Despite heavy rumors to the contrary, the Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals will not be playing an outdoor game at Olympic Stadium this season.
RDS, a French all-sports network, confirmed with the Canadiens that the game is not going to happen. The Canadiens stated that the reason was because the CFL's Alouettes may possibly play the CFL East Final at Olympic Stadium in November and that there would not be enough time to set up a rink and all necessary equipment to host the game.
Stay tuned for Ted Leonsis' tears and complaints that everyone is against the Washington Capitals.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Versus to show seven Sabres games this season
For those Buffalo Sabres fans that do not live in the area and can manage to actually locate Versus on your TV this season, the station will be showing seven Sabres games.
The Sabres said in a press release that the seven games on Versus are the second highest total in the league.... behind Pittsburgh, Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia and New York (Rangers, not Islanders... Johnny T isn't that popular yet) who will all have 8 games on Versus.
The games to be shown on Versus are (games in bold are divisional games):
•7 p.m. Oct. 13 vs. Detroit
•7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 at Toronto
•7 p.m. Dec. 7 vs. New Jersey
•7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at Montreal
•7 p.m. Dec. 21 at Toronto
•7 p.m. Feb. 1 at Pittsburgh
•7 p.m. March 29 at Boston
The Sabres said in a press release that the seven games on Versus are the second highest total in the league.... behind Pittsburgh, Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia and New York (Rangers, not Islanders... Johnny T isn't that popular yet) who will all have 8 games on Versus.
The games to be shown on Versus are (games in bold are divisional games):
•7 p.m. Oct. 13 vs. Detroit
•7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 at Toronto
•7 p.m. Dec. 7 vs. New Jersey
•7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at Montreal
•7 p.m. Dec. 21 at Toronto
•7 p.m. Feb. 1 at Pittsburgh
•7 p.m. March 29 at Boston
Friday, August 21, 2009
Peters done in Buffalo?
Veteran enforcer Andrew Peters feels his time is coming to a close in Buffalo.
"I don't even know if there's been a discussion with Buffalo and my agent at all. I know that there wasn't up until July 1, and I don't think there has been one since."
"It's unfortunate, but I've enjoyed my time here. I've loved my time here. I've been through good times and bad, with successful teams and not-so-much. I've made some lifelong friends and played with some unbelievable guys. If that's what I come out of hockey with is great friendships and 200 games in the NHL — more than I ever thought I'd play — I did it with a great organization."
New Jersey has expressed interested in bringing in the Buffalo enforcer, perhaps to get more grit for a schedule that seems them faceoff against Philadelphia six times.
Peters believes there is still a role for the enforcer in today's NHL.
"You've got to be realistic: Fans love it," Peters said. "What is this game about? It is truly about the fans. It's about winning games and the fans. The only two times you see everybody in the building standing up is during the national anthem and during a fight. There are people who don't even stand up for goals. Win or lose, it's entertaining."
"I don't even know if there's been a discussion with Buffalo and my agent at all. I know that there wasn't up until July 1, and I don't think there has been one since."
"It's unfortunate, but I've enjoyed my time here. I've loved my time here. I've been through good times and bad, with successful teams and not-so-much. I've made some lifelong friends and played with some unbelievable guys. If that's what I come out of hockey with is great friendships and 200 games in the NHL — more than I ever thought I'd play — I did it with a great organization."
New Jersey has expressed interested in bringing in the Buffalo enforcer, perhaps to get more grit for a schedule that seems them faceoff against Philadelphia six times.
Peters believes there is still a role for the enforcer in today's NHL.
"You've got to be realistic: Fans love it," Peters said. "What is this game about? It is truly about the fans. It's about winning games and the fans. The only two times you see everybody in the building standing up is during the national anthem and during a fight. There are people who don't even stand up for goals. Win or lose, it's entertaining."
Sabres sign Cowan
The Buffalo Sabres have signed free agent winger Jeff Cowan to a one-year contract. Cowan is most likely head to Buffalo's AHL affiliate in Portland.
The left winger has played for Vancouver, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Calgary in a career that has seen him play 413 games over 8 seasons. He has 47 goals and 81 points in his career. He last played for the Canucks where he had 7 goals and 11 assists in 88 games.
The left winger has played for Vancouver, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Calgary in a career that has seen him play 413 games over 8 seasons. He has 47 goals and 81 points in his career. He last played for the Canucks where he had 7 goals and 11 assists in 88 games.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Penalty Box
Yet another item of interest that we'll be updating from week to week is an update on those northeast players who just can't seems to stay out of trouble. As the new season progresses, Adam's Division Blog will post penalty statistics and graphs. In the spirit of that, here's a graph for last season's northeast penalty leaders.
An honorable mention also needs to be paid to Mike Komisarek with a respectable 121 PIM. Toronto brought up the rear last season with penalty leader Pavel Kubina netting (pun intended) just 94 PIM. More penalty updates to follow once the 09-10 season gets going.
An honorable mention also needs to be paid to Mike Komisarek with a respectable 121 PIM. Toronto brought up the rear last season with penalty leader Pavel Kubina netting (pun intended) just 94 PIM. More penalty updates to follow once the 09-10 season gets going.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Northeast Fight Club
One feature we'll have here on the Adams Division Blog this coming season is the "Northeast Fight Club." Basically whenever teams for the division meet and have a fight, we'll post it here with stats, reviews, win/loss, etc. Here's a few inter-division fights from last season to get you in the mood:
Milan Lucic vs Mike Komisarek
Shawn Thornton vs Chris Neil
Andrew Peters vs Chris Neil
Paul Gaustad vs Jamal Mayers
Francis Bouillon vs Brad May
Sabres discount preseason tickets for kids!
If you live in the Buffalo area or you are a Sabres fan who will be in town with the kids, the Sabres have announced that children 12 and under can attend the home preseason games for half price (when accompanied by a paying adult).
The two home games are September 17th (vs the Washington Capitals) and 23rd (vs the Toronto Goon... uhh... Maple Leafs). Both games start at 7:00pm. Tickets for the games range from $20 to $45 at the box office.
The two home games are September 17th (vs the Washington Capitals) and 23rd (vs the Toronto Goon... uhh... Maple Leafs). Both games start at 7:00pm. Tickets for the games range from $20 to $45 at the box office.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Offseason Review: Maple Leafs
Well... Brian Burke certainly did not waste much time making the Maple Leafs "his" team. After finishing last in the league on the penalty kill mostly due to their porous defense, their defensive make up was in need of a change (too bad they cannot shed that atrocious Jeff Finger contract). It remains to be seen if Burke actually made the Maple Leafs better, but he certainly made them tougher.
The Leafs re-signed forward Mikhail Grabovski to a three deal. Grabovski was in his third year in the league, second with the Leafs, and put up 20 goals and 48 points on the season. He should continue to develop for Toronto and produce more in the coming season.
There have been many discussions about the Leafs apparent lack of scoring ability, but if you look back to last season they ranked 11th in the league (9th in the conference) in goals scored with 250. That is not exactly a lack of scoring potential. Yes, the Leafs lost Antropov in the trade with the Rangers (now in Atlanta) but the departure of him and Dominic Moore leaves more space for the Leafs younger talent to step in and show what they are made of. Let's be honest... Toronto is not winning the Stanley Cup this season. They do not have a team that is likely to get by Pittsburgh, Washington, or Boston in the East. Giving the younger kids time to play and show whether or not they are ready for the NHL would be another good step forward for a franchise was has not won a Cup in 41 years (second longest drought in the league). And with other 20 goal scorers such as Hagman and Blake still on the roster, the Leafs should be in decent shape going into the season.
Once dub as a future savior, Justin Pogge was shipped of to Anaheim for a conditional pick. Pogge never even came close to living up to the hype, but perhaps was throw into the fire too soon. After a less than stellar season it seemed as though the time was right, as Pogge did not seem mentally tough enough to play in Leafs Nation. Remember that trade that sent Rask to the Bruins for... Andrew Raycroft? Compared to Raycroft, Pogge was a stud.
Pogge became expendable once Burke got Swedish sensation Jonas Gustavsson's name on a contract. Nicknamed "The Monster" Gustavsson was said to be the best goalie in the world who was not in the NHL. He will start the season as Vesa Toskala's back up and will most likely be thrust into action as soon as Toskala falters... or has another trip to the IR. The Leafs have the potential to have an outstanding goalie duo if Toskala can stay on the ice and if Gustavsson can live up to the hype. The Leafs also chose not to re-sign veterans Gerber, Kolzig and Curtis Joseph, all of whose best days seem to be long behind them. To add to their goalie depth the Leafs signed Joey McDonald. He looked decent in spot starts down on Long Island and should be able to perform well if called upon with the defense he'll have in front of him.
If the NHL suddenly adopts Mutant League Hockey rules (great Sega Genesis game), they'll win a lot of games this season. Unfortunately, that is not likely to happen.
The Leafs had a huge defensive make over this off season. New faces on the blue line include Francois Beauchemin, Mike Komisarek and Garnett Exelby, who join a crowded defensive core that already include All-Star Kaberle, Ian White, Van Ryn Luke Schenn and Jeff "I still can't believe they paid me this much" Finger.
The three new comers added some much needed toughness to the Leafs line-up. Burke has gone on record saying he thought his team was too "soft" last season and imported some bruisers. Beauchemin is slick, probably under-rated, puck moving defenseman who knows how to use the body. Komisarek isn't going to light up the scoreboard but he's good at shutting down opposing team's offense and is feisty... sometimes dirty. Combining the new acquisitions with stand out Kaberle and young star in the making Schenn should greatly improve the Leafs penalty kill and perhaps generate more scoring chances on the rush. Toskala must also be thrilled, as the chances of him facing 100+ shots a night have now greatly diminished.
Toronto fans to also look forward to a lot of this when Boston comes to town:
The Leafs also signed Colton Orr, a forward who is not afraid to drop the gloves or use the body. With Orr on the ice, opposing teams will constantly have to be on the look out, unless they want to end up like Lindros. Orr is usually the first to step in for a team mate as well. Going with the theme here, Leafs Nation can also look forward to a lot of this:
The rest of the Northeast division might want to take notes to skate with their heads up as they cross the neutral zone.
Toronto also acquired Wayne Primeau in a trade. Primeau is way past his prime (if he ever really had one) but may be able to provide some more veteran leadership for the younger forwards.
Burke tried hard at the draft to trade up in order to re-unite the Schenn brothers, but ultimately was not able to. The Leafs instead drafted Nazem Kadri. Kadri has shown a lot of offensive potential and a willingness to play the defensive side of his game. Some scouts say he may be ready to step into the NHL right away, but regardless he will be a player to pay attention to in Toronto in the near future.
Toronto will definitely be more competitive this season. They are a lot more physically imposing and on some nights may just wear their opponents down. After finishing 12 points out of the playoffs last year, the Leafs may need a little more to get over that hump, but they are a team on the rise and will be interesting to watch.
The Leafs re-signed forward Mikhail Grabovski to a three deal. Grabovski was in his third year in the league, second with the Leafs, and put up 20 goals and 48 points on the season. He should continue to develop for Toronto and produce more in the coming season.
There have been many discussions about the Leafs apparent lack of scoring ability, but if you look back to last season they ranked 11th in the league (9th in the conference) in goals scored with 250. That is not exactly a lack of scoring potential. Yes, the Leafs lost Antropov in the trade with the Rangers (now in Atlanta) but the departure of him and Dominic Moore leaves more space for the Leafs younger talent to step in and show what they are made of. Let's be honest... Toronto is not winning the Stanley Cup this season. They do not have a team that is likely to get by Pittsburgh, Washington, or Boston in the East. Giving the younger kids time to play and show whether or not they are ready for the NHL would be another good step forward for a franchise was has not won a Cup in 41 years (second longest drought in the league). And with other 20 goal scorers such as Hagman and Blake still on the roster, the Leafs should be in decent shape going into the season.
Once dub as a future savior, Justin Pogge was shipped of to Anaheim for a conditional pick. Pogge never even came close to living up to the hype, but perhaps was throw into the fire too soon. After a less than stellar season it seemed as though the time was right, as Pogge did not seem mentally tough enough to play in Leafs Nation. Remember that trade that sent Rask to the Bruins for... Andrew Raycroft? Compared to Raycroft, Pogge was a stud.
Pogge became expendable once Burke got Swedish sensation Jonas Gustavsson's name on a contract. Nicknamed "The Monster" Gustavsson was said to be the best goalie in the world who was not in the NHL. He will start the season as Vesa Toskala's back up and will most likely be thrust into action as soon as Toskala falters... or has another trip to the IR. The Leafs have the potential to have an outstanding goalie duo if Toskala can stay on the ice and if Gustavsson can live up to the hype. The Leafs also chose not to re-sign veterans Gerber, Kolzig and Curtis Joseph, all of whose best days seem to be long behind them. To add to their goalie depth the Leafs signed Joey McDonald. He looked decent in spot starts down on Long Island and should be able to perform well if called upon with the defense he'll have in front of him.
If the NHL suddenly adopts Mutant League Hockey rules (great Sega Genesis game), they'll win a lot of games this season. Unfortunately, that is not likely to happen.
The Leafs had a huge defensive make over this off season. New faces on the blue line include Francois Beauchemin, Mike Komisarek and Garnett Exelby, who join a crowded defensive core that already include All-Star Kaberle, Ian White, Van Ryn Luke Schenn and Jeff "I still can't believe they paid me this much" Finger.
The three new comers added some much needed toughness to the Leafs line-up. Burke has gone on record saying he thought his team was too "soft" last season and imported some bruisers. Beauchemin is slick, probably under-rated, puck moving defenseman who knows how to use the body. Komisarek isn't going to light up the scoreboard but he's good at shutting down opposing team's offense and is feisty... sometimes dirty. Combining the new acquisitions with stand out Kaberle and young star in the making Schenn should greatly improve the Leafs penalty kill and perhaps generate more scoring chances on the rush. Toskala must also be thrilled, as the chances of him facing 100+ shots a night have now greatly diminished.
Toronto fans to also look forward to a lot of this when Boston comes to town:
The Leafs also signed Colton Orr, a forward who is not afraid to drop the gloves or use the body. With Orr on the ice, opposing teams will constantly have to be on the look out, unless they want to end up like Lindros. Orr is usually the first to step in for a team mate as well. Going with the theme here, Leafs Nation can also look forward to a lot of this:
The rest of the Northeast division might want to take notes to skate with their heads up as they cross the neutral zone.
Toronto also acquired Wayne Primeau in a trade. Primeau is way past his prime (if he ever really had one) but may be able to provide some more veteran leadership for the younger forwards.
Burke tried hard at the draft to trade up in order to re-unite the Schenn brothers, but ultimately was not able to. The Leafs instead drafted Nazem Kadri. Kadri has shown a lot of offensive potential and a willingness to play the defensive side of his game. Some scouts say he may be ready to step into the NHL right away, but regardless he will be a player to pay attention to in Toronto in the near future.
Toronto will definitely be more competitive this season. They are a lot more physically imposing and on some nights may just wear their opponents down. After finishing 12 points out of the playoffs last year, the Leafs may need a little more to get over that hump, but they are a team on the rise and will be interesting to watch.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Canadiens sign RFA Steward to 1 year deal
According to TSN, the Montreal Canadiens have signed restricted free agent Greg Stewart to a one-year deal. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Stewart played 20 games with the Canadiens last season, notching just one assist. In 51 games with the AHL's Hamilton Bulldogs, Stewart recorded 7 goals and 17 points, as well as 170 penalty minutes.
Edit: Deal is reportedly for 1 year at $500,000
Stewart played 20 games with the Canadiens last season, notching just one assist. In 51 games with the AHL's Hamilton Bulldogs, Stewart recorded 7 goals and 17 points, as well as 170 penalty minutes.
Edit: Deal is reportedly for 1 year at $500,000
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Offseason Review: Senators
Googling "Ottawa Senators" will most likely show a list of links that sum up what Ottawa's offseason has been about (not so much news as to the moves they made, but the move they haven't made).
In terms of signings, the Senators have had a fairly quiet offseason. They re-signed tough guy Chris Neil, who had apparently been courted by a number of other NHL teams but decided to stay in Ottawa. Neil adds character and grit to the roster. You won't see Neil on any Sportscenter highlights for exciting goals, but you will see a lot of this:
The Senators acquired Pascal Leclaire during the season and he is projected to begin the season as Ottawa's #1 goalie. The last few seasons have seen Leclaire on the IR more than in the net, but there's no denying the talent and potential Leclaire has when healthy. A full season from Leclaire (I know, asking a lot) could really boost the Senators.
The Senators also signed restricted free agent Brian Elliot to an extension to back up Leclaire. Elliot posted a 16-8-3 record with a .902 save percentage last season in spot starts.
The Senators biggest signing was of course Alexei Kovalev who moved over from division opponent Montreal. The Senators are hoping that Kovalev will use the move as a fresh start to re-discover his drive and desire. Kovalev has been bold this offseason, declaring that the Senators will be a Cup contender this year. Kovalev should provide the secondary scoring that Ottawa lacked last year.
Forward Mike Comrie still remains un-signed. Comrie has expressed interest in returning, but the fact that no deal has been made may indicate that the interest is not mutual.
The addition of coach Cory Clouston mid-season was a huge boost to the Senators, who had a nice turn around and almost snuck into the playoffs. Hopefully the team can carry the momentum, and maybe a full season under Clouston's system will be just what the Senators need to return to the playoffs next year.
Ottawa did not make any majors changes to their defense, a unit that performed well down the stretch. If Filip Kuba can stay heathly and build off his career high 40 points (26 on the power play) and Chris Phillips can continue his strong defensive play, the Senators' defensive corps should be in good shape.
The biggest issue with Ottawa is obviously the Dany Heatley saga. As trade options get fewer and fewer, it seems as though Heatley will be in a Senators uniform come training camp. However, this could certainly be a huge distraction for the team going into the season. Can his teammates accept him back into the locker room? Regardless of who made the trade demands public, the fact is that both fans and his teammates alike now know he does not want to be there.
Heatley did not help himself with the Edmonton scenario. He demands a trade, but then refuses to waive his no trade clause once a deal is in place? If you wanted out of there so bad Dany you should've have taken the option. Heatley is a dynamic goal scorer and a threat every time he touches the ice... but in the interest of the team GM Murray may have to cut his losses and take less than what he wants to move Heatley. Keeping him could certainly damage club house chemistry and the fans are almost guaranteed to boo him every time he steps on the ice. It seems as though Ottawa may be hoping Kovalev can convince Heatley to stay with the team and make amends, but is Kovalev really the best role model? This is the second time in Heatley's young career he has tried to force a trade. It is time for Ottawa to move forward without him, as Heatley is simply too big of a distraction.
Trading Heatley would also give the team salary cap room (assuming they do not take a similiar salary in return) that could help them acquire a big name defenseman, something they have been missing sinces the days Chara bolted south to Boston. Ottawa also needs another scoring threat or two if they want to be contenders in the Eastern Conference.
In terms of signings, the Senators have had a fairly quiet offseason. They re-signed tough guy Chris Neil, who had apparently been courted by a number of other NHL teams but decided to stay in Ottawa. Neil adds character and grit to the roster. You won't see Neil on any Sportscenter highlights for exciting goals, but you will see a lot of this:
The Senators acquired Pascal Leclaire during the season and he is projected to begin the season as Ottawa's #1 goalie. The last few seasons have seen Leclaire on the IR more than in the net, but there's no denying the talent and potential Leclaire has when healthy. A full season from Leclaire (I know, asking a lot) could really boost the Senators.
The Senators also signed restricted free agent Brian Elliot to an extension to back up Leclaire. Elliot posted a 16-8-3 record with a .902 save percentage last season in spot starts.
The Senators biggest signing was of course Alexei Kovalev who moved over from division opponent Montreal. The Senators are hoping that Kovalev will use the move as a fresh start to re-discover his drive and desire. Kovalev has been bold this offseason, declaring that the Senators will be a Cup contender this year. Kovalev should provide the secondary scoring that Ottawa lacked last year.
Forward Mike Comrie still remains un-signed. Comrie has expressed interest in returning, but the fact that no deal has been made may indicate that the interest is not mutual.
The addition of coach Cory Clouston mid-season was a huge boost to the Senators, who had a nice turn around and almost snuck into the playoffs. Hopefully the team can carry the momentum, and maybe a full season under Clouston's system will be just what the Senators need to return to the playoffs next year.
Ottawa did not make any majors changes to their defense, a unit that performed well down the stretch. If Filip Kuba can stay heathly and build off his career high 40 points (26 on the power play) and Chris Phillips can continue his strong defensive play, the Senators' defensive corps should be in good shape.
The biggest issue with Ottawa is obviously the Dany Heatley saga. As trade options get fewer and fewer, it seems as though Heatley will be in a Senators uniform come training camp. However, this could certainly be a huge distraction for the team going into the season. Can his teammates accept him back into the locker room? Regardless of who made the trade demands public, the fact is that both fans and his teammates alike now know he does not want to be there.
Heatley did not help himself with the Edmonton scenario. He demands a trade, but then refuses to waive his no trade clause once a deal is in place? If you wanted out of there so bad Dany you should've have taken the option. Heatley is a dynamic goal scorer and a threat every time he touches the ice... but in the interest of the team GM Murray may have to cut his losses and take less than what he wants to move Heatley. Keeping him could certainly damage club house chemistry and the fans are almost guaranteed to boo him every time he steps on the ice. It seems as though Ottawa may be hoping Kovalev can convince Heatley to stay with the team and make amends, but is Kovalev really the best role model? This is the second time in Heatley's young career he has tried to force a trade. It is time for Ottawa to move forward without him, as Heatley is simply too big of a distraction.
Trading Heatley would also give the team salary cap room (assuming they do not take a similiar salary in return) that could help them acquire a big name defenseman, something they have been missing sinces the days Chara bolted south to Boston. Ottawa also needs another scoring threat or two if they want to be contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Offseason Review: Canadiens
The Canadiens centennial season could accurately be described as a train wreck. They started the season as a team that was expected to go deep into the playoffs, but ended up a soap opera involving tales of a pair of brothers hanging out with drug dealers and gangsters, subpar play by Carey Price, and a search party for Kovalev’s heart.
In response GM Gainey did a complete facelift on the team in an effort to change the make up of a team that largely underachieved last season.
More than half the team was either not resigned or traded. Guillaume Latendresse and Tomas Plekanec were brought back. Latendresse had 14 goals and 26 points in an injury shortened season (played in only 56 games). If he can keep that momentum from last year, he should establish new career highs in goals, assists and points. Plekanec dipped from a career high 29 goals and 69 points to 20 goals and 39 points. However underperforming on last year’s team was like a baseball player doing steroids… everyone was doing it.
Forward Tom Kostopolous left the team to sign with Eastern Conference finalist Carolina, but based on the other moves the Habs made his limited production can easily be replaced.
The three biggest losses suffered by the Canadiens this offseason were the departures of captain Saku Koivu, Alexei Kovalev and Lucic punching bag Mike Komisarek.
Koivu was a lifetime Canadien and excellent on ice leader. With 641 points in 792 career games, both his productin and leadership may be hard to replace. It seems as though both Koivu and Montreal management felt it was time for a change. This leaves Montreal without a captain.
Kovalev is an interesting case. When he feels like playing he is one of the most dynamic goal scoring threats in the league. Problem was he often did not feel like playing last season. Kovalev left for Ottawa to presumably teach Dany Heatley new and interesting ways to take a shift off.
Komisarek was never the type of defenseman that is going to light up the scoreboard. However, he is an excellent defensive defenseman that plays very physical (at times bordering on dirty). Unfortunately for the Habs Komisarek stayed in the division, signing with Brian Burke’s new look Leafs. Fortunately for Milan Lucic… Komisarek is still in the division, so Mr. Lucic can continue honing his boxing skills before Komisarek inevitably turtles.
The team is not expected to re-sign defensemen Francis Bouillon, Patrice Brisebois, Mathieu Dandenault and Mathieu Schneider, or forwards Robert Lang and Alex Tanguay. After scoring 70+ points for three consecutive seasons, Tanguay’s production dipped the last two years and Montreal decided to go in another direction….
….and perhaps over spent on some of the “premier” free agents. The Bleu, Blanc et rouge Signed forwards Mike Cammalleri, Brian Gionta and Travis Moen.
Cammalleri scored 39 goals last season but was playing on a line with Jarome Iginla. However, this was Cammalleri’s second 30+ goal season in the last three years, as well as his second 80+ point season, and the Canadiens are banking on him to continue this trend.
Gainey made several… curious moves this offseason, the first of which was signing Gionta to a 5 year 25 million dollar deal. Since his 48 goal season Gionta has seen his goal production decrease for the last three seasons in a row. Maybe a change of scenery can help him regain his scoring touch.
Gainey also sent Higgins packing in a package that brought the overpaid Scott Gomez to Montreal. Historially Gomez seems to raise his production every other season. With 70 points in 2007-2008 and 58 points in 2008-2009, perhaps Gomez is do for another 70+ point season. Playing with Cammalleri should, hopefully, give both players a boost. Gomez is still a great play maker and the Canadiens are hoping he lives up to his price tag. Cammalleri and Gionta will add speed to the lineup and Gomez should have plenty of opportunities to show his play making skills.
Realizing the average height of their new line up was 4’10”, the Canadiens signed forward Travis Moen to add size, toughness, and grit to their lineup. Playing in a division that holds the Maples Leafs and Bruins makes Moen’s skill set extra important.
The Canadiens made significant changes on defense as well with the signings of Jaroslav Spacek, “USS” Hal Gill and Paul Mara. Mara and Gill inject size into the defensive corps of the Habs, while Spacek should add more to the power play. The signings of Gill and Mara should hopefully work to alleviate some of the pressure in front of the mentally fragile Carey Price.
The Canadiens brought in goalie Curtis Sanford to compete for the back up spot with Halak (although Halak is rumored to be on the trade block). Sanford showed some promised in Vancouver, but with Roberto Luongo in front of you on the depth chart, chances are you're not going to see much playing time.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that Montreal’s season largely depends on a bounce back year from Carey Price. Price failed to build off of his strong 2007-2008 season, much like the rest of the team. Price was also visibly frustrated during the playoffs after enduring taunting from the Montreal fans, who expect every goalie who wears their colors to be the next Dryden or Roy (you’re going to be waiting a long time for that Montreal). Price also seemed to have his glove hand replaced with a cement block last season, as teams constantly exposed this weakness.
Going into the season Montreal still has questions about their lack of size up front, and whether or not all the new faces can gel together to form a cohesive unit. They also have questions in goal… can Price handle the pressure that comes with playing in Montreal? Will he pull a Roy and demand a trade? Should be an interesting year up in Montreal.
In response GM Gainey did a complete facelift on the team in an effort to change the make up of a team that largely underachieved last season.
More than half the team was either not resigned or traded. Guillaume Latendresse and Tomas Plekanec were brought back. Latendresse had 14 goals and 26 points in an injury shortened season (played in only 56 games). If he can keep that momentum from last year, he should establish new career highs in goals, assists and points. Plekanec dipped from a career high 29 goals and 69 points to 20 goals and 39 points. However underperforming on last year’s team was like a baseball player doing steroids… everyone was doing it.
Forward Tom Kostopolous left the team to sign with Eastern Conference finalist Carolina, but based on the other moves the Habs made his limited production can easily be replaced.
The three biggest losses suffered by the Canadiens this offseason were the departures of captain Saku Koivu, Alexei Kovalev and Lucic punching bag Mike Komisarek.
Koivu was a lifetime Canadien and excellent on ice leader. With 641 points in 792 career games, both his productin and leadership may be hard to replace. It seems as though both Koivu and Montreal management felt it was time for a change. This leaves Montreal without a captain.
Kovalev is an interesting case. When he feels like playing he is one of the most dynamic goal scoring threats in the league. Problem was he often did not feel like playing last season. Kovalev left for Ottawa to presumably teach Dany Heatley new and interesting ways to take a shift off.
Komisarek was never the type of defenseman that is going to light up the scoreboard. However, he is an excellent defensive defenseman that plays very physical (at times bordering on dirty). Unfortunately for the Habs Komisarek stayed in the division, signing with Brian Burke’s new look Leafs. Fortunately for Milan Lucic… Komisarek is still in the division, so Mr. Lucic can continue honing his boxing skills before Komisarek inevitably turtles.
The team is not expected to re-sign defensemen Francis Bouillon, Patrice Brisebois, Mathieu Dandenault and Mathieu Schneider, or forwards Robert Lang and Alex Tanguay. After scoring 70+ points for three consecutive seasons, Tanguay’s production dipped the last two years and Montreal decided to go in another direction….
….and perhaps over spent on some of the “premier” free agents. The Bleu, Blanc et rouge Signed forwards Mike Cammalleri, Brian Gionta and Travis Moen.
Cammalleri scored 39 goals last season but was playing on a line with Jarome Iginla. However, this was Cammalleri’s second 30+ goal season in the last three years, as well as his second 80+ point season, and the Canadiens are banking on him to continue this trend.
Gainey made several… curious moves this offseason, the first of which was signing Gionta to a 5 year 25 million dollar deal. Since his 48 goal season Gionta has seen his goal production decrease for the last three seasons in a row. Maybe a change of scenery can help him regain his scoring touch.
Gainey also sent Higgins packing in a package that brought the overpaid Scott Gomez to Montreal. Historially Gomez seems to raise his production every other season. With 70 points in 2007-2008 and 58 points in 2008-2009, perhaps Gomez is do for another 70+ point season. Playing with Cammalleri should, hopefully, give both players a boost. Gomez is still a great play maker and the Canadiens are hoping he lives up to his price tag. Cammalleri and Gionta will add speed to the lineup and Gomez should have plenty of opportunities to show his play making skills.
Realizing the average height of their new line up was 4’10”, the Canadiens signed forward Travis Moen to add size, toughness, and grit to their lineup. Playing in a division that holds the Maples Leafs and Bruins makes Moen’s skill set extra important.
The Canadiens made significant changes on defense as well with the signings of Jaroslav Spacek, “USS” Hal Gill and Paul Mara. Mara and Gill inject size into the defensive corps of the Habs, while Spacek should add more to the power play. The signings of Gill and Mara should hopefully work to alleviate some of the pressure in front of the mentally fragile Carey Price.
The Canadiens brought in goalie Curtis Sanford to compete for the back up spot with Halak (although Halak is rumored to be on the trade block). Sanford showed some promised in Vancouver, but with Roberto Luongo in front of you on the depth chart, chances are you're not going to see much playing time.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that Montreal’s season largely depends on a bounce back year from Carey Price. Price failed to build off of his strong 2007-2008 season, much like the rest of the team. Price was also visibly frustrated during the playoffs after enduring taunting from the Montreal fans, who expect every goalie who wears their colors to be the next Dryden or Roy (you’re going to be waiting a long time for that Montreal). Price also seemed to have his glove hand replaced with a cement block last season, as teams constantly exposed this weakness.
Going into the season Montreal still has questions about their lack of size up front, and whether or not all the new faces can gel together to form a cohesive unit. They also have questions in goal… can Price handle the pressure that comes with playing in Montreal? Will he pull a Roy and demand a trade? Should be an interesting year up in Montreal.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Offseason Review: Sabres
The Sabres took the same approach to this offseason as they do with most... few outside moves, build from within. Management and coach Lindy Ruff seem content with the team they have and expect some of their younger players to step up and play bigger roles.
The biggest problem in Buffalo last season wasn't talent... it was health. When healthy, Buffalo definitely has a team capable of making noise in the playoffs. Unfortunately the injury bug bit them hard last season.
The Sabres re-signed forwards Patrick Kaleta, Clarke MacArthur and Matt Ellis and defenseman Andrej Sekera. Kaleta is trying to put his second half injury behind him and have a strong season.
Sekera is expected to build upon last year's 19 point effort and try to help replace some of the 45 points they lost when Spacek fled to Canada to help Montreal with their extreme makeover.
Buffalo's biggest loss is certainly Spacek. Twenty-two of his thirty-seven points came on the powerplay and that is not easy to replace...
... especially since Buffalo's defense got weaker with the addition of Montador. Ruff may want to really focus on teaching Montador how to handle the puck and not take penalties that even a pee-wee player knows are bad... often times at critical points of a game. Montador's time is Boston was largely disappointing and he has to prove he can get better. Buffalo also added defenseman Joe DiPenta, a former Duck. Despite the additions to the blue line, Buffalo would need to add another top four defender to really be a contender in the Northeast, especially after losing yet another defenseman, Teppo Numminen, to retirement.
Buffalo also seems unlikely to sign Afinogenov, who had a miserable season in a contract year. He often seemed distant and lazy and played with no heart. The Sabres will not miss him on the ice, as they could simply sign a mailbox to replace him.
Buffalo is basically set in goal with Ryan Miller. Before he went down with an ankle injury, Miller was his old, stone wall self and gave the Sabres a better shot at the playoffs than they really should've had considering all their injuries. If Miller can have a healthy season, he can make up for the short comings on D to a certain degree.
The Sabres definitely have enough weapons on offense to make some noise this season. Derek Roy started the season slow last year but still finished with 28 goals and 70 points. Vanek was having a phenominal season before an injury slowed him, but the sniper still finished with 40 goals and 64 points in 73 games, and all signs point to him building on that in the coming year. Pominville and Stafford are another pair of 20 goal scorers and should contribute even more to the Sabres attack this season.
And of course there is the oft injured Tim Connolly. Connolly must share the same gene pool as Marion Gaborik (and now that they're both playing in New York, perhaps they can share a hospital room). When healthy Connolly is a dynamic offensive force. In 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 Connolly played in 48 games each season, scoring 40 and 47 points respectively. The Sabres took a bit of a risk and gave him a contract extension. If he can stay on the ice, the Sabres will be dangerous on offense.
It is clear what the Sabres' biggest challenge is... staying on the ice. If the majority of the team can stay off the IR, this team will go places. If Ryan Miller is in the net, this team has a chance every night regardless.
The biggest problem in Buffalo last season wasn't talent... it was health. When healthy, Buffalo definitely has a team capable of making noise in the playoffs. Unfortunately the injury bug bit them hard last season.
The Sabres re-signed forwards Patrick Kaleta, Clarke MacArthur and Matt Ellis and defenseman Andrej Sekera. Kaleta is trying to put his second half injury behind him and have a strong season.
Sekera is expected to build upon last year's 19 point effort and try to help replace some of the 45 points they lost when Spacek fled to Canada to help Montreal with their extreme makeover.
Buffalo's biggest loss is certainly Spacek. Twenty-two of his thirty-seven points came on the powerplay and that is not easy to replace...
... especially since Buffalo's defense got weaker with the addition of Montador. Ruff may want to really focus on teaching Montador how to handle the puck and not take penalties that even a pee-wee player knows are bad... often times at critical points of a game. Montador's time is Boston was largely disappointing and he has to prove he can get better. Buffalo also added defenseman Joe DiPenta, a former Duck. Despite the additions to the blue line, Buffalo would need to add another top four defender to really be a contender in the Northeast, especially after losing yet another defenseman, Teppo Numminen, to retirement.
Buffalo also seems unlikely to sign Afinogenov, who had a miserable season in a contract year. He often seemed distant and lazy and played with no heart. The Sabres will not miss him on the ice, as they could simply sign a mailbox to replace him.
Buffalo is basically set in goal with Ryan Miller. Before he went down with an ankle injury, Miller was his old, stone wall self and gave the Sabres a better shot at the playoffs than they really should've had considering all their injuries. If Miller can have a healthy season, he can make up for the short comings on D to a certain degree.
The Sabres definitely have enough weapons on offense to make some noise this season. Derek Roy started the season slow last year but still finished with 28 goals and 70 points. Vanek was having a phenominal season before an injury slowed him, but the sniper still finished with 40 goals and 64 points in 73 games, and all signs point to him building on that in the coming year. Pominville and Stafford are another pair of 20 goal scorers and should contribute even more to the Sabres attack this season.
And of course there is the oft injured Tim Connolly. Connolly must share the same gene pool as Marion Gaborik (and now that they're both playing in New York, perhaps they can share a hospital room). When healthy Connolly is a dynamic offensive force. In 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 Connolly played in 48 games each season, scoring 40 and 47 points respectively. The Sabres took a bit of a risk and gave him a contract extension. If he can stay on the ice, the Sabres will be dangerous on offense.
It is clear what the Sabres' biggest challenge is... staying on the ice. If the majority of the team can stay off the IR, this team will go places. If Ryan Miller is in the net, this team has a chance every night regardless.
Offseason Review: Bruins
The Bruins line up will look fairly similiar to the team that suffered a second round defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Bruins re-signed forwards Byron Bitz and Mark Recchi and defensemen Matt Hunwick (minus spleen) and AHL standout Johnny Boychuk.
Key losses, and I use that term loosely, include defensemen Steve Montador and Shane Hnidy, forwards PJ Axelsson and Stephane Yelle and goaltender Manny Fernandez. Montador was a trade deadline acquisition that never quite panned out for Boston. He did have quite a few assists in the conferene semi-finals against the Hurricanes... unfortunately they were passes to Eric Staal.
Hnidy was a Boston fan favorite, Sheriff Shane as he was called, but has slowed considerably over the past few years, and Boston is trying to get younger and faster on D.
Axelsson was the longest tenured Bruin remaining on the team (this title now belongs to Tim Thomas). While he was never an offensive force Axelsson had a great hockey mind and was great on the penalty kill, forecheck and backcheck. Hopefully some of the younger Bruins (Lucic, Bitz, Wheeler, etc) picked up some of PJ's traits. PJ heads back home to Sweden.
Yelle was a fourth line role player, but was great at what he did. He and Thornton (Shawn, not Joe) were a disruptive team on Boston's fairly successful fourth line.
Fernandez was part of the Jennings winning tag team with Vezina winner Tim Thomas, however he had injury trouble during much of the second half of the season. The Bruins decided not to re-sign him in the off-season and instead promoted Tuuka Rask to back up Tim Thomas.
Or did they? The Bruins signed free agent goaltender Dany Sabourin and GM Peter Chiarelli claims "Sabu" and Rask will compete for the back up job. Expect Rask to win the back up job. Sabourin has stated he wants a chance at a starting position... but he may not even have the talent to be an AHL starter full time.
The Bruins also signed forward Steve Begin to add even more toughness for the fourth line. The former Hab will spend time watching Savard's back instead of breaking it.
The Bruins traded another fan favorite (and former Scott Walker punching bag) Aaron Ward to Carolina for Patrick Eaves and a draft pick. Ward was another casuality in the Bruins effort to get younger and faster. Many thought this trade was a move to free up cap space to sign Phil "Thrill" Kessel, but the Bruins signed free agent defenseman Derek Morris. Morris is certainly younger than Ward, but will have to prove to fans that he is enough of an upgrade over Ward to earn that 3.3 million price tag. Jacobs' cheapness then raised its ugly head again when Eaves was bought out, further reducing Boston's cap number for players not on the roster.
The Bruins also signed defenseman Rob Kwiet, Zach McKelvie and Drew Fat, and forwards Drew Larman and TrentWhitfield, all of whom are expected to provide depth for the baby Bruins down in Providence.
The team should expect a boost in the scoring department with the return of Marco Sturm, who missed the majority of last season after having surgery on his left knee to repair a torn meniscus. He had 7 goals and 13 points through the first 19 games of the season.
The only remaining piece of business for the Bruins is restricted free agent Phil Kessel. Kessel had a break out season last year, scoring 36 goals despite missing time with both mono and a shoulder injury. Kessel's agent has said in interviews that negotiations are at a stand still. Chiarelli may not be in a rush to re-sign Kessel, as he will be on the Long Term Injured Reserve listed to start the season due to off-season shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum and will not count against the team's cap number until he returns.
The Bruins would certainly have to clear cap space in order to re-sign Kessel. Various rumors focus on either Kobasew, Sturm, or Savard being traded. Both Sturm and Savard have no trade clauses and Savard was by far the Bruins best forward last year. Though he only has one year remaining and would get a decent trade return, the Bruins Cup hopes reduce considerably if Savard is traded.
The hesitation with Kessel seems to be what is perceived as a lack of work ethic and desire to be better. Other GMs around the league have said that Kessel is not, and may never be, a player who gives a team a better chance to win on his own. While he did score 36 goals many wonder whether Kessel can build on that and continue to score high totals, or if he will be like so many others (Cheechoo anyone?) and see a dramatic reduction after a break out campaign.
Even without Kessel the Bruins start the season with a good lineup, an improved defensive corps, and a great chance to finish near the top of the conference for the second year in a row.
The Bruins re-signed forwards Byron Bitz and Mark Recchi and defensemen Matt Hunwick (minus spleen) and AHL standout Johnny Boychuk.
Key losses, and I use that term loosely, include defensemen Steve Montador and Shane Hnidy, forwards PJ Axelsson and Stephane Yelle and goaltender Manny Fernandez. Montador was a trade deadline acquisition that never quite panned out for Boston. He did have quite a few assists in the conferene semi-finals against the Hurricanes... unfortunately they were passes to Eric Staal.
Hnidy was a Boston fan favorite, Sheriff Shane as he was called, but has slowed considerably over the past few years, and Boston is trying to get younger and faster on D.
Axelsson was the longest tenured Bruin remaining on the team (this title now belongs to Tim Thomas). While he was never an offensive force Axelsson had a great hockey mind and was great on the penalty kill, forecheck and backcheck. Hopefully some of the younger Bruins (Lucic, Bitz, Wheeler, etc) picked up some of PJ's traits. PJ heads back home to Sweden.
Yelle was a fourth line role player, but was great at what he did. He and Thornton (Shawn, not Joe) were a disruptive team on Boston's fairly successful fourth line.
Fernandez was part of the Jennings winning tag team with Vezina winner Tim Thomas, however he had injury trouble during much of the second half of the season. The Bruins decided not to re-sign him in the off-season and instead promoted Tuuka Rask to back up Tim Thomas.
Or did they? The Bruins signed free agent goaltender Dany Sabourin and GM Peter Chiarelli claims "Sabu" and Rask will compete for the back up job. Expect Rask to win the back up job. Sabourin has stated he wants a chance at a starting position... but he may not even have the talent to be an AHL starter full time.
The Bruins also signed forward Steve Begin to add even more toughness for the fourth line. The former Hab will spend time watching Savard's back instead of breaking it.
The Bruins traded another fan favorite (and former Scott Walker punching bag) Aaron Ward to Carolina for Patrick Eaves and a draft pick. Ward was another casuality in the Bruins effort to get younger and faster. Many thought this trade was a move to free up cap space to sign Phil "Thrill" Kessel, but the Bruins signed free agent defenseman Derek Morris. Morris is certainly younger than Ward, but will have to prove to fans that he is enough of an upgrade over Ward to earn that 3.3 million price tag. Jacobs' cheapness then raised its ugly head again when Eaves was bought out, further reducing Boston's cap number for players not on the roster.
The Bruins also signed defenseman Rob Kwiet, Zach McKelvie and Drew Fat, and forwards Drew Larman and TrentWhitfield, all of whom are expected to provide depth for the baby Bruins down in Providence.
The team should expect a boost in the scoring department with the return of Marco Sturm, who missed the majority of last season after having surgery on his left knee to repair a torn meniscus. He had 7 goals and 13 points through the first 19 games of the season.
The only remaining piece of business for the Bruins is restricted free agent Phil Kessel. Kessel had a break out season last year, scoring 36 goals despite missing time with both mono and a shoulder injury. Kessel's agent has said in interviews that negotiations are at a stand still. Chiarelli may not be in a rush to re-sign Kessel, as he will be on the Long Term Injured Reserve listed to start the season due to off-season shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum and will not count against the team's cap number until he returns.
The Bruins would certainly have to clear cap space in order to re-sign Kessel. Various rumors focus on either Kobasew, Sturm, or Savard being traded. Both Sturm and Savard have no trade clauses and Savard was by far the Bruins best forward last year. Though he only has one year remaining and would get a decent trade return, the Bruins Cup hopes reduce considerably if Savard is traded.
The hesitation with Kessel seems to be what is perceived as a lack of work ethic and desire to be better. Other GMs around the league have said that Kessel is not, and may never be, a player who gives a team a better chance to win on his own. While he did score 36 goals many wonder whether Kessel can build on that and continue to score high totals, or if he will be like so many others (Cheechoo anyone?) and see a dramatic reduction after a break out campaign.
Even without Kessel the Bruins start the season with a good lineup, an improved defensive corps, and a great chance to finish near the top of the conference for the second year in a row.
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