2015-16 NHL Season

[M2]

It's July 1. Time to turn the page on a new NHL season. The Blue Jackets and Blackhawks just pulled off a monster deal that involved Brandon Saad. Saad joins Dougie Hamilton as a young player you thought was untouchable who got traded this summer. Could be a crazy next few days in the NHL.

Oh, and cities are putting in expansion applications too. On top of that, the City of Glendale has voted to terminate its deal with the Coyotes, which probably didn't want to terminate that deal until next year. The NY Post reported some billionaire wants to buy the team and move it to Vegas for 2016-17. Everyone is denying it, but in a way that makes you think it's likely true. Fact is, the NHL should coyote arm its way out of Arizona if it comes to that.

[M2]

Phil Kessel traded to the Pens. The Maple Leafs are in full teardown mode. Kessel will put plenty of pucks in the net, but seems like an odd fit for a Pens team that get real soft at the end of last season.

Glen Sather just stepped down as the GM of the Rangers, replaced by his assistant Jeff Gorton.

[Tom Servo]

Oh, and cities are putting in expansion applications too. On top of that, the City of Glendale has voted to terminate its deal with the Coyotes, which probably didn't want to terminate that deal until next year. The NY Post reported some billionaire wants to buy the team and move it to Vegas for 2016-17. Everyone is denying it, but in a way that makes you think it's likely true. Fact is, the NHL should coyote arm its way out of Arizona if it comes to that.
I'm following this closely as I have always been fascinated by teams moving. I actually watched the meeting the Glendale board had in 2013 where they decided by a slim margin to keep the team, and now it came out this year that one of the guys selling the council on keeping them was in the Coyotes backpocket. The whole situation is toxic and in 20 years hockey in Arizona still hasn't been a success, they really need to split even if the NHL wants to maintain the status quo.

[M2]

I'm following this closely as I have always been fascinated by teams moving. I actually watched the meeting the Glendale board had in 2013 where they decided by a slim margin to keep the team, and now it came out this year that one of the guys selling the council on keeping them was in the Coyotes backpocket. The whole situation is toxic and in 20 years hockey in Arizona still hasn't been a success, they really need to split even if the NHL wants to maintain the status quo.

The Coyotes also gave themselves an out clause which they should hit next year. They've bent over Glendale. If the city was smart, it would tell the team to pack its bags.

[Joseph]

Patrick Sharp gone. Been a long time Hawk and it's always tough to see those guys leave, but had to be done for budgetary reasons. I'm hoping Daley gets into the Hawks system and can be an asset. His CORSI numbers weren't good in Dallas despite his 16 goals [the same as Sharp]. Still might end up a good trade.

[Kingspoint]

Patrick Sharp gone. Been a long time Hawk and it's always tough to see those guys leave, but had to be done for budgetary reasons. I'm hoping Daley gets into the Hawks system and can be an asset. His CORSI numbers weren't good in Dallas despite his 16 goals [the same as Sharp]. Still might end up a good trade.

That gives them a whopping $1M in cap space now. More trades are on the way.

[Joseph]

That gives them a whopping $1M in cap space now. More trades are on the way.

No question there. Bickell still has to go.

I've heard the number is a little higher though, could be wrong, but I've heard 2.3 million.

[Kingspoint]

No question there. Bickell still has to go.

I've heard the number is a little higher though, could be wrong, but I've heard 2.3 million.

As long as they don't lose Toews and Kane, the rest can be worked out.

[Tom Servo]

Johnny Oduya gone from Chicago as well, signs with Dallas.

[Kingspoint]

Johnny Oduya gone from Chicago as well, signs with Dallas.

He joins Sharp in Dallas. Too bad a trade couldn't have been worked out with Dallas in the Sharp trade that would have sent Oduya there for something in return, since he was going there anyway.

[Kingspoint]

Great way to celebrate a new contract....

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

Ryan O'Reilly has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and for failing to stay at the scene.

The alleged incident occurred on July 9 around 4:00 a.m. and the charges were announced Monday night. Middlesex County OPP reported that a Chevrolet pickup truck, which O'Reilly was reportedly driving, crashed into a commercial building. He drove away from the scene and eventually left the vehicle to proceed on foot with another man. He was arrested and given breath testing before eventually being released. O'Reilly will be in court on August 20. He signed a signed a seven-year, $52.5 million contract with Buffalo on July 3.

Source: AM 980

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

Ryan Kesler has inked a six-year, $41.25 million contract extension with the Anaheim Ducks.

That works out to be a $6.875 million annual cap hit. Additionally, Kesler still has one season left on his six-year, $30 million deal, so his newly signed contract won't begin until the 2016-17 campaign. Keep in mind that Kesler will turn 31 years old on August 31, so new deal will take him well past his prime. That's our main issue with this extension because in the short-term, an argument can be made that he's worth that cap hit given solid two-way play and his ability to step up in the playoffs. It wouldn't be surprising though to see the Ducks regretting this contract in just a few years.

Source: Eric Stephens on Twitter

[Tom Servo]

Brendan Shanahan, President and Alternate Governor of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced today that Lou Lamoriello has been named the 16th General Manager in the Club’s history. Lamoriello joins the Leafs after previously spending the last 28 years in the New Jersey Devils organization.

https://38.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lr9ng1c6SH1qc5vcdo1_250.gif

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

The NHL has reached a six-year digital media rights partnership deal with Major League Baseball Advanced Media.

MLBAM will run GameCenter Live, Centre Ice, the NHL Network, NHL.com and the individual team websites. "As the market leader, MLBAM is uniquely qualified to assist us in giving hockey fans a richer, more immersive experience with the game," said Commissioner Gary Bettman. "MLBAM is also the right partner because they have the expertise to help us deliver new and exciting products to our fans, who crave compelling digital content. We couldn't have North America better covered than with the power of NBC, Rogers, TVA and MLBAM – an incredible convergence of technical, creative and production talent that is great news for our fans."

Source: NHL.com (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=776247&navid=nhl:topheads)

[Chip R]

Not good news.

http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/06/report-patrick-kane-the-subject-of-a-police-investigation/?ocid=Yahoo&partner=ya5nbcs

[Kingspoint]

Not good news.

http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2015/08/06/report-patrick-kane-the-subject-of-a-police-investigation/?ocid=Yahoo&partner=ya5nbcs

Past issues aside, I hope justice prevails whatever the truth is here.

[Joseph]

Kane...wtf are you doing man?

Hope the truth comes out.

[Joseph]

Lawyers hired. Lots of articles. Lots of 'journalists' have indicated that if I'm still a Kane fan at this point that it makes me pro-rape. It's getting ugly out there. I hope he didn't do it, for his sake, for my sake as a fan, and most of all for the young ladies sake. No one deserves that.

[Gallen5862]

Kris Versteeg has been shipped to Carolina, along with Joakim Nordstrom and a third-round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, in exchange for Dennis Robertson, Jake Massie and a fifth-round pick in 2017.
Versteeg has 14 goals and 34 points in 61 games with Chicago last season. "Kris is a skilled forward who has won a pair of Cups with the Blackhawks and can provide veteran leadership in our room," said GM Ron Francis. Versteeg will probably get a look in Carolina's top-six forward group this year.
Source: Hurricanes.nhl.com

[Joseph]

A considerable amount of consternation seems to be coming from the press concerning Patrick Kanes appearance at Blackhawks training camp. For whatever reason they expected an open Q&A session and instead got a canned response. Not sure why they expected something else, but he's certainly not going to comment during an ongoing investigation.

[Kingspoint]

A considerable amount of consternation seems to be coming from the press concerning Patrick Kanes appearance at Blackhawks training camp. For whatever reason they expected an open Q&A session and instead got a canned response. Not sure why they expected something else, but he's certainly not going to comment during an ongoing investigation.

I saw one reporter respond that she was shocked that the Blackhawks were willing to take any question at all.

[Chip R]

Jaromir Jagr wins life.

http://elitedaily.com/sports/czech-model-katka-provaznikova-jaromir-jagr/1221416/

[Tom Servo]

Jaromir Jagr wins life.

http://elitedaily.com/sports/czech-model-katka-provaznikova-jaromir-jagr/1221416/
Isn't the whole idea of blackmail that the person you are blackmailing wouldn't want this information out there? Why would a bachelor care that it's known he slept with a supermodel? I guess the 18 thing is supposed to scandalous but this is America, pal.

[Chip R]

Isn't the whole idea of blackmail that the person you are blackmailing wouldn't want this information out there? Why would a bachelor care that it's known he slept with a supermodel? I guess the 18 thing is supposed to scandalous but this is America, pal.

Yeah, not the brightest porch light on the block.

[Joseph]

Wait, I'm a 43 year old bachelor and an 18 year old model wants to tell the world I slept with her? Tweet away.

[M2]

Jackets start 0-7 and then hire John Tortorella off the ex-coach merry-go-round. I will be mildly amazed if Torts isn't still stuck in anti-hockey. Maybe that helps Columbus in the short term, but the game has largely passed him by.

I say this lousy start is karmic payback for trading for Dave Clarkson in order to clear the cap minimum.

[westofyou]

The Columbus Blue Jackets are 0-8.

It’s a startling record, the worst start in the NHL since the New York Rangers went 0-11-0 to start the 1943-44 season. It’s been 72 years since a team has started this poorly.

[reds44]

Hope Saad is enjoying that money!

[M2]

The Columbus Blue Jackets are 0-8.

It’s a startling record, the worst start in the NHL since the New York Rangers went 0-11-0 to start the 1943-44 season. It’s been 72 years since a team has started this poorly.

The only thing the Jackets have going for them is the Eastern Conference looks top heavy. After you get past the Rangers, Islanders, Caps, Canadiens and Lightning it's a bit of a scrum. Everyone expects the Pens (because of star talent) and Wings (because they always do) to get their acts together, but this could be the season where those clubs run out of steam. The opportunity will be there late in the season if Columbus can start playing respectable hockey.

[Joseph]

Columbus has some talent, but I don't know that they can scrape their way into the playoffs with this start.

[westofyou]

Columbus has some talent, but I don't know that they can scrape their way into the playoffs with this start.

Lot of hockey left, they might get a 8 or 7

[M2]

One of the developing storylines this season is the Islanders can't fill their new digs in Brooklyn. They're averaging just over 12k a game, 29th in the NHL (only Carolina is worse). Seems like the major problem is they moved into the Rangers' backyard and Rangers fans aren't flocking to Islanders games. New York is a big city with lots of hockey fans, but those fans are spoken for.

If this continues, the Islanders may not last long in Brooklyn. Whether they go back to Long Island or up to Quebec City, no one knows. Yet they're up against it.

[M2]

The NHL is trying to figure out how to make goalies look less like Transformers (http://www.startribune.com/nhl-insider-goalies-to-cut-down-in-size-as-soon-as-next-season/349149781/). From that same article:

Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen continues to work the phone hard trying to make a trade for a defenseman. He’s shopping Cam Atkinson and Kerby Rychel hard.

If that's true, they'll find some takers.

Also, tons of trade rumors around the Avalanche. The Central Division is loaded and at least one pretty good team won't be making the playoffs. The Avs seem stuck in that basement and names like Matt Duchene and Tyson Barrie are floating around.

[Joseph]

The NHL is trying to figure out how to make goalies look less like Transformers (http://www.startribune.com/nhl-insider-goalies-to-cut-down-in-size-as-soon-as-next-season/349149781/). From that same article:

Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen continues to work the phone hard trying to make a trade for a defenseman. He’s shopping Cam Atkinson and Kerby Rychel hard.

If that's true, they'll find some takers.

Also, tons of trade rumors around the Avalanche. The Central Division is loaded and at least one pretty good team won't be making the playoffs. The Avs seem stuck in that basement and names like Matt Duchene and Tyson Barrie are floating around.


The Central is jacked. Some very good teams will definitely be on the outside looking in with the current format, possibly even the defending Stanley Cup champs.

[M2]

The Central is jacked. Some very good teams will definitely be on the outside looking in with the current format, possibly even the defending Stanley Cup champs.

You're just being modest to avoid it becoming a curse. The Blackhawks will be in the playoffs. Winnipeg is the team in the hot seat (6th place) at the moment. Though I suspect St. Louis will hit a cold stretch at some point this season and I'm not sure that team will hold together when it does. That team might feel it missed a window.

[IslandRed]

Interesting change to the All-Star Game format:


The scoring chances, skill and intensity that have made 3-on-3 overtime a must-see part of the game this season will be on display in a revamped format for the 2016 Honda NHL All-Star Game at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Jan. 31.

The NHL and NHL Players' Association announced Wednesday that the All-Star Game will be transformed into a 3-on-3 All-Star Tournament comprised of three 20-minute games played by divisional all-star teams competing for a winner-take-all $1 million prize.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=788527&navid=nhl:topheads

[Patrick Bateman]

You're just being modest to avoid it becoming a curse. The Blackhawks will be in the playoffs. Winnipeg is the team in the hot seat (6th place) at the moment. Though I suspect St. Louis will hit a cold stretch at some point this season and I'm not sure that team will hold together when it does. That team might feel it missed a window.

The Hawks definitely are more vulnerable this year, but d hae some young NHL cuspy guys in the AHL that I expect will over take some roles this year. Should be a solid playoff team, but with the parity around it's not impossible they end up in a situation similar to LA last year.

[Kingspoint]

Artemi Panarin, the 24-year old "rookie" is having a terrific season. Easily the most productive player per dollar spent on the team.

[Kingspoint]

Any comments on any of the trades?

Giving up Seth Jones is a lot, but they got a lot in return, and they could afford the loss of Jones. They need the Offense.

[IslandRed]

Any comments on any of the trades?

Giving up Seth Jones is a lot, but they got a lot in return, and they could afford the loss of Jones. They need the Offense.

That's pretty much been the Predators' deal for most of the last decade: playoffs-worthy more often than not, but not enough firepower to be a serious threat once they get there. I hope this move helps.

[M2]

Any comments on any of the trades?

Giving up Seth Jones is a lot, but they got a lot in return, and they could afford the loss of Jones. They need the Offense.

I am in shock the Flyers were able to dump $4M in salary on Kings, which are now jammed up against the cap.

I'm thinking Columbus wins long-term on the Jones-Johansen deal. Wild guess, but I'm thinking Johansen was available because of friction between him and Torts.

[Kingspoint]

Blackhawks look to set a new franchise record on Tuesday against Nashville as they go for their 12th straight win. They weren't supposed to be this good this year. But, as was mentioned a few posts ago by a knowledgable Canadian, there was potential help from some quality minor league players.

[Joseph]

Panarin has been every bit as good as advertised for his first year in the NHL. He could be another Kane like scorer with some time and that's scary. The Hawks have had a couple kids step up this year, Gustafson on D, Danault has filled in very well for Kruger, Rassmussen has been solid at that 4th line center role. The trade of Sharp was a bust, save the cap relief provided, but the deal with CBus for Anisimov has been very good for them.

I had no belief they would come together this well, but after a slow start they look like they've found their pacing. Will be interesting to see what happens come playoff time and they are up against the Kings or Blues in a no holds barred situation, but I'm looking forward to it.

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said the league isn't going to rush the expansion process.

The league will likely expand in the near future with Las Vegas, Quebec and Seattle all being potential destinations. "We’re going through an orderly process, this is a very important decision," said Bettman. "Lots of things have to be evaluated and considered." Expansion isn't a slam dunk, but should the executive committee decide to add more teams, they'd need at least one year to prepare before joining the NHL. The earliest we'll see an expansion team is 2017-18.

Source:*Sportsnet.ca

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

Commissioner Gary Bettman said on Saturday that the NHL would not accept an application from the City of Seattle for an expansion team.

There is no arena in Seattle that is suitable for an NHL franchise and nothing on the horizon as far as a new one is concerned but the NHL put out bids last year and nothing came from anyone wanting a franchise in Seattle. "If someone wanted to give us an application right now, we wouldn’t take it," Bettman said Saturday. The NHL would love a team in the Pacific Northwest but if no one is coming forward, it's not happening.

Source:*Los Angeles Daily News



And, a top 'o the morning to you, Paul Allen. Allen, who showed heavy interest when the Penguins' franchise was facing bankruptcy proceedings, before he owned the Seahawks, and was snubbed by the NHL when they could have used his financial support, no longer has interest to own a franchise of a favorite sport of his. Two bouts with cancer and three Super Bowls later, he's content to amke another run with the Trailblazers while continuing to enjoy the success he's had with the Seahawks.

I'd love to have NHL hockey here in Portland at the ROSE Quarter/MODA Center, but there isn't anyone here with the passion and money to make it happen.

[M2]

I suspect the ongoing disaster in Arizona complicates matters. The league knows it has to keep a viable option on the table for when its futile effort to play in AZ reaches its inevitable end.

There's also the question of which team moves west if/when the league puts a franchise in Quebec City. Columbus, I'm looking at you. Even then, the divisions in the east become impossible with QC in the mix.

[Kingspoint]

Patrick Kane (if he doesn't get injured...knock on wood) is going to be the first American-born player to ever,...yes, ever, win the league scoring title, which tells you just how Canadian the NHL still is.

Seems strange to me to have Hockey in cities it doesn't snow at for most of the Winter.

[M2]

Deadline Day today. The Blackhawks look like they've done most of their business, getting Andrew Ladd, Christian Erhoff, Dale Weise and Toman Fleischmann. Florida grabbed Jiri Hudler, Teddy Purcell and Justin Schultz. The Kings landed Kris Versteeg (I think there's a law he gets dealt every winter) and Rob Scuderi.

The Rangers traded for Eric Staal last night. This morning the Caps moved Brooks Laich's contract for Daniel Winnik, which creates $2.25M in cap space. That might tip a later move today.

[Kingspoint]

Chicago at Detroit tonight. Chicago needs to find that formula again that had them rocking for most of the season.

A classic rivalry to bring out the best in them. Unfortunately, it will bring out the best in Detroit, too. But, that's OK. A playoff atmosphere to test both teams. Should be Chicago's best hockey in a month, but still might not be good enough for a win.

[Kingspoint]

http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/25505753/watch-the-kings-and-ducks-had-an-old-fashioned-line-brawl

[Todd Gack]

'Hawks lose in OT. Tough game to swallow after dominating most of that game only to have Elliot play a phenomenal game in goal for the Blues.

[Kingspoint]

'Hawks lose in OT. Tough game to swallow after dominating most of that game only to have Elliot play a phenomenal game in goal for the Blues.They lost three tight ones to them in the regular season. I see a pattern here.

[Kingspoint]

I'm at the Blazer game and I've got my phone on nhl.com watching the last bit of life for the Hawks. Great series.

[M2]

I'd have taken Hawks over Blues in a deciding game ... and I'd have lost that bet.

Over in the East, I'm thinking the Islanders' punishing 4th line is going to become a major story. Other teams may go fetal position against those guys - "Please, stop hitting us."

[M2]

Apparently ratings are in the tank (http://www.forbes.com/sites/alishagrauso/2016/06/06/perfect-storm-of-obstacles-undermining-ratings-for-nhls-2016-stanley-cup-final/#485b2279cf4f) for the Sharks-Penguins matchup. Supposedly it's a series littered with star power, but Sidney Crosby and Joe Thornton have never been the kinds of stars who draw viewers.

[westofyou]

Apparently ratings are in the tank (http://www.forbes.com/sites/alishagrauso/2016/06/06/perfect-storm-of-obstacles-undermining-ratings-for-nhls-2016-stanley-cup-final/#485b2279cf4f) for the Sharks-Penguins matchup. Supposedly it's a series littered with star power, but Sidney Crosby and Joe Thornton have never been the kinds of stars who draw viewers.

True, plus there is no sexy side story nor are Sharks worth the never been there story, still feel expansion to some

[M2]

True, plus there is no sexy side story nor are Sharks worth the never been there story, still feel expansion to some

The Sharks also fizzled so many times, people might consider this a fluke run. One common thread that seems to apply to the entire Eastern Conference is everyone hates the Penguins. Mix a team no one believes in with a wildly unpopular team and you get a series people figure they can skip.

[Joseph]

I think Sidney Crosby is disliked/hated by both East and West and the Pens deal with that fallout as a result. I've disliked superstars on other teams and in other sports but more in a 'jealous' sort of way. IE I hated them because they were so good, but would have loved them on my team. Not so with Sid the kid, I don't want him anywhere near the Indian head sweater.

Hockey is still a tough sell in the states unless you have one of the major markets involved. Pens vs Sharks doesn't stir the drink.

[Kingspoint]

When I see Pittsburgh win, I think that it couod have been Portland's franchise. When they were bankrupt about 20 years ago, Paul Allen was ready to bring them to Portland and we had the arena, but the NHL said no. That's as close as we ever got to an NHL, MLB, or NFL franchise, and was probably our last chance.

[Kingspoint]

I see that Mecca of ice hockey, Las Vegas, received a franchise from the NHL. San Antonio wasn't available?

[M2]

I see that Mecca of ice hockey, Las Vegas, received a franchise from the NHL. San Antonio wasn't available?

IIRC, Vegas pre-sold some ridiculous number of season tickets. There's something to be said for wanting. Love this: NHL logos remade with Vegas flair (http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/16044186/nhl-national-hockey-league-team-logos-redesigned-las-vegas).

[Kingspoint]

Well, it took until 2016, but an American-born player finally won the NHL's MVP award, the Hart trophy. Voters left no doubt giving Patrick Kane 121 1st Place votes to distant runner-up Crosby's 11 votes.

All of the teams located in the U.S. in cities that don't give a crap about the sport of hockey enough to have facilities built throughout these cities so kids who have been inspired by their local team can go and play and practice for fun. It's economic suicide for the NHL to have too many teams in Canadian cities as there aren't enough people living there. There's 3 million more people living in the state of California than there are living in all of Canada.

"If you build it, they will come."

If the NHL had any semblance of foresight in their brains, they would require each franchise, Canadian or U.S. to build and operate in a welcoming manner the way community centers operate, one ice arena with seating for at least 1500 for every 100,000 people living within 30 miles of the arena. Existing ice arenas that already have seating for 1500 can count towards the quota. Facilities would be required to be spread around for the sole purpose making it easier get to a facility to practice and must be on frequent service public transportation lines.

These facilities would encourage the development of junior leagues, providing economic assistance for equipment to dress and protect the players. They would be required to have mandatory protocols in place for dealing with concussions forcing all kids to go through medical testing in order to be symptom-free of brain trauma before they can advance to the next stage of whatever it takes to get back into a game. This should be done in every activity and sport at every level of school right now. The NHL could be the leaders in proving they care about the safety of those who participate in activities that include heads receiving impacts for whatever reason. The league will have a department created that supports financially 75% for the building and operating of these facilities with one full-time liason located at the team's facility who regularly monitors all of the facilities being operated with carte blanche to look over any costs, plans, communications which include emails relating to these facilities (to make sure contracts are being done fairly and in a way that supports the local community, such as no out-of-state contracts allowed), communicates with community leaders within 30 miles of the facilities reminding them that hockey time takes precedent over free-skate, so that the arenas are open to ice hockey practicing after school during school seasons. Summers and breaks, there would be more free-skate time available. At first these arenas would be empty Monday through Friday after school, but it wouldn't take long for the teaching clinics to have their effect and kids would start coming in to play.

It's all about opportunity. Create the opportunity and encourage the interest and the results will come. This would place hockey in the hearts and minds of the communities 12 months out of the year, creating strong fan bases for the franchises, but more importantly, creating the opportunity for 100 million kids across the U.S. to have access to playing hockey on a daily basis with teaching and safety available year around. All player contracts would get charged a tax that goes in the league general fund to support the building and operating of these facilities of 1% for the bottom 50% annual amount, 2% for 50-75, 3% for 75-90, 4% for 90-95, and 5% for 95-100. So, everybody pays to support this,...the league pays 75% less the players' contribution, and the franchises pay 25%, but do most of the daily operations, which would be deducted from that 25%, with the difference made up by the league.

Doing this would improve the image of the league, create a love for hockey that leads to better television revenue, and create American stars that generate more interest for kids to want to copy and be like, which brings more kids to the local arenas.

Hockey used to be played on a regular basis in much of this country at the grade school level. Good luck finding that happening outside of Minnesota and upper New England. Hockey needs a vision or they continue to disappear in this country just like it's many ice pavillions have that used to be meccas for playing the game.

[M2]

The NHL has proven that people will not necessarily come if you build it. Arizona, Carolina, Florida and Columbus are all weak draws. The Islanders just moved a really good team into a new arena in Brooklyn and struggled at the gate (because hockey fans in Brooklyn like the Rangers). Every Canadian team is at or near 100% capacity for its home games, even Edmonton which has been terrible for a decade. Canadian television pays big bucks to air NHL games. If the league adds or moves a team to Quebec City, that franchise is going to bang out its arena 41 nights a year. Move a team to San Diego and you'll have a disaster on your hands.

I love the ideas about making the NHL more of a presence in the teams' communities, but it's not a plug and play sport. It's got first mover advantage in Vegas, which has no top tier pro sports teams and is hungry for one. Yet if you tried to put it in Charlotte or Orlando, I'm thinking that's destined to fail.

FWIW, there's a ton of youth hockey in NY, NJ and PA. I can't vouch for other regions, but youth participation isn't an issue in the northeast. If you really want to see the game expand at the grassroots level, then I think the key might be more schools playing Division 1 college hockey. Less than half the Big 10 plays D1 hockey - Michigan, Michigan St., Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio State and Penn State. And the last two are relative newbs. Indiana, Purdue, Nebraska, Northwestern, Illinois, Iowa, Rutgers and Maryland do not play top level hockey. The conference will add Notre Dame to its hockey ranks in 2017-18 and there's talk Nebraska might step up (finally). Meanwhile Arizona State will become the first true NCAA D1 hockey program from a Pac-12 school this coming winter. Colorado, Utah, Oregon, Oregon St., Washington and Washington St. for some reason don't have D1 hockey programs. Not one school in the Big Sky plays D1 hockey and Air Force is the only Mountain West school that plays D1 hockey. That's where you need the growth if you a trickle down to youth hockey.

[Revering4Blue]

When I see Pittsburgh win, I think that it couod have been Portland's franchise. When they were bankrupt about 20 years ago, Paul Allen was ready to bring them to Portland and we had the arena, but the NHL said no. That's as close as we ever got to an NHL, MLB, or NFL franchise, and was probably our last chance.

That's because Gary Bettman isn't David Stern; he wants no part in uprooting a successful franchise. That stated, Portland seems like a good NHL -- and MLB market, for that matter -- market to me. The argument that Portland already has the Blazers and Timbers, therefore, the market is saturated, doesn't fly.

It's only a matter of time.

[M2]

That's because Gary Bettman isn't David Stern; he wants no part in uprooting a successful franchise. That stated, Portland seems like a good NHL -- and MLB market, for that matter -- market to me. The argument that Portland already has the Blazers and Timbers, therefore, the market is saturated, doesn't fly.

It's only a matter of time.

I wouldn't take a bet either way on Portland being able to sustain and NHL franchise along with the Blazers. Maybe it could, but I'd need to see a Vegas style season ticket pledge drive before I believed it. Same applies to Milwaukee (which is in hockey country, but the Bucks' presence has kept the NHL away). SLC is another NBA city that could possibly be a great/better fit the NHL. Yet Quebec City, Seattle and Kansas City (and perhaps Hamilton or even Albuquerque) seem to be at the front the line. Some of those might be landing spots for relocating franchises, but the list of options is deep enough that t's going to be tough to for an NBA city to jump that line.

[Kingspoint]

Thanks for sharing your ideas on making the NHL better. Glad that the populous in PA, NY, and NJ support youth hockey.

Hard to filter through my long-winded narratives to get to thoughts of interest, so I appreciate your taking the time and responding.

More professional franchises fail than succeed. The "If you build it, they will come" comment referred to youth facilities. Give kids a place to play and they'll fill it up.

[redrum]

Thanks for sharing your ideas on making the NHL better. Glad that the populous in PA, NY, and NJ support youth hockey.

Hard to filter through my long-winded narratives to get to thoughts of interest, so I appreciate your taking the time and responding.

More professional franchises fail than succeed. The "If you build it, they will come" comment referred to youth facilities. Give kids a place to play and they'll fill it up.

In general ice rinks hemorrhage money, which makes owning and operating one a losing proposition. The NHL franchises would not only have to pay to open, but also subsidize the operating cost in order to get the cost of youth hockey low enough for the masses. On top of that the equipment is rather expensive relative to other sports. Believe me I know, my son played hockey year round from kindergarten through high school. There is a reason that the colder weather locales produce more hockey players. Outside of northern states hockey in the US is primarily relegated to the middle to upper class that are willing to spend most of their free time running their kids to and from the rink.

[M2]

More professional franchises fail than succeed. The "If you build it, they will come" comment referred to youth facilities. Give kids a place to play and they'll fill it up.

My apologies. Misunderstood your gist on that one.

Generally I agree with that, though it's a high barrier of entry sport from a price perspective. Thrives in the burbs. Just curious, how common are community rinks in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois?

[Kingspoint]

In general ice rinks hemorrhage money, which makes owning and operating one a losing proposition. The NHL franchises would not only have to pay to open, but also subsidize the operating cost in order to get the cost of youth hockey low enough for the masses. On top of that the equipment is rather expensive relative to other sports. Believe me I know, my son played hockey year round from kindergarten through high school. There is a reason that the colder weather locales produce more hockey players. Outside of northern states hockey in the US is primarily relegated to the middle to upper class that are willing to spend most of their free time running their kids to and from the rink.

Which is why I proposed for the NHL, franchises and players foot the bill. Besides reaping the incredible goodwill, I think it's a low-cost investment for the return of raising the interest of hockey and the return support of fans from the U.S.

[Kingspoint]

My apologies. Misunderstood your gist on that one.

Generally I agree with that, though it's a high barrier of entry sport from a price perspective. Thrives in the burbs. Just curious, how common are community rinks in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois?

I'm from Portland, home of Lord Stanley Cup's first Champions, and previous home of the franchise known as the Chicago Blackhawks. I grew up around Hockey. The only year we had Hockey as a sanctioned High School sport, in '76-'77 (my Senior year and the same year the Blazers won the Title), we took second in State. My best friend was the Captain and leading scorer. Many of the players were from my core group of friends. I played Soccer and couldn't skate worth a lick. I'd play street hockey with another close friend from another school (he made it to AA foor the Brewers, but his arm blew out, then life kicked him in the teeth with an aggressive form of Alzheimer's at the age of 51). The Portland Buckaroos of the '60's were better than half of today's NHL teams. Some of them would come over to our house as my Dad knew them via the bar circuit. My Aunt was "the Cowbell Lady" during the 40's, 50's, 60's and until the franchise folded in the late '70's.

All of the ice-rinks folded, as you say. One re-opened. Hockey, as a game kids played disappeared. Portland's populace and personality all moved to the suburbs decades ago. Today's Portland is a mix of non-hockey fans transplanted from other States and countries. Minor League Hockey remains heavily supported by fans who live in the suburbs, but professional hockey lost it's opportunity here. If it's not a popular game to play as a kid, it's not going to maintain a steady fanbase through down times.

[redrum]

Which is why I proposed for the NHL, franchises and players foot the bill. Besides reaping the incredible goodwill, I think it's a low-cost investment for the return of raising the interest of hockey and the return support of fans from the U.S.

Gotcha. Sorry I was guilty of not reading past the 'have facilities built throughout these cities' part of your message. There is still the price of equipment obstacle - I was spent close to $400 a year on skates (2 pairs of stakes every year at $200 a pop) and more than that on sticks (he went through 6-7 sticks a year once he hit is teens). And I considered myself fortunate that my son never cared about having the best or it would have been twice that amount. I suppose the NHL could also subsidize that if they were willing. I think it is a great idea, but I'm not sure the NHL owners/players could be sold on it.

[Revering4Blue]

I wouldn't take a bet either way on Portland being able to sustain and NHL franchise along with the Blazers. Maybe it could, but I'd need to see a Vegas style season ticket pledge drive before I believed it. Same applies to Milwaukee (which is in hockey country, but the Bucks' presence has kept the NHL away). SLC is another NBA city that could possibly be a great/better fit the NHL. Yet Quebec City, Seattle and Kansas City (and perhaps Hamilton or even Albuquerque) seem to be at the front the line. Some of those might be landing spots for relocating franchises, but the list of options is deep enough that t's going to be tough to for an NBA city to jump that line.

Completely agree about Milwaukee. It's one thing to sell out the 10,000 capacity Mecca, as the Bucks did during their salad days. I believe that Milwaukeans like Pro basketball, love college basketball and love hockey. But it's too small of a market for MLB, NBA and NHL. In a perfect world, the Bucks franchise would be in Seattle, in a brand spankin' new arena and The Milwaukee Admirals - that was their IHL franchise - would operate as an NHL franchise.

Quebec City is another no-brainer.

Kansas City (Bring back the Scouts) also seems to be more of an NHL than NBA town. Unlike San Diego's former Pro Basketball franchises, which were clown shows - with the exception of the Rockets, who moved because the owner encountered tax problems and couldn't find a local buyer - the Kings were a well-run, competitive franchise that were not supported. Plus, there's a natural rivalry with St. Louis to tap into.

Seattle is a slam dunk - pardon the pun - for another NBA franchise. I doubt that Seattle can support five pro franchises. Unlike the NHL, I doubt that the NBA via expansion is eying small markets. Therefore, should they build arenas, former cities Seattle and San Diego seem much safer bets for NBA than NHL, but not both.

Phoenix doesn't draw well mainly due to the Glendale arena location. A new arena downtown to share with the Suns could do wonders, as Phoenix sports a large corporate base, which is a MUST.

As for relocation candidates:

Carolina's not going anywhere due to a large corporate base. I lived in RDU when the Canes moved to town. Contrary to popular belief, it's not Mayberry, and it would take two paragraphs to state all of the marketing mistakes that took place there.

Given the sweetheart deal with an arena they share with no one, I doubt the Panthers move.

IMHO, the most likely to move are Columbus and - you heard it here first - Anaheim, as the Honda Center is already obsolete by NHL standards.

[M2]

I'll be in shock if Arizona doesn't move in the next five years. They've got an out based on losing lots of money. If they didn't hit that target this year, they'll reach it next year.

[Revering4Blue]

I'll be in shock if Arizona doesn't move in the next five years. They've got an out based on losing lots of money. If they didn't hit that target this year, they'll reach it next year.

Well, there's still no concrete plan for a downtown Arena, so you may well be correct. A franchise originating in Canada possibly returning there. Ah, the irony.

[Kingspoint]

Yes. Somewhere in the state of Wisconsin there should be an NHL franchise. Natural rivalies any direction. Snow and ice are a part of life there.

[Joseph]

Andrew Shaw dealt to Montreal for 2 2nd round picks, giving the Hawks 3 second round picks which I expect end up as a first round pick somehow. Loved the kid, but the Hawks can't pay bottom 6 guys 4.5MM per season which was his reported asking price.

I love the NHL draft, so many trades usually.

[M2]

Pavel Datsyuk just got dealt to the Yotes. Speculation is the Wings will go all in on Stamkos.

[Joseph]

Pavel Datsyuk just got dealt to the Yotes. Speculation is the Wings will go all in on Stamkos.

As they should [that hurts to type as an anti-Wings guy] but Stamkos wearing the Winged Wheel would be huge for them. Either there or Toronto would reinforce old league money winning out over the southern invasion of new teams.

Personally I'd like to see him sign a 3 year deal in Chicago for 700k per. :)

[westofyou]

Wings need more stars, the brand demands it now, it's peak lagging and about to drop more unless this happens


No Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Joseph]

More American born players drafted in the first round than Canadian born players.

My how this sport has grown.

[M2]

More American born players drafted in the first round than Canadian born players.

My how this sport has grown.

4 BU players in the 1st round. I think I might be getting season tickets.

[M2]

Should have said the Yotes acquired Datsyuk's cap hit since he's going to play in Russia next year.

[Patrick Bateman]

Detroit got off the hook on that cheaply. Sounds like Arizona got their guy, but I have to think they did a bit of a gentleman a favour for Detroit on that one after Detroit got hosed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Tom Servo]

Nick Kypreos
@RealKyper

#Blockbuster @CanadiensMTL trade PK Subban to @PredsNHL for Shea Weber #wow @Sportsnet @NHL.

[M2]

I have no idea what the Canadiens are thinking. Weber's got 10 more years of an almost $8M cap hit and he creeping up on age 31. Meanwhile Subban will be a stud for the Preds.

Steve Stamkos re-signed with the Lightning. And the Oilers pulled off a coup getting the cornerstone D they've needed in Adam Larsson for Taylor Hall, who is soft like a jelly donut.

[IslandRed]

I have no idea what the Canadiens are thinking. Weber's got 10 more years of an almost $8M cap hit and he creeping up on age 31. Meanwhile Subban will be a stud for the Preds.

As a Preds fan, I like it. Of course, Weber has been the face of the franchise for awhile, so Casual Fan is up in arms right now, but they'll get over it.

One big contributing factor -- Subban was supposedly a few days away from a no-trade kicking in for the remainder of his deal. The Predators are taking on a slightly larger salary obligation overall (Weber's deal was frontloaded, so the Canadiens are taking on more cap hit than cash hit), but that's well worth it to get the younger player. I've also seen it argued that both players are going to a better system fit.

[Joseph]

As a Preds fan, I like it. Of course, Weber has been the face of the franchise for awhile, so Casual Fan is up in arms right now, but they'll get over it.

One big contributing factor -- Subban was supposedly a few days away from a no-trade kicking in for the remainder of his deal. The Predators are taking on a slightly larger salary obligation overall (Weber's deal was frontloaded, so the Canadiens are taking on more cap hit than cash hit), but that's well worth it to get the younger player. I've also seen it argued that both players are going to a better system fit.

There's also a massive cap recapture penalty if/when Weber retires, however that is the responsibility of the Preds instead of the Canadiens. Sometimes I'm glad there's no cap in baseball.

I think it's a good deal overall, Weber and Mtl are in 'win now' mode and the next few years with he and Price will be good. PK is a great player and he has the better long term ahead and I frankly am going to hate seeing him against my Hawks 5 times a season, but I also hated the big man.

Who becomes Captain now? Someone long term who is a bit younger like a Josi or Forsberg? Or do they reward a Mike Fisher?

[IslandRed]

No idea. If I was the coach I wouldn't name a captain for awhile. Wait and see who steps forward as a leader on his own and gets that kind of respect from his teammates.

[Kingspoint]

Nice contract for Columbus to lock up Seth Jones for 6 years at a reasonable rate.

[M2]

Weber and Mtl are in 'win now' mode and the next few years with he and Price will be good.

That team was pretty poor last season. Montreal fans are always pressing to win now, but another flop and that franchise is going to have to rebuild.

[Joseph]

That team was pretty poor last season. Montreal fans are always pressing to win now, but another flop and that franchise is going to have to rebuild.

Remember though, Price was out for much of the season and he's the best goaltender on the planet most nights. They started off winning 9 straight. Put him back in net and it's likely a very different season for the Habs.

[M2]

Remember though, Price was out for much of the season and he's the best goaltender on the planet most nights. They started off winning 9 straight. Put him back in net and it's likely a very different season for the Habs.

That's heavy lifting even for Price (and his health has become an issue). The Habs need some serious upgrades on the forward and defensive lines. Won't surprise me if they're looking to move Weber during the winter or next summer.

[Joseph]

That's heavy lifting even for Price (and his health has become an issue). The Habs need some serious upgrades on the forward and defensive lines. Won't surprise me if they're looking to move Weber during the winter or next summer.

Health is certainly an issue, especially after last year, but he still changes the complexion of that team a great deal. Weber could well be moved if they aren't doing well, but I don't think they'll do it in the first year [unless edmonton wants to unload some more young forward stars-in-the-making]. He cant risk having zero to show for PK.