Fantasy FanHouse

Good News for Pens Fans! Malkin Is Gonna Stick Around For a Long Time

Jes Golbez — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:10:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Penguins, Eastern, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

With the Salary Cap hovering over the Pittsburgh Penguins like a dark cloud over a Sunday picnic (cue dark and evil background muzak), many pundits and fans have wondered if the Penguins will be able to keep the dynamic duo of Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby together for the long-term. Given the Penguins are having to spend big bucks to keep the likes of Ryan Whitney and Marc-Andre Fleury in the fold, can and will the Penguins be able to have enough cap room to keep Malkin while icing a successful club?

It has been widely speculated that Malkin would demand "Ovechkin!!" money, and might price himself out of the Penguins ability to keep him. Would the Pens have to trade Malkin rather than risk losing him on the Restricted Free Agent market to some poacher?

Well, it appears that Pens fans need not worry any longer. Reports from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review and TSN.ca indicate that the Pens and Malkin are close on a new deal which will see Malkin and Crosby stay together for a very long time.

"I'm thinking maybe five or six years," said Malkin, set to enter the final season of his three-year entry-level deal. "I'm an easy guy to deal with. I'd love to stay in Pittsburgh."

Malkin told the newspaper he does not need to exceed the $8.7 million salary of captain Sidney Crosby but sources tell TSN the likely target for Malkin is a five-year deal worth more than $9 million per season.

Obviously, this bodes well for both the Penguins and the league. Having THE dynamic duo together and maintaining a popular 'dynasty' (for lack of a better term) will provide the fans with a must-see team for many years, and give the league a team that it can promote. As great as the Wings are, their style of play, and their quiet superstars, just aren't as marketable as the Golden Boys.

Part of me worries that the Pens could end up like the Tampa Bay Lightning: Stacked with a few highly-paid superstars and a whole bunch of chaff. On the other hand, the Pens have a much better farm system, plenty more quality depth, and a salary cap that continues to rise. The future is bright.

Good News for Pens Fans! Malkin Is Gonna Stick Around For a Long Time originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chris Simon Signs ... In Russia?

Jes Golbez — Mon, 19 May 2008 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

When you think of what it would take to play in the Russian Super league, if you ever do, what do you think of?

You probably consider skill, speed, puck-handling, and smarts as essential elements needed to play in one of the world's best hockey leagues.

Chris Simon possesses none of these skills, which makes him signing with a Russian Super league team very strange, indeed.

Chris Simon's tumultuous National Hockey League career may have officially come to an end on Saturday when he signed a contract with Vityaz Chekhov of the Continental Hockey League in Russia, according to Russian media reports.

Simon, who has been suspended twice by the NHL in the past 15 months for a total of 55 games, finished the 2007-08 season with the Minnesota Wild. He scored one goal and added two assists in 38 NHL games split between the Wild and New York Islanders last season.

Fighting is not allowed in European leagues, which already negates Simon's #1 skill. With Simon's lack of foot-speed, you know he'll end up taking a lot of dumb fouls, which he's very good at, and hurt his team with many penalties to kill.

I know the Russian Super league loves to sign ex-NHLers, but why sign a 36-year old thug who has just 52 points in his last 177 games?

Well, at least we know the NHL will be thrilled to have the guy out of their hair.

Chris Simon Signs ... In Russia? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 19 May 2008 11:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Deadline Day: Are Big Deals Worth the Cost?

Jes Golbez — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:10:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Eastern, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

As I grow older and more mature (stop snickering), I'm beginning to see the folly of a team, on Deadline Day, spending major assets for a playoff rental. Yes, D-Day is always hyped to the max, and gets fans drooling at the prospect of seeing their team get the likes of Marian Hossa, Peter Forsberg, or Mats Sundin to put their team over the top.

Like Tom Benjamin notes over at his blog, rarely does spending the farm on a short-term rental ever really help a team do big things. Last season, we saw the Isles give up lots for Ryan Smyth and the Thrashers do the same for Keith Tkachuk. Both teams fell flat on their asses in the first round, although some would argue that just getting the teams into the playoffs, and one round of lucrative playoff revenue, was the justification for screwing the team's future.

Think of building a house. A good house takes time to plan, and the foundation is laid early in the design choices one makes. You can't simply stick some Sears Aluminum siding on the outside of a stucco monstrosity and expect it to turn into a million-dollar mansion, can you?

Looking back at the eventual Stanley Cup winning teams reveals a noticeable trend: The great teams don't need to do much at the deadline. Great terms are built during the off-season, or earlier in the season, rather than February and March.

2007 - Anaheim: Anaheim obtains F Brad May from Colorado for G Michael Wall, obtains D Doug O'Brien from Tampa Bay for D Joe Rullier. Dealing for a 4th line thug was hardly making waves, but the Ducks already had a great team, and Burke just wanted some toughness.

2006 - Carolina: Carolina obtains veteran RW Mark Recchi from Pittsburgh for LW Niklas Nordgren, C Krys Kolanos and Carolina's second-round choice in 2007. One of the few big deals made by a deadline team, Recchi was more icing on the cake, and spent most of his time on the third line with Doug Weight.

2004 - Tampa Bay: Nothing of note. Their big late-season deal occurred on January 27th, when they acquired Daryl Sydor for a draft pick. This was 40 days before the deadline.

2003 - New Jersey: New Jersey acquires Atlanta defenseman Richard Smehlik, but he plays only five games. A black ace, nothing more.

2002 - Detroit: Detroit was quiet during the season. Its best move is trading for Buffalo goalie Dominik Hasek in July.

2001 - Colorado: Nothing on deadline day. Their big deal was 20 days prior, acquiring Rob Blake and his big slapshot.

2000 - New Jersey: New Jersey Devils obtain RW Alexander Mogilny from Vancouver for C Brendan Morrison and C Denis Pederson. Finally, a truly big deal on deadline day that helped both teams (although Mogilny got only seven points in 23 playoff games that season). Mogilny helped push the Devils over the top while Morrison became a key cog between the Naslund-Bertuzzi combo. Looking at both sides, it was more than simply a rental deal, and not typical of your average deadline deal.

1999 - Dallas: Dallas reacquires Benoit Hogue a few days before the deadline, but that just adds depth. Their free agent signing of Brett Hull in the summer is the biggest transaction. Again, the Stars were already a fine team, and simply added a Black Ace.

So, I would conclude that any team that spends a vast amount of resources on Deadline Day isn't going to be significantly better than they were 24 hours prior. Hockey is a game that requires a great deal of chemistry, and plopping in a new shiny star player into a new environment is hardly a cure-all panacea. GM's need to avoid the public pressure and do what is best for the club. Sometimes, not making a significant move might be the best option.

Deadline Day: Are Big Deals Worth the Cost? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brad Isbister: Going, Going, Gone?

Jes Golbez — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 17:11:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Canucks, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Ask any coach of his from his checkered past, and you'll likely find out that Brad Isbister is one of the most frustrating players they have ever had the misfortune of coaching.

Blessed with great size (6'4" 222), good balance, and a blistering shot, Isbister has all the physical tools needed to be a successful power forward. It's just too bad that he seems to have none of the mental ones.

The phrase "a million dollar body and a ten cent head" is most appropriate when talking about the guy (although he is kinda pudgy), and one wonders how long he'll remain in the NHL. After the Canucks made him a healthy scratch for the third straight game, especially against a physical team like the San Jose Sharks, it's quite obvious that he isn't part of the team's plans for much longer.

The [line combination] alignment also showed that Brad Isbister has become a non-factor. For the third-straight game and 13th time this season, the winger was a healthy scratch. So, what does the future hold for a 6-foot-4, 225-pound grinder who seldom plays to his imposing size?

To describe Isbister's game, think of a big marshmallow. It's big, white, soft, and just sits there and provides little nutritional value or taste.

Isbister was given a prime opportunity to play a big role with the Canucks, a team in desperate need of both size and offensive output up front. Instead of seizing that opportunity by the throat, Isbister loafed around and put up a pathetic two goals and five assists in 30 games. All the while, Isbister rarely hit anyone, rarely broke a sweat, and spent more time hitting the local sushi buffets than working on his game.

After showing some potential with the Isles in his early days, Isbister has produced just 81 points in 224 games as he's floated between teams and between the AHL and NHL. As Isbister can't really provide much value in any facet of the game, I'd be shocked if another NHL team wants to take a chance on the guy. Good riddance to bad rubbish (I hope!).

Brad Isbister: Going, Going, Gone? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 17:11:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's Official! Flames sign CuJo

Jes Golbez — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:06:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Flames, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Well, the old dog is back! The Calgary Flames, one of about four teams chasing after the old pup, have won the sweepstakes and signed the geezer to a contract. We're still awaiting the actual details, but it's assumed to be a deal simply for this season.

The other scuttlebutt floating around is Mike Keenan made a personal phone call to Joseph and apologized for being such a complete asshat back in their St. Louis days. I didn't think 'Iron' Mike was capable of a sincere apology. How about that?

While CuJo is hardly capable of providing quality goaltending at this stage of his career, he is an instant upgrade on Curtis McElhinney, a no-name backup goalie so awful that Mike Keenan would rather play with an empty net than give a start to the guy.

With Kiprusoff playing so horribly this season, and having started 45 of the 46 Flames' games, it's obvious that the Flames needed somebody that could give Kiprusoff some nights off. "Kipper" looks like a tired goalie and he's been unable to put together a consistent string of good starts.

While Joseph may not have the ability he once did, he'll have the confidence of Iron Mike, which is the most important reason for this signing. Getting Kiprusoff some rest down the stretch may very well help their #1 goalie get his groove back.

It's Official! Flames sign CuJo originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:06:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sunday Slatherings: Sens' Win Costly

Jes Golbez — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 12:55:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Senators, Thrashers, Avalanche, Coyotes, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Last night's tilt between the Red Wings and Senators was exactly as good as the FanHouse hype suggested. We got to see the league's two best teams play the game at the highest level of ability and provide us with a nail-biting thriller. Even those of us with no rooting interest in the game could find a lot of entertainment value in the match, which is the surest mark that the game delivered.

Unfortunately for the Sens, they lost Dany Heatley for the next 4-6 weeks with a separated shoulderr. Win the game, lose the battle of attrition, eh? Here's a quote from the 'What the hell' category.

Heatley left after he fell awkwardly into the boards while checking Detroit's Dallas Drake behind the Senators' net. He did not return. On Saturday, the team said he had an upper body injury and didn't say if he would miss any time.

*sigh* Are teams so afraid of releasing information during the middle of the regular season that they'll resort to this level of secrecy? As for Dallas Drake injuring people ... just like the old days :)

** Remember when Avs' winger Jaroslav Hlinka started the season with a bang, and then went completely in the tank? Well, the former Czech Extraleague scoring champ seems to have finally adjusted to the North American game and has put up nine points in his last 14 games and has developed some nice chemistry with Marek Svatos. With the injuries to Ryan Smyth and Joe Sakic, their production is sorely needed.** Meanwhile, Avs centerman Paul Stastny continues to struggle with the weight of the team on his shoulders. Without Sakic and Smyth to divert attention, Stastny has withered with just five points and an awful -5 in his past 11 games. The Avs need THIS guy to be producing the bulk of the offense, and he's looked a bit too overwhelmed. At this stage, we see that he's still got a few steps to take in his development.

** The Phoenix Coyotes got a bit of a gift when the Chicago Blackhawks basically gave them talented-but-enigmatic sniper Radim Vrbata on a plate with a garnish of beets. Well, the young Czech has piled up an impressive 33 points in 41 games this season, and is probably one of the best fantasy league bargains one could ever find. I know the Hawks have a fairly decent offense this year, but why is a club with a history of losing giving away offensive talent for just about nothing? Makes no sense to me.

** With the trade deadline approaching, many rumors of the Thrashers ready to shop Marian Hossa are floating about. Now, as talented as Hossa is, does he strike you as the type of player you want to spend heavily on as a playoff rental? Remember last season, when he wilted with just a single point and a -6 in 4 games? Or 03-04 with just four points in seven games? Buyer beware, fo' shizzle.

Sunday Slatherings: Sens' Win Costly originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 13 Jan 2008 12:55:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Curtis Joseph, Wanted Man?

Jes Golbez — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 18:09:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Flames, Sharks, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

With his recent play at the does-anyone-watch-this? Spengler Cup over in Davos, Switzerland, veteran goalie Curtis Joseph is suddenly resurfacing in rumors about a few NHL teams being interested in his services. Joseph wanted to use the Spengler Cup as a springboard back to the NHL, and it may just work.

According to reports from TSN, 40 year old goaltender Curtis Joseph will likely make his decision this weekend on where he'd like to be when he rejoins the NHL.

It's come down to two teams: Calgary and San Jose. Both these franchises have strong starting goalies, yet lack quality backups, so they're very interested in acquiring the veteran.

Why Calgary? Well, can you name Calgary's backup netminder without having to look it up? Exactly. However, as The Bleacher Report duly points out, Joseph and Calgary coach Mike Keenan don't have the best history together. Is Joseph willing to put behind the past for a backup job? Has enough time passed?

As for San Jose? Well, Evgeni Nabokov has started EVERY SINGLE GAME this season so far, and it's obvious the Sharks are afraid to play anyone else. At least a veteran like Joseph would have the confidence of coach Ron Wilson.

Now, I noted last September, Curtis Joseph is and was well past his expiry date.

Last season, CuJo had a rotten 89.3SV%, well below the league average (90.5%), and has gotten steadily worse each season. Only six goalies with 30+ games played last season has worse numbers than CuJo, and the old dog is not going to get any better. Why bring him in as an expensive backup when you can get a willing, and younger, backup for the league minimum?

His 89.3SV% would put him right in the same spot in the rankings (near the basement), which makes you wonder why a team would even bother signing him as a backup in the first place. Oh, you'll wonder, that is, until you look at those anonymous backup goalies the Sharks and Flames have been playing, and realize that, sadly, CuJo is an upgrade.

Looks like this old dog may have one last trick. It certainly won't make the Sharks and Flames much better to sign the guy, but it'll at least give them a chance to rest their #1 goaltenders more than once every three months.

Curtis Joseph, Wanted Man? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 12 Jan 2008 18:09:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ducks Waive Ilya Bryzgalov

Jes Golbez — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Anaheim, General NHL, Ducks, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Not too long ago, there was talk that the Ducks might let go of high-priced J-S Giguere, and go with the much cheaper Ilya Bryzgalov as their #1 goalie.

Well, with Bryzgalov's pending UFA status, GM Brian Burke decided to waive the kooky Russian netminder.

If Bryzgalov isn't claimed, he'll be assigned to the team's American Hockey League club in Portland, Me.

Bryzgalov, who is making $1,362,500 this season, will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.

For sure, this is a cost-saving measure, and one would have to speculate that the Ducks may be preparing for the return of one indecisive Scott Niedermayer. Why else would the Ducks just waive their long-time backup, who is generally above-average in his play? While Giguere has often been injured in the playoffs, Bryzgalov has always been there, picking up the proverbial ball and running with it.

Looking at this season's stats, Bryzgalov is the superior keeper in save percentage, and has provided with the Ducks with a guy they can depend on when Giguere isn't there.

As per Earl Sleek, our resident Ducks fan:

The odd thing, I guess, is that Bryz this year is not going to be very expensive - there's not really too much savings to be had.

I buy a little bit Burke's "wanting to find him some ice time", as that has been a 2+ year promise. Bryzgalov also will be a UFA next summer, and all our money's going into Getzlaf & Perry's pockets.

Ducks fans will surely miss Bryzgalov's great interviews. Check out the second half of this beauty, where Bryzgalov is drop-dead hilarious as he describes the designs on his goalie mask.

Ducks Waive Ilya Bryzgalov originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ducks Allow Dustin Penner to Become an Oiler

Jes Golbez — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:04:00 EST

Filed under: Anaheim, General NHL, Oilers, Ducks, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Despite all of Brian Burke's huffing and puffing, he did not, in fact, match Kevin Lowe's offer sheet to chunky winger Dustin Penner. Hence, the 29-goal scorer is going to Edmonton with a fat-like-Louie Anderson $21.5mil contract over five seasons.

Desperate for an injection of offense that only a free agency syringe could provide, Lowe paid heavily for a young forward who has just 101 games of experience and one productive season under his hockey pants. Not only are the Oilers coughing up $4.3mil per season for an rather unproven commodity, they also have to give up three draft picks (a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd rounder).

I understand that Kevin Lowe wants some offense, but for that much money, and those kind of draft picks, you better be getting a star. The chances are, Penner will be a solid winger, but nowhere near the kind of assets that Lowe just pissed away. The Oilers would have been better off saving these assets for another day, rather than over-spending in a desperate attempt to get SOMETHING!

"But Jes, they need the offense just to make the playoffs!"

Right, and when they try and make improvements in the future just to make the playoffs (because they are a long way away, folks), or make other moves to strengthen their team, they'll realize that they are hamstrung because they paid so much for a 2nd-line winger.

Many Oilers fans, obviously, aren't too thrilled with having their GM pay SO MUCH for so little. Yet, despite of Lowe's fantasy GM-type moves, you'll be hard-pressed to get any game tickets in Edmonton this fall.

Ducks Allow Dustin Penner to Become an Oiler originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:04:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NHL Fantasy Analysis: Can Keenan Convert to "Kristianity"?

Jes Golbez — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Flames, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Gossip, NHL Rumors

Back when Kristian Huselius was a member of the Florida Panthers, coach "Iron Mike" Keenan made it a point to put the Swedish sniper in his permanent doghouse. Despite Huselius' slick stick-handling skills, boyish looks, and crisp play-making abilities, his game never got off the ground during his time in Florida.

Huselius earned a fresh start in Calgary and made the most of it. Those fantasy players who saw how Kristian came out of his shell as a member of the Flames were most pleased that their investment finally paid off.

Now that Mike Keenan is the new bench boss for the Flames, is the second go-around of this relationship going to go sour, too?

SEASON TEAM GP G A PTS +/-
03-04 FLA 76 10 21 31 -6
05-06 FLA 24 5 3 8 -11
05-06 CGY 54 15 24 39 +2
06-07 CGY 81 34 43 77 +21

As you can see, Huselius' pre-Calgary numbers were horrible. Only after the trade did Huselius produce like he was expected to when he came over from Sweden.
It can't be understated just how much Keenan can ruin the confidence of certain players that don't fit into his 'mold'. Ask Trevor Linden, Martin Gelinas, Tony Amonte, or Stephen Weiss just how fun Keenan was to play for.

After putting together a solid rookie season with the Panthers, Huselius was basically a broken man when Keenan was through with him. Keenan even put Kristian on waivers, twice (no takers), in order to get rid of him.

When the trade to Calgary was made, Huselius got a phone-call from Iron-Mike. Keenan said: "I have moved you to Calgary - good luck man", and then hung up. Nice guy, eh?

It is well known that Keenan had a very high level of disdain for Huselius, and the feeling was mutual. I find it hard to believe that the feelings will have just evaporated all of a sudden. If you were fired from one company where the boss was a tyrant, went to another company, got your career on the fast-track, and then your old tyrant boss was suddenly your new boss? Yeah, you'd be pretty sullen, too.

For fantasy leaguers, especially those without reserve spots, NOW is the time to sell Huselius. While Keenan will try and paint a public rosy picture, one or both of the parties will still harbor ill will towards the other. Huselius will very likely experience a drop in production until Keenan is fired and/or Huselius is traded. Some bumbling GMs will think that Huselius can earn the trust of Keenan and keep producing. Get those suckers to bite!

Jes's Prediction: 45 points.

See also: Huselius Bringing "Kristianity" to Calgary

NHL Fantasy Analysis: Can Keenan Convert to "Kristianity"? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Canucks Dish Out Dough for 'D'

Jes Golbez — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Canucks, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

With the Vancouver Canucks struggling to score more than two goals per game last season, GM Dave Nonis decides to go out and spend big bucks on ... defensemen?

Yes, Nonis was busy giving out contracts yesterday to veteran Aaron Miller (1 year/$1.5mil), and Kevin Bieksa (3-year extension for $11.25mil).

With the signings, the Canucks have an extremely strong and deep defensive corps.

Ohlund-Mitchell
 Bieksa-Salo
 Miller-Krajicek
 Edler-Bourdon

Now, with the Canucks left with only about $3-4mil to sign a couple of wingers, many folks have begun speculating that a trade is in the works. The Canucks are either going to go into next season with a team that is based solely on winning 2-1 games, or somebody is going to be dealt.

Sami Salo? He just signed an extension.
Kevin Bieksa? Ditto.
Lukas Krajicek? Extension, and he's cheap.
Willie Mitchell? He's got a no-trade clause.

This leaves, of course, 30-year old Mattias Ohlund, the veteran who makes $3.5mil a season.

Ohlund has seen a slight decline in play since the lockout, and his value will only continue to decrease. His lack of quickness is noticeable some nights, and he seems to be the best trade bait available for the Canucks to relieve salary pressure AND secure a good scoring winger.

Of course, I won't claim any insider knowledge. Nonis might very well be happy to stick Bourdon in the AHL and go into the season with the defense as it stands right now.

As an aside, don't pick Miller in your office pool. He hasn't scored a goal since BEFORE the lockout (138 games!).

Canucks Dish Out Dough for 'D' originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 09:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Kevin Lowe Ready to Poach Again?

Jes Golbez — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 11:21:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Sabres, Oilers, Eastern, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

After Oilers GM Kevin Lowe was rebuffed in his attempt to make a large RFA offer to Thomas Vanek, he may very well have his sights set on other shiny objects that belong to others.

Lowe has found it near impossible to attract high-end free agents to Edmonton, despite a willingness to overspend in some cases, and he's already burned up valuable assets such as Jason Smith and Joffery Lupul going the trade route to improve the team.

So this becomes a classic case of desperate times calling for desperate measures.

The Sabres matched the offer, meaning the Oilers still have a need to fill, and there are other players available. There's Zach Parise in New Jersey, Mike Cammalleri in Los Angeles, Dustin Penner in Anaheim and Lee Stempniak in St. Louis.

Given how poorly the Oilers treated heart-and-soul Ryan Smyth, and the kind of bush league tactics they employ, is it any wonder why the Oilers can't attract free agents? Even the ones they managed to make a nice offer to, such as Michael Nylander, bolt elsewhere at the first chance.

Now, making RFA offers is a very expensive proposition, for both clubs. In order to make a player sign an offer sheet, the dollar figure has to be quite high. This, in turn, increases the level of compensation one would have to pay if they got the player.

OFFER $660,000 or below Over $660,000 to $1 million Over $1 million to $2.0 million Over $2.0 million to $3.0 million Over $3.0 million to $4.0 million Over $4.0 million to $5.0 million Over $5 million	COMPENSATION None Third-round choice Second-round choice First-round and third-round choice First-round, second-round and third-round choice Two first-round choices, one second- and one third-round choice Four first-round choices

As you can see, anything over $2mil, which is takes to get most any decent player, costs at least a first round draft pick.Are any of the free agents on the market worth the price Lowe would have to pay?

Zach Parise, 22: 82GP 31-31-62PTS
Mike Cammalleri, 25: 81GP 34-46-80PTS
Dustin Penner, 24: 82GP 29-16-45PTS
Lee Stempniak, 25: 82GP 27-25-52PTS

I have no personal problem with the fact that Lowe used the RFA offer sheet to Vanek as a tool to try and improve his own club. It's within the rules, and shouldn't be frowned upon to use it legitimately.

The real problem is that Lowe's offer was just insanely high. Is Vanek worth $7mil a season AND four 1st-round picks?

If you believe the Sabres, the Vanek offer was made with the knowledge that the Sabres would match.

"It was always going to be a match situation," Regier said during a news gathering in Buffalo, "and they were well aware of it last night. I suppose you have to assume they thought we were bluffing. What this amounted to was an exercise in futility."

"If there's an opportunity for us to put an offer sheet on a player, as long as we're alive, we'll be very comfortable doing that," managing partner Larry Quinn said. "They can expect it if it's in our best interest."

The RFA system was designed to make it an undesirable system to use. With the younger UFA age, it's almost not even necessary to use the system and spend valuable draft picks, along with cash, to acquire talent. Only the most desparate GMs, such as Lowe, will take to using such offer sheets.

Is Kevin Lowe Ready to Poach Again? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 07 Jul 2007 11:21:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Big Joe Thornton Signs Big Extension

Jes Golbez — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 13:11:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Sharks, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

The NHL's free agency frenzy began today, and the biggest news pertains to a fellow who wasn't even a free agent this summer: Joe Thornton.

The Sharks, ever eager to lock down their MVP-caliber centerman, didn't waste any time wheelbarrowing in a whack of dough over to Joe's house. The terms are $7.2mil a season for 3 seasons.

"Joe Thornton is among the top group of elite players in the National Hockey League," said GM Doug Wilson in a statement.

"In addition to his play on the ice, Joe leads by example and has as much love for the game as anyone I have seen. Making sure Joe remained in San Jose was a top priority and he will be an integral part of our franchise as we march towards our goal of competing for the Stanley Cup next year and for years to come."

Just $7.2mil for the guy who has lead the NHL in scoring over the past two seasons combined? Hearing about the likes of Scott Gomez getting similar offers leaves me wondering how the Sharks managed Thornton to accept a potential 'discount'. Yeah, the $ figure is astounding, but certainly lower than I figured one of the very best could get on the open market.

Just how good is this trade looking for the Sharks, by the way?

To refresh your memory, Thornton was acquired by San Jose, from Boston, in exchange for LW Marco Sturm, D Brad Stuart and RW Wayne Primeau.

Stuart? After 100 mediocre games (in which he went -32), he was dealt to the Calgary Flames for pennies on the dollar.

Sturm? 87 points in 127 games for Boston. He's been pretty solid for the Bruins, but he's no Joe Thornton.

Primeau? An easily replaceable 4th line slug.

Big Joe Thornton Signs Big Extension originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 01 Jul 2007 13:11:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jason Allison: Back from the Abyss

Jes Golbez — Sat, 30 Jun 2007 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Gossip, NHL Rumors

With all of the big names (Briere, Gomez, Kariya) on the market tomorrow, there will be a lot of big money tossed around by drooling GMs.

The smart GMs will go bargain hunting, and may come across an old classic: Jason Allison, the playmaking center that sat out the entire 06-07 season.

"I'm physically and mentally as healthy as I've been in five years," Allison told The Canadian Press in an interview on Friday. "I'm excited and ready to go."

The 32-year-old free-agent centre disappeared into the NHL wilderness last year, taking a season off while ironing out issues in his private life.

"I had a lot of personal stuff to deal with last year -- just getting my life re-organized and dealing with family issues," said Allison, who went through a divorce. "It's been a good year for me, even though I didn't play hockey and people were wondering where I was or what I was doing ...

I wasn't aware of Allison's personal turmoils, figuring his absence was completely because of GM's scared that Allison was too slow for today's NHL.

Despite Jason's apparent lack of foot-speed (if you ask most 'experts'), there are few forwards more productive on the Power Play. Allison is productive, as we can see ...

SEASON TEAM  GP G A PTS
 2001-02 Kings 73 19 55 74
 2002-03 Kings 26 6 22 28
 2005-06 Leafs 66 17 43 60

Lack of foot-speed? Too slow for the NHL? Hmm, I wouldn't mind a point-a-guy player on my team. You just know Allison will be a bargain for whoever happens to sign him, as GMs are seemingly afraid of Allison like a bad cold.

Jason Allison: Back from the Abyss originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 30 Jun 2007 09:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Canucks Won't Ride the Chou-Chou Train Next Season

Jes Golbez — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:07:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Canucks, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Another day, another buyout in the NHL.

The Canucks made waves (well, more like ripples) when they announced that they would buy out big lug Marc Chouinard, the clumsiest skater this side of Manute Bol.

Chouinard was placed on waivers yesterday, the first step towards a buyout. He will be owed two-thirds of the $1.1 million US remaining on his contract once he clears.

The buyout amount -- $733,326 -- will count against the Canucks' salary cap and will be spread over two seasons, meaning Vancouver GM Dave Nonis will have $366,663 of "dead money" on the books for both the 2007-'08 and 2008-'09 NHL campaigns.

It is puzzling why the Canucks didn't just leave Chouinard on the farm, instead of putting some dead money on the cap total. The Canucks need every penny they can get, given their current financial situation and Markus Naslund's expensive contract.

Marc Chouinard was definitely a big disappointment for the Canucks, literally and figuratively. After giving the Minnesota Wild a few good seasons of solid 2-way play, Chouinard was absolute garbage for the Canucks.


SEASON  TEAM    GP G  A PTS PIM

2002-03 DUCKS   70 3  4  7  40

2003-04 WILD    45 11 10 21 17

2005-06 WILD    74 14 16 30 34

2006-07 CANUCKS 42 2  2  4  10

If you ever wanted proof of Jacques Lemaire's coaching mastery, look no further than the fact they he got a 30-point season out of Chouinard. If the Wild don't want to re-sign him, then he seems to be pretty much worthless, unless you like slow-skating centermen. (Paging Bobby Clarke!!)

Canucks Won't Ride the Chou-Chou Train Next Season originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:07:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No More Dallas in St. Louis

Jes Golbez — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:20:00 EST

Filed under: St. Louis, General NHL, Blues, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

The St. Louis Blues made a shocking move as they put 38-year old captain Dallas Drake on waivers with the intention of buying him out and clearing a little bit of cap space if he goes unclaimed.

Given how hard Drake worked night in and night out for the Blues, and given their lack of leadership, it's somewhat strange that they would boot their captain out the door.

The Blues say the move wasn't about saving money. Rather, they need the roster spot heading into training camp. Several of the Blues' young players, such as D.J. King, will need to clear waivers this season to be sent to Peoria, and the Blues don't want to risk losing them.

"We tried to make deals during the draft to open up roster spots, and we couldn't make any deals," Blues President John Davidson said. "If we could have found ways to open up more spots with certain deals, then we wouldn't have to worry so much about our 23-man roster. If you look at our roster, there's only a couple of spots open for free agents and we need a couple of free agents, if we can."

Dallas Drake's offensive production slipped to a mere 12 points in 60 games last season, and it was clear that he was a one-dimensional defensive forward. Still, he led the Blues' forwards in PK ice time, and was still able to get under the skin of many opposing scoring stars. It's not as if he wasn't without SOME value.

Fine, the Blues want to clear a roster spot for a younger player with more upside. I understand that. But, DJ King? A goon that had just 9 points in 38 AHL games? What's the use?

Drake would make a good 4th liner on a team willing to give him a spot, but the old fart may want to retire, instead of making the league minimum and playing a greatly diminished role.

No More Dallas in St. Louis originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scott Niedermayer to Retire?

Jes Golbez — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:46:00 EST

Filed under: Anaheim, General NHL, Ducks, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Gossip, NHL Rumors

One would think that Anaheim Ducks defenseman Scott Niedermayer, who just won the Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe trophies, would be kicking ass and taking names for years to come.

Apparently not, claims Ducks GM Brian Burke, who relayed a shocking bit of info to the hockey world.

"Scott has indicated that he's thinking about retirement," Ducks GM Brian Burke told The Canadian Press on Tuesday.

The Conn Smythe Trophy winner as playoff MVP informed Burke of the possibility during the players' exit interviews a few days after Anaheim won its championship.

Now that Scott, who is 33 years of age, has fulfilled a life-long dream of winning the cup with his brother, Rob Niedermayer, there isn't much for Scott to play for other than large paychecks and groping groupies.

Some players don't need or have the desire to play until their legs fall off and they are booted out unceremoniously. Wayne Gretzky quit at the right time, while Mark Messier played long after his best-before date.

I just can't fathom how Scott Niedermayer could possibly retire when he's on top of the hockey world. This isn't a Barry Sanders situation, where Scott is stuck with a bad franchise. The Ducks are favorites to win the Cup next year, and Scott couldn't ask for a better situation to be in.

After a few fishing trips, I'm sure the hockey craving will come back to Scotty, and he'll be leading the Ducks to another successful season.

Scott Niedermayer to Retire? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:46:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yashin Looking to Ca$h in with the Canadiens?

Jes Golbez — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 15:20:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Canadiens, Eastern, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Alexei Yashin, who cashed in on the Islanders buying out his bloated albatross of a contract, is looking for a new sucker to pay him big bucks to rack up some empty offensive points.

His prime choice? Apparently, it's Montreal!

Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette reports on rumors that Yashin is training with Saku Koivu, and would love to join Alexei Kovalev and his other homeys with the Habs next season.

Given the problems that the Canadiens had with their Russian vodka headaches last season (especially Sergei Samsonov), would the Habs really want to sign a guy like Yashin?

The Habs are in desperate need of a centre with size, and the 6-foot-3, 225-pound Yashin appears to be the kind of player that's worth a gamble. That's the case for Yashin, but the argument against bringing him here seems stronger.

While the Canadiens talk about revving up the offense, the team's system is built on defense first. That's one of the reasons why it was a surprise that Samsonov, last summer's free-agent prize, didn't work because he has been a plus player over his career.

With Radek Bonk UFA's status, the Habs are quite small down the middle with guys like Koivu, Tomas Plekanec, and Chris Higgins. Adding a tall centerman would certainly make some sense.

Now, the Habs had the league's best Power Play last season. Yes, they may lose UFA blaster master Sheldon Souray to another team, but the Habs don't appear to need help with the man-advantage other than getting Souray back, or signing another point-man replacement.

The Habs' total offense was just middle-of-the-road, suggesting that the Habs are weak at even strength. Given how Yashin is strongest on the Power Play, he wouldn't really help in this area, either.

Then, we come back to the style of play the Habs play. Samsonov and Alexei Kovalev whined all year about being restricted offensively. How can a guy like Yashin expect to flourish in such a system?

If I were the Canadiens GM, I'd see if I could sign Yashin for quite cheap. If not, then I'd focus on getting a big 2-way or defensive center ... or bring Radek Bonk back. What the Habs need more of it grit, not another Russian headache.

Yashin Looking to Ca$h in with the Canadiens? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 15:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Tin Man Rides off into the Sunset

Jes Golbez — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Avalanche, Western, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Gambling, NHL Hall of Fame, NHL Rumors

Pierre Turgeon, reports the Denver Post, is set to retire after a very productive and underrated NHL career.

Pierre Turgeon, the NHL's 27th all-time leading scorer who played his final two seasons with the Avalanche, has decided to retire.

Sources close to the 37-year-old Turgeon said he will make an official announcement soon. He will live with his family in the Denver area, where he helps coach his daughter's hockey team.

Turgeon, given the derisive nickname "Tin Man", because he apparently lacked heart, has generally been looked down upon for being 'soft' or some other nonsense. Despite what people say 1,327 points in 1,294 career regular season games is the mark of a special player.

Despite Turgeon's point totals, there are many who doubt that he belongs in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Apart from an explosive 1992-93 season, in which Pierre had 132 points in 58 games, Turgeon was generally not one of the NHLs top players in any season in which he played. Yes, Turgeon was good, but Hall of Famers tend to be 'great' players. It's not an easy call, by any stretch.

Many have called Turgeon a softy, but 97 points in 109 career playoff games shows that he could produce when the chips were down. During his days with the Blues, he led the Blues in playoff scoring in two of five post-seasons he was with them.

I don't believe Turgeon's lack of entry into the Stanley Cup Finals should be held against him. Hockey is a team game, and it takes more than one player to make a cup winning team. Anyone remember how Hall of Famer Marcel Dionne never got a sniff of the cup?

The biggest mistake, I'll maintain, that Turgeon ever made was signing with the Dallas Stars in 2001. Playing on a defensive-oriented team that already was strong down the middle, Turgeon was never given a starring role, and never allowed to play to his ability. On another team, Turgeon would have put up better numbers, and probably cemented his HoF case a lot more than he has.

There are certainly lesser players in the Hall of Fame (Clark Gillies and Bernie Federko, anyone?), and Turgeon wouldn't be out of place there. Just put him in the same wing as Mike Gartner, another very productive player who was never all that great.

The Tin Man Rides off into the Sunset originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scott Gomez Set to Enjoy Freedom and Big Bucks

Jes Golbez — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST

Filed under: General NHL, Devils, Eastern, Fantasy Hockey, NHL Rumors

Devils centerman Scott Gomez confirmed what most believed when he declared his intentions to test the open market.

That sound you hear? A whole bunch of NHL GM's drooling over the prospect of adding this guy to their roster. (Or maybe it's just your stomach. Lay off the Doritos, will ya?)

Gomez, back home in Anchorage, Alaska, said there have been no negotiations with the Devils since the team was eliminated from the playoffs and he will definitely test the market.

"To have come this far, every hockey player wants to see what's out there," Gomez said via telephone. "It wouldn't make any sense not to go all the way now. There haven't been any negotiations (with the Devils). None at all. I'm sure they have stuff to do."

While Gomez has never really made the leap from his rookie season (70 points) to being a bonafide superstar, he has been one of the most consistent playmaking centers in the league the past few seasons. Getting him into a system that allows him to be more free and creative could likely to result in even more production from Gomez in the future.

From New Jersey's perspective, you can clearly understand why they didn't even bother offering Gomez a new contract. The Devils have over $30mil already committed to player contracts for next season, and had to do some creative accounting not to go over the mark this past season.

This past summer, Gomez wanted $6.5mil a season from the Devils. Eventually, he 'won' $5mil in an arbitrator's ruling, and you know he wasn't too thrilled with that number. Gomez is 27 and at his prime, so he's in a great position to secure a lucrative long-term deal for himself. It's obvious that he's got some $'s in his eyes right about now.

Now, looking at these numbers, do you think Gomez can justify asking for a $6.5mil/season contract?

SEASON GP G A PTS PIM
2002-03 80 13 42 55 48
2003-04 80 14 56 70 70
2005-06 82 33 51 84 42
2006-07 72 13 47 60 42

As much as I'd love to see Gomez on my team, and as much as he might really enjoy playing for a coach who lets him roam around a bit, I don't think I'd want to spend $6mil+ per season for him. Apart from one crazy outlier of a season in 05-06, Gomez doesn't even break 14 goals per season, and hasn't shown the numbers to earn a premium salary. You'd have to be a real 'Gomer' to sign Gomez for that coin.

See also: What's Next in New Jersey?

Scott Gomez Set to Enjoy Freedom and Big Bucks originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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