Posts Tagged Washington Capitals
Semin denies report … No charges for Kane … Avs-Hejduk talking … Price-Habs have talked … Videos of Doan and Hanzal hit
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on May 16th, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: When Alexander Semin arrived in Sweden, he denied that he’ll be leaving the Capitals for sure. Stephen Whyno via twitter: Whyno spoke with Semin’s agent who didn’t close the door on the Capitals. He questioned the teams direction, and is not considering the KHL.
- Ben Meyer-Abbott of Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks Patrick Kane won’t be getting charged after his partying activities in Madison Wisconsin.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: There has been ongoing talk between the Avalanche and Milan Hejduk. Hejduk struggled in the 2nd half of the season, but would like to return. If they can’t get a deal done, he could consider signing elsewhere.
- Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens Carey Price just finished his 2 year, $5.5 million deal. His agent, Gerry Johannson has had a couple “cordial chats” with new GM Marc Bergevin.
“I’m pretty confident we’ll get something done,” the three-time all-star said. “I’m really not the type of guy who’s going to push everything to get (a contract) done faster. We’re trying to build a team here and we want to build it the right way. Rushing decisions isn’t the right way to do it.”
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: There have been no talks with pending UFA Matt Carkner and the Senators. It doesn’t mean there won’t be any though.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: On the Shane Doan hit, Lewis turns just before the hit, nasty result but not a suspension in his opinion. Martin Hanzal tracks Dustin Brown, he’ll get a suspension.
Torres hearing on Thursday … Semin not back with Caps? Vokoun done with Caps … Bigger list for Nash … KHL after Grigorenko
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 15th, 2012
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Coyotes Raffi Torres suspension appeal will be heard Thursday morning.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: According to Alexander Semin’s agent Mark Gandler, he has no intentions of re-signing with the Capitals and will become a UFA on July 1st.
“It was good while it lasted. With the lack of playoff success, with the direction they are going. They decided to change directions. That’s within their rights. Alex doesn’t fit into that system obviously,” Gandler told ESPN the Magazine. “It just doesn’t make any sense to him. He plays, he did the best he could under the circumstances and he earned his right to be a free agent.”
Semin would prefer to remain in the NHL rather than heading to the KHL. He would also like to get an expanded role, which includes penalty killing. He averaged 16:47 minutes per game this year, his lowest since his rookie year.
“I think the issue is with the organization, not necessarily with the coach,” Gandler said. “They told us Alex is not going to play short-handed, he’s not going to play in the last minute. He’s going to get the same icetime as everybody else … Alex is not ready to be a role player. He wants to be a full-time player. It’s important to him.”
Semin made $6.7 million last season.
“I don’t know what the market (for him) is going to be,” Gandler said. “I know there aren’t many players like Alex around.”
- Greg Brady via twitter: A scout told Brady at the trade deadline that GM George McPhee was pleading with other teams to trade for Alexander Semin.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Tomas Vokoun doesn’t have a deal in place with Lokomotiv of the KHL. He prefers to stay in the NHL. Chuck Gormley via twiiter: Vokoun said he never planned on playing with the Capitals for more than a year.
- The Fourth Period: A source told TFP that Rick Nash and his agent recently reviewed his contract with the Blue Jackets and could have an expanded list of teams he’d accept a trade too. The Sharks, Maple Leafs, Rangers, Canucks, Kings and Bruins had interest in Nash at some point this season.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Russian sources say that CSKA could make a big play for Mikhail Grigorenko. If true, it could hurt his draft stock.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Leo Komarov will join the Maple Leafs this summer. Gus Katsaros via twitter: At this point, Komarov would be a Marlies player.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings winger Simon Gagne has been cleared for contact but is long ways from playing. He remains in LA. He’s a long shot for returning this yeare.
Coaches Corner: Hunter, Wilson, Richards, Renney, McLellan, Leafs, Canadiens and Flames … Conditions on Dudley leaving Leafs for Habs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 15th, 2012
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Dale Hunter made the tough decision of leaving the Capitals to go back to the London Knight after talking with his family. Tarik El-Bashir via twitter: “It was a tough decision. But it was the right one for me and my family.” Bob McKenzie via twitter: Capitals GM George McPhee is in no hurry to hire a new head coach, he could wait until July or August to find Hunter’s replacement. McKenzie wouldn’t hold his breath waiting for Ron Wilson to be named coach.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets coach Todd Richards gets a 2 year deal, no longer the interim coach. Bob McKenzie via twitter: McKenzie thinks the Richards extension is a vote of confidence from ownership for GM Scott Howson.
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: Leafs assistants Scott Gordon and Greg Cronin are expected back. The Canadiens are in the process of touching base with some head coaching candidates, such as: Michel Therrien, Guy Carbonneau, Marc Crawford, and Bob Hartley. The Flames are planning on narrowing their 10-12 head coaching list down to 5 or 6 for interviews. Bob Harley and Troy Ward are prominent. Nothing to report on Tom Renney’s expiring contract. GM Steve Tambellini’s contract is expired too, but many believe he has an extension in place,
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: McKenzie thinks that Todd McLellan will be back coaching the Sharks next season, but not surprised if they brought in an experienced or veteran assistant coach.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: Flames AHL head coach Troy Ward is the leading candidate for the head coaching position according to Bodog’s prop (7/4 odds). Bob Hartley (5/2) is a close friend GM Jay Feaster is also a candidate. Craig MacTavish is listed at 6/1.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Rick Dudley could leave the Maple Leafs for the Canadiens by the end of the month. It would be conditional on him not helping the Canadiens with the draft. Pending negotiations with the Canadiens, Dudley has the Leafs blessing to move on as long as he isn’t involved with the draft.
Parise opens up a bit … 4 teams that make sense for a Staal deal … Carle deal has to wait … Nash’s name back in rumors … CF schedule
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on May 13th, 2012
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Pending Devils UFA Zach Parise opens up a bit:
“I’ m enjoying this, we’re playing well. It’s not even crossing my mind,” Parise said, at first.
“It means a lot,” Parise told The Post. “It means we have a lot of good, young players who are going to be here a long time.”
- Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: If Jordan Staal hits the open market after next season, he could get around $7 million. The Penguins already have $40 million committed to 10 players, not including Sidney Crosby who may get $10 million. Reports are that the Hurricanes and Oilers could be interested. Yohe offers up the most logical trade partners for the Penguins. 1. Carolina Hurricanes – have the cap room and assets. They could offer center Brandon Sutter. They have the 8th overall pick this year and some other strong prospects. 2. Toronto Maple Leafs – Brian Burke is a big Staal fan, and Ray Shero and Burke are friends. The Leafs have Nazem Kadri and stay-at-home defenseman Luke Schenn, a type of Dman the Penguins need. 3. Edmonton Oilers – the Oilers could use and accomplished center. The Oilers have the 1st overall pick. 4. Minnesota Wild – the Wild are a “no-name squad looking for an identity” and could use a name like Jordan Staal. Cal Clutterbuck and Devin Setoguchi may be 2 players that would interest the Pens. The Wild also have the 7th pick in the draft.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Due to the salary-cap tagging rule, the Flyers won’t be able to sign Matt Carle before July 1st. Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said he wants to re-sign Carle. Carle earned $3.47 million this past year, and could get in the $5 million range on his next deal.
“I don’t see any reason why we can’t work out a deal,” Holmgren said. “His demands, when I spoke with him and his agent, nothing was ever out of line. Could we get him under market value? I would say that we probably could. I don’t see any issues there.”
- Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: There are different reports on what was/wasn’t offered by the Rangers at the trade deadline for Blue Jackets Rick Nash. The Rangers weren’t willing to move Chris Kreider. The Jackets were asking for Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan McDonagh or Michael Del Zotto, Derek Stepan or Carl Hagelin, Dreider and a 1st round pick. Another report was they wanted Dubinsky, another forward like Stepan, a prospect (not Kreider) and a 1st round pick, maybe 2. This offseason, teams will have move flexibility with their roster and salary cap. The Sharks and Bruins should be interested, possibly the Rangers again.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Garrioch thinks the next stop for Alexander Semin is the KHL. He had 3 goals and 1 assist in 14 playoff games. The Blue Jackets have quietly continued to try and trade Rick Nash, but it’s hard to fin serious interest now. Sharks GM Doug Wilson is rumored to be interested in revisiting talks. Wilson may have told the Jackets that they could sweeten the pot in June. Expect the Maple Leafs to make a pitch for the 1st overal pick. Expect the Flyers to make a pitch for Ryan Suter’s rights if he doesn’t re-sign with the Predators. The Wings and Wild will be interested as well.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: NHL release of Conference Finals Schedule:
2012 EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL SCHEDULE
Date Time (ET) #1 NY Rangers vs. #6 New Jersey Networks
Game 1: Monday, May 14 8 p.m. New Jersey at NY Rangers NBCSN, CBC, RDS
Game 2: Wednesday, May 16 8 p.m. New Jersey at NY Rangers NBCSN, CBC, RDS
Game 3: Saturday, May 19 1 p.m. NY Rangers at New Jersey NBC, CBC, RDS
Game 4: Monday, May 21 8 p.m. NY Rangers at New Jersey NBCSN, CBC, RDS
*Game 5: Wednesday, May 23 8 p.m. New Jersey at NY Rangers NBCSN, CBC, RDS
*Game 6: Friday, May 25 8 p.m. NY Rangers at New Jersey NBCSN, CBC, RDS
*Game 7: Sunday, May 27 8 p.m. New Jersey at NY Rangers NBCSN, CBC, RDS2012 WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL SCHEDULE
Date Time (ET) #3 Phoenix vs. #8 Los Angeles Networks
Game 1: Sunday, May 13 8 p.m. Los Angeles at Phoenix NBCSN, TSN, RDS
Game 2: Tuesday, May 15 9 p.m. Los Angeles at Phoenix NBCSN, TSN, RDS
Game 3: Thursday, May 17 9 p.m. Phoenix at Los Angeles NBCSN, TSN, RDS
Game 4: Sunday, May 20 3 p.m. Phoenix at Los Angeles NBC, CBC, RDS
*Game 5: Tuesday, May 22 9 p.m. Los Angeles at Phoenix NBCSN, CBC, RDS
*Game 6: Thursday, May 24 9 p.m. Phoenix at Los Angeles NBCSN, CBC, RDS
*Game 7: Saturday, May 26 8 p.m. Los Angeles at Phoenix TBD, CBC, RDS* If necessary
Radulov-Kostitsyn broke curfew by an hour … Preds notes … Semin done with Caps, NHL? Kreider moves up to 2nd line
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 12th, 2012
- Michael Farber of SI.com (via Dirk Hoag of On the Forecheck): Predators Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn broke curfew by 1 hour, which earned them their 1 game suspension. They were poolside at the W, an alcohol free soiree according to a source.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Ryan Suter’s free agent decision will affect Shea Weber’s situation. Throw in Radulov’s free agency and curfew violations, it’s going to be busy offseason for the Predators. They have 15 total free agents. 3 things that we know for sure: “1. The Suter, Weber, Radulov story lines will dominate the offseason for Nashville. 2. If Suter does decide to leave, it won’t be a ll doom and gloom for Nashville. 3. The Predators must make a decision on Sergei Kostitsyn.”
- Darren Dreger of TSN: Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin has called Brian Burke several times to try and persuade him to allow Rick Dudley to join the Habs before the Draft, but it’s not a top priority for Burke. There is a window that allows Dudley to leave, and the Leafs control the situation until it opens. At the next GM meetings, some GMs will bring up compensation for head coaches, GMs, and assistant GMs that are hired by other teams. Dreger says that Ryan Suter has earned the right to test the free agent market, and it won’t be an easy decision for him to sign elsewhere. It is possible that they could keep both Suter and Shea Weber, but it would have a financial strain on the team, depending on the new CBA.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Alexander Semin could be playing in his last game for the Capitals, and maybe his last NHL game. He’ll be a UFA and the Capitals “won’t re-sign him.”
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Sports.ru is reporting that Kirill Kabanov will play of Salavat of the KHL. BD Gallof via twitter: KHL is better money than the AHL. Isles fan shouldn’t worry if Kabanov says there for a year, if it’s 2 years, then worry.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Apparently the Flyers have so many players that may require surgery, they won’t be able to sort it out until next week.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils coach Peter DeBoer expects Anton Volchenkov and Marek Zidlicky to be ready for Game 1 of the conference finals.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Rangers forward Chris Kreider was practicing with the 2nd line, Ryan Callahan and Derek Stepan, yesterday.
Afternoon notes: Devils, Flyers, Blues, Predators and Stars
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on May 8th, 2012
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Ponikarovsky-Zajac-Kovalchuk; Parise-Elias-Clarkson; Sykora-Henrique-Zubrus; Carter-Gionta-Bernier.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Andres Lilja and Pavel Kubina skating after practice. Andrej Meszaros likely returning. Laviolette said he’s looked good for 7 to 10 days.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: The Blues have made it clear that they’d like to have Vladimir Tarasenko in uniform next season, and he’s nearing his decision if he’ll head to North America or remain in Russia. He’s expected to make his decision after the IIHF World Championships. Tarasenko has indicated to some that he intends to sign with the Blues. Defenseman Alex Pietrangelo had an MCL injury after taking the hit from Dwight King in Game 2. Forward T.J. Oshie suffered a knee injury, possibly in Game 3.
- David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Predators GM David Poile should be able to recoup a 1st round pick this year by trading backup goalie Anders Lindback. Andrei Kostitsyn likely won’t be back. Alexander Radulov will be a RFA and will want a big raise if they bring him back (and if he wants to stay in the NHL). If coach Barry Trotz thinks he can straighten Radulov out, he may be back (if they can sign him).
- Brandon Worley via twitter: Did you know that Doug Armstrong traded #13 pick in 2002
for #26, #42 and #180. The #13 pick was Alex Semin and none of 3 picks for Stars played in NHL. (#26 – Martin Vagner, #42 – Marius Holtet, and #180 – Kirill Sidorenko). 2002 draft results
Coaches up in the air … Hossa hopes to be ready for next year … Improving FAs … Thinking Price at $5.5 million
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 4th, 2012
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks and Sharks future coaching situations are still up in the air. Alain Vigneault and Todd McLellan could be looking for new jobs this offseason. McLellan could interest the Canucks and Flames. Vigneault would get interest from the Canadiens. If the Canucks let Vigneault go, they could also look at Craig MacTavish and Scott Arniel. They could also wait it out and see what happens with the disgruntled Joel Quenneville in Chicago. Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Vigneault left town before having a his ‘postseason court’ with the media and isn’t available to talk about his future. He has 1 year remaining on his contract.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Blackhawks Marian Hossa said that this is the “biggest concussion” he’s ever had. He’s feeling better and progressing. He also added that there is quite awhile until training camp and he’s confident that he’ll be ready to play by then.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Potential free agents who have been increase value during the playoffs: Dustin Penner (LA), Francis Bouillon (NASH), Alexander Semin (WAS), Bryce Salvador (NJ), Matt Carle (PHI) and Mike Knuble (WAS).
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Many people don’t think that Dale Hunter will be back in Washington. GM George McPhee said he would like him to stay. Once the Kings made the playoffs, coach Darryl Sutter told his team the worst was over and it’s time to relax and have fun. The average that some league executives think Carey Price will get on a new deal is $5.5 million per season. Some noted that Price has leverage which could drive up the price. Some GMs aren’t certain the Bruins will keep Tim Thomas, and there would be a market for him. The annual “Trade Marleau” watch is on.
Afternoon notes on: Dubinsky, Caps, Predators, Hurricanes, Canadiens, Sharks … Flames sign Cervanka
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 2nd, 2012
- Katie Strang via twitter: Rangers Brandon Dubinsky travelled with the Rangers to DC, no indication if he’s close to returning.
- Brian McNally via twitter: Capitals lines this morning: Ovechkin-Backstrom-Johansson. Chimera-Laich-Semin. Hendricks-Beagle-Brouwer. Knuble-Aucoin-Ward.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: If the Predators win Game 3, Barry Trotz said he’d go with the same lineup for Game 4. (No Kostitsyn and Radulov)
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford can’t name players who are possible trade targets, but did mention that Eric Staal has played wing before. He has said that finding a scoring winger for Staal was their top offseason priority. He said today that focus could be a winger or center. Rutherford said that defenseman Bryan Allen and Jaroslav Spacek could be headed for free agency. The Canes are high on Bobby Sanguinetti. They hope to have Jamie McBain re-signed soon.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: McKenzie points out that the Canadiens buying out Scott Gomez “is the dumbest thing any organization could possibly do in a salary cap word.” If they were to send him to the AHL, it frees up $7.3 million in cap space the next 2 years, salary would be $10 million in salary. The Canadiens could save $3.3 million in cash by buying Gomez out, but would have cap hits of “$3.5M, $4.5M, $1.66M and $1.66M for each of 4 yrs.” However, in the new CBA, it’s not known about amnesty buyouts and burying contracts in the minors. Spector’s Hockey via twitter: The Canadiens can’t buy Gomez out until the buyout period which runs from June 15th to 30th, merely speculation at this time. Louis Jean via twitter: According to @TVASports Dave Morrissette, the decision to buy Gomez out has already been made.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: As of this morning, the Canadiens hadn’t asked the Maple Leafs permission to speak wit Rick Dudley. Dudley and Martin Lapointe are expected to be among GMs Bergevin’s hires.
- David Pollak via twitter: Sharks ownership put out a statement that this seasons results are not acceptable, but are confident that GM Doug Wilson will make the changes needed going forward.
- Vicki Hall via twitter: The Flames have signed KHL center Roman Cervanka to a 1 year, $3.7 million deal. Hall can’t see the Flames bringing Olli Jokinen back after giving Cervanka that much money.
Afternoon notes on Luongo, Schneider, Hodgson, Filppula, Kane, Jagr, Petrov, Vezina finalists, Konopka and Boyle
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 25th, 2012
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Despite having 10 years left on his deal, it doesn’t mean the Canucks won’t be able to trade Roberto Luongo. Jeff Carter had 11 years and was dealt. The biggest factors holding a deal back may be what the Canucks want for him or what other goalies are available. There could be between 5 and 9 teams that are interested. His top 2 landing spots would be Tampa Bay and Florida. He may not want to play in the spotlight of Toronto. Cory Schneider will not be blocked from an offer sheet from July 1st to July 5th because he made under $1.5 million. The Canucks would offer him arbitration but due to his salary, if Schneider and another team worked out a deal before July 5th, the Canucks would have the choice to match. The Canucks targeted 6 players they would have traded Cody Hodgson for at the deadline before they did the deal with the Sabres for Zack Kassian (Kassian obviously being one). Brandon Sutter of the Hurricanes was one, and John Carlson of the Capitals was another. The 4th was Erik Gudbrason of the Panthers and Kyle Clifford of the Kings was the 5th according to sources. The 6th is unknown. The Canadiens may be interested in Sharks GM Doug Wilson. Friedman wonders if the Red Wings will make Valtteri Filppula available this offseason.
- Steve Rosenbloom of the Chicago Tribune: Rosenbloom thinks the Blackhawks should at least see what they could get for Patrick Kane. He notes that Kane’s goal production doesn’t match the hype or salary.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Carchidi thinks there is an 80% chance that Jaromir Jagr returns to the Flyers next year.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman: “We’re not going to bring everybody back.”
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Islanders prospect Kirill Petrov: “It’s my dream to play in the NHL. My contract expires on April 30. Then I will decide what to do.”
- Jim Diamond via twitter: Pekka Rinne, Henrik Lundqvist and Jonathan Quick are the Vezina finalists.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Matt Carkner and Zenon Konopka were not at the Senators practice today.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Brian Boyle didn’t practice with the Rangers today.
Afternoon notes on: Torres, Grossman, Martin, Neuvirth, Halak, Bryzgalov, Garrison, Silfverberg … Bruins and Rangers lines
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on April 20th, 2012
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Raffi Torres hearing was at 12 CST in New York.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman’s upper-body injury is believed to be a concussion. Sam Carchidi via twitter: Sounding like he’s out at least for the rest of the series. Dan Rosen via twitter: Look for Erik Gustafsson to play in place of Grossman.
- Joe Depto via twitter: Penguins coach Dan Bylsma confirms that defenseman Paul Martin is out tonight.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: The Capitals have assigned Dany Sabourin to the AHL, which likely means Michal Neuvirth will be the backup for Game 5.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland doesn’t think Jaroslav Halak will be able to backup Brian Elliott tomorrow night.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Rangers lines: Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust (Hagelin extra) Kreider-Mitchell-Rupp (Scott extra)
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins lines: Lucic-Krejci-Rolston. Paille-Bergeron-Peverley. Caron/Pouliot-Kelly-Seguin. Marchand-Campbell-Thornton.
- Mike Morreale of NHL.com: Panthers defensman Jason Garrison was a late scratch last night due to 2 lower-body injuries, and is listed as day-to-day.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Ilya Bryzgalov will start in net for the Flyers.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Senators prospect Jakob Silfverberg won’t be leaving for North America until Sunday.
Afternoon notes: Torres, Martin, Alfredsson, Vokoun, McDonald, Chaput … Markham arena … Pens, Sens and Caps lines
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Suspensions on April 18th, 2012
- Josh Rimer via twitter: Coyotes Raffi Torres will have an in-person hearing on Friday. Suspended indefinitely.
- Pens Inside Scoop via twitter: Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said that Paul Martin is out for Game 4.
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Penguins lines: Sullivan-Crosby-Dupuis; Kunitz-Malkin-Kennedy; Cooke-Staal-Tangradi; Jeffrey-Vitale-Park. Neal, Asham and Adams out.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Senators coach Paul MacLean said there is no update on Daniel Alfredsson.
- Erin Nicks of NHL.com: Senators lines: Milan Michalek – Jason Spezza – Colin Greening, Nick Foligno – Kyle Turris – Bobby Butler, Erik Condra – Zack Smith – Chris Neil, Zenon Konopka – Jim O’Brien – Jesse Winchester. Defensive Pairings: Filip Kuba – Erik Karlsson, Jared Cowen – Sergei Gonchar, Chris Phillips – Matt Carkner.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun said he had a pretty significant groin tear.
- Brian McNallty via twitter: Capitals lines: Ovechkin-Laich-Johansson. Chimera-Perreault-Semin.Hendricks-Beagle-Brouwer. Knuble-Aucoin-Ward.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Markham will vote on the 19,000 seat arena proposal next week. A special general committee council on Friday at 1:30 pm and a special meeting next Thursday at 7 pm.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues forward Andy McDonald considered retiring last October due to his concussion.
“Early on, I was kind of down about my chances of getting back,” McDonald said Tuesday. “Having that (first concussion) and then going out so quickly this year after a hit that maybe wasn’t that severe – that was a red flag. So early on, I really didn’t know what was going to happen.”
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets forward Tomas Kubalik had should surgery, should be ready for training camp.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Blue Jackets are in talks with prospect Michael Chaput, who was acquired at the trade deadline from the Flyers.
Shanahan suspension videos for Arron Asham, James Neal and Nicklas Backstrom
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on April 18th, 2012
Penguins Arron Asham was suspended for 4 games for his cross-check on Flyers Brayden Schenn.
Penguins James Neal was suspended for 1 game for charging Flyers Claude Giroux.
Capitals Nicklas Backstrom was suspended for 1 game for cross-checking Bruins Rich Peverley.
Afternoon notes on Alfredsson, Hanzal, Smith, Wolski, Gill, Backstrom, Asham, Moore, Leighton and Shaw’s 3 game suspension video
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on April 17th, 2012
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators Daniel Alfredsson had a setback yesterday afternoon. He’ll be evaluated tomorrow.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Coyotes Martin Hanzal and Mike Smith will be game time decisions. Lauri Korpikoski will be out.
- Terry Koshan via twitter: Panthers Wojtek Wolski will be a healthy scratch tonight.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: Predators coach Barry Trotz said that Hal Gill will not play tonight.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Zajac-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Zubrus; Ponikarovsky-Henrique-Clarkson; Carter-Gionta-Bernier.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Capitals Nicklas Backstrom had his disciplinary hearing at 3:30 today.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Penguins Arron Asham waived his right to an in-person hearing and will be done by phone at 5:00. He can be suspended for 6 games or more.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Sharks Mike Moore and Flyers Michael Leighton have cleared re-entry waivers.
- Blackhawks Andrew Shaw was suspended for 3 games for his hit on Coyotes goalie Mike Smith.
Neal gets 2 hearings, Asham 1 … Shanahan changed mind on Weber … Alfie concussed but might play … Gil skates … Still no Neurvirth/Vokoun
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Suspensions on April 16th, 2012
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Penguins James Neal will have 2 separate disciplinary hearings tomorrow. Aaron Asham will have an in-person hearing at 11 am. Dan Rosen via twitter: Neal’s hearings are for his hit on Sean Couturier and his charging on Claude Giroux.
- Joe Yerdon via twitter: Brendan Shanahan said he was close to giving Shea Weber a 1 one game suspension, but Red Wings GM Ken Holland told him that Henrik Zetterberg was okay, and it changed his mind.
- Nick Cotsonika via twitter: If the Rangers are going to appeal Carl Hagelin’s suspension, they’ll have to do it before tonight. Shanahan won’t reduce Hagelin’s suspension after the fact based on whether Daniel Alfredsson will be able to play or not.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Senators coach Paul MacLean confirms that Daniel Alfredsson passed his baseline test, and if he’s ready, he’ll play. Brent Wallace via twitter: Alfredsson confirms that he suffered a concussion on the hit.
- Bob Duff via twitter: A NHL executive: “Colin Campbell always did what he thought was right and didn’t worry about what people thought. Shanahan just wants to be liked.”
- Arthur Staple via twitter: The Islanders have let assistant coaches Dan Chynoweth and Scott Allen go.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: Predators defenseman Hal Gill took part in his first full practice this series.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals lines: Ovechkin-Laich-Brouwer, Johansson-Backstrom-Semin, Chimera-Beagle-Perreault, Aucoin-Hendricks-Ward.
- Brian McNally via twitter: Michal Neuvirth and Tomas Vokoun were not at practice this morning. Dany Sabourin will be the backup.
2011-12 NHL Attendence for each team: Final numbers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on April 9th, 2012
Here are the final home attendance numbers for the 2011-12 season. The Winter Classic attendance is included in Philadlephia’s numbers, hence the high “% Capacity” number.
15 teams had 100% capacity or more. 20 teams had over 96% capacity. The Phoenix Coyotes had only a 72.5% capacity this season, which is an increase for them compared to the last 2 seasons.
| RK | TEAM |
2011-12
AVG |
%
Capacity |
2010-11
AVG |
2009-10
AVG |
2008-09
AVG |
| 1 | Chicago |
21,533
|
105
|
21,423
|
21,356
|
22,247
|
| 2 | Montreal |
21,273
|
100
|
21,273
|
21,273
|
21,273
|
| 3 | Philadelphia |
20,433
|
107.4
|
21,273
|
19,535
|
19,545
|
| 4 | Detroit |
20,114
|
100.7
|
19,680
|
19,546
|
19,865
|
| 5 | Toronto |
19,506
|
103.7
|
19,354
|
19,289
|
19,312
|
| 6 | Ottawa |
19,356
|
101.1
|
19,289
|
19,260
|
18,949
|
| 7 | Calgary |
19,289
|
100
|
18,378
|
18,269
|
19,289
|
| 8 | Vancouver |
18,884
|
102.5
|
18,860
|
18,810
|
18,630
|
| 9 | St. Louis |
18,809
|
98.2
|
19,150
|
18,883
|
18,554
|
| 10 | Pittsburgh |
18,566
|
102.7
|
18,240
|
17,078
|
16,975
|
| 11 | Buffalo |
18,550
|
99.9
|
18,452
|
18,529
|
18,531
|
| 12 | Washington |
18,506
|
101.3
|
18,397
|
18,277
|
18,097
|
| 13 | Tampa Bay |
18,468
|
96.2
|
17,268
|
15,497
|
16,497
|
| 14 | NY Rangers |
18,191
|
100
|
18,108
|
18,076
|
18,949
|
| 15 | Los Angeles |
17,920
|
100
|
18,083
|
17,313
|
16,488
|
| 16 | Minnesota |
17,772
|
98.4
|
17,565
|
17,388
|
17,039
|
| 17 | Boston |
17,564
|
100
|
17,562
|
17,558
|
17,039
|
| 18 | San Jose |
17,562
|
100
|
18,012
|
18,415
|
17,488
|
| 19 | Edmonton |
16,839
|
100
|
16,839
|
16,839
|
16,839
|
| 20 | Nashville |
16,690
|
97.5
|
16,142
|
14,979
|
15,010
|
| 21 | Florida |
16,628
|
86.6
|
15,685
|
15,146
|
15,621
|
| 22 | Carolina |
16,042
|
85.9
|
14,820
|
13,947
|
16,572
|
| 23 | Colorado |
15,498
|
86.1
|
14,775
|
15,535
|
15,429
|
| 24 | New Jersey |
15,396
|
87.4
|
16,415
|
15,240
|
15,790
|
| 25 | Winnipeg |
15,004
|
100
|
13,469
|
13,607
|
14,626
|
| 26 | Anaheim |
14,760
|
86.4
|
14,738
|
15,168
|
16,990
|
| 27 | Columbus |
14,660
|
80.8
|
13,658
|
15,416
|
15,543
|
| 28 | Dallas |
14,226
|
76.8
|
11,059
|
12,735
|
17,680
|
| 29 | NY Islanders |
13,191
|
81.3
|
15,073
|
17,215
|
13,733
|
| 30 | Phoenix |
12,420
|
72.5
|
12,188
|
11,989
|
14,875
|
| Prior years attendance for Winnipeg are AtlantaÕs attendance numbers. | ||||||
Afternoon notes on: Boychuk, Grossman, Penguins, Maple Leafs, Senators and bunch of starting goaltenders
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 5th, 2012
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk is day-to-day with a mild knee sprain.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman is wearing 2 knee braces and remains optimistic for the playoffs.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Penguins Sullivan, Neal and Nikanen will not be in the lineup for the Penguins. Will DePaoli via twitter: Eric Tangradi is skating on a line with Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Scratches or out tonight for the Capitals: Halpern, Ward, Erskine, Schultz, Vokoun. Brian McNally via twitter: Michal Neuvrith is expected to start tonight.
- Paul Hendrick via twitter: The Maple Leafs have sent Joe Colborne back the Marlies. David Steckel will be back in the lineup. Mikhail Grabovski won’t play. Ben Scrivens will be starting in net. Jonas Siegel via twitter: Grabovski is not sure if he’ll be able to return on Saturday. He was cut around his knee by Brayden McNabb’s skate and required 20-30 stitches.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators Filip Kuba and Erik Karlsson will play tonight. Matt Gilroy is out. Ben Bishop will start in net.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Pekka Rinne has been battling an illness this week. He was the first off the ice and Barry Trotz said he’s “probably” the starter tonight.
- Bob Duff via twitter: Jimmy Howard will start in net for the Red Wings against the Devils.
- Curtis Zupke via twitter: Jonathan Quick was the first off the ice for the Kings and the likely starter.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Josh Harding will start in net for the Wild.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers against the Capitals.
- Luke DeCock via twitter: Cam Ward was the first off the ice and will likely start in net for the Hurricanes.
- Steve Zipay via twitter: Martin Biron will start in net for the Rangers against the Penguins.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Steve Mason will start in net for the Blue Jackets.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Brian Elliott will start in net for the Blues on Friday. Jaroslav Halak will start on Saturday.
Afternoon notes: Price, Myers, Toews, Gunnarson, Tallinder, Parenteau, Steckel, Lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 4th, 2012
- Montreal Canadiens via twitter: Canadiens Carey Price has been diagnosed with a mild concussion.
- Buffalo Sabres via twitter: Sabres coach Lindy Ruff said that Tyler Myers won’t be available for the final 2 games.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks Jonathan Toews will not play tomorrow. David Bolland is out tomorrow with an upper-body injury. He’s day-to-day.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Maple Leafs defenseman Carl Gunnarson has a separated shoulder and is done for the year.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello said it’s “doubtful” that Henrik Tallinder will be able to play in the playoffs, but Tallinder is still hopeful. Jacob Josefson won’t need surgery on his wrist.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: P.A. Parenteau’s agent said that have “made no proposals” to the Islanders.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Canadiens have asked the Maple Leafs for permission to talk to Claude Loiselle, who are expected to grant permission.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: Lightning winger Brandon Segal has cleared waivers.
- David Alter via twitter: Leafs forward David Steckel is practicing for the first time since his knee injury.
- David Alter via twitter: Maple Leafs lines: Frattin-Bozak-Kessel, MacArthur-Lombardi-Crabb, Connolly-Steckel-Brown, Rosehill-Ashton-Armstrong-Colborne.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals lines: Ovechkin-Backstrom-Johansson, Chimera-Perreault-Semin, Hendricks-Beagle-Laich, Knuble-Aucoin-Ward-Eakin-Halpern.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Michal Neuvirth will start for the Capitals against the Panthers.
- Tracey Myers via twitter: Corey Crawford will start in net for the Blackhawks tomorrow.
- Brent Wallace via twitter: Ben Bishop is expected to start tomorrow.
Morning notes: Flames, Canadiens, Maple Leafs, Morrow, Bernier, Wilson, Vanek, Schultz, Byfuglien and Vokoun
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 2nd, 2012
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Red Wings defenseman Kyle Quincey may have a hearing today at 1 PM for his elbow to the head of Panthers forward Tomas Kopecky.
- Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: The Flames missed the playoffs for the 3rd season in a row, and the team is at a crossroads. Jarome Iginla will be 35 when next season starts and is in the final year of his deal. Does Iginla want to stay and take part in another rebuild? If not, they need to find out quickly and attempt to get the most return for him. Miikka Kiprusoff has 2 years left, he’ll make $5 million next year and $1.5 million the following year. Brent Sutter’s status will need to be re-evaluated this summer. UFAs are: Olli Jokinen, Lee Stempniak, David Moss, Tom Kostopoulos, Cory Sarich and Scott Hannan. Feaster’s primary need is a #1 center.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson handicaps the next Canadiens GM: 3-1 Patrick Roy, 4-1 Julien Brisebois. 5-1 Francois Giguere, 7-1 Marc Bergevin, 8-1 Pierre McGuire, 9-1 Claude Loiselle, 10-1 Vincent Damphousse, 12-1 Pierre Dorion, 15-1 Pat Brisson. The Stars may ask Brenden Morrow for a list of teams that he might be willing to accept a trade to this summer. The Lightning will look at Jonathan Bernier this summer, but the Kings won’t move him until they get a veteran to backup Quick. They’ll be looking for someone who’s started before. The Predators may not have a fit for their 2008 1st round pick, Colin Wilson, and may look to move him after the season. Sabres winger Thomas Vanek has possibly been playing with a shoulder problem for months. Matheson wonders where the Maple Leafs will get a #1 goalie. Would Calgary move Kiprusoff? Matheson offers a Schneider for Gardiner and Reimer deal or their lottery pick and a defenseman not named Gardiner. It doesn’t look like Ducks prospect Justin Schultz wants to sign with them, and many feel the Rangers have the inside track. One GM said the Oilers would be a good fit for Schultz. The Stars will go after Ryan Suter and Zach Parise, but the Red Wings may have the inside track.
- Gary Lawless of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien has a “lower body bone bruise.”
“It’s never fun to play hurt and it has cut down on my ability to get around out there. But you have to help the team and I won’t shut it down for even a game until we’re eliminated. I have to do my part,” said Byfuglien.
- Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun suffered another groin injury and may have played his last game for the Capitals.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs need to acquire a goalie this summer, but the free agent crop isn’t that great: Tomas Vokoun, Josh Harding, Martin Biron and Chris Mason. The Leafs need to look bigger: Roberto Luongo, Cory Scneider or Miikka Kiprusoff.
Afternoon notes: Schultz, Selanne, Toews, Scrivens, D’Agostini, new Devils lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 29th, 2012
- Jonathan Willis of the Edmonton Journal: If Ducks defensive prospect Justin Schultz decides not to sign the Ducks and become a UFA on July 1st, Bob McKenzie thinks the Oilers have the best chance at landing him. TSN’s Aaron Ward thinks the Red Wings are the best bet, with Marc Crawford picking the Maple Leafs.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Ducks winger Teemu Selanne doesn’t know if he’ll return next year or not. He leads the team with 63 points in 76 games.
“I’m not going to think about it before the season is over and then give it a couple weeks and get a feel from there,” he said after the Ducks practiced in preparation for Wednesday’s game against Pacific division-leading San Jose.
“There are so many highs and lows during the season. I have to feel the situation.”
Chris Kuc via twitter: Blackhawks Jonathan Toews is expected to be cleared for contact today or tomorrow.
- James Mirtle via twitter: With Maple Leafs goalie Ben Scrivens just being called up for yesterday, he made an extra $2,800.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Zajac-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Zubrus; Ponikarovsky-Henrique-Clarkson; Carter-Josefson-Bernier.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues have activated Matt D’Agostini from the IR and he’ll play tonight.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals against the Bruins.
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Al Montoya will start in net for the Islanders.
- Mike Morreale via twitter: Martin Brodeur will start in net for the Devils.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will start in net for the Leafs against the Flyers.
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