Tonights Linkage

In the news tonight

• Steve Downie, suspended for 20 games in the NHL, was sent down to the AHL's Philadelphia Phantoms
• With the success of the Kings/Ducks game in London. Sidney Crosby may be headed to Prague next year
• ESPN's Scott Burnside gives his review of the NHL's visit to London
• While Ray Emery is not feeling confident about his surgically repaired wrist in NHL competition, Martin Gerber has stepped in and feeling more comfortable every day
• 38 year old Sergei Fedorov will be the no. 1 centre for the Blue Jackets. Remember when this guy was winning Hart Trophies and was one of the best players in the world?
  
• Sports Illustrated's Allan Muir wants to keep the NHL in Europe a once a year event
• USA Today's Kevin Allen gives 10 reasons why the Penguins will win the Stanley Cup

EURO CURVE

Euro Curve takes a daily look at the latest international hockey news.

- Can't get enough Alexei Cherepanov? Russianprospects.com provides a detailed scouting analysis of the New York Rangers 2007 1st Round draft pick during his most recent game for Avangard (Omsk). The author of the article Alessandro Seren Rosso says the talented winger looked sluggish but cautioned that Cherepanov is still recovering from an injury suffered during the recent Super Series against Canada.

- New Jersey Devils Prospect Nicklas Bergfors may start the season with the Lowell Devils of the American Hockey League. The 20-year-old Swede had 2 points in 9 games during the 2007 World Junior Championships in Leksand, Sweden. He spent most of the 2006'07 season in the AHL, his second, scoring 13 goals and 19 assists in 60 games played.

- Josef Boumedienne may start the season with the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League but will surely get a second look from the Washington Capitals if any of their current defensemen fail or go down with injury. Boumedienne had 2 goals and 2 assists in 18 games last season with Kärpät of the SM-Liiga. He last played in the NHL with the Washington Capitals during the 2003'04 season. Boumedienne was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1996 (4/96).

- The Sports Network and Pittsburgh Tribune are reporting on the possibility of an NHL regular season game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning being hosted by the city of Prague, Czech Republic to start the 2008'09 season. The Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings opened the 2007'08 season in London, England over the weekend, playing two regular season games at the 02 Arena.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

The HD Corner - Season Opener in London

Thoughts from the O2 Arena in London (aka my TV in my living room)...

The 07-08 hockey seaon is now officially upon us. Although it was a bit of an early wake up Saturday morning (11am central) to catch the first game from London, it was still thoroughly enjoyable. As usual, CBC's coverage was second to none with its crisp HD feed, along with the always solid Jim Hughson manning the mike. Although he looooooves the Canucks, which is always quite evident on his Sporstnet Pacific broadcasts, Hughson always brings his best effort to the table (I think it has something to with a comfort level from all the years being the play-by-play on EA Sport's NHL series). Greg Millen is OK too, just sometimes really annoying as I've eluded to in previous posts. After a half hour delay due to poor lighting at the O2 Arena, and Ron MacLean, Craig Simpson, and Cassy Campbell painfully killing time, the game finally got underway without a hitch.

After searching around for Sunday's game, and nearly having a conniption that it possibly wasn't being shown, I finally discovered it being broadcast on the NHL Network. Although the sound was brutal and the standard-def picture looked so bad that I thought my contacts were in backwards, strategically, it was a good idea to air the second game on the NHL Network. There is a free preview of the NHL Network until November for digital subscribers, and it's a great way to create some hype and viewership. The only drawback is that it obviously doesn't have the same reach as CBC, but it still seems like a great plan to create urgency for viewers to order the channel for the season if people like what they see. And how could they not - the icing on the cake is that Paul Rominuk and Gary Green were at the helm for the game! Yes! The hockey Gods have spoken.

Morning Musings

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

On to the morning papers:

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

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Morning Musings: Let the games begin

It seems like only yesterday that that Ducks defeated the Sens in game five of the Stanley Cup Finals to become the 2006/07 champions. Somehow, the off-season is already complete and this afternoon (at 11:00 CST) the L.A. Kings take on the Anaheim Ducks overseas in London. With much excitement around the league it looks like 2007/08 will be a fascinating season.

On to the morning papers:

• With regards to the Steve Downie suspension, the NHL got it exactly right this time writes Erik Duhatschek of the Globe & Mail.
• Here is a list, from the aforementioned Duhatschek, of the top 200 players to draft for you poolies out there.
• If Nikolai Zherdev is not in the Blue Jackets' top-six forward lines, it appears he will request a trade out of Columbus. Meanwhile, the Jackets were defeated by the Hurricanes 2-1 in exhibition action on Friday night. The game didn't lack physicality writes Lorenzo Perez of the News Observer.
• With the preseason coming to a close, Stars' coach Dave Tippett has some concerns about the Stars game but he is not going to put some of his injured players in the lineup to make the team more consistent heading into the season.
• Kyle Quincey has a broken hand and will be out of the lineup at least two weeks writes George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press. Perhaps the Wings already miss Quincy's defensive presence as they were defeated 6-4 by the Leafs last night.
• The Oilers have yet to name a captain and coach Craig MacTavish says he would prefer to avoid having alternating captains throughout the season; Derek Van Diest of the Edmonton Sun has the story.
• The Oilers only have one preseason game remaining but don't expect their veterans in the lineup for tonight's contest says Craig MacTavish.
• The Panthers completed their exhibition schedule last night with a 1-0 loss to the Thrashers.
• The fact that both Kings/Ducks games in London have sold out is a pleasant surprise for all involved.
• Michael Russo of the Star Tribune examines the possibility of the Wild signing youngster James Sheppard to an NHL contract prior to the start of the season.
• Patrice Brisebois has hardly even practiced but that hasn't stopped coach Guy Carbonneau from pairing up his former teammate with Roman Hamrlik to form the team's number two defense pairing.
• Greg Zanon has proven himself to the Predators' brass and will be a vital part of the team's top six defense. In other Predators' news, Dan Ellis has won the team's backup goaltending job to start the season.
• As Bridget Wentworth of the Newark Star-Ledger tells us, Brent Sutter is not afraid to shake things up at Devils' camp; the new coach has split up the checking combination of John Madden and Jay Pandolfo. "I don't like the like the idea of having a checking line that's just your checking line," Sutter told the New York Post on Friday.
• With Jaromir Jagr and Sean Avery sitting out last night's exhibition game versus the Islanders, the Rangers will probably not be able to experiment with their new line combinations before the regular season begins next week.
• It wouldn't be MSG without drama and yesterday was no exception as MSG filed suit against the NHL on Friday afternoon.
• Brendan Shanahan and Scott Gomez are starting to develop some good chemistry writes Steve Zipay of New York Newsday.
• Bruce Garrioch explains where both sides are at in the Dany Heatley contract negotiations in this morning's Ottawa Sun.
• Flyers' GM Paul Holmgren thinks the Steve Downie 20-game suspension was a little bit long, but respects the decision of Colin Campbell. (Writer's note: I think Holmgren and Nick Kypreos are the only people who believe this suspension is excessive.)
• Coyotes' forward Steven Reinprecht says there is more enthusiasm and energy around the team this season with so many youngsters on the roster.
• Colby Armstrong will try not to beat himself up so much if he struggles to score goals early on in the season writes Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Meanwhile, the Pens were defeated by the Sabres 6-5 in exhibition action on Friday night.
• Steve Bernier is fitter than he was last season at training camp writes David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News.
• Brad Boyes had two goals and an assist in the Blues' 4-2 victory over the Wild in exhibition action on Friday night.
• Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune details what the Lightning management and coaching staff bases their roster decisions on.
• Paul Maurice says the Leafs need better performances from their goaltenders writes Mark Zwolinksi of the Toronto Star.
• Bill Lankhoff of the Toronto Sun has the story of Chad Kilger's long road to success.
• Curtis Sanford was sensational in his team's 3-2 victory over the Flames on Friday night.
• Tarik El-Bashir documents the nervous times of Capitals' youngster David Steckel in his quest to make the NHL roster.
• The Ducks have an opening day salary cap hit of $45.8 million writes Dan Wood of the Orange Country Register.
• Kari Lehtonen is looking sharp heading into the season writes Craig Custance of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
• Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune tells us that coach Denis Savard doesn't think all of his players have turned the switch on yet.
• Zdeno Chara doesn't want to answer questions about his shoulder writes Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald.
• Flames' players approve of the length of Steve Downie's suspension writes Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

Morning Musings: My late take on the McAmmond hit

I know this issue has been discussed ad nausem for the last couple of days, but here are my quick two cents. Many around the game believe the pressure is on the NHL and Colin Campbell to make an example of Steve Downie and crackdown on head shots. I, however, somewhat disagree with this sentiment. The pressure in this instance, lies with the NHLPA. If the NHL gives a twenty game suspension to Steve Downie will things really change? Will players suddenly stop running at opposing players with reckless abandon? This writer doesn't believe so. Therefore, the pressure should be on the NHLPA to organize meetings and information sessions between all NHL players to discuss, not only, the repercussions of giving and receiving a head-shot but the lack of mutual respect in the game today. For me, that is the main issue. NHL players no longer have as much respect for one another as they once did. How can the NHL as a governing body encourage an increase in on-ice respect? In short, it can't. This is where the NHLPA comes in. It is for situations like this one that the PA was created. The leadership (however weak it is right now) has to gather the players together and preach the virtues of respectfully competing with your opponents without crossing the line. Without this message being delivered, the hits will keep on coming and, one day, a player may never get up from a brutal on-ice collision.

On to the morning papers:

• The NHLPA is beginning to consider names for a new union leader writes Dave Shoalts of the Globe & Mail.
• Stephen Brunt of the Globe & Mail examines the mixed messages that seem to be inherent in hockey in the wake of the Downie hit.
• Kevin Allen of the USA Today has a neat piece about what to watch for entering the 2007/08 NHL season.
• It appears that Marc Staal is going to make the Rangers writes John Dellapina of the New York Daily News.
• It looks like Islanders' forward Chris Simon will be held out of tonight's exhibition rematch with the Rangers writes Greg Logan of Newsday.
• According to coach John Paddock, Wade Redden and Mike Fisher looked alright on Thursday to be able to resume playing.
• Dean McAmmond is going to choose to believe Steve Downie's apology was sincere; Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun has the story.
• If a deal isn't reached on a new contract for Dany Heatley by the Sens' first regular season game, the two-time 50 goal scorer wants negotiations suspended until season's end.
• With a rash of injuries at Flyers' camp, Jim Dowd may indeed find himself on the opening day roster writes Tim Pannacio of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
• The Coyotes were defeated by the Stars 3-2 in a shootout on Thursday.
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette explains that the Penguins' coaching staff wants to see Adam Hall lineup at center prior to deciding whether he will make the club or not.
• Apparently Joe Pavelski hasn't been reading Illegal Curve's rants about how meaningless the NHL preseason is, and is excited to see his name atop the exhibition scoring leaders.
• Jay McKee will be starting the season on the sidelines for the second consecutive season in St. Louis writes Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
• As Lightning coach John Tortorella explains, team toughness is not all about fighting.
• Leafs' coach Paul Maurice will not make a decision on who his starting goalie will be until after Saturday's exhibition game writes Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star. Doug Wilson, GM of the Sharks, believes Leaf fans need to relax about the play of Vesa Toskala; "He will be very good. You just watch," Wilson told the Toronto Sun.
• Good friends Matt Cooke and Brendan Morrison have a knack for knowing where each other are going to be on the ice writes Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province.
• NHL ironman Brendan Morrison has been banged up a bit at training camp and his consecutive games played streak may be in doubt; Elliot Pap of the Vancouver Sun has the story.
• Markus Naslund lined up with the Sedin brothers on Thursday but there are no guarantees that he will lineup in that slot to start the season.
• Craig Custance of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution provides an inside look at the excitement of the four youngsters who cracked the opening day Thrashers' lineup.
• After injuring his shoulder early in the preseason, Bruins' defenseman Zdeno Chara is expected to be back in the lineup for the team's first regular season game next week. Meanwhile, expectations are high for Bruins' off-season acquisition Peter Schaefer, who will see himself lining up beside Marc Savard on the team's top scoring line.
• Even without playing a preseason game, Lindy Ruff seems confident that Tim Connolly will be ready for the Sabres' first regular season game a week today.
• Didn't take that long did it? Flames' coach Mike Keenan finally loses it on his team for its lack of work ethic. (Writer's note: A big deal is always made of Keenan getting angry, however, after watching the Flames float through much of last season, including the playoffs, I think this is exactly what this group of players needs.)
• Jason Karmonos, son of Canes' owner Peter Karmonos, announced his resignation for the organization on Thursday citing personal reasons.
• Luke Decock provides notes from around Canes' camp in this morning's News Observer.
• The Blackhawks players were given the day off on Thursday but Chicago GM Dale Tallon remained hard at work claiming Karel Pilar off waivers from the Atlanta Thrashers.
• As Terry Frei of the Denver Post tells us, Jose Theodore made his first appearance of the season at Avs' practice on Thursday.
• The Blue Jackets will be cutting down their roster by Sunday or Monday writes Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch. Meanwhile, Steve Mason, the Jackets' best player during its preseason contest versus Carolina on Thursday night will almost surely be sent back to London of the OHL in the next few days.
• Marty Turco rescues the struggling Stars and it's not even the regular season yet!
• Goaltender Jimmy Howard has been a pleasant surprise for Mike Babcock at Red Wings' camp writes George Sipple in this morning's Detroit Free Press.
• Joanne Ireland informs us that the Oilers spent all of Thursday practicing their powerplay in this morning's Edmonton Journal. The off-season additions of Sheldon Souray and Joni Pitkanen should increase the team's poweplay efficiency.
• Anthony Stewart, Kamil Kreps and Rob Globke are the three players still in camp fighting for the last remaining forward spot in Florida.
• Jonathan Bernier has impressed many at Kings' camp which is why the team was able to release Dan Cloutier.
• Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette explains that Cristobal Huet is undoubtedly the number one netminder for the Habs heading into the season. It looks like Huet is already in top form as he led the Canadiens to a 3-2 victory over the Bruins on Thursday night.
• Jacques Lemaire is going to give all of his youngsters who are fighting for a roster spot a chance to strut their stuff tonight versus St. Louis.
• The Predators are always chasing the Red Wings in the standings and, as John Glennon writes in this morning's Tennessean, this season appears no different.
• There is unfortunate news out of Devils' camp that Colin White has sustained damage to his right eye and specialists are still trying to determine the extent of it. Suffice to say that White is out of the lineup indefinitely.
• In other news at Devils' camp, coach Brent Sutter is no rush to hand out the captaincy.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

EURO CURVE

Euro Curve takes a daily look at the latest international hockey news.

Writers Note: I apologize for not writing a blog yesterday but a sore throat kept me off the website and in bed. I promise today's blog will be as good as a Janne Niinimaa slapshot ( Currently playing with HC Davos of Swiss League).

- Yutaka Fukufuji, the first Japanese born player to ever play in the NHL, is trying to stick with the AHL's Manitoba Moose as one of the teams starting goaltenders. Unfortunately for Fukufuji, 25, he is in tough against incumbent Drew MacIntyre, and Boston College standout Cory Schneider. Fukufuji, an 8th round draft pick of the Los Angeles Kings in 2004, is believed to be headed for the East Coast Hockey League.

- The Anaheim Ducks were parading the Stanley Cup around London Wednesday, taking in some sights and even attending a Premier League football ( not soccer!) game. The Ducks face the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday, September 29 to kick off the NHL's regular season schedule. The two teams meet again Sunday. Both games will be played at the new 02 Arena, a 20,000-seat venue which will also host an NFL game between the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants in October.

- New York Rangers Draft Pick Alexei Cherepanov (2007, 1/17) scored his first goal of the season last night for Avangard (Omsk) as the Russian Super League team beat VITYAZ (Chekhov) 7-5. Cherepanov was voted the games second star. Cherepanov, who was expected to be Russia's best player in the recent Under-20 Super Series tournament against Canada, had been sidelined with an injury for most of the tournament. Cherepanov, widely considered one of the best prospects in the Super League, had 18 goals and 11 assists in 46 games for Avangard Omsk last season.

- Here's a look at the top scorers in Russia's top league:

RUSSIAN SUPER LEAGUE STATISTICS ( courtesy of www.rushockey.com)

EARLY REGULAR SEASON LEADERS ( Points)

# Player Team Pos G P(G+A)
1 Alexanderov Viktor Metallurg Nk F 9 12 (7 + 5)
2 Mihaylov Egor Metallurg Nk F 9 11 (5 + 6)
3 Mozyakin Sergey Khimik F 9 10 (7 + 3)
4 Morozov Alexei Ak Bars F 9 10 (4 + 6)
5 Antipov Vladimir Salavat Yulaev F 8 10 (2 + 8)
6 Saprikin Oleg CSKA F 9 9 (7 + 2)
7 Bashkirov Andrei HC MVD F 9 9 (5 + 4)
8 Yuhansson Andreas SKA F 9 9 (5 + 4)
9 Mihnov Alexei Lokomotiv F 9 9 (4 + 5)
10 Pokotilo Vadim Amur F 9 8 (6 + 2)
11 Dobrishkin Yuri Torpedo F 8 8 (5 + 3)
12 Antonenko Oleg HC MVD F 9 8 (5 + 3)
13 Haritonov Alexander Dynamo F 9 8 (5 + 3)
14 Badyukov Alexei Dynamo C 9 8 (4 + 4)
15 Korolyuk Alexander Vityaz F 9 8 (3 + 5)
16 Sushinsky Maxim SKA F 9 8 (3 + 5)
17 Yachmenev Vitaly Dynamo F 9 8 (3 + 5)
18 Yashin Alexei Lokomotiv C 9 8 (2 + 6)
19 Chupin Alexei Dynamo C 9 8 (2 + 6)
20 Leschev Albert Khimik C 9 8 (2 + 6)

For Illegal Curve, I'm Ezra Ginsburg.

About the Writer: Ezra Ginsburg made a name for himself on the local hockey scene in 1998, when, at the tender age of 16, he held The First Annual Ezzy's Whiz Bang Hockey Draft, held at Rightway Sports on Corydon Avenue. The pool featured 16 teams and introduced an interesting draft format, which allowed players to be picked up off of the free agent market through a simple bidding process. The winner of the pool that year was Adam Sheps, but it was Ezra and friend Aaron Bernstein's acquisition of Petr Nedved which showed a knack for insider knowledge of European players. In 98'99, Nedved was acquired by the New York Rangers 26 games into the season after he had spent the last year playing for Sparta Praha of the Czech Extra League. Ginsburg and Bernstein picked up Nedved for 30 dollars ( one of the most lucrative fantasy offer sheets in history at the time) and rode his 47 points in 56 games to a respectable second place finish.

Tonights Linkage

Tonights Links

• The Senators talks with Dany Heatley hit a speedbump on Thursday as negociations took place for five hours but a deal could not be reached. TSN reports that Heatley is seeking $8.5 million while the Senators want to pay $7 million similar to Joe Thornton and Jarome Iginla. Somewhere Eugene Melnyk is cursing Daniel Brieres $10 million salary.
• Todd Bertuzzi is feeling lighter and younger skating with the Ducks. He is fitting in nicely with the Ducks and wants to repay his father...I mean General Manager Brian Burke for believing in him.
  
• Eric Duhatchek also wonders if the RBK Edge jerseys will go the way of the synthetic basketball
• Dean McAmmond accepts Steve Downies phone call apology.
  
• The Score lists 10 players not named Sidney Crosby to keep your eye on this upcoming season
• Teppo Numminen was released from the hospital. I wish the former Winnipeg Jet a speedy recovery, and hope to see him playing for the Sabres later this year.
• Apparently, Joffrey Lupul's wrist isn't broken. Unfortunately, their diagnosis was correct for Scottie Upshall and RJ Umberger who will miss up to six, and two weeks respectively.
• Donna Spencer wonders if Mike Keenan is a right fit for the Calgary Flames
• St. Louis Blues defenseman Jay McKee who is in the second year of a four year $16 million deal, will be out 4-6 weeks with a fractured right foot.
• Brendan Morrison could end his consecutive games played streak (512) with an injured wrist
  
• Sports Illustrated gives their Atlantic Division previews and lists the Rangers as the team to beat.

Prospect Pulse: Jon Blum

Jon Blum a is a young hockey player out of the Hockey Capital of the United States - California. Blum was taken in the 1st round, 23rd overall by the Preds. Blum had been playing for the Vancouver Giants in the WHL since the 2005-2006 season and has gotten progressively better. He manned the blue line for the Giants in their championship run at the Memorial Cup in 2007.

This 6'0 160 lbs defenseman is a mobile puck mover who has a nose for points. In his second year he finished 7th among all WHL defensemen and 1st among 2007 draft-eligible defensemen with 51 points. He finished the 72 game schedule with an unheralded plus 37.

Blum has also been seen as a "knock me down and I will get back up" kind of person. He has faced various adversity in his life, from the death of his twin sister, to watching his mother battle cancer. This kid has grit and determination.

On the downside, Blum will have to bulk up in order to be considered a real presence at the blue line.

Blum in all liklihood will not play for the Predators this upcoming season but in the next few years, be sure to watch for him manning the blue alongside his former Giants D partner Cody Franson.

FROZEN ASSETS

AVOIDING FRAUDULENT SPORTSBOOKS AND A PREVIEW OF NHL DIVISION BETTING




Last week, I presented my case as to why making futures wagers are an optimal style of wagering for the responsible casual sports bettor. I also went over some notable futures odds from the 2006-2007 NHL season. This week’s Frozen Assets will first offer strategies to protect yourself from fraudulent sportsbooks and then examine the odds for the NHL divisions futures market.

The motto of The Greek, one of the most well respected sportsbooks in the offshore wagering industry is “sweat the game, not the payout”. This motto was created in response to alleviate the common and reasonable fear that the money we send to degenerate strangers in foreign countries for the purpose of gambling will be returned to us along with our profits if we are fortunate enough to win. Futures bettors must play at multiple sportsbooks, and we must carefully research each one before choosing to deposit our money there.

The primary reason a person is able to successfully wager on the futures market is because of a lack of standardization in market odds. For example, sportsbook A could have Anaheim to win the Stanley Cup at odds of 7/1 while sportsbook B could have Anaheim to win the Stanley Cup at odds of 10/1. Thus wagering on futures requires “line shopping” at multiple sportsbooks. How do we know whether the sportsbook offering Anaheim at 10/1 is reputable?

Once you have found favorable odds at a sportsbook, your next step must be to research that sportsbook. This can be done easily at Sportsbook Review, a relatively independent website dedicated to helping the player avoid fraudulent sportsbooks. They have ratings of over 750 sportsbooks in their Sportsbook Review Rating Guide. They also offer other useful features including a Blacklist and a Recommended List. I recommend not playing with any sportsbooks having a rating of D+ or lower.

If a Sportsbook is not rated by Sportsbook Review, visit their Scam Alert section or their New Player’s Guide for tips on how to identify a fraudulent sportsbook. Remember, it doesn’t matter how much money you win until the cheque from the sportsbook is in your hand. Hopefully this is a lesson you do not have to learn the hard way.

The worst part about getting burned by a fraudulent sportsbook is that you don’t find out you are being scammed until after you win. It is only after you hit your long-shot and have thousands of dollars in your account that you realize the sportsbook you are playing at has no intention of paying you. By researching the sportsbook before sending them money, you are minimizing the risk to your bankroll and potentially saving yourself a Zdeno Chara sized headache.

Now that I’ve lectured you on the importance of being a responsible bettor that always researches the sportsbooks you play at before giving them money, let’s take a look at the NHL divisions market and see who is offering the best odds on each team to win their respective divisions…

In the world of online wagering, hockey is not a sport that is heavily wagered on. Unlike baseball, basketball, and football, division betting (in previous years) on hockey ends when the season starts. Also, division betting on hockey is only offered at a handful of books. The books I was able to find offering NHL division betting are: 5Dimes, Betsafe, Betsson, Gamebookers, Skybet, Stan James and Unibet.

Remember, we are not betting on who we think is going to win the division, we are looking for value. Let’s start with the Western Conference…

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Central Division

.........................Average Odds ..... Best Odds..... Site......................... Site Rating


Detroit ............... -230 ......................-163 ...........Skybet ...........................B+

Nashville ........... +337..................... +600 ......... Betsafe ....................... (NR)

St. Louis .............+1043................... +1200........ Skybet........................... B+

Columbus ......... +2063 .................. +2500........ Skybet........................... B+

Chicago ............. +2113..................... +2800...... .Skybet........................... B+


Play: Detroit -163

For the last two years, Detroit and Nashville have beat up on St. Louis, Columbus, and Chicago. This year it looks like Detroit will beat up on Nashville, St. Louis, Columbus, and Chicago. Nashville is a tempting play at +600, and although I hate laying chalk (taking a favorite at odds of less than even money) on a futures bet, Detroit is the clear favorite to win the division and could run away with the Division early. This two unit investment could pay out by December.



Northwest Division

.........................Average Odds.....Best Odds.....Site......................... Site Rating


Colorado .......... +251.................... +275 ...........Stan James....................B

Vancouver......... +259................... +320 ...........Betsafe........................ (NR)

Calgary.............. +261 .................. +285.............Betsson ......................... B-

Minnesota .........+341................... +420 ...........Betsafe .........................(NR)

Edmonton ........ +1383................ +2200...........Skybet............................ B+

Play: Pass

The Northwest division is a toss up between Colorado, Calgary, Vancouver, and probably Minnesota. Looking at the available odds, nothing jumps out as having value. If you put a pair of Thermablades to my throat and asked me to pick a team, I would take the Canucks at +320, but I wouldn’t put any of my hard earned student loan money on it.



Pacific Division

.........................Average Odds..... Best Odds..... Site......................... Site Rating


Anaheim ...........+111 ....................+125 ..............Skybet .................... B+

San Jose ...........+159.....................+200..............Gamebookers........ B-

Dallas ...............+469 .................. +600..............Betsson ...................B-

Los Angeles .....+1450................. +2000............Stan James............. B

Phoenix ............+2625..................+3300............Gamebookers.........B-

Play: San Jose +200

With Scott Niedermayer’s return to Anaheim uncertain and San Jose having basically the same team as last year (minus Bill Guerin but with a young, improving defense), I see no reason why they cannot match the Ducks stride for stride. At +200, there is just enough value to make it a one unit play. Also, though I wouldn’t take them to win the division, does anyone else get the sense the Los Angeles Kings will sneak into the playoffs this year?



EASTERN CONFERENCE

Atlantic Division

.........................Average Odds.....Best Odds.....Site.........................Site Rating


Pittsburgh...........+197 ..................+220............Betsafe.......................(NR)

NY Rangers.........+203..................+225............Gamebookers.............B-

New Jersey.........+400..................+500............Betsafe.......................(NR)

Philadelphia.......+413...................+450.............Skybet..........................B+

New York (I)......+1225.................+1500...........Unibet........................(NR)


Play: Pass

Like the Northwest Division, the Atlantic Division is also too close to call. Comparing the average odds of each team to win with the highest odds of each team to win, there is no value in the Atlantic Division. This is an easy pass.

Northeast Division

.........................Average Odds ..... Best Odds..... Site......................... Site Rating


Ottawa...............-132......................+100..............Skybet......................B+

Buffalo...............+257.....................+385..............Betsson.....................B-

Toronto.............+819.....................+1200............Stan James..............B

Montreal...........+1016...................+1400............Skybet.......................B+

Boston...............+1775....................+2000...........Skybet......................B+

Play: Buffalo +385

Buffalo is strictly a value play. After losing Briere and Drury to free agency, Buffalo’s stock has taken a major drop. However, Buffalo’s team depth and Ryan Miller’s strong play will keep this team near the top of the conference. I don’t think Buffalo will finish ahead of Ottawa in the standings, but I still like them for 1.5 units at +385.



Southeast Division

.........................Average Odds.....Best Odds.....Site.........................Site Rating


Tampa Bay..........+248...................+350...........Betsafe........................(NR)

Carolina..............+263....................+300..........Gamebookers...............B-

Atlanta................+274....................+350...........Stan James....................B

Florida................+425....................+600..........Betsson...........................B-

Washington........+903...................+1400.........Skybet.............................B+

Play: Washington +1400, anyone besides Carolina

The Southeast is my favorite division from a wagering perspective. All five teams have a legitimate chance to win. Tampa Bay has major weaknesses and will be in trouble without Dan Boyle to start the season. I still would almost take a chance on them for one unit at +350. Carolina will contend but there is not enough value on them at +300. Atlanta might have the best chance to win the division at +350, but I am reluctant to play them because of the way they tanked in the second half of the season before being meekly eliminated by the Rangers in the opening round of last year’s playoffs. I like Florida to be a surprise team this year, and will probably find value on them at some point in the season. Taking them at +600 could, in hindsight, have been the largest division long-shot to win a division. Washington was competitive for the first half of last season, and is comprised of an improving young team. The acquisition of Michael Nylander will likely increase Alexander Ovechkin's production. Washington is strictly a value play, as I don’t think they will win, but I expect all five teams to compete for the division. At odds of +1400 it can’t hurt to take a shot at 1.5 units.



Those are my thoughts on each of the divisions; we will be sure to re-visit these predictions during and after the regular season. Remember, in the past division betting has not been possible once the regular season starts so get your bets in soon. If you have any thoughts, questions, or would like to share your predictions, feel free to share them in the “comments” section and I promise I will do my best to respond.

Remember: research your sportsbooks as well as your odds, because money in an offshore gaming account is like having a valuable piece of art: it is only worth what someone is willing to pay you for it.

For illegal curve, I’m Ari Baum-Cohen.

About the writer: Ari Baum-Cohen’s first sports betting victory came in 1989 when he won his father’s office pool at age 8. Since then, he has been interested in many different types of sports betting. His first major futures win came in November of the 2001-2002 hockey season when he selected “field” (field included Jarome Iginla) at odds of 30/1 to win the National Hockey League goal scoring title.

Morning Musings

There will not be a preamble today because I am running a little late. The usual format will return tomorrow morning.

On to the morning papers:

• Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail looks at the ups and downs of the Chicago Blackhawks franchise under the ownership of Bill Wirtz.
• Stephen Brunt of the Globe and Mail has a very interesting piece on the aftermath of the Steve Downie hit on Dean McAmmond.
• As Dave Shoalts explains, if the Leafs do not receive hall of fame type goaltending they will have difficulty succeeding in 2007/08.
• Damien Cox wonders when the NHL will finally take preventative action against headshots in this morning's Toronto Star.
• Vesa Toskala was not impressive in the Leafs' 7-2 loss to the Sabres on Wednesday night writes Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star.
• Neil Stevens of the the Canadian Press examines the Leafs' roster and the expectations the team is putting on itself this season.
• Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette tells us Kyle Chipchura's take on Steve Downie the hockey player. Meanwhile at Habs' camp, coach Guy Carbonneau has some tough decisions to make regarding who will make his starting defense.
• In Calgary, Stephane Yelle has changed his number to 7 in deference to Owen Nolan.
• The Flames have some lingering injury problems, however, the team believes everyone will be ready to suit up for the first regular season game against Philadelphia next week.
• Improved puck-moving skills from the Oilers' defensive corps should lead to a much improved transition game in Edmonton this season.
• Craig MacTavish may be Sean Horcoff's biggest fan, and as Dan Barnes writes, the gritty center has returned to his spot on the Oilers' number one line.
• Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal explains why the Oilers demoted 2004 first round selection Robbie Schremp.
• Dustin Penner better get used to taking Sheldon Souray's shots off his feet if he plans to park himself in front of the opposition's net every night.
• Andrew Cogliano has impressed at Oilers' camp and the Toronto native is a good bet to be centering one the four lines in Edmonton this season; Derer Van Diest of the Edmonton Sun has the story.
• As Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen writes, Dean McAmmond has been released from the hospital, but there is a very long road to recovery ahead of him. McAmmond's agent Steve Bartlett is not sure "when or if" his client will play again and warns that if the NHL doesn't put a stop to these types of head-shots, some player will get hit and not be able to get up.
• Today could be d-day in the Senators' negotiations with Dany Heatley writes Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun.
• The Canucks were defeated by the Sharks 4-3 in a shootout on Wednesday night; Gordon McIntyre has the recap in this morning's Vancouver Province.
• Mike Green looks much improved in all aspects of the game writes Tarik El-Bashir in this morning's Washington Post.
• Karri Ramo's performance at Bolts' camp is giving John Tortorella something to think about when he makes his final roster cuts later this week.
• Coming off an injury that ended his 2006/07 season, Dan Hinote is looking forward to returning to the lineup and giving Blues' fans something to cheer about this season.
• Devon Setoguchi continued his terrific pre-season last night with two goals in the Sharks' 4-3 shootout victory over the Canucks.
• Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette gives readers an inside look at the Penguins' three-day stint at West Point.
• Coach Wayne Gretzky is trying to get his two rookies, Peter Mueller and Martin Hanzal, as much experience as he can before the regular season begins next week.
• Injuries are rampant at Flyers' camp as Scottie Upshall will be out of the Flyers' lineup for 4-6 weeks, Joffrey Lupul will be out at least two weeks and R.J. Umberger will miss the next 7-10 days.
• Greg Logan previews who the Islanders' starting six defensemen will be in this morning's New York Newsday.
• As Brett Cyrgalis reports, Jaromir Jagr and Scott Gomez have been split up at Rangers' camp. Jagr skated yesterday on a line with Martin Straka and Chris Drury.
• The Devils defeated the Islanders 6-1 on Wedesday night.
• Coach Brent Sutter is impressed with Dainius Zubrus's commitment thus far at Devils' camp.
• The Predators still have just under 3,000 tickets available for their home opener next week. (Writer's note: Hockey in Nashville, gotta love it!)
• Off the ice the Predators may be struggling, but on the ice, the team has more forward depth than many realize. John Glennon of the Tennessean examines the possible forward lines for the Preds heading into the season.
• As Michael Russo of the Star Tribune writes, the team's second line of Belanger-Rolston-Bouchard has demonstrated great chemistry for the Wild this pre-season. Meanwhile, concern about the team's powerplay seems to have dissipated as the Wild have scored 11 powerplay goals this pre-season.
• The Kings defeated Swedish champions Farjestad BK 4-3 on Wednesday and, once again, Anze Kopitar was the hero. The sophomore scored the game-winner with only 46 seconds remaining.
• Coach Jacques Martin has grown sick of the Panthers' lazy penalties writes Steve Gorton of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
• Kirk Maltby wants to contribute in more aspects of the game than he has the past few seasons writes George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press. The Free Press also conducted an interview with Wings' defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom.
• Stars' forward Stu Barnes is expected to dress for his first pre-season game tonight versus the Coyotes. Barnes had been out of action because of a shoulder injury.
• Ole-Kristian Tollefsen is trying to dispel the notion that Norway is the most peaceful nation on earth writes Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch.
• Terry Frei of the Denver Post has the story of veteran Jaroslav Hlinka ,who appears to be on the cusp of securing a roster spot with the Avalanche.
• Bob Verdi of the Chicago Tribune chronicles the life of Bill Wirtz.
• It appears that Wirtz's son will take over ownership of the team writes Chris Kuc in this morning's Tribune.
• The Hurricanes have been very impressed with the play of youngsters Brett Carson and Carey Borer at camp thus far writes Lorenzo Perez of the News Observer.
• The amount of injuries at Sabres' camp concerns coach Lindy Ruff writes Tim Graham of the Buffalo News.
• Bryan Little scored his first NHL goal on Wednesday night and is opening eyes at Thrashers' camp writes Craig Custance of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
• Newest Duck Mark Mowers had quite an adventure getting overseas after getting traded on Monday afternoon.
• Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe explains the purpose behind the Bruins' hiring of Craig Ramsay this off-season.
• Matt Lashoff, the Bruins' first round pick from 2005, was disappointed to be sent down to Providence on Tuesday.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Richard Pollock.

The HD Corner - Gord Miller calling Baseball?!

Guess what hockey fans? If you’re having Gord Miller withdrawal this off-season, fret not. Miller has been calling the current Jays – Orioles series on TSN to pinch hit for Rod Black. Ironically enough, the Orioles announcer is none other than NHL announcer Gary Thorne. What are the odds that Bill Clement shows up for a second inning analysis? Let’s hope slim to none. I never thought I’d say this, but Rod Black better come back soon. Actually, does it matter? Who’s going to watch the Jays at this point of the season anyways?

Speaking of Clement, he is the latest addition to the Sportsnet hockey crew. He will provide analysis via satellite as well as in-studio appearances. Sidebar: has anyone seen that ridiculous bug spray commercial with Bill Clement shirtless? Bill, do as all a favour and do a couple push-ups. Maybe hit the bench press now and then. Please! You can check out the youtube clip here, but you have been warned.

In other Sabres news, it appears that TV and radio colour guy Jim Lorentz has decided to hang ‘em up. Maybe he read the last edition of The HD Corner, which included my criticism of his work. Now I’m starting to wish he’d stay on considering Matthew Barnaby, John Tucker and Mike Robitaille will each work beside Rick Jeanerette this week for Sabres exhibition games. No word yet for Lorentz’s full-time replacement, but you’d have to think Rob Ray would get a crack at the job, or at least an interview, since he does have some experience on Sabres MSG telecasts.

Finally, tonight The Score is airing its annual round table discussion (actually on air now as I write this column) about the state of hockey and potential rule changes. Guests include Marty, Turco, Jason Spezza, Colin Campbell, JFJ, Ken Holland, and Stephen Walkom. The panel will be run by Steve Kouleas, who although is quite annoying, usually asks good questions. For some hilghights, check out William Houston’s article here.

Cold Hard Rants--Bonus Edition

NB: This is a bonus rant, in light of last night’s hit on Dean McAmmond by the coward Steve Downie. For your regularly scheduled Cold Hard Rant, this week dealing with the coverage of exhibition hockey, please scroll down a little.

In baseball, when you throw at a batter in retaliation, the player’s unwritten code of conduct says you aim for a fleshy part of the body. You don’t throw at someone’s head. You bruise, you don’t maim. In football, it’s considered uncouth to take out someone at the knees when they are unsuspecting. Hit a guy in the face, where they can see it coming as opposed to blowing out a knee that can end someone’s career. Even though I know next to nothing about basketball, I presume there is a code of conduct in that one player’s posse doesn’t shoot at another’s posse—or at least they don’t shoot to kill, only wound.

Last night in front of a capacity crowd posing as row after row after row of empty seats, the NHL player code of conduct was violated by a nobody who brutally, illegally, and heinously injuring a fellow NHL player. I am of course speaking of Steve Downie’s hit on Dean McAmmond. Now, before you go accusing me as a sissy-boy who doesn’t understand hockey and who needed the FoxTrax to follow the puck, know that I do understand hockey (even if I dislike the NHL) and additionally there is very little in sports that gets me infuriated anymore. More often than not, I simply make a snide and insincere remark and move on. Prior to yesterday, the only other issue that got me infuriated in hockey was Todd Bertuzzi’s assault on Steve Moore (more on that in next week’s Cold Hard Rants.) That changed when Downie took his run, left his feet, and delivered an elbow to McAmmond’s head with a vicious disregard for the damage he was inflicting. If it was a clean hit performed within the rules, I would applaud him, and not be writing this, but it wasn’t, and it was done solely because Downie was embarrassed that he had gotten hit a moment before.

The television talking heads like to refer to Downie as an energy player who always plays on the edge. Bull, I say. Downie is a cheap player, a dirty player, and one who cannot succeed on his skill set alone (for a basketball comparison please see Bowen, Bruce.) Downie was embarrassed that his lack of skill was exposed for all to see by another player on the ice, and rather than proving the people wrong by performing a hockey activity that demonstrates that indeed he does have an ample skill set, he did the only thing he knew how to do well, and that is cheat. With no regard for the unwritten code of conduct that this was a meaningless exhibition game and that Dean McAmmond is a veteran player simply trying to get his game legs underneath him for the start of the regular season and MEANINGFUL games, Downie decided he needed to do whatever it took, consequences to Dean McAmmond be damned, to get his name in the spotlight.

Much like Bruce Bowen in San Antonio kneeing players, and deliberately sticking his feet under jump shooters, Downie is doing whatever it takes to stay in the NHL by making a name for himself irregardless of what context that name is held. For whatever reason there will always be room in any league for a dirty player like Steve Downie and he has realized early on in his career that he cannot succeed and sustain a career for himself in the NHL by playing the game within the rules. Much like Bruce Bowen realized this about his potential for a career in the NBA, Steve Downie has made a conscious decision that in order to succeed he must do so by any means necessary. Even if those means end up putting an unsuspecting veteran in the hospital.

All I can say to Steve Downie is that when your medicine is handed out to you by Brian McGrattan, and whomever else on the Senators is able to get their hands on you, I hope you stand there and take it. Based on the cowardly actions you have engaged in thus far in your career, I suspect you won’t, and at the end of the day that’s the worst part of a cowardly player; they are cowards through and through, and refuse to answer for their actions.

For Illegal Curve, I am Andrew M.

About the writer: Formerly a speech writer for a Canadian Federal Politician, Andrew will be bringing his unique take on the hockey world to the illegal curve blog once a week, or more often if the rage needs to be released in a manner other than clobbering a referee over the head with a whiskey bottle. Mainly because he doesn’t have enough empty whiskey bottles at his disposal.

Prospect Pulse: Derrick Lapoint

Florida draft pick, and UND recruit, Derrick Lapoint is a lanky, minute eating defenseman with solid all around skills. Though he tends to tilt towards being an offensive defender, he can also play a shut down game if called upon. The 116th overall pick in 2006, Lapoint was heavily recruited by both the University of Minnesota and the Wisconsin Badgers before deciding upon the University of North Dakota.

Putting up nearly point per game numbers with the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL, Lapoint will look to make an immediate impact on the blue line with the departure of Brian Lee. A 6'3, 190 pounder, Lapoint has a long reach and uses that wingspan effectively one on one. More of a shooter than a passer, Lapoint possesses a heavy shot that he can unload quickly.

Lapoint attended the Panthers development camp this past summer and didn't look out of place. He hopes to continue his development at UND under Coach Dave Hakstol, who has good reputation for producing defensemen. The rearguard, who once played an entire game in high school, is relishing the challenge of stepping into a deep defensive core and making a contribution. The former USHL First Team All Star is expected to spend at least two years with the Sioux before considering the move to professional hockey.

News You Can Use Late in the Day:

-Good news for the Senators. McCammond does not suffer any fractures from the hit by Steve Downie.

-Leafs prospect Jiri Tlusty gets the start on the top line.

-The Hurricanes returned Brandon Sutter to junior and sent goaltender Michael Leighton to the minors today.

-News from around the CHL.

-Darius Kasparitis hopes to find work with another NHL team. If he couldn't stick with the Rangers, it may be the end of the line.

-Al Strachan writes that the Ducks' trip to England wasn't all that easy. Poor guys, a private jet to Europe. And to top it all off, NO NAPS! Life is tough in the big leagues.

-Dean Bennett of the Canadian Press reports that Sheldon Souray and Joni Pitkanen have impressed so far at Oilers camp.

-Tom Reed of the Columbus Post-Dispatch notes that no one has seized the number one center job in Columbus. Also notice that Joel Bouchard is still with the club on a tryout, but will explore other options if he is cut.

-Flyers coach John Stevens has to thin out his blue line corps this week.

-A recap of the a discussion from The Score detailing problems with the NHL.

-Check out Raffi Torres in this clip from the Daily Show.

-The USHL to hold a scouting combine in Florida.

-Steve Rosenbloom with an excellent editorial on the passing of Bill Wirtz.

-On Frozen Blog with a few words on the renovations performed at the MCI Center.

-Wings prospect Logan Pyett said he is ready to be the leader for the Regina Pats.

-Wayne Gretzky a proponent of the new electric hockey blades. Not a bad guy to have in your corner. Good thing Boyle didn't have these skates, or he would have also been electrocuted.

-Fanhouse with a preview on the Vancouver Canucks.

-Brian Rafalski likes playing the Red Wings free flowing offensive system.

-Sports Illustrated's preview of the Western Conference.

-The Predators visit Fort Campbell. The US Army, unofficial sponsor of the NHL.

-Fan Nation with their list of the Top 20 Left Wingers. Jack Layton, Hilary Clinton, Michael Moore, Marc Hoe and my in-laws all absent from the list.

-Damien Cox does not envision the Sabres suffering much of a let down this year.

-Robert Tychowski writes about the lack of atmosphere and fans in Phoenix.

-Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun tells Phoenix to keep the Coyotes, Winnipeggers want a real NHL team. Zing.

-The Flyers report that they lost four players to injury in last night's game with Ottawa.

-Winkler, Manitoba chosen as the sight of the next Hockey Day in Canada.

-The arrival of the NHL barely causes a ripple in Jolly Olde England. Watch for an expansion team in Manchester next year.

-Another story on Gomez and Drury in NYC, this one by ESPN.

-Stan Fischler notes that tickets are selling fast in New York and Minnesota. Also note that Soprano's star Lorraine Bracco will host a wine tasting in the restaurant contained within the Devils new arena. No word on whether or not it will contain a Bada Bing! franchise.

-Scott Morrison wonders how good Sidney Crosby can get in this piece for Maclean's Magazine.

-Kelly Hrudey weighs in with his thoughts in Macleans Magazine.

-Sean Avery is anxious to get his shot at the Islanders.

-Rob Rossi reports that Kris Letang is not a lock to make the Penguins.

-Bruins' defender Andrew Alberts still making adjustments to the new defensive system.

-Jacques Lemaire ready to ice his regulars in a pre-season tilt.

-Craig Constance of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution with news and notes from the Thrashers.

-The Score's Training Camp Notebook.

For Illegal Curve, I'm Kyle Kosior. Please note that I will away for the next few days. Guest blogger Marc Hoe will take over Prospect Pulse.

Cold Hard Rants

NB: This rant applies to all sports, not just hockey.

Every now and then there is an event of such epic proportions that words can not do it justice. The shock is significant, leaving you feeling shaky, irritable, and uncertain about what to do next. Unfortunately, I had one of these experiences this past week. In the course of my usual travails around the digital universe, I had the great misfortune to land on a sports highlight show. Now normally, this is not an issue that causes me such anxiety, but in this specific instance the aforementioned highlight show was showing, complete with in-depth analysis, I repeat in-depth analysis, clips from an exhibition hockey game.

Here’s one of my rules in life and I encourage all television producers or aspiring television producers to adopt it as well. Under no circumstances should exhibition ANYTHING take precedence in a highlight package over a sporting event that actually counts in the standings. Period. While I would readily apply this rule to any sport, the incident that has most recently left me scarred was an exhibition game involving the Toronto Maple Leafs. I do not know who they were playing against. I do not care who they were playing against. All I know is that I had the great misfortune of having John Liu or some other “informative” TSN personality breathlessly analyzing the Leafs game as if their defeat of the North Carolina State Ice Hockey team (or some similar team) is some barometer of success during the regular season. Newsflash to the leafs fans actually putting some stock in these games; get a life.

In sports, despite all the clichés and assorted other crap we were inundated with as youths, the only thing that matters is who wins. That’s why the only categories listed in the sports pages are wins, losses, and the occasional tie. There isn’t a column for giving 110 percent, or trying your hardest, or games you should have won but didn’t. That’s why exhibition games do not matter and as such should not be reported on with the detail shown by TSN, SPORTSNET, and The Score. At the end of the exhibition season, do you get any reward over the team that finished dead last? Of course not. Exhibition games are bastardizations of sport and should be treated as such by the respective media.

So, I say to you Steve Kouleas of The Score, stop screaming at me about the great play of random Ottawa Senator defenseman who will be returned to his OHL team before the NHL season begins, because I do not care. And listen up Hockeycentral panel on Sportsnet, I really do not need your breaking news that the Los Angeles Kings have placed Dan Cloutier on waivers—if he was any good, he would not be on waivers in the first place. And last but not least, listen real good TSN SportsCentre producer, under no circumstances should Toronto Maple Leafs exhibition highlights, with or without post game analysis, be shown on my screen before I am fully updated on the pennant races in Major League Baseball, any occurrences in the NFL, and for that matter any professional sports league that is in the process of playing a game that actually counts. Even Nascar. And I hate Nascar.

For Illegal Curve, I am Andrew M.

About the writer: Formerly a speech writer for a Canadian Federal Politician, Andrew will be bringing his unique take on the hockey world to the illegal curve blog once a week, or more often if the rage needs to be released in a manner other than clobbering a referee over the head with a whiskey bottle. Mainly because he doesn’t have enough empty whiskey bottles at his disposal.