The Hot List from the Hockey News

The Hockey News publishes a weekly list of top prospects. This week's entry can be found here.

1. Louis Leblanc, C – Lac St. Louis Lions (QMAAA): Leblanc is a sought-after commodity these days. The only non-major junior player invited to Canada’s Under-18 camp for the Ivan Hlinka tourney, Leblanc has also chosen Harvard over Val d’Or for the final step in his amateur career. In the meantime, the USHL and Omaha could be the next destination for the high-scoring pivot. Leblanc was the Quebec Midget AAA leading scorer and MVP this season, while passing Daniel Briere’s mark with 85 goals over two years. Draft eligible in 2009.

2. Patrick Wiercioch, D – Denver Pioneers (WCHA): Yup, Wiercioch is no longer headed to the Wisconsin Badgers. With a backlog of bodacious blueliners in Madison and David Carle’s situation in Denver, the Pios managed to pluck the highly touted defenseman from their conference rival.

Wiercioch, a second-round selection of the Senators in June, comes from the sturdy Omaha Lancers of the USHL, where, despite injuries, he was pleased with his environment.

“I was surrounded by one of the best teams in junior hockey,” he said. “We had 19 Division I scholarship players on the roster.”

The B.C. native was also happy to be selected by a Canadian franchise, especially one he sees himself playing for in the future.

“I think Ottawa is a good fit,” he said. “I’m an offensive defenseman, much like the first pick (Erik Karlsson).”

While Wiercioch had planned to spend the next few years in Wisconsin, the timeline likely doesn’t change for Denver, where he expects to grow his game at the proper pace and go pro when the time is right.

“Making the NHL is the No. 1 goal,” he noted. “If I feel I’m ready to make the jump, then I’ll be confident in that decision.”

In the meantime, Wiercioch brings a good deal of buzz and even more playmaking ability to the Mile High City. Drafted 42nd overall by Ottawa in 2008.

3. Stepan Novotny, RW – Kelowna Rockets (WHL): The fact Denver landed Wiercioch took the sting out of losing Novotny to the Dub. The Czech national started off his North American career as a star with prep school Shattuck-St. Mary’s before hopping over to the USHL to play tougher competition with the Indiana Ice. Those enemies will get meaner and nastier in the Western League, so Novotny will have a chance to really show what he’s made of. Draft eligible in 2009.

4. Steven Anthony, C – Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL): The prized rookie didn’t blow the hinges off the door as a 16-year-old, but the Sea Dogs were a deep squad and he was only 16. With some attrition in the Saint John ranks, look for Anthony to get back to the offensively dominant player he was with Sidney Crosby’s old squad, the Dartmouth Subways. Draft eligible in 2009.

5. Jared Cowan, D – Spokane Chiefs (WHL): The upcoming season was supposed to be the Memorial Cup run for the Chiefs, but wouldn’t you know it, those darned kids caught fire too soon. The run for a repeat is now on and Cowan, all 6-foot-5 and 207 pounds of him, will be there for the defense. Draft eligible in 2009.

6. Patrik Berglund, C – Vasteras IK (Swe): The early buzz coming out of St. Louis is that the 6-foot-4 Berglund is coming to town and he plans on staying a while. With 45 points in 36 games this year, the young Swede brings a scoring dimension the Blues could use. Drafted 25th overall by St. Louis in 2006.

7. Josef Pontasch, LW – Detroit Belle Tire (MAHA): USA Hockey’s Select 17 festival wrapped up on the weekend and the leading scorer was Pontasch, who tied Beau Bennett of the L.A. Jr. Kings with 11 points, but scored five goals to Bennett’s four. Nonetheless, they’re two names to watch out for. Draft eligible in 2009.

8. Michael Frolik, C – Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL): With a sagging offense and a pivot spot available, look for Frolik to make a serious challenge for a roster spot in Florida this fall. The Czech center was dynamite alongside Jakub Voracek at the world juniors, but missed significant time with injury as well. Drafted 10th overall by Florida in 2006.

9. Riku Helenius, G – Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL): At 6-foot-3, 203 pounds, Helenius covers a lot of net, which he’ll do once again for Seattle next season. The Finn’s first North American campaign was a success, if not one overshadowed by fellow Dub net stars Chet Pickard and Dustin Tokarski. Drafted 15th overall by Tampa Bay in 2006.

10. Brian Salcido, D – Portland Pirates (AHL): Technically, Salcido isn’t a Pirate anymore; when the season begins, he’ll either be with the new AHL affiliate Iowa Chops or the Anaheim Ducks. It goes without saying the offensively savvy defenseman would prefer to be a Duck. Drafted 141st overall by Anaheim in 2005.

CHL Import Draftees

The Hockey News examines the top incoming Import Draftees headed to the CHL.

The article can be found here.

Simon Olsson, C – Chicago Steel (USHL): At 5-foot-8, 170 pounds, there isn’t a lot more to Olsson other than his blinding offensive skills. The transplanted Swede was nearly a point-a-game player for the Steel this year, with 56 in 57 games. The P.E.I. Rockets will have to pry him away from the WCHA's Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks, however, as Olsson committed to the NCAA school back in March. Draft eligible in 2009.

Having seen Olsson play, I can safely say he should impress in PEI. A very talented, shifty player who can put up points in bunches.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. The weekly release from the USHL.
2. By way of correction to an item posted yesterday, it is the Ducks, and not the NHL, that are fining Niedermayer $500,000. The NHLPA is working on getting that money refunded.
3. Canada will play Russia for World Under-18 Gold, Wednesday on TSN.
4. Memorial Cup History, 1931.
5. Vandals damage the new arena being constructed in Fargo, ND.
6. James Duthie would like to see the NHL stagger the start times of playoff games.
7. Everyone wants to talk about Sean Avery, including the New Yorker.
8. Pierre Lebrun says Marty Turco was the difference in the Ducks-Stars series.
9. Chris Elliott spends the day with the New York Rangers.
10. William Houston with his thoughts on the CBC's on-air quality.
11. Mike Smith discusses his Domi/King for Olczyk trade.
12. EJ Hradek's Morning Skate.
13. Ping-pong eases the pressure in San Jose.
14. Will Brian Burke be offered a 5-year, $23 million deal?
15. Scott Morrison notes that the Sharks have more to lose tonight.
16. Darren Eliot writes that the Bruins are now back on the NHL radar, despite their Game 7 loss.
17. Martin Brodeur has declined an invitation to join Team Canada.
18. Mark Emmons discusses the post-series handshake.
19. The Hot List from the Hockey News.
20. The Telus Cup is underway in Arnprior, Ontario.
21. A look at the draft eligible Justin (You Must be) Jokinen.
22. The Junior Report.
23. The Berlin Polar Bears have won the DEL Championship.
24. Team Great Britain finishes 4th at the World Division 1 championships.
25. Ken Campbell wants to see more Washington-Philadelphia games.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Check out the promos for the new Mike Myers hockey film, the Love Guru. Illegal Curve eagerly anticipates the release...
2. Despite the loss to the US, Canada's women retain the #1 ranking.
3. Less cowbell?
4. An interesting SI article on Boston College's Nathan Gerbe.
5. Ken Campbell comments on the Wild-Avs series.
6. Elliotte Friedman looks at the peculiarities of the Nonis firing.
7. Jennifer Floyd Engel ponders the disappearance of Chris Pronger. Likely still looking for that missing baby furniture...
8. Is Milan Lucic the new Cam Neely?
9. Memorial Cup History, the 1924 edition.
10. Helene St. James wonders what Fabian Brunstrom will do in the wake of the Nonis firing. Not sure what the fuss is here, Fabian Brunstrom sounds a lot like Jiri Dopita to me.
11. James Duthie thinks Bryan Murray is about one game away from being Nonised.
12. More from Duthie, who hearts the Capitals.
13. Some quotes on the Sean Avery screening scandal.
14. Jason Reitman's thoughts on the Kings (Passover at Cammy's house) and the playoffs.
15. Bob McKenzie's reaction to the firing of Dave Nonis.
16. The Best of Seven blog suggests that the Toronto Maple Leafs have the best fans.
17. The Unofficial USHL Blog hands out its end of season awards.
18. The weekly release from the USHL.
19. The Hot List from the Hockey News.
20. A preview of the OHL Western Conference Finals.
21. Ross McKeon cites lack of mental preparation and passion as reasons for the Ducks poor start to the playoffs.
22. Canada defeats Denmark at the World Under-18's.
23. Patrick Thoreson wants to return to action this series. He must be nuts (nut?).
24. Joe Pelletier looks at Hockey's Greatest Pests.
25. Someone really dislikes the Wild. Like I mean REALLY dislikes them.

1. Terry Frei with an excellent article about how much he likes watching games in Canada.
2. Canada opens the World Championships with a win.
3. The USHL has announced the finalists for their end of season awards.
4. A look at possible scenarios unfolding tonight.
5. Watch the PTI guys talk hockey.
6. Kind of a dated article, but an interesting take on accountability in blogging.
7. John Buccigross wants to see the Islanders outdoors.
8. Can mono explain the poor play of Brad Richards?
9. Last night's loss to Ottawa has secured a Top 10 draft pick for the Leafs. Said pick will be traded for another goalie in 3,2,1...
10. An update on the sort of hockey movie, the Love Guru.
11. Surely not the first time this has been said, but the Flames sneak in the back door. Zing!
12. Wait til next year might finally mean something in Edmonton.
13. Allan Muir profiles some unheralded NHL'ers who have made major contributions.
14. Jim Kelley names David Poile as his Executive of the Year.
15. Michael Farber with his Best and Worst of the Year.
16. A tongue in cheek rendition of the Senators' season.
17. Spector is reporting that the Flames have re-signed Daymond Langkow.
18. The Angry T blog with a projection of how many goals AO would have scored in the early '80's.
19. Interesting article on pre-draft evaluations and the effect of a player's willingness to compete.
20. A brief biography of Bugsy Watson.
21. Scott Morrison feels the Penguins are primed and ready for a playoff run.
22. Elliotte Friedman discusses the Senators woeful slump.
23. The dance card is filled out in the West, but the East is still open.
24. The Canadiens hope to end their franchise worst Stanley Cup drought this year.
25. A Sabres fan is suing the team claiming he was injured by falling plexiglass.

News You Can Use in the Morning

In Light of RP's illness, I will post this morning and try to come up with something for the afternoon.

1. Tom Glavine suggests that he would trade his Cy Young for a Stanley Cup.
2. Are the Senators partying too much?
3. ESPN profiles the Oilers, who had a fan beat up in Calgary on Saturday night.
4. David Amber gives us his Top 10 Gordie Howe moments.
5. Ken Hitchcock will coach Team Canada at the World Championships.
6. Canada's Women's team tries to shake off the jet lag and get ready to play in China.
7. The weekly release from the USHL. In a related note, long time Sioux City and Thunder Bay coach Dave Siciliano will retire after this season.
8. Calgary and Edmonton have thrown their hat into the ring for the 2012 World Juniors.
9. Kyle Turris has signed with the Phoenix Coyotes.
10. Andrew Raycroft will get his first start since January 20th.
11. Jim Matheson examines San Jose's acquisition of Brian Campbell.
12. The Top 10 David Amber Top 10 columns.
13. In a move that will surely impress his wife/girlfriend, Jeremy Williams stays up.
14. Damien Cox thinks the Leafs should use the minors, not buyouts to solve their problems.Good idea in theory, but may cause problems with the NHLPA and in attracting Free Agents.
15. The NHL Nickname challenge.
16. The video from "The Good Old Hockey Game"
17. An in-depth Q and A with Luca Cunti, a Tampa prospect currently playing in the USHL.
18. Terry Frei calls out Ryan Smyth.
19. The Oilers have signed Michigan State forward Bryan Lerg.
20. The weekly Hot List from the Hockey News.
21. Kyle Turris will play three games with the Coyotes and then return to Madison to finish his studies.
22. Puck That Hit gives us the Top 10 Fools in the NHL.
23. The April 1st edition of Campbellnomics.
24. A comprehensive look around the WHL with Gregg Drinnan.
25. Spector sees reason for optimism in Columbus.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Playoff positioning is extra tight in the East. Thats what she said?
2. The Flyers will be without Derian Hatcher and RJ Umberger for the season and the next two weeks, respectively.
3. Is Malkin better without Crosby?
4. Jim Kelley weighs in on the Pronger suspension.
5. Don't look now, but the Panthers are surging.
6. A preview of the CHL Playoffs, with a look at the favourites.
7. The weekly release from the USHL.
8. Minnesota Gophers Forward Tom Pohl has surgery to relieve bleeding on the brain.
9. ECHL'er Robin Gomez may face charges for sucker punching Chris Ferraro.
10. The Hockey News catches up with Fred O'Donnell.
11. Want to know more about a player you never heard of? Check this out.
12. The weekly Hot List from the Hockey News.
13. Meet the consensus #1 pick in the OHL Draft.
14. The Canadian Press pegs the Pacific Division as the race to watch.
15. The weekly Campbellnomics post.
16. A preview of the CIS Men's Hockey Championships.
17. A list of some of the more creative nicknames in the NHL.
18. A look at the internet hype created by NHL goalie equipment.
19. The Blue Jackets are having trouble staying healthy.
20. Someone made a documentary about the Whalers.
21. Detroit is abuzz with Babcock rumours.
22. Darren Eliot tabs Marty Brodeur as the best goalie ever.
23. Erik Ersberg is the latest puck stopper in the Kings Dial-a-Goalie system.
24. Mary Buckhelt gives her opinion on the tie game in the Michigan High School championship.
25. Joe Pelletier's Top 10 Defenders.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Just in case you need another Top 10 list, here is James Duthie.
2. Jim Kelley discusses the pros and cons of non-playoff teams tanking games.
3. Former Regina Pat may make the Pittsburgh Pirates roster. Yes, I said the Pirates. Arrrrrrr Matey.
4. The Michigan High School hockey final was called after 8 overtime periods, and both teams declared winners. Awwwwwww. I wonder if Hil and Barack will do the same?
5. Mike Toth wonders why more goalies don't emulate Martin Brodeur. Presumably because not every dude wants to hump their sister in law.
6. Kane and Toews have re-introduced Chicago to meaningful springtime hockey.
7. A look around the North American junior hockey leagues.
8. Jamie Arniel hopes to be the second member of the Sarnia Sting drafted this June.
9. The Top 20 Prospects in the Canadiens system.
10. David Desharnais is a 5'6 dynamo tearing up the.......ECHL.
11. The Top 10 draft eligible prospects from the QMJHL.
12. Eric Duhatschek comments on the Western Conference playoff race.
13. The Calgary Oval X-treme look to cap their perfect season.
14. Brian Duff of the Hockey News says Mike Richards' new contract will be the benchmark for a host of young talent.
15. Krauts love hockey.
16. Bob Duff (Duff Man?) of the Windsor Star gives his list of the most overpaid NHL'ers.
17. The Penguins are not sure if they will commit to Marian Hossa long term.
18. Nik Backstrom discusses his own goal from this weekend's game versus the Pens.
19. All Things Avs says that Peter Forsberg is enjoying his return to Colorado's injured list.
20. If you are desperate for entertainment, check out Kings's Madness.
21. The weekly release from the USHL.
22. Ryan Kennedy updates the potential choices for this year's draft.
23. Interesting story on the Oxford-Cambridge game in England.
24. Ken Campbell says the Canucks are willing to keep Naslund and Morrison, but at a reduced rate.
25. The Slapshot blog updates us on the college hockey situation in the US.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Sheldon Souray's season is official over after undergoing shoulder surgery.
2. Mike Toth profiles Brent Ashton, the most traded man in NHL history.
3. John Ferguson Jr. has joined TSN for their Trade Deadline coverage.
4. Bob McKenzie breaks down the Sens-Hurricanes trade.
5. Jim Kelley with his Good, Bad and Ugly column. Strangely enough its not about Jarome Iginla, Cory Sarich and Dion Phaneuf.
6. Darren Eliot nominates Bruce Boudreau as his pick for the Jack Adams Trophy.
7. Scott Burnside likes the winning touch Commodore and Stillman bring to the Senators.
8. USA Hockey is getting ready to celebrate Hockey Weekend Across America.
9. The weekly release from the USHL.
10. Brandon's Colby Robak is quickly moving up the draft charts with his strong play.
11. Interesting article about the benefits of downtown arenas.
12. Ryan Gunderson is getting noticed in the ECHL, with sweet deer in the headlights pic.
13. The NHL's best bargains.
14. Taking Notes breaks down the fines handed out by team in the WHL. Good to see Regina, the town that rhymes with fun, representing.
15. TSN has a team by team preview of the trade deadline.
16. Check out this video on how to end your relationship with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
17. A Saskatchewan sawmill worker from Prince Albert (in a can) will shoot for a chance to win $1,000,000.
18. It turns out Sean Avery is sensitive.
19. Mark Seidel of the Hockey News profiles the projected 11-15 picks in this year's NHL draft.
20. David Toews of Shattuck St-Mary's headlines this week's hot list.
21. The Hockey News jumps on the bandwagon of people waiting to fellate the Detroit Red Wings, who seem to get Obama-like reverance in the hockey world.
22. Tyler Arnason has revived his career in Colorado.
23. CBC Sports with an interesting read on former OHL'er Sean Courtney.
24. Check out this story about Steve Yzerman and a "sick" little Wings fan.
25. A profile on Canada's gold medal winning team from the 1948 St. Moritz Olympics.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. The Senators have something to prove tonight. Like why the hell they are stopping the economic stimulus package.
2. The staff at TSN try to choose the best pest in the NHL.
3. JP Dumont has inked a 4 year extension with the Predators.
4. Guy Lafleur wants his case to be held by a jury of his peers. Because if there is one place you can find 12 chain smoking guys with nicknames like "The Flower", its Montreal.
5. John Kreiser looks at 5 good and 5 not-so good trades.
6. A look back at the Bruins-Rangers blockbuster trade from 1975.
7. A look at Greg Puhalski, coach of the Wheeling Nailers.
8. Mark Recchi still making a contribution in Atlanta.
9. The Oilers have traded Dick Tarnstrom to Columbus for left winger Curtis Glencross. This is a good move for the Oilers, whose depth on the 3rd and 4th lines was limited to about 23 or 24 role players.
10. Pierre Lebrun suggests 10 trades that would help out both teams invovled.
11. Jim Kelley of Sportsnet airs his grievances with the NHL. A Festivus for the rest of us!
12. A profile on Michigan Tech of the WCHA.
13. Eric Duhatschek examines the all-important race for the basement in the NHL.
14. Former Wisconsin Badger Robbie Earl will make his debut against the Senators tonight.
15. Simon Gamache has officially left the Maple Leafs.
16. Scott Cullen of TSN with a complete list of NHL rumors.
17. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette breaks down the number of former first rounders by team.
18. The unofficial USHL power rankings.
19. Team Rbk takes down Team CCM in the USHL All-Star Game.
20. Fanhouse tells us that NCAA hockey is considering adopting overtime.
21. Check out this video of Marty Turco pimping Matt Niskanen's ride, a Pontiac Sunfire, of all things.
22. A note on the prospects that are coming out of US High School hockey.
23. A sure sign of the coming apocalypse, Edmonton and Calgary join forces to bid for the World Junior Championships.
24. Georges Laraque eyes a career in fitness training after his NHL career is over.
25. Another installment in the Hockey News feature on Roseau.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Kalamazoo wins a game in the IHL when they score with 0.1 seconds left on the clock. Big deal. I can score and cuddle in 0.1 seconds.
2. A decision is expected today on the fate of John Ferguson Jr. Update: JFJ fired.
3. Hockey Hearsay reports that Ottawa almost made a trade. Big news day in Ottawa. I almost won the lottery, too.
4. The weekly release from the USHL.
5. Evanka Osmak of Sportsnet does some deep thinking on the All-Star Game. Save yourself the trouble and instead spend 30 seconds checking out her pictures.
6. Just like Regina girls, this guy loves the wood.
7. The Coyotes have inked Ilya "The Human Alphabet" Bryzgalov to a 3 year extension.
8. Evgeni Malkin will replace Sidney Crosby at the All-Star Game in Atlanta.
9. In an effort to make up for yesterday's worst fight ever, please enjoy this goalie fight featuring Illegal Curve favorite, David Reekie. The video is shakier than bigfoot footage, but you get the idea.
10. This week's ECHL update looks at Peder Skinner of the Phoenix Roadrunners. I think Peder Skinner ranks right up there with Corey Pecker as worst hockey name.
11. The Junior Report says that Belleville is the team to beat in the OHL and notes that David Reekie has helped turn around Lincoln's season in the USHL.
12. Cherie Piper has rejoined the Canadian Women's Team after a year-long battle with knee problems.
13. Tyler Cuma of the Ottawa 67's is looking to make an impact at the CHL Prospects game.
14. The Everett Herald examines the consequences for the WHL should Canadian schools join the NCAA.
15. Here is a review on the new documentary following the Baie-Comeau Drakkar of the QMJHL.
16. Ken Campbell notes that internal divisions with the Leafs' braintrust may have cost them Fabian Brunstrom.
17. Good story on Jonathan Morrison, an official in the USHL.
18. Spector provides a list of NHL'ers who may be moved at the deadline.
19. The London Free Press with a story on Yvon Cournoyer. Also check out this video of The Roadrunner. You're welcome Mad Dog.
20. Things are getting testy in NYC.
21. The Hot Prospects list from the Hockey News.
22. Adam Proteau's vision of how the NHL should run.
23. An update on Montreal's prospects in the NCAA system from Hockey's Future.
24. Scott Wraight of SI gives some early predictions for the playoffs.
25. Finally, an article from the CBC not blaming W. for global warming, hangnails and papercuts.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

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

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. TJ Oshie pleads not guilty to disorderly conduct charges.
2. The IIHF has announced plans for a 12 team European Super League.
3. The weekly release from the USHL.
4. Bob McKenzie says that we can expect a resolution in the Cliff Fletcher - Maple Leafs saga within 24 hours. Much like the current season of America's Next Top Model, this situation can't end fast enough for me.
5. Sam Gagner and Alex Edler have been added to the Young Stars portion of the All-Star Game.
6. Scott Burnside wonders if Jaromir Jagr might be traded before the deadline rolls around.
7. The Dallas Stars have traded Junior Lessard to Tampa for Doug Jancevski. Thus ends Brian Burke's consecutive trades streak...
8. A smattering of blog links courtesy of Kukla's Korner.
9. The NHL's Junior Report gives us an in-depth look around the CHL and USHL.
10. Michael D'Orazio is featured in Draft Dandies.
11. Stamkos and Tavares will square off in the OHL All-Star game.
12. The NCAA has voted overwhelmingly in favor of allowing Canadian schools to compete in athletic conferences. I am sure some Canadian kids could challenge for top spot in the WCHA Peeing in an Elevator Cup.
13. Robin Bergman of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish has left the school to return to Cedar Rapids of the USHL.
14. Possibly the best intermission entertainment I have ever seen. Makes me want to wax my zamboni...
15. Faceoff.com's around the league prospectus.
16. Peter Forsberg may try and test his rehabilitated ankle with Team Sweden. I don't think this rumor has a leg to stand on. I think he is more likely to hop to the NHL.
17. Former NHL'er Jere Karalahti has been busted in a sting on a Finnish meth operation. Interesting news, even though I don't karalahti about drug dealers...
18. Another installment from Milan Lucic's blog.
19. In related news, Jaroslav Modry also has a blog. Man, they will let anyone have one of these.
20. Ken Campbell looks at the best clutch performers in the NHL. Interesting read. Not to toot my own horn, but I was voted best clutch performer at 7 consecutive Jr. High dances.
21. The Hockey News gives us updates on Alex Pieterangelo, Kyle Okposo and Aaron Ness.
22. Mike Chen gives us his list of phrases that he feels should be banned from the hockey lexicon. Somewhere in Colorado, Ryan Smyth just became mute.
23. Mike Komisarek and Chris Higgins: Busom Buddies from Long Island.
24. Craig Simpson gives us some details on what Mathieu Garon has meant to the Oilers.
25. In an effort to keep out Leaf Content high, Scott Morrison takes us out with some words of wisdom.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. TSN is reporting that Brent Sopel and his hair have agreed to a three year contract extension with the Hawks.
2. The Hawks also sent Magnus Johannson to the Panthers in a trade today.
3. Former Preds owner Craig Leipold has bought a majority stake of the Wild.
4. The AHL has named their Planet USA roster for the upcoming All-Star game.
5. In an exchange of players no one has ever heard of, the Ducks and Islanders swapped Matt Keith and Darryl Bootland.
6. Teppo Numminen will likely miss the rest of the season. If he only had a little heart...(too much?)
7. Tom Preissing wrote his senior thesis on the competitive balance in the NHL. Meanwhile, TJ Oshie uses elevators as toilets...
8. NHL.com asks former collegians what they would have done differently with their college career. Still no mention of getting arrested in an elevator...
9. John Kreiser looks at who is hot and cold in the NHL and gives a comprehensive run-down of each team's injury list.
10. Chris Pronger tops the list of Western Conference All-Star additions. I wonder if his wife will let him play?
11. Darren McCarty is attempting a comeback with the Flint Generals of the International Hockey League.
12. A look around the American Hockey League.
13. Jeff Gordon thinks its time for a regime change in Los Angeles. They had better find WMD's first, or the Democrats will never let them live it down.
14. Check out this brawl from the Russian Super League. The referees are sure Stalin before getting in there. I guess they are all about Lenin them go.
15. Interesting story about the new CBC drama, MVP.
16. Craig MacTavish has asked Ethan "Mr. Glass" Moreau to stop fighting.
17. Mike Toth with his thoughts on the Leafs.
18. On Frozen Blog is reporting that Alex Ovechkin has signed a contract extension with the Washington Capitals.
19. James Deacon of AOL Sports says Brendan Shanahan is the poster boy for the new NHL.
20. Brian Duff of the Hockey News says that Thomas Vanek was set up for failure.
21. Michael Farber wonders which goalie is the best in the NY area.
22. Damien Cox thinks that the Ducks' blueline is the best in the NHL. Nah, just a bunch of quacks. Someone stop me, please.
23. The Hockey News tells us all about Aaron Voros of the Minnesota Wild.
24. The latest in installment on the Roseau Rams.
25. The USHL has announced the rosters for the All-Star/Prospects game set for Green Bay, Wisconsin.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Team Canada goalie Steve Mason has been traded from London to Kitchener.
2. The NHL may have caught Rick DiPietro with illegal pads. I am sure there is a joke in here somewhere, but I don't have the time to think it through today.
3. Cal Nichols has resigned his position with EIG so that he can legally support Darryl Katz's bid to buy the Edmonton Oilers.
4. Pierre Lebrun feels that Canada's fascination with the World Juniors is misplaced. He lost me after he said he was named after Pierre Trudeau. Maybe this Pierre should also take a long walk in the snow.
5. Mark Bell has been sidelined with a head injury after a fight with Ryan Malone. Cue up the DUI checkstops, Bell will have some time off.
6. Who's Hot and Who's Not in the CHL.
7. The Globe and Mail annoints Jarome Iginla 1st half MVP.
8. Canada has been awarded the 2010 World Juniors after Switzerland pulls out. Tournament interuptus? Thats what she said? So many good ones to use here...
9. PS, Canada wins again, plays for Gold tomorrow.
10. Check out this video featuring James Wisniewski.
11. Check out the first paragraph of Taking Note, for what is likely the quote of the day.
12. Check out this new website. Lots of interesting content and links.
13. Fanhouse has the 1st Half Rookie Review.
14. A profile on current Omaha Lancer, Nico Sacchetti. What kind of a nickname is Sac? Was Scrotum already taken?
15. Atlanta and Carolina will swap broadcasters for the 2nd period of tonight's game. Should make for an interesting listen.
16. A look around the NHL with faceoff.com.
17. The canoe.ca blog answers the question about what team was the first to pull their goalie. This started a trend, as guys have been pulling their goalies ever since.
18. The latest installment in the Hockey News feature on the Roseau Rams.
19. The Score with a mid-season review and second half forecast.
20. The Hockey News blog with the 10 Ten moments from the Winter Classic.
21. The Hockey News profiles hot prospects from the World Junior tournament.
22. A look at U. Mass-Boston, playing in NCAA Div. III.
23. Simon Gamache would like to return to Switzerland.
24. Spector takes a look at some potential deals as the trade deadline approaches.
25. A look at the Lightning's prospects from Hockey's Future.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. An interesting article from the Stars' website chronicling the origin of NHL team names.
2. Pensblog does a pretty humorous run-down of last weekend's outdoor game.
3. TSN has the story about tomorrow's Canada-USA world junior semi-final.
4. The NCAA rankings from Inside College Hockey.
5. Ryan Smyth is out for 8 weeks with an ankle injury.
6. Jonathan Toews will not require surgery on his knee.
7. The Globe and Mail is reporting that Kyle Wellwood will be again be a healthy scratch.
8. Tim Wharsby notes that USA Hockey could use a little PR refresher, after making only 3 players and the coach available to the media.
9. The Senators have assigned Nick Foligno to Binghamton.
10. Sheldon Souray is injured again, but Ales Hemsky is back skating.
11. Peter Loubardias details that well kept secret that is the World Under-17 Championships.
12. The SJHL announces its All-Star rosters.
13. Jim Matheson answers reader questions.
14. The NHL celebrates Willie O'Ree's 50th Anniversary.
15. Musings from the desk of Michael Farber.
16. The Flyers have put Jim Dowd and Rory Fitzpatrick on waivers.
17. Hockey has taken root in Atlanta.
18. Alan Muir of SI notes some changes that Canada should make in preparation of tomorrow's semi-final.
19. The Kings have told Manchester Monarch Brian Boyle that he is moving back to center from defense as the team searches for production.
20. Bob Snow takes a look around the NCAA Divsion 1 hockey programs.
21. Wisconsin Badger teammates are now rivals at the World Junior championships.
22. Jonathan Bernier is not happy with Team Canada's coaching staff.
23. The weekly release from the USHL.
24. Teppo Numminen's heart seems to be a-ok.
25. Former Flames' goalie Jamie McLennan tells us about playing hockey in Japan.

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. In other suspension news, Hurricanes forward Craig Adams has received a 2-game break for hitting Alex Steen on the head with his stick.
2. No links available yet, but Minnesota radio stations are reporting that Kyle Okposo will leave the Gophers and join the Islanders following the World Junior tournament. Link now available.
3. Todd Bertuzzi felt like he was "expected" to fight the night he injured Steve Moore.
4. A look around the SJHL, with a focus on the Weyburn Red Wings.
5. Spector lays out the recent trade rumours.
6. A Q and A with IIHF President Rene Fasel.
7. Mike Brophy thinks (wishes?) that the NHL will never abandon the Instigator Rule.
8. Blogger David Staples offers up some good reading. Its Oiler heaving, but interesting all the same.
9. Canada's women's team has invited 21 chicks to its tryout camp.
10. Sean Avery paints his nails black and may be involved with Mary-Kate Olson.
11. A tourney that could only happen in Toronto, with players divided up by race in the name of multi-culturalism.
12. SI writer Alan Muir is taking the new Euro Super-league seriously.
13. Peter Schaefer is happy to be in Boston, and Milan Lucic has earned the nickname Gino.
14. The NHL continues its slide back to a clutch and grab league.
15. A collection of some funny (and some really stupid) hockey stories. (H/T Kukla)
16. Wednesday's Water Cooler Notes.
17. Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau uses movies to motivate his players.
18. Winkler Flyers forward Jared MacIntosh is now a published author.
19. An interesting look at the Asian Ice Hockey League.
20. A story on Trevor Smith of the Utah Grizzlies.
21. Fanhouse reacts to the Mike Brophy article on the Instigator Rule.
22. The NHL's Hot List.
23. A look at 10 Players exceeding expectations this season.
24. A profile on Lyon Messier of the Lincoln Stars.
25. Bruins rookie Vladamir Sobotka is getting noticed for his feistiness.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior.