random rumors

[Shell]

PRINCE OF PUCKS: Arvedson hard to please
BY SPECTOR
Special to FOXSports.com
Aug. 22, 2003 2:49 p.m.

The Toronto Sun reports former Ottawa Senators winger Magnus Arvedson has rejected "concrete offers" from four clubs, apparently because he didn't want to play in the cities where they're based. It's unknown what teams made those offers, but the Sun claims the New York Rangers, Atlanta Thrashers, Vancouver Canucks, San Jose Sharks and St. Louis Blues have some interest in him. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also believed to have made a one-year offer, but Arvedson is thought to be seeking a three-year, $7.5 million contract.
There's also talk that Arvedson and fellow Don Meehan client Oleg Tverdovsky could opt to play in Europe next season if they don't receive any offers to their liking soon.

These two have the misfortune of being unrestricted free agents at a time when teams are either maintaining or dumping salaries in anticipation of the next Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Still, with the salary arbitration period now over, there might be some movement by teams looking to fill the final gaps in their rosters between now and the opening of training camp. Perhaps Arvedson and Tverdovsky will find what they're seeking then.


Curtis Joseph's recent ankle surgery only further complicates the Detroit Red Wings efforts to move the netminder prior to next month's training camp.
Despite the assertions of Joseph's agent that his client will only be sidelined for six weeks, the Toronto Sun (which first broke the story) suggests it could take longer than that for "Cujo" to get back into game shape.

Worse, the Wings could be facing the possibility of Joseph still on their roster when the season begins in October. That could necessitate making Joseph the backup for Dominik Hasek and getting him into a few games in order to prove to prospective suitors that he's made a full recovery from his surgery.


Mike O'Connell may still be interested in Bringing Cujo to the Bruins.

Meanwhile, it's believed Boston Bruins GM Mike O'Connell will still contact Wings GM Ken Holland regarding a potential deal for Cujo, although at this point it seems unlikely anything will be arranged while Joseph's on the sidelines.

This could be a moot point if the Wings make Joseph available in the waiver draft next month and another club scoops him up. That seems unlikely, given his hefty salary and his recovery from surgery. The Wings may not have much choice in the matter, as they'll obviously protect Dominik Hasek and can't afford to leave affordable backup Manny Legace unprotected.


Commenting on his club's efforts to move Joseph, Wings senior VP Jim Devellano claimed the Rangers and Thrashers had also expressed interest.
Now I'm not about to call Devellano a liar, as he obviously has the inside scoop on what's going on with his club. But to me, the suggestion of the Rangers and Thrashers joining the "Cujo sweepstakes" doesn't make sense.

Rangers GM Glen Sather stated nearly two months ago that he had no interest in Joseph, preferring to stick with Mike Dunham and recently acquired backup Jussi Markkanen. So unless Sather just can't resist the temptation of acquiring yet another overpaid veteran, it seems unlikely Joseph would be dealt to the Rangers.

As for the Thrashers, they're overloaded with goaltenders, with Byron Dafoe and Pasi Nurminen penciled in as their tandem next season. They also have much-hyped prospect Kari Lehtonen waiting in the wings,

If they were to trade for Joseph, they'd have to find a taker for Dafoe, who becomes an unrestricted free agent at season's end. And they still have to find someone to take Milan Hnilicka's contract off their hands.

Factor in a tight payroll, and it just doesn't make any sense for the Thrashers to pursue Joseph.

[Shell]

PRINCE OF PUCKS: Cutting ties with Tie?
BY SPECTOR
Special to FOXSports.com
Oct. 17, 2003 11:26 a.m.

The Toronto Sun's Al Strachan reported the Maple Leafs might be shopping tough-guy forward Tie Domi. Although Leafs GM John Ferguson Jr denies this, Strachan claims other general managers said Ferguson made it known during their recent meeting that the rugged winger was available. There supposedly isn't much interest in Domi, who rarely drops the gloves anymore and carry a $2 million salary this season.
Strachan also claims that head coach Pat Quinn regretted re-signing Domi last summer, when the Dallas Stars apparently offered the bruiser a $1.5 million contract, but the Leafs were under pressure to sign free agents at that time and re-signed him.

It sure doesn't take long for trade rumors to flare up in Toronto, particularly when the Maple Leafs are off to a less-than-impressive start. Perhaps Domi is available, but it seems unlikely Ferguson would be putting guys on the trade block less than two weeks into the season.

Some believe the Leafs won't move Domi because he's a fan favorite, but remember, Doug Gilmour was a fan favorite, and that carried no weight with Ferguson when he decided not to re-sign him this past summer.

My question is, if the Leafs were trying to dump Domi, why didn't they simply expose him in the waiver draft?
_______________

Larry Brooks of the NY Post reported Rangers GM/head coach Glen Sather, upset over the club's lackluster start to the season, ripped into his players during a recent team meeting. "Slats" apparently warned his charges that changes would be in the offing if they didn't improve their performance soon, and singled out Chris Simon, Anson Carter, Dan LaCouture and Alexei Kovalev.
The bottom line here is the Rangers roster is filled with expensive veterans who are tough to move. The worst thing Sather could do right now is send some of them down to the minors and bring up some kids from the farm. Given the salaries of most of his players and the new attitude toward fiscal responsibility amongst the other 29 clubs, it's a safe bet a lot of these guys would clear waivers easily.

Sather can get as mad as he wants, but he's the guy who put this current Rangers roster together and bears the responsibility for their success or failure. If he can't motivate them to elevate their performances this season, it's likely he'll be moved before any of his players are traded.
_______________

There was speculation the Chicago Blackhawks might consider moving center Alexei Zhamnov later in the season if the club wasn't in playoff contention. However, Zhamnov's recent back surgery and lengthy recuperation period means he won't be going anywhere for a while, if at all.
It could also affect his trade value down the road, depending on how well he recovers. John LeClair underwent two round of back surgery in recent years, and hasn't been the same player since. It remains to be seen if the same fate awaits Zhamnov.
_______________

The Calgary Herald reported Boston Bruins scout Tom McVie was seen at two recent Flames games, fueling speculation the B's could be shopping for some blueline help. Hey, if they want a defenseman, the Bruins could always sign free agent Bryan BerardÂ….oh, yeah, that's right, they took a pass on him because they could "no longer afford him". Never mind . . .
The Flames defense corps is deep in good young talent, and there was some talk in the off-season that Denis Gauthier might be available. However, the Flames would probably want a decent scoring forward in return, and that's a commodity the Bruins can't spare much of.
_______________

Is it possible there may be a break coming in the contract impasse between the Minnesota Wild and Marian Gaborik? According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Gaborik decided to take negotiations between himself and the club away from his primary agent, Allan Walsh, and handed them over to Walsh's partner, David Schatia.
Gaborik apparently believes this move will help ease tensions with the Wild management, who out of frustration last week made public their offer of a three-year, $9.5 million contract, and Walsh's insistence of a deal worth $6.5 million per season.

Publicly, Wild management claims this move changes nothing, as they're still negotiating with the same agency. However, a Slovakian radio station recently reported Gaborik had returned to the U.S. to hold face-to-face contract talks with the Wild. Stay tuned.

Meanwhile, don't expect Gaborik's teammate and fellow holdout, forward Pascal Dupuis, who is also represented by Schatia and Walsh, to follow suit. Dupuis claims he's pleased with the way Walsh is handling his negotiations.
_______________

Finally, remember all that talk during the off-season that the Montreal Canadiens might be forced to trade goaltender Jose Theodore because of his family's legal problems?
If his play over the past week is any indication, Theodore's off-ice problems won't be affecting his on-ice performance this season. After dropping their season opener 5-2 to the Ottawa Senators, the Habs and Theodore bounced back with impressive victories over the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins and their longtime rivals the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Thanks to an improved defensive game by his teammates, Theodore isn't seeing as much rubber as in years past, but he's still coming up with the big saves when they need them. If he maintains that strong play throughout the season, they'll be no more talk of Theodore getting dealt to Colorado.

[Guyute]

re: Domi

last year he Really surprised me. I've snagged him for PIMs for at least 3 years now. Last year he still put up PIMs, but was also putting up points. I was impressed. This year so far he's done squat. I saw that he said that he would retire before being traded...

so I guess Domi might about be done.

[lvscolencanes]

Sorry, but I hope he is, not a big Tie Domi fan. He is probably not wanting to be traded b/c nobody would really want him...JMHO....hope no offence taken :p !

[Guyute]

I'm not saying I Like him. never have. I just respect that last season he became more of an all-around player. he's always been just a goon. but he put some decent #'s up last year, and I was impressed.

there's very few enforcers that after being in the league that long, and only contributing hits/fights.... will one season just turn around and become more of a power forward than good. that's what Tie did last season, and it was impressive... no matter if you like the guy or not.

last season--
79 games played. 15g, 14a, 171 PIM. 4ppg, 2ppa

those aren't #'s for your avg goon. again, I don't like him as a player, but I do respect him. he's always been one of the best pugilists in the game.. and you could always count on him getting under the skin of everyone else. lol

fun domi fact: in 97 he played 80 games. 365 PIM. unreal. lol

[AbNormal27]

What you have to remember when it come to Domi is that he is not being utilized the way he was last year. This season he has not been put on the PP as much and he has been playing mostly on the 3rd line. Last year, with much help from Don Cherry, Domi saw time on the top lines and on special teams, and thus his role changed from enforcer to spark plug in special circumstances. Back in the day when he used 365 PIM a season, he was on the third line, usually with someone like Ken Baumgartner, who also wasn't known for his scoring prowess, and their line's job was to stir things up. I unfortunately get to see a lot of Leaf broadcasts in my area, and this is just how I see things in regards to this situation. If you take all the "info" coming out about the talk of Domi being shopped, I'd say that it has been created by the media and is nothing more than any other "controversy" that pops up in the REAL Hockeytown.

Aaryn

[lvscolencanes]

79 games played. 15g, 14a, 171 PIM. 4ppg, 2ppa

those aren't #'s for your avg goon. again, I don't like him as a player, but I do respect him. he's always been one of the best pugilists in the game.. and you could always count on him getting under the skin of everyone else. lol


Sure doe get under mine...gosh!! Love the words, I learned some cool words from ya Guy!! :D

I'd say that it has been created by the media and is nothing more than any other "controversy" that pops up in the REAL Hockeytown.

Aaryn

And what town would you be refering to MR!! I know you aint talkin about Toronto, even if you and all the clones live there, dont make it the REAL hockey town :p !!

[AbNormal27]

Speaking as a hockey purist and realist, Toronto has more business calling itself Hockeytown than Detroit does.

Aaryn

[lvscolencanes]

Well I detest Detroit more than the next person, I was thinking Raleigh has a nice ring to the real Hockey town...hee hee!! Ya right?!? :laugh:

[Shell]

[Unfortunately] I have to agree with Aaryn.. I think Toronto is most deserving of the moniker. They are just a completely different ball of wax.. the media, the players, the coaches, 24 hour Leafs TV, etc. JMO

[lvscolencanes]

I agree also, which I hated to do so, I was just kidding, which I guess I do too much....Much more than Detroit I would agree Toronto is more of the HOCKEY TOWN, sorry Twins... :D

[Lady J]

I agree also, which I hated to do so, I was just kidding, which I guess I do too much....Much more than Detroit I would agree Toronto is more of the HOCKEY TOWN, sorry Twins... :D

heh heh heh... hey baby, hate away! :evil: Its all good! Everyone is entitled to dislike whomever they wish :)


Toronto is fun to watch because they're so dastardly~ it's like a team full of ex-cons. It's convoluted, but I can't help but snigger. :evil:

[lvscolencanes]

I bet it is hilarious watching you "snigger" heehee!!!

:p :p

[Shell]

Devils in pursuit of Berezin
TSN.ca Staff
11/6/2003

The New Jersey Devils are reportedly the leading candidates to sign unrestricted free agent Sergei Berezin.

Sources tell the New York Post that while the New York Rangers and a half dozen other teams have also expressed interest in the 32 year old forward, the Devils appear to have the upper hand.

Berezin split last season between the Chicago Blackhawks and Washington Capitals, notching 23 goals and 40 points in 75 games. He was traded to Washington at the trade deadline for a fourth round pick by Chicago. It marked the fifth different team he has played for in the last three years.

Berezin's arrival could signal a potential trade down the road with Patrik Elias, Jeff Friesen, Jay Pandolfo, Sergei Brylin, Erik Rasmussen and Berezin all stacked on the left side.

[AbNormal27]

Sportsnet is reporting that the Penguins are looking to move Martin Straka and his 4.3 million salary. Apparently the Rangers (big surpirise), and the Kings have inquired about him.

Aaryn

[Jeff O Rocks]

Apparently the Rangers (big surpirise),



Who owns the Rangers and how come they have money for salaries oozing out the ying yang????

[Shell]

Apparently the Rangers (big surpirise),



Who owns the Rangers and how come they have money for salaries oozing out the ying yang????

From The Forbes 400, 9/30/02 (http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2002/0930/400264.html)
Charles Dolan
Worth: $500 million
Cable TV. Oyster Bay, N.Y.
75. Married, 6 children
Cable guy turned entertainment titan now facing wrath of angry shareholders who have watched Cablevision shares fall 90% in the past two years. Also dealing with the ire of George Steinbrenner and local Yankee fans for refusing to include Yankee Entertainment & Sports (YES) Network on Cablevision's basic service. Owns sports teams (basketball's New York Knicks, hockey's New York Rangers), cable channels (American Movie Classics, Bravo), movie theaters (Clearview Cinema Group), retail outlets (the Wiz) and Radio City Music Hall. But current cash crunch will likely force company to unload at least one piece of the empire.

[Jeff O Rocks]

Thanks Shell.. ;)

[Shell]

Trading season is about to start
Ross McKeon
Tuesday, December 9, 2003

General managers usually give their teams two months before assessing what they do and don't have, what they might want in a trade and whom they're willing to deal.

That's why it's safe to assume there will be deals struck shortly.

There are a number of teams clearly underachieving. Dallas, Ottawa, the New York Islanders and Washington fall into this group. Edmonton, Anaheim and Minnesota lurk on the periphery.

There are teams so dreadful, or desperate for change, they'd like to make a deal. Chicago, Pittsburgh, Carolina and Florida come to mind.

There are teams with Stanley Cup aspirations that might want to upgrade at a position such as Colorado in goal or Philadelphia on defense.

And there are teams with assets they want to unload -- Edmonton and Mike Comrie, Detroit and Curtis Joseph, Washington and Jaromir Jagr -- quite willing to find a dance partner.

How eager are some GMs to strike a deal?

"This isn't a team playing as a team, not a team acting as a team, not a team that looks like it cares, even though I know it does,'' Islanders GM Mike Milbury said last week. "If we can't get through it in quick order, there's no choice. Something has to give. And somebody has to go. Anybody.''

Here are a few familiar names that might change addresses: Radek Bonk, Jeff O'Neill, Pierre Turgeon, Michael Peca, Mariusz Czerkawski, Mark Parrish, Tony Amonte, Comrie, Joseph and Jagr.

No doubting Thomas: Speaking of deals, the Wings did well to sign unrestricted free agent Steve Thomas six weeks into the season. Thomas had six goals and 10 points in 12 games before Monday, much like his rebirth in Anaheim last season after a late-season trade from Chicago.

"He's a 40-year-old bulldog,'' teammate Brett Hull said. "If you didn't know how old he was, you'd think he was 27. He's fast, he's strong, he's a relentless worker and he's smart. I don't know what the teams in this league were thinking who missed him, but I'm glad we got him.''

Big meeting: The NHL's Board of Governors wind up two days of meetings in Palm Beach, Fla. They are expected to discuss strategy for negotiations with regard to a new collective bargaining agreement. And after they continue to insist on "cost certainties" (i.e., salary cap), they'll move to other topics including the thought of changing the point value for a regulation victory (three instead of two). Don't expect any radical changes quite yet.

Flame on fire: Shean Donovan had 67 goals in 536 games over nine NHL seasons spent with five different teams before this season. He's currently riding a six-game goal-scoring streak, and capped his recent explosion of offense with his first career hat trick Sunday against Pittsburgh, the team that traded him to Calgary last year.

"He's been an inspiration for everybody for the last three weeks,'' Martin Gelinas said of Donovan, originally drafted and developed by the Sharks.

"He's got a lot of speed as we all know, but he's finishing around the net right now. He's exciting to watch and to play with.''

Briefly: Shut out only three times all of last season, the Stars have been blanked twice that many times in just 28 games this season. ... Sabres defenseman James Patrick is doing something he's never done in his 20 NHL seasons, wearing the designation of captain in coach Lindy Ruff's system of rotating leadership each month. ... If the Senators ultimately decide that coach Jacques Martin must go, don't be surprised if GM John Muckler calls on John Paddock to come aboard. ... The Wild were carrying only 21 players -- two below the limit -- through the weekend. The reason: "Offensively,'' GM Doug Risebrough said, "I don't think there's anybody in the system now who will make a difference.''

[PennsylvaniaCanesFan]

Jeff O on the trading block? News to all of us. I would think you would wanna keep him.

[constantpressure]

Jeff O on the trading block? News to all of us. I would think you would wanna keep him.

It isn't the players that are the problem. Jeff would probably be happy to get traded. I am sure his numbers would go up elsewhere. Mo is an excellent coach at undeveloping talent. It isn't his fault that we always have good rookies/young players but after two three years they can't play hockey anymore. It is solely the players fault. Mo is a great X's and O's man, it is just that the players aren't getting it done.

[MoBigRed]

Jeff O on the trading block? News to all of us. I would think you would wanna keep him.


I've heard of one too many instances where O'Neill and Maurice didn't see eye to eye. And O'Neill is one of the biggest names on the team league-wide. If the team is sucking and Maurice has a lifetime contract, then i wouldn't be surprised to see O'Neill disappear.

Personally i'd rather see Maurice go, but i won't get into that here.

Hmmm. If O'Neill does go, Maurice will be the only holdover from Hartford, right? Unless i'm forgetting someone (and this is unless you count Wesley, who left and came back).

An entire roster overhaul aside from the coach, and where are the Canes?

But i won't get in to that here...

[RIO]

Changing out more players isn't going to fix anything. I can't believe that line of thought is still being pursued. We already *have* talent. They just aren't in lucid cohesion. It's like having (I know, I know... another car reference... bear with me) all the great parts for a very hot GTX or Camaro and having all the parts lying on the ground near each other instead of bolted together under the hood where they'll be working and doing their respective jobs. An engine won't run if it's not properly assembled and tuned and put into the right car. (Unfortunately I know what this feels like first hand... *has unpleasant flashbacks to a certain doomed Cadillac transplant and goes into the fetal position* )

[Guyute]

I believe O is the only player who has publicly spoken against Mo in the past.... that is still with the team. just something to keep in mind.

I'm not saying it'd be right to trade him, because it wouldn't be. coaching is the problem. But, if someone does get traded... it won't surprise me one bit if it's Jeff.

[Jeff O Rocks]

:sad: :cry:

[Shell]

An ugly overtime loss to the Florida Panthers on Thursday has set in motion another round of rumors that Philadelphia Flyers coach Ken Hitchcock wants an upgrade in goal. Hitchcock's issue isn't necessarily with Robert Esche. He's been the Flyers' best player on many an outing, although he's lacking playoff experience. Instead, it's Jeff Hackett's struggles that are piling up to the point of concern.

After Hackett let in an unscreened blow-by from Val Bure for the game winner on a night in which he faced just 19 shots, Hitchcock said, "I'm not commenting on the goaltending until the playoffs. Talk to me in May."

That's hardly an endorsement or an attempt to shield the veteran netminder. Hackett is 1-7-2 in his last 10 starts through Jan. 8, and although the Flyers are an elite team in many respects, they don't generate a huge number of goals. In close-to-the-vest games, Hitchcock's system demands goaltending excellence. Hackett hasn't provided it.

The Flyers certainly couldn't help but notice that Sabres goalie Martin Biron, oft rumored to be on the trading block, pretty much stoned them in a 1-1 tie the previous night in Buffalo. Biron made 44 saves in that game, many of them outstanding. The problem for the Flyers is that although Esche has just 30 minutes of NHL playoff experience to his credit, Biron has none.

[Guyute]

don't think we have a goalie trade rumor thread, so I'm just dumping this in here.

Burke, Khabibulin not going anywhere?
Associated Press
1/13/2004

The success of backup goalies Brian Boucher in Phoenix and John Grahame in Tampa Bay has started up the rumour mill.

While both NHL clubs categorically deny shopping their No. 1 goalie, there is talk of possible trades involving star netminders Sean Burke of the Coyotes and Nikolai Khabibulin of the Lightning.

Khabibulin, who turned 31 on Tuesday, hasn't played since Jan. 6 while Grahame was looking for his fourth straight victory Tuesday night against Pittsburgh, fuelling the latest trade talk. But Lightning general manager Jay Feaster says his backup goalie's recent run doesn't mean Khabibulin is a goner.

``Nothing has changed in that regard,'' Feaster said from Tampa. ``To me it's like Brian Boucher in Phoenix. They rode him during his streak and why not? We're going to do the same with Grahame.''

Boucher's record shutout streak in Phoenix, which was snapped on Sunday, has had the $4.5-million US Burke sitting on the bench for more than two weeks and that was to continue Tuesday night against Vancouver with head coach Bob Francis deciding to give Boucher a seventh straight start.

But that doesn't mean Burke is going anywhere, according to GM Mike Barnett.

``We've felt since as early as training camp that we had as good a 1-2 tandem as anyone in the league,'' Barnett said from Phoenix. ``Obviously Sean Burke was and continues to be a big part of that. He's a veteran in our room and the other 22 players on the roster feed from him on a daily basis.

``It's something we'd like to be able to continue to consider a major part of our arsenal as we go down the playoff stretch.''

The Philadelphia Flyers and Boston Bruins could be looking for goalie help heading into the March 9 trading deadline. The Flyers are reportedly unhappy with veteran Jeff Hackett and may feel Robert Esche isn't ready to carry the team despite his solid season. Similarly, veteran Felix Potvin hasn't carried the mail in Beantown and the club may not want to enter the post-season riding the young Andrew Raycroft.

Further skewing matters is the situation with Curtis Joseph in Detroit, a star goalie available to anyone just over a month ago. But Red Wings GM Ken Holland told CP last week that he was considering keeping all three of his goalies for the rest of the year because Dominik Hasek continues to recover from groin problems and Joseph has sparkled since being recalled from the AHL. That means one less netminder on the market.

Perhaps the Calgary Flames will enter the fray when all three of their goalies are healthy at the same time. But will be the odd man out be Miikka Kiprusoff, Roman Turek or Jamie McLennan?

Meanwhile, the Khabibulin trade talk also stems from the fact he has a $6.5-million team option next season, a $2-million raise from this year. Compare that to the 28-year-old Grahame, who is signed for another two seasons at $1.25 million in 2004-5 and $1.5 million in 2005-06 - a real bargain.

Should Tampa decide not to pick up Khabibulin's option, he'll become an unrestricted free agent July 1. And that's why rumours have the Bolts shopping him around.

Not true, says Feaster.

``We think we need both goalies to win our division and win in the playoffs,'' Feaster said. ``We have a luxury and we want to keep it.''

With the $2-million Boucher hitting his stride and a $550,000 capable backup in Zac Bierk soon to come off injured reserve, observers feel the Coyotes can afford to deal Burke, who will turn 37 later this month. Boucher, 27, has a club option next year at $2.5 million.

But unless the Flyers or Bruins come up with a package that the Coyotes simply could not refuse, it doesn't sound like Burke will be moved. And the fact that Burke has a mutual team and player option next season at $4.25 million isn't a factor, either.

``No, we're really at a point now where economically the franchise has taken a real positive step forward with the arrival of the new arena and the revenue stream that now is being generated from it,'' Barnett said. ``In the past decisions were made that in many cases were economically driven.

``Any decisions that are going to be made now are going to be on the basis of being solid, strong hockey moves.''

[puckin_A]

Nothing has changed in that regard,'' Feaster said from Tampa. ``To me it's like Brian Boucher in Phoenix. They rode him during his streak and why not? We're going to do the same with Grahame.''



sounds like Weekes last year. Yes, bring in the Bullin wall for Weekes
back up this time. ;)

[talkingcanes]

Rumor mill open for business
By Alan Adams | NHL.com columnist
February 2, 2004

Sources say . . .

Get ready to hear or read those words now more than ever.

When the Washington Capitals sent Jaromir Jagr to the New York Rangers, it signaled the official opening of the NHL's trade season, although you could say the Carolina Hurricanes and Philadelphia Flyers beat them to the bell in the Danny Markov for Justin Williams deal.

And we all know what goes hand in hand with the trade season, the always active -- but not always accurate -- rumor mill.

Yes hockey fans it's that time of the year again.

Between now and the March 9 NHL trade deadline, don't be surprised if anyone and everyone in the NHL is linked to a trade rumor of some fashion. Trade rumors are as much a part of hockey as scoring and line changes.

Canadians love rumors and we are a country of rumor mongers.


Alan Adams has covered hockey since 1984 with the Canadian Press, Toronto Star and National Post. He also has covered three Winter Olympics (1988, 1994 and 1998). Adams also is a contributor to stlouisblues.com and his column on all things Canadian will appear each week on NHL.com.

Canadians love to read rumors in the newspapers and hear them discussed on radio or television. They talk about them at the office or over chicken wings in their neighborhood pub or on the bench during their beer-league games.

The rumor mill is one of those 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year cottage industries.

There isn't a Canadian who plays hockey or is a fan of hockey who doesn't have an opinion of how their favorite team could be improved. We're a country of couch general managers and we eat rumors up like nobody else. Fans like to wonder what is going to happen with their favorite club. Maybe they don't want anything to happen and are worried about chemistry and they listen intently to what may happen.

Canadians can't wait for the next rumor to spring up.

Trade rumors are entertaining. Rumors are part the game and the period of time between now and the trade deadline is one of the most entertaining parts of the year for fans. It sure beats focusing on the dog days of the season.

If there was no trade deadline, there would be no rumors and a rumor-less NHL would be about as much fun as watching the neutral zone trap smother a creative offence.

If there was no deadline, fans wouldn't hear that Toronto is one of five teams apparently in the hunt for Washington's Peter Bondra. Those same fans would not read about "sources" saying that Philadelphia needs a goalie or that New Jersey is looking hard to add scoring or how Vancouver may want to add a depth defenceman.

Pick and team and there's a rumor out there somewhere about them.

Get the picture?

Some consider Philadelphia's acquisition of defenseman Danny Markov to be the beginning of the trade moves.
It's only going to get worse, especially since NHL general managers are gathering later this week in Minnesota for the All-Star Game before they head off for their annual meetings. That being the case, you know the rumor mill will be spinning out of control faster than ever.

How do rumors start? Here's a couple of examples.

A couple years ago, Philadelphia GM Bob Clarke tapped then San Jose GM Dean Lombardi on the shoulder at one of these GMs meetings and invited him outside for a coffee. Shortly after, a reporter was talking to the GM of the team he covers and the GM mentioned how Clarke and Lombardi left the room and didn't return for about 10 minutes. The writer and the GM then surmised that if a trade was to be made, it would have to be Eric Lindros for Teemu Selanne. The rumor was born and it had a shelf life for about a week. The deal - if there was ever one - didn't work out.

Names of players who are or may be on the trading block are planted by agents looking to get their client moved out of a certain town, while GMs drop the occasional name of a player as trade bait to drum up interest. Some executives like to plant names of players on opposing teams in an effort to create a distraction on that team, and it's not beyond a reporter to concoct a scenario he thinks would make sense and this happens more times that you care to know about.

Case in point over the weekend when, during a televised panel, a reporter mentioned that since Edmonton goalie Tommy Salo has a big contract and since the Oilers are, in the opinion spinning of this scribe to be their wheels, it would make sense that Salo is on the trade market. The scenario is heard by those watching the game and the rumor has a life.

In other words, keep more than a grain of salt at close quarters as the March 9 deadline nears.

Accuracy isn't an issue and the only thing you can say for sure about rumors is that they are here to stay.

It's no secret in NHL circles that teams are shopping players. Teams are always looking to shave salary demands and there is always the rent-a-player scenario. There are 30 GMs looking to improve their rosters. That's their job.

The Markov and Jagr deals marked the first indication of the season that GMs are starting to gear up with the playoffs in mind. And there's certainly is some pressure on any GM with high playoff aspirations to get a deal done before a coveted player disappears.

But no one with certainty what kind of quality players, if any, will be available at the trading deadline.

So get ready for the rumor mill to be in overdrive.

Meanwhile, did you hear that ...

[talkingcanes]

Rumor mill open for business
By Alan Adams | NHL.com columnist
February 2, 2004

Sources say . . .

Get ready to hear or read those words now more than ever.

When the Washington Capitals sent Jaromir Jagr to the New York Rangers, it signaled the official opening of the NHL's trade season, although you could say the Carolina Hurricanes and Philadelphia Flyers beat them to the bell in the Danny Markov for Justin Williams deal.

And we all know what goes hand in hand with the trade season, the always active -- but not always accurate -- rumor mill.

Yes hockey fans it's that time of the year again.

Between now and the March 9 NHL trade deadline, don't be surprised if anyone and everyone in the NHL is linked to a trade rumor of some fashion. Trade rumors are as much a part of hockey as scoring and line changes.

Canadians love rumors and we are a country of rumor mongers.


Alan Adams has covered hockey since 1984 with the Canadian Press, Toronto Star and National Post. He also has covered three Winter Olympics (1988, 1994 and 1998). Adams also is a contributor to stlouisblues.com and his column on all things Canadian will appear each week on NHL.com.

Canadians love to read rumors in the newspapers and hear them discussed on radio or television. They talk about them at the office or over chicken wings in their neighborhood pub or on the bench during their beer-league games.

The rumor mill is one of those 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year cottage industries.

There isn't a Canadian who plays hockey or is a fan of hockey who doesn't have an opinion of how their favorite team could be improved. We're a country of couch general managers and we eat rumors up like nobody else. Fans like to wonder what is going to happen with their favorite club. Maybe they don't want anything to happen and are worried about chemistry and they listen intently to what may happen.

Canadians can't wait for the next rumor to spring up.

Trade rumors are entertaining. Rumors are part the game and the period of time between now and the trade deadline is one of the most entertaining parts of the year for fans. It sure beats focusing on the dog days of the season.

If there was no trade deadline, there would be no rumors and a rumor-less NHL would be about as much fun as watching the neutral zone trap smother a creative offence.

If there was no deadline, fans wouldn't hear that Toronto is one of five teams apparently in the hunt for Washington's Peter Bondra. Those same fans would not read about "sources" saying that Philadelphia needs a goalie or that New Jersey is looking hard to add scoring or how Vancouver may want to add a depth defenceman.

Pick and team and there's a rumor out there somewhere about them.

Get the picture?

Some consider Philadelphia's acquisition of defenseman Danny Markov to be the beginning of the trade moves.
It's only going to get worse, especially since NHL general managers are gathering later this week in Minnesota for the All-Star Game before they head off for their annual meetings. That being the case, you know the rumor mill will be spinning out of control faster than ever.

How do rumors start? Here's a couple of examples.

A couple years ago, Philadelphia GM Bob Clarke tapped then San Jose GM Dean Lombardi on the shoulder at one of these GMs meetings and invited him outside for a coffee. Shortly after, a reporter was talking to the GM of the team he covers and the GM mentioned how Clarke and Lombardi left the room and didn't return for about 10 minutes. The writer and the GM then surmised that if a trade was to be made, it would have to be Eric Lindros for Teemu Selanne. The rumor was born and it had a shelf life for about a week. The deal - if there was ever one - didn't work out.

Names of players who are or may be on the trading block are planted by agents looking to get their client moved out of a certain town, while GMs drop the occasional name of a player as trade bait to drum up interest. Some executives like to plant names of players on opposing teams in an effort to create a distraction on that team, and it's not beyond a reporter to concoct a scenario he thinks would make sense and this happens more times that you care to know about.

Case in point over the weekend when, during a televised panel, a reporter mentioned that since Edmonton goalie Tommy Salo has a big contract and since the Oilers are, in the opinion spinning of this scribe to be their wheels, it would make sense that Salo is on the trade market. The scenario is heard by those watching the game and the rumor has a life.

In other words, keep more than a grain of salt at close quarters as the March 9 deadline nears.

Accuracy isn't an issue and the only thing you can say for sure about rumors is that they are here to stay.

It's no secret in NHL circles that teams are shopping players. Teams are always looking to shave salary demands and there is always the rent-a-player scenario. There are 30 GMs looking to improve their rosters. That's their job.

The Markov and Jagr deals marked the first indication of the season that GMs are starting to gear up with the playoffs in mind. And there's certainly is some pressure on any GM with high playoff aspirations to get a deal done before a coveted player disappears.

But no one with certainty what kind of quality players, if any, will be available at the trading deadline.

So get ready for the rumor mill to be in overdrive.

Meanwhile, did you hear that ...

[Mookie]

My peeps are still investigating the validity of this one: NHL.com is supposedly looking to swap columnist Alan Adams to the NandO for Luke DeCock and his etch-a-sketch. Stay tuned...

[Mookie]

My peeps are still investigating the validity of this one: NHL.com is supposedly looking to swap columnist Alan Adams to the NandO for Luke DeCock and his etch-a-sketch. Stay tuned...

[Jeff O Rocks]

My peeps are still investigating the validity of this one: NHL.com is supposedly looking to swap columnist Alan Adams to the NandO for Luke DeCock and his etch-a-sketch. Stay tuned...

DeCock is not worth a broken etch-a-sketch.. :beatup:

[Jeff O Rocks]

My peeps are still investigating the validity of this one: NHL.com is supposedly looking to swap columnist Alan Adams to the NandO for Luke DeCock and his etch-a-sketch. Stay tuned...

DeCock is not worth a broken etch-a-sketch.. :beatup:

[RIO]

Here's a rumor. Canada is COLD. Pass it on.

[RIO]

Here's a rumor. Canada is COLD. Pass it on.

[AbNormal27]

Here's a rumor. Canada is COLD. Pass it on.

What? Canada COLD? In February? Come on RIO, if you're going to start rumours, at least make one that's believable...... (opens door, checks the weather outside :eek: )........... uh, nevermind :p .

Aaryn

PS: RIO wears pink underwear..... pass it on.

[AbNormal27]

Here's a rumor. Canada is COLD. Pass it on.

What? Canada COLD? In February? Come on RIO, if you're going to start rumours, at least make one that's believable...... (opens door, checks the weather outside :eek: )........... uh, nevermind :p .

Aaryn

PS: RIO wears pink underwear..... pass it on.

[lvscolencanes]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)

[lvscolencanes]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)

[RIO]

PS: RIO wears pink underwear..... pass it on.

That's not a rumor.

[RIO]

PS: RIO wears pink underwear..... pass it on.

That's not a rumor.

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

[moonstomper]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

whatta scoop!

*runs off to the printing press*

[moonstomper]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

whatta scoop!

*runs off to the printing press*

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

whatta scoop!

*runs off to the printing press*

Damn....we are all crazy.. what are we gonna do after April 4th?? **contemplates wearing my underwear on my head for entertainment** :crazy:

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

whatta scoop!

*runs off to the printing press*

Damn....we are all crazy.. what are we gonna do after April 4th?? **contemplates wearing my underwear on my head for entertainment** :crazy:

[RIO]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

*comes full circle* I blame Canada for my downfall. :evil:

[RIO]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

*comes full circle* I blame Canada for my downfall. :evil:

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

*comes full circle* I blame Canada for my downfall. :evil:

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

[Jeff O Rocks]

To add to the rumor..she wears the pink underwear on her head! :p

*comes full circle* I blame Canada for my downfall. :evil:

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

[RIO]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)


Billy Idol recommended the shoes. I stand guiltless. :D

[RIO]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)


Billy Idol recommended the shoes. I stand guiltless. :D

[RIO]

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

*sulks* alright, FINE! So it's a B-vitamin issue! Sue me! :p

[RIO]

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

*sulks* alright, FINE! So it's a B-vitamin issue! Sue me! :p

[Jeff O Rocks]

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

*sulks* alright, FINE! So it's a B-vitamin issue! Sue me! :p

How did Billy Idol get in this.. I didn't know he was Canadian! :p ;)

[Jeff O Rocks]

I hardly think you can blame an entire country because you have bloomer issues! :p

*sulks* alright, FINE! So it's a B-vitamin issue! Sue me! :p

How did Billy Idol get in this.. I didn't know he was Canadian! :p ;)

[lvscolencanes]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)


Billy Idol recommended the shoes. I stand guiltless. :D


Oh no reason to feel guilt, I think the pink underwear on your head with yellow pumps was an awesome idea, I too thought of tryin it after April, I will be crazy by then anyway...

[lvscolencanes]

I just wanted to add to the Rio rumor, I heard that too Aaryn, and when she wears her pink underwear she has to where her bright yellow pumps with them... :D


Oops, pass it on... ;)


Billy Idol recommended the shoes. I stand guiltless. :D


Oh no reason to feel guilt, I think the pink underwear on your head with yellow pumps was an awesome idea, I too thought of tryin it after April, I will be crazy by then anyway...

[moonstomper]

EXTRA EXTRA! Read all about it!



Nation goes crazy for new under/outer wear fad

Raleigh NC - In what can only be described as as complete madness, the entire state of North Carolina has begun wearing panties on their heads. Many people returned from their lunch breaks, only to find their office had been taken over by the trend. Some blame canadians, others Billy Idol, but one thing is for sure, there is nothing quite as relaxing as slipping a pair of womens underwear on your head.

The Governer was unable to comment on the situation, although we did hear mumblings of "Im so pretty!" from beneath his bathroom door. Many people were given the rest of the day off to explore their new found sense of fashion. So far, there has been no reports of violence, mainly due to the fact that no matter how tough you are, you cant scare someone with panties on your head.

In many of our states prisons, inmates have been using Kool-Aid to dye thier briefs a shade of pink. Some, lucky enough to have their own panties, have been selling them for outrages prices. One pair reportadly went for 1,000 packs of Juicy Fruit gum.

And it all started with one brave woman. And her pink panties

[moonstomper]

EXTRA EXTRA! Read all about it!



Nation goes crazy for new under/outer wear fad

Raleigh NC - In what can only be described as as complete madness, the entire state of North Carolina has begun wearing panties on their heads. Many people returned from their lunch breaks, only to find their office had been taken over by the trend. Some blame canadians, others Billy Idol, but one thing is for sure, there is nothing quite as relaxing as slipping a pair of womens underwear on your head.

The Governer was unable to comment on the situation, although we did hear mumblings of "Im so pretty!" from beneath his bathroom door. Many people were given the rest of the day off to explore their new found sense of fashion. So far, there has been no reports of violence, mainly due to the fact that no matter how tough you are, you cant scare someone with panties on your head.

In many of our states prisons, inmates have been using Kool-Aid to dye thier briefs a shade of pink. Some, lucky enough to have their own panties, have been selling them for outrages prices. One pair reportadly went for 1,000 packs of Juicy Fruit gum.

And it all started with one brave woman. And her pink panties

[RIO]

*weeps* That... that was beautiful writing, Stompy. I was deeply affected.

Oh, and nice underpants. :smoke:

[RIO]

*weeps* That... that was beautiful writing, Stompy. I was deeply affected.

Oh, and nice underpants. :smoke:

[AbNormal27]

All Hail Queen RIO, her Majesty of Bloomers!

Aaryn

[AbNormal27]

All Hail Queen RIO, her Majesty of Bloomers!

Aaryn

[Jeff O Rocks]

Stompy that was great.. it made me lmao... the part about the Gov. really cracked me up.. Rio is such a trend starter! ;)

**puts moisturizer on face and white granny bloomers on head**

[Shell]

Contracts will influence trade market
By EJ Hradek
ESPN The Magazine

As the Sept. 15 expiration of the National Hockey League's collective bargaining agreement nears, general managers are keeping a very close eye on the bottom line while trying to remain competitive. Their financial prudence will have a definite impact on the marketplace during the weeks leading up to the March 9 trade deadline.

Teams that would have otherwise been willing to take on a player's big contract to make a serious run at a Stanley Cup will be weighing that player's contract status -- length and amount -- more heavily. And in some cases, a player's contract will determine if he will (or can) be traded.

With dollars and sense in mind, here is a contract breakdown of some of the more prominent names in the rumor mill. If any of these players are moved, you'll know exactly what your team is getting itself into. (Statistics through Feb. 1):

Goalies
Martin Biron, 26, Buffalo Sabres (14-10-4, 2.42, .917): Biron is in the final year of his contract, which pays him a base salary of $2.2 million and doesn't contain individual bonuses. Under the current free-agent system, he could be a restricted free agent on July 1, requiring his team to make a qualifying offer to retain his rights. Biron would be a good acquisition because of his age, experience level and price tag. But for those same reasons, the Sabres probably would want a first-round pick, top prospect or young NHL player in return.

Sean Burke, 37, Phoenix Coyotes (10-15-5, 2.81, .908): The veteran netminder has a current base salary of $4.5M with a player and team option for next season. Burke can exercise his option (which is very likely) at $4.25M or the team can exercise its option at $4.75M (which is very unlikely). Burke and the club have to exchange sealed envelops before June 30 to notify one another of their intentions. If both parties were to exercise their options, Burke's base salary would remain at $4.5M. He also has significant individual bonuses that could yield more than $500,000 in additional income. At this point, the Coyotes probably won't be able to get much in return for Burke and even may have to eat some money to move him.

Manny Fernandez, 29, Minnesota Wild (6-9-7, 2.39, .918): Fernandez signed a one-year deal last summer for $2.2M. He has individual bonuses starting at 20 wins, but he's unlikely to pass that threshold this season. If he makes the playoffs, he would be eligible for a $250K bonus if he won the Conn Smythe Trophy. Like Biron, Fernandez's age, experience level and price tag make him attractive, but his playoff performance last spring makes him even more valuable. The Wild would want value in return and stand a good chance of getting it.

Nikolai Khabibulin, 31, Tampa Bay Lightning (13-14-5, 2.36, .912): GM Jay Feaster says he isn't moving his No. 1 goalie, but if he changes his mind (GMs have been known to do that), he'll be saving quite a few bucks. Khabibulin's base salary is $3.5M this year with attainable bonuses that cap out at $1.25M. Tampa Bay has a club option on Khabibulin at $6.5M, with no individual bonuses, for next season. In its contract negotiation, the club agreed to the big pay raise for 2004-05 because Khabibulin was forfeiting the opportunity to test the market as a UFA by agreeing to a long-term contract. If the club doesn't exercise its option by June 30, they'll still owe him a $2M "kiss off" payment, payable on Oct. 1, 2005. Khabibulin would be a worthwhile investment for team that can afford him. Feaster would probably want a quality NHL player in return. Interestingly, if the club opted to cut its ties with Khabibulin after this season, they'd still owe him a total of $5M -- the $2M termination fee and $3M in deferred salary.

Olaf Kolzig, 34, Washington Capitals (14-27-4, 2.98, .902): Because of Kolzig's contract, GM George McPhee will be hard pressed to get much in return. Kolzig makes a base salary of $6.25M this season, will earn the same next season and gets a raise to $6.5M in 2005-06. So, any team that acquires Kolzig is on the hook for $12.75M over the next two seasons. If the Caps want to move him, they likely will have to pick up a good chunk of that money. As part of his contract, the Capitals also will have to pay Kolzig another $500K if they trade him.

Tommy Salo, 33, Edmonton Oilers (12-15-4, 2.59, .893): Salo makes a base salary of $3.9M this season, after which the club holds a two-pronged option: they can sign him for 2004-05 at $4.15M or they can sign him for two years at $4.35M per season. The cost-conscious Oilers likely will decline their options, allowing Salo to test the market. With that being the case, GM Kevin Lowe won't be expecting much in return. Salo might be good insurance for a team seeking some depth in the crease.

Roman Turek, 33, Calgary Flames (3-7-0, 2.93, .894): GM Darryl Sutter will be quick to shop Turek once new starter Miikka Kiprusoff returns from a knee injury. Turek makes a base salary of $4.25M this season and will earn $5M next season. The club holds a $5.25M option for the 2005-06 season. If they fail to exercise that option, they must pay him $1M. Because Kiprusoff and backup Jamie McLennan are reasonably priced, the Flames could afford to eat some of Turek's salary. If they want to trade him, they'll probably have to do just that.


Forwards
Peter Bondra, 36 (on Feb. 7), Washington Capitals (19-13-34, minus-14): A natural right winger who can also play the left side, Bondra's base salary stands at $4.5M. The club holds an option for next season at the same salary. If the Capitals forgo their option they'll still owe him $1M. While the terms of the option could hurt his trade value, Bondra is a worthwhile risk for the right team.

Rod Brind'Amour, 33, Carolina Hurricanes (5-12-17, minus-8): If GM Jim Rutherford can trade Brind'Amour without eating a major chunk of his contract, there ought to be an investigation. Brind'Amour makes a base salary of $5M this season, not including bonuses, and will earn the same amount in each of the next two seasons. Then, in 2006-07, he can exercise an option for another season at $4M. A dependable, hard-working center, Brind'Amour is overpriced at those numbers. He'll be very tough to trade.

Valeri Bure, 29, Florida Panthers (16-19-35, minus-1): Bure currently makes $3.1M and is in the final year of his contract. He can be a rental player for a playoff-bound team seeking a little offensive help on the right wing. If the Panthers can stay in the hunt for a playoff spot, they'll probably keep him.

Andrew Cassels, 34, Columbus Blue Jackets (5-11-16, minus-12): Cassels is out indefinitely with a broken foot. His contract calls for a base salary of $3.05M this season and next season, and a player option at the same amount for 2005-06. His trade value, already limited because of his contract, will depend on his health.

Robert Lang, 33, Washington Capitals (25-37-62, minus-1): Despite the fact that he's enjoying the best year of his career, Lang will be difficult to trade because his hefty contract. He currently earns $5M in base salary, not including individual bonuses, and is slated to make $5M in each of the next three seasons. If the Caps want to move him, they'll have to eat some salary again.

Georges Laraque, 27, Edmonton Oilers (2-5-7; plus-1; 57 PIMs): Teams looking for a tough guy who won't hurt the team defensively might be calling GM Kevin Lowe. Laraque, one of the game's best fighters, earns $1.275M this season and is under contract for two more seasons at $1.4 next year and $1.425 in 2005-06. Laraque has individual bonuses in his deal, but they don't start until he hits 10 goals or 25 points. In the right place, Laraque could be a very valuable addition.

Adam Oates, 41, Edmonton Oilers (0-7-7, minus-6): Oates signed a one-year, $1.925M (pro-rated) contract on Nov. 24. He'll likely add another $75K in bonus money. If a team thinks the playmaking pivot can still help, he's likely available for a late-round draft pick. Remember, less than a year ago, Oates helped the Ducks to the Cup final.

Jeff O'Neill, 28 (on Feb. 23), Carolina Hurricanes (10-17-27; minus-12): A three-time 30-goal scorer, O'Neill is skating in the final year of his contract, which pays him a base salary of $3.7. Under the current CBA, the club can keep his rights by making a qualifying offer. O'Neill remains a valuable asset despite a sub-par season. The Hurricanes might shop him, but they can demand value in return.

Geoff Sanderson, 32, Columbus Blue Jackets (9-13-22, minus-9): Sanderson earns a base salary of $3M this season, not including individual bonuses. He's scheduled to make $3M next season and $3.3M in 2005-06. Though he's cracked the 30-goal mark six times during his career, Sanderson will be tough to trade because of his contract.

Miroslav Satan, 29, Buffalo Sabres (18-13-31, minus-10): Satan is on the books for $4.75M this season and is scheduled to earn $5M next season. He's also owed a $250K bonus, payable on Jan. 10, 2005. Satan has great hands and a scorer's touch, but it will be hard to get value for him because of his contract.

Alexei Zhamnov, 33, Chicago Blackhawks. (5-9-14, minus-8): The Hawks will get plenty of calls for Zhamnov, who's making $4.5M in the final year of his contract. With no further financial obligation, interested teams won't hesitate to take a chance. The Hawks will have to create a bidding war to maximize the return on their asset.


Defensemen
Bob Boughner, 33, Carolina Hurricanes (0-5-5, minus-9, 80 PIMs): A hard-nosed defenseman who can help a contender, Boughner will attract several suitors on the trade market. He's skating in the final year of his contract, which pays him $2.15M. An interested team can rent him for the playoffs without any further financial obligation. The Hurricanes probably won't be able to get much more than a mid-round draft pick.

Sergei Gonchar, 30 (on April 13), Washington Capitals (5-38-43, minus-22): One of the league's top defensemen, Gonchar is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury. He's in the final year of his contract that pays him a base salary of $3.65M. Under the current CBA, the club can retain his rights by making a qualifying offer. If he's healthy, he's the most valuable asset in Washington and McPhee can demand value in return.

Sean Hill, 34 (on Feb. 14), Carolina Hurricanes (5-15-20, minus-10): Like teammate Boughner, Hill should be an attractive commodity on the trade market because of his contract status. However, because he's in the final year of a deal that pays him $2.05M this season, GM Jim Rutherford shouldn't expect anyone to offer him a sweetheart of a deal. If Rutherford moves Hill, he'll likely have to settle for a mid-round draft pick.

Scott Lachance, 31, Columbus Blue Jackets (0-2-2, minus-15): Although Lachance could probably help several teams, GM Doug MacLean could have a hard time moving him. Lachance makes a base salary of $2M and will earn the same amount in each of the next two seasons.

Luke Richardson, 35 (on March 26), Columbus Blue Jackets (0-3-3, minus-5): Another valuable role player, Richardson is overpriced in the current market. He makes $2.75M this season and will make the same amount in each of the following two seasons. Columbus likely would have to eat some salary to move the gritty defenseman.

Todd Simpson, 30, Anaheim Mighty Ducks (4-3-7; minus-6; 105 PIMs): Last year, GM Bryan Murray was a buyer at the trade deadline. This year, he'll be a seller. He should get a few calls about Simpson, who's in the final year of a $1.5M deal. With almost no financial risk, a contender might want to add Simpson for blue-line insurance. He won't bring more than a late-round draft pick in return.

Alexei Zhitnik, 31, Buffalo Sabres (4-18-22, minus-6): A veteran puck-moving defenseman with big-game experience in the final year of his contract ($3.75M), Zhitnik can be valuable bargaining chip for GM Darcy Regier. An interested team would have no further financial obligation to Zhitnik after the season.

[puckin_A]

EXTRA EXTRA! Read all about it!




The Governer was unable to comment on the situation, although we did hear mumblings of "Im so pretty!" from beneath his bathroom door. :laugh:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

NHL2Nite says Sean Burke is going to Philly. The deal will be reported either tomorrow after the game or Monday. They haven't said what the terms of the deal are.

[Captain Slack]

NHL2Nite says Sean Burke is going to Philly. The deal will be reported either tomorrow after the game or Monday. They haven't said what the terms of the deal are.

No surprise there. Hackett hasn't worked out like Clarke expected and they can't ride Eshe the rest of season once he's off IR.

The question is, will he backup Eshe or will he be the starter?

[talkingcanes]

Jackets placing players on trade block

The Washington Capitals aren't the only team in fire-sale mode. The Columbus Blue Jackets have a plethora of good young players on their team and in their system, which makes it less painful for them to bail out of the free-agent spending experiment they conducted last summer. Among the candidates available are veteran centers Andrew Cassels and Todd Marchant, left winger Geoff Sanderson and defenseman Scott Lachance.

While it looks like a money thing, it's also a team thing. GM Doug MacLean brought Cassels and Sanderson in because they can score goals, which is a good way to sell hockey in a new market. But neither player has a proven track record of winning in the NHL and it's likely MacLean doesn't want complacency to take root in what is still a very young and impressionable team.

That isn't the case with Marchant, however, MacLean has a replacement for him (read: younger and cheaper) in Manny Malhotra and he knows Marchant has value on the trade market, especially for a team looking for a good two-way center.


Jim Kelley is the NHL writer for ESPN.com.

[talkingcanes]

it's not a rumor, but I didn't want to start a new threadPredators acquire Sullivan for two second-round picks


COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - The Nashville Predators acquired forward Steve Sullivan from the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday for two second-round draft picks.

The 29-year-old Sullivan was the Blackhawks' leading scorer with 15 goals and 28 assists. He has two short-handed goals this season.

"To add a scorer of Sullivan's magnitude at this point, as we hunt for our first playoff appearance, is a major step for our franchise," Nashville general manager David Poile said. "He makes the Nashville Predators a more dangerous team offensively, he is reliable and effective in all situations and he will be a great addition to our core of veteran leadership."

Sullivan has scored more than 20 goals in each of the last five seasons and has reached at least 60 points in each of the last four. He has 166 goals and 253 assists in 573 games over nine seasons with New Jersey, Toronto and Chicago.

The Predators went into Monday night's game at Columbus with 63 points, one point behind Dallas and St. Louis for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Sullivan is expected to join the Predators on Wednesday when they host the San Jose Sharks.

The Blackhawks will get one pick in this year's draft and the other in 2005.

[nccanes]

God, why do I constantly confuse Nashville and Columbus. It always takes me like 10 seconds to realize exactly which team we're talking about. I knew I'd heard/read that Columbus would be getting ready to part with their vet players so this didn't make any sense at first - until I realized it's my mental block about those two teams. Dummy.

[talkingcanes]

Clarke may need a centre

PHILADELPHIA (CP) -- With the injuries to centres Jeremy Roenick and Keith Primeau, both suffering from concussions, Philadelphia Flyers general manager Bob Clarke may pull the trigger on another trade to help fill the void up the middle.

And this just over a week after trading Mike Comrie because he felt the team had too many centres.

"In the next couple of weeks, JR is going to have to let us know what his thinking is, how he's feeling," Clarke told Philadelphia reporters. "In the meantime, we're going to have to find out who has a centreman who might be available. ... We wouldn't get anybody until we know for sure how JR and Primeau are.

"We'll have to make a decision, probably by the end of the month, if we're going to pursue somebody," added Clarke. "The trading deadline is March 9, and if there's any doubt if JR wants to play anymore, then I think we'll have to do something."

[Jeff O Rocks]

Clarke may need a centre

PHILADELPHIA (CP) -- With the injuries to centres Jeremy Roenick and Keith Primeau, both suffering from concussions, Philadelphia Flyers general manager Bob Clarke may pull the trigger on another trade to help fill the void up the middle.



**hides all my Canes** :roll:

[Shell]

Wednesday, February 18, 2004
By EJ Hradek
ESPN The Magazine

With less than three weeks until the March 9 trade deadline, there's already a pretty clear line separating the buyers (postseason contenders looking to acquire a missing ingredient) and the sellers (non-playoff teams trying to dump salary).

By my very unofficial count, there currently are 11 sellers -- not including the Minnesota Wild, who stand on very thin ice, especially considering a schedule that will have them on the road for 11 of 14 games between Feb. 26 and March 25.

If the sellers are smart, they'll have their pro and amateur scouts working overtime to ensure complete and up-to-the-minute knowledge of every team's organizational roster -- from the NHL and minor leagues, over to Europe and down to the junior and college ranks. After all, with the looming expiration of the current collective bargaining agreement and the league's uncertain financial future, it will be a buyer's market -- and they won't be offering blue chips in return. Instead, they'll be offering veterans that don't fit, young pros who aren't quite ready, minor league prospects and/or draft picks.

A shrewd seller wants to maximize his return -- even if it's only draft picks -- while getting out from under a contract or moving a player who can leave via unrestricted free agency during the summer.

Here's a look at my sellers and what they have to offer.

Anaheim Mighty Ducks

Will the Ducks be willing to part with Petr Sykora?
Last spring, GM Bryan Murray was buyer, picking up Steve Thomas and Rob Niedermayer at the deadline. Both players were a big help during the Ducks' surprising run to the Stanley Cup final. A year later, Murray finds himself on the other end of the equation. He will get some calls about the availability of forwards Petr Sykora and Steve Rucchin, as well as defenseman Keith Carney. It seems that it would take a pretty serious offer to get any of those three players. "I don't think I'll trade the core players we have," Murray said. "But if somebody offers me two real good prospects, I'll listen."

Atlanta Thrashers
GM Don Waddell has publicly stated that he doesn't plan to sell off any of his players. "At this point, we're just going to try to win as many games as we can," Waddell said. "I think it's important for the franchise." Of course, if someone comes along with a great offer for a player like winger Shawn McEachern, Waddell might have to consider it. He would move backup goalie Byron Dafoe, if there were any interest. Dafoe doesn't figure in the club's future plans.

Carolina HurricanesTwo years removed from their magical playoff spring of 2002, GM Jim Rutherford is shopping a bunch of players. He'd love to move center Rod Brind'Amour, who's scheduled to earn at least $14M during the next three seasons. Unfortunately, with that contract, Brind'Amour is virtually untradeable. Defenseman Bret Hedican is another player who will be tough to move because of his long-term deal. Rutherford should have an easier time dealing veteran defensemen Bob Boughner, Sean Hill and/or Glen Wesley. If a buyer is desperate for a backup goalie, Arturs Irbe has recently returned from ECHL exile. Irbe is due $2.5M in the 2004-05 season (if there is one). At this point, Rutherford says he's not trading captain Ron Francis, and he'd have to get a serious offer to move right winger/center Jeff O'Neill.

Chicago Blackhawks
With the exception of rookie Tuomo Ruutu, the Hawks will listen to offers for any of their players. They started their clearance sale by shipping center Steve Sullivan to the Predators for a pair of second-round draft picks (one in each of the next two drafts). The club's most tradeable asset is center Alexei Zhamnov, who can be an unrestricted free agent at season's end. Zhamnov, who likes Chicago, could be traded, then return via free agency in the offseason. Former Avs pest Ville Nieminen and defenders Bryan Berard, Stephane Robidas and oft-injured Alexander Karpovtsev might attract some interest around the league.

Columbus Blue Jackets
GM Doug MacLean did a nice job moving Darryl Sydor -- and his big-ticket contract -- to the Lightning on Jan. 27. MacLean claims he won't be making many waves at the deadline, but it would make sense for him to try to move veteran defensemen Scott Lachance and/or Luke Richardson. Both players are under contract through the 2005-06 season. However, Lachance will earn $2M per season, while Richardson will pocket $2.75M each year, making it difficult to move either. MacLean should be listening to offers -- if there are any -- for forwards Geoff Sanderson and Andrew Cassels, who has been out since early January with a broken foot. Both Sanderson and Cassels also have two years remaining on their contracts.

Edmonton Oilers
Last spring, GM Kevin Lowe sent defenseman Janne Niinimaa and forward Anson Carter packing in separate deals. Who goes this year? Rumors suggest that Lowe has been listening to offers for left winger Ryan Smyth, but you can't always believe what you hear. Veterans Adam Oates and Igor Ulanov might attract some interest. Captain Jason Smith would be an interesting chip for Lowe. If another club made the right offer, he might be willing to move Smith.

Florida Panthers
If nothing else, GM Rick Dudley isn't afraid to shake up his roster. He does have five untouchables (Stephen Weiss, Nathan Horton, Jay Bouwmeester, Branislav Mezei and Roberto Luongo). After that, Dudley will listen to offers for anyone else on his roster, including Olli Jokinen, Viktor Kozlov and Valeri Bure, who is currently sidelined by a groin strain. Dudley will probably get a few calls about Lyle Odelein, though Dudley will be in a better position to move the veteran defenseman when some of his injured blueliners return to the lineup.

New York Rangers
Brian Leetch in anything but blue? Difficult to believe, but it's true.
GM/head coach Glen Sather could begin the fire sale at any time. The Rangers, despite all the big names and big money, are going to miss the playoffs for the seventh straight season. The most interesting name on their list is Brian Leetch, who has one more year on his contract ($6.4M), which does not include a no-trade clause. Leetch is a career Ranger who'd like to be part of a turnaround in the Big Apple, but Sather should get some interesting calls about the future Hall of Famer, who'd be a great fit alongside his former partner Sergei Zubov in Dallas. Right winger Alexei Kovalev, suffering through an off year, should garner some attention and could benefit from a change of scenery. D-men Tom Poti and Boris Mironov, as well as role-playing forwards Chris Simon and Matthew Barnaby, could help a playoff contender, and there are a few clubs that have expressed an interest in Mark Messier. But does Messier have an interest in leaving New York to make his first playoff appearance since 1997? It would certainly be nice to see No. 11 take one last turn in the postseason.

Phoenix Coyotes
Now that he's moved goalie Sean Burke, GM Mike Barnett can move onto the next deal. He'd probably be willing to part with forwards Brian Savage, Chris Gratton or Mike Sillinger. Believe it or not, the Flyers might have an interest in re-acquiring Gratton because of recent injuries to centers Jeremy Roenick and Keith Primeau. At best, Gratton is a No. 3 center who is more effective in the Eastern Conference because of his size. Sillinger could fit on a team looking for some help in the faceoff circle.

Pittsburgh Penguins
Well, there's not much left in Steeltown. A club seeking some power play help might call about D-man Dick Tarnstrom. After that, veteran forwards Mike Eastwood and Kelly Buchberger could provide depth in different surroundings.

Washington Capitals
After moving Jaromir Jagr to the Rangers in a financially-driven deal on Jan. 23, GM George McPhee said any further dealing will be motivated by a desire to improve the club for the future. McPhee followed up the Jagr deal by trading the franchise's all-time leading scorer, Peter Bondra, to the Senators. But how much Brooks Laich and the 2005 second-round pick will help the team won't be known for a few seasons. Sergei Gonchar and Olaf Kolzig are next on the list of available veterans. Because of the premium on stud defenseman, Gonchar could be the club's most value asset. Gonchar, who is earning $3.65M in the final year of his deal, is healthy after missing three weeks with a shoulder injury. Any club acquiring him would have to qualify him to keep his rights. Also, Gonchar could opt for arbitration. Kolzig's deal, which will pay him $12.75M over the next two seasons, makes him the toughest to move. McPhee also might get calls concerning high-scoring center Robert Lang, as well as forwards Dainius Zubrus, Carter, Jeff Halpern and Mike Grier.

E.J. Hradek covers hockey for ESPN The Magazine. E-mail him at ej.hradek@espnmag.com. Also, click here to send E.J. a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.

[talkingcanes]

well, I could see Sykora and/or Lang as Canes :beatup: I know, I know, we have budget issues :roll: :sad: