News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. LZ Granderson tells us the Willie O'Ree is still trying to make a difference in hockey.
2. You want more Willie O'Ree? You got 'im.
3. Darren Dreger writes that the NHL and NHLPA are discussing the implementation of a declaration date for players to decide their playing fate.
4. Bob McKenzie says that the ideal situation would see Calgary make some trades to free up money for their impending free agents.
5. Pierre Lebrun writes that Ken Hitchcock didn't even get to see Rick Nash's spectacular goal, despite being on the bench.
6. The ECHL is inducting four into their Hall of Fame.
7. The NHL Notebook from the Globe and Mail reminds us its almost deadline time.
8. Nike is about to sell their Bauer division.
9. The Puck Stops Here examines who gains the most from long term contracts for young players.
10. Chris Chelios is saying that Rob Blake wants to be a Red Wing. Chelly must need someone to carpool with when its Senior's Night at Cracker Barrel.
11. Lets Play Hockey has a feature on Brady Hjelle of the Cedar Rapids Roughriders.
12. To help illustrate this slow news day, the papers in Philly are reporting that 76'ers forward Samuel Dalembert will attend his first ever hockey game, despite being a Canadian.
13. The Duluth News Tribune says that college players are feeling the pull to turn pro earlier than in the past. I've seen girls from Duluth before, I bet they feel the urge to pull something else rather than subject themselves to those lovelies.
14. A story on the US Pond Hockey Championships, set for this weekend.
15. Charles Wang is spreading good will through hockey, and hoping that the good will reaps benefits.
16. Fanhouse does a follow-up on the Chris Pronger furniture burning story.
17. St. Louis Blues fans werethisclose to getting free beer for attending a home game.
18. Allan Muir gives us the most bang for the buck team. Might I also suggest Regina girls if Illegal Curve fans are looking for more bang for their buck?
19. Dean McAmmond has an alter ego.
20. The latest cartoon from The Instigator.
21. CBC has a feature where you can send in questions to Commissioner Gary Bettman.
22. Ryan Dixon looks at the next wave of Swedish defensemen.
23. Ross McKeon examines Brett Hull in his new role as co-GM in Dallas.
24. Check out these hockey pictures from The Best Seat in the House blog.
25. Lowetide updates us on the Oilers 2004 draft choices.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-Eric Lindros is expected to officially announce his retirement on Thursday.
-Wade Redden has said he will take a home-town discount to stay with the Ottawa Senators.
-An MRI has revealed that Dan Boyle will need more surgery on his injured wrist.
-Senators owner Eugene Melnyk feels that Canada can support more NHL teams.
-Todd Bertuzzi's $350,000 settlement offer to Steve Moore is rejected.
-Bob McKenzie does not believe John Tortorella's job is in jeopardy.
-Chris Bourque may make his NHL debut tonight.
-John Buccigross talks Jeremey Roenick.
-Fluto Shinzawa discusses the Bruins goal scoring struggles.
-The Ottawa Senators could make history tonight by recording the most points ever after 14 games.
-The Buffalo Sabres are unsure as to why they are struggling early on this year.
-The Globe and Mail notes that the CBA appears to have achieved parity in the NHL.
-Damien Cristodero says don't expect the Lightning to make a deal for a goalie.
-Sioux backup goalie has Anthony Grieco has returned to the OHL.
-Alexei Doistonov has left the Ohio Junior Blue Jackets to play for the Kitchener Rangers.
-Taking Note details an amazing story of underage players drinking and the coverup that followed.
-Jennifer Botterill and Hayley Wickenheiser lead the way for Canada in Sweden.
-An interesting story about a documentary about the life of junior aged hockey players in Quebec.
-Power Rankings from the USHL.
-James Mirtle looks at a few NHL teams that are already in trouble.
-Sports Illustrated's Power Rankings. The Islanders crack the Top 10.
-Barry Smith blogs from the Russian Super League.
-Interesting take on the Oilers and their future from David Staples.
-Orlando, FL. man on the hockey trip of a lifetime.
-The Bleacher Report with the top ten hockey teams of the future.
-Six Senators make the All-Star Ballot.
-Darcy Tucker makes an appearance on Little Mosque on the Prairies. The Leafs dominance of the Commie Broadcasting Corp. is complete.
-Michael Farber reports that the Blues are back.
-Wes Walz has gone AWOL in Minnesota.
-Luc Bourdon has been recalled by the Vancouver Canucks.
-Stan Fischler looks at what ails the Devils.
-The Kitchener Rangers extend their winning streak to 9 games.
-The Score reports that Pittsburgh may be shopping for a goaltender.
-Hockey News' Hot List.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

News You Can Use Late In the Day

-Darcy Tucker is out of the Leafs' lineup indefinitely with ligament damage in his right knee.

-Raffi Torres is fined for his hit on David Moss, avoids suspension.

-Wayne Primeau is out with a high ankle sprain.

-Ryan Smyth expects to "break down" during his return to Edmonton.

-Pierre Lebrun comments on a busy week for the Oilers. Also note that the article says Patrik Stefan will have to retire after re-injuring his hip.

-North Dakota remains on top of the college hockey polls. Note that while Lamoureux has been perfect so far this year, he also went 0-2 in one period versus Manitoba.

-The weekly Who's Hot and Who's Not in the CHL article from Sportsnet.

-The PEI Rockey have fired Yanick Jean.

-Paul Maurice suggests that he is insulted that other teams play their backups against the Leafs.

-The Panthers are seeking a talented enforcer. Maybe perennial PIM leader RP should apply?

-Steve Simmons says that if the 2005 NHL draft was a do-0ver, the first 4 would be Crosby, Stastny, Kopitar and Vlasic.

-Behind the Net has its first stat heavy post of the year.

-NHL Scouts are high on a number of Windsor Spitfires.

-Kyle Woodlief with an early look at the 2008 NHL Draft.

-The Prince Albert Raiders strip 3 players of letters.

-The Blackhawks may start televising their home games.

-A look at Rangers prospect Tom Pyatt.

-Members of the Devils weigh in on the new Prudential Center.

-Keith Tkachuk re-invents himself as a centre.

-Still no word from the NHL on Rick Tocchet's future.

-Fanhouse takes a look at Scott Gomez's troubles in NYC.

-Fanhouse feels Minnesota.

-Michael Farber of SI notes 5 people who help their teams without much recognition.

-Eric Burnside wonders who will be the next coach fired in the NHL.

-Igor Grigorenko avoids a trip to Siberia by joining the Red Wings.

-5 Games worth watching this week.

-Greg Dennis writes that a coach change is a risk/reward proposition.

-Kari Lehtonen is out 4 to 6 weeks with a groin strain.

-Tension mounts for the struggling Leafs.

-Andrew Ladd and Scott Walker were placed on injured reserve.

-Mike Brophy reveals that the Devils were seeing playing offense.

-The Score notes that Vinny Prospal is a streaky player. Stop the presses.

Prospect Pulse: MIA Today

I am under the weather today, so Prospect Pulse will return tomorrow.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-The schedule, lack of physical play and the economy all cited as reasons for poor attendance at the Joe Louis Arena.

-Wild goalie Josh Harding not worried about when he will start.

-All 59 NCAA Division I college hockey teams ranked.

-Blues defender Erik Johnson is out with a broken foot.

-The Canucks have demoted Alex Edler to Manitoba.

-Eric Duhatschek writes about the importance of chemistry.

-Paul Maurice shuffles the deck chairs on the good ship Maple Leaf.

-The Oilers battle the Wild in a showdown for 1st place in the NW.

-David Shoalts notes that Kid Rock may have been gives a Stanley Cup ring.

-Alex Ponikarovsky injured at Leaf's practice.

-The NHL Store is set to open in New York. This might be a better fit in Toronto.

-Kyle Beach of the Everett Silvertips is leading the Western League with 47 PIMS.

-Real Paiment sets the record for most games coached in the QMJHL.

-A feature on Steven Stamkos.

-A preview of the CHA, entering its final year.

-Oilers blogger Lowetide with the second part of his review of Oiler drafts, covering 2004 to 2007.

-The San Jose Sharks may try and sign Sandis Ozolinsh.

-Wheat Kings d-man Daryl Boyle turns down the Baby Bruins to return to Brandon.

-The Kitchener Rangers are unbeaten this season.

-The new and improved Todd Bertuzzi is still old and injured.

-Gretzky discusses Nash.

-Fanhouse sees Paul Statsny as an "under the radar star".

-Frank Deford of SI thinks the NHL should drop the Olympics.

-Interviews with Andrew Cogliano and Sam Gagner.

-Marian Hossa is out with a groin strain.

-Ever wanted to know the life story of Glen Metropolit? The Boston Herald made it happen!

-News and Notes from around the NHL. Interesting story near the bottom which notes that no one has seen nor heard from Darren McCarty. If he misses an alimony payment, I am sure his ex-wife will find him.

-Jose Theodore is ready to go. So much for the Avs hot start.

-The Offside blog notes that the Blackhawks have a long ways to go if they want to win back fans.

-The Tennesseean writes that Paul Kariya supplies the Blues with respectability.

-Sam Gagner is working hard to solidify his hold on a roster spot.

-The Manitoba Moose are aiming for a 3rd straight 100 point season.

-The Leafs are a team in disarray.

-Stan Fischler is eagerly anticipating tonight's Rangers-Islanders game.

-ESPN's Scott Burnside ranks the NHL's coaches.

-Wes Goldstein expects growing pains as Sutter teaches the Devils to forget the trap.

-Jonathan Toews will skate tonight against the Sharks.

-ESPN's John Buccigross with his thoughts on the season. I appreciate him laughing at Oiler-hater Mick McGeough.

-Jackie Friedman writes that Richard Zednik adds zip to the Panthers top line.

-A look at defenseman Richard Petiot in the AHL Notebook.

-Dan Boyle skating again, but can't participate in all the drills.

-Chuck Kobasew finally getting his chance in Boston.

-Keith Ballard does it all in Phoenix.

-Either Aaron Downey or Matt Ellis will take Johan Franzen's spot in Detroit's lineup.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Morning Musings: A busy Sunday

As usual, there are an exceptionally large number of articles today so I am going skip my morning preamble.

On to the morning papers:

• Damien Cox of the Toronto Star pronounces Vesa Toskala the Leafs' number one netminder for the foreseeable future. The Leafs fought back from a 3-1 deficit last night and prevailed in overtime over the rival Canadiens. Meanwhile, Mats Sundin is on a collision course with a couple Leafs' records writes Lance Hornby in this morning's Toronto Sun.
• It was only a matter of time before Brent Sutter had a tirade and put his mark on the team; Mark Everson of the NY Post has the details. If not for Kevin Weekes the result may have been different writes Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger.
• When discussing the issue of head-shots, Larry Brooks of the NY Post stresses that the NHL needs to make sure if focuses on punishing the crime, not the criminal.
• The Rangers were outclassed by the Senators on Saturday night writes John Dellapina of the NY Daily News. To add insult to injury, the Rangers lost Sean Avery with an apparent separation or dislocation of his left shoulder.
• Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is impressed with the Rangers' assortment of forwards but wonders if the team's defense is good enough to sustain a long playoff run. Garrioch says the team has the same concern which is why it is attempting to acquire Ed Jovanovski.
• The Senators are now 3-0 on this young season and have been a perfect 19-for-19 on the penalty kill.
• As Marc Herrmann of Newsday explains, the Islanders don't really have any star power in their lineup and that's perfectly fine so long as the team has a chance. The Islanders have waived Freddy Meyer making the way for the team to sign defenseman Bryan Berard.
• The Flyers had a weak first period versus the Oilers; couple that with a late second period goal by Geoff Sanderson and that was enough to propel the Oil to a 5-3 victory over Philadelphia.
• All the Oilers' off-season acquisitions have contributed in the team's first two wins and Craig MacTavish says that is awfully important; Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal has the story. After explaining that he was "pretty embarrassed" by the way he performed for the Flyers last season, Geoff Sanderson was excited to be able to produce against his former teammates in Philly. With another solid game last night, Dustin Penner has impressed in his short career as an Oiler thus far.
• The Bolts defeated the Thrashers 5-2 on Saturday night and Lightning forward Brad Richards was awfully impressed by the team's overall performance. Tampa winger Vaclav Prospal has been quick to put his 2006/07 struggles behind him and that has been the key to his solid start to the 2007/08 campaign.
• Regardless of the amount of new players the Thrashers have brought into the lineup, according to Marian Hossa the team is being outworked.
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has the recap of the Pens' wild 5-4 victory over the defending champion Ducks.
• Ted Leonsis is awfully excited that his team has started the season 2-0 writes Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post.
• After losing 2-0 to the Caps, the Canes, to their credit, did not use the injuries to Cory Stillman, Mike Commodore and Bret Hedican as excuses last night. The Canes agreed to a 2 year, 2-way deal with defenseman David Tanabe before last night's contest in Washington.
• It looks like Johan Franzen may out for a while after he collided with Blackhawks' forward Tuomo Ruutu. After reading George Sipple's article in this morning's Detroit Free Press, it is clear that Robert Lang and Mike Babcock had their fair share of issues.
• It was quite a thrill for Buffalo native Patrick Kane to be able to score the shootout winner versus former Sabres' legend Dominik Hasek on Saturday night.
• The Bruins provided coach Claude Julien with much improved effort in their 3-1 victory over the Coyotes last night. Marc Savard left Boston's game versus the Coyotes last night with apparent abdominal discomfort but he hopes to be back on the ice Wednesday for the team's next game. In other Bruins' news, Aaron Ward is excited to be able to reacquaint himself with the point on the powerplay writes Fluto Shinwaza of the Boston Globe.
• The Sabres are hoping they can get Ales Kotalik back in the lineup from his sprained MCL for Thursday's game against Atlanta. Meanwhile, Kotalik's teammates improved on their performance on Saturday night but still have a long way to go, as they were defeated 3-2 by the Isles.
• The Flames' comeback effort was spoiled once again, this time with only four seconds remaining on the clock in overtime, as Calgary was defeated by the Canucks 4-3. Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun runs down the key performers from last night's contest. According to coach Mike Keenan, Dion Phaneuf was the Flames' best player last night.
• Ben Kuzma recaps the Canucks' perspective of the team's 4-3 victory over Calgary in this morning's Vancouver Province. While Roberto Luongo did go down mid-game with an apparent injury, the tough netminder did not miss any time and looked fine finishing off the game.
• There are, once again, new line combinations in Colorado for tonight's game versus the Sharks.
• Ray Stein of the Columbus Dispatch has a Q & A on the Blue Jackets and other sports happenings.
• Wild coach Jacques Lemaire was very happy with the way his team played last night versus Columbus. In other Wild news, Michael Russo of the Star Tribune believes that it is ridiculous that Benoit Pouliot is currently playing in the AHL.
• Impressive rookie Torrey Mitchell took an unusual route to the NHL for a kid growing up in Quebec.
• The Panthers are off to a rough start having been beaten by a combined six goals over their first two regular season contests. The Panthers went through the motions in the second and third periods writes George Richards of the Miami Herald.
• The Kings did a poor job of protecting a 3-1 lead and it cost them as the Blues came back and defeated them 5-3 in the Kings' home opener.
• Blues' rookie Erik Johnson scored his first NHL goal on Saturday night and it turned out to be the game winner. In one of the more sentimental stories on this Sunday morning, Andy Murray coached against his son Brady last night and Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Dispatch has the story.
• Dallas defenseman Mattias Nortstrom wants to forget the team's performance versus Nashville on Saturday and focus on the team's solid performance versus Boston the night before.
• As John Glennon writes in this morning's Tennessean, goaltender Chris Mason was only seven minutes away from his second consecutive shutout.
• Coach Wayne Gretzky has been preaching to his young team to keep the powerplay simple writes Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Prospect Pulse: Petr Kalus

Much like RP, I also attended the Wild-Sabres game Monday night in Grand Forks. While none of the regulars put much effort into the game, a number of rookies put forth an effort. Petr Kalus, obtained by Minnesota in the Manny Fernandez trade, was one of those players.

A shifty, offensive forward, Kalus struggled as a junior in his native Czech Republic, but blossomed offensively when he came to the WHL's Regina Pats. After finishing second in scoring amongst WHL rookies and tied for the Pats' team lead, Kalus was chosen in the 2nd Round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He had a strong training camp for the Bruins in the fall of 2006, and was assigned to Providence of the AHL. Kalus had a strong rookie campaign with the Baby Bruins, posting 30 points in 43 games and scoring 5 points (including 4 goals) in a 9 game stint with the big club.

Projected as a top two line forward, Kalus may get a look on the top line with Slovaks Pavol Demitra and Marion Gaborik. Scouting reports on Kalus focus on his individual 1 on 1 skills and his skating, and are also pleased with his ability to go into traffic. Kalus is said to possess a good attitude and a willingness to accept coaching. Defensively responsible, the lone negative note on Kalus is that he doesn't use his nasty side more often. Prospect Pulse feels that spending some time with Derek Boogaard should help that problem.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-Cam Neely named a VP in the Boston Bruins organization.

-TSN with a number of candidates for a breakout season.

-The Senators Ray Emery will make his pre-season debut tonight.

-The Anaheim Ducks acquired Mark Mowers from the Boston Bruins in exchange for Brent Skinner and Nathan Saunders.

-The Clarkson Golden Knights are tops in the ECAC preseason poll.

-Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun wonders if Kyle Wellwood is the victim of a medical mishap.

-The Arizona Republic with a story on the Coyotes' BIG Line.

-Robert Tychowski of the Edmonton Sun notes that Oilers' prospect Sam Gagner may be talking contract with the Oilers. In related news, Anson Carter is back skating.

-Anze Kopitar with a hat-trick as the Kings beat Red Bull Salzburg 7-6.

-Spector notes that the Bruins may be close to signing Danny Markov. Just a rumour, but I thought it was interesting all the same.

-Bruce Dowbiggin reports that Mikka Kiprusoff is looking for a contract in the $7 million per year range.

-In related news, Darren Dreger of TSN notes that Dany Heatley is seeking a contract in the $8.5 million per year range.

-Ansar Khan reports that the Detroit Red Wings have made several cuts, including Jason Cullimore and former Manitoba Moose Adam Keefe.

-Footage of the Rangers-Islanders brawl, courtesy of YouTube.

-Kevin Mio of the Montreal Gazette notes that the Canadiens may lose a few players to waivers. Note that they demoted Jamie Rivers.

-Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports that Glen Metropolit is close to earning a job with the Bruins, and that Bobby Allen is once again in tough to gain a roster spot.

-The Palm Beach Post says their is an open roster spot up for grabs with the Florida Panthers.

-Vancouver Giants coach Don Hay apologetic after a fight filled contest with Everett. Note that he was also fined $500.

-The full Canadian Press interview with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.

-Check out this sweet goal by Juuso Puustinen of the Kamloops Blazers. (Hat tip, Taking Note)

-Allan Houston of the Globe and Mail discusses the problems with the NHL expanding to Europe.

-The transcript of an interview with Vincent Lecavalier. Very interesting read.

-Three interesting stories from Fanhouse. Note the discussion on the Oilers possibly rushing Sam Gagner to the NHL.

-Roberto Luongo vows to quit if the NHL adopts larger nets.

-The Leafs' Jiri Tlusty still hanging around at Leafs' camp.

-Paul Henderson says he is still remembered for 1972.

-Danny Groulx looking to provide experience to a young Moose team.

-Are Tanguay and Keenan the new odd couple?

-Randy Sportak details the Calgary Flames' reactions to the new Rbk jerseys.

-An emergency room nurse in the Rob Ramage case says that Ramage did not appear drunk despite a high blood alcohol level.

-The Nashville Predators will look to Alexander Radulov to replace their lost goal scoring.

-Stan Fischler notes that many of Iron Mike Keenan's players respect him more after the fact.

-Wes Goldstein reports that Alex Ovechkin practices his English on girls.

-The CBC details Wade Belak's experiences playing hockey in England.

-Ryan Hollweg will not accept the apology of Chris Simon.

-Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review says that the Pens are concerned about their powerplay.

-Good news in the desert as a number of Coyotes players and prospects are performing well.

-Doug Harrison of CBC Sports interviews the Flames' Matthew Lombardi.

-Benoit Pouliot impressed Coach Lemaire Monday night in Grand Forks.

-Another story on the Panthers Cory Murphy.

-The Bruins demote top prospect Tuuka Rask.

-The Sporting News with a pre-season review of the Bruins.

-The Blues want to end their "sloppy" play.

-Craig Custance goes interactive to get readers to help pick the Thrashers forwards for the upcoming season.

-The Score with news that goalies are seeing a lot of shots this pre-season. Also a note on Nicklas Bergfors of the New Jersey Devils.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

Prospect Pulse

The Rangers' Alex Bourret might be one of the best examples of a highly touted prospect flying under the radar. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, Bourret continued to improve his play after his draft year, posting a nearly 30 point improvement in the 2005-2006 QMJHL season. Injured early in his first pro campaign, Bourret bounced back and was producing nicely for the Chicago Wolves when he was traded to the Hartford Wolfpack, the Rangers AHL affiliate.

He posted 18 points in the final 23 games with Hartford while skating on the top line with Nigel Dawes and Jarko Immonen. Bourret stepped up his game in the playoffs, going 3-8-11 in 7 games. The improved performance at crunch time may be Bourret's calling card, as he has produced at least a point per game in all the playoff series' in which he has been involved.

A combination of impressive skill and physical tenacity, Bourret does not shy away from the corners or traffic and can make plays in both of these areas. He will stick up for teammates and is not afraid to intimidate opponents with his size. The knock on Bourret is his consistency, but this can be said about any young player, so I don't know why scouts even bother anymore. Like other young players, Bourret will make bad decisions with and without the puck from time to time.

Bourret noted that his slow start in the AHL was partially due to the fact that he spoke no English and had trouble adjusting to life in Chicago. Wolves Coach John Anderson took the right approach, pairing him with a French teammate and giving him the odd game in the press box with an assignment to watch what players do in certain situations.

The Rangers expect Bourret to be a solid two way player who grows into his offensive game. If he can build on his impressive first year of pro hockey, he will be a legitimate top line forward who can score from anywhere. Currently playing well at Rangers' camp, Bourret may get an extended look from the Rangers thanks to his physical play and offensive prowess.

A video interview with Bourret can be found here.

UPDATE: Alex Bourret was sent back to Hartford by the Rangers.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Avs' prospect and Michigan alum TJ Hensick hopes to make the team out of camp.

-A look at the Rangers' top prospects from Hockey's Future.

-The Coyotes have their own MySpace page. Oh Phoenix, the rest of the world, including Illegal Curve, is on Facebook. Only pedophiles and Marc Hoe are left on MySpace.

-RDS reporting that the Sharks may be interested in Halak. If Price plays well in camp, Halak may be expendable.

-Martin Gerber stops 52 shots for a shutout in London, Ontario. This might help Ottawa move him, if thats what their intentions are.

-Oilers tough guy? Zach Stortini fighting for a job.

-The Sabres' Larry Quinn still mad at Edmonton for the Vanek offer sheet, won't consult Edmonton in preparation for the Ice Bowl. Also news in Buffalo, Quinn misses nap time, throws tantrum, gets sent to bed without supper.

-Former Prospect Pulse feature Marco Insam cut by the Regina Pats. May be headed to the USHL or Italian pro hockey.

-Top Ten Stories to watch in the OHL.

-Live-blogging from Capitals' camp.

-The WHL roundup from Taking Note.

-Interesting insight from the Bruins' Andrew Alberts.

-Jonathan Toews gives Chicago fans a taste of his talent. Also note that the Blackhaws returned Akim Aliu to junior.

-North Bay impresses. Maybe Jim Balsillie can move a team here?

-Kip Brennan takes down Zdeno Chara in a fight. Do the B's really want Chara fighting in the pre-season?

-Greg Wyshynski weighs in on expansion over at Fanhouse. Also note the Senators preview below main story.

-Offside looks at Dominik Hasek.

-The Wild look to start the year with clearly defined roles in net.

-Capitals pin their hopes on Nylander.

-A preview of the OHL.

-A Buffalo Sabres preview.

-The WHL Top Ten list.

-Voice of the Jets howling mad over his treatment by the Coyotes.

-An update on the Rob Ramage situation.

-Nick Foligno adjusting to the pro game.

-Wes Goldstein analyzes goalie competitions in the NHL.

-Tampa Bay still experimenting with line combinations.

-Lightning camp exhausting for players.

-Results from the minors and juniors.

-NHL Board of Governors agree to schedule changes.

-Naslund told to shoot more if he wants to increase production. I am labelling this one as obvious.

-Vokoun not concerned about poor outing in Edmonton.

-Coyotes hope a road trip will produce a clear cut #1 goalie.

-News and notes from Stan Fischler. Note that the NHL is moving its HQ in New York and will be opening a hockey store.

-Oilers and Leafs talk in the Six-pack.

-Team by team checklists from the Score. Note that the Blues have invited Mike Johnson to training camp.

Note: For our returning readers, we at Illegal Curve would be more than pleased if you had any comments on our articles or news stories. We have a plethora of writers who would love to discuss the topics and enlighten you with our always accurate opinions.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Oliver Setzinger, originally drafted by the Nashville Predators in the 3rd Round (76th overall) of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, has finally made the jump to North America. After bouncing around various European leagues, the Austrian national team member returned to the Austrian League and began to put up big numbers. The 6'0, 200 lb. center is said to possess good skating and puck skills, in addition to being a hard and motivated worker. More of a set-up man than a scorer, Setzinger uses his size well to create room for teammates.

A posting on the European hockey forums cited an interview with Setzinger saying that he felt Nashville was not serious about bringing him to North America, and that he was very willing to make the jump. A late bloomer as prospects go, he was contacted by the Predators during his strong 2006-2007 campaign and has made his way to Tennessee looking for work in North America. He signed a contract with Nashville in February of last year and to the Preds' relief, reported to camp.

Currently playing LW in Predators training camp, Setzinger was skating on a line with Scott Nichol and JP Dumont. In the opening pre-season game, he was bumped out of the lineup but is expected to play in the next contest. Notes from Nashville fans say that he plays a pretty strong positional and defensive game, but seemed to have some initial trouble with the pace. Once he settled down, he made some good passes, but was otherwise not noteworthy. Look for Setzinger to start the year in the AHL.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Mirtle with a calender of important NHL dates. Also note his link about Nashville raising ticket prices.

-Hemsky pleased with his performance in the Joey Moss Cup. The first real test comes tonight, against the visiting Florida Panthers.

-Oiler blogger Lowetide with a player by player assessment from the aforementioned Joey Moss Cup.

-Radim Vrbata strong in his Coyotes debut.

-London Knights start the year ranked at #1

-Jiri Fischer up, around and in Gatineau.

-One armed player Scott Stafford signs with the Sarnia Blast of the WOHL. (Video)

-Sens interested in Jeff O'Neill? The Toronto Sun also notes that the Sens may have an interest in Cujo.

-Ten Camps worth watching.

-Is Naslund done in the NHL?

-Is a big season by Mike Fisher good or bad for the Sens?

-In breaking news, Sens sign Fisher to an extension. This basically makes my last news item moot, but I will leave it in anyways, for historical perspective. I am sure readers will reminisce about the 5 seconds ago when they were worried Mike Fisher might be on his way out of Ottawa. Scary days my friends, scary days.

-The Regina Pats' Logan Pyett looks to build upon his Super Series experience.

-The best WHL roundup around is found at Taking Note.

-Allan Maki reports on the NHL implications of a rising Canadian dollar.

-Aaron Ward not happy with the pre-season predictions. (Hat Tip, Kukla)

-The Hockey News' Adam Proteau responds to Ward.

-The NHLPA recorded phone calls. Dick Cheney for NHLPA President.

-A profile of Canucks prospect Alex Burrows.

-A Devils preview.

-Alan Muir of SI with a suggestion that Lowe is looking to move Pitkanen. This isn't going to happen. Muir fails to note that Pitkanen recently signed this one year deal with Edmonton and figures to be their #1 defenseman in the near future, if not now.

-Isbister hits Luongo in the throat with a slapper. Are the Canucks trying to hurt their #1 Goalie. Do they realize they can't score and need this guy to win them games?

-An interesting Blues blog.

-As noted last week, former QMJHL sniper Simon Gamache is in camp with the Leafs. Michael Traikos reports that things are looking good.

-Former Prospect Pulse feature Max Pacioretty looks to liven up U of Michigan's lineup.

-More Kings' season previews at Battle of California.

-Wild goalie Josh Harding with a mask memorializing the I-35 bridge collapse.

-Players on the Hotseat for this year.

-Line combination news and notes from the Score.

-Marc Denis looks good in Bolts' camp.

-Razor with an interesting take on cheaters in sport.

-Oilers unable to get Karamnov signed.

-Kasparitis wants back on the Rangers.

-A goaltending controversy in Denver?

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Today I let my wife pick the feature on Prospect Pulse. She is bored sitting at home recovering from surgery, and I thought it would give her something to do. The good news is that she chose an Oiler prospect, the bad news is that she chose a kid who looks like the lead in High School Musical: Stars on Ice. (Hat tip to Lowetide for the picture)

William Quist, taken in the 6th Round (157th overall) by the Oilers in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, is a 6-3 185 pound winger from Sweden. Though he doesn't appear to have a myriad of offensive skill (judging by the numbers), he does have good size and reach. Said to possess a technically skilled game and be able to use his intelligence to his advantage, Quist seemsto fall under the Project label. Working in his favor is the fact that is he an above average skater with a long reach and good hands. While this doesn't automatically translate into a NHL career, it does suggest that if Quist can continue to mature and use his reach, hands and intelligence, he may play himself onto an NHL roster.

Other teams, most notably the Detroit Red Wings, have had success looking to Sweden in the late rounds of drafts. In an interview with the Pipeline Show, Quist mentioned that he was very excited to be drafted by the Oilers (a boilerplate answer, I am sure) and that he going to play one more year in Sweden with Tingsryd in the Swedish Junior league so that he can graduate from high school. He came to camp this year to get a taste of the North American game and get acclimated to the Oilers' style of play. Asked to describe himself as a player, Quist noted that he grew an inch to 6-4 and put on five pounds(for a total of 190) of muscle. He feels that he is a good two way player who can use his size effectively and is looking to make the jump to the Swedish Elite League this winter. He also noted he has a "good stick". I am sure the girls in Edmonton will be thrilled, especially following the news that Raffi Torres is going to focus on hockey this year.


News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Consider checking out the Pipeline Show on September 18th. Lots of great insight into WHL prospects.

-Oilers and Springfield Falcons new uniforms. I am not a fan, though I do like the orange. Check out the response by Oilers fandom here.

-Les Sabres have suspended Teppo Numminen for failing to report to camp in good physical condition. He has a heart condition. The Sabres' brass had better hire themselves a good PR firm, as this has disaster written all over it. First they lose both captains, and now this. Numminen doesn't deserve this kind of treatment.

-A link to every new jersey. (Hat tip, Mirtle)

-Oilers looking to forget last year. Me too.

-Kings open the pre-season with a win. New face Kyle Calder with 2 goals to pace the team, and Cloutier with stellar 7 of 10 goaltending.

-Good run-down of training camp activity by the Score. Note that Phil Kessel may be moved to center. Also note that Krys Kolanos (Flames), Adam Hall (Penguins) and Mark Smith (Rangers) are participating in training camps. Still no Mike Johnson...

-David Tanabe in camp with the Blues.

-Team Canada captain Milan Lucic may get an extended look by the Bruins.

-A preview of the Minnesota Wild. This is just for you, Pipers.

-A recap (pun intended) of the Caps first day of training camp.

-Steve Rucchin fails his physical at Thrashers camp.

-Six goalies vie for jobs at Coyotes camp. Can they use all six at once, just to keep it close?

-Luongo the comedian. Note his quote when asked to describe the collision with Cowan.

-More on the gayest hockey movie ever.

-Blackhawks preach puck possession. And if you don't like it, they will take their puck and go home.

-USA Today Hockey Power Rankings.

-Kevin Allen sees the East as a toss up.

-Trevor Linden discusses the changes in training camps over the years.

-A discussion of Eric Lindros' chances for the Hall of Fame.

-Simon Gamache looking for a job at Leafs camp.

-Six players to watch. Just days ago it was 5 Players to Watch!

-Doug Janik impresses with his speed at Lightning camp.

-Bruins positive to start the season. Related: Chiarelli looks to make Bruins relevant in Boston's sportscape.

-Finally, a comprehensive look at what team employs tarts to clean the ice. Meow.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Max Pacioretty, the Montreal Canadiens 2nd 2007 First Rounder, is headed for the University of Michigan this fall ( I wonder if he can play football?). Last year's USHL rookie of the year, Pacioretty is projected as power forward, with good around the net instinct and a quick release. Also shows good aptitude on the power play, where he can run the offense from the half boards by making smart passes and distributing the puck with intelligence. Proficient in the face-off circle, he was a participant in USA Hockey's Junior evaluation camp and hopes to represent his country at the World Junior's this Christmas.

Capable of playing a two way game, Max lists Jed Ortemeyer as his favorite player but models his game after Keith Tkachuk. McKeen's projects that he will be NHL ready in a couple of years, but needs to work on consistency (like all young players), strength and defensive awareness. (Sidebar: I truly hope I live to see the day that an NHL coach will just come out and say, "Player X is an offensive talent and I intend to use him in that capacity". I am a little tired of stifled creativity.) Pacioretty himself acknowledges his need for more upper body strength, but wants to maintain his speed and agility. He also wants to improve his goal scoring efficiency. Max has actually improved his offensive totals in each of his last 3 years of hockey.

Of note, Pacioretty was born in California and moved to Connecticut as a child. He is the only member of his family to play hockey. His parents signed him up for skating and he kept pushing himself to get better, including moving away from home to attend Taft Prep School. Max credits his coaches at Taft for making him the player he is today, and further credits Dave Siciliano of the Sioux City Musketeers with teaching him about intensity and attention to detail.

The Montreal Canadiens feel that Pacioretty will address their need for a pure power forward. Noting the success that players such as Eric Cole have had against their club, the Habs sought out the 6-1, 200 lb. forward to fill this niche. Prospect Pulse feels that a couple of years in Michigan under Red Berenson will have Pacioretty in the bleu, blanc et rouge in no time.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Hawks fans have reason for optimism this year. Time for all two of you to get out the closet and embrace this team, they should be fun to watch under Denis Savard.

-Flames Prospect Brandon Prust will have to postpone his debut til he is 100%. (TSN Broadband)

-Clement Jodoin attempts to rebuild the Oceanic in the post-Crosby era.

-Blues optimistic about the future. JD has done a great job.

-Lyon Messier traded from the Oil Kings to the Rockets. No Moose Jr. for Oil fans this year.

-The Leafs unveil their new jerseys. Pretty nice all together.

-SI's Allan Muir notes 15 players to watch in training camps. I would not be shocked if Commie-seeking missile Brandon Sutter got a look this fall.

-The new Avs jerseys. Meh.

-Illegal Curve noted yesterday that FA Brent Sopel was in Red Wings camp. Babcock now sees his as a Top 4 d-man.

-Man bites dog. George W. and Hilary caught in romantic tryst. In other news, Refs play hockey.

-Rangers prospect Alex Bourret has something to prove.

-The Avs cut 11 players, most notably Peterborough's Trevor Cann, a highly touted goalie.

-A run down of Canucks prospects.

-Benjamin Rubin reaches compromise that will allow him to play this season. On that note, a pleasant Rosh Hosannah to our Chosen Readers.

-Former Moose Jaw Warrior Robin Big Snake arrives in Texas. This is a little off the NHL's radar, but I love that name.

-Former Prospect Pulse feature Marco Insam still in the mix at Regina Pats' camp.

-Top pick Erik Johnson ready to go.

-Transaction report from last night.

-Carol Alt not missing Yashin that much. I wonder if Alt is teaching Lundqvist about the 5-hole?

-Patrick Roy, Rbk and Zellers team up for a new line of footwear. Perfect for walking out on the Canadiens or kicking your wife.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.