EURO CURVE

Euro Curve chronicles the latest international hockey news.

Writers Note: Euro Curve's 2008 World Junior Hockey Championship report is back after being absent for two days following the shocking 4-3 victory Sweden handed Team Canada on Saturday afternoon in Pardubice.


- Team Canada advanced to the quarter-finals with a 4-1 victory over lowly Denmark Monday afternoon. Now, this may not be the 10-0 victory that hardcore puckheads wanted, but it was a solid effort coming off the difficult loss to the Swedes. 17-year-old Oshawa Generals forward John Tavares added a goal and assist, and continued to show his array of offensive weaponry. Phoenix Coyotes draft pick Kyle Turris (University of Wisconsin) continued his strong play and has Coach Gretzky smiling. Goaltender Steve Mason played well enough between the pipes, facing only 16 shots, making a strong case to be get the next start between the pipes. Canada will now move on to the medal round to face the surging Yanks.

- Team Sweden beat Czech Republic 4-2 on Monday and finished the tournament with a perfect 4-0-0 record, winning Group A and earning a bye to the semi-finals. Oscar Moller of the WHL's Chilliwack Bruins has been especially impressive.


CANADA WINS SPENGLER CUP

- The game ended only two hours ago, but will still be enjoyed by Canuck fans as it is broadcast on tape-delay on Rogers Sportsnet later this afternoon. Canada beat Salavat Yulaev Ufa 2-1 on goals by Ryan Keller and Kirby Law, taking the tournament for the first time since 2003 and for the 11th time in the tournament's history. Canada won all five of their games, beating international club teams from Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic and Russia.


For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

EURO CURVE

Euro Curve chronicles the latest international hockey news.

Team Canada improved to 2-0-0 at the 2008 World Junior Hockey Championships in Pardubice with a quiet 2-0 victory over Team Slovakia on Thursday morning. It was the other games yesterday however which drew more attention. I discuss those as well as Friday's games in today's World Junior Hockey Championship/Spengler Cup report.

Team Canada will play an explosive Swedish squad tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. ET at the Pardubice Arena, a battle of two unbeaten teams. In the other marquee match-up, the host Czechs will play Slovakia at 10:00 a.m. ET at Pardubice Arena. This game will surely be one of the better games of the round robin tournament.

Other games tomorrow:

Kazakhstan vs. Finland, 10:00 a.m. ET., Tipsport Arena
Russia vs. USA, 2:00 p.m. ET., Tipsport Arena

Yesterday

- The Czech Republic responded from losing their first round-robin game to Canada by whooping lowly Denmark 5-2. 1st round draft picks Michael Frolik (Florida Panthers) and Jakub Voracek (Columbus Blue Jackets) each had impressive outings, not only registering on the scoresheet but by providing much needed leadership and poise for the home team. The Czechs were favoured going into this tournament because of their highly-talented forward corps and these two phenoms gave us a little taste of what they can bring.

- Russia seemed to take Kazakhstan rather lightly, winning 5-4. Alexei Cherepanov (2007 1st round draft pick of the New York Rangers) registered a goal in the game, making his NHL management and agents happy. Ditto for Finland, who needed a shootout to beat Switzerland? Yikes!


Friday

It was a light day at the WJC with only two games, one of which was a laugher. Sweden stomped Team Denmark 10-1. This is the first year that Denmark is in the top group at the World U-20 Junior Hockey Championships.

In the only other game, the United States defeated Switzerland 4-2 at the Tipsport Arena, with Philadelphia Flyers prospect James van Riemsdyk getting the game-winner.

- Team Canada is flying pretty high at the Spengler Cup hockey tournament after defeating HC Davos 6-2 Thursday afternoon. They are now 2-0 and look to stay undefeated when they host Salavat Yulaev Ufa on Saturday in Davos. Canada has meshed very quickly and are playing an extremely intelligent puck possession game. Serge Aubin and Yannick Tremblay played marvelously on Thursday, and are emerging as the co-offensive leaders on a talented Canuck squad.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

FROZEN ASSETS

HO HO HORRIBLE HOMESTANDS AND ROAD WARRIORS


Note: This article was written during the NHL Christmas break.



The holidays are meant to be a time to relax and reflect. That is why there are no NHL games scheduled for the 24th and 25th. We can relax knowing that certain teams we have bet on will put their inevitable tailspin on hold for a few days so we can eat turkey with family and friends. We can reflect on the bets we have made over the first 3 months of the season – the early season caterpillar of optimism that has not yet blossomed into the broken-winged butterfly of despair.


The last two weeks have seen a few of our favorite teams enter their cocoon and emerge with broken wings.


Columbus Blue Jackets:


The High:


After a decisive 3-0 win against St. Louis, I was convinced the Jackets were going to make a run this year. Ken Hitchcock had given the Blue Jackets a calm confidence, the Rick and Nik show was in full effect, and Pascal Leclaire was 7-2-0, leading the NHL with 5 shutouts. “Everyone’s just buying into the system and believing in Hitch’s game plan,” said Rick Nash.


Back to reality:


Now 15-14-6, Columbus is in 11th place, Rick Nash is “injured”, and Ken Hitchcock is going with the hot goaltender (right now it is Fredrik Norrena). Most disappointing has been the Blue Jackets’ play in December, where they are playing 11 out of 14 at home. So far they are 4-4-2 during a time where they needed to grab a firm hold of a playoff spot and hold on during a road heavy January and February.


Analysis:


I once loved the value Columbus provided at +12500 and +10000. Now I am trying desperately to “sell” my shares in Columbus (How I sell shares) at a betting exchange at -9000. Jeff Rimer and Danny Gare, our affair was brief and left a bad taste in my mouth. While Columbus is not out of contention, their path to the playoffs will be a steep uphill battle. Carib has Columbus available at +10000.


Boston Bruins


The High:


After a December 12 road win against the Thrashers, the Bruins were 17-10-3. Even more remarkable was that 19 of their first 30 games were on the road (10-7-2). The Bruins were playing a boring, gritty style of hockey, aided by the emergence of Marc Savard as a two-way forward (sorry Flames fans). They were available at +10000. Hopes were high as Boston began a 5-game homestand.


Back to Reality:


The Bruins finished their homestand 1-3-1, scoring their lone victory over (who else but) Columbus. They are currently 18-14-4 and on a four game losing streak. Two of those losses have come to eternal journeyman Ty Conklin. During this streak Boston has given up an average of four goals per game – not the results one would expect from a hockey club focusing on defense.


Analysis:


It’s not time to panic yet. The Bruins are still fourth in the conference, but in a suddenly tight Eastern Conference four points separate them from the thirteenth place Philadelphia Flyers (wait, weren’t the Flyers just leading the Atlantic?). Betsson is offering odds on the Bruins to win the Stanley Cup at +6000. I am selling my shares in the Bruins at -5000.


Honorable Mention:


Philadelphia Flyers – Sat Oct. 20, 6-1-0, last 6 games, 0-4-2. +3100 at Betfair.


From the ashes of our broken dreams comes a new generation of caterpillars.


Calgary Flames


The Low:


Following a December 6th loss to Pittsburgh, the Flames were 11-13-5, including a mediocre 7-7-2 record at home where they had lost only 9 games in regulation last season. “We know how desperate of a situation we’re in,” lamented Craig Conroy. “We have to get points and we have to get them whenever we can.” Things looked bleak for Calgary as they began a six-game Eastern road trip.


The Streak:


The Flames ran the table on their road trip, including a 9-goal outburst in Tampa Bay. Kristian Huselius had multiple 5 point games and Jarome Iginla is on pace for the best statistical season of his career. Calgary is on a 6-0-2 run and is now 17-13-7, good enough for 7th place in the West, 3 points behind Colorado and Vancouver for the division lead. Most surprisingly, Calgary has scored the fourth most goals in the Conference. One has to wonder if the term “Flamesing it in” (used to describe either the game winning goal in a 2-1 victory or the lone goal in a 2-1 defeat where the puck goes in off a body part or skate of a Flames player) is becoming obsolete.


Analysis:


Before the season I thought it would be unlikely if the Flames were available at odds of over +3000. After their horrible start the odds climbed to over +4000. Now, Calgary has not lost in regulation in 8 games and occupies a playoff spot. Take them at +4000 at Centrebet. Once those odds are gone, they will not climb to above +3000.


Buffalo Sabres


The Low:


Following a 3-2 loss to Ottawa, the Buffalo Sabres were 6-10-1. Ryan Miller was slumping, and the losses of Daniel Briere and Chris Drury were evident as Buffalo was slumping offensively. Lindy Ruff called out Maxim Afinegenov for his inconsistent play, and the Sabres were tied with the Capitals for the worst record in the Conference.


The Streak(s):


After the loss to Ottawa, Buffalo won 5 games in a row (3 over Montreal). Now, Buffalo is on a 6 game winning streak and are 19-14-1, good enough for 6th place in a tight Eastern Conference. The Sabres were successful last year largely because of depth at forward, and this year they have 9 forwards with 15 or more points.


Analysis:


The Sabres are back! Because of their loss to Ottawa in the Conference finals last year it is easy to forget they are one year removed from winning the President’s Trophy. +4000 at Centrebet is an excellent price to get on a team that is 13-4-0 in their last 17 games.


Honorable mention:


Phoenix Coyotes – Nov. 15 (after 6-0 loss to San Jose) 7-10-0. Now 17-16-1 – 4-0-1 in last 5. +25000 at Centrebet.


For illegal curve, I’m Ari Baum-Cohen

About the writer: Ari-Baum Cohen's first sports betting victory came at age 8 when he won his father's office pool. He screamed like a 14 year-old girl at a Justin Timberlake concert when Tampa Bay (had at +3500 to win Cup) and Calgary (had at +15000 to win Cup) made the Stanley Cup finals.


FROZEN ASSETS December 14, 2007
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FROZEN ASSETS September 27, 2007
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EURO CURVE

Euro Curve chronicles the latest international hockey news.

As everyone continues to enjoy their holiday season, Illegal Curve provides hockey fans with excellent insight and analysis on the two major international hockey tournaments which take place every December; the 2008 U-20 World Junior Hockey Championships from Pardubice, Czech Republic and the 2008 Spengler Cup Hockey tournament, held in Davos, Switzerland.

- Canada is three-time defending champion at the 2008 World Junior Championships, and won their 19th consecutive game on Wednesday afternoon, defeating the host Czech Republic 3-0, on the strength of two John Tavares goals. The 17-year-old Oshawa General, who isn't draft eligible until 2009, leads a new youth movement for the Crazy Canucks, which also features 2008 draft hopefuls Steven Stamkos and Drew Doughty, two other 17-year-olds who played impressively in their first WJC games respectively.

Canada didn't bring their A-game for the opening contest but played well enough to win. Los Angeles Kings goaltending prospect Jonathan Bernier was the star of the game, stopping 44 shots and earning the goose egg. Canada will play Slovakia tomorrow morning, a team they beat in exhibition play last week.

Other Scores:

Sweden 4 Slovakia 3
USA 5 Kazakhstan 1
Russia 7 Finland 4

Tomorrow's games:

Canada vs. Slovakia, 10 a.m. ET, Pardubice Arena
Kazakhstan vs. Russia, 10 a.m. ET, Tipsport Arena
Czech Republic vs. Denmark, 2 p.m. ET, Pardubice Arena
Finland vs. Switzerland, 2 p.m. ET, Tipsport Arena

- The opening match at the Spengler Cup Tournament was entertaining to say the least, as Canada needed the overtime shootout to beat HC Pardubice 4-3. Dale MacTavish and Captain Serge Aubin had the shootout goals for Team Canada while Curtis Joseph provided superb goaltending, stopping everything in the extra fame. Manitobans Kirby Law and J.P Vigier put Canada ahead 3-2 late in the second period but the Czech Republic squared the contest in the third period on a 5-on-3 man advantage.

In the only other game of the day, Adler Mannheim upset host club HC Davos by a score of 3-2.

Tomorrow's games:

HC Moller Pardubice vs. Salavat Yulaev Ufa, 9:00 a.m. ET.
HC Davos vs. Team Canada, 2:15 p.m. ET.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

Happy Holidays!

On behalf of the Illegal Curve team, I would like to wish all our readers a very Happy Holiday season and a Happy New Year. Most of our contributors are on vacation enjoying the holiday season; thus, the site will return to its usual posting schedule on January 3rd, 2008.

All the best,

Richard Pollock

NHL Morning Papers (Friday Edition)

Here are the national morning papers:

• As Allan Maki of the Globe & Mail tells us, the IIHF has opened its Hall of Fame doors to women's hockey.

Here are the Western Conference morning papers:

• The Flames will attempt to carry their road success onto home-ice tonight when they host the Dallas Stars. Fans who focus on the Flames' six-game winning streak should not overlook the resurgent special teams as one of the main reasons for such an amazing road trip. Meanwhile, Flames forward Wayne Primeau is happy to be back in action after being sidelined for two months with an ankle sprain.
• The Blackhawks called up youngster Cam Barker from the AHL on Thursday and are hoping this time he will stick with the big club for the long haul.
• It appears that the Avalanche organization is legitimately concerned about the injury statuses of both Joe Sakic and Ryan Smyth.
• Ken Hitchcock has promoted speedy winger Jason Chimera to the Blue Jackets' number one line for tonight's game versus the Kings. In some positive news for Columbus, injured forward Mike Peca practiced with his teammates yesterday and is close to a return to the lineup. Here are the Jackets' probable lines for tonight's game.
• The Dallas Stars tried to exact revenge for last year's first round playoff loss to the Canucks last night, but Roberto Luongo was just too good as they lost to Vancouver 3-2. Prior to yesterday's game, the Stars goalies were poking fun at Roberto Luongo's flaps that he chooses not to tie down on his goalie pads.
• The Red Wings were unhappy with a non-call of what they perceived to be interference on the Blues' second goal of the Wings' 3-2 loss in St. Louis.
• Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal has an interesting piece on Brent Sutter and his move and adjustment to coaching in the NHL. Oilers super-scout Lorne Davis passed away on Thursday and Matheson has a touching obituary on one of the great members of the Oilers organization.
• The Kings will be without their top goal-scorer for the next two games as Dustin Brown injured his shoulder in Detroit on Wednesday night.
• Marian Gaborik was simply superb last night as the Slovakian speedster netted a career high 5 goals and added 1 assist in his team's 6-3 victory over the New York Rangers.
• Not surprisingly, Predators GM David Poile, almost always conservative when it comes to trading, is not looking to make a move with his team's current struggles.
• Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic tells readers that Derek Morris has had a quietly successful season.
• Ron Wilson was very unhappy with the Sharks after they blew a late one-goal lead to the Coyotes and eventually lost to Phoenix 3-2 in a shootout.
• The Blues were very excited after they pulled off a comeback versus the NHL's best Detroit Red Wings last night and were victorious 3-2.
• As Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province tells us, the NHL has no problem with Roberto Luongo's pads.

Here are the Eastern Conference morning papers:

• The Capitals were outclassed by the Habs last night to a final score of 5-2 and to make matters worse they lost defenseman Brian Pothier to a broken thumb.
• The Leafs lost another heart-breaker last night as Vincent Lecavalier scored with under a minute remaining to give Tampa Bay a 2-1 victory. Former Lightning defenseman Pavel Kubina still can't get over how his stick snapped at the most inopportune time in the game.
• Jason Ward definitely didn't have a problem with his promotion to Tampa's number one line alongside superstar Vinny Lecavalier.
• The Penguins made it harder than they had to, after blowing a 4-0 lead to the Bruins but maintained their composure and won the game in a shootout. Meanwhile, reports of the Penguins opening up next season in Sweden versus the Senators have yet to be confirmed.
• Tim Panaccio of the Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that the Flyers and head coach John Stevens have agreed to a contract extension.
• Martin Gerber tried his best to extend the Senators' winning streak last night but came up on the losing end of a 3-2 score in Atlanta. The Sens were lucky to even be in the game after giving up a shocking 45 shots to Atlanta.
• If the Islanders want to turn their fortunes around, they need to start turning their high shot totals into high goal totals writes Roderik Boone of Newsday.
• John Dellapina of the New York Daily News thinks the Rangers may have started their holidays prior to last night's loss to the Wild in St. Paul.
• Arron Asham is trying to put his on-ice yelling incident with Brent Sutter behind him as he tries to regain his early season form.
• Habs coach Guy Carbonneau felt his team was outplayed last night but, having said that, he will take a 5-2 road victory and look ahead to the rest of his team's road trip.
• With last night's 5-4 victory over the Hurricanes, the Panthers have moved to only three points out of first place in the Southeast Division.
• The Hurricanes can't shake the injury bug as they lost winger Justin Williams to a left knee injury during last night's loss at Florida.
• The Sabres welcome back Daniel Briere and Martin Biron back into the HSBC Arena tonight and, in good news, Derek Roy will be ready to face his ex-teammates.
• Coach Don Waddell thought the Thrashers played their hardest-fought game to date as they outshot and defeat the conference leading Senators 3-2 on home-ice.
• The Bruins lost in a shootout last night, but they can take solace in the fact that they didn't quit when they were trailing 4-0 and came roaring back to make it 4-4.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

FROZEN ASSETS

Frozen Assets will return next week THURSDAY DECEMBER 27th.

EURO CURVE

Euro Curve chronicles the latest international hockey news.

You won't find pictures of Jessica Simpson here, but you will find Team Canada's roster for the upcoming 2008 Spengler Cup hockey tournament (December 26-31) to be played in Davos, Switzerland. The Spengler Cup is an annual hockey tournament played in Davos, Switzerland which features Canucks playing in Europe (along with others imported from the AHL, ECHL, etc), a club team from Switzerland [HC Davos], Russia [Salavat Yulaev Ufa],Germany [Adler Mannheim], Czech Republic [HC Moeller Pardubice].


Canadian Roster

Coaches: Sean Simpson (head), Dougy Gilmour (assistant), Jim Koleff (assistant)

Goaltenders

Wade Flaherty (Terrace, BC)
Curtis Joseph (Keswick, Ontario)


Defensemen

Andre Benoit (St.Albert, Ontario)
Mark Giordano (Toronto,Ontario)
Shawn Heins (Eganville, Ontario)
Curtis Murphy (Kerrobert, Saskatchewan)
Mike Siklenka (Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan)
Danny Syvret (Milgrove, Ontario)
Yannick Tremblay (Pointe-aux-Trembles, Quebec)

Forwards

Ramzi Abid (Montreal, Quebec)
Serge Aubin (Val-d'Or, Quebec)
Hnat Domenichelli (Edmonton, Alberta)
Simon Gamache (Thetford Mines, Quebec)
Travis Green (Castlegar, British Columbia)
Kirby Law (McCreary, Manitoba)
Dale McTavish (Eganville, Ontario)
Marty Murray (Deloraine,Manitoba)
Domenic Pittis (Calgary, Alberta)
Yves Sarault (Valleyfield, Quebec)
Jeff Toms (Swift Current, Saskatchewan)
J.P Vigier (Notre Dame de Lourde, Manitoba)


Expert Analysis: This team is experienced in goal with Joseph and Flaherty, solid on the bluelines with the likes of Tremblay, Heins, Giordano and Syvret and packed with Euro and Spengler experience at the forward positions with Domenichelli, Pittis, Aubin and Murray.
Look for Canada to be in heavy contention for the Cup this year.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

NHL Morning Papers (Thursday Edition)

Here are the national morning papers:

• According to Roy MacGregor of the Globe & Mail, Chris Simon thinks his suspension was unfair.
• The National Post has an interesting article on the Chris Simon incident from the perspective of other players in the NHL.
• USA Today provides readers with an insightful article on prospective prospects for the 2008 entry draft.

Here are the Eastern Conference morning papers:

• Thrashers defenseman Steve McCarthy is trying to work his way out of being a minus +/- player writes Craig Custance.
• It wasn't an intense workout, but Patrice Bergeron appears to be making positive steps towards a comeback some time this season writes Fluto Shinwaza of the Boston Globe.
• The Sabres are only going to go as far as Ryan Miller can take them, and the top goaltender was terrific last night leading the team to a 2-1 victory over the Islanders.
• With John Grahame having won two straight contests, no one in Carolina knows who will start between the pipes tonight when the Canes face off against the Panthers.
• The Panthers are hoping to carry the success of their road trip onto home ice tonight when they host Carolina. Jozef Stumpel was relieved to finally put his slump behind him in Montreal on Tuesday writes George Richards of the Miami Herald.
• Habs coach Guy Carbonneau doesn't understand why his team doesn't stick to his fairly simple system and battle hard all the time.
• The Devils aren't accustomed to travelling out of the Eastern time zone and that was easily reflected in their game on Tuesday night against the Canucks.
• Rangers defenseman Marek Malik is obviously unhappy about being a healthy scratch but understands that it is part of the game and intends to work his way out of it. For all the names on Broadway, it is a little known pair of defenseman who are playing the most and the hardest minutes on the Rangers blueline writes John Dellapina of the New York Daily News.
• The Islanders outshot the Sabres 43-17 but came out on the losing end of a 2-1 score thanks in large part to the play of Sabres goalie Ryan Miller.
• Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun has a fun article about brushes with greatness after he saw Denzel Washington in Boston's Logan Airport. Meanwhile, Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen has a very interesting article about home-ice advantage, or lack thereof, of teams who have very few fans actually showing up to the games.
• Sam Donnellon gives readers an inside look at the Flyers' power structure and the rise of Peter Luukko in owner Ed Snider's crew.
• The Penguins' offensive statistics are top heavy and if they want to make a move up the standings they are going to need scoring contributions from the entire roster writes Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. There are no indications as to when Ryan Malone will return to the Pens lineup with an infected cut on his leg.
• The Lightning have called up prospect Karri Ramo to try and solve their long-standing goaltending woes.
• After an embarrassing loss on Tuesday, the Leafs have the opportunity to quiet their critics tonight as they take on Tamba Bay tonight. As Mike Zeisberger points out in this morning's Toronto Sun, it wasn't the choice of the players on the ice at the end of Tuesday's game but how those players executed that cost the team the game.
• Capitals rookie Nicklas Backstrom is finally starting to get settled into the NHL game and it is paying dividends for the Capitals organization.

Here are the Western Conference morning papers:

• Having lost four straight games, the Blues are hoping to crack out of their slump against the powerhouse Red Wings tonight.
• The Canucks' top line realizes they will have to pump up their contributions with the injury to Brendan Morrison killing the teams secondary scoring.
• The Ducks continued their strong defensive play last night as they beat the Avalanche 2-1 in overtime thanks to Schneider's glove-side goal 2:29 into the extra frame. Since Neidermayer's return on Sunday, the Ducks have only allowed 2 goals in 3 games.
• After winning 6 in a row on the road, the Flames are looking to improve upon their 7-7-4 home record when they host the Stars tomorrow night. Despite their win streak, the Flames are still in fourth in the crowded Northeast Division. As well, Mike Keenan has rediscovered his passion for coaching with Calgary being his 8th coaching job in the NHL
• The Blackhawks did not let up after jumping ahead 3-0 in the first period as they beat the Predators 5-2. This was only their 2nd win in 8 games in December.
• Without the services of Ryan Smith and Jordan Leopold and despite only registering 12 shots on goal, the Avs still managed to walk away with a point from last night's overtime loss to the Ducks. The Ducks completely dominated in all aspects of the game but Peter Budaj was sensational stopping 36 of 38 shots.
• Blue Jacket's forward, Dave Vyborny, is anxious to return to the lineup on Friday after missing the last 8 games with a groin injury.
• Mike Ribiero, who is on pace for a career high 42 goals and 87 points, is looking to help the Stars beat the Canucks tonight in Vancouver.
• The Red Wings had goals from six different players last night against the Kings with Kronwall chipping in a career-high 4 assists as the NHL's best team beat the NHL's worst 6-2.
• Since arriving in Minnesota 2 year's ago, Brian Rolston has been a catalyst for the team's success. As Rolston is beginning to heat up expect the Wild to follow suit writes Minnesota Tribune's Kent Youngblood.
• The Pred's inability to score has found them losers of 5 in a row and sitting 14th place in the Western conference. After last night's lack lustre 5-2 loss to the Blackhawks, Pred's captain, Jason Arnott, led a players-only meeting to try to find a way to turn the season around.
• The Coyotes recent success can be attributed to the "VHS Line", featuring Vrbata, Hanzel and Sjostrom, writes Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic.
• The Sharks play host to the suddenly resurgent Coyotes tonight. The Sharks have won all 4 meetings with the Coyotes this season.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock. (Illegal Curve's Adam Gutkin contributed the Western Conference papers this morning.)

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. In other suspension news, Hurricanes forward Craig Adams has received a 2-game break for hitting Alex Steen on the head with his stick.
2. No links available yet, but Minnesota radio stations are reporting that Kyle Okposo will leave the Gophers and join the Islanders following the World Junior tournament. Link now available.
3. Todd Bertuzzi felt like he was "expected" to fight the night he injured Steve Moore.
4. A look around the SJHL, with a focus on the Weyburn Red Wings.
5. Spector lays out the recent trade rumours.
6. A Q and A with IIHF President Rene Fasel.
7. Mike Brophy thinks (wishes?) that the NHL will never abandon the Instigator Rule.
8. Blogger David Staples offers up some good reading. Its Oiler heaving, but interesting all the same.
9. Canada's women's team has invited 21 chicks to its tryout camp.
10. Sean Avery paints his nails black and may be involved with Mary-Kate Olson.
11. A tourney that could only happen in Toronto, with players divided up by race in the name of multi-culturalism.
12. SI writer Alan Muir is taking the new Euro Super-league seriously.
13. Peter Schaefer is happy to be in Boston, and Milan Lucic has earned the nickname Gino.
14. The NHL continues its slide back to a clutch and grab league.
15. A collection of some funny (and some really stupid) hockey stories. (H/T Kukla)
16. Wednesday's Water Cooler Notes.
17. Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau uses movies to motivate his players.
18. Winkler Flyers forward Jared MacIntosh is now a published author.
19. An interesting look at the Asian Ice Hockey League.
20. A story on Trevor Smith of the Utah Grizzlies.
21. Fanhouse reacts to the Mike Brophy article on the Instigator Rule.
22. The NHL's Hot List.
23. A look at 10 Players exceeding expectations this season.
24. A profile on Lyon Messier of the Lincoln Stars.
25. Bruins rookie Vladamir Sobotka is getting noticed for his feistiness.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

NHL Morning Papers (Wednesday Edition)

Here are the national morning papers:

• Eric Duhatschek of the Globe & Mail thinks that the Chris Simon 30 game suspension handed down by the NHL fits the crime.
• USA Today provides a list of all Chris Simon's past suspensions in chronological order.

Here are the Eastern Conference morning papers:

• The Atlanta Thrashers recorded a much-needed victory at home last night versus Tampa Bay. Meanwhile coach Don Waddell does not seem too concerned with the high amounts of ice-time rookie Tobias Enstrom has been logging so far this season.
• The Bruins came up a bit short last night versus the conference leading Senators and were defeated 3-2 on home-ice. In other Bruins news, Andrew Alberts continues to be kept out of the lineup with recurring headaches.
• The Sabres are set to get rock-solid defenseman Dmitri Kalinin back into their lineup tonight when they take on the Islanders.
• The Hurricanes shouldn't have been able to come back from a 2-1 deficit in the final minute of play, but the Leafs handed them the opportunity and they ran with it all the way to a 3-2 overtime victory.
• The Panthers completed their first winning road trip in four years last night with a 3-2 victory over the Canadiens. "We were the better team tonight and deserved to win. It's pretty simple,'' said goaltender Tomas Vokoun after the contest.
• Red Fisher of the Montreal Gazette says the Habs biggest issue was that they couldn't keep up with the Panthers speed.
• Roberto Luongo got the better of Martin Broduer and the Devils as the Canucks defeated New Jersey 5-0. According to Canucks coach Alain Vigneault the Devils are playing basically the same style they have for the last decade.
• The Rangers got back to playing tight defensive hockey last night and it worked as they dominated the Penguins with a 4-0 victory at MSG. "He's one of the best players in the league. And when we can shut him down like that, it goes a long way as far as our line's concerned," said Rangers winger Ryan Hollweg about shutting down Sidney Crosby.
• The Islanders are trying to turn their focus to their play on the ice, not on Chris Simon writes Katie Strang of Newsday.
• The Senators got a goal from Luke Richardson last night and to make thing special, his dad was on-hand in Boston to watch his son's team defeat the Bruins 3-2.
• The Flyers continued their inconsistent ways last night, blowing a 2-0 home lead to the Coyotes and losing the game 3-2.
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette says after last night's performance, the Penguins were lucky to only lose 4-0 to the Rangers. Ryan Malone missed last night's game with the flu.
• The Lightning had another tough loss last night but coach John Tortorella wants them to remember that they have to stick-together moving forward.
• Alexei Ponikarovsky was the goat last night as the Leafs thought they had the game in the bag but ended up somehow losing in overtime.
• Capitals defenseman Jeff Schultz has developed a new half slapshot and it has accounted for his last four goals scored writes Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post.

Here are the Western Conference morning papers:

• The Ducks recorded their first shutout of the season last night by defeating the division-rival Sharks 2-0 in a game with a playoff type intensity.
• You can't be much hotter than the Flames right now as they defeated Columbus last night to cap off a 6-0 road trip. "That was a great road trip. The guys got to bond out here on the road and no better way to do it than winning. It came from a lot of hard work," said defenseman Cory Sarich after last night's 3-1 victory at Columbus.
• If the Blackhawks want to turn it around it will have to start with the team's slumping powerplay writes Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune.
• According to Adrian Dater of the Denver Post, Jordan Leopold will be out of the Avs lineup tonight because of a lacerated thigh.
• It is a fine line between winning and losing in the NHL and the Blue Jackets are currently on the wrong side of that line according to coach Ken Hitchock. One of the reasons for the Jackets poor play has been their futility on the powerplay writes Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch.
• The Oilers ran into a formidable shootout foe last night as the Stars visited Rexall Place and defeated Edmonton 2-1 in a shootout.
• Kris Draper will be back in the Wings lineup tonight after missing the past nine games with a sprained knee.
• The Oilers lost in a shootout last night but they weren't unhappy with the way they played writes Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal.
• The NHL's best team in Detroit faces-off against the L.A. Kings who are the NHL's worst team tonight in Motown.
• The Wild came back from a two goal third period deficit to defeat the Predators and record two points in Jacques Lemaire's 1000th career NHL game behind the bench.
• The Predators played a great first two periods but it was all for naught as the allowed three goals in the third and were defeated by the Wild 3-2 at the Xcel Center.
• The Coyotes continue to defy the odds and are now 4-1 on their current extended road trip after defeating the Flyers 3-2 last night at the Wachovia Center.
• Coach Ron Wilson was very unhappy with the way his team performed last night in their 2-0 loss to the rival Ducks.
• The Blues are not going to rush their youngsters' development writes Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Dispatch.
• Roberto Luongo didn't not look the least bit rusty last night after coming back from injury and helping the Canucks defeat the Devils 5-0.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Life in Pro Hockey with Rob Schremp (Third Entry)

Note: Periodically throughout the season, Oilers' prospect and current Springfield Falcons' winger Rob Schremp will provide Illegal Curve readers with a unique insight into the world of professional hockey.

For Rob's third entry, he agreed to another quick Q & A about his season thus far.

Here is the interview:

Illegal Curve: Hey Rob. The first thing we wanted to ask you is how have you enjoyed the move to Left Wing?

Rob: I have adjusted to playing the wing pretty well. It was hard at first because you always want to creep down in your own zone and help your teammates out but the key is to keep your own coverage because if you don't everything gets all messed up.

Illegal Curve: You are currently in the Top 10 in AHL scoring; as a result, have you set winning the AHL scoring championship as one of your end of season goals?

Rob: It is something that I would like to achieve and it is a goal that is well within my reach. I just need to stay consistent every night if I am going to stay up there with players like Marty St. Pierre and Teddy Purcell.

Illegal Curve: It is said that every young player needs to work on their defensive game and we at Illegal Curve were wondering what adjustments have you made to your defensive game over the course of the season?

Rob: Nothing too big really. I just try to keep my focus on communicating and making sure I take care of my responsibilities before I try to help out in other areas.

Illegal Curve: With a call up only a phone call away, do you consistently keep an eye on the Oilers during the course of the season?

Rob: My roomate Danny Syvret and I watch a lot of games on the Center Ice package; which is pretty good seeing as how they rarely show NHL games on regular cable in the U.S. I do keep an eye on the Oilers just to see who is hurt or if there is a possibility of a call up. Also, I like to watch my buddies like Gilby (Tom Gilbert) and Nilsson (Robert Nilsson).

Illegal Curve: With the aforementioned possibility of a call up, do you have any kind of timeline for when you expect to be called up to the NHL?

Rob: No because you can never really know when, or if, you are going to get called up. If I were to set a timeline for myself, I think it would be more of a distraction than anything. I'd probably be thinking about it all the time; instead, I just focus on taking care of what I need to do here in Springfield.

Illegal Curve: Finally, for something a little fun. If you could pick two linemates from your hockey career, past or present, who would they be and why?

Rob: That is a tough question. I'd have to say Robert Nilsson just because of the chemistry we had together last season in Wilkes-Barre. I would have to pick two other ones and they would be Drew Larman and Dan Fritsche who were both my linemates in London (OHL) the season we won the Memorial Cup.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.
(www.illegalcurve@gmail.com)

Rob's Second Entry.
Rob's First Entry.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Steven Stamkos has topped the ISS mid-season rankings.
2. The family of Keith Magnuson has asked a judge to spare Rob Ramage a prison sentence.
3. Todd Bertuzzi's testimony is about to become public, likely this afternoon.
4. Ken Holland and Larry Pleau have been named honorary captains for the AHL All-Star Game.
5. Shawn "Scorcoff" Horcoff's new approach to the game is paying dividends.
6. The Vancouver Giants are finding ways to win, despite losing all 5 of their top scorers from last year.
7. Alex Steen doesn't mind comparisons to his father.
8. Thomas McCollum has gone from dud to stud for the Guelph Storm.
9. INCH's weekly power rankings.
10. Pierre Lebrun writes that the transfer agreement problems are a more pressing concern for the NHL than the proposed new Euro Super League.
11. Larry Brooks has some ideas for making suspensions hurt.
12. Taking Note gives us the CHL Power Rankings.
13. An interesting look at scouting by Mike Smith, courtesy of his blog.
14. Stan Fischler tells us that Chris Osgood would like to be a bullpen catcher with the Tigers after he finishes his playing career.
15. Kukla's Korner looks at the NHL's top play by play men.
16. Luca Cunti's career in college hockey looks to be over. Watch for him to join the USHL's Chicago Steel.
17. Ken Campbell of the Hockey News looks at clutch players.
18. Fanhouse thinks that the ECHL is a good factory for goons and grinders.
19. Craig MacTavish has the luxury of having two hot goalies.
20. The Flames Eric Nystrom has grabbed hold of a roster spot and doesn't want to let it go.
21. The Maple Leafs have recalled Jiri Tlusty.
22. Morris Dalla Costa looks at Canada's Under-17 team.
23. Bob Probert got a little surprise when he showed up to film a cameo in an upcoming movie.
24. John Paddock hearts Zdeno Chara.
25. The Hockey News profiles the hot prospects.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

EURO CURVE

Euro Curve chronicles the latest international hockey news.

Writers Note: Euro Curve has been appearing sporadically as of late on www.illegalcurve.com, as I have been enjoying my vacation, which has consisted of me youtubing 1990's WWF home videos. Don't fret Euro Curve readers ( Kyle and a passionate fan from Iceland), a busy December schedule will keep my keyboard busy. With the upcoming 2008 World Junior Hockey Championships, the 2008 Spengler Cup, and rumblings of a Russian Super Super? League, please stay tuned to the hottest column in the blogosphere.

- Pierre Lebrun of the Globe and Mail writes about the IIHF/NHL transfer agreement, and the potential new league in Russia.

- Russia won the Channel One Cup on Sunday, part of the European Hockey tour, defeating the Czech Republic 5-1. Russia also won the Karjala Cup, the first tournament of the Euro hockey season. Russian won all three of their games, and only surrendered two goals, while scoring 11. Fedor Fedorov, Sergei's younger brother, scored twice in the final game.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.
(ezra.ginsburg@gmail.com)

NHL Morning Papers (Tuesday Edition)

Here are the national morning papers:

• As Dave Shoalts of the Globe & Mail tells us, the Hurricanes aren't looking as good as they did early on in the season.
• Jeremy Sandler of the National Post provides readers with some interesting perspectives when it comes to the prospective European Super League.
• USA Today has an interesting Q & A with Sabres President Larry Quinn.
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun is reporting that discovery testimony from Todd Bertuzzi, and those associated with his on-ice incident, will be released this afternoon.

Here are the Eastern Conference morning papers:

• The Capitals lost 4-3 in a shootout to the powerhouse Red Wings last night, but there were many positives to take from the contest writes Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post.
• Don't expect the Leafs to trade for a replacement to fill the Bryan McCabe void writes Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun. In positive news, McCabe's surgery was a success and he is still expected to be out the 6-8 weeks that was first reported on Saturday night.
• Shane O'Brien of the Lightning is enjoying his adjustment to the system that John Tortorella has in place in Northern Florida. Carter Gaddis has an interesting article in the Tampa Tribune this morning about Phil Thibodeau the Bolts' director of team services.
• Michel Therrien likes to juggle his lines at the best of times, but with the Penguins incurring so many injuries, Therrien is being forced to switch his lines up on an almost daily basis. Apparently the Pens and Flyers are considering an outdoor game for next season.
• Flyers coach John Stevens wants his team to cut down on their penalty minutes writes Ed Moran of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
• Even though he has a hurt foot, with all the injuries the Senators are currently dealing with, Andrej Meszaros vows to play tonight. Senators coach John Paddock loves what Zdeno Chara brings to the table in Boston.
• Katie Strang of Newsday has the details behind Chris Simon's leave of absence.
• With the Rangers struggling, Tom Renney has shuffled his lines once again, and it appears Scott Gomez will find himself alongside Jaromir Jagr.
• Rod Pelley is really looking forward to playing in front of family and friends on the Devils' upcoming Western Canada road trip.
• The Habs are starting to turn the corner at even strength writes Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette.
• The Panthers want to make sure they get off to a good start tonight writes Steve Gorten of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
• Surprisingly, the Canes are expecting to have Cory Stillman in their lineup tonight when they face-off against the Maple Leafs at home.
• The Sabres are finally getting above-average production from their number one line writes Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News.
• Even though Bruins coach Claude Julien hasn't announced a starter for tonight's game, it looks like Tim Thomas is ready to go and will most likely to get the start tonight.
• The Thrashers have split up Marian Hossa and Ilya Kovalchuk and put them on different lines. Craig Custance of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution wonders if more changes are in order in his blog.

Here are the Western Conference morning papers:

• As Dan Wood of the Orange County Register tells us, the Ducks believe that other teams get more favorable penalty calls than they do.
• Apparently Jarome Iginla had as much to do with the Flames' new line combinations as did coach Mike Keenan. Jean Lefebvre suggests that Eric Nystrom has left the AHL behind for good.
• Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune explains the late career move by Hawks' defenseman Magnus Johansson.
• The Avalanche rode a strong first period to a 4-2 victory at Los Angeles last night.
• Blue Jackets forward Jason Chimera thinks there is more obstruction than there was right after the lockout ended. Micheal Peca is expected to miss tonight's game with a strained pectoral muscle. Here are the Jackets' projected lines for tonight's contest versus Calgary.
• The Stars have demonstrated a different kind of toughness since Brett Hull was brought on as general manager.
• The Red Wings got the victory last night, and afterwards coach Mike Babcock made a point of telling reporters that he was very impressed with the play of the Capitals.
• The energy level is high in Edmonton with the team only one point out of a playoff spot.
• After the Kings lost to the Avalanche last night, coach Marc Crawford said, "We are struggling right now. There's no doubt about that."
• Tonight will mark Jacques Lemaire's 1000th career game coaching and he has had quite a blast along the way.
• The Predators are fed up with their lack of goal scoring and have switched up their lines for tonight's contest versus the Wild.
• Jim Gintonio has a piece on Coyotes assistant coach Ulf Samuelsson and his love for the game.
• One year ago, all three members of the Blues' top line were playing in different places writes Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
• When Roberto Luongo returns to the lineup tonight to face the Devils, much talk will be about which one of the two goaltenders will be Canada's starting netminder in Vancouver in 2010 at the Olympics.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.