LIVE BLOG- ROUND 1 OF THE 2008 NHL ENTRY DRAFT

9:55 p.m.- The first round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft is over. And it only took 3 hours and 55 minutes. Good night everyone.
9:52 p.m.- Detroit Red Wings vice-president Steve Yzerman announces that the Detroit Red Wings select American goalie Thomas McCollum (Sanborn, New York), who played for the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League in 2007'08.
Writer's Note: Everyone expected Detroit to take a goaltender but it is a minor shock that they didn't take highly-ranked Swedish goalie Jacob Markstrom. I wouldn't dare question the Detroit Red Wings scouting staff who are responsible for some great Draft gems like Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsyuk and Johan Franzen. McCollum will probably win the Stanley Cup in 2014.
9:49 p.m.- The Atlanta Thrashers select Daultan Leveille from St.Catharines of the Ontario Junior B League, a speedy center who will play for Michigan State next season.
9:44 p.m.- TSN breaks to a commercial playing Sum 41. Two picks left in the First Round.
9:42 p.m.- The Phoenix Coyotes select Viktor Tikhonov, a Russian-American who played for Cherepovets of the Russian Super League last season.
Writer's Note: He is the son of legendary Russian Coach Viktor Tikhonov so he obviously comes from a great hockey family. The Coyotes already had his name on a hockey jersey so they must be high on Tikhonov. He sure looks like a hockey player.
9:39 p.m. The Anaheim Ducks trade the 28th overall pick to the Phoenix Coyotes for their 35th and 39th overall picks.
Writer's Note: 12 trades now.
9:36 p.m.- The Washington Capitals select defenseman John Carlson from Indiana of the United States Hockey League. TSN's Draft Panel, who must be exhausted at this point, inform us that Carlson will play for the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League next season.
Writer's Note: A long term project for the Capitals but Carlson is projected as a future power play quarterback who can also dish out the physical stuff.
9:34 p.m.- **** Gary Bettman announces a mind-boggling 11th trade of the night. The Philadelphia Flyers trade the 27th pick to the Washington Capitals for defenseman Steve Eminger and the 84th pick.
9:28 p.m.- With the 26th overall pick, the Buffalo Sabres select forward Tyler Ennis from the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League.
Writer's Note: As Pierre McGuire notes, the Sabres take another Tyler in the first round. Myers had 43 goals and 91 points for Medicine Hat during the 2007'08 season. Some scouts compared him to Jordan Eberle, drafted earlier by the Edmonton Oilers, although he may not be as o
9:22 p.m. Director of Scouting Todd Button announces that the Calgary Flames select Greg Nemisz from the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League with the 25th pick.
Writer's Note: This was originally Montreal's pick. Nemisz is a rangy power forward who can score while knocking your teeth out. Although Nemisz is from Courtice, Ontario, he just became an honorary Albertan. Nemisz looks comfortable sitting beside Flames GM Darryl Sutter at the TSN interview table with James Duthie. It appears that the Flames got their guy.
9:15 p.m.- Devils CEO/General Manager Lou Lamoriello and Head Scout David Conte announce that the Devils take Swedish left winger Mattias Tedenby with the 24th overall pick. Writer's Note: This may be a steal for the New Jersey Devils because Tedenby was ranked 16th overall by The Hockey News and 14th by International Scouting Services. From all accounts, Tedenby is a dynamic player who has many weapons in his offensive arsenal.
9:10 p.m.- The Minnesota Wild use the 23rd overall pick to select defenseman Tyler Cuma from the Ottawa 67's of the Ontario Hockey League.
Writer's Note: From what I've heard about Tyler Cuma, he is a proven leader who is liked by all of his teammates. Great pick for the Wild because Cuma is a two-way player who has room to improve.
9:06 p.m. Commissioner Bettman announces that the New Jersey Devils have completed another trade. The Devils send the 23rd overall pick to the Minnesota Wild for the 24th pick and a 2009 3rd Round pick.
9:00 p..m.- Edmonton Oilers are at the podium with the 22nd overall pick. Edmonton selects Jordan Eberle, a center who played for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League last season.
Writer's Note: A solid pick for Edmonton. Eberle put up some nice numbers for Regina (WHL) this past season with 42 goals and 32 assists. Eberle may be slightly undersized at 5'10'' but he is a warrior who plays heads-up hockey.
8:54 p.m.- With the 21st overall pick, the Washington Capitals take Anton Gustafsson, a center from V. Frolunda of the Swedish Jr.League.
Writer's Note: It was widely speculated that a few teams were high on Gustafsson because of his play in the Swedish Jr. League and Washington is obviously starting to become a Detroit East as they already boast Super Swede Nicklas Backstrom (2006 4th overall pick).
8:52 p.m.- Commissioner Bettman announces that the New Jersey Devils trade the 21st overall pick to the Washington Capitals for the 23th overall pick and the 54th overall pick.
8:50 p.m.- There is a buzz at the NHL Central Registry desk as the New Jersey Devils may have a trade in the works.
8:47 p.m.- New York Rangers Director of Player Personnel Gordie Clark announces that the team selects Oshawa Generals defenseman Michael Del Zotto with the 20th overall pick.
Writer's Note: For the second year in row, the Rangers get a player who drops down in the draft rankings. In 2007, New York got Alexei Cherapanov with the 17th overall pick and now they get Del Zotto at #20.
8:40 p.m.- Philadelphia Flyers General Manager Paul Holmgren takes Swiss defenseman Lucas Sbisa with the 19th overall pick. Sbisa had 33 points for the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League this past season.
Writer's Note: You can compare Sbisa to Mark Streit as much as you like but what's important here is that Philadelphia passed up Oshawa Generals defenseman Michael Del Zotto to draft him. And Del Zotto is the highest ranked player left (#17 by International Scouting Services)
8:35 p.m.- The Nashville Predators take goaltender Chet Pickard with the 18th overall pick. Pickard had 46 wins for the Tri-City Americans of the Western Hockey League this past season.
Writer's Note: Pickard is a big game goalie who was voted as the CHL's Top Goaltender for the 2007'08 season. Pickard has good size for the goaltender position and is not afraid to play the puck.
8:27 p.m.- With the 17th overall pick, the Anaheim Ducks take Minnetonka High School defenseman Jake Gardiner ( a finalist for Mr. Hockey, the best player in the state of Minneapolis).
Writer's Note: This pick is a little off-the-board as well as Gardiner was ranked 26th overall by International Scouting Services. Gardiner had 48 points in 28 games in the USHS during the 2007'08 season and has a huge upside.
8:21 p.m. The Boston Bruins select Joe Colborne from Camrose of the Alberta Junior A Hockey League with the 16th overall pick.
Writer's Note: The Bruins opt to take Colborne over some better known Canadian Major Junior players here. They obviously like his size and potential. He had 90 points in 55 games for Camrose in 2007'08. TSN explains that Colborne will play for the University of Denver next year and is several years away from playing in the NHL. They also mention that Colborne's dad is a wealthy Oil executive. Should I add him on Facebook too?
8:14 p.m.- Ottawa selects Erik Karlsson, a defenseman from Frolunda Jr of the Swedish Jr. League.
Writer's Note: Well, the Senators did take a Swede which explains why Alfredsson was asked to make the pick. This pick was a little off-the-radar as I can't find any information on Karlsson. I am flipping through my THN Draft Preview guide and can't find Karlsson. TSN just said that Karlsson is a long-term project for Ottawa. Karlsson was also voted best defenseman at the World Under-18 Championships for Sweden.
8:14 p.m.- Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson will make Ottawa's selection, the 15th overall pick.
Writer's Note: This is a little different. I like it.
8:10 p.m.- Gary Bettman is at the podium with another trade announcement. The Nashville Predators have traded the 15th overall pick to the Ottawa Senators for the 18th overall pick and a 2009 3rd rounder.
Writer's Note: Will Ottawa select a goaltender here? I predicted that Ottawa would take Jacob Markstrom with the 18th overall pick of the Illegal Curve Mock Draft.
8:04 p.m. Director of Player Development Ron Francis announces that the Carolina Hurricanes select, with the 14th overall pick, Zach Boychuk of the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League.
Writer's Note: I saw Boychuk play for Team Canada at the 2008 Super Series in Winnipeg and I was impressed with his play. Boychuk brings energy, grit and speed to the rink and is a great player for Peter Laviolette's Hurricanes.
7:59 p.m.- The Los Angeles Kings have their second pick of the first round (13th overall). TSN's Pierre McGuire seems to think that Colton Teubert will be selected here. McGuire is right as the Kings take Regina Pats defenseman Colton Teubert, a big defenseman who loves the physical side of the game.
Writer's Note: The Kings are going to be absolutely sick on defense in a few years. And the draft is finally starting to move a little faster. We're going to be here for another two hours if we continue like this. I'm already missing WWE Friday Night Smackdown!
7:55 p.m. The Sabres select Tyler Myers, a 6'7'' defenseman from the Kelowna Rockets of the Western Hockey League.
Writer's Note: A gutsy pick by the Buffalo Sabres. Myers only scored 19 points during the 2007'08 season but they believe there is room to grow here (figuratively, of course).
7:54 p.m. Bettman announces that the Los Angeles Kings trade the 12th overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres for the 13th overall pick and a 2009 3rd Round pick.
Writer's Note: Buffalo is trading up here because they have their eye on a defenseman.
7:52 p.m. It appears we have another trade. We may have our eighth trade tonight.
7:46 p.m. Chicago Blackhawks select Kyle Beach of the Everett Silvertips (WHL) with the 11th overall pick.
Writer's Note: Beach plays with an edge and has been criticized for being a bit of a head case. Team Canada may not have wanted him, but the big bad Hawks seem to be gung-ho on Beach. By the way, it is now 7:50 p.m. C.S.T, which means I have been blogging for 110 minutes and we are only at the 12th overall pick. Yikes!
7:38 p.m.- Steve Tambellini announces that the Vancouver Canucks take forward Cody Hodgson, a talented player who had 40 goals in 65 games for the Brampton Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League this past season.
Writer's Note: Awesome pick for the Canucks. Hodgson is a crafty player with a great shot who is constantly using his head on the ice. The Canucks could use a lot of help up front and Hodgson should be NHL-ready within two years.
7:34 p.m.- The Vancouver Canucks are up next with the 10th overall pick.
Writer's Note: I suspect that the Canucks will select a forward here.
7:31 p.m.- New York Islanders GM Garth Snow selects Josh Bailey of the Windsor Spitfires with the 9th overall pick.
Writer's Note: Bailey had 96 points for Windsor in 2007'08 (including 67 assists) so he is clearly familiar with the back of the net. He may not be as flashy as Stamkos or Filatov, but he has great on-ice vision and patience.
7:25 p.m.- Phoenix Coyotes Managing Partner, Alt. Governor and Head Coach Wayne Gretzky steps up the podium to a standing ovation. Gretzky announces the Phoenix pick: Mikkel Boedker, a left winger from the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League. Boedker becomes the highest drafted Danish-born player of all time.
Writer's Note: A nice pick for Phoenix here. The Coyotes have been rebuilding for a while now and have a load of young talent in their system (Hanzal, Mueller,Turris). Boedker gives them another fast, skilled forward who had an impressive Memorial Cup with the Kitchener Rangers.
7:21 p.m.- Nashville Predators GM David Poile lets Assistant GM Paul Fenton announce that the Preds select forward Colin Wilson, from Boston University of Hockey East of the NCAA Hockey League.
Writer's Note: A real Winnipeg connection here. Paul Fenton used to play for the Winnipeg Jets and Colin Wilson's dad is Carey Wilson, who hails from the River City. This is a great pick for the Predators who clearly wanted an offensive-minded forward. Wilson scored at a point-a-game clip for Boston University and oozes confidence with the puck.
7:17 p.m.- Commissioner Bettman announces a trade. The New York Islanders trade the 7th overall pick to the Nashville Predators for the 9th overall pick and 40th pick.
Writer's Note: The Islanders have a plethora of second and third rounders now. The Islanders really don't want to make a draft pick as they have already traded their 1st rounder twice so far.
7:13 p.m.- Duthie interviews Nikita Filatov, the newest Columbus Blue Jacket.
Writer's Note. Ah. Filatov is a Sidney Crosby fan. And he has been taking English lessons since the age of four. Does he play the piano too? What about the saxophone? Okay, that's enough.
7:10 p.m. The Columbus Blue Jackets select Russian forward Nikita Filatov with the sixth overall pick.(Central Army-2)
Writer's Note: Filatov is an excellent pick for Columbus. He wants to play in North America and already speaks English. Is this the end of Nikolai Zherdev in Columbus?
7:06 p.m. **** Bettman announces yet another trade. Columbus trades a 2008 1st Round Pick (19th overall) and a 2008 3rd Round Pick (67th overall pick) to Philadelphia for forward R.J. Umberger and 2008 4th Rounder (118th overall). Columbus still keeps the 6th overall pick.
Writer's Note: The Flyers need to shed some payroll and the Blue Jackets had the extra 1st rounder acquired from the Adam Foote trade with Colorado. A sensible trade for both teams.
7:04 p.m.- The Blue Jackets own the sixth overall pick. Hold on though, trades are happening at a Lightning-quick pace.
7:01 p.m. The Leafs select defenseman Luke Schenn of the WHL's Kelowna Rockets.
Writer's Note: McGuire is screaming "Let the Leafs rebuilding begin!". Settle down Pierre. Seriously.
6:58 p.m. Bettman announces the trade. The Islanders trade the 5th overall pick to Toronto for their 2008 1st rounder (7th overall pick ) and two conditional draft picks: either Toronto's 60th overall pick and a 2009 third rounder or Pick 68 and 2009 2nd rounder.
Writer's Note: That is confusing but essentially Toronto gives up a 2nd and 3rd rounder in the 2008 and 2009 drafts along with the 7th pick for New York's 5th overall pick.
6:56 p.m.- Leafs Assistant GM Jeff Jackson is by the Central Registry desk. TSN's Pierre McGuire is ballistic as he apparently believes Schenn is the next Bobby Orr.
6:52 p.m.- **** TSN's Darren Dreger can barely contain his excitement as he has just been informed of a Toronto Maple Leafs/ New York Islanders trade. All he knows right now is that Toronto and New York are swapping 1st Rounders, with Toronto moving up to the Number 5 spot.
Writer's Note: The Leafs covet Kelowna Rockets defenseman Luke Schenn but we'll have to wait and see.
6:51 p.m. The New York Islanders have the next pick and are surely entertaining some trade offers.
6:46 p.m.- Blues Assistant GM/ Director of Scouting Jarmo Kekalainen announces that they have selected defenseman Alex Pietrangelo (Niagara, Ontario Hockey League)
Writer's Note: Wow. Another defenseman. Teams are making fairly predictable decisions so far. A bit of a surprise to me as the Blues are loaded at the defenseman position (Eric Brewer, Erik Johnson). Davidson and Kekalainen would obviously disagree.
6:44 p.m.- The TSN Draft Crew are salivating over St.Louis' emerging prospects as they wait for Blues President John Davidson and the rest of his crew to make his pick.
6:41 p.m.- Bettman announces a trade that was reported earlier on TSN. Once again, the Montreal Canadiens trade their 2008 1st Round Pick (#25th overall), a 2009 2nd Round Pick in exchange for Alex Tanguay and Calgary's 2008 5th Round Pick.
6:40 p.m.- Two of the top three picks so far have been used on defensemen. As Gord Miller reported earlier on Sportscentre, four of the top five picks may be used on defenseman, which has never happened before in the history of the NHL Entry Draft.
6:35 p.m.- Thrashers GM Don Waddell announces that Atlanta is proud to select, with the third overall pick, from the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League, defenseman Zach Bogosian.
Writer's Note: Bogosian is boss. He is a physical specimen that loves to compete. Bogosian may be a Scott Stevens clone. In fact, Bogosian is friends with Scott Stevens' nephew and even spent time at Stevens' cottage after the New Jersey Devils won the Cup in 2003. The Thrashers score big with this pick.
6:32 p.m.- Bettman announces the Florida/Phoenix trade. (Jokinen for Ballard, Boynton and the 49th overall pick)
6:31 p.m.- How many times are we going to see footage of Drew Doughty working out on an exercise bike?
6:29 p.m.- The Atlanta Thrashers are now on the clock at the 3rd overall slot.
6:27 p.m. The L.A Kings use the second overall pick on defenseman Drew Doughty (Guelph Storm, Ontario Hockey League)
Writer's Note: A great pick. Dougty is fast, smart and mature. He excelled on Team Canada as a 17-year-old and is committed to improving himself as an athlete. With Jack Johnson, Thomas Hickey and Drew Doughty, the Kings have the best young defense corps in the National Hockey League.
6:26 p.m. The website you want is http://www.seenstamkos.com/.
6:24 p.m. The Los Angeles Kings are up next in the Entry Draft.
6:21 p.m. TSN informs their audience that Steven Stamkos is the first Macedonian-Canadian to be drafted since Ed Jovanovski. James Duthie then informs everyone that http://www.stevenstamkos.com/ is the hottest website in Tampa right now.
Writer's Note: I'm checking it out right now.
6:18 p.m.- Tampa Bay Lightning GM Jay Feaster congratulates the 2008 Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings. New Lightning Owner Oren Koules is introduced and will make their selection. Koules, who looks like he may have had a few cocktails before the draft, makes the obvious selection, taking Sarnia Sting Center Steven Stamkos.
6:17 p.m.- TSN announces another trade: The Florida Panthers send their captain Olli Jokinen to the Phoenix Coyotes for defenseman Keith Ballard, defenseman Nick Boynton and a 2008 2nd Round Pick (49th overall). TSN's Pierre McGuire seems to think that this trade is going to benefit both Phoenix and Florida.
Writer's Note: Trades are happening so quickly that I can't determine what is happening.
6:15 p.m.- Commissioner Gary Bettman kicks off the 2008 NHL Entry Draft to a chorus of Ottawa boobirds.
6:14 p.m.- The microphone problems are solved and we get the Sara Orlesky/Steven Stamkos interview.
Writer's Note: Orlesky is pumped up. Stamkos is all smiles. Why wouldn't he be smiling? He is about to be drafted 1st overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
6:12 p.m.- According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, the Calgary Flames will move Alex Tanguay to the Montreal Canadiens for a 2008 1st Round Pick (25th overall).
6:08 p.m.- James Duthie tells us that Sara Orlesky is standing by with Steven Stamkos for a pre-draft interview but technical difficulties prevent the interview from ever happening. TSN breaks to a commercial.
Writer's Note: That was awkard.
6:02 p.m TSN's broadcast is only two minutes old and they have already announced a trade. Broadcaster James Duthie is breaking down the three-way trade. Here is the trade: The Anaheim Ducks trade the 12th overall pick to Los Angeles; Calgary gets forward Mike Cammalleri and Anaheim gets the 17th and 28th overall picks. The trade has not been confirmed yet however.
Writer's Note: The Cammalleri rumours have been around for months now. Edmonton was interested and must not be happy that their Alberta rivals picked up the talented forward. L.A moves a player that they wanted to and move up in the draft. Look out, but Anaheim is stockpilingfirst round picks.
5:57 p.m.- The 2008 NHL Entry Draft is only minutes away and the suspense is building. Rumours are rampant across the Internet that the Toronto Maple Leafs are trying to persuade Mats Sundin into signing a lucrative one-year contract to stay in Toronto. As has been reported for days now, the Montreal Canadiens are eager to see #13 in Bleu, Blanc et Rouge.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

Illegal Curve's Inaugural Live Trade Deadline Blog

Note: I will be live blogging throughout the day. My most recent posts will appear at the top of the page.

2:40pm: Alright, we are 40 minutes past the deadline and I've been here for almost eight straight hours. Time to go home for a nap. Thanks to everyone who came by and checked out the blog; I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

2:34: The Thrashers have traded Alex Giroux to the Capitals for Joe Motzko.

Analysis: I'm not an AHL scout so I've got nothing for you on this one!

2:31pm: The Kings have dealt J.S. Aubin to the Ducks for a 7th round pick.

Analysis: If Aubin plays for the Ducks in any kind of meaningful game, they won't be playing meaningful games for long...

2:27pm: In my opinion, everyone is overrating the Pens. I just wanna know who is going to start in net for them come playoff time... Conklin? Fleury? Does that instill confidence in Penguins fans? I'd say no.

2:22pm: The Islanders have traded Marc-Andre Bergeron to the Ducks for a 3rd rounder.

Analysis: Don't see why the Ducks want him considering he can't play any defense. The Islanders did well getting a 3rd rounder here.

2:20pm: The Leafs have traded Chad Kilger to the Panthers for a 3rd rounder.

Analysis: Kilger is a third/fourth line grinder. The Panthers want some veterans on their depth lines due to some injuries and the Leafs can use picks, so it makes sense for both sides.

2:18pm: The Coyotes have dealt Fred Sjostrom, David LeNeveu and Josh Gratton to the Rangers for Al Montoya and Marcel Hossa.

Analysis: Don Maloney used to be Sather's right-hand man so he knows what he's getting with Montoya and Hossa. In my opinion, Montoya is the best player in this deal. Sjostom is good defensively but limited in his offensive ability. LeNeveu has been in the AHL for a long-time now and is not any one's long term goaltending answer and Gratton is a throw in. As for Hossa's inclusion, well, he's good on the boards but that's about it. Give the victory here to the Coyotes.

2:14pm: The Wings have acquired Brad Stuart from the Kings for a 2nd round pick and a 4th rounder.

Analysis: Well, Stuart should add depth to the Wings defense corps going into the playoffs. He skates well and makes a good first-pass but isn't going to put this team over the top. As for the Kings, it is always nice to stash picks, especially when they have some young defensive prospects to work into their line-up in the next little while.

2:10pm: The Islanders traded Chris Simon to the Wild for a 6th round pick.

Analysis: Not really sure why. That's all I have to say. As the panel points out, they have enough fighters. Simon used to be a pretty good hockey player back in the day, but he's not what he used to be and he brings with him distractions.

2:00pm: The deadline is here, but there still may be some trades. Regardless, I'm still in shock over this trade. Pierre is going nuts, and I don't blame him.

1:58pm: Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis to the Penguins for Angelo Esposito, Erik Christensen, Colby Armstrong and a 1st rounder.

Analysis: Unless the Pens re-sign Hossa then they overpaid by miles. Wow. Hossa will make them the favorite in the East, but that is a big time price to give up. As for Atlanta, Don Waddell may have just saved his job.

1:55pm: The Rangers have acquired Christian Backman from the Blues for a 4th round pick.

Analysis: Backman is earning $2.2 million per season this year and $3.4 million next year but his addition is a good one for the Rangers. The Rangers biggest weakness is their defense, and Backman is an improvement for them. As for the Blues, they didn't get much in return but got cap relief and that's all they wanted.

1:53pm: The Leafs have traded Hal Gil to the Penguins for a 2nd round and 5th round pick.

Analysis: The Leafs did well here. They don't need Hal Gill on their back-end and they need picks. As for the Pens, they need size and stability on the defense and want to make a run this year so it makes sense for them too.

1:47pm: 13 minutes until the deadline...But remember, lots of trades trickle through a bit after the 2pm CST cutoff.

1:45pm: Milbury throws down with some Armstrong/Modano feud information as to why Doug Armstrong was canned. Good stuff.

1:32pm: Nothing doing still. However, they did just play a clip of Cristobal Huet. He sounded genuinely shocked to be dealt and I don't blame him.

1:17pm: Lucky us! We get to listen to the Brian Campbell interview for a third time.

1:15pm: It only took just over six hours for the first Milbury/Luongo crack. Let's review the old Milbury trade for entertainment purposes. Islanders traded Roberto Luongo and Olli Jokinen for Mark Parrish and Oleg Kvasha....speechless? I thought so.

1:09pm: Lots of talking but no action lately. I'd guess this is the calm before the final storm.

12:58pm: Dave Hodge and the writers are talking about Columbus again and how they are throwing in the towel. Guys, IT IS THE RIGHT DECISION!

12:51pm: Again, I'm with Pierre. I don't trust Huet and I like the trade by the Habs.

12:48pm: Matt Pettinger interview time. I need a nap...

12:44pm: Bob McKenzie doesn't see Olli Jokinen or Rob Blake being moved today.

12:42pm: The second Wade Belak interview of the day! This is enjoyable.

12:36pm: Dreger is saying Vancouver has dealt Matt Cooke to Washington for Matt Pettinger.

Analysis: Matt Cooke isn't what he once was either. Pettinger is a depth winger, who isn't much better than Cooke but is younger and a BC boy. As for Washington, not really sure what they are doing here today. I don't mind the Huet pickup, but Fedorov and Cooke??? I just don't see that as an upgrade.

12:29pm: When Glenn Healy talks, does anyone listen?

12:25pm: The official move is Adam Foote from Columbus for a conditional first rounder. Also, if he re-signs after the season with the Avs, there is another pick involved.

Analysis: Foote has played a lot of minutes this year, so I worry a bit about his wearing down. If the Avs allow him to share the burden with Hannan and Co., I'd say the deal is a positive for both sides. Columbus has to be happy with grabbing a first rounder. Scott Howson knows what he's doing; any talk about them going for a playoff spot at the expense of the future is ludicrous.

12:21pm: Burkie is in a great mood. This puts me in a bad mood.

12:19pm: Here we go. Burke says he isn't a deadline guy. Who woulda though that? He is doing an interview with only 1 hour and 40 minutes until the trade deadline...

12:17pm: Brian Burke has arrived for an interview!!!! Damn, the sound isn't working. I can't wait for this. It should be epic. I'm pretty sure this interview is the only reason I watch trade deadline day.

12:15pm: Who else is for making the GM Corner the Canadian version of PTI???? Please, I know I have support from you readers. You can't tell me that wouldn't be amazing.

12:12pm: Dreger is reporting Sergei Fedorov to the Washington Capitals for prospect Theo Ruth.

Analysis: I'm sorry, but most people haven't seen Fedorov play this year. Lets just say he is not what he once was. In fact, he's not close to what he once was. Don't really know why Washington is making this move.

12:10pm: The GM Corner returns! And Milbury is saying the Leafs no-trade clauses are inhibiting Fletcher's ability to make a deal. And yes, JFJ is ACROSS THE TABLE! Wow, unintentional comedy at its finest.

12:06pm: Pierre is the first one on the set to drop arms-race. Where is Fall Out Boy???? Get the song ready...

12:03pm: The Avs have acquired Adam Foote from the Blue Jackets. What the Jackets get in return hasn't been reported. In other news, Warren Rychel, Rene Corbet and Craig Billington also waived their no-trades to return to Denver...

11:54am: McKenzie says the Avs are hot in pursuit of Foote and Foote says he'd only go to Colorado if he were to be traded. Who would be going the other way is not yet known.

11:51am: If I have to watch Michael Landsberg on that curling commercial one more time, I may break my computer in half and there is no way TSN wouldn't held responsible for that. Granted, I could always put my computer back together with Landsberg's hair gel.

11:48am: Somebody please tell James Duthie this isn't a funeral. Why is he talking in such a sad tone???? These guys are paid millions of dollars and this is a part of the business.

11:44am: Brian Campbell is doing his best Ryan Smyth impersonation.

11:38am: It is Martin Lapointe from Chicago to Ottawa for a 6th round pick.

Analysis: Well, they paid less for Lapointe than Florida did for Belak so that's a plus. Lapointe's best days are behind him, but he should help in the dressing room. His toughness should help their 4th line.

11:37am: Martin Lapointe has been traded to the Senators, but what the Blackhawks are getting in return is yet to be determined.

11:35am: Bob McKenzie is reporting that Adam Foote's contract talks with Columbus have fallen apart and that may lead to a deal.

11:33am: Why does Duthie sound sad for Mike Smith??? This guy is going from being a backup behind Marty Turco to being a starter in Tampa Bay. It's his lucky day.

11:27am: Brian Campbell seems far more shaken up now than he was when I met him in September and he asked me what brisket was. (True story)

11:20am: The Blackhawks have traded Tuomo Ruutu to Carolina for Andrew Ladd.

Analysis: Both teams are trading youngsters who haven't played up to expectations. In fact, their contracts are both $1.8 million for this season and both are RFA's at season's end. In my opinion Ruutu is the superior player, however, he couldn't reach his potential in Chicago. Same for Ladd in Carolina, although I think he is tad overrated.

11:16am: The Avalanche have traded Karlis Skrastins and a 3rd round pick to the Panthers for Ruslan Salei.

Analysis: The Panthers will plug Skrastins on their back-end to block shots, but the deal was made for the 3rd pick. Salei is getting up there in age and isn't a long-term option for a young team like Florida. As for Colorado, Salei bring veteran experience on the back-end, as the Avs have demonstrated they are serious about making a playoff run.

11:13am: Dave Hodge has to be 134 years old.

11:00am: The boys on the set are hungry, so JFJ has just bought pizza for his fellow members. What a great guy. He just over-tipped the pizza guy and gave him a no-trade clause...

10:50am: Cristobal Huet to the Capitals for a 2nd round pick in 2009.

Analysis: I know this trade seems stupid but I actually like it. Price is ready to carry the load and he's definitely no worse than Huet. The Habs were going to lose Huet anyways, so at least they get a draft pick out of the deal. Also, the team is also going to make another move today, so let's not rush to judgment.

10:43am: The Richards trade is a big one. Brad Richards and Johan Holmqvist for Michael Smith, Jussi Jokinen and Jeff Halpern.

Analysis: Jokinen is a nice winger and Smith is a solid netminder who flies under the radar, but this trade doesn't make the Bolts better unless they use this extra money to sign a defenseman in the off-season.

10:42am: Brad Richards has waived his no-movement clause but the word on what the Bolts are getting back is not yet out.

Analysis: I'm a big Richards fan and I really think this move has Brett Hull's hands all over it. He realizes Richards' potential and ability; the extra offense should put Dallas over the top.

10:39am: Apparently Brad Richards has been traded to Dallas pending his approval.

10:35am: The details are out. Campbell for Steve Bernier and a 1st rounder.

Analysis: Well, I am not the biggest Steve Bernier fan. He's a big guy but he isn't the most consistent player. At least the Sabres are getting some value for Campbell though. Plus, while the first round pick will be at the end of the 1st round, it is a deep draft and those picks are always worth something.

10:33am: Even though they have yet to mention his name, you have to wonder if the deal includes Matt Carle. He was rumored to be going other way in the Redden rumors and Redden and Campbell are both pending UFA's.

10:25am: Our first real trade and it is Brian Campbell to the Sharks.

Analysis: I'll hold out until I see what they gave up, but he is EXACTLY what they need on their back-end.

10:23am: TSN has upstaged its Cam Janssen interview with a Wade Belak interview! Well done. I'm confused though. JFJ hasn't given Wade a no-trade? But he has a pulse...

10:21am: Kenny Holland is always a good interview, but c'mon, he ain't giving you anything right now. Is there a more useless interview than the GM pre-deadline interview??? Do people expect Holland to say, "You know we just offered Hudler and picks for Hossa"?

10:17am: The crew is now analyzing this trade. Somebody please bottle me. This is agonizing.

10:15am: Another trade has been made. The Leafs have dealt Wade Belak to Florida for a 5th round pick.

Analysis: Any pick for Belak is a plus.

10:10am: Mike Milbury just questioned the contract given to Patrick Marleau, specifically because of his inability to compete. Ummm, Mike Milbury....ummm, didn't you sign Alexei Yashin to a 10 year contract?????

10:07am: Pierre and JFJ are disagreeing on the value of Pavel Kubina. I'm with Pierre on this one--and it's not close.

10:04am: People need to stop ragging on Brad Richards. The guy is better than he is getting credit for. Has anyone seen his linemates this season? He logs big minutes in all situations and has proven to be clutch in the past.

9:59am: JFJ says he thinks Brian Burke would have given up the Oilers' first round pick for Mats Sundin. That is interesting; I like it when former GMs give you some insight like that.

9:50am: You know the cast is in trouble when Mike Milbury has been the voice of reason all morning.

9:44am: The cast has Cam Janssen on the line! Tremendous. This is definitely the first time he has EVER been interviewed. So far this beats the Marty Biron interview from last year.

9:41am: Duthie is caught off-guard as Gord throws it back to him while he's clearly on Facebook...

9:39am: Gord Miller is intrigued by Detroit. Bob McKenzie is also intrigued by the Wings...that he just had as an after breakfast snack.

9:33am: We have a trade! The Devils have acquired Bryce Salvador from the Blues for Cam Janssen.

Analysis: A nice move by the Devils to shore up their defensive corps. Salvador is a UFA but Janssen isn't much to give up. It was clear after the Blues extended Jackman that Salvador was on his way out.

9:30am: Matthew Barnaby just called Duncan Keith a stallworth???? A Donte Stallworth? Matthew I think you mean stalwart.

9:28am: I've now taken to listening to the new Jack Johnson CD in the background. It makes listening to Dave Hodge that much more soothing.

9:26am: Michael Farber tells us Patrick Marleau has another gear... Thank you Michael. You mean his 29 points isn't to the best of his abilities?

9:22am: Why do people keep bringing up the Ducks' poor goal differential? Have people not realized that Selanne and Niedermayer weren't there for a majority of the season? Am I missing something? This team is far and away the best in the NHL right now.

9:17am: John Lu tells us that Hossa's equipment is in his Atlanta stall right now. That is pretty intense. Is John gonna tell us that Hossa uses Dove soap too? Gotta love the pre-trade reports when no one has any news or anything to say.

9:14am: The last 20 minutes of boredom has allowed me to check my spelling of Buhler below and imdb tells me it's Bueller. My bad.

8:55am: Can anyone tell me why TSN isn't broadcasting this in HD? Buhler?

8:40am: I'd say the MVP of the telecast so far has been Darren Pang. Panger is being honest with his analysis of many of the players being bandied about today.

8:35am: There we have it, Bobby Holik admitting to Matthew Barnaby in the past that if he's your number one center you don't have a chance to make the playoffs. Funny, because I don't remember him saying that when the Rangers gave him 5 yr /$45 million.

8:27am: Cory Woron tells us the Leafs are going to workout on the beach today and that the TSN crew will have video of that. Folks, I DID NOT MAKE THAT UP. Seriously.

8:21am: Gord Miller just asked Bob what Foote's contract situation was with Colorado. Thanks Gord, goin retro with the analysis. I wonder how many minutes Ray Bourque will log tonight...

8:12am: Our first real filler has debuted. The panel is now listing their top five Stanley Cup contenders. Does anyone care??? For goodness sake, it is February.

8:06am: We have just sat through almost fifteen minutes of nothing. Finally, Dreger tells us that no one from the Bolts has told Richards, "Here's the deal we want you to consider." But Dreger does expect that to happen soon. McKenzie tells us that Rob Blake (the actor) has not yet waived his no trade clause. In other news, McKenzie has waived his no bacon clause and is expecting the breakfast B.E.L.T in a matter of moments.

7:52am: John Lu tells us that the zamboni was on the ice at Habs practice. Thanks Jon!!! Terrific insight from the TSN reporters who are on location.

7:50am: In what is becoming terrific unintentional comedy, Duthie continues to whisper into his mic during interviews.

7:46am: Gord Miller's first appearance on the show is upstaged by Darren Dreger's first appearance. Apparently the Stars are the favorite for Richards with an offer of Mike Smith, Jussi Jokinen and others. Bob McKenzie tells us that Adam Foote wants to remain in Columbus and the deal is getting close. Big Mac does mention that if the talks fall through, he may come into play.

7:35am: Duthie just said that both the Richards and Hossa deals are close to getting done. He lists the Sens and Habs as top candidates for Hossa. Late last night the rumor was that the Sens were including Antoine Vermette in their package and the Habs possibly including Chris Higgins. It will be interesting to see what the Thrashers are looking for.

7:32am: K, it has already reached the point of awkward with JFJ talking about the Leafs and it isn't even 8am CST.

7:28am: Pierre just said the Leafs may not make the playoffs...

7:23am: Shocker of the day--the first Mats Sundin interview!!! This was an unexpected beginning to the telecast. Over/under how many times we see this video today is at 4.5.

7:20am: I finally got TSN broadband to start working. Just to let readers know, we will be relying on TSN throughout the day for the most recent news and unintentional comedy. If you haven't heard, Pierre Maguire has apparently just traded a few dollar bills for an eight ball... I mean, how else could he have this much energy at 8am?????????

7:16am: There were some overnight rumors that Brad Richards had been traded to Dallas and Marian Hossa to Montreal; however, these have yet to be confirmed by the major broadcast networks and it doesn't look like they have been completed just yet.

7:13am: Mike Comrie has agreed to a one-year contract extension with the Islanders, and appears to be staying put on Long Island.

Analysis: Comrie seems to like playing for NYI and the team appears to be happy to have him. This decision made sense for both sides.

Hockey Night In Canada Live Blog - Hockey Day in Canada Edition

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Hockey Night in Canada. Tonight's match up will be between the surging Montreal Canadiens and the first place Ottawa Senators. Montreal is only three points back of first place, and Dany Heatley and Daniel Alfredsson are returning from their respective injuries. This should be a doozie.

6:11pm: With four games on CBC's schedule today, Dean Brown and Gary Galley will be calling this one. I have never heard Dean Brown, but this should be a nice break from Bob Cole.

6:14pm: 22 seconds into the game Ottawa makes it 1-0, there is nothing wrong with shooting the puck at the net, remember that one kids. Anything can happen when you shoot the puck towards the net.

6:15pm: Ottawa makes it 2-0. Dany Heatley takes a shot from the side and Cristobal Huet misplays the puck like Bill Buckner in 86 and it goes right through him into the net. Way to show you belong in first Montreal!

6:19pm: 3-0 Ottawa!! Is this game real? Spezza, Heatley, Alfredsson and Corvo combine on a fantastic passing play to bury the third goal in 4 mins. Guy Carbonneau goes to the bullpen and brings in rookie Carey Price to replace starter Cris Huet. If you are Montreal, this must be depressing. In the words of Greg Millen, lets see how they will react to being down 3-0 to start the game.

6:27pm: Commentator Gary Galley says that Tom Kostopoulos would rather dance (fight) with Jason Spezza than Ray Emery after hacking at a lose puck in front of the net. Has there been any other team in NHL history where the goalie is the toughest player on the team? This needs to be more closely examined. He went toe to toe last year with Buffalo Sabres tough guy Andrew Peters and not one person on the team stepped in to protect their goalie. The guy had Mike Tyson painted on his mask and was told to take it off. The same Mike Tyson who: was convicted of rape, bit of Evander Holyfields ear, and is probably definitely insane. He probably should have specified that it was Mike Tyson circa 1987 in his "Mike Tyson's Punch Out" (best. game. ever.) days as opposed to the Mike Tyson present day who is bankrupt and getting tattoos on his face. Don't mess with Emery.

6:40pm: Flipping to CBC's other game, Edmonton @ Calgary: while profiling Oilers rookie Sam Gagner, Greg Millen says that John Tavares once got so mad at Sam Gagner that he took of his skate and threw it at him. I didn't know that John Tavares attended the Happy Gilmore school of hockey.

6:58pm: While today is Hockey Day in Canada on CBC, celebrating hockey around Canada. Don Cherry seems to be confused and keeps calling it Canada Day. Confusing it with Canada Day which takes place on July 1st, celebrating the establishment of Canada as a country. Get a clue, Don! (not that this is the least bit surprising)

7:12pm: While it is still 3-0 for Ottawa, Montreal has had their fair share of chances to score a few goals. Emery must be arriving at practice a few minutes early these days. He's stopped 15 shots on 15 saves.

7:14pm: Cris Huet's stat line of the night. 4 shots, 1 save, that is a 25% save percentage. Brutal.

7:20pm: DANY HEATLEY! Wow, all alone in front of the net, I have pulled that many times in NHL 08 for XBOX 360 (gamertag mremis ; i'll take anyone), as he walked in alone I felt myself moving the joysticks left and right. Very nice goal, Heatley buries his chance in alone on Carey Price. Something that Montreal have not been able to do tonight (bury their chances).

7:40pm: Since it is Hockey Day in Canada, live from Winkler, MB. Instead of the CBC Hot Stove full of juicy trade rumors of where Sundin, or Forsberg will be going, we are treated to some of Manitoba's finest junior hockey. For the record it is -26 celcius in Winkler and with the wind it feels like -42. That is one COLD Hockey Day in Canada.

7:55pm: On NESN they also play Nickelback's cover of Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting during hockey broadcasts. I always thought that was only for CBC, NESN should find their own music.

8:51pm: Due to the lack of competitive nature in the games, I have taken the time to bring to Illegal Curve Dany Heatley's goal in the Senators game. Enjoy, have a good night.

Previous Live Blogs:
February 2, 2008:
January 26, 2008: NHL Superskills

Enjoy Hockey Day in Canada everyone, and make sure to check out Illegal Curve’s live blog throughout the day on February 26.

Hockey Night In Canada Live Blog

Welcome to the bowels and depths of my basement. Last week I arrived on the scene with the first Illegal Curve live blog, watching and providing my sarcastic and sometimes thoughtful insights on the NHL All Star SuperSkills Competition.

Tonight, CBC will be broadcasting a gem, the Toronto Maple Leafs (don't confuse them with the Marlies) will face-off against the Alfredsson-less and Heatley-less Ottawa Senators. This one should be awesome!

Before I begin, I would like to say that last night I saw Peace Rally 3D, U2 3D and it was excellent. Hardcore U2 fans, and even fringe fans, will enjoy this technological spectacle.

I will be flipping to other games this evening depending on which are the most competitive. All times central.

8:31: Leafs win 4 - 2. Thats it for me, I'm off to drink some Chilean Merlot.

8:23: CBC just showed a great commercial for Cheez Whiz, I had no idea that it could be used on so many things. The last time I had Cheez Whiz was when I was seven and it was on celery with raisins. Yum.

8:09: Toronto scores again to make it 4-2. The nails are coming down on the coffin.

8:02: Robert Earl in his first NHL game, makes a nifty behind the back pass to Carlo Colaiacovo to retake the lead.

7:57: Ottawa ties it up. Chris "the hammer" Neil.

7:53: Going into the third period of Ottawa/Toronto. Ottawa needs to stay out of the box to give themselves a chance to generate some momentum on offense. Toronto has had plenty of chances to score and have failed to deliver on the power play. I could see Ottawa pulling a come from behind win.

7:48: The CBC Hotstove speculates on Peter Forsberg. Apparently one team is putting a 3 year deal on the table. Are they nuts? Peter Forsberg is good, but he is coming off several foot surgeries and hasn't proven he can stay healthy. I hope he can come back but I would not take that kind of risk on him.

7:32: Boy do I love the NESN announcers and their accents. They just announced a contest where you can have "dinnah" with Bruins legend Donny Sweeney. Always gives me a chuckle. Detroit 1 - Boston 1.

7:21: Ottawa now commits their 4th penalty of the period, it was committed by Rick Nash look alike (as Ron MacLean pointed out in Coaches Corner) Andrej Meszaros. His third of the period.

7:11: The unstoppable force that is Mats Sundin has now drawn his second penalty of the game. Toronto has been on the power play for much of the beginning of the second period. They should look to better utilize their most accurate shooter Tomas Kaberle.

7:07: Ottawa looked very strong at the end of the first period, controlling the puck in the Maple Leafs zone. Lets see how they come out for the second.

6:36: Forward/Defenseman Christoph Schubert is no match for the man beast that is Mats Sundin. He takes a penalty while trying to cover Sundin behind the net.

On the ensuing powerplay, nude model & voyeur Jiri Tlusty buries puts the Leafs up 2-0.

6:29: The other lesser known Moore Dominic (brother of Steve) scores his first goal as a Leaf, assisted by Boyd Devereaux. What a one-two punch.

5:45: Elliotte Friedman has his pregame interview with Mats Sundin, who is looking awful bald these days, it seems like he put his head in the Shine-O'-Ball-O before the game. While watching the interview, I thought "if he put on glasses, he would look alot like Pierre McGuire". Allow me to illustrate my point.