News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Richard Peddie admits that hiring John Ferguson Jr. was a mistake.
2. Scott Hartnell is suspended for 2 games for his hit on Andrew Alberts.
3. The Oilers are still bring up the rear in TSN's Power Rankings.
4. Mats Sundin is unfazed by all the turmoil in Toronto.
5. Hockey Hearsay notes that Mark Recchi is questioning his role with the Penguins.
6. Pierre Lebrun of Sportsnet writes that Maple Leaf owners need look no further than themselves when wondering why the Leafs suck.
7. Team Canada pads its lead to 3-1 with another victory over the Ruskies.
8. The Weekly Release from the USHL.
9. Ten Things Overheard at the BU-Cornell game at MSG.
10. Todd Bertuzzi expects a positive reaction in his return to Vancouver.
11. The Forechecker looks at who is over and under performing.
12. Eric Duhatschek discusses the NHL Board of Governor's Meetings.
13. Al Strachan feels that NHL GM's are becoming more vulnerable to the whims of owners.
14. The sale of the Lightning has produced a snag and will result in the inevitable lawsuit.
15. Check out Milan Lucic's blog from The Hockey News.
16. The Junior Report from nhl.com.
17. Itching for ECHL news? Scratch that itch.
18. Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf discuss their chemistry.
19. The Longest Road Trip.
20. Michael Farber thinks the Dominator is done.
21. Fanhouse feels that beer and youth hockey don't mix. My misspent childhood hockey career and liver beg to differ.
22. Guy Lafleur takes a shot at Les Habitants.
23. The National Post with a look around the league.
24. The Hockey News with its list of Hot Prospects.
25. The Score notes that some top goalies are finding their game again.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

Due to a large number of late day transactions at my place of business, this post is wayyyyy late. The good news is that we will have some exciting new features very shortly. Until then, here are a few late night tidbits.

-Jason Spezza has suffered a groin pull and is day to day.
-Derian Hatcher could miss a month with suspected cartilage damage in his knee.
-NHL.com looks at the emerging talent in the Swedish Elite League.
-Predators owner Craig Leopold has extended the deadline for a local group to purchase the team.
-The excitement is growing in Chicago.
-Bruins goaltender Jordan Sigalet, who suffers from MS, has been recalled from Providence.
-Paul Maurice bag skates the Maple Leafs.
-Saku Koivu forced to defend his lack of French language skills. Montreal fans should thank their lucky stars Esa Tikkanen isn't their captain. Could he speak any language?
-Pierre Lebrun with a list of best and worsts from the first month of the season.
-Eddie Belfour wins his Swedish Elite League debut.
-Matt Greene is out for 3 months with a broken ankle. The Oilers are about 1 injury away from scouting the Adult Safe Hockey League.
-Scott Morrison says there will be no easy answers in the Rick Tocchet situation.
-Inside College Hockey looks at the early favorites for the Hobey Baker.
-The Score notes that Jannik Hansen is expected to be recalled by the Canucks. Do they really need a soft Dane with few offensive skills that badly?
-Ontario man may have the puck that won the 1972 Summit Series.
-A rash of injuries will test the Oilers depth.
-Adam Proteau with a vain attempt to tie Halloween to Hockey.
-The Clarkson Cup, awarded to the top women's team in Canada, faces an uncertain future.
-TJ Oshie is the WCHA Player of the Week.
-Solid drafting helps the Wings win in the salary cap era.
-Harvey Rosen with a look at the accomplishments of some Jewish hockey players.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse: Nigel Williams

Williams, a Colorado draft pick, started last season with the University of Wisconsin Badgers. Upset with his lack of ice time, 1 game played, he bolted for the Ontario Hockey League over the Christmas break, and proceeded to tear it up, registering 36 points in 46 games as a defenseman.

Williams has followed up that success with a hot start in Sagninaw. In 7 games, he has registered 9 points. Standing 6'5 and weighing 225 pounds, Williams is that rare combination of size and skill. He has improved his point totals as he has progressed through hockey without sacrificing his mean streak.

Once projected to go as high at 11th overall in the NHL draft, Williams slipped to the 2nd round because of his problems at Wisconsin. Though the program was upset with Williams for leaving, he felt that he needed to play in order to develop. He has the size and speed to be an NHL defender but his decision making has not caught up with his puck skills. An avid roller hockey player, Williams is said to be fearless and easily coachable.

Though Williams is likely a few years away from the NHL, he continues to climb up the Avalanche list of top prospects, currently sitting at #6. Keep an eye on this one.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-Bob McKenzie feels that the NHL should have no problem handing Jesse Boulerice a long term suspension.

-After one game, Carey Price is the new Saint Patrick.

-The St. Paul police name Dwayne Roloson an honorary officer.

-Inside College Hockey names its pre-season All-Americans.

-Eric Duhatschek doesn't think that Boulerice's apology will help him.

-No link yet, but TSN was reporting that the Penguins and Lightning will indeed open next season in Prague.

-Oilers blogger Lowetide reports that Ethan Moreau's bruised foot may in fact be broken.

-The WHL has approved the sale of the Kamloops Blazers.

-Rocky Wirtz re-assigns Bob Pulford.

-Rob Ramage found guilty on all five counts. Loses US residency.

-Panthers prospect Shawn Matthias figures he can work himself into the NHL.

-Dave Scatchard is with the Rangers on a try-out basis.

-The Devils expect to be able to deal Richard Matvichuk soon.

-The Top 10 teams in Canadian college hockey.

-Mirtle with a look at each team's most used power play players.

-No sophomore jinx in sight for Paul Statsny.

-Ray Emery sent down to Binghamton for conditioning. Somebody warn the drivers.

-Niitymaki hopes to stick with the Flyers.

-A dandy of a fight courtesy of Fanhouse.

-On Frozen Blog notes that the NHLFA is enjoying its 10th Anniversary.

-Steve Yzerman tells the crowd in South Bend that they may be the new Hockeytown.

-Fanhouse wonders if fighting is on the rise in the NHL.

-Stan Fischler takes a look at what is ailing the Rangers. Maybe Scott Gomez could stop counting his money long enough to put up some points?

-The Sioux City Musketeers have put a lot of thought into nicknaming their lone French player. Please write to Illegal Curve and collect your 10 cents if you guessed Frenchy.

-The Beaver County Times reports that Michel Therien is furious over the Penguins lack of effort.

-Lightning Strikes notes that the Ottawa Senators are the second choice for who will play the Penguins in Prague next season.

-Two ex-Medicine Hat Tigers meet up in Motown.

-Suicide watches abound in Toronto as the Leafs are already in must-win territory.

-News and notes from around the AHL. Notice that the Moose make their debut tonight a full 8 days after the rest of the AHL.

-Mats Sundin still has hope for the season.

-John Buccigross' mailbag.

-Interesting website for the hockey fanatic.

-Battle of Alberta with a list of questions they would like to ask a coach.

-Scott Morrison laments on what the Boulerice incident will do to hockey.

-Razor will a slap in the face letter from Dallas to Buffalo.

-Ten Questions for the Bruins.

-The NHL will use a compresses schedule in 2008-2009.

-Marc Savard will continue to sit and rest his groin.

-Covered in Oil with thoughts on last night's snooze-fest in St. Paul.

-The Dallas Stars have activated Mike Ribeiro.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse: Chris Vande Velde

Vande Velde, an Edmonton Oilers 2nd rounder, in a Moorhead, Minnesota native who came up through the USHL and now plays with the UND Fighting Sioux. As such, I have the opportunity to see him quite often. He was a fringe player last year who often didn't play more than 3 or 4 minutes a game. He figures to have a breakout season in the WCHA this year, and if his first game against Manitoba was any indication, Vande Velde has arrived in the NCAA.

Vande Velde logged a lot of ice time in the first game for the Sioux, lining up as the 2nd line center and playing a regular shift. He figures to get time on the 1st PP unit and the 1st PK and will definitely be a contributor this season. The hulking centerman has learned to use his frame to his advantage and will be able to lean on smaller defensmen to create chances down low. In addition to his skills on the cycle and in front of the net, Vande Velde is a smooth skater with surprising speed. His large size is intimidating in full flight and he can use it to back defenders into the zone.

Vande Velde, who wears #29 for the Sioux, is a smart player who also plays a strong defensive game. He is very physical and has a knack for jamming up passing and shooting lanes. Watch for him to put up big numbers on this potent Sioux team. To cap things off, my wife also recently declared him her new favorite hockey player. Where have you gone Mike Peca?

A Q and A with Vande Velde can be found here.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-The Philadelphia Flyers have signed All-Star hopeful Rory Fitzpatrick. Vote Rory!

-Carey Price and Kyle Chipchura get their first taste of action tonight.

-The Gretzky's are holding a garage sale.

-Attendance woes in Detroit continue.

-I meant to post this yesterday and forgot. The Ducks have demoted Bobby Ryan.

-Eric Duhatschek sees Paul Stastny as the best American NHL'er. On that note, the transcript of a conference call with Stastny.

-Nike a victim of hockey's declining popularity in the US. Hockey Rants weighs in on the issue and notes that Rbk is making some of the same mistakes.

-The Capitals are confident that they can reach the playoffs, but aren't resting on their early season laurels.

-Cam Ward dropped 24 pounds in the off-season and is off to a good start.

-Taking Note observes that Wild prospect Colton Gillies had 5 point night versus the Regina Pats. Coach Lemaire will not be happy that he is scoring more than 1 goal per game. Thats not Wild hockey.

-On Frozen Blog writes that Capitals prospect Jeff Schultz has been sent down to Hershey.

-Lightning defender Brad Lukowich has his own record company.

-There are two Chris Chelios'.

-Interesting story out of Pittsburgh about the longest serving member of each team.

-The Edmonton Oilers have recalled JF Jacques from Springfield. Either a trade is looming or they need someone to play 3 minutes a night.

-Patrik Stefan has retired from the NHL.

-Note this video of David Koci getting the decision in this fight with Derek Boogaard.

-The Canadian Federal government has ponied up $400,000 for the World Pond Hockey Championships in New Brunswick.

-The Flames hope to forget last year's dismal road record.

-A good story on an atom team in Toronto with some famous names on the jerseys.

-NHL Players will lose 9.5 percent of their cheques to an escrow payment this year.

-The Flames called up a goalie from Mount Royal College to help out in college. Note that he bested Kiprusoff in the scrimmage.

-Ex-Bruins doing ok in LA.

-Martin Havlat will be out at least a month in the best case scenario.

-A little puff piece on Nik Lidstrom.

-Stan Fischler wonders who will replace Sean Avery.

-The Coyotes' Josh Gratton is still a week away from action.

-Jose Theodore should be activated by this Friday, as backup Tyler Weiman has already been demoted.

-Oiler Blogger Lowetide with an update on former and current Oiler prospects drafted between 1999 and 2003.

-Power Rankings from the CBC.


For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse: Nico Sachetti

Nico Sacchetti, the 50th overall pick by the Dallas Stars in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, is a native of Virginia, Minnesota. While playing in the Iron Range, Sacchetti scored an astounding 90 points in 25 high school games his senior year. After also representing the United States at the World Under-18 championships (4 gp, 1-1-2), he graduated to the USHL. Sacchetti, who will suit up for the Omaha Lancers, is a good skater who plays bigger than his 5'11, 189 lb frame.

In the games I witnessed, it was clear that he possesses an abundance of skill and hockey sense. He also seems to be blessed with a number of intangible qualities that should make him a prized prospect. He will play in traffic, he competes hard and he sees the ice very well. I saw him dominate down low on a powerplay for nearly the full two minutes, and the puck seems to follow him around.

There is precious little information about Sacchetti on the internet, but it looks like the future Minnesota Golden Gopher will be a good one. Watch for him in the WCHA next year.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-Andrew Raycroft will get the start tonight for the Buds.

-A 16 year old hockey player from St.Louis has collapsed and died during a practice.

-A season preview for the Binghamton Senators.

-Craig Leopold will have to search for another buyer, as the Preds' deal is expected to collapse.

-The Vancouver Canucks claim defenseman Mike Weaver off the waiver wire.

-The wife of former NHL'er Emile Francis is found alive.

-Eric Duhatschek answers some pressing questions.

-The Bruins have made it official by signing veteran forward Glen Metropolit.

-Stephen Brunt reports on the haves and the have-nots of the hockey world.

-The Regina Pats pick up talented forward Tim Kraus from the Vancouver Giants.

-The St. Louis Blues have demoted Petr Cajanek to Peoria and are expected to sign Mike Johnson.

-The Columbus Blue Jackets placed Kris Beech on waivers.

-Hockey Rants has some interesting discussion on the impending collapse of the Predators' sale.

-On Frozen Blog with a point form season preview.

-Damien Cox wonders whether the Hawks or the Leafs will have a longer streak of futility.

-In news only my wife cares about, Kelli Pickler has dumped Jordin Tootoo. Apparently he was tootoo timing her.

-nhl.com gets a new look.

-Michael Farber with a look around the league.

-Season opening rosters for all 30 NHL teams.

-The National Post with 15 Questions about the NHL Season. This is a huge improvement over the usual 10.

-Mike Zeisberger compares the Leafs to a soap opera.

-Burke still angry with the Oilers. I realize this has been posted and discussed already, but I feel Burke really needs to let this one go. Its over, you have your draft picks and you have made your point already. Letting this get in the way of your job is doing a disservice to your team.

-The BlueJackets feel they are a playoff team. Yeah, and I feel that my wife should make me cookies every day. Doesn't mean its going to happen.

-Leaf's broadcaster Joe Bowen to be honoured for 25 years of service.

-11 Stories to watch in the NHL this year. Note that there are apparently attendance problems in Detroit this year.

-The Philadelphia Flyers have signed Jesse Boulerice and Jim Dowd.

-The Minnesota Wild get no respect.

-David Branch discusses the OHL's new penalty designed to limit shots to the head.

-One lawyer accuses another of lying in the Canucks saga.

-A preview of the Montreal Canadiens.

-A good mix of youth and experience on Canada's Women's hockey roster.

-Rob Rossi notes that the Penguins are built for long term success.

-Tom Powers hopes that the Wild bring relief for suffering Minnesota sports fans.

-Chuck Kobasew is hoping to stick on the 2nd line with Sturm and Bergeron.

-Chris Gratton hopes a contact lens will allow him to play in the season opener.

-The Boston Herald notes that no fan fare accompanied the decision to keep Milan Lucic.

-Wes Walz looks to get time on the top line. Only on Jacques Lemaire's team...

-The season preview from the New York Times.

-Craig Custance wonders which rookie will make the biggest impact in Atlanta.

-BREAKING NEWS: The Senators have signed Dany Heatley to a 6 year, $45 million extension.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse: Scott Darling

First, I would like to apologize for my prolonged absence. I was attending the USHL's Fall Classic Tournament in Sioux City, Iowa. Today's Prospect Pulse will feature one of the stars of the show, Indiana Ice goaltender Scott Darling.

Darling appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, to place 11th on the list of draft eligible North American goalies. Playing in relative obscurity in the Eastern Junior Hockey League, Darling posted a 9-9-3 record with a 3.37 GAA. All of this after being cut by the North American Hockey League. Despite the adversity, Darling's play was enough to get him a scholarship to the University of Maine and drafted by the Indiana Ice and the Phoenix Coyotes.

A monstrous 6'6, Darling fits the mold of fellow Black Bear Ben Bishop and plays a similar style of game. He covers a lot of net, but is quite athletic for a 6'6 goaltender. When in the butterfly, there is virtually no net for a shooter to see. In games this weekend, Darling was at times stellar, getting beat only once (on a deflection) in the game I saw live. Indiana's defense was porous for most of the weekend, and Darling saw a lot of work and a lot of traffic.

That being said, he was alway square to the shooter and is very strong positionally. He does have a tendency to give up rebounds, which hurt this weekend because the defense were not clearing anything. Going forward, I think Phoenix will have a very good prospect on their hands. Many of the NHL scouts in attendance were pleased with his play, though most thought of him as a project. His game should improve now that he is in a better league.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-The Grand Forks Herald with 10 Questions for the UND Fighting Sioux

-TSN repots that Sam Gagner, Nick Foligno and Carey Price have all made their respective clubs out of camp. Also note in the same article that Kyle Chipchura and Mikail Grabovski have also made the Canadiens.

-On the flip-side, Jiri Tlusty and Jay Harrison were cut by the Maple Leafs.

-The Philadelphia Flyers have named Jason Smith their new captain.

-Former UND Fighting Sioux Brady Murray makes his NHL debut.

-Sportsnet with a roundup from the CHL.

-The Omaha Lancers capture the USHL's Fall Classic with a perfect record. They were absolutely dominant in the game I saw them play.

-Leaf's defenseman Carlo Coliacovo to miss both games against the Senators.

-A very in-depth article about Oiler's coach Craig MacTavish. Note the brief mention of his time in jail, part of which was spent in a cell with a pail for toilet? Did he serve time in Thailand?

-Inside College Hockey with a list of the Top 20 Freshman forwards in the NCAA.

-A preview of College Hockey America. Note that this may be the final year for CHA, with Wayne State suspending operations for Men's hockey after this season.

-Inside College Hockey with the Top 20 Freshman defenders in the NCAA.

-You guessed it, here are the goalies.

-Ron McLean signs a 7 year extension at Hockey Night in Canada. Thats a long term deal for someone his age? I guess the CBC is not worried about injury or eroding skill.

-The Sabres' Ales Kotalik is likely to miss the season opener with a knee injury.

-A look at the Avalanche by Avs' bloggers.

-The Capitals signed prospect Tomas Fleischman, and expect him to be in the opening night lineup.

-Eric Duhatschek profiles the feud between the New York Rangers and the NHL.

-Quotes from Wings' coach Mike Babcock on the final cuts he made.

-The Toronto Star's Paul Hunter wonders how fast team's can rebuild in the new NHL.

-Harry Neale has left the Toronto Maple Leafs for the Buffalo Sabres.

-SI's Darren Eliot with a look around the NHL.

-Kris Letang is assigned to Wilkes-Barre by the Penguins.

-A photo gallery of NHL uniforms, past and present, from SI.

-Jim Matheson notes that Jarome Iginla is in favor of 3 on 3 OT. Also note that there may be a job opening with the Polish Ice Hockey Federation, as Krystof Oliwa beat the heck out of his girlfriend.

-Lawrence Nycholat will start the season with the Ottawa Senators. Perhaps a little surprising, but I met him at a wedding this summer and he indicated the Senators told him to buy a house.

-The Manitoba Moose assign 8 to the ECHL, including the son of their Director of Scouting.

-Some law in hockey talk if you are bored and/or Joshua Slayen.

-USA Today with previews for every division.

-Scott Burnside feels that the Kings have found their new stud netminder.

-Burnside also notes that not all the reviews from London were positive. As a side note, there is a ton of hockey content over at ESPN right now.

-The Toronto Maple Leaf's forward lines look a lot like last year.

-Wes Goldstein with the Power Rankings from CBS Sports.

-Dave Molinari feels that Marc-Andre Fleury needs to find consistency this year.

-Berard and Tambellini have their fingers crossed on Long Island.

-Rob Blake to have a role in the new Mike Myers movie.

-Panthers forward Rob Globke has secured the final roster spot in Miami.

-Bruins prospect Milan Lucic survives the final round of cuts in Boston.

-Lighting rookie Mike Lundin happy he made the switch to defense.

-The Boston Herald notes that Manny Fernandez failed to lock down the #1 job during the pre-season.

-The Score with a look at some injuries from around the NHL.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Coyotes prospect Daniel Carcillo caught my eye last night when watching portions of the Leafs-Coyotes game on the internet. I have to admit that I had absolutely no idea who he was until I researched him a little further. Acquired by the Coyotes in the deal that sent Georges Laraque to Pittsburgh, Carcillo does not even appear on the Coyotes Top 20 list of prospects. A Left Winger by trade, Carcillo is best known for his toughness, racking up 311 penalty minutes for Wilkes-Barre in his first professional season of 2005-2006.

A Sean Avery tough guy with talent type, Carcillo had an OHL career plagued by on and off ice troubles. That being said, he possesses a multitude of skills that may translate into an NHL career. He has a booming shot, is ultra physical, not afraid to fight and has good hands in close. On the downside, he is prone to taking bad penalties and can cost his time with ill-timed decisions.

If Carcillo can build upon his already strong showing at Coyotes camp, he may find himself a place on the roster given his blend of offensive talent and sandpaper personality. A listing of Daniel Carcillo's fights can be found here. Note that while he doesn't fight many heavyweights, he isn't shy about dropping the gloves.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-An interview with Springfield Falcons' head coach Kelly Buchberger.

-Rob Vanstone of the Regina Leader-Post predicts the Pats will capture the WHL's Eastern Division in his WHL preview article.

-We noted a couple weeks back that Adam Huxley wrote the Oilers asking for a camp invite. News today indicates that he has earned himself an AHL contract.

-Taking Note with news and notes from the WHL. Note that Team Canada defender Logan Pyett has been named captain of the Regina Pats.

-Eric Duhatschcek notes that the Kings fortunes will rise and fall with Cloutier.

-Jordan Staal embarrassed about bachelor party arrest. This story needs to go away. Who cares? If this is all the trouble NHL'ers get into in the off-season, the league should rest easy. I got into more trouble than this in Grade 9.

-Jeff Gordon looks at 10 players ready to break out.

-Jacques Demers reports for RDS that Cristobal Huet has a leg up on the starting job in Montreal, which may mean that Carey Price starts the year in Hamilton.

-Nick Foligno steps up his game after getting called out by John Paddock.

-WHL Commissioner Ron Robison, the pride of Indian Head, eyes some new rivalries for the start of the 2007-2008 season.

-The OHL will implement new rules this season.

-Capitals hope that their new additions at forward will translate into shootout success.

-One more Lamoureux headed to the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux.

-In sports business news, Nike will sell off its hockey subsidiary.

-A Coyotes preview from Fanhouse.

-In hockey law news, an Illinois court is set to decide on liability for players and coaches involved in a hit from behind.

-The Sharks are sending personnel to Asia to help develop hockey overseas. This can only bring positive returns. There are thriving hockey markets in places you would not expect and sooner or later they will produce NHL talent. Please take a quick look at the website for the Australian Ice Hockey League, run in part by an ex-pat from Saskatchewan.

-In a related note, check out this story from the Ottawa Sun.

-The Devils hope that Zubrus can offset the loss of Scott Gomez. Hopefully 13 goals isn't too taxing for Mr. Zubrus.

-A Rangers preview.

-The New York Times reports that Jagr and Gomez have buried the hatchet. Since its the Times, reader may want to fact check. Also note that George W. Bush was in fact NOT blamed for anything in the article.

-Eric Brewer looks to anchor the blue-line for St. Louis.

-A San Jose Sharks preview.

-The annual draft seen as a road-block to any European expansion. I say don't bother with Europe. Demographics suggest there will be few people left in Europe in a generation or two.

-Tampa Bay Lightning preview.

-Mike Milbury joins the TSN Broadcast Crew. Watch for him to swing a deal involving Dutchy, Bob McKenzie and Jennifer Hedger to Sportsnet for Martine Gaillard and Jim Lang.

-Scott Feschuk wonders why Gretzky won't talk about Tocchet. Leave Gretz alone and let him worry about the Coyotes.

-Cam Ward needed no introduction to Michael Leighton. They had already talked to each other by hand.

-News from the Kings' camp about the #1 goalie battle and on Prospect Pulse feature Brian Boyle.

-The Bruins look for Jeremy Reich to add a physical edge to their game. Note the picture of Baby Bourque below the main story. Does he look like Raymond or what?

-The mailbag from The Hockey News.

-Terry Frei at ESPN notes Eric Lindros not worth the risk for a team to sign him.

-Battle of California with a look at Michal Handzus.

-Martin Brodeur tells USA Today he still feels durable.

-A look at the Flames goaltending from Battle of Alberta.

-Stan Fischler profiles Justin Bourne at the Islanders' camp.

-Penguins look to continue their ascent to the top of the NHL.

-Penguins meet the fans in a town hall meeting.

-News from Kings' camp about the # goalie battle and on Prospect Pulse feature Brian Boyle.

-The Bruins want Jeremy Reich to add a physical element to the team. Note the picture of Baby Bourque below the main story. Does he look like Raymond or what?

-The Miami Herald notes that Cory Murphy is settling into his role nicely.

-The Score notes that Montreal lacks toughness.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

Prospect Pulse

Coyotes' prospect Nick Ross, currently a member of the Regina Pats, intrigues me because he fits my fetish stereotype of a player who can play forward or defense. An offensive defenseman, Ross has good instincts for jumping into the rush and distribute the puck effectively. Once more highly touted than his defense partner Logan Pyett, Ross was moved to forward early in the Pats' season to jump start their slumbering offense.

A feared open ice hitter, Ross' offensive numbers do not yet match his potential. That being said, he plays a strong 2-way game and can contribute in other areas if he is not scoring. With that in mind, the Phoenix Coyotes selected him with the 30th overall pick in the 2007 draft. Not a well known player, Ross never-the-less caught the eye of Hockey Canada and he has participated in the World Under-18 Cup. Pats' Head Coach and Team Canada Assistant Coach Curtis Hunt notes that Ross has great talent but is still adjusting to playing against stiffer competition. He was relegated to a bottom pairing defenseman with Team Canada, a move that Coach Hunt feels will help Ross down the road by highlighting deficiencies in his game.

Still, Ross was able to compete with some relatively famous junior talent, including Thomas Hickey, Luke Schenn and Drew Doughty. Ross himself felt that observing the top talent from Europe helped him to improve his game, especially in regards to positioning. Though GM Don Maloney is pleased with Ross and his talent level, look for him to return to the Pats blueline this winter.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Battle of Alberta has a clarification on yesterday's Allan Maki story on the rising Canadian dollar. Lots of math here, so contact your friendly neighborhood Asian for help. ( I believe RP has Marc Hoe's contact info.)

-Sidney Crosby and Marc-Andre Fleury excited to play a meaningful hockey game outdoors.

-A recap of the the USHL's trip to Quebec for the CCM Junior Classic.

-An interesting read on Coyotes' training camp. Very candid points by Don Maloney.

-Mirtle with a goaltending history lesson complete with charts and graphs. Also note the explanation of the no juniors in the minors rule.

-Coyotes with a local prospect in camp.

-Scheduling a hot topic at NHL Board of Governors' meetings. Also note that expansion came up, with the typical lip service paid to Winnipeg.

-Perhaps the greatest hockey name ever.

-A video montage of Ray Emery's greatest hits and an updated Caps' roster from On Frozen Blog.

-A Q and A with Cory Sarich.

-Flames vets talk about the old days of training camp.

-Rangers and Islanders previews.

-Islanders' alums watch their sons participate in camp.

-Darren Eliot notes that young stars are the straws that stir the drink in the Western Conference.

-NHL training camp notebook.

-Wickenheiser faces a setback in her goal to play men's hockey in Europe.

-Taking Note with some Odds and Ends.

-The Bubble Boys from Leafs' camp. I wonder if they know the Moops invaded Spain?

-Lafleur pats himself on the back, says Crosby reminds him of himself. Don't hurt your arm their Guy. I don't expect to see Sidney smoking in the concourse any time soon.

-A pre-game report for the Jackets-Blackhawks game.

-A quick note on Illegal Curve favorite, Antoine Vermette.

-Oilers get a new dressing room. 10,000 sq. ft? Wow.

-Manitoba Moose a major player in children's charities. RP and I did some work for the Yearling Foundation and their efforts are much appreciated in Winnipeg.

-Wes Goldstein sees parity in the Atlantic Division.

-Eastern media discovers thriving city in Western Canadian tundra. News at 11.

-Running game notes from last night's Oilers-Panthers game.

-Scores from the Minors and Junior.

-Notes from the Score.

-Notre Dame gets $15 million for a new hockey rink. They might as well stick to hockey, because not even Touchdown Jesus can save that football team.

-Sean Burke retires. He was a good one.

-Canadiens lose two prospects in last night's game. Kudos to Archer for answering the bell when Le Grand Georges came knocking.

-Sportsnet with a preview of three teams with the talent to make the Memorial Cup.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Note: My recent prospect features have been very heavy on Euro and American content. I feel that most Canadians get a pretty steady diet of information on the top Canadian juniors and prospects from our sports media. With that in mind, I am trying to go off the path a little to highlight some exceptional talents from around the world.

Both of these young Slovaks are named Juraj Mikus. (The left one is the older, former Canadiens prospect) They are about a year about in age and are/were prospects in the NHL. I had heard some buzz about Juraj Mikus the forward playing on a line with Ziggy Pallfy in the Slovakian league and thought he might be a good feature for Prospect Pulse. About 20 minutes into researching this post, I realized there was double the fun. Here goes:

Juraj Mikus the Elder, originally taken in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft by the Montreal Canadiens (4th Round, 121st overall), came over to play in North America last year and ended up with decent point totals despite a slow start. Despite the more than point a game clip, the Canadiens declined to sign him, citing too many forward prospects in their system. The right shooting forward had a strong draft year campaign, leading the Slovak team in scoring at the World Junior Championships. He is playing this year with Skalica of the Slovak Extraleague.

Taken in nearly the same spot (5th Round, 134th overall) by the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mikus the Younger is a talented offensive rearguard who put up very good numbers in the Slovak junior league. The 6'4, 185 defender posted a solid +32 rating, but needs to fill out his frame in order to advance to the next level. Expected to stay in Slovakia to develop, internet scouting reports on him are sketchy and/or unreliable because of the other Mikus. Even Hockey's Future has the wrong picture and stats up for him. He is expected to play this year with Dukla Trencin in the Slovak Junior League.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-Lightning forward Tim Taylor likely finished after hip surgery.

-Colby Cosh with a post linking pre-season success to regular season wins. (Hat tip, Mirtle)

-Pens and Sabres to play an outdoor game.

-The Leafs' Paul Maurice predicts the playoffs for the Leafs. They were pretty close last year, and with the steps backward taken by the Islanders, its certainly possible.

-Interesting notes on off-season training.

-Profile on Oilers prospect Chris Van de Velde. The Oilers hope he builds upon last years' strong second half.

-Sens' prospect Jim O'Brien has not changed his mind about the pro game.

-Cujo waiting for the phone to ring.

-Mike Comrie plays grab-ass with Hilary Duff. Maybe she is after the Brick fortune? Little Mikey should watch out, at only 19, she has been passed around by more than her share of emo rockers.

-Panthers ink Noah Welch.

-5 Rookies to watch at Leaf's camp.

-Killer named one of the assistant coaches for the Spengler Cup. Maybe there are some 14 year old babysitters in Switzerland.

-5 Players on the bubble at Leafs' camp.

-Arnott named Predators captain.

-An update on the Wickenheiser playing with men story.

-The Kings' Derek Armstrong is willing to play any role on the revamped roster.

-The Ducks' Bobby Ryan ready for a fresh start.

-Hints and tips on how to select a hockey stick. (Hat tip, Kukla)

-Hawks open camp today.

-Ducks-Kings Game Day Preview.

-A heated battle to back up Kipper.

-A couple of brief profiles of Caps' prospects.]

-Wes Goldstein with a preview of the Central and Northeast divisions.

-Lightning players look for ways to escape Camp Torturella.

-Lightning training camp lines.

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.

Prospect Pulse Part Deux

San Jose GM Doug Wilson went into the 2007 NHL Entry Draft with no first round picks, and managed to swing a couple of days so that he walked away with Logan Couture and Nick Petrecki as first rounders. McKeen's notes that the 6-3, 215 pound Petrecki went into the 2006-2007 season pegged as a potential top 5 pick, only to nearly slip out of the 1st Round with his erratic play for Omaha of the USHL.

A first round pick in the OHL draft, Petrecki opted for the USHL so he could play with the Boston College Eagles. Some scouts dismissed his choice and suggested that it cost him a top 5 selection in the draft, but the feeling is that Petrecki will still be an NHL calibre defenseman based on his agility, meanness and shot.

Possessing some offensive upside, Petrecki strives to be a solid 2-way performer. He plays a solid physical game and aims to hurt people with his checks. One of the knocks on his game is that he fails to notice players out of his field of vision in the defensive zone, and is extremely error prone when off his game. McKeen's Forecaster was especially wary of these shortcomings, while most other scouting services and reports keyed in on his positive attributes, namely his size, mobility (especially skating) and physical game. Petrecki is also said to possess a booming shot, having won the Hardest Shot competition at the USHL All-Star Game.

An in-depth Q and A can be found here.

Some Apres-Supper News:

-Brian Lawton has left his sports agency firm to pursue full time work in the NHL.

-World Junior and Calder Cup phenom Carey Price looks to crack the Habs lineup this fall. I saw him the AHL playoffs and he was nearly unbeatable.

-Bruins and Islander swap prospects.

-Ducks officially suspend Niedermayer. Zzzzzzz, wake me up when this is over.

-Ovechkin "not surprised" at the outcome of the not so Superseries. Ouch, the comrades aren't going to like this.

-Ted Leonis predicts the playoffs for the Caps.

-The Canucks Aaron Miller to have abdominal surgery.

-The Sabres change their game-plan.

-Oilers to unveil new jerseys at the Joey Moss Cup.

-An interesting interview with the Kings prospect Jack Johnson.

-Some news from the Caps' camp.

-Who's still looking for work.

-A Q and A with the Hansons. Fuckin' machine took my quarter.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Morning Musings: Is Niedermayer selfish?

Late yesterday afternoon, Scott Niedermayer informed the public that he has yet to make up his mind about whether he will return to the NHL for the 2007/08 season. Most hockey fans have been tossing in their two cents with regard to whether Niedermayer will return to the Ducks for the upcoming season or not. But before the four-time Stanley Cup winner decides one way or another, I think it is fair to ask whether Niedermayer is being selfish with his long drawn-out decision. For my money, the long-time New Jersey Devil is not holding his team hostage. After the Ducks defeated the Senators in the Cup final and Niedermayer subsequently announced he was taking time away from the game, the Ducks took necessary precaution by going out and signing arguably the most-talented defenseman on the open market (albeit an old talented defenseman) for the next two seasons. There is no doubt in my mind that Niedermayer informed Ducks' General Manager Brian Burke that he was leaning towards retirement and to prepare the team accordingly. Additionally, if Niedermayer leaves open the possibility of a return, as he did yesterday, some say he is holding the Ducks' salary cap situation hostage. But if that is the case, then for whom is he doing this? Who are the Ducks going to sign in the next little while that would upgrade their offense/defense even marginally? The answer is no one. The All-Star defenseman is taking this time to make the decision he feels is right for himself, and if anyone in the hockey world has earned the right to a protracted career decision, it is number 27.

On to the morning papers:

• Apparently not having Niedermayer or Selanne at camp isn't the Ducks only concern, explains Dan Wood of the Orange County Register.
• Perhaps the Sabres have learned from past miscalculations and it now appears they are willing to discuss extensions with soon-to-be unrestricted free agents says Tim Graham of the Buffalo News.
• There will be some healthy competition over who will be the backup to Miikka Kiprusoff. The Flames have few roster spots available but backup goaltender is one of them.
• As Steve Macfarlane documents, Eric Nystrom is champing at the bit waiting for training camp to get under way in Calgary.
• Mike Keenan is back in the NHL and would love nothing more than having some of the Flames' youngsters make his roster decisions more difficult. Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald has the story.
• The Hurricanes unveiled their "new" jerseys yesterday, and, once again, they look an awful lot similar to the "old" ones.
• The Avalanche signed fan-favorite Ian Lapperriere to a contract extension on Thursday that will take him through the 2008/09 season.
• The Blue Jackets are going to get an up close and personal look at their 2007 first round draft pick Jakub Voracek this training camp and, according to GM Scott Howson, the Jackets plan on letting Voracek compete for a roster spot.
• In some great news for fans, the Red Wings plan on bringing back some $9 seats this season.
• The Detroit Free Press has an interesting interview with Ken Holland, one of the best general managers in the business.
• With rookies already showing up at training camp, Kevin Lowe has let it be known there are roster spots up for grabs, writes the Edmonton Sun's Robert Tychkowski.
• While the Oilers do have many jobs that players will be fighting for at camp, of more concern to Kevin Lowe is the health of Fernando Pisani.
• Legendary hockey writer Red Fisher explains how Saku Koivu's comments were incorrectly interpreted in this morning's Montreal Gazette.
• Fisher's colleague at the Gazette, Pat Hickey opines that maybe the future is now for the Habs' Carey Price. For those of you who haven't seen Price play, the Canadiens have their goalie for the next 15 years once the youngster proves he is NHL ready.
• The New York Post's Mark Everson details the Rangers' plans to lift Brian Leetch's number 2 to the MSG rafters.
• According to John Dellapina of the New York Daily News, Rangers' Head Coach Tom Renney attempted to coax Leetch back to the Rangers, while he was sitting out last season, to run the Rangers' powerplay.
• Senators' top draft pick from this summer's draft Jim O'Brien won't be able to partake in the team's four-day rookie tournament says Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun.
• Apparently Ray Emery needs to do a better job of controlling his temper on the roads, never mind the ice.
• Without Vesa Toskala around, Evgeni Nabokov (remember when people used to call him John?) is the Sharks' number on netminder for the upcoming season writes David Pollak of the Mercury Times.
• Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star has the story of Justin Pogge and his maturation and progression while playing his first season in the AHL.
• Star Reporter Kevin McGran explains the tragedy that hit the Steen family 17 years ago and what the family is doing to help at-risk youth both in Toronto and Winnipeg.
• Expectations are high for Canucks' prospect Mason Raymond, and no one has higher standards than Raymond himself. Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province has the story.

Morning Musings: It's about time

On Wednesday afternoon, the Montreal Canadiens announced that they will be retiring the jersey numbers of both Bob Gainey and Larry Robinson during this upcoming season. After hearing this announcement, my first thought was, what took them so long? Both of these players have been out of the game for well over ten years now and both were easily voted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Now, I understand that Les Habitants have retired more jersey's than any other team in the league and, therefore, are very particular about whose jersey's they send up to the rafters; but these are two players who should have had their numbers raised to the rafters long ago.

On to the morning papers:

• With two open roster spots up for grabs at Calgary Flames' training camp, there are sure to be some intense battles between the organization's prospects writes the Calgary Herald's Scott Cruickshank.
• Hurricanes' star-forward Eric Staal tells Luke Decock of the Charlotte News & Observer that he never expected his arrest would garner this much attention. Does anyone else agree that this is simply much ado about nothing?
• Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune, details the maturation of the first overall pick from the 2007 Entry Draft, Patrick Kane. It looks like Kane spent the summer in the gym bulking up.
• Apparently David Vyborny's wife hasn't had enough of Columbus and was, in fact, the main reason why Vyborny has told the club he would like to sign a long term contract that would keep him in Columbus for the next few years.
• Coming off back-to-back 30 goal campaigns, Michael Ryder may cash in after the 2007/08 season writes Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette.
• John Glennon of the Tennessean brings to light the possibility that one of the Predators' young guns, such as Shea Weber, may receive an offer sheet next summer.
• According to Pierre Lebrun of the Canadian Press, the Senators are still hot after Peter Forsberg. However, Forsberg's agent Don Baizley says his client is no closer to making a decision on if he'll return to the NHL, and if so, which team he will suit up with.
• There is never a dull moment in the life of Ray Emery; Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen has the story.
• The Penguins are excited for their rookie tournament and with their young talent, who wouldn't be?
• Newest St. Louis Blues' winger Paul Kariya would like nothing more than to play well enough for his newest team to earn a spot representing his country in the 2010 Olympic Games.
• Tim Taylor of the Lightning may very well have played his last NHL game.
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun has an interesting piece on the questionable workings of the NHL-NHLPA substance abuse policy.
• Curtis Sanford of the Canucks says he isn't worried about the numbers of games he plays during this upcoming season, which is good because he won't be playing in many while backing up arguably the league's best goaltender in Roberto Luongo.