The trade deadline has come and gone, and so with that it is time to look back on each trade and determine, on paper, which team won the deal. In part two of my deadline fallout I will take a look at each individual deal that happened and give my two cents on whether or not it helped the teams involved or not.
Wade Belak (Toronto) for 5th Round Pick (Florida)
Analysis: Belak does little more than fight, so I don’t really see why Florida wanted him. He was worth a late pick at best. As Toronto was looking to stock up picks and prospects Fletcher was going to get whatever he could for an expendable player like Belak.
Winner: Toronto
Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis (Atlanta) for Erik Christenssen, Colby Armstrong, Angelo Esposito and a 1st round pick (Pittsburgh)
Analysis: Pittsburgh gets the biggest name on the market and a winger for Crosby and Atlanta gets four building blocks for the future. The chances of Pittsburgh being able to resign Hossa with Crosby’s new deal beginning next year plus Malkin due one the following, are quite slim making him a rental. However, he provides a big boost to an already potent offense. Atlanta recoups some of what they lost in bad deadline deals last year, getting two young players to help now, plus a once highly touted prospect in Esposito and what will amount to a late round pick.
Winner: Atlanta
Cristobol Huet (Montreal) for 2nd round pick in 2009 (Washington)
Analysis: With the aging Kolzig and no one in the system the Caps needed a goalie of the future, and the got it in Huet for a mere second round pick. Number one goalies never go for so little, even when the goalie market is low. Caps make out like bandits and Montreal takes a big risk in handing their cup hopes to a rookie goalie for the playoffs.
Winner: Washington
Brad Stuart (LA) for a 2nd and 4th round picks (Detroit)
Analysis: Though not having a stellar year, Stuart is reliable in both ends. The price was reasonable and the Wings needed someone to replace their four injured defenseman, and when they come back they will have additional depth. Stuart is a UFA at years end so there is a chance LA would have lost him for nothing so they got what they could. It should work out for both teams.
Winner: Even
Brad Richards and Johan Holmqvist (Tampa Bay) for Mike Smith, Jussi Jokinen, Jeff Halpern and a 4th round pick (Dallas)
Analysis: Tampa needed to rid themselves of salary and were able to get Richards to waive his NTC. Dallas gets a top flight center that will be able to replace the aging Modano and lighten the load on the older players. Tampa gets a large contract off the books and gets a young goalie and forward depth that they desperately need. Despite the fact people say it’s heavily in favor of Dallas, they neglect to mention Richards deal is still a cap killer. Though both teams got what they needed, Richards is still a very good player moved out of necessity, so Dallas gets the edge.
Winner: Dallas
Adam Foote (Columbus) for conditional 1st round pick and a 4th round pick (Colorado)
Analysis: Colorado brings back another member of their previous cup winning team in Foote (Forsberg being the other) and though aging is still rugged and reliable. Columbus couldn’t come to terms with the blue liner and was forced to deal him rather than losing him for nothing, something Foote sounded upset about. The price for an old an injured defenseman though was a bit high, even if it is conditional.
Winner: Even
Hal Gill (Toronto) for a 2nd in '08 and a 5th in '09 (Pittsburgh)
Analysis: Pittsburgh needed a big, physical defenseman to clear the crease and Gill fits that bill. Though nothing special he is better than some of the Pens other options. Still a second and fifth is a high price for a guy another team was trying to unload for cap space.
Winner: Toronto
Jean Sebastian Aubin (LA) for 7th round pick (Anaheim)
Analysis: A pure depth move, for a pick that more than likely will amount to nothing.
Winner: Even
Christian Backman (St. Louis) for a 4th round pick (New York Rangers)
Analysis: Backman adds a physical blue line presence the Rangers don’t have much along with a stay at home presence they also lack. St Louis had an abundance of defensemen that were becoming UFA’s so were looking to get something for them. I think New York gets more of what they needed though.
Winner: New York
Sergei Fedorov (Columbus) for Teddy Ruth (Washington)
Analysis: A stay at home defenseman that was drafted in the second round in 2007, Ruth doesn’t seem to be on many people’s radars. Though Fedorov has lost a step or five it’s hard to imagine this was all he could fetch. Washington gets a center to help out Ovechkin and adds veteran experience as they push for the playoffs while Columbus gets pretty much nothing.
Winner: Washington
Alexandre Giroux for Joe Motzko
Analysis: Pretty much a minor league swap, no real advantage for either team.
Winner: Even
Chris Simon (New York Islanders) for a 6th round pick (Minnesota)
Analysis: Minnesota already had Derek Boogaard and Todd Fedoruk, yet somehow saw the need to trade for Simon who carries a ton of baggage. Mindless deal and a waste of a 6th, and 6th’s usually aren’t considered a waste.
Winner: New York
Bryce Salvador (St. Louis) for Cam Janssen (New Jersey)
Analysis: Salvador is a decent stay at home with a physical edge, Janssen is a goon that doesn’t have much real value and is only known for hitting Tomas Kaberle late. Geez, wonder who won this one?
Winner: New Jersey
Marc-Andre Bergeron (New York Islanders) for 3rd rounder (Anaheim)
Analysis: A depth move by Anaheim, but Bergeron has been much maligned the past few years by both Edmonton and New York fans, and for good reason. A third for him is too high for a guy that will bee more insurance than anything.
Winner: New York
Brian Campbell and 7th (Buffalo) for Steve Bernier and a 1st round pick (San Jose)
Analysis: San Jose finally got the high end defenseman they were looking for in Campbell. In return Buffalo gets a big young forward that has a bright future and a first round pick in a deep draft. Still, their failure to get more for the biggest name defenseman at the deadline where there weren’t a lot of them available tips this in San Jose’s favor.
Winner: San Jose
Chad Kilger (Toronto) for 3rd rounder (Florida)
Analysis: Kilger has actually played well for Toronto but still gets crap for some reason. He can add some secondary scoring to Florida along with decent defensive play. However, I don’t think he is worth a third.
Winner: Toronto
Martin Lapointe (Chicago) for 6th round pick (Ottawa)
Analysis: Lapointe adds good lower line depth and grit, and all Ottawa had to do was give up a sixth. Chicago shouldn’t have let him go for such a low price.
Winner: Ottawa
Josh Gratton, Patrick Sjostrom and David Leneveu and a conditional pick (Phoenix) for Marcel Hossa and Al Montoya (New York Rangers)
Analysis: Henrik Lundqvist’s extension sealed Montoya’s fate and his dealing was inevitable, the Rangers dealing him with the inconsistent Marcel Hossa for the similar but more consistent Sjostrom and tough guy Gratton. Leneveu, at one time the Yotes goalie of the future seems to be destined for backup duty anymore if that. Montoya will be in the minors for a while then play behind Bryzgalov until he is ready to take the reigns.
Winner: Phoenix
Jan Hlavac (Tampa Bay) for 7th round pick (Nashville)
Analysis: Hlavac has done little in recent years, and a 7th rounder isn’t much of anything. Sadly, a nothing-nothing swap.
Winner: Even
Matt Cooke (Vancouver) for Matt Pettinger (Washington)
Analysis: Cooke adds some grit and toughness to Washington’s playoff run and Vancouver gets someone who is a little more skilled.
Winner: Even
Andrew Ladd (Carolina) for Tuomo Ruutu (Chicago)
Analysis: A swap of talented young players, Ladd is more finesse and Ruutu more grit. Unfortunately Ruutu is often injured and it really hurts his effectiveness, so for that reason Chicago gets the edge in the deal.
Winner: Chicago
Vaclav Prospal (Tampa Bay) for Alexandre Picard and 2009 conditional pick (Philadelphia)
Analysis: I’ve never been a Prospal fan, seemingly only doing well when placed on Lecavalier’s wing (what a surprise). Still he’s not bad and will help offset the losses of Richards and Gagne for extended periods. Tampa reportedly couldn’t come to terms so got what they could in a young defenseman (something Feaster really wants) and a conditional 2nd or 3rd round pick.
Winner: Tampa Bay
Ruslan Salei (Florida) for Karlis Skrastins + 3rd rounder (Colorado)
Analysis: Florida seemed to want to trim some salary and traded the physical Salei for \ Skrastins and a third round pick. Salei will add good depth and experience to the Avs blue line and the now oft scratched Skrastins will get more playing time in Florida.
Winner: Colorado
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Deadline Speculation Accuracy
The deadline has come and gone and all of us hockey fans are left to muddle in the wake of the trades. Some where good, some were bad, and as always everyone will argue over the big ones. This is the first part of a three part trade deadline follow up I will be doing. This first piece is on how well I fared in what I expected, second will be the trades themselves and an analysis, and finally the deadline awards. And I do apologize for cutting off the live trade posting mid afternoon, I had some personal things to take care of that had me away from the computer when a lot of things went down.
But without further adieu, here is part 1: how well I called things.
Marian Hossa, Atlanta Thrashers
What I said:
Contract talks seem to have completely failed meaning Atlanta is going to get what they can for him. Expect them to land a first round pick and a young player or two in return. Hossa is the biggest name and definitely an impact player so his value will be high.
How I fared:
Hossa was dealt, and for quite the load landing Armstrong, Christensen, Esposito and a 1st from the Penguins. Got this one, but it was obvious.
Bobby Holik, Atlanta Thrashers
What I said:
Holik is a UFA at the end of the year and whether or not he gets dealt will depend on how likely Waddell thinks the Thrashers will make the playoffs. He won’t get them a lot, but if they think they cant go far (which I don’t think they can), they should get what they can for him.
How I fared:
I thought they would deal him, but either they couldn’t get anything or Waddell believes they will make the playoffs. Wrong here.
Mats Sundin, Tornto Maple Leafs
What I said:
He’s stated he wont waive his NTC, so he wont be going anywhere
How I fared:
No credit for what we already knew.
Tomas Kaberle, Toronto Maple Leafs
What I said:
He’s their best dman, but his NTC doesn’t kick in until next year. For his price and what he brings I think Fletcher is smart enough to keep him around.
How I fared:
Got this right, but Fletcher’s comments in his presser seem to indicate he was trying to deal someone, maybe Kaberle. We won’t know for sure.
Bryan McCabe, Toronto Maple Leafs
What I said:
With multiple years on his deal remaining and a no movement clause, I don’t expect him to be going anywhere.
How I fared:
Was right here, but I don’t think anyone really expected him to be moved out.
Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning
What I said:
Richards have given Jay Feaster a list of teams he would accept a trade to and that means the ball is rolling. Whether or not it will keep going is another story. The Richards contract was a mistake from the get go, another idiotic move by Feaster in giving in to an agents demands. Now the Lightning have little depth and their only chance to recover is to offload one of the big 3, Richards having the biggest salary and currently the worst play. If Feaster can get a decent deal, and Richards waives his NTC, this will happen, but it is really the latter that is the big question.
How I fared:
It happened, though admittedly I didn’t think it was.
Dan Boyle, Tampa bay Lightning
What I said:
Rumor is Boyle is seeking Scott Niedermayer money. If he truly thinks he will get that he vastly over rates himself. Still, with new ownership plus lagging far behind in the playoff race expect the Lightning to deal the defenseman for young players and free up salary to sign some guys in the off season.
How I fared:
Well I once again under estimated Feaster’s stupidity (somehow despite constantly calling him an idiot I somehow keep doing this) and he gave Boyle Niedermayer money. Was pretty far off here.
Vaclav Prospal, Tampa Bay Lightning
What I said:
Apparently far apart on contract talks, and almost out of contention, expect Feaster to get what he can for Prospal.
How I fared:
Pretty much spot on with Prospal being dealt for a mediocre defensive prospect and a conditional pick.
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers
What I said:
Things don’t look too good for Jagr returning to new York after this year for various reasons, but his value for the playoffs is too great to get rid of. He will be with the blue shirts for the remainder of the year.
How I fared:
There was no rumors about him at all, so I got this one right.
Adam Foote, Columbus Blue Jackets
What I said:
As mentioned earlier he has an NTC and doesn’t seem to want to waive it. If he doesn’t the Jackets are missing out on a big return because Foote is the kind of player teams love to get at the deadline. I expect him to not waive it and stay put.
How I fared:
Wrong. Apparently last minute negotiations failed and he agreed to waive it, but regardless, I’m still wrong.
Sergei Federov, Columbus Blue Jackets
What I said:
He hasn’t been the same since he left Detroit but his experience can bring a good return. No way the jackets will keep him at his current deal so I expect for him to off loaded for whatever they can get for him.
How I fared:
I expected some picks, not just a below average prospect. I was right, but I didn’t think the return would eb that low.
Rob Blake, LA Kings
What I said:
Like Foote he seems to be intent on not waiving his NTC. He likes LA and doesn’t mind being on a rebuilding team. Also like foot that is somewhat bad as the Kings can command a lot for him. I don’t think he will waive his clause, and I expect him to resign with the Kings for a lesser price in the off season.
How I fared:
Got this one.
Ladislav Nagy, LA Kings
What I said:
Nagy hasn’t done that well since the lockout and his stock continues to drop. LA will move him just to gain some assets, but don’t expect it to be much for this fading forward.
How I fared:
Apparently zero interest in him around the league, even for teams looking for a minimal boost. How far he has fallen. Missed this one.
Brad Stuart, LA Kings
What I said:
Stuart hasn’t done that well for the Kings, but hasn’t been bad. As defensemen are a hot commodity this time of year, I wont be surprised if he is dealt, or if the Kings keep him to sign him for another year or two.
How I fared:
I can’t get credit for saying a deal would go either way.
Martin Havlat, Chicago Blackhawks
What I said:
His salary and injury history make this talented player all but tradable. I don’t see anyone taking a risk on paying a guy $6mm a year for half a season
How I fared:
Correct. They did unload Ruutu though who I considered putting on this list but didn’t. Feel free to give me a scratch for that if you want.
Glen Murray, Boston Bruins
What I said:
Every year his name pops up. Look, he’s aging, he’s injured and his production keeps dropping. As long as he has a year remaining on his contract he’s not going anywhere because no one is dumb enough to take him (with Mike Milbury gone and Feaster having no room for him).
How I fared:
Dead on.
Mike Comrie, New York Islanders
What I said:
The Isles like Comrie and he has played well there. Expect them to try and sign him long term
How I fared:
I was right they would keep and sign, but I was wrong about the length. But since this was based on whether or not I thought he would get dealt, I’ll give myself a correct here.
Ollie Jokinen, Florida Panthers
What I said:
People always ignore the fact that Jokinen likes Florida and signed a long term deal and passed on free agency two years ago. He’s not moving, get over it rumor mongers
How I fared:
Against spot on, no rumors of him being dealt surfaced.
Brian Campbell, Buffalo Sabres
What I said:
Negotions failed to sign the blue liner to a long term deal, and past history indicated Buffalo wont be able to sign him in the off season. Campbell will most likely be the big name defenseman moved at this deadline.
How I fared:
It was a pretty easy one given Buffalo’s trend since the lockout.
John Michael Liles, Colorado AvalancheWhat I said:
As long as the Avs think they can make the playoffs he will be staying put, even if it seems he is already gone after this year.
How I fared:
I was right.
Alex Tanguay and Kristen Huselius, Calgary FlamesWhat I said:
Honestly, do we really think Sutter isn’t going to try and win it all and keep his big guns? I didn’t think so.
How I fared:
Can’t get credit for Tanguay as Sutter did say he won’t be trading him, but I guess I can get some credit for Huselius staying put.
All in all I faired pretty well. Granted since the cap era began deals are a lot easier to call, but still I didn’t a pretty good job. Check back later this week for part two where I analyze all the deadline day deals.
-Jordan
But without further adieu, here is part 1: how well I called things.
Marian Hossa, Atlanta Thrashers
What I said:
Contract talks seem to have completely failed meaning Atlanta is going to get what they can for him. Expect them to land a first round pick and a young player or two in return. Hossa is the biggest name and definitely an impact player so his value will be high.
How I fared:
Hossa was dealt, and for quite the load landing Armstrong, Christensen, Esposito and a 1st from the Penguins. Got this one, but it was obvious.
Bobby Holik, Atlanta Thrashers
What I said:
Holik is a UFA at the end of the year and whether or not he gets dealt will depend on how likely Waddell thinks the Thrashers will make the playoffs. He won’t get them a lot, but if they think they cant go far (which I don’t think they can), they should get what they can for him.
How I fared:
I thought they would deal him, but either they couldn’t get anything or Waddell believes they will make the playoffs. Wrong here.
Mats Sundin, Tornto Maple Leafs
What I said:
He’s stated he wont waive his NTC, so he wont be going anywhere
How I fared:
No credit for what we already knew.
Tomas Kaberle, Toronto Maple Leafs
What I said:
He’s their best dman, but his NTC doesn’t kick in until next year. For his price and what he brings I think Fletcher is smart enough to keep him around.
How I fared:
Got this right, but Fletcher’s comments in his presser seem to indicate he was trying to deal someone, maybe Kaberle. We won’t know for sure.
Bryan McCabe, Toronto Maple Leafs
What I said:
With multiple years on his deal remaining and a no movement clause, I don’t expect him to be going anywhere.
How I fared:
Was right here, but I don’t think anyone really expected him to be moved out.
Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning
What I said:
Richards have given Jay Feaster a list of teams he would accept a trade to and that means the ball is rolling. Whether or not it will keep going is another story. The Richards contract was a mistake from the get go, another idiotic move by Feaster in giving in to an agents demands. Now the Lightning have little depth and their only chance to recover is to offload one of the big 3, Richards having the biggest salary and currently the worst play. If Feaster can get a decent deal, and Richards waives his NTC, this will happen, but it is really the latter that is the big question.
How I fared:
It happened, though admittedly I didn’t think it was.
Dan Boyle, Tampa bay Lightning
What I said:
Rumor is Boyle is seeking Scott Niedermayer money. If he truly thinks he will get that he vastly over rates himself. Still, with new ownership plus lagging far behind in the playoff race expect the Lightning to deal the defenseman for young players and free up salary to sign some guys in the off season.
How I fared:
Well I once again under estimated Feaster’s stupidity (somehow despite constantly calling him an idiot I somehow keep doing this) and he gave Boyle Niedermayer money. Was pretty far off here.
Vaclav Prospal, Tampa Bay Lightning
What I said:
Apparently far apart on contract talks, and almost out of contention, expect Feaster to get what he can for Prospal.
How I fared:
Pretty much spot on with Prospal being dealt for a mediocre defensive prospect and a conditional pick.
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers
What I said:
Things don’t look too good for Jagr returning to new York after this year for various reasons, but his value for the playoffs is too great to get rid of. He will be with the blue shirts for the remainder of the year.
How I fared:
There was no rumors about him at all, so I got this one right.
Adam Foote, Columbus Blue Jackets
What I said:
As mentioned earlier he has an NTC and doesn’t seem to want to waive it. If he doesn’t the Jackets are missing out on a big return because Foote is the kind of player teams love to get at the deadline. I expect him to not waive it and stay put.
How I fared:
Wrong. Apparently last minute negotiations failed and he agreed to waive it, but regardless, I’m still wrong.
Sergei Federov, Columbus Blue Jackets
What I said:
He hasn’t been the same since he left Detroit but his experience can bring a good return. No way the jackets will keep him at his current deal so I expect for him to off loaded for whatever they can get for him.
How I fared:
I expected some picks, not just a below average prospect. I was right, but I didn’t think the return would eb that low.
Rob Blake, LA Kings
What I said:
Like Foote he seems to be intent on not waiving his NTC. He likes LA and doesn’t mind being on a rebuilding team. Also like foot that is somewhat bad as the Kings can command a lot for him. I don’t think he will waive his clause, and I expect him to resign with the Kings for a lesser price in the off season.
How I fared:
Got this one.
Ladislav Nagy, LA Kings
What I said:
Nagy hasn’t done that well since the lockout and his stock continues to drop. LA will move him just to gain some assets, but don’t expect it to be much for this fading forward.
How I fared:
Apparently zero interest in him around the league, even for teams looking for a minimal boost. How far he has fallen. Missed this one.
Brad Stuart, LA Kings
What I said:
Stuart hasn’t done that well for the Kings, but hasn’t been bad. As defensemen are a hot commodity this time of year, I wont be surprised if he is dealt, or if the Kings keep him to sign him for another year or two.
How I fared:
I can’t get credit for saying a deal would go either way.
Martin Havlat, Chicago Blackhawks
What I said:
His salary and injury history make this talented player all but tradable. I don’t see anyone taking a risk on paying a guy $6mm a year for half a season
How I fared:
Correct. They did unload Ruutu though who I considered putting on this list but didn’t. Feel free to give me a scratch for that if you want.
Glen Murray, Boston Bruins
What I said:
Every year his name pops up. Look, he’s aging, he’s injured and his production keeps dropping. As long as he has a year remaining on his contract he’s not going anywhere because no one is dumb enough to take him (with Mike Milbury gone and Feaster having no room for him).
How I fared:
Dead on.
Mike Comrie, New York Islanders
What I said:
The Isles like Comrie and he has played well there. Expect them to try and sign him long term
How I fared:
I was right they would keep and sign, but I was wrong about the length. But since this was based on whether or not I thought he would get dealt, I’ll give myself a correct here.
Ollie Jokinen, Florida Panthers
What I said:
People always ignore the fact that Jokinen likes Florida and signed a long term deal and passed on free agency two years ago. He’s not moving, get over it rumor mongers
How I fared:
Against spot on, no rumors of him being dealt surfaced.
Brian Campbell, Buffalo Sabres
What I said:
Negotions failed to sign the blue liner to a long term deal, and past history indicated Buffalo wont be able to sign him in the off season. Campbell will most likely be the big name defenseman moved at this deadline.
How I fared:
It was a pretty easy one given Buffalo’s trend since the lockout.
John Michael Liles, Colorado AvalancheWhat I said:
As long as the Avs think they can make the playoffs he will be staying put, even if it seems he is already gone after this year.
How I fared:
I was right.
Alex Tanguay and Kristen Huselius, Calgary FlamesWhat I said:
Honestly, do we really think Sutter isn’t going to try and win it all and keep his big guns? I didn’t think so.
How I fared:
Can’t get credit for Tanguay as Sutter did say he won’t be trading him, but I guess I can get some credit for Huselius staying put.
All in all I faired pretty well. Granted since the cap era began deals are a lot easier to call, but still I didn’t a pretty good job. Check back later this week for part two where I analyze all the deadline day deals.
-Jordan
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Trade: Matt Pettinger for Matt Cooke
Caps get a little more gritty Canucks get a little more skilled. Even deal.
Trade: Foote to Avs
As my esteemed blogger Omkar said "What's up 2001?"
CBJ will get a conditional 1st round pick
CBJ will get a conditional 1st round pick
Trade: Lapointe to Ottawa for a 6th
Quite a steal for Ottawa. They get an experince defensive forward with some grit for basically nothing.
Trade: Ruslan Salei for Karlis Skrastins and a 3rd
Colorado continues to gear up for a playoff run by acquiring the rugges Salei. Back to Florida goes karlis Skrastins and a 3rd, Martin obvisouly going for the assets.
Trade: Tuomo Ruutu for Jordan Ladd
The oft injured Ruutu is shipped to Carolina with Ladd going back to Chicago in a straight up deal for young players. Dont get a whole lot of these, but I've giving this one to the Hawks as Ruutu's injury problems really limit his effectiveness.
Trade: Huet to Caps for a 2nd
Crisotbal Huet has been dealt to teh Capitals for a second round pick.
This is mind boggling. Huet is the starter and has playoff experience. I cant fathom why Gainey would let him go, even if hes afraid of losing him for nothing.
This is mind boggling. Huet is the starter and has playoff experience. I cant fathom why Gainey would let him go, even if hes afraid of losing him for nothing.
Trade: Brad Richards waives NTC to go to Dallas
Richard and goalie Johan Holmqvist have been dealt to Dallas for goalie Mike Smith, and forwards Jeff Halpern and Jussi Jokinen
This actually isnt a bad deal for Tampa. Smith can help the goalie situation and is still young and improving, while Jokinen and Halpern give the Bolts some much needed depth while freeing up some cap space.
Also to note, I will do more thurough analysis in the coming days of all the trades
This actually isnt a bad deal for Tampa. Smith can help the goalie situation and is still young and improving, while Jokinen and Halpern give the Bolts some much needed depth while freeing up some cap space.
Also to note, I will do more thurough analysis in the coming days of all the trades
Trade: Brian Campbell to San Jose for Bernier and a 1st
To nobodys surprise Buffalo has moved Campbell rather than lose gim for nothing. In return they get young forward Steve Bernier and a 1st from San Jose, who has been looking for a top flight defenseman since last year.
Pretty good deal for both, but if San Jose keeps campbell and what that 1st becomes will decide the winner.
Pretty good deal for both, but if San Jose keeps campbell and what that 1st becomes will decide the winner.
Trade: Belak to Florida for a 5th
Fletcher has begin his supposed dismantling by sending tough guy Belak to Florida for a pick. I've never been a fan of Belak but this is probably his max value. A pretty even trade, but I'd give a slight edge to Toronto since Belak cant do anything but fight.
Trade: Cam Janssen for Bryce Salvador
The first trade of the day comes from St Louis and New Jersey. Jersey dealt enforcer Cam Janssen for physical blue liner and UFA to be Bryce Salvador.
Jersey wins this deal hands down, its not even close. I cant imagine that Pleaus wasnt getting a better offer than this. Of course I dont think Pleau is a good gm so I shouldnt be that surprised. Terrible move by St Louis.
Jersey wins this deal hands down, its not even close. I cant imagine that Pleaus wasnt getting a better offer than this. Of course I dont think Pleau is a good gm so I shouldnt be that surprised. Terrible move by St Louis.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Forsberg, Prospal, Jackman and Boyle
With less than 24 hours to go we've got three major things that have happened.
First is Peter Forsberg (or Floppa for constantly flopping on the ice on the ice and diving) has returned to the Colorado Avalanche for the remainder of the year. It will gives the Avs, an injury riddled team fighting for a playoff spot, a much needed talent and emotional boost.
Next up the Flyers have acquired Vaclav Prospal from Tampa for Alxandre Picard and a conditional 2nd or 3rd round pick. Some say this is a stealf or Philly, but frankly I dont think Prospal is much without a good center like Lecavalier feeding him the puck. Tampa GM Jay Feaster was probably more interesting in a young dman, something he is desperate for. He gave up a first lst year to Anaheim for one at the deadline. I suspect Prospal wont be with the FLyers next year for cap reasons.
Barrett Jackman also resigned with the Blues for 4 years $14.4mm. About what he was expected to get as being injury prone has brought down his value. Still he will continue to be a valuable member of the Blues defense.
Finally Tampa resigned defenseman Dan Boyle to a contract worth $40mm over 6 years ($6.66mm a year). This just further jsutifies that Jay Feaster is one fo the worst GM's in the league. Boyle is good, but Scott Niedermayer money good? Nope. I;m sorry, but this is overpayment big time for him. Ironically it seems Tampa will be moving Brad Richards in order to free up his $7.8mm cap hit that Feaster overpaid for, and now he goes and does the same thing with a defenseman.
Advice to new Tampa owners: GET RID OF FEASTER!
Also, a contract of this size pretty much guarantees Brian Campbell is done in Buffalo. Look for his return to be quite big.
-Jordan
First is Peter Forsberg (or Floppa for constantly flopping on the ice on the ice and diving) has returned to the Colorado Avalanche for the remainder of the year. It will gives the Avs, an injury riddled team fighting for a playoff spot, a much needed talent and emotional boost.
Next up the Flyers have acquired Vaclav Prospal from Tampa for Alxandre Picard and a conditional 2nd or 3rd round pick. Some say this is a stealf or Philly, but frankly I dont think Prospal is much without a good center like Lecavalier feeding him the puck. Tampa GM Jay Feaster was probably more interesting in a young dman, something he is desperate for. He gave up a first lst year to Anaheim for one at the deadline. I suspect Prospal wont be with the FLyers next year for cap reasons.
Barrett Jackman also resigned with the Blues for 4 years $14.4mm. About what he was expected to get as being injury prone has brought down his value. Still he will continue to be a valuable member of the Blues defense.
Finally Tampa resigned defenseman Dan Boyle to a contract worth $40mm over 6 years ($6.66mm a year). This just further jsutifies that Jay Feaster is one fo the worst GM's in the league. Boyle is good, but Scott Niedermayer money good? Nope. I;m sorry, but this is overpayment big time for him. Ironically it seems Tampa will be moving Brad Richards in order to free up his $7.8mm cap hit that Feaster overpaid for, and now he goes and does the same thing with a defenseman.
Advice to new Tampa owners: GET RID OF FEASTER!
Also, a contract of this size pretty much guarantees Brian Campbell is done in Buffalo. Look for his return to be quite big.
-Jordan
Deadline Speculation
The trade deadline is about 24 hours away and all remains quiet on the front. Expect it to remain that way for the most part for a few reasons.
First that there aren’t as many big name UFA’s that will be changing hands this year. Last year there were quite a few, this year it’s paltry for ones that not are free agents and don’t have a no trade or movement clause. Guys like Adam Foote and Rob Blake would normally garner a bounty, but neither seem willing to waive their clauses so they’re taken out of talks.
Secondly how close the playoffs races are. There are few teams that are actually out of it right now, meaning most teams are buyers rather than sellers. That dries up the available pool even more.
Lastly is that last year showed the big name acquisitions had little impact on the teams they were dealt to. Bill Guerin and Todd Bertuzzi, two big names had little to no impact on their teams. This will make GM’s more wary about dealing for anyone in general with a high price.
But that’s not to say there won’t be any deals, and names continue to be thrown out there. So lets take a look at what big names could be moving on by tomorrow.
Marian Hossa, Atlanta Thrashers
Contract talks seem to have completely failed meaning Atlanta is going to get what they can for him. Expect them to land a first round pick and a young player or two in return. Hossa is the biggest name and definitely an impact player so his value will be high.
Bobby Holik, Atlanta Thrashers
Holik is a UFA at the end of the year and whether or not he gets dealt will depend on how likely Wadell thinks the Thrashers will make the playoffs. He wont get them a lot, but if they think they cant go far (which I don’t think they can), they should get what they can for him.
Mats Sundin, Tornto Maple Leafs
He’s stated he wont waive his NTC, so he wont be going anywhere
Tomas Kaberle, Toronto Maple Leafs
He’s their best dman, but his NTC doesn’t kick in until next year. For his price and what he brings I think Fletcher is smart enough to keep him around.
Bryan McCabe, Toronto Maple Leafs
With multiple years on his deal remaining and a no movement clause, Id ont expect him to be going anywhere.
Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning
Richards have given Jay Feaster a list of teams he would accept a trade to and that means the ball is rolling. Whether or not it will keep going is another story. The Richards contract was a mistake from the get go, another idiotic move by Feaster in giving in to an agents demands. Now the Lightning have little depth and their only chance to recover is to offload one of the big 3, Richards having the biggest salary and currently the worst play. If Feaster can get a decent deal, and Richards waives his NTC, this will happen, but it is really the latter that is the big question.
Dan Boyle, Tampa bay Lightning
Rumor is Boyle is seeking Scott Niedermayer money. If he truly thinks he will get that he vastly over rates himself. Still, with new ownership plus lagging far behind in the playoff race expect the Lightning to deal the defenseman for young players and free up salary to sign some guys in the off season.
Vaclav Prospal, Tampa Bay Lightning
Apparently far apart on contract talks, and almost out of contention, expect Feaster to get what he can for Prospal.
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers
Things don’t look too good for Jagr returning to new York after this year for various reasons, but his value for the playoffs is too great to get rid of. He will be with the blue shirts for the remainder of the year.
Adam Foote, Columbus Blue Jackets
As mentioned earlier he has an NTC and doesn’t seem to want to waive it. If he doesn’t the Jackets are missing out on a big return because Foote is the kind of player teams love to get at the deadline. I expect him to not waive it and stay put.
Sergei Federov, Columbus Blue Jackets
He hasn’t been the same since he left Detroit but his experience can bring a good return. No way the jackets will keep him at his current deal so I expect for him to off loaded for whatever they can get for him.
Rob Blake, LA Kings
Like Foote he seems to be intent on not waiving his NTC. He likes LA and doesn’t mind being on a rebuilding team. Also like foot that is somewhat bad as the Kings can command a lot for him. I don’t think he will waive his clause, and I expect him to resign with the Kings for a lesser price in the off season.
Ladislav Nagy, LA Kings
Nagy hasn’t done that well since the lockout and his stock continues to drop. LA will move him just to gain some assets, but don’t expect it to be much for this fading forward.
Brad Stuart, LA Kings
Stuart hasn’t done that well for the Kings, but hasn’t been bad. As defensemen are a hot commodity this time of year, I wont be surprised if he is dealt, or if the Kings keep him to sign him for another year or two.
Martin Havlat, Chicago Blackhawks
His salary and injury history make this talented player all but tradable. I don’t see anyone taking a risk on paying a guy $6mm a year for half a season
Glen Murray, Boston Bruins
Every year his name pops up. Look, he’s aging, he’s injured and his production keeps dropping. As long as he has a year remaining on his contract he’s not going anywhere because no one is dumb enough to take him (with Mike Milbury gone and Feaster having no room for him).
Mike Comrie, New York Islanders
The Isles like Comrie and he has played well there. Expect them to try and sign him long term
Ollie Jokinen, Florida Panthers
People always ignore the fact that Jokinen likes Florida and signed a long term deal and passed on free agency two years ago. He’s not moving, get over it rumor mongers
Brian Campbell, Buffalo Sabres
Negotions failed to sign the blue liner to a long term deal, and past history indicated Buffalo wont be able to sign him in the off season. Campbell will most likely be the big name defenseman moved at this deadline.
John Michael Liles, Colorado Avalanche
As long as the Avs think they can make the playoffs he will be staying put, even if it seems he is already gone after this year.
Alex Tanguay and Kristen Huselius, Calgary Flames
Honestly, do we really think Sutter isn’t going to try and win it all and keep his big guns? I didn’t think so.
-Jordan
First that there aren’t as many big name UFA’s that will be changing hands this year. Last year there were quite a few, this year it’s paltry for ones that not are free agents and don’t have a no trade or movement clause. Guys like Adam Foote and Rob Blake would normally garner a bounty, but neither seem willing to waive their clauses so they’re taken out of talks.
Secondly how close the playoffs races are. There are few teams that are actually out of it right now, meaning most teams are buyers rather than sellers. That dries up the available pool even more.
Lastly is that last year showed the big name acquisitions had little impact on the teams they were dealt to. Bill Guerin and Todd Bertuzzi, two big names had little to no impact on their teams. This will make GM’s more wary about dealing for anyone in general with a high price.
But that’s not to say there won’t be any deals, and names continue to be thrown out there. So lets take a look at what big names could be moving on by tomorrow.
Marian Hossa, Atlanta Thrashers
Contract talks seem to have completely failed meaning Atlanta is going to get what they can for him. Expect them to land a first round pick and a young player or two in return. Hossa is the biggest name and definitely an impact player so his value will be high.
Bobby Holik, Atlanta Thrashers
Holik is a UFA at the end of the year and whether or not he gets dealt will depend on how likely Wadell thinks the Thrashers will make the playoffs. He wont get them a lot, but if they think they cant go far (which I don’t think they can), they should get what they can for him.
Mats Sundin, Tornto Maple Leafs
He’s stated he wont waive his NTC, so he wont be going anywhere
Tomas Kaberle, Toronto Maple Leafs
He’s their best dman, but his NTC doesn’t kick in until next year. For his price and what he brings I think Fletcher is smart enough to keep him around.
Bryan McCabe, Toronto Maple Leafs
With multiple years on his deal remaining and a no movement clause, Id ont expect him to be going anywhere.
Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning
Richards have given Jay Feaster a list of teams he would accept a trade to and that means the ball is rolling. Whether or not it will keep going is another story. The Richards contract was a mistake from the get go, another idiotic move by Feaster in giving in to an agents demands. Now the Lightning have little depth and their only chance to recover is to offload one of the big 3, Richards having the biggest salary and currently the worst play. If Feaster can get a decent deal, and Richards waives his NTC, this will happen, but it is really the latter that is the big question.
Dan Boyle, Tampa bay Lightning
Rumor is Boyle is seeking Scott Niedermayer money. If he truly thinks he will get that he vastly over rates himself. Still, with new ownership plus lagging far behind in the playoff race expect the Lightning to deal the defenseman for young players and free up salary to sign some guys in the off season.
Vaclav Prospal, Tampa Bay Lightning
Apparently far apart on contract talks, and almost out of contention, expect Feaster to get what he can for Prospal.
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers
Things don’t look too good for Jagr returning to new York after this year for various reasons, but his value for the playoffs is too great to get rid of. He will be with the blue shirts for the remainder of the year.
Adam Foote, Columbus Blue Jackets
As mentioned earlier he has an NTC and doesn’t seem to want to waive it. If he doesn’t the Jackets are missing out on a big return because Foote is the kind of player teams love to get at the deadline. I expect him to not waive it and stay put.
Sergei Federov, Columbus Blue Jackets
He hasn’t been the same since he left Detroit but his experience can bring a good return. No way the jackets will keep him at his current deal so I expect for him to off loaded for whatever they can get for him.
Rob Blake, LA Kings
Like Foote he seems to be intent on not waiving his NTC. He likes LA and doesn’t mind being on a rebuilding team. Also like foot that is somewhat bad as the Kings can command a lot for him. I don’t think he will waive his clause, and I expect him to resign with the Kings for a lesser price in the off season.
Ladislav Nagy, LA Kings
Nagy hasn’t done that well since the lockout and his stock continues to drop. LA will move him just to gain some assets, but don’t expect it to be much for this fading forward.
Brad Stuart, LA Kings
Stuart hasn’t done that well for the Kings, but hasn’t been bad. As defensemen are a hot commodity this time of year, I wont be surprised if he is dealt, or if the Kings keep him to sign him for another year or two.
Martin Havlat, Chicago Blackhawks
His salary and injury history make this talented player all but tradable. I don’t see anyone taking a risk on paying a guy $6mm a year for half a season
Glen Murray, Boston Bruins
Every year his name pops up. Look, he’s aging, he’s injured and his production keeps dropping. As long as he has a year remaining on his contract he’s not going anywhere because no one is dumb enough to take him (with Mike Milbury gone and Feaster having no room for him).
Mike Comrie, New York Islanders
The Isles like Comrie and he has played well there. Expect them to try and sign him long term
Ollie Jokinen, Florida Panthers
People always ignore the fact that Jokinen likes Florida and signed a long term deal and passed on free agency two years ago. He’s not moving, get over it rumor mongers
Brian Campbell, Buffalo Sabres
Negotions failed to sign the blue liner to a long term deal, and past history indicated Buffalo wont be able to sign him in the off season. Campbell will most likely be the big name defenseman moved at this deadline.
John Michael Liles, Colorado Avalanche
As long as the Avs think they can make the playoffs he will be staying put, even if it seems he is already gone after this year.
Alex Tanguay and Kristen Huselius, Calgary Flames
Honestly, do we really think Sutter isn’t going to try and win it all and keep his big guns? I didn’t think so.
-Jordan
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Sens-Canes Swap Players
Yesterday we got the first big deal of the season when the Sens shipped Joe Corvo and Ben Eaves to the Hurricanes for Mike Commodore and Cory Stillman. This trade helps both teams, but for different reasons.
The Sens immediately get tougher as Commodore is a gritty defenseman and Stillman adds much needed secondary scoring touch. Both won a Stanley Cup with Carolina in 2006, and Commodore made the finals with Calgary in 2004 while Stillman, on the other side with Tampa won the cup, and both bring a wealth of playoffs experience. Plus, both are UFA's at the end of the year. That may sound like a detractor but remember, both Heatley and SPezza are getting big raises for next year plus the status of Wade Redden is unknown. By having two guys who are UFA's it allows GM Bryan Murray some wiggle room in the offseason.
The Canes get a young player in Eaves who can be a long term contributor to the team and continye to get better. Corvo helps fill their need for a puck moving blue liner something they have been starving for. Both are under contract after this year so both will spend multiple seasons with the Canes, making this a long term investment.
Immedtiately, the Sens win this one getting some good assets for a playoff run. In the long run though the Canes win as it is doubtful both Stillman and Commodore would resign with the Sens. Though if the Canes were able to bring back one or both of the guys they dealt it would definitely go to the Canes.
-Jordan
The Sens immediately get tougher as Commodore is a gritty defenseman and Stillman adds much needed secondary scoring touch. Both won a Stanley Cup with Carolina in 2006, and Commodore made the finals with Calgary in 2004 while Stillman, on the other side with Tampa won the cup, and both bring a wealth of playoffs experience. Plus, both are UFA's at the end of the year. That may sound like a detractor but remember, both Heatley and SPezza are getting big raises for next year plus the status of Wade Redden is unknown. By having two guys who are UFA's it allows GM Bryan Murray some wiggle room in the offseason.
The Canes get a young player in Eaves who can be a long term contributor to the team and continye to get better. Corvo helps fill their need for a puck moving blue liner something they have been starving for. Both are under contract after this year so both will spend multiple seasons with the Canes, making this a long term investment.
Immedtiately, the Sens win this one getting some good assets for a playoff run. In the long run though the Canes win as it is doubtful both Stillman and Commodore would resign with the Sens. Though if the Canes were able to bring back one or both of the guys they dealt it would definitely go to the Canes.
-Jordan
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Burnside on US Olympic GM Choice
In his February 5th column Scott Burnside said that of the four NHL GM’s that make up the USA committee, Don Waddell of Atlanta (and previous GM for the last Olympic games), Ray Shero of Pittsburgh, Brian Burke of Anaheim and David Poile of Nashville that the choice should be obvious as to which should take the reigns, and that is Brian Burke. Burnside is absolutely right.
He sites his reasons for Burke as his connections to US coaches and other GM’s and players plus, and to me more importantly, the fact that he is very aggressive and pushes for what he wants. He is fiery and passionate and has no qualms with earning the ire of others if it accomplishes his goal. That is exactly what is needed for this position. Burke has demonstrated his GM skills and accomplished much both working within limits (Vancouver) and when given more open and free reign control (Anaheim).
But for the sake of argument let’s take a look at the other candidates.
Dave Poile
Poile has been the Nashville GM since the team started and has done a good job building within. He is very patient and can scout talent well. But Poile has also had his hands tied a lot by dealing with an expansion team in a non-traditional market, no easy task. Poile though hasn’t been given much free reign at all and as he likes to stick with things for a while, may not be the best to pick a squad.
Ray Shero
Shero has proven to be a smart GM unwilling to blow his wad so to speak on deadline deals and free agent acquisitions. Like Poile who he worked with as an assistant GM until coming to Pittsburgh, he has much patience and a knack for understanding his players. Still he is rather inexperienced in the grand scheme of things being only a second year GM.
Don Waddell
I don’t hide my dislike for his GM abilities (or lack thereof), and it showed for the last Olympics. Waddell was more interested in having names on the roster, but unfortunately those names were mostly past their prime. The team comprised mostly of aging veterans and little youth or mid level talent, and it killed the US who had an extremely poor showing, and it wouldn’t be out of place to call it embarrassing. After his last showing, plus his continued mishandling of the Thrashers, frankly I don’t see how he is even on this committee.
So I must agree with Burnside that Brian Burke is the most logical choice. He values both youth and veteran talent and isn’t afraid to step on anyone’s toes to get things done right.
-Jordan
He sites his reasons for Burke as his connections to US coaches and other GM’s and players plus, and to me more importantly, the fact that he is very aggressive and pushes for what he wants. He is fiery and passionate and has no qualms with earning the ire of others if it accomplishes his goal. That is exactly what is needed for this position. Burke has demonstrated his GM skills and accomplished much both working within limits (Vancouver) and when given more open and free reign control (Anaheim).
But for the sake of argument let’s take a look at the other candidates.
Dave Poile
Poile has been the Nashville GM since the team started and has done a good job building within. He is very patient and can scout talent well. But Poile has also had his hands tied a lot by dealing with an expansion team in a non-traditional market, no easy task. Poile though hasn’t been given much free reign at all and as he likes to stick with things for a while, may not be the best to pick a squad.
Ray Shero
Shero has proven to be a smart GM unwilling to blow his wad so to speak on deadline deals and free agent acquisitions. Like Poile who he worked with as an assistant GM until coming to Pittsburgh, he has much patience and a knack for understanding his players. Still he is rather inexperienced in the grand scheme of things being only a second year GM.
Don Waddell
I don’t hide my dislike for his GM abilities (or lack thereof), and it showed for the last Olympics. Waddell was more interested in having names on the roster, but unfortunately those names were mostly past their prime. The team comprised mostly of aging veterans and little youth or mid level talent, and it killed the US who had an extremely poor showing, and it wouldn’t be out of place to call it embarrassing. After his last showing, plus his continued mishandling of the Thrashers, frankly I don’t see how he is even on this committee.
So I must agree with Burnside that Brian Burke is the most logical choice. He values both youth and veteran talent and isn’t afraid to step on anyone’s toes to get things done right.
-Jordan
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