Light the Lamp - a Columbus Blue Jackets blog

This and that

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 18:16:00 +0000

Just a couple of things to pass along on a fine 4th of July.

Here are a couple of nuggets passed along to me from a very reliable source:

* Derick Brassard has gained 12 pounds this offseason.

* Hitch on Samuel Pahlsson - he is a big pain the in ass to play against.

* Hitch expects Klesla to take a big step and have a big year. Thinks he's capable and it never hurts that its a contract year.

Just going back to the Umberger snub for a sec. A adult hockey teammate of mine (shout out to Tyler) made a couple of good points about the Umbeger snub that I thought were interesting.

1. Brian Burke is in charge of the US Olympic team. Brian Burke was also the GM of the Vancouver Canucks who drafted Umberger #16 overall back in 2001. If you recall Umberger never did end up signing with the Canucks due to terms and sat out a season to become an unrestricted free agent which led to him eventually signing with the Flyers.

Think Burke forgot about that?

2. Former Ohio State Buckeye and Umberger teammate Ryan Kesler was chosen for the camp. Umberger and Kesler are rumored to have not gotten along.

Something to chew on.

Be sure to check out these vids from Blue Jackets TV:

Happy 4th everyone!

-LTL

Nash Headlines

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 03:29:00 +0000

I always have fun with these!

-LTL

Captain Cash!

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:49:00 +0000

In case you haven't heard yet the Dispatch is reporting the following:

The Blue Jackets have signed captain Rick Nash to an eight-year, $62.4 million contract extension, The Dispatch has learned. That's an annual cap hit of $7.8 million.

The deal will keep Nash under contract with the Blue Jackets through the 2017-18 season.

I would assume that deal is front loaded but we'll have to wait until we see the year by year breakdown. I would also assume there is a no movement clause.

Update: Puck-rakers has provided new details on the contract:

Nash will make $7 million in 2009-10, the final year of his current contract. He'll make $7.5 million in 2010-11, and the contract goes up slightly each season before Nash makes $8.2 million in 2017-18.

In other words:

2010-2011 - $7.5M
2011-2012 - $7.6M
2012-2013 - $7.7M
2013-2014 - $7.8M
2014-2015 - $7.9M
2015-2016 - $8.0M
2016-2017 - $8.1M
2017-2018 - $8.2M

The deal includes a no-movement clause in the first five seasons, and a modified no-trade clause in the final three.

Initial reaction:

* Thank gawd we can put that behind us!!

* Congrats to Rick Nash and Scott Howson for hunkering down and getting this done. There was no need for anymore public dirty laundy.

* Thrilled to have Nash in the fold for the next 8 seasons where he belongs.

* Average cap hit of 7.8 is about right. Looks like both sides compromised and Nash left a little cash on the table to help Howson and the franchise keep their other young studs in the fold for the foreseeable future.

* I thought they would wait until Monday to announce the deal to maximize the media expsure. Announcing now though stops dead in its tracks the speculation from loud mouth fans like me and the Toronto media megaforce. On second thought, it makes perfect sense to announce it immediately!

* I only want to see Nash's "dark side" again if it has to do with the Detroit Red Wings combined with the 'f-bomb'.

* I think I'm gonna celebrate by drinking about 8 beers tonight... one for each year of the deal.

* Vermette your next... then Klesla!

* That's 3 of 4 offseason priorities with a big fat CHECK in the to-do box for Howson & Co.

* Next up.. trade for d-man.

* Now what MacLean?

* Eat it Toronto!

It's time to set sail Captain Columbus.

Go Jackets!!

-LTL

Poor Poor Pitiful Me

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:45:00 +0000

First Schenn now Nash. Poor Burke.

-LTL

Grading the first day of free agency

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:15:00 +0000

The Jackets have 4 primary needs this offseason.

1. Sign Rick Nash to an extension
2. Find a puck-moving d-man that ideally can help a struggling PP
3. Sign a quality backup goaltender - CHECK!
4. Sign a 3rd line center - CHECK!

They accomplished 2 of these goals in free agency when it opened on July 1st.

The first move of the day.

Checking center Sammy Pahlsson signed to a 3 year 7.65 million dollar deal.

Pahlsson's file:
Age: 31
Date of birth: December 17, 1977
Place of birth: Ange, Sweden
Ht: 6-0 Wt: 203
Shoots: L
Salary: $1,400,000
NHL Seasons: 8
Drafted by Colorado in 1996 (7/176).

ASSETS: Has good instincts and defensive prowess. Is strong on his skates and works hard. Excels in defensive situations.
FLAWS: Needs to produce more points at the NHL level. Doesn't shoot enough when in good scoring position.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line center.

Reward:
* When healthy Pahlsson is an elite checking shut down center. He is the kind of guy Hitch will feel extremely comfortable putting out late in games.
* Adds much needed depth down the center of the ice.
* Guy knows how to win in the playoffs. He won a cup with Anaheim in '06 and was part of the Western Conference Finals run for the Blackhawks last season.
* Its always a positive when a player chooses to come to your team.
* This guy is a Hitch-type player. He competes all over the ice.

Risk:
* Can he stay healthy? He missed a good chunk of last season with a viral infection.
* What's up with the negative +/-? I know he goes against the other teams top players but a -17 last season for a top shutdown centerman?
* Overpayment. I don't think there is any question Columbus overpaid Pahlsson by at least 500k.
* How does a contract like this impact re-signing a guy like Vermette who I think has to be the next priority after Nash?
* Not going to contribute much offensively (the guy has never scored over 26 points in his career) which primarily concerns me if we lose Brass or Vermette to an extended injury.

Final Thoughts:
Its a solid move. Clearly the Jackets targeted Pahlsson after they failed to get Malhotra under contract. They may have overpaid but that is how it works in free agency. They got their man and in the process filled a big hole in the center of their lineup. He is definitely an upgrade over Manny defensively which is the role Hitch will maximize his ability for. He also knows how to raise his level of play in the playoffs which Manny failed to do.

My biggest concern is what happens if Brass or Vermette go down with an extended injury? Can Pahlsson be effective with a stretch in the top 6? He can't be worse than Manny can he?

Grade: B+

The second move of the day:

Backup goaltender Mathieu Garon signed to a 2 year 2.4 million dollar deal.

Garon's file:
Age: 31
Date of birth: January 09, 1978
Place of birth: Chandler, Que., Canada
Ht: 6-2 Wt: 207
Catches: R
Salary: $1,000,000
NHL Seasons: 8
Drafted by Montreal in 1996 (2/44).

ASSETS: Has tremendous poise. Shows an excellent glove hand. Is a hard worker and displays the ability to bounce back from adversity.
FLAWS: Must prove capable of handling the pressure of playing major minutes. Does he have the demeanor of an above-average NHL starting netminder?
CAREER POTENTIAL: No. 1A goalie.

Reward:
* Garon has over 204 starts in the NHL with a career Save% of .905 and a GAA of 2.84. He has 94 wins to 83 losses. Solid numbers.
* Garon should be capable of finding the trust of the coaching staff and playing in 15 to 20 games giving Steve Mason the critical rest he'll need.
* Should Mase go down to an extended injury or battle the sophmore slump Garon has proven he can handle a starter's load making 47 starts for Edmonton in 07/08 and 63 starts for LA in 05/06.
* Had an injury free season last year.
* Howson is very familiar with Garon from both of their days in Edmonton so he's had an up close view of what kind of person he is and how his personality will mesh with Mase and the team.
* He's a guy capable of pushing Steve Mason. Competition is never a bad thing.
* He's a right handed glove just like Mase -- to have two goalies who catch right is a rarity in this league.
* He didn't contribute a whole lot to it but he did win a cup with the Penguins this past season. Never hurts to bring in a winning attitude.
* Like Pahlsson, he's choosing to come to Columbus. Always a plus with me.

Risk:
* For the dough I personally like some of the other options better. Especially Clemmensen, Anderson and Conklin.
* His stats the past few seasons have been less than impressive. Last year he finished with .894 Save% and a 3.12 GAA. That said he was a 19-8-9 in his starts so he was winning.
* With the exception of last year he has had a few injuries. Missed 9 games due to a finger in 07. 5 games due to an ankle in 08. 12 games due to groin in 06. Need him to stay healthy.
* Another guy I think we overpaid by a few hundred thousand. Also would have preferred him on a 1 year deal in case Lalande/LaCosta are ready (could always trade him I guess).

Final thoughts:
At first I wasn't that excited with this move. I put a lot of stock in goaltending, even backups, because the position is so important to achieve success. I liked some other backups more who got similar deals. The more I thought about it though the more I've come around.

The Jackets clearly needed a seasoned NHL backup with lots of starts under his belt. They certainly got one in Mathieu Garon. Howson is very familiar with this player which gives me confidence as he puts a lot of value in character in addition to ability. He should fit nicely with this group. Like Pahlsson he was overpaid by a couple hunder thousand but so it goes in free agency (I mean what first day signee isn't overpaid right?).

My biggest concern are his recent numbers but I am very impressed with his W/L record for last season. The W/L record tells me he's making the big saves when they matter to preserve wins.

Grade: B

Players signed - 20
Total committed salary - $47.166
Projected player payroll - $50.000
Estimated remainder - $02.834

Overall in terms of the moves made I give Howson a solid B. Nothing spectacular but just some solid depth moves that address direct holes in the Blue Jackets lineup. Yes he overpaid but not horribly and as I stated, everyone overpays on the first day of free agency as they to try get their guys.

Probably the biggest surprise for me was the fact he was so active. In fact I didn't think he'd sign anyone on day 1 as we had heard that he was going to be very patient. Uhh.. wrong!

Speaking of lineup. Here is my latest projection:

Nash Brassard Huselius
Umberger Vermette Voracek
*Modin/Chimera Pahlsson Torres
Boll/Dorsett Murray ***Filatov

Commodore Hejda
Tyutin **XX
Russell Klesla
Methot

Mason
Garon

*A winger will need to move.
** I expect a trade to be made for a top 4 puck moving d-man.
***Filatov takes the Voracek path. Starts the season on the 4th with PP duty and earns his way up the lineup as he gains the coaches trust.

Fire away - be sure to place your votes in the poll or comment below!

-LTL

Lets get defensive

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:06:00 +0000

Jack Johnson
Age: 22
Date of birth: January 13, 1987
Place of birth: Indianapolis, IN, USA
Ht: 6-1 Wt: 212
Shoots: L
Salary: $850,000
NHL Seasons: 3
Drafted by Carolina in 2005 (1/3).
Acquired in a trade with Carolina in 2006.

ASSETS: Possesses good size, excellent all-around instincts, physical prowess and offensive potential. Is never shy about laying on the body.
FLAWS: Needs to avoid putting himself out of position in order to land the big hit. May never reach the lofty offensive expectations placed upon him.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Skilled, physical top-pairing defenseman.

Last year's stats: 41 6 5 11 -18 46

Denis Grebshkov
Age: 25
Date of birth: October 11, 1983
Place of birth: Yaroslavl, USSR (now Russia)
Ht: 6-0 Wt: 209
Shoots: L
Salary: $1,500,000
NHL Seasons: 4

ASSETS: Is well rounded and intelligent. Isn't shy about laying on the body and displays untapped offensive potential. Can log plenty of ice time.
FLAWS: Must prove capable of hanging with power forwards in the pros. Must avoid trying to do too much.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Top six defenseman.

Stats: 72 7 32 39 12 38

Cam Barker
Age: 23
Date of birth: April 04, 1986
Place of birth: Winnipeg, Man., Canada
Ht: 6-3 Wt: 222
Shoots: L
Salary: $984,200
NHL Seasons: 4

ASSETS: Possesses a hard, accurate shot from the point, which is especially effective on the power play. Can play physical, which scouts also love.
FLAWS: Must improve his skating and defensive-zone coverage in order to become a complete blueliner. Needs more game-to-game consistency.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Top four defenseman.

Stas: 68 6 34 40 -6 65

Now I certainly don't see Howson hitting any of these players with an offer sheet but I could see some scenarios where perhaps they become available. Barker and Grebshkov play for teams pushing the cap... while Johnson may have just worn out his welcome in LA.

Speaking of Johnson...I also just read this from HFBoards:

Buccigross on my facebook page:

John Michael Buccigross For my puckhead friends..my nhl sources say the los angeles kings are shopping jack johnson hard as a result of signing Rob Scuderi today. Boston? Ottawa? Anaheim? stay tuned

I would be interested in any of these three if they were put on the table. A winger would at a minimum have to go in the other direction plus either a high pick or top 10 prospect and maybe more.

Its too bad they all shoot left though.

Anyhow..just some names to consider as Howson scours the market looking for a d-man.

UPDATE: How about this article about the 'hawks:

This is Hawks GM Dale Tallon talking Thursday afternoon: “We’re looking for the right guy, maybe on the back end. We have a lot of assets we can trade.”

This is how I believe the Hawks are going to find that big, physical defenseman they are lacking, via a trade, and Tallon came about as close as he could to confirming it.

Two things working heavily against a move with the 'hawks.

One they are a division rival and in very rare cases do you see big deals between two teams in the same division.

This author suggests they would like to move a forward to clear room for one of their younger lower priced kids. The Jackets of course would like to move a fowards as well. Still I would expect Howson to at least kick the tires on Barker as something has to give on that team. They also have Calder nominee Kris Versteeg to sign.

-LTL

This and that

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:43:00 +0000

ESPN has released their ultimate standings for the four major professional sports leagues in North America.

The Jackest check in at a very respectable 31:

Last Year's Rank: 52
Title Track: 73
Ownership: 31
Coaching: 9
Players: 51
Fan Relations: 9
Affordability: 29
Stadium Experience: 9
Bang for the Buck: 64

Gone but not forgotten is late (1923-2008) owner John H. McConnell. Inside the popular Nationwide Arena's Front Street entrance and before you reach the 12-foot, 1,600-pound working cannon -- it goes off every time the home team scores -- is a memorial honoring the man who brought pro hockey to Ohio's capital in 2000. Among the tributes? The first Jackets jersey (McConnell 01) and a photo of the founding father from his football days at Michigan State. Sure, Columbus is Buckeyes country, but the Spartans pic gets love because McConnell is wearing No. 61, just like four-time All-Star Rick Nash, the face of the franchise. That face is morphing though, thanks to magicianlike young goalie Steve Mason (the ROY winner with a league-leading 10 shutouts), center R.J. Umberger (the team's first Ohio Stater skater) and D-man Mike Commodore. Not included, unfortunately, is a group shot of fans wearing Sideshow Bob-style red Afro wigs in tribute to Commodore's unruly mop. Add it up, mixing in bulletproof bench boss Ken Hitchcock, who's a Civil War geek to boot, and it's easy to see why the Blue Jackets not only made their first playoff appearance but also have their highest rank since the Standings started. That ought to help JHM RIP.

Love to see the cannon getting some recognition... but just imagine if our game ops was good!

Michael Arace has a nice blog post about the Nash situation. Check out the list he grabbed from nhlnumbers.com (which I can't get to work) in terms of the highest paid players in the league:

1. Ovechkin, $9.538M per through 2020-21.
2. Crosby, $8.7M per through 2012-13.
3. Malkin, $8.7M per through 2013-14.
4. E. Staal, $8.25M per through 2015-16.
5. Richards, $7.8M per through 2010-11.
6. Lecavalier, $7.727M per through 2019-20.
7. Heatley, $7.5M per through 2013-14.
8. Chara, $7.5M per through 2010-11.
9. Gaborik, $7.5M per through 2013-14.
10. Lidstrom, $7.45M per through 2009-10.
11. Gomez, $7.357 per through 2013-14.
12. J. Thornton, $7.2M per through 2010-11.
13. Vanek, $7.147 per through 2013-14.
14. T. Campbell, $7.14M per through 2015-16.
15. Drury, $7.05M per through 2011-12.
16. Spezza, $7.0M per through 2014-15.
17. Iginla, $7.0M per through 2012-13.
18. Lundqvist, $6.875M per through 2013-14.
19. Kopitar, $6.8M per through 2015-16.
20. Luongo, $6.75M per through 2009-10.
21. Datsyuk, $6.7M per through 2013-14.
22. Bouwmeester, $6.68M per through 2013-14.
23. Boyle, $6.667M per through 2013-14.
24. Stastny, $6.6M per through 2013-14.
25. Briere, $6.5M per through 2014-15.
26. Redden, $6.5M per through 2013-14.
27. Phaneuf, $6.5M per through 2013-14.
28. Jovanovski, $6.5M per through 2010-11.
29. Kovalchuk, $6.4M per through 2009-10.

We know Nash is worth more than stats to this team but by the numbers he finished 18th overall in league scoring with 79 points in 78 games. His 40 goals were good for 5th in the league.

You be the judge on where you think Nash should slot in on that list.

Puck-daddy's thoughts on the Jackets moves:

The Columbus Blue Jackets had a very good day, getting Samuel Pahlsson (notes) as their checking center for $7.95 million over three years and Mathieu Garon (notes) for $2.4 million over two years. The BeeJays used to have zippy up the middle; now, their centers might go four-deep next year for the first time in franchise history.

I'll have much more on these two acquisitions over the next few days. Unfortunately the Nash news has smashed my time to post some thoughts on em.

Camping.

Just a few comments on the 1/2 session of camp I was able to catch yesterday.

Moore - what a skill set. His skating reminded me of Russell's but with a bigger frame. His puck skills were good as well. A nice package that just needs some time to bake.

Vougelhuber - was the best forward during my viewing potting a couple of nice goals on Lalande. Much better than last year but still a ways to go. Unfortunately he took a nasty shot in the leg as he was crossing the ice with the puck. He had to be helped off the ice and did not return. Remember he has a history of bad leg injuries.

Calvert - absolutely love this kid. He's fast, smart and "darty". His game reminds me of someone's but I just can't put a finger on it yet.

Legein - blended in and as a 2nd round pick you should not blend in with this group.

Goloubef - just so smooth and confident. He did get caught up the ice one time looking for a hit but other than that mistake he look good in all areas.

Lynch - nothing spectacular but very consistant. Didn't see him make a bad play or flub a pass during the entire practice.

Delisle - skating has improved. Reminds me of Hall Gill and not sure if that is a good or bad thing. Lots of room to fill out that frame.

Neuber - not nearly as bad of a player as I was expecting. Worked pretty hard out there. Didn't look out of place. Be interesting to see what he can do when he can drop em.

I only really got to see half of the group up close. I only keyed in on a few guys as you can see so please take with grains of salt!

-LTL

Deal or No Deal

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:37:00 +0000

Even after sleeping on it I am still in shock over Nash's quotes from last night's Dispatch. Let's take a look at them again:

“Things didn’t line up the way I anticipated them lining up,” Nash said. “I thought we had a solid chance of getting (a contract) done, especially with all the interest they said they had going into this.

“If this doesn’t happen in the next week, and we can’t hit a number where we’re both satisfied and we both feel it’s fair … if they want me that bad, they’ll get it done.”

“There were tons of teams throwing some pretty big money around (yesterday),” Nash said. “If this doesn’t get done, I’m sure I won’t have a problem getting signed by somebody next summer.”

“This is part of the process,” Resnick said. “We’ve begun, and we’ll continue to work through and reach an agreement.”

“The Blue Jackets have a blue print for the organization, and what they want to do with it,” Nash said. “If the numbers don’t work out, if they don’t match, that’s just the way the business side works.

“We’ll come back with something and see what they have to say. I would be nicer to be closer, but I have another year either way. I’m in no rush. I can play out the season.”

I read those again and I still cannot believe those comments actually came from the Rick Nash we have gotten to know through the media over the years but they did.

Portzline checks in this morning with a reality check post.

This is a high-profile negotiation, and Nash holds all of the leverage.

At some point, Nash had to play his leverage. At some point, he has to put the fear of God into the Blue Jackets and put a little heat on GM Scott Howson.

The first contract offer was well below what he expected/wants, so he played his cards. It’s a side that few have seen of Nash, and I don’t know that it came naturally to him. But these situations are not, by their nature, always clean and friendly.

Nash has lots of people looking at him to sign the “right” contract. The NHLPA would not look kindly on the matter if he signed a deal at less than $7 million per season. That’s what he’s making in 2009-10, so why should he take a paycut.

Some decent points.

First off I'd really love to know what Howson's first offer was. As I stated in the live blog last night, that would tell us an awful lot without having to say an awful lot.

Without that knowledge let's get to some theories as to why Nash would come out swinging so hard so early in this negotiation.

Theory 1
Howson really did lowball Nash with an offer. Nash then looked at what guys like Gaborik got (7.5 mil) and got angry when he compared it to what Howson offered.

Theory 2
He wants out and to stall stall stall...and I don't mean Eric, Jordan or Mark. This is the first step towards an stage left exit out of Columbus.

Theory 3
More leverage/posturing/hardball. Nash coached by agent to come out heavy regardless of initial offer after he previously publicly announced his desire to stay in Columbus. They thought Nash hurt his value and negotiating position by going public with intention to stay. All about maximizing the contract.

Theory 4
Backdoor tampering. A GM like Brian Burke has used backdoor channels to get to Nash to let him know what kind of offer they would make should he hit the free agent market.

Theory 5
Good cop bad cop. Nash's plays the bad guy while Nash's agent plays the good guy.

Admittedly some of those are pretty far fetched.

Until I know what the offer Howson made was I won't speculate any further other than to say that whatever the deal was I don't agree with getting so ugly so quick. There are better more productive ways to posture.

I mean c'mon, it's a negotation. You don't go in with your best offer first and you don't accept anyone's first offer. Of course you also don't want to be insulting which is why again, its real hard to speculate on the intentions here without getting some cold hard numbers in front of us.

Business or no business... this entire rant from #61 is completely out of character for him and just doesn't fit or add up... I mean hello square meet circle.

I really believe Nash is a good guy but money has a way of bringin the worst out of some folks. Well that or a player's agent has a way of getting the worst of someone.

As much as we fans love chewing on this fodder I think both sides would be well served to keep this entire thing behind closed doors until common ground is found.... which I hope is found quickly because you better believe this has created a whole lot of negative attention around this team yet again this offseason.

Stay tuned as I'm sure this is only chapter 1 in this saga.

Update: These figures are courtesy of eplagge. They are the most expensive signings this offseason:

Gaborik, Marian $37.5M 5 $7.5M
Bouwmeester, Jay $33.4M 5 $6.68M
Sedin, Henrik $30.5M 5 $6.1M
Sedin, Daniel $30.5M 5 $6.1M
Cammalleri, Mike $30M 5 $6M
Niedermayer, Scott $6M 1 $6M
Hossa, Marian $62.8M 12 $5.23M
Havlat, Martin $30M 6 $5M
Gionta, Brian $25M 5 $5M
Thomas, Tim $20M 4 $5M
Komisarek, Mike $22.50 5 $4.5M
Booth, David $25.5M 6 $4.25M
Antropov, Nik $16M 4 $4M

Fire away - thoughts on this negotiation thus far?

-LTL

Mason and Nash make Team Canada camp roster

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:54:00 +0000

Just read that Nash and Mason have been named to Team Canada's Olypmic camp roster.

The forwards:
Jeff Carter, Philadelphia; Dan Cleary, Detroit; Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh; Shane Doan, Phoenix; Simon Gagne, Philadelphia; Ryan Getzlaf, Anaheim; Dany Heatley, Ottawa; Jarome Iginla, Calgary; Vincent Lecavalier, Tampa Bay; Milan Lucic, Boston; Patrick Marleau, San Jose; Andy McDonald, St. Louis; Brenden Morrow, Dallas; Rick Nash, Columbus; Corey Perry, Anaheim; Mike Richards, Philadelphia; Derek Roy, Buffalo; Joe Sakic, Colorado; Patrick Sharp, Chicago; Ryan Smyth, Colorado; Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay; Eric Staal, Carolina; Jordan Staal, Pittsburgh; Joe Thornton, San Jose; Jonathan Toews, Chicago

The goalies:
Martin Brodeur, New Jersey; Marc-Andre Fleury, Pittsburgh; Roberto Luongo, Vancouver; Steve Mason, Columbus; Cam Ward, Carolina

I honsetly didn't think Mase would be named but that is a great news!!

Congrats to both of these guys!

-LTL

Live Blog - 2009 UFA

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:30:00 +0000

Unrestricted Free Agency

Early fallout

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:11:00 +0000

As we wait for free agency to open at noon I wanted to make a few comments about a couple of the deals that have gone down and get your thoughts as well.

First this Jay Bouwmeester to Calgary deal.... and what a deal it was. To give up a 3rd round pick and sign this guy to a very respectable 5 year deal with a 6.6 million dollar cap hit is absolute highway robbery.

That said something has got to give to on that roster... and perhaps the Jackets could benefit.

Iginla: 7 mil
Kiprusoff: 7 mil
Bouwmeester: 6.6 mil
Phaneuf: 6.5 mil
Jokinen: 5.5 mil
Langkow: 4.25 mil
Sarich: 3.7
Regehr: 3.5

Total: 44.05

So 44 million tied up 8 players. That leaves roughly 12 million to fill out the remaining 12 players on a roster......and remember teams can carry up to 23 players.

This is a prime example of what Scott Howson was referring to when he said they will be "patient". I.E. teams will spend themselves right to the cap and then will need relief -- that is where Howson and the Jackets pounce looking to fill their holes, mainly a d-man. By trading for that asset the Jackets will in return essentially be trading them back that cap space relief.

Phaneuf would solve a huge problem here but he'll be too rich for Howson's blood. Other than that I don't see any names that would really interest the Jackets. Regehr and Sarich would be redundant on the Jackets roster unless other pieces are moved.

For the life of me I cannot figure out why Bob Gainey gave up so much to get Scott Gomez?

I know he was desperate for a center but the Rangers were in cap hell and just taking that albatross Gomez contract off their hands should been plenty enough..... but on top of that Gainey not only threw in a proven winger in Chris Higgins but his first round pick and #1 rated prospect from the 2007 draft Ryan McDonagh.

...and he did all of this before free agency even kicked off today at noon when he could have gotten a slew of players for just money. Why not wait to make such a big deal until after you see what you can reel in? I can't imagine free agents hinging their decision on whether or not Gomez is a part of the team.

This is the kind of deal that could get a GM fired.

Now look for the Rangers to make yet another splashy headline grabber that probably won't work out. I'm tellin ya, if I'm a UFA I steer clear of that town... Why? Look at Gomez... He signed a splashy deal two years ago and has already been dealt.

Thank god for the cap right? Without it the Wings would have signed Hossa by now. Who knows how many free agents the Rangers and Philly would be signing. The Flames would be stacked....on and on and on.

It may not be perfect but it has definitely leveled the playing field for markets like Columbus.

BIG BIG BIG day for Scott Howson and Rick Nash. My bet is the first offer has already been faxed over to Nash and the two sides are workin hard to hammer something out as we speak.

Again I don't expect a whole lot of activity from the Jackets today on the open market. Perhaps a backup goalie gets signed but my guess is that is about it. I still think they wait, let the big fish fall and then go bargain shoppin.

I'll be live bloggin starting around noon (or whenever I get back from prospect camp). Stop on by!

-LTL

Howson will show Nash the cash

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:08:00 +0000

Lots of good early signs coming from both the Jackets camp and the Nash camp today.

The Dispatch has some good info in an blog post and their chat session. Some highlights:

Puck-rakers:

Howson called the meeting to share with Nash and Resnick his vision for the Blue Jackets future: how the club will be built, where Nash fits in, how other clubs have been built with elite players, etc.

"I wanted Rick to see what we have planned and how big a part of it he is," Howson said. "We've had conversations before, but none of this length."

Both Howson and Resnick agreed that it's highly unlikely a contract extension will be signed on Wednesday.

"This is just the start of the process," Resnick said.

"I've come up right through the ranks, now the captain," Nash said. "I love the organization. I love everything about it. But it's a matter of business. Nobody wants to rob the other person, we just both want to be satisfied."

I like part from the chat from Portzline:

Just talking to Rick, he said he's torn between a 4 or 5 year deal and the idea of having a monster long-term deal, say in the 10-year range. I get the sense that he'd sign the latter if the money was right. My guess is he'll make in the $6.5M to $8M range per year. Cap hit around $7M to $7.5M.

The AP has a story up as well with some juicy quotes:

His agent, Joe Resnick, said Tuesday that Nash loves Columbus and the Blue Jackets. But that only goes so far.

"Confident of a deal? It's really up to the Blue Jackets," he said. "We're definitely going to listen and take in everything they have to say. Hopefully we can get a deal done."

"Obviously, he's what makes this car run," said 20-year-old goalie Steve Mason, the NHL's rookie of the year. "He's our leader. It'll be an important piece to get him signed, hopefully for a long term."

"Term is definitely a huge factor," Resnick said. "Rick could do a long-term deal, based on his age, and then come out of it at 33 or 34 and still have several years ahead of him."

"For us to make splashes in the free-agent market and for guys to want to come here, having his name signed long-term is a big important piece," forward R.J. Umberger said. "Nowadays anything is possible. People are moving around so much. You just never know. You just hope with these long contracts that they're doing these days that can help keep a player with a team for a long time."

If you're a fan of getting Rick Nash signed to a long term extension there are a ton of positives to be gleaned from quotes like these.

I have been following the NHL for a long time. Anyone who reads this blog knows I like to read into what is said and in a lot of cases, what isn't.

There have been a lot of negotiations that I have followed and to have both parties expressing such interest publicly liks these is an extremely good sign.

This is gonna get done folks.... and I think it's gonna get done very quickly.

Both sides are motivated.

Howson has the salary structure available to make Nash a very fair offer. He knows how important it is to keep his franchise player and captain happy and as the focal point of this franchise. He knows he is only going to get better. Remember he's only 25! Players like this absolutely do not come along oftern.

Nash is the captain and the franchise. He freely admits he loves the city. He sees the talent sprouting up all around him. He sees the direction. He sees the leadership. He sees the steps taken. The grass will not be greener elsewhere.

After reading the latest quotes from both sides, I'm now guessing Nash gets extended in that 8 to 10 year range. It will be front loaded and I agree with Portzline that it will be an average cap hit in the neighborhood of 7 to 8 mil.

It will be a helluva committment from both sides, but one that makes a helluva lot of sense.

Exciting times. Get it done boys.

-LTL

Umberger snubbed

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:44:00 +0000

I was just sent this link from Ryan. It's the USA Olympics camp invites:

Goaltenders: Ryan Miller, Jonathan Quick, Tim Thomas

Defencemen: Tom Gilbert, Tim Gleason, Ron Hainsey, Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson, Mike Komisarek, Paul Martin, Brooks Orpik, Brian Rafalski, Rob Scuderi, Ryan Suter, Ryan Whitney

Forwards: David Backes, David Booth, Dustin Brown, Dustin Byfuglien, Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, Patrick Kane, Ryan Kesler, Phil Kessel, Jamie Langenbrunner, Ryan Malone, Mike Modano, Kyle Okposo, T.J. Oshie, Zach Parise, Joe Pavelski, Bobby Ryan, Paul Stastny.

So let me get this straight. Umberger and his 26 goals (46 points) aren't invited over guys like Okposo (39 points), Oshie (39 points) and Callahan (40 points)? Those guys are some good young players with loads of potential but you can't tell me they would add more right now than an Umberger could for the 2010 US Olympic team.

He has done plenty to at least garner an invite to camp. His work alone in the playoffs shows he knows how to get it done when the games matter the most.

I'm sorry but what a crock of sh** for RJ.

-LTL

2009 Free Agency Preview - Centers

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:13:00 +0000

This is the third and final entry in a series of posts I will be presenting this offseason as we build up to the July 1st free agency period.

You can view the first entry on defensemen here.

You can view the second entry on goaltenders here.

This entry will focus on unrestricted free agent centers.

The Jackets appear to be set in their top 6 with both Derick Brassard and Antoinne Vermette expected to anchor those top two lines center slots.

What they need is to address their 3rd and 4th line center positions.

The organization would like to bring back Manny Malhotra to anchor that 3rd line but with July 1st being less than a day away the chances of that happening are slim.

Scott Howson has publicly stated that the organization will look to fill the 4th line center hole from within. The names of Mike Blunden, Derek MacKenzie, Andrew Murray and Derek Dorsett have been bandied about.

This post will focus on players that can fill that 3rd line center role. What the Jackets will be focusing on is a cost effective player that can shut down other team's top players, PK, win faceoffs and contribute some offensively.

If Malhotra ends up re-signing then this list becomes moot.

John Madden
ASSETS: Is an outstanding penalty-killer and versatile enough to play any role on a hockey club. Has great speed, sound fundamentals and an excellent work ethic.
FLAWS: At this point he will never put up huge numbers in the NHL, which makes him a less-than-ideal top six pivot. Can go long stretches without a point.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line center.

Age: 36
2008 stats: 76 7 16 23 -7 26
2008 salary: 2.93

Outlook: It looks like Madden's time in New Jersey has come to a close. I can see the Jackets being very interested in obtaining Madden's services. He is Hitch type competitor in every sense. He does alot of things extremely well. The questions are how much and how long? I can't see Howson going much higher than a 2 year 4 million dollar offer as he is 36 and his point production did take a sharp drop last season.

Brendan Morrison
ASSETS: Is an excellent skater and playmaker. Has racked up points at every level. Is an important player on special teams and a decent face-off man.
FLAWS: Usually avoids heavy traffic areas, since he's smallish in stature and not physical. Lacks the offensive consistency to play a first-line role.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Versatile forward.

Age: 33
2008 stats: 81 16 15 31 3 32
2008 salary: 2.75

Outlook: Morrison spurned the Jackets offer last offseason as he wished to remain on the west coast. However if he wants a job this offseason he'll need to keep his options open. What may interest Howson this time around is even though Morrison's numbers dropped, he is a guy who can play just about anywhere in your lineup. He could look good next to a Filatov on the 3rd line or if there is an injury would certainly not look out of place next to a Rick Nash. If he hangs out there I wouldn't rule him out. A big drawback is he isn't a defensive shutdown guy.

Todd Marchant
ASSETS: Has a strong reputation for his penalty-killing, checking and leadership ability. Is still an above-average skater.
FLAWS: Doesn't have great hands and lacks the confidence to consistently finish off plays. Isn't big and tends to wear down against big centers.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Two-way center.

Age: 35
2008 stats: 72 5 13 18 -2 34
2008 salary: 2.66

Outlook: We've seen this episode before eh Jacket fans? This time around if Marchant is brought on board it won't be billed as a 1st line center savior like a certain other general manager sold it as a few years back. With new management in charge there may be a fit here although I see Marchant pretty far Howson's wish list mostly because he doesn't add much, if any, offense.

Mike Sillinger
ASSETS: Possesses good two-way instincts and playmaking ability. Does anything asked of him. Excels on face-offs and can line up at all three forward positions.
FLAWS: Struggles in the goal-scoring department, and is much more suited to playing on a checking line than as a top-six forward.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Two-way center.

Age: 37
2008 stats: 7 2 0 2 -5 0
2008 salary: 2.30

Outlook: Another former Jackets who has played for just about every NHL team out there -- heck wasn't he a Colorado Rockie at some point? Although extremely experienced Sillinger has suffered some big time injuries over the past year and it does appear father time has caught up to him. I don't see a fit.

P.J. Axelsson
ASSETS: Possesses work ethic that is second to none. Has sound two-way and penalty-killing ability. Can play in any situation.
FLAWS: Will never contend for any scoring records. Is a dedicated checker, but his lack of bulk can be a disadvantage when he's trying to shut down big power forwards.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Two-way winger.

Age: 34
2008 stats: 75 6 24 30 -1 16
2008 salary: 1.85

Outlook: His strengths and salary certainly fall in the ballpark but I believe Axelsson is more of a winger than a center. You certainly know what you'll get with P.J every night. I put him squarely on the "maybe" list if other preferred options fall through and the Jackets brass believe he can play full time at center.

Radek Bonk
ASSETS: Possesses a great package: Size for the center position, hockey sense, excellent defensive skills and sound fundamentals.
FLAWS: Doesn't play a physical game at all, despite his size. Appears to have lost his scoring touch. Lacks grit and passion.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line center.

Age: 33
2008 stats: 66 9 16 25 -12 34
2008 salary: 1.60

Outlook: Personally I'm just not a fan of Bonk. Some of his strengths fit what the Jackets are looking for but his game is too invisible too many nights for my liking. I hope the Jackets pass.

Samuel Pahlsson
ASSETS: Has good instincts and defensive prowess. Is strong on his skates and works hard. Excels in defensive situations.
FLAWS: Needs to produce more points at the NHL level. Doesn't shoot enough when in good scoring position.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line center.

Age: 31
2008 stats: 65 7 11 18 -17
2008 salary: 1.40

Outlook: If the Jackets don't really care about picking up a center who adds some offense then Phalsson may be their man. He's definitely a guy whose proven he can shut down other team's top lines and I can see Hitch absolutely loving this guy. He did have some injury issues last season and his lack of offense is a concern.

Dominic Moore
ASSETS: Has excellent hockey sense and two-way instincts. Always gives maximum effort on the ice. Leads by example with every shift.
FLAWS: Is smallish in stature. Lacks offensive acumen. Will have to battle extra hard just to keep a job at the NHL level.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking center.

Age: 28
2008 stats: 81 13 32 45 -2 92
2008 salary: 900k

Outlook: Moore is a guy I'd love for the Jackets to add to their mix. He had a bit of a breakout year last season notching a career high 45 points so the risk you take in signing him is if he can duplicate that performance. He got plenty of PP time and top 6 minutes in Toronto which he wouldn't get here so that will effect is point production. Like Morrison though by signing a guy like Moore you hedge a bit against injury to Vermette/Brassard which is never a bad thing. Moore will probably be too rich for the Jackets blood however.

Chad LaRose
ASSETS: Displays a ton of energy with every shift, and isn't afraid of mixing it up--despite a lack of size. Possesses decent offensive instincts.
FLAWS: Must prove he can play aggressively at the NHL level over the long haul. Needs to add more upper-body strength. Is not a natural goal-scorer by any means.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line winger.

Age: 27
2008 stats: 81 19 12 31 6 35
2008 salary: 875k

Outlook: Appears to be more effective at wing than at center which is unfortunate for our needs. If Howson and co. believe LaRose can be an effective center he is certainly a guy who would have to interest them. He put some up some decent numbers and plays a strong 2 way game. He really impressed in the playoffs but as forecaster suggest - can he keep up that strong level of play?

Vernon Fiddler
ASSETS: Plays with hockey smarts, displays two-way capability and sound face-off skills. Can play either wing or center.
FLAWS: Lacks offensive upside, isn't big or overly physical. Doesn't display enough offensive consistency to secure more ice time.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Bottom six forward.

Age: 29
2008 stats: 78 11 6 17 -13 24
2008 salary: 900k

Outlook: Fiddler is a guy we Jacket fans are very familiar with. He has a motor that doesn't seem to ever stop (at least against the CBJ). He doesn't put up a whole lot of offense but he just the type of guy you always notice out there on the ice. He still in his prime at 29 and is certainly on Howson's radar. The -13 stands out though.

Blair Betts
ASSETS: Has good size for the pivot position and solid two-way skills. Displays leadership qualities and a sound work ethic.
FLAWS: Has limited scoring and/or playmaking ability. Also doesn't have the greatest skating ability, which limits his effectiveness in the NHL.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Checking line center.

Age: 29
2008 stats: 81 6 4 10 -5 16
2008 salary: 615k

Outlook: Certainly has the size Hitch would love but not a whole lot offensively. If the Jackets were lookin for a 4th line center Betts would look really good there. Maybe a guy the Jackets feel could be coached up a bit. Wouldn't completely rule him out but it would take a lot of strikes before they seriously consider him -- at least for that 3rd line hole.

Tomas Kopecky
ASSETS: Has a very projectable frame, sound two-way instincts and plenty of scoring potential. Is also a versatile forward in the Red Wings mold.
FLAWS: Must add significant bulk in order to make his mark on the NHL. Has a tendency to take games off, which won't cut it in the big league.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Third line winger.

Age: 27
2008 stats: 79 6 13 19 -7 46
2008 salary: 525k

Outlook: Another guy who has played more wing than center. The price could be right here but the Jackets would have to be convinced Kopecky could hold down a center spot. I think they look for more experience playing in that shutdown hole.

I would be fine with Manny coming back for the right terms but if he doesn't here is my personal wishlist:

1. John Madden
2. Dominic Moore
3. Brendan Morrison
4. Samuel Phalsson
5. Chad LaRose (only if the org was confident he could play center)

We'll see how it shakes out over the next couple of days.

-LTL

Cap space.. the new frontier

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:51:00 +0000

A nice quick reference in terms of players signed vs. cap space that I grabbed from the Canadiens web site.

The Jackest have 18 players with over 17 mil left on the cap. We know as a budget team that they won't be spending near it.

Jackets a draft "winner" according to Puck-daddy:

Columbus Blue Jackets: Winners, because they seem to really love the John Moore pick. Big kid, good skater, and dropped more than they thought he would, which required them to trade up after already trading down. There's still no indication whether Moore will go to Colorado College or Kitchener, though. It'd probably be better for his development to get some Major Junior games under his belt though.

-LTL

Qualifications

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:56:00 +0000

Remember today is the final day teams can qualify their restricted free agents.

According to the Dispatch here are the Jackets restricted free agents:

Forwards: Alexandre Picard, Michael Blunden, Petr Pohl and John Vigilante,

Defensemen: Marc Methot, Aaron Rome, Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, Jonathan Sigalet, Jon Landry, Kyle Wharton and Trevor Hendrikx, and goaltender Dan LaCosta.

The ones I bolded are who I expect to be qualified for sure although I think Aaron Rome is actually a UFA and not an RFA.

I'll update this post once we find out what is what.

Update: Puck-rakers reports that Picard, Blunden, Methot, Sigalet and LaCosta were indeed qualified today.

OK Tollefsen's days a Jacket are over which does not come as surprise to me. I loved the way OKT competed and this dude has balls of solid rock. Alas the depth Howson has built up on the blueline, his health and inability to move the puck consistantly out of his own zone are ultimately the main reasons why the Jackets moved in a different direction.

Good luck to OKT and all the players who were not qualified today. I'm sure many will land on their feet in other organizations.

-LTL

Random thougths

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:37:00 +0000

* Development camp starts today. I'd love to get down there today but unfortunately I can't swing 2:45 to 4:15. Wed and Thurs are better bets for me. If anyone makes it down I'd love to hear your reports. You can find the complete roster here.

Here is the full on-ice schedule:

Monday, June 29 - 2:45 to 4:15 p.m.
Tuesday, June 30 - 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Wednesday, July 1 - 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Thursday, July 2 - 10:30 a.m. to Noon

* John Moore became the first American ever drafted by the Jackets in the first round.

* Pretty cool that 5 of the Jackets 6 picks will actually make the development camp this week. Only Swede Anton Blomqvist won't make it.

* I have to admit -- with both Schroeder and Moore still available when the 21st pick rolled around I would have been thrilled with either. While Moore is certainly a steal I think the Canucks had the steal of the draft netting Schroeder at 22. I really think that kid is going to be a Parise type of player.

* What is up with the Flyers paying a king's ranson to land Chris Pronger? I mean Lupul, Sbisa and two first round picks for a guy who only has 1 year left on his deal? Pronger is a beast and typically the team who acquires the best player in a deal eventually wins the trade but wow, that is a lot to give up. Flyers better hope they can get him extended.

* Hard to believe but free agency is only two days away. #1 goal of course is to get Rick Nash extended. As I've stated before, don't expect much if anything out of the Jackets on the first day. In fact the read I'm getting is that Howson is going to be very patient this year and will wait to see how things shake out. That is a pretty good strategy considering our needs and budget. I could see a lot of good players still be available after the initial splash.

* My top 10 Jackets prospects now that the '09 draft has concluded are:

1. Derick Brassard
2. Nikita Filatov
3. John Moore
4. Cody Goloubef
5. Maksim Mayorov
6. Kevin Lynch
7. Kevin Lalande
8. Michael Blunden
9. Grant Clitsome
10. Matt Calvert

HM: Weber, Ruth, Holden, LaCosta, Legein, Picard, Regner

What's really interesting is that once Brass and Filatov graduate this season the Jackets primary strength in the pipeline is going to be defensemen. That was obviously identified as a major weakness when Howson came aboard and he has certainly worked diligently to address it.

* If you're keeping score out there the Ottawa Sens used the Jackets 2nd round pick they acquired in the Leclaire/Vermette deal to land goalie Robin Lehner.

* One can never truly grade a draft class until 4 to 5 years later but without the benefit of hindsight I'm gonna give this draft a B+. Moore is an A+, Lynch a B, Savard an A-, Larkin a B, Blomqvist a B- and Neuber a C.

* I personally give Scott Howson an 'A' for being aggressive and working what the draft gave him.

* It appears Manny won't be signed prior to July 1st. I'm glad Howson is sticking to his guns here because even though we don't know the numbers, I get the sense Manny is over-valuing himself. He'll probably get more than we are offering but there will be other options that I believe will be a bigger bang for the buck.

* Here is a lost of the top 50 free agents set to hit the market come July 1st. The only Jacket on the list is Jason Williams.

* The Jackets have signed a 28 year old Swede by the name of Daniel Steiner to a pro try-out contract. His stats can be found here.

-LTL

Day 2

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 22:13:00 +0000

Good vid here with the Jackets 2nd round pick Kevin Lynch and 4th round pick David Savard (that kid looks like a monster):

Be sure to check out Breakfast with the Blue Jackets on 971thefan.com -- they have new interviews with Scott Howson, Tyler Wright and the Jackets #1 pick John Moore.

Check out these draft stats from THN:

Canada led all countries with 102 players selected at the NHL draft, down from 120 in 2008 but the same number as in 2007.

The United States had 55 players chosen, up 10 from last year, although it had none in the top 15.

Sweden had 24 chosen, up seven from 2008 and there were 10 from Finland, a gain of three. Slovakia had five after not having a player drafted last year.

The thing about the Russians though is that even though they don't have the quantity they certainly produce quality -- which of course is the reason they are alway so damn good at the international tournaments.

That and the lack of a transfer agreement doesn't help.

Good and bad. Good that both Tavares and Hedman went to the East. Bad that we won't get to see them play that often.

THN also picked the Jackets as a draft "winner":

Columbus: Taking a page out of the New York Islanders book, the Jackets stockpiled on second and late-rounders to move down a little in the first round. They could afford to make a move like that because of all the strong prospects they have stepping into the NHL right now: Derrick Brassard, Nikita Filatov, Kris Russell, Jakub Voracek and, of course, Steve Mason to name a few.
Further, their first trade set up a later trade to move up a few spots to take John Moore – ranked 16th by International Scouting Services – 21st overall. Moore, who has a very projectable 6-foot-2, 185-pound frame, skates like the wind and is, or is at least among, the very best skaters in the draft – perfect in the NHL and perfect for a team with such a decrepit power play.

So did USA Today:

Dazzling skater John Moore, a defenseman, was a high value pick at No. 21, and center Kevin Lynch could be a sleeper.

Allen Muir also weighed in on the Moore selection:

(9:56) And that's why the Blue Jackets move up. They get Moore, a great value pick at this point of the night. He's one of the best skaters in the draft and has a real sharp eye with the puck. He'll key their transition game and be an ideal QB for a power play that's held them back as other elements have come together under coach Ken Hitchcock.

(9:53) Anaheim trades pick 21 to Columbus for 26 and 37. Dropping five slots to pick up a second rounder? Nice asset management by Bob Murray. If you're a Ducks fan, you have to love the night your team has had. And that's a steep price for the Jackets. They must have targetted someone to help their blueline. Moore?

As a couple of folks pointed out in the comments of another post - something is going to have to give in Calgary after they acquired the rights to Bouwmeester.

Assuming they get him signed for around 7 mil per year that would make the 4th player on the Flames roster who makes 7 million or more dollars. The best bet here is that Dion Phaneuf has played his last game as a Flame.

He's certainly a guy I'd love to add but I can't see the Jackets adding his salary or giving up the assets it would take to acquire him.

-LTL

More with Moore

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:51:00 +0000

I'm estatic the Jackets were able to land John Moore. Just a great pick and I loved Scott Howson's aggressivenes on the draft floor.

Howson also moved up to the 2nd round today and grabbed a kid by the name of Kevin Lynch out of the USNTP with the 56th overall pick.

Lynch is a 6'1" 190lb center who is ranked #100 on Central Scouting's rankings. He notched 18g, 19a for 37p in 54 games last year. The only downside is he'll be playing for Michigan next season.

That makes two yanks with the Jackets first two picks.

I'll have much more on the draft over the next couple of days.

-LTL

This and that

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:12:00 +0000

November 17, 2005. Remember that date?

Here is a refresher:

Ahh.. the city was buzzing after that one. I remember saying to myself if you would have told me that Jackets would have both Adam Foote and Sergei Fedorov in their lineup the season after the lockout I'd say you were nuts.

Of course it backfired as the problems with this franchise ran much deeper than a couple of over-the-hill "names" could fix. Lookin back though that move could be classified as Doug MacLean's final attempt to save his job in Columbus.

..and who knew Beauchemin would go on to develop into the player he became?

I bring this up because yesterday it became official that Fedorov's hall of fame NHL career basically came to a close as he signed a 2 year deal to play with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL.

Good luck to you Sergei.

So how about the news of the Jackets 2nd round pick from the '07 draft Will Weber getting busted for stealing a purse and underage drinking?

Weber claims it was by accident and that he thought it was his friend's purse.

Haha.. sure Will.

I'm the last guy that will criticize a young kid for going out and having some fun at/around college as certainly I have no room to talk. I'm sure this was just a case of making a bad decision in the moment.

We've all been there right?

The key is to learn from it and not to make the same mistake again. Like it or not athletes are always under the microscope more than the average joes out there and you have to be extra careful as to not draw attention for all the wrong reasons.

Weber will be just fine.

Finally I wanted to pass along an update about our favorite little hockey fan Coryn!

She will be in a production in Dublin titled "Dude! Where's My Hair?". The Dispatch has a fantastic article on the event:

Six Columbus-area children who've lost their hair to chemotherapy will share their stories Sunday of as part of a production to benefit the Hair Theater Wig Fund, which pays for wigs for those who lose their hair during treatment.

Halfway through her yearlong reign as Little Queen of the Jackson County Apple Festival, Coryn Lord learned that she had leukemia.

Her mother, Cathy Lord, had noticed bruises on her daughter's arms and legs and, after talking to a school nurse, took Coryn to see a doctor.

"I had joked that I was being overly cautious," said Mrs. Lord, of Jackson, Ohio. "When the doctor came back, I could tell by the look on her face that something was wrong."

The diagnosis came on Coryn's sixth birthday, in 2005.

What followed was 10 months of treatment, including chemotherapy. Coryn lost her long, wavy, chestnut-colored hair and had to use a skin adhesive to keep her Little Queen crown on her head during festival visits.

"I love my hair, so it was kind of rough for me," said Coryn, now 10. "It was scary."

Coryn's story -- from cancer and chemo to hair loss and recovery -- is among six to be told Sunday as part of a fundraising production at the Abbey Theater in Dublin.

The children themselves -- three girls and three boys ages 6 to 20 -- will take center stage in Dude! Where's My Hair?, a series of monologues with theatrical additions such as a guitar solo, a running skit about a lost wig and the Mexican Hat Dance.

You can read more from the Dispatch here.

I am told by Coryn's mom Kathy that "this show will be performed again in the fall and will have the support and backing of the CBJ Foundation as well as some player participation at that time."

As she keeps me updated I will certainly pass them along to all of you.

If you would like to learn more about Coryn and her family I had a post them a few months back. You can check that one out here.

...and not to worry Jared Boll -- I am also told by her mom that even though their summer is "busy, busy, busy"....they are "finding time to head to the draft party tonight to see the "son-in-law"".

Love it!

-LTL

With the 16th pick the Columbus Blue Jackets select...

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 10:00:00 +0000

.....one of the following 5 players:

JOHN MOORE
NHL Central Scouting’s Jack Barzee
“I watched John Moore as an underage player and I knew he was a must see player for this year; he hasn’t disappointed me one bit. His first two strides are like Paul Coffey and he has been labeled as a world-class skater. He is poised with the puck, he gets his shots through to the net and he has gotten a lot stronger this season. He resembles (Calgary Flames) defenseman Jordan Leopold and similar to Leopold at the same age he needs to get a little bit better at playing more aggressive and more physical, but John is going to be a one-two defenseman in the NHL.”

ZACK KASSIAN
NHL Central Scouting’s Chris Edwards
"Kassian is one of the toughest guys in the OHL and probably the entire draft. Last season as an under-ager there were overage guys in the league who would not take him on. He has not fought much this season (because) he has not had to. He is at his best when he is playing physical and tough along the boards. He protects the puck very well and fights through checks. He has very good play-making and puck-handling abilities."

RYAN ELLIS
NHL Central Scouting’s Chris Edwards
“He's a really smart, heady defenseman. His puck movement is excellent and the way he moves the puck around the zone is excellent. He's a real high-end offensive guy. He's got a great shot and he gets it through to the net. A lot of guys have their shots blocked, but he's got a real knack for getting it through, and that leads to a lot of tip-in and rebound goals. He's a smaller guy, but he's not afraid of taking the body. He shows no fear of getting involved in scrums, he's not intimidated.”

OLIVER EKMAN LARSSON
NHL European Scouting Service
“Oliver likes to play offensively, often carrying the puck into the neutral zone. He has the frame, speed and skill to dominate. He is a smooth skater and can handle the puck at top speed, but needs to use his size to his advantage more. He often quarterbacks the power-play and has a hard shot from the blue line.”

DAVID RUNBLAND
Director of European Scouting Goran Stubb
“He has a very good shot. He is a right-handed shot and he is used on the power play, even in the (Elite) League despite being a young player. He is a very smart player. He could be a little more physical in his game, but that is something that he is learning.”

Also some trade nuggets from Puck-rakers:

The Blue Jackets have had trade talks with at least four clubs, but they've all been draft pick trades.

GM Scott Howson wants to be prepared to move up in the order if the four or five players they've targeted start disappearing from the board. He also wants to have deals in place to move back a couple/few spots if a few of those player remain on the board at No. 16.

So far, Howson said, he's had no discussions regarding players currently on the Blue Jackets' roster.

Whelp you see the five players I'm speculating them to be interested in. Note - I have absolutely no inside information -- just my own personal dot connecting.

1st LTL draft @ 1:00 P.M. EST.

1st NHL draft pick @ 7:00 EST.

See you all at the draft parties!

GO DRAFT(s)!

-LTL

How can this be?

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 02:15:00 +0000

Check out the following:

ESPN's John Buccigross told Pratt and Taylor Thursday that Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo has agreed to terms on a long-term extension that will officially be announced July 1st.

That's great and all if you're a Canuck fan but what happened to not being able to negotiate an extension for a signed player entering the final year of his contract until after July 1st?

If this is the case then I certainly hope Scott Howson has gotten the wheels in motion behind the scenes with Nasher. The best news any Jacket fan could hope for come July 1st would be the announcement that Rick Nash has been signed to a long term extension.

Now that I think about it I believe the San Jose Sharks announced an extensino for Joe Thornton on July 1st a couple of years back as well.

Get on it Scott.

Update: Luongo's agent denies report that the goalie has an extension, says it will take some time

-LTL

LTL Mock Draft

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000

I'm usually pretty craptastic at these but what the hell, let's give it a whirl:

1.NY Islanders: John Tavares C 6-0/195 L (London, OHL)

2.Tampa Bay Lightning: Victor Hedman D 6-6/220 L (MODO, Swe)

3.Colorado Avalanche: Matt Duchene C 5-11/200 L (Brampton, OHL)

4.Atlanta Thrashers: Brayden Schenn C 6-0/198 L (Brandon, WHL)

5.Los Angeles Kings: Evander Kane C 6-1/176 L (Vancouver, WHL)

6.Phoenix Coyotes: Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson LW 6-1/201 L (Timra, Swe)

7.Toronto Maple Leafs: Jared Cowen D 6-5/220 L (Spokane, WHL)

8.Dallas Stars: Jordan Schroeder C 5-8/175 R (Minnesota, WCHA)

9.Ottawa Senators: Dmitry Kulikov D 6-0/183 L (Drummondville, QMJHL)

10.Edmonton Oilers: Ryan Ellis D 5-9/173 R (Windsor, OHL)

11.Nashville Predators: Nazem Kadri C 5-11/167 L (London, OHL)

12.Minnesota Wild: John Moore D 6-2/189 L (Chicago, USHL)

13.Buffalo Sabres: Zack Kassian RW 6-3/210 R (Peterborough, OHL)

14.Florida Panthers: David Rundblad D 6-2/189 R (Skelleftea, Swe)

15.Anaheim Ducks: Scott Glennie RW 6-1/177 R (Brandon, WHL)

16.Columbus Blue Jackets: Oliver Ekman-Larsson D 6-2/176 L (Leksand, Swe)

I just feel like somebody is gonna fall and OEL seems to be falling like a rock on many of the mocks out there. These never go as planned so I'm guessing OEL falls right into the Jackets lap.

Other possibilites:
Carter Ashton RW 6-2/205 L (Lethbridge, WHL)
Jacob Josefson C 6-0/187 L (Djurgarden, Swe)

Sleeper pick:
Chris Kreider C 6-2/201 L (Andover, HIGH-MA)

If I were a betting man I'd say we end up with one of the following 5 players:

Ryan Ellis
Zach Kassian
John Moore
Oliver Ekman-Larsson
David Rundblad

Fire away - any player in particular that you have your eye on?

-LTL

Congrats Hitch!

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:03:00 +0000

As you've probably heard by now Hitch has been named as an assistant coach to the 2010 Team Canada Olympic team.

That is one helluva an honor and just goes to show we have one of the best coaching right here in Columbus.

Now maybe he can steal some PP strategies from Babcock.... that or sneak a Lidstrom back in his duffle bag.

-LTL

Quote of the day and more draft!!

noreply@blogger.com (LTL) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:06:00 +0000

I thought this quote was a classic line from the Leafs' Brian Burke:

"I don't give a rat's ass what they do in Pittsburgh or Detroit," said Burke. "There's been four different Cup winners the last four years, and I got one of them (Anaheim) and it was a fighting team. We're playing it that way regardless."

I'm glad he's not the Jackets GM as I'm just fine with the low key Howson but he is an entertaining quote.

Also if you're interseted in Kubina or Kaberle make note of this from the same article:

But Friday is important on another matter. The no-trade clauses for both defencemen Tomas Kaberle and Pavel Kubina temporarily expire. From draft day until mid-August, either can be traded. Burke said he's had nibbles for both, but said it was "too early to say" whether one, or both, would be moved.

Kubina earns $5 million (all figures U.S.) a year, Kaberle $4.25 million. Both have offensive ability, Kubina has a bit more grit.

I like both guys and think both could help our d corps tremendously.

With only 1 year left on Kubina's deal there is only so much I'd be willing to give up (i.e. not the first rounder or top prospect) to swing that deal. Kaberle would be a different situation as he's younger and has two years left on his contract but my guess is Howson would not give up any of his young studs it would take to obtain him. I'm okay with that as well as I firmly believe cup contenders are built through the draft.

I wouldn't completely rule out a trade with Toronto but I also wouldn't wait by your keyboards hitting the refresh button either.

THN comments on last year's draft day trades:

Columbus gets: R.J. Umberger, C
Philadelphia gets: Luca Sbisa, D
Looking back: You can imagine how much worse Philly’s cap trouble would have been this year if they didn’t move out Umberger, who now has a hit close to $4 million.

Columbus got exactly the type of physical, productive forward they needed to help fill out a weak group and they didn’t even need to give out their own first-rounder, instead handing the Flyers a pick they got months earlier from Colorado for a dastardly Adam Foote.

In Sbisa, the Flyers added a youngster they could immediately insert into the lineup, even though that’s not what they anticipated when they picked him. This was a fine deal for both teams.

It was a good deal for both squads. It's really hard to imagine where Columbus would have been without RJ's 26 goals last season. He also proved that his playoff performance the year before was no fluke as he notched 3 goals in the Jackets 4 playoff games.

Here are a couple of more mocks from TSN:

16. Blue Jackets

McGuire: Dmitry Kulikov
McGuire: "They need some offence from the back end in Columbus."

Button: John Moore
Button: "He's a quick skater that loves to get into the attack."

Hey wudya know.. two more d-men! In all honestly I'd be thrilled to land either of these guys.

CNNSI's Muir has his mock posted:

16. Columbus Blue Jackets: David Rundblad, D, Skelleftea (SEL)

The Jackets may not have the league's worst power play by the time Rundblad shows up in Columbus, but he has the tools to ensure they become a more formidable opponent with the extra man long-term Rundblad worked the PP in the SEL as an underager, thanks to his slick playmaking, cannon shot and strong reads. And he's a right-handed shooter, a quality almost every team covets. Add in the fact that he should play at about 6-2, 210 and has more than a passing familiarity with his own zone, and he should become a bulwark of the Jackets' back end.

A little trade rumor news from Portzline's chat from the Dispatch this afternoon:

[Kev22] Porty are you hearing any rumors at the draft involving the Jackets yet?

[Portzline] Yes. I hear they've talked to Buffalo about moving up to the No. 13 spot. I get to Montreal on Thursday. Lots of hotel lobby time should generate some gossip, rumors, innuendo and half-truths. Look for those in your Friday edition of Ohio's Greatest Home Newspaper.

Portzline metions that the Jackets would like to grab one of the 7-pack of d-men in Hedmen, Kulikov, Cowen, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Moore, Runbland or Ellis. Hedman, Cowen and Kulikov are all likely to be off the board early but one of Moore, Runbland, Ellis or possibly Larsson could still be there at 16 -- if he doesn't think so then perhaps he deals with Buffalo to snag one.

I personally don't think he is limiting himself to just d-men though. If a guy like Glennie, Kassian or a Schroeder are there you have to pull the trigger. Kassian is a guy that I like more and more. That's not to say I still don't like "Moore".. as in John.

If you subscribe to the NHL Network you HAVE to tune in and watch the 2002 All Access draft special. Tons of video of a young Rick Nash. It's great TV for CBJ fans.

I believe it's on a couple of more times before the 09 draft takes off on Friday evening.

-LTL