NHL Free Agency Thread

[dont you move]

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
6:27PM New York Islanders sign UFA forward Doug Weight (1-year, $1.75 million).
6:05PM Philadelphia Flyers re-sign defenceman Randy Jones (2-years, undisclosed) and forward Riley Cote (3-years, undisclosed).
5:16PM Dallas Stars sign RFA forward B.J. Crombeen (1-year, undisclosed).
5:01PM Colorado Avalanche re-sign RFA forward Wojtek Wolski (2-years, undisclosed).
4:58PM Pittsburgh Penguins sign UFA defenceman Brooks Orpik to a six-year, $22.5 million contract.
4:41PM Minnesota Wild re-sign RFA defenceman Kurtis Foster (1-year, $1.025 million).
3:38PM Atlanta Thrashers sign UFA defenceman Ron Hainsey to a five-year, $22.5 million contract.
3:03PM Ottawa Senators sign UFA Forward Jarkko Ruutu to a three-year, $3.9 million contract.
2:33PM Ottawa Senators sign UFA Forward Shean Donovan to a two-year contract.
1:22PM Dallas Stars sign UFA Forward Sean Avery to a four-year, $15.5 million contract.
1:00PM Calgary Flames sign UFA defenceman Jim Vandermeer (undisclosed) and UFA forward Curtis Glencross (undisclosed).
12:45PM Vancouver Canucks sign UFA goaltender Curtis Sanford. (Undisclosed)
12:35PM Detroit Red Wings sign UFA forward Marian Hossa to a one-year contract worth $7.4 million.
12:01PM Vancouver Canucks sign UFA forward Ryan Johnson (undisclosed)
11:13AM Carolina Hurricanes sign RFA defenceman Joni Pitkanen to a three-year contract worth $12 million.
11:13AM Carolina Hurricanes sign UFA defenceman Josef Melichar to a one-year contract worth $1 million.
10:20AM Tampa Bay Lightning re-sign RFA defenceman Janne Niskala, to a one-year deal.
9:18AM Tampa Bay Lightning re-sign RFA forward Ryan Craig to a two-year contract worth $1.575-million.
TUESDAY, JULY 1
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
9:58PM Boston sign forward Michael Ryder to a 3-year deal worth $12 million
9:50PM New York Rangers re-signed goaltender Steve Valiquette (undisclosed)
8:06PM New York Islanders sign defenceman Mark Streit to a five-year contract worth $20.5 million
7:59PM Minnesota sign forward Craig Weller to a two-year contract worth $600,000 a season
7:44PM Tampa Bay Lightning sign forward David Koci to a one-year, two-way deal worth $525,000 in the NHL, $100,000 in the minors
7:37PM New York Rangers sign UFA defenceman Wade Redden to a six-year contract worth $39 million
7:18PM New Jersey Devils sign UFA forward Bobby Holik to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million
6:42PM Toronto Maple Leafs sign UFA forward Niklas Hagman to a four-year contract worth $12 million
6:42PM New York Rangers re-sign UFA defenceman Michal Rozsival to a four-year deal worth $20 million
6:34PM Vancouver Canucks sign UFA forward Darcy Hordichuk to a two-year deal
6:33PM Philadelphia Flyers sign UFA forward Nate Raduns to a one-year deal
6:32PM Philadelphia Flyers sign UFA forward Glen Metropolit to a two-year deal
6:24PM New Jersey signs UFA forward Brian Rolston to a four year deal worth $20-million
6:15PM New York Rangers sign UFA forward Patrick Rissmiller to an undisclosed deal
6:06PM Philadelphia signs UFA defenceman Ossi Vaananen to a one year deal worth $1-million
6:01PM Columbus signs UFA defenceman Mike Commodore to a 5 year deal worth $18.75-million
5:40PM Chicago signs UFA defenceman Brian Campbell to an 8 year deal worth $56.8-million
5:04PM Buffalo signs UFA goaltender Patrick Lalime to a 2 year deal worth $2-million
4:27PM Ottawa signs UFA goaltender Alex Auld to a 2 year deal worth $2-million
4:14PM Tampa Bay signs UFA goaltender Olaf Kolzig to a 1 year deal worth $1.5-million (plus bonuses).
4:02PM Colorado signs UFA forward Darcy Tucker to a 2 year deal worth $4.5-million
3:49PM Vancouver signs RFA forward David Backes to an offer sheet, 3 years $7.5-million. St. Louis has seven days to match or accept a 2nd round draft pick as compensation.
3:43PM Chicago signs UFA goaltender Cristobal Huet (undisclosed)
3:41PM Florida signs UFA forward Cory Stillman to a 3 year deal worth $10.6-million
3:40PM NY Rangers sign UFA forward Aaron Voros (undisclosed)
3:40PM Pittsburgh signs UFA forward Eric Godard to a 3 year deal (undisclosed)
3:38PM Tampa Bay signs UFA forward Adam Hall to a 3 year deal worth $1.8-million
3:24PM Toronto signs UFA goaltender Curtis Joseph to a 1 year deal worth $700,000
3:24PM Toronto signs UFA defenceman Jeff Finger to a 4 year deal worth $3.5-million a season
3:09PM Phoenix signs UFA forward Todd Fedoruk to a 3 year deal (undisclosed)
3:07PM Detroit signs UFA goaltender Ty Conklin to a 1 year deal worth $750,000
3:07PM Montreal re-signs RFA forward Andrei Kostitsyn to a 3 year deal worth $3.25-million a season
3:03PM Colorado signs UFA goaltender Andrew Raycroft to a 1 year deal worth $800,000
2:53PM Washington signs UFA goaltender Jose Theodore to a 2 year deal (undisclosed)
2:50PM Phoenix signs UFA defenceman Kurt Sauer to a 4 year deal worth an average of $1.75-million a year
2:02PM Pittsburgh Penguins re-sign UFA defenceman Mark Eaton to a 2 year deal worth $2-million
1:58PM Minnesota Wild sign UFA forward Andrew Brunette to 3 year deal worth $7-million.
1:33PM Vancouver signs RFA forward Kyle Wellwood to a 1 year deal worth $997,500.
12:55PM Boston signs UFA forward Blake Wheeler to an entry-level contract.
12:52PM Lightning sign UFA forward Radim Vrbata to a $9-million, three-year contract.
12:04PM Anaheim re-sign forward Corey Perry to a five-year deal worth $26.625-million which will average $5.325-million a year.
11:58AM Pittsburgh Penguins sign forward Pascal Dupuis to a three-year deal which will average $1.4-million per year.
11:58AM Detroit Red Wings and veteran defenseman Brad Stuart have agreed to terms on a 4 year contract that averages 3.75 per year.
11:35AM New Jersey re-signs forwards Jay Pandolfo (3 years, $7.5-million) David Clarkson (undisclosed) and Barry Tallackson (undisclosed). Declines option on forward Sergei Brylin.
10:21AM New Jersey agrees to terms with defenceman Bryce Salvador to a four-year deal worth $11.6 million (average of $2.9 million per season).
8:45AM Washington re-signs defenceman Mike Green to a four-year deal worth $21 million (average of $5.25 million per season).
MONDAY, JUNE 30
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
6:53PM Detroit Red Wings re-sign defenceman Andreas Lilja to a two-year contract.
6:45PM Buffalo Sabres re-sign forward Paul Gaustad to a four-year, $9.2 million contract.
6:39PM San Jose Sharks re-sign forward Jody Shelley to a two-year contract.
5:55PM Tampa Bay Lightning sign forward Vaclav Prospal to a multi-year contract.
8:03AM Tampa Bay Lightning sign forward Gary Roberts to a one-year contract.
SUNDAY, JUNE 29
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
9:20PM Colorado Avalanche sign defenceman John-Michael Liles to four-year, $16 million contract.
9:20PM Colorado Avalanche sign defenceman Adam Foote to an undisclosed contract.
8:00PM Tampa Bay Lightning sign forward Ryan Malone to seven-year, $31.5 million contract.
FRIDAY, JUNE 27
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
2:10PM Calgary Flames re-sign forward Daymond Langkow to an undisclosed contract.
2:10PM Calgary Flames re-sign forward Craig Conroy to an undisclosed contract.
2:10PM Calgary Flames re-sign forward Eric Nystrom to an undisclosed contract.
2:10PM Calgary Flames re-sign goaltender Curtis McElhinney to an undisclosed contract.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
4:40PM San Jose Sharks re-sign forward Jeremy Roenick to an undisclosed contract.
4:40PM San Jose Sharks re-sign goaltender Brian Boucher to an undisclosed contract.
FRIDAY, JUNE 20
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
8:00PM Ottawa Senators re-sign forward Chris Kelly to a four-year, $8.5 million contract.
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
TIME (ET) TRANSACTION
3:00PM Nashville Predators re-sign goaltender Dan Ellis to a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

[bobbo8]

less than 12 hours... so pumped.

[xbrokendownx]

omg its about hockey lock it!!!!11

[larokr]

12 hours seems too far away.

[Vincewithouthee]

Yeah I'm psyched. Yet very nervous.

[zizou1790]

Yeah I'm psyched. Yet very nervous.

haha me too, the pens have about half a roster right now

[larokr]

haha me too, the pens have about half a roster right now

Me three.

[Vincewithouthee]

Yeah but I'm not too worried. Once the extensions of Malkin and Fleury are completed (which I hope is asap) that will attract even more FA's I'm sure.

[bigmike]

I just want brad stuart locked up in Detroit.

[Vincewithouthee]

If we don't land Hossa, my money is still on Detriot getting him. That'd be a scary thought.

[deadstar]

I really doubt Hossa will go to Detroit when they need to sign Zetterberg and Franzen next year.

As far as Boston goes, I personally think it would be dumb to go that far over the cap. Teams know your hands will be tied. You'd either have to buy more guys out or send a player + 3-4 round pick for a 7 round pick (what the Devils did a few years ago). We'll see what happens though.

[bigmike]

I doubt we'll offer Hossa a deal worth what he wants in FA. Hell, we might lose Brad Stuart because we don't want to over spend for him. I think Zetterberg will get locked up this coming season. Franzen probably will get a 3 year deal whenever they get around to talks kind of like what Datsyuk got right after the lockout ended and he signed a deal to stay in Russia.

I'm not too worried about how signing guys this year affects things down the road, though. The cap continually rises so someone making $8 million of a $45 million cap is different than $8 million of a $56 Million cap or whatever it went up to.

[Vincewithouthee]

I hope you two are right. It's gonna be really interesting to see where Hossa lands, cause right now every possible place he's rumored to go is a very unsure thing. We'll just have to wait and see very patiently.

[Dirty Ernie]

Would everyone agree Hossa is the prize free agent?

[Dirty Ernie]

I know Brian Campbell gets a ton of shit on here but I would love him. Too big of a gap between the top two of Timonen and Coburn and then the 2nd and 3rd pairs, especially as an offensive threat.

[larokr]

Would everyone agree Hossa is the prize free agent?

I agree about that. Him and Sundin.



And, well, you know. Don't forget about Conklin.

[xbrokendownx]

i give Campbell tons of shit but i would kill for him in NJ

[bigmike]

If the wingsfelt the need to make a big FA signing, i'd rather have Mats Sundin over Hossa everyday of the week. No contest.

[Broken Parachute]

Excellent.

[xbrokendownx]

im just so used to having high hopes on deadline day and july 1 and being let down, so im going into tomorrow with absolutely no expectations aside from keeping pandolfo and possibly salvador

[kbauer]

Im not sold on Sundin fitting into the style the Wings have going right now. I suppose any big vetern forward with hands is a premium but its not broke, dont fix it. Worry about resigning Stuart, give Fillpula and Zetterberg thier money and be done with it. The only singing Im open to is Brian Rolston because I mean, hes Brian fucking Rolston, enough said.

The Wings are loaded everywhere except goaltending and to an extent defense so anything else Im not hearing any of it.

[kbauer]

Oh yeah hey everyone Im back.

[kbauer]

Also Im hearing because of some crazy custody thing with Stuarts wife, who has a son from her first marriage, that if she moves out of California she losses custody of him. From hearing that Stuart is going to be a San Jose Shark in the next couple days. Not only because of personal reasons but because they have money, they have potential to be legit and hes a good compliment to their new puck movement system. So thats my guess on whats going to happen to him.

[kbauer]

I know Brian Campbell gets a ton of shit on here but I would love him. Too big of a gap between the top two of Timonen and Coburn and then the 2nd and 3rd pairs, especially as an offensive threat.


Im not too familiar with San Joses cap room but Im sure theyre in good shape and I think theyre going to lock campbell up.

[bigmike]

Im not sold on Sundin fitting into the style the Wings have going right now. I suppose any big vetern forward with hands is a premium but its not broke, dont fix it. Worry about resigning Stuart, give Fillpula and Zetterberg thier money and be done with it. The only singing Im open to is Brian Rolston because I mean, hes Brian fucking Rolston, enough said.

The Wings are loaded everywhere except goaltending and to an extent defense so anything else Im not hearing any of it.
what? how don't you think sundin would not fit in with the system? An offensively talented player who's thirsting to win a cup. Sounds like a ton of guys we've brought in in the past.

[tambo41187]

Tampa apparently is trying to shop Boyle....does not make a ton of sense to me.

[tambo41187]

If we don't land Hossa, my money is still on Detriot getting him. That'd be a scary thought.

A career loser? No thanks if I was a wings fan. Why do they need to add any big name anyways? Resign stuart and they will compete once again in or near the finals.

I'll be at work following the news all day. I doubt the Sabres do anything big, but i would love if they could ship Max out of town.

[we are cured]

im just so used to having high hopes on deadline day and july 1 and being let down, so im going into tomorrow with absolutely no expectations aside from keeping pandolfo and possibly salvador

i'd say you're setting yourself up for some big time disappointment. though my strategy is a little different, i'm expecting to lose avery, jagr, straka, shanahan. if any of them come back i guess it will be a good thing.

[StuGrimson]

Not much out there that intersts me as a Leafs fan. Maybe Radim Vrbata or Brenden Morrisson for a decent price. I would like Sean Avery, maybe Matt Cooke and possibly a cheap physical defenseman like Mark Smith. Also Curtis Joseph or Alex Auld.

Other than that Id like to see McCabe traded and Sundin make up his mind.

[StuGrimson]

Caps re-sign Mike Green for 4 years 21 million

[we are cured]

i like the length of the deal..it's a little much but that's the price you pay for keeping him off the market, i guess.

[osceola13]

Tampa apparently is trying to shop Boyle....does not make a ton of sense to me.
Doesn't make any sense to me either, they just revealed their big marketing promo for the next season and it's a "see vinny, see marty, see dan, see stamkos" promotion so I highly doubt they'd wanna get rid of him though I must admit I'd be happy if they did. He's also got a no trade clause that his agent said he's not likely to waive since he's happy here. As weak as our defense is I'd be happy if they got rid of Kuba or Lukowich, both were damn near worthless last year.

[StuGrimson]

You need a PP quarterback when you have all that firepower up front. I like Paul Ranger but he isnt exactly a number 1 offensive powerplay threat right now.

They didnt sign Rolston either so Im interested in seeing what happens to him today.

[deadstar]

Man that Mike Green contract is huge.

[StuGrimson]

Im surprised he would sign a contract that would make him an RFA still, guess he liked the money amount too much

[StuGrimson]

Salvador stays with NJD for 4 years, 2.9 per year

[sizablescarsxx]

Salvador stays with NJD for 4 years, 2.9 per year

i don't mind that at all. one down, two to go (well, i only care about one, but still).

[edit] you don't know if he got a no movement clause do you? because that was one of his top priorities (salvador that is).

[we are cured]

Man that Mike Green contract is huge.

18-38-56 with 22 power play points, i know its only one season but he's a hell of a talent. like i said i liked the length, 4 years 16 million probably would have been more accurate though.

[StuGrimson]

Im not sure I havent heard anything about one yet but those generally arent announced right away anyway.

Rumour has it that the Leafs have a 4 year 16 million dollar offer on the table for Avery

[we are cured]

let him take it, you can have those fragile wrists and huge ego for 4 million/year

[StuGrimson]

Well I do want Avery I feel he will just turn into another McCabe or Tucker. A guy who uses Toronto for its convenience rather than actually wanting to play for a winning team or compete.

[larokr]

Rumor has it that Hossa probably won't land in Boston.

Marian Hossa a Boston Bruin? NHL free agency begins Tuesday, at high noon, and as every dreamer knows, anything's possible. But Hossa landing in the Hub was a stretch to begin with, and now that Tampa Bay has signed up Ryan Malone for seven years and $31.5 million, the bidding at the opening bell for Hossa, an elite scoring right winger, quickly should shoot up to $8 million a year, possibly in the range of six to eight years.

The Bruins, who Monday agreed to terms on a new deal for forward Petteri Nokelainen (two years, average $850,000), won't shop in Hossa's 'hood. Their cap already stands right around $50 million, leaving them with slightly less than $7 million in potential shopping dollars. A tight budget and a squeezed market for top free agent talent most likely will have the Bruins cautious from the start.

General manager Peter Chiarelli, reached by phone late yesterday afternoon, sounded as if he is prepared to ignore the early wave of emotional bidding, then look to move in for a value purchase (the $2 million to $4 million-a-year range) once the market begins to cool.

"A lot of guys feel there are going to be more trades made after [today]," said Chiarelli, noting his talks in recent days with other team managers. "I think a lot of them want to wait, see how high the overpayments go."

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/rumors/post/Bruins-don-t-expect-to-be-huge-players-in-free-a?urn=nhl,91242

[dont you move]

gulliti is reporting brylin and pandolfo signed too

[zizou1790]

i just read bruins are gonna make hossa a mega offer

http://sportsnet.ca/thewire/hockey/2008/07/01/bruins_expected_to_make/

[we are cured]

Well I do want Avery I feel he will just turn into another McCabe or Tucker. A guy who uses Toronto for its convenience rather than actually wanting to play for a winning team or compete.

personally i think he needs whatever scene the city he's playing in has around him. LA or NY is really the only place that can keep him distracted enough to a point where he won't be a huge cancer. but i don't know...i do know i don't want him for more than 3.5.

[larokr]

i just read bruins are gonna make hossa a mega offer

http://sportsnet.ca/thewire/hockey/2008/07/01/bruins_expected_to_make/

Hmm, interesting. I guess we'll see today, maybe.

[LeftWideOpen]

12 years????

jesus. i call bullshit, but we'll see.

[zizou1790]

haha yeah the deal would be absurd

[StuGrimson]

Why would you pay Hossa until he is like 41, he seems like the prime candidate for someone who hits a severe decline at the age of 34-35

[StuGrimson]

personally i think he needs whatever scene the city he's playing in has around him. LA or NY is really the only place that can keep him distracted enough to a point where he won't be a huge cancer. but i don't know...i do know i don't want him for more than 3.5.

Ya that makes sense and pretty much what I assumed of him. Though Toronto has a good night life, and is essentially his home town it doesnt have that celebrity lifestyle that Avery seems to need so badly. Unless he wants to hang out with Alan Thicke and Eugene Levy.

[StuGrimson]

Raffi Torres traded to Columbus for Gilbert Brule. Brule is the big bust from recent drafts so maybe he can turn it around in Edmonton. I like Torres too and adds some decent depth to the Jackets.

[dont you move]

devils sign pandolfo, clarkson, zharkov, halischuk.

passed on the team option for brylin.

[sizablescarsxx]

devils sign pandolfo, clarkson, zharkov, halischuk.

passed on the team option for brylin.

i am VERY happy with that. wait, what about pelley? still negotiating with him i guess?

[edit] and apparently tallackson was resigned as well. and salvador does not have a no movement clause. i'm pretty happy with all of this so far.

[StuGrimson]

Pens sign Dupuis for 3 years, no numbers yet

[zizou1790]

Pens sign Dupuis for 3 years, no numbers yet

good news

[we are cured]

great, 3 more years of seeing the piss-ant on a regular basis

[StuGrimson]

First signing of the day

Curtis Joseph signs with the Leafs for 1 year 700K. Awesome deal.

[deadstar]

Nice to see Dupuis back. I expected taht though.

[StuGrimson]

Detroit signs Brad Stuart for 4 years and 15 million

[odelay]

Sources tell TSN the Detroit Red Wings and veteran defenceman Brad Stuart have agreed to terms on a 4 year contract that averages $3.75 million per year. Details to follow.

[we are cured]

dammit

[xbrokendownx]

my wish list came true (kind of). 2.9 per for salvador is a bit much but oh well

[StuGrimson]

Joni Pitkanen traded for Erik Cole

Corey Perry re-signs for 5 years 26.625 million

[kbauer]

what? how don't you think sundin would not fit in with the system? An offensively talented player who's thirsting to win a cup. Sounds like a ton of guys we've brought in in the past.


key part of my post was "if its not broke dont fix it." sundin is so good he could fit in anywhere. i feel like the wings dont need to improve and theres going to be a lot of lateral movement with teams in the west. with the wings resigning stuart i think we'll still be the best in the west nomatter what any other team does. so im aprehensive to make any big signing. like i said i guess i would be fine with rolston on the second line or bolstering that second pp unit.

anyone heard anything about fillpula and ericsson? im sure theyre staying because theyre restricted but im still a little nervous.

[zizou1790]

vrbata signs with lightning

[StuGrimson]

Gret signing for Tampa, only 3 million a year too

[zizou1790]

tampas gonna have some serious firepower next year

[StuGrimson]

They still badly need a shutdown defensemen. I really like Shane O'Brien in that role but he cant do it alone.

[btbam > you]

Wow, great signing for Tampa with Vrby.

[bigmike]

18-38-56 with 22 power play points, i know its only one season but he's a hell of a talent. like i said i liked the length, 4 years 16 million probably would have been more accurate though.
I think Green finished like top 5 in d-men in my rankings but i'm not 100% positive on that and this isn't my main comp so I have no idea if he did or not.
key part of my post was "if its not broke dont fix it." sundin is so good he could fit in anywhere. i feel like the wings dont need to improve and theres going to be a lot of lateral movement with teams in the west. with the wings resigning stuart i think we'll still be the best in the west nomatter what any other team does. so im aprehensive to make any big signing. like i said i guess i would be fine with rolston on the second line or bolstering that second pp unit.

anyone heard anything about fillpula and ericsson? im sure theyre staying because theyre restricted but im still a little nervous.
There is always room to improve. You never sit back and say "well it worked last year . . ." It's not like we'd be adding a locker room cancer and he'd fit in with all the swedes he played with when they won the gold medal. I feel like the wings ALWAYS need to improve.

Holland said a few weeks ago that Val turned down a long term deal during the season but said that he doesn't want to leave and Holland said that any offer made to filppula will get met by the wings since we have the cap space.

I'm still boggled by the "we don't need to improve" thing. We had a ton of things go right for us (like the playoffs breaking down in a perfect manner for the wings) and stayed relatively healthy. Anytime you can add what is still very above average offensive skills and (stu could attest to this more than me) from what i know a guy who is not a liability defensively -- and is another centerman -- it's always a good thing.

[StuGrimson]

I know this was mentioned a few weeks back but the Blake Wheeler to Boston signing was just made official

[deadstar]

Haha yea. I cant believe anyone would say the team doesnt need to improve.

Goog signing for Tampa Bay with Vrbata. Would Tampa really trade Boyle after going through all of that trouble in signing him?

Dupuis' deal is believed to be in the 1.2-1.5 million per range.

[bigmike]

More on the Brad Stuart deal: He gets a limited no-trade clause in the final 2 years of that deal.

This gives the wings 17 players locked up for next year at $44 million roughly. They will stay $2 mil below the cap to allow for a mid-season trade so they have about $10-11 million left to spend with the following guys needing to be resigned:

Forward Valtteri Filppula, defensemen Chris Chelios, Kyle Quincey and Jonathan Ericsson and goaltender Jimmy Howard.

wings beat writer says they still want to offer a deal to McCarty and Downey (why both? give me Downey over Mac please), a veteran 3rd goalie. And a few of these guys will be signing 2-way contracts as well. Beat writer says we are right in line with what we thought we'd be spending if we resigned stuart (though the wings were trying for around $3 mil/year which is what our num. 3 d-man Kronwall makes annually) and that we still have enough room to sign a Mats Sundin or Brian Rolston.

[pand75]

Oilers!!!!!

I'm so happy with K-Lowe right now, Torres gone for someone who will fit right into the Oilers system. Erik Cole for an underacheiver. And they're making a 9 million dollar pitch for Hossa. Sorry if I'm babbling but I'm so ecstatic right now!

[we are cured]

i can't understand your love for erik cole

[bigmike]

Probably just excited to see first hand how he goes about breaking his neck again this year.

[pand75]

i can't understand your love for erik cole
Well being from Montreal, and watching him completely own them every single time they play each other, is one of the reasons. Plus he's going to the West now, change of scenery. I'm just excited to see all these new faces as well

[StuGrimson]

At least he will get to skate on good ice, so he shouldnt suffer too many more skating related mishaps. He will still injure himself every time contact is made with him.

[larokr]

Pens sign Dupuis for 3 years, no numbers yet

Haha yea. I cant believe anyone would say the team doesnt need to improve.

Goog signing for Tampa Bay with Vrbata. Would Tampa really trade Boyle after going through all of that trouble in signing him?

Dupuis' deal is believed to be in the 1.2-1.5 million per range.


I just got home from the eye doctor and my friend texted me updates. I'm super happy Dupuis is back. I was expecting him to get around that much.

[pand75]

At least he will get to skate on good ice, so he shouldnt suffer too many more skating related mishaps. He will still injure himself every time contact is made with him.
hahaha. Man you guys really don't like Erik Cole.

[xbrokendownx]

ugh come on lets get a big name to drop already!

[xbrokendownx]

and i like erik cole plenty, especially because hes american. but dude is never healthy so its hard to get excited about him

[StuGrimson]

I think the Oilers got Cole as a salary dump. He will be on the long term injury reserve within a week so his salary is a write off.

[deadstar]

Well the Pens deadline for Hossa must be up soon.

[larokr]

Dupuis' contract will average $1.4 million a year.

[pand75]

I seriously see Hossa in Boston. Hossa and Savard reunited would be great.

[StuGrimson]

I think i may pass out by 6 so something big better happen this afternoon

[xbrokendownx]

this carrie milbank chick hosting the nhl network show could getttt it.

[pand75]

Yeah NHL Network just said theres a Zidlicky to Minnesota deal almost done.

[pand75]

where's LastPlace LOL

[pand75]

Yeah its official

Nashville trades defenceman Marek Zidlicky to Minnesota for prospect Ryan Jones from Miami of Ohio and a second round pick. Details to follow.

[StuGrimson]

I like Minnys defense a lot, and the way things are looking they will need that defense desperately next season

[bigmike]

Ryan Jones is a 3rd liner, at best, in the nhl. I don't even think he'll fulfill that. So, to me, it's Zidlicky for a 2nd round pick.

[StuGrimson]

Vancouver signs Kyle Shitwood. Terms dont matter because he is a useless fat piece of trash.

[pand75]

I really like Zidlicky, sucks to see him leave Nashville which I think is in better shape than Minnesota right now.

[LastPlaceRocks]

According to an email, Wild just brought back Bruno.

[LastPlaceRocks]

And I guess we traded for Zidlicky - have to think about how I feel about that.

I really like Zidlicky, sucks to see him leave Nashville which I think is in better shape than Minnesota right now.
I'm going to disagree.

[pand75]

Yeah Brunette back in Minnesota.

[pand75]

And I'd be worried in Minnesota with Gaborik next year.

[sizablescarsxx]

Dupuis' contract will average $1.4 million a year.

i like that. good for the pens.

[LastPlaceRocks]

Zidlicky - I agree with Big Mike's assessment about Ryan Jones (Hobey Baker finalist doesn't translate to NHL stardom), plus he's expendable. Zidlicky's a player that we need on D, which will now be in the upper echelon and lets Reitz be the sixth D. The only downside of the trade is that this takes away from an already bare cupboard in Houston and puts more pressure on the prospects that we just drafted. On the other hand, I'm glad to see Bruno back and it's good news for Gaborik as he can set him up and they are good friends.

If anyone can answer in the next 10 minutes, what's Zidlicky's cap hit? I'm on my phone.

[StuGrimson]

3.35

[LastPlaceRocks]

Thanks Stu. That works for me money-wise.

[pand75]

Denis Gauthier on the Kings

[StuGrimson]

Is this Brunette deal official yet, I just missed them talking about something to due with Minny and it wasnt about Zidlicky

[pand75]

Sportsnet says it is, but I haven't seen it anywhere else.

[LastPlaceRocks]

I don't know, I can't check Russo at the moment - that'd be my best guess to confirm. I was told it was.

Alright, back to work and hating the company I'm supposed to work with. Hopefully the Wild sign someone else who can score because it's looking like a lot of 1-0, 2-1 games this year.

[deadstar]

Pens re-sign Mark Eaton. I like it.

[sizablescarsxx]

i don't think anyone posted the terms of pandolfo's deal, but it's 3 years, $7.5-million. lou gave him a nice raise.

[zizou1790]

Pens re-sign Mark Eaton. I like it.

me too, he was very good before blowing out his knee

[StuGrimson]

Fan 590 just announced the Burnette deal but no terms announced

[xbrokendownx]

yea its on tsn so

[pand75]

Yeah I also heard it on a French Sports Talk Show out here.

[bigmike]

I like the Zidlicky deal for the Wild. I'm a fan of his and I think they really didn't give away much to get him.

[deadstar]

Pens made an offer to Jagr. It'd take a lot of convincing from Lemieux for him to sign there.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

[larokr]

Pens re-sign Mark Eaton. I like it.

Nice. I'm happy so far. Great deal signing him for 2 years for $2 million total. Hopefully he won't get injured again.

Pens made an offer to Jagr. It'd take a lot of convincing from Lemieux for him to sign there.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

Fuck. No no no no. I really don't want him back.

[xbrokendownx]

Pandolfo's deal is 3 years for $2.5 mill per and Clarksons deal is 2 years for $837,500

[Vincewithouthee]

Pens made an offer to Jagr. It'd take a lot of convincing from Lemieux for him to sign there.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/penguins_jagr/

Unsure about that. I had a feeling that would happen. I don't think he'll take it though, but who knows. Maybe that was what he was looking for.

[StuGrimson]

Supposedly there is a 2 year 20 million offer on the table for Sundin from Vancouver

[xbrokendownx]

holy crap

[Vincewithouthee]

Yeah that's nuts. I heard the 10 mil per season and I was like wtf? Then heard it's only 2 years but still. Overpay.

[zizou1790]

i would love jagr back

[larokr]

Supposedly there is a 2 year 20 million offer on the table for Sundin from Vancouver

WOAH.

[bigmike]

Oof. I would like Sundin in Detroit but (1) not at that price and (2) that would definitely not get paid by Ken Holland.

[pand75]

so dumb.

[sizablescarsxx]

Supposedly there is a 2 year 20 million offer on the table for Sundin from Vancouver

wtf. why? if sundin gets 10 million a year, then hossa certainly won't take less than the cap maximum (for players).

[StuGrimson]

Sundin signing a short term contract would have no effect on any other player including Hossa

[Vincewithouthee]

Well Pens made offers to Naslund and Rolston as well. It's basically a guarantee Hossa's not coming back. Where he goes....we'll see.

[sizablescarsxx]

Sundin signing a short term contract would have no effect on any other player including Hossa

oh, okay. nevermind then.

[deadstar]

Laura, do you visit that Pens Blog site? Its hilarious.

[larokr]

Yahoo posted a rumor about Malkin on the verge of a 5 year/$40 million extension. Supposed to be announced either late today or tomorrow.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/rumors/post/Pens-Malkin-on-verge-of-5-year-40-million-dea?urn=nhl,91301

5 years for 40 million? 8 million a year? Awesome. I was expecting 8.5 million a year.

[larokr]

Laura, do you visit that Pens Blog site? Its hilarious.

Yep, I go to it every morning. I love it. The kid getting eliminated quickly from Millionaire, them posting the video, then getting an email saying he's a Pens fan and reads the Pensblog. Hahahaha.

I discovered the Fiesta Mexicana song from their site.

[StuGrimson]

Thats just my thought because Hossa and the rest of free agents are in very different situations than Sundin is. If Hossa wanted a 2 year deal he could easily get 10 million a season. If he wants a 6-7 year deal he will have to take between 7-8-9 in that area. I

[StuGrimson]

Olie Kolzig has signed in Tampa

[larokr]

Olie Kolzig has signed in Tampa

Wow. They're doing well.
It's going to be hard to see him not in a Caps jersey anymore.

[pand75]

Kurt Sauer 4 year deal in Phoenix

[pand75]

Theodore on the Caps!!


Huge!

[xbrokendownx]

jose theodore to Washington

[larokr]

Theodore on the Caps!!


Huge!

Holy crap!

[sizablescarsxx]

http://www.nypost.com/seven/07012008/sports/rangers/shanahan_may_sign_with_devs_118032. htm

lol. i know not to believe eklund, but i just find this one hilarious.

[deadstar]

Any details on Theodore's deal? Is he an upgrade on Huet?

[pand75]

Any details on Theodore's deal? Is he an upgrade on Huet?
2 year contract for now. No money details given out yet.

[larokr]

Any details on Theodore's deal? Is he an upgrade on Huet?

All I know is that it's a 2 year deal - exact details weren't included.

[xbrokendownx]

larry brooks may be worse than eklund, if thats possible

no way we sign shanahan

[sizablescarsxx]

larry brooks may be worse than eklund, if thats possible

no way we sign shanahan

oh i know. i just thought it was hysterical.

[larokr]

Colorado signs Raycroft for a 1 year deal.

[pand75]

colorado signs Raycroft. why would anyone do that.

[StuGrimson]

I like Raycroft as a person so Im happy for him, I feel bad for Colorado because he is a bad goalie

[sizablescarsxx]

detroit got conklin~!

[larokr]

It's a $750,000 1 year deal. Wow.

[pand75]

Montreal Canadiens agree to terms with restricted free agent Andrei Kostitsyn. Sources say it's a three year deal worth $3.25 million per year. Also, Detroit signs goalie Ty Conklin to a one year deal at $750,000. Details to follow.

[sizablescarsxx]

and phoenix got fedoruk for 3 years. and montreal resigned kostitsyn to a 3 year, $3.25-million a season

[deadstar]

Detroit got Conkblock. Fuck. Now it will be a repeat.

[fallout1819]

Well Pens made offers to Naslund and Rolston as well. It's basically a guarantee Hossa's not coming back. Where he goes....we'll see.

Where'd you hear that?

[larokr]

Raycroft's 1 year deal is for $800,000

[pand75]

What!! Theo's 2 year deal is worth 9 million dollars!?

[sizablescarsxx]

What!! Theo's 2 year deal is worth 9 million dollars!?

are you serious??

[pand75]

are you serious??
Yeah.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/capitals_theodore/

[Vincewithouthee]

Detroit got Conkblock. Fuck. Now it will be a repeat.

Hahahaha I was gonna say the same thing.

[sizablescarsxx]

dammmn.

[zizou1790]

Where'd you hear that?

http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

[Vincewithouthee]

http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

Shit is Jesus.

[xbrokendownx]

FUCK NO TO DARCY TUCKER


x

[larokr]

http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

That site's saying Tucker supposedly to Jersey? Wow.

[Vincewithouthee]

Fuck Tampa Bay man. They signed Hall.

[fallout1819]

http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

Awesome. I want them so bad. 2 for the amount of Hossa's salary.

[larokr]

That site better be wrong about Hall.

[larokr]

Fuck Tampa Bay man. They signed Hall.

Wait, is it official now?

[sizablescarsxx]

FUCK NO TO DARCY TUCKER


x

amen to that.
i hope that is wrong.

and if tampa really does get hall, then wow. that would be the third penguin they've signed this offseason i believe.

[pand75]

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenceman Jeff Finger to a four-year deal worth $3.5 million a season, and goaltender Curtis Joseph to a one-year, $700,000 contract. Details to follow.

[deadstar]

amen to that.
i hope that is wrong.

and if tampa really does get hall, then wow. that would be the third penguin they've signed this offseason i believe.
Added to Michelle Ouellet who signed there last year. People claiming The Penguins will be Tampa North with having to sign their young stars. Can we now refer to Tampa as Pittsburgh South instead?

[deadstar]

And holy overpayment for Finger.

[larokr]

Added to Michelle Ouellet who signed there last year. People claiming The Penguins will be Tampa North with having to sign their young stars. Can we now refer to Tampa as Pittsburgh South instead?

Mmm the Pensblog.

[Vincewithouthee]

Wait, is it official now?

Don't think but that site is legit trust me. So don't be surprised if it does happen. I'm pissed about that if its true.

[deadstar]

quite possibly

[pand75]

absolutely ridiculous for Finger.

[sizablescarsxx]

Don't think but that site is legit trust me. So don't be surprised if it does happen. I'm pissed about that if its true.

if the devils sign tucker i'm going to be pissed. the only way that lou would be forgiven, in my eyes at least for that, is if he pulls a miracle and signs rolston. otherwise, another summer of heartbreak for me.

[larokr]

Don't think but that site is legit trust me. So don't be surprised if it does happen. I'm pissed about that if its true.

I'll be pissed, as well.

[xbrokendownx]

lolol @ the finger deal...makes the salvador deal look even better!

[sizablescarsxx]

it's official:

Tampa Bay signs UFA forward Adam Hall to a 3 year deal worth $1.8-million

[Vincewithouthee]

it's official:

Tampa Bay signs UFA forward Adam Hall to a 3 year deal worth $1.8-million

Fuuuuuuuck me.

[pand75]

CBJ Morrison for 3 years 8 million

[sizablescarsxx]

Fuuuuuuuck me.

according to the pensblog:

Pittsburgh South sign Adam Hall, 3 years at $1.8 million

[Vincewithouthee]

Detroit looking at Rolston now. Yikes.

[larokr]

Fuuuuuuuck me.

I was just going to write the same thing.
I'm mad.
Come on Shero - I believe in you. What do you have up your sleeve...

[sizablescarsxx]

Chicago signs UFA goaltender Cristobal Huet (undisclosed).

[edit] and Florida signs UFA forward Cory Stillman to a 3 year deal worth $10.6-million.

[pand75]

Cory Stillman agrees to terms with Florida on a three year deal for $10.6 million. Cristobal Huet has signed with Chicago. Details to follow.

[xbrokendownx]

erik godard to pitt!

[larokr]

Pens signed Eric Godard. Anyone know anything about him?

[ESundy36]

Pens signed Eric Godard. Anyone know anything about him?


I saw him play in Bridegport when he was in the Isles system. He was initially a fighter who turned into somewhat of a power forward who still dropped the gloves. I don't know what he's like now though, it's been 3 or 4 years.

[Killadelphia]

Can anyone give me a nice summary? I've been out all day. Nice to see this trade happen:

The Flyers were involved in another trade on Tuesday, acquiring defenseman Patrik Hersley and left wing Ned Lukacevic from the Los Angeles Kings. In exchange, the Flyers sent defenseman Denis Gauthier and their second round pick in the 2010 draft to the Kings

Hersley, 22, was drafted by Los Angeles in the fifth round of the 2005 draft.

Hersley (6’3, 205) split the 2007-08 season between the Kings’ AHL affiliate, the Manchester Monarchs, and their ECHL club, the Reading Royals. He recorded one goal and eight assists in 42 regular season games for Manchester, while posting three goals and 15 assists in 20 regular season games with Reading. He also notched nine points in 13 playoff games for Reading.

Lukacevic (6'0, 185) was a fourth round selection of the Kings in the 2004 draft. He recorded 17 goals and 19 assists in 61 games for Reading last season. He also added two assists in eight playoff games.

Prior to joining the Kings organization, the 22-year old Lukacevic played parts of five seasons in the Western Hockey League with the Spokane Chiefs (2001-02 through 2004-05) and the Swift Current Broncos (2005-06), posting 63 goals and 74 assists in 238 games.

Gauthier played in 78 regular season games for the Phantoms last season. In 60 career games with the Flyers he recorded four assists and 82 penalty minutes.

[ESundy36]

I am tired of this Sundin to Montreal crap. I do not want to see him in Montreal regardless of his talent. He always contemplates retirement and is one probably two seasons from officially hanging it up. I would much rather see Gainey go after Hossa who is younger and could be signed to a long term deal, I know that he only has so much cap space to work with but I'd rather see a young player who will be around for more than a hot minute in Montreal.

[deadstar]

well it looks like Laraques days in Pitt are over then.

That Hall deal seems low. I cant believe we didnt offer anything like that. Maybe we just didnt want to give the 3rd year.

[Vincewithouthee]

Eric Godard coming basically means Laraque is gone I think. I'll take him though.

[LastPlaceRocks]

Got this texted to me - Voros is going to the Rangers. Good pickup for them.

Also the Coyotes overpaid for Fedoruk and Bruno's deal is 3 years 7 mil, which coincidentally was what they paid Rolston to replace him.

[larokr]

well it looks like Laraques days in Pitt are over then.

That Hall deal seems low. I cant believe we didnt offer anything like that. Maybe we just didnt want to give the 3rd year.

Yeah, I don't understand as well. Oh well.

Eric Godard coming basically means Laraque is gone I think. I'll take him though.

After seeing Godard's stats, that's immediately what I thought.

[bigmike]

Detroit got Conkblock. Fuck. Now it will be a repeat.
Yup. Might as well just skip to next July since the 08-09 season is already the wings since we've got god in the organization now.

All kidding aside, it's a nice insurance policy. Jimmy Howard can get sent back to the AHL without having to pass through waivers so if he struggles in camp or something of that ilk, he can go back to Grand Rapids and Conklin can back up Osgood. I know Conk had the hot streak of his life but even if he plays half as well as he did in that streak, plus the wings defense/system, he can succeed here.
What!! Theo's 2 year deal is worth 9 million dollars!?
OOOOOOF. $4.5 per?
it's official:

Tampa Bay signs UFA forward Adam Hall to a 3 year deal worth $1.8-million
Good for him. One of my favorite players since his days at Michigan State.
Detroit looking at Rolston now. Yikes.
Yeah. Rolston and Sundin are apparently atop the wings list. I'd be happy with either of them.

[pand75]

I had Voros in my pool for a bit last year, tons of PIM's and scored for a while too. Hes a great player

[pand75]

Darcy Tucker has agreed to a two year deal with the Colorado Avalanche worth $4.5 million.

[larokr]

I love the Pensblog

Eric Godard is a Pen. Goon City. BGL will probably go to Tampa.

Hahaha.

[deadstar]

Haha Laraque will probably end up in Tampa.

[bigmike]

a different beat writer for the wings says that Rolston is hoping for an offer from the wings since he's from Flint, MI. He said reports are that he's narrowed things down to the Rangers and the Red Wings as his two favorite options (don't know if that means they've both offered deals or had talks but i'd assume that both teams -- wings especially -- have inquired with his agent).

It's interesting that general manager Ken Holland specified that he's looking for a forward to sign "short-term." I'm wondering if that means that someone like Brian Rolston isn't coming to Detroit then because he'd be someone who signs for multiple years.

Rolston, a 35-year-old Flint native, was with the Minnesota Wild the past three seasons, scoring more than 30 goals each season. Rolston's rights were traded by Minnesota to Tampa Bay this week, but when the Lightning couldn't sign him, Rolston became an unrestricted free agent at noon.

Reports are that Rolston had narrowed his choices to Detroit and the Rangers, but it's likely he's looking for and will get a multiple-year deal.

Link (http://redwingscorner.blogspot.com/2008/07/on-signing-forward.html).

I think it's more likely that we get Sundin than Rolston as we could potentially get Sundin on a one-year deal.

[xbrokendownx]

thank the lord

[we are cured]

some ridiculous contracts out there. the rangers have apparently signed aaron voros.

[bigmike]

Sorry, but i'm catching up on all my Red Wings info (and this computer is fucking brutal to be on) but this was posted a couple of hours ago:

Link (http://blog.mlive.com/snapshots/2008/07/st_james_sundin_bertuzzi_on_ho.html ).

After getting the Brad Stuart contract finalized around 11:30 this morning, Red Wings general manager Ken Holland soon after got on the phone to agents for several unrestricted free agent forwards.

Holland told me has spoken to representatives for both Todd Bertuzzi and Mats Sundin. Sundin is one of the most coveted free agents on the market, though, so unless he badly wants to come to Detroit, he's probably going to go out of price range.


Regarding Bertuzzi, whom the Wings traded for in February of 2007 and tried to re-sign last summer, Holland said he would "stay in touch" with Bertuzzi's agent. "I was happy with the job he did here," Holland said of Bertuzzi. "We're exploring."


Strike Flint native Brian Rolston off the list of potential Wings - he's getting offers starting at $4 million and going north, and for far more term, too, than the Wings are willing to consider.

That was from Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press.

[larokr]

Haha Laraque will probably end up in Tampa.

Hmm, maybe Tampa's looking at Orpik, too? They've been signing all forwards, they're due to be looking at a defenseman.

[deadstar]

some ridiculous contracts out there. the rangers have apparently signed aaron voros.
Good question. Which do you think is the worst contract given so far?

[deadstar]

Hmm, maybe Tampa's looking at Orpik, too? They've been signing all forwards, they're due to be looking at a defenseman.
Well with the details of the Finger contract out, Orpik could demand 4.5 million now and probably get it.

[Vincewithouthee]

Yeah honestly i wouldn't be surprised if Tampa did pull some bullshit like that at this point.

lolz @ this http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/38878

[larokr]

Kolzig's 1 year deal is for 1.5 million, plus bonuses.

[larokr]

Well with the details of the Finger contract out, Orpik could demand 4.5 million now and probably get it.

Hahaha definitely.

Yeah honestly i wouldn't be surprised if Tampa did pull some bullshit like that at this point.

lolz @ this http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/38878

Oh man, I remember that fight. I loved how Laraque got him down so quick.

[bigmike]

Heading into training camp, the No. 2 goalie position for the Red Wings is open. But according to general manager Ken Holland, veteran Ty Conklin has an edge over Jimmy Howard.

"When we go to camp, the No. 2 job is up for grabs," said Holland. "But for Jimmy Howard to be the No. 2 guy, he's going to have to win the job."

Howard can go to Grand Rapids without passing through waivers. Howard has eight games of NHL experience. Conklin has 110 regular-season games of experience.
Per a Wings beat writer's blog.

[deadstar]

Yea. Conklin signing with Detroit was a very good move for both sides.

[bigmike]

I like putting the pressure on Howard to 'win' the backup job in training camp.

[we are cured]

Good question. Which do you think is the worst contract given so far?

i dont know about the worst, but the best has to be vrbata. the fact that jeff finger will make more than him for the next 3 years is beyond ludicrous. vrbata's agent must either hate money or is completely retarded.

[pand75]

The Ottawa Senators have a backup for Martin Gerber, signing goaltender Alex Auld to a two-year deal worth $1 million per season. Details to follow.

[pand75]

The Buffalo Sabres have signed goaltender Patrick Lalime to a two-year deal, Sportsnet has learned.

[bigmike]

Canucks put a $7.5 million offer sheet out to David Backes.

The Vancouver Canucks have signed RFA David Backes to an offer sheet for three years at $2.5 million per year. Compensation is a second round pick. St. Louis must match within seven days or he goes to Vancouver.

Update 1:15pm PT: A press release from the St. Louis Blues provides more details.

“We will review the offer and base our decision on what is best for our organization,” said Davidson.
Backes’ offer includes a $1 million signing bonus along with $1.5 million in 2008-09, $2.5 million in 2009-10 and $2.5 million 2010-11.


Link (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/CandB/comments/canucks_put_offer_sheet_on_david_ba ckes_25_million/).

On the Huet deal with the Blackhawks:

just heard from a source that Huet asked the Caps for three years, $15 million and the Caps offered it to him. But Huet told them he wanted test the market today and see what might be out there. Now it’s looking like he’ll sign a four year deal with Chicago for $5.6 million per.

Link (http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/huet_signs_with_chicago/).

Brian Campbell insanity:

From Michael Russo at Russo’s Rants in the Star-Tribune, a rather vague report (http://ww3.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/2008/07/01/free-agent-frenzy/):

A player just told me Atlanta offered Brian Campbell a contract worth $60 million. Not sure of years, but I think seven.
Make of that what you will.
Update 2:10pm ET: Bruce Garrioch (http://blog.canoe.ca/offtheposts/2008/07/01/campbell_to_chicago) throws the Blackhawks into the mix:

Campbell to Chicago?
That’s the talk. The hawks are being aggressive and are moving towards a deal.

[LastPlaceRocks]

Wow, GMs are spending money like drunken sailors today. I had a conversation earlier with someone over the 4.5 per year that the Caps gave Theodore and this is making me a lot happier about the Zidlicky deal.

[LastPlaceRocks]

According to Russo (I'm looking at it now - finally on a computer) it's between the Blackhawks and Thrashers.

[dont you move]

I'll be home around 6.30 to update the first post in the thread. way too busy at work.

[LastPlaceRocks]

Wait, the Coyotes gave Fedoruk a three year deal? That beats the 10 million per year Vancouver offered Sundin for the dumbest thing I've seen today.

[bigmike]

is there anything better than team message boards on aday like today? on the red wings message board there's a thread started that people on a penguins message board say Hossa has 4 legit offers and that he prefers the wings offer even though it's the least amount of money. Another thread on this wings message board said this poster talked to someone by chance that works for the wings and that hossa told "a wings player" in the handshake after game 6 that he'd love to come play with him in Detroit.

hahaha.

[larokr]

is there anything better than team message boards on aday like today? on the red wings message board there's a thread started that people on a penguins message board say Hossa has 4 legit offers and that he prefers the wings offer even though it's the least amount of money. Another thread on this wings message board said this poster talked to someone by chance that works for the wings and that hossa told "a wings player" in the handshake after game 6 that he'd love to come play with him in Detroit.

hahaha.

Hahahaha wow.

[deadstar]

Thats gold Jerry. GOLD!

[LastPlaceRocks]

is there anything better than team message boards on aday like today? on the red wings message board there's a thread started that people on a penguins message board say Hossa has 4 legit offers and that he prefers the wings offer even though it's the least amount of money. Another thread on this wings message board said this poster talked to someone by chance that works for the wings and that hossa told "a wings player" in the handshake after game 6 that he'd love to come play with him in Detroit.

hahaha.

I heard God himself wants to play for the Wings.

[deadstar]

Most Pens rumors come from this site.
http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

Some say its accurate. It is however the same site that said on day 1 of free agency last year that "unless Kariya wakes up and has a change of heart, he will be a Penguin" only to have Kariya sign with the Blues like an hour later.

[sizablescarsxx]

Darcy Tucker has agreed to a two year deal with the Colorado Avalanche worth $4.5 million.

oh thank goodness.

[emkvetwin]

I heard God himself wants to play for the Wings.

how much are they offering?

oh wait, never mind. even if it's the least, God will accept.

[deadstar]

I heard God himself wants to play for the Wings.
You're right. Ty Conklin DID sign there.

[LastPlaceRocks]

how much are they offering?

oh wait, never mind. even if it's the least, God will accept.
Of course - it's the Wings after all.

[emkvetwin]

not much action here. we traded for denis gauthier; especially interesting because he provoked sean avery's comment about french guys and visors.

here we go, Free Agent Frenzy!

[sizablescarsxx]

You're right. Ty Conklin DID sign there.

hahahahaha.

[larokr]

Most Pens rumors come from this site.
http://www.theinsideronpittsburghsports.co m/

Some say its accurate. It is however the same site that said on day 1 of free agency last year that "unless Kariya wakes up and has a change of heart, he will be a Penguin" only to have Kariya sign with the Blues like an hour later.

Yeah, they're saying Hossa is making a decision soon. They were right about Tucker making a decision soon.

And then Eklund gives an e4 to Hossa to Edmonton. But that's stupid Eklund.

I just want to hear his decision already. I'm too impatient.

[sizablescarsxx]

apparently the penguins inquired about avery.

now i'm hoping that isn't true. because if so, next year will be very difficult for me at school.

[LastPlaceRocks]

You're right. Ty Conklin DID sign there.
Nice!
EDIT: Weirdly enough I just came across that signing when I read that post.

[bigmike]

Here's the links to the threads:

The one on Hossa apparently preferring the wings (http://www.letsgowings.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=52083) offer even though it's the least amount of money. Of course there's no links in this one.

The one on what he said to a wings player (http://www.letsgowings.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=51804). Also touches on Bowman not taking the leafs job because he's too old and doesn't have time/energy to rebuild it.

[sizablescarsxx]

i just read this on the pensblog. haha.

"Tampa has a 1-year, $32 million deal on the table for Mario Lemieux."

[larokr]

apparently the penguins inquired about avery.

now i'm hoping that isn't true. because if so, next year will be very difficult for me at school.

NO. It won't happen. I hope not.

The Tampa Bay Lightning are shopping goaltender Mike Smith around after signing Olaf Kolzig to a one-year deal, Sportsnet has learned.
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/07/01/lightning_smith/

[deadstar]

Haha. Classic BigMike. If I had a dime every time someone on a Pens message board suggested signing someone because "they'll take less to pay with Malkin and Crosby", I'd be a very wealthy man.

[LastPlaceRocks]

I'm not a Mike Smith fan, but that's a bad move for the Bolts if they end up trading him.

[sizablescarsxx]

I'm not a Mike Smith fan, but that's a bad move for the Bolts if they end up trading him.

agreed.

[xbrokendownx]

Right wing Marian Hossa and defenseman Brian Campbell have drawn the most media attention among the players that became unrestricted free agents at noon today, but it will be hard to find a player who has attracted more interest from teams than former Devil Brian Rolston.

Rolston's agent, Stephen Bartlett, said that he had offers from 17 teams as of 4:30 p.m. Although Bartlett would not say if the Devils are one of the team's involved, a source indicated that the Devils were interested. Bartlett wasn't sure if Rolston would pick a team today.

"It's been fast and furious and there's a lot of teams involved and I can't really handicap it at this point," Bartlett said. "We're just working through it. It's hard with that many teams to get down to a workable number and figure out which way to go."

Bartlett said Rolston has offers that meet what he is looking for in terms of years and money.

"I think we're in the range of what we had hoped for, so I'm not too worried about not ending up with a good package," Bartlett said. "Then, it becomes more difficult to pick the team."

Tampa Bay traded a conditional draft pick to Minnesota to acquire Rolston's negotiating rights on Sunday night, but he passed on the Lightning's offer to see what other teams were interested. That move appears to have paid off.

The Lightning signed Radim Vrbata this afternoon, so that would seem to take them out of the bidding for Rolston. "I wouldn't say they are out of it, but they're fading," Rolston said.

Meanwhile, Edmonton is rumored to making a heavy push to sign Hossa and Chicago and Atlanta have been seriously involved in the pursuit of Campbell.


sheesh

[pand75]

Yeah, they're saying Hossa is making a decision soon. They were right about Tucker making a decision soon.

And then Eklund gives an e4 to Hossa to Edmonton. But that's stupid Eklund.

I just want to hear his decision already. I'm too impatient.
It's not stupid!!!!

[LastPlaceRocks]

What do you expect, it's a bad free agent class.

[we are cured]

apparently offers of less than 60 million total for campbell are being 'laughed at'

[larokr]

It's not stupid!!!!

No, I'm saying "stupid Eklund" because Eklund is stupid.
Not about Hossa going to Edmonton, haha.
But I'd be upset about it, obviously.

[LastPlaceRocks]

apparently offers of less than 60 million total for campbell are being 'laughed at'
Just ridiculous.

[pand75]

No, I'm saying "stupid Eklund" because Eklund is stupid.
Not about Hossa going to Edmonton, haha.
But I'd be upset about it, obviously.
I know lol Just if we can land Hossa, I'm probably going to yell so loud that all you guys will hear me.

[bigmike]

Haha. Classic BigMike. If I had a dime every time someone on a Pens message board suggested signing someone because "they'll take less to pay with Malkin and Crosby", I'd be a very wealthy man.
The best is the numerous people saying "I'm willing to get rid of Filppulathis year and Franzen next year for Hossa long term!"


uhhhh, pass on that one for me, thanks.
I'm not a Mike Smith fan, but that's a bad move for the Bolts if they end up trading him.
Yeah I agree. I'm not a big Smith fan but Smith > Kolzig in a starting, back up, or just chillin' in a box seat somewhere.