2007-08 NHL season wrapup

12:58

Should four Cups in 11 years be considered a dynasty in today's NHL?
Yes

( 80% )

( 20% )

Thursday June 5, 2008 12:58

1:01

James Mirtle:

Well, we might as well get underway. Thanks to everyone for coming out for a postmortem on the 2007-08 season

Matt Fenwick from The Battle of Alberta will be here shortly

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:01 James Mirtle

1:01

Matt:

I'm here... hello everybody.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:01 Matt

1:02

James Mirtle:

Hey Matt, how goes it? Thanks for stopping in

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:02 James Mirtle

1:03

Matt:

You're very welcome, thanks for having me. It's a good day; there's something that feels right when the best team wins.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:03 Matt

1:03

James Mirtle:

I know you talked about the Red Wings all year as the team to beat

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:03 James Mirtle

1:03

James Mirtle:

feel vindicated?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:03 James Mirtle

1:03

Matt:

Hmmm... what do you think? :)

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:03 Matt

1:04

James Mirtle:

I think this is the first year in a long, long time I actually picked the winner at the beginning of the playoffs. There was something about the way Detroit looked this year that was different than past regular seasons

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:04 James Mirtle

1:04

James Mirtle:

The way Chris Osgood played certainly helped

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:04 James Mirtle

1:04

[Comment From PPPPPP: ]

So what did you guys think of Zetterberg getting the Conn Smythe? James, glad to see that your campaign for logic kept Osgood from getting it?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:04 PPP

1:04

Matt:

I'm been mulling this... I'm not sure they're a ton better than last season, but obviously things worked out better.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:04 Matt

1:04

James Mirtle:

me too, PPP

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:04 James Mirtle

1:05

James Mirtle:

yeah, that's part of it. They did make it to the conference finals last year and narrowly lost out to the Ducks

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:05 James Mirtle

1:05

James Mirtle:

it's not a stretch to think a healthy Detroit of '07 would have rolled over Ottawa the way Anaheim did, either

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:05 James Mirtle

1:05

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Detroit is such a model of consistency and they has as good a chance as any to repeat. As far as dynasty goes, I suppose they're as close as the NHL will probably ever get to it

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:05 Borris Jerome

1:06

James Mirtle:

as for the MVP question, I think Zetterberg was the right choice

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:06 James Mirtle

1:06

Matt:

A just result for the CS. I would have been fine with Datsyuk or Lidstrom winning it too, glad it wasn't Osgood. Nothing against him at all, but he's obviously a lot more replaceable than the other 3.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:06 Matt

1:06

James Mirtle:

everyone said he wasn't impressive in the finals, but 27 points overall speaks volumes. That's a big, big number in today's NHL

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:06 James Mirtle

1:07

Matt:

If everyone was saying that, then everyone needs a slap.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 Matt

1:07

James Mirtle:

I talked about this earlier in the week, but 27 points for Crosby and Zetterberg actually marks the 2nd highest point total in the playoff in the past 10 years

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 James Mirtle

1:07

James Mirtle:

wasn't impressive in a goal scoring sense

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 James Mirtle

1:07

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Dr. James, Detroit was just that good but I was surprised to see Pittsburgh only show up in the last 2 minutes. Still what a last 2 minutes. No real question, just want hockey to continue!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 Blackcapricorn

1:07

[Comment From PPPPPP: ]

Was that playoff performance by Zetterberg enough to get him in the best player in the NHL conversation?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 PPP

1:07

Matt:

Yes.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:07 Matt

1:08

James Mirtle:

Yes, finally

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:08 James Mirtle

1:08

Matt:

Though I have a real tough time stating certainly that he's even the best forward on his team.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:08 Matt

1:08

James Mirtle:

Zetterberg's come up in the blogosphere's Selke talk for years now, but sometimes it takes the biggest stage to really showcase a player like that

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:08 James Mirtle

1:08

James Mirtle:

the most impressive thing about Zetterberg might just be his contract

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:08 James Mirtle

1:09

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

when do they actually decide who is getting the conn smythe?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:09 john

1:09

James Mirtle:

they vote in the closing minutes of the deciding game

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:09 James Mirtle

1:09

Matt:

The one area where I WOULD give the nod to Datsyuk is the Selke. Have you ever seen a guy get his stick, body, whatever in the way of more pucks and passes?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:09 Matt

1:09

James Mirtle:

I believe it's the members of the PHWA who are in attendance

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:09 James Mirtle

1:09	Was Zetterberg the right choice as playoff MVP? Yes ( 83% ) No ( 17% ) Thursday June 5, 2008 1:09

1:10

James Mirtle:

and Datsyuk plays more minutes on the PK as well

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:10 James Mirtle

1:10

[Comment From itterrefitterref: ]

Remember the injuries, the Wings didn't have the same defensive personel, they lost key people last year right at the end.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:10 itterref

1:10

James Mirtle:

very true. Kronwall was incredible this year

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:10 James Mirtle

1:11

Matt:

Pavel is just phenomenal. Hell, his $6.7M/year contract is good value too.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:11 Matt

1:11

Matt:

And Kronwall... speaking of good value. Hey, anyone know why his English is so good?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:11 Matt

1:11

James Mirtle:

the Kronwall-Stuart pairing was plus-9 in the finals alone

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:11 James Mirtle

1:11

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Zetterberg and Datsyuk are such complete players. It's too bad that Crosby and Ovechkin eat up so much attention, because really, there are a healthy crop of great younger players in the NHL right now that deserve accolades (and not just for offensive porowess).

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:11 Borris Jerome

1:12

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

datsyuk is also a threat to score almost any time he touches the puck, i would give him a slight edge over zetterberg

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:12 john

1:12

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Do you guys agree with William Houston's analysis in the G&M about NBC being better than CBC? I seriously doubt that is the case but I was wondering if you have any similar impressions of the coverage.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:12 Blackcapricorn

1:12

James Mirtle:

I'll confess I didn't watch a lot of NBC this year

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:12 James Mirtle

1:12

Matt:

I flipped... I actually liked Cole and Millen. Greg Millen has come a long way.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:12 Matt

1:12

James Mirtle:

any opinion on NBC?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:12 James Mirtle

1:13

Matt:

I like Emrick, how can you not. And I like McGuire between the benches... most of the time.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:13 Matt

1:13

James Mirtle:

here's Houston's column for those that missed it

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:13 James Mirtle

1:14

James Mirtle:

I was surprised how rave the reviews were for McGuire

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 James Mirtle

1:14

James Mirtle:

is that a change in style for him?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 James Mirtle

1:14

James Mirtle:

and how long until we see HNIC put someone between the benches?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 James Mirtle

1:14

Matt:

I just think he's better on-the-fly than bloviating in the studio or between periods.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 Matt

1:14

James Mirtle:

btw, there was a great shot of McGuire near the Penguins bench after the game, and he looked as disappointed as anyone

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 James Mirtle

1:14

James Mirtle:

I find bloviating painful sometimes

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 James Mirtle

1:14

Matt:

They shouldn't have traded Colby Armstrong!!!!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:14 Matt

1:15

James Mirtle:

Armstrong was pretty darn good on Sportsnet as an analyst

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:15 James Mirtle

1:15

James Mirtle:

did you see the ratings from last night, Matt? They were pretty solid

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:15 James Mirtle

1:15

James Mirtle:

http://sportsmediawatch.blogspot.com/2008/06/cup-runneth-over.html

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:15 James Mirtle

1:15

Matt:

How about HNiC doing the Final Four, "One Shining Moment"-style thing at the end? Inspired. :)

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:15 Matt

1:16

[Comment From itterrefitterref: ]

Talk about the coaching clinic that Babcock put on, he desrves a ton of credit as well.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:16 itterref

1:16

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

I'll say this for McGuire ... he brings a boatload of energy to the broadcast. As for Millen, I reluctantly agree that he has improved.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:16 Borris Jerome

1:16

[Comment From PPPPPP: ]

Houston is off his rocker. Let's discuss the most important issue of the playoffs: the apparent death of the HNiC theme. Thoughts?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:16 PPP

1:16

Matt:

Babcock was the exact right coach for this roster at this time. I think you could say the same about Carlyle last season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:16 Matt

1:17

James Mirtle:

the HNIC theme song story is going crazy over at The Globe's site today. People do not want to lose it

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:17 James Mirtle

1:17

Matt:

When Babcock is preaching to just keep doing what made you successful, and Lidstrom is demonstrating it, it's not hard to see how the rest of the roster follows along.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:17 Matt

1:17

James Mirtle:

Matt, you talked a lot about Babcock's style in the press; he's a pretty interesting cat, no?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:17 James Mirtle

1:18

James Mirtle:

I was amazed as how serene he stayed through everything

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 James Mirtle

1:18

Matt:

Normalcy, normalcy, normalcy.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 Matt

1:18

James Mirtle:

the confidence behind the bench there was insane

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 James Mirtle

1:18

James Mirtle:

it was almost a "we are the best team, soon you will see" mentality

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 James Mirtle

1:18

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

i can not stand mcguire inside the glass, he never says anything remotely useful. its always about the morale of the two teams. i'm not a huge fan of the NBC coverage

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 john

1:18

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Can't stand Doc and the "battling coaches" thing has to go, the actual game coverage (angles, cameras used) got better that's for sure but it still the redheaded step child to CBC, TSN or god help us Sportsnet

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:18 Blackcapricorn

1:19

Matt:

The stakes are higher in the playoffs, but it's still hockey... why change the things that made you good at it in the first place?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:19 Matt

1:19

James Mirtle:

Have a good poll question I can put up?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:19 James Mirtle

1:19

[Comment From Sean LeahySean Leahy: ]

Anyone else notice Emrick call Jarkko Ruutu "Sidney Crosby" several times throughout the series?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:19 Sean Leahy

1:20

[Comment From Earl SleekEarl Sleek: ]

How much money do you think Hossa earned by his playoff performance this year? Aside from what he would have earned after game 82, that is. And who do you think has the inside shot at signing him?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:20 Earl Sleek

1:20

Matt:

"Do you think there will be a Finals rematch next year?"

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:20 Matt

1:20

James Mirtle:

I think we've all given up on that happening these days

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:20 James Mirtle

1:20

Matt:

Hossa is going to need a dump truck. He was anyway, but maybe he convinced a couple more teams to get in on the bidding.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:20 Matt

1:20	Do you think there will be a finals rematch next year? Yes ( 14% ) No, only Detroit returns ( 51% ) No, only Pittsburgh returns ( 9% ) No, neither make it ( 26% ) Thursday June 5, 2008 1:20

1:21

James Mirtle:

and the thing is, he's the only marquee scorer available

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:21 James Mirtle

1:21

James Mirtle:

he's still in his prime and doesn't get enough credit for how good he is. This is a guy who was traded for Heatley not too long ago

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:21 James Mirtle

1:22

James Mirtle:

I think there'll be nine or 10 teams in the running, and he'll get upwards of $50-million over 7 years. To start

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:22 James Mirtle

1:22

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

So what is the final analysis on "rental players" are they worth it in Hossa's case even though it didn't get the Pens over the final hump?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:22 Blackcapricorn

1:22

Matt:

Pittsburgh will miss him. Not sure if we were saving this for the end, but I voted "No, only Detroit returns" -- I think the Capitals pass the Penguins next season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:22 Matt

1:22

James Mirtle:

a bold pick. I'm not sure the Capitals are ready to super nova just yet

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:22 James Mirtle

1:23

Matt:

Re: the Hossa rental, I think it was a great gamble.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:23 Matt

1:23

James Mirtle:

the thing on Hossa is that the Penguins were going to have a heckuva time holding onto those pieces anyway

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:23 James Mirtle

1:23

James Mirtle:

the East was relatively tight and having a bonafide sniper play with Crosby made the Penguins that much more dangerous

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:23 James Mirtle

1:24

Matt:

Armstrong and Christensen aren't exactly straight out of junior either... the highest value asset that Pitt gave up might be the #29 pick in this draft.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:24 Matt

1:24

[Comment From Duke PhillipsDuke Phillips: ]

Here's what I've always wanted the CBC to do - have an alternate feed with no commentary whatsoever (like they did when the SRC crew went on strike a few years ago). Crank the arena sounds, and put all pertinent information about the game (injuries, stats, etc) on the bottom of the screen like an F1 race. Surely that can't be too hard to pull off?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:24 Duke Phillips

1:24

[Comment From Steve LeporeSteve Lepore: ]

WEDNESDAY’S TOP 10 MARKETS: 1. Pittsburgh, 37.4/51 2. Detroit, 30.6/45 3. Buffalo, 10.9/16 4. Denver, 6.6/11 5. St. Louis, 5.7/9 6. Richmond, 5.6/9 T7. Philadelphia, 5.5/9 T7. Columbus, 5.5/9 T9. Minneapolis, 5.1/10 T9. Fort Myers, 5.1/10

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:24 Steve Lepore

1:24

Matt:

Richmond loves hockey! I knew it!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:24 Matt

1:25

James Mirtle:

apparently there was some sort of a tornado that took Washington off the grid. Japers Rink's J.P. was stuck following Game 6 on his cell phone scoreboard updater

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:25 James Mirtle

1:25

James Mirtle:

some interesting numbers throughout the playoffs for Columbus and Nashville

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:25 James Mirtle

1:25

James Mirtle:

Las Vegas even showed up for a few games

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:25 James Mirtle

1:25

[Comment From Steve LeporeSteve Lepore: ]

NBC did what was best for their audience, CBC did what was best for their audience in my opinion. Emrick>Cole, Olczyk>Millen.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:25 Steve Lepore

1:26

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Will the Pens get back to the finals next year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:26 Blackcapricorn

1:26

James Mirtle:

I think Ray Shero's got his work cut out for him, that's for sure

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:26 James Mirtle

1:26

James Mirtle:

10 UFAs of note, a few big RFA decisions to make

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:26 James Mirtle

1:26

Matt:

Indeed, but he's been good at his job so far.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:26 Matt

1:26

James Mirtle:

they could get into real trouble in a hurry

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:26 James Mirtle

1:27

[Comment From NHL DigestNHL Digest: ]

I want hossa in Montreal...probably not going to happen though

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:27 NHL Digest

1:27

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

It will be interesting to see what the Penguins lineup looks like come October

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:27 Borris Jerome

1:27

Matt:

With Crosby and Malkin, they'll be good almost no matter what... the question is, how good.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:27 Matt

1:27

[Comment From Steve LeporeSteve Lepore: ]

I don't think Hossa's playoff performance mattered, as long as he didn't pull a Malkin. He'll get 8 Mill somewhere next year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:27 Steve Lepore

1:27

James Mirtle:

some big losses though - say they lose Hossa, Malone and Orpik - how do you replace those?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:27 James Mirtle

1:28

James Mirtle:

You think they should keep Malkin, Staal and Fleury, Matt?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:28 James Mirtle

1:28

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

I could see it happening, a rematch that is, wouldn't bet on it though. It will be interesting to see what happens in Pitt.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:28 Johnfronts

1:28

[Comment From WyshynskiWyshynski: ]

Have either of you guys seen a pair of black and gold pom-poms? Pierre McGuire dropped them during postgame interviews and lost-and-found at Mellon doesn't have them, either.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:28 Wyshynski

1:28

James Mirtle:

I've always thought "Wyshynski" sounds sort of like a sneeze

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:28 James Mirtle

1:28

Matt:

They'll have to forget about Hossa. They have to keep Malkin. With Staal and Fleury, a lot depends on their price.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:28 Matt

1:29

James Mirtle:

oh my... we're getting buried under comments here

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 James Mirtle

1:29

James Mirtle:

I think Staal/Fleury's price on a long-term deal is at least $5-mil

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 James Mirtle

1:29

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

im rooting for boston to break the bank to bring hossa in

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 john

1:29

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Before the trade, I kept hearing that Hossa was such a complete player, both a sniper and a great defensive player. I can't say that I saw anything special on D from him in the playoffs. The guy is a very good first liner but he isn't the complete package

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 Alex LV

1:29

Matt:

I think Fleury is replaceable, but if you can't do it for cheaper, then why would you.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 Matt

1:29

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Rental players are rarely worht it ... and the same goes for singing big ticket UFA's ... they just don't seem to pay off

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 Borris Jerome

1:29

[Comment From TylerTyler: ]

I agree, the Caps are certainly hitting their prime

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 Tyler

1:29

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

do we think the pen's could have gone as far as they did with out hossa? in my opinion no, and they made a hell of a run with him

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 john

1:29

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

Don't know if the Caps are ready, IMO, but again, would like to see what Pitt. does. There is still enough talent there and this run can't hurt them.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:29 Johnfronts

1:30

[Comment From Steve LeporeSteve Lepore: ]

How much will Ryan Malone get in the open market?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:30 Steve Lepore

1:30

James Mirtle:

a lot. He's a big body and a 30-goal guy - easily more than $4-mil a season

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:30 James Mirtle

1:30

[Comment From IffyIffy: ]

10-12 homegames definitely covered Hossa's cost, if we are talking only financial. From a franchise building perspective .. hard to see it as a good move.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:30 Iffy

1:30

Matt:

Ryan Malone will get overpaid by someone besides Pittsburgh. How many teams are looking for a tough winger who can score 20-30 goals? 25? 28? And most of them have cap room.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:30 Matt

1:31

James Mirtle:

there's no guarantee they'd even be able to use the assets they moved for Hossa...

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:31 James Mirtle

1:31

James Mirtle:

I don't know how big of a factor being from Pittsburgh will be

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:31 James Mirtle

1:31

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

RE: Hossa deal You have to go for it when you have a chance. That's what they did. Can't fault it.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:31 Johnfronts

1:31

[Comment From The ConfluenceThe Confluence: ]

Afternoon boys... I have to agree with the earlier comment. I was very disappointed in the Pens' lack of desparation last night, as compared to Game Five. it wasn't until the last few minutes that they really got desparate....

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:31 The Confluence

1:31

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

What I would be curious to see is the ratings from Sweden...

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:31 Alex LV

1:32

James Mirtle:

they had to get up mighty early there to watch last night's game

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 James Mirtle

1:32

[Comment From odessastepsodessasteps: ]

yeah, massive t-storms and tornado watch in DC/Baltimore last night. Many areas without power.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 odessasteps

1:32

[Comment From Duke PhillipsDuke Phillips: ]

I'm sure there's a pretty big contingent of Wings fans in Ohio... that may be what's cranking up the Columbus numbers

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 Duke Phillips

1:32

Matt:

All teams look inept and lacking desperation against the Wings, for the most part. The reason is that the Wings are better.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 Matt

1:32

James Mirtle:

the market's close to Pittsburgh, too, Duke

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 James Mirtle

1:32

James Mirtle:

Did you see that when the Flames played them during the year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:32 James Mirtle

1:33

Matt:

Yep, and in the playoffs last season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:33 Matt

1:33

James Mirtle:

What's incredible is how far under the cap the Wings are heading into next year. They can pack on at least $10-mil in salary and not lose much

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:33 James Mirtle

1:33

James Mirtle:

Calgary got wiped out in last year's postseason, that's for sure

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:33 James Mirtle

1:34

James Mirtle:

http://nhlnumbers.com/overview.php?team=DET

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:34 James Mirtle

1:34

Matt:

If you surveyed the post-game stories from the Wing-opponents' home newspapers for the past two years, you would find an awful lot of the word "flat".

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:34 Matt

1:34

James Mirtle:

here's a photo gallery I put together last night for The Globe

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:34 James Mirtle

1:35

James Mirtle:

here's a funny question then: How can Detroit improve through free agency? They've got the cash

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 James Mirtle

1:35

[Comment From PPPPPP: ]

Matt - You don't think Angelo Esposito's going to make it?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 PPP

1:35

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

I much as I like Olczyk. I wish they would reunite Emrick and Clement.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 Johnfronts

1:35

[Comment From NJ Pens FanNJ Pens Fan: ]

That Vegas info will only fuel Bettman's want of having the next expansion hit Las Vegas.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 NJ Pens Fan

1:35

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

Shoot, I want Hossa on the Island...I KNOW that's not going to happen!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 Johnfronts

1:35

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

What can Shero do to avoid needing to decide between Staal and Malkin? Will he possibly move one (Staal) next year to get assets?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:35 Pension Plan Puppets

1:36

Matt:

Esposito might be a player some day, but it was worth the risk I think. Remember it wasn't just Hossa that came back either, it was Dupuis as well, and he made a difference.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:36 Matt

1:36

James Mirtle:

thinking about Esposito reminds me of where he's going... Atlanta

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:36 James Mirtle

1:37

James Mirtle:

there's a sinking ship

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 James Mirtle

1:37

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Can the Pens let Malone go? Even though he might not produce as much as expected offensively, the guy played an important role and seemed to be a leader on that squad

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 Alex LV

1:37

James Mirtle:

Shero's got some tough calls

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 James Mirtle

1:37

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

You don't. You have to make sure you retain at least one of them I would think. Don't you agree?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 Johnfronts

1:37

Matt:

If I was Shero, I'd at least be exploring what Jordan Staal is worth in trade. You cannot pay everyone, especially when they're all the same age, and all need long-term deals.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 Matt

1:37

James Mirtle:

Staal looks pretty impressive for 19. Will he surpass his brother, you think?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:37 James Mirtle

1:38

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

i think they should deal malkin and keep staal, im sure they can fetch a pretty hefty price for malkin

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 john

1:38

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

I don't see the what all the hype about Staal is ... sure he will command a raise, but I don't think it's warranted to be in that $5 million range ... not for what he's done thus far. He needs a monster year next year to convince me otherwise

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 Borris Jerome

1:38

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

Even more then Hossa, would LOVE to see Malone on the Island. Love his character and play...unfortunately...don't see it happening...god it sucks being an Islander fan :(

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 Johnfronts

1:38

James Mirtle:

poor John

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 James Mirtle

1:38

James Mirtle:

at least you have a goalie locked up

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 James Mirtle

1:38

[Comment From GaryGary: ]

Any thoughts on talk that CBC won't be using the theme for HNiC next year? http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2008/06/05/hockeysong.html

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:38 Gary

1:39

Matt:

Doesn't look like Jordan has Eric's O to me, but who knows. You're asking me about the wrong conference, James. :)

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:39 Matt

1:39

James Mirtle:

we'll just have to broadcast it on the blogosphere more often

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:39 James Mirtle

1:39

James Mirtle:

hey, I brought you here to test you

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:39 James Mirtle

1:39

James Mirtle:

anyone in the West besides Detroit primed for a step up next year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:39 James Mirtle

1:39

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

I hope Vancouver will make an offer to Malone. He would look great standing in front of the net with the Sedin twisn circling around

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:39 Alex LV

1:40

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

James, any word if they have burned down any sheds in Newfoundland yet due to the win?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:40 Blackcapricorn

1:40

James Mirtle:

I'd love to be at that party. Thought the story The Pensblog had about Cleary's dad heckling Penguins fans was hilarious

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:40 James Mirtle

1:40

Matt:

From TSN today: Sharks ask for permission to speak to Tortorella.
BattleofAlberta.ca gets results!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:40 Matt

1:40

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

THAT'S how you run a franchise. Detroit is just SO impressive in all facets of their organization.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:40 Johnfronts

1:41

James Mirtle:

San Jose's talking to, and low balling, everyone, it seems

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 James Mirtle

1:41

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Yea Dupuis kept messing up Crosby's passes, he was AWESOME!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 Blackcapricorn

1:41

[Comment From ADAMADAM: ]

A dynasty is when the same core group of players win3 or more championships in 5 or so years

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 ADAM

1:41

James Mirtle:

79% of the readers disagree

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 James Mirtle

1:41

Matt:

If the Sharks can fortify their D a bit, preferably with someone besides Brian Campbell, I think they'll be fantastic. I think the Stars will go backwards.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 Matt

1:41

[Comment From BethBeth: ]

(Glen Wesley just officially announced his retirement)

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 Beth

1:41

James Mirtle:

great career for him

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:41 James Mirtle

1:42

James Mirtle:

San Jose needs to step up and really spend some money

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 James Mirtle

1:42

Matt:

The Brett Hull era will end a lot worse than the Doug Armstrong era, IMO

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 Matt

1:42

James Mirtle:

they've been hovering well below the cap for a while now

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 James Mirtle

1:42

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Staal seems to bring many intangibles that usually dont show much in value when trades happen

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 Alex LV

1:42

[Comment From JohnfrontsJohnfronts: ]

You have to figure, if you're Shero, that you not going to be able to retain them both. You would have to see what the market is for them both. Better to get something then have them walk away...yes....we have a goalie...WooHOO!

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 Johnfronts

1:42

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Re: Western Conference. You have to think that the Oilers, if healthy, will make a big jump up the standings

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:42 Borris Jerome

1:43

Matt:

The Oilers will be a better team, but they outperformed what they ought to have been this season... if you follow. Tyler at mc79hockey.com has written quite a bit about this.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:43 Matt

1:44

James Mirtle:

a healthy Souray though...

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 James Mirtle

1:44

Matt:

They might be 12 points better than this past season and still end up with 88

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 Matt

1:44

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

could we see dallas trying to make another deep run next year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 john

1:44

[Comment From BethBeth: ]

(and Wesley will stay with the 'Canes org in a defense development role - and yes the Canes are retiring his number)

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 Beth

1:44

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

Did you guys have a chance to read Allan Maki's article: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080605.wspt-maki05/BNStory/GlobeSportsHockey

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 Pension Plan Puppets

1:44

James Mirtle:

I've got that up on my screen now PPP

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:44 James Mirtle

1:45

James Mirtle:

From Maki: "Here we are three years into the collective agreement that was going to save the NHL, make it a better, more viable business, and you can still see fires on the horizon. Some are manageable burns; some are close to raging out of control. All require attention."

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:45 James Mirtle

1:45

James Mirtle:

some ownership situations down south are in a real bind

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:45 James Mirtle

1:46

Matt:

Yeah, the papers are full of writers now who are apologizing for being wrong about the lockout. What? Oh...

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:46 Matt

1:46

James Mirtle:

the economy certainly plays a big role

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:46 James Mirtle

1:47

James Mirtle:

if the Cdn dollar stayed at 80 cents, how much does that help the Phoenixs of the league?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:47 James Mirtle

1:47

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Is there any hope for the Sabs next year? I am thinking a few new dmen and they could be dangerous

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:47 Blackcapricorn

1:47

Matt:

I think the Sabres were better than their results this year... they'll be back in the playoffs.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:47 Matt

1:48

James Mirtle:

I think there's a ton of talent still in Buffalo and what they really needed this season was experience. A lot of guys had to step up after the big guns left town

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:48 James Mirtle

1:48

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

The Canucks have to do something right? Naslund, Morrisson are off the books and only 2 years left on Luongo's contract. That window is getting smaller

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:48 Alex LV

1:48

Matt:

Pominville might be the most underrated player in the East

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:48 Matt

1:48

James Mirtle:

Vancouver's off-season will be fascinating. Who really knows what to expect from Gillis?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:48 James Mirtle

1:49

Matt:

Well, if he was paying attention to what happened to the last guy, he'll know that he's expected to fail spectacularly, not quietly.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:49 Matt

1:50

James Mirtle:

Nonis's biggest failing was sitting on his hands far too often

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:50 James Mirtle

1:50

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Gillis simply scares me.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:50 Borris Jerome

1:51

Matt:

Sure, but Gillis' hands aren't tied by anything Nonis did. Contrast to TO.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:51 Matt

1:51

James Mirtle:

I'm not sure Toronto has any hands left

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:51 James Mirtle

1:52

Matt:

[that will be my last Leafs reference today]

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:52 Matt

1:52

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

what about Carolina? are they going to sliding down even further this coming year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:52 john

1:52

James Mirtle:

the Hurricanes sort of seem like they're a mess. I can't see a long-term plan there, other than to annoint Joe Corvo as the team's No. 1 blueliner

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:52 James Mirtle

1:53

Matt:

Nah, Carolina should get back in too. They had an atrocious PK that killed them for too long. They're a good EV team, that's a good place to start. Unless they trade Erik Cole, in which case I take it all back.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:53 Matt

1:54

James Mirtle:

some nice pieces up front, but the defence will change dramatically without Hedican, Wesley and Commodore

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:54 James Mirtle

1:54

James Mirtle:

Ward's a big part of what happens there. At the very least, their division doesn't appear headed anywhere great

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:54 James Mirtle

1:55

[Comment From The ConfluenceThe Confluence: ]

What's to say that Winnipeg and Quebec City (or other "smaller" Canadian cities) wouldn't eventually have the same problems after a few years ?? Just playing Devil's advocate here, they did recently have NHL teams, after all...

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:55 The Confluence

1:55

James Mirtle:

I'm not so sure Winnipeg's a slam dunk success, and Quebec's an even less sure thing that that

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:55 James Mirtle

1:55

James Mirtle:

Southern Ontario's where the NHL needs to go

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:55 James Mirtle

1:55

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Now that the smoke has clearted, the lockout accomplished little when it comes to controlling idiot GM's. The same well run teams will continue to succeed and the same teams that shell out big dollars to UFA's will likely not. On a related note - someone please calmly remove Bettman as Commissioner.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:55 Borris Jerome

1:55

Matt:

No, they're pretty small and un-wealthy

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:55 Matt

1:56

James Mirtle:

if there was a billionaire owner in Winnipeg or Quebec, who could absorb losses in the down years, then maybe it's plausible. Otherwise, it's probably not happening

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:56 James Mirtle

1:56

[Comment From WillWill: ]

You guy's mentioned Malone and Hossa, what about Brooks Orpik? I think he deserves some credit for the hard hitting, solid defense he provided as well. I'd like to see them keep at least one, if not two of those three

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:56 Will

1:57

James Mirtle:

I don't think keeping more than one is realistic, going forward

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:57 James Mirtle

1:57

James Mirtle:

Orpik will get big, big dollars on the open market

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:57 James Mirtle

1:58

[Comment From WillWill: ]

I do not think Fluery is replaceable. He is on the upswing of his career and will be considered an elite goalie next season, if he isn't already from his playoff and end of season play.

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:58 Will

1:58	If they can only afford two of their pending RFAs, who should Pittsburgh keep? Staal & Malkin ( 13% ) Fleury & Malkin ( 53% ) Staal & Fleury ( 33% ) Thursday June 5, 2008 1:58

1:59

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

I have a post that I started writing and didn't end up finishing from the day that Hossa got traded. Key graf:

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:59 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

1:59

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

"Pierre McGuire's reaction to the Hossa trade. The mother of the Ryan boys in Saving Private Ryan took the news that three of her sons were dead more stoically than McGuire took the news that Pittsburgh had moved Colby Armstrong, Erik Christiansen, Angelo Esposito and their first round draft pick to Atlanta for Marian Hossa. He was angry on two grounds - first, that the price was too high and second, that Pittsburgh was going to turn into Tampa Bay North - a reference to the possibility that the Pens will tie up a ton of money in a few guys."

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:59 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

1:59

Matt:

bwaahaha

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:59 Matt

1:59

[Comment From WoodyWoody: ]

IS THERE ANY CONCEIVABLE WAY THAT PENGUINS KEEP HOSSA???

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:59 Woody

1:59

James Mirtle:

if he takes a one-year deal, maybe. I'm not sure he'll do that

Thursday June 5, 2008 1:59 James Mirtle

2:00

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Matt said it earlier but that was a great trade. This was the other paragraph that I think looks good in retrospect: "First of all, the Penguins loss in terms of roster players wasn't really that high. Colby Armstrong is signed through next season at $1.2MM; after that, he's got another year as an RFA and then he's a UFA. Christensen is signed through 08-09 too; he's then got two more years as an RFA before becoming a UFA. Neither of these guys looks to be huge pieces of the puzzle in Pittsburgh. They were both playing third line ES minutes, Armstrong was a third pairing PK guy and Christensen was playing second unit PP minutes. With Hossa coming in, Christensen likely wouldn't have a role on the PP anyway. The roles that they played weren't huge roles, which makes replacing them easier in the future, although I note that Armstrong looks to have been playing very tough minutes."

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:00 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:00

Matt:

Sure, if they want to trade Malkin

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:00 Matt

2:00

Matt:

Shorter Tyler: they didn't give up THAT much. Agreed.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:00 Matt

2:00

James Mirtle:

Penguins fans unfortunately want to keep everyone

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:00 James Mirtle

2:01

Matt:

There's just a few teams who aren't in a position to make a big FA signing this summer. The Pens are one of them. (Flames are another)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:01 Matt

2:02

Matt:

Seller's market, at the top end for sure.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:02 Matt

2:02

James Mirtle:

with all the money thrown around recently, you'd think that'd be a bigger group

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:02 James Mirtle

2:02

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

The reason I point to this is that I think it's a bit much to be saying that the Pens are in trouble because of the FA's. That team has some incredible talents - Crosby/Malkin/Hossa (for the sake of argument) blows away Vinny L./St. Louis/Richards by my math. If ever there was a team that could make the top heavy approach work, it's them.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:02 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:02

[Comment From WillWill: ]

OK, so which one of the three is most likely to come back?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:02 Will

2:02

James Mirtle:

Will means of the UFAs

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:02 James Mirtle

2:03

James Mirtle:

probably Malone, who could take a small discount to stay in what is literally his hometown

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:03 James Mirtle

2:03

Matt:

Malone = gone. I think they'll try hardest to keep Orpik.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:03 Matt

2:04	Who will Pittsburgh keep? Orpik ($4-mil) ( 42% ) Malone ($5-mil) ( 42% ) Hossa ($8-mil) ( 16% ) Thursday June 5, 2008 2:04

2:04

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Did Orpik double his coming salary with his playoffs performance?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:04 Alex LV

2:04

[Comment From IffyIffy: ]

Biggggg question: can they afford to keep Conklin?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:04 Iffy

2:04

[Comment From IffyIffy: ]

Question for Matt :) Can they afford to keep Conklin?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:04 Iffy

2:05

[Comment From WoodyWoody: ]

So theres no way to keep crosby and hossa on the same line with malkin centering the second line?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:05 Woody

2:05

James Mirtle:

all three will make $8-million or more, so the question is, do you want to spend about 50% of your salary on three players?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:05 James Mirtle

2:05

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Not noted, Armstrong and Crosby were allegedly best buds in that locker room

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:05 Blackcapricorn

2:06

Matt:

Past Hossa, who's next as a desirable UFA on a (say) 5-year deal? It might be Malone! And again, with more than half the league ready and willing to spend a bunch of dough on a scoring winger, he'll probably need a dump truck for his $$ too. A small discount will still be more than the Pens can afford.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Matt

2:06

James Mirtle:

Crosby seemed okay

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 James Mirtle

2:06

Matt:

"Crosby seemed okay" -- well said.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Matt

2:06

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

And what is the cap figure going to be for next season?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Pension Plan Puppets

2:06

James Mirtle:

apx $56-million

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 James Mirtle

2:06

Matt:

(maybe he was crying on the inside)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Matt

2:06

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

I always loved Burke's hypothetical method to keeping his team intact. Basically his premise was: "I'd get all of my roster players in the locker room, sit them down, give them the total budget for player salaries, and leave it up to them on how to divide up the money. Maybe then they'll understand that it isn't always about 'me'. "

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Borris Jerome

2:06

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

If I was the Pens, I owuldn't pay Malone

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:06 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:07

[Comment From WillWill: ]

I wouldn't mind Malone. I know his numbers aren't staggering but he was definitely an emotional leader of that team and probably the definition of a hockey player

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 Will

2:07

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

are we going to see massive spending (and to what some consider over spending) for FA's again this off season?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 john

2:07

James Mirtle:

yes

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 James Mirtle

2:07

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

haha thanks James

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 Blackcapricorn

2:07

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Blackcapricorn: I've been in a coma since the trade - was Crosby able to get overmissing him?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:07

James Mirtle:

sort of. his facial hair never recovered

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 James Mirtle

2:07

Matt:

It's a terrible, terrible year to be trying to sign a mid-level forward. Good GMs will avoid it if at all possible.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:07 Matt

2:08

James Mirtle:

there isn't much available in goal either

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:08 James Mirtle

2:08

James Mirtle:

the Capitals might end up paying big to try and keep Huet

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:08 James Mirtle

2:08

James Mirtle:

and Dan Ellis will be in demand

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:08 James Mirtle

2:08

Matt:

Not unless Dan Ellis is the real deal

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:08 Matt

2:09

James Mirtle:

Not unless GMs think Dan Ellis is the real deal

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 James Mirtle

2:09

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Yeah, I can't imagine where people who were expoxsed to Brian Burke for an extended period of time would get the idea that it's always about 'me'. Shocking, that.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:09

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

ok sure pile on me for that one :)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 Blackcapricorn

2:09

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Maybe Armstrong would have told him to keep shaving regularly

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:09

[Comment From WillWill: ]

I have confidence that Shero can do what is best for the Penguins. I'd like to see him keep Fleury around for a long time. Can see him being anchor of franchise (besides crosby duh)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 Will

2:09

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

I have a funny feeling that the Oilers would listen if you called about Dwayne Roloson...mark it down - by December of next year, they're going to be talking about goaltending problems in Edmonton.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:09 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:10

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

i agree with matt, but is the over paying in free agency going to run rampant over the next few years with fewer top level players being available to these lengthy contracts being given out, so GMs over pay for mid level players?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:10 john

2:10

Matt:

Sutter's going to get roasted this summer... everyone says the Flames need to get younger, but the only way to improve the club will be with old men on short-term deals

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:10 Matt

2:10

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Is Kipper on the downslope or was it just an off year?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:10 Blackcapricorn

2:10

Matt:

Off year? Please please please?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:10 Matt

2:11

James Mirtle:

Kiprusoff could be a study in just how unpredictable goaltenders are

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:11 James Mirtle

2:11

Matt:

John: yes

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:11 Matt

2:11

James Mirtle:

it's interesting that the Red Wings don't like spending in goal as a mantra

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:11 James Mirtle

2:11

[Comment From ChaseChase: ]

will the wings be able to keep zetterberg and franzen as they become free agents in 09?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:11 Chase

2:12

James Mirtle:

I think so. They're well-positioned under the cap

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:12 James Mirtle

2:12

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Downslope. I was reading Iltalehti the other day and he apparently can't move his knee more than 90 degrees.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:12 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:12

[Comment From WillWill: ]

With all these players potentially leaving Pitt for the big payday, what solid role players do you think the Pens can lure to come play along side crosby/malkin for a reasonable price?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:12 Will

2:12

Matt:

I'm HOPING Kipper is unpredictable... if I had to predict his SV% next season using the available trends, I might strangle myself with my mouse cord.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:12 Matt

2:13

James Mirtle:

geez, that's a great question. What undervalued talent would be out there for Pittsburgh to snap up?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:13 James Mirtle

2:13

Matt:

"I was reading Iltalehti the other day" -- oh, you were not.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:13 Matt

2:13

Matt:

The same undervalued talent that the other 29 teams will be trying to find and sign.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:13 Matt

2:14

James Mirtle:

poor Penguins fans... they're still licking their wounds and we're telling them they're in tough for the next few years

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:14 James Mirtle

2:14

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Matt Cooke & darcy Tucker are available... let's see them on a line with Jarkko

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:14 Alex LV

2:14

[Comment From WillWill: ]

No clue, but with them potentially losing so many contributors, they are going to have to replace them with SOMEONE

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:14 Will

2:14

James Mirtle:

Mike Ryder?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:14 James Mirtle

2:15

James Mirtle:

David Vyborny?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 James Mirtle

2:15

James Mirtle:

not a lot of scoring options available at forward

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 James Mirtle

2:15

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

Who the hell is Iltalehti? Poor Penguins fans? Talk to me in 30 years when their Cup drought hits 40 years

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 Pension Plan Puppets

2:15

Matt:

Ryder is probably a good gamble for someone. Ditto Jason Williams. But as always, it depends on price.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 Matt

2:15

James Mirtle:

Stillman's a UFA again

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 James Mirtle

2:15

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

Yes, take Tucker!

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:15 Pension Plan Puppets

2:16

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

James - that was about as self-serving as Mike Smith talking about how the Hawks made the plaoyffs in 01-02 because of his brilliant free agent signings. The Wings spent huge money on goalies between 01-02 and 03-04, were capped out in 05-06 and then last year Hasek was about as good as they could do.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:16 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:16

[Comment From WillWill: ]

The best answer for them, as hard as it is for me to say, is maybe make some sort of trade with one of their younger players. Staal? ouch... I have a man-crush on Jordan

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:16 Will

2:16

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

The Islanders had a whole line of under-achievers that should be mid-range: Satan, Fedetenko, Vasicek

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:16 Alex LV

2:16

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Iltalehti = Finland's biggest newspaper

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:16 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:16

[Comment From WillWill: ]

This time of the season sucks, I don't want to lose ANYBODY!!!!

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:16 Will

2:17

Matt:

I'd roll the dice with Satan. The other guy I like who I think can still play is Gelinas.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 Matt

2:17

James Mirtle:

the Penguins are going to lose, what, 7-8 players?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 James Mirtle

2:17

James Mirtle:

Satan's headed to New Jersey

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 James Mirtle

2:17

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

PIT should take a run at GlenX.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:17

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

what is out there for free agents in the way of puck moving defense man?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 john

2:17

Matt:

The Isles' forward depth was fantastic... their problem is the first line. And the D.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 Matt

2:17

James Mirtle:

Brian Campbell, Liles, Hainsey

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:17 James Mirtle

2:18

Matt:

Someone will overpay huge for Liles, I think.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:18 Matt

2:18

James Mirtle:

Redden, Stuart, Mara, Hedican, Rozsival, Kalinin

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:18 James Mirtle

2:18

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

McCabe is available for a song :)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:18 Pension Plan Puppets

2:19

James Mirtle:

that HNIC song?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 James Mirtle

2:19

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Mark Streit would be interesting in Pittsburgh...

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 Alex LV

2:19

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

Question: Is this the year that the Central finally turns into a powerhouse division? We saw glimpses of how threatening their teams can be this year, so will this be the year teams like Chicago and St. Louis turn it up and make playoff runs?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 Kristopher Arseneault

2:19

James Mirtle:

Chicago, maybe, St. Louis, I don't think so

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 James Mirtle

2:19

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

think the wings will try to keep stuart?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 john

2:19

James Mirtle:

Yes

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 James Mirtle

2:19

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

My question is regarding the Conn Smythe Trophy. Does the payer get to keep it or do they hand it back at the next Stanley Cup?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:19 Guest

2:20

Matt:

St. Louis is interesting... they made what I thought were some smart bets (Kariya excepted), they just didn't work out. That happens.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:20 Matt

2:20

James Mirtle:

they get some sort of a replica trophy

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:20 James Mirtle

2:20

[Comment From WillWill: ]

Staying in PA a little bit, do you think the Flyers can build on their suprising success from this year? They have some nice young talent in Richards, Carter, etc...

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:20 Will

2:20

Matt:

Chicago could be fantastic. Or they could be about the same as this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:20 Matt

2:21

James Mirtle:

the Blackhawks defence is starting to take off

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:21 James Mirtle

2:21

James Mirtle:

they need more out of Khabibulin

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:21 James Mirtle

2:21

James Mirtle:

Philly could definitely improve - they lose only Jason Smith, and have to resign RFAs Umberger and Carter. They might have some cash to throw out for another defenceman

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:21 James Mirtle

2:21

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

I think St. Louis could threaten, though Nashville and Chicago are probably the best picks.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:21 Kristopher Arseneault

2:22

James Mirtle:

Nashville could do something if they can spend more

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 James Mirtle

2:22

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Just on the topic of the Central - I know that the Oilers were lucky to have the points that they had, but NSH had a soft sked and finished three points ahead of them

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:22

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

I think Richards is now the #1 center after this year's playoffs. Briere now becomes a very expensive second liner center

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 Alex LV

2:22

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Won't get it.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:22

Matt:

If I was betting, I'd say Hawks in the playoffs. The real wild card is the BJs; Nash has become elite, their GM seems to know what he's doing, good coach. But, it's going to be hard to improve through the FA market this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 Matt

2:22

[Comment From WillWill: ]

Philly will probably be looking for one of those puck moving defensemen that you mentioned

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 Will

2:22

James Mirtle:

Columbus got pulled apart again by free agency

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:22 James Mirtle

2:23

James Mirtle:

and they weren't that great to begin with

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 James Mirtle

2:23

James Mirtle:

and they weren't that great to begin with

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 James Mirtle

2:23

James Mirtle:

for emphasis, I guess

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 James Mirtle

2:23

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

what about moving carter for some pieces?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 john

2:23

James Mirtle:

Could happen, I suppose

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 James Mirtle

2:23

[Comment From WillWill: ]

@Alex LV: good call on Richards and Briere

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 Will

2:23

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Are you serious Matt? Hawks in the playoffs? Ahead of who?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:23

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

I love the NHL Free Agent market. It is easily the most interesting of the big-leagues, as players who aren't washed up make it on the market on a consistent basis, especially after the season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:23 Kristopher Arseneault

2:24

James Mirtle:

we have a special guest comment

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:24 James Mirtle

2:24

[Comment From Boots Del BiaggioBoots Del Biaggio: ]

James, what do you mean by suggesting that Nashville spending more ?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:24 Boots Del Biaggio

2:24

Matt:

Hawks in the playoffs? Sure. Candidates to go backwards: Dallas, Calgary, Colorado, Minnesota. Maybe the Ducks. Maybe Nashville.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:24 Matt

2:25

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

again with the anti-Columbus tilt James ;)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:25 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:25

Matt:

Hawks didn't miss by a lot this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:25 Matt

2:25

James Mirtle:

there were some BJs fans on HFboards that were talking about greeting me with pitchforks in Cbus

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:25 James Mirtle

2:25

Matt:

(though I have no confidence in Savard as a coach)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:25 Matt

2:25

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Would Federov be gready enough to re-sign with somebody else than Washington? He looked awesome with the young Russian LWs

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:25 Alex LV

2:26

James Mirtle:

I don't know that Fedorov's in a position to command a lot

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 James Mirtle

2:26

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

Chicago could definitely make it ahead of some of the Northwest teams.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 Kristopher Arseneault

2:26

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

I'd say the Ducks would go backwards before Dallas. I think Dallas is turning towards the up; they showed a lot of toughness this playoff season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 Kristopher Arseneault

2:26

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Too bad Havlat is made out of glass

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 Blackcapricorn

2:26

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

if the sabers get better and back into the playoff mix that would make for a very interesting northeast, and that was already a log jam at the end of this season

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 john

2:26

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Hey I had that too once with the Jackets fans, in 2006. They made this picture mocking my suggestion that the Oilers were a cup contender if they had a goalie.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:26

James Mirtle:

well, you'll agree that's a little preposterous

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 James Mirtle

2:26

[Comment From ChaseChase: ]

Pittsburgh needs to trade Malkin or Staal. I think the to be a true contender, you need a mix of veteran and young top line talent.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:26 Chase

2:27

Matt:

I don't like virtually anything that Hull/Jackson have done since they were installed. I think they have made some bad bets (and will continue to) that will eventually bite them.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:27 Matt

2:27

Matt:

Though re-signing Tippett was a good call.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:27 Matt

2:28

James Mirtle:

I agree with everything on the Stars front

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:28 James Mirtle

2:28

James Mirtle:

they looked good riding Armstrong's team to the conference finals, but going forward, things are getting thin

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:28 James Mirtle

2:28

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

I love Jackets fans. The Columbus/Minnesota expansion was the best one the league has made.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:28 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:28

[Comment From PeterPeter: ]

How much does Hossa make next year and who's the top three to get him?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:28 Peter

2:28

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Matt: The Riberio/Richards combo up the middle makes me agree with you. That's a lot of money long-term for a middling combination.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:28 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:29

Matt:

Everyone's chasing the Wings and Sharks. For any team to get there, they'll need to be smart AND lucky. One or the other won't do it.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:29 Matt

2:29

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Armstrong did a good interview with Stauffer the other day where he basically said that teams are judged too much on the playoffs.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:29 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:29

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Good stuff.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:29 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:29

James Mirtle:

well, just look at the Wings' recent history

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:29 James Mirtle

2:30

James Mirtle:

they've been an incredible team, but it took this year for everyone to really fawn over Holland's team

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:30 James Mirtle

2:30

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

I dunno. I think they got some great players and leadership there. For me, Anaheim just seems like a broken team. They lost a lot of the heart that got them to the Cup last year, and they are still in a sort of limbo at the moment. Along with the EPIC BRIAN BURKE NEWS SAGA, I feel like Dallas has more upside to it.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:30 Kristopher Arseneault

2:30

[Comment From PeterPeter: ]

sorry to interrupt the western lovefest.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:30 Peter

2:30

Matt:

Disagree about Dallas, but I agree that the potential is there for Anaheim to go downhill fast

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:30 Matt

2:31

James Mirtle:

Hossa's going to command at least $8-million a season long-term. He'll have as many as nine or 10 suitors

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:31 James Mirtle

2:31

James Mirtle:

who's likely to get him? I think whoever pays the most

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:31 James Mirtle

2:31

James Mirtle:

I hear Boston's interested

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:31 James Mirtle

2:31

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Y'all might think I am crazy but I think the Kings are a good goalie away from being really dangerous. They can put up 4-6 goals with that offense a game and the D is young and getting better. Its just sad to see the various sieves they had in there totally destroy whatever momentum they had this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:31 Blackcapricorn

2:31

Matt:

Pronger is awesome, but we saw this past fall that he's not able to carry a team.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:31 Matt

2:32

[Comment From Earl SleekEarl Sleek: ]

Re: the Ducks. So much depends on the decisions of Niedermayer and Selanne, it's a bit tough to say much definitively until their decisions are made and known.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 Earl Sleek

2:32

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Agreed James - I think that people sell the Wings teams between 2002-03 and 2006-07 short though. Those were great teams.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:32

Matt:

Blackcapricorn, you are crazy. I literally think that goaltending is their last problem.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 Matt

2:32

James Mirtle:

but Rob Blake wants to return!

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 James Mirtle

2:32

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Anaheim still has a good goalie, norris-candidate defenseman and good young forwards. no big reason for them to go into a big slide.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:32

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

for the love of god please let boston break the bank of him. savard and hossa together. id gladly ride tim thomas for another year

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:32 john

2:33

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Word. I won't have anyone dissing my man LaBarbera!

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:33 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:33

James Mirtle:

Dellow married LaBarbera last season

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:33 James Mirtle

2:33

Matt:

Kopitar is more Kovalchuk than Zetterberg (just not as good). They need more Frolovs. Brown has promise, but cripes they are thin at forward.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:33 Matt

2:33

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

What's the over/under on how many games Crawford gets before he's canned?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:33 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:33

[Comment From Tyler@mc79hockey.comTyler@mc79hockey.com: ]

Well before that my friend, well before that.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:33 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:34

James Mirtle:

that depends, how many games does Crow play Cloutier?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 James Mirtle

2:34

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

There are tons of people here - what's the last time a team scored 320 gals in a season?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:34

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

I dunno if LaBarbera is a problem or a solution, but certainly, he's not THE problem if he is one. That D is mind-numbingly bad.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 Doogie

2:34

Matt:

I can't believe Crawford hasn't been canned already.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 Matt

2:34

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

@Jonathan: But they lack motivation, they have little in the way of scoring (Even if Teemu sticks around), and their GM seems like he could bolt after this season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 Kristopher Arseneault

2:34

[Comment From PeterPeter: ]

Was it just me or did Malkin look better without Crosby last night?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:34 Peter

2:35

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

I can't believe Crawford was hired.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Doogie

2:35

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

I thought it was telling that Team Canada at the WHC included the Kings associate coach, but no Crow.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:35

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

@Doogie and Matt - Remember that Flames/Kings game this year where LaBarbera got torched for 6 and they were all just shots alone in the slot? What an awful team defensively.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:35

James Mirtle:

the LA franchise is really in a mess... they didn't even tank properly

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 James Mirtle

2:35

[Comment From BillBill: ]

How many cups would Detroit have won over the last 11 years if they were in the weaker east?b

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Bill

2:35

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

And this was brought up earlier, but if Tort goes to San Jose, I think they could honest-to-God give the Wings a serious run for the top spot in the West. Each year it seems like San Jose plays "just good enough" and then disappears in the second round. A good coach (and maybe a captain change) might be able to truly keep them motivated.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Kristopher Arseneault

2:35

Matt:

I hardly watched any EC hockey at all this year, so my exposure to Malkin was basically just the finals. Reaction: this dude is a Hart nominee?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:35 Matt

2:36

James Mirtle:

Malkin was horrible. And for all the overtures about him being injured in these playoffs, he said afterward that he was fine

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:36 James Mirtle

2:36

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Doogie, agreed, they keep wanting to pass in front of their own net a lot but I do see a lot of potential there. Of course potential gets you a whole lot of nothing but I am sticking to my guns on this one.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:36 Blackcapricorn

2:36

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Please someone tell me when the disucssion about Crawford & Cloutier will stop so I can open my eyes again... I cant bear to think back to those Vancouver years stuck with those two

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:36 Alex LV

2:36

Matt:

The Kings are a bad EV and PK team; they can't keep the puck going in the right direction.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:36 Matt

2:36

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

@Tyler: Yes, I do think I remember that, now that you mention it. That was...wow.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:36 Doogie

2:37

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

I heard from one Pens fan that the reason Malkin was generally better without Crosby is because he was able to play his natural C position more, instead of being stuck on a wing. Dunno what you think of that.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:37 Doogie

2:37

Matt:

That's forwards and D. I love Frolov, but past that, they're very dubious.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:37 Matt

2:37

James Mirtle:

no comment on Rob Blake's return?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:37 James Mirtle

2:38

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

I KNEW Malkin wasn't hurt. I guess he learned from the Spezza/Heatley School of Deflecting Blame.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:38 Pension Plan Puppets

2:38

Matt:

I think La-B finished up dead middle in the NHL SV% rankings. That's not bad on a lousy team; it certainly ain't a weakness.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:38 Matt

2:38

James Mirtle:

Kings defencemen signed for next season: Visnovsky, Johnson and Preissing

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:38 James Mirtle

2:39

Matt:

I like Rob Blake on a 1yr/$3M deal, or the like. Not as someone to rely on.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 Matt

2:39

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Lombardi got unlucky big-time on the FA market. Handzus and Nagy both should have been better than they were.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:39

[Comment From ChaseChase: ]

i think a lot of people forget that detroit lost to some hot teams that went all the way to the cup finals from 03-07 (calgary, anaheim x 2, edmonton). it's not like they were upset by a completely inferior team that was not playing well. and all those teams also played well in the cup finals.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 Chase

2:39

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

Rob Blake should retire. He's not helping his legacy any at this point, and he's certainly not helping the Kings rebuild.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 Doogie

2:39

Matt:

Handzus might be better this year. Same with Lubo.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 Matt

2:39

James Mirtle:

I'm not sure Visnovsky could be worse

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:39 James Mirtle

2:40

James Mirtle:

his $5.6-mil deal kicks in too

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:40 James Mirtle

2:40

[Comment From johnjohn: ]

there is hope for malkin yet, didnt datsuyk suffer from the terrible playoff performer label for quite sometime also?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:40 john

2:40

Matt:

He did. I'm not actually down on Malkin as a player going forward, I just wasn't impressed.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:40 Matt

2:41

Matt:

G5 almost wasn't tied up because Malkin passed it straight to Franzen with 40 seconds left... then Franzen gave it back up.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:41 Matt

2:41

Matt:

Datsyuk was also hurt in '06.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:41 Matt

2:43

Matt:

Anyway, I have the Pens, for 08/09, as being behind DET, SJS, and WSH, and ahead of just about everybody else.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:43 Matt

2:43

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

Words don't really cover the extent of the drepression caused by my realization that I remmeber Rob Blake starting hsi career

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:43 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:44

Matt:

Hey, I remember being excited when the Flames drafted Gary Roberts.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:44 Matt

2:44

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

Yeah but you're old

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:44 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:44

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

@John: He did, and while I'm not sure they suffer from the same problem, certainly, this is one of those cases where, a guy's young, and experience will make him better in the years to come. Boy definitely needs to be a lot mentally tougher, because he seriously choked in the last two series.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:44 Doogie

2:44

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

Maybe he is like the Pens team as a whole 2 steps forward, one step back. They get smoked by Ott last year and come to the SC finals this year. Malkin was transparent last year and this year was great until the Flyers series

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:44 Blackcapricorn

2:44

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

You also have to consider that the Wings were in a weird transition at the time of Datsyuk's playoff woes: Despite what the Captain said, it wasn't quite Pavel's team yet, but it was less and less Stevie Y's team. I'd chalk it up to that weird limbo as hurting his chances.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:44 Kristopher Arseneault

2:45

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

When did Blake start? 1991? 1992? I know I remember him as a youngster on that '93 Kings team that lost to Montreal.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Doogie

2:45

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

I agree with Matt. I think they are going to need to rebuild a little bit after getting picked apart in Free Agency. It's going to be at least a year or two. Meanwhile, teams like Washington don't really need to rebuild and are only getting better.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Kristopher Arseneault

2:45

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

My first memory of him is, I believe, in a Kings-Flames playoff series.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:45

[Comment From Earl SleekEarl Sleek: ]

It probably is more depressing to be a Kings fan watching Rob Blake end his career with the current team.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Earl Sleek

2:45

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Speaking of playoff under-performers, insane turnaround for Marty Turco the last two seasons.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:45

[Comment From BillBill: ]

Why does Berry Melrose seem to be so down on the Red Wings?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Bill

2:45

Matt:

Assuming that the Caps don't start the year with Olaf Kolzig as their #1 goalie, I think they're the team to beat in the East.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:45 Matt

2:46

James Mirtle:

he's getting ready to face them in the finals next season with the Lightning

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:46 James Mirtle

2:46

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

Yep, I was right - 1989-90 he came out of college at the end of the year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:46 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:46

James Mirtle:

Kolzig left the Caps

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:46 James Mirtle

2:46

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

Ahahaha

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:46 Kristopher Arseneault

2:46

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

My mistake. He joined the Kings for the 1990 playoffs. (http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php3?pid%5B%5D=415)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:46 Doogie

2:47

[Comment From chasechase: ]

the caps will be good, but pitt will still be the team to beat

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 chase

2:47

James Mirtle:

I find it really difficult to predict much of anything for Pittsburgh next year

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 James Mirtle

2:47

James Mirtle:

July 1 is going to be interesting this season

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 James Mirtle

2:47

[Comment From chasechase: ]

true, it will be a different looking team

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 chase

2:47

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Montreal will be interesting to watch too...

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 Alex LV

2:47

Matt:

James, you know they'll be pretty good... they have two awesome players, and plenty of other young decent ones

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:47 Matt

2:48

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

And the East is about neck and neck with the American Hockey League.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:48 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:48

James Mirtle:

true, but does that mean they're fifth in the conference, or a powerhouse again? I think we need to see their cast

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:48 James Mirtle

2:48

[Comment From chasechase: ]

but i still don't feel like it will be that different. although it might not happen, i realy do feel like some guys will take a bit less to stay

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:48 chase

2:48

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

Speaking of the East, did you guys talk about Montreal yet? I'm really not sure where they're gonna land next year. That face-plant by Price might not be a long-term concern, but in the short-term...yee.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:48 Doogie

2:49

James Mirtle:

Montreal shocked me with the year they had; I wouldn't be surprised to see them step back big

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:49 James Mirtle

2:49

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

Alex LV brings up a good point - Will the Habs continue their rise? (please no) or will they return to their normal 7th and below performance (please)?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:49 Pension Plan Puppets

2:49

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Any reason in particular not to pick Montreal to win the East? Lots of improving youth at all positions.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:49 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:49

Matt:

Kovalev can't possibly repeat what he did this season on the PP, can he?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:49 Matt

2:50

Matt:

MTL will probably still be good though. And they get to play the Sens and Leafs 6 times each, so that'll help

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:50 Matt

2:50

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

I was surprised that he was able to do it again without Souray.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:50 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:50

Matt:

Do we foresee any big trades in the next 2-3 weeks?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:50 Matt

2:51

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

Apparently THIS IS THE YEAR that Lowe is gonna pull of a 3 for 1

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:51 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:51

Matt:

riiiiiiight

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:51 Matt

2:52

Matt:

Who has an RFA they can't afford? Anyone besides Corey Perry? (If SNied and Selanne come back)

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:52 Matt

2:53

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

It's hard to see any big trades at the moment, to be honest. Too many teams with lots of cap room and nobody wants to trade their stars so longas they can afford them.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:53 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:53

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

You know who I think was better than their record this year? TBL. If they add a goalie for next year somehow...man.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:53 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:54

Matt:

"Too many teams with lots of cap room" -- this is what makes me think the Flames can move Aucoin, or maybe even Warrener.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:54 Matt

2:54

Matt:

What, TB will vault up to 13th?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:54 Matt

2:54

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

They actually outshot their opposition this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:54 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:55

James Mirtle:

time to wrap er up guys, sorry

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 James Mirtle

2:55

James Mirtle:

we'll get something together with more planning in the future

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 James Mirtle

2:55

James Mirtle:

a July 1 conference would be good

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 James Mirtle

2:55

Matt:

Alright. Thanks for having me. Go Flames.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Matt

2:55

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

.885 save percentage.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:55

[Comment From chasechase: ]

i watched every pitt game this season and I have never seen such a "team" that pitt has. they are so incredibly close and just gel together. that doesn't happen every year. i can easily say this is the best "meshing" team I have ever seen

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 chase

2:55

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

Lots of overachieving youth too

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Pension Plan Puppets

2:55

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

Montreal seems like it was a lot like Buffalo the year previous: An overachieving, "feel-good" story that couldn't keep up with the pressures of the Post-Season.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Kristopher Arseneault

2:55

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

@Matt: I don't know. I think Kovalev pretty much plays as well as he wants, so his motivation is an ongoing concern. If he's still excited by the kids around him, I think he'll still be pretty good, body permitting.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Doogie

2:55

[Comment From chasechase: ]

i think that kovy will have an even bigger season next year

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 chase

2:55

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

I'd be more concerned about the goaltending situation than anything else.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Doogie

2:55

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

Kovalev could score 100 points ... or 40

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Borris Jerome

2:55

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

@Tyler: that actually begs the question of how much of MTL's power-play success was Souray and how much was the guys setting him up. Certainly, he was no great shakes in a small sample size in Edmonton this year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Doogie

2:55

[Comment From Pension Plan PuppetsPension Plan Puppets: ]

What? The sens owned the Habs and the Leafs broke even despite some ridiculous performances by Price. They better not be counting on those games for points

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Pension Plan Puppets

2:55

Tyler@mc79hockey.com:

Thanks again Mirtle...try to tone down the Canucks bias on your site.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Tyler@mc79hockey.com

2:55

[Comment From BlackcapricornBlackcapricorn: ]

have there been any big trades in this interim period, don't GM's usually batten down the hatches till 7/1?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:55 Blackcapricorn

2:56

[Comment From Leanne@openicehitsLeanne@openicehits: ]

Surely there'll be big trades with the draft as deep as it's supposedd to be this year..

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Leanne@openicehits

2:56

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

In fairness to Lowe, he's done it before... once.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:56

James Mirtle:

heh Canucks bias?

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 James Mirtle

2:56

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

Who could be traded of significance? Jokinen? Martin is never gonna pull such a move

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Alex LV

2:56

[Comment From Kristopher ArseneaultKristopher Arseneault: ]

Matt: Depends on how many guys get signed up quickly. I don't think so, because a lot of good talent might be hitting the Free Agent market.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Kristopher Arseneault

2:56

[Comment From DoogieDoogie: ]

@Tyler: Well, last time he did it, it worked out okay...for that year.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Doogie

2:56

[Comment From Borris JeromeBorris Jerome: ]

I have this weird feeling that the Canucks are going to make a big trade splash in the off season ... either the Sedins or Luongo (dare I say) ... not because it makes sense, but because Gillis just scares me

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Borris Jerome

2:56

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Keep dreaming on that Warrener trade...

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:56

[Comment From Jonathan@CoppernblueJonathan@Coppernblue: ]

Tampa Bay has been a better team since the lockout than they've shown- they haven't had a goalie since then.

Thursday June 5, 2008 2:56 Jonathan@Coppernblue

2:56

[Comment From Alex LVAlex LV: ]

awesome chat session guys! I love it