The Real Deal and the Pretenders: The NHL

The Real Deals

LA Kings:
Their hot start has continued and with a third of the NHL season in the books they are still marching into the playoffs. In their last 10 games they have a record 7-2-1, only the Vancouver Canucks and Minnesota wild have as good of a record in the last 10(western Conference). The record on the road for the black, blue and gray shows that they are getting the job done when the going gets tough. They have as many road wins as the Flames, Sharks, Penguins and Devils. All cup contenders and obviously good company, the kings WILL keep this going and in the playoffs may be over-looked as a contender. No Ryan Smyth, a slumping Anze Kopitar? No Problem.

Buffalo Sabres:
A goalie who plays as well as Ryan Miller every night can keep you in every game, allowing a chance to win. Ryan Miller has to be considered the front runner for the Vezina and may give Team USA the goaltending it needs, allowing them to focus on their high powered offense and being a real force in the Olympics. The Sabres have won 4 straight and are 8-2-0 in their last 10, they are for real in the regular season. The Playoffs? I guess we will have to wait and see.

Bubble:
Colorado Avalanche

Pretenders:

Atlanta Thrashers:
Sure it’s a contract year for Kovalchuk, but this team will not stay in the playoff picture for much longer. A Euro based team struggles with consistency, the month of December has definitely been an interesting one:
Dec.3 – NYI 4- ATL 1 a HOME loss to the Islanders
Dec.5 – ATL 2- FLA 1 a shootout win over the Panthers, talk about a squeaker
Dec.7 – TOR 5- ATL 2 bundled by the leafs and Kessel not much of a factor..ouch
Dec.9 – CAL3 – ATL 1 an obvious loss for most teams, except the real deals
Dec.10- VAN 4 – ATL 2 Not going to score more than 2 on Luongo without Kovi
Dec.12- ATL 4- MTL 3 an OT win
Dec.14- ATL 3 – NYR 2 Another shootout win

That makes 3 wins so far in December; 2 shootout wins and an OT win. These were against Florida, Montreal and New York. Atlanta is a team ready to fall.

Montreal Canadiens:
Sporting a record of 3-5-2 in the last 10 is not a way to keep a playoff spot. They are tied for 8th in the eastern conference with Florida and are only one win up on the rest of the eastern conference (talk about close). Oh wait I forgot the Hurricanes are 13 points behind them, 11 points behind the rest.
Gionta is out, Markov done and wasting a rare 3 point effort by a Andrei Kostitsyn on Saturday (to the Thrashers) has shown they will be falling quickly.

Bubble:
Phoenix Coyotes

“Let it snow. Let it snow, let it snow”

Juiced

It's certainly come to a point where I have heard enough about steroid use in Major League Baseball. The recent reports of former Boston Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez, and current Red Sox DH David Ortiz testing positive for now banned substances in 2003 has been the final straw. These reports have circulated a few short weeks after Ramirez had just finished serving a 50 game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance, to improve his mini-Manny's performance.


Here's the problem I have with these names becoming public knowledge. It happened in 2003, and during that time, these performance-enhancing drugs were not banned. Now, MLB commissioner Bud Selig has done an admirable job in developing a new program to punish those players who do not follow the rules. Nonetheless, this program was not in place in 2003, so why embarrass and tarnish the reputation of these ball players? Major League Baseball is currently down on the ground with regards to steroids, and releasing these names is only beating a dead horse.


Steroids was becoming very newsworthy, with the help of the release of Jose Canseco's best-selling novel "Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant 'Roids, Smash Hits and How Baseball Got Big" in 2005. With this book, and several investigations, names like Canseco, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, Rafael Palmeiro and Barry Bonds were linked to steroids.


It was this time that I distinctly remember saying to people: "Well at least we know A-Rod won't test positive, he's been hitting home runs ever since he's been in the league." This proved to be true as his name was released prior to the 2009 season. I also remember saying in the past: "Ortiz isn't on steroids, he's fat."


But if you look harder, Alex Rodriguez had arguably 3 of his better seasons while he was considered to be on steroids. The Minnesota Twins gave up on a struggling Ortiz, and he broke out in 2003 with the Red Sox and became a feared power hitter. I am not a scientist, like one of my roommates is, but this is what I think:


Steroids won't make you hit home runs. That takes preicse hand-eye coordination and bat speed. But what it can do is make those long fly balls go a little further and over the walls. And this is an issue.


Now, my point. Stop bringing up these names from the past. You have developed a strong anti-doping policy, and if anyone tests positive, then they deserve to have their suspension. But when the MLB did not think steroids was a problem, (when they actually were) you cannot hold that against those who wanted that extra boost. It was not illegal, so forget about it.


Predictions:

• Ken Griffey Jr. never tests positive and is considered the best (or cleanest) home run hitter of the last 20 years. That is until Albert Pujols takes over that title after passing Barry Bonds all-time HR record.
• Jim Thome is the next high profile slugger to have his name reported as a past steroid user.

Wednesday Sports Thoughts.

Hey there ladies and gents. Welcome to a new segment which will be updated with more frequency. My outlook on the current sports landscape.

• So Michael Vick has been reinstated to play in the NFL. I can guarantee one team who will not sign him. The Cleveland Browns. Can you imagine Vick playing in the dog pound? The jokes would be endless. So i guess that also rules out the Ravens, Bengals, and Steelers since their division rivals. Speaking of this criminal, does no one else remember what he was like before all this happened? He was on a deep slide that everyone seems to forget about. He throws tons of INT's, has no accuracy, and was basically a glorified running back. Whichever team signs him is taking a huge risk. And in Cleveland that would include the mascot. I as a Packers fan really hope he goes to Minnesota. That team will not be as good as hyped.
• I'll keep this brief as I'm was saving it for another blog. Brett Favre, thank god for staying retired. All respect would have been lost had you played in the terrible purple and yellow jersey. How could you even think about screwing the Pack like that. Stay retired and keep it at that.
• Roy Halladay, the best athlete to ever wear a Toronto uniform. That is not just talking baseball either. If you can name a player who played for a Toronto team that has been this good for this long, and considered as the best across the league I'd love to hear it. This all said I would be pretty sad to see him go. I went to the so called last home game against the Tampa Rays and he was lights out. If I'm Philadelphia I trade whatever prospects the Jays ask for. With Doc the Philies could be dominant to another title. Whether the Jays should do it is another story. If we can't resign him, we may as well make the move. Get some prospects, and blow the team up.
• Fire J.P. Riccardi.
• Mark Buerle is a beauty. He also owes Wise a beer.
• The Toronto Raptors have more euros then strip club

2009 NHL Awards - WTF?

I am a massive National Hockey League fan. That automatically means that no matter how the annual awards show is organized, I am going to enjoy it, at least to the extent that I can see who wins each award. So I'll mention the positives of the night before I completely rip into the "show" part of it.

A lot of the speeches were great. It was hard not to get at least a bit choked up listening to Boston Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas deliver his Vezina Trophy winning speech. Thomas did not play his first NHL game until his early 30's, so to be rewarded with this trophy, alongside greats Terry Sawchuk, Patrick Roy and Jacques Plante amongst others, was certainly a great moment.

Steve Sullivan winning the Bill Masterton Award was definitely a feel-good moment. Sullivan had been battling back injuries and surgeries for parts of two seasons, only to come back last season to get 32 points in 41 games for the Nashville Predators. It was also a pleasure to see the eye candy Sullivan came with. (Although at times she looked as though she was constipated?)

Along the same lines, congrats to Steve Mason and Evgeni Malkin. Not for their awards (Mason with the Calder Trophy, Malkin with the Art Ross Trophy) but for their dates. I give the edge to Malkin, good on ya Gino. Special consideration to Jean Beliveau.

Finally, Brian Burke appeared on camera a few times. Never get sick of seeing that face. Felt like he was planning something, something big.

Okay, that I enjoyed.

But why was it in Las Vegas? Are there really any sports fans in sin city? Or is there just a lot of sports betters? Who in Las Vegas cares about hockey? Judging by the numerous times there was a section of 6 or 7 empty seats in a row, not many. Quit trying to "build" the game in places it will not work Mr. Bettman. (See Phoenix Coyotes) Oh and nice try on the joke Gare. Walks up to the microphone and says "I definitely need this lower." Hilarious. Next year, keep it in Toronto, or at least Canada, where it belongs.

Now onto the entertainment. I heard on the radio that The Arkells played a pre-awards show. However they did not play during the actual awards. That spot was left for world renowned superstar....Chaka Khan. Not only did we get one dose of the lovely Ms. Khan, but she returned for a second performance! Simply brilliant. She opened the show singing god knows what with who appeared to be a former member of the now defunct boy band LFO. Then, she returned for an encore performing her best hit, "Through the Fire." Epic.

Here's the part that annoyed me the most. I do not know for sure, but I cannot imagine Ron MacLean turning down the offer to host again this year. Then again, who knows. The lack of a host, created a lack of a flow and really hurt the show. The best parts of previous award shows was Ron MacLean and his quick-witted rhetoric. Ron would have made a knee-slapper about the Sidney Crosby "handshake fiasco" to ease the tension and acknowledge the ridiculous situation its become. Or he would have cracked a Jim Balsille - Phoenix Coyotes joke. But none of this happened. It was award, award, award, commercial. BOR-ING.

We had to rely on guys like Alex Ovechkin for humour, and unintentional humour from the weak English of Evgeni Malkin and Pavel Datsyuk.

By the way, where was the NHL's posterboy? Celebrating the Stanley Cup? How dare you Sidney!

Next year, back in Canada, MacLean hosting and some good rock music please.

Wow, Russia is going to be good in 2010.

2009 Millar Mock Draft

One of the most exciting days on the National Hockey League schedule is fast approaching, and I thought I would give my best guess at how the first round is going to play out. Here we go:

1. New York Islanders: C John Tavares - London Knights (6.00, 195) 56GP 58G 46A 104P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 1st NA Skaters

This pick is not as easy as some suggest. However, with a possible new arena deal on the horizon, and a once proud franchise consistently amongst the league's worst, the Islanders decide to go with the firepower of Tavares. He has the best goal scoring ability in the draft, which will be huge for a team that finished second last in the league in goals for. Tavares - Okposo looks to be a scary dynamic duo for years to come on the Island.

2. Tampa Bay Lightning: D Victor Hedman - Modo (6.06, 220) 43GP 7G 14A 21P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 1st European Skaters

The Lightning would have been happy with either Tavares or Hedman, and even Tampa Bay could not screw this pick up. The Lightning are a team in serious need of some defensive depth, and Hedman should be able to play next season, and give the Lightning blue line a boost. The only knock is that Hedman does not use his freakish size to the best of his ability, but he's young, and I'm sure Rick Tocchet could fix that problem. 2-1 odds Ricky.

3. Colorado Avalanche: C Matt Duchene - Brampton Battalion (5.11, 200) 57GP 31G 48A 79P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 2nd NA Skaters

The 2009 Draft has a distinct top three. Many experts feel the order could go any way. With that being said, the Avalanche are thrilled to be able to have a player of Duchene's ability drop to them at the third spot. With Avalanche legend Joe Sakic nearing the end of his illustrious career, the timing is perfect for Duchene to take over the reigns of the franchise. He likely is the smartest player in the draft, and some even feel he may have the best career of the 2009 crop.

4. Atlanta Thrashers: C Evander Kane - Vancouver Giants (6.01, 176) 61GP 48G 48A 96P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 3rd NA Skaters

The Atlanta Thrashers struggle between choosing Kane and Brayden Schenn, but ultimately take the more offensive Kane. Landing a player like Kane can hopefully convince Thrasher superstar Ilya Kovalchuk to stay beyond next season. Kane has drawn comparisons to Jarome Iginla.

In a surprising move, the Toronto Maple Leafs trade the 7th overall pick, 2010 3rd Round Draft Pick and forward Alex Ponikarovsky to the Los Angeles Kings for the 5th overall pick and a 2010 4th Round Pick. The trade allows both teams to select the player they want, with a top 6 forward going to the Kings who are loading up for a playoff push next season.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs: C Brayden Schenn - Brandon Wheat Kings (6.00, 198) 70GP 32G 56A 78P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 4th NA Skaters

In what seems like a match made in heaven, the Leafs select a Schenn in back-t0-back drafts. Brayden Schenn is the opitimy of a "Brian Burke player." He has size, leadership skills, tenacity, pugnacity, truculence, beligerence, yada yada you get the point. Some say B.Schenn is built to the mould of Philadelphia's Mike Richards. Let's hope so, it's about time the Leafs had some high end prospects in their system. Now if Boyd Devereaux hadn't scored a hat trick in the final game of the season against Ottawa to drop the Leafs from 5th spot to 7th, they would not have had to trade up, and could have jumped even higher. Thanks Boyd, good luck on getting a new offer from the Buds.

6. Phoenix Coyotes: D Dmitry Kulikov - Drumondville Voltigeurs (6.00, 183) 57GP 12G 50A 62P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 11 NA Skaters

The Coyotes have gone off the board in the past, selecting Blake Wheeler at 5th in 2004, so this move seems appropriate as well. The Coyotes are looking to bolster their blue line, and they get a solid, offensively gifted defenceman in Kulikov. Don't be surprised either if the 'Yotes take Swedish defeceman Oliver Ekman-Larsson in this spot either.

7. Los Angeles Kings: LW Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi - Timra IK (6.01, 201) 50GP 7G 10A 17P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 2nd European Skaters

The Kings get their guy in Paajarvi-Svensson, or Svensson-Paajarvi... whatever his name is. With not much depth on the wings in Los Angeles, especially with prospects, the Kings add a highly-skilled Swede who some feel is one of the more NHL ready prospects in the draft. Don't let his stats fool you. Svensson-Paajarvi was 17 years old playing with grown men in the Swedish Elite League. His stats all-of-a-sudden become impressive. His stock fell a bit with his performance at the U-18's this past year, but the Kings will get a dynamic player in MPS.

8. Dallas Stars: D Oliver Ekman-Larsson - Leksand (6.02, 176) 39GP 3G 14A 17P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 4th European Skaters

Joe Nieuwendyk surprises a few people with his first ever pick as the Stars General Manager, by passing on the previously injured, higher rated defenceman in Jared Cowen. However, with Sergei Zubov nearing the end, the Stars find the perfect puck-moving defeceman replacement in Ekman-Larsson.

9. Ottawa Senators: C Nazem Kadri - London Knights (5.11, 167) 56GP 25G 53A 78P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 15th NA Skaters

The Senators are not turned off from Kadri dropping to 15th from 11th in the mid-term rankings. Kadri had a strong OHL playoffs and some feel he outperformed London teammate John Tavares. However, even though the Knights lost to a very strong, Memorial Cup winning Windsor Spitfire team, some feel the Knights choked in their OHL semi-final series, meaning Kadri should fit right into the Ottawa system.

10. Edmonton Oilers: D Jared Cowen - Spokane Chiefs (6.05, 220) 48GP 7G 14A 21P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 9th NA Skaters

Before this season, many felt Cowen could challenge for the 3rd spot after a solid performance as a rookie on a Memorial Cup Winning team in 2008. However, a collison on Januaury 30th ended his season prematurely, and he did not play for the rest of the season. However, he will be healthy for training camp. The Oilers are thrilled with drafting Cowen this late, as he is full of potential, and some feel he has a shot at becoming a Chris Pronger-like hulking d-man. Hopefully he doesn't meet any news reporters out in Oil Country.

11. Nashville Predators: RW Jordan Schroeder - U of Minnesota (5.08, 175) 35GP 13G 32A 45P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 5th NA Skaters

Size has been Schroeder's biggest disadvantage when concerned with scouting. However, the Predators are not concerned, as Schroeder's dynamic shot, and playmaking ability will fit nicely into the Predatorss high tempo system

12. Minnesota Wild: D John Moore - Chicago Steel (6.02, 189) 57GP 14G 25A 39 P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 6th NA Skaters

Moore is a player who we could see easily climb into the top ten, going as high as 6th. All he did this season was improve. He could potentially be the steal of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Solid defenceman with great instincts at both ends of the rink.

13. Buffalo Sabres: RW Scott Glennie - Brandon Wheat Kings (6.01, 177) 55GP 28G 42A 70P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 7th NA Skaters

Some critics feel Glennie benefitted from playing on a line with Brayden Schenn all season. However, Glennie brings a denomination of size and vision to his game. The Sabres likely lack size up front, and Glennie could be a mainstay on the top 6 for years to come.

14. Florida Panthers: C Jacob Josefson - Djurgarden (6.00, 187) 50GP 5G 10A 15P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 4th European Skaters
Again, don't be fooled by Josefson's stats. He was a boy playing against men on a top team in the Swedish Elite League. He is a very electric player, who is a born leader, and will be a solid addition to the Panther organization and the preparation for moving on without Jay Bouwmeester. Vancouver's first a little later on in the first round doesn't look so bad now, does it Jacques? Oh wait, you got the hell out of there.

15. Anaheim Ducks: RW Zack Kassian - Peterborough Petes (6.03, 210) 64GP 24G 39A 63P

Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 10th NA Skaters

In Bob Murray's first draft as General Manager, he continues to trend of Brian Burke and selects a big, hulking power forward to hopefully help the Ryan - Getzlaf - Perry line with some secondary scoring within the next few years. Kassian jumped from 24 in the mid-term rankings into the top 10 for North American skaters. Big guy, who can skate well and put the puck in the net. Good choice for the Ducks.

16. Columbus Blue Jackets: D Simon Depres - St. John's Sea Dogs (6.03, 205) 66GP 2G 30A 32P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 8th NA Skaters
I'm not so sure the Blue Jackets keep this pick, with tremdous prospect depth, and a need to ensure another playoff appearance, especially a win or two. However, if they do, Depres would fit nicely in their system. With more offensive-minded defencemen Cody Golubef and Kris Russell coming through the sytem, Depres could represent the tougher, shutdown type.

17. St Louis Blues: D Ryan Ellis - Windsor Spitfires (5.09, 173) 57GP 22G 67A 89P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 16NA Skaters
That is not an error, Ellis did get 89 points last year as a defenseman. What scouts are worried about is obviously his size, as some think he he is not big enough to be an NHL defenceman. However, St. Louis, who has arguably the best prospect pool in the NHL, are thrilled to add the potential of Ellis to their organization. Fresh off his Memorial Cup victory, Ellis is ready to prove his critics wrong with a lenghty NHL career.

18. Montreal Canadiens: C Louis LeBlanc - Omaha Lancers (6.0, 178) 60GP 28G 31A 59P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 18th NA Skaters
Some Habs fans were upset two drafts ago when they passed on fellow francophone Angelo Esposito, and upset last year when their 1st round pick was traded for Alex Tanguay. The Habs here, get a solid two-way centreman that has speed and can maybe help fill the Habs void up the middle. That, or this pick is involved in a deal for Tampa Bay superstar Vincent Lecavalier...either or.

19. New York Rangers: C/RW Kyle Palmieri - USA U-18 (5.10, 191) 33GP 15G 15A 30P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 20th NA Skaters
With some interesting names still on the board, the Rangers select a kid from close to home in New Jersey. Palmieri is a fast, hard-working, offensive-minded player who could give the Rangers a boost in the scoring department in a few years, and can play both centre and right wing.

20. Calgary Flames: C/RW Landon Ferraro - Red Deer Rebels (5.11, 165) 68 GP 37G 18A 55P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 18th NA Skaters
I feel like the Flames could take Ferraro, Chris Kreider or Carter Ashton with this pick. However, with new head coach Brent Sutter, who also owns the Rebels, the Flames take a familiar face in Ferraro. Slightly undersized, Ferraro still plays with lots of energy, and accumulated 99 PIM last season. Should fit nicely into the Flames system.

21. Philadelphia Flyers: C Chris Kreider - Phillips Andover (6.02, 201) 26GP 33G 23A 56P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 14th NA Skaters
The Flyers get a big, tough player that can score, which is the type of player Philly likes. Kreider is the best U.S High School player in the draft, and many feel he is more than capable of transferring his game to a more competitive level with no problems, as his size and offensive ability are two of his greatest tools.

22. Vancouver Canucks: D David Rundblad - Skelleftea (6.02, 189) 45GP 0G 10A 10P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 6th European Skaters
I may have Rundblad a bit low, but apparently he is one of the most diverse players as far as positioning on scouts and General Managers list. However, with the Canucks only drafting 3 defencemen in the past 3 years, Mike Gills takes who he feels is the best defenceman left on the table.

23. New Jersey Devils: D Calvin de Haan - Oshawa Generals (6.00, 170) 68GP 8G 55A 63P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 25th NA Skaters
There's something about de Haan's play that screams NJ Devil. Last year, the Devils surprisinly took de Haan's teammate Kory Nagy in the 5th round. This defenceman has a lot of offensive potential from the back-end.


24. Washington Capitals: LW Carter Ashton - Lethbridge Hurricanes (6.03, 205) 70GP 30G 20A 50P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 12th NA Skaters
The Captials have a ton of young forward talent in the system, but they lack a true power forward type. Ashton fits the mould, and has the time he needs to develop into a power forward in the NHL for the Capitals.


25. Boston Bruins: D Stefan Elliot - Saskatoon Blades (6.00, 180) 71GP 16G 39A 55P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 17th NA Skaters
The Bruins are content drafting this late in the draft after a spectactular regular season. With the Bruins being a little light on defensemen prospects, they take the best available rearguard.


26. New York Islanders: C Ryan O'Reilly - Erie Otters (6.00, 200) 68GP 16G 50A 66P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 39th NA Skaters
It looks like the positions from 16-40 could more or less go in any various order. O'Reilly is a player that could go in the late first or mid-second. The Islanders elect to take him at 26 to inject a great kid, with tremendous leadership skills into their system.


27. Carolina Hurricanes: C Peter Holland - Guelph Storm (6.02, 185) 68GP 28G 39A 67P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 19th NA Skaters
In a recent interview, Holland was asked why a team should take him. He responded by saying he had "the most potential out of anyone in the draft." Obviously it's possible, but Holland certainly did not display that in the OHL playoffs, and that is why he has slipped this low in the draft. He certainly has all the tools though, it's just a matter of putting them altogether at the highest level. Confidence is clearly not an issue with Peter.


28. Chicago Blackhawks: RW Jordan Caron - Rimouski Oceanic (6.02. 202) 56GP 36G 31A 67P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 21st NA Skaters
The Blackhawks rich prospect pool gets even richer adding a player like Caron into the mould. He is a big bodied forward who can score, which will fit ideally into the Blackhawks crop of young forwards, including last year's selection, Kyle Beach.


29. Detroit Red Wings: LW Carl Klingberg - Frolunda (6.03, 205) 35GP 13G 13A 26P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 7th European Skaters
The Red Wings are certainly familiar with this drafting slot, and as much as they have their most success in later rounds, in this deep draft they should project to get a solid prospect. Klingberg is a big Swede who can score and muck it up in the corners and in front of the net. Detroit's usually, right, so Klingberg projects to be a future Hall-of-Famer.


30 Pittsburgh Penguins: LW Jeremy Morin - USA U-18 (6.01, 173) 46GP 26G 22A 48P
Final Central Scouting Bureau Ranking: 33rd NA Skaters
One knock against the defending Cup champs is that they have no wingers to play with Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin. This is why they signed Miroslav Satan and Ruslan Fedotenko in the offseason, and acqurired Chris Kunitz and Bill Guerin prior to the Trade Deadline. Usually teams draft the best player available and fix the holes through trade and free agency, but the Penguins want to insert a solid winger prospect into the system for the future, and Morin fits the bill.


So there you have it, let's hope I get at least one right, but based on the depth of this draft, and who will go first even, I just might not.

Much Respect for the Columbus Blue Jackets

If you have not heard this story, I highly recommend reading this.

Today, Columbus Blue Jackets superfan Ryan Salmons passed away at the age of 19 after a long battle with cancer. Who was Ryan you ask?

Ryan was a young man who had been battling cancer for about a year now. He had met several Columbus Blue Jackets players throughout various Columbus Blue Jacket charity and community events. He had become especially close with Manny Malhotra and Jason Chimera. With Ryan's condition getting worse, but his spirits as high as ever, Columbus General Manager Scott Howson inked Ryan to a one-day contract in late March, with a signing bonus of $3.

For that day, Ryan was officially a Columbus Blue Jacket, a dream Ryan never thought possible. On that day, Ryan would sit up in the press box as a healthy scratch, with the other Blue Jacket scratches. If you're a hardcore hockey fan and noticed Blue Jacket defenceman Marc Methot wasn't wearing #3 that night, it was because that was Ryan's number, and Methot was more than willing to allow Ryan to have it. #3 Blue Jacket "Salmons" t-shirt jerseys have also been created. Here's the press release from Howson with the signing of Ryan:

"We're very pleased to add a player of Ryan's caliber to our hockey club as he brings tremendous versatility to our lineup and can play either wing position or defense," said Howson. "He also has great character and is the type of person who inspires others with his courage, tenacity and positive attitude. We're lucky to have him on our team."

Powerful stuff from the Blue Jackets organization, and obviously they used Ryan's courage and determination for a strong playoff push and the franchise's first ever playoff birth. Ryan was there to see the Columbus Blue Jackets play playoff hockey for the first time. He fought as long as he could, to see that until he unfortunately passed away today.

The entire Blue Jackets organization made the last few months of this young man's life an absolute dream, and it just goes to show the power pro sports can have on a person's life in difficult times.

Look no further than Mike Fisher and the Ottawa Senators involving 3-year old Elgin Fraser in the 2007 Stanley Cup run before he passed.

Or the Tampa Bay Lightning drafting David Carle in the 7th round, just days after he found out he could no longer play hockey because of a heart condition.

There is much more to hockey than winning games that isn't show in the highlights, and every team should be commended for using their power as a professional sports team to help bring smiles to people in tough times.

hmm. Well I guess if Vernon says it...it must be true!

Apparently Aaron Hill is a racist and Vernon wells is a metro interior decorator...did not see that coming.

p.s. I have no idea who's interviewing him.

Vaughn Coyotes?

Recently, the idea of Phoenix relocating to the GTA has got a lot of newspapers and bloggers speculating the when and how the coyotes plan to move. But what they haven't touched on yet is the how much?

The Toronto Maple Leafs have a territory claim on almost all of the GTA and Southern Ontario (whether or not the Buffalo Sabres have territory control over the Niagara peninsula is debatable). And if the Phoenix Coyotes eventually make the move into the GTA , hefty territory rights fees are going to need to be paid.

Keep in mind, Toronto's fan territory has been uncontested for almost 90 years now, and leafs nation is one of the strongest, biggest fan bases in all of the NHL. So what would it take for Phoenix (or Vaughn I suppose, for that seems to be the city that the rumor mill is circulating) to buy a portion of leafs nation?

Personally, I don't see this ending well. I can see Toronto asking for something along the lines of 3 or 4 first round draft picks and about 250 million dollars, as well as some other minor details just for the team to relocate into their territory. From then, the Coyotes organization will be broke, and reliant on a terrible at best team until the territory rights are paid off.

On the plus side, tickets to NHL games in that arena would be dirt cheap, but when you think about it, the last thing Ontario needs is another hopeless NHL franchise.

2009 NHL Mock Draft Lottery

With the National Hockey League regular season completed, the interest of the teams that did not qualify for the playoffs will be focused on the 2009 NHL Draft Lottery. All non-playoff teams are placed in a lottery, in which there will be one winner. The winner, will move up a maximum of five spots in their draft position, with the 13 losers moving down a maximum of one space. Therefore, the bottom 5 teams all have a chance to draft first overall. This year's prize, the London Knights pnenom, John Tavares. Here's a brief history of the NHL Draft Lottery and its winners during its existence since 1995:

Retaining 1st Overall Pick: Ottawa - 1995, Ottawa - 1996, Boston - 1997, Tampa Bay - 1999, St. Louis - 2006, Tampa Bay - 2008
Move from 2nd to 1st: Never
Move from 3rd to 1st: Tampa Bay - 1998, Atlanta - 2001, Florida - 2002, Washington - 2004
Move from 4th to 1st: Florida - 2003
Move from 5th to 1st: NY Islanders - 2000, Chicago - 2007
Move from 7th to 3rd: Los Angeles - 1995
Move from 8th to 4th: Chicago - 1999

So, with that being said, he are this year's hopefuls in the NHL Draft Lottery, and the percentages each team has of winning. (There are 1000 entries)

30. New York Islanders (25%)
29. Tampa Bay Lightning (18.8%)
28. Colorado Avalanche (14.2%)
27. Atlanta Thrashers (10.7%)
26. Los Angeles Kings (8.1%)
25. Phoenix Coyotes (6.2%)
24. Toronto Maple Leafs (4.7%)
23. Dallas Stars (3.6%)
22. Ottawa Senators (2.7%)
21. Edmonton Oilers (2.1%)
20. Nashville Predators (1.5%)
19. Minnesota Wild (1.1%)
18. Buffalo Sabres (0.8%)
17. Florida Panthers (0.5%)

And when it was all said and done, and 1000 little labeled pieces of papers entered into my own draw, the winner of the 2009 NHL Draft Lottery was :

THE EDMONTON OILERS

As you can see, the Islanders had the best chance to win, but there was a greater percentage they did not, and in this case, for the first time in lottery history, a 10th place team has won. The draft order would in turn, look like this:

1. New York Islanders
2. Tampa Bay Lightning
3. Colorado Avalanche
4. Atlanta Thrashers
5. Los Angeles Kings
6. Edmonton Oilers
7. Phoenix Coyotes
8. Toronto Maple Leafs
9. Dallas Stars
10. Ottawa Senators
11. Nashville Predators
12. Minnesota Wild
13. Buffalo Sabres
14. Florida Panthers

Now the fact that this happens again is extremely unlikely, but a demonstration like this can show you how your team's future can potentially become instantly brighter. Imagine the Oilers scooping western boy Brayden Schenn up with the 6th overall pick. I am sure Maple Leafs fans cringe at the shot. But that's the beauty of the NHL Draft Lottery, anything can happen. Nonetheless, winning the lottery doesn't neccesarily mean you win the top prize.

NHL Playoffs 09

The NHL regular season is officially over. The best and worst of the season will be recapped later this week with all MMB writers sharing their views.

Here are the playoff matches:

Eastern Conference

#1 Boston Bruins vs. #8 Montreal Canadiens
- Boston won the season series 5-1
Well Bob Gainey, it's now your time to shine. You fired Guy Charboneau and ended up in 8th. Expect the Lucic and Komisarek feud to blow up at some point. Carey Price and Alexei Kovalev will be under constant pressure to play at the top of theirs games.
Prediction - Boston is too good to lose to an inconsistant Montreal team. Bruins in 5

#2 Washington Capitals vs. #7 New York Rangers
-Washington won the season series 3-1
The Alexander Ovechkin show has landed on Broadway. Luckily for Caps fans it isn't a one man show anymore. It should be a breakout playoffs for Mike Green, Nicklas Backstrom, and Alexander Semin. Meanwhile, the Rangers have been a better team under John Tortorella going 12-7-2 since his arrival. Sean Avery and Nik Antropov have given the Rangers much needed offensive depth. This matchup should make for one of the better of the first round
Prediction - Hard fought, high scoring series, Washington in 7

#3 New Jersey Devils vs. #6 Carolina Hurricanes
- Carolina won the season series 3-1
The Devils did what I suggested they would when Marty "Fatso" Brodeur came back. They shut down what was working for them, scoring goals. Carolina has played well and like the Rangers have benefitted from a coaching change. Paul Maurice has got the Hurricanes lighting the lamp and playing great hockey. Watch for Cam Ward to show signs of fatigue as he has sholdered the brunt of ice time playing in 28 straight games down the stretch
Prediction - Bore, yawn, who cares, Hurricanes in 6

#4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Philadelphia Flyers
- Pittsburgh won the season series 4-2
The battle of Pennsylvania gets another chapter. Last year produced a great series with Mike Richards and Sidney Crosby going at it. I hope to see the same thing out of the captains. Evgeni Malkin led the league in points, which at the start of the year didn't seem possible. The Penguins seem to be peeking at the right time of the year while the Flyers gave away home ice by not getting a point to finish out the season.
Prediction - This could be Crosby and Malkins first of many cups, Penguins in 6

Western Conference

#1 San Jose Sharks vs. #8 Anaheim Ducks
- Sharks won the season series 4-2
This should be a defensive battle with an unusually tough number eight seed. San Jose has been know for choking in the playoffs, but things have looked different this year. The players seem motivated, they have one of the best goaltenders in the league, and a Presidents Trophy.
Prediction - Anaheim will sneak a few but San Jose moves on, Sharks in 6

#2 Detroit Red Wings vs. #7 Columbus Blue Jackets
- Teams split the season series 3-3
The Blue Jackets make the post season for the first time in their history. I doubt Detroit will get the sentimental memo. They played each other very tough all year, but Hossa, Zetterberg, and Datsyuk are too much. Steve Mason will have his hands full and may steal a game or two but it will take more then that.
Prediction - Mason wins at least one on his own but so does Lidstroms presence, Red Wings in 5

#3 Vancouver Canucks vs. #6 St.Louis Blues
- Teams split the season series 2-2
The Canucks were handed the division crown personally by the Flames, and get the surging St.Louis Blues. This is series could get interesting. The Blues have nothing to lose while the Canucks have tons of expectations. Roberto Luongo is a game changing goalie, but Chris Mason has led this team to the playoffs. Brad Boyes led the Blues this year with 71 points, and I expect a big playoffs from the ex leaf.
Prediction - Mats Sundin isn't what the Canucks expected, either will the end result of this series, Blues in 7

#4 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #5 Calgary Flames
- Chicago won the season series 4-0
The Flames are getting healthy at all the right time. Dion Phaneuf, Cory Sarich and Curtis Glencross and Rene Bourque are all expected back for the first round. For a team that hasn't put out a full lineup in a while this is a good thing. Chicago meanwhile is back in the playoffs for the first time in seven years. Havlat is a UFA this offseason and has a great year. Should be a physical fast paced series.
Prediction - I bought the Kane jersey for a reason, well mainly because a kid was selling them on the side of the street for cheap, and its a great number, Blackhawks in 6.

There you go folks. Sorry for ruining the first round with the results already. Ill be back for the second round. Enjoy the playoffs!

Fight of the Year

Theres nothing like a great AHL fight where two plugs beat the shit out of each other. Jon Mirasty of the Syracuse Crunch and Jeremy Yablonski of the Binghamton Senators finish the period with a great tilt. This happened on December 19, 2008 and gets my nod for Fight of the Year.

De-Nied

Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Brett Hull, Marcel Dionne, Phil Esposito, Mike Gartner, Mark Messier, Steve Yzerman, Mario Lemieux, Luc Robitaille, Brendan Shanahan, Jaromir Jagr, Dave Andreychuk, Joe Sakic and Bobby Hull.

Quite the impressive list of Hockey Hall-of-Famers, and future Hall-of-Famers. These players, are the only players, who have more National Hockey League goals than Dino Ciccarelli. However, Dino has been retired for ten seasons with the Minnesota North Stars, Washington Capitals, Detroit Red Wings, Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers, and has yet received his call to hockey's shrine.

Don't get me wrong. I am fully aware the game of hockey is about a lot more than goals. But when a player like Ciccarelli, who scored over 600 goals (608) is certainly deserving to be a Hall-of-Famer one day.

Ciccarelli first became eligible for the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002. Certainly, I would not expect Dino to be voted in during a year like 2007 when Ron Francis, Al MacInnis, Mark Messier and Scott Stevens are honoured. Or 2004 when Ray Bourque, Paul Coffey and Larry Murphy are inducted.

In Ciccarelli's first year of eligibility, Clark Gillies was one of the honoured memebers. Gilles was an intrical part of four Stanley Cup titles for the New York Islanders in the 1980's, but only ended up with 89 more points than Dino did goals. It's tough to be considered a first-ballot hall-of-famer, and I think in this case, Ciccarelli is not.

However in 2005, 2006 and 2008, I felt Dino was worthy of a call. In order to get inducted, one must receive 75% of the votes of the 18 member voting committe. In each of these years, Ciccarelli failed to get enough votes. 2005 saw Russian legend Valeri Kharlamov inducted. It is the HOCKEY Hall of Fame, and this vote was certainlty earned. Cam Neely was also inducted, and while his career was cut short, he did have a tremendous career. Ciccarelli might compete with Neely for a spot in the Hall. Again, 608 goals is nothing to snuff about. 2008 saw Glenn Anderson and Igor Larionov inducted, and while Anderson's 6 Stanley Cups trumps Ciccarelli's zero, Anderson failed to crack 500 goals, let alone 600. Again, I am still stressing that goals are not everything in hockey, clearly. If Ciccarelli was on the Edmonton Oilers of the 80's though, I am sure he'd have a cup too.

It was 2006, when alongside sure-thing nominee Patrick Roy, that Dick Duff was inducted. This was the year, I feel Ciccarelli was truly shafted. Nothing against Dick Duff, he was a great player who had a great career, but he had been passed up 31 times for induction. His highest point total as a forward was 53 points. Ciccarelli surpassed 53 points 12 times, including two 100-point seasons and two 50-goal seasons. Surely, the 16th highest goal scorer of all-time was strongly considered for the nomination that season.

Why did he not get it? Well, Ciccarelli has had a reputation as not being a great person to deal with the media. He is also the only NHL player to serve jail time for an on ice incident, as he spent one day in prison in 1988 for attacking Luke Richardson with his stick. He was even sentenced to probation in 1987 after pleading guilty to indecent exposure. The guy took out his garbage in a robe or something, and it flew open revealing Dino's peen-o. Accidents happen, it's not the Putting Your Garbage Out Clothed Hall of Fame. It's the Hockey Hall-of-Fame. The reality is, Ciccarelli was one of the best players at getting the gritty, garbage (had to) goals. So he didn't win a cup. So he was not Saint Peter off the ice. The man had a nose for the net and found it 608 times. I hope that one day (and don't make him wait 10 more years) that 3/4 of the voting members of the Hockey Hall-of-Fame put whatever differences aside, whatever preconceived notions about Ciccarelli they possess, and put Dino where he belongs - alongside some of the best goal-scorers in National Hockey League History.

2010 Winter Classic

April 9, 2009 - It was announced today that the Boston Bruins will host the 2010 Winter Classic on New Year's Day in Fenway Park.  The Bruins bid apparently beat out both the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers for the rights to host the annual outdoor hockey game on New Years Day. Boston had listed two possible sites for the event, with both the Boston Red Sox Fenway Park and the New England Patriots Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA (about 35 km southwest of Boston) as possibilities, but with the Winter Classic being scheduled around the same time as the NFL playoffs, Fenway Park seemed to the the more logical choice. 

The Winter Classic has seemed etch its place in the NHL's schedule on New Year's Day, and appears to be here for the foreseeable future as the event has gathered an enormous amount of success in the past. Fans continue to rave about the event and it continues to produce results as television ratings in the United States have been higher and revenues for the league seem to be up as well. After the experiment began back in 2003 with the Edmonton Oilers hosting the Montreal Canadiens in frigid temperatures at Commonwealth Stadium, it has become a regular on the NHL schedule on New Year's Day over the past few seasons after the Buffalo Sabres played the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2008 Winter Classic at the NFL's Buffalo Bills Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, NY and this past January with the Chicago Blackhawks entertaining the Detroit Red Wings at the MLB's Chicago Cubs Wrigley Field. 

Possible opponents for the 2010 Winter Classic have been listed as the Philadelphia Flyers, and the Washington Capitals.

Opening Night 2009

Let's just keep this one short and sweet.

Alan Hyland has some incredible pictures on his Flickr from opening night last night.

You can check out the whole set Here

Let's all be honest though, This was the best shot of the night.

Poor kid to the left doesn't even realize.

North Carolina Bracket Champs!

Congratulations goes out to the North Carolina Tar Heels who won the NCAA National Championship tonight by destroying the Michigan State Spartans 89-72. It was a blowout from the start. So much for the Spartan defense that completely blanketed Louisville and UConn. Tyler "Bugeyed" Hansbrough played pretty well up to his standard this tournament with 18 points and 7 rebounds. This teams closest game this tournament was 12 points which is ridiculous. Ty Lawson also set a championship game record with 8 steals tonight.

Overall the tournament wasn't that bad. There was no real Cinderella team this year. Best game of the tournament will have to go to Pittsburgh vs. Villanova. The intensity level of the entire game was insane. I'd love to know what Nova was thinking with the score that close going for the hail mary. My bracket fell apart quickly with Duke going out. UConn ended up being my only team right in the final four. I haven't heard of any perfect final four picks. If so post your name and well, have your name posted.

What is going on in Edmonton? There seems to be a lot of talk about Tambellini firing Craig ‘no bucket’ MacTavish, whether this is just the media or an actual problem going on will be seen by this summer.

Why should Mac T stay?

- He won 4 Stanley Cups in his playing career, 3 with the dynasty in Edmonton and then served as the Captain in Edmonton from 92-94

- He was the last player to not wear a bucket.. a joke that most guys already know about

- The Cinderella story that the Oilers had in 2005-2006, where they couldn’t finish the story by losing to Carolina in game 7

Why Mac T is done.

- Edmonton has not made the playoffs since their run to the finals, the senators have been bad since their run and it feels like they have went through 10 coaches.

- The stick incident: recently called Teemu Selanne out in the last minute to try and get a penalty for an illegal stick, this backfired as his stick was legal and Edmonton had to play a man down and could not finish their comeback

- He has seemed to rub Ales Hemsky the wrong way and has supposedly not let him be as creative as he wants to be. Watching Ales play when he has the passion he should not be a 70 point annual guy, he should be pushing the 90 point mark and not have to worry about what his coach wants him to do defensively.

- Dustin Penner makes 4 million dollars and had 47 points last year..who is this Sean Avery? This is not Mac T’s fault, but it is time to get this big lug going, this year he will be around the 40 point mark again

- They have dropped 4 of the last 5 games and they are in a run for the playoffs…that could be the last straw if it wasn’t for:

- Manslaughter? Yeah that is correct Mac T did time for Manslaughter in 84-85. He was drunk at the wheel and killed 26 year old Kim Radley and then spent a year in jail. When he was released he was rewarded by getting a contract with the Edmonton Oilers dynasty.

I feel it is time for Craig MacTavish to move on. He is a smart man as well as a coach, but has not been able to get the Oil to play with the passion and desire that they need to play with to compete. He has a lot of talent in Edmonton do work with and it just isn’t working with his defensive style.

RIP Mactavish, you were always a Beaut

Your 2009 Toronto Blue Jays Roster

Awesome Logo - Mediocre Team.

Here is my prediction for the opening lineup with explanations ( if nessecary)

P - 32- Roy Halladay: No explanation needed.

1B - 35 -Lyle Overbay: I would like to see Lind as a first baseman, but it seems as if he's being groomed for that coveted left field spot. So until Overbay snaps his shoulder or elbow this year, He will stay in the 1B slot.

2B - 2 -Aaron Hill: fan's were deprived of a great player early in the season last year when Eckstien felt a little threatened and took him out for the season with a head injury, Aaron Hill's triumphiant return to the diamond this season will be welcome and Toronto owes it's fans a comeptent second basemen to start the season.

SS - 6 -John Macdonald: Amazing defensive player, not so great on offense but is Improving. Also, he's better then Marco Scutaro.

3B- 33 -Scott Rolen: Rolen was sidelined with a sore shoulder for a period of the season last year and hadn't recovered come season's end. I'm hoping he's in prime shape this year because I really hate Jose Bautista.

C - 20 -Rod Barajas: The Blue Jays don't have another catcher. Congratulations Rod, you had Absolutely no competition and you perservered. Way to be better then a brick wall.

LF- 26-Adam Lind: Once again, I would love to see this guy playing first base. But...you know, we already have a big, slow, dumb-looking lefty there.

CF -10- Vernon Wells: According to the Jay's page he's active, so why not put him in?

RF -15- Alex rios: Once again, a no brainer. I can't wait to get all nostalgic when I see Rios squint in the air, then scramble to get under the ball and barely catch it.

DH -45-Travis Snyder : Who else is going to fill this position? Bautista? Scutaro? ha.

Batting Lineup

1. Overbay

2.Hill

3.Rios

4.Wells

5.Snyder

6.Lind

7.Barajas

8.Rolen

9. Macdonald

Agree? Disagree? don't really care but comment anyway.

Hardware Time

With the NHL regular season almost over, i think it is about time we take a look at the end of the year awards, and some of the possible candidates. A lot of the usual suspects are in contention for awards again this year, but here is an award by award break down of nominees and my pick for potential winner

Hart Trophy: most valuable player to his team

Well, this year is basically the same as last year, and the same people are vying for arguably the most prestigious award in the NHL. Of course Alexander Ovechkin is leading the way once again with 53 goals (1st in the NHL) and topping 100 points for the second straight year. He's got 22% of his teams goals this year, and without him they would not be sitting anywhere near 2nd in the east. Also in contention are the devils Zach Parise, who has had a breakthrough year, already scoring a career high 42 goals and 89 points, top 5 in league scoring, and carrying the devils while marty brodeur was hurt. He has also helped make his team mates better, turning travis zajac from a -11, 35 point player into a 60+ point guy with a plus 35, and helping give jamie langenbrunner a turn around year going from being a minus player in '08 with just 41 points for also a 60+ point season and plus 26. Parise has turned that line into one of the most deadly but underrated lines in the league and lead the devils to 3rd in the east and challenging for 2nd. The other few guys in the league battling for this award are of course the penguins sidney crosby (3rd in the league scoring) who is currently riding a 15 game point streak, and of course evgeni malkin who leads the entire league in points.

Nominees: Ovechkin, Malkin, Parise
Winner: Ovechkin

Norris Trophy: Leagues Top Defenseman

This one is not as clear cut as usual, seeing as how Nik Lidstrom is not a lock to win this year. There are a few guys having great seasons and a few guys who need to be mentioned. The first player is Mike Green, he has had a dynamite year and along with Ovechkin have helped the Caps to 2nd in the eastern conference. He leads all defenseman in points and logs almost 26 minutes a game. He also set an NHL record this year for defensemen by scoring in 8 consecutive games, not bad at all. Following in behind Green is of course Lidstrom who is having another good year, leading the Detroit Red Wings to the top of the western conference. He sits in the top 5 in defensive scoring and is an impressive +28. After these two guys, things get a bit blurry and there are a number of people who could be in contention. Mark streit has had a great year for the Islanders, and is +9 on an awful team and hes got 55 points, good for 4th amongst defensemen. The fact his team is so bad hurts his chances though. Dan boyle has had a great comeback year and is top 5 in D scoring and has been the best defenseman on the Sharks this year and turned a -29 year in 2008 into a +8 season in 2009. Shea Weber has also had his best season as a pro for the Predators and has shown a great scoring touch to go along with punishing hits and a good defensive game. He is 3rd in shots by defensemen and top 10 in hits. A good year considering his team likely wont make the playoffs.

Nominees: Green, Lidstrom, Boyle
Winner: Mike Green

Lady Byng: Sportsmanship and Gentlemanly conduct

I for one am not a huge fan of this award. I like guys to have a bit of sandpaper in their game but I cant complain, the guys who win this trophy are still pretty dam talented. Pavel Datsyuk looks to be primed and ready to win this trophy for the 4th straight year. He is 4th in the league with points and has only racked up 20 PIMS. Hard to argue with that, i mean pretty soon they are just going to call it the Pavel Datsyk Award. I guess it makes sense that the guy with hands of silk wouldn't be piling up the PIMS. Datsyuk does have a bit of competition this year though. Zach Parise is right behind him in points and only has 4 more PIMS. Parise has a real shot at taking home this award. If everything goes as planned at the awards ceremony this year, he might need to make some room in the trophy case. The other typical guys are also eyeing this trophy had Martin St. Louis who is seemingly always in contention has 77 points and remarkably only 12 PIMS all season. He will look to capture his first Lady Byng trophy in probably about 100 nominations. Patrick Marleau is a dark horse in this race but may have an outside chance with 70 points and a strong year, while only totaling 18 PIMS.

Nominees: Datsyuk, St. Louis, Parise
Winner: Datsyuk (again)

Vezina: Leagues Top goalie

This one is a bit of a tough call. A couple of the time goalies have missed a lot of time in Brodeur and Luongo. Their chances are pretty much shot because they just havent played enough games to warrant serious contention. Miika Kiprusoff leads the league in wins with 43, but he also plays every single fucking game so that stat is a bit skewed. Tim Thomas leads the league in both GAA (2.13) and save % (0.931). Very impressive, especially considering the Bruins are doing so well. This give Thomas a great shot at the trophy. But he has also only started in 50 games so far this year. A bit of a light workload compared to most goalies who win this award. Rookie Steve Mason has almost single handedly gotten Columbus into the playoffs this year and is top 10 in save % and 3rd in GAA. Pretty outstanding for a rookie goalie on a team that has never made the playoffs, and before he showed up didnt look like they had a shot this year either. Oh yea, he also leads the league in shutouts with 10! and thats in just 56 starts. Marty Brodeur has great numbers again but will likely finish the year with around 30 starts, which isnt enough to make him a legitimate candidate.

Nominees: Mason, Thomas, Kiprusoff
Winner: Mason

Calder Memorial: Top Rookie

A few guys are making an impressive late push for this award, and there a bunch of guys who could win, with no clear cut guy taking the honours. Steve Mason leads the goaltending race with his impressive numbers. Pekka Rinne has had a great rookie season in Nashville but gets no love because he's in..well... Nashville. Hes got a .922 save % and 2.25 GAA which are just a shade under Mason's numbers. He's also got 7 shutouts which are 2nd in the NHL behind...again, Mason. He's also one of the reasons Nashville is even in a playoff race this late in the year. Bobby Ryan has surged down the stretch and desite not even being the the Ducks for the whole seaon and spending part of the season in the A, he still has 51 points in 59 games to lead all rookie skaters. He also leads all rookies in goals with 26. Not bad for a guy who wasn't good enough to play the start of the season in the NHL. Kris Versteeg has had a steady year in Chicago putting up an impressive 50 points, but in 13 more games than Ryan has played. Stamkos has been very good as of late for Tampa, reaching the 20 goal mark and jumping to 5th in rookie scoring after getting only 8 mins of ice time most nights to start the year. The coaching change has helped his game immensely. Patrick Berglund despite a good year will likely get overlooked in St. Louis even though hes 3rd in rookie scoring. Especially since TJ Oshie has been the rookie making noise in St. Louis lately with big time goals and big time hits (keep your head up next time Rick Nash). James Neal in Dallas has 24 goals, good for 2nd amongst rookies. He's a -13 though and doesnt quite have the points or notoriety to be a legitimate contender. Doughty in LA leads all rookies in ice time and has 25 points for an awful team as a rookie. Pretty impressive stuff, so dont be surprised if he gets a nomination. He's been an outstanding puckmover, and his -17 rating is more due to the team he's on and doesnt necessarily reflect how well doughty has played.

Nominees: Mason, Ryan, Doughty
Winner: Mason

Art Ross: Most points

No nominees for this one. Just the most points at the end of the year. Malkin has gone basically wire to wire and has lit up every team hes played. He'll finish with close to 120 points. Crosby has been on a complete tear lately and is challenging but might run out of games before he can catch his team mate. Ovechkin is currently 2nd, and just lakes the assists to challenge Malkin. If Ovy can get hot though, dont count him out.

Contenders: Malkin, Crosby, Ovechkin
Winner: Malkin

Rocket Richard: Most goals

Alexander Ovechkin...'nuff said

Bill Masterton: Dedication and Perseverance

This one is tough to call, as each divisions nominees are just coming out right now. For this award each team nominates one player before hand and then a winner is decided at the awards ceremony at the end of the year. So far two candidates has showed up and would definitely be in my top 3. Patrice Bergeron from Boston has been nominated and looks like a good bet. He's battled back from very serious concussion problems that forced him to miss basically all of last year. He also ran into concussion problems again this year, but has battled through and is playing a valuable role for the Bruins in their playoff push. He only has 36 points, but the fact this guy is even able to play anymore is astounding. The other nominee that caught my attention is teppo numminen. He underwent open heart surgery before last season and was only able to play in the final game of the season last year. He is now back in the sabres lineup and averaging 17 minutes a game, very impressive. The only other player that comes to mind is Richard Zednik. He suffered a horendous cut to the neck after being hit with a skate blade, and was within minutes of dying before being saved by emergency surgery. He is once again playing with the Florida Panthers this year. Hes got 32 points, hes a plus player, and averages 15 minutes of ice for a surprise Panthers squad. Very impressive for a player who almost lost his life, just last season.

Nominees: bergeron, numminen, zednik
winner: zednik

Lester B. Pearson: Most valuable as voted by the players association

You may as well just check out the Hart Trophy section, because it is basically all the same guys leading the charge.

nominees: parise, malkin, ovechkin
winner: ovechkin

Jack Adams: Best Coach

Well for this one, there a few regulars, and a few newcomers. Of course Mike Babcock will be considered, as he has seemingly got the Red Wings through that post Stanley Cup hangover, and gotten them to 2nd in the west. Ken Hitchcock who has coached the Blue Jackets into the playoffs for the first time deserves a knod for bringing an average team into the playoffs for the first time in the teams history. Hitch has been nominated before but has never won. There are also a couple newcomers who may take the title this year. Todd McLellan has done a wonderful job in San Jose leading them to the best record in the league and making San Jose look like the team to beat this year, even with all the injuries they have suffered this season. Another first year coach in Peter DeBoer is looking like he will bring the florida panthers into the playoffs for the first time since 2000. Pretty good for a coach in his first year after coming from the OHL. Also if the St. Louis Blues can get into the playoffs, Andy Murray will likely get a small look since the Blues were definitely not in anyones playoff picture at the start of the year.

Nominees: Hitchcock, Babcock, McLellan
Winner: Hitchcock

Frank J Selke: best defensive forward

I know who i think should win this award, but there are a few guys who have had great defensive years. The most obvious selection is Mike Richards. He is Mr. Everything, he is great 5 on 5, with a plus 23, and a ton of points. He's great on the draw, and he kills every penalty, and has added 7 shorty's to lead the NHL in that category. Pavel Datsyuk, is also a very good defensive forward and will be looking to repeat after winning last year. He is in good shape sitting at +34 good for 3rd in the league. The fact he has the puck all the time has something to do with it, but hey, the best defense is a good offense, so Datsyuk will be in contention. Zajac and Langenbrunner may get a look from the Devils seeing as how they both have a good plus minus, and Langenbrunner has added 3 short handed goals. Also Blake Wheeler and Dave Krejci from the Bruins have had dynamite years and are in the top 5 in +/- (4th and 1st respectively), and they have each added two short handed goals. With Rod Brind'Amour having an awful season, someone new will dominate this award for awhile.

Nominees: Datsyuk, Richards, Langenrunner
Winner: Richards

William J Jennings: goalie(s) of the team with the least goals allowed

Looks like it will go to Manny Fernandez and Tim Thomas of Boston unless they let in a million goals a game the rest of the year.

King Clancy: Leadership on/off the ice

I have no idea, it usually goes to the guy who does a lot of charity work or some shit like that. I have no idea about this off ice stuff so lets just say this:

Winner: Patrick Marleau (he's been in SJ for awhile be must do something for that place)

April Fools!

Considering it is April 1st, we here at Muck My Blog have put together a countdown looking at the top 10 Sports Jokes and Gimmicks of All-Time. Enjoy

10. Mark Cuban Goes Nuts

Number 10 on our countdown actually happened on April Fools Days on 2003. Enigmatic Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban got into a physical fight with a phony game official during a game against the New Orleans Hornets. With Cuban's past of throwing verbal jabs at the referees and receiving fines, he made this outburst easily believable. However, when the dust settled, Cuban and the ref broke into laughs with several people more in shock than with smiles. Nonetheless, a solid joke. Mark Cuban has been fined over a million dollars by the National Basketball Association. That, is no joke.

9. Chad Johnson Legally Changes his Name

Speaking of fines, the Cincinnati Bengals receiver formerly known as Chad Johnson was fined $5,000 for wearing a jersey with the last name "Ocho Cinco" on the back, as opposed to C. Johnson. Of course, Ocho Cinco is Johnson, or Ocho's Cinco's number in spanish. Well, if the National Football League would not allow him to wear Ocho Cinco on the back of his jersey, why not just legally change your last name? That's exactly what Ocho Cinco did in August of 2008. However, forgetting he had a financial obligation with Reebok, Ocho Cinco must remain to wear C.Johnson on the back of his jersey. Can always count on Johnson, or Ocho Cinco, or whatever, for a good laugh.

8. Peter Worrell Throws Teammate Under the Bus

Having already spent 10 days in prison for a DUI in 2002, former Florida Panthers forward Peter Worrell had to think fast when caught drunk behind the wheel 2.5 years later. Worrell identified himself as Andreas Lilja, who was also a member of the Panthers at the same time. Unfortunately for Peter, Lilja, of Swedish descent, white, and standing at 6'3, did not quite resemble the 6'7, black, French Canadian Worrell. Good try though Peter, hopefully you don't pass these types of morals to the players on the Florida Junior Panthers, the team you help coach.

7. Brett Favre to the American Hockey League?

In July of 2008, the Iowa Stars of the AHL switched from being the Dallas Stars affiliate to becoming the Anaheim Ducks affiliate. The Iowa Stars became the Iowa Chops. I haven't had much experience with "Iowa Chops," but there is something disturbing about that name. Nonetheless, one of the first orders of business of the Chops was to offer NFL free agent quarterback Brett Favre a contract with the team. Chops President Steve Nitzel said "what's not to like about that?" Maybe the fact that Brett Favre is not a hockey player? Nice try Iowa, how is corn?


6. Disco Demolition Night

In July of 1979, the Chicago White Sox management team came up with an idea to blow up several thousand disco records in the middle of the field between games of a double-header between the White Sox and Detroit Tigers. Comiskey Park was expecting an extra 5,000 fans in the stands for the game as a decent promotion. When 75,000 people showed up, absolute mayhem occured. Thousands of people rushed the field, and with bombs going over and small fires, the diamond was in no condition for the second game. It was likely the easiest victory in Detroit Tigers history as they won by forefeit. Interesting fact: Green Mile actor Michael Clarke Duncan was one of the first 100 on the field. "That's John Coffey ma'am...like the drink, except spelt dif'rently"

5. "I Have Never Used Steroids. Period."

Those were the words of former Baltimore Orioles hitter and former future Hall of Famer, Rafael Palmeiro when he was testifying against his usuage of steroids in his career. Less than six months later Palmeiro was handed the mandatory ten game suspension by Major League Baseball after testing positive for banned substance stanozolol. I don't know who Raffy was trying to fool, and even though fellow slugger Mark McGwire looked like an absolute knob refusing to speak to Congress, at least he doesn't have to watch himself pointing into the faces of Congress denying something he clearly did.



4. Punch Imlach drafts a fake player

It was no secret that Buffalo Sabres General Manager Punch Imlach was a little frustrated by the time the 11th round of the 1974 NHL Entry Draft came around. Without hesistation, Imlach drafted Taro Tsujimoto of the Japanese Hockey League's Tokyo Katanas. The problem with this selection was that Taro Tsujimoto did not exist. Sure, Imlach may have benefitted from taking, say Dave Lumley, who went several picks later to the Montreal Canadiens and amassed 98 goals in his decent career, but the old Buffalo Auditorium would never have had the "We Want Taro" chants that united the Sabres faithful during tough times.


3. Now Batting For the Yankees....

Billy Crystal, number 60. It's official, the New York Yankees can buy anyone. They did just that by signing the former City Slicker and Yankee Superfan to a one-day contract to play in a preseason game against the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2008. To no one's surprise, Crystal went down swinging, but managed to foul off a pitch in his first and last at-bat. I guess it was to honour Crystal for his lifelong devotion to the Bronx Bombers, including his film 61*. Being a Toronto Maple Leaf fan myself, I hope Mike Myers is never found within 250 feet of the Leafs locker room after his award winning film (Razzie for worst picture, worst actor) "The Love Guru."

2. Manute Bol...on Ice

Manute Bol holds the distinction of being not only the tallest NBA player in history, but also the only player in NBA history to block more shots than he has made baskets. I guess that's the advantage of being 7'7 Sudanese basketball player. What 7'7 Sudanese basketball players don't do, is play hockey. However, Bol laced them up for the Indianapolis Ice of the Central Hockey League in 2002. Bol sat on the bench for most of the first period, then left to sign autographs for fans. Not sure how relevant this moment is in sports history, but seeing that guy in hockey equipment was definitely a site to see, and hey, why not try to increase the popularity in Indiana, there's nothing else exciting there.



1. Rosie Ruiz Fools Everyone

Rosie Ruiz was the female winner of the 1980 Boston Marathon. However, she was later stripped of her title when race officials discovered she actually didn't run the race. She registered for the race. Okay good, step one, no problem. She then skipped out on the race, rested up, and hopped on the track for the home stretch. How could they let her qualify? Well, during the New York Marathon, she hopped on a subway, faked an injury near the end, and was deemed qualified for the Boston Marathon. Officials were skeptical when ruiz finished the race 25 minutes ahead of her New York Marathon time, and was not even fatigued from the 26.2 mile race. Ruiz claims she just had a lot of energy that day. Ruiz's fifteen minutes of fame were soon over and her medal was handed over. Gotta give her credit though, she pulled a fast one on EVERYONE, and that is the true meaning of April Fool's Day.