Hockey Mind at Work

With recent rumors popping up regarding Thomas Plekanec's and Jaroslav Halak's future with the Canadiens, Dany Heatley's future with the Sens, Patrick Marleau's future with San Jose, and San Jose's interest in Heatley combined with GM Doug Wilson's ambition to overhaul his roster, it is not far fetched to think that a possible three-team deal could satisfy all teams involved.

Early on when Dany Heatley disheartened the Senators faithful by demanding to be traded, GM Brian Murray explicitly made it known to other general managers that Ottawa would be seeking young talent that could help the Senators win today, not tomorrow. With Edmonton now out of the running (according to various sources) and most teams short of available cap space, Murray has very few dance partners to tango with regarding Heatley's contract. Some suggest that Murray should retain Heatley, but I beg to differ. Having already caused anger in many Senators fans, retaining Heatley could serve as a distraction to a Senators team that desperately needs to move past a terrible 2007-08 campaign. If a reasonable offer is put on the table, Murray shouldn't think twice and make the deal.In short, if Murray wants to move Heatley, he will have to do so while getting less than Heatley's true market value.

Only four seasons removed from his 95-point campaign, Jonathan Cheechoo has found himself at the bottom of the pecking order in San Jose. A new face in Devon Setoguchi has emerged on the top line, and GM Doug Wilson is looking for takers to hop on board the Cheechoo train. If given the chance, Cheechoo remains a top-6 winger that can easily pot 20-30 goals a season.

A shadow has also been cast over the future of long time Shark Patrick Marleau who has played his entire 11-year career with San Jose. After rebounding last season from a dismal 48-point performance in 2007-08, a big question mark lurks over the future of San Jose's captain. Marleau has been subject to various trade rumors over the past three seasons, and could very well find himself on the move after a disappointing playoff performance.

In Montreal, Thomas Plekanec and Bob Gainey avoided salary arbitration yesterday when the Habs GM inked 'Pleks' to a 1-year, $2.75 million dollar deal. The 26-year old Czech native, who has had three straight 20+ goal seasons is coming off a sub-par year and will be looking to rebound. However, Plekanec's future with 'Les Canadiens' remains in doubt...as is his teammate's, Jaroslav Halak.

Halak, along with Carey Price, will both be restricted free agents at season's end. After serving as the Habs' backup over the past 3 seasons, Halak will be looking elsewhere next year if he sees that the Canadiens are sold on Carey Price as Montreal's number one netminder. Over the course of his three seasons in Montreal Halak has posted a 30-21 record with a 0.914 save percentage. With his potential as a number one goaltender, Halak won't be looking to play second fiddle to Carey Price after this season. For the Canadiens, there is simply no reason to keep both Halak and Price around when it is clear that Gainey is investing long-term in Price.

After considering all these factors, take a look at the following three-team trade:

To Ottawa: Cheechoo ($3 mil), Plekanec ($2.75 mil), Christian Ehrhoff ($2.75 mil), Montreal's 3rd round pick in 2010
To Montreal: Marleau ($6.3 mil), San Jose's 2nd round pick in 2010
To San Jose: Heatley ($7.5 mil), Halak ($750,000),Jason Smith ($2.75 million), Montreal's 4th round pick in 2011 and 5th round pick in 2010


In Cheechoo and Plekanec, Ottawa gains two skilled forwards who are capable of playing top-6 minutes on the Senators' scoring lines. With these additions, Ottawa now adds a play-making center for their second line in Plekanec, and a natural goal scorer to play alongside Jason Spezza.

Although the Senators have a number of defenceman on the roster, they lack a puck moving blueliner who is capable of leading the rush. Last season Ottawa's breakout plays from the defensive zone were hardly adequate. Without a solid puck moving rearguard, the Senators ranked 23rd in the league in goals for per game and 26th in the league in 5 on 5 play. With the acquisition of Ehrhoff, Ottawa adds a puck-moving defenceman who can quarterback the power play and log major minutes...something that they so desperately need.

When was the last time Montreal had size down the middle? Despite adding Scott Gomez at the number one center position along with wingers Mike Cammalleri and Brian Gionta, media pundits and fans alike began calling "Les Habitants", "Les Hobbitants". By adding Marleau, the Canadiens would finally snatch the big center they have always coveted. At 6'2" and 220 pounds, Marleau brings size, leadership, and skill to an overhauled Habs team. Marleau also has blazing speed that would compliment an already fast forward group and a sound two-way game that would fit well in Jacques Martin's structured system.

When San Jose was eliminated from the playoffs (for the umpteenth time), GM Doug Wilson emphatically stated that he would be shaking up his roster during the off-season. And he would do so by adding some much needed bite to a Sharks team that had very little. Adding Dany Heatley would give the Sharks a true sniper to play alongside Joe Thornton and Smith would be a defensive specialist on the blueline.

Among the uncertain futures in San Jose is that of Evgeni Nabokov's. In various media reports GM Doug Wilson has not stated that he intends to re-sign Nabokov, while Nabokov has said he is willing to waive his no-trade clause. With no depth in the organization between the pipes, the addition of Halak will give the Sharks a young netminder who is capable of being the Sharks new tender should Wilson let Nabokov walk in 2010-2011. By acquiring him now, this allows Wilson to get a good look at Halak to see if he is up to the task should Nabokov leave.

Taking a look at the cap differences, Ottawa and San Jose actually reduce their payroll while Montreal hardly increases theirs.

Ottawa: $10.25 mil --> $8.5 mil = -$1.75 mil (net loss)
Montreal: $3.5 mil --> $6.3 mil = +$2.8 mil (net gain)
San Jose: $12.05 --> $11 mil = -$1.5 mil (net loss)

For Ottawa, it's a win-win-win situation. The Senators acquire young talent that can contribute this season, they put an end to the Dany Heatley saga once and for all, and free up cap space which they need to do by the time the puck drops on opening night.

In Montreal's case, they add an excellent 1st/2nd line center who is an upgrade over Thomas Plekanec. Montreal would be strong and gritty down the middle for the first time in years with Gomez, Marleau, Lapierre, and Chipchura all over 200 lbs.

For the Sharks, San Jose gets the makeover that GM Doug Wilson wanted, and they do so by adding a lethal scoring winger while freeing up cap space. In addition, they add a veteran defensive defenceman in Jason Smith who has great size and loves to use it. Moreover, he would bring that 'bite' to the Sharks lineup and is an excellent leader by example.

With Marleau's $6.3 mil contract expiring at the end of the season, Gainey will have flexibility to negotiate a new contract with Price (as mentioned, an RFA who will be subject to offer sheets) and still have the ability to re-sign Marleau (who is only 29) to a contract extension for less money (for e.g., 4 year, $20 mil contract). If this were the type of deal Marleau should accept, Cammalleri, Gomez, Gionta and Marleau would all be unrestricted free agents following the 2013-2014 season, allowing the Canadiens to start fresh on another one of Bob Gainey's '5-year plan'.

Looking at each team's new scoring lines:

Montreal's top 6:

Kostitsyn-Gomez-Gionta
Pacioretty- Marleau- Cammalleri

Ottawa's top 6:

Cheechoo- Spezza- Alfredsson
Foligno- Plekanec- Kovalev

San Jose's top 6:

Setoguchi- Thornton- Heatley
Clowe- Pavelski- Michalek


Bottom line: All teams involved have a better top 6 than what they had before this trade. Ottawa dumps an unhappy Heatley and goes from a one-line team to two legitimate scoring lines, Montreal adds size and skill up the middle, and San Jose finally gets that sniper they have always wanted and the grit they've needed.

In addition, with these moves, Ottawa falls just below the cap (which they need to do before the season begins) while San Jose also saves a bit of money, and Montreal has the cap space to absorb the extra $2.8 mil.

Now it's up the general managers to make this happen.

The Day You've All Been Waitng For...

After a 4 month hiatus, I'm back. Check in regularly for my newest pieces on the National Hockey League.

We have a lot to catch up on.

Christos

The Best of the Best

With the 2008-09 campaign almost under wraps, there have been plenty of headlines that have taken center ice. From headshots and fighting to the effects of the economy on American markets, there has been plenty of controversy (and entertainment) these past 6 months. That being said, let's have some fun and hand out some hardware to the NHL's best.


Art Ross Trophy (top point scorer in the NHL)

Nominees: Evgeni Malkin (PIT) (leads league with 97 points)

And the winner is.... Evgeni Malkin

Malkin continued his dominance from last season and proved that Sidney Crosby wasn't the only big name in Pittsburgh. Malkin has taken the point-scoring race by the horns and leads the league with 97 points in only 71 games, on pace to crack the 110 point mark. If only Malkin had a dominate winger to play with (much like Crosby's situation) we could potentially be linking him to the Hart Memorial trophy as well.

Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (qualities of perseverance and sportsmanship)

Nominees: Steve Sullivan (NAS), Patrice Bergeron (BOS), Richard Zednik (FLA)

And the winner is.... Richard Zednik (FLA)

After teammate Olli Jokinen accidentally cut Zedník's external carotid artery with his right skate blade in February 2008, doctors were unsure if Zednik would ever play another game in the National Hockey League. Fast-forward to this season, and Zednik is back with the Panthers fighting for a playoff spot. In his first game back, he dished out two assists and is on pace for his best season in five years.

Calder Memorial Trophy (rookie of the year)

Nominees: Bobby Ryan (ANA), Drew Doughty (LA), Steve Mason (CLB)

And the winner is.... Steve Mason

Coming out of nowhere this season, Steve Mason has rocketed the Columbus Blue Jackets from bottom-feeder to playoff team in the Western Conference standings. At only 20 years of age, Mason is ranked 3rd in the league with a 2.24 GAA with a sparkling 0.920 save percentage. Also taking note that Mason leads the league with 9 shutouts and is on pace to crack 30 wins, and it is easy to see that the Calder trophy is really no-contest. Mason wins hands down.

Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year)

Nominees: Claude Julien (BOS), Todd McLellan (SJ), Brent Sutter (NJ)

And the winner is....Claude Julien (BOS)

After squeaking into the 2008 playoffs only to be eliminated in the first round, expectations were not high heading into the 2008-09 season for the B’s. However, the Bruins took the Canadiens to seven games in last year's opening round in what was a preview of things to come in 2009. Julien instilled a hard-nosed attitude in his players and has taken a team that was not expected to make the playoffs into a Stanley Cup final favorite. Guiding the team to a 45-17-9 record with only 11 games to go, Julien has locked up the Jack Adams.

James Norris Memorial Trophy (top defenceman in the NHL)

Nominees: Zdeno Chara (BOS), Dan Boyle (SJ), Mike Green (WAS)

And the winner is.... Mike Green (WAS)

This will be a hotly contested race down to the wire with all candidates worthy of this award. If the nomination list could be longer, it would certainly include the names of Nik Lidstrom and Shea Weber among others. That being said, Mike Green has 60 points in 57 games, with 16 on the powerplay to lead all defenceman in scoring. On top of all that, Green is +20 and averaging 26 minutes a game. Although Green doesn't fit the typical bill of an intimidating, physical force on the blueline, he more than makes up for it with his tremendous offensive ability and consistent defensive play.

Vezina Trophy (top goalie in the NHL)

Nominees: Tim Thomas (BOS), Niklas Backstrom (MIN), Evgeni Nabakov (SJ)

And the winner is....Tim Thomas

Tim Thomas will finally get his due when he is named the top goaltender in the NHL. Often criticized for his unorthodox style, Thomas has silenced his critics for a second straight season and deserves credit for his accomplishments. Leading the league in both save percentage and GAA while notching 30 wins should finally be good enough to put some hardware on his mantle.

Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (player who displays gentlemanly conduct)

Nominees: Zach Parise (NJ), Pavel Datsyuk (Det), Martin St. Louis (TB)

And the winner is....Pavel Datsyuk

It looks as though Pavel Datsyuk will finally be getting some competition after locking up his third consecutive Lady Byng Trophy last season. Zach Parise has been exceptional in 2008-09 and will look to interrupt Datsyuk's winning streak. Leading his team with 82 points in 68 games with only 22 penalty minutes, Parise is coming into his own as one of the league's rising stars.

Frank J. Selke Trophy (top defensive forward in the NHL)

Nominees: Mikko Koivu (MIN), Pavel Datsyuk (DET), Mike Richards (PHI)

And the winner is.... Mike Richards

Mike Richards has been an outstanding leader for the Philadelphia Flyers and will look to win his first Selke at only 24 years old. With 71 points (in 65 games) and 122 hits (8th among centers), Richards is the consummate teammate and will be a fixture among Selke candidates for years to come.

Hart Memorial Trophy (NHL most valuable player)

Nominees: Alexander Ovechkin (WAS), Jarome Iginla (CAL), Evgeni Malkin (PIT)

And the winner is.... Alexander Ovechkin

Combining lethal scoring ability with physical play is not a common package, but for Alexander Ovechkin it's the only way the game of hockey is played. Leading the league in goals, powerplay goals, game-winning goals, and currently third in the league scoring race should be enough to vault Ovechkin to his second Hart trophy. In addition, Ovechkin has led his team to the top of the Southeast division and the Capitals are considered an early favorite for the East finals. Still not enough? He sits seventh in the league with 222 hits. I rest my case.

After being a staple in 'The Baron' for three consecutive years, "Christos' Corner: The Puck Stops Here" has made its final appearance in UNBSJ's student newspaper. With this in mind, I would like to thank all of you, the readers. I hope you have enjoyed reading each article over the past three years as much as I have enjoyed writing them.

However, have no fear- "The Puck Stops Here" will continue to be available online at www.christoscorner.blogspot.com. Now, let's all sit back and enjoy the 2009 playoffs.


Christos

Deadline Day: Just who is on the move?

The day that hockey fans have been patiently waiting for has arrived; the 2009 NHL trade deadline is finally upon us. General Managers and executives scrambling, phones ringing off the hook, and players catching planes to other cities- boy, is the trade deadline a fun-filled day or what? If not for the NHL teams, players, and executives, deadline day sure is an exciting marathon for the fans. There will be the expected trades, the shocking trades, and there will be the anticipated trades that never came to fruition by the time the clock strikes 3pm ET.

It is now time to take a look at some popular names that appear to be on the trading block, and find out just who is on the move and who is staying put.


Nik Antropov - the asking price for Nik Antropov is a first round pick according to GM Brian Burke; perhaps too much for a 2nd line winger who hasn't lived up to expectations in Toronto. Antropov will be dealt, but it remains to be seen if Burke receives a first round pick in return.

Jay Bouwmeester- simply put, the Panthers have a chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2000. Unless GM Jacques Martin can get valuable pieces back as well as prospects and high draft picks, Martin will hold on to Bouwmeester and battle for a playoff position.

Thomas Kaberle- GM Brian Burke was initially ready to set Kaberle loose for a first rounder and a bluechip prospect, but I think it would be smart for Burke to hold on to Kaberle and his relatively cheap contract for another year.

Vincent Lecavalier- no chance Tampa Bay deals Lecavalier. They've already made a mess of the situation publicly, and at 10-years for $85 million, many teams want nothing to do with that contract given the economic climate.

Chris Pronger- although a solid playoff performer, he still has 1 year left at $6.25 million; perhaps too much for some teams. Scott Niedermayer, a UFA, is a more viable option for teams seeking a top blueliner. Both are unlikely to be dealt.

Marian Gaborik- unlikely that teams will be lining up for the injury-riddled Gaborik, but there may be a few teams willing to take a gamble. 50/50 chance Gaborik gets dealt.

Martin St. Louis- as we've seen already this season, anything can happen in Tampa Bay. However, I doubt management will part with one of their better players. Even if they wanted to, the ex- Saint John Flame has a no-trade clause. St. Louis is part of the solution in Tampa Bay, not the problem.

Antoinne Vermette- undoubtedly on the move. Teams in the market for secondary scoring, energy and penalty killing will look to Vermette. GM Brian Murray will ship him to the West Coast (perhaps to the Columbus Blue Jackets who lack depth at center). Look for Christoph Schubert to join Vermette leaving Ottawa.

Ryan Whitney- rumored in a trade with Montreal that would send Kovalev to Pittsburgh. Whitney will be moved at the deadline in exchange for a scoring winger but not to Montreal.

Olli Jokinen- Jokinen hasn't worked out in 'the desert', so a change of scenery is a very likely scenario for the Finnish center. A team like Montreal is looking for depth at his position, so Jokinen could fit the bill alongside fellow countrymen Saku Koivu.

Derek Morris- a UFA at season's end, it is very likely Morris will be dealt. A team looking for blueline depth are the New York Rangers, but the blueshirts will need to free up cap space first.

Jason Blake- has bounced back after a disappointing 2007-08 season, but carries a hefty price tag of $4.5 million for three more years. Burke will try to move Blake, but will find no takers.

Ryan Smythe- carries a no-trade clause and long-term deal, and has expressed no interest in leaving Colorado. Smythe will stay put in Colorado.

Niklas Backstrom- a UFA at season's end, GM Doug Risebrough will look to move Backstrom for depth up front. Possible destination is Philadelphia- a team that has shown inconsistency between the pipes.

Kari Lehtonen- another goalie that could be on the move to Philadelphia.

Eric Cole- the Oilers have grown impatient with Cole and it looks like he will be out the door. Boston and Pittsburgh could be potential destinations.

Alex Kovalev- there are still question marks surrounding the future of Montreal's enigma, Alex Kovalev. The clutch playoff performer could fetch a decent return, but Gainey plays his cards close to his chest. It's anyone's guess what happens to 'AK27'. More than likely he will remain with the Habs after 3pm ET.

Mark Recchi- will be on the move to a playoff team seeking grit on the wing. Possible destinations include the Bruins and Devils.

Chris Neil- contract talks have stalled with Ottawa GM Brian Murray. It is more than likely that Neil will be dealt. Look for the Calgary Flames to make a pitch for this rugged winger.

Tim Connolly- for the right price Buffalo will ship Connolly out west. A good fit would be the Columbus Blue Jackets who are looking for depth at center.

Pavel Kubina- has a no-trade clause and hefty salary. Brian Burke must just love the contracts John Ferguson Jr. handed out as ex-Leafs' GM. Kubina will be moved but only after the Leafs miss the playoffs when his no-trade clause expires.

Keith Tkachuk- a solid two-way center who will be in demand at deadline day, provided that he waives his no-trade clause. If Tkachuk decides to waive the clause, he will be on the move to a Stanley Cup contender.

However the day unfolds, fans will certainly be glued to the tube and will have plenty to talk about in the coming weeks following the 2009 NHL trade deadline.

Expensive, long-term contracts hinder player movement

With the NHL trade deadline only two weeks away, general managers are analyzing their rosters in hopes of either making a playoff run this season or rebuilding for the next. It is undoubtedly one of the most exciting days in the NHL calendar, but will it live up to the hype this season?

Following the implementation of the salary cap for the 2005-06 season, parity in the NHL standings has been a common theme since the 2004-05 lockout. More teams are staying in the playoff hunt longer, and even more teams are unwilling to deal away their season in hopes of partaking in the National Hockey League's 'second season'. The standings in both the Eastern and Western Conference couldn't be any closer, specifically in the West. Only 9 points separate teams seeded 5 through 15, which should make for an exciting conclusion to the regular season. But could this parity be having a negative effect on the amount of movement at the trade deadline? Despite the 75 deadline day trades that have taken place since the lockout, very few have been blockbuster moves involving big name players...and even fewer have involved long-term contracts.

With the playoffs a realistic goal for many teams this season, most general managers will be apprehensive about dealing away big name players. Despite the rumors involving Vincent Lecavalier, Jason Spezza and Jay Bouwmeester, the field of potential trade prospects is extremely limited. Besides the fact that most teams are in the playoff hunt, the abundance of long term deals handed out over the past three seasons is proving detrimental to player movement. In these tough economic times, general managers and owners are hesitant to accept long-term deals that may prove to be a burden years down the road.

Take for example Vincent Lecavalier. In the off-season, Lecavalier signed an 11-year $85 million contract. Trade talk involving Lecavalier has heated up during the past few months, but realistically very few teams are considering adding an 11-year contract. Not only do many teams not want to have anything to do with Lecavalier's long-term deal, but many cannot even afford him. No general manager is going to give up too much for a player who - no matter how good - will seriously damage their roster flexibility. Thus, it is easy to see that the long-term deals, not the salary cap, are handcuffing teams in the post-lockout era.

It is now very common for teams to dish out long-term contracts; if a team has a superstar on their hands, a new long-term deal is inevitable. Mike Richards (12 years, $69-million), Rick DiPietro (15 years, $67.5-million), Alex Ovechkin (13 years, $124-million) and Henrik Zetterberg (12-year, $73-million) are just a handful of players with lengthy contracts, but that's just scratching the surface. From five year deals to fifteen year deals, the lengthy contracts that are becoming a staple in the NHL are limiting a general manager's flexibility. Glen Sather of the New York Rangers knows all too well the consequences of long-term contracts. With the salary cap at $56.7 million and likely to decrease next season, the New York Rangers have only 9 players signed through next season at a whopping $41,158,810. That leaves Glen Sather less than $15 million to sign 13 players. And unless Sather plans on finding 13 players willing to accept no more than $1 million contracts, Sather has mere months to reconfigure his roster. So how did Sather find himself in this situation? Simple- he signed Chris Drury (5 years, $35.25 million), Scott Gomez (7 years, $51.5 million) Henrik Lundqvist (6 years, $41.25 million, and Wade Redden (6 years, $39 million) to monstrous deals.

No one really knows what the result of long-term deals will be down the road, or whether the NHL plans on stepping in to rectify the situation. However, the short-term consequences are inevitable. Some teams will be scrambling to dump salary, but finding no takers. Others will lose free agents through long-term contract demands from players, and others such as the Rangers might not even be able to fill their roster come the 2009-2010 season. And all of these problems are directly related to the epidemic of long-term contracts.

Less than two weeks away and the hoopla and excitement surrounding deadline day is just as prominent as in years past. Yet a big question mark with regards to how many deals will actually be made looms over March 4th. Whether or not blockbuster deals are made, the NHL has certainly caused unnecessary frustration in general managers and less excitement for the fans on what should always be the most exciting day of the regular season. If the National Hockey League wants to increase player movement throughout the regular season and bring excitement back to deadline day (not just the weeks leading up to it), then it is about time the NHL implement a cap on long-term deals.

Memo to Bettman: America Doesn't Care

When Gary Bettman became commissioner of the National Hockey League in 1993, the NHL began to focus much of its efforts on 'Americanizing' the game by reaching out to every corner of North America. The key to growing the game, they insisted, was to tap into all possible American markets and expand, expand, expand. Fast forward to 2009, and it is easy to see that the commissioner forgot about the business principle, 'location, location, location'- now he's learning that lesson the hard way. And no, Gary Bettman's crucial mistakes cannot be redeemed by changing the shape of a goal post.

Meanwhile, across the border where hockey talk rules the water cooler, Canadians have been patiently waiting...and waiting...and waiting some more. After placing franchises in Tampa Bay, Florida, Phoenix, Nashville, and Atlanta, Canadians were waiting for Bettman to unveil a new franchise for the country that lives and breathes hockey.

This past December, Canadians got an answer from Bettman with regards to expanding the game in Canada.

"Can the Ontario market support another team? Probably, but you can't base a decision on probability. You have got to study the market closely."

Perhaps Mr. Bettman should follow his own advice, and practice what he preaches. Isn't it safe to say that Bettman put the cart before the horse when expanding into the southern US? Did he really believe that markets such as Florida, Phoenix and Atlanta would flourish? If Bettman was the one who studied the market in Atlanta and believed Georgians would feel that hockey was the greatest thing since sliced bread, then NHL executives must ask themselves if this is the man who should lead the NHL in tough economic times.

Since the lockout, many of the NHL's new hockey markets are suffering and are in financial peril; revenues, attendance, and viewership are all down. Now that Bettman is seeing for himself how his expansion aspirations have not worked out according to plan, he has redirected his efforts on changing the game itself. For the past three seasons, the NHL has continued to brainstorm ideas on how to make the game more exciting for its non-traditional hockey markets. However, it is important for the NHL to realize that changes off the ice are just as important (if not more) than changes to the rulebook.

For a game that has the tradition of baseball, athleticism of basketball and the toughness of football, it is hard to believe that hockey is not as popular as other sports in America. However, the commissioner needs to understand that not everyone will welcome hockey with open arms...even if he does decide to change the size of the net. It was his decisions regarding off-ice issues that Bettman and his NHL are paying for now- and boy are they ever paying.

Is there any shame in accepting that some American markets simply don't like hockey? If the National Hockey League wants success, they have to go to successful markets, regardless of the territory. The NHL has to jump over this mental hurdle and face it- Americans don't love hockey as much as they love their football and baseball. Gary Bettman's decisions on new franchises shouldn't be driven by the all mighty dollar; rather, he should inject hockey into markets that crave it.

Moreover, the league needs to contract to 26 teams; eliminate the Phoenix Coyotes, Florida Panthers, Atlanta Thrashers and Tampa Bay Lightning and relocate the Nashville Predators to Winnipeg. With this transition there will be fewer (but better) teams, and making the playoffs will become more of a realistic goal for all franchises. Teams would be more competitive, and owners would be more inclined to measure success by the number of games won rather than the number of 'Benjamins' in their pockets.

Secondly, the National Hockey League needs a new television deal. The 2008-2009 NHL season is currently being played, but is not being watched. The day when ESPN cut ties with the NHL and discontinued airing hockey games was a huge step back for Bettman's plan of Americanizing the game. Since moving to a much smaller network, Versus, the league has lost a great deal of exposure. This issue has nothing to do with how exciting the game of hockey is, but was rather a terrible off-ice decision that the NHL is now paying dearly for. How can Gary Bettman possibly expect the casual fan to watch hockey when the game isn't being broadcast on a major American sports station? Memo to Bettman: return to ESPN and get your highlights back on SportsCenter.

However, as much as the commissioner needs to accept that some parts of America don't want hockey, fans of the game also need to realize who the real Gary Bettman is. Bettman serves at the pleasure of the league's owners- not the league, not the players, and certainly not the fans. When Bettman speaks of the game, he is not referring to the one that fans watch on the ice. No, he is referring to the one played by the owners of NHL teams. To owners, the winner is the owner who stuffs his pockets with more dollar bills than any other. So long as each owner is happy and making money, so too will Gary Bettman.

As long as Bettman is at the helm, fans can expect little change regarding off-ice issues, and will once again be subject to a number of empty ideas on how the NHL can make America love hockey. Unfortunately for the NHL, despite Bettman's countless attempts to court America, it looks like he will never take the hint.

It's Time to Blow the Whistle on Fighting in Hockey

Shortly after the dawn of the New Year, tragedy struck in Ontario that shook the foundation of the hockey world. Don Sanderson, a 21-year old player with the Whitby Dunlops of an Ontario senior hockey league, ended up losing the fight for his life after spending three weeks in a coma as a result of a routine hockey fight. It was a hockey fight that started like any other, yet finished with unprecedented consequences. Hockey's worst fear was realized.

Was there any doubt that this day would eventually come? For years analysts and hockey pundits have been warning the sport that someone would tragically lose their life as a result of the NHL’s ignorance. Now, the echoes of such pundits have resonated in the ears of every hockey fan, player, and executive alike from top to bottom in the National Hockey League. After years of debating the act of fighting in hockey, the discussion has once again come to the forefront following the death of a young man who was simply playing by the rules. And if the NHL doesn’t do anything about it, no one will.

Is fighting really worth it? After all, isn’t hockey just a game? Is such a small facet of a sport worth the life of a young man who lost his life playing a game that would have normally praised his efforts? Doesn’t the National Hockey League bear some sort of responsibility for this tragedy by promoting a good hockey fight as much as the league promotes a fast, high-scoring game? These are all questions that need to be answered before it is too late- but unfortunately that no longer applies to the situation.

While it is hard to believe that fighting will ever be banned in the NHL, some light must be shed on signifying that fighting is not necessary for the growth and success of the National Hockey League as some suggest.

Instead of disputing whether fighting in hockey should or should not be prohibited, the question we must ask ourselves is if it’s really all worth it. Fans, players, and executives need to dig deep and ask themselves if they are willing to accept another potential fatality as a consequence of fighting. Where must we draw the line between the violence on the ice that too many fans crave for their entertainment, and death? One fight is too many...because one death is too many. Fighting has always been apart of hockey. Perhaps it is time that changes.

Why is the NHL so reluctant to outlaw fighting? Of the four most successful sporting leagues in the western world, (NBA, NFL, MLB, and the NHL), the National Hockey League dons the notorious label of being the only league that essentially promotes fighting- even to the point of emphasizing that fighting is essential to the game. Many advocates of fighting state that fighting is part of the game and that it puts people in the stands. Some even go further suggesting that if it were to be banned, the NHL would lose its appeal. However, the NHL ratings in the United States have been slumping for years, while fighting has been increasing (up 22% this season) so clearly fighting is not holding America’s attention. In Florida and Phoenix, fans still turn their backs on free tickets and are struggling to make ends meet. The NHL is naïve to cling to the belief that a fan watches hockey for the mere chance to see a 30-second hockey tilt between two goons. And in Canada, where hockey is the predominant sport in the country, would Canadians actually turn off their TV sets if the NHL were to forbid two players from dropping their gloves? Sure, a hockey fight is exciting and often lifts people from their seats, but would hockey fans discontinue watching the sport if that rare, quick fight were removed from the game? The question now becomes, how many fans would not watch or attend a game if the possibility of a fight was dramatically reduced? I dare say, not even one.

Even if such a ban were to be implemented, it is inevitable that fans would still witness a fight from time to time when tempers flared and emotions were running high. Even baseball has bench clearing brawls during the course of the season, but you don’t see baseball parading around and declaring that it is simply the ‘culture’ of the game.

The 2007 Stanley Cup Finals, featuring the Anaheim Ducks and Ottawa Senators drew the lowest Stanley Cup Finals ratings in US history. Both Anaheim and Ottawa ranked 2nd and 3rd in game misconducts respectively, with Anaheim leading the league in fighting majors with 71. The following year, the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals featured the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins, who combined for 72 fighting majors during the course of the 2007-08 season (one more than the Anaheim Ducks of 2007). Yet the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals (with two of the highest scoring and least penalized teams) drew one of the highest Stanley Cup ratings ever.

It goes without saying that fights can add entertainment value, change the course of a game and have fans talking for days. But the clichéd notion that fighting is essential and that players can police themselves is empty. There are rules in other sports, and players in other leagues play by the rules. If the NHL wanted to eliminate fighting, the league could do it in a second. But they don’t, because they believe it would put less money in their pockets and no longer appeal to the ‘casual’ fan.

All fans of the game know that a hockey game in the playoffs (where fights are dramatically down) is more exciting than the rest of the regular season where fights per game are roughly 6 times higher. Take for example the recent World Juniors tournament- not a single fight in any of the games, yet some of the most memorable games some of us will ever see (look no further than the Russia-Canada semifinal). Given how much emotion and passion is exhibited in playoff hockey and international competitions, the argument that fighting is essential in venting emotions can easily be pushed aside. If the NHL is serious about growing the league in the United States, it needs to realize that it doesn’t need fighting to sell itself.

Others believe that fighting in hockey is a tradition and that rules change of such magnitude would be altering the face of the game. Conversely, the National Football League has embraced change for the betterment of the game and safety of its players. The NFL has made 14 rule changes in the past decade which include an increased emphasis on protecting the passer. In the 1950s, when grabbing an opponent’s facemask, hits to the back of the head were legal, and quarterbacks often had no rules that would protect them from dangerous hits, the NFL instituted rule changes that would protect quarterbacks after many suffered injuries. Despite these rule changes, the NFL still flourished and is now North America’s most successful professional sporting league.

For years, NHL executives have been trying to think of new ways to improve the game- bigger nets, smaller goalie equipment, etc… But when it comes to changing the game for the safety of its players (such as visor issues, softer shoulder and elbow pads, no-touch icing, and decreasing hits to the head), the NHL has sat back and turned a blind eye. This is a league that tells the public and its fans that it wants to take head shots out of the league, while on the ice it allows two heavyweights to exchange blows at will. The NHL now has the media spotlight on them after a horrific tragedy. They should take this opportunity to at least show the world that they are a responsible league who takes safety seriously. If they don't do anything about it now, then when will they? Judging by their track record with regards to player safety, it looks like they will let this discussion quietly pass them by… until the next GM meeting when they will once again place more emphasis on increasing scoring rather than looking out for the safety of their players.

Sanderson's death was accidental, but easily avoidable. Maybe someday the NHL will realize that the safety of its players is the only fight worth fighting for.

Under Pressure: Montreal's Pursuit of their 25th Stanley Cup

There are very few professional sports teams that bear the enormous pressure the "Bleu, Blanc and Rouge" face each and every season. With 24 Stanley Cups, 42 Hall-of-Famers and 13 retired numbers, the Montreal Canadiens are hockey's most storied franchise. From the famous childhood book "The Sweater" to the new Canadiens centennial DVD, the Montreal Canadiens have produced some of the greatest players of all-time and have been part of some of the most memorable games in NHL history. This season, the pressure to win their 25th Stanley Cup has reached its climax as the Habs celebrate their 100th birthday. The team has embarked on a season-long journey in hopes of ending their birthday celebration with a bang... raising their 25th Stanley Cup banner high into the Bell Centre rafters. Only time will tell if the ghosts of the Bell Centre will guide the Canadiens to what could be a very magical season... one thing is for sure- the entire hockey world will be watching. And to make sure they do, they've purchased the biggest TV scoreboard in hockey for the entire world to watch them celebrate.

The Canadiens certainly know how to throw a birthday bash with all the bells and whistles. A Canadiens Hall of Fame in the Bell Centre, DVD box sets, commemorative coins, stamps, the launch of Centennial Plaza, hosting the 2009 All-Star game and 2009 NHL Entry draft, numerous jersey retirement nights, and the opening of a $500,000 state-of-the-art outdoor hockey rink are just some of the birthday celebrations. Heck, Hasbro has even joined the celebration and released a limited edition Canadiens Monopoly board game.

However, any Canadiens fan can tell you the only game they care about is the one played on the ice. With the pride associated with donning a Canadiens jersey also comes the pressure of playing in hockey’s hotbed. It was not that long ago when some Canadiens fans were booing their favorite team from the Bell Centre stands due to years of mediocrity throughout the mid to late 1990’s. Nevertheless, shortly after the turn of the 21^st century the Canadiens turned the page on mediocrity and ushered in a new era in Canadiens history. An era, that would hopefully see them raise yet another Stanley Cup giving the club a championship in every decade of their existence. The man who took over the helm and was expected to lead them to the promise land was Canadiens legend Bob Gainey. When Gainey was hired as Montreal’s new general manager in 2003 he promised Habs fans that the Canadiens would be a Stanley Cup contender by 2009…. and he certainly lived up to his word. After gradually rebuilding the Canadiens core, Montreal fans could be heard uttering, “In Bob we Trust”.

After capturing the Eastern Conference crown last season, Bob Gainey knew the Canadiens needed to make the next step and ‘go big or go home’ in 2008-09. Gainey brought in talented winger Alex Tanguay, heavyweight Georges Laraque, and veteran center Robert Lang to give the Canadiens a much needed injection of toughness and leadership. The moves are paying huge dividends so far as all three new arrivals are contributing to one of the best starts in Canadiens franchise history. What began as mere hope of being a contender for their birthday bash has quickly turned into a reality that has the potential of becoming a dream come true by season’s end for both the organization and its fans. If it was not clear to the NHL before this season, it should be by now: Montreal is the temple of hockey, and hockey is Montreal’s religion.

When the puck drops on the Habs official birthday (December 4th vs. the New York Rangers) there will be something special in the air. Every fan in attendance will take with them after the game the feeling of being part of history… and be able to forever say, "I was there."

Why the NHL won't work in Europe

Following what was a successful opening weekend in Europe to kick off the 2007-08 NHL campaign, the discussion regarding expansion to Europe has been front and center back in North America. With roughly 30% of the league's players born in Europe and the increased interest shown overseas since the lockout in 2005, it is difficult to avoid the obvious potential for NHL expansion in some of Europe's most prominent hockey countries.

Whether or not the NHL has serious intentions of eventually expanding to Europe remains to be seen. But one thing is for certain, and that is that Gary Bettman is testing the waters. After beginning two successful consecutive seasons across the pond, there is no doubt that it is clear to Bettman that there are both strong markets and strong fan bases in Europe to support permanent NHL franchises. Bettman has to now ask himself the question "Should I stay or should I go" (to quote The Clash).

Although it is easy to get caught up in the hoopla of saying 'yes' to Europe, there are many logistical and economic issues that still have be discussed and resolved before the NHL breaks ground in Europe. And despite the strong interest from the NHLPA, there are too many reasons why the NHL will not be feasible nor sustainable in Europe... whether it is 2013 or 2030.

Assessing the growth and success of the game in North America is where the discussion must begin. Since being appointed commissioner of the NHL in 1993, Gary Bettman has increased league revenues from $400 million to $2.2 billion in just under 15 years. With the increased revenue, Gary Bettman also established six new franchises for the league in non-traditional hockey markets such as Nashville, Florida, and Atlanta. However, despite the increased popularity of the game since 1993, the NHL has been forced into two labor stoppages, terrible television deals, and is now witnessing many of their expansion franchises crumbling with shrinking revenues and declining fan bases. Gary Bettman's attempt to 'Americanize' the game of hockey has resulted in a handful of hockey markets barely hanging on to their NHL lives. Of the four major sport leagues in North America (the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL), the National Hockey League has the smallest total fan base, the smallest revenue from television, and the least sponsorship of the four leagues. In sum, the NHL isn't in the best shape.

Therefore, before the NHL even discusses the possibility of expanding to Europe, the NHL must first solidify the North American game. The NHL should consider going back to strong Canadian markets like Winnipeg and Quebec and fix the game in the Southern states (even if the league must relocate these franchises) . Only once the North American game is strong can Bettman consider expansion overseas. By stabilizing the North American game, the NHL would ensure that it would not fail in both Europe and in North America if it were to attempt expansion.

As for obstacles, another serious problem is the existence of the KHL in Russia. Gary Bettman has previously stated that the National Hockey League will monitor how the KHL project evolves over the next ten years. If the KHL can succeed by establishing expansion teams in Finland, Germany and Sweden, then the NHL might attempt to create a 'European division'. This could result in a full scale war between the KHL and NHL if they both intend on establishing new expansion teams. Not helping the NHL's cause is that the KHL has already established far stronger connections with European nations interested in expanding with the KHL . For the NHL to engage in a competition with the KHL would be a recipe for destruction of the NHL in North America . The NHL has to focus on strengthening their brand domestically, not jeopardize what they have built during these past two decades over a battle with the KHL.

Competing with the other Elite Leagues in Europe will also be another hurdle for the NHL. With countries like Sweden, Finland and and the Czech Republic already having leagues of their own, it won't be easy asking the stakeholders of different leagues to shell out large expansion fees for NHL based European teams that might not work. Going back to the idea of forming a "European Confernce", does the NHL really expect European fans to suddenly stop cheering for the teams they've supported for years and instead root for 'new franchises' established by the National Hockey League? If the KHL came over to the North America, would you expect Leafs or Habs fans to just throw out their jerseys and traditions and cheer for a newly formed team brought in by a foreign league? Please.

It is also hard to ignore the logistical issues of having NHL franchises in Europe. The four main obstacles that the NHL faces with expansion to Europe are the time differential, differences in currency, the traveling during the course of an 8 month schedule, and the possible division that would transpire between North American and European players wanting to stay in their respective continents.

It is clear that if the NHL does decide to expand overseas, organizing the NHL schedule and travel arrangements will be the most obvious challenge the league will face. The league already has difficulty leveling the playing field for teams in 3 times zones in North America, so expanding to Europe and adding more time zones would set the NHL up for failure. Home ice advantage would certainly take a new meaning.

Another issue is that some of the very good hockey markets in Europe do not use the Euro as currency. Countries like the Czech Republic, Sweden and Slovakia (among others) use their own currency, which would create a disaster with respect to the salary cap. As we saw in the past, the NHL had a very difficult time with two currencies dominating the league when the Canadian and American dollars were not as equivalent as they currently are today. Also taking into consideration the lack of stability in both the American and global economy, there would be too many risks involved given the market's uncertainty.

With respect to the fans of the game who will be watching on their televisions, how will the NHL expect fans to watch their favorite team when they are playing in different time zones? Getting fans to tune into games in North America is difficult as it is for the NHL, so expecting 'average Joe' to take an afternoon off work to go home and watch hockey isn't rational. If Bettman thinks he has a bad television deal with American broadcasters now, he won't find it any easier asking them to televise games during the afternoon. One also has to consider that unlike North America, Europe is dominated by one sport (soccer). Given that both the European Football (i.e. soccer) Leagues and the NHL both have the same off-season (during the summer months), the NHL would be in direct competition with the established soccer markets in European countries. If the NHL believes this is a head-to-head competition that hockey can win, they are cheating themselves of the truth.

There is another issue that must also be considered. With expansion, it is very likely that European born players who first enter the league will not have the desire to move to North America when they can stay close to home and play in Europe. Likewise, an 18 year old from North America would rather stay close to home and play for a North American based team. Gradually, the NHL would have teams that are largely European or North American depending on where they are based, which could have an impact on attendance and popularity of the game in North America. For example, many of the best European players in the NHL play an exciting, dynamic game that can be seen by the likes of Malkin, Ovechkin, Zetterberg, Kovalev, etc... the list goes on and on. If players of this caliber were to relocate to Europe, combined with the NHL schedule that would see them make few trips overseas periodically due to traveling issues, many casual NHL fans would not be exposed to some of the best players in the game. The same could be said regarding North American players making few trips to Europe. The variety of the types players seen both overseas and in North America would be restricted. This would make it tremendously difficult for the NHL to market their 'faces of the game', especially with the limited television exposure based on time zone differences.

These are just some of the issues that need to be addressed. Undoubtedly, more will arise (as with any risky endeavor) if the discussions become serious over the next few years. But it is clear that even if the NHL was serious about making a move in Europe, it would take many years before the first NHL franchises are established. Until then, the best option for Bettman (if he is intent on making a bigger splash in Europe) would be to have a European champion (if the Elite leagues agree to such a format) play the NHL champion at season's end to determine who is the world champion. Even that, however, would face challenges from Canadian hockey traditionalists. That being said, Bettman would be the first commissioner to take his league across the ocean in a game that would have the potential to appeal to hockey fans around the world. If it works, it has the potential to put the NHL on the map as the leading global sports league.

Of course the NHL has the potential and opportunity to expand overseas. The interest is there, the money is there, and NHL is certainly on the cusp of what could be jump-starting the future of global sporting leagues. However, the bottom line is that there are simply too many hurdles for the NHL at the present time. And with Gary Bettman barely clinging on to certain non-traditional markets in America (and his own job), it is highly unlikely that he will take a chance on further expansion when many are calling for his firing. Time will tell if the NHL makes their move to Europe in the next decade... but judging by their commitment to fix the game in North America, the league is in no rush.

Central Division Preview

Detroit Red Wings: 1st
Entering the 2008-09 NHL season, is anyone better than the Detroit Red Wings? After capturing their 11th Stanley Cup last season, the Red Wings became a whole lot better with a single free agent signing over the summer. General manager Ken Holland shelled out $7.4 million to sniper Marian Hossa, who will make Detroit's attack that much more potent. The signing of Hossa just gave the Red Wings 7.4 million more reasons why fans and critics alike should expect them to repeat as NHL champions in 2009.

Over the years, the Red Wings have built their reputation on one thing: a culture of winning. They have been crowned winners of the Central Division for the past 8 years, have won 4 Stanley Cups in 11 years, and have produced elite superstars each and every season. The likes of Datsyuk, Zetterberg, Lidstrom, Holmstrom, along with up-and-comers Filppula, Hudler and Franzen....the list goes on and on. So what should Red Wings fans expect in 2009? Simply put, more of the same.

Chicago Blackhawks: 6th

Ever since the turn of the 21st century, the Chicago Blackhawks have been one of the consistent bottom dwellers in the NHL standings. Two years ago, the Hawks found themselves finishing the 2006-07 season with the fourth worst record in the NHL. Surprisingly, they went on to win the draft lottery, and with just one draft pick, the fortunes of the team were changed immediately. After years of losing and bad ticket sales, the Blackhawks were ready to prove to the Chicago faithful that the team was serious about winning.

With young stars Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews leading the way, the Blackhawks finally have an identity; something they had been absent over the years. The Hawks reputation will rely on skill, speed and execution- a sign that the team is on its way up the Western Conference standings. Chicago is littered with young talent throughout the lineup, and the Blackhawks look like they are finally ready to make a trip to the NHL's second season...somewhere they haven't been since 2002.

Playing in perhaps the least competitive division in the entire NHL, the Blackhawks will certainly have their chance to make some noise in the Western Conference this year. The signing of Christobal Huet will give Chicago stability between the pipes (something they haven't seen in years), and the addition of Brian Campbell on the blue line will give the team a smart, gifted offensive defenceman who will bring leadership to the dressing room. The Hawks will also be expecting big things from young guns Cam Barker, Brent Seabrook, Duncan Keith and Patrick Sharp. If the Hawks stay healthy and Huet gives this young team a chance to win every night, the Hawks should find themselves playing hockey in May.

Nashville Predators: 11th
Each and every season, the expectations for the Predators have always been low from the hockey minds in the NHL. And year after year, the Predators have surprised many by not only making the playoffs, but doing so with two 100+ point seasons in the past three years. However, after a horrendous off-season in 2007, most of the Nashville lineup had been decimated. The Predators now find themselves with very few weapons up front, a back end that lacks depth, and an inexperienced goalie tandem between the pipes. The two bright spots for Nashville will be the devlepoment of young stud Shea Weber and the scoring tandem of JP Dumont and Jason Arnott.

The Predators will be hard pressed to sneak into the playoffs this season, but given their weak division there is still a chance. However, I wouldn't put my money on it. Look for Nashville to be the prey for most teams this season as they find themselves out of the playoff picture.

Columbus Blue Jackets: 14th

The Blue Jackets were certainly busy during the off-season, altering their lineup to give them a stronger defensive, rugged reputation. The Jackets brought in forwards Raffi Torres and RJ Umberger, and defencemen Mike Commodore, Christian Backman and Fedor Tyutin. Although the Jackets made huge strides in their team defensive game on paper, they also took a huge hit on the score sheet with the loss of Nikolai Zherdev. Acquiring Kristian Huselius over the summer could prove to be a decent move come season's end, but the jury is still out on the 29 year old Swede being a consistent contributor on the scoresheet. Once again, Rick Nash will be expected to lead the team in scoring and be the Blue Jackets only sniper up front. However, watch for the emergence of young centers Jakub Voracek and Derick Brassard; both are expected to make immediate impacts for Columbus as the team's number one and two centers respectively. With so many new faces, it will be interesting to see how this new, young team gels under coach Ken Hitchcock. The Jackets gained depth on the back end, but there are still question marks regarding their depth up front.

In their seven seasons since entering the league in 2000, Columbus has never finished higher than third place in Central Division and are the only NHL team to have never qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Unfortunately for Jackets fans, the team should once again find themselves on the outside looking in.

St. Louis Blues: 15th

After years of consistently making the playoffs, the Blues have taken a turn for the worst where they have gone from President's Trophy winners in 1997 to the League basement in just under 10 years. From 1980-2004, the Blues were a consistent staple in the Stanley Cup playoffs. But following some questionable trades in the post-lockout era, the Blues fell to the bottom of the standings and are now one of the weakest teams in the entire league. Looking ahead to 2008-09, expectations are not high for a team that is rebuilding. Young prospect T.J. Oshie will be given every chance to prove his worth to Blues management, and Brad Boyes will look to notch 40+ goals in an encore performance of last season. But beyond that, St. Louis will be singing the blues for most of their 82 game schedule. Perhaps management will hire B.B. King as the team's new mascot...