Nhl Northeast

Aurevoir Kaberle...For Now

2009-02-27T11:09:00.000-05:00

Tomas Kaberle will be traded on March 4th. I guarantee it.

Kaberle, who's dawned the Leafs uniform for a decade, would be wise to waive his no-trade clause at the NHL Trade Deadline. This would allow him to control his fate, rather than have Burke decide it for him when his contract nullifies his NTC in the off-season due to the Leafs' failure to make the post-season this year.

While the Trade Deadline will limit Burke's options for potential suitors for Kaberle, his 4.25M cap-hit will make #15 a hot commodity for GM's looking for a puck-moving defenseman. While Burke has made it perfectly clear that it would take a significant offer for him to ask Kaberle to waive his NTC - a 1st round-pick, a roster player and a prospect to be exact - the desperation of GM's looking to bolster their line-up makes that asking price realistic - and by god, is it good to be a seller!

Reports have been circulating that Kaberle has given Burke a list of 10 teams he'd be willing to play for, but Burke shot down the reports, stating that Kaberle "has not given me a list of 10 teams he'd like to be trade to." While this is somewhat concerning for those hoping Kaberle is no longer a Leaf by March 4th, I don't think this will prove to be too much of a problem if GM's come a knockin' on Burke's door. Kaberle's intentions may be to stay in Toronto, but if a team, most likely a contender, decides to give in to Burke's demands, you can bet Kaberle will be aware of the benefactors for not only himself, but the team he's been serving so long. I found this quote particularly interesting:

"I want this clear, Tomas Kaberle made it clear to me, right to my face, 'I don't want to go anywhere else, I want to be a Toronto Maple Leaf'," Burke said. "He believes we'll get it turned around. He loves the city, wants to be part of the turnaround." (TheFourthPeriod)

While I admire Kaberle's passion for the Blue and White, this seems like the Mats Sundin dilemma all over again. Considering Burke's asking price, Kaberle must be aware of the talent and youth he'd import to the Leafs' youth cupboard by departing the team. Kaberle's contract prolongs to the 2010-11 season, so he'd be seperated from the Leafs for one season before becoming a UFA. Kaberle made it clear that he "wants to be part of the turnaround," but realistically, the Leafs won't start to rise in the Eastern Conference standings until atleast the 2011-12 season, when the youth they hopefully acquire begin to establish their roles for the Leafs' future. With that said, if Kaberle feels as strongly for the Leafs as he seems to suggest, then he should realize how much his departure would benefit the line-up, ensuring him a stronger club if he decides to return in the summer of 2011.

So basically, Kaberle, you have to choose. The red pill, which ensures you to play out the 2008-09 season, or the blue pill, which sends you to another team, bringing in loads of the talent to the Leafs' roster, and giving you the opportunity to come back a year later.

The choice is yours... (THE BLUE PILL! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!)

ronguillet@gmail.com

The Schneider Effect: The Canadiens' Power Play On Fire

2009-02-22T16:20:00.001-05:00

Since being acquired by GM Bob Gainey from the Atlanta Thrashers last Monday, Mathieu Schneider has played three games for the Canadiens. The veteran defenseman already has two goals and one assist, all on the power play, and despite being -4 during that span, Schneider has played very well for the Habs, logging about 23 minutes of play per game.

With Francis Bouillon's long term groin injury, Schneider's acquisition is even more important for the Canadiens to get some stability on their top two defenseman pairings. Schneider has played with Andrei Markov, while Mike Komisarek has played with Roman Hamrlik.

Guy Carbonneau doesn't have to over-utilize Patrice Brisebois or Josh Gorges, with Schneider around.

However, the main beneficiary of Schneider's presence has been their power play. In 12 attempts over the past three games, the Canadiens have scored seven goals; that's a 58,33% rate!!

The Canadiens are now ranked 17th in the NHL after this recent boost. They hovered around the 25th rank for most of the season.

With a motivated Kovalev, an explosive power play and Alex Tanguay's imminent return, GM Bob Gainey will be in good position at the deadline to make the right move to consolidate the Canadiens' position as a playoffs team.

Senators Surprisingly acquire Mike Comrie from Islanders

2009-02-20T17:17:00.002-05:00

Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray acquired centre Mike Comrie and defenseman Chris Campoli earlier today in exchange for veteran forward Dean McAmmond and San Jose's 2009 first-round draft pick, obtained from the Tampa Bay Lightning in August 2008.

Comrie, 28, has 20 points in 43 games for the Islanders this season. He played 41 games with the Senators in 2006-07, recording 25 points. Comrie, who is making $4 million this season, will be an unrestricted free agent at season's end.

Campoli, 24, is an offensive defenseman who is having a rough year in New York. In 51 games, Campoli has 17 points, but he also has a -20 plus-minus differential. Campoli, who only makes $633,333/year, is a very affordable defenseman.

McAmmond has seven points in 44 games with Ottawa. He has played on the Sens' fourth line for most of the season. He will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. The 35-year-old forward has played 916 regular season games.

GM Bryan Murray decided to help his rookie coach by getting offensive help. With Captain Daniel Alfredsson rumored to be out for a few weeks because of a fractured jaw, Murray acted fast in replacing Alfie's offensive output. Comrie should fit nicely in Ottawa's new up-tempo forechecking style, while Campoli will help Ottawa's transition game.

GM Garth Snow still has plenty of veteran players to trade before the trade deadline, such as Guerin, Weight, and Witt. Nice job getting a first-rounder for Comrie and an underachieving Campoli.

I do believe, however, that it's too little too late for Ottawa to clinch a playoff berth. The Senators are currently 13 points back from the eight seed occupied by the Sabres. They do have two games in hand.

The Senators will visit the sinking Montreal Canadiens on Saturday afternoon in a very important Northeast division matchup.

Rookie goaltender Brian Elliott will be in goal.

Kovalev's Fate

2009-02-18T14:32:00.001-05:00

It's time for a new era in Montreal.

The notion of unloading Alexei Kovalev from the Habs' line-up may seem absurd to some fans of the team, but I believe this is a crucial step towards their path to the Stanley Cup.

Whether you're a fan of Kovalev or not, it's undeniable that he's a tremendous talent. The problem with him is that he only plays when he wants to, and this is a huge problem. To put it simply, his inconsistency affects the immediate, and future success of the Habs. He neglects his role as a veteran, and doesn't insert any sort of leadership to the Canadiens' young roster. And forget about leading by example, Kovalev drifts in and out of consistency, and his production is largely determined by his occasional hot streaks.

With recent news of Bob Gainey deciding to leave Kovalev at home because of "lack of emotion and production," I would say his time as Canadien is all but done. While he may come back to the Canadiens line-up with a spark in his engine, how long will it be before it runs dry?

The Canadiens are a young team whose core compromises of Carey Price, Sergei Kostitsyn (assigned to AHL, it'll do him so good to get his game back in order), Andrei Kostitsyn, Tomas Plekanec, Chris Higgins, Andrei Markov, and Mike Komisarek (among others). Kovalev's inconsistency and unwillingness to commit to the Canadiens has a much larger affect compared to the goals and points he contributes to the team.

If Kovalev is traded from the Habs, not only would they acquire a decent return for the 35 year old (Gainey would be wiser to unload him at the Trade Deadline; GM's are more desperate for rentals), but it would leave a top 6 roster spot available. Stop dreaming about Vincent Lecavalier for a second, and consider not only the talent that resides within the Habs' young players (Pacioretty, Maxwell, etc.), but the variety of UFA’s that can benefit the Habs Stanley Cup aspirations.

UFA's (Forwards) that I think could benefit the Habs:

Todd Bertuzzi: Enjoying a nice comeback season with the Flames. He's not the offensive force he once was, but his grit and ability to crash the net would benefit the Habs, especially a young player like Pacioretty, who plays a similar game.

Marian Hossa: He may re-sign with the Red Wings, but if not, Gainey should be willing to dish out some cash for a player of his caliber. His two-way play would fit in well with Carbonneau's system, and he'd stand as the Habs’ top offensive weapon.

Brendan Shannahan: It's likely Shannahan may opt to retire after this season, but if he doesn't, I wouldn’t completely rule out the possibility of Shanny in a Habs uniform. His leadership would go a long way for the Habs' young core. It's possible, if Gainey wants him.

There are a few others on the list, but I believe these players would be the most effective for the Habs. And while there are UFA's such as Mike Comrie, Mike Cammarelli, and Brian Gionta available, the Habs are better off targeting sizable forwards who can play an effective two-way game, rather than small players who are limited in the physical department.

It all starts with Kovalev. His departure will allow the Habs to take an important next step towards the Stanley Cup, rather than float in inconsistency and false hope - sounds alot like Kovalev's game, doesn't it?

The Canadiens have the tools to win a 25th Stanley Cup, but there is still work to be done, even if it is the centennial year. Despite what the Canadiens' current slump may suggest, they only require more experience from their young players, and a few minor moves before they're worthy of grasping the Silver Mug once more.

ronguillet@gmail.com

The List

2009-02-17T17:13:00.000-05:00

*The following is an opinion piece of who I think is on their way out of Toronto by March 4th (not the off-season)*

The Leafs are in the midst of, yet again, a mediocre season. Unlike previous years, however, the Leafs have refrained from the up-and-down, "I BeLeaf in 8th place" facade that was commonly grouped with the Leafs during the past few years. Rather, the Leafs have been posting L's on the calendar regularly this season, "rewarding" their fans with dissapointing efforts.

On the flip side, the Leafs now have possesion of a much younger team compared to years past, containing a variety of young talent in Luke Schenn, Nikolai Kulemin, Mikhail Grabovski, Jiri Tlusty, Anton Stralman, and Justin Pogge (among others...I think). While the aforementioned, besides Luke Schenn, don't have superstar potential, they are the beginnings of a new era in Toronto, one that hopefully brings a Stanley Cup to a franchise in dire need of one.

Pertaining to the point of this blog, here's a list of the players that I think will be moved. Hopefully the Burke-era is kicked off by an influx of youth and potential to be imported to the Leafs' roster.

Jason Blake (51 GP, 21 G, 44 PTS)

Many think Blake will not be traded due to his lucrative contract, but Blake's emergence as the Leafs' top player is beyond impressive, and he's making a serious case for comeback player of the year. While Blake's cap hit is at $4M, he's performing at a level which makes his contract terms somewhat of an afterthough. While it may be a little difficult to find a suitor that has the required cap space, it shouldn't be to much of a problem if Blake keeps up his current play. Also, consider Mathieu Schneider, who was dealt to the Montreal Canadiens, makes a whopping $5.75M this season, and at 39, he's not exactly the offensive force he once was.

Potential return: Roster player (salary return) and a mid-level draft pick/prospect

Tomas Kaberle (49GP, 4 G, 30 PTS)

Kaberle's been a loyal member of the Maple Leafs for a decade now, and he will be remembered fondly, but his tenure is coming to an end with the Buds. While Kaberle's defensive game leaves much to be desired, his offensive game is his bread and butter. A premier puck moving defenseman in the NHL, Kaberle will fetch the Leafs their most valuable return at the Deadline. While he won't get the Leafs Jeff Carter and 1st round pick this time around, his value should ensure the Leafs a quality return in the form of draft picks and prospects. And considering his $4.25M cap-hit, Kaberle will be generating a lot of interesnt around the league, the only problem is whether he decides to waive his NTC or not.

Potential return: 1st round pick and a decent prospect

Nikolai Antropov (52GP, 18 G, 42 PTS)

I wouldn't be afraid to guarantee this one. Brian Burke publicly stated that he wouldn't hesitate to trade Antropov if interest was expressed for the 28 year old. While Antropov went through a grueling slump (0 goals in 18 games), Antropov is on pace for another 50-point campaign. His cap-hit is also movable at $2.05M.

Potential return: 2nd round pick

And that's it, folks. Not half the team, just three core players. While many think players such as Vesa Toskala, Alexei Ponikarovsky, and Pavel Kubina will be traded, Burke can't turn this team around in one swift motion. It will take time, and chiping away at the core of the Leafs is a start. The remainder of the players who Burke doesn't want will be dealt with during the off-season, when he can assess the team more clearly and determine who the Leafs may acquire through free agency to fill the void left by the departed players.

While this season will once again be proclaimed as a disappointment, let's think more positively, and determine the 2008-09 season as the year of change.

The Leafs will once again raise Lord Stanley, and it all starts on March 4th.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Step Away From The Police Cruisers

2009-02-13T11:48:00.001-05:00

Yes, the Montreal Canadiens are playing their worst hockey of the season. Yes, Carey Price couldn’t stop a beach ball if Wade Belak was shooting at him (assuming he hits the net). Yes, Kovalev has once again disappeared. Yes, yes, yes.

Are the Habs doomed? No. Atleast not in the long-term.

I won’t sugarcoat it, the Habs are playing abysmal hockey. The penalty kill is ineffective, and the lack of a quality offensive defenseman on the powerplay, besides Andrei Markov, is staggering production. While Gainey may opt to acquire a PP specialist via trade on March 4th, let’s step away from this whole 100th anniversary façade and analyze this situation objectively. If Gainey pursues a top4 defenseman at the Deadline, you can bet it’ll involve some quality young prospects from the Habs. And while the Canadiens have a wealth of prospects to dish out for current “obligations”, is it really necessary?

After all, it’s not set in stone that Jay Bouwmeester will be traded at the Deadline, as the Panthers are ranked 7th overall in the Eastern Conference, so trading him would hold them back considerably from their post-season goal. That said, Bouwmeester is a UFA at season’s end, and you can bet there will be a ton of teams lining up for him. The Habs, containing a young team, have the advantage of having a lot cap space.

Now, if the Canadiens were to acquire Bouwmeester by trade, they would lose a considerable amount of prospects/picks and players, and then, if they’d wish to resign him, would have to pay nearly the same as he’d get in the free agent market.

So nevermind about this whole 100th anniversary “we’re going for it all” crap. Enjoy the honour for what it is: lasting 100 years in the NHL. It doesn’t mean you have to win THIS year, and expectations shouldn’t be blown to unrealistic expectations because of it.

The Habs have an abundance of young prospects that have the potential to be NHL stars. That’s a fact. Simply put, Habs fans jumped the gun this season, and expected far too much from their players. After all, their core consists of Carey Price, Sergei Kostitsyn, Andrei Kostitsyn, Tomas Plekanec, Chris Higgins, Mike Komisarek, Andrei Markov, Alexei Kovalev, and Saku Koivu (among others). Then you have promising prospects in P.K. Subban, Ryan McDonagh, Ben Maxwell, David Fischer, and a variety of others. Basically, three quarters of the Habs lineup are young players who are still establishing their role in the NHL. Once the experience mounts, so will the wins, and then eventually, you will be rewarded with the almighty Silver Mug.

While the Habs have their issues (top4 d-man, a big centerman upfront) it’s all a part of the process of building a winning team. They have the tools, it’s up to them to build themselves up for a brighter future.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Canadiens and Thrashers Talking Trade

2009-02-04T20:22:00.002-05:00

The Atlanta Thrashers are actively shopping centre Erik Christensen and veteran defenseman Mathieu Schneider and according to various sources, the Montreal Canadiens, among others, have inquired about the above players.

Christensen, 25, is having a sub-par season with the Thrashers, notching only four goals and eleven assists in 36 games. He was acquired with Colby Armstrong and Angelo Esposito for Marian Hossa and the trade deadline last season.

Christensen, 6'1'', 208-lb, is a shootout specialist with great skating abilities and soft hands. Earning only $750,000 this season, he is a restricted free agent at season's end.

Schneider, 39, is a power play specialist with a great vision and good skating abilities. He is having a rough season with the Thrashers, recording only eleven points in 39 games. He had a great season with the Ducks the year before, notching 39 points in only 65 games.

His high salary, $5.625.000/year makes is very available. He will be an unrestricted free agent at season's end.

Atlanta is reportedly seeking a middle-round draft pick and second-tier prospect.

With the long term injury to Robert Lang, the Canadiens have the cap space to absorb both players' salary.

Would you do it if you were Bob Gainey?

Bob Gainey Must Move, and Move Fast

2009-02-02T22:43:00.003-05:00

With the latest long term injuries to veteran centre Robert Lang, winger Guillaume Latendresse and defenseman Josh Gorges, the Canadiens players are dropping like flies.

They will be joining winger Alex Tanguay (shoulder), George Laraque (back) and Mathieu Dandenault (wrist) on the injury list.

Latendresse is out for a few weeks with a shoulder injury that he sustained during Sunday's matinee against the Boston Bruins when he collided with Chuck Kobasew and fell awkwardly into the board.

Gorges is out indefinitely with concussion symptoms after he was vicously hit during Saturday's matchup against the LA Kings when Denis Gauthier nailed him with a vicious elbow to the head. Gauthier, who received a five-minute major and a game-misconduct on the play, has been suspended five games by the NHL earlier today for this behavior.

While Latendresse and Gorges were playing very well recently for a Habs team that is sinking fast, the injury to Lang is the most costly. Lang is currently leading all Canadiens forward with 18 goals and 21 assists for 39 points in 50 games. He also has a team-leading eight power play goals.

Lang's season-ending injury means Gainey must get help down the middle if he wants his team to be successful come playoffs time as neither Tomas Plekanec nor Saku Koivu have been able to pick up the slack offensively.

Youngsters like Ben Maxwell and Kyle Chipchura have shown the management that they are not ready to carry the offensive load in Lang's absence.

Who would you trade for if you were Bob Gainey?

Random Thoughts As The Leafs' Buns Are Still Red Hot

2009-01-28T18:11:00.000-05:00

* Justin Pogge got his “pants pulled down”, plain and simple. Considering he was playing his second NHL game, and his teammates were displaying their best Andy Wozniewski impersonations, I’d say he’s deserving of a mulligan. While a couple of the goals were stoppable, it begs the question if ANY goaltender could of garnered a solid performance with the abysmal performances that were displayed in front of the netminder last night.

* I’m just throwing this out there, but does anyone notice Lee Stempniak on the ice? I sometimes forget he’s on the team.

* Stajan has 0PTS in his last 6 games. This is a little concerning considering his production during the first half of the season, but it’s nothing to burn police cruisers over. A quick glance at the Leafs’ roster will prove that every player, in every position, has endured cold streaks. It’s part of the process of rebuilding, as the Leafs’ core consists largely (and will only continue to) of young players.

* After watching the Leafs’ dismal performance last night, I can’t help but wonder if Pogge should stay clear of the Leafs altogether this season. While easing him in with the occasional game sounds like a logical plan, the Leafs’ defense will play no part in this thing we call, “logic.” One could argue that more time in the AHL will only halt his progression, but I can’t help but think the Leafs will only shatter his confidence if he were to assume the goaltending duties for the Blue and White . I mean, as nice as it is to blame the defensive woes on Vesa Toskala’s struggles, yesterday was a clear indication that the Leafs’ defense are not capable of maintaining order in their own end – even Schenn was a walloping -4.

* While Ron Wilson’s comments are considered egocentric by many, even Don Cherry had to respect his comments towards his fallen goaltender last night. “Obviously the first goal was not very good but then we pulled down his pants,” Wilson said. “Our goaltending has not been good this year. This is an opportunity for Justin. He’s going to get more opportunities. He’s going to be a great NHL goalie.” That may not seem like a Hallmark moment, but for Wilson, this is an act of defending his goaltender and placing the blame almost squarely on his defenders, who, deservingly so, need a serious adjustment in their own end. Wilson said it best: “We don’t have enough guys who care about each other. We have a few guys who should look in the mirror and say: ‘I’m not trying hard enough in my own end. I’m cheating in order to get easy points.’”

* “Enjoy Michael Cammalleri the rest of the season, because on July 1, he’ll be a Toronto Maple Leaf, making almost as much money as Jarome Iginla” – Eric Francis, The Calgary Sun. A player like Cammalleri is exactly what this franchise needs. His speed and offensive prowess would be instantly recognized, and considering his age (26), how can you go wrong? 7 million per season seems a little excessive, but if Burke can lock him up anywhere around the 6 million vicinity, the Leafs will have possession of an integral piece to their rebuilding plan.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Jason Blake a Valuable Commodity?

2009-01-23T19:06:00.000-05:00

Don't look now, but Jason Blake is on pace for 25 goals and 56 points (in 78 games).

And don't give your eyes a rub, that's actually on your computer screen, folks.

While Don Cherry is red in the face over the coaching of Ron Wilson, Blake couldn't be happier. After registering a disappointing 15-goal (although he did have 51 points) campaign in 2007-08, Blake has flourished under Wilson, scoring 14 goals so far this season.

Blake may lack the defensive game to establish himself as an effective two-way forward, but considering his +1 rating, he's obviously doing something right.

Blake is most effective, however, as an energetic forward who uses his speed and tenacity to create scoring chances down low.

All that said, I'm going to come right out and say it: Blake does not belong on this team.

I don't care how much he improves, he just doesn't fit.

Blake is best utilized as a top-six forward. So, what's the problem? The Leafs lack top-six forwards anyway, right?

Wrong.

The Leafs are a rebuilding team. So, how exactly, does Blake fit? He doesn't implement any sort of leadership to the line-up, and at 34, he's not exactly a young stud. Even if he was there for leadership, isn't that why character players like Mayers and May were acquired in the first place?

Wilson may be responsible for the re-emergence of Blake, but the signing was a mistake ever since John Ferguson Jr. signed the dotted line two summers ago.

Blaked is signed on for three more years after this season, possessing a hefty cap-hit at 4 million dollars. It's important to note, however, that he will be making a fair 3 million dollars during the last two years of his contract.

And this, ladies and gentleman, could play a big part in the potential trading of Blake at this year's Trade Deadline.

If Blake can keep producing as an offensive juggernaut (he now has 7PTS in his last 4GP), the Minnesota-native may generate some interest once March 4^th swings around.

It's entirely possible the Leafs continue to be handcuffed with his lucrative contract, but don't be surprised if Burke ends up unloading him, even if it's for a mid-round draft pick (although I would imagine the Leafs would be taking some salary back).

So, what do you think? Is a trade possible? Do you want him off the team? If so, what type of return are you expecting?

ronguillet@gmail.com

Reimin' It Up

2009-01-19T20:36:00.000-05:00

*I'll be honest, I don't even what the hell this title even means, but it gave me a chuckle, so I hope I get a cheap laugh out of ya'*

You know what really grinds my gears?

James Reimer has been a forgotten player amongst the Leafs' prospect cupboard.

Take a look at his statistics throughout his career thus far:

[b]Red Deer Rebels (WHL)
[/b]
2005-06: 34 GP, 2.81 GAA, .910 SV%
2006-07: 60 GP, 2.66 GAA, .912 SV%, 3 SO
2007-08: 30 GP, 2.73 GAA, .916 SV%, 1 SO

[b]Reading Royals (ECHL)[/b]

2008-09: 14 GP, 3.43 GAA, .901 SV%

[b]Toronto Marlies[/b]

2008-09: 1 GP, 1.85 GAA, .926 SV%

I know what you're thinking. Not exactly earth shattering stats, right?

But consider this: Reimer has had the misfortune of backstopping mediocre teams throughout his entire career.

And that hasn't changed for the year 2009. Reimer has earned his spot on the Leafs' ECHL affiliate, but he's been granted a woeful team in the Reading Royals (13-25-2 record - good enough for second last in the league).

As far as his game is concerned, hockeyfutures.com wrote the following:

"Reimer doesn't have much of a problem filling the net. His style has been described as simply coming out of the crease and challenging shooters to find space around his large frame. When he is on his game, the lanky netminder uses his size to cut down angles and plays a controlled game. He also displays decent puckhandling skills." - HF

Sounds similar to Justin Pogge. And considering Leafs fans have witnessed just how important size can be between the pipes (I'm not pointing any fingers, but I'm pointing directly at you, Vesa Toskala), the large frames of the Leafs' upcoming goaltending prospects will be greatly appreciated.

In terms of Reimer's future, there is a variety of scenarios that could unfold:

[i]Scenario #1 (Most Likely):[/i] Justin Pogge becomes the Leafs' starting goaltender for the 2009/10 season, leaving the door open for Reimer as the Marlies' goaltender.

[i]Scenario #2 (Likely):[/i] The Leafs pursue other options between the pipes, and continue to let Pogge develop in the AHL, forcing Reimer to either a) stay with the Royals in the ECHL, which would allow him to log more ice-time, or b) serve as Pogge's back-up in the AHL, injecting a healthy dose of competition between the two.

[i]Scenario #3 (Unlikely):[/i] Toskala is traded at Trade Deadline, Pogge is called-up as starting goaltender, and the Leafs enter the 09-10 season with a young goaltending tandem of Pogge – Reimer.

Pertaining to scenario #1, I think this would be the most feasible and approachable option for the Leafs right now. While Reimer has progressed nicely, he is still at the tender age of 20, so some seasoning is still required if he is to maximize his potential.

Best case scenario: Leafs fans are treated with a future goaltending tandem of Pogge – Reimer and the duo compete for the starting role, which a) inserts some healthy competition between the pipes, and b) assures the Leafs of the more talented goaltender (Tukka Rask...*sigh*).

ronguillet@gmail.com

Vacation

2009-01-18T20:27:00.002-05:00

Please note that I will be on vacation to Cuba from Jan. 19 to Jan. 26, 2009.

I'll be back after the all-star break.

Where Is The Canadiens' Captain? Koivu Still Bothered By an Ankle Injury

2009-01-16T12:37:00.002-05:00

The Canadiens' captain last played on Dec. 11, 2008, against the Lightning. Ever since his ankle injury, Saku Koivu experienced various problems delaying his return in the Habs' uniform.

Koivu suffered his latest setback yesterday when he was forced to leave the ice during practice because of lingering pain on his injured ankle. As a result, the team doctors ordered him to take a few days off the ice to rest his ankle.

This guarantees Koivu won't be back before the All-Star break and maybe more. The Finnish captain has now missed 15 games in a row and since the Canadiens are playing well without him, this will likely put an end to his tenure as the Habs' captain.

Earning $4,750,000 this season, Koivu, 34, is in the last year of his contract and he's set to become an unrestricted free agent. Unless Koivu accepts to take a large pay cut to stay in Montreal, I highly doubt GM Bob Gainey will tender an offer to his ageing captain because of the numerous UFAs or RFAs the Canadiens will have to retain at season's end.

Alex Tanguay, Alex Kovalev, Robert Lang, Steve Begin, Tom Kostopoulos, Mike Komisarek, Francis Bouillon, Mathieu Dandenault and Patrice Brisebois will all become UFAs, while Chris Higgins, Tomas Plekanec, Gui Latendresse and Kyle Chipchura will become RFAs.

Would you keep Koivu? Or is it time to pass the torch to a younger captain (AKA Komisarek)?

Senators send Gerber to Binghamton of the AHL

2009-01-15T17:48:00.002-05:00

As per TSN:

The Ottawa Senators announced Thursday that goaltender Martin Gerber has been sent down to the AHL's Binghamton Senators on a two-week conditioning assignment.

Gerber, 34, has a 4-9-1 record with a 2.86 goals-against average and .899 save-percentage in 14 games this season. He was a healthy scratch in Ottawa's 5-1 win over the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday and Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Thrashers in Atlanta.

He last saw action in a 6-4 loss to the Bruins in Boston on Jan. 8.

In 100 games with Ottawa, Gerber is 49-36-8 with a.907 save-percentage and a 2.76 goals-against average. In 214 career NHL games, he has a 104-73-7-14 record with a .910 save-percentage and 2.61 goals-against average.

Waiter! A Cold Miller On Ice For The All-Star Game Please!

2009-01-15T17:01:00.002-05:00

With Carey Price being more and more doubtful for the All-Star game, the league will likely have to find him a replacement. The Eastern Conference's backups being Tim Thomas and Henrik Lundqvist, who gets the third spot?

If we look at the statistics of the other candidates, Ryan Miller emerges as the likely replacement for Price. Ranked second in the conference with 19 wins, Miller has already four wins in January. His GAA and his save percentage are both ranked sixth in the conference. Miller is also leading the conference with three shutouts (tied with three other goalies).

Miller, 28, has bounced back from a subpar season in 2007-08 where he only won 36 wins despite playing an enormous 76 games. The Sabres even missed the playoffs for the first-time in three years.

The Sabres currently ranks seventh in the Eastern Conference only one point ahead of the Panthers who are currently ranked ninth. Without Miller's strong play this season, the Sabres would be way out of contention.

Other candidates include Scott Clemmensen and Craig Anderson (1A goalies who replaced respectively Martin Brodeur and Tomas Vokoun).

Maple Leafs Mid-Season Awards: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2009-01-15T11:36:00.003-05:00

Halfway through the season, the Toronto Maple Leafs have 16 wins, 21 losses, six overtime losses for a total of only 38 points in 43 games. They currently sit in the 11th spot of the Eastern Conference, nine points out of a playoffs spot.

It's time for the mid-season report card.

The good:

Nik Antropov: The giant Russian is having a good season with 33 points (13 goals and 20 assists) in 43 games. He's been very consistent on a line with Stajan and Ponikarovsky. He also has avoided the injury bug as of today... Burke should trade him before he goes down with an injury.

Matt Stajan: Stajan, 25, is having the best season of his short career so far. In 37 games, he has 32 points (ten goals and 22 assists). He missed six games with a freak soccer incident two weeks ago. Stajan is thriving under Ron Wilson after he was a healthy scratch earlier this season.

Alexei Ponikarovsky: The Poni Express is having a surprisingly good season after a very ordinary 2007-08 season. Ponikarovsky, 28, has notched 14 goals and 16 assists for 30 points in 43 games this season, only five fewer than last season. He also has a good plus/minus differential at plus-3.

The bad:

Jason Blake: After a very slow start, Blake has produced a little bit more lately, but that's not sufficient for a player of his caliber. In 39 games in 2008-09, Blake has only ten goals and 14 assists for 24 points while getting plenty of ice-time. He has been made a healthy scratch a few times by Wilson to no good avail. His inflated salary (thank you John Ferguson!) makes him almost impossible to trade.

Mike Van Ryn: Acquired from the Florida Panthers in exchange for Bryan McCabe, Van Ryn has been injured most of the season. A talented offensive defenseman, Van Ryn has always been a band-aid boy and he is proving it this season having only played 17 games, notching three goals and six assists. He is currently out with a concussion since Dec. 19, 2008.

Lee Stempniak: Acquired from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for Alex Steen and Carlo Colaiacovo in early December, Stempniak has been nothing short of a deception. After registering 13 points in 14 games with the Blues, Stempniak has slumped mightily in Toronto, notching only three goals and five points in eight games.

The Ugly:

Ryan Hollweg: After 25 games with the Leafs, Hollweg is already on his way out. He has had as many suspensions as he had points (2) this season and with the arrival of Brad May and the emergence of Andre Deveaux, there is no more room for Hollweg. Don't forget the Leafs traded a fifth-round pick to get him...

Vesa Toskala/Curtis Joseph: One of the worst goaltending tandems in the league, they have been pretty bad for most part of the season. Toskala's 3.31 GAA is ranked 42nd among the qualified goaltenders this season. His disappointing .883 save percentage ranks hims 43rd in the league. He has allowed three goals or more 21 times this season. Joseph's stats are atrocious so I don't even want to look at them.

The Surprises:

Mikhail Grabovksi and Dominic Moore have been pleasant surprises so far in Leaf Land, the former showing flashes of brilliance of the ice with his speed and quick hands, while the latter proving to be a very reliable two-way centre who's good on face-offs.

It's now time for Brian Burke to make changes to start the reconstruction of a Maple Leafs team that's been very inconsistent this season. The lack of talent and depth is quite apparent and the Leafs must head NOW into Tavares' direction if they want a fast and painless rebuild.

What are your Good, Bad, and Ugly players?

Circle Your Calendar, Stralman

2009-01-14T21:06:00.002-05:00

March 5th will be a significant date for Anton Stralman.

Why?

He's going to be re-inserted into the Leafs' lineup, and finally serve the role he was intended to grasp as an offensive defenseman in the NHL.

That is, if Burke can manage to wedge Kaberle and/or Kubina from the lineup.

It's currently unclear whether the duo of defensemen have a serviceable future with the Leafs. While Burke claims he won't ask neither of the defensemen to waive their NTC's, I have a feeling this story will pick up some heat as the days inch closer to the Trade Deadline - especially when considering Burke's no-holds-barred attitude.

If either Kubina or Kaberle are subtracted from the lineup, do not expect an AHL defenseman like Jamie Sifers to fill the offensive void and especially if it's Kaberle who's booted out the door. Unless an offensive defenseman is headed to the Leafs on March 4th - which is a possibility considering the Jay-Bo rumours that have been swirling - Stralman will finally get his chance to perform as one of the go-to guys on the PP.

And it's about frigging time!

No disrespect to Kaberle, who has been a force on the PP (fun fact: Kaberle rhymes with powerplay) during his tenure with the Buds, but it's time to pass the torch. Stralman will have big shoes to fill, but it only makes sense to let him adapt with the rest of his teammates, who are each establishing their respective roles on creating a competitive Leafs team for the future.

Taking a glimpse at Stralman's production at the NHL level leaves a little to be desired considering his success in the past and once being compared to Nik Lidstrom.

But let's dwell a little deeper into the subject, shall we?

Here are Stralman's point totals during the 07-08 season:

50 GP, 3 G, 9 PTS, 12:48 TOI

Now, let's take a look at the 08-09 season:

21 GP, 1 G, 7 PTS, 15:51 TOI

An increase of just over three minutes of ice-time allowed Stralman to nearly match his point totals of last season in less than half the games. While his point production is low to begin with, it still serves as an indicator that Stralman is indeed coming along. Slowly, but surely.

If Stralman were to be appointed on the 1st PP unit, his development in the NHL would take a significant step forward. Since his arrival with the Buds, the Swedish-born defenseman has not been used effectively. I understand he has to earn his ice-time, but let's keep in mind players like Matt Stajan, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Mikhail Grabovski, and others, were only given top-six ice-time because there was no other skilled players to fill in the positions. To quote Cliff Fletcher, "Antropov is our only true top-six player." Similar to his teammates, Stralman first needs the opportunity to strut his stuff in order to realize his untapped potential. Until then, he'll be used as a fringe NHL defenseman.

In terms of his defensive game; well, there is none. Stralman is unreliable in his own end, and lacks any sort of physical game. But never say never. Stralman stands at 6 foot 1, 180 pounds. He's not exactly menacing, but if he were to implement an aggressive edge to his game, he could serve as an effective two-way defenseman. That said, Stralman's future with the Leafs is based largely from his offensive potential.

Until either Kaberle or Kubina are traded, however, Stralman's contributions will be limited - don't expect him to do much by replacing Sifers on the Leafs' defense.

If Brian Burke can work his magic wand, March 4th should be highlighted by the additions of prospects and draft picks.

It's important for the Leafs to realize, though, that they have a gem of a prospect who's ready to contribute.

They just have to provide him the necessary tools.

***

On a side note: Does anyone else get the feeling that Stralman may be packaged to acquire a defenseman at Deadline? I base this off absolutely nothing, but I can just see Burke sacrificing Stralman to sweeten the pot on potential trades. Perhaps for Jay Bouwmeester?

ronguillet@gmail.com

The Price Is Wrong For The Canadiens

2009-01-14T12:10:00.002-05:00

Carey Price has yet to play in 2009, having played his last game on December 30, 2008 in Tampa Bay, earning a 2-1 shootout win. Before going down with a lower-body injury, Price was having a great season, posting a 16-4-5 record with a good 2.30 GAA and a great .921 save percentage.

Originally expected to only miss one week with an unspecified lower-body ailment, Price has been shelved for over two weeks and there is no sign he will be back soon. Price was back on the ice Monday for about 20 minutes trying to recover from the injury (likely an ankle injury) that he sustained on December 30.

Price also missed part of December battling a cold and a another lower-body injury. It is believed Price won't be back before the All-start break as the Habs as extremely cautious with their young goalie and due to the strong play of Jaroslav Halak lately.

The Canadiens host Nashville tomorrow before leaving for a three-game road trip with stops in Ottawa, Atlanta and New Jersey. Since the Senators and the Thrashers are not NHL powerhouses, there is no need to rush things with Price, especially since he seems more fragile than the Canadiens expected.

Is the Price right or wrong?

Michael Ryder's Resurgence With The Boston Bruins

2009-01-13T16:40:00.005-05:00

After a disappointing season with the Montreal Canadiens, a change of scenery was prescribed for Ryder. Bruins' GM Peter Chiarelli decided to take a chance on the unrestricted free agent sniper this off-season, offering him a three-year $4M/year deal that Ryder could not refuse.

Coming out of the worst offensive season of his career, during which he only recorded 14 goals and 17 assists for 31 points in 70 games, Ryder has returned to his old self in Boston.

After 42 games this season, Ryder has already scored 17 goals and notched 14 assists for 31 points matching last year's totals with half the season to go. A three-time 25-goal scorer, Ryder leads the NHL with seven game-winning goals!

What's even more surprising is his plus-21 differential, which ranks him sixth in the league in a tie with teammate Zdeno Chara and Capitals' Alex Semin.

Ryder's reunion with former coach Claude Julien, who coached him with the Hull Olympiques for three seasons from 1997 to 2000, has been quite successful. Since Ryder, 28, was reunited by Julien with linesmates David Krecji and Blake Wheeler, the Bruins have been on a torrid pace. This line also boasts a combined plus-73 differential, the best in the league.

Ryder's signing gave the Bruins the scoring depth that they lacked last season, and the emergence of youngsters such as Milan Lucic, David Krecji, Phil Kessel and Blake Wheeler have complimented very well stars like Marc Savard and Zdeno Chara.

With Kessel, Sturm and Bergeron out for an extended period of time, the Bruins are counting on Michael Ryder to carry the offensive workload over the next few months.

Bob Gainey Potential Targets at The Trade Deadline

2009-01-12T23:26:00.004-05:00

During today's mid-season assessment of his team, GM Bob Gainey made it clear that is satisfied with his team, but he's looking to add depth on defense, likely a veteran defenseman with some offensive upside.

Let's look at the potential available defensemen at the trade deadline and what would Bob Gainey have to give in order to acquire their services.

Mathieu Schneider ATL $5,625,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

The former Habs defenseman is a power play specialist; however, injuries have affected his play this season with the Thrashers. Schneider, 39, has 8 points in 30 games and he has a -17 plus/minus differential. He has plenty of playoffs experience.

A low draft pick and a pro player (Begin for example) would do the trick.

Nicklas Havelid ATL $2,700,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Havelid, 35, is an experienced defensive d-man who jumps into the play at the right time. Havelid has 11 points in 43 games this season. He has a great +7 rating with a very bad team.

A 2nd rounder and a young defenseman would do the trick.

Adrian Aucoin CGY $4,000,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Aucoin is a good puck-handling veteran defenseman that notched 35 points last season. He has 16 points in 41 games with the Flames this season.

The Flames are seeking help at forward and a young defenseman in exchange for Aucoin.

Jordan Leopold COL $1,500,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Leopold, 28, is a good offensive defenseman with size and grit. He has 15 points in 42 games this season with Colorado. Once traded in exchange for Alex Tanguay, Leopold has a very affordable contract and he would be a very good fit on the Habs defense.

The Avalanche are looking for offensive help due to the injuries to Sakic and Stastny.

Jay Bouwmeester FLA $4,875,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Bouwmeester, 25, is a franchise defenseman that is not happy in Florida due to their lack of success. Jay Bo has a great season notching 23 points in 42 games. The Panthers are still in the playoffs hunt, so it's unlikely Jacques Martin will deal him now. However, if the Panthers falter and are out of contention at the deadline, look for them to unpack Bouwmeester instead of losing for nothing via free agency.

The package would have to be significant to land Jay Bo. Something like a 1st rounder, a 2nd rounder, a young forward (D'Agostini) and a young defenseman (O'Byrne) would be Jacques Martin's asking price.

Sean O'Donnell LA $1,250,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

O'Donnell, 37, is an experienced defensive defenseman with grit. He has mentored young Drew Doughty this season with great success. O'Donnell is the kind of tough d-man the Habs lacked in last year's playoffs series against Boston and Philly.

The Kings likely seek a 3rd rounder and a prospect for O'Donnell.

Marc-Andre Bergeron MIN $1,254,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Bergeron, 28, is a power play specialist with defensive shortcomings. He has 16 points in 31 games this season. Bergeron would instantly bolster the Canadiens' power play with his booming shot from the blue line.

The asking price would likely be a middle round pick and a defensive defenseman.

Ville Koistinen NSH $750,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Koistinen, 26, is an underrated offensive defenseman that is a good on the power play. He has never received much ice-time in Nashville because of players like Weber, Zanon and Suter.

A cheap alternative, Koistinens' asking price would be a middle round pick and a young forward.

Derek Morris PHX $3,916,000/year, contract ends in 2008-2009:

Morris, 30, is a right-handed gritty defenseman. In 40 games this season, Morris only has eight points, therefore making easier to acquire.

If the Coyotes are out of contention at the deadline, Morris' asking price would likely be a young defenseman and 4th round pick.

Tomas Kaberle could also be an interesting option, but I highly doubt Brian Burke would trade him within the division, especially to the Habs.

Which d-man should Gainey try to acquire to bolster his thin blue line?

Will That Be Shipped Poni Express?

2009-01-12T21:31:00.000-05:00

* I can't let you read this blog without first apologizing for the title. Shameful, just shameful. *

Alexei Ponikarovsky is in the midst of a career season.

14 goals and 30 points in 42 games played – on pace for 26 goals and 58 points.

But who is responsible for this sudden jump in production?

Ladies and gentleman, I present to you the so-called back-stabbing, heartless monster that is Mats Sundin.

While Sundin may be regarded as a traitor by most Leafs fans, his skill and abilities as a sizable forward has rubbed off on Ponikarovsky – and Antropov – in a positive way.

Puck control. This is the main contributor to Ponikarovsky's success. He excels in shielding opponents from the puck with his large frame – 6 foot 4, 220 pounds to be exact – and quick movements around the boards. These are traits he's acquired by serving as Sundin's linemate for the last few years – and I'm not insinuating he's the next Sundin, but his persistence around the net is a sight to behold for Leafs fans.

Defensively, Ponikarovsky is not too shabby either. On a team consumed of minus players, 'Poni' registers a +3 rating, good enough to join a group of only six on the Leafs' roster. Where Ponikarovsky falters, however, is in physical presence. He's got the size to punish his opponents, but judging from his last four years of play, physical dominance appears to be nothing more than a pipe dream.

Looking ahead to the Trade Deadline, I can't help but drivel at the thought of Ponikarovsky's value. Usually between the 35-45 point vicinity, the Ukrainian sniper will be regarded as a 20-goal, 50-point player come March 4th – barring a drastic drop-off in production, that is.

With a cap hit of 2.105 million dollars, Ponikarovsky is an affordable, young (28) sniper whose contract terms – 2 years remaining – will only sweeten the pot for potential suitors.

All things considered, I believe Ponikarovsky can garner the Leafs a…

Throw in some dramatic suspense…

2^nd-Round Pick.

Taking into account the Leafs lost their 2^nd rounder to the Isles in a package for Luke Schenn, I'd swap Ponikarovsky for a 2^nd in a heartbeat.

In a perfect world, I'd be giddy like a school girl if Ponikarovsky, Antropov, Kaberle, Kubina and Toskala are all traded.

I know what you're thinking, but it helps me sleep at night.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Bruins put Kessel on IR with mononucleosis

2009-01-12T19:16:00.002-05:00

Boston, MA (Sports Network) - The Boston Bruins placed forward Phil Kessel on injured reserve Monday, as the emerging young star is battling mononucleosis.

Kessel had played in all 42 of Boston's games this season, posting a team-best 24 goals with 17 assists for the top club in the Eastern Conference.

In other roster moves, the club assigned defenseman Matt Lashoff and goaltender Kevin Regan to Providence of the AHL, while recalling goaltender Tuukka Rask and forward Martin St. Pierre from Providence.

Lashoff posted one assist in 13 games with the Bruins this season, and St. Pierre picked up a goal and two assists in nine games with Boston in previous call-ups.

Copycat Kubina

2009-01-10T20:55:00.000-05:00

In the event of Tomas Kaberle waiving his NTC on March 4^th, I’d be willing to bet that his fellow countryman, and teammate, Pavel Kubina, would follow suit.

If the Leafs’ top two offensive defensemen are subtracted from the lineup, not only will a wealthy amount of skill and potential be included to their farm system, but it’ll pave the way for a top 5 pick at the 2009 Draft.

Kaberle, who currently has 3 goals and 26 points, is on pace for yet another 50-point season. His countryman, Kubina, is on pace for an impressive 16 goals and 40 points.

Considering these stats, it’s no secret just how impactful Kaberle decision will be regarding his NTC.

Kubina, who also has a NTC, first joined the Leafs in the summer of 2006. Among his list of possible suitors, Kubina chose the city of Toronto largely due to one reason only… Kaberle.

Initially, Kaberle was stubborn towards the subject of waiving his NTC and abandoning his contract to the Leafs. Insert a newly implemented –and much needed – rebuilding plan, and Kaberle’s views are suddenly different. While he would be content with staying in Toronto, Kaberle told reporters that he’d be willing to listen to Burke if he proposed a trade to him. Carrying a 4.25 million dollar contract, you can bet there will be tons of interest for the services of #15.

Kubina, on the other hand, comes with a 5 million dollar price tag. Not terribly overpaid considering some of the contracts that were dished out last summer, but it’s still a hefty contract to submerge into a lineup. Still, that didn’t stop the San Jose Sharks at last year’s Trade Deadline. Kubina’s decision – one that I finally stopped shedding tears over – vetoed a trade that could have potentially brought Steve Bernier and a draft pick to the Leafs.

Oh, how depressing that Trade Deadline truly was.

But now, perhaps from the pity of the hockey gods, Kaberle is open to trade talks. And if he is willing to move, don’t be surprised if Kubina follows suit. After all, Kubina is 31 years of age and has nothing to gain by playing for the Leafs’ organization at this point.

In a season where reaching the playoffs was the primary goal, it’s understandable how a player doesn’t want to abandon his club, and team followers, to pursue another team. Now, however, things have changed. The majority of the Leafs’ fan base is rooting for a chance at selecting John Tavares, and considering how crappy the Isles have played this season, the Leafs are going to have to turn it down a notch if they wish to grasp that holy, godly, and miraculous 1^st overall pick.

So, I think I speak for all of Leafs Nation when I say:

Please, Kaberle? Please!?

ronguillet@gmail.com

Claude Julien to coach Eastern All-Star team

2009-01-10T14:00:00.003-05:00

BRUINS’ JULIEN, SHARKS’ McLELLAN WILL SERVE AS ALL-STAR HEAD COACHES

NEW YORK (Jan. 10, 2009)—Under the selection process for All-Star coaches, the head coach and assistant coach for the Eastern Conference All-Stars are the head coaches of the two teams with the top points percentages in the Eastern Conference through games of tonight, the halfway point of the 2008-09 regular season. The head coach and assistant coach of the Western Conference All-Stars are the head coaches of the two teams with the best points percentages in the Western Conference.

Julien has guided Boston to its best start since 1929-30 with a points percentage of .780, posting 64 points in 41 games (30-7-4); the Bruins are assured of having the Conference’s top points percentage through Saturday. Julien will make his first career NHL All-Star coaching appearance in the city where he coached the Canadiens for 159 games over three seasons from 2002-03 to 2005-06.

Head coaches Bruce Boudreau of the Washington Capitals (27-12-3, .679) and Guy Carbonneau of the Canadiens (24-10-6, .675) still are in contention for the Eastern Conference assistant coaching berth, which will go to the winner of tonight’s game between the clubs at Montreal.

McLellan, who has guided the Sharks (30-5-5, .813) to the League’s top record in his rookie NHL season as head coach, clinched the West head coaching berth with a 4-1 victory at Edmonton Friday. He becomes the first NHL rookie head coach to garner an All-Star Game head coaching position since Florida’s Doug MacLean in 1995-96.

Head coach Mike Babcock of the Detroit Red Wings (28-7-5, .763) will serve as McLellan’s assistant, reversing their roles with the Red Wings from 2005-06 through 2007-08 when Detroit won 50-plus games for three consecutive seasons and captured the Stanley Cup last June.

No Untouchables + Kaberle and his NTC

2009-01-10T00:08:00.001-05:00

Brian Burke made his first two moves as Leafs GM – acquiring Brad May from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a conditional 6^th round pick in 2010, and assigning Nikolai Kulemin to the Toronto Marlies.

Minor moves, but perhaps Burke has finished analyzing his team and is ready to reshape the roster to his liking.

With the NHL Trade Deadline fast approaching, just under two months now, determining the players’ market value is the first step in order to reshape this club effectively – let’s be honest, trades haven’t been one the Leafs’ strongest suits these past few years… don’t worry, I’ll spare you the list.

Looking at the Leafs roster, it’s fairly evident there are no untouchables. However, Tomas Kaberle, Pavel Kubina, Alexei Ponikarovsky – who is on pace for 26 goals and 59 points – and Nikolai Antropov could all bring in some quality assets, hopefully in the form of prospects and draft picks. And if goaltender Vesa Toskala could find the game that made him critically acclaimed in 07-08, then the Leafs will possess an important bargaining chip.

Aside from Kaberle, who, for it’s worth, will make his fourth all-star game appearance, the Leafs are short of players who are capable of garnering high-quality assets via the trade route. That said, it’s important for Burke to handle the Kaberle situation carefully. Stating publicly that he’s not wanted, ala Cliff’s approach on McCabe, will not ensure proper value for the services of #15.

When asked if he would consider waiving his NTC this season, Kaberle replied with an interesting comment:

”It’s pretty much with Brian if he’s going to talk to me or not,” Kaberle told the Sun. “I haven’t talked to the GM and my agent didn’t talk to him. Let’s leave it at that for now.” (Toronto Sun)

My, how things have changed.

It hasn’t even been a year since Kaberle exercised his NTC, rejecting a trade that would have brought Jeff Carter and a 1^st round pick to the Leafs.

Depressing, I know. But fear not, my fellow Leafs companions.

Kaberle’s offensive awareness, and PP-saaviness has him on pace for a second straight 50-point season (6 G, 52 PTS compared to his 8 G and 53 PTS last season). While his defensive game is suspect, it’s no secret that he’s most effective in the oppositions zone. Those who express interest in his services will be in need of a boost on the PP, so the lack of a consistent two-way game will not affect his value. While a similar package to the Carter+1st round may be unlikely, it’s not totally out of the ball park. If Kaberle manages to up his game with even more offensive prowess, I get the feeling we’ll be licking our lips at the rumours come March 4. Excuse my Sudbury Wolves bias, but if we happen to acquire another 1st round pick, I would jump at the chance of drafting Marcus Foligno - it would have to be late round, but I’m telling you, this kid has the ability to spark plug an arena in seconds, whether it’s from monster hits, adrenaline pumping fights or rattling the opposition, and he also knows his way in the offensive end.

If Burke plays his cards right, and manages to trade with a future-first attitude, the available players at his disposal can generate a wealthy return of prospects and draft picks - and god knows we need the latter.

March 4th. The day I avoid all interactions with the outside world.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Grabovski suspended three games after incident

2009-01-09T10:51:00.003-05:00

From Sportsnet,

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mikhail Grabovski has been suspended for three games after shoving an offical Thursday night. Sources tell Hockeycentral the Leafs are contemplating appealing the league decision.

Grabovski received a game misconduct for shoving a linesman late in the third period of Thursday’s 6-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre.

Grabovski didn't appear to show much regret for the incident with Kostitsyn, but he did admit he lost his head when he waved his arms and gestured to the sellout crowd of 21,273.

Pacioretty and Gorges: A Look At Bob Gainey's Crafty Move From Two Years Ago

2009-01-09T10:34:00.006-05:00

On February 25, 2007, the Montreal Canadiens veteran defenseman Craig Rivet and a fifth round selection in 2008 were sent to the San Jose Sharks for young defenseman Josh Gorges and a first round selection in 2007 (Max Pacioretty).

Now a member of the Buffalo Sabres, Rivet helped the Sharks go deep in the playoffs the past two seasons — even though they weren't able to make it to the finals. In 91 games with the Sharks, Rivet scored six goals and 37 assists for 43 points.

He was later traded this summer along with San Jose's seventh round selection in 2010 to the Buffalo Sabres for a second round choice in 2009 and a second round choice in 2010.

Meanwhile, Josh Gorges blossomed into a very reliable defenseman over his two years in Montreal. At first, things were not quite easy for Gorges as he was a frequent healthy scratch for most of the 2007 season.

However, last season he finally made it as a regular rearguard and played 62 games, notching nine assists beside his partner Francis Bouillon.

Gorges, 24, has seen an increase of ice-time this season being used in every situation (even on the powerplay), and his statistics have improved accordingly. Gorges already has one goal and seven assists for eight points in 40 games. He has a team-best +18 plus/minus differential good for the tenth rank league-wide.

The key element of that trade is Max Pacioretty. He finally made it to the NHL this season, thanks to numerous injuries to key Habs players.

He registered 15 goals, 24 assists and 39 points in 37 games after a great season with the University of Michigan: Ann Arbor last year. After Michigan, Pacioretty signed his first NHL contract, a three year entry level pact, this summer with the Canadiens.

Recalled from Hamilton on January 1st, 2009, Pacioretty scored his first NHL goal on his first shot on his four to one loss against New Jersey. Now playing on a line with veterans Alex Kovalev and Tomas Plekanec, Max Pax has tallied two goals and one assist for three points after only four games.

Pacioretty is a good power forward with above average skills — a good skater with quick feet. He handles the puck very well, and he has a good wrist shot with quick release. His size and tenacity allow him to drive to the net consistently.

Max Pacioretty will likely be this year's Sergei Kostitsyn even when Koivu, Higgins and Tanguay come back from their injuries.

From: www.nhl-northeast.com

NHL Northeast All-Star Selections

2009-01-09T08:51:00.003-05:00

Montreal quarter of Alex Kovalev, Carey Price, Mike Komisarek and Andrei Markov were elected by the fans as starters.

Buffalo's Thomas Vanek, Boston's Marc Savard, and Ottawa's Dany Heatley are the Northeast division forwards.

Boston's Zdeno Chara and Toronto's veteran Tomas Kaberle will be the defensemen.

Boston's Tim Thomas will share the workload with Price.

The Emergence of Maxim Lapierre For The Canadiens

2009-01-07T18:55:00.004-05:00

Centering the Canadiens' newly-formed energy line of Guillaume Latendresse and Tom Kostopoulos, Maxim Lapierre has emerged as a pretty valuable asset for the Montreal Canadiens.

Lapierre, 23, earned the December Molson Cup given to the best player during the month. The St-Leonard native won the Molson Cup for the first time in his career.

Lapierre recorded eleven points in Molson Cup standings after being voted first star of the game once and getting two second-star selections. He notched four goals and three assists for seven points in 13 games.

In December, he even had a “Gordie Howe hat trick” (a goal, an assist and a fighting major penalty) against the Rangers, which the Canadiens face again tonight in Madison Square Garden.

However, Lapierre's not only contributing offensively, he also leads the Habs in face-offs winning percentage with 56%, a 7% increase over last season. Lapierre also regularly kills penalties with linemate Tom Kostopoulos or grinder Steve Begin.

Lapierre, who plays an intense, gritty and strong all-round game, has top notch skating and speed with decent size; he is a player that knows what it takes to win. And now with the great complicity he has with Latendresse and Kostopoulos, Carbonneau is not afraid to use them in every situation, even late during tight games.

But, will Lapierre get as much of ice time when Saku Koivu returns on Saturday against the Capitals, or will he play sporadically on a 4th line once again undermining his blossoming talent?

The Sens GM story

2009-01-07T18:04:00.004-05:00

First off, I'm glad to join this site as the Sens blogger and I hope all of you enjoy my blogs.

But I'll stop wasting your time on to the blog-

Well the Sens are four points out of last place in the league with 32 points and looks like they will contend with the Thrashers, Lightning and Islanders for the battle of Tavares and Hedman.

This time last year there was lots of talk of fans wanting the Leafs to tank so they can draft Stamkos or Doughty, well they ended up with Schenn, who has worked out great for them so far. But my point is leafs nation was split between cheering for a playoff berth and cheering for the leafs to tank. So my question is whats the feeling in Sens Nation?

Myself, even as a longtime Sens fan, I can only hope for a major shake-up for this organization, every game I cheer for a Sens win, but I am realistic. This team needs to have an infusion of youth and new talent.

While I truly believe Hartsburg and his staff is the right team for the job, I think it might be time to let Murray go.

Right now there is tons of talk around the SBP that Melnyk and Murray aren't seeing eye to eye.

There is huge talk that Melnyk won't let Murray make a trade, and on the other side there's talk that Melnyk is pressuring Murray to make a move now. So either way Murray and Melnyk aren`t on the same page and something has to give. Obviously Melnyk isn`t going anywhere and that Murray has fallen out of grace in Melnyk`s eyes.

So it really is a matter of time before Murray is on the outside looking in. Talk to anyone working in SBP, Sens organization and Kanata and they will tell you one of the 2 situations.

There is a chance Murray stays on till the end of the year, but my assumption is a new GM will be in place before the draft. So who is a possible replacement? Well there are several that come to mind that would be a great fit.

Pat Quinn - I'm not a big fan of Quinn based on his history in Toronto, and while I do discredit his international achievements because its really hard to lose on international ice with the mass talent available in Canada and he would have lost if not for the inexperience of the Russian Kids and coaching staff. But if history shows anything the winning world junior coaches go to the NHL pretty quick i.e. Sutter and Hartsburg. Quinn has the numbers and experience to reshape a broken Sens Club

Pat Burns - Based solely on the rumour that he's itching to get back into the NHL, while he has more experience coaching, he may have enough knowledge from the sidelines to rebuild. He is a great hockey mind and he may be just what the Sens Army needs.

Doug MacLean - The man who commanded the ship in Columbus during the early years and was fired when Columbus couldn't get the job done. While he isn't a trade wizard, he is a great hockey mind and very talented when draft day comes around.

Jim Rutherford - Is available when this season ends, like MacLean, Rutherford has great hockey sense and was the runner-up for the Toronto gig. What better way to show the world Toronto made the wrong decision by leading their rival against them.

Steve Yzerman - While I doubt he's on the list, I figured I should put him on the list because he is a future GM.

Jay Feaster - The odd man out in Tampa, he's been through the same situation in Tampa as Ottawa is in now, unfortunately he got the axe before he could finish his plans. The plus to Feaster is he had a plan in place to fix Tampa, so he could make it work in Ottawa.

Ken Holland - Now before Red Wing fans harp on me, this is only based off of Holland being in Ottawa for the WJC and meeting casually with Melnyk during that time.
------------------------------------------------------
So what are your thoughts on the situation in Ottawa? Is tanking for the best? What have heard Ottawa fans? Who would you like to see running Ottawa?

Ruutu suspended two games for biting incident

2009-01-07T15:42:00.001-05:00

The National Hockey League has suspended Ottawa Senators forward Jarkko Ruutu two games following a biting incident Tuesday night in Buffalo.

Although the video evidence appears to conclusively show Ruutu bit the gloved thumb of Sabres tough guy Andrew Peters, after the Sens 4-2 loss Ruutu denied that to be the case. The altercation took place in the first period after Peters started an exchange with Ruutu by rubbing his glove into Ruutu's face.

"It's a pretty goofy thing that happened," Peters said. "It's not the injury, it's the incident. Just the fact that happened it's unfortunate. It's not good for the game of hockey."

Ruutu, who was suspended for two games in November, now is considered a repeat offender under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

He forfeits more than $31,000 in salary with the money going to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Ruutu will miss Thursday's game at Boston and Saturday's game against the Rangers. He will be eligible to return Tuesday against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Source: TSN

Maple Leafs acquire Brad May from Ducks

2009-01-07T12:43:00.003-05:00

The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired enforcer Brad May from the Anaheim Ducks. In exchange, the Ducks receive a conditional sixth-round draft pick in 2010. This is Bryan Burke's first move as Leafs GM.

May, 37, is in the final year of a two-year contract that pays him $600,000 this season. In 20 games with Anaheim this season, May has five assists and 28 PIM.

In 963 career games with Anaheim, Vancouver, Phoenix, Buffalo and Colorado, the Toronto native has 285 points and 2,121 penalty minutes. It's the third time that May and Burke will be reunited together (Anaheim and Vancouver).

The lack of toughness and grit has been obvious in the past few games and Burke wanted to rectify the problem as soon as possible.

Simple, but efficient, move by Burke. The acquisition of May might mean rookie enforcer Andre Deveaux will be sent back to the AHL soon. Meanwhile, rookie Nikolai Kulemin has been assigned earlier today to the Toronto Marlies.

In 40 games with the Maple Leafs this season, Kulemin registered seven goals and 14 points.

Murray and Hartsburg on the way out?

2009-01-07T11:02:00.005-05:00

One loss too many?

Craig Hartsburg may well have coached his last game for the Ottawa Senators.

According to the Journal de Montréal, owner Eugene Melnyk was waiting for the result of last night's game between the Senators and Sabres before making a decision.

The Senators lost 4-2, their third in a row and a 25th loss this season.

General Manager Bryan Murray would also be fired as a result of the Senators underachievement.

Melnyk may have already decided on Murray and Hartburg's successors. They would be none other than Pat Quinn, recently head coach of the WJC team which won a fifth consecutive gold medal and Bob Nicholson as GM.

Though Quinn's selection makes some sense, choosing Nicholson is surprising. Hockey Canada's president and chief executive has no experience at the NHL level. Since 1998, he has managed all the men's and women's national and Olympic teams.

No one should be surprised at Quinn's return behind the bench. The 64-year old has made it clear he has wanted to return to the NHL after a two-year break and also wanted to use the world juniors as a springboard to the NHL. It's unlikely he thought the dive into NHL waters would come so quickly, however.

Source: Radio Canada

I have been saying for a while, since GM Murray can't find a trade partner, the Sens ownership will likely pull the plug on him and his coach Craig Hartsburg. The Senators are not going anywhere this season, and it's time for a major overhaul of this team.

PK Subban Showing His Incredible Talent

2009-01-06T18:59:00.018-05:00

After an extraordinary World Junior Championship where he was arguably one of the best players for Canada, P.K. Subban garnered more attention from scouts, media and fans (especially the Habs' fans) than any other player in the tournament. Subban performed better than he ever has in his career and he surprisingly emerged as the top offensive defensemen on Team Canada.

At only 5'10", 200 lbs., the swift and quick Subban is an offensive diamond in the rough. A right-handed shooter, Subban is a great weapon on the power play. He is also energetic, enthusiastic and relentless.

The Canadiens' 43rd overall pick in 2007, Subban had terrific 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons (15 G, 41 A, 56 PTS—2006-07; 8 G, 38 A, 46 PTS—2007-08). This season with the Belleville Bulls, he has already notched 37 points (4 G, 33 A) in only 29 games.

With his recent performances, Subban might have passed a few defensemen such as Ryan McDonagh, David Fischer, and Mathieu Carle on the Canadiens' prospects list.

He will be given every opportunity to make the team during the 2009 training camp next fall as the Canadiens are in dire need of a power play specialist who can shoot the puck and move the puck well.

Jason Pomminville about blogging

2009-01-06T13:57:00.003-05:00

Click here to watch Jason Pomminville talking about his blog with the Buffalo Sabres.

Leafs prospect and junior star DiDomenico traded

2009-01-06T11:13:00.002-05:00

THE CANADIAN PRESS

BOUCHERVILLE, Que. – One day after winning gold with the Canadian juniors, forward Chris DiDomenico has been traded to the Drummondville Voltigeurs by the Saint John Sea Dogs.

Going to the Sea Dogs in exchange are goaltender Simon Giroux, winger Mathieu Gingras, a first-round pick in 2009 and a second-round pick in 2010.

DiDomenico adds to a potent Voltigeurs offence that leads the QMJHL in goals with 197.

The sixth-round pick (164th overall) of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2007 NHL draft, DiDomenico has 75 goals and 129 assists in 166 games with the Sea Dogs. This season, he has 11 goals and 23 assists in 26 games with Saint John.

"Chris has been a great player for us these last few seasons and it has been an absolute pleasure to have coached him," Saint John GM and head Jacques Beaulieu said in a statement. "He has a very bright future ahead of him, and we wish him nothing but the best as he continues down what promises to be a highly successful career path."

In 34 games this season, Gingras has seven goals, four assists and 14 penalty minutes. The 6-foot, 170-pounder from Woodbrige, Ont., was originally selected by Drummondville in the third round (53rd overall) of the 2007 QMJHL entry draft.

The QMJHL trade deadline is Thursday at noon.

Rivet likely back tonight for Sabres

2009-01-06T08:58:00.003-05:00

Captain defenseman Craig Rivet is ready to return as early as tonight when the Sabres take on the Senators at the HSBC arena. Rivet has now missed eleven games with a shoulder injury.

In 21 games, Rivet has five assists this season. He was named the team captain during training camp.

Canadiens acquire TJ Kemp for pick

2009-01-05T17:19:00.002-05:00

From the Penguins:

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS TRADE T.J. KEMP TO MONTREAL IN EXCHANGE FOR CONDITIONAL 2010 DRAFT PICK

The Pittsburgh Penguins have traded defenseman T.J. Kemp to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a conditional seventh round draft pick in the 2010 Entry Draft, it was announced today by Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero.

Kemp, 27, has played 22 games for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League (AHL) this season. He has posted nine points (one goal, eight assists) along with 22 penalty minutes.

The 5-11, 197-pound defenseman has split the past four seasons between the Peoria Rivermen, Iowa Stars, Milwaukee Admirals, Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Manchester Monarchs, Springfield Falcons and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the AHL. Kemp has appeared in 174 career games in the AHL, registering 93 points (14 goals, 79 assists) and 126 penalty minutes.

The native of Pickering, Ontario signed with Pittsburgh as a free agent on July 8, 2008.

Montreal Canadiens: Why The Kostitsyn Brothers Should Stick Together

2009-01-05T12:32:00.008-05:00

Reunited for yesterday's match-up against the Florida Panthers, the Kostitsyn brothers, Andrei and Sergei, sparked the Habs' offense to a close 6-5 OT win over Peter DeBoer's team.

Lining up on a line with veteran Robert Land, the "Mullet line" produced three of the Canadiens' goals. Lang finished the afternoon with one goal and one assist (+2), while Andrei notched two goals (+2) and Sergei added two assists (+4).

With Alex Tanguay out for an extended period of time, the Canadiens desperately need to find secondary scoring to help ease the pressure on Kovalev's line.

Ever since they were kids, the Kostitsyns played hockey together at every level. That is why they play so well when reunited.

Sergei, who is more of a passer, has a great vision, solid skating abilities and a great hockey sense. Sergei also kills penalties with Robert Lang because of his great defensive awareness. He can also man the point on the power play.

Andrei, who is more of a shooter, is blessed with a quick release and a heavy shot. His has excellent puck-handling abilities and his strong on the puck.

As you can see the brothers compliment each other perfectly because of their different sets of skills, that is why they should stick together for a while, whether it is with Robert Lang, Saku Koivu and Tomas Plekanec.

As Carbonneau said, "Andrei shoots more when he plays with Sergei instead of Alex Kovalev, when he plays with Kovy he tries to give him the puck too much". Andrei added that he's more confortable playing with his brother.

I believe Carbo has finally understood that the brothers should stick together for a while now...

Luke Schenn likely back tomorrow

2009-01-05T10:00:00.002-05:00

Leafs defenceman Luke Schenn, who has missed the past 12 games with torn knee ligaments, will likely return to the lineup tomorrow against the Florida Panthers. Schenn has 2 assists in 27 games for the Leafs in his rookie campaign.

The Maple Leafs are also hoping that Jeremy Williams (shoulder) and Matt Stajan (eye problems) will be available for the team’s two-game road trip later this week.

Senators' Cody Bass out for the season

2009-01-05T09:37:00.003-05:00

Centre Cody Bass will miss the reminder of the season with a season-ending shoulder injury.

He injured his shoulder in a fight with Calgary's Eric Nystrom last week.

In 12 games with Ottawa this season, Bass is pointless and he has 15 PIM.

Béliveau taken to a hospital

2008-12-29T16:18:00.001-05:00

Canadiens legend Jean Béliveau has been hospitalized after falling ill on Monday.

Habs vice-president of communications Donald Beauchamp said relatives had confirmed reports Béliveau has taken ill, but did not have details on the severity of the ailment.

According to reports, the former Canadiens captain felt ill while attending the funeral of father Paul Aquin.

Béliveau played 18 seasons for the Habs and won 10 Stanley Cups before retiring in 1971.

More details to come.

Source : Habs Inside Out

Around the Senators

2008-12-29T16:13:00.005-05:00

Ottawa Senators' centre Cody Bass suffered a shoulder injury in a fight against Calgary's Eric Nystrom on Saturday. Bass will be out the rest of the Sens road trip and will be re-evaluated when the teams gets home New Year's Eve.

The Senators, who have lost their last twelve road games will face the Oilers tomorrow in Edmonton. Jesse Winchester, Filip Kuba and Anton Volchenkov all missed yesterday's 3-0 loss in Vancouver, a game during which they only managed 18 shots.

Now that the roster freeze is over, GM Bryan Murray will desperately try to make a move to improve his lifeless team before it's too late!

Matt Stajan out with eye injury

2008-12-28T13:42:00.002-05:00

Matt Stajan spent Sunday in a hospital with an eye injury and he will be lost to the Toronto Maple Leafs for at least a week as the result of a rowdy soccer game.

Stajan, the Leafs’ No. 1 centre, was hit on the eye with a soccer ball before the Leafs’ practice on Saturday during a warmup exercise common to NHL teams. Players gather in a circle and try to keep the ball in the air as long as possible by kicking or heading it. If a player allows the ball to hit the floor he is out of the game and the game ends when no players are left.
"He's out for a while, at least a week," the coach said after the Leafs' game-day skate on Sunday in preparation for a game against the Washington Capitals.
Source: Globe and Mail

Update

2008-12-28T13:34:00.003-05:00

Hey guys,

Sorry for the lack of updates recently. I was hit hard by the flu bug during the past few days preventing me to do anything! I'll be back tomorrow with a few articles.

Fred

Leafs Must Be Patient with Pogge

2008-12-23T23:17:00.000-05:00

Justin Pogge debuted his NHL career with a .905 SV% and a 2.00 GAA.

Not too shabby.

Pogge displayed an active glove hand, quick lateral movement, solid positioning and decent rebound control. An aspect of his game I was specifically impressed with was his ability to make himself look big. Possessing a 6'3, 205 pound frame, Pogge's size is best utilized when screened or making the save through a crowd – an aspect Vesa Toskala was not blessed with.

The prospect of appointing Pogge as the starting goaltender is an enticing one. The Leafs are a rebuilding squad that have granted rookies a vast amount of roster spots. The timing seems perfect to insert Pogge to the lineup and have him debut his career as the Leafs' starting goaltender.

But hold on. Let's consider the consequence to this decision.

Toskala's value. If Toskala loses his job to a 22-year old, the Leafs can forget about bringing in a potential 1^st round pick for the Finnish goaltender.

Considering the Leafs' situation between the pipes, there is no point in playing Pogge right now. If the Leafs wait until either the NHL Trade Deadline or the 09/10 regular season, Pogge will still be there, and just as ready.

Despite Toskala's struggles this season, he is still a coveted asset in this league. A goaltender of his stature is best suited on a Cup contending team. Not a rebuilding team.

With just under three months until the Trade Deadline, it would be in the Leafs' best interest to utilize that time by letting Toskala regain his form. In the event of Toskala's dominance being rekindled, the Leafs could not only attain a 1^st round pick, but prospects as well. If he continues to struggle with consistency, his value will still be higher than awarding his job to a young goaltending prospect.

The Leafs must exercise a quality they have not been familiar with in the past few decades.

Patience.

ronguillet@gmail.com

Can this Road Trip End Ottawa's Playoff Chances?

2008-12-23T19:25:00.004-05:00

As they sit in the bottom of the NHL Northeast near Christmas time they go on an eight game road trip because the world juniors are in town. 6 of the 8 teams they play are in the playoffs as we speak. Ottawa needs to come out with at least 6 wins in this road trip to keep themselves in good position. They cannot come out of this below 500 in the eight games. They are eight points away from 8th spot. If they can win 6th they should be around 4 to 6 points away but if they go below 500 they can be around 12 points away if not more.

If this happens what can we expect from Ottawa? Will they try to get better and add a piece or two, namely a defenseman, possibly a goalie, or will they trade for prospects and draft picks. They would probably not go for draft picks or prospects because it will say they are rebuilding and most likely their GM Bryan Murray would be fired. See them if they lose most of the road trip's games, they might really look at trading Spezza.

NHL Northeast booms and busts

2008-12-23T12:02:00.009-05:00

Just before the Christmas Holidays is now a good time to look at the early part of the season to identify the booms and busts for the NHL Northeast Division teams.

Boston Bruins:
Booms:
Phil Kessel = 21 goals, 16 assists, 37 points, +15
Kessel has already matched his career-best 37 points and is on pace for 52 goals and 92 points.
He's thriving on a line with Marc Savard and Milan Lucic. Kessel is currently on a 18-game scoring streak.
David Krejci = 12 goals, 24 assists, 36 points, +18
Krejci has easily surpassed his career-best 27 points of last season. He's having great success with Blake Wheeler and Michael Ryder. He currently has 27 points in the past 15 games.
Tim Thomas and Manny Fernandez = They have combined for 24 wins in only 33 games. They also boast a great 2.12 GAA to go with a phenomenal .930 save percentage.

Busts:
Marco Sturm = 7 goals, 6 assists, 13 points, +9
Granted, Sturm has missed most of the season due to a concussion and a knee injury, but the left-winger was supposed to be a critical element of the Bruins' offense after notching 56 points last season.

Buffalo Sabres:
Booms:
Thomas Vanek = 24 goals, 6 assists, 30 points, -1
Vanek currently sits second in goals scored behind Jeff Carter. He's been a force the whole season for the Sabres.

Busts:
Maxim Afinogenov = 1 goal, 9 assists, 10 points, -14
Afinogenov is having the worst season of his career. He definitely needs a change of scenery to regain his confidence, but who will take a chance on this underachiever?
Tim Connolly = 2 goals, 5 assists, 7 points in only 6 games
The Band-Aid boy has never been able to stay healthy for extended periods of time in the past few years. Connolly's career may come to an abrupt end as a result.

Montreal Canadiens:
Booms:
Robert Lang = 11 goals, 14 assists, 25 points, +10
When GM Bob Gainey acquired Lang's services before the season, he was slotted as the Habs third-line centre. Now that Koivu is injured and Plekanec is slumping, the Canadiens need Lang's offensive skills and leadership to keep winning.
Josh Gorges = 1 goal, 5 assists, 6 points, +14
Gorges has been the Habs' most steady d-man this season, especially during Komisarek's absence. Not known for his offensive abilities, Gorges has been very reliable this season, while seeing an increase of ice time over last season.

Busts:
Tomas Plekanec = 6 goals, 7 assists, 13 points
Coming out of a very good season, Plekanec was slated to be the Canadiens first-line centre. Instead, Plekanec is having problems finding the scoresheet, having only two goals and one assist in the last 21 games.
Chris Higgins = 5 goals, 4 assists, 9 points
After missing the first few games with a lower body injury, Higgins had problems finding his groove and his scoring touch. Save for his hat-trick against Ottawa, Higgins has not met expectations after notching 52 points last season. He is currently sidelined four to six weeks with a separate shoulder.

Ottawa Senators:
Booms:
Alex Auld = He has 9 wins and 8 losses, but his posting an excellent 2.34 GAA and a good .915 save percentage. Without Auld's resurgence, the Senators would be dead last in the Eastern Conference.

Busts:
Mike Fisher = 3 goals, 8 assists, 11 points, -6
After three consecutive 20-goal seasons, the fans were expecting big things from Fisher. Instead, he has had problems finding the back of the net and provide much-needed secondary scoring for Ottawa.
Antoine Vermette = 3 goals, 3 assists, 6 points, -10
After improving his point totals in each of his four NHL-seasons, Vermette was due for a breakout season. Instead, Vermette only has one goal and one assist in the last 20 games.

Toronto Maple Leafs:
Booms:
Matt Stajan = 9 goals, 20 assists, 29 points, -4
After being a healthy scratch earlier this season, Stajan has exploded offensively with linemates Nik Antropov and Alex Ponikarovksy who have a good season too so far.
Mihail Grabovksi = 11 goals, 9 assists, 20 points, -2
The rookie centre is having a great season with wingers Niklas Hagman and Nikolai Kulemin on the Leafs' second line. He's the Leafs centre of the future.

Busts:
Lee Stempniak = 1 goal, 4 assists, 5 points with the Maple Leafs
Acquired in trade for Carlo Colaiacovo and Alex Steen, Stempniak was supposed to provide plenty of offense to the Leafs after notching 13 points in 14 games with the Blues. Instead, Stempniak has yet to click with any other Leafs player.
Vesa Toskala and Curtis Joseph = They have combined for 13 wins in 32 games. They also boast a ludicrous 3.28 GAA to go with a shameful .880 save percentage. Joseph is clearly over-the-hill while Toskala is battling a groin injury. It's clearly time for hyped-prospect Justin Pogge to shine in Leafland.

JUSTIN POGGE MAKES HIS NHL DEBUT

2008-12-23T09:14:00.004-05:00

Granted, it was only the Atlanta Thrashers but Justin Pogge looked very solid in his official NHL debut last night making 19 saves on 21 shots. I am a big supporter of teams leaving strong prospects in the minors to continue growing and to play a regular schedule while they are being groomed for the NHL but I think this season would have been a great opportunity for the Leafs to get Pogge some NHL Experience.

With the Leafs in rebuilding mode, and Vesa Toskala going to get a fairly significant number of games off, Pogge could have gained a significant number of minutes and pressure free NHL experience as expectations for the Leafs are considerably lower than in recent years. For whatever reason, Cliff Fletcher and the Maple Leafs brass decided it would be a better move to bring in an ageing Curtis Joseph. Nostalgia purposes aside I really don’t see much of an advantage in bringing Joseph in. His numbers have not been good this season, nor have they been for some time, and I think it’s just delaying the development of Pogge.

Granted, it is a balancing act when it comes to grooming young goaltenders in the NHL but you really can’t have a much more conducive situation for goaltending development than the situation the Leafs are in this season. If Pogge were to have been playing and had a few bad games in a row it would be no big loss. Expectations for wins this season are low and the bad games would be chalked up to growing pains. If the Leafs plan on bring Pogge up in the next couple of years to backup Toskala and he plays poorly his stock in the NHL will drop from a budding prospect to a goalie that just can’t make the jump from the AHL to the NHL.

Last night Pogge showed that he has what it takes to play in this league and should be given the opportunity. As much as I like Toskala Pogge very well could be the future of the Leafs. Along with some of the other young players currently on the roster Pogge could help make up the essential core of this team for years to come and in my opinion the sooner they get the ball rolling on this NHL process the better.
While Joseph continues to falter give more minutes to Pogge, it’s that simple.

Guillaume Latendresse out of Guy Carbonneau's Dog House

2008-12-22T13:07:00.005-05:00

After Guillaume Latendresse was a healthy scratch for a few games in a row in early December, some Canadiens fans wondered if #84 still had a bright future in Montreal.

The pleasant forward, usually smiling, had a hard time understanding what was happening to him and what Carbonneau essentially wanted from him.

“I don't really know what he wants more from me, declared Tenderness. I did not understand completely our conversations, they did not answer my questions about the reasons of my benching.“

“Maybe he expects me to do more offensively. I have to keep trying making plays event if I lost most of my confidence.“

Latendresse was asked to shoot from the slot. To play physically and use his big frame. To protect the puck in the corners. To be good defensively, with and without the puck.

Maybe Latendresse lost his true nature along the way? Maybe Carbo and Tender don't go along too well?

After scoring 16 goals in each of his first two seasons with the Canadiens, Latendresse was off the a good start this season, playing with Alex Tanguay and Saku Koivu, notching six points in his first five games. However, when Chris Higgins came back from his groin injury, he took Latendresse's spot immediately. As a result, the 21 year-old forward was downgraded to the 3rd and 4th lines, he also did not see much power play action; thereby, reducing his offensive production.

“I don't want to make noise, Latendresse stressed. I need to keep my rage inside when I show up at the rink. If I want to be in a bad mood at home, it's my business.“

Carbo recognized that he wished to spark his young forward and get the best out of him when he would be reinserted in the lineup.

After Steve Begin and Maxim Lapierre were healthy scratched earlier this season, they raised they game significantly in the past few games. Carbonneau was simply trying to do the same with youngsters like Sergei Kostitsyn and Guillaume.

When Christopher Higgins went down with an long term injury on December 9, 2008 against the Flames, Latendresse knew he would have the chance to re-enter the Habs' line-up.

In the last six games, he has two goals and one assist, while seeing his ice-time increase. In the past two games, Guillaume has played on average 16:00 minutes on a line with grinders Tom Kostopoulos and Maxim Lapierre, which has been by far the Canadiens' best line this weekend. That, combined with an increase in his power play time, has helped Latendresse get plenty of scoring chances. Tender is finally driving the net and finishing his bodychecks; just what Carbonneau wants from him...

Patrice Bergeron out indefinitely with concussion

2008-12-22T09:22:00.004-05:00

Patrice Bergeron will likely miss an extended period of time after suffering a concussion during Saturday's game against Carolina. Bergeron was smacked on the head by Dennis Seidenberg's shoulder, when Bergeron tried to hit him in the meutral zone.

Bergeron was released from hospital on Sunday. His family has arrived in Boston to spend time with him over the next few days. Bergeron will be placed on the injured list anf fortunately, this concussion is less severe than last year's concussion when Randy Jones hit him from behind.

Other notes: The Bruins have added Aaron Ward (ankle) and Petteri Nokelainen (upper body) to injured reserve, giving the club 21 players on the active roster. Ward and Nokelainen are on standard IR, while Marco Sturm (knee) and Andrew Ference (leg) are on long-term IR. Marco Sturm's recent knee injury will keep him out of action for at least four weeks.

With Ward and Nokelainen hitting IR, the Bruins could call up reinforcements for Tuesday's game against New Jersey. Johnny Boychuk and Martins Karsums are candidates for recall.

Pogge's Time to Shine

2008-12-21T12:43:00.001-05:00

It appears Vesa Toskala has been complaining of a sore groin for some time, and during the Leafs' 7-3 win over the Pens last night, the soreness had reached a limit. TSN is reporting that Toskala will be out of the lineup when the Leafs face the Thrashers on Monday.

For goaltending prospect Justin Pogge, this is the best news of the season (but he won't tell you that).

Toskala's performances have been better of late. He's been slowly regaining form, but hasn't yet found the game that made him critically acclaimed in Toronto last season. Perhaps this groin injury had a part to play, especially considering the style of the Finnish goaltender, which revolves heavily around agility, speed and acrobatics.

In any case, this could be a win-win for the Leafs. If the injury really was holding Toskala back, then some time to rehabilitate could mean the emergence of the goaltender we all knew and praised last season.

More importantly, Pogge can finally play in his 1st career NHL game. And at 22, it's about time.

If Pogge can prove to Brian Burke that he belongs in a Maple Leafs jersey, the chances of him playing for the 2009-10 Leafs squad will be elevated. Not only that, but he can potentially stand as the Leafs' starting goaltender next season.

It's a feasible scenario considering the success he generated in his junior career. I won't go on driveling about it, just take a look:

* 2006 - World Junior Hockey Championship gold medal
* 2006 - World Junior Hockey Championship Team Canada MVP
* 2006 - Four Broncos Memorial Trophy - Player of the Year in the WHL
* 2006 - Del Wilson Trophy - Top goaltender in the WHL
* 2006 - CHL Goaltender of the Year

In the AHL, however, Pogge hasn't matched that kind of success. In 89 career games, he's accumulated a 45-34 record, a 2.70 GAA, a .901 SV% and 7 SO. Not bad, but nowhere near good enough to rank his as a top goaltending prospect.

In his defense, it could be argued that poor management has held him back. Considering this is Pogge's first season in the AHL as a starting goaltender, I would say it's a likely scenario. Look no further than last year's playoffs, when head coach Greg Gilbert opted to use journeyman Scott Clemmenson as the starting goaltender over Justin Pogge, who recorded better stats than his 30-year old AHL teammate.

And now, the Marlies are in the midst of a terrible season, struggling in all facets of the game. No offense to the Marlies management, but Pogge's departure, even temporarily, will help develop his game.

Which brings me to my point. If Pogge does play well enough to earn him a roster spot, don't expect it to come until next season. The Leafs are essentially handcuffed with Joseph, and don't expect them to send him to the pressbox. Joseph has earned his respect, and the Leafs will not embarrass the 40-year old by benching him.

Pogge will have to showcase his talent, and bide his time until next season. If he does make a strong case to become starting goaltender for the Leafs, expect Burke to trade Toskala in the off-season or at the NHL Trade Deadline (which would mean Pogge finishing the season).

Prediction: Pogge plays solid between the pipes and is appointed starting goaltender by the end of next year's training camp.

Kovy being Kovy

2008-12-21T10:02:00.001-05:00

From MontrealCanadiens.com:
MONTREAL – Anyone ready to write off Alex Kovalev’s season based on his un-Kovy-like start might want to ask Ryan Miller and the Sabres about that.

With expectations through the roof for Kovalev following his brilliant 84-point campaign of a year ago, there was no shortage of sprained ankles from everyone jumping off AK-27’s bandwagon. After scoring the overtime winner to down the Sabres, Kovalev appears to be heating up with 10 points in his last 10 games.

“I’m more confident shooting the puck right now. I’ve been working hard in practice at hitting the right spots and I’ve also been watching my own DVD,” said Kovalev with a smile, about his wildly popular instructional video launched last season.

Whatever the ultra-skilled winger is doing these days, it’s working. Despite his sluggish start to the campaign, Kovalev is nevertheless co-leading the Habs with 26 points along with Andrei Markov.

“I’ve been saying all along that it was going to happen and the puck would start to go in. I knew we just had to keep pushing and working hard,” said Kovalev. “I think what we’re all doing a much better job of right now is getting the puck on net and jumping on the rebounds. We’ve been talking about the fact that our goals won’t all be pretty.”

While Kovalev does have a point, his goals still fall into the highlight reel category more often than not. His OT winner was no different as his seeing-eye wrist shot somehow found a small hole past Miller.

“Since the season started, Kovy has been the one with the most scoring chances on team and he was the one creating the most chances for his teammates. The problem was his shots kept hitting the post or going off a leg,” explained head coach Guy Carbonneau. “We all had the feeling that once he scored one, he would relax and get rolling and that’s what he’s doing right now.”

Called for a pair of phantom penalties, including the one that gave the Sabres a 3-2 lead with under five minutes to go in regulation, Kovalev had time to plot his revenge.

“Those were a couple of frustrating penalties and you could tell he felt bad about them, but he kept working hard,” said Carbonneau. “He showed his teammates he was there for them and that he wanted to win this game for them tonight.”

Sabrec recall top prospect Butler from the AHL

2008-12-19T19:23:00.002-05:00

The Buffalo Sabres have recalled defenseman Chris Butler from the AHL. The 22 year-old will make his NHL debut tonight against the Kings.

Forward Matt Ellis has also been recalled to replace centre Paul Gaustad who is sidelined after receiving a puck in the face Monday at practise.

Senators shake lines up

2008-12-19T11:31:00.002-05:00

Craig Hartsburg has decided to split the PIZZA line for tonight's matchup with the Devils.

Expected lines:
Vermette-Fisher-Alfredsson
Heatley-Kelly-Foligno
Ruutu-Spezza-Neil
Schubert-Bass-Donovan

Volchenkov-Phillips
Kuba-Picard
Bell-Smith

Auld

Spezza with Ruutu and Neil??

Komisarek back in the lineup tonight

2008-12-18T11:27:00.003-05:00

Canadiens d-man Mike Komisarek will be back into the lineup tonight against the Flyers. He will play with Andrei Markov.

Ryan O'Byrne will be a healthy scratch and Ben Maxwell was reassigned to the Hamilton Bulldogs to make room for Big George Laraque who will also be back. He will play with Steve Begin and Sergei Kostitsyn.

David Krejci's unexpected rise to stardom

2008-12-17T19:57:00.008-05:00

The Bruins' first pick in the second round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft (63rd overall), David Krecji, 22, has climbed fast on the Bruins depth chart.

Currently the Bruins' third centre behind point-producer Marc Savard and proven youngster Patrice Bergeron, Krejci is quickly making his mark in the NHL. His new line-mates Blake Wheeler and Michael Ryder have perfectly clicked together. Through 30 games this season with the Bruins, Krejci has eight goals and 21 assists for 29 points, currently on pace for 79 points. He also ranks 10th in the league with a +15 plus/minus differential.

The Sternberk, Czech Republic native, has already surpassed last year's career-best, 27 points in 56 games, thanks to his plethora of skills. Krejci's strongest assets are his soft hands and smooth puck-handling abilities. He is good on face-offs and possesses good defensive instincts for a second-year player. Krejci also has a highly accurate wrist shot, and he can make smart, crisp passes to him teammates. He isn't afraid of playing in heavy traffic and drive the net.

After playing two years in the QMJHL with Gatineau where he recorded 144 points in only 117 games, he smoothly made the transition to the AHL with the Providence Bruins where he notched 74 points in 69 games in 2006-2007. Krejci adjusted very well everywhere he played, and there is no reason he can't continue with the Bruins this season...

Expect big things from Krejci in the next few years, as Bruins's coach Claude Julien is not afraid to use him in every situation. Krejci is currently on fire, having notched five goals and fifteen assists for 20 points in the past twelve games!

Will Jeremy Williams finally stick with the Leafs?

2008-12-17T15:24:00.005-05:00

Williams, who scored in each of his first three NHL games, over three NHL seasons, has never been able to stick with the Maple Leafs, until now...

Drafted 220th overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Maple Leafs, Williams, 24, has yet to play a full NHL season in Toronto. Over four seasons, he has only played 23 games, notching seven goals and one assist after yesterday's 3-2 OT win against the Devils. This year, Williams has three goals and one assist in only three games (he's already +4), after the Leafs recalled him on December 8th when Niklas Hagman went down with concussion-like symptoms.

Known for his offensive abilities, Williams is a great playmaker who has a knack for putting pucks in the net. Williams has also really improved his acceleration and top-end speed in recent years, which has helped him even more offensively. He also seems stronger on his skates this season, especially with the puck.

The Regina native has seen about 15 minutes of ice-time per game this season, an increase over his previous call-ups, which is a good indication that he will likely stick for the whole 2008-2009 season, especially when newly-appointed Leafs' GM Brian Burke starts getting rid of some veterans with hefty contracts (Kaberle, Kubina, Blake for instance).

It's a make or break season for Williams, who at 24, might not figure in the Leafs' plan anymore if he can't step up and produce consistently in the NHL.

Nathan Gerbe out 10-14 days

2008-12-17T14:59:00.001-05:00

Nathan Gerbe, the Buffalo Sabres' rookie left winger, suffered a setback from getting checked Saturday and could miss up to seven games.

"He's got an upper-body injury and he's going to miss somewhere from 10 days to two weeks, stemming from the hit the other night," coach Lindy Ruff said today after Gerbe skipped the Sabres' workout. "He was examined again this morning before practice, and we're just a little concerned with how he reacted after yesterday's skate. The doctors found something and decided to keep him out."

Source: Buffalo News.

Time to part ways with Hartsburg

2008-12-17T12:58:00.005-05:00

When Bryan Murray hired Craig Hartsburg this summer as the Senators' new head coach, he was pretty confident Hartsburg would turn the Senators around after a horrendous finish last season.

29 games into the 2008-09 season, the Senators are sitting at the bottom on the Eastern Conference, only five points in front of bottom-dweller Tampa Bay Lightning after losing 4-1 to the 13th place Atlanta Thrashers on home ice.

GM Bryan Murray signed Hartsburg to a three-year contract last June to replace John Paddock who had been fired in February. After a torrid start under Paddock, the Senators stumbled, leading to his firing at the end of February. Murray, who is not known as being a patient general manager, finished the season behind the bench.

This season, the Senators have had troubles scoring goals, averaging only 2.3 goals/game after finishing 2nd overall offensively last season. Secondary scoring has been a problem all season, as Mike Fisher (3 g, 6 a, 9 points), Antoine Vermette (2 g, 3 a, 5 points) and Nick Foligno (4 g, 4 a, 8 points) haven't been able to get going as they are in a season-long slump. The top pairing of Anton Volchenkov (-10) and Chris Phillips (-12) have been the Sens worst defensive pairing this season despite being a defensive force during the past few years.

Bryan Murray, because of the salary cap, hasn't been able to add a puck-moving defenseman nor a veteran forward to help boost his anemic offense.

And since Bryan Murray will not fire himself because of his inability to make a trade, Craig Hartsburg is the likely scapegoat if the players don't turn things around. They don't seem enticed to play for Hartsburg as their past showings have been dreadful being 1-3-1 in their last five games during which they only managed seven goals while allowing 15 goals.

The recent call-ups of Brian Lee and Ilya Zubov haven't done anything to save this sinking ship.
The Pizza line is not producing anymore. Heatley is pointless in his last four games (-4), Spezza is also pointless in his last four games (-3), while captain Alfredsson only has one goal, an empty netter, during that span.

The Senators still have three games to play before the Christmas hiatus, visiting the Devils and the Flyers, two hot teams, and receiving the Stars, a team on the rise lately.

Should his team cannot manage to earn four points out of six, look for Bryan Murray to pull the trigger and let Craig Hartsburg go after Christmas.

Welcome Back, Toskala + The Future of Justin Pogge

2008-12-16T22:02:00.001-05:00

Vesa Toskala has reclaimed his role as the Leafs' top player.

Similar to last season, Toskala got off to a slow start, struggling to provide his team with solid goaltending. Looking at how the defense has performed this season, consistent goaltending is a necessity.

But have no fear, Toskala is here... finally.

The re-emergence of the Finnish goaltender is not only good news for his teammates, but to Brian Burke and the expanding brass of ''Tank Nation''.

While the goaltending of Toskala will ensure more W's, it will also raise his value. After all, the NHL Trade Deadline is on the horizon, and even without Mats Sundin it's going to be an interesting time for the Buds. Will Burke opt to trade long-time Maple Leaf Tomas Kaberle? How about defenseman Pavel Kubina? Is Nikolai Antropov's time as a Leaf coming to an end? But, pertaining to the context of the blog, the real question is whether or not Toskala will be serving as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs come March 4th.

If Toskala is traded, it would be unwise of the Leafs to appoint Curtis Joseph as the starting goaltender. A much more viable option would be to call-up goaltending prospect Justin Pogge.

While many have argued that such a move could rattle the confidence of the 22-year old, playing for the Leafs for a couple months would be beneficial to his development in contrast to serving on the Toronto Marlies, who are currently ranked 11th place in the AHL's Western Conference.

Playing for the Marlies will progress his development no further. The time is now (well, March 4th) for the Leafs to deploy another one of their top prospects to the big league.

Unlike previous seasons, the Leafs are now in the midst of rebuilding. Inserting Pogge in the later stages of the rebuilding phase seems counter-productive to their future. At the very least, he must be a member of the team by next season. If not, his confidence could be affected, and as proven by Toskala earlier this year, confidence is a crucial aspect between the pipes.

This all hinges on the play of Toskala, however, so I speak for all of Leaf Nation (and Tank Nation) when I say:

Keep it up, Vesa!

Yannick Weber: A Diamond In The Rough Or a One-Dimensional Player?

2008-12-16T15:55:00.002-05:00

A pleasant surprise during the recent Montreal Canadiens' training camp, Weber, 20, was quite disappointed when he learned that he had not made the team. After a fairly rough start in the AHL with the Hamilton Bulldogs (two points in the first eight games), the Zurich, Switzerland, native, has slowly turned things around. He now has five goals and seven assists in 25 games with the Bulldogs.

Primarily known for his ability to quarterback the power play, Weber's strengths are his booming slap shot from the blue line, his sound transition game and his great one-ice vision. However, the 5'10'', 195 lbs, blue-liner lacks a physical edge and is prone to turnovers as he likes to carry the puck through the neutral zone.

A third-round pick of the Canadiens in the 2004 NHL entry draft, Weber, a right-handed shooter, was told in training camp that he needed to hone his defensive skills and improve his zone coverage before permanently graduating with the Habs. When Don Lever, the Bulldogs' head coach, believes Weber has matured enough defensively, he might recommend him to Bob Gainey when the Canadiens need help on defense. Lever is slowly giving him more ice-time and easing him up on the power play. Weber is currently manning the second PP unit.

Should Ryan O'Byrne continue to experience problems defensively and play as inconsistently as he has been recently, the Canadiens will be enticed to recall Weber to see what he can do with the pros. Moreover, Weber's presence could not hurt their dreadful power play which is currently ranked 29th in the NHL.

I would not be surprised if he gets a phone call from Gainey during the Christmas Holidays...

Habs need to find a power play specialist, and soon!

2008-12-16T10:38:00.003-05:00

I guess a lot of fans in Montreal now miss Mark Streit after his departure via free agency to Long Island.

Montreal had last year’s number one power play in the NHL, but they are now sitting 29th with a poor 12.9% success rate, while the Islanders power play has improved steadily from 29th to 17th overall at a 18.0% rate. Streit has 21 points, 15 on the power play, in 30 games (he would be the Habs' fourth scorer).

Many thought Streit would struggle as a full-time defenseman, but he’s minus-8 on a very ordinary Islanders team that is sitting last in the Eastern Conference. Streit has logged the thirteenth most ice time in the NHL with an average of 25:07 each game, including around six minutes on the power play.

Meanwhile, Ryan O'Byrne and Patrice Brisebois, who usually play with Roman Hamrlik, Streit's former partner on defense, have a combined three goals and five assists in 46 games this season... Mathieu Dandenault also played with Hammer before being injured with a broken arm. Dandy, while playing well defensively, only had two assists in twenty games prior to the injury.

Streit was the shooter on a very effective 1st unit last season along with Markov, Kovalev, Plekanec and A. Kostitsyn. This season, newly-acquired Alex Tanguay and Robert Lang have also manned the point with Andrei Markov.

The latter was asked to shoot the puck at the net without great success, Markov being more of a passer than a shooter, as shown by his five goals and 19 assists in 29 games this season. As a result, the Habs have became very predictable on the power play, and the defensive team is putting much more pressure on Koivu (one goal on the PP) and Kovalev (also one goal on the PP). The team leader is Alex Tanguay with only four PP goals and he has not scored on the PP since November 7th.

The league leader is Selanne with thirteen power play goals.

Guy Carbonneau has yet to adjust his strategy and the problem is more and more obvious recently as the Canadiens have lost three of their last four games, scoring only one goal in each of these losses.

Will Carbonneau change his strategy or will Bob Gainey pull the trigger before the Holiday trade freeze and acquire a power play specialist with a hard shot (Philippe Boucher was available a month ago)? He even put Begin, Lapierre and Kostopoulos out there during the last game against the Capitals to send a message to his star players. Now with the injury to Koivu, the coach will have to find a new combination in order to spark this slumping power play unit...

Rivet sidelined at least two weeks

2008-12-15T14:10:00.002-05:00

From the Buffalo News:

Buffalo Sabres defenseman Craig Rivet revealed today that he's dealing with an injured shoulder and the team's captain is going to be out least two weeks while he tries to rehab the shoulder.

Rivet was originally injured Nov. 29 in Montreal and sat out the next two games. He returned to play in the next three games but said he tweaked the injury in each one. Rivet sat out Friday's loss to Toronto in HSBC Arena and Saturday's win at New Jersey.

Coach Lindy Ruff said Rivet would be sideline for "two-week blocks."

Phil Kessel named 1st star of the week

2008-12-15T13:29:00.004-05:00

From NHL.com:
Kessel tallied eight points (three goals, five assists) and extended his point streak to 15 games as the Bruins went 3-1-0, improving their Eastern Conference-leading record to 21-5-4. Kessel recorded one goal and one assist in a 5-3 victory over Tampa Bay Dec. 8, notched an assist in a 3-1 loss at Washington Dec. 10, tallied a goal and two assists in a 7-3 win at Atlanta Dec. 12 and closed the week with a goal and an assist in a 4-2 win over the Thrashers Dec. 13. Kessel's point streak is a career high, the longest in the NHL this season and longest by a Bruins player since Adam Oates recorded points in 20 consecutive games from Jan. 7 to Feb. 20, 1997. The 21-year-old Madison, Wisconsin native is second in Bruins scoring with 31 points (19 goals, 12 assists) in 30 games, ranks third in the NHL in goals and already has matched his career high of 19 goals set last season.

Sean Leahy at Puck Daddy wrote a great article on Kessel who was just named the NHL's "first star" of last week. Click here for the full article.

Canada's WJC 2009 Team

2008-12-15T12:48:00.007-05:00

Thanks to Dan Tolenksy on Hockeybuzz here are the players for Team Canada for the World Juniours

Northeast division prospects:

Buffalo:
Tyler Myers 6'7" 213 Calgary, AB Kelowna (WHL)
Tyler Ennis 5'8" 165 Edmonton, AB Med. Hat (WHL)

Montreal:
PK Subban 5'11" 206 Toronto, ON Belleville (OHL)

Toronto:
Chris DiDomenico 5'11" 170 Woodbridge, ON S.J. (QMJHL)

Is the Price really right?

2008-12-15T11:56:00.010-05:00

Coming out a phenomenal 2006-2007 hockey season, during which the Anahim Lake, B.C., native won the gold at the IIHF World Junior (U20) Ice Hockey Championship in Sweden (he was named the Tournament MVP) and the Calder Cup with the Hamilton Bulldogs (he was named playoffs MVP), expectations were very high at the beginning of last season in Montreal.

The 6-3, 212 lbs, butterfly goaltender made the team out of training camp. He shared duties with French goaltender Cristobal Huet for the first few months, before being sent down to the AHL in January 2008 to regain his form after a lackluster start. After a one-month stint with the Bulldogs, the Canadiens called him up and gave him plenty of action before trading Huet to the Capitals at the trade deadline. Price responded very well, leading the Canadiens to a strong finish atop the Eastern Conference. Price finished the 2007-2008 season with a 24-12-3 record, a 2.56 GAA and a sparkling .920 save percentage.

The red-hot Canadiens were to face the 8th seed Boston Bruins which they beat 8 times out of 8 during the regular season. After taking a comfortable 3-1 series lead, during which Price allowed only 5 goals, things changed drastically. The Bruins were able to tie the series 3-3 before seeing the Habs blank them in a decisive 7th game 5-0.

Price showed signs of tiredness and inconsistency throughout the whole series. He now had to face a surprising physical Flyers team that had just eliminated the red-hot Washington Capitals in a long 7-game series.

Price would have to be very sharp to help the Canadiens prevail and reach the Conference finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins. That would not happen. Price was shaky in each of the Canadiens loss, surrendering at least one soft goal each game, leading to a short 5-game series during which the Habs were out-muscled, outworked and outwitted. The Price was not so right after all, as Carey finished the playoffs with a5-6 record, 2.78 GAA and a very ordinary .901 save percentage.

Now tagged as the Canadiens no 1 goalie of the future, Price had the whole summer to get some rest and get his mental focus back. He even managed to lose the 28 lbs that he had gained during the 2007-2008 season. Lighter, sharper and faster, Price is off to a strong start this season with the Canadiens. After 20 games, he has a 12-4-4, a 2.37 GAA and a great .920 save percentage. He has kept the Canadiens in most of the games with key saves while being more consistent.

Currently day-to-day with a bad cold and a lower body injury, Price will have some time to rest until Christmas. This forced hiatus will keep him fresh through the end of the season and the playoffs.

Meanwhile, Price's inactivity will allow backup Jaroslav Halak to see more action. Seldom used during the first two months, Halak has now started three consecutive games in Price's absence. The 23-year-old Czech goaltender is boasting a 3-4-1 record, to go with a 2.37 GAA and a solid .918 save percentage. The Canadiens' lack of offensive support to Halak has led to a few 2-1 losses. In Halak's nine starts, he has only allowed more than three goals once...

When Price returns, Halak will likely want to see plenty of action as well and battle for the Habs' no 1 goalie spot. However, since Price is the Canadiens' goaltender of the future, Halak's chances of being a true no 1 is more likely with another team. Don't be surprised if Gainey trades Halak at the trade deadline to get a top-6 forward or a steady veteran defenseman to help his team contend for the Stanley Cup for the Habs Centennial. My bet is that the Price will be right at the end of the season.

Big Division Victory for the Leafs

2008-12-15T10:45:00.001-05:00

Friday night's game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Buffalo Sabres didn't play out how I'd imagined it to. This low scoring affair featured only three combined goals, each scored by players with a combined 8 goals in 50 games this season. Toni Lydman, Jeremy Williams and Ian White scored for each of their respective teams on Friday.

I'm not sure if I believe the game was as low scoring as it was because of the great goaltending, although both Ryan Miller and Vesa Toskala played well, or if it was the ineptitude of the forwards. Drew Stafford’s shocking missed opportunity, he had a wide opened net and somehow managed to miss the net completely, was the one blunder that stood out the most for me. Maxim Afinogonov's lack of finish, which he has exhibited almost all season (with the exception of the lone goal he has scored), made another appearance when Toskala made a pad save on an opportunity that should have resulted in a goal nine times out of ten.

Buffalo's lack of finish shouldn't imply that the Leafs gave up opportunity after opportunity because they didn't. They Leafs played a decent game, scored when they had to and Toskala made the saves he needed to for the Leafs to beat their division foes, the Sabres.

What may have been the most impressive part of the Leafs game was their ability to keep the high scoring Thomas Vanek off the score sheet. Vanek currently leads the league with 24 goals on the season.

With a game with little to report on and the Leafs being off until Tuesday night we'll leave it at that for this time around. The Leafs host the New Jersey Devils, who had been on a hot streak until their recent loss (Saturday to the same Buffalo Sabres), at the Air Canada Centre. This should be another interesting match-up.

If you're interested, visit my other blog (Red Wings Blog) at http://marcsredwingsblog.blogspot.com/

Tale of Two Sophomore D

2008-12-15T10:31:00.006-05:00

I am talking about two young sophmore defensemen in different teams in the northeast which have to played as well as they did in their rookie year. These Defenseman come from two Canadian teams. One was sent down and the other is still up with his team. Well the two players I am talking about are O'byrne and Stralman. Both defenseman had great rookie years, one as a offensive defenseman (Stralman) who showed his talents in May not in the playoffs but at the World Championships. O'Byrne defenseman looked like the next Komisarek, a physical presence who just needs to teaching from Hamrlik how to be a D-man in the league. Both of them have not looked up to par in there sophmore year which plagued many NHL players. Toronto decided to send Stralman down for maybe some conditioning or for awhile not sure yet and they decided to keep up a rookie in his place in Sifers who had two good games.

Here is last year stats of Stralman last year and his projected of this year if he stayed up

07-08: 50GP 3G 6A 9Pts -10 18PIM 40Shots

08-09: 21GP 1G 6A 7Pts +1 6PIM 1GWG 29 Shots

pace 08-09: 74GP 3G 21A 24Pts +3 21 PIMS 3GWG 102shots

On paper he looks like is playing better than he did last year. He been playing poorly as of late and now with the returns of Van Ryn and soon Frogren Toronto has too many D-men especially with how Sifers is playing. Some time in the "A" for Stralman can be good for him. Toronto is disappointing with his Powerplay playing being that he showed his potential during the World Championship and so far he has no Powerplay goals to his name.

Faceoff.com has these has his assets, flaws and potential

ASSETS: Has plenty of puck poise and on-ice maturity. Owns a projectable frame and offensive upside. Is good on the power play point due to a hard shot.

FLAWS: Needs to add more bulk in order to better defend against big forwards in North America. Must adjust quickly to the faster pace of the NHL, and avoid big hits.

CAREER POTENTIAL: Top four defenseman

I think the main reason why he was sent down was because he was not showing the puck poise and on-ice maturity in which he showed last year, he sometimes made some bad plays in his own zone. He will be back sometime this year and hopefully can play better and get some goals on the PP.

While the other defenseman O'Byrne has been for sure looking not as good as he did last year. He is a defensive D-man and you for sure notice him on the ice which is not good news. He been letting too many players to blow right by him. He would just need to get back to playing simple hockey and the basics. Last year he was +7 with 1G and 6A while this year he is already -5 and a projected -18.

From faceoff.com his assets. flaws and career potential

ASSETS: Has the size and physical toughness teams lust after at the NHL level. Is the consummate team player and a sound stay-at-home presence.

FLAWS: Is extremely limited in the offensive zone and will never be confused with a power play quarterback. Has to improve his mobility and coordination.

CAREER POTENTIAL: Top six defenseman.

He for sure does not have stay-at-home presence which has been most of the time lacking and he needs to get back. He for sure does need to improve his mobility and coordination! I think he should be sent down to the "A" and they should bring up Yannick Weber and try him on the powerplay.

Around the Bruins

2008-12-15T09:18:00.002-05:00

Bruins injuries:

Left winger Marco Sturm (concussion, neck injury) practiced yesterday and hopes to play against the Maple Leafs on Thursday.

Defenseman Aaron Ward (ankle) remains day-to-day after reaggravating his injury on Friday night. Forward Petteri Nokelainen (upper body) could be out for more than a week. He also left Friday night's game with the injury.

Cody Bass sent back to the AHL

2008-12-15T09:15:00.002-05:00

From Sun Media:

The Ottawa Senators announced today that they have returned centre Cody Bass to Binghamton.

Bass, 21, who was first called up on Nov. 19 and then on Dec. 1, had a total of nine games and 10 penalty minutes with the Sens. He did not play Saturday, when the Sens beat the Tampa Bay Lightning, 2-0.

In 17 games with the Binghamton Sens, Bass has one goal, one assist and 39 penalty minutes.

Leafs send Stralman down, keep Sifers up

2008-12-14T20:39:00.000-05:00

From NHL.com:
Brian Burke, president and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced Sunday afternoon that defenceman Anton Stralman has been assigned to the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League. Stralman is expected to be in the lineup when the Marlies host the Hamilton Bulldogs today at 4 p.m. at Ricoh Coliseum.

Playing in his second professional season in the Toronto organization, Stralman has played in 21 games for the Maple Leafs and recorded one goal and six assists to go along with six minutes in penalties. He posted a plus 1 rating and he was averaging 15:51 of ice time. His lone goal of the season was the game-winning marker as the Leafs defeated Boston 4-2 on the road on October 23rd.

Around the Senators

2008-12-13T14:59:00.001-05:00

Anton Volchenkov will not play against Tampa Bay tonight. The defenceman was injured when blocking a shot in last night's loss to the Capitals, taking the puck in the abdomen.

The club has called up forward Ilya Zubov and defenceman Brian Lee for tonight's contest against the Lighting. This is Lee's second recall in less than a month, recording two assists and two penalty minutes in those games. Zubov, also in his second recall in a month, did not record any points in his four games with Ottawa.

Martin Gerber will get the start in goal for tonight's game.

Source: TSN

Chris Higgins to miss 4-6 weeks with shoulder injury

2008-12-12T16:55:00.003-05:00

The Montreal Canadiens announced today that forward Christopher Higgins will be sidelined four to six weeks as a result of a shoulder injury sustained on Tuesday against the Calgary Flames.
In 21 games, Higgins has five goals and four assists.

Meanwhile, Carey Price is day-to-day with the flu. As a precautionary measure, GM Bob Gainey recalled Marc Denis from Hamilton. Expect Jaroslav Halak to get the nod in goal against the Capitals.

Expected lines Leafs vs Sabres tonight!

2008-12-12T15:47:00.002-05:00

Sabres
Forwards:
Nathan Gerbe - Derek Roy - Drew Stafford
Thomas Vanek - Jochen Hecht - Jason Pominville
Maxim Afinogenov - Adam Mair - Ales Kotalik
Daniel Paille - Paul Gaustad - Clarke MacArthur

Defensemen:
Jaroslav Spacek - Andrej Sekera
Tony Lydman - Craig Rivet
Henrik Tallinder - Teppo Numminen

Starting goalie:
Ryan Miller

Injured players: Tim Connolly, Patrick Kaleta
Healthy scratches: Andrew Peters, Nathan Paetsch

Maple Leafs
Forwards:
Alexei Ponikarovsky - Matt Stajan - Nik Antropov
Lee Stempniak - Mikhail Grabovski - Nik Kulemin
Jeremy Williams - Dominic Moore - Jason Blake
Ryan Hollweg - John Mitchell - Ian White

Defence:
Jeff Finger - Pavel Kubina
Tomas Kaberle - Mike Van Ryn
Anton Stralman - Jaime Sifers

Starting goalie:
Vesa Toskala

Injured players: Jonas Frogren, Jamal Mayers, Luke Shenn
Healthy scratch: Andre Deveaux

Mike Van Ryn is cleared to play and will be back in the line-up after missing one month of action

Top 50 rookies

2008-12-12T15:34:00.005-05:00

Scott Cullen at TSN.ca looks at the top 50 rookies of the 2008-2009 season.

5. Blake Wheeler, RW, Boston
7. Mikhail Grabovski, C, Toronto
8. Matt Hunwick, D, Boston
15. Nikolai Kulemin, RW, Toronto
22. Luke Schenn, D, Toronto
37. Jesse Winchester, RW, Ottawa
46. John Mitchell, RW, Toronto

Senators expected lines tonight vs the Capitals

2008-12-12T15:28:00.003-05:00

Forwards:
Dany Heatley - Jason Spezza - Daniel Alfredsson
Antoine Vermette - Mike Fisher - Shean Donovan
Nick Foligno - Chris Kelly - Jesse Winchester
Jarko Ruutu - Cody Bass - Chris Neil

Defence:
Chris Phillips - Anton Volchenkov
Alex Picard - Filip Kuba
Jason Smith - Chris Schubert

Goaltender:
Alex Auld

Injured player: Dean McAmmond
Healthy scratch: Brendan Bell

Bruins expected lines tonight vs Atlanta

2008-12-12T15:09:00.003-05:00

Forwards:
Milan Lucic - Marc Savard - Phil Kessel
P.J. Axelsson - Patrice Bergeron - Chuck Kobasew
Blake Wheeler - David Krejci - Michael Ryder
Shawn Thornton - Stephane Yelle - Petteri Nokelainen

Defensemen:
Zdeno Chara - Aaron Ward
Matt Hunwick - Dennis Wideman
Mark Stuart - Shane Hnidy

Starting Goalie:
Tim Thomas

Injured players: Andrew Ference, Marco Sturm

Healthy scratches: Vladimir Sobotka and Matt Lashoff.

Aaron Ward will take part of the pre-game warm-up, should he be unable to go, Matt Lashoff will take his place.

10 reasons for Sundin to Sign with Montreal

2008-12-12T14:27:00.001-05:00

Szymon Szemberg, communications director with the International Ice Hockey Federation in Zurich, offers 10 reasons why Mats Sundin should sign with the Canadiens, posted at IIHF.com.

From Habs Inside/Out

Dandenault to miss 6-8 weeks with broken arm; Ben Maxwell recalled

2008-12-12T13:43:00.006-05:00

Canadiens forward-defenseman Mathieu Dandenault will miss 6-8 weeks of play after breaking his left forearm during Tuesday's tilt against the Calgary Flames the team announced today.

In 20 games this season with le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge, Dandenault has 2 assists. He was playing very well since he was moved to defense after playing most of the season as a right winger.
Ryan O'Byrne took his spot in the lineup yesterday.

In another move, the Canadiens have recalled center Ben Maxwell from Hamilton of the AHL. In 26 games with the Bulldogs, Maxwell, 20, has eight goals and twelve assists for 20 points. Maxwell will likely take Koivu's spot between Andrei Kostitsyn and Matt D'Agostini tomorrow night when the Canadiens host the Capitals. Koivu is day-to-day with a lower body injury.

What's wrong with Antoine Vermette?

2008-12-12T10:19:00.008-05:00

Coming out of a 24-goal and 53-point season, Antoine Vermette had improved his scoring numbers in each of his four NHL seasons. With the departure of Cory Stillman via free agency, Vermette was supposed to get plenty of power play time this season, even on the Senators' top unit.

However, after 26 games this season, Vermette, 26, only has 2 goals and 5 points, to go with a-8 differential. He has only one assist in the Senators' last 15 games. He can no longer play on a third line with Chris Kelly and face the opponents' 5th and 6th defensemen now that the Senators are thin upfront without Cory Stillman and Mike Comrie.

Even though he's having a tough year, the St-Agapit, Quebec, native ranks third in the league in face-off winning percentage at 61.8%. Vermette worked very hard to improve this aspect and it is finally paying off. The problem is he ranks fourth in the team face-off taken behind Kelly Fisher and Spezza. Maybe if Hartsburg was letting Vermette take more face-offs, his line would get the puck more often and therefore, control the puck longer and create more scoring chances.

The Senators re-signed Vermette on July 31, 2008, to a two-year $2.525 million contract, hoping he would put the same numbers as last year. However, Vermette is having problems putting the puck into the net. Despite poor offensive numbers, he is having plenty of scoring chances and he is shooting at the net more often than not; he is on pace for more than 200 shots this season.

Vermette currently plays on a line with Mike Fisher and Sean Donovan, not exactly great offensive players. Fisher is also having a rough year and Donovan is more of a grinder than a finisher.

Hartsburg must really try other line combinations as the current lines are not working anymore. Give quality linemates to Vermette and it's a matter of time before he starts producing as he's having excellent offensive instincts, on-ice vision and soft hands.

Maybe the best thing that could happen to Antoine Vermette would be a change of scenery, whether Bryan Murray trades him to another team, or replaces Hartsburg with a more suitable coach for Vermette...

Koivu injured in the Habs' 3-1 loss to the hapless Lightning

2008-12-12T09:33:00.006-05:00

Canadiens' captain, Saku Koivu, left yesterday's contest in the second period after suffering a leg injury. He tried to return later in the game, but it was unsuccessful.

There will be further examination today and we should know more on the nature of the injury. Sergei Kostitsyn and Alex Tanguay took shifts at centre in place of Koivu.

The Canadiens will host the Washington Capitals on Saturday, their seventh game in a row at home.

Northeast's Best faceoffs men

2008-12-11T14:40:00.006-05:00

Invidiual rankings
Rank Name Team FO %
1 Rod Brind'Amour CAR 63.1

4 Antoine Vermette OTT 61.8
6 Patrice Bergeron BOS 58.0
14 Saku Koivu MTL 54.7
18 Dominic Moore TOR 53.7
28 Matt Stajan TOR 52.6
45 Marc Savard BOS 50.8
48 Tomas Plekanec MTL 50.3
49 Jason Spezza OTT 50.0

81 Mikhail Grabovski TOR 43.3

Team rankings
5 BOSTON 52.2
10 MONTREAL 50.8
13 OTTAWA 50.6
17 TORONTO 49.7
29 BUFFALO 46.4

Latendresse and O'Byrne back into the lineup

2008-12-11T11:46:00.006-05:00

After watching a few games from the press box forward Guillaume Latendresse and defenseman Ryan O'Byrne will be back in the Canadiens' lineup tonight against the Lightning.

Latendresse will take Chris Higgins' place in the lineup and O'Byrne will take Mathieu Dandenault's spot. Both players were injured in Tuesday's 4-1 victory against Calgary.

Montreal's expected lines for tonight:

Forwards:
Alex Tanguay - Robert Lang - Alexei Kovalev
Andrei Kostitsyn - Saku Koivu - Matt D'Agostini
Guillaume Latendresse - Tomas Plekanec - Sergei Kostitsyn
Steve Begin - Maxim Lapierre - Tom Kostopoulos

Defence:
Andrei Markov - Josh Gorges
Roman Hamrlik - Ryan O'Byrne
Francis Bouillon - Patrice Brisebois

Goaltender:
Jaroslav Halak

Injured players: Mike Komisarek, Chris Higgins, Mathieu Dandenault
Healthy scratches: George Laraque

Carey Price will not start tonight as he's been bothered by the flu lately. Halak will get the nod tonight. Olaf Kolzig will start for the Lightning.

Update (TSN): Forward Chris Higgins' MRI results have not been examined by team doctors so there is no firm estimate for the length of his absence. Head coach Guy Carboneau says Higgins will miss the next 2 games, but probably a full week at the very least.

Boston Bruins Injury Update

2008-12-11T10:49:00.000-05:00

Aaron Ward missed his fourth game with an apparent left ankle injury, but continues to skate. There's a chance the defenceman could return tomorrow night in Atlanta. Marco Sturm's struggles with "concussion-like symptoms" continue, as he missed his 10th game. Julien has put an optimistic spin on the winger's status for weeks and did so again. Centre Stephane Yelle was questionable for last night's game but did play. Vladimir Sobotka, who was brought up from Providence in case Yelle couldn't go, sat out. - Boston Herald

While Kessel is on a 13 game games while Krejci nine game streak ended.

Van Ryn and Frogren ready to play

2008-12-11T10:45:00.003-05:00

Leafs' defencemen Mike Van Ryn and Jonas Frogren both practised yesterday and both have been telling everyone they are ready to play, but that doesn't mean they will automatically be in the Toronto lineup at Buffalo tomorrow night.

There's a good chance call-up Jaime Sifers will get another game after a steady performance in his NHL debut Monday. Frogren's injury was supposed to keep him out of the game for about four weeks and it's been only two weeks, so the Leafs will make him undergo another MRI before he is officially cleared to play. His injury is easy to quantify compared to Van Ryn's injuries.

For Van Ryn, it's a little more complicated. He suffered facial injuries, a broken hand and a concussion when Montreal's Tom Kostopoulos slammed him into the glass from behind five weeks ago. Kostopoulos was suspended 3 games for this incident.

The stitches have come out and his cast is off, but the injury that can't be X-rayed, the concussion, must still be checked. Before playing, he has to undergo a test to see if his brain function compares favourably to the baseline test he did at the start of training camp.

Van Ryn was playing very well before he got injured and his return would prove to be a big boost for the Maple Leafs' depleted defense.

More to come tomorrow.

Some excerpts are from Paul Hunter's article.

Senators expected lines tonight vs the Hawks

2008-12-10T18:00:00.002-05:00

Forwards:
Dany Heatley - Jason Spezza - Daniel Alfredsson
Antoine Vermette - Mike Fisher - Shean Donovan
Nick Foligno - Chris Kelly - Jesse Winchester
Jarko Ruutu - Cody Bass - Chris Neil

Defence:
Chris Phillips - Anton Volchenkov
Alex Picard - Filip Kuba
Jason Smith - Brendan Bell

Goaltender:
Martin Gerber

Injured player: Dean McAmmond
Healthy scratch: Chris Schubert

Sabres expected lines tonight vs Tampa Bay

2008-12-10T17:55:00.003-05:00

Forwards:
Thomas Vanek - Derek Roy - Drew Stafford
Paul Gaustad - Jochen Hecht - Jason Pominville
Clarke MacCarthur - Adam Mair - Ales Kotalik
Daniel Paille - Nathan Gerbe - Maxim Afinogenov

Defensemen:
Jaroslav Spacek - Craig Rivet
Tony Lydman - Andrej Sekera
Henrik Tallinder - Teppo Numminen

Goalies:
Ryan Miller

Injured players: Tim Connolly, Patrick Kaleta
Healthy scratches: Andrew Peters, Nathan Paetsch

Bruins expected lines tonight vs the Capitals

2008-12-10T17:48:00.004-05:00

Forwards:
Milan Lucic - Marc Savard - Phil Kessel
P.J. Axelsson - Patrice Bergeron - Chuck Kobasew
Blake Wheeler - David Krejci - Michael Ryder
Shawn Thornton - Stephane Yelle - Petteri Nokelainen

Defensemen:
Zdeno Chara - Matt Lashoff
Matt Hunwick - Dennis Wideman
Mark Stuart - Shane Hnidy

Goalies:
Manny Fernandez

Injured players: Aaron Ward, Andrew Ference, Marco Sturm

Vladimir Sobotka will be a healthy scratch should Stephane Yelle be ready to go.

Brent Johnson will get the start for the Capitals and Alexander Semin apparently took part in a closed morning skate and was upgraded to a game-time decision.

Matt Stajan?! Are You Kidding Me?!

2008-12-10T16:58:00.002-05:00

What's not surprising about the Toronto Maple Leafs season through the first 28 games is their record. Sitting 11th in the Eastern Conference with 26 points through 28 games shouldn't be all that shocking; even for those fans who believed the Leafs would be so horrible they'd be in the running for the 1st overall draft pick in 2009. What is surprising, however, is that Matt Stajan is leading the Leafs with 23 points (7g, 16a). Granted, with power play time and two big, strong wingers by his side, there are a lot of players in the NHL who could produce at slightly under a point per game. What really baffles me is how Stajan can be so weak on the puck, have no real physical presence on the ice, and yet Ron Wilson continues to use him in key situations.
Credit should be given where credit is due. Matt Stajan is in fact leading the Leafs in points. Now, do I believe that this trend will continue throughout the season? Absolutely not. But, at the moment, he should receive at least some praise.

Which brings me to the entire point of this blog. For a long time I have been hoping the Leafs would deal away Stajan (not to mention a few other members of the current roster) and with Brian Burke's impending roster upheaval, now could be as good a time as any. Stajan is by no means a number 1 centre in the NHL but when you produce just under a point per game there are those teams who are so disillusioned to believe that Stajan would be a huge asset for them. I really think that Stajan's stake league wide has no where to go but down from this point. To me it's time that the Leafs capitalized on the hype that surrounds one of their younger players.

Alexander Steen is the perfect example of what not to do. This kid had such potential and came up in a number of trade rumours but the Leafs were reluctant to move him. His stock eventually plumeted and they had to package him with Carlo Colaiacovo in order to get Lee Stempniak. I by no means am ripping Stempniak, but I think they could have fetched more for Steen had they traded him at the peak of the league's interest. I feel as though, at the moment, we have reached the plateau of interest in Stajan (or at least are on the cusp of reaching it).

Right now he has the points to support such a claim; he's also playing in all the right situations, has a good face/off percentage and is a solid leader. Not that I think the Leafs can expect a monster return from a Matt Stajan trade but I definitely think it would be a good starting block to Burke's inevitable roster shift.

The Maple Leafs should be content with their current record but that shouldn't stop Burke from putting a stamp on this roster. They should be accentuating players like Nik Antropov, Alexei Grabovski, Niklas Hagmen, Luke Schenn, Anton Stralman and Nikoli Kulemin (among others) by trading away such players as Stajan, Alexei Ponikarovsky, and Jason Blake to further compliment them.

Don't get me wrong, I sincerely doubt that Burke will be able to unload Jason Blake on anybody. Even if Mike Milbury was still running the New York Islanders I would still believe the Leafs are stuck with this bonehead of a contract. He'll continue to take ice time away from younger, deserving players until his contract expires. But, again, the point of this blog was to illustrate why I think Stajan should be moved. Even though I am sure some people will disagree, I would even go so far as to move Kaberle to one of the teams he has supposedly added to a list of teams he'd agree to be moved to. Maybe I'm hoping for too much. Let's just start by capitalizing on Stajan's value and in turn creating that much more opportunity for the growth and development of the young players that truly are the future of the Maple Leafs.

If you're interested, visit my other blog (Red Wings Blog) at http://marcsredwingsblog.blogspot.com/

Time for D'Agostini to get an apartment in Montreal

2008-12-10T11:33:00.009-05:00

After playing 20 games with the Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL, during which he recorded 14 goals and 11 assists for 25 points, forward Matt D'Agostini was recalled by the Montreal Canadiens on November 28th.

After watching his first game from the press box in Washington, a 3-0 loss, D'Agostini was inserted in the line-up the next day at home against the Buffalo Sabres. D'Agostini, 22, played 13:52 that night, finishing with a +1 differential.

Paired with captain Saku Koivu and Andrei Kostitsyn, the Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. native has shown flashes of brilliance since he was promoted to the Habs' first line. In five games with the Canadiens this season, D'Agostini now has 4 goals, 1 assist and a +4 differential. He is currently on a 4-game scoring streak.

The 6-0, 200 lb, right wing is only one of two right-handed forwards with the Habs this season (Robert Lang is the other) which gives the Canadiens another weapon on the power play. He uses his speed to find open areas on the ice and create scoring opportunities. He really likes to drive the net where he scores most of his goals.

D'Agostini might be the last year's Sergei Kostitsyn who was recalled in early December 2007. Kostitsyn sparked the Habs offense with his skills and speed, notching 27 points in 52 games after beginning the season with the Hamilton Bulldogs.

D'Agostini's fortune is Guillaume Latendresse's nightmare, the latter being a healthy scratch for the Habs last 4 games. After a quick start (6 points in 5 games), Latendresse slumped to a point where Guy Carbonneau had no choice, but the put him in the press box.

With the latest injury to Christopher Higgins (likely a separated shoulder), Latendresse is supposed to draw back into the lineup against the Lightning on Thursday. If the Habs were to lose Higgins for an extended period of time, look for GM Bob Gainey to tell Matt D'Agostini to get an apartment in Montreal to finish the season with the Habs.

D'Agostini was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the 6th round, 190th overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.

Toronto Marlies update

2008-12-10T10:32:00.003-05:00

Kris Newbury leads the team with 23 points (six goals, 17 assists).
Tim Stapleton ranks second on the Marlies with 22 points (four goals, 18 assists).
Jeremy Williams ranks third on the team in points with 14. Williams was recalled prior to Monday's game against the Islanders. Williams notched 1 goal and 1 assist in the 4-2 Leafs' victory.

Darryl Boyce leads the team with 67 penalty minutes.
Andre Deveaux made his NHL debut on November 27 against the Senators. He became the first player from the Bahamas to ever skate in an NHL game. This season in 13 games with the Marlies he recorded eight points (six goals, two assists) and ranked first on the team with 54 PIM before being called up.

Netminder Justin Pogge has 9 wins, 7 losses in 18 games. He has posted a 2.91 GAA to go with a .892 save %.

The Marlies currently rank fifth in the AHL North Division with an 11-10-0-2 record for 24 points through 23 games.

The Marlies won the North Division last season with a record of 50-21-3-6 for 109 points. The 109 points set a Maple Leafs affiliate record.

Darth Gerber starting vs Chicago tonight

2008-12-10T09:58:00.003-05:00

With the Senators 12th in the conference and in dire need of a lift back to the winning ledger, coach Craig Hartsburg has made the logic- defying decision to start Gerber in goal tonight against the Chicago Blackhawks, one of only four NHL teams to have hit the 90-goals-for plateau at the end of yesterday’s business hours.

It will be the first start in a more than a month for Gerber, and if he’s to get another one any time soon, he’ll have to play very well.He last played on November 7tth when he lost 2-1 to Carolina.

“With this busy week, it’s a good challenge for our team, but it’s a good challenge for Martin,” Hartsburg, who was expected to break up a back-to-back situation for Alex Auld by giving Gerber a game in either Washington Friday or back home against Tampa Saturday, said before climbing aboard a charter for the Windy City. “We trust that Martin can go in and play good for us.”
Source: Ottawa Sun

Habs Vs. The Natural

2008-12-10T08:38:00.003-05:00

Habs Inside/Out Had this yesterday how the Habs do against teams with a natural element to their name

Dandenault out with broken arm

2008-12-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

Canadiens's head coach Guy Carbonneau has just announced that defenceman Mathieu Dandenault is out with a broken arm suffered tonight in the second period when checked into the boards.

Dandenault finished the shift in great distress before he finally left the ice.

Expect D Ryan O'Byrne back in the lineup Thursday. No word yet on any callups.

Forward Christopher Higgins is headed to the doctor tomorrow for an MRI on what was reported to be an upper-body injury.

Carbo says he has no way of telling whether he's out for a day or six weeks.

Source: Dave Stubbs

Hi Everyone

2008-12-09T22:33:00.002-05:00

The creator of the blog invited me to start blogging for his site and I said I am for sure in. I will tell you a bit about myself, and do some real blogging later. I am in the middle of exams at University of Guelph so kinda busy right now. I been a hockey fan for as long as i know, I think since I was born. No one is a hockey fan really in my family except me. I remember by first game was in the Forum with my cousin and he bought me habs PJs which the top is on a teddy bear which i got when I was young. I remember the tremblay era god that was bad. You open The Gazette and instead of seeing a picture of the habs you see Tremblay biting his tie or something. Then there was Houle who would flip flop between rebuilding and going for the that year. Then the Roy incident, thank god i was young because if I was older I do not know what I would have done.

I am currently in Ontario, and I follow the habs as much as I can. I read hockey everyday and crave too know as much as I can. Usually hockey takes me away from studying. I read up about every team. So I know what is happening through the whole NHL.

For something quick as my first post and would be weekly I will do a weekly North East Ranking on the week they had. So let me begin starting Dec. 1st ending this Sunday Dec. 7th:

1. Boston - they are still having playing strong and has not tampered off from beginning of November. They have a few small injuries to Sturm but nothing to one of there big players. Both of there goalies are playing phenomenal, I do not see them trading Fernandez anytime soon. Lucic is playing amazing and is really having a year playing physical and putting in the goals.

2. Montreal - Finally looking back in form. They had 2 wins and 1 OTL. Beat Atlanta but a near loss after Atl tied the 3-0 game in the 3rd in 1 less than a minute, thankfully Montreal prevailed. The came all out and dominated the Rangers. which played the night before. Then a OTL to NJ which went to OT due to a soft goal let in by Price. Montreal lines are clicking 5 on 5 and even though Kovalev is on a slump he is getting assists which is nothign wrong with that. Komisarek coming back would make even better.

3. Ottawa - There first line is finally back together and Spezza got a hattie against the Pens. There two wins last week cannot be said they are back on track. They beat Atlanta which they shoulld have if they did not something would have happened in Ottawa. While beating Pittsburgh is an acomplishment which I am not taking away but they are wrecked in the back end and this would be the time you would want to play them with out Fleury, Whitney and Gonchar....and now well Gill. I would not take any of the J-Bo to Ottawa seriously who in Ottawa does Florida really want...

4. Buffalo - Been playing poorly latley and need to find there game quickly. Had a promising beginning of the season but since November it went down year and they ran out of the winning fumes from October. They were 1-2 last week and got shutout in one of there losses to Nashville to the rookie Pekka Rinne. They are missing there transitional game. They are missing Soupie and they need a player to replace him via "A" or trade. Until then unless they can get some help from forwards to bring it up and chip the puck to Vanek they will be playing like this and Ottawa could pass them.

5. Toronto - Last week they were on there Western swing. Where they won 1 out of 3 to the worse team out of the 3. Played LA, Phx and SJ. They were out of the SJ as soon as the puck was dropped but who was expecting them to come out and win, if they did would have been a big win for them, bigger than the Detroit win. Being really it was only the first period which they lost. They beat LA in the first game after being down 1-0 until the 3rd. Last game was 6-3 loss to the Coyotes which they loss in the 3rd was close until then. They would need a stronger game fron Toskala. The bright spot was Blake having a 3-pointer last week and just saying had one this week also.

Habs' Core In Need of a Shake-Up

2008-12-09T21:03:00.001-05:00

Twenty-six games into the season, and the Habs have recorded 35 points (15-6-5).

At first glance, it appears the Habs are performing nicely for their 100th anniversary, but dissecting the Habs' play will surface, for the most part, frustration amongst their fanbase.

That's not to say the Habs are playing poorly, but current indications suggest the Habs are not Stanley Cup quality.

The Habs' biggest problems stem from the following:

Lack of offensive defensemen

Beyond Andrei Markov, who do the Habs have on the team who is capable of generating offense on the back-end? GM Bob Gainey underestimated the impact of Mark Streit and Sheldon Souray, but it's nothing he can't fix. While calling-up AHL Hamilton Bulldogs' offensive defensemen like Yannik Weber and Mathieu Carle may fill the void, their impact come playoff time will come in question, and considering the Habs are going for the Cup this season, that's a risk they can't afford at the moment.

Lack of an elite forward

This season, Saku Koivu stands as the Habs' top point-producer with 22 points in 26 games. This is no disrespect to Koivu, but the Habs need a better offensive leader -- Koivu is a great leader, and those who watch him will never question his impact on the team, but offensively, it's time for a new face. And no offense to Alexei Kovalev, but the 34 year-old is inconsistent and cannot be depended on to lead this team to their 25th Stanley Cup.

I think Gainey will be considerably more active come the NHL Trade Deadline. Whether the pressure from the Habs' centennial season will prove to be beneficial or not is the question, but in a season like this, it's best for Habs fans to buckle up and follow the ride -- wherever it's going to take them.

All that said, here's my proposal to shape this club into a Stanley Cup caliber team:
Trade Kovalev and Higgins (and some prospects if need be).

That's it.

I won't mention potential players in return, but acquiring a top-4 defenseman and an offensive forward should be Gainey's top priorities at the Trade Deadline. If he has to package prospects to sweeten the pot (which he would most likely have to do), so be it. If it means bringing Montreal a Stanley Cup, Iâm sure the fans would oblige.

In unloading two forwards, the Habs' top two lines would look like this (ignore the line combos):

Tanguay - New Player - A.Kostitsyn
S.Kostitsyn - Koivu - Plekanec

Not to mention Markov would finally have a capable offensive defenseman to pass to on the PP.

This is just an idea, but one thing is for certain, Gainey will have to do something if he wants to reward Habs fans with the shiny silver Cup at season's end.

Sabres goalie Ryan Miller claims ref cursed at him

2008-12-09T18:08:00.002-05:00

by Mike Harrington at the Buffalo News:

The Buffalo Sabres weren't happy with the officiating during Monday's 4-3 win at Pittsburgh as they dealt with nine minor penalties and three two-man disadvantages.

Goaltender Ryan Miller called it a "slanted officiating job" today and said the men in stripes weren't behaving too well either.

At the end of a 5-1/2-minute session with reporters today in the Amherst Pepsi Center, Miller was asked about an end-of-practice chat with coach Lindy Ruff. The Buffalo goaltender revealed he was telling his coach that one of the officials swore at him during a stoppage in play a couple of minutes before the Sabres received a bench minor for arguing an interference call on Thomas Vanek.

"It was just about the referee last night, a brief conversation I had with the ref that was a little surprising to me," Miller said. "He told me to "go [bleep] myself' because I was just asking a question. I was just kind of joking around [to Ruff], saying, "Maybe that kind of started what got the bench minor going.'

"To be honest, I was respectful. I asked him a question and he told me maybe I should "go [bleep] myself."

Tim Peel and Justin St. Pierre worked the game. Asked which referee it was, Miller responded, "I'm not going to get into it" and Sabres spokesman Chris Bandura ended the session.

Ruff had already spoken to reporters by the time Miller's situation came to light. A call to the NHL for comment has not yet been returned.

Canadiens expected lines vs the Flames

2008-12-09T16:35:00.001-05:00

Forwards:
Alex Tanguay - Thomas Plekanec - Tom Kostopoulos
Andrei Kostitsyn - Saku Koivu - Matt D'Agostini
Chris Higgins - Robert Lang - Alex Kovalev
Steve Begin - Maxim Lapierre - George Laraque

Defence:
Andrei Markov - Josh Gorges
Roman Hamrlik - Mathieu Dandeanult
Francis Bouillon - Patrice Brisebois

Goaltender:
Jaroslav Halak

Injured players: Mike Komisarek
Healthy scratches: Ryan O'Byrne, Guillaume Latendresse, Sergei Kostitsyn

Tomas Plekanec will be a game-time decision, if he can't go, Sergei Kostitsyn will draw back into the lineup.

Luke Schenn more likely out one month

2008-12-09T14:44:00.001-05:00

TORONTO (Dec. 8) — Maple Leafs’ rookie defenseman Luke Schenn underwent an MRI exam on his injured knee Monday and it confirmed a ligament sprain that will sideline him for as much as four weeks, but certainly more than the initial two-week estimate from coach Ron Wilson.

“No knee injury like this heals in two weeks,” said a Leafs’ official. “It is a ligament problem — but not his ACL — and he won’t need surgery. He could miss up to a month.”

Schenn hurt the knee on an innocent-looking hit by Washington’s Alexander Ovechkin early in the second period of Saturday night’s 2-1 loss to the Capitals at the Air Canada Centre. Schenn’s leg was planted when Ovechkin rammed into him, and that’s how the ligament damage occured. Until the injury, Schenn had played in all 27 Leaf games this season, and Wilson has repeatedly called him the club’s “top defensive defenseman."