tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88066958019263119472024-03-13T03:50:05.381-04:00Steve Lloyd's In The Box blogSteve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-14953644099696739002013-07-22T21:37:00.000-04:002013-07-22T21:58:08.981-04:00Canada's deep...thanks tipsCanada's 47 man orientation camp roster was announced today, so that means it's time for our second favourite sport......second guessing. So with that, here's a another list to tick people off. The next 25 names (the 2014 Olympics allow for 22 skaters and 3 goalies). As you can tell I'm counting on some maturation (cough-Seguin-cough) and some bounce backs from injury. Rip away. <br />
<br />
E. Kane Spezza Burns<br />
Benn Seguin Lupul<br />
Skinner Lecavalier Williams <br />
Dupuis Laich Simmonds<br />
Marleau Weiss<br />
<br />
Campbell Girardi<br />
Beauchemin Schultz<br />
Giordano Garrison<br />
Jackman Boychuk<br />
<br />
Ward<br />
Brodeur<br />
Bernier<br />
<br />
The maybe list if they develop faster than expected, bounce back, or pick up from what they showed in the playoffs:<br />
<br />
Nugent-Hopkins, Kadri, Bickell, MacKinnon, Brassard, Horton, Henrique, Zajac, Cowen, Myers, Bieksa, Coburn, Del Zotto, Franson, Fleury, Reimer<br />
<br />
So, the point of this is to illustrate just how deep Canada is. You could put together a team full of Canadians not on the 47 man orientation list, and it's conceivable that team could medal.<br />
Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-72144039859063661352013-07-11T13:50:00.001-04:002013-07-11T13:50:22.709-04:00Should fans really be concerned?Twitter has turned me into an extremely lazy blogger. Bobby Butler's buyout? That's the last thing I wrote?! In other news the Sens have signed Darrin Madely.<br />
<br />
After hearing Eugene Melnyk say he won't be investing further in the Ottawa Senators or the city, naturally Sens fans are little concerned. Though Melnyk didn't say the team is in any jeopardy (in fact he implied it's now viable with a lower payroll), he did say he can't spend another "5 or 6" million on salary. This is the part where I could splinter off into wild speculation on numerous issues, but for now, let's stick to hockey and some numbers that are proven facts.<br />
<br />
As of today the Senators have the fourth lowest cap payroll in the NHL. There could be some movement before the 2013-14 season, but it's fair to expect the team to stay at or near that position. I'll preface the rest with the fact I like the make-up of this team. I expect the Sens to be a playoff team, but beyond that, the numbers don't lie.<br />
<br />
We have had eight seasons of salary cap hockey in the NHL. An era that was supposed to usher in more parity and close the gap between the have and have-nots. In terms of having a chance to not just make the playoffs but maybe go on a deep run to at least conference final? The short answer is....not really.<br />
<br />
In the 8 seasons of non salary cap hockey prior to the lockout of 2004, the NHL produced 5 different champions, 11 different finalists and 17 different conference finalists. In the 8 seasons since then, the numbers are 7, 11 and 20.<br />
<br />
The real concern for Sens fans, or any low spending team comes when you look at the cap payrolls of deep playoff teams in the salary cap era. No team in the bottom third has made a final (0-16) and only 2 teams in the bottom third have ever made a conference final ( '06 Sabres - 25th, '09 Canes - 22nd).<br />
<br />
So. Can the Senators be a competitive team with a low cap payroll? Of course they can. With legitimate star power, great goaltending and a plethora of young improving players you'd be a fool to absolutely close the door on "anything is possible". However, if Eugene Melnyk is serious about not investing any further into this team and therefore perennially being in the bottom third of payroll, the Senators will have to make some salary cap era history just to make a final within the next few years.<br />
<br />
Sources:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://content.usatoday.com/sportsdata/hockey/nhl/salaries/team/" target="_blank">http://content.usatoday.com/sportsdata/hockey/nhl/salaries/team/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://capgeek.com/" target="_blank">http://capgeek.com/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-68166190049075233232012-07-26T13:17:00.000-04:002012-07-26T13:17:38.660-04:00Butler to be bought outThe Senators have placed Bobby Butler on waivers. If he clears at noon tomorrow he'll be bought out for 1/3 of the 1.2 million left on his contract. The Sens will save 800,000 in real cash. The cap hit after the buyout will be 75,000 this season and 200,000 next.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-52694905424442602012012-07-24T13:07:00.000-04:002012-07-24T13:07:01.437-04:00Explaining why the Senators have a buy-out option this week<br />
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">During the course of every
NHL calendar year there are two buyout periods. The first comes in the two weeks
leading up to July 1st, and the second is reserved for teams that have players
that have filed for arbitration. However, if the arbitration is team elected,
that team must file against two players to have the option of buying out a
contract.<br /> <br />Here is the exact language from the CBA with the pertinent
parts in bold and my comments in italics: <br /> <br /><b>11.18 Ordinary
Course Buy-Outs Outside the Regular Period.</b>Clubs shall have the
right to exercise Ordinary Course Buy-Outs outside the regular period for
Ordinary<br />Course Buy-Outs in accordance with Paragraph 13(c)(ii) of the SPC.
Each Club shall be<br />limited to no more than three (3) such buyouts over the
term of this Agreement pursuant<br />to Paragraph 13(c)(ii) of the SPC.
<b>However, in the event that a Club has only one salary<br />arbitration
hearing pursuant to Section 12.3(a)</b> in a given League Year, such Club
shall<br />not be entitled to exercise such a buyout outside the regular period
for Ordinary Course<br />Buy-Outs. No Club shall exercise an Ordinary Course
Buy-out outside the regular period<br />for any Player earning less than $1
million.<br /> <br /><i>The phrase pursuant to section to 12.3(a) is the key here
as it deals only with club-elected arbitration. The only arbitration case the
Sens had was for Kaspars Daugavins, who was the party that filed, not the club.
Therefore, the Sens are allowed to buy-out a contract if they so choose later
this week.<br /> <br />As far as the timing for a possible buy-out? First, the club
must put the player on waivers for the purpose of buying him out. If he's
claimed, great. If not, you buy out the contract. The buy-out period really
starts ticking the day an arbitrator rules on a contract, or the day the two
sides that were headed for arbitration settle on a new contract. The club must
wait three days before waiving the player. In the Sens case, since Daugavins
signed yesterday, the earliest would be Thursday. Starting Thursday the Sens
would have 48 business hours complete the process of waiving and buying out a
player. See below for the exact language:</i>
<br /> <br /><b>Section 13(ii) of Standard Player's
Contract:</b><br /><b>For Clubs who have Club or Player elected Salary
Arbitration filings<br />pursuant to Article 12, within the forty-eight (48) hour
period beginning on the third day<br />following the later of: (i) the Club's
receipt of its last salary arbitration award; or (ii) settlement<br />of its last
case</b> (provided such award was received or such settlement occurred
after 7:00 p.m.<br />New York time; awards or settlements that occurred or were
received after 7:00 p.m. New York<br />time will be deemed to have occurred or
received the following business day for purposes of
this<br />provision).<br /> <br /><i>All this means is that the Sens have the option to
buy-out a player. The obvious follow-up question is, should they? You can argue both sides.
</i><br /> <br /><b>Pro buy-out</b> <br /> <br />(i)-According to <a href="http://capgeek.com/reserve_lists.php?team_id=23" target="_blank">http://capgeek.com</a>, once Stephane Da Costa is re-signed there
will be 48 contracts counting against the Sens reserve list. The limit is 50.
When you factor in the fact a teenaged Mika Zibanejad will also count by being
in Ottawa or Binghamton, that brings the number to a very too close for comfort
49. Being that close can really limit in season flexibility (note-signed junior
aged players don't count towards 50 limit unless they're pro in North
America).<br /> <br />(ii)-The Daugavins signing gives the Sens 13 forwards on one
way contracts. That doesn't include players like Silfverberg, Zibanejad, Stone,
Noesen, Hoffman etc...who are all still on entry level
deals. They're could be just too many forwards in the mix right now for a team that is still "building a foundation", as head coach Paul Maclean likes to say. <br /> <br />(iii)-Money. For example. Does Bobby Butler really fit in? He is
set to make 1.2 million dollars in the upcoming final season of his deal. Since
he's under 26, he can be bought out for 1/3 of that which would equate to a savings of $800,000 in cold hard cash for owner Eugene
Melnyk.<br /> <br /><b>Con buy-out</b><br /> <br />(i)-Despite already having
13 forwards, 6 defensemen and 2 goalies on one way contracts (I include Cowen in
that as he is obviously on the team), as it stands today according to <a href="http://capgeek.com/charts.php?Team=23" target="_blank">http://capgeek.com</a>, the Sens are still about three million dollars
under the salary floor. However, the floor could certainly go down once the new
CBA is hammered out. Whenever the hell that day comes..... </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">We'll see if the Sens exercise their buy-out option later this week. </span></div>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-56333039126602756342012-05-10T21:21:00.000-04:002012-05-11T19:57:26.839-04:00If Alfie retires....trade him?<div>
I know even suggesting the trading of Daniel Alfredsson in
this town could be construed as a career-limiting move but hear me out
on this one because it could make sense. My rationale is simple, if he’s
going to retire, why not explore the possibility of another team
picking up his $4,875,000 cap hit for next season? Alfredsson, 39,
signed his current four year deal after he turned 35 which means his
annual cap hit remains on the books whether he retires or not, but not
his actual salary. Next season, his salary is a paltry (by NHL
standards) $1 million.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The best example of a “cap trade” in recent history is
when the New York Rangers dealt Michal Rozsival to the league owned
Coyotes for Wojtek Wolski during the 2010-11 season. On the surface,
it’s a budget team (Phoenix) taking on a contract that carried an annual
cap hit of $5 million, while trading a player whose cap hit was only
$3.8 million. However, Rozsival’s front loaded contract only paid him $4
million last season and $3 million this season, while Wolski’s was $3.6
million last season and $4 million this season. The Coyotes cap hit
jumped by almost $1.8 million over the life of the contracts, but their
payroll dropped because Roszival made less actual cash than Wolski.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The beauty in trading for a retired player like Alfredsson
is the team that acquires him would only be on the hook for the cap hit,
not the $1 million dollar salary. Two things are certain in the NHL
every off season: No. 1, there are always teams looking to move cash,
and No. 2, there are always teams just trying to get to the salary cap
floor. In the end, owners of “budget teams” care more about actual cash
being paid to players. The cap floor is compulsory, the ceiling is irrelevant
if you never intend to spend to it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
According to http://capgeek.com/ there were 10 teams
(including Ottawa) that finished this season at least $8.4 million
dollars under the salary cap. There are three ways to see an Alfredsson
trade as plausible: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One: Some team might see Alfredsson as a way to get to the cap floor without actually spending a dime.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Two: A team isn’t going to park the cap hit for the Sens
out of the goodness of its heart. Ottawa could sweeten the deal by
flipping picks (ie: The Sens send Alfredsson and a 4th to a team for a
6th round pick).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Three: There are always teams looking to move cash.
Especially ones that can’t spend to the cap. The Sens could possibly
find a fit for a player they could use that another team would like to
shed because he makes too much. Remember, if Alfredsson retires, he
makes $0. That can be music to the ears of a budget team if the Sens are
willing to take back a player that actually draws a salary.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keep in mind all of this could be moot for two reasons. No. 1, Alfredsson doesn't retire. No. 2, The Sens likely won't be close to the cap anyway. However, if it were to happen it would play out like this: Alfredsson tells the Sens he’s retiring, Bryan Murray flips his
rights to another team, Alfredsson actually retires and takes whatever
hockey operations job is created for him with the Sens. It’s like he
never left ... except for $4,875,000 in cap space.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="tracker_cap_hit"><br /></span><br />
<span class="tracker_cap_hit"> </span><br />
<span class="tracker_cap_hit"><br /></span>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-58811585690381065792012-04-21T15:23:00.000-04:002012-04-21T17:14:01.120-04:00**Amendment**. Mark Stone to join even a shorter list<i>***Amendment to post. The source info goes by calendar year and therefore doesn't account for early birthdays. Therefore, the teenage list even more exclusive. It's actually 10, not 17. Apologies.*** </i> <br />
<br />
It appears Mark Stone will be suiting up for the Ottawa Senators tonight for game five of eastern conference quarterfinals against the New York Rangers. If he does, he'll become just the *11th* teenager to have their first NHL game be a playoff game. Here's the list:<br />
<br />
<b>18 year olds: (4)</b><br />
<br />
Gaye Stewart 1942<br />
Rod Brind'Amour 1989<br />
Mike Modano 1989<br />
Jarome Iginla 1996<br />
<br />
<b>19 year olds: (6)</b><br />
<br />
Gerry Couture 1945<br />
Marcel Pronovost 1950<br />
Gary Leeman 1983<br />
Bob Halkidis 1985<br />
Dan Vincelette 1987<br />
Daniel Marois 1988<br />
<br />
Mark Stone? 2012 <br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.quanthockey.com/">http://www.quanthockey.com/</a><br />
<br />
<br />Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-32324084223765774732012-04-11T13:46:00.007-04:002012-04-11T15:43:55.423-04:00Zibanejad and SilfverbergWith the post season set to begin for the Senators tomorrow night in New York, there is still a lot of buzz amongst the fan base regarding the availability of two of the organization's top prospects. That "buzz" picked up again yesterday when Mika Zibanejad (who turns 19 next week) spent the entire practice skating with Jason Spezza and Milan Michalek on the Senators top line. However, the plan was, and is, for the 6th overall pick in the 2011 Draft to head to Binghamton and play in the B-Sens final two games of the season this Friday and Saturday <a href="http://senators.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=627322">http://senators.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=627322</a>. Yesterday he skated with Spezza and Michalek, this morning he was with Mike Hoffman and Jack Downing.<br /><br />What happens with Zibanejad next is where it gets interesting. Senators assistant G.M. Tim Murray is sending Director of Player Development Randy Lee along with pro scouts Jim Clark and Rob Murphy to watch Zibanejad play. Murray says it's not about whether or not the young forward can rack of up some points, but he and the brass want to get better handle on his energy level and pace of play. Zibanejad suffered through a tough season in the Swedish Elite League where he battled through an illness and also received a concussion. Sending 3 scouts to watch him play this weekend is all about gauging whether or not it's worth it to at least make him available to Paul Maclean at some point this post season.<br /><br />If you are concerned about Zibanejad burning up year one of his entry level contract (by playing one more NHL game), don't be. To quote Tim Murray:<br /><br /><em>"The burning the year here for me doesn't mean anything, he's a top end player that's gonna get his money, he's gonna get his term down the road...but in saying that it is a big decision and you want to be sure that he does bring you that jump, that life and that energy. They're going to keep a close eye on him down there (with Binghamton) and just see where he's at from a physical standpoint."</em><br /><br />It should be pointed out that under the terms of the C.B.A, there's a big difference between the 10 game threshold and the one that comes at 40 games. When a junior aged player hits the 10 game mark, year one of his entry level contract burned, but that doesn't put him any closer to unrestricted free agency. That year is burned at the 40 game mark which is the threshold for an accrued NHL season. When players enter the league the clock starts ticking on their wait to becoming a unrestricted by either spending 7 years in the league or hitting their 27th birthday, whichever comes first. In some cases, burning year one of entry level could actually be beneficial. More from Tim Murray:<br /><br /><em>"Actually by burning the year we get rid of potentially the one year of bonuses that he could make. As I talked to his agent yesterday, neither side is sure who gains by burning the year...He's got 3 years of potentially decent bonus money, you have to assume that he would achieve that in his third year..but there is the potential that he doesn't max out his full earning power by burning a year. That's not a reason we'd do it (play him to burn year 1), I'm just giving you both sides of the story."</em><br /><br />Meanwhile, the organization's top prospect is continuing his dominant season in Sweden. Jakob Silfverberg has Brynas up 1-0 in the finals. A series that could end as early as this Sunday, or at the latest April 21st. Tim Murray has been contact with his Silfverberg's agents since the start of the Elite League playoffs:<br /><br /><em>"We've made it clear we want him here. They're going to do their due diligence and get his release from the national team is what I'm told. When he's done there...he wants to be here. Legitimately, I could see him getting in the line-up. He's a helluva player. It's not like you're putting a kid in the lineup, he's 3 years in the elite league...he's the second youngest MVP (Peter Forsberg) ever...Apart from being in the American League, his development has been outstanding and we believe that he's ready for the next step."</em><br /><em></em><br />Note: Due to his age, Silfverberg burns year one of his entry level deal this year regardless. <br /><em></em><br />Here is the link for our interview with Tim Murray:<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151506368305585">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151506368305585</a>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-58839897619449200022011-12-18T09:23:00.007-05:002011-12-18T18:04:30.983-05:00Turris: Options now and in the futureWhat a difference a year makes. At this time last year the Sens top prospect at centre was probably Jim O'Brien. Since then the club has picked up Stephane Da Costa, Mika Zibanejad, and now Kyle Turris. This doesn't guarantee anything, but it at least gives the organization three new "possibles" for that much talked about 2nd line centre position over the next couple of years. Remember, even though the Sens are hanging around the 8th spot right now, this is a rebuild, what's happening now is gravy.<br /><br />Having said that, don't tell that to the players or head coach Paul Maclean. As Herm Edwards told us "you play....to win.....the games". Not too long ago Peter Regin was injured, Nick Foligno was strictly a winger and Kyle Turris was holding out in Phoenix. Those are three options to fill that second line centre spot right now that weren't there couple of weeks ago.<br /><br />Despite the return of Regin and the great play from Foligno of late, Turris is going to get that spot right away. The aforementioned two could very well be his wingers (until the return of Michalek). You don't trade David Rundblad and just wait and see. With Regin and Foligno back on the wing, the odd man out is obviously Bobby Butler. With Spezza and Turris as the centres, it's hard to see a scenario(barring injury or another move)where the underachieving winger plays ahead of Michalek*, Alfredsson, Regin, Foligno or Greening in the top 6.<br /><br />As far as the actual trade is concerned. It's always risky when a G.M. gives up a young unproven asset with plenty of upside. Both the Sens and Coyotes are in the same boat on this one, but good on Don Maloney for creating a market/bidding war for Turris and getting a 2nd round pick. If you're Bryan Murray you can live with giving up Rundblad as it has become apparent that the big money on the blue-line will be going to Karlsson and eventually Cowen for the foreseeable future.<br /><br />Like any trade of this nature, there's no way to pass judgement on it until a few years have passed. After all that's been written and said it will simply come down to which player doesn't reach his full potential.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-68808678556165415382011-12-12T20:20:00.005-05:002011-12-12T20:53:09.148-05:00From Nikita to BobbyNow that the Nikita Filatov experiment is over for this season (maybe for good) the question I have is, how long will the Bobby Butler experiment last? G.M. Bryan Murray and head coach Paul Maclean made it abundantly clear today, if you're a player that is expected to put up points, then you'd better do just that. Both Murray and Maclean acknowledge that's not really fair, but that's NHL hockey. They're right. Which brings us to Bobby Butler. He's worked hard all season, but what exactly is the young winger bringing if he's not scoring? He's in exactly the same position Filatov was. A young player that has been given opportunity (Butler even more-so) that has failed to take advantage. <br /><br />The difference between Butler and Filatov is their contracts. Having scored just twice in 21 games (both coming in the same game), I would assume if Butler was still on entry level he would have already spent some time in Binghamton this season. He is in year one of a two year, one way contract, that pays him 900,000 this season. However, despite being on a one way, inexperience in the NHL means Butler still has to play 11 NHL games before he is no longer waiver exempt ( <a href="http://bit.ly/sLOV1M">http://bit.ly/sLOV1M</a>).<br /><br />After once again getting his share of minutes with top 6 players (which included power play time) in recent games, Butler found himself back on the 4th line again for practice today. Now that Peter Regin is healthy, his window to show something in the top 6 has probably closed for the time being. Why not take advantage of his waiver exempt status while it still exists? See if some time in Bingo can rekindle a scoring touch saw him pot 45 goals in 106 pro games last season. Like Filatov, Butler is a young player that's expected to score. The Sens have other players to do the 'little things". It's not fair, but that's the NHL.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-52649919963369673952011-10-14T14:21:00.003-04:002011-10-14T16:57:08.925-04:00Sens are green but flexible<em>Interesting tidbit in this year of rebuilding for the Ottawa Senators. There are 8 roster players that are waiver exempt. This illustrates how green the team is, but also how flexible management can be with the roster in terms of shuttling players between Ottawa and Binghamton. <br /><br />Courtesy Capgeek.com's waiver calculator, here is a list of current roster players on the Senators that are waiver exempt. This shows the number of years (not including 2011-12) or games he has to play before lose his exemption (whichever he reaches first):<br /></em><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span>Bobby Butler 1 year or 30 games<br /><br />Erik Condra 1 year or 31 games<br /><br />Colin Greening 1 year or 32 games<br /><br />Stephane Da Costa 2 years or 72 games<br /><br />Mika Zibanejad 5 years or 156 games<br /><br />Jared Cowen 3 years or 155 games<br /><br />David Rundblad 2 years or 158 games<br /><br />Erik Karlsson 1 year or 15 gamesSteve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-83218726514164246952011-07-20T14:56:00.002-04:002011-07-20T14:59:19.189-04:00A little perspective on Patrick LalimeFirst off. Congrats to Patrick Lalime on a fine career and on his new job with RDS.<br /><br />Unfortunately for Lalime, hockey fans and experts alike judge his time in Ottawa on what happened in game 7 against the Leafs in 2004. Understandable, because it was horrific. But over the years it seems people are too quick to use that period in that game to judge his body of playoff work over 4 seasons in Ottawa. It's uniformed and it's not right.<br /><br />A little perspective: <br /><br />-Patrick Lalime played 41 post season games with the Sens over the course of 4 years (2001-2004)<br />-The Sens bowed out in the 1st round in 2001, the 2nd in 2002, the 3rd in 2003 and the 1st in 2004<br />-Lalime's post season stats are: 21-20, 1.77 GAA, .926 SV%. Some of the best numbers of all time<br />-In those 41 games, the Sens averaged just 2.09 goals per game. They were shutout 9 times, and scored just one goal on 4 other occasions<br />-In each of those 4 regular seasons the supposedly always defense first Sens averaged 3.17 goals per game. The team was 3rd, 5th, 3rd and 1st in goals for during those regular seasons. <br /><br />Anyone who puts the Sens playoff shortcomings on Patrick Lalime should take a look at the numbers and give their head a shake. How does a team expect to have playoff success if it's goals for drops by over a goal a game in the playoffs? It's a miracle they won 3 series in Lalime's time.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-70506315956333007082011-07-09T21:54:00.004-04:002011-07-15T06:42:44.309-04:00Sens need to clear the deck...againOK. The title is a little misleading, but the Sens have been so busy signing and re-signing players the past couple of the weeks, they are in danger of not having a truly competitive training camp. By that I mean, they have too many one way contracts for a team that's supposed to be re-tooling.<br /><br />As it stands now there are 12 one way deals at forward and another 5 on the blue-line(When you include Erik Karlsson, you can essentially make that 6). Meanwhile, Anderson and Auld are on one ways in goal. That's 20 right there. You can carry 23, but the Sens never have done that in the salary cap or the "budget" era. They historically have carried 21.<br /><br />Here is your opening night line-up based on contract situations.<br /><br />Michalek Spezza Alfredsson<br />Foligno Regin Butler<br />Greening Smith Condra<br />Winchester Konopka Neil<br /><br />Kuba Karlsson<br />Gonchar Phillips<br />Lee Carkner<br /><br />Anderson<br />Auld<br /><br />Here are some of the players that have serious to fair shots at making the team, but as it stands now, there's just no room.<br /><br />F - Filatov, Da Costa, Zibanejad, O'Brien, Silfverberg(if he changes his mind and comes to camp)<br /><br />D - Rundblad, Cowen, Borowiecki, Gryba, Wiercioch<br /><br />G - Lehner (Barring injury to Anderson he'll be in Bingo, but I had to include the AHL playoff MVP)<br /><br />Some of those players on 2 ways will definitely be on the team. Even though the Sens will not be spending to the cap, I can't see Eugene Melnyk being happy with burying one way money in the AHL. The point being, it's a pretty good bet Bryan Murray will be looking to shed at least a couple of one way contracts through trade prior to training camp, or at the latest, prior to the start of the season.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-66091343529888088112011-06-21T13:56:00.007-04:002011-06-23T10:29:19.431-04:002011 NHL Mock Draft<div><strong></strong>OK. Here we go. As always, this is just for fun. I'm a bit of draft geek, but do not profess to be an expert. I read all the guides, talk to scouts, writers, broadcasters....and watch some of the players. In the end, I take a stab. Enjoy...or rip to shreds. </div><div> </div><div><em>(One obvious note: I did this mock draft assuming everyone will stay where they are in the first round. I think we all know there is zero chance of that happening. Should be fun to follow on Friday night. )</em> <br /><br /><strong>1. Edmonton <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Oilers</span></strong><br /><em>Ryan <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nugent</span>-Hopkins - Centre - 6'1, 170</em><br />- I don't buy that there's a top 4 in this draft that could all go number 1. Most scouts have the Red Deer centre as the best prospect in the draft.<br /><br /><strong>2. Colorado Avalanche<br /></strong><em>Gabriel <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Landeskog</span> - Winger - 6'1, 207</em><br />- To follow up on what was said above, I believe there is a "next 3" in this draft. They're so close, teams might draft on need rather "best player available". The Avalanche are loaded with good young centres. They acquired Erik Johnson to lead their blue-line into the future, but had to part with power winger Chris Stewart. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Landeskog</span> fills a need, and he's ready to play right now.<br /><br /><strong>3. Florida Panthers<br /></strong><em>Jonathan <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Huberdeau</span> - Centre - 6'1, 168</em><br />- Ever since Dale <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tallon</span> took over as G.M. in Florida he has been very open about his desire to acquire a true number one centre. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">QMJHL</span> playoff, and Memorial Cup MVP has that potential.<br /><br /><strong>4. New Jersey Devils</strong><br /><em>Adam <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Larsson</span> - Defense - 6'3, 200</em><br />- Along with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Brodeur</span>, The blue-line used to be trademark of the Devils. 20 years after nabbing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Niedermayer</span> with the 3rd pick, the Devils draft another stud at 4.<br /><br /><strong>5. N.Y. Islanders</strong><br /><em>Dougie Hamilton - Defense - 6'4, 193</em><br />- <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tavares</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grabner</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Niederreiter</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Okposo</span>, Bailey, Nelson, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cizikas</span>. The Isles have a slew of good young forwards. Hard to look past the size and skill of Hamilton to help compliment <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hamonic</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">Haan</span>.<br /><br /><strong>6. Ottawa Senators</strong><br /><em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">Mika</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zibanejad</span> - Centre - 6'2, 191</em><br />- The Sens need to develop a centre to compliment Jason <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">Spezza</span>. At this point of the draft there are 3 good ones on board. I'll go with one of the biggest climbers in draft. Heavy shot, good size and speed and didn't looked out of place playing with men in Sweden. If the Sens truly do like this player, they might be able to trade down and still nab him. <br /><br /><strong>7. Winnipeg (Jets?)</strong><br /><em>Sean Couturier - Centre - 6'4, 195</em><br />- This team is crying out for a star down the middle. Couturier's stock took a big hit throughout the season, but that could be due to a late '92 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">birthdate</span>. Over-scouting? Some have questioned his intensity, but he has the potential to be the best player in the draft.<br /><br /><strong>8. Columbus Blue Jackets</strong><br /><em>Ryan <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">Strome</span> - Centre - 6'0, 183</em><br />- Looking to fill the void at centre, the Jackets took <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-error">Johansen</span> last year. They add to cupboard here. The Niagara centre had a 79 point improvement to record 106 points this season, tying him with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nugent</span>-Hopkins for most points by a draft eligible player.<br /><br /><strong>9. Boston Bruins (from Toronto)</strong><br /><em>Ryan Murphy - Defense - 5'11 176</em><br />- Said to be the most dynamic offensive player in the draft. The Stanley Cup Champs have to be happy to complete the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kessel</span> trade by taking a player that could run a power play for the next 15 years. The doubters say he's too small and won't be able to defend well enough to excel at the NHL level. We'll see.<br /><br /><strong>10. Minnesota Wild</strong><br /><em>Jonas <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_26" class="blsp-spelling-error">Brodin</span> - Defense - 6'1 165</em><br />- Played regularly with men in Swedish Elite League. Known for strong hockey sense, being a good skater that makes a good first pass. Would look good on a future blue-line with fellow prospects <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" class="blsp-spelling-error">Scandella</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_28" class="blsp-spelling-error">Cuma</span>.<br /><br /><strong>11. Colorado Avalanche (from St. Louis)</strong><br /><em>Nathan <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_29" class="blsp-spelling-error">Beaulieu</span> - Defense - 6'2, 185</em><br />- After getting <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_30" class="blsp-spelling-error">Landeskog</span> at #2 to replace Stewart in the Johnson trade, the Av's fill the void left by including <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_31" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shattenkirk</span> in that same deal by taking the highly skilled Sea Dogs blue-liner. Just needs to fill out to compete at the next level.<br /><br /><strong>12. Carolina Hurricanes</strong><br /><em>Sven <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_32" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bartschi</span> - Winger - 5'11, 175</em><br />- 85 points for Portland in the regular season and another 27 in 20 playoff games. Not the biggest player in the draft but has potential to be a solid 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_33" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> line scorer.<br /><br /><strong>13. Calgary Flames</strong><br /><em>Rocco <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_34" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grimaldi</span> - Centre - 5'6, 163</em><br />- Where to begin. The Flames prospect cupboard is almost bare. The Flames gave up on an undersized future superstar 11 years ago. Why not try and right that wrong and take a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_35" class="blsp-spelling-error">flyer</span> on this 5'6 dynamo that has some scouts saying he's the "next" Marty St.Louis. Who was the G.M. in Tampa that won a cup with St.Louis? Oh yeah, Jay <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_36" class="blsp-spelling-error">Feaster</span>.<br /><br /><strong>14. Dallas Stars</strong><br /><em>Mark <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_37" class="blsp-spelling-error">Scheifele</span> - Centre - 6'2, 177</em><br />- Brad Richards is on his way out. Time to start thinking about future point producing centres in Dallas. Barrie was awful this season, but <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_38" class="blsp-spelling-error">Scheifele</span> put up a solid 75 points. Seen as a bit raw with a lot of upside. Could be just scratching the surface. <br /><br /><strong>15. N.Y. Rangers</strong><br /><em>Tyler <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_39" class="blsp-spelling-error">Biggs</span> - Winger - 6'2, 210</em><br />- Head Coach John <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_40" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tortorella</span> likes hard nosed players. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_41" class="blsp-spelling-error">Biggs</span> is physically ready to play in the NHL right now and is seen as toughest most robust player in the first round of this draft. Decent skill. Loves to hit and drop the gloves. Son of pro journeyman Don <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_42" class="blsp-spelling-error">Biggs</span>.<br /><br /><strong>16. Buffalo Sabres</strong><br /><em>Duncan Siemens - Defense - 6'3, 197</em><br />- Cue the "I can't believe he was available here" quote. Nothing flashy, just solid. Has mean streak on the ice to compliment his 6'3 frame. Willing to drop the gloves. Hard shot, great skater. Good pick here. With Myers and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_43" class="blsp-spelling-error">Gragnani</span>, the Sabres blue-line is in good hands for years to come. <br /><br /><strong>17. Montreal <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_44" class="blsp-spelling-error">Canadiens</span></strong><br /><em>Joel <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_45" class="blsp-spelling-error">Armia</span> - Winger - 6'3, 191</em><br />- Played with men in the Finnish Elite League where he scored 18 goals. Also led Fins in scoring with 13 points at U-18's. The knock is his drive or "give-a-crap-o-metre". The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_46" class="blsp-spelling-error">Habs</span> are banking that comes with maturity. Could be a home run pick.<br /><br /><strong>18. Chicago <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_47" class="blsp-spelling-error">Blackhawks</span></strong><br /><em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_48" class="blsp-spelling-error">JT</span> Miller - Winger - 6'1, 198</em><br />- Might lack scoring touch to put up big numbers at next level, but Miller is a power winger with good straight away speed and good skill. Has a great work ethic. Tenacious. Enjoys physical play. Led U.S. to gold medal at U-18's with team best 13 points.<br /><br /><strong>19. Edmonton (from Los Angeles)</strong><br /><em>Joe Morrow - Defense - 6'1, 196</em><br />- Gritty Edmonton native enjoys the rough stuff and is one of the better skaters in the draft. Very good puck mover and used his skilled 'mates in Portland very well. Needs work in the defensive zone, but has the tools to run a power play and be a point producer at the next level.<br /><br /><strong>20. Winnipeg Jets</strong><br /><em>Mark <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_49" class="blsp-spelling-error">McNeill</span> - Centre - 6'1, 204</em><br />- This Edmonton native could also entice the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_50" class="blsp-spelling-error">Oilers</span> but the "Jets" are glad to get him here. 32 goals, 81 points with Prince Albert in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_51" class="blsp-spelling-error">WHL</span>. Big, good speed, smart...this winger has a lot of tools, but some scouts question his drive. Needs to show he "wants it" on a more consistent basis. Like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_52" class="blsp-spelling-error">Armia</span>, that could come with maturity.<br /><br /><strong>21. Ottawa Senators (from Nashville)</strong><br /><em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_53" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nicklas</span> Jensen - Winger - 6'2, 188</em><br />- With plenty of top prospects on the blue-line, the Sens opt for another skilled forward with their 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_54" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> 1st round pick. In his 1st year in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_55" class="blsp-spelling-error">OHL</span>, the Danish winger had 29 goals and 58 points for Oshawa. Good agility for a big man. Already has an NHL shot and release. Needs to be more consistent to be an impact player, but it's all there waiting for him to take it.<br /><br /><strong>22. Anaheim Ducks</strong><br /><em>Jamie <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_56" class="blsp-spelling-error">Oleksiak</span> - Defense - 6'7, 244</em><br />- Look up. Way up. 6'7 and just learning how to use his size to his advantage. Decent agility and puck handling for a man his size. A bit of a project, but could be "high reward" pick down the road.<br /><br /><strong>23. Pittsburgh Penguins<br /></strong><em>Oscar <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_57" class="blsp-spelling-error">Klefbom</span> - Defense - 6'4 200</em><br />- The captain of Sweden's silver medal winning team at the U-18's also played in the Swedish Elite League as a 17 year old. Competes extremely hard and leads through his tenacity and physical play. Not the best skater but has good hockey sense and moves the puck well.<br /><br /><strong>24. Detroit Red Wings</strong><br /><em>Alexander <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_58" class="blsp-spelling-error">Khokhlachev</span> - Centre - 5'10, 188</em><br />- Led all draft eligible <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_59" class="blsp-spelling-error">OHL</span> rookies with 34 goals and 76 points while playing just across the river in Windsor which showed his willingness to play in North America, huge for an Russian prospect these days. Average skater with very good puck skills. Plays with a lot of jam for smaller player. September birthday means he's one of the youngest players in the draft, which scouts often see as having more room to grow than some other prospects.<br /><br /><strong>25. Toronto Maple Leafs(from Philadelphia)</strong><br /><em>Ty <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_60" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rattie</span> - Winger - 5'11, 170</em><br />- Had over 100 points in his combined 87 games this season with Portland in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_61" class="blsp-spelling-error">WHL</span>. Good skater and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_62" class="blsp-spelling-error">puckhandler</span> and has great offensive instincts. Like many players his age strength is a question mark, but has a really good chance to be a top 6 NHL forward.<br /><br /><strong>26. Washington Capitals</strong><br /><em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_63" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vladislav</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_64" class="blsp-spelling-error">Namestnikov</span> - Centre - 6'0, 170</em><br />- The Caps never shy away from Russians. The son of former <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_65" class="blsp-spelling-error">NHLer</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_66" class="blsp-spelling-error">Evgeny</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_67" class="blsp-spelling-error">Namestnikov</span> and nephew of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_68" class="blsp-spelling-error">Slava</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_69" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kozlov</span>. 68 points in rookie season with London in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_70" class="blsp-spelling-error">OHL</span>. Has speed, agility, vision, shot....but needs to put weight on and get stronger. Could have learned a thing or two about being more physical from the Hunters.<br /><br /><strong>27. Tampa Bay Lightning</strong><br /><em>Connor Murphy - Defense - 6'3, 185</em><br />- His stock fell after missing most of last 2 seasons with stress fracture in his back, but jumped back on the radar at U18's. Scored O-T winner for U.S in the gold medal game. Big, mobile <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_71" class="blsp-spelling-error">defenseman</span> with a great shot. Injuries make him a tough read, but the upside is certainly there.<strong><br /><br />28. San Jose Sharks</strong><br /><em>Shane Prince - Winger - 5'10, 181</em><br />- Doug Wilson has great respect for players that his mentor Brian <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_72" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kilrea</span> has churns out. Knowing that size and strength is the knock, Prince tested quite well at the combine. One the ice, he had 88 points in 59 games before suffering a concussion towards the end of the 67's season. One of the best play-makers in the draft. <strong><br /><br />29. Vancouver <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_73" class="blsp-spelling-error">Canucks</span></strong><br /><em>Boone Jenner - Centre - 6'1, 194</em><br />- Can play in all situations. Gives you a bit of scoring, jam and leadership. Could top out offensively as a 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_74" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> line centre, but could have a good career as 3rd liner that can give you a bit of everything. Character player.<br /><br /><strong>30. Toronto Maple Leafs (from Boston)</strong><br /><em>Matt <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_75" class="blsp-spelling-error">Puempel</span> - Winger - 6'0, 198</em><br />- Was on his way to 40 plus goals in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_76" class="blsp-spelling-error">Peterborough</span> before hip surgery ended his season causing him to miss the U-18's. Was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_77" class="blsp-spelling-error">OHL</span> rookie of the year in 09-10 with 33 goals. Seen as one of the best pure scorers in the draft. Needs to improve his skating to ensure he can get to the scoring areas at the next level.</div>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-58120307692081588662011-06-06T09:32:00.001-04:002011-06-06T09:33:58.265-04:0067 years AgoI posted this 1 year ago today and felt I'd share it again:<br /><br /> <br /><br />I usually stick to sports on this blog but today I feel compelled to share one soldier's story to help drive home the sacrifice that thousands of Canadians made on the beaches of Normandy 67 years ago today.<br /><br />Both of my grandfathers were there. I had the privilege of going back with my maternal grandfather in 2006, where I was honoured to help him lay a wreath as part of the official ceremonies. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVqaSbN9zfDDfnp2l0CwpX8GeCyxFXRxmjrNsYg4XwEfncf8nFUUMJpzG_lzr40R8u34WOuL7Be2rq0foIt2n-CdmOmc7iRaTUSfGrD4KhCMuL02fPP0Qxu4k9qQiuHzXeaasje90gEgj/s1600/Juno%2520Beach%2520Centre%25204.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVqaSbN9zfDDfnp2l0CwpX8GeCyxFXRxmjrNsYg4XwEfncf8nFUUMJpzG_lzr40R8u34WOuL7Be2rq0foIt2n-CdmOmc7iRaTUSfGrD4KhCMuL02fPP0Qxu4k9qQiuHzXeaasje90gEgj/s400/Juno%2520Beach%2520Centre%25204.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479822851774720210" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As we walked around the beach I tried to remember what worried me when I was 19. It probably had something to do with having enough money for pub night at Lakehead, and and that baseball's work stoppage was costing my Expos a shot at a World Series.<br /><br />After landing on and surviving Juno Beach with The North Shore(New Brunswick) regiment, 19 year old Noel Stephen Horan wasn't so lucky in the coming days. While volunteering to support The Royal Winnipeg Rifles he was captured by the SS Hitler Youth Division in the nearby village Putot de Besin. As we also visited that site four years ago, he recounted that the SS had he and his fellow prisoners lined up, on their knees, to be executed. A superior officer arrived at the last second to make them prisoners rather than casualties.<br /><br />Private Horan would spend the coming weeks walking(with the occasional cattle car ride) across France to his new home in Germany. While making the journey he told me they would often duck for cover as allied planes would attack not knowing some of their own were with the enemy. He remembers his captors stopping the march only to execute the prisoner standing right in front of him. The Nazis apparently had figured out that prisoner was Russian, and according to my grandfather, these Nazi's didn't take Russians prisoner.<br /><br />While being held in Germany, Private Horan would turn 20 on Christmas day. Four months later the war was over and Americans arrived to liberate he and his fellow prisoners. Standing about 5'11, he weighed 95 pounds. I'm happy to say he rarely missed a meal after that before leaving us in the fall of 2008.<br /><br />Five years ago we not only visited Juno Beach, but every major Canadian battlefield from both the first and second world wars. If you ever have the time and means to take such a trip, you'll be hard pressed to do anything else in your life that will make you feel more proud to be Canadian. You'll also have a greater appreciation for why we can never pay homage to what happened 67 years ago enough.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-4445405369423344982011-06-01T16:10:00.004-04:002011-06-01T16:57:45.449-04:00$82.00 a ticket means MTS Centre is big enoughAt 15,015, Winnipeg's MTS Centre is the smallest arena in the National Hockey League. The most obvious way to make up for this shortfall is to charge more per seat, and that's exactly what True North has done. By setting the average ticket price at $82.00, that makes the MTS centre 3rd most expensive place to watch a club hockey game in the world. Second only to Toronto($115.96) and Montreal($86.44). Ottawa is 10th at $59.74.<br /><br />(I left in Atlanta just for the sake of comparing it to Winnipeg)<br /><br />Average Ticket Price<br />1. Toronto $115.96<br />2. Montreal $86.44<br />3. Winnipeg $82.00<br />4. Calgary $66.68<br />5. Vancouver $65.20<br />6. Edmonton $64.87<br />7. Minnesota $62.63<br />8. Philadelphia $60.89<br />9. Pittsburgh $60.04<br />10.Ottawa $59.74<br />11.Rangers $58.57<br />12.Islanders $58.44<br />13.Washington $55.57<br />14.Chicago $55.39<br />15.Boston $54.94<br />16.Florida $54.12<br />17.Detroit $51.73<br />18.Nashville $51.04<br />19.New Jersey $50.83<br />20.Los Angeles $50.05<br />21.Columbus $47.66<br />22.San Jose $45.71<br />23.Anaheim $44.44<br />24.Atlanta $43.59<br />25.Carolina $41.58<br />26.Colorado $40.62<br />27.St.Louis $40.57<br />28.Tampa $37.73<br />29.Buffalo $36.43<br />30.Phoenix $36.15<br />31.Dallas $29.68<br /><br />Here is the order of teams in potential ticket revenue based on sell outs. These figures are on a per game basis.<br /><br />Seating Capacity x Average Ticket Price<br /><br />1. Toronto $2,182,251<br />2. Montreal $1,838,838<br />3. Calgary $1,286,190<br />4. Winnipeg $1,231,230<br />5. Vancouver$1,229,672<br />6. Philadelphia $1,189,607<br />7. Ottawa $1,144,200<br />8. Minnesota $1,131,348<br />9. Edmonton $1,092,345<br />10.Chicago $1,092,124<br />11.Pittsburgh $1,085,943<br />12.Rangers $1,065,974<br />13.Detroit $1,038,014<br />14.Washington $1,022,376<br />15.Boston $965,021<br />16.Islanders $948,714<br />17.Florida $922,204<br />18.Los Angeles $906,805<br />19.New Jersey $895,878<br />20.Nashville $873,447<br />21.Columbus $864,743<br />22.San Jose $802,759<br />23.St.Louis $776,915<br />24.Carolina $776,714<br />25.Atlanta $768,230<br />26.Anaheim $763,212<br />27.Tampa $745,469<br />28.Colorado $731,444<br />29.Buffalo $680,876<br />30.Phoenix $619,068<br />31.Dallas $550,029<br /><br />It should be noted the fact the 15,015 seat MTS centre is the smallest rink in the league by about 2600 seats means fewer concessions sales. However, aggressive ticket prices is just another way to help offset that. We know the NHL starved fans will pony up now, but the million dollar question of course is: Can Winnipegers stomach paying some of the highest hockey prices in the world long term?<br /><br />Footnotes:<br /><br /><a href="http://teammarketing.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/News/NHL%20FCI%202010-11.pdf">http://teammarketing.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/News/NHL%20FCI%202010-11.pdf</a><br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ice_hockey_arenas_by_capacity">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ice_hockey_arenas_by_capacity</a><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ice_hockey_arenas_by_capacity"></a></p>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-49587191689194563722011-05-24T10:07:00.006-04:002011-05-24T10:28:53.712-04:00Crohn's and Colitis Heel 'n' Wheel-A-Thon<div><div>It's that time of year again where I hit you with a personal message on my blog(Don't worry, they're usually few and far between). The annual Crohn's and Colitis Heel 'n' Wheel-A-thon is coming up on June 12th. For those that helped me raise over $1100.00 last year, a big thank you. I am once again honoured to be the emcee, and also thrilled to see my employer Team 1200 jump on board with a presence at this year's event.<br /><br />I was diagnosed with Crohn's 15 years ago at the age of 21. Many surgeries and medication changes later, I am still hopeful for a cure.<br /><br />Thanks in advance for any support you might be able to give.<br /><br />Steve<br /><br /><a href="https://secure.ccfcfindthecure.ca/ParticipantPage.aspx?PID=14136&L=2&CCID=95&GC=GTv2">https://secure.ccfcfindthecure.ca/ParticipantPage.aspx?PID=14136&L=2&CCID=95&GC=GTv2</a><br /><br /><br />If you are unfamiliar with the impact Crohn's and Colitis has on Canadians, check out the CCFC webpage:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ccfc.ca/site/c.ajIRK4NLLhJ0E/b.6431205/k.884D/The_Burden_of_IBD_in_Canada.htm">http://www.ccfc.ca/site/c.ajIRK4NLLhJ0E/b.6431205/k.884D/The_Burden_of_IBD_in_Canada.htm</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ccfc.ca/site/c.ajIRK4NLLhJ0E/b.6431205/k.884D/The_Burden_of_IBD_in_Canada.htm"></a></div></div>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-41166550475880632272011-04-10T12:35:00.005-04:002011-04-10T22:57:47.364-04:00NHL Draft Lottery Primer: Sens editionAll 14 non playoff teams are eligible to win the lottery. The winning team will jump up 4 places in the draft, subsequently dropping every team they pass 1 position.<br /><br />Numbers are courtesy of http://www.nhlscap.com/draft.htm<br /><br />The percentage chances winning the lottery:<br /><br />Edmonton 25.0% (250 combinations)<br />Colorado 18.8% (188 combinations)<br />Florida 14.2% (142 combinations)<br />Islanders 10.7% (107 combinations)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ottawa 8.1% (81 combinations)</span><br />Atlanta 6.2% (62 combinations)<br />Columbus 4.7% (47 combinations)<br />New Jersey 3.6% (36 combinations)<br />Boston 2.7% (27 combinations)<br />Minnesota 2.1% (21 combinations)<br />Colorado 1.5% (15 combinations)<br />Carolina 1.1% (11 combinations)<br />Calgary 0.8% (8 combinations)<br />Dallas 0.5% (5 combinations)<br /><br />Only the bottom 5 teams have a chance at the first pick. Here's how it breaks down:<br /><br />-Edmonton has a 48.2% chance of retaining the top pick and a 51.8% chance of slipping to #2<br /><br />-Colorado has an 18.8% chance of jumping to #1, a 42% chance of staying put at #2 and a 39.2% chance of slipping to #3<br /><br />-Florida has a 14.2% chance of jumping to #1, a 56.1% chance of staying put at #3 and a 29.7% chance of slipping to #4<br /><br />-The Islanders have a 10.7% chance of jumping to #1, a 66.7% chance of staying put at #4 and a 22.6% chance of slipping to #5<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">-Ottawa has an 8.1% chance of jumping to #1, a 74.7% chance of staying put at #5 and a 17.2% chance of slipping to #6</span><br /><br />Not including the "lockout lottery", where every team had an equal shot at Sidney Crosby, there have been 15 draft lotteries. The last place team has won the lottery just 6 of those 15 times. However, the last place club still retained the top pick on 2 other occasions, as the lottery winner came from outside the bottom 5:<br /><br />-6 times the last place team has won the lottery, including 4 of the past 5 years<br />-4 3rd place teams have won it: WSH 2004(Ovechkin), FLA 2002(traded, CBJ - Nash), ATL 2001(Kovalchuk), TBL 1998(Lecavalier)<br />-1 4th place team has won it: FLA 2003(traded, PIT - Fleury)<br />-2 5th place teams have won it: CHI 2007(Kane), 2000 NYI(Dipietro)<br />-1 7th place team has won it: LAK 1995 (3rd pick - Berg)<br />-1 8th place team has won it: CHI 1999 (4th pick, traded, NYR - Brendl)<br /><br /><br />Here's a look at how a Sens fan should watch the lottery unfold:<br /><br />If Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly starts the show by revealing the 5th pick belongs to Boston(via Toronto), feel free to kick in your TV, as history will have been made by the 22nd place team winning the lottery. The highest seeded team to ever win. Meaning, the Sens will have definitely slipped to 6th and the rest of the show has been ruined, as we will know the other teams will stay in their respective top four positions.<br /><br />If it's revealed Ottawa has retained the 5th pick, then we know one of the teams 17-21 or 27-30 has won the lottery.<br /><br />If it is revealed that the Islanders have secured the 5th pick, then it's gets fun for Sens fans, if only for a moment.<br /><br />4th pick - if it's New Jersey, Ottawa picks 6th. If it's Florida, the game is still afoot<br />3rd Pick - if it's Columbus, Ottawa picks 6th. If it's Colorado, keep playing along.<br /><br />From here, Bill Daly will jump ahead and reveal the top pick. If it's Ottawa, well, you know, Sens fans are happy. If it's Edmonton, that means Atlanta has won the lottery, jumping from 6th to 2nd. The Sens will pick 6th.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-75400307137663758642011-03-28T09:31:00.012-04:002011-03-29T14:07:09.986-04:00Running for a causeI don't run. I just don't. I'm more of a get up, have a coffee, read the paper, kind of guy. The only time I run is if it's part of a sport,or chasing after my kids(which is another sport). Running for running doesn't appeal to me. However, I do make exceptions. I make it for my mother when I run for breast cancer, I make it for those that have it worse than I do with I.B.D, and I'm making one now for my friend Greg Hebert. Here he is emceeing my wedding less than 4 years ago.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDiLlICbhrsRRfc5XM6l-WkKJbUm1KfxjbbRVCBfeOOuvEx4AqVVuVUKTIOTa3JIG3DAtaRfDu1mfBwGLSYx7OsTntk2A0g5yA0Q247dfgfoYs3qQFsX7a99jOk_cpBtoJfp-YRxu-iNL/s1600/B1+%2528607%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDiLlICbhrsRRfc5XM6l-WkKJbUm1KfxjbbRVCBfeOOuvEx4AqVVuVUKTIOTa3JIG3DAtaRfDu1mfBwGLSYx7OsTntk2A0g5yA0Q247dfgfoYs3qQFsX7a99jOk_cpBtoJfp-YRxu-iNL/s400/B1+%2528607%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589559625748091538" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As many of you know, Greg is the host of Business at Night on CFRA. 2011 has already been quite the year. He was married in January, turned 36 in February, and by the time the calendar flipped to March, was told he probably had 6 months to live. Greg has been battling cancer since he was 34. He's not going down with out a fight, and certainly not without trying to make a difference. For some perspective, I encourage to view Doug Hempstead's moving piece from the weekend:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ottawasun.com/news/ottawa/2011/03/26/17765776.html#/news/ottawa/2011/03/26/pf-17765726.html">http://www.ottawasun.com/news/ottawa/2011/03/26/17765776.html#/news/ottawa/2011/03/26/pf-17765726.html</a><br /><br />Now here comes to pitch: Get involved. Make a difference. Pledge me, or any other member of Team GreggyBear. Click on the link below, and then click on any team member you see in red on the bottom right.<br /><br /><a href="https://ottawacancer.akaraisin.com/pledge/Team/Home.aspx?seid=3621&tid=31843&mid=10">https://ottawacancer.akaraisin.com/pledge/Team/Home.aspx?seid=3621&tid=31843&mid=10</a><br /><br />Thanks<br /><br />SteveSteve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-25250293148572776392011-03-25T11:18:00.004-04:002011-03-25T13:13:19.998-04:00Gamesmanship vs Good TasteOn the surface Mark Recchi's comments about the Montreal Canadiens on a Boston radio station were absurd and moronic. By saying, "they were trying to get Zdeno suspended and they embellished it a little bit", Recchi called into question how serious the organization believed Pacioretty's injuries really were. Who's charged with making that determination for the Montreal Canadiens? Dr. David Mulder, and this is the part where the words absurd and moronic come in.<br /><br />Yesterday, I said Mark Recchi's comments were dumb, but he deserved a mulligan for his outstanding track record on and off the ice over a so far 22 year hall of fame career. I still believe that, and I was glad to see the classy vet own up to his "gamesmanship" last night.<br /><br /><object width="640" height="390"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bUIxr7X3Rqo?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bUIxr7X3Rqo?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="390"></embed></object><br /><br />However, my question now is, when does "gamesmanship" go to far? When is it inappropriate? When doesn't the ends justify the means?<br /><br />In an effort to take some pressure of a co-worker, is it in good taste that Mark Recchi lied about his true feelings and in the process questioned the integrity of another organization and indirectly their physician?<br /><br />This isn't the first and certainly won't be the last time these games are played. I think we all know the script. Player/Coach says/does something outrageous, questions and opinions ensue, it is later revealed it was "gamesmanship" and player/coach takes offence to anyone that believed their lie. Yawn<br /><br />Just my opinion, but I think there is a "good taste line" when it comes to "gamesmanship". Whether or not Recchi crossed that line? To each their own.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-39933574051062431282011-02-10T21:43:00.004-05:002011-02-10T22:38:34.645-05:00Why Fisher trade transcends hockey in OttawaSeptember 1999. Alexei Yashin decides he won't be honouring his contract and Sens management decides that a 19 year old centre will be forgoing his final year in Sudbury to take his spot. So yes, Sens fans, the most selfish player in club history helped launch the career of arguably the most selfless.<br /><br />My simple take. Fisher's hefty contract expires after 2 more seasons when he'll be 33, and the chances of the Sens being a Stanley Cup contender before then are remote. This trade makes sense from a hockey standpoint.<br /><br />However, after doing the show today I decided to look back on just what Mike Fisher meant to hockey fans here in the Ottawa area. Sure, they appreciated his work ethic and rugged style of play, but it's Mike Fisher the person that really made a connection.<br /><br />I know Mike just from covering him over the years. We're not friends. Just two people that know each other through work. When I was hospitalized for a few weeks a number of years ago I received a card and Fisher sought me out to see how I was doing. When our friend Buzz passed away, there was Mike sending in emails to our shows supporting everyone at Team 1200.<br /><br />Those are just a couple personal stories I can pass along, but I know there are litterally thousands of others scattered throughout our community. So even if the trade makes "hockey sense", that's why we received some phone calls and emails from irate fans saying they would not be renewing their season tickets. That's why Bryan Murray said he felt something in the pit of his stomach as he was finalizing the trade. I could list the many charities Fisher supported and appearances he made over the years, but this picture from 2007 (and the story behind it) pretty much sums up who Mike Fisher is and why so many fans are having a tough time letting go. All the best Mike.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fanpop.com/spots/ottawa-senators/links/374706" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Elgin Fraser with Mike Fisher" src="http://images.fanpop.com/images/image_uploads/Elgin-Fraser-with-Mike-Fisher-ottawa-senators-374706_375_375.jpg" width="375" height="375" /></a>Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-64341431540536854052011-02-07T08:01:00.003-05:002011-02-07T08:14:04.873-05:00We'll see if Burke stays trueIn light of Phil Kessel's comments yesterday. Here's what Leafs G.M. Brian Burke offered NHL live in June 2009 when asked about the Sens and Dany Heatley:<br /><br />"When you have players come ask you for a trade, I tell the players 'don't finish that sentence,' because once you ask, I'm going to move you, If a player wants out, you're darn right I'm going to move you. I'm not kissing anyone's ass to play in my town, so to hell with you, don't finish the sentence. My second rule is if I hear about this, you're not going anywhere."<br /><br />"For a player to pop off and say he wants out or leak it, in my mind you are now no longer interested in your team. If you've done that you've handicapped them, you've handcuffed your GM."<br /><br />"As long as you are on that team, you owe them to maximize the asset, and once you've taken that step, sorry I don't accept that."<br /><br />We'll see. There could be a little spin doctoring to come today.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-68902139810905755432011-01-21T07:16:00.000-05:002011-01-21T07:18:00.118-05:00CFL Expansion Draft FormatCourtesy of CFL Director of Communications Jamie Dykstra, the differences between the 2002 Renegades expansion draft and the one that will be used for the new expansion team. <br /><br />First off. The draft this time will happen about a month earlier than in 2002.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Quarterbacks:</span><br /><br />2002: Member clubs could protect two quarterbacks http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifon its roster.<br /><br />Now: Member clubs will be able to protect one quarterback on its roster.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Through the Canadian Draft:<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span><br /><br />2002: Ottawa did not have the option of selecting Redshirt Juniors in the CFL Canadian Draft in the year preceding its return (2001 Draft)<br /><br />Now: Ottawa will select in rounds one, two, three and four of the CFL Canadian Draft in the calendar year preceding the year it begins play, possibly 2012<br /><br />2002: Ottawa was given priority for the 2002 CFL Canadian Draft, meaning they held the first selections of each round. Ottawa also received a bonus selection prior to the start of the draft.<br /><br />Now: Ottawa will have the first pick in every round of the CFL Canadian Draft in the calendar year in which it begins play, possibly 2013.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Import Draft</span><br /><br />2002: Member clubs protected 9 imports.<br /><br />Now: Member clubs will be able to protect 10 imports.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Non-Import Draft</span><br /><br />2002: Member clubs protected 7 non-imports in the first round and 6 non-imports in the second round.<br /><br />Now: Member clubs will be able to protect 6 non-imports in the first round and 6 non-imports in the second round.<br /><br />(Member clubs may be able to protect additional non-imports if Ottawa selects a quarterback, punter or kicker from its roster)<br /><br />2002: In the second round of the non-import draft, Ottawa had the opportunity to choose a team’s second round draft pick in the upcoming Canadian Draft instead of a roster player.<br /><br />Now: Throughout both rounds of the non-import draft, Ottawa must select roster players.<br /><br />This eliminates the opportunity for the Ottawa franchise to choose draft picks instead of known roster players.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Negotiation List</span><br /><br />2002: The Ottawa franchise had the opportunity to choose between a negotiation list draft and establishing its own 40-man negotiation list.<br /><br />Now: Ottawa may operate a Negotiation List in advance of its return to the league. Ottawa’s interim Negotiation List can include a maximum of 25 players, including a maximum of 10 quarterbacks.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-52514836843680918392010-12-10T10:26:00.009-05:002010-12-13T09:50:55.805-05:00From Winning to HopePlayers, coaches and management don't believe it's over, nor should they, there's "lots of hockey left" and as professionals you never say never. However, fans and media alike can look at recent history to help predict the future. After doing just that, here on December 10th, it's a pretty safe bet to say: "turn out the lights, the party's over." At least in terms of the Senators making the playoffs this season. That's not an opinion, but a statistical fact. <br /><br />We are more than one-third through this season. Since the end of the lockout in 2005 that brought the three point game, only one eastern conference team has come back to make the playoffs after being more than six points out on December 10th. The 2007-08 Capitals were dead last and eight points out and went on to win the southeast division.<br /><br />If you're a fan that draws hope from the autumn of 2006 when the Sens were floundering but rebounded all the way to a stanley cup final, I've got more bad news. That team was 15-15-1 on December 10th, just one point out of 8th. This edition is seven points out sitting in eleventh. Apples and oranges.<br /><br />It's time for this team to reassess and come up with a new plan. A plan that focuses more on the seasons beyond this one. It's time to start identifying those that will be members of this organization next year from those who won't. You don't totally gut things and give up on this season, but you have to realistic about the odds and starting planning for a rebound in 2011-12. <br /><br />Attendance has been waning. I'm in the camp of those that believe that the average fan is starting to become apathetic because he/she doesn't know what this team is supposed to be. Organizations have to be selling one of two things; winning or hope. A re-tool or maybe even a re-build has to be coming. The fans in "Hockey Country" could use a little hope.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-48093083480056573952010-12-06T16:02:00.004-05:002010-12-06T16:11:20.679-05:00Beer League HockeyFuther to our discussion about beer league hockey on today's show, a listener sent this is in. I originally saw it a couple of months ago but is just as funny no matter how many times you watch it. There is some "colourful" language so viewer discretion is advised.<br /><br />http://www.xtranormal.com/watch/7192553/Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8806695801926311947.post-56787665060388779622010-11-06T13:35:00.004-04:002010-11-06T14:09:41.893-04:00Shean Donovan to hang 'em upGot a text from Shean Donovan this morning as to why he left his Professional Tryout with Syracuse. "Missed the kids, knew it would be a long road and had enough. Time to move on"<br /><br />-951 games,112 goals 241 points, 705 PIMs<br />-49 playoff games, 6 goals, 6 assists, 12 points, 39 PIMs<br /><br />1995 World Junior Gold Medalist<br />1997 World Senior Gold Medalist<br /><br />At 951 games Donovan sits 309th on the all time games played list. One ahead of Tomas Steen and one back of Tommy Albelin and Todd Bertuzzi. Of those 951 games only a handful early in his career were played as a top 6 forward. Donovan knew what he was and knew he had to earn his place in the league year after year. To play almost 1000 games as mostly a 4th and occasionally 3rd line player is a testament to his attitude and tenacity. Something teammates around the league appreciated and respected everywhere he played. <br /><br />Upon returning to the Ottawa area to play for the Sens three years ago, Donovan could often be seen in what he calls his hometown, Carleton Place, lending his NHL name to worthy causes with little publicity. Something I'm sure will continue in retirement.<br /><br />Congrats on a great career Dono.Steve Lloydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09542029414372153828noreply@blogger.com0