Thanks for doing this Paul. 
I would like to know if people in Europe will be able to watch NHL games online?

Posted by Petr from Germany on 07/25/07 at 11:08 AM ET

Petr, the official word from the NHL is, “We are currently working on our distribution plans for Europe.”
I will post more information as it becomes available.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 11:13 AM ET

Does the re-signing of Simon mean that the Islander organization, Wang and Snow in particular, condone two-handed chops to the head?

Posted by NYRich82 from NYC on 07/25/07 at 11:20 AM ET

NYRich82, Nope, but I have a feeling in your mind it does.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 11:22 AM ET

NYRich82,
I think that question was answered immediately after the incident, when the entire organization played “blame the victim.”

Posted by K24 from NYC on 07/25/07 at 11:24 AM ET

Will the Flyers regroup this year and turn this proud franchise around.

Posted by Broadst27 from Philadelphia on 07/25/07 at 11:29 AM ET

Broadst27, The Flyers certainly looked much improved on paper.
The question is how long will it take a team with a lot of new faces to play as a team.
If they get off to a fast start, watch out… if not, as a Flyer fan, you must understand it could take some time.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 11:33 AM ET

Any word on Comcast broadcasting some of the Center Ice games in HD?
Time for them to get with it!

Posted by Tommy from Near Philly on 07/25/07 at 11:48 AM ET

Tommy, I agree 100%.  I remember last year about this time, a Comcast VP wasn’t even aware that Center Ice games would be available in HD.
Hopefully that thinking has changed (I hope he received my email).
I haven’t heard anything yet but will try to hunt it down for you and others who are interested.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 11:52 AM ET

In addition to the Center Ice question. Any word on the NHL Network arriving to Comcast markets in the U.S.?

Also, Paul, during the season, how many games would you generally watch in a day over Center Ice? Do you tape them, and watch them later? Or, do you rely more on the published reports that we are appreciate you linking to on your blog?

Posted by penguinsfan on 07/25/07 at 11:53 AM ET

Paul, what can the sabres do this season to still be a contender after black sunday? Short of hopes and prayers of course.

Also, Do you think they will ever learn how to treat people they like?

thanks

Posted by gosabres123(chris) from buffalo on 07/25/07 at 11:55 AM ET

Ha PF, I knew the NHL Network question would be coming and I am trying to get some word on it.
Watching games on CI consist of a split screen, which allows me to catch 4 games at a time.
Plus I do DVR the others and fast forward through the majority of the games.
As you know PF, is something happens that is newsworthy during a game, it is normally posted on KK within minutes.
I don’t rely on the games themselves for the KK links.  I depend more on the pubished stories that are of interest to hockey fans.
Never game recaps, those are available most anywhere, so it is the hockey stories that most of us are looking for that have a unique spin to them.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 11:59 AM ET

Chris, they may look as if they have taken a step back, but do remember they never got to the SCF the last two seasons.
Maybe they needed a little shakeup, but losing top players like they did was a bit much.
Can they recover, sure… Make the playoffs and anyone has a chance!
I would hope for the sake of the Sabres fans, that the team will change their stance on dealing with upcoming UFAs.  That is just my opinion.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 12:02 PM ET

good call pk, i will not write them off untill april.
i really hope Mr. Vanek can live up to his huge paycheck.
Also if Tim Connely can keep his head on i think well good stuff from him
They will be a solid team..they certainly have the hardware and support.
cant wait for october, its an addiction i swear.

Posted by gosabres123(chris) from buffalo on 07/25/07 at 12:28 PM ET

With so many of the top free agents signed and the secondary tier players being signed now, do you think some of these older players like an Eric Lindros need to decide if they’re coming back for another season? 
Specifically on Lindros, despite his claim that he hasnt decided, have teams showed interest?

Posted by Jim from toronto on 07/25/07 at 12:45 PM ET

Jim,
Players the caliber of Lindros have to decide if they want to take a salary decrease.
They are better off waiting as long as possible to sign, maybe a training camp injury coudl pop up, or a player who a team was expecting great things from, just doesn’t perform as expected.
If a team offered a player like Lindros the money he wanted, he would have signed by now.
So teams may be trying to get the best deal right now, but the player knows if they wait it out, the $$$ just may rise a bit.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 01:14 PM ET

Thanks Paul.  I’ve heard similar things about Forsberg and the possibility that he may even come in half way through the season.  Do you think with the salary cap now in place we may start to see veterans do this (come into a season already in progress) more often. (I think owen nolan did this too)

Posted by Jim from toronto on 07/25/07 at 01:32 PM ET

Paul,

Is there ever a chance that the NHL will do away with exclusivity contracts for TV and allow fans to get a team package instead of a CI package? I’d rather be allowed to throw down $250-350 and see every single game my team plays regardless of who is the broadcaster than miss some important matchups or half of the playoffs all-together because I can’t get VS in my area on dish.

Posted by Mark from AK on 07/25/07 at 01:59 PM ET

The NHL seems to be trying to globalize the sport of hockey. They talk about hockey in India, Mongolia, and England. I would like to know why they have failed to focus on nearby markets like Mexico and the rest of the latin american countries? Hockey is like soccer with sticks and i truly believe that these countries will embrace the sport. Thank you for your time and keep up the great work.

Posted by carlos hernandez from los angeles, ca on 07/25/07 at 02:01 PM ET

Jim, Forsberg has stated numerous times this sumer that he would not even think of returning to the NHL until his foot problem was taken care of.
He had recent surgery and just may be getting back on the ice- slolwy.
Nolan had an injury he was recovering from too, so unless these types of players cannot play up to their capabilities, I see no reason why they would just sit out.  Doing so, just puts them behind in conditioning, timing, etc.

Mark, good question and I will try to get an answer for you.

Carlos, Is there much hockey being played in Mexico and the Latin American countries.  I know they NHL played and exhibition game in P.R. last season, but there was really no follow up on the game after a week or so.
I would think soccer would be hard to overcome in the markets you describe.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 02:06 PM ET

Soccer is also huge in Europe and they seem to be faring pretty well with both sports. Now with the likes of Scott Gomez and Raffi Torres I believe that the if the NHL markets these players correctly they can help truly make hockey a global sport.Thanks again.

Posted by carlos hernandez from los angeles,ca on 07/25/07 at 02:13 PM ET

Who do you think will win the cup for the 2007-2008 NHL season

Posted by Spase from detroit Area on 07/25/07 at 02:46 PM ET

Geez Spase, ask me again in mid-April.
Right now, I am going with Ottawa.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 02:50 PM ET

Hey Paul, I’m a Wings fan much like you, and I’m curious what you would make the roster if you were Mike Babcock? There’s a roster spot up for grabs, and the players fighting for the last spot in the 12th position are different players in Drake, Hudler and Kopecky. What would you put together for lines?

Posted by Eric from North Dakota on 07/25/07 at 03:42 PM ET

I heard last year that the Lightning are pushed up against the cap and in the near future they would have to get rid of either Richards, St. Louis, or Lecavalier. Is this still true, or do you see them being able to retain those players?

-I’m a Flyers fan I am worried the Rangers or Devils might try to get them during the season in a trade.

Posted by Joe from New Jersey on 07/25/07 at 04:24 PM ET

Do you think Kansas City and/or Las Vegas will pick up a team and do you truly think Hamilton will ever get their hands on a NHL Franchise?

Posted by Tony from Mid-Michigan on 07/25/07 at 04:57 PM ET

Hi Paul, this is a two parter

1) How awesome would it be to be at the Staal party? Actually, if you look staal (jordan) up on youtube, there are plenty of pics of him partying in his junior days with the petes.

haha jk

2) Seriously, and this isnt my idea (its Jim Hughson’s), but i take it to be a great one. Will the NHL ever put into the CBA a clause that states a certain percentage of a player’s salary does not count against the cap IF that player wsa drafted (and has since continuously played for) that team. If you consider the situation the pens will be in, they will be essentially penalized because they scouted, drafted, and developed young players well. As soon as teams develop their young talent, they become UFA. IF a team has several young and talented players that they drafted (like the pens) they should be able to get something like a 30% break against the cap for the talent that they themselves produced. If this were the case, it would be easier to keep the talent that a team produces together.

Any thoughts?

Posted by underthechestnuttree from LaSalle, Ontario, Canada on 07/25/07 at 04:58 PM ET

PS: any more details about the London games? I’m pretty stoked to see that happen (that the season starts earlier is not the least of reasons why!). I hope it goes well.

Posted by underthechestnuttree from LaSalle, Ontario, Canada on 07/25/07 at 05:00 PM ET

Do you believe Pred owner Leipold may be too nervous about protecting his investment and his ability to sell the Predators to speak openly about the allegations of Bettman’s interference in the sale to Balsillie—unless the owners move to get rid of Bettman first?  It sounds as if Balsillie has to make a choice: take on Bettman. try to get a franchise by kissing and making up. or forget about it. Do you believe Balsillie can get a franchise with Bettman in control?

Posted by Bob from south of Chicago on 07/25/07 at 05:22 PM ET

Eric, Don’t forget Grigerinko, who just may surprise some people. Also, Matlby may be fighting for some playing time this year too.  I can see a battle brewing for the 11th and 12th spot, with players fighting for a playing position.
It is still early to set a lineup, come back late September.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 05:42 PM ET

Joe, regarding the Bolts, not sure where you are hearing that.
If Tampa doesn’t produce, sure they may be moved, but I look for them to have a comeback type season.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 05:44 PM ET

Paul, can you give me the names of any “hidden gems” for my fantasy team this year????

Posted by MarkMerc on 07/25/07 at 07:09 PM ET

Tony, I do believe you will see NHL hockey in all three of those cities by 2011.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:03 PM ET

Under… Attending a party with the Staals.. I don’t think so, I would have some Carol King and BTO playing on the 8 track.

Anything coming from Hughson should be looked at and that may be in the next CBA contract.
A note about the CBA, the players can re-open the contract after three years I believe, and guess what, three years is after the upcoming season.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:06 PM ET

Under… no more information on the games in London except to say they have been sold out.  Tickets go from $15-$165 (US) I believe.
I do hope we get to see both games on TV.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:08 PM ET

Bob, Regarding the Preds situation.  All that talk about Bettman interfering is just that, talk.
Mark my words, Leipold will get his money.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:09 PM ET

MarkMerc, hidden gems in fantasy, eh.  Well remember this name, Igor Grigorenko. 
If he makes the Wings roster, and he will be given every chance, he will make it because he is a goal scorer.  Not a defensive specialist, but a pure goal scorer.
He was in a serious car accident about four years ago, and he had “can’t miss” written all over him before that.
They say he is about 85% of what he once was, basically the same story as a young Slave Kozlov when he came up through the Wings organization.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:14 PM ET

Paul,
Do you think Glen Sather gets Alexei Cherepanov out of Russia this season and onto Madison Square Garden ice? Also what do you think about the Rangers sending Matt Cullen packing?  Will it help or hurt them?

Posted by Dean from New York City on 07/25/07 at 08:52 PM ET

They sometimes call the Canadiens the ” Habs ” how did they get that name?  Thanks Kevin

Posted by kevin kilpatrick from rapid city, south dakota on 07/25/07 at 08:54 PM ET

Dean, I do a lot of web browsing on a daily basis, heck, that is my job and I have read some reports out of Russia that stated Cherepanov would be playing there this year and next season too.
Most of us know a lot of those reports are slanted to the Russian side, but you do have to wonder.
Regarding Cullen, someone else has to step up.  It is the way of life these days with the CBA.  You take some and also have to lose some.
I know as a Wings fan I am making adjustments, just like you have to being a Rangers fan.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 08:57 PM ET

Kevin, I did some deep digging and this is from NHL.com,

The Canadiens / The “Habs”
In 1924, Madison Square Garden owner Tex Rickard was falsely told by someone that the “H” stood for “habitant”, a French word that in those days was used to denote the farmers of Quebec.
Rickard was told that the French players on the team came from the farms and that they were therefore “habitants” or “habs”. At the time, the Canadiens were recognized as the French team of Montreal as opposed to the Montreal Maroons, the English team.
On a side note, the Montreal logo of the C wrapped around the H stands for Club de Hockey Canadien. In 1917, at the founding of the NHL, the Canadiens changed their name to that from the previous Club Athletique Canadien.

Now, some Canadiens fans may have a different story, so hold on…

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 09:05 PM ET

Do you think the Sharks will be able to withstand the losses of Scott Hannan and Bill Guerin and, despite a period of relative dormancy during free agent season, advance further than the second round in the Stanley Cup playoffs?

Posted by Rick from San Jose, CA on 07/25/07 at 09:32 PM ET

Rick, I picked the Sharks to go to the SCF last season and was a bit surprised by their early exit, although I was very happy with the Wings defeating them.
A little new blood should help the Sharks and I look for them to make some moves at the trade deadline if need be.
They are a very good team, but if they don’t have a long run this season, look for some major movement.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 09:45 PM ET

paul, after a bad off-season, how do you think the devils will do this year?

Posted by jonathan from nj on 07/25/07 at 09:48 PM ET

Jonathan, I keep thinking of what Lou said a few weeks ago, stressing the team aspect of the game.
Sutter should be a great addition and I expect to see a little more wide open game from the Devils.
Playoffs should be in their sites, but the heatlh of Brodeur is key.  If Marty goes down for any length of time, then it may be time to raise the panic flag.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/25/07 at 09:52 PM ET

What is your opinion on the Red Wings Goaltending situation? Many Wings fans believe that Hasek is in his final year or two. Should we be giving a prospect more time in the net? Should we bring Osgood in as a starter when Hasek is done? Or should we bring in a veteran Goaltender?

Posted by Brian from East Moline, IL on 07/25/07 at 10:27 PM ET

Regarding the Devils. How do you think the defensive system and players the devils have had during martin brodeurs tenure have affected his stats and legacy. He’s a lock as far as the hall of fame but I was looking at his junior stats + minors and his GAA was over 3.00 every year. The first year he has a GAA under 3.00 was in the NHL. Maybe they don’t play defense in the QMJHL.

And everyone hates Bettman, why don’t the players assc and NHL get rid of him and replace him with Don Cherry.

Posted by Joe from New Jersey on 07/25/07 at 10:28 PM ET

I’ve always wondered if stats were kept for delayed penalties.  Like, how many goals were scored during them, or what is the longest one etc.

Posted by BC from St. Louis on 07/25/07 at 11:22 PM ET

Paul, I’m a Red Wings Fan and I’m wondering what you think about their defense next year with the loss of Schneider and the addition of Rafalski do you think it will be improved much or will they have to score more goals to win games?

Posted by Chris on 07/25/07 at 11:34 PM ET

How do you think the Avs look now after missing the playoffs, with the new additions?  And do they have any off season moves left, maybe Peter Forsberg?

Posted by Rem from FT. Lewis, WA on 07/25/07 at 11:48 PM ET

Haha it was blasting the BTO that probably got them into trouble in the first place.

A couple quickies:

with the new arenas in Vegas and Kansas (and to a lesser degree Winnipeg) do you feel the league will expand or relocate. I know Bettman is in love with expansion fees, but does he honestly feel hockey can be a 32+ team sport in North America, particularly given his selection of cities. (where is Hamilton, Winnipeg, Seattle, dare I say Quebec, hell, maybe even the Portland Rosebuds should come back before the Scouts do)

Will the refs ever have their names back on their sweaters?

Any general game improvements for next season? IE: a puck that ‘knows’ it has crossed the goal line, sort of like the tennis ball at wimbledon? High Speed or High Def cameras in arenas? The NBA whistle that will automatically itself stop the clock?

Will another Canadian team make the finals just to lose again, for the 4th year in a row?

Probably most important (even though I hate ESPN at this point) when is the VS deal up?

Thanks a million, youve opened a bag of worms with this one

PS: As for Rafalski, since he’s been a wing i’ve downloaded the all star game and several regular season NJD games. I just…dont get it. Maybe once I see him in the Joe it’ll come to me.

Posted by underthechestnuttree from LaSalle, Ontario, Canada on 07/25/07 at 11:50 PM ET

Hey!
Whats the situation in ottawa, we’ve just re-signed emery, but what will we do with gerber? have you heard anything in the news? any trade talks?

Posted by Kurtis from Ontario on 07/25/07 at 11:55 PM ET

I’ve been following the NHL as a Senators fan since 1996 as close as possible (which is not easy in Belgium, luckily there’s still NHL.com). Alexei Yashin was one of my first hero’s of the game and has always had a place in my hockey heart through his highs and the lows. I was shocked to see such talented player being put on the fourth line by Ted Nolan. Do you think Yashin could still bring a solid game to the ice or do you believe, like all NHL teams appanently, that he is no longer NHL material?

Posted by captain bra from Maldegem, Belgium on 07/26/07 at 04:03 AM ET

Ummm i was wondering if maybe you have any inside information on what the leafs are doing about peca? if they dont keep him it will be the sconde year in a row that they have signed people in the free agency and only kept the worst one….any ideas as to why they do that?

Posted by justin on 07/26/07 at 06:05 AM ET

Brian, Regarding the Wings goaltending situation, both Hasek and Osgood will once again be UFAs at the end of the year.
Hasek is a sure to retire, Osgood is still up in the air.
The Wings would love to see either Howard or Liv come on strong this season and that is what they are hoping for.
Both need to work on aspects of their game and need to have a great season in the minors.
Getting a veteran goalie will not come cheap.  With Zetterberg and Lidstrom up for new contracts next season, the Wings may have a cap issue trying to sign or trade for a topflight NHL goatender.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:15 AM ET

What do you think the chances are of:

Peter Bondra playing in the NHL 2007-2008?

and

Returning to Washington?

Posted by david h from alexandria, va on 07/26/07 at 08:21 AM ET

Joe, Regarding Brodeur…
He is a world class goaltender, no doubt about it.  Playing in the Devils defensive system has helped him a bit, but no matter where he played, he would be putting up similar stats.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:21 AM ET

BC, I will work on the delayed penalty stats question…

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:22 AM ET

Chris, the Wings defense will be fine.  The power play may struggle early in the season, but with Lidstrom playing on one point, whoever is playing on the other will benefit.
The real question is their 2nd pp unit, Kronwall must step up and be a force.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:25 AM ET

Rem, the Avs have certainly improved.  Solid goaltending will be the question that hasn’t been answered yet.
Forsberg would be a nice fit, but wait another few months before Peter decides where he wants to play.  He will have options and $$$ will talk.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:27 AM ET

I am asking the long asked question yet again…

Will Detroit EVER be put into the Eastern Conference??? We are the only team in the Western Conference yet in the *Eastern* time zone. Does that not mean anything?  And why do we continue to be screwed over with our schedules because every year we end up playing the sames teams for a month. Who wants to go to games in the last month before the playoffs because we play the same 4 teams with ONE, I say, One break in playing them. It isn’t fair! And why have we still not seen many of the superstar hockey players? We are lucky that this year we get to see Ovechkin this year and we still haven’t been able to see Crosby. Does the world of hockey really (and any other sport we are good at with the exception of the Lyons…) hate Detroit that much? Many people keep expecting that Detroit is going to not do so well every year. And yet we still come out shining. I’m so very proud of our teams but the way we get treated just isn’t fair.

Posted by I <3 Datsyuk from Detroit on 07/26/07 at 08:31 AM ET

I would like to know your theory on the New Jersey Devils.
What are going to be there strong and weak points? Do you think there defense will be consistent enough to win games?  Can there off season acquisitions help make up for the loss of Gomez and Rafalski?

Posted by Leon Tanner on 07/26/07 at 08:33 AM ET

Under The…
Whew, I desererve extra credit for this one…
I see two expansion teams in the next five years… A team relocating is not something the NHL wants and will avoid it at all costs.  Right now it is hard to say, but this season may tell us one or two teams just may have to move.

I do believe the on ice officials did at one time have their names on the back.  Removing them made them more anonymous, which is what they want.

No chip in the puck yet.  HD cameras have been instaalled in some arenas, not sure if all of them though.
I will check to see if any other enhancements have been made.

Will a Canadian team make it to the SCF?  Not sure about that, but I can safely say the majority of players on the team will probably be Canadian.

The other questions you have need more research and the bill is in the mail!

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:35 AM ET

Kurtis, moving Gerber right now is tough.  If a team has a goaltending issue once the season starts, maybe and injury or a goalie just goes into the tank, it may be easier to move him.
I do know Murray has said Gerber will not be sent to the minors just to clear some cap space.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:37 AM ET

Captain Bra, see this post on Yashin.  He need to clear his head!

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:39 AM ET

Just to answer you sir, why do you care?  Detroit is consistently successful in the west.  If they were gonna play hockey in the east, they would not be able to handle it.  Way to physical for a team like the Red Wings

Posted by Leon Tanner on 07/26/07 at 08:39 AM ET

Justin, I have no inside information on Peca.  I do know he wants to make a decision in the next few days.
Today there are reports the Leafs are attempting to get him signed, but will they is a question that can’t be answered right now.
Maybe JFJ will read this and respond!

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:41 AM ET

David H, Bondra will not play in Washington.  Will he play in the NHL again, right now it looks doubtful.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:42 AM ET

Will the Wings ever play in the east again?... I sure hope so but don’t forget, Columbus is also in the west and is in the eastern time zone.
A few folks in the Wings organization have stated the Wings will have first crack at moving to the east if the opportunity comes about, either with league realignment, expansion, etc.
As a fan of the Wings, I want to see them move.  Tired of watching too many games that start at 10 or 10:30pm.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:45 AM ET

Tanner, I really don’t know enough about the Devils to break it down for you.
But I will try to find someone who does.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:47 AM ET

A reader emailed me this question?
Which college, has sent the most players to the NHL?
Anyone know, get to browsing the web folks, I am sure someone can come up with the answer!

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 08:52 AM ET

I don’t understand why the commisoner is so keen on having teams in non hockey markets. If they start a team in Seattle, it could possibly be sucessful because of its close location to BC. But as far as KC, Las Vegas and places like that. They could possibly turn into the Nashville Predators. A team with a 1st place team and averaging under 14,000 fans a game. I know he’s trying to expand and grab the american fans that have not been exposed to the sport but come on. It hasn’t worked too well in Atlanta, Carolina, Florida Phoenix, and has been a disaster in Nashville. I’m from the Philadelphia area and the Flyers sucked last year and still were up there with Toronto, Detroit, Montreal etc. in terms of attendance. The NHL needs to move teams to areas like that where they can be succesful. Hamilton would be a great place, that is if the Leafs and Sabres don’t try to stop a team from moving there. Don’t you think the NHL would be blowing a huge oppurtunity with regards as to whats going on with the NBA right now.

Posted by Joe from New Jersey on 07/26/07 at 08:59 AM ET

Paul, do you think the Hurricanes have a legitamite shot at winning the Southeast Division again this year?

Posted by Gipper from Massachusetts on 07/26/07 at 09:10 AM ET

Tanner, on the Devils…..

The Devils are well-structured enough to cancel out for the losses off
> Gomez and Rafalski.  Let’s not forget, Gomez had a subpar season last
> year, and only finished fourth on the team in scoring.  In fact, the man
> they signed to replace Gomer - Dainius Zuburus - had the same number of
> points as #23 did last year (60).
>
> As far as Rafalski goes, he will not be missed too much.  His defensive
> game was never quite the same once Stevens retired.  He can be easily
> replaced.
>
> Brent Sutter is a good coach for this team.  He will help Parise, Zajac
> and Martin develop into top-flight NHL players.  Don’t be shocked if
> Parise and/or Zajac have All-Star caliber season under the new man.
>
> Overall, the Devils will likely finish in the same place as they did last
> year, out in the second round.  They still have Brodeur, and as long as
> they rest him enough with Kevin Weekes, he’ll be rarin’ to go come playoff
> time.  With Marty Brodeur in net, anything is possible.

Posted by Steve from Battle of NY on 07/26/07 at 09:10 AM ET

Paul,  I was wondering if you had any thoughts on getting started in a hockey-oriented business career.  Either with the NHL or with a specific team.  As a non-professional player, it seems from the outside that all the GMs and such are former NHLers.  Is there any hope?

Posted by Andrew from New York on 07/26/07 at 09:14 AM ET

Joe, I am sure their is a game plan for the NHL when it comes to expanasion, etc.  Is it right, only time will tell but your view on it has been heard and noted.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 09:16 AM ET

Gipper, every team in the Southeast has a legimate shot at winning their division.
Getting off to a fast start is key.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 09:18 AM ET

Andrew, I am not sure if you are aware, but the NHL does post a hockey job board.
Other than that, contact the HR departments of teams, be persistent but courteous.
Most important, get your foot in the door any way you can.  If you have what it takes, others will notice.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 09:22 AM ET

Any word yet on NHL Network U.S.?

Posted by Steve from New York on 07/26/07 at 09:35 AM ET

Paul, have you heard anything whatsoever about Ziggy Palffy in the last few months?
Is a comeback in order, is he done for good?
It seems there isnt a lot of information on him lately.

Posted by PuckHound61 from Speckville USA on 07/26/07 at 09:50 AM ET

PH, you must have missed it regarding Ziggy.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 09:53 AM ET

I find it hard to understand the exile that the Rangers have put Darius Kasparaitis in.  If he does not fit into the teams plans, then trade him or buy him out.  The way that they have treated him gives me the impression that he must have done something to really upset them.  They have shown a well liked team player and NHL vet. no respect and have destroyed his confedence and trade value.  Can someone please explain?

Posted by RONSTER from NY. NY. on 07/26/07 at 09:53 AM ET

PH, you must have missed it regarding Ziggy

Thanks.. I think I was away that day and indeed missed that.

Posted by PuckHound61 from Speckville USA on 07/26/07 at 10:00 AM ET

Why the heck does Gary Bettman continue his crusade to Vegas and Kansas when Winnipeg is starving for a team?

Posted by Scott Wilson from Calgary, Alberta on 07/26/07 at 10:54 AM ET

Hey Paul, thanks a lot for the feedback.  The person who told you that really seems to know what he’s talking about.  I have another question, whats your theory on the physical play this year? Do you see an increase in fighting and lots of rough play then the last 2 years since the new rules?

Posted by Leon Tanner on 07/26/07 at 11:03 AM ET

paul, im sorry to bother you with another question but i saw that peca’s name came up and i wonder what you think his chances are of signing with buffalo
I know darcy said they were sticking with what they have but its still being reported, and he didnt say no.  it would be a huge step especially after black sunday
he lives in buffalo
he loves buffao
buffalo loves him…sort of
a fan favorite(sometimes)
i think its a great choice for both parties

Is it possible or just a dream to go back to where he was made?

thank you for doing this..its great.

Posted by gosabres123(chris) from buffalo on 07/26/07 at 11:53 AM ET

Paul,
Where can I find a summary of the arbitration hearings?
Thanks,
Nic

Posted by Nic on 07/26/07 at 11:54 AM ET

Steve, nothing on the NHL Network yet…

Also, some folks are emailing questions to me.  I would much prefer those questions be posted here, where more than one person can see the answer.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:00 PM ET

Ronster, Reports say Kasparaitis is in shape and ready to compete for a job.
Do the Rangers want to keep him is the question.  If not, his play in pre-season games may make him available for trade, but his play will be the key.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:04 PM ET

Scott, I really don’t see a crusade from Bettman when it comes to KC and Vegas.
It is all media driven right now.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:05 PM ET

Leon, the physical play seemed to pick up the last 1/3 of last season and I hope it is allowed.  But the clutching, grabbing and interference must be called, or else we go back to the mid-90’s, not what we as fans want to see.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:07 PM ET

GoSabres, Peca, Peca, Peca.  All I know is he mentioned he wants to make a decision soon.  Wants to get the family settled in, etc.
Toronto, Buffalo and the NYR have all been the teams I am hearing that have interest.
Wait a few days, if not, Peca may not sign until the beginning of training camp.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:09 PM ET

Nic, TSN has an arbitration schedule with results.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 12:11 PM ET

I know it’s easy to find stats for point-getters, but I can’t find a site that has stats for things like total hits, hits per game, shots blocked, etc.  Yet they’re mentioned all the time in articles and during games.  I know the media has access to more info than us regular people, but why aren’t these stats available to us?

Posted by K24 from NYC on 07/26/07 at 12:30 PM ET

Paul,

My trips to a few Panthers games this past winter gave me a very concrete image of just how dead that market is.  They simply don’t draw.  They ice a fairly young team with a whole bunch of potential and have played pretty well at home the last two years, yet if a puck drops in Sunrise I’m fairly certain it doesn’t make a sound according to that old saying. 

I’m sure the situation seems just as dire in places like Nashville, Phoenix and the like.  How can higher ups in this league see the state of these franchises and continue to have an interest in expansion?  What literally does the league and do the owner’s stand to gain from new teams?  What kind of dollar figures are we talking here that inspire these people to plop down teams in markets seemingly destined for failure?  Do you maybe have any examples from the arrival of the Blue Jackets or Wild or another newer club?

Posted by michaelsmith1994 from New Jersey on 07/26/07 at 01:51 PM ET

Do you agree with LeBrun and others who figure the cap could hit 60 Mill by 2010?

Posted by Dan from Halifax on 07/26/07 at 02:18 PM ET

Without a doubt Dan and that is a good thing, for all teams but forces management to make the right, player personnel decisions.  If you give a big contract to a player who doesn’t meet up to the standards, it puts you way behind in this salary cap world.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 02:22 PM ET

K24, I have had that question before about the stats, and someone online does keep track, but for the life of me, I can’t recall it.
Maybe if you search thru the Hockey Links you just may find it or hopefully a reader will chime in too.

Will those type of stats be available to all in the future, I would hope so but we will have to wait and see.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/26/07 at 02:41 PM ET

Paul, thanks for the quick reply on my Rafalski question.

a)I’m curious to know what you think Detroits top two lines will look like regarding who’ll end up playing with Datsyuk and Zetterberg and if they’ll be seperated to start the year.

b)I also was wondering if they plan to sign any defenseman to replace the physical play of Danny Markov, or if they hope Kronwall can stay healthy and be a force both physically and offinsively because I dont think Chelios can be counted on for as many big hits as he could a few years ago.

c)I know you said you didn’t want to work on line combos earlier with someone but I just couldn’t resist.Do you think the lines could be something like Holmstrom-Datsyuk-GrigerinkoFillpula-Zetterberg-Franzen with Lidstrom-Kronwall and Rafalski-Chelios as the top D-pairings?

d)Oh last thing! Does Detroit have the cap room to make a move on Forsberg if/when he decides he’s ready to come back to the NHL and do you think theres any chance he would sign?

Thanks a lot!
Chris

Posted by Chris on 07/27/07 at 01:54 AM ET

Hey Paul,

I heard somewhere that if the NHL and Comcast don’t launch the NHL Network in the states, they have to pay a $15 million fine, and that the deadline for that is July 31st, so they can get it launched sometime in August. Is this true, and doy know anything about the network yet?

Posted by Steve from New York on 07/27/07 at 10:17 AM ET

What sort of checks and balances are in place to stop corruption of the NHL Officials (as seen recently in the NBA and further back in German soccer)?

fact: NHL teams pay top player upwards of $7million per season

fact: NHL referees make around $100thousand per season

fact: a team could double the annual salary of each referee involved in a playoff game to make calls in their favour for the massively cheap price of $200-300K

fact: if each series go 5.5 games on average, for a trip all the way to the finals paying off the refs each game it would cost the team 4x5.5x$300,000= $6.6million which is less than the cost of a high end player.

Posted by Todd from Vancouver on 07/27/07 at 10:18 AM ET

Steve and Todd, I am trying to get answers to your questions.  It may take a few days but working on them.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/27/07 at 10:46 AM ET

Todd, Check out this piece from the Hockey News regarding what the NHL is doing the integrity issue.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/27/07 at 11:29 AM ET

A reader emailed me this question.
I was informed that at one time the Montreal Canadians were allowed to draft two french canadians before any other team, is this true and if so what years did this take place?

I knew at one time this was very true, but didn’t know all the details so I emailed my buddy Joe Pelletier of the Legends of Hockey Network. 
Joe responded,...The answer is yes, Montreal negotiated a cultural allowance to ensure they had first crack at the top two Quebecois players. This allowance existed from 1963 through 1969, but it was only invoked in 1968 and 1969. In ‘68 the Habs secured goaltender Michel Plasse and center
Roger Belisle. In 1969 Montreal selected Rejean Houle and Marc Tardif.

You can get more information here...

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/27/07 at 04:28 PM ET

I’m not an avid follower of all aspects of hockey as I would like to be so could you possibly explain all the key elements of the Draft and what qualities, skills, and any other elements a player must possess to even be considered? To go along with this I have followed USHL hockey quite a bit having a team in Indiana and all that so what I have noticed is that not too many of those players seem to have qualify for the Draft, maybe a handful if that, are other leagues stronger or more noticed than that of the USHL? In your opinion are there more qualified players out there that should have should have been selected for the Draft?

Posted by Carson from Nashville on 07/28/07 at 04:57 PM ET

Hey Paul,

I heard from a reliable source that ESPN desperately wants to televise hockey again, and that the NHL may in fact go back to them, along with the Versus and NBC contracts, and that that if that happens, the NHL could use Versus as a vehicle for the NHL Network U.S.

Also I heard that along with launching the NHL Network U.S., Comcast may also start some kind of NHL on demand service, with on demand classic games, as well as live streams over the internet.

What’s the deal, Is this stuff true? I hope it is, because it would mean the most TV exposure in America hockey has ever seen, and the league desperately needs some publicity in the states. I think ESPN and the NHL Network would be a huge help for the game in America

Posted by Steve from New York on 07/28/07 at 05:17 PM ET

Thanks for the response but what do u mean when you say, “its not what the fans want to see referring to what occurred in the mid 90’s
?

Posted by Leon Tanner on 07/28/07 at 11:28 PM ET

Aarson, James Fitzpatrick has a pretty good summary of the draft and it is so true.

Despite today’s highly advanced and thorough scouting methods, the evaluation and selection of young hockey players remains an inexact science. NHL stars who gained little notice during their draft years include Brett Hull (selected 117th in 1984), Peter Bondra (156th in 1990) and Daniel Alfredsson (130th in 1994). Ed Belfour, Curtis Joseph and Adam Oates are among those who were never drafted.

It is so hit and miss today.  Some teams look at players that will fit in their “system”, some look for size others look for speed.
You may notice the teams that have been successful recently do have some core players that were drafted by their team, so drafting is key yet not an exact science.

The USHL is not considered one of the major leagues for drafting, but I do not cover the USHL much and therefore can’t really give you more than that.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/29/07 at 01:21 PM ET

Steve, Regarding ESPN and the NHL Network… I am trying to get the correct answer on these topics, but haven’t been able to do so.  That just may mean nothing has been settled yet or someone is on a long vacation!!!
I have brought up the ESPN talk numerous times in the past 6 months, but that is what it is these days, just talk.  Before commenting further, I want to get the right answer.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/29/07 at 01:23 PM ET

Leon, I was referring to the trap, clutch and grab type of play.
To me, it was the darkest period of hockey that I witnessed.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/29/07 at 01:24 PM ET

do u by any chance have alist of the arbitration dates that are coming up…If u dont have a full list im interested in sean avery..
thankyou

Posted by Antoinette from brooklyn ny on 07/29/07 at 11:20 PM ET

One thing I was always wondering about was why NHL teams do not have any sponsor logos on their jerseys. Over here in Europe, players in their sweaters look more or less like an advertising pillar.
So, is it officially prohibited to put sponsor logos on NHL sweaters or is it just an unwritten law?

Posted by Ralle from Germany on 07/30/07 at 05:07 AM ET

Antoinette, TSN has the full arbitrartion schedule…

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/30/07 at 07:59 AM ET

Ralle, right now it just isn’t done in the NHL.  But in one of my recent NHL.com blogs, I wondered if we would soon be seeing advertising patches on the new jerseys.
I am not sure what the reaction from the fans would be, but my opionin is that it is coming.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/30/07 at 08:01 AM ET

OKL everyone who had questions regarding the NHL Network plus some ESPN talk, check out this post from today on KK.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/30/07 at 10:38 AM ET

Who do you think will wear the No. 8 on the Carolina Hurricanes this year???
Also, where do you think the Canes will finish in the standings this season?

Posted by Vicky from Raleigh North Carolina on 07/30/07 at 12:15 PM ET

quick question paul im not sure if you would know this but is there any word of the flyers naming a captain in the near future?

Posted by Eric from philly from PA on 07/30/07 at 02:56 PM ET

Hi Paul,
After todays disaster regarding NYR GM Glen Sather’s comments that Sean Avery is ” A Detriment To The Team” in the arbitration hearing. Do you think Sean Avery will be a New York Ranger after next season?

Posted by Dean on 07/30/07 at 10:41 PM ET

Hi,

What do you think about Vanbiesbrouk’s comments that Olli Jokinen can not lead the team? I think it’s ridiculous, since Jokinen himself said that he haven’t even been in the same room with the person in question.

Posted by Sista on 07/31/07 at 11:05 AM ET

Well done KK….
Real proud of graduating to the big leagues….

Could you clarify, as one of my blog readers asked this of me…you would know better:

Anonymous said…
  How does the new CBA work with arbitration and trading?
  Sather would be in great shape if the arbitrator rules for a one year 2 million dollar base salary for Avery. Sather could then turn around and trade Avery for much need backend support for the King!
  I remember hearing that this isn’t allowed in the new CBA??

Posted by The Dark Ranger from New York City on 07/31/07 at 07:55 PM ET

Vicky, right now the Hurricane roster shows Gleason with #8 and Cullen has no number assigned.
I am sure it will be settled by the time training camp opens up.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/31/07 at 10:15 PM ET

Eric, no word on the wearing of the “C” yet for the Flyers, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see it rotate through some key players.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/31/07 at 10:17 PM ET

Dean, yes, I do think Avery will be a Ranger going into the next season.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/31/07 at 10:18 PM ET

Sista, Beezer is entitled to his opinion and in this instance I agree to disagree with him. 
He should have keep his thoughts private.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/31/07 at 10:20 PM ET

Dark Ranger, I am working on the correct answer for you.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 07/31/07 at 10:25 PM ET

Paul,
  Thank you so much for doing this. You were right, this is a fantastic reference spot. From taking note of your entries you have been working tirelessly at it. No question this time…just a big shout out of appreciation!

Posted by J- from CT on 07/31/07 at 11:17 PM ET

Dark Ranger, I went to my good friend Spector for the answer to your question regarding arbitration and trading.

A player taken to arbitration can be traded after receiving his award. The prime example of this is Roberto Luongo, who was taken to arbitration by the Panthers and dealt to the Canucks midway through his two-year arbitration awarded contract. In reading Article 12 of the CBA which deals with arbitration I could find nothing suggesting a player couldn’t be traded following arbitration. I think “The Dark Ranger” may be confusing arbitration with offer sheets, whereby no player can be dealt for one year following receipt of said offer.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 08/01/07 at 07:46 AM ET

Thanks for the compliment J., it is much appreciated and I enjoy talking hockey. 
Finding some of the answers is a good way for me to get in shape for the upcoming season.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 08/01/07 at 07:47 AM ET

Paul,
Huge thanks for the info.  Makes sense.  Also, extend my thanks to Spector.  Huge fan of both sites and again, good luck, with the new skates!!!!

The Dark Ranger

Posted by The Dark Ranger from NYC on 08/01/07 at 08:47 AM ET

Hey Paul,
I just started on here and I think this is great. Anyways just two quick questions; 1. Who do you beleave is the best tough guy in the NHL today? And 2. With the new look on defence do you believe the Canadiens will improve or decline this season? Thanks

Posted by Ian from Fredericton, New Brunswick Canda on 08/29/07 at 09:50 AM ET

Hi Ian and thanks for participating.
The tough guys in the NHL- Heck on any given night, you can take your pick from the 5 or 6 usual suspects.  But if I had to choose, right now it would be Boogaard.

I think the Canadiens will be a much harder team to play against this season.  Injuries and the depth of the team are things to watch out for.  If Markov or Kamisarek suffer a long term injury, watch out, it could get ugly.
Hamrlik should do a decent job replacing Souray on the PP and should be a steady Dman.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 08/29/07 at 10:12 AM ET

Do you think that Carey Price will live up to the hype or will he become a fall through choice?

Posted by Ian M on 08/29/07 at 11:44 AM ET

Ian, I really haven’t followed the career path of Price, but everything I have heard is very good and he is a great prospect.
The thing to remember with young goalies, they need to play and work with the coaches to correct minor flaws, etc.
Once the “book” on a goalie gets out, such as he can be beaten to the high glove side, NHL snipers will take advantage of that flaw.
He needs to be 100% ready and the only way to that is to play, in other words, don’t rush him.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 08/29/07 at 12:01 PM ET

Paul, do you know when the NHL Center Ice package will start to be offered? I have read that providers have to renew there contract with the NHL?? And any new news of the US version of NHL Network? Thanks for the info?

Posted by Jimmie from NC on 08/29/07 at 08:54 PM ET

Jimmie, Last year on Sept. 7th I posted about it being available and if I recall correctly, it was even available a couple of days before that.
I am on Comcast and the one good thing about getting it early, they turned it on and I was able to enjoy some of the MLB package for about a month.

I know they are still working on the NHL Network for the USA.
I have been told just hold on….

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 08/29/07 at 09:08 PM ET

Just to let everyone know, Directv is now offering NHL Center Ice. The early bird price is just like last year at $149. I don’t see as of yet Indemand or Dish offering it but it’s probably just a matter of time…I can’t wait until hockey season get here! :]

Posted by Jimmie from NC on 09/01/07 at 02:55 AM ET

Paul, why was Igor Grigorenko sent to the minors? and should i dump him from my fantasy team? If not will he be back soon? Mark

Posted by Mark from New York on 10/03/07 at 07:12 AM ET

Mark, He came to camp in non-NHL shape.  A few weeks in the minors will be his wake-up call.
Wait it out but if you have a better option, dump him.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 10/03/07 at 07:24 AM ET

Paul, did you hear any CONFIRMED word on whether Hossa is going to play tonight against the flyers??? Thanks Mark

Posted by Mark on 10/16/07 at 02:38 PM ET

Mark, according to Blueland Blog, looks like he is playing.  I do know he practiced yesterday.

Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 10/16/07 at 02:42 PM ET

Hi Paul, I read in the latest Hockey News that Igor Grigorenko, didnt steal a spot on Detroits Roster, now is that cause of his conditioning, or is he gonna stay in the minors? Any info will help, dont want to dump him just yet. Mark

Posted by Mark from New York on 10/18/07 at 01:34 PM ET