Random Thoughts

First off, I would like to say thank you to Chris of The NHL Arena Program for stepping in this weekend...

Where will Mats Sundin sign??
Montreal. I believe he’s going to drag this out into late August, and end up signing with the Habs. They give him the best shot to win the Cup. You put him on that roster, and the Canadiens are almost as good as the Wings (talent wise).
Where will Antoine Vermette end up??
I think Ottawa will be able to receive a 2nd round pick for Vermette. I’m going to say Atlanta will acquire him. They still need some forward depth, and would be willing to part with a high draft pick for him. Other teams to watch would be Vancouver, Minnesota, Chicago, Anaheim, and Florida.
Will Nikolai Khabibulin be traded??
In the end, I honestly think Chicago will hang on to him. The minute Cristobal Huet signed on with the ‘Hawks, GM Dale Tallon repeatedly stated that he will go with the two this season, even though they both have hefty contracts.
Will Mathieu Schneider be traded??
Yes… and to the Ottawa Senators. You very well could see a Schneider/Vermette swap here. If not, the Ducks would probably get a pick or prospect in return.
Who will be the next coach of the New York Islanders??
John Tortorella. This will likely happen this week. Torts’ interview went well with the Isles, and would be a good fit on the island. If things fall apart between the two, though, I think Joel Quenneville will be next in line.