Thanks For Coming Out, 2013 San Jose Sharks

Is there need for a change in San Jose?? After their second-round exit this season, you have to wonder if the cogs that are in place now are actually going to be good enough to move forward and be successful. With a coach that has his job in the balance, you can bet that changes will be made in off-season to give the Sharks a chance....or to rebuild.

With one year left on Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Joe Pavelski, and Logan Couture's contracts, you can bet those names-- especially the first two-- are going to be looked at to move. Granted, Thornton and Marleau both have No-Move Clauses, as well as Pavelski and Couture being the cornerstones of the future of the Sharks-- it's hard to believe any of them can and would be moved-- though you could always make a case for Marleau, who has his name in the trade rumors forever.

While Antti Niemi is holding down the goaltending duties, the question in net is whether or not Thomas Greiss will be re-signed or stay in the NHL at all. If Greiss, who is an UFA, doesn't choose to stay; the big deal would be to get someone as a back-up to Niemi who could shoulder the load for 10-15 games for next season and give the Sharks quality starts.

Defensively, Dan Boyle turned on his offensive prowess during the playoffs after a middling during the regular season, especially since Brent Burns was converted to forward-- the blue line needed a bigger punch. Marc-Edouard Vlasic was solid on the blue line despite not playing while the lockout happened. However, one guy who is making a name for himself is Matt Irwin, who has played well in the AHL and should make a nice transition as the next offensive producing defenseman once Boyle's contract expires.

While Doug Wilson said that Todd McLellan and his staff would be back for the 2013-14 season, who knows how long into the season they'll be still there, but a lot of that depends on the moves that the Wilson makes in the off-season. For the Sharks, they've always seemed to be the team that's ready to make a big push, but they fall short in the end. There's going to come a time where these results aren't going to be a enough and there will be a huge change.

Long-Layoff in a Short Season

In most cases, teams may dread a long layoff in the playoffs. It's too much time between series for them to get rusty to the game action and for them to lose an important game to start, which could kill their hot streak. Yet, in a truncated season like this-- it could actually go on to help the San Jose Sharks.

The grind of a short season is something that affected all the teams, most of which had to have a playoff mentality through the midway point of the short season to make it to the playoffs. For the Sharks, this would also help in the healing of players like Martin Havlat, Tommy Wingels, Jason Demers, and Adam Burish, who heal up from their wounds from Round One. Luckily for the Sharks is that they ranked 21st in Man Games Lost (249), which should just allow a small breather for players like Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, Antti Niemi, and Joe Pavelski.

But can the momentum be regained quickly?? With the hot hands of Pavelski and Logan Couture; the thought that if they don't get out there sooner rather than later would lose the magic touch is out there, regardless of the grind they went through during the season. Also, with the Sharks as a 6-seed, they'll start on the road unless Red Wings and Wild pull of upsets. The lack of home-ice advantage would be rough in order to shake the rust off for a long-layoff, but at least knowing their destination ahead of time will leave great time for them to travel to either Chicago or Anaheim.

Throwing to the comparison of the 1995 Playoffs; the Devils, Flyers, and Red Wings won their first round match-ups in five games; their second round match-ups had the Flyers and Wings sweep with the Devils winning in five; then the Devils over the Flyers in six, with the Wings beating the Blackhawks in five, then the Devils sweeping the Wings. All the early movers in the first rounds used the rest to their advantage, and maybe the Sharks can draw off of that tidbit of short-seasons past.

Whether or not the rust will be there for a minute, a period, or a game-- the Sharks do have some time to actually breathe and rest up and regroup-- as they luckily didn't get hurt by losing three of their last four regular season games, they just need to not get too rested or else they could get caught in the first couple games against their opponent who may have weaker legs, but more recent game-play experience.

Goals Aplenty In Anaheim, Nash Crowns Kings

Pavelski with the game-winner

1st Star: Joe Pavelski, SJ: 2 goals

2nd Star: Saku Koivu, ANA: Hat trick

3rd Star: Logan Couture, SJ: Hat trick

In a non-defensive game, both Anaheim's Saku Koivu and San Jose's Logan Couture netted hat-tricks, but it was Logan Couture's two-goal game, his second the OT winner, that boosted the Sharks over the Ducks. Corey Perry netted the other goal for the Ducks. 

1st Star: Brad Richards, NYR: 2 goals

2nd Star: Rick Nash, NYR: 2 goals

3rd Star: Derek Stepan, NYR: 1 goal, 1 assist 

The banner raising night for the Los Angeles Kings were quickly dashed as the Rangers jumped on the Kings early and often, finishing the night with a 5-2 victory. Rick Nash's debut was effective with two goals and Brad Richards got a jump-start with two of his own. Anze Kopitar and Dustin Penner scored for the Kings. 

Rick Nash's first as a Ranger

Are The Sharks Circling For McLellan??

After the San Jose Sharks were eliminated, you knew that Todd McLellan was going to be on a short leash if he was retained. Well, with McLellan being retained, but his assistants not-- the question was whether or not the coaches hired would be those of help or possible competition. This time, it could be a little of both.

This past week, the Sharks have hired Stanley Cup winning coach Larry Robinson as their new "associate" coach, while former interim coach for the Phoenix Coyotes and defensive specialist Jim Johnson was hired on Tuesday as an assistant coach. The only thing that would make these hirings more damning for McLellan would be the dreaded "vote of confidence" being given. 

It's a shame that McLellan has to feel this heat, especially after he's appeared it the Conference Finals two of the four seasons he's been at the helm, though the other two playoff appearances have been first round exits. Granted, the additions could help out McLellan-- Robinson helping guide him on the right path to actually make him a coach that can get over that hump the Sharks have seemed to be stuck on. Johnson could be able to even out the penalty kill that was pretty craptastic during the season. This could definitely be a nice little motivator for him with no underlying tone to it.

Yet, it won't stop people like me from speculating on it all, especially when previous coaches in the past haven't been able to get to that next level. Ron Wilson and Darryl Sutter were eventually fired because of bad performances in the playoffs, but you have to believe that McLellan is a guy who has done a lot with this team-- but is it him that's not getting the results or the team not being able to knuckle-down and get the results that are needed to not only make the coach look good-- but make their franchise not look like walkovers. 

But it's the old adage of "you can't fire the players, so you fire the coach." For a team like the Sharks, it's a matter of getting over that seemingly eternal mental block that this team has had when it comes to getting to the Stanley Cup finals. While it's a tough task to accomplish, the reality of the situation is that the Sharks have been overvalued when it comes to being a dominant player for the Stanley Cup. They have a good team, but it's not one that should be given the praise that they have been given over the past couple of seasons. That will be there downfall-- not the coaching, not the players-- it's the hype. 

Thanks For Coming Out, San Jose Sharks

(While many have their obtiuaries for teams eliminated.....I'll do the same thing, but in a different/same way as others. How is that going to happen?? Well, I don't know until I do them.This all meant in good fun and to really make you think....or something) 

There was a time where every year, people thought the San Jose Sharks had what it needed to win the Stanley Cup. And it's not just there, there's been plenty others before them. Even so, the Sharks again have underachieved this season, falling short of their goal and look ahead to a long summer in the Bay.

With this latest early exit, the clock has to be ticking for Doug Wilson and Todd McLellan. Wilson, for sure, will be on the hot seat, as he has been with the team for years and while coming close to the Finals a couple of times-- never reached it. His message to ownership may be getting stale, which could mean a regime change for the Sharks.

This is also a team that has too much money wrapped up in too few players, having over $55M wrapped up in only 14 players. While some of their young guns are RFA in the summer, the odds of the Sharks trying to move Patrick Marleau will be high this off-season. Sure, Marleau does have a no-movement clause, but you have to wonder if there's going to be much convincing needed for him to maybe lift it and move elsewhere. Joe Thornton won't go anywhere and it seems Martin Havlat has been poisonous with moving every off-season, which could mean teams aren't going to fall for it anymore....but a sucker is born every minute.

Even with goaltender Antti Niemi back there, the Sharks weren't able to summon the magic he had back in the 2010 playoffs. Even still, Niemi played a decent regular season-- helping a pretty mediocre 7th spot, while also making sure he was the main guy by pretty much running Antero Niittymaki out of town. This is Niemi's team and he really doesn't have anyone to blame but himself if there are short-comings in net.

At the end of the day, the Sharks are just being the Sharks. Much like other teams with high expectations in the pre-season, the results are less than to be desired. This is a season to forget for the Sharks and could start their possible downfall, but a new man at the helm could possible end this tailspin and right this ship.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Wayne Thomas

This week's AGM does have quite the track record-- being a Stanley Cup winner, to taking over for a star goalie, to being rostered, but never playing a game in the season. For all the hallowed franchises he play with, he would take his knowledge of the game to behind the bench and into the the front office. This week, the profile of Wayne Thomas.

Thomas started his trek in Junior A with the Ottawa Jr. Senators from 1965 until 1967, as well as playing with the Morrisburg Combines in the 1967 Allan Cup. Starting in the 1967-68 season, Thomas started to play for the University of Wisconsin, though he would not play in his first year. Thomas did see time in the 1968-69 season for the Badgers, going 9-6-1 in 16 games. In the 1969-70 season, Thomas compiled a 14-7-0 record in 21 games, helping him receive Second-Team All-Star honors in the WCHA.

Thomas was initially property of the Toronto Maple Leafs, but would traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1968,  then the Kings would trade him to the Montreal Canadiens in 1970. After leaving Wisconsin-- Thomas would play for the AHL's Montreal Voyageurs for the 1970-71 season going 8-17-6 in 33 appearances. The Voyageurs moved to Nova Scotia for the 1971-72 season, which seemed to help Thomas; who finished that season with a 22-8-10 record in 41 games. Thomas only played in six games for Nova Scotia in the 1972-73 season, before getting the call by the Montreal Canadiens, where he'd play 10 games with an 8-1-0 record. Despite not dressing for a playoff game, Thomas received a Stanley Cup ring and included in the team picture at the end of the season-- but is not engraved onto the Stanley Cup.

With Ken Dryden opting to study law for the 1973-74 season, Thomas assumed the starting role-- playing in 42 games, finishing with a 23-12-5 record while splitting time with Bunny Larocque and Michel Plasse. Yet, in the 1974-75 season, Thomas was listed on the active roster for the Canadiens, but never played a single minute the entire season.

With his time in Montreal done, the Canadiens traded Thomas to the Toronto Maple Leafs before the 1975-76 season, where Thomas would take the starting role, going 28-24-12 in 64 games and a 5-5 playoff record. Thomas would also play in the 1976 All-Star Game. However, the 1976-77 season would be a little rough for Thomas, who lost his starting job and only appear in 33 games with a finishing record of 10-13-6 and 1-2 in the playoffs.

Before the 1977-78 season, the New York Rangers claimed Thomas in the Waiver Draft, though he struggled in his 41 games that season, finishing with a 12-20-7 record and 0-1 in the playoffs. Thomas's time in the pipes dwindled in the 1978-79 season, seeing only 31 games, but putting together a 15-10-3 record for the season. Thomas split his time in the 1979-80 season between the Rangers for 12 games (4-7-0) and five games with their AHL affiliate, the New Haven Nighthawks (5-0-0). Thomas would make one last gasp at playing int he 1980-81 season with the Rangers, but would go 3-6-1 in 10 games before he would hang-up the pads in retirement.

Not long after his retirement, Thomas went into the coaching ranks-- first with the Rangers as a goalie and then assistant coach, then getting his first head coaching job in the IHL with the Salt Lake Golden Eagles from 1985 to 1987, winning the 1986 Turner Cup with them; then onto the Peoria Riverman from 1988-90. Thomas would be promoted to assistant coach of the St. Louis Blues from 1990 until 1993, when he moved to be part of the coaching staff for the San Jose Sharks.

In March of 1996, Thomas was promoted to Sharks assistant General Manager and General Manager to their AHL team, which is the Worcester Sharks at the moment.

Though he had quite the ride for his playing career, his hockey sense allowed him to actually get an idea and prepared for something outside his playing career-- which he has turned into a great position and one of the respected front office people for the Sharks organization.

What's Next 2011: San Jose Sharks

While they did win one more game than they did in last season's playoffs-- the Sharks really have some interesting questions to ask themselves, especially when the production of their top stars was so far off of last year's pace.

We'll start there, as the big-three of Patrick Marleau (-10 in points from last year), Dany Heatley (-18), and Joe Thornton (-19) were very off kilter. Luckily, the role players like Joe Pavelski and Ryane Clowe were able to help counterbalance the lack of production that the big-three didn't put up. Rookie Logan Couture was also a pleasant surprise for the Sharks this season; potting 32 goals and 56 points; allowing the Sharks to see that they have a bright future. Another concern for the Sharks is that Heatley was virtually invisible during the playoffs, going goalless in the last eight games, only collecting three assists in those games-- which could create issues for the remaining three years of his contract, which holds a no-movement clause.

Defensively, Dan Boyle had a slight hiccup, but he was able to actually keep the offensive side of things going for the Sharks, while Jason Demers definitely cemented his regular spot for the line-up with his play and leading the team in plus/minus rating. When Ian White came over from Carolina, he provided a solid help, but it's doubtful he'll be back considering how well that Justin Braun played in his 28 games coming up from Worcester. Douglas Murray was again solid for the Sharks (for the most part), while Marc-Edouard Vlasic played stellar in his stay-at-home role he plays.

The goaltending of Antti Niemi was shaky at the start, only putting up only five wins in 12 games in the first two months, but while Antero Niittymaki couldn't overtake the starting gig that was handed to him; Niemi took hold. Niemi showed that he could be a starter in this league and his Stanley Cup victory was no fluke at all. With Niemi locked up long-term, it's his team to guide. Niittymaki only has one more year left, but he probably won't see much time behind Niemi.

I don't know if the Sharks could every wipe off the "choker" label, despite being in the Western Finals for two years straight. The fact is that this is a team that always comes short on expectations, which could be due to the high expectations they have set on them. Whichever way you dice it, the signs of greatness for this team is there-- it's a matter of following through on the actual signs.

Chronic Prognosticator: Conference Finals

It's finally time for the Conference Finals and the Final Four teams couldn't be more.....I guess evenly matched could be a good word for it, but these should be some solid series; though it'll take a lot to match the San Jose/Detroit series or Vancouver/Chicago side.

Well.....let's do it.

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
(3) Boston Bruins vs. (5) Tampa Bay Lightning

This will be a chess-match. The fact that both these teams are leading the way in the East proves that defense wins championships. The big issue will be not only trying to figure out each of these goalies-- but also which team can transition better off their defensive strong-point.

When it comes down to it, I think Tampa has a better edge and have shown a little bit more depth in their line-up. Not to say the Bruins don't have that, but who would have thought that Sean Bergenheim would have seven goals and Steve Downie have 10 assists?? Those are two guys who are really helping out beyond the top guys of Martin St. Louis, Vincent Lecavalier, and Steven Stamkos.

However, the Bruins definitely have a defensive edge with Zdeno Chara and Andrew Ference on the back-end. The fact Timmy Thomas is up for a Vezina should tell you that he's got the credentials to get a team through the worst, but he does have his own bouts of meltdowns.

PREDICTION: Tampa Bay Lightning in Seven Games
WHY??: It'll be a struggle in this series with these two, but I think the Bolts have really shown their gumption with Guy Boucher behind the bench and the long layoff will serve them well in resting a guy like Dwayne Roloson, who is up there and may not have been able to taken the grind of one series after another.

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
(1) Vancouver Canucks vs. (2) San Jose Sharks

While we had hoped these two would be in their Conference finals-- not many people thought they could actually get to it and face each other. A lot of people on the Twitter even said this could be the first series where both teams would lose-- which I would like to see, actually.

When it comes to the Canucks, it was great for them to get Ryan Kesler back into the fold, but now it's about getting the Sedins into it. This series could be a wide-open event, which could bring in the Sedins nicely-- but if they can't get it going from Game One; it could be another series of commentators questioning them night-after-night.

The Sharks should be happy not to choke a 3-0 lead in the second round, but at the same time-- it's a warning for them. The fact we'll see a Joe Thornton and Kesler match-up in the face-off dot is exciting. The big deal is Ryane Clowe and Logan Couture carrying the Sharks in the scoring, which needs to be a wake-up call for Patrick Marleau and Dany Heatley-- who have been virtuall invisible.

PREDICTION: San Jose Sharks in Six Games
WHY??: While the goaltending and defensive breakdown hurt the Sharks psyche a bit-- the fact remains they are getting a lot from their depth guys and can put distance on themselves when needed. Both teams are going to be urged to get their offense going quickly because the minute they rattle the oppositions goalie-- the better the chances to making it a quick series.

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

Absurd Goalie Monday: Steve Shields

As we sit here looking at the Michigan Wolverines in the NCAA Finals, we look at one former Michigan goalie jumpstarted Michigan's 21 straight tournament appearances, and made it to two Frozen Fours, but never got to the final game. Then he was able to make it into the show and had a steady career, including three fights with fellow goalies (Steve Passmore, Sean Burke, and Garth Snow). Even so, he's been coast-to-coast and took his technological skills in his new career. This week, a look at Steve Shields.

Shields started off with the North Bay Trappers and St. Mary Trappers of Junior A leagues in Ontario before committing to the University of Michigan. Starting in the 1990-91 campaign, Shields would jump into starter's role, playing in 37 games with a 26-6-3 record, which was enough for him to get drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1991 Draft. In his sophomore campaign in 1991-92, Shields went 27-7-2 in 37 games with a 2.84 GAA, helping Michigan to the Frozen Four, but losing in OT in their match-up. During his Junior year, Shields was more than capable to carry the 39 game workload, going 30-6-2 with two shutouts and a 2.22 GAA, getting the Wolverines to the Frozen Four again, but failing to advance past the four. Shields was named CCHA First Team All-Star and NCAA-West Second Team All-Star squad. For his senior season, Shields went 28-6-1 in 36 games while helping Michigan to the CCHA championship, their first ever. Shields again took home CCHA First Team All-Star and NCAA-West Second Team All-Star honors. Shields would leave school with the NCAA record for most wins (111), but it was broken by another Wolverine, Marty Turco (127).

After college, Shields would start his pro career in both Rochester of the AHL and South Carolina of the ECHL. While in Rochester, Shields played 13 games, sporting a 3-8-0 record; while in South Carolina he went 11-5-2 in 21 games, with two shutouts. The 1995-96 season would see Shields step up in Rochester, going 20-17-2 in 43 games; while also getting two games up in Buffalo, going 1-0-0. In the playoffs, Rochester and Shields would dominate, as he would go 15-3, as Rochester won the Calder Cup. Shields would start off the 1996-97 season with Rochester, playing 23 games with a 14-6-2 record before getting the recall from Buffalo to end the season, where he would go 3-8-2 in 13 regular season games, but then go 4-6 in 10 playoff games. Shields would be up with the Sabres for the 1997-98 season, playing in 16 games with a 3-6-4 record, while spending a game in Rochester, which was a losing effort.

During the 1998 Entry Draft, Shields and a pick were traded to the San Jose Sharks for former AGM Kay Whitmore and a pick. The 1998-99 season saw Shields play behind Mike Vernon, playing 37 games with a solid 15-11-8 record, 2.22 GAA and .921 save percentage. That performance allowed the Sharks to get rid of Vernon in the 1999-2000 season and Shields took the starting role, playing in 67 games, with a 27-30-8 then going 5-7 in the playoffs. The 2000-01 season was one of injury for Shields, as he would go down to an ankle injury early-- opening the door for Evgeni Nabokov to take over the starting role. Shields got his time in, playing 21 games and going 6-8-5 before going down with an injury with his shoulder ligaments. With Nabokov gaining stardom and the wealth of prospect goalies in their system, Shields would be the odd-man out.

During the trade deadline of 2001 and days before his shoulder injury-- Shields and Jeff Friesen were traded to the Anaheim Mighty Ducks for Teemu Selanne. While he didn't play with the Ducks in 2000-01, he came back for the 2001-02 season playing along J-S Giguere, but wouldn't fare well, going 9-20-2 in 33 games.

During the 2002 Draft, Shields was traded to the Boston Bruins for a third-round pick, where he would be a part of a carousel of goalies, but would get the most game-time out of five keepers to play that year with a 12-13-9 record in 36 games.

Before the start of the 2003-04 season, Shields would be traded to the Florida Panthers for future considerations. Shields would only play 16 games behind Roberto Luongo with a 3-6-1 record.

Shields didn't play anywhere during the lockout season of 2004-05, but would return after the season started in 2005-06-- signing with the Atlanta Thrashers. Shields would go 1-2-1 in five games and would have played four games in the AHL with the Chicago Wolves, finishing with a 2-2-0 record.

One more kick in the can for Shields in the 2006-07 season, signing as a free agent with the AHL's Houston Aeros, but would only play one game in relief, letting up three goals on nine shots in that appearance. After that, Shields would hang-up the pads.

After his pro career was over, Shields would continue to play in the Northeast with amateur teams as a forward. Currently, Shields has gotten his hands into the technology and coaching segment, helping to start up iCoach.com, a remote coaching site for a mass of teams and coaches.

While there was a lot of promise, Shields never got a good shake with solid teams to solidify what he could have done with some teams. When he got on later in his career, he got stuck behind other goalies who had a step up on him in the system or was on a team that was in a rebuild and didn't have the parts to help him out. That said, the college career from Shields was one that will be remember and could be credited to jumpstarting that program again.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Jarmo Myllys

While the goaltenders of Finland nowadays were very sought after, back in the late-80s/early-90s-- that wasn't the case. Many of them had a rough transition period and could never get settled in, which is the case for this week's AGM. While he was part of the possible first Finnish tandem, it never really came together. This week, we profile the career of Jarmo Myllys.

Before we go forward, a note-- thanks to the apparent lack of record-keeping or technology in European hockey; the stats of Myllys when playing overseas are a bit sketch and therefore unavailable for most seasons.

When he first came into the scene in 1982-83, Myllys played for the Finnish Second-League team SaPKo Savonlinna, where he played for 13 games. That said, he didn't get more noticed than during the European Junior Championships, where he played four games with a 2.70 GAA. Due to his performance, Myllys was named Best Goaltender and to the All-Star team. For the 1983-84 season, Myllys went up to the premier league in Finland, SM-liiga, playing for Ilves Tampere, but only getting in nine appearances with a 3.00 GAA. Myllys would get back into the swing of things in the World Juniors of 1984, going 3-1-0 in four games for Finland, helping them to a Silver Medal. Myllys would play nine more games for Ilves Tampere, with a 2.55 GAA; but going only 1-0-0 in one appearance in the WJC.

For the 1985-86 season, Myllys played 16 games for Ilves Tampere; while in the 1986-87, Myllys would move over to Lukko Rauma, appearing in 43 games with a 16-20-7 record. Myllys also played in the World Hockey Championships, going 4-3-1 in eight games. That helped him get drafted in the 9th Round by the Minnesota North Stars. It was a banner year for Myllys in the 1987-88 season, where he would play in the Canada Cup for one game, then back to the Lukko Rauma for 43 games, which included five shutouts and a 3.13 GAA. Yet, his biggest accomplishment of the season was during the Olympics, where he would go 4-1-1 in six games, leading Finland to a Silver Medal. Myllys would end the year with Finnish Player of the Year honors and named to the Finnish First Team All-Stars.

Myllys made the leap to North America for the 1988-89 season, starting off with the North Stars. However, with three losses in his first three appearances, Myllys was sent to the IHL's Kalamazoo Wings, playing in 28 games with a 13-8-4 record. Myllys would finish that season with a 1-4-0 record with the North Stars. The 1989-90 season would be a breakout in the IHL for Myllys, as he would go 31-9-3 in 49 appearances, which got him named to the IHL's Second Team All-Star roster. Myllys would also play in four games for the North Stars, but would go 0-3-0. Myllys started the 1990-91 season with the North Stars for three games on their French Tour, then for two games in the regular season. However, going 0-2-0, Myllys was sent back to Kalamazoo; where he would excel again compiling a 24-13-1 record in 38 games; then going 6-4 in the playoffs. It was another year for Second Team All-Star honors for Myllys.

However, during the Expansion/Dispersal Draft of 1991, Myllys was claimed be the expansion San Jose Sharks. Myllys would have an up and down year, going 3-18-1 in 27 games for the Sharks, but going 5-0-0 with the Kansas City Blades of the IHL.

Myllys was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the summer of 1992, but decided to return to Finland for the 1992-93 season, with KooKoo Kouvola of the Finnish Second League-- going 27-13-5 in 45 games. Myllys would return to Lukko Rauma for the 1993-94 season, where he would go 26-16-4 in his 46 games of work, as well as returning to the Olympics in 1994, going 5-0-0 with two shutouts and a 0.60 GAA; helping the Finns to a Bronze Medal. Myllys would also play in the World Championships, playing in seven games helping the Finns to a Silver Medal.

From the 1994-95 season until the 2000-01 season, Myllys would play 284 games with Lulea HF; compiling 31 shutouts and ending with a 2.59 GAA in those games. However, like I mentioned at the start-- no records from those years sadly.

However, the international play helped Myllys' career for records, as he would represent Finland plenty. It started with the 1995 World Championships, as Myllys went 5-1-1 in seven games, leading the Finns to their first ever Gold Medal in the event. Myllys took home the Best Goaltender honors in the tournament, as well. However, in the 1996 World Championships-- Myllys went 0-2-2 in four games, as the Finns would bow out in the Quarterfinals. Myllys went to the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, but would go 1-1-0 in two games, as Finland was knocked out in the Quarters again. The 1997 World Championships had Myllys get some swagger back, going 4-2-0 in six games with a 1.67 GAA, but they did not past the Quarters again. The 1998 Olympics wouldn't give Myllys the super skills he had in Olympics past, as he would go 1-3-0 in four games, but would be rostered on the Bronze Medal team. Myllys played two games in the 1998 World Championships with a 1-1-0 record and would add another Silver Medal to his showroom. It wouldn't be until the 2001 World Championship that Myllys would be back with Finland, but he would only be a spare and not play in any games for the Finns, as they would take home Silver.

Myllys return to the SM-liiga for the 2001-02 season with Blues Espoo, playing in 46 games with a 19-19-7 record, then 0-3 in the playoffs. Back with Espoo in the 2002-03 season, Myllys would only see 19 games of action with an 8-5-5 record, then 3-4 for seven games in the playoffs. The 2003-04 season saw Myllys return to SaiPa Lappeenranta, playing in 34 games with a 9-15-7 record, as well as seeing seven games of action with HV 71 Jonkoping of the Swedish Elite League. Myllys would go back to Finland with SaiPa Lappeenranta for the 2004-05 season, where he would put together a 10-25-10 second in 45 games. After that, he would hang up the pads in his playing career.

Myllys would stay with SaiPa Lappeenranta as the goalie coach, which is where he's at today.

While he could never get adapted to the North American game despite trying as much as he could-- the success he had for his country is something that many of the European players hold in higher regard, even to this day. With a Gold and a couple of Silvers and Bronzes with Suomi; Myllys can hang his hat on bringing pride to his country on the highest of stages.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Wade Flaherty

For a guy who played 20 seasons in professional hockey, I don't know if there's an AGM who has played less in the show than this week's inductee. Of course, this goalie became a folk-hero in many of the places where he played and even took his craft across the pond to use his expertise to expand a sport in a nation just getting into the game. This week, we look at the career of Wade Flaherty.

Flaherty's career started in Terrace, BC with the Terrace Titans; he did get one game in with the WHL's Kelowna Wings-- but it was a no-decision. The 1985-86 season had Flaherty play mostly with the PCJHL's Williams Lake Mustangs, being called up by the Seattle Thunderbirds for nine games (1-3-0) and then with the Spokane Chiefs for five games (0-3-0). The 1986-87 season would have Flaherty with the BCJHL's Nanaimo Clippers for 15 games before he would be called up to the WHL again, this time with the Victoria Cougars. Flaherty would only play in three games, going 0-2-0 in those games.

Flaherty would settle in with Victoria for the 1987-88 season, playing 36 games finishing with a record of 20-16-0; then going 2-3 in the playoffs. That season was enough for Flaherty to get drafted in the ninth round by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1988 Draft. The 1988-89 season had Flaherty back with Victoria, taking on a bigger role with 42 games in net and a 21-19-0 record in his last year of junior eligibility.

The 1989-90 season would see Flaherty start his pro career with the ECHL's Greensboro Monarchs. Flaherty split time with Nick Vitucci during the regular season, playing 27 games with a 12-9-1 record; but took over the reigns during the playoffs, going 9-2 to help lead the Monarchs win the Riley Cup as ECHL champions. Flaherty was named Playoff MVP for his efforts.

Without getting signed by the Sabres, Flaherty signed with the San Jose Sharks in the summer of 1990 and would start off with the IHL's Kansas City Blades for the 1990-91 season. Flaherty would play 56 games, though it would only yield a 16-31-4 record for him. The 1991-92 season would be better in KC for Flaherty, as he would go 26-14-3 in 43 games with the Blades; as well as sharing the James Norris Trophy for fewest goals-against with Arturs Irbe. That year would also see Flaherty get a call-up for three games in the NHL with the Sharks, losing all three games. Flaherty continued to get better in Kansas City into the 1992-93 season, going 34-19-7 in 61 games, then going 6-6 in 12 playoff games. Another call-up that season by the Sharks and another loss. The 1993-94 season had Flaherty strictly in Kansas City, getting in 60 games for the season with a 32-19-9 record.

The shortened-season of 1994-95 afforded Flaherty to get a full-time gig in San Jose, where he would play 18 games with a 5-6-1 record, while also getting time in the playoffs with a 2-3 record. Flaherty would stay in San Jose in the 1995-96 season, playing in a system with many goalies fight for space, but managed to get 24 games behind Irbe and former AGM Chris Terreri; which saw Flaherty go 3-12-1 on an abysmal Sharks team. More congestion in net and a broken collarbone would see Flaherty get only seven games in San Jose with a 2-4-0 record; as well as getting sent to the AHL's Kentucky Thoroughblades, where he would get in 19 games and put up a record of 8-6-2 record and a 1-2 playoff record.

With the logjam in San Jose, Flaherty signed with the New York Islanders before the 1997-98 season, where he was sent to the IHL's Utah Grizzlies to start off the season. After going 16-5-3, Flaherty got the call-up to the Islanders, where he would post a 4-4-3 record in 16 games; three of those wins coming by shutout. Flaherty made the Isles opening day roster, but would be sent down to the AHL's Lowell Lock Monsters shortly after that, where he would go 1-3-1 in five games before getting called up to the Islanders for 20 games which would have him go 5-11-2. The 1999-2000 campaign would be short-one for Flaherty, as he would only play four games (0-1-1) on Long Island before he would go out to shoulder surgery. He would return for the 2000-01 season, playing in 20 games with a 6-10-0, before he was dealt.

Flaherty was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a conditional draft pick, but would only play in two games-- losing both.

The summer of 2001 saw Flaherty sign with the Florida Panthers, but would spend most of his season with the AHL's Utah Grizzlies, playing in 45 games with a 22-13-5 record. Flaherty would get a call-up to Florida for four games with a 2-1-1 record. The 2002-03 season had Flaherty in the AHL again, this time with the San Antonio Rampage, going 11-13-5 in 30 games before his NHL affiliation was on the move again.

Flaherty was traded by the Panthers to Nashville for Pascal Trepanier, but Flaherty's time in Nashville would be short-lived, as he would play only one game, a loss. The 2003-04 season had Flaherty stay in the Predators organization, but in the minors with the AHL's Milwaukee Admirals. During the regular season, Flaherty would play only 36 games, compiling a 21-12-3 record; but much like his first pro season, Flaherty shined in the playoffs-- going 16-5, helping the Admirals win the Calder Cup. Flaherty won the Jack Butterfield Trophy as playoff MVP.

In the summer of 2004, Flaherty was signed by the Vancouver Canucks, but it was mostly for the Manitoba Moose's benefit, as that is where wound up. For the 2004-05 season, Flaherty would get 36 games in with a 19-10-3 record in the regular season, then a 8-4 record in the post-season. Flaherty would see more time in the 2005-06 season, with 49 games played and a 26-17-4 record before a 7-5 post-season campaign. Injuries late in the season took its toll on Flaherty in the 2006-07 season, as he would only get 32 games in thanks to leg injuries; finishing with a 17-9-2 record. Flaherty would only play in three playoff games, going 1-2.

Time in Manitoba had run their course, which lead Flaherty to the Chicago Blackhawks' AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs for the 2007-08 season. Flaherty would play 31 games, going 13-8-1 in a season that would have their share of injury problems.

After that season, Flaherty left North America in pursuit of other hockey ventures. The 2008-09 season landed him in China to play for the China Sharks. Not only would he play 39 games for the Sharks, but he would also be the goaltending coach for the Sharks and the Chinese National Team; trying to start to establish a competitive base there. Flaherty would hang-up his pads after that season.

Currently, Flaherty is the developmental goalie coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, where he's been since January of 2009.

Flaherty was everywhere and probably has the longest career for only playing 120 games in the NHL. He played 283 in the AHL, 244 in the IHL, and his career lasted long enough for him to play over in China. Another story of having logjams and not so great teams to deal with in trying to be successful in the pro game. He has two championships in the minor leagues and is now able to use his experiences in playing and being send down to mold the younger goalies in the Blackhawks organization.

Friday Five: Injury Bug and Relief

It's the end of another week and time for the F5. First off, thanks to those who enjoyed the story of Matt Mitchell's pads and the goalie himself, as it blew up big time. Sadly, it won't get better than that, I'm afraid-- but hey, I won't stop trying.

1. With Zach Parise and Martin Brodeur hurting, will the bad luck end in Jersey??

At least the Brodeur injury doesn't seem that serious-- though if it is, there's going to be issue, moreso. The Parise injury hurts on the actual team side in terms of scoring, but for the salary-wise, it's quite the relief. Unless there's a drastic change in attitude, I don't know if there's anything that can save this teams right now. It's almost like this is the mulligan year for the Devils after the years of success; which happens every now and again to even the most elite of teams. The ebbs and flows of parity is showing right now.

2. What's Bobby Holik's deal and why does he have such an axe to grind with the Devils??

The thing you have to appreciate is Holik coming out and being the outspoken guy he's become on the NHL Network and beyond. That said, there has to be some kind of underlying issue which makes him more critical of the Devils, a team he has two Cup rings with. Granted, everyone and their mother have been critical of the Devils, but Holik has been beyond that and it's a bit refreshing at one end of it and a bit "enough already" at the other end. We all know the Kovalchuk deal was bad, we're seeing the result on the ice-- but there's a point where it just stops being a topic because it's widely known as a bad move for everyone.

3. Staying in the Tri-State area, are we seeing the true New York Islanders or is it a bump in the road??

This is more than just a bump in the road, but it's not something they can't get out of. The issue I have is that they left Rick DiPietro in for two games in a row after he let up more than four goals. While I know they want to get the most out of his contract and out of his body while he's healthy-- there's a point where you have to switch it up and put Dwayne Roloson in there to help stop the bleeding and give the team a chance to win. The injury issues are a bit much, but at the same time-- guys have to step up and not use it as an excuse. If they don't improve in another month, all is definitely lost.

4. Daniel Briere has been suspended and Joe Thronton has a hearing Friday afternoon-- will this send a message to star players that they aren't infallible??

It's definitely a good message if they actually receive it as something they need to tone down. You look at this week also having fights with Jarome Iginla and Sidney Crosby, which is the way it should be done if star players feel like throwing their weight around-- drop the gloves and settle it the way you can within the perimeter of the rules. If you're cheapshotting guys when you're an elite player, it's silly when you actually have a rule allowing you to settle stuff without resorting to cheapshots.

5. The SPHL has a rule where their overtime is immediately a 3-on-3 situation. Is this the way to go or is there another way??

You have to give the SPHL props for going to this drastic of a measure, skipping over 4-on-4 altogether. However, I'm with JonnyP and other guys saying they should extend the 4-on-4 to a ten minute segment and seeing how that goes before reducing the players or going right to the shootout. The NHL coming out of the lockout was supposed to be about creating chances and while 3-on-3 does create chances in overtime, the 4-on-4 for a longer period of time would do just the same, but closer to the spirit of the game rather than gimmicks.....though I love me some gimmicks

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Another week in the books, and if you have a topic that you'd want to be tackled, you can get in touch with me via electronic mail. Scotty.Wazz@Gmail.com is the place to contact me and you can just get your question answered by me.....isn't that thrilling??

Team Wazz 2010-11 Predicitions

While the season has already started, I figured an inventive way for me to pick who's coming out of each conference. Let my kid pick the teams.

That's right-- mostly because it's a crapshoot anyway-- why not get little Kaity Wazz pick out the two teams to face off in the Cup. Of course, another gimmick way is to get some "Match 'Em Up" memory blocks from the fantastic Mascotopia company to make it even more of a crapshoot.



So, there you go. It's just as good as any; albeit the picks could be a little bit off, that's for sure. Plus, it shows how lazy I am.

Even if I did do some, odds are it'd be the status quo with everyone else-- so why waste my time and yours in doing something that everyone else is doing. Goes with the old adage of if everyone else is doing it; why should you, or something like that. While it is great fun to go back and mock or celebrate the picks made, it just seems a bit meaningless for me to do.

But, since people like it-- I'll pick.....the San Jose Sharks and.....let's say....New Jersey Devils. As much as I would like to pick the Capitals; I always seem to do that and jinx them. They shan't fool me this time. Though, if I don't pick them, maybe they'll actually do something. We'll see.

The games are afoot.

"Sharks Are Pro-Antii Niemi" or "Faith No More For Greiss"

Nick Kypreos was the first to break it, but it seems Antii Niemi is now a member of the San Jose Sharks, reportedly agreeing to a one-year, $2M deal that'll see him duel with fellow countryman Antero Niittymaki for time in the crease and to see how many "i's" they can put into their names.

Now, the thing with this is two-fold. Why would the Sharks be stocking up on goalies, especially for a one-year deal?? Do they lack that much faith in Thomas Greiss as a back-up that they're making him stay in the AHL for another season?? While it could be that, maybe they've lost faith in Greiss and are waiting for Alex Stalock or Tyson Sexsmith to grab the ball and run with it as the back-up to Niittymaki next season.

Plus, how does it feel to be Niittymaki right now?? You go from being the top guy and being able to not have to challenge for any starts to fighting game-by-game, practice-by-practice to get some playing time. Granted, it seems that when in a battle, Niittymaki really shines-- much like he did when dueling with Mike Smith for time in the Tampa net and during his tenure in Philadelphia, when he was healthy.

As for Niemi, I'm sure he's happy he doesn't have to go back to Finland or elsewhere to pick up his playing career and he gets to stay in the Western Conference, where he'll face his old team more than once in the season. Of course, we'll see what he's made out of during the season, just to see whether or not he was a fluke who played behind a great team or if he can hold his own should the team in front of him comes up short.

If nothing else, for the Sharks; this could give them a nice little two-headed monster in net should everything pan out as they hope. Also, it renews the hope that the Sharks have in Finnish goaltenders, as we've seen in the past with Vesa Toskala, Miikka Kiprusoff, and who could forget Jarmo Myllys. I mean, yes, only Kiprusoff has taken off to great heights, but still. The Sharks love the obscure Germans and Finns in net. Hopefully, this will get them to the next level and not make them wish they had re-signed Evgeni Nabokov.

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.

Absurd Goalie Monday: Chris Terreri

There are few guys who have been as innovative as this guy. If not for this guy, the odds of water bottles being on top of the net may not have happened....for at least a few more years. That notwithstanding, he is the last starter of the New Jersey Devils before the Martin Brodeur era came into town, something that may or may not be used in any kind of trivia. This week, we look at the career of Chris Terreri.

The Providence, Rhode Island native started his career with the West Warwick Wizards in high school before committing to Providence College. Terreri got off his freshman year with only 11 games in 1982-83, but played admirably; going 7-1-0 with two shutouts and 1.93 GAA. That was good enough for the New Jersey Devils, who drafted Terreri in the fifth round of the 1983 Draft. His sophomore year, Terreri would play behind Mario Proulx in net, seeing a much different result-- playing in 10 games with a 4-2-0 record and higher 3.07 GAA. In his junior year in 1984-85, Terreri would make Providence proud, first going 21-15-5 on the season; while propelling the Friars to the first every Hockey East championship, beating Boston College 2-1 in the Championship game. That would move them onto the NCAA Tournament, where the Friars would be in tough in the first round, winning by one goal on aggregate against Michigan, then beating Boston College in the Frozen Four in three overtimes. However, the magic would run out with RPI beating Providence 2-1 in the finals. Terreri would take NCAA Tournament MVP, NCAA All-Tournament Team, and Hockey East MVP for the season.

I mentioned in the opening, the water bottle being utilized. During that three overtime game in the tournament, Terreri and BC goalie Scott Gordon skated to their nets during one of the overtime periods and placed a water bottle on top of their nets. It was the first time this practice was used and showed a sign of solidarity, as both agreed to take one rather than having the playing field unbalanced. Bob Froese was the first NHL goalie to use a water bottle in those 1985 playoffs, though the Islanders called foul on Froese and the Flyers at first, the bottle stayed (because it was velcroed to the net) and it went into practice full-time the next season.

Terreri would close out his college career in the 1985-86 season, not being as fortunate as the year before, going 6-16-0 in his 22 games, closing it out on a disappointing note. He would, however, go play for the United States in the World Championships, playing in five games with one shutout, despite the country finishing 6th.

Terreri would then move onto the pros, playing mostly for the Maine Mariners in the AHL in the 1986-87 season, backing up Kirk McLean. Terreri played 14 games, going 4-8-1 while in Maine, but did get a call-up to New Jersey, playing seven games and going 0-3-1 in his games at the first part of the calendar year.

The 1987-88 season saw Terreri stay out of the pros for the first part of the season, joining the US National Team in order to play in the 1988 Olympics in Calgary. He would play 26 games in preparation, going 17-7-2 in the warm-ups, but only got action in three games behind Mike Richter, going 1-1-0 in his games, as the US would finish 7th. Off the high of the Olympic experience, Terreri would go to the Utica Devils of the AHL, where he would put up an impressive 5-1-0 in his seven games played. The 1988-89 season had Terreri in a starter's role in Utica, getting in 39 games to prove himself and going 20-15-3; which got him a call-up to New Jersey, but more troubles going 0-4-2 in the eight games of action.

In the 1989-90 season, Terreri was the full-time back-up to Sean Burke in New Jersey. Terreri did see a good amount of time and actually was able to prosper while in New Jersey compiling a 15-12-3 record; his most successful in Jersey to date. He would be tested in the 1990-91 season, as he would get much of the starter's time, as management disputes with Sean Burke left Terreri as the main guy. Terreri did well when thrown into the fire, putting up a 24-21-7 record and went 3-4 in the playoffs. With Burke sitting out the 1991-92 season, it was put onto Terreri, who performed so-so with a 22-22-10 record, going 3-3 in the playoffs, as the Devils were ousted in the first round again. There would be split time with Terreri and former AGM Craig Billington in the 1992-93 season, which saw Terreri lose his grasp on the gig; going 19-21-3 on the year.

Terreri would start off the 1993-94 campaign as the starter, but while his numbers were alright, he was warming the seat for the prospect behind him-- Martin Brodeur. Terreri had an impressive 20-11-4 season with a 2.72 GAA on the defensive Devils team. Terreri saw less time in the 1994-95 shortened-season, playing 15 games and going 3-7-2. However, Terreri was along for the ride during the playoffs, which he was able to get a Cup ring for it-- as the Devils won their first Stanley Cup. Terreri started off in New Jersey for the 1995-96 season, but only got four games (3-0-0) in before he moved off the East Coast for the first time in his career.

In November of 1995, Terreri was traded to the San Jose Sharks for a second round pick in the 1996 Draft. Terreri would take over the starting role on the lowly Sharks, playing in 46 games and going 13-29-1 record in San Jose. In 1996-97, Terreri would be behind newly-acquired Kelly Hrudey and only get 22 games in, going 6-10-1, but with an impressive 2.75 GAA and .901 save percentage. Even still-- it wasn't enough to keep him in town long.

In January in 1997, Terreri, along with Ulf Dahlen, Michal Sykora, and conditional draft pick were traded to the Chicago Blackhawks for Ed Belfour. Terreri would only get seven games in during the season, but had a 4-1-2 record in those games. Terreri would get the starting gig for the 1997-98 season, but due to a fractured finger and strained groin (not at the same time), he would only get 21 games in and lose his gig at the #1 spot. He would go 8-10-2 in Chicago and 2-0-1 in his three games of rehab with the IHL's Indianapolis Ice.

Terreri would go back into a familiar place in the 1998-99 season, as the Blackhawks traded Terreri back to the New Jersey Devils for a conditional pick. Terreri knew his role in New Jersey, playing behind Brodeur once again. The 1998-99 season only yield 12 games for Terreri, but he was up to the task, with an 8-3-1 record. In the 1999-2000 season, Terreri was less impressive, only having a 2-9-0 record in his 12 games, but would be on the roster for yet another Stanley Cup ring, as the Devils defeated the Stars to win their second Stanley Cup. Prior to the 2000-01 season, Terreri was picked up in the Expansion Draft by the Minnesota Wild, but he was traded back to the New Jersey Devils with a 9th round pick for Brad Bombardir. Back with the Devils, Terreri got 10 games in and went 2-5-1 before the Devils knew he couldn't be a viable option anymore.

At the 2001 Trade Deadline, Terreri and a 9th round pick were traded to the New York Islanders for John Vanbiesbrouck. Terreri would only play eight games for the Islanders, going 2-4-1. When he knew he couldn't hack it, Terreri hung up the skates....temporarily.

After his retirement, Terreri caught on as an assistant coach with the then-affiliate of the Devils, the Albany River Rats. Thanks to some injuries, however, Terreri had to strap on the pads once more during the 2005-06 campaign, as he would come in net for relief of the River Rats goalie, letting up four goals in 31 shots in 40 minutes of play, as well as getting the loss to his credit. Terreri now serves as goalie coach for the Devils affiliate in Lowell.

You could see that it took awhile for Terreri to grow accustomed to the level of play that he was playing at, but when he finally got into his comfort zone; he excelled very well. He has many individual and team accolades to be proud of and his experience of getting accustomed to new levels should pay off when the Devils finally get the need for young goaltenders in their system.

What's Next: San Jose Sharks 2010

Just when you thought they got over the "choke" label, the question comes back to them. How did a team who looked so good in one round, dominate to the two-time defending Western Conference Champions; look so flat and uninspired when four games away from the Stanley Cup finals. Thus is the enigma of the San Jose Sharks. They had the entire spectrum of emotion this year, but now it ends without the prize and swept by a possible destined team. But, what's going to happen now??

The big question lies about Patrick Marleau and what's going to happen with him. While the turmoil of his captaincy in the summer loomed into this season; he stepped up in the season with a career-high in goals and 2nd best points year in his tenure. In the playoffs, Marleau had eight goals, an eight-game point streak, and 13 points-- but is it enough to get him a new deal?? Probably, if he wants to keep his same wage. While he's consistent, Marleau never had too much explosive scoring prowess, which could help or hinder his leverage. Plus, the Sharks would have to worry about what to do with Joe Thornton who was nothing short of horrific in the playoffs with a minus-11 and only really showed up for the second round, where he got nine of his 12 points in the playoffs. That's right-- only three points in the other 10 games. With one year left on his deal, you have to wonder if the Sharks will press Thornton to move his No-Trade Clause to get money freed up. Luckily-- the likes of Joe Pavelski, Devin Setoguchi, and Ryan Clowe make the future bright for the Sharks with or without the likes of Marleau, Thornton, or Dany Heatley-- who only had 2 goals this playoffs, but doesn't get the heat thanks to the history of Marleau and Thornton.

Defensively, the Sharks are set for the long-haul. With Dan Boyle, Marc-Eduard Vlasic and Jason Demers in the fold for next year and beyond (for the first two, at least), the Sharks will be on the look out to fill out the voids. Rob Blake will probably not be back, but his leadership will have hopefully rubbed off on the young guys and all of that. Who knows what the Sharks could get, but with a lot of key forwards needing new contracts, you may see them build from within or get a couple of fringe defensemen who won't command much of a contract hit on them. With the core group, don't expect much of a shake-up from the Sharks on this front.

What more can be said about Evgeni Nabokov that hasn't been said before. While his number weren't the best, they weren't horrible either. The playoffs saw every side of Nabokov, who couldn't do everything for the Sharks, especially without the support other goalies get. Nabokov could have been gassed after workhorsing it again this year with Thomas Greiss not getting much time behind him and with the Olympics-- but he didn't show it too much. Nabokov is going to be a free agent and it may be wise for the Sharks to re-sign him, especially since the pickings are slim for the free agent market in terms of goalies. For how much and how long-- we'll know in July or earlier.

While the doubt surfaced in the first round, they got erased in the second, but now came back in the Western Final, as the Sharks now move into hearing about the what they could have done better, who could have picked it up, and the other questions they've endured during the last few seasons already. I'm sure they'll take it in stride since they are used to it.....or not.

Advantage No More

While many are saying that what the Chicago Blackhawks have done by going into San Jose and taking two games, but in a season where nothing is of the ordinary; it shouldn't come as much of a surprise. Granted, there's only been one "upset" in the West, but the Red Wings taking out the Coyotes in the first round; it's hard to say it's not uncommon for the home ice advantage to be something of a deterrent.

Since the Lockout and through the 2010 Conference Semis, there has been 57 series and 27 of them have been won by the lower seeded teams. That's just under 50% of all series have been taken by the team who started out on the road. Of those 27 series, the road team took at least one of the two road games to start off with 23 times, took both games nine times, and lost both games only four times in that span (Oilers in 2006, Penguins twice in 2009, Flyers in 2010).

But what's the cause of this all?? Many teams fight to get into the home-ice advantage, but it doesn't seem to be all too efficient with it's said and done. There has been 17 Game Sevens in the time span with the road team winning 10 times, with a perfect 4-for-4 in the 2010 Playoffs. There's not much to be said for getting that home ice for that crucial Game Seven, as it doesn't seem to do much for helping the home team winning it.

Plus, it's not like the Blackhawks were that far behind the Sharks in the standings (only one point), while winning three out of four in the season series. Even so, it's hard to win on the road despite the numbers showing somewhat to the contrary. It's quite the feat for the Hawks to go into the playoffs this deal and just outshining the Sharks in front of their fans.

Pointless Playoff Prognostication: Conference Finals

My trip to Maryland and the things happening around it has been something that has kept me from this post until now. However, with no games to go final, I think I should be good to keep doing this. Again-- went a perfect 2-for-2 in the West and took the collar at 0-for-2 in the East. Maybe I'll pick the East better now that I'm back there. But, we start with the first game of Sunday.

(1) SAN JOSE SHARKS vs. (2) CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

We're finally at the point where the choke label is off the Sharks. They made it to their first conference Final since 2004 and most importantly, got past the second round. It was a little dicey, but with Joe Thornton and Dany Heatley realizing it's the playoffs and actually contributing; the Sharks look a lot better. Sure, it's a bit of an issue with Patrick Marleau still not getting onto the scoring sheet as often as he would like, but at the same time-- Joe Pavelski keeps stepping in up with Marleau slacking. Which Evgeni Nabokov shows up will be a story, too. Can he be clutch in a spot that he hasn't been in for six years?? He has done enough to get them to this point, but can he keep it up against a rested, strong offensive team like Chicago.

The Hawks are back for a second year in a row and should be able to feed off of last year's falter to move onto this year. Jonathan Toews has been leading by example in the scoring department, while Patrick Sharp has played well in a secondary role. The playoff curse is effecting Marian Hossa again, as he hasn't been able to step up as much as the Hawks were hoping, with only two goals and 10 points in the 12 games. Luckily, the shutdown defense of Brent Seabrook and Brent Sopel have helped out in the own end, but the minus on Duncan Keith's stats are a bit concerning, but should shut down in the finals. The shakiness of Antti Niemi continues to be something that could hold the Hawks back, but if he gets support from up front; he should be fine.

PREDICTION: Blackhawks in Six. While the Sharks have made it far, the Hawks look like the team to beat. The road record at 5-1 should help them, as they don't have home ice advantage. With the Hawks knowing what it takes, it should help them not lose focus, like the Sharks could.

(7) PHILADELPHIA FLYERS vs. (8) MONTREAL CANADIENS

How much is left in the tank, that's going to be the real question. Coming back from three games down, then coming back from three goals down in Game Seven can take a lot out of a team and could be a factor if this series becomes a long one. The one good point is Michael Leighton is back, healthy, and most importantly-- fresh. He will be the X-factor for the Flyers as he has got them to this point from the regular season, but wants to finish what he started. Danny Briere is finally earning his money this playoffs, which should be a great confidence boost to him moving forward. The Flyers have had a lot of issues, but this should somehow validate their bi-polar season.

The Montreal Canadiens may face trouble in the fact that the Flyers aren't a juggernaut like the Capitals and Penguins are. Even so, the Habs have been world builder, taking out the two faces of the NHL in Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby, making them very invisible throughout their respective series. Most of that has to do with the amazing play of Jaroslav Halak, who will command a healthy raise in the off-season; but plenty should be given to the likes of Hal Gill, who blocks everything coming at him. With PK Subban being called up, it has given the Habs another dynamic, especially with Andrei Markov out for this series, as well. You also can't say enough about the off-season acquisitions of Mike Cammalleri, Scott Gomez, and Brian Gionta, who have been the top dogs for the Habs and really brought them to this point with their scoring.

PREDICTION: Canadiens in Six. While the Flyers have a great story coming into it all, I don't think that they'll have enough left in the tank after their series against the Bruins. Especially considering how the Habs have had some time off and are on the high of shutting down most offenses; the only thing that can beat them is not scoring in the clutch-- which they seem to do just fine.

That's that-- enjoy the series and here's some decent action; even if it's a four-game sweep in each one.