Winners and Losers From the Trade Deadline

Another NHL trade deadline has come and gone. Trades were made and some teams made deals that will no doubt help their teams for the future. It's time to break down the winners and losers from the trade deadline.

Winners

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets are battling for a playoff spot in the Western Conference- who would have thought that when the season started? At

[caption id="attachment_2839" align="alignright" width="300"] Marian Gaborik[/caption]

trade deadline time they proved that they're serious about making the playoffs and went out to acquire some big guns.

The biggest deal for the Blue Jackets was acquiring Marian Gaborik  from the New York Rangers who waived his no-movement clause to join the Jackets. The fact Gaborik waived his no-movement clause to join the Blue Jackets is huge and turns Columbus into a possible destination for other big players.

In addition to bringing in Gaborik, they also brought in veteran forward Blake Comeau which gives them added depth up front. Sergei Bobrovsky has been lights out for the Jackets this season, he's proven he's ready to be their full time goalie and as a result Steve Mason was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers.

The Columbus Blue Jackets made a major splash at the deadline, giving them all the tools they need to make the playoffs. Rick Nash who?

Boston Bruins

While the Bruins missed out on the Jarome Iginla sweepstakes they made up for it by landing Jaromir Jagr at the deadline. Now of course this opens up the debate on which player is a better fit for the Bruins; Jagr or Iginla?

Jagr will be a huge help for the Bruins and their 24th ranked power play, he'll bring creativity and will help mentor some of the younger players like Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand. In addition to bringing in Jagr to help the offence, the Bruins also brought in Wade Redden to add depth to their blue line.

The Bruins brought in key pieces to help counter what the Pittsburgh Penguins have done. The Eastern Conference is extremely close with the Penguins and Bruins both stocking up, wouldn't be a surprise to see them in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins did a lot of their wheeling and dealing ahead of the trade deadline. By getting their shopping list done early the Penguins were able to get the pieces they needed for a playoff run without having to sell the farm. Penguins brought in Jarome Iginla, Brenden Morrow and Douglas Murray before the deadline, putting them in contention for a deep playoff run.

Ray Shero deserves the GM of the year award, he brought in three key players that will add depth to the Penguins without even giving up a player on the roster. Right before the trade deadline the Penguins were dealt a major blow when Sidney Crosby took a puck to the face and broke his jaw. No one knows how long he'll be out and with playoffs right around the corner the Penguins needed more depth. Shero made another brilliant move bringing veteran Jussi Jokinen to add more depth, the kicker is the Carolina Hurricanes will be eating some of Jokinen's salary.

Buffalo Sabres

When you trade your captain away it means you're waiving the white flag, and for the Buffalo Sabres trading Jason Pominville is the beginning of their rebuild. This trade deadline may be Darcy Regier's last as GM of the Sabres, but he went out on fire.

Ahead of the deadline the Sabres traded Robyn Regehr and Jordan Leopold for three 2nd-round draft picks and a conditional fifth. The most important thing when entering a rebuild is the draft, the Sabres have a plethora of second round draft picks which will be key for the future.

The biggest move by the Sabres was the aforementioned Pominville trade. While getting picks for Regehr and Leopold was good settling for picks in return for Pominville wasn't acceptable. The Sabres managed to rob the Minnesota Wild in the return for their captain. Johan Larsson a top prospect who's being compared to both Pominville and Cody Hodgson, top goalie prospect Matt Hackett, a first round pick in 2013 and second round pick in 2014 are all now Sabres property.

This was the perfect move for the Sabres and sets them up for a big off-season that will see the likes of Ryan Miller and Drew Stafford heading out of town. Times are changing in Buffalo and this was the move that needed to kick it all off, the monster return is just the cherry on top.

San Jose Sharks

It was a quiet but good deadline for the Sharks. They picked up 5 draft picks in return for Ryan Clowe and Douglas Murray and they replaced their two roster players with Scott Hannan and Raffi Torres. The Sharks are in tough spot; They're battling for a playoff spot but also starting to rebuild on the fly.

Losers

Philadelphia Flyers

With both the Penguins and Bruins making considerable moves to help them make a playoff run the Flyers did nothing to help themselves get closer to the playoffs. In fact by doing virtually nothing- other than claiming Adam Hall off waivers and bringing Steve Mason to add to their goalie circus, the Flyers may have gotten worse.

Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings needed to add some offence at the deadline to help solidify their win-now motto, they were unable to land anyone that would help. The Red Wings made offers for multiple players leading up to the deadline but nothing materialized forcing them to stay put and make their playoff run with their current roster.

Carolina Hurricanes

With Joni Pitkanen lost for the year due to injury the Hurricanes needed to bring in another defenceman to fill his spot. They went out and found Marc-Andre Bergeron who will help fill the gap for the rest of the season. In the sense that they got their defenceman they did alright, but where they really lost out was losing Josi Jokinen and having to eat some of his contract as part of the deal with Pittsburgh. Hurricanes are just on the edge of the playoffs fighting every game to gain ground, they needed to do more at the deadline to get them closer to the playoffs.

Calgary Flames

It's hard to fault the Flames for their lack of movement at the deadline and getting less than market value back for many of their key pieces as they're heading into a "rebuild." But the Flames could have at least tried to get some solid young prospects in return for Iginla and Bouwmeester. The good news is the Flames now have three- first round picks for the upcoming draft which will help them either make some trades or draft some solid prospects in this years deep draft.

 

Leafs Have James Reimer No Need For Kiprusoff

It's that time again when trade rumours are flying all around, often it's hard to decipher between which ones are legitimate and which ones are a hoax. The one rumour surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs all season is their need for a veteran goalie and once again with deadline less than 24 hours away a veteran goalie is all everyone in Toronto wants to talk about.

Talks have heated up again after Dave Nonis said he wouldn't rule out adding a veteran goaltender for the playoffs. News broke that the Leafs have been talking with the Calgary Flames about acquiring Miikka Kiprusoff. Here's the kicker, James Reimer and Ben Scrivens have played just fine and sit 8th and 11th respectively in Save Percentage amongst goalies who have played half their teams games. While James Reimer doesn't have a lot of experience under his belt he's established himself as the Leafs starting goaltender for the future.

Sure Reimer's numbers have been a little shaky this season and he's battled some injuries but he's starting to heat up at the perfect time for the Leafs. In his last 11 games he's 6-1-4 and has posted 2 shutouts (against the Winnipeg Jets and Ottawa Senators). What that proves is that James Reimer has been winning hockey games and that's all you can ask for from your goalie. Through his 22 games this season Reimer owns a 13-4-4 record with a .920 S% and a 2.52 Goals Against Average. Even more impressive is his even strength S% of .926 which is amongst the best in the NHL.

By the way the Leafs are tied for 5th in the Eastern Conference and are going to end their playoff drought in large part thanks to their goaltending, whats the issue? Whether you want to admit it or not James Reimer is establishing himself as an NHL starter and he gives the Leafs a bright future.

The major concern for the Leafs brass is the fact that James Reimer and Ben Scrivens have a combined 0 NHL playoff games under their belts. But let's not forget Scrivens led the Toronto Marlies all the way to the Calder Cup Championships and James Reimer was named the most valuable player throughout the ECHL playoffs in 2009. So they do have a little bit of experience playing in high-pressure situations such as the playoffs. Here's a brilliant idea, if you want James Reimer and Ben Scrivens to get some playoff experience, stick with them and let them get that experience!

The next question you need to ask is with acquiring Miikka Kiprusoff are the Leafs now favorites or contenders to win the Cup and the answer to that is no. With his poor attitude, threatening to nullify all trades by not showing up and his weak play this season, is he really that much of an upgrade over James Reimer?

By bringing in a veteran goaltender with playoff experience you're only slowing down James Reimer's development and not allowing him the experience you're upset at him for not having. What happens when you bring in that veteran goalie for the playoffs and then he leaves next season- you're right back in the same boat with two goalies with no playoff experience. Also if you think the Leafs goalies are inexperienced take a look at their blue line and then we'll talk inexperienced.

Bringing in an experienced veteran like Kiprusoff or Roberto Luongo would have huge ramifications for the Leafs in the future and would likely end Ben Scrivens' days as a Leaf, not only that but it could ruin James Reimer's confidence. Reimer admitted today during practice that all this trade talk about bringing in a veteran goalie to take over for the playoffs is bothering him, and he has every right to be upset about it. Reimer has been fantastic this season and gotten the Leafs wins all season long, no you're suddenly going to replace him because you don't think he can get the job done?

Now the fact that Leafs want a veteran goalie to come in and mentor Reimer and Scrivens is understandable and I've even said James Reimer could use a veteran mentor. But bringing a guy like Miikka Kiprusoff in as a mentor would be a big mistake! First of all Reimer numbers over the last three season have been better than his mentors. Yes Kiprusoff has playoff experience and a run to the Stanley Cup Finals, but he's been eliminated in the first round in 4 out of 5 playoff appearances. Also at the age of 36, missing the playoffs the last 3 seasons and posting an atrocious .868 S% and 3.64 GAA, there's some debate on whether or not he's past his prime.

The Leafs are going to end their playoff drought and that's great but let's face it they still don't have what it takes to compete with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Boston Bruins of the East. Adding Kiprusoff really doesn't change that fact, so is it worth ruining Reimer's confidence, losing prospects to still possibly getting knocked out in the first round?

The Leafs don't need another goalie, they have two very capable goalies already. Heroes are born in the playoffs- instead of wondering if James Reimer will flop in the playoffs maybe it's time to start wondering if he'll become a star and make a name for himself.

How the Kings got Crowned

This post is a follow up of sorts to my last piece: L.A Kings Stanley Cup Champions and will be breaking down how the Kings won the cup. It will talk about some of the key players, key scenarios and how the Kings were able to defeat the Devils in 6 games.

So as you should know by the now the Los Angeles Kings are the 2011-2012 Stanley Cup Champions after defeating the Devils 6-1 on Monday night. The Kings went on a Cinderella run after defeating the Vancouver Canucks in the first round, going on to eliminate the first 3 seeds in the West (Canucks, Blues, Coyotes) and became the first ever 8th seed to lift Lord Stanley's Cup.
So how did they do it, it sure as heck didn't come easily. I've done the research and ran the numbers and came up with some key points.

3 Reasons the Kings won:


1. Jonathan Quick

No matter how good a team is if they don't have good goaltending to go along with it the team will not be successful. That's not the case with the Kings (or the Devils) Jonathan Quick was exceptional throughout these playoffs and was a major reason why they were lifting the cup on Monday. Quick went 16-4 with a 1.41 GAA and .946 Save Percentage add 3 shutouts and 10 consecutive road victories and you have your Conn Smythe winner. He was able to keep the Kings in games even when they weren't scoring, letting in 2 or less goals in 18 of 20 games.
In the Stanley Cup finals he let in just 7 goals in 6 games and stopped 125 of 132 shots.
His 1.41 GAA and .946 Save Percentage were enough to earn him the lowest goals against average and highest save percentage honours. (All done in one playoff year).
In 20 games this post season quick faced 538 shots and stopped 509 of them.
Needless to say Quick was very worthy of his Conn Smythe trophy as he was a major key to the Kings Stanley Cup victory playing lights out hockey. He vitually put an end to Roberto Loungo's career in Vancouver and Zach Parise's career in New Jersey.
He out duelled the legendary Martin Brodeur and that's how the Kings won, they got better goaltending when they needed it most.

2. No place like the road
The Kings were able to do something that hockey fans may never see again, throughout the playoffs they went 10-1 on the road. Including 10 consecutive road wins. In all 4 series they played they started on the road and all 4 times they came back with a 2-0 series lead. Which further proves the myth of home ice advantage, it doesn't matter where you play you can still win and be dominate... the Kings did. You want to talk about home ice advantage, ask the Canucks how well that worked out for them!

3. Top players stepped up

All a team can ask from their star players is that the produce in big games. On Monday night the Kings couldn't have asked for much more from Dustin Brown. Brown opened the scoring by tipping in a Drew Doughty point shot and added 2 assists before the night was over. Putting up 3 points in game 6 and leading by example. The line of Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Justin Williams was the best line for any team in playoffs together they combined for 35 points and a plus/minus of 40. Brown and Kopitar both racked up 20 points and took turn leading the team during the playoffs. Although they were relatively quite during the Finals, Brown came up big when his team needed him most!

3 Stars


1. Jonathan Quick
16-4 - 1.41 GAA- .946 S%-- 3 shutouts and 10 consecutive road victories
The stats speak for themselves.


2. Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar
Combining these guys together as their stats are identical and they play on the same line!
8 goals - 12 Assists - 20 points with a +/- 16


3. Drew Doughty
Huge leader on defense for the Kings, also came up big in game 6.
4 goals - 12 assists - 16 points He led all defenseman in points in the playoffs.


Honourable Mention


Willie Mitchell--- was on the for 73:43 of Short handed time throughout the playoffs one of their best and most reliable defenseman. He was able to contribute on the score board by adding a goal and 2 assists for 3 points and remarkably was a +7 despite playing almost 75 minutes short handed.

Dark Horse


Dwight King-- a guy very few had heard of before the playoffs began proved to be an important member of the Kings roster and now very deservedly gets his name on the Stanley Cup. King didn't score his first NHL goal until February of this year and was drafted 109th overall in 2007, not exactly the kind of guy you expect big production from. He racked up 24 points in 27 goals during the regular season and didn't stop there. He racked up 5 goals and added 3 assists for 8 points during these playoffs, although those aren't crazy stats they're pretty solid for a 4th line rookie. In fact he outscored Kings Dustin Penner and Justin Williams. He also led the Kings with a 15.2 shooting percentage.
King was able to put the puck in the net when it mattered most and scored some goals that "broke the back" of opponents. He was also responsible for the 3rd goal in which the Kings scored on the 5 minute major, when he got the puck in the neutral zone, breezed past some defenders and left the puck sitting there for his line mate to tap in.
He's a real Don Cherry type of player and he's Canadian to boot!


2 Key Moments


1. Penalty Trouble
This one is obvious, the hit by Steve Bernier on Rob Scuderi which resulted in Bernier being kicked out of the game and the Kings going on a 5 minute power play in which they capitalized 3 times. This play unfortunately set the tone for the rest of the game and spelled the beginning of the end for the Devils who had all the momentum up until that hit. The Kings rallied around that opportunity and seized it which led to them winning their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.

2. The trade Deadline

What the kings were able to do and didn't do paid huge dividends in the end. They were able to acquire former Flyer and Mike Richards party mate Jeff Carter from the Blue Jackets. Carter scored 2 goals in game 6 including the clinching goal that led to the Kings raising the Cup. Carter and Richards Combined for 28 points during the playoffs and needless to say the Kings are great full they were on their roster. Turns out they are capable of winning a Stanley Cup. The Flyers should be getting that thank you card any day now.
Another move or lack there of by the Kings was deciding to keep captain Dustin Brown who was rumoured to be on the trade block. I be they're glad they kept him now! Brown came up big in game 6 recording a goal and 2 assists to lead his team to their first ever championship.
After the King acquired Jeff Carter and Kept Dustin Brown they went on a remarkable 29-9-3 run (much like the Sabres) which ultimately landed them in the 8th and final playoff spot. Brown kicked off the run with a hat trick in a 4-0 win.

Interesting stats
1. The Rangers who only made it to the Conference played the same number of games as the Kings
2. The New Jersey Devils played in 24 games which is 4 games more than the Kings.
3. 29 other goalies in the NHL have a higher cap hit than Jonathan Quick (that will be changing)
4. The Kings went 12-2 during their run through the Western Conference during the playoffs. 
5. The Kings are now the third straight Stanley Cup Champions to have started their season in Europe. (2009 Penguins, 2010 Blackhawks and 2011 Bruins)
6. Dustin Brown is just the 2nd American born captain to raise the Cup.
7. The Kings had 25 Canadian players on their roster, 

How the Kings got Crowned

This post is a follow up of sorts to my last piece: L.A Kings Stanley Cup Champions and will be breaking down how the Kings won the cup. It will talk about some of the key players, key scenarios and how the Kings were able to defeat the Devils in 6 games.

So as you should know by the now the Los Angeles Kings are the 2011-2012 Stanley Cup Champions after defeating the Devils 6-1 on Monday night. The Kings went on a Cinderella run after defeating the Vancouver Canucks in the first round, going on to eliminate the first 3 seeds in the West (Canucks, Blues, Coyotes) and became the first ever 8th seed to lift Lord Stanley's Cup.
So how did they do it, it sure as heck didn't come easily. I've done the research and ran the numbers and came up with some key points.

3 Reasons the Kings won:


1. Jonathan Quick

No matter how good a team is if they don't have good goaltending to go along with it the team will not be successful. That's not the case with the Kings (or the Devils) Jonathan Quick was exceptional throughout these playoffs and was a major reason why they were lifting the cup on Monday. Quick went 16-4 with a 1.41 GAA and .946 Save Percentage add 3 shutouts and 10 consecutive road victories and you have your Conn Smythe winner. He was able to keep the Kings in games even when they weren't scoring, letting in 2 or less goals in 18 of 20 games.
In the Stanley Cup finals he let in just 7 goals in 6 games and stopped 125 of 132 shots.
His 1.41 GAA and .946 Save Percentage were enough to earn him the lowest goals against average and highest save percentage honours. (All done in one playoff year).
In 20 games this post season quick faced 538 shots and stopped 509 of them.
Needless to say Quick was very worthy of his Conn Smythe trophy as he was a major key to the Kings Stanley Cup victory playing lights out hockey. He vitually put an end to Roberto Loungo's career in Vancouver and Zach Parise's career in New Jersey.
He out duelled the legendary Martin Brodeur and that's how the Kings won, they got better goaltending when they needed it most.

2. No place like the road
The Kings were able to do something that hockey fans may never see again, throughout the playoffs they went 10-1 on the road. Including 10 consecutive road wins. In all 4 series they played they started on the road and all 4 times they came back with a 2-0 series lead. Which further proves the myth of home ice advantage, it doesn't matter where you play you can still win and be dominate... the Kings did. You want to talk about home ice advantage, ask the Canucks how well that worked out for them!

3. Top players stepped up

All a team can ask from their star players is that the produce in big games. On Monday night the Kings couldn't have asked for much more from Dustin Brown. Brown opened the scoring by tipping in a Drew Doughty point shot and added 2 assists before the night was over. Putting up 3 points in game 6 and leading by example. The line of Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and Justin Williams was the best line for any team in playoffs together they combined for 35 points and a plus/minus of 40. Brown and Kopitar both racked up 20 points and took turn leading the team during the playoffs. Although they were relatively quite during the Finals, Brown came up big when his team needed him most!

3 Stars


1. Jonathan Quick
16-4 - 1.41 GAA- .946 S%-- 3 shutouts and 10 consecutive road victories
The stats speak for themselves.


2. Dustin Brown and Anze Kopitar
Combining these guys together as their stats are identical and they play on the same line!
8 goals - 12 Assists - 20 points with a +/- 16


3. Drew Doughty
Huge leader on defense for the Kings, also came up big in game 6.
4 goals - 12 assists - 16 points He led all defenseman in points in the playoffs.


Honourable Mention


Willie Mitchell--- was on the for 73:43 of Short handed time throughout the playoffs one of their best and most reliable defenseman. He was able to contribute on the score board by adding a goal and 2 assists for 3 points and remarkably was a +7 despite playing almost 75 minutes short handed.

Dark Horse


Dwight King-- a guy very few had heard of before the playoffs began proved to be an important member of the Kings roster and now very deservedly gets his name on the Stanley Cup. King didn't score his first NHL goal until February of this year and was drafted 109th overall in 2007, not exactly the kind of guy you expect big production from. He racked up 24 points in 27 goals during the regular season and didn't stop there. He racked up 5 goals and added 3 assists for 8 points during these playoffs, although those aren't crazy stats they're pretty solid for a 4th line rookie. In fact he outscored Kings Dustin Penner and Justin Williams. He also led the Kings with a 15.2 shooting percentage.
King was able to put the puck in the net when it mattered most and scored some goals that "broke the back" of opponents. He was also responsible for the 3rd goal in which the Kings scored on the 5 minute major, when he got the puck in the neutral zone, breezed past some defenders and left the puck sitting there for his line mate to tap in.
He's a real Don Cherry type of player and he's Canadian to boot!


2 Key Moments


1. Penalty Trouble
This one is obvious, the hit by Steve Bernier on Rob Scuderi which resulted in Bernier being kicked out of the game and the Kings going on a 5 minute power play in which they capitalized 3 times. This play unfortunately set the tone for the rest of the game and spelled the beginning of the end for the Devils who had all the momentum up until that hit. The Kings rallied around that opportunity and seized it which led to them winning their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.

2. The trade Deadline

What the kings were able to do and didn't do paid huge dividends in the end. They were able to acquire former Flyer and Mike Richards party mate Jeff Carter from the Blue Jackets. Carter scored 2 goals in game 6 including the clinching goal that led to the Kings raising the Cup. Carter and Richards Combined for 28 points during the playoffs and needless to say the Kings are great full they were on their roster. Turns out they are capable of winning a Stanley Cup. The Flyers should be getting that thank you card any day now.
Another move or lack there of by the Kings was deciding to keep captain Dustin Brown who was rumoured to be on the trade block. I be they're glad they kept him now! Brown came up big in game 6 recording a goal and 2 assists to lead his team to their first ever championship.
After the King acquired Jeff Carter and Kept Dustin Brown they went on a remarkable 29-9-3 run (much like the Sabres) which ultimately landed them in the 8th and final playoff spot. Brown kicked off the run with a hat trick in a 4-0 win.

Interesting stats
1. The Rangers who only made it to the Conference played the same number of games as the Kings
2. The New Jersey Devils played in 24 games which is 4 games more than the Kings.
3. 29 other goalies in the NHL have a higher cap hit than Jonathan Quick (that will be changing)
4. The Kings went 12-2 during their run through the Western Conference during the playoffs. 
5. The Kings are now the third straight Stanley Cup Champions to have started their season in Europe. (2009 Penguins, 2010 Blackhawks and 2011 Bruins)
6. Dustin Brown is just the 2nd American born captain to raise the Cup.
7. The Kings had 25 Canadian players on their roster, 

Sabres Deadline Craze

Trade deadline 2012 has come and gone, and much to the joy of Sabres fans Darcy Regier ACTUALLY made a move. Shocking I know. Despite much talk leading up to the deadline, Roy, Stafford, Miller and Boyes all ended the day with the blue and gold and we weren't able to land Nash, Hemsky or Ryan. So what did Regier manage to do?

I ended up watching the trade deadline coverage from 8 right till 4, and I got a tell you, from 8-2 it was extremely boring, it was like watching a race between paint drying and grass growing! But at 2 stuff started getting interesting, twitter started blowing up as people wanted to catch the last hour of the deadline and with Darcy Regier having not done anything to that point, Sabres fans were panicking. The clock was ticking and it looked like no major trades would happen in Buffalo, and as the analysts pointed out, Regier's asking prices were way to high. We all Knew that no one liked Darcy's players as much as Darcy. Sabres fans were getting ready to burn down First Niagra Centre as nothing had been done, and as the 3 o'clock deadline hit there were still no definitive Sabres moves to report. But due to the crazyness of deadline day, things get backed up at the NHL offices so there was still hope that something (anything) had been done. Then TSN analyst Bob MaCkenzie tweeted saying that no deal had been made for Derek Roy before the deadline, which sent the fans into a further frenzy of anger towards Darcy. Six minutes after the deadline news broke that Paul Gaustad had been traded to Nashville, this deal although not shocking, brought some grief for fans as Gaustad was a huge crowd favorite Buffalo. What was shocking was that Darcy actually got a first round pick in this years draft for the big winger. Although the Sabres attached a forth rounder it was still  steal for the Sabres. I was okay with the Gaustad trade but I was hoping for something bigger, a blockbuster deal of sorts for the Sabres. I waited another half hour and was seconds from turning off the TV, when news broke that Zack Kassian had been traded to Vancouver. My heart skipped a beat as this deal really came out of no where. No one knew Kassian was on the market (truth be told he probably wasn't). But the best part of the Kassian deal, was TSN took forever to tell us who was coming back from Vancouver. They reported that Cody Hodgson had been traded, but everyone believed it was a separate deal. Then finally they put 2 and 2 together and announced that Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani were traded for Cody Hodgson and Alexander Sulzer in two separate deals. Now this was the type of trade I was hoping would be made, as little or insignificant this deal seems it's actually a small blockbuster deal for the Sabres. It was also the biggest trade of the day.

What we got:
The Sabres got a 6-foot forward who was a first round draft pick (2008), and is tied for second in rookie scoring and 5th for rookie points. This fellow Sabres fans would be Cody Hodgson. A kid I am extremely excited to welcome to Buffalo. I have been following Hodgson since before he was drafted (I even played some shinny hockey and practiced with him). As soon as I heard how amazing he was I started following him, wanting to see where he would land. Hodgson is a natural talent, starting back from his days in minor AAA hockey were he racked up 99 points in just 59 games, he knows how to put the puck in the net and is a hard working kid. He played on both the World Junior and under 18 Canadian teams winning gold with both.  You may have heard of a couple of his teammates from those days, Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis. A couple more feathers in his cap so to speak; CHL player of the year and OHL's most outstanding player. Hodgson is having a great first NHL season  in which he already has 33 points (16 goals and 17 assists) and was named rookie of the month in January. This acquisition was amazing and Regier deserves a pat on the back for this one. Hodgson will likely be the number one center of the future that we can build a team around, he has so much upside and potential it's crazy. Imagine if the at the end of the season the Sabres were to have the Calder winner on our team, that would be awesome! Without even playing a game for the blue and gold Hodgson is already 4th in team scoring! This isn't Brad Boyes or even Daniel Briere, this is a legitimate talent whose best days are in front of him.

Sulzer appears to be a big defenceman that can help our blueline. I see this move more as Regier not needing a player but more a complimentary deal in that Gragnani has much more upside than Sulzer. Since the Sabres were able to steal the Canucks prized Hodgson away, I think Regier evened it out with Sulzer. He was drafted back in 2003 in the third round by the Nashville Predators, he's played 74 games with 3 NHL teams (Predators, Panthers and Canucks). As much as I hate bagging on a player, there is really nothing about this guy that says anything more than career call-up, maybe change in scenery will give him a spark but there's no guarantee the Sabres will keep him in the bigs. An interesting note is that the Sabres now have easily the most German nationals in their organization.

In another amazing deal pulled off by Regier he managed to get a first round draft pick for Paul Gaustad!
We now have their first round pick in the upcoming 2012 draft, I'm not a huge fan of draft picks as they don't always work out, but a first-rounder for Gaustad I'll take it! This gives us 4 of the first 44 picks in the 2012 draft. Not too bad, not too bad at all.

What we lost:

Fan favorite Paul Gaustad. I never personally understood all the hype around Gaustad. When he first came up he was a tough gritty player but he has turned into a face off and penalty kill specialist that doesn't really contribute much on the scoreboard. In 7 seasons in Buffalo he's failed to score more than 12 goals or move up from the 3rd line. I'm okay seeing him go and was absolutely shocked we managed a first round pick for him.

Zach Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani, this deal hurts me a bit more as I really liked Kassian and I thought he would have a bright future in Buffalo. But he's an UNPROVEN winger where as Hodgson has been able to prove himself in the NHL. We may have lost grit with Kassian but frankly since his first couple of games he's really looked a bit lost on the ice. We also got smaller but more talented. However, with players like Luke Adam, Marcus Foligno and Brayden McNabb very close to being ready for the show, losing Kassian is worth the gamble. One thing that concerns me is this mostly proves that we're leaning toward a rebuild as we've almost eliminated ourselves from the playoffs this season.
I'm also ok with that because the goal is to win the Stanley Cup, not make the playoffs and as I've said before the current roster did not have what it takes to win it all.

What these trades mean:
These trades mean we're looking ahead to the future, let's face it although it's possible the chances of squeaking into the postseason are slim at best, which is why I believe they traded Gaustad. He would have been a great asset in the post season with his face-off skills and toughness. Right now this team is healthy (or healthier), Miller is playing like Miller again, lines are starting to gel (hands off Ruff!) and this team is playing the kind of hockey everyone expected them to play 62 games ago. We're 5-3-2 in our last 10 games and are battling hard each game, giving themselves a chance to skate away with the two points. I see the moves made at the deadline as a minor rebuild, getting rid of an unproven prospect and a gritty veteran in return for picks and a gem from Vancouver. With the addition of Cody Hodgson and a healthy team next season we are going to be better, and be right back in the playoff hunt and be closer to the cup. Not to overlook the fact we now have 2 first round picks and 2 second round picks for the 2012 draft, these picks can be used to draft prospects OR bundled to bring bigger fish to the Sabres. Imagine sending a couple of picks and a player to Anaheim for Bobby Ryan or Los Angeles for Dustin Brown! This summer could be another active one for Mr. Pegulia's wallet, hopefully Darcy will keep the contracts within reason. We have now filled the void at center and it's now looking like a pretty fantastic center lineup (Roy, Ennis, Hodgson). Darcy Regier pulled a rabbit out of somewhere on Monday with these deals, and likely saved his job until next season. We are building toward a cup, and to be honest I could see us winning one in the next few seasons!

Sabres Deadline Craze

Trade deadline 2012 has come and gone, and much to the joy of Sabres fans Darcy Regier ACTUALLY made a move. Shocking I know. Despite much talk leading up to the deadline, Roy, Stafford, Miller and Boyes all ended the day with the blue and gold and we weren't able to land Nash, Hemsky or Ryan. So what did Regier manage to do?

I ended up watching the trade deadline coverage from 8 right till 4, and I got a tell you, from 8-2 it was extremely boring, it was like watching a race between paint drying and grass growing! But at 2 stuff started getting interesting, twitter started blowing up as people wanted to catch the last hour of the deadline and with Darcy Regier having not done anything to that point, Sabres fans were panicking. The clock was ticking and it looked like no major trades would happen in Buffalo, and as the analysts pointed out, Regier's asking prices were way to high. We all Knew that no one liked Darcy's players as much as Darcy. Sabres fans were getting ready to burn down First Niagra Centre as nothing had been done, and as the 3 o'clock deadline hit there were still no definitive Sabres moves to report. But due to the crazyness of deadline day, things get backed up at the NHL offices so there was still hope that something (anything) had been done. Then TSN analyst Bob MaCkenzie tweeted saying that no deal had been made for Derek Roy before the deadline, which sent the fans into a further frenzy of anger towards Darcy. Six minutes after the deadline news broke that Paul Gaustad had been traded to Nashville, this deal although not shocking, brought some grief for fans as Gaustad was a huge crowd favorite Buffalo. What was shocking was that Darcy actually got a first round pick in this years draft for the big winger. Although the Sabres attached a forth rounder it was still  steal for the Sabres. I was okay with the Gaustad trade but I was hoping for something bigger, a blockbuster deal of sorts for the Sabres. I waited another half hour and was seconds from turning off the TV, when news broke that Zack Kassian had been traded to Vancouver. My heart skipped a beat as this deal really came out of no where. No one knew Kassian was on the market (truth be told he probably wasn't). But the best part of the Kassian deal, was TSN took forever to tell us who was coming back from Vancouver. They reported that Cody Hodgson had been traded, but everyone believed it was a separate deal. Then finally they put 2 and 2 together and announced that Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani were traded for Cody Hodgson and Alexander Sulzer in two separate deals. Now this was the type of trade I was hoping would be made, as little or insignificant this deal seems it's actually a small blockbuster deal for the Sabres. It was also the biggest trade of the day.

What we got:
The Sabres got a 6-foot forward who was a first round draft pick (2008), and is tied for second in rookie scoring and 5th for rookie points. This fellow Sabres fans would be Cody Hodgson. A kid I am extremely excited to welcome to Buffalo. I have been following Hodgson since before he was drafted (I even played some shinny hockey and practiced with him). As soon as I heard how amazing he was I started following him, wanting to see where he would land. Hodgson is a natural talent, starting back from his days in minor AAA hockey were he racked up 99 points in just 59 games, he knows how to put the puck in the net and is a hard working kid. He played on both the World Junior and under 18 Canadian teams winning gold with both.  You may have heard of a couple of his teammates from those days, Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis. A couple more feathers in his cap so to speak; CHL player of the year and OHL's most outstanding player. Hodgson is having a great first NHL season  in which he already has 33 points (16 goals and 17 assists) and was named rookie of the month in January. This acquisition was amazing and Regier deserves a pat on the back for this one. Hodgson will likely be the number one center of the future that we can build a team around, he has so much upside and potential it's crazy. Imagine if the at the end of the season the Sabres were to have the Calder winner on our team, that would be awesome! Without even playing a game for the blue and gold Hodgson is already 4th in team scoring! This isn't Brad Boyes or even Daniel Briere, this is a legitimate talent whose best days are in front of him.

Sulzer appears to be a big defenceman that can help our blueline. I see this move more as Regier not needing a player but more a complimentary deal in that Gragnani has much more upside than Sulzer. Since the Sabres were able to steal the Canucks prized Hodgson away, I think Regier evened it out with Sulzer. He was drafted back in 2003 in the third round by the Nashville Predators, he's played 74 games with 3 NHL teams (Predators, Panthers and Canucks). As much as I hate bagging on a player, there is really nothing about this guy that says anything more than career call-up, maybe change in scenery will give him a spark but there's no guarantee the Sabres will keep him in the bigs. An interesting note is that the Sabres now have easily the most German nationals in their organization.

In another amazing deal pulled off by Regier he managed to get a first round draft pick for Paul Gaustad!
We now have their first round pick in the upcoming 2012 draft, I'm not a huge fan of draft picks as they don't always work out, but a first-rounder for Gaustad I'll take it! This gives us 4 of the first 44 picks in the 2012 draft. Not too bad, not too bad at all.

What we lost:

Fan favorite Paul Gaustad. I never personally understood all the hype around Gaustad. When he first came up he was a tough gritty player but he has turned into a face off and penalty kill specialist that doesn't really contribute much on the scoreboard. In 7 seasons in Buffalo he's failed to score more than 12 goals or move up from the 3rd line. I'm okay seeing him go and was absolutely shocked we managed a first round pick for him.

Zach Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani, this deal hurts me a bit more as I really liked Kassian and I thought he would have a bright future in Buffalo. But he's an UNPROVEN winger where as Hodgson has been able to prove himself in the NHL. We may have lost grit with Kassian but frankly since his first couple of games he's really looked a bit lost on the ice. We also got smaller but more talented. However, with players like Luke Adam, Marcus Foligno and Brayden McNabb very close to being ready for the show, losing Kassian is worth the gamble. One thing that concerns me is this mostly proves that we're leaning toward a rebuild as we've almost eliminated ourselves from the playoffs this season.
I'm also ok with that because the goal is to win the Stanley Cup, not make the playoffs and as I've said before the current roster did not have what it takes to win it all.

What these trades mean:
These trades mean we're looking ahead to the future, let's face it although it's possible the chances of squeaking into the postseason are slim at best, which is why I believe they traded Gaustad. He would have been a great asset in the post season with his face-off skills and toughness. Right now this team is healthy (or healthier), Miller is playing like Miller again, lines are starting to gel (hands off Ruff!) and this team is playing the kind of hockey everyone expected them to play 62 games ago. We're 5-3-2 in our last 10 games and are battling hard each game, giving themselves a chance to skate away with the two points. I see the moves made at the deadline as a minor rebuild, getting rid of an unproven prospect and a gritty veteran in return for picks and a gem from Vancouver. With the addition of Cody Hodgson and a healthy team next season we are going to be better, and be right back in the playoff hunt and be closer to the cup. Not to overlook the fact we now have 2 first round picks and 2 second round picks for the 2012 draft, these picks can be used to draft prospects OR bundled to bring bigger fish to the Sabres. Imagine sending a couple of picks and a player to Anaheim for Bobby Ryan or Los Angeles for Dustin Brown! This summer could be another active one for Mr. Pegulia's wallet, hopefully Darcy will keep the contracts within reason. We have now filled the void at center and it's now looking like a pretty fantastic center lineup (Roy, Ennis, Hodgson). Darcy Regier pulled a rabbit out of somewhere on Monday with these deals, and likely saved his job until next season. We are building toward a cup, and to be honest I could see us winning one in the next few seasons!

NHL TradeDeadline 2012

Today was the NHL Trade deadline, a day hockey fans have been awaiting and anticipating for months. Finally all the rumors will have answers, some will stay just rumors while others will actually become real NHL deals. But at noon, I for one was hoping you guys did not take the day off work or school to sit in front of your TV's and watch TSN's trade deadline, it was extremely boring. Only 1 trade was made before 12: The Montreal Canadians traded Andrei Kostitsyn to the Nashville Predators in exchange for a couple of draft picks. But by 2:30 the trades really started to pick up and the 2012 trade deadline ended with 15 trades, that included 31 players and 11 draft picks.

So before I dive in and look at the trades made today and some of the trades made in the last week, let's just take a moment to think about a couple things. First of all these GM's are some of the smartest people both in and out of the hockey world, most of them know what they need to improve their team. Sure some are a little stubborn to pull the trigger on the deal, but they know what their doing. They don't need us jumping up and down and going crazy, telling them who to acquire and calling them dumb or stupid because they're not making a deal that appeases us. Like I said in previous blog, until you become a GM of an NHL hockey team or one of those dumb TSN analysts don't critize what you don't know! Second of all yes it's awesome seeing your team's GM making a big splash by trading players, but sometimes what we overlook is the fact that the players are people too. I understand hockey is a business, but the trade deadline is extremely difficult for the players. Having their names being thrown in rumors, knowing your "boss" is shopping you around, the possibility of being traded and leaving your wife and kids behind, you gotta admit that's rough. While it's cool to want players moved and want GM's to make moves, we have to take in to account that the GM's are playing with the lives of their players. They can't in all fairness to the players, just yank and turn your players lives upside down because the wind changed direction. I know this my all seem like nonsense to some of you, but it's something I truly believe the GM's take into account. A player isn't going to want to go play for a GM who doesn't care about their players.

Deals from the deadline;
Montreal Canadians trade Andrei Kostitsyn to the Nashville Predator in exchange for a 2nd and 5th round pick in 2013.
This was the very first trade that broke on the "official" deadline day. This deal reunites Andrei with younger brother Sergi and gives him a fresh start/a chance to battle for a playoff start. Kostitsyn had just 12 goals and 24 assists this season. I'd say the Predators won the trade.

Detroit Red Wings trade Mike Commodore to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for a 7th round pick in 2013.
This trade surprised a lot of people and it seemed like Detroit was trying to clear cap space to acquire Paul Gaustad, but this proved to be the only deal the Red Wings made the entire day. To be honest I didn't even know Mike Commodore was still in the NHL, so this came out of left field for me. Commodore has only played 17 games this season. I don't really understand this deal, but I suppose if there is a winner here, the Lightning won this deal.

Edmonton Oilers trade Tom Gilbert to the Minossota Wild in exchange for Nick Schultz.
I don't follow the Western Conference that much so I'm not really aware of these players. From what the analysts say this was a wash, an offensive D-man for a defensive one. But I believe the Edmonton Oilers won the trade, as they added some stability to their team.

Toronto Maple Leafs trade Keith Aulie to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Carter Ashton.

This was a fantastic move by Brian Burke. There was no room on the Leafs blue line for Keith Aulie, so they had to get rid of a defenseman somewhere along the line. I really like this deal as this Carter kid looks like he could be a fantastic player (although I didn't know who he was). Right now the Lightning have won the deal, as Ashton will be in the Marlies until next season while Aulie will get more ice time up in the NHL.

The first multiplayer deal of the day; Colorado Avalanche trade Daniel Winnik, T.J Galiardi and 7th round pick in 2013 to the San Jose sharks in exchange for Jamie McGinn, Michael Sgarbossa and Mike Connolly.

San Jose won this deal in my mind, anytime you can get T.J Galiardi and Daniel Winnik and not give up a whole lot it's got to benefit your team. This was the first major deal, where things on the TSN set started to go crazy. This trade will help improve the Sharks penalty killing

Vancouver Canucks trade two 4th round draft picks in 2012 to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Samuel Pahlsson.
This trade is all about the Columbus Blue Jackets rebuild by gaining picks for the future. Pahlsson has 2 goals and 9 assists in 61 games. Vancouver definitely won this trade.

Ottawa Senators trade Brian Lee to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Matt Gilroy
The Senators have pretty much given up on Lee. He was drafted 9th overall in the 2005 NHL draft and has just 1 goal and 7 assists in 35 games this season. Lee wasn't able to live up to his draft hype and should benefit from a change in scenery. Gilroy played 53 games and has 2 goals and 15 assists. Nothing major here, just some 3rd or 4th liners changing places.

Winnipeg Jets trade Johnny Oduya to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2nd and 3rd round pick in 2013.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the Blackhawks won this deal hands down. The 30 year old Oduya is a veteran defenceman who is a solid addition to the Blackhawks struggling back end.

Boston Bruins trade Marc Cantin and Yannick Riendeau to the New York Islanders in exchange for Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau.
The Bruins won this trade as they added lots of depth and will hope push them back to the Stanley Cup Finals. Getting Brian Rolston back on the Bruins is really a hit and miss, he could regain his form playing with some exceptional players, but he could also totally flop.

Buffalo Sabres trade Paul Gaustad and a 4th round pick to the Nashville Predators in exchange for a first round draft pick.
I absolutely loved this move!!! Some how, Sabres GM Darcy Regier managed to pull a rabbit out of a hat to get a first round pick for Paul Gaustad! Everyone said the asking price was way too high for Gaustad (which it was), but somehow Regier got it done! Absolutely fantastic deal that the Sabres obviously won. Although all the fans are sad to see Gaustad go, this will help the Sabres in the future, especially with the deal that they made a few minutes later.

Boston Bruins trade Steve Kampfer to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Greg Zanon.
This was another minor deal nothing to major, Zanon will add some more grit to the Bruins (Like they need it!).
The Bruins seem to have the slight edge in this deal.

Chicago Blackhawks trade John Scott to the New York Rangers in exchange for a 5th round pick in 2012.
Although this seems like a minor minimal deal as Scott doesn't score a lot, but he is 6 foot 7, 270 pounds, he will help in the playoffs by forcing players away from his goaltender. All he has to do is lean on a player and that player won't be going anywhere. Great addition to the Rangers, who won this deal.

Buffalo Sabres trade Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Cody Hodgson and Alexandra Sulzer.
This was quite possibly the biggest trade of the day and by far the best (sorry I'm biased). This deal works perfectly for the Sabres, we got our future number 1 centre to build the team around. Although it comes at the expense of losing Kassian, this deal will help the Sabres in the future. A position of weakness now a positions of strength? Hodgson, Roy and Ennis are now the top 3 centers, add Adam and the future is suddenly different to the Blue and Gold up the middle. For those lamenting losing Kassian't toughness, remember Marcus Foligno and Brayden McNbb are more than capable of matching up with anyone. Unfortunately what this means for Sabres fans, is the Sabres aren't necessarily trying to make that push to the playoffs but rather building for a couple of years in the future. That's also known as trying to win the Stanley Cup, not just get a couple of more house receipts during the playoffs. I personally believe the Sabres have won this deal and have ultimately won the Trade deadline and Darcy Regier is the Trade deadline winning GM!

Toronto Maple Leafs trade Dale Mitchell to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Mark Frasier.
This was just a minor league deal and has no real implications to the major league teams at this moment.
Just moving depth in the minors.

The final deal was between the Anaheim Ducks and Vancouver Canucks. Who exchanged two minor players. The Canucks got Andrew Gordon while the Ducks acquired Sebastian Erixon.


The trade deadline started off really slowely as deals didn't start rolling till around 2pm. Most of the big names did not get moved; Rick Nash, Luke Schenn, and Derek Roy all ended up staying put. The Big trade of the day, was between the Buffalo Sabres and Vancouver Canucks. Ultimately I think the Sabres won the trade deadline, as they got a first round pick for Gaustad and managed to snatch Cody Hodgson out of Vancouver. All in all a fairly decent trade deadline, especially if you're a Sabres, Canucks or Predators fan. Brian Burke surprised and angered Leaf fans by not making more moves and "sticking to the Blueprint" of his current team.
We'll have to wait a while longer to see how the deals that were made today turn out!

NHL TradeDeadline 2012

Today was the NHL Trade deadline, a day hockey fans have been awaiting and anticipating for months. Finally all the rumors will have answers, some will stay just rumors while others will actually become real NHL deals. But at noon, I for one was hoping you guys did not take the day off work or school to sit in front of your TV's and watch TSN's trade deadline, it was extremely boring. Only 1 trade was made before 12: The Montreal Canadians traded Andrei Kostitsyn to the Nashville Predators in exchange for a couple of draft picks. But by 2:30 the trades really started to pick up and the 2012 trade deadline ended with 15 trades, that included 31 players and 11 draft picks.

So before I dive in and look at the trades made today and some of the trades made in the last week, let's just take a moment to think about a couple things. First of all these GM's are some of the smartest people both in and out of the hockey world, most of them know what they need to improve their team. Sure some are a little stubborn to pull the trigger on the deal, but they know what their doing. They don't need us jumping up and down and going crazy, telling them who to acquire and calling them dumb or stupid because they're not making a deal that appeases us. Like I said in previous blog, until you become a GM of an NHL hockey team or one of those dumb TSN analysts don't critize what you don't know! Second of all yes it's awesome seeing your team's GM making a big splash by trading players, but sometimes what we overlook is the fact that the players are people too. I understand hockey is a business, but the trade deadline is extremely difficult for the players. Having their names being thrown in rumors, knowing your "boss" is shopping you around, the possibility of being traded and leaving your wife and kids behind, you gotta admit that's rough. While it's cool to want players moved and want GM's to make moves, we have to take in to account that the GM's are playing with the lives of their players. They can't in all fairness to the players, just yank and turn your players lives upside down because the wind changed direction. I know this my all seem like nonsense to some of you, but it's something I truly believe the GM's take into account. A player isn't going to want to go play for a GM who doesn't care about their players.

Deals from the deadline;
Montreal Canadians trade Andrei Kostitsyn to the Nashville Predator in exchange for a 2nd and 5th round pick in 2013.
This was the very first trade that broke on the "official" deadline day. This deal reunites Andrei with younger brother Sergi and gives him a fresh start/a chance to battle for a playoff start. Kostitsyn had just 12 goals and 24 assists this season. I'd say the Predators won the trade.

Detroit Red Wings trade Mike Commodore to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for a 7th round pick in 2013.
This trade surprised a lot of people and it seemed like Detroit was trying to clear cap space to acquire Paul Gaustad, but this proved to be the only deal the Red Wings made the entire day. To be honest I didn't even know Mike Commodore was still in the NHL, so this came out of left field for me. Commodore has only played 17 games this season. I don't really understand this deal, but I suppose if there is a winner here, the Lightning won this deal.

Edmonton Oilers trade Tom Gilbert to the Minossota Wild in exchange for Nick Schultz.
I don't follow the Western Conference that much so I'm not really aware of these players. From what the analysts say this was a wash, an offensive D-man for a defensive one. But I believe the Edmonton Oilers won the trade, as they added some stability to their team.

Toronto Maple Leafs trade Keith Aulie to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Carter Ashton.

This was a fantastic move by Brian Burke. There was no room on the Leafs blue line for Keith Aulie, so they had to get rid of a defenseman somewhere along the line. I really like this deal as this Carter kid looks like he could be a fantastic player (although I didn't know who he was). Right now the Lightning have won the deal, as Ashton will be in the Marlies until next season while Aulie will get more ice time up in the NHL.

The first multiplayer deal of the day; Colorado Avalanche trade Daniel Winnik, T.J Galiardi and 7th round pick in 2013 to the San Jose sharks in exchange for Jamie McGinn, Michael Sgarbossa and Mike Connolly.

San Jose won this deal in my mind, anytime you can get T.J Galiardi and Daniel Winnik and not give up a whole lot it's got to benefit your team. This was the first major deal, where things on the TSN set started to go crazy. This trade will help improve the Sharks penalty killing

Vancouver Canucks trade two 4th round draft picks in 2012 to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Samuel Pahlsson.
This trade is all about the Columbus Blue Jackets rebuild by gaining picks for the future. Pahlsson has 2 goals and 9 assists in 61 games. Vancouver definitely won this trade.

Ottawa Senators trade Brian Lee to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for Matt Gilroy
The Senators have pretty much given up on Lee. He was drafted 9th overall in the 2005 NHL draft and has just 1 goal and 7 assists in 35 games this season. Lee wasn't able to live up to his draft hype and should benefit from a change in scenery. Gilroy played 53 games and has 2 goals and 15 assists. Nothing major here, just some 3rd or 4th liners changing places.

Winnipeg Jets trade Johnny Oduya to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a 2nd and 3rd round pick in 2013.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the Blackhawks won this deal hands down. The 30 year old Oduya is a veteran defenceman who is a solid addition to the Blackhawks struggling back end.

Boston Bruins trade Marc Cantin and Yannick Riendeau to the New York Islanders in exchange for Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau.
The Bruins won this trade as they added lots of depth and will hope push them back to the Stanley Cup Finals. Getting Brian Rolston back on the Bruins is really a hit and miss, he could regain his form playing with some exceptional players, but he could also totally flop.

Buffalo Sabres trade Paul Gaustad and a 4th round pick to the Nashville Predators in exchange for a first round draft pick.
I absolutely loved this move!!! Some how, Sabres GM Darcy Regier managed to pull a rabbit out of a hat to get a first round pick for Paul Gaustad! Everyone said the asking price was way too high for Gaustad (which it was), but somehow Regier got it done! Absolutely fantastic deal that the Sabres obviously won. Although all the fans are sad to see Gaustad go, this will help the Sabres in the future, especially with the deal that they made a few minutes later.

Boston Bruins trade Steve Kampfer to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for Greg Zanon.
This was another minor deal nothing to major, Zanon will add some more grit to the Bruins (Like they need it!).
The Bruins seem to have the slight edge in this deal.

Chicago Blackhawks trade John Scott to the New York Rangers in exchange for a 5th round pick in 2012.
Although this seems like a minor minimal deal as Scott doesn't score a lot, but he is 6 foot 7, 270 pounds, he will help in the playoffs by forcing players away from his goaltender. All he has to do is lean on a player and that player won't be going anywhere. Great addition to the Rangers, who won this deal.

Buffalo Sabres trade Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Cody Hodgson and Alexandra Sulzer.
This was quite possibly the biggest trade of the day and by far the best (sorry I'm biased). This deal works perfectly for the Sabres, we got our future number 1 centre to build the team around. Although it comes at the expense of losing Kassian, this deal will help the Sabres in the future. A position of weakness now a positions of strength? Hodgson, Roy and Ennis are now the top 3 centers, add Adam and the future is suddenly different to the Blue and Gold up the middle. For those lamenting losing Kassian't toughness, remember Marcus Foligno and Brayden McNbb are more than capable of matching up with anyone. Unfortunately what this means for Sabres fans, is the Sabres aren't necessarily trying to make that push to the playoffs but rather building for a couple of years in the future. That's also known as trying to win the Stanley Cup, not just get a couple of more house receipts during the playoffs. I personally believe the Sabres have won this deal and have ultimately won the Trade deadline and Darcy Regier is the Trade deadline winning GM!

Toronto Maple Leafs trade Dale Mitchell to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Mark Frasier.
This was just a minor league deal and has no real implications to the major league teams at this moment.
Just moving depth in the minors.

The final deal was between the Anaheim Ducks and Vancouver Canucks. Who exchanged two minor players. The Canucks got Andrew Gordon while the Ducks acquired Sebastian Erixon.


The trade deadline started off really slowely as deals didn't start rolling till around 2pm. Most of the big names did not get moved; Rick Nash, Luke Schenn, and Derek Roy all ended up staying put. The Big trade of the day, was between the Buffalo Sabres and Vancouver Canucks. Ultimately I think the Sabres won the trade deadline, as they got a first round pick for Gaustad and managed to snatch Cody Hodgson out of Vancouver. All in all a fairly decent trade deadline, especially if you're a Sabres, Canucks or Predators fan. Brian Burke surprised and angered Leaf fans by not making more moves and "sticking to the Blueprint" of his current team.
We'll have to wait a while longer to see how the deals that were made today turn out!

Increasing trade value

Like I've said many times in previous blogs, it's no secret the Sabres have been struggling this season and because of those struggles the Sabres are likely to be sellers this trade deadline. One of the players who has been struggling most of the season is Derek Roy, but on Sunday in Buffalo against the Penguins (a game I had the pleasure of attending) Roy possibly had his best game since returning from injury last year. He scored twice and added an assist in aiding the Sabres to a 6-2 thumping of the Penguins. He was also named the first star of the game (an honor that could have easily gone to Ryan Miller).
But lately, the struggling Derek Roy has been picking up his play, which is good news for Sabres fans and Sabres management as this is undoubtedly helping increase his trade value.

The Sabres drafted Roy back in 2001 and he has been a solid player, but in the last year of his $4 million contract it is possible that his days in Buffalo are numbered. The Sabres have been shopping Roy around and are more than willing to trade him. But with him riding a 4 game point streak and just notching his 34th point of the season, why trade him if they can't get anything decent in return? With Roy starting to play like his old self the Sabres are no longer desperate to trade him. Not to mention Roy wants to stay in Buffalo, this team is finally starting to play. Players are coming back from injuries, big contract players are starting to earn their money, and Miller is playing like Miller again. But if this team is healthy next season are they going to be dangerous? Heck if they manage to squeak into the playoffs do they stand a decent chance to exceed expectations?

It came as a bit of a surprise to most that Roy found himself on the top line with Thomas Vanek and Jason Pominville, but this move was originally just to showcase him to help get some more attention, score some points and get a deal done. But the unusual threesome seems to have some chemistry, so why trade Roy when he is enjoying success on the top line? Part of the reason Roy was not having much success this season, was his status on the depth chart, which also has been hurting his trade value. Instead of playing with Vanek and Pominville, Head Coach Lindy Ruff decided to bury him on the third line with newly acquired Ville Leino and veteran Drew Stafford. Roy is a decent playmaking center who thrives outside the number 1 line, so it would make sense if he was traded to a team that needs a winger who likes to dish the puck. The fact that he plays center is an asset for the Sabres, most teams are eyeing Blue Jackets center Rick Nash. However, 29 teams want Nash, but there is only 1 of him to go around, so the Sabres could get lucky and find teams that lose the bid for Nash over reaching for Roy. He's a veteran and a potential point a game player who would be a solid second liner on any team and a stop-gap liner on some (Like the Sabres). Now I may be biased but Derek Roy is the second best center on the market, behind Nash.

But the Sabres don't necessarily have to trade Roy, he's got two 70 point seasons and 3 seasons with at least 30 points. He can produce, when he's paired with the right wingers. The Sabres are currently 6 points out of 8th and have gone 7-3-2 in their last 12 games, Derek Roy's resurgence has definitely helped turn around this Sabres team, Roy has 2 goals and 5 assists during this stretch. So If Darcy Reiger can't get anything decent in return for Derek Roy, then he should hold onto him. With Roy playing well it gives Reiger the upper hand, if he doesn't receive any decent offers he can keep Roy and not regret it. However, as most Sabres fans know, decent return to Reiger mens something different than what it means to other GMs.  Having Roy centering Vanek and Pominville seems to be working, he's always had chemistry with his long time Sabres teammates. So if someone needs to spike Lindy Ruffs coffee to make sure he doesn't screw up this chemistry then so be it! But back to the Roy trade, what Reigier should be asking for is a solid NHL ready player and a high draft pick, not just draft picks that we have to wait 3 years to see how good/bad they will be. For teams that want to compete and win the cup, they don't trade for the long term future they trade for now, a player that can help push the team into the playoffs.

Any team would be more than happy to acquire Derek Roy, which is good news for the Sabres as we control what can and will happen to Roy. He's tough 2 way hockey player that can put up 60 points, plays the penalty kill and would fit nicely on any teams 2nd line. Although the present isn't nice to look at it, it's his history, always been a solid leader and playmaker. Roy picking up his play does two things for the Sabres; it makes Roy's trade value go up, as teams see he still has what it takes to be a solid player/playmaker. It also gives the Sabres the option to keep Roy. I'm extremely excited to see what the Sabres will do come trade deadline, If I was the GM I would ship Roy out of town, I think a change in scenery would be great for him. Plus I'd net a solid player and a good pick in return that will help the team make a push to the playoffs.
But when push comes to shove, we'll just have to wait and see what Darcy Regier has planned for Derek Roy, is he part of the Sabres future?

Increasing trade value

Like I've said many times in previous blogs, it's no secret the Sabres have been struggling this season and because of those struggles the Sabres are likely to be sellers this trade deadline. One of the players who has been struggling most of the season is Derek Roy, but on Sunday in Buffalo against the Penguins (a game I had the pleasure of attending) Roy possibly had his best game since returning from injury last year. He scored twice and added an assist in aiding the Sabres to a 6-2 thumping of the Penguins. He was also named the first star of the game (an honor that could have easily gone to Ryan Miller).
But lately, the struggling Derek Roy has been picking up his play, which is good news for Sabres fans and Sabres management as this is undoubtedly helping increase his trade value.

The Sabres drafted Roy back in 2001 and he has been a solid player, but in the last year of his $4 million contract it is possible that his days in Buffalo are numbered. The Sabres have been shopping Roy around and are more than willing to trade him. But with him riding a 4 game point streak and just notching his 34th point of the season, why trade him if they can't get anything decent in return? With Roy starting to play like his old self the Sabres are no longer desperate to trade him. Not to mention Roy wants to stay in Buffalo, this team is finally starting to play. Players are coming back from injuries, big contract players are starting to earn their money, and Miller is playing like Miller again. But if this team is healthy next season are they going to be dangerous? Heck if they manage to squeak into the playoffs do they stand a decent chance to exceed expectations?

It came as a bit of a surprise to most that Roy found himself on the top line with Thomas Vanek and Jason Pominville, but this move was originally just to showcase him to help get some more attention, score some points and get a deal done. But the unusual threesome seems to have some chemistry, so why trade Roy when he is enjoying success on the top line? Part of the reason Roy was not having much success this season, was his status on the depth chart, which also has been hurting his trade value. Instead of playing with Vanek and Pominville, Head Coach Lindy Ruff decided to bury him on the third line with newly acquired Ville Leino and veteran Drew Stafford. Roy is a decent playmaking center who thrives outside the number 1 line, so it would make sense if he was traded to a team that needs a winger who likes to dish the puck. The fact that he plays center is an asset for the Sabres, most teams are eyeing Blue Jackets center Rick Nash. However, 29 teams want Nash, but there is only 1 of him to go around, so the Sabres could get lucky and find teams that lose the bid for Nash over reaching for Roy. He's a veteran and a potential point a game player who would be a solid second liner on any team and a stop-gap liner on some (Like the Sabres). Now I may be biased but Derek Roy is the second best center on the market, behind Nash.

But the Sabres don't necessarily have to trade Roy, he's got two 70 point seasons and 3 seasons with at least 30 points. He can produce, when he's paired with the right wingers. The Sabres are currently 6 points out of 8th and have gone 7-3-2 in their last 12 games, Derek Roy's resurgence has definitely helped turn around this Sabres team, Roy has 2 goals and 5 assists during this stretch. So If Darcy Reiger can't get anything decent in return for Derek Roy, then he should hold onto him. With Roy playing well it gives Reiger the upper hand, if he doesn't receive any decent offers he can keep Roy and not regret it. However, as most Sabres fans know, decent return to Reiger mens something different than what it means to other GMs.  Having Roy centering Vanek and Pominville seems to be working, he's always had chemistry with his long time Sabres teammates. So if someone needs to spike Lindy Ruffs coffee to make sure he doesn't screw up this chemistry then so be it! But back to the Roy trade, what Reigier should be asking for is a solid NHL ready player and a high draft pick, not just draft picks that we have to wait 3 years to see how good/bad they will be. For teams that want to compete and win the cup, they don't trade for the long term future they trade for now, a player that can help push the team into the playoffs.

Any team would be more than happy to acquire Derek Roy, which is good news for the Sabres as we control what can and will happen to Roy. He's tough 2 way hockey player that can put up 60 points, plays the penalty kill and would fit nicely on any teams 2nd line. Although the present isn't nice to look at it, it's his history, always been a solid leader and playmaker. Roy picking up his play does two things for the Sabres; it makes Roy's trade value go up, as teams see he still has what it takes to be a solid player/playmaker. It also gives the Sabres the option to keep Roy. I'm extremely excited to see what the Sabres will do come trade deadline, If I was the GM I would ship Roy out of town, I think a change in scenery would be great for him. Plus I'd net a solid player and a good pick in return that will help the team make a push to the playoffs.
But when push comes to shove, we'll just have to wait and see what Darcy Regier has planned for Derek Roy, is he part of the Sabres future?

Champions on the move

After winning the Stanley Cup and having most of their team return this season, the Bruins were expected to do well again this season and perhaps repeat as the Stanley Cup champions. The Bruins haven't been playing their best hockey over the last month, going 4-6-0 in the last 10 games. But it doesn't mean the Bruins need to panic and start trading their players, heck they're still in second place in the east and have Tim Thomas backing them up between the pipes so there is no need to panic.

So who would the Bruins be willing to trade;
Joe Corvo
Despite Corvo being a long serving veteran his play in his own end has been horrible this season. He also has not been able to get any real chemistry going on Defence as he doesn't mix well with the Bruins defence system. But if the Bruins are unable to get anything decent for Corvo they will likely let him walk in June.

Tukka Rask

Rask is one of the players you include on the list, but with an asterisk. I strongly believe that the Bruins will NOT trade Rask. He is the future of their club and ready to be a number one goaltender, when Thomas i gone. The only way the Bruins would even think of parting with their future tender, is if they get a superstar player in return; Rick Nash. But the Bruins are likely keeping Rask who could find himself as the starting goalie as early as next season.

Tim Thomas
Like it or not Thomas screwed up the Bruins chemistry when he skipped out on the White House visit. After the incident, the Bruins went 3-5 and I believe the dressing room got messed up. There is no question Thomas is a great goalie; a two time Vezina winner and a Conn Smythe trophy winner, but the Bruins don't necessarily need him. Rask is more than ready to take the starting job and run with it. Thomas won't be gone before the February 27th deadline, but if the Bruins don't make it to the Eastern Conference championships this postseason, they will likely look for other options for Thomas; a trade, a buy out or make him the backup.

But in all seriousness, there really aren't many players that the Bruins are willing to trade at the moment.
Horton and Peverly are hurt, Seguin is too valuable, you don't want to start trading star prospects like Dougie Hamilton without seeing them. So it's a catch 22 for the Bruins, they need some help with scoring and perhaps a little extra help on the back end but making a trade and messing with chemistry is risky.

Milan Lucic and David Krejci are a couple of names being thrown around for some minor deals, but it's looking like the Bruins won't rely on any trades to jump start their roster and make a push for a second championship.

Some players the Bruins are looking to acquire.

They are looking for a veteran forward and have three players they are looking at; Ray Whitney, Mike Knuble and Tuomo Ruutu. The Bruins who have been scoring in bunches this season, have seen that scoring power dry up. They need some help with the offence and a seasoned veteran to help calm the young rookies. The best fit for the Bruins is Ray Whitney, he is a veteran that can score and play on the top line. He can also add some much needed leadership to this young Bruins team.
Whitney is a free agent at the end of the season, and could net the Coyotee's a solid return player or some prospects.
Mike Knuble would also help add a veteran presence for the Bruins. He has also been a member of the Bruins in the past, and is on the outs in Washington.

Rick Nash
The Bruins have shown some interest in acquire Rick Nash, heck who hasn't?
But what the Blue Jackets want in a goaltender, the Bruins got one in Rask but it is unlikely they are willing to part with him. Let's say the Bruins somehow got around the goalie thing, they'd still have to give up some combo of players including; Tyler Seguin, Dougie Hamilton, Milan Lucic or Adam McQuaid players the Bruins would prefer to keep.

The Bruins need a veteran presence preferably a forward, as all their top 6 forwards are under the age of 26. They are a fantastic hockey team no doubt, but they need the older guy in the room to help calm down the young kids. When things go bad they really go bad which is where teams with veterans benefit as the veterans calm everyone down. With the injuries to Horton and Peverly the Bruins need to make a move, but it is uncertain who the Bruins are heavily pursuing.