NHL FanHouse

2-on-1: Playoff Pretenders & Contenders

Christopher Botta — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Avalanche, Bruins, Coyotes, Ducks, Lightning, Senators, Thrashers

Every Monday during the season two of our hockey writers will debate one topic. It's the 2-on-1. This week, Chris Botta and Adam Gretz break down who's for real and who isn't at the quarter-pole of the NHL season.

Chris Botta: In dealing with contenders and pretenders, Adam, let's start off with a pair of teams that no one in our business had sniffing the playoffs. I'm talking, of course, about the Colorado Avalanche and the New York Islanders. My position is that we are still at least another 20 games away from knowing if they are legitimate contenders for playoff berths. However, both should be congratulated for already making something of their seasons when everyone thought they'd be playing for Taylor Hall. Do you think the Avalanche and Islanders are for real as playoff contenders?

Adam Gretz: Yeah, I figured the draft lottery would be the only thing these teams would be playing for this season, but if I had to pick one as a serious playoff contender right now, I think I'd still lean toward Colorado, even with their rough stretch over the past two weeks.

I think the Islanders deserve a ton of credit for what they've been able to do this season because even when they're not winning, they're still in just about every game. But when I look at the roster I just don't see a serious playoff contender. At least not yet. Especially in a division that has Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New Jersey and the Rangers. I just can't see the Islanders competing with that group all season, especially with some of the other improved teams around the Eastern Conference.

"I said to captain Shane Doan, 'I don't think you guys are The Little Team That Could.' He said, 'Shush, don't tell anyone. I know we've got a good team, but we don't want anyone to know it.'"
-- Christopher Botta on the Coyotes' Solid Start Of course, that's not to say that Colorado is a slam-dunk playoff team, either, but of the two, I think the Avs have a better shot. Especially since they don't have to compete with the Atlantic Division teams.

Chris Botta: I agree that the 'Lanche have the better shot of the two teams right now. Unless Garth Snow decides to use -- or is allowed to use -- the $147 million in cap space he has to acquire a veteran defenseman and maybe also a solid forward, the Islanders are not quite ready for prime time. That's far from the end of the world. Thanks to John Tavares being even better as a 19-year-old than most thought, the Islanders are actually ahead of schedule.

There are three other teams in the East surpassing expectations: Ottawa, Tampa Bay and Atlanta. My feeling is the Lightning are the least surprising. When your lineup starts with three studs like Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos and Vincent Lecavalier, as long as you get decent goaltending you should be able to contend for a seventh or eighth seed. Cory Clouston has done a fine job with the Senators, and that's with Jason Spezza not scoring. I'm telling you, Adam, I don't know how much you have seen of the Thrashers, but they are fun to watch. I'll admit that part of me is rooting for them because John Anderson's style has a lot of entertainment value.

Are you a true believer in Ottawa, Tampa Bay or Atlanta? I should add that it's hard to get a read these days. Let's face it: with the shootout, a record like the Bolts' unwieldy 8-4-7 doesn't always provide the most accurate picture.

Adam Gretz: Of the three teams you mentioned, I'm definitely a believer in Atlanta. Before the season I had them as a contender for the No. 8 playoff spot (and John Anderson was my sleeper for coach of the year). Not saying they'll get in, but I think they can hang around, especially if they keep Kovalchuk (even if it's a Jay Bouwmeester-desperation attempt that ends up blowing up in their faces). I think their top-four on defense is as good as they've ever had, and Maxim Afinogenov is actually scoring some goals. If they ever get Bryan Little going again I think this could absolutely be a dangerous team at the bottom of the playoff picture.

I think the biggest surprise out of those three, to me, is Ottawa. Here's a team that didn't have any offense to speak of a season ago when they had a two-time 50-goal scorer in the lineup. Take Dany Heatley's production out of that equation and I figured the bottom would just fall out. Mike Fisher has had a nice bounceback season, and Michalek seems like he's starting to settle in as well.

Still, at the quarter point, if I had to rank them in order of playoff probability I think I'd go 1) Atlanta, 2) Ottawa, 3) Tampa Bay.

Chris Botta: This is the part of our conversation where I'd want to take a reverse-angle look and talk about the teams in the East we thought would be good but are near the bottom of the pack. Fact is, there aren't any. The only top-talent team that has only been so-so is Boston, but for all the Bruins' struggles they are 10-8-2 and in the top eight. When they get Marc Savard back, they should climb higher. So let's move on to the West.

Besides Colorado, the other happy surprise in Phoenix. While the Coyotes are a nice Cinderella tale for their Slap Shot, who-ownz-the-team existence, a record of 13-9-2 seems about right for them. They have talent, experience and one of the best goalies in Ilya Bryzgalov.

When they were in New York a few weeks ago, about a half-dozen reporters showed up at the Coyotes' morning skate at the Garden to write the obligatory stories about how they're overcoming the odds and some unique circumstances. I said to captain Shane Doan, "I don't think you guys are the Little Team That Could." He said, "Shush, don't tell anyone. I know we've got a good team, but we don't want anyone to know it."

Adam Gretz: Funny you mention the Coyotes and people showing up to write about them. I saw them in Pittsburgh during the second week of the season and there was nobody there covering them. I think the post-game locker room session had me, an AP reporter and one Phoenix radio guy. It was almost as if people had already given up on them.

For me, I'm kind of shocked by the slow starts from Anaheim and St. Louis. With the Blues, they overcame injuries to just about every player on the roster last year (or so it seemed) and found themselves in the top-six of the Western Conference. I figured that with a healthy team, young guys having another year of experience (playoff experience) under their belts would be huge. But here we are. I'm not sure if it can be blamed on the European hangover or expectations that might have been too high coming in, but a .500 record isn't what I had this team pegged at. Not at all. On the plus side, David Perron is starting to pick it up but guys like Patrick Berglund and T.J. Oshie have been rather large disappointments.

Speaking of which, what's up with the Anaheim Ducks? Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry are looking great, but they currently have the worst record in the Western Conference, third-worst overall. This is a team that knocked out the team that won the Presidents Trophy last year, and took Detroit to a Game 7. I think in the long run the Chris Pronger trade could really benefit them, not only with Luca Sbisa, but the boatload of first-round picks, but in the short term their defense has gone from a rather menacing group to one that is far less intimidating.

Chris Botta: You nailed it, Adam. There are several nice surprises this year -- Colorado and the rest of the team we've mentioned. The Ducks are really the only major disappointment so far. Wouldn't it be something if they decide to re-tool and move Scott Niedermayer to a contender for another package of picks and prospects, like they got for Pronger? On the bright side, Anaheim could re-build in two trades. I don't like their chances of turning around their season in a significant way. When Niedermayer started thinking about a trade and Jean-Sebastian Giguere said he'd rather retire than be a backup -- I would love to see the Ducks call his bluff -- it just doesn't seem to be their season.

Rapid Fire time. Individual performances at the quarter pole:

Biggest Surprises: Chris -- Matt Moulson, Maxim Afinogenov; Adam -- Moulson, of course, and Dustin Penner.

Biggest Duds: Chris -- Jason Spezza (one goal in 18 games), Michal Rozsival (sixth d-man making $5 million a year); Adam -- Mike Komisarek.

Player Most Likely to Take Off: Chris -- Phil Kessel; Adam -- Evgeni Malkin has been off to a slow start, he's due to bust out.

2-on-1: Playoff Pretenders & Contenders originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tim Thomas' Rough Night Leads to Improbable Loss for Boston

Adam Gretz — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:45:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Penguins, NHL Videos

To quote fictional hockey coach Ted Orion in D3: The Mighty Ducks (Hey, I admit it, I've watched it): "How long does it take to score a goal? Less than a second." That's a lesson the Boston Bruins learned on Saturday night as they were 0.4 seconds away from pulling out a back-and-forth 5-4 win.

Instead, a broken stick, a buzzer-beating goal and an embarrassing turnover from Tim Thomas in overtime led to a 6-5 loss in Pittsburgh.

Video of the insanity after the jump.

Just two minutes after Marco Sturm was credited with a go-ahead goal to give the Bruins a 5-4 lead, a loose puck came to Patrice Bergeron with less than 10 seconds to play in regulation, and as he attempted to shoot it at an empty net, his stick snapped in half. The puck was then picked up by Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin -- playing his first game in nearly three weeks -- who then took it the other way and slid a cross-ice pass to Bill Guerin who snapped it behind Thomas from the top of the circle just four-tenths of a second before the horn sounded.

If that wasn't bad enough for Thomas and the Bruins, just a little over a minute into the overtime period, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner turned the puck over behind the net which led to Jordan Staal feeding a wide-open Pascal Dupuis for an empty-net game-winner.

It was Dupuis' second goal of the game, and the win snapped what had been a four-game losing streak for Pittsburgh. The game was non-stop offense from start to finish, as the two teams combined for 11 goals and 66 shots, while no team ever held more than a one-goal lead.

Thomas is a fantastic player, but this is a game he would probably like to soon forget.

Tim Thomas' Rough Night Leads to Improbable Loss for Boston originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fight of the Week: Heavyweights

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Canucks, Ducks, Flames, Maple Leafs, Oilers, Stars, Red Wings, NHL Fights, NHL Videos

Every Friday, FanHouse sifts through the rubble and picks the best NHL fight, with the help of HockeyFights.com.

It's no secret what we're looking for in a good fight. It needs to have intensity, some good back-and-forth action, and there is some longevity needed. If two guys trade a flurry of punches for seven seconds, it's not nearly as impressive as a high-quality 30-second fight.

This week's top fight has a little bit of everything.

Beatdown of the Week: Krys Barch vs. D.J. King

King played in just one game last season, but he showed no rust in this quick putaway of Barch. Watch the fight here, but don't blink, because you might miss the action.

Runner-Up: Colton Orr vs. George Parros

While the fight itself was okay, the news happened when Orr shoved the linesman who appeared to be trying to break up the bout prematurely.

(Orr, by the way, is not going to be punished any further for that, beyond the misconduct penalty he got at the time.)

Orr and Parros are experienced at this sort of thing, and it's no surprise they can get together and give the fans a good slugfest. Watch the video here.

Runner-Up: Brad May vs. Tanner Glass

May held a real heavy edge in experience on Glass, so you might think he would control this fight. Instead, the youngster did very well against May, even ducking out of the way as May threw a roundhouse that would have knocked Glass into the middle of the Olympic break. Watch the video here.

Fight of the Week: Steve MacIntyre vs. Brian McGrattan

This was easily the best dance of the week. McGrattan is the better fighter, and he won this one hands-down. But it wasn't just about that. MacIntyre made a good showing of himself by simply competing, and he showed he can hang with one of the league's better fighters.

It's not hard to fathom that these two -- playing on division rivals -- will go again this season.

Fight of the Week: Heavyweights originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Predators Offense Continues to Struggle

Adam Gretz — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Panthers, Predators, Sabres

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our weekday look at the previous night's action and some of the story lines taking place around the league. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

Bruins 3, Predators 2: Entering play on Wednesday, the Nashville Predators, as a team, had scored as many goals (nine) as the league's leading goal-scorer (Alex Ovechkin). They have yet to score more than three goals in a game this season, and haven't scored more than two since October 8. That streak continued on Wednesday thanks to their 3-2 loss in Boston.

Through its first eight games, Nashville has scored just 11 goals, and because of their 0-for-3 showing on the power play, the Predators are now just 1-for-27 with the man-advantage.

Ouch.

Also: Scott Clemmensen's short night, Video of the day, and more

The Bruins, meanwhile, playing without the services of Marc Savard and Milan Lucic, pulled out the win thanks to goals from Michael Ryder, Patrice Bergeron and Steve Begin. Predators forward Colin Wilson, a 2008 first-round pick (No. 7 overall), scored his first career goal in the loss.

Sabres 5, Predators 2: Short night for Panthers goaltender Scott Clemmensen as he was pulled just two minutes into the first period after giving up two goals on three shots. Buffalo scored five goals in the first period on its way to a 5-2 win.

Clemmensen was making his second consecutive start after picking up the win against Philadelphia earlier this week, stopping 25 shots in a 4-2 win. Tomas Vokoun, who has struggled mightily so far this season, came on in relief and stopped 30 shots.

Ryan Miller picked up the win for the Sabres with 41 stops.

Wednesday's Other Games

The Islanders are on the board! [Box Score, Botta's Recap]

Minnesota knocks off Colorado in a shootout. [Box Score, Recap]

Dallas Beats Anaheim [Box Score, Recap]

Samuelsson's winner leads Canucks [Box Score, Recap]

Loose Pucks

-- Is there an upside to Sergei Gonchar's injury if you're a Penguins fan? [Pens Universe]

-- Cap relief for the Caps as Michael Nylander agrees to a conditioning assignment with the Grand Rapids Griffins. [Grand Rapids Griffins]

Video Of The Day

The Islanders get their first win, so let's give the video of the day to Frans Nielsen for his nifty shootout goal.

Thursday's Key Games

Capitals vs. Thrashers: Fantastic Southeast Division matchup as Atlanta hosts Washington. The Thrashers are off to a strong start, and they'll look to keep it going as two of the top goal-scorers in the league (Alex Ovechkin and Ilya Kovalchuk) square off.

Devils vs. Rangers: The Rangers had their seven-game winning streak snapped on Monday in a blowout loss to the Sharks. They'll look to get rolling again when they host their long-time rivals from New Jersey. It's also Sean Avery vs. Martin Brodeur, which should be fun.

Islanders vs. Canadiens: Can the Islanders start their first winning streak of the season? They have a shot in Montreal!

Predators Offense Continues to Struggle originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Penguins, Bruins Lose Sergei Gonchar and Marc Savard to Injury

Adam Gretz — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:10:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Penguins, NHL Injuries

Some pretty big injury news around the NHL today, as the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins learned they will be without some key players for at least the next month.

In Boston, the Bruins will be without their top playmaker, center Marc Savard, for the next four-to-six weeks because of broken left foot, which comes just two days after power forward Milan Lucic had surgery on a broken finger, which will also sideline him for more than a month.

Savard has seven points (four goals, three assists) in Boston's first seven games, and led the team in scoring a season ago with 88 points. One of the best playmaking centers in the league, this is obviously a huge blow to a Boston team that has been off to a slow start, losing four of its first seven games.

Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, the Penguins lost defenseman Sergei Gonchar in Tuesday's 5-1 thrashing of St. Louis to an undisclosed injury. Early reports seem to indicate that it's a broken bone near his hand, and Rob Rossi of the Tribune-Review reported Wednesday morning that the players have been informed he'll be out at least a month.

Gonchar missed 57 games a season ago and it proved to be a costly loss as the team struggled at times in his absence, particularly on the power play. The emergence of youngsters Alex Goligoski and Kris Letang should help to soften the blow this time around, while the team also has veteran Martin Skoula waiting for his first opportunity this year.

Penguins, Bruins Lose Sergei Gonchar and Marc Savard to Injury originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oilers Makes Most of Limited Chances

Adam Gretz — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Avalanche, Bruins, Oilers, Predators

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our Weekday look at the previous night's action and some of the storylines taking place around the league. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

Oilers 6, Predators 1: Unlike the Calgary Flames, the Edmonton Oilers were able to build a 5-0 lead and hold on for a win, as they crushed the Predators on Monday night. The 6-1 score is impressive for Edmonton as it was outshot by a 2:1 margin (41-20) over the course of the game. Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers stopped 40 shots for the Oilers, while Zach Stortini scored a pair of goals in the win.

After the jump: Colorado's special teams shine, video of the day, and more

Avalanche 4, Bruins 3: Craig Anderson and the Avalanche held off a third period rally from the Boston Bruins to improve to 3-1-1 on the young season. David Jones' shorthanded tally at the 16:50 mark of the second period proved to be the game-winner for Avalanche, which also received goals from Marek Svatos, Scott Hannan and Milan Hejduk. Colorado's special teams was the difference in the game as it went 2-for-3 on the power play and a perfect 5-for-5 on the penalty kill, including the Jones shorthanded goal.

Monday's Other Games

The Islanders lost their fourth one-goal game in a row, dropping a 2-1 decision to the Los Angeles Kings. [Box Score, Recap]

Chicago's awesome comeback. [Box Score, Gretz's recap]

The Penguins improve to 5-1 on the season with a 4-1 win in Ottawa. [Box Score, Recap]

Toronto remains win-less thanks to its loss in New York. [Box Score, Botta's Recap]

New Jersey comes back against Washington. [Box Score, Recap]

Panthers lose their fourth in a row. [Box Score, Recap]

San Jose hosts the Coyotes. [Box Score, Recap]

Loose Pucks

-- We're not even three weeks into the season and Carey Price is already under the microscope in Montreal. A bit over the top, I'd say. [Montreal Gazette]

-- Detroit Red Wings owner Mike Ilitch is worth $1.4 billion according to Forbes Magazine. [Mlive]

Video Of The Day

Brent Seabrook scores the game-winner in Chicago's improbable comeback win.

Tuesday's Games

Flames vs. Blue Jackets: The Flames are probably looking forward to playing another game so they can forget about Monday's loss.

Red Wings vs. Sabres: The Red Wings have won two in a row and look to extend their winning streak against the Sabres in Buffalo.

Avalanche vs. Maple Leafs: Both teams are playing the second half of back-to-back games, while Toronto is still searching for its first win.

Oilers Makes Most of Limited Chances originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fight of the Week: Long, Competitive Southeast Division Scrap

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Flames, Hurricanes, Kings, Lightning, Oilers, Sharks, Thrashers, NHL Fights, NHL Videos

Every Friday, FanHouse sifts through the rubble and picks the best NHL fight, with the help of HockeyFights.com.

Fighting will always be controversial. Many fans say that it's as much a part of hockey as the ice is. Others would rather it went away, even if they may secretly enjoy it. However, it seems that fighting is here to stay in the NHL. This week's card included a few heavyweight bouts, an unlikely matchup in Alberta, and a rather long, intense fight between division rivals.

Honorable Mention: Craig Conroy vs. Sam Gagner

Video can be found here. No, the Oilers haven't signed an enforcer named Sam Gagner. The young, dynamic center apparently thought it was his job to use his fists to ignite his team. CBC's Mark Lee was almost incredulous. The best part? Big Zach Stortini of Edmonton was a spectator.

Runner-Up: Jay Harrison vs. Milan Lucic

The video is here. Sometimes, a fight's quality is hurt because it doesn't last long enough. Harrison had good intentions here, but he was completely overmatched, and he ended up wearing the ol' crimson mask because of his decision to try to fight Lucic. Quality visual on this one, and great work by Lucic, but it was too much of a mismatch to climb atop the list for this week.

Runner-Up: Jody Shelley vs. Raitis Ivanans

Watch the video here. Shelley's teammate looked to throw an unnecessary hit on an icing play, and Ivanans did his job, going after the heavyweight and sticking up for a teammate. Good scrap between fighters who share space in the Pacific Division, so they're probably familiar with each other's work.

Fight of the Week: Zenon Konopka vs. Chris Thorburn

Konopka has never played more than 23 games in an NHL season. He was up against a slightly bigger and more experienced Thorburn in this fight from Saturday's Thrasher home opener. The two combined for one of the longer fights of the week, and there was some serious intensity from both sides.

Fight of the Week: Long, Competitive Southeast Division Scrap originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Milan Lucic's Contract Extension: Fair Price or Overpayment?

Adam Gretz — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, NHL Economics

A fan favorite in Boston, and one of the most intimidating players in the NHL, Milan Lucic agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Bruins on Tuesday evening, a deal that will reportedly pay him $12.25 million over the next three seasons for a cap hit of just over $4 million per season.

There's no question that Lucic is an important piece for the Bruins, and he's a very unique player: a power forward, a devastating hitter, a willing fighter, and, at the age of 21, a player that still has room to get better.

Still, four million seems a bit steep at this point, doesn't it? Are the Bruins overpaying Lucic for the short-term?

Just for comparisons sake, and keeping it in Boston, the Bruins re-signed restricted free agent David Krejci to a three-year deal this past offseason, paying him $3.75 million over the next three seasons (or less than what they'll be paying Lucic). At this point in their young careers, Krejci has been the more productive player offensively.

By The Numbers: Krejci vs. Lucic
Player	Games	Points	Points Per Game
David Krejci	144	100	.069
Milan Lucic	149	69	.046

Lucic, of course, is a different player and brings far more to the table than just goals and assists. He's a dominating physical presence (a guy that sends people through glass) and a young player that's drawn comparisons to former Bruins great -- and Hall of Famer -- Cam Neely. That's certainly high praise.

The folks at Hub Hockey feel those factors make Lucic worth his weight in gold.

Since coming to the B's he has been one of the biggest, if not largest, pieces of the puzzle in bringing the team back into the spotlight in a town that demands nothing but success these days. And that alone is worth its weight in gold. But the kid backs it up too and so far has shown no signs of slowing down. The hype on him has been high since day one and it hasn't seemed to phase him at all. Just the fact that a legend like Cam Neely can see himself in Lucic would crumble any other player of that age. But Lucic has pushed forward making a name for himself while carving his own path towards becoming THE elite power forward in the league. So if you ask me if Lucic is worth it? I would say yes. There will always be goal scorers and playmakers out there but finding a diamond in the rough such as Looch is huge. There are not many players that can change the momentum of a game in as many different ways as Lucic can.

Fair points. I guess the question I have is this: is it overpayment in the salary cap era to give $4 million to a player like Lucic when your team is already banging its cranium against the ceiling of the salary cap?

What do you think, hockey fans? Are the Bruins getting Lucic at a fair price, or are they overpaying? And if so, is it OK to pay a guy like Lucic a little more than his "market value" to make sure he's playing for you, as opposed to playing against you?

Milan Lucic's Contract Extension: Fair Price or Overpayment? originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alexander Ovechkin Stars, Caps Prove They're a Team

Christopher Botta — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:50:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Capitals, NHL Press Box

BOSTON -- On the first day in October, more than eight months before the Stanley Cup is rolled out to center ice, the Washington Capitals demonstrated in NHL Game No. 1 in Boston on Thursday night why they may be the Eastern standard.

These Capitals are not just Alexander Ovechkin, but a team constructed with precision from top to bottom.

The Washington superstar put on another magic show in the Capitals' 4-1 win in Boston -- earning another First Star, ho hum -- but it was far from a one-man production. His two goals came on splendid tape-to-tape passes, first from linemate Alexander Semin, later by defenseman Tom Poti. On both goals, Ovechkin outworked and out-muscled his coverage -- tonight was the Silence of Milan Lucic -- but he knows he's not getting world-class assistance if he's on just any team.

"I get the goals and a lot of the attention sometimes," said Ovechkin in a rare understatement, "but a game like tonight shows a lot about all the talent we have. I'm very lucky. You saw it tonight. Those guys are just sick players. These guys know how to get me the puck."

And they don't just get it to Ovechkin. His brilliant linemate, the still-rising 21-year-old Swedish center Nicklas Backstrom, had assists on the first three goals of the game. On the rare night when Ovechkin doesn't have it, Washington is deep enough for a different unsung hero to emerge. Thursday they had the best of both worlds; Ovechkin's pair of goals were equaled by second line left wing Brooks Laich.

The 26-year-old Laich, a former sixth-round pick dumped by Ottawa and plucked by Caps GM George McPhee in a string of unheralded but franchise-building moves, is a garbage man. Over the last two years he had 44 goals and could reach 30 in 2009-10. His goals Thursday were vintage Laich: "I got two goals from a combined two feet out of the net," he said with a laugh -- although his facts were accurate. Washington head coach Bruce Boudreau was happy for the grand-stage illustration that his team is not all about Ovechkin. "We've got guys on all four lines that know their roles," Boudreau said. "We've got guys that know how to play the game."

On the other end was Capitals goaltender Jose Theodore, showing more heart than anyone on the ice. The 32-year-old goalie is mourning the loss of his two-month old son, who died in August. Theodore was sharp from beginning to end, making 19 saves on 20 shots and controlling his rebounds. It was a remarkable debut under circumstances few could ever understand.

"I'm very lucky. You saw it tonight. Those guys are just sick players. These guys know how to get me the puck." -- Alexander OvechkinDuring training camp, Theodore spoke of the distraction of "being around the guys" and teammates like defenseman Brian Pothier talked about the Capitals as "an extended family" who "carry each other's burdens." After the victory Thursday, there was an admirably noticeable attempt to move on publicly, to keep the Theodore tragedy within the family. Boudreau said he was "really happy for him," but only in the context that his starter is sometimes a "much-maligned goalie," not a parent in pain.

Theodore also did not want to go there. "Tonight was about putting everything together with the guys in front of me," he said, "and respecting the game plan." Then he politely walked away, headed for a warm handshake from team owner Ted Leonsis and a quiet, proud celebration with his teammates.

This is what a true family does. This is how a successful franchise operates. This is how a perfectly-rebuilt hockey team becomes a contender.

Alexander Ovechkin Stars, Caps Prove They're a Team originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Capitals vs. Bruins Live Blog

Christopher Botta — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Capitals

FanHouse's Christopher Botta is in Boston for Thursday night's season-opening contest between the Capitals and Bruins, and he's live-blogging the game direct from the press box. Not only that, he'll be joined in the second period by an NHL scout, who will be providing exclusive insights and scouting reports during the game to FanHouse readers. If you've got DirecTV, it might be your only shot to follow the game live.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href=&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;task=viewaltcast&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;altcast_code=5e434b98ed&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Capitals vs. Bruins Live Blog&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Capitals vs. Bruins Live Blog originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's Alex Ovechkin vs. Zdeno Chara

Christopher Botta — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Capitals, FanHouse Exclusive

BOSTON -- The Washington Capitals do not have all the answers for getting around Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Zdeno Chara, so maybe they're trying to kill the 6-9 defenseman with compliments.

"Best defenseman in the league," said head coach Bruce Boudreau after Thursday morning's skate at TD Garden.

"Big, strong, longest stick in the NHL -- one of the best d-men in the game," said tonight's nemesis, Hart Trophy winner Alexander Ovechkin.

"Probably the toughest player to go against in the league," said Ovechkin disher Nicklas Backstrom.

The 2009-10 NHL season kicks off Thursday night in Boston with a crash and a bang. Two teams that fell short of Stanley Cup Finals expectations last season. Two teams with great expectations for this one. And, of course, one of the best matchups in the league: Chara vs. Ovechkin -- the most punishing defenseman against the most dazzling forward.

Bob Beers, FanHouse's Guest Analyst
"The Bruins have done a decent job with Ovechkin over the last year," said the ex-Bruins defenseman and current radio color commentator. "They approach him with a 'layered' system -- if he gets by one guy, another is waiting for him. You have to eliminate Ovechkin's speed coming through the neutral zone. You also have to look out for Semin, who led the Caps in scoring last year against the Bruins. He can be just as deadly, just more quietly. The other key tonight is for the Bruins to control their emotions. They are very jacked up for this game. Intensity is important, but it has to be under control. You don't want to be in the penalty box against Washington."

Bob Beers, FanHouse's Guest Analyst

"The Bruins have done a decent job with Ovechkin over the last year," said the ex-Bruins defenseman and current radio color commentator. "They approach him with a 'layered' system -- if he gets by one guy, another is waiting for him. You have to eliminate Ovechkin's speed coming through the neutral zone. You also have to look out for Semin, who led the Caps in scoring last year against the Bruins. He can be just as deadly, just more quietly. The other key tonight is for the Bruins to control their emotions. They are very jacked up for this game. Intensity is important, but it has to be under control. You don't want to be in the penalty box against Washington."

Of course, this being hockey, the stars of this show won't go for any one-on-one talk, as if this was Kobe vs. LeBron.

"We have to play Alex as a team," Chara told FanHouse in a one-on-one conversation this morning. "If we try to attack it as me against him, we're in for a long night. For us to have any chance of shutting him down, we have to approach it as a unit of five. He's an amazing hockey player. If you were to build a player with all the tools you could possibly have, you'd have Ovechkin.

"Every game against him is a challenge. He's strong and he likes to mix it up. Then there are times when he lets his linemates do a lot of the work and he kind of sneaks into the play. And don't forget about his release -- as good as anyone's. I'd say it's fun to play against Ovechkin, but it's too much of a competition."

The Bruins have snatched points in 14 consecutive home games against the Capitals. They are 10-0-2-2 in that stretch with their last regulation home loss coming B.O. -- Before Ovechkin -- on Dec. 2, 2000. Boston's effectiveness in keeping the Caps' superstar in check at the Garden is one of the biggest factors.

"It's not the rink, it's the players," said Ovechkin. Added Boudreau: "The Bruins are real good and they're hungry."

On Chara, the coach said, "He's seven feet on skates and has a wingspan of about 30 feet. He has become the total package. Now scouts are looking at 6-7, 6-8 guys in every draft and thinking this kid could be the next Zdeno Chara."

Ovechkin was asked if he's ever spent much time off the ice with the good-natured Chara, his fellow NHL award winner. "I've hung out with Z a little bit and he's a great guy," said the Washington right wing. "He's good for our league."

How about on the ice?

"Tough, very tough," said Ovechkin. "No one can get around him by ourselves. We're going to need everyone ready to battle tonight. It's like war."

The FanHouse Forecast
Chara -- with some help from Lucic and the rest -- keeps Ovechkin reasonably under control. Same with the Bruins and their emotions for their home opener. Tim Thomas is the better goaltender and the Bruins win, 4-3

Capitals Notes: Asked "Goaltender for tonight?" Bruce Boudreau said, "Yes." After the laughter, the coach told reporters he'd inform them at 5:00 p.m. ET whether Varlamov or Theodore was his starter. ... While Schultz and Sloan are likely tonight's blueline scratches, Boudreau refused to confirm. He also said Sloan was the Capitals' best defenseman in training camp.

Even the best teams have their troubles. For Washington, it's Michael Nylander. The 37-year-old center has a $4.75 million salary cap hit, a no-move clause in his contract and no role on the team. His relationship with Boudreau is said to be beyond repair. The rumor mill has Nylander soon returning to Russia to play in the KHL while the Capitals pay his salary. Nylander skated today in the Garden after the formal team workout.

The Capitals lost 2004 second round pick Chris Bourque yesterday on waivers. Washington took the gamble of placing the solid prospect on the waiver wire because they were all of $15,000 over the salary cap. Not a typo: $15,000. ... Besides Ovechkin, Poti and Knuble have been named alternate captains. ... Boudreau, on what he expects from the addition of the veteran free agent Knuble: "30 goals, I hope."

Capitals' Projected Lineup
Forwards
Alexander Ovechkin - Nicklas Backstrom - Alexander Semin
Brooks Laich - Brendan Morrison - Mike Knuble
Quintin Laing - David Steckel - Chris Clark
Boyd Kane - Boyd Gordon - Matt Bradley
Defensemen
Shaone Morrison - Mike Green
Tom Poti - Milan Jurcina
John Erskine - Brian Pothier
(Jeff Schultz, Tyler Sloan)
Goalies
Semyon Varlamov
Jose Theodore

Bruins Notes: The availability of rising star center David Krejci in the lineup for the season opener was a happy surprise for the Bruins. The 23-year-old, who had 73 points last season, had hip surgery in the offseason and was not expected back until at least November. Bruins head coach Claude Julien said his remarkable return is a testimony to Krejci's commitment and the work of the Boston medical and training staff. "For me, I call it a bonus," said Julien.

All-Star Tim Thomas gets the start tonight in goal for the Bruins. ... Boychuk appears to be locked in as Boston's seventh defenseman.

Julien, on the renewed New England focus on the Bruins, said "Hopefully, we are back on the map. The thing is now to stay on the map. There is a lot of good competition here in Boston. Our other sports teams do well and we want to be part of that group." As he observed the large press contingent at today's skate, Julien said, "Looking at the media attention we are getting now, hopefully we are on the right track."

Bruins' Projected Lineup
Forwards
Milan Lucic - Marc Savard - Marco Sturm
Blake Wheeler - David Krejci - Michael Ryder
Mark Recchi - Patrice Bergeron - Chuck Kobasew
Shawn Thornton - Steve Begin - Byron Bitz
Defensemen
Zdeno Chara - Derek Morris
Andrew Ference - Dennis Wideman
Mark Stuart - Matt Hunwick
Goalies
Tim Thomas
(Tuukka Rask)

It's Alex Ovechkin vs. Zdeno Chara originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Boston GM Peter Chiarelli Says Phil Kessel Wanted Out

Bruce Ciskie — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 12:10:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Maple Leafs, Eastern

Now that Phil Kessel is officially a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Boston Bruins can move forward. They knew that Kessel would be tough to bring back, especially given their salary cap issues. What general manager Peter Chiarelli wasn't necessarily prepared to hear was that Kessel didn't want to return under any circumstances.

Enter Toronto general manager Brian Burke, who gave up two first-round picks, along with a second-rounder, for the right to pay Kessel some $27 million for the next five years.

Chiarelli made it abundantly clear that Kessel didn't want to be there, and he also said it was his choice to allow Kessel to move on. Chiarelli went so far as to say the club could have stashed Kessel on long-term injury for the entire season if they wanted to.

From the Bruins' perspective, the deal only happened because Kessel wanted out. Throughout his opening remarks and for much of his near 20-minute press conference, Chiarelli refused to refer to Kessel by name, instead saying "the player" or "this player" to describe the fourth-year player, who scored a career-high 36 goals last season.

"At the end of the day," Chiarelli said, "we want players who want to be here. This player is a good player. He can skate and shoot the puck. But we want players who want to be here, we want to build around them."

Chiarelli only got three draft picks in return for a high-level young player (Kessel is on the verge of turning 22). He tried to spin this into a good thing, however.

"These picks are significant," Chiarelli said, "especially in light of the strength of the amateur draft coming up."

While Chiarelli was obviously displeased at the events that led him to this moment, Burke was practically giddy. He praised Chiarelli for driving a hard bargain for Kessel.

"It's a very high price," Burke said Friday night. "But it's one that we feel makes sense for us."

Burke noted that his organization has signed some key free agents, such as Tyler Bozak, Christian Hanson, and goalie Jonas Gustavsson, who will all play a role moving forward. He felt that allowed him the flexibility to give up draft picks for Kessel.

"By stocking the cupboard, we can take some of the cans off the shelf for the future," Burke said.

Kessel's shoulder injury won't allow him to play until November.

"He brings tremendous footspeed, goal scoring ability, and should improve our power play," Burke said. Kessel instantly becomes the best right wing on the Leafs' roster once he's healthy.

Burke also noted that Kessel is pleased with the events, saying the former Minnesota Gopher is "walking on air." Chiarelli mentioned his talk with Kessel on Friday, after the deal was done, and said Kessel was "disappointed" that things didn't work out in Boston.

While Boston would have needed to clear significant cap space for Kessel's contract, Toronto will not. They will need to make a minor move to clear salary before Kessel can be activated in November, or whenever he's healthy.

The Bruins will have to find a way to replace a 36-goal scorer, but Chiarelli is confident in his team's ability to improve.

"I think we have some player who will fill in those goals," Chiarelli said.

Burke has made his big move. Now, it's time to hope all his tinkering works well on the ice.

Boston GM Peter Chiarelli Says Phil Kessel Wanted Out originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 19 Sep 2009 12:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Summer's Over, Burke Stops Leafs' Fall

Christopher Botta — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:59:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Maple Leafs

Bravo, Brian Burke. The Toronto general manager talked his usual good game and delivered, acquiring Phil Kessel from Boston for two first round picks and one second-rounder.

Without the benefit of a cornerstone prospect like John Tavares or Steven Stamkos up front, Burke still found a way to shake up the Maple Leafs and make them better. Since he accomplished the trick without giving up any of the half-dozen very good NHL players on his roster, Burke now runs a team that can compete in the East -- this season. He also held on to his top forward prospects, 2009 first pick Nazem Kadri, Czech Republic left wing Jiri Tlusty and college free agent signee Tyler Bozak, so he did not completely mortgage the future.

Bruins GM: Kessel Wanted Out, No Matter What

No, Toronto is not ready to beat Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington and perhaps a few others in a seven-game series, but today the Maple Leafs are a competitive hockey team and a fun watch.

Last season, Burke had a perceptive line about building hockey franchises. The team president said teams must be either "ascending or descending rapidly." His point was, the Leafs needed to either contend now or perform badly enough to put them in the hunt for a Tavares or Victor Hedman. Being in the middle -- like Florida (on the low side) and Nashville (maybe win a round but never have legit players for the Stanley Cup) -- is death.

Even with Kessel, of course, the Maple Leafs have plenty of work to do. They have become Anaheim-tough, re-tooled their defense around stud youngster Luke Schenn, added a possible gem in goaltender Jonas Gustavsson and now have something resembling a first line. In Ron Wilson, they also have a top-5 head coach. They still need more than Kessel.

Nevertheless, this is the kind of deal everyone outside of Toronto will find plenty to cry about:

"They gave up way too much." (No, they gave up just enough to get a trade done).

"They gave a very restricted free agent too much money." (No, $5.4 million a year for five years may have been too much for Boston to give him. Toronto paid the price for improving dramatically overnight ... well, in November, when Kessel's shoulder heals).

"Phil Kessel is a little turd." (If half the complaints are true, count on fellow Americans Burke and Ron Wilson scaring him straight).

Astoundingly, few are pointing fingers at the mismanagement of the Boston Bruins. GM Peter Chiarelli left no room in his salary cap to sign Kessel, a potential star he wanted to develop as a Bruin. Something is very wrong when an NHL franchise cannot keep its top young player as a restricted free agent. Maybe Kessel and his rep, Wade Arnott, gave Chiarelli no other choice. Then again, Chiarelli was under no pressure to give the unaccomplished Derek Morris -- a supposed puck-moving defenseman with 31 goals combined over the last five seasons -- $3.3 million for this year.

Of course, the Bruins could not absorb much salary in a Kessel deal. But to not bring back a premier prospect only a year or two away from the NHL is unconscionable. To make this trade within your own division is worse, no matter the 35-point separation between Boston and Toronto last season.

Look at it this way: the Bruins traded a 36-goal scorer who turns 22 on opening weekend for a pair of 17-year olds and a 16-year old. The first-rounders Boston receive in 2010 and 2011 will likely fall in the draft between 10th and 20th overall. Even if one of them becomes the equal of Kessel, it won't be for at least four years from now.

Big step back for the Bruins. Huge, ballsy step forward for the Maple Leafs. Makes you wonder why other teams didn't step up.

Summer's Over, Burke Stops Leafs' Fall originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:59:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Phil Kessel Completes Brian Burke's Offseason Overhaul in Toronto

Adam Gretz — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Maple Leafs

After months of rumors and speculation the Boston Bruins finally made a move regarding 21-year-old restricted free agent Phil Kessel, trading the former No. 5 overall pick to the Toronto Maple Leafs for a pile of draft picks, including first and second-round selections in 2010 as well as a first-round pick in 2011.

Darren Dreger of TSN reports that Kessel and the Leafs have already agreed to a five-year contract extension worth $27 million.

The Maple Leafs had reportedly attempted to acquire Kessel during the NHL draft for a package that would have included defenseman Tomas Kaberle, only to have the deal never materialize. The speedy 5-foot-11 forward is coming off a career year for the Bruins, tallying 36 goals (to go with 24 assists) in 70 games for a Boston team that claimed the top spot in the Eastern Conference during the regular season. He had six goals and five assists in Boston's 11 playoff games. To put Kessel's goal total in perspective for Toronto, Jason Blake led the team with 25 goals a season ago.

Kessel is set to be out of the lineup until November due to offseason rotator cuff surgery.

The Kessel deal should be the final piece of a busy offseason for general manager Brian Burke, who has taken somewhat drastic steps to reshape the Maple Leafs lineup. He's already brought in defensemen Mike Komisarek and Francois Beauchemin, snagged Swedish goaltender Jonas "The Monster" Gustavsson, signed enforcer Colton Orr, and dealt rearguard Pavel Kubina to the Atlanta Thrashers.

Reactions are already flying in, including this from Maple Leafs blog Pension Plan Puppets on any criticism the Leafs may face for the price they paid to land their man:

The other criticism will be that the Leafs are rebuilding and therefore cannot trade a single draft pick. Already Steve Simmons has invoked the name of Owen Nolan. The massive difference would be that Phil Kessel is 21 years old. Yes, he is coming off of a pretty serious surgery but he has already returned from testicular cancer. This kid is a fighter. Burke's prowess in signing college free agents will hopefully take some of the sting out of losing the picks but at the end of the day the Leafs acquired a 21 year old 36 goal scorer that, if he was worth acquiring later on in his career, would likely not have hit the open market again.

For Boston perspective on the deal, Stanley Cup of Chowder weighs in:

This means that those reports that were adamantly denied by the Kessel camp claiming he was seeking a contract worth upwards of $5 million per year were dead on. Kessel is a talented offensive player, but in the salary cap era, you just can't keep everyone. The Bruins obviously felt that there were other players that meant more to the future success of this hockey team. This is a trade that we won't be able to fully evaluate for years. Those three picks could turn into three Phil Kessels...or three Johnathan Aitkens.

In 222 career games, Kessel has scored 66 goals and tallied 126 total points. His numbers have increased across the board in each of his first three seasons in the NHL.

Phil Kessel Completes Brian Burke's Offseason Overhaul in Toronto originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Six Landing Spots for Phil Kessel

Christopher Botta — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Islanders, Maple Leafs, Oilers, Predators, Rangers, Sharks

Dany Heatley has now been traded, but Phil Kessel is on the market. Here's a look at where the latter could end up by the start of the regular season.

Edmonton Oilers - The Oilers surprise us sometimes. The Western Canadian rebels have signed restricted free agents to offer sheets and leaped into the Heatley sweepstakes. Since free agents don't line up to sign there -- a darn shame, if you ask me -- the Oilers must acquire any big guns like Kessel through trades.

GM Steve Tambellini has cap space and some good, young, inexpensive players he can move. Boston GM Peter Chiarelli can also say to the young American, "Okay, Phil. You wanted out? Best wishes in Alberta." When Kessel scores in bunches on the fast track in Edmonton, at least it will be in a galaxy far from Beantown.

Nashville Predators - The Predators have the assets and interest, so they cannot be left off this list. Making a move for Kessel would be a bold stroke for the Predators, who could use one to break through as a serious contender in the West.

Toronto Maple Leafs - Bossman Brian Burke is in a jam. He's talked big -- man, I love this guy -- but hasn't delivered. He was public in his passion for John Tavares (he couldn't move up in the draft). He blustered about how every player on his team could be traded (actually, not really). Burke has been very successful wooing free agents from the NHL, college and Europe with Maple Leafs loonies.

Still, he's John Wayne without making the big score. The Leafs are without question a leading contender for Kessel. The biggest reason why it may not happen? Burke has been so loud about it, Chiarelli may be telling himself he'll trade Kessel anywhere except Toronto. Still, if it's his best offer, the Boston GM can't refuse.

New York Islanders - Garth Snow's rebuilding club may not have the key NHL player to satisfy Boston, a contender in the present. Kyle Okposo -- with his large shoulders and relentless approach, he looks and plays like a Bruin -- is not available. What the Islanders do have is about $137 million in cap space and enough collegiate and junior prospects and future draft selections to make two Kessel trades if they wanted to.

Acquiring Kessel wouldn't exactly blow the Islanders' rebuilding program. He turns 22 the day before the team's season opener. The Islanders drafted his brother Blake, a defenseman at the University of New Hampshire, in the sixth round of the 2007 draft. So they've got that going for them, which is nice.

New York Rangers - GM Glen Sather does not have much cap space. He also does not have a true No. 1 center, making a team with Marian Gaborik and potentially Phil Kessel on it ripe for a lot of bagel analogies. Still, since the beginning of time, the Rangers have always been in the mix for star players. As Sather proved with his Houdini-esque, somebody-had-pictures unloading of cap anchor Scott Gomez on Montreal (for assets!), you can't count him out of the Kessel Watch.

Boston Bruins - History illustrates that in nine out of 10 perceived stalemates like this, the team and its young star eventually realize they need each other. Here is Chiarelli last week: "I want Phil to be on our team. If it means moving players, I'll do it. If it means matching offer sheets, I'll do it."

This may take a while -- and could get nastier -- but don't be surprised if Kessel and the Bruins renew their vows.

Six Landing Spots for Phil Kessel originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Phil Kessel No Longer Negotiating With Boston Bruins

Bruce Ciskie — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Eastern, NHL Rumors

While fans eagerly await the start of the 2009-2010 NHL season, there is one high-profile player who still doesn't know what team he will spend it with.

Phil Kessel had a breakout season in 2008-2009, scoring 36 goals and picking up an impressive plus-23 rating. He was solid on the power play and dangerous in the clutch, finishing second on his team with six game-winning goals. That team, the Boston Bruins, doesn't have enough cap room to sign Kessel, and it sounds like the fourth-year pro is tired of waiting around.

The Boston Globe is reporting that Kessel has cut off negotiations with the Bruins, preferring instead to sign an offer sheet with a different team. Of course, the Bruins would have the right to match any offer sheet the restricted free agent signs, but that doesn't necessarily mean he won't get an offer.

Kessel's desire for a contract believed to be in the range of $4 million per season doesn't jive with the Bruins and their $1.7 million in cap space. This isn't the NFL, where teams can pass off cap charges to later seasons. The average annual salary of an NHL contract is the player's cap number.

With rumors flying that the Toronto Maple Leafs could try to sign an offer sheet with Kessel, this latest development only intensifies the chatter. Will Brian Burke set aside his previous philosophy on offer sheets, in an effort to acquire a badly-needed top-six forward for his team? Not only that, but he could damage a division rival at the same time.

After all, it's not like Burke would have to reset the market to make this deal happen. Kessel wanting $4 million isn't unrealistic or some sort of extraordinary demand. He's a good player, doesn't turn 22 until early October, and his huge 2008-2009 season suggests more is to come.

What happened in Anaheim stays in Anaheim. Burke is staring at a depth chart that includes Lee Stempniak, Nikolai Kulemin, and Alexei Ponikarovsky among his top wingers. He might be trying to do the right thing by some sort of invisible general managers' code, but his loyalty is to the Maple Leafs, not Peter Chiarelli.

Report: Phil Kessel No Longer Negotiating With Boston Bruins originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'The Monster' Impressive In Debut; Kessel to Leafs Rumors

Adam Gretz — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Maple Leafs, NHL Fans, NHL Fights, NHL Rumors

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our daily look at the previous night's action. During the offseason, it's our occasional link dump that looks at some of the storylines and moves taking place around the league. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

One of the most intriguing moves made by the Toronto Maple Leafs this offseason was the addition of free agent goaltender Jonas Gustavsson. On Sunday, the Swedish prospect, nicknamed "The Monster," made his first appearance for the Maple Leafs in the 2009 rookie tournament and stopped 35-of-36 shots in a 3-1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. According to Steve Buffery of the Toronto Sun, Gustavsson "looked steady, if not spectacular," and flashed a quick glove hand on an Eric Tangradi shot. Sportsnet referred to him as being "nearly unbeatable" as the Penguins peppered him with shots during the second and third periods.

... Also noteworthy from the Penguins-Maple Leafs rookie game? The first fights of the season including a bout between Richard Greenop and Ryan Schnell, and a fight involving Alex Berry and Zack Sill. Puck Daddy's Greg Wyshynski describes the two bouts as only he can: "Seeing a prospect hockey fight on Labor Day is like hearing a roadie play the first few notes of a classic song during a sound check: Technically unrefined, but just enough to make you crave the real thing." [Puck Daddy]

... Sticking with Toronto for a moment, a seemingly innocent trade involving the Maple Leafs and Blackhawks on Saturday has led to speculation that Brian Burke could be plotting a move to acquire Phil Kessel from the Boston Bruins, something he reportedly tried to during the NHL draft back in June. On Saturday, the Leafs reacquired their own second-round pick in the 2010 draft from Chicago, which would give Burke the required draft picks to sign Kessel, a restricted free agent, away from Boston. From Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe:

If Burke were to hand Kessel something around $4.5 million a year or more via an offer sheet, then the Bruins would have to match the deal or take the compensation that would include first-, second-, and third-round picks. Until his deal yesterday, Burke didn't have the necessary draft picks to be in position to make Kessel an offer.

... Finally, for some non-Leafs related news, check out the new paint job for Nikolai Khabibulin's mask. [The Goalie Guild]

'The Monster' Impressive In Debut; Kessel to Leafs Rumors originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zach McKelvie Balances Army, NHL

Christopher Botta — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins

Zach McKelvie, 2nd Lieutenant of the United States Army, will report for duty one week from Friday at the training camp of the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League.

How far McKelvie will be able to follow his NHL dream is another matter.

The 6-2, 190-pound defenseman signed a one-year contract with the Bruins in July after playing four seasons at West Point. "I just like Boston's style," he said. "Hard-nosed, up-tempo ... the way I love to play. I'm grateful the Bruins gave me this opportunity."

The 24-year-old McKelvie also has been granted approval by his commander in the U.S. Army to play one year of professional hockey. In West Point parlance, manning the blueline of the Bruins' minor league affiliate in Providence will be his "second job."

McKelvie's case appears to be an exception to the rule that has prevented former Army football player Caleb Campbell from pursuing an NFL career. Drafted last year in the seventh round by the Detroit Lions, the strong safety was initially cleared to play by the Army. The decision came as the new "Alternative Services" guideline was established for cadets with the potential to play pro sports:

"(Cadets) will owe two years of active service in the Army, during which time they will be allowed to play their sport in the player-development systems of their respective organizations and be assigned to recruiting stations. If they remain in professional sports following those two years, they will be provided the option of buying out the remaining three years of their active-duty commitment in exchange for six years of reserve time."

However, the Army later suspended the rule -- saying it will revisit the matter at a later date -- and Campbell was held his commitment to the military until 2010. His shot at an NFL career diminished, Campbell is now satisfying his competitive spirit by attempting to land a spot on the U.S. Olympic bobsled team.

Despite several attempts for clarity on the difference in the McKelvie and Campbell cases, U.S. Army officials did not provide an official statement to FanHouse. Asked for his take, McKelvie -- who has met Campbell -- said, "I'm not totally sure, except I think our situations are viewed differently by the Army. I'm in West Point, Caleb is not. My commanding officer has given me clearance for this one year. For now, this is all I have for certain -- this one year. I hope over time the ruling is structured to benefit all of us with legitimate shots to make it in pro sports.

"Caleb and I understand this is not about individuals, but the greater good of the United States Armed Forces. Speaking for myself, my hockey career can be a chance to show America one of the many opportunities that come with service. The Army molded me into the player and the athlete I am now."

The uncertainty remains whether McKelvie will be able to play a second season in 2010-11. If he has to miss two years of high-level hockey, his pro career would be over. "I'll be honest with you," McKelvie said at his desk at West Point, where he is serving as an intern in the Athletic office. "I want to stay patient, I want to do what's best for the Army. I owe them so much and my loyalty is to them. But there are times I feel like I'm walking on eggshells."

******

Brian Riley is just the third Army hockey coach over the last 59 years. His predecessor at West Point was his older brother Rob. Before Rob, their father Jack was the Black Knights coach for 38 seasons. Brian understands the commitment cadets make to the Army, but believes top-tier athletes like McKelvie -- his captain, MVP and league all-star last season -- are among the best ambassadors for the armed forces.

"I want to stay patient, I want to do what's best for the Army. I owe them so much and my loyalty is to them. But there are times I feel like I'm walking on eggshells." "I could never find a better recruiter than Zack McKelvie," said Riley, entering his sixth season at Army. "When we have parents visit West Point with their sons, I have them sit down with Zach. Every time, the families talk about how impressive he was. I think about the reach Zach could have when he makes it in pro hockey. Look at the press coverage he could get in training camp and every city he goes to. I'm telling you, our hockey program and the Army could not have a better representative."

As head coach at Air Force, Frank Serratore saw too much of McKelvie on the opposition blue line over the four years. "He's a fierce competitor," said Serratore, "and an outstanding skater. Zach's a tough defenseman to forecheck, and his quick feet enable him to make strong plays at both ends of the ice. He has this strong presence as a player and a leader -- so strong I could see it from the other bench."

The Air Force coach has a vested interest in whether McKelvie sees his on-ice development to its conclusion without interruption. "I believe the Armed Forces would be well-served to give major league prospects the flexibility to pursue their careers," said Serratore. "I want to be clear here: no one wants a mass exodus of servicemen leaving to try out for sports teams. Those with clear-cut top potential can be identified and be given the chance. In the end, I don't think there's any question we would see a positive effect on enrollment in the service academies."

Asked how his time at West Point changed him, McKelvie said, "Before I came here, I was not the most confident kid. My years here transformed me and shaped my value systems. When I spoke with scouts from some of the NHL teams, they said my character was one of the reasons they liked me. A big piece of that comes from the Army."

Told his response sounded like an effective pitch for the Army, McKelvie let out a small laugh and wondered about the impact of getting on a bigger stage. "The military spends millions of dollars sponsoring NASCAR, the NHL and other major sports," he said. "I would be proud to represent the Army as a pro athlete and share my story with anyone who will listen. If my orders change, I will never disobey the Army or dishonor my commitment. But maybe I can be a real-life advertisement for the education I received at West Point."

******

McKelvie's story only has an effect, of course, if he progresses as a strong NHL prospect. While the defenseman is without question an underdog -- think Rudy meets An Officer and a Gentleman -- it's impossible to find anyone betting against him.

FanHouse contacted a scout for one of the NHL teams that bid with Boston for McKelvie's services. His scouting report:

"One of the best skaters in college hockey. He won the NCAA Fastest Skater competition at the 2009 Frozen Four skills challenge. He is already fairly solid, but now that he'll be out of West Point I can see him playing at 205-210 pounds. He excels one-on-one down low and has a good, active stick. To succeed at the pro level, he'll have to work on his vision and his pace."

The high intensity style he loves about the Bruins will also be his biggest challenge. McKelvie understands there will be an adjustment period from the NCAA's Atlantic Hockey Association to the American Hockey League -- considered by many in hockey to be the second-best league in the world. "I'll be putting in a lot of extra work," said McKelvie, still recovering from a shoulder injury that may hamper his ability to participate in every drill at the start of Bruins camp.

Still, everyone who has seen him play believes McKelvie's legs, mind and heart could carry him to the NHL. "His demeanor, his attitude, his understanding of what it takes to make a particular play ... those traits will go a long way for him," said John LaFontaine, his coach with the junior level Bozeman (Montana) Icedogs for two years between high school and the Army. "Back then, I couldn't tell you he would get an NHL contract, but Zach works so hard, wants it so bad and just keeps getting better every year.

"When our team needed a lift, he'd fight the other team's big guy," recalled LaFontaine, the brother of Hall of Fame center Pat LaFontaine and today the athletic director at Shattuck St. Mary's School in Minnesota. "When we needed a boost, he'd make a big hit. He's the ultimate team guy who has the toughness and the skill to back up everything he says in the locker room."

Starting next week, McKelvie gets his chance of a lifetime. "I may be a bit of a late-bloomer, but the NHL dream has been there since I was a little kid," he said. He played on makeshift outdoor rinks in New Brighton, Minnesota -- "for the Stanley Cup, of course" -- with his brothers: twin Chris, entering his senior year at Bemidji State ("NHL speed," says LaFontaine) and older brother Ryan, who played at Minnesota State, Mankato, and now is an associate coach in the North American Hockey League. Their grandfather Joseph was raised in hockey-obsessed Ontario and served for the Canadian Army in World War II.

"Playing hockey," said Zach McKelvie, "is what my brothers and I were born to do. I'm grateful for the year I have in the Bruins organization and we'll see what happens after that. For now, I'm approaching it as a chance to chase a dream and honor my family and my country."

Zach McKelvie Balances Army, NHL originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Great Commercials in NHL History: Boston Bruins Edition

Adam Gretz — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, NHL Fans, NHL Videos

Great commercials in NHL history: A look back at the absurdity and hilarity of NHL advertising campaigns.

The only real hockey news of the week has been free agent Todd Bertuzzi returning to Detroit, and the NHL announcing its slate of national television broadcasts. Obviously, times are mind-numbingly slow for hockey fans. That said, there's not a better time to jump in the old time machine for another installment of great commercials in NHL history, this time featuring former members of the Boston Bruins.

The participants: Adam Oates picking up "loose rebounds," Cam Neely gardening, and, of course, Bobby Orr.

Adam Oates Picks Up The "Loose Rebounds"

Adam Oates spent parts of six years with the Bruins between 1991 and 1997, recording the best season of his 19-year career during the 1992-93 campaign, finishing third in the NHL scoring race with 142 points -- trailing only Mario Lemieux and Pat LaFontaine -- and leading the league with 97 assists.

Not only was he a master at distributing the puck to teammates, he went looking for the "loose rebounds."

Loose rebounds? Didn't Sean Avery have a different ... ah, forget it.

Would You Like To Kick Cam Neely's Dog While You're Here?

After his Hall of Fame career was cut far too short, Cam Neely appeared in a commercial for ESPN's latest and greatest network -- ESPNews -- that would provide round-the-clock sports scores and highlights.

Bobby Orr: Priceless

Just because something involving the Bruins can't be complete without Bobby Orr.

I selected this Mastercard commercial because I liked it better than him selling a Chevy Astro.

Great Commercials in NHL History: Boston Bruins Edition originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Satan Still Lurking; NCAA Doubleheader at Fenway

Adam Gretz — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Flyers, Islanders, NHL Free Agency, College Hockey

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our daily look at the previous night's action. During the offseason, it's our link dump that looks at some of the storylines and moves taking place around the league three times per week. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

Satan Interested In Return To Islanders

There's still a few intriguing options on the free agent market -- Alex Tanguay probably being the best -- including former Oilers, Sabres, Islanders and Penguins winger Miroslav Satan. After splitting the 2008-09 season between the NHL and AHL, the 34-year-old is still interested in a possible return to Long Island, and according Newsday's Katie Strang, he skated at the team's practice facility on Wednesday.

From Strang:

Satan, who played three seasons with the Islanders from 2005-2008, confirmed that his agent, Allan Walsh, has spoken with the Islanders about rejoining the team, but they have yet to resume discussions this week. Walsh first announced the dialogue between the two camps on his Twitter page on July 25, then gave an update three days later, saying, "We are still deep in talks with NYI on Miro." "I know they spoke about it a few times last week," Satan said. "This week I don't think they have talked. Now, it's quiet again."

In three years with the Islanders between 2005 and 2008 he tallied 78 goals to go with 88 assists.

NCAA Doubleheader At Fenway Park

One week after the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers take part in the 2010 Winter Classic, the ice rink at Fenway Park will be used for an NCAA doubleheader. The first game will be a women's matchup between New Hampshire and Northeastern, while the second game will feature Boston University taking on Boston College. [Boston Herald, H/T Puck Daddy]

Loose Pucks

... Sharks Page has an interview with Mike Potenza, the team's strength and conditioning coordinator. [Sharks Page]

... Speaking of the Sharks, the team agreed to terms with goaltenders Thomas Greiss and Henrik Karlsson on Wednesday. [TSN]

... Blueshirt Banter takes a look at the Rangers' big free agent signing, forward Marian Gaborik. [Blueshirt Banter]

... Entering his third year with the team, Flyers forward Daniel Briere is ready to show fans he's worth the eight-year, $52 million contract he signed prior to the 2007-08 season. [Philly.com]

... It looks like virtual advertisements will be coming to your televisions during the 2009-10 season. [USA Today]

Satan Still Lurking; NCAA Doubleheader at Fenway originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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