'30 in 30' - Vancouver Canucks

2008/09 Recap-
Record: 45-27-10, 100 pts.
Playoffs: Lost to CHI in WCSF (4-2)

Key Additions: Mikael Samuelsson, Mathieu Schneider, Christian Ehrhoff, Brad Lukowich, Andrew Raycroft
Key Subtractions: Mats Sundin, Mattias Ohlund, Taylor Pyatt, Ossi Vaananen

X-Factor: Alex Burrows
His grit and tenacity will once again be key for the Canucks.
Breakout player: Cody Hodgson
Prospect to watch: Cody Hodgson
The #8 overall pick from last summer is poised to start the season in Vancouver and succeed.
On the hot seat: Sami Salo
With his injury history, this could be Salo’s make or break year with the club.

Fantasy Corner-
Buy: Roberto Luongo
Sell: Pavol Demitra
Sleeper: Alex Edler

Bold Prediction: Not only will Luongo win the Vezina Trophy, but he’ll also be in the discussion for the Hart.

Team Overview: The Canucks still have a bad taste in their mouth after a Game 6 loss in Chicago eliminated them. GM Mike Gillis waited until the 11th hour to re-sign the Sedin twins. He would not have been able to sign two other forwards with the same chemistry. Gillis was also able to bring in veterans Mikael Samuelsson and Mathieu Schneider, who should jell with the team quickly. Another new face on the horizon is Cody Hodgson, their 1st round pick from 2008. This could be a special season in VanCity if Luongo plays like he wants a ring.

Current 09/10 Prediction-
2nd in Northwest Division

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 17-20

Here are the final 4 rounds of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 17
1 (161). Chiarelli – Claude Giroux, RW
2 (162). Poile –Dave Bolland, C
3 (163). Lamoriello – Patrick Sharp, RW
4 (164). Burke – Jean-Sebastian Giguere, G
5 (165). Sather – Jose Theodore, G
6 (166). Snow – Tim Connolly, C
7 (167). Holland – Kris Versteeg, RW
8 (168). Shero – Brent Burns, D
9 (169). Wilson – Joe Pavelski, C
10 (170). Gainey – Chris Drury, C

Round 18
1 (171). Gainey– Christian Ehrhoff, D
2 (172). Wilson – Vesa Toskala, G
3 (173). Shero – Alex Tanguay, LW
4 (174). Holland – Joe Corvo, D
5 (175). Snow – Pavol Demitra, RW
6 (176). Sather – Drew Stafford, RW
7 (177). Burke – Mattias Ohlund, D
8 (178). Lamoriello – Kristian Huselius, LW
9 (179). Poile – Francois Beauchemin, D
10 (180). Chiarelli – Alexei Ponikarovsky, LW

Round 19
1 (181). Chiarelli – Matt Duchene, C
2 (182). Poile – Kyle Okposo, RW
3 (183). Lamoriello – Matt Niskanen, D
4 (184). Burke – James Neal, LW
5 (185). Sather – Filip Kuba, D
6 (186). Snow – James Wisniewski, D
7 (187). Holland – Matthew Lombardi, C
8 (188). Shero – Joni Pitkanen, D
9 (189). Wilson – Tuomo Ruutu, RW
10 (190). Gainey – Stephen Weiss, C

Round 20
1 (191). Gainey– Bill Guerin, RW
2 (192). Wilson – Victor Hedman, D
3 (193). Shero – Daniel Carcillo, RW
4 (194). Holland – Tuukka Rask, G
5 (195). Snow – Fedor Tyutin, D
6 (196). Sather – Sam Gagner, C
7 (197). Burke – Pascal Leclaire, G
8 (198). Lamoriello – Patrik Berglund, G
9 (199). Poile – Kyle Quincey, D
10 (200). Chiarelli – Chris Campoli, D

The rest of the ‘big 3’ from this summer’s draft were selected on Day 7 of our fantasy mock draft. Duchene went to Chiarelli in the 19th round, while Wilson snagged Hedman in the last round. A plethora of other youngsters were also picked, including Giroux, Okposo, Neal, Gagner, Berglund, and Quincey. The steal of the day goes to Ray Shero, hands down, for taking a gamble on Tanguay in the 18th round (he was still a UFA at the time of the draft).

Well that concludes our fantasy hockey feature here at the RLD's Fantasy Corner! I hope you enjoyed the coverage over the past month to hold you over until real hockey starts up!

AM Video Fix!

Canucks' top moment of the playoffs


Sundin returns to Toronto with a bang!


A nice in-arena video intro...

'30 in 30' starts tomorrow!

RLD Readers,

Starting tomorrow, our 09/10 season preview will officially begin (FINALLY!!!). Just for your own leisure, here is the schedule for the feature, leading up to opening night on October 1…

August 31: Canucks
September 1: Senators
September 2: Hurricanes
September 3: Maple Leafs
September 4: Flyers
September 5: Kings
September 6: Wild
September 7: Capitals
September 8: Blue Jackets
September 9: Bruins
September 10: Blues
September 11: Rangers
September 12: Red Wings
September 13: Stars
September 14: Panthers
September 15: Oilers
September 16: Predators
September 17: Thrashers
September 18: Canadiens
September 19: Blackhawks
September 20: Devils
September 21: Avalanche
September 22: Sharks
September 23: Flames
September 24: Lightning
September 25: Ducks
September 26: Penguins
September 27: Coyotes
September 28: Islanders
September 29: Sabres
September 30: Awards & Predictions

Note: Our AM Video Fix will have videos from our featured team each day.
---

Reminder:
One of the reasons why it’s been slow here at the RLD is that I am constantly working on the big ‘magazine look-a-like’ preview. I did this last year, but cannot post it on here because Blogger is so limited. Sign up now to receive the season preview (PDF format) in your e-mail inbox in September. Just drop your e-mail address in the comment box below or e-mail me (rldhockey@gmail.com) to guarantee your copy. It is 100% free, and will potentially have 90 pages of previews for this upcoming season. Thanks!!

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 13-16

Here are rounds 13 through 16 of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 13
1 (121). Chiarelli – Chris Osgood, G
2 (122). Poile – Ryan Smyth, LW
3 (123). Lamoriello – Milan Lucic, LW
4 (124). Burke – Mike Knuble, RW
5 (125). Sather – Jamie Langenbrunner, RW
6 (126). Snow – Slava Kozlov, LW
7 (127). Holland – J.P. Dumont, RW
8 (128). Shero – Andy McDonald, C
9 (129). Wilson – Alexander Burrows, LW
10 (130). Gainey – Jonathan Quick, G

Round 14
1 (131). Gainey– Jason Blake, LW
2 (132). Wilson – Saku Koivu, C
3 (133). Shero – Martin Biron, G
4 (134). Holland – Alexander Edler, D
5 (135). Snow – Paul Kariya, LW
6 (136). Sather – Milan Michalek, LW
7 (137). Burke – Jason Pominville, RW
8 (138). Lamoriello – Ilya Bryzgalov, G
9 (139). Poile – Bryan McCabe, D
10 (140). Chiarelli – Tom Gilbert, D

Round 15
1 (141). Chiarelli – Kris Letang, D
2 (142). Poile – Mike Smith, G
3 (143). Lamoriello – Michael Ryder, RW
4 (144). Burke – Jason Arnott, C
5 (145). Sather – Jaroslav Spacek, D
6 (146). Snow – Shawn Horcoff, C
7 (147). Holland – Ryan Malone, LW
8 (148). Shero – Blake Wheeler, RW
9 (149). Wilson – Chris Kunitz, RW
10 (150). Gainey – Kimmo Timonen, D

Round 16
1 (151). Gainey– Milan Hejduk, RW
2 (152). Wilson – Ed Jovanovski, D
3 (153). Shero – T.J. Oshie, C
4 (154). Holland – Dwayne Roloson, G
5 (155). Snow – John-Michael Liles, D
6 (156). Sather – Bryan Little, C
7 (157). Burke – Drew Doughty, D
8 (158). Lamoriello – Ryan Whitney, D
9 (159). Poile – Nathan Horton, RW
10 (160). Chiarelli – Ryan Kesler, C

On Day 6 of our fantasy mock draft, 6 GMs drafted a 3rd goalie as part of a last ditch effort to solidify the position before the talent pool runs dry. In addition, Ray Shero grabbed youngsters Blake Wheeler and T.J. Oshie, while Bob Gainey went for experienced vets Jason Blake and Milan Hejduk. The steal of the day goes to David Poile getting Nathan Horton at the end of the 16th round. Stay tuned for the final four rounds tomorrow…

AM Video Fix!

Nice plays from the '04 playoffs!


The Isles & Leafs playing in the playoffs?? Who knew!

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 9-12

Here are rounds 9 through 12 of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 9
1 (81). Chiarelli – Ryan Suter, D
2 (82). Poile – Brad Richards, C
3 (83). Lamoriello – Dustin Brown, LW
4 (84). Burke – Craig Anderson, G
5 (85). Sather – Jason Spezza, C
6 (86). Snow – John Tavares, C
7 (87). Holland – David Krejci, C
8 (88). Shero – Erik Johnson, D
9 (89). Wilson – Ales Hemsky, RW
10 (90). Gainey – Brian Gionta, RW

Round 10
1 (91). Gainey – Duncan Keith, D
2 (92). Wilson – Daniel Briere, C
3 (93). Shero – Devin Setoguchi, RW
4 (94). Holland – Johan Franzen, RW
5 (95). Snow – Loui Eriksson, LW
6 (96). Sather – Marian Hossa, RW
7 (97). Burke – Travis Zajac, C
8 (98). Lamoriello – Kevin Bieksa, D
9 (99). Poile – Alexander Frolov, RW
10 (100). Chiarelli – Chris Mason, G

Round 11
1 (101). Chiarelli – Paul Stastny, C
2 (102). Poile – Phil Kessel, RW
3 (103). Lamoriello – Teemu Selanne, RW
4 (104). Burke – Patrik Elias, LW
5 (105). Sather – Rob Blake, D
6 (106). Snow – Niklas Kronwall, D
7 (107). Holland – Mikko Koivu, C
8 (108). Shero – David Booth, LW
9 (109). Wilson – Marek Zidlicky, D
10 (110). Gainey – Pavel Kubina, D

Round 12
1 (111). Gainey – Derick Brassard, C
2 (112). Wilson – Ray Whitney, LW
3 (113). Shero – Denis Grebeshkov, D
4 (114). Holland – Cam Barker, D
5 (115). Snow – Joffrey Lupul, RW
6 (116). Sather – Scott Gomez, C
7 (117). Burke – Nik Antropov, RW
8 (118). Lamoriello – Derek Roy, C
9 (119). Poile – Zach Bogosian, D
10 (120). Chiarelli – Steve Sullivan, RW

Several high risk/high reward players were selected on day 5 of our fantasy mock draft. Snow fittingly drafted John Tavares in the 9th round, Sather selected the injured Marian Hossa in the 10th round, and Poile took a stab at Phil Kessel in the 11th round. Shero grabbed two young defensemen with great upside (Erik Johnson and Denis Grebeshkov), but the steal of the day goes to Peter Chiarelli (Paul Stastny). Stay tuned for rounds 13-16 tomorrow...

This Day In Hockey History (8/29)

Thanks, Chris!!

Saturday on This Day and we have a strange trade that involves compensation and probably a heavy amount of alcohol consumed. To think this happened in the mid 70's. Cue up Leisure Suit Larry and let's hit the Time Warp too.



And yet after this...he became a Ranger later.

August 29, 1974

---

St. Louis Blues traded Greg Polis to the NY Rangers, in exchange for Larry Sacharuk and the Rangers' first choice in 1977 Amateur Draft. The draft choice was later returned to N.Y. in acquisition of Derek Sanderson on October 30, 1975.

AM Video Fix!

What the Lightning are getting in Tanguay...


What the Canucks are getting in Schneider...

Alex Tanguay going to Tampa!

The deal: Terms TBA
Finally, Mr. Tanguay makes a decision!! Although nothing is ‘official’, you can mark in pen that Alex Tanguay will be with Tampa Bay this season. The terms of the deal are undisclosed, but it is expected to be a 1 or 2-year deal. For the last couple weeks, it has seemed like it was down to the Bolts and Wild for Tanguay’s services. One reason why it took so long for a team to sign him is because of his shoulder injury late last year, and teams were hesitant to make such a commitment.

This is probably where Tanguay fits best, as I stated in this blog not too long ago. He can play either with Lecavalier or Stamkos, and would be a great go-to-guy for both centers. Tanguay should help their power play, too, as 16 of his 41 points from a year ago came on the man advantage.

GM Brian Lawton deserves a round of applause, and this finally justifies the Vinny Prospal buyout. You can put Tampa squarely on the playoff bubble, sitting in that 7-12 range right now.

Vancouver upgrades its blue line

Today, Vancouver signed Mathieu Schenider, and traded for Christian Ehrhoff and Brad Lukowich for a couple prospects. Wow, did they just get better on the back end! Not that Schneider, Ehrhoff, and Lukowich would have been headline worthy acquisitions individually. But for GM Mike Gillis to get ALL three at the same time… that deserves a pat on the back. They went from having Aaron Rome and Lawrence Nycholat as their depth guys to having eight d-men worthy of ice-time.

This is how their defense looks after today’s moves:
Pairing #1- Sami Salo & Kevin Bieksa
Pairing #2- Schneider & Willie Mitchell
Pairing #3- Ehrhoff & Alex Edler
Depth- Shane O’Brien, Lukowich, Rome, Nycholat

Schneider helps out the Canucks’ man advantage considerably, and would be able to take Alex Edler under his wing. Schneider posted solid numbers in 23 games with the Canadiens late last year (17 pts, 23 games). I think they needed a veteran presence like him, and it’ll pay dividends for sure.

Ehrhoff was a bit of a head case last year, and was really streaky offensively. But he did have a career-high in points (42), and was solid on the power play. He may benefit from a change of scenery, too, as he faded down the stretch and in the playoffs. Between him and Schneider, Gillis really bolstered the power play.

And then there’s Brad Lukowich, who has two Stanley Cup rings and a lot of experience. He played in 58 games with the Sharks last year, and was a +5 with 8 points. He’s reliable in his own end, and should bring a good locker room presence.

Vancouver sure boosted their club today with 3 additions to their blue line. Their defensive corps has suddenly become one of the deepest in the league. It’s clearly just a two-horse race in the Northwest now between the Canucks and Flames. I’m having a hard time picking a winner for it.
---

On San Jose’s side of things… this is a no-brainer. They’re clearing room for a bigger acquisition. Between Ehrhoff and Lukowich, GM Doug Wilson was able to get nearly $5 million off his books. That’s right in the range of Phil Kessel’s asking price. I would not be surprised if this was a stepping stone to another deal, whether it’s for Kessel or not.

Their defense took a hit in this trade, though, and there are not many options out there to replace Ehrhoff and/or Lukowich. Right now, after the big three of Boyle, Blake, and Vlasic, San Jose has Douglas Murray, Kent Huskins, and Derek Joslin. Prospect Nick Petrecki is also in the mix, but is a year away from being ready.

All I know is that Wilson is not done here…

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 7-8

Here are rounds 7 and 8 of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 7
1 (61). Chiarelli – David Backes, RW
2 (62). Poile – Marc-Andre Fleury, G
3 (63). Lamoriello – Mike Ribeiro, C
4 (64). Burke – Alexei Kovalev, RW
5 (65). Sather – Brian Campbell, D
6 (66). Snow – Tomas Kaberle, D
7 (67). Holland – Dennis Wideman, D
8 (68). Shero – Brad Boyes, RW
9 (69). Wilson – Michael Cammaleri, LW
10 (70). Gainey – Olli Jokinen, C

Round 8
1 (71). Gainey – Nikolai Khabibulin, G
2 (72). Wilson – Cristobal Huet, G
3 (73). Shero – Carey Price, G
4 (74). Holland – Tomas Vokoun, G
5 (75). Snow – Ray Emery, G
6 (76). Sather – Marty Turco, G
7 (77). Burke – Lubomir Visnovsky, D
8 (78). Lamoriello – Pekka Rinne, G
9 (79). Poile – Patrick Marleau, LW
10 (80). Chiarelli – Scott Hartnell, LW

A string of goalies came off the board on Day 4 of our fantasy mock draft, as 8 GMs grabbed their 2nd or 3rd goalie. This is typical in fantasy drafts, as their is a considerable drop off in value after the top 15-20 goalies. Peter Chiarelli drafted smart, locking up two Fantasy Corner "More Bang for Your Buck" guys with Backes and Hartnell. Both are notorious for racking up the penalty minutes. Stay tuned for rounds 9-12 tomorrow...

This Day In Hockey History (8/28)

Thanks, Chris!

Simply thank god it is Friday! Got a special Brass Bonanza like moment for everyone but probably not quite the one people were expecting. Video then moment as always.



Bobby Holik clutch goal...who knew?

August 28, 1992

---

Hartford Whalers traded Bobby Holik and a future draft pick to New Jersey in exchange for goalie Sean Burke and defenseman Eric Weinrich.

AM Video Fix!

These will forever give me chills!

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 5-6

Here are rounds 5 and 6 of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 5
1 (41). Chiarelli – Dion Phaneuf, D
2 (42). Poile – Brian Rafalski, D
3 (43). Lamoriello – Daniel Alfredsson, RW
4 (44). Burke – Daniel Sedin, LW
5 (45). Sather – Steve Mason, G
6 (46). Snow – Sheldon Souray, D
7 (47). Holland – Ryan Miller, G
8 (48). Shero – Jonas Hiller, G
9 (49). Wilson – Shane Doan, RW
10 (50). Gainey – Dany Heatley, LW

Round 6
1 (51). Gainey – Thomas Vanek, LW
2 (52). Wilson – Mark Streit, D
3 (53). Shero – Jay Bouwmeester, D
4 (54). Holland – Brenden Morrow, LW
5 (55). Snow – Simon Gagne, LW
6 (56). Sather – Sergei Gonchar, D
7 (57). Burke – Steven Stamkos, C
8 (58). Lamoriello – Chris Pronger, D
9 (59). Poile – Henrik Sedin, C
10 (60). Chiarelli – Anze Kopitar, C

Day 3 of our mock draft saw seven defensemen come off the board, along with the Sedin twins. In addition, Sophomores Steve Mason and Steven Stamkos were selected ahead of several players ranked higher than them at their respective positions by the RLD's Fantasy Corner. Bob Gainey got two potential steals with Heatley and Vanek on the turn-around. Stay tuned for rounds 7-8 tomorrow...

Filling out some roster spots

Some teams still have glaring needs, and here are some suggestions for them.

Florida Panthers
Need: Defenseman
Why not a guy like… Dmitri Kalinin?
Kalinin didn’t have his best season in the 08/09 campaign, splitting it between New York and Phoenix. But he proved in his days with Buffalo that he can be a solid defenseman. He wouldn’t be asked to play any significant ice time, and could help shore up a blue line with a couple of holes.

Minnesota Wild
Need: Top-6 forward
Why not a guy like… Alex Tanguay?
I know this seems like an obvious choice, but it’d be a good fit. Tanguay’s price has reportedly come down steadily since July 1, and the Wild could use another goal-scorer. He would thrive under new coach Todd Richards.

Nashville Predators
Need: Veteran defenseman
Why not a guy like… Dennis Seidenberg?
Seidenberg maybe played the best hockey of his career during Carolina’s playoff run this past spring. I understand he’s been in the minus column most of his career, but he hasn’t been on many good teams. Nashville needs a veteran to glue the blue line together, and Seidenberg could be a steal at a cheap price.

New Jersey Devils
Need: Center
Why not a guy like… Manny Malhotra?
The Devils need another center, and I think Malhotra would be a good fit. He was a solid 25-35 point/season pivot for the Jackets the last 5 years, and even saw time on the top line with Rick Nash this past year. I’m surprised Malhotra is still around, and Lou Lamoriello should look into signing him.

New York Rangers
Need: Defenseman
Why not a guy like… Marc-Andre Bergeron?
By my count, the Blueshirts are short one d-man. There were reports a couple weeks that they had signed Francis Bouillon, but I guess it was a false alarm. Bergeron would be a good pickup for the Rangers, and could help out their god-awful power play.

Tampa Bay Lightning
Need: Top-6 forward
Why not a guy like… Maxim Afinogenov?
I know this probably sounds crazy… but it’s for argument’s sake. Afinogenov would bring something their offense needs: creativity. He may be a head case, but Tampa’s ownership is the same way – so why not!? He could play better next to a budding star like Stamkos.

Vancouver Canucks
Need: Offensive defenseman
Why not a guy like… Mathieu Schneider?
To me, the Canucks are one piece away from being a true Cup contender. Could Schneider be that missing piece?? Vancouver doesn’t have a true power play quarterback (Alex Edler is the closest thing). Schneider could improve their power play, and coach up the young Edler at the same time. This potential signing (which is reportedly close) would be a win-win for both parties.

AM Video Fix!

Sarich smashes Marleau!


Orpik's 4-hit barrage vs. Detroit!

It's on like Donkey Kong!

After yesterday’s happenings with the Coyotes situation, it appears it is a two-horse race to purchase the franchise in bankruptcy court… The NHL and Jim Balsillie. ‘Ice Edge’ is also in the mix, and others may bid before the auction (Sept. 10), too. Balsillie’s most recent bid was $212.5 million, contingent on moving the team to Hamilton for the 2010/11 season. The league’s bid, amount wise, was not revealed – but it’s going to be far less than Balsillie’s proposal. I'm still under the belief that Balsillie will not get this team, and that his foolish behavior towards the NHL will ultimately cost him. We'll see what happens...

For some of the best coverage on this ongoing mess, please visit these sites/blogs:
Save the Coyotes
Five for Howling
PredsOnTheGlass
Yahoo! Puck Daddy

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 3-4

Here are rounds 3 and 4 of our ongoing fantasy mock draft...

Round 3
1 (21). Chiarelli – Niklas Backstrom, G
2 (22). Poile – Shea Weber, D
3 (23). Lamoriello – Henrik Lundqvist, G
4 (24). Burke – Andrei Markov, D
5 (25). Sather – Alexander Semin, LW
6 (26). Snow – Miikka Kiprusoff, G
7 (27). Holland – Dan Boyle, D
8 (28). Shero – Corey Perry, RW
9 (29). Wilson – Marc Savard, C
10 (30). Gainey – Nicklas Backstrom, C

Round 4
1 (31). Gainey – Cam Ward, G
2 (32). Wilson – Zdeno Chara, D
3 (33). Shero – Eric Staal, C
4 (34). Holland – Vincent Lecavalier, C
5 (35). Snow – Evgeni Nabokov, G
6 (36). Sather – Marian Gaborik, RW
7 (37). Burke – Mike Richards, C
8 (38). Lamoriello – Henrik Zetterberg, LW
9 (39). Poile - Bobby Ryan, RW
10 (40). Chiarelli – Jonathan Toews, C

On day 2 of our mock draft, Burke snagged his 2nd top five fantasy defenseman (Niedermayer and Markov), while Snow loaded up at the goalie position with Kipper and Nabby. Sather got the steal of the day with Alexander Semin in the middle of the 3rd round. Stay tuned for rounds 5-6 tomorrow!

This Day In Hockey History (8/26)

Thanks, Chris!!

Throughout the summer, This Day rolls on. Today is hump day and no exception. We have a moment and video to share and here it goes.



A nice goal but a hefty price for Wesley...

August 26, 1994

---

Hartford Whalers obtained defenseman Glen Wesley from the Boston Bruins, in exchange for their #1 Draft Choices in 1995, 1996, and 1997.

AM Video Fix!

Balsillie-related video from 2+ weeks ago...


Tutorials for NHL10!

Fantasy Corner: Mock Draft Rds 1-2

There will be a new fantasy feature at the RLD for the next 7 days... a full 20-round mock draft! The draft will consistent of 10 teams, each one drafted by an NHL GM. The personalities and tendencies of the individual GMs will show somewhat in their drafting styles (ex: David Poile will be smart & conservatvie, Bob Gainey will be dumb & aggressive). But don't read into that too much, as each is drafting to win a fantasy championship! Here are the first 2 rounds...

Round 1
1 (1). Peter Chiarelli (BOS) - Alex Ovechkin, LW
2 (2). David Poile (NSH) - Evgeni Malkin, C
3 (3). Lou Lamoriello (NJD) - Sidney Crosby, C
4 (4). Brian Burke (TOR) - Roberto Luongo, G
5 (5). Glen Sather (NYR) - Ryan Getzlaf, C
6 (6). Garth Snow (NYI) - Pavel Datsyuk, C
7 (7). Ken Holland (DET) - Jarome Iginla, RW
8 (8). Ray Shero (PIT) - Ilya Kovalchuk, LW
9 (9). Doug Wilson (SJS) - Joe Thornton, C
10 (10). Bob Gainey (MTL) - Mike Green, D

Round 2
1 (11). Gainey - Martin St. Louis, RW
2 (12). Wilson - Tim Thomas, G
3 (13). Shero - Jeff Carter, C
4 (14). Holland - Zach Parise, LW
5 (15). Snow - Martin Havlat, RW
6 (16). Sather - Rick Nash, LW
7 (17). Burke -Scott Niedermayer, D
8 (18). Lamoriello - Nicklas Lidstrom, D
9 (19). Poile - Martin Brodeur, G
10 (20). Chiarelli - Patrick Kane, RW

As will be the case in most drafts, AO, Malkin, and Crosby go 1, 2, 3. It's pretty much a crap shoot for the rest of the first round, as any of those players could fall in spots 4-10. The conservative GMs took a waiver on Kane at the end of the 2nd round, but Chiarelli may have gotten the biggest steal of Day 1 at 20th overall. Stay tuned for rounds 3-4 tomorrow!

This Day In Hockey History (8/25)

Thanks, Chris!

Let's get a bit sentimental and welcome back Chris...not me of course to New Jersey.



Amazing save there Chris!!!! Moment time.

August 25, 1998

---

New Jersey Devils re-acquired goaltender Chris Terreri from the Chicago Blackhawks, in exchange for a conditional pick in the 1999 NHL Draft.

AM Video Fix!

Canada wins gold in 2002...


Frantic finish in '09 World Juniors Semis...

Fantasy Corner: Western Conf. Team Reports

Anaheim Ducks
Buy: Ryan Getzlaf, C
Sell: Jean-Sebastian Giguere, G
Sleeper: Joffrey Lupul, LW

Calgary Flames
Buy: Jarome Iginla, LW
Sell: Daymond Langkow, C
Sleeper: David Moss, RW

Chicago Blackhawks
Buy: Jonathan Toews, C
Sell: Marian Hossa, RW
Sleeper: Jack Skille, RW

Colorado Avalanche
Buy: Paul Stastny, C
Sell: John-Michael Liles, D
Sleeper: Craig Anderson, G

Columbus Blue Jackets
Buy: Rick Nash, LW
Sell: R.J. Umberger, LW
Sleeper: Antoine Vermette, C

Dallas Stars
Buy: Brad Richards, C
Sell: Jere Lehtinen, RW
Sleeper: James Neal, LW

Detroit Red Wings
Buy: Pavel Datsyuk, C
Sell: Chris Osgood, G
Sleeper: Jason Williams, RW

Edmonton Oilers
Buy: Sheldon Souray, D
Sell: Dustin Penner, LW
Sleeper: Denis Grebeshkov, D

Los Angeles Kings
Buy: Anze Kopitar, C
Sell: Jonathan Quick, G
Sleeper: Drew Doughty, D

Minnesota Wild
Buy: Niklas Backstrom, G
Sell: Pierre-Marc Bouchard, C
Sleeper: James Sheppard, C

Nashville Predators
Buy: Shea Weber, D
Sell: David Legwand, C
Sleeper: Ryan Jones, RW

Phoenix Coyotes
Buy: Shane Doan, RW
Sell: Ed Jovanovski, D
Sleeper: Radim Vrbata, RW

St. Louis Blues
Buy: David Backes, RW
Sell: Chris Mason, G
Sleeper: Erik Johnson, D

San Jose Sharks
Buy: Dan Boyle, D
Sell: Jonathan Cheechoo, RW
Sleeper: Ryane Clowe, RW

Vancouver Canucks
Buy: Roberto Luongo, G
Sell: Pavol Demitra, RW
Sleeper: Alexander Edler, D

'30 in 30' look-ahead

One week from today, our 09/10 season preview will officially begin (FINALLY!!!). Just for your own leisure, here is the schedule for the feature, leading up to opening night on October 1…

August 31: Canucks
September 1: Senators
September 2: Hurricanes
September 3: Maple Leafs
September 4: Flyers
September 5: Kings
September 6: Wild
September 7: Capitals
September 8: Blue Jackets
September 9: Bruins
September 10: Blues
September 11: Rangers
September 12: Red Wings
September 13: Stars
September 14: Panthers
September 15: Oilers
September 16: Predators
September 17: Thrashers
September 18: Canadiens
September 19: Blackhawks
September 20: Devils
September 21: Avalanche
September 22: Sharks
September 23: Flames
September 24: Lightning
September 25: Ducks
September 26: Penguins
September 27: Coyotes
September 28: Islanders
September 29: Sabres
September 30: Awards & Predictions

This Day In Hockey History (8/24)

Thanks, Chris!

Remember in Blazing Saddles when Mel Brooks (playing the Governor) kept lamenting his paddle ball toy was "defective". Well speaking of defections....we had this one err two on this day just 29 years ago.



Defections at work......

August 24, 1980

---

Peter Stastny, his brother Anton, and Peter's wife Darina left the national team of Czechoslovakia at Innsbruck, Austria, after a 4-3 loss to the USSR. They left at midnight and defected to Canada.

AM Video Fix!

Hating on R.J. Umberger...

Fantasy Corner: Eastern Conf. Team Reports

Atlanta Thrashers
Buy: Ilya Kovalchuk, LW
Sell: Ron Hainsey, D
Sleeper: Rich Peverley, C

Boston Bruins
Buy: Marc Savard, C
Sell: Patrice Bergeron, C
Sleeper: Tuuka Rask, G

Buffalo Sabres
Buy: Thomas Vanek, LW
Sell: Jason Pominville, RW
Sleeper: Nathan Gerbe, C

Carolina Hurricanes
Buy: Eric Staal, C
Sell: Rod Brind’Amour, C
Sleeper: Joe Corvo, D

Florida Panthers
Buy: David Booth, LW
Sell: Cory Stillman, RW
Sleeper: Shawn Matthias, C

Montreal Canadiens
Buy: Andrei Markov, D
Sell: Mike Cammalleri, LW
Sleeper: Matt D’Agostini, RW

New Jersey Devils
Buy: Zach Parise, LW
Sell: Patrick Elias, C
Sleeper: Nicklas Bergfors, RW

New York Islanders
Buy: Kyle Okposo, RW
Sell: John Tavares, C
Sleeper: Martin Biron, G

New York Rangers
Buy: Henrik Lundqvist, G
Sell: Chris Drury, C
Sleeper: Artem Anisimov, C

Ottawa Senators
Buy: Alexei Kovalev, RW
Sell: Pascal Leclaire, G
Sleeper: Nick Foligno, LW

Philadelphia Flyers
Buy: Jeff Carter, C
Sell: Kimmon Timonen, D
Sleeper: James van Riemsdyk, LW

Pittsburgh Penguins
Buy: Evgeni Malkin, C
Sell: Jordan Staal, C
Sleeper: Kris Letang, D

Tampa Bay Lightning
Buy: Vincent Lecavalier, C
Sell: Andrej Meszaros, D
Sleeper: Ryan Malone, LW

Toronto Maple Leafs
Buy: Tomas Kaberle, D
Sell: Mike Komisarek, D
Sleeper: Nikolai Kulemin, LW

Washington Capitals
Buy: Alex Ovechkin, LW
Sell: Jose Theodore, G
Sleeper: Tomas Fleichmann, LW

09/10 Preview Reminder

Reminder, RLD readers...

One of the reasons why it’s been slow here at the RLD is that I am constantly working on the big ‘magazine look-a-like’ preview. I did this last year, but cannot post it on here because Blogger is so limited. Sign up now to receive the season preview (PDF format) in your e-mail inbox in September. Just drop your e-mail address in the comment box below or e-mail me (rldhockey@gmail.com) to guarantee your copy. It is 100% free, and will potentially have 90 pages of previews for this upcoming season.

Sidenote: We'll start our '30-in-30' feature on August 31, which is remarkably just 8 days away!!! The season will be here before you know it. DROP THE PUCK!

Fantasy Corner: Goalies 21-40

21. Jonathan Quick, LAK (Age: 23)
’08-‘09 Stats: 21-18-2, 2.48 GAA, .914 SV%, 4 SO
3-Year Average: 21-18-2, 2.48 GAA, .914 SV%, 4 SO*
Note: Quick performed well in his first NHL season in ’08-’09. He could be a fantasy sleeper on an improved Kings team in ’09-’10.

22. Chris Osgood, DET (Age: 36)
’08-‘09 Stats: 26-9-8, 3.09 GAA, .887 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 21-7-6, 2.52 GAA, .903 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Osgood was shaky at best in the regular season in ’08-’09. He posted a sparkling 2.01 GAA and .926 SV% in the postseason, though.

23. Craig Anderson, COL (Age: 28)
’08-‘09 Stats: 15-7-5, 2.71 GAA, .924 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 8-5-2, 2.39 GAA, .930 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Anderson has been a solid backup in Florida and will have a chance to prove himself as a #1 goalie in Colorado.

24. Mike Smith, TBL (Age: 26)
’08-‘09 Stats: 14-18-9, 2.62 GAA, .916 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 14-14-4, 2.53 GAA, .910 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Smith has yet to prove that he can be a reliable fantasy goalie. He should benefit from the Bolts’ additions of Ohlund and Hedman, however.

25. Ilya Bryzgalov, PHX (Age: 29)
’08-‘09 Stats: 26-31-6, 2.98 GAA, .906 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 21-21-6, 2.63 GAA, .911 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Bryzgalov has recorded at least 25 wins in each of the past two seasons. He should do so again in ’09-’10, despite playing on a below-average Phoenix team.

26. Vesa Toskala, TOR (Age: 32)
’08-‘09 Stats: 22-17-11, 3.26 GAA, .891 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 27-17-6, 2.78 GAA, .901 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Toskala posted by far the worst GAA of his career in ’08-’09. He also failed to record a .900 SV% for the first time.

27. Martin Biron, NYI (Age: 32)
’08-‘09 Stats: 29-19-5, 2.76 GAA, .915 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 26-17-5, 2.79 GAA, .912 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Biron’s fantasy value is on the decline, as he went from the starting goalie on a playoff team to the 1B option for one of the NHL’s worst.

28. Jose Theodore, WSH (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 32-17-5, 2.87 GAA, .900 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 24-18-3, 2.86 GAA, .900 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Theodore faded down the stretch last season and was replaced by Simeon Varlamov after the first playoff game. He is on the hot seat in Washington this year.

29. Dwayne Roloson, NYI (Age: 39)
’08-‘09 Stats: 28-24-9, 2.77 GAA, .915 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 23-25-7, 2.86 GAA, .908 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Roloson is getting up there in age and is part of a crowded net on the Island with Biron and DiPietro in the fold.

30. Pascal Leclaire, OTT (Age: 26)
’08-‘09 Stats: 4-6-1, 3.83 GAA, .867 SV%, 0 SO
3-Year Average: 11-13-3, 3.02 GAA, .894 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Leclaire proved his doubters right in ’08-‘09, as his ’07-’08 numbers seem to have been a fluke (24 W, 2.25 GAA, .919 SV%, 9 SO). Despite an awful season a year ago, Leclaire still has fantasy value as the starting goalie in Ottawa.

31. Jean-Sebastian Giguere, ANA (Age: 32)
’08-‘09 Stats: 19-18-6, 3.10 GAA, .900 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 30-15-7, 2.49 GAA, .913 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Giguere’s fantasy value plummeted with the emergence of Hiller last season. He can still be a solid backup or 1B option if Hiller falters.

32. Tuukka Rask, BOS (Age: 22)
’08-‘09 Stats: 1-0-0, 0.00 GAA, 1.000 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 2-1-0, 2.46 GAA, .919 SV%, 1 SO**
Note: Rask posted a 35 save shutout in his lone NHL start in ’08-’09. He will backup Thomas in net for the B’s in what should be his first full NHL season.

33. Scott Clemmensen, FLA (Age: 32)
’08-‘09 Stats: 25-13-1, 2.39 GAA, .917 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 9-5-1, 3.14 GAA, .882 SV%, 1 SO
Note: Clemmesnen was exceptional last season filling in for the injured Brodeur. He will return to a backup role with Florida in ’09-’10, however.

34. Kari Lehtonen, ATL (Age: 25)
’08-‘09 Stats: 19-22-3, 3.06 GAA, .911 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 23-23-6, 2.92 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO
Note: The 2nd overall pick in the 2002 draft has not come close to living up to his draft slot. He has not posted a GAA below 2.75 in his career.

35. Ty Conklin, STL (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 25-11-2, 2.51 GAA, .909 SV%, 6 SO
3-Year Average: 15-7-3, 2.77 GAA, .901 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Conklin posted the best numbers of his career in ’08-’09, thanks to Chris Osgood’s struggles. He will be with his 6th different team in the past five seasons in ’09-’10.

36. Jaroslav Halak, MTL (Age: 24)
’08-‘09 Stats: 18-14-1, 2.86 GAA, .915 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 10-7-1, 2.80 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO
Note: Halak was a solid backup to Price in ’08-’09. He will only warrant serious fantasy consideration if Price gets hurt or plays poorly, though.

37. Alex Auld, DAL (Age: 28)
’08-‘09 Stats: 16-8-7, 2.47 GAA, .911 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 12-15-6, 2.83 GAA, .902 SV%, 1 SO
Note: If Turco fails to bounce back from a poor season a year ago, Auld could see similar minutes to last season (43 GP, 38 GS).

38. Peter Budaj, COL (Age: 27)
’08-‘09 Stats: 20-29-5, 2.86 GAA, .899 SV%, 2 SO
3-Year Average: 22-18-5, 2.70 GAA, .902 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Budaj will be relegated to backup duties with the Avs’ addition of Craig Anderson.

39. Josh Harding, MIN (Age: 25)
’08-‘09 Stats: 3-9-1, 2.21 GAA, .929 SV%, 0 SO
3-Year Average: 7-12-2, 2.58 GAA, .919SV%, 1 SO**
Note: Harding doesn’t get much playing time in Minnesota, but he makes the most of it when he does get in there. He could be a great fantasy pickup if Backstrom gets injured or plays poorly.

40. Simeon Varlamov, WSH (Age: 21)
’08-‘09 Stats: 4-0-0, 2.37 GAA, .918 SV%, 0 SO
3-Year Average: 4-0-0, 2.37 GAA, .918 SV%, 0 SO*
Note: Varlamov played out of his mind against the Rangers in the first round of the playoffs last season. The young netminder began to spiral out of control a bit against the Pens, which could make the Capitals’ hesitant to declare him the starter.

5 Young Goalies to Keep An Eye On:
Brian Elliott, OTT (Age: 24)
Corey Crawford, CHI (Age: 24)
Jonas Gustavsson, TOR (Age: 24)
Jonathan Bernier, LAK (Age: 21)
Ondrej Pavelec, ATL (Age: 22)

AM Video Fix!

Ovie goals (from 03/08)


NHL 2k10 trailer... who would buy this over NHL10?

A 10-team race for the Cup?

As I look ahead to predicting a Stanley Cup winner for this upcoming season, 10 teams keep popping into my head. There is so much parity (as of now) at the top, it’s impossible to decide on just one. No disrespect to the other 20 teams, but here are the 10 that I think are head-above-shoulders everyone else…

Anaheim
Boston
Calgary
Chicago
Detroit
Philadelphia
Pittsburgh
San Jose
Vancouver
Washington

Each week leading up to the season, I’ll eliminate 2 teams from this group to determine my Cup pick. Let’s go ahead and look at a quick rundown for these teams…

Anaheim
Though they lost Chris Pronger, GM Bob Murray re-loaded the offense and farm system. Acquisitions Joffrey Lupul and Saku Koivu will play big roles on the Ducks’ 2nd line, and prospects Luca Sbisa and Kyle Palmieri (26th overall) help re-stock a farm system that was starting to run dry. Their Cup hopes lay on the shoulders of goaltenders Jonas Hiller and J.S. Giguere. If just one of them can play to their capability, Anaheim has a really good chance.
Boston
With Phil Kessel still being dangled in the trade market as an RFA, the B’s could potentially lose their most potent goal-scorer. But don’t worry in Boston, as they still have a dynamite team returning under the watch of Claude Julien. Tim Thomas and Zdeno Chara anchor the best defensive corps in the East, and they have great depth at forward. The Bruins fell short in last year’s playoffs, and they surely don’t want to end their season in May again.
Calgary
The Flames’ back end is arguably the best in the league with Jay Bouwmeester now in the fold. New coach Brent Sutter should be able to succeed in a place where he’s more comfortable. The big question is with Calgary’s offense. Iginla and Jokinen can only do so much, and will need help from the likes of David Moss, Rene Bourque, and Dustin Boyd if they want to bring the Cup back to Canada.
Chicago
Even though everyone (including myself) is suddenly having doubts about their long-term future with Hossa in town, the ‘Hawks will be a force in the West once again. Their offense is stacked with a lot of scoring and grit, and their defense has really solid depth. If Cristobal Huet can play like the goalie this team gave $5.6 million last summer, the renaissance in Chicago could continue.
Detroit
After sleepwalking through the month of July, GM Ken Holland has recovered nicely this month. He’s signed 3 veterans – Williams, Bertuzzi, and Eaves – that should fit in nicely with the Wings. They still have a lot of talent on the blue line, featuring Lidstrom and Kronwall. If they can find enough secondary scoring, Detroit should once again be a power house in the league.
Philadelphia
The Flyers have a bit of a new look this year. Chris Pronger was acquired on draft day, and is expected to lead this team to the promise land. The enigmatic Ray Emery was a questionable signing, but could pay dividends if he’s motivated in net. And Philly still boasts a deep group of forwards, including young guns Giroux and Van Riemsdyk who should be in their plans from day one. They have the make-up of a Cup-caliber team… now they have to play like it.
Pittsburgh
After knocking off the Red Wings in Game 7 at The Joe, Dan Bylsma’s bunch is looking for a 2nd straight championship. Crosby & Malkin have more toys to play with now than they did at this point last year. Marc-Andre Fleury’s confidence should be at another level when the season begins, and is a darkhorse for the Vezina. For the Pens to repeat, the defense needs to step it up as a whole and they must avoid a lingering hangover.
San Jose
We were expecting more drastic moves out of the Bay Area than the signings of Scott Nichol and Jed Ortmeyer. If they bring the same core group back from last year (Marleau, Thornton, Nabokov, Cheechoo), I guarantee they’ll fail once again when it counts. But you can’t overlook how good they were in the regular season in 08-09, and they can come close to repeating that success.
Vancouver
The Canucks’ hopes rest on the shoulders of one guy: Roberto Luongo. Going into a contract year, Luongo has to be motivated to redeem his 2nd round disaster against Chicago. Vancouver brought in Mikael Samuelsson to add depth to their group up front, and still have a solid defensive corps even though Mattias Ohlund left via free agency. Like Calgary, the Canucks will be on a mission to bring the Cup back north of the border.
Washington
This is a team that I can’t really put my finger on. I want to think they can win the Cup with Ovechkin, Semin, etc… but at the same time, I feel it’s impossible for them to go far in the playoffs until they get more defensive help for Mike Green. Jose Theodore and Simeon Varlamov will battle it out in the pre-season to see who’ll get the #1 job, but neither can be relied on just yet. Caps Nation has high hopes, but ask me in April whether they’re truly a Cup contender.

This Day In Hockey History (8/22)

Thanks, Chris!!

This Day weekend style....with a fact that may just surprise you and if it does not...we will try harder on Sunday. Video and moment time as always forthcoming.


Petr Klima did commercials.....

August 22, 1996

---

Los Angeles Kings obtained veteran Petr Klima from Tampa Bay, in exchange for a conditional draft choice in 1997.

AM Video Fix!

Two more great goals...

Fantasy Corner: Top 20 Goalies

1. Roberto Luongo, VAN (Age: 30)
’08-‘09 Stats: 33-13-7, 2.34 GAA, .920 SV%, 9 SO
3-Year Average: 38-21-7, 2.33 GAA, .919 SV%, 7 SO
Note: The cornerstone of the Vancouver franchise is as good as they come. He could be in for a monster season, as he is set to become a UFA next summer.

2. Tim Thomas, BOS (Age: 35)
’08-‘09 Stats: 36-11-7, 2.10 GAA, .933 SV%, 5 SO
3-Year Average: 31-20-6, 2.56 GAA, .920 SV%, 4 SO
Note: Thomas had a career year in net in ’08. While he may not put up the same un-godly numbers from a year ago, Thomas remains a top 5 fantasy goalie.

3. Martin Brodeur, NJD (Age: 37)
’08-‘09 Stats: 19-9-3, 2.41 GAA, .916 SV%, 5 SO
3-Year Average: 37-20-5, 2.26 GAA, .919 SV%, 7 SO
Note: Brodeur was injured for much of ’08-’09 but still has juice left in the tank. He won 10 of 11 games in one stretch last season.

4. Niklas Backstrom, MIN (Age: 31)
’08-‘09 Stats: 37-24-8, 2.33 GAA, .923 SV%, 8 SO
3-Year Average: 31-15-7, 2.20 GAA, .924 SV%, 6 SO
Note: Backstrom set career-highs in games played and wins in ’08-’09. Be aware of the coaching change in Minnesota, though, as 'Backs' will no longer benefit from the ultra-defensive system of Jacques Lemaire's.

5. Miikka Kiprusoff, CGY (Age: 32)
08-‘09 Stats: 45-25-5, 2.84 GAA, .903 SV%, 4 SO
3-Year Average: 41-25-8, 2.66 GAA, .910 SV%, 4 SO
Note: Despite his GAA on and SV% getting worse over each of the past 4 seasons, ‘Kipper’ is a work-horse that will rack up the wins. He has started 91% of the Flames' games and has accumulated 166 victories since 05-06.

6. Henrik Lundqvist, NYR (Age: 27)
’08-‘09 Stats: 38-25-7, 2.43 GAA, .916 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 37-24-8, 2.33 GAA, .915 SV%, 6 SO
Note: Lundqvist is remarkably consistent, recording between 37 and 38 wins in each of the past three seasons. He posted the highest GAA of his career in ’08-’09, though.

7. Evgeni Nabokov, SJS (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 41-12-8, 2.44 GAA, .910 SV%, 7 SO
3-Year Average: 37-16-7, 2.29 GAA, .911 SV%, 7 SO
Note: Nabokov posted a remarkable record for the Sharks last season. He is a fairly safe bet to tally around 40 wins again this season.

8. Cam Ward, CAR (Age: 25)
’08-‘09 Stats: 39-23-5, 2.44 GAA, .916 SV%, 6 SO
3-Year Average: 35-23-5, 2.71 GAA, .906 SV%, 4 SO
Note: Ward keeps getting better and better. His GAA has decreased by at least 0.18 in each of his first four seasons in the NHL, while his wins, SV%, and shutouts have steadily increased.

9. Jonas Hiller, ANA (Age: 27)
’08-‘09 Stats: 23-15-1, 2.39 GAA, .919 SV%, 4 SO
3-Year Average: 17-11-1, 2.28 GAA, .921 SV%, 2 SO**
Note: The Ducks turned to Hiller as their go-to-guy down the stretch. He did not disappoint, posting sparkling numbers in the postseason (7-6-0, 2.23, .943).

10. Ryan Miller, BUF (Age: 29)
’08-‘09 Stats: 34-18-6, 2.53 GAA, .918 SV%, 5 SO
3-Year Average: 37-20-3, 2.63 GAA, .912 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Miller was white-hot at the start of last season (9 GP, 7 W, 15 GA, 2 SO). He has recorded at least 30 wins in each of his 4 full NHL seasons.

11. Steve Mason, CBJ (Age: 21)
’08-‘09 Stats: 33-20-7, 2.29 GAA, .916 SV%, 10 SO
3-Year Average: 33-20-7, 2.29 GAA, .916 SV%, 10 SO*
Note: Mason’s paltry playoff performance, albeit against Detroit, may have a lingering affect at the start of the ’09 campaign. Don’t overvalue him, as a sophomore slump may be in order.

12. Marc-Andre Fleury, PIT (Age: 24)
’08-‘09 Stats: 35-18-7, 2.67 GAA, .912 SV%, 4 SO
3-Year Average: 31-15-6, 2.61 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO
Note: Despite showing flashes of brilliance, ‘Flower’ has been streaky and injury-prone in the past two regular seasons. The departures of d-men Rob Scuderi and Hal Gill could hinder his performance.

13. Marty Turco, DAL (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 33-31-10, 2.81 GAA, .898 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 34-24-7, 2.45 GAA, .906 SV%, 4 SO
Note: Look for Turco to rebound from the worst season of his career in ’08-’09. He is in a contract year and I would not be surprised if he ended up becoming a top 10 fantasy goalie in ’09-’10.

14. Pekka Rinne, NSH (Age: 26)
’08-‘09 Stats: 29-15-4, 2.38 GAA, .917 SV%, 7 SO
3-Year Average: 29-15-4, 2.38 GAA, .917 SV%, 7 SO*
Note: Rinne was no fluke in his rookie season as a Predator. He only allowed 5 or more goals 4 times in 52 games played a year ago.

15. Nikolai Khabibulin, EDM (Age: 36)
’08-‘09 Stats: 25-8-7, 2.33 GAA, .919 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 24-18-6, 2.61 GAA, .910 SV%, 2 SO
Note: The ‘Bulin Wall’ could stand tall in Edmonton, or it could come crumbling down. He is a risky pick because he has to be motivated to play well and Edmonton may not be a Cup contender in ’09-’10.

16. Cristobal Huet, CHI (Age: 34)
’08-‘09 Stats: 20-15-14, 2.53 GAA, .909 SV%, 3 SO
3-Year Average: 24-15-4, 2.55 GAA, .915 SV%, 3 SO
Note: Huet did not live up to expectations in his first season in Chicago. With Khabibulin out of the picture, Huet could set a career high in wins in ’09-’10.

17. Carey Price, MTL (Age: 22)
’08-‘09 Stats: 23-16-10, 2.83 GAA, .905 SV%, 1 SO
3-Year Average: 24-14-7, 2.71 GAA, .912 SV%, 2 SO
Note: Price took a step back in his sophomore season. His GAA rose significantly from ’08-’09, and his SV% took a hit.

18. Ray Emery, PHI (Age: 27)
’08-‘09 Stats: 21-18-2, 2.48 GAA, .914 SV%, 4 SO
3-Year Average: 23-15-5, 2.80 GAA, .904 SV%, 3 SO
Note: After a leave of absence from the NHL, Emery makes his return as the Flyers’ starting goaltender. He could regain his form from ’06-’07 if all goes well (33 W, 2.47 GAA, .918 SV%)

19. Tomas Vokoun, FLA (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 26-23-6, 2.49 GAA, .926 SV%, 6 SO
3-Year Average: 28-21-6, 2.52 GAA, .922 SV%, 5 SO
Note: Florida figures to be a weaker team in ’09-’10 than they were last season. Vokoun will struggle to rack up the wins and the departure of Bouwmeester will only hurt Vokoun.

20. Chris Mason, STL (Age: 33)
’08-‘09 Stats: 27-21-7, 2.41 GAA, .916 SV%, 6 SO
3-Year Average: 23-18-6, 2.56 GAA, .913 SV%, 5 SO
Note: Mason posted the highest win total of his career in ’08-’09. But keep in mind that '07-'08 was the only other time he entered the season as a starter (with Nashville)... and we all know what happened then.

Goc to Nashville; Balsillie burns more bridges

Reports came out last night that the Predators have signed center Marcel Goc… thanks to our friend Dirk Hoag at On the Forecheck! It was officially announced today, and it's a 1-year, 2-way deal. Where exactly does Goc fit in to the Predators’ plans?? As a 4th line center and penalty killer. It’s a nice addition to a team that lost underrated veterans Radek Bonk and Scott Nichol up front.

Goc doesn’t have dazzling offensive numbers, as he tallied 11 points in 55 games last year… and was a no-show in the playoffs. But the German is still young (25) and is known for his speed. He’s a good faceoff man coming at a cheap price ($550k). If Goc slides into the 4th line center slot, Jerred Smithson would probably move over to the wing – where I think he’s better off. GM David Poile has added depth with experience with this signing.
---

Are there any more bridges for Jim Balsillie to burn!? I’m afraid not. Although there is a glimmer of truth to his recent comments, the timing of this really sucks! And you gotta love Sens owner Eugene Melnyk’s response to Balsillie’s brash remarks.

Balsillie has already turned the NHL’s 30 owners the wrong way with his antics the last few years with the Pens, Preds, and now Coyotes. But to come out and bash the league’s fraternity of owners?? Back off, cue ball… this is not the time to throw the league under the bus. Although the door is (somehow) still cracked open for Balsillie to possibly purchase the Coyotes, I have a really hard time imagining the Blackberry wiz getting the team in the end. The more bridges he burns, the deeper a hole he must climb out of. That hole almost seems impossible to overcome at this point.

We’re tired of your ongoing losing battle, Jimmy. But go ahead and tick off even more of the NHL brass… I hear the Brooklyn Bridge is still standing.

AM Video Fix!

Two more great goals...

Fantasy Corner: Top Players Under 23

Here are the top 10 players under the age of 23 with less than 50 games played in the NHL. They may not necessarily make a huge fantasy impact in ’09-’10, but all are good options in keeper leagues.

1. John Tavares, C
Team (Age): New York Islanders (Age: 19)
’09-’10 Outlook: Tavares will center the Islanders’ top line and have very high expectations. He should top 50 points in this year.
Future Projection: Tavares will boom or bust in New York, IMO. If he lives up to his potential, he will become a top 10 fantasy center by ’11-’12.

2. Derick Brassard, C
Team (Age): Columbus Blue Jackets (Age: 22)
’09-’10 Outlook: Brassard only makes this list because he was hurt for much of ’08-’09 and only played in 31 games. He has 60-70 point potential in ’09-’10.
Future Projection: Brassard will be a very good center for years to come. While he may not become elite right away, he should be a top 15-20 center by next season.

3. Nikita Filatov, LW
Team (Age): Columbus Blue Jackets (Age: 19)
’09-’10 Outlook: Filatov may be poised to explode on to the scene with Columbus this season. He has 25-30 goal potential in ’09-’10.
Future Projection: Filatov is perhaps the top goal-scoring prospect in the world. He could become a 50-goal scorer before you know it.

4. Zach Bogosian, D
Team (Age): Atlanta Thrashers (Age: 19)
’09-’10 Outlook: See Derick Brassard. Bogosian played in 47 games in '08-'09 and has 40-45 point potential in '09-'10
Future Projection: Bogosian has 50 point potential and could be a top 10 fantasy defenseman by '11-'12.

5. Matt Duchene, C
Team (Age): Colorado Avalanche (Age: 18)
’09-’10 Outlook: Duchene could center the 2nd line for the Avalanche if he makes the team. I would not be surprised if puts up better numbers than Tavares, as he will have much less pressure on him.
Future Projection: Duchene has the ability to develop into a top 20 fantasy center by ’10-’11.

6. Evander Kane, C/RW
Team (Age): Atlanta Thrashers (Age: 18)
’09-’10 Outlook: Kane will most likely start the season in the AHL and could stay there for the entire year. He is worth snagging off of waivers in you fantasy league if he gets called up to the NHL in ’09-’10, though.
Future Projection: Kane could be a 30-goal scorer in ’10-’11 and projects as a 40-50 goal scorer further down the line.

7. Cody Hodgson, C
Team (Age): Vancouver Canucks (Age: 19)
’09-’10 Outlook: Hodgson should be a top 5 fantasy rookie in ’09-’10. He will likely only be the 3rd line center in Vancouver, though, which will hurt his value somewhat.
Future Projection: With a year in the NHL under his belt, Hodgson could become a top 30 fantasy center by ’10-‘11.

8. Colin Wilson, C
Team (Age): Nasvhille Predators (Age: 19)
’08-’09 Outlook: Wilson may need some more grooming in the AHL before making an impact with the Preds. He will likely play with the big club at some point in ’09-’10, though (especially if Nashville begins to falter and needs a spark).
Future Projection: Wilson is the future #1 center in Nashville and could become a top-20 fantasy center by ’11-’12.

9. Tuukka Rask, G
Team (Age): Boston Bruins (Age: 22)
’09-’10 Outlook: I don’t want to declare Rask as the ‘1B option’ to Tim Thomas just yet, but he could become that if Thomas stumbles a bit. Nonetheless, he will be one of the better fantasy backups in ’09-’10.
Future Projection: Rask will be somebody’s #1 goaltender in ’10-’11, whether or not it is with Boston. He is set to become a RFA next summer and Thomas is under contract with the B’s through ’12-’13.

10. Alex Pietrangelo, D
Team (Age): St. Louis Blues (Age: 19)
’09-’10 Outlook: Pietrangelo probably won’t make a big fantasy splash in ’09-10, but he is worth having in keeper/dynasty leagues.
Future Projection: Pietrangelo will definitely be NHL-ready by ’10-’11, and could become a top-20 fantasy defenseman by ’11-12.

A beef with Versus...

Thankfully, the Chicago Blackhawks’ resurgence makes the Western Conference relevant to head honchos over at Versus! It is borderline pathetic whenever their TV schedule is released at this time every year; and it was no different yesterday. Let’s take a look at the number of games each team gets on hockey’s lone cable provider in the US…

9) Chicago, Detroit
8) NY Rangers, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh
7) Boston, Buffalo, Minnesota, Washington
6) New Jersey
5) Dallas, St. Louis
4) San Jose
3) Colorado
2) Columbus, Montreal, NY Islanders, Tampa Bay, Toronto
1) Calgary, Florida, Los Angeles, Nashville, Phoenix
0) Anaheim, Atlanta, Carolina, Edmonton, Ottawa, Vancouver

I fully understand that ratings drive the bus here, but Versus will not be traveling across the Rocky Mountains this year… not once! They can’t travel to San Jose or Anaheim for one game!? I mean, I know there are the playoffs… but fans in different markets (who don’t have Center Ice) don’t see the Sharks play at home much in the playoffs because they exit early every year.

Another thing to bring up is that three of the league’s ‘elite eight’ from last year’s postseason aren’t even given a game (ANA, CAR, VAN). How pathetic is that? No wonder Ryan Getzlaf is the NHL’s biggest unknown superstar… the east coast doesn’t get to see him play. What if the Ducks had won the Crosby lottery in 2005… would Versus decide to add some frequent flyer miles to Anaheim?? It’s an interesting thought. And the fact that the ‘Canes do not get one game kind of baffles me. That is such a rowdy arena and great atmosphere, I’d figure the closed-minded network would like to showcase the ‘Caniacs’ once.

Something else surprising was that Minnesota is getting showcased 7 times. For some reason, Versus loves to broadcast the Wild’s games with Dallas. To me, the Stars-Wild ‘rivalry’ is watered-down and boring to watch. It’s also important to note that the Wild-Red Wings game on NBC last spring got their worst ratings of the season. Maybe that’ll change with Todd Richards behind Minny’s bench.

It’s kind of disheartening to see Versus showcase the same teams month after month, knowing that the sizzling Sharks-Ducks rivalry could get much more national attention if Versus thought California wasn’t off-limits. But as long as ratings determine (almost) everything, we’re stuck with the annual Ovechkin/Crosby/Philly/Detroit show…

*Check out Puck the Media for national TV schedule coverage!! Good stuff.

This Day In Hockey History (8/20)

Thanks, Chris!!

Time for another classic moment. Get the beer ready....and no tears please...no more of those.



Sadly 1/3 less doom on this day....

August 20, 1997

Philadelphia Flyers traded Mikael Renberg and Karl Dykhuis to Tampa Bay, in exchange for four first round draft picks.

AM Video Fix!

Two great goals!!

Detroit is ready to go

When the two-time defending Western Conference champs lost Marian Hossa to Chicago, Mikael Samuelsson to Vancouver, and Jiri Hudler to the KHL last month, I think everyone had their doubts that Detroit was going to be active at all. GM Ken Holland must have been on vacation in July!

This month, Holland has added three veterans that will help immensely in the team’s efforts to capture their 9th straight division title. A couple weeks back, the Wings signed Patrick Eaves and ex-Wing Jason Williams. Eaves is a nice depth pickup, and Williams could step into the role vacated by Samuelsson. He should see time on the 2nd power play unit, and will thrive in his return to the Motor City.

Yesterday’s signing of Todd Bertuzzi just adds fuel to the fire. ‘Big Bert’ is another ex-Wing ready to step in and fill his role. He had a pit stop in Detroit back in the 06/07 season after being dealt from Florida at the deadline. Bertuzzi had just 4 points in 8 regular season games and put together a decent postseason. A healthy campaign could pay dividends for the ageing forward, who has not played a full season since the 05/06 season.

This trio of signings by Holland adds another feather to his cap. Up against the cap, unable to re-sign key players, he has rebounded very nicely. Bertuzzi and Williams kind of glue together all the pieces IMO. There will now be less pressure on young guys like Ville Leino and Valterri Filppula to step into bigger roles; they also have the depth up front they always do.

Even though I hate the Red Wings with a passion, I like the moves they’ve made recently. Every time you doubt them, they come back with a vengeance! With the Blackhawks seemingly breathing down their necks, Detroit should be able to fend them off and still keep their title as the team to beat in the West.

Fantasy Corner: Defensemen 41-80

41. Drew Doughty, LAK (Age: 19)
’08-’09 Stats: 81 GP, 6 G, 21 A, 27 PTS, -17, 56 PIM
3-Year Average: 81 GP, 6 G, 21 A, 27 PTS, -17, 56 PIM*
Note: Doughty has major upside, as he is one of the best young defenders in the game. He has 45-50 point potential and should be the first Kings d-man taken in fantasy drafts.

42. Ryan Whitney, ANA (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 48 GP, 2 G, 21 A, 23 PTS, -14, 28 PIM
3-Year Average: 68 GP, 9 G, 31 A, 40 PTS, -2, 50 PIM
Note: Whitney failed to score a regular season goal after being traded to the Ducks at the trade deadline, but he did record 10 assists in 20 games played. He will be a mainstay on the Ducks’ first power play unit with Pronger out of the fold.

43. Francois Beauchemin, TOR (Age: 29)
’08-’09 Stats: 20 GP, 4 G, 1 A, 5 PTS, -3, 12 PIM
3-Year Average: 58 GP, 4 G, 14 A, 18 PTS, -2, 40 PIM
Note: Beauchemin should factor in on the power play in Toronto, something that didn’t happen in Anaheim with Pronger and Niedermayer ahead of him. He could be a fantasy steal and tally between 35 and 40 points.

44. Brent Burns, MIN (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 59 GP, 8 G, 19 A, 27 PTS, -7, 45 PIM
3-Year Average: 73 GP, 10 G, 22 A, 32 PTS, +7, 50 PIM
Note: Expect Burns to post similar numbers in ’09-’10 to the ones he put up in ’07-’08 (82 GP, 43 PTS).

45. Keith Ballard, FLA (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 6 G, 28 A, 34 PTS, +14, 72 PIM
3-Year Average: 78 GP, 6 G, 22 A, 28 PTS, +5, 72 PIM
Note: Ballad ranked 2nd on the Panthers in plus-minus and PIM last season. He will step in on the first power play unit with the departure of Bouwmeester.

46. Matt Niskanen, DAL (Age: 22)
’08-’09 Stats: 80 GP, 6 G, 29 A, 35 PTS, -11, 52 PIM
3-Year Average: 79 GP, 7 G, 24 A, 31 PTS, +6, 44 PIM**
Note: Niskanen is still very young and has good upside. Expect 35-40 points from him at most in ’09-’10, though.

47. Kyle Quincey, COL (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 72 GP, 4 G, 34 A, 38 PTS, -5, 63 PIM
3-Year Average: 72 GP, 4 G, 34 A, 38 PTS, -5, 63 PIM*
Note: Quincey was impressive in ’08-’09, his first full NHL season. He racked up 27 points on the man-advantage (2 G, 25 A), and figures to put more pucks in the net this season.

48. Victor Hedman, TBL (Age: 18)
’08-’09 Stats: N/A
3-Year Average: N/A
Note: The 2nd overall pick in this year’s draft should step in and contribute right away for the Lightning. Expect 30-35 points from him in ’09-’10.

49. Chris Campoli, OTT (Age: 25)
’08-’09 Stats: 76 GP, 11 G, 19 A, 30 PTS, -16, 55 PIM
3-Year Average: 58 GP, 5 G, 15 A, 20 PTS, -7, 31 PIM
Note: Campoli performed well with the Senators after being traded from the Islanders at the trade deadline (25 GP, 13 PTS). He should see more time on the power play this season.

50. Marc-Edouard Vlasic, SJS (Age: 22)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 6 G, 30 A, 36 PTS, +15, 42 PIM
3-Year Average: 82 GP, 4 G, 22 A, 26 PTS, +5, 28 PIM
Note: Vlasic had the best season of his young career in ’08-’09. He tallied 21 points on the power play (3 G, 18 A), and ranked 5th on the Sharks with a +15 rating.

51. James Wisniewski, ANA (Age: 25)
’08-’09 Stats: 48 GP, 3 G, 21 A, 24 PTS, +9, 30 PIM
3-Year Average: 55 GP, 4 G, 16 A, 20 PTS, +8, 57 PIM
Note: Wisniewski played well after being shipped to the Ducks at the trade deadline (17 GP, 11 PTS). Expect 30-35 points from him in ’09-‘10.

52. Fedor Tyutin, CBJ (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 9 G, 25 A, 34 PTS, +1, 81 PIM
3-Year Average: 77 GP, 5 G, 17 A, 2 PTS, -1, 56 PIM
Note: Tyutin put up the best numbers of his career in his first season as a Blue Jacket. He should top 30 points once again this year.

53. Joni Pitkanen, CAR (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 71 GP, 7 G, 26 A, 33 PTS, +11, 58 PIM
3-Year Average: 70 GP, 6 G, 28 A, 34 PTS, -6, 67 PIM
Note: Pitkanen emerged as one of Carolina’s more dependable down the stretch and in the playoffs last season. His ceiling isn’t much higher than 35-40 points, though.

54. Mattias Ohlund, TBL (Age: 33)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 6 G, 19 A, 25 PTS, +14, 105 PIM
3-Year Average: 71 GP, 9 G, 18 A, 27 PTS, +3, 88 PIM
Note: Ohlund broke the century mark in PIM for the first time in his career in ’08-’09. Look for him record 30-35 points in his first season with the Bolts.

55. Ron Hainsey, ATL (Age: 28)
’08-’09 Stats: 81 GP, 6 G, 33 A, 39 PTS, -16, 32 PIM
3-Year Average: 80 GP, 8 G, 27 A, 35 PTS, -14, 42 PIM
Note: Hainsey has been fairly consistent, recording at least 6 goals and 25 assists in each of the past three seasons.

56. Adrian Aucoin, PHX (Age: 36)
’08-‘09 Stats: 81 GP, 10 G, 24 A, 34 PTS, -8, 46 PIM
3-Year Average: 72 GP, 8 G, 20 A, 28 PTS, -6, 44] PIM
Note: Aucoin’ numbers should take a hit in ’09-'10, as he won’t have the same kind of talent to work with in the desert that he had in Calgary.

57. Roman Hamrlik, MTL (Age: 35)
’08-’09 Stats: 81 GP, 6 G, 27 A, 33 PTS, +4, 62 PIM
3-Year Average: 78 GP, 6 G, 26 A, 32 PTS, +11, 63 PIM
Note: Hamrlik recorded 30 points for the 10th time in his career in ’08-’09. He's on the downside of his career, and now has a lot of company on Montreal's blue line.

58. Paul Martin, NJD (Age: 28)
’08-’09 Stats: 73 GP, 5 G, 28 A, 33 PTS, +21, 36 PIM
3-Year Average: 76 GP, 4 G, 26 A, 30 PTS, +11, 25 PIM
Note: Martin is a safe fantasy choice, as he has recorded at least 32 points in 3 of the past 4 seasons. He has a +41 rating over the past two seasons, too.

59. Tobias Enstrom, ATL (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 5 G, 27 A, 32 PTS, +14, 52 PIM
3-Year Average: 82 GP, 5 G, 30 A, 35 PTS, +5, 48 PIM
Note: Enstrom led Atlanta with a +14 rating in ’08-’09. He really came on at the end of the season (22 GP, 20 PTS), but the Thrashers’ addition of Kubina could hinder his fantasy performance.

60. Kris Russell, CBJ (Age: 22)
’08-’09 Stats: 66 GP, 2 G, 19 A, 21 PTS, -10, 28 PIM
3-Year Average: 67 GP, 2 G, 14 A, 16 PTS, -11, 21 PIM**
Note: Russell could be in for a breakout year in ’09-’10. He should see more time on the power play and has 35-point potential.

61. Michal Rozsival, NYR (Age: 31)
’08-’09 Stats: 76 GP, 8 G, 22 A, 30 PTS, -7, 52 PIM
3-Year Average: 79 GP, 10 G, 26 A, 36 PTS, +1, 61 PIM
Note: Rozsival may be on the decline a bit, but he did record 30 points for the 4th straight season in ’08-’09.

62. Matt Hunwick, BOS (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 53 GP, 6 G, 21 A, 27 PTS, +15, 31 PIM
3-Year Average: 53 GP, 6 G, 21 A, 27 PTS, +15, 31 PIM*
Note: Hunwick impressed in his first season with the Bruins. He should top 30 points in his sophomore campaign, and could be a sleeper if he sees time on the power play.

63. Carlo Colaiacovo, STL (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 73 GP, 3 G, 27 A, 30 PTS, +0, 35 PIM
3-Year Average: 50 GP, 4 G, 13 A, 7 PTS, +0, 22 PIM
Note: Colaiacovo saw significant time on the man advantage for the first time in his career with the Blues in ’08-’09. He tallied 19 power play assists a year ago.

64. Alex Goligoski, PIT (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 45 GP, 6 G, 14 A, 20 PTS, +5, 16 PIM
3-Year Average: 45 GP, 6 G, 14 A, 20 PTS, +5, 16 PIM*
Note: Goligoski filled in well for the injured Sergei Gonchar in ’08-’09. With the departures of Scuderi and Gill, Goligoski will be a full time starter with 30-35 point potential.

65. Andrej Meszaros, TBL (Age: 23)
’08-’09 Stats: 52 GP, 2 G, 14 A, 16 PTS, -4, 36 PIM
3-Year Average: 72 GP, 6 G, 23 A, 29 PTS, -5, 63 PIM
Note: Meszaros should be featured on the power play more in his second season in Tampa Bay. Expect 30-35 points from him in ’09-’10.

66. Keith Yandle, PHX (Age: 23)
’08-’09 Stats: 69 GP, 4 G, 26 A, 30 PTS, -4, 37 PIM
3-Year Average: 56 GP, 5 G, 17 A, 22 PTS, -8, 26 PIM
Note: Yandle faded somewhat down the stretch in ’08-’09 (18 GP, 4 PTS). The ‘Yotes’ addition of Aucoin will mean less time on the power play for Yandle in ’09-’10 (13 PPP in ’08-’09).

67. Braydon Coburn, PHI (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 80 GP, 7 G, 21 A, 28 PTS, +7, 97 PIM
3-Year Average: 69 GP, 6 G, 19 A, 25 PTS, +8, 72 PIM
Note: Coburn’s PIM have increased by at least 20 in each of the past two seasons, a natural progression when you are groomed to play in Philly.

68. Johnny Oduya, NJD (Age: 28)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 7 G, 22 A, 29 PTS, +21, 30 PIM
3-Year Average: 78 GP, 5 G, 17 A, 22 PTS, +14, 46 PIM
Note: Oduya carries a +48 rating over the past two seasons and has a good shot to top 30 points for the first time in his career.

69. Brent Seabrook, CHI (Age: 24)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 8 G, 18 A, 26 PTS, +23, 62 PIM
3-Year Average: 82 GP, 7 G, 20 A, 7 PTS, +10, 85 PIM
Note: You know what you’re getting with Seabrook. He has only missed one game over the past three seasons, which is rare for a defenseman, and is always around the 30-point mark.

70. Wade Redden, NYR (Age: 32)
’08-’09 Stats: 81 GP, 3 G, 23 A, 26 PTS, -5, 51 PIM
3-Year Average: 75 GP, 5 G, 28 A, 33 PTS, +2, 54 PIM
Note: Redden was a big disappointment in his first season in New York. He failed to record at least 34 points for the first time since ’98-’99.

71. Steve Montador, BUF (Age: 29)
’08-’09 Stats: 78 GP, 4 G, 17 A, 21 PTS, +17, 143 PIM
3-Year Average: 74 GP, 4 G, 13 A, 17 PTS, +6, 112 PIM
Note: Montador ranked 2nd amongst defensemen in ’08-’09 with 143 PIM.

72. Anton Babchuk, CAR (Age: 25)
’08-‘09 Stats: 72 GP, 16 G, 19 A, 35 PTS, +13, 16 PIM
3-Year Average: 41 GP, 6 G, 10 A, 16 PTS, +2, 17 PIM
Note: Babchuk really came on down the stretch for the ‘Canes (26 GP, 23 PTS) in ’08-’09, but he may not figure into their plans as much this season with the additions of Aaron Ward and Andrew Alberts. He could be a sleeper if someone gets hurt, though.

73. Craig Rivet, BUF (Age: 35)
’08-’09 Stats: 64 GP, 2 G, 22 A, 24 PTS, +4, 125 PIM
3-Year Average: 70 GP, 5 G, 23 A, 28 PTS, +3, 99 PIM
Note: Rivet racked up a career-high 125 PIM in ’08-’09, his first season with Buffalo.

74. Mike Commodore, CBJ (Age: 29)
’08-’09 Stats: 81 GP, 5 G, 19 A, 24 PTS, +11, 100 PIM
3-Year Average: 43 GP, 4 G, 11 A, 15 PTS, +7, 16 PIM
Note: Commodore has recorded at least 100 PIM in each season since the lockout. He was one of eight defensemen to record 20 points and 100 PIM in ’08-’09.

75. Trevor Daley, DAL (Age: 25)
’08-’09 Stats: 75 GP, 7 G, 18 A, 25 PTS, +2, 73 PIM
3-Year Average: 77 GP, 5 G, 15 A, 20 PTS, +1, 74 PIM
Note: Daley is a decent late round option in deeper leagues. He should record around 25 points and 75 PIM again in ’08-’09.

76. Sami Salo, VAN (Age: 35)
’08-’09 Stats: 60 GP, 5 G, 20 A, 25 PTS, +5, 26 PIM
3-Year Average: 63 GP, 9 G, 20 A, 29 PTS, +9, 30 PIM
Note: Salo has missed significant time due to injury in each of the past 4 seasons. He has 40 point potential if he stays healthy for a whole season, though.

77. Dan Hamhuis (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 82 GP, 3 G, 23 A, 26 PTS, -4, 67 PIM
3-Year Average: 81 GP, 4 G, 20 A, 24 PTS, +0, 66 PIM
Note: Hamhuis has little upside but is a safe pick in deeper leagues. He has only missed 5 games in his 5 year career and has recorded at least 57 PIM in each of those 5 seasons.

78. Brian Pothier, WSH (Age: 32)
’08-’09 Stats: 9 GP, 1 G, 2 A, 3 PTS, +0, 4 PIM
3-Year Average: 40 GP, 3 G, 12 A, 15 PTS, -2, 23 PIM
Note: I would shy away from drafting Pothier, as he has only played in 48 games over the past two seasons. He could be a nice free agent pickup as the season goes along, though (if he stays healthy).

79. Matt Carle, PHI (Age: 25)
’08-’09 Stats: 76 GP, 5 G, 21 A, 26 PTS, +3, 22 PIM
3-Year Average: 72 GP, 6 G, 22 A, 28 PTS, +2, 26 PIM
Note: Carle isn’t a great fantasy option in Philadelphia. His ceiling isn’t much higher than 30 points and he doesn’t get many PIM or power play points.

80. Mark Giordano, CGY (Age: 26)
’08-’09 Stats: 58 GP, 2 G, 17 A, 19 PTS, +2, 59 PIM
3-Year Average: 53 GP, 5 G, 13 A, 18 PTS, +5, 48 PIM
Note: Giordano may be a nice sleeper pick, as he could have a breakout year in ’09-’10.

10 Young Defensemen to Keep An Eye On:
Alex Pietrangelo, STL (Age: 19)
Alexander Sulzer, NSH (Age: 25)
Brian Lee, OTT (Age: 22)
Chris Butler, BUF (Age: 22)
Cody Franson, NSH (Age: 22)
Luca Sbisa, ANA (Age: 19)
Jonathan Ericsson, DET (Age: 25)
Karl Alzner, WSH (Age: 21)
P.K. Subban, MTL (Age: 20)
Yannick Weber, MTL (Age: 21)