Ye Olde Trade Rumor Thread

[pete]

http://spectorshockey.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=77:stars-scouting-lightning&catid=5:trade-rumors&Itemid=9

Flog away, folks. Flog away.

Me, personally? I liked the Cam Barker trade rumors better.

[Sotnos]

I also agree with Erlendsson - if anyone's going, it's the pending UFAs. Of course, that's not a "sexy" enough rumor, much more fun to think your team is scouting St. Louis as opposed to Gratton.

This Turco-for-St. Louis thing just refuses to die, been kicking around for months now.

[chad]

This Turco-for-St. Louis thing just refuses to die, been kicking around for months now.

Yeah, there's no way.

Every year is Marquee Player A being traded for Marquee Player B and for the very, very most part - all you're going to get is Prospal for a pick or Gratton for a forward prospect.

Nothing to change the world, but should help plug smaller holes in the future.

[pete]

I don't want any of the Stars' prospects. I'd just as soon try and get their 1st rounder.

[CTLightning26]

There is a variance to a Richards for Khabibulin trade I might go for.
Straight up? No way in ***.
But if the Hawks sweetened the pot with a No. 2, a middle-range forward prospect and took Denis off our hands. (maybe we could throw in Gratton, Hlavac, Janik, Ward, something like that) - i might be interested.

[pete]

Trading Richards would be a stupid, short-sighted exercise in futility.

[Evan]

Why not move Kuba? Sure it weakens the defense some, but if we are already going to be bottom of the barrel who cares? It would free up 3 mill for next year, which could go along way in resigning Boyle.

[pete]

I could definitely get behind moving Kuba and using the $3M to help keep Boyle. The problem is, it might be tough to find someone to take Filip without sending some salary back the other way.

If I could get a top-60 pick for Kuba, I probably would take it.

[chad]

I could definitely get behind moving Kuba and using the $3M to help keep Boyle. The problem is, it might be tough to find someone to take Filip without sending some salary back the other way.

If I could get a top-60 pick for Kuba, I probably would take it.

Agreed on all counts.

Anyone have a list of UFA dmen for next year?

Otherwise we're looking at:

Ranger-Boyle
O'Brien-Lundin
Lukowich-Smaby

Maybe not that bad... assuming OB takes a confident step forward and Lundin doesn't have a Sophoslump.

[Avery86]

Anyone have a list of UFA dmen for next year?


http://www.sportscity.com/NHL/NHL-Free-Agents-by-Position-2008/#Defense

Some of them have already been re-signed and others will most likely be re-signed, but that's the list.

[pete]

I glanced at it briefly a few weeks ago. Other than Redden there was nobody I was really jumping up and down about.

Would you take Paul Mara back? I probably would.

[the_narrow_way]

Yes, I'd like to see Mara play for TB again.

[CTLightning26]

Yes, I'd like to see Mara play for TB again.


Depends on who else we have.

[Hoek]

Couldn't be any worse than Kuba.. Not saying that Kuba has been all bad, just saying he'd probably have that sort of impact both on the upside and downside, IMO. If he could be had for a little cheaper after a few down years in New York and Boston it could be a sweet deal.

[RSchmitz]

Couldn't be any worse than Kuba..

agreed!!!!

[Bolthed]

I'd like to start a rumor (watch it end up on Eklund's site) ...

Richards to Buffalo for Roy and either Pominville or Stafford, their choice.

Gives both teams what they need (assuming all players are healthy and mono-free): Buffalo gets a No. 1 center, Tampa Bay gets some payroll relief and an instant second line.

If only Richards' value were where it needs to be.

[CTLightning26]

I'd like to start a rumor (watch it end up on Eklund's site) ...

Richards to Buffalo for Roy and either Pominville or Stafford, their choice.

Gives both teams what they need (assuming all players are healthy and mono-free): Buffalo gets a No. 1 center, Tampa Bay gets some payroll relief and an instant second line.

If only Richards' value were where it needs to be.


I don't think it's a terrible deal for the Bolts. The thing I would question is, Buffalo just gave Roy a long-term deal with $4 mil cap number. That would tell me that they like him a bit and might not want to just ship him away. Plus, he's got 37 points in 44 games and is +10 and Pominville leads the team in scoring.
Buffalo might be more interested it were Connolly and Stafford, but we would need a whole lot more than that.
Maybe Connolly, Stafford, McArthur and a No. 2 for Richy and a No. 3??

[CTLightning26]

agreed!!!!


Ditto.
How about Kuba to the Rangers for Mara and a No. 2
Then we could sign Mara for like $4 mil for 2.

[chad]

Malik's supposedly on his way out of the Rags... any interest?

[Jester47]

Malik's supposedly on his way out of the Rags... any interest?

Hummm, would he be better than Hlavac, Karlsson, or Ouellet?

[timothy]

Malik's a defenseman.

[Jester47]

Malik's a defenseman.

I knew that... somewhere in the back of my head I knew that. If you could have seen me reading your post then you would have also seen me slapping my forehead!

Is this day over yet?!?!?! :D

[Hoek]

If I were Buffalo I don't do that deal (though I wouldn't immediately hang up the phone either), which tells me it'd never happen, but that's the sort of thing I'd be looking for if we were moving Brad or Marty. Of course there's also the NTC's in the way..

After that infamous between the legs shootout goal Malik had I wouldn't entirely blame you for getting confused, Jester.. Heck maybe he COULD do better than them. :)

[Sotnos]

I honestly don't know who this blogger is, but he thinks we're getting Ray Emery. Link (http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=12926) I can't see Feaster/Torts wanting Emery, god knows I sure as hell don't.

Emery just showed up late for practice for the 2nd time this season, for which the team fined him $14k, in addition to not going to any optional skates & being first off the ice & last on. His attitude problems are the top story at TSN right now.

[CTLightning26]

I honestly don't know who this blogger is, but he thinks we're getting Ray Emery. Link (http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=12926) I can't see Feaster/Torts wanting Emery, god knows I sure as hell don't.

Emery just showed up late for practice for the 2nd time this season, for which the team fined him $14k, in addition to not going to any optional skates & being first off the ice & last on. His attitude problems are the top story at TSN right now.

It's probably just someone who knows nothing thinking, well, Emery will be traded and who needs a goalie?
It would be a real chance putting Torts and Emery on the same team of course, but if they made us an incredible offer, like - Prospal, Karlsson, Denis for Emery and a No. 2 - it might be worth a chance. But I doubt they'd be that generous.

[Hoek]

If the Lightning didn't want Bryzgalov because he was supposedly adamant about being the #1, then there's no way at all they want Emery. Ilya seems like a lot more cool headed and easy going guy than Ray, and didn't openly break any rules.

[Sotnos]

If the Lightning didn't want Bryzgalov because he was supposedly adamant about being the #1, then there's no way at all they want Emery. Ilya seems like a lot more cool headed and easy going guy than Ray, and didn't openly break any rules.
Exactly. This is just some wishful thinking if you ask me, pick up two great players for their stretch run & get rid of a problem. I don't care what the offer is, I don't want that guy and I can't see Feaster wanting him at all.

[jaydeedub]

Forget that crap. I'm done with the Bolts being the "tryouts" for NHL goalies. It's be great to finally land a true #1 goalie that the team can play with some confidence in front of--and someone who can be a real mentor to Ramo as he backs him up. The only problem is how do the Bolts aquire that #1 goalie? I looked at the UFA, RFA goalie list for next season (http://www.nhlscap.com/2008fa_position.htm#goalie) and to be honest I didn't like it much. So what to do to get a #1? They don't really have the cap space to get one now unless they trade a lot of salary back that way...
People are dreaming if anyone would take Denis. We'd have to take someone back for the same money AND value.

[pete]

Versus repeats the St. Louis for Turco rumor, and Feaster said he'd consider moving one of the big three.

Let me just go on the record: if he gives up St. Louis for Turco he should be sent packing before the fax machine beeps that the transmittal went through.

[astro]

I agree. I would rather watch Ramo develop than watch Marty Turco. The one thing that announcers fail to realize is that, besides Vinny and Marty, nobody is setting the world on fire offensively. Who do we have to replace the production that Marty provides? Nobody.

[WaiverWire]

And after the play of Boyle tonight I would have to say this is one that you try anything to get him to stay. Now with that said I have to say that Vinny is the team, he is the one you build around. Marty next year is going to be making only $4,000,000 which is very cheap for a player like him. That leaves you with Brad and that huge salary. If he could be moved he is the one I would be looking at. If not, you have to look at Boyle. With the money crunch the Denis deal looks worse and worse. It would be nice if Brad could bring an upgrade in goal, another player in a pick or two. If we can go into next season with a true goalie teaching Ramo, Vinny, Marty and Dan we have something to build around. Then if we use our picks wisely we can replace Marty and Dan with players from within which would save us a ton of money to spend elsewhere.

Just my two cents for what it is worth.

[Jester47]

I agree. I would rather watch Ramo develop than watch Marty Turco. The one thing that announcers fail to realize is that, besides Vinny and Marty, nobody is setting the world on fire offensively. Who do we have to replace the production that Marty provides? Nobody.

Right on, you move Marty for a goalie and then you suddenly need two scoring wingers, one for Vinny and still one for Brad. So instead of loseing 4-2 you lose 2-1... You still have to score goals to win.

That is unless of course they finally put Killer on Vinny's line, then all would be right in Tort's (or Fester, which ever has the man crush on him) world.

[WaiverWire]

Why move a player like Marty who is set to only make $4,000,000 next year?

[Sotnos]

Why move a player like Marty who is set to only make $4,000,000 next year?
Because we are only here to give, not to receive! :D That seems to be the thinking behind a lot of these trade ideas anyway.

Not a rumor, but I found this question in TSN's mailbag an interesting example of wishful thinking:

Scott, Do you think either (or both) the Rangers and Tampa would be interested in a trade of Al Montoya (First Round pick, playing in Hartford b/c of Lundqvist) for Martin St. Louis? Tampa could shed salary and pick up a good goalie, and the Rangers, who inexplicably still need more scoring, could pick up an all-star forward? It could look like a Ranger trade from the old days, but it might produce results. The top two lines could look like this: Straka, Gomez, Jagr and St. Louis, Drury, Shanahan. I don't know, however, if the Rangers could fit St. Louis under the cap. Thanks, Bill G.

Bill, While that move would theoretically address some glaring needs of the Rangers and Lightning, I'd think that the Lightning would want a more proven commodity if they were going to surrender their second-leading scorer. On top of that, the Rangers are pretty close to the salary cap right now and would likely have trouble squeezing St. Louis' salary ($5.25-million cap number) under the cap unless they made additional moves or sent some salaries back to Tampa Bay as part of the deal. I'm also not sure the Lightning, in last place in the East and trying to secure new ownership, are in much of a position to unload quality players that are under contract. - SC
Poor answer since an unproven prospect goalie isn't exactly a "glaring need", but at least he shot the guy down.

[CTLightning26]

I want Marty St. Louis.
I don't want Turco, unless they want to give him to us for Prospal, Gratton and Holmer.
--
I think the Rangers could have interest in Kuba. I'd take Malik back (expiring contract) if they threw in a No. 2 or one of their forward prospects (Callahan, Moore, Asimov). Maybe we could get Prucha or Dawes if we sweetened the deal.
--
It sounds like Prospal is a top commodity right now. Another couple losses here and I'd start the bidding war. No less than a No. 2 and I might ask for a No. 2 and 5.

[Bolthed]

I know it's Eklund, but I recall him speculating (that's all he does) that Feaster was talking to Phoenix and Nashville about Richards. IMO, those are two good teams to match up with on a trade for one or two young offensive players.

Prepare yourself for a possibly underwheming Richie trade. No team is going to want to take on that salary with his slumping production AND give up too much in return. But I'd bet we could get at least one nice player and another contributor back.

[pete]

Can Nashville really afford him?

I'd ask for Mueller plus one out of Hanzal or Wheeler for Richards if Phoenix is the trade partner. They might not even do Mueller straight up though.

[CTLightning26]

Can Nashville really afford him?

I'd ask for Mueller plus one out of Hanzal or Wheeler for Richards if Phoenix is the trade partner. They might not even do Mueller straight up though.

I've always thought the Coyotes was the spot to try and move Richy. Gretz isn't shy with trades.
It's possible they might be willing to part with Mueller with Turis coming.
Mueller could be a good one.
I haven't seen enough of Wheeler and Hanzal. Wheeler has good size and decent numbers at MInnesota.
But Gretz might be willing because he's had Richy with the national team and knows him well.
we could sweeten it with Kuba or have them take Denis off our hands and take a little less.

[timothy]

Can Nashville really afford him?

Well, NAS is now under new ownership and there was always the underlying talk that they would take the team off the cap floor once they assumed the reigns. Still waiting for definitive word on that.

However, their first act as new owners was to give Legwand that phat-assed big contract extension, and you really wonder if they would be interested in Richards with both Arnott and Legwand. You don't give a guy a contract like Legwand's and then acquire another center that would push him down to the third line. I don't buy NAS as potential home for Richards not because of his salary, but because Legwand's extension tells everyone they are set at center for the next five years.

Then again, they gave Vokoun a big ole phat contract extension and then traded him to the Panthers during the salary dismantling last summer. I guess there's always that possibility of trading Richards to NAS for Legwand + prospect (Hornqvist or Santorelli) which would bring the 1998 #1 and #2 overall picks to TBL. Legwand has surely underachieved in NAS. Would a change of scenery and change of system help him blossom? Up for debate. I'd like to Santorelli in our system, though -- RW'er with great hands and great wheels. Hornqvist is NHL-ready now, so I doubt you can get him along with Legwand.

[CTLightning26]

Arnott could probably play the wing.
Arnott and Legwand will have reasonable cap numbers (4.5).
Don't think they would trade Legwand after giving him a long-term deal.
still think Phoenix is more logical.

[chad]

If it HAS to happen, Phoenix is a good choice. They have a good amount of top prospects and young NHLers.

Teams that young will a lot of times trade a few pieces of youth for quality experience. Richards would fit the bill nicely.

[Bolthed]

have them take Denis off our hands and take a little less.

I sure wish there was a way that every time someone mentioned a team accepting Denis in a trade their computer would somehow poke them with a stick.:boink:

[chad]

Maybe Johnstown or Gwinnett will trade for him.

[CTLightning26]

I sure wish there was a way that every time someone mentioned a team accepting Denis in a trade their computer would somehow poke them with a stick.:boink:

You're right, no one wants him.
But a team may take him if they have to give up less to us in a trade and they have a bunch of cap space. You never know if you don't ask. It's the only way you can rid yourself of him.
We can all dream, can't we? LOL

[chad]

Per the Trib, scouts or executives from Phoenix, Ottawa, Philadelphia, Columbus, Anaheim and Chicago attended the game last night.

[the_narrow_way]

Blood in the water...

[chad]

ABC News guy in Tampa (http://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=4038aaec-2e51-4130-aeb0-8a4ad8f27e96), Tom Korun, spoke with Feaster the other day and thinks something big is going to happen soon.

Korun, after mentioning, Khabi, Turco, and Emery, says:

If a trade of this magnitude were to come to pass, it will come very soon, or not at all. I would think within a week, 10 days max.

I see his point - if JF thinks the team can make a run, you do this early.

Otherwise, if you're one of the few sellers in the league, you don't start selling early.

[jaydeedub]

I sure wish there was a way that every time someone mentioned a team accepting Denis in a trade their computer would somehow poke them with a stick.:boink:


That's what this one is for: :deadhorse:



Per the Trib, scouts or executives from Phoenix, Ottawa, Philadelphia, Columbus, Anaheim and Chicago attended the game last night.

If Jay thinks they can make a playoff run, then they'd be after a proven #1 goalie right? Who do we have to give up to get such a goalie? And which teams from the above have such a goalie? Just don't want another move for a goalie that will end up going south.
I figured after the Sens game they were thinking more on the Seller side of the house. The team just doesn't play with enough confidence (because of goalie?) nor are they playing consistently. I was worried of another 3rd period melt down last night. This type of play does not make the playoffs. When does OK take over at the soonest??!? Sell baby sell, get some draft picks, get some depth and help for Norfolk and have a mini rebuild in the Summer. The UFA list has some pickings on it in most of the other positions. Though the goalie list is lacking in the amount of #1s.

[RSchmitz]

Hasn't Jay already said he has no cap space? I can't see him making a deal without dumping one of the big three

[jaydeedub]

Hasn't Jay already said he has no cap space? I can't see him making a deal without dumping one of the big three

That's the thing, if that's is the case then maybe he doesn't think he can resign Boyle for what he wants and makes a deal that envolves him and someone else (Prospal? Gratton?) and prospects and picks? This seems like it has the makings of a make or break situation for Feaster....or maybe not. He is still here with a cap limit budget. The only possible goalie who has a lowered is value is Emery, but his salary is 3.2 mil and until 2010. They'd have to do a trade of Prospal, Gratton and someone else to make up the rest of the cap hit. And do the Bolts really want to be tied to Emery until 2010? Could he play in the Bolts kind of system? Granted the D should overall improve with Boyle back.

And as TBFanatic said, look at Turco's cap hit. 5.7 mil. How could they swing that? Plus that is until 2010. Unless there is something else happening here we just don't know about, like the sale being completed somewhat soon and OK making some decisions.

[WaiverWire]

Hasn't Jay already said he has no cap space? I can't see him making a deal without dumping one of the big three

Of the big Three:

Vinny...... new owner wants to resign him for his hockey life.

Marty........is cheap next season, only $4,000,000

Brad.........moving contract could solve several problems, like bring a goalie and enough money left over to sign Boyle. ding ding ding do we have a winner?

[astro]

That's the thing, if that's is the case then maybe he doesn't think he can resign Boyle for what he wants and makes a deal that envolves him and someone else (Prospal? Gratton?) and prospects and picks? This seems like it has the makings of a make or break situation for Feaster....or maybe not. He is still here with a cap limit budget. The only possible goalie who has a lowered is value is Emery, but his salary is 3.2 mil and until 2010. They'd have to do a trade of Prospal, Gratton and someone else to make up the rest of the cap hit. And do the Bolts really want to be tied to Emery until 2010? Could he play in the Bolts kind of system? Granted the D should overall improve with Boyle back.

The real question is - would they want the character issues that Emery brings in?

Answer - No, he would be detrimental to the locker room.

[Matt]

Hasn't Jay already said he has no cap space? I can't see him making a deal without dumping one of the big three

There's plenty of cap space (about 6 million IIRC). He's usually talking about how they have a set budget and he can't get over it without consulting the current owners. Over the summer he said if there was a move that could make them a contender they would allow him to spend more.

[CTLightning26]

The real question is - would they want the character issues that Emery brings in?

Answer - No, he would be detrimental to the locker room.

You know, I'm gonna get bopped over the head for this, but... LOL :boink:
I might consider taking Emery if... and probably only if... they take Denis off our hands. His cap number is 3.1something for two more years. He has taken a team to the finals. Maybe a new place is what he needs.
Prospal, Denis for Emery and a No. 2.
Ottawa gets another producer up front and pushes a detrimental player out the door.
Just dreamin.
Emery comes to Tampa as the No.1, we talk to him, nurture him and the job is his for 08-09, sink or swim, while Ramo plays 20 games or so.
Might be a chance to take, but to me its better than paying Huet $5 mil or accepting Turco at $5.7 mil.
If he plays bad, you buy him out of the last year or trade him and Ramo and Helenius might both be ready.

[RSchmitz]

There's plenty of cap space (about 6 million IIRC). He's usually talking about how they have a set budget and he can't get over it without consulting the current owners. Over the summer he said if there was a move that could make them a contender they would allow him to spend more.

When I say cap space, I mean the self-imposed cap. If I can recall, Feaster said there is no room to add salary to the existing roster. I know that is contrary to what he said over the summer.

[Sotnos]

Just dreamin.
I hope so. I don't want that guy anywhere NEAR this team, and certainly not as a mentor to a young goalie. I don't care if he can stop pucks with his bare butt cheeks. :bootyshake: (there is an appropriate smilie for everything, well done Tim!)

It is not all THAT outlandish to think someone would take Denis, but you'd be looking at something like what happened with Cullimore (http://community.foxsports.com/blogs/Spector/2007/06/16/Canadiens_Trade_Samsonov_to_Blackhawks). The Habs & Blackhawks dealt their problems to each other, with the Habs taking on the responsibility (& cap hit) for Cully's buy out. We aren't going to get anything of value for Denis, but he's moveable if we want to take on someone else's problem child and give them an incentive. Depends on how badly you want that salary freed up.

[astro]

Let's face it, we will need to buy out Denis or find a trade partner like the Blackhawks/Habs deal.

(note, if the budget doesn't change)
I think the best thing that Feaster could do is trade Boyle. He can fetch a really good return. This could bring in a scoring winger for Richards and improve our prospect depth. Then, we could hope that Boyle is willing to come back to us as a free agent.

We need to focus for the future. If we manage to slip into the playoffs, we aren't going far.

[Coldrice]

I hope so. I don't want that guy anywhere NEAR this team, and certainly not as a mentor to a young goalie.

Exactly... imagine this being Vinny or even Roy... or (shudder) this as his tactic to mentor Ramo

http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/storyimage.html?id=333b4215-2e3f-4f20-aa71-cda8bdcaed5e&img=dc0f1be2-6535-440d-b5e8-6333e4ac2834&path=/ottawacitizen/

[Bolthed]

Knowing Feaster it's probably Boyle or Richards for Roloson.

And Eklund says were talking to Calgary and Chicago about a big trade involving Boyle. I won't hold my breath.

[jaydeedub]

Gawd, after watching Boyle since he's been back; I really don't want him to go. There's no one else like him, not even close to it on the team. And only a handful of guys like him in the NHL. His presence in the lineup automatically raises the D's bar up a couple of levels, thus improving the goaltending. Losing Boyle drops the D back down, so the Bolts would need a heck of a goalie in return to make up for it. Unless they've talked to Boyle about resigning him in the summer. He is a UFA after all.

[pete]

http://www.spectorshockey.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=123:nhl-rumor-compilation-for-february-3-2008&catid=5:trade-rumors&Itemid=9

Spector has Jack Skille potentially being dangled by Chicago for Dan Boyle. Skille was compared to Bill Guerin a couple of drafts back by Red Line.

[CTLightning26]

http://www.spectorshockey.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=123:nhl-rumor-compilation-for-february-3-2008&catid=5:trade-rumors&Itemid=9

Spector has Jack Skille potentially being dangled by Chicago for Dan Boyle. Skille was compared to Bill Guerin a couple of drafts back by Red Line.


Skille and picks (1 and 3??) might interest me.

[chad]

http://www.spectorshockey.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=123:nhl-rumor-compilation-for-february-3-2008&catid=5:trade-rumors&Itemid=9

Spector has Jack Skille potentially being dangled by Chicago for Dan Boyle. Skille was compared to Bill Guerin a couple of drafts back by Red Line.

Interesting - and IMO, just the type of prospect we need (winger, knocking at the door, good upside, speed). Kind of off to a slow start to his pro career, but nabbing a top-10 pick for a pending UFA is a good thing.

Drive up the price.

[CTLightning26]

At this point, not sure Chicago is gonna be a buyer.
Unless they offer a huge deal to the Bolts for Boyle, with a 48-hour window to negotiate with him on a long-term deal. Not sure the NHL allows that though.

[PEIBolt]

From what I hear, Koules wants to keep Boyle in the fold.

[Randy]

If Koules wants to keep Boyle around, it is a strong indicator that he plans to go well beyond this year's self imposed 44 mil cost cap. But a word to the wise, he'll not only need to spend on Boyle, but also on some others to meet the other obvious needs of the Bolts. So he can't just resign Boyle and stand pat.

[pete]

If Koules wants to keep Boyle, and is committed to paying for him, then they should absolutely hold onto him. The ball has totally been in OK's court on this the whole time.

[Linezman]

Neither the Lightning or the Islanders know if they are buyer or sellers.

If the Lightning want a real Goaltender...One of the Big 3 will have to go the other way..agreed?

I'd move Brad Richards to the Islanders for Rick DiPietro. Include Kuba some salt and pepper...include some other players (rostered or prospects or draft choice back and forth). We want players who will be UFA etc in return to free up cap space.

Keeping Boyle is do-able.


As for Denis he is going to have to be bought out during the summer (insert more cap space here).

[chad]

If Koules wants to keep Boyle, and is committed to paying for him, then they should absolutely hold onto him. The ball has totally been in OK's court on this the whole time.

If they hang onto him past the deadline... and then lose him due to a change of heart by Boyle or the sale not going through... it could set the club back considerably.

If this is true, then that sale HAS to go through and they need some kind of assurance by Boyle.

[Avery86]

That's what I'm worried about - Boyle deciding not to waive his NTC, but then gets signed away by another team in the offseason. I don't think that'll happen, but the possibility is there ..

[astro]

I saw this quote in an article on yahoo.

Turco, signed through 2009-10, could fetch some major talent, but there's just one hitch. Les Jackson, sharing the GM role with Brett Hull, said he's not on the market.

"We're not trying to trade Marty Turco," Jackson said. "He's a big part of what we're doing here."


http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news;_ylt=Aqp5CChWTmvA4xIlyqrLVJ17vLYF?slug=rm-turco020508&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

I hope they mean it.... I don't want Turco.

Dipietro..... :rofl: Why would they trade him? I would like Luongo, but that won't happen either.

[pete]

The Lightning are totally sellers. They have to be. They need to stockpile top-60 picks and salvage something from this season.

Neither the Lightning or the Islanders know if they are buyer or sellers.

If the Lightning want a real Goaltender...One of the Big 3 will have to go the other way..agreed?

I'd move Brad Richards to the Islanders for Rick DiPietro. Include Kuba some salt and pepper...include some other players (rostered or prospects or draft choice back and forth). We want players who will be UFA etc in return to free up cap space.

Keeping Boyle is do-able.


As for Denis he is going to have to be bought out during the summer (insert more cap space here).

[timothy]

If the Lightning want a real Goaltender...One of the Big 3 will have to go the other way..agreed?

I'd move Brad Richards to the Islanders for Rick DiPietro. Include Kuba some salt and pepper...include some other players (rostered or prospects or draft choice back and forth). We want players who will be UFA etc in return to free up cap space.


I think you're overlooking a major fact in that, even if the Isles are sellers, RDP isn't going anywhere. Why in the hell would the Isles give RDP a contract like they just did, and then move him at the very next trade deadline? They gave him the future-friendly long-term deal because they have every intention of RDP retiring an Islander at the end of his long career.

I'm sure the Bolts can trade for an established #1 goalie, but IMO you need to look somewhere else than on the Island. Just because a team is a *seller* at the trade deadline doesn't mean just anyone is available on their roster.

I'd say look more towards a team like MIN who could use a guy like Richards to center their big gun wingers like Gaborik and Demitra. MIN also has a couple of *good* young goalies in Nicklas Backstrom and Josh Harding who are basically splitting time (like Fernandez and Roloson did). A Richards for Backstrom deal would be more realistic, but I'm not so sure that MIN is quite ready to hand over the nets to Harding. The $$ is bit lopsided, so perhaps that has to be evened up somehow. Backstrom has one more year left on a $3.1M deal and then he is UFA Summer of 2009. Perhaps you try to get Backstrom + Belanger for Richards + ???

[PEIBolt]

This from Jordan at Hockeybuzz: "Tampa Bay sends Vincent Lecavalier and the rights to goaltender Riku Helenius to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, Marc-Andre Fleury and a 1st round draft pick.''

He's just having fun with a suggested blockbuster of a deal but....yikes!!

[timothy]

This from Jordan at Hockeybuzz: "Tampa Bay sends Vincent Lecavalier and the rights to goaltender Riku Helenius to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, Marc-Andre Fleury and a 1st round draft pick.''

He's just having fun with a suggested blockbuster of a deal but....yikes!!

Jordan should spend a few minutes on the BoltProspects web site. Riku is already under contract. We don't just own his rights, he signed on the dotted line last summer.

[CTLightning26]

[QUOTE=Linezman;928]

I'd move Brad Richards to the Islanders for Rick DiPietro. Include Kuba some salt and pepper...include some other players (rostered or prospects or draft choice back and forth). We want players who will be UFA etc in return to free up cap space.

[QUOTE]

You know what DiPietro's contract is? He is going nowhere for a long time.

[Bolthed]

I'd say look more towards a team like MIN who could use a guy like Richards to center their big gun wingers like Gaborik and Demitra. MIN also has a couple of *good* young goalies in Nicklas Backstrom and Josh Harding who are basically splitting time (like Fernandez and Roloson did). A Richards for Backstrom deal would be more realistic, but I'm not so sure that MIN is quite ready to hand over the nets to Harding. The $$ is bit lopsided, so perhaps that has to be evened up somehow. Backstrom has one more year left on a $3.1M deal and then he is UFA Summer of 2009. Perhaps you try to get Backstrom + Belanger for Richards + ???

A deal centering on Richards and Backstrom could work, but it would have to wait until the offseason because Minny would never turn a playoff team over to a relatively unproven kid like Harding. But Harding is impressive and cheaper, so I could see them doing a trade like this. My problem would be with the rest of the return. Belanger is an injury prone third-line center. Getting him back to fill Richards' spot would be a disaster. I could see how the Wild would like that, but the Lightning would be best off insisting on a younger, more legitimate top-6 forward like Mikko Kouivu or PM Bouchard, either of whom could be the Bolts' new second-line center. The jury is still out on Backstrom (I've heard critics say that he lacks quickness), so if Richards can't fetch Backstrom and a solid, young forward then the Bolts would be better off saying "no thanks" than simply dumping a No.1 center.

More and more, I warm to the idea of using Richards to attack the Bolts' biggest roster issue. Problem is, there just aren't very many spare goalies who would offer the Lightning a clear upgrade. Minnesota is about the only one I can think of. When did the NHL run out of legit No.1 goalies? The only other option I can see would be to make a run at Huet, the top free agent. But that also would precipitate getting rid of Richards' contract to free up the money.

[Linezman]

Hummmmmm. Let's see many people are suggesting we move Richards or St. Louis. Arn't they supposed to be the BIG part of this teams future? Don't they have no trade clauses?

If Gretzky can be traded (I know not the same) anyone can.

Also 100% right I have never seen DiPietro's contract. Willing to bet you haven't either.

This is supposed to be fun and food for thougt. Fans having a good time.

What said is just as likely as some of the things I've seen here and other boards....Geeeeeeez It' not like I looking to bring Chris Kontos back to p[lay on Richards' line.

[chad]

The comment was referencing DiPietro having the longest contract in major sports history (15 years). It's an anchor keeping him on the island.

There's about a 1 in a million chance of DP getting dealt. But yes, Lloyd, I'm telling you there's a chance.

Richards contract will make it hard to deal him. But, as you said, you never know for sure. If his contract wasn't an issue, he may be the most likely of the Big 4 to get dealt.

[CTLightning26]

If Gretzky can be traded (I know not the same) anyone can.

Also 100% right I have never seen DiPietro's contract. Willing to bet you haven't either.

This is supposed to be fun and food for thougt. Fans having a good time.



No big deal. Just look on nhlnumbers.com.
anybody can know the salaries.

[pete]

Hmmmmm...

Mike Smith pitches the shutout tonight with Stephan as his backup for Dallas.

Holmer possible being showcased in net while Pro$pal drops the GWG.

Hmmmmm.

[vsala]

This from Jordan at Hockeybuzz: "Tampa Bay sends Vincent Lecavalier and the rights to goaltender Riku Helenius to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, Marc-Andre Fleury and a 1st round draft pick.''

He's just having fun with a suggested blockbuster of a deal but....yikes!!

:D

OMFG! Trade two franchise players to few nobody? Not even Feaster can be THAT dumb? Mike Milbury would...

[dannybolt]

:D

OMFG! Trade two franchise players to few nobody? Not even Feaster can be THAT dumb? Mike Milbury would...
That could be the most inane trade rumors I've ever read. If Vinny is going to Pittsburgh, there is only one player that should be coming back.

No, not Marc Andre-Fleury.

[astro]

the proposed trade to Pittsburgh was never a rumor. It's the writer having fun with some trade proposals of his own.

This was listed before the trade "rumor"

"***I am just having fun here, for conversation's sake, and am not lobbying for the Lightning to follow my advice one way or another. (Not that they'd listen anyway.) Nor am I completely insane (been checked, I'm clear) so please don't waste your time throwing such accusations around ...*** "

http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=13116

[CTLightning26]

How much would it take to sign Dan Ellis?
Not a bad option because, although he has good stats this year, he may not have established himself as a $2 mil per goalie yet. If we could get him for 2 years, $3 mil or something, you'd have him and Ramo sharing the duties.

[Sotnos]

How much would it take to sign Dan Ellis?
Not a bad option because, although he has good stats this year, he may not have established himself as a $2 mil per goalie yet. If we could get him for 2 years, $3 mil or something, you'd have him and Ramo sharing the duties.
Honestly, if we pick up another 1 A/B goalie who's playing well behind a VERY defensive-minded team, I'll off myself. :tsk:

[CTLightning26]

Good point Sotnos.
But.... How many teams in the league would you consider wide open and offensive-minded?
answer: not a whole lot.
The Devils have been defensive-minded forever. Would you want Brodeur?

[PEIBolt]

Honestly, if we pick up another 1 A/B goalie who's playing well behind a VERY defensive-minded team, I'll off myself. :tsk:
From your fingers to Feaster's ears. Three seasons of this is too much.

[astro]

Given the current status of the sale of the team, I believe Boyle is good as gone. This is something that I necessarily believe is a bad thing. Buffalo is looking for a first round draft pick, a player and a prospect for Campbell. I would think that Boyle could fetch more than Campbell can. Hopefully, one of the players brought in can play on a line with Richards. If we could add Brunnstrom, that line would be complete (okay completely dreaming there.)

Personally, I don't want to see the Bolts make the playoffs just to have an early exit. Next season, we will be in the same situation. Let's start trading, anybody want Prospal, Gratton, or Boyle? We need to build for the future.

[Sotnos]

Good point Sotnos.
But.... How many teams in the league would you consider wide open and offensive-minded?
answer: not a whole lot.
The Devils have been defensive-minded forever. Would you want Brodeur?
Sorry, totally missed this one a few days ago.

Brodeur is not even in the same stratosphere as the guys you are suggesting, and I don't think I need to outline why. Total non sequitur.

[CTLightning26]

All I'm saying Sotnos is that you can't eliminate EVERY goalie with decent stats just because they play with a defensive-minded team. Some could just be that good.

[chad]

TSN: Trade Deadline Playbook - East (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=229479&hubname=)

West (http://www.tsn.ca/fantasy_news/columnists/scott_cullen/?ID=229480)

TAMPA BAY

RFA: Ryan Craig.

UFA: Vaclav Prospal, Chris Gratton, Jan Hlavac, Tim Taylor, Andre Roy, Andreas Karlsson, Craig MacDonald, Mathieu Darche, Dan Boyle, Doug Janik, Johan Holmqvist.

Top Prospects:

Riku Helenius, G, Seattle (WHL), 19
16-9-6, 2.34 GAA, .919 SVPCT

Vladimir Mihalik, D, Norfolk (AHL), 21
1-10-11, minus-4 in 39 GP

Blair Jones, C, Norfolk (AHL), 21
8-13-21, minus-18 in 46 GP

Matt Smaby, D, Norfolk (AHL), 22
0-4-4, minus-11 in 41 GP

Dana Tyrell, C, Prince George (WHL), 18
22-31-53, minus-20 in 53 GP

Other Players of Interest: Martin St. Louis, Filip Kuba, Karri Ramo.

The Plan: Yet another season in which the goaltending has posed a problem for the Lightning, Tampa Bay figures to be a seller heading into the deadline unless they go on a serious hot streak. While the sale of the franchise will obviously affect any major deals, the Lightning have several unrestricted free agents that will draw significant interest heading into the deadline. If any of them can be moved to improve organizational depth, that would seem to be the smart move for the long run.

And since there's been so many rumors with these two teams:

CHICAGO
RFA: Tuomo Ruutu, Rene Bourque, Brent Seabrook, James Wisniewski, Dustin Byfuglien.
UFA: Martin Lapointe, Jason Williams, Yanic Perreault, Kevyn Adams, David Koci, Andrei Zyuzin, Patrick Lalime.

Top Prospects:

David Bolland, C, Rockford (AHL), 21
6-4-10, plus-2 in 16 GP

Petri Kontiola, C, Rockford (AHL), 22
13-29-42, plus-10 in 44 GP

Niklas Hjalmarsson, D, Rockford (AHL), 20
3-3-6, plus-1 in 32 GP

Corey Crawford, G, Rockford (AHL), 22
24-13-5, 2.72 GAA, .911 SVPCT in 44 GP

Igor Makarov, RW, St. Petersburg (Russia), 20
4-11-15 in 43 GP

Other Players of Interest:
Martin Havlat, Robert Lang, Jake Dowell, Kris Versteeg, Troy Brouwer, Michael Blunden, Cam Barker, Nikolai Khabibulin.

The Plan:
While the Blackhawks have faded out of playoff contention, they have obviously put some strong building blocks in place and will continue to build up the organization surrounding star rookies Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. At the same time, general manager Dale Tallon hasn't been shy about expressing his interest in acquiring a defenceman to run the power play, so the Blackhawks will have that as one objective in addition to merely finding value for their pending free agents.

DALLAS

RFA: Steve Ott, Loui Eriksson, Trevor Daley, Niklas Grossman.
UFA: Stu Barnes, Antti Miettinen, Niklas Hagman, Krys Barch.

Top Prospects:

Ivan Vishnevskiy, D, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL), 19
14-21-35, plus-18 in 33 GP

Konstantin Pushkarev, LW, Iowa (AHL), 22
7-12-19, plus-5 in 25 GP

James Neal, LW, Iowa (AHL), 20
5-7-12, minus-7 in 34 GP

Chris Conner, LW, Iowa, 24
6-12-18, minus-3 in 27 GP

Vojtech Polak, LW, Karlovy Vary (Czech.), 22
1-0-1 in 1 GP

Other Players of Interest: Jussi Jokinen, Joel Lundqvist, Mark Fistric.

The Plan:
Once the Stars get their defence corps back to full strength, this well-balanced squad could simply use another scorer to provide better balance on the top two lines. While the Stars' farm system isn't exactly bursting at the seams, there is enough attractive young talent on the roster to make a significant acquisition, if only co-GMs Les Jackson and Brett Hull can pull the trigger.

[chad]

This is a longshot... but considering his history with the team and "failure to launch" so to speak... do you think Chicago would consider moving a marked-down Ruutu? A team would acquire him hoping a change of scenery would get his once VERY promising career back on track?

I think, from TB, it'd take Boyle, but... just throwing it out there.

[gphockey]

Player $
Vinny 10 (will be next contract)
Richie 7.8
Marty 4.0
Boyle 6.0 (guessing)

27.8 Million

Goalie 6.0 (guessing)

33.8 million in 5 players.

[CTLightning26]

Player $
Vinny 10 (will be next contract)
Richie 7.8
Marty 4.0
Boyle 6.0 (guessing)

27.8 Million

Goalie 6.0 (guessing)

33.8 million in 5 players.

Can't be spending $6 mil on a goalie if you have those four guys around.
Marty's cap number is 5.25, too
I would think it would be more 9.5 for Vinny and 6.5 for Boyler, but it adds up the same.

[PEIBolt]

Saw this posted on hockeybuzz by Jon Jordan. Did anyone actually hear this?

"It's worth relaying here that both Phil Esposito and Bill Clement made known their belief on XM 204 today that Jay Feaster will deal one of "The Big Three." I strongly trust the judgment of these two esteemed hockey gentlemen though, if you read me regularly, you know my gut feeling on this issue. It's a waiting game now, folks ...''

[jaydeedub]

If such a thing were to happen I'd think it be Richie. His large contract would free up cash for Boyle resigning and a goalie signer or one coming back. I'd like to think, or hope Richie would be going to a team that needs a #1 center, which would be nice for Richards to be playing with some #1 wingers constantly. Although I sill wouldn't mind hanging onto all 4, but just find it hard money wise. Unless OK is going to OK going to the cap limit next season, even so would that be enough?
Does this team try to resign Prospal which I agree (think it was CT) that said he'd want at least 4 million.
Boyle should get 6.5 million no less, unless it was something like 5.7 or 6 million for a loooong contract.
Then there's a need for a goalie, how much and who?
Plus REAL wingers for Brad. Ouellet might start to work on his line, but Hlavac is a 3rd liner at best. Ouellet seems he should be a 2nd liner but his production screams 3rd liner.
Man this team is drama. Perfect for Mr. Hollywood.

If your cousin-law is traded PEI you'll still stop by from time to time right? :wink:

[PEIBolt]

I get a lump (of sadness) in my throat everytime I think of Brad leaving Tampa. I hope it doesn't happen but I understand why he's everyone's choice to go.

[CTLightning26]

I get a lump (of sadness) in my throat everytime I think of Brad leaving Tampa. I hope it doesn't happen but I understand why he's everyone's choice to go.

Honestly, it would be sad to see Richy go. A really nice package and Boyle's signature on a contract would make me feel a lot better about it.
If all that is true, I'm thinking Gretzky makes a deal for Richards. They need a veteran No. 1 center. Mueller has been playing better on the wing and Turis won't be ready to be a No. 1. Richards slots in perfectly for the yotes, who have a lot of cap space.
Don't think Mueller's coming back though. That kid is too good for them to trade.
We're looking at a bunch of picks, Hanzal?, Wheeler?, maybe a young d man like Michallek.

[jaydeedub]

Richards to Phoenix would be a good trade for the Coyotes. They'd have a nice set up with him as #1 and Mueller as the #2 center.
Guess I keep hoping for something at the trade deadline that wont ever happen; and that's a true #1 goalie coming back to Tampa. I've been hoping for this ever since that money whore (:wink:) Khabi left town. There's not many teams out there willing to give up their #1 goalie. Maybe if we send them Holmer too!?! :-P

[Bolthed]

Chad, if you haven't been paying attention Ruutu has managed to score all of 20 points on Chicago's scoring lines with some VERY capable linemates. So not only is he injury prone, he can't find his old game either. I wouldn't touch him with Bea Arthur's dick.

[chad]

Thanks for that visual.

I have been paying attention, actually, but think this is a situation where he's in ... well, not a rut with Chicago, but maybe a Grand Canyon-esque hole. If he's really discounted, I think he's worth a shot.

I have a hard time getting his goal for Finland against Canada in the WCOH out of my head.

There are others I'd rather have, obviously.

[RSchmitz]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4a/Bea_Arthur_87.jpg

[Avery86]

Insult to injury, TB.

[the_narrow_way]

I wouldn't touch him with Bea Arthur's dick.
:fear::lalala::frown::nono:

[TexasBolt]

I wouldn't touch him with Bea Arthur's dick.

Always fun to see an admirer of Jeffrey Ross's work. :shakehands:

[Bolthed]

Awesome. I was hoping someone would know the reference. I was going to say 10-foot pole, but I'm just not that boring.

[RSchmitz]

I have to look up the picture any time one of you use the name of somebody I do not know.

[Matt]

According to Al Strachan on CBC, a very good source told him Vinny will ask for a trade to a bigger market this summer. We know how right Strachan has been in the past when it involves the Lightning. :rolleyes:

I didn't see that part of the segment, but apparently there was talk about what the Lightning will do this summer as well. Apparently Feaster will be going hard after a #1. I only caught part of it where they said Ottawa is interested in Prospal and they say he's unlikely to re-sign.

[Sotnos]

According to Al Strachan on CBC, a very good source told him Vinny will ask for a trade to a bigger market this summer.
lol

"good source"=voice in his head

thought they weren't letting that hack on hnic anymore :puke:

[jaydeedub]

Feaster already made it clear in the local TB papers that his goal was a #1 goalie this summer. Old news just getting replayed for rumors sake.
VL4 is here to stay.

[Sotnos]

going by hf, people are buying this one hook line sinker

thx a lot strachan, you loser

[PEIBolt]

Pierre LeBrun (Canadian Press) said during CBC's Hotstove panel (immediately after Strachan spiel on Lecavalier) that Feaster will move one of the Big 3 this summer, namely Richards. As for the Lecavalier stuff, I swore after sitting stunned on Aug. 9, 1988, when Gretzky was traded, I'd never question a seemingly improbable trade again. If anyone besides Strachan, Garrioch or Eklund says it I might give it some weight. A lot of Hab fans are drooling right about now.

[Sotnos]

strachan is just a hateful little troublemaker who likes the sound of his own voice, he went on for months in 03-04 about us trading khabi, look how that turned out

has nothing to do with gretzky, no one is untradeable, has to do with that irresponsible idiot flapping his gums again just to start shit & making vincent look selfish in the process

sorry but i hate that guy, would pay to hear burke go off on him again

[Hoek]

Assuming you didn't just paraphrase it a little too much, what kind of trade demand is that? "Trade me to a bigger market. I don't care if they actually win a lot of games or pay me more, I just want to be in a bigger market."

Bigger market? Really? I mean really? Cmon now.. :rolleyes:

[chad]

On Yahoo today:

Lightning interested in Theodore, Roloson?

The Tampa Bay Lightning still need a goalie if they want to nose into this year's playoffs, and rumors have then sniffing around Colorado's Jose Theodore and Edmonton's Dwayne Roloson according to the Boston Globe.
Source: Boston Globe



Is common sense lost on these people?

[CTLightning26]

On Yahoo today:

Lightning interested in Theodore, Roloson?

The Tampa Bay Lightning still need a goalie if they want to nose into this year's playoffs, and rumors have then sniffing around Colorado's Jose Theodore and Edmonton's Dwayne Roloson according to the Boston Globe.
Source: Boston Globe



Is common sense lost on these people?

Yeah, these Sunday columnists just throw out things like that to fill space.
I wouldn't rule out those two guys entirely, but an Edmonton deal would have to be a real juicy one (like taking back Denis?) and Theodore would have to be cheap and short-term (2 for 7, 1 for 4) to even start thinking about it.
I honestly think Theodore is worth a shot, but a one-year contract is what I would want.
---
On another subject. Someone brought up Marleau's name on the other board. I had been thinking about him a bit in a Richards deal.
I would not take him straight up for Richy, even though he'll be making $1.5 mil less the next two years. Mainly because, Richy is a better player.
Something like this would be close for me
Richards, Holmer, Kuba for Marleau, a young forward (Pavelski, Setoguchi??), a No. 2 and 4 in 08 and a No. 2 in 09.
--
Marleau may have a no trade
They may want somebody better than Kuba, but they are looking for a top-four d man.
--
OK, tell me how crazy I am. LOL.

[Coldrice]

strachan is just a hateful little troublemaker who likes the sound of his own voice, he went on for months in 03-04 about us trading khabi, look how that turned out

has nothing to do with gretzky, no one is untradeable, has to do with that irresponsible idiot flapping his gums again just to start shit & making vincent look selfish in the process

sorry but i hate that guy, would pay to hear burke go off on him again

No doubt... if Eklund's silhouette had a comb-over it'd be a dead giveaway who he was

[chad]

CBC/Strachan (http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/story/2008/02/17/lecavalier-lightning.html)

"Vincent Lecavalier figures he's put enough time in Tampa and wants to go to a bigger market," Strachan said on Hockey Night in Canada's Hotstove segment.

"This summer he's going ask to be traded. He's done this before, but it didn't work last time. He wants to go to a bigger market. It doesn't necessarily have to be a Stanley Cup winner, but L.A., New York or of course, Montreal."

However, Canadian Press columnist Pierre LeBrun spoke with Feaster and doesn't think Lecavalier will be the one dealt.

"He does not want to trade Vincent Lecavalier," LeBrun told Hotstove. "He was very adamant about that, especially with new ownership on board. They do not want to lose this guy.

"They are going to trade one of the big three, but I don't think it's Lecavalier."

A guy wanting to go to a big market is a me-first guy with dollar-signs for eyes. You go to a big market for further recognition and marketing deals.

Vinny just put a butt-load of money into a hospital wing and repeatedly says he loves Tampa and has taken the persona of a team-first captain.

Doesn't seem to jive, Strachan, but I guess you felt the need to gain attention/recognition yourself and made up the rumor.

It's really quite laughable.

[Flycoon]

It's really quite laughable.

I find idiotic, moronic or drug addled to be better descriptions of this hoser's comments.

[Sotnos]

fun (obviously old) quote, though i can't find the video of burke going off on strachan on live tv:

"The very fact that Al Strachan reported it, in my opinion, makes it extremely likely it has no factual basis what-so-ever. I deny it specifically and categorically. I have never discussed Brendan Morrison with Buffalo, I have never discussed Bryan Allen with Buffalo and I have not talked to Darcy Regier in three weeks. So I'm shocked that a respectable media outlet like Hockey Night in Canada would allow this garbage rumour-mongering to take place. I'm amazed that whoever produces that show would tolerate this." - Brian Burke responding to an Al Strachan report on HNIC that the Canucks were willing to deal Brendan Morrison and Bryan Allen for Mike Peca.
:roll:

[PEIBolt]

In reference to Strachan, wouldn't it be intriguing if Burke does become the next Leafs GM?

[chad]

Which is another thing that blows my mind...

Why do the Leafs think they can pick and choose anyone on earth to come into the fire as GM?

Come in, get questioned 4x a day on moves you have or haven't made, take over a garbage team with few young pieces to build on...

Or stay in ANA with Getzlaf, Perry, Ryan, Bouchemin....

Goofy.

(not directed at you PEI, obviously)

[Sotnos]

In reference to Strachan, wouldn't it be intriguing if Burke does become the next Leafs GM?
lol, imagine the fights!

the latest, though it's kinda vague when you read the whole thing

is richards on trading block? (http://www.globesports.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080218.wrichards0218/GSStory/GlobeSportsHockey/home)

[chad]

Interesting.

I don't know if it was fact or speculation, but that's the first time I've seen Kuba as a definite inclusion on the trade list.

As PEI mentioned, I wonder if it's an if-then situation with Boyle. If he's signed, Richards gets dealt (for probably more than in the offseason). If he's not signed, Boyle goes, Richards stays.

[PEIBolt]

I'm starting to feel ill right now. Canadian Press also reporting Feaster is actively trying to move Brad. Feaster declined comment in the CP story.

[Sotnos]

http://tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=229989&hubname=nhl

The agent for Vincent Lecavalier says that if his client wants out of Tampa Bay – as was suggested on Hockey Night in Canada report on Saturday night – it's news to him and the Tampa Bay Lightning centre.

another: one http://blogs.tampabay.com/lightning/2008/02/vinny-knocks-do.html

[CTLightning26]

Which is another thing that blows my mind...

Why do the Leafs think they can pick and choose anyone on earth to come into the fire as GM?

Come in, get questioned 4x a day on moves you have or haven't made, take over a garbage team with few young pieces to build on...

Or stay in ANA with Getzlaf, Perry, Ryan, Bouchemin....

Goofy.

(not directed at you PEI, obviously)

I know. And the climate, too.

[CTLightning26]

Interesting.

I don't know if it was fact or speculation, but that's the first time I've seen Kuba as a definite inclusion on the trade list.

.

My prayers may have been answered.
:pop2:

[PEIBolt]

Which is another thing that blows my mind...

Why do the Leafs think they can pick and choose anyone on earth to come into the fire as GM?

Come in, get questioned 4x a day on moves you have or haven't made, take over a garbage team with few young pieces to build on...

Or stay in ANA with Getzlaf, Perry, Ryan, Bouchemin....

Goofy.

(not directed at you PEI, obviously)

I know this opinion won't be popular with many but I'll bet there aren't many prominent GMs that would turn down the Toronto job. The chance to be the guy that actually does turn the biggest market around is pretty tempting. On the other hand, I can't fault the Leafs organization for wanting to pursue anyone, under contract at present or not.
I don't think I have the Leaf blinders on, I think there are a few teams around the league that would be considered plum assignments.

[chad]

You could turn around the team and win a Cup in Toronto and the fans would be calling for your head after a lackluster Blue-White scrimmage in camp the following year.

It's a death wish.

[chad]

Ottawa supposedly one of 8 teams that have shown interest in Prospal.

Their TSN trade "book":

OTTAWA

RFA: Antoine Vermette, Brian McGrattan, Andrej Meszaros.

UFA: Cory Stillman, Chris Kelly, Shean Donovan, Randy Robitaille, Wade Redden, Mike Commodore, Luke Richardson.

Top Prospects:

Brian Lee, D, Binghamton (AHL), 20
3-22-25, minus-4 in 51 GP

Ilya Zubov, Binghamton (AHL), 20
13-18-31, minus-3 in 51 GP

Josh Hennessy, C, Binghamton (AHL), 22
13-23-36, minus-8 in 46 GP

Alexander Nikulin, C, Binghamton (AHL), 22
7-24-31, plus-1 in 44 GP

Kaspars Daugavins, LW, Mississauga (OHL), 19
33-30-63, plus-13 in 48 GP

Other Players of Interest: Nick Foligno, Cody Bass, Ray Emery.

The Plan: Following the deal with the Hurricanes, the Senators are already poised for a good run towards the Stanley Cup, but there could be further tweaking needed, particularly if the goaltending doesn't inspire confidence (and fast!). The Sens still have enough young assets at their disposal that they could afford to make another significant deal without gutting the organization so, for a team with Cup or Bust aspirations, that could still be part of the plan.

[CTLightning26]

It would probably be as simple as Prospal for a No. 1 since Ottawa is going to be picking 28th or 29th most likely.
If they were able to trade Kuba for a mid-to-late No. 2, maybe a Prospal for Lee deal would work.
--

[PEIBolt]

Eklund posted this today:

"Brad Richards is hot on the Rumour Mill today and word is that the NY Islanders and Nashville Predators may have interest. All indications are that the Preds are going to make a splash. They have the money and they have the new ownership. The impact that Forsberg had last year on excitement and season tickets in Nashville was immense.''

[CTLightning26]

Richards to Nashville doesn't seem to make sense with me, but i guess they could put Arnott on the wing.
Islanders? Gosh, what could they have to give? Okposo and No. 1, plus 2-3 more picks and a prospect?

[WaiverWire]

Could the Kings use Brad? Thinking you pull off a deal that cements getting the #1 overall like we did for Vinny. kings could also send a player or two.

[timothy]

Could the Kings use Brad? Thinking you pull off a deal that cements getting the #1 overall like we did for Vinny. kings could also send a player or two.

Feaster needs to make his mind up right now that come hell or high water, he's picking Steve Stamos this summer in the draft. Whatever accumulation of picks and deals needed to make that happen need to be put in place. Just like when Burke made his mind up that VAN was going to draft the Twins. It took a series of three/four deals to wind up with the #1 and #2 overall. It can be done. Feaster can do it, but he has to have a vision for it.

[RSchmitz]

I think it can be done, but I disagree that Feaster could do it.

[astro]

Could the Kings use Brad? Thinking you pull off a deal that cements getting the #1 overall like we did for Vinny. kings could also send a player or two.

I can't imagine Lombardi pulling a trade for Brad. He's so into the youth movement that it would be a shocker if he did that trade. I can imagine him trading down to pick a defenseman.

Could the Kings use Brad? Of course.

[PEIBolt]

I can't imagine Lombardi pulling a trade for Brad. He's so into the youth movement that it would be a shocker if he did that trade. I can imagine him trading down to pick a defenseman.

Could the Kings use Brad? Of course.

Gawd I hope it's not the Kings.

[chad]

Gawd I hope it's not the Kings.

You don't want to stay up until 2 AM watching their games?

[PEIBolt]

I hate the late starts, the damned uniforms (sorry Kings and Bolts) and the fact it's one damned long plane ride. And, just my opinion, I haven't felt that city embrace hockey with the exception of the Gretzky years when Sly and friends thought the game was cool.

[astro]

I hate the late starts, the damned uniforms (sorry Kings and Bolts) and the fact it's one damned long plane ride. And, just my opinion, I haven't felt that city embrace hockey with the exception of the Gretzky years when Sly and friends thought the game was cool.

no, the city hasn't embraced hockey. all the media cares about are the Lakers. hell, they don't even embrace their second basketball team.

late games? what is that? games either start at 4:30 or 7. it's nice. the only exception are those few time that I have to get up at 9 in the morning to watch a game.

i like the jerseys... i hope so, i have four of them.... Frolov, Luc, Brown and non customized one.

[Avery86]

Heh, well it's late when you live in Price Edward Island like he does.

A 7pm (PST) game would be .. what .. 11pm PEI time?

[PEIBolt]

He won't be going to L.A. I can't see Brad waiving his NTC clause to go there. That's pretty much near the bottom of my list of teams I'd like to see him go to. Sorry, but I hate the uniforms. I liked the Raider colours.
Anyway, the writing appears to be on the wall. My cousin who is well connected in Edmonton just e-mailed me and said the scuttlebutt is that the Oilers are interested.

[Sotnos]

ick. guess that would give them an excuse for jacking their ticket prices up again, "oh we've gotta pay richards, here's a 20% increase to watch our inept team." would he get decent wingers there?

speaking of inept, i was watching the la/phoenix game yesterday, please tell me that la is usually not that terrible. that was a brutal display. if i were richie i wouldn't want to go near that mess either.

[jaydeedub]

I just hope Feaster doesn't do something stupid and trade Richards for an old-n-busted goaltender (ie Roloson or a Khabi) or another unprovern guy on a defensive minded team. Should be a 1st rounder, prospects and/or players.
This is make or break time. I'd rather keep Brad than get something of lesser value even if his contract is huge. The guy's a Conn Smythe winner for crying out loud.

[astro]

speaking of inept, i was watching the la/phoenix game yesterday, please tell me that la is usually not that terrible. that was a brutal display. if i were richie i wouldn't want to go near that mess either.

i attended that game.... it was one of the worst games that I have ever witnessed. No, they are not that terrible. Of course, there is a reason why they are last in the league. when I compare the Lightning's future with the Kings, I am more optimistic about the Kings. They got some good kids coming up or already playing.

I don't see the Kings making an offer for Richards. If by some chance they did, Kopitar better be coming back the other way. That kid can flat out play.

[PEIBolt]

ick. guess that would give them an excuse for jacking their ticket prices up again, "oh we've gotta pay richards, here's a 20% increase to watch our inept team." would he get decent wingers there?

speaking of inept, i was watching the la/phoenix game yesterday, please tell me that la is usually not that terrible. that was a brutal display. if i were richie i wouldn't want to go near that mess either.

Can't see him waiving it for Edmonton. Not as much fun to visit as Tampa is either. Brrrrr!

[Sotnos]

i attended that game.... it was one of the worst games that I have ever witnessed.i am sorry you spent money for that, team did not show up!

Can't see him waiving it for Edmonton. Not as much fun to visit as Tampa is either. Brrrrr!
i can't see it either, thankfully

[PEIBolt]

FROM SPECTOR:

LA PRESSE: Mathias Brunet reports Tampa Bay Lightning GM Jay Feaster is determined to move one of his "big four" players as incoming owner Oren Koules intends to establish payroll for next season at $42 million. Brunet claims his sources suggest Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis would remain given their strong chemistry, leaving Feaster to decide between shopping either Brad Richards or Dan Boyle, both of whom have movement clauses. Brunet wondered if the Montreal Canadiens might have interest in Richards, although he noted he's only speculating and pointed out Richards contract of $7.8 million per season is expensive and he'd have to waive his NTC.

ST. PETERSBURG TIMES: Damian Cristodero reports if the Lightning are planning to re-sign Dan Boyle it would be logical to move Brad Richards to free up cap space. Lightning GM Jay Feaster declined comment and Richards said he's not thinking about it, and Cristodero notes the rumors coming out of the GMs meetings aren't quoting sources. Richards agent also said his client has not been approached by the Lightning about waiving his clause. Cristodero also notes the rumored eight year, $6.5 million per season that Boyle is rumored seeking although the defenceman declined to comment.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: My thanks to everyone who sent in the La Presse link. Two things to remember about Richards, his NTC and his salary. Even if he agreed to waive his clause, there aren't many teams that can afford, either now or over the next three seasons, to take on Richards expensive contract. Yes, it's possible he could be traded, but as always I'm not holding my breath expecting it to happen, since he's been traded by rumormongers since 2004. If Koules is setting payroll that low for the Lightning, Boyle will be a goner for sure, and if Richards and St. Louis don't agree to be dealt, the Bolts won't have a lot of money available next season to improve.

[chad]

42 is unfortunate, if true.

[Randy]

42 mil would be a step in the wrong direction.

[dannybolt]

42 is unfortunate, if true.
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss? I REALLY hope that is just a rumor.

[timothy]

42 is unfortunate, if true.

Unfortunate?? Unfortunate is what you say when you walk out to your driveway and see a flat tire.

C'mon, Chad. How about scandalous?

[PEIBolt]

I don't crunch the numbers as well as some do but if there is any truth to that $42-million figure, would I be far off in saying Richards and Boyle are both gone?......either in a few days or this summer?

[chad]

I'll change the adjective when the distant rumor becomes fact.

[PEIBolt]

It may be important to note, as Chad said, not only has the number not been printed anywhere else but no one picked up on La Presse's report, beyond the trade rumour itself.
The French media, in my mind, falls not far under what Strachan/Eklund and Garrioch have to say.

This shows how slow I can be......Chad, are the days of Oceanic39 done?????????????

[chad]

Romano of the Times has a column about how the Lightning as we know it must change (http://www.sptimes.com/2008/02/20/Lightning/Lightning_as_we_know_.shtml)

He comes across as a new fan who's really only concerned with bringing back someone he's heard of before, and is assuming we're all thinking the same thing. Keeps mentioning the possibility of getting a stellar No.1 goaltender at the deadline, then shoots that down as not being possible. Well, yeah. Any Tom, Dick, or Harry should be able to see the Sharks aren't going to give up Nabokov or the Rangers Lundqvist. So he says we should wait until the summer to deal Richards. (He also says Feaster has refused to talk to him for months - which I thought was funny)

I see his point there, if you're looking for a 1 for 1 deal between Richards and a goalie.

IMO, however, *IF* you're going to deal Richards, his value will probably be greater NOW, at the deadline, when a team desperate for a 1B/2 center is willing to sell the farm for a Cup or to save their GM job.

This will unfortunately sound Dudleyesque, but by collecting futures for Richards now (including younger player(s) able to play in NHL now), you then go to the draft with a caseload of [I won't use the word "assets"] you're now able to deal to teams wanting to lose salary for the upcoming year, gain picks for the draft, and/or create room for a youngster to make their lineup.

It's not a now-or-never deadline for the Lightning. This will be step 1 of 3 for them in the reloading process before September. Two is the draft (including trades and farm stocking) and three being free agency.

Oh, and the Times has a poll up asking "Which Lightning player makes the most sense to trade?"

The choices are Richards, UFA to be Prospal, STL, UFA to be Boyle, and Lecavalier.

Results thus far:

Richards 65%
Prospal 16%
St. Louis 9%
Boyle 5%
Lecavalier 4%


1. Habs fans must be voting for Vinny
2. By choosing Richards, are you choosing to KEEP your UFAs?!
3. It's been widely reported Prospal wants too much money next year and TB doesn't want to lose him for nothing. Yet he doesn't get the most votes?

[RSchmitz]

That has to be the case. I hate how there has to be so much delay between ownership changes, an official statement from OK or Feaster would end a lot of the negative speculation.

[chad]

This shows how slow I can be......Chad, are the days of Oceanic39 done?????????????

It appears so.

I will miss the days of being called "Cleutch," by fans thinking it was in reference to Dan Cloutier.

(And speaking of jerseys from a prior conversation... the last TB custom sweater I had was in fact... Cloutier.)

http://www.freethought-forum.com/forum/images/smilies/nelson.gif ME.

[Sotnos]

It may be important to note, as Chad said, not only has the number not been printed anywhere else but no one picked up on La Presse's report, beyond the trade rumour itself.
The French media, in my mind, falls not far under what Strachan/Eklund and Garrioch have to say.same here. i don't get why some of you guys are getting upset about it, really.

[timothy]

The payroll budget (or lack thereof) happens to be my hot button.

[chad]

Flyers are apparently one of the teams interested in Boyle.

They tried to make a deal for Kaberle before Modry, but Kaberle refused to waive his NTC.

In the Philly Daily News, Holmgren said: "We'd talk about a player like that (Boyle). He'd help a lot of teams and we would certainly inquire as to what it would take to get him. But if it got too crazy we wouldn't want to mortgage too much of our future for him."

Flyers deadline "playbook" from TSN:

PHILADELPHIA

RFA: R.J. Umberger, Jeff Carter, Riley Cote, Randy Jones.
UFA: Jim Dowd, Jason Smith, Jim Vandermeer, Jesse Boulerice.

Top Prospects:

James Van Riemsdyk, LW, New Hampshire (HE), 18
10-13-23, plus-10 in 21 GP

Claude Giroux, RW, Gatineau (QMJHL), 19
30-46-76, plus-24 in 44 GP

Ryan Parent, D, Philadelphia (AHL), 20
1-7-8, plus-8 in 52 GP

Andreas Nodl, RW, St. Cloud St. (WCHA), 20
14-20-34, minus-1 in 28 GP

Stefan Ruzicka, RW, Philadelphia (AHL), 22
11-19-30, plus-3 in 37 GP

Other Players of Interest: Sami Kapanen, Scottie Upshall, Denis Tolpeko, Ryan Potulny, Lasse Kukkonen, Nate Guenin, Alexandre Picard.

The Plan: Injuries have been a problem for the Flyers and Simon Gagne's latest concussion could spur a need for another forward. With a strong young nucleus in place, and more quality prospects on the way, there is no need for the Flyers to make a rash decision but, if they're going to contend, they may need a couple of players to take them over the hump.

In other news...

Sharks apparently offering Marleau to ATL for Hossa. Hossa told the AJC the chances of him re-signing by next week are very slim and would take a miracle (paraphrased).

[CTLightning26]

1. I don't believe its gonna be a $42 mil budget. That's just a hater saying that.
2. I am surprised that Richards won that poll by that much. I could understand it if it were like 42-41 with prospal, but geez.
3. Boyle to Phily? Boy, i'd hate to see that unless Van Riemsdyk was coming back here (doubt they'd do that).
4. I'll tell you what, Atlanta could do worse than Marleau for Hossa. Marleau is signed for the next two years at $6.3 per. If I were Atlanta, I would try to get something else though.

[chad]

From a Sportsnet article stating the market isn't as pricey as it was last year (of course, this is after Fletcher expressed dismay over the offers he received for Sundin... and after one GM said Sundin had 2 good years left)...

They mentioned Boyle/TB:

"The big thing is, Danny wants to stay in Tampa," said Lightning GM Jay Feaster. "He does like it there and we want to keep Danny. You hope that that's a basis to get something done. And yet at the same time, we recognize as does Danny that he's in a very unique situation. He's a highly-sought after guy. If I announce tomorrow that we're not going to get him signed and we're going to start the auction, there are a dozen teams that would queue up.

"They understand that and they're going to have to weight where we're willing to go with our offer and whether it makes sense to test the market."

Slowmarket/Sportsnet (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/02/20/lebrun_slowmarket/)

[PEIBolt]

TSN is reporting Koules has told Feaster to find out what he can get for Richards. Teams that are in the mix are Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal and Columbus. They also said Brad would be willing to waive his NTC, pointing to Columbus as a team that has come in at the last second and that Brad "is believed to be willing to waive his NTC.''
I know there are a lot of people who have given up on Brad but this is one trade that might just break my heart.

[Sotnos]

well, if he goes to any of those places (sans columbus *wth are they doing there anyway?!*) he'll instantly be hailed as the best thing since sliced bread and underpaid to boot, so that's something. ;)

watch him go to phoenix after all that

i dont think any of us likes this pei, truely. hate to think of this team without him.

[CTLightning26]

I know.
It is all giving me a sick feeling. Part of it is I'm worried they are not going to make a deal we/I like.
Columbus would probably dangle Brule and Brassard. Haven't really seen them enough. They might want to deal Zherdev?
Or, just a bunch of picks.
:noidea:

[pete]

Of those teams, Edmonton would be the best trade partner IMO. They've just got a ton of good youth.

[PEIBolt]

I'd bet every cent in my bank account against Brad going to Edmonton. My guess....Canucks, Canadiens or Jackets.

[Avery86]

Wonder if the Columbus emergence has anything to do with Modin? Richards was definitely at his best with Mo on his line.

If that trade happened, chalk me up as an instant Blue Jackets fan.

[pete]

Because he makes too much to play in Edmonton?

The way I look at it, they have assets falling out of their ears to make that deal:

Horcoff ($3.6M)
Hemsky (probably not)
Cogliano
Stoll ($2.2M)
Pitkanen ($2.4M)
Schremp
Pouliot
O'Marra
Trukhno

Vancouver has nothing I'd want, and unless Montreal gives up the farm no way should he be traded in conference.

Columbus has some pieces, but not enough proven pieces they could move. Maybe they lost their mind and are offering Voracek and Brassard.

[chad]

If this has to happen...

Please no Calgary.

I could stand Columbus, but I don't like the idea of sharing any kind of allegiance with the Ohio State fanbase.

Vancouver, IMO, has nothing to offer. You start with Bourdon or Schneider, but TB is not in need for another unproven dman or prospect goaltender as much as other areas. Mason Raymond's name has been thrown around, but no thank you.

I don't think MTL has much to offer either. I think it's the law to include the Habs or Leafs in every single rumor to get more clicks/views.

Brassard (who drew comparisons to Richards his draft year) and/or the injury-prone Brule would come from Columbus.

EDM is by far the best option in terms of return. Stoll would likely be coming back with a top-end prospect/youngster.

EDIT: Oops... didn't see your post, Pete.

[chad]

Because he makes too much to play in Edmonton?

The way I look at it, they have assets falling out of their ears to make that deal:

Horcoff ($3.6M)
Hemsky (probably not)
Cogliano
Stoll ($2.2M)
Pitkanen ($2.4M)
Schremp
Pouliot
O'Marra
Trukhno



I wonder if they'd give up Gagner. He's been on fire lately.

[PEIBolt]

I just don't think Brad wants to go to Edmonton.

[PEIBolt]

http://tsn.ca

TSN has posted the Brad story as its lead item and you can also watch the TV report off to the side.

[Hoek]

Wonder if the Columbus emergence has anything to do with Modin? Richards was definitely at his best with Mo on his line.

If that trade happened, chalk me up as an instant Blue Jackets fan.

Heh as much as he probably misses Modin, I'd be looking forward to playing with Nash most of all. Talk about some easy stat padding there..

[Sotnos]

mckenzie is a lot more cautious, only noting those as teams that "could" have interest.

i'm with pei, no one wants to go to edmonton, and brad has an ntc. it's his call

[CTLightning26]

I forgot about Voracek with Columbus.
The deal actually makes sense for them because apparently it is a good possibility they will send Federov to Detroit at the deadline.
Voracek, Brassard/Brule and a couple picks might not be so bad.
We could even send them Kuba to take Foote's place.

[pete]

I would want Brassard in the deal, because we'd need a potential second line center back. Voracek is over 2 points a game this season in the QMJHL, and Red Line compared him to Patrick Marleau last season.

Joakim Lindstrom would be another guy you target that they have.

I wouldn't mind finding a way to get Zenon Konopka in this organization either.

[CupChamps2004]

Somebody's moving on...

http://www.sptimes.com/2008/02/21/Lightning/Feaster_expects_to_ma.shtml

[Randy]

Pete, I have read up on Columbus somewhat since your post, they have the cap space to afford Richards. Plus Fedorov will probably be moved to free up even more space.

Brassard has some good numbers and is a center with great reviews. Voracek is tearing up the juniors and has great potential and was the 7th overall pick last year. Lindstrom is also appealing.

What is your take on Gilbert Brule?

Why not have Richards packaged with another player of a reasonable salary for Brassard, Voracek and either Brule or Lindstrom? I would agree with Kuba going, but that would mean the Jackets take on almost 11 mil in salary and I don't think they need dmen and could be a deal breaker. All of the Columbus players are young, have very good upsides and are extremely cap friendly. We get some really good prospects and have cash left over to get that elusive #1 goalie this summer.

[gphockey]

How about
Richards, Ward and Denis to Montreal
for
Higgins and Huet

We dump salary, open up room to resign Boyle and Prospal, pick up a goalie to hold down the fort until Ramo is ready, lose Denis salary and they pick up a backup. Higgins is no Richards but I had heard he is developing nicely.

[Jester47]

Plus Fedorov will probably be moved to free up even more space.

I heard several times last night that Fedorov is heading back to the Wings*...


* Different games watched on CI last night, no links sorry.

[pete]

I believe Gilbert Brule has an injury history that scares me off of him. A lot of scouts also think his offense isn't going to translate to the NHL and he's going to be, at best, a Mike Peca type 2nd/3rd line tweener. A guy like Brassard is definitely a scoring line caliber playmaker. He's very Richards-esque. I don't have any fear we'd end up having to settle for using him on the 3rd line.

[CTLightning26]

How about
Richards, Ward and Denis to Montreal
for
Higgins and Huet

We dump salary, open up room to resign Boyle and Prospal, pick up a goalie to hold down the fort until Ramo is ready, lose Denis salary and they pick up a backup. Higgins is no Richards but I had heard he is developing nicely.

Huet is a UFA and it doesn't make sense for them to trade him because you have a chance at the cup and you'd have a rookie in nets (Price)
I love Higgins. But Montreal won't be trading him in a package unless Vinny L. is coming back.

[pete]

Since when is Higgins Wayne Gretzky?

I have a hard time believing a guy whose career high in points is 38 is somehow untouchable, especially in a deal for Brad Richards, who in a bad year gets you no less than 60-70 points.

[gphockey]

Interesting story from TSN

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/trade_deadline/news_story/?ID=230150&hubname=nhl-trade_deadline

[chad]

After making some rounds today...

Larry Brooks (why is it there are more hockey reporters who's opinions mean nearly nothing than there are credible sources?) says the Rags are in it for Boyle, and that NY is Boyle's first choice. Oh, and the Rags won't give up any A list kids, but have plenty of B list kids as TB has a bare cupboard. (so I guess TB should settle for B list because Larry says so)

His article (http://www.nypost.com/php/pfriendly/print.php?url=http://www.nypost.com/seven/02212008/sports/rangers/rangers_hot_for_boyle_98556.htm) is littered with "coulds" and "mights" and "all but certains" and "maybes," so a lot of this sounds like sensationalist writer speculation.

He says Rags, Flyers, Sharks, Pitt, and OTT are closely monitoring the Boyle situation, and the Sharks are offering Carle. SJ is supposedly offering ATL BOTH Marleau and Carle for a Hossa-Holik package, and dangling Carle to BUF for Campbell. Why anyone still wants Holik in their lineup is beyond me. The red line is more energetic and effective than Holik.

(If there's some way to get both Carle and Setoguchi.... )

I saw where the Devils could be players for Boyle, too.

Also, Dallas was at the game last night, scouting TB again (likely Prospal, IMO).

[CTLightning26]

Since when is Higgins Wayne Gretzky?

I have a hard time believing a guy whose career high in points is 38 is somehow untouchable, especially in a deal for Brad Richards, who in a bad year gets you no less than 60-70 points.

I'm not saying he's as good as Richards. All I'm saying is you would think they wouldn't want to trade him because he is young, cheap and does a lot of things well for almost $6 mil less than Richards. I guess there's a sceario he would come back for Richards though. I just don;t see the Habs doing that, though.

[CTLightning26]

Yeah, I saw the Brooks article today.
I emailed him, asking who the Rangers consider Type As?
Just Dubinsky, Cherepanov and Staal?
Or do they think Dawes, Callahan, Prucha and Moore are untouchable? I don't want Montoya. Ramo is better, believe me.
IMO, the Rangers got Boyle and another top-9 forward, they will win the cup - assuming they are healthy enough throughout.

[Sotnos]

dreger column, tsn

http://www.tsn.ca/blogs/dreger/?id=230217

[dannybolt]

The red line is more energetic and effective than Holik.
Good one Chad. That's the first time I've laughed out loud at a post in a while.

[chad]

dreger column, tsn

http://www.tsn.ca/blogs/dreger/?id=230217

Although in the preliminary stages, if a deal gets worked out for Richards, its believed Tampa's asking price will include a defenseman.

I would have thought Dman would be down on the list. Later in that column they mention Vancouver being a good option because they have D to give.

I can see the need for a Dman if Boyle goes, but if Richards goes, it most likely means Boyle is staying.

What this means now is any trade involving Richards that does NOT bring back a dman will be criticized on Tampa's end.

[pete]

I'm not surprised. In looking at a potential Edmonton deal, I would definitely want Pitkanen back in the package, for instance.

[WaiverWire]

Wonder if any deal will have to involve more than two teams in order to get it done.

[RSchmitz]

Why a young defenseman? I thought that was the one thing the Lightning an over abundance of

[Jester47]

I agree, we need scoring before we need another young d-man...

[CTLightning26]

Brooks emailed me back:
He said Type A prospects included Dubinsky, Staal, Cherepanov, Anisimov and Sanguinetti
He said they would rather not trade Callahan, but could be coaxed possibly.
Anybody else is available - Dawes, Moore, Prucha.
---
One defenseman i'd take would be Edler from Vancouver.
Maybe Columbus is dangling Klesla?
Maybe they have a deal for Kuba for a pick and want to replace him in a Richards deal.
I like O'Marra and Schremp with Edmonton, but I don't think that will be the place for Richards. But who knows?

[pete]

If they trade Kuba at the deadline, they will need another defenseman for next season. That is why you are hearing about a defenseman needing to be a part of the package. They don't want to go another season having to play guys like Ranger and SOB 25 minutes a night.

I don't think the defenseman will be the centerpiece of any deal. A scorer or very high-end scoring prospect will be the centerpiece of any deal. But the #2 or #3 piece of any deal, logically, could be a defenseman.

When I was looking at Edmonton last night I was thinking Stoll+Pitkanen+Cogliano or Schremp+2nd round pick.

[CTLightning26]

I've never been enamored with Pitkanen. Why should I be?
If we were to get Pitkanen and Stoll from Edmonton, both are RFAs. I'd like to avoid that, but i guess if they feel confident they could get them signed at reasonable raises, fine.
Stoll may be good with a change of scenery.
Maybe Kuba and a three for Stoll and a four?

[RSchmitz]

I have a hunch that Feaster isn't too fond of Pitkanen. An ideal situation is if the Lightning can get back at least two stud young forwards, or one and a 1st round pick. Even if they deal off Kuba, I would feel much more comfortable going into the off season relying on our young defensemen than attempting to find replacements for Prospal and Richards. After the draft they could end up having two scoring lines.

[pete]

I've never been enamored with Pitkanen. Why should I be?

Two years ago in Philly (05-06) before he got hurt he was one of the two highest scoring defensemen in the league the first half of the season. In fact, I believe he was outscoring Lidstrom at the time (which is saying a lot). The guy's one of the best skating defensemen in the league, he's skilled as hell, and he goes for it like Boyle does.

If you're going to deal Richards you need someone to take over his point spot on the power play. That could be Pitkanen, and given the turd of a season he's had he's not in much of a position to ask for a big raise over the $2.4 mill he made this season.

It's probably no coincidence guys like Lupul have laid an egg in Edmonton and gone crazy offensively once they left. The same could occur with Pitkanen.

For Edmonton to acquire Richards they'd have to move salary out. That's why guys like Pitkanen ($2.4M) and Stoll ($2.2M) have to be in the deal. The youth coming back would need to be some combination of Cogliano, Schremp, O'Marra, or Pouliot. Pouliot would really interest me as a long-term third line center solution, but the fact he's already been given up on by one organization scares me.

[CTLightning26]

Thanks Pete. I'll watch Pitkanen a little closer. Maybe we could get him at Kuba's numbers salary wise if a deal is made.
I was not at all impressed with Pouliot in two games i saw him in springer. I guess you could take a shot at him as a throw in and a change of scenery, but IMO Schremp has a much bigger upside.
I kinda liked O'Marra. He's not flashy, but he seemed like a guy that may be able to be a third-line checking center that could contribute offensively. But that's seeing him one game. Don't think he played against Norfolk in my first trip to springer.

[Sotnos]

philly got rid of him for a reason, was reported his teammates didn't like him.

Here is a quotation from retired defenceman Eric Desjardins, who is now a columnist for a Montreal newspaper:

"The other courageous move was trading young defenseman Joni Pitkanen to the Oilers," he said. "He has all the talent in the world, he's strong as a horse and he's as powerful a skater as Al Iafrate was, but he is also very immature.

"As I said, Holmgren knows his people and he knew the guys couldn't put up with Pitkanen any more. They tried to give him support, but the youngster can't accept criticism and is very hard-headed. Even his (Finnish) compatriot Sami Kapanen had trouble with him and asked me to deal with it because he couldn't do it any more."
still don't see richards going to edmonton, so i doubt we have to worry about it.

[Jester47]

I'm starting to get the feeling that this year the trade deadline might be anti-climatic.

[pete]

I'm not saying the kid's a saint. Torts would have to destroy him before building him up again. However, as it said, the guy has talent oozing out his ears.

[nhljohnson]

I'm not saying the kid's a saint. Torts would have to destroy him before building him up again. However, as it said, the guy has talent oozing out his ears.

Hear hear. Joni among the rearguard would be berry nice; if Paul Ranger can post 30+ points here, methinks Pitkanen can as well.

It might seem like a lateral move to some, just comparing the salaries of Kuba and Pitkanen, but Joni has far more upside and growth ahead of him.

All this said, I still don't think Richards is going to Edmonton.

I really liked the idea of trading with Columbus, however, Richie has that NTC and I highly doubt he'd be excited about that destination. The teams do make sound trading partners on paper, though.

[CTLightning26]

I dunno if Richards would turn down Columbus.
Improving team, with linemate possibles like Nash, Modin and Zherdev. The No. 1 center role.

[PEIBolt]

From what I'm hearing, a Richards trade is more likely to happen by the draft/over the summer than it is by the deadline. And I still say Brad isn't going to waive the NTC for Edmonton.

[gphockey]

From what I'm hearing, a Richards trade is more likely to happen by the draft/over the summer than it is by the deadline. And I still say Brad isn't going to waive the NTC for Edmonton.


I was just going to post I have a feeling that if Richie wasn't gone by now, he is going no where right off.

Jay must be struggling to send him away at all. He must not have the deal he is looking for.

After all Brad is a proven vet, conn smyth winner and perhaps the best puck moving center in the league as well as a good fit in the locker room.

I think Boyle is given an extension soon, the team sale goes thru and then Jay sits down and sharpens the pencil.

[the_narrow_way]

Niced triple-post gphockey.

[chad]

: throws hats on the computer screen :

I'll respectfully disagree. You can't trade a big piece like that 4 days before the deadline, you have to wait until the deadline to let the bidding continue and more chips fall. Let the market establish itself, give yourself time to go back in forth with the highest bidders, then make your move.

Columbus is definitely in the running, as they had a scout and their player personnel director on the Island last night.

Article in CLB Dispatch (http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/bluejackets/stories/2008/02/22/jackets_notes22.ART_ART_02-22-08_C5_AC9E6GK.html?sid=101) says they're in on the bidding for Richards and Hitchcock is saying Nash could be a 50-55 goal guy with an elite playmaker next to him. (Didn't he already hit 50?) Hitchcock obviously has a favorable impression of Richards from the 04 CF, etc.

The paper also says...

It's also unclear what the Lightning would ask for in return. The team is said to be looking for a No. 1 goaltender and a proven NHL defenseman.

The Blue Jackets would not part with goaltender Pascal Leclaire, and they don't have much depth defensively. Howson has said the Blue Jackets' two top prospects -- right winger Jakub Voracek and goaltender Steve Mason (Canadian Juniors starter) -- are untouchable.

As much as I'd hate for him to go, Columbus, who has been searching for a true No.1 playmaking center for YEARS, would be absolute idiots not to take advantage of this opportunity to land a guy that next to Modin/Zherdev and Nash could be a 95 point guy. That line would easily be one of the best in hockey, and you're securing him for another 5 years to boot. You have a Richards-Nash combo sewn up. They would be fools not to give whatever it took to get him, including Mason or Voracek.

Oh, and again with the NHL ready defenseman being mentioned. I agree with what was mentioned about a dman being PART of the deal, but not the centerpiece.

[CTLightning26]

I disagree on Richards. That deal will be made just before the deadline if it is at all. That's when the best offer is going to come.
Reading on the Columbus Dispatch website, the Jackets are saying goalie Steve Mason and wing Jakub Voracek are untouchable. That leaves Brassard, who absolutely would have to be in the deal, Brule and Stefan Legein (a gritty third-line aggitator) for forwards. Perhaps they will trade federov to detroit for a young d man to put in the deal as well.
Would Vancouver ante up Mason Raymond or Alexander Edler? Maybe Taylor Pyatt, Graebner?
--
I hope Feaster is working hard today on two things
1. Boyle's contract
2. Dealing Roy, Gratton, Hlavac, Kuba, Janik, Holmer, Ward, etc. Don't give them away, but see if you can get some of those done before working on Prospal and perhaps Richards/Boyle.
IMO, The best deal for Prospal will come on Monday and Tuesday as well.

[chad]

Got my Sporting News yesterday and in the minuscule NHL section there was a scout quoted as saying TB should NOT be trading one of the big 4, that the problem is they are so top heavy and have nothing of value to fill in the roster. They suggested gaining different "fillers" (something which TB has been unsuccessful at the last 2 seasons) instead of dealing one or two of the big four "because you will never get equal value."

[gphockey]

Oops.
New board for me, still not sure how I did that.

While am here though, I sure would hate to be Feaster right now, I mean, if you're in first and chugging away nicely, life is good, given this situation he has got to be stressed to the max.

[Flycoon]

I dunno if Richards would turn down Columbus.
Improving team, with linemate possibles like Nash, Modin and Zherdev. The No. 1 center role.

Columbus is a nice town so long as you can ignore the goofy fans of THE Ohio State University. They take obnoxious to a level only seen in the state of Alabama when it comes to college football fandom.

[timothy]

They take obnoxious to a level only seen in the state of Alabama when it comes to college football fandom.

Hey! You talking about me?!? :boxing:

[DrBolt]

Haven't been to C-bus in years, but can't say I'd wish it on Brad, even with Modin (who I still miss mightily, BTW) in the room. I know of some hockey bloggers who tried to make the best of it when they got together at last summer's draft festivities.

[Flycoon]

Hey! You talking about me?!? :boxing:

You don't live there anymore so you have a life other than "Roll Tide" or "War Eagle" chatter.

[chad]

While am here though, I sure would hate to be Feaster right now, I mean, if you're in first and chugging away nicely, life is good, given this situation he has got to be stressed to the max.

For sure.

This deadline is HUGE for the future of the Lightning (well, potentially).

You have to choose between Richards and Boyle, and there's a chance you can't have either. You have to restock the system with just the right parts, and all the while you're working for two owners - one who just wants to see the bottom line, and the other who's sitting on his shoulder (or other areas) watching his every move.

And while Barber and the staff will make the majority of the decisions, everything rests on Feaster.

[WaiverWire]

You don't live there anymore so you have a life other than "Roll Tide" or "War Eagle" chatter.


Play nice......my daughter is a War Eagle

[CTLightning26]

For sure.

This deadline is HUGE for the future of the Lightning (well, potentially).

You have to choose between Richards and Boyle, and there's a chance you can't have either. You have to restock the system with just the right parts, and all the while you're working for two owners - one who just wants to see the bottom line, and the other who's sitting on his shoulder (or other areas) watching his every move.

And while Barber and the staff will make the majority of the decisions, everything rests on Feaster.

Yep, I can't imagine how much pressure there is on a Richards deal. :juggle:You have to get enough and you have to be right about the young players coming to tampa. I think there's a bit less pressure on a Boyle deal if they have to do it, because he's got 4-5 teams hot for him and a No. 1 and a good prospect won't be hard to get.

[chad]

I keep thinking about the Hamrlik deal as a comparison of how dealing a "prized asset" can ruin things.

Visions of Jason Bonsignore and Steve Kelly shouldn't be dancing through anyone's head, though Marchment had some value.

[Avery86]

I was clicking around the internet and it was brought to my attention that Anaheim is in possession of Edmonton's first round pick due to the Dustin Penner offer sheet. (In addition to owning their second and third round picks)

What that basically means is, if Edmonton sticks around in the losing funk that they've been in lately, Anaheim has good chance of picking Stamkos.

Guh.

But, I found a website via an Oilers forum that lists each teams draft picks for the upcoming draft. I'm not 100% sure how accurate they are, but it's better than anything else I've found.

http://www.faceoff-factor.com/transactions/914/2007-08-traded-draft-pick-tracker

Looks like Tampa has a 1st, 3rd, 5th, two 6ths and a 7th .. plus whatever is acquired from the UFA sale.

[timothy]

Nice link.

The Duck, Kings and Predators looking pretty good picks wise.

Looking at everyone's pick list, to me the Kings emerge as good team to deal Boyle to. They need blueline help badly, and they've got 1st and 2nd round picks to burn.

Wonder if the Ducks are interested in re-renting Prospal for the playoff run for one of their plethora of picks?

[Avery86]

If Tampa could pry that 1st round pick from the Ducks in exchange for Prospal, that would set them up very nicely for the draft. Two high first round picks? Yes please. If Boyle was sent to LA .. even higher high round picks. There's potential, if Jay can pull off the right moves, for Tampa to have a good number of picks in the first three rounds in a deep draft.

Come on, Jay.

[pete]

I believe the Lightning's 4th or 5th is also gone.

[Avery86]

I believe the Lightning's 4th or 5th is also gone.

I think it's the 4th. Dealt to Ottawa for picks in the '07 draft.

[Donnie D]

Nice link.

Looking at everyone's pick list, to me the Kings emerge as good team to deal Boyle to. They need blueline help badly, and they've got 1st and 2nd round picks to burn.

Sorry, but I don't understand why the Kings would want a rent a player for the next month and a half. If we can't sign him before the deadline, neither could the Kings. And doesn't Boyle have a No Trade? He isn't going to waive it for them.

[timothy]

Sorry, but I don't understand why the Kings would want a rent a player for the next month and a half. If we can't sign him before the deadline, neither could the Kings. And doesn't Boyle have a No Trade? He isn't going to waive it for them.

Duh. I guess I left my brain in bed this morning. :heeeelllllooooo:

[CTLightning26]

I think it's the 4th. Dealt to Ottawa for picks in the '07 draft.

Yeah, actually they had two 4s (i think they had one in the Sydor deal). But one went to L.A. for Munce (I think LA dumped it to Dallas, so Dallas may have their old pick back. LOL) and the other went to Ottawa for the two extra picks last year.
Hopefully, a bundle are coming for Prospal, Kuba, Hlavac, Roy, Ward, Janik, etc. soon.
---
Not sure if Anaheim wants Prospal back after he failed there.
I'm thiinking Pittsburgh, Dallas or Ottawa for Prospal. Maybe Detroit.

[PEIBolt]

Eklund's latest blog suggests Richards to Vancouver.....now he doesn't elaborate.

[chad]

Eklund's latest blog suggests Richards to Vancouver.....now he doesn't elaborate.

D - Edler, D - Bourdon, G - Schneider, C - White (slow start to college career - a few years off)....

If TB wants dmen back, then it's a good partner, but... I don't like a dman as a centerpiece. We need at least one young forward coming back capable of playing on the 2nd line now.

[CTLightning26]

D - Edler, D - Bourdon, G - Schneider, C - White (slow start to college career - a few years off)....

If TB wants dmen back, then it's a good partner, but... I don't like a dman as a centerpiece. We need at least one young forward coming back capable of playing on the 2nd line now.

Love Edler. Maybe Grabner, Jaffray?
I would doubt they would trade Raymond, but who knows?
I'd like to have Schneider. Saw him play many big games with BC.

[gwf82]

Raymond and Edler would make me jump out of my seat happy personally :)

[Sotnos]

getting schneider would be kinda overkill

[PEIBolt]

TSN reporting Thrashers have failed in their bid to re-sign Hossa and he will now be shopped.
********
On a sidenote, is Saturday's Bolts game the final one before the deadline? Is this a possible farewell match for certain players??

[Sotnos]

TSN reporting Thrashers have failed in their bid to re-sign Hossa and he will now be shopped.
makes things more interesting

On a sidenote, is Saturday's Bolts game the final one before the deadline? yes

[spork]

On a sidenote, is Saturday's Bolts game the final one before the deadline? Is this a possible farewell match for certain players??

I hadn't thought of that...I wonder what the team is gonna look like when I'm at the game wednesday night?!! :mod:

[CTLightning26]

Yeah, it will be an interesting. If Prospal, Richards or Boyle is a star, people should stick around and give them a standing O in case that's it.
I have a friend going to the game. Hopefully, he can get me a souvenir.
:clap2:

[Matt]

If Tampa could pry that 1st round pick from the Ducks in exchange for Prospal, that would set them up very nicely for the draft. Two high first round picks? Yes please. If Boyle was sent to LA .. even higher high round picks. There's potential, if Jay can pull off the right moves, for Tampa to have a good number of picks in the first three rounds in a deep draft.


It'd be nice, but I doubt that happens.

If Boyle and the team can't reach a deal, Boyle will get a nice return in a trade. There are a good number of teams who could use someone like Boyle especially a team like San Jose that has had trouble scoring all year. I'm not sure what Prospal is going to bring back, but I doubt it's a first especially with guys like Sundin and Hossa are on the market. I think a 2nd rounder and a B-level prospect would be a good return.

[astro]

If Tampa could pry that 1st round pick from the Ducks in exchange for Prospal, that would set them up very nicely for the draft. Two high first round picks? Yes please. If Boyle was sent to LA .. even higher high round picks. There's potential, if Jay can pull off the right moves, for Tampa to have a good number of picks in the first three rounds in a deep draft.

Come on, Jay.

Why would a last place team trade high draft picks for Boyle? Lombardi isn't stupid.

[WaiverWire]

It would be interesting as to what VinnyP could bring as when not playing for Tampa he has not been lighting it up that much.

[Avery86]

Why would a last place team trade high draft picks for Boyle? Lombardi isn't stupid.

Like Tim, I wasn't quite thinking clearly, either.

Heh.

[astro]

Like Tim, I wasn't quite thinking clearly, either.

Heh.

My reply came out a bit harsh... not my intentions. :sorry:

Boyle would be a nice addition to the Kings. They would try to obtain him through free agency than a trade. Also, they are sellers. They already gotten rid of Modry. I believe that Stuart, Nagy and possibly Cammalleri will be traded. O'Sullivan has done quite well when Cammy was absent for two months. I would think that he would be expendable and could fetch a nice return.

[astro]

from an article at yahoo.

"Richards still has three years at $7.8 million each on his contract, and he would have to agree to a deal, which he says he won’t even consider at present. Tampa Bay needs to find a way to clear salary and add a No. 1 goalie to the mix."

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news;_ylt=AtoHXHeuWmaFQXGyl1Z8PPp7vLYF?slug=rm-traderumors022208&prov=yhoo&type=lgns&

[jaydeedub]

from an article at yahoo.

"Richards still has three years at $7.8 million each on his contract, and he would have to agree to a deal, which he says he won’t even consider at present. Tampa Bay needs to find a way to clear salary and add a No. 1 goalie to the mix."

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news;_ylt=AtoHXHeuWmaFQXGyl1Z8PPp7vLYF?slug=rm-traderumors022208&prov=yhoo&type=lgns&


It's a lovely thought to be able to get a proven #1 goalie back. That is the one thing Tampa needs the most, and start the mini rebuild from there. But what teams can give up their proven #1 goalie to the Bolts now? Not the one's planning on to make a playoff run, and most of those are the teams with the proven #1's I'd want to return. That's why if Brad wasn't traded now he maybe traded draft day for such a goalie. Shoot who knows. Wish it was 3:01 PM EST Tuesday already. No, wish it was opening day for next season already.

[pete]

If Prospal moving for a goalie like Smith on Tuesday is the only "big" move the Lightning make (presuming Boyle is re-signed) I would be perfectly OK with that.

Conceivably the kid you draft in the first round can replace Prospal's scoring on the top two lines, especially if you can get Stamkos, and then you look at sweeping Gratton, Denis, Holmqvist etc etc off the books and using that dough to get better complimentary pieces. That's about $6 mill worth of crap right there alone.

And this would be a radically better team next season just by virtue of having Boyle the whole year and having Smith/Ramo between the pipes rather than Holmer/Denis.