Top Free Agents

Free agency is just days away and rumours are starting to swirl around who's going where. So it's time to break down the free agency market and see who's available and where they may possibly land.

Forwards:


Zach Parise

Likely the biggest name on the market this season. Chances are Parise will not resign with the New Jersey Devils. While Parise wants to remain loyal to his team it's looking like the financial trouble the Devils may be facing could scare him away. Parise is a complete package any team that is able to afford his price tag will instantly be made better. He never takes a shift off and was a born leader, leading the Devils to within 2 wins of a Stanley Cup. He's a brilliant forward who can put the puck in the net, forecheck hard and never disappoints on defence either.

The three teams in the front running are: Pittsburgh, Detroit and Minnesota. With Sidney Crosby rumoured to have agreed to a 12 year contract with the Penguins there is rumour Parise will be joining him in Pittsburgh as the two are good friends.


Alexander Semin
Semin is a hit and miss player, sometimes he's on fire and other times it's like he's not even on the ice. The Capitals and Semin have virtually parted ways so he will not be returning to his old team. There was some talk he might head over to the KHL but if he can get a team to throw him a large contract he will likely stay. Semin plays a very good offensive game but not a good defensive game. When the Capitals were firing on all cylinders Semin fit in and became one of the top scorers in the league. When the Capitals turned to a more defensive style he struggled and found himself on the bench more often than not.

He would benefit most by going to a team that needs scoring, perhaps the Montreal Canadiens.


Dustin Penner

When the Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup they had to give up certain players because they could no longer afford them. Just the same the Kings may have to start unloading some players one of them may be Penner. He's a curious case as he has the size, speed, skill and strength to be a successful NHL player but he scored just 7 goals all regular season. But despite his lack of success during the regular season Penner was a major contributor during the Kings Stanley Cup run much like he was for Anaheim in 2007.

After winning the cup in 2007 he signed by the Oilers but did not succeed in Edmonton. This time around he won't get signed for big money but might find a spot with the Calgary Flames. But if Penner doesn't mind taking a pay cut he could stay with the Kings.


Shane Doan
It would be shocking and painful for Coyotes fans not to see their captain back in the desert next season. He is the heart and soul of the team, the coyotes go as Doan goes and he was a major reason they made it all the way to the Western Conference Finals. But at 36 Doan is going to want to make a run at a Stanley Cup and may want to play in a market that is more hockey friendly.

He's a solid goal scorer (reaching the 30 goal mark twice) and a natural leader. If the Devils are unable to retain Parise look for them to take a hard run at Doan.


Brad Boyes
It wouldn't be a good post if it didn't have some sort of tie to the Sabres. Boyes is a player who puzzles me. He's got all the skill and scoring ability yet he is a 4th line player who rarely contributes to the success of the Sabres. Boyes would likely benefit from a change in scenery (and a new coach).

Right now he is dead weight for the Sabres and hopefully will not be resigned. He can still score some goals and would be a solid 20 goal scorer for a team that needs a little scoring boost for their back end. Look for him to meet with the Wild.

Defence


Ryan Suter
Like Parise, Suter is the biggest free agent defenceman available right now.
Suter showed great poise and was huge for the Predators all season including during their playoff run. Right now all eyes are on him so the ball is in his court he will likely head to a team that will utilize him as a number one defenceman.

Look for the Dallas Stars to pursue Suter and offer him a contract.


Bryan Allen
Allen is ranked or regarded as high as Suter but he is a solid defenceman that many teams could benefit from. He doesn't produce a lot of goals but he plays a steady defensive game.

If the Stars are unable to land Suter, look for them to pursue Allen.


Justin Shultz

If you have not heard of Justin Shultz stop reading this article and kindly stop calling yourself a hockey fan. Right now this kid is the hottest name around. Just about 29 teams are looking at. Shultz is playing the Brad Richards card having teams come to him instead of him going to them. The thing about him is he hasn't even played a game in the NHL as he is just coming out of the University of Wisconsin.

Whatever team does end up with the "highly ranked" prospect who skipped the draft will likely end up over paying due to how much interest there reportedly is. He will be a hit or miss prospect that will hopefully perform well for whatever team courts him.

The short list is down to 5 teams including: Toronto, Vancouver, New York Rangers, Edmonton and Ottawa.


Hal Gill
Hal Gill is a player I have always loved to watch play, right from his days in Toronto. Although he suffered an injury that cut his season short he still saw an improvement in his goals and point production this year with Nashville. He is expected to make a full recovery over the off season and be ready for training camp.

Look for the Predators to retain Gill, especially if they lose Suter. Note Hal Gill resigned a 2 year deal with the Predators worth $4 million.

Matt Carle
While Carle will test the free agency markets he will still keep a foot in the door with the Flyers. A very solid defenceman who will be sought after during free agency. But I wouldn't expect him to leave the Flyers.

Goalies:


Cory Schneider
Technically Cory Schneider is not a real free agent and the Canucks have to intention of letting him walk and he will be their starter next season. Schneider single out played world class goaltender Roberto Luongo for the starting job and as a result chased the veteran out of town.


With Scneider between the pipes the Canucks have a bright future and a clean slate, they can put all this Luongo drama behind them and run with the young goalie who has a bright future.

Note- Cory Schneider agreed to a 3 year deal worth $12 million with the Canucks. 


Martin Biron
Biron is one of the most valuable back up goalies in the league. If a teams starter goes down to injury Biron is more than able to step right in and carry the work load of the starter. He spent last season in New York backing up the king Henrik Lundqvist and while his stats are no where close to the starter he was still a very solid back up goalie.

The Rangers would like to maintain Biron's services next for next season, but if they don't offer him some decent money 29 other teams would be more than willing to give the 34 year old a shot.


Martin Brodeur
If Brodeur decides that he is able to come back and play another season in the NHL the New Jersey Devils would gladly welcome him back. His performance last season taking the Devils to within 2 games of a Stanley Cup didn't hurt his cause either. Although Brodeur is 40 now he has not slowed down much and can still outplay young goalies, just when you think he's getting old he makes an amazing save out of no where.

It is unlikely Brodeur will part ways with the Devils as he has played with them his hole career, so it's just a matter of time before he resigns with them to end off his career.


Scott Clemmensen
With such a dry goaltending market this off season Clemmensen may be able to find a team that wouldn't ordinarily need his services. He played in just 25 games last season and as a result his Goals Against Average was a little high, but it will likely come down with some more consistent playing time.

Clemmensen would be a solid cheap back up for any team especially a team who has a starter who is shaky or goes down to injury.

More interesting free agents to keep an eye out for: Ryan Smyth, Teemu Selanne, Jaromir Jagr, Ray Whitney and Paul Gaustad.

Also be on the lookout for deals the involve Rick Nash and Bobby Ryan.

Tune in July 1st to see where some of the big name free agents are heading.

Top Free Agents

Free agency is just days away and rumours are starting to swirl around who's going where. So it's time to break down the free agency market and see who's available and where they may possibly land.

Forwards:


Zach Parise

Likely the biggest name on the market this season. Chances are Parise will not resign with the New Jersey Devils. While Parise wants to remain loyal to his team it's looking like the financial trouble the Devils may be facing could scare him away. Parise is a complete package any team that is able to afford his price tag will instantly be made better. He never takes a shift off and was a born leader, leading the Devils to within 2 wins of a Stanley Cup. He's a brilliant forward who can put the puck in the net, forecheck hard and never disappoints on defence either.

The three teams in the front running are: Pittsburgh, Detroit and Minnesota. With Sidney Crosby rumoured to have agreed to a 12 year contract with the Penguins there is rumour Parise will be joining him in Pittsburgh as the two are good friends.


Alexander Semin
Semin is a hit and miss player, sometimes he's on fire and other times it's like he's not even on the ice. The Capitals and Semin have virtually parted ways so he will not be returning to his old team. There was some talk he might head over to the KHL but if he can get a team to throw him a large contract he will likely stay. Semin plays a very good offensive game but not a good defensive game. When the Capitals were firing on all cylinders Semin fit in and became one of the top scorers in the league. When the Capitals turned to a more defensive style he struggled and found himself on the bench more often than not.

He would benefit most by going to a team that needs scoring, perhaps the Montreal Canadiens.


Dustin Penner

When the Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup they had to give up certain players because they could no longer afford them. Just the same the Kings may have to start unloading some players one of them may be Penner. He's a curious case as he has the size, speed, skill and strength to be a successful NHL player but he scored just 7 goals all regular season. But despite his lack of success during the regular season Penner was a major contributor during the Kings Stanley Cup run much like he was for Anaheim in 2007.

After winning the cup in 2007 he signed by the Oilers but did not succeed in Edmonton. This time around he won't get signed for big money but might find a spot with the Calgary Flames. But if Penner doesn't mind taking a pay cut he could stay with the Kings.


Shane Doan
It would be shocking and painful for Coyotes fans not to see their captain back in the desert next season. He is the heart and soul of the team, the coyotes go as Doan goes and he was a major reason they made it all the way to the Western Conference Finals. But at 36 Doan is going to want to make a run at a Stanley Cup and may want to play in a market that is more hockey friendly.

He's a solid goal scorer (reaching the 30 goal mark twice) and a natural leader. If the Devils are unable to retain Parise look for them to take a hard run at Doan.


Brad Boyes
It wouldn't be a good post if it didn't have some sort of tie to the Sabres. Boyes is a player who puzzles me. He's got all the skill and scoring ability yet he is a 4th line player who rarely contributes to the success of the Sabres. Boyes would likely benefit from a change in scenery (and a new coach).

Right now he is dead weight for the Sabres and hopefully will not be resigned. He can still score some goals and would be a solid 20 goal scorer for a team that needs a little scoring boost for their back end. Look for him to meet with the Wild.

Defence


Ryan Suter
Like Parise, Suter is the biggest free agent defenceman available right now.
Suter showed great poise and was huge for the Predators all season including during their playoff run. Right now all eyes are on him so the ball is in his court he will likely head to a team that will utilize him as a number one defenceman.

Look for the Dallas Stars to pursue Suter and offer him a contract.


Bryan Allen
Allen is ranked or regarded as high as Suter but he is a solid defenceman that many teams could benefit from. He doesn't produce a lot of goals but he plays a steady defensive game.

If the Stars are unable to land Suter, look for them to pursue Allen.


Justin Shultz

If you have not heard of Justin Shultz stop reading this article and kindly stop calling yourself a hockey fan. Right now this kid is the hottest name around. Just about 29 teams are looking at. Shultz is playing the Brad Richards card having teams come to him instead of him going to them. The thing about him is he hasn't even played a game in the NHL as he is just coming out of the University of Wisconsin.

Whatever team does end up with the "highly ranked" prospect who skipped the draft will likely end up over paying due to how much interest there reportedly is. He will be a hit or miss prospect that will hopefully perform well for whatever team courts him.

The short list is down to 5 teams including: Toronto, Vancouver, New York Rangers, Edmonton and Ottawa.


Hal Gill
Hal Gill is a player I have always loved to watch play, right from his days in Toronto. Although he suffered an injury that cut his season short he still saw an improvement in his goals and point production this year with Nashville. He is expected to make a full recovery over the off season and be ready for training camp.

Look for the Predators to retain Gill, especially if they lose Suter. Note Hal Gill resigned a 2 year deal with the Predators worth $4 million.

Matt Carle
While Carle will test the free agency markets he will still keep a foot in the door with the Flyers. A very solid defenceman who will be sought after during free agency. But I wouldn't expect him to leave the Flyers.

Goalies:


Cory Schneider
Technically Cory Schneider is not a real free agent and the Canucks have to intention of letting him walk and he will be their starter next season. Schneider single out played world class goaltender Roberto Luongo for the starting job and as a result chased the veteran out of town.


With Scneider between the pipes the Canucks have a bright future and a clean slate, they can put all this Luongo drama behind them and run with the young goalie who has a bright future.

Note- Cory Schneider agreed to a 3 year deal worth $12 million with the Canucks. 


Martin Biron
Biron is one of the most valuable back up goalies in the league. If a teams starter goes down to injury Biron is more than able to step right in and carry the work load of the starter. He spent last season in New York backing up the king Henrik Lundqvist and while his stats are no where close to the starter he was still a very solid back up goalie.

The Rangers would like to maintain Biron's services next for next season, but if they don't offer him some decent money 29 other teams would be more than willing to give the 34 year old a shot.


Martin Brodeur
If Brodeur decides that he is able to come back and play another season in the NHL the New Jersey Devils would gladly welcome him back. His performance last season taking the Devils to within 2 games of a Stanley Cup didn't hurt his cause either. Although Brodeur is 40 now he has not slowed down much and can still outplay young goalies, just when you think he's getting old he makes an amazing save out of no where.

It is unlikely Brodeur will part ways with the Devils as he has played with them his hole career, so it's just a matter of time before he resigns with them to end off his career.


Scott Clemmensen
With such a dry goaltending market this off season Clemmensen may be able to find a team that wouldn't ordinarily need his services. He played in just 25 games last season and as a result his Goals Against Average was a little high, but it will likely come down with some more consistent playing time.

Clemmensen would be a solid cheap back up for any team especially a team who has a starter who is shaky or goes down to injury.

More interesting free agents to keep an eye out for: Ryan Smyth, Teemu Selanne, Jaromir Jagr, Ray Whitney and Paul Gaustad.

Also be on the lookout for deals the involve Rick Nash and Bobby Ryan.

Tune in July 1st to see where some of the big name free agents are heading.

2012 HHOF Inductees

Apart from winning the Stanley Cup one of the great honours for a hockey player is to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame after they retire from the great game. Forever having you name etched into the Hall of Fame for generations of people to see, being known as a legend and a hero to young hockey fans. For 4 players their dreams came true on Tuesday: Mats Sundin, Joe Sakic, Adam Oates and Pavel Bure were all elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Mats Sundin
Let's start with a guy I actually got to see play. Growing up in Toronto everything is about the Leafs so when I began watching hockey I fell in love with Sundin. I loved the way he played the game and to me as a little kid he was a fantastic captain, and a true captain. Perhaps an ever rarer feat is getting voted into the Hall as a first timer, Sundin was voted into the Hall in his first eligible year. He retired after the 2008-2009 season and becomes the first player to end his career as a Canuck and be inducted into the Hall. While Sundin failed to raise Lord Stanley he was a legendary Toronto Maple Leafs. He played 13 seasons with the buds and was the captain from 1997-2008. He still holds franchise records in goals (420), assists by a forward (567) and total points (987). Despite failing to win a Stanley Cup, Sundin was the face of the Leafs franchise and a beloved captain.

"I think you have to be part of the Toronto Maple Leafs to understand the importance of the team for the city of Toronto," Sundin said. "It took a little while to learn that and also to understand the pressure to be a Toronto Maple Leafs player and coach and management, to live with that. The whole city lives and breathes the Toronto Maple Leafs. The longer you're there, you appreciate it more and you understand it's bigger than just trying to be a player. It was certainly the best time of my life.

While his NHL career was not overly successful (not Stanley Cup) he made up for it with his International play. He played 14 tournaments for team Sweden and won a gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Sundin was also the first European player to be drafted first overall in 1989 by Quebec and was the first Swedish player to record 1000 points.

He played 18 seasons in the NHL and tallied 564 goals, 785 assists and 1,349 points in 1,346 games. Sundin also had the pleasure of seeing his jersey #13 raised to the rafters of the ACC and honoured by the Toronto Maple Leafs. It will be a long while before the Leafs have another captain like Sundin. Sundin may go down as one of the best players to play that never won a Stanley Cup.

Joe Sakic

Perhaps one of the greatest players to ever lace up the skates. Sakic won just about every major awards a hockey player can, including 2 Stanley Cups (1996, 2001), the Hart Trophy, the Conn Smythe trophy, the Lady Byng trophy and an Olympic Gold medal in 2002. He played all 20 NHL seasons with the Quebec Nordics/Colorado Avalanche franchise and still holds the franchise records for: goals (625), Assists (1,016) and points (1,641).

Like Sundin, Sakic was also a first year eligible nominee, but was considered a shoo-in by many. In addition to his two Stanley Cup wins, Sakic won the World Junior Championships, the World Championships, the World Cup and an Olympic Gold Medal.

In his 20 seasons with the Avalanche organization Sakic captained the team for 16 seasons and his the 2nd longest serving captain in NHL history. Sakic had an amazing and historic run in the NHL, and is very worthy of his election into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Adam Oates
Being elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame is a huge honour for any player, so you have to think Oates was having  a pretty good day when he got the call from the Hall. But if you can imagine his day got even better as he was also named the head coach of the Washington Capitals. Not a bad day eh?

"Obviously it's a fantastic day," Oates said. "I don't know if that has ever happened before.  I gotta go out and play lotto."

Oates has never won a Stanley Cup, he came close mere months ago as an assistant coach with the New Jersey Devils but will now have the opportunity to do so with Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals.

Oates had a 19 year NHL career which saw him split time between the Red Wings, Bruins, Capitals, Flyers, Ducks and Oilers. He was known for his passing skills and credits his parents for teaching him to be an unselfish athlete so he was able to develop the willingness to pass. Oates finished his career 6th all time in the NHL with 1,079 assists in addition to his assists he added 341 goals for 1,420 points.

One of the things NHL scouts look for in a prospect is size, in Oates draft year he wasn't very big and was passed on in the NHL. Instead he went to the NCAA were he won a NCAA division 1 championship in 1985.

"I was kind of a late-bloomer," Oates said. "When the scouts look at the draft, they look at the big kids. I was a small kid, a late-bloomer that slipped through the cracks. It allowed me to go to college, and then came that second wave of guys that got signed. I got to play 19 years in this League, and I'm very fortunate."

Pavel Bure

After defecting with his family Bure joined the Vancouver Canucks and won the Calder trophy in 1992. He was limited to just 12 NHL seasons due to knee injuries but Bure made the most of his time in the NHL. Scoring 60 goals twice and scoring (59 and 58) in two other seasons in his 702 NHL games. He averaged 36.7 goals per season and was able to record 779 points.

One man who played a part in three of the inductees careers Pat Quinn was quite proud:

"It's just incredible, really," Quinn said. "Having been around Pavel and Mats, and then also Joe on the Canadian teams, it's been such a privilege for me as a coach and hockey person. I watched them perform at such high levels all the time. I watched Pavel grow as a 20-year-old and become one of the brightest starts in the game. Mats was truly one of the great captains. With Joe, he was just spectacular in 2002. He was such a privilege to be around. He was a key leader for us. We wouldn't have a gold medal but for his accomplishments. "I am proud today. It's a good day for me as well."

Congratulations to Mats Sundin, Joe Sakic, Adam Oates and Pavel Bure. These four men now have their names permanently engraved in history at the Hockey Hall of Fame. I look forward to seeing these legendary players in the Hall next time I'm there.

2012 HHOF Inductees

Apart from winning the Stanley Cup one of the great honours for a hockey player is to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame after they retire from the great game. Forever having you name etched into the Hall of Fame for generations of people to see, being known as a legend and a hero to young hockey fans. For 4 players their dreams came true on Tuesday: Mats Sundin, Joe Sakic, Adam Oates and Pavel Bure were all elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Mats Sundin
Let's start with a guy I actually got to see play. Growing up in Toronto everything is about the Leafs so when I began watching hockey I fell in love with Sundin. I loved the way he played the game and to me as a little kid he was a fantastic captain, and a true captain. Perhaps an ever rarer feat is getting voted into the Hall as a first timer, Sundin was voted into the Hall in his first eligible year. He retired after the 2008-2009 season and becomes the first player to end his career as a Canuck and be inducted into the Hall. While Sundin failed to raise Lord Stanley he was a legendary Toronto Maple Leafs. He played 13 seasons with the buds and was the captain from 1997-2008. He still holds franchise records in goals (420), assists by a forward (567) and total points (987). Despite failing to win a Stanley Cup, Sundin was the face of the Leafs franchise and a beloved captain.

"I think you have to be part of the Toronto Maple Leafs to understand the importance of the team for the city of Toronto," Sundin said. "It took a little while to learn that and also to understand the pressure to be a Toronto Maple Leafs player and coach and management, to live with that. The whole city lives and breathes the Toronto Maple Leafs. The longer you're there, you appreciate it more and you understand it's bigger than just trying to be a player. It was certainly the best time of my life.

While his NHL career was not overly successful (not Stanley Cup) he made up for it with his International play. He played 14 tournaments for team Sweden and won a gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Sundin was also the first European player to be drafted first overall in 1989 by Quebec and was the first Swedish player to record 1000 points.

He played 18 seasons in the NHL and tallied 564 goals, 785 assists and 1,349 points in 1,346 games. Sundin also had the pleasure of seeing his jersey #13 raised to the rafters of the ACC and honoured by the Toronto Maple Leafs. It will be a long while before the Leafs have another captain like Sundin. Sundin may go down as one of the best players to play that never won a Stanley Cup.

Joe Sakic

Perhaps one of the greatest players to ever lace up the skates. Sakic won just about every major awards a hockey player can, including 2 Stanley Cups (1996, 2001), the Hart Trophy, the Conn Smythe trophy, the Lady Byng trophy and an Olympic Gold medal in 2002. He played all 20 NHL seasons with the Quebec Nordics/Colorado Avalanche franchise and still holds the franchise records for: goals (625), Assists (1,016) and points (1,641).

Like Sundin, Sakic was also a first year eligible nominee, but was considered a shoo-in by many. In addition to his two Stanley Cup wins, Sakic won the World Junior Championships, the World Championships, the World Cup and an Olympic Gold Medal.

In his 20 seasons with the Avalanche organization Sakic captained the team for 16 seasons and his the 2nd longest serving captain in NHL history. Sakic had an amazing and historic run in the NHL, and is very worthy of his election into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Adam Oates
Being elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame is a huge honour for any player, so you have to think Oates was having  a pretty good day when he got the call from the Hall. But if you can imagine his day got even better as he was also named the head coach of the Washington Capitals. Not a bad day eh?

"Obviously it's a fantastic day," Oates said. "I don't know if that has ever happened before.  I gotta go out and play lotto."

Oates has never won a Stanley Cup, he came close mere months ago as an assistant coach with the New Jersey Devils but will now have the opportunity to do so with Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals.

Oates had a 19 year NHL career which saw him split time between the Red Wings, Bruins, Capitals, Flyers, Ducks and Oilers. He was known for his passing skills and credits his parents for teaching him to be an unselfish athlete so he was able to develop the willingness to pass. Oates finished his career 6th all time in the NHL with 1,079 assists in addition to his assists he added 341 goals for 1,420 points.

One of the things NHL scouts look for in a prospect is size, in Oates draft year he wasn't very big and was passed on in the NHL. Instead he went to the NCAA were he won a NCAA division 1 championship in 1985.

"I was kind of a late-bloomer," Oates said. "When the scouts look at the draft, they look at the big kids. I was a small kid, a late-bloomer that slipped through the cracks. It allowed me to go to college, and then came that second wave of guys that got signed. I got to play 19 years in this League, and I'm very fortunate."

Pavel Bure

After defecting with his family Bure joined the Vancouver Canucks and won the Calder trophy in 1992. He was limited to just 12 NHL seasons due to knee injuries but Bure made the most of his time in the NHL. Scoring 60 goals twice and scoring (59 and 58) in two other seasons in his 702 NHL games. He averaged 36.7 goals per season and was able to record 779 points.

One man who played a part in three of the inductees careers Pat Quinn was quite proud:

"It's just incredible, really," Quinn said. "Having been around Pavel and Mats, and then also Joe on the Canadian teams, it's been such a privilege for me as a coach and hockey person. I watched them perform at such high levels all the time. I watched Pavel grow as a 20-year-old and become one of the brightest starts in the game. Mats was truly one of the great captains. With Joe, he was just spectacular in 2002. He was such a privilege to be around. He was a key leader for us. We wouldn't have a gold medal but for his accomplishments. "I am proud today. It's a good day for me as well."

Congratulations to Mats Sundin, Joe Sakic, Adam Oates and Pavel Bure. These four men now have their names permanently engraved in history at the Hockey Hall of Fame. I look forward to seeing these legendary players in the Hall next time I'm there.

Trading Places

With the draft complete and free agency right around the corner teams are starting to get active on the trading block. 2 major moves have already taken place: Toronto Maple Leafs traded Luke Schenn to the Flyers in exchange for James van Riemsdyk. The Pittsburgh Penguins also made a major splash at the draft when they sent Jordan Staal to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Brandon Sutter, Brian Dumoulin and the 8th overall pick in the draft which was used to select Derrick Pouliot.

Luke Schenn trade:

The Toronto Maple Leafs under the reign of Brian Burke once again failed to make the playoffs last season something GM Burke has said himself is not good enough. Next season could be Burke's last chance to get the Leafs to the postseason, so many were expecting him to make some major trades. He's already made 2 moves and free agency hasn't even begun yet: Trading Luke Schenn to the Flyers and sending the rights to Jonas Gustavsson to the Winnipeg Jets.

After the Leafs drafted Morgan Reilly with their pick in the first round, many speculated the pick made current Leafs defenceman Luke Schenn expendable. There has been speculation since the beginning of last season that Schenn's days in Toronto may have been numbered. He's a solid defenceman but was just unable to flourish with the buds. Burke managed to pull off a trade that will unite the Schenn brothers in Philadelphia and give the Leafs a exciting young player.

Van Riemsdyk brings a big physical aspect to the Leafs who were lacking in toughness in their top 6. At 6"3 203 pounds he will be a force to be reckoned with and isn't afraid to use his size when needs it. He's a big forward who can play centre when needed and most importantly can put the puck in the net, he just wasn't able to flourish with the Flyers. He is a former 2nd overall draft pick (2007) so he has the skill and potential that the Leafs are looking for. The only problem is the baggage he brings: He tends to be injury prone. He missed the majority of last season with a concussion, he suffered a rib cartilage injury, a hip injury and I believe he needs foot surgery to fully repair a broken bone in his foot. But he is big tough forward who isn't afraid to block shots, the exact player Brian Burke is after.

Jordan Staal trade:


The Jordan Staal trade was something that was going to happen sooner or later, the Penguins chose sooner. Less than 24 hours after Staal turned down a 10 year $60 million contract the Pens had worked out a deal that would send Jordan to play alongside his brother Eric in Carolina, something that was important for both brothers. Jordan had come out and said he wanted to play with his brother and he got his wish.

Due to the skill on the Penguins roster (Crosby and Malkin) Staal was doomed to spend his entire career as a 3rd line centre, but he is much better than a 3rd line centre and deserves a chance to be a number one or number 2 centre. He will likely fill the 2nd line centre role in Carolina behind his brother Eric who is the number one centre.

Jordan completed his 6th season in the NHL and with the Penguins and set career highs in assists (25) and points (50) despite only playing in 62 games. He has already won a Stanley Cup with the Penguins and will now have an opportunity to win a Cup alongside his brother.

One other trade:


One of the more interesting trades in regards that it came out of no where was the Dallas Stars trading Mike Ribeiro to the Washington Capitals in exchange for Cody Eakin and a draft pick. A odd trade, Ribeiro has been on the trading block for the last 2 seasons but no one has bitten, while Eakin is thought to be an unproven prospect. Only time will tell who got the better deal.

Trading Places

With the draft complete and free agency right around the corner teams are starting to get active on the trading block. 2 major moves have already taken place: Toronto Maple Leafs traded Luke Schenn to the Flyers in exchange for James van Riemsdyk. The Pittsburgh Penguins also made a major splash at the draft when they sent Jordan Staal to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Brandon Sutter, Brian Dumoulin and the 8th overall pick in the draft which was used to select Derrick Pouliot.

Luke Schenn trade:

The Toronto Maple Leafs under the reign of Brian Burke once again failed to make the playoffs last season something GM Burke has said himself is not good enough. Next season could be Burke's last chance to get the Leafs to the postseason, so many were expecting him to make some major trades. He's already made 2 moves and free agency hasn't even begun yet: Trading Luke Schenn to the Flyers and sending the rights to Jonas Gustavsson to the Winnipeg Jets.

After the Leafs drafted Morgan Reilly with their pick in the first round, many speculated the pick made current Leafs defenceman Luke Schenn expendable. There has been speculation since the beginning of last season that Schenn's days in Toronto may have been numbered. He's a solid defenceman but was just unable to flourish with the buds. Burke managed to pull off a trade that will unite the Schenn brothers in Philadelphia and give the Leafs a exciting young player.

Van Riemsdyk brings a big physical aspect to the Leafs who were lacking in toughness in their top 6. At 6"3 203 pounds he will be a force to be reckoned with and isn't afraid to use his size when needs it. He's a big forward who can play centre when needed and most importantly can put the puck in the net, he just wasn't able to flourish with the Flyers. He is a former 2nd overall draft pick (2007) so he has the skill and potential that the Leafs are looking for. The only problem is the baggage he brings: He tends to be injury prone. He missed the majority of last season with a concussion, he suffered a rib cartilage injury, a hip injury and I believe he needs foot surgery to fully repair a broken bone in his foot. But he is big tough forward who isn't afraid to block shots, the exact player Brian Burke is after.

Jordan Staal trade:


The Jordan Staal trade was something that was going to happen sooner or later, the Penguins chose sooner. Less than 24 hours after Staal turned down a 10 year $60 million contract the Pens had worked out a deal that would send Jordan to play alongside his brother Eric in Carolina, something that was important for both brothers. Jordan had come out and said he wanted to play with his brother and he got his wish.

Due to the skill on the Penguins roster (Crosby and Malkin) Staal was doomed to spend his entire career as a 3rd line centre, but he is much better than a 3rd line centre and deserves a chance to be a number one or number 2 centre. He will likely fill the 2nd line centre role in Carolina behind his brother Eric who is the number one centre.

Jordan completed his 6th season in the NHL and with the Penguins and set career highs in assists (25) and points (50) despite only playing in 62 games. He has already won a Stanley Cup with the Penguins and will now have an opportunity to win a Cup alongside his brother.

One other trade:


One of the more interesting trades in regards that it came out of no where was the Dallas Stars trading Mike Ribeiro to the Washington Capitals in exchange for Cody Eakin and a draft pick. A odd trade, Ribeiro has been on the trading block for the last 2 seasons but no one has bitten, while Eakin is thought to be an unproven prospect. Only time will tell who got the better deal.

2012 NHL Draft First Round

The NHL Entry Draft took place on Friday night in Pittsburgh and it was everything fans could have wanted. There were trades, unsuspected draft picks and lots of boo's from the Penguins fans. In all honesty what could be better than moms crying tears of happiness and proud fathers hugging their sons after getting drafted? One things for sure this is a night these young kids will never forget!

So time to break down the first round draft picks:

1. Edmonton Oilers- Nail Yakupov

This was a bit of a strange pick for the Oilers, honestly they didn't need another forward. They already have Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Jordan Eberle. But with their 3rd straight first overall pick the Edmonton Oilers selected Sarnia Sting forward Nail Yakupov. There's no question Yakupov is a star player who wouldn't have fallen out of the top 5 but many including myself thought the Oilers would go in the direction of a defenceman. It will be interesting to see if the Oilers will be able to make the playoffs with exuberance of forwards or will fall just short after not fixing up their back end.

2. Columbus Blue Jackets- Ryan Murray
The defenceman many thought the Oilers would be thinking about ends up going to the Blue Jackets. Good draft pick by the Blue Jackets but maybe a bit of a sad thing for Murray. Jokes immediately surfaced on twitter on how long it would take before Murray demanded a trade out of Columbus. Murray is hands down the best defenceman this draft had to offer.

3. Montreal Canadiens- Alex Galchenyuk
This could easily be the best pick from the entire draft, despite missing all but 2 games this season Galchenyuk has a lot of upside. If he had been healthy the entire season many believe he could have challenged Yakupov for the first overall pick, but due to the injury he dropped down to 6 on most rankings. Solid pick by the Canadiens by selecting Galchenyuk

4. New York Islanders- Griffen Reinhart
This pick really surprised, not that Reinhart isn't a very skilled player but him going 4th overall is a bit much in my opinion. Many including myself had him down around 12th (possibly going to Buffalo) so him going 4th was a bit of a shock to the system. Reinhart is a solid player and the 3rd member of his family to enter in the NHL and by far the highest pick of the family. He's got a fantastic shot and can hopefully help the Islanders finally get over the hump.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs- Morgan Rielly
This pick surprised a lot of people as the Leafs didn't need a defenceman they needed a forward, and at 5th in the draft there is a plethora of forwards available to choose. But Burke true to character surprised and frustrated "Leafsnation" by draft Rielly. But the angle the fans should be looking at: Does Luke Schenn now become expendable? It's well documented that the Leafs are in the Luongo sweepstakes Luke Schenn would be a solid bargaining tool. The Leafs got a solid 2 way defenceman who much like Phaneuf likes to skate with the puck.

6. Anaheim Ducks- Hampus Lindholm
Lindholm had the best conditioning of all the draft picks, but I really don't know much about Lindholm.  But I do know in The Hockey Writers Mock Draft we had him going at 23, so this was a shock. But obviously the Ducks saw something no one else did. Lindholm will need some time to adjust and learn the North American style of hockey.

7. Minnesota Wild- Matthew Dumba
Another solid defenceman taken in the top 10. Many thought Burke may go after Dumba who has great agility and speed.

8. Pittsburgh Penguins- Derrick Pouliot
One of the best defenceman in the draft. He is one of the most complete players available who has amazing strength.  Pouliot will likely need a few more years to develop but once he does, look out!

9. Winnipeg Jets- Jacob Trouba
In all likely hood Trouba's game will likely become a more defencive style in the NHL, but he has the opportunity to put up some offencive numbers to boot. He's a solid 2 way defenceman who skates smoothly and has all the defencive skills ready to become an NHL blueliner. Solid pick by the Jets with lots of potential.

10. Tampa Bay Lightning- Slater Koekkoek
This pick was complete surprise and came out of no where, in the rankings and the Mock Draft we had Koekkoek going as low as 21st, so to see him in the top 10 was shocking. But he is a truly gifted offensive player. Koekkoek had his junior season cut short due to a shoulder injury but is in no means a liability, he's a very coachable kid and makes himself a student of the game. He is likely several years away as he still needs to learn to play a complete defencive game.

11. Washington Capitals- Filip Forsberg
Forsberg dropping out of the top 10 was a huge surprise many had him as high as third overall. But he is one of arguably the most complete forwards in the draft and offers a huge bonus by being able to play both centre and wing. Forsberg is practically the complete package, he's big, tough, has excellent hockey IQ and has excellent puck handling skills. The Capitals got a steal at 11.

12. Buffalo Sabres- Mikhail Grigorenko

My favorite pick from the entire first round, couldn't be happier the Sabres were able to get Grigorenko  and they didn't have to move up to get him either. Many including myself thought he would be off the board by the time the Sabres got their pick at 12, but he was almost the perfect player for the Sabres. In every draft preview I did (that was Sabres related) I suggested the Sabres trading picks and a player to move up and get their hands on Grigorenko. He's a big solid centre who should be able to step right into the NHL as early as next season and could one day become the Sabres number 1 centre. The Sabres could have stopped drafting right here and I would have been perfectly happy.


13. Dallas Stars- Radek Faksa
A solid centre but likely 2-3 years away from a permanent stay in the NHL. Quite surprised he was still available at 13th overall but will turn into a solid centre in a couple of years only thing lacking is his size.

14. Buffalo Sabres- Zemgus Girgensons
Another first round pick for the Sabres and yet another centre. What did the Buffalo Sabres need going into the draft/free agency? Centres especially one that can turn into a number centre. While Girgensons likely won't become a number one centre he would be a perfect fit on the second or third line in Buffalo. Unlike Grigorenko, Girgensons still needs some time to develop and grow into his 6 foot 2 198 pound frame and possible get bigger. But another solid pick from Buffalo.

15. Ottawa Senators- Cody Ceci
This ones tough as I really wanted the Sabres to go after him at 12th and really really wanted them to go after Ceci at 14th but they didn't really need a defenceman. So the Senators got one of the best defenceman in the draft. Cody Ceci will turn into a solid defenceman and may be ready to step into the NHL as early as October. All I can say is I am slightly jealous the Senators got Ceci.

16. Washington Capitals- Thomas Wilson
Yet another team that was able to nab 2 first round draft picks, so with their second pick the Capitals went after Thomas Wilson. I am a little surprised Wilson went as high as he did as he was ranked near the bottom 5 in the first round, but teams can always use a little more grit. Wilson strikes me as a typical 3rd line centre, likes to play a rough physical game but is more than capable of putting up solid offencive numbers when paired will skilled line mates. The closest comparison to Wilson would be Boston Bruins Milan Lucic, if he develops into even half the player Lucic is the Capitals may have discovered a very solid 3rd liner.

17. San Jose Sharks- Tomas Hertl
I don't have much to say about Hertl as most of the rankings/mock drafts I looked at didn't have him going in the first round. But he looks to be another solid centre, in a draft filled with defenceman it is tough to pick a centre. He will still need some time to develop his game and improve his skating but he should turn into a solid NHL player.

18. Chicago Blackhawks- Teuvo Teravainen
Teravainen is an exceptional talent who proved in his rookie season that he is up to the task of being a top player. He will need more time to develop his game and become more mature, it would benefit him to come over to North America to adjust to the type of game played in the NHL.


19. Tampa Bay Lightning- Andrei Vasilevski
The top goalie taken in the draft, and one of the best. Vasilevski made a name for himself in the World Juniors when he played for Russian and finished the tournament for a 2.01 GAA and .953 Save percentage. He's a very athletic goalie and has amazing hockey IQ and will surely be the starter in the future for the Russia Junior team. He will need time to develop his game (as most goaltenders do) but could turn into the next Lightning starter in a few years.

20. Philadelphia Flyers- Scott Laughton
Laughton is one of the most complete centres in the draft and had the potential to move up in the draft. He will likely develop into a power forward, he's exceptional in the face off circles. He has the potential to be a point per game type of player as he showed at the U-18 tournament.

21. Calgary Flames- Mark Jankowski
This was a very strange draft pick as the Flames actually traded down to acquire this pick and then take a player completely off the board. This is a high gamble pick for the flames as Jankowski is still in high school and is just 17! But despite being such a young kid, he plays with the puck like a seasoned veteran.

22. Pittsburgh Penguins- Olli Maatta
I am extremely surprised that Maatta fell this far as he was ranked just outside the top 10 (15ht). Have you heard of Erik Karlsson? Well this guy could turn into a clone of Karlsson as a solid 2 way defenceman. His strengths come through mainly in his skating and passing but he showed this season in the OHL that he is able to score goals and put points on the board.

23. Florida Panthers- Michael Matheson
Another pick that was "off the board". Matheson likely wont make an impact with the Panthers right away as he is commited to Boston College for his future. Despite him not being that well known he has the potential to become a solid player.

24. Boston Bruins- Malcolm Subban

Adding more feul to the Habs vs Bruins rivalry, like they needed anymore? The Bruins have drafted P.K Subban's little brother Malcolm, and he is no longer just P.Ks little brother. Once Malcolm does make it to the NHL (could be a few years) watching him and his brother battle it out will be quite something to watch. But Malcolm has one up on P.K as he was drafted much higher than his older brother. But with whats unfolding in Boston, the Bruins may need a backup for Tukka Rask.

25. St. Louis Blues- Jordan Schmaltz
Another unknown pick who came out of nowhere, Schmaltz like several other players in the draft is coming out of the USHL. Schmaltz is thought of as a "project" player, a high risk that may not turn out.  He is committed to the University of North Dakota. Will be interesting to see his development in the next few years.

26. Vancouver Canucks- Brendan Gaunce
Another pick that I am very surprised fell this low as I was looking into him potentially going to the Sabres at 12th overall. He led his Belleville Bulls with 68 points and has the potential to become a power forward.

27. Phoenix Coyotes- Henrik Samuelsson
Samuelsson's got people attention with his play in the WHL and at the WJC. His draft rose dramatically and ultimately got him into the first round.

28. New York Rangers- Brady Skjei
Skjei is an imposing defenseman who continued to grow this season and has been climbing the charts as well. For a big player, Skjei is tremendously mobile and his high-end skating ability allows him to work in transition and handle incoming forechecks. He’s still got a raw skill-set and is learning how to use his size effectively, but the Minnesota commit has an enticing skill-set that projects well at the NHL level. At this point, Skjei has to be considered to be the 2012 edition of the NTDP’s Connor Murphy, and we’ll see how he plays over the coming months as he makes a final push up the charts.”


29. New Jersey Devils- Stefan Matteau
Matteau is thought of to be one of the safer picks in the draft and because of that he was taken in the first round. But he is a very skilled two way player.


30. Los Angeles Kings- Tanner Pearson
This may have been the most shocking player that got drafted in the first round, he went from an "Unknown" to a first round draft pick. It was tough for Pearson who broke his leg right before the start of the playoffs, but he did enough in the regular season to convince the Kings he was worth the Gamble.


This draft has been one of the most unpredictable drafts of late, even inside the top 5 there was little parody. Some had Yakupov 1st while others had Murray going 1st. Some had Grigorenko in the top 5 and some had Griffen Reinhart outside the top 10. But each team seemed to have their own rankings. 


Trades


Pittsburgh Penguins dealt Jordan Staal to Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for 2012 first round pick, prospect Brandon Sutter and Brian Dumoulin.
This was a big trade and pretty much a crucial move by the Penguins. After Jordan Staal turned down a 10 year 60 million dollar deal it was clear he wasn't keen on stay long term with the Penguins as a third line centre. To be honest he is too good to be a third line centre and deserves a chance to be a 2nd or 1st line centre and opportunity he will get with the Hurricanes. 
This move will give Jordan and his brother Eric a chance to play together which is exactly what they wanted. 


Washington Capitals dealt Semyon Varlamov to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for their first pick in 2012 and their 2nd round pick in 2013

Calgary trades their 14th pick to Buffalo in exchange for Buffalo's 21st pick in round 1 and their 42nd pick in the 2nd round


Tampa Bay deal Kyle Quincey to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for the Wings first round pick and Sebastien Piche.

2012 NHL Draft First Round

The NHL Entry Draft took place on Friday night in Pittsburgh and it was everything fans could have wanted. There were trades, unsuspected draft picks and lots of boo's from the Penguins fans. In all honesty what could be better than moms crying tears of happiness and proud fathers hugging their sons after getting drafted? One things for sure this is a night these young kids will never forget!

So time to break down the first round draft picks:

1. Edmonton Oilers- Nail Yakupov

This was a bit of a strange pick for the Oilers, honestly they didn't need another forward. They already have Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Jordan Eberle. But with their 3rd straight first overall pick the Edmonton Oilers selected Sarnia Sting forward Nail Yakupov. There's no question Yakupov is a star player who wouldn't have fallen out of the top 5 but many including myself thought the Oilers would go in the direction of a defenceman. It will be interesting to see if the Oilers will be able to make the playoffs with exuberance of forwards or will fall just short after not fixing up their back end.

2. Columbus Blue Jackets- Ryan Murray
The defenceman many thought the Oilers would be thinking about ends up going to the Blue Jackets. Good draft pick by the Blue Jackets but maybe a bit of a sad thing for Murray. Jokes immediately surfaced on twitter on how long it would take before Murray demanded a trade out of Columbus. Murray is hands down the best defenceman this draft had to offer.

3. Montreal Canadiens- Alex Galchenyuk
This could easily be the best pick from the entire draft, despite missing all but 2 games this season Galchenyuk has a lot of upside. If he had been healthy the entire season many believe he could have challenged Yakupov for the first overall pick, but due to the injury he dropped down to 6 on most rankings. Solid pick by the Canadiens by selecting Galchenyuk

4. New York Islanders- Griffen Reinhart
This pick really surprised, not that Reinhart isn't a very skilled player but him going 4th overall is a bit much in my opinion. Many including myself had him down around 12th (possibly going to Buffalo) so him going 4th was a bit of a shock to the system. Reinhart is a solid player and the 3rd member of his family to enter in the NHL and by far the highest pick of the family. He's got a fantastic shot and can hopefully help the Islanders finally get over the hump.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs- Morgan Rielly
This pick surprised a lot of people as the Leafs didn't need a defenceman they needed a forward, and at 5th in the draft there is a plethora of forwards available to choose. But Burke true to character surprised and frustrated "Leafsnation" by draft Rielly. But the angle the fans should be looking at: Does Luke Schenn now become expendable? It's well documented that the Leafs are in the Luongo sweepstakes Luke Schenn would be a solid bargaining tool. The Leafs got a solid 2 way defenceman who much like Phaneuf likes to skate with the puck.

6. Anaheim Ducks- Hampus Lindholm
Lindholm had the best conditioning of all the draft picks, but I really don't know much about Lindholm.  But I do know in The Hockey Writers Mock Draft we had him going at 23, so this was a shock. But obviously the Ducks saw something no one else did. Lindholm will need some time to adjust and learn the North American style of hockey.

7. Minnesota Wild- Matthew Dumba
Another solid defenceman taken in the top 10. Many thought Burke may go after Dumba who has great agility and speed.

8. Pittsburgh Penguins- Derrick Pouliot
One of the best defenceman in the draft. He is one of the most complete players available who has amazing strength.  Pouliot will likely need a few more years to develop but once he does, look out!

9. Winnipeg Jets- Jacob Trouba
In all likely hood Trouba's game will likely become a more defencive style in the NHL, but he has the opportunity to put up some offencive numbers to boot. He's a solid 2 way defenceman who skates smoothly and has all the defencive skills ready to become an NHL blueliner. Solid pick by the Jets with lots of potential.

10. Tampa Bay Lightning- Slater Koekkoek
This pick was complete surprise and came out of no where, in the rankings and the Mock Draft we had Koekkoek going as low as 21st, so to see him in the top 10 was shocking. But he is a truly gifted offensive player. Koekkoek had his junior season cut short due to a shoulder injury but is in no means a liability, he's a very coachable kid and makes himself a student of the game. He is likely several years away as he still needs to learn to play a complete defencive game.

11. Washington Capitals- Filip Forsberg
Forsberg dropping out of the top 10 was a huge surprise many had him as high as third overall. But he is one of arguably the most complete forwards in the draft and offers a huge bonus by being able to play both centre and wing. Forsberg is practically the complete package, he's big, tough, has excellent hockey IQ and has excellent puck handling skills. The Capitals got a steal at 11.

12. Buffalo Sabres- Mikhail Grigorenko

My favorite pick from the entire first round, couldn't be happier the Sabres were able to get Grigorenko  and they didn't have to move up to get him either. Many including myself thought he would be off the board by the time the Sabres got their pick at 12, but he was almost the perfect player for the Sabres. In every draft preview I did (that was Sabres related) I suggested the Sabres trading picks and a player to move up and get their hands on Grigorenko. He's a big solid centre who should be able to step right into the NHL as early as next season and could one day become the Sabres number 1 centre. The Sabres could have stopped drafting right here and I would have been perfectly happy.


13. Dallas Stars- Radek Faksa
A solid centre but likely 2-3 years away from a permanent stay in the NHL. Quite surprised he was still available at 13th overall but will turn into a solid centre in a couple of years only thing lacking is his size.

14. Buffalo Sabres- Zemgus Girgensons
Another first round pick for the Sabres and yet another centre. What did the Buffalo Sabres need going into the draft/free agency? Centres especially one that can turn into a number centre. While Girgensons likely won't become a number one centre he would be a perfect fit on the second or third line in Buffalo. Unlike Grigorenko, Girgensons still needs some time to develop and grow into his 6 foot 2 198 pound frame and possible get bigger. But another solid pick from Buffalo.

15. Ottawa Senators- Cody Ceci
This ones tough as I really wanted the Sabres to go after him at 12th and really really wanted them to go after Ceci at 14th but they didn't really need a defenceman. So the Senators got one of the best defenceman in the draft. Cody Ceci will turn into a solid defenceman and may be ready to step into the NHL as early as October. All I can say is I am slightly jealous the Senators got Ceci.

16. Washington Capitals- Thomas Wilson
Yet another team that was able to nab 2 first round draft picks, so with their second pick the Capitals went after Thomas Wilson. I am a little surprised Wilson went as high as he did as he was ranked near the bottom 5 in the first round, but teams can always use a little more grit. Wilson strikes me as a typical 3rd line centre, likes to play a rough physical game but is more than capable of putting up solid offencive numbers when paired will skilled line mates. The closest comparison to Wilson would be Boston Bruins Milan Lucic, if he develops into even half the player Lucic is the Capitals may have discovered a very solid 3rd liner.

17. San Jose Sharks- Tomas Hertl
I don't have much to say about Hertl as most of the rankings/mock drafts I looked at didn't have him going in the first round. But he looks to be another solid centre, in a draft filled with defenceman it is tough to pick a centre. He will still need some time to develop his game and improve his skating but he should turn into a solid NHL player.

18. Chicago Blackhawks- Teuvo Teravainen
Teravainen is an exceptional talent who proved in his rookie season that he is up to the task of being a top player. He will need more time to develop his game and become more mature, it would benefit him to come over to North America to adjust to the type of game played in the NHL.


19. Tampa Bay Lightning- Andrei Vasilevski
The top goalie taken in the draft, and one of the best. Vasilevski made a name for himself in the World Juniors when he played for Russian and finished the tournament for a 2.01 GAA and .953 Save percentage. He's a very athletic goalie and has amazing hockey IQ and will surely be the starter in the future for the Russia Junior team. He will need time to develop his game (as most goaltenders do) but could turn into the next Lightning starter in a few years.

20. Philadelphia Flyers- Scott Laughton
Laughton is one of the most complete centres in the draft and had the potential to move up in the draft. He will likely develop into a power forward, he's exceptional in the face off circles. He has the potential to be a point per game type of player as he showed at the U-18 tournament.

21. Calgary Flames- Mark Jankowski
This was a very strange draft pick as the Flames actually traded down to acquire this pick and then take a player completely off the board. This is a high gamble pick for the flames as Jankowski is still in high school and is just 17! But despite being such a young kid, he plays with the puck like a seasoned veteran.

22. Pittsburgh Penguins- Olli Maatta
I am extremely surprised that Maatta fell this far as he was ranked just outside the top 10 (15ht). Have you heard of Erik Karlsson? Well this guy could turn into a clone of Karlsson as a solid 2 way defenceman. His strengths come through mainly in his skating and passing but he showed this season in the OHL that he is able to score goals and put points on the board.

23. Florida Panthers- Michael Matheson
Another pick that was "off the board". Matheson likely wont make an impact with the Panthers right away as he is commited to Boston College for his future. Despite him not being that well known he has the potential to become a solid player.

24. Boston Bruins- Malcolm Subban

Adding more feul to the Habs vs Bruins rivalry, like they needed anymore? The Bruins have drafted P.K Subban's little brother Malcolm, and he is no longer just P.Ks little brother. Once Malcolm does make it to the NHL (could be a few years) watching him and his brother battle it out will be quite something to watch. But Malcolm has one up on P.K as he was drafted much higher than his older brother. But with whats unfolding in Boston, the Bruins may need a backup for Tukka Rask.

25. St. Louis Blues- Jordan Schmaltz
Another unknown pick who came out of nowhere, Schmaltz like several other players in the draft is coming out of the USHL. Schmaltz is thought of as a "project" player, a high risk that may not turn out.  He is committed to the University of North Dakota. Will be interesting to see his development in the next few years.

26. Vancouver Canucks- Brendan Gaunce
Another pick that I am very surprised fell this low as I was looking into him potentially going to the Sabres at 12th overall. He led his Belleville Bulls with 68 points and has the potential to become a power forward.

27. Phoenix Coyotes- Henrik Samuelsson
Samuelsson's got people attention with his play in the WHL and at the WJC. His draft rose dramatically and ultimately got him into the first round.

28. New York Rangers- Brady Skjei
Skjei is an imposing defenseman who continued to grow this season and has been climbing the charts as well. For a big player, Skjei is tremendously mobile and his high-end skating ability allows him to work in transition and handle incoming forechecks. He’s still got a raw skill-set and is learning how to use his size effectively, but the Minnesota commit has an enticing skill-set that projects well at the NHL level. At this point, Skjei has to be considered to be the 2012 edition of the NTDP’s Connor Murphy, and we’ll see how he plays over the coming months as he makes a final push up the charts.”


29. New Jersey Devils- Stefan Matteau
Matteau is thought of to be one of the safer picks in the draft and because of that he was taken in the first round. But he is a very skilled two way player.


30. Los Angeles Kings- Tanner Pearson
This may have been the most shocking player that got drafted in the first round, he went from an "Unknown" to a first round draft pick. It was tough for Pearson who broke his leg right before the start of the playoffs, but he did enough in the regular season to convince the Kings he was worth the Gamble.


This draft has been one of the most unpredictable drafts of late, even inside the top 5 there was little parody. Some had Yakupov 1st while others had Murray going 1st. Some had Grigorenko in the top 5 and some had Griffen Reinhart outside the top 10. But each team seemed to have their own rankings. 


Trades


Pittsburgh Penguins dealt Jordan Staal to Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for 2012 first round pick, prospect Brandon Sutter and Brian Dumoulin.
This was a big trade and pretty much a crucial move by the Penguins. After Jordan Staal turned down a 10 year 60 million dollar deal it was clear he wasn't keen on stay long term with the Penguins as a third line centre. To be honest he is too good to be a third line centre and deserves a chance to be a 2nd or 1st line centre and opportunity he will get with the Hurricanes. 
This move will give Jordan and his brother Eric a chance to play together which is exactly what they wanted. 


Washington Capitals dealt Semyon Varlamov to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for their first pick in 2012 and their 2nd round pick in 2013

Calgary trades their 14th pick to Buffalo in exchange for Buffalo's 21st pick in round 1 and their 42nd pick in the 2nd round


Tampa Bay deal Kyle Quincey to the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for the Wings first round pick and Sebastien Piche.

Top 10 Draft Picks in Sabres History

Original article found on The Hockey Writers

With the draft just days away, everyone is hoping to discover the next star.  Let’s take a look back at the best Sabres draft picks of all time.

10. Taro Tsujimoto

Imagine watching the draft and hearing the GM of your favorite team call out the name of a player that you not only had never heard of, but later discovered that he didn’t even exist! In the 11th round of the 1974 NHL Entry Draft the Buffalo Sabres selected Taro Tsujimoto, a name that General Manager Punch Imlach found in a local phone book. Imlach was supposedly fed up with the slow pace of the draft and decided to have a little fun, drafting  the fictitious Tsujimoto, a centre from the Japanese Hockey League. The NHL saw no issue with the Sabres 183 draft pick and deemed it legal. It wasn’t until training camp started that Imlach came clean about the phoney draft pick and it was deemed an “invalid claim”. Today Tsujimoto’s name can still be found as a draft pick in the Sabres media guide. 

9. Alexander Mogilny 

Many assume the nickname “Alexander the Great” belongs exclusively to Capitals sniperAlexander Ovechkin, but there was another Russian by the name of Alex who carried the nickname.  Alexander Mogilny was the Sabres’ 89th pick in 1988. Mogilny got the attention of the club after his play with the Soviet Union where he centred a line between fellow NHL stars Sergei Federov and Pavel Bure. In 1992, Mogilny ended up tied for the NHL led in goals with 76 goals in just 77 games, including a performance that saw him score 50 goals in 46 games. He racked up 211 Goals and 444 points while wearing the blue and gold .

8. Danny Gare

Hanging from the rafters at  First Niagara Centre is Sabres jersey number 18. That jersey belonged to Danny Gare, the  29th pick in the 1974 NHL Entry Draft. The 5’9″ scrappy right-winger had quite the career in Buffalo, becoming a 2 time all-star, recording two 50 goal seasons, leading the league in goals with 56 (1980), holding the record for most game tying goals as a Sabre (21)  and holding the record for most goals by a Sabres right-winger (267). Gare would go on to record 267 goals and 500 points with the Blue and Gold and have his number 18 retired by the Buffalo Sabres.

7. Thomas Vanek

Fan favorite Thomas Vanek was drafted  5th overall by Buffalo in the  2003. He has proven to be a strong influence and was given the position of Alternate

(Icon SMI)

Captain last season, signifying his leadership on the team. In 7 seasons, he has never scored less than 20 goals. His best season was 2006-2007, when he scored 43 goals and added 41 assists for 84 points while playing in all 82 games. With 2 years still remaining on his contract with the Sabres, Vanek has already scored more goals than “Alexander the Great” (230) and is well on his way to passing the accolades of Danny Gare. Maybe by the time the sun sets on Vanek’s career his number 26 will be hanging from the rafters.

6. Pierre Turgeuron

In 1987 the Sabres held the first over pick in the NHL Entry Draft.  With that pick they would select the legendary Pierre Turgeon. It did not take long for the young rookie to make his impact on the Sabres, finishing his rookie season with a respectable 42 points and helping the Sabres get back into the playoffs for the first time in 3 years. He followed up his rookie season with a dazzling 88 point season in 1988-1989 and followed that up with a jaw dropping 106 points and an All-Star game appearance in 1990. Following a 79 point season with the Sabres in 1991, he was traded to the New York Islanders in the deal that brought Pat  LaFontaine to the Sabres.

5. Dave Andreychuck 

Legendary winger Dave Andreychuck got his career started in Buffalo after being drafted by the Sabres in1982. He played 11 seasons with the Sabres before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1993.  Andreychuck scored 368 goals and added 436 assists for 804 points during his stay in Buffalo and trails only Gilbert Perreault and Rick Martin on the Sabres all time goal scoring list.   He’s still regarded as one of the most underrated players in the club’s history. Andreychuck holds franchise records for most goals in 1 game (5), Most power play goals (160) and most points by a left-winger (804) he is also 2nd all time in assists and points by a Sabre.

4. Ryan Miller

Anytime you can get a goalie of Miller’s caliber at 138th overall, you know you’ve made a smart draft pick. While at Michigan State University, Miller became the second goalie in history to win the Hobey Baker Award (2001) and set a new NCAA record with 26 shutouts. Remarkably there were 16 goalies drafted before Miller in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft yet only 3 of them have seen significant playing time in the NHL. While Miller has his critics he is arguably the 4th best player selected in the 2001 draft behind the Sedin twins and Henrik Zetterberg.

Mille holds the record for most career wins as a Sabre (252) and for the most wins in a single season (41), he also joins Rangers Goalie Henrik Lundqvist as the only two goalies to record 7 straight 30+ win seasons. Add a Vezina trophy and an Olympic silver medal to that list and the Sabres have themselves their franchise goaltender.

3. Rick Martin

Martin was part of the “French Connection” line along with Gilbert Perreault and Rene Robert. The Sabres took Martin 5th overall in the 1971 NHL Draft.  He still holds the franchise records for most hat-tricks, 40 goal seasons (5), most consecutive 40 goal seasons, 50 goal seasons (2) and 4 goal games. He was selected to play in 7 consecutive All-Star games. Martin’s number (along with his “French Connection” line mates) (7) was retired by the Sabres and his name can be found in the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame.

2. Mike Ramsey

Every hockey fan in the world has heard about the Miracle on Ice.  What they might not know is the Sabres’ 11th overall draft pick i  1979, Mike Ramsey, was the youngest member of that Olympic team. Ramsey had one of the more successful careers of the Olympians from 1980, turning himself into a stay-at-home defenseman during his time with the Sabres. He was named to the All-Star game 4 times and served as the Sabres captain for the 1991 season.

1. Gilbert Perreault

He’s the best known Sabre and regarded as one of the most gifted and skillful players ever. The famous “French Connection” line claimed him for their centre.  His entire NHL career was played wearing aBuffalosweater. From Perreault’s Calder-winning rookie season to his first retirement, he was a Sabres legend.  In fact he was the “original Sabre,” becoming the franchise’s first ever draft choice.

Perreault ended eleven of his seventeen seasons with playoff appearances.  He racked up 512 goals, 814 assists for 1326 career points and was the 6th leading scorer in NHL history by the time he retired. To this day he is still the franchise leader in goals (512), assists (814), points (1326), game winning goals, regular season games played (1191), most points in a single game (7) and shots on net, he was also asked to play in 9 All-Star games.
The Buffalo Sabres retired his number 11 and Perreault was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Perreault and his “French connection” helped put the Sabres on the map.

Only time will tell if the Sabres are able to draft another “Gem” in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.