By Alexander Monaghan
President

Two days ago, ESPN’s Alvin Chang released his ‘Biggest draft busts since 1990′. To no one’s surprise, the Ottawa Senators have a notorious draft selection by the name of Alexandre Daigle featured within it’s contents. Surprisingly, he’s only listed at number three while blue-line stalwart Chris Phillips is currently listed at number five.

Chang developed this list using a metric called Goals Versus Threshold (GVT). Developed by Tom Awad of Hockey Prospectus, GVT is an objective player evaluation method that combines all of a player’s statistics and calculates his contribution in 4 categories: offensive, defensive, goaltending and shootout. Awad’s metric determined that Daigle, and to a lesser degree Phillips, turned out to be busts based on a combination of their statistics and subsequent performance on the ice. What it tells us is that the Sens are simply not afraid to take risks throughout the entirety of their regime. Those risks made this organization make the playoffs for 11 consecutive seasons and 12 out of their last 13 before missing last year’s postseason.

A similar type of decision making has been used over the last year as GM Bryan Murray tries to not only restock his cupboards but do so with high-end players.

In June, Murray took highly-skilled forward Mika Zibanejad with his first pick, taking a forward who was a relative unknown two months before the draft. The center burst his way into the top-10 mix after making Djurgardens IF Stockholm of the SEL before turning 18. With only nine points in his professional career, the Sens rolled the dice and took what they believed to be the player with the highest ceiling. Zibanejad would play nine games with the Sens before returning to the SEL for more seasoning.

The Sens then took Plymouth Whalers right wing Stefan Noesen, who enjoyed a breakout sophomore season in the OHL. However, coming into last season, the Plano, TX was a relative unknown, scoring three goals and eight points through 33 games on a stacked Whalers team. His pedigree was not as high as others still on the board like Brandon Saad, Ty Rattie or Zack Phillips but Murray felt Noesen would be a player at the next level. According to Hockey’s Future, Murray went so far as to compare Noesen to reigning MVP Corey Perry.

Three picks later, Murray took another gamble in selecting former OHL Rookie of the Year Matt Puempel. The Essex, Ont., native was not only a risky pick, he defines risk. After breaking out during his rookie year, Puempel regressed due to injury and inconsistency, only posting five more points in four less games — hardly meeting expectations of the Peterborough Petes. Instead of letting the left wing fall further down the ladder, Murray took the gamble by trading two second round picks — 35th overall (Tomas Jurco) and 48th overall (Xavier Ouellet) — for the 18-year-old.

The first round yielded a forward at each position. The center that projects to be a franchise player in Zibanejad. A right wing that could hurt you physically and in the box score. The wild card sniper who could turn out the best of the three. Zibanejad signed almost immediately while Noesen and Puempel inked entry-level deals this afternoon according to Chris Johnston of The Canadian Press, via Twitter.

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Filatov would once again prove to be a bust in North America, becoming a healthy scratch on many occasions before leaving for Russia. During this stint he only mustered an assist over nine games but Murray did not think the risk was a poor decision. Instead, he explained that the winger needed to get stronger in order to compete in North America and that his demotion was just a hitch in his development. The Senators still believe that he will return to the NHL and be a player; the onus is now on Filatov to prove he wants to play in America opposed to his birthplace.

Letting Filatov leave was a luxury that the team can afford due to their influx of homegrown talent in the NHL and in the minors.

In fact, while much of the focus remained on Filatov and his travels around the globe, the organization went out and acquired another fallen talent in center Kyle Turris. Turris was the 3rd overall pick back in 2007 and also made his way onto Chang’s bust list. However, the Sens were banking on the New Westminster, British Columbia native to thrive under a less taxing coach as he finally gets his chance in an offensive system. Unsurprisingly, Turris has done just that with three assists in his first four games.

More importantly, he has filled the hole vacated by Zibanejad after his nine-game stint passed. The hole that was covered up with a piece of scotch tape when the team tried out centers Peter Regin and Stefan Da Costa and even winger Nick Foligno. In trading for a legitimate pivot, and one with talent oozing out of his pores, they reinforce one of their most consistent strengths in the center position.

Ringo Calamity / Flickr

Former 2nd overall pick Jason Spezza has been the team’s top line center since 2002-2003. The slick, playmaking pivot from Mississauga, Ontario is one of the brightest stars in team history after eclipsing the 85-point barrier three times in his career. He, along with team captain Daniel Alfredsson, have led the Senators by example while showing young players how they can adapt to the big leagues.

That quality has been important during this season — one that was defined as a rebuilding year. Not including Spezza and Alfredsson, 10 of the Sens draftees are regulars in the lineup from All-Star defender Erik Karlsson to fourth line grinders Kaspars Daugavins and Erik Condra. Five other homegrown players have been in the lineup as well.

Instead of actually rebuilding, however, the Sens have stayed in the big picture, sitting in the 9th seed with one more game played than 8th seed Winnipeg. If they continue their feisty play, they could just wind up in the playoff picture and gain some extra revenue in what was supposed to be a lost season. Nevertheless, their identity, or proclivity, in making risky moves has helped them earn everything they now possess.

Since the beginning of the franchise, they have not been afraid to make big moves and a big splash. Because of that they have busts like Daigle (who was projected to be the lovechild of Gordie Howe, Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux). Similarly, they have 12 homegrown players on their roster because of their drafting strategy in addition to several others who can step right into the lineup when healthy.

We could be seeing yet another incarnation of a Senators dynasty within the upcoming years. We may see a team that blows away its predecessors due to Murray and company staying true to the organization’s history and finding the best talent they possibly could.

Trade Deadline less then 24 hours away and for the San Jose Sharks, it spells their last chance to acquire another stable goalie to back up Antti Niemi. Why are they in the hunt for a goalie? At some point, the Sharks are going to want to give Niemi a rest, but with Antero Niittymaki out indefinitely with a lower body injury and Worcester Sharks goalie, Alex Stalock done for the season, San Jose has Worcester backup Carter Hutton filling in. Hutton who has never played in an NHL game before will be eligible for free agency after this season as well.

So let’s take a look at who is currently sitting on waivers:

Ty Conklin (7-6-3)

Even with Jaroslav Halak, who’s been out since February 17th with a hand injury, the Blues still went ahead and put Conklin on waivers. So why was Conklin put on waivers when he is only making $1.4 million this season, and slated to become a UFA on July 1st? Halak, who is making $2.75 million, is signed through 2013/14 and became eligible to return to the ice on the 22nd, but it currently listed as day to day. They’ve also got Ben Bishop on the roster. Bishop makes $850,000 this season and is set to be a RFA. They’ll be definitely looking to resign the young goal tender.

Why he would be good for San Jose – Conklin backstopped both Pittsburgh and Detroit to the Stanley Cup Finals in back to back seasons albeit failing to actually win the Cup. Playing along side current Stanley Cup Champion, Niemi, you have nearly 48 combined games of playoff experience for the past three seasons.

Why he wouldn’t be good for San Jose - Having played for six different teams over ten seasons. Raises some eyebrows, yes?

Curtis McElhinney (6-9-1)

Traded by the Anaheim Ducks to the Tampa Bay Lightning for Dan Ellis on Thursday, placed on waivers on Saturday. This I don’t understand, McElhinney makes $570K, where as Dwayne Roloson and Mike Smith make a combined $5.4 million. All are scheduled to become UFA’s, and out of the three, McElhinney would be the least likely to jump in salary much.

Why he would be good for San Jose - He’s still a pretty young goalie at 27 years old with a career 3.21 GAA and .895 SV%

Why he wouldn’t be good for San Jose – See above. With stats like that, you’re better off having a rookie goalie in net.

Pascal Leclaire (4-7-1)

The Senators seem to be on the right track with this move, getting rid of their highest paid goal tender. Leclaire makes $4.8 million and is set to be a UFA. He’d ask for a increase in salary, but with the salary increase of Milan Michalek and the salaries of Jason Spezza, Daniel Alfredsson, they might have to make moves. On February 18th, they traded for Craig Anderson and he posted a 47 save shutout in his first start. Backing up Anderson is Robin Lehner who makes $900K through 2012/13.  Anderson, a UFA as well at the end of the season, won’t get much of a increase if the Sens don’t make the playoffs.

Why he would be good for San Jose – 173 games played over 7 seasons, 61 wins, 10 shutouts. Career 2.89 GAA with .904 SV%. It’s almost like finding the perfect goalie.

Why he wouldn’t be good for San Jose – His salary. Plain and simple. San Jose just doesn’t have the space to pick him up.

—

Sure there are plenty of other and more suitable goalies out there that San Jose could look at. Take Tomas Vokoun for example. The Florida Panthers are in a rebuilding stage, and Vokoun is their highest paid player taking up $6.3 million dollars of their cap. He’ll be a UFA come July 1st and the Panthers might be looking to move him to clear space.  That moves also forces Florida to fend for another goalie themselves. Downside to trading for Vokoun? San Jose would have to clear major space to take on that contract. That means sending at least two roster players to Florida or making separate trades to accommodate.

For that price, San Jose, I say don’t do it. Pluck a man off waivers and sign him for cheap. Please and Thank You.

Game Preview – Carolina Hurricanes 10/14

The Ottawa Senators return home tonight for their second home game of the young season following a hard fought overtime loss to the Washington Capitals on Monday.

With their first point under their belt, the Sens must build on it and continue to improve. The offense absolutely has to step up, with just four goals through three games the onus is on the top two lines to start clicking.

Daniel Alfredsson is good to go after leaving before the overtime period on Monday, he won’t be 100% but close to it. Milan Michalek is not going to keep getting a pass for his sluggish play. Coming off knee surgery in the summer, he will need some time to get his speed and timing back but he is going to have start producing. Ryan Shannon sticks in the lineup after a strong game against the Caps, while Jess Winchester moves up to the second line to play with Nick Foligno and Mike Fisher, in what should be a high energy line. Zack Smith comes out of the lineup.

Pascal Leclaire gets his fourth straight start as coach Clouston continues to install confidence in the 27 year old goaltender. Depending on how he plays, Leclaire could go again on Saturday vs the Canadiens.

The Canes come into tonight’s game at 2-0 and have been off since last Friday, so the Sens will need to jump on them early.  They looked pretty good in back to back wins against the Minnesota Wild in Helsinki, Finland. Jussi Jokinen has picked up where he left off last season posting two goals and three points in two games, rookie Brandon Sutter has fit in nicely with two goals and Cam Ward looks like his old self again. In what should be a competitive Southeast Division, the Canes will need to to continue their quick start in order to keep up with the Caps and even Lightning.

LEADING SCORERS

OTT:  Jarkko Ruutu and Chris Neil tied with two points each

CAR:  Jussi Jokinen (3 pts)

STARTING GOALTENDERS

OTT:  Pascal Leclaire (0-2-1, 3.28 GAA, .900 SV%)

CAR:   Cam Ward (2-0-0, 1.92 GAA, .944 SV%)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

OTT: Daniel Alfreddson – The captain is still looking for his first goal of the season and will be playing through a nagging lower body injury. The Sens usually receive a boost when Alfie is on his game, and a big game from him will go a long way in getting the Sens going.

CAR:  Eric Staal – Carolina’s captain is looking for his first point on the season. While he does lead the team with 10 shots on goal, he needs to avoid another slow start after after last year’s miserable first ten games in which he recorded just three points.

SENATORS QUOTE

“Overall, the last three games, he’s been our best player,” – Clouston on Leclaire

Mike Stelcner
NHLHS Ottawa Senators Correspondent
mstelcner@nhlhotstove.com

As we’ve skated through the NHL preseason and have witnessed our first glances at most teams around the league to start the actual year, we will take a look at the potential top lines around the league that are likely to be the mainstay top line for their respective clubs.

There has been a decent amount of change around the league this off-season and here at NHLHS, we will break down how each lines production could pan out around the league.

Keep in mind that there will be line juggling to start the season as coaches will attempt to find the proper chemistry amongst the forward units to provide a competitive game scenario.  What we present to you below are projected lines to start the year.  Whether they were the way the lines finished the season last year, or what has come from initial reports out of training camps.

Anaheim Ducks:

Bobby Ryan – Ryan Getzlaf – Corey Perry

The boys are back in town.  After a summer long battle in Bobby Ryan camp, the youngster from Cherry Hill, NJ has finally agreed to a new contract extension with the club which will see him remain a Duck for the next five years.  The returns of Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne help the veteran presence and the second line situation, and allows for the top line to stick together and produce for another season, to say the least.  With Joffrey Lupul finally cleared to being training from his injuries, there is good news all around.  Surprising seasons from Dan Sexton and the trade that brought in Jason Blake will be hopeful helping additions to the top nine.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Ryan Getzlaf – GP G 28 A 43 PTS 71
Corey Perry – GP 80 G 32 A 27 PTS 59
Bobby Ryan – GP 78 G 31 A 34 PTS 65

Atlanta Thrashers:

Niclas Bergfors – Nik Antropov – Evander Kane

It will depend on chemistry, but this could be a deadly top line for the Thrashers this season. The second full season for Evander Kane will see him continue to grow in to a power forward and having Dustin Byfuglien to learn the ropes from will undoubtedly help him. Without the likes of Ilya Kovalchuk and Max Afinogenov, the Thrashers will lean heavily on Niclas Bergfors and Kane for goal production. It could really go either way in Atlanta, but the future is bright.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Nik Antropov – GP 80 G 24 A 49 PTS 73
Niclas Bergfors – GP 79 G 28 A 33 PTS 61
Evander Kane – GP80 G 24 A 27 PTS 51

Boston Bruins:

Milan Lucic – David Krejci – Nathan Horton

Injuries put a damper on the offensive production for Boston last season – both during the regular season and Stanley Cup Playoffs. This year, it seems as if there is a lot carrying over from last year.  Top line Center Marc Savard, who is still battling through post concussion symptoms and it is anyone’s guess at this point if he will start the season healthy with Boston, will be missed to say the least. The lack of production from Michael Ryder and company added to the issues for the Bruins.  This year, with a few newcomers on board and some new situations to attack since Dennis Wideman has been shipped out in favor of Nathan Horton, the Bruins will hope to be back among the eight teams heading into the playoffs in 2011.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

David Krejci – GP 75 G 26 A 35 PTS 61
Nathan Horton – GP 80 G 35 A 28 PTS 63
Milan Lucic – GP 74 G 23 A 35 PTS 58

Buffalo Sabres:

Jason Pominville – Derek Roy – Thomas Vanek

It’s not a secret that the Buffalo Sabres are a team that rely heavily on the netminding of Ryan Miller, but they do boast a few offensive weapons. The 2009-10 season saw a 12 goal drop for winger Thomas Vanek, who scored 28, and the Sabres need Vanek to return to form this year. The team did little update their roster in the offseason, which shows that management has faith in their squad. Derek Roy is once again going to once again be leaned on for steady offensive production. Jason Pominville did suffer an injury early in the season, but that shouldn’t stop him from reaching the 60 point plateau this year.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Derek Roy – GP 82 G 26 A 60 PTS 86
Thomas Vanek – GP 76 G 29 A 33 PTS 62
Jason Pominville – GP 75 G 27 A 40 PTS 67

Calgary Flames:

Alex Tanguay – Olli Jokinen – Jarome Iginla

After last seasons debacle out of Calgary, and the trades that called for GM Darryl Sutters head, the off-season signings of Olli Jokinen and Alex Tanguay can truly only make one person happy: Jarome Iginla.  To be fair, the chemistry between the group when they were once Flames players was fantastic however, Jokinen and Tanguay have since fallen off the map of talented skaters within the NHL.  This will be their year to bounce back.  If they can find what was once a dominant line within the league, it could provide to be one of the better top lines.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Olli Jokinen – GP 70 G 25 A 25 PTS 50
Alex Tanguay – GP 76 G 16 A 40 PTS 56
Jerome Iginla – GP 77 G 34 A 33 PTS 67

Carolina Hurricanes:

Jussi Jokinen – Eric Staal – Tuomo Ruutu

In hopes to forget the season that was 2009-10 and embark on 2010-11 in proper fashion, the Hurricanes were sent overseas for the NHL Premier games and Cam Ward put on quite a show in front of the crowd oversees.  In order for this Hurricanes team to make any noise this year, Ward will need to provide consistent goaltending and stay healthy. Though injuries have arrived in Carolina, and who is to place a time table on anyone’s return, you will likely see plenty of line juggling over the course of the first two weeks.  Eric Staal will continue to lead the way, and offensive production must be at a premium this year out of him.

Jussi Jokinen – GP 76 G 31 A 28 PTS 59
Eric Staal – GP 80 G 34 A 37 PTS 71
Tuomo Ruutu – GP 72 G 21 A 22 PTS 43

Chicago Blackhawks:

Marian Hossa – Jonathan Toews – Patrick Kane

What can be said about the talent that was kept on board by the 2009-10 Stanley Cup Champions other than adjectives that would all equal one simple word: Wow. Cap casualties Dustin Byfuglien, Andrew Laad, Kris Versteeg, Ben Eager and a few other role players have all been sent packing from the Chicago organization.  However, when Marian Hossa, Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp and Dave Bolland remain in tact good things will remain within Chicago.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Jonathan Toews – GP 82 G 30 A 55 PTS 85
Marian Hossa – GP 70 G 44 A 49 PTS 93
Patrick Kane – GP 82 G 34 A 50 PTS 84

Colorado Avalanche:

Chris Stewart – Paul Stastny – Milan Hejduk

The Colorado Avalanche surprised the hockey world in 2009-10 moving from the basement in to the eight playoff spot in the Western Conference. Led by Paul Stastny, who had his best statistical season, and youngsters like Matt Duchene and Chris Stewart leaves little to the pondering mind, outside of a sophomore slump, to say they can not achieve last years production.  Trade deadline acquisition Peter Mueller will start off the season on the injured list with a concussion, but his return will only add more offense to this team. Expect Stewart to play a bigger role, as well as veteran Milan Hejduk to be his consistent self. Youth is definitely served on this team with T.J. Galliardi and Ryan O’Reilly, who will have bigger seasons and the opportunity to move up the depth chart.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Paul Stastny – GP 75 G 29 A 54 PTS 83
Chris Stewart – GP 80 G 32 A 39 PTS 71
Milan Hejdux – GP 70 G 26 A 35 PTS 61

Columbus Blue Jackets:

Rick Nash – Antoine Vermette – Kristian Huselieus

When Rick Nash compliments your play you know you are doing something right. In an article posted this off-season on NHL.com, Nash was on record stating how good the chemistry between he and fellow line mate Antoine Vermette is. If this line can stay healthy and Huselieus can squeeze past his streaks, there could be potential for a very good year from them.  There could also be a disaster.  This is a washy situation in Columbus and we will have to hope for the best.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Rick Nash – GP 78 G 31  A 30 PTS 61
Antoine Vermette – GP 73 G 22 A 40 PTS 66
Kristian Huselieus – GP 68 G 25 A 30 PTS 55

Dallas Stars:

Loui Eriksson – Brad Richards – James Neal

The Mike Modano era is now over in Dallas, but let’s face it, that happened when Brenden Morrow took over as team captain in 2006. Brad Richards returned to form in 2009-10 with 67 assists which he added on top of scoring 24 goals to total 91 points. Wingers Loui Eriksson and James Neal both benefited from playing with Richards and another season will prove it was no fluke. Expect big things in big D from this trio as they will be relied on to carry the offense. The second line of Mike Ribeiro, Jamie Benn and Morrow should take some of the pressure off as well and could provide quite the top six for production out of Dallas this year.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Brad Richards – GP 79 G 23 A 58 PTS 81
James Neal – GP 82 G 31 A 30 PTS 61
Loui Eriksson – GP 76 G 27 A 34 PTS 61

Detroit Red Wings:

Pavel Datsyuk – Henrik Zetterberg – Johan Franzen

The timeless franchise may just be coming to an end. Boasting on of the oldest teams in the NHL, the Red Wings also have the most experience. Pavel Datsyuk is the best two-way forward in the league and after a statistically disappointing season last year, Datsyuk will look to capitalize on his scoring chances this year. A seasoned Jimmy Howard should allow the Wings to take a few more chances offensively and the scoring in Mo-Town should be that much better this season.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Henrik Zetterberg – GP 75 G 25 A 48 PTS 73
Pavel Datsyuk – GP 82 G 32 A 66 PTS 98
Johan Franzen – GP 70 G 28 A 30 PTS 58

Edmonton Oilers:

Dustin Penner – Sam Gagner – Ales Hemsky

Despite all the young and exciting talent that the Oilers boast, it is the veterans that will lead the way. Dustin Penner is out to prove that last year was, once again, not a fluke. While Oiler nation will finally see if Ales Hemsky is truly for real. Sam Gagner, as we all know, has all the talents to be a great center in the NHL and with two shifty wingers on his side, the time is now for the young man to break out.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Dustin Penner – GP 82 G 34 A 30 PTS 64
Sam Gagner – GP 70 G 18 A 38 PTS 56
Ales Hemsky – GP 74 G 23 A 28 PTS 51

Florida Panthers:

David Booth – Stephen Weiss – Michael Frolik

The young, rebuilding Florida Panthers will have a lot of adjusting to do this season.  When Nathan Horton was shipped to Boston in favor of Dennis Wideman and the 15th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, it left a glaring hole on the top line.  This hole has yet to be filled, and with a void this big, it leaves little to help the rest of the line up. Expect a long, possible painful season from the Cats in South Florida.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Stephen Weiss – GP 82 G 25 A 35 PTS 60
David Booth – GP 77 G 26 A 33 PTS 59
Michael Frolik  – GP 80 G 21 A 19 PTS 40

Los Angeles Kings:

Ryan Smyth – Anze Kopitar – Wayne Simmonds

The team who have been compared to the Chicago Blackhawks of last year most frequently are the Kings.  With Anze Kopitar getting better and better each year, youngster Wayne Simmonds proving his talent and Ryan Smyth being in the best shape of his entire playing career, there is potential to have one of the most dominant and productive top lines in all of the NHL. Of course, things will mix and match to start the season, as we have witnessed already from head coach Terry Murray but before you know it, all signs point to the creating of a very balanced top nine with a comfortable top six.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Anze Kopitar – GP 82 G 31 A 73 PTS 104
Wayne Simmonds – GP 80 G 22 A 29 PTS 51
Ryan Smyth – GP 79 G 34 A 32 PTS 66

Minnesota Wild:

Andrew Brunette – Mikko Koivu – Martin Havlat

Trouble in paradise. Unable to find a solution to the offensive production, considering Martin Havlat has yet to live up to his contract and no one else on the team has been able to find their scoring touch, the Minnesota Wild find themselves in a position to be one of the bottom teams in the Western Conference this year.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Mikko Koivu – GP 80 G 30 A 36 PTS 66
Antti Miettenen – GP 77 G 22 A 30 PTS 52
Martin Havlat – GP 72 G 20 A 28 PTS 48

Montreal Canadiens:

Brian Gionta – Scott Gomez – Michael Cammalleri

La belle province. The Habs are always an NHL team under the national spotlight and this season will be no different. Although the spotlight will not be on the offense. Carey Price is now the man in Montreal, but the likes of Mike Cammalleri, Scott Gomez and captain Brian Gionta will have to carry the offensive load for the team. Gionta is going to face the pressures of being the second American-born captain for the Habs, but that shouldn’t affect his offensive output, while Cammalleri will likely be depended on for scoring the majority of goals for the Canadiens.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Scott Gomez – GP 80 G 23 A 45 PTS 68
Brian Gionta – GP 82 G 27 A 49 PTS 76
Mike Cammalleri – GP 81 G 38 A 36 PTS 74

Nashville Predators:

Steve Sullivan – Matthew Lombardi – Patric Hornqvist

If history can repeat itself, Matthew Lombardi and Patric Hornqvist are setting themselves up to have quite the season in Nashville.  Though, chemistry and learning to play together will be the number one key to developing that chemistry during the first two weeks of play.  Barring health issues, and any other concerns from the black and white product, this top line does have what it takes to put up quite the points this year.  Nashville will rely heavily on secondary scoring, but with J.P. Dumont, Martin Erat, and the hopes that Colin Wilson will finally develop into a top six talent on board, it should be yet another fun seasons for Preds fans.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Steve Sullivan – GP 70 G 22 A 27 PTS 49
Matthew Lombardi – GP 80 G 27 A 44 PTS 71
Patric Horqvist – GP 82 G 32 A 36 PTS 68

New Jersey Devils:

Ilya Kovalchuk – Travis Zajac – Zach Parise

Also know as the “ZIP” line, this trio has the potential to earn themselves quite the surplus in points totals come seasons end. There is nobody that will benefit more from the addition of Ilya Kovalchuk than Travis Zajac. Look for the young centre to have a career season with not only assists, but also goals. Zach Parise is already in a league of his own, and being a part of this trio will continue to help him excel within his position with ease.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Zajac – GP 82 G 29 A 45 PTS 74
Parise – GP 80 G 34 A 43 PTS 77
Kovalchuk – GP 79 G 43 A 30 PTS 73

New York Islanders:

Matt Moulson – John Tavares – Nino Niederreiter

When John Tavares suffered a concussion to start the year, not only did it totally destroy the hopes of Isles fans across the hockey nation, it puts a damper on the development that everyone within the hockey community was looking forward to witnessing.  With Kyle Okposo, Rob Schremp and Mark Streit already on the shelf to start the year, doom and gloom awaits. Unless potential stud prospect Nino Niederreiter can step up and fill in on the top line upon Tavares’ return, it’s slim pickings at the Old Barn in Nassau County.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

John Tavares – GP 70 G 26 A 44 PTS 70
Matt Moulson – GP 80 G 27 A 22 PTS 49
Nino Niederreiter – GP 78 G 24 A 27 PTS 51

New York Rangers:

Marian Gaborik – Derek Stepan – Alex Frolov

For the first time in a few years the Rangers were not one of the most active teams on the free agent market. They did, however, land coveted free agent Alex Frolov from the LA Kings. Frolov will join Marian Gaborik on the top line, which should make for some flashy goals this season in the Big Apple. In his first season with the Rangers Gaborik played in 76 games (second highest total of career) and matched his career high with 42 goals. If the preseason was any indication, Gaborik and Frolov have found the chemistry and Derek Stepan could turn into the teams number one center in no time.  Brandon Dubinsky has found the perfect slot on the second line with Ryan Callahan and Artem Anisimov and with the chemistry they have, do not expect that line to be broken up any time soon.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Derek Stepan – GP 73 G 21 A 25 PTS 46
Marian Gaborik – GP 78 G 41 A 40 PTS 81
Alex Frolov – GP 79 G 22 A 42 PTS 64

Ottawa Senators:

Daniel Alfredsson – Jason Spezza – Alexei Kovalev

The Ottawa Sentators have a lot of work to do this season. They have some tremendous talents with Daniel Alfredsson and Jason Spezza to go with veteran wit in Alexei Kovalev, but they are in a tough division and will need to play good team hockey if they plan on making the playoffs. Expect big numbers from the top line in Ottawa, but when it comes to offensive depth, the Sens are definitely lacking.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Jason Spezza – GP 77 G 23 A 50 PTS 83
Daniel Alfredsson – GP 60 G 20 A 30 PTS 50
Alexei Kovalev – GP 68 G 22 A 30 PTS 52

Pittsburgh Penguins:

Chris Kunitz – Sidney Crosby – Evgeni Malkin

What is there to say about the Penguins offense that hasn’t already been said. They are tremendously deep down the middle, but depend on second tier wingers to get the job done. Expect Evgeni Malkin to play the wing on the first and second line throughout the season while also dabbling as the second line centre. Big numbers will be put up by Sidney Crosby no matter who he plays with.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Sidney Crosby – GP 77 G 38 A 65 PTS 103
Chris Kunitz – GP 79 G 21 A 30 PTS 51
Evgeni Malkin – GP 79 G 33 A 68 PTS 101

Philadelphia Flyers:

Mike Richards – Jeff Carter – Dan Carcillo

The trio attempts to compliment each other.  With a surplus of Centers on the Philadelphia roster, someone will have to move to wing and it seems, at least to start the season, that Mike Richards will fill that role.  With that being said, the top line to start the season, as mentioned above, has the potential to be one of the better top lines in the NHL.

Although the acquisition of Nikolai Zherdev, even with all the knocks on Zherdev and his lack of defensive abilities, his offensive production will compliment the play of his responsible two-way teammates.  Jeff Carter, who has scored 30 or more goals in each of the previous two seasons, has two gifted line mates to play with as well.  Sitting at 99 goals in his NHL career, Zherdev will reach a milestone, barring injury, this season with Philadelphia – even as part of the 3rd line.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Carter -  GP 76 G 38 A 30 PTS 68
Richards – GP 80 G 32 A 51 PTS 83
Carcillo – GP 72 G 16 A 12 PTS 28

Phoenix Coyotes:

Lee Stempniak – Wojtek Wolski – Shane Doan

A surplus of moves out of Phoenix seem to be counteractive as they attempted to replace what they lost. Matthew Lombardi and Zybnek Michalek have since found new teams but Phoenix will look to some familiar faces as well as the addition of veteran Ray Whitney to help the offensive situations as a whole. With skaters like Wolski and Stempniak – as long as they can progress in the same instance as the season prior to this, there could be enough firepower among this Coyotes group to lead them directly into the playoffs once again this year.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Wojtek Wolski – GP 80 G 24 A 37 PTS 61
Lee Stempniak – GP 82 G 30 A 34 PTS 64
Shane Doan – GP 82 G 28 A 42 PTS 70

San Jose Sharks:

Dany Heatley – Joe Thorton – Patrick Marleau

What can truly be said about one of the top offensive units in the game today?  Outside of the playoff knocks on the Sharks cast, regular season play is dominant year in and year out.  Simply stated, when ‘Jumbo’ Joe Thorton is your top line Center and you can dish the puck off to a sniper like Dany Heatley or a very solid goal scorer like Patrick Marleau, there is no reason any of the three – slumps included – should not be able to earn at least 65 points or more this upcoming season. We know, they did not start the season together, but it is only a matter of time until things return to normal.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Joe Thorton GP 75 G 21 A 63 PTS 84
Dany Heatley GP 80 G 35 A 33 PTS 68
Patrick Marleau GP 76 G 31 A 33 PTS 64

St. Louis Blues:

David Backes – Andy MacDonald – David Perron

The Blues are one of the youngest teams in the league and this season we will really get to see what kind of talents they boast. David Perron and David Backes are big parts of the organization and they will have to produce in order for the team to win. The addition of Jaroslav Halak should allow the forwards and defenseman to have a little more freedom on the offensive side of the puck, which should lead to more goals.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Andy MacDonald – GP 77 G 25 A 25 PTS 50
David Backes – GP 80 G 30 A 36 PTS 66
David Perron – GP 81 G 23 A 45 PTS 68

Tampa Bay Lightning:

Simon Gagne – Steve Stamkos – Martin St. Louis

It’s hard to believe that Vincent Lecavalier would ever be the number two center on the Lightning, but the emergence of Steven Stamkos has moved him to that position. The Lighting are stacked on the offensive side of the puck and should have no problems scoring this season, their biggest question is between the pipes. But leaving goaltenders out of the equation, St. Louis, Stamkos and likely newcomer Simon Gagne can surely provide the offensive pop needed to make some noise within the Southwest Division.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Steven Stamkos – GP 82 G 55 A 55 PTS 110
Martin St. Louis – GP 77 G 23 A 60 PTS 83
Simon Gagne – GP 60 G 27 A 25 PTS 52

Toronto Maple Leafs:

Kris Versteeg – Tyler Bozak – Phil Kessel

Say what you will about Tyler Bozak being too young and too far off for a top line Center role.  Then, watch the magic that will be created between Versteeg and Kessel to help propel Bozak and his point production to match that of the weakest top line Center from around the NHL. The Leafs are looking to make a statement this year and it’s playoffs or bust at that.  In what has already started out as a surprising but promising start of the season in Toronto, one can only hope that they continue to rise and play consistent hockey all year long. Here, we aren’t hoping we are projecting this to happen.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Tyler Bozak – GP 82 G 22 A 25 PTS 47
Phil Kessel – GP 81 G 42 A 29 PTS 71
Kris Versteeg – GP 76 G 27 A 33 PTS 60

Vancouver Canucks:

Daniel Sedin – Henrik Sedin – Alex Burrows

Even without his twin, Henrik Sedin led the league in points last year proving that, as fantastic as a player combination the brothers are, Henrik can handle all situations when called upon. Yes, Alex Burrows has missed the start of the year due to the injury bug but once he returns, the Canucks truly have one of the most dominant top lines in all of the NHL. The twins and Burrows will lead this organization to the promise land sooner than one may expect.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Henrik Sedin – GP 82 G 33 A 43 PTS 76
Daniel Sedin – GP 78 G 32 A 47 PTS 79
Alexander Burrows – GP 68 G 27 A 35 PTS 62

Washington Capitals:

Alexander Ovechkin – Nicklas Backstrom – Mike Knuble

Does anyone truly expect to see a lack of production from one of the greatest Center/Winger combination’s in the entire league? Forsberg Jr., or as we know him Mr. Nicklas Backstrom and Alexander Ovechkin make for one of the most dangerous offensive attacks the game has ever witnessed. With young Backstrom developing with every shift in every game, and only getting better, as well as Ovechkin being the pure goal scorer he is, this lethal top line duo along with veteran Mike Knuble will be atop the statistical charts come April.  The only question that needs to be answered is if the offensive output will be enough to help the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup appearance in 13 years.

Projections for the 2010-11 season:

Nicklas Backstrom – GP 80 G 35 A 89 PTS 124*
Alexander Ovechkin – GP 78 G 86 A 53 PTS 139*
Mike Knuble – GP 80 G 22 A 28 PTS 50

Nicklas Backstrom – GP 80 G 35 A 63 PTS 98
Alexander Ovechkin – GP 78 G 52 A 45 PTS 97
Mike Knuble – GP 80 G 22 A 28 PTS 50

With those projections, and the general consensus over ruling any other ideas we had in mind, the top three to round out the league this season are:

#3 - San Jose Sharks

#2 – Vancouver Canucks

#1 – Washington Capitals

Honorable mentions:  The New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers sure have some fire power that will be tough to contain throughout the course of the season. Though not cracking the top three, we feel the would absolutely be among the top five if we had decided to go that far.

Who would be the best first line in your opinion?

*For the haters.

Anthony Curatolo
NHLHS NHL Writer
acuratolo@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @HockeyGuy_AC

Brandon Macdonald
NHLHS Editor
bmacdonald@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @bMacdonald8

Ottawa Senators by Luca Vacca of LeafsWire

The Ottawa Senators have a very steep mountain to climb if they want to advance past the first round of the 2010 NHL playoffs. After drawing Pittsburgh as their opponent, Ottawa will be tasked with shutting down two of the premier players in the league, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Couple that with an impressive supporting cast of forwards, a dangerously offensive blueline, and a proven playoff goalie in Marc-Andre Fleury, the odds look insurmountable for Ottawa. However, Ottawa does have the potential to upset the defending Stanley Cup champions, and heres how.

In terms of defense, the Penguins blueline leaves much to be desired. Althought they compete at a high offensive level each game, they have such shortcomings in keeping pucks out, it just might be Ottawa’s saving grace.  Daniel Alfredsson once again led his team in points this year, with Jason Spezza falling far behind due to injury. The absence of Heatley on a team that never really regained the lost offence really hurts, but the Senators have perservered. They have stocked their team up with pre trade deadline acquisitions (Andy Sutton, Matt Cullen, etc.) and look poised to make a run at the later playoff rounds. The only big uncertainty for them is their stability in net. Brian Elliot has played better as of late, but can he continue and translate it into post-season success. Pascal Leclaire has had a year to forget in Ottawa, and Brian Elliott is the only legitimate goaltending option they have.

In terms of their roster, Ottawa heads into the playoffs with Filip Kuba and Alexei Kovalev sidelined. Kuba was a significant part of their defense, and although Kovalev did little during the season, it would have been interesting to see what he could have done come playoff time.

In conclusion, the odds are stacked greatly against Ottawa, but the Penguins aren’t perfect, and the Senators might just find a way to dethrone the champion Penguins.

Pittsburgh Penguins by Joe Depto

To earn victory in the postseason, you need both experience and goaltending. The Penguins have the Ottawa Senators beat in spades in both categories. Over half of Pittsburgh’s roster has Stanley Cup Finals experience, 11 of which have been with the Penguins both of their Cup Finals appearances the last two seasons, including a championship team last season (In fact, only five players from the Penguins current roster were not part of last year’s team that beat Detroit for the cup).

Goaltending will also be imperative in this, and every, NHL playoff series. Bar none, Marc-Andre Fleury has been the NHL’s finest postseason goalie both of the last two seasons, winning 30 playoff games in two seasons; earning two Finals appearances and one cup run in the process. He also features a impressive 2.29 GAA in his two most recent postseasons (44 games played over that span of time). Pittsburgh will have a significant edge in this department over Ottawa goalie Brian Elliott, who will be making his NHL Playoff debut between the pipes for the Senators this evening.

Up front, the Penguins will have even the underrated Ottawa forwards ousted with gusto. Players like Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson have earned their place in Senators lore, including winning a Prince of Wales trophy of their own in 2007. But Pittsburgh’s Sidney Crosby is hockey’s most heralded champion for a reason, as is last year’s Conn Smythe award winning center Evgeni Malkin. These superstars, along with Jordan Staal, will make it impossible for the Senators to get their desired matchups and, eventually, proper offensive production.

Ottawa features a bruised and depleted blueline. As talented as Chris Phillips and Anton Volchenkov have been for the Sens, lacking Alex Kovalev and Filip Kuba at defense will add insult to injury when the Pens stars step into the spotlight. Pittsburgh’s defense has been maddeningly inconsistent at times this series, but with 4 out of their 6 blueliners Cup-Final-tested, they will be ready for the Ottawa Senators when the puck drops for Game 1. These two teams have met in the playoffs in the last 3 out of 4 years. For the second time out of those three match-ups, expect the Pens to have their satisfaction.

In what has become a veritable rollercoaster-type season for the Philadelphia Flyers, the lowpoints are seemingly falling deeper and deeper.

With last night’s 2-0 shutout loss to Brian Elliott and the Ottawa Senators, the Orange and Black now trails Ottawa by 4 points.  Only one point separates the Flyers from the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.  The Boston Bruins currently sit in that slot and have a game in hand on the Flyers.  And the rejuvenated Atlanta Thrashers are just 4 points from knocking Philadelphia out of the postseason entirely.

A familiar problem for the Flyers has once again reared it’s ugly head, one that no one thought would afflict a Philly team with so much offensive potential this season.  But they have again run into a stretch where they have a complete lack of generating any offense.   And it couldn’t have come at a worse time.

After scoring 11 goals in their first 2 games back from the Olympic break, Philadelphia has mustered just 22 goals in their last 11 contests, in which they have a 4-5-2 record.  This is reminiscent of a span in November and December where the Flyers went on a 3-13-1 skid, a stretch in which Philadelphia managed just 30 goals in those 17 games.

And this in a season when the Flyers addressed an issue in the lack of scoring from their defenseman when they acquired Chris Pronger in the offseason.  Philadelphia was ranked dead last in goals scored by defenseman with 20 in 2008-09, the Flyer’s D has already scored 26 during the 2009-10 campaign.  Pronger’s has contributed 10 goals, the first Flyer defenseman to register double-digit goals in a season since Joni Pitkanen did so in the 2005-06 season.

The dropoff has been with the forwards.  After having six forwards with 25 goals or more on the roster last season, the Flyers appear to have a realistic chance at having just three this year.

The Flyers have scored just 3 goals in the last 3 contests, and just 6 in the 4 games since starting goaltender Michael Leighton’s injury.  This has put the onus on Brian Boucher to be almost-perfect, and although Boucher has let in a couple of weak goals, he has had no room for error, whatsoever.

The team’s offensive inconsistency was not expected when the season began.

Scott Hartnell was coming off a career-best 30 goals last year, but now sits at just 14.  In addition to not actually as many scoring goals, he has not been near the chaotic force in front of opposing goaltenders that led to teammates scoring that he was last year.  And Hartnell’s continued lack of discipline has created far too many opposition power plays.

A healthy Danny Briere was expected to provide a much bigger impact this year than the 11 goals in just 29 games last season in an injury-plagued 2008-09.  Even though he has chipped in with 24 this season, which ranks third on the team, a much more consistent contribution was contemplated.  Briere has completely disappeared for weeks at a time far too often during the course of the current season.

Simon Gagne had scored 34 goals a year ago, but has managed just 15 in 49 games so far this season.  He has looked much more aggressive in making plays and getting into a position for high percentage shots, so the Flyers are hoping that he can be a difference-maker down the stretch.

Claude Giroux has been one of the most baffling players to suit up for Philadelphia this season.  Coming off a playoff series against the Pittsburgh Penguins last year where he was one of the best players in Orange and Black, expectations were for Giroux to pick right up where he had left off and become a steady contributor this year.  Possessed with magician-like offensive skills, Giroux has just 1 goal and 2 assists in his last 12 games.  And his 14 goals and 27 assists in 73 games have to be looked at as disappointing.

Captain Mike Richards has 28 goals thus far in the 2009-10 season, but at times has looked too laid back, especially on the power play.  Skating with the puck along the boards or even sometimes on 2-on-1 breaks, he has appeared to be ready to make a last-possible-moment highlight reel pass for a teammate’s slam dunk goal.  Too many times he has taken himself out of the play and Philly has come away with a squandered scoring chance.  If the fierce competitiveness that permeates every other aspect of his game were to be applied to taking the puck to the net, Richards could be elevated in the view of the hockey world to the Steve Yzerman or Joe Sakic plateau.

Make no mistake, when Jeff Carter went down over the weekend with a fracture in his left foot, it was a crushing blow.  Not only did Carter lead Philadelphia in goals with 33, he was the most consistent offensive threat that the team has had throughout the entire year.  His 11 goals in the last 16 games before his injury on Sunday were a godsend for the Orange and Black, and he will be sorely missed.  The good news is that if the Flyers can get themselves into the playoffs, Carter should be available to return sometime during the first round.

That being said, Carter’s injury cannot be used as an excuse.  Look no further than the Ottawa Senators as an example of a team that could have had a reason to use injuries as a crutch.  When they lost both Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson at the same time for a three week long stretch, their team survived.

At a time when they could have folded their tents, the foot soldiers all stepped forward and upped their games and contributions.  Mike Fisher, Chris Kelly, Ryan Shannon, and even Alexei Kovalev, among others, took turns contributing at key times.  The Senators stayed afloat and hit their stride when Spezza and Alfredsson returned.  That’s what good teams do when times get tough.

This is the time when all of the points the Flyers lost with blown leads late in contests and squandered points in nonchalant efforts are hanging over the team’s collective head like the Sword of Damocles.  And much like games last season in which points were lost, including on the season’s last day when the NY Rangers defeated Philadelphia at the Wachovia Center on a Blair Betts (yes, the same Blair Betts that plays for the Flyers now) goal late in regulation.  The regulation loss meant that Philly finished a point behind their first round opponent, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and it cost the Flyers precious home-ice advantage.  The eventual Stanley Cup Champion Pens got the jump in Pittsburgh and ousted the Orange and Black in 6 games.

Coach Peter Laviolette and GM Paul Holmgren must be hoping that their foot soldiers are at the ready to make the move and start contributing on a consistent basis.  In addition to the above-mentioned players, Philadelphia could use more down the stretch from Darroll Powe (8 goals), Ian Laperriere (3 goals), Daniel Carcillo (10 goals), Betts (8 goals), rookie James van Riemsdyk (14 goals), Ville Leino (1 goal in 6 games), and Arron Asham (7 goals).

In addition to a litany of No-Trade Clauses on his roster, I firmly believe that Holmgren didn’t make any deals at the NHL trade dealine because when you look at the lineup, the offense should be there.  It’s all a matter of just getting the right combination and chemistry between linemates, and Laviolette has his work cut out for him over the last 9 games of the regular season.

And all the while, a season that could go either way hangs in the balance.

David Strehle
NHLHS Flyers Correspondent / NHL Writer
dstrehle@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @PhilaDAVEia

Keith’s point per dollar averages out to be $27,830.20 per point. As a defenseman, and a possible Norris Trophy candidate this season, Keith’s cost efficiency should not surprise many.

Keith developed into an offensive threat, while still defending his zone (often playing against the league’s best players every game).

The sturdy reliable defenseman broke his career (goals) high in January. He now has eleven goals; however, his real ability remains setting up his teammates for goals.

Although the Blackhawks resigned Keith to a 13-year ($72 million) contract this past December, his cap hit this year remains $1,475,000. The young defenseman will (most likely) finish his career with the Blackhawks, but his cost per point will become more expensive next season. For now, Keith sits among the league’s best producing players.

Even though Alexander Ovechkin, Henrik Sedin, and Sidney Crosby are the top three in the league in points, two of them (Crosby and Ovechkin) are in the bottom ten for points per dollar.

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks appear very cost-efficient (Patrick Kane ranks 11^th for points per dollar, while Jonathan Toews sits behind Kane at 12^th and Patrick Sharp comes in 19^th). Overall, at least up until this point in the season, Chicago reins supreme.

Back in November, Rich Peverley of Atlanta ranked as the best cost effective player in the league. His cap hit of 487,500 (even though he signed a new contract this season) caused his points per dollar to be $21,195.65. Now, his points per dollar status is $11,079.50, but he sits in the 66^th spot in points in the league.

As this article focuses on the top fifty scorers, Keith remains the most cost-efficient scorer.

Katlyn Gambill

NHLHS Featured Writer
kgambill@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @freezethepuck

Atlantic Division:

• Martin Brodeur said he would have stayed in the game had the Devils had a legitimate chance of coming back to beat the Islanders in the third period Monday afternoon. Instead, the Devils made the move to backup Yann Danis to start the third period.
• Alexander Pechurski, the 19-year-old whose precocious performance between the pipes in Vancouver was the lone bright spot in Saturday’s loss, won’t be in the lineup when the New York Islanders visit Mellon Arena tonight.
• Tempting as it might be for Jim Dolan, Glen Sather and John Tortorella to fantasize about adding Vincent Lecavalier to the Broadway marquee, it is imperative that the Three Wise Men just say no if and when the Rangers are given their shot at trading for the Tampa Bay center, who visits the Garden tonight.
• Less than a week after dismantling the Red Wings, the Islanders made easy work of Brodeur and the Devils, beating the Atlantic Division leaders 4-0 yesterday at Nassau Coliseum. It was their fourth straight win and fifth in a row at home.
• In baseball, Boston’s Jason Varitek is the only one to physically wear a “C” on his uniform. In the NBA, 22 out of 30 teams have captains – but few actually wear it on their jerseys. It’s essentially a license to talk to the referee. In the NFL, four different players wear the “C” for each team – which simply gives them the ability to call a timeout or respond to an official.

Northeast Division:

• It was clear from the outset what the fans wanted. With loud cheers during introductions and cameras flashing during warm-ups, the fans wanted to see the Buffalo Sabres take the ice and storm the desert.
• On the team’s first father-son trip, he got to see his son return from a separated left shoulder, score a goal and two assists to lead the Senators past the Montreal Canadiens, and then do something no other Senator has been able to do: slay the dragon known as Tim Thomas.
• After going toe-to-toe with three talented teams out west in what was an emotionally satisfying road trip, the B’s came home and crashed into a wall at TD Garden, losing to the Ottawa Senators, 5-1, behind Daniel Alfredsson’s hat trick.
• The crowd had pretty much slipped away, Friday afternoon’s tour complete. And now Yvan Cournoyer was walking leisurely toward the exit of the Canadiens’ impressive new Hall of Fame, reminders of his glittering career on show in Bell Centre display cases on his left and right.
• Even before he arrived in Nashville, Luke Schenn had been in contact with Predators star defenceman Shea Weber. The two – who go back to Schenn’s rookie season with the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets in 2005 – had been on their phones, chatting and texting.

Southeast Division:

• The Washington Capitals look at the Detroit Red Wings, their next opponent, and see 11 championships, including four Stanley Cups in 12 seasons. They see 55 playoff appearances and seminal Hall of Famers from a franchise that has been winning with more regularity than any other in the NHL, and they recognize the vast separation between themselves and the current industry standard.
• Defenseman Dennis Seidenberg was headed to the penalty box and the Thrashers would pull their goalie for a two-man advantage the final 1:19. As they did all night, though, the Panthers shut them down.
• Thrashers defenseman Christoph Schubert missed Monday’s game against Florida with a lower-body injury. Schubert suffered the injury Saturday against Carolina, coach John Anderson said. Schubert was unable to take part in the team’s morning skate Monday.
• Lightning coach Rick Tocchet said that because Steve Downie has been one of the team’s best players the past couple of weeks, the right wing has earned more playing time and a spot on the top line.
• A third-period spark from forward Chad LaRose, who returned to the lineup on his bobblehead night after missing 17 games, was not enough. The Tampa Bay Lightning never trailed in a 3-2 win, handing the Carolina Hurricanes their third straight loss at the RBC Center on Monday night.

Anthony Curatolo
NHLHS Senior Writer
acuratolo@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @ACHockeyGuys

The title says it all.  This article will be no more than a comprehensive list of NHL (and some other players owned by NHL teams) players set to participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

For the sake of clarity we have sorted players by team.  Minor league players in red, injured players in blue.

Anaheim Ducks (8) – Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Scott Niedermayer, Teemu Selanne, Saku Koivu, Jonas Hiller, Bobby Ryan, Luca Sbisa

Atlanta Thrashers (5) – Ilya Kovalchuk, Maxim Afinogenov, Ondrej Pavelec, Pavel Kubina, Tobias Enstrom

Boston Bruins (6) – Patrice Bergeron, Marco Sturm, Tim Thomas, David Krejci, Zdeno Chara, Miroslav Satan

Buffalo Sabres (4) – Toni Lydman, Ryan Miller, Henrik Tallinder, Andrej Sekera

Calgary Flames (3) – Jarome Iginla, Miikka Kiprusoff, Olli Jokinen

Carolina Hurricanes (3) – Eric Staal, Joni Pitkanen, Tuomo Ruutu

Chicago Blackhawks (6) – Brent Seabrook, Duncan Keith, Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Marian Hossa, Tomas Kopecky

Colorado Avalanche (3) – Paul Stastny, Peter Budaj, Ruslan Salei

Columbus Blue Jackets (6) – Rick Nash, Jan Hejda, Samuel Pahlsson, Fredrik Modin, Milan Jurcina, Fedor Tyutin

Dallas Stars (4) – Brenden Morrow, Jere Lehtinen, Loui Eriksson, Karlis Skrastins

Detroit Red Wings (7) – Valtteri Filppula, Brian Rafalski, Niklas Kronwall, Nicklas Lidstrom,  Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsyuk, Tomas Holmstrom

Edmonton Oilers (2) - Lubomir Visnovsky, Denis Grebeshkov

Florida Panthers (2) -  Dennis Seidenberg, Tomas Vokoun

Los Angeles Kings (5) – Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson, Jon Quick, Dustin Brown, Michal Handzus

Minnesota Wild (5) – Niklas Backstrom, Mikko Koivu, Antti Miettinen, Marek Zidlicky, Martin Havlat

Montreal Canadiens (6) – Tomas Plekanec, Yannick Weber, Jaroslav Halak, Andrei Markov, Sergei Kostitsyn, Andrei Kostitsyn

Nashville Predators (6) – Alexander Sulzer, Shea Weber, Marcel Goc, Ryan Suter, Martin Erat, Patric Hornqvist

New Jersey Devils (6) – Martin Brodeur, Paul Martin, Zach Parise, Jamie Langenbrunner, Patrik Elias, Johnny Oduya

New York Islanders (1) – Mark Streit

New York Rangers (5) – Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Henrik Lundqvist, Andres Ambuhl, Marian Gaborik

Philadelphia Flyers (5) – Chris Pronger, Mike Richards, Kimmo Timonen, Oskars Bartulis, Ole-Kristian Tollefsen

Pittsburgh Penguins (5) – Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Marc Andre Fleury, Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik

Phoenix Coyotes (3) – Sami Lepisto, Zbynek Michalek, Ilya Bryzgalov

Ottawa Senators (6) – Jarkko Ruutu, Filip Kuba, Milan Michalek, Daniel Alfredsson, Kaspars Daugavins, Anton Volchenkov

San Jose Sharks (8) – Dan Boyle, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Dany Heatley, Douglas Murray, Thomas Greiss, Joe Pavelski, Evgeni Nabokov

St. Louis Blues (3) – Eric Johnson, David Backes, Roman Polak

Tampa Bay Lightning (5) – Antero Niittymaki, Ryan Malone, Mattias Ohlund, Martins Karsums, Andrej Meszaros

Toronto Maple Leafs (6) – Jonas Gustavsson, Mikhail Grabovski, Phil Kessel, Tomas Kaberle, Mike Komisarek, Niklas Hagman

Vancouver Canucks (7) -  Roberto Luongo, Sami Salo, Christian Ehrhoff, Pavol Demitra, Ryan Kesler, Henrik Sedin, Daniel Sedin

Washington Capitals (4) Tomas Fleischmann, Nicklas Backstrom, Semyon Varlamov, Alexander Ovechkin

-Alexander Monaghan
NHLHS Founder
amonaghan@nhlhotstove.com
Twitter: @NHLHotStove

The latest from Bruce Garrioch of The Ottawa Sun discusses the injury to Daniel Alfredsson as well as the need to replace his production in the lineup.  After sustaining a hit from Craig Adams on Wednesday, the Senators captain expects to miss a few weeks with a bum shoulder.  The 37-year-old joins pivot Jason Spezza and wing Nick Foligno in the press box as they continue to recover from their own ailments while Chris Neil, Shean Donovan and Pascal Leclaire all returned to the lineup a mere three days ago.

Although center Josh Hennessy initially gets a call up, the rookie definitely is not and will not be the solution.  If this team is to stay within the playoff picture they must make a move quickly and patch the gaping hole in their top six.

Garrioch may be onto something for once with his article.  The controversial reporter discusses the merits of trading for Christopher Higgins or Alexander Frolov, both impending free agents after the season.

Both aforementioned players make a significant salary which by consensus diminishes their trade value.  Higgins carries a 2.25 million cap hit, a lofty price for a winger with 10 points through 36 games.  On the other hand, the Kings hold a 2.9 million cap hit for their Russian winger but show little motivation to move him if they want to go deep into the playoffs.  Frolov certainly warrants stronger trade value as he projects to put up 55 points on the season or 32 points in his remaining 46 games.

Still if Lomabardi feels he cannot resign his 27-year-old winger, shipping him out may be the smart bet.  At this point every Russian player in the League is a flight risk.  Similar to Nikolai Zherdev this past offseason, Frolov could price himself out of the country and sign with a team in his motherland.

What would Frolov demand as purely a playoff rental?  The offer would need to knock GM Dean Lombardi’s socks off in order to force his hand, but anything is possible. With Higgins at a such a low trade value, the Rangers could choose not to move him instead moving the often scratched Ales Kotalik.

Hope you enjoyed our latest trade rumors feature. You can help NHLHS stay alive by visiting our sponsors to the left.

Follow me on Twitter for up-to-the-minute updates

-Alexander Monaghan
NHLHS Founder
thehotstove@gmail.com