Posts Tagged Joe Thornton
2011-12 Top 30 Salary Cap Numbers – Center
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on August 25th, 2011
List below are the Top 30 Salary Cap Numbers for centers heading into the 2011-12 NHL season. Due to front-loading contracts (back-loaded in some cases), and teams having to deal with the salary cap, a players cap number takes precedence over their actual salary.
| Rk. | Player | Team | 2011-12 Cap Number | 2011-12 Salary |
| 1 | Sidney Crosby | PIT | $8,700,000 | $9,000,000 |
| Evgeni Malkin | PIT | $8,700,000 | $9,000,000 | |
| 3 | Eric Staal | CAR | $8,250,000 | $7,750,000 |
| 4 | Vincent Lecavalier | TBL | $7,727,000 | $10,000,000 |
| 5 | Steven Stamkos | TBL | $7,500,000 | $8,000,000 |
| 6 | Scott Gomez | MTL | $7,357,000 | $7,500,000 |
| 7 | Jason Spezza | OTT | $7,000,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Joe Thornton | SJS | $7,000,000 | $8,000,000 | |
| 9 | Patrick Marleau | SJS | $6,900,000 | $6,900,000 |
| 10 | Anze Kopitar | LAK | $6,800,000 | $6,400,000 |
| 11 | Mikko Koivu | MIN | $6,750,000 | $7,290,000 |
| 12 | Pavel Datsyuk | DET | $6,700,000 | $6,700,000 |
| 13 | Nicklas Backstrom | WAS | $6,700,000 | $6,000,000 |
| 14 | Brad Richards | NYR | $6,667,000 | $12,000,000 |
| 15 | Paul Stastny | COL | $6,600,000 | $6,600,000 |
| 16 | Daniel Briere | PHI | $6,500,000 | $7,000,000 |
| 17 | Jonathan Toews | CHI | $6,300,000 | $6,000,000 |
| 18 | Henrik Sedin | VAN | $6,100,000 | $6,100,000 |
| 19 | Mike Richards | LAK | $5,750,000 | $6,600,000 |
| 20 | Shawn Horcoff | EDM | $5,500,000 | $6,500,000 |
| 21 | Ryan Getzlaf | ANA | $5,325,000 | $5,750,000 |
| 22 | Jeff Carter | CLB | $5,273,000 | $6,000,000 |
| 23 | Ryan Kesler | VAN | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Tomas Plekanec | MTL | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 | |
| Patrice Bergeron | BOS | $5,000,000 | $5,900,000 | |
| Mike Ribeiro | DAL | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 | |
| 27 | Tim Connolly | TOR | $4,750,000 | $5,500,000 |
| 28 | Andy McDonald | STL | $4,700,000 | $4,200,000 |
| 29 | Daymond Langkow | CGY | $4,500,000 | $4,500,000 |
| David Legwand | NAS | $4,500,000 | $4,500,000 | |
| David Backes | STL | $4,500,000 | $4,500,000 | |
| Brooks Laich | WAS | $4,500,000 | $6,500,000 | |
| Tomas Fleischmann | FLA | $4,500,000 | $4,500,000 |
Richards has no intention of waiving NTC despite Leafs rumors … Stars offered Richards 3 and 4 year deals … Caps could shop Varlamov … Alfie to have surgery
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 7th, 2011
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: “The Stars have not asked Brad to waive his no-trade clause, and at this point in time, he has no intention of doing so,” agent Pat Morris told the Daily News when told of a source saying the Maple Leafs could make a deal with the Stars. “We’re still pointing toward July 1.” According to the source, “It’s legit” and “Toronto is desperate for a star like this.” The source added that the Maple Leafs felt close enough to a deal, that they have other deals in place to clear up some cap space. Richards has a no trade clause and his agent sees no reason to do a deal without letting other teams bid for his services. Morris said they could possibly consider a deal, but hadn’t heard of any trade that Nieuwendyk was working on.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: According to a source, Richards received offers from the Stars at the trade deadline of either Joe Thornton’s or Patrick Marleau’s contract. Thornton received a 3 year deal worth $21 million, a $7 million cap hit. Marleau received a 4 year contract worth $27.6 million, a $6.9 million cap hit. Tom Gaglardi’s offer to buy the Stars could be finished by the end of the week. All sides would then have to have “pre-packaged bankruptcy hearing,” which could take 30 days or longer to complete.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Nieuwendyk doesn’t have the Stars budget for next season yet, but expects it to be higher than the $47 million from last season. They currently have 17 players under contract for approximately $38 million.
“I think our first hurdle is to find out what our budget will be, and we should know that soon,” Nieuwendyk said. “But by [the lenders] giving us the ability to go out and sign Brad, it says that our payroll will be higher, so we’ll have some money to play with.
“We’re looking at free agency, we have our list and the guys initially we want to target. There’s money to be spent and players to go get.”
The Stars could use a scoring winger or two, and a top defenseman.
“I think we need a top-six forward,” Nieuwendyk said. “Maybe we get there through trade, too. I think the opportunity through trade is probably a more likely scenario than overpaying through free agency.”
- Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets need to send a message to fans, and make a move to improve the team. GM Scott Howson is dangling the 8th overall pick in this year’s draft for immediate help. They need to make a bold move to acquire top line forward or defenseman. Will he find a center for Rick Nash? Does he include Jake Voracek in a deal?
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Semyon Varlamov is a RFA and the Capitals could use his upside as part of a trade this season. The Caps have 2 other young goalies in Michal Neuvirth and Braden Holtby. Varlamov could be number 1 goalie in the NHL, but he has had injury issues in the past. He’s said he’d like to stay in Washington, his agent has said that KHL teams are interested.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Reports are saying that Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson will have back surgery, recovery time is said to be 4 to 6 weeks. Alfredsson appeared in only 54 games this past season as he was bothered by back issues. The Sens are “99% certain” that they will keep the 6th overall pick in the draft. They will likely pick one of Sean Couturier, Ryan Strome, Mika Zibanejad, Gabriel Landeskog, Jonathan Huberdeau or possibly Dougie Hamilton.
Blues notes … Huberdeau at #2? Filatov to stay in N.A. … Sharks injuries … Carter to Leafs rumor
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 27th, 2011
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: The Blues may look to the trade route to add an established forward, and they have three 2nd round picks. The Blues are in talks with Patrick Berglund about a contract extension, and it could be done before another club could sign him to an offer sheet. Rutherford doesn’t see the Blues trading Oshie, though it is possible. Oshie may be popping up in rumors as teams are inquiring about him, not the Blues shopping him. If Ed Jovanovski took a big pay cut from his $6.5 million salary, he might fit the Blues need for a veteran defenseman.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Jonathan Huberdeau’s name is gaining some buzz as a possible pick for the Colorado Avalanche at #2. He’s listed as a center, and the Avs are deep there, but he can play the wing.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Nikita Filatov shot down rumors that he’s returning to the KHL, said he’s determined to make the NHL with Columbus.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes prospect Oskar Osala tweeted that he’ll be heading to Russia to play in the KHL next season. Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford isn’t convince this will happen. Last week Rutherford noted, “I don’t think it would be a good choice for him because we’re calling these players up and if you’re capable, there will be a spot here,” Rutherford said last week. “He’s a big guy. He needs to improve his foot speed. If he can get a half-step (faster), he’s a guy who might have a chance to play here.”
- Brodie Brazil (CSN California) via twitter: Sharks winger Dany Heatley was playing with a broken hand for much of the late regular season, and he twisted his ankle bad in Game 3. Logan Couture broke his nose in Game 3. Joe Thornton’s left pinky tip was not attached to the rest of his finger. Ryane Clowe’s injured should was so bad he couldn’t even put on his own sweater during the Canaucks series. Jason Demers suffered a high ankle sprain in Game 7 versus the Red Wings.
- Ben Raby of CSN Washington: The Capitals could be looking to add a veteran who can kill penalties, win faceoffs and help fill out the 3rd and 4th lines. Possible candidates include unrestricted free agents Scott Nichol (SJ), Marcel Goc (Nash), John Madden (Minn) and Jeff Halpern (Mon) or possible prospects Jay Beagle and Cody Eakin.
- Ryan Bright of Philadelphia Sports Daily: Jeff Carter trade rumors to Toronto are back. Possible trade rumor pieces are one of Toronto two 1st round picks, Carl Gunnarsson and a prospect such as Joe Colborne, Jerry D’Amigo and possibly Nazem Kadri. The Flyers could then flip some or all of the that package to another team for a starting goalie. Goalie possibilities would be Miikka Kiprusoff, Cory Schneider, Jonathan Quick or the rights to Ilya Bryzgalov. Teams that could use a top center are the Leafs, Oilers, Senators, and Coyotes.
Isles re-sign Okposo for 5 years … Thornton’s and other Sharks injuries … Preds will match any Weber offer sheets
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 26th, 2011
- The New York Times: The NY Islanders have locked Kyle Okposo (23) up for 5 years, at $14 million. Okposo was drafted 7th overall in 2006. He missed the first 44 games last year with a lorn labrum. In 192 career games he’s scored 44 goals and added 72 assists. He’ll make $1 million next year, $2 million in 2012-13, $3 million in 2013-14, $3.5 million in 2014-15 and $4.5 million in 2015-16.
- Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News: Not only did Sharks center Joe Thornton have a separated shoulder in Game 5, but he’s been dealing with a pinky injury since the regular season, which ended up bothering his wrist.
“My pinky went in a different direction than it was supposed to,” Thornton said. “The top just got cut off and they had to put it back together. It happened with a couple games left in the regular season. That surgery probably will happen tomorrow.”
His shoulder injury won’t require surgery. The full list of other injured Sharks isn’t known yet. Jason Demers missed the Vancouver series. Ryane Clowe’s upper-body injury “needs to be repaired.”
“It was a lot of guys, and I think that’s a good sign,” McLellan said. “We were bumped, banged and bruised a lot more this year than last season. No one ever wants to be hurt, but that’s a good sign.”
UFA defenseman Ian White said he’d like to return next year.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: A challenge for Sharks GM Doug Wilson is to improve the blueline, bringing in a top-four defenseman. Dany Heatley struggled again in the playoffs (3 goals in 18 games) and has 3 years at a $7.5 million cap hit. RFA Devin Setoguchi has been inconsistent and the Sharks could explore a trade at the draft. Joe Pavelski’s production this playoffs dropped compared to last year, 17 points in 15 games to 10 points in 18 games.
- Craig Custance of the SportingNews: Predators coach Barry Trotz on teams thinking of about giving Shea Weber an offer sheet,
“We’ll just match it,” Trotz told Sporting News. “I can tell you, whatever they offer, it’ll just get matched.”
and added,
“I know he’s going to get done. I can tell you that,” Trotz said. “They’ve had some good discussions.”
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: Lavoie reports True North will pay a total of $170 million to move the Atlanta Thrashers to Winnipeg, $130 to buy the team and $40 for relocation fees.
Who will start for Lightning? Thornton says he’ll play in Game 5 … Isles should ask for Versteeg, Hartnell or Carle for Nabokov … Jagr to sign in KHL
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 23rd, 2011
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: Lightning coach Guy Boucher won’t reveal who his starting goalie will be, but it sounds like it would be Dwayne Roloson.
“I don’t feel like we’ve got a situation. … We’ve got a goaltender that has taken us here that knows how to win and knows how to bounce back.”
So is Roloson playing?
“He’s getting prepared for (today),” Boucher said.
- Mark Emmons of hte San Jose Mercury News: Sharks Joe Thornton didn’t return after taking a shoulder-to-shoulder hit by Raffi Torres in the 3rd period. Thornton didn’t talk to the media afterwards, but did send a text message that he’ll be in the lineup for Game 5,
“100 percent,” Thornton texted in response to the question of whether or not he expected to play. “It’s playoffs, got to play through everything.”
- David Climer of the Tennessean: The Predators need to lock up their face of the franchise, Shea Weber, and they should do it soon. If Weber is able to hit the open next season as a UFA, the Preds would have little chance of retaining him, as he could hit the $8 million mark.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Islanders can’t just trade Evgeni Nabokov for a draft pick or prospect. “If the Flyers, who would like to dump some salary, aren’t willing to give up Kris Versteeg, Scott Hartnell or defenceman Matt Carle, all of whom make at least $3 million US a season, Snow should say no thanks.” If Nikolai Zherdevi isn’t playing in the KHL next year, Matheson would be shocked. Joni Pitkanen would look good in a Red Wings jersey, but they may not have the cap space to sign him. Do the Blue Jackets have the money to give Pitkanen? If the Oilers go after any unrestricted free agents, they should go after Brooks Laich. It wouldn’t be a surprised if former Blue Jackets assistant Bob Boughner becomes a Red Wings assistant.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Sometime this week Jaromir Jagr will sign a deal with SKA of the KHL.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Dominik Hasek hasn’t received any contract offer yet for next season, and if he doesn’t, he’ll officially retire.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has said that it could be difficult for them to re-sign Jussi Jokinen. Jokinen could get as much as $3 million per season on the open market.
Burke says hasn’t spoken SJ about Thornton … Malkin out tonight … Habs have $3.5 million in cap space … Edler out 3 months after surgery
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 1st, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Brian Burke said “I have never spoken to Doug Wilson on that. Total fabrication.” Burke was responding to internet rumors of a possible deal with the Sharks involving Joe Thornton.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Jason Arnott has already stated he’d waive his no-trade clause, and is unsure where he’ll finish the season. “I think I have to just go out and play,” he said. “The trade deadline is coming up. I’m sure it will come quicker than normal. I just have to wait and see.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Coach Dan Bylsma said that Evgeni Malkin won’t play tonight but he’s traveling with the team.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Alex Edler underwent micro discectomy surgery on Monday, hopes to be back by the end of the regular season, though GM Mike Gillis said that is unlikely, as it could be 3 months to recover. Sami Salo still doesn’t know when he’ll be able to return, he’s been practicing for 5 weeks. Andrew Alberts could be back on Friday, Aaron Rome could be ready next week.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche winger David Jones will be out indefinitely with a shoulder injury that he suffered in the final game before the all-star break. Peter Forsberg’s next practice is scheduled for Wednesday.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Montreal Canadiens have about $3.5 million in cap space after the season ending injuries to Markov and Gorges. Do they go after a top 6 forward like a Richards, Arnott or Weiss? Or after a defenseman like Robyn Regehr?
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Jordin Tootoo has been cleared to practice after spending time in the leagues substance abuse and behavioral health program.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: St. Louis Blues forward Andy MacDonald will return to the lineup Friday.
- Larry Brooks via twitter: Vinny Prospal could be making his season debut on Thursday. Ryan Callahan is in tonight, Brandon Dubinsky is a possibility.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: JS Giguere will start in net for the Maple Leafs tonight vs. the Panthers. George Richards via twitter: Scott Clemmensen will be in net for the Panthers.
Players with the worst plus/minus so far this season
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Opinion on January 28th, 2011
So the all-star break is upon us (yawn), and in honor this 4 day break, I decided to put together a list of the worst plus/minuses so far this season. I’m still amazed (and annoyed, on my fantasy team) that Kovalchuk leads this category. I know he doesn’t always focus on the defensive side of the things but….. Finding 4 San Jose Sharks is also a bit of a surprise. Maple Leafs defenseman/forward Brett Lebda is a funny case as he’s a -19 in 22 games, that’s terrible.
| Player | Team | GP | +/- | G | A | P | ESP | SHP | PPP |
| Ilya Kovalchuk | NJD | 48 | -29 | 14 | 15 | 29 | 16 | 0 | 13 |
| Chris Phillips | OTT | 50 | -23 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| John Tavares | NYI | 46 | -21 | 18 | 18 | 36 | 21 | 0 | 15 |
| Henrik Tallinder | NJD | 49 | -20 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| Brett Lebda | TOR | 22 | -19 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Patrick Marleau | SJS | 50 | -19 | 18 | 18 | 36 | 17 | 1 | 18 |
| David Clarkson | NJD | 49 | -19 | 8 | 4 | 12 | 10 | 0 | 2 |
| Phil Kessel | TOR | 49 | -19 | 19 | 15 | 34 | 21 | 1 | 12 |
| Simon Gagne | TBL | 33 | -19 | 9 | 4 | 13 | 8 | 0 | 5 |
| Andy Greene | NJD | 49 | -19 | 3 | 15 | 18 | 12 | 0 | 6 |
| James Wisniewski | NYI, MTL | 45 | -19 | 5 | 28 | 33 | 12 | 0 | 21 |
| Filip Kuba | OTT | 32 | -18 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| Sergei Gonchar | OTT | 50 | -17 | 6 | 15 | 21 | 5 | 0 | 16 |
| Dennis Wideman | FLA | 49 | -17 | 6 | 19 | 25 | 12 | 0 | 13 |
| Erik Karlsson | OTT | 48 | -17 | 8 | 20 | 28 | 14 | 0 | 14 |
| Nick Foligno | OTT | 50 | -16 | 8 | 11 | 19 | 13 | 0 | 6 |
| Dominic Moore | TBL | 46 | -15 | 8 | 9 | 17 | 14 | 0 | 3 |
| Kris Versteeg | TOR | 46 | -15 | 12 | 19 | 31 | 18 | 0 | 13 |
| Blake Comeau | NYI | 48 | -15 | 13 | 17 | 30 | 21 | 0 | 9 |
| Rich Peverley | ATL | 52 | -14 | 13 | 15 | 28 | 17 | 2 | 9 |
| Adam Mair | NJD | 43 | -14 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Kristian Huselius | CBJ | 27 | -14 | 9 | 6 | 15 | 10 | 0 | 5 |
| Olli Jokinen | CGY | 48 | -14 | 9 | 21 | 30 | 19 | 0 | 11 |
| Devin Setoguchi | SJS | 41 | -14 | 10 | 5 | 15 | 12 | 0 | 3 |
| Joe Thornton | SJS | 48 | -14 | 13 | 31 | 44 | 18 | 1 | 25 |
| Joe Pavelski | SJS | 42 | -14 | 9 | 22 | 31 | 15 | 0 | 16 |
| Tyler Bozak | TOR | 49 | -14 | 8 | 12 | 20 | 13 | 0 | 7 |
| BJ Crombeen | STL | 49 | -14 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 1 | 0 |
Savard to practice, still 6-8 weeks away … Jarome continues to struggle in Calgary … Leighton returns to practice … plus more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 11th, 2010
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Marc Savard will begin practicing in the next 2-3 days with the Bruins. ”He’s doing much, much better,” said Chiarelli. ”He has been symptom-free for a while now, increasing his skating…all in all, he looks good.” He’s still 6-8 weeks away from returning to the lineup.
- Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald: Jarome Iginla continues to struggle, dating back to last season, he’s scored only 3 goals in the last 3o games. “All Sutter hasn’t done? Drastically reducing Iginla’s ice time. Some nights, sure, it’s curbed.” Could Iginla’s days be winding down in Calgary? What could they get for him?
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs are on a 7 game losing streak, 1-7-3 in their last 11 games. “Wednesday’s result may or may not fast track general manager Burke’s itchy cell phone finger. With other struggling NHL clubs getting closer to the unofficial U.S. Thanksgiving player movement window, Burke is also watching a Marlies’ farm team on a five-game points’ run.”
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Michael Leighton returned to practice yesterday. Leighton had back surgery on Oct. 11th and was expected to miss 6-8 weeks. He’s likely 2 weeks away from returning, Nov. 22nd against Montreal could be his first game back. The play of rookie Sergei Bobrovsky (2.19 GAA and .926 SV%) may effect his playing time as well.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Marleau, Thornton and Heatley were back together at practice yesterday. Ryane Clowe, Logan Couture and Joe Pavelski made up another line.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Before last night’s game, Matt Beleskey and Dan Sexton were activated from the IR, and then sent to Syracuse of the AHL. The Ducks will take a longer look at Nick Bonino and Kyle Palmieri. Sheldon Brookbank is day-to-day with a hamstring injury, Luca Sbisa was recalled and took his place.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Kyle Clifford will play in his 10th game tonight, burning a year of his pro contract. Brayden Schenn will likely be returned to Junior, “My gut feel on it is that he might need to go back and play, go to junior and play,” Murray said.
- Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: St. Louis Blues forward TJ Oshie broke his ankle in the 3rd period last night. He’ll be evaluated today to see how long he’ll be out. Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues are now without 2 of their top 3 forwards, and 3 of their top 6 defenseman.
- Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Fleury’s number are bad this year, a 1-6 record, goals-against average (3.54) ranks 37th in a 30-team league. His save percentage (.853) ranks 40th. It might be time to give him a few games as Brent Johnson has given up 11 goals in the last 2 games after last night’s 7-4 loss. Heading into last night’s game Johnson was 6-1-1 and was 4th in GAA and SV%.
Flyers-Giroux close to extension … Unrest in Calgary … Devils and Sharks looking for a Dman … Doan out week-to-week … NHIC Hotstove video
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on November 7th, 2010
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Philadelphia Flyers are close to signing winger Claude Giroux to a contract extension. There is unrest in Calgary, Jarome Iginla trade rumors, coach and management issues, assistant GM Jay Feaster could take over (IMO, the Sutter’s need to go before any player decisions are made). The New Jersey Devils would like to add a defenseman. Ed Jovanovski is a UFA this year, he could be dealt or resigned, but they may not be able to do a deal with the Coyotes without the consent of potential owners Matthew Hulsizer or the True North Group, no formal discussion have taken place. The San Jose Sharks are looking for a defenseman to fill the departed Rob Blake’s minutes, they’ll likely wait till it’s closer to the trade deadline. Islanders goalie Dwayne Roloson could get some interest at the trade deadline. Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli will have plenty to consider at the GM meetings starting on Tuesday, as teams will be looking for deals to help them fix some of their cap issues, a chance Michael Ryder could be dealt.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Joe Thornton appealed his suspension yesterday, no change.
- Howard Berger via twitter: Toronto Maple Leafs forward Colby Armstrong has a walking cast on his right leg, he was originally out with a finger injury.
- Jim Gintonio via twitter: Shane Doan is week-to-week with a lower body injury, happened Friday.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan are off to a good start with the NY Rangers, and both will be looking for nice raises. Dubinsky is in the final year of his 2 year deal making $1.85 million per season. Callahan is making $2.3 million in the last year of his deal.
- Curtis Zupke of the OC Register: Injured Ducks, Dan Sexton, Matt Beleskey and Joffrey Lupul all practiced yesterday. It was Sexton’s first practice after breaking his nose.
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: According to Sabres coach Lindy Ruff, Drew Stafford will “miss some good time” with an upper body injury.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators forward Milan Michalek skated yesterday for the first time in a week after experiencing tendinitis in his knee. Michalek could return on Tuesday against the Thrashers.
- Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove: Ron MacLean, Eric Francis, Mike Milbury & Pierre LeBrun
Coaches on the Hotseat … Regier may need to shakeup Sabres … Semin looking for lucrative long-term deal … Audio and Video of Thornton hit
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on November 5th, 2010
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: The Buffalo Sabres are off to a 3-8-2 start, GM Darcy Regier has said he doesn’t want to fire coach Lindy Ruff, so it might be roster moves are needed to shake the team up. He’s been working the phones, but not liking the offers. He doesn’t want to give players away, such as Tim Connolly. Connolly is taking heat from fans, and writer Gleason for his turnovers/bad decision making.
- Adrian Dater on Versus: Dater runs through 5 coaches who could be on the Hotseat. Ron Wilson: if the Leafs are out of it at some point this year, it could be Wilson’s last year. Lindy Ruff and Randy Carlyle: both of their GM’s have said their jobs are safe for now. Scott Gordon: after a good start, the Islanders have lost 5 in a row. Todd Richards: he’s under some pressure in Minnesota to win now.
- Cory Masisak of CSN Washington: Alexander Semin signed a 1 year, $6 million deal in the off-season, and will be looking to cash in on a lucrative long-term deal. He’s a UFA at seasons end, the Capitals can’t negotiate with him until after January 1st. Can Washington afford him? They have $36 million committed to 13 players next year.
“I really don’t think [Semin] is focused too much on that,” Gandler said. “From the conversations I’ve had with him, he would rather just play hockey. Obviously it is important and it was important last year. This year the reason Alexander signed a one-year deal was not to become an unrestricted free agent necessarily. It was part of the strategy but only because we didn’t think he could get a long-term deal at the money we thought he should get.”
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: The Atlanta Thrashers lost 3-0 last night in front of only 8,461 fans, their lowest total ever, 2nd record low in the last 15 days.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Scouts from Avs, Sens, Leafs, Coyotes, Canucks, Blackhawks, Lightning, Stars were at the Thrashers-Blue Jackets game. I wonder if they were included in last night’s record low attendance in Atlanta.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Johan Franzen was on the ice yesterday for the Red Wings practice, but figures to be ready for tonight.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Minnesota Wild forward Guillaume Latendresse is now week-to-week with a groin injury.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Zach Parise will be put on IR in the next couple days. Brian Rolston will practice on either Sunday or Monday.
- Globe and Mail Audio: Eric Duhatschek, James Mirtle, and Darren Yourk discuss the New Jersey Devils, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames, and if Jarome Iginla could get traded.
- Puck Daddy Radio: Question of the Day….“Who is the best hitter in the NHL”? (05:00) Sidney Crosby drops the gloves (07:45) Cal Clutterbuck, Minnesota Wild RW (10:30) Bobby Holik (24:00) Puck Headlines (37:30)
- Fan 590 Audio: OHL Commissioner David Branch on Prime Time Sports discuss concussions and the overall safety in the game of hockey.
- Fan 590 Audio: Glen Healy on Prime Time Sports discussing the good and the bad in the hockey world.
- Joe Thornton blindsided David Perron last night, NHL will likely review. If the league is serious about blindsided hits, it will give Thornton a suspension, maybe 2 games. I don’t necessarily think it was a ’2 game’ hit, maybe a 1 game suspension, but it could send a message that all players can get suspended, even the stars.
Thornton’s new deal … Ballard to miss 3 games? Commodore has ‘chip fracture’ in hand … Bourque returning soon?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 17th, 2010
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The San Jose Sharks have locked up Joe Thornton for 3 more years for $21 million. It’s a $200,000 pay cut. Being only a 3 year deal, and not a longer term deal was a little surprising. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Thornton’s contract breakdown: 2011-12 $7 million salary plus $1 million signing bonus. 2012-13 $6 million salary plus $1 million signing bonus. 2013-14 $6 million salary.
- Ian Walker via twitter: Vancouver Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard is out with a slight concussion.
- Ian Walker of the Vancouver Sun: Ballard missed last night’s game, and will likely miss the next 2. Winger Michael Samuelsson was dropped from the 1st line down to the 3rd line, Mason Raymond moved up to the 1st line.
- Mark Whicker of the OC Register: Andreas Lilja has his visa issues resolved and will join the team. Luca Sbisa has been sent to Syracuse of the AHL.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Mike Commodore has a ‘chip fracture’ in his left hand, an injury he suffered in the first game this year.
- Roger Millions via twitter: There is a chance that Rene Bourque makes the trip with the Calgary Flames to Nashville. Detroit and Columbus.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning Stars: Fabian Brunnstrom cleared waivers and will likely be assigned to their minor league team. It’s possible that he remains there the rest of the season. He’ll have to pass through re-entry waivers.
Ondrej Pavelec talks with AJC … Thornton-Sharks talking extension … Chara contract breakdown … Injury notes from last night
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 10th, 2010
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: (exclusive interview with Ondrej Pavelec) After Atlanta Thrashers goalie Pavelec awoke in the ambulance after collapsing 2:25 minutes into Friday game with no feeling in his legs and not remembering playing more than 2 minutes. “I would like to tell you [what happened],” Pavelec told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in an exclusive interview Saturday. “The last thing I remember was the lights going on after the [national] anthem. I don’t remember anything until I woke up in the ambulance and saw the doctor looking at me.” He underwent full body MRI exams yesterday and will have more test today, with the hope of being released later in the day. I could do more highlights of the article but I recommend reading the article. The Thrashers have recalled Drew MacIntyre to backup Chris Mason while Ondrej Pavelec is out.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Joe Thornton should have a contract extension done with the San Jose Sharks in the next couple weeks. Brad Richards would become really the only star centerman available next summer, that’s saying he doesn’t get a deal done during the season (nothing will happen on that front until the team is sold). Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara’s contract breakdown; 2011-12: $8.5 million 2012-13: $6 million 2013-14: $8 million 2014-15: $7 million 2015-16: $7 million 2016-17: $5 million 2017-18: $4 million. Shea Weber is a year away from becoming a UFA, a RFA after this season, but the Nashville Predators have already started communicating with him their vision in hopes of locking him up long-term.
There are three clear scenarios here:
1. He signs an extension and life is good in Music City.
2. He only does a one-year deal to bridge himself to his UFA year and he can do this by going to salary arbitration next summer.
3. The Preds get nervous they can’t sign him to a long-term extension and put him on the trade block over the summer.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Daniel Alfredsson will play out the remaining 3 years of his contract and hasn’t ruled out the possibility of moving to the front-office afterwards.
- Deb Kaufman Placey via twitter: John Tavares will be re-evaluated on Monday from a mild concussion he suffered in last night’s game.
- New Jersey Devils via twitter: Anton Volchenkov suffered a broken nose after taking a Nicklas Backstrom shot to the face. Tom Gulitti via twitter: Brian Rolston suffered a lower-body injury last night.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Pekka Rinne is day-to-day with a lower-body injury.
- John Haggerty via twitter: Tim Thomas starting for the Bruins today. Mark Recchi is skating with Seguin. Caron is with Bergeron and Wheeler.
- John Shannon via twitter: IF a sale gets done for the Phoenix Coyotes, the arena deal will completed at the same time.
- Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove: Ron MacLean, Eric Francis, Pierre LeBrun & Mike Milbury
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