Jason Arnott told Lou Lamoriello yesterday it would be a huge gamble to remain with the Devils and ride out this magical run and thus was traded to the Washington Capitals for Center Dave Steckel and a 2012 2nd round pick. Arnott has 13 goals and 11 assists in 62 games with New Jersey and is a -9. In 57 games this year Steckel has 5 goals and 6 assists an id a -3. Arnott will have his chance to play in the playoffs for a cup contender as he wished.
It was relatively slow this year on trade deadline day, maybe it being a Monday had something to do with it, but with the close playoff races, teams decided to play it safe. There was only 16 trades and 30 players moving, 15 down from 31 last year and 55 players moving. So, here are my winners and losers:
Winners
Los Angeles Kings
Vancouver Canucks
Florida Panthers
Phoenix Coyotes
Edmonton Oilers
New Jersey Devils
Washington Capitals
Calgary Flames
Buffalo Sabres
Tampa Bay Lightning
Losers:
Montreal Canadiens
Atlanta Thrashers
Colorado Avalanche
St. Louis Blues
Nashville Predators
NY Rangers
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011 Trade Tracker
With 15 hours left I have decided to make a list of all the movements and will provide the top 5 winners after.
So Far: (Page will be Edited)
St. Louis: 2nd Round Pick 2011
Buffalo: Brad Boyes
Florida: Niclas Bergfors, Patrick Rismiller
Atlanta: Radek Dvorak, 5th round pick 2011
Florida: Jake Hauswirth, 3rd Round Pick 2011
Washington: Dennis Wideman
Phoenix: Rostislav Klesla, Dane Byers
Columbus: Scottie Upshall, Sami Lepisto
Colorado: Shawn Belle
Edmonton: Kevin Montgomery
Florida: Sergei Samsonov
Carolina: Bryan Allen
Chicago: Chris Campoli
Ottawa: Ryan Potulny, 2nd Round Pick
Anaheim: Brad Winchester
St. Louis: 3rd round pick 2012
Los Angeles Kings: Dustin Penner
Edmonton: Colten Teubert, 1st round pick 2011, conditional draft pick.
NY Rangers: John Mitchell
Toronto: 7th round pick 2011
New Jersey: Dave Steckel, 2nd round pick
Washington: Jason Arnott
Vancouver: Maxim Lapierre, MacGregor Sharp
Anaheim: Joel Perreault, 3rd Round Pick
Philadelphia: Tom Sestito (brother of Devils Tim)
Columbus: Greg Moore, Michael Chaput
Calgary: Fredrik Modin
Atlanta: 7th Round Pick
Vancouver: Chris Higgins
Florida: Evan Oberg, 3rd Round Pick
Montreal: Drew MacIntyre
Atlanta: Brett Festerling
So Far: (Page will be Edited)
St. Louis: 2nd Round Pick 2011
Buffalo: Brad Boyes
Florida: Niclas Bergfors, Patrick Rismiller
Atlanta: Radek Dvorak, 5th round pick 2011
Florida: Jake Hauswirth, 3rd Round Pick 2011
Washington: Dennis Wideman
Phoenix: Rostislav Klesla, Dane Byers
Columbus: Scottie Upshall, Sami Lepisto
Colorado: Shawn Belle
Edmonton: Kevin Montgomery
Florida: Sergei Samsonov
Carolina: Bryan Allen
Chicago: Chris Campoli
Ottawa: Ryan Potulny, 2nd Round Pick
Anaheim: Brad Winchester
St. Louis: 3rd round pick 2012
Los Angeles Kings: Dustin Penner
Edmonton: Colten Teubert, 1st round pick 2011, conditional draft pick.
NY Rangers: John Mitchell
Toronto: 7th round pick 2011
New Jersey: Dave Steckel, 2nd round pick
Washington: Jason Arnott
Vancouver: Maxim Lapierre, MacGregor Sharp
Anaheim: Joel Perreault, 3rd Round Pick
Philadelphia: Tom Sestito (brother of Devils Tim)
Columbus: Greg Moore, Michael Chaput
Calgary: Fredrik Modin
Atlanta: 7th Round Pick
Vancouver: Chris Higgins
Florida: Evan Oberg, 3rd Round Pick
Montreal: Drew MacIntyre
Atlanta: Brett Festerling
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils get back to within 9 poins of 8th with 2-1 win over Panthers, Will Arnott or other Devils be moved?
The Devils got back into the playoff chase with a 2-1 road victory over the Florida Panthers on goals by David Clarkson and Brian Rolston. Marty Reasoner scored the lone Panthers goal late int he 3rd, but it was not enough. Rolston scored the key power play goal for the Devils. Martin Brodeur was stellar in his return from injury with a 25 save effort on 26 Panthers shots. Devils also had 26 shots, but Vokoun stopped 24.
With the victory the Devils crawl back to 9 points behind Carolina for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Devils next play the Lightning on Wednesday night at Prudential Center, so they will hope to avenge Friday's setback.
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The NHL Trade Deadline is now about 15 hours away at 3 PM ET, and right now the question with the Devils is will Jason Arnott be moved and waive his no movement clause and will any other Devils be moved?
Arnott will become an unrestricted free agent this summer and given his age would like to play for a cup contender. He told Lou Lamoriello that it might be a huge gamble to remain with the Devils since they are fighting for a playoff spot. Look for Lou to explore a trade, but as many of you know, the price has to be right for the Devils to facilitate a trade for Jason Arnott. Other Devils which could be moved are Andy Greene, Johan Hedberg, David Clarkson and Adam Mair.
With the victory the Devils crawl back to 9 points behind Carolina for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Devils next play the Lightning on Wednesday night at Prudential Center, so they will hope to avenge Friday's setback.
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The NHL Trade Deadline is now about 15 hours away at 3 PM ET, and right now the question with the Devils is will Jason Arnott be moved and waive his no movement clause and will any other Devils be moved?
Arnott will become an unrestricted free agent this summer and given his age would like to play for a cup contender. He told Lou Lamoriello that it might be a huge gamble to remain with the Devils since they are fighting for a playoff spot. Look for Lou to explore a trade, but as many of you know, the price has to be right for the Devils to facilitate a trade for Jason Arnott. Other Devils which could be moved are Andy Greene, Johan Hedberg, David Clarkson and Adam Mair.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011: Rangers acquire Defenseman Bryan McCabe from Panthers
The NY Rangers today acquired defenseman Bryan McCabe from the Florida Panthers in exchange for forward Tim Kennedy and a 3rd round pick. In 48 games this season, McCabe has 5 goals and 17 assists and is +3. Kennedy has not played for the Rangers this season, so he might get some in Florida, but played 78 games for Buffalo last year and had 10 goals and 16 assists.
McCabe adds some depth to the Rangers defense and will help their power play. He has a hard shot, something the Rangers have missed in the past few years. He will become an unrestricted free agent this summer on July 1st. The NHL Trade Deadline is Monday at 3 PM, stay tuned for more deals.
McCabe adds some depth to the Rangers defense and will help their power play. He has a hard shot, something the Rangers have missed in the past few years. He will become an unrestricted free agent this summer on July 1st. The NHL Trade Deadline is Monday at 3 PM, stay tuned for more deals.
Friday, February 25, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils playoff hopes take a hit with 2-1 loss to the Lightning as Canes and Rangers both win
It was going to happen eventually and it did tonight when the Devils lost and ended their magical hot streak. Martin St. Louis and Devils killer Simon Gagne scored each had a goal off two face off wins in the 2nd period to lead Tampa Bay to a 2-1 victory. Mark Fayne scored the lone Devils goal. Shots were 30-20 Lightning and Johan Hedberg was the Devils best player in the loss. Kovalchuk continued his point streak at 11 games as he assisted on Fayne's lone goal.
Since the Devils lost and Carolina and the NY Rangers both won, this drops the Devils to 11 points behind the Canes and 14 behind the Rangers. So, every game basically becomes more and more crucial. They have 21 games remaining and at worst they would have to go 18-1-2 to get into the playoffs. Sunday's game at Florida will likely say a lot about what Lou Lamoriello does on Monday, the NHL Trade Deadline at 3 PM ET.
Jason Arnott will speak to Lou after Sunday's game as to whether he will request a trade or decide to ride out their magical run to the playoffs. With tonight's setback, Arnott is likely to give Lou the green light to explore trade possibilities. Other Devils likely to get looked at are Andy Greene, David Clarkson, Dainius Zubrus, Brian Rolston, Adam Mair and Patrik Elias.
I will blog on Sunday on the trade deadline and what moves are likely to be made by other teams and will blog during the playoff regardless if the Devils are in or not.
Since the Devils lost and Carolina and the NY Rangers both won, this drops the Devils to 11 points behind the Canes and 14 behind the Rangers. So, every game basically becomes more and more crucial. They have 21 games remaining and at worst they would have to go 18-1-2 to get into the playoffs. Sunday's game at Florida will likely say a lot about what Lou Lamoriello does on Monday, the NHL Trade Deadline at 3 PM ET.
Jason Arnott will speak to Lou after Sunday's game as to whether he will request a trade or decide to ride out their magical run to the playoffs. With tonight's setback, Arnott is likely to give Lou the green light to explore trade possibilities. Other Devils likely to get looked at are Andy Greene, David Clarkson, Dainius Zubrus, Brian Rolston, Adam Mair and Patrik Elias.
I will blog on Sunday on the trade deadline and what moves are likely to be made by other teams and will blog during the playoff regardless if the Devils are in or not.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils avenge season opening loss to Dallas with 1-0 shutout win in Dallas
It was the Dallas Stars who spoiled John MacLean's coaching debut in the NHL back on October 8th at Prudential Center when Loui Eriksson scored the game winner in overtime to seal a 4-3 victory. That game's first period offered most Devils fans hope that this was going to be a very special year, at least the first period did. But, an Ilya Kovalchuk post hit seemingly changed the complexion of that game, because seconds later Dallas cut a 2-0 Devils lead to a 2-1 lead. It was then, where things went downhill for John MacLean and the Devils. The Devils followed that OT loss with a 7-2 blowout loss to the Washington Capitals. In late December John MacLean was fired as Devils coach and replaced by Jacques Lemaire.
Last night, the Devils avenged the loss which started their first half misery and mystifying struggles. Newest Star Alex Goligoski took a penalty, which led to the only goal of the game, a Nick Palmieri power play goal. Hedberg made 19 saves for the shutout and it is his second in three games. The Devils struggled on the power play up until that goal, but an angry Jacques Lemaire send them a message before the fourth man advantage.
Shots were 23-19 Devils, but Dallas had the better of the play and more better chances. Anton Volchenkov saved the game for the Devils making a goalie save late in the 2nd. Overall, the Devils won their 8th straight and are now 9 points behind 8th seed Carolina.
Last night, the Devils avenged the loss which started their first half misery and mystifying struggles. Newest Star Alex Goligoski took a penalty, which led to the only goal of the game, a Nick Palmieri power play goal. Hedberg made 19 saves for the shutout and it is his second in three games. The Devils struggled on the power play up until that goal, but an angry Jacques Lemaire send them a message before the fourth man advantage.
Shots were 23-19 Devils, but Dallas had the better of the play and more better chances. Anton Volchenkov saved the game for the Devils making a goalie save late in the 2nd. Overall, the Devils won their 8th straight and are now 9 points behind 8th seed Carolina.
Monday, February 21, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011: Penguins acquire Neal, Niskanen from Stars for Goligoski
The Pittsburgh Penguins today added some scoring depth by acquiring winger James Neal and defenseman Matt Niskanen from the Dallas Stars in exchange for defenseman Alex Goligoski. Neal has 21 goals and 39 points in 59 games for Dallas and Niskanen has only 6 assists and no goals in 45 games this season and a -1 rating. Goligoski has 9 goals and 31 points in 60 games this season.
The trades just keep on coming and the deadline is next Monday the 28th at 3 PM ET. Goligoski was a fan and clubhouse favorite in Pittsburgh, but with the Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek signing this past summer, he was trade-able. Goligoski, like Martin is a Minnesota native and they are close friends. He was instrumental in wooing Martin to Pittsburgh from the Devils this past off-season. So, for Paul Martin this trade would be tough to digest for a short while.
With the season ending injury to Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins with this trade are able to fill his scoring void. Dallas also saves $2.5 million in cap space money with the trade. The Stars are also rumored to be interested in trading Brad Richards, with the NY Rangers as the most likely destination.
The trades just keep on coming and the deadline is next Monday the 28th at 3 PM ET. Goligoski was a fan and clubhouse favorite in Pittsburgh, but with the Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek signing this past summer, he was trade-able. Goligoski, like Martin is a Minnesota native and they are close friends. He was instrumental in wooing Martin to Pittsburgh from the Devils this past off-season. So, for Paul Martin this trade would be tough to digest for a short while.
With the season ending injury to Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins with this trade are able to fill his scoring void. Dallas also saves $2.5 million in cap space money with the trade. The Stars are also rumored to be interested in trading Brad Richards, with the NY Rangers as the most likely destination.
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Should Devils buy or sell by Next Moday at 3 PM ET?
The playoffs might still be a possibility for the Devils, but they are still 10 points out and it is is still a long shot since they have to leap frog so many teams before focusing on the 8th seed team that being Carolina at this moment. The NHL trade deadline is next Monday, February 28th at 3 PM ET, which is a rarity for the NHL since the deadline usually falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday or sometimes Thursday. The last two years it was on a Wednesday. So, the tough big question for the Devils is, should they be buyers, sellers or even neither?
For the Devils, they would like to have wished that the deadline would be next Thursday, March 3rd, because Parise is scheduled to visit his doctor to get clearance to practice on March 2nd, which would paint a much clearer picture for them for what to do. Jason Arnott is the most trade-able player on the team since he is slated to become an unrestricted free agent in the Summer and is open to being moved to a playoff team, but is also open to riding out the rest of the season with the Devils. It is not yet known if the Devils are interested in bringing him back for next year. On defense, Andy Greene is also a possibility to be traded since he will become unrestricted over the summer.
So, there you see it, the options for the Devils are limited due to the salary cap and the Parise questions. If they do buy to strengthen their depth, it would be tough to fit any of the new players in their line-up, so it might be better off for them to stand pat, because simply put, their struggles this year in my opinion is only a one year blunder and they should be good for next year with a few minor adjustments in the off-season. Their biggest need whether it be on deadline day or in the summer is resigning Parise, which as I have mentioned numerous times should be top priority 1 and 1A and 1B and puck moving defensemen to take pressure of the forward corps. If the Devils do make a deal, it will likely be for a puck moving D-Man. Their forward corps are filled and might be difficult to fit anyone new especially with Parise possibly coming back in late March-early April. Adam Mair might be moved for a draft pick just to get ready for a Parise return.
For the Devils, they would like to have wished that the deadline would be next Thursday, March 3rd, because Parise is scheduled to visit his doctor to get clearance to practice on March 2nd, which would paint a much clearer picture for them for what to do. Jason Arnott is the most trade-able player on the team since he is slated to become an unrestricted free agent in the Summer and is open to being moved to a playoff team, but is also open to riding out the rest of the season with the Devils. It is not yet known if the Devils are interested in bringing him back for next year. On defense, Andy Greene is also a possibility to be traded since he will become unrestricted over the summer.
So, there you see it, the options for the Devils are limited due to the salary cap and the Parise questions. If they do buy to strengthen their depth, it would be tough to fit any of the new players in their line-up, so it might be better off for them to stand pat, because simply put, their struggles this year in my opinion is only a one year blunder and they should be good for next year with a few minor adjustments in the off-season. Their biggest need whether it be on deadline day or in the summer is resigning Parise, which as I have mentioned numerous times should be top priority 1 and 1A and 1B and puck moving defensemen to take pressure of the forward corps. If the Devils do make a deal, it will likely be for a puck moving D-Man. Their forward corps are filled and might be difficult to fit anyone new especially with Parise possibly coming back in late March-early April. Adam Mair might be moved for a draft pick just to get ready for a Parise return.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils complete sweep of 12 day showdown over Hurricanes, win 4-1
In a week in which the Devils were supposed to lose all three games, they managed to win all of them. The biggest one came last night against 8th seed Carolina, who now leads the Devils by 10 points for the final playoff berth. Dainius Zubrus scored twice, Rolston and Tallinder had the other goals to lead the Devils to a 4-1 victory in Carolina. Patrick Dwyer had the Canes lone goal.
Shots were even at 25, but Hedberg continued his stellar play making 24 saves. Kovalchuk had no goals, but had a key assist as he continued his point streak. The Elias line continued to shut down the Staal line of the Hurricanes. Jacob Josefson returned to the Devils line-up and Adam Mair sat out. He played very well with Arnott and Tedenby. It was the first game this year that Tedenby and Josefson played together other than the preseason.
Shots were even at 25, but Hedberg continued his stellar play making 24 saves. Kovalchuk had no goals, but had a key assist as he continued his point streak. The Elias line continued to shut down the Staal line of the Hurricanes. Jacob Josefson returned to the Devils line-up and Adam Mair sat out. He played very well with Arnott and Tedenby. It was the first game this year that Tedenby and Josefson played together other than the preseason.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011: Busy Friday goes into an overnight shocker as Blues-Avs complete blockbuster
Rarely is there an NHL trade which is done at about 1 or 2 in the morning Eastern Time, but that happened today. The St. Louis Blues continued to trade defenseman, hours after sending captain Eric Brewer to the Tampa Bay Lightning, they have traded former #1 overall pick defenseman Erik Johnson and forward Jay McClement to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for forward Chris Stewart and rookie defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk.
I guess the NHL GM's do not realize that the Trade Deadline is February 28th at 3 PM ET.
In 55 games, Johnson has 5 goals and 14 assists but is a -8 rating. McClement has 6 goals and 10 assists and is a -13 in 56 games. In 36 games, Stewart has 13 goals, 17 assists and is a -10 and Shattenkirk has 7 goals and 19 assists in 46 games but is a -11. So, basically all four are minus players, but are very effective. Johnson was the first overall pick in 2006.
I guess the NHL GM's do not realize that the Trade Deadline is February 28th at 3 PM ET.
In 55 games, Johnson has 5 goals and 14 assists but is a -8 rating. McClement has 6 goals and 10 assists and is a -13 in 56 games. In 36 games, Stewart has 13 goals, 17 assists and is a -10 and Shattenkirk has 7 goals and 19 assists in 46 games but is a -11. So, basically all four are minus players, but are very effective. Johnson was the first overall pick in 2006.
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Kovalchuk the hero again in 1-0 shutout over Rangers
After losing the first two against the Rangers at the Prudential Center, the Devils salvaged this years rivalry with A 1-0 statement win over Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers. Ilya Kovalchuk scored the lone Devils goal and the only one in the game. Johan Hedberg made 16 saves in the blanking while Henrik Lundqvist made 27 saves on 28 shots.
Kovalchuk's goal is his 21st of the season as he continues his consecutive games point streak. Tonight, the Devils visit the 8th seed Hurricanes to wrap up their 3 games in 12 days showdown and also their season series. The Hurricanes defeated the Flyers 3-2 yesterday. Anton Volchenkov returned from his 3 game suspension yesterday and Adam Mair returned to the line-up while Tim Sestito was sent back to Albany.
Kovalchuk's goal is his 21st of the season as he continues his consecutive games point streak. Tonight, the Devils visit the 8th seed Hurricanes to wrap up their 3 games in 12 days showdown and also their season series. The Hurricanes defeated the Flyers 3-2 yesterday. Anton Volchenkov returned from his 3 game suspension yesterday and Adam Mair returned to the line-up while Tim Sestito was sent back to Albany.
Friday, February 18, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011: Busy Friday as Kaberle saga ends with him going to Boston, Also other trades in this post
Tomas Kaberle's days with the Toronto Maple Leafs are finally over as he gets his dream of going to the Boston Bruins in exchange for top Bruins prospect Joe Colborne and Boston's late first round pick in 2011. In 58 games this season, Kaberle has 3 goals and 35 assists for the Leafs and will bring his puck mobility skills to Beantown. The Bruins have already tried numerous times to acquire Kaberle, but offers were short of the asking price.
Kaberle will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but reports out of Boston is that the two sides will try to agree to a contract extension which would give the Leafs a conditional 2nd round pick in 2012 Draft. The Leafs would also receive that 2012 pick if Boston makes it all the way to the Finals. So, the Leafs who had no 1st round picks in this years draft now have two, one from Philly in the Versteeg trade and one from Boston in the Kaberle trade. So, once again proves why Brian Burke does not wait for the deadline.
Colborne was the Bruins mid first round pick in 2008. He will report to the Marlies, the Leafs AHL affiliate.
Here is the list of players the Leafs have acquired in their recent week of trade activity:
Joffrey Lupul
Jake Gardiner
Conditional 2011 pick
2011 1st Rounders from Phi and Bos
3rd Rounder from Phi
Conditional 2nd rounder from Bos in 2012
Aaron Voros
Joe Colborne
Given Up:
Conditional 7th round pick to Ana for Voros
Francois Beauchemin
Kris Versteeg
Tomas Kaberle
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Boston continued to be busy by acquiring forward Rich Peverley and defenseman Boris Valabik from the Atlanta Thrashers for forward Blake Wheeler and defenseman Mark Stuart. Good size-able pick ups for both teams. Wheeler has 11 goals and 16 assists for Boston while Peverly has 14 goals and 20 assists for Atlanta. Stuart has one goal and four assists and Valabik has been in the AHL for Atlanta and is likely headed to Providence Bruins.
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The Senators continued to clean house well sort off in this deal and sent goaltender Brian Elliott to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for their goaltender Craig Anderson, should give them both fresh starts.
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Stay tuned for more, I think we will see another deal today or this weekend.
Kaberle will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but reports out of Boston is that the two sides will try to agree to a contract extension which would give the Leafs a conditional 2nd round pick in 2012 Draft. The Leafs would also receive that 2012 pick if Boston makes it all the way to the Finals. So, the Leafs who had no 1st round picks in this years draft now have two, one from Philly in the Versteeg trade and one from Boston in the Kaberle trade. So, once again proves why Brian Burke does not wait for the deadline.
Colborne was the Bruins mid first round pick in 2008. He will report to the Marlies, the Leafs AHL affiliate.
Here is the list of players the Leafs have acquired in their recent week of trade activity:
Joffrey Lupul
Jake Gardiner
Conditional 2011 pick
2011 1st Rounders from Phi and Bos
3rd Rounder from Phi
Conditional 2nd rounder from Bos in 2012
Aaron Voros
Joe Colborne
Given Up:
Conditional 7th round pick to Ana for Voros
Francois Beauchemin
Kris Versteeg
Tomas Kaberle
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Boston continued to be busy by acquiring forward Rich Peverley and defenseman Boris Valabik from the Atlanta Thrashers for forward Blake Wheeler and defenseman Mark Stuart. Good size-able pick ups for both teams. Wheeler has 11 goals and 16 assists for Boston while Peverly has 14 goals and 20 assists for Atlanta. Stuart has one goal and four assists and Valabik has been in the AHL for Atlanta and is likely headed to Providence Bruins.
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The Senators continued to clean house well sort off in this deal and sent goaltender Brian Elliott to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for their goaltender Craig Anderson, should give them both fresh starts.
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Stay tuned for more, I think we will see another deal today or this weekend.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils survive late Hurricanes scare, win 3-2
Every game from now on is a must win for the Devils and tonight's game especially and they pulled out a 3-2 win over 8th seed Carolina. Ilya Kovalchuk, Brian Rolston and Patrik Elias had the Devils goals, while Sergei Samsonov and Tuomo Ruutu scored for Carolina. The Devils had a 3-0 lead, but Carolina scored two late goals including one with 4.1 seconds to go to make it 3-2. Shots were 27-22 Carolina and a bulk of them in the 3rd period.
The Devils will play the Rangers at home on Friday night and travel to Carolina on Saturday night to complete the 3 games in 12 days showdown. Anton Volchenkov will return to the line-up this Friday after serving his 3 game suspension for the elbow on Zack Boychuk of Carolina last Tuesday night. Martin Brodeur will return to practice and there could be an outside shot he might be able to play on Saturday night, but its highly unlikely. Hedberg continues to be strong for the Devils as he is now at .500.
Zach Parise has a March 2nd appointment at the Cleveland Clinic to hopefully get the green light to resume skating. He has been doing some off-ice workouts, but he is about 4-6 weeks away from returning to game action, but it could be sooner. Parise is hoping that the Devils will still be playing meaningful hockey when he does return. His impending return will definitely force Lou Lamoriello to make hard decisions on who to trade or return to Albany. Sestito is likely the odd-man out.
The Devils will play the Rangers at home on Friday night and travel to Carolina on Saturday night to complete the 3 games in 12 days showdown. Anton Volchenkov will return to the line-up this Friday after serving his 3 game suspension for the elbow on Zack Boychuk of Carolina last Tuesday night. Martin Brodeur will return to practice and there could be an outside shot he might be able to play on Saturday night, but its highly unlikely. Hedberg continues to be strong for the Devils as he is now at .500.
Zach Parise has a March 2nd appointment at the Cleveland Clinic to hopefully get the green light to resume skating. He has been doing some off-ice workouts, but he is about 4-6 weeks away from returning to game action, but it could be sooner. Parise is hoping that the Devils will still be playing meaningful hockey when he does return. His impending return will definitely force Lou Lamoriello to make hard decisions on who to trade or return to Albany. Sestito is likely the odd-man out.
Monday, February 14, 2011
NHL Trade Deadline 2011: Leafs trade Versteeg to Flyers for 2011 1st and 3rd round picks
With the NHL Trade Deadline officially less than two weeks away, I will post any breaking trades on my blog.
The Leafs continued their busy trade deadline preparations by trading skilled forward Kris Versteeg to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for their 1st and 3rd round picks in this years Draft. Versteeg has 14 goals and 21 assists, but is a minus 13. He will help the Flyers already deep offensive corps.
It will be a late first round pick for the Leafs though, but at least they get back a first round pick. Had they not signed Kessel in October 2010, they could have had a high first round pick, but the Bruins will again have a high pick this year as they did this past year when they took Tyler Seguin with the #2 overall pick. This trade is good for both teams.
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-This past Friday the Leafs traded defenseman Francois Beauchemin to Anaheim for Joffrey Lupul, Jake Gardiner and a conditional draft pick.
-Also, the Senators traded Center Mike Fisher to the Nashville Predators for their first round pick. Fisher is married to Carrie Underwood, a country star based in Nashville.
The Leafs continued their busy trade deadline preparations by trading skilled forward Kris Versteeg to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for their 1st and 3rd round picks in this years Draft. Versteeg has 14 goals and 21 assists, but is a minus 13. He will help the Flyers already deep offensive corps.
It will be a late first round pick for the Leafs though, but at least they get back a first round pick. Had they not signed Kessel in October 2010, they could have had a high first round pick, but the Bruins will again have a high pick this year as they did this past year when they took Tyler Seguin with the #2 overall pick. This trade is good for both teams.
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-This past Friday the Leafs traded defenseman Francois Beauchemin to Anaheim for Joffrey Lupul, Jake Gardiner and a conditional draft pick.
-Also, the Senators traded Center Mike Fisher to the Nashville Predators for their first round pick. Fisher is married to Carrie Underwood, a country star based in Nashville.
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Kovalchuk continues to rescue Devils as they beat Sharks 2-1 (late post), Parise not expecting contract talks
Sorry for the extremely late delay, but Kovalchuk continued to play hero for the Devils for a 2nd straight night, this time beating the Sharks 2-1. All the scoring came in period 3, but the Devils had to rally from a 1-0 deficit to beat San Jose. With the win, the Devils avenged their loss to them back in late October in San Jose 5-2.
Brian Rolston scored the other Devils goal, while Patrick Marleau scored the lone Sharks goal. Johan Hedberg and Antii Niemi were great as goaltenders for each respective teams. Hedberg stopped 31 of 32 shots.
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Though he could be the next captain of the Devils, Zach Parise has not yet been approached about a contract extension. He is slated to become a restricted free agent this summer and will attract offer sheets from many teams. The Devils are absolutely ready to match any offer sheet he signs. If they fail to match, Parise would be worth a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft from the team that signs him to that respective offer sheet.
Parise is currently on LTIR due to a torn meniscus and is expected to return to game action in 4-6 weeks from today or late March-early April. He has a doctors appointment on March 2nd, where he is expected to get the green light to resume skating. He tried to move up his visit to the doctor, but was denied. Contract talks with the face of the Devils franchise will likely happen during the off-season as no side wants to go to arbitration. Parise is priority 1 and 1A.
Brian Rolston scored the other Devils goal, while Patrick Marleau scored the lone Sharks goal. Johan Hedberg and Antii Niemi were great as goaltenders for each respective teams. Hedberg stopped 31 of 32 shots.
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Though he could be the next captain of the Devils, Zach Parise has not yet been approached about a contract extension. He is slated to become a restricted free agent this summer and will attract offer sheets from many teams. The Devils are absolutely ready to match any offer sheet he signs. If they fail to match, Parise would be worth a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft from the team that signs him to that respective offer sheet.
Parise is currently on LTIR due to a torn meniscus and is expected to return to game action in 4-6 weeks from today or late March-early April. He has a doctors appointment on March 2nd, where he is expected to get the green light to resume skating. He tried to move up his visit to the doctor, but was denied. Contract talks with the face of the Devils franchise will likely happen during the off-season as no side wants to go to arbitration. Parise is priority 1 and 1A.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils defeat Leafs in overtime for 3rd straight win
The Devils finally escaped Toronto with a win on a highlight reel goal by Ilya Kovalchuk. Toronto has had the Devils number in recent years especially after Ron Wilson took over as coach in 2008. The Leafs held a 7-1-2 edge against the Devils in the last 10 games, all under the Wilson era. However, the Devils were able to grind out a victory to get within 13 points of 8th place Carolina with 28 games left.
Shots were 39-32 in favor of the Devils, but there were some defensive breakdowns by both teams. Leafs held a 1-0 lead until Zubrus deflected a Mark Fayne shot from the point to tie it at 1. Nikolai Kulemin scored the lone Devils goal. Brian Rolston hit the post in overtime a few minutes before Kovy's winner.
Tomorrow night, the Devils return home to face the surging San Jose Sharks, who are 9-0-1 in their last 10 games. San Jose defeated the Devils 5-2 in an earlier match-up this season in San Jose, but that was when the Devils were just flat out awful and still being coached by John MacLean, who had no answers for any of the Devils problems. It will be another tough game for the Devils, considering that the Sharks were off tonight.
Shots were 39-32 in favor of the Devils, but there were some defensive breakdowns by both teams. Leafs held a 1-0 lead until Zubrus deflected a Mark Fayne shot from the point to tie it at 1. Nikolai Kulemin scored the lone Devils goal. Brian Rolston hit the post in overtime a few minutes before Kovy's winner.
Tomorrow night, the Devils return home to face the surging San Jose Sharks, who are 9-0-1 in their last 10 games. San Jose defeated the Devils 5-2 in an earlier match-up this season in San Jose, but that was when the Devils were just flat out awful and still being coached by John MacLean, who had no answers for any of the Devils problems. It will be another tough game for the Devils, considering that the Sharks were off tonight.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Volchenkov gets three game suspension, Devils bring back Jay Leach for Albany duty
Devils defenseman Anton Volchenkov received a hard liner from the NHL in a form of a 3 game suspension for his elbow to the head of Hurricanes forward Zack Boychuk. In my view it was a harsh penalty, but this suspension just adds to his bad night last night in the Devils 3-2 overtime victory over the Canes. Carolina had 3 power plays and Volchenkov served all three penalties. He barely played a shift after the 3rd one. Volchenkov is a huge loss for the next 3 games and will miss tomorrow's game against the Leafs, Friday vs Sharks and next Wednesday against these same Hurricanes.
The Devils today completed a minor-league deal with the San Jose Sharks by acquiring defenseman Jay Leach, who played for the Devils in 2008-2009 and forward Steve Zalewski for center Michael Swift and forward Patrick Davis. Davis has one career NHL goal in a game for the Devils last season and Swift has no NHL experience. Both Leach and Zalewski will report to Albany, though do not be surprised of Leach gets the call up. He would not have to clear waivers to go to the Devils. Leach was claimed by Montreal Canadiens last season when he was called up by the Devils, but he had to clear waivers and later in the year was claimed by San Jose, when the Habs no longer needed him. He played very well in 08-09 when he was with Devils.
The Devils today completed a minor-league deal with the San Jose Sharks by acquiring defenseman Jay Leach, who played for the Devils in 2008-2009 and forward Steve Zalewski for center Michael Swift and forward Patrick Davis. Davis has one career NHL goal in a game for the Devils last season and Swift has no NHL experience. Both Leach and Zalewski will report to Albany, though do not be surprised of Leach gets the call up. He would not have to clear waivers to go to the Devils. Leach was claimed by Montreal Canadiens last season when he was called up by the Devils, but he had to clear waivers and later in the year was claimed by San Jose, when the Habs no longer needed him. He played very well in 08-09 when he was with Devils.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils rally to get crucial overtime victory over Hurricanes as Tedenby amd Palmieri continue effectiveness
It probably was not the effort Jacques Lemaire was looking for, but the Devils managed to escape their home arena with an overtime victory over the 8th seed Carolina Hurricanes. Mattias Tedenby scored twice including the game winner in overtime and Nick Palmieri tied the game at 2 late in the 3rd. Final score 3-2 Devils (OT). The Devils won today despite having no power plays as Carolina played the discipline card very well. Tedenby and Palmieri have been playing really well in the past few games.
Anton Volchenkov took three penalties and was benched after the third one. Carolina was 2-3 on their power play while the Devils were as mentioned above 0-0. Potential Calder Trophy winner for Rookie of the Year Jeff Skinner had the two Carolina goals. It was a battle of the youth if you want to break down the game. Shots were 34-22 Devils and 19-5 Devils in the 3rd period. Jason Arnott had a post hit int he first period and Patrik Elias had a short-handed breakaway, so they could have won it in regulation. The Devils also had a late 3rd period flurry after they tied the score at two.
With the win, the Devils are now 15 points out of the 8th spot and will face the Hurricanes twice more in the next 11 days. These will be the most crucial games for them as they march to hopefully rallying to make the playoffs. Mattias Tedenby and Nick Palmieri are making strong cases to remain on the roster when and if Parise returns from injury. It seems as if Tim Sestito or Rod Pelley would be the odd players out it happens.
Anton Volchenkov took three penalties and was benched after the third one. Carolina was 2-3 on their power play while the Devils were as mentioned above 0-0. Potential Calder Trophy winner for Rookie of the Year Jeff Skinner had the two Carolina goals. It was a battle of the youth if you want to break down the game. Shots were 34-22 Devils and 19-5 Devils in the 3rd period. Jason Arnott had a post hit int he first period and Patrik Elias had a short-handed breakaway, so they could have won it in regulation. The Devils also had a late 3rd period flurry after they tied the score at two.
With the win, the Devils are now 15 points out of the 8th spot and will face the Hurricanes twice more in the next 11 days. These will be the most crucial games for them as they march to hopefully rallying to make the playoffs. Mattias Tedenby and Nick Palmieri are making strong cases to remain on the roster when and if Parise returns from injury. It seems as if Tim Sestito or Rod Pelley would be the odd players out it happens.
Monday, February 7, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Lemaire might return next year, but retirement still
With the Devils playing their best string of hockey of the season, speculation has increased that Jacques Lemaire might return to coach the team next year for 2011-2012. The Devils are currently 16 points out of the 8th spot and have 3 games against the 8th seeded Hurricanes in the next 12 days which could decide their fate. If the Devils make the playoffs, Lemaire will have tough time going back into retirement and might think about coaching the team next year.
Lemaire also said, he will not speak about next year or his plans until the end of the season, meaning the earliest he will give an answer is after Game 82 on April 10 against the Bruins on home ice. If the Devils miss the playoffs, chances are much higher that he goes back into retirement. However, it seems as if retirement is more likely than returning next year.
Lemaire also said that there is nothing anyone could do to convince him to return. But, Ilya Kovalchuk and Brian Rolston might make huge pushes for him to come back and coach one more year. There will be many questions and ramifications from who-ever coaches the Devils next year like how will it affect Parise's future with the Devils?
Lemaire also said, he will not speak about next year or his plans until the end of the season, meaning the earliest he will give an answer is after Game 82 on April 10 against the Bruins on home ice. If the Devils miss the playoffs, chances are much higher that he goes back into retirement. However, it seems as if retirement is more likely than returning next year.
Lemaire also said that there is nothing anyone could do to convince him to return. But, Ilya Kovalchuk and Brian Rolston might make huge pushes for him to come back and coach one more year. There will be many questions and ramifications from who-ever coaches the Devils next year like how will it affect Parise's future with the Devils?
Sunday, February 6, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils continue success in Montreal, beat Habs 4-1, Brodeur hurt
Montreal is definitely a home away from home for the New Jersey Devils. The Devils have now won 6 straight there after today's emotional 4-1 victory over the Habs. Ilya Kovalchuk scored twice along with Dainius Zubrus and Travis Zajac. P.K. Subban tallied the lone goal for Montreal. Shots were 29-26 Devils in the game, but the power play was still empty for NJ.
Martin Brodeur tweaked his knee late in the first period and was relieved by Johan Hedberg, who looked a little shaky, but managed to survive a Montreal onslaught in the second. Brodeur though said he was fine and should be ready to go this Tuesday against the Hurricanes.
The Devils will face the Hurricanes 3 times in 12 days starting this Tuesday. Carolina currently occupies the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Devils are 18 points out of it. So, these Carolina match-ups are very crucial to possibly determining their long-shot fate to sneak into the playoffs. This week, the Devils play on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday against Carolina, Toronto, and San Jose respectively. After that they have a 4 day break before returning to face Carolina at home on Wednesday, February 16th. Should be an interesting week for the Devils.
Martin Brodeur tweaked his knee late in the first period and was relieved by Johan Hedberg, who looked a little shaky, but managed to survive a Montreal onslaught in the second. Brodeur though said he was fine and should be ready to go this Tuesday against the Hurricanes.
The Devils will face the Hurricanes 3 times in 12 days starting this Tuesday. Carolina currently occupies the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Devils are 18 points out of it. So, these Carolina match-ups are very crucial to possibly determining their long-shot fate to sneak into the playoffs. This week, the Devils play on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday against Carolina, Toronto, and San Jose respectively. After that they have a 4 day break before returning to face Carolina at home on Wednesday, February 16th. Should be an interesting week for the Devils.
Friday, February 4, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils lost it Overtime to Panthers 4-3 as Power Play continues to struggle
Special Teams was the key in tonight's Devils, Panthers game as the Panthers scored a Power Play goal and a shorthanded goal as well as two even-strength ones to get a 4-3 overtime victory over Johan Hedberg and the Devils. Travis Zajac, Jason Arnott and Mark Fayne scored for the Devils while Chris Higgins, Dennis Wideman, Mike Santorelli and Rostislav Olesz for the Panthers. Shots were 31-29 for the Devils, but Ilya Kovalchuk's turnover late in the 3rd on the power play led to the Panthers short-hander which changed the complexion of the game.
Johan Hedberg took the blame for the loss, but the Devils special teams continue to somewhat struggle especially their power play. Also, they have not been sharp defensively and are turning the puck over a lot or spending time in their own end. Next, the Devils head to Montreal to face the Habs on Super Bowl Sunday. But, the Devils managed to get a point and are now 17 points behind the Thrashers, who were idle tonight.
Johan Hedberg took the blame for the loss, but the Devils special teams continue to somewhat struggle especially their power play. Also, they have not been sharp defensively and are turning the puck over a lot or spending time in their own end. Next, the Devils head to Montreal to face the Habs on Super Bowl Sunday. But, the Devils managed to get a point and are now 17 points behind the Thrashers, who were idle tonight.
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Devils finally solve Lundqvist, but narrowly hang on to beat Rangers
MSG's Stan Fischler labels a 3-0 lead in a hockey game the most dangerous one, because it can easily be broken. Yesterday, the Devils experienced just that as they chased Henrik Lundqvist to the bench after a 3-0 lead, but still the final score was 3-2 with a last second post hit by the Rangers. In fact, the Rangers out shot the Devils 27-18 in the game and 15-2 in the 3rd period. Lundqvist made 9 saves on 12 shots, while Biron stopped all the 6 he saw. The score could have been 4-3 Rangers if those two post hits were actually goals, because Brandon Dubinsky had a wide open net late in the 1st period, but ended up hitting the cross-bar.
Ilya Kovalchuk, Dainius Zubrus and Brian Rolston scored for the Devils, while Ryan Callahan and Vinny Prospal for the Rangers. Brian Rolston continues his somewhat resurgence for the Devils, so it will be interesting if other NHL scouts and teams could show interest in him by the deadline assuming the Devils will be in seller mode. This was the Devils first victory over the Rangers this season and they are now 2-5 over the New York area teams. However, Lundqvist still manages to own Brodeur in their career head-to-head affairs.
The Devils play host to the Florida Panthers tonight and will visit the Montreal Canadiens on Super Bowl Sunday at a 3 o'clock matinee. This years NHL trade deadline is on Monday, February 28th, which is a strange date, because usually it is a Tuesday or Wednesday. We might see a busy Sunday and Monday.
Ilya Kovalchuk, Dainius Zubrus and Brian Rolston scored for the Devils, while Ryan Callahan and Vinny Prospal for the Rangers. Brian Rolston continues his somewhat resurgence for the Devils, so it will be interesting if other NHL scouts and teams could show interest in him by the deadline assuming the Devils will be in seller mode. This was the Devils first victory over the Rangers this season and they are now 2-5 over the New York area teams. However, Lundqvist still manages to own Brodeur in their career head-to-head affairs.
The Devils play host to the Florida Panthers tonight and will visit the Montreal Canadiens on Super Bowl Sunday at a 3 o'clock matinee. This years NHL trade deadline is on Monday, February 28th, which is a strange date, because usually it is a Tuesday or Wednesday. We might see a busy Sunday and Monday.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
R.I.P 2010-2011 New Jersey Devils: Struggling Devils beat Struggling Senators 2-1, minority of Devils for sale
The sort of red hot Devils are the latest team to add to the Senators woes beating them 2-1 in what could have been a lop-sided game. The Devils out-shot the Sens 33-16, but the score was only 201, which shows you why these two teams are at the bottom of the NHL circuit. Dainius Zubrus and Nick Palmieri scored for the Devils and Alex Kovalev for the Sens.
The big star of the game was Senators goaltender Robin Lehner of Sweden, who saved 31 of 33. Ottawa only had a good effort midway through the 3rd period, but the Devils managed to survive the onslaught and score minutes later by Zubrus. There was a small crowd at the Arena tonight due to the ice and rain.
As many of you know the minority stake of the Devils is for sale, not Jeffrey Vanderbeek's portion. The Devils will remain in New Jersey and no-one should panic. Colin White returned to the line-up and Fayne, Urbom and Tedenby were scratches.
The big star of the game was Senators goaltender Robin Lehner of Sweden, who saved 31 of 33. Ottawa only had a good effort midway through the 3rd period, but the Devils managed to survive the onslaught and score minutes later by Zubrus. There was a small crowd at the Arena tonight due to the ice and rain.
As many of you know the minority stake of the Devils is for sale, not Jeffrey Vanderbeek's portion. The Devils will remain in New Jersey and no-one should panic. Colin White returned to the line-up and Fayne, Urbom and Tedenby were scratches.
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