*-> Montreal has resigned Hamilton Bulldog captain Kyle Chipchura to a one year deal.
*-> Buffalo Sabres has signed defenseman Joe Dipienta to a 1 year deal.
*-> The Flames have added some toughness and a legitimate enforcer to their line up by adding Brian McGratton. The deal is rumored to be a 1year deal 450K$
Showing posts with label buffalo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label buffalo. Show all posts
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Free Agent Frenzy Signings
*-> Steve Montador has now signed in Buffalo for 2 years at 1.5$mil a season.
*-> Mike Knuble has officially ended his tenure in Philly and resumes his career in Washington with their young core. He is set to make 2.8$ Mil in the next 2 seasons.
*-> Scott Niedermayer has signed along the dotted line for yet another season with the Ducks. He will make 6$Mil for just one season and will start the process over next year.
*-> Aaron Rome was signed by the Vancouver Canucks for 550K for a year.
*-> Lukas Krajicek has resigned with the Tampa Bay Lightning for a year terms are still undisclosed.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Trade Catch-Up!
*->The Toronto Maple Leafs acquire injured goalie Olaf Kolzig, defenseman Jaime Heward, defenseman Andy Rogers, and a 4th round pick in exchange for prospect Richard Petiot from the Tampa Bay Lightning.
*->Carolina trades Justin Williams for a 2nd round pick and Patrick O'Sullivan from the Kings.
*-Edmonton trades Erik Cole back to the Carolina Hurricanes for forward Patrick O'Sullivan and a 2nd round draft pick.
*->Edmonton trades the 2nd round pick to Buffalo for Ales Kotalik.
*-> San Jose trades prospect Nick Bonino, goalie Timo Pielmeier, and a conditional draft pick to Anaheim for Travis Moen and defenseman Kent Huskins.
*-> Chicago trades defenseman James Wisniewski for Samuel Pahlsson from the Anaheim Ducks.
*-> Philly trades their 6th round draft pick to the San Jose Sharks for Kyle McLaren.
*-> Calgary trades goaltender Kevin Lalonde to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 4th round draft pick.
*->Tampa Bay trades Steve Eminger to the Florida Panthers for defenseman Noah Welch and a 3rd round.
*->Carolina trades Justin Williams for a 2nd round pick and Patrick O'Sullivan from the Kings.
*-Edmonton trades Erik Cole back to the Carolina Hurricanes for forward Patrick O'Sullivan and a 2nd round draft pick.
*->Edmonton trades the 2nd round pick to Buffalo for Ales Kotalik.
*-> San Jose trades prospect Nick Bonino, goalie Timo Pielmeier, and a conditional draft pick to Anaheim for Travis Moen and defenseman Kent Huskins.
*-> Chicago trades defenseman James Wisniewski for Samuel Pahlsson from the Anaheim Ducks.
*-> Philly trades their 6th round draft pick to the San Jose Sharks for Kyle McLaren.
*-> Calgary trades goaltender Kevin Lalonde to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 4th round draft pick.
*->Tampa Bay trades Steve Eminger to the Florida Panthers for defenseman Noah Welch and a 3rd round.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Ice Scoopz: Saturday Night *-> Guerin Gone In 48 Hours?
Well you can tell it's only days till the trading deadline! Every little sign or hint gets analyzed to the fullest and every name in the book gets mentioned. This is a scouts busiest time as they get to spend a frantic month watching potential trade players. I love the deadline because it's almost like Christmas. The whole month you get to be in Deadline spirit and it gets more and more exciting as it leads up to the big day. Deadline day eve you cant sleep tossing and turning thinking about what you might get. Then you wake up at ungodly hours of the morning to open your presents. After Deadline day you get left with that "as if it's over" feeling and you have to wait another 12 months again. Anyways that's my rant and there is a ton of rumors to report. I know my whole trade deadline review isn't even close to being done but I'm trying my hardest to try and get this finished by Wednesday. I've been extremely busy with my scouting course, and I also work full time. I'm trying to make this site the best possible hockey site and obviously it isn't going to happen over night. Please be patient and stick with it cause although it hasn't been the best I haven't missed a beat with rumors and am putting my heart into this! As for the deadline day texting service my sign up is going up after this post so sign up! Thanks!
*-> Well I'll start with the headliner with Bill Guerin on the move. The Islander's have a deal in place for veteran winger Billy Guerin. Before tonight's game in which Bill Guerin is listed on the roster was pulled off the ice in the pregame warm-up by Garth Snow and the Islanders played a man short all game. This is a major trade sign as not many times does your GM pull you from a game especially during the warm-up. Many sources have reported it's not the Bruin's but IS an Eastern Conference team. Some names mention have been the Washington Capitols, The New Jersey Devils, The Montreal Canadians and the Buffalo Sabre's. I really believe it may be the New Jersey Devil's or the Sabre's. Guerin started his career with the Devil's and they have an amazing chance at winning the cup this year. They are already a veteran laden team already though. The Buffalo Sabre's need that extra veteran presence for the push and they could use leadership, something the club has been missing since Chris Drury. Keep an eye on this one!
*-> In Phoenix a similar situation has arisen as well. Defenseman Derek Morris has been told to stay at home and wait for a trade. Derek Morris who has a no-trade clause has said he'll waive it for a trade and is expected to move by Wednesday as the Coyotes try and cut costs. Morris is also an UFA this summer so a deal makes sense. The Buffalo Sabre's were the leaders in the hunt for Morris has been joined by several other teams this week. The Boston Bruins are considering bolstering their defense. The Calgary Flames are also expected to make a deal for Derek Morris so they can rekindle their powerplay.
*-> The Pronger sweepstakes have started although the Anaheim Ducks are still in a playoff hunt. Chris Pronger has announced he doesn't want to be traded but the Anaheim Duck's want to try and do a quick rebuild. Adding Ryan Whitney to the fray indicates that Chris Pronger may not be in the teams future and if he were to be shopped he would bring in a great haul. Many teams have shown interest and made calls to Anaheim but there still is much doubt to whether or not he'll be traded. St. Louis has reportedly made a big pitch to bring Pronger back to the Blues. The Blues are almost done rebuilding and could afford to loose a pick and prospect to add that grit and experience. CBC reported this rumor also and made a big connection to this deal as Pronger's wife is from St. Louis and we all know how Pronger's wife makes the call. I.E Edmonton. Don't count any other teams out though as the Sabre's and the Bruin's want his services badly. The Bruin's are the headliners and expect to make a huge bid to secure the deal including shopping prospect Joe Corborne and Mark Stuart as bait.
*-> In other Anaheim rumors, defenseman and future hall of famer Scott Niedermayer whose name has been mentioned several times most likely wont be going anywhere. Niedermayer has been told by Anaheim that they will not trade him before or on deadline day and not too worry. The management won't break this agreement out of respect for the vet unless he is 100% willing to accept the trade. The only name that still remains is New Jersey who Niedermayer once played for.
*-> A Florida defenseman is grabbing rumor headlines this week and his first name isn't Jay for once. Nick Boyton has caused a stir after a huge war of words with Florida coach Peter DeBoer. The dispute was over Boyton's decreasing role with the team which Boyton feels he should have a lot more ice time. The result of this was Boyton having some time off from the team at home. The Florida Panthers most likely will try and shop the disgruntled defenseman at the deadline. This however depends all on the number one rumored name out of Florida Mr. Jay Bouwmeester. A deal all depends on whether or not the Panthers get a good enough deal for Bouwmeester. The Cats are expecting a high calibre defenseman, a forward who can help the team out now and a 1st round pick or prospect. The Vancouver Canuck's Alexander Edler and Alex Burrows have come up. The Canucks have a lot of defensemen to spare and Burrows is an UFA this summer that the Canucks expect to leave.
*-> Columbus Blue Jacket's general manager Scott Howson was seen at the Ottawa - Toronto game tonight in a sky box. The further adds to the rumors that ether Ottawa's Antoine Vermette or Toronto's Nik Antropov could be headed to the Blue Jackets. Columbus hasn't been shy about their intentions to sign a playmaking center to compliment franchise player Rick Nash. Both Vermette and Antropov fit that description and could be targets for Columbus this Wednesday.
*-> Philadelphia's hunt for a number one goalie could be ending this Wednesday as the Flyer's are expected to make Atlanta an offer for goaltender Kari Lehtonen. The Flyers who have been unhappy with their goaltender tandem this season feels that Kari could be the guy to put them over the top. James Van Riemsdyk is being dangled as well as a high pick. The Flyers would need to trade a player or two in order to gain more cap space though. Antero Nittymaki would also have to go to the Thrashers in return as Martin Biron has a no-trade.
*-> Well I'll start with the headliner with Bill Guerin on the move. The Islander's have a deal in place for veteran winger Billy Guerin. Before tonight's game in which Bill Guerin is listed on the roster was pulled off the ice in the pregame warm-up by Garth Snow and the Islanders played a man short all game. This is a major trade sign as not many times does your GM pull you from a game especially during the warm-up. Many sources have reported it's not the Bruin's but IS an Eastern Conference team. Some names mention have been the Washington Capitols, The New Jersey Devils, The Montreal Canadians and the Buffalo Sabre's. I really believe it may be the New Jersey Devil's or the Sabre's. Guerin started his career with the Devil's and they have an amazing chance at winning the cup this year. They are already a veteran laden team already though. The Buffalo Sabre's need that extra veteran presence for the push and they could use leadership, something the club has been missing since Chris Drury. Keep an eye on this one!
*-> In Phoenix a similar situation has arisen as well. Defenseman Derek Morris has been told to stay at home and wait for a trade. Derek Morris who has a no-trade clause has said he'll waive it for a trade and is expected to move by Wednesday as the Coyotes try and cut costs. Morris is also an UFA this summer so a deal makes sense. The Buffalo Sabre's were the leaders in the hunt for Morris has been joined by several other teams this week. The Boston Bruins are considering bolstering their defense. The Calgary Flames are also expected to make a deal for Derek Morris so they can rekindle their powerplay.
*-> The Pronger sweepstakes have started although the Anaheim Ducks are still in a playoff hunt. Chris Pronger has announced he doesn't want to be traded but the Anaheim Duck's want to try and do a quick rebuild. Adding Ryan Whitney to the fray indicates that Chris Pronger may not be in the teams future and if he were to be shopped he would bring in a great haul. Many teams have shown interest and made calls to Anaheim but there still is much doubt to whether or not he'll be traded. St. Louis has reportedly made a big pitch to bring Pronger back to the Blues. The Blues are almost done rebuilding and could afford to loose a pick and prospect to add that grit and experience. CBC reported this rumor also and made a big connection to this deal as Pronger's wife is from St. Louis and we all know how Pronger's wife makes the call. I.E Edmonton. Don't count any other teams out though as the Sabre's and the Bruin's want his services badly. The Bruin's are the headliners and expect to make a huge bid to secure the deal including shopping prospect Joe Corborne and Mark Stuart as bait.
*-> In other Anaheim rumors, defenseman and future hall of famer Scott Niedermayer whose name has been mentioned several times most likely wont be going anywhere. Niedermayer has been told by Anaheim that they will not trade him before or on deadline day and not too worry. The management won't break this agreement out of respect for the vet unless he is 100% willing to accept the trade. The only name that still remains is New Jersey who Niedermayer once played for.
*-> A Florida defenseman is grabbing rumor headlines this week and his first name isn't Jay for once. Nick Boyton has caused a stir after a huge war of words with Florida coach Peter DeBoer. The dispute was over Boyton's decreasing role with the team which Boyton feels he should have a lot more ice time. The result of this was Boyton having some time off from the team at home. The Florida Panthers most likely will try and shop the disgruntled defenseman at the deadline. This however depends all on the number one rumored name out of Florida Mr. Jay Bouwmeester. A deal all depends on whether or not the Panthers get a good enough deal for Bouwmeester. The Cats are expecting a high calibre defenseman, a forward who can help the team out now and a 1st round pick or prospect. The Vancouver Canuck's Alexander Edler and Alex Burrows have come up. The Canucks have a lot of defensemen to spare and Burrows is an UFA this summer that the Canucks expect to leave.
*-> Columbus Blue Jacket's general manager Scott Howson was seen at the Ottawa - Toronto game tonight in a sky box. The further adds to the rumors that ether Ottawa's Antoine Vermette or Toronto's Nik Antropov could be headed to the Blue Jackets. Columbus hasn't been shy about their intentions to sign a playmaking center to compliment franchise player Rick Nash. Both Vermette and Antropov fit that description and could be targets for Columbus this Wednesday.
*-> Philadelphia's hunt for a number one goalie could be ending this Wednesday as the Flyer's are expected to make Atlanta an offer for goaltender Kari Lehtonen. The Flyers who have been unhappy with their goaltender tandem this season feels that Kari could be the guy to put them over the top. James Van Riemsdyk is being dangled as well as a high pick. The Flyers would need to trade a player or two in order to gain more cap space though. Antero Nittymaki would also have to go to the Thrashers in return as Martin Biron has a no-trade.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The I.R: Tuesday Afternoon
So it looks like my Ottawa and Toronto reviews didn't go through last night as well as my I.R report so when I get home tonight Ill repost them. For now here's the I.R.
*-> Alex Tanguay of the Montreal Canadians was told this morning he would not be cleared to play this week as his shoulder is still nagging him. He may return early next week.
*-> Ryan Miller will miss the next two weeks with a high ankle sprain and backup goalie Patrick Lalime will step up. Buffalo also recalled Jonas Enroth from Portland. The Sabres will need that tandem to step up big time down the stretch.
*-> Mike Modano of the Dallas Stars will miss the next game after missing last nights game with the flu. It's a 50 50 chance he'll play.
*-> Alex Tanguay of the Montreal Canadians was told this morning he would not be cleared to play this week as his shoulder is still nagging him. He may return early next week.
*-> Ryan Miller will miss the next two weeks with a high ankle sprain and backup goalie Patrick Lalime will step up. Buffalo also recalled Jonas Enroth from Portland. The Sabres will need that tandem to step up big time down the stretch.
*-> Mike Modano of the Dallas Stars will miss the next game after missing last nights game with the flu. It's a 50 50 chance he'll play.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Buffalo Sabre's Deadline Review
Buffalo Sabres - 8th - 66pts
Total Salary = 50,287,056$
Cap Space = 6,412,944$
The Plot:
The Buffalo Sabre's have played decent hockey most of the season with only a few minor setbacks but the team is still looking just average and is under performing. On paper the Sabre's have a really talented team up front but have a mediocre defense on the back end. Lindy Ruff is one of the best coaches in the league and his accountability approach appeared to have stopped working. Not getting much sucess after calling out Jochen Hecht and Maxim Afinogenov at the start of the season. Buffalo needs it's big stars to step up in the stretch so that they can hold onto 8th and the final playoff spot. Derek Roy and Jason Pominville have been impressive to date and have kept the Sabre's alive while Thomas Vanek their top goal scorer sits out for a month with a broken jaw. Drew Stafford is on pace for a career year with 37pts and Ales Kotalik has performed up to par. Tim Connolly the often injured but extremely talented star missed most of the season with an injury but has returned and has carried the weight lost left by Vanek's injury with a point per game. Maxim Afinogenov has been a complete bust this season with only 12 points and the Sabre's have been baffled to what has happened to the once elite winger. The Sabre's have a pretty decent back two lines, with Adam Mair and Patrick Kaleta provide grit and intensity to their lineup. Paul Gaustad adds a bit of offensive punch as well as toughness. The Sabre's resident enforcer Andrew Peters adds that extra protection for their stars. Overall there front line-up could use a bit of a jump and maybe some experience, since most of the veterans are on the blue line. The Sabre's still feel the loss of Briere and Drury so they need that extra jump.
Buffalo's blueline looks good on paper but really isn't as competitive as it should be for an offensive team. Jaroslav Spacek leads the way with 26 points and provides a nice shot and crisp passes from the point. Veteran Teppo Numminen is starting to show his age offensively and has turned into more of a defensive defenseman who provides leadership and heart. Toni Lydman is struggling to acheive last years totals and the team needs him to step up not only offensively but defensively as well. Craig Rivet adds toughness and grit to the blueline and recently has discovered an offensive touch. Rivet and Henrik Tallinder provide most of the defensive reliability to the team but the squad still could use some help. Andrej Sekera has done well in his 2nd NHL season and looks to have an offensive upside to him that could be developed more. Brian Campbell's departure still haunts the backend and they really need a stud defenseman. They also could use another defenseman with two way capabilities.
In net the Sabre's are safe for a long time with Ryan Miller who has really stepped it up down the stretch and provides everything they want and need from a goalie. Miller who looked shakey at the start of the season looks to be in top form and is almost a shoe in for the US 2010 Olympic team. In behind him the Sabre's have veteran Patrick Lalime who has been fairly reliable tthis since and is reliable to play in stretches to give Miller much needed breaks.
Major Injuries:
Thomas Vanek - Broken jaw out till mid March.
Key Prospects:
1. D Mike Weber - Buffalo Sabres
2. G Jhonas Enroth - Portland Pirates
3. D Marc Andre Gragnani - Portland Pirates
4. LW Tim Kennedy - Portland Pirates
5. D T.J Brennan - Montreal Juniors
6. C Paul Byron - Gatineau Olympiques
UFA's:
Maxim Afinogenov
Tim Connolly
Ales Kotalik
Andrew Peters
Jaroslav Spacek
Teppo Numminen
Mathieu Darche
Tyler Bouck
Matt Ellis
Colten Fretter
Colin Murphy
Players On The Block:
RW Maxim Afinogenov - Maxim has had a few trying seasons with the Sabre's and the once prolific scorer has suffered from Samsonov Syndrome and has dropped off the map. with and emabarassing 12 points this year and frustrating give aways the Sabre's management has officially run out of patience. Although there really isn't a line up for his services I'm sure their are a few teams who would take a risk for the playoffs to add an offensively gifted forward with flair to spare. 3.3MIL$ is hard to swallow though for a player who may or may not show up. Ether way a change of scenary is much needed.
C Tim Connolly - there has been many rumors and its hard to believe that the Sabre's are interested in shopping Tim Connolly but the Sabre's management now have a phobia with loosing star players for nothing as they did with Brian Campbell, Daniel Briere and Chris Drury. Tim Connolly is a free agent this summer and unless he signs for under 3MIL$ by the deadline they could possibly offer him out in a deal to bring in some extra offensive or defensive help. Connolly is attractive to some but he is injury prone so his value is low and as long as the Sabre's star Thomas Vanek is sidelined don't expect a deal.
LW Dylan Hunter - The once highly touted prospect has rapidly dropped down the rankings and the Sabre's could be willing to part with him. Hunter who used to be an offensive threat has now turned into a 3rd liner with a scoring touch. Unable to crack the Sabre's line-up their best option may be to trade him while he still has some value. He's due at the end of the season for a raise higher than 566K$ and the Sabre's might want that space for another young prospect with higher talent.
Team Needs/Wants:
The Sabre's will definatly be a buyer unless they hit a major bump down the stretch. I believe they will squek in the playoffs under Lindy Ruff's guidance and Ryan Miller's heroics. The Sabre's still need a few more peices to the puzzle and add a little depth. The D could use a highly talented two way defenseman and on forward they could add an extra body that can score or a veteran player whose not afraid to call out his teamates.
Possibly Targets:
Vaclav Prospal - Prospal could be availiable for the deadline if the Tampa Bay Lightning decide to dump some cap space. Prospal is still able to put up the numbers and can be a nice compliment to the Sabre's top line. He also has two way play and can fill in on the top line and benifits from playing increased minutes. The Sabre's have a lot of cap space and would have space for a defenseman too.
Mark Recchi - Mark Recchi could provide some extra depth and leadership for the Sabre's down the stretch. Recchi still has a bit of game left in him and can play a 2nd line role down to a 4th line checking role. Recchi's leadership could be valuable to a team who needs a push and he might be able to kick Afinogenov into playing harder. Recchi is easily affordable and would provide that missing scoring depth and two-way play missing without having to break the bank.
Derek Morris - The Phoenix Coyotes are getting ready to hit seller mode and Derek Morris is most likely availiable because he is an UFA this summer. Derek Morris has shown he has offensive talent but at the same time hes ateady in his own end and his presence would be much appriciated by the Sabre's. He would easily command the first defence pairing with Jaroslav Spacek.
Tomas Kaberle - Rumor has it Kaberle has Buffalo on his list of 10 teams he'd be willing to be traded to and would be exactly what the Sabre's need to go forward and take the next step to be a playoff contender. Kaberle can easily make or break a game with his play defensively and offensively and is under contract for the next couple of years which is good because Jaroslav Specek is up at the end of this season leaving the Sabre's with no real offense. The Sabre's could also put together a decent package for the Leafs with picks and prospects they've developed and acquired over the last few seasons.
Mark Bell - This is a longshot but the Sabre's could use some depth and Mark Bell would be extremely cheap and for next to nothing. The Maple Leafs are dying to get rid of him for anything because his taking up valuable cap space from the minors while becoming a free agent this summer. the Sabre's coule easily get him for less than a 5th round pick and Mark Bell still can provide some secondary scoring is a due a second chance in the NHL.
Keith Tkachuk - Keith Tkachuk is that veteran guy who will make some noise in the dressing room so that Lindy doesn't have to. Tkachuk also adds a bit of grit and an offensive touch around the net. The guy can still score and could help out on the 2nd or 3rd lines. The Sabre's would have to get in line for Tkachuk and most likely over pay but it may be worth it. Darcy Regier may not be too interested in a rental player though.
Jordan Leopold - The Sabre's need offensive help and Leopold could benifit from more ice time and could help them out offensively while still being ok defensively. Leopold is quick and still can play the body adding some depth. Leopold has a easily digested salary and most likely wouldn't be too pricey.
The Final Word :
The Buffalo Sabre's are a good team still recovering from some losses while waiting for the next batch of superstars too develop. The only problem is that if they want to succeed now they might have to sacrifice some of their future for a rental. Darcy Regier would definately like to avoid that situation so look for him to take players with contracts over rentals. The Sabre's need some help on the backend and that should be the priority but they also would like to stock up in case of the match of firepower against the Bruins. Regier might be more willing this time around to trade some of his UFA's at the deadline instead of loosing them for nothing as it haunts them still. They will be buyers for sure at the deadline and expect some moves be it minor or large.
Total Salary = 50,287,056$
Cap Space = 6,412,944$
The Plot:
The Buffalo Sabre's have played decent hockey most of the season with only a few minor setbacks but the team is still looking just average and is under performing. On paper the Sabre's have a really talented team up front but have a mediocre defense on the back end. Lindy Ruff is one of the best coaches in the league and his accountability approach appeared to have stopped working. Not getting much sucess after calling out Jochen Hecht and Maxim Afinogenov at the start of the season. Buffalo needs it's big stars to step up in the stretch so that they can hold onto 8th and the final playoff spot. Derek Roy and Jason Pominville have been impressive to date and have kept the Sabre's alive while Thomas Vanek their top goal scorer sits out for a month with a broken jaw. Drew Stafford is on pace for a career year with 37pts and Ales Kotalik has performed up to par. Tim Connolly the often injured but extremely talented star missed most of the season with an injury but has returned and has carried the weight lost left by Vanek's injury with a point per game. Maxim Afinogenov has been a complete bust this season with only 12 points and the Sabre's have been baffled to what has happened to the once elite winger. The Sabre's have a pretty decent back two lines, with Adam Mair and Patrick Kaleta provide grit and intensity to their lineup. Paul Gaustad adds a bit of offensive punch as well as toughness. The Sabre's resident enforcer Andrew Peters adds that extra protection for their stars. Overall there front line-up could use a bit of a jump and maybe some experience, since most of the veterans are on the blue line. The Sabre's still feel the loss of Briere and Drury so they need that extra jump.
Buffalo's blueline looks good on paper but really isn't as competitive as it should be for an offensive team. Jaroslav Spacek leads the way with 26 points and provides a nice shot and crisp passes from the point. Veteran Teppo Numminen is starting to show his age offensively and has turned into more of a defensive defenseman who provides leadership and heart. Toni Lydman is struggling to acheive last years totals and the team needs him to step up not only offensively but defensively as well. Craig Rivet adds toughness and grit to the blueline and recently has discovered an offensive touch. Rivet and Henrik Tallinder provide most of the defensive reliability to the team but the squad still could use some help. Andrej Sekera has done well in his 2nd NHL season and looks to have an offensive upside to him that could be developed more. Brian Campbell's departure still haunts the backend and they really need a stud defenseman. They also could use another defenseman with two way capabilities.
In net the Sabre's are safe for a long time with Ryan Miller who has really stepped it up down the stretch and provides everything they want and need from a goalie. Miller who looked shakey at the start of the season looks to be in top form and is almost a shoe in for the US 2010 Olympic team. In behind him the Sabre's have veteran Patrick Lalime who has been fairly reliable tthis since and is reliable to play in stretches to give Miller much needed breaks.
Major Injuries:
Thomas Vanek - Broken jaw out till mid March.
Key Prospects:
1. D Mike Weber - Buffalo Sabres
2. G Jhonas Enroth - Portland Pirates
3. D Marc Andre Gragnani - Portland Pirates
4. LW Tim Kennedy - Portland Pirates
5. D T.J Brennan - Montreal Juniors
6. C Paul Byron - Gatineau Olympiques
UFA's:
Maxim Afinogenov
Tim Connolly
Ales Kotalik
Andrew Peters
Jaroslav Spacek
Teppo Numminen
Mathieu Darche
Tyler Bouck
Matt Ellis
Colten Fretter
Colin Murphy
Players On The Block:
RW Maxim Afinogenov - Maxim has had a few trying seasons with the Sabre's and the once prolific scorer has suffered from Samsonov Syndrome and has dropped off the map. with and emabarassing 12 points this year and frustrating give aways the Sabre's management has officially run out of patience. Although there really isn't a line up for his services I'm sure their are a few teams who would take a risk for the playoffs to add an offensively gifted forward with flair to spare. 3.3MIL$ is hard to swallow though for a player who may or may not show up. Ether way a change of scenary is much needed.
C Tim Connolly - there has been many rumors and its hard to believe that the Sabre's are interested in shopping Tim Connolly but the Sabre's management now have a phobia with loosing star players for nothing as they did with Brian Campbell, Daniel Briere and Chris Drury. Tim Connolly is a free agent this summer and unless he signs for under 3MIL$ by the deadline they could possibly offer him out in a deal to bring in some extra offensive or defensive help. Connolly is attractive to some but he is injury prone so his value is low and as long as the Sabre's star Thomas Vanek is sidelined don't expect a deal.
LW Dylan Hunter - The once highly touted prospect has rapidly dropped down the rankings and the Sabre's could be willing to part with him. Hunter who used to be an offensive threat has now turned into a 3rd liner with a scoring touch. Unable to crack the Sabre's line-up their best option may be to trade him while he still has some value. He's due at the end of the season for a raise higher than 566K$ and the Sabre's might want that space for another young prospect with higher talent.
Team Needs/Wants:
The Sabre's will definatly be a buyer unless they hit a major bump down the stretch. I believe they will squek in the playoffs under Lindy Ruff's guidance and Ryan Miller's heroics. The Sabre's still need a few more peices to the puzzle and add a little depth. The D could use a highly talented two way defenseman and on forward they could add an extra body that can score or a veteran player whose not afraid to call out his teamates.
Possibly Targets:
Vaclav Prospal - Prospal could be availiable for the deadline if the Tampa Bay Lightning decide to dump some cap space. Prospal is still able to put up the numbers and can be a nice compliment to the Sabre's top line. He also has two way play and can fill in on the top line and benifits from playing increased minutes. The Sabre's have a lot of cap space and would have space for a defenseman too.
Mark Recchi - Mark Recchi could provide some extra depth and leadership for the Sabre's down the stretch. Recchi still has a bit of game left in him and can play a 2nd line role down to a 4th line checking role. Recchi's leadership could be valuable to a team who needs a push and he might be able to kick Afinogenov into playing harder. Recchi is easily affordable and would provide that missing scoring depth and two-way play missing without having to break the bank.
Derek Morris - The Phoenix Coyotes are getting ready to hit seller mode and Derek Morris is most likely availiable because he is an UFA this summer. Derek Morris has shown he has offensive talent but at the same time hes ateady in his own end and his presence would be much appriciated by the Sabre's. He would easily command the first defence pairing with Jaroslav Spacek.
Tomas Kaberle - Rumor has it Kaberle has Buffalo on his list of 10 teams he'd be willing to be traded to and would be exactly what the Sabre's need to go forward and take the next step to be a playoff contender. Kaberle can easily make or break a game with his play defensively and offensively and is under contract for the next couple of years which is good because Jaroslav Specek is up at the end of this season leaving the Sabre's with no real offense. The Sabre's could also put together a decent package for the Leafs with picks and prospects they've developed and acquired over the last few seasons.
Mark Bell - This is a longshot but the Sabre's could use some depth and Mark Bell would be extremely cheap and for next to nothing. The Maple Leafs are dying to get rid of him for anything because his taking up valuable cap space from the minors while becoming a free agent this summer. the Sabre's coule easily get him for less than a 5th round pick and Mark Bell still can provide some secondary scoring is a due a second chance in the NHL.
Keith Tkachuk - Keith Tkachuk is that veteran guy who will make some noise in the dressing room so that Lindy doesn't have to. Tkachuk also adds a bit of grit and an offensive touch around the net. The guy can still score and could help out on the 2nd or 3rd lines. The Sabre's would have to get in line for Tkachuk and most likely over pay but it may be worth it. Darcy Regier may not be too interested in a rental player though.
Jordan Leopold - The Sabre's need offensive help and Leopold could benifit from more ice time and could help them out offensively while still being ok defensively. Leopold is quick and still can play the body adding some depth. Leopold has a easily digested salary and most likely wouldn't be too pricey.
The Final Word :
The Buffalo Sabre's are a good team still recovering from some losses while waiting for the next batch of superstars too develop. The only problem is that if they want to succeed now they might have to sacrifice some of their future for a rental. Darcy Regier would definately like to avoid that situation so look for him to take players with contracts over rentals. The Sabre's need some help on the backend and that should be the priority but they also would like to stock up in case of the match of firepower against the Bruins. Regier might be more willing this time around to trade some of his UFA's at the deadline instead of loosing them for nothing as it haunts them still. They will be buyers for sure at the deadline and expect some moves be it minor or large.
Monday, February 9, 2009
The I.R: Monday Evening
*-> Columbus Blue Jackets young goalie Steve Mason was placed on the IR Saturday after suffering from a viral infection while suffering from mono. He is expected to be out for atleast 2 weeks giving him time to recover.
*-> The Minnesota wild will happy to know that defenseman Kurtis Foster is almost ready to go. Foster who suffered a broken leg in a race for the puck will attempt to test out his leg in the AHL till hes ready to go. The Minnesota staff would not comment on how much longer he'll be but it is most likely going to be under 2 weeks.
*-> Tomas Vanek's of the Buffalo Sabres will be out 3 to 4 weeks with a fractured jaw suffered from a shot off the jaw. The Sabre's are going to be missing him severly and are expected to look on the market for a replacement so they may stay in the playoff picture. I guess Don Cherry's hockey gods theory was true after he said the hockey gods would get Buffalo for running up the score last week on Toronto while they had a rookie goalie Justin Pogge in net.
*-> Boston's Michael Ryder will be out for a week with a fractured bone in his cheek after being high sticked by Antoine Vermette in boston's shoot out win agains't Ottawa. This isn't a serious injured its just a precaution while they find out what Ryder has to do in order to return to action like wearing a face sheild or visor.
*-> Chris Neil of the Ottawa Senators will be miss 3 to 4 weeks with a blown knee. Chris Neil who suffered the same injury last season suffered it again in a shoot out win over Buffalo Saturday night. Neil whose stock has risen over the past few weeks has once again dropped with this injury. The Sens are hoping to get him back in action before the deadline so they may attempt to get full value for him.
*-> The Minnesota wild will happy to know that defenseman Kurtis Foster is almost ready to go. Foster who suffered a broken leg in a race for the puck will attempt to test out his leg in the AHL till hes ready to go. The Minnesota staff would not comment on how much longer he'll be but it is most likely going to be under 2 weeks.
*-> Tomas Vanek's of the Buffalo Sabres will be out 3 to 4 weeks with a fractured jaw suffered from a shot off the jaw. The Sabre's are going to be missing him severly and are expected to look on the market for a replacement so they may stay in the playoff picture. I guess Don Cherry's hockey gods theory was true after he said the hockey gods would get Buffalo for running up the score last week on Toronto while they had a rookie goalie Justin Pogge in net.
*-> Boston's Michael Ryder will be out for a week with a fractured bone in his cheek after being high sticked by Antoine Vermette in boston's shoot out win agains't Ottawa. This isn't a serious injured its just a precaution while they find out what Ryder has to do in order to return to action like wearing a face sheild or visor.
*-> Chris Neil of the Ottawa Senators will be miss 3 to 4 weeks with a blown knee. Chris Neil who suffered the same injury last season suffered it again in a shoot out win over Buffalo Saturday night. Neil whose stock has risen over the past few weeks has once again dropped with this injury. The Sens are hoping to get him back in action before the deadline so they may attempt to get full value for him.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The I.R: Thursday Afternoon
Alot of minor shuffling today and yesterday from/to the Injured Reserve or the AHL and here they are.
*-> The Montreal Canadians have been hit by a wave of recent injuries and now can add Chris Higgins back to that list alot though he'll most likely only miss a game or two with an agrivated upper-body injury. The good news is that big Georges Laraque will most likely be ready to put on the skates for Montreal's tilt with Toronto Saturday. Also defenseman turned forward Mathieu Dandenault will be back from his serious leg injury way sooner than expected. He is rumored to be back early next week. Patrice Briesbois who is also out with an undisclosed injury which would most likely be his ankle should be ready to play again next week as well.
*-> The Canadians have also sent down defenseman Alex Henry back to Hamilton after playing two games.
*-> The Buffalo Sabres have activated veteran defenseman Teppo Numminen from the injured reserve and sent down defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani to the Portland Pirates.
*-> The Ottawa Senators have returned center Peter Regin to the juinior Sens and recalled winger Ryan Shannon for tonights game against Boston.
*-> The Blue Jackets have reactivated Russian young gun Nikita Filitov but then sent him down to Syracuse of the AHL.
*-> The Carolina Hurricanes have ran into some injury trouble down the stretch on their Western tour lossing both Rod Brind'Amour and grinder Scott Walker. Walker who was placed on the I.R today is out with an undisclosed upper body injury while Brind'Amour continues to suffer from a bad back. Walker is expected to be atleast while a week while Brind'Amour is only expected to miss the last leg of the trip. Replacement Jakub Petruzalek was called up from Albany.
*-> The Toronto Maple Leaf's have done another up and down shuffle involving Justin Pogge after leaving him out to dry againts the Sabres last night. Justin Pogge was sent down to the Marlies today after just one day in the show. The Buds countered by bringing back up Jonas Frogren after just sending him down yesterday with tough guy Andre Deveaux.
*-> The Phoenix Coyotes have recalled Kevin Porter and forward Jeff Hoggan from San Antonio of the AHL while sending down LW Steven Goertzen and former Sen Alexander Nikulin. The Desert Dogs have also activated Viktor Tikhonov from the IR but chose to send him down to San Antonio for some conditioning.
*-> The Montreal Canadians have been hit by a wave of recent injuries and now can add Chris Higgins back to that list alot though he'll most likely only miss a game or two with an agrivated upper-body injury. The good news is that big Georges Laraque will most likely be ready to put on the skates for Montreal's tilt with Toronto Saturday. Also defenseman turned forward Mathieu Dandenault will be back from his serious leg injury way sooner than expected. He is rumored to be back early next week. Patrice Briesbois who is also out with an undisclosed injury which would most likely be his ankle should be ready to play again next week as well.
*-> The Canadians have also sent down defenseman Alex Henry back to Hamilton after playing two games.
*-> The Buffalo Sabres have activated veteran defenseman Teppo Numminen from the injured reserve and sent down defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani to the Portland Pirates.
*-> The Ottawa Senators have returned center Peter Regin to the juinior Sens and recalled winger Ryan Shannon for tonights game against Boston.
*-> The Blue Jackets have reactivated Russian young gun Nikita Filitov but then sent him down to Syracuse of the AHL.
*-> The Carolina Hurricanes have ran into some injury trouble down the stretch on their Western tour lossing both Rod Brind'Amour and grinder Scott Walker. Walker who was placed on the I.R today is out with an undisclosed upper body injury while Brind'Amour continues to suffer from a bad back. Walker is expected to be atleast while a week while Brind'Amour is only expected to miss the last leg of the trip. Replacement Jakub Petruzalek was called up from Albany.
*-> The Toronto Maple Leaf's have done another up and down shuffle involving Justin Pogge after leaving him out to dry againts the Sabres last night. Justin Pogge was sent down to the Marlies today after just one day in the show. The Buds countered by bringing back up Jonas Frogren after just sending him down yesterday with tough guy Andre Deveaux.
*-> The Phoenix Coyotes have recalled Kevin Porter and forward Jeff Hoggan from San Antonio of the AHL while sending down LW Steven Goertzen and former Sen Alexander Nikulin. The Desert Dogs have also activated Viktor Tikhonov from the IR but chose to send him down to San Antonio for some conditioning.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
The I.R Sunday
*-Buffalo Sabre's longtime defenseman Teppo Numminen is out once again after having facial surgery this morning. He had surgery to repair a fractured cheek bone caused by taking a Tim Gleason shot to the face Saturday night. Teppo who has had a long list of ailments this season is expected to miss another 3 weeks.
*-Mike Zigomanis of the Pittsburgh Penguins will miss the rest of the season after opting for sugery on his right shoulder which he suffered December 3rd.
*-St. Louis Blues rookie defenseman Roman Polak will be out at least 2 months with a fractured bone in his foot. He was injured Saturday night when he took a shot of his right foot.
*Steve Stamko's of the Tampa Bay Lightning will be missing a few games as a healthy skratch so he may work on his conditioning and review video footage to make him stronger. The team announced they would be holding him back to help his future. He is however expected to play on Monday but after the future is unclear.
*-Mike Zigomanis of the Pittsburgh Penguins will miss the rest of the season after opting for sugery on his right shoulder which he suffered December 3rd.
*-St. Louis Blues rookie defenseman Roman Polak will be out at least 2 months with a fractured bone in his foot. He was injured Saturday night when he took a shot of his right foot.
*Steve Stamko's of the Tampa Bay Lightning will be missing a few games as a healthy skratch so he may work on his conditioning and review video footage to make him stronger. The team announced they would be holding him back to help his future. He is however expected to play on Monday but after the future is unclear.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The I.R: Tuesday Morning
Here are today's injuries...
*- Maxim Afinogenov of the Buffalo Sabre's will miss at least a weeks worth of games due to a nagging groin injury he received from a hit against Chara.
*-In other Buffalo news Craig Rivet is set to return after missing 11 games with an injured shoulder. Also Teppo Numminen is almost 100% after missing a few games with an undisclosed illness.
*-The Columbus Blue Jacket's have finally placed Rostislav Klesla on the I.R for a nagging undisclosed lower-body injury. The time frame is expected to be 2-4 weeks.
*- Maxim Afinogenov of the Buffalo Sabre's will miss at least a weeks worth of games due to a nagging groin injury he received from a hit against Chara.
*-In other Buffalo news Craig Rivet is set to return after missing 11 games with an injured shoulder. Also Teppo Numminen is almost 100% after missing a few games with an undisclosed illness.
*-The Columbus Blue Jacket's have finally placed Rostislav Klesla on the I.R for a nagging undisclosed lower-body injury. The time frame is expected to be 2-4 weeks.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
September 18th News Hits Part 2
-> The Phillidelphia Flyers have signed free agent goalie Jean-Sabastien Aubin to a one year deal. J.S Aubin split the season in L.A and the AHL.
-> Jason Pominville signed a 5 year extenstion with the Buffalo Sabres. Terms were not announced.
-> Earlier I was wrong when I stated that Mathieu Schnieder would be sent to the AHL apparently they will keep him on the roster till a deal is in place.
-> Vincent Lecavalier was named the Tampa Bay Lightnings new captian this season.
-> Mike Richards has been named Phillys new captain as well.
Rumours On The Wire
-> Nikolai Khabibulin is reported being shopped secretly by the Chicago Blackhawks. The two rumoured interested teams are the Ottawa Senators and the L.A Kings. I've heard this one before and it's the same two teams coming up. I also heard Ottawa tried to make a deadline deal last season with Chicago for Khabibulin and Lapointe. I don't really see this happening because of the cap situation but maybe if Ottawa unloads a hefty contract (Chris Kelly and Martin Gerber) it could get done. I see L.A as a better option because they need the cap hit bad. Also the fact that they still don't have a number one goalie yet.
-> Now that Justin Williams is out for most of the season Carolina is looking to Fill that void. Mark Parrish could be a possibility to replace him. I believe Mark Parrish is the best option out there for the Canes. The other name I hear whispered is Jeff O'Neil who is on a try-out basis with the club. If it was up to me I'd say stick with Parrish.
-> Jason Pominville signed a 5 year extenstion with the Buffalo Sabres. Terms were not announced.
-> Earlier I was wrong when I stated that Mathieu Schnieder would be sent to the AHL apparently they will keep him on the roster till a deal is in place.
-> Vincent Lecavalier was named the Tampa Bay Lightnings new captian this season.
-> Mike Richards has been named Phillys new captain as well.
Rumours On The Wire
-> Nikolai Khabibulin is reported being shopped secretly by the Chicago Blackhawks. The two rumoured interested teams are the Ottawa Senators and the L.A Kings. I've heard this one before and it's the same two teams coming up. I also heard Ottawa tried to make a deadline deal last season with Chicago for Khabibulin and Lapointe. I don't really see this happening because of the cap situation but maybe if Ottawa unloads a hefty contract (Chris Kelly and Martin Gerber) it could get done. I see L.A as a better option because they need the cap hit bad. Also the fact that they still don't have a number one goalie yet.
-> Now that Justin Williams is out for most of the season Carolina is looking to Fill that void. Mark Parrish could be a possibility to replace him. I believe Mark Parrish is the best option out there for the Canes. The other name I hear whispered is Jeff O'Neil who is on a try-out basis with the club. If it was up to me I'd say stick with Parrish.
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