Theodore excited to be in Washington

From Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post:

"When I saw things weren't progressing with Cristobal, I knew there was going to be an opening," said Théodore, whose name is pronounced Joe-Zay Thee-O-Dore. "So I didn't want to sign too quickly in Denver."

"This was my first choice," he added. "They [also] have the best player in the league."

Read the entire story here.

I still don't like this move by the Capitals. Theodore will be left out to dry in their offensive system, and I'm not sure he'd even do the trick with a defensive system in front of him.

Bruce Boudreau on Jose Theodore

From Katie Carrera of the Washington Post:

He's looking forward to having Jose Theodore, who's expected in Arlington sometime this week, join the team. "He had a great year in Colorado. If you look what he did, they had so many injuries to top-notch players and still made the playoffs and to still play as well as he did. I wish Cris the best of luck in the world... but he's on a different team now, so we're not worried about him."

Read more on the Capitals here.

I'm not so sure Boudreau will love Theodore when he stops 60 shots one night and then can't stop a beachball the next night. The Capitals are a fairly young squad, so the netminder's inconsistency could be an issue next season.

Capitals sign Theodore

From TSN:

Washington signs UFA G Jose Theodore to a 2 year deal (undisclosed)

Here is the link to the TSN report.

One question: Why? Theodore is a downgrade from Cristobal Huet and is not consistent enough for a young team. His inconsistency was better managed by the veteran Avs last season. I don't particularly understand this signing.

Theodore headed for free agency

From Adrian Dater of the Denver Post:

Talks between the Avalanche and Jose Theodore have broken down, and it now
appears the veteran goalie will test the NHL open market beginning Tuesday.

"I would say we are going to July 1st," Theodore's agent, Don Meehan, said
today. "There's a chance we could still negotiate with (the Avalanche) after
that, but right now it's looking like we're going to July 1st."

Read more about Theodore's contract situation here.

Dater has suspected this for some time, so this is no real surprise. I am not the biggest fan of Theodore and I think the Avs are probably better off going separate ways with the netminder. Whether they can find a suitable replacement is another story. However, if Theodore was looking for a long term contract, then suitable replacement or not, I think the Avs would be smart to let him walk.

Brunette's days with Avalanche may be numbered

From the Denver Post:

A sign that Andrew Brunette's days with the Avalanche might be over could be read into the fact there have been no talks between him and the team since the season ended.

Brunette can be an unrestricted free agent July 1, but an NHL source said the Avs have yet to contact the veteran forward regarding a new contract.

Brunette, 34, was the team's second-leading scorer last season, with 59 points (19 goals) in 82 games. He also was the second-leading scorer in the playoffs, with five goals and eight points in 10 games.

His regular-season scoring output was a 24-point regression, however, from the 2006-07 season. His age and contract requirements might have convinced the Avs to look to younger players, specifically winger David Jones, who played on the top two lines much of the final third of the season and playoffs.

Read more about the Avalanche here, including word that Jose Theodore is closer to a deal with the team.

Andrew Brunette has been one of the team's best forwards the last couple of seasons. The unheralded winger does great work along the boards, goes hard to the net and has good hands. While it may seem logical to allow him to leave via free agency and replace him with a younger player, if the organization chooses to do that, I believe the Avs will really miss his services next season. In any event, Brunette will not have a hard time finding work.

Theodore most likely to sign new deal with Avalanche

From Adrian Dater of the Denver Post:

I think it’s highly likely Jose Theodore signs a new deal with the Avs soon. I also think you might see Peter Budaj traded. The Avs believe Tyler Weiman can be a good NHL backup next year. Budaj probably would fetch a decent draft pick in a deal, and the Avs would like to beef up their draft profile some. As of now, they have no first-round pick this year, and only six overall in what is expected to be a good draft.

Here is the entire article from All Things Avs.

Dater is on the inside in Denver, so I'm sure this is true. He also notes that Joe Sakic is likely to return to the Avs, but it is no sure thing.

NHL Morning Papers: Playoff Teams (Friday Edition)

Here are the morning papers for the second round playoff match-ups:

Eastern Conference:

Montreal (1) versus Philadelphia (6):

• The Canadiens used the magic of their past and came back to defeat the Flyers 4-3 in overtime, writes Pat Hickey. Alexei Kovalev was the Habs' first star last night as he scored two huge goals for the club. They may have won, but the Canadiens were not the better team on the ice last night, opines Red Fisher. A couple of breaks went Montreal's way last night and that was the difference.
• Phil Sheridan of the Philadelphia Inquirer has the game report. "It was our third game in 4 nights and I was really, really happy with the way we responded here tonight," said Flyers coach John Stevens after last night's 4-3 overtime loss at Montreal. The Montreal fans are not making a good impression around the NHL. In injury news, it appears doubtful that Mike Knuble (hamstring) will return for this series.

Pittsburgh (2) versus New York Rangers (5):

• Dave Molinari has in depth analysis of the all facets of the game for the Penguins/Rangers series. Heeee's back, writes Shelly Anderson about Jaromir Jagr. The Penguins are going to make sure they protect Marc-Andre Fleury from the over-aggressive Rangers. Thinking back, the Penguins probably wouldn't be here without Ty Conklin.
• Larry Brooks suggests the Rangers do not try and match a checking line with Sidney Crosby's line. Brooks also breaks down both teams and gives his prediction for the series. The Rangers will surely be fresh for tonight's game, writes John Dellapina.

Western Conference:

Detroit (1) versus Colorado (6):

• Chris Osgood shut the door when he had to last night, writes Helene St. James. If you are a Detroit fan, there was a lot to like about Game 1. Last night's game was a good one, but it did not really bring back memories of the late 90's. Meanwhile, Johan Franzen continues to impress.
• Terry Frei takes a closer look at Joel Quenville's line-up changes last night. Jose Theodore clearly wasn't sharp last night, writes Woody Paige. Peter Forsberg pulled his groin during the game-day skate and that is why he did not suit up last night.

San Jose (2) versus Dallas (5):

• Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News likes the Sharks in 6. Sharks winger Ryane Clowe explains how to deal with Steve Ott. Here are the results of the Sharks/Stars games from the regular season. Meantime, the Sharks brass is hoping that Milan Michalek regains his scoring touch this series.
• Steve Ott is apparently giving Sean Avery a run for his money in the pest of the year contest. This series sure won't lack emotion, writes Mike Heika. Marty Turco is a changed goalie from the one earlier in his career, writes Tim Cowlishaw. Here is a preview of tonight's Game 1.

I am not able to post the non-playoff team morning papers today. They will return bright and early tomorrow morning.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Email any thoughts, ideas or suggestions to illegalcurve@gmail.com

NHL Morning Papers: Playoff Teams (Friday Edition)

Here are the morning papers for the Western Conference playoff match ups:


Detroit versus Nashville:

• Goaltending switch aside, the Red Wings need to focus on controlling the puck more and winning draws, writes Helene St. James. In between the pipes, Dominik Hasek does not seem to moping around after being benched for tonight's Game 5. Meanwhile, Drew Sharp of the Detroit Free Press is not a fan of rotating goalies. The Predators have never won a road playoff game, so the Wings are hoping to continue that streak tonight at the Joe.
• The Predators know that if they want to win this series, they will need to win at least one road game, writes John Glennon. The Predators' attitude towards scoring hasn't changed with Chris Osgood being named starter.

San Jose versus Calgary:

• Jonathan Cheechoo has given the Sharks a huge boost the past two games, writes Mark Purdy. Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News was impressed with the Flames' determination last night. (Writer's note: If you are playing a must-win playoff game and you could choose any player in the world, how could you not choose Jarome Iginla right now? He's been that good.) It looks like Kyle McLaren may be lost to the Sharks for Game 6 with a knee injury. (Writer's note: The guys at Battle of California get their wish!)
• "Now we have to win two games in a row and we believe we can do it," said Flames captain Jarome Iginla after last night's tough 4-3 loss at San Jose. The Flames played well but their defenseman made key mistakes and that is why they are heading back to Calgary down 3-2. Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun bluntly states that the Flames' secondary scoring just hasn't been there.

Minnesota versus Colorado:

• Jose Theodore is the main reason the Wild is down 3-2 in the series going back to Colorado, writes Michael Russo. Has anyone seen Marian Gaborik? The slick Slovak has disappeared since the playoffs began, writes Jim Souhan. The Wild is hoping to get a lead in Game 6 as they know it is far easier to play from ahead using their style.
• Adrian Dater predicted the Wild would win Game 5, so it is fair to say Jose Theodore single-handedly spoiled his prediction. Woody Paige agrees that Theodore is the reason the Avalanche is up 3-2. Shockingly Terry Frei makes it a trifecta of Theodore won Game 5 articles.

Anaheim versus Dallas:

• The Ducks took a couple bad penalties and made some inopportune mistakes and that is why they find themselves down 3-1 to Dallas heading back to the Honda Center. The Ducks have to play more simple hockey or they'll be golfing in a week. Are the Ducks going to start Jonas Hiller in Game 5?
• The Stars are getting terrific contributions from their young players, writes Brandon George. Marty Turco has been one of the main reasons that the Ducks have not been able to sustain forechecking pressure. Turco was terrific last night, writes J.J. Taylor.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Email any thoughts, ideas or suggestions to illegalcurve@gmail.com

News You Can Use Late in the Day

1. Wild defenseman Kurtis Foster had surgery to repair a broken leg suffered in last night's game versus San Jose. This is sure to re-open the touch icing debate.
2. Darren Dreger fires the opening salvo in the debate.
3. Mike Toth with his thoughts on a few subjects.
4. Ian Mendes does his best to refute the claim that the Western Conference is stronger.
5. A preview of the CHL playoff series'.
6. Rob Hennigar is the CIS Men's Hockey Player of the Year.
7. Craig Hartsburg will not be behind the bench when Team Canada takes the ice at next year's World Juniors.
8. Adam Proteau proposes a term limit for the NHL's chief disciplinarian.
9. Taking Note provides us with a list of the possible top selections in the upcoming WHL draft.
10. The Hockey News points to the extra tight Northwest division as proof that the schedule works.
11. Is the NHL overlooking the CIS as a potential talent pool?
12. Damien Cox updates the Edmonton-Anaheim feud.
13. Terry Frei checks out the suddenly tight Northwest.
14. Andrew Ference (deservedly) takes a lot of heat for being an NHL environmentalist. Dirty hippy.
15. A look back at the '83-'84 Tulsa Oilers.
16. No need to worry about John Tavares.
17. The Roseau Rams are back playing shinny.
18. Expect a donnybrook whenever the "Murrays" meet.
19. FauxRumours with an interesting post on teams that might be mailing it in and teams that are fighting til the end.
20. Is Jose Theodore's resurgence related to him needing a new contract?
21. The Panthers, and Jacques Martin, are desperate for the playoffs.
22. A look back at the Good Friday brawl between the Habs and Nordiques.
23. A fantasy hockey inspired look at Brooks Laich, Brett McLean and Jaroslav Halak.
24. What David Staples would do if he was King of the Oilers. Please check out the classic response of sportswriter Robin Brownlee when questioned about the blogosphere's fascination with statistics.
25. Wes Goldstein notes that more than a few coaches are feeling the need to win.

Also, whatever happened to Harry York?

Fantasy Watch: Goalie Starts

Jan 21st - 27th

Anaheim Ducks (2) – Expect Giguere to start both games in this short week.

Atlanta Thrashers (2) – Lehtonen is healthy again and should get both starts this week.

Boston Bruins (2) – Look for Thomas to receive both starts this week.

Buffalo Sabres (2) – Miller's last win was on December 22nd, so the Sabres may turn to Thibault for one start this week.

Carolina Hurricanes (2) – Ward should be between the pipes for both games this week.

Calgary Flames (1) – CuJo will need some time to get into game shape before he gives Kiprusoff a much needed rest.

Chicago Blackhawks (2) – After two straight wins with Lalime in net, the Blawkhawks should give him the nod for both games this week.

Columbus Blue Jackets (2) – Since returning from injury, Leclaire has won his past four starts.

Colorado Avalanche (2) – Theodore has gained full control of the #1 spot and should start both games this week.

Dallas Stars (2) – Look for Turco to start both games this week.

Detroit Red Wings (2) – Expect a split between Hasek and Osgood for these games.

Edmonton Oilers (2) – Roloson had his first start this month, giving up four goals in an OT loss Expect the Oilers to return to Garon for the next two games.

Florida Panthers (2) – Vokoun has been mediocre this season but should get both starts this week.

Los Angeles Kings (2) – LaBarbera has won his last three games and should receive both starts this week.

Minnesota Wild (2) – Harding missed his last start with a groin injury, so until he returns Backstrom will carry the load.

Montreal Canadiens (2) – Expect Huet to start both games this week.

Nashville Predators (3) – Mason hasn't been great lately and should yield one start to Ellis.

New Jersey Devils (2) – Brodeur should be in net for both games this week.

New York Islanders (3) – DiPietro has had a rough month thus far, but should receive all three starts this week.

New York Rangers (2) – Expect Lundqvist to start both games this week.

Ottawa Senators (2) – Look for Emery and Gerber to split the starts this week.

Philadelphia Flyers (2) – Nittymaki has gotten the bulk of the starts this month and should receive both this week.

Phoenix Coyotes (2) – Look for Bryzgalov to start both games this week.

Pittsburgh Penguins (2) – Conklin has been fantastic while Fleury has been sidelined and should get both starts this week.

San Jose Sharks (2) – Look for Nabokov to shake his losing streak this week.

St. Louis Blues (3) – Legace is currently day-to-day with a forearm injury, making Toivonen the #1 guy.

Tampa Bay Lightining (2) – Ramo has struggled this season and will continue to split starts with Holmqvist until he can prove to be a reliable starter.

Toronto Maple Leafs (2) – Toskala has won his last two games and should get both starts this week.

Vancouver Canucks (2) – Luongo should receive both starts this week.

Washington Capitals (3) – With back-to-back games, expect Johnson to steal a start.


For Illegal Curve, I'm Jonny Remis