To cut costs, the Stars have eliminated their prospect camp this summer.
However, several key players will come in to do a week's worth of training starting Monday with strength and conditioning coach J.J. McQueen.
Those players are: James Neal, Matt Niskanen, Jamie Benn, Scott Glennie, Philip Larsen and Austin Smith.
There are no on-ice activities planned, but my guess is they will be on the ice at some point or another.
_Mike Heika
Many of you have asked what defenseman are out there and available to be traded, and I have a few targets.
But I think patience is the key word here.
If you look at some of the great trades, they happen when a team gets frustrated, when a player somehow gets crossways with a club, when a team finds it needs cap space to make another move. Thus the term, ``keeping your powder dry.''
You never know when a great player might become available, so the Stars might have to ride this roster into next season, let the young D get some experience, and then reassess what they have.
But, here are a few persons of interest:
Tomas Kaberle _ The Maple Leafs are looking to get tougher and create cap space, and Kaberle is on the market. He is 31, he can play 25 minutes a game, and he has two years left on his contract at $4.25 million. He is pretty much a 50-point guy minimum right now, and he had a breakout year in 2005-06 when he had nine goals and 58 assists for 67 points while logging 28 minutes a night. All in all, the guy is a pretty good skilled defenseman who would fit what the Stars need in terms of budget.
Mark Streit _ The Stars love this guy. He's 31, but has played in the NHL for only four seasons (he's from Sweden). He was such a power play specialist that he was used as a forward part-time when he played in Montreal two seasons ago. The Islanders signed him as a free agent last summer to a five year deal that averages $4.1 million a year, and he excelled. He had 16 goals and 40 assists (10 and 19 on the power play) in 74 games while logging 25 minutes a game. He was plus-6 on a team full of minuses. The problem is the Islanders like him, and need a skilled defenseman. You would have to blow them away with an offer of young kids and draft picks.
Dion Phaneuf _ It's easy to speculate that since the Flames now have Jay Bouwmeester, they would be willing to trade Dion Phaneuf. That makes some sense. Phaneuf has almost the same contract as Bouwmeester (five more years at $6.5 million a year). He is a big hitter who has a mean streak and plays 26 minutes a game. He had a down year last year, but he had 17 goals and 43 assists the year before. The Flames are against the cap and could use the space (and some scoring wingers), but I don't think the Stars can work this deal unless their finances turn around or they are moving contract back the other way.
John-Michael Liles _ He's small (5-10) and overpaid ($4.2 million for the next three seasons). He is more of a power play QB (18 minutes a game) than a No. 1 defenseman. But he's probably available if you want him.
Bryan McCabe _ I think it's fair to ponder whether McCabe will still be useful when the Panthers finally get good. He's 34, and he has had injury issues the past two seasons (54 and 69 games). But he's big (6-2, 220), logs a lot of minutes (between 23-28 a game) and is pretty good on the power play (15 goals, 24 assists last season). He has two years left at $5.75 million and the Panthers are looking for kids.
Barret Jackman _ With Erik Johnson and Alex Pietrangelo needing more minutes for development, Jackman might be somebody you could snag. He has three years left on his deal at $3.625 million, he's only 28, and he's a very solid player. He logs about 22 minutes a game and last year had 4-17 _ 21 with almost no power play time. There are injury issues there, but he played 82 games last season. He's not exactly what you need, but my guess is you could get him.
So, that should get you started. Anything you like? Anything I missed?
_Mike Heika
TSN is reporting the Stars have signed Karlis Skrastins to a two-year deal at $1.375 million a year.
He was one of the guys I thought they would be targeting, and he's a steady defenseman who can eat up minutes.
I think you could say he's like Mattias Norstrom _ not as good, but offers many of the same attributes.
He was part of those Colorado teams that beat the Stars twice in the playoffs in the first round.
I like him. He's about to turn 35. He's a good, solid, experienced defenseman. He will help Stephane Robidas keep the kids calm.
_Mike Heika
Stars wait on Day 1 of free agency
The Stars' version of Waiting for Gustavsson entered Act II on Wednesday. While Dallas continued to wait to see if free agent Swedish goalie Jonas Gustavsson would select them as the team with which he will sign, the drama increased on the first day of free agency when three key goalie targets were signed by other teams. ``It's a bit frustrating, but we have confidence in the player and we want to see if he picks us,'' said Stars general manager Joe Nieuwendyk. ``We're hoping the decision will come (Thursday).'' Gustavsson, 24, led his team to the Swedish Elite League championship in the spring and visited four NHL teams last month _ Dallas, Toronto, Colorado and San Jose. He was expected to select his team by Tuesday, but still has not decided. In the meantime, three goalies who were on the Stars' radar signed with other teams on the first day of free agency. Craig Anderson signed a two-year deal with Colorado for an average of $1.8 million season (likely taking the Avalanche out of the race for Gustavsson), Ty Conklin signed with St. Louis for two years at $1.2 million a season, and Scott Clemmensen signed with Florida for three years at $1.2 million per season. ``There are some good players who are gone, but you just have to stay patient and believe it's going to work out. Nieuwendyk said he talked to defenseman Sergei Zubov on Wednesday morning, and that he also will remain patient with the defenseman who is recovering from hip surgery. Zubov is studying the free agent market, but will probably bring any offer he receives back to the Stars. ``I expect him to do that,'' Nieuwendyk said. ``I think he'll keep us in the loop, and I think he definitely considers us an option.'' Of the players who played in Dallas last season and became unrestricted free agents, only Steve Begin was signed. The checking line forward signed a one year deal with the Boston Bruins for $850,000.
_Mike Heika
The Stars sign Jere Lehtinen to a one-year deal.
Here is their press release:
FRISCO, Tex. - Dallas Stars General Manager Joe Nieuwendyk announced today that the club has re-signed right wing Jere Lehtinen
"We are extremely pleased to welcome Jere Lehtinen
Lehtinen, 36, skated in 48 games for Dallas last season, notching eight goals and 16 assists for 24 points with eight penalty minutes. He missed 34 games in 2008-09 due to injury, but skated in his 800th career NHL game on Feb. 23 vs. San Jose, becoming just the fifth Dallas Star to do so.
Dallas' fourth-round selection (No. 88 overall) in the 1992 Entry Draft, Lehtinen has skated in 817 career NHL games, all with the Stars, registering 497 points (239 goals, 258 assists) and 202 penalty minutes. In 108 career Stanley Cup Playoff games, he has earned 27 goals and 22 assists for 49 points with 12 PIM, and was a member of the Stars' 1999 Stanley Cup championship club.
Among Stars franchise leaders, Lehtinen ranks third in game-winning goals (37), fourth in games played (817), seventh in goals (239) and power play goals (76) and ninth in scoring (497). His seven seasons of 20-or-more goals are third all-time in franchise history, trailing only Mike Modano
Lehtinen is one of just three players in NHL history to have won the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league's best defensive forward three times (also Bob Gainey, 4, and Guy Carbonneau, 3). He has represented Finland at the Winter Olympics on four occasions (1994, 1998, 2002, 2006), winning a silver medal in Torino in 2006 and a bronze in Nagano in 1998. He also led his home country to a gold medal at the 1995 World Championships.
_Mike Heika
Hockey USA will announce today the 30 or so players who are invited to the U.S. Olympic Orientation camp just outside of Chicago Aug. 17-19. And Mike Modano said he will be one of those announced.
``Yeah, they called me and invited me,'' he said. ``I think I might be the last of the old guys.''
Team USA GM Brian Burke is expected to announce at 11 a.m. today a group of younger players that doesn't include the group of older players who have helped carry the team for two decades.
``It's a big goal to play in Vancouver, so I'm excited to get the chance,'' Modano said of the 2010 Olympic Games that begin Feb. 12 in Vancouver. ``But I know this is just the first step, and they'll be making the choices based on how we play during the regular season.''
Modano, 39, has been a longtime participant in Team USA activities, including the 1988 World Juniors, the 1991 World Cup of Hockey (silver medal), the 1996 World Cup of Hockey (gold medal), the 1998 Olympics, the 2002 Olympics (silver medal), the 2004 World Cup of Hockey and the 2006 Olympics. _Mike Heika
The Swedish paper Aftonbladet is saying he has narrowed his choices to Toronto and Dallas and will probably choose today.
His agent said it would be before July 1, so that leaves today and tomorrow.
We'll see. The Stars say they have not heard anything.
_Mike Heika
Here's the press release:
MONTREAL -- The Dallas Stars selected four players and made a draft pick trade on day two of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, comprised of rounds two through seven. The Stars drafted five new prospects, total, at the draft, including number one pick Scott Glennie with the eighth overall selection on Friday night. Dallas traded its seventh round pick in today's draft (the 189th overall selection) to San Jose in exchange for the sharks' sixth round pick in 2010.
Overview of Saturday's selections by the Stars:
Round Two Pick (38th overall): With their first pick of day two, the Stars selected right wing Alex Chiasson with the 38th overall selection. Chiasson played this past season with the Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League (USHL), leading the team in scoring with 17 goals and 33 assists for 50 points in 56 games. He was selected to the USHL All-Rookie Team and played in the 2009 USHL All-Star Game. Chiasson plans to play at Boston University next season. He is a native of St. Augustin, Quebec.
Alex Chiasson Profile: http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=5202&tab=prf
NHL.com story on Alex Chiasson: http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=426154
What they're saying about Alex Chiasson:
"He obviously has real good size (6-4, 187-pounds), and he is a physical power-type of player. He's aggressive, big and goes hard to the net. We saw him early last season and he's really committed to becoming a good player. His skating has improved quite a bit under J.P. Parise in Des Moines, and its gone from a concern into a positive for him. He's good down low and makes good decisions. He'll go to Boston University and we are really excited about his potential." - Stars scout Bob Gernander
"Alex Chiasson is a big player, he has tremendous size. He has shown vast improvement since the beginning of the season and therefore his quickness has improved and is evident on the ice and in his statistics. He's got a competitive attitude and has great potential as a professional hockey player." - J.P. Parise, Des Moines Buccaneers Head Coach and General Manager
"Alex shows a real strong competitiveness and willingness to go to the net. He takes the hit to make the play, yet at the same time can stickhandle in a telephone booth and find the open man. Night in, night out, he comes to play -- the effort is always there." - Jack Barzee, NHL Central Scouting
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Round Three Pick (69th overall): Dallas selected right wing Reilly Smith from St. Michaels of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL). Smith ranked second on his team in scoring with 27 goals and 48 assists for 75 points in 49 games (1.53 points-per-game). He led the team with four shorthanded goals. Smith plans to play at Miami of Ohio next season.
What they're saying about Reilly Smith:
"He is a high-energy skilled forward who competes very hard and is just a worker. He plays bigger than he looks, and he is definitely going to fill out at Miami Ohio. He definitely brings what we are looking for." - Stars scout Jimmy Johnston
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Dallas did not have a fourth round selection, as it was traded to Tampa Bay in February of 2008 as part of the Brad Richards deal.
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Round Five Pick (129th overall): The Stars drafted center Tomas Vincour, a Czech Republic native who played with the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL last season (49 games, 17 goals and 19 assists for 36 points). He also played for the Czech Republic at the 2009 World Juniors, recording three assists and a plus-two rating in six games. Vincour lists making that team his most memorable hockey moment so far.
Tomas Vincour Profile: http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=5713&sort=lastName
NHL.com story on Vincour: http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=424941
What they're saying about Tomas Vincour:
"He projects to be a power forward. He's a big, strong kid who skates and shoots the puck very well. He plays up and down and a physical brand of hockey and he's very effective. He uses his skating to drive the net and he takes the puck to the danger areas." - Edmonton Head Coach Steve Pleau.
"He is a big power winger with very good hands. He is really a two-way guy that uses his size extremely well. He was the first pick in the European Draft and is in his second year in North America. He's a good young player with a lot of potential." - Stars scout Shane Churla
"I would say I like North American hockey better than Europe. In Europe it's more of a technical game, but in North America it's a more physical game, which I like better. I think since I played in Edmonton it helped my draft ranking. Playing in Edmonton made me a different person than I was before. It was a tough move for me because I left my whole family, my friends and my girlfriend back home, but it made me a stronger person and it turned out well in the end." - Tomas Vincour
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Round Six Pick (159th overall): Dallas selected left wing Curtis McKenzie from the Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). A native of Golden, BC, McKenzie played in 53 games for Penticton last season, scoring 30 goals and 34 assists with 90 penalty minutes.
Curtis McKenzie Profile: http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?csid=622681#&intcmpid=hdr-scrbrd-draft
What they are saying about Curtis McKenzie:
"He is an 'in-your-face' heart and soul type of winger who loves to play in traffic. He shows some good finish and will pay the price to get the job done. He is going to play at Miami next year. - Stars scout Dennis Holland
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Dallas Stars 2009 NHL Entry Draft Selections
Round (overall) Player Team Height/Weight 2008-09 Stats
1 (8th) RW Scott Glennie Brandon (WHL) 6-1/177 lbs 55 gp, 28 g, 42 a, 70 pts, 25 pim
2 (38th) RW Alex Chiasson Iowa (USHL) 6-4/187 lbs 56 gp, 17 g, 33 a, 50 pts, 101 pim
3 (69th) RW Reilly Smith St. Michaels (OJHL) 6-0/157 lbs 49 gp, 27 g, 48 a, 75 pts, 44 pim
4 (99th) **No Pick - Traded to Tampa Bay in Feb., 2008 as part of Brad Richards deal.
5 (129th) C Tomas Vincour Edmonton (WHL) 6-2/203 lbs 49 gp, 17 g, 19 a, 36 pts, 23 pim
6 (159th) LW Curtis McKenzie Penticton (BCHL) 6-2/192 lbs 53 gp, 30 g, 34 a, 64 pts, 90 pim
7 (189th) **No Pick - Traded to San Jose at today's draft in exchange for the Sharks' Sixth Round Pick in 2010.
Here's the Stars press release on Scott Glennie:
MONTREAL - The Dallas Stars selected right wing Scott Glennie with the eighth overall pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, held at Montreal's Bell Centre.
Glennie, 18, spent this past season with the Brandon Wheat Kings of the Western Hockey League (WHL), leading the team in points-per-game average at 1.27 (28 goals and 42 assists for 70 points) in 55 games. In 12 playoff games, he helped the Wheat Kings reach the WHL Conference Finals, finishing tied-for-fourth in assists (15) and tied-for-ninth in points (18).
"We're very happy about selecting Scott Glennie with the eighth overall selection," said Stars Director of Amateur Scouting Tim Bernhardt. "Scott brings a lot of speed and skill. He has very good vision and sees the ice well. He's a right wing but he's also a centerman so we don't know what he'll play down the road. His coach said he will play center next year and he's played a lot of center before. But we're very pleased that we were able to draft Scott."
The 6-1, 177-pound native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, represented Canada at the 2008 Ivan Hlinka Memorial (winning gold) and also participated in the 2008 World Under-17 Challenge, winning a bronze as a member of Team West.
Glennie finished fifth in rookie scoring with 58 points (26 goals, 32 assists) in 2007-08, after teaming up with fellow rookie linemates Brayden Schenn (No. 4 rank by Central Scouting in this draft) and Matt Calvert (selected by Columbus, 127th overall in 2008) as one of the highest rookie scoring lines in recent WHL history (193 combined points).
Prior to playing for Brandon, Glennie scored 31 goals in 38 games with the Winnipeg Wild Midget AAA and was named to the league all-star team as well as selected as the team MVP.
Scott Glennie Statistics
Season Team League GP G A Pts. PIM
2007-08 Brandon WHL 61 26 32 58 50
2008-09 Brandon WHL 55 28 42 70 25
Scott Glennie Profile at NHL.com: http://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectdetail.htm?dpid=5306&sort=finalRank
What They're Saying About Scott Glennie:
"A highly skilled offensive forward who can set it up and also finish. Great passer and shooter. He needs to improve the defensive and physical side of his game to create more room for himself at the next level. Strength will come naturally with maturity." - International Scouting Services "He is a good hockey player, highly skilled with natural goal scoring instincts," said a veteran NHL scout from an upper echelon Western Conference team. "I've seen him play on the wing and in the middle, but I think I like him down the middle because of his creativity."
"Combines nice hands and strong work ethic. Tremendous improvement in skating and is now one of the fastest players in the draft. ... Plays with energy and isn't afraid to mix it up in the heavy going or take a hit. Will need to improve overall strength. ... Good penalty killer and smart defensively." - Red Line Report 2009 Draft Guide "Glennie is a very determined player with a non-stop motor. He is fearless in his approach and thrives in going into the dirty areas to dig out pucks for his teammates. Glennie often comes out with the pucks and has the vision to spot his teammates going to the slot. His ability to play in traffic is top-notch.." - McKeen's 2008 Draft Guide
Rounds two through seven of the NHL Entry Draft will take place on Saturday, beginning at 9 am (CT). Coverage will be on NHL Network and on NHL.com, as well as DallasStars.com.
New Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk is up in Montreal, and while he will allow Les Jackson and Tim Bernhardt to run the draft, he will still be plenty busy.
First of all, he will be around a lot of the Stars' personnel and will be getting to know them.
Secondly, he will be around a lot of the NHL personnel, and will be getting to know them.
And thirdly, he will be around a lot of agents, and will be getting to know them.
Nieuwendyk said he plans to talk to the agents for Sergei Zubov (Jay Grossman) and Jere Lehtinen (Don Baizley) and get their feelings on what it will take to sign each of the unrestricted free agents. I called both agents this week and neither returned calls, so maybe they will return them after they talk to Nieuwendyk.
My take is that each will be given a fairly low offer and each will turn it down. Each will then have the ability to shop themselves in free agency after July 1. I've talked to Lehtinen and I know he wants to continue to play, and he wants to continue to play in Dallas. I have not talked to Zubov, but indications from the Stars is he wants to play and he wants to play in Dallas.
But everyone would probably be smart to wait. Zubov still is recovering from hip surgery, and probably needs to proved he's 100 percent healthy. Lehtinen also is hobbled, although I think the Stars know more what they have in him.
But the bottom line is free agency is going to be a real unknown this year, and players and teams need to see what the spending parameters are going to be. Waiting is more risky for the players, because they could find out that a lot of teams will use up their budget early in the process, but I think Zubov and Lehtinen feel that the price could go up slightly to return to the Stars.
Waiting is essential for the Stars, because they need to better judge the health of the two players and they need to see what the cost will be and whether it fits into their budget.
Nieuwendyk said he has a feeling for what the budget is, but he's not saying right now. My guess is the potential sale of the Rangers has a lot to do with it. Tom Hicks has always spent money on the Stars, and if he does sell the Rangers, then it would make sense that he would want the Stars to be succesful and profitable. To do that, he would increase the budget, in my opinion.
If he does not sell the Rangers, there's a very good chance the team can't afford to spend much more than $42 to $45 million this year. Hicks keeps saying that each organization has to be profitable within itself, but I think there still is a relation to the other organization. That said, the Stars are studying every part of the organizational budget and making cuts. Their summer development camp has been pared down to having a few prospects come in instead of the full weeklong group of 20 or so.
When I asked Nieuwendyk if he feels confident enough to make trades right now, he said yes.
``I mean we've been talking about the personnel every day for three weeks, so I think I have a pretty good idea what I'm doing,'' he said. ``I'm not saying we're making any trades, but do I feel confident in making one if it comes up? Sure.''
Both Nieuwendyk and Jackson indicated they would probably stay at No. 8 and make a pick there.
Nieuwendyk said that after studying the roster, he feels the Stars are in pretty good shape. He said that if the team can sign Jonas Gustavsson, it would be a great addition and it would check one more thing off the to-do list. But he said he doesn't think there is that much to do.
``I like our team,'' he said.
Peter Maher, the Calgary play-by-play man, reported last week that the Stars could hire former Flames GM Al Coates as an assistant GM. Nieuwendyk wouldn't confirm or deny, but the rumor makes sense. Coates was in Toronto with Cliff Fletcher, but was let go when Brian Burke came in as the new GM.
So there still is plenty for Nieuwendyk to do.
He's holding his cards pretty close to the vest, so we'll see if he has any surprises out there.
_Mike Heika
I believe the Stars have changed their draft strategy in the past few years.
Les Jackson and Tim Bernhardt have told me that you can't just draft only skilled players _ that an organization needs balance _ and I do agree to some extent. Mark Fistric and Nicklas Grossman are very good players, and the Stars needed to acquire them via the draft.
Goalies also provide a tricky question (although more and more they seem to be available via trades or waivers).
So I'm not saying you should draft only skilled players.
But I just think it makes sense to draft mostly skilled players.
As I pointed out today, you can find Brian Sutherby's all over the place. I look back now and think that even the loss of B.J. Crombeen wasn't that big a deal, because you could add a host of veteran checkers for the same money Crombeen was making.
Sutherby also provides insight into the trade value of a checker. The Ducks received a prospect (David mcIntyre) and a sixth round draft pick for him. And Sutherby was a first round pick of the Capitals back in 2000.
But what do you think the Stars could get right now for Loui Eriksson or Jamie Benn or James Neal? If they wanted to make a move for a No. 1 defenseman, they would have the firepower to do that.
And that's why drafting skill is so important.
This is a game of asset acquisition and asset management _ and skill is worth more in this game. It cost more to acquire it if you don't have it (in free agency and trades) and it's worth more if you are looking to make a trade.
So my draft strategy is take as much skill as you can and try to hit as many homeruns as you can. So what if you miss out on a checker in the fifth round, you can always fill that hole cheaply.
Am I too short-sighted here or do you agree with this strategy?
_Mike Heika
I wasn't able to talk to free agent goalie Jonas Gustavsson, who was visiting North Texas Thursday.
Gustavsson, 24, is picking from four NHL teams with which to sign a free agent contract.
He has already visited Colorado and San Jose and still has Toronto left. He has not spoken to the media in any town, because his agent Joe Resnick knows how difficult it could be to handle the media during a visit to Toronto.
However, Resnick did speak while the two attended the game against Houston at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington and said that Gustavsson is looking at this decision in the long term. He is an undrafted player, but he still falls under the rookie contract rules (just like Fabian Brunnstrom did last year). Gustavsson can sign a one-year deal and can make no more than the rookie maximum of $2.25 million (bonuses included). Brunnstrom made about $1.7 million last season, although his cap hit was $2.25 million.
Still, this is more than a one-year contract, Resnick said. Gustavsson could become a restricted free agent in 2010-11, which means the team he signs with still controls his rights.
``He's looking at team philosophy and where the team is going and what they are thinking,'' Resnick said. ``This is a decision that's not a one-year decision, it's a long-term decision. We're looking at years two, three, four and five, that's our game plan.''
Gustavsson went 12-1 in the playoffs in leading Farjestad to the Swedish Elite League championship this spring. He posted a 1.03 GAA in the playoffs with a .966 save percentage.
Still, Resnick said Gustavsson knows the transition could be tough.
``It's tough to be a goalie and it's tough to start off and play 50 games,'' Resnick said. ``He's a very good goalie, but I think the ideal situation is he plays 20 or 25 games, and then moves forward from that.''
_Mike Heika
The Stars took Jonas Gustavsson around town today, touring AAC and the training facility in Frisco.
He is at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington tonight, where he met former President George W. Bush.
Then, Gustavsson and Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk each threw out a first pitch before the game against the Astros.
He's expected to watch the game from a suite.
_Mike Heika
Former Stars captain Derian Hatcher announced his retirement from hockey Monday.
Here is his meeting with the Philadelphia media.
Q: Has it ever been suggested that you become a medical marvel and make a come back?
Hatcher: "I have been asked that. I had my knee replaced to better enhance my lifestyle, to go out there and be able to run around with the kids a little bit and play soccer and stuff like that. Let's make that clear. That's why I had my knee replaced. Initially, I did talk to the doctors about this, to be honest with you. Basically, everything they said was 'no way.' You are better off with a hip---trying to come back from an artificial hip than with a knee. There is no physical way you can rise to that level of competition and play that I would have to rise to."
Q: How tough is that knowing mentally that you still want to play?
Hatcher: "It is tough. I think kind of at the end of last year (2007-08) it was looming. Originally, coming into camp last year I thought that I could probably come back to play. I think that Paul Holmgren thought that, too. As time progressed, it just hit a wall and got worse, worse and worse. But I think having those 3-4 months of being around the organization, being around the guys it really did make it a lot easier for me. It wasn't just cut and dry. It is almost as if I was weaned into it."
Q: What was your family's reaction?
Hatcher: "It's kind of funny. They all wanted me to keep playing, especially the boys. The boys play hockey and enjoy going to the games and all that good stuff. I just told them that I can't. That's the bottom line. Now I am happily coaching them."
Q: Being the only American born player to captain a Stanley Cup championship team, does that stand as your greatest NHL accomplishment?
Hatcher: "Probably, because that one still stands. But I have had the chance to play in two Olympics, I won a Stanley Cup, won a World Cup, played in an All-Star game, got to play with my brother Kevin and got to play with him in a few of those events as well. I have seen the world through hockey. I have been across Europe, I have been to Japan. It is hard to prioritize what one (would be his greatest accomplishment) but I think that one would have to be it. I still kind of quietly like that."
Q: Any message to the fans of Philadelphia?
Hatcher: "I just want to thank them for their support. I know we had a rough year that one year but we bounced back. I wish I could have played this year to help the team win but I couldn't. I look forward to working with the Philadelphia Flyers. I believe that they are definitely headed in the right direction and they aren't that far away. That's my message to the fans, that they are headed in the right direction and I believe that they aren't that far away."
Q: Do you know exactly what you are going to be doing?
Hatcher: "Paul Holmgren's exact words to me are that we are going to have to 'wing it' a little bit, which is fine with me because that's how I am, too. They will give me a schedule and I will kind of work around it and go to places when I can. They want me to go to Glen Falls a few times and there are a few draft picks now that they want me to go see and see who they draft this year. It will be scouting and I will run the rookie camp later this summer. I will be here in the summer when rookie camp starts (July 6) and when the regular training camp starts. Paul had mentioned that he would like me to watch games at home with him and just stuff like that. We are just going to see where this takes me."
Q: Did you get a telephone call from (Ken) Hitchcock at all?
Hatcher: I have not talked to Hitch. I had a few phone calls and a few texts but I haven't talked to good old Hitch yet."
Q: Do you have any plans of coaching behind the bench?
Hatcher: "That's kind of a funny question because five years ago if anyone was to ever ask me if I would do that I would say 'no way.' But now, I am at the point where I would probably give it some thought. That is why I think that in the position I am in now is a great spot. Paul described it to me somewhere between coaching and management. Hopefully over the next year or two I will be able to decide what way I'd like to go."
_Mike Heika
Just talked to Marc Crawford and he confirmed what he said on the Fan 590 Monday _ that Stu Barnes will stay on as an assistant coach and that Andy Moog will remain the goalie consultant.
Barnes retired as a player after the 2007-08 season, and went through a lot of learning in his first year as an assistant coach last year. While Crawford said they still are in the development stages of forming the coaching staff, my guess is Barnes moves from the pressbox (where he was the eye in the sky) down to the bench.
I think the Stars will go from a four-man coaching staff to a three-man coaching staff, so we'll see if Moog is a candidate to return to the eye in the sky position.
Crawford is working out of his home in Vancouver and talked to Barnes yesterday in Seattle (Barnes' summer home) and is supposed to talk to Moog (who summer in Penticton, B.C.) Wednesday in Vancouver, so there still is some planning to do.
Crawford said he will not be hiring longtime friend Mike Johnston, who served as his assistant coach in both Vancouver and Los Angeles, running the defenses there. Johnston took the job as the head coach and GM of the Portland WinterHawks last season, and will continue in the capacity.
No tips on who will run the defense for the Stars next season, but that is a huge hire for this team. _Mike Heika
The Stars are going to announce today that they have selected Glen Gulutzan to coach the Texas Stars.
He's 37 and has had a great career coaching the Las Vegas Wranglers in the ECHL.
The Stars were able to watch him first-hand in coaching against Idaho in the Kelly Cup Finals in 2008
His assistant will be Paul Jerrard, who was the assistant in Iowa and has been in the Stars system as a coach since 2005. He also was a long-time player in the Stars' minor league system in Kalamazoo. _Mike Heika
I just got off the phone with Dave Tippett, and he was philosophical.
``It's just what you sign up for as a coach, and I don't think you can ever let it get to you,'' he said. ``In this business, you have to focus on the job at hand and do it to the best of your ability. Then, if you are moved on, you have to see that as an opportunity. When one door closes, another one opens.''
Tippett said he will head to his summer home in Noirthern Minnesota today and will try to take a step back from the situation and breathe a little bit.
He's been going hard since the end of the season with his stint as an associate coach on Team Canada at the World Championships and then the GM change when he got back.
He would not say if he was talking with other teams, but you can be sure he will rocket to the top of a few coach-search lists. Possible head coaching openings exist in Minnesota, New Jersey and Calgary.
As for his seven years in Dallas, Tippett said he was blessed to be here.
``It's a wonderful state, a wonderful city and a wonderful organization, I was really lucky to spend as much time as I did here,'' he said. ``I mean, my daughters grew up there, and I made a lot friends there, it was just a great place for me. Honestly, I wouldn't trade it for the world. It was a great time.''
One of the reasons I couldn't report the news on Wednesday was because Tippett asked Joe Nieuwendyk to wait a day to release the news, and Nieuwendyk said he would honor that wish. As such, he made everyone in the organization promise that they would say anything. Our sourcing policy is a source has to agree to be a source, and nobody would meet that standard.
But as broken up as Tippett was Wednesday, he seemed fine on Thursday morning.
``Any time you have a challenge, it test you, and you learn about yourself,'' Tippett said. ``Experiences are good for you in life. They make you a better coach. They make you a better person.''
When I asked if he had any specific regrets _ maybe the year that they lost out to Anaheim and the Ducks went to the Stanley Cup Finals _ he had an interesting reply.
``Yeah, that I didn't win six Stanley Cups,'' he said.
That was Tippett's philosophy. He stayed in the moment and he wanted to win it all every year. And he will probably take that sam philosophy going forward.
_Mike Heika
It's official.
Here's the press release:
FRISCO, Tex. - Dallas Stars General Manager Joe Nieuwendyk announced today that the club has hired Marc Crawford as the 20th head coach in franchise history, and relieved Dave Tippett of his head coaching duties.
The Dallas Stars will hold a press conference on Thursday to formally introduce Crawford as Head Coach. It will take place at 2 pm (Central Time) at American Airlines Center, in the interview room directly across from the Stars' dressing room. Media may park in Lot F (north side of arena) and enter through the main Administration Doors on that side of the building. Both Nieuwendyk and Crawford will be at the press conference.
Crawford, 48, is the 16th winningest coach in NHL history with 470 career victories, and has also coached the 15th most games in league history at 987, over 13 seasons with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Vancouver Canucks and Los Angeles Kings. He has posted a 43-40 all-time mark in Stanley Cup Playoff games, including the 1996 Stanley Cup championship with Colorado, as well as five division titles and six seasons of 40-or-more wins. Crawford remains the youngest recipient of the Jack Adams Trophy as NHL Coach of the Year (1995 with Quebec, at the age of 34).
"I am very excited that we have been able to secure Marc Crawford as head coach of the Dallas Stars," Nieuwendyk said. "Marc is a winner with extensive experience in this league, and I am confident he will get the most out of our hockey club. I look forward to working with him as we prepare for the 2009-10 season and beyond. Dave Tippett did a very good job in his six seasons here with the Stars, however it was my feeling that our team needed a new direction moving forward."
Crawford remains the all-time winningest coach in Vancouver Canucks history with 246 wins over seven seasons from 1999-2006. The Canucks made the playoffs in four of his last five seasons as head coach. Crawford began his NHL coaching career with Quebec in 1994 and, after the Nordiques relocated to Denver in 1996, became the third-youngest coach in NHL history to win the Stanley Cup.
The native of Belleville, Ont., served as the head coach for Team Canada at the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano, Japan, finishing first in its pool and advancing to the semifinals before losing to the eventual champions, Czech Republic. Crawford spent three seasons as the head coach of St. John's in the American Hockey League from 1991-94, where he won the 1993 Louis A.R. Pieri Memorial Award as AHL Coach of the Year, and two campaigns with the Cornwall Royals of the Ontario Hockey League from 1989-91.
Prior to beginning his coaching career, Crawford was selected in the fourth round (No. 70 overall) of the 1980 Entry Draft by Vancouver, and skated in 176 career NHL games, all with the Canucks, recording 19 goals and 31 assists for 50 points. He made his NHL debut with Vancouver during the 1981-82 season, which he split between the Canucks and the Dallas Black Hawks of the Central Hockey League.
"I'm very excited and honored to have been selected as head coach of the Dallas Stars," said Crawford. "This is a winning organization and I look forward to building upon the success that it has earned over the years. This club has a great deal of potential, and I'm eager to get to work in restoring the franchise to among the league's elite."
Tippett, 47, posted a record of 271-162-59 in six seasons (2002-2009) as head coach of the Stars. He led the club to two division titles (2002-03 and 2005-06), playoff appearances in five of his six seasons, including five straight from 2002-03 through 2007-08, and the Western Conference Finals in 2008.
Tippett was hired as the 19th head coach in franchise history on May 21, 2002 from the Los Angeles Kings, where he had spent the previous three seasons as an assistant coach. He had previously served as general manager/head coach of the Houston Aeros in the International Hockey League, leading the club to the 1999 Turner Cup championship.
Additionally, Mark Lamb was relieved of his duties after six seasons as an assistant coach with the club. The remainder of the coaching staff will continue to be evaluated.
CRAWFORD'S CAREER COACHING RECORD
REGULAR SEASON PLAYOFFS Season Club League Gms W L T/OL Gms W L 1989-90 Cornwall OHL 66 24 38 4 6 2 4 1990-91 Cornwall OHL 66 23 42 1 - - - 1991-92 St. John's AHL 80 39 29 12 16 11 5 1992-93# St. John's AHL 80 41 26 13 9 4 5 1993-94 St. John's AHL 80 45 23 12 11 6 5 1994-95^ Quebec NHL 48 30 13 5 6 2 4 1995-96* Colorado NHL 82 47 25 10 22 16 6 1996-97 Colorado NHL 82 49 24 9 17 10 7 1997-98 Colorado NHL 82 39 26 17 7 3 4 1998-99 Vancouver NHL 37 8 23 6 - - - 1999-00 Vancouver NHL 82 30 29 23 - - - 2000-01 Vancouver NHL 82 36 28 18 4 0 4 2001-02 Vancouver NHL 82 42 30 10 6 2 4 2002-03 Vancouver NHL 82 45 23 14 14 7 7 2003-04 Vancouver NHL 82 43 24 15 7 3 4 2005-06 Vancouver NHL 82 42 32 8 - - - 2006-07 Los Angeles NHL 82 27 41 14 - - - 2007-08 Los Angeles NHL 82 32 43 7 - - -
NHL TOTALS 987 470 361 156 83 43 40
# Louis A.R. Pieri Memorial Award winner (AHL Coach of the Year)
^ Jack Adams Award winner (NHL Coach of the Year)
* Stanley Cup champions
After six years at the helm, head coach Dave Tippett has been fired by the Dallas Stars, according to the TSN Web site.
All right, I thought I would start you off with an intriguing player who could go around 38th _ and who has a great local story.
He is Chris Brown, who lives in Flower Mound and is a product of Texas hockey.
Brown played last season for the US National Team Development Program and is committed to play at the University of Michigan next season.
He has size (6-2, 195). He is a right-handed wing who can play both sides. And he's a great story.
Now, the last part probably shouldn't enter into the picture, but the Stars probably have plenty of information on Brown and that does mean they should have a pretty good idea on whether or not he would be worth it to take at 38th..
Mock drafts have him everywhere from 33rd to 61st, so there is no consensus on the guy, but he seems like the perfect pick for the Stars at 38th if he's still around.
So is this just a journalist looking for a great story or could Brown be a guy the Stars should target at No. 38?
_Mike Heika
I know you guys have been asking for draft information for some time, but I wanted to do some research and I wanted to time this so that it would be hitting the blog in a manner that would roll right into the draft.
So I am going to give you a draft primer today and then start counting down on prospects until I get to No. 1 on the day of the draft. I will probably do the top 40 (or 38) to include the Stars' second round pick (and create some talking points right off the bat) and then maybe do two or three a day. I'll start tomorrow morning.
So here is what we have right now. The Stars will pick 8th in the first round and 38th in the second round. They hold all of their picks except for their fourth rounder (To Tampa Bay in the Brad Richards deal) and they have no duplicate picks in any round. The actual position number of picks past the second round will be determined by the NHL when the playoffs end after adding compensatory picks for certain teams. So, six picks in seven round right now for the Stars. The draft will be held June 26-27 in Montreal.
There is a clear feeling that the top three picks in the draft are a notch above, with goal-scoring center John Tavares, towering (6-6) Swedish defenseman Victor Hedman and scrappy center Matt Duchene going off the board by the fourth pick.
There is some thought that you can then toss a blanket over the fourth through 10 players, and that all of those teams will get a decent pick. There are others who believe that centers Brayden Schenn and Evander Kane will be the next two players picked, and the scramble will start at No. 6.
The Stars will have a few interesting decisions to make. First, what role does new GM Joe Nieuwendyk play in the process? Les Jackson has done all of the homework in setting up the draft. Jackson says Tim Bernhardt (director of amateur scouting) is in charge of the selection process, and that he and Bernhardt will confer on whether it is necessary to move up or down in the draft to get the player needed.
Here's Jackson on the thought process of moving up:
``Honestly, I don't see us having what it would take to move into the top three, so my first impulse is to say we would wait and believe we'll get a pretty good player at No. 8.''
And on moving down:
``That's a bit of a dangerous game. If you like a player and that player is available where you are, I think you take him. It's really tough to predict what these teams around you are going to do.''
Because of that, Jackson, Bernhardt and the scouts are putting together their draft board and will probably follow it to a tee. As such, they will rank the players and then react to what happens in front of them.
They'll discuss the need for a specific player, but the thought right now is they'll stick to the board.
That could spark some interesting debate among the fans. Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson is a left-handed left wing from Sweden who is projected to go fifth or sixth but could be available at No. 8. The Stars are stocked full with left-handed left wings, including: Brenden Morrow, James Neal, Loui Eriksson (he's playing the right side), Fabian Brunnstrom (he's playing the right side) and Jamie Benn.
So do you really want to add another left-handed left wing like Paajarvi-Svensson to that mix?
Jackson said yes you do if he's the better player.
``There are ways to work those things out,'' he said. ``I've always been a fan of getting the best player, because then you really can use those assets down the road and go out and get a player who might be an immediate fit.''
That said, he agreed when asked if picking this high (the highest the Stars have selected since 1996) allows a team to select for need.
``I think when you see a lot more kids entering the league at 18 or 19, that, sure, you can say a player selected this high has the chance to help your parent team more quickly,'' he said. ``So, if you want to make that argument, I can agree that you would be tempted more to change your philosophy and take someone who fits what you might need in your organization.''
The Stars could get both need and best player available simply because that's the way the draft falls.
On the radar as possible picks in the No. 6 to No. 10 range are defensemen: Jared Cowen, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Dmitry Kulikov. Cowen is a big (6-5, 216), physical defenseman in the mold of Derian Hatcher. He's coming off of knee surgery, but the Stars do not see that as any problem in the future. Ekman-Larson is a smaller defenseman (6-0, 165) who is a great skater with good hockey sense. He is a bit of a longer term project. Kulikov is a nice mix of the two with decent size (6-1, 195) and good skill. He is not seen as a Sergei Zubov type, but he could be a very good all-around defenseman for years to come.
The Stars also like players such as D Ryan Ellis (5-10, 173) and RW Jordan Schroeder (5-8, 168), but the size of both pushes them down to the teens on most boards. Ellis is a fantastic power play QB who helped lead Windsor to the Memorial Cup championship. Schroeder had 13 goals and 32 assists in 35 games in his freshman year at the University of Minnesota.
While it's nice to talk about Ellis and Schroeder, I think the Stars will stay where they are and end up with one of the defensemen. I think they will put their board together and wait for the best guy to fall, and my guess is it's one of the D-men.
I still think they need to make a trade for a top-level defenseman for next season, but I don't think the No. 8 pick will be a part of that deal. I think they take care of the draft, collect their assets, and then start studying defensemen later in the summer. They might even wait to see if there is a free agent bargain out there before they consider making a trade.
That said, with Nieuwendyk in charge and Sergei Zubov possibly able to return next season, maybe they just wait things out.
So there is what I have right now. Don't ask the Stars to reveal their board or which defenseman they like better. They're not going to do it, but I'm open for other questions.
_Mike Heika
New Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk will be interviewed by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman today on Bettman's radio show on XM and Sirius Radio.
Here's the press release:
Dallas Stars General Manager Joe Nieuwendyk will be the guest on Thursday's edition of NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman on SIRIUS XM Radio.
Nieuwendyk has won the Stanley Cup three times, with three different teams; Calgary Flames (1989), Dallas Stars (1999) and New Jersey Devils (2003). Of the 20 seasons he played in the NHL, seven were spent in Dallas (1985-2002). During his post-NHL career, Nieuwendyk has served as a Special Consultant to the General Manager of the Florida Panthers and Special Assistant to the General Manager for the Toronto Maples Leafs. Nieuwendyk was named General Manager of the Stars on Sunday, May 31.
NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman broadcasts live on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice (XM Channel 204 and on SIRIUS Channel 208 as part of the "Best of XM" programming package) and NHL.com. The show will re-air on SIRIUS XM Radio, with archived shows available for download via podcast on NHL.com.
The show encourages fans to submit questions via phone and e-mail. To submit questions to NHL Hour call 1-877-645-6696 or e-mail nhlhour@nhl.com
The Stars on Tuesday announced the signing of both Matt Climie and Brent Krahn to one-year, two-way contracts.
That's surprising to many because Richard Bachman alreadly is under contract, so there's some thought that one of these guys will be the NHL backup next season. I don't think that's the plan.
I think what the Stars are planning to do is use two of these goalies on their AHL team in the Austin area and one with the Idaho Steelheads in the ECHL. Bachman needs to be playing no matter where he is, so if he does not win the AHL No. 1 job, he will probably become the No. 1 in Idaho.
I still believe the Stars are looking for an NHL backup, and their first plan right now is winning the recruiting war for Swedish goalie Jonas Gustavsson. If they don't, my guess is they will go after a veteran NHL backup.
The other three goalies under contract will then battle for position in the minors.
_Mike Heika
Hey, since we have this wonderful blog at our disposal, and since I will be out at the press conference with new Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk at 3 p.m. today at American Airlines Center, I will ask what you guys want to know.
So, if you had one question with Nieuwendyk today, what would it be?
_Mike Heika
By MIKE HEIKA
Joe Nieuwendyk is the right man at the right time, Stars owner Tom Hicks said Sunday after announcing the former Stars player is the new general manager of the team.
Hicks said he reassessed the idea of having two men as co-GMs _ the only team in pro sports with that setup _ and decided to reassign Brett Hull to the position of Executive Vice President and Alternate Governor and Jackson to Director of Scouting and Player Development.
That allows Nieuwendyk, who was a rising star in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, to come in and take over as the sole voice in the GM chair. Nieuwendyk, 42, retired in 2006 after a 20-year NHL career and has served in front office of the Panthers and Maple Leafs.
``He's intelligent, he's experienced, he's meticulous, he's somebody who people have compared to Bob Gainey,'' Hicks said. ``He's had the opportunity to see how the job is done with two different teams, and he has been a player on three different teams that have won Stanley Cups, so I believe he's more than prepared for this opportunity.''
Nieuwendyk won the Stanley Cup with Calgary in his second full NHL season in 1988. He was traded to the Stars in 1995 as the first big move of Hicks' ownership, and helped the Stars win the Stanley Cup in 1999 and get back to the finals in 2000. He was traded to New Jersey in 2002 and helped the Devils win the Stanley Cup in 2003.
Nieuwendyk finished his career with 1,126 points (564 goals and 562 assists) in 1,257 games. He also had 116 points in 158 career playoff games. He led the playoffs in goal scoring in 1999 and won the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player.
``I am ready for this opportunity,'' Nieuwendyk said in a press release. ``The Dallas Stars have built a winning tradition over the years, and I want to help continue that legacy.''
Hicks, who came up with the idea of two GMs in 2007, stopped short of saying the idea failed.
``It can be complicated, and there is something to be said for a single voice,'' Hicks said. ``There's probably a reason more people don't try (two people).''
But he added that he believes this move allows the Stars to use the talents of all three men.
``Les's first love is scouting, and he's spectacular at it, so he definitely helps us there,'' Hicks said. ``And we need Brett to help find new ways to produce money for this team. He'll work with me and (team president) Jeff Cogen, and I've always seen him as a man with strong ideas, so we're hoping he'll have ideas how to help us there. It's a big job for all of us.''
Hicks, who last week put the Texas Rangers up for sale, said he very much wants the Stars to remain a part of Hicks Sports Group.
``I made it clear last week that we want to hold onto this team and continue the tradition we have built here,'' he said. ``This is a strong step in that direction. Joe understands the tradition, and also can push us forward.''
The new CHL team in Allen went local with its first two hires, putting Dwight Mullins as head coach and general manager and Bill McDonald as assistant head coach and director of hockey operations.
Here's the press release:
Allen, Texas) - The Allen Americans, the newest Central Hockey League (CHL) franchise, announced today the staff that will guide the team's on-ice efforts during their inaugural 2009-10 season. American's President Steve Duchesne made the announcement.
The staff will be comprised of Dwight Mullins as the team's head coach and general manager and Bill McDonald as the team's assistant head coach and director of hockey operation.
"We are excited to have two quality individuals directing our hockey operations," said Americans President Steve Duchesne. "Dwight brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to coaching our hockey club, and Bill compliments that with his experience and winning ways. Both have had tremendous success together in the past and we feel confident in the direction they will lead the Allen Americans."
Mullins is well known in the Dallas/Fort Worth area formerly playing in the CHL with the Fort Worth Fire (1994-97) captaining them to a CHL Championship (1997). He began his coaching career in the 1998-99 season as the assistant coach for the Fort Worth Brahmas in their inaugural campaign (helped lead the Brahmas to the Western Professional Hockey League finals). Most recently, Mullins coached the North American Hockey League's Texas Tornados to their ninth consecutive playoff appearance.
The Calgary, Alberta native's relationship with the Dallas Stars (NHL) was instrumental in the American's previous announcement that positions the team as the primary 'AA' affiliate of the Stars. Mullins was selected by the Stars as the 90th overall selection in the 1985 NHL Draft. He has also been a guest coach with the Dallas Stars Summer Draft/Rookie Development Camp for the past 6 years.
He currently resides in Lantana, Texas with his wife Christy and daughter Macy.
McDonald brings more than 19 years professional experience to the staff serving in various areas including coaching, management and as a player. His 15 year coaching career, the Thunder Bay, Ontario native has led his clubs to six final's appearances winning four championships. His 626 career games coached (second) in the CHL and 319 career wins (fourth) rank him among the league's all-time leaders. Winning championships in three different leagues, McDonald was the head coach of the 1997 CHL Champion Fort Worth Fire that Mullins served as the captain. McDonald was also the head coach of the inaugural season of the Brahmas, the same team that Mullins served as the assistant coach.
The Americans begin play this fall calling the brand-new Allen Event Center home. More team announcements are scheduled for this week. For more information, contact the Americans at (972) 912-1000 or visit the team's website at www.allenamericans.com
_Mike Heika
Well, those few weeks on the beach were put to good use for Mike Modano.
The Stars' all-time leader in just about everything announced today he will be coming back for next season. Modano is already under contract for next season, so as far as actual transactions, nothing changes.
But it's an important decision for the Stars and for Modano. He will turn 39 on June 7, and he is coming off a year where he looked tired at times. So how can he address that next year?
``I don't think it was just me, I think it was the whole team,'' Modano said. ``I think the injuries forced us into some situations that we wouldn't normally be in, and that's something that I believe will be different next season.''
When asked if Marty Turco being pushed to do too much was a good example, Modano said yes.
``Yeah, I think that's a good one,'' he said. ``You look at that, and that was part of the problem all of last season. You go in with a plan, and all of the injuries changed so much. I think if we can be healthy and we can spread the load around, we'll be a much better team.''
Modano said his optimism about next season is one of the main reasons for his return. Well, his optimism about next season and his depression about last season.
``That's not the way you want to go out,'' he said of a 36-35-11 record that left the Stars out of the playoffs for only the third time in the last 15 seasons. ``I just think we're a better team than what we showed, I think we will be a better team next year.''
Modano's decision also helps the Stars in the salary cap. As a player who signed his contract past the age of 35, Modano's full cap hit of $3.45 million will be counted even if he retires, Modano's actual pay for next season is $2.25 million.
He had 15 goals and 31 assists and was minus-15 in 80 games last season. So is this a good move for the Stars? If the team is healthy, I think Modano can fill an important role. I would like to see other players get more time on the power play, and I think that would happen if the team was more healthy.
What's your take?
-- Mike Heika
Brett Jaeger was great in goal with 38 saves, and Jason Deitsch completed a hat trick with an empty-netter with 2:30 left to go, as the Brahmas ripped Colorado, 6-2 in Game 5 and took home the Ray Miron Presidents' Cup 4-1 in the series.
It was complete domination against the CHL's dominant franchise, and a huge accomplishment for the Brahmas, who shut things down a few years ago in Fort Worth and started over in North Richland Hills.
It was a really neat scene here for the fans.
_Mike Heika
Huge surge for Texas.
The Brahmas scored two goals in the first 1:07 of the period, and then pushed it to 4-1 on a dazzling goal by Jordan Cameron.
Colorado bounced back to make it 4-2, but then Grant Jacobsen blasted in a shot from the left wing on the power play to make it 5-2.
It should be an interesting third period. The building is rocking right now.
_Mike Heika
The Brahmas are tied 1-1 after the first period in North Richland Hills.
The Ray Miron Presidents' Cup is in the building, but the Colorado Eagles want to take this series back to Loveland.
The Brahmas lead 3-1 and this is a 2-3-2 series, so Colorado could get the last two games at home if they can push this to Game 6 and then Game 7.
Colorado scored first on a Ed McGrane power play goal, while Texas answered with a Jason Deitsch power play rebound.
Colorado has a 15-9 edge in shots.
_Mike Heika
So who is the league's Most Valuable Player?
It's a tough award, because it usually is given to the best player.
Your finalists are:
Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh
How's that 2010 Russian Olympic Team looking, eh?
Here's the press release
NEW YORK (April 29, 2009) - Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk, Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin and Washington's Alex Ovechkin are the three finalists for the 2008-09 Hart Memorial Trophy, which is awarded "to the player who is adjudged to be the most valuable to his team," the National Hockey League announced today.
Ovechkin was the overwhelming winner of the 2007-08 Hart Memorial Trophy, receiving 128 of 134 first-place votes. Malkin was the runner-up. Datsyuk joins them this season to mark the first time in the 85-season history of the award that all three finalists are Russians.
Members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association submitted ballots for the Hart Memorial Trophy at the conclusion of the regular season, with the top three vote-getters designated as finalists. The winner will be announced Thursday, June 18, during the 2009 NHL Awards that will be broadcast live from the Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Hotel Las Vegas on VERSUS in the United States and on CBC in Canada.
Following are the finalists for the Hart Memorial Trophy, in alphabetical order:
Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings
Though this is the first time Datsyuk has been voted a Hart Trophy finalist, he last season won two major trophies (Selke and Lady Byng) and this season has been voted a finalist for all three awards. No player has won the Hart, Selke and Byng Trophies in the same season. Datsyuk finished fourth in the league scoring race this season, matching his career-high with 97 points while scoring a personal-best 32 goals. He ranked second among NHL players in takeaways with 89, placed third in plus-minus with a +34 rating, and won 56% of the 1,135 face-offs he took.
Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh Penguins
Malkin followed up his break-out 2007-08 season with a dazzling 2008-09 that saw him lead the League in points (career-high 113) and assists (78) while playing in all 82 games for the second straight year. He also led the league with 94 takeaways. Malkin had four four-point games and one five-point game and recorded a career-best 13-game assists streak from Oct. 16 through Nov. 15. His scoring title, which will be rewarded with the Art Ross Trophy, was the 13th in the last 21 seasons won by a Pittsburgh player.
Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals
Ovechkin is vying to become the first repeat winner of the Hart Trophy since Dominik Hasek of Buffalo won in 1997 and 1998. Ovechkin won the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy for the second straight season for again leading the League with 56 goals - the fourth time in his five NHL seasons that he's eclipsed 50 goals. He finished three points shy of becoming the NHL's first repeat scoring titlist since Jaromir Jagr in 2000 and 2001. Ovechkin's 528 shots on goal were the second highest single-season total in NHL history behind Phil Esposito's 550 in 1970-71. His 19 power-play goals ranked second in the League and his 10 game-winning goals ranked third.
History
The current Hart Memorial Trophy was presented to the National Hockey League in 1960, after the original trophy was retired to the Hockey Hall of Fame. The original Hart Trophy was donated to the NHL in 1923 by Dr. David A. Hart, father of Cecil Hart, former manager-coach of the Montreal Canadiens.
Announcement Schedule
The NHL will announce the three finalists for each of its awards daily. The remaining announcement schedule:
Thur., Apr. 30: Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (perseverance and dedication to hockey) Fri., May 1 Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year) Mon., May 4 NHL Foundation Player Award (contributions to charitable causes)
Previously Announced Trophy Finalists
Calder Trophy (outstanding rookie): Steve Mason, Columbus Blue Jackets Bobby Ryan, Anaheim Ducks Kris Versteeg, Chicago Blackhawks
Norris Trophy (outstanding defenseman): Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins Mike Green, Washington Capitals Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings
Lady Byng Trophy (skill, sportsmanship): Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings Zach Parise, New Jersey Devils Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay Lightning
Vezina Trophy (outstanding goaltender) Niklas Backstrom, Minnesota Wild Steve Mason, Columbus Blue Jackets Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins
Frank J. Selke Trophy (top defensive forward): Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings Ryan Kesler, Vancouver Canucks Mike Richards, Philadelphia Flyers
Showing incredible timing, the Brahmas will start the CHL finals on a night when there are no NHL playoff games.
You can join a watching party at the NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills or you can watch at www.nifty-tv.com
Here's the press release:
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (April 29)-The Brahmas and Eagles open up the CHL Finals series tonight in Colorado, and despite the 914 mile distance between the NYTEX Sports Centre and Budweiser Events Center, Brahmas fans are encouraged to attend a game watching party at ZuRoma Bar and Grill to cheer on the Southern Conference Champions for an 8:05 PM faceoff.
During the game, ZuRoma will offer drink specials for all Brahmas fans which include; $2 Domestic Drafts, $3 Import Drafts, $3 Well Drinks and $4 Frozen Drinks. The Brahmas and Eagles have faced each other only once in the regular season resulting in a 4-1 Brahmas victory. Last season, as members of the Northern Conference, Texas lost to the Eagles in a Game Seven of the Conference Finals. This season, the Brahmas are looking for some vengeance as well as their first CHL title.
Brahmas Head Coach Dan Wildfong hopes Texas fans will pack ZuRoma to show their support for the Southern Conference Champions.
"This season has been an incredible year for the team and our fourth line [fans], but it isn't over yet. I hope our fans will turn out in masses to watch Games One and Two at ZuRoma and support the guys on the ice," said Wildfong.
Tonight's game can also be seen on Nifty TV, the free video streaming company provided by the CHL Network. Go to http://www.nifty-tv.com/chl/
Be part of the action as the Brahmas look to win their first championship in franchise history as they host Games Three, Four and Five at the NYTEX Sports Centre beginning this Sunday at 3:05 PM. Game Four is slated for a 7:05 PM start on Tuesday and Game Five (if necessary) will be on Wednesday at 7:05 PM. For ticket information please contact the Brahmas Box Office at (817) 336-4423.
_Mike Heika
He caught a high stick in the left eye Tuesday.
He will heal fine, but not in time to compete in the remainder of the tournament, which ends May 10.
_Mike Heika
The AHL held its Board of Governors meeting and officially approved the Texas Stars as an AHL member for next season.
The deal is pretty unique and it shows how much the league wants this team involved.
Texas is being granted a special exemption that it is a member of the league without an official affiliate and that it will purchase the first affiliate that is available for a move.
That allows Edmonton to keep the dormant Roadrunners (as the Oilers would like to move from Springfield, Mass. after next season) and allows the Texas Stars to get started selling tickets and scheduling games immediately.
Here's the press release:
TEXAS STARS OFFICIALLY GRANTED AN AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE FRANCHISE Cedar Park, TX - It is official. The Texas Stars were formally granted a limited membership to begin play in the American Hockey League for the 2009-10 season, it was announced today by the AHL. The AHL Board of Governors approved the membership today at their league meetings in Chicago.
The move is the anticipated next step towards the Texas Stars beginning their first season this fall at the beautiful Cedar Park Center. The limited membership is conditioned on the club completing the purchase of an AHL franchise within one year. The Texas Stars will be the primary development affiliate of the National Hockey League's Dallas Stars, as the roster will be made up of Dallas' top prospects and draft picks.
"This is an exciting day for the Texas Stars, even though this formal awarding of an AHL franchise had been anticipated," said Texas Stars President Rick McLaughlin. "We'd like to thank the American Hockey League and its group of owners in helping make the Texas Stars a reality. The entire area of Cedar Park and Greater Austin has embraced us and we are looking forward to playing hockey in just over five months."
The Dallas Stars will hold a Rookie Camp in Frisco, Tex., from July 6-11. Many of the players at the camp will probably see action for the Texas Stars as their development progresses. The Dallas Stars 2009 Training Camp is scheduled to begin on Sept. 11 in Frisco, Tex., followed by the Texas Stars' first-ever Training Camp that will begin on September 22nd in Cedar Park, Texas.
The Cedar Park Center is scheduled to open on September 26th with a major concert event (artist to be announced soon). The building will include 6,800 seats for hockey and 8,700 for concerts and other events, as well as 24 suites and club seats with a private club lounge.
"The Cedar Park Center is coming along very well," said McLaughlin. "We are on schedule and we have every expectation that the building will be finished on time. It will be a beautiful arena and it is very exciting to see it come together. It will be a terrific building for hockey and all other types of events."
The full Texas Stars AHL schedule will be released later this summer.
A lot of you have asked for some goalie talk, so here are a few answers for you.
Marty Turco did not reach the triggers for his no-trade clause this season, so he can be traded.
Also, while his cap hit is $5.7 million, his actual contract cost is only $5.4 million, so that does make the deal a little better.
Bottom line, I think if the Stars wanted to move him, there would be probably be interest (Philadelphia, for example, has no goalie signed). However, the Flyers have $50 million committed to next season already, and that will be the problem with a lot of teams.
We'll see. My guess is the team is committed to Turco for next season and would hope that he will have a great year as he faces unrestricted free agency. But if the Stars win the Jonas Gustavsson sweepstakes and a team wants to trade an expensive defenseman for Turco, I could see that as an option.
As for Gustavsson, his mom is having some health issues and he is considering all of his options going forward. Farjestad has given him a May 15 deadline to make a decision about going to the NHL. There are some who believe he might stay in Sweden another year because of his mother's health. He would then be able to negotiatie a better contract next summer because of his age.
If he decides to sign this summer, I believe the Stars are still right in the mix with Toronto.
But I believe all recruiters are giving him some time and space right now.
_Mike Heika
Niklas Backstrom of the Minnesota Wild, Steve Mason of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins are the three finalists for the 2008-09 Vezina Trophy, which is awarded "to the goalkeeper adjudged to be the best at his position," the National Hockey League announced today.
The general managers of the 30 NHL clubs submitted ballots for the Vezina Trophy at the conclusion of the regular season, with the top three vote-getters designated as finalists. The winner will be announced Thursday, June 18, during the 2009 NHL Awards that will be broadcast live from the Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Hotel Las Vegas on VERSUS in the United States and on CBC in Canada.
Following are the finalists for the Vezina Trophy, in alphabetical order:
Niklas Backstrom, Minnesota Wild
After nine seasons honing his craft in Europe and two earning increased playing time in the NHL, Backstrom established himself as the Wild's go-to goalie this season, appearing in 71 games. He ranked among the League's top five goaltenders in goals against average (2.33, third), save percentage (.923, fourth) and shutouts (eight, third) and his 37 wins were a franchise record in addition to being the NHL's fifth-highest total. Backstrom established a club record with 149:19 of consecutive shutout goaltending Dec. 31-Jan. 8.
Steve Mason, Columbus Blue Jackets
Mason began his NHL career by winning his first three starts, Nov. 5, 7 and 8, seizing the Blue Jackets' No. 1 goaltender role. Named the NHL's Rookie of the Month for both November and December, he posted a club-record three straight shutouts in late December. Mason finished strong, going 8-2-4 from Mar. 7-Apr.8 as Columbus captured the first playoff berth in franchise history. His 10 shutouts led the League and his 2.29 goals against average ranked second to Tim Thomas' 2.10 for Boston.
Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins
Thomas took his game to a different level this season while backstopping the Bruins to their highest victory (53) and points (116) totals since 1971-72. He led the NHL in goals against average (2.10) and save percentage (.933) while posting a career-high 36 wins. He won a career-best seven straight decisions from Dec. 4-30 and closed the regular season by winning his last six starts. Thomas and Boston teammate Manny Fernandez are the winners of the William Jennings Trophy as the Bruins allowed a League-low 196 goals this season.
History
Leo Dandurand, Louis Letourneau and Joe Cattarinich, former owners of the Montreal Canadiens, presented the trophy to the National Hockey League in 1926-27 in memory of Georges Vezina, the outstanding Canadiens goaltender who collapsed during an NHL game on Nov. 28, 1925, and died of tuberculosis a few months later. Until the 1981-82 season, the goaltender(s) of the team allowing the fewest number of goals during the regular season were awarded the Vezina Trophy.
Announcement Schedule
The NHL will announce the three finalists for each of its awards daily. The remaining announcement schedule:
Tue., April 28: Frank J. Selke Trophy (top defensive forward) Wed., Apr. 29: Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) Thur., Apr. 30: Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (perseverance and dedication to hockey) Fri., May 1 Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year) Mon., May 4 NHL Foundation Player Award (contributions to charitable causes)
Previously Announced Trophy Finalists
Calder Trophy (outstanding rookie): Steve Mason, Columbus Blue Jackets Bobby Ryan, Anaheim Ducks Kris Versteeg, Chicago Blackhawks
Norris Trophy (outstanding defenseman): Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins Mike Green, Washington Capitals Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings
Lady Byng Trophy (skill, sportsmanship): Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings Zach Parise, New Jersey Devils Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay Lightning
The Texas Brahmas and Odessa Jackalopes have had a great Southern Conference finals so far, and they should have a great Game 7 tonight at 7:05 p.m. at NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills.
http://www.brahmas.com/news/articles/index.html?article_id=1128
http://www.star-telegram.com/brahmas/story/1338806.html
Tickets are still available at www.brahmas.com
_Mike Heika
It is called the greatest moment in hockey, and Brahmas fans will get a chance to view a Game 7 Saturday at NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills.
It's not they way the team wanted to draw it up, as this game was forced when Odessa won Game 6 Thursday night, 2-0, in Odessa.
However, this has been a great series, and Game 6 was another great game.
That should make Game 7 a classic.
Here's part of the press release:
Odessa forward Paul Kelly was able to beat Brahmas netminder Brett Jaeger nine minutes into the second p[eriod, for what came to be the game-winner. Odessa's Jean Bourbeau then added an empty-netter, as the Brahmas tried to tie the game late.
Odessa goaltender Juha Toivonen earned his second shutout in the series stopping all 25 Texas shots. Jaeger earned third star honors stopping 28 of 29 shots faced.
Game Seven is scheduled for this Saturday, April 25 at the NYTEX Sports Centre. The puck drops at 7:05 PM. For ticket information please contact the Brahmas Box Office at (817) 336-4423.
_Mike Heika
The NHL today announced the three finalists for the Norris Trophy.
Zdeno Chara, Boston Mike Green, Washington Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit
It should be a heck of a race, as Green had fantastic offensive numbers, Chara led one of the best teams in the NHL, and Lidstrom was again his solid self.
_Mike Heika
Here's the press release from the NHL: Columbus goaltender Steve Mason and forwards Bobby Ryan of Anaheim and Kris Versteeg of Chicago are the three finalists for the 2008-09 Calder Memorial Trophy, which is awarded "to the player selected as the most proficient in his first year of competition," the National Hockey League announced today.
Members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association submitted ballots for the Calder Trophy at the conclusion of the regular season, with the top three vote-getters designated as finalists. The winner will be announced Thursday, June 18, during the 2009 NHL Awards that will be broadcast live from the Pearl Concert Theater inside the Palms Hotel Las Vegas on VERSUS in the United States and on CBC in Canada.
Following are the finalists for the Calder Memorial Trophy, in alphabetical order:
Steve Mason, Columbus Blue Jackets
Designated Columbus' goaltender of the future, Mason's career soared ahead of schedule when he won his first three NHL starts Nov. 5, 7 and 8 to seize the Blue Jackets' net. Named the NHL's Rookie of the Month for both November and December, he posted a franchise-record three straight shutouts in late December during a four-game winning streak in which he stopped 94 of 95 shots. Mason finished strong, going 8-2-4 from Mar. 7-Apr.8 as Columbus captured the first playoff berth in franchise history. His 10 shutouts led the League and his 2.29 goals against average ranked second to Tim Thomas' 2.10 for Boston.
Bobby Ryan, Anaheim Ducks
The second overall selection in the 2005 Entry Draft, Ryan got his first taste of NHL competition by playing in 23 games for the Ducks last season. He built upon that experience this season to lead all rookies with 31 goals and 57 points in only 64 games. Ryan surged in the middle of the season, earning Rookie of the Month honors for January when he scored 11 goals with five assists in 14 games. On Jan. 8 at Los Angeles, he erupted for three goals in 2:21, the third fastest hat trick by a rookie in NHL history. With goals in five straight games from Jan. 17-28 he set an Anaheim rookie record.
Kris Versteeg, Chicago Blackhawks
A speedy winger who excels at both ends of the ice, Versteeg joins teammates 2007-08 winner Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews to become the third Blackhawk in the last two seasons voted a Calder Trophy finalist. Versteeg led all NHL rookies this season with 31 assists as part of the young core that drove Chicago to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. His four shorthanded goals also were tops among League rookies and fourth overall. He recorded points in five straight games (four goals, four assists) from Nov. 14-22. In the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic 2009 on New Year's Day at Wrigley Field, Versteeg scored a goal and assisted on another.
History
From 1936-37 until his death in 1943, NHL President Frank Calder purchased a trophy each year to be given permanently to the NHL's outstanding rookie. After Calder's death, the League presented the Calder Trophy in his memory.
Announcement Schedule
The NHL will announce the three finalists for each of its awards daily. The remaining announcement schedule:
Thur., April 23: James Norris Memorial Trophy (top defenseman) Fri., April 24: Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (skill/sportsmanship) Mon., April 27: Vezina Trophy (top goaltender) Tue., April 28: Frank J. Selke Trophy (top defensive forward) Wed., Apr. 29: Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) Thur., Apr. 30: Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy (perseverance and dedication to hockey) Fri., May 1 Jack Adams Award (Coach of the Year) Mon., May 4 NHL Foundation Player Award (contributions to charitable causes)
_Mike Heika
We have a hot topic for the rolling mailbag, so I thought I would get it to you quickly today.
Q: I sat and watched a few minutes of both the Boston and Chicago games last night. One thing became instantly obvious to me. The Stars could not compete at that level with either team. They don't have nearly the grit to compete with Boston. They would get killed in a series like that. And, as for Chicago, they would have run them out of the building. The skill level of that team is amazing, especially when you consider that as recently as three years ago, they couldn't play with anybody. It speaks volumes about where the Stars really are. This crud about them being a team that could go far into the playoffs if they could only be healthy is myth.
The state of this team can be laid directly at the feet of its coach and management. There is never any accountability for anyone on this team. Only the goalie is open to criticism. The rest get a free pass. I don't think it really matters who they get in the draft or how ready Jamie Benn is. Both will have to fit into a system that does not require excellence. It barely requires attendance. This team is so far off the track, I don't know how it will ever get back. I'm not sure that changing management will even make a difference. That's because, incompetence has been permitted. The blame for their poor play can always be pawned off on someone else. It's a very depressing situation.
Larry G.
HEIKA: Larry, I actually disagree.
The salary cap has created a world where the Stars are not far from being competitive.
Look at the Anaheim-San Jose series.
The Stars played a heck of a game at Anaheim to close the season with pretty much half of an AHL lineup, and it was a win the Ducks really needed. Do you honestly believe that if the Stars were playing San Jose or Anaheim at full strength, they wouldn't be right in those series?
So much would depend on Marty Turco, but I believe he would be a much better player if the team in front of him was much better. I also believe that Brenden Morrow has a way of getting the best out of Turco, and he would make a huge difference in the attitude and accountability of this team if he was healthy.
Would they have match-up problems with Boston and Chicago? Yes, definitely. But so will San Jose, and they won the Presidents' Trophy. Boston is a good team with a GM who probably had the best off-season in hockey. Chicago is a young team built on five years of high drafts. They are two very tough teams. So if you are trying to build the perfect NHL team and are frustrated the Stars have not done that (while not drafting higher than 25th for a decade, I might add), I understand. But to say this team is in horrible shape when it has a solid group of veteran players (Morrow, Richards, Ribeiro, Turco, Robidas, Ott) and some very good youth (Neal, Eriksson, Brunnstrom, Grossman, Niskanen, Daley, Fistric), I think that's an over-exaggeration.
If you want to change the coach and go with someone more strict, I'm fine with that. If you want to reduce the country club atmosphere, I'm fine with that (I think that will happen simply because of the economic situation surrounding owner Tom Hicks). Those are important changes, and they could make the franchise better. But the NHL is a balanced league now, and the teams that get hot at the right time are the teams that win.
If I'm making a guess about the second round, I would guess Chicago loses to Vancouver. So, then, should the Blackhawks panic? What if the Capitals go out in the first round? Are they built on sand?
I understand the belief that things need to change, and I appreciate your passion for that change _ and I get your point that believing in the people in charge will only bring more mediocrity. I think many in your camp may be right. We have seen Minnesota stick with mediocrity and say they believe in consistency. We have seen Nashville stick with mediocrity, and say that it believes in consistency. And both now are questioning the path of consistency. So, yes, change can be a good thing.
But I have also seen Florida and Ottawa and Los Angeles and Phoenix and the Islanders spin their wheels with new coaches and new GMs and new goalies, so change for the sake of change is not always good.
Finding the right formula is the toughest thing about building a winning franchise, and simply saying a team is bad and will never get good is the safest argument in any sport. The Stars made the Western Conference finals last season, and I have arguments with people who say Anaheim and San Jose were not tough enough opponents, that the Stars folded against Detroit. They give this organization no credit for accomplishing something pretty darned impressive _ and doing it as a low seed while playing on the road. How can you look at that playoff run and say it means nothing, that it was lucky.
It's the same with Marty Turco. Many say he will never win a Stanley Cup. That's an easy argument to make, but you can say it about Nabokov or Luongo or Kiprusoff _ until they actually win something. To say the only real goal is a championship, and that the people in charge fail if they do not win a championship, well you'll be right 29 times out of 30 each season is you make that prediction for your team.
Sports is a great debate, and I think those who argue the Stars need major changes could absolutely be right...but they also could be wrong.
That's a bit of a cop out, but that's the NHL today. You build a team you think can compete, you hope for health and good luck, and you are what you are at the end of the season. This team was a Western Conference finalist last season, and would have been a competitive team this year if it was healthy. That's my take, anyway.
_Mike Heika
By that, I mean that he just pops up in the middle of the biggest events ever.
He's in the box seats when the Red Sox win the World Series.
He's front row at a Bruce Springsteen concert.
And tonight he scores the overtime game-winner for the Penguins on a 5-on-3 power play.
3-2 Penguins over the Flyers, and they lead the series, 2-0.
I wonder if the guy can play ping pong?
_Mike Heika
The Odessa Jackalopes won a 2-0 game Thursday in Odessa to tie the CHL Southern Conference finals series with the Brahmas on Thursday.
Game 5 will be Saturday at NYTEX Sports Centre at 7:05 p.m.
The series is turning into quite a goaltender battle. Brett Jaeger was again solid for the Brahmas (stopping 31 of 32), while Juha Toivonen returned to net for Odessa and pitched a shutout with 18 saves. Toivonen, who missed Games 3 and 4 with an injury, is now 6-0 in the playoffs.
The game was tied until Paul Kelly scored for Odessa in the third period. Odessa then added an empty-netter.
_Mike Heika
If you want to see some high school hockey tonight in person,
The AT&T Metroplex High School Hockey League has its championships on Wednesday in Farmers Branch, with two games (6:45 pm the Silver Championship - Bishop Lynch vs. Arlington Martin, and 8:30 pm the Gold Championship - Southlake Carroll vs. Flower Mound).
The state high school championships will be in Austin this weekend.
_Mike Heika
They made me predict the entire Stanley Cup playoff bracket, so now it's your turn.
I did a ton of research on the playoffs for a couple of projects, and then I just flew through my picks in about 10 minutes.
I'm already regretting them, but here they are.
EAST
Boston d. Montreal in 5 Washington d. New York in 6 New Jersey d. Carolina in 7 Pittsburgh d. Philadelphia in 6
Second round
Boston d. Pittsburgh in 6 Washington d. New Jersey in 7
Conference finals
Washington d. Boston in 6
WEST
San Jose d. Anaheim in 7 Detroit d. Columbus in 6 Vancouver d. St. Louis in 6 Chicago d. Calgary in 5
Second round
Chicago d. San Jose in 6 Vancouver d. Detroit in 6
Conference finals
Vancouver d. Chicago in 7
Stanley Cup Finals
Washington d. Vancouver in 6
What are your predictions?
_Mike Heika
It was like opening Al Capone's vault.
Islanders keep first pick and nothing else changes.
Probably justice.
Dallas will pick eighth.
_Mike Heika
If you're looking for a hockey fix on Tuesday night, the Brahmas are playing in Odessa and will have a game watching party at NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills.
Here is the press release:
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (April 14)-The Brahmas have gone jackalope hunting in Odessa for Game Three and Four in the Southern Conference Finals, but that shouldn't keep you home as ZuRoma Bar and Grill at the NYTEX Sports Centre is hosting game watching parties beginning at 6 PM for all Brahmas fans for Game Three (tonight) and Game Four (Thursday).
During the game, ZuRoma will offer drink specials for all Brahmas fans and distribute door prizes during the intermission. Drink specials include: $2 Domestic Drafts, $3 Import Drafts, $3 Well Drinks and $4 Frozen Drinks. The Brahmas and Jackalopes are tied 1-1 in the best of seven series and will look for their second victory tonight when the puck drops at 7:05 PM. Game Four is set for Thursday night and will start at 7:05 PM. As Brahmas Head Coach Dan Wildfong and his team play at the Ector County Coliseum, he hopes many Brahmas fans will attend ZuRoma and back Texas the NYTEX Sports Centre.
"We had many great fans attend and cheer us on at ZuRoma in our first playoff series, so I look forward to hearing about the great outcome for the Conference Finals. I have no doubt that our outstanding fans will turn out and root us on," said Wildfong.
Join the Brahmas and their run for the Ray Miron President's Cup this season as the Brahmas host Game 5 of the Southern Conference Finals this Saturday at the NYTEX Sports Centre at 7:05 PM. For playoff ticket and 2009-2010 season ticket information please contact the Brahmas Box Office at (817) 336-4423. _Mike Heika
Guy Carbonneau stood outside the locker room at the Dr Pepper StarCenter in Frisco Monday, waiting for son-in-law Brenden Morrow and occasionally checking his cel phone.
Lots of messages, lots of interest.
The former Stars center still is under contract to the Montreal Canadiens after being fired as their head coach, but that probably won't last for long.
The Minnesota Wild is looking for a new coach. The Colorado Avalanche fired GM Francois Giguere (also formerly of the Stars) and will probably soon fire coach Tony Granato and allow the new GM to pick his own head coach.
Carbonneau says he is in no hurry.
``I want to coach, I think I will be able to,'' he said. ``If not in the summer, then next year. There are always coaches moving, that's how this league is.''
Carbonneau was asked if he would also be open to a job somewhere in the front office?
``I'm open to everything,'' he said. ``But I really enjoy coaching. I really want to continue doing that.''
He will almost assuredly be a head coach in the NHL by next season. I personally think he fits in perfectly in Minnesota. GM Doug Risebrough said the search may take two months there. Still, you have to believe Carbonneau will be on the short list.
_Mike Heika
I asked a few people yesterday if there were any lessons to take from the Sean Avery situation, and there were some interesting responses.
Center Brad Richards said:
``That situation is on an island. It's not going to happen again. I am not going to sit here and bash Sean, I never have. I don't think it was right, right from the start. I don't think he felt comfortable and I know he wasn't accepted into the team the way other players have been. There are reasons for that. He's done things that would cause that. There are a lot of different things going on with Sean. I don't think you're going to find another situation like that. It works for him in New York because I think he is very comfortable there and that's where he needs to be. It's not the fault of anybody. It just wasn't going to work out."
Winger Steve Ott disagreed slightly, inferring that there could have been more input from the players before the signing:
``It's tough. I think that's more for the general managers. Hopefully, when it comes to re-signing guys or bringing in guys, everybody from the core group to the coaching staff to the general managers is a part of that. ''
He said he felt the players did their part after the signing:
``We went over and above to do anything to make him a Dallas Star.''
When asked about the communication between the GMs and the coaches on both the Avery situation and the Tobias Stephan situation, Stars coach Dave Tippett said he felt the lines were open:
``Everybody had the intention that it was going to work, and it just didn't work. When we signed Avery, it was a situation where we thought it was going to enhance our team, and it ended up going the other way. Tobias Stephan came in and we thought he was going to have a better training camp than he did...he didn't. And those are situations where you look at your personnel coming in and you try to make it work, but those were just two situations where it didn't work.''
I think Richards' nailed it as far as lessons learned _ Avery is a unique situation. But I also think there does need to be more communication with the players going forward in situations like this. I know free agency is hectic, but you should go into like a draft where you have your preparation done ahead of time.
_ Mike Heika
I think before the Stars can seriously consider what to do with the coaching staff, what to do with the current free agents and what to do with the future free agents, they have to resolve the situation at the top.
The General Manager position is the most important on the team right now, and owner Tom Hicks has to decide if his co-GM experiment is working. Many inside believe there needs to be one voice. But who will that one voice be?
So I ask you:
1. Should the Stars keep Les Jackson and Brett Hull together as co-GMs?
1. Should Jackson do the job by himself?
1. Should Hull do the job by himself?
1. Should someone else do the job by himself?
_Mike Heika
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