I can say this, there is no such thing as a hockey off-season anymore.  I mean, we are into the middle of July and there have been about two slow hockey news days total since 2009 began.  So, I can’t say I was shocked to hear late last night that Dale Tallon had been fired by the Chicago Blackhawks.

Clearly Tallon’s mistake concerning qualifying offers to a set of players on his team (which included Cam Barker and Kris Versteeg) was the straw that broke the camel’s back.  One of the reasons I was not surprised by the news was because rumblings have been going on for a while (I believe Al Strachan started rumblings of possible discord in the Hawks front office on the Hot Stove late in the year) that Tallon may have been on thin ice. 

Now, I have to readily admit that I’ve been puzzled by many of Tallon’s moves.  While he made some great additions to the team’s young core, his attempt to augment the team’s young talent with a number of veteran players was not very successful.  The contracts given to Brian Campbell and Cristobal Huet have come back to bite the Hawks, never mind the funds needed to sign Cam Barker, Kris Versteeg, et. al, after the team’s qualifying disaster; and I didn’t even mention Dustin Byfuglien.

But while Tallon can be criticized for some moves, he did turn this team around.  He drafted Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, (even though they were high draft picks, he still selected them), traded litte to acquire the highly underrated Patrick Sharp, and re-signed Martin Havlat to a contract extension when things in Chicago weren’t exactly rosey.

My biggest question at the end of the day is: Why on earth did the Blackhawks organization make this move now?

People will respond to that by referring to the Barker and Versteeg contracts, however, that is not the issue in my opinion.  Instead, the issue really centers around Tallon being on such thin ice that his mistake resulted in his firing.  Clearly people within the Blackhawks management structure did not think Tallon was doing a great job because this mistake, while significant, does not seem to be the only reason he was fired.

So, if that is the case, then why not fire Dale Tallon prior to free agency?  To me, it seems odd that the organization would let the GM sign a player, Marian Hossa, to a twelve-year deal when they are hardly confident in his managing ability.  Additionally, the re-signings of Versteeg, Barker, et al, eat up a lot of cap room.  For a team that is going to have serious cap troubles next season, it makes little sense why you’d let the person who made the mistake, rectify it at his own volition.

All in all, I understand the Hawks firing Dale Tallon.  Each franchise has a vision, and clearly Tallon’s was not the same as what the Blackhawks had in mind.  However, if the team was this unhappy with Tallon, you have to wonder what took the Blackhawks so long to make this move?

Dale Tallon Firing

• When asked about signing an extension a little while ago, Dale Tallon didn’t seem too concerned about getting something done quicky.
• Tim Sassone has more on the firing, including the belief that Dale Tallon’s qualifying offer mistake played a big factor in his dismissal.
• The firing is somewhat surprising considering the team’s successful season in 2008/09.

Jacques Lemaire Hiring

• Larry Brooks thinks that the Devils’ hiring of Jacques Lemaire is a step backwards for the organization.
• Lou Lamoriello obviously disagrees with Brooks and thinks Lemaire is the right coach for this team.
• Lemaire’s hiring came along with a number of other former Devils players joining the Devils organization.
• Zach Parise cites Marian Gaborik’s offensive numbers when arguing that he doesn’t think Lemaire’s system will hold him back.
• “I never did close the door on coaching. I said my time in Minnesota is over,” said Lemaire.

Free Agency

• The Ducks have signed James Wisniewski to a one-year contract.
• Adding some depth to the roster, the Thrashers have signed Anthony Stewart and Noah Welch to contracts.
• The Hurricanes maintain interest in defenseman Dennis Seidenberg, writes Chip Alexander.
• The Stars have re-signed Aaron Gagnon to a one-year deal.
• The Panthers are interested in signing free agent forward Alex Tanguay.
• The Predators have re-signed Nolan Yonkman to a one-year contract.
• The Rangers have signed Ryan Callahan to two-year pact worth $4.6 million.
• The Capitals have re-signed Boyd Gordon to a one-year contract, worth less than $1 million.

Development Camps

• The Thrashers have high expectations for prospect Jeremy Morin.
• Grand Rapids Griffins coach Curt Fraser says that three Red Wings prospects have stood out so far at camp.
• John Tavares always wants to improve his game, so he will be able to get to the next level.
• Talk about an improbable road for Flyers prospect Rocco Carzo, writes Frank Seravalli.
• Bringing all the team’s prospects together is a great thing, says Wilkes-Barre Scranton coach Todd Reirden.
• Steven Stamkos was around the Lightning’s development camp last weekend and people were surprised with how much muscle he’s put on.
• It is fair to say the Capitals are loaded with prospects between the pipes.

Other News

• Gary Bettman has demanded a $10 million payment by Lightning owner Len Barrie by Friday to have the Lightning ownership situation remain status quo, writes Damian Cristodero.
• Sticking with Bettman, if the economy is bad, he hasn’t noticed, as the commissioner’s salary has actually increased.
• The NHL has finalized the Winter Classic location, as the Bruins and Flyers will play each other on New Year’s Day at Fenway Park.
• The Habs could be hosting an outdoor game at Olympic Stadium against Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals next season.
• Due to the economy, the Blue Jackets have put some cheap upper deck tickets on sale as season tickets.
• Even after losing some players this off-season, the Wings lack the obvious weakness that many other teams do, writes Helene St. James.
• The Oilers have announced the team’s pre-season schedule.
• The Ranges have traded Lauri Korpikoski to Phoenix for Enver Lisin.  After the deal, Larry Brooks expressed his lack of belief in the Rangers when they tout their top prospects.
• Judge Baum has rejected Jerry Moyes’s request for a Jerry Reinsdorf deposition.  “It’s the Phoenix Coyotes until somebody says otherwise,” said Judge Baum.
• Moose coach Scott Arniel has really good things to say about Canucks prospect Cody Hodgson.
• Speaking of Arniel, Tim Campbell has more details on his contract extension.

From Chicago Sun Times:

The Blackhawks fired general manager Dale Tallon late Monday and replaced him with assistant GM Stan Bowman, according to Comcast SportsNet. An official announcement is expected today.

Blackhawks spokespeople couldn’t be reached for comment.

Tallon last week took the blame for the Hawks’ failure to tender qualifying offers to eight restricted free agents on time. He was able to re-sign all of them, including forward Kris Versteeg and defenseman Cam Barker, but the mistake was a major embarrassment for the team.

For complete story, click here.

Well it appears that Hawks GM Dale Tallon couldn’t survive the debacle that resulted from the Hawks failure to tender qualifying offers. 

If this report is accurate (Hawks web site still has Tallon as GM, but in addition to the Chicago Sun Times, it is being reported by From the Rink’s James Mirtle as well as the Chicago Tribune) that this is now the Stan Bowman show.  The Chicago Tribune did a very informative piece on the possible new Interim GM of the Hawks back in May.  With his father as Senior Advisor (hockey operations), a capable coach in Joel Quenneville and an up and coming team, things should be very exciting and expectations will be quite high in the Windy City next season.

News and notes from around the Blogs:

• From the Rink: Looks like even when Leafs tickets are “free”, someone will try and turn a profit.
• Snapshots: George Malik re-examins pertinent CBA points: Are salary ‘rollbacks,’ caps on player contract lengths, and league bailout of its GM’s stupid mistakes on the horizon.
• mc79hockey:  Sticking with the CBA, apparently it isn’t fool proof.
• From the Rink:  Looks like Commish Bettman’s salary has hit the $7 million dollar mark.
• Slap Shot:  As Rich reported yesterday, Reggie Fleming passed away and Stu Hackel has a nice tribute to him.
• Five for Howling:  Another day in Court.  When will this pain end?
• On Frozen Blog: Discusses the loss of his hockey friends to retirement. 
• On the Forecheck:  The Preds have signed defenseman Nolan Yonkman to a one-year, two-way contract worth $500,000 on the NHL level and $115,000 on the AHL level.
• Cult of Hockey: Gabe Desjardins looksat two different ways of measuring quality of competition.
• Eyes on the Prize: Habs sign big Swedish centerman Andreas Engqvist.
• Four Habs Fans:  Introduce us to Andreas Engqvist’s very attractive girlfriend.
• Lowetide: Can Marc Pouliot establish himself as a top 9 forward on the Oilers 2009-10 roster?
• Second City Hockey:  Someone better tell Dale Tallon that the NHL salary cap didn’t go up that much.
• T.O. Sports:  Justin Pogge, who some viewed as the Leafs goalie of the future will now be fighting hard for a spot…on an AHL roster.
• Mile High Hockey: Despite the excitment at drafting Matt Duchene, times are still going to be rough for Avs fans for the next few years as they rebuild.
• Greatest Hockey Legends:  A look at the Hull brothers.

This week’s edition of My Team Canada features the 7 defensemen who will be making the Canadian Olympic squad come this February.  In case you missed it, last week’s article focused on Team Canada’s goaltending needs.

Defense Candidates: Francois Beauchemin, Jay Bouwmeester, Dan Boyle, Brent Burns, Drew Doughty, Mike Green, Dan Hamhuis, Duncan Keith, Scott Niedermayer, Dion Phaneuf, Chris Pronger, Robyn Regehr, Stephane Robidas, Brent Seabrook, Marc Staal, Shea Weber.

Starting Pairings (plus one):

Pronger-Niedermayer

This pairing was pretty much automatic, as both Pronger and Niedermayer have been staples of Team Canada’s blueline for many years now.  With both having Cup rings, their veteran and leadership presence will be important on a young team.  Let’s just hope Niedermayer wants to play; remember he declined his invite in 2006.

Weber-Bouwmeester

Another pairing that was almost automatic.  Weber’s booming shot will be a great asset with the man advantage, and Bouwmeester’s skating is arguably the best in the world.  Too bad this tournament isn’t on the big Olympic ice.

Phaneuf-Regehr

The defensive minded Regehr will be paired with Phaneuf to keep him in check, and cover for him when he pinches in for a big hit or play at the blueline.  With Regehr being the only true stay-at-home defenseman on Team Canada, he will be relied upon heavily when protecting a lead.  Phaneuf on the other hand is polar opposite, and will be let loose when an offensive boost is needed.  Phaneuf’s regression this past season is somewhat troublesome, so look for Yzerman & Co to possibly put Mike Green on instead, should Phaneuf have another poor start to the season.

Boyle

This last spot was a toss up between Boyle and Keith.  Keith is the better skater and slightly better defensively, while Boyle brings more offense to the table.  On a very young team, especially on the blueline, Boyle’s Cup experience is the reason why he is on this team.

Who didn’t make the cut:

Mike Green

A glaring omission from this team is Mike Green.  As mentioned above, the decision will come down to either Phaneuf or Green.  Both bring similar games, with Green having more offensive upside, and Phaneuf having the more physical upside.  That being said, between all the other D on this team, there will be enough offense to go around that Green can be spared.

Duncan Keith

Leaving Keith off was a tough one, but his time will eventually come.  His Stanley Cup playoff performance was OK, but not amazing (despite him being quite sick), so a few more years and he will be ready.

Stephane Robidas

If broken noses were the only measurement for making this team, Robidas would be the Captain.  A warrior on the blueline for Dallas the past couple of years, Robidas isn’t nearly talented enough to make this squad.

Drew Doughty

A bit too young/raw at the moment.

Marc Staal

Almost there, but not quite yet.

Brent Seabrook

Despite playing great in the playoffs, Team Canada can do better.

Dan Hamhuis

Good, but not great.

Brent Burns

Going into last season, Burns looked like he would make the cut.  Unfortunately, a few concussions and playing wing this past season didn’t help his chances.  He could MAYBE replace Boyle providing he has a great first half of next season, but it’s doubtful at this point.

Francois Beauchemin

As a rule of thumb, no Maple Leafs will be on this team.  Sorry Mike Van Ryn fans.

Next week’s article will examine the projected forwards for Team Canada.

• Former OHL’er Jason Cassidy blogs over at THN about his transition from major junior to the CIS. I always like these stories about CIS players, as I feel its an underappreciated league.
• Psycho Lady Hockey has put out a casting call for professional hockey players in the Toronto area who might be willing to appear in some short films. Looking forward to the films.
• Click here to help Hockey Blog in Canada choose a Western Conference team to cheer for. He makes compelling cases for all the teams, but I encourage you to write in a vote for the Oilers!
• Versus’ own Lisa Dillman blogs about her two draft experiences. Illegal Curve is very pleased to annouce that Lisa will be joining the guys on IC Radio, this Wednesday night. Be sure to tune in!
• Goon’s World has posted a very interesting update on the UND Sioux nickname controversy. Watch for this issue to heat up as summer winds down.
• TSN is reporting that the Manitoba Moose have signed head coach Scott Arniel to an extension. Well deserved.
• A pair of interesting stories over at Puck the Media, featuring Eddie Olczyk and Darren Pang. Must be nice to win a cool half-million at the track.

What team beat writers are saying this afternoon:

• Randy Carlyle is happy with his team’s moves this off-season, especially the addition of a couple scoring forwards, but his main focus will still be team defense come the fall.  He should be happy.  The team has one of the best top-six forward units in hockey, some nice talent on defense and a great young netminder.  Obviously the loss of Pronger will hurt, but the extra offense should help ease that pain.  Expect the Ducks to be a force in the ultra-competitive Western Conference next season.
• Fluto Shinzawa talks (in video form) about the progress of Bruins prospect Joe Colborne.  I know he’s big and I know his name is Joe, but people shouldn’t expect him to become Thornton-like.  Thornton’s skills were far ahead Colborne’s when he was in his late teens.  So, don’t expect the Bruins to rush Colborne–especially considering the team’s depth at forward.
• Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch previews the St. Louis Blues heading into 2009/10.  I think the Blues are going to be better than Columbus next season and could even be the fourth best team in the Conference.  John Davidson, Larry Pleau and Doug Armstrong are running the organization as well as any organization in the NHL.  So yeah, I’m pretty high on the Blues moving forward.
• The Habs were impressed enough with Andreas Engqvist at the team’s development camp that they have signed him to a three-year deal.  Needless to say, not many people know much about this kid.  However, he’s young and has good size and experience playing in a tough league, so there is little, if any, downside to a move of this nature.
• With the Jiri Hudler situation currently under review, John Glennon wonders if the IIHF will show any bite this time around by not allowing his move to the KHL to occur?  Not likely.  As Glennon says, what did the IIHF do last season when Alexander Radulov clearly broke the rules?  Why would we expect things to change?
• Rumor has it Jacques Lemaire is heading back to New Jersey to become the team’s head coach.  Well, that retirement lasted long!  This move really isn’t surprising.  Lemaire and Lamoriello are old friends, and both know what they are getting into.  He’s obviously more than a capable replacement for the departed Brent Sutter and the Devils will be a force to be reckon with next season, yet again. 
• The Hershey Bears have named Mark French as their new coach.  He takes over for Bob Woods, who led the team to a Calder Cup Championship last season.   

Development Camps

• Thrashers prospect Carl Klingberg is hoping to be in the NHL within the next two years, writes Chris Vivlamore.
• Wings prospect Julien Cayer is happy to be at development camp this year after missing the camp last season due to a hip problem.
• The Kings brass has been very impressed with Brayden Schenn’s work ethic at the team’s development camp.
• The Predators organization is very excited about having the versatile Nick Spaling coming through the system.
• You know expectations for John Tavares are high when Greg Logan of Newsday tells us that Tavares was -2 at yesterday’s development camp scrimmage.
• Flyers prospect James Van Riemsdyk says the biggest adjustment from college to the pros is positioning.
• Tampa Bay prospect Jaroslav Janus has loads of potential but he may get caught behind the Lightning’s two other prospect netminders.

Other News

• Adrian Dater of the Denver Post says that the 2009/10 season may be a long one for the Avalanche but that it couldn’t get much worse than last season.
• Rich Hammond of the L.A. Daily News explains the reasoning behind the Kings’ signing of Rob Scuderi and acquisition of Ryan Smyth.
• Penguins fans are already paranoid about not having a shutdown defense combination for next season.
• Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star provides readers with a program for today’s Coyotes hearing.
• Ed Willes of the Vancouver Province realizes the Canucks probably have some needs at defense or forward, but feels like the best teams fill their needs internally.

Free Agency

• The Sabres have signed free agent defenseman Joe DiPenta to a one-year deal.
• The Coyotes are attempting to re-sign Scottie Upshall and Keith Yandle to new contracts.
• Ray Shero was disappointed to see Rob Scuderi and Hal Gill leave town, but he is still confident in his team’s defense heading into 2009/10.
• Lightning GM Brian Lawton’s recent signings could have been partly expected considering his old agency represents a number of these players.
• Staying in Tampa Bay, free agent signing Matt Walker’s finger is a YouTube phenomenon.
• The Habs have signed Kyle Chipchura to a one-year deal.
• On Saturday, the Flames announced the signing of tough guy Brian McGrattan.
• Youngster Mike Funk has signed with his favorite team growing up, the Vancouver Canucks, after being non-tenedered by the Sabres.
• After a bunch of free agent signings, here is a look at the Habs’ depth chart heading into the 2009/10 season.

Development Camps

• Thrashers first round pick, Evander Kane, has been working on the fundamentals of the game from a very young age, explains Chris Vivlamore.
• New York Rangers prospect Chris Krieder was almost a Canadien, writes Kevin Paul Dupont.
• Some people compare Bruins prospect Jamie Arniel with Ottawa center Mike Fisher.
• Detroit prospect Tomas Tatar would much prefer to play in the Ontario Hockey League next season if he can, writes George Sipple.
• The Predators continue to quietly churn out unknown goaltenders through their minor league system, writes John Glennon.
• The Coyotes have been very impressed with the play of new prospect Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
• Jim Baumbach of Newsday compares John Tavares’s demeanor to that of Derek Jeter.
• Lightning prospect Dana Tyrell is relieved to finally be back on the ice skating, writes Damian Cristodero.
• After the closing of the Blues’ development camp, John Davidson wished everyone a good summer, as teams are beginning to take some time away from the game.
• Canadiens prospect guru Trevor Timmins was very pleased with the team’s development camp this past week.

Other News

• In sad news, former Sabre Reg Fleming passed away at the age of 73.
• Woody Paige of the Denver Post has a very informative interview with Pierre Lacroix regarding a number of Avalanche related issues.
• The story of how Don Baizley became Joe Sakic’s long-time agent is a good one.
• Terry Frei of the Denver Post says that Avalanche fans should look at Pittsburgh as a model for rebuilding.
• Earlier this off-season, Sharks GM Doug Wilson turned down an offer of Jason Chimera for Sharks defenseman Christian Ehrhoff.
• It has been a couple days since a Dany Heatley article was written, so here’s the latest from Dan Barnes of the Edmonton Journal.  Barnes wants people to realize that Heatley is what we think he is.
• Marian Gaborik is one motivated player as he looks forward to his first season in New York, explains Larry Brooks.
• In his Sunday Slap Shots column, Brooks suggests the Rangers offer Brandon Dubinsky to the Bruins straight up for Marc Savard.
• A Canadian–not named Jim Balsillie– wants to purchase the Coyotes.
• In nice news, Jarome Iginla and Cassie Campbell have raised money for the Ronald McDonald House.

Free Agency

• Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal tells readers that there are still some quality NHL free agents on the market.
• The Ducks have signed defenseman Steve McCarthy to a one-year, two-way contract.
• Sabres coach Lindy Ruff is happy with the way his team is currently constructed, writes John Vogl.
• Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville is very excited to have Marian Hossa join his roster.
• The Jiri Hudler case is under investigation.  Wings GM Ken Holland says he is “on the sidelines” for this decision.
• Former Oilers defenseman Mathieu Roy has signed on with Scott Howson and the Columbus Blue Jackets.
• The Habs added some size to their lineup on Friday, with the signings of Travis Moen and Paul Mara, explains Dave Stubbs.
• Mark Everson of the NY Post provides a small bit of information on newest Devils signee Yann Danis.
• Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen wonders what the signing of Alexei Kovalev will be like off the ice for the Senators?
• Penguins GM Ray Shero had eyes for Jay McKee and McKee and is agent had eyes for the Penguins, so a deal was consummated fairly quickly.  Money was not an issue in the McKee signing, writes Mike Prisuta of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
• Brian Burke is hoping Rickard Wallin has a little bit of Mikael Samuelsson in his game.
• Newest Lightning signing Antero Niittymaki says his hip isn’t 100%, but it is also not a problem, writes Damian Cristodero.  Niittymaki wasn’t sure who started the rumors that he was off to the KHL, but he claims they weren’t true.
• Brendan Morrison was only offered one-year contracts around the league, and Washington was one of the teams he was interested in signing with, so things have a way of working out.

Development Camps

• Thrashers prospect Angelo Esposito has really developed a two-way game over the past few seasons.
• Bruins prospect Ryan Button has heard “no” before, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t going to work hard.  Staying in Boston, Matt Dalton has had an adventurous development process.  Adventurous or not, Dalton has some skills.
• With some openings up-the-middle in Denver, former Golden Gopher Ryan Stoa knows of the possibilities ahead of him.
• Wild prospect Tyler Cuma is expected to stay in the CHL next season.
• Islanders coach Scott Gordon is happy to see the excitement surrounding John Tavares on the Island.  Former Islanders great Bryan Trottier is impressed with what he’s seen of Tavares so far.
• Blues netminding prospect Jake Allen is hoping to make a name for himself over the next couple years.  Meanwhile in the St. Louis system, Ian Cole isn’t sure if he wants to turn professional or not yet.
• The Maple Leafs have liked the progress made by goaltending prospect James Reimer.  Meantime, Leafs prospect Robert Slaney has been inspired by Daniel Cleary’s resilience, as both as from Newfoundland.
• So far Dave Gagner’s responsibilities of developing prospects for the Canucks has gone quite well, writes Elliot Pap.

Everything Else

• Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch feels like the Blue Jackets are better set up around Rick Nash than ever before.
• Lou Lamoriello is hoping to name a new head coach of the Devils by some time next week, explains Rich Chere.
• The NHL is expected to announce the Winter Classic teams and location on Wednesday.
• Is a Canadian looking to buy the Coyotes and keep them in Phoenix?  More Phoenix issues have arisen, as a U.S. Trustee is skeptical of the lack of bidding for the Coyotes.
• Still with Phoenix, Wayne Gretzky’s lawyers are fighting the attempted release of Gretzky’s financial information.

From the Washington Capitals:

The Washington Capitals have signed unrestricted free agent center Brendan Morrison to a one-year contract, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today. In keeping with club policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

A 5’11”, 181-pound native of Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, Morrison has had 50-plus points six times, including four 20-goal seasons. He has played 755 career games with four teams – Dallas, Anaheim, Vancouver and New Jersey – spanning 12 NHL seasons. Morrison has 175 goals and 330 assists (505 points) in his NHL career, with career highs in goals (25), assists (46) and points (71) coming in 2002-03 with the Canucks.

Read entire post here.

The signing doesn’t cost much (JP says it’s for $1.5 million) and is only for one year, so I don’t really see much downside.  Morrison is a good passer but he has slowed down significantly the past couple of seasons.  The Capitals have snipers like Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin that will benefit from playing with a passer like Morrison–especially on the power play.  However, Morrison is not the player he was earlier this decade in Vancouver, so expectations need to be kept in check.  A rebound to the 50-55 point mark seems reasonable if he plays with some of the Capitals’ offensive players.

If you want more Morrison information, Japers’ Rink has put together Morrison’s career statistics.

• Eric Duhatschek muses on the LA Kings and their imminent resurgence. I always had a soft spot for the Kings, and its nice to see them poised to take the next step.
• Jiri Hudler may be obliged to play in Detroit this season, after all, due to his filing for salary arbitration. Interesting comments from the IIHF.
• An update from Battle of California, noting that the Kings have invited Slovakian Jurajj Mikus to camp. His point totals are impressive, even for the Slovakian league.
• Psycho Lady Hockey offers up the hockey dictionary. Pretty amusing stuff and I encourage you to check out this blog.
• I came across a link to this gem on a website devoted to Wisconsin Badger hockey. Give it a read. Some easy reading to give you a laugh on Friday afternoon.
• Infrequent IC contributor Amanda Kosior gets a shout on Tampa Bay Exposed, where the writer is taking offense to hockey cheerleaders. I can see both sides of this argument, but really, the cheerleaders aren’t hurting anyone. If you don’t like them, they are easily ignored. I am still a purist when it comes to games, and long for the days of organ music for entertainment, but if the cheerleaders help sell tickets, they are here to stay.
• The Manitoba Moose have won several more AHL awards, including the top executive nod for GM Craig Heisinger. Well deserved award. The organization is hard-working, top to bottom.

What team beat writers are saying this afternoon:

• Bob Murray likes the look of his Ducks team after a number of significant transactions.  As I’ve said here before, Bob Murray is quickly becoming one of my favorite GMs in the business.  Not much talk and lots of action.
• A wrap up of Day 4 from Bruins development camp.  Joe Colborne could be the wild card of the bunch.  He’s got huge potential.
• The Hurricanes have released their pre-season schedule.  The anticipation is building… Okay, okay, I’m kidding.
• Sergei Zubov is open to signing in other places instead of just Dallas.  The Stars would be smart to get him signed.
• The Panthers have signed Graham Mink to a contract.  AHL veteran who provides the organization with depth.
• Paul Mara has signed a one-year deal with the Montreal Canadiens. While Mara never fulfilled his full potential, he can still move the puck well and stands up for his teammates.  The Habs could have done worse here for a 5/6 defenseman, so Gainey is probably happy.
• The Devils have signed Yann Danis.  He’ll play behind Brodeur, so he won’t see much ice-time but his numbers from the Island were respectable.
• Seth Rorabaugh gives Penguins fans some information on the soon-to-be signed Jay McKee.  McKee is injury prone, but when he’s healthy he brings similar attributes to the table as Hal Gill did.
• Antero Niittymaki has signed with Tampa Bay instead of the KHL.  He’ll play behind Mike Smith and has shown flashes of some solid goaltending ability.  However, if Smith goes down, I don’t think he’s capable of being the starter for a prolonged period of time.

Update: The Habs have also signed Travis Moen.

Free Agency

• “This team has won the Cup recently and so many good young players and veteran players. I’m real excited to be on a team that knows how to win,” said newest Ducks defenseman Nick Boynton.  The Ducks didn’t really concern themselves with Boynton’s troubles in Florida, writes Dan Wood.
• Jiri Hudler filed his KHL contract on Thursday.
• Jim Matheson has the story of Ales Kotalik leaving the Oilers for the Rangers.  David Staples says Kotalik wasn’t a great fit in Edmonton.
• Kotalik could find himself on a line with Chris Drury, writes Steve Zipay of Newsday.  The signing of Kotalik is yet another sign that Nikolai Zherdev is on his way out of town, writes Larry Brooks.
• The Sabres signed Matt Ellis to a one-year contact on Thursday.
• The Wild has signed its first round pick from 2008, Tyler Cuma, to an entry-level deal.
• It appears the Penguins could be close to signing former Blues defenseman Jay McKee, reports Shelly Anderson.
• The Sharks have now officially signed Rob Blake and Kent Huskins to new contracts.
• Victor Hedman formally signed his rookie contract on Thursday.
• The Leafs are close to signing center Rickard Wallin to a contract.  “He is a good centre man and a good locker room guy too. He is a good, mature player,” said Jonas Gustavsson about Wallin.
• Calgary made a couple minor signings on Thursday.

Development Camps

• Bruins prospect Jeff LoVecchio has left his concussion problems behind him just as Patrice Bergeron has done.  Meanwhile, Bruins prospect Zack Hamill needs to get bigger and stronger if he wants to make an impact in the NHL.
• Predators much-heralded prospect Colin Wilson may begin the season at the AHL level.
• John Tavares can finally get rid of the microphone and strap on the skates for the Islandes, explains Greg Logan.
• Meanwhile, in Vancouver, Cody Hodgson is going into next season’s training camp with a roster spot to lose.
• Size doesn’t matter to Oilers prospect Tony Rajala.

Joe Sakic Retirement

• Eric Duhatschek runs down the many Joe Sakic career accomplishments.
• Sakic admitted yesterday that health was the biggest reason for his retirement announcement.
• Adrian Dater provides readers with an hour-by-hour account of Sakic’s retirement day.
• Woody Paige keeps it simple by thanking Sakic for his time in Denver.
• Here is a transcript of Sakic’s retirement speech.
• Remember when Joe Sakic almost ended up as a New York Ranger?
• Sakic’s plans in retirement center mainly on time with his family and especially his kids.

Everything Else

• According to Eugene Melnyk, it is still possible we could see Dany Heatley as an Ottawa Senator next season.
• If Radim Vrbata returns to the NHL, it won’t be with the Lightning, writes Damian Cristodero.
• Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen says the Canadiens organization lacks a vision.
• Bruce Arthur of the National Post has an interesting piece on Wayne Gretzky.
• Could the Blue Jackets and Sharks be perfect trading partners?
• The Stars have released the team’s pre-season schedule for next season.
• The Wings have released their pre-season schedule as well.
• Staying in Detroit, Justin Abdelkader will have plenty of opportunity to become a Red Wings regular next season.
• The Oilers acquired a conditional draft pick on Thursday.
• The Panthers announced their pre-season schedule yesterday and it sure encompasses a lot of travel, writes George Richards.
• The Flyers have named John Paddock the team’s new assistant GM.
• Darren Pang will be moving from Phoenix to St. Louis to become the Blues’ color commentator next season, reports Jim Gintonio.  As a result of this move, Bernie Federko will find himself at ice-level when he calls home games for the Blues.
• In other Phoenix related news, the NHL is claiming that Jerry Moyes is trying to derail the sale of the team.  Speaking of the sale, is there another bidder now in the picture?
• Pierre Lacroix was using a cane at Joe Sakic’s retirement announcement but the good news is that his health is getting better.

This week’s IllegalCurve.com Radio Show has been archived.

This week’s guests were Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen and Mike Boone of the Montreal Gazette. 

Scanlan discusses the Dany Heatley issue in depth, as well as the Alexei Kovalev signing.  Boone spoke about the Habs’ acquisition of Scott Gomez, the signings of Mike Cammalleri, Brian Gionta, Hal Gill and Jaroslav Spacek and much more Habs related news.

Additionally, the crew goes rapid fire through the significant free agent signings since July 1, the blockbuster trades we’ve seen and provide the usual cheers and jeers.

Click here to listen to/download this week’s show.

To read more about IC Radio or if you want to listen to past shows, click here.

We hope you enjoy.

Sincerely,

The IC Team

• Empty Netters muses about what the deal is with Martin Biron. The market for goaltenders has cooled considerably.
• I came across this blog while reading a news story, but if you want updates on hockey in Alaska, this is likely your go to blog. An oft-forgotten hockey market.
• Former Prospect Pulse featuree Stanislav Galiev looks to be spurning the Saint John Sea Dogs for another year in Indiana. This kid has sublime talent, but could use a little bulk.
• Prospect Park is not happy about Nik Zherdev filing for arbitration. While I see their point, it is every player’s right.
• A Scout’s Life looks at summer options for scouts, which looks like work, work or work. There is very little rest for these guys, especially in the cap world.
• Former Sabre and brief Oiler Ales Kotalik has signed a deal with the New York Rangers. Ales 1 will be sad to see him go. I kind of thought the Oilers would re-sign him.
• Adam Proteau of The Hockey News proves its never too early for awards.

What team beat writers are saying this afternoon:

• Fluto Shinzawa with a report from Day 3 of the Bruins’ development camp.  Don’t know much about any of those players, so I’ll take Fluto’s word for it.
• Are the Sabres rebuilding?  Not necesarily.  Consider the fact that the teams around them have made a lot of moves but not necessarily improved.  If the Sabres play up to their potential, they should have a good chance at making the playoffs next season.
• The Ducks have signed Nick Boynton to a one-year deal.  Bob Murray is quickly becoming one of my favorites in the business.  He’s no talk, all action.  Good move here to add a veteran defender like Boynton to the Ducks’ back-end.  The team needs more defensemen and Boynton a serviceable 5/6 guy. 
• Brad Richards could be a possibile target for the Rangers.  Didn’t they just get rid of a big salaried center whose strength was passing?
• A YouTube video has been created by a Habs fan for Saku Koivu.  Well deserved.
• Here is the latest from the Predators’ development camp.  Poile always does a good job of running talented young players through the system.
• Where could Alex Tanguay end up?  As I said in my Puck Prospectus article this week, I believe Tanguay is going to be a productive and affordable pick up for some team looking for offense.
• The Senators are going to make the playoffs this year, says James Gordon of the Ottawa Citizen.  I’ll wait for the Heatley situation to unfold further before making any predictions.
• Brendan Shanahan wants to return to Jersey and the Devils seem to want him back, but for now both sides are waiting to see how some other transactions unfold.  Nothing wrong with bringing back a veteran like Shanny.
• Could Antero Niittymaki be on his way to Tampa instead of the KHL?  That team better hope Mike Smith is healthy, because if he isn’t, they will have some big issues.

Free Agency

• Saku Koivu was offered a multi-year deal by the the Wild but did not feel comfortable with the idea of possibily overshadowing his brother, so he opted for Anaheim, writes Lisa Dillman.  The Ducks’ top-six forward group is now the best it has been since the team won the Cup, opines Dan Wood of the Orange County Register.
• Apparently the Wild offered Saku Koivu a two-year deal at approximately $8 million.
• Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette has a terrific article this morning on the type of person the Ducks are getting in Koivu.
• While he opted to sign in New York, Marian Gaborik came back to the Minnesota area yesterday to say his goodbyes.
• While David Krejci may have been able to get more money from the Bruins, he’s perfectly content with the contract he signed, explains Fluto Shinzawa.
• In Carolina, the Hurricanes hope to sign Tuomo Ruutu to a two or three year deal before his arbitration hearing.
• Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon admits that he is relieved to have signed the players involved in the qualifying offer controversy.
• It sounds like Jiri Hudler is gone to the KHL for a two-year, $10 million deal.  (Writer’s note: This move caught me off-guard, as I expected Hudler to be a very important replacement for Marian Hossa’s lost offense.  In my opinion, this is the Wings’ most important defection because it was the most unexpected.)  “He got a great offer, an offer he couldn’t refuse,” said Wings GM Ken Holland.
• The Wings lost Hudler, but did add depth on defense by signing Doug Janik.
• It sounds like the Devils are interested in signing Brendan Morrison.
• Staying in New Jersey, the team has signed Ilkka Pikkarainen to a one-year deal.
• The Lightning has signed defenseman Kurtis Foster to a one-year deal worth $600,000.

Joe Sakic’s Retirement

• Mike Modano considers Joe Sakic among the top five players he ever played against.
• Dave Krieger says that Joe Sakic was always fine with quietly getting things done.
• Peter Forsberg, Sakic’s long-time teammate, says he owes a lot to the Burnaby native.
• If you read what people are saying around the NHL, you begin to understand just how respected Joe Sakic was by his peers.
• They don’t make ‘em like Joe Sakic anymore.

Claude Lemieux’s Retirement

• This time around, Claude Lemieux gets to leave the NHL on his own terms, writes Dave Pollak.
• Lemieux says that his 1995 Conn Smythe Trophy was one of his career highlights.

Development Camps

• Bruins youngster Tommy Cross was just happy to be back on the ice on Wednesday.
• The Oilers youngsters did some important team-building exercises yesterday.
• Will the Predators sign Blake Geoffrion after his final season in college?
• James van Riemsdyk isn’t driving as far as he did last year to compete in the Flyers’ development camp.
• Mike Lee, who is headed to St. Cloud State in the fall, impressed former netminder Sean Burke.
• Blues prospect Lars Eller is shooting to make the team’s roster this fall.
• The Canucks have told prospect Patrick White to stop being so nice.
• The Leafs love Tyler Bozak’s work ethic.  Sticking with the Maple Leafs, prospect Christian Hansen says it was important for him to get his college degree.

Everything Else

• Have you been getting late-night calls from the Lightning?
• Apparently Vincent Lecavelier was “never up to be traded.”
• Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen examines the changes made by the Senators, Leafs and Habs over the past couple weeks.
• Another bidder for the Coyotes?
• In Toronto, Brian Burke wants to add some penalty killers, writes Paul Hunter.
• If the Blue Jackets can, they’d like to deal a forward for a defenseman, writes Tom Reed.
• On Wednesday, the Stars acquired Alex Auld from Ottawa.  Trading Auld saves the Senators money against the cap.
• Next year you will be able to go see a Panthers game for as little as $7 per game.  In other Panthers news, the team has hired a new strength and conditioning coach.
• On the Island, John Tavares is demonstrating to the Islanders faithful just how polished he is for an 18 year old.  Make no mistake, there is a lot of pressure on Tavares to turn around the Islanders’ fortunes.

Tonight’s guests are Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen and Mike Boone of the Montreal Gazette.  Needless to say, we have a myriad of hot button issues to discuss concerning the Senators and Canadiens.

Additionally, we will be discussing the big free agent signings, trades and the retirement of Joe Sakic.

Click here to listen live.  Also, if you want to call in and talk some hockey dial 204-780-5425.

If you want more information on IC Radio, click here.

We hope you enjoy the show.

Sincerely,

The IC Team

• Pierre Lebrun updates us the Koivu to Anaheim news by saying the former Habs captain would not have felt comfortable in Minnesota. Guess he doesn’t like Al Franken.
• Adrian Dater of All Things Avs dredges up the Sakic versus Yzerman debate. Good points to discuss, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder on this one.
• The Windy City Hockey blog ponders the cap implications of Kris Versteeg’s new deal.
• In the wake of the Hudler signing, former Flyer goaltender Antero Niittymaki has also signed on with the KHL. Unlike the Hudler signing, this signing likely won’t cause many waves.
• John Tavares gets introduced to Long Island. I wonder how long til he picks up the accent?
• Check out the Psycho Lady hockey blog. Interesting…
• NHL Snipers has updated grades on free agency for all the teams.

This week at Puck Prospectus, I examined the top five remaining unrestricted free agent players according to the goals-versus-threshold statistic (a stat similar to VORP for those who follow baseball).

Here is an excerpt:

1. Martin Biron (GVT 14.3)

After being dispatched from Philadelphia in favor of Ray Emery, Martin Biron still finds himself as an available unrestricted free agent. Were the Flyers right to let him go or was Biron really not the problem in Philadelphia?

Well, the statistics exhibit that the Flyers’ biggest problem last season was not in between the pipes (where the team had an even strength GVT of 12.5), but instead on the blue line (where the team had an even strength GVT of -20.3). Either way, the Flyers chose to address both “problems” this offseason by bringing in Emery and then trading for Chris Pronger. Whereas Pronger served to fill an obvious need, the signing of Emery and the decision to let Martin Biron walk probably had as much, or more, to do with salary than anything else.

Read the entire article here.

From TSN.ca:

After spending his entire 13-year career in Montreal, Saku Koivu will be calling Orange County his home. The Anaheim Ducks have signed the free agent centre to a one-year, $3.25 million contract. Koivu, 34, had been the Canadiens’ second-longest serving captain in team history.

Click here to read the full article.

Great move by the Ducks to sign the centre to a reasonable one year deal.  After everyone assumed he would be going to the Wild to join his bro, the Ducks get a veteran centre to team up with fellow fin Teemu Selanne.

From TSN.ca:

After 1,215 career NHL games with Montreal, New Jersey, Colorado, Phoenix, Dallas and San Jose, winger Claude Lemieux formally announced his retirement from hockey on Wednesday.

Lemieux won four Stanley Cups and is one of only eight players to win a championship with three different teams (Montreal, 1986; New Jersey, 1995 and 2000; Colorado, 1996).

“I want to thank my former teammates from my entire career for all of their support,” said Lemieux in a statement released by the Sharks. “I feel very fortunate that I was able to have a career like I had.  There have been many great NHL players who did not get the opportunities to win that I had.  I played for a long time but it went by so very fast.”

For complete story, click here.

And with Claude Lemieux calling it quits an era comes to a close.  He was the last remaining active member of the 1983 draft class.  He was drafted with some gems:  Pierre Turgeon, Pat Lafontaine, Steve Yzerman, Russ Courtnall, Cam Neely, Kevin Stevens, Dominik Hasek to name a few.

I had a chance to see him play the Wings back in February and couldn’t really recall anything outstanding (5:08 total ice time, -1) from that game relating to Lemieux aside from the crowd booing everytime he touched the puck.  But when the Avalanche play Detroit that really could be intended for any member of that squad.  (although becuase of the Lemieux/Draper incident, Wings fans will always have a special hate in their heart for Claude).

Also via TSN, Kris Versteeg has signed with the Chicago Blackhaws, thus clearing up the last of the potential problem spots after Chicago’s administrative error.

The Chicago Blackhawks have put a good part of their restricted free-agent woes behind them, as the club agreed to a three-year contract worth more than $9 million with forward Kris Versteeg.

“Kris’ tremendous rookie season was a big reason the team was able to go as far as it did,” Blackhawks General Manager Dale Tallon said in a statement. “He is part of a core of young players that is going to make this franchise successful for a long time.”

Whew. While the price tag was pretty hefty, at least it saves the Hawks some PR embarrassment.

TSN is reporting that Detroit Red Wings forward Jiri Hudler, who filed for salary arbitration this week, has apparently signed a 1-year deal with Dynamo Moscow worth a reported $2 million dollars.

Hudler, 25, was one of 20 players who filed for salary arbitration on Sunday.

Hudler and the Red Wings were in the process of negotiating a contract before the hearing took place between July 20 and August 4. By filing for arbitration, Hudler could not receive an offer sheet from another team.

Hudler earned $1.15 million last season while posting career-highs of 23 goals and 57 points.

This wave of defections may actually hurt the Wings a little. Their depth has been a calling card during the glory years and Hudler’s departure is yet another blow. While none of the departures is really that earth shaking (save for Hossa) it may turn out to be a death by a thousand cuts type scenario.

Free Agency

• Jonas Gustavsson has decided to sign with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the fact that Brian Burke came overseas to talk to him a couple times clearly didn’t hurt.  His numbers from Sweden sure are impressive.  So, with this signing, are the Leafs thinking playoffs?
• Even though the Stars did not land Gustavsson, new GM Joe Nieuwendyk felt that effort was worthwhile.
• To make up for not signing Gustavsson, the Stars did sign Jeff Woywitka on Tuesday to a two-year deal.  (Writer’s note: Woywitka is obviously not going to turn into the defenseman many thought he would, but this signing is very low-risk for Dallas.  I think it is a worthwhile move.)
• Todd Marchant and the Anaheim Ducks have agreed on a two-year contract.
• The Flames have re-signed Jamie Lundmark and have also signed Jason Jaffray to a two-way, two-year deal.
• Atlanta has signed Joey Crabb and Nathan Oystrick to new deals.
• Like the Thrashers, the Red Wings also made some depth signings on Tuesday.
• Staying in the Southeast Division, the Lightning signed former Wild forward Stephane Veilleux to a one-year pact.
• Boston has signed goaltender Dany Sabourin to a one-year contract.

Joe Sakic Retirement

• Eric Duhatschek writes about the incredible career of Joe Sakic as only he can.
• As Adrian Dater of the Denver Post writes, you know you are good when top flight NHL players always wanted to be like you.
• Dater says what made Sakic so likeable was not just his tremendous talent but his humbleness that went with that.
• You hear the term clutch tossed around an awful lot, but that term was fitting for Burnaby Joe.
• For a guy that many people in Denver didn’t know before 1995/96, Joe Sakic made quite an impression on the City of Denver, opines Woody Paige.
• Sakic’s former Avalanche teammates obviously have only the best things to say about one of the all-time greats.
• If people didn’t know, Joe Sakic was always that good.
• Terry Frei provides readers with a timeline of Sakic’s illustrious career.

Development Camps

• Due to archaic NCAA rules, Jordan Schroeder had to borrow money from his dad to pay for his way to Vancouver for the team’s prospect development camp.
• Bruins prospect Zach Hamill is considered a veteran in some circles, writes Fluto Shinzawa.
• Remaining in Boston, big Bruins prospect Joe Colborne has already put on considerable bulk since he was drafted last summer.
• Sabres prospect Chris Butler eventually wants to be the team’s power play quarterback.
• In Chicago, prospect Kyle Beach is hoping to prove to the Hawks brass that he has begun his maturation process.
• Having Ray Ferraro as his dad has certainly not hurt Landon Ferraro’s development as a professional.
• Big-time surgery before you are a professional is not the easiest thing, just ask Oilers prospect Jordan Bendfeld.
• Wild prospect Petr Kalus did not suit up yesterday at camp because he was sick.
• Forget the distractions, the Coyotes prospects are looking forward to the team’s development camp this week.
• Habs first round pick Louis Leblanc was not alone on the ice with the other Habs prospects, as former teammate Danny Kristo was there to join him.
• Remember Garth Butcher? Now read about his son, a Canucks prospect.
• Ryan Ellis may be very short, but he does not lack talent, writes John Glennon.

Everything Else

• The Florida Panthers have reduced their season ticket prices in almost all categories.
• The Flyers wasted little time getting Chris Pronger’s name on a long-term contract, explains Sam Carchidi.
• Meantime, who needs to give Chris Pronger attention when you also acquired Ryan Dingle?
• Alexei Kovalev says that, while people may have a different perception, he is always trying his hardest.
• Senators fans will like Kovalev more after hearing what he thinks his new team is capable of.
• John Tavares is scheduled to be unveiled to the Islanders faithful today, explains Greg Logan.
• Even with Maxime Talbot’s injured shoulder, Ray Shero doesn’t anticipate adding any significant forwards before the season begins.  The good news was that Talbot’s surgery was successful.
• For those pining for the Predators’ pre-season schedule in early July, click here.
• The Nashville schedule looks simple compared to Tampa Bay’s.
• The Blue Jackets have named their new radio voice for next season.

 Some news and notes from around the Blog’s:

• Mile High Hockey:  More reaction to the news of Joe Sakic’s retirement.
• Slap Shot:  Discusses the Hawks troubles.
• On Frozen Blog:  Apparently President Obama talks over in Moscow covered more than just international politics as he showed Ovie some love.
• Blueshirt Banter:  Are the Rangers in talks with Derek Morris?
• Lighthouse Hockey:  The AHL realigns and now the Islanders and Rangers are proper AHL rivals.
• Broad Street Hockey:  Chris Pronger signs a 7 year, $35 million dollar extension.
• mc79hockey.com: Talks about the Chris Pronger contract, Cap hits and players over the age of 35.
• The Bruins Blog:  Matt tells us that Bruins draftee Jordan Caron has a measure of comfort at day one of the Bruins Development Camp.
• Stanley Cup of Chowder:  Bruins sign Drew Fata and Dany Sabourin.
• Greatest Hockey Legends:  Pens d-man Dave Burrows is no longer the most underrated player of all time.
• Five Hole Fanatics:  Makes the case for someone in the NHL seeking out Nik Zherdev.
• In Lou We Trust:  With all the free spots in the roster what will the team look like and where are these new players likely to come from?
• Four Habs Fans:  What next season’s Montreal roster would look like if the season started tonight.
• Defending Big D:  Stars sign Jeff Woywitka to a two-year, one-way contract worth $1.3 million.

TSN is reporting that, effective Thursday, the NHL will be without one of its all-time greats. Avalanche captain Joe Sakic is apparently going to retire at a press conference on July 9th.

The Avalanche have called a news conference for Thursday at 3pm et/12pm pt, where according to local reports they will announce Sakic’s retirement.

The Burnaby, B.C. native would leave the game as one of the most decorated athletes to ever take to the ice. Sakic hoisted two Stanley Cups, participated in 13 NHL All-Star games, and was named tournament MVP for Canada’s gold medal winning team in the 2002 Olympics.

Sakic played his entire career for the Quebec/Colorado franchise, and served as their captain since 1992, after being drafted 15th overall by the Nordiques in the 1987 NHL Entry draft.

Sakic was certainly a treat to watch. A no nonsense type forward with sublime skills and a laser beam wrist shot, he made the Nordiques respectable and made the Avalanche champions. A fine international record also adorned Sakic’s mantle. Denver, and the hockey world as a whole, will certainly miss Burnaby Joe.

• For your viewing pleasure, the extended version of the Sedin NHL promo video. Very funny stuff. The loony and toony line being my favourite.
• Darren Eliot of SI has an interesting piece about team tendencies during the UFA period.
• A look at the Top 5 Rookies in the upcoming WHL season. I have heard good things about all of them.
• A little more video, this one courtesy of Puck Daddy, featuring Dennis Hull at the Don Cherry Roast. Love those old suits.
• Obama hearts AO? Maybe AO would make a good VP. Since no one can understand him, he has to be less embarrassing than Biden. Right? Right?
• The weekly Hot List from THN. As an Oiler fan, I am very excited about Rajala coming to camp.
• Click here for a profile of Zdeno Chara’s agent, Matt Keator. I recently heard him speak and was impressed by his down to earth nature.

One of the beauties of being a writer/commentator for an online forum such as the one you have surfed your way over to, is that I don’t have to have a filter for bad language. I don’t have to temper my words for an all ages audience. I can, if I so choose, work blue, as they say in the comedy industry. Rarely do I actually do so, preferring instead to dazzle you with my command of the English language, and my pompous and highfaluting tendency to use five syllables when two will do. This past sentence is a perfect example of that.

Unfortunately, there is a situation currently going on in the NHL that can only be properly articulated by using one of George Carlin’s seven words you can’t say on TV. That is namely the Dany Heatley saga in Ottawa.

My take, in five words; Dany Heatley is an Asshole.    

The Ottawa Senators, when they acquired Dany Heatley threw a lifeline to a player who was in an inconceivably bad position (of his own making). He had just killed a teammate of his through his own reckless activities, and while he avoided incarceration in the penal system, he certainly could have and arguably should have been sentenced to play out a number of years in the hockey purgatory that is Atlanta. Ottawa bailed him out, sacrificing a player of (arguably) greater skill in Marian Hossa to acquire him, and allow him to leave the ghosts of Atlanta behind him.

How does this ingrate repay them? By bailing on his team-mates and the franchise at the first sign of trouble and personality clash.

Beyond my comprehension as to why, Dany Heatley escaped the wrath of a vengeful sports world after the death of Dan Snyder. I don’t know why that was. Perhaps it was because people believed his sorrow, real as it seemed at the time. (Not for one second do I believe that he wasn’t truly sorrowful and remorseful.) We really can’t comprehend the pain and mental anguish that Dany Heatley suffered and I am sure continues to suffer. All I know is that when Dany Heatley could conceivably been viewed as persona non grata, the Ottawa Senators were there to lend him a hand. When they in turn needed Dany Heatley to lend them a hand and grow with the team through a moderate rebuilding effort, he turned his back on them. For that, he is an asshole.

For Illegal Curve, I am Drew Mindell.

Please join the discussion below. Your comments are always welcome.

Remember to listen to the Illegal Curve.com radio show every Wednesday night on 92.9 KICK FM in Winnipeg or by clicking the Illegal Curve Radio link in the top right corner.

What team beat writers are saying this afternoon:

• Adrian Dater of the Denver Post wishes Joe Sakic a happy 40th birthday.  Dater thinks Sakic will retire, but the jury is still out on that decision.
• Alexei Kovalev says nothing is personal between him and the Canadiens.  Gainey treated him very well during his time in Montreal, so nothing should be personal.
• Kris Letang and Tyler Kennedy try and predict the weather.  The Penguins players always seem to partake in funny bits like this.
• Dany Heatley is not getting traded to Columbus, says James Gordon.  Why would the Jackets trade for Heatley?  Does he fit into their game plan moving forward?  Hitchcock would hate his defensive play and that team appears to have good chemistry.  On top of that, the team has a greater need at center.
• David Staples talks more Heatley.  I’ve just about reached my breaking point with all this Heatley news.
• What should the Sabres do with Tyler Myers?  I say, if he’s good enough, let him play.  That back end could use some help.

TSN is reporting that Swedish goaltender Jonas Gustavsson will sign with Toronto as early as today. Terms of the deal are said to one year for $810,000 plus a $90 thousand signing bonus. The Monster is expected to back up Vesa Toskala and make Pierre McGuire re-think his nickname du jour.

Labeled the best goaltender outside of the NHL last season, the 6′3″, 181 lb backstop was the top goalie in the Swedish Elite League last season while playing for Farjestad. He posted a 1.96 goals against average and a save percentage of .932 in the regular season, and led the team to the league championship this spring.

While the signing is good news for Toronto, fans should reserve judgment until he plays. I am somewhat skeptical of the “best player outside of the NHL” moniker given the Fabian Brunstrom affair and the Jiri Dopita debacle. Even players who have some success (see: Leino, Ville) haven’t exactly set the league on fire. The fact is that the best players are in the NHL (and AHL) and until Gustavsson proves otherwise, he will be just another good European goalie.

PS, just in case you thought everything was coming up roses for the Leafs, it looks like the NHL will be investigating the team on tampering charges.

Free Agent Signings

• The Leafs have finally signed Jonas Gustavsson.
• Francois Beauchemin admits he was disappointed he never received an offer from the Anaheim Ducks to remain with the team.
• With the signing of Beauchemin, the Leafs have really put together a rock-solid blue line.
• “We should have a decent D here,” said Beauchemin himself.
• On Monday, the Thrashers signed four unrestricted free agents, including Jason Krog.
• The Blackhawks have signed a number of their restricted free agents, including Ben Eager and Cam Barker.  However, Kris Versteeg has yet to sign.  (Writer’s note: This will lessen the pressure on the Hawks of the grievance filed by the PA.)
• The Avalanche also signed some of their restricted free agents, including David Jones.
• Mike Heika provides us with a short description about the Stars’ signing of Warren Peters.
• The Wings have signed Ville Leino to a two-year contract worth $1.6 million.
• The Panthers have signed Jeff Taffe to a two-year deal.
• Recent acquisitioin Chris Higgins has re-upped with the Rangers for 1 year, $2.25 million.
• In San Jose, Ryane Clowe has finally signed a four-year contract extension.
• Shane O’Brien signed a one-year deal with the Canucks and avoided arbitration.  Sticking with Vancouver, the Canucks signed Andrew Raycroft.

Development Camps

• Some of the Bruins’ younger regulars admit that the team’s development camp in the summer played a huge part in their quick leap to the NHL, writes Stephen Harris.
• Speaking of development camps, Tyler Myers is already making a great impression on the Sabres brass.
• George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press asks Jim Nill about the Red Wings’ development camp.
• While it used to be more of an optional camp, team development camps are now essentially mandatory for young players, explains Jeremy Rutherford.
• The Leafs brass really like Nazem Kadri’s mean-streak.  Staying with Kadri, the Leafs have signed him to his first contract.
• Developing players is going to be the name of the game for the next couple seasons, says Leafs coach Ron Wilson.
• The Oilers are expecting big things in the future from prospect Jordan Eberle.
• Even though the Senators signed Alexei Kovalev on Tuesday, they still need to develop their own players.

Chris Pronger in Philadelphia

• On Monday, Chris Pronger was unveiled to the Philadelphia press and Flyers ticket holders.
• If Ed Snider is out for a Flyer-related trade or signing, that means it is significant.
• Bob Ford thinks this move is Paul Holmgren’s big gamble.
• Even though Chris Pronger takes a lot of penalties and is coming to a team that does the same, the Flyers aren’t worried about that.
• In positive news for Flyers fans, Chris Pronger wants to remain a Flyer until he retires.

Alexei Kovalev in Ottawa

• The Montreal Canadiens bid goodbye to Alexei Kovalev on Monday.
• Eric Duhatschek says Alexei Kovalev has reason to be motivated after being cut loose by the Habs.
• Bryan Murray was happy with the money and the term on this deal.
• This signing should at least take some attention away from the Dany Heatley situation, writes Ken Warrent.
• Wayne Scanlan warns Senators fans to be ready to be very up and very down watching Kovalev play on a nightly basis.

Everything Else

• The Rangers could be done with Nikolai Zherdev, and if they let him go, they will almost certainly use that money elsewhere.
• With all the Dany Heatley to the Oilers talk, Andrew Cogliano is on the other end of it, and it has him a bit on edge.
• Habs coach Jacques Martin isn’t worried that his team doesn’t yet have a “leader” in the dressing room.
• If Jerry Reinsdorf’s offer goes through, who is going to get paid in Phoenix?
• Mike Fisher talks Senators issues.
• Penguins winger Maxime Talbot is set to have off-season shoulder surgery, explains Shelly Anderson.
• Teddy Vogelhuber may become the first Columbus native to ever suit up for the Blue Jackets.
• The Oilers have hired a new goalie coach.
• The Islanders’ fourth round pick from late June’s Entry Draft has been sentenced to one-year probation.

Some news and notes from the Blogs today:

• Lowetide:  Feels with the Senators’ signing of Kovalev, the Oilers are closer to getting Heatley.
• The Cult of Hockey:  Peter Adler, the Edmonton-based hockey reporter and Euro-hockey expert, shares his thoughts on the Heatley situation.
• The Cannon:  Could the Jackets be interested in Heatley?
• Eyes on the Prize:  Robert reacts to the signing of Alexei Kovalev to the rival Senators.
• Nucks Misconduct:  Shane O’Brien is back with the Canucks for one year, $1.6 million.
• Darren Dreger’s blog:  The NHLPA files a grievance against the Blackhawks.
• Andrew’s Dallas Star Page:  Stars add some depth with signing of Warren Peters.
• On Frozen Blog:  Alexander Ovechkin has been named an ambassador to the 2014 Games in Sochi.
• The Bruins Blog:  Which Bruins top prospect are you most eager to see at development camp?  Matt will be covering all the Bruins prospects all through camp.
• Snapshots:  George Malik discusses the Red Wings’ potential cap issues which he feels points to a trade on defense and a Justin Abdelkader demotion.
• Greatest Hockey Legends:  In Soviet Russia, Car drives you. 

Over the next several weeks, I will be providing our readers with a sneak peak of who will be taking the ice for Team Canada this February in Vancouver.  Yes, the team won’t be announced until probably December, but speculation has already begun as to who will make this team.

This week, I will go over the three goalies that will make the squad.

Goalie Candidates: Martin Brodeur, M-A Fleury, Roberto Luongo, Steve Mason, Cam Ward

Starting Goalie 1A: Martin Brodeur

Simply put, this job is Brodeur’s to lose, even though Luongo has been better of late (not really a fair comparison since Brodeur was injured almost all of last year).  Brodeur was the backbone of the 2002 Gold Medal winning team, plus the 2004 World Cup starter, and has done nothing to relinquish the starting job.  Let’s hope we don’t see another scenario like 2002 where Cujo was swapped for Brodeur after a loss during the first game to Sweden.  Looking back in time, how on Earth was Cujo the starter over Brodeur anyways?  Oh that’s right, then Leafs coach Pat Quinn was behind the bench for Canada at the time.

Starting Goalie 1B: Roberto Luongo

Should Broduer falter during Canada’s first game, look for Luongo to get the nod for the next one.  Although the pressure will be insurmountable playing in the Canucks’ barn, Team Canada has the best tandem in all of the Olympics.  Unless of course, Tommy Salo and Tommy Soderstrom play for Sweden this year.

Third Stinger: Cam Ward

Halfway through this past season, Steve Mason was viewed in many circles as the third goalie on the team.  Since then, Ward played out of his mind for the Canes playing almost every remaining regular season game, and lead his team to the Conference Finals in the Playoffs.  With a Cup and a Conn Smythe already under is belt, Ward has proven that he could step in and play well should disaster strike.

Steve Mason - not selected

If Mason has a crazy first half of the upcoming season, Stevie Y and friends could very well pick him as the third goalie.  After all, recall this was pretty much the same situation with Iginla in 2002 - he was a late injury replacement invite to training camp, had a sick start to the 2001-2002 season, and subsequently was chosen to the team.  If Mason is clearly playing far superior to Ward, then fine.  But the one thing that I don’t buy is to just put Mason on the team to “gain experience on an international stage.”

M-A Fleury - not selected

Fleury isn’t on this team for the same rationale as leaving Mason off - Ward is the better goalie.  Like I said above, if the Pens are undefeated at the time the team is announced, look for Fleury to get the last spot, but overall Ward is fudamentally better.

Next week I will break down the defenceman.  Stay tuned!

TSN is also reporting that Alexei Kovalev, the supremely talented and oft-undermotivated winger has signed a two-year deal with the Ottawa Senators. The deal is worth $10 million.

One of the most skilled players in the league, the Togliatti, Russia native is also one of the most unpredictable.  He can look spectacular one night, controlling the play, while completely disappearing for long stretches at a time.

The 36 year old Kovalev is undoubtedly one of the most individually talented players in the game. That being said, his motivation is sometimes questioned and he was sent home for a period last year by Montreal GM Bob Gainey. Kovalev comes to a team that is trying to unload Dany Heatley and has has dressing room problems in the past. How Kovalev fits in with this bunch remains to be seen, but his talent will help out a power-play already featuring Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson. Put a shooter out there with them and it could be dynamite.

TSN is reporting that Francois Beauchemin has signed a 3-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs worth an average of $3.8 million per season.

“Francois will be a welcome addition to our blueline,” Leafs President and general manager Brian Burke said in a statement.  “He’s a rock solid, steady defender that will add character to our team.”

This is a very solid pick-up by the Maple Leafs. Beauchemin is a proven NHL defender who will make the Leafs much tougher to play against. The price tag is a little steep for a guy coming off an MCL injury, but if he is healthy, the Leafs will have a Top 4 guy in the prime of his career. Burke continues to rebuild the team into a bigger, tougher and more North American entity and the Beauchemin signing will do wonders with the back end.

• The Dallas Stars’ Blog offers its take on the spending thus far, with a team by team breakdown. Very funny, as usual.
• A Rumour Roundup from Lyle Richardson. There are still some signings to be had out there, but I expect a pretty quiet summer.
• An early look at the Top 10 OHL prospects for next spring’s NHL draft. John McFarland may creep a little farther up this list. Dynamic player.
• The Canucks have added Andrew Raycroft to back up Roberto Luongo. Canucks fans better hope Roberto stays healthy.
• Greatest Hockey Legends waxes nostalgic for the old Soviet-Canada rivalry, and posts some awesome pics of the mid-1970’s commies. Very classy pictures, and mustaches!
• The Sporting News is reporting that the Reinsdorf bid for the Coyotes contains little to no cash. This can’t sit well with the Coyotes’ creditors.
• Sorry for the delay on this one, but its still big news. The OHL is looking to hire a person with a law enforcement background to investigate tampering (and other) charges and to oversee protection for OHL players. The OHL has long been hampered with charges that its teams are engaged in underhanbed dealing.

Free Agency

• The Leafs are not only after netminder Jonas Gustavsson, but they are also after his teammate Rickard Wallin.
• In Montreal, there was a fan rally to keep Alexei Kovalev a Hab.
• Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are waiting for a ruling by the NHL/NHLPA to determine if a filing issue will make a number of significant players free agents.
• Chad LaRose is officially no longer a free agent, after he signed a two-year, $3.4 million contract with the Hurricanes.
• The free agent contract Steve Sullivan signed won’t be covered by insurance, writes John Glennon.
• The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed forward Chris Connor to a one-year deal.  The Penguins have also signed defenseman Chris Lee.
• Tony Gallagher of the Vancouver Province thinks something is fishy about Mattias Ohlund’s contract being signed so soon after free agency began.  

Salary Arbitration News

• Bruins defeneseman Matt Hunwick has filed for salary artbitration.
• In Buffalo, Clarke MacArthur has also accepted salary arbitration.
• Hurricanes forward Tuomo Ruutu has opted for the arbitration process.
• Marc Methot of the Blue Jackets has decided to accept arbitration.
• Amazingly, Red Wings GM Ken Holland has never had a player’s salary determined by arbitration under his watch, writes George Sipple.  Will Jiri Hudler end that streak?
• New Wild center Kyle Brodziak has opted for the arbitration process, but that doesn’t mean both sides can’t work something out beforehand.
• Travis Zajac is one of the more significant names that filed for arbitration.
• Little-known Matt Smaby of the Lightning has filed for arbitration, as well.
• After a rocky start to the season, Kyle Wellwood feels confident enough that his play will earn him a raise in pay via salary arbitration.
• Habs center Tomas Plekanec has filed for arbitration after a poor 2008/09 campaign.

Everything Else

• Dan Barnes of the Edmonton Journal is late to the party but he still takes time to call Dany Heatley a selfish hockey player.  You think that’s harsh?  The people of Ottawa think that is tame.
• Wayne Gretzky was caught off-guard by a question posed to him by Toronto sports radio show host Bob McCown.
• Talk about a dream coming true for Blackhawks seventh round selection Paul Phillips.
• Looking to next season, Stars netminder Marty Turco admits he needs to play less games next season.
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette answers a reader’s question regarding the expected drop in the salary cap next season.
• The Oilers are looking to add an Oklahoma-based farm team.

NHL Free Agency

• With the signing of Rick Nash to a long-term deal, the Blue Jackets may now have a far better chance of attracting talent to Columbus, opines Aaron Portzline.
• The Wings are working on a deal with Jiri Hudler, while also looking to add a forward through free agency.
• The Islanders aren’t expected to make another splash in free agency but it is possible.
• Through free agency, trades and the draft, the Rangers are a better team today than they were heading into last season, explains Steve Zipay.
• Penguins netminder Marc-Andre Fleury thought his team would lose a lot more players than it has so far this off-season.
• Vancouver fans have to be happy after reading what Mike Babcock had to say about Mikael Samuelsson.

Trade Rumors

• Consider Kevin Paul Dupont unimpressed by the way Dany Heatley has handled his trade demand situation.
• Senators owner Eugene Melnyk is very angry at what’s been going on with the Heatley situation.
• Ryan Smyth was not surprised that he was traded by Colorado, writes Adrian Dater.
• Speaking of Smyth, he didn’t have to waive his no-trade clause to Los Angeles but he did.

Everything Else

• Larry Brooks chastises the Rangers organization for its signing of Donald Brashear.
• The Sabres have made a point of drafting toughness lately, writes Larry Felser.
• If Jerry Reinsdorf does buy the Coyotes, could his son be in charge of running the franchise?
• Rick Morrissey of the Chicago Tribune says hockey is the biggest news in Chicago in July and he’s as surprised about that as anyone.
• Things were looking great in Chicago until the team was slow in sending its qualifying offers out to a number of players, leaving the NHL to figure out whether these players may now be deemed to be free agents.
• Meanwhile, Bob Hunter of the Columbus Dispatch says sports stars spending their entire careers in Columbus is rare.
• Jim Souhan of the Star Tribune is impressed that Wild GM Chuck Fletcher hasn’t taken any advice from any other of the Minnesota area GMs.
• Pittsburgh draft pick Andy Bathgate will be playing in his grandfather’s shadow.
• The Calgary Flames players are looking forward to playing for a coach in Brent Sutter that expects the same things out of each and every player.
• Who will be the next captain of the Habs?