News You Can Use Late in the Day

-James Mirtle with a good story on the USHL.
-INCH updates its Hobey Baker contenders.
-Jason Spezza looks to make a return to the top line.
-News and Notes from the CHL.
-Eric Duhatschek wonders what is going on in Dallas.
-Blake Kessel answers fan's questions at ushl.com
-Salavat Yuleav is making waves in the Russian Super League this season.
-Potential Predators investors cancel a news conference that was to discuss the future of the team.
-The Oilers will attempt to shut down the Sedins in tonight's game against the Canucks.
-Mats Sundin takes his job as Leafs' captain seriously.
-The Red Wings plane gets stuck in the mud in St. Louis. You don't really here about that too often.
-Denis Savard says Patrick Kane is the Hawks best player.
-Former Regina Pat Garth Murray has been claimed by the Florida Panthers.
-The weekly release from the USHL.
-Sam Mitchell thinks the recent Leaf controversies would receive more press if there were basketball players involved.
-The Dallas Stars have named Jeff Cogen their new president.
-The Senators have re-assigned Nick Foligno to Binghamton.
-A new book looks at hockey's greatest arguments.
-Video of the brawl between the USA U-17 team and their Russkie counterparts.
-Wes Walz is still MIA from the Wild.
-Casey Pierro-Zabotel has left the BCHL for the Vancouver Giants.
-Marty York reports that Dion Phaneuf and Alex Ovechkin have each received contract extension offers.
-Mike Brophy offers some advice for Brett Hull.
-All 11 Blackhawk fans are upset at the possibility of the Organist being let go. I am sure there is a joke in there somewhere.
-The Fanhouse Roundtable wonders if the old NHL has returned.
-The Hockey News Insider with thoughts on Eric Lindros.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-Bobby Clarke feels Eric Lindros is a Hall of Famer. Thoughts?
-John Leclair: Canadien, Flyer, Penguin, Drunk Driver.
-The Canadian women win their first game at the Four Nations Cup, defeating Finland 4-1.
-Team USA wins a wild one over Belarus at the World Junior Challenge in Trail, BC.
-North Dakota recruit Ben Blood blogs on his experience at said World Junior Challenge.
-Mike Modano passes Phil Housley to be the highest scoring American NHL'er.
-The Sabres are looking to Ryan Miller to lead them out their funk.
-Ilya Kovalchuk tops the Hot List.
-The Junior Report from the NHL, which focuses on the USHL heavy US entry in the World Junior Challenge.
-A profile on UND Head Coach, Dave Hakstol.
-The Kamloops Blazers have fired head coach Dean Clark.
-A look around the QMJHL.
-Jeff Taffe is enjoying a resurgence in the AHL.
-You want ECHL news? You got it.
-Chris Higgins feels he has 40-goal potential.
-Elliot Pap looks at what ails the Canucks.
-Darcy Tucker feels he has the answer to the Leafs' defensive woes.
-Tortorella calls today's NHL players soft.
-The Kings play Amazing Race in Los Angeles.
-The Western Conference Report from the AHL.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

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

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

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-Tampa Bay called up former UND defender Matt Smaby.
-Rick Tocchet will meet with Gary Bettman this week.
-A look at Sportsnet's Goals of the Week.
-Who's Hot and Who's Not in the CHL.
-INCH looks at the benefits of a 2-referee system.
-The Bruins and Devils take big dives in this week's Power Rankings.
-The Canadiens call for a rule change in the wake of Boullion's injury.
-Simon Gagne is still hampered by concussion-like symptoms.
-Robbie Ftorek takes over as the head coach of the Erie Otters. No word on the status of his awesome sweaters.
-Hockey Rants examines what ails the Ducks.
-The WHL Power Rankings courtesy of Taking Note.
-Ted Montgomery of USA Today profiles his 10 Most Overrated Players in the NHL.
-A Q and A with Chris Vande Velde.
-Fanhouse notes that there are problems brewing in Vancouver.
-A profile on Islanders prospect Jason Gregoire.
-Anaheim GM Brian Burke is a proponent of the bear hug.
-A look at top-rated WHL prospect Zach Boychuk.
-Claude Julien wants to change attitudes on the Bruins and make them tough to play against.
-The Omaha Lancers are dominating the USHL.
-Jeff Gordon sees the Brad Boyes deal as one of the keys to the resurgence of the Blues.
-A story about the travels of a Thrashers' fan.
-Sidney Crosby returns to Minnesota.
-Pierre Lebrun with a look at back at October in the NHL.
-Mason Raymond has been sent back to Manitoba.
-The Score notes that Jonathan Toews has a 9-game point scoring streak to start his NHL career.
-A rumor roundup from the Hockey News.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-Mario Lemieux is about to receive a $21 million dollar paycheque.

-The Atlanta Thrashers have added Kari Lehtonen to the injured list.

-A profile on Mitch Wahl of the Spokane Chiefs.

-A look at the refereeing in NCAA hockey.

-Eric Duhatschek looks at how booing affects performance.

-Pierre Lebrun notes that Brad Boyes is off to a hot start in St. Louis.

-Fluto Shinzawa takes a look at Milan Lucic.

-Alan Ryder breaks down Bryan McCabe's performance.

-Alan Maki wonders how successful the Rocket would be in today's NHL.

-Mikka Kiprusoff wants to remain in Calgary, but wants top dollar.

-A story on Martin Biron and his mask.

-Des Moines is a special teams powerhouse.

-Denis Gauthier is patiently waiting for a chance to return to the NHL.

-A look at some slow starters around the NHL.

-James vanRiemsdyk starts his collegiate career in New Hampshire.

-Lyon Messier has made his way to the OHL, where he is skating with the Erie Otters.

-The Detroit Free Press examines the possibility of Igor Grigorenko going back to Russia.

-Cory Murphy finally gets to play hockey in his home town.

-Fanhouse takes a look at Marc-Andre Fleury and Chris Campoli.

-Alan Muir of SI with a look at what junior aged players will stick.

-A feature on Columbus prospect Will Weber.

-Gary Bettman goes on the IR.

-The AHL suspends Dale Purinton for 25 games.

-A report on the widening gap between rich and poor in the NHL.

-The Canucks have recalled Mason Raymond.

-Daymond Langkow sets a record in Calgary.

-The US selects its Women's team for the 4 Nations Cup.

-Joanne Ireland with a look at the Oilers.

-Roman Voloshenko tells the Wild he wants to return to Russia.

-The Flyers have recalled Stefan Ruzicka.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-Alexei Kovalev blames the Montreal media for making a mountain out of a molehill.

-In a follow up story, Bob McKenzie says to go easy on Carbonneau.

-The Manitoba Moose won both their games this week after a shaky weekend.

-The Rangers have recalled Nigel Dawes from Hartford.

-In shoulder news, Martin Havlat does not need to have surgery, but Sheldon Souray is out indefinitely.

-Avs prospect and Gopher forward Ryan Stoa is out for the season with a knee injury.

-The Leafs have demoted Kris Newbury.

-Rob Picarello with NHL Power Rankings.

-William Houston disagrees with Dave Keon's selection as greatest Leaf.

-Randy Robitaille cleared waivers for the Sens and is skating with Patrick Eaves and Mike Fisher in practice.

-Martin St. Louis is leading the NHL in ice time amongst forwards.

-Alex Ponikarovsky is back in the Leafs' lineup.

-Pierre Lebrun thinks Pat Quinn might get a shot in Atlanta.

-Caps prospect Josh Godfrey is off to a hot start in the OHL.

-Potential first rounder Colton Teubert gets a 2 game suspension for his hit on a Moose Jaw Warrior.

-Fanhouse says the Blues are back.

-A funny video about the Sabres at Sportsnet.

-Michael Farber of SI discusses the Luongo trade.

-Terry Frei wonders about records in the modern era.

-David Amber with ten top milestones in hockey and the likelihood that they will be broken.

-Rocket Richard was the first to 500 goals 50 years ago.

-Jim Matheson with a look at the first three weeks of the NHL season.

-The Wednesday roundup from the WHL.

-Which is the better conference in the NHL?

-Danish prospect Oscar Moller scores his first hat trick.

-Bruce Dowbiggin feels Paul Kelly must change the attitude of the players.

-Kiprusoff is not happy with his start.

-Mason Raymond has been sent down to Manitoba.

-Chris Chelios sets his sites on Don Meehan.

-Mike Brophy thinks both Niedermayer and Selanne will be back for Anaheim.

-Ryan Dixon looks at goalie tendencies.

-After a strong season last year, Petteri Nummelin is now fighting for a job in Minnesota.

-Dennis Grebeshkov will draw in for Sheldon Souray.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

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

Prospect Pulse:Teddy Purcell

Teddy Purcell, a Newfoundlander, a graduate of SJHL's Notre Dame Hounds as well as the USHL's Cedar Rapids Roughriders, is a LA Kings prospect who figures to start the season in Manchester of the AHL. A lanky, playmaking center, Purcell put up 43 points in 40 games with the Maine Black Bears as a freshman.

At 6'2, 175 pounds, Purcell still needs to add some muscle to his frame to adapt to the pro game. Last season, he showed a willingness to improve his all around game and made great strides with his shot and acceleration. He has stated that he wants to increase his size and strength so that he can continue to develop at the pro level.

An undrafted player, Purcell so impressed the Kings with his talent that they persuaded him to leave college after only one year. Purcell was pursued by about a dozen NHL teams, but chose Los Angeles because he grew up idolizing Luc Robitaille. The Kings feel he possesses Top-6 talent and can contribute offensively after some seasoning in the minors. A solid contributor at every level he has played at, Purcell will be thrust into a scoring role in the American League this season.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-The Islanders signed defenseman Radek Martinek to a three-year extension today.

-The Flyers are optimistic after an opening night win.

-Burnside and Cox discuss the Devils playoff hopes in Friday Face-off.

-Teppo Numminen has returned to Buffalo to rehab.

-Ryan Shannon excited to start life as a Canuck.

-A look at the WCHA.

-Don Cherry disagrees with Burke, does not envision the Oilers in the sewer.

-Jose Theodore to make a rehab start in the American League tonight.

-The Sioux Falls Stampede welcomes a local product to the team.

-A preview of the Philadelphia Phantoms.

-Cape Breton Screaming Eagles' coach gets a two-game suspension for jumping on the ice.

-Hockey's Future previews the QMJHL.

-A look at the Sabres' AHL prospects.

-Rocky Wirtz is now in control of the Blackhawks.

-In the bottom story of the day, no news from Scott Niedermayer.

-Prospects to watch in the WHL.

-Alain Vigneault says he will spare no feelings in Vancouver.

-Fanhouse wonders if the Roberto Luongo deal is the worst trade in hockey.

-Shea Weber out with a dislocated kneecap.

-Leafs are looking to knock off the Habs for their first win.

-The Oilers will apparently bring up Brian Burke's outburst to Gary Bettman. I say let it go. The NHL needs some press in the US right now.

-Speaking of Bettman, he promises to make the NHL All-Star Game interactive. Good deal, I would like to play Left Wing please.

-An Interview with Sean Simpson.

-A story about Torrey Mitchell's road to the NHL.

-Interesting story about a trainer taking every precaution to prevent player deaths.

-Varsity hockey returns to Carleton University.

-Dan Barnes surmises that JF Jacques may be on the trading block. How are they going to replace his 3 minutes a night?

-The daily roundup from the Score. Note that Mike Peca doesn't figure to dress for the Blue Jackets.

-Some predictions from Hockey Rants.

-The Bruins focusing on special teams going into the season.

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

Due to an extremely busy weekend, there will be no prospect featured til Monday. Please keep yourself busy reading the news from this afternoon.

News You Can Use on Saturday Afternoon:

-Bruce Garrioch notes that Heatley and Spezza will be split up for tonight's game in Montreal. Coach Paddock just noted on Sportscentre that they will play together 95% of the time, but they are not inseparable.

-Capitals' owner Ted Leonsis is a man with many stories to tell.

-Taking Note gives us word that American phenom Luke Moffat has decided to forego the WHL to play for the University of Michigan.

-Cory Emmerton and Logan Pyett feel their time with Coach Sutter will improve their chances of playing in the NHL.

-Bill Lankhof discusses Scott Clemmensen's decision to sigh with the Maple Leafs.

-Potential 2009 1st Overall pick John Tavares continues to tear up the OHL.

-Dallas Drake happy to be in Motown. Love the Drake. Also note Larry Wigge's mention of the success the Red Wings have had with the 1989 draft class.

-The Hockey News with a look at who will make the playoffs in the East.

-Special thanks to Amanda Kosior for pointing out that Mike Comrie bought Hilary Duff a Mercedes. Please note that Mercedes' are not available at the Brick, Canada's version of Sears.

-Willy Palov of the Halifax Chronicle-Herald looks at the 10 Best players ever in the QMJHL.

-A Q and A with Panthers' prospect Michael Frolik.

-The Empty Netters blog with a recap of Penguins news.

-Big Bad Bruins set to return.

-Not all the New York Rangers are in favour of the new Edge jerseys.

-The Score notes that Thrasher's rookie Bryan Little is getting a long look at Centre. Also note that the Forecaster predicts teenager Peter Mueller will be the Coyotes' #1 Centre.

-An interview with Dan Wood from the Orange County Register, a very good paper for hockey news in Southern California. Also note the review of the various NHL preview magazines.

-Penguins send Ty Conklin down. Could this be the end for Conks?

-Brian Burke as interviewed by the BBC. A whole new country full of journalists for Burke to hate.

-A little off topic, but a funny story all the same.

-Teams that may surprise in this year's CHL season.

-The LA Times feels Jonathan Bernier may have played his way into a full time job with the Kings.

-The Lightning defensemen want to play a more physical brand of hockey this year.

-The Offside Blog thinks the new Edge jerseys are just for looks.

-Ryan Kesler thinks he can create chemistry with roommate Mason Raymond.

-Notes from all 6 Canadian teams.

-Dallas Stars' prospect Matt Nisaken makes the most of his time at camp.

-Are the Stars' prospects ready to make the leap to the NHL?

-Rob Schremp happy to be out of the spotlight in Edmonton.

-The Florida Panthers look to attract kids and businessmen with a noon start during the week. I am pretty sure I would ditch work for a game. If Florida wants to stick around, they are going to need to be innovative.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Prospect Pulse

Canucks prospect Mason Raymond is one of the few features in Prospect Pulse whom I have seen play. I spent my Friday's in the press box at MTS Centre last winter, and was pleasantly surprised when Raymond showed up following the culmination of his college career. A speedy forward, Raymond was a departure from the typical workman-like forwards that the Moose employed. Possessing good speed and excellent lateral movement, Raymond stood out in that he could make something out of nothing and provided some dipsy doodle in an otherwise bland Moose attack.

Despite having seen him play a couple times with Minnesota-Duluth, I had previously not noticed Raymond (perhaps due to the penchant for UND student fans to stand the whole damn game). In reading scouting reports, Raymond is said to have packed on 25 pound of muscle during his brief college career and may be one of those unheralded players who suddenly emerge from the NCAA as a legitimate NHL player.

Raymond put up excellent numbers in the NCAA, averaging nearly a point per game over his two year career for the offensively challenged Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs. A second round pick by the Vancouver Canucks in 2005, Raymond is noted for having astute offensive awareness coupled with a strong work ethic and a motor that never stops running. Scouts noted that after he bulked up, he added a physical edge to his already confident game, and is now capable of dishing out punishing checks in addition to his offensive repertoire.

Able to be used in all situations, Raymond projects to be a solid 2nd line forward in the NHL. Currently listed 6th amongst Canuck prospects, don't discount the possibility of Raymond seeing increasing amounts of ice in the NHL. The 21 year old recently had tongues wagging with his impressive skill set. Luckily for Raymond, his skill set meshes nicely with what the Canucks need. Look for him to be wearing those garish Vancouver uniforms to start the season.

News You Can Use in the Late Morning:

-XM Radio reports Wings great Gordie Howe is embroiled in a dispute with neighbours over the Howe's using their residence as a business. His neighbours were allegedly video-taping the house, though a judge has issued a temporary injunction against that practice. Link to the story is here. Note to the neighbours: Even though Howe is a nearly 80 year-0ld retiree, I am pretty sure he could still put you down with an elbow.

-A re-cap of the Panthers' rookie camp.

-Pisani's prognosis not promising.

-Oilers hire a team psychologist to give them a mental edge. Lets hope he is also a top 6 forward.

-Kevin Lowe believes the Oilers may surprise people.

-Former prospect Jared Aulin now with the Calgary Dinos.

-Pronger looks to regain his fire for this year. I am sure almost any Oiler fan would help set Chris on fire.

-Hawks prospect Ryan Stokes hospitalized after a skate to the face.

-As reported to me by RP last night, the Globe and Mail notes Jarome Iginla is just entering his prime.

-A Columbus Blue Jackets preview.

-The Wild's Benoit Pouliot looks to have a better season. Note that Assistant GM Tom Lynn contacted Alexei Yashin, who asked the Wild for $4 million/per.

-Wild cut former Golden Gopher Danny Irmen.

-Ranger's Strudwick valued for his off-ice contributions.

-The Wild are eager to see massive prospect Andre Lakos in action.

-A Philadelphia Flyers preview over at Fanhouse.

-A Capitals update with news on Tomas Fleischmann and his quest for a roster spot.

-The Sporting News wonders what is going on in Phoenix.

-Gretzky has hope for the Coyotes.

-Who looks to make a play for the WHL title.

-CHL rankings.

-The Devils' Brodeur still has fun playing hockey.

-Time to do or die for Leafs' prospects.

-Alain Vigneault drawing praise in Vancouver.

-The Lightning are happy with Filip Kuba, but want a better defensive game.

-Note the excerpts from the blog written by Senators prospect Alex Nikluin.

-Wes Goldstein with a look at the Sabres.

-Craig Anderson raising his stock with the Panthers.

-The Oilers are ready for an infusion of youth.

-Canucks prospect Michael Grabner impresses against the Flames.

-Bruins defenders prepared to turn the B's around.

-The Hockey News looks at the Pacific Division.

-Tyler Kennedy impressing at Penguins' camp.

-Penguins sign lease for their new arena.

-Skating coach tries to improves Coyotes' fortunes.

-Gerard Gallant looks to spice up the Islanders' power-play.

-The Score notes a crowded crease in LA.

-Taking Note details WHL stars who have returned from NHL camps.

-The Canucks give Dan McGillis a try out.

-Player movement in the QMJHL.

-Some dark-horse predictions for the CHL.

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

Maple Leafs rumored to open '08-09 season in Europe

In the news on Sunday

The Maple Leafs are one of the teams to be rumored to open the season next year in Europe. With the globalization of sports, this has become quite the trend in recent years. The Kings/Ducks open their season in Europe, pending on the success of that event, we could see even more of these overseas games to come.

One of my favourite blogs, the Uniwatch blog, gives their review of some recently released jerseys and shares my opinion in that the new jerseys look like crap.

TSN reports that Michael Ryder may be looking to move away from his home in Newfoundland as his car and house have been vandalized. He is an unrestricted free agent next summer, with a good season he may be able to cash in and buy that new home he is seeking.

Sportsnet lets us know all the line configurations and cuts that all the Canadian teams performed during Sundays training camps.
I would like to note that John Paddock has juggled the Sens lines and gone with
Niko Dimitrakos - Jason Spezza - Dany Heatley
Antoine Vermette - Nick Foligno -Daniel Alfredsson
Patrick Eaves - Chris Kelly - Shean Donovan
The only question is how long will they stick with these until they don't work and are forced to revert back to the "cash line" (who gave it that awful nickname?) of Spezza, Heatley, Alfredssson.

The Vancouver Canucks were hit with the injury bug on Sunday, Trevor Linden went down with a groin, Sami Salo will have X-Rays tomorrow for a broken wrist and Roberto Luongo took a shot in the throat from Brad Isbister. Everyone will be re-evaluated on Monday.

See you in the morning

-remis

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.