Hossa in Boston

Except for the wrong team.

In all seriousness, this will be a TOUGH game for the Bruins. I honestly don't see them winning for a few reasons.

• Pittsburgh just acquired Hossa, so you have to know this team will be out on a mission.
• Boston has been ripping off wins and I can't see them not losing this one for some reason.
• Boston has struggled at home.
• The Penguins will be loaded with offense with the likes of Malkin, Hossa, Staal, Sykora, and Gonchar. Sid the Kid is still out, so that helps us.

I see the Bruins losing 5-3

Back to Business

First off, I'm glad I was able to get such a rise out of people with my last posting. Glad to see there's that many hardcore fans still checking the site. I'm a little more calm now after the win against Ottawa, but a great test comes tonight against the Penguins and new guy Marion Hossa.

One interesting tidbit that Fluto Shinzawa posted on his daily blog, in reference to Hossa. He reported that Hossa said he heard whispers about landing in Boston, where he would have been reunited with fellow Slovakian Zdeno Chara, former Atlanta teammates Marc Savard and Glen Metropolit, and ex-Senators Peter Schaefer and Shane Hnidy.

Hossa said, "I heard news about Boston too, but it never happened," said Hossa. "I always enjoy playing with Big Z. Maybe one day again. We'll see."

Thoughts: Interesting words from Hossa for sure, who becomes an UFA this summer. Consider the B's to have a VERY REAL shot in landing this guy if he's saying glowing words like this about former teammates.

No Moves - NO EXCUSE

As I sat at my desk today at work, listening to every possible radio broadcast, podcast, and any other cast there is for trade rumors, I was waiting for the Bruins name to come across the trade wire. 12 o'clock passes - nothing. 1 o'clock passes - nothing. 2 o'clock passes - still nothing. Finally, the deadline passes - nothing altogether.

Lets just back this up a bit here and throw some rational thinking out there. The Bruins currently stand in 7th place in the East with 70 points. They currently have 165 GF and 167 GA. Their defense ranks 3rd in the Eastern Conference for the least amount of GA. Clearly the defense is playing extremely well and much better than last year.

On the other hand, the offense has scored the second LEAST amount of goals in the conference and 5th least in the entire league. Now, I can fully understand and accept why Peter Chiarelli did not pull the trigger on Marion Hossa this weekend or even today. It is still too soon to give up on Phil Kessel and hanging onto the youth is a wise decision, especially when you couldn't extend said "impact forward."

Now, I purposely haven't read any reaction columns regarding the B's inaction during the deadline because I wanted to have my own opinion and not let it be influenced the least bit. Furthermore, I wanted to keep my frustration at a high until I was able to get to this computer. Thus, here's my thoughts: Just like the title says, there is NO EXCUSE for the Bruins making no moves whatsoever during the trade deadline. I will not accept that the asking price for EVERY SINGLE player today was too high. I guarantee there was some type of player that could have been added to provide some sort of scoring punch or defensive depth that this team could have used.

The Capitals made several moves, the Rangers made a couple, and the Lightning started the day as sellers and turned into winners with their deadline deals. Teams moved draft picks in order to gain NHL-caliber roster help and the Penguins made themselves scary good with the acquisition of Hossa. Yet, in the meantime, the Bruins conveniently said they had a couple of deals in the works and that they were competing against a couple of other teams. Still nothing.

Standing in 6th place going into tonight's game against Ottawa with the potential of the teams first playoff birth since the lockout and somehow they cannot pull off a single move. It is a pathetic excuse and by all my impressions it is an extremely slippery slope to be resting all of your laurels on the slight possibility that Patrice Bergeron might be able to contribute IF they make the playoffs.

Sooner or later we'll get an explanation from Chiarelli or Cam Neely regarding the Bruins thought process today. I'm interested to hear what they have to say for sure, but it's going to take a lot to convince me that nothing was the right move.

That is all.

Who won at the deadline?

Okay everyone, calm down.

Who won at the deadline? I am serious. No one did.

First off, let's take a look at huge names that changed teams.

Campbell to San Jose...a 1st and Bernier, a great young winger for a guy who will command HUGE money and walk at the end of the season most likely.

Richards to Dallas...Overpaid and overrated, and they gave up Jussi Jokinen AND Mike Smith. Bad deal by Dallas.

Hossa to Pittsburgh. Panic move IMO. No extension and they gave up a top prospect, a 1 st and 2 good players. He WILL walk. No way they can afford Malkin, Crosby and Hossa. Hossa is going to test the market no matter what.

Foote and Salei to Colorado. Yeah they improved, but still I don't see them doing much in the playoffs.

The Wings missed out on everyone and got Brad Stuart. Wow who cares.

If anything, the East is a lot easier now. Buffalo is a wreck, the Isles are in shambles.

Look I know you wanted a move, I did, but what kind would you have liked? Aside from the late picks for people, Sundin, Jokinen and Havlat were not moved.

Deadline comes and goes, no moves.

Are we mad or happy?

I am both. I am both. While it sucks we didn't land Hossa, the Habs didn't get him. Also, Pittsburgh will likely lose him to free agency, and they gave up A LOT for him. Esposito was a top prospect, a 1st rounder, Colby Armstrong and Erik Christensen.

We didn't give up Kessel or anyone for that matter in a panic move. I am glad Chiarelli held on to our assests, but it didn't work out. It looks like we had a deal in place for Hossa, but an extension could not be reached. We'll see you in July...

It sucks that we didn't make any moves for depth, like Liles or Bergeron as a puck moving defenseman which wouldn't have costed much.

It pisses me off when you could get a guy like Lapointe, a tough phyuscal guy, for a 6th rounder or something. Or even Sergei Federov for almost nothing. Or give up a little for Prospal. I don't know, it kills me to not see this team get better, but at the same time I am glad we did not panic. I just wanted one more forward to help us out.

Peguins land the big one

Pittsburgh was the winners today. They got Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis for Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito, and thier first round pick for the 08 draft.

It is alot that they gave up. However, Hossa is a guy that can really help out the young players in Pittsburgh. How about this powerplay; Hossa, Crosby, Malkin, Gonchar, Ryan Whitney. Not to mention Crosby will be coming back shortly. Pittsburgh could give up a lot but they are now the front runners for the Cup.

Former B gone

Former Bruins D-man Hal Gill has been traded to the Penguins.

bostonbruins.com Live Blog

The Bruins main page is doing an awesome live blog that gives you a great perspective into what the B's are working on. Here's the last two hours of action:

12:14 p.m.
From Peter Chiarelli..."At this point It's starting to loosen up a bit...Hossa hasn't gone yet. We're not in that mix. "We are in on one thing, it's down to us and another team, and we'll know shortly -- we've been working on that all morning."That podcast will be up in seconds.Angela also reported from Ottawa's skate. A Senators staffer said that John Paddock was not in the rink.She also took some pics from morning skate. [Gallery]Lastly, Coach said that Peter Schaefer is playing this evening. Kobasew is out.And one more thing, just to clarify something I saw on the boards: Patrice skated at the same time as Kobasew and Alberts. But did not interact with them. Alberts and Kobasew did not skate with the rest of the team, either.

1:08 p.m.
ess than two hours to go, and I just talked to Cam. Nothing to report as of yet.But I will say this, it seems clear that Peter Chiarelli & Co. are really attempting to add a piece...

1:53 p.m.
I am about to go in to speak to a member of the B's brass.I would mention that I have NOT HEARD A THING about any Bruins player being dealt.

2:06 p.m.
Jim Benning, From the 2 o'clock podcast:"Phil never got traded...we're keeping Phil. Phil is part of our future and he's a Bruin."Jim also said:"We got one more thing in the fire, here. We'll see how that turns out."

Where's Kessel?

Red flags began to fly a little while ago when Phil Kessel's name was strangely absent from the Bruins roster on their website. TSN Canada reported that it is a strategic move done by Chiarelli in order for him to be available for the AHL playoffs.

Interested, strange, and unnerving all-in-one. Here was Chiarelli saying that Kessel was definitely not going to be traded and then he goes absent on the roster. Why would they make him available for the AHL playoffs when the B's are well in the NHL playoff hunt? Good question.

Caps

Caps make two big moves the first bringing in Sergei Federov to town. Federov is in the last year of his 5 year $40 million contract. They also got Matt Cooke from Vancover for Matt Pettinger.

Rumor is Montreal made an other deal no names have been mentioned.


Redwings are in talks about Brad Stuart.

Olli could be gone to Calgary, SJ, Vancouver, or Minnesota. More than likely gone by the end of the day.

Oilers getting intrest on Roloson and Statois.

Hossa update- It seems like he is heading to Montreal.

Foote back to the Avs

After weeks of saying they will not trade Adam Foote, the Blue Jackets send him back to Colorado for a first round pick in 08.

It looks like the Avs are having a reunion of their Glory Days.

Also Ruslan Salei got delt to the Avs for a 3rd round pick and Karlis Skrastins. The Panthers will probally be lookingto unload Olli Jokinen next. I am hearing Olli for Patrick Marleau of the Sharks.

Hurricanes aquire Tuomo Tuutu from the Blackhawks for Andrew Ladd.

Hossa update-
The Bruins did try to get him but Atlanta wanted way too much for him (according to TFP).

Rumor is that Robert Lang has be traded away from Chicago, not sure where he will land.

Trade Day Impressions So Far

With the trade deadline 2 and a half hours away, there has been action all over the NHL today.

-Cristobal Huet to the Washington Capitals for a 2nd round pick - Wow, get me up to Montreal right now because I want to thank them for making this move. Huet has killed the Bruins this year. I think Montreal, despite probably getting Hossa today, have shot themselves in the foot by trading away what is the most important thing to have for a stretch run, which is good goaltending.

-Tampa Bay improves by being a seller? - Talk about addition by subtraction. Brad Richards was an overpaid player with declining production. In return they possibly get a #1 goaltender. They also hang on to Dan Boyle. It might be a little too late, but I would not be the least bit surprised if the Lightning made a run late in the season.

Nothing out of the Bruins camp yet today. I fully agree with Chiarelli for not pulling the trigger this weekend on the deal for "an impact forward," (which we all know was Marion Hossa). If he wasn't going to be able to extend him, then it would have been a horrible deal to execute. With that said, the Bruins better at least do something to improve this team. I will not accept seeing this team stay completely silent today. At the very least, they could at least add a depth defenseman.

2 more big deals

Washington got some help for Olaf Kolzig by getting Cristobal Huet from the Habs. The Caps give up their 2nd round pick in the 2008 draft.

Tampa Bay makes another HUGE move, dealing away Brad Richards and goaltender Johan Holmqvist for Jussi Jokien, Jeff Halpern and goalie Mike Smith. Smith could be the goalie Tampa has been looking for since not resigning The Bullen Wall after they won the Stanley Cup.Smith is a good young goaltender with a lot of upside. This also gives the Lightning some more map room from the earlier extension to Dan Boyle

Sabers deal Campbell

Brian Campbell is no longer a Saber, he has been dealt to San Jose. The Sabers in return get Steve Bernier and the Sharks first round pick in the 2008 draft. This is the first big trade so far.

Devils deal fan fav to St. Louis

Devils trade the young fighter Cam Jansen to St. Louis for Bryce Salvador. Salvador a 32 year old defensmen, has 11 points in 56 games. Jansen from the St. Louis area played in the NAHL for the St. Louis Sting.

Toronto makes first of many deals

PJ Stock's former punching bag Wade Belak was dealt to the Panters for a 5th round pick in the 2008 draft.

Why Prospal got delt

Vinny Prospal got dealt becasue Tampa gave Danny Boyle a 6 year contract extension. They needed to move someone and it happend to be Prospal for cap space. I expect Brad Richards to get dealt, more than likely to the Stars to help their offense.


Rob Blake will only waive his non-trade clause to the Avs and Sharks.

Barrett Jackman also got an extension for 4 years, with the Blues.

I am hearing the Hossa is going to get delt and more teams have jumped into the bidding.

Former UMass Lowell star DeWayne Roloson will probally get delt teams intreasted are Carolina, NJ, and SJ.

The Blackhawks have moved Marty LaPointe and are looking to move Robert Lang.

Brian Campbell will get moved and word is everyone is going after Brian McCabe.

Mike Comrie will sign a 1 year extension with the Islanders.

Also look for Detroit to make a move with a forward and a couple of D. Welcome back to the NHL Darren McCarty


Source-TFP

Prospal not coming to Boston

Vaclav Prospal was traded from the Tampa Bay Lighting to the Philadelphia Flyers. In return Tampa Bay will receive winger Alexander Picard and a 2nd or 3rd round draft pick in 2009.

Prospal is someone the Bruins should have targeted. He would have been a great addition on either the first or second line. He can play both center and wing plus he is great on the powerplay. He has 29 goals and 28 assists in 62 games this season. Could the Bruins have gotten him? Yes, and it shows they would not have to give up that much to get him. Alex Picard is 22 and not exactly a top-tier prospect. The Bruins could have probably packaged Pelletier and a pick to obtain Prospal, a move that I believe they should have done. The Bruins need offense and Prospal would have been an excellent addition especially since they wouldn't need to mortgage the farm.

Bruins fans: Be calm, Whatever happens, happens

I say this as a farewell until tomorrow. I won't be around during the day, so the breaking trades will be by Jha, or Pekese. Or, just check tsn.ca

I can tell you with a lot of certainty, that there will be a trade involving the Bruins. I can't see Chiarelli standing pat.

It may not be Hossa, but it could be Havlat or whomever.

Speaking of Hossa. Don't believe anything. My take is. If you don't hear a team mentioned for him, they're after him. Most if not all rumored deals never happen. That is why Montreal isn't getting him I believe. Since there is less Bruins-Hossa rumors, maybe it is closer than we think. Savard, Chara, Chiarelli, need of offense. It is all making too much sense. And hey, who would love to see Habs trade Higgins for him and lose him to us in free agency?

Look, it'll be an interesting deadline day. I'll be disappointed if we don't land Hossa, but I'll be mad if Montreal or Ottawa gets him for a lesser package.

To Bruins fans, cheers to a hopefull good deadline day.

Forsberg back to Avs: I can die now

Finally, I can die and be at peace. Peter Forsberg has ended his Roger Clemensesque soap opera finally returning to the NHL.

The Colorado Avlanche signed him to a 1 year deal.

My take: Can't wait until next year when he does this again. Why are players allowed to sign this late again? Who cares, Forsberg is a shadow of his former self, and I guarantee his missed atleast 3 games.

Bergeron Skates Again

For the second straight day Patrice Bergeron skated. Today he skated for 20 minutes after skating for 10 the day before. This is encouraging news but Bergeron is still a ways away from returning to the lineup. He is currently weighing 170, 15 pounds less than the weight he finished at last season. He also is still experiences headaches quite often. There is no predictable timetable on any type of return. If all goes well and he continues to progress, he may try and play in a playoff game, but don't count on it. Just the fact that he is skating is great news for the Bruins.

Sundin wont waive NTC

Mats Sundin will be staying with the Maple Leafs. The Bruins had no desire to acquire him but now that Sundin isn't going anywhere, the teams that were looking to acquire the center will now turn their sites at other targets that the Bruins are also interested in (Hossa, Jokinen).

Here are some comments from him:

"I have carefully considered the team's request that I waive my no-trade clause," Sundin said in a statement. "I have always believed I would finish my career as a Toronto Maple Leaf so the actual request was still a very difficult one for me to contemplate."

"I have spoken to and listened to my family and those closest to me about this issue. In the end, there is no right decision in a situation like this one."

"I cannot leave my teammates and join another NHL Club at this time. I have never believed in the concept of a rental player. It is my belief that winning the Stanley Cup is the greatest thing you can achieve in hockey but for me, in order to appreciate it you have to have been part of the entire journey and that means October through June. I hope everyone will understand and respect my decision."

Bergeron Skating

Patrice Bergeron took the ice today for the first time since his injury back on October 27th. Chiarelli said Bergeron skated for about 10 minutes.

Here is a clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=us80rh2vpwI

Your Deadline Predictions for Bruins

Who do you think the Bruins will acquire?

My guess is...

J-M Liles Colorado Avalanche

Marian Hossa Atlanta Thrashers

Predict Wednesday's Headline

Leave it in the comments section.


Savard and Hossa reunited. Bruins acquire Hossa in blockbuster deal.

Boston MA- The Boston Bruins bolstered their offense in a big way yesterday afternoon by acquiring All-Star winger Marian Hossa from the Atlanta Thrashers. The Bruins send Mark Stuart, Vladimir Sobotka, and a 1st round pick to Atlanta. Hossa also signed a contract extension worth a reported 52.5 million over the next seven seasons.

Atlanta had no choice but to trade Hossa after GM Don Waddell could not come to terms before the deadline.

"I am very happy to be a Boston Bruin," Hossa said via telephone, "I hope I can bring something special to this offense, and I can't wait to play with Marc [Savard] again. I also am glad to be back with Zdeno and I feel this was the best fit for me and my family."

The Bruins were rumored to have offered Phil Kessel, but Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli refused to deal him. "Phil is a great young player, and I think it would have been premature to give up on him. Remember he is only 20 years old. At the same time, we are sad to see Mark Stuart and Vladimir Sobotka go, but you don't get many chances to get a guy like Hossa, so I had to make a move."

Hossa is expected to wear number 18 and will be in uniform Thursday versus the Pittsburgh Penguins.

2/23/08 Pregame Notes

Alex Auld will start in goal tonight. Auld got the victory in relief of Tim Thomas against the Panthers.

Chuck Kobasew will not play tonight. He suffered an injury in the victory over Florida. Kobasew is listed as day-to-day and may play Tuesday night against Ottawa.

Petteri Nokelainen, who has missed the last two games with the flu will play tonight. He is projected to play on the third line. Kessel will move up to take Kobasew's spot on the second line.

Here's the rest of the lineup:

Axelsson-Savard-Murray
Sturm-Metropolit-Kessel
Lucic-Krejci-Nokelainen
Reich-Sobotka-Thornton

Chara-Wideman
Stuart-Ward
Ference-Hnidy

Chiarelli: I am not trading Kessel

Could the asking price of Marian Hossa be less than what we thought? Possibly.

From today's globe...


TAMPA -- Although he's still hunting for a top-six forward prior to Tuesday's 3 p.m. deadline, GM Peter Chiarelli said Phil Kessel would not be part of any package.

"I really don't entertain trading him," said Chiarelli. "You've got to be patient with these players."

With the asking price for Marian Hossa being a young NHLer, a prospect, and a first-round pick, Kessel could be the first component of a trade for the Atlanta winger. However, Chiarelli made it sound like he'll hold on to the 20-year-old, although he acknowledged he has listened to offers for every player on his roster, including Kessel.

Chiarelli denied a Toronto Sun report that had Kessel going to Philadelphia for forward Jeff Carter.

Matt's Take: While it could be true he won't deal Kessel, this could be a bluff. I never believed the Kessel for Carter offer. Carter isn't as good as Kessel. It may be that the Thrashers don't want offense, but more defense. Lashoff, Alberts, Stuart, MacQuaid, and others could be used instead of Kessel. There is also rumors of Rask and a 1st for Hossa with an extension.

Saturday's Latest Trade Rumors

This just in from all our favoites, Eklund:

• "I am pretty amazed at how much I am hearing Phil Kessel's name out there right now. I have heard a few teams that turned down a few offers. I do still think that Hossa for Kessel is the most likely scenario. The book on Kessel is that he is one dimensional. BUT HE IS 20! I talked to a source today who agreed with me noting another twenty-year-old who was given the same label: Steve Yzerman. Now I am not saying that Kessel will be anywhere near Stevie Y, but I do think he is FAR too talented to be traded for a rental player or some of the other player, even to teams Boston could play in the playoffs that he has been offered to according to reports.
  

Spectorshockey.net:

• The Philadelphia Flyers had offered up Jeff Carter for Tomas Kaberle earlier this week, which was nullified when Kaberle refused to waive his NTC. They also spurned a one-for-one swap of Carter for Boston's Phil Kessel. One reason the Flyers would move him is he's apparently a little too care-free on the ice.

ESPN.com NHL Trade Rumors:

• ESPN.com wrote that Atlanta GM Don Waddell has confirmed to receiving calls regarding Marion Hossa from 10 teams, one of them being the Bruins.

• "The asking price for [Brain] Campbell is a player, a prospect and a No. 1 pick, according to the [Ottawa] Sun." - The B's are one of the teams to have made an offer.

Thoughts: Just as the line in Rounders folks, "Lot of action, lot of action." The Bruins are in the thick of the teams looking to buy. Chiarelli did a quick chat on boston.com in which he provided his thoughts regarding the deadline. Check it out here : http://chats.boston.com/n/pfx/forum.aspx?webtag=bc-bostonbruins

Ward won't be dealt; extension being discussed

According to the Boston Globe,

Many GM's have called Peter Chiarelli about Aaron Ward, but he has said that he is not going to be traded, and they are talking about an extension.

The guess is that the deal could be for 1 year.

Matt's take: Now you really know the Bruins are not sellers. Ward has been great adding a veteran presence on the blueline and some timely offense. I would like to have Ward back at a salary below his 2.75 this season.

How are those big-named free agents doing?

Daniel Briere Flyers (8 years/52 million) PROJECTED: 30g, 47a, 76p.

Not bad considering a 6.5 cap hit, but wait...one thing. He is making 10 million this season. Not a bad season, but not worth 10 million.

Scott Hartnell Flyers (6 years/25.2 million) PROJECTED: 27g, 21a, 48p.

Not worth the 4.088 cap hit or the 5.2 million dollar salary. Hartnell was a 3.5 million type player, but not this. Not panning out well for the Flyers.

Kimmo Timonen Flyers (6 years/38 million) PROJECTED: 10g, 31, 41p, -10 +/-.

Need I say more? An 8 million dollar salary, and production of a number 2-3 defenseman. Timonen has been bad this season, actually, one of his worst seasons since 2000-2001. He is 32 and won't be getting better.

Todd Bertuzzi Ducks (2 years/8 million) PROJECTED: 16g, 23a, 39p.

Not worth 4 million a season. Bertuzzi is a nice player to have and is a good winger when healthy, but he is a shadow of his former self. Not a good signing for the money.

Ryan Smyth Avalanche (5 years/31.25 million) PROJECTED: 15g, 23a, 38p.

Seemed like a good signing at the time, but could this be another Avlanche signing gone wrong? (Selanne, Kariya). Smyth hasn't been the impact player many wanted, and some Avs fans want him out.

Thomas Vanek Sabres (7 years/50 million) PROJECTED: 31g, 26a, 57p. For 10 million, not worth it, but there was no choice after losing Briere and Drury (who also make this list). Vanek is not playing as well as last season, and isn't worth the average 7.1 million per season.

Dustin Penner Oilers (5 years/21.25 million) PROJECTED: 23g, 25a, 58p.

Average winger numbers. He is young, so it is too early to tell. It isn't like he is making huge money. But you have to consider the possible lottery pick it costed to get him.

Michal Handzus Kings (4 years/16 million) PROJECTED: 7g, 17a, 24p.

For 4 million per, you have to be kidding me. One of the worst signings in the offseason. Handzus has done nothing for the Kings. Metropolit making 500,000 is doing more than him.

Dainius Zubrus Devils (6 years/20.4 million) PROJECTED: 12g, 27a. 39p. Not great for Zubrus. 5 more seasons of this could be costly for the Devils. Another bad signing in Lou's new NHL Devils career.

Bill Guerin Islanders (2 years/9 million) PROJECTED: 26g, 21a, 47p.

Not too bad, but for 4.5 I would expect more. He is their captain though and I don't think it is as bad a signing as I thought in July.

Scott Gomez Rangers (7 years/51.5 million) PROJECTED: 17g, 59a, 77p.

Not worth 10 million or the 7+ million cap hit per season. Not a bad season, but lacks the goal scoring. One could easily say Gomez is overpaid and like I said when they signed him, overrated.

Chris Drury Rangers (6 years/42.3 million) PROJECTED: 26g, 32a, 58p.

Again, not a bad season, something you would expect from Drury, but he isn't worth 7.1 million per season. Overpaid and overrated.

Roman Hamrlik Canadiens (4 years/22 million) PROJECTED: 4g, 22a, 26p, 3 +/-.

For 5.5 million per, I would like a higher plus minus. I know Hamrlik isn't an offensive guy, but he hasn't played well this season.

Sheldon Souray Oilers (5 years/27 million) PROJECTED: 4g, 10a, 14p, -10 +/-.

Enough said.

Paul Kariya Blues (3 years/18 million) PROJECTED: 21g, 49a, 70p.

Not worth 6 million, but Kariya has helped the Blues and teammates like Boyes and so on. A decent signing.

Jason Blake Maple Leafs (4 years/20 million) PROJECTED: 15g, 33a, 48p.

That is what Jason Blake is. At best he is a 30 goal scorer. Look, Blake is 34, and you signed him for 4 season? Come on. Bad signing all around. What was JFJ thinking? Guess that is why he is out as GM.

Marian Hossa: Go big or go home

Let me get into this Marian Hossa thing some more with you all.

As many people have noted, the Bruins are one of the best defensive teams in the East. Whether it be from a skill point or style of play, that is debatable. With that being said, many people don't see the Bruins going after a defenseman. I agree with that, except for J-M Liles out of Colorado or Ryan Suter from Nashville. Suter would cost a lot, so I don't really see him as a fit. Liles on the other hand, all signs point to him being with a new team and Colorado wants big, physical defenseman. I would try to package Alberts and a pick or low prospect for Liles.

The Bruins aren't going to win a cup this season unless something spectactular happens. Because of that, it would be foolish to send the house to Atlanta for Hossa and have him walk and get nothing. There are rumors out that the Bruins are one of the leading teams for Hossa, and Hossa has said he wants to play here. Hossa is an ex-linemate of Marc Savard and ex-teammated of Zdeno Chara. The rumored deal is a combination of Phil Kessel, a 1st round pick, and a prospect. Which is a fair return for Hossa. Many insiders have said that the Bruins will walk from the deal if Hossa is not signed to an extension.

What numbers are we looking at for Hossa? He is making 6 million this season, so if you can get to him before July 1st, you are probably looking at 7.2-7.6 per season. If you wait, and teams get into bidding wars, you could get up to 7.9-8.5 per. My guess? Hossa is 29, so a 6 year deal with numbers going 10, 10, 7, 6, 6, 6. Or, 6 years 45 million. 7.5 per.

While either like Kessel or think he is a bust, I think he will be a 30-30 guy someday. I don't think we will see him as a 100 point guy or a 50 goal scorer. Kessel lacks ideal size, but is highly skilled. Remember he is only 20 years old. The thing is, the rookie season it is hard to tell with guys, but in the 2nd season, you can tell if they will be good. Could Kessel be like Joe and be dormant for a few years? Possibly, but unlikely. Another thing is forwards usually don't peak until they are 26-28 years old. That being said, I'd drive Kessel to the airport for Hossa.

Even if Hossa is not acquired, he could be signed in the offseason for the reasons mentioned above.

My predicted deal if it occurs...

to Boston: Marian Hossa, 3rd round pick
to Atlanta: Phil Kessel, 2009 1st round pick, Adam McQuaid

Man, isn't it fun on deadline day when your not a seller?

Radio Show Today 4-6 p.m.

For anyone interested, I will also be on the radio today from 4-6 p.m. on 91.5 WMFO. We'll be talking sports the whole time if anyone wants to call in and talk hockey trade deadline.

With Matt in the chat room and myself on the air, you'll have plenty of outlets to voice your opinion.

Vitals:
91.5 WMFO on the radio
Listen online at www.wmfo.org
Call In: 617-627-3800
IM: DJWMFO
e-mail: fireitupradio@gmail.com
http://www.fireitup.bravehost.com/

Chistov Back! Sent to Providence

The Bruins have announced ex-Bruin and draft bust Stanislav Chistov is back. He has to clear waivers, which PC said he expects and will report to Providence in order to get his game back.

Matt's take: And he should stay there. Chistov is talented which you could see at times, but is too inconsistent to make it in the NHL. I wouldn't mind him as a 4th liner or something, but I am not expecting much from him.

The Very Latest Bruins Trade Buzz

This just in from today's Rumor Central on ESPN.com

Bruins hold tight to their assets

Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli tells the Boston Herald he's closer to making a trade, although there's still no certainty of that.

"I wouldn't characterize it as a longshot,? Chiarelli told the Herald. "I'd say that it's in between a longshot and a good chance. "I've had a number of conversations. I haven't gotten to the stage of actual offers, and I know a lot of the other GMs haven't, either."

The Bruins are looking for a top-six forward and are reportedly in the running for Thrashers F Marian Hossa, who will likely cost a top prospect, a high draft pick and an active roster player.

"The price is high because, as I've been saying, we don't want to sacrifice the young assets who are and will be part of our foundation," Chiarelli told the Herald.

So realistically the Bruins are more likely to add someone like Flames F Alex Tanguay, Oilers C Jarret Stoll or Lightning F Vaclave Prospal.

"We don't want to lose those guys unless there's something that's a real good fit," Chiarelli told the Herald. "We're a low-scoring team and that [good fit] would be if we can find some goal scoring for now and going forward."

Thoughts: Clearly Chiarelli is going to make a move here to give the B's some scoring help. It certainly doesn't look like he's aiming his cross hairs at a D-man. Chiarelli knows that in order for this team to be successful down the stretch, it's going to take a guy that can put the puck in the net. The names Tanguay and Prospal would certainly be able to provide some punch up front. The only way I would accept giving up Kessel in this process is if it were for Marion Hossa.

Bruins leading for Hossa?

According to Eklund that is the case.

Since it is him, the Bruins will likely not acquire him.

In all seriousness, the Bruins may be the leaders since Hossa possibly has hinted in signing with us, so Wadell can get more for Hossa than dealing him to a team that has no chance at resigning him.

It'll be an interesting deadline no matter what.

Deadline Deal Predictions

For the hell of it.

The Boston Bruins acquire JM Liles from the Colorado Avalanche for Andrew Alberts, and a 2008 3rd round pick (turns into a 2nd if Liles re-signs).

The Boston Bruins acquire Miroslav Satan from the New York Islanders for Peter Schaefer.

The Boston Bruins acquire Mike Peca from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 2009 4th round pick.

The Detroit Red Wings acquire Mats Sundin from the Toronto Maple Leafs for a 2008 1st round pick, a 2009 2nd round pick, and Valtterri Filppula.

The San Jose Sharks acquire Brian Campbell from the Buffalo Sabres for Matt Carle, 2008 1st round pick, and Steve Bernier.

The Ottawa Senators acquire Sergei Federov from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 2008 3rd round pick and Shean Donovan.

The Dallas Stars acquire Marian Hossa from the Atlanta Thrashers for a 2008 1st round pick, Phillipe Boucher and Steve Ott.

The Anaheim Ducks acquire Vaclav Prospal from the Tampa Bay Lightning for Francios Beauchemin.

The Montreal Canadiens acquire Patrick Marleau from the San Jose Sharks for Guilleme Latendresse, Chris Higgins and a 2008 1st round pick.

The Nashville Predators acquire Brad Stuart and Ladislav Nagy from the LA Kings for a 2008 1st round pick and a 2009 5th round pick.

The Carolina Hurricanes acquire Mike Comrie from the NY Islanders for John Grahame.

B's blow lead, win in SO 3-2

Typical Bruins huh? For the 2nd time in a row, the Bruins failed to hold their lead with under 10 minutes. This time, it was the last minute and 3 seconds. Up 2-0, the Bruins gave up 2 goals in 15 seconds. But, instead of losing this time, they won in the shootout 2-0 thanks to Kessel and Krejci.

I didn't get to watch the game since I am on vacation and I heard the last 2 minutes on the web.

Good to get 2 points againt the Canes, and the Bruins leapfrogged the Flyers for 7th in the East.

Contract situation for next season

In trading for players this season, we can take any salary b/c it is unlikely that Fernandez or Bergeron is returning...for next season, assuming a 53 million dollar rumored cap...

Zdeno Chara.........7,500,000
Marc Savard.........5,000,000
Patrice Bergeron....4,750,000
Manny Fernandez.....4,333,000
Glen Murray.........4,150,000
Marco Sturm.........3,500,000
Phil Kessel.........2,200,000
Peter Schaefer......2,100,000
PJ Axelsson.........1,850,000
Andrew Ference......1,400,000
Andrew Alberts......1,250,000
Tim Thomas..........1,100,000
David Krejci..........883,000
Milan Lucic...........850,000
Shane Hnidy...........756,000
Vladimir Sobotka......750,000
Shawn Thornton........517,000
Jeremy Reich..........488,000

RFA

Mark Stuart
Chuck Kobsaew
Petteri Nokelainen
Dennis Wideman

EST TOTAL...6,000,000

TOTAL: 50,000,000

3,000,000 cap space.

I think this is close. May be a bit off.

Bruins make an offer for Campbell?

http://www.rds.ca/hockey/chroniques/246100.html

RDS is reporting that the Bruins are one of the teams to have made offers for D Brian Campbell of the Buffalo Sabres.

My take: Would be a great addition, but at what cost? And if there are major players being dealt, what about an extension?

Bruins sign Bodnarchuk

From bruins.nhl.com

Boston, MA - Boston Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli announced today that the club has signed defenseman Andrew Bodnarchuk to an entry-level contract. Per team policy, terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

"Andrew has the ability to be a prototypical defenseman in the new NHL," said Chiarelli. "He is smart, and can both move the puck and skate well. As he learns how to play against bigger and stronger players at the NHL level, he will mature into a productive player for our club."

Bodnarchuk, a 5'11, 190-pound defenseman, was selected by the Bruins with their fifth pick (128th overall) in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He has played for the Halifax Mooseheads of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) since the 2005-2006 season, tallying nine goals and 32 assists in 55 games for the Mooseheads this season.

Last season, the 19-year old defenseman scored 16 goals and registered four assists in 63 regular season games. He also amassed 96 penalty minutes. During the Mooseheads' playoff run he added 11 points, and 25 penalty minutes in 12 games.

During his 2005-2006 season with Halifax, Bodnarchuk scored six goals and added 17 assists and 136 penalty minutes in 68 regular season games. He also accumulated 22 penalty minutes in 11 post-season games.

Bruins-Canes Preview

Currently sitting in 8th place in the Eastern Conference, the Bruins find themselves in desperate need of some points. The Bruins need to create a little bit of separation from the rest of the pack. Right now there are 5 teams below the Bruins that are within 4 points of them. The Bruins are 0-3-0 against the Hurricanes this season. Petteri Nokelainen has the flu and will not play. Peter Schaeffer is still out with a skin injury. The Canes will be with captain Rod Brind'Amour, who is done for the season, and Ray Whitney (Groin). Also Eric Cole is questionable. The Bruins should beat this team tonight and if they don't they will find out very quickly they are again in danger of missing the playoffs. Look for the Bruins to come out strong in the first and hopefully maintain that for the remainder of the game. Here are the lines:

Axelsson-Savard-Murray
Sturm-Metropolit-Kobasew
Lucic-Krejci-Kessel
Reich-Sobotka-Thornton

Chara-Wideman
Stuart-Ward
Ference-Hnidy

Thomas

Prediction:
Bruins:4
Canes:2

Latest Buzz on Trade Rumors

This from Scott Burnside at ESPN.com:

The Bruins currently hold the eighth and final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference, but are tied in points with Buffalo. Boston would like to get bigger up front and add some scoring (it ranks 24th in goals per game). Hmmm. Marian Hossa is big and he can score. Boston GM Peter Chiarelli knows Hossa well from the days when they were both in Ottawa.
Does Chiarelli have enough assets to intrigue Don Waddell should the Atlanta GM decide to trade Hossa? Hossa, who will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Craig Custance there is only "a slim" chance he'll sign with the Thrashers. The addition of Hossa would be huge for the Bruins, who have missed the playoffs twice in a row since the lockout and have not won a playoff round since 1999.

Thoughts: The conversation clearly begins with Phil Kessel as the focal point of any big trade talk. Hossa would bring that proven scoring punch that the Bruins so desperately need down the stretch. The Bruins would certainly have to ink Hossa to an extension in order for this to make any sense if they pull it off. For those that are still confident in Kessel's potential, like myself, should also consider the possibility of seeing Marc Savard feeding Hossa the puck on a game-by-game basis.

Rob Blake

Look for Rob Blake to be traded out of LA. The reports I have been hearing (FSN Detroit) have him rumored to be a Red Wing. This would be a good move for both Blake and the Wings. Blake is at the back end of a good career and I am sure he wants one more crack at the Cup. The Red Wings lost thier past two games and Osgood got pulled in both games for the Umaine alum Jimmy Howard. Only one goal last night was Osgoods fault. The Wings are missing Brian Rafalski back on the blue line and another defensmen. Not to mention Hasek is out. Look for the Wings to deal for a top 4 d-man and a top 6 forward with Dan Cleary out with 2 broken bones in his jaw.

Speaking of Detroit Sergei Federov who began his career thier was quoted in saying he would like to go back to Detroit. However, don't look for that deal to happen unless Columbus doesn't win a game until the dealine. Highly unlikely Columbus will be looking to unload Adam Foote either. Look for them to add pieces this year.

With the success of the out door game in Buffalo, rumors are flying about the Chicago Blackhawks might be looking to play at Soilders Field.

Maple Leafs are hearing offers for several players including; Mats Sundin, Darcy Tucker,and Jason Blake. Tucker has a no trade clause and Blake just signed a huge contract this past offseason. I see Sundin the easiest to deal, although he is their captian. If the right deal comes along look for Sundin to be gone.

The NY Islanders may also be looking to unload some guys including Mike Comire, Trent Hunter, and Mirisolav Satan. I see Satan and Comire getting delete. Comire brings expirence in the Cup as he was with the Sens last year in the finals. Satan brings a guy who can score, but isn't great in the D-Zone.

Sources: FSN Detroit, Thefourthperiod, and Yahoo Sports

Names to look for at the deadline...

Marian Hossa- The best player available. Has played with Savard and Chara and the Bruins lack offense intensity and skill.

Ladislav Nagy- On the worst team in the league right now, Nagy is a 2nd tier player. He is a good LW who can make plays. IMO, he is more a playmaker and a goalscorer. A guy any contending team would like.

Brad Stuart- Could it happen? Not likely. The ex-Bruin is one of the better defenseman in the market, but he hasn't played that good. He could solidfy any contending teams D-corps as a number 3-4.

Mark Recchi- If Atlanta is out of it in the next week or so, Recchi could be dealt. His cap hit is under 400,000 and could be had for a mid-pick. He can still score and provides veteran leadership.

Dan Boyle- Arguably the best defenseman available, it doesn't seem likely the Bolts can resign him longterm and he is the offensive defenseman many teams want. Look for the Bruins to explore this.

Olli Jokinen- No. Unlikely, but the Bruins could offer a package headed by Lashoff and Kessel. Jokinen is a franchise player who any team would want. It is obvious after trading Thornton that the team needs a franchise forward.

Patrick Marleau- While he continues to struggle the should-be Bruin is on the market. He is a notch below Jokinen, but many teams are in for him. Look for the Bruins to explore him as well. The only issue is his new multi year extension with a big raise and cap hit.

Brian Campbell- The elite defenseman on the market, the Sabres will likely lose him to the market this offseason. Since the Sabres are in the playoffs as of now, it is unlikely he would be dealt unless it was for a crazy offer.

Alex Tanguay- Talented winger with some struggles this season. Rumors Calgary wants him out for cap space. I don't see it happening but could be an option.

Vaclav Prospal- An underrated winger who can add some offensive punch. Would be a great 2nd line winger.

Miroslav Satan- The former All-Star has struggled on the Island and could be dealt. He is still very talented and could help any team. He is in the last year of his deal.

JM Liles- Will likely be dealt since Colorado has no interest in resiging him. The Bruins have been rumored after him before, and could use an offensive guy to help the blueline.

New Writers

Hey everyone,

I am looking for 2 new writers. For one reason or another, the other posters haven't been contributing and I will deal with that.

Send me an email at bruinsrumors@yahoo.com if you are interested. Include a preview post and some background Info about yourself.

Me and Jha will deal with the sidebar and come up with a way to update it more easily.

If you could acquire 1 player at the deadline...who?

Who would it be? Mine would be no other than...

Marian Hossa.

This team NEEDS and I mean NEEDS offense. How many times have you been watching them go down 2-0 and go, shit it is over? I know I do. How many times have you seen us go up by 2 goals, and go shit we are going to lose? I know I do. (Doesn't happen much but...)

I know it is a good thing to win close games, which is necessary in the playoffs, but it is NOT good to win all your games by a close margin. The reason why I say shit we are going to lose when we are up 2 is because, a) the other team has good offensive players and teams can score quickly, and b) because I doubt the offense will score more.

The last game vs. Pitt. We were up 2-0 in the first 12 minutes, and then did not score the rest of the game. We won 2-1. That is the type of game where you need to score more and put the game away.

Our offense has mounted 1 major comeback this season versus Pittsburgh down 4-0. Our team doesn't have a 20 goal scorer. I am not expecting the team win the Stanley Cup, but if they want to be competative, they need to find a better balance of offense versus defense. While the defense has improved, the offense has not. The Bruins are one of the WORST offensive teams since 2005-06.

Imagine this team without Marc Savard. Yeah, tell me about it.

While you can blame Bergeron being out, and so on, the fact is, even with him, we still wouldn't be a good offensive team. We don't have that 40 goal scorer or 110 point guy like San Jose, Pittsburgh, Ottawa, Detroit or Anaheim.

Look, you can say, well we need a puckmoving defenseman. But you are wrong. Does it really matter if we have one or not if we just dump the puck in all the time. You need skilled forwards to bring the puck into the zone WITH posession.

While Kobasew has been a plesant surprise, and Kessel has improved, there also have been dissappointments. Schaefer, Murray, Sturm to some degree.

And I also know that even by loading up on offense, you aren't guaranteed to score. The Rangers signed Gomez, Drury, on top of having Shanahan, Jagr, Prucha, Avery... (Even though I told you they were overrated and Drury and Gomez were not that good).

This where Hossa comes in. The wing posistion is no longer that pure sniper with a sick shot. Now it is a combination of speed, shot, and stick handling. The wingers now have to be able to deke 1-2 players and score. They have to be able to make nothing something. That is why guys like Muzz, Shanahan, Guerin and others are struggling in this new NHL.

Hossa is one of the top wingers in the league. He averages around 40 goals. He also has played with both Savard and Zdeno Chara, so there is some chemistry.

I wouldn't sell the house for Hossa. I'd give up a similar package that Edmonton got for Ryan Smyth. A prospect, a number 1 and a 3-4th liner. 1st rounder, Schaefer/Metropolit and a Sobotka/Krecji type. Not Lucic.

Injury Update

From today, Bergeron said he thinks he could return, but is just starting to get into more intense conditioning and rehab programs.

My take: I don't see him coming back unless it is at the very end of the season. It really sucks Bergy has been out so long, but I think it is unfair to expect him to return. Even if he comes back, who knows how long it would be for. See Simon Gagne.

Aaron Ward is returning to Boston today after his throat injury from Sergei Gonchar.

It wasn't a serious injury and he should be able to play soon.

Andrew Alberts does not have post-concussion syndrome, but a neck injury that causes headaches. He is doing physical therapy and should be returning in 2-3 weeks.

Chuck Kobasew is returning soon after a minor back injury.

Flashback 2003 offseason:

Flashback, the lockout is upon us. We just got eliminated from the playoffs by the Habs. I am Mike O'Connell. Here is what I should do.

Re-sign Sergei Gonchar to a 4 year deal worth 4,500,000 per season. Increase of just under 1 million for Gonchar from his previous season.

Re-sign Michael Nylander to a 3 year deal worth 3,400,000 per season. An increase of just under 1 million from his previous season.

Re-sign Brian Rolston to a 4 year deal worth 3,000,000 per season.

Re-sign Mike Knuble to a 3 year deal worth 2,650,000 per season.

The following offseason, after a lockout season, I do the following.

Trade Nick Boynton, a 1st round pick, and Sergei Zinojev to the St. Louis Blue for Chris Pronger. (It was a rumored deal of Boynton and a pick to Stl. for Pronger, when MOC couldn't pull the trigger or got beaten out)

Re-sign Joe Thornton to a 5 year deal worth 6.8 per.

And our team would be...

Knuble-Thornton-Murray
Samsonov-Nylander-Rolston
Axelsson-Bergeron-Boyes
Isbister- Green-PROSPECT

Gonchar-Pronger
Gill-O'Donnell
Slegr-McGillis

Raycroft
Toivonen

Not the best defense, but a sick offensive team.

Team to close to sell: Trade Dealine Looms

This team is currently in the 9th spot in the conference. This team is too close to be sellers. I think the team owes its fans for the past 2 seasons to acquire an impact player. Even if it does not lead to a championship, ala Ryan Smyth.

Now, this team can't really be a seller either, because who are they going to trade? We have one UFA at the end of the season who people really want, Aaron Ward. I think Ward is a solid defenseman, and I would try to re-sign him to a 1-2 year extension for around 1.8 per.

The Bruins aren't a team with any gaping holes. They play solid defense. Solid goaltending. The offense is what kills us. When we lose games, it is rarely, 5-4 or something. It is more like a 3-1 type game. Giving up 3 goals isn't bad in the new NHL. This isn't the old. Defense doesn't win championships, it is a combination of both. The Bruins have a top defense in the league, but a awful offense. We don't have a single 20 goal scorer. Ovechkin has 47 and counting. The Bruins need a true goalscorer who can also make plays.

The problem with the offense is that they dump the puck too much. Esp. on the PP. They need to bring it in with skilled forwards and put the puck on net more. Many teams score goals from rebounds and redirections, but the Bruins don't put the puck on the net enough. Shawn Thornton did that last night and he scored 2.

With the deadline moving closer, many fans think that we need a defenseman, like Boyle, Cambpell, Liles, Morris, so on. No. We don't. We need a forward. Marian Hossa is the guy I am looking at. Olli Jokinen would be great, but I doubt he gets dealt. Hossa is an impending UFA. Not only is he one of the best wingers in the league, but he played with Savard and Chara, so he knows people on the team. If we are to acquire him, there is a good chance an extension could be reached. I crunched some numbers for next season, including a 3 million dollar bump in the cap, which is rumored to 53.3 million. I added Marian Hossa for 8 million a season, and upped some money for RFA's, and added a few other UFA's and we are around 52.5 million. The team can afford him for next season.

Even if the Bruins don't land Hossa, I would hope for an decent player like a Nagy, or Vyborny. The team needs some offense. It is killing us. Sturm, Savard, Kessel, Murray, Kobasew are the only ones who can really score. We don't have a GREAT offensive defenseman like a Gonchar or Lidstrom. (We once did...).

My point, acquire an impact offense player and this team can be very good.

Leading me to my next point. Two things piss me off. Selanne and Niedermayer, and Forsberg. I don't get why these guys are eligable to play this season. For Niedermayer, I can see it as he was under contract, so it is more acceptable to me, but I think there should be a cap penalty because anyone could tell their high priced veteran to sit the first few months, suspend them, and then come back. My proposed rule. If a player under contract over the age of 35 with a salary over 4 million dollars who does not play before December 1st not due to injury and decides to come back has a cap hit of 1.5 million plus his contract. So basically, if Niedermayer would be a cap of 1.5 plus the remainder of his salary, which is 6.75 million or w/e divided by 82, times the number of games played. Or days I don't know how they do it.

Now for Forsberg and Selanne. I think this one is COMPLETE crap. If you aren't signed by December 1st, that is it. It is unfair for a veteran like Selanne or Forsberg to be able to sign with a competing team for a cheap deal, when it is obvious they are going to sign with only 2-3 teams. Selanne gets to go back to Anaheim after missing 3+ months of the season. Forsberg could sign back with Philly. How is that fair? Any UFA veteran could hold out and sign with a favorite team late in the season. My proposed rule. If a player is not signed by December 1st, they are uneligable to play in the NHL for that current season, unless UFA was injured during the offseason and the first 2 months of the season. If that is the case, the player can sign with any team, but the contract will all count against the cap regardless of the days he is on the team. The contract must be fully guaranteed, and it must be accurate of the previous seasons play if it is a 1 year deal or the per year value of the last contract signed. So if Forsberg signs with Philly for a 1 year, he can sign, but say he signs for 1.4 million, instead of 850,000 or so counting against the cap, all 1.4 million will. Also, he can't sign a 1 year deal for 500,000. That is ridiculous. He can sign for a realistic amount for that type of player for a half season or so. The 2nd part of the rule just protects guys who just came off 50 goal seaons to sign for 950,000. But if the 50 goal scorer made 2 million, the deal can be for 1 million.

Forsberg Sweepstakes

First it was Scott Neidermayer coming back to the Ducks. Then it was Selanne returning to Anaheim as well. In the third installment of "Let me take the first half of the season off to ponder life and return to a team that can compete," sweepstakes, Peter Forsberg is now the catch of the day. Anyone would agree that this guy, when healthy, is one of the elite hockey players in the world. However, he's been hampered with injuries for years and who knows if he can ever return to his cup winning ways during his Avalanche days.

For what it's worth, the Bruins should make a serious run at this guy. Think about it, with both Bergeron and Fernandez out of the picture on LTIR, they have plenty of money, and more, to pay for a half season's worth of service for this guy. I'm speaking under the assumption that Forsberg is looking for a one season type deal and show his stuff in the hope that he can sign long-term afterwards. However, if he's looking for a multi-year deal, Chiarelli can't run away from this guy fast enough.

Now, under my first assumption, it's a low risk, high reward type signing if they can pull it off. Low risk because it's only for a half season and not a lot of money, and, high reward if this guy can actually produce. Wouldn't it be a nice sight if the assist machine Marc Savard had a pure goal scorer like Peter Forsberg on his side?

I know it's wishful thinking and just food for thought, but I figured I'd throw it out there.

Quick Thoughts

• Even though the B's played like crap for a period and a half (almost two) last night, it was still a huge win on the road against the Senators
• Glen Murray has now missed 17 games, this guy is literally turning into dead weight around the Garden. I understand hip flexor injuries can take some time, but this is ridiculous
• Congrats to Glen Metropolit on his 100th point the other night, now there's a feel good story of coming out of nowhere in life to make something of yourself
• Not everything is positive, NESN's commerical spoofs on the McDonalds "I'm into nuggets y'all," are the worst thing I have ever heard. Clearly those two guys had to be paid a lot of money to make such fools of themselves.