Lock Monsters Camp Opens

[nccanes]

This article has a Everblades slant, but talks about Lock Monsters camp:

The Florida Everblades' seventh ECHL season will officially kick off with the start of training camp Oct. 11 at Germain Arena.

Unofficially, however, the majority of the players who will make up the reigning Eastern Conference champion's roster will take to the ice today for a fitness test in Lowell, Mass.

Florida's American Hockey League affiliate, the Lowell Lock Monsters, opened their training camp with team physicals Sunday and will practice for the first time Tuesday morning.

Of the nearly 50 players who will open camp with Lowell, 12 are on two-way contracts with the Lock Monsters and Blades.

The Carolina Hurricanes, Florida and Lowell's NHL affiliate, assigned 16 players to the Lock Monsters' camp. Of those players, goalies Rob Zepp and Craig Kowalski, forward Chad Larose and defensemen Jared Newman and Sean Curry are all on three-way contracts with Florida, Lowell and Carolina, and could end up with the Blades.

Florida general manager Craig Brush estimated that 12-14 players in Lowell's camp could be with the Blades this season due to the NHL lockout.

Lowell is also affiliated with the NHL's Calgary Flames, who assigned 14 players to Lowell's camp. Since both NHL clubs will want their top prospects and NHL players with less than three years of experience playing in the AHL, that leaves little room for players on two- or three-way contracts.

"Players decide who stays up there and who comes down here," said Brush, who will head to Lowell next weekend for the Lock Monsters' first two exhibition games. "They'll prove it on the ice."

Brush said he has made few player personnel moves this offseason because he's counting on a long lockout that would keep many of Carolina and Lowell's prospects with Florida.

The Blades signed only four players to ECHL contracts in the offseason — forwards Keith Anderson, Brandon Coalter and Chris Lee, and defenseman Mark White. Carolina has already assigned defenseman Ed Hill to Florida's training. Hill has played 53 games over the past three seasons for the Blades, but has been plagued by injuries over the last two years.

"Unless something spectacular comes along we'll wait and see what happens there," Brush said.

Blades coach Gerry Fleming arrived in Lowell on Saturday and is eager to see what players he might be bringing back with him to Florida.

"I want to see what kind of shape they're in," Fleming said. "I'll also be meeting some of them for the first time."

The newest of those players will be Matt Hendricks, a forward out of St. Cloud State who Lowell signed to a two-way contract Friday. Hendricks scored 54 goals and 112 points over his 152-game collegiate career. Fleming said he's also looking forward to meeting rookie forwards Dave Lundbohm (124 points in 154 career games at North Dakota) and Steve Saviano (117 points in 139 games at New Hampshire), who are also on two-way deals.

Both of Florida's goalies will come from Lowell, with Zepp and Kowalski, who was signed out of Northern Michigan, the top two candidates. Both Carolina and Calgary have sent their top goalie prospects, Cam Ward and Brent Krahn, respectively, to the Lock Monsters.

"I just go out there and not think about it," Zepp said of where he might end up this season. "I'll do my best, that's all I can focus on."

Although excited about the start of the season, Zepp said the NHL lockout changed some things as camp starts.

"It doesn't quite have the feel of an NHL camp," said Zepp, who attended Carolina's training camp the last three seasons. "It doesn't quite have the feel of an AHL camp either."

Zepp is one of the players who spent time with both Florida and Lowell last season, like Larose and forward Damian Surma, who might lose out on an AHL spot because of all the NHL players who have been sent there. But if the NHL does come back this season, Lowell tried to cover itself by signing so many players to two-way deals that they can fill their loses with Blades players.

"That's what we did as an organization," Fleming said. "We understand the NHL is not gonna play, but if they do play we have to have depth."

Two-way

Players on two-way contracts with Florida and Lowell in the Lock Monsters' camp

Pos. Name Ht. Wt.

D Brian Sullivan 6-2 190

F Dave Lundbohm 6-0 180

F Greg Hornby 5-11 220

F Steve Saviano 5-7 165

F Brad Church 6-1 210

D Matt Pagnutti 6-0 190

D Ryan Brindley 6-0 205

F Brent McDonald 5-11 185

F Damian Surma 5-10 205

F Matt Hendricks 6-0 205

F Tom Reimann 5-10 185

D Tim O'Connell 6-4 210

Three-way


Players under contract with the Carolina Hurricanes in the Lock Monsters' camp who could end up with Florida

G Rob Zepp 6-1 198

G Craig Kowalski 5-8 190

D Jared Newman 6-2 202

D Sean Curry 6-5 220

F Chad Larose 5-9 175

Lowell is also affiliated with the NHL's Calgary Flames, who assigned 14 players to Lowell's camp. Since both NHL clubs will want their top prospects and NHL players with less than three years of experience playing in the AHL, that leaves little room for players on two- or three-way contracts.

"Players decide who stays up there and who comes down here," said Brush, who will head to Lowell next weekend for the Lock Monsters' first two exhibition games. "They'll prove it on the ice."

Brush said he has made few player personnel moves this offseason because he's counting on a long lockout that would keep many of Carolina and Lowell's prospects with Florida.

The Blades signed only four players to ECHL contracts in the offseason — forwards Keith Anderson, Brandon Coalter and Chris Lee, and defenseman Mark White. Carolina has already assigned defenseman Ed Hill to Florida's training. Hill has played 53 games over the past three seasons for the Blades, but has been plagued by injuries over the last two years.

"Unless something spectacular comes along we'll wait and see what happens there," Brush said.

Blades coach Gerry Fleming arrived in Lowell on Saturday and is eager to see what players he might be bringing back with him to Florida.

"I want to see what kind of shape they're in," Fleming said. "I'll also be meeting some of them for the first time."

The newest of those players will be Matt Hendricks, a forward out of St. Cloud State who Lowell signed to a two-way contract Friday. Hendricks scored 54 goals and 112 points over his 152-game collegiate career. Fleming said he's also looking forward to meeting rookie forwards Dave Lundbohm (124 points in 154 career games at North Dakota) and Steve Saviano (117 points in 139 games at New Hampshire), who are also on two-way deals.

Both of Florida's goalies will come from Lowell, with Zepp and Kowalski, who was signed out of Northern Michigan, the top two candidates. Both Carolina and Calgary have sent their top goalie prospects, Cam Ward and Brent Krahn, respectively, to the Lock Monsters.

"I just go out there and not think about it," Zepp said of where he might end up this season. "I'll do my best, that's all I can focus on."

Although excited about the start of the season, Zepp said the NHL lockout changed some things as camp starts.

"It doesn't quite have the feel of an NHL camp," said Zepp, who attended Carolina's training camp the last three seasons. "It doesn't quite have the feel of an AHL camp either."

Zepp is one of the players who spent time with both Florida and Lowell last season, like Larose and forward Damian Surma, who might lose out on an AHL spot because of all the NHL players who have been sent there. But if the NHL does come back this season, Lowell tried to cover itself by signing so many players to two-way deals that they can fill their loses with Blades players.

"That's what we did as an organization," Fleming said. "We understand the NHL is not gonna play, but if they do play we have to have depth."

[nccanes]

This article has a Everblades slant, but talks about Lock Monsters camp:

The Florida Everblades' seventh ECHL season will officially kick off with the start of training camp Oct. 11 at Germain Arena.

Unofficially, however, the majority of the players who will make up the reigning Eastern Conference champion's roster will take to the ice today for a fitness test in Lowell, Mass.

Florida's American Hockey League affiliate, the Lowell Lock Monsters, opened their training camp with team physicals Sunday and will practice for the first time Tuesday morning.

Of the nearly 50 players who will open camp with Lowell, 12 are on two-way contracts with the Lock Monsters and Blades.

The Carolina Hurricanes, Florida and Lowell's NHL affiliate, assigned 16 players to the Lock Monsters' camp. Of those players, goalies Rob Zepp and Craig Kowalski, forward Chad Larose and defensemen Jared Newman and Sean Curry are all on three-way contracts with Florida, Lowell and Carolina, and could end up with the Blades.

Florida general manager Craig Brush estimated that 12-14 players in Lowell's camp could be with the Blades this season due to the NHL lockout.

Lowell is also affiliated with the NHL's Calgary Flames, who assigned 14 players to Lowell's camp. Since both NHL clubs will want their top prospects and NHL players with less than three years of experience playing in the AHL, that leaves little room for players on two- or three-way contracts.

"Players decide who stays up there and who comes down here," said Brush, who will head to Lowell next weekend for the Lock Monsters' first two exhibition games. "They'll prove it on the ice."

Brush said he has made few player personnel moves this offseason because he's counting on a long lockout that would keep many of Carolina and Lowell's prospects with Florida.

The Blades signed only four players to ECHL contracts in the offseason — forwards Keith Anderson, Brandon Coalter and Chris Lee, and defenseman Mark White. Carolina has already assigned defenseman Ed Hill to Florida's training. Hill has played 53 games over the past three seasons for the Blades, but has been plagued by injuries over the last two years.

"Unless something spectacular comes along we'll wait and see what happens there," Brush said.

Blades coach Gerry Fleming arrived in Lowell on Saturday and is eager to see what players he might be bringing back with him to Florida.

"I want to see what kind of shape they're in," Fleming said. "I'll also be meeting some of them for the first time."

The newest of those players will be Matt Hendricks, a forward out of St. Cloud State who Lowell signed to a two-way contract Friday. Hendricks scored 54 goals and 112 points over his 152-game collegiate career. Fleming said he's also looking forward to meeting rookie forwards Dave Lundbohm (124 points in 154 career games at North Dakota) and Steve Saviano (117 points in 139 games at New Hampshire), who are also on two-way deals.

Both of Florida's goalies will come from Lowell, with Zepp and Kowalski, who was signed out of Northern Michigan, the top two candidates. Both Carolina and Calgary have sent their top goalie prospects, Cam Ward and Brent Krahn, respectively, to the Lock Monsters.

"I just go out there and not think about it," Zepp said of where he might end up this season. "I'll do my best, that's all I can focus on."

Although excited about the start of the season, Zepp said the NHL lockout changed some things as camp starts.

"It doesn't quite have the feel of an NHL camp," said Zepp, who attended Carolina's training camp the last three seasons. "It doesn't quite have the feel of an AHL camp either."

Zepp is one of the players who spent time with both Florida and Lowell last season, like Larose and forward Damian Surma, who might lose out on an AHL spot because of all the NHL players who have been sent there. But if the NHL does come back this season, Lowell tried to cover itself by signing so many players to two-way deals that they can fill their loses with Blades players.

"That's what we did as an organization," Fleming said. "We understand the NHL is not gonna play, but if they do play we have to have depth."

Two-way

Players on two-way contracts with Florida and Lowell in the Lock Monsters' camp

Pos. Name Ht. Wt.

D Brian Sullivan 6-2 190

F Dave Lundbohm 6-0 180

F Greg Hornby 5-11 220

F Steve Saviano 5-7 165

F Brad Church 6-1 210

D Matt Pagnutti 6-0 190

D Ryan Brindley 6-0 205

F Brent McDonald 5-11 185

F Damian Surma 5-10 205

F Matt Hendricks 6-0 205

F Tom Reimann 5-10 185

D Tim O'Connell 6-4 210

Three-way


Players under contract with the Carolina Hurricanes in the Lock Monsters' camp who could end up with Florida

G Rob Zepp 6-1 198

G Craig Kowalski 5-8 190

D Jared Newman 6-2 202

D Sean Curry 6-5 220

F Chad Larose 5-9 175

Lowell is also affiliated with the NHL's Calgary Flames, who assigned 14 players to Lowell's camp. Since both NHL clubs will want their top prospects and NHL players with less than three years of experience playing in the AHL, that leaves little room for players on two- or three-way contracts.

"Players decide who stays up there and who comes down here," said Brush, who will head to Lowell next weekend for the Lock Monsters' first two exhibition games. "They'll prove it on the ice."

Brush said he has made few player personnel moves this offseason because he's counting on a long lockout that would keep many of Carolina and Lowell's prospects with Florida.

The Blades signed only four players to ECHL contracts in the offseason — forwards Keith Anderson, Brandon Coalter and Chris Lee, and defenseman Mark White. Carolina has already assigned defenseman Ed Hill to Florida's training. Hill has played 53 games over the past three seasons for the Blades, but has been plagued by injuries over the last two years.

"Unless something spectacular comes along we'll wait and see what happens there," Brush said.

Blades coach Gerry Fleming arrived in Lowell on Saturday and is eager to see what players he might be bringing back with him to Florida.

"I want to see what kind of shape they're in," Fleming said. "I'll also be meeting some of them for the first time."

The newest of those players will be Matt Hendricks, a forward out of St. Cloud State who Lowell signed to a two-way contract Friday. Hendricks scored 54 goals and 112 points over his 152-game collegiate career. Fleming said he's also looking forward to meeting rookie forwards Dave Lundbohm (124 points in 154 career games at North Dakota) and Steve Saviano (117 points in 139 games at New Hampshire), who are also on two-way deals.

Both of Florida's goalies will come from Lowell, with Zepp and Kowalski, who was signed out of Northern Michigan, the top two candidates. Both Carolina and Calgary have sent their top goalie prospects, Cam Ward and Brent Krahn, respectively, to the Lock Monsters.

"I just go out there and not think about it," Zepp said of where he might end up this season. "I'll do my best, that's all I can focus on."

Although excited about the start of the season, Zepp said the NHL lockout changed some things as camp starts.

"It doesn't quite have the feel of an NHL camp," said Zepp, who attended Carolina's training camp the last three seasons. "It doesn't quite have the feel of an AHL camp either."

Zepp is one of the players who spent time with both Florida and Lowell last season, like Larose and forward Damian Surma, who might lose out on an AHL spot because of all the NHL players who have been sent there. But if the NHL does come back this season, Lowell tried to cover itself by signing so many players to two-way deals that they can fill their loses with Blades players.

"That's what we did as an organization," Fleming said. "We understand the NHL is not gonna play, but if they do play we have to have depth."

[Anonymous]

Has anyone tried to go to the Lock Monster's website? Apparently, it's under 'construction' or something, the old site is gone.... I was just on it on Saturday, soooooooo who knows what the heck happened. Fine time to be revamping a site eh?

I was searching the Lowell (Sun) newspapers, not a peep about training camp or anything else since 9/16. I guess they really care up there......

So anyone else catch any Junior Hockey webcasts over the weekend? I had the Calgary Hitmen (our guy A. Ladd is apparently on a tear, hitting everyone in sight, scoring and assisting. He's got the "A" on as well) and Red Deer Rebels (Dion Phenuf is going to be scary when he does get his NHL chance) on Friday night and then yesterday afternoon they played at 4:30 EST. I also caught a the Peterborough Petes (Rookie Jordan Staal, age 16) vs. the Owen Sound and lost on Thursday night, then the Petes played Oshawa on Friday night and lost in OT 3-2- this Staal (Jordan) is gonna be good- Marc Staal plays for Sudbury Wolves- I haven't caught any of those games yet. Good thing about Junior hockey, most every team has some sort of streaming broadcast...................
I guess we'll get our hockey fixes somehow....

[Anonymous]

Has anyone tried to go to the Lock Monster's website? Apparently, it's under 'construction' or something, the old site is gone.... I was just on it on Saturday, soooooooo who knows what the heck happened. Fine time to be revamping a site eh?

I was searching the Lowell (Sun) newspapers, not a peep about training camp or anything else since 9/16. I guess they really care up there......

So anyone else catch any Junior Hockey webcasts over the weekend? I had the Calgary Hitmen (our guy A. Ladd is apparently on a tear, hitting everyone in sight, scoring and assisting. He's got the "A" on as well) and Red Deer Rebels (Dion Phenuf is going to be scary when he does get his NHL chance) on Friday night and then yesterday afternoon they played at 4:30 EST. I also caught a the Peterborough Petes (Rookie Jordan Staal, age 16) vs. the Owen Sound and lost on Thursday night, then the Petes played Oshawa on Friday night and lost in OT 3-2- this Staal (Jordan) is gonna be good- Marc Staal plays for Sudbury Wolves- I haven't caught any of those games yet. Good thing about Junior hockey, most every team has some sort of streaming broadcast...................
I guess we'll get our hockey fixes somehow....

[puck_it]

im assuming streaming audio? or can we actually get streaming vid

[puck_it]

im assuming streaming audio? or can we actually get streaming vid

[guinevere]

Has anyone tried to go to the Lock Monster's website? Apparently, it's under 'construction' or something, the old site is gone....

The new and improved site is up...

http://www.lockmonsters.com/

[guinevere]

Has anyone tried to go to the Lock Monster's website? Apparently, it's under 'construction' or something, the old site is gone....

The new and improved site is up...

http://www.lockmonsters.com/

[Anonymous]

Great, thanks! That was fast.....

Puck it- streaming audio, not video if you're asking about the Junior Hockey webcasts.....

[Anonymous]

Great, thanks! That was fast.....

Puck it- streaming audio, not video if you're asking about the Junior Hockey webcasts.....

[NHLCanes]

Article from Lowell Sun, Sept. 27:

Some Monster Additions
http://www.lowellsun.com/Stories/0,1413,105~4767~2430230,00.html

By BARRY SCANLON, Sun Staff
LOWELL Forty-six players are in camp.
But most eyes will be on one 19-year-old Eric Staal, one of the top young players in the world when the Lowell Lock Monsters open their training camp in preparation for the 2004-05 season tomorrow at Tsongas Arena.

The No. 2 overall pick in the 2003 pick, Staal scored 11 goals and added 20 assists during his rookie season in the National Hockey League with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Ordinarily, the Ontario native would never play a minute in the minor leagues. But these are not ordinary times in hockey. With the NHL players locked out, budding stars like Staal are flocking to the American Hockey League.

"He's going to be a big part of our offense and power play," first-year Lock Monsters head coach Tom Rowe said of Staal, who has the size and skill to develop into a Joe Thornton-like player.

Staal, the cousin of former Lock Monsters standout Jeff Heerema, figures to provide plenty of excitement in Tsongas Arena this winter.

Players underwent physicals today. Tomorrow, two practices are scheduled at Tsongas. Group A will practice from 10-11:30 a.m., with Group B to follow from 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Also in camp:

Forward Mike Zigomanis, Lowell's all-time leading scorer.

Forward Ryan Bayda, one of Lowell's top players the last two winters when he wasn't with Carolina.

Forward Chuck Kobasew, a former Boston College star who scored 17 points for the Calgary Flames last season.

Forward Colin Forbes, 28-year-old power forward (6-3, 220 pounds) and veteran of 302 NHL games who has played with the Flyers, Lightning, Senators, Rangers and Capitals.

Forward Steve Saviano, a Hobey Baker finalist out of the University of New Hampshire. The Reading native signed with Carolina as a free agent following a 117-point UNH career.

Defenseman Danny Richmond, a former University of Michigan catalyst with strong offensive skills. Last season he had 13 goals with London of the Ontario Hockey League.

Defenseman Brad Fast, Lowell's most offensive-minded and consistent blue liner from a season ago.

Goaltender Brent Krahn, the ninth overall pick in the 2000 draft by Calgary. He impressed during a half-dozen games with the Lock Monsters last season.

Goaltender Cam Ward, the netminding future of Carolina. The 25th overall pick in the 2002 draft led Red Deer of the Western Hockey League to 101 victories the past three years.

Rowe said he's hopeful Calgary prized prospect Matt Lombardi, who scored 29 points in 79 games with the Flames last season, will be available early in the season. Lombardi is recovering from a concussion.

"I don't think the (AHL) has ever been so skilled," Rowe said. "Everybody is loaded. There's a lot of good players."

[NHLCanes]

Article from Lowell Sun, Sept. 27:

Some Monster Additions
http://www.lowellsun.com/Stories/0,1413,105~4767~2430230,00.html

By BARRY SCANLON, Sun Staff
LOWELL Forty-six players are in camp.
But most eyes will be on one 19-year-old Eric Staal, one of the top young players in the world when the Lowell Lock Monsters open their training camp in preparation for the 2004-05 season tomorrow at Tsongas Arena.

The No. 2 overall pick in the 2003 pick, Staal scored 11 goals and added 20 assists during his rookie season in the National Hockey League with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Ordinarily, the Ontario native would never play a minute in the minor leagues. But these are not ordinary times in hockey. With the NHL players locked out, budding stars like Staal are flocking to the American Hockey League.

"He's going to be a big part of our offense and power play," first-year Lock Monsters head coach Tom Rowe said of Staal, who has the size and skill to develop into a Joe Thornton-like player.

Staal, the cousin of former Lock Monsters standout Jeff Heerema, figures to provide plenty of excitement in Tsongas Arena this winter.

Players underwent physicals today. Tomorrow, two practices are scheduled at Tsongas. Group A will practice from 10-11:30 a.m., with Group B to follow from 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Also in camp:

Forward Mike Zigomanis, Lowell's all-time leading scorer.

Forward Ryan Bayda, one of Lowell's top players the last two winters when he wasn't with Carolina.

Forward Chuck Kobasew, a former Boston College star who scored 17 points for the Calgary Flames last season.

Forward Colin Forbes, 28-year-old power forward (6-3, 220 pounds) and veteran of 302 NHL games who has played with the Flyers, Lightning, Senators, Rangers and Capitals.

Forward Steve Saviano, a Hobey Baker finalist out of the University of New Hampshire. The Reading native signed with Carolina as a free agent following a 117-point UNH career.

Defenseman Danny Richmond, a former University of Michigan catalyst with strong offensive skills. Last season he had 13 goals with London of the Ontario Hockey League.

Defenseman Brad Fast, Lowell's most offensive-minded and consistent blue liner from a season ago.

Goaltender Brent Krahn, the ninth overall pick in the 2000 draft by Calgary. He impressed during a half-dozen games with the Lock Monsters last season.

Goaltender Cam Ward, the netminding future of Carolina. The 25th overall pick in the 2002 draft led Red Deer of the Western Hockey League to 101 victories the past three years.

Rowe said he's hopeful Calgary prized prospect Matt Lombardi, who scored 29 points in 79 games with the Flames last season, will be available early in the season. Lombardi is recovering from a concussion.

"I don't think the (AHL) has ever been so skilled," Rowe said. "Everybody is loaded. There's a lot of good players."

[nccanes]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:

September 27, 2004
Craig MacDonald Assigned to Lowell
Lowell Lock Monsters Media Release

Lowell, MA - The Lowell Lock Monsters announced today that center Craig MacDonald has been assigned to Lowell from the Calgary Flames.

MacDonald (6'2", 185 lbs) registered six assists in 52 NHL games last season with the Florida Panthers and the Boston Bruins. A veteran of 110 NHL games, MacDonald played for the Carolina Hurricanes during the 1998-99, 2001-02 and 2002-03 campaigns. The left wing has 12 career NHL points (2g, 10a) and 53 minutes in penalties.

The Antigonish, NS native captained the 2001-02 Lock Monsters, where he posted 41 points (19g, 22a) in 64 games. He has accumulated 116 points (43g, 73a) and 120 minutes in penalties through 155 AHL games with New Haven, Lowell and San Antonio. He currently ranks 10th among the Lock Monsters all time point leaders (68 pts).

The Lock Monsters exhibition season kicks off this weekend as they travel to Marlborough on Saturday, October 2nd to take on the Worcester IceCats. The two teams will face off again at Hallenborg Arena in Billerica, MA on Sunday, October 3rd at 4:00 pm.

[nccanes]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:

September 27, 2004
Craig MacDonald Assigned to Lowell
Lowell Lock Monsters Media Release

Lowell, MA - The Lowell Lock Monsters announced today that center Craig MacDonald has been assigned to Lowell from the Calgary Flames.

MacDonald (6'2", 185 lbs) registered six assists in 52 NHL games last season with the Florida Panthers and the Boston Bruins. A veteran of 110 NHL games, MacDonald played for the Carolina Hurricanes during the 1998-99, 2001-02 and 2002-03 campaigns. The left wing has 12 career NHL points (2g, 10a) and 53 minutes in penalties.

The Antigonish, NS native captained the 2001-02 Lock Monsters, where he posted 41 points (19g, 22a) in 64 games. He has accumulated 116 points (43g, 73a) and 120 minutes in penalties through 155 AHL games with New Haven, Lowell and San Antonio. He currently ranks 10th among the Lock Monsters all time point leaders (68 pts).

The Lock Monsters exhibition season kicks off this weekend as they travel to Marlborough on Saturday, October 2nd to take on the Worcester IceCats. The two teams will face off again at Hallenborg Arena in Billerica, MA on Sunday, October 3rd at 4:00 pm.

[Mona]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



The guys say thank goodness.. now we can get a ride to Burger King.. :lol:

[Mona]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



The guys say thank goodness.. now we can get a ride to Burger King.. :lol:

[Captain Slack]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



The guys say thank goodness.. now we can get a ride to Burger King.. :lol:

Wonder if he'll be Captain again?

[Captain Slack]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



The guys say thank goodness.. now we can get a ride to Burger King.. :lol:

Wonder if he'll be Captain again?

[guinevere]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D

[guinevere]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D

[nccanes]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D


There's another CMac joke floating around out there. I'm sure you'll work it in at some appropriate point! :D

[nccanes]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D


There's another CMac joke floating around out there. I'm sure you'll work it in at some appropriate point! :D

[SoCalcaniac]

Well, at least stuff is going on in Lowell- the Lock Monsters have some studs on this team right now all thanks to the lovely lockout...... Did everyone go out and order Staal Lock Monsters jerseys (LOL)- I got an email from the company we ordered from and they indicated that there has been a 'crush' of orders and mine would be delayed by 2 weeks... argh.... :mad:

Lock Monsters jersey or not, I still have my Canes gear, so I'm ready for my roadtrips....... :spin:

[SoCalcaniac]

Well, at least stuff is going on in Lowell- the Lock Monsters have some studs on this team right now all thanks to the lovely lockout...... Did everyone go out and order Staal Lock Monsters jerseys (LOL)- I got an email from the company we ordered from and they indicated that there has been a 'crush' of orders and mine would be delayed by 2 weeks... argh.... :mad:

Lock Monsters jersey or not, I still have my Canes gear, so I'm ready for my roadtrips....... :spin:

[guinevere]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D


There's another CMac joke floating around out there. I'm sure you'll work it in at some appropriate point! :D

On the bright side, now they will know when to stop practice - with that famous CMac "Stop, drop, and spew" drill? (Something like that E?)

How did he end up in Calgary anyway?

[guinevere]

Looks who is coming to Lock Monsters camp.....

Wonder if he'll be driving the minivan again. :evil:



Stinker - you took the keys right out of my hand. :D


There's another CMac joke floating around out there. I'm sure you'll work it in at some appropriate point! :D

On the bright side, now they will know when to stop practice - with that famous CMac "Stop, drop, and spew" drill? (Something like that E?)

How did he end up in Calgary anyway?

[nccanes]

On the bright side, now they will know when to stop practice - with that famous CMac "Stop, drop, and spew" drill? (Something like that E?)



:laugh: :laugh: Exactly!


How did he end up in Calgary anyway?

Well the obvious answer would be via minivan....

I have no idea though. I think a South Florida to Calgary drive would be exhausting. ;)

[nccanes]

On the bright side, now they will know when to stop practice - with that famous CMac "Stop, drop, and spew" drill? (Something like that E?)



:laugh: :laugh: Exactly!


How did he end up in Calgary anyway?

Well the obvious answer would be via minivan....

I have no idea though. I think a South Florida to Calgary drive would be exhausting. ;)

[e2ipiand1]

Craig was claimed off of waivers by Boston from Florida late last season.
Calgary then signed him as an UFA (group III)

[e2ipiand1]

Craig was claimed off of waivers by Boston from Florida late last season.
Calgary then signed him as an UFA (group III)

[guinevere]

Craig was claimed off of waivers by Boston from Florida late last season.
Calgary then signed him as an UFA (group III)

Thank you so very much - My CMac Tracking system has been down because of the hurricanes. :beatup:

[guinevere]

Craig was claimed off of waivers by Boston from Florida late last season.
Calgary then signed him as an UFA (group III)

Thank you so very much - My CMac Tracking system has been down because of the hurricanes. :beatup:

[nccanes]

Neat story. I don't recall the Saviano signing. Did he sign a Canes contract or Lowell contract?

College star tries to fit in on first day of camp

By BARRY SCANLON, Sun Staff
LOWELL The kid who turned heads during a terrific four-year career at the University of New Hampshire had his turned prior to his first official day as a professional hockey player..

Steve Saviano, a Reading native and last season's Hockey East Player of the Year, figured his first practice with the Lowell Lock Monsters would be memorable.

He just didn't know it would be this memorable.

Saviano learned when camp opened he was being paired on a line with Ryan Bayda, Lowell's 11th all-time leading scorer, and Eric Staal, the second overall pick in the 2003 NHL draft who scored 31 points as a 18-year-old Carolina Hurricanes rookie last season.

The Group A practice yesterday lasted 90 minutes at Tsongas Arena Saviano's smile lasted considerably longer.

"I was just trying to stay out of their way," Saviano said. "Those are probably two of the best players in the (AHL). They're just, obviously, great players. It was kind of an honor just to be paired up with them in practice."

Bayda and Staal are locks with the NHL players locked out to be in Lowell's opening night roster. Saviano is not.

Despite a 117-point career at UNH, Saviano stands just 5-foot-7 and weighs 165. Saviano's skating speed and tenacious nature may not be enough against seasoned NHL/AHL defensemen, many whom easily carry 220 pounds.

"I have to get confidence again," he said. "You're not here if you're not a good player."

Saviano admitted the jump from Reading High where he teamed with another Wildcat, Sean Collins, to give nightmares to Middlesex League goaltenders to UNH was a difficult one. He started his college career slowly, scoring just two points as a freshman and 27 points as a sophomore.

But he caught fire his final two seasons in Durham, especially last winter, when he exploded for 27 goals and 49 points, before signing with Carolina as a free agent.

As a junior, he scored two goals Frozen Four semifinal upset of Cornell, putting UNH into the national championship game against Minnesota. Saviano and the Wildcats fell in the title contest, but the 23-year-old speedster shook off the sting of that loss and made his final college season his best.

Saviano, who was good-naturedly razzed by teammates when a New Hampshire television crew requested a post-practice interview, said two of his former UNH teammates who have played in the AHL, Darren Haydar and Colin Hemingway, told him to just keep playing his game.

The battle for Lowell's final three or four forwards spots is expected to be fierce and there are no guarantees for Saviano.

Lowell head coach Tom Rowe said there's a lot to like about Saviano, despite his size limitations.

"He's got a real good skill level," Rowe said. "We're going to see what he can do. He sees to work real hard and I figured it would be good to put him with Staal and Bayda. I know he has a bulldog mentality."

[nccanes]

Neat story. I don't recall the Saviano signing. Did he sign a Canes contract or Lowell contract?

College star tries to fit in on first day of camp

By BARRY SCANLON, Sun Staff
LOWELL The kid who turned heads during a terrific four-year career at the University of New Hampshire had his turned prior to his first official day as a professional hockey player..

Steve Saviano, a Reading native and last season's Hockey East Player of the Year, figured his first practice with the Lowell Lock Monsters would be memorable.

He just didn't know it would be this memorable.

Saviano learned when camp opened he was being paired on a line with Ryan Bayda, Lowell's 11th all-time leading scorer, and Eric Staal, the second overall pick in the 2003 NHL draft who scored 31 points as a 18-year-old Carolina Hurricanes rookie last season.

The Group A practice yesterday lasted 90 minutes at Tsongas Arena Saviano's smile lasted considerably longer.

"I was just trying to stay out of their way," Saviano said. "Those are probably two of the best players in the (AHL). They're just, obviously, great players. It was kind of an honor just to be paired up with them in practice."

Bayda and Staal are locks with the NHL players locked out to be in Lowell's opening night roster. Saviano is not.

Despite a 117-point career at UNH, Saviano stands just 5-foot-7 and weighs 165. Saviano's skating speed and tenacious nature may not be enough against seasoned NHL/AHL defensemen, many whom easily carry 220 pounds.

"I have to get confidence again," he said. "You're not here if you're not a good player."

Saviano admitted the jump from Reading High where he teamed with another Wildcat, Sean Collins, to give nightmares to Middlesex League goaltenders to UNH was a difficult one. He started his college career slowly, scoring just two points as a freshman and 27 points as a sophomore.

But he caught fire his final two seasons in Durham, especially last winter, when he exploded for 27 goals and 49 points, before signing with Carolina as a free agent.

As a junior, he scored two goals Frozen Four semifinal upset of Cornell, putting UNH into the national championship game against Minnesota. Saviano and the Wildcats fell in the title contest, but the 23-year-old speedster shook off the sting of that loss and made his final college season his best.

Saviano, who was good-naturedly razzed by teammates when a New Hampshire television crew requested a post-practice interview, said two of his former UNH teammates who have played in the AHL, Darren Haydar and Colin Hemingway, told him to just keep playing his game.

The battle for Lowell's final three or four forwards spots is expected to be fierce and there are no guarantees for Saviano.

Lowell head coach Tom Rowe said there's a lot to like about Saviano, despite his size limitations.

"He's got a real good skill level," Rowe said. "We're going to see what he can do. He sees to work real hard and I figured it would be good to put him with Staal and Bayda. I know he has a bulldog mentality."

[SoCalcaniac]

I don't recall the Saviano signing. Did he sign a Canes contract or Lowell contract?

I believe it's a free agent try out E- I believe I read it on the 'old' Lowell site or maybe it was in one of the New England papers- I've read so many articles I get confused :eek2: LOL.

Neat story on this kid. Staal and Bayda, not bad eh.... ?

[SoCalcaniac]

I don't recall the Saviano signing. Did he sign a Canes contract or Lowell contract?

I believe it's a free agent try out E- I believe I read it on the 'old' Lowell site or maybe it was in one of the New England papers- I've read so many articles I get confused :eek2: LOL.

Neat story on this kid. Staal and Bayda, not bad eh.... ?

[nccanes]

Lock Monsters Assign 14

10.04.2004
Lowell, MA – The Lock Monsters announced today that they have assigned fourteen players to East Coast Hockey League affiliates in Florida and Las Vegas. The following players have been assigned to the Florida Everblades: Craig Kowalski, Damian Surma, Matt Hendricks, Tom Reimann, Dan Sullivan, Brad Church and Greg Hornby. The following players have been assigned to the Las Vegas Wranglers: Sebastien Centomo, Patrik Nilson, Chris Stanley, Adam Huxley, Regan Darby, Darren Lynch and Dan Tudin. The Lock Monsters exhibition season continues with a pre-season game against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers on Wednesday, October 6th at the Rinks at Shelton, CT. Lowell will host the Manchester Monarchs this Friday night at Conway Arena in Nashua, NH at 7:00 pm. The two teams will face off again on Saturday night at 7:35 at the Salem IceCenter. Tickets for the exhibition games are on sale at the Lock Monsters ticket office at (978) 458-7825.

[nccanes]

Lock Monsters Assign 14

10.04.2004
Lowell, MA – The Lock Monsters announced today that they have assigned fourteen players to East Coast Hockey League affiliates in Florida and Las Vegas. The following players have been assigned to the Florida Everblades: Craig Kowalski, Damian Surma, Matt Hendricks, Tom Reimann, Dan Sullivan, Brad Church and Greg Hornby. The following players have been assigned to the Las Vegas Wranglers: Sebastien Centomo, Patrik Nilson, Chris Stanley, Adam Huxley, Regan Darby, Darren Lynch and Dan Tudin. The Lock Monsters exhibition season continues with a pre-season game against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers on Wednesday, October 6th at the Rinks at Shelton, CT. Lowell will host the Manchester Monarchs this Friday night at Conway Arena in Nashua, NH at 7:00 pm. The two teams will face off again on Saturday night at 7:35 at the Salem IceCenter. Tickets for the exhibition games are on sale at the Lock Monsters ticket office at (978) 458-7825.

[LLM639]

CMac hasn't skated in a preseason game yet so I think all bets may be off as far as wearing the C. He was a good captain in the past. Ironically, Curry has been wearing the A with some preseason games, it may not be unreasonable to see him wearing it (or rotating it) come opening night. Zepp has not played a preseason game either. Ziggy supposedly is nursing a back injury and did not look good in sunday's preseason game.

Saviano is a speedster and super tough. He has been playing with Staal and Bayda, running rings around them. At 5'7" he body checked a 6'5" goon into the boards during a preseason game. The kid has cahones and skill. He will be fun to watch. He was the Hockey East Player of the Year for a reason.

Ward played part of one preseason game (super quick feet) and performed well.

It will be interesting to see in a week what shakes out.

BTW, if you guys want good monster coverage check out the Lawrence Eagle Tribune online, they have always done a better job of covering the monsters than the Lowell Sun. Don't even bother with the Boston papers.

[LLM639]

CMac hasn't skated in a preseason game yet so I think all bets may be off as far as wearing the C. He was a good captain in the past. Ironically, Curry has been wearing the A with some preseason games, it may not be unreasonable to see him wearing it (or rotating it) come opening night. Zepp has not played a preseason game either. Ziggy supposedly is nursing a back injury and did not look good in sunday's preseason game.

Saviano is a speedster and super tough. He has been playing with Staal and Bayda, running rings around them. At 5'7" he body checked a 6'5" goon into the boards during a preseason game. The kid has cahones and skill. He will be fun to watch. He was the Hockey East Player of the Year for a reason.

Ward played part of one preseason game (super quick feet) and performed well.

It will be interesting to see in a week what shakes out.

BTW, if you guys want good monster coverage check out the Lawrence Eagle Tribune online, they have always done a better job of covering the monsters than the Lowell Sun. Don't even bother with the Boston papers.

[Captain Slack]

Lock Monsters Assign 5


10.08.2004

Lowell, MA – The Lock Monsters announced today that they have assigned five players to East Coast Hockey League teams in Florida and Texas. Goaltender Rob Zepp, defenseman Jared Newman and forward David Lundbohm have been assigned to the Florida Everblades. Goaltender Davis Parley and right wing Thomas Bellemare have been assigned to the Texas Wildcatters. The Lock Monsters wrap up the exhibition season with a “home and home” series against the Manchester Monarchs with a 7:00 pm contest tonight at the Conway Arena. The two teams meet again Saturday at the Salem IceCenter at 7:30 pm. The Lock Monsters begin their seventh season in the American Hockey League on October 16, 2004. Individual game tickets may be purchased by contacting the Lock Monsters Box Office at (978) 458-7825 or visiting the Tsongas Arena Box Office. The Lock Monsters serve as the top developmental team for the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and Calgary Flames. ####

[Captain Slack]

Lock Monsters Assign 5


10.08.2004

Lowell, MA – The Lock Monsters announced today that they have assigned five players to East Coast Hockey League teams in Florida and Texas. Goaltender Rob Zepp, defenseman Jared Newman and forward David Lundbohm have been assigned to the Florida Everblades. Goaltender Davis Parley and right wing Thomas Bellemare have been assigned to the Texas Wildcatters. The Lock Monsters wrap up the exhibition season with a “home and home” series against the Manchester Monarchs with a 7:00 pm contest tonight at the Conway Arena. The two teams meet again Saturday at the Salem IceCenter at 7:30 pm. The Lock Monsters begin their seventh season in the American Hockey League on October 16, 2004. Individual game tickets may be purchased by contacting the Lock Monsters Box Office at (978) 458-7825 or visiting the Tsongas Arena Box Office. The Lock Monsters serve as the top developmental team for the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and Calgary Flames. ####

[Canesluver]

With all the young'un NHL-ers taking up roster spots at Lowell, it's not surprising that they had to shift guys down to the 'Blades. They'll get to play more too, and be an asset to the 'Blades organization.

[Canesluver]

With all the young'un NHL-ers taking up roster spots at Lowell, it's not surprising that they had to shift guys down to the 'Blades. They'll get to play more too, and be an asset to the 'Blades organization.