Jump to content

It's a Canadian Game

Blogger
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    170

  • Joined

  • Last visited

  • Days Won

    2

 Content Type 

Blog Entries posted by It's a Canadian Game

  1. It's a Canadian Game
    We are now into the third week of the season and already some teams have already been turning heads and make splashes around the league. The San Jose Sharks have come flying out of the gate having gone 6-0-0 to start the season and taking over the number one spot in the NHL Power Rankings. In Colorado the Avalanche are off to a 6-0-0 start with their new bench boss Patrick Roy at the helm. Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames, despite the overwhelming doubt heading into this season, have put up a very solid 3-1-2 record, not losing their first game in regulation until game 6.
    Now there are many different factors that can be attributed to the early success of these three teams, but one thing that each has greatly benefited from is the play from some of their rookies. So, in saying this let’s take a look at some of the rookies from these squads and see what they have done to help give their teams an early edge.
    In San Jose one man has stolen the show and arguably set the hockey world ablaze and that is 19 year old Czech sensation Tomas Hertl. Hertl, San Jose’s first round pick in 2012 (17th overall) has quickly made a name for himself. Through his first six games he has amassed an incredible 7 goals and 9 points. Hertl’s 7 goals to date are the most in the NHL.
    Hertl’s greatest accomplishment was easily his performance against the New York Rangers when he put up 4 goals including his highlight reel fourth goal where he was able to put his stick between his legs and go top shelf on Martin Biron. Hertl has quickly become a fan favourite amongst Sharks fans and already has defensemen around the league keeping a close eye. Although Hertl did garner a lot of criticism for what some believe to be “showboating” on his fourth goal against the Rangers, the fact of the matter is this kid has tremendous skill and a nose for the net and is in no doubt a big reason for the Sharks red hot start.
    Hertl's Fourth Goal Against the New York Rangers
    http://youtu.be/yMw4nksG7UQ
    In Colorado the Avalanche are off to a perfect 6-0-0 and though a lot of this success can be attributed to the new systems brought in by new head coach Patrick Roy and the unbelievable play of goaltender Semyon Varlamov another is the exceptional play of 2013 first overall draft pick Nathan MacKinnon.
    It’s hard to be surprised when the number one overall draft pick puts up big numbers, but in MacKinnon’s case there was a lot of
    skepticism as to where he would be taken in the draft this spring. It was until his stellar play in the Memorial Cup for the eventual winners the Halifax Mooseheads that MacKinnon put a stamp on that number one spot. However, going into this season after the draft the hype around MacKinnon seemed to die down.
    Well MacKinnon has been in the lineup for the Avs in every game so far this year and in 6 games MacKinnon has put up 7 points including 6 assists, good enough for most on the team. What may be more impressive than the numbers MacKinnon has put up is the way he has composed himself on the ice. MacKinnon, as he did in junior, looks to be one of the fastest players on the ice. For an 18 year old rookie to come into the NHL in his first season and not look out of place just goes to show how truly skilled this young man is. There may have been a lot of skepticism as to who this year’s numbers one draft pick should have been, but so far MacKinnon is proving the Avalanche made the right choice.
    Last year the Calgary Flames saw their worst finish in over a decade and with franchise cornerstones Jarome Iginla and Miika Kiprusoff now out of the picture many, myself included, gave very little hope for the Flames to make the postseason. However, after six games and a solid 8 points in the standings the Flames have shown they still have a bit of fight in them.
    One player who has had a real spark for the Flames has been rookie Sean Monahan. Monahan who was the Flames first round pick in 2013 has started his first NHL season with 5 points in his first 6 games for the Flames. In fact Monahan recorded a point in each of his first 5 games in the league, the first player to do this since Jonathan Toews did it back in 2005.
    Though Monahan is in just his first season in the NHL he may be relied on to provide a large portion of the offense this season for the Flames. Coming into the season the Flames highest point producers were Mike Cammalleri and Lee Stempniak who each only put up a mediocre 32 points in 48 games. The Flames clearly lack what many would consider a top 3 forward and with this absent from their lineup it will be up to players such as Monahan to pick up the slack.
    Monahan proved in junior with the Ottawa 67’s who finished last season with a 16-46 record that even on a struggling team he can still put up a lot of points and provide offense. Despite his team’s terrible record Monahan still recorded 78 points in 58 games. So, for Monahan it seems that Calgary might be a familiar setting for the skilled forward.
    Follow me on Twitter: @Craig_Hagerman
  2. It's a Canadian Game
    Saturday night Leaf fans saw the boys in blue and white pull off a very impressive comeback win in the battle of Ontario in their tilt against the Ottawa Senators. What the fans may also have seen is a glimpse as to how the team may look for a very large portion of the season. This may have been the game that saw Jonathan Bernier steal the net from James Reimer.
    On Saturday night Reimer got the start in net against the Senators having had quite a track record against their Ontario rivals where he had put up an impressive 8-1-1 record in his previous contests against the Sens. Unfortunately for Reimer, after giving up 4 goals on 21 shots (including the final two coming within a span of just 15 seconds of one another) Jonathan Bernier saw his first action at the Air Canada Centre.
    To say that this change in goal was the turning point in the game would be a complete understatement. The Maple Leafs were able to tie the game at 4 at the 2:52 mark of the third period and from there Bernier kicked out every puck that came his way. The Leafs would take the game in a shootout with goals by Leafs’ Raymond and Bozak, while Bernier turned away shots by Milan Michalek and Jason Spezza.
    The first two games of the season saw Reimer and Bernier split the decisions and after both tenders were named first star in their respected games it seemed as though the controversy about who might be the Leafs starting goalie this season was just getting started. However, after the events that took place on Saturday it seems as though Leafs nation might be singing a different tune.
    After Bernier made a miraculous glove save the crowd could be heard chanting “Bernier! Bernier! Bernier!” making it quite clear who their faith was now in. Many more of these type of saves followed during the game including a sprawling pad save on Sens Captain Jason Spezza with just over a minute left to play in the game. This save in particular was one that stopped what looked to be a sure goal and helped to send the game to overtime.
    To start the season it was made clear by management that starts would be shared amongst both goalies until one faulted or one seemed to rise above the other. Going by the schedule laid out it was already expected that Bernier would be starting Tuesday night when the Colorado Avalanche come to town. After the performance that Bernier put up on Saturday stopping all 15 shots he faced, it seems even more clear that Bernier will get the start and one must think that if he puts up another great performance that it will be hard for Carlyle to pull the hot net-minder from the net.
    Through Bernier’s first game and the action he saw Saturday he has amassed an astounding 0.974% save percentage and 0.64 goals against average, allowing just one goal against on 47 shots. Bernier has also proved his value in shootouts going perfect Saturday while also stopping Flyer’s forward Wayne Simmonds on a penalty shot last Wednesday. Historically this has been a part of the game that Reimer has never been very strong at.
    Despite just giving up 4 goals in the contest it seemed, especially after one puck went by him, that Reimer got flustered and lost his composure. Reimer has had a tendency to scramble for pucks often leaving him out of position and in desperation to make a save (as was seen on Jared Cowen’s second period goal). Bernier on the other hand has looked to be much more calm and composed in the net and because of this always seems to be in the right position and ready to face his shooters. Something that maybe Reimer needs to look at in his game if he wants to steal the net back.
    It is obviously too early to assume that Bernier has stolen the starting role completely from Reimer especially after just one game in which Reimer slipped up. However, it is hard to look past the great play of Bernier. Reimer will likely see another opportunity for him to claim the position that prior to this season had his name on it. In saying that if Reimer doesn’t step up his play it looks as though Bernier may achieve exactly what he came to do in Toronto. Leaf fans there might be a new sheriff in town.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  3. It's a Canadian Game
    It was a big day for the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday as they took on the Montreal Canadiens in the first game of the 2013-2014 season, coming out with a 4-3 victory in front of a full house at the Bell Centre. However, earlier in the day the Leafs were making other news when they announced that superstar winger Phil Kessel had signed an 8 year extension with the buds.
    Kessel and Leafs management agreed to an 8 year $64 million deal that will kick in next season. Speculation on an extension had been in the air almost since the end of last season, but serious talks about signing the extension only just kicked in to gear this past week. The speculation grew after Kessel had made it very clear to the Leafs management that he was not willing to negotiate and work on a deal during the season.
    What this meant for the Leafs was either get the deal done before the season starts or wait until the end of the season and risk Kessel testing free agency. Luckily, Nonis spoke with Kessel this past week, after his slashing incident against Buffalo, where Kessel made it clear to Nonis that he would prefer to remain a Toronto Maple Leaf. From here it was pretty easy for Nonis to get a deal done, that will now see Kessel play, what could be the rest of his career, in Toronto.
    Even on the eve before the signing, when speculation that the deal was in the works, many questioned the value of Phil Kessel with most critics believing that a price tag of $7-8 million was too much for the sniper. Most claims suggest that his defensive game was still lacking and that he was a very one-dimensional player. So, let’s take a closer look at Phil Kessel.
    It is no secret that Kessel’s biggest strength and asset to the Toronto Maple Leafs is scoring goals. Over the past three seasons in the NHL, Kessel has amassed a very respectable 89 goals. These 89 goals are the third in the NHL during this three year span behind only Steven Stamkos, Alex Ovechkin, and Corey Perry (all former Rocket Richard Trophy Winners). So, obviously he is among the best goal scorers in the game.
    Kessel finished the shortened season last year with 20 goals and finishing 8th in the league with 52 points in 48 games. Had last year been a full 82 game season, Kessel would have been on track to eclipse the best point total of his career.
    One other strength that Kessel has that he showed Leafs fans this past spring was that when it comes playoff time, he steps up his game. In the seven game heartbreaking series against the Boston Bruins Kessel put up 6 points in 7 games including a goal in the infamous game 7. This was pretty impressive for a player who had a history of never being able to produce against his former team during the regular season.
    However, this wasn’t anything new to Kessel as even while he was with the Bruins he was more than a point per game producer in the playoffs. While with the Bruins Kessel put up an impressive 15 points in 15 games between 2007-2009.
    Finally, there is Kessel’s defensive game. Now it is very clear that defense isn’t Kessel’s greatest asset, but under the reigns of head coach Randy Carlyle there has been improvement to this part of his game. In fact Kessel's plus minus has improved in each of his last two seasons.
    In the end it might be the man who gave him the hefty contract who summed it up best at Tuesday afternoon’s press conference. “… His contract is likely in the top 10 highest in the league, but over the past few years he has been in the top 10 in goals and points…”
    Yes, Kessel’s contract is the highest in Maple Leafs history, but Kessel has proved that he is the offensive backbone to this hockey club and he has constantly put up high numbers since coming over from Boston. He may come with a high price tag, but you have to spend good to get good and the Maple Leafs understand this. Suffice to say if the Leafs failed to sign their franchise player come next season, Dave Nonis and company would have a very hard time finding someone to replace the offense left by Kessel.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  4. It's a Canadian Game
    The NHL preseason wrapped up on Sunday night and with that hockey fans and players alike now wait for the official opening to the regular season this Tuesday. After a shortened season brought on by the lockout teams will be happy to get a full 82 games season in and a fresh start. One team that will really be hoping to have a fresh start is the Florida Panthers and with some interesting offseason transactions the Panthers may surprise.
    No doubt the most intriguing signing the Panthers have made is in goal with the signing of former Boston Bruin and Vezina Trophy winner, Tim Thomas. Thomas returns to the NHL after taking the entire last season off for ‘personal reasons’. Thomas joined the team on a professional tryout basis and after impressing the coaching staff signed a contract with the team.
    The Panthers were obviously very determined to sign a high calibre goalie after they sent tryout offers to not only Thomas, but also to Jose Theodore and Ilya Bryzgalov. Last season Jacob Markstrom played the bulk of the games for the Panthers playing in 23 games and posting an 8-14-1 record. However, after compiling just a 0.901 save percentage and a 3.22 goals against average, it is clear that the organization does not feel that the young Swedish netminder is ready to handle starting goalie responsibilities just yet.
    Another interesting signing for the Panthers was that of former 40 goals scorer, Brad Boyes. Ever since hitting his peak in St. Louis in 07-08, Boyes has never been able to eclipse the 40 goal plateau again. However, while with the Islander last season Boyes put up a respectable 35 points for the Isles good enough for third on the team behind only John Tavares and Matt Moulsn. So, with a fresh start and a bigger role as a veteran on a growing team, Boyes could be a very valuable asset.
    The most recent transaction that Florida has made heading into the regular season was signing veteran defenseman Ryan Whitney. After putting up 17 points in 34 games for the Oilers last season Whitney joined the St. Louis Blues this training camp on a professional tryout. After being cut by the team Saturday, Florida wasted no time signing Whitney to a one year $900,000 deal.
    Whitney brings a lot of playoff experience with both the Anaheim Ducks and the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he was even fortunate enough to hoist the Stanley Cup in 2009. Whitney knows what it takes to win and though he is on the back end of his career, by accepting a professional tryout he had made it clear that he still has a passion to play.
    Besides bringing in veteran players to the lineup, the Panthers will also look for big contributions from their young guns as well. Johnathan Huberdeau finished last season with 14 goals and 31 points finishing second on the team in scoring behind Thomas Fleischmann. So, looking ahead Huberdeau would like to improve on his Calder Trophy-winning season and prove to the team that though he is young he can be counted on to lead the team offensively.
    Next to Huberdeau is 2012 first round draft pick, Aleksander Barkov. Barkov was one of the most intriguing names in this year’s draft as many scouts believed that of all the skaters in the draft he was the most ‘NHL ready’ player. In fact some scouts even had Barkov ranked as high as number one in the draft, which makes it no surprise he was chosen ahead of Tampa Bay Lightning’s Jonathan Drouin and Nashville defenseman Seth Jones , who was believed to go second overall (where Barkov was ultimately selected).
    Besides these names the Panthers have a solid core with the likes of Kris Versteeg, Thomas Fleischmann, Thomas Kopecky, and Brian Campbell. Last season was pretty dismal for the Panthers, with just a few shining moments to look back on. However, management has proved that they are serious about bringing a winner to Florida. Many people may not have a lot of hope for the Panthers after last season, but this is a team that may turn a lot of heads this season.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  5. It's a Canadian Game
    Just days after announcing the signing of winger Mason Raymond, the Maple Leafs finally came to terms with restricted free agent defenseman Cody Franson on Thursday. The contract is a one year $2 million dollar deal which seems to have come somewhere in the middle from what both Franson and Nonis had been looking for.
    Throughout the contract stalemate, it was made public that Nonis and the Leafs management were very adamant about signing Franson to a multi-year due to the fact that in this upcoming off-season Phil Kessel, Dion Phaneuf, Dave Bolland, Nikolai Kulemin, Jake Gardiner, and now Franson will see their contracts expire. So, the Leafs were hoping they could take one of these names off the list of contracts to negotiate next season.
    However, for Franson he understood the cap had dropped $6 million dollars this year, that it would be going up next year, and that the Leafs were up against the cap. So, Franson believed that it was in his best interest to sign a one year deal to prove his worth and then look to sign a contract next season for a pay increase. In the end the Leafs gave in to Franson’s request for a one year deal, but made sure that the dollar amount was exactly where they wanted it, a compromise that both parties believe to be fair.
    So, with Franson now signed for the 2014 season there are a few things that are going to have to happen in the next week before the season opens October 1st. First, Franson will want to get his feet wet in pre-season action as the only on ice workouts he has had lately have been at practices with the Ryerson Rams. It is believed that Franson will play in the Leafs remaining two pre-season games Friday and Saturday both against the Red Wings.
    The second thing that is going to need to happen is figure out which defensemen will make the final roster and who will be sent down. It is expected that Dion Phaneuf and Carl Gunnarsson will stick together, Franson will rejoin his partner Mark Fraser, and that Jake Gardiner will be paired up with either Paul Ranger, John-Michael Liles, or rookie hopeful Morgan Reilly. As it stands it seems as though Reilly will likely be the odd man out and sent back to his junior team in Moose Jaw. In saying that, Carlyle mentioned Thursday that the Leafs may look to keep the youngster around for the first 10 games of the season before doing so. So, that final spot could still be wide open.
    Finally and likely the biggest and most important thing the Maple Leafs are going to have to try and do in the next couple weeks is make some cap space. With the signing of Franson the Leafs are now roughly $1 million dollars over the salary cap. In order to make room it is expected that the Leafs will put injured tough guy Frazer McLaren on the injured reserve meaning that McLaren would have to miss at least 10 games, but in the process the Leafs would be able to dump some salary.
    The other thing it is expected the Leafs will do is start the season with an 18 man roster rather than 23 to also allow them to play under the cap. Both these moves however, are only short term so it looks as though the Leafs are going to have to move bodies in order to make space. The move that likely makes the most sense for the team is moving defenseman John- Michael Liles.
    Liles, who is also pushing for a roster spot would likely fit outside of the Leaf’s top six and with a cap hit of just under $4 million dollars, moving his contract seems like the most viable option for the team.
    For now it seems like the Leafs will be able to get away with playing with their cap problems to at least start the season, but moves will need to be made. Regardless of what needs to happen it is clear that the organization is very thrilled to have their most offensive producing defenseman back in a Maple Leafs uniform.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  6. It's a Canadian Game
    The Toronto Maple Leafs made more news on top of all the mayhem that has been surrounding them after Sunday’s bloodfest, by signing left winger Mason Raymond to a one year one million dollar contract. The signing came as no surprise after the great camp that Raymond has had.
    Raymond came into camp after signing a professional tryout with the Leafs the day before the opening of training camp. The former Vancouver Canuck went the entire summer without being signed by anyone, but seems to have found a new home in Toronto.
    The 28 year old came into camp determined to show the Leafs and the rest of the league that he can be a very important piece to the right team. For Toronto it seems like that could very well be the case. This off season the Leafs said farewell to forwards Clarke MacArthur, Mikhail Grabovski, and Matt Frattin, all very speedy forwards. However, Raymond has shown throughout camp that he may be the fastest of the bunch. Raymond helps to bring speed to a lineup that has certainly gotten slower this off season.
    Besides his great speed, Raymond also provides great leadership and can bring a veteran presence to a very young Leaf squad. Though Raymond is only 28 years old, the Cochrane, Alberta native has been to the playoffs in each of his six seasons in the NHL with the Canucks and after coming just a game away from winning the cup in 2010 it is clear that Raymond knows what it takes to be a winner.
    This pre-season Raymond has been one of the most productive players on the team tallying 2 goals and 2 assists in three games. Raymond’s best season was in 2009-2010 when he lit the lamp 25 times and given the chance, he looks destined to do it again.
    Early indications suggest that Raymond will likely find himself playing on the third line alongside Dave Bolland and Nikolai Kulemin, a line that could prove to be very physical while also being very capable of chipping in offensively if needed. However, with the recent escapades that took place in Sunday night’s game against Buffalo and the impending 10 game suspension that will be dished out to David Clarkson, Raymond could even find himself playing on the second line with Nazem Kadri and Joffrey Lupul.
    Earlier in the week Sportsnet’s Doug Maclean reported that the Maple Leafs and Raymond had already worked out a deal that would pay the winger $925,000 for the year as long as he made the team. That numbered turned out to be a bit larger and now with this signing things have become a little tighter on the Cody Franson side of things. The signing of Raymond now brings the Leafs cap hit up to $63.7 million.
    General Manager Dave Nonis and company continue to try and find a way to sign defenseman Cody Franson. The Leafs might have to look at making space if they are still serious about trying to bring the defenseman back. One possible option might be trading away defenseman John-Michael Liles. Liles’ contract brings a cap hit of $4 million dollars, which would more space to sign Franson. One team that might be interested is the Carolina Hurricanes who learned last week that defenseman Joni Pitkanen will miss the entire 2013-2014 season with a leg injury.
    Raymond came into camp determined to make an impression on the Leaf coaching staff and battle for a spot on the team and he has done just that. With just three exhibition games left before the season kicks off on October 1st expect the Leafs to trim down the roster to what it will likely look like come opening night. This could mean Raymond on the second line, a far cry for a player who came into camp on a tryout basis.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  7. It's a Canadian Game
    It’s been a pretty busy past couple weeks for the Calgary Flames, the organization said hello to their new President of Hockey Operations, Brian Burke and goodbye to long-time goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff. With these two big changes to the club we could see some drastic changes coming for the Flames and after coming off their worst season in over a decade this past season, this should come as good news to Flames fans.
    With the departure of the franchise all-time leader in wins, filling the gap in net left by Kiprusoff will be very interesting. Last season in just 48 games the Flames used 4 different goalies and while Kiprusoff actually had the worst stats of the four tenders, recording a 3.44 goals against average and an 0.888 save percentage. The three other goalies that saw ice time for the Flames last year all saw numbers that ranged around 3.00 goals against average and a high 0.800 save percentage, both not acceptable for a starting goalie in the NHL. So, who takes the reigns this year?
    Going into training camp it seems that the position could be wide open to any goaltender that can impress Bob Hartley and the coaching staff. One name that could make a splash is Finn Kari Ramo. Ramo had a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Lightning between 2006 and 2009 and after failing to live up to the organization’s standards, Ramo left to play in the KHL.
    While playing for Avangard Omsk of the KHL the past two seasons, Ramo put up a save percentage of 0.925% in 2012 and 0.929% this past season. Ramo has also kept his goals against average under 2.00 the past two seasons. If Ramo can bring this same level of play back with him from Europe there is no reason why he couldn’t be the man to take the lead in Calgary.
    The other tender in the organization that is likely to be given the opportunity to prove he is starting goalie material is Joey MacDonald. MacDonald is coming into his second season with the Flames organization and after serving as a back-up with the Flames last year he is hoping that the departure of Kiprusoff means he will get the chance to finally play the bulk of the games this season.
    MacDonald played in 21 games last season going 8-9-1 while putting up a 2.87 goals against average and a 0.902 save percentage. Though these numbers aren’t spectacular, for a team that isn’t very deep with goaltending they aren’t terrible either. There is no doubt that if MacDonald gets the starting position these numbers will have to improve. However, at 33 years of age MacDonald is the veteran goalie on the team and he may finally get the chance to prove his worth to both the organization and the rest of the league.
    As for other changes that could come to the Flames, those could come from the new man in charge, Brian Burke. With Burke now in position as the team’s new President of Hockey Operations this means General Manager Jay Feaster will report to Burke. However, if Burke really wants to make a splash in Calgary and turn this team around relieving Feaster of his duties as GM might be the best thing he can do for the team.
    Feaster has been at the helm of the organization since 2011. After Darryl Sutter was fired Feaster, Sutter’s assistant at the time, took over. Since he has been given the job of General Manager, Feaster has both failed to bring in big names to help the organization while also trading away key players without a good return.
    The first of these trades being the trade that saw Dion Phaneuf, Keith Aulie, and Fredrik Sjostrom go to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for Nicklas Hagman, Matt Stajan, Jamal Mayers, and Ian White. Phaneuf has since been named captain of the Maple Leafs and has become arguably the team’s best defenseman, while the only piece left of the trade in Calgary is Matt Stajan. Stajan is coming off a season that saw him record just 5 goals and 23 points in 43 games for the Flames, to put things into perspective.
    The other big trade that Feaster has seemed to have lost on is the recent Jarome Iginla trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Feaster dealt the franchise’s all-time scorer to the Pens in exchange for prospects Ben Hanowski, Kenneth Agostino, and the Pens first round draft pick that turned out to be Morgan Klimchuk. Now although these players have yet to hit their mark and in some cases even make it into the lineup of an NHL game, it already seems like the Flames failed to receive equal value for the trade.
    The Penguins are a stacked team who have arguably the biggest abundance of talented roster players, which is why it seems shocking that Feaster would not have looked to receive a roster ready player as part of the deal. He could have added a player that could have helped the team immediately, especially knowing that removing Iginla from the lineup would create a massive hole in the team’s roster.
    Besides making questionable trades, Feaster has also been known to bring players back who have already served with the team (both on his own and while serving with Darryl Sutter). Feaster has brought back Oli Jokinen (now with the Winnipeg Jets), Alex Tanguay (now with the Colorado Avalanche), and Mike Cammalleri, players that never really panned out with the organization, but were brought back regardless. These players are all players that seem to have already played their best years in the NHL and bringing them back served very little to the organization.
    Burke needs to sit down with Feaster and discuss the direction in which the team should be heading and suggest in better ways to do that and if Feaster can’t make a change in how he makes transactions then maybe Burke should find someone else who can.
    In all, this should be a very interesting season for the Calgary Flames. It will be a season that will rely heavily on players trying to fill in the gaps of some of the franchise’s great players and management trying to find the best players to do so.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  8. It's a Canadian Game
    Heading into next season there is a lot of things to be excited about. For one we will see a full 82 game schedule, we will see a new realignment and new playoff structure, and we will also a lot of teams that have had a face-lift. However, as Michael Jackson proved, getting a face-lift doesn't mean you’re going to look better. One example of this, this upcoming season will be the New Jersey Devils.
    Now for the Devils this face-lift is a couple years in the making. Ever since they fell to the L.A. Kings in the 2012 Stanley Cup finals they have lost big pieces of their team and unfortunately for them it doesn't look like they have been able to fill in these gaps. During the 2012 off-season the Devils lost captain and superstar Zach Parise to the Minnesota Wild and now this off-season with the abrupt loss of Russian sniper Ilya Kovalchuck the Devils are without their two top point producers from the 2012 season.
    The Devils have now also lost David Clarkson to free agency as he signed with the Maple Leafs, so the question is who will pick up the slack. The Devils did make some noise bringing in veteran and future Hall of Famer Jaromir Jagr, but Jagr has already made it public that this will likely be his last season in the NHL. So, will he have enough gas in the tank to fill the hole left by Kovalchuck?
    The Devils also brought in tough guy Ryan Clowe, likely in an effort to bring a player in who shared a similar style of play to that of Clarkson, while also adding Michael Ryder. Ryder came off as season where he put up great numbers at the beginning of the season playing in Dallas, but fell apart after being traded back to Montreal in exchange for Eric Cole.
    These names are all huge question marks and anything could go. Jagr, like Ryder, was putting up great numbers in Dallas, but after coming over to Boston seemed to disappear. Despite making it to the Cup Final with the Bruins, Jagr’s contributions were not a big reason for the team’s success. Jagr is in no doubt one of the most talented and offensively gifted players to ever play the game, but is at the end of his career so his level of production is not anything like it was in the past. To expect anything upwards of 50 points from the Czech winger might be a tall order for the 41 year old.
    However, although these signings do help the Devils the fact of the matter is that they do not replace what they lost. Kovalchuck is a former Rocket Richard winner and 50 goal scorer, something that Clowe and Ryder cannot provide. Then there is David Clarkson, who put up higher numbers than both Ryder and Clowe this past season as well.
    The Devils did bring back Patrick Elias, Danius Zubrus, and their best defenseman, Marek Zidlicky. The problem again is that Elias and Zubrus are on the back end of their careers and their best years are likely behind them so big things are likely not going to come from these two. Elias did lead the Devils with 36 points in 48 games last season which isn't awful, but it was only good enough for 45th most in the league. If the Devils want to achieve great success they are going to need someone to compete for league high numbers as after the few names mentioned above the Devils production falls drastically.
    The Devils biggest move however was probably the acquisition of goaltender Cory Schneider, which on the Devil’s end was a great pick up. This deal was a steal for the Devils, especially considering they only gave up their 1st round pick in this past draft (who turned out to be Bo Horvat). The thing is that goaltending was never the Devil’s problem as Brodeur, despite not putting up incredible stats, has been a rock for the team and Johan Hedberg has been arguably the best backup goalie in the league. The move to acquire Schneider was one obviously looking into the future, as it has become quite clear that Brodeur’s years in the NHL are coming to an end. Even with that said, unless Brodeur plays monumentally bad or gets hurt don’t expect the future Hall of Famer to spend his final years sitting on the bench, he’ll still be the teams go to guy between the pipes.
    The Devils do have some prospects that are starting to emerge such as Adam Henrique, Adam Larsson, and Ryan Carter. However, these young guns are still maturing and likely aren't ready to take the team by the reigns just yet.
    The Devils could very well surprise and make a push for a playoff position this year, but when it comes down to it, the team is stocked full of players who seem to be either past their prime or haven’t hit it yet which could be a huge problem for them. So, unless players such as Jagr, Elias, Clowe, and Ryder can bring back their glory days and the likes of Henrique and Larsson can show that they are ready to take their game to the next step the Devils might be in for a long season.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  9. It's a Canadian Game
    Although it may still be about 6 months until the winter Olympics get under way in Sochi, Russia, speculation about who will be suiting up for team Canada this time has already began as Team Canada wrapped up its orientation camp Wednesday.
    Looking forward it is already clear that Canada will have to make sure that they do not make the same mistake they made in 2006 in Turin, Italy. Canada made a mistake when they tried to replicate the same team that had won during the previous games in Salt Lake City. That means that Canada and fans alike, should expect a number of changes to the roster if they hope to be successful.
    Looking at the roster that captured gold in 2010 in Vancouver, it seems there are already some names that are obvious additions and subtractions to the squad. In terms of additions the obvious names that stick out are Steven Stamkos, Claude Giroux, and John Tavares all of whom have grown drastically in the last four years and have become superstars of their respected NHL clubs.
    In terms of subtractions from the squad names such as Scott Neidermayer and Chris Pronger are obvious since they are no longer playing in the NHL. However, names such as Dany Heatley and Brendon Morrow can also likely be added to this list because of their drop in production to their teams in the last couple years.
    Now despite these obvious admissions and subtractions there are likely other changes that will be made to the team. So, here are a few more possible roster moves that could be made heading to 2014. After coming off a Norris Trophy season Canadiens defenseman P.K. Subban has to be garnering much more speculation than he was prior to this season. Subban seems to have matured more as a hockey player since playing under new habs bench boss Michelle Therien and this maturity may be the thing that lands him a spot on the team, as his skill is unquestionable.
    Pittsburgh dman Kris Letang is another name that might be an obvious addition to Canada’s back end especially with the omissions of Pronger and Neidermayer. Letang has become one of the most dynamite offensive dman in the league and would be a great asset to the Canadian powerplay.
    Another Penguin that could garner some talk is James Neal his solid play the last few seasons along with his solid playoff numbers might be proof that he can perform under very high pressure situations. Plus having some chemistry with Sidney Crosby couldn’t hurt his chances either.
    Oilers young guns Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle could both be possible additions up front as both have started to become leaders on a still very young Edmonton team. One name that is likely to not get much attention, but that I feel still should at least be in the back of the minds of those putting the roster together is Kings’ forward Jeff Carter. Though Carter only mustarded up 33 points in 48 games this season, which still isn’t terrible, 26 of those 33 points were goals. This means that Carter is a proven marksman, he can finish plays and his big frame and speed can make him hard to handle in the offensive zone.
    On the goaltending front Luongo is likely still going to hold the starting job. Martin Brodeur has turned down a spot on the team and Marc-Andre Fleury’s recent failure to perform in the playoffs when his team has needed him most has left the two other positions opened. So with that in mind the door seems wide open for almost any tender to come in and take the job. It seems that Habs Carey Price could be one of the more likely names to get a shot. After coming off a Stanley Cup win and a solid playoff performance, Corey Crawford’s name has now come up. Mike Smith is the other name being mentioned for the third string position, now that he has become a wall in Phoenix. Essentially, in the end it will likely be a fight for the second and third string positions as Luongo will likely hold the reigns.
    In the meantime there are also a bunch of names that might either have to play themselves back on to the team or on to it. A quick list of these players include: Brent Seabrook, Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Dan Boyle, Matt Duchene, Milan Lucic, Jeff Skinner, Alex Petierangelo, Mike Richards, and even possibly Jarome Iginla (who did not receive an invite to the orientation camp).
    For this group it seems that age is a big factor. It will be a question if the older players will be able to keep and stay competitive playing against the best players in the world and if some of the younger players will be able to handle the pressure and experience needed. Luckily all the names above have had international experience so all could be very viable options.
    One other thing I feel that Steve Yzerman and the team selection committee need to be weary about is the fact that these players will likely be able to play out of position if needed. It has been made clear that Canada has an abundance of very talented centreman. Crosby, Tavares, Toews, Getzlaf, Giroux, and Bergeron can all play the centre position, but with only four centre spots, I feel these six names are too valuable to be left off the team. Some of these players may have to play on the wing and I think it is important for Team Canada to realize this and understand that these players are among the best in the world and should be able to adapt.
    TSN recently placed Pittsburgh Penguin forward on the left side alongside Sidney Crosby as they felt Crosby would need someone he was familiar with on his wing. Crosby is the most talented player in the world and will be able to play with any winger he steps on the ice with. So, with that in mind I don’t think Kunitz will make the team.
    So to wrap it up here is my final roster for team Canada heading into the 2014 games, which I’m sure I will make changes to as next year starts and the Olympics grow closer. Also take into consideration that I am not necessarily making lines, these are essentially the names that I feel give Canada the best chance at repeating as Olympic Champions.
    Forwards:
    Nash Crosby Stamkos
    Getzlaf Toews Perry
    Tavares Giroux E. Staal
    St. Louis Bergeron Richards
    Ex. Neal, Carter
    Defense:
    Doughty Weber
    Keith Letang
    Subban Petierangelo
    Ex. Seabrook
    Goaltenders:
    Luongo Price Crawford
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  10. It's a Canadian Game
    On Sunday August 11th Nazem Kadri hosted his first ever charity golf tournament just outside his hometown of London, ON. Of course with the media all over the event, questions about his current contract negotiations with Dave Nonis and company arose. With just weeks until training camp opens up and teams get ready for the 2013-14 season, Kadri remains a restricted free agent and it seems that the two sides may not be as close as he would like.
    Just weeks ago Kadri made it public that he was not worried about how the negotiations were going and seemed very confident that a deal would get done. However, it seems that these same calm feelings may be starting to fade.
    The Leafs have just over $4 million in cap space left to sign both Kadri and Cody Franson, two players that were very key to the Leafs improved season that saw them make the playoffs for the first time since 2004. Kadri finished second in team scoring behind only Phil Kessel, while Franson lead all Maple Leaf blue-liners in points with 29. Franson's 29 points were one better than captain Dion Phaneuf's 28 points.
    During the 2013 season Kadri made $1.7 million while Franson brought in $1.2 million. It is clear that both players are due for a raise and unfortunately that is what is making negotiations so hard for both the players and the Maple Leafs' management.
    However, it is already believed that in the seasons following the 2013-14 season the cap will once again rise, which Kadri says he already understands. Now if both players are serious about staying put in Toronto and about receiving a raise then I believe there could be one way to make everyone happy.
    I believe that the Leafs could offer both players one year deals which include a slight raise from last year and then once the cap increases both players can look at receiving the pay increases they feel they deserve from the Leafs organization. This way the players would still get increases from last year, but would still be under the $4 million dollar mark.
    This is not a perfect way to solve the problem and it actually would have to have both players working together as well as with management to make it happen. If both players would not agree to this then the idea would crumble, but if they could agree it might be the best way to appease everyone for the time being.
    Kadri is coming off his first complete season (hard to say since it was a shortened season) and the same can be said about Franson as he played under a coach in Carlyle who kept him in the lineup. So does this mean that we should take this shortened season in a smaller light than a complete 82 game season? These are things likely all be talked about behind closed doors among the players and Nonis. This would also work out best for both sides as it would see both players play a full 82 game season and give management to see how the players can produce in a full season where they will also play against the entire league and not just their own conference.
    Kadri will also benefit this upcoming season as with the buyout this off-season of Mikhail Grabovski, Kadri will likely take over as the second line centreman, likely between Lupul and newly acquired Clarkson. This is a trio that could press for first line minutes and points, something that could drive up Kadri's price tag in the following years.
    Another key piece of the puzzle that will soon come into affect, if it hasn't already, is the contract of Phil Kessel. It has become quite clear that the Maple Leafs need to work on signing Kessel to a long-term contract extension and seeing as though Kessel has been one of the most productive goal scorers in the NHL in the past few years he will also be in demand for a pay increase. So, paying too much for Kadri and Franson is something management will not want to do if it puts Kessel's services in jeopardy.
    Kadri and Franson are both highly talented, important, and still young players that the Leafs would love to have back, but if they can't find a way to play within the money the Leafs have, either one or both players might lose their spot with the organization.
    So for now negotiations will continue, but if this summer has told us anything it might be that someone, whether it be management or the players, is going to have to give in, but with just $4 million in cap space there is only so much that management can do.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  11. It's a Canadian Game
    We are now into the conference finals and so far we have seen some great playoff performances from players that have really stepped up their game for the post season when it means the most. Players like David Krejci, Nathan Horton, and Pascal Dupuis have elevated their game and are playing some of their best hockey..
    The playoffs can be a showcase of what players can bring to the table when everything is on the line and players like the three above and many others have definitely showed that when their team needs great performances they can be counted on. However, in the same breathe there seem to be other players that perform outstanding in the regular season, that when their team needs them most, crumble and fall. For instance Vancouver fans are likely wondering where the Sedin twins disappeared to during their quarterfinal sweep to the San Jose Sharks. So with some players failing to produce at crucial times, the question seems to be: how valuable is a player if they play differently when a chance to hoist Lord Stanley is on the line.
    The biggest example of struggled play in the post season in recent years must be Pittsburgh goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury. Fleury has been, for the lack of another word, terrible in his last 2 post-seasons. In fact this post season has lost his job as the Penguin's starting goalie to veteran Tomas Vokoun. This has come as quite a surprise to many as during the past two regular seasons he has put up impressive numbers and has been a large part of the Penguins success, but this play hasn't followed him into the post season.
    Last playoffs Fleury had a 4.63 goals against average and an 0.834 save percentage allowing 26 goals in just 6 games. This came after he had a 2.36 GAA and 0.913 PCT in the regular season. Now, this year Fleury has a 3.51 GAA and an 0.883 PCT in the playoffs after recording a 2.39 GAA and 0.916 PCT during the regular season. In fact Fleury's save percentage has not been over the 0.900 mark since the 2008-09 season when he won the cup with the Penguins. So, has Fleury lost his playoff mojo?
    Now on the other hand there have been some players who seem to thrive when the playoffs hit. In recent year one such player who has seemed to save it up for the playoffs is Philadelphia Flyers forward Danny Briere. Though his Flyers failed to make the post season this year around, in the three years prior Briere has put up some of the biggest totals in the playoffs.
    In the three years spanning from 2010-2012 Briere put up an impressive 52 points in 45 games, including 27 goals and 6 game winning goals. However, when it comes to the regular season in these same three years Briere tallied 170 in 222 games. These aren't terrible numbers, but they don't compare to his post season successes.
    This off season Briere will become a free agent. This is a very interesting time for the two-time all-star as he is coming off a shortened season where he only recording 16 points in 36 games. So, will this affect him moving forward as he searches for a new contract? With Briere hitting the age of 36 the fear of not being signed could soon be a harsh reality for the star. However, is Briere still seen as a hot commodity because of what he can bring teams in the post season?
    It is clear that some players thrive under the added pressure of the playoffs and others drop off, but how do you measure a player's talent and value? Is a player who puts up great numbers in during the regular season and struggles in the post season a more valuable asset than a player who struggles during the regular season put steps up their game in the playoffs?
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  12. It's a Canadian Game
    The 2013 IIHF World Hockey Championship wrapped up a couple weeks ago in Sweden and Finland with this year’s winner being the host Sweden team. This year the tournament had its fair share of interesting story lines from the amazing place of the Switzerland team to France pulling off one of the biggest upsets in the tournament’s history. So, with the 2014 Sochi Olympic Winter Games just around the corner there might be some early signs of what’s to come in Russia when the world’s elite will play for gold.
    Canada once again came up short in the quarterfinals, losing to host Sweden 3-2 in a shootout. The early exit however, has become somewhat of a ritual for the Canucks over the past four tournaments. The Canadians have not captured a tournament win since 2007 when they defeated Finland 2-1 in the gold medal game.
    However, this year the biggest blunder by one of the stronger teams in the world came at the hands of the Russians. A very strong Russian team that included superstars such as Alex Semin, Alex Radulov, Ilya Kovalchuck, and Ilya Bryzgalov lost a shocker to France 2-1.
    France has never been a force in World Championship play, in fact their strongest finish in the tournaments history was 6th place. A finish they have never been able to meet since they achieved this back in 1930. To also put the loss into perspective, France did not qualify for the upcoming Olympic Games.
    However, the biggest story of the tournament was the stellar play of Switzerland. Switzerland finished the round robin with 20 points, good enough to be the top team from either pool. The Swiss defeated the Czech Republic, moving on to the semifinals where they will met the USA. In their semi-final match against the Americans, Swiss played another dominate game and took the contest 3-0, sending them to the finals for the first time in team history.
    The Swiss historically have never fared much in the tournament except for playing somewhat of a spoiler to other nations. The Swiss’ only other significant achievement came back in 2010 when they defeated Canada 2-1 for the first time in the tournament’s existence.
    The Swiss during the tournament defeated both the Czech Republic and Sweden (the eventual tournament champs), both of who will be in the same pool as the Swiss during the Olympics, which could be a good sign for the Swiss moving forward.
    However, it is important to know that the teams that are taking part in the World Championships right now will be greatly improved come the Olympics with the additions of many more NHL players who will join their fellow countries. Though, the approval of NHLers being allowed to compete in next year’s games has yet to be determined.
    So, heading into the 2014 Olympic Games it will be very interesting to see if more shocking upsets and Cinderella stories will be made. Could we be starting to see an emergence of new hockey powers in the world? For now only time will tell.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  13. It's a Canadian Game
    On Friday the Toronto Maple Leafs announced that their nominee for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy this year is goaltender James Reimer. Reimer was given the nod after he had a very mediocre 2011-2012 season due largely impart because of a concussion he faced in the sixth game of the season when Montreal forward Brian Gionta collided into the Toronto netminder.
    Reimer missed 19 games of the 2011-2012 season from what was first called whiplash symptoms, but later identified as a concussion. The injury not only removed Reimer from play, but after Reimer returned back to the ice he was never really able to get back in to the shape he was before his concussion. A start that saw the young goalie go 4-0-1 with the Leafs.
    Fast forward to the 2012-2013 season and Reimer has not only been able to give the Maple Leafs solid goaltending, but has brought back the same level of play Leaf fans got a glimpse of in his first year. The same play that sparked such nicknames such as ‘Optimus-Reim’, ‘the Reiminister of Defense’, and countless others.
    Reimer has not only put up great numbers, but he has been consistent all season. In 32 starts this year Reimer is tied for second in the league with four shutouts, tied for sixth place with a 0.926 save percentage, and a very respectable 2.38 goals against average.
    To those who are not familiar with the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy the trophy is awarded to the player who exemplifies the most perseverance, dedication, and sportsmanship. Each of the 30 NHL teams elects one nominee from their team, where the league then decides a winner. Last year’s winner was Max Pacioretty of the Montreal Canadiens for his remarkable comeback after missing a large amount of time after taking a vicious hit by Boston Bruins 6’9 defenseman Zdeno Chara.
    In many cases the trophy is awarded to players who are able to overcome adversity and in many cases devastating injuries, while remaining positive and playing at a high calibre. Fellow Maple Leaf sniper, Phil Kessel, won the award in his rookie year in 2006-07 with the Bruins after he had a tough battle with testicular cancer.
    Another player who could also be a favourite to win the award is Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov. The former all-star d-man had been out of the Habs lineup for nearly two seasons.
    However, because of the late start to the season, Markov was able to use the time to get healthy and return to the Habs lineup. Markov played in all of Montreal’s games this season and never looked out of place despite his long absence from the game. He was able to put up 30 points in 48 games, finishing tied for fourth most among all defensemen.
    However, for now Reimer, Markov, and the rest of the nominees aren’t focusing on the award as the playoffs are set to begin on Tuesday. For Reimer he will make his first ever playoff appearance when the Leafs start their best of seven series against the Bruins on Wednesday. The game will be the first taste of playoff hockey that the Maple Leafs have had in over nine years. Winning the Bill Masterton trophy would be special for Reimer, but there is no doubt that a taste from Lord Stanley’s cup would taste a whole lot sweeter.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  14. It's a Canadian Game
    On Wednesday March 20th, the NHL held meetings in Toronto to discuss among many things the lack of goals in the NHL this year. The number one reason many believe this problem exists is because of the size of both goaltender’s equipment and the size of the nets.
    The NHL is contemplating either reducing the size of goaltender’s equipment or to increase the size of the NHL nets. Goal scoring has always been viewed as an issue in hockey as it seems the NHL believes more goal scoring will please the fans. However, Mississauga Steelheads defenseman Jacob Graves believes from what he has seen playing in the OHL, the size of goaltender’s pads and nets is not a problem.
    “I feel the nets are fine the way they are.” Jacobs adds, “The goals are still coming so there is no need to change anything really, I don't find there’s a lack of goals,” says Graves.
    If changes were to come in the form of either reduced equipment size or bigger nets, not only would the changes impact goaltenders and the way they approach the game, but also for defensemen as well. Graves believes that with the more advantages and benefits given to goal scorers more reliance on solid defensive play will be placed on defencemen.
    “As a defencemen, if the nets were bigger I feel that we would have to get our bodies in the shooting lane more often and block more shots for our goalies,” says Graves.
    This is not the first time the NHL has looked to put restrictions on the size of goaltender’s equipment. In fact over the last ten years the NHL has made restrictions to goaltender’s padding on several occasions. In 2003-2004 the NHL reduced the height of the pads to 37 inches and put restrictions on goaltender’s gloves, with a fine of $25,000 following any goaltender found breaking these rules.
    In 2008-2009 the NHL reduced the width of pads, putting a cap at 11 inches. The move was seen as a way to create more openings for five-hole goals.
    Making adjustments to the game to allow more goals seems like it will be more easily met with an enlarging of the nets. As the rulebook states now, goaltender’s equipment measurements are determined on the size of the goaltenders themselves to make sure that every tender has an equal playing advantage. Meaning making changes to the size of equipment will not come so easy.

    NHL Pad Measurement Restrictions
    Recently, Detroit Red Wings head coach Mike Babcock has expressed his support for bigger nets. Babcock believes that when it comes to goaltenders currently playing when compared to the goalies of the past, goaltenders now are much bigger. Babcock argues that when it comes to the game now, goalies getting bigger means the nets are inadvertently getting smaller.
    “If the goalies [are] getting bigger then the net is getting smaller.” Babcock adds, “By refusing to change you are changing. Purists would say you can't do it because you're changing the game but by not changing you are changing the game,” says Babcock. (Quote from ESPN interview)
    For now the meeting held Wednesday was only scheduled for one day and other topics such as hybrid icing, video review, and the bargaining agreement were on the agenda with the goaltending issue only being a very small part of the discussion. So, for now it might not be until after this season before we hear about any changes that might impact the game for hockey’s goaltenders.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  15. It's a Canadian Game
    With seven games now under their belt it seems like there might be no stopping the San Jose Sharks, but is this year’s team a real contender or is history likely to repeat itself.
    The Sharks have started off the season a league best 7-0-0, a franchise record, but although this may be the best start the Sharks have had don’t hold your breath just yet. The Sharks have been no stranger to strong seasons or even post-season play, but as history as shown, it is once they make the playoffs that things start to unravel.
    In the past five seasons the Sharks have never made an appearance in the Stanley Cup final. They have been eliminated in the first round twice in the last five years in 2009 and 2012. They were eliminated in the second round in 2008 and eliminated in the conference final in 2010 and 2011. All these disappointing post seasons followed regular seasons where they finished atop the Pacific division every year minus last season where they finished second in their division.
    However, this season the Sharks are off to a roaring start and much of the team’s success can be attributed to the stellar play of Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Joe Pavelski and Anti Niemi.
    Marleau started off the season tying a record that has not been equaled since 1917-1918. Marleau started the season recording two goals in each of the first four games of the season. He is currently the league leader in goals having lit the lamp nine times in the first seven games and totaling 14 points.
    Thornton has also been the recipient of Marleau’s hot start. Thornton has amassed 14 points in the first seven games including 11 assists with most following a Marleau tally. If Thornton should keep up this pace he would finish the season with 75 assists and 96 points.
    Pavelski, like Marleau and Thornton, is also off to a thunderous start recording 12 points in seven games. Pavelski will eclipse the highest totals of his career in a shortened season if he can keep up his pace.
    What this line has also really helped to deliver is one of the hottest powerplay units in the league. San Jose has the 5th best powerplay, running at a 30.8% success rate and scoring 12 times. The trio alone has recorded 8 of those goals and has also been responsible for 4 game-winning goals.
    Besides being an offensive powerhouse the Sharks have also been very responsible in their own end of the ice due in large by the solid play of goaltender Anti Niemi. Niemi has put up a goals against average of 1.95 and has a save percentage of 0.933 both of which are among the league leaders in those categories.
    So, with a team that has been able to be nearly perfect in both ends of the rink thus far it would seem that the Sharks are an early favourite to win the cup. Unfortunately for the Sharks if they want to live up to this early hype they are going to have to prove that this time around they are not just a team that can have a strong regular season, but that they can also bring their stellar play to the playoffs.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  16. It's a Canadian Game
    Much of the hockey world is still in shock with the recent and very sudden firing of Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brian Burke. Burke took the job back in November of 2008 and after failing to get the Toronto Maple Leafs into the playoffs, the newly appointed owners of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Bell and Rogers decided that they had enough with Burke and made the decision to fire him.
    Now many reasons for the firing have been suggested including some belief that Burke was no longer interested in acquiring Vancouver goaltender Roberto Luongo, but the reason that has been stated is that the owners were not pleased with Burke’s “style”, but what is his style? What type of style did Brian Burke have that just didn’t sit well with ownership? Well let’s take a look.
    Brian Burke has run all his teams in a very similar fashion, which means that he brings certain personal rules and guidelines to the front office that he stays true to. Unfortunately for Burke it is these rules that may also have been part of the reason for not just his firing, but also for the lack of success in Leaf Nation. One of the biggest downfalls for Burke is that he has tried to mirror creating his teams the same way he did when he was the GM of Anaheim and won a cup with the organization in 2007. Burke has tried to bring in the same coaching staff (Randy Carlyle) believing that the same pieces that worked in the past have got to work again. He has tried to bring in as many players from the winning Ducks team that he can feeling, once again, that what has worked once before has got to work again. Names such as Mike Brown, Joffrey Lupul, and J.S. Giguere have all been brought to Toronto and besides the breakout year that Lupul had this past season, both Giguere and Brown have not contributed much to the Maple Leafs organization.
    Another rule that Burke stands firm on is refusing to go after players who have lengthy contracts. Burke has believed that towards the end of the terms of these contracts the players tend to simply milk money out of the organization. Now although, this may be true should he not also look at how these, usually superstar calibre, players can bring an immediate lift and spark to a team that needs one. One recent example of Burke failing to do so was when it became apparent last year that the Columbus Blue Jackets were shopping Jeff Carter. Carter is one of the strongest power forwards in the game and Burke refused to go after him because of his lengthy contract. Eventually, Carter would get shipped to Los Angeles, where Carter was a huge factor in the Kings winning the Stanley Cup.
    Burke has also been afraid to spend the big bucks during free agency losing out on players such as Rick Nash and Brad Richards, despite having the cap room to do so. Burke has also failed during free-agency season, believing that trying to get in on the frenzy during the first few hours or even days of the free-agency period is not necessary, despite that being the time when all the other teams are doing there hardest to ink the high-end players as soon as possible. In fact Burke was in Afghanistan last July 1st (the opening of free agency).
    Burke has also acted in a similar fashion when it comes to the trade deadline. Burke has always believed that teams aren’t going to make themselves that much better during the trade deadline and that moves are best to be made before the deadline hits. However, again most of the teams do their work during the last few hours of the deadline, working as hard as they can to add the pieces that can help make a good team great.
    Other odd personal rules that Burke has implemented to his teams are when he hires a new coach he allows that coach to bring in an assistant of their choice. Now although this does seem like an effective way of running a coaching staff, what this sometimes means is that talented and knowledgeable assistant coaches, that might know the team better, lose their job as well. Burke however, has received some praise for another one of his personal beliefs and that is the notion of putting a trade-freeze between the 24th and 26th of December. Burke likes his players to enjoy the Christmas season with their family and not have them worry about whether or not they might be moved at the time. Now although this seems like a grand gesture, you have to think if the opportunity is given to make a deal that could drastically improve the team you have to think that he must jump on that opportunity and make that deal. You can be a liked person, but at the end of the day you are running a business and sometimes you need to do whatever it takes to bring home Lord Stanley.
    At the end of the day Burke has always had a reputation as a personality like no other. He has always been known as a player’s GM, having the players’ best interest at hand, but it seems that many of his personal rules and guidelines have got in the way of success in Toronto and ultimately that is why Burke was shown the door last Wednesday.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  17. It's a Canadian Game
    So far the NHL has cancelled games up until October 24th so most of the season could still be played out and games that have already been cancelled could still be tacked on to the end of the season, barring a deal is finally reached. However, assuming this doesn't come to light, certain players may be more impacted than others.
    One name that comes to mind is all-star goaltender and future hall-of-famer Martin Brodeur. At the end of last season rumours swirled all over that Brodeur may be playing in his last season, believing retirement was imminent at the end of the season. Marty went on to sign a 2 year deal at the end of the season, but if he has to sit around and wait to play in his final seasons in the NHL is it maybe in his best interest to retire now?
    This is just one example of a group of NHLers that may go unnoticed when talks about who is impacted the most by the NHL lockout circulate. In 2004 this same phenomenon happened with another one of the game's greats. Brett Hull signed a contract for the beginning of the 04-05 season with the Phoenix Coyotes, a team that was looking to finally prove themselves as a contender. Now the season prior was the NHL lockout and the season prior to that Hull put up a respectable 25 goals and 68 points in 81 games. Great numbers for someone his age.
    So, Hull headed into the 04-05 season after a lockout with new rules and a much faster game. After only 5 games and recording just 1 assist Brett Hull announced his retirement from the game believing he could no longer keep up with new pace and speed of the game. Hull would finish he career with 1,391 points, good enough for 22nd all time. However, he finished just 35 points away from moving up to 15th all-time a feet that would have been very achievable had there have been no lockout during the 03-04 season.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrkTs4Ub8zI&feature=player_embedded
    A look at back some of Brett Hull's greatest moments.
    It seems that some NHLers may now be put into the same position as Hull and may lose out on that one last season. Besides Brodeur, this season also heard much speculation that Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson may be playing in his last season in the NHL. This made the all-star game in Ottawa this past season just that more emotional for the league and the city of Ottawa. However, Alfredsson decided the end of the season that he was not ready to hang up the skates just yet and that he would be back for another campaign. However, with the NHL lockout now in place have we seen Alfredsson's last game in a Senators' uniform?
    Next to Brodeur and Alfredsson, other players that may have to contemplate retirement this year or the next couple years are Teemu Selanne, Dwayne Roloson, Jaromir Jagr, and Jason Arnott to name a few. Lets just hope that once again we don't see the NHL ruin the chance for some of the games greats to hit those memorable milestones.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  18. It's a Canadian Game
    With the World Junior Championships about to get underway in Ufa, Russia one NHL team seeing some of its future stars in action is the Edmonton Oilers. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins for Team Canada and Nail Yakupov for Team Russia are both suiting up for their respective teams and captaining them as well. In recent years the Oilers have had a large representation at the tournament. The likes of Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, Sam Gagner, and Magnus Paajarvi have all represented their fellow countries, all outstanding and talented forwards.
    Drafting highly-touted forwards the past few years seems to have been the drafting strategy of the Oilers. Although these forwards all pack an incredible offensive punch are the Oilers starting to overstock on forwards? This past draft, Edmonton entered having the number one pick for the second year in a row. After having selected Nugent-Hopkins the year prior many analysts questioned whether Edmonton should look to pick up the top skater in the draft (Yakupov) or fill other positional needs such as a highly skilled defenseman or a goaltender. Edmonton finished the 2011-2012 season 23rd in goals against, with only the Ottawa Senators being the only team behind them to make the playoffs. So, help on defensive positions may be what Edmonton needs most. In 2012 of the top 10 players selected 8 were defensemen, meaning the opportunity for Edmonton to pick up a highly skilled defenseman was there.
    Besides the young blood Edmonton has in its system, they also have some other key forwards as well. Edmonton’s forwards include: Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, Sam Gagner, Nail Yakupov, Magnus Paajarvi, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Ales Hemsky, Ryan Smyth, Shaun Horcoff, and more. Of all Edmonton’s forwards, Hemsky and now Yakupov, are the only natural right wingers, the rest being either centremen or left wingers. Now this group of forwards is no doubt a very solid group. Each of the young forwards in time will be all-stars in the league, but how will the team fair defensively? A typical NHL lineup consists of 2 scoring lines, an energy line (a mix of fast and physical players), and a fourth line (typically made up of checking forwards). With players of this caliber of skill it makes no sense to either have players change their game or to omit an essential part to any team or trying to balance the ice-time that each will demand.
    On top of this once the entry level contracts of each of the young forwards expires there is no question that each player will demand a hefty paycheck, something that the Edmonton’s salary cap will not be able to accommodate. So, in the end some of these names are going to have to be traded elsewhere or see time in the minors.
    Edmonton does have defensemen Ryan Whitney, prospect Colton Teubert (who is a former first round draft pick and also suited up for Canada at the World Junior Championship in 2009-2010), and now Justin Shultz (who is tied for tops in AHL in scoring, with teammate Jordan Eberle, as a 22 year-old in his first professional season). Will these three be enough to hold the weight of the Oilers' defense?
    The question of whether to draft the best player available or to address the needs of the roster has been a puzzle general managers have toiled with every draft season. It seems in the past Edmonton has been drafting the best available skaters, which may not have been the best strategy, but only time will tell.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  19. It's a Canadian Game
    Over the past week we have the seen the likes of Ian White and now, Kris Versteeg voice their displeasure not just with the lockout, but also with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. White and Versteeg have both stated that they believe that the NHL has gone down hill with Bettman at the helm. So, this has brought up the question, when the lockout finally comes to an end will we see the end to the Bettman era?
    Since Bettman first took the reigns of the NHL back in 1993 the NHL has seen the players get locked out 3 times the second most of any professional sports league next to the NBA. The NHL has seen lockouts in the 1994-95 season (which saw a reduced season of 48 games), in 2004-05 which saw a cancellation to the entire season, and now this season (which as of Thursday has seen the cancellation of the first 68 days of the season).
    Kris Versteeg this past Monday on TSN's radio show stated that Bettman has been a cancer to the game and that means he must go.
    "You do try to look at the best case scenarios moving forward once the CBA does get done and you gotta look for the cancers and you gotta cut out the cancer."
    Versteeg continues, "I think when you look at Bill Daly and Gary Bettman, they have been polluting the game for far too long"
    Versteeg's comments came just days after Detroit Red Wings defenseman Ian White voiced his opinion about Bettman, being a little more blunt about the Commissioner stating, "I personally think he's an idiot"
    White, continued saying, "since, he's come in he's done nothing, but damage the game."
    Versteeg also believes that those who have suffered while Bettman has been in charge are the fans. "The fans have been left with too many bad tastes in their mouths for too many year and I think when this is all said and done it will be a good time to finally make that happen."
    It is no secret that Bettman is not liked by fans of the game. Bettman is regularly booed at games by fans. Some die-hard Bettman haters have even started websites voicing their displeasure with the Commissioner and the hopes of his firing. These sites incude www.firebettman.com and www.garybettmansucks.com, which have brought fans together to talk about... well I'm sure you get the picture. What may also infuriate fans and players alike is the fact that over the past eight years Bettman's salary has more than doubled to over $7,500,000; money paid to him by the NHL.
    The hate for Bettman has even gone so far as people suggesting that he no longer hand out the Stanley Cup or the Prince of Wales Trophy (awarded to the winner of the Eastern Conference) and the Clarence S. Campbell Bowl (awarded to the winner of the Western Conference) because fans tend to boo Bettman instead of recognizing the winners who deserve the celebration.
    In all it seems that Bettman is obviously not a well liked man and being in the driver seat of the NHL lockout is not helping his popularity. Although, many hope that Bettman will be replaced following a resolution to the lockout, until then those not pleased with his actions will have to continue to live with this so-called "cancer" until it can be removed.
    For more information check out TSN's article:
    http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=409856
    Follow me on Twitter: @Craig_Hagerman
  20. It's a Canadian Game
    This past Monday saw the induction of another 4 of the greatest players to ever play the game into the Hockey Hall of Fame. The Hall saw the likes of Mats Sundin, Joe Sakic, Adam Oates, and Pavel Bure take their spot among the game's greats. Now with that in mind lets take a look at some of the players who may get their call come next year.


    Brendan Shanahan (HFD/DET/NJ/STL/NYR)




    Brendan Shanahan was a dominate force on the ice and in his prime was one of the most dangerous goal scorers in the league. Shanahan ranks 11th on the all-time goals list with 656 to his name. He ranks 25th on the all time points list and racked up 100+ penalty minutes in 17 seasons. Shanahan played over 1,500 games in the NHL and on top of that had the chance to represent his country on several occasions including capturing gold as a member of Team Canada during the 2002 Olympics.


    Rob Blake (LAK/COL/SJ)





    Rob Blake was one of the game's most complete defensemen. Blake could do it all, he could put the puck in the net or he could put players through the boards. Blake captained the Los Angeles Kings and the San Jose Sharks and finally hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2001 with the Colorado Avalanche. Blake finished his career with 777 points in 1,270 career games, finding the back of the net 240 times. Blake took part in 6 NHL all-star games, won gold with Canada in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City, and was fortunate enough to win the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman in 1997-98.


    Chris Chelios (MON/CHI/DET/ATL)




    Chris Chelios was another one of the game's great defensemen in his prime. Chelios played both a physical and offensive game finishing his career with 185 goals and 948 points. Chelios played in 11 all-star games and ranks 12th all-time in penalty minutes with 2,891. Chelios will also go down having played 1,651 games (5th all-time) and for 26 seasons tying a record set by Gordie Howe. His 1,651 games is also the most by a defenseman. Chelios captained the Blackhawks from 1995-1999 and won 3 Norris Trophies and 3 Stanley Cups along the way.


    Eric Lindros (PHI/NYR/TOR/DAL)




    http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ed5VhR18hC8/TB7hz2b93UI/AAAAAAAAAX0/XmqI9EDHn7A/s1600/article_10827_2.jpg
    Eric Lindros burst into the league as by far the one of the greatest and most talented players to play in the NHL. He had size, physicality, and soft hands. Lindros was expected to finish his career among the greats, and although he put up impressive numbers ultimately lingering injuries plagued Lindros' career. Lindros suffered from several concussions during his career, his most severe coming from a devastating hit from Scott Stevens. Lindros would finish his career with 865 points in 760 games and a MVP title in 1994-95. Lindros could have put up much higher numbers in his career had injuries not plagued him, but he was still talented enough to be seen as one of the league's greats.


    Curtis Joseph (STL/EDM/TOR/DET/CAL/PHO)




    http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2fd6baeAw1qeev66o1_400.jpg
    Curtis Joseph or "Cujo" as the fans called him was one of the top goalies of his time. Although Joseph never lead the league in major categories he was always among the best in the league, being consistent throughout his career. Joseph ranks 4th all-time in wins and 5th all-time in games played. Cujo was part of the 2002 Olympic hockey team that won gold despite only playing in one game. Joseph was a 3-time all-star and was the recipient of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 1999-2000 for his leadership and his on and off ice contributions to his community. Joseph is tied for 22nd on the all-time shutouts list with 51 and should definetlly be a consideration for the Hall.


    Alexander Mogilny (BUF/VAN/NJ/TOR)



    http://www.legendsofhockey.net/LegendsOfHockey/trophies/winners/LBT2003.jpg
    Alexander Mogilny may be on the list because he is my favourite player, but he has also put up the numbers to make it to the Hall. Mogilny finished his career with 1,032 points in 990 games. He scored 437 goals, with his most impressive year coming in 1992-1993 when he scored 76 goals and 127 points in 77 games. Mogilny won the Lady Byng Trophy in 2002-2003 as the league's most gentlemanly player while also playing at a skilled level of play. He is tied for the NHL record for the fastest goal to start a game, scoring just 5 seconds in to a game. In 2000 Mogilny was a member of the Stanley Cup winning New Jersey Devils. Mogilny will also be remembered for his part in the 1996 World Championship when Russia despite a dominating performance lost in the semi-finals. It will be remembered because Mogilny was part of, what many believed to be the greatest forward line ever assembled, playing on a line with Pavel Bure and Sergei Federov.
    All 6 of these players have achieved a lot throughout their careers and may one day be immortalized in the Hall of Fame. Who do you think will make the class of 2013?
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  21. It's a Canadian Game
    This week has been full of optimism from everyone still following the on-going battle to see a resolution to the NHL lockout. The lockout that has now claimed the first month of the season. This week the NHLPA and the NHL met four times and for the first time in weeks it seems that for once both sides were actually negotiating rather than giving each other ultimatums.
    However, after the negotiations that lasted nearly 20 hours, through Tuesday-Thursday ,showed much promise the meeting that lasted 4.5 hours on Friday has put a damper on what looked to have been an impending solution to the lockout. The biggest issue that seems to be keeping both sides from coming up with a deal is the proposed "make whole" aspect. "Make whole" is what the players have been arguing for since the beginning of negotiations, it outlines the belief that players should have the contracts that they are currently signed to honoured in full.
    The NHL is hoping to put caps on both how much players can make a year and also a cap of 5 years as the max length players can be signed to under one contract. So, with these new rules being pushed by the NHL, the NHL has suggested it would like to avoid paying the players the money that have already been signed to. The NHL also wants to fix the ways some players have structured their contracts lately. In the past few years we have seen the likes of Ilya Kovalchuck and Shea Weber to name a few, structure their contracts in a way where contracts exceed 10 years and see players get paid large amounts in the beginning of the contract and then lower amounts towards the end. These contracts have not been taken kindly by the NHL and the owners because they realize that in many of these cases the players will not play the entire duration of the contract, but will still continue to be paid.
    The negotiations this week were looking very promising, TSN's James Duthie even tweeted Wednesday night saying someone who had been in the room during the talks said "there's potential". These thoughts have since gone down hill.
    Another source of controversy that came out of the meetings this week was the accusation that NHLPA director Donald Fehr had been withholding information from the players, such as proposals that NHL had made. This has been since been dismissed by both Fehr and several players.
    All in all this week was a positive to many as at least both sides continue to negotiate and try to hammer out a deal, but until then fans will wait anxiously with the hopes that a deal is a lot closer than it was a week ago.
    For an in-depth look at the meetings and the concept of "make whole" check out TSN insider Pierre Lebrun's view on this week's meetings.
    http://watch.tsn.ca/...3633#clip803633
    Follow me on Twitter@Craig_Hagerman
  22. It's a Canadian Game
    This past Thursday was supposed to mark the start to the 2012-2013 season, but of course thanks to the lockout we wait until a deal is reached. Now in the past few weeks some players have voiced their optimism of a new deal coming together before the entire season is wiped out, while others continue to believe there is no deal in sight. So, why is this?
    Sidney Crosby this week was one of the few players who made it clear that he thinks the entire season won't be lost. Crosby stated, "I can't see it getting to that point, I really can't. It hasn't even crossed my mind to be honest with you. I think, if anything, my thoughts are more just about whether the NHL has a date in mind (for the season to start) and just when they're actually going to start negotiating." Crosby believes that the fact that both sides have been meeting together and that negotiations are taking place means that they are getting somewhere.
    Wayne Gretzky is another who has voiced his optimism that a new deal will be made before the season's projected end. Gretzky believes that the real timeline to get a deal done is the Winter Classic. The Winter Classic this year is scheduled to be between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Detroit Red Wings on New Year's Day.
    http://youtu.be/RNrBJE_xtoA
    Wayne Gretzky interview about the lockout
    The Winter Classic has been pointed out as a date of interest partially because of the huge profits the game brings and with this year's scheduled to be the biggest so far the NHL would be stupid to let this opportunity slip them by. The game between the Leafs and Wings is scheduled at Michigan Stadium where the record for the most people at a hockey game was set in 2010. The plan for this game is to try and break the record of over 104,000 people by hoping to get close to 115,000 fans in the stands and with a wait list for tickets already in effect that doesn't seem to be a problem. Tickets for the game have been priced between $79 and $279 so NHL is looking to make anywhere between $9,000,000 and 33,000,000 on ticket sales alone.

    A preview of HBO: 24/7 from 2011 featuring the Flyers and Rangers
    Now although, both sides have been meeting including two more meetings this past Wednesday and Thursday, it seems that, like we've heard so many times since the lockout began, both sides are no closer to a deal than when the lockout began. This week neither the NHL nor the NHLPA brought any new proposals to the table, solidifying the belief that no solution to the lockout is close.
    Now for those hoping to stick by Crosby's comments, take them with a grain of rice because it was Crosby who said during the summer that the fans need not worry about an NHL lockout coming into affect.
    Follow me on Twitter @Craig_Hagerman
  23. It's a Canadian Game
    With the lockout still underway we have seen players take to playing elsewhere, I guess when you grow up loving the game and playing it for a living you will do whatever you can to keep playing. However, is this necessarily the best decision for players?
    This week we have seen the likes of players such as Evgeni Malkin, Pavel Datsyuk, and Ilya Kovalchuck put up good numbers for the clubs they have been playing with over in the KHL, but is this the best use of their time off from the NHL? Rangers power forward Rick Nash returned back to play for the same team he played for during the 2004 NHL lockout, HC Davos of the Swiss Elite League and this week he was forced to leave a game after taking a hard hit into the boards. Although it was ultimately determined that it was merely just a shoulder injury opposed to a head injury which many people had feared might be the case, it still raises the question if risking getting injured playing elsewhere is worth it. Nash had an MRI and it was determined that there was no significant damage done.
    A couple weeks ago Carolina Hurricanes young star Jeff Skinner decided that instead of reporting to the Hurricane’s AHL affiliate team for the year that he would rather continue to work out in Toronto. Skinner over the summer worked out with former NHLer and extreme nutrition and fitness guru, Gary Roberts. Roberts in the last few years has helped players such as Steven Stamkos, Jason Spezza, and Tyler Seguin reach the next level in their game. So, it seems that Skinner feels that continuing to work on his personal fitness is the best use for the time off until the league is able to come to an agreement that will bring an end to the lockout.
    Here is a video of Gary Roberts Biosteel Camp 2011, notice various NHLers and Junior players.

    Maple Leafs goaltender James Reimer seems to be in the same mindset as Skinner. Reimer was plagued with injury and some very inconsistent play last season after stealing the reigns away from J.S. Giguere at the end of the 2011 season. Reimer became an instant fan favourite as he brought the Leafs within a couple points of reaching the post-season. During this summer Reimer made it his initiative to get in shape with the hopes of getting back in to the form that Leaf fan’s fell in love with in 2011. So, like Skinner, Reimer has focused on getting in shape and working on his game until the lockout is over.
    So, what do you think, is playing elsewhere during the lockout the best decision for NHLers?
    Follow me on Twitter: @Craig_Hagerman
  24. It's a Canadian Game
    It has been a very busy last week and a half with many more NHLers flocking to Europe to find somewhere to play some hockey. In this past week alone Danny Briere, Claude Giroux, Joe Pavelski, Gabriel Landeskog, Andrei Markov, Zdeno Chara, Patrice Bergeron, Jamie Benn, and Matt Duchene have all packed their bags and headed to Europe. Now with news coming from sports outlets such as ESPN and recently Sportsnet that they will now be broadcasting some KHL games this season this may give a little hope for true hockey fans to see their favourite stars in action.
    However, what this influx of players heading overseas still, even after more than 20 days since the lockout was announced, means is there's a sign that a resolution to the lockout is no closer than when the lockout began. Last weekend the NHLPA and the NHL were at the table trying to hammer out a deal that would bring an end to the lockout, but like the other meetings between the two sides, nothing was accomplished and it seems that a deal may be a lot further away than most NHL fans would hope.
    During the negotiations the players have been meeting along with Don Fehr (NHLPA Executive Direcctor) to be more informed about the lockout situation, however many players have still continued to head to Europe. Does this mean that the players are aware there is no deal in sight? That's what it is starting to look like. Would players continue to sign contracts and commit to playing for other teams if they knew that an agreement to end the NHL lockout was just around the corner? That seems highly unlikely.
    Both the NHL and NHLPA have continued to meet privately in Toronto this weekend, but until one side or the other brings something new to the table don't expect any significant news. Fans looking to catch some hockey action in the mean time can catch KHL games on ESPN. The next game will air on Sunday October 13th at 9 am when Dynamo Moscow (featuring Alex Ovechkin) takes on Sibir HD.
    Follow me on Twitter : @Craig_Hagerman
×
×
  • Create New...