Shutouts and Comebacks For Saturday Night

1st Star: Mike Fisher, NSH: OT goal

2nd Star: Pekka Rinne, NSH: 31 saves

3rd Star: Patrik Berglund, STL: 1 goal

Pekka Rinne bounced back from a rough first outing and Mike Fisher kept his hot streak alive with the game winning goal in overtime as the Predators beat the Blues. St. Louis got their first goal of the season by Patrik Berglund, while Brian Elliott stopped 26 shots.

1st Star: Corey Crawford, CHI: 18 saves, shutout

2nd Star: Marcus Kruger, CHI: 1 goal

3rd Star: Marian Hossa, CHI: 1 goal

The lowly Blue Jackets saw the lack of offense as they only mustered 18 shots on goal against the Blackhawks, making it an easy night for Corey Crawford. Marian Hossa, Marcus Kruger, and Viktor Stalberg scored for the Blackhawks in the win. 

1st Star: Niklas Backstrom, MIN: 31 saves, shutout

2nd Star: Dany Heatley, MIN: Game-winning goal

3rd Star: Ryan Suter, MIN: 1 goal

The new era in Minnesota started with a shutout, as Niklas Backstrom posted 31 saves in the winning effort. Big free agent Ryan Suter notched the insurance goal late to seal the victory. 

1st Star: Antoine Vermette, PHX: 1 goal, 1 assist

2nd Star: Martin Hanzal, PHX: 1 goal

3rd Star: Derek Roy, DAL: 1 goal

After being down 0-2, the Coyotes picked up where they left off last season with a come-from-behind victory over the Stars with two goals 1:30 apart from each other. Mike Smith made 31 saves in the victory. 

1st Star: Nikolai Khabibulin, EDM: 28 saves

2nd Star: Jordan Eberle, EDM: 1 goal

3rd Star: Daniel Sedin, VAN: 1 goal

Last second heroics, as Ryan Nugent-Hopkins scored with five seconds left in regulation as the Oilers beat the Canucks, despite Roberto Luongo making 32 saves in the losing effort. 

Nabby Knocks Off Pens, Chimera Hurrah, Datsyuk Dazzles

Evgeni Malkin injured in the 3rd period

1st Star: Evgeni Nabokov, NYI: 36 saves

2nd Star: John Tavares, NYI: 1 goal, 1 assist

3rd Star: P-A Parenteau, NYI: Game-winning goal

The semi-rivalry met up for opening night, but the Isles got the best of this round as John Tavares and P-A Parenteau netted the goals for the Islanders, helping Evgeni Nabokov-- who had 36 saves in the winning effort. Brandon Sutter got the lone goal for the Pens, who had to play without Evgeni Malkin for the third period after getting his legs tangled up in a scrum. 

1st Star: Jason Chimera, WSH: 1 goal, 1 assist

2nd Star: Adam Henrique, NJ: 1 goal, 2 assists
3rd Star: Mike Ribeiro, WSH: 2 goals

Jason Chimera celebrates his OT winner

Without Zach Parise, the Devils faired well, but were downed by Jason Chimera's overtime winner for the Capitals. Newcomer Mike Ribeiro score two in his Washington debut, while Michal Neuvirth stopped 48 the start. Martin Brodeur showed his true stopper side with 47 saves of his own, as the Devils got three points from Adam Henrique.

1st Star: Pavel Datsyuk, DET: 2 goals
2nd Star: Mike Fisher, NSH: 1 goal, 1 assist
3rd Star: Todd Bertuzzi, DET: 1 goal, 1 assist

Pavel Datsyuk scored two goals, while Todd Bertuzzi had a goal and an assist in the Red Wings win. The Predators had to swap goalies after the first period as Pekka Rinne only stopped seven of the 10 shots he faced. Mike Fisher was the lone bright spot for the Preds with a goal and assist.

Pavel Datsyuk's first of two goals

David Poile and the Ghost of Offer Sheets Past

David Poile wasn't going to let history repeat itself.

No, it's not recent history with Ryan Suter leaving the Predators, it's the fact that he lost a future Hall of Famer to an offer sheet. Now, it's too early to say that Shea Weber is a Hall of Famer, but the style that he has is similiar to the one that Poile let get away back in the day.

In the summer of 1990, a young Washington Capital defenseman named Scott Stevens was offer sheeted by the St. Louis Blues and David Poile, the Caps GM at the time, didn't feel the need to match that and let Stevens go for first round Draft picks (five in total) and $100,000 in compensation. Of course, Stevens went on to become one of the most feared stay-at-home defenseman and three-time Stanley Cup winner, which would land him into the Hall of Fame.

You have to think that reliving that nightmare again wasn't going to be in the cards for Poile a second time, even though many thought Stevens was over the whole experience in DC. Even though Poile had an extra first rounder (two would be Brendan Witt and Sergei Gonchar), it still didn't help that void of Stevens-- hindsight being what it is.

Poile learned from that and probably valued Weber a little higher than Stevens because Weber is the captain and a big force to the team as a whole, while Stevens at the time was still in the shadow of Rod Langway in terms of notoriety. If Weber had been allowed to walk away, the fan base would have been in an uproar (rightfully so) and Poile may have been run out on a rail if they didn't make the playoffs this season. Luckily, Poile and the Caps made the playoffs years after Stevens' departure-- though nothing of true substance, sadly.

With the wisdom that Poile has gained and seeing what could happen, it was a good combination when it comes to actually matching the offer sheet by the Flyers. Also, the Rick Nash deal and seeing the backlash that a GM got for giving up his star player for a less-than-desirable return (according to some) probably helped Poile's case to the ownership that Weber is needed in order to help this franchise along and to keep their higher profile players around.

Granted, that is a lot of money for a guy like Weber, but he is still looking at his prime years ahead of him, he still can contribute on all side of the rink, and could very well help the Predators in the playoffs with each year of experience he gets. Hopefully the investment for the Predators work out-- though it could be damning to Poile, Weber, and the team if it doesn't.

In the end, Poile could be in a "damned if you do, damned if you don't" situation now because of it. Only time and revisionist history will tell.

Thanks For Coming Out, Nashville Predators

Just when you get over the hurdle of the Detroit Red Wings and you think you're cruising-- something hits a bumps and next thing you know-- the Nashville Predators are out of the playoffs. And now, with an unknown summer looming as far as free agent defensemen go, the Preds will wonder if they'll ever clear that second-round hump.

More over, the whole controversy with what happened to Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn after Game Two into Games Three and Four-- you have to wonder if a misjudgement by punishing two solid scorers  for another game could be Barry Trotz's undoing. I'm sure it won't be, but for a team who only scored nine goals-- six in the first two games-- you would need all the offensive power you could muster.

Which is another thing you could look at in the undoing of the Preds was not scoring when needed. The team only had one 20+ goal scorer in Mike Fisher and had three guys with a high of three goals in the playoffs. While the addition of Radulov was wishful thinking, he only contributed one goal in the playoffs--which is something that many expected wouldn't happen.

On the defensive side, it's the biggest question on whether or not the Preds can retain both Shea Weber and Ryan Suter or if one or both will be going away from Music City, USA. Weber is the captain and probably will be the guy the Preds will want to retain; but he's also a restricted free agent, which helps and hurts the Preds, while Suter is the UFA. The loss of either would be huge, as Weber and Suter were 4th and 5th in team scoring, respectively. For a defense first team, the Preds will exhaust everything in order to try and keep both.

Pekka Rinne is the only constant for next year, as his extension gave him a little hangover after he signed, but his first 40-win season and Vezina nomination shows that Rinne will be the cornerstone of this Preds team moving forward. Though, having some help in front of him would help a lot.

It will be something to behold what the Preds do, but it will be a lot of head-scratching after a season that should still be going came to a screeching halt.

Predictions For Round Two

So after the 16 overtimes in the first round, a record, the second round really has to bring something special to the table in order to actually top its opening act. While there's plenty of chess-matches out west, the east is very wild in their match-ups, harkening back to the olden days of the Patrick Division. Now, how to pick them-- especially after the 5-3 record in the first round, no exactas either.

EASTERN CONFERENCE


(1) NEW YORK RANGERS vs. (7) WASHINGTON CAPITALS

This is the third time in four playoffs these two teams will face off, the Caps winning each series. And while the roles are reversed in terms of seeding, the main players are still the same. Henrik Lundqvist is always going to be the determining factor in most of the Rangers' games, while Alex Ovechkin will be piping mad from the first round and may want to prove the pundits wrong on the world's biggest stage at Madison Square Garden.

With what the Caps showed in Round One, this series could be a grind-fest of a series with things won or lost on the boards. Dale Hunter and John Tortorella could set a record for least amount of time spent on a podium in hopes they don't get fined.

PREDICTION: Capitals in Six. They showed a lot of moxy against the Stanley Cup champions and may have gotten a swagger back enough to take the Rangers for a third time in four years.

(5) PHILADELPHIA FLYERS vs. (6) NEW JERSEY DEVILS

Two Atlantic Division foes taking on each other will help with the no love loss in the playoffs thing. However, with Claude Giroux's explosion in Round One and the Flyers getting help from all aspects of the offense, it could make a rough series for Martin Brodeur and the Devils. Yet, the Devils are always up for the challenge, hoping to get more out of Adam Henrique and keep Zach Parise and Ilya Kovalchuk going. With the issues Ilya Bryzgalov has had in the playoffs, one domino may be all that's needed for the Devils.

It could be a tighter game for the Flyers, especially since they know how defensive the Devils can be, so seeing their wide-open game could be just a first-round-mirage, but the rest time could be what they need to adapt.

PREDICTION: Flyers in Five. Despite the long lay-off, the Devils will be tired out and with their goaltending being on the older age scale, it could be a task for them to actually be competitive.

WESTERN CONFERENCE


(2) ST. LOUIS BLUES vs. (8) LOS ANGELES KINGS

Well, this could be.....a long series. Emotionally and mentally draining. Not so much for fast game play, but for the chess match that will be going along with it all. The battle between Jonathan Quick and Brian Elliott will be something that keeps these games to 0-0 for the longest times. This could be a closer series than the Bruins/Capitals and the defense will be something to behold. It will be exciting even without the scoring, I'm sure.

Both squads will need their best players to keep going-- Dustin Brown may not be enough for the Kings, as Mike Richards and Jeff Carter need to get off the snide. The Blues will need to get more from TJ Oshie and David Perron, though Andy McDonald's eight points in five games could be a great start for his Conn Smythe bid.

PREDICTION: Blues in Six. While I like the Kings set-up and how they're able to keep things going-- the fact remains the Blues seem more of a complete team to me and will breakdown the Kings defense better than the Canucks did.

(3) PHOENIX COYOTES vs. (4) NASHVILLE PREDATORS

A battle between the last two teams that Jim Balsillie tried to buy, this other Western match-up will be a battle of the dueling goalies-- Pekka Rinne, who is a solid Vezina contender, and Mike Smith, the best statistical goalie since March. While Rinne has the advantage in terms of experience, we have seen that experience doesn't count for much in the playoffs this year.

At the end of the day, the dynamics that the Predators have, especially with Alexander Radulov coming on in a big way, the Coyotes may need to hope their luck from the first round keeps going and that their top players don't have the bumps and bruises they got against the Hawks.

PREDICTION: Predators in Five. With the scoring coming from unlikely sources and goaltending being solid, the Predators are a team that really want to get over the hump they have been dealing with for years.

Nashville's D-ilemma

It was mentioned on the 11.09.11 episode of the Face Off Hockey Show, which was the unknown topic of the masterful Lyle Richardson's article on The Hockey News' website-- but the Nashville Predators are in a tight spot with the signing of Pekka Rinne last week, but only in terms of trying to re-sign Shea Weber, Ryan Suter, or both.

If you look at the things both bring to the table, you have to wonder who has the edge. The knee-jerk reaction is to say Weber-- if only for the physical force he brings to the table, as well as the cannon of a shot. The fact that the Predators are not a high-offensively minded team and Weber is good for 15 goals on the back-line while Suter has no more than eight in one season (2006-07).

Yet, the Predators have always been know and probably will always be known as a defensive team. That's where I think Suter has the edge. As good as Weber is in the offensive zone, Suter has the edge in his own zone and is probably the more of a shutdown man in comparison. If the Predators want to stick to that same scheme of defense first, Suter has to be the right choice to say around.

Of course, you look at what has happened in situations before. Most notably, the Ottawa Senators when trying to decide between Wade Redden and Zdeno Chara. In the end, the Sens made the wrong choice in picking Redden, as Chara was a monster back then and still is now. That's where the Predators are and this is a "damned if you do, damned if you don't" situation. If you let Weber go, you let a physical presence go with a helluva offensive upside. If you let Suter go, there goes a guy who could shutdown a team in a key situation.

Another side of the situation is Ryan Suter being the only one of the two being a UFA in the summer, while Shea Weber is a RFA. The danger in this is that Suter can be left with nothing coming back in return, which will ramp up his trade rumors. With Weber, the Predators could have other team dictate what the Predators have to pay if he is signed to an offer-sheet in the summer.

David Poile is a magician as a GM. If there's anyone who can balance out this situation, it could be Poile. While he's not a guy who will spend over his own means in order to appease the fan base who'd love to have all these guys signed to long-term deals. He won't hand-cuff his team in order to keep some guys who may not be able to pan out to their contractual terms. All eyes will be on Nashville until the trade deadline, then starting up again in June-- and mostly not for the hockey.

Realignment Assignment

If we are to believe the Irish god of Twitter, Bob McKenzie, then the Detroit Red Wings will be the newest member of the Eastern Conference in the Southeast Division, sliding the Winnipeg Jets over to the Western Conference in the Central Division.

I'll let that sink in for a second, while you try-- like me-- to figure out how this is possible.

For one, the Red Wings are further north than the Columbus Blue Jackets-- who could really use the move to the Eastern Conference because of the monetary woes they have been having. Greg Wyshynski pointed it out perfectly in this tweet. Hell, even the Nashville Predators would make a little more sense to be in that area in terms of location; though they are in another time zone and about 200 miles further away to their closest rival than the Wings or Jackets are.

Regardless of the outcome-- the tin-foil hat brigade will be other on either side.

If the Red Wings move: Then the Wings haters will be all over the NHL for saying that the Wings have the NHL by short hairs and forced this move to have an easier schedule, though they have been doing very well in the Western Conference even with the travel.

If any other team moves in lieu of the Red Wings: Then the Wings fans will get up in arms about how the NHL doesn't want them to win and that because of their history-- they should be able to move to the East and have a lighter travel handed to them.

Either way, the NHL is in a lose-lose situation here. Damned if they do, damned if they don't.

Not so much the distant, the fact that the Red Wings would lose the rivalries they have with the Chicago Blackhawks, Colorado Avalanche, and even the Nashville Predators if they moved west; though if the Preds move-- that would screw that up, but whatever. My point is that you can't have a team that has a rival base like that up-and-move because they feel they have some kind of stroke with the league.

Logically, the Blue Jackets would be the best. They don't have any natural rivalries in the West, they're in financial peril and could use the break in travel, plus they're closer to the Southeast Division than the Wings. I'm not a fan of the Predators moving due to the time-zone, but at the same time-- it would fit in to the geographical logic.

With brings me to this point, the NHL needs to realize that they geographical assignments to the divisions don't work. Hell, the divisions should exist anymore. Since teams don't have to play out of their divisions to move along-- why even have them at all?? Send the best eight teams out of the Conference to represent them in the Stanley Cup Finals rather than having to make sure that every division has a team in there, even if they aren't worthy enough-- like the Southeast Division was for years. There's really no need to have the geographical assignments with teams out of whack-- like Minnesota in the Northwest Division.

If the NHL wants a divisional setting-- you'll have to have uneven divisions of seven in one, eight in the other, and have the top-four from each go to the playoffs, play out of the playoffs, and then move onto the winners out of the division go to the Conference Finals-- much like in the days where there was a Patrick, Adams, Smythe, and Norris Divisions out there.

The debate will never not make sense to one side or another and the debates will rage on. Now, if the Blue Jackets or Phoenix Coyotes end up moving to Quebec City-- then problem solved, but that's just me stirring the pot. We'll just have to wait until December.....a long December.

Wade Belak 1976-2011

The world lost Wade Belak on Wednesday. It was the second time in just over two weeks the NHL has lost someone close to the community, as Rick Rypien passed on the 15th of August. Both cases seem to be by way of suicide. This is also the third death this off-season, including Derek Boogaard's passing earlier in the summer.

While Belak wasn't always a guy who jumped out on the score sheet for goals or assists, he was a fan favorite and a guy who was always there to help out the team with an energy shift or to stir up things with the other team. He was always there for the media to give a quip and always seemed to have a light-hearted person. He was a character. On the ice, Belak was a scrapper, but it seemed off the ice, he was a teddy bear. The most heartbreaking part of this is him leaving behind a wife and two young daughters who may never know the answers as to why.

---------

While people are quick to jump on sides and try to play armchair commissioner; it's not that easy. People can clamor for change as much as they want, but by all knowledge; Belak didn't have any known cases of depression nor concussions (according to him, at least). He was a character and always seemed to be a happy-go-lucky guy. The world is less without him on it anymore.

But as far as people blaming the NHL or NHLPA for not doing enough to help out their players-- who's to say they didn't?? Like I mentioned and has been mentioned abound, it didn't seem like Belak showed any symptoms of depression and it hasn't be documented that he ever requested to go into the program at all.

As I mentioned in my post about Rypien, there's a lot of times where guys aren't going to broadcast their problems out there. A lot of guys are on guard because of the profession they got into. They have a strong pride factor with their toughness and if they even show some vulnerability, it could be seen as weakness and they never showed weakness at all.

People can go on and on about the programs and how the league and the PA needs to get harsher on testing and monitoring of players-- but you cannot force someone to go into these programs. They aren't children and if they feel there is nothing wrong; you have to trust them-- especially if they aren't doing any harm to themselves or others outside of the rink.

Any kind of program a person gets into when it comes to depression is only as good as the person who is getting the help. The NHL and NHLPA could have thrown every available option at guys like Rypien and Belak and it still may not have been enough. Hell, Rypien was in a program a couple times and wasn't rushed at all to come back. He had the wherewithal to actually voluntarily go into the program; because he knew something was up and wanted to get himself better.

There's no cure-all for depression, and while the psychological part of it all is just as important as the physical part-- it's much, much harder to diagnosis and to treat; especially if someone believes they are okay the way they are. All the medicine, counseling, and time in the world could be given to any player-- and it still may not be enough.

Because of that-- you cannot blame any party involved. These are sad happenstances that occur and sadly, would have occurred regardless of how early it was caught, how much medicine was given, how much advice or life changes were suggested. That the messed up part of the brain chemistry; no one really knows how someone else feels and you have to be trusting if they aren't showing any signs.

People can go on and on about how fighting or overly physical nature of the game is to blame; but sometimes that's not always the case. These players are also humans-- they have real-life issues, real-life problems, and are just like you and me; but put on a highly pedestal because of their skills they were able to pick-up through playing a game they love, which they turned into a career. It's easy to lose sight of the humanity of the situation until it turns tragic.

God speed to you, Wade-- I hope you have found peace. To the Belak family, my deepest condolences to you all and I hope one day you may all find some peace in all of this.

To those reading this-- hug the ones you love today and let them know you love them. And hopefully I won't have to write another one of these for a good, long while.

What's Next 2011: Nashville Predators

It was a banner year for the Nashville Predators, going further than any previous Predators teams and then actually showing they could keep up with the top team in the NHL. However, the downfall of the team was something that could very well be fixed in the off-season for them.

When it comes to defensively, the Predators are definitely solid-- with Shea Weber leading the charge and getting him signs should be top priority, because if it gets to July 1st-- he will be offer-sheeted at 12:01 AM. That said, with Weber as the cornerstone-- the young core they have is stellar; Ryan Suter helps the offensive cause with Weber, Cody Franson is slowly developing into a solid two-way player, and Kevin Klein rebounded from last year nicely and honing his stay-at-home prowess. The defense is definitely the main point for the Preds game-plan and they've build it up very nicely.

In net, it seems that Pekka Rinne has really broken the curse of Tomas Vokoun leaving and has solidified himself as top-tier goalie-- especially with his Vezina Trophy nomination. Even so, Anders Lindback had a decent season as a back-up in his first season in North America; which could provide a solid 1-2 punch going forward-- but Rinne is going to be the guy for years to come, or so the Preds hope.

Offense is really the big thing that could be holding the Predators back. With only two guys hitting the (exactly) 50-point plateau and only two guys having more than 20 goals; it could be the reasoning they couldn't have beat the Canucks. That said, Martin Erat and Patric Hornqvist are definitely guys who can reach for a big output if they're given the free reign, while Sergei Kostitsyn did a lot for getting paid a little-- which could turn out to give him a solid payday this summer. Also, Joel Ward's performance in the playoffs should get him a nice contract this summer as well. The addition of Mike Fisher should bring not only a veteran presence, but a solid forecheck for the defensive front.

In the end, the Preds did more than many expected and brought the city alive and into hockey, which many people doubt for the past........several years. They have a lot to build on and all the tools to make Nashville a hot spot for hockey in the next few years.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Mike Dunham

After weeks of some old-school types, we go forth with a more recent goalie who keeps dabbling in the game today. From a solid NCAA career to a great international career, to a dependable NHL career; this week's goalie has been through it all and still has his work cut out from him, even though he's been retired for a few seasons now. This week, the profile of Mike Dunham.

Dunham started out at The Canterbury School, a prep school in Connecticut, playing there for three seasons. He would be drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the third round of the 1990 Draft, but Dunham had committed to the University of Maine and would honor his commitment to the Black Bears. Starting in the 1990-91 season, Dunham would start out playing behind Garth Snow at Maine, playing 23 games with a 14-5-2 on the season. Also that season, Dunham went to the World Juniors for the US, going 1-2-0 in three games. Dunham would see limited amount of time in the Maine net, as he played only seven games with a 6-0-0 record to show for it.

However, in the 1991-92 season, Dunham mostly spent time with USA hockey's program, playing in the World Juniors and going 5-0-1 in six games, leading the US to a bronze medal performance and getting Top Goaltender honors from the tournament. Dunham also spent time with the National Team touring squad, going 0-1-1 in three games, while going 0-1-0 in three games at the World Championships and being a spare goalie for the 1992 Olympic team.

The 1992-93 season had Dunham playing a huge role with the Maine Black Bears, playing in 25 games with a 21-1-1 record, then helping the Bears get to the NCAA Tournaments-- winning the title over Lake Superior State. Dunham would be Hockey East First Team All-Star and NCAA First Team All-American. Dunham would join the US team for the World Championships, going 1-0-0 in his only game. Dunham would stick with the US National Team in the 1993-94 season, playing on tour with them going 22-9-2 in 33 games, then 0-1-2 in three games during the Olympics.

Post Olympics, Dunham started his pro career by joining the Albany River Rats of the AHL, where he would play five games at the end of the '93-'94 season and going 2-2-1. In his first full season in Albany in the 1994-95 season, Dunham came into his own, playing in 35 games with a 20-7-8 record, then going 6-1 in seven playoff games, as the River Rats won the Calder Cup. Along with Corey Schwab, Dunham would collect the Hap Holmes Memorial Award for fewest goals-against and shared Playoff MVP honors with Schwab. Dunham's role expanded in the 1995-96 season, going 30-10-2 in 44 games, but wouldn't be able to repeat the playoff heroics, going 1-2 in three games.

The 1996-97 season had Dunham move up to the New Jersey Devils to back-up Martin Brodeur. Dunham would get in 26 games with a 8-7-1 record, including two shutouts, which allowed him to share the William Jennings Trophy for fewest goals-against with Brodeur. Dunham also spent three games in Albany, going 1-1-1 in three games. The 1997-98 season saw Dunham play only 15 games with a 5-5-3 record to show for it. Dunham would head to the the World Championships again with the USA with an 0-1-0 record in two games.

The Devils left Dunham unprotected, which allowed the Nashville Predators to claim him in the Expansion Draft. Dunham would split time with Tomas Vokoun, mostly because Dunham missed 26 games due to a reoccurring groin injury. Dunham still go into 44 games with a 16-23-3 record. The 1999-2000 season was better for Dunham, as he played in 52 games witha 19-27-6 record for the Preds, then spending a game in the IHL with the Milwaukee Admirals-- which was a win. Injuries plagued Dunham in the 2000-01 season, as he missed 15 games due to a knee injury, but it was a solid season after all-- sporting a 21-21-4 record in 48 games. Back on the mend in 2001-02, Dunham would put together a 23-24-9 record in 58 games, but Dunham would take home some hardware, as he would go to the Olympics; winning the only game he played in and captured a Silver Medal for the US. Dunham would start the 2002-03 campaign with the Predators, but would only play 15 games; going a dismal 2-9-2 before he was sent out.

Dunham was sent to the New York Rangers for Rem Murray, Tomas Kloucek and Marek Zidlicky. Dunham would have to take over for the injured Mike Richter, as Dunham would play 43 games in the Big Apple going 19-17-5 with five shutouts. Back in the Big Apple, Dunham would have another rough season-- finishing 16-30-6 in 57 games.

With the lockout in 2004-05, Dunham went to Sweden to play 13 games with Skelleftea AIK HK in the Swedish Division II league.

Once the lockout was over, Dunham was signed by the Atlanta Thrahsers for the 2005-06 season, but had to deal with his share of groin issues again, playing only 17 games with a 8-5-2 record. While rehabbing, Dunham spent time in the ECHL with the Gwinnett Gladiators, winning both his games he played in.

Dunham then signed with the New York Islanders for the 2006-07 season, playing only 19 games with a 4-10-3 record, mostly using his time as a mentor to the young Islanders goalies coming up through the ranks. However, after that year-- Dunham retired from the NHL.

Post retirement, Dunham would stay with the Islanders as their goalie coach, a spot he holds today. Many thought he would suit up again this past season, as the Islanders had issues with keep goaltenders healthy.

Though he had a solid college career, his NHL years were less than stellar. Even with that, he always answered the call for his country, which allowed him for a decorated career with Team USA. From those experiences, he's now able to try and mentor the younger goalies through the Islanders system.

Friday Five: Quick Second Round??

We had a bit of hiatus, but with not much else going on-- why not bring it back for a second. It's been.....uneventful following the amazing first round, not much could meet up to those kind of expectations.

1. Is there something that could really save this second round, as three series could be sweeps and the other at 3-1??

Unless we get a monumental comeback like last year's second round; I don't know if there's much that could really save that. But-- looking at it like this; odds are they could push everything back and we'll get the Stanley Cup finals started earlier than June 1st. But, we usually have these dud rounds, though they usually come in the first round, mostly because there's more series'.

2. Speaking of 3s and 1s, can anything stop the Tampa Bay Lightning??

The Bolts are strong and mostly due to the system, but Dwayne Roloson has been outstanding and the Bolts are not only working the defensive system; but transitioning well off the system. The Bolts scored an average of four goals per game against the Caps, so it's not like it's a boring trap system of old. Both the Bruins or Flyers will have their work cut out for them in the Conference Finals.

3. While he went missing in the first round, Ryan Kesler has really beaten Mike Fisher in the checking game in round two. How did Kesler get his groove back??

It seems that Kesler was able to adjust against Nashville, mostly because outside of Fisher-- there's very few would could keep up with Kesler in Nashville. Chicago had a lot of muckers who could keep up with Kesler, but it seems he's able to disappear and reappear at will against Nashville. There's only so much Pekka Rinne can do while being the back stop for the Preds, he can't play man-to-man on Kesler.

4. Are the Red Wings showing that ending a series really early is a bad thing??

The Red Wings don't look like the Red Wings in the first round, even with guys like Henrik Zetterberg back in the line-up. While it may have been the long layoff putting up a lot of rust on the team, but the Sharks are really primed for big things. These games are also close, all one goal games-- two of the three going to overtime. Even with the Sharks on the verge, I think the Wings will make that fourth game tougher to to win for San Jose.

5. Question of the week: What to do with Bruce Boudreau??

I believe that George McPhee won't be the one to fire him, so that only leaves Ted Leonsis to do the deed. I don't think Ted will do that, for now. The Caps front office will give Boudreau another half-season; but if they falter like they did at the start of this season-- they will pull the trigger on firing Boudreau and getting some new blood on there. It's not that Boudreau is a bad coach, the players may or may not have forgotten what they were told from him; which could have been their downfall.

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If you have any ideas to put through the playoff grind, email me at Scotty.Wazz@Gmail.com and I'll do what I can in order to answer the questions/topic/or whatever.

The John Druce Award: After One Round

So, one round has come and gone; thus we have to recap the first round of who's the "John Druce" of their team. Of course, John Druce known for picking up the slack for the injured Dino Ciccarelli in the 1990 Playoffs for the Washington Capitals putting up 14 goals and 17 points out of nowhere. Obviously, goals will count for more-- but it's really about the top point getter that you'd never expect.

1. Ryane Clowe, San Jose-- 4g, 3a: Sure, you could say Clowe's performance this season with 20+ goals wouldn't make him a shock, but since he's leading the Sharks in goals and points after one round over Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau is a bit of an upset special for the team.
2. Chris Kelly, Boston-- 3g, 3a: For a guy who had two goals in five points in 24 regular season games, Kelly has come through pretty big for the Bruins in the second season. Tied with Nathan Horton in goals and second in points; the impact from Kelly's trade is coming through when it's been most needed.

3. Mike Fisher, Nashville-- 3g, 3a: While his points total will probably go down in a more checking role against the Canucks top line, his contribution in the Ducks series has been pretty solid and shows what he could actually provide, outside of the defensive side of his game.

4. Alexandre Burrows, Vancouver-- 3g, 3a : With the top line being shut down, Burrows came up pretty big for the Canucks. His clutch goal in Game Seven solidified him as a top provider and I'm sure there will be more to come of that, as the first line will be targeted for shutdown against the Predators.

Honorable Mentions: Joel Ward, Nashville; James van Riemsdyk, Philadelphia; Joe Pavelski, San Jose

Tracking the John Druce Award

For the hardcore Capitals fan, the legend of John Druce is one that is forever embedded into the minds of people who are looking for the unlikeliest of people to dominate and take over the scoring while the star players are hurt or slumping. The John Druce story is still one many remember when it comes to the playoffs.

For those unfamiliar with the story, during the Capitals 1990 playoff run; top scorer Dino Ciccarelli was knocked out due to a knee injury and John Druce was the guy on the Caps who stepped up and really took over the workload potting 14 goals and three assists in 15 games before the Caps bowed out to the Boston Bruins in the Prince of Wales Conference Finals. Druce was never able to get the magic back, scoring only three more playoff goals in 38 more playoff games.

So, while we're only one game into the playoffs-- we could turn this into a multi-weekly look....if for nothing else but to make this a complete theme-day blog and to have gimmicks run wild. You knew what you were getting into, folks.

In any case, you look at night one, and Mike Fisher could be a candidate; but it also brings up the question on who you can actually consider a superstar when it comes per team?? Fisher is a well-known player, but could he consider a star on his team from his on-ice performance?? I'm going with no, so he's in this debate. Another guy is Brooks Orpik, who has two assists for the Penguins-- leading the team in points. We've got two front-runners now, so it's time for the other series' to start and other guys to actually step-up.

So, that's what's up. Really have no way to finish this.......ummmm......bye.

Baltimore's Exhibition A Jumping Point??

It was speculated by the Baltimore Sun and confirmed by Washington Post's DC Sports Bog; the Washington Capitals will play an exhibition game in Baltimore's First Mariner Arena, mostly likely against the Nashville Predators, whose coach-- Barry Trotz-- is a former Baltimore Skipjacks' coach. This is also coming on the heels of the Bog talking about how Baltimore fans are supporting the Caps in Baltimore bars-- with a picture of some of my former teammates there.

I've documented the history of Baltimore hockey and why the city probably won't be a site for NHL relocation if they get a new arena-- but if there is a solid turnout, could this be wishful thinking about a minor league club down the line??

Short answer, no. Long answer, still no; but with a "but."

First and foremost, if this game pans out like the Caps think it will with a Baltimore crowd, then it could set wheels in motion for the Baltimore area to get a new arena, as First Mariner has been there in downtown since 1962. There has been talks about there being a new arena built in the Canton area, but it has since moved to the downtown core, extending from the Convention Center-- but could cost $1BILLION dollars for the 18,500 seat arena. That's quite a lot of butts to fit into an arena for a minor league game, but it'd probably be used mostly for concerts and other events, like wrestling. Even so, an upgraded place could be a nice attraction to some minor league teams having issues in their current area.

Yet, even if there is an interest team-- the Baltimore Blast own the city when it comes to indoor excitement. The indoor soccer team would probably want to command most of the weekend dates, which would hamstring any hockey team wanting to go there due to the fact that weekday games aren't that much of a draw. Since the indoor soccer season goes from November to March, it'd be hard to have hockey and soccer get primo dates. If they are able to work it out together-- it may work, but who knows with everyone wanting the entertainment dollar for themselves. The Blast are one of the reasons why the Baltimore Bandits didn't last too long.

In the end, I don't know if hockey will work in Baltimore for the long-term, but it could be something that should be looked at. If there's a lot of people getting into the Caps from the Baltimore area, why not have a team locally to be closer and cheaper for some families who may not be able to afford trekking down to DC and deal with the NHL prices. Time will tell, but this could be a jumping off point for a hockey future in Baltimore.

(It should be noted that I hope there's some kind of Baltimore Skipjacks tribute, or else it would be unjust to play there. And Maryland goalie Matt Mitchell jokingly said he would give up his pads to a Caps goalie in order to be close to "the show.")

Friday Five: Returns and Reunions

It's been quite the week.....and yet another goalie fight, so it just shows that I'm an idiot and really don't know anything about hockey and how it works. Why are you even reading this?? Oh well, time for the F5 because it's Friday.

1. With the rabble-rousing of Carrie Underwood husband's being traded to her locale, how rough it is for the Ottawa Senators to get nothing in return??

If I'm playing on the Senators (and if things get bad, I actually may) I'd be a little disillusioned with the situation. Sure, you expect trades to happen and maybe some of the bigger named guys-- but getting an unknown in return is a bit disheartening. Fisher wasn't the flashiest guy, but got the job done and helped that team in any chance he could. With getting only picks back, coupled with an 11-game losing skid, as well as a regime that is almost guaranteed to be ousted at season's end (though it should be sooner), you almost have to think Eugune Melnyk is playing the role of Nero as his Rome burns (rack 'em).

That said, it seems par for the course for the Sens since they made it to the Stanley Cup finals in 2007 and nothing has seemed to get better or easier-- from goaltending, to coaching, to guys leaving-- it just snowballs into something worse; and you can't blame the fans for being rageful about the direction of this team.

2. With all these trades with some decent profile names, will this Trade Deadline Day be more about names moving or just upgrading role players on the roster??

This one could be all about upgrading the role players on the team. While there's decent UFAs for the summer, odds are you aren't willing to pay a lot to get them as a rental player. Basically teams are going to just tie up their loose ends when it comes to mucker and grinders, with maybe a decent size name going in the process. Yet-- I don't know if teams will wait for the 28th, as the gettings are good right now.

3. Ilya Kovalchuk is on a tear and the Devils continue their rise. Wishful thinking or was this a sign of waiting too long to replace John MacLean??

This was definitely something where they waited a bit too long to fire their coach, but they are showing they aren't the big bust many people thought they were. Kovalchuk, despite the minus-22, has been hot with five goals and five assists in the last eight games and showing he's worth his money. Even with Martin Brodeur dealing with injuries, the team has played well around Johan Hedberg recently, which is something they didn't do too much with MacLean behind the bench. While they're 13 points out of a playoff spot and have to keep an unimaginable pace to even keep up....some are keeping the faith.

4. Peter Forsberg returns tonight against the Columbus Blue Jackets-- injury happens...??

I'd say before the month of February ends. While it's a solid story if he does come back and plays well enough to get a contract for next year-- but the reality of the situation is he'll play a couple minutes tonight and in a few more games before he realizes he can't keep up with the speed and then retires for good....until October when it all starts again.

5. Quebec city is getting a $400M arena built. How much will this be like the Kansas City/Sprint Center fiasco??

With no team in sight for expansion or relocation (so they say) it could be a big deal for building such an expensive arena and not have anyone to house the arena after it's built. While hockey is very prevalent in Canada and a junior team could probably house that arena-- it's not what they want. The Canadian Olympic Committee President and former Quebec Nordiques' president and club owner said the NHL will be back in three years. Wishful thinking, but you may need that kind of over-the-top positive attitude in order to make something like this succeed.

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That's another week and if you want to get in contact with an idea for a topic-- Scotty.Wazz@Gmail.com is the place to send it over to. It'll be a riot if you see your topic here and you can tweet all your friends about it too....or not.

Last Teams to Retire One

Since it's the dog days of summer and the announcement of Rod Brind'Amour's number 17 being retired by the Carolina Hurricanes, it made me get into The Hockey News' "Greatest Jersey of All Time" issue and look at the teams who don't have any numbers retired. Since all the teams have been in the league for 10 seasons, it's about time to look at who could be hanging from the rafters of the eight teams who don't have numbers retired.

ANAHEIM DUCKS: While the obvious guys like Paul Kariya, Teemu Selanne, and J-S Giguere will be seeing their numbers hanging from the Honda Center when their careers are done; the candidate now will probably be Guy Hebert, who was the first "face" of the organization. He may not have had the best stats, he was the guy who backstopped those expansion years and held down the fort for the most part.

ATLANTA THRASHERS: The odd part about the Thrashers is that all the big names are nowhere close to retirement and kind of left on shaky terms (read: Dany Heatley and Ilya Kovalchuk), so it's hard to figure out who could be next. While Dan Snyder's number was not officially retired, just taken out of circulation; maybe Ray Ferraro could be considered since he was one of the first bigger name players to start off the Thrashers' appeal. If not, Slava Kozlov may not be too far off from retiring and could be the first to have his number officially put up there.

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: There's no question that David Vyborny should be the first guy have his number retired. Vyborny was on the original Blue Jackets roster and stayed there until he was done his NHL career and went home to his homeland in the Czech Republic. As it is right now, he's at the top of the Blue Jackets' all-time points, albeit they've only been around for ten seasons....still. If there's one guy who deserves to be there, it's the OG of the Jackets.

FLORIDA PANTHERS: While you have plenty of guys viable, mostly from the 1995-96 team (Scott Mellanby, Brian Skrudland), but there was no one more of a face to that team than John Vanbiesbrouck. He was a big reason the Panthers got to where they did in their Cup run and really one of the first names that came out of the expansion team and made them successful from the start of their organization.

MINNESOTA WILD: While they did the hack retirement of the #1 for the fans, Wes Walz should be the first official and proper number retired. Like Vyborny, Walz was with the Wild from the start and he was someone who encompassed the team by playing hard-nosed and being the little guy who clawed to get where he needed to be. He was much beloved, as well-- which should help the process along.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS: When he retires, expect David Legwand to have his number retired, but beforehand, maybe look at Cliff Ronning for the first to go to the rafters or even the first captain Tom Fitzgerald. An dark horse could be Mike Dunham, but I don't think he left too much of a mark, but maybe more than Ronning and Fitzgerald.

SAN JOSE SHARKS: While Doug Wilson was the first captain, Arturs Irbe and Owen Nolan could be prime candidates as the first to be retired, Nolan having to wait until he's actually done with the game for it to happen. Maybe with Sandis Ozolinsh being an outside guy to steal the first Sharks being raised. You could make a point for Jeff Friesen for his time in the Shark Tank, but that would be a little odd considering what he did after he left the Sharks.

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING: The toss-up for the Bolts could be between Dave Andreychuk and Brian Bradley. Andreychuk was the guy who captained the Bolts to their only Cup championship to this point, but he wasn't the offensive force that Bradley was in his tenure with the Bolts. He turned it on when he got to Tampa and really showed what he had, albeit on a weak team. Even so, I think Bradley should get consideration first for overall achievements with the team.

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There could be a debate for the Ottawa Senators, who retired Frank Finnigan's #8 from the non-expansion days, but don't know how the people feel about that; so I didn't include them.

This is the time where you have to dig into the bag for things to ponder and during retirement season, it's a good choice to wonder about who could be the next going to the rafters. Especially when you have so many teams worrying about the "what have you done for me lately" ideal when it comes to retiring numbers rather than overall to the franchise.

What's Next: Nashville Predators 2010

Another first round, another exit for the Predators. Although, after missing last year's playoffs-- the Predators do have something to look forward to next year, though I'm sure plenty of questions will spring up, as they always do, for how to remedy these early exits year-in and year-out for a fan base that seems to enjoy it when hockey matters.

It seems that the goaltending was selected when Pekka Rinne was re-signed, but you have to wonder if Dan Ellis could get re-signed, as well--just as a contingency plan to Rinne. While Rinne did have his bright spots, when he fell; he fell hard. To have Ellis back would give Chet Pickard another year to grow in Milwaukee and give Rinne a NHL-ready goalie to pick up some pieces. Especially with a defensive minded team like this, there's going to be a need for a two-goalie system, especially when you have some instability every now and again. Even so, the tandem of Rinne and Ellis could be for the greater good and worth the money if it means staying in the playoffs.

Offensively, the Predators could use some help. With only Steve Sullivan and Patric Hornqvist being over 50 points on the year, as well as Hornqvist being over 25 goals (Martin Erat was the other one over 20 goals); the need for some kind of goal support for the goalies is much needed. Hornqvist will need to be re-signed, as he is a RFA and probably going to be a strong asset in the franchise's future. Other than that-- the core will remain and with guys like Joel Ward starting to hit a stride, what more could you want other than execution on the goal-scoring front.

Defensively, the Predators have what most teams dream of. With the solid duo of Shea Weber and Ryan Suter, the Preds have a decent cornerstone for the future. The question on what to do with Dan Hamhuis will be a topic of the summer, though with Cody Franson coming up through the ranks; Hamhuis could be out in the free agent market because of a numbers game, as well as a drop in production over the past few seasons.

Much like the Sabres, who were eliminated the same day-- the question of Barry Trotz being on a short leash (with what neck, I'll never know) or not will come up. Trotz has been the only coach and David Poile the only GM. Even with all the good they have done to build up the future, it could be time for a message change and time for a new era of the Predators. Bring in someone who is new, like the team itself and maybe the fortunes will be different in the end.

The tools are there for the Predators, but it's a matter of actually getting it done. There's going to be a time where the cogs will fall into place and the hardship of first round defeats will be a distant memory. Odds are that it could come in the next few years with a little bit of work and little bit of change. They put up a solid fight and like other series; they could have one. But a bounce here and there really shot them in the foot.

Pointless Playoff Prognostication: Western Conference

The Eastern side was yesterday, today it's the West. It's semantics, folks.

(1) SAN JOSE SHARKS vs (8) COLORADO AVALANCHE

Look at that, the Sharks are at the top of the Western charts again and they will have plenty of pressure on them. Aside from Joe Thornton and Evgeni Nabokov being under the microscope, I'm sure the likes of Todd McLellan and Doug Wilson are under pressure as well. If the Sharks are going to fall in the first or second round, odds are the latter two are going to be gone; no questions asked. If Dany Heatley is the missing piece, he will have to show it this round or it was all for not. The time to break their curse is now for the Sharks or else they're screwed.

The Avalanche could be the worst thing for the Sharks to see in the opening round. Let's be honest, the team is full of young talent and they really have nothing to lose because I don't think many had high hopes for the Avs this year. Craig Anderson will be the guy that will probably make the Avs have the upset special. While Matt Duchene will be the go-to guy, they'll need a complete effort in order to keep their magical season alive.

PREDICTION: Sharks in six. While the Avs will probably put a scare into the Sharks, the Sharks up and down are far superior than the Avalanche. The urgency for the Sharks is going to be there and you can bet they won't rest on their laurels if they got up.

(2) CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS vs. (7) NASHVILLE PREDATORS

The Hawks are back at it after last year's run to the Conference finals, they look like they have the fire-power again. Granted, the albatross of Marian Hossa and unsure goaltending situation will be the focal points. Whether Cristobal Huet and Antti Niemi get the confidence boost to help the team get to the finals again, it remains to be see if they'd be able to carry the load and if the other could pick-up the pieces should they falter. Luckily, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews will lead the way in terms of getting the offense kicked up another notch.

The Predators will take their Scandinavian duo of Pekka Rinne and Patric Hornqvist as their top dogs, with Steve Sullivan there to bring the North American side of things. However, with only Sullivan and Hornqvist over 50 points, you have to think Rinne will be tested time and time again and could get shell-shocked. The defense will be tested by the Hawks every shift and they could be outmatched just due to sheer volume.

PREDICTION: Hawks in five. As much as I like Rinne, I don't think the Preds have the firepower to even test the durability and reliability of the Hawks goaltending. Plus, the Hawks know how to get through the first round and are battle tested, even as a young team.

(3) VANCOUVER CANUCKS vs. (6) LOS ANGELES KINGS

There's a lot to be said about Henrik Sedin winning the Art Ross Trophy after the Canucks had the onus of a defensive team. With Roberto Luongo behind everyone, then obviously offense took a backseat. Yet, the offense was something a little more turned up, obviously, but we'll see what happens when the second season comes along. The Luongo factor is there, but the fact Luongo has not been to his best in the past few weeks, you can bet he'll be on top of his game in order to keep the Canadian Cup hopes alive.

The Kings are back in the playoffs after a decent hiatus with their young squad. Jonathan Quick has been amazing, but like Luongo-- the last few weeks have been very disappointing, though I'm sure his mind was elsewhere with the birth of his child. Anze Kopitar should be a huge factor, but will probably be shutdown by the Canucks defense since they know to key onto him.

PREDICTION: Canucks in six. The Kings could win games at home, but the experience from the Canucks from years past and Luongo turning into Olympic Luongo will overtake the Kings youth. Whether or not Hank Sedin can really keep the point production going will be another subplot, but should be the means of offense for the Canucks.

(4) PHOENIX COYOTES vs. (5) DETROIT RED WINGS

Off-ice turmoil aside, the hiring of Dave Tippett and emergence of Ilya Bryzgalov really is the story on the ice. The fact the team dynamic is scoring by committee shows how valuable both of these guys are this season and how they have home-ice advantage. While you need a hot goalie for the playoffs, whether or not Bryzgalov can be that kind of goalie will show in the first game. The scoring will need to pick up in droves if the Coyotes hope to have success.

The Red Wings are finally healthy and that's scary. The fact many were worried if they would get in or not in the first half of the season to now saying they're a big threat should be the story in the West. Jimmy Howard has been spectacular, but his lack of playoff experience could be a downfall. While Chris Osgood's knowledge is at his disposal, this is Howard's team now and Osgood will be along for the ride. Especially since Ozzy hasn't been the most reliable this year.

PREDICTION: Red Wings in five. The story of the Coyotes is a great one for the team trying to be sold, the fact the Red Wings are firing on 95% should have the advantage given to Detroit. Plus, you have to figure it'll be a home-ice advantage away from home-ice with the following the Wings have, especially in Arizona. It may not be pretty in this one.

That's that. While I didn't do many upsets, the fact is....it's all unpredictable and craziness in the end. I'll see you in Round Two after I get less than 50% right.

Hornqvist Hosed By Calder Rules

Patric Hornqvist is having a heck of a season for the Nashville Predators, leading the team in goals and tied for second on the team in points. Personally, he'd be my candidate for the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year.....if he were eligible. However, since Hornqvist played 28 games last season for the Preds, the Swede is no longer eligible to win the honor.

The rules for eligibility are as such:

To be eligible for the award, a player cannot have played more than 25 games in any single preceding season nor in six or more games in each of any two preceding seasons in any major professional league. The player must not be older than 26 years before September 15 of the season in which he is eligible.

Thus, with Hornqvist playing three more games than the limit last season, he'll get hosed out of the award for this year; which would be a very dark horse pick considering the lack of attention he has gotten. Hornqvist has 19 goals, six power-play goals, six game-winners, and is a +12 on the season. He's a sound player and will probably shine for years to come with the Predators.

A thing like this will make some wonder if the NHL needs to adjust the rules with it comes to games played for all of this-- especially if Hornqvist builds off of this to have a fantastic season, as well as having more points than the actual first-year guys. I know that rules are rules, but to be deemed ineligible by three games seems a bit silly to me. Especially in a time where call-ups are the norm with all the injuries going on in the sport this day in age.

If the NHL were to bump it up to 35, even 40 games in a season or 15 games in each of the last two seasons, that'd be something I could get behind and would see it a little more competitive in a situation like this. This is a something that could have saved Jason Spezza, who played 33 games in 2002-03; thus making his solid 55 point campaign in 2003-04 null and void for the Calder race. Though he would have lost, odds are he could have been in the race and maybe even more motivated to push for himself and his team. Yet, thanks to the Sean-O Rookie Theorem, he's always eligible.

It's just a shame that a guy like Hornqvist has a legitimate shot at being the ROTY gets screwed because of only three games. He seems to be a great story for Nashville and could have given them more attention for the future, but alas; semantics rears it's ugly head. My hope (and it's not just because I picked him up on my fantasy team) is that Hornqvist keeps pushing like he has been and draws the attention of people and makes them wonder why he isn't considered for the Calder Trophy this year.

Definition of "Meh"

As speculated months ago from my post about the Death of Creativity, the Colorado Avalanche unveiled their third jerseys and it was the same design as was speculated. Very meh and very underwhelming considering the leaks that came out and the lack of disagreement upon the leaks. It almost made this unveiling something we were waiting to get over with.

Another "meh" looking design is the next slated third jersey coming out, which is the Florida Panthers on the 23rd of this month. The Panthers are putting out strategic leaks, including the new crest on the jersey, as well as someone from the CCSLC posting a picture of part of the new third. And I have to say, I'm a bit underwhelmed by this, as well. I mean, the Panthers already have a navy jersey, and templated at that. You'd think with their old school red jerseys when they first busted onto the scene, they'd revert back to that color. It almost doesn't make sense to have two navy jerseys-- kind of like the Bruins having a black third jerseys with their black home jerseys. Same with the Predators this year and their navy third jerseys. Usually a third jersey is something completely different from the regular sets.

The entire third jerseys unveiled this year isn't that radical at all. They are kind of going through the motions and are just putting out something just to make some kind of cash. The Wild's thirds are very meh, with the green-- and the Predators jerseys are nothing ground breaking. Maybe it's the Edge system that's handcuffing the teams, but when you look at the Blues thirds and all the retro jerseys that are around; they are able to make something look decent and profitable. It goes back to the creativity issue and why some teams are lacking it. Maybe make some of these designs from CCSLC or other boards a look and a chance. You never know how much of a hit these designs could actually be, because most people seem to like it when it's posted out in public.

Yet, in the end-- it's a cash grab-- let's be honest. Even if the minority of people aren't down with it, there's going to be a majority of people slapping some cash down in order to get into the trend of the new jersey buying. Sunrise, sunset.