On the Topic of the NHL Going Green

Have you heard about the NHL Green initiative?? If you haven't, you probably aren't alone because I just heard about it today when surfing around trying to find something to write about. I don't know if it's just me, but I find this whole thing a bit odd for the NHL; but I'll touch on that later.

The NHL promoted a lot of the Green thing during the Draft. In their press release, they touted that many of the teams were staying in hotels within walking distance to the hotel (which is usually the case in most drafts), that most of the signage was made of recycled materials, there were recycle bins on the Staples Center concourse, and unsold, prepared food was donated to a food bank. Granted, using those stats when it come to LA is a bit odd, mostly with all the smog created. If you were on the I-405 like me, you know that there were many people not going "green" at all. What can you do?? Yet, it's a good ideal for the NHL to promote and with all that signage the NHL Draft carries, it's solid to tout that.

That said, the NHL was been doing some features about how some of the players were doing their own thing with the Green initiative; like Martin Brodeur using energy efficient light-bulbs and Scott Niedermayer using a zero-emissions car. Yet, at the same time-- there's only so much you can promote before it gets stale. Like with the arena features they're doing-- it's the same story, but different city and a slight change here and there; but it's the same gimmick over and over again. Sure, a noble cause-- but something that will lose its shelf life sooner or later and people will get it very easily.

The interesting part that I see in all of this is the fact that the NHL probably uses the most energy in regards to the other sporting leagues, sans NASCAR, because of the engines and stuff there. Still, the ice surfaces uses a lot of chemical and a lot of energy to keep the rink cool and to keep the people in the stands warm-- a rough balance. Plus, the arenas have to use more energy the deeper a team gets into the playoffs thanks to the seasonal changes, which is probably something that's counterproductive to the whole cause. Plus, you have those Sunbelt teams who have to use a lot of energy because of the climate location where they are at, but that's something you could probably assume from the start. It seems that a lot of these things, coupled with the stuff on the concourse and people driving to the events, roadtrips or otherwise; you're not really doing too much for the cause. Plus, when it's really tucked away into the NHL interweb sphere; the message isn't really getting out there and putting that message of going Green to the masses.

While it's a good idea to have this cause put out there by the NHL, the fact they aren't pushing it too much and haven't really thought of the counterbalance that is produced in the arenas makes you wonder if this is just for show or if the league is actually looking at some things to really reduce their "carbon footprint." Maybe making the schedule shorter and having more outdoor games are the answer....the latter happen twice this coming season; the former probably never happening. Good on the NHL for putting forth the effort to make the league more eco-friendly, but unless they keep it up and do something more than just the PR push-- it's an empty gesture.

As least we know that Dion Phaneuf is this plan, right Sean Avery??

Good Idea, Bad Idea: 2010 UFAs

If you're a fan of the "Animaniacs" as I was, you'll remember Mr. Skullhead's "Good Idea, Bad Idea" segment, where they...well, have a good idea and bad idea based on a similar scenario. I feel that the unrestricted free agency market in the NHL is that kind of gimmick, where you look at options of a similar ilk and decide if it's a good idea or bad idea. Huzzah. In any case, I'll take the position and have two options that teams would be safe with and those that are not so safe. Got it?? Good.

GOALTENDER

GOOD IDEA: Dan Ellis-- While the goaltender market is really vast with some big names. The safest bet is Ellis. If given the chance, Ellis can as good as some of the bigger names out there, but cost a little less. Even in a even-keeled platoon program, Ellis will be able to adjust better and play to what got him some buzz after his 2006-07 campaign. While he has slumped, you can chalk that up to the team he was on rather than his own skill. He'll probably be very affordable and less of a risk than others out there.

BAD IDEA: Ray Emery-- Granted, his name has all been dropped in terms of who could be available, but some may think he could be as affordable as he was to Philadelphia. At the same time, the injury issue is always popping up with Emery; as is the inconsistency and possible turmoil in the room that it could provide. With his stats on the decline, he would probably price himself out of the market with a little more than he's worth in general and to some teams out there.

DEFENSEMEN

GOOD IDEA: Brian Pothier-- With a full season back under his belt after a long-term injury, Pothier could be a guy that may be overlooked, but provide a lot for the team that picks him up. While he may not be the offensive-minded player he was when he was in Ottawa, he is still a solid option in his own zone and could be an affordable pick-up and a bargain for some team in need of depth on the blue line.

BAD IDEA: Andy Sutton-- While some may view him as a cheaper option to pick up for a sturdy defenseman, the fact he got worse when he was dealt to a new team on the trade deadline isn't very promising. Though he is a big, hulking defensemen who can throw the body around; when he's going after those hits-- he could be a liability in his own end, as seen by his minus-10 output last season. Sure, a better team with more backing could help him out for a bit, but the odds are regardless of where he goes-- he'll be too much for too little.

FORWARDS

GOOD IDEA: Matt Cullen-- His stats may not be as explosive as some others, but he does provide some kind of depth scoring and is a solid face-off guy. He'll also go all-out for a team and do what he needs to in order to make a play for his team and try to transition out of his teams zone. He has a Cup ring, which provides experience, and has a veteran presence, which should help the younger kids coming up.

BAD IDEA: Alexander Frolov-- While he has the ability to be great, the points decline for the past three seasons, couples with the issues off the ice with him should make Frolov a deterent for teams looking at giving this Russian a new home. Especially when you look at the other Russians who have burst onto the scene, Frolov was the one time forgot and his stats decline has shown as such. Maybe a change of pace and new gameplan could help him; but it doesn't seem like a likely ideal.

GOOD IDEA: Brandon Bochenski-- You can debate that Bochenski never got a great shake in any organization he was with; starting with Ottawa where he was thrust into a position he wasn't particularly set with yet. That said, it almost seems that if there's a need for a secondary or checking line guy, Bochenski could be the energy guy who could pot a couple here and there. He could move in and out of the top-six, but would probably be more suited in a checking role guy on the fringe of the second line.

BAD IDEA: Pavol Demitra-- Sure, when he's healthy, Demitra could be a great player; albeit inconsistent at times. But, the injuries could be the big factor as it seems that as he's getting into a groove, Demitra gets hurt and totally ruins his flow in terms of getting back to his form in St. Louis. Unless he'll come down from his past $4M price tag, which you'd hope he would, then he could be worth the risk; but even then it's a sketchy situation.

GOOD IDEA: Mike Comrie-- Comrie is a poor man's Mike Fisher, and not just because of the Hilary Duff/Carrie Underwood thing. He's a solid guy in his own zone and has the ability to be an impact player....if he wanted to. While motivation could be a big concern, when he wants to be one and if he's in the right setting; Comrie could be a steal at the menial price for a fringe top-six guy. Buyer beware because Comrie could be a guy could turn unhappy at a drop of the hat.

BAD IDEA: Alexei Ponikarovsky-- When he's called upon to be on the top line of a weak team, he could be fantastic, but that's probably not a spot he would want to be in. While he does have the skills, the fact is he wouldn't use them when he's on a better team. While I'm sure he'll get offers, I don't think he'll be the secondary scorer most teams would be looking for. It should be something to see if/when he gets signed, not only how much he gets, what team, and how he'd be used.

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As always, it's a buyer beware and just an idea for what I think could be solid picks. They're very out there, I know-- but when have I ever been one for rationality?? It'll all depend on the team that picks them up and how they are utilized. And yes, there's guys like Frolov and Ponikarovsky who could venture to the KHL, but they'd probably want to stay in the NHL because they know they'll have paychecks where the KHL has been having issues with that in the past year.

The frenzy begins July 1st.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Gary Simmons

If nothing else, you can say this guy had one of the most bad-ass masks for the times. While it was the start of the era of painted masks and while he didn't need to utilize it much, it still stands out as one of the most memorable masks of the time. He was in every odd expansion place before landing in LA-- which is where the NHL Draft was this past week. Not really a connecting theme, but we'll say it is and assume I planned it out that way. This week, we look at "The Cobra" Gary Simmons.

Simmons started off his career with the Edmonton Oil Kings of the Central Alberta Hockey League. While it seems those stats from the 1960's have long been lost; the ones the stuck around are of a series that he probably wish may have not had happened. Simmons was able to carry the Oil Kings through the CAHL playoffs, taking the Abbott Cup for the Western Canadian Junior title and moved to the Memorial Cup finals against the Niagara Falls Flyers. While he had a solid 8-0 record to capture the Abbott Cup, the Flyers were too much for the Oil Kings, with the Flyers outscoring the Oil Kings 27-11 in the five games, with Simmons taking all of those goals-against. After his career in juniors, Simmons went to the IHL for the 1965-66 season, toiling between the Port Huron Flags, who moved to Des Moines and the Oak Leafs, then heading over to the Toledo Blades before the season was up.

It was a strange turn of events, seeing Simmons going to Newfoundland and playing senior hockey with the Conception Bay Cee Bees. In there, Simmons would be a solid keeper, going 23-14-0 in his first season in 1966-67, while going 9-4 in the 13 playoff games with the Cee Bees. Simmons stuck around again for the 1967-68 season with a little less luck than the previous year, going 20-17-3 in his 40 games and only playing six games and going 4-2 for the playoffs. It was a dismal season in 1968-69, with Simmons going 8-27-5 for the Cee Bees and throw into question his abilities. Simmons moved from Newfoundland back to Alberta, playing for the Calgary Stampeders of the Alberta Senior Hockey League, though he wasn't sure what he was able to do-- but put all the doubters to rest. Simmons bounced back in a big way for the 1969-70 season, going 30-8-0 in his 38 games with a 2.97 GAA. For the 1970-71 season, Simmons was picked up by the Western Hockey League's (non-junior) San Diego Gulls, where he would go 5-6-0 in 14 games for the Gulls; but wouldn't be enough to keep him for the 1971-72 season, where he would go back to the Stampeders for 21 games.

Someone from the WHL saw something in Simmons, as the Phoenix Roadrunners picked up Simmons for the 1972-73 season, where he would 18-15-2 with three shutouts on the season, playing a platoon system with Don Caley. Simmons would be back with the Roadrunners for the 1973-74 season, stepping into the starting role for Caley. He would not disappoint much, going 28-17-2 for the Roadrunners and 8-1 in the playoffs. Phoenix is where Simmons got his nickname, with his coach Bob Barlow saying that Simmons was "like a cobra" after a reporter described Simmons as a snake in the net. That would be the artwork for Simmons' mask after that point. However, that's where the reality started to become interesting and a bit more intense for Simmons.

The Roadrunners were granted WHA expansion after the 1973-74 season and the rights of the players from the WHL days were transferred over. However, in some sort of crazy situation, the NHL and WHA could trade between the leagues-- which is what happened with Simmons being traded to the California Golden Seals of the NHL for cash. Simmons would team up with Gilles Meloche as the tandem, with Simmons seeing 37 games with the Seals and going 10-21-3 for the 1974-75 season. Simmons had a small bounce-back after his subpar season, going 15-19-5 for te 1975-76 season in 40 games, closing the gap with the goalies. The Seals were moved from California to Cleveland and became the Barons, where Simmons would follow, but only get 15 games in the 1976-77 season fort he Barons (2-8-4) before he was on the move again.

The Barons sent Simmons and Jim Moxey to the Los Angeles Kings for Gary Edwards and Juha Widing. Simmons would have very little work behind Rogie Vachon in LA, playing only four games in the 1976-77 season, going 1-2-1 in them. More limited work for Simmons and more struggles with only 14 games in and a 2-7-2 record to show for it. Simmons would not make the Kings roster and would be send to the AHL's Springfield Indians, but would only play five games (2-2-1) before deciding to hang up the pads.

FOHS buddy and trade rumor royalty Lyle Richardson of Spector's Hockey did an interview with Simmons three year's ago and is definitely worth the read. Click the links for Part One and then after that Part Two.

Simmons now lives in Lake Havasu City, Arizona where he and his wife own and run a combination lingerie and adult toy store (not as good as a combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell) and it is a fitting retirement plan-- an unusual retirement for a guy with an unusual route to the NHL. One thing you can't say is that Simmons didn't pay his dues. He went all around for a place to play and did all he could to make it. It was a short-lived career, but will always be a memorable one if only for one mask.

First Round Friday: Shock and Dull

If there's nothing else to sum up the first round of the NHL Entry Draft this week, it was uneventful. For a lot of people, no one knew what was going to happen, which definitely showed in the selections after the first two picks. Even with a lack of trades, the almost four hour first round didn't provide too much electric in the crowd. If nothing else,the move of Keith Ballard to Vancouver for Steve Bernier and Michael Grabner was the highlight of an otherwise uneventful trade situation. Some bulletpoints to point out from the first day.

-The soundtrack for the Anaheim Ducks is probably going to be "Feel Good Inc." as they were able to steal not only Cam Fowler at the 12th pick, but traded for the 29th pick and took Long Beach native Emerson Etem, all of this with the haze of Scott Niedermayer's retirement still looming over-top of him. If nothing else, the Ducks should use their dropping stock for motivation in their development and maybe show some teams what they missed out on. Of course, you have to have the right players for that (read: not Angelo Esposito), but I think the mentality of these guy will fit perfectly for the vengeance angle.

-For a Draft that was suppose to be defense-heavy, only two were picked in the top-10 and eight in the first round overall. While it's a heavy debate that defensemen usually take more time to develop their game (always a case-by-case, see Doughty, Drew); the ability to have these players rights should hold more value than what some people think. If you could have someone like Cam Fowler in your system and then track his development, you have two years in order to decide if he was worth the high pick or not. Odds are, he is-- but still-- it's better to have them and not need them than to let them go by the wayside.

- If there was any doubt about hockey development in the US, the 11 players picked that were developed in the US really show how well the country is developing wanted players. Sure, the fact they haven't played a NHL game yet makes it a tad presumptuous in terms of saying that USA Hockey is getting better-- it's a good sign that they have brought them to this point and have been able to give them the chances to move onto the next level. Sure, there's some places that might not be as strong in others, but the US is a big country population-wise and you'll have a few misses here and there.

-You've got to love taking shots at an old team, especially after retirement. According to who you listen to and how you take things, that's what Mark Tinordi did when he questioned the Washington Capitals fanbase after his son Jerred was picked by the Montreal Canadiens 22nd overall. Elder Tinordi said that with them living in Millersville, Maryland (about 40minute from the old Capital Centre); Jerred didn't know about fan support and will learn it when he gets to Montreal. It's one thing to pump-up the fanbase in Montreal (like they need it), but it's another thing to knock down an organization that actually enjoyed your play during your tenure there. To each their own though and Mark will think what he thinks, but it's in bad taste to take a shot like that during the best time in your kins life.

-To say the crowd in LA was somewhat dormant would be an understatement. While some of the picks got more fanfare than others; the overall feeling of the Los Angeles crowd was stagnant. Granted, the crowds was very mixed between every kind of support, mostly with Edmonton supports, who came down in droves to see the Taylor Hall pick. Granted, the Kings pick and the selections of hometown boys Beau Bennett (20th, Pittsburgh) and Etem (29th, Anaheim) got the loudest roar; the fans were very reserved and underwhelming coming off the energy of Montreal a year prior. Granted, there's probably nothing that would match the Montreal electricity, but you'd hoped they try. Minnesota should be interesting, mostly because it'll be the US equivalent of Montreal for support.

That's all I have, because I've got nothing. In any case, we'll be doing our show, which will be coming to a YouTube near you-- probably before any shows get updated prior to that. We know, we know-- got it loud and clear.

Quick Draft Check-In

Just checking in from the Media Risers in the NHL Draft. The best bet is to check my Twitter page for insight, TwitVids, and random silliness that is...well...me. Check it out:

Twitter.com/ScottyWazz

There you go. A lot of buzz for a lot of nothing, aside from Keith Ballard going to Vancouver, mostly because he couldn't take Tomas Vokoun off the books by decapitating him.

Spakle and Fade

While the Everclear Draft Weekend doesn't start until Thursday for the FOHS fateful, that's what June 22, 2010 was for most people. Probably the most exciting non-game/event day in the recent memory of the NHL; thanks to all the news made. It had everything, but when it came to the main cog-- it fell a little short.

-First, it's started with the NHL schedule being released, the earliest in a while. While I personally didn't care, most NHL road-trippers did. I just wondered the start time of the Heritage Classic and to see if I can weasel my way into the event in some way, shape, or form. Other than that-- check out the Sensational Sean Leahy's write-up about anticipated games.

-Then, we had the trade that had the Boston Bruins picking up Nathan Horton and Greg Campbell from the Florida Panthers for Dennis Wideman, the 15th overall pick in the Draft, and a third-rounder in 2011. For the Bruins, the acquisition of Horton is an improvement, considering he has five straight seasons of 20 goals or more, something the Bruins have missed-- although the injuries issues is something that the Bruins could and should be concerned about. At least they also got the disciplinarians son in the deal as well. Wideman had a season to wipe-away, though he will be the cornerstone in the Panthers rebuilding defense. If he can improve his +/-, the Panthers may have something.

-At the same time, the Edmonton Oilers announced that Pat Quinn had stepped down as head coach and moved to Senior Adviser to the GM, making way for co-coach Tom Renney to take over. Renney was going to get this job eventually, but the fact the rebuild is in full swing, it's better they did this sooner than later. Renney's last job was with the New York Rangers and replaced Quinn once before in Vancouver. While his style isn't exciting, it's often successful for Renney. Whether it will work with the new look Oilers will remain to be seen.

-After that, the NHL said good-bye to Scott Niedermayer; as the defenseman called it a career after 18 years and leaves on 42 players left from NHL '94. Niedermayer won wherever he went and really shouldn't be waiting long after the waiting period to be elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame. I mean, four Stanley Cups, two Olympic Gold, World Juniors Gold, Memorial Cup Champion, World Championship Gold, and he ate the bowl. Not much else you can say, because it says it all in his stats and what he did when he was there. Sadly, we'll miss one of the best playoff beards ever because of this retirement.

-Then the main event-- the Hockey Hall of Fame nominees. This year, it was an allotment for four players, two women's players, and some builders. There was a lot of ruckus around who was going in, who wasn't-- but it created for great off-season debate.....but seemed to be a huge letdown in the end.

Though it is fitting, the first year that the women are introduced, they will be the majority as Angela James-- the Gretzky of women's hockey to start off with; and Cammi Granato will be going to the Hall. James was an innovator in the women's game for Canada, where she was a big fish in a developing small pond and really gave something younger girls could aspire to in Canada. Same goes with Granato, who was basically the USA version of James, only on a smaller scale. Granato did a lot for the women's game in the US and really helped pass along the torch in these new times.

That being done, only ONE spot was filled in the male side, that being Dino Ciccarelli. For a long time, many have wondered when he would get his chance. 600+ goals, 1200 points on the nose; but for some reason-- mostly media unfriendly and a bad rap from the ice-- Dino was always overlooked and pretty much pushed aside. However, in a seemingly weak class; they couldn't avoid him or the outcry of some fans now. Even though he never won a Cup, he did well on so-so teams at the start of his career, but couldn't be a hanger-on in his later years. He did enough to be the Hall of Famer he is now.

It's sad that there's only one. The debate about Adam Oates, Joe Nieuwendyk, Pavel Bure, hell-- even Eric Lindros being on the dias this year, and nothing came of it. Is it something where it was a wide-open field and other votes canceled out others?? Was the hype about this year's class something that was overdone and they weren't the spectacular to begin with?? Maybe we'll find out soon, but it seems like that many could have been looking too deep into the whole thing and overestimated the voters of the Hockey Hall, per usual.

Another thing I'm ticked about is the exclusion of Pat Burns in the Builder's category. We all know that Burns is dealing with Cancer and it would have been the best time to put the great coach into the Hall, but the voters did not. Sure, we shouldn't dismiss the fact of Jim Devellano of the Red Wings and the late Daryl Seaman of the Flames should be there-- but you would have hoped that the voters in the Hall had some kind of heart to include Burns....but....here we are.

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That was the day it was. A lot of opening acts and a somewhat disappointing headlining gig. In the end, it'll only create for more of a debate in next year's Hall of Fame-- but that's what the off-season is for. We saw new beginnings, transitions, endings, and the map for next season. It was every possible emotion fans could have in one day and not have any games played. Hope fans savored it, because it could mean we're in for a long off-season if this is the most exciting day.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Stephane Fiset

As much as you don't think-- these AGMs are a little hard to do when you don't have some inspiration. Luckily, I went to Twitter to get some options on at least a team that the AGM should come from. This pick closed out one franchise and opened up another, but knee injuries would hamper the closing years of his career. This week, we look at Stephane Fiset's career.

Fiset's career got off to a bumpy start in Midget AAA, going 8-21-1 in his time with Montreal-Bourassa. Even with that, he moved onto the QMJHL with the Victoriaville Tigres and was thrown into the starting role right away, playing 40 games with a 15-19-4. Even with a so-so record, the Quebec Nordiques took Fiset in the second round of the 1988 Draft. With a better team in front of him for the 1988-89 season, Fiset was able to play better with a 25-14-0 record; as well as an appearance in the World Junior Championship and went 3-2-1 as the Canadians finished out of the medals. Fiset would capture the CHL Goaltender of the Year honors, as well. In the 1989-90 season, Fiset started out with the Nordiques, but went 0-5-1 and was sent back to Victoriaville as he went 14-6-3 made a return to the World Juniors, where he would go 5-1-1 and take home tournament top goaltender honors as the Canadians took home the Gold.

After a quick NHL stint, Fiset made a step past junior and went to play for the Halifax Citadels of the AHL for the 1990-91 season. Fiset would fight Scott Gordon and Mike Bishop for time, but would get 36 games in, going 10-15-8. Fiset would get a call-up to Quebec late in the season, going 0-2-1 in his three games. Fiset would start the 1991-92 campaign in Halifax, with occasional call-ups to Quebec due to injuries. In Halifax, Fiset would compile a 8-14-6 record while he would sport a 7-10-2 record while with the Nordiques. After spending three games in Halifax to start off the 1992-93 season (2-1-0), Fiset would get the call-up to Quebec to back-up Ron Hextall. It was a quite a success in Quebec, as Fiset would go 18-9-4 in his 37 games behind Hextall. With that showing, the Nordiques were able to get rid of a disgruntled Hextall and put Fiset at the forefront.

The Fiset Era began at the start of the 1993-94 season, but would see Fiset sidelined for 18 games due to a slipped disc in his back. Even so, Fiset got 50 games in and would 20-25-4. The season would also include one game in Cornwall with the Aces of the AHL (one loss) and a trip to the World Hockey Championships where Fiset would win a Gold Medal and go 2-0 with the Canadians. The shortened 1994-95 season saw the Nordiques and Fiset blossom, as the team would have first seed in the East and see Fiset go 17-10-3, though he would fight off rookie Jocelyn Thibault for playing time. After Fiset slipped in the playoffs, Fiset would be benched for Thibault. However, Thibault did no better and Fiset would be put in for the last half of Game Six to close out the Nordiques organization. The Quebec team moved to Colorado and became the Avalanche in the 1995-96, which had Fiset as the starter for a time. Fiset would go 14-3-2 before the Avalanche moved Thibault for Patrick Roy. The acquisition of Roy would put Fiset to the bench and would see him go 7-3-5 to round out the year, a year the Avalanche would win the Stanley Cup and see Fiset get a ring in the process.

Fiset didn't have long to celebrate, as he was traded with a first round pick to the Los Angeles Kings for Eric Lacroix (son of Colorado GM Pierre Lacroix) and a first round pick. This was two days after the Avs won the Cup. Fiset would split time with Byron Dafoe in the 1996-97 season, but it would also start his injury issues-- as he would be hampered with groin injuries during the season. Fiset would play only 44 games with a dismal 13-24-5 record. Fiset stayed healthy in the 1997-98 season, as he would play 60 games and have a 26-25-8 record, but would only play two games in the four-game playoff sweep; as Jamie Storr took over for the other two games. The injury bug would haunt Fiset in the 1998-99 season, missing 23 games due to groin issues, but would still get 42 games in with a 18-21-1 record. Because of his injuries, the 1999-2000 season would see Fiset battle with Storr for playing time, with Fiset seeing 47 games with a 20-15-7 record. As bad luck would have it, Fiset's 2000-01 NHL campaign would be a swift one, as he would severely sprain his left knee in the pre-season, missing the first 25 games of the season. He would come back, first to play three games with the Lowell Lock Monsters of the AHL, going 1-0-2, before getting called back up to Los Angeles. He would play seven games (3-0-1) with the Kings before he would severely sprain his left knee again and miss the rest of the season, sans one 12-second stint in the playoffs.

With all his injuries, Fiset was out of the fold for the Kings in the 2001-02 season, which saw him in the AHL with the Manchester Monarchs, playing behind Travis Scott and Marcel Cousineau. Fiset would play 23 games with the Monarchs, going 7-7-6 before he was traded by the Kings to the Montreal Canadiens for future considerations. Fiset would play two games for the Habs with a one-loss record to show for it. After that season, and thanks to injuries; Fiset announced his retirement from hockey.

Fiset has dropped from the limelight, but still participates in events around the Montreal area, like the Norman Leveille Golf Classic to support the Norman Leveille Center, which supports people with a light or moderate deficiency on a physical and intellectual level.

Fiset seemed to get better as his time in one place went onward. While he did get a lot of accolades like his Cup ring and Gold Medals, it always seemed that bad luck was on his side. Whether it was because of trades to bulk up at his position or injuries that set him back when he was getting better-- he could never catch a break. Yet, at the same time-- he had a pretty good go at it, even if bad breaks came along.

An Ode to Stan

Next to me in that picture is Stan.

Stan is a guy who is always there for a laugh. He's always there for an intriguing thought. He always has an antidote for something and god knows he'll let you know about it, even if you don't want to hear it. He always made his opinion known and because he was hard of hearing (legit) for most of my life; that's probably why I'm the loud, boisterous person that I am when in conversation. Stan is a friend to everyone and really easy to get along with-- a trait I inhabited from him. He also saved me from being Stanley Junior.

Stan exposed me to hockey when he was able to get numerous tickets to Washington Capitals games because he did work around the Capital Centre and was able to make friends and score some tickets every now and again. That exposure got me to love the game. Since we were 45 minutes from Landover, Stan and I had some father/son time while driving too and from; drives that to this day we remember.

Most importantly, Stan was my motivation when playing hockey. He always got up for the early games, drove me to the 6am practices playing pee-wee, always up for the early road trips up and down I-95 during my travel year. Never a discouraging word for me, mostly because he picked up the game through me play and watching games with me on TV. He always made little points hear and there when up in the stands, but most importantly told me that regardless of what happened on the ice, as long as I had fun out there-- nothing else matter. Sure, he loved when we won-- but at the same time; the one season we had a rough year-- he always said one thing to get my mind off the loss and made me realize it was just a game. I briefly ramble on about my life in hockey over at the old Cycle Like the Sedins site.

Even to this day, even with his surgeries on his back when his life got down in the dregs-- when we talked and got through the current events-- it went right back to hockey; though he doesn't keep up with it because I'm not back in Glen Burnie to hog the remote. He listens to the show from time to time and encourages me to do what I need to do in order to succeed in what I want in life. He said that while life is a bitch, things in the universe happen to balance themselves out and happen for a reason. He always tells me to enjoy myself and to not sweat the small stuff-- because if you do; you'll never get anywhere and be a bitter, bitter person.

While Stan was a stern man, he's a fair man. He'll also tell you why not to wear sandals in Key West. Most importantly, Stan is a helluva father and really what I try to mold my fatherhood with little Kaity. I owe a lot to Stan, more than he knows or more than I'll share-- but thanks to him, I'm the person I am today. Which is either good or bad, all depends on how you view.

Happy Father's Day, Stan.

Halak to St. Louis; The (Carey) Price is Right for Montreal

In what could just cement the thought of John Davidson's hockey mind being one of the best out there; his St. Louis Blues come out of nowhere to acquire Jaroslav Halak from the Montreal Canadiens for Lars Eller and Ian Schultz, two of the Blues prospects.

With all the Blues have done in their short time of rebuilding, this is a PERFECT part to fill out the roster. Nothing against the possible goaltending, but the addition of Halak is going to give the Blues a shot in the arm they need and probably something they will need in order to finally move onto the next step. Granted, that is if Halak's run with the Habs last year was any indication of what he could do throughout the whole year. Odds are the Blues will be able to sign Halak, as Mason is a UFA and Conklin still has a year left, while the Blues has $28.5M locked up in 11 players thus far. John Davidson will find a way to get Halak signed.

That said-- it's now up to Carey Price to carry the Canadiens....that is if Cedric Desjardins doesn't bypass him during training camp and becomes the starter that way. This is such an interesting news for the Habs and their fans, as it seemed primed for Halak to re-sign and be the starter for the foreseeable future. Halak was the one who pretty much carried the team with his play, but maybe because of that-- he priced himself (no pun intended...if there is one) out of the Canadiens' long-term plans, especially with the Habs doing so much with Price and putting so much into his future over Halak, even though it seemed a scenery change would have been the best of Price after his struggles this season. Time will tell if that's still the case.

However, the Habs get two decent prospects. Eller is one of the top ones for the Blues and he has had two goals in his seven games with the Blues, while putting up 57 points in 70 games with the AHL's Peoria Rivermen in his first pro season in North America. Eller was highly touted when playing in Frolunda in Sweden and really turned it on once he got more time with the team. You can expect the same if he's in the top-6 fold for the Habs. Ian Schultz is like a Dustin Byfuglien mold-- a big-body forward, who's not afraid to mix it up in front or drop the gloves when needed. Plus, he has some decent hands and could create some plays, as well. It's not like the Habs are getting completely hosed, but it could take some time to bring these guys up-- which is something that won't go over well at all with Habs fans.

Rioting in Montreal is happening through Twitter and probably in sports bars in the area. This is not going over well and nor should it. That said, it will be a wait and see. Halak's heroics could be a one-time deal and he may lose his luster, while Price gets confidence back from this and actually lives up to expectation. Hey, crazier things have happened, but you can't do anything until the first year is done on this trade. At least this will be actual news before the draft happens.

When Listening is a Waste

According to TSN's super sleuth Darren Dreger, Oilers GM Steve Tambellini is listening to offers for the first overall pick in the Entry Draft. As of yet, Tambellini hasn't heard the right deal to trade for. In the end, there probably won't be any deal that's good enough for a rebuilding team like Edmonton to move the first pick and have their pick of the litter in order to be a cornerstone to the rebuild.

Let's be honest, though-- the kind of deal will have to be extreme for the Oilers to actually move the pick. It's a deal that most sane teams probably wouldn't do mostly because the asking price will be way too much for a young kid who probably won't hit his full potential until a few years after he's drafted. Plus, any supporting cast that he may have had would be traded the other way in order to get him. It's detrimental for the team trading the roster players for the pick because you're going off on possibility rather than reality. Plus, it's not like Edmonton is the most desirable place for players to play, as I have pointed out before. Who's to say many of the players traded would actually play to their potential if they aren't happy with the trade-- another risk that the Oilers would have to deal with in trading the pick.

The thing that I don't get is why would anyone be willing to trade away the first pick overall. Rather than tease other teams, why not just shut it down after the lottery saying you won't move it because the return probably won't be worth it unless it's for two of the top-ten in points the season prior. In fact, the last two times the first overall was moved was by the Florida Panthers in successive years and they were for the third overall pick both in the 2002 (which was Rick Nash for Jay Bouwmeester) and 2003 (Marc-Andre Fleury for Nathan Horton); both of which were Mike Keenan drafts and definite losers on both accounts.

While you did have instances like the pick being traded on the trade deadline; not knowing about the pick being the first overall, like 1998, Vincent Lecavalier's rights traded twice, then 1982 when the picks was traded in July of 1981 between the Boston Bruins and Colorado Rockies; that actually turned out better for the Colorado franchise (which moved to New Jersey) when Ken Daneyko at the 18th pick was better than Gord Kluzak. Once more in 1980 between Montreal and Colorado, where the deal was done in September of 1976 of all times.

In fact, the last time roster players were traded for the first overall pick was in 1975; when the Philadelpha Flyers traded Bill Clement (energy vampire), Don McLean, and the 18th overall pick for the first overall; which the Flyers used to pick Mel Bridgman. The Caps picked Alex Forsyth with the 18th pick and played exactly one game with the Caps; his only NHL game.

As history tell us, there's little to no chance that the Oilers will trade this pick and for them to say they are entertaining offers is a bit off the deep end and just something for people to talk about during the time from the end of the Stanley Cup Finals and the Draft...or maybe the awards show. While it's nice of Tambellini to throw people that bone, in my mind-- it's just mindless talk to get the crazy rumor mill going which will produce nothing by idiocy from all over the internet. It will take too much in order for the Oilers to give up the pick-- which is something little to no teams would do-- though I'm sure someone will come up and amaze me by doing that. Though it would make people forget the time span until the season actually starts.

World Hockey Summit Situation

It was announced on Wednesday that Daniel Alfredsson would lead up the leadership team for the Molson Canadian World Hockey Summit, which will be held in Toronto in August 23rd through the 26th. Alfredsson will be alongside Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke, women's hockey pioneer Hayley Wickenheiser, and Lightning GM Steve Yzerman. Two Canadians, an American, and a Swede. Not exactly the world, but that's neither here nor there. The whole agenda will be on growing and developing the game in every facet on every level.

Topics include skill development in younger players, what can be grown off of the 2010 Men's Olympic Games, development amongst juniors while comparing the North American and European way of developing players, and long-term agenda when it comes to world tournaments through the IIHF. However, the two topics that I'm interested in learning from will be on the development of women's hockey and the growth of participation of the game.

For the women's hockey, the key will be on what's going to happen with the development of the game. Jacques Rogge of the IOC demanded that women's hockey needed to get better or else it may see it's demise in the Olympics. While it's an obvious statement-- seeing as how Canada and the US are dominate in that field; the other countries don't seem to be developing as quickly. While Sweden did have a glimmer of hope for a second, they seemed to have decline a bit over the years; which makes it really a two-team race through and through. However, I don't know how much the other countries will be willing to give to their women's national teams. Plus, with really not many options after college; the desire to actually give money for the glass ceiling of sport is something most Olympic contingents won't be keen on giving to when they can be distributed somewhere else. While there are two professional leagues in Canada, the publicity and development of them is something that seem to be suspect at best. The suggests that come out of it will be interesting, as will the reaction by some of these competiting nations when it comes to developing their programs in one way or another.

The other topic about participation is something that is going to be probably one where lay-people will be concerned and intrigued about. Hockey, for the most part, is one of the most expensive sports at the youth level. Outside of the equipment; parents have to deal with rink fees, league fees, and traveling around the residing areas to worry about. With the tough economic times, most of the people can't afford to deal with all of that; therefore while a kid can be put into hockey-- the longevity of their career may be short lived. Plus, with all the gear becoming more and more high-tech, the price tag will continue to go higher, rather than leveling out to affordability. Those that do move on have to deal with the competitive nature of travel teams, high school teams, junior teams, or college teams; which some may or may not lose the zest for the game if they get cut one too many times. While North America and some of Europe won't be a problem, I'm sure that many would like a deeper depth pool from all around the world and maybe find a gem in the last place thought of. Yet, that gem may not be able to deal with the pricing of it-- which I noted earlier.

While the idea of the summit is solid, the fact of the matter is that most of the public will be concerned mostly with the safety of the game and the development of the game. Other issues like transfers and most levels of hockey aren't going to be a hot-button issue outside of the fandom portion of people's psyche. The development and growth are going to be what people will practically thing about it, especially those who want to put or keep their kids into hockey. Plus, while the leadership doesn't have too much diversity; the panelist and representitives of the NHL, IIHF, Canadian Hockey League, and plenty more will give a nice variety of ideas-- or so one would hope. If the rhetoric is the same from each portion, the odds are that not much will get done and we'll be in the same spot when the next summit comes around.

The odd part about this is that media and fans aren't really given much of a voice on the prospective panel of things. You would think for a game who utilizes social networking and rely heavily on the media as much as hockey does-- the voice would be more prevalent and there would be some kind of inclusion of these such ideals rather than leaving them out of panels, while making them pay $450 CDN per person for only 500 people. Especially when most of the issues will be a buzz in the blogospheres and things like that-- maybe they would open up some aspect of their summit to new media. Granted, it's still early in the announcement process for this event; but I won't hold my breath about it.

It's been 11 years since the last summit in 1999, which basically dealt with the Canadian side of things. I guess the ideal of Canada being the end-all be all has leveled out to the believe that other nations may be able to give their two-cents in about all of this. It should be an interesting thing to look forward to, especially to see what, if anything, comes from all of this. If nothing else, it'll give people something to talk about right before the start of NHL training camps in mid-September.

The Direction of Dion

The big announcement came yesterday in Toronto, the one that was going to change the way people look at the Leafs roster. Something that was about three seasons in the making and something that was whispered about for a while, but finally made official on Monday.

They'll have a shoulder patch and stripes at the hem of the jersey.

Oh, and Dion Phaneuf is a the new captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Now, GM Brian Burke said that Phaneuf was the best choice for the role and knew it when he traded for him. Many will say that Phaneuf got the role for the lack of anything else on the roster that could be considered for the captaincy, therefore-- Phaneuf wins by default. Either way, the dealing is done and Phaneuf is the 18th captain for the Maple Leafs and the first in two seasons since Mats Sundin left the team.

The question isn't really if Phaneuf has the credentials to be the captain for the Leafs. He was an alternate captain for the Calgary Flames for a time and he does have enough skills to warrant being a captain. While Burke said that Phaneuf did bring a vocal aspect of leadership to the Leafs room, which may or may not have happened in Calgary, depending on what story you listen to; he does have times where he leads by his actions whether with a big check or dropping the mitts to shift momentum. In all those aspect, you can say that Phaneuf does have what it takes through his play.

The biggest issue is whether or not Phaneuf can mentally take the role of captain for the Toronto Maple Leafs. We all know, the Toronto media is cutthroat and can love you at one moment, but try to run you out of town the next. Phaneuf did seem to be shaky when it came to criticism when dealing with the Calgary media; how will he be able to deal with 100 times that much pressure and criticism when he's in arguably the toughest market to play in?? Odds are if he gets down in the dregs and is there for a while, the heat will be on and the test of character will come through and determine if he was the right choice over having a vacated once again.

It says nothing of the 26 games, because when you trade for someone like Phaneuf; who does have a solid resume behind him; you know what you're getting and don't have to play the loyalty card to someone who may or may not be cut out for it or may not be there for the start of the season due to possible trades. Plus, it's not like they're giving it to a rookie; it's a guy who has been considered as a Norris Trophy candidate at one point and does have a lot of solid upside to him. If you have that, then the lack of games with the franchise really shouldn't matter.

In the end, the real test is going to be whether or not the new captain can take the heat from the media if the team is doing badly or he himself is doing badly. Phaneuf did have the chance to see what Jarome Iginla was able to do with the pressure when he was hounded by the media, though the personality types of Iginla and Phaneuf are night and day. Also, he'll have a decent amount of old Leafs around the area to get some pointers from if/when the heat is on. It will be another interesting sidebar to watch for the Leafs this year after, I'm sure, a whirlwind summer for the club. The one thing you can say is even when the chips are down-- Toronto keeps themselves in the fracas.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Kari Takko

While we relish in the fact that Antti Niemi is the first Finnish goalie to win the Stanley Cup, it just furthers the ideal that Finland is a goalie factory. With the likes of Miikka Kiprusoff, Pekka Rinne, and Niklas Backstrom coming from the Suomi; you have to wonder how this all came to be. It never was that way, but there were a few who forged the way for Finnish goalies. This week we look at the first one to have a regular spot in the NHL, even if in a small capacity and coming with a funny name. This week, we look at Kari Takko.

The problem when doing the European goalies is that the stats aren't often accurate or there at all. Thus, this made compiling any kind of stats extra difficult. In any case, Takko started out his career playing with Assat Pori in the Finnish League, where he would play limited time between 1979-80 until 1982-83. In that times, Takko would be on the Finnish World Junior team, being a part of Finland silver medal team in 1981 and bronze medal team in 1982. After the 1981 season, Takko was drafted by the Quebec Nordiques, but didn't seem to have the interest in going over; which saw him get more time in Pori, where he would see increased time in 1982-83 (21 games), 1983-84 (32 games, three shutouts), and 1984-85 (35 games, three shutouts, taking home the Ylonen Trophy as best goaltender). During that time, Takko was a part of the 1984 Finnish Olympic team (6th place finish) and was re-entered into the NHL Draft and selected by the Minnesota North Stars in the 1984 Draft.

Takko would eventually come over to North America to play for the Springfield Indians for the 1985-86 season. It did take some time for Takko to adjust to the North American game, which he got plenty of time to in Springfield by playing 43 games, most of all the Indians. It was a rough go, as Takko went 18-19-3. Takko did steal the hearts of the Springfield coaches and fans; winning the team MVP, team Rookie of the Year, and Most Popular Player. He was able to get a call-up to Minnesota late in the season, where he would lose his only appearance, though stopping 31 of 34 shots.

The 1986-87 season saw Takko start out with Minnesota, getting much more time behind Don Beaupre, though a slump would see him go down to Springfield for a month (3-2-0), he would play 38 games and go 13-18-4 for the year. It was a full year in Minnesota for 1987-88, though behind Beaupre and having to deal with a late-season injury that hampered him. It didn't get much better for Takko, as the North Stars weren't that good (worst in the NHL) and it showed in the 8-19-6 record. The 1988-89 season saw another back-up season for Takko, as he would start in Minnesota, backing up former AGM Jon Casey, but saw 32 games. Takko would go 8-15-4 with Minnesota, even getting playing time in the playoffs, going 0-1 in three appearances. The bottom fell out in the 1989-90 season, as Takko would struggle and play only 21 games with a 4-12-0 record. He was sent down to Kalamazoo in the IHL to start due to missing most training camp with a broken ankle. Yet, Takko would start in Minnesota for the 1990-91 season, but lost his two appearances, which sent him to Kalamazoo for five games, where he went 4-1-0.

However, with the suspension of Grant Fuhr, it opened up a market for Takko. The North Stars traded Takko to the Edmonton Oilers for Bruce Bell in November 1990. The Takko-Bell trade has been the tastiest trade in the history of the NHL, as Neil Little was never traded for anyone named Caesar. Takko would only play 11 games for the Oilers before Fuhr returned, but went 4-4-0 while backing up Bill Ranford.

It would be the last time for Takko playing in North America for a professional team, as he would return to Finland and Assat Pori, where he was welcomed back with open arms. Though the 1991-92 season would be an adjustment for him, going 13-11-2 in 28 games; Takko would return to form in the 1992-93 season with 21-16-8 record with three shutouts. Though, Takko's real homecoming would be the 1993-94 season, where he would go 25-16-7 in 48 games, with three shutouts. Those stats were enough for him to take home the Ylonen Trophy for best goaltender honors once again. The 1994-95 season was a bizarre one, with Takko going 20-18-11, but also going 4-3 in the playoffs with three shutouts, though it wasn't enough for Assat to take the SM-liiga title. The next two seasons wouldn't be kind to Takko and Assat, as Takko would have an 18-21-4 record in the 1995-96 season, while he bounced back a bit in 1996-97 with a 16-16-9 record.

Takko would migrate to the Swedish Elite League by going to HV71 for the start of the 1997-98 season, where he would play 39 games and have five shutouts in that duration. Another solid year for Takko as he would play 40 games for HV71 with another five shutouts to his record in the 1998-99 season. Takko would round out his term with HV71 playing 39 games, recording four shutouts, and had a 2.51 GAA for 1999-2000. Takko would hang up the pads for good after the 1999-2000 season.

After his playing career, Takko was named an amateur European scout for the Dallas Stars starting in the 2001-02 season. Takko now is the Director of European Scouting for the Stars.

There's a lot to be said about Takko, who seemed to have a great international career; despite the so-so NHL career he had. He seemed to be a fan favorite, as it showed from his first year with the Springfield Indians. Though he has the unfortunate luck of being with the North Stars when they were horrific, he couldn't say he didn't have the chance to make a name for himself and it seemed like he made the most of every chance he could get. When he knew his time was up in the NHL, he went back home where he excelled even more. It was just happenstance that he was at the wrong place at the wrong time for him to make Finland known as a goalie factory prior to this new renaissance.

Making a Mockery Draft

The past few years I've been doing the NHL Mock Drafts and really turning out to be a craptastic prognosticator. But, it's all in good fun, so why not try it out yet again. Maybe this year, I'll actually have some success, but even still-- I can't get into the minds of the NHL general managers; which makes it all the more challenging, but all the more fun to look ahead, as well.

While I won't explain in the main post why I picked who I picked where, I'll do what I can't explain if you question it. I will make this assumption though-- Taylor Hall will be the first overall pick because he has been consistently talked about and consistently good during his time in Windsor. Tyler Seguin kind of shot up the charts, but the Oilers need goal-scoring in a hurry and Hall will provide that more over Seguin.

DRAFT ORDER

1. EDM-- Taylor Hall, Windsor (OHL)
2. BOS (via TOR)-- Tyler Seguin, Plymouth (OHL)
3. FLA-- Brett Connolly, Prince George (WHL)
4. CBJ-- Cam Fowler, Windsor (OHL)
5. NYI-- Erik Gudbranson, Kingston (OHL)
6. TB-- Nino Niederreiter , Portland (WHL)
7. CRL-- Brandon Gormley, Moncton (QMJHL)
8. ATL-- Alex Burmistrov, Barrie (OHL)
9. MIN-- Nick Bjugstad, US High
10. NYR-- Derek Forbort, US Development Program
11. DAL-- Ryan Johansen, Portland (WHL)
12. ANA-- Mikael Granlund, Finland
13. PHX (via CGY)-- Jack Campbell, US Development Program
14. STL-- Austin Watson, Peterborough (OHL)
15. BOS-- Mark Pysyk, Edmonton (WHL)
16. OTT-- Vladimir Tarasenko, Russia
17. COL-- Quinton Howden, Moose Jaw (WHL)
18. NSH-- Evgeny Kuznetsov, Russia
19. LA-- Emerson Etem, Medicine Hat (WHL)
20. PGH-- Riley Sheahan, Notre Dame (NCAA)
21. DET-- Jarred Tinordi, US Development Program
22. PHX-- John McFarland, Sudbury (OHL)
23. BUF-- Tyler Pitlick, Minnesota State (NCAA)
24. ATL (via NJ)-- Alex Petrovic, Red Deer (WHL)
25. VAN-- Jeffrey Skinner, Kitchener (OHL)
26. WSH-- Brock Nelson, US High
27. MTL-- Jaden Schwartz, Tri-City (USHL)
28. SJ-- Calvin Pickard, Seattle (WHL)
29. ANA (via PHI)-- Dylan McIlrath, Moose Jaw (WHL)
30. CHI-- Charlie Coyle, South Shore (EJHL)

Odds are I won't do any well; mostly because I either went too on the line with some picks and too far out of reach on others. It's always a mind game, which I stink at more often than not. I'll be there in person, so if you hear about a guy yelling at each pick like a lunatic-- odds are it'll be me.

On the Topic of Hossa and Bourque

I don't know why this thought came across my mind, but it just randomly hit me as I wake-up to the fact that the hockey season is over. However, it is my belief that Marian Hossa's Cup moment is BETTER than Ray Bourque's moment. While, both were able to get the Cup directly after the captain; I think there's more of a relief off of Hossa lifting the Cup than Bourque lifting it up.

While both moments are great, the sense of relief I felt for Hossa after twice being denied the chance to lift it in consecutive years, then signing a 12-year deal-- many wondered if he'd be ever able to win the Cup after the bad luck he had, including the shoulder injury to start the year. For a guy who was so close for the past two years; the weight off his shoulders is tremendous and you could see the excitement in his face once he got passed the Cup, almost reluctant to touch it because he thought the others were more worthy to touch it after Jonathan Toews, then when he got it-- you knew he didn't want to let it go.

Conversely, the Bourque moment was a nice, touching moment; but it wasn't like Bourque ever got close to it before-- which is something that may have made his moment emotional for the fact it was it third Finals appearance, first in 11-year break in-between; the last time being swept in 1990 against Edmonton. While the emotion was there, I think Bourque could have lived with himself and been able to sleep well at night if he hadn't won a Cup. Granted, that wouldn't have made up for him not being able to win the ultimate prize, but he would have always been know as one of the best defensemen in the modern era.

But at the same time, both did win Cups. Great players like Dino Ciccarelli, Marcel Dionne, Mike Gartner, and Darryl Sittler do not have Cup rings, but still considered to be some of the best guys out there. That's a list that Bourque would have fell into, but probably not Hossa-- especially in the era that he is playing in.

With all that said-- both were very touching and relief moments for both of these players. Granted, if you ask me-- Lanny McDonald's moment in 1989 was the best. Being the captain for the clinching game and being the first to touch the Cup after winning it; his first in his 16-year career-- now that's a way to go out.

My point probably isn't right to some/to most/to anyone except me; but I'm sticking to it. Let me know how you feel in the comments.....or not.