Well, here's something you haven't heard about lately.
Pittsburgh- The SuperPens are doing okay. I now regret the signing of Yanic Perrault, he has only scored 10 points. I put both my goalies up for grabs, but it didn't work in time. I will probably make some big moves in the offseason.
Rimouski- Oh wait, I was fired form this one.
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton- Oops, fired again.
Prince Albert- Actually, I wasn't fired from this one, although my board of directors has sometimes not been pleased. I am trying to move Ryan DePape, but the trade deadline has passed.
Oshawa- Not gone yet, however, thanks to John Tavares being gone on international play for a long time, I went down below .500 for a while and might not make the playoffs.
St. Louis- This team is actually looking good for next year if I keep most of my players. I signed Martin Rucinsky recently, and he has scored 25 points in 27 games. Even better, I picked up Ryan Smyth off of waivers, and he has scored 21 points in 16 games, including 13 goals. Fernando Pisani and Bobby Holik were also claimed from waivers, and while their offensive output (12 points for Holik in 24 games, 9 points for Pisani in 17 games) hasn't been as spectacular as Smyth and Rucinsky, they still provide good play. I did lose Peter Senja to waivers to clear cap space.
Phoenix- This team is doing way better than the real one. I am currently at 39-29-7, or something close to that, and only needed 2 waiver pick-ups. Trent Whitfield came for a draft pick, and Peter Senja came from waivers. Hannu Toivenen has been great in a long emergency call-up, going 11-7-3 in 25 games, and I will probably keep him and send Phillip Suave down to the minors, because he has a 3-4-2 record in 10 games.
That's all of EHM for now.
- Craig Conroy is having one of the best turnaround seasons in the NHL. Don't think so? Try 5 goals and 16 points in 52 games with the Kings, but now 5 goals and 14 points in 16 games as a Flame. That goes with being -13 as a King, but +4 as a Flame, a 6.8 shooting percentage with the Kings but a 23.8 percentage with the Flames. Other Flames that are really one fire; Dion Phaneuf (just 5 points away from career high in 17 less games, no sophomore slump to be found), Kristian Huselius (The way I've covered him, you've got to know how good he is), Alex Tanguay (Good thing he didn't go to center, left-winger once again over a point-per-game), Jarome Iginla (without an injury, he would be at 85-90 points, still has 76 in 55 games).
Got to go, I'll get back to publishing regularly tomorrow.
3.08.2007
Final Deadline Analysis
I will give a team-by-team analysis for each trade performed, and how it has/how I predict it turn out.
Anahiem- The Ducks were relatively quiet during the actual regular season. They shipped off Stanislav Chistov and Todd Fedoruk in minor deals, acquiring draft picks. They also acquired George Parros from Colorado. Parros added relatively nothing to the Ducks, other than replacing Fedoruk as resident fighter. Due to injuries, they added Ric Jackman from Florida for a 7th round pick in 07. They switched prospects with Nashville, sending Chris Durno for Shane Endicott, but that had no impact either. Mark Hartigan and Joe Motzko were acquired from Columbus for Zenon Konopka and Curtis Glencross, but each of the incoming players were sent to Portland (AHL). Endicott was sent to the Stars for future considerations, so we will have to see who they end up receiving. Then, in a small shocker, they sent talented rookie Shane O'Brien to the Lightning for goaltending prospect Gerald Coleman. So far, it has weakened the 3rd defense pair, but shouldn't be too bad. On deadline day, they sent Michael Wall, an obscure goalie prospect, to Colorado for Brad May, apparently thinking that Parros doesn't fight enough. They also shipped Joe Rullier to the Lightning for Doug O'Brien, a minor-league player who won't help much. Overall, the Ducks stayed quieter than expected, and it may reflect poorly in the playoffs.
Atlanta- The Thrashers made some pretty good deals to boost them into the playoffs for the first time this season. They first upgraded there depth, sending prospect forwards Kyle Wanvig and Stephen Baby to the Lightning for defenseman Andy Delmore and center Andre Deveaux. A smart deal they made was to boost their two-way play by acquiring Eric Belanger from Nashville for Vitaly Vishenvski. Belanger has helped the penalty-kill a good deal, and tries to provide offense. Then the Thrashers really got started, replacing Vishnevski with Alexei Zhitnik from Philadelphia. They did have to give up Braydon Coburn in that deal, but Zhitnik will help.
The next day, they received scoring winger Keith Tkachuk from St. Louis for Glen Metropolit and a herd of draft picks. Depending on who the Blues draft, and where Tkachuk signs next year, this could be the best or worst move the Thrashers ever made. Then, on deadline day, they shipped top prospect Alex Bourret to the Rangers for Pascal Dupuis, who will replace Metropolit. If the Thrash don't go deep in the playoffs, fans will be unhappy.
Boston- This team probably expected to make the playoffs back in November, when they shipped a couple of draft picks to Anahiem for depth player Stanislav Chistov. Chistov only provides low scoring, and didn't help the Bruins go anywhere. They also tried to help the goaltending, acquiring Phil Suave from Phoenix, but he never helped either, and it cost them Tyler Redenbach. So, the Bruins became sellers. Yan Stastny was sent to St. Louis for a 5th round pick in 07, while depth defenseman Wade Brookbank went to Pittsburgh for future considerations. Young D-man Milan Jurcina went to Washington for a 4th rounder in 08. Then, the B's made a small switch to buyers when Brandon Bochenski was received from Chicago for Kris Versteeg and a conditional draft pick. Bochenski has brought some offense, but is still young. But, they resumed to selling when Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau went to the Calgary Flames for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew. Ference has come up with some solid play, but can't be relied upon so heavily. Kobasew is out indefinitely with injuries, but is signed through next season and could help then. The B's made two big moves on deadline day with the acquisition of Aaron Ward from the Rangers for Paul Mara, and Ward should provide consistency, although a lack of offense, to the B's defense. They also sent highly touted Brad Boyes to St. Louis for Dennis Wideman. Wideman is a nice young defender with the ability to give 20 minutes a night, so he should help. Overall, the Bruins are looking to the future, and they hope it will be bright.
Buffalo- The Sabres were inactive for most of the season, but made several big deals on deadline day. First, they acquired goaltender Ty Conklin from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 5th round draft pick in 07. Conklin will be a good backup, but hasn't had much experience and flopped largely in last years playoffs. That deal was apparently in preparation for dealing Martin Biron to the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2nd round pick in 07. These two trades combined together are kind of neutral, because while essentially swapping a 5th round pick for a 2nd round pick helps, Conklin for Biron is sending inexperienced youth for experienced youth. But the Sabres weren't done there. The next trade was to send Jiri Novotny and a 1st round pick to Washington for Dainius Zubrus and Timo Helbling. Zubrus was a good acquisition, and he always plays well when surrounded by skill, and the Sabres have skill. Helbling is a potential 3rd pairing defenseman who might help in later years. They also sent a 4th round pick to Nashville for Mikko Lehtonen. Lehtonen will provide good insurance while Spacek is down, and will stay as an extra when he returns. Clearly, the Sabres want to win now, and they probably won't get a major player in the draft unless a late gem appears.
Calgary- The Flames bolstered up this year, and could make a good playoff run. They stayed quiet until making a trade with Los Angeles. The Flames re-acquired Craig Conroy from the Kings for Jamie Lundmark and several picks. Conroy has since boosted the offense and paired with Kristian Huselius to provide a strong second line. Next, the Boston trade. Acquiring Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew is a big upgrade. Stuart has given them quality minutes so far, and has some playoff experience in his books. Primeau, expected to be the kind of 'other' player in the deal, has provided some extra unexpected offense, and has served the team well. The team then made one small deal, acquiring David Hale and a 5th round pick from New Jersey for a 3rd rounder. The Flames are looking good.
Carolina- The Canes have picked up a few pieces in order to return to the playoff hunt. They started off loud, trading over-paid Oleg Tverdovsky and top prospect Jack Johnson to Los Angeles for Tim Gleason and Eric Belanger. Gleason has provided some solid defensive play, but Belanger has moved elsewhere. Brad Isbister and Derrick Walser were moved in minor deals involving prospects and draft picks. They did make an interesting move due to injuries, acquiring Dennis Siedenberg from Phoenix for Kevyn Adams. Siedenberg has since become an extra after everbody got healthy, but was good while he was used. Then comes the Belanger deal, kind of a three-way that involved Eric Belanger being sent to Nashville for the return of Josef Vasicek. Belanger was then sent to Atlanta. Vasicek is okay, he has scored 2 points 8 games. The Canes made one last big deal, stealing Anson Carter away from the Blue Jackets, and only giving up a 5th round draft pick in return. Carter was expected to help score, but has yet to get a point in two games with Carolina. Overall, the Hurricanes want to make the playoffs this year, but are ready for the future if that goal can't be reached.
Chicago- The Hawks have been sellers almost all year. There first deal was to send Sebastien Caron, Chris Durno, and Matt Keith to Anaheim for Pierre Parenteau and Bruno St. Jacques. Parenteau has been useful as a call-up, but not much has come from St. Jacques. They then sent Brandon Bochenski to Boston for prospect Kris Versteeg and a conditional pick in 08. Then, at the deadline, they became more active. They sent Bryan Smolinski to Vancouver for a 2nd round pick, and made a three-way deal with Philadelphia and Detroit. They re-acquired Kyle Calder from the Flyers for Lasse Kukkonen, and then sent Calder up to Detroit for Jason Williams. Williams will provide more scoring than Calder, but otherwise brings the same role. Then they sent Karl Stewart and a 6th-round pick to Tampa Bay for winger Nikita Alexeev. These deals are good for the future, although they didn't get anything on D to replace Kukkonen. Colorado- The Avs mostly made minor deals this year, and didn't upgrade a whole lot. George Parros was sent to Anaheim for some draft picks, but then stayed silent until the deadline. There they sent oft-injured Brad May to Anahiem for prospect Michael Wall, and acquired minor-league player Scott Parker from the Sharks for a 6th round pick in 08. Overall, the Avs stayed relatively the same, and won't make the playoffs unless a large run comes.
Columbus- The Blue Jackets weren't specifically sellers or buyers. Their first deal involved minor-league players, as they sent Eric Boguniecki to the Islanders for Ryan Caldwell. They also recieved Derrick Walser from Carolina for Mark Flood in an exchange of relatively unused players. They received 2 youngsters, Zenon Konopka and Curtis Glencross, from Anahiem in exchange for Mark Hartigan and Joe Motzko. Konopka and Glencross have proved good for the future. They received a 5th round pick in 2008 for Anson Carter, but that deal will probably turn against them. Ty Conklin, the 3rd string goalie, went to Buffalo for a 5th rounder this year. If they have a good draft, the Jackets will be okay, but they added almost nothing for next year.
Dallas- The Stars have made some moves, but not many. The first trade they made, at the beginning of the year, was to ship Janne Niinimaa and a 5th rounder in 07 to Montreal for Mike Ribeiro and a 6th round pick in 08. So far, Ribeiro is one of the leading playmakers on the Stars, and has stayed healthy despite lots of time. They then stayed silent until mid-February, sending youngster Mathias Tjarnqvist and the 1st round pick in 07 to Phoenix for Ladislav Nagy. Nagy hasn't had a lot of time with Dallas, but should prove to be a nice player. They picked up prospect Shane Endicott from Anaheim for future considerations, but didn't do anything else major until the deadline. Then, on the 27th, they made a blockbuster. They sent Jaroslav Modry, Johan Fransson, and 3 draft picks to Los Angeles for Mattias Norstrom, prospect Konstantin Pushkarev, and 2 draft picks. This trade has yet to show results, as it is only 2 days after the trade, and Norstrom is injured. Pushkarev is in the AHL, and will do great no matter which team he is on. He is extremely versatile and that is just what the Stars need. The Stars will make the playoffs unless a huge slump occurs, but if there is a Sidney Crosby in the next 2-3 drafts, the Stars won't get him.
Detroit- The Wings have made several deals this year, and some are sure to have large impact. The first trade they completed was to send prospect Drew McIntyre to Vancouver for a conditional draft pick. They also sent Jason Williams to Chicago for Kyle Calder on the day before the deadline. But it was on the deadline that they made the biggest move. They sent two conditional draft picks to Florida for winger Todd Bertuzzi. Bertuzzi is injured right now, which is why the picks are conditional. But if Bertuzzi re-becomes Big Bert of old, then the Wings made a steal. Although the moves are few, they should have big impact.
Edmonton- This team pulled of some shockers and blanks on its way out of the playoffs. They stayed quiet for a while, trying to determine their standing in the playoffs. Once they realized they were out, the selling started. First, offensive D-man Marc-Andre Bergeron to the New York Islanders for prospect Denis Grebeshkov. Hopefully Grebeshkov will come to the Oil soon, because he is projected as a 50-60 point blueliner. Then, in a last minute earth-shaking trade, emotional leader Ryan Smyth was traded to the New York Islanders for prospects Robert Nilsson, Ryan O'Marra, and a first-round pick in 07. This sent a message to the world saying, the Edmonton Oilers are solely focused on the future.
Florida- This team was an active seller throughout the year, especially at the deadline. First, they sent defenseman Ric Jackman to Anaheim for a 7th round pick in 07, but that was the only move before February. Then, Gary Roberts was sent to Pittsburgh for prospect Noah Welch, and long-injured Todd Bertuzzi went to Detroit for two conditional draft picks. They made on last deal with Pittsburgh, sending young defenseman Joel Kwiatkowski for 4th round pick in 07. The Panthers, realizing that a playoff berth is no longer in sight, are relying on the draft to help them.
Los Angeles- Another team bent towards selling rather than buying. They first sent Eric Belanger and Tim Gleason to Carolina for Oleg Tverdovsky and prospect Jack Johnson. Tverdovsky has since been an extra for L.A., occasionally being sent to Manchester (AHL). Johnson is currently playing for a national development team, but could be NHL ready next year. Then, they sent goalie prospect Ryan Munce to Tampa Bay for a 4th rounder in 08. Then they sent center Craig Conroy, who appeared to be struggling, back to Calgary for Jamie Lundmark for a 4th round pick in 07 and a 2nd rounder in 08. Then, after recently re-signing him, they sent the ever-heard Sean Avery along with prospect John Seymour to the New York Rangers for Jason Ward and prospects Marc-Andre Cliche and Jan Marek. They sent away blueliner Brent Sopel to Vancouver for an 07 or 08 draft pick, and another 08 pick. Then came the blockbuster, sending away captain Mattias Norstrom and prospect Konstantin Pushkarev, and 2 draft picks, to Dallas for Jaroslav Modry, prospect Johan Fransson, and 3 draft picks. Modry has yet to play a game for L.A. this year, but was a key D-man in his last stint with the team. They sent Jason Ward to his 3rd team this year, receiving a 5th round pick from Tampa Bay in return. They made one last deal, replacing Sopel with Jamie Heward from Washington, giving up a 5th round pick in 08. The Kings should have a strong future.
Minnesota- Compared to last year, and the off-season, the Wild were about as loud as a sailboat in the middle of an aircraft carrier platoon. The first trade they made was to send winger Pascal Dupuis to New York for Adam Hall. Hall has helped a penalty-kill that was already spectacular, and tries to add offense. They also added Dominic Moore, another key player for the PK, from Pittsburgh for a draft pick. That would prove to be the only deal they made. However, this team is already strong and should go at least as far as they did in 2003.
Montreal- The Canadiens have made several moves this year, yet continue to move in and out of playoff contention. Their first move was to send underachieving center Mike Reibero to Dallas for defenseman Janne Niinimaa. Niinimaa isn't bad, but he hasn't helped the way he should have. Then, in a depth deal, they acquired defenseman Patrick Traverse from San Jose for defenseman Matheiu Biron. The next move was to go for youth, as veteran defenseman Craig Rivet and a 08 5th round draft pick was sent to San Jose for youngster Josh Gorges and a 1st round pick in 07. Gorges has not yet played for Montreal, and struggled in San Jose, but perhaps new scenery will re-track hi promising career. Those were the only moves the Canadiens dared to make, but they will help once the draft comes around.
Nashville- This team has made some major roster improvements that should lead to a Cup run. First, a small prospect deal sent Shane Endicott to Anahiem for Chris Durno. Then, struggling center Josef Vasicek back to Carolina for Eric Belanger. Having previously told Belanger that he wouldn't be staying, they dealt him straight to the Atlanta Thrashers for defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski. Through six games, Vishnevski has kept up his crushing hits and even managed to register an assist. Then came the biggest move of the 'new' NHL. The Predators sent winger Scottie Upshall, prospect D-man Ryan Parent, and 1st and 3rd round draft picks in 07 to Philadelphia for Peter Forsberg. So far, Forsberg has helped out reasonably well, scoring 1 goal and 3 points in 6 games, but he received huge criticism for falling flat on his face during a shootout. That would prove to be all the Preds needed to do this year, and they should have a great rest of the year.
New Jersey- The Devils mostly made small moves this season, because their roster is tight. they made a small deal, sending Vladimir Malakhov and a conditional draft pick to San Jose for Alexander Korolyuk and Jim Fahey. Korolyuk stayed in Russia, and Fahey is in the minors. Then, they attempted to trade Korolyuk back to San Jose, but it was voided because Koroyluk stayed in Russia. They were also quiet at the deadline, making just one deal. They sent defenseman David Hale, a young player who didn't fit in, to Calgary along with a 5th round pick in 07, for a 3rd rounder in 07. The Devils will likely have the same results as last year. They were a strong team surrounded by stronger ones.
New York Islanders- This team made several good deals that few people expected. First, GM Garth Snow made a smart move by dumping veteran Alexei Zhitnik to the Flyers for promising youngster Freddy Meyer and a conditional draft pick. So far, Meyer has proved to be a consistent youngster with big potential. Then, four days later, the Flyers and Islanders swapped again when underachieving Mike York went to Philly for Randy Robitaille. Robitaille has since become one of the best two-way forwards on the Islanders. The Isles swapped minor-leaguers with Ottawa, sending Matt Koalska for Tomas Malec. Malec has yet to play for the big club. In February, the big trades started coming, with Marc-Andre Bergeron being acquired from Edmonton for Denis Grebeshkov. Bergeron has done well, scoring 3 assists in 4 games with the Isles. Garth Snow also added Richard Zednik from Washington for a 2nd round pick in 07. Zednik has played just one game, but managed 3 shots and a plus-1 rating. Finally, in a last minute, trrade-deadline shocker, Ryan Smyth was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers for Robert Nilsson, Ryan O'Marra, and the 07 1st round pick. While this move is risky (O'Marra and Nilsson were 2 of the best prospects, and Smyth is a UFA this year), it shows Garth Snow's want of winning. Smyth should make his debut tonight. The Isles could make the playoffs this year, and are doing great.
New York Rangers- Compared to the Islanders, the Rangers are at the other end of the spectrum. They started out well, but most of these deals were forced by losing. Sean Avary and prospect John Seymour were acquired from L.A. in return for prospects Marc-Andre Cliche and Jan Marek. Avery has helped some, but not a whole lot. They also received Pascal Dupuis for Adam Hall, but that didn't work too well. They acquired Paul Mara for Aaron Ward in a trade with Boston. Mara has not debuted yet, but could tonight. Dupuis was sent to Atlanta for to prospect Alex Bourret, so the Rangers do realize that they need the future. The Rangers are rebuilding once more.
Ottawa- The Sens didn't make a whole lot of deals, but some of them will make a difference. They first made a simple trade, sending Tomas Malec to the New York Islanders for Matt Koalska, in a deal that wouldn't do anything. They acquired Mike Comrie from Phoenix for lost prospect Alexei Kaigorodov, and Comrie has done fine. They also made a small move on deadline day, acquiring Oleg Saprykin and a 7th round pick in 07 from the Phoenix Coyotes for a 2nd round pick in 08. That would be all for the Sens, who did almost nothing to help their roster. The Sens are on pace for the playoffs, but might not go far.
Philadelphia- This Flyers team were sellers if there ever were sellers. Right off the bat, they re-acquired Todd Fedoruk from Anahiem for a 4th round pick in 07. Fedoruk has done ok as a Flyer, when you compare him to the rest of the team. Then they let youngster Freddy Meyer and a conditional draft pick be swept up by the Islanders for veteran Alexei Zhitnik. They also recieved Mike York for Randy Robitaille in a second swap with the Islanders. Then, they performed the Forsberg trade with Nashville, recieving Scottie Upshall, prospect Ryan Parent, and 1st and 3rd round draft picks in the upcoming draft of 07. Upshall has done ok, scoring 2 goals and 4 points in 6 games as a Flyer. Parent will be a good defenseman soon, and, depending on when the 1st rounder comes in, could help the Flyers snag two of the best players in the upcoming draft, such as Logan Coutoure or Alexei Cheraponov. The Flyers built up their future even more when they acquired Braydon Coburn from Atlanta for Zhitnik. Coburn did ok in 1 game as a Flyer so far. Also, the Flyers sent Kyle Calder back to Chicago for young Lasse Kukkonen and another 3rd round pick. Kukkonen also played just one Flyers game, and did fine. Still, the Flyers weren't done. They sent a 2nd round pick in 07 to Buffalo for Martin Biron, which is kind of a surprising deal. Biron is a possible rental, but only someone blind and deaf couldn't tell that the Flyers are out of the playoffs. Either way, Biron is already starting to help. He one his first game in net for the musical-chairs-of-goalies Flyers. With all the moves that Philadelphia made, they are sure to make a strong, far away future.
Phoenix- Another seller that knew they wouldn't make it. They first traded goalie Phil Suave to Boston for prospect Tyler Redenbach. Then, they acquired a better goaltender in Mikael Tellqvist from Toronto for winger Tyson Nash and a 4th round draft pick. Tellqvist has a 10-8-2 record in 21 games for Phoenix. They also sent Mike Comrie to Ottawa for Alexei Kaigorodov. Kaigorodov is still a prospect, and has some bad history with the NHL. Next, they sent defenseman Dennis Seidenberg to Carolina for veteran center Kevyn Adams. Adams has helped some, with 3 assists in 16 games, but is often injured. They also sent scoring-winger Ladislav Nagy, who had fallen foul with the team due to a lack of defensive play, to Dallas for Mathias Tjarnqvist and a 1st round draft pick. Tjarnqvist has 1 goal and 3 points in 8 games with the Dogs. They also sent winger Oleg Saprykin and a 7th round pick in 07 to Ottawa for a 2nd round pick in 08. Then, tough guy Georges Laraque went to Pittsburgh for a 3rd round pick in 08 and prospect Dan Carcillo. The last move was to send veteran center Yanic Perrault and an 08 5th round pick to Toronto for youngster for Brendan Bell and a 2nd rounder in 08. Bell has done ok, but only in 1 game. Phoenix is building towards the far future.
Pittsburgh- A team originally expected to be in the Flyers position, the SuperPens are on their way to the playoffs. They stayed quiet until deadline day, but then made a plethora of moves. They first acquired Gary Roberts from Florida for D-man Noah Welch. Roberts has scored a goal and two assists in 3 games with Pittsburgh. Then, Domininc Moore was sent to Minnesota for a 3rd round pick in 07. This was kind of a confusing move, as Moore was a key defensive player for the Pens. But, they did add a needed piece when Georges Laraque was added from Phoenix for a 08 3rd round pick and prospect Dan Carcillo. Laraque hasn't scored in his 3 games with Pittsburgh, but he provided his signature toughness against other teams. Joel Kwiatkowski was added from Florida to essentially replace Welch, and he cost a 4th rounder in 07. He hasn't played for Pittsburgh yet. Nolan Schaefer was added as a 3rd goalie in case Jocelyn Thibault goes down. The SuperPens should be in the playoffs this year.
San Jose- The Sharks are on their way to the playoffs once again. They traded Alexander Korolyuk and Jim Fahey to New Jersey for Vladimir Malakhov and a conditional pick. They then tried to get Korolyuk back from NJ for a conditional pick, but that trade was voided. They added Bill Guerin from San Jose for Ville Nieminen and prospect Jay Barriball, plus a 1st round pick in 07. Guerin has since played 3 games for San Jose, hasn't scored, but has a plus-4 rating and 7 shots. In response to losing the first-rounder, they dealt away prospect Nolan Schaefer for a 7th round pick in 07, and sent minor-leaguer Scott Parker to Colorado for a 6th rounder in 08. Despite a lack of moves, the Sharks are playing strong.
St. Louis- The Blues dealt away big names in order to build up for the future. Two days before the deadline, the Blues dealt Keith Tkachuk to Atlanta for Glen Metropolit, a 1st round draft pick in 07, a 3rd rounder in 07, a 2nd rounder in 08, and a conditional first rounder in 08. That's one heck of a draft the Blues will have. Metropolit has played 4 games for the Blues and gotten 1 assist. Then, Bill Guerin was dealt to San Jose for Ville Nieminen, a 1st rounder in 07, and prospect Jay Barriball. Neiminen has played 3 games without a point in a Blues uniform. Finally, Brad Boyes was added from Boston for young D-man Dennis Wideman. Boyes has 2 points in 3 games with the Blues. The Blues were shrewd, adding a lot of draft picks, but also adding players in case the draft failed.
Tampa Bay- The Lightning were restricted by the cap, but made small moves that should help. They traded Darren Reid, a depth player, to Philadelphia for prospect Daniel Corso. Corso is in the minors, and should make the jump soon. They also recieved two forward prospects from Atlanta, Kyle Wanvig and Stephen Baby, for depth players Andy Delmore and Andre Deveaux. Wanvig was in the minors with Atlanta, but has played four scoreless, but well played, games with Tampa. They traded goalie prospect Gerald Coleman and an 07 first round draft pick for Shane O'Brien and a third round pick. O'Brien has provided some much needed offense from the blueline, with an assist in 4 games. He also has 16 PIM's for an average of 4 per game with Tampa, so he helps on the physical side. They added Karl Stewart and a 6th round pick in 08 from Chicago for Nikita Alexeev. Stewart has been a energy guy on the fourth line, playing 3 games and getting 2 PIM's. Stewart could've tied an NHL record if he had played any games for Anahiem, as this is his 4th franchise that he is on the roster, but only the third team he has played games for. They sent minor league defenseman Doug O'Brien to Anahiem for Joe Rullier, but that move has yet to make an impact. A last trade sent a 5th round pick in 07 to L.A. for Jason Ward. Ward has also played for three franchises, and hasn't scored in three games with the Lightning. Tampa is in the push for a playoff spot, but a mistake could be costly.
Toronto- The Leafs didn't make a whole lot of moves. They sent goalie Mikael Tellqvist to Phoenix for Tyson Nash and a 4th round pick in 07, but Nash has remained in the minors. They made just one other move, acquiring Yanic Perrault and a 5th round pick in 08 from Phoenix for Brendan Bell and a 2nd round pick in 08. Perrault has provided some nice play, scoring one goals in 3 games. He also has a shootout goal. Will the Leafs ever be the same franchise?
Vancouver- The Canucks are doing a lot better than last year. They acquired prospect Drew McIntyre from Detroit for a conditional draft pick in 07, but their goaltending is already strong. They swapped prospects with Anahiem, sending Joe Rullier for Colby Gennoway, but that shouldn't make an impact for a while. They re-acquired Brent Sopel from Los Angeles, in return for a 2nd round pick in either 07 or 08, and a 4th round pick in 08. Sopel took the move in stride, getting his 20th assist for a point in four Canuck games. Bryan Smolinski was also added from Chicago for a 2nd round pick in 07, and he has also done well in his new uniform, getting 3 points in 4 games. The Canucks decided that they were tight after that, and they are on their way to the playoffs.
Washington- The Capitals made some surprising moves this year, in order to build up their future. They added youngster Milan Jurcina from Boston for a 4th round pick in 07. Jurcina has made a clear improvement to the blueline, scoring more points (4) in 15 games with Washington than he had (3) in 40 games with Boston. Oft-injured and under-producing winger Richard Zednik was sent to the New York Islanders for a 2nd round pick in 07. D-man Lawrence Nycholat was sent to Ottawa for prospect Andy Hedlund and a 6th round pick in 07. Dainius Zubrus, one of Alexander Ovechkin's good friends, was dealt to Buffalo with Timo Helbling for Jiri Novotny and a 1st round pick in 07. Novotny has a point in 3 games. They also sent defenseman Jamie Heward, an extra since John Erskine was signed by free agency, went to Los Angeles for a 5th round pick in 08. The Caps will have a good draft, but people might want results sooner rather than later.
This report was done over several days starting on the trade deadline, so the stats might be all different. I will write more later today, because I missed so much.
Anahiem- The Ducks were relatively quiet during the actual regular season. They shipped off Stanislav Chistov and Todd Fedoruk in minor deals, acquiring draft picks. They also acquired George Parros from Colorado. Parros added relatively nothing to the Ducks, other than replacing Fedoruk as resident fighter. Due to injuries, they added Ric Jackman from Florida for a 7th round pick in 07. They switched prospects with Nashville, sending Chris Durno for Shane Endicott, but that had no impact either. Mark Hartigan and Joe Motzko were acquired from Columbus for Zenon Konopka and Curtis Glencross, but each of the incoming players were sent to Portland (AHL). Endicott was sent to the Stars for future considerations, so we will have to see who they end up receiving. Then, in a small shocker, they sent talented rookie Shane O'Brien to the Lightning for goaltending prospect Gerald Coleman. So far, it has weakened the 3rd defense pair, but shouldn't be too bad. On deadline day, they sent Michael Wall, an obscure goalie prospect, to Colorado for Brad May, apparently thinking that Parros doesn't fight enough. They also shipped Joe Rullier to the Lightning for Doug O'Brien, a minor-league player who won't help much. Overall, the Ducks stayed quieter than expected, and it may reflect poorly in the playoffs.
Atlanta- The Thrashers made some pretty good deals to boost them into the playoffs for the first time this season. They first upgraded there depth, sending prospect forwards Kyle Wanvig and Stephen Baby to the Lightning for defenseman Andy Delmore and center Andre Deveaux. A smart deal they made was to boost their two-way play by acquiring Eric Belanger from Nashville for Vitaly Vishenvski. Belanger has helped the penalty-kill a good deal, and tries to provide offense. Then the Thrashers really got started, replacing Vishnevski with Alexei Zhitnik from Philadelphia. They did have to give up Braydon Coburn in that deal, but Zhitnik will help.
The next day, they received scoring winger Keith Tkachuk from St. Louis for Glen Metropolit and a herd of draft picks. Depending on who the Blues draft, and where Tkachuk signs next year, this could be the best or worst move the Thrashers ever made. Then, on deadline day, they shipped top prospect Alex Bourret to the Rangers for Pascal Dupuis, who will replace Metropolit. If the Thrash don't go deep in the playoffs, fans will be unhappy.
Boston- This team probably expected to make the playoffs back in November, when they shipped a couple of draft picks to Anahiem for depth player Stanislav Chistov. Chistov only provides low scoring, and didn't help the Bruins go anywhere. They also tried to help the goaltending, acquiring Phil Suave from Phoenix, but he never helped either, and it cost them Tyler Redenbach. So, the Bruins became sellers. Yan Stastny was sent to St. Louis for a 5th round pick in 07, while depth defenseman Wade Brookbank went to Pittsburgh for future considerations. Young D-man Milan Jurcina went to Washington for a 4th rounder in 08. Then, the B's made a small switch to buyers when Brandon Bochenski was received from Chicago for Kris Versteeg and a conditional draft pick. Bochenski has brought some offense, but is still young. But, they resumed to selling when Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau went to the Calgary Flames for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew. Ference has come up with some solid play, but can't be relied upon so heavily. Kobasew is out indefinitely with injuries, but is signed through next season and could help then. The B's made two big moves on deadline day with the acquisition of Aaron Ward from the Rangers for Paul Mara, and Ward should provide consistency, although a lack of offense, to the B's defense. They also sent highly touted Brad Boyes to St. Louis for Dennis Wideman. Wideman is a nice young defender with the ability to give 20 minutes a night, so he should help. Overall, the Bruins are looking to the future, and they hope it will be bright.
Buffalo- The Sabres were inactive for most of the season, but made several big deals on deadline day. First, they acquired goaltender Ty Conklin from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 5th round draft pick in 07. Conklin will be a good backup, but hasn't had much experience and flopped largely in last years playoffs. That deal was apparently in preparation for dealing Martin Biron to the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2nd round pick in 07. These two trades combined together are kind of neutral, because while essentially swapping a 5th round pick for a 2nd round pick helps, Conklin for Biron is sending inexperienced youth for experienced youth. But the Sabres weren't done there. The next trade was to send Jiri Novotny and a 1st round pick to Washington for Dainius Zubrus and Timo Helbling. Zubrus was a good acquisition, and he always plays well when surrounded by skill, and the Sabres have skill. Helbling is a potential 3rd pairing defenseman who might help in later years. They also sent a 4th round pick to Nashville for Mikko Lehtonen. Lehtonen will provide good insurance while Spacek is down, and will stay as an extra when he returns. Clearly, the Sabres want to win now, and they probably won't get a major player in the draft unless a late gem appears.
Calgary- The Flames bolstered up this year, and could make a good playoff run. They stayed quiet until making a trade with Los Angeles. The Flames re-acquired Craig Conroy from the Kings for Jamie Lundmark and several picks. Conroy has since boosted the offense and paired with Kristian Huselius to provide a strong second line. Next, the Boston trade. Acquiring Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau for Andrew Ference and Chuck Kobasew is a big upgrade. Stuart has given them quality minutes so far, and has some playoff experience in his books. Primeau, expected to be the kind of 'other' player in the deal, has provided some extra unexpected offense, and has served the team well. The team then made one small deal, acquiring David Hale and a 5th round pick from New Jersey for a 3rd rounder. The Flames are looking good.
Carolina- The Canes have picked up a few pieces in order to return to the playoff hunt. They started off loud, trading over-paid Oleg Tverdovsky and top prospect Jack Johnson to Los Angeles for Tim Gleason and Eric Belanger. Gleason has provided some solid defensive play, but Belanger has moved elsewhere. Brad Isbister and Derrick Walser were moved in minor deals involving prospects and draft picks. They did make an interesting move due to injuries, acquiring Dennis Siedenberg from Phoenix for Kevyn Adams. Siedenberg has since become an extra after everbody got healthy, but was good while he was used. Then comes the Belanger deal, kind of a three-way that involved Eric Belanger being sent to Nashville for the return of Josef Vasicek. Belanger was then sent to Atlanta. Vasicek is okay, he has scored 2 points 8 games. The Canes made one last big deal, stealing Anson Carter away from the Blue Jackets, and only giving up a 5th round draft pick in return. Carter was expected to help score, but has yet to get a point in two games with Carolina. Overall, the Hurricanes want to make the playoffs this year, but are ready for the future if that goal can't be reached.
Chicago- The Hawks have been sellers almost all year. There first deal was to send Sebastien Caron, Chris Durno, and Matt Keith to Anaheim for Pierre Parenteau and Bruno St. Jacques. Parenteau has been useful as a call-up, but not much has come from St. Jacques. They then sent Brandon Bochenski to Boston for prospect Kris Versteeg and a conditional pick in 08. Then, at the deadline, they became more active. They sent Bryan Smolinski to Vancouver for a 2nd round pick, and made a three-way deal with Philadelphia and Detroit. They re-acquired Kyle Calder from the Flyers for Lasse Kukkonen, and then sent Calder up to Detroit for Jason Williams. Williams will provide more scoring than Calder, but otherwise brings the same role. Then they sent Karl Stewart and a 6th-round pick to Tampa Bay for winger Nikita Alexeev. These deals are good for the future, although they didn't get anything on D to replace Kukkonen. Colorado- The Avs mostly made minor deals this year, and didn't upgrade a whole lot. George Parros was sent to Anaheim for some draft picks, but then stayed silent until the deadline. There they sent oft-injured Brad May to Anahiem for prospect Michael Wall, and acquired minor-league player Scott Parker from the Sharks for a 6th round pick in 08. Overall, the Avs stayed relatively the same, and won't make the playoffs unless a large run comes.
Columbus- The Blue Jackets weren't specifically sellers or buyers. Their first deal involved minor-league players, as they sent Eric Boguniecki to the Islanders for Ryan Caldwell. They also recieved Derrick Walser from Carolina for Mark Flood in an exchange of relatively unused players. They received 2 youngsters, Zenon Konopka and Curtis Glencross, from Anahiem in exchange for Mark Hartigan and Joe Motzko. Konopka and Glencross have proved good for the future. They received a 5th round pick in 2008 for Anson Carter, but that deal will probably turn against them. Ty Conklin, the 3rd string goalie, went to Buffalo for a 5th rounder this year. If they have a good draft, the Jackets will be okay, but they added almost nothing for next year.
Dallas- The Stars have made some moves, but not many. The first trade they made, at the beginning of the year, was to ship Janne Niinimaa and a 5th rounder in 07 to Montreal for Mike Ribeiro and a 6th round pick in 08. So far, Ribeiro is one of the leading playmakers on the Stars, and has stayed healthy despite lots of time. They then stayed silent until mid-February, sending youngster Mathias Tjarnqvist and the 1st round pick in 07 to Phoenix for Ladislav Nagy. Nagy hasn't had a lot of time with Dallas, but should prove to be a nice player. They picked up prospect Shane Endicott from Anaheim for future considerations, but didn't do anything else major until the deadline. Then, on the 27th, they made a blockbuster. They sent Jaroslav Modry, Johan Fransson, and 3 draft picks to Los Angeles for Mattias Norstrom, prospect Konstantin Pushkarev, and 2 draft picks. This trade has yet to show results, as it is only 2 days after the trade, and Norstrom is injured. Pushkarev is in the AHL, and will do great no matter which team he is on. He is extremely versatile and that is just what the Stars need. The Stars will make the playoffs unless a huge slump occurs, but if there is a Sidney Crosby in the next 2-3 drafts, the Stars won't get him.
Detroit- The Wings have made several deals this year, and some are sure to have large impact. The first trade they completed was to send prospect Drew McIntyre to Vancouver for a conditional draft pick. They also sent Jason Williams to Chicago for Kyle Calder on the day before the deadline. But it was on the deadline that they made the biggest move. They sent two conditional draft picks to Florida for winger Todd Bertuzzi. Bertuzzi is injured right now, which is why the picks are conditional. But if Bertuzzi re-becomes Big Bert of old, then the Wings made a steal. Although the moves are few, they should have big impact.
Edmonton- This team pulled of some shockers and blanks on its way out of the playoffs. They stayed quiet for a while, trying to determine their standing in the playoffs. Once they realized they were out, the selling started. First, offensive D-man Marc-Andre Bergeron to the New York Islanders for prospect Denis Grebeshkov. Hopefully Grebeshkov will come to the Oil soon, because he is projected as a 50-60 point blueliner. Then, in a last minute earth-shaking trade, emotional leader Ryan Smyth was traded to the New York Islanders for prospects Robert Nilsson, Ryan O'Marra, and a first-round pick in 07. This sent a message to the world saying, the Edmonton Oilers are solely focused on the future.
Florida- This team was an active seller throughout the year, especially at the deadline. First, they sent defenseman Ric Jackman to Anaheim for a 7th round pick in 07, but that was the only move before February. Then, Gary Roberts was sent to Pittsburgh for prospect Noah Welch, and long-injured Todd Bertuzzi went to Detroit for two conditional draft picks. They made on last deal with Pittsburgh, sending young defenseman Joel Kwiatkowski for 4th round pick in 07. The Panthers, realizing that a playoff berth is no longer in sight, are relying on the draft to help them.
Los Angeles- Another team bent towards selling rather than buying. They first sent Eric Belanger and Tim Gleason to Carolina for Oleg Tverdovsky and prospect Jack Johnson. Tverdovsky has since been an extra for L.A., occasionally being sent to Manchester (AHL). Johnson is currently playing for a national development team, but could be NHL ready next year. Then, they sent goalie prospect Ryan Munce to Tampa Bay for a 4th rounder in 08. Then they sent center Craig Conroy, who appeared to be struggling, back to Calgary for Jamie Lundmark for a 4th round pick in 07 and a 2nd rounder in 08. Then, after recently re-signing him, they sent the ever-heard Sean Avery along with prospect John Seymour to the New York Rangers for Jason Ward and prospects Marc-Andre Cliche and Jan Marek. They sent away blueliner Brent Sopel to Vancouver for an 07 or 08 draft pick, and another 08 pick. Then came the blockbuster, sending away captain Mattias Norstrom and prospect Konstantin Pushkarev, and 2 draft picks, to Dallas for Jaroslav Modry, prospect Johan Fransson, and 3 draft picks. Modry has yet to play a game for L.A. this year, but was a key D-man in his last stint with the team. They sent Jason Ward to his 3rd team this year, receiving a 5th round pick from Tampa Bay in return. They made one last deal, replacing Sopel with Jamie Heward from Washington, giving up a 5th round pick in 08. The Kings should have a strong future.
Minnesota- Compared to last year, and the off-season, the Wild were about as loud as a sailboat in the middle of an aircraft carrier platoon. The first trade they made was to send winger Pascal Dupuis to New York for Adam Hall. Hall has helped a penalty-kill that was already spectacular, and tries to add offense. They also added Dominic Moore, another key player for the PK, from Pittsburgh for a draft pick. That would prove to be the only deal they made. However, this team is already strong and should go at least as far as they did in 2003.
Montreal- The Canadiens have made several moves this year, yet continue to move in and out of playoff contention. Their first move was to send underachieving center Mike Reibero to Dallas for defenseman Janne Niinimaa. Niinimaa isn't bad, but he hasn't helped the way he should have. Then, in a depth deal, they acquired defenseman Patrick Traverse from San Jose for defenseman Matheiu Biron. The next move was to go for youth, as veteran defenseman Craig Rivet and a 08 5th round draft pick was sent to San Jose for youngster Josh Gorges and a 1st round pick in 07. Gorges has not yet played for Montreal, and struggled in San Jose, but perhaps new scenery will re-track hi promising career. Those were the only moves the Canadiens dared to make, but they will help once the draft comes around.
Nashville- This team has made some major roster improvements that should lead to a Cup run. First, a small prospect deal sent Shane Endicott to Anahiem for Chris Durno. Then, struggling center Josef Vasicek back to Carolina for Eric Belanger. Having previously told Belanger that he wouldn't be staying, they dealt him straight to the Atlanta Thrashers for defenseman Vitaly Vishnevski. Through six games, Vishnevski has kept up his crushing hits and even managed to register an assist. Then came the biggest move of the 'new' NHL. The Predators sent winger Scottie Upshall, prospect D-man Ryan Parent, and 1st and 3rd round draft picks in 07 to Philadelphia for Peter Forsberg. So far, Forsberg has helped out reasonably well, scoring 1 goal and 3 points in 6 games, but he received huge criticism for falling flat on his face during a shootout. That would prove to be all the Preds needed to do this year, and they should have a great rest of the year.
New Jersey- The Devils mostly made small moves this season, because their roster is tight. they made a small deal, sending Vladimir Malakhov and a conditional draft pick to San Jose for Alexander Korolyuk and Jim Fahey. Korolyuk stayed in Russia, and Fahey is in the minors. Then, they attempted to trade Korolyuk back to San Jose, but it was voided because Koroyluk stayed in Russia. They were also quiet at the deadline, making just one deal. They sent defenseman David Hale, a young player who didn't fit in, to Calgary along with a 5th round pick in 07, for a 3rd rounder in 07. The Devils will likely have the same results as last year. They were a strong team surrounded by stronger ones.
New York Islanders- This team made several good deals that few people expected. First, GM Garth Snow made a smart move by dumping veteran Alexei Zhitnik to the Flyers for promising youngster Freddy Meyer and a conditional draft pick. So far, Meyer has proved to be a consistent youngster with big potential. Then, four days later, the Flyers and Islanders swapped again when underachieving Mike York went to Philly for Randy Robitaille. Robitaille has since become one of the best two-way forwards on the Islanders. The Isles swapped minor-leaguers with Ottawa, sending Matt Koalska for Tomas Malec. Malec has yet to play for the big club. In February, the big trades started coming, with Marc-Andre Bergeron being acquired from Edmonton for Denis Grebeshkov. Bergeron has done well, scoring 3 assists in 4 games with the Isles. Garth Snow also added Richard Zednik from Washington for a 2nd round pick in 07. Zednik has played just one game, but managed 3 shots and a plus-1 rating. Finally, in a last minute, trrade-deadline shocker, Ryan Smyth was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers for Robert Nilsson, Ryan O'Marra, and the 07 1st round pick. While this move is risky (O'Marra and Nilsson were 2 of the best prospects, and Smyth is a UFA this year), it shows Garth Snow's want of winning. Smyth should make his debut tonight. The Isles could make the playoffs this year, and are doing great.
New York Rangers- Compared to the Islanders, the Rangers are at the other end of the spectrum. They started out well, but most of these deals were forced by losing. Sean Avary and prospect John Seymour were acquired from L.A. in return for prospects Marc-Andre Cliche and Jan Marek. Avery has helped some, but not a whole lot. They also received Pascal Dupuis for Adam Hall, but that didn't work too well. They acquired Paul Mara for Aaron Ward in a trade with Boston. Mara has not debuted yet, but could tonight. Dupuis was sent to Atlanta for to prospect Alex Bourret, so the Rangers do realize that they need the future. The Rangers are rebuilding once more.
Ottawa- The Sens didn't make a whole lot of deals, but some of them will make a difference. They first made a simple trade, sending Tomas Malec to the New York Islanders for Matt Koalska, in a deal that wouldn't do anything. They acquired Mike Comrie from Phoenix for lost prospect Alexei Kaigorodov, and Comrie has done fine. They also made a small move on deadline day, acquiring Oleg Saprykin and a 7th round pick in 07 from the Phoenix Coyotes for a 2nd round pick in 08. That would be all for the Sens, who did almost nothing to help their roster. The Sens are on pace for the playoffs, but might not go far.
Philadelphia- This Flyers team were sellers if there ever were sellers. Right off the bat, they re-acquired Todd Fedoruk from Anahiem for a 4th round pick in 07. Fedoruk has done ok as a Flyer, when you compare him to the rest of the team. Then they let youngster Freddy Meyer and a conditional draft pick be swept up by the Islanders for veteran Alexei Zhitnik. They also recieved Mike York for Randy Robitaille in a second swap with the Islanders. Then, they performed the Forsberg trade with Nashville, recieving Scottie Upshall, prospect Ryan Parent, and 1st and 3rd round draft picks in the upcoming draft of 07. Upshall has done ok, scoring 2 goals and 4 points in 6 games as a Flyer. Parent will be a good defenseman soon, and, depending on when the 1st rounder comes in, could help the Flyers snag two of the best players in the upcoming draft, such as Logan Coutoure or Alexei Cheraponov. The Flyers built up their future even more when they acquired Braydon Coburn from Atlanta for Zhitnik. Coburn did ok in 1 game as a Flyer so far. Also, the Flyers sent Kyle Calder back to Chicago for young Lasse Kukkonen and another 3rd round pick. Kukkonen also played just one Flyers game, and did fine. Still, the Flyers weren't done. They sent a 2nd round pick in 07 to Buffalo for Martin Biron, which is kind of a surprising deal. Biron is a possible rental, but only someone blind and deaf couldn't tell that the Flyers are out of the playoffs. Either way, Biron is already starting to help. He one his first game in net for the musical-chairs-of-goalies Flyers. With all the moves that Philadelphia made, they are sure to make a strong, far away future.
Phoenix- Another seller that knew they wouldn't make it. They first traded goalie Phil Suave to Boston for prospect Tyler Redenbach. Then, they acquired a better goaltender in Mikael Tellqvist from Toronto for winger Tyson Nash and a 4th round draft pick. Tellqvist has a 10-8-2 record in 21 games for Phoenix. They also sent Mike Comrie to Ottawa for Alexei Kaigorodov. Kaigorodov is still a prospect, and has some bad history with the NHL. Next, they sent defenseman Dennis Seidenberg to Carolina for veteran center Kevyn Adams. Adams has helped some, with 3 assists in 16 games, but is often injured. They also sent scoring-winger Ladislav Nagy, who had fallen foul with the team due to a lack of defensive play, to Dallas for Mathias Tjarnqvist and a 1st round draft pick. Tjarnqvist has 1 goal and 3 points in 8 games with the Dogs. They also sent winger Oleg Saprykin and a 7th round pick in 07 to Ottawa for a 2nd round pick in 08. Then, tough guy Georges Laraque went to Pittsburgh for a 3rd round pick in 08 and prospect Dan Carcillo. The last move was to send veteran center Yanic Perrault and an 08 5th round pick to Toronto for youngster for Brendan Bell and a 2nd rounder in 08. Bell has done ok, but only in 1 game. Phoenix is building towards the far future.
Pittsburgh- A team originally expected to be in the Flyers position, the SuperPens are on their way to the playoffs. They stayed quiet until deadline day, but then made a plethora of moves. They first acquired Gary Roberts from Florida for D-man Noah Welch. Roberts has scored a goal and two assists in 3 games with Pittsburgh. Then, Domininc Moore was sent to Minnesota for a 3rd round pick in 07. This was kind of a confusing move, as Moore was a key defensive player for the Pens. But, they did add a needed piece when Georges Laraque was added from Phoenix for a 08 3rd round pick and prospect Dan Carcillo. Laraque hasn't scored in his 3 games with Pittsburgh, but he provided his signature toughness against other teams. Joel Kwiatkowski was added from Florida to essentially replace Welch, and he cost a 4th rounder in 07. He hasn't played for Pittsburgh yet. Nolan Schaefer was added as a 3rd goalie in case Jocelyn Thibault goes down. The SuperPens should be in the playoffs this year.
San Jose- The Sharks are on their way to the playoffs once again. They traded Alexander Korolyuk and Jim Fahey to New Jersey for Vladimir Malakhov and a conditional pick. They then tried to get Korolyuk back from NJ for a conditional pick, but that trade was voided. They added Bill Guerin from San Jose for Ville Nieminen and prospect Jay Barriball, plus a 1st round pick in 07. Guerin has since played 3 games for San Jose, hasn't scored, but has a plus-4 rating and 7 shots. In response to losing the first-rounder, they dealt away prospect Nolan Schaefer for a 7th round pick in 07, and sent minor-leaguer Scott Parker to Colorado for a 6th rounder in 08. Despite a lack of moves, the Sharks are playing strong.
St. Louis- The Blues dealt away big names in order to build up for the future. Two days before the deadline, the Blues dealt Keith Tkachuk to Atlanta for Glen Metropolit, a 1st round draft pick in 07, a 3rd rounder in 07, a 2nd rounder in 08, and a conditional first rounder in 08. That's one heck of a draft the Blues will have. Metropolit has played 4 games for the Blues and gotten 1 assist. Then, Bill Guerin was dealt to San Jose for Ville Nieminen, a 1st rounder in 07, and prospect Jay Barriball. Neiminen has played 3 games without a point in a Blues uniform. Finally, Brad Boyes was added from Boston for young D-man Dennis Wideman. Boyes has 2 points in 3 games with the Blues. The Blues were shrewd, adding a lot of draft picks, but also adding players in case the draft failed.
Tampa Bay- The Lightning were restricted by the cap, but made small moves that should help. They traded Darren Reid, a depth player, to Philadelphia for prospect Daniel Corso. Corso is in the minors, and should make the jump soon. They also recieved two forward prospects from Atlanta, Kyle Wanvig and Stephen Baby, for depth players Andy Delmore and Andre Deveaux. Wanvig was in the minors with Atlanta, but has played four scoreless, but well played, games with Tampa. They traded goalie prospect Gerald Coleman and an 07 first round draft pick for Shane O'Brien and a third round pick. O'Brien has provided some much needed offense from the blueline, with an assist in 4 games. He also has 16 PIM's for an average of 4 per game with Tampa, so he helps on the physical side. They added Karl Stewart and a 6th round pick in 08 from Chicago for Nikita Alexeev. Stewart has been a energy guy on the fourth line, playing 3 games and getting 2 PIM's. Stewart could've tied an NHL record if he had played any games for Anahiem, as this is his 4th franchise that he is on the roster, but only the third team he has played games for. They sent minor league defenseman Doug O'Brien to Anahiem for Joe Rullier, but that move has yet to make an impact. A last trade sent a 5th round pick in 07 to L.A. for Jason Ward. Ward has also played for three franchises, and hasn't scored in three games with the Lightning. Tampa is in the push for a playoff spot, but a mistake could be costly.
Toronto- The Leafs didn't make a whole lot of moves. They sent goalie Mikael Tellqvist to Phoenix for Tyson Nash and a 4th round pick in 07, but Nash has remained in the minors. They made just one other move, acquiring Yanic Perrault and a 5th round pick in 08 from Phoenix for Brendan Bell and a 2nd round pick in 08. Perrault has provided some nice play, scoring one goals in 3 games. He also has a shootout goal. Will the Leafs ever be the same franchise?
Vancouver- The Canucks are doing a lot better than last year. They acquired prospect Drew McIntyre from Detroit for a conditional draft pick in 07, but their goaltending is already strong. They swapped prospects with Anahiem, sending Joe Rullier for Colby Gennoway, but that shouldn't make an impact for a while. They re-acquired Brent Sopel from Los Angeles, in return for a 2nd round pick in either 07 or 08, and a 4th round pick in 08. Sopel took the move in stride, getting his 20th assist for a point in four Canuck games. Bryan Smolinski was also added from Chicago for a 2nd round pick in 07, and he has also done well in his new uniform, getting 3 points in 4 games. The Canucks decided that they were tight after that, and they are on their way to the playoffs.
Washington- The Capitals made some surprising moves this year, in order to build up their future. They added youngster Milan Jurcina from Boston for a 4th round pick in 07. Jurcina has made a clear improvement to the blueline, scoring more points (4) in 15 games with Washington than he had (3) in 40 games with Boston. Oft-injured and under-producing winger Richard Zednik was sent to the New York Islanders for a 2nd round pick in 07. D-man Lawrence Nycholat was sent to Ottawa for prospect Andy Hedlund and a 6th round pick in 07. Dainius Zubrus, one of Alexander Ovechkin's good friends, was dealt to Buffalo with Timo Helbling for Jiri Novotny and a 1st round pick in 07. Novotny has a point in 3 games. They also sent defenseman Jamie Heward, an extra since John Erskine was signed by free agency, went to Los Angeles for a 5th round pick in 08. The Caps will have a good draft, but people might want results sooner rather than later.
This report was done over several days starting on the trade deadline, so the stats might be all different. I will write more later today, because I missed so much.
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