't going to score many goals, but will rack up the PIM.

-Jason York-1 year/500,000-York will likely be in the role as either a 6th or 7th defenseman. He will fight with Nathan Dempsey to get the 6th defensive spot while Mark Stuart is out. York played in Europe last season, but the Bruins liked what they say and decided to take a chance on this guy. York also used to play for the Sens, where Peter Chiarelli worked, so he is familiar with him also. York, in his prime, could put up around 30-35 points, but we likely won't see that from him this season. He will play part time duty, and when in the lineup, could possibly see some PP time and PK time.

-Nathan Dempsey-1 year/450,000-Dempsey, like York, will be in the role as a 6th or 7th defenseman. Dempsey played for the LA Kings last year, and put up 13 points in 53 games. Dempsey is capable of putting up 25-30 points like he did in Chicago a few years back, but he will likely spend most of his time in Providence. Dempsey will add the depth at the blueline.

-Tuukka Rask-Acquired for Andrew Raycroft-Razor was having a tough time in Boston, from going from ROY to 3rd string goalie behind Tim Thomas and Hannu Toivonen. Razor was dealt draft night to Toronto, in a deal that the Leafs may either be glad they did, or kicking themselves in the head (aka Brad Boyes for Owen Nolan). Tuukka Rask is arguably the best puck stopping goalie in the world. He is 2-3 years away from making it into the AHL, and he is only 18 years old. As many of you know, I want to trade Rask, but I only really want to trade him if we can get a young, but proven talent such as Brian Gionta, Simon Gagne or a Vincent Lecalvier. Rask will become an all-star goalie by 2010, and once again, the Leafs will be kicking themselves in the head.

Who Is Latrappe?

Hi,

For those who want to know a bit from me... I'm living in Quebec and have followed the B's since I was 6 years old. Ray Bourque was my favorite player and I played defense like him when I played hockey. Maybe not the same level of play but a decent one. Like I said before, I'm from Montreal but I HATE the Habs to death, who are, in my book, a bunch of overrated whiners. Thanks to Matt, I will have the pleasure and the privilege to write a weekly column about all the subjects regarding the B's. I hope that everyone of you will read these columns and will add their own two cents since the primary goal of a column is to stimulate debate. Can't wait to read your thoughts...

-Latrappe

Be-a-Bruin Winners...

The winners of the Be-a-Bruin campaign are F Billy Tibbets, D Dusty Demianiuk, and G Kevin Druce.

Tibbets, 31, is a former NHLer who was charged with child rape when he was 17. Tibbets will put up competition for the 4th line. He last played with the Rangers.

The other two winners are college players.

*It'll be interesting to see if any of these guys makes the NHL roster. The college guys could be signed and put in the AHL possibly. Reading the Globe article, Chiarelli didn't seem to enthusiastic about the entire thing. I would definately give Tibbets a chance, even with his past. People make mistakes, he was young.

Bruins Sign Wacey Rabbit

The Boston Bruins have signed center Wacey Rabbit to a multi-year contract. Rabbit, 19, was Boston’s sixth pick, 154th overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft and is attending his second training camp with the team. The 5’9”, 169 lb. native of Lethbridge, Alberta has played the last three seasons in the Western Hockey League with Saskatoon.

He netted a career-high of 28 goals with the Blades in 2005-06 with 28-28=56 totals and 45 penalty minutes in 64 games and served as Saskatoon’s captain. He was named the WHL’s Humanitarian of the Year at the conclusion of the season. Rabbit has 59 goals and 81 assists for 140 points with 166 penalty minutes in 194 career junior games.

The Lastest on Zherdev

The latest on Nikolai Zherdev, Blue Jackets GM MacLean offered Zherdev a 1 year deal worth 1.25, a 2 year deal worth 3.9, and a 3 year deal worth 6.6 million, Zherdev and co. rejected it. Zherdev countered with 2/75 million for 1 year, 5.75 for 2 years, and 9 million for 3 years. The Jackets then counter offered with a 3 year deal worth 6.9 million, but MacLeean only gave Zherdev until last night to accept it, before it was pulled from the table. Zherdev remains unsigned, and if MacLean can't sign him, look for trade rumors to swirl. Zherdev could also end up playing in Russia for this season.

*Why is MacLean playing hardball? This guy is a true talent, and could complete a dynamic 2nd line for the Blue Jackets. MacLean needs to get his head out of his ass and sign this guy. He's not asking for 7 million, hes asking for around 3! Zherdev may not be worth 3 right n0w, but in a year or two? Is Bergy with 4.75 million this season? No. But he will be in a year or two. MacLean is not doing a good job.

Kessel to Play in OHL Instead of AHL?

Rumor whirldwinds...reports are surfacing that the B's top pick Phil Kessel could end up playing in the OHL instead of the AHL if he doesn't make it as the Bruins 2nd line LW. The OHL is trying to convince the B's that it is better if he plays there than in the AHL. But, many scouts and fomer players are saying he has the skill to play in the NHL this year, and could easily transition to the AHL if needed. The OHL is a step below the AHL, but could be a valuable in his development. I'll keep you updated to see what else comes up. This probably won't end up happening as I think he will make the team.

Summer Signings Look Good

Entering the summer season, every B's fan was looking for more. More quality players and more quality regarding the on ice product. We have to admit that Chiarelli and Gorton delivered the goods. They delivered the goods because this time, the plan was not to fill up a roster fast with a lack of talent. The plan was to adress needs after a reviewing last year's fiasco. This time, they delivered and they delivered in the right place.

The signing of Zdeno Chara was considered a long shot by many fans including my self (but not to Matt, he said in April they'd sign him). But his signing brought so much of what the B's defense lack last year: experience, stability, toughness and leadership. A smart signing, indeed, when you consider all the potential at the blue line this team will have in the next few years. Alberts, Jurcina, Mark Stuart and later, Lashoff, will all befenit with Chara's presence. Chara will eat lots of minutes and will relieve some pressure on other D-man who were put in situations where they shouldn't be with a predictable and desastrous result. This blue line needed a general and they signed the best one.

The offense, last season, was less then productive in part because there was no 2nd line at all. The B's were predictable and the game plan against them was to neutralize the first line. After that first line, production was non-existant and that's why the B's adressed that need by signing the high profile centerman Marc Savard. Not only this guy is a legitimate #2 centerman, but he will help the team on powerplay, penalty killing, faceoffs and will probably re-lauch Murray's carreer which stalled badly since his good friend Joe has been sent to San Jose. Having two scoring line will add a lot to the team game were now, the third line could play his legitimate role which is to neutralise opponent best players. Maybe it's look silly but when you rely on your third line to score goal and make you win, you're in trouble and that was the offense last season.

The team depth and overall teamwork improved with signings like Donovan and Dempsey. Those signings should not be overlooked because those kind of players have an important role to play. Of course, you don't expect them to be the difference night in, night out. But if those guys can make the difference in a couple of games, that's a return on your investement. Finally, the front office recognized some of the mistakes who were made and decided to let go a number of veteran players who didn't match with the new vision Chiarelli had for the team. The release of Hal Gill relieved many Bruins fans who feared each time he was on the ice.

A very good summer where signings were significant and meaningful. This time, the B's did what they have to do. They could do it because they let down their long lasting philisophy to hire guy from the organization. It's good to look at your own garden but sometimes, it's good to look elsewhere and get fresh ideas. Yes, it was a good summer and yes, as a fan, I can't wait to see that puck drop.

Devils Ink LaCouture

Former Bruins tough guy Dan LaCouture has confirmed he will sign with the New Jersey Devils for this upcoming season. He will replace Jason Wiemer who is out for the season after undergoing knee surgery. It will not officially be announced until the Devils have come cap space. It will likely be a one year deal for around 500,000.

*This could spell a trade is coming soon. With rumors of Dowd and others low key guys coming in, Gomez, Brylin, Madden, Martin, and even Gionta could be dealt. Most likely Gomez and Brylin, which would get them back down fairly close to the cap. It'll be interesting to see what Lou does.

Weekly Chats

Hey, weekly chats are a great idea and I am looking to have them, but I am EXTREMELY busy until mid November. I will try to go into a weekly chat every Friday at 7 pm EST, but sometimes I won't be able to make it. But feel free to go into them and talk with other people. I will be holding a chat today at 10:30 until around 11ish depending on how things go. See ya all in there!

An Overwhelming Overhaul

When I heard the news that Mike O’Connell got fired, it was like Santa Claus ringing at my door to announce that christmas would arrive sooner or an old nice lady generously brought back my winning lottery ticket that Iv’e lost on the street. For a second, I was dreaming, but brutaly got awakened by Jacobs Jr. and his praising of Jeff Gorton. Do I get another portion of the Jacobs special plate. A different speech, same old guy???

Well, things were different this time and thanks to a couple of factors, Fans and Media reactions, the Jacobs plan was sent to dust. The fans base was angry and his hatred was probably at his maximum since nothing happened in Beantown, championship wise, for almost 25 years. This time, the fans were not ready to hearthe good’ol same speech as Jacobs promise a contending team for the 2005-2006 season with a disastrous result. When fans heard about the “ Gorton “ plan, they were all over it and the message was loud and clear. Blow the whole thing up, we want a clean slate. The Boston media was all over it too, with Dupont leading the charge against an organization where improvisation, incompetence and lack of passion for the game were so evident. There becomes a point where hockey writers around NHL simply destroyed Jacobs and his “ master plan" which consisted to have 3 players under contract and give a white card to a General manager who was the major running gag around the league. At this point, Jacobs had simply no choice, a major overhaul or a bunch of empty seats.

The hiring of Peter Chiarelli was the first of many good steps and sent a clear signal that the fans were getting something they hadn't receive for quite a while in Beantown: “ We will hire competent people outside of our organisation to give us a fresh look. This fresh look philosophy targeted the coaching aspect of the team and because Chiarelli was not from the organization, the new GM could hired someone from outside and who can bring ideas, strategy, competence, and experience. All those qualities that a good coach should have. Sorry Mike, you didn’t have those and that’s why you got the gate and why Dave Lewis is in charge right now. With a young team, this choice is a wise one, especially when you know how many seasons Lewis spended in a winning organization. Winning, a word that all B’s fans on this earth are eager to hear day after day. This fact should not be overlooked because let’s face it, you learn from winners and you learn the good things. This organization was plagued way too long with losers who only brought a “ country club" atmosphere who could bring money for sure but couldn't win any championship… The hiring of Jim Benning is another great move who will assure the organization that they will be sharp and quick to recognize talents which was definitely a weakness for the last 25 years. This new philosophy will bring a bowl of fresh air when all of the sudden the team decided to not exploit to death players under their control and, instead, reward them for their on ice performances. Make no mistake this strategy costs more to the team short term but will indeed send the signal that players are invited, when their contract expired, to re-sign with the team. Does anyone remember the Knuble-Rolston episode?

The good ’ol Harry dismissal was well announced by Jeremy Jacobs who simply stabbed the old man in the back when he said that nobody was eternal. Do we wish that this statement could apply to Jacobs himself? Sure ! But what can we say about Sinden who had a real passion for the game but became a villain through the years Jacobs. Sinden was the face of the organization but he was the symbol on the worst an hockey team that could be use to make money. Sinden will always be perceived as the "cheap" guy who refuse to pay to get a championship. Yes the man who cannot confront his boss in order to keep his job. A sad perception for a guy who did a decent job in the late 80's.

Once again, Jacobs got away with it this time but did he really? When I look at this summer, with all the changes on the front office, with the perspective, for Jacobs, to see empty seats, do the fans finally get the last laugh? At this point things are very positive, we didn’t hear the name of Jacobs more then 10 times this summer, words like holdout, malcontent and cancer lockeroom are absent. Finally, in September, we speak about the reason why we are following the B’s, hockey. Yes, ladies and gentlemans hockey. It was time for a change, a well welcome change, where money will play on the 4th line. Isn’t a great change?

News and Rumors Galore

Have been busy lately, and it doesn't help the market and news is slower than molases out there. Anyways, until preseason and the beginning of the season, I will not be posting as regulary as I usually do. I will try to post 1-3 times a day, but sometimes I may go 2 days without posting. Anyways, we do have a new poster on board, Latrappe. Great news! Back to the signings...

-The Atlanta Thrashers resigned G Kari Letinen to a 2 yr/3.7 million dollar deal. 1.5 in '06 and 2.2 in '07.
-The Buffalo Sabres resigned G Ryan Miller to a 3yr/8 million dollar deal.
-The Anaheim Ducks resigned G Ilya Bryzgalov to a new 2yr/2.36 million dollar deal. 1 in '06 and 1.36 in '07.
-The Vancouver Canucks signed F Andrew Burrows to a 3yr/1.5 million dollar deal.
-Jason King has left Canucks training camp after rejecting the Canucks contract offer.
-The Tampa Bay Lightning announced former Bruins Tim Taylor will be the new captain of the team. He will take over from former C Vincent Lecalvier who was stripped of the C last year. Assistant C's will be Lecalvier and Brad Richards, who signed a bonafied deal this offseason with the Bolts.

Rumors...

-The Devils are looking at signing Jim Dowd to a 1 year deal.
-The Habs are interested in D Jason Wooley.
-The Canucks may pass on Radek Dvorak, who could sign with the Rangers.
-The Leafs are passing on Anson Carter, and they will stick with Matt Stajan.
-Brian Leetch will probably end up signing in New York, and it could be announced this week. If things fall apart, either retirment or Boston (who has had no intention of resiging him) are options.
-Simon Gagne could be dealt if the two sides don't come to an agreement, or he could sit the entire year and test the market next summer.

Devils News...

It is very unlikely the Devils will be able to clear Mogiliny and Malakhov off the cap, so it seems Lou will have to shed payroll and fast. Rumor is he is willing to deal Sergei Brylin and John Madden. Madden is unlikely because he is the leader on that team. Madden makes just over 3 million this season for 3 more seasons, and Brylin makes around 2.5 million for this season. Lou will do whatever it takes not to deal Gomez (5 million) or Gionta (3.5 probably), but he may have no other choice. Also, the Oilers are interested in acquring Martin. The Devils still need to resign Gionta, Hale, and Martin, and are currently at around 48 million on the 44 million cap. Good luck Lou!

Bruins Eyeing Allison?

Some reports show that the Bruins are interested in bringing back former captain Jason Allison. Eklund is reporting as an (e2) on his rumor scale.

Leetch to Rangers

Talking to Eklund, I guess Brian Leetch has agreed to a 1 year deal with the Rangers. More to follow...

UPDATE: Hearing that it is 1 yr/1.8 million. Not 100% sure on figures.

Koivu Not Ready?

According to reports, Habs captain Saku Koivu is still recovering from his eye injury, and may miss the beginning of the season. More to come...

Rumors

First, the Devils signed veteran D Scott Lachance, so now they have 7 defenseman. They did this after they found out Richard Matvichuk wouldn't be healthy for the beginning of the season. Okay on to rumors...

-The Canadiens, Devils and a third (non-canadien) team are working on a 3 way deal where the Habs get Gionta.
-The Columbus Blue Jackets are not eyeing Anson Carter
-Philadelphia has shown interest in Jason Allison
-The Pens are still interested in Yanic Perreault.
-The Blue Jackets may have to give in to sign Nikolai Zherdev.
-The Preds and Canucks are talking about a deal that would send Scott Upshall to Vancouver for possibly Matt Cooke.

Avalanche Resign Svatos

Hokej.sk is reporting that the Avalanche has signed RFA Marek Svatos to a new deal. No financial terms or length were released. More to come...

UPDATE: I have learned it is a one year deal. No financial terms known yet.

Malkin Signs

Evgeni Malkin finally signed today with the Penguins. He agreed to a 3 year entry level deal, obviously with incentives built in. It looks like the Russian club Metallurg Magnitogorsk is believed to have abandoned legal action to force Malkin into returning to Russia to play for them. But it's believed they may seek some form of compensation. As Spector said, the NHL could offer compensation for Russia, so they will agree to a transfer agreement.

Some News on Kessel

According to Eklund, even though the Bruins have him signed, he could be playig in the OHL. This is if he doesn't feel comfortable playing for the Bruins next season. If this does happen, it could trigger a trade where the Bruins got a LW to replace him.

*NOTE: I know many people want to trade Murray, but if you trade Murray, you then have a gaping hole on the RW.

Great S.I. Article

From SI.com

Boston Bruins

On the spot: GM Peter Chiarelli

Greatest needs: A change in culture, a top-two defenseman; speed and skill up front; signing the team's young core forwards.

Did he fill them? Teams that miss the playoffs by 18 points, as the Bruns did last season, tend to have too many holes to fill in just one summer. Yet somehow, in the span of a few weeks, Chiarelli and assistant GM Jeff Gorton managed to re-shape a team littered with kids, malcontents and AHLers into one that could contend for the Cup -- not this year, but certainly in a four-year window.

Windows are the way of the New NHL, and the Bruins opened theirs with the signing of the top defensive and offensive free agents of 2006: Zdeno Chara and Marc Savard. Chara gives the B's a legitimate No. 1 blueliner, while Savard solidifies a second scoring line that also could feature promising sniper Phil Kessel, the fifth overall pick of this summer's draft.

Those moves alone would have earned Chiarelli/Gorton top marks, but they also inked the speedy and very underrated forward Shean Donovan as the final piece for the third line, shipped locker room cancer Nick Boynton to Phoenix for Paul Mara, and pulled off a stunning deal by shipping third-wheel goalie Andrew Raycroft to Toronto for 20-year-old Tuukka Rask -- arguably the best puck-stopping prospect in the world.
The cultural makeover the franchise so desperately needed was almost total. Chiarelli replaced Mike O'Connell. Dave Lewis replaced coach Mike Sullivan. Harry Sinden stepped down. And in a move the value of which should not be underestimated, the B's swiped Jim Benning from the Sabres to be their director of player personnel.

Add deals that will keep offensive centerpiece Patrice Bergeron draped in black and gold for the next five years, and Brad Boyes for two, and things simply could not have gone any better for the Bruins this summer.

Chiarelli gets an A.

Martin Named New Panthers GM

Jacques Martin has been named the new GM of the Florida Panthers. He will take over for Mike Keenan who was fired earlier today. Martin is the current coach of the Panthers, and is a former coach of the Ottawa Senators.

Some News...and a Rumor

-Tie Domi is close to retiring.
-Radek Dvorak is close to signing with the Rangers.
-The Montreal Canadiens will make a 5 million dollar film, 2 hours long, about their team history.

-A rumor that says the Canucks would receive Petr Prucha, and Michael Rosival for Matt Cooke, Ryan Kesler and a 1st round draft pick.

Mike Keenan Fired

Panthers GM Mike Keenan has been fired today. According to reports, it was because him and coach Jacques Martin weren't seeing "eye to eye." It is surprising that they didn't let it go a few games into the season to see how his signings and trades worked out. Luongo for Bertuzzi was a HORRIBLE and I repeat horrible trade, and then signing Ed Belfour. Loosing out on Chara, Jovanovski and Blake and signing Ruslan Salei. Keenan, lets say, wasn't the best GM but was a good coach. I bet you we will see him behind another hockey bench soon. I mean, come on, what team HASN'T he coached for?

Eric Daze

Various reports say Eric Daze is almost 100% back, and is ready to go into training camp. They said he was the fastest guys on the ice while working out with some NHL players. The Canadiens are rumored to be interested in signing him into a incentive laden deal. I'm not saying the Bruins should sign him, but it might not be a bad idea. Cheap money, low risk, high reward situation. And if he does well, you're keeping him away from the Canadiens. If anyone remembers, a few years back when Daze was in his prime, there were many rumored deals where we sent Sergei Samsonov to Chicago for Eric Daze. It wouldn't surprise me if he went to Montreal or even Detroit. Look for Daze to be the "comeback player of the year".

Weekly Chats

I will be holding weekly chats from now on. I am not sure when they will be held yet, so I am asking you guys. Thursday nights or anytime over the weekend work for me. I can't do Friday nights though until the winter. So just send an email or leave a comment of when the best time is.

New Email

Since I know there are more of those interested in writing, and I didn't get as much writers as I would have liked, I have created an email for the site. bruinsrumors@yahoo.com. Please email me if you are interested in writing, as it will be more efficient and beneficial to people because I know it's hard to plan the chats. So please email me if you are intersted.

Rask Available?

According to a source, Bruins goalie prospect Tuukka Rask could possibly be had for the right price. Now this does not mean they will give him away or he is openly available, but if an all-star calliber player is offered or a top prospect who is even better than Rask. Just throwing it out there that Rask could be dealt.

Rumors...

-Rick DiPietro is close to resigning today, it may actually be done, but it probably won't be announced until Tuesday.
-Anson Carter could sign this week, Columbus, Toronto, Philadelphia, Vancouver and Detroit are the suitors.
-The Devils are deciding whether to trade Gionta or Gomez. Gionta may be more likely since he is unsigned.
-Joffrey Lupul could sign a deal with the Edmonton Oilers, rumored to be long term.
-The Vancouver Canucks sign F Trevor Linden to a 1 year deal worth just under 1 million.
-Devils goalie Scott Clemmenson will report to Devils training camp even though he is not under contract.

In sad news, a worker at the new Devils arena died today.

From SI.com "A construction worker fell 85 feet to his death Thursday morning at a New Jersey Devils hockey arena under construction in downtown Newark. Authorities were investigating the accident, which took place just before 9 a.m. The worker was pronounced dead at 9:27 a.m."

The arena is expected to be ready for the 2007-2008 season.

Bruins File Insurance Claim on Zhamnov

100th post! According to many sites, the Bruins have filed a long term injury insurance on Zhamnov, and are awaiting the result. Looks like Zhamnov won't be back after all.

Going Into Chat Now

Going into writers chat now, hope to see you there.

GO INTO CHAT!

Alexei Zhamnov Back?

As most of you know, the Bruins have yet to clear Alexei Zhamnov's deal off the books. Now it seems like he will never be able to play again and the Bruins will be clear of his deal. But that may not be the case. I have asked Eklund repeatedly, a few Bruins beat writers, and none will reveal the information and will only say, not solid enough to release. If the Bruins were to apply for long term injury insurance, wouldn't it make sense that they would have done it a while ago, hence more room under cap to sign UFA. Could this mean Zhamnov makes a miracle return? Possibly. That would be the worst case scenario for Bruins fans. For some reason, it seems a little fishy they haven't cleared him yet. IMO we may see Zhamnov play for the Bruins again.

Writers

I will be holding a writers chat tomorrow, Saturday, at around 11 am EST. If you are not there, you will have to wait some time before I add writers. I am looking for 4-6 people. I already have about 4 people interested. I am looking for the following...

1) Game by game analyzations with you 3 stars, recap, etc.
2) Game Preview
3) Player news, such as background or a bio. Weekly post.
4) Week Recap, recap the week, opinions, etc.
5) Feedback on recent Bruins trades, signings, demotions, managament.
6) NHL teams writer. Anyone who has another favorite team besides the Bruins, just write news, trade, rumors, etc.

Please feel free to add ideas. I will see you all in the chat hopefully.