Tips & tricks of the trade...deadline.

Just over a day left until NHL GMs can fortify their rosters for the playoff push.

Here are a couple of tips and tricks on what to expect out of the CBJ brass that may lead to a better experience over the next 27 hours give or take:

* Don't expect a blockbuster. So if the unlikely unfolds you'll be pleasantly surprised.

* Expect very conservative moves from Howson and co. Later round draft picks and middle of the road prospects for cougars/costcos are what's likely to change hands between now and 3 p.m. EST tomorrow.

* Howson will not sell so expect at least one move. It may be minor but even a minor move improves team morale and lets them know management believes in this squad.

* Don't expect Pascal Leclaire to be dealt.

* Expect trades to be announced after the 3 p.m. deadline so don't be quick on the trigger to rule the day a success/failure right as the clock strikes 1500. Trade announcements trickle out of the NHL offices well after the 3:00 p.m. deadline passes. These things can stack up and they take time to get consummated. I believe the fax just has to be received and acknowledged by the NHL by 3:00 EST.

* Expect great coverage. NHL.com; TSN.ca; Sportsnet.ca; All great sites to follow the deadline day's activities. The NHL Network also has coverage starting at noon.

* Expect at least 20 trades league wide.

* Don't expect this year's #1 pick to be dealt.

* Expect Howson to acquire a player that has never been speculated about or rumored to come to Columbus (think Jason Williams).

* Like last year, don't expect the Dispatch/Puck-rakers to update us much.. Howson will be busy working the phones thus won't have time to keep the beats informed regularly. Chances are we'll find out trades via the NHL or TSN before the Dispatch gets the scoop.

* Expect the word "conditional" to get lots of air time. Many trades, especially one involving draft picks, are "conditional". i.e. "2nd round pick conditional upon team making playoffs"; "3rd round pick conditional upon player 'x' being re-signed by new team".

Also many times the complete understanding of these "conditions" will not be immediately known or made clear.

Fire away - any other tips/tricks out there you folks would recommend?

-LTL