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

-Don Meehan sends "notices of libel" to Chris Chelios and a number of media outlets.

-Despite playing something like 3 games in the last 2 seasons, Peter Forsberg remains a hot topic in the NHL.

-Bryan Berard is out for 2 weeks with a groin injury.

-A little humor from Inside College Hockey regarding the poor ice conditions in Boston last weekend.

-Sean McCormick of Sportsnet suggests its ok to boo taxes, traffic cops and Timberlake, but not Ryan Smyth.

-Eric Duhatschek looks at the changing game of Jeremy Roenick.

-My francais is a little rusty (read: shitty) but I think the Coyotes have placed David Aebischer on le waivers.

-The Kingston Frontenacs have fired head coach Bruce Cassidy. No word on the Sundance Kid.

-Al Strachan feels that Atlanta should have turned the team over to Brad McCrimmon.

-The Kamloops Blazers and PA Raiders make a trade.

-The Blackhawks are back on tv, Nov. 11 vs the Red Wings.

-Fanhouse wonders who will be the next head coach of the Atlanta Thrashers.

-Check out this Rangers video.

-The NHL Notebook.

-John Paddock has no problem with the Volchenkov hit.

-Markus Naslund is frustrated with the offense in Vancouver.

-Danish prospect Oscar Moller is driving the Chiliwack Bruins to success.

-Bryan Little surprised himself by making the Atlanta Thrashers.

-A report on Drew Doughty from NHL.com.

-The Leafs have recalled Anton Stralman.

-George Kingston has returned to Norway to coach.

-Pierre Lebrun ranks the NHL teams.

-The NHL Network is targeting displaced hockey fans.

-An article about Ales Hemsky's inability to find the net thus far.

-Wes Goldstein with a note on the Blackhawks and CBS' Power Rankings.

-Roenick says he is focused on making a cup run with the Sharks.

-Damien Cox thinks Leaf fans should boo the owners, not the players.

-Chris Chelios now claims that he was misquoted.

-The Carolina Hurricanes have recalled Ryan Bayda.

-Mike Cammaleri and Daymond Langkow are tied for the early lead in powerplay goals.

-Adam Proteau's mailbox.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

News You Can Use Late in the Day

-John Buccigross with his thoughts on last week in the NHL.

-TSN is reporting that Jochen "What the" Hecht has signed a 4-year extension.

-The Ottawa Senators have signed the other Robitaille.

-Pierre Lebrun notes that Peter Chiarelli is sticking with his game plan in Boston.

-Hamilton Predators still taking deposits for seasons tickets.

-Inside College Hockey tracks the debuts of some players who didn't get the limelight in college.

-Al Strachan with a closer look at Paul Kelly.

-Eric Duhatschek feels that new NHLPA head will have a tough time getting the two sides together.

-The LA Times reports that the Ducks are looking for some forward depth. I bet Burke is on the phone with Lowe as we speak.

-George Gillett battling with the city of Montreal over a tax assessment.

-Damien Cox wonders if the Leafs will do the merciful thing and trade Bryan McCabe.

-The Detroit Free Press notes that the Wings and Kris Draper have opened negotiations.

-The Alberta Junior League hopes to build on the recent success of Junior A. I did not know that Mason Raymond was on an unpaid tryout with the Moose.

-Fanhouse with NHL Rookie Review #1.

-NHL Players back the recent suspensions.

-Vinny Lecavalier donates $3 million to a Tampa area children's hospital.

-A look at Tim Taylor's long road to recovery.

-Mike Keenan and Kristian Huselius are best buds.

-Mike Chen thinks that Chicago can make a comeback.

-Detroit and Grand Rapids are on the same philosophical page.

-Lindy Ruff wants to coach Team Canada in 2010.

-Power Rankings of Hockey Blogs.

-Matthew Lombardi's line can play it any way Keenan likes it.

-This just in, Luke Richardson still alive.

-The Toronto Star looks at health issues, post-hockey.

-Bill Lankoff says Bryan McCabe is doing his best to handle the boos.

-Despite the injuries, there is reason for optimism in Chicago.

-Another installment of the Bowman to Toronto rumor mill.

-A gameday report on the Kings from Battle of California.

-Stan Fischler sees Larry Robinson as the man behind the Devils right now.

-Bruins are hoping to create a buzz in Boston with their home opener.

-The Panthers have recalled Anthony Stewart.

-A report on Claude Giroux and a look around the CHL.

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

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: Ben Blood

In addition to having a very hockey name, Ben Blood also possesses a strong hockey acumen. A strong defensive prospect, this Senators prospect is currently playing in the USHL for the Des Moines Buccaneers. Drafted 120th overall in 2007, Blood will play the current season in Des Moines before moving on the University of North Dakota.

Strong on his skates and sound positionally, Blood is a calm presence on the blue line. As such, he is used extensively on specialty teams. Offensively, Blood has a cannon of a shot that he is able to unload quickly. He distributes the puck well and can be used as a shooter. In his own zone, Blood is able to clear the front of the net effectively and uses his strong positional play to angle off opponents. Though Blood could use his 6'3, 215 lb frame a little more, but this is a minor flaw in his game.

Scouts also note that while Blood lacks a little quickness and lateral movement, he more than makes up for it with his overall game. In watching him last weekend, I did not notice any deficiencies in the speed department. The game was very up tempo and he was right in the thick of it at all times. In addition to his hockey skill, Blood is said to be an excellent communicator and projects to be a future captain.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-The Blues have signed free agent Mike Johnson.

-Deliberations in the Rob Ramage trial have been delayed.

-Ron Francis has been named Assistant GM in Carolina.

-James Sheppard his waiting on immigration paperwork in St.Paul.

-Check out Craig MacTavish's comments about Brian Burke at TSN Broadband.

-The Sharks open the season on the road at Rexall Place in Edmonton.

-A preview of the CCHA, featuring national champion Michigan State.

-Jeff Gordon profiles 10 High Profile Free Agents in the NHL.

-Alan Ryder with some unsolicited advice for NHL coaches.

-86 Players in the NHL will make more than $4 million this year.

-Kristian Huselius feels he can have another stellar year offensively.

-Montreal's power-play moves along despite Sheldon Souray's absence.

-The Boston Globe highlights their three picks for who is most likely to be traded.

-Taking Note with a look at the WHL's Western Teams.

-Evan Grossman writes that there is no end in sight to the career of Niklas Lidstrom.

-DJ Gallo provides a crash course in the NHL for the uneducated.

-Victor Chi weighs in on the developing Oilers-Ducks feud.

-Sidney Crosby tells Reebok to fix the jerseys.

-Alan Muir of SI with 19 predictions.

-Brad Ziemer wonders how Alain Vigneault will improve upon last season.

-Martin Havlat learning to dive by playing soccer.

-Radulov to start the season on the 3rd line in Nashville. This should help draw fans.

-Sabremetrics comes to hockey.

-Tim Cronin notes that the Blackhawks can silence critics with a quick start.

-Dwayne Roloson says having a competent backup won't change his gameplan. Maybe not, but it could change his address. If the Oiler falter, look for Roloson to go to a contender at the deadline.

-Daniel Briere says he is ready to earn his keep in Philadelphia.

-Tom Gilbert knows he has to play consistently to stay in the NHL.

-Paul Maurice is keeping his goalie moves a secret.

-The Leafs assign Kronwall to the Marlies.

-Interesting article on Phil Esposito.

-Kevin Paul Dupont looks at the evolution of hockey coaches.

-Scotia Bank becomes the official Canadian bank of the NHL. I guess RBC couldn't afford it.

-A Rangers cheerleader files a sex harassment suit against MSG.

-An injury will keep Toews out of the lineup for the Hawks tonight.

-The Penguins name a trio of alternate captains.

-Is a goaltending controversy brewing in LA?

-Stephen Weiss and Bryan Allen get "A"'s in Florida.

-Three things that the Bruins can do to make the playoffs. This article ignores the fact that the Bruins need to be in the top 8 in the east, point-wise, to make the playoffs.

-Is the Lightning's window to win closing?

-Black Dog Hates Skunks is not impressed with recent Kevin Lowe quotes.

-A look at the top young guys from around the NHL.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior

Morning Musings

Due to the high volume of articles that appear in the Sunday papers I am not going to be posting any preambles on Sunday mornings.

On to the morning papers:

• Chuck Culpepper of the L.A. Times recounts the atmosphere in the O2 Arena in London yesterday for the Ducks/Kings contest. Meanwhile, Helene Elliot of the Times wonders if Jonathan Bernier is the answer to the long standing goaltending problem in Los Angeles.
• The Ducks' execution was poor and the team's inability to stay out of the penalty box was its downfall writes Dan Wood of the Orange County Register.
• Larry Brooks of the NY Post returns with his first Sunday hockey column in a while and is the first to give us the full details behind MSG's suit against the NHL.
• John Dellapina of the New York Daily News predicts who is on the rise and on the decline heading into the 2007/08 NHL season.
• The Islanders will be depending heavily on Bill Guerin and Mike Comrie this season writes Greg Logan of New York Newsday.
• Lou Lamoriello always admired Aaron Asham's playing style and jumped at the opportunity to add him to his team's roster this off-season; Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger has the story.
• According to Mark Everson of the NY Post, with the injury to Colin White's eye the Devils may be interested in signing UFA Danny Markov by using their salary cap injury exemption.
• The Predators were the better team on Saturday versus the Blue Jackets, however, Fredrik Norrena shut the door on their offensive attack and the Jackets prevailed 3-0.
• After last night's final exhibition contest versus Ottawa, Habs' coach Guy Carbonneau believes his team is ready to start the regular season. The Habs were defeated 5-4.
• The Wild made their final roster decisions on Saturday and Kent Youngblood of the Star Tribune has all the details.
• Rob Globke has made the Panthers' roster heading into the regular season. The 2002 draft pick edged out Anthony Stewart and Kamil Kreps for the final available forward spot on the Panthers.
• Oilers' Mathieu Roy was carried off on a stretcher during last night's exhibition contest versus the Canucks. The good news is that he is believed to be okay.
• The Detroit Free Press tells us five things we've learned about the Wings after training camp. Perhaps not everyone is a Wings fan, as Barry Melrose believes the team is now in the second-tier amongst its Western Conference counterparts.
• As Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News explains, defense is the identity of the Stars heading into 2007/08.
• Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch has an interesting piece on the affect Ken Hitchcock can have on an organization.
• After leaving Denver University for the Colorado Avalanche last season, Paul Stastny has no regrets.
• Nikolai Khabibulin says the goal for the Blackhawks is to make the playoffs and with all the off-season acquisitions and draft picks coming through the system, the former Stanley Cup champion should have far more support than last season.
• Save for Fran Kaberle, the Canes dressed what should be their opening night lineup for last night's exhibition finale versus Columbus.
• Mike Keenan doesn't know a thing about the newest Flames' acquisition Mark Smith writes Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald.
• Steve Macfarlane of the Calgary Sun has a player-by-player report card for last night's exhibition contest versus the Sharks.
• Kevin Paul Dupont's special Sunday piece examines Cam Neely's quest for front office success in Boston. (registration required)
• Look for forward Phil Kessel to take a big step forward this season writes Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald.
• Tim Connolly practically begged his way into the lineup for last night's preseason game for the Sabres because he hadn't seen any game action heading into the season.
• George Solomon of the Washington Post has a great piece on the loyalty Olaf Kolzig has demonstrated towards the only organization he's ever known.
• Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province wonders whether both Mason Raymond and Ryan Shannon can make the Canucks final roster.
• Paul Maurice has yet to announce the Leafs' starting goaltender for Wednesday's opener versus the Sens.
• Youngster David Perron has made a good impression at Blues' camp and is hoping to beat out Martin Kariya, Mike Johnson and Mike Glumac for the final available roster spot.
• Not surprisingly, goaltending remains a concern at Bolts' camp.
• The Sharks have been winning in preseason play but as coach Ron Wilson says about wins and losses in exhibition season, they are "totally irrelevant."
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has notes from in and around Pens' camp heading into the season.
• Tim Panaccio of the Philadelphia Inquirer examines the chances of the Capitals heading into the season.
• The Flyers ended the preseason on Saturday with a 3-2 loss to the Rangers.
• The Coyotes were defeated by the Avs in exhibition action on Saturday.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

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

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

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

Morning Musings: A busy Sunday

There are so many articles this morning that I am going to forego my usual preamble and just provide you with the day's articles.

On to the morning papers:

• Paul Maurice is on the hot seat writes Steve Simmons in this morning's Toronto Sun.
• Ducks' off-season acquisition Mathieu Schneider injured his ankle in Saturday night's exhibition game versus Los Angeles writes Dan Wood of the Orange County Register.
• Jason King of the Ducks has two goals in two exhibition games which should considerably help his efforts to crack the Ducks' roster as one of the team's depth forwards. (Writer's note: Having played for Randy Carlyle with the Manitoba Moose may give King a leg up)
• It appears Marian Hossa is in no rush to sign a contract extension with the Thrashers. Realistically, can you really blame him? He is coming up on UFA status right in the middle of his prime.
• It wouldn't be a Sunday morning without Kevin Paul Dupont's terrific article in the Boston Globe. This morning, Dupont discusses, among other things, the Bruins' upgrade in net as compared to a season ago.
• Former Memorial Cup MVP Milan Lucic is trying to make a good impression at Bruins' training camp.
• Manny Fernandez wants the starting goaltending job all to himself writes Stephen Harris in this morning's Boston Herald. (Writer's note: This news is a real shocker!)
• Stephen Harris also has a quick rundown of the highlights of yesterday's intra-squad scrimmage in Boston.
• Tim Graham details the possibility of veteran winger Jochen Hecht moving to the middle to center the Sabres' third line in this morning's Buffalo News.
• Without the firepower of a season ago, the Sabres are going to have to shift more of their focus on to the defensive side of the game.
• As Seth Macfarlane writes in this morning's Calgary Sun, Mike Keenan pulls no punches and his former Panthers players appreciated that quality.
• Kristian Huselius and Mike Keenan are looking to start anew in Calgary and put their Florida days behind them.
• Matthew Lombardi wants to improve his consistency and bring it every night like Flames' captain Jarome Iginla.
• Owen Nolan can contribute in many different aspects of the game writes Jean Lefebvre of the Calgary Herald. (Writer's note: I think I have read five Owen Nolan feature articles in the past week.)
• In contrast to the team's strong forward depth, Carolina has only seven NHL defenseman under contract. (Writer's note: Not only do they lack depth on defense but talent isn't exactly pouring out of their top six.)
• After being forced into early retirement because of a genetic disease, Steve Konowalchuk is adjusting to life as the player development coordinator for the Avs.
• Jiri Novotny can't suit up at Blue Jackets' training camp because he can't get a visa.
• Coming into their contract years, Adam Foote and Sergei Fedorov are looking to have rebound seasons; Aaron Portzline has the story in this morning's Columbus Dispatch.
• Dave Tippett loves the competition for the final spots on the Stars' roster writes Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News.
• Mike Babcock is impressed with a couple of Red Wings youngsters writes Helene St. James. While general manager Ken Holland has been very impressed with Tomas Kopecky thus far in camp.
• Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal takes issue with the actions of the Buffalo Sabres after Teppo Numminen failed his physical.
• Dennis Grebeshkov is looking to crack the crowded Oilers' defense writes Joanne Ireland.
• Joni Pitkanen shrugs off his minus rating from a year ago and is looking forward to starting anew with the Oilers. (Writer's note: The Flyers are going to regret trading Pitkanen when he wins a Norris Trophy in Edmonton.)
• Michael Russo profiles Brent Burns in this morning's Star Tribune.
• With all the attention on Carey Price and Cristobal Huet, Jaroslav Halak has yet to allow a goal in two days of scrimmages; Pat Hickey has the story in this morning's Montreal Gazette.
• They may have lost a number of offensive weapons but the Predators still have one of the best young defenses in the league.
• Kevin Weekes is excited to be able to give Martin Brodeur a rest whenever he needs it writes Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger. (Writer's note: Weekes' line after the season: 3 wins, 2 losses.)
• Darius Kasparaitis is in terrific shape heading into training camp this season for the Rangers. (Writer's note: Don't you just love stories about a player being in shape a year after they came to camp fat? Are we supposed to commend them?) (Extra writer's note: Best line I've read all morning, "He liked my haircut." -Kaspar in reference to Glen Sather.)
• Greg Logan of Newsday has the story of Rick DiPietro being the man for the Islanders coming into camp. (Writer's note: It still trips me out that I will be 37 when his contract expires.)
• Bruce Garrioch tells us John Paddock is already line-juggling early in camp.
• Erin Nicks explains the possible organizational repercussions, both positive and negative, of a breakout offensive season for the Sens' Mike Fisher.
• The Coyotes have some of the top prospects in all of hockey at training camp and he wants them to play as much as possible.
• Dany Sabourin is excited to be back in Pittsburgh and is looking forward to playing more than once a month.
• Marc Vlasic is looking for a new defensive partner with the departure of Scott Hannan to Colorado, but as Mark Emmons writes, Ron Wilson isn't the least bit worried about Vlasic.
• Local kid Mike McKenna is making quite the impression at the Blues' training camp writes Jeremy Rutherford.
• Andreas Karlsson is looking to rebound from a difficult 2006/07 campaign.
• Tarik El-Bashin documents the many allergies that Tom Poti has to deal with in this morning's Washington Post.
• Bryan Muir thinks he is fortunate to just be at an NHL training camp writes Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star. (Writer's note: How many more Bryan Muir stories do I have to read?)
• As Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun points out, the Leafs are sure to get a win tonight in the Blue/White matchup.
• Is Jason Blake the missing link? (Writer's note: Over/under 45 more stories on Jason Blake possibly playing with Mats Sundin)
• Ryan Shannon is not taking anything for granted at Canucks' training camp.
• Don't expect Todd Bertuzzi to return to Vancouver this Monday.