![]() |
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NHLPLF.ros ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]()
Farm Stats Leaders Farm Category Leaders Farm Team Scoring
NHL.ros NHL.lge NHL.tms
|
Saturday, February 20, 2010
ECHL6 Trade Deadline Passes with Big Names Changing Teams
The trade deadline in the ECHL6 season has come and gone, and it turned out to be one of the most active deadlines in recent memory. Over 17 players switched teams this time around, and it was the Dallas Stars, Atlanta Thrashers, and Minnesota Wild who made the most changes. Gone are Patrik Elias, Antti Miettinen, Alex Bourret, and Adrian Aucoin from the Dallas lineup. In their place are the likes of Drew Stafford, Dan Hamhuis, Jason Allison, and Nikolai Zherdev. It was a shake-up designed to propel the Stars into the post season. The Stars sit five points out of a playoff berth in the Western Conference.
“We know what our roles are,” veteran center Jason Allison said at the post-deadline press conference. “Jordan brought us in to do a job, and we intend to do it. He gave up a lot to get the lineup he has now. I’m excited to be a part of it.” “We have some teams to catch,” added winger Drew Stafford, who came over from the Atlanta Thrashers. “We have the Oilers in our sights.” Also adding some intrigue to the West were the moves made by Bill Read, the general manager of the Minnesota Wild. Following an 18 game unbeaten streak that propelled the Wild to first in the West with two losses, Read elected to blow up his roster. New to the Minnesota area are centers Jason Spezza and Tomas Plekanec, winger Patrik Elias, and defenseman Keith Yandle. Finding new teams were centers Daymond Langkow (Columbus), Jason Allison (Dallas) and prospects Peter Holland (Columbus), Vaclav Nedorost (Columbus), and Eric Tangradi (Dallas).
“It was a lot to give up, but it’s time to win now,” Read remarked, when asked about his transactions. “The West is up for grabs, and I believe that today’s moves have made me the favorite.” However, his sentiments were not shared by Daymond Langkow, who had some choice words for the Minnesota organization. “It’s amazing, isn’t it?” he commented. “We help the team to an 18 game undefeated streak, and we lose two games, and we’re packaged off. I know its business, but that is classless.”
In the East, the major player was the Atlanta Thrashers. In perhaps the most shocking move of the deadline, Atlanta GM Justin Halbersma brought in two-time Vezina Trophy winner Dan Cloutier from Vancouver. It was a trade that few, if any, saw coming. “It was apparent that Lalime, for all his talent, wasn’t comfortable here in Atlanta,” Halbersma commented. “In ten games, he had only won three games. Patrick is returning to the West, where he seems to be the most comfortable. We wish him well.
“Dan gives us a goaltender that has won two Vezinas, and has reached the Finals. He should be the cornerstone of our goaltending for seasons to come.” In addition to Lalime, Halbersma sent wingers Vaclav Prospel, Martin Havlat, and Drew Stafford packing. In return, Atlanta picked up forwards Peter Forsberg, Anthony Stewart, Antti Miettinen, and defenseman Scott Hannan. In other moves, Calgary sent Carolina’s 1st round draft pick and defenseman Karl Alzner to Dallas for Adrian Aucoin. Vancouver continued their movement, sending defenseman Dan Hamhuis to Dallas for goaltender Hannu Toivonen, Florida sent winger Angelo Esposito to Los Angeles for defenseman Kyle Klubertanz, Nashville sent forward Joe Pavalski to Calgary for winger Joffrey Lupul, Dallas, Columbus, and Nashville combined for a three-way trade that saw Chris Summers end up in Nashville, Nick Boynton in Dallas, and Daniel Carcillo and Leland Irving in Columbus. In addition to Lalime, Atlanta sent wingers Martin Havlat and Ramzi Abid to Vancouver for wingers Anthony Stewart and Valtteri Filppula. The Thrashers then flipped winger Alex Bourret to the Flames for defenseman Scott Hannan.
Perhaps noticeable for their inactivity, it remains to be seen if the best moves were made by the Boston Bruins, Tampa Bay Lightning, and St. Louis Blues. All three of these teams elected not to make any trades, choosing instead to ride the success their current rosters have earned their franchises. Time will tell who the winners of the ECHL6 trade deadline sweepstakes will be.
Saturday, September 26, 2009 ECHL6 Entry and Dispersal Draft Results The final results of the ECHL6 Entry Draft are as follows: Round One
01 Round Two
31 Round Three
61 The final results of the ECHL6 Dispersal Draft is as follows: Round One
01
--> Saturday, September 26, 2009 ECHL Returns with ECHL6 ECHL6 has returned - join us today in IRC, EFnet, in the #echl6 channel to participate in the live draft @ 12:00pm ET.
Sunday, August 9, 2009 ECHL Scout Picks the Playoffs
Tampa Bay may have the experience but they also have the pressure. Mark Marazan had success early in his career, and Tampa did win the Stanley Cup in past years, but has a different looking roster. Montreal will have their work cut out for them... which lead Tampa in six games.
Boston in 7. Their gap statistically is nothing compared to their gap in play down the stretch, and while I am not confident that Marc Denis can get it done in the playoffs, I am no more confident in Marty Turco. The series could go either way, but I can see Boston winning in the end.
Rangers in five. The numbers say this will be a much closer series with both teams numbers being hurt by early season struggles. Pittsburgh is a hard-working team that has been at least as hot as San Jose, but they have fewer players who have had first round success than their foes, are not as strong in net, do not have home ice, and are not desperate like the Rangers, especially Mats Sundin.
Florida in seven. These two teams are dead even in numbers, even finishing close to the same number of points. However, Florida has been one of the hottest teams in the league since hiring Yanni to take over the team and since the return of Derek Morris, while NY Islanders has floundered a bit of late. The Panthers are more disciplined and experienced, they have home ice... the only reason it goes seven.
I am very pissed off that the Anaheim Mighty Ducks took the St.Louis Blue spot in the last few games of the season. St.Louis had to play their last 10 games against strong teams which is without a doubt the hardest in the ECHL whereas the Ducks played their last stretch of games against New Jersey, Carolina, and Ottawa. REALLY UNFAIR!!!!!!!!!! Calgary is much better and will win in 4.
The Preds have largely dominated the series winning more than 75% of them. More again, the Preds have won 23 of the 30 last meetings against the Blue Jackets. Of course, there is 10 players who play for Nashville that never played a single game in the playoffs, but there is absolutely no way the Blue Jackets can compete against Nashville. Roberto Luongo will be a key in these series and I just can’t detect any mental weaknesses in the goaltender so I believe he will do just fine. Sure the Blue Jackets will be motivated by their aces Marian Hossa and Jason Spezza so I will say Preds in 5.
The Phoenix Coyotes are without a doubt the hottest team in the ECHL. I just can’t see how the Canucks could overplay the Coyotes. If the Canucks want to win, Cloutier will need to be at his best and Marleau, Arnott, Stuart will have to dominate the game. The Coyotes have a strong offensive core, they currently hold two 100 point scorers in the League. I believe the Coyotes have had their lessons in the past and will eliminate the Canucks in 6.
The San Jose are one of the hottest if not the hottest team in the West. They both have a good momentum which should give us one of the best series in the West but I believe the absence of vets who are the undisputed leaders of that team will play a huge factor in the Red Wings win. Detroit in 6.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Monday, June 29, 2009 Lecavalier comes through in OT; East beats West Mere moments after hearing he had been traded during the All-Star/trade deadline festivities Vincent Lecavalier sent a message to his former club, firing a crisp pass from Todd Bertuzzi past the sprawling pads of Dan Cloutier. The new Bolt was mobbed on the ice by his Eastern teammates after the come-from-behind 9-8 victory sealed yet another victory for the dominant East, the latest in a string of All-Star and Stanley Cup victories by the conference. Check the final boxscore here.
Saturday, June 27, 2009 Western Youth dominate in ECHL5 Young Stars Game The ECHL are proud to post the results of the ECHL5 Young Stars Game here. Taking a page from the legendary "empty arena match" between The Rock and Mankind the ECHL5 ran an empty arena Young Stars Game, forgoing millions of dollars to bask in the adulation and attention of the mass media. The kids of the Western Conference took control of the environment - seemingly used to playing in front of silent and unentertained fans - to almost double up the Eastern children by a final score of 8-5. For more information check out the boxscore.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Reporting from the Annual General Managers meetings in Bolton, Ontario, I’m James Duthie of TSN.
Duthie: Alright, let’s get this interview started. How long have you been a league GM?
Duthie: How do you think your team will do this year?
Duthie: Can we expect to see any big moves from your club this season? Are you looking for draft picks, prospects or players for your roster?
Duthie: Who do you believe is or will be your franchise player?
Duthie: Which club(s) is or are your biggest rival(s)?
Duthie: Which clubs do you expect to be cup contenders this season?
Duthie: Which team(s) do you think are the most under-rated & most over-rated?
Duthie: If you could trade for one ECHL player not currently on your team, who would it be?
Duthie: Who is your favourite NHL team? Who are your favourite NHL players?
Duthie: What are some of your hobbies outside of the ECHL? Duthie: Thanks for your time and good luck the rest of this season.
Monday, June 1, 2009 All-Star Starting Lineups Announced The results of ECHL5 All-Star voting have been announced, and while every team will be represented in the big game, the starting lineups for the East and West are now available for viewing, discussion, and derision by clicking here. See you live from Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009 All-Star Voting Underway ECHL5 All-Star Voting is now underway. All GMs are encouraged to click here to place their votes on who will represent each ECHL team in this year's All-Star game, coming live from Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York!
Thursday, March 19, 2009 ECHL5 is Underway! Opening night of the ECHL5 season opened with a busy schedule, with twenty-eight teams of thirty in action. After a long delay, the opening faceoffs brought about excitement and some surprises. Some of the highlights of opening night were a thrilling 8-7 overtime victory for the New York Islanders over their fellow NY rivals, the Rangers and the defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning being drubbed 6-1 by the Washington Capitals.. ECHL’s first female GM, Emily Kiezebrink, notched her first victory, guiding the St. Louis Blues to a 7-4 win over the Detroit Red Wings. Opening night was also punctuated with a blockbuster three-team trade. Going to Tampa Bay were Michael Nylander and Dan Blackburn from the Bruins. Going to Boston were Al Montoya and prospect Kyle Beach and a 1st round draft pick. Blackburn was then flipped to the Atlanta Thrashers, along with Karel Rachunek, Janne Niinimaa, and Nathan Horton for Alexei Kovalev, Brent Seabrook, Jhonas Enroth, Barret Jackman, and a 1st round draft pick. All three teams suffered a tie or a loss on opening night, and these three teams wasted no time in making changes to their roster. The puck has dropped on the new season and there promises to be plenty of action in the weeks to come. Get ready for some exciting fantasy action as the march to the Cup begins now.
Sunday, January 18, 2009 ECHL5 Entry and Dispersal Draft Results January 18th brought about the first ECHL Dispersal Draft and the 3rd live Entry Draft with surprises abounding throughout. The talk of the draft floor was a blockbuster deal that saw two top ECHL goaltenders trade teams; Martin Brodeur's rights heading to Toronto and the rights to two-time Vezina winner Dwayne Rolson heading back to Phoenix in a six-player and three draft pick deal. It was one of three draft day deals that would see picks moving rapidly and teams sliding up and down the board. The entry draft itself saw GMs head "off the board" unlike ever before with the 2nd overall pick by Tampa Bay becoming the 26th ranked Drew Doughty and 18th ranked Jimmy Howard available all the way until the New York Rangers made him the 42nd overall selection. It seemed those GMs in attendance placed a premium on youth with average skilled 18-year-olds flying off the boards early on. Players not selected in the Dispersal Draft were immediately granted Unrestricted Free Agency status and will be added to the pool with no teams owning matching rights. Players not selected in the ECHL5 Entry Draft were, however, notified they would be ineligible for ECHL5 play and will be available in the ECHL6 Entry Draft prior to next season. The final results of the ECHL5 Entry Draft is as follows: Round One
01 Round Two
31 Round Three
61 The final results of the ECHL5 Dispersal Draft is as follows: Round One
01
Tuesday, January 13, 2009 Kovalev Lashes Out at Nashville ATLANTA GA--It seems as though Alexei Kovalev will be marking the games against his former team, the Nashville Predators, on the calender. "I was relegated to the third line with promises of a Cup ring," he said tersely after training camp was over for the day. "I couldn't get used to the revolving door. I know the Nashville trades have settled down. What I'm upset about is the trade to Atlanta. I have a no trade claus that kicks in in two weeks. I was looking forward to settling in one place after Columbus dealt me. Then I get traded again. What a gong-show!" The veteran right winger wiped the sweat off his face before continuing. "Why offer me a no trade claus when my name was being offered in trades? It's not making any sense. So yeah, I'll be looking forward to the games against Nashville." Despite the verbal assault on Nashville, most of which could not be published due to language reasons, Kovalev made it very clear he does not have any regrets about being in Atlanta. "This management seems dedicated to winning," he said. "I spoke with both Justin and Trevor at great length about my role here, why I was brought here. They both promised me lots of ice time. I have a lot to give, I think. Bringing in young players like O'Marra and Seabrook shows they want to win and prepare for the future. Guerin is a competitor and I know all about Jackman. I'm expected to be a leader. I may not have a letter yet... the captains haven't been voted on yet... but they made it very clear...I'm here to help lead the way. "One thing I appreciate... they both never promised a Cup yet. They told me this year could have some growing pains yet. I appreciate the honesty...but I think we'll be tougher than people think. Justin wouldn't say anything, but I think there could be some more promising changes coming. This is really exciting for the Atlanta franchise." Kovalev had one more arrow to shoot at the Nashville franchise. "As long as I'm a Thrasher, may the Predators never drink from the Cup," he said before disappearing into the Atlanta locker room.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Atlanta Hot on the Trigger for ECHL5 ATLANTA GA--The Atlanta Thrashers served notice to the rest of the league this past week. They are not content with the status quo.
The Atlanta Thrashers have been busy in the trade market so far this offseason. Their first move was to send long serving right winger and captain Scott Walker to Minnesota for right wing Bill Guerin and a draft pick. Their second was to send three draft picks to Nashville for right wing Alexei Kovalev, defenseman Barret Jackman, and defensive bluechip prospect Nick Ross. Neither GM would comment on further transactions.
"Guerin and Kovalev both give us punch from the right side. Scott will be missed, but if there's any consolation, it's that we got two quality players to fill in his absence. We also solidified our defense. Jackman will be a huge boost to us right away. Nick will have his nine game tryout with the big club but he may end up in the minors after that nine games... the spot is his to lose.
Both Alexei Kovalev and Bill Guerin were at the press conference, wearing their familiar numbers on Thrasher jerseys. Both seemed excited at the idea of joining a rebuilding club. "Atlanta presents a challenge," Guerin said. "All through my career, I have embraced a challenge. This is a young team that missed the postseason. Both Alex and I were brought in to right the ship. It's exciting times for Atlanta fans." "It's going to be different," Kovalev commented. "I'm looking forward to all the playing time I can handle. Mike (coach Mike Landry) met with me and said I'm going to expect all the minutes I can handle. Far cry from being a third liner in Nashville. With that comes expectation. I have to produce."
"Fisher wears 13 and I haven't had a chance to talk with him," he commented. "If I have to switch numbers, I will. I'm hoping I can keep my number, but if not, that's life. Mike and I are friends. There will not be a problem. Ross will have the same situation with Prusek...both wear 80. We'll see...you grow attached to numbers." Coach Mike Landry smiled when he was asked about the numbers. "Hockey players are superstitious," he said with a grin. "Everything will be done to accomodate everyone." There is a huge expectation this season to beat last year's woeful performance. There are a few holes, but it seems as though fans in Atlanta are beginning to get excited. Season ticket sales have steadily increased after the announcements of the trades. Time will show the fruit of the Thrashers' labours.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009 Changes Promised in Thrasher-Land ATLANTA GA--Atlanta Thrashers general manager Justin Halbersma looked up from the mass of papers littering his desk in Philips Arena and turned to look out over the skyline of downtown Atlanta. “This new season promises changes,” he said. “New assistants, new coaching staff, and I’m hoping the players bring a whole new attitude this year.” It was a nightmare season for the Thrashers in ECHL4, a season that saw them plummet to 14th in the 15-team Eastern Conference. Rather than muddle through the existing troubles, Halbersma elected instead to blow up the roster, shedding salary and bringing in some much needed draft picks. “As I said last season, we were flush against the cap, we were losing, we were aging, and we had no help on the horizon,” he said, leaning back in his chair. “This off-season gave me plenty of time to reflect on what went wrong last year. This rebuilding won’t be a one-season process. We may not make the playoffs next year, either. My hope is that we will be better and competitive. We may not be the most skilled team, but we don’t want to give away two points to every other team, either.” The off-season saw Halbersma go on a rampage in the front office. Assistant general manager Sarah Buckley was appointed to assistant coach to Laura Albrecht in their farm system. In her place comes newly appointed assistant Trevor Samson, who will assist Halbersma in the GM duties. Rather than speak on the new additions, Halbersma provided the Associated Press with the new front office and coaching structure of the Atlanta Thrashers:
President/General Manager: Justin Halbersma A media blackout was imposed on the new staff until further notice. “We have lots of work to do,” Halbersma said, the excitement in his voice very apparent. “We have RFAs to sign and UFAs to pursue. We have an entry draft to prepare for and a dispersal draft to look over. The players under contract will be arriving at camp any day now. Again I ask the loyal fans…be patient. We will be a contender soon.”
Saturday, January 3, 2009 ECHL Returns with ECHL5
The final draft order for the ECHL5 Entry Draft is as follows: Round One
01 Round Two
31 Round Three
61
Thursday, January 1, 2009 ECHL Returns with ECHL5 An uncharacteristically short ECHL off-season didn't stop the GMs from pleading for its return, and return it will as the ECHL Commissioners Office announced the pre-season would officially begin immediately. The following timeline leads towards a January 25th launch of games:
January 1: League files launched, RFA contract bids provided to GMs, trading opens January 11th will not only be the ECHL's third live draft, but we're adding in something new this year. Many of you have alerted us to players that have made it relatively big in the NHL but were never in the top 90 draft picks for ECHL drafts. Rather than add them to the UFA list as we did last year we will be offering a special dispersal draft for non-playoff teams from ECHL4. This is in an effort to introduce a bit more parity as the league has begun to split down the middle, leaving some teams (I'm looking at you, Western Conference) with literally no chance to compete. You'll each receive at least one reasonable player to assist your efforts. Monday, October 20, 2008 LIGHTNING STRIKES TWICE! Tampa Bay Takes Series in Four.
The defense wasn't only stopping goals, they were scoring them as well. Robin Regehr was the hero of the day with two goals on four shots, including the game winner, and the first star for the Cup winning game. But veteran forward Steve Sullivan, with two assists on the game, would take home the Conn Smythe after potting 14 goals and 13 assists for a playoff leading 27 points and stunning +21 throughout the ECHL4 playoff run. Forgoing the regular champagne, GM Mark Maranzan was doused in Dogfish Head 90-Minute IPA when our reporter caught him celebrating. "This season truly was unbelievable. After a disappointing loss in last season's playoffs it was hard to say if our guys would rebound. I can't say enough about the work ethic of our veterans," Maranzan remarked. "They really took control and ran with it this season. Sullivan continued to be not only a constant rock, but a true leader with our youth and Robbie (Regehr) is a just a rock on our blueline." The Tampa Bay story was a stunning one, and after a record-setting 132-point season, it only seemed right that Maranzan's marauders would take home the hardware to cap it off. But what exactly were the secrets to his success in a season he dominated from the opening faceoff? "My key to success?", Maranzan pondered. "Well, hard work, dedication, strong leadership, and plenty of planning." Maranzan took another sip from the Cup before remembering perhaps the biggest success secret: "... and of course I have my secret weapon, I like to make sure I spend at least an hour a day in my thinkin' chair." As the Lightning prepared to make haste to the team jet for a confidently pre-scheduled dinner at the famous Bern's Steakhouse in downtown Tampa Bay Maranzan was asked what the future held, and if the Lightning could become the first repeat Champions in ECHL history? "As far as the future for our team? Well, we will certainly have some questions that will have to be answered this off season, most notably a new contract for Glen (Murray) and Nikolai (Khabibulin), but those are questions that we will look at this off season. For now we want to focus on giving all the guys they credit they deserve. This win belongs to them." With that Maranzan found himself on the receiving end of a Murray-delivered IPA bath, marking the perfect end to a near perfect season.
Friday, October 3, 2008 "The Boston Bruins are dead," snickered Colorado Avalanche GM KP Wee as soon as he stepped into the TD Banknorth Garden for the defending ECHL champions' morning skate as the B's prepared for Game Three of their series with the NY Islanders. "The Bruins outshot and outplayed New York in the first two games. But the Isles won where it mattered--on the scoreboard. And the Isles owned the third periods. It's like Ryan McCullough and his boys are just toying with the B's." What has been alarming is the fact Boston, now in a deep 0-2 hole, scored first in both games--and lost both. The Bruins led 3-2 in both, and choked in both. "There was some discussion about Marc Denis before. Guess (Evan) Carter was right; Denis sucks. I think the Islanders had what, 8 shots in the third period, and he let in 2? And in the opener he gave up three goals in the last 5 minutes, like 4 goals on 8 shots..." "I seriously think Denis and the rest of the team are like their GM Rick Jessup. Too old, not well rested. Some of them probably need a rocking chair or wheelchair in their dressing room, for crying out loud!" When asked about the Isles' tandem in goal, Tuukka Rask and Justin Pogge, who have both outplayed Denis in the series, Wee commented: "Brilliant idea by McCullough, rotating his goalies. Keeps them fresh. Unlike Denis. And the results are clear, especially in the last 20 minutes in both games." And the controversey between Denis and Jessup? "Denis clearly hates his GM, the way all of Carter's boys hate him down in Nashville. When a Stanley Cup-winning goalie (Denis) gets pulled like that, with no time left (in Game One) in favor of the backup, what does that say? Denis probably feels humiliated and has given up on the season."
Friday, September 26, 2008 This was submitted this past Saturday, prior to the playoffs starting. Somehow we missed it, and run it now two games late. Colorado GM KP Wee's season might be over, but he's keenly interested in what the ECHL4 playoffs might bring. Asked to comment on each of the first round series in the West, Wee instead chose to talk about a matchup in the East between two of the oldest franchises in hockey history. "Intriguing matchup between the Bruins and Rangers," Wee said as the reporters gathered in his office for the final time this year. "Boston New York. Wow. It doesn't get any better than that." "I remember their backup, Raycroft, stoned us when we went into MSG one night and we had chances after chances but we were totally robbed of a point there," Wee said about the Avalanche's 1-1 tie in New York during ECHL4. Does Wee actually think the Rangers have a shot against the defending champs from Boston? "The Rangers are a fine young hockey club. Roman Cechmanek is one of the best goalies in the league and Andrew Raycroft is an awesome backup. Didn't Roman win something like 35 games? Incredible. Goaltending is going to be huge in this series, and I'm sure Cech's gonna stone the Bruins at least four times." "And when you have guys up front like (Mats) Sundin or (Brian) Rolston and a (Jason) Blake, and the kid (Michel) Ouellet, these guys getting close to 30 goals, that's great production. How on earth is Boston going to stop them?" When informed about the 13-point gap between the No. 3 seed B's and No. 6 Rangers, Wee only snickered. "The Rangers' defense is vastly underrated, but I tell ya, John-Michael Liles and Dave Tanabe are great. And you've got Jiri Fischer anchoring the blueline with his size, Boston's in big big trouble." But what about the fact the Rangers almost missed the playoffs, and only clinched a berth in the final few games? "New York's a great second-half team. They came into our barn in the second half and took it to us. Alex Edler and Mike Danton and Mike Grier, they all played real well. We couldn't stop these blueshirts. Even (Colorado goalie Garth) Snowy was amazed that night by their team speed and tremendous passing abilities. And don't forget, the lower seeds have always had tremendous success in this league. Just as Boston last year, when they almost missed the postseason themselves." But aren't the Bruins the defending champs, after all? "Boston's in big trouble. They don't have anyone scoring more than a point per game, and even Joe Thornton had a mediocre season, by his own standards. I'm hearing Miro Satain and Michael Ryder are kind of banged up too." What about the fact Bruins GM Rick Jessup has actually built a championship team before? "I tell you guys. Jessup's a fluke. He got lucky. But you look at the Rangers. Mr. John House is probably one of the best GMs since Sam Pollock. That deal he made with Pittsburgh to get Cechmanek and hot sauce was classic. And Mr. House doesn't make trades just for the sake of it; he just gets guys he knows will help out his hockey club. "Take that Cechmanek. He stoned the Bruins in Boston one night and was like, first star of the game. That was one of the most outstanding netminding performances in the entire season this year. They can't possibly lose with goaltending like that." The final word? "Rangers in six."
Wednesday, September 24, 2008 ECHL Scout Picks the Playoffs
This series will almost certainly be dominated by Tampa Bay. Playoffs are always a different story, but Tampa Bay is only one year removed from their last Cup and they’ve improved on their regular season record considerably since then. Pittsburgh netminder Jose Theodore is going to have to play like an old Belfour if he’s going to carry his team past Tampa. Nikolai Khabibulin put up some of the best numbers of his career and he’s already been well proven throughout playoffs. This series will end in a 4-0 sweep for Tampa Bay, Pittsburgh probably won’t be able to keep up in any of the games let alone the series.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
NY Islanders have been the most underrated team in the East, leading their division and beating strong teams over and over again, but the playoffs could be a hard road for this team. Montreal’s physical game could be a strong factor in this series as Andrew Ladd and Keith Tkachuk combined for nearly 600 hits, but the team’s overall offense is questionable. Montreal’s Thibault has also had a poor season while the Islanders’ young goalies Justin Pogge and Tuukka Rask have put up more respectable numbers fighting for the starting position. The younger and lower rated Rask is expected to start in the playoffs after putting up almost Vezina-winning numbers. Islanders win in 6.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
Defending Cup champions will host the Rangers in what is sure to be a fast paced and exciting series, but expect the puck to be controlled mostly by Boston. Mats Sundin and Brian Rolston will be the only real threat the Rangers have, but goalies could also become a major factor as Roman Cechmanek posted considerably better stats than Marc Denis this year. Boston wins in 6.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
This will be an interesting series as middle ranking series always are, a seven game series seems likely here. Jaromir Jagr and his effective play could single-handedly change the story of the series, but others like Scott Hartnell and Saku Koivu can be expected to chip in. Buffalo has to rely on the team play of first liners Milan Hejduk, Alexei Yashin and Tuomo Ruutu. Not much should be expected from Buffalo rookies Steve Downie and Devan Dubnyk or veteran goalie Brian Boucher who are all untested in playoffs. Toronto goaltender Dwayne Roloson, however, has proven himself more than capable. Toronto wins in 7.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
Nashville will dominate Calgary the whole series with the strong play of Ilya Kovalchuk and Dany Heatley, but don’t be surprised to see Sergei Gonchar leading Nashville either. Calgary will have to focus their scattered offense with Daniel Alfredsson as he’s the most likely player to give Calgary a chance in any of these games. Calgary looks to be completely outclassed in every category except goaltenders, where both goalies are expected to perform fairly well in each game. Nashville wins in 4.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
This could be an interesting series, Minnesota’s defense has been extremely shaky since dealing Wade Redden for Marek Zidlicky and San Jose has been underperforming all season. Can new acquisition Todd Bertuzzi power the offensively challenged Wild? Can Palffy perform without playmaker Vaclav Prospal? This series will come down to the goalies, and Minnesota has San Jose dominated with last year’s Vezina winner and this year’s Vezina nominee Marty Turco. Minnesota wins in 6.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
Chicago has consistently been the most threatening playoff team in ECHL history. With two Western conference trophies and a Stanley Cup, this team is obviously built for the playoffs. Phoenix, however, is coming into this post-season with a vastly different roster than they had last year. Gone are ex-superstar Ed Belfour and two-way centre Kyle Chipchura in favor of super-veterans Martin Brodeur and Joe Sakic. This is probably the hardest series to determine, especially with the outstanding play this year from second line centre Doug Weight and veteran defenseman Al Macinnis while Chicago’s secondary scoring has been exceptionally weak this year. Phoenix wins in 7.
After Deadline:
- Chicago had a mediocre 11-10-3 record after the deadline
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
A tight series between these two but with Dan Cloutier out for the first two games it could just let us say that the series is over. Jason Arnott and Radim Vrbata is the scoring power for the Canunks. Columbus after many seasons with out a goalie, they have finally goten a goalie to add with there power defense with Chris Pronger and Zheno Chara in the line up not many shots will be allowed also with there whole team being balanced nobody knows how much Vancouver can take. Columbus in 5.
After Deadline:
Who to watch out for:
Regular Season Games:
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Hammy 1st Team All-Stars
Hammy 2nd Team All-Stars
Sunday, September 21, 2008 ECHL Beat Reporter's ECHL4 Playoff Preview
This has all the makings of a David vs. Goliath match-up. The Penguins squeaked into the playoffs in the last few weeks of the season. The Lightning ran over the rest of the league during the regular season. The Penguins will try. The Lightning will not budge. The end result will be a Lightning victory in five games.
This series will be a bit of a mystery. The Islanders have been a consistent team throughout the season, and Montreal has quietly snuck into the playoffs with very little attention. On paper, both teams appear fairly even, but the money is on the Islanders. Islanders in six games.
Boston comes in as the defending Stanley Cup champions. They are the team with the bullz-eye on their jerseys instead of their traditional ‘B’. The Rangers would like nothing better than to dethrone the champs. It has all the ingredients for a classic series. The numbers favor the Bruins, which will take this series in seven games.
This is a bit of a dark horse match-up. Both the Sabres and Maple Leafs have put together solid season with very little separating them. The Leafs come in as the team that eliminated the President’s Trophy winners from Tampa Bay last season, so they have a reputation as giant killers. Toronto in six games.
The Predators have a lot to prove. They are consistent in both the regular and post seasons…regular season Western Conference champions, post season train wrecks. Calgary has a young team, and is not on the same skill level as Nashville. The Preds will eliminate the Flames in five games.
The Wild have trouble scoring goals. The Sharks are proficient at preventing them. This match-up will be interesting to watch as it unfolds. The Wild rely on Turco to outlast their opponents. The Sharks have a few weapons on their roster that could make Turco’s life miserable. Prediction: Sharks in seven games.
The Coyotes have all the talents and tools to go a long way, but face a steady opponent in the Blackhawks. Both teams carry some high firepower, but the series will be decided by goaltending. Phoenix holds the edge over Chicago in that regard. The Coyotes will defeat the Blackhawks in six games.
This would have been a solid match-up if not for the ill-timed injury to star netminder Dan Cloutier. This leaves the Canucks in a bind. Columbus will exploit this weakness and dispatch the Canucks. Blue Jackets in five games.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008 Plenty of Off-Season Changes in Thrashers’ Camp
In a season that saw plenty of turmoil in Atlanta, the happiest sound for the Thrashers’ management was the final buzzer of the third period in Washington. The end result symbolized the Thrashers’ season: a 5-1 thrashing of the Thrashers by the Washington Capitals. “It’s actually a relief,” assistant general manager Sarah Buckley remarked. “Now we can focus our attention on rebuilding this franchise. This year has been disgraceful.” It was a season that saw many stars shuffle through Atlanta. Gone are the likes of Joe Sakic, Oleg Saprykin, and David Aebischer. Cap issues and lack of future prospects prompted the selling of the Thrashers’ assets. When the dust settled, the Thrashers limped over the finish line with a 25-49-8-3 record, but with plenty of optimism for the future. Seven draft picks…including three first round picks ... and over $20 million available in salary cap space are the causes for that optimism. “We were pushing dangerously close to the cap limit and showing nothing for it,” general manager Justin Halbersma commented at the end of the Capitals’ game. “So earlier in the season, the decision was made to blow up the whole roster with an eye for the future. It wasn’t easy to part with those players. It was purely a rebuilding decision to do so. All of them are top notch players, and if it happens, we would welcome any of them back at any point. We made sure they knew that. And now we have a vision for the future, lots of cap room, and a plan.” Expect lots of action from the Thrashers’ camp in the off-season. The scouts are scrambling to get their prospects list in. Neither Buckley nor Halbersma offered a comment on the draft, just a brief message: “It may not feel like it at first, but these are exciting times,” Halbersma remarked. “We’re asking our fans to be patient with us during the off-season, and we’re asking for their patience during next season. We will be competitive next year. And we will contend for the Cup within three seasons. We’re not ignoring you, our loyal fans. This pain is necessary for long-term growth. Please bear with us.”
Thursday, August 21, 2008 Hurricanes Announce Second GM of ECHL4 The ownership of the failing Carolina Hurricanes have had a rough season after watching their second GM in team history - and second GM of the season - take a walk last month. The end result saw the Hurricanes continue a season-long slide that now finds them well under .500, facing a post-season with no playoffs, and a fanbase that has become more and more vocally irate as of late. Acknowledging these issues the team officially hired a fresh face to guide the team into the future, former assistant coach of Bill Read's Minnesota Wild, Seb Pritchard. "I can't wait to get started, I'm happy to take over in Carolina," remarked Pritchard in his first press conference as the new GM. When asked what would make him a success in Carolina his response was an obvious love for sports in general, with a history in managing fantasy leagues: "I love all sports. I love to watch, read, play, and talk about sports. I have been active in many Yahoo fantasy leagues for many years now." When the local media pressed for some personal information about Pritchard his response seemed meant to endear himself with some of the other league GMs with a reputation for enjoying a good party by noting "other than my intense love for sports I am a regular 25 year old guy. I like to party, meet girls, drink beer, play some video games and have a chill time." Pritchard takes over the Hurricanes starting Friday night in Philadelphia, and his contact information can be found on the GM List.
Thursday, August 21, 2008 Avalanche Tumbling Downhill
“I never signed in Denver for this,” center Darcy Tucker remarked tersely. “This has been a disaster! I want a Cup, not forever looking up at the rest of the West!” Although the Avalanche have been putting together a few wins of late, the overwhelming consensus for the Colorado organization is that it’s much too late. “We’ll need a miracle,” predicted forward John LeClair. “This is a horrible way to spend the last few years of my career... the promises of making the playoffs, the predictions of overcoming this deficit... it’s impossible! Who is management trying to kid?” The Avalanche are currently hovering tied for third last in the Western Conference, with a seventeen point spread between them and the eighth playoff spot. With few prospects and little help looming on the horizon, the Avalanche faithful aren’t giving much optimism for next season as well. "I can't wait for my FA status to kick in," goaltender Garth Snow muttered as he skated off after practise. "First chance I get, I'm gone." It stands to be a cold long winter in Denver for a while.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 Tales of a Fangless Predator
“This is the year we’ll show something,” promised Mike Modano. “I think this will be our year.. we picked up Sergei this season, and he is the premier defenseman in the league. We’ll be there.” Brave and strong words from a star centerman. The fact remains, until the Predators put together a deep playoff run, they will forever be known as playoff wannabes.. a team built for the regular season, not the playoffs. It is a label most of the team is eager to shake off. “Look out West,” Dany Heatley commented. “We’re hungry, we’re strong, and we want the Cup. The East has had it for the last two season…time for us to take it back.” Time will tell.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 ECHL Scout's Top 16 The ECHL Scout returns with his picks for the top eight in each Conference. Agree? Disagree? Take it to the Zonk!
East
West A lot of things can happen during the race for the final top 16... some teams could get kicked out. In the East Pittsburgh is closing in, in the West Los Angeles is only a couple wins behind... time will tell.. don't be surprised to see Pittsburgh and Los Angeles kick out a team.
Thursday, August 7, 2008 Opening Faceoff Scouting The mysterious 'Puck Prognosticator' has dropped the following inaugural "Opening Faceoff Scouting" report in our inbox. It looks at the playoffs only 20 games away and who may (or may not) do some damage. Check it out and post your thoughts on the Zonk! The Favorites Tampa Bay — A juggernaut through the regular season thus far, the Lightning, led by Mark Maranzan, have something to prove after last season’s disappointing playoffs. It remains to be seen this season if anyone can square up to this powerhouse through a seven game series. Nashville — For too long, Evan Carter’s Predators have been an enigma, boasting solid regular season records, but crumbling in the playoffs. Could this be the season of vindication for Nashville? Boston — No one can count out the defending Stanley Cup champions. Rick Jessup has put together another solid showing during the season, but it remains to be seen if his Bruins can skate with the Lightning. Minnesota — Bill Read has made some dazzlingly bold moves to strengthen an already formidable Wild club. However, can they skate with the Lightning? They have enjoyed some success against Tampa Bay, but there are doubts they can hold their own against a Lightning team should they both reach the Finals. The Dark Horses NY Islanders — Ryan McCullough has quietly gone about his business, guiding the Islanders into one of the top three positions in the Eastern Conference. They should get through the first round, should get through the second…but then there’d be the Lightning. San Jose — Michael Wolfe, after taking over the Sharks, has maintained a success story in guiding them to a top three place thus far. They possess enough depth to skate with any of the Western powerhouses, and any success will not be seen as a shock by any experts. Toronto — The Leafs have flown under the radar, guided by Sam Steggles’ steady hand. They just find ways to win. Having upset the Lightning last year, few would be surprised if they went far into the playoffs again; however, they don’t want to face a Tampa squad bent on revenge. Columbus — Doug Moore has assembled a squad in the Blue Jackets that has enough firepower to throw a scare into the Western Conference, and any team would be foolish to take them lightly. Buffalo - The Sabres, under Paul Maranzan's guidance, have compiled a competitive team, but the road still runs through Tampa... few believe the Sabres have the firepower to upset the Lightning if they meet in the playoffs. The Long Shots Montreal — They’re not a bad team.. Dave McGarva just has the misfortune that every other Eastern team has.. having to go through the wall that is Tampa. The Canadiens could put up a fight, but don’t have the horses to compete with the Lightning. Phoenix — Here is a team that could throw some upsets in the Western Conference. Bold deadline deals have made Shawn Trumble’s team a silent contender. Don’t be surprised to see the Coyotes in the Finals. NY Rangers — Again, the same problem as every other Eastern team.. the road to the Finals goes through Tampa Bay. John House’s Rangers will try, but few see them lasting past the first round. Vancouver — Not much is heard from the Canucks’ camp this season. Mark Weinstein has put together a competitive squad, but drawing the Wild or Preds in the first round is a scary proposition for this team. Honorable Mention New Jersey — Chris Ambrozic knows the strategies, but do his Devils have the punch to get through the Bulin Wall in Tampa? As it stands, they face the Lightning first round.. and to any observer, a Lightning win should be a no brainer. Calgary — Despite several acquisitions and trades, the Flames hold a very slim grip on the eighth and final spot. Kevin Wilde better have some late season and playoff magic up his sleeve if he wants to make a splash.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008 Coyotes Starting to Howl in Phoenix
“We have a good chance,” Sakic said after a disappointing overtime loss to the Dallas Stars. “Sure, we lost tonight, but look at the type of goals.. two deflections off our own players’ skates, and a rebound off a breakaway. Those are the type of goals that no one can do anything about. We have a strong feeling about doing some damage this postseason.” While Morris was not in the lineup for the game, his presence will add a dimension to the Coyotes’ blueline not seen in a while. There is a great deal of anticipation in Phoenix, as the new addition, as well as the team starting to gel at the right time. The fans have returned, and the Coyotes hope to reward them with a strong showing. “Whether it’s Nashville, Minny, or the Sharks, we feel we’ll be ready for them,” Brodeur commented. “Anyone can pull an upset.. it’s a whole new season.” The season is winding down. The competition is heating up. Time will tell about the additions in Phoenix, but there is a sense of excitement growing as the stretch run becomes the focus for all contending teams.
![]() Monday, August 4, 2008 Flames land Alfredsson, Gill; Flurry of Small Deals Close Deadline
"It was very difficult to say goodbye to a future star like Hemsky," noted Wilde, "however, we felt we owed it to our fans to make every effort to get into the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. We're very excited to add a player of Alfie's caliber to our lineup. Hopefully, we not only make the playoffs, but can do some damage when we get there." It was a different story in Florida where Andre Drouillard had the responsibility of reassuring his fans that the rebuilding pains were temporary. "Deadline deals have bettered Florida for the future at a steep cost in the near term. We realize that this year has not quite gone the way we intended it but moving some veterans early on like Sakic and Guerin had more of an impact than first anticipated. We aren't calling it quits this year, moving Alfie and Morris gives some of the young guys a chance to really shine. Russell, Weber and Suter on D can step up into a much bigger role; Perry, Zetteberg, and, Kessel will all have a chance to step into some serious ice time which should make them much better for years to come." He reaffirmed the rental nature of the deal with "next year, as Morris and Alfredsson come back to Florida, we should be in great shape to contend for the Cup. we also felt that Daniel deserved the opportunity to compete for the Cup this year as well and Calgary seemed like a great fit where his leadership skills can help ignite passion in the younger players. Morris was happy with the opportunity to return to Florida at year end and is looking forward to being the number 1 guy next year and help to develop the younger future stars." In Phoenix an excited Shawn Trumble said that, while his offense had fired up in recent weeks, the blueline had remained an Achilles heel for the Coyotes, and bringing Morris in for the playoffs would help. "Morris is an amazing puck moving defenseman with also a great defensive mind as well, with the Phoenix scorers clicking Morris will just make goals come that much easier." While total trades were down over previous ECHL seasons it did seem an exciting deadline nonetheless as the teams embark on the final drive for Lord Stanley's Cup. Friday, August 1, 2008 Leclaire Motoring to Detroit; Rebuilding Thrashers Nab 1st Pick
Given the confidence of the elite ECHL club earlier this year after a trade with the Phoenix Coyotes, Lehtonen was never able to live up to the hype in the Motor City while sporting a lowly .891 save percentage. It appears any effort to contend this season will come behind the older Leclaire. In an Atlanta press conference the media pressed hard on GM Justin Halbersma who continued to reiterate that the fire sale of the past few weeks was due to a much needed rebuilding for the troubled franchise. "Leclaire has played very well for us, and it was a hard choice to trade him," started Halbersma "But when the prospect of a first round pick is available, especially when we need to rebuild, long term is what we're looking at." A journalist from the Atlanta Journal Constitution attacked with the concise "did you give up on Pascal?" Halbersma was eloquent in his response of "not at all, he's a tremendous goaltender with a bright future. He will be a star but I have to think long term. We wish Pascal all the best in his new environment and we're looking forward to the draft and seeing how we can stock our roster with young talent."
Thursday, July 31, 2008 Wings Pull Blockbuster; Bertuzzi to Wild
"Detroit needed to get better defensively given the status of their young goalie and Bill needed to improve his offense," stated one-time Jack Adams winning Detroit GM Peter Lacasse succinctly. Mired in an unfamiliar spot three points out of the playoffs Lacasse seemed to be keeping an eye down the road with the promise "next year Detroit will be a force to be reckoned with, I promise." Minnesota's sophomore GM Bill Read was more talkative during a Wild press conference featuring only the manager who quickly took his seat and launched into "offense. Please. I'll do anything! I'm so sick of these low scoring games. The fans in Minny want some action!" Read had watched his Wild charge out of the gate earlier this season to a huge Western lead only to watch the team clam up offensively while the Nashville Predators stole the Conference lead from them. "I made a few trades a couple weeks ago that I felt would help spark my offense but then with only 12 goals in my last six games I realized a more drastic change was needed. Todd Bertuzzi is that drastic change, a true power forward in every sense of the term. In addition to Todd's dominant presence, I have added a solid second line passing centre in Daymond Langkow. I think his playmaking will help spark our secondary offense. Read continued when prodded about the decision to trade fan favourite Wade Redden. "Trading (Redden) has been the most difficult decision I've ever had to make as a GM in this league. Wade has been a big part of this organization for a long time and I wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors. Although Marek Zidlicky will fill Redden's shoes offensively, Wade's rock solid defensive play will be greatly missed. I know there will be some sad to see him go but the reality is that you have to give up great players to acquire great players. I am also quite excited about landing some amazing young defensive prospects in Scott Lehman and Alex Plante. I think Lehman will fill Markov's void on our second or third line." Is it possible the first deal of the deadline will be the largest? Only time will tell.
![]() Sunday, July 27, 2008
The cat with all that is back! Although the real Hammy has long since departed, his spirit lives on with this special edition of Hammy's All-Star picks... Hammy's wisdom will pick one potential MVP from both the East and the West. In the East, Hammy suggests that Alex Ovechkin will announce once and for all that he has arrived... Ovechkin is Hammy's MVP pick from the East. However, should Hammy's pick from the West live up to the expectation, Ovechkin may find no success... Hammy suggests Tomas Vokoun will step to the forefront and stonewall the East in his appearance, earning MVP honors for the west. Hammy will also select a 1st and 2nd All Star team at season's end. Stay tuned.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
East Young Stars at West Young Stars
Scoring Summary
Ryan Miller (East), 0 saves out of 1 shots
East Young Stars 0 for 0
1 - Steve Downie (East)
Kari Lehtonen enters game at 15:19 of 2nd period Saturday, July 26, 2008 ECHL Scout Picks His All-Star Results Now it's time for the big boys, these rosters look insane, but we will see who plays better with who. Glen Murray, the captain of the East is the best scorer in ECHL history but the West have the best upcoming scorers in ECHL history with Ilya Kovalchuk and Marian Gaborik in the line up. The west captain Markus Nasland will have to lead his team to victory Sunday night. The Cinderella story here is ... will the dominating East scorers do well against the stacked defense of the West, we will find out Sunday night.
![]() ![]()
East Forwards Joe Thornton Cory Stillman Glen Murray Mats Sundin Alexander Ovechkin Pavol Demitra Olli Jokinen Scott Hartnell Milan Hejduk Marc Savard Scott Gomez Scott Walker
East Defense Nicklas Lidstrom Martin Grenier Paul Mara Brian Rafalski Janne Niinimaa Chris Campoli Jaroslav Spacek Alexei Zhitnik
East Goalies Nikolai Khabibulin Marc Denis Tuuka Rask
West Forwards Alex Tanguay Markus Naslund Marian Gaborik Doug Weight Ilya Kovalchuk Jarome Iginla Daniel Briere Nikolai Zherdev Zigmund Palffy Mario Lemieux Adam Deadmarsh Blake Wheeler
West Defense Chris Pronger Sergei Gonchar Scott Niedermayer Bryan McCabe Brad Stuart Ed Jovanovski Brent Sopel Kim Johsson
West Goalies Marty Turco Dan Cloutier Tomas Vokoun
Friday, July 25, 2008 West edges East in ECHL4 Skills Competition The second ever ECHL skills competition pitted the ECHL elite against each other with the assembled squads of Rick Jessup and Peter Lacasse facing off in an exciting and epic battle of the best, with bragging rights leading up to Sunday's big face-off on the line. The skills competition got underway with the Puck Control Relay, Pair event that saw Jessup lead-off with Alexander Ovechkin and Martin Grenier; Peter Lacasse countered with Marian Gaborik and Sergei Gonchar. It was never close with Gaborik opening up a significant early lead that Gonchar had no issue widening and the West was first on the board. The Puck Control Relay, Individual followed immediately and featured Ilya Kovalchuk representing the West for a second straight year against Milan Hejduk for the East with the speedy Predator opening up an insurmountable lead on the Sabre star, defending his crown and again providing a win for the West.
Next up was the Fastest Skater competition with a point on the line for both the conference with the fastest cumulative time and the individual with the quickest feet. Philadelphia's quick-footed winger, Alexander Ovechkin, would lead things off again this year, posting an impressive time-to-beat of 14.529 seconds for the East. However, the dominating star of ECHL skills, Kovalchuk, wasted no time shattering the ECHL record books with a 13.412 second time. Brian Rafalski posted a 15.235, followed by an unsuccessful attempt to resecure the record by the last year's champion, Marian Gaborik, with a 13.559. Hejduk would close things off for the East with a 15.294, and Zigmund Palffy's 14.559 would end things off with a full four-second victory for the West.
Last year's most popular event was the Hardest Shot contest, with Todd Bertuzzi's stunning 105.7 MPH shot shaking the rafters in Florida and making headlines across the world. With Bertuzzi not in the big show it was a question of who might be able to steal the show this year. The answer came fairly quickly when Boston's power forward Joe Thornton leaned into the first shot of the evening for a blistering 103.2 MPH start to the event. It would be the hardest shot of round one after postings of 101.7 for Kovalchuk; 101.3 for Glen Murray; 98.3 for Scott Hartnell; 96.0 for Mats Sundin; 95.4 for Mario Lemieux; 94.8 for Chris Pronger; and 91.2 for Jarome Iginla. A temporary hush fell over the crowd as Thornton stepped up for his second and final shot, unleashing a beyond comprehension 107.5 MPH bomb for a new ECHL record and first point for the East. Other second round scores were 100.0 for Sundin; 98.8 for Pronger; 97.6 for Kovalchuk; 97.2 for Murray; 95.0 for Iginla; 94.4 for Hartnell; and 91.6 for Lemieux. Lacasse's crew would take a second hit with the East's crew posting a cumulative speed 3.9 MPH faster than the West.
Accuracy Shooting was up next and Jessup again turned to last year's star, Glen Murray, to continue the East's winning efforts. Murray did the unthinkable by, for a second year in a row, hitting all four foam targets in only four shots - again the only player to do so - taking home the most accurate shooter title and a third straight point for the East. Victory was short-lived, however, after the 4-in-5 performances by the entire Western lineup of Markus Naslund, Gaborik, Kovalchuk, Iginla were too much for the 4-in-6 provided by Hejduk and 4-in-7 performances by Demitra and Ovechkin.
The In the Zone competition saw all six goaltenders put on a clinic and dazzling the crowd with their acrobatics. Three teams of three players were pitted against a goaltender with six pucks to fire. The West offered up Alex Tanguay, Naslund, and Gaborik; Doug Weight, Kovalchuk, and Palffy; and Daniel Briere, Adam Deadmarsh, and Iginla. The East countered with Thornton, Scott Gomez, and Murray; Sundin, Cory Stillman, and Hejduk; and Marc Savard, Scott Hartnell, and Demitra. It was a see-saw battle with Marty Turco, Tomas Vokoun, and Dan Cloutier all stopping four of six shots, while Tuukka Rask and Nikolai Khabibulin matched those results for a 6-4 Eastern Conference lead going into the final Briere-Deadmarsh-Iginla showdown with Marc Denis. Unfortunately for the West the third line was unable to muster enough offense, potting only one and offering the East a 6-5 win.
The night would come to a close with the popular Shootout segment which would see 12 shooters from the East - Murray, Demitra, Hejduk, Stillman, Sundin, Ovechkin, Nicklas Lidstrom, Thornton, Gomez, Hartnell, Scott Walker, and Martin Grenier - take on 12 shooters from the West - Naslund, Palffy, Iginla, Gaborik, Kovalchuk, Gonchar, Tanguay, Deadmarsh, Scott Niedermayer, Briere, Weight, and Pronger - in three rounds of four shooters. In the end it would be the East plugging in three goals (Murray, Demitra, and Hejduk) vs two by the West (Naslund and Palffy) during the team competition.
The one-on-one segment followed with one chosen skater from each side taking on their top goaltender. It would be Markus Naslund against Tuuka Rask and Glen Murray taking on Marty Turco for the second straight year with each player getting three chances to score. Both would miss their first and second attemps before the league's top goal scorer in Naslund electrified the Ottawa crowd with a surprise slapshot from the left of the net over the glove of the young Rask; the competition would again come down to Murray vs Turco. Murray came fast and sharp down the centre, dropping the puck between his legs only to kick it behind his left skate on to his waiting stick and lifting it blocker side towards open mesh - only to be swatted aside by a flailing Turco, beating the Lightning superstar and securing a Western win yet again.
Friday, July 25, 2008 ECHL Scout Weighs In on Young Stars The ECHL All Star Game is about to begin, While all the GMs can take a break on the stress and have some fun. Alot of great players in the Young Stars and All Star Games. When you see these rosters you all think to yourself "I AM GONNA HAVE SOME FUN". We all have our fantasy lines here, I am gonna share mine, starting with the young stars: East
Boston Bruins C: Marek Zagrapan GP:55 G:16 A:21 P:37 Buffalo Sabres LW: Devin Setoguchi GP:50 G:15 A:20 P:35 New York Islanders RW: Jack Skille GP:55 G:26 A:30 P:56 Buffalo Sabres D: Marc Staal GP:55 G:3 A:27 P:30 Boston Bruins D: Mike Green GP:54 G:5 A:16 P:21 Buffalo Sabres G: Devan Dubnyk GA:2.28 W:20 L:13 T:3 SO:6 GA:81 SA:947 PCT:.914 West
Edmonton Oilers C: Andrew Cogliano GP:54 G:10 A:24 P:34 Anaheim Ducks LW: Lee Stempniak GP:54 G:17 A:21 P:38 St. Louis Blues RW: Bobby Ryan GP:55 G:20 A:26 P:46 Phoenix Coyotes D: Andrej Meszaros GP:55 G:2 A:25 P:27 Calgary Flames D: Jakub Kindl GP:55 G:5 A:21 P:26 Dallas Stars G: Jeff Glass GA:2.64 W:17 L:29 T:3 SO:4 GA:128 SA:1351 PCT:.905 Young stars game will be one good game with the East and its powerful scoring against the tough defense of the West, this should be one interesting game. The final score will be around 7 for the West and 5 for the East. Good luck to all players!
Thursday, July 24, 2008 ECHL4 All Star Rosters Announced While controvery broils over the Young Stars rosters announced yesterday the ECHL Commissioner office wasted no time in releasing the All Star game rosters prior to games this evening. There should be no controvery over the selection of four members of the Tampa Bay Lightning, a team creating a new definition for an ECHL monopoly with 91 points in only 55 games. Three members will arrive in Ottawa on behalf of the Boston Bruins, Nashville Predators, and Detroit Red Wings. The rosters facing off this Sunday night will be:
EASTERN CONFERENCE WESTERN CONFERENCE C Joe Thornton, Boston C Alex Tanguay, St. Louis C Olli Jokinen, Washington C Doug Weight, Phoenix C Mats Sundin, NY Rangers C Daniel Briere, Detroit C Marc Savard, Florida C Mario Lemieux, Dallas LW Cory Stillman, Tampa Bay LW Markus Naslund, St. Louis LW Scott Hartnell, Toronto LW Ilya Kovalchuk, Nashville LW Alexander Ovechkin, Philadelphia LW Nikolai Zherdev, Calgary LW Scott Gomez, Pittsburgh LW Adam Deadmarsh, Edmonton RW Glen Murray, Tampa Bay RW Jarome Iginla, Detroit RW Pavol Demitra, NY Islanders RW Zigmund Palffy, San Jose RW Milan Hejduk, Buffalo RW Marian Gaborik, Chicago RW Scott Walker, Atlanta RW Blake Wheeler, Anaheim D Nicklas Lidstrom, Boston D Sergei Gonchar, Nashville D Brian Rafalski, Washington D Bryan McCabe, Minnesota D Alexei Zhitnik, Montreal D Chris Pronger, Columbus D Janne Niinimaa, Tampa Bay D Kim Johnsson, Los Angeles D Martin Grenier, New Jersey D Brad Stuart, Vancouver D Chris Campoli, Carolina D Ed Jovanovski, Detroit D Paul Mara, Buffalo D Scott Niedermayer, Nashville D Jaroslav Spacek, Ottawa D Brent Sopel, Colorado G Tuuka Rask, NY Islanders G Marty Turco, Minnesota G Nikolai Khabibulin, Tampa Bay G Dan Cloutier, Vancouver G Marc Denis, Boston G Tomas Vokoun, Calgary Wednesday, July 23, 2008 ECHL4 Young Stars Rosters Announced The roster for the second ECHL Young Stars game has been announced with the youth-focused Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, and Dallas Stars leading the charge while the aged Colorado Avalanche are the only team unrepresented in the big game. The rosters facing off this Saturday night are:
EASTERN CONFERENCE WESTERN CONFERENCE C Matthew Lombardi, Carolina C Nicklas Backstrom, Nashville C Marek Zagrapan, Boston C Billy Ryan, Chicago C Martin Hanzal, Tampa Bay C David Krejci, Phoenix C Derek Roy, Montreal C Andrew Cogliano, Edmonton LW Nigel Dawes, NY Islanders LW Patrick Kane, Dallas LW Lukas Kaspar, Washington LW Lee Stempniak, Anaheim LW Devin Setoguchi, Buffalo LW Nick Foligno, San Jose LW Bryan Bickell, NY Rangers LW Ryan Malone, St. Louis RW Jack Skille, NY Islanders RW Michael Grabner, Columbus RW Steve Downie, Buffalo RW Bobby Ryan, St. Louis RW Robert Nilsson, Pittsburgh RW Joffrey Lupul, Detroit RW Corey Perry, Florida RW Nick Johnson, Minnesota D Marc Staal, Buffalo D Brian Lee, Calgary D Kyle Wharton, NY Rangers D Kevin Bieksa, Vancouver D Mike Green, Boston D Kyle Klubertanz, Los Angeles D Christian Ehrhoff, Philadelphia D Jakub Kindl, Calgary D Kirill Lyamin, New Jersey D Braydon Coburn, Dallas D Ole-Kristian Tollefso, Toronto D Matt Pelech, Chicago D Ryan Parent, Boston D Grant Lewis, Los Angeles D Alex Goligoski, Montreal D Andrej Meszaros, Phoenix G Devan Dubnyk, Buffalo G Jeff Glass, Dallas G Ryan Miller, Ottawa G Kari Lehtonen, Detroit G Pascal Leclaire, Atlanta G Hannu Toivonen, Anaheim Tuesday, July 22, 2008 All-Star Details Released The ECHL Commissioner Office has finally released the details surrounding the ECHL4 All-Star Week including a roster of superstars and young stars to come this week that will compete in two games and a skills competition over this coming weekend. Hosting the festivities will be the Scotiabank Place in Ottawa, Ontario.
Friday, July 25: All-Star Skills Competition All 30 ECHL teams will be represented in the All-Star Game, while the only consideration to the Young Stars Game was assembling the best and brightest of the ECHL's future regardless of team representation. The office announced the roster for the Young Stars would be revealed Wednesday the 23rd and the full All-Star roster a day later on Thursday the 24th. Friday night will bring a competition featuring Puck Control Relay, Fastest Skater, Hardest Shot, Accuracy Shooting, In the Zone, and Shootout. Finally, the coach and manager of the Eastern All-Stars will be defending Stanley Cup Champion Rick Jessup of the Boston Bruins. The defending All-Star champion Western Conference will be coached and managed by Peter Lacasse of the Detroit Red Wings after Conrad Rosario of the Chicago Blackhawks was unable to fulfill his duties as the last team standing in the West during ECHL3. Stay tuned for more events as the week continues; do note that games will continue as scheduled through Thursday.
Sunday, July 20, 2008 Scoring Woes Plague Thrashers
"We had to cut salary, trade assets to get assets, because it appeared the players quit!" Halbersma seethed in his office. "We had the horses to run with, and judging by some of their performances on other teams, they still haven't woken up!" The outburst came after the Thrashers' latest setback, a 3-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. The Avalanche are climbing up the Western Conference standings, while the Thrashers have continued to fall. "Outshot, outclassed, outhit, outplayed!" assistant GM Sarah Buckley raged after the game. "Outshot 37-28...if it wasn't for Leclaire, we'd have been run out of the rink!" It was discovered that former star goaltender David Aebischer, disgusted with the team defense, had requested a trade out of Atlanta. "We felt that given the status of Abby, and what he's done for us, it would be best to honor his request," Halbersma said. "He made it very clear in my office he wanted to go to a team where the defense would actually try. Judging from his comments in Edmonton, it looks like he's very happy there. We wish him the best." Yes, the dust seems to have settled in Thrasherland for the time being, as there are no trades on the immediate horizon. However, that doesn't mean all is serene. Buckley and Halbersma have made it very clear big changes could be on the way in the offseason. "We have a stockpile of draft picks that we will use to begin a rebuilding process in certain areas that we need to improve in," Buckley commented. "Our scouts are working 16 hour days preparing for a crucial draft for us. We have a lot of cap room to aggressively pursue free agents. We have a few names that will not be moved. Jakub Sindel has a no trade clause, and he is a key to our rebuilding. This offseason, we shall see. The trade deadline is coming up. Maybe more picks can fall our way for certain players who may like a change of scenery." "It's frustrating," newly appointed team captain Mike Fisher said. "We're not scoring. We're not being blown out of the rink, but we're not putting the puck in. A few bounces, a few different moments, and maybe some of those 2-1 games go our way. Our GAA as a team is hovering around three. We need to do something..." The season is winding down, mercifully for the Thrashers, losers of their last five games. With the playoffs all but unreachable, Halbersma and Buckley have been studying the hundreds of scouting reports that have poured in through emails and fax lines. "The end can't come fast enough this season," was Halbersma's final, terse comment.
Sunday, July 20, 2008 Minnesota: defensively sound, offensively challenged?
“Our team currently sits 23rd overall in the league with only 119 goals for in 51 games. Despite the lack of offense, we still are sitting pretty at 4th overall in the standings. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what we need here for a serious run at Lord Stanley.” For the second straight season GM Bill Read traded away all his valuable draft picks in an effort to upgrade his team’s offense. New in the dressing room are the following promising young stars: Sasha Pokulok (21 yrs old), Nick Johnson (22 yrs old), and Oleg Saprykin (24 yrs old). Jan Hrdina was also added to the fold bringing some much needed speed and passing to the team’s secondary offense. This is in addition to the team adding veteran right winger Bill Guerin earlier on in the year. “We feel as if we have a much more balanced offensive attack than where we were at a few months back. Bringing in Guerin made things a little more difficult in terms of salary cap space. I am happy that we were able to acquire the players we did with the little cap room we had to work with. We picked up some solid young guys that we feel will be contributing for many years to come.” In what may feel like a case of Déjà vu, Minnesota is in a tight race with Nashville to claim the #1 seed in the Western Conference. Also, ECHL4 MVP goaltender Marty Turco has continued his dominance for Minnesota posting up a league leading 1.94 goals against average and a .923 save percentage. “Marty is simply amazing. We work him like a horse and he never complains. He just goes out there and leads by example giving us a chance to win every single night. If we could sew a “C” on his jersey it would have already been there.” Time will tell if these acquisitions will be substantial enough to break the offensive slump but one thing is clear and that is this organization is committed to winning. “That has been my goal here since day one. Win the Stanley Cup. We are very excited this year as we feel we have the right guys to get the job done. That is not to say we are done dealing, there is 9 days left until the trade deadline and we will be actively pursuing new ways to improve our team up front.”
Saturday, July 19, 2008 Edmonton Stars Struggle to Succeed
Adding Deadmarsh, Aebischer, Modry and Dempsey has done little to exorcise the offensive demons. Deadmarsh has struggled to fit in with the young phenom Cogliano except for a few flashes of brilliance and hope, but it appears that Moore is almost at his wits end and needs to right this ship before its too late. Rumors abound that both Aebischer and Deadmarsh may be headed out just as fast as they came in. When asked for a comment, Deadmarsh said, "I don't know what's wrong, Cogs is amazing. He's young and full of desire, we get along great off the ice but on the ice its a whole different story! Maybe that kid is just too good." Aebischer on the other hand had nothing but glowing praise for his young defence, "Those kids (Stephenson and Stoner) are incredible and playing beyond their years." Veteran blueliner Nathan Dempsey, who has played brilliantly, acquired earlier in the season agreed with Aebischer about the kids, "What can I say, they are stars in the making. I think this blueline here has a great future!" Jaroslav Modry has been quite steady since joining this Oiler team and has brought some much needed experience. Sitting in the press box for much of the season is Sandis Ozolinsh, whose name has been brought up over many a late night MSN convo's. This may be a little unsettling but as Moore states, "If you ain't producing you ain't playing!" When asked, Ozo just stared blankly at this humble reporter and mumbled to himslf and walked away! One can only imagine what must be going on in this former All-Stars head. Suffice it to say, we definitely needs some shaking up and maybe some new direction and faces on the ice. Moore is in this for the long haul and I am sure he will make the best decision for this great franchise.
Saturday, July 5, 2008 Boston, Calgary Team Up; Punk Nashville
"All he (Evan) does is complain about Calgary's trades, and when he's not complaining about Calgary, he's asking me to trade him Thornton. Kevin (Wilde) and I thought this might be a fun distraction to deal with both issues," Jessup remarked. Jessup then pointed towards the roster files to show that players hadn't moved, and subsequently thanked Mark Maranzan for not actually processing the fake trade. When asked for a comment Nashville's Evan Carter responded "U SONF OF A....." Now back to our regularly scheduled programming.
Thursday, June 26, 2008 Thrashers' Losing Ways Prompts Shakeup
"Tough decisions had to be made," Halbersma said. "We weren't getting any younger. Some offers came up that we felt as a staff we couldn't refuse. We wish Joe, David, Adam, and Jaroslav the best on their new teams. Cap space and lack of prospects made these trades necessary." Gone are center Joe Sakic, goalie David Aebischer, defenseman Jaroslav Modry, and left wing Adam Deadmarsh. In their place come goaltender Pascal LeClaire, defender Jakub Kindl, left winger Daniel Sedin, and center Jakub Sindel. In addition, the trades netted a slew of draft picks and cut down considerably on the cap space being eaten up. "We freed up a lot of cap space to pursue free agents and other trades," assistant GM Sarah Buckley remarked. "The draft picks give us options. It's shame we had to give up what we did. But we got back some great rookies and they will be a huge part of our team for years to come." Time will tell what the trades will do. Atlanta has shifted into a rebuilding mode, and while no trades seem openly apparent on the horizon, that could change with the right offers. "Anything is possible," admits Halbersma. "We may be done dealing, we may not." The new influx of youth means that the playoffs may be a dream for this season. But the newcomers seem eager and excited about the new opportunity. "I'll never fill Aebischer's shoes," Pascal leClaire said. "But I know that Daniel and Jakub (Kindl) and myself will do our best to prove we belong at this level and on this team. To be included in a package for someone of Abby's calibre is an honor." The new players will have their chance to shine tomorrow, as the Thrashers prepare to take on the Kings. LeClaire, Kindl, and Sedin will don the Thrashers jersey for the first time. Sindel is staying down on the farm team, developing his skills for the jump next season. "We're excited," Buckley said. "Tomorrow will be a good indicator. We're looking forward to it."
Tuesday, June 10, 2008 Flood Takes Out ECHL Offices Near-record rainfalls in Thunder Bay, Ontario have resulted in an unexpected catastrophe for the ECHL; a flooded office with unknown damages to league servers. Excessive rainfall over a 10-hour period this past weekend dumped upwards of 100mm of rain in the northern Ontario region that houses the league servers, and the result was two inches of water across the floor and inside the main data server. The extent of damage is unknown at this time, but the league was quick to call a hiatus while the situation is surveyed. Commissioner Rick Jessup responded "things look promising, and we're hopeful to be up and running within the week," promising 24-hours notice before things kick back off again.
Friday, May 9, 2008 ECHL League Office to Stage Walkout
"Too many e-mails, too many trades, too much whining, and too little beer," were the only reasons Maranzan would offer when probed for his logic. Jessup was even more cryptic in his response, noting "I'm going fishing, gonna catch me a pike." The two staged a similar walkoff during ECHL3, with Mark pictured at right on the picket lines, but returned to work without any apparent changes to the CBA or terms of their employment. Exactly what terms they're seeking, or what caused the action, will seemingly remain quiet for now. The important news being ECHL fans and GMs will receive an unscheduled week off starting this Wednesday.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008 Caps Shock ECHL, Deal Gonchar
The deal came soon after the suddenly subdued Predators GM, Evan Carter, had made a blockbuster to shore up his wing with Alexei Kovalev. While the quantity of deals have certainly gone down, Carter was quick to note the quality sure hasn't. "Only the trade king can pull a deal like that off, Gonchar is home to where he belongs" he remarked in a terse statement to the league. McCready simply pointed to the number of free agents on his team as the impetus behind the deal. The only question now is if Music City is hosting too many stars as the fight for ice time begins.
Saturday, April 26, 2008 ECHL Scout Team Profile: Boston Bruins
How they are doing?
What the Bruins need:
Future of the Bruins:
Franchise Player: Joe Thornton
Mascot: Cowboy Webster (click to see)
Monday, April 20, 2008 ECHL Scout Team Profile: Los Angeles Kings
How they are doing?
What the Kings need:
Future of the Kings
Franchise Player: Chris Osgood
Mascot: "ie, running man in a thong"
Monday, April 7, 2008 Blockbuster Trade Rocks Music City, Columbus
When asked why he sprung the deal the GM of the Predators, Evan Carter, was less focused on the loss of Hossa and more on the future. "As you may see my farm team has been quite disappointing and the future doesn't look to bright, so I had to strike a deal that didn't really affect my pro roster while getting some good prospects." Alexei Kovalev, pictured at left for the last time in the Blue Jackets' dressing room, expressed sadness to be leaving his teammates in Columbus, but excitement to be returning to a team rife with superstars in Nashville. "When I left the Predators the team was a revolving door, and I was only too happy to get out," remarked Kovalev. "But GM Carter has righted the ship and the players there seem happy, I look forward to returning." Marian Hossa was unavailable for comment. The two wingers will have a chance to fight it out when Columbus rolls into Nashville on day 39 of the ECHL4 season.
Saturday, March 29, 2008 Carolina Announces Jason Grills as Rookie GM
The hockey, golf, and poker fan couldn't have been happier about his appointment, noting "I'm actually a huge Carolina Hurricanes fan, something that started back in the 80's by painfully following the Hartford Whalers for years." His intention, he stated, was to bring the Cup to the loyal fans of Carolina. However, he also issued a note that early on his tenure he may be a bit slow in response as Grills will soon welcome his first child. His first test will come tonight where he will join his Hurricanes in Montreal.
Monday, March 24, 2008 ECHL Returns With 14 Games; Four Shutouts
The excitement looks to continue on Tuesday with three epic battles to behold: Brothers battle when Columbus rolls into Edmonton; former co-Commissioners head face-to-face as Boston travels to Tampa Bay; and most importantly, the always thrilling coaching battle of Yanni vs Mike Tyson will add another chapter when Rocco's Islanders hit Music City, Tennessee.
Monday, February 18, 2008 Here is the draft order for tonight's live draft. Join us in IRC on the EFNet at #echl4. Round One
01 Round Two
31 Round Three
61
Friday, January 18, 2008 Two Teams Lose GMs in ECHL4 Pre-Season Brief months after disappointing seasons saw them watching the Cup playoffs from the sidelines the Carolina Hurricanes and Edmonton Oilers now find themselves seeking new General Managers after a rocky start to the ECHL4 pre-season. The Oilers refused to comment, although reputable sources indicated GM Ian Cunningham was terminated via an e-mail after an announcement to start the season. In Carolina, however, the situation was far more troubling for ECHL head office. Eric Aaviku, the second GM hired prior to the ECHL's first season - and a co-founder whose initial marks the C in the league name - simply found the time constraints of the position were beyond what he wanted, and informed the Hurricanes brass it was time to head home and spend more time with his family. It hit the team - and league - hard to lose a founding father, and co-commissioner Mark Maranzan was quick to offer a single soundbite towards Aaviku: "If at any point in the future you wish to return to the league you know where to find us." Carolina fans, regardless of a disappointing third season, will no doubt wait for that return. As all GM hires must go through the league's head office any interested candidates are encouraged to contact echlcommissioner@gmail.com; referrals are highly regarded.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008 Welcome Back to ECHL4! As promised, ECHL4 is here and ready to go! Co-commissioners Mark and Rick would like to offer our undying thanks to Calgary's Kevin Wilde and Long Island's Ryan McCullough for their efforts in producing the rerates for this season. They did a tremendous job, and did it much more accurately and quickly than we could have ever hoped to. We hope you'll be happy with your new team, which you can now find in the "Team Rosters" tab. News on free agency, trades, and the ECHl4 Live Draft will be forthcoming very soon. In the meantime, get familiar with your team; and if you need to make some deals, get familiar with some of the others as well! Monday, August 20, 2007 Congratulations to Boston and Chicago as they duke it out for the Stanley Cup of ECHL3! In the meantime, awards nominees and voting are finally up! Please head over to the Awards section and read through the available selections. Each area will indicate why that player was selected and allow you to make an informed decision. Once you're aware of your favourites head back to the main Awards area and make your picks. Remember, the Sarah Alders Memorial Award is your pick for the most improved GM of the season. That means only those who participated in the league last year are eligible to vote or win. Finally, remember - awards are to be judged on regular season performance only. Our thanks to the ECHL3 GM Awards Committee: Kevin Wilde, John House, Chris Ambrozic, Shawn Trumble, and Paul Maranzan for taking the time to come up with all of our "top three" in each category! Sunday, July 29, 2007 PLAYOFF ROUND 2 NOTICE Congratulations to all that made it through to the second round. From here on in we will be running 2 game days every night (meaning both the east and west will be playing). So all teams will be in action every night from now till we crown a champion. This is in an effort to finish up the season before September. Good Luck to the remaining teams on your quest for the cup!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Reporting from Glendale, Arizona from the Jobing.com Arena.
Reporter: How are you today, Shawn? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started GM Questions
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for Phoenix?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? You were uncharacteristically reserved with only five transactions, was there a "trade that got away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which clubs are your biggest rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league. Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated & overrated.
Reporter: Who(s) has been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favorite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favorite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favorite defence men
Reporter: Who is your favorite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Shawn, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows.
Saturday, July 14, 2007 PLAYOFF NOTICE Sorry for the delays once again, but do to some minor slip-ups we will not be starting the playoffs tonight. Before we can start some chances need to be made to the ECHL website so we can post the information about the games. Now normally this would not take too long, but Rick has bailed for the weekend and won’t be here to do it. Apparently spending time away with his wife for her birthday is more important than the ECHL.. Go figure. Therefore all things considered we will put off the start of the playoffs till Monday July 16, 2007 @ 8pm EST. Please have your lines submitted by then. This time I promise we will actually get to the games. Everyone enjoy your weekend…
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Reporting from Detroit, Michigan from the Joe Louis Arena.
Reporter: How are you today Peter? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Detroit?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Detroit. Is it time for a change or is your team set.
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league. Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a cup contender? if so why & if not , what will take you become a cup contender.
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? if yes how do you think they will do, if not why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated & overrated.
Reporter: Who(s) has been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favorite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favorite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favorite defence men
Reporter: Who is your favorite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Peter, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Reporting from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from the Mellon Arena. GM Questions
Reporter: How are you today, Rick? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for Pittsburgh?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? You were uncharacteristically reserved with only five transactions, was there a "trade that got away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which clubs are your biggest rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league?
Reporter: Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Rick, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Reporting from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from the Wachovia Center. GM Questions
Reporter: How are you today Brent? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for Philadelphia ?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? You were uncharacteristically reserved with only five transactions, was there a "trade that got away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which clubs are your biggest rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Brent , and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows
Saturday, June 16, 2007
ECHL Scout: With 12 games remaining for most team's, it's going to a tuff race for a lot of teams. This is what I have come to understand and not all will be correct, but I am sure those teams will/will not make the playoffs. East Conference
Tampa Bay West Conference
Minnesota The League has declined to comment on predictions. Time will tell how accurate the Scout really is. One thing that seems somewhat strange is why the Scout would sent in a picture Pierre McGuire. But then the actions of the Scout have been far from normal all season.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Reporting from Ottawa, Ontario from the Scotiabank Place GM Questions
Reporter: How are you today, Gary? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for Ottawa?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? Was there a "trade that got away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated?
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite childhood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Gary, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next week's interview with who knows! Thursday, June 7, 2007
Reporting from Uniondale, New York from the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum GM Questions
Reporter: How are you today, Ryan? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for the Islanders?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise(s) this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Paul (Buffalo GM) and I are in a wizard metal band, look for our first single, The Battle of Goborg, in sidewalk sales 10 years from now. I would totally take a mustache ride from Yanni, but sadly, he has yet to offer. I can't skate.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Reporting from East Rutherford, New Jersey from the Continental Airlines Arena. GM Questions
Reporter: How are you today Chris? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for New Jersey?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? You were uncharacteristically reserved with only five transactions, was there a "trade that got away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which clubs are your biggest rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? So - thx to everyone - it's a blast.
Reporter: Have you been in the room when Anaheim's GM has done his pantless trading? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Chris, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows!
Monday, May 21, 2007
Reporting from Nashville, Tennessee from the Sommet Center. GM Questions
Reporter:How are you today, Evan? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: Going into the home stretch what are your expectations for Nashville?
Reporter: Had you hoped to do more at the deadline? You were uncharacteristically reserved with only five transactions, was there a "trade that got
away"?
Reporter: Pick the final four for the Cup this year.
Reporter: You've obviously made a lot of deals this year - which was your best, and which one do you regret the most?
Reporter: Which clubs are your biggest rivals?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you?
Reporter: If you had to a) fight a white tiger with your bare hands, or b) stop trading for a year, which would you pick?
Reporter: If you had to a) not drink any alcohol for a year, or b) stop trading for a year, which would you pick?
Reporter: Have you been in the room when Anaheim's GM has done his pantless trading? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Evan, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows!
Monday, May 13, 2007
Reporting from Saint Paul, Minnesota from the Xcel Energy Center. GM Questions
Reporter:How are you today, Bill? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Minnesota?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Minnesota, Is it time for a change or is your team set? I have made some considerable improvements to the supporting cast around this core. First, I managed to get rid of that senior citizen Pierre Turgeon and his monstrous contract. In return, I was able to build up a few solid prospects. Those prospects came in handy as trade bait as recently I was able to land Petr Sykora to fill our void at the RW position. Petr has fit in nicely on our 1st line putting up a point per game since his arrival. Next, I decided to build up some secondary defense. Not that our team was in desperate need of defense (lowest GA in the league by a substantial margin) but I felt it would be necessary for a playoff push. I was able to land Jay Bouwmeester who is one of the top defensive prospects in the league. We are very excited about his arrival in Minnesota. In addtion to Jay, we have also added Andrei Markov to our blue line. Andrei is a great all-around defensemen who should quarterback our 2nd powerplay unit with ease. New to our team is also Marcel Hossa. A young, offensively talented rookie who has a great upside and we will expect big things from him in years to come. For now, he will be holding down the duties as our 2nd line RW and on our 2nd powerplay unit. Saying goodbye to players is always very difficult, as was the case in letting go Hannu Toivonen, Colby Armstrong, and Brian Gifford. These 3 rookies were tearing it up for us this season and it was a very difficult decision to let them go to Anaheim. Having said that, we are happy with the players we got in exchange and they should be key to our playoff run.
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Bill, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with who knows!
Monday, May 7, 2007
Reporting from Los Angeles, California from the Staples Center. GM Questions
Reporter:How are you today, Dustin? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Los Angeles?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Los Angeles, Is it time for a change or is your team set?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Dustin, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with the GM of the Minnesota Wild, Bill Read.
Friday, May 4, 2007
Reporting from Sunrise, Florida from BankAtlantic Center. GM Questions
Reporter:How are you today, Andre? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Florida?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Florida, Is it time for a change or is your team set?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Andre, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with the GM of the Los Angeles Kings, Dustin Johnstone.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Forward: Radek Bonk, Edmonton. The Oilers are clearly in a rebuilding phase, but Bonk has been steady in offensive production. Replacing Jan Hrdina as the team's top scorer, Bonk also boasts a respectful +7. One of the Oilers' leaders. Defenseman: Roman Hamrlik, NY Islanders. Hamrlik has been outstanding, with a +18. The Islanders are on the prowl, and Hamrlik will be invaluable when the playoffs come. Goaltender: Olaf Kolzig, New Jersey. The Devils lead their division, and that is in large part to Kolzig's outstanding play. A steady netminder who gives his team a chance to win every night, Kolzig is one of those players the Devils would severely miss if he were traded or injured. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Reporting from Edmonton, Alberta from Rexall Place. GM Questions
Reporter:How are you today Ian? Reporter: Alright lets get this interview started!
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Edmonton?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Edmonton, Is it time for a change or is your team set?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Jordan, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with the GM of the Florida Panthers, Andre Drouillard.
Monday, April 23, 2007 Another Disappointing Start Brings Fresh Blood to Montreal A failing team on the brink of both the salary cap and bankruptcy was too much to take for the Montreal Canadiens today, announcing GM Paul Biggin would no longer be continuing with the team that just couldn't seem to find a way to compete in the star-studded NorthEast Division. The team was quick to announce a replacement, freshman GM Dave Mcgarva, a former marketing executive within the insurance and financial services industries. Perhaps a man of few words Mcgarva spoke only a few words at the announcement of his hiring, eloquently responding to a question regarding the new direction of the Habs by stating: "Going to have to crack some skulls, get this team into top shape." Mcgarva will lead Montreal into Minnesota for a battle with the Wild on Wednesday.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Reporting from Dallas, Texas from the American Airlines Center GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Dallas?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Dallas, Is it time for a change or is your team set?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Jordan, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with the GM of the Detroit "One-Line Wonder" Red Wings, Peter Lacasse.
Monday, April 23, 2007 Another Disappointing Start Brings Fresh Blood to Montreal A failing team on the brink of both the salary cap and bankruptcy was too much to take for the Montreal Canadiens today, announcing GM Paul Biggin would no longer be continuing with the team that just couldn't seem to find a way to compete in the star-studded NorthEast Division. The team was quick to announce a replacement, freshman GM Dave Mcgarva, a former marketing executive within the insurance and financial services industries. Perhaps a man of few words Mcgarva spoke only a few words at the announcement of his hiring, eloquently responding to a question regarding the new direction of the Habs by stating: "Going to have to crack some skulls, get this team into top shape." Mcgarva will lead Montreal into Minnesota for a battle with the Wild on Wednesday.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Reporting from Columbus, Ohio from the Nationwide Arena GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Columbus?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: We haven't seen a big trade yet from Columbus, Is it time for a change or is your team set?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Doug, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next weeks interview with the GM of the Dallas Stars, Jordan Carter.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Forward: Tuomo Ruutu, Buffalo. The Sabres needed some bright spots early in the season, and Ruutu added his shine to the mix. A solid rookie with soft soft hands, Ruutu has had a sensational season. Defenseman: Dion Phaneuf, Dallas. Let's be honest here; the Stars have been ghastly this season. Phaneuf gives the Dallas franchise hope for the future. A rock solid defenseman in his rookie season, Phaneuf should entertain the Dallas fans for seasons to come. Goaltender: Henrik Lundqvist, Philadelphia. The Flyers have been in a rebuilding mode this season, and Lundqvist has helped stopped some of the bleeding. Despite a losing record, the Flyers would be in a lot worse condition without this stand-out goalie performing night after night. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 ECHL Head Office Confirms and Establishes Trade Rules After a controversial all-star week that saw one club attempt moving 22 players and another team trade the same player three times to two clubs the office of the ECHL Commissioner felt it necessary to issue a matter-of-fact press release today. The release noted that one important new rule will state once a trade is e-mailed to the Commissioner's office it will be taken as a deal at the discretion of the Commissioner, essentially removing a GMs ability to retract a deal effective immediately. "It's unfortunate we must move towards a 'kid gloves' method of management but situations like last week have left us with no choice," noted co-Commissioner Rick Jessup. "Our time is valuable and we certainly don't need the headaches associated with indecisive GMs who don't think their decisions through." He was also sure to reiterate that no trades that would place a club over the salary cap would be processed, regardless of how fair they are; that teams are responsible for getting below the cap before attempting a trade to take on salary. In a final clarification Jessup responded to accusations of an itchy 'decline' finger in some deals, noting that inexperienced GMs in the past have left him with no choice. "Look at teams like Dallas, Los Angeles, Edmonton, Anaheim, and Colorado - previous GMs have driven these teams into the ground by being given free reign to trade as they saw fit. Three prospects and a 1st round draft pick is not fair value for a second line winger by any stretch of the imagination. Do we really need more deals like last season's trade deadline swap that drove a knife into Colorado and twisted it around awhile? I don't think so. Am I too strict? It's possible, but with almost a third of the league still unable to stay on track financially I don't see how we have any choice." He then noted complaints would continue to be welcomed and responded to with an appropriate level of sarcasm and eloquence. Monday, April 16, 2007
Reporting from Denver, Colorado from KP's DogHouse Arena (formerly the Pepsi Center). GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Colorado?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: That was a big move getting rid of Todd Bertuzzi and Craig Conroy; why did you get rid of them and how do you think the newcomers Alexander
Mogilny and Chris Osgood will do on your team?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you?
Reporter: Thanks for your time, KP, and good luck in the rest of the season.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Forward: Todd Bertuzzi, Detroit. Bertuzzi has been simply phenomenal this season, doing all that was asked of him. Not much can be said except that he makes the Red Wings that much more dangerous. Defenseman: Ladislov Smid, St. Louis. Smid has been solid for the Blues. A solid plus/minus and some offensive flair has Blues fans taking notice. A gem in the making. Goaltender: Chris Osgood, Colorado. The Avalanche had a hard time deciding on a starting goaltender until they acquired Osgood. Hung out to dry more often that not, Osgood has risen to the occasion and gives Colorado a chance every night to win. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Monday, April 2, 2007
Forward: Brian Rolston, New York Rangers. A stalwart of consistency, Rolston has shown up every game. The Rangers rely on his leadership and grit to lead them night after night. Defenseman: Kyle Klubertanz, Los Angeles. A rookie has some adjustment periods, a rookie defenseman has his work cut out for him on a regular basis. Klubertanz has played with a maturity above his years for the Kings, as his point production and plus/minus attest. A model defenseman for others to model their play after. Goaltender: Martin Biron, Nashville. Despite playing in the revolving door that is Nashville, Biron has done his part keeping the Predators in the hunt for first in the West, and first overall in the league. A tremendous talent, the Predators would do well to keep this guy as a mentor to the young goalies in their system. (Editor's Note: AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! Check the Trades page..) The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Reporting from Calgary, Alberta from the Pengrowth Saddledome. GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Calgary?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: That was a big move getting rid of Patrice Bergeron, Alexander Mogilny, Nikolai Zherdev, Jordan Leopold, and Mattias Weinhandl; why did you
get rid of them and how do you think the newcomers Wojtek Wolski, Daniel Briere, Joffrey Lupul, and Marc-Andre Bergeron will do on your team?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Kevin, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next week's interview with Eric Aaviku, GM of the Carolina Hurricanes. Sunday, March 25, 2007
Forward: Andrew Ladd, Montreal. This player has been a lynch pin for the Habs' offense. Montreal has been middle of the pack, but Ladd has kept his team above water with his feats. The Canadiens are in the hunt because of Ladd. Defenseman: Tomas Kaberle, Chicago. Fabulous on the blueline for the Blackhawks, Kaberle anchors his team defensively and knows when to chip in the offense. A defenseman any team would thrive with. Goaltender: David Aebischer, Atlanta. The Thrashers have been hit or miss all season, but Aebischer has given his team a chance in almost every game to win. With apologies to Nicklas Lidstrom, Atlanta's smartest move to date has been trading for Aebischer in the off-season. Without Aebischer, the playoffs would be a dream. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Reporting from Buffalo, New York at the HSBC Arena. GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Buffalo?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: That was a big move getting rid of Olli Jokinen, Kirk Maltby & Pierre Dagenais; why did you get rid of them and how do you think the
newcomers Craig Conroy, Magnus Arvedson & Anver Lisin will do on your team?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Paul, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next week's interview with Kevin Wilde, GM of the Calgary Flames. Tuesday, March 20, 2007 Isles Re-Acquire Yanni After Greek Sexpot Refuses Boston Courtesy of the Long Island Newsday, Reprinted with Permission
In the period of one day two offers came in for Yanni, one from Atlanta and one from Tampa Bay. Atlanta was interested in having Yanni coach their farm team, the Minnesota North Stars. When discussed with Yanni, he said "The people in Boston are ugly, no good people to come to my sexy parties and dance, forget Minnesota, those people are downright ghoulish," which ended that conversation. The offer from Tampa Bay was to have Yanni coach the Lightning, which would have been a large promotion for him, moving up from Assistant Coach, but he turned it down citing his refusal to leave Rocco. Interestingly enough, Tampa Bay GM, Mark Maranzan, graciously offered Yanni to stay at his house until he could find more permanent residence to have his sexy parties. Monday, March 19, 2007 Yanni Trade Shocks League, Yanni Courtesy of the Boston Herald, Reprinted with Permission
Bruins GM Jessup was unphased, but hoping he could talk Yanni into the trip. "Boston is a great town with great beer, a culture of professional sports, and fiberglass moose everywhere you look!" he noted. When confronted with Yanni's comments his mood soured as he spat "I didn't release my frozen Michael Bolton to let some man-pony lie on a shag rug in the armpit of Long Island. Yanni will be a Bruin. I hope. I'm keeping the Twister game either way. But he'd better come soon or I'll trade him to Nashville for Michael Ryder." When informed Ryder had already been traded he raised an eyebrow and left in disgust. Sunday, March 18, 2007
Forward: Michael Ryder, Phoenix. Ryder proved to have a busy week, being traded for the second time in his career, then having a stellar game against San Jose. Ryder is a keeper wherever he goes. Defenseman: Dick Tarnstrom, Pittsburgh. Tarnstrom has shown his abilities on a team not quite playing up to the standard they could. Pittsburgh would be a lot worse off if Tarnstrom wasn't on their roster. Goaltender: Marty Turco, Minnesota. The Wild have been a very solid team this year, and this starts from the goal out. Turco gives his Wild a chance to win every night. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Monday, March 12, 2007 Avalanche GM, Players Speak Out Courtesy of the Denver Post, Reprinted with Permission
"Did you see those 2 goals that [expletive] [goalie Rick DiPietro] let in from centre ice?!? And he let my least favourite player [expletive] Lindros score?! I was NOT pleased with that performance," GM Wee told the reporters gathered near the visitors' dressing room at the Pond in Anaheim. Asked what his solution was for the goaltending situation, Wee shot back, "This is Rick's last game in this jersey after this stinky performance. I actually liked Ozzy's (opposing goalie Chris Osgood) play a lot and throughout this game I think I fell in love with his puckstopping ability. All right, interview's over. I gotta go find what's-his-name...that guy with no pants... that Anaheim GM (Mathew Fedunchuk)... before he leaves the damn building. What's his name again? You guys know who I'm talking about, right? That GM with no pants? I'm gonna get Ozzy from his team to lead us to the promised land." Asked if he was concerned about Osgood's pending free-agency, Wee glared at that reporter and said, "How long you been in this business, son? What do YOU know about hockey?" And with that, there was hush from all the media members - as they've come to realize Wee's temper is as bad, if not worse, than Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, who is known to trade everybody or fire his staff when they lose. "What's he doing?" was a response from a player in the Colorado locker room who requested to remain anonymous when told of the tirade by Wee. "I tell ya, our GM is messing up the team chemistry with these kind of impulsive moves. I wish I was gonna be traded too." "Yeah, I wonder how long he's been in the hockey business, period," said another player in the corner. "I think we are tired of this GM." "Oh...give me a break.... When our GM starts dealing with a guy (Anaheim GM) that doesn't even wear pants, that tells you all you need to know about our GM, and I don't care if he knows I said this. There, go write my name and print that," was a comment by Brendan Shanahan, who was one of the bright spots in the loss, tallying his 7th goal. "And I saw on the Zonk last weekend that he hated me... so my question is why did he acquire me in the first place?" The Avalanche had been improving, going 5-4-1 in their last 10 until this recent 3-game slide. But will things go south due to this so-called mess of team chemistry and bad blood between players and the GM? Only time will tell. While GM Wee has always been outspoken, it is clear now that his players are no longer on his side, and no longer join in in his tirades directed at other teams. As for their performance on the ice, we will find out when Chris Osgood makes his Colorado debut (assuming the trade is for real) in three days at home, against division-rival Calgary. "Those guys better play hard," was Wee's one last comment. "I want revenge on those Flames for what happened the other night (Colorado's 5-1 embarrassment a day earlier). They should be fired up for being embarrassed for that one. I don't want to start trading everyone, but I may have to, to get rid of some stinkers and losers on this team." Colorado was outscored a combined 24-3 a night earlier, by both the big league and minor league club.
The Sleeping Thrashers Have Come To Life Courtesy of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Reprinted with Permission
"Every night it's a different hero," coach Karl Aalders said after the Pittsburgh game. "Scotty's been on fire. Petr's maybe not used as much as some forwards, but he's been outstanding. Abby's stood tall in goal. We're all clicking at the same time, and it's fun to be a part of." "Everyone had us written off," captain Mario Lemieux said. "Let's face it, we never did much to earn a lot of respect until recently. We were awful. But we're gelling. David is in such a zone and not much is getting by him. He's giving us that chance to win every night. Our defense is finally getting together. We're playing as a team. We're just having fun and riding the wave." The Thrashers also announced the hiring of Laura Albrecht as assistant general manager. It was a move made necessary by the busy every day activity in any pro franchise front office. "Every GM has an assistant," GM Justin Halbersma said. "Laura came highly recommended. She played a role in helping move Yanic Perreault to a team that could use his abilities and get us a solid young prospect in return. She's also giving her expertise in other trades and financial decisions. It's a move that can only help our franchise and potentially point her in the direction of GM one day in the future." Albrecht was approached after the Pittsburgh game, a few hours after her hiring was announced. "I think we did pretty good out there," she commented. "I mean we were really working together as a team and we just had to give it our all and try our best, and in the end it all paid off. We're on a three game win streak. I'm looking forward to working with Justin and Karl and the players. The ECHL offers an exciting arena to get my skills up to par in the pro level." "From now on, there will be a two-headed approach to trades...both of us will be making the decisions," Halbersma added. Good times lie ahead for the Thrashers. The gloom that was in the dressing room has lifted for the moment. The winning streak has quieted some trade rumors surrounding David Aebischer. "No way," Albrecht said firmly, when she and Halbersma were asked about his trade availability. "He's our saving ace right now. He maybe struggled earlier, but he's been awesome the last three games. Of all the players that are available, David is not one of them, and neither is Ward. Those two will form our goaltending core for seasons to come. To all other GMs and their assistants...don't bother asking for our goalies. Unless they suffer a core meltdown, they are not headed anywhere." "Why trade the backbone of our team?" Halbersma said simply. "It would be suicidal to our team." The Thrashers have clawed back into playoff contention on grit and determination. The rest of the ECHL...take note.
Monday, March 12, 2007 Courtesy of the Nashville Tennessean, Reprinted with Permission and Apologies The Story on Evan Carter's Week Its been a whirlwind week for the Almighty Preds. Who have lost quite a bit lately! Sadly one loss was to the worst team In Echl history… Dallas. Gm Evan Carter has decided to take Immediate action. So he goes and Ponders in his thinking chair. After an hour has gone by not much Thinking has been done. As for the Gm of Nashville got so wasted he traded Away one of his best Defenseman Rookies to get Mike Rathje! He immediately the next morning after passing out for the night went down to the Gaylord entertainment centre. He showed his unwanted anger to The team’s head coach Billy…. And Fired him on the Scene. Immediately Evan thought of a brilliant idea. He must hire an Assistant gm to help him cope with the team instead of anger. After minutes upon minutes of searching for the perfect Candidate Their he was. Drunk as can be Evan asked him if he would fill in the position… All he heard back was… WHAT!!! So Evan repeated himself, and again…WHAT!!!. So getting a little annoyed Evan said it one last time and finally he got a YEEEAAAAHHH!!! So it was destiny. He got 1 half of his problems solved by Hiring… LIL JOHN. So all he needed was a new Head Coach. A Coach that doesn’t just focus on Scoring. But a coach that divides his focus Evenly on Strength, Verbal Abuse, Scoring, Defensive, and Goaltending skills… But also when in a Game where we need to eliminate the team, Brutality! So lil John Called up his buddy and He immediately agreed. And has signed a no trade Claus and no fire Claus 1 one year contract with the Predators. He Hired Mike Tyson!!! Tyson Spoke to the media yesterday and had this to say. The Nashville predators are a bunch of g-d d--n sissy’s. I am going to take them all to a gym and make them workout 24/7. If their not playing hockey they are working out. And Every day I am going to single one of them out and kick their $%# to toughen them up. They are going to be a brutal team. They are going to change. We will Continue being a scoring threat but make sure our defence starts being dominate. We got guys who can make an impact and I am going to make sure we make an impact. There have also been rumours about Martin Biron being traded already well that is not true. Expect him to be a Predator for a while. One Rumour that is true that Defenseman Mike Rathje is on the trading block. Evan and Lil John were to hammered to speak. Unknown sources say they were at la gm’s house stealing all his beer while la gm took Steve ott out for lunch together discussing his trade value.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Reporting from Boston, Massachusetts at the TD Banknorth Garden. GM Questions
Reporter: What outcome do you expect for your team this year and are we going to see a big trade from Boston?
Reporter: Which club(s) are your rivals?
Reporter: That was a big move getting rid of Kimmo Timonen & Daniel Briere; why did you get rid of them and how do you think the newcomers Derian
Hatcher & Steve Rucchin will do on your team?
Reporter: How many years/months have you been in this league? Where do you think your club will be in the next 2-5 years?
Reporter: Who do you believe is or is going to be your franchise player?
Reporter: Do you think you are a Cup contender? If so, why? If not, what will make you become a contender?
Reporter: Do you think your team will make the playoffs? If yes, how well do you think they will do, and if not, why?
Reporter: Which team(s) do you think are the most underrated and overrated.
Reporter: Who has/have been the biggest surprise this year on your team? Other Questions
Reporter: Who was your favourite child hood team?
Reporter: Who is your favourite goaltender?
Reporter: Who is your favourite defenceman?
Reporter: Who is your favourite forward.
Reporter: What is one thing other GMs don't know about you? Reporter: Thanks for your time, Rick, and good luck in the rest of the season. Be sure to tune into next week's interview with Paul Maranzan, GM of the Buffalo Sabres. Monday, March 12, 2007
Forward: Jason Spezza, Calgary Flames. Another rookie makes the list. Spezza is a player that would be valued on every team, and Calgary would have a hard time of it without him. Defenseman: Boris Mironov, Washington Capitals. A solid presence on the blue line, he contributes more than just points. A great plus/minus on the blueline is where his value is mostly shown. Goaltender: Marc Denis, Boston Bruins. The Bruins started slowly this season, but as Denis goes, so go the Bruins. One would definitely say with confidence the Bruins would not have turned their season around without Denis' heroics. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Monday, March 12, 2007 Courtesy of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Reprinted with Permission Thrashers on the Rise The Atlanta Thrashers have been an enigma in this ECHL season. If one were to graph their progress, the line would have more ups and downs than a yo-yo. The Thrashers have a habit of winning several hard-fought games in a row, then plummeting in losing streaks that leave them out of contention. So few knew what to expect when Atlanta breezed into Nashville to take on the Predators. Expecting the worst, the ECHL was forced to take notice when the Thrashers served the Predators a 3-2 loss. "It may not be the Stanley Cup, but it's a big win," Thrashers captain Mario Lemieux said. "It's nice to see the third and fourth line contribute. Mark and Yanic have been having hard times in recent games, and it's nice to see them factor in the win." Mark Recchi, Yanic Perreault, and Andy Delmore all tallied for the Thrashers. Michael Ryder and Steve Sullivan replied for the Predators. Atlanta netminder David Aebischer was phenomenal in the Thrasher goal, stopping 31 shots. Rookie of the Year goalie Jeff Glass wasn't as sharp, being tagged with the loss, but still turned in 20 saves in a losing cause. "With all the trade talk surrounding Abby, it's nice to see him still be at the top of his game," GM Justin Halbersma remarked. "Nashville has the firepower to be dangerous. You need your goalie to steal one, and that's what he did." The mood around the Thrashers camp is one of uncertainty, as trade rumors continue to fly. Halbersma insists they are just that at this point. "When a trade is made, you guys will be the first to know," he said crisply, brushing aside questions that revolved around trades. "The press has made more trades than the actual ECHL. Right now, everything is speculation. I will not join that speculation. When a deal is finalized, then I can and will tell you." The Thrashers took a big game from a strong opponent. Is this the turning point? Time will tell.
Monday, March 12, 2007 Courtesy of the Nashville Tennessean, Reprinted with Permission and Apologies The Story on Evan Carter's Week Its been a whirlwind week for the Almighty Preds. Who have lost quite a bit lately! Sadly one loss was to the worst team In Echl history… Dallas. Gm Evan Carter has decided to take Immediate action. So he goes and Ponders in his thinking chair. After an hour has gone by not much Thinking has been done. As for the Gm of Nashville got so wasted he traded Away one of his best Defenseman Rookies to get Mike Rathje! He immediately the next morning after passing out for the night went down to the Gaylord entertainment centre. He showed his unwanted anger to The team’s head coach Billy…. And Fired him on the Scene. Immediately Evan thought of a brilliant idea. He must hire an Assistant gm to help him cope with the team instead of anger. After minutes upon minutes of searching for the perfect Candidate Their he was. Drunk as can be Evan asked him if he would fill in the position… All he heard back was… WHAT!!! So Evan repeated himself, and again…WHAT!!!. So getting a little annoyed Evan said it one last time and finally he got a YEEEAAAAHHH!!! So it was destiny. He got 1 half of his problems solved by Hiring… LIL JOHN. So all he needed was a new Head Coach. A Coach that doesn’t just focus on Scoring. But a coach that divides his focus Evenly on Strength, Verbal Abuse, Scoring, Defensive, and Goaltending skills… But also when in a Game where we need to eliminate the team, Brutality! So lil John Called up his buddy and He immediately agreed. And has signed a no trade Claus and no fire Claus 1 one year contract with the Predators. He Hired Mike Tyson!!! Tyson Spoke to the media yesterday and had this to say. The Nashville predators are a bunch of g-d d--n sissy’s. I am going to take them all to a gym and make them workout 24/7. If their not playing hockey they are working out. And Every day I am going to single one of them out and kick their $%# to toughen them up. They are going to be a brutal team. They are going to change. We will Continue being a scoring threat but make sure our defence starts being dominate. We got guys who can make an impact and I am going to make sure we make an impact. There have also been rumours about Martin Biron being traded already well that is not true. Expect him to be a Predator for a while. One Rumour that is true that Defenseman Mike Rathje is on the trading block. Evan and Lil John were to hammered to speak. Unknown sources say they were at la gm’s house stealing all his beer while la gm took Steve ott out for lunch together discussing his trade value.
Monday, March 5, 2007
Goaltender: Roberto Luongo, San Jose Sharks. Let's face it, Luongo has been outstanding for the Sharks. They would not be contending like they are without Luongo's heroics. Defenseman: Cory Cross, Toronto Maple Leafs. His plus/minus shows us why he's valuable. A steadying force on the blue line. Forward: Wojtek Wolski, Ottawa Senators. His point totals have been impressive for a rookie, and one has to wonder if Ottawa would sink if he were removed from the lineup. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Click here to read Atlanta's interview
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Team: Anaheim Ducks Click here to read Anaheim's interview
Monday, February 26, 2007
Goaltender: Mikka Kiprusoff, Columbus Blue Jackets. Kipper proved his worth when he returned from injury. Kipper is a big part of the Blue Jackets' surge up the standings. Defenseman: Chris Campoli, Carolina Hurricanes. Campoli is showing his poise as a rookie, notching 11 points and standing a +8. All this, and just a rookie to boot! Forward: Randy Robitaille, Vancouver Canucks. Robitaille is a gritty forward, the type of forward any team would love to have in the tight games. He's shown his usefulness on the defensive side of things. The "Hammy's Choice" awards are not for the best scorer, the top-name goaltender, or the best known defender. It is an award given out to the players who would mean a lot to their teams if they weren't there. Yes, sometimes big-name players will be chosen. But don't expect the scoring leader to be a regular on this list. I am also going to try to not repeat teams until the 30 teams have been cycled through. - provided by Justin Halbersma, Atlanta GM
Friday, February 23, 2007 The Edmonton Oilers and Minnesota Wild wasted no time in announcing the successors to their vacant GM slots, both naming replacements today in separate press releases. The Oil announced their second GM of the 2006/07 season will be former amateur player and announcer Ian Cunningham. The Wild countered by signing property mogul Bill Read to helm their team in the midst of a six-game winning streak that has taken them back to contention. Both managers will take to their new chairs Saturday.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007 It was a case of odd timing in Minnesota today when ownership of the Wild released a brief and terse statement to announce the termination of the only GM the team has ever known, George Diamantakos. After a rough start for the Wild it had almost been expected, but after turning out five straight wins the media and fans in Minnesota had pulled back on their criticism of the wary-to-deal GM. Diamantakos was unavailable for comment with the ownership group simply announcing a replacement would be announced "soon". The surprises weren't over yet after freshman Edmonton Oilers' GM Phillip Boyd made the decision to step down following some early success for his team, citing only workload as his reasoning. The shocked Oilers brass also announced only that the process of finding a replacement would be quick with many names on their shortlist from the Boyd hiring this past off-season.
Weekly Power Rankings
Friday, February 16, 2007 The office of the ECHL is sad to announce the passing of Atlanta GM Justin Halbersma's cousin, Sarah Alders. This 16-year-old honor student and local goaltender was tragically struck by a car on Wednesday and lost her battle Friday morning. "To all the GMs, if I don't respond as quickly as normal to emails, this is why," Halbersma said in a statement to the league. "Now I have a lot to take care of on a personal level. She thought the ECHL was the greatest thing in the world, and she was always asking how my team was doing. As a person, apart from hockey, she was simple a great girl. We were close. She will be missed." Friday, February 16, 2007 The hottest team in the ECHL isn't the Leafs, Predators, Sharks, or Lightning; it's the previously left-for-dead Boston Bruins, boasting points in eight of their last 10 games. Unfortunately for fans of the typically trade-silent team it has come at a cost with stalwart season-one stars Daniel Briere and Kimmo Timonen leaving earlier this week and fan-favourite Simon Gagne being informed he had been traded shortly after his star-worthy performance in a victory over the Blues tonight. GM/Coach Rick Jessup was sad but optimistic when approached for comment: "The Bruins family is a tight one and we don't trade players like commodities. Unfortunately in our earlier struggles it became apparent we needed to get bigger and we needed someone to finish those passes on offensive runs. The additions of Steve Rucchin and Derian Hatcher boosted our size significantly, and they've made Boston an imposing team to face off against." The decision to send Simon Gagne to Columbus for Brad Richards was possibly the most difficult decision Jessup said he'd ever made, but noting that it was the best move for both teams. "The fans love Simon, his teammates love Simon, but brash moves require tough decisions. Brad brings us a scoring touch we've sorely lacked on the left side along with some more size and some added leadership we know will advance our kids as the season wears on," Jessup noted. "We know as much as Brad will offer us that Simon is likely just the spark Doug's team needs to bring them back to contention." The new-look Bruins chase their fifth straight win Friday when Briere, Timonen, and the Senators make their return to Boston.
THIS WEEK IN THE ECHL
In Detroit, Peter Lacasse was forced to eat his words this week as he continued the rebuilding process. The new look Red Wings made sure Colin White's stay in Rock City was a short one as he was shipped out in favour of rookie blueliner Marek Zidlicky. Lacasse has now imposed a trade ban on himself as he hopes to make a cup run again this season. The added young blood along with a completely revamped roster will hopefuly provide the missing piece to the puzzle as Lacasse looks to vanquish last season’s playoff failure. Time will tell if these moves will payoff or if once again Lacasse will break his promise of no more moves.
Weekly Power Rankings
Tuesday, February 6, 2006 On Monday there may not have been much action on the ice, with Buffalo and Boston putting in a less stellar performance in a 1-0 win for the Bruins. The lone goal scored in the first period by an unassisted Blake Wheeler. In the only other game on the day Phoenix battled Ottawa to a 2-2 tie.
In Detroit, last seasons Jack Adams Award winner had only one thing to say about the trade, “That’s it I’m done.” So it appears for now the rebuilding process in Detroit is over. Weekly Power Rankings
Tuesday, January 30, 2006
Sunday, January 28, 2006 Weekly Power Rankings
Sunday, January 28, 2006
Thursday, January 25, 2006 A day that started quietly with the itchy fingers of Atlanta GM Justin Halbersma sending Kyle Wellwood to Washington for a pick ended with a chorus of blasts courtesy of two huge moves that, between then, will find 14 players on planes this evening. The evening started when, hot on the heels of their third victory of the week over the Boston Bruins, the Toronto Maple Leafs fleshed out their forward unit at the expense of long-time star Marian Gaborik. The star winger and teammate Denis Arkhipov, along with a 3rd round pick, will move to Conrad Rosario's Chicago Blackhawks tomorrow night in Montreal. Going the other way were centre Mike Comrie and wingers Peter Bondra, Todd Marchant, and Niklas Sundstrom. But the dealing wasn't done yet when, immediately after his fifth straight loss to open the season, Detroit's Peter Lacasse finally got his team under the cap with a stunning eight-player deal with the Phoenix Coyotes. The Wings will take to the ice with newcomers Colin White, Rhett Warrener, and two of the league's most promising young stars, Alexander Radulov and Mathieu Garon. Heading to Shawn Trumble's Coyotes are the bloated contracts of Jozef Stumpel, Petr Sykora, and Kim Johnsson, as well as Detroit's 16th overall pick in this year's entry draft, goaltending prospect Kari Lehtonen. Johnsson was traded for the second time in three days after arriving from Colorado in the previous blockbuster that had seen Nicklas Lidstrom leave town and Todd Bertuzzi arrive. Tuesday, January 23, 2006 The third night of the young ECHL3 season brought winds of change to former juggernaut Detroit after GM Peter Lacasse, plagued by the salary cap, took to the ice minus top defencemen Nicklas Lidstrom, Dan McGillis, and left winger Brendan Shanahan. The exodus may have completed the moves required to get the Wings under the cap, and saw bruising winger Todd Bertuzzi, prospect winger David Booth, as well as blueliners Kim Johnsson and Eric Cairns suit up for the former President's Trophy winners. Sadly, the changes for the rebuilding Wings resulted in a 4-2 loss to the surging Pittsburg Penguins who, into their third season, remain hopeful for both a place in the playoffs and an H for their city name. Monday, December 4, 2006 Welcome to the new ECHL3 website! Last night marked the first live draft in ECHL history with 11 attendees, one draft floor trade, and a few surprise picks along the way. Regardless of a #11 rank by central scouting the draft saw Sidney Crosby go first, taken by the Philadelphia Flyers where he's expected to play alongside last season's top pick, Alexander Ovechkin. Calgary snagged Nathan Horton second and Columbus rounded out the top three with Eric Staal. The first draft floor trade in ECHL history - and only draft floor trade of the day - saw Atlanta take Boston's #17 overall pick in exchange for defensive prospect Roman Tesliuk and Atlanta's #44 overall pick. Our line of the night goes to Columbus GM Doug Moore:
(Nashville) nashville picks joni pitkanin The results are as follows: Round One
01 Round Two
31 Round Three
61 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||