REGINA PATS
#33 – Shaun Fleming – Goaltender – The Regina native spent parts of two seasons with the Regina Pats after starting his WHL career with the Spokane Chiefs. He was with the Pats from 1998-2000.
#1 – Rod Houk – Goaltender – A native of Regina, played in 117 games between the pipes for the Regina Pats in the 1987-88 and the 1988-89 seasons. Houk was a Minnesota North Stars pick in the 1990 NHL Supplemental Draft. From there he went on to the University of Regina, before embarking on a 5 year pro career.
#2 – Gord Wappel – Defence – Wappel is a native of Regina and former Captain of the blue and white. He played 4 seasons from 1974 to 1978 and was a 5th round pick of the Atlanta Flames in the 1978 NHL Amateur Draft before embarking on a 5 year pro career.
#2 – Chad Wilchynski – Defence – Wilchynski is a Regina native that played parts of 4 seasons with the Regina Pats from 1993 to 1997 before finishing his career with the Medicine Hat Tigers and Kelowna Rockets. He was a 5th round pick of the Detroit Red Wings in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft and played 7 seasons of pro hockey.
#3 John Miner – Defence – Miner is originally from Moose Jaw and spent 4 seasons with the Regina Pats from 1981 to 1985. He helped lead the Pats to the WHL final in 1984 where he was 4th in playoff scoring with 34 points in 23 games. Miner was drafted in the 11th round of the 1983 NHL Entry Draft before embarking on a long pro career in both North America and Europe.
#4 – Kyle Deck – Defenceman – From Sedley, Saskatchewan, he was a 5 year member of the blue and white, playing from 2002-03 season to the 2006-07 season. He is a former captain of the Regina Pats, the made stops with the University of Regina and 2 seasons of pro hockey.
#7 – Chris Anderson – Forward - From Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Chris Anderson played parts of four seasons with the Tri-City Americans before being sent to the Regina Pats half way through the 1998-99 season. He spent his 20 year old season with the blue and white in 1999-2000
#10 – Doug Trapp – Forward - From Balcarres, Saskatchewan, Doug Trap played three seasons with the Regina Pats from 1982-83 to 1984-85 accumulating 252 points. He was a second overall pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 1984 and played 2 seasons with the Rochester Americans.
#11 – Nevin Markwart – Forward - From Toronto, Ontario, Nevin Markwart played 2 seasons with the Regina Pats in 1981-82 and 82-83. He was a 1st round pick of the Boston Bruins in 1983 and spent 9 seasons with the Bruins and Calgary Flames.
#13 – Brandon Coates – Left Wing – Coates is a Regina native that played with the blue and white for two seasons in 1992-93 and 1993-94 after beginning his WHL career with the Portland Winter Hawks. After his junior career was done, Coates played three seasons of pro hockey.
#15 – Mike Kirby – Forward - A native of Regina, Mike Kirby spent parts of three seasons from 1988-89 to 1990-91 with the Regina Pats, before heading to the Lethbridge Hurricanes part way through the 90-91 season.
#16 – Mike Sillinger – Centre - A native of Regina, Mike Sillinger was part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year olds in Frank Kovacs and Jamie Heward. He was drafted in the first round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings before embarking on an 18 year NHL career.
#18 – Kelly Markwart – Defenceman - Played parts of 4 seasons with the blue and white beginning in 1987-1991 before finishing his WHL career with the Saskatoon Blades. He went on to play with the University of Regina.
#19 – Jamie Heward – Right Wing/Defenceman – A native of Regina, Jamie Heward was a part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year olds in Mike Sillinger and Frank Kovacs. He moved to defence after the 1987-88 season. Heward was a 1st round pick of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft before embarking on a 18 year pro career.
#19 – Brian Varga – Forward – Varga is a Regina native that played three full seasons with the Pats from 1978-1981 rolling up 259 points, including a league leading 160 in the 1980-81 season for a team that lost in the Eastern Conference finals. He went on to have a career in pro hockey in Europe.
#24 – Frank Kovacs – Left Wing – A native of Regina, Frank Kovacs was a part of the famous pup line with two other 16 year old in Mike Sillinger and Jamie Heward. He is the all-time Pats leader in career games played with 352. Kovacs was a 4th round pick of the Minnesota North Stars in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, and from there had an 8 year pro career in both North America and Europe.
#25 – Kurt Wickenheiser – Left Wing – Wickenheiser is a Regina native that played 4 seasons for the Pats from 1981 to 1985 before finishing his WHL career with the Lethbridge Broncos. After his WHL career, he played parts of 13 seasons in pro hockey in both North America and Europe.
#27 – Troy Vollhoffer – Right Wing – Vollhoffer is a Regina native that began his WHL career with the Regina Pats in 1982-83 before stops in Winnipeg, New West Minster and Saskatoon. He went on to a 6 year pro career.
#37 – Martin Smith – Forward – Smith hails from North Battleford and played for the Pats in the 1989-90 season after stops in Seattle, Saskatoon, Brandon and Victoria. He went on to a 6 year pro career in both North America and Europe.
Al Dumba – Head Coach – Originally from Cupar, Dumba played 3 seasons with the Pats from 1973 to 1976, with his best season coming in the 75-76 season where he accumulated 103 points. In 1976, Dumba was an 8th round pick of the Washington Capitals in the NHL Amateur Draft and an 8th round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in the WHA Amateur Draft. After a 5 year playing career, Dumba also went on to be an assistant coach and then co-coach of the Regina Pats.
Mark “Torch” Simpson – Trainer – Beginning with the 1987-88 season, Torchy spent 10 seasons with the Regina Pats as both Equipment Manager and then Trainer. He turned his craft into his own business as he is owner of Torchy’s Sport Imaging and Embroidering.
MOOSE JAW WARRIORS
# 1 Scott Christison played one season with the Warriors in the 1990-1991 season.
# 34 Josh Lepp hails from Dalmeny, SK. Josh played two seasons with the Warriors in the 04-05 & 05-06 season. Lepp was part of the Warriors te+am during one of the most exciting times in franchise history as the team lost in the finals during the 05-06 season after finishing 1st in the Eastern Conference.
# 35 Glen Seymour played two seasons between the pipes for the Warriors. From Prince Rupert, BC. Glen was part of the 86-87 & 87-88 rosters. He was the starting goalie in 86/87, backing up Warrior greats Theo Fleury and Mike Keane. That very season would see a controversial Warriors loss to the Medicine Hat Tigers who would eventually go on to win the Memorial Cup.
#2 Scott Thomas’s career spanned four seasons beginning back in 1987. Scott banked 85 points in a Warriors uniform.
# 4 Travis Thiessen came to the tribe from North Battleford, SK. A defensemen who was drafted 3rd round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the ’93 NHL Entry Draft, Thiessen scored 77 points in his two years with the Warriors beginning in 1990. Thiessen has enjoyed an extensive hockey career.
# 7 Kevin Masters began his WHL career with the Warriors and remained with the team for four consecutive seasons. Masters wracked up 146 points while donning the red, black and grey.
# 12 Rob Reimer is a four year Warrior veteran, beginning his stint with the tribe in ’87 and continuing on to a career in both the AHL and ECHL. Reimer scored an incredible 99 points in his 90-91 season. Rob banked 257 career points while in Moose Jaw. Rob is credited with scoring one of the most famous Warriors goals in Game 2 of the 4th overtime period vs. Swift Current to eventually lead the Tribe to a 3-0 sweep over the Broncos in 1991.
# 18 Brad Toporowski came to the Warriors from Spokane in 1992. Growing up in Paddockwood, SK. Brad played defense for the Warriors in 121 games. Brad went onto a career in the ECHL, WPHL and the WCHL.
# 20 Blair Atcheynum is Saskatchewan born. Blair played right wing for the Warriors for three seasons starting in ’86. Blair rolled in 138 points in just one season in 88-89. Blair holds the Warriors record for most goals in franchise history with 70 goals. Blair was named “Molson Player of the Year” in the Eastern Conference that same year. Blair was drafted to the Hartford Whalers in the 3rd round #52 overall in the ’89 NHL Entry Draft. Atcheynum’s NHL career included time with Nashville, Ottawa, St. Louis and Chicago.
#20 Scott Ducharmie began his Warriors career in 1991. Scott stayed with the team for four seasons. Scott laced up his skates for the tribe in over 150 WHL games. Ducharmie played along side Warrior greats such as Ryan Smyth and Curtis Brown.
#20 David Bararuk is a home town boy. Beginning his time with the Warriors at a young age as a stick boy, his warrior career spans over four seasons. David played in over 200 games with the team. He was drafted in the 5th round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft to the Dallas Stars.
# 21 Darryl Laplante is a native of Calgary, AB. The centerman played 3 seasons with the Warriors in 94-94, 95-96 and 96-97. Laplante was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 3rd round #58 overall of the ’95 NHL Entry Draft. Laplante’s hockey career continued right to the 03-04 season as he played in the AHL, IHL and ECHL.
# 22 Troy Edwards is from Raymore, SK. A left winger who played for the Warriors in their very first season in ’84 and continued right through until ’87. Troy played in over 230 games and is a Warriors Hall of Famer.
# 24 Jeremy Thompson played with several WHL teams before landing in Moose Jaw. Jeremy played with the Warriors in the 95-96 season. The right winger was born in Vernon, BC.
# 24 Jeff Budai began his Warriors career in 1991. In two seasons, Budai claimed 23 points in 69 games. Jeff is from Calgary, AB.
# 26 Grady Manson is a Manitoba product who played for four years in Moose Jaw. From 1992-1996, Grady claimed 210 points in WHL.
# 27 Lane Manson comes from Watrous, SK. The defensemen joined the team in 2001. Manson graced the crushed can for three years and wracked up a whopping 253 PIM in the 2003-2004 season alone. Manson was drafted to the Atlanta Thrashers in 2002 in the 4th round of the NHL Entry Draft.
# 27 Reed Low is Moose Jaw born. Reed wracked up an incredible 449 career penalty minutes in just 2 seasons. Low spent two seasons in Moose Jaw (95-96 & 96-97) and was drafted to the St. Louis Blues in the 7th round 177 overall in the 1996 NHL Entry Draft. Low played 5 years in the NHL as well as many years in the ECHL and AHL.
# 29 Milt Mastad came to the Warriors from Seattle in ‘93. This defensemen was selected #155 overall by the Boston Bruins in the 6th round of the ’93 NHL Entry Draft. Milt played in the AHL, IHL, UHL and ECHL.
# 55 Rob Harvey, an inductee to the Warriors & Legends Hall of Fame this past summer, spent four years as a Warriors commencing in 1986. Rob had one of his best seasons in ’89 when he scored over 100 points.
Behind the bench for the Warriors:
Derek Kletzel spent four seasons with the team beginning in 1988. Kletzel played in over 200 games for the Warriors. Derek continues to lend his support to the team through heading up the Warriors Alumni and also doing color commentating for Warriors home games.
Jeff Truitt is the Warriors current Director of Hockey Operations. Jeff Truitt has been involved in the Western Hockey League for 7 years. Three of those years, Jeff was the Head Coach of the Kelowna Rockets. Prior to his time in Kelowna, Jeff spent 2 years in Lethbridge. Last season Truitt coached in the AHL with the Springfield
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Have Your Say
Canadian Football League (CFL) fans are being asked to propose rule changes this year with a particular emphasis on how to improve the game's overtime format, says CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon.
"We had a tremendous response last year from fans when we asked for the very first time for their ideas on how to improve our rules," Cohon said.
"So this year, we're inviting their input on possible rules changes across the board, but we're asking them to particularly focus on our overtime format."
Under the current rules, if the score is tied at the end of a game, each team gets an opportunity to scrimmage from its opponent's 35-yard line, until it makes a score or loses possession.
If the score remains tied, the procedure is repeated at the opposite end of the stadium.
If the score is still tied after each team has had two attempts, the game is declared a tie, if it's a regular season game. If the game is a playoff or championship game, the same procedure continues until a winner is finally declared.
Some of the questions fans may want to grapple may include:
• Is the series-of-downs format superior to the old system of extra overtime periods or halves?
• Should teams scrimmage from somewhere other than the 35-yard line?
• Should teams be required to drive for a touchdown instead of settling for a field goal, or should teams be required to attempt a two-point convert following a touchdown?
• Does the overtime format really need changes, or is it already as good as it can be?
"Some of our most exciting games last season, including one of our playoff games, were decided in overtime, and that prompted some discussion among fans about our format," Cohon said in a message to fans posted on the league's website, CFL.ca, and team sites that form the CFL Network.
"We have tremendous respect for the knowledge of our fans, and their dedication to the tradition and future of our league, so we'd like to turn that informal overtime discussion into specific ideas that our league can consider as it looks towards the 2010 season."
Fans are asked to send their proposals, including their overtime ideas, by visiting CFL.ca/rules or by emailing - rules@cfl.ca - by Monday, February 15th. Those proposals will be shared with the members of the league's rules committee as it prepares to meet as part of the annual CFL Congress, this year in Edmonton on March 3rd, 4th and 5th.
"We had a tremendous response last year from fans when we asked for the very first time for their ideas on how to improve our rules," Cohon said.
"So this year, we're inviting their input on possible rules changes across the board, but we're asking them to particularly focus on our overtime format."
Under the current rules, if the score is tied at the end of a game, each team gets an opportunity to scrimmage from its opponent's 35-yard line, until it makes a score or loses possession.
If the score remains tied, the procedure is repeated at the opposite end of the stadium.
If the score is still tied after each team has had two attempts, the game is declared a tie, if it's a regular season game. If the game is a playoff or championship game, the same procedure continues until a winner is finally declared.
Some of the questions fans may want to grapple may include:
• Is the series-of-downs format superior to the old system of extra overtime periods or halves?
• Should teams scrimmage from somewhere other than the 35-yard line?
• Should teams be required to drive for a touchdown instead of settling for a field goal, or should teams be required to attempt a two-point convert following a touchdown?
• Does the overtime format really need changes, or is it already as good as it can be?
"Some of our most exciting games last season, including one of our playoff games, were decided in overtime, and that prompted some discussion among fans about our format," Cohon said in a message to fans posted on the league's website, CFL.ca, and team sites that form the CFL Network.
"We have tremendous respect for the knowledge of our fans, and their dedication to the tradition and future of our league, so we'd like to turn that informal overtime discussion into specific ideas that our league can consider as it looks towards the 2010 season."
Fans are asked to send their proposals, including their overtime ideas, by visiting CFL.ca/rules or by emailing - rules@cfl.ca - by Monday, February 15th. Those proposals will be shared with the members of the league's rules committee as it prepares to meet as part of the annual CFL Congress, this year in Edmonton on March 3rd, 4th and 5th.
Crunch Time!!!
Here is the remaining schedules for the top 10 teams in the East Conference.
Kootenay (22)
Home – (10) Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Saskatoon, Swift Current, Spokane. Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton
Away – (12) Spokane, Regina, Moose Jaw, Brandon, Regina, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer, Medicine Hat, Edmonton, Red Deer
Calgary (23)
Home – (13) Brandon, Tri City, Medicine Hat, Prince Albert, Brandon, Prince George, Red Deer, Kelowna, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Red Deer
Away – (10) Swift Current, Medicine Hat, Swift Current, Regina, Lethbridge, Kelowna, Kamloops, Red Deer, Kootenay, Edmonton
Medicine Hat (18)
Home – (12) Calgary, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Kootenay, Kootenay, Kamloops, Moose Jaw, Red Deer, Edmonton, Lethbridge
Away – (6) Chilliwack, Kelowna, Calgary, Swift Current, Kootenay, Lethbridge
Red Deer (23)
Home – (10) Edmonton, Lethbridge, Regina, Prince Albert, Prince George, Kootenay, Calgary, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Kootenay
Away – (13) Lethbridge, Regina, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Kootenay, Calgary
Brandon (19)
Home – (12) Red Deer, Kootenay, Regina, Swift Current, Regina, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw, Regina
Away – (7) Calgary, Saskatoon, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Regina
Moose Jaw (23)
Home – (9) Regina, Kootenay, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Lethbridge, Swift Current
Away – (14) Regina, Kootenay, Spokane, Seattle, Everett, Portland, Tri City, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Brandon, Saskatoon, Brandon, Swift Current
Prince Albert (21)
Home – (8) Saskatoon, Swift Current, Red Deer, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Brandon, Swift Current, Saskatoon
Away – (13) Kootenay, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Red Deer, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Brandon, Calgary, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon
Regina (22)
Home – (11) Moose Jaw, Kootenay, Red Deer, Saskatoon, Kootenay, Calgary, Chilliwack, Vancouver, Lethbridge, Prince Albert, Brandon
Away – (11) Moose Jaw, Brandon, Red Deer, Edmonton, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Brandon
Saskatoon (23)
Home – (12) Swift Current, Brandon, Swift Current, Red Deer, Vancouver, Brandon, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Regina, Moose Jaw, Regina, Prince Albert
Away – (11) Swift Current, Prince Albert, Regina, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Kootenay, Moose Jaw, Brandon, Edmonton, Calgary, Prince Albert
Swift Current (21)
Home – (11) Saskatoon, Calgary, Red Deer, Calgary, Medicine Hat, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Regina, Vancouver, Regina, Moose Jaw
Away – (10) Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Brandon, Kootenay, Lethbridge, Calgary, Red Deer, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw
Kootenay (22)
Home – (10) Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Saskatoon, Swift Current, Spokane. Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton
Away – (12) Spokane, Regina, Moose Jaw, Brandon, Regina, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Red Deer, Medicine Hat, Edmonton, Red Deer
Calgary (23)
Home – (13) Brandon, Tri City, Medicine Hat, Prince Albert, Brandon, Prince George, Red Deer, Kelowna, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Red Deer
Away – (10) Swift Current, Medicine Hat, Swift Current, Regina, Lethbridge, Kelowna, Kamloops, Red Deer, Kootenay, Edmonton
Medicine Hat (18)
Home – (12) Calgary, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Kootenay, Kootenay, Kamloops, Moose Jaw, Red Deer, Edmonton, Lethbridge
Away – (6) Chilliwack, Kelowna, Calgary, Swift Current, Kootenay, Lethbridge
Red Deer (23)
Home – (10) Edmonton, Lethbridge, Regina, Prince Albert, Prince George, Kootenay, Calgary, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Kootenay
Away – (13) Lethbridge, Regina, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Kootenay, Calgary
Brandon (19)
Home – (12) Red Deer, Kootenay, Regina, Swift Current, Regina, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw, Regina
Away – (7) Calgary, Saskatoon, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Regina
Moose Jaw (23)
Home – (9) Regina, Kootenay, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Lethbridge, Swift Current
Away – (14) Regina, Kootenay, Spokane, Seattle, Everett, Portland, Tri City, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Brandon, Saskatoon, Brandon, Swift Current
Prince Albert (21)
Home – (8) Saskatoon, Swift Current, Red Deer, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Brandon, Swift Current, Saskatoon
Away – (13) Kootenay, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Red Deer, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Brandon, Calgary, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon
Regina (22)
Home – (11) Moose Jaw, Kootenay, Red Deer, Saskatoon, Kootenay, Calgary, Chilliwack, Vancouver, Lethbridge, Prince Albert, Brandon
Away – (11) Moose Jaw, Brandon, Red Deer, Edmonton, Brandon, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Brandon
Saskatoon (23)
Home – (12) Swift Current, Brandon, Swift Current, Red Deer, Vancouver, Brandon, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Regina, Moose Jaw, Regina, Prince Albert
Away – (11) Swift Current, Prince Albert, Regina, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Kootenay, Moose Jaw, Brandon, Edmonton, Calgary, Prince Albert
Swift Current (21)
Home – (11) Saskatoon, Calgary, Red Deer, Calgary, Medicine Hat, Chilliwack, Prince Albert, Regina, Vancouver, Regina, Moose Jaw
Away – (10) Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Brandon, Kootenay, Lethbridge, Calgary, Red Deer, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw
The New Orleans Saints Sercet Weapon
Wait on second thought Peyton Manning is gay, but she can still go.
HE'S BACK
The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced today import defensive back Omarr Morgan has re-signed with the team. Financial details of the contract were not released.
Morgan is heading into his 10th season with the Green and White and 11th in the CFL.
In 2009, the BYU product started all 18 regular season games for the Riders as well as the West Final and Grey Cup game at cornerback.
He tallied 50 defensive tackles, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries one of which he returned a CFL record 108 yards for a touchdown, three pass knockdowns and two tackles for a loss, during the regular season.
The 33 year old has played a total of 172 CFL regular season games and has 552 defensive tackles, 35 special team tackles, 28 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries and five touchdowns.
Morgan was set to become a free agent
CHL Top Ten
1 Saint John Sea Dogs (40-8-1-0)
2 Barrie Colts (38-7-0-1)
3 Windsor Spitfires (37-7-0-5)
4 Tri-City Americans (36-12-0-1)
5 London Knights (35-11-0-2)
6 Saskatoon Blades (32-11-2-3)
7 Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (32-10-4-1)
8 Victoriaville Tigres (33-14-1-1)
9 Moncton Wildcats (33-11-1-3)
10 Brandon Wheat Kings (33-16-0-3)
Honourable Mention:
Drummondville Voltigeurs (33-14-0-2)
Everett Silvertips (31-16-2-1)
Kitchener Rangers (31-14-2-2)
2 Barrie Colts (38-7-0-1)
3 Windsor Spitfires (37-7-0-5)
4 Tri-City Americans (36-12-0-1)
5 London Knights (35-11-0-2)
6 Saskatoon Blades (32-11-2-3)
7 Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (32-10-4-1)
8 Victoriaville Tigres (33-14-1-1)
9 Moncton Wildcats (33-11-1-3)
10 Brandon Wheat Kings (33-16-0-3)
Honourable Mention:
Drummondville Voltigeurs (33-14-0-2)
Everett Silvertips (31-16-2-1)
Kitchener Rangers (31-14-2-2)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Kevin Lowe To Speak At Sportsman's Dinner
Regina, Saskatchewan – The 7th edition of the Regina Pats Sportsman's dinner is set and ready to go for Monday, March 8th at The Delta Hotel. Enjoy a night of entertainment and fun, headlined by our guest speaker, Edmonton Oilers President of Hockey Operations, Kevin Lowe.
The Oilers first ever draft pick, Lowe spent 19 seasons in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers, winning 6 Stanley Cups. He is also a 7 time NHL All-Star and won the King Clancy Award in 1990.
Since finishing his playing career, Lowe has been both and Assistant and Head Coach of the Oilers before being promoted to General Manager in 2000. He remained the Oilers' Executive Vice President and General Manager until the 2008-09 season when he was promoted to President of Hockey Operations.
All members of the Regina Pats will be present at the dinner with a player seated at each table.
There will be more entertainment announced at a later date.
Regina Pats Sportsman's Dinner
Monday, March 8th, 2010
The Delta Hotel
Cocktails begin at 6pm
Ceremonies begin at 7pm
Tickets:
Single - $150.00
Table - $1000.00
Tickets are available at the Regina Pats office located in the West Entrance of the Brandt Centre, or call 522-PATS.
The Oilers first ever draft pick, Lowe spent 19 seasons in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers, winning 6 Stanley Cups. He is also a 7 time NHL All-Star and won the King Clancy Award in 1990.
Since finishing his playing career, Lowe has been both and Assistant and Head Coach of the Oilers before being promoted to General Manager in 2000. He remained the Oilers' Executive Vice President and General Manager until the 2008-09 season when he was promoted to President of Hockey Operations.
All members of the Regina Pats will be present at the dinner with a player seated at each table.
There will be more entertainment announced at a later date.
Regina Pats Sportsman's Dinner
Monday, March 8th, 2010
The Delta Hotel
Cocktails begin at 6pm
Ceremonies begin at 7pm
Tickets:
Single - $150.00
Table - $1000.00
Tickets are available at the Regina Pats office located in the West Entrance of the Brandt Centre, or call 522-PATS.
Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down
Welcome everyone to this little piece I call my own. I have another Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down to go through is if your ready to get going let's go.
Thumbs Up- To Mikael Tam who play for the Quebec Rempats of the QMJHL, Tam was in the hospital because of one of the dirtiest elbow I have ever seen.Tam held a press conference this past Friday where he said he didn't remember the hit, and he didn't know where he was, or why was there. Tam has suffered brain trauma along with losing teeth, he is not sure when he will return to the ice if ever. But the physical pain will go away it's mental pain that may stay forever with this bright, well spoken and classy 18- year kid Mikael Tam.
Thumbs Down-To the CFL if what I'm about to tell you happens it would be a huge mistake. David Braley, the owner of the B.C.Lions back in 2003 lent Argos co-owners David Cynamon and Howard Sokolowski 6 million. One theory is that Braley wanted either his money back, or be given the option of taking over the Argos. Cynamon and Sokolowski apparently did not want to bring Braley on as a partner, and now he could become the SOLE OWNER. The CFL does not have any rules against one person owning two teams but come on how can this happen ever hear of a little thing called A CONFLICTED OF INTEREST. You can't tell me that would not happen with Braley owning two teams in the same league.
Plus do you know how stupid this will look 8 teams and one person owns 2 of them both the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and owned by the community. So that leaves 6 other teams that have a owner so if Braley is allowed to own two teams he will then own two thirds of the rest of the league. Please CFL don't do something so dumb.
Thumbs Up- To the Saskatchewan Roughriders for naming not only Brendan Taman the new GM but also naming Ken Miller the VP of football operations. This is a great move by the team Taman is a bright mind in this game and of course Kenny has a great eye for it. With naming these two the Riders have sent themselves up nicely.
Thumbs Down- To Kristyne De Mott for those who don't know who that is she is the idiot who show up at the Flames game last week in a bridal dress and a sign that read Marry Me Sidney. Yes that's the same Sidney who plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins. What was her goal here besides making herself look retarded which you did congrats, or did you think Crosby was going to say of I will let's run away together that had no chance of happening. Sid saw your sign laughed it off like the joke you are, maybe next time you should think before you leave you trailer you dumb blond moron.
That's it for this week, check back with me for more on the blog have a great hump day.
Thumbs Up- To Mikael Tam who play for the Quebec Rempats of the QMJHL, Tam was in the hospital because of one of the dirtiest elbow I have ever seen.Tam held a press conference this past Friday where he said he didn't remember the hit, and he didn't know where he was, or why was there. Tam has suffered brain trauma along with losing teeth, he is not sure when he will return to the ice if ever. But the physical pain will go away it's mental pain that may stay forever with this bright, well spoken and classy 18- year kid Mikael Tam.
Thumbs Down-To the CFL if what I'm about to tell you happens it would be a huge mistake. David Braley, the owner of the B.C.Lions back in 2003 lent Argos co-owners David Cynamon and Howard Sokolowski 6 million. One theory is that Braley wanted either his money back, or be given the option of taking over the Argos. Cynamon and Sokolowski apparently did not want to bring Braley on as a partner, and now he could become the SOLE OWNER. The CFL does not have any rules against one person owning two teams but come on how can this happen ever hear of a little thing called A CONFLICTED OF INTEREST. You can't tell me that would not happen with Braley owning two teams in the same league.
Plus do you know how stupid this will look 8 teams and one person owns 2 of them both the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and owned by the community. So that leaves 6 other teams that have a owner so if Braley is allowed to own two teams he will then own two thirds of the rest of the league. Please CFL don't do something so dumb.
Thumbs Up- To the Saskatchewan Roughriders for naming not only Brendan Taman the new GM but also naming Ken Miller the VP of football operations. This is a great move by the team Taman is a bright mind in this game and of course Kenny has a great eye for it. With naming these two the Riders have sent themselves up nicely.
Thumbs Down- To Kristyne De Mott for those who don't know who that is she is the idiot who show up at the Flames game last week in a bridal dress and a sign that read Marry Me Sidney. Yes that's the same Sidney who plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins. What was her goal here besides making herself look retarded which you did congrats, or did you think Crosby was going to say of I will let's run away together that had no chance of happening. Sid saw your sign laughed it off like the joke you are, maybe next time you should think before you leave you trailer you dumb blond moron.
That's it for this week, check back with me for more on the blog have a great hump day.
Trade Deadlind Playbook: Western Conference
With more than five weeks to go, there are, not surprisingly, a lot of teams still in the Western Conference playoff picture, with eight teams within a nine-point span between sixth and 13th place in the conference.
That leaves Columbus and Edmonton as the most obvious sellers in the group, but there will be others to land in that position in the coming weeks as the playoff picture starts to get clearer.
San Jose and Chicago are establishing some distance from the rest of the pack, making them obvious buyers, but with both teams going so well for much of the season, it's difficult to project a blockbuster deal that would overhaul such a strong roster.
Colorado and Vancouver are battling for the Northwest Division lead and while the Canucks have experience and proven talent on their side, the Avalanche have the exuberance of youth and a favourable home-heavy schedule down the stretch.
However, for surprising teams like the Avalanche, Coyotes and Predators, they would seem to be in position to add in moderation. rather than make moves that would sacrifice too much (if any) of their future.
As more teams fall back from playoff position, there will be a more balanced market, but this far ahead of the deadline, there are too many teams that don't know whether or not they are going to be buyers or sellers.
A couple of notes about the following chart:
Restricted Free Agents (RFA) have contracts that expire this summer, barring a contract extension in the meantime, but their current team retains the right to match a contract offer so long as they make the requisite qualifying offer. While restricted free agents haven't moved a lot, it's worth noting when decision time is coming on a young player's contract.
Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA) have contracts that will expire this summer and, without a contract extension, they will be free to sign with whatever team they choose on July 1. These are the players that often move in "rental"-type deals, ideally providing a short-term fix with minimal commitment required.
Top prospects are the top five players in each organization that haven't played ten games in the NHL this season. Other top prospects or those that are now with the NHL team may be listed among other players of interest. Contending teams may be more likely to dangle a top prospect or two as they try to find that final piece for their playoff mix, while it's safe to assume that young and rebuilding teams aren't going to move top prospects unless they get a significant long-term piece in return.
Other players of interest will include prospects who have spent some time in the NHL this season as well as players under contract for future seasons that may have some level of attractiveness on the trade market.
IMPORTANT: Just because a player is listed as being of interest, it doesn't mean he will be traded or should be traded. Some may just be of interest for teams looking to hit a home run when trying to swing a deal or they are players that may be considered to be underachieving for the money they are due over the rest of their contract.
Generally, then, here's a rough guide for which players each Western Conference team might have at their disposal in order to make a trade leading up to the deadline.
ANAHEIM DUCKS
UFA in 2010: Saku Koivu, Teemu Selanne, Evgeny Artyukhin, Scott Niedermayer, Nick Boynton, Jonas Hiller.
RFA in 2010: Bobby Ryan, Kyle Chipchura, James Wisniewski.
Top Prospects:
Luca Sbisa, D, Portland (WHL)
Nicolas Deschamps, LW, Moncton (QMJHL)
Jake Gardiner, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Peter Holland, C, Guelph (OHL)
Kyle Palmieri, C, Notre Dame (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Joffrey Lupul.
No-Trade Clauses: Teemu Selanne, Jean-Sebastien Giguere.
The Plan: Stuck outside a playoff spot, but charging in the West, it remains to be seen which vets the Ducks are willing to purge if they can't get over the hump. Reportedly, Scott Niedermayer isn't going anywhere and Teemu Selanne would figure only to move if that's what he wants, so aside from those two, the Ducks' most marketable pending free agents would be Saku Koivu and Nick Boynton, both of whom may have some appeal, though neither is likely to yield an elite prospect or first-round pick in return. However, if a contender is looking for an offensive boost, a Koivu-Selanne pairing would surely help for a team that has the cap room to afford them. If the Ducks get into playoff position, then they might be able to do some tweaking for one last Niedermayer-Selanne era charge in the postseason.
CALGARY FLAMES
UFA in 2010: Olli Jokinen, Rene Bourque, Craig Conroy, Eric Nystrom, Jamie Lundmark, Brian McGrattan, Aaron Johnson.
RFA in 2010: Dustin Boyd, Brandon Prust.
Top Prospects:
Mikael Backlund, C Abbotsford (AHL)
Leland Irving, G, Abbotsford (AHL)
Greg Nemisz, RW, Windsor (OHL)
Keith Aulie, D, Abbotsford (AHL)
Tim Erixon, Skelleftea (SEL)
Others of Interest: Daymond Langkow, David Moss, Fredrik Sjostrom, Cory Sarich.
No-Trade Clauses: Jarome Iginla, Miikka Kiprusoff, Robyn Regehr.
The Plan: Suddenly in a fight for a playoff spot, the Flames have slumped lately and need to bolster their attack if they are going to make good on their strong start to the season. The league's 28th-ranked power play could use some help, as could the offence as a whole, since Jarome Iginla and Rene Bourque are the only two Flames on pace to score more than 20 goals this season. Perhaps there would be a seller interested in a reasonably-priced David Moss or a prospect or pick in exchange for a proven finisher.
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS
UFA in 2010: John Madden, Adam Burish.
RFA in 2010: Andrew Ladd, Ben Eager, Colin Fraser, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Jordan Hendry, Antti Niemi.
Top Prospects:
Kyle Beach, LW, Spokane (WHL)
Shawn Lalonde, D, Belleville (OHL)
Dylan Olsen, D, Minnesota-Dluth (WCHA)
Jack Skille, RW, Rockford (AHL)
Billy Sweatt, LW, Colorado College (WCHA)
Others of Interest: Patrick Sharp, Cam Barker, Brent Sopel.
No-Trade Clauses: Brian Campbell.
The Plan: An elite team in the league to this point in the season, the Blackhawks don't need to make significant moves, yet as Cup contenders, it seems inconceivable that they wouldn't augment their roster by adding veteran depth on the blueline and up front, though a potentially tight salary cap situation could prompt a move that sees Brent Sopel or Cam Barker moved in the right deal.
COLORADO AVALANCHE
UFA in 2010: Darcy Tucker, Marek Svatos, David Koci, Matt Hendricks, Chris Durno, Brett Clark, Ruslan Salei, Adam Foote, Peter Budaj.
RFA in 2010: Wojtek Wolski, Chris Stewart, Brandon Yip, Kyle Quincey.
Top Prospects:
Kevin Shattenkirk, D, Boston University (HE)
Ryan Stoa, C, Lake Erie (AHL)
Colby Cohen, D, Boston University (HE)
Stefan Elliott, D, Saskatoon (WHL)
Cameron Gaunce, D, Mississauga-St. Mike's (OHL)
Others of Interest: Tom Preissing.
No-Trade Clauses: Adam Foote, Scott Hannan, Milan Hejduk, John-Michael Liles.
The Plan: Even though the Avalanche have been one of the league's biggest surprises this season, this is a franchise that is building through youth, so there shouldn't be any dramatic moves involving young players or top prospects for rentals. If a mid-round pick or middling prospect can get the Avs some experience, then it might be worthwhile, but to secure a top-pair defenceman, the Avs may have to get creative.
COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS
UFA in 2010: Fredrik Modin, Raffi Torres, Milan Jurcina.
RFA in 2010: Alexandre Picard, Jared Boll, Anton Stralman, Mathieu Roy.
Top Prospects:
Nikita Filatov, LW CSKA Moscow (KHL)
John Moore, D, Kitchener (OHL)
Cody Goloubef, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Maxim Mayorov, LW, Syracuse (AHL)
Matt Calvert, LW, Brandon (WHL)
Others of Interest: Kristian Huselius, R.J. Umberger, Derick Brassard, Samuel Pahlsson, Nikita Filatov, Rostislav Klesla.
No-Trade Clauses: Mike Commodore, Fredrik Modin.
The Plan: The playoffs are a longshot for the Blue Jackets now, as goaltending has been a problem and there hasn't been enough development of young talent. If the Jackets are in cost-saving mode, veterans Kristian Huselius, R.J. Umberger and Rostislav Klesla are paid quite a bit relative to what they provide, though they may not be easy to move due to long-term contracts. Columbus has a decent core of young talent, but somehow has to find the right mix of players for Ken Hitchcock's system, a system that seemed to alienate top prospect Nikita Filatov, who returned to Russia when he wasn't getting enough playing time early in the season.
DALLAS STARS
UFA in 2010: Mike Modano, Jere Lehtinen, Steve Ott, Krys Barch, Toby Petersen, Warren Peters, Marty Turco, Alex Auld.
RFA in 2010: Fabian Brunnstrom, James Neal, Tom Wandell, Nicklas Grossman, Matt Niskanen.
Top Prospects:
Ivan Vishnevskiy, D, Texas (AHL)
Philip Larsen, D, Vastra Frolunda (SEL)
Scott Glennie, RW, Brandon (WHL)
Alex Chiasson, RW, Boston University (HE)
Colton Sceviour, RW, Texas (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jeff Woywitka.
No-Trade Clauses: Mike Modano, Brenden Morrow, Brad Richards, Marty Turco.
The Plan: On the outside looking in at the playoffs, the Stars are close enough to remain in the hunt for now, but if they fall further away from eighth spot in the West, it could be time to begin a roster overhaul that has been due for a while. While face of the franchise Mike Modano may not be going anywhere, an agitator like Steve Ott might have some appeal for a contender and the Stars may want to consider a move to address their goaltending as 34-year-old Marty Turco does not appear to be the future between the pipes. With loads of cap room available, the Stars could (at least theoretically) acquire assets if they are willing to take on salary.
DETROIT RED WINGS
UFA in 2010: Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, Jason Williams, Kirk Maltby, Brad May, Nicklas Lidstrom, Andreas Lilja, Brett Lebda, Doug Janik.
RFA in 2010: Justin Abdelkader, Darren Helm, Drew Miller, Patrick Eaves, Derek Meech.
Top Prospects:
Brendan Smith, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Tomas Tatar, C, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Jan Mursak, RW, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Jakub Kindl, D, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Gustav Nyquist, C, Maine (HE)
Others of Interest: Ville Leino.
No-Trade Clauses: Dan Cleary, Pavel Datsyuk, Kris Draper, Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Brad Stuart.
The Plan: Still battling for playoff position, the Red Wings have been treading water while waiting to get healthy enough in order to mount a sustained charge towards the postseason. If the Wings get to full strength, they still have a roster capable of making a playoff run, but it certainly feels like a last charge for some of the elder statesmen, so Detroit doesn't figure to make moves that would sacrifice their most promising future performers.
EDMONTON OILERS
UFA in 2010: Fernando Pisani, Mike Comrie, Jason Strudwick.
RFA in 2010: Sam Gagner, Andrew Cogliano, Marc Pouliot, Gilbert Brule, Ryan Stone, Ryan Potulny, Jean-Francois Jacques, Denis Grebeshkov, Jeff Deslauriers, Devan Dubnyk.
Top Prospects:
Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson, LW, Timra IK (SEL)
Jordan Eberle, RW, Regina (WHL)
Anton Lander, C, Timra (SEL)
Riley Nash, C, Cornell (ECAC)
Jeff Petry, D, Michigan State (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Shawn Horcoff, Patrick O'Sullivan, Ethan Moreau, Robert Nilsson, Tom Gilbert, Steve Staios.
No-Trade Clauses: Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovsky.
The Plan: A disastrous season, combined with a quality list of prospects, puts the Oilers in position to rebuild by shedding veterans and going younger. Sheldon Souray has said he will waive his no-trade clause if a deal makes sense. Souray's hammer from the point could have some appeal, but he also has two years and $10.8-million left on his deal after this season, so the Oilers may not get much more than cap relief in a Souray swap. The Oilers would presumably love to move the salaries of veterans like Shawn Horcoff (which seems highly unlikely), Steve Staios, Robert Nilsson or even captain Ethan Moreau, though their appeal will be minimized by the remaining time and money left on their contracts. Defencemen Tom Gilbert and Denis Grebeshkov were more marketable last season and if the Oilers really want to shake things up, they could shop some of their upcoming restricted free agents, young players that haven't established that they have what it takes to get this team to the playoffs.
LOS ANGELES KINGS
UFA in 2010: Alexander Frolov, Raitis Ivanans, Randy Jones, Sean O'Donnell.
RFA in 2010: Teddy Purcell, Brad Richardson, Scott Parse.
Top Prospects:
Jonathan Bernier, G, Manchester (AHL)
Brayden Schenn, C, Brandon (WHL)
Vyacheslav Voynov, D, Manchester (AHL)
Thomas Hickey, D, Manchester (AHL)
Colten Teubert, D, Regina (WHL)
Others of Interest: Oscar Moller, Davis Drewiske, Colten Teubert.
No-Trade Clauses: Michal Handzus, Ryan Smyth.
The Plan: After several seasons of building from within, the Kings are now in position to make some noise in the postseason, so it's worth sacrificing some of that future talent if it's going to help the Kings hold onto a playoff spot. The Kings have the organizational depth that they can be players for any marquee names that are offered at the deadline, including Ilya Kovalchuk.
MINNESOTA WILD
UFA in 2010: Owen Nolan, Eric Belanger, Petr Sykora, Derek Boogaard, Andrew Ebbett, Kim Johnsson, Marek Zidlicky, Shane Hnidy, John Scott.
RFA in 2010: James Sheppard, Guillaume Latendresse, Cal Clutterbuck, Robbie Earl, Josh Harding.
Top Prospects:
Marco Scandella, D, Val d'Or (QMJHL)
Tyler Cuma, D, Ottawa (OHL)
Matt Hackett, G, Plymouth (OHL)
Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota (WCHA)
Colton Gillies, LW, Houston (AHL)
Others of Interest: Antti Miettinen, Chuck Kobasew.
No-Trade Clauses: None.
The Plan: Lurking on the edges of the playoff picture, the Wild have played better since a slow start under new head coach Todd Richards, but their play leading up to the trade deadline will determine if they are still in the playoff race or will be able to offer a variety of veterans who will be free agents in the summer. Getting Brent Burns back in the lineup should help, but there are only three defencemen under contract for next season, so there could be some blueline changes forthcoming if the Wild are inclined to sell.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS
UFA in 2010: Jordin Tootoo, Wade Belak, Dan Hamhuis, Francis Bouillon, Dan Ellis, Pekka Rinne.
RFA in 2010: Patric Hornqvist, Andreas Thuresson, Marcel Goc, Cody Franson.
Top Prospects:
Jon Blum, D, Milwaukee (AHL)
Ryan Ellis, D, Milwaukee (AHL)
Chet Pickard, G, Milwaukee (AHL)
Taylor Beck, LW, Guelph (OHL)
Roman Josi, D, Bern (Switzerland)
Others of Interest: Martin Erat, Ryan Jones, Colin Wilson, Nick Spaling, Cal O'Reilly.
No-Trade Clauses: Jason Arnott, J.P. Dumont, David Legwand.
The Plan: The Predators have overachieved, again, and are in the Western Conference playoff picture. That being the case, the Predators should be looking to bolster their roster around the deadline. While there's no shortage of cap room, how big and bold their additions -- some experience on the blueline and another proven scorer would be nice -- before the deadline will depend on the internal budget.
PHOENIX COYOTES
UFA in 2010: Matthew Lombardi, Robert Lang, Taylor Pyatt, Adrian Aucoin, Zbynek Michalek, Anders Eriksson.
RFA in 2010: Peter Mueller, Scottie Upshall, Martin Hanzal, Daniel Winnik, Paul Bissonnette, Sami Lepisto.
Top Prospects:
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D, Leksands (Sweden)
Kyle Turris, C, San Antonio (AHL)
Viktor Tikhonov, LW, CSKA Moscow (KHL)
Brett MacLean, LW, San Antonio (AHL)
Chris Summers, D, Michigan (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Kevin Porter.
No-Trade Clauses: Shane Doan, Ed Jovanovski.
The Plan: Shockingly in playoff position, the Coyotes should, at least theoretically, be in position to add some help as the deadline approaches if it's deemed appropriate given the ownership situation. While there seems little likelihood that the Coyotes will surrender top prospects in a deal, they do hold two first-round picks and could definitely use some proven scoring help to boost the 24th-ranked power play.
SAN JOSE SHARKS
UFA in 2010: Patrick Marleau, Scott Nichol, Manny Malhotra, Jody Shelley, Jed Ortmeyer, Rob Blake, Jay Leach, Evgeni Nabokov.
RFA in 2010: Joe Pavelski, Devin Setoguchi, Brad Staubitz.
Top Prospects:
Logan Couture, C, Worcester (AHL)
Nick Petrecki, D, Worcester (AHL)
Harri Sateri, G, Tappara Tampere (FNL)
Alex Stalock, G, Worcester (AHL)
Steven Zalewski, C, Worcester (AHL)
Others of Interest: Torrey Mitchell, Jamie McGinn, Benn Ferriero, Frazer McLaren, Derek Joslin.
No-Trade Clauses: Dan Boyle, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Dany Heatley, Evgeni Nabokov.
The Plan: Cruising through the regular season, the Sharks have a championship run in them, but could still augment their roster in order to finally get over the hump, perhaps looking for some blueline help or a veteran forward that can play both ends of the rink and give the second line a boost when it needs a shake-up -- the kind of tweaking that Cup contenders make, rather than dramatic and desperate roster changes.
ST. LOUIS BLUES
UFA in 2010: Paul Kariya, Keith Tkachuk, Brad Winchester, Carlo Colaiacovo, Darryl Sydor, Mike Weaver, Chris Mason.
RFA in 2010: Alexander Steen, David Perron, Cam Janssen, D.J. King, Erik Johnson.
Top Prospects:
Alex Pietrangelo, D, Barrie (OHL)
Lars Eller, LW, Peoria (AHL)
Ian Cole, D, Notre Dame (CCHA)
Jonas Junland, D, Peoria (AHL)
David Rundblad, D, Skelleftea (SEL)
Others of Interest: Andy McDonald, Brad Boyes, Patrik Berglund.
No-Trade Clauses: Eric Brewer, Barret Jackman, Paul Kariya, Keith Tkachuk.
The Plan: Underachieving and out of the playoff picture right now, the Blues need to make a charge if they are going to get back into the race and they have been playing better under new head coach Davis Payne. An already young team, the Blues either need their young players like T.J. Oshie, Patrik Berglund, David Perron and Erik Johnson to rise up and lead the way or have to find players capable of ultimately filling the leadership role as veterans Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk are in the twilight of their careers.
VANCOUVER CANUCKS
UFA in 2010: Pavol Demitra, Kyle Wellwood, Ryan Johnson, Willie Mitchell, Brad Lukowich, Andrew Raycroft.
RFA in 2010: Ryan Kesler, Mason Raymond, Jannik Hansen, Alexandre Bolduc, Tanner Glass, Shane O'Brien, Aaron Rome.
Top Prospects:
Cory Schneider, G, Manitoba (AHL)
Cody Hodgson, C, Brampton (OHL)
Michael Grabner, RW, Manitoba (AHL)
Jordan Schroeder, C, Minnesota (WCHA)
Anton Rodin, RW, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Others of Interest: Sergei Shirokov.
No-Trade Clauses: Roberto Luongo, Sami Salo, Willie Mitchell.
The Plan: Locked in a battle for playoff position, particularly when considering the daunting road trip that surrounds the Olympic break, the Canucks have what it takes to be a contender. The forward units got a boost with the return of Pavol Demitra, so if they wish to supplement their core, perhaps with a veteran defenceman to aid a unit that can't seem to stay healthy for very long, Vancouver will have to be mindful of the cap when it comes to acquisitions, but has enough young talent to offer in exchange.
That leaves Columbus and Edmonton as the most obvious sellers in the group, but there will be others to land in that position in the coming weeks as the playoff picture starts to get clearer.
San Jose and Chicago are establishing some distance from the rest of the pack, making them obvious buyers, but with both teams going so well for much of the season, it's difficult to project a blockbuster deal that would overhaul such a strong roster.
Colorado and Vancouver are battling for the Northwest Division lead and while the Canucks have experience and proven talent on their side, the Avalanche have the exuberance of youth and a favourable home-heavy schedule down the stretch.
However, for surprising teams like the Avalanche, Coyotes and Predators, they would seem to be in position to add in moderation. rather than make moves that would sacrifice too much (if any) of their future.
As more teams fall back from playoff position, there will be a more balanced market, but this far ahead of the deadline, there are too many teams that don't know whether or not they are going to be buyers or sellers.
A couple of notes about the following chart:
Restricted Free Agents (RFA) have contracts that expire this summer, barring a contract extension in the meantime, but their current team retains the right to match a contract offer so long as they make the requisite qualifying offer. While restricted free agents haven't moved a lot, it's worth noting when decision time is coming on a young player's contract.
Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA) have contracts that will expire this summer and, without a contract extension, they will be free to sign with whatever team they choose on July 1. These are the players that often move in "rental"-type deals, ideally providing a short-term fix with minimal commitment required.
Top prospects are the top five players in each organization that haven't played ten games in the NHL this season. Other top prospects or those that are now with the NHL team may be listed among other players of interest. Contending teams may be more likely to dangle a top prospect or two as they try to find that final piece for their playoff mix, while it's safe to assume that young and rebuilding teams aren't going to move top prospects unless they get a significant long-term piece in return.
Other players of interest will include prospects who have spent some time in the NHL this season as well as players under contract for future seasons that may have some level of attractiveness on the trade market.
IMPORTANT: Just because a player is listed as being of interest, it doesn't mean he will be traded or should be traded. Some may just be of interest for teams looking to hit a home run when trying to swing a deal or they are players that may be considered to be underachieving for the money they are due over the rest of their contract.
Generally, then, here's a rough guide for which players each Western Conference team might have at their disposal in order to make a trade leading up to the deadline.
ANAHEIM DUCKS
UFA in 2010: Saku Koivu, Teemu Selanne, Evgeny Artyukhin, Scott Niedermayer, Nick Boynton, Jonas Hiller.
RFA in 2010: Bobby Ryan, Kyle Chipchura, James Wisniewski.
Top Prospects:
Luca Sbisa, D, Portland (WHL)
Nicolas Deschamps, LW, Moncton (QMJHL)
Jake Gardiner, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Peter Holland, C, Guelph (OHL)
Kyle Palmieri, C, Notre Dame (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Joffrey Lupul.
No-Trade Clauses: Teemu Selanne, Jean-Sebastien Giguere.
The Plan: Stuck outside a playoff spot, but charging in the West, it remains to be seen which vets the Ducks are willing to purge if they can't get over the hump. Reportedly, Scott Niedermayer isn't going anywhere and Teemu Selanne would figure only to move if that's what he wants, so aside from those two, the Ducks' most marketable pending free agents would be Saku Koivu and Nick Boynton, both of whom may have some appeal, though neither is likely to yield an elite prospect or first-round pick in return. However, if a contender is looking for an offensive boost, a Koivu-Selanne pairing would surely help for a team that has the cap room to afford them. If the Ducks get into playoff position, then they might be able to do some tweaking for one last Niedermayer-Selanne era charge in the postseason.
CALGARY FLAMES
UFA in 2010: Olli Jokinen, Rene Bourque, Craig Conroy, Eric Nystrom, Jamie Lundmark, Brian McGrattan, Aaron Johnson.
RFA in 2010: Dustin Boyd, Brandon Prust.
Top Prospects:
Mikael Backlund, C Abbotsford (AHL)
Leland Irving, G, Abbotsford (AHL)
Greg Nemisz, RW, Windsor (OHL)
Keith Aulie, D, Abbotsford (AHL)
Tim Erixon, Skelleftea (SEL)
Others of Interest: Daymond Langkow, David Moss, Fredrik Sjostrom, Cory Sarich.
No-Trade Clauses: Jarome Iginla, Miikka Kiprusoff, Robyn Regehr.
The Plan: Suddenly in a fight for a playoff spot, the Flames have slumped lately and need to bolster their attack if they are going to make good on their strong start to the season. The league's 28th-ranked power play could use some help, as could the offence as a whole, since Jarome Iginla and Rene Bourque are the only two Flames on pace to score more than 20 goals this season. Perhaps there would be a seller interested in a reasonably-priced David Moss or a prospect or pick in exchange for a proven finisher.
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS
UFA in 2010: John Madden, Adam Burish.
RFA in 2010: Andrew Ladd, Ben Eager, Colin Fraser, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Jordan Hendry, Antti Niemi.
Top Prospects:
Kyle Beach, LW, Spokane (WHL)
Shawn Lalonde, D, Belleville (OHL)
Dylan Olsen, D, Minnesota-Dluth (WCHA)
Jack Skille, RW, Rockford (AHL)
Billy Sweatt, LW, Colorado College (WCHA)
Others of Interest: Patrick Sharp, Cam Barker, Brent Sopel.
No-Trade Clauses: Brian Campbell.
The Plan: An elite team in the league to this point in the season, the Blackhawks don't need to make significant moves, yet as Cup contenders, it seems inconceivable that they wouldn't augment their roster by adding veteran depth on the blueline and up front, though a potentially tight salary cap situation could prompt a move that sees Brent Sopel or Cam Barker moved in the right deal.
COLORADO AVALANCHE
UFA in 2010: Darcy Tucker, Marek Svatos, David Koci, Matt Hendricks, Chris Durno, Brett Clark, Ruslan Salei, Adam Foote, Peter Budaj.
RFA in 2010: Wojtek Wolski, Chris Stewart, Brandon Yip, Kyle Quincey.
Top Prospects:
Kevin Shattenkirk, D, Boston University (HE)
Ryan Stoa, C, Lake Erie (AHL)
Colby Cohen, D, Boston University (HE)
Stefan Elliott, D, Saskatoon (WHL)
Cameron Gaunce, D, Mississauga-St. Mike's (OHL)
Others of Interest: Tom Preissing.
No-Trade Clauses: Adam Foote, Scott Hannan, Milan Hejduk, John-Michael Liles.
The Plan: Even though the Avalanche have been one of the league's biggest surprises this season, this is a franchise that is building through youth, so there shouldn't be any dramatic moves involving young players or top prospects for rentals. If a mid-round pick or middling prospect can get the Avs some experience, then it might be worthwhile, but to secure a top-pair defenceman, the Avs may have to get creative.
COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS
UFA in 2010: Fredrik Modin, Raffi Torres, Milan Jurcina.
RFA in 2010: Alexandre Picard, Jared Boll, Anton Stralman, Mathieu Roy.
Top Prospects:
Nikita Filatov, LW CSKA Moscow (KHL)
John Moore, D, Kitchener (OHL)
Cody Goloubef, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Maxim Mayorov, LW, Syracuse (AHL)
Matt Calvert, LW, Brandon (WHL)
Others of Interest: Kristian Huselius, R.J. Umberger, Derick Brassard, Samuel Pahlsson, Nikita Filatov, Rostislav Klesla.
No-Trade Clauses: Mike Commodore, Fredrik Modin.
The Plan: The playoffs are a longshot for the Blue Jackets now, as goaltending has been a problem and there hasn't been enough development of young talent. If the Jackets are in cost-saving mode, veterans Kristian Huselius, R.J. Umberger and Rostislav Klesla are paid quite a bit relative to what they provide, though they may not be easy to move due to long-term contracts. Columbus has a decent core of young talent, but somehow has to find the right mix of players for Ken Hitchcock's system, a system that seemed to alienate top prospect Nikita Filatov, who returned to Russia when he wasn't getting enough playing time early in the season.
DALLAS STARS
UFA in 2010: Mike Modano, Jere Lehtinen, Steve Ott, Krys Barch, Toby Petersen, Warren Peters, Marty Turco, Alex Auld.
RFA in 2010: Fabian Brunnstrom, James Neal, Tom Wandell, Nicklas Grossman, Matt Niskanen.
Top Prospects:
Ivan Vishnevskiy, D, Texas (AHL)
Philip Larsen, D, Vastra Frolunda (SEL)
Scott Glennie, RW, Brandon (WHL)
Alex Chiasson, RW, Boston University (HE)
Colton Sceviour, RW, Texas (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jeff Woywitka.
No-Trade Clauses: Mike Modano, Brenden Morrow, Brad Richards, Marty Turco.
The Plan: On the outside looking in at the playoffs, the Stars are close enough to remain in the hunt for now, but if they fall further away from eighth spot in the West, it could be time to begin a roster overhaul that has been due for a while. While face of the franchise Mike Modano may not be going anywhere, an agitator like Steve Ott might have some appeal for a contender and the Stars may want to consider a move to address their goaltending as 34-year-old Marty Turco does not appear to be the future between the pipes. With loads of cap room available, the Stars could (at least theoretically) acquire assets if they are willing to take on salary.
DETROIT RED WINGS
UFA in 2010: Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, Jason Williams, Kirk Maltby, Brad May, Nicklas Lidstrom, Andreas Lilja, Brett Lebda, Doug Janik.
RFA in 2010: Justin Abdelkader, Darren Helm, Drew Miller, Patrick Eaves, Derek Meech.
Top Prospects:
Brendan Smith, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Tomas Tatar, C, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Jan Mursak, RW, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Jakub Kindl, D, Grand Rapids (AHL)
Gustav Nyquist, C, Maine (HE)
Others of Interest: Ville Leino.
No-Trade Clauses: Dan Cleary, Pavel Datsyuk, Kris Draper, Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Brad Stuart.
The Plan: Still battling for playoff position, the Red Wings have been treading water while waiting to get healthy enough in order to mount a sustained charge towards the postseason. If the Wings get to full strength, they still have a roster capable of making a playoff run, but it certainly feels like a last charge for some of the elder statesmen, so Detroit doesn't figure to make moves that would sacrifice their most promising future performers.
EDMONTON OILERS
UFA in 2010: Fernando Pisani, Mike Comrie, Jason Strudwick.
RFA in 2010: Sam Gagner, Andrew Cogliano, Marc Pouliot, Gilbert Brule, Ryan Stone, Ryan Potulny, Jean-Francois Jacques, Denis Grebeshkov, Jeff Deslauriers, Devan Dubnyk.
Top Prospects:
Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson, LW, Timra IK (SEL)
Jordan Eberle, RW, Regina (WHL)
Anton Lander, C, Timra (SEL)
Riley Nash, C, Cornell (ECAC)
Jeff Petry, D, Michigan State (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Shawn Horcoff, Patrick O'Sullivan, Ethan Moreau, Robert Nilsson, Tom Gilbert, Steve Staios.
No-Trade Clauses: Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovsky.
The Plan: A disastrous season, combined with a quality list of prospects, puts the Oilers in position to rebuild by shedding veterans and going younger. Sheldon Souray has said he will waive his no-trade clause if a deal makes sense. Souray's hammer from the point could have some appeal, but he also has two years and $10.8-million left on his deal after this season, so the Oilers may not get much more than cap relief in a Souray swap. The Oilers would presumably love to move the salaries of veterans like Shawn Horcoff (which seems highly unlikely), Steve Staios, Robert Nilsson or even captain Ethan Moreau, though their appeal will be minimized by the remaining time and money left on their contracts. Defencemen Tom Gilbert and Denis Grebeshkov were more marketable last season and if the Oilers really want to shake things up, they could shop some of their upcoming restricted free agents, young players that haven't established that they have what it takes to get this team to the playoffs.
LOS ANGELES KINGS
UFA in 2010: Alexander Frolov, Raitis Ivanans, Randy Jones, Sean O'Donnell.
RFA in 2010: Teddy Purcell, Brad Richardson, Scott Parse.
Top Prospects:
Jonathan Bernier, G, Manchester (AHL)
Brayden Schenn, C, Brandon (WHL)
Vyacheslav Voynov, D, Manchester (AHL)
Thomas Hickey, D, Manchester (AHL)
Colten Teubert, D, Regina (WHL)
Others of Interest: Oscar Moller, Davis Drewiske, Colten Teubert.
No-Trade Clauses: Michal Handzus, Ryan Smyth.
The Plan: After several seasons of building from within, the Kings are now in position to make some noise in the postseason, so it's worth sacrificing some of that future talent if it's going to help the Kings hold onto a playoff spot. The Kings have the organizational depth that they can be players for any marquee names that are offered at the deadline, including Ilya Kovalchuk.
MINNESOTA WILD
UFA in 2010: Owen Nolan, Eric Belanger, Petr Sykora, Derek Boogaard, Andrew Ebbett, Kim Johnsson, Marek Zidlicky, Shane Hnidy, John Scott.
RFA in 2010: James Sheppard, Guillaume Latendresse, Cal Clutterbuck, Robbie Earl, Josh Harding.
Top Prospects:
Marco Scandella, D, Val d'Or (QMJHL)
Tyler Cuma, D, Ottawa (OHL)
Matt Hackett, G, Plymouth (OHL)
Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota (WCHA)
Colton Gillies, LW, Houston (AHL)
Others of Interest: Antti Miettinen, Chuck Kobasew.
No-Trade Clauses: None.
The Plan: Lurking on the edges of the playoff picture, the Wild have played better since a slow start under new head coach Todd Richards, but their play leading up to the trade deadline will determine if they are still in the playoff race or will be able to offer a variety of veterans who will be free agents in the summer. Getting Brent Burns back in the lineup should help, but there are only three defencemen under contract for next season, so there could be some blueline changes forthcoming if the Wild are inclined to sell.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS
UFA in 2010: Jordin Tootoo, Wade Belak, Dan Hamhuis, Francis Bouillon, Dan Ellis, Pekka Rinne.
RFA in 2010: Patric Hornqvist, Andreas Thuresson, Marcel Goc, Cody Franson.
Top Prospects:
Jon Blum, D, Milwaukee (AHL)
Ryan Ellis, D, Milwaukee (AHL)
Chet Pickard, G, Milwaukee (AHL)
Taylor Beck, LW, Guelph (OHL)
Roman Josi, D, Bern (Switzerland)
Others of Interest: Martin Erat, Ryan Jones, Colin Wilson, Nick Spaling, Cal O'Reilly.
No-Trade Clauses: Jason Arnott, J.P. Dumont, David Legwand.
The Plan: The Predators have overachieved, again, and are in the Western Conference playoff picture. That being the case, the Predators should be looking to bolster their roster around the deadline. While there's no shortage of cap room, how big and bold their additions -- some experience on the blueline and another proven scorer would be nice -- before the deadline will depend on the internal budget.
PHOENIX COYOTES
UFA in 2010: Matthew Lombardi, Robert Lang, Taylor Pyatt, Adrian Aucoin, Zbynek Michalek, Anders Eriksson.
RFA in 2010: Peter Mueller, Scottie Upshall, Martin Hanzal, Daniel Winnik, Paul Bissonnette, Sami Lepisto.
Top Prospects:
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D, Leksands (Sweden)
Kyle Turris, C, San Antonio (AHL)
Viktor Tikhonov, LW, CSKA Moscow (KHL)
Brett MacLean, LW, San Antonio (AHL)
Chris Summers, D, Michigan (CCHA)
Others of Interest: Kevin Porter.
No-Trade Clauses: Shane Doan, Ed Jovanovski.
The Plan: Shockingly in playoff position, the Coyotes should, at least theoretically, be in position to add some help as the deadline approaches if it's deemed appropriate given the ownership situation. While there seems little likelihood that the Coyotes will surrender top prospects in a deal, they do hold two first-round picks and could definitely use some proven scoring help to boost the 24th-ranked power play.
SAN JOSE SHARKS
UFA in 2010: Patrick Marleau, Scott Nichol, Manny Malhotra, Jody Shelley, Jed Ortmeyer, Rob Blake, Jay Leach, Evgeni Nabokov.
RFA in 2010: Joe Pavelski, Devin Setoguchi, Brad Staubitz.
Top Prospects:
Logan Couture, C, Worcester (AHL)
Nick Petrecki, D, Worcester (AHL)
Harri Sateri, G, Tappara Tampere (FNL)
Alex Stalock, G, Worcester (AHL)
Steven Zalewski, C, Worcester (AHL)
Others of Interest: Torrey Mitchell, Jamie McGinn, Benn Ferriero, Frazer McLaren, Derek Joslin.
No-Trade Clauses: Dan Boyle, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Dany Heatley, Evgeni Nabokov.
The Plan: Cruising through the regular season, the Sharks have a championship run in them, but could still augment their roster in order to finally get over the hump, perhaps looking for some blueline help or a veteran forward that can play both ends of the rink and give the second line a boost when it needs a shake-up -- the kind of tweaking that Cup contenders make, rather than dramatic and desperate roster changes.
ST. LOUIS BLUES
UFA in 2010: Paul Kariya, Keith Tkachuk, Brad Winchester, Carlo Colaiacovo, Darryl Sydor, Mike Weaver, Chris Mason.
RFA in 2010: Alexander Steen, David Perron, Cam Janssen, D.J. King, Erik Johnson.
Top Prospects:
Alex Pietrangelo, D, Barrie (OHL)
Lars Eller, LW, Peoria (AHL)
Ian Cole, D, Notre Dame (CCHA)
Jonas Junland, D, Peoria (AHL)
David Rundblad, D, Skelleftea (SEL)
Others of Interest: Andy McDonald, Brad Boyes, Patrik Berglund.
No-Trade Clauses: Eric Brewer, Barret Jackman, Paul Kariya, Keith Tkachuk.
The Plan: Underachieving and out of the playoff picture right now, the Blues need to make a charge if they are going to get back into the race and they have been playing better under new head coach Davis Payne. An already young team, the Blues either need their young players like T.J. Oshie, Patrik Berglund, David Perron and Erik Johnson to rise up and lead the way or have to find players capable of ultimately filling the leadership role as veterans Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk are in the twilight of their careers.
VANCOUVER CANUCKS
UFA in 2010: Pavol Demitra, Kyle Wellwood, Ryan Johnson, Willie Mitchell, Brad Lukowich, Andrew Raycroft.
RFA in 2010: Ryan Kesler, Mason Raymond, Jannik Hansen, Alexandre Bolduc, Tanner Glass, Shane O'Brien, Aaron Rome.
Top Prospects:
Cory Schneider, G, Manitoba (AHL)
Cody Hodgson, C, Brampton (OHL)
Michael Grabner, RW, Manitoba (AHL)
Jordan Schroeder, C, Minnesota (WCHA)
Anton Rodin, RW, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Others of Interest: Sergei Shirokov.
No-Trade Clauses: Roberto Luongo, Sami Salo, Willie Mitchell.
The Plan: Locked in a battle for playoff position, particularly when considering the daunting road trip that surrounds the Olympic break, the Canucks have what it takes to be a contender. The forward units got a boost with the return of Pavol Demitra, so if they wish to supplement their core, perhaps with a veteran defenceman to aid a unit that can't seem to stay healthy for very long, Vancouver will have to be mindful of the cap when it comes to acquisitions, but has enough young talent to offer in exchange.
Trade Deadlind Playbook: Eastern Conference
As it stands now, in late January, only the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes are more than three points out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, so that leaves a whole lot of teams vying for a berth in the postseason.
If the top four spots seems securely in hand in some order for Washington, New Jersey, Buffalo and Pittsburgh, that leaves nine teams within seven points trying to get one of the next four spots.
That tight competition could create some pressure on teams to make moves to improve, while some will exercise caution because this year's playoffs aren't a priority in the long-term development of the franchise. Sure, it would be nice for the Islanders or Lightning to squeeze into the postseason, but they surely won't sacrifice any of their young talent in order to improve those chances.
As time goes on, more teams will fall out of the playoff picture and turn to selling mode, but right now, Carolina and Toronto look to have the seller's market to themselves, if only they could convince the buyers to make a deal.
A couple of notes about the following chart:
Restricted Free Agents (RFA) have contracts that expire this summer, barring a contract extension in the meantime, but their current team retains the right to match a contract offer so long as they make the requisite qualifying offer. While restricted free agents haven't moved a lot, it's worth noting when decision time is coming on a young player's contract.
Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA) have contracts that will expire this summer and, without a contract extension, they will be free to sign with whatever team they choose on July 1. These are the players that often move in "rental"-type deals, ideally providing a short-term fix with minimal commitment required.
Top prospects are the top five players in each organization that haven't played ten NHL games this season. Other top prospects or those that are now with the NHL team may be listed among other players of interest. Contending teams may be more likely to dangle a top prospect or two as they try to find that final piece for their playoff mix, while it's safe to assume that young and rebuilding teams aren't going to move top prospects unless they get a significant long-term piece in return.
Other players of interest will include prospects who have spent some time in the NHL this season as well as players under contract for future seasons that may have some level of attractiveness on the trade market.
IMPORTANT: Just because a player is listed as being of interest, it doesn't mean he will be traded or should be traded. Some may just be of interest for teams looking to hit a home run when trying to swing a deal or they are players that may be considered to be underachieving for the money they are due over the rest of their contract.
Generally, then, here's a rough guide for which players each Eastern Conference team might have at their disposal in order to make a trade leading up to the deadline.
ATLANTA THRASHERS
UFA in 2010: Ilya Kovalchuk, Vyacheslav Kozlov, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater, Maxim Afinogenov, Eric Boulton, Pavel Kubina, Christoph Schubert, Mark Popovic, Johan Hedberg.
RFA in 2010: Bryan Little, Kari Lehtonen, Ondrej Pavelec.
Top Prospects:
Carl Klingberg, LW, Vastra Frolunda (SEL)
Jeremy Morin, LW, Kitchener (OHL)
Spencer Machacek, C, Chicago (AHL)
Daultan Leveille, C, Michigan State (CCHA)
Arturs Kulda, D, Chicago (AHL)
Others of Interest: Todd White.
No-Trade Clauses: Ron Hainsey, Vyacheslav Kozlov, Pavel Kubina.
The Plan: The Thrashers' great start to the season provided hope that they would be able to re-sign Ilya Kovalchuk, but with each passing day that prospect becomes less and less likely. It could still happen, but the vultures are circling, looking to pry the elite goal-scorer away. To make that move, the Thrashers need to bring in several pieces that will help the remaining core move forward. If Kovalchuk is dealt, it would also make sense for the Thrashers to move others in their long list of pending free agents in an effort to re-stock the system.
BOSTON BRUINS
UFA in 2010: Mark Recchi, Steve Begin, Miroslav Satan, Shawn Thornton, Derek Morris, Andrew Ference.
RFA in 2010: Dan Paille, Blake Wheeler, Vladimir Sobotka, Mark Stuart, Johnny Boychuk.
Top Prospects:
Joe Colborne, C, Denver (WCHA)
Yuri Alexandrov, D, Cherepovets Severstal (KHL)
Zach Hamill, C, Providence (AHL)
Jordan Caron, RW, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Tommy Cross, D, Boston College (HE)
Others of Interest: Dennis Wideman, Brad Marchand, Matt Hunwick.
No-Trade Clauses: Zdeno Chara, Marc Savard, Marco Sturm.
The Plan: The Bruins have stumbled along for most of the season, dealing with injuries to key performers, and sit on the playoff bubble though they are certainly capable of doing some damage, even as a lower seed, in the postseason. A good portion of Boston's core is in place for next season, so any moves to improve this year's team figure to come at the expense of prospects or draft picks. Speaking of draft picks, it would likely have to be an overwhelming offer to pry away the Boston first-round pick that previously belonged to the Toronto Maple Leafs; a pick that looks like a Top Three selection. But, Toronto's second-rounder could also have some appeal to selling teams.
BUFFALO SABRES
UFA in 2010: Mike Grier, Adam Mair, Matt Ellis, Toni Lydman, Henrik Tallinder, Nathan Paetsch, Patrick Lalime.
RFA in 2010: Clark MacArthur, Tim Kennedy, Patrick Kaleta.
Top Prospects:
Jhonas Enroth, G, Portland (AHL)
Tyler Ennis, C, Portland (AHL)
Zack Kassian, RW, Windsor (OHL)
Mike Weber, D, Portland (AHL)
Luke Adam, C, Cape Breton (QMJHL)
Others of Interest: Drew Stafford, Nathan Gerbe, Andrej Sekera, Chris Butler.
No-Trade Clauses: Ryan Miller.
The Plan: Running away with the Northeast Division on the strength of Ryan Miller's exceptional goaltending behind a solid and deep team, the Sabres could use some upgrades, most notably a power play quarterback on defence; ideally one that could also handle top-pair minutes and ease the pressure on stalwart rookie blueliner Tyler Myers. Those don't come that easily via trade, so the Sabres may be left to patch up holes if they can't make a blockbuster.
CAROLINA HURRICANES
UFA in 2010: Ray Whitney, Matt Cullen, Scott Walker, Stephane Yelle, Joe Corvo, Aaron Ward, Niclas Wallin, Manny Legace.
RFA in 2010: Jiri Tlusty, Brett Carson.
Top Prospects:
Zach Boychuk, RW, Albany (AHL)
Drayson Bowman, LW, Albany (AHL)
Jamie McBain, D, Albany (AHL)
Zac Dalpe, C, Ohio State (CCHA)
Mike Murphy, G, Albany (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jerome Samson, Erik Cole, Sergei Samsonov.
No-Trade Clauses: Ray Whitney, Scott Walker, Niclas Wallin.
The Plan: The Hurricanes are paying the price for loyalty, with veterans like Rod Brind'Amour, Erik Cole and Sergei Samsonov all inked for another year beyond this miserable season, meaning that attempts to purge the roster won't likely get fully undertaken until the summer. In the meantime, however, the 'Canes have a number of young prospects on the way that can use the latter portion of the season to audition for full-time work next season and Carolina should be able to get a decent return for a veteran rental like Ray Whitney, whose power play ability will make him a nice fit for many contenders, and a healthy Joe Corvo could also be appealing to a contender needing a big shot from the point.
FLORIDA PANTHERS
UFA in 2010: Dominic Moore, Dennis Seidenberg, Jordan Leopold.
RFA in 2010: Kenndal McArdle, Greg Campbell, Kamil Kreps, Nick Tarnasky, Jason Garrison.
Top Prospects:
Jacob Markstrom, G, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Keaton Ellerby, D, Rochester (AHL)
Colby Robak, D, Brandon (WHL)
Evgeny Dadonov, RW, Rochester (AHL)
Alexander Salak, G, Rochester (AHL)
Others of Interest: Cory Stillman, Ville Koistinen.
No-Trade Clauses: Keith Ballard, Bryan McCabe, Tomas Vokoun.
The Plan: The season could go either way for the Panthers, who have clawed their way into playoff consideration, with strong goaltending from Tomas Vokoun but any slip in their play could put them in selling position. The recent injury to leading scorer Nathan Horton only makes the playoff push more challenging. If so, there are a few veterans on one-year deals that might help a playoff team and allow the Panthers to continue developing their young talent.
MONTREAL CANADIENS
UFA in 2010: Tomas Plekanec, Glen Metropolit, Paul Mara, Marc-Andre Bergeron.
RFA in 2010: Sergei Kostitsyn, Benoit Pouliot, Maxim Lapierre, Matt D'Agostini, Carey Price, Jaroslav Halak.
Top Prospects:
P.K. Subban, D, Hamilton (AHL)
Ben Maxwell, C, Hamilton (AHL)
Cedrick Desjardins, G, Hamilton (AHL)
Louis Leblanc, C, Harvard (ECAC)
Brock Trotter, C, Hamilton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Georges Laraque, Ryan White, Yannick Weber.
No-Trade Clauses: Scott Gomez, Roman Hamrlik, Andrei Markov, Georges Laraque.
The Plan: Much like the Panthers, the Canadiens' season could go either way, but they have no safety net if they are going to push for a playoff spot. As long as the playoffs are within reach, Montreal figures to aim in that direction, without sacrificing top prospects. Should the Habs fade, there is the possibility of trading pending free agent centre Tomas Plekanec , the team's leading scorer, who could be difficult to re-sign when last summer's trio of acquisitions -- Scott Gomez, Mike Cammalleri and Brian Gionta -- are all taking in more than $5-million per season. Given the play of Cedrick Desjardins in the AHL, there's also the possibility that Montreal could move a goaltender, with Jaroslav Halak the one who has been rumoured more often.
NEW JERSEY DEVILS
UFA in 2010: Rob Niedermayer, Ilkka Pikkarainen, Dean McAmmond, Paul Martin, Mike Mottau, Yann Danis.
RFA in 2010: David Clarkson, Niclas Bergfors, Rod Pelley, Mark Fraser.
Top Prospects:
Mattias Tedenby, LW, VH71 Jonkoping (SEL)
Jacob Josefson, C, Djurgardens (SEL)
Jeff Frazee, G, Lowell (AHL)
Brandon Burlon, D, Michigan (CCHA)
Patrice Cormier, C, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Others of Interest: Vladimir Zharkov, Matt Halischuk, Matthew Corrente, Tyler Eckford.
No-Trade Clauses: Martin Brodeur, Patrik Elias, Jamie Langenbrunner, Jay Pandolfo, Brian Rolston, Colin White.
The Plan: Once again challenging for top spot in the Eastern Conference, the Devils have a strong roster, when healthy, though injuries have been an issue, in some manner, for most of the season. Ideally, New Jersey would be able to secure the services of a big-minute defenceman which, combined with a presumably healthy Paul Martin, would have the Devils' D in fine shape entering the postseason.
NEW YORK ISLANDERS
UFA in 2010: Doug Weight, Jon Sim, Richard Park, Tim Jackman, Andy Sutton, Freddy Meyer, Martin Biron.
RFA in 2010: Sean Bergenheim, Rob Schremp, Jeff Tambellini, Matt Moulson, Nate Thompson, Andrew MacDonald.
Top Prospects:
Calvin De Haan, D, Oshawa (OHL)
Jesse Joensuu, LW, Bridgeport (AHL)
Travis Hamonic, D, Brandon (WHL)
Rhett Rakhshani, RW, Denver (WCHA)
Jason Gregoire, LW, North Dakota (WCHA)
Others of Interest: Brendan Witt, Bruno Gervais.
No-Trade Clauses: None.
The Plan: The surging Islanders have entered the playoff race, but with such a young squad, there is no reason to get crazy and risk any of the future for an eighth seed this year. As long as the Isles hang in the race, they probably have to hold onto their veterans too, but if they fall off the pace, they have some guys who should have some marketability, including Martin Biron and Andy Sutton.
NEW YORK RANGERS
UFA in 2010: Chris Higgins, Vaclav Prospal.
RFA in 2010: Enver Lisin, Erik Christensen, Daniel Girardi, Marc Staal.
Top Prospects:
Evgeny Grachev, LW, Hartford (AHL)
Bobby Sanguinetti, D, Hartford (AHL)
Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Derek Stepan, C, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Chris Kreider, C, Boston College (HE)
Others of Interest: Ales Kotalik, Dane Byers, Ilkka Heikkinen.
No-Trade Clauses: Chris Drury, Wade Redden, Michal Rozsival.
The Plan: The Rangers are in playoff position, and have strong goaltending along with a capable young defence, but could really use an offensive upgrade if they are going to stay in the mix or do any damage in the playoffs. Marian Gaborik is the only legitimate sniper and needs more help than the likes of Brandon Dubinsky or Ryan Callahan -- Nos. 2 and 3 in the Blueshirts' goal race -- can provide.
OTTAWA SENATORS
UFA in 2010: Shean Donovan, Ryan Shannon, Anton Volchenkov, Mike Brodeur.
RFA in 2010: Nick Foligno, Peter Regin, Jesse Winchester, Alexandre Picard, Chris Campoli.
Top Prospects:
Jared Cowen, D, Spokane (WHL)
Robin Lehner, G, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver (WCHA)
Jacob Silfverberg, RW, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Brian Lee, D, Binghamton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jonathan Cheechoo, Zack Smith, Kaspars Daugavins, Ryan Keller, Josh Hennessy.
No-Trade Clauses: Daniel Alfredsson, Mike Fisher, Filip Kuba, Chris Phillips.
The Plan: Goaltending is going to be crucial for the Senators down the stretch. If they can get strong play in net, no matter whether it's Pascal Leclaire, Brian Elliott or even Mike Brodeur, the Senators can focus on other needs, like another solid defenceman, given the defensive challenges that rookie Erik Karlsson and Chris Campoli have gone through at times this season.
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS
UFA in 2010: Arron Asham, Blair Betts, Mika Pyorala, Mike Rathje, Ray Emery, Michael Leighton.
RFA in 2010: Daniel Carcillo, Darroll Powe, Braydon Coburn, Ryan Parent, Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, Danny Syvret.
Top Prospects:
Patrick Maroon, LW, Adirondack (AHL)
Marc-Andre Bourdon, D, Adirondack (AHL)
Joonas Lehtivuori, D, Adirondack (AHL)
Jonathan Matsumoto, C, Adirondack (AHL)
Stefan Legein, RW, Adirondack (AHL)
Others of Interest: Brian Boucher, David Laliberte, Andreas Nodl, Jon Kalinski.
No-Trade Clauses: Daniel Briere, Simon Gagne, Scott Hartnell, Kimmo Timonen.
The Plan: There's not a lot of wiggle room for the Flyers, but they do seem to have the talent necessary to make up ground in the Eastern Conference and get into a solid playoff position. Maybe a depth defenceman would help, but the focal point for Philly is going to be goaltending, whether or not Ray Emery or, improbably, Michael Leighton can be the guy to take this team up against the other Cup contenders.
PITTSBURGH PENGUINS
UFA in 2010: Bill Guerin, Ruslan Fedotenko, Matt Cooke, Sergei Gonchar, Mark Eaton, Jay McKee, Martin Skoula, Brent Johnson.
RFA in 2010: Kristopher Letang, Ben Lovejoy.
Top Prospects:
Luca Caputi, LW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Eric Tangradi, LW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Simon Despres, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
Keven Veilleux, RW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Brian Strait, D, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Dustin Jeffrey, Nick Johnson, Mark Letestu, Deryk Engelland.
No-Trade Clauses: Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik.
The Plan: Defending the Stanley Cup isn't easy and the Penguins are finding that out, with a midseason slump revealing some vulnerability that might not have been expected. There have also been numerous injuries to deal with and the Penguins can always use another scoring winger to complement their playmaking centres, but they have lots of talent in the organization to make such a deal if it's deemed necessary.
TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING
UFA in 2010: Alex Tanguay, Jeff Halpern, Stephane Veilleux, Brandon Bochenski, Zenon Konopka, David Hale, Kurtis Foster, Antero Niittymaki.
RFA in 2010: Steve Downie, Paul Szczechura, Paul Ranger, Mike Lundin.
Top Prospects:
Carter Ashton, RW, Brandon (WHL)
Richard Panik, C, Belleville (OHL)
Dustin Tokarski, G, Norfolk (AHL)
Blair Jones, C, Norfolk (AHL)
Alex Hutchings, LW, Barrie (OHL)
Others of Interest: Todd Fedoruk, Andrej Meszaros.
No-Trade Clauses: Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis.
The Plan: Within striking distance of a playoff spot, the Lightning have an intriguing mix of young and veteran talent and really need Alex Tanguay to elevate his production in order to give them to quality scoring lines to stay engaged in the playoff hunt. Otherwise, Tanguay figures to be expendable. Given the young talent on the roster, the Lightning won't sacrifice the future just to contend for a playoff spot, but the longer they stay in the playoff race, the less they could be involved as sellers.
TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS
UFA in 2010: Lee Stempniak, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Matt Stajan, Wayne Primeau, Jamal Mayers, Mike Van Ryn, Garnet Exelby, Vesa Toskala.
RFA in 2010: Nikolai Kulemin, John Mitchell, Ian White, Jonas Gustavsson.
Top Prospects:
Nazem Kadri, C, London (OHL)
Mikhail Stefanovich, RW, Quebec (QMJHL)
Jimmy Hayes, RW, Boston College (HE)
Christian Hanson, RW, Toronto (AHL)
Jerry D'Amigo, RW, R.P.I. (ECAC)
Others of Interest: Jason Blake, Tyler Bozak, Viktor Stalberg, Jeff Finger.
No-Trade Clauses: Niklas Hagman, Tomas Kaberle.
The Plan: With no picks in the first two rounds, the Maple Leafs will be interested in acquiring draft picks and prospects in any deals and have some pieces to offer contenders, though Tomas Kaberle is the only one that would figure to net a first round pick in return. Leafs GM Brian Burke seems anxious to get dealing, wondering why teams wait until right before the deadline to make moves. The Leafs do have some prospects on the way and could use the latter portion of the season to see what kind of future they might have with Tyler Bozak, Viktor Stalberg and Christian Hanson, but need to move out some veterans in order to create enough room in the lineup.
WASHINGTON CAPITALS
UFA in 2010: Brendan Morrison, Quintin Laing, Brian Pothier, Shaone Morrisonn, Jose Theodore.
RFA in 2010: Nicklas Backstrom, Eric Fehr, Boyd Bordon, Tomas Fleischmann, Jeff Schultz.
Top Prospects:
John Carlson, D, Hershey (AHL)
Marcus Johansson, C, Farjestads (SEL)
Mathieu Perreault, C, Hershey (AHL)
Francois Bouchard, RW, Hershey (AHL)
Oskar Osala, LW, Hershey (AHL)
Others of Interest: Karl Alzner, Michal Neuvirth, Anton Gustafsson.
No-Trade Clauses: Michael Nylander.
The Plan: The Caps could be Cup contenders if they shore up their defence and have a healthy Semyon Varlamov in goal. With the cap-saving trade of Chris Clark and Milan Jurcina to Columbus, as well as the waiving of Michael Nylander and his hefty contract, Washington has room to add salary. It might seem unnecessary, but the high-scoring Caps could get involved in Ilya Kovalchuk trade talks, yet moves to bolster the defence may be more cost-effective come playoff time. If a deal doesn't materialize to improve the defence, the Caps could look internally to youngsters John Carlson and Karl Alzner to provide a late-season boost.
If the top four spots seems securely in hand in some order for Washington, New Jersey, Buffalo and Pittsburgh, that leaves nine teams within seven points trying to get one of the next four spots.
That tight competition could create some pressure on teams to make moves to improve, while some will exercise caution because this year's playoffs aren't a priority in the long-term development of the franchise. Sure, it would be nice for the Islanders or Lightning to squeeze into the postseason, but they surely won't sacrifice any of their young talent in order to improve those chances.
As time goes on, more teams will fall out of the playoff picture and turn to selling mode, but right now, Carolina and Toronto look to have the seller's market to themselves, if only they could convince the buyers to make a deal.
A couple of notes about the following chart:
Restricted Free Agents (RFA) have contracts that expire this summer, barring a contract extension in the meantime, but their current team retains the right to match a contract offer so long as they make the requisite qualifying offer. While restricted free agents haven't moved a lot, it's worth noting when decision time is coming on a young player's contract.
Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA) have contracts that will expire this summer and, without a contract extension, they will be free to sign with whatever team they choose on July 1. These are the players that often move in "rental"-type deals, ideally providing a short-term fix with minimal commitment required.
Top prospects are the top five players in each organization that haven't played ten NHL games this season. Other top prospects or those that are now with the NHL team may be listed among other players of interest. Contending teams may be more likely to dangle a top prospect or two as they try to find that final piece for their playoff mix, while it's safe to assume that young and rebuilding teams aren't going to move top prospects unless they get a significant long-term piece in return.
Other players of interest will include prospects who have spent some time in the NHL this season as well as players under contract for future seasons that may have some level of attractiveness on the trade market.
IMPORTANT: Just because a player is listed as being of interest, it doesn't mean he will be traded or should be traded. Some may just be of interest for teams looking to hit a home run when trying to swing a deal or they are players that may be considered to be underachieving for the money they are due over the rest of their contract.
Generally, then, here's a rough guide for which players each Eastern Conference team might have at their disposal in order to make a trade leading up to the deadline.
ATLANTA THRASHERS
UFA in 2010: Ilya Kovalchuk, Vyacheslav Kozlov, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater, Maxim Afinogenov, Eric Boulton, Pavel Kubina, Christoph Schubert, Mark Popovic, Johan Hedberg.
RFA in 2010: Bryan Little, Kari Lehtonen, Ondrej Pavelec.
Top Prospects:
Carl Klingberg, LW, Vastra Frolunda (SEL)
Jeremy Morin, LW, Kitchener (OHL)
Spencer Machacek, C, Chicago (AHL)
Daultan Leveille, C, Michigan State (CCHA)
Arturs Kulda, D, Chicago (AHL)
Others of Interest: Todd White.
No-Trade Clauses: Ron Hainsey, Vyacheslav Kozlov, Pavel Kubina.
The Plan: The Thrashers' great start to the season provided hope that they would be able to re-sign Ilya Kovalchuk, but with each passing day that prospect becomes less and less likely. It could still happen, but the vultures are circling, looking to pry the elite goal-scorer away. To make that move, the Thrashers need to bring in several pieces that will help the remaining core move forward. If Kovalchuk is dealt, it would also make sense for the Thrashers to move others in their long list of pending free agents in an effort to re-stock the system.
BOSTON BRUINS
UFA in 2010: Mark Recchi, Steve Begin, Miroslav Satan, Shawn Thornton, Derek Morris, Andrew Ference.
RFA in 2010: Dan Paille, Blake Wheeler, Vladimir Sobotka, Mark Stuart, Johnny Boychuk.
Top Prospects:
Joe Colborne, C, Denver (WCHA)
Yuri Alexandrov, D, Cherepovets Severstal (KHL)
Zach Hamill, C, Providence (AHL)
Jordan Caron, RW, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Tommy Cross, D, Boston College (HE)
Others of Interest: Dennis Wideman, Brad Marchand, Matt Hunwick.
No-Trade Clauses: Zdeno Chara, Marc Savard, Marco Sturm.
The Plan: The Bruins have stumbled along for most of the season, dealing with injuries to key performers, and sit on the playoff bubble though they are certainly capable of doing some damage, even as a lower seed, in the postseason. A good portion of Boston's core is in place for next season, so any moves to improve this year's team figure to come at the expense of prospects or draft picks. Speaking of draft picks, it would likely have to be an overwhelming offer to pry away the Boston first-round pick that previously belonged to the Toronto Maple Leafs; a pick that looks like a Top Three selection. But, Toronto's second-rounder could also have some appeal to selling teams.
BUFFALO SABRES
UFA in 2010: Mike Grier, Adam Mair, Matt Ellis, Toni Lydman, Henrik Tallinder, Nathan Paetsch, Patrick Lalime.
RFA in 2010: Clark MacArthur, Tim Kennedy, Patrick Kaleta.
Top Prospects:
Jhonas Enroth, G, Portland (AHL)
Tyler Ennis, C, Portland (AHL)
Zack Kassian, RW, Windsor (OHL)
Mike Weber, D, Portland (AHL)
Luke Adam, C, Cape Breton (QMJHL)
Others of Interest: Drew Stafford, Nathan Gerbe, Andrej Sekera, Chris Butler.
No-Trade Clauses: Ryan Miller.
The Plan: Running away with the Northeast Division on the strength of Ryan Miller's exceptional goaltending behind a solid and deep team, the Sabres could use some upgrades, most notably a power play quarterback on defence; ideally one that could also handle top-pair minutes and ease the pressure on stalwart rookie blueliner Tyler Myers. Those don't come that easily via trade, so the Sabres may be left to patch up holes if they can't make a blockbuster.
CAROLINA HURRICANES
UFA in 2010: Ray Whitney, Matt Cullen, Scott Walker, Stephane Yelle, Joe Corvo, Aaron Ward, Niclas Wallin, Manny Legace.
RFA in 2010: Jiri Tlusty, Brett Carson.
Top Prospects:
Zach Boychuk, RW, Albany (AHL)
Drayson Bowman, LW, Albany (AHL)
Jamie McBain, D, Albany (AHL)
Zac Dalpe, C, Ohio State (CCHA)
Mike Murphy, G, Albany (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jerome Samson, Erik Cole, Sergei Samsonov.
No-Trade Clauses: Ray Whitney, Scott Walker, Niclas Wallin.
The Plan: The Hurricanes are paying the price for loyalty, with veterans like Rod Brind'Amour, Erik Cole and Sergei Samsonov all inked for another year beyond this miserable season, meaning that attempts to purge the roster won't likely get fully undertaken until the summer. In the meantime, however, the 'Canes have a number of young prospects on the way that can use the latter portion of the season to audition for full-time work next season and Carolina should be able to get a decent return for a veteran rental like Ray Whitney, whose power play ability will make him a nice fit for many contenders, and a healthy Joe Corvo could also be appealing to a contender needing a big shot from the point.
FLORIDA PANTHERS
UFA in 2010: Dominic Moore, Dennis Seidenberg, Jordan Leopold.
RFA in 2010: Kenndal McArdle, Greg Campbell, Kamil Kreps, Nick Tarnasky, Jason Garrison.
Top Prospects:
Jacob Markstrom, G, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Keaton Ellerby, D, Rochester (AHL)
Colby Robak, D, Brandon (WHL)
Evgeny Dadonov, RW, Rochester (AHL)
Alexander Salak, G, Rochester (AHL)
Others of Interest: Cory Stillman, Ville Koistinen.
No-Trade Clauses: Keith Ballard, Bryan McCabe, Tomas Vokoun.
The Plan: The season could go either way for the Panthers, who have clawed their way into playoff consideration, with strong goaltending from Tomas Vokoun but any slip in their play could put them in selling position. The recent injury to leading scorer Nathan Horton only makes the playoff push more challenging. If so, there are a few veterans on one-year deals that might help a playoff team and allow the Panthers to continue developing their young talent.
MONTREAL CANADIENS
UFA in 2010: Tomas Plekanec, Glen Metropolit, Paul Mara, Marc-Andre Bergeron.
RFA in 2010: Sergei Kostitsyn, Benoit Pouliot, Maxim Lapierre, Matt D'Agostini, Carey Price, Jaroslav Halak.
Top Prospects:
P.K. Subban, D, Hamilton (AHL)
Ben Maxwell, C, Hamilton (AHL)
Cedrick Desjardins, G, Hamilton (AHL)
Louis Leblanc, C, Harvard (ECAC)
Brock Trotter, C, Hamilton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Georges Laraque, Ryan White, Yannick Weber.
No-Trade Clauses: Scott Gomez, Roman Hamrlik, Andrei Markov, Georges Laraque.
The Plan: Much like the Panthers, the Canadiens' season could go either way, but they have no safety net if they are going to push for a playoff spot. As long as the playoffs are within reach, Montreal figures to aim in that direction, without sacrificing top prospects. Should the Habs fade, there is the possibility of trading pending free agent centre Tomas Plekanec , the team's leading scorer, who could be difficult to re-sign when last summer's trio of acquisitions -- Scott Gomez, Mike Cammalleri and Brian Gionta -- are all taking in more than $5-million per season. Given the play of Cedrick Desjardins in the AHL, there's also the possibility that Montreal could move a goaltender, with Jaroslav Halak the one who has been rumoured more often.
NEW JERSEY DEVILS
UFA in 2010: Rob Niedermayer, Ilkka Pikkarainen, Dean McAmmond, Paul Martin, Mike Mottau, Yann Danis.
RFA in 2010: David Clarkson, Niclas Bergfors, Rod Pelley, Mark Fraser.
Top Prospects:
Mattias Tedenby, LW, VH71 Jonkoping (SEL)
Jacob Josefson, C, Djurgardens (SEL)
Jeff Frazee, G, Lowell (AHL)
Brandon Burlon, D, Michigan (CCHA)
Patrice Cormier, C, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Others of Interest: Vladimir Zharkov, Matt Halischuk, Matthew Corrente, Tyler Eckford.
No-Trade Clauses: Martin Brodeur, Patrik Elias, Jamie Langenbrunner, Jay Pandolfo, Brian Rolston, Colin White.
The Plan: Once again challenging for top spot in the Eastern Conference, the Devils have a strong roster, when healthy, though injuries have been an issue, in some manner, for most of the season. Ideally, New Jersey would be able to secure the services of a big-minute defenceman which, combined with a presumably healthy Paul Martin, would have the Devils' D in fine shape entering the postseason.
NEW YORK ISLANDERS
UFA in 2010: Doug Weight, Jon Sim, Richard Park, Tim Jackman, Andy Sutton, Freddy Meyer, Martin Biron.
RFA in 2010: Sean Bergenheim, Rob Schremp, Jeff Tambellini, Matt Moulson, Nate Thompson, Andrew MacDonald.
Top Prospects:
Calvin De Haan, D, Oshawa (OHL)
Jesse Joensuu, LW, Bridgeport (AHL)
Travis Hamonic, D, Brandon (WHL)
Rhett Rakhshani, RW, Denver (WCHA)
Jason Gregoire, LW, North Dakota (WCHA)
Others of Interest: Brendan Witt, Bruno Gervais.
No-Trade Clauses: None.
The Plan: The surging Islanders have entered the playoff race, but with such a young squad, there is no reason to get crazy and risk any of the future for an eighth seed this year. As long as the Isles hang in the race, they probably have to hold onto their veterans too, but if they fall off the pace, they have some guys who should have some marketability, including Martin Biron and Andy Sutton.
NEW YORK RANGERS
UFA in 2010: Chris Higgins, Vaclav Prospal.
RFA in 2010: Enver Lisin, Erik Christensen, Daniel Girardi, Marc Staal.
Top Prospects:
Evgeny Grachev, LW, Hartford (AHL)
Bobby Sanguinetti, D, Hartford (AHL)
Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Derek Stepan, C, Wisconsin (WCHA)
Chris Kreider, C, Boston College (HE)
Others of Interest: Ales Kotalik, Dane Byers, Ilkka Heikkinen.
No-Trade Clauses: Chris Drury, Wade Redden, Michal Rozsival.
The Plan: The Rangers are in playoff position, and have strong goaltending along with a capable young defence, but could really use an offensive upgrade if they are going to stay in the mix or do any damage in the playoffs. Marian Gaborik is the only legitimate sniper and needs more help than the likes of Brandon Dubinsky or Ryan Callahan -- Nos. 2 and 3 in the Blueshirts' goal race -- can provide.
OTTAWA SENATORS
UFA in 2010: Shean Donovan, Ryan Shannon, Anton Volchenkov, Mike Brodeur.
RFA in 2010: Nick Foligno, Peter Regin, Jesse Winchester, Alexandre Picard, Chris Campoli.
Top Prospects:
Jared Cowen, D, Spokane (WHL)
Robin Lehner, G, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver (WCHA)
Jacob Silfverberg, RW, Brynas Gavle (SEL)
Brian Lee, D, Binghamton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Jonathan Cheechoo, Zack Smith, Kaspars Daugavins, Ryan Keller, Josh Hennessy.
No-Trade Clauses: Daniel Alfredsson, Mike Fisher, Filip Kuba, Chris Phillips.
The Plan: Goaltending is going to be crucial for the Senators down the stretch. If they can get strong play in net, no matter whether it's Pascal Leclaire, Brian Elliott or even Mike Brodeur, the Senators can focus on other needs, like another solid defenceman, given the defensive challenges that rookie Erik Karlsson and Chris Campoli have gone through at times this season.
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS
UFA in 2010: Arron Asham, Blair Betts, Mika Pyorala, Mike Rathje, Ray Emery, Michael Leighton.
RFA in 2010: Daniel Carcillo, Darroll Powe, Braydon Coburn, Ryan Parent, Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, Danny Syvret.
Top Prospects:
Patrick Maroon, LW, Adirondack (AHL)
Marc-Andre Bourdon, D, Adirondack (AHL)
Joonas Lehtivuori, D, Adirondack (AHL)
Jonathan Matsumoto, C, Adirondack (AHL)
Stefan Legein, RW, Adirondack (AHL)
Others of Interest: Brian Boucher, David Laliberte, Andreas Nodl, Jon Kalinski.
No-Trade Clauses: Daniel Briere, Simon Gagne, Scott Hartnell, Kimmo Timonen.
The Plan: There's not a lot of wiggle room for the Flyers, but they do seem to have the talent necessary to make up ground in the Eastern Conference and get into a solid playoff position. Maybe a depth defenceman would help, but the focal point for Philly is going to be goaltending, whether or not Ray Emery or, improbably, Michael Leighton can be the guy to take this team up against the other Cup contenders.
PITTSBURGH PENGUINS
UFA in 2010: Bill Guerin, Ruslan Fedotenko, Matt Cooke, Sergei Gonchar, Mark Eaton, Jay McKee, Martin Skoula, Brent Johnson.
RFA in 2010: Kristopher Letang, Ben Lovejoy.
Top Prospects:
Luca Caputi, LW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Eric Tangradi, LW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Simon Despres, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
Keven Veilleux, RW, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Brian Strait, D, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL)
Others of Interest: Dustin Jeffrey, Nick Johnson, Mark Letestu, Deryk Engelland.
No-Trade Clauses: Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik.
The Plan: Defending the Stanley Cup isn't easy and the Penguins are finding that out, with a midseason slump revealing some vulnerability that might not have been expected. There have also been numerous injuries to deal with and the Penguins can always use another scoring winger to complement their playmaking centres, but they have lots of talent in the organization to make such a deal if it's deemed necessary.
TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING
UFA in 2010: Alex Tanguay, Jeff Halpern, Stephane Veilleux, Brandon Bochenski, Zenon Konopka, David Hale, Kurtis Foster, Antero Niittymaki.
RFA in 2010: Steve Downie, Paul Szczechura, Paul Ranger, Mike Lundin.
Top Prospects:
Carter Ashton, RW, Brandon (WHL)
Richard Panik, C, Belleville (OHL)
Dustin Tokarski, G, Norfolk (AHL)
Blair Jones, C, Norfolk (AHL)
Alex Hutchings, LW, Barrie (OHL)
Others of Interest: Todd Fedoruk, Andrej Meszaros.
No-Trade Clauses: Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis.
The Plan: Within striking distance of a playoff spot, the Lightning have an intriguing mix of young and veteran talent and really need Alex Tanguay to elevate his production in order to give them to quality scoring lines to stay engaged in the playoff hunt. Otherwise, Tanguay figures to be expendable. Given the young talent on the roster, the Lightning won't sacrifice the future just to contend for a playoff spot, but the longer they stay in the playoff race, the less they could be involved as sellers.
TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS
UFA in 2010: Lee Stempniak, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Matt Stajan, Wayne Primeau, Jamal Mayers, Mike Van Ryn, Garnet Exelby, Vesa Toskala.
RFA in 2010: Nikolai Kulemin, John Mitchell, Ian White, Jonas Gustavsson.
Top Prospects:
Nazem Kadri, C, London (OHL)
Mikhail Stefanovich, RW, Quebec (QMJHL)
Jimmy Hayes, RW, Boston College (HE)
Christian Hanson, RW, Toronto (AHL)
Jerry D'Amigo, RW, R.P.I. (ECAC)
Others of Interest: Jason Blake, Tyler Bozak, Viktor Stalberg, Jeff Finger.
No-Trade Clauses: Niklas Hagman, Tomas Kaberle.
The Plan: With no picks in the first two rounds, the Maple Leafs will be interested in acquiring draft picks and prospects in any deals and have some pieces to offer contenders, though Tomas Kaberle is the only one that would figure to net a first round pick in return. Leafs GM Brian Burke seems anxious to get dealing, wondering why teams wait until right before the deadline to make moves. The Leafs do have some prospects on the way and could use the latter portion of the season to see what kind of future they might have with Tyler Bozak, Viktor Stalberg and Christian Hanson, but need to move out some veterans in order to create enough room in the lineup.
WASHINGTON CAPITALS
UFA in 2010: Brendan Morrison, Quintin Laing, Brian Pothier, Shaone Morrisonn, Jose Theodore.
RFA in 2010: Nicklas Backstrom, Eric Fehr, Boyd Bordon, Tomas Fleischmann, Jeff Schultz.
Top Prospects:
John Carlson, D, Hershey (AHL)
Marcus Johansson, C, Farjestads (SEL)
Mathieu Perreault, C, Hershey (AHL)
Francois Bouchard, RW, Hershey (AHL)
Oskar Osala, LW, Hershey (AHL)
Others of Interest: Karl Alzner, Michal Neuvirth, Anton Gustafsson.
No-Trade Clauses: Michael Nylander.
The Plan: The Caps could be Cup contenders if they shore up their defence and have a healthy Semyon Varlamov in goal. With the cap-saving trade of Chris Clark and Milan Jurcina to Columbus, as well as the waiving of Michael Nylander and his hefty contract, Washington has room to add salary. It might seem unnecessary, but the high-scoring Caps could get involved in Ilya Kovalchuk trade talks, yet moves to bolster the defence may be more cost-effective come playoff time. If a deal doesn't materialize to improve the defence, the Caps could look internally to youngsters John Carlson and Karl Alzner to provide a late-season boost.
NHL Deadline Moves?
The prospect of the Olympic roster freeze at midnight February 12th is expected to spark a trade or two before then; however multiple NHL sources describe the current state of trade discussions as 'very quiet.' That said the potential list of players available is growing on a daily basis. Here are the top 10 players expected to be dealt on, or before the March 3rd NHL trade deadline.
1) Ilya Kovalchuk
There is little to no doubt that due to impending unrestricted free agency that Atlanta's superstar and premier goal-scorer will be traded. However, Thrashers general manager Don Waddell says it's too early to officially open the bidding. When it does, Kovalchuk will be a much sought-after commodity.
2) Ray Whitney
Carolina's leading scorer is one of a number of prominent Hurricanes on the block. The 37-year old forward will draw interest based on his scoring touch and the fact he is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st.
3) Peter Mueller
The third-year Coyotes forward hasn't developed as expected after an excellent 54-point rookie season. Mueller's name has surfaced in trade talks, however Phoenix is asking for young talent in return.
4) Matt Stajan
Toronto's top-line centre will likely fit comfortably on most teams second or third lines and may fetch a decent prospect or draft picks in return.
5) Alexei Ponikarovsky
Similar to Stajan, the Maple Leafs value the solid 20-goal scorer, but the potential return on a trade may be too much to pass up.
6) Matt Cullen
In a market expected to pay a premium for centremen, the 33-year old Hurricane with proven offensive skills and a Stanley Cup on his resume will attract trade offers.
7) Lubomir Visnovsky
The 33-year old Oilers' defenceman has scored four of his nine goals on the powerplay. After earning $7 million this season, Visnovsky's contract drops each of the remaining three-years, which may attract suitors.
8) Sheldon Souray
The Oilers are aware of the veteran defenceman's willingness to consider any trade to a team included on his list. Even though Souray has yet to score a powerplay goal this season after scoring 12 last year, he is still regarded as an offensive threat.
9) Ethan Moreau
Edmonton's captain has been a good soldier for the Oilers, but he could be swept away by this teams insistence that a culture change is necessary. The fact Moreau's salary drops to $1.75 next season, the final year of his contract, will make him attractive.
10) Marty Turco
The future of Turco and a number of other Stars' players will be determined in the coming weeks. Dallas is looking for a clean start and may start by moving Turco to a team looking for depth in goal in the playoffs.
There appears to be more buyers than sellers as we creep closer to the deadline, however that could change over the next few weeks as teams get a final reading on their post-season chances.
1) Ilya Kovalchuk
There is little to no doubt that due to impending unrestricted free agency that Atlanta's superstar and premier goal-scorer will be traded. However, Thrashers general manager Don Waddell says it's too early to officially open the bidding. When it does, Kovalchuk will be a much sought-after commodity.
2) Ray Whitney
Carolina's leading scorer is one of a number of prominent Hurricanes on the block. The 37-year old forward will draw interest based on his scoring touch and the fact he is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st.
3) Peter Mueller
The third-year Coyotes forward hasn't developed as expected after an excellent 54-point rookie season. Mueller's name has surfaced in trade talks, however Phoenix is asking for young talent in return.
4) Matt Stajan
Toronto's top-line centre will likely fit comfortably on most teams second or third lines and may fetch a decent prospect or draft picks in return.
5) Alexei Ponikarovsky
Similar to Stajan, the Maple Leafs value the solid 20-goal scorer, but the potential return on a trade may be too much to pass up.
6) Matt Cullen
In a market expected to pay a premium for centremen, the 33-year old Hurricane with proven offensive skills and a Stanley Cup on his resume will attract trade offers.
7) Lubomir Visnovsky
The 33-year old Oilers' defenceman has scored four of his nine goals on the powerplay. After earning $7 million this season, Visnovsky's contract drops each of the remaining three-years, which may attract suitors.
8) Sheldon Souray
The Oilers are aware of the veteran defenceman's willingness to consider any trade to a team included on his list. Even though Souray has yet to score a powerplay goal this season after scoring 12 last year, he is still regarded as an offensive threat.
9) Ethan Moreau
Edmonton's captain has been a good soldier for the Oilers, but he could be swept away by this teams insistence that a culture change is necessary. The fact Moreau's salary drops to $1.75 next season, the final year of his contract, will make him attractive.
10) Marty Turco
The future of Turco and a number of other Stars' players will be determined in the coming weeks. Dallas is looking for a clean start and may start by moving Turco to a team looking for depth in goal in the playoffs.
There appears to be more buyers than sellers as we creep closer to the deadline, however that could change over the next few weeks as teams get a final reading on their post-season chances.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Coach Austin
Ole Miss sustained a blow with national signing day just around the corner with Cornell University’s reported hiring today of Rebels’ offensive coordinator Kent Austin as head coach.
Austin, a former Ole Miss quarterback from 1981-85, is replacing Jim Knowles, who left Cornell to become defensive coordinator at Duke under David Cutcliffe. The hiring was reported by the Elmira Star-Gazette and attributed to multiple sources close to the Cornell program. A source also confirmed the report to The Commercial Appeal.
In Austin's two years on the Ole Miss staff, the Rebels had one of the most prolific offenses in the SEC, with Jevan Snead at quarterback.
Austin had been a head coach in the Canadian Football League for Saskatchewan, where he was CFL Coach of the Year after guiding the Roughriders to the Grey Cup championship i 2007. He also won the Grey Cup in 1989 as Saskatchewan’s quarterback.
Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt has yet to comment on Austin’s departure.
Austin, a former Ole Miss quarterback from 1981-85, is replacing Jim Knowles, who left Cornell to become defensive coordinator at Duke under David Cutcliffe. The hiring was reported by the Elmira Star-Gazette and attributed to multiple sources close to the Cornell program. A source also confirmed the report to The Commercial Appeal.
In Austin's two years on the Ole Miss staff, the Rebels had one of the most prolific offenses in the SEC, with Jevan Snead at quarterback.
Austin had been a head coach in the Canadian Football League for Saskatchewan, where he was CFL Coach of the Year after guiding the Roughriders to the Grey Cup championship i 2007. He also won the Grey Cup in 1989 as Saskatchewan’s quarterback.
Ole Miss head coach Houston Nutt has yet to comment on Austin’s departure.
Icemaker Who Buried Lucky Loonie At 2002 games Accuses Mint Of Pushin Him Out
Ice maker Trent Evans touches the famous Canadian loonie that was buried under centre ice during the Salt Lake City Olympic games, in this March 8, 2002 file photo. The man who buried a lucky loonie in the ice during the 2002 Winter Olympics says his memory of the event and his Olympic spirit have been dampened since he was muscled out of the coin tradition by the Royal Canadian Mint.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn
VANCOUVER, B.C. - The man who buried a lucky loonie in the ice at the 2002 Winter Games - a loonie now enshrined at the Hockey Hall of Fame - says his memory of the event and his Olympic spirit have been dampened since he was muscled away from the coin tradition he created by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Canada's men's and women's teams struck gold at those Games, the first Olympic hockey gold for Canada in 50 years, and the lucky loonie became a part of Canadian folklore.
Trent Evans was working as an icemaker during the Salt Lake City Olympics when he first noticed the surface that would host the best hockey players in the world was missing a mark for the puck drop at centre ice.
Evans was advised to simply paint a splotch the size of a loonie but went one better, laying down a golden one-dollar coin that he himself pulled from the ice after Canada's men's hockey team claimed its first Olympic championship in five decades.
Evans handed the coin off to team director Wayne Gretzky and proudly watched as it was enshrined at the sport's hall of fame, but he says the lucky loonie experience has turned rather unlucky in recent years.
In fact, the Edmonton sales manager alleges that he's not only been denied proper compensation for coming up with the coin idea, but his appearances at lucky loonie events have essentially been phased out and his connection to the coin glossed over.
"Big brother, if you will, has kind of taken over the story and done with it what they want to do with it, without including the personal piece of the story, the guy," Evans said in an interview with The Canadian Press.
Evans, a married father of two, said his relationship with the Mint wasn't always so rocky.
Between 2002 and 2004, he was part of promotions involving the first silver edition lucky loonie and was given credit by the Mint for coming up with the idea.
"They had a fantastic promotion where my name and image was the lucky loonie," he said, adding that the coins sold well.
"I was never expecting to make a million dollars but the Mint was very fair with me."
But leading up to the 2006 Games, Evans said, his involvement with the lucky loonie campaign was greatly diminished. He attended one event in Ottawa and left it feeling as though he'd been cast aside.
When the Mint eventually offered Evans a new contract for his likeness that ran through the Vancouver Games, he consulted a lawyer. A number of changes were made to the deal, he said, but he said the Mint insisted it wouldn't pay more than $1,000 total.
What's more, Evans alleged, the Mint downplayed any connection he had to the lucky loonie, as exhibited in a letter he said he received from the facility last April.
"While we acknowledge the symbolism of the lucky loonie at the Salt Lake Olympics and Mr. Evans' contribution, we also recognize that the concept of luck and coins dates back to the very origins of coinage and the coinage system, long before the 2002 Winter Olympics," Evans quoted the letter as saying.
"With this is in mind, we do not believe that Mr. Evans has a unique claim on the idea of luck and coins."
Christine Aquino, a Mint spokeswoman, wouldn't say if Evans will be part of any future lucky loonie campaigns or if there was a falling out between the two parties.
The Mint plans to unveil its latest lucky loonie on Feb. 11, one day before the opening ceremonies in Vancouver. Ten million of the coins, which feature a design of the stone figure Inukshuk, will enter circulation and will be available at RBC branches.
When asked if an olive branch will be extended to Evans, Aquino would say only that plans for the coin's launch are still being finalized.
"The direction we've taken on the lucky loonie, and it's been evolving over the past few years, we've opened the concept of this coin up," she said. "It's about celebrating the Olympics that are finally here in Vancouver. We've been waiting several years for this moment."
When asked if contract negotiations between the two sides broke down, Aquino didn't directly answer the question.
"At the beginning, (the coin's design) was more of a narrow focus, I think. When 2002 was only just a couple years from that time, there was more of a hockey feel to it. Now it's more general. We've opened up the concept even more and we celebrate it with Canadians in general so that's the angle we've taken," she said.
Evans hardly sounds like a man who's waiting for his phone to ring and an invitation to show up.
He spoke proudly of helping work on a book about the lucky loonie that makes mention of his two sons but choked up when asked what his children think of the entire affair.
"They're careful about how they talk to me about it," he said. "It brings up emotion. In 2006, when I was thinking about it too much it was having an effect on me and I had to kind of drop it.
"This was never about Trent Evans getting rich. This is more about Trent Evans being able to know that my kids' kids will read the story about a loonie for luck some day . . . (and know) that I'm the guy."
Evans said he's consulted a lawyer about his legal options, but has been told the outlook isn't good and would prove expensive.
The Mint holds the trademark on the phrase "lucky loonie." The Vancouver Olympic organizing committee, or VANOC, also tried to trademark the phrase in March 2006, two years after the Mint, but withdrew that request a few months later.
Vancouver's Games venues feature no shortage of lucky coins themselves. Workers at the Richmond Oval dropped loonies into the facility's foundation as it was being constructed, while those at the curling venue did the same with toonies.
The 43-year-old Edmonton man launched what has become a true Canadian Olympic tradition.
"I would say that I'm still very glad I did what I did. I mean, one of the most special things that I can always brag about is this will always go down as a Canadian story," Evans said.
"Nobody can ever take that away from me."
VANCOUVER, B.C. - The man who buried a lucky loonie in the ice at the 2002 Winter Games - a loonie now enshrined at the Hockey Hall of Fame - says his memory of the event and his Olympic spirit have been dampened since he was muscled away from the coin tradition he created by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Canada's men's and women's teams struck gold at those Games, the first Olympic hockey gold for Canada in 50 years, and the lucky loonie became a part of Canadian folklore.
Trent Evans was working as an icemaker during the Salt Lake City Olympics when he first noticed the surface that would host the best hockey players in the world was missing a mark for the puck drop at centre ice.
Evans was advised to simply paint a splotch the size of a loonie but went one better, laying down a golden one-dollar coin that he himself pulled from the ice after Canada's men's hockey team claimed its first Olympic championship in five decades.
Evans handed the coin off to team director Wayne Gretzky and proudly watched as it was enshrined at the sport's hall of fame, but he says the lucky loonie experience has turned rather unlucky in recent years.
In fact, the Edmonton sales manager alleges that he's not only been denied proper compensation for coming up with the coin idea, but his appearances at lucky loonie events have essentially been phased out and his connection to the coin glossed over.
"Big brother, if you will, has kind of taken over the story and done with it what they want to do with it, without including the personal piece of the story, the guy," Evans said in an interview with The Canadian Press.
Evans, a married father of two, said his relationship with the Mint wasn't always so rocky.
Between 2002 and 2004, he was part of promotions involving the first silver edition lucky loonie and was given credit by the Mint for coming up with the idea.
"They had a fantastic promotion where my name and image was the lucky loonie," he said, adding that the coins sold well.
"I was never expecting to make a million dollars but the Mint was very fair with me."
But leading up to the 2006 Games, Evans said, his involvement with the lucky loonie campaign was greatly diminished. He attended one event in Ottawa and left it feeling as though he'd been cast aside.
When the Mint eventually offered Evans a new contract for his likeness that ran through the Vancouver Games, he consulted a lawyer. A number of changes were made to the deal, he said, but he said the Mint insisted it wouldn't pay more than $1,000 total.
What's more, Evans alleged, the Mint downplayed any connection he had to the lucky loonie, as exhibited in a letter he said he received from the facility last April.
"While we acknowledge the symbolism of the lucky loonie at the Salt Lake Olympics and Mr. Evans' contribution, we also recognize that the concept of luck and coins dates back to the very origins of coinage and the coinage system, long before the 2002 Winter Olympics," Evans quoted the letter as saying.
"With this is in mind, we do not believe that Mr. Evans has a unique claim on the idea of luck and coins."
Christine Aquino, a Mint spokeswoman, wouldn't say if Evans will be part of any future lucky loonie campaigns or if there was a falling out between the two parties.
The Mint plans to unveil its latest lucky loonie on Feb. 11, one day before the opening ceremonies in Vancouver. Ten million of the coins, which feature a design of the stone figure Inukshuk, will enter circulation and will be available at RBC branches.
When asked if an olive branch will be extended to Evans, Aquino would say only that plans for the coin's launch are still being finalized.
"The direction we've taken on the lucky loonie, and it's been evolving over the past few years, we've opened the concept of this coin up," she said. "It's about celebrating the Olympics that are finally here in Vancouver. We've been waiting several years for this moment."
When asked if contract negotiations between the two sides broke down, Aquino didn't directly answer the question.
"At the beginning, (the coin's design) was more of a narrow focus, I think. When 2002 was only just a couple years from that time, there was more of a hockey feel to it. Now it's more general. We've opened up the concept even more and we celebrate it with Canadians in general so that's the angle we've taken," she said.
Evans hardly sounds like a man who's waiting for his phone to ring and an invitation to show up.
He spoke proudly of helping work on a book about the lucky loonie that makes mention of his two sons but choked up when asked what his children think of the entire affair.
"They're careful about how they talk to me about it," he said. "It brings up emotion. In 2006, when I was thinking about it too much it was having an effect on me and I had to kind of drop it.
"This was never about Trent Evans getting rich. This is more about Trent Evans being able to know that my kids' kids will read the story about a loonie for luck some day . . . (and know) that I'm the guy."
Evans said he's consulted a lawyer about his legal options, but has been told the outlook isn't good and would prove expensive.
The Mint holds the trademark on the phrase "lucky loonie." The Vancouver Olympic organizing committee, or VANOC, also tried to trademark the phrase in March 2006, two years after the Mint, but withdrew that request a few months later.
Vancouver's Games venues feature no shortage of lucky coins themselves. Workers at the Richmond Oval dropped loonies into the facility's foundation as it was being constructed, while those at the curling venue did the same with toonies.
The 43-year-old Edmonton man launched what has become a true Canadian Olympic tradition.
"I would say that I'm still very glad I did what I did. I mean, one of the most special things that I can always brag about is this will always go down as a Canadian story," Evans said.
"Nobody can ever take that away from me."
Danton To Play First Game
HALIFAX -- Mike Danton will make his university hockey debut on Wednesday night when the Saint Mary's Huskies host the Acadia Axemen.
Saint Mary's athletic director Steve Sarty confirms the 29-year-old ex-NHLer will suit up for the game at the Halifax Forum.
Danton's arrival on campus a couple of weeks ago, after his release from prison following a conviction in a murder-for-hire plot, has generated a lot of debate about the university game.
In a media briefing last week, Danton said he wanted to focus on his studies and also get back to the game he loves.
There's talk coach Trevor Stienburg may put him in Saint Mary's second line with a couple of high-scoring wingers.
Saint Mary's and Acadia are duking it out for second place in the Atlantic conference and a quarter-final bye in the playoffs.
I Fully Respect The Decision
Patrice Cormier is going to accept his punishment from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
The Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward had the option to appeal a season-long suspension for his hit on Quebec Remparts defenceman Mikael Tam, but indicated in a statement Tuesday that he will serve the ban.
"I fully respect the Quebec Major Junior League's decision regarding the Mikael Tam incident," Cormier said in a statement released by Halifax-based agent Tim Cranston. "I deeply regret the circumstances surrounding this event and wish Mikael Tam a speedy and full recovery."
The 19-year-old New Jersey Devils prospect, scheduled to hold a press conference today at 5:30pm et, will sit out the rest of the regular season and playoffs. He had a five-day window to appeal the suspension.
Video of the ugly Jan. 17 incident has been replayed several times over the past week. On the play, Cormier came off his team's bench and caught Tam with an elbow in the neutral zone, sending the Quebec defenceman into convulsions.
Tam spent two days in hospital with head trauma before returning to Quebec City last week.
Whatcha You Talking About Willis
Actor Gary Coleman found himself in handcuffs this weekend, as he was arrested for domestic violence in Utah, several media outlets have confirmed. TMZ reports that Coleman was apprehended in Santaquin, UT, on an outstanding warrant, and that the victim hasn't been identified. RadarOnline reports that as of late Sunday night, Coleman was still in the Utah County Jail and had not posted his $1,725 bail.
Coleman's wife, Shannon Price, was arrested last year on domestic violence charges as well. The couple married in 2007, and have been making headlines ever since with public spats. Still, there's no confirmation that Price was the victim of Coleman's alleged violence.
Weeks ago, Coleman was rushed to the hospital after reportedly suffering a seizure. Thankfully, he was released shortly after checking into the hospital
2 IN 3 Canadians Believe Hit To The Head Are Premeditated
Most Canadians believe that violent hits to the head are not only avoidable in hockey, they are usually premeditated, according to the results of a Canadian Press/Harris Decima survey.
The sentiment is strongest in Quebec, where 80 per cent of respondents said they felt head shots are unnecessary in the wake of Patrice Cormier's vicious elbow to an opponent's head. The Rouyn-Noranda forward, who was also Canada's captain at the world junior tournament, was suspended Monday for the remainder of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League season for sending Mikael Tam into convulsions with an elbow during a game earlier this month.
It was the latest in a string of high-profile hits to the head. The highlights have been splashed over the airwaves in Canada, where only 26 per cent of those who responded to the survey believe head shots are an unavoidable part of the game.
Even among the most avid fans, 57 per cent said head shots are unnecessary and often malicious.
"I would have expected that hockey fans -- those people who are the most avid hockey fans -- would have been more evenly split on the issue," Harris Decima senior vice-president Doug Anderson said. "It certainly made me feel like there's really not an attitude out there that is going to pitch hard against tighter restrictions on head shots, for example."
Cormier's suspension was lauded in several corners of the National Hockey League on Monday. The ruling came days after Windsor Spitfires forward Zack Kassian was handed a 20-game suspension for a vicious hit to the head of Barrie Colts forward Matt Kennedy.
"Give me hard hockey, give me tough hockey, and people will still get hurt because that's the nature of the game," Edmonton Oilers coach Pat Quinn said Monday. "But don't give us the head-hunters. That's no good."
Televised replays of the Cormier hit have been as hard to avoid as they have been to stomach.
"It makes you sick," Leafs defenceman Garnet Exelby said. "You don't want to see guys get hurt in this sport. I'm definitely a guy who plays a physical game, and I don't want people to like playing against me. I want them to be a little uneasy when I'm out there. But at the same time, I don't think you need to play dirty."
Data for the survey was collected between Jan. 21 and Jan. 24, compiled from interviews with more than 1,000 Canadians, with a margin of error of 3.1 per cent 19 times out of 20. Cormier elbowed Tam on Jan. 17, sending the Quebec Remparts defenceman into convulsions on the ice.
"I saw that hit and, I mean, it was pretty vicious," Leafs coach Ron Wilson said. "He came off the bench almost predatorally and went for the head with his elbow. I think they're sending a message and, hopefully, players in our league learn."
Anderson said the intensity of the coverage in Quebec has contributed to the stronger feelings against head shots.
"It seems to me that, with every subsequent story, the pressure seems to get heightened," Anderson said. "The way stories are written, the way the public digests information about it, is going to be more and more towards saying, 'This has got to be stopped."'
He also suggested that, if the punishment meted out in cases such as Cormier's and Kassian's work to reduce the number of head shots in the game, the level of public concern will drop alongside.
"I heard a psychiatrist in an interview a couple of weeks ago about post-traumatic stress disorder, and about how some people expose themselves to something more than once -- like watching the towers fall in New York City and things like that," Anderson said. "And that can sometimes exacerbate the sense of how often this kind of thing is occurring. And when it doesn't occur in a while, it becomes less prominent in peoples' minds, less of a worry.
"And I wonder whether something like that occurs with these issues."
The sentiment is strongest in Quebec, where 80 per cent of respondents said they felt head shots are unnecessary in the wake of Patrice Cormier's vicious elbow to an opponent's head. The Rouyn-Noranda forward, who was also Canada's captain at the world junior tournament, was suspended Monday for the remainder of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League season for sending Mikael Tam into convulsions with an elbow during a game earlier this month.
It was the latest in a string of high-profile hits to the head. The highlights have been splashed over the airwaves in Canada, where only 26 per cent of those who responded to the survey believe head shots are an unavoidable part of the game.
Even among the most avid fans, 57 per cent said head shots are unnecessary and often malicious.
"I would have expected that hockey fans -- those people who are the most avid hockey fans -- would have been more evenly split on the issue," Harris Decima senior vice-president Doug Anderson said. "It certainly made me feel like there's really not an attitude out there that is going to pitch hard against tighter restrictions on head shots, for example."
Cormier's suspension was lauded in several corners of the National Hockey League on Monday. The ruling came days after Windsor Spitfires forward Zack Kassian was handed a 20-game suspension for a vicious hit to the head of Barrie Colts forward Matt Kennedy.
"Give me hard hockey, give me tough hockey, and people will still get hurt because that's the nature of the game," Edmonton Oilers coach Pat Quinn said Monday. "But don't give us the head-hunters. That's no good."
Televised replays of the Cormier hit have been as hard to avoid as they have been to stomach.
"It makes you sick," Leafs defenceman Garnet Exelby said. "You don't want to see guys get hurt in this sport. I'm definitely a guy who plays a physical game, and I don't want people to like playing against me. I want them to be a little uneasy when I'm out there. But at the same time, I don't think you need to play dirty."
Data for the survey was collected between Jan. 21 and Jan. 24, compiled from interviews with more than 1,000 Canadians, with a margin of error of 3.1 per cent 19 times out of 20. Cormier elbowed Tam on Jan. 17, sending the Quebec Remparts defenceman into convulsions on the ice.
"I saw that hit and, I mean, it was pretty vicious," Leafs coach Ron Wilson said. "He came off the bench almost predatorally and went for the head with his elbow. I think they're sending a message and, hopefully, players in our league learn."
Anderson said the intensity of the coverage in Quebec has contributed to the stronger feelings against head shots.
"It seems to me that, with every subsequent story, the pressure seems to get heightened," Anderson said. "The way stories are written, the way the public digests information about it, is going to be more and more towards saying, 'This has got to be stopped."'
He also suggested that, if the punishment meted out in cases such as Cormier's and Kassian's work to reduce the number of head shots in the game, the level of public concern will drop alongside.
"I heard a psychiatrist in an interview a couple of weeks ago about post-traumatic stress disorder, and about how some people expose themselves to something more than once -- like watching the towers fall in New York City and things like that," Anderson said. "And that can sometimes exacerbate the sense of how often this kind of thing is occurring. And when it doesn't occur in a while, it becomes less prominent in peoples' minds, less of a worry.
"And I wonder whether something like that occurs with these issues."
Pats Talk
Friday, January 22nd Regina Pats 6 Swift Current Broncos 5 SO
The Pats overcame multiple deficits to come out with a 6-5 shoot-out win. Five Pats players had multiple point nights with Matt Strueby leading the way with 3 assists. In the shoot out, both Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal scored while Damien Ketlo stopped Brad Hoban and Cody Eakin to seal the win.
Saturday, January 23rd Regina Pats 5 Swift Current Broncos 2
The Regina Pats won both ends of a home and home series with the Swift Current Broncos with a 5-2 victory at the Swift Current Credit Union I-Plex. The Pats had a 2-0 lead after the first on goals by Matt Strueby and Brett Leffler. The Broncos cut the lead to 2-1 after 2 periods when the fun began. There was a blackout during the second intermission that delayed the game for over an hour. The final period was played in front of only a handful of fans. The saw the Pats score three times en rout to a 5-2 win.
Damien Ketlo was fantastic stopping 34 of 36 Bronco shots for his 15th win of the season
Injury Report:
Injuries: None to Report
Games lost due to injury – 72
Just the Facts:
Defensive Scoring:
The Pats have three defencemen in the team's top ten scorers. Colten Teubert leads with 31 points; Brandon Davidson has 28 while Cody Carlson is right behind them with 24.
Top 5 Scorers:
Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal are in the top 5 of WHL scorers. Eberle is currently 3rd with 72 points, but has played 15 less games than the leaders, while Jordan Weal is in a tie for 4th with 69.
Mid-Term Rankings:
The NHL CSS mid-term draft rankings were released earlier this week, and the Pats are represented with a pair of players. Jordan Weal is 45 in North American skaters, while Brandon Davidson continues to move up the rankings, he is now 57th. Jordan Weal will play in the CHL Top Prospects game January 19th and 20th in Windsor.
They are all big games:
With the Pats in full chase mode in the Eastern Conference playoff race, every game is important from here on in.
Here's how the rest of the schedule breaks down: 22 games (11 home/11 away), 21 v/ Eastern Conference, 12 East Division, 2 B.C. Division. So far in the month of January, the Pats have started to slowly turn things around with a 5-1-0-1 mark.
January has been a big month:
After going 1-10 in December, the Pats have turned things around in January, heading into this week, the Pats are 6-1-0-1.
Trans Canada Clash:
This weekend is all set to go for the Trans Canada Clash. The Pats and Warriors will kick things off with the game Friday night, with Saturday being the big day.
At 1:30 the Pats Alumni will take on the Warriors Alumni in the 3rd annual Trans-Canada Clash, with the Pats facing the Warriors at 7pm. Both games will be at the Moose Jaw Civic Centre.
Streaking:
*Garrett Mitchell has points in 10 of the last 11 games.
*Jordan Eberle is on a 6 game point streak (6g 6a)
*Jordan Weal is on a 6 game points streak (5g 8a) and picked up his 140th point in Swift Current Saturday night.
*Matt Strueby has points in 5 of his last 6 games (2g 5a).
MAKE-UP GAME DATE:
The Regina Pats and Kootenay Ice have agreed on a make-up date for their game that was originally scheduled for Sunday, January 24th at 6pm which was postponed because of bad weather and poor driving conditions.
The two teams will play the rescheduled game on Monday, February 1st, 2010 at 7pm at the Brandt Centre.
All tickets purchased for the postponed game on the 24th will be valid for the make-up game
The Pats overcame multiple deficits to come out with a 6-5 shoot-out win. Five Pats players had multiple point nights with Matt Strueby leading the way with 3 assists. In the shoot out, both Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal scored while Damien Ketlo stopped Brad Hoban and Cody Eakin to seal the win.
Saturday, January 23rd Regina Pats 5 Swift Current Broncos 2
The Regina Pats won both ends of a home and home series with the Swift Current Broncos with a 5-2 victory at the Swift Current Credit Union I-Plex. The Pats had a 2-0 lead after the first on goals by Matt Strueby and Brett Leffler. The Broncos cut the lead to 2-1 after 2 periods when the fun began. There was a blackout during the second intermission that delayed the game for over an hour. The final period was played in front of only a handful of fans. The saw the Pats score three times en rout to a 5-2 win.
Damien Ketlo was fantastic stopping 34 of 36 Bronco shots for his 15th win of the season
Injury Report:
Injuries: None to Report
Games lost due to injury – 72
Just the Facts:
Defensive Scoring:
The Pats have three defencemen in the team's top ten scorers. Colten Teubert leads with 31 points; Brandon Davidson has 28 while Cody Carlson is right behind them with 24.
Top 5 Scorers:
Jordan Eberle and Jordan Weal are in the top 5 of WHL scorers. Eberle is currently 3rd with 72 points, but has played 15 less games than the leaders, while Jordan Weal is in a tie for 4th with 69.
Mid-Term Rankings:
The NHL CSS mid-term draft rankings were released earlier this week, and the Pats are represented with a pair of players. Jordan Weal is 45 in North American skaters, while Brandon Davidson continues to move up the rankings, he is now 57th. Jordan Weal will play in the CHL Top Prospects game January 19th and 20th in Windsor.
They are all big games:
With the Pats in full chase mode in the Eastern Conference playoff race, every game is important from here on in.
Here's how the rest of the schedule breaks down: 22 games (11 home/11 away), 21 v/ Eastern Conference, 12 East Division, 2 B.C. Division. So far in the month of January, the Pats have started to slowly turn things around with a 5-1-0-1 mark.
January has been a big month:
After going 1-10 in December, the Pats have turned things around in January, heading into this week, the Pats are 6-1-0-1.
Trans Canada Clash:
This weekend is all set to go for the Trans Canada Clash. The Pats and Warriors will kick things off with the game Friday night, with Saturday being the big day.
At 1:30 the Pats Alumni will take on the Warriors Alumni in the 3rd annual Trans-Canada Clash, with the Pats facing the Warriors at 7pm. Both games will be at the Moose Jaw Civic Centre.
Streaking:
*Garrett Mitchell has points in 10 of the last 11 games.
*Jordan Eberle is on a 6 game point streak (6g 6a)
*Jordan Weal is on a 6 game points streak (5g 8a) and picked up his 140th point in Swift Current Saturday night.
*Matt Strueby has points in 5 of his last 6 games (2g 5a).
MAKE-UP GAME DATE:
The Regina Pats and Kootenay Ice have agreed on a make-up date for their game that was originally scheduled for Sunday, January 24th at 6pm which was postponed because of bad weather and poor driving conditions.
The two teams will play the rescheduled game on Monday, February 1st, 2010 at 7pm at the Brandt Centre.
All tickets purchased for the postponed game on the 24th will be valid for the make-up game
Jamie Heward
Former Regina Pat and Penguin, Maple Leaf, Lightning, Capital, King, Predator, Islander and Blue Jacket stopped by Monday night's show to promote Saturday's TransCanada Clash between Pats and Warriors Alumni. Faceoff is at 1:30 in the Civic Centre. Tickets are available Former Regina Pat Jamie Heward was on the show as well. He says he and buddy Mike Sillinger are basically waiting on the Parkers to decide when they want to sell the Regina Pats franchise.
Heward says their ownership group approached Brent Parker five or six years ago about the prospect of owning the club, and that's the only time it's been mentioned. He says he's been with or around Brent Parker hundreds of times since, and the topic has never came up again.
So, Heward says, they are simply waiting patiently. However he and Sillinger are eager to be involved with the Regina Pats in a significant way down the road
Heward says their ownership group approached Brent Parker five or six years ago about the prospect of owning the club, and that's the only time it's been mentioned. He says he's been with or around Brent Parker hundreds of times since, and the topic has never came up again.
So, Heward says, they are simply waiting patiently. However he and Sillinger are eager to be involved with the Regina Pats in a significant way down the road
Womack Offered New Role
New Roughriders General Manager Brendan Taman was on Sportsline last night and revealed the club has made its offer to Joe Womack to stay with the team. Womack has spent the past three seasons with the Green & White in various roles including head scout, safeties coach and strength coach. Here's what Brendan had to say:
BT: "Joe was very disappointed he didn't get the G.M. job so after the announcement we had a long meeting. Afterwards we offered Joe a position within the organization and it's different from what he had. He won't be coaching anymore. His forte will be working for us a director of U.S. scouting, based out of the U.S.
"He's going to take some time to think about it, and whether or not it's something he wants to pursue. If there are other things out there, I'd be happy to help him in any way I can. But we've offered for him to stay with us, and I think he'd benefit from it. "
RP: Is the timeframe on the decision his or yours?
BT: "To be fair to Joe, and he's done so much work here, he can work on his timetable. If it's 2 weeks or 3 weeks, it's his job to take if he wants it. Having said that, we want to bring sombody else in.
"I've talked to Kenny and we want to have a progression plan in place in the organization. That means if I leave in two years, we'd like to have a G.M. in place to take it. Or if Kenny leaves, we'd like to have an assistant coach ready to take over. And from the management side, I'd like to have a guy here in Regina like an assistant G.M. and Joe in the States. With that, I think we'd have a pretty good organization. "
BT: "Joe was very disappointed he didn't get the G.M. job so after the announcement we had a long meeting. Afterwards we offered Joe a position within the organization and it's different from what he had. He won't be coaching anymore. His forte will be working for us a director of U.S. scouting, based out of the U.S.
"He's going to take some time to think about it, and whether or not it's something he wants to pursue. If there are other things out there, I'd be happy to help him in any way I can. But we've offered for him to stay with us, and I think he'd benefit from it. "
RP: Is the timeframe on the decision his or yours?
BT: "To be fair to Joe, and he's done so much work here, he can work on his timetable. If it's 2 weeks or 3 weeks, it's his job to take if he wants it. Having said that, we want to bring sombody else in.
"I've talked to Kenny and we want to have a progression plan in place in the organization. That means if I leave in two years, we'd like to have a G.M. in place to take it. Or if Kenny leaves, we'd like to have an assistant coach ready to take over. And from the management side, I'd like to have a guy here in Regina like an assistant G.M. and Joe in the States. With that, I think we'd have a pretty good organization. "
Monday, January 25, 2010
The 20 Greatest Frontman In Rock
What is it that makes a man a great rock frontman? A rare mixture of style, swagger and charisma – and having the vocal chops to back it all up certainly doesn't hurt, either. But this isn't a list of the greatest singers of all time here – and things like No. 1 hits or platinum album sales don't even factor. Instead, let's look at those male vocalists who just exude cool every time they take the stage and see if it is possible to pinpoint what sets them apart from the also-rans.
20. Robert Plant
If there were a class offered on how to act like the quintessential rock frontman, the Led Zeppelin frontman would lead the syllabus. It's more than just his mystical lyrics or his phenomenal vocal range that sets Plant apart. There's the way he strolls onto a stage and all eyes are suddenly on him. Maybe it's due to the bravado with which he conducts himself, or maybe it has something to do with those ladykiller good looks that he brought to the table in an age when most vocalists looked more like ill-kempt hippies than dashing leading men.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. Ted Nugent
The Motor City Madman exudes a level of self-possessed confidence that many pol
iticians could learn from. Maybe it has something to do with the way he always speaks his mind, regardless of how controversial -- or maybe it's the manner in which he led a straight-edge lifestyle before straight-edge was cool. More than likely, though, it has everything to do with the nearly manic levels of energy the Nuge brings to the stage. And, well, topping the whole thing off by shooting a flaming arrow through his guitar pretty much cinches his spot on this list.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. Rob Zombie
Rob Zombie is most assuredly a student of the other greats that grace this list, a
nd his dedication and studiousness shows through. Back in the days of White Zombie, he managed to carve out a respectable niche for himself, but it wasn't until he broke out on his own that he began to come into his own as an all-around showman. Expertly mixing various elements of creepiness and cool like a mad scientist, Zombie has found the correct formula to steal the show, and his shows have more in common with a trip to the carnival than a traditional rock concert.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. Bono
It is hard to find anyone in music who has so seamle
ssly adapted to the changing face of the industry as well as U2's leader. In the angst-ridden early '80s, Bono was the dangerous, edgy revolutionary. By the end of that corporate-controlled decade, he had taken up the mantle of the soulful rocker. In the '90s, he morphed into the cool hipster with a conscience. And in the '00s he became a child of the times with a sociopolitical agenda. Bono has managed to not only himself not only vital, but stayed out on the bleeding edge of what it is to be a great frontman.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. Robert Smith
Robert Smith proved with the Cure that not only do boys cry, but they can be amazingly cool while doing so. In many ways, Smith is the
father of both emo and goth: Wild hair, smudged makeup and emotionally poignant lyrics caught people's attention when the Cure hit big in the '80s, but it was sustained by Smith's semi-vulnerable approachability and almost otherworldliness. And while he might not be as high-energy as some, or have the showmanship chops of others, his ability to connect with his audience on some deep, resonating level keeps all eyes glued on him anytime he takes the stage.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. Marilyn Manson
For some its manic energy, for others it is animal magnetism, but for Marilyn Manson it is all about the spectacle. In so
me ways, Manson is akin to a car wreck: Even when we don't necessarily want to, we just can't help but crane our necks and look – hoping to catch sight of something disturbing. But if Manson's appeal began and ended with shock value, he would have been little more than a flash in the pan. Instead, he has managed to refine the art of the grotesque into a thing of mesmerizing beauty.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. David Bowie
For some it i
s all about raw, visceral appeal or unabashed sexuality. For Bowie, it's more about the subtle androgynous beauty and unearthliness that he wears like a second skin. From his two-toned eyes to his melodically crooning voice, everything about him seems to have an ethereal quality to it. Perhaps it is fed by humanity's general curiosity of the "other" – those not quite like us. And perhaps Bowie is savvy enough to play upon this, crafting the alternate persona of Ziggy Stardust for himself and letting his music often slip toward the supernatural.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Bruce Springsteen
When it comes to raw charisma, it would be difficult to find someone who possesses a greater share of it than Spr
ingsteen. While not as classically pretty as some of the frontmen on this list, the Boss has a mixture of sentimentality and rough-edged charm that makes him stand head and shoulders above most who pick up the microphone. That, coupled with his gravelly, crooning speak-easy voice, has caused more than a few women's hearts to skip a beat when he presents one of his marathon live shows.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Bruce Dickinson
The term "Renaissance man" seems to particularly apply to Iron Maiden's front
man. Not only is he the gifted singer from one of the most recognized bands in the world, but also he is also a world-class fencer who helps to train the English Olympic team and a licensed pilot who flies the band around on its own 747. This rounding seems to come through in the swagger and showmanship that Dickinson brings to the stage.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Steven Tyler
Many of the older musicians on this list have had to
dial back their performances as time and trial take their toll. Not so with Tyler. Even with a 30-plus year career with Aerosmith to his credit, it doesn't seem like he has backed off the throttle one iota. He can still bring the fans to their feet and whip them into a frenzy with an upbeat song, or bring tears to their eyes with a heartfelt ballad. And all the while, he looks good doing it with his outlandish costuming and raw sex appeal, which has not eroded throughout the decades.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Alice Cooper
When you look at Alice Cooper, it isn't hard to see that a very vital part of being one of the great frontmen of all time is theatrics. Cooper seems t
o understand better than most that rock is part of show business, and he makes sure that his is a show worth seeing. Over the years, others such as Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson have studied at the feet of this master, who has thrilled and delighted with his macabre stage performances for years. Cooper's black humor and elaborate staging never fail to keep the audience captivated.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Jim Morrison
The Doors frontman was the prototype for the modern bad-boy rocker. But for Morrison it was more than just some
affected act. He seemed to be indelibly linked to his music, and onstage his songs practically poured out of his very soul, washing over the audience like an unstoppable tide. The Lizard King didn't have the most versatile voice, but when he sang it was like crushed velvet running through your brain, and that was more than enough. Add to that the dark, angst-ridden poet persona he exuded, and it isn't hard to see why he has become an archetype.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Iggy Pop
Onstage, Iggy
Pop is a madman whose intensity is off the charts. Iggy is the living personification of the sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll lifestyle -- and it's clear that it isn't just an act or a show or a persona. This is the life that he lives and breathes, and it is that honesty and genuine lust for life that truly resonates with his audiences. He seems more like a force of nature than merely a man when he is up there belting out songs in his brusque baritone. Iggy Pop is a man who lives and bleeds rock n' roll.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Ozzy Osbourne
The father of heavy metal, Ozzy has been up and down the road, seen it all and done it all -- twice. First as the frontman of Black Sabbath and then
branching out on his own, the "Blizzard of Oz" never disappoints. Ozzy is a wildman who isn't above biting the heads off of bats or doves to wow his audiences – not that he would need to. There is a charisma that Ozzy just naturally exudes when he takes the stage. Maybe it is the realization that you are in the presence of one of the great ones. Whatever it is, even after all these years, Ozzy can still steal a show like no one else.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Gene Simmons
We've talked
about Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper in terms of the showmanship and spectacle. But when it comes to honing the art of bringing theater to rock, no one holds a candle to Gene Simmons. Whether it is coughing up a stream of blood, blowing a towering gout of fire into the air or simply gesticulating his abnormally long and seemingly prehensile tongue at the adoring ladies in the front row, he is a showman first and foremost. And from the success that Kiss have enjoyed in the past 35 years, there is little doubt that this is exactly what people want.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Axl Rose
Axl Rose has attained an almost mythical status -- and not only for his onstage presence. Rose is a lightning rod for controversy, be it punching an unruly reporter or taking 14 year
s and $12 million to make an album. Despite all that, when he is on his game, there is no one better. Barely contained intensity mixes with manic energy to make him an attention magnet. And even with the depth of talent that the other members of Guns N' Roses possessed, it was impossible to keep from watching Axl as he rushed across teh stage, belting out notes that could shatter glass or bloody eardrums.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. David Lee Roth
Whether you l
ove him or you hate him, there is no question that Diamond Dave is one of the greatest rock n' roll frontmen of all time. His over-the-top personality, his flamboyance on and off the stage, his style, his swagger -- there is no question that Roth lives the rock n' roll lifestyle and he lives it hard. The former Van Halen frontman wears animal sexuality like some men wear cologne, and not only does he have all the ladies swooning onstage -- he had the guys getting into it and rocking out as well.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Mick Jagger
In many ways, the Rolling Stones serve as a model for any rock n' roll band that has come since -- and without question, Mick Jagger has served as very direct inspiration as to what
a great frontman should be. Once Jagger hit the scene, it was no longer enough to just be a talented singer with solid vocal chops. He served as a wake-up call for frontmen everywhere that they now had to be showmen as well – larger than life. Jagger has the energy, the emotion and, most important, the talent to round out the whole package. He has brought an attitude and a swagger that is second to none.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Freddie Mercury
Mercury could
bring a crowd to life like no other. With his refined, theatrical style, the king of Queen had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand each and every time he took the stage. He could rouse them into singing along with him note for note, or could call for a hush with the smallest gesture of his hand. This spellbinding relationship between a frontman and their audience is something that few other performers have been able to duplicate before or since, and is a testament to the charisma that Mercury possessed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elvis Presley
"Nothing really affected me until I heard Elvis. If there hadn't been an Elvis, there wouldn't have been a Beatles. --John Lennon
To be honest, if there had been no Elvis, the rest of this list would not exist. He could touch the hearts of his audience like no one else. His music could bring tears to the eye, and the crook of his lip or the sway of his hips would send the girls swooning. He had a way about him that made each person in the audience feel like he was singing just to him or her and that there was no one else around
I do agree with all the 20 names on the list I might have put a few of them in a different spot. But I will go withit because unlike some other blogs not naming names (Mitchell Blair) I don't think I know everything.
20. Robert Plant
If there were a class offered on how to act like the quintessential rock frontman, the Led Zeppelin frontman would lead the syllabus. It's more than just his mystical lyrics or his phenomenal vocal range that sets Plant apart. There's the way he strolls onto a stage and all eyes are suddenly on him. Maybe it's due to the bravado with which he conducts himself, or maybe it has something to do with those ladykiller good looks that he brought to the table in an age when most vocalists looked more like ill-kempt hippies than dashing leading men.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. Ted Nugent
The Motor City Madman exudes a level of self-possessed confidence that many pol
iticians could learn from. Maybe it has something to do with the way he always speaks his mind, regardless of how controversial -- or maybe it's the manner in which he led a straight-edge lifestyle before straight-edge was cool. More than likely, though, it has everything to do with the nearly manic levels of energy the Nuge brings to the stage. And, well, topping the whole thing off by shooting a flaming arrow through his guitar pretty much cinches his spot on this list.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. Rob Zombie
Rob Zombie is most assuredly a student of the other greats that grace this list, a
nd his dedication and studiousness shows through. Back in the days of White Zombie, he managed to carve out a respectable niche for himself, but it wasn't until he broke out on his own that he began to come into his own as an all-around showman. Expertly mixing various elements of creepiness and cool like a mad scientist, Zombie has found the correct formula to steal the show, and his shows have more in common with a trip to the carnival than a traditional rock concert.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. Bono
It is hard to find anyone in music who has so seamle
ssly adapted to the changing face of the industry as well as U2's leader. In the angst-ridden early '80s, Bono was the dangerous, edgy revolutionary. By the end of that corporate-controlled decade, he had taken up the mantle of the soulful rocker. In the '90s, he morphed into the cool hipster with a conscience. And in the '00s he became a child of the times with a sociopolitical agenda. Bono has managed to not only himself not only vital, but stayed out on the bleeding edge of what it is to be a great frontman.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. Robert Smith
Robert Smith proved with the Cure that not only do boys cry, but they can be amazingly cool while doing so. In many ways, Smith is the
father of both emo and goth: Wild hair, smudged makeup and emotionally poignant lyrics caught people's attention when the Cure hit big in the '80s, but it was sustained by Smith's semi-vulnerable approachability and almost otherworldliness. And while he might not be as high-energy as some, or have the showmanship chops of others, his ability to connect with his audience on some deep, resonating level keeps all eyes glued on him anytime he takes the stage.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. Marilyn Manson
For some its manic energy, for others it is animal magnetism, but for Marilyn Manson it is all about the spectacle. In so
me ways, Manson is akin to a car wreck: Even when we don't necessarily want to, we just can't help but crane our necks and look – hoping to catch sight of something disturbing. But if Manson's appeal began and ended with shock value, he would have been little more than a flash in the pan. Instead, he has managed to refine the art of the grotesque into a thing of mesmerizing beauty.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. David Bowie
For some it i
s all about raw, visceral appeal or unabashed sexuality. For Bowie, it's more about the subtle androgynous beauty and unearthliness that he wears like a second skin. From his two-toned eyes to his melodically crooning voice, everything about him seems to have an ethereal quality to it. Perhaps it is fed by humanity's general curiosity of the "other" – those not quite like us. And perhaps Bowie is savvy enough to play upon this, crafting the alternate persona of Ziggy Stardust for himself and letting his music often slip toward the supernatural.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Bruce Springsteen
When it comes to raw charisma, it would be difficult to find someone who possesses a greater share of it than Spr
ingsteen. While not as classically pretty as some of the frontmen on this list, the Boss has a mixture of sentimentality and rough-edged charm that makes him stand head and shoulders above most who pick up the microphone. That, coupled with his gravelly, crooning speak-easy voice, has caused more than a few women's hearts to skip a beat when he presents one of his marathon live shows.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Bruce Dickinson
The term "Renaissance man" seems to particularly apply to Iron Maiden's front
man. Not only is he the gifted singer from one of the most recognized bands in the world, but also he is also a world-class fencer who helps to train the English Olympic team and a licensed pilot who flies the band around on its own 747. This rounding seems to come through in the swagger and showmanship that Dickinson brings to the stage.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Steven Tyler
Many of the older musicians on this list have had to
dial back their performances as time and trial take their toll. Not so with Tyler. Even with a 30-plus year career with Aerosmith to his credit, it doesn't seem like he has backed off the throttle one iota. He can still bring the fans to their feet and whip them into a frenzy with an upbeat song, or bring tears to their eyes with a heartfelt ballad. And all the while, he looks good doing it with his outlandish costuming and raw sex appeal, which has not eroded throughout the decades.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Alice Cooper
When you look at Alice Cooper, it isn't hard to see that a very vital part of being one of the great frontmen of all time is theatrics. Cooper seems t
o understand better than most that rock is part of show business, and he makes sure that his is a show worth seeing. Over the years, others such as Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson have studied at the feet of this master, who has thrilled and delighted with his macabre stage performances for years. Cooper's black humor and elaborate staging never fail to keep the audience captivated.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Jim Morrison
The Doors frontman was the prototype for the modern bad-boy rocker. But for Morrison it was more than just some
affected act. He seemed to be indelibly linked to his music, and onstage his songs practically poured out of his very soul, washing over the audience like an unstoppable tide. The Lizard King didn't have the most versatile voice, but when he sang it was like crushed velvet running through your brain, and that was more than enough. Add to that the dark, angst-ridden poet persona he exuded, and it isn't hard to see why he has become an archetype.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Iggy Pop
Onstage, Iggy
Pop is a madman whose intensity is off the charts. Iggy is the living personification of the sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll lifestyle -- and it's clear that it isn't just an act or a show or a persona. This is the life that he lives and breathes, and it is that honesty and genuine lust for life that truly resonates with his audiences. He seems more like a force of nature than merely a man when he is up there belting out songs in his brusque baritone. Iggy Pop is a man who lives and bleeds rock n' roll.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Ozzy Osbourne
The father of heavy metal, Ozzy has been up and down the road, seen it all and done it all -- twice. First as the frontman of Black Sabbath and then
branching out on his own, the "Blizzard of Oz" never disappoints. Ozzy is a wildman who isn't above biting the heads off of bats or doves to wow his audiences – not that he would need to. There is a charisma that Ozzy just naturally exudes when he takes the stage. Maybe it is the realization that you are in the presence of one of the great ones. Whatever it is, even after all these years, Ozzy can still steal a show like no one else.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Gene Simmons
We've talked
about Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper in terms of the showmanship and spectacle. But when it comes to honing the art of bringing theater to rock, no one holds a candle to Gene Simmons. Whether it is coughing up a stream of blood, blowing a towering gout of fire into the air or simply gesticulating his abnormally long and seemingly prehensile tongue at the adoring ladies in the front row, he is a showman first and foremost. And from the success that Kiss have enjoyed in the past 35 years, there is little doubt that this is exactly what people want.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Axl Rose
Axl Rose has attained an almost mythical status -- and not only for his onstage presence. Rose is a lightning rod for controversy, be it punching an unruly reporter or taking 14 year
s and $12 million to make an album. Despite all that, when he is on his game, there is no one better. Barely contained intensity mixes with manic energy to make him an attention magnet. And even with the depth of talent that the other members of Guns N' Roses possessed, it was impossible to keep from watching Axl as he rushed across teh stage, belting out notes that could shatter glass or bloody eardrums.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. David Lee Roth
Whether you l
ove him or you hate him, there is no question that Diamond Dave is one of the greatest rock n' roll frontmen of all time. His over-the-top personality, his flamboyance on and off the stage, his style, his swagger -- there is no question that Roth lives the rock n' roll lifestyle and he lives it hard. The former Van Halen frontman wears animal sexuality like some men wear cologne, and not only does he have all the ladies swooning onstage -- he had the guys getting into it and rocking out as well.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Mick Jagger
In many ways, the Rolling Stones serve as a model for any rock n' roll band that has come since -- and without question, Mick Jagger has served as very direct inspiration as to what
a great frontman should be. Once Jagger hit the scene, it was no longer enough to just be a talented singer with solid vocal chops. He served as a wake-up call for frontmen everywhere that they now had to be showmen as well – larger than life. Jagger has the energy, the emotion and, most important, the talent to round out the whole package. He has brought an attitude and a swagger that is second to none.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Freddie Mercury
Mercury could
bring a crowd to life like no other. With his refined, theatrical style, the king of Queen had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand each and every time he took the stage. He could rouse them into singing along with him note for note, or could call for a hush with the smallest gesture of his hand. This spellbinding relationship between a frontman and their audience is something that few other performers have been able to duplicate before or since, and is a testament to the charisma that Mercury possessed.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Elvis Presley
"Nothing really affected me until I heard Elvis. If there hadn't been an Elvis, there wouldn't have been a Beatles. --John Lennon
To be honest, if there had been no Elvis, the rest of this list would not exist. He could touch the hearts of his audience like no one else. His music could bring tears to the eye, and the crook of his lip or the sway of his hips would send the girls swooning. He had a way about him that made each person in the audience feel like he was singing just to him or her and that there was no one else around
I do agree with all the 20 names on the list I might have put a few of them in a different spot. But I will go withit because unlike some other blogs not naming names (Mitchell Blair) I don't think I know everything.
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