Friday, November 25, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Friday Morning

The review page we created still hasn't appeared yet on the server so it should be up anytime now so check it out once it goes up. On to the rumors...

*-> Nothing new on Kyle Turris yet, I'm keeping my ears open but many are still telling me the price is way too high now that the Coyotes are willing to just sit on him till the right offer.

*-> I'm hearing some rumors out of Toronto in regards to Cody Franson. The Leafs are denying their shopping the young blueliner but Brian Burke has admitted that he has received some offers but Burke is believed to be holding him till Mike Komisarek comes back into the fold.

*-> There's still many rumors surrounding Jeff Carter's discontent in Columbus although himself, his agent and GM all have said otherwise. The rumor mongers don't seam to believe him or want to drop this one. Usually from my experience where there is a rumor there is a tiny bit of truth but this one is a tough call as I don't see the Jackets parting with him.

*-> Sam Gagner is a player is watch as the Oilers look for a blueliner. Expect the Oil to try and dangle Gagner, Hemsky, Omark or another young name to try and add a blue chip defenseman. Lots keeps kinking Linus Omark to Carolina.

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Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Morning

A quiet day so far on the rumor front, well a quiet week so far actually. I'm not hearing too much but just teams kicking tires as every team still feels they have a shot to make the playoffs with their current rosters and deals are more cautious than usual.

I've been working on the forum situation, and I should have that up and running this week. For those using the old site I'll keep it going for another little while most likely till after December. C.A should have another edition of Crease Crashing in the up coming weeks and I have an article on the way next week as well as this Thursday I'll have a full review of Georges Laraques book. If there's anything you'd like to see on Ice Scoopz feel free to let us know, this is your site too. Just contact me at msharina@icescoopz.ca.

Finally for the last contest winner DWYZ please re-submit your information as I've yet to receive it. I still have your gift card ready to go which leads me into the next contest which will help debut our new forum next week so stay tuned.

*-> Stuart Percy of the St. Michael's Majors was signed to a 3 year deal by the Toronto Maple Leaf's yesterday./

*-> Not hearing too much on the Kyle Turris front although I got a chance to talk to my Sens connect and was told the Sens are still interested but he hasn't heard much the last couple of days. He did tell me to watch Brian Lee. I tried to ask about the Filip Kuba to Edmonton rumors and the only response I recieved was a chuckle.

*-> As for the other teams I'm hearing the Leaf's arn't looking at Turris heavily anymore as they are looking to trade Cody Franson pretty badly at this point. There has been talks of Florida trading Scott Clemmenson to the Leafs for Franson but I'm also hearing the possibility of Jose Theodore. I've also heard that before Evgeni Nabokov got hurt that they were interested but James Riemer is making unexpected progress. The Leafs are showcasing Jonas Gustafsson and once again are attempting to deal the Monster.

*-> Finally I'm hearing that Turris has been told he'll be moved as part of the signing deal, both parties will get what they wanted. Phoenix wont settle for just anything and are holding teams to high price. I'm also hearing the Yotes wont even look to teams in the West....so far.

More around lunch.

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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Evening

Sorry folks I've been in and out of the hospital visiting my dad so I've been tied up the past couple of days and unable to reports but everythings going well and now it's on to the rumors.

*-> The Ottawa Senators are continuing their pursuit of Desert Dog Kyle Turris. Don Maloney is still maintaining that he isn't shopping the centerman but I'm still hearing otherwise. It is doubtful however that the Coyotes will move him untill ether he signs a deal or until the final hours before December 1st. There are at least 8 teams interested inTurris but Ottawa, Calgary and Toronto remain the strongest bidders.

*-> There are also rumors going around the Ottawa Senators are looking at Darrick Brassard of the Columbus Blue Jackets but there appears to be better potential suitors than the Sens. It's believed that GM Scott Howson is looking for solid veteran goalie or some instant help at any posistion before he moves Brassard. I'm trying to dig deeper into this one but apart from rumors I've yet to hear anything solid. Some have said that the Islanders and the Jackets are talking Nabokov....

*-> Last bit of Sens news, it appears Nikita Filatov once again is unhappy playing in the AHL. Reports out of Russia have CSKA Moscow highly interested in the Russian sniper and willing to take him on loan.

*-> I'm hearing reports the Toronto Maple Leafs have spoken with Marty Turco in the past couple of days. With James Riemer out for what appears to be long term and the Monster not able to gain Ron Wilsons confidence the Leafs will look at all options.

*-> Niklas Hagman was claimed off re-entry waivers by the Anaheim Ducks yesterday for half the price while the Calgary Flames remain on the hook for the other half.

*-> Mikko Koskinen of the New York Islanders has gone back to Finland to join KalPa of the SM Liiga while goaltender Ari Ahonen has left KalPa in a loan to Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL due to Koskinen's arrival.

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Friday, November 11, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Friday Noon

Here's the rest of this mornings rumors

*-> Linus Omark's name keeps coming up, a major rumor keeps spinning it's wheels saying the shootout specialist could be headed to Carolina soon if the Edmonton Oiler's keep rolling along.

*-> It's believed that Frolunda, HV71, and MODO of the SEL as well as Neftekhimik of the KHL are all highly interested in Mats Zuccarello if the New York Rangers decide to loan him overseas.

*-> I'm hearing that the Islanders are lining up suitors for Evgeni Nabokov as he's extremely restless in Long Island and wants out. He could be on the move today, there are rumors that Fedor Tyutin could be sent to the Islanders for Nabby. I'm hearing the Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets remain the front runners but St. Louis, Winnipeg and Calgary have interest now too.

*-> Marty Turco continues to shop himself around the league and is still maintaining he could be had for cheap and is willing to accept a mentoring role. Columbus anyone?

*-> As I type this Bob McKenzie has twittered that he's been told Fedor Tyutin will not be traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets. It wouldn't make much sense if he were but who knows with the Blue Jackets.

More in a bit

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Ice Scoopz: Friday Morning

Lots of new rumors on the go after a day off. We'll start with the several waiver claims made yesterday.

*-> The Anaheim Ducks claimed forward Ben Maxwell off waivers from the Winnipeg Jets.

*-> The St. Louis Blues lost Taylor Chorney to the Edmonton Oilers.

*-> Mattias Ritola was waiver yesterday by the Tampa Bay Lightning then loaned to MODO of the SEL after not being claimed.

Now on to the rumors I'll start with the situation in Columbus

*-> I'm hearing lots of rumblings out of Columbus today. I received a text yesterday from a buddy saying "watch Nash". From what I'm hearing around the league is Rick Nash may be unhappy in Columbus and ready to pull the plug after watching his franchise consistently bomb. There's not doubt that absolutely nothing has worked out for the Blue Jackets except Rick Nash and maybe the signing of Vinny Prospal. Most of their high level prospects have busted and or have struggled with their careers playing in Columbus. Lets take a journey back in time for a second and look at where the Jackets first rounders have gone

2011(8th) - None - Traded to Philadelphia (Sean Couturier) with a 3rd Round Pick 2011 (Nick Cousins) and Jakub Voracek for Jeff Carter

2010 (4th) - Ryan Johansen -

2009 (21st) - John Moore -

2008 (6th) - Nikita Filatov - Trade to Ottawa for 3rd Round Pick 2011 (Thomas Tynan)

2007 (7th) - Jakub Voracek - Trade to Philadelphia for Jeff Carter with 2011 1st Round Pick (Sean Couturier) and 2011 3rd Round Pick (Nick Cousins)

2006 (6th) - Derek Brassard -

2005 (6th) - Gilbert Brule - Trade to Edmonton for Raffi Torres

2004 (8th) - Alexandre Picard - Trade to Phoenix for Chad Kolarik

2003 (4th) - Nikolai Zherdev - Trade to New York Rangers with Dan Fritsche fro Christian Backman and Fedor Tyutin

2002 (1st) - Rick Nash -

2001 (8th) - Pascal Leclaire - Trade to Ottawa with a 2nd Round Pick 2009 (Robin Lehner) for Antoine Vermette

2000 (4th) - Rostislav Klesla - Trade to Phoenix with Dane Byersfor Scottie Upshall, and Sami Lepisto

So when looking at the above for a team that has essentially picked in the top 10 for the past 10 years the Blue Jackets should boast a pretty good line-up. When Rick Nash and Rostislav Klesla (both of which were Doug Maclean era picks btw) have been your only real success the problem lies with the scouting staff and management. Ryan Johansen is their only real blue chipper in the organization and Rick Nash after being promised the ship would turn around for many years now is undoubtedly frustrated. So I believe the rumors about him being unhappy in Ohio. I don't think Rick Nash is the type to request a trade but we do remember he did test the waters of free agency in 2009. The more the ship continues to sink I have a feeling the Rick Nash rumors will persist. I highly doubt anything in Columbus is going to change without a complete overhaul of the management and even the roster.

*-> Bob McKenzie of TSN believes a deal is in the works to send defenseman Fedor Tyutin somewhere and the Nikitin deal could be a prelude to something bigger. I've been hearing Tyutin's name dropped a few times as well so we'll have to watch him over the next few hours. As for destinations I'm hearing Dallas and Montreal so far.

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Trade! Columbus -> St. Louis

*-> The Columbus Blue Jackets were at it again this morning as they dealt defenseman Kris Russell to the St. Louis Blues for defenseman Nikita Nikitin. Just another shake-up move? Or is this another setup move?

I have a feeling this isn't all for the Blue Jackets but I also have a feeling this is all there able to find at the current time.

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Remembrance Day

I hope everyone is having a good morning on this chilly Remembrance Day. Lots of rumors and even a trade to announce but out of respect for all those who lost their lives fighting in wars accross the world for our freedom I'm going to hold off till after the moment of silence. So please bow your heads and observe a moment of silence for all those brave men and women. We will never forget you.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Noon

*-> The Philadelphia Flyers have resigned Braydon Coburn to a 4 year 18$ million dollar deal this morning. Coburn has been a steady presence for the Broad Street Bullies but $4.5 million per season is a bit steap especially when moving forward with an expensive roster.

*-> Not hearing much on my mornings rumors on Boston and Florida except people are saying the Bruins are highly interested in Stephen Weiss and reuniting him with Nathen Horton. David Krejci maybe the return? I'll keep listening out for anything new.

*-> GM Scott Howson of the Columbus Blue Jackets has told the Columbus media that acquiring Mark Letestu this morning isn't leading up to another deal. I beg to differ Letestu alone isn't going to put the Jackets into contention or even close, plus this appears to be a stocking up depth move.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Morning + Trades

The last couple of days I've received a few e-mails about adding a comments section to my blog so in the next couple of days I'll be adding a forum again. Last time around it not many people chose to use it and would rather comment on each post but a forum has so many options and I feel is the better way to go. If it goes well I'll also look at adding a brief comment section per post.

Some KHL news then a couple of minor trades to tell you about.

*-> Former Montreal Canadien and Nashville Predator Oleg Petrov has found a new team for the season. Petrov will join AK Bars Kazan for the remainder of the season.

*-> In other KHL news Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk has confirmed interest in New York Ranger Mats Zuccarello.

*-> I'm hearing rumors of the Florida Panthers and the Boston Bruins talking shop this morning. The recently surging Bruins are reportedly seaking a depth defenseman and yes more offense although they have out scored their opponents 18-5 in the last 3 games played.

*-> Last night the Columbus Blue Jackets acquired Mark Letestu from the Pittsburgh Penguins for a 4th round pick in 2012. Looks like the Jackets are trying to add anything cheap possible to help their ailing club. I'm hearing they need to make the playoffs this year or else so expect some kind of push to come.

*-> The Washington Capitals also made a minor deal this morning and dealt Francois Bouchard to the New York Rangers for defenseman Tomas Kundratek. Not much to comment on for this one except both teams look to be address depth needs at the AHL level. Doubtful ether will have any impact on their parant clubs.

More rumors around noon stay tuned!

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Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Morning/Afternoon

Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, I got some much need R&R. Not much on the go today except a few calls in regards to the recent Daniel Alfresson rumors which we'll start with. This post was meant for this morning but got completely tied up till now but anyways on with the rumors.

*-> I know everyone by now has heard the crazy Alfredsson trade rumors that has swept the internet. To me these rumors don't make any kind of sense as why would anyone inquire about a freshly injured Daniel Alfredsson. Especially when it's a serious head injury to an aging player which many believe is way more serious than predicted. If you haven't heard the rumors they consist of Alfredsson being sent to ether the Vancouver Canucks (Swede connections i.e the Sedins) or the Edmonton Oilers (youth movement) both highly covet Alfredssons leadership abilities and on ice determination and talent. I wasn't fishing for anything on the Alfredsson subject with my source but was told randomly that Alfredsson is untouchable for now but here's the kicker it's believed he'd be willing to take a trade possibly before retiring as long as it's a hopeful shot. I was told the management on the other hand isn't feeling the same way. Eugene Melnyk is a huge Alfie fan and mosty likely would nix any deal for the captain especially since he feels the Sens still have playoff talent this season.

*-> Lots of Cory Schnieder rumors swirling as well, nevermind the silly Roberto Luongo rumors. Columbus is possibly interested as they need some help badly for young Steve Mason. They were previously looking for a veteran goalie but it's believed they could shop Mason while teams still have high hopes. Another destination would be to send Schnieder out of the West and to the New Jersey Devils where they will need a future replacement for the aging Martin Brodeur. I've also heard whispers of Luongo to NJ as well but I'm not convinced yet the Canucks are ready to pull the plug.

*-> On the Kyle Turris watch, it appears to be slowing down for now. Not much new out there, or at least I'm not hearing much new. Don Maloney went on the record Saturday night on Hockey Night In Canada and said he will not trade Turris. It seams this is about principal for Maloney and the Coyotes. It's still believed he's avaliable but Maloney is determined that a sign and trade deal is what has to happen otherwise Turris will sit and rot. The Turris camp are reportedly shopping his services and do not want any part of the Coyotes so this could get ugly before it gets done. But the key is Maloney keeps insisting that he's not shopping him. Then again the St. Louis Blues also said there wasn't going to be any coaching changes any time soon nor would Ken Hitchcock ever be the coach of the Blues so. The Toronto Maple Leafs are rumored to be yet another NHL team interested in Turris.

*-> Evgeni Nabokov is attraching interest around the league, I'm hearing at least two teams were scouting him last week. Columbus as mentioned above and rumored to also be watching are the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Well back to the office, I had a chance to start reading Georges Laraques book that comes out soon so I should have a review shortly. If anyone hasn't checked out Cody Ackland's column in the column section check it out. It's a great read and even I enjoyed it despite my Jeremy Roenick like position on Sid the Kid

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Thursday, November 3, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Evening

*-> TSN has just confirmed our rumor this afternoon that the New York Rangers have indeed signed defenseman Anton Stralman to a 1 year 900K deal.

*-> The Providence Bruins have signed NHL veteran Chris Clark to a professional try-out at the recommendation of the Boston Bruins this afternoon.

*-> Cody Franson of the Toronto Maple Leafs is avaliable. Rumors have Franson upset with his ice time and usage in Toronto. I'm hearing both the Blue Jackets and the Rangers although it doesn't make much sense with the Rangers signing Stralman.

*-> The Phoenix Coyotes are telling teams that they will not trade Kyle Turris unless they can sign him first. They refuse to back down according to the management and even if a trade is reached they wish to send a message to their players.

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Afternoon

Lots of rumors starting to brew today it appears the Columbus Blue Jackets and Boston Bruins are the two names that keep resurfacing to no surprise. Check out the wicked first edition of Crease Crashing by CA today by clicking the text or heading to the Columns page.

*-­­ Not much new on Kyle Turris and the Phoenix Coyotes today. I am hearing the Senators are still leading the way, from what i hear Bryan Murray is extremely high on Turris and covets him as their second line center but are expecting more of a deal like they had with the Blue Jackets for Nikita Filatov rather than the high price being asked. The Flames are attempting to package Matt Stajan in any deal people are saying but the yotes are still contract weary and are looking for youth who can help now rather than unwanted cap hits.

*- The Boston Bruins brass has admitted to kicking tires around the league in order to help right the ship. Although management has said they don`t want to rip apart their Stanley Cup roster they have to do diligance and take a look tpo see what options they have. Rene Bourque`s name has come up several times linked to the B`s. In my opinion once the Bruins offence gets going they`ll be alright, maybe a minor move to shake them up but it`s all part of the Cup Hangover right.

*- The New York Rangers continue to talk to a free agent defenseman, Anton Stralman is the man I believe their interested in.

More in a bit...

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Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

A few quick whispers from around the league..

*-> Kyle Turris is rumored to have up to 8 teams interested in him. The Columbus Blue Jackets have reportedly entered the fray. Ottawa still seams to be the consensus favorite but arn't willing to pay the Coyotes the steap price being asked.

*-> Evgeni Nabokov is gaining interest around the league. Some are saying the Solumbus Blue Jackets would love to add some insurance while many are saying that Toronto is ready to pull the plug on Jonas Gustavsson and bring in support for James Riemer. I'm not too sold on the Leafs interested yet although there is the Ron Wilson connection. It isn't a secret when Rick DiPietro gets healthy the odd man out is Nabokov. No way Dipietro is going anywhere.

*-> The Edmonton Oilers are silently shopping Linus Omark around the league. The skilled winger has sat the last 5 Oiler games and isn't keen on heading back to the AHL again. Remember Omark holds a return to the KHL clause if he's unhappy. It's said several teams in the East are interested but most teams continue to try and barter for Ales Hemsky. I'm hearing the Habs and the Canes both love Hemsky.

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Tuesday, November 1, 2011

We've Moved!

Welcome back! For those who haven't been following as of late and for those who are new we've been under extreme renovations the past few weeks hance the silence. Well we're officially back up and running. We've moved locations to our own domain and we've doubled the content. Lots of awesome changes, new columns and features. For the next little while I will be updating both sites till all of our followers adjust.

Ice Scoopz's new location is http://www.icescoopz.ca. See you guys there!

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Evening

*-> The Kyle Turris watch is on. I was contacted by a source telling me that the Ottawa Senators have been in contact with the Phoenix Coyotes in regards to Turris. My source informed me although GM Don Maloney is denying shopping the holding out Turris the Yotes are listening for offers. Apparently they have been in talks with at least 4 teams Calgary I'm hearing is the second Canadian team. The Coyotes brass are still denying any movement of Turris and still claim their ok with him sitting out but those appear to be scare tactics. My source tells me that Phoenix is asking an arm and a leg however. The asking price is rumored to be a 1st round pick, or a combo of both a defensive and forward prospects according to my source.

*-> The New York Rangers are in talks with a free agent defenseman, it looks like Marc Staal could be out even longer than believed. Some are saying Bryan McCabe but I highly doubt McCabe is in the mix.

*-> I'm hearing rumblings of a possible Marty Turco signing. Turco is in shape and ready to settle for the minimum salary along with a strictly back up role. Recently several pundits have linked him to Columbus while I'm hearing Toronto. *-> Ville Nieminen has signed a deal this morning in the KHL with Dynamo Riga.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Sunday Evening

After a nice long weekend off I'm back at the desk and back in action as several training camp invitations were missed while I was away.

*-> Wade Redden was told by the New York Ranger's organization he will not be attending their training camp this season further speculating that the Rangers have plans to buy the defenseman out sometime in the near future. After spending last season playing the the Hartford Wolves, Redden won't get his chance this season to prove his worth during training camp as due to salary constraints and the Rangers moving in a direction on the back end.

*-> Fernando Pisani has excepted a training camp invite to the Columbus Blue Jackets camp.

*-> Anders Eriksson is once again trying to force his way into the NHL as the Vancouver Canucks give the well travelled Swede another look.

*-> As well as Eriksson, Niko Dimitrakos of Adler Mannheim is attempting to make the Vancouver Canucks.

*-> Shaun Heshka of EC Salzburg has received an invite from the Los Angeles Kings as well as Ray Macias of the Lake Erie Monsters.

*-> Alexei Yashin's NHL comeback is still on going. He continues to skate with the Isles as he gathers offers from around the KHL. It's rumored he'll play with the Isle or no-one in the NHL according to reports now but as many as 5 KHL teams have made offers including Vityaz Chekhov who threw in a major offer this weekend.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

*-> The Los Angeles Kings have invited former New York Islander Trent Hunter to a pro try-out.

*-> Brad Marchand has come to terms with the Boston Bruins signing a two year deal worth 5 Million dollars overall. 2 million$ the first year and 3 million$ the second.

*-> I'm hearing Sergei Samsonov has received several offers from KHL teams but is looking to remain in the NHL. It's reported that the Pittsburgh Penguins may have extended a try-out offer but his agent maintains that their still in talks with one team about a possible signing. I'm hearing the Islanders could be that team.

*-> While on the Islanders, Mr. Alexei Yashin is still trying to figure out his future while skating with the Isles. Yashin was leaning towards Russia but now that Yaroslavl has dropped to a lower div it's looking like a return to Long Island is looking more and more likely especially with the Islanders cap situation.

*-> I'm also hearing talks between Drew Doughty and the Los Angeles Kings brass has picked up again but both sides are far apart still. The Kings are sticking with not letting his salary go higher than Anze Kopitar's 6.8$ million.

*-> Zach Bogosian whose in the same boat as Doughty maintains he's not concerned and will continue to train and practice with the Jets as he figures a deal with be done before camp starts. Some are saying the Montreal Canadiens are highly interested in Bogosian but the Jets are asking for an arm and a leg or according to some Scott Gomez which doesnt make sense.

*-> Finally fellow RFA Luke Schenn is all but done. The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to announce a deal by Friday. I'm hearing around 4 to 5 million per year.

*-> Yesterday the Winnipeg Jets confirmed the invite extended to Janne Pesonen of AK Bars Kazan to their fall training camp.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Late Afternoon

A few training camp invitations to announce today plus an update on the KHL Lokomotiv Yaroslavl situation.

*-> Bob McKenzie of TSN tweeted today that Brad Winchester has received a training camp invitation from the San Jose Sharks.

*-> The Philadelphia Flyers have invited tough guy Adam Mair to their training camp to try and fill the spot left by Aaron Asham's departure.

*-> Bill Thomas formerly of the Florida Panthers has signed an AHL deal with the San Antonio Rampage for the next season. The deal is rumored to include and NHL release clause.

*-> In Russia this morning the KHL has officially announced their plans for the club Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. It was reported late last week that a league wide draft would take place but the club felt a year off would be best for the city and the club despite many fans and players fight to keep the team in the KHL for the 2011-2012 season. The KHL management reportedly felt it was best to keep hockey going in Yaroslavl so the mutual decision to allow the club to continue in the lesser level league the former Russian Super League aka RSL then next year bring the club back. Some players may be loaned to Lokomotiv from other KHL squads with the teams picking up the contract to help them stabilize and make a return next season. For now it's reported that Yaroslavl will use a combo of free agents and their farm team to compete at the lower level.

RIP Alexander Galimov


*-> This morning it's being reported through National news agencies that Alexander Galimov the sole suriviving player of the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl crash has passed due to his injuries from the crash. Galimov was a product of the Yaroslavl farm system and a native of Yaroslavl. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Monday Evening

A quiet Monday for most NHL teams except for the New Jersey Devils who were busy gearing up for their training camp with a few additions.

*-> The New Jersey Devils have invited Ottawa 67 Thomas Nesbitt to their camp coming up shortly.

*-> Kamloops Blazer and also undrafted free agent J.T. Barnett will also be attending the Devils camp in upcoming weeks.

*-> The Devils have also extended an offer to former Devil and former NHLer Petr Sykora. Sykora who played for Dynamo Minsk last season had recently signed with HC Plzen of the Czech Eliteliga.

*-> Another training camp invite was extended to former Columbus Blue Jacket defenseman Anton Stalman who reportedly turned down several offers in the KHL to try-out for the Devils.

*-> Finally Steve Bernier formerly of the Florida Panthers will be attepting to make the cut as well.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Saturday Afternoon

*-> Manny Legace has accepted a try-out with the Vancouver Canucks.

Friday, September 9, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Friday Evening

*-> Around the hockey blogging world many are starting to say there's talks happening between the Colorado Avalanche and the Nashville Predators. Not much is known other than the two sides have been speaking. Some are saying the offense starved Preds may be looking at Paul Stastny, while the Avs may be looking at Ryan Suter.

*-> Bryan McCabe is currently sitting on a try-out invitation from the New York Islanders. Rumor has he originally shot down the offer but now is in thinking mode aboutit.

*-> Steve Staios is still maintaining that he's had offers but will wait for the right situation a.k.a a young rebuilding team to help mentor. He has turned down the Islanders however several reports have said.

*-> More news out of Russia, I've heard from a source Alexei Yashin is now leaning towards signing with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl and not an NHL comeback as it's now been said several free agent players from around Europe would like to lend their services to the mourning club. Some are even saying the list of players approaching Lokomotiv could be 20 plus players. I've also heard that KHL management has confirmed a 1 to 2 player draft from around the league and the rest filled out by junior players and free agents.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Late Afternoon

*-> Former Carolina Hurricane Troy Brodie has earned a training camp invite with the Winnipeg Jets.

*-> The Colorado Avalanche have resigned defenseman Kyle Cumiskey to a 1 year deal.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Afternoon + Minor Trade

*-> Jarkko Ruutu has officially signed with Jokerit of the SEL as previously rumored on Ice Scoopz. The deal appears to be a one year deal. Word on the street had several try-out offers on the table for Ruutu but it came down to going into September with a for sure deal.

*-> TSN has reported that the Vancouver Canucks have resigned restricted free agent forward Victor Oreskovich to a new contract. It is rumored to be a 1 year deal.

*-> The Boston Bruins have also resigned a restricted free agent today by locking in Andrew Bodnarchuk to a 1 year deal on a two-way contract. Rumor has the deal around 625K$ for the season.

*-> TSN has also broke the signing of Kyle Wellwood to the Winnipeg Jets. The deal is a 1 year deal worth 700K$ for the season.

*-> The Chicago Blackhawks have acquired David Toews the brother of Jonathan Toews for future considerations off the New York Islanders.

*-> I'm hearing whispers out of the KHL that Lokomotiv Yaroslavl fully intend on playing through the tragedy and using some of their MHL talent as well as an "expansion draft" scenario the league has proposed. The rumored draft would consist of any players not protected by their club. I'm hearing nothing is official yet as most North American media are reporting.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Evening

*-> Former Boston Bruin and Buffalo Sabre Miroslav Satan has left the KHL this morning and will suit up for HC Slovan Bratislava of the Slovak Elite League.

*-> The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed defensive specialist Richard Park to a 1 year deal worth 500K$ per season. The deal is a two way deal and Park is expected to start the season off in the AHL.

*-> I'm hearing Zack FitzGerald formerly of the Charlotte Checkers has received a try-out invitation from the Montreal Canadiens.

Trade! Phoenix -> Florida

*-> The Florida Panthers have traded Marc Cheverie to the Phoenix Coyotes for Justin Bernhardt.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Ice Scoopz: A National Hockey Lea...Disgrace

A sad sad morning in the world of hockey with this mornings tragic events.

Gary Bettman and the NHL have reached an all time low this afternoon as well. While Russian emergency crews pull the charred bodies of their countrymen and National heroes to many, Sid "The Kid" and the Pittsburgh Penguins embarassed the National Hockey League with a 30 minute press conference. I'm pretty out raged by the fact the NHL still had the decency to go through with the conference after the horrific crash. Not only was it poorly timed it was 30 minutes of trash. Nothing the hockey world didn't already know ether or nothing that couldn't have been summed up in under 5 minutes. The NHL's latest attempt to market and exploit a star player by using his injury to get attention for the league. This isn't the first concussion that has happened. No-one held a live National televised conference for Marc Savard when he was recovering or even when now his playing future is in doubt. I've recently heard from a family member Savard struggles to even travel by any means because of his injuries. Does Mr. Bettman really care? No because he isn't marketable. Sidney Crosby should be embarassed by his actions today, and his rival Alexander Ovechkin who he is often compared to would have more decency and allow Nations to mourn instead of flooding the media and taking attention off a day many will remember for ever due to the pain, suffering and voids left on 43 families for the rest of their lives. Fatherless kids and a heartbroken Nation are not important as Sidneys poor head, and by the way according to his doctor he's at 80 to 90% and will play again. Ask the doctors if the players involved in the crash will ever play again, it's highly if the sole hockey survivor Alexander Galimov who suffered 3rd degree burns to 80% of his body will ever play again. Because of this senseless press conference many North Americans will be clueless to what happened in Russia and now will remember today as the day Sidney Crosby told the world he will play again and feels better not the day 43 members of Yaroslavl Automotiv died tragic deaths. Sidney Crosby should hang his head in shame after this embarassment to hockey. Mr. Crosby can now call up his NBA counterpart Lebron James and discuss the finer points of being puppeted by their leagues and to being embarassments to their sports with disgraceful press conferences. God have mercy on him if any money was involved in this conference. Oh and any Sports media or even worse regular media outlets covering the Sidney Crosby conference should also be a ashamed in their actions today by broadcasting it.

My deepest and most sencere condolences to all the friends and families effected by todays crash. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. For the rest of the day I will not report anything not Yaroslavl realated out of respect.

-Mike "Scoopz" Sharina

Ice Scoopz: Breaking News

Sad news this morning as the news has broke around the world that a plane carrying the staff and players of the KHL club Lokomotiv Yaroslavl has crashed killing 35 people on route from Moscow to Minsk. Not much else is known at the current time. Pavol Demitra, Ruslan Salei, and Josef Vasicek were all rumored to be on board.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the organization.

**Update

It appears the casualty number has gone up to 43 people. The plane was carrying 45 passengers so they now have two confirmed survivors. 37 passengers and 8 crew members are presumed dead. The cause of the crash has been ruled a pilot error. another press release out of Russia has said not all the players may have been travelling by plane but theres no confirmation of that.

***Update
The following players have been confirmed as being deceased.

#1 Stefan Liv (G)
#35 Olexander Viyukhin (G)
#57 Vitali Anikeyenko (D)
#39 Mikhail Balandin (D)
#37 Karlis Skrastins (D)

While #11 Alexander Galimov (RW) has been confirmed as the passenger survivor and the second survivor is one of the plane crew.

****Update
It's been reported the entire main roster has been confirmed among the deceased and it appears that Alexander Galimov has now passed as well. Also the league has said 4 MHL players were also on board.

#20 Robert Dietrich (D)
#74 Marat Kalimulin (D)
#4 Karel Rachunek (D) - Captain
#42 Ruslan Salei (D)
#3 Pavel Trakhanov (D)
#81 Yuri Urychev (D)
#21 Gennadi Churilov (C/LW)
#38 Pavol Demitra (C/W)
#28 Alexander Kalyanin (LW)
#83 Andrei Kiryukhin (F)
#23 Nikita Klyukin (C)
#15 Jan Marek (C)
#24 Sergei Ostapchuk (LW)
#91 Daniil Sobchenko (C)
#17 Ivan Tkachenko (RW) - Assistant
#63 Josef Vasicek (C/LW) - Assistant
#18 Alexander Vasyunov (LW/RW)
#72 Artem Yarchuk (F)
Maxim Shuvalov (D) - MHL
Alexander Karpovtsev - Assistant Coach
Igor Korolev - Assistant Coach
Brad McCrimmon - Head Coach

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Afternoon

a very busy day for myself so a little later than planned.

*-> I'm hearing that the training camp invite for former Columbus Blue Jacket Chris Clark is official now.

*-> Enforcer David Koci has received an invite from the Winnipeg Jets.

*-> I'm hearing that Washington Capital prospect Dmitri Kugryshev has taken off to the KHL (CSKA Moscow) from the Hersey Bears after not being assured a roster spot. I've also heard that the player does hold a NHL opt out clause so we'll see how this ends.

*-> Radislav Suchy has signed on to play in the KHL leaving behind HK SKP Poprad and signing on with Avangard OMSK.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Morning

*-> The Vancouver Canucks have invited Steve Begin to attend their trainging camp. Rumors also have the Canucks interested in veteran goaltender Manny Legace, it's reported he's pondering a try out oppertunity with the "Nucks".

*-> Defensive specialist Jay Pandolfo has been invited to attend the New York Islanders training camp.

*-> A hot rumor has the Boston Bruins looking at Chris Clark. Could be something in the works.

More around 1.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

*-> Pascal Leclaire has reportedly pulled the plug on any possible comeback for the start of the season after failing a physical for an unamed team. Leclaire has admitted to still being injured and trying to recover from off season hip surgery. While Leclaire would like to return to the NHL he has to settle for waiting till at least mid season before trying for a comeback as he claims he's under 80%.

*-> The Detroit Red Wings have reportedly offered Ryan Johnson a 1 year deal.

*-> The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed Fedor Tyutin to a six year deal.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Late Afternoon

A little update on some free agent prospect I expected to get training camp invites in my last report.

*-> Scott Oke of the Saint John Sea Dogs has indeed earned himself a training camp invite and will be headed down to Dallas to try and crack the Stars.

*-> Marek Hrivik also was mentioned in my best prospects left article and also earned himself an invite to an NHL camp this fall. The Slovak winger will attempt to make the Phoenix Coyotes this September.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now on to the rest..

*-> Maxime Villemaire of the Drummondville Voltigeurs will attend the St. Louis Blues camp.

*-> Gabriel Desjardins of the Halifax Mooseheads will head to Tamp for the Lightning's camp.

*-> Goaltender Maxime Lagacé of the Prince Edward Island Rocket will try-out for the Pittsburgh Penguins while teammate Jimmy Oligny will try out for the Washington Capitals.

*-> Olivier Daoust of the Moncton Wildcats will attending the Dallas Stars training camp while fellow Wildcat Daniel Milan will try his luck in Tampa Bay.

*-> The St. Louis Blues have invited Martin Lefebvre of the Quebec Remparts to their training camp.

*-> Alex Belzile will tryout for the Minnesota Wilds while Rimouski Océanic Étienne Boutet will try out for the Flyers.

*-> France born goaltender Robin Gusse of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies will try and earn deal with the Montreal Canadiens.

*-> Lot's of Saint John Sea Dogs attending camps this fall as Alexandre Beauregard Danick Gauthier (Phoenix), Pierre Durepos (LA), and Ian Saab (Vancouver).

*-> The Detroit Red Wings are looking at Russian Artem Sergeev of the Val-d'Or Foreurs.

*-> Stefan Fournier of the Victoriaville Tigres will head to the Steel City to attend the Pens camp.

*-> A major deal in the OHL has happened today as the London Knights acquired the rights to Tie Domi's song Max Domi from the Kingston Frontenacs for Erie's 2nd round pick in 2012, Guelph's 2nd round pick in 2012, and London's own 2nd round draft pick in 2015.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Afternoon

*-> TSN has confirmed that the Philadelphia Flyers have signed James Van Riemsdyk to an extension that's a 6 year deal worth 25.5$ million or 4.25$ million per season.

*-> Speaking of deals I'm hearing Luke Schenn of the Toronto Maple Leafs is extremely close to signing a new deal with the club.

*-> Etienne Brodeur of Chicoutimi Saguenéens has been invited to the Montreal Canadiens training camp.

*-> Blake Millman of Cape Breton Screaming Eagles has been invited to the Phoenix desert to join their camp on a try-out.

*-> Jonathan Narbonne of the newly created Blainville-Boisbriand Armada has been invited to attend the Flyers camp.

*-> Vancouver has invited Baie-Comeau Drakkar forward Jonathan Lessard to their camp.

*-> Veteran Steve Staios is still looking to play this season and is hoping to sign on with young team and help the youngsters develop.

*-> A ridiculous rumor has taken the blogging world by storm as reports have the newly brought back Winnipeg Jets have been in talks with the Montreal Canadiens about Scott Gomez. The rumor has Gomez headed to Manitoba for young Zach Bogosian or Ron Hainsey. I doubt this is true as why would the Jets want a player who is highly over paid and struggles to hit 50 points. I highly doubt it.

Monday, August 29, 2011

Trade! Calgary -> Phoenix

*-> TSN has reported the Calgary Flames have traded Daymond Langkow to the Phoenix Coyotes for Lee Stepniak pending a physical.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Noon

Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, not a whole lot to recap just a few training camp invites and a few minor signings for the morning.

*-> Campbell Elynuik of the Regina Pats has been invited to the Flyers prospect and training camp.

*-> The Minnesota wild have invited former Chicago Blackhawk defenseman Jordan Hendry to their training camp.

*-> Cole Grbavac of the Medicine Hat Tigers has been invited to the Dallas Stars camp.

*-> Former Ottawa Senator Randy Robitaille has left San Antonio of the AHL to play for Metallurg Novokuznetsk.

*-> Jaime Lundmark has also decided to ply his trade in the KHL with Dynamo Riga.

*-> Sergei Brylin has ended the possibility of an NHL comeback as he resigned in the KHL leaving St. Petersberg and headed to Metallurg Novokuznetsk.

*-> Providence Bruins forward and Boston prospect has left to the KHL. He'll suit up for SKA St. Petersburg.

*-> Chicago Blackhawk Igor Makarov has also left the AHL to play in the "K" for SKA St. Petersburg.

*-> Rumors have Jarkko Ruutu considering an offer from Metallurg Novokuznetsk but reports still have him fielding offers from around the NHL. It's said he's not willing to attend a camp and is looking for a 2 year deal which isn't out there at the moment. Jokerit also has an offer on the table it's said.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Possible Potential Prospect Training Camp Invitees

Marek Hrivik
6'1" - 185 lbs - LW - Free Agent - QMJHL
One of the few players who didn't get picked up in the QMJHL dispersal draft and is quite surprising since he's put up good numbers the past two seasons with his career best coming last season with 79 points in 59 games. He's no stranger to attending NHL camps as he attended the Columbus Blue Jacket camp last season. With no team expect Hrivik's agent to be pressing hard for his client.

Scott Oke
6'2" - 185 lbs - LW - Saint John Sea Dogs - QMJHL
While Scott Oke isn't going to carry your team offensively the undrafted winger has the potential to be a depth player in a checking role. Oke had decent playoff run with the Saint John Sea Dogs putting up 6 points in 18 games almost matching his season total of 10 points in 54 games. His main attribute was his shut down abilities which had him at one point ranked 44th by the NHL's Central Scouting Agency. He's a long shot prospect that may have some teams thinking about giving him a look in a few weeks at camp.

Anthony Maiani
5'7" - 155 lbs - C - Wheeling Nailers - ECHL
Small is definitely an understatement when it comes to Anthony Maiani but untalented is not. He can do it all at both ends of the ice and has been showcasing that with the U of Denver for 4 seasons now. He's not a sniper but his vision sets him apart as he's able to find and use his teammates efficiently and isn't afraid to take a big hit to make a play. He may be better suited for the wing due to his small frame but could be worth a look this fall.

Andrej Stastny
6'4" - 214 lbs - C - HK Dukla Trencin - Slovakia
I'd be surprised if the former Vancouver Giant doesn't get an invite to an NHL camp. Whether or not he accepts is another story. Stastny is a big body with an offensive touch. He managed to almost put up a point per game in his first season in the WHL with 30 points in 32 games played as he battled injuries. A tough player that isn't afraid to get gritty as he added 40 penalty minutes. After an alright 2010 World Juniors his stock dipped and was ranked 144th by the NHL's Central Scouting. Now trying his luck after going undrafted in Slovakia's "major league" he'll get to showcase his talents against men.

Denis Golubev
5'11" - 194 lbs - C - Bars Kazan - MHL
Could it have been Denis Golubev's linemates in this years World Juniors that allowed Golubev space and time to produce with 3 goals and 3 assists in 7 games? He's an intriguing player as he's managed to produce at over a point per game pace in the KHL's junior league the MHL for Bars Kazan. With 42 points in 30 games he's looked good and has also earned himself 5 games last season with his parent club Ak Bars Kazan. He plays a physical game for his size and isn't afraid to show a mean streak which also leads to untimely penalties. He's also has great one of one skills but his defensive play on the other hand has come into question.

Dylan Wruck
5'8" - 162 lbs - RW - Edmonton Oil Kings - WHL
Another pint sized player that have many teams wrote off the past two drafts even though he was ranked at 99 by Central Scouting. An offensive dynamo who exploded on to the scene in the WHL this season for the Edmonton Oil Kings. 38 goals and 79 points in the WHL is pretty damn good. He's a got a great release and his work ethic is second to none as he's the hardest working player on the ice most nights. Teams still may balk at his 5'8" 162 pound body but playing almost a full season in the hard hitting "Dub" should prove some scouts wrong. The only doubt could be that this could have been a one season wonder as his previous point total tops out at 12.

Jonathan Parker
5'11" - 192 lbs - RW - Prince Albert Raiders - WHL
Another Western Hockey League player to shoot on to the scene with an amazing season. Jonathan Parker isn't the most physical player in the Wild West but can hold his own. His offensive break out this season with 86 points in 71 games in a defensively stifling league. His 45 goals is what many scouts are talking about and could make his a high reward risk at an NHL camp this fall.

Myles Bell
6'0" - 212 lbs - D - Regina Pats - WHL
After an unfortunate car accident this April which put Myles Bell the driver of the vehicle in the hospital and killed a close female companion Myle Bell slipped off many NHL teams radar as rumors began to spiral about what lasting physical and mental effects could be lingering. The uncertainty caused Bell to drop off the map from his once high ranking of 39th by the NHL's Central Scouting Agency. The injuries appear to be minor and many close to the player say he's ready to play this season it may be hard to overlook him again as he has a lethal shot from the point and managed to produce from the backend with 45 points in 66 games in a tough low scoring WHL.

Shawn Hunwick
5'7" - 166 lbs - G - University Of Michigan - NCAA
The little brother of defenseman Matt Hunwick has had a fairy tale University career and has risen from the bottom of the barrel to the top of the NCAA. Most teams automatically write off Hunwick due to his unorthodox style and his extremely small stature but the Sterling Heights native has proved many critics wrong with his stellar play. It would be shocking if he didn't at least earn himself an invite this fall with his 2.21 GAA and 22 wins. He single handed stole half a dozen games for Michigan U. It was rumored at the end of last season over 6 teams were scouting him including the Michigan native Detroit Red Wings but Hunwick decided to return to school for one last year.

Jakub Stepanek
6'1" - 156 lbs - G - St. Petersburg SKA - KHL
The young Czech netminder eluded the draft and quietly earned a name for himself in Europe the past few seasons. The 25 year old put himself on the map playing for Vitkovice HC of the Czech Extraliga then moved on to better compeition in the KHL with St. Petersburg SKA and never looked back. The rangy goaltender managed to record the best numbers of his career and was among the top 5 goaltenders in the league. His 2.05 GAA speaks for itself. The only issue with Stepanek is prying him from the KHL as he still is under contract this season but the good news is there is a rough...really rough agreement between the NHL and the KHL so a transfer may be possible if a team is interested in giving him a chance.

Benjamin Conz
5'10" - 198 lbs - G - HC Lugano - NLA
Benjamin Conz went undrafted in 2010 mainly due to his collapse in the 2009 U-18 tournament but quickly gained hockey fame during the 2010 World Juniors especially on the online circuit as he robbed Russian sniper Nikita Filatov. Conz was once rated the 5th best international goalie by NHL's Central Scouting only to be passed up two years in a row. Many knock Conz unorthodox style combined with his small stature but the young Swiss goaltender has shown potential as he has shown the ability to face an ungodly workload and may have been over shadowed by playing on a week Swiss squad. Rumors have






Ice Scoopz: Monday Noon

Having some technical difficulties this morning with posating. Hopefully I'll be able to post this evening as Ice Scoopz: Best Of The Rest Free Agents is ready to go as promised.

Not much on the news front this morning but there is a few quick ones to announce.

*-> The New Jersey Devils have signed a slew of players to play on the farm. Maxime Clermont, Peter Harrold and Stephane Veilleux as previous mentioned on Ice Scoopz last week have been formally announced while Matt Anderson, Bryan Haczyk, Brad Mills, Nathan Perkovich, Tim Sestito, Myles Stoesz, Joseph Whitney, Chad Wiseman and Steve Zalewski have all also been signed.

*-> The Pittsburgh Penguins have invited Daniil Tarasov to attend their training camp.

*-> Two McGill defenseman were invited to NHL camps yesterday. Nicolas Therrien will attend the St. Louis Blue camp while Marc-André Dorion will attend the Phoenix camp.

*-> This Weekend Chris Drury has announced his official retirement.

*-> Also Saturday the Los Angeles Kings have signed veteran Ethan Moreau formerly of the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 1 year deal.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Friday Morning

A quiet birthday morning on this sunny Friday, not much news or rumors on the go but a handful of noteworthy new flashes.

*-> The Detroit Red wings have invited Erie Otter goaltender Ramis Sadikov to their training camp this fall.

While on training camp invites I'll have my top 10 possible training camp invitees posted by the end of this weekend along with a summary of the remaing free agents on the market looking for work.

*-> Former Carolina Hurricane Casey Borer has signed a 1 year deal with HC Paradubice of the Czech Extraliga.

*->

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Late Night

A little late night news for all of you still up.

*-> Michael Nylander is attempting to rejoin the NHL once again by attending the Philadelphia Flyer training camp this September in attempt to play his way back to the big leagues. Last season Nylander player for the Rochester Americans.

*-> Brett Lebda was officially bought out by the Nashville Predators it's being rumored.

*-> Alexei Yashin's agent Mark Gandler has said that his client is taking his time deciding his future. The rumor has up to 2 NHL teams interested in Yashin with the New York Islanders being the known team. Up to 5 KHL teams has put in major bids for the Russian star but it's said he would like to follow Jagr and give it one last chance.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Morning

*-> Former Montreal Canadien and Colorado Avalanche David Aebischer is attempting an NHL comeback sources have said. It's reported that the netminder has been contacted by the Winnipeg Jets about a possible training camp invitations.

*-> Igor Makarov from the Rockford Ice Hogs has reportedly told Blackhawk management he wishes to be loaned to the KHL if he doesn't crack the Hawk roster. SKA St. Petersberg is reportedly interested.

*-> Jon Sim has joined HC Paradubice of the Czech Extraliga leaving Gotteron of the Swiss league.

*-> A crazy rumour has broken the past few days involving retired NHLer Paul Kariya. Many are saying Kariya is contemplating an offer from the Nikko Icebucks of the Asian Hockey League. Kariya retired this off season but reportedly has been pondering playing low level hockey to help boost the game in Asia due to his background. I feel it's a long shot but who knows.

*-> While on Asian hockey former Pittsburgh Penguin Ric Jackman left the Czech Extraliga and headed to Asia to play for Anyang Halla.

*-> A rumor broke last week in the OHL with Soo Greyhounds star Dan Catenacci after he reportedly demanded a trade. The Niagra Ice Dogs have high interest in the player and a deal concerning Niagra Ice Dog 1st round draft pick Adam Bateman.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Free Agent Friday Competition Winner

The winner of the 2011 Free Agent Friday Contest is........DWYZ with a total of 123 points out of a possible 750 points. This year was a way harder year than last year to predict and you managed to nail some almost impossible ones so great job. Hopefully next year you'll have some more competition. DWYZ thanks again for participating and e-mail me at ice_scoopz@bell.blackberry.net to obtain your gift card. Congratulations!

Here's the final score sheet...

CENTERS Score = 20/150
1. Brad Richards - Dallas Stars (5 pts)
- Toronto
- NY Rangers
- Montreal

2. Michael Nylander - Washington Capitals (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- Europe
-
-

3. Tim Connolly - Buffalo Sabres (5 pts)
- NY Rangers
- Toronto
- CBJ

4. Jason Arnott - Washington Capitals (0 pts St. Louis)
- LA
- BUF
- WASH

5. Michael Handzus - Los Angeles Kings (0 pts San Jose)
- Europe
-
-

6. Tomas Fleischmann - Colorado Avalanche (0 pts Florida)
- Montreal
- LA
- CBJ

7. Vaclav Prospal - New York Rangers (0 pts Columbus)
- NYR
- BUF
- TBAY

8. Petr Prucha - Phoenix Coyotes (0 pts KHL)
- LA
- CBJ
- Buf

9. Marcel Goc - Nashville Predators (0 pts Florida)
- Europe
-
-

10. Chris Higgins - Vancouver Canucks (0 pts Vancouver)
- Calgary
- Montreal
- LA

11. Eric Belanger - Phoenix Coyotes (0 pts Edmonton)
- STL
- LA
- Jets

12. Brendan Morrison - Calgary Flames (10 pts)
- Calgary
- Van
- Jets

13. Max Talbot - Pittsburgh Penguins (0 pts Philly)
- Pens
- MTL
- CBJ

14. Chris Drury - New York Rangers (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- Buf
- Wsh
- LA

15. Jeff Halpern - Montreal Canadiens (0 pts Washington)
-
-
-

RIGHT WINGERS Score = 40/150

1. Teemu Selanne - Anaheim Ducks (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- ANH
- Jets
- Retires

2. Alexei Kovalev - Pittsburgh Penguins (10 pts)
- Europe
- Reires
- Montreal

3. Michael Ryder - Boston Bruins (0 pts Dallas)
- Boston
- MTL
- Jets

4. Radim Vrbata - Phoenix Coyotes (5 pts)
- CBJ
- Phx
- LA

5. Scottie Upshall - Columbus Blue Jackets (0 pts Florida)
- Toronto
- NYI
- Jets

6. Jamie Langenbrunner - Dallas Stars (0 pts St. Louis)
- Toronto
- NYR
-NJ

7. Tyler Kennedy - Pittsburgh Penguins (10 pts)
- Pens
- Avs
- Calgary

8. Joel Ward - Nashville Predators (0 pts Washington)
- Calgary
- NYR
- Toronto

9. Jaromir Jagr - Avangard OMSK KHL (0 pts Philly)
- Pens
- Detroit
- Montreal

10. Steve Sullivan - Nashville Predators (0 pts Pittsburgh)
- preds
- flames
- blues

11. Matt D'Agostini - St. Louis Blues (5 pts)
- habs
- stl
- col

12. Niclas Bergfors - Florida Panthers (0 pts Nashville)
- panthers
- jets
- nyr

13. Antti Miettinen - Minnesota Wild (10 pts)
- Europe
-
-

14. J.P Dumont - Nashville Predators (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- buf
- flames
- nyr

15. Radek Dvorak - Winnipeg Jets (0 pts Dallas)
- Europe
-
-


LEFT WINGERS Score 1/150

1. Cory Stillman - Florida Panthers (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- FLA
- NYR
- Buf

2. Erik Cole - Carolina Hurricanes (0 pts Montreal)
- canes
- fames
- NYr

3. Simon Gagne - Tampa Bay Lightning (0 pts Los Angeles)
- NYR
- Leafs
- Tbay

4. Alexei Ponikarovsky - Los Angeles Kings (0 pts Carolina)
- CBJ
- Avs
- LA

5. Sergei Samsonov - Florida Panthers (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- Canes
- MTL
- NYR

6. Marco Sturm - Washington Capitals (0 pts Vancouver)
- Bos
- StL
- Wsh

7. Nikolai Zherdev - Philadelphia Flyers (0 pts KHL)
- CBJ
- MTL
- Col

8. Ville Leino - Philadelphia Flyers (0 pts Buffalo)
- Leafs
- Mtl
- Tbay

9. Sean Bergenheim - Tampa Bay Lightning (0 pts Florida)
- tbay
- van
- flames

10. Andrew Brunette - Minnesota Wild (0 pts Chicago)
- Mtl
- retires
- jets

11. Raffi Torres - Vancouver Canucks (0 pts Phoenix)
- Jets
- Fla
- cbj

12. Ruslan Fedotenko - New York Rangers (1 pts)
- europe
- tbay
- nyr

13. Daniel Carcillo - Philadelphia Flyers (0 pts Chicago)
- Flyers
- col
- cbj

14. Jarrko Ruutu - Anaheim Ducks (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- ott
- stl
- ducks

15. Benoit Pouliot - Montreal Canadiens (0 pts Boston)
- habs
- min
- jets

DEFENSEMEN Score = 31/150

1. James Wisniewski - Columbus Blue Jackets (10 pts)
- cbj
- buf
- fla

2. Tomas Kaberle - Boston Bruins (0 pts Carolina)
- bos
- fla
- nyi

3. Ian White - San Jose Sharks (0 pts Detroit)
- edm
- nyi
- fla

4. Joni Pitkanen - Carolina Hurricanes (0 pts Carolina)
- buf
- nyi
- fla

5. Ed Jovanovski - Phoenix Coyotes (10 pts)
- FLA
- CBJ
- NYI

6. Bryan McCabe - New York Rangers (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- NYI
- EDM
- FLA

7. Roman Hamrlik - Montreal Canadiens (0 pts Washington)
- Europe
- MTL
- NYI

8. Anton Babchuk - Calgary Flames (1 pts)
- CAR
- CBJ
- CGY

9. Sami Salo - Vancouver Canucks (0 pts Vancouver)
- NYI
- EDM
- JETS

10. Craig Rivet - Buffalo Sabres (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- JETS
- NYI
- MTL

11. Jan Hejda - Columbus Blue Jackets (0 pts Colorado)
- CBJ
- FLA
- NYI

12. Sheldon Souray - Edmonton Oilers (0 pts Dallas)
- NYR
- NYI
- BUF

13. Ruslan Salei - Detroit Red Wings (10 pts)
- Europe
- DET
- CGY

14. Radek Martinek - New York Islanders (0 pts Columbus)
- NYI
- Europe
- NJ

15. Andy Greene - New Jersey Devils (0 pts New Jersey)
- MTL
- COL
- BOS

GOALTENDERS Score = 31/150

1. Johan Hedberg - New Jersey Devils (10 pts)
- NJ
- Europe
- MTL

2. Tomas Vokoun - Florida Panthers (0 pts Washington)
- FLA
- NYI
- EDM

3. Marty Turco - Chicago Blackhawks (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- Toronto
- MTL
- EDM

4. Josh Harding - Minnesota Wild (1 pts)
- EDM
- TBAY
- MIN

5. Brian Boucher - Philadelphia Flyers (0 pts Carolina)
- Europe
- ANA
- Jets

6. Mike Smith - Tampa Bay Lightning (0 pts Phoenix)
- DAL
- TBY
- EDM

7. Mathieu Garon - Columbus Blue Jackets (0 pts Tampa Bay)
- MTL
- CBJ
- Leafs

8. Ty Conklin - St. Louis Blues (10 pts)
- DET
- STL
- MON

9. Alex Auld - Montreal Canadiens (0 pts Ottawa)
- Mon
- Jets
- NYI

10. Jean-Sebastien Giguere - Toronto Maple Leafs (0 pts Colorado)
- ANA
- MTL
- TOR

11. Jose Theodore - Minnesota Wild (0 pts Florida)
- MTL
- WSH
- MIn

12. Ray Emery - Anaheim Ducks (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- NYR
- EDM
- NYI

13. Peter Budaj - Colorado Avalanche (0 pts Montreal)
- Europe
-
-

14. Pascal Leclaire - Ottawa Senators (0 pts Still Unsigned)
- Montreal
- BUf
- ANA

15. Patrick Lalime - Buffalo Sabres (10 pts)
- Retires
-
-

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Late Afternoon

*-> Annti Miettinen formerly of the Minnesota Wild has signed a 2 year deal to play in the KHL next season with AK Bars Kazan.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Monday Afternoon

A few minor notes for the afternoon

*-> The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenseman Jeff Woywitka to a 1 year deal on a two way contract.

*-> Once highly touted European free agent Fabian Brunnstrom has been invited to the Detroit Red Wings training camp.

*-> Nils Ekman has officially retired from hockey today.

*-> Kip Brennan of the Allen Americans and Matt Dalton of the Providence Bruins have both signed one year deals with Vityaz Chekhov of the KHL.

*-> Nick Tarnasky of the Springfield Americans has also been reportedly offered a deal by Vityaz Chekhov as well today.

*-> Former Columbus Blue Jacket Anton Strahlman has been fielding offers from several Swedish Elite League teams this past off season.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Morning

Hope everyone had a great weekend, I didn't get to enjoy much of it as I was busy at work. Lots of work for the new site which if all goes as planned should be premiering before training camps open. I'll have a post later this week about the new site and some new contests for the new season and no I haven't forgotten to announce the winner of the Free Agent Friday contest as I figure the winner knows he won as he was the only one who particpated haha. I've announce that tomorrow along with their final score. Lots going on despite the slow offseason news and rumors. Here's what we missed this weekend.

*-> Friday afternoon former Ottawa Senator Brendan Bell signed a 1 year one way deal with the New York Rangers.

*-> After freshly signing a deal with the Ottawa Senators defenseman Lee Sweatt announced his retirement from hockey and will persue a career in Finance.

*-> Another former Ottawa Senator puck moving defenseman has decided to ply his trade somewhere else as Andre Benoit heads back to Europe to play for Spartak Moscow of the KHL.

*-> Janne Pesonen has left Ak Bars Kazan of the KHL to join the Winnipeg Jets.

*-> Maxime Clermont of the Gatineau Olympiques has signewd a 3 year entry level deal with the New Jersey Devils.

*-> Former Los Angeles King Peter Harold has also signed on with the Jersey Devils.

*-> Shut down defenseman Scott Hannan has signed a 1 year deal worth 1 million dollars with the Calgary Flames.



Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Noon

A few signings yesterday around the league to note.

*-> The Nashville Predators have signed Jack Hillen to a 1 year two way deal worth 600K$.

*-> Danny Syvret has signed a 1 year deal with the St. Louis Blues.

*-> The Texas Stars have lost Sean Backman to the New York Islanders.

*-> Dalton Smith of the Ottawa 67's has signed a 3 year entry level deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

*-> Rumors have defenseman Brett Lebda of the Nashville Predators being shopped around the league by the Preds.

*-> Free agent Jarkko Ruutu has an offer on the table from the Jokerit of the Sm Liiga.

*-> From what I'm hearing Pascal Leclaire could be the next Senator goalie to be heading to the KHL.

*-> Former Senator Chris Campoli has 3 offers on the table from several NHL teams. The Dallas Stars are rumored to be interested.

*-> Robbie Earl has signed a deal with Dinamo Riga leaving the Houston Aeros.

*-> Dan Dasilva formerly of the Worchester Sharks has signed with Lev Poprad of the KHL.

*-> Branko Radivojevic has signed a deal with Atlant Mytishchi leaving Spartak Moscow.

*-> Ludvig Rensfeldt has signed a CHL level deal to play with the Sarnia Sting.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Afternoon

*-> The Vancouver Canucks have signed two veteran NHLers to try-out contracts this afternoon. Owen Nolan who played last season for ZSC, and Todd Fedoruk who was a free agent will attempt to earn a roster spot this fall during the Canucks training camp and exhibition.

*-> The Sarnia Stings Connor Murphy has signed a 3 year entry level deal with the Phoenix Coyotes today.

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Morning

A few signings to report from yesterday afternoon and a few new rumors and signing to start this sunny Thursday morning.

*-> Yesterday the San Jose Sharks quickly circled in on freshly released defenseman Colin White. The Sharks signed the blueliner to a deal reportedly worth 1$ million for 1 year.

*-> The Blackhawks have signed two way forward Patrick Sharp to a 5 year deal worth 5.9$ million per season or 29.5$ million overall.

*-> Chad Johnson has resigned with the New York Rangers.

*-> The New York Islanders have resigned Blake Comeau to a one year deal.

*-> Joe Morrow of the Portland Winterhawks has been signed to a 3 year entry level deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

*-> Forward Jake Marto of the University of North Dakota has signed a 3 year entry level deal with the Winnipeg Jets (man that still feels weird typing that..)

*-> The Ottawa Senators has resigned Kaspars Daugavins to a one year two-way contract. It's yet to be seen if Daugavins will report to Bingo after he signed a deal with Dynamo Riga earlier this offseason.

*-> The enigmatic Nikolai Zherdev has officially signed in the KHL with Atlant Mytishchi of the KHL after Ice Scoopz broke this rumor last week.

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*-> This morning the Phoenix Coyotes have signed the incosistent Patrick O'Sullivan to a 1 year deal.

*-> Rugged defenseman Danil Markov has signed a deal with Alexei Zhamnov's Vityaz Chekhov of the KHL leaving behind SKA St. Petersburg.

*-> Johan Fransson has also left SKA St. Petersburg to play back home in Sweden for Lulea of the SEL.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Evening

*-> Nashville Predator defenseman Shea Weber has been awaerded the NHL's largest arbitration settlement in league history today as Weber is set to make 7.5$ million next season. The Preds were only reportedly offering 4.75$ million while the Weber camp was asking 8.5$ million.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Monday Afternoon

*-> This morning the San Jose Sharks signed recently acquired Brent Burns to a 5 year 28 million$ deal solidifing the Sharks blueline.

*-> In a strange move by the Devils, New Jersey has waived both Colin White and the recently acquired Trent Hunter for the purpose of buying out both players. Reports have White being informed of being bought out since the end of last season.

*-> The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed 2011 draft pick David Broll of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds TSN has reported. Broll was drafted 152nd overall.

*-> Rumors have former Ottawa 67 Julien Talbot talking contract with Eisbären Berlin of the DEL.

Friday, July 29, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Friday Noon

A couple of KHL signings to announce along with a few minor signings as well.

*-> It appears the enigmatic Russian Alexei Kovalev has found himself a new home. Rumors are spiralling out of Russia saying that Kovalev has signed with Alant Mytishchi of the KHL. It's still not 100% but I'm hearing from multiple KHL sources it is indeed a done deal and will be announced shortly.

*-> Another NHLer has left for the KHL as well today as Brent Sopel formerly of the Montreal Canadiens has taken off to play overseas with Metallurg Novokuznetsk.

*-> Mike Danton has also found himself a team for the upcoming season as the troubled forward signed on with IFK Ore of Division One in Sweden.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Evening

A late flurry this afternoon/evening

*-> The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Tyler Sloan to a deal, the terms have yet to be released but it's rumored to be a one year around 850k.

*-> The Vancouver Canucks avoided arbitration today as they inked Jannik Hansen to a 3 year deal worth 4$ million overall.

*-> The Colorado Avalanche have signed 2011 first round draft picks Gabriel Landeskog and Duncan Siemens to entry level deals.

Trade! New York Islanders -> New Jersey

*-> The New York islanders have traded Trent Hunter to the New Jersey Devils for veteran Brian Rolston.

Strange move for the Islanders as they could have had Rolston virtually for free but yet Hunter was in the mix. The motive was right trying to get a veteran presence in their lineup but the prie was wrong in my books.

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Noon

A couple of signings to announce for this morning,

*-> Sugar Ray Emery has signed a deal with the Chicago Blackhawks but I'm hearing it's on a tryout basis but the Hawks will retain his rights till Oct 1st unless they decide to cut him.

*-> The New York Rangers have come to terms with assistant captain Ryan Callahan this morning as well the deal is worth 12.8$ million over 3 year years.

*-> Nikolai Zherdev is in talks with the Winnipeg Jets, Zherdev was brought back briefly to the NHL by the Atlanta Thrashers once upon a time remember.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Noon

Not much happening this afternoon a couple of quick ones for you guys:

*-> Brad Winchester is close to signing with the Vancouver Canucks from what I'm hearing around the net.

*-> A rumor out of the OHL has Toronto draft pick Tyler Biggs leaving the University of Miami (OHIO) to play in the OHL for the Oshawa Generals.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Morning

*-> Yesterday afternoon the Nashville Predators signed prospect Craig Smith from the University of Wisconsin.

*-> The Pittsburgh Penguins also signed two players yesterday. The Penguins signed defenseman Scott Harrington of the London Knights to a 3 year entry level deal and also added former Dallas Star Jason Williams.

*-> The Phoenix Coyotes signed goaltender Justin Pogge this morning.

*-> The New Jersey Devils have resigned Matt Taormina and Mark Fraser.

*-> The Detroit Red Wings have resigned Farncois Pare to a new deal.

*-> Stu Bickell has been resigned by the Blue Shirts keeping him in the Big Apple.

*-> Marcel Hossa has officially signed with Spartak Moscow leaving behind last years team Ak Bars keeping him in the KHL. The deal is rumored to be a 2 year "major money" contract many Russian sources are saying.

*-> Former Ottawa Senator Martin Prusek has called it a career this morning.

*-> Rumors has Jarkko Ruutu considering an offer from the Finnish Elite League team HIFK.

*-> Alexei Yashin reportedly has a 2nd NHL team interested in his services while his agent reports multiple KHL teams are still pushing hard to keep the veteran Russian in the motherland.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Morning

A brief flurry of activity yesterday afternoon and this morning as the off season begins to slow to a crawl.

*-> Yesterday afternoon Jassen Cullimore formerly of the Chicago Blackhawks signed a deal with the DEL club the Iserlohn Roosters.

*-> Bridgeport Sound tough guy Jeremy Yablonski has been recruited by Alexei Zhamnov's gritty KHL squad Vityaz Chekhov to a one year deal.

*-> Jon Mirasty of the Syracuse Crunch has also signed a 1 year deal with Vityaz Chekhov.

*-> KHL veteran Maxim Sushinsky is close to signing a deal with OHk Dynamo Moscow it's rumored while fellow former SKA St. Petersburg teamate Alexei Yashin is still pondering his offer from Long Island it's said. Rumors now have the enigmatic Russian looking around the league for more interest.

*-> Kris Draper of the Detroit Red Wings is expected to announce his retirement this morning at a Red wing press conference.

*-> Byron Bitz has signed a deal with the Vancouver Canucks leaving behind him the Florida Panthers.

*-> Russian prospect Ivan Telegin of the Barrie Colts has signed a 3 year Entry Level deal with the Winnipeg Jets.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Ice Scoopz: 2011 Free Agent Friday Competition

Here is this years version of the Ice Scoopz free agent frenzy competition. It's the same format as last years. We've chosen 15 of the top free agents for each position and below each free agent there are 3 slots. You pick the top 3 teams or retirement or Europe for each player. The top slot being number 1 and second slot being number two choice etc. If you get the top slot it's worth 5 points. The second slot is worth 3 and the third is worth 1. If you guess wrong it's zero. To participate you must have your picks in before 11am tomorrow morning (July 1st). Please post your picks in the comment field below and once it is posted it's final. The winner shall receive a 25$ gift card to Montana's Canada. Good luck guys.

CENTERS

1. Brad Richards - Dallas Stars
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2. Michael Nylander - Washington Capitals
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3. Tim Connolly - Buffalo Sabres
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4. Jason Arnott - Washington Capitals
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5. Michael Handzus - Los Angeles Kings
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6. Tomas Fleischmann - Colorado Avalanche
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7. Vaclav Prospal - New York Rangers
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8. Petr Prucha - Phoenix Coyotes
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9. Marcel Goc - Nashville Predators
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10. Chris Higgins - Vancouver Canucks
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11. Eric Belanger - Phoenix Coyotes
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12. Brendan Morrison - Calgary Flames
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13. Max Talbot - Pittsburgh Penguins
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14. Chris Drury - New York Rangers
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15. Jeff Halpern - Montreal Canadiens
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RIGHT WINGERS

1. Teemu Selanne - Anaheim Ducks
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2. Alexei Kovalev - Pittsburgh Penguins
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3. Michael Ryder - Boston Bruins
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4. Radim Vrbata - Phoenix Coyotes
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5. Scottie Upshall - Columbus Blue Jackets
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6. Jamie Langenbrunner - Dallas Stars
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7. Tyler Kennedy - Pittsburgh Penguins
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8. Joel Ward - Nashville Predators
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9. Jaromir Jagr - Avangard OMSK KHL
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10. Steve Sullivan - Nashville Predators
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11. Matt D'Agostini - St. Louis Blues
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12. Niclas Bergfors - Florida Panthers
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13. Antti Miettinen - Minnesota Wild
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14. J.P Dumont - Nashville Predators
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15. Radek Dvorak - Winnipeg Jets
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LEFT WINGERS

1. Cory Stillman - Florida Panthers
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2. Erik Cole - Carolina Hurricanes
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3. Simon Gagne - Tampa Bay Lightning
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4. Alexei Ponikarovsky - Los Angeles Kings
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5. Sergei Samsonov - Florida Panthers
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6. Marco Sturm - Washington Capitals
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7. Nikolai Zherdev - Philadelphia Flyers
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8. Ville Leino - Philadelphia Flyers
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9. Sean Bergenheim - Tampa Bay Lightning
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10. Andrew Brunette - Minnesota Wild
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11. Raffi Torres - Vancouver Canucks
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12. Ruslan Fedotenko - New York Rangers
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13. Daniel Carcillo - Philadelphia Flyers
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14. Jarrko Ruutu - Anaheim Ducks
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15. Benoit Pouliot - Montreal Canadiens
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DEFENSEMEN

1. James Wisniewski - Columbus Blue Jackets
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2. Tomas Kaberle - Boston Bruins
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3. Ian White - San Jose Sharks
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4. Joni Pitkanen - Carolina Hurricanes
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5. Ed Jovanovski - Phoenix Coyotes
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6. Bryan McCabe - New York Rangers
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7. Roman Hamrlik - Montreal Canadiens
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8. Anton Babchuk - Calgary Flames
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9. Sami Salo - Vancouver Canucks
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10. Craig Rivet - Buffalo Sabres
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11. Jan Hejda - Columbus Blue Jackets
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12. Sheldon Souray - Edmonton Oilers
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13. Ruslan Salei - Detroit Red Wings
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14. Radek Martinek - New York Islanders
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15. Andy Greene - New Jersey Devils
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GOALTENDERS

1. Johan Hedberg - New Jersey Devils
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2. Tomas Vokoun - Florida Panthers
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3. Marty Turco - Chicago Blackhawks
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4. Josh Harding - Minnesota Wild
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5. Brian Boucher - Philadelphia Flyers
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6. Mike Smith - Tampa Bay Lightning
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7. Mathieu Garon - Columbus Blue Jackets
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8. Ty Conklin - St. Louis Blues
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9. Alex Auld - Montreal Canadiens
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10. Jean-Sebastien Giguere - Toronto Maple Leafs
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11. Jose Theodore - Minnesota Wild
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12. Ray Emery - Anaheim Ducks
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13. Peter Budaj - Colorado Avalanche
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14. Pascal Leclaire - Ottawa Senators
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15. Patrick Lalime - Buffalo Sabres
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Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Morning

*-> The Washington Capitals have signed Brooks Laich to a 6 year deal worth 27 million overall. Laich was set to become a UFA this Friday.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Ice Scoopz: 2nd Round 2011 NHL Entry Draft

Here's a summary of round 2 of the 2011 Entry Draft of the Canadian teams.

31. Edmonton Oilers - David Musil D - Vancouver WHL
45. Calgary Flames - Markus Granlund C - Hifk jrs Sm Liiga
57. Calgary Flames - Tyler Wotherspoon D - Portland WHL
61. Ottawa Senators - Shane Prince C - Ottawa OHL

I'm really liking a few picks this round the Shane Prince to Ottawa is a steal that late in my opinion and wins the round for the Canadian teams. I also love the Bruins picking Alexander Khokhlachev as I think he could be a gem of this draft after watching him in Windsor. Tomas Jurco also could be a solid pick by the Detroit Red Wings.

Trade! Ottawa -> Columbus

*-> The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded enigmatic Russian prospect Nikita Filatov to the Ottawa Senators for their 3rd round draft pick in this years draft.

Trade! Calgary -> Buffalo

*-> The Buffalo Sabres have acquired Robyn Regehr, Ales Kotalik and a 2012 2nd round draft pick from the Calgary Flames for Ottawa native Paul Byron and Chris Butler.

*-> The Calgary Flames also signed Alex Tanguay to a 5 year extension.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Ice Scoopz: 2011NHL Entry Draft Predictions

#1. Edmonton Oilers - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins - C - Red Deer Rebels - WHL
ISS = 1
CS = NA 1
HN = 1
TSN = 1

#2. Colorado Avalanche - Jonathan Huberdeau - C/LW - Saint John Sea Dogs - QMJHL
ISS = 3
CS = NA 3
HN = 5
TSN = 3

#3. Florida Panthers - Adam Larsson - RD - Skelleftea - SEL
ISS = 2
CS = EUR 1
HN = 2
TSN = 2

#4. New Jersey Devils - Gabriel Landeskog - LW - Kitchener Rangers - OHL
ISS = 5
CS = NA 2
HN = 3
TSN = 4

#5. New York Islanders - Douglas Hamilton - RD - Niagra Ice Dogs - OHL
ISS = 6
CS = NA 4
HN = 10
TSN = 6

#6. Ottawa Senators - Ryan Strome - C - Niagra Ice Dogs - OHL
ISS = 9
CS = NA 8
HN = 6
TSN = 7

#7. Winnipeg Jets - Sean Couturier - C - Drummondville Voltigeurs - QMJHL
ISS = 4
CS = NA 6
HN = 4
TSN = 5

#8. Philadelphia Flyers (Columbus Blue Jackets) - Mika Zibanejad - C - Djurgarden - SEL
ISS = 7
CS = EUR 2
HN = 11
TSN = 9

#9. Boston Bruins - Ryan Murphy - RD - Kitchener Rangers - OHL
ISS = 8
CS = NA 9
HN = 7
TSN = 8

#10. Minnesota Wild - Joel Armia - RW - Assat - SMLiiga
ISS = 13
CS = EUR 4
HN = 15
TSN = 14

#11. Colorado Avalanche (St. Louis Blues) - Duncan Siemens - LD - Saskatoon Blakes - WHL
ISS = 12
CS = NA 10
HN = 12
TSN = 13

#12. Carolina Hurricanes - Brandon Saad - LW - Saginaw Spirit - OHL
ISS = 24
CS = NA 19
HN = 14
TSN = 22

#13. Calgary Flames - Oscar Klefbom - LD - Farjestad - SEL
ISS = 10
CS = EUR 6
HN = 37
TSN = 21

#14. Dallas Stars - Sven Bartschi - LW - Portland Winterhawks - WHL
ISS = 11
CS = NA 7
HN = 8
TSN = 16

#15. New York Rangers - Alexander Khokhlachev - LW/C - Windsor Spitfires - OHL
ISS = 23
CS = NA 29
HN = 13
TSN = 44

#16. Buffalo Sabres - Mark McNeill - Prince Albert Raiders - WHL
ISS = 21
CS = NA 14
HN = 16
TSN = 19

#17. Montreal Canadiens - Tyler Biggs - RW - USA U-18 - USHL
ISS = 31
CS = NA 22
HN = 20
TSN = 15

#18. Chicago Blackhawks - Rocco Grimaldi - C - USA U-18 - USHL
ISS = 15
CS = NA 32
HN = 32
TSN = 23

#19. Edmonton Oilers (Los Angeles Kings) - Jonas Brodin - LD - Farjestad - SEL
ISS = 20
CS = EUR 3
HN = 22
TSN = 10

#20. Phoenix Coyotes - Boone Jenner - C - Oshawa Generals - OHL
ISS = 38
CS = NA 18
HN = 40
TSN = 26

#21. Ottawa Senators (Nashville Predators) - Victor Rask - C - Leksand - SELjr
ISS = 26
CS = EUR 12
HN = 54
TSN = 40

#22. Anaheim Ducks - John Gibson - G - USA U-18 - USHL
ISS = G. 1
CS = NA G. 1
HN = 27
TSN = 37

#23. Pittsburgh Penguins - Jamie Oleksiad - LD - Northeastern - H-East
ISS = 16
CS = NA 13
HN = 17
TSN = 17

#24. Detroit Red Wings - David Musil - LD - Vancouver Giants - WHL
ISS = 27
CS = NA 38
HN = 23
TSN = 41

#25. Toronto Maple Leafs (Philadelphia Flyers) - Tomas Jurco - RW - Saint John Sea Dogs - QMJHL
ISS = 25
CS = NA 20
HN = 28
TSN = 29

#26. Washington Capitals - JT Miller - C - USA U-18 - USHL
ISS = 17
CS = NA 23
HN = 59
TSN = 18
* Two way player

#27. Tampa Bay Lightning - Nathien Beaulieu - LD - Saint John Sea Dogs - QMJHL
ISS = 14
CS = NA 5
HN = 18
TSN = 11

#28. San Jose Sharks - Connor Murphy - RD - USA U-18 - USHL
ISS = 19
CS = NA 25
HN = 55
TSN = 30

#29. Vancouver Canucks - Mathew Puempel - LW - Peterborough Petes - OHL
ISS = 29
CS = NA 28
HN = 21
TSN = 27

#30. Toronto Maple Leafs (Boston Bruins) - Joe Morrow - LD - Portland Winterhawks - WHL
ISS = 33
CS = NA 12
HN = 34
TSN = 20

Trade! Toronto -> Colorado

*-> The Colorado Avalanche have traded John-Michael Liles to the Toronto Maple Leafs for their 2nd round draft pick in 2012.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Trade! Los Angeles -> Philly

*-> The Flyers weren't done there as they dealt Mike Richards to the Los Angeles Kings for prospect Brayden Schenn and forward Wayne Simmonds. Must be something big in Philly right now. Expect Bryzgalov to be signed by days end.

Trade! Philly -> Columbus

*-> As mentioned last week on Ice Scoopz the Flyers have traded Jeff Carter to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Jakob Voracek, their 2011 first round draft pick and a 3rd rounder. It's official.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Evening

Draft, Draft, Draft the past few days, I've been finalizing my lists and watching a ton of tape to get my final analysis of this years first round.

On with the news.

*-> It was revealed Monday morning by the Ottawa Citizen that the Ottawa Senators were getting ready to announce that Detroit's assistant coach Paul MacLean will be the 9th coach in Ottawa Senators history Tuesday afternoon. Today that became reality as the Sens told the media MacLean would be there guy. Many are saying that the announcement of Dave Cameron as one of his assistants could also be in the works as owner Eugene Melnyk has been pushing Murray hard for Cameron's promotion.

Around the league many are saying that Paul MacLean was a surprise but the right choice. MacLean is a "players" coach who is known for being good in the dressing room with the veterans and the rookies while still maintaining control of the room. MacLean is a proven winner and has the experience the Sens are looking for as they look to rebuild and move forward.

*-> Many people have been e-mailing me asking for my thoughts on the Brad Richards situation in Dallas so here's what I think guys!. We all know Brad Richards leaving Dallas is official as Joey Newiendyk has told the world that the Stars cannot afford to keep Brad Richards. I expect the Dallas Stars will have a sit down with Richards sometime in the upcoming weeks before the draft and ask him for a list of teams he'd be willing to be dealt to (his rights) and the front runners will jump at the opportunity to get a head start at negotiations. I believe the Stars could fetch a high end prospect of player plus a conditional pick out of it. Newiendyk has stated that he is looking to replace Richards at center and will address the loss via trade so a lesser financially burdening already contracted player who plays center could be an option as well. We all know Brad is a heart a soul player and since he has a no trade clause he does control the teams he he could be dealt to; I have a feeling that where ever his rights do go he'll try to make it fit with the team and show loyalty, it's just who Brad Richards is. So who are the possible teams? Well we know the New York Rangers are extremely hot for Richards and have needed a player of his caliber to help turn the corner from being a boarder-line team to a playoff team. The pressure is on in the Big Apple to succeed and time could be running out for management as well as John Torterella's previous history with Richards. The Toronto Maple Leafs have been pushing for a long time to bring in that big name center to help carry them back into the post season but however Richards has shown hesitance in the past towards T.O so they could be on the outside looking in. The Columbus Blue Jackets have been looking at getting Rick Nash some help up the middle for ages and Richards could be there guy. Tampa Bay could also be in the mix according to rumors but it's still murky, I'm hearing that the Bolts do not have interest unless they can Steve Stamkos gets moved to the wing which isn't likely. Another team I've heard whispers out of is the Calgary Flames as they are looking to help Jarome Iginla out but it would take a major move or two to clear up the cap space. Finally at deadline day I did hear whispers that the Montreal Canadiens had did a bit of fishing in Dallas before but the Stars weren't ready to part with Richards. He could be a good fit for a Montreal team with a lot of payroll turnover this summer and the need for some high end skill but it's expected they will continue on with the Scott Gomez saga unless he is buried. So my final thoughts on the ricahrds debate is I think that the Rangers will throw everything at this and could possibly be the next home for Richards as they make the most sense at the current time.

*-> While on the Rangers, recent rumors have revealed that Glen Sather is very close to buying out underachieving and down right expensive Chris Drury. The Rangers are looking to shed cap hard to clear up space from that premier pivot and their key restricted free agents. They also are rumored to be interested in buying out Wojtek Wolski but I personally feel they'll attempt a trade before a buyout as many still believe Wolski can put up numbers if given the right situation.

*-> Also it sorta relates to the whole Brad Richards situation, the Columbus Blue Jackets are highly interested in Jeff Carter of the Broadstreet Bullies. The rumor has recently resurfaced as the Flyers are expected to clear some cap space in order to sign the recently acquired Ilya Bryzgalov and free agent Ville Leino. Carter has been a frequent fixture in the rumor mill as he remains one of the few shop-able Flyers without a no trade clause. Jakob Voracek and the 8th overall have reportedly been offered by Columbus around the league for that centerpiece to compliment Rick Nash.

*-> Lugano is rumored to be courting Ryan Potulny of the Ottawa Senators for next season.

*-> The Toronto Maple Leafs have resigned Carl Gunnarsson to a 2 year deal this morning.

*-> The Montreal Canadiens have reportedly offered Dinamo Riga's Brock Trotter a one way deal with the Canadiens in order to bring him back home from the KHL.

*-> While on Riga, Kaspar Dauvagins of the Ottawa Senators have reportedly told Riga management that he is still 50/50 of whether or not he wants to sign with the KHL club. He has stated in the past if he doesn't get a roster spot he could be headed home to Latvia.

*-> Andrei Zubarov of the Atlanta Thrashers has gone back to the KHL as he has signed with Atlant Mytishchi citing the lack of opportunity in Atlanta has his main reasoning.

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Evening

*-> KHL team Viytaz Chekhov is looking to add some NHL grit to their line up for next season and rumors have the rugged Russian squad offering contracts to free agents Steve McIntyre of the Edmonton Oilers and Zenon Konopka of the New York Islanders.

*-> The Buffalo Sabres have signed Edmonton Oil King Mark Pysyk to a 3 year entry level deal.

*-> The New York Rangers have signed Blake Parlett.

*-> Brandon Burlon of the U of Michigan has signed a entry level deal with the New Jersey Devils.

*-> The Phoenix Coyotes were also busy at work today as they signed Louis Domingue (Quebec Remparts), Justin Weller (Red Deer Rebels), and Jordan Szwarz (Saginaw Spirit) all to entry level deals.

*-> A minor trade also occured today as the Washington Capitals traded a conditional 2013 draft pick to the Nashville Predators for left wing Taylor Stefishen.

*-> New York Islander prospect Kirill Petrov will not be coming over this season as he just signed a deal with Kazan of the KHL leaving behind his former club Yugra-Khanty.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Ice Scoopz: Unsigned Prospect Rights Expiring 5pm

For those who are wondering who else`s rights will be expiring today at 5pm, here`s a list of players whose rights will expire.

Special Thanks to Pucking PattyB for the list, you can check out his blog at http://puckingpattyb.blogspot.com/2011/05/list-of-prospect-rights-that-will.html.

Anaheim Ducks
Scott Valentine, D - 6th round, 166th overall (Oshawa, OHL)
Justin Vaive, LW - 4th round, 92nd overall 2007 (Miami University)

Boston Bruins
NONE

Buffalo Sabres
Maxime Legault, RW - 7th round, 194th overall (Portland, AHL)
Nick Eno, G - 7th round, 187th overall 2007 (Bowling Green)

Calgary Flames
Henrik Bjorklund, RW - 4th round, 111th overall (Rogle, Sweden)
Spencer Bennett, LW - 5th round, 141st overall (Vancouver, WHL)
Aaron Marvin, C - 3rd round, 89th overall 2006 (St. Cloud State)
C.J. Severyn, LW - 7th round, 186th overall 2007 (Ohio State University)

Carolina Hurricanes
NONE

Chicago Blackhawks
NONE

Colorado Avalanche
Brandon Maxwell, G - 6th round, 154th overall (Kitchener, OHL)

Columbus Blue Jackets
Kyle Neuber, RW - 7th round, 197th overall (Springfield, AHL)
Matt Rust, C - 4th round, 101st overall 2007 (University of Michigan)

Edmonton Oilers
Robby Dee, C - 3rd round, 86th overall 2005 (University of Maine)

Dallas Stars
NONE

Detroit Red Wings
Nick Oslund, RW - 7th round, 191st overall 2006 (St. Cloud State)
Bryan Rufenach, D - 7th round, 208th overall 2007 (Clarkson)

Florida Panthers
Josh Birkholz, RW - 3rd round, 67th overall (Everett, WHL)
Garrett Wilson, LW - 4th round, 107th overall (Owen Sound, OHL)
David Pacan, C - 6th round, 177th overall (Niagara, OHL)
Derrick LaPoint, D - 4th round, 116th overall 2006 (University of North Dakota)
Ryan Watson, LW - 7th round, 191st overall 2007 (Western Michigan University)

Los Angeles Kings
Michael Pelech, C - 6th round, 156th overall (Ontario, ECHL)
Garrett Roe, LW - 7th round, 183rd overall 2008 (St. Cloud State)
Josh Turnbull, C - 5th round, 137th overall 2007 (University of Wisconsin)

Minnesota Wild
Jere Sallinen, W - 6th round, 163rd overall (Blues, Finland)
Kyle Medvec, D - 4th round, 102nd overall 2006 (University of Vermont)

Montreal Canadiens
Petteri Simila, G - 7th round, 211th overall (KalPa, Finland)
Patrick Johnson, C - 7th round, 206th overall 2008 (University of Wisconsin)

Nashville Predators
Jeff Foss, D - 6th round, 166th overall 2008 (R.P.I)

New Jersey Devils
Ashton Bernard, LW - 6th round, 174th overall (Cape Breton, QMJHL)

New York Islanders
Brian Day, RW - 6th round, 171st overall 2007 (Colgate University)
Shane Sims, D - 5th round, 126th overall 2006 (Ohio State University)

New York Rangers
Daniel Maggio, D - 6th round, 170th overall (Oshawa, OHL)

Ottawa Senators
NONE

Philadelphia Flyers
Simon Bertilsson, D - 3rd round, 87th overall (Brynas, Sweden)
Adam Morrison, G - 3rd round, 81st overall (Saskatoon, WHL)
Nicola Riopel, G - 5th round, 142nd overall (Greenville, ECHL)
Dave Lebrecque, C - 6th round, 153rd overall (Shawinigan, QMJHL)

Phoenix Coyotes
Jordan Szwarz, RW - 4th round, 97th overall (Saginaw, OHL) SIGNED
Justin Weller, D - 4th round, 105th overall (Red Deer, WHL)
Evan Bloodoff, LW - 6th round, 157th overall (Kelowna, WHL)

Pittsburgh Penguins
Andy Bathgate, C - 5th round, 151st overall (Belleville, OHL)
Viktor Ekbom, D - 6th round, 181st overall (Linkoping, Sweden)

San Jose Sharks
Philip Varone, C - 5th round, 147th overall (Erie, OHL)
Patrick White, C - 1st round, 25th overall 2007(University of Minnesota)

St Louis Blues
Matthew McCollem, LW - 6th round, 154th overall 2006 (Harvard)
Andy Sackrison, C - 5th round, 124th overall 2006 (Minnesota State University Mankato)

Tampa Bay Lightning
Michael Zador, G - 5th round, 148th overall (Owen Sound, OHL)

Toronto Maple Leafs
Barron Smith, D - 7th round, 188th overall (Peterborough, OHL)
Ben Winnett, LW - 4th round, 104th overall 2007 (University of Michigan)

Vancouver Canucks
NONE

Washington Capitals
Phil DeSimone, C - 3rd round, 84th overall 2007 (University of New Hampshire)
Dan Dunn, G - 6th round, 154th overall 2007 (St. Cloud State)

Winnipeg Thrashers...
Cody Sol, D - 5th round, 125th overall (Kitchener, OHL)
Jimmy Bubnick, C - 6th round, 155th overall (Calgary, WHL)
Levko Koper, LW - 7th round, 185th overall (Spokane, WHL)
John Albert, C - 6th round, 175th overall 2007 (Ohio State University)
Alex Kangas, G - 5th round, 135th overall 2006 (University of Minnesota)
Jesse Martin, C - 7th round, 19th overall 2006 (University of Denver)