Even more draft stuff

A quick post but I have to point out a couple of things.

First up there is a brand new spanking site up that takes in depth looks (with videos) at the cream of the cream of the 2008 draft. Pretty much every first round talent is analyzed in depth.

For us states side its very hard for us to get to see many of these draft picks as NCAA D1 hockey, Major Canadian Junior and Euro leagues just aren't televised. This site is about as good as we are going to get for now.

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/

Just click on "North American Skaters" and then click the player name and your off and running (er skating!).

Guys to really pay attention to that may be there at 6 are Schenn, Myers, Pietrangelo and Filatov. Although I really liked what I saw from Bogosian (reminds me of Ray Bourque..drool!).

Then of course if we have onto 19th overall....hell, just watch em all to be safe :)

Secondly there is a thread over at HFBoards that has pictures of past Hockey News draft mags. I get this every year and its a great reference come before, during and after draft day. This poster did a tremendous job of taking a look at 1987 and up. Very fun viewing. Check out the thread here.

Also am I the only one who thinks Ottawa's draft logo is kinda of lame? Maybe its the homer in me shining through but bring back the CBJ Draft Logo....that sucker was sweet.

While we are on the subject you can check out all the past Draft Logos here.Enjoy (I know I am)!!

-LTL

Crunch season over with game 7 defeat

Its a damn shame really but in a matter of 96 hours, after holding a 3-1 series lead, the Syracuse Crunch find themselves eliminated from the playoffs.

Game 7 ended the way the last two did - with a 1 goal loss.

This is surely not the way the Crunch saw this playing out in their mohawk'ed heads. Not when they won 15 games straight and got a point in 23 straight games. Even though the Marlies were seeded higher in this series, the Crunch were the team to beat.

Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be.

Still though they boys have a lot to be proud once the initial disgust from this series subsides. There is a lot to build from.

1. The experience. Guys like Brassard, Brule, Methot, Picard, Lindstrom, Wilson, Sestito, Dorsett, Pineault, Plekanov and LaCosta are all key prospects for the Jackets and all experienced that winning feeling. Certainly some of those players won't be back in Syracuse as they'll make the big team but nothing can replace that experience and that development. Development that guys like Klesla, Nash, Zherdev, Fritsche and lord knows how many other draft picks never experienced.

2. Good signs. For the Jackets AHL affiliate to make such a strong push this summer it only bodes well for the Jackets in the future. After all these are their prospects who carried that team. One can only hope this development bleeds over to the parent club as early as next season.

3. Evaluations. Scott Howson and company had a real good chance to evaluate their prospects in pressure situations. They should have a much clearer idea of where everyone stands developmentally, who should have a good shot at the big team next year and what holds need filled both on the big team and at the AHL level.

For those keeping score (like me) Derek MacKenzie led the Crunch in playoff scoring notching 14p in 12 games which was good for the 3rd in the league at the time of elimination. Derek Brassard, who added two more assists in game 7, was 7th overall in league playoff scoring notching 13p in 13 games.

Of course there were some dissapointments as well with Gilbert Brule only collecting 2g, 3a for 5p in 13 games. Joakim Lindstrom only notched 7p in 13g as well.

All in all though it was a great run for the Crunch. I think it excited the city of Syracuse and a lot of Jacket fans who were looking for something to hold onto as we worked our way through spring.

Now its time to turn the focus to who will be back both in Columbus and Syracuse. Both teams have plenty of decisions to make with the likes of Zenon Konopka and Derek MacKenzie both slated to be UFAs. Methot, Lindstrom and Wilson are all key RFAs that will need resigned.

My hats off to a great season Syracuse. Hopefully next year we'll have two teams to follow well into the spring!!

-LTL

Season on the line for Crunch tonight!

It all comes down to this, one game.

After winning 17 straight in one of the more remarkable runs in AHL history, the Syracuse Crunch's season comes down to game 7 tonight in Toronto tonight versus the Marlies.

The Crunch have had their chances to put this series away but the Marlies have been resilient and have battled back from a 3-1 game deficit to force the 7th and deciding game.

The good news is that the Crunch have played well in Toronto winning two of their three games in this series there. The bad news is that the Marlies have all the momentum heading into the deciding game and haven taken the past two.

If Crunch captain Zenon Konopka has anything to say about, which of course he does in Lindsay Kramer's blog, the Crunch won't lose this game:

I'll play better on Monday. I'll score tomorrow,'' he said. "We'll win tomorrow. There's no way I'll let us lose to these guys.''

Here are some comments from some of the other Crunch players:

"I think we should be fine. We're playing the second-best team in the league. We got them to Game 7,'' said Crunch defenseman Dan Smith. "We were up 3-1, we had two chances to close them out. This is our last one. We're just going to bring our game, because our game is good enough.''

"I think we're going to have to be calm. That's the only way we're going to play our best. It's just a matter of who wants it more. We've been resilient all year,'' said Syracuse forward Trevor Frischmon.

"I think we're a little more uptight today because we're going to Game 7. But I don't think it's going to change how we play,'' said defenseman Marc Methot.

"I think everyone is nervous. I think we're frustrated, but in a good way. It's helping to give us energy for Game 7,'' Sestito said.

Kramer also says in his blog that if the Crunch do lose tonight it will mark the first 3 games losing streak since games 6, 7 and 8 at the beginning of the season.

Win or lose this has been some invaluable experience for the Jackets prospects. They have been apart of a winning team and have gotten loads of playoff experience. Playing in a game 7 will only add to their experiences.

Remember you can listen to the game live here. There is also a pay-by-game service where you can get the live stream on the front page of theahl.com.

GO CRUNCH!!

-LTL

Crunch blow 3-1 series lead

Just when things were looking good the Crunch lose in OT on Friday night and then blow a 1 goal lead in the 3rd and lose again on Saturday night.

Series now tied 3-3.

The Crunch have played seemingly every game with little or no room for error. That trend will pro baby continue as they will play Toronto, in Toronto, in a pivotal game 7 on Monday night.

The goods news is that some other players are starting to get on the scoreboard like Picard and Brule but the bad news is that the scoring from their main weapons in Brassard, Konopka and Lidstrom have all but dried up.

The Crunch have certainly had their chances to close out this series and have floundered. They get one more kick at the can to continue their season on Monday. The odds are in their favor but the boys have to come to play or they could find themselves golfing with their parent club in Columbus.

-LTL

More draft stuff..

Its certianly the year of the d-man.

Here is a great blog entry on Luke Schenn and Tyler Myers. Both guys have a real possibility of being Jackets if they retain that #6 pick. These descriptions are from a Phoenix Coyotes scout:

Luke Schenn:

"He's a guy that looks like he can step in next year. Unless you are going to pick in the top five, I don't think you are going to get him or Tyler Myers. I think Myers is right up there in that picture too. Luke is probably the most mature guy physically-wise and mentally-wise in the draft that can step in and play at the National Hockey League level.""He keeps the game the way he should play it. He keeps it simple. He moves the puck, he's very strong in his own end. He could get stronger physically, which he will with maturity, but their are not many holes in his game.""We want a guy who is mobile, a guy who can move the puck quickly and accurately to the forwards, and he does that. He's strong in his own end, he clears the front of the net well and he's strong in the corners. Luke has a good low shot from the point, which I would like to see him use more often, but he's the whole package."

Tyler Myers:

"If you saw him last year, you saw him this summer, you saw him at the start of this year to where he is now, it's unbelievable the strides he has taken. I mean, 6 foot 7 and he can skate. The other night he took off down the wing and he just blew by everybody. Their is no doubt about it, this kid...we were hoping he would drop down but I don't think so. I think he has a good chance to go in the top five."

"If you look at Luke Schenn right now, he is the more complete player. But you say to yourself, down the road will Tyler be better than Luke Schenn? But hey, we would be happy to have either one of them on our team. I think Myers has Chris Pronger potential. The other night he cranked a few guys. This kid is going up and up and up, so he's going to be a hell of a pick for someone."

Rest of blog post can be found here.

That post definitely gets me a little more excited about Myers. Like the scout says, 6'7" and can skate? Very rare combination indeed. Definitely starting to warm up to him at #6 if Schenn and the other big 4 are gone.

-LTL

Crystal ball time v3.0

Its back!!

Crystal ball (v3) time again.

1. 19th overall traded to Philly for RJ Umberger. Jackets sign him to 4 year 12 million dollar deal.
Draft day trade. The Jackets need a set up guy for Rick Nash. Umberger was 28th in the league in assists for centers with 37. Looking through the list of top centers he is the first playmaking one that strikes me as really being available and I think he'd be a good fit. He's only 26, is an RFA and is only going to get better. The Flyers just don't have the room for him with having to get Jeff Carter locked down and improving their defense. Umberger had 50 points total last season in 34 games. He's got the size at 6'2" and won't break the bank. He is very capable of sliding into a top 6 center position and opening up some ice for Nash and Modin and more importantly, getting them the puck. A cherry on top is that he played for Ohio State.

2. Fritsche + Brule traded for Antoinne Vermette. Vermette is signed to 4 year 12 mil.
Another pre-draft trade. Ottawa doesn't want to pay what Vermette demands as an RFA so they deal him for some depth. The Jackets offer up a few proposals for Vermette and Ottawa ultimately settles for a package of Fritsche + Brule. The Jackets immediately lock Vermette down to a 4 year deal worth 12 mil. Vermette is very versitile, he can play in any forward position so say if a Derick Brassard proves he's ready in camp then Vermette could slide to a wing while Brassard anchors the #2 hole.

3. Nik Zherdev traded to Vancouver for Kevin Bieksa
The Jackets just don't factor Zherdev into their future and choose to trade him this offseason while his trade value is highest. Vancouver is desperate for offensive help and has a glut of d-men on their blueline. Bieksa is a guy they wouldn't have moved for Z last year. Z is a guy some wouldn't move for Bieksa this year -- sounds like the perfect trade to me. Bieksa had a fluke injury last season which really limited him but the year before he put up 42p in 81 games and was a +1. He's only 26 and has a ton of upside yet can deliver right now. He has a great shot from the point (and can get it through), is physical and isn't afraid to drop the mits. He is EXACTLY the kind of player I think Hitch/Howson love. He instantly improves the top 4 and makes this team tougher to play against. He is signed for 3 more years at 4.25/3.5/3.5.

4. Jackets trade 2009 2nd round pick to San Jose for rights to Brian Campbell who is then signed to a 6 year 36 million with NTC
San Jose opts not to sign Campbell but gives us permission to negotiate pre July 1st. The Jackets come to terms with Campbell and then send San Jose a 2nd round 2009 pick as compensation. The Jackets get their PPQ. Sure they overpay as Campbell, while a horse offensively, definitely has some flaws in his own end. The Jackets though could not afford to go into next season without a legit option to run their PP and Campbell is the best option. The Sharks have no draft picks in the top 3 rounds and salvage something for Campbell. Campbell had 62 points last season and is only 28 years old. He would instantly improve the Jackest transition and PP.

5. Andrew Brunette signed to 2 year 6 mil
Brunette is a an older veteran (34) who is a top 6 left wing. He is 6'1" 212 pounds who hasn't missed a game in the past 5 seasons. He is as good a playmaker as he is a goal scorer. He has averaged 68 points over the past 3 years. He really compliments the top 6 and gives them another consistant scorer which this team desperately needs.

6. Ryan Malone signed to 5 year 22.5 mil
Ultimatley Malone would have liked to have stayed in Pitt but with names like Malkin, Hossa and Staal to resign in the near future they just couldn't afford to commit that kind of salary. That opens up the door for Howson to throw a wad of cash and term at the rugged winger. Howson loves his grit and scoring touch and Hitch loves his competitive fire which is badly needed in our top 6. Yes they overpay but he solidfys the top 6. Of course questions about his offensive production will be on the forefront - was it him or playing with franchise guys like Crosby and Malkin? The good news there is that Malone put up 43 points his rookie year without either guy..anyone of note really. He can also play center.

7. Leclaire resigned to 4 year 16 mil
No brainer here. No team can win without good goaltending. Leclaire is resigned to a 4 year 16 mil dollar deal. That gives Mason plenty of time to develop and solifies our net for the foreseeable future.

8. Jan Hejda signed to 3 year 6 mil (check! although I had 4 year 10 mil previously)
Howson locks up our best defensive defensemen with a 3 year deal that averages 2 mil per.

Nash (6.5) Umberger (3) Modin (3.5)
Brunette (3) Vermette (3) Malone (4.5)
Chimera (1.875) Malhotra (1.5k) Voracek (875k)
Boll (570k) Murray (800k) Dorsett (570k)
Depth: Novotny/Brassard/Pineault/Picard/Sestito/Legein

Campbell (6) Hejda (2)
Klesla (1.65) Bieksa (4.250)
Tollefsen (750k) Rome (750k)
Depth: Russell/Methot/Wilson

Leclaire (4)
Norrena (900k)
Depth: Mason/LaCosta

Total salary: 49.99

************************

This team puts the Jackets at budget with 49.99 mil committed towards next year and is a vast upgrade in skill. Sure its probably a little more than ownership wanted to spend but if persented with that kind of lineup there is just no way ownership could say no.

That is a team that will make the playoffs.

This is a team that has significantly upgraded itself up the middle with players that are good but are going to get even better in Vermette and Umberger.

This is a team that has significantly upgraded is defense and puck moving ability with the addition of Campbell and Bieksa.

This is also a team that has upgraded its overall scoring puch adding 4 players who scored 50 or more points last season (Malon/Campbell/Brunette/Malone) while only giving up 1 in Zherdev. It also allows young players like Brassard/Voracek/Russell to continue their development and puts no uneeded pressure on them to player higher in the linenup that they should or their development warrants.

It also gives Hitch a nice mix of proven veterans, guys in/or approaching their prime and youngsters which to work with.

Furthermore this team just got a whole lot tougher. Both Malone and Bieksa aren't afraid to drop the mits. Couple them with Tollefsen, Boll and sometimes Chimera and Rome then you have a tough team who can play you any you wanbt. That does not even include Dorsett or Sestito who could very well make the team and will most certainly see time.

This is also a team that will stay together for at least 2 years. At that point guys like Malhotra/Brunette and Klesla will fall of the books if not resigned. There will be financial flexibility to resign guys like Nash/Brassard/Voracek/Russell.

Another plus is that in this scenario the Jackets retain their #6 overall selection and add a significant piece to their system. That better be the last top 10 pick the Jackets have for quite some time. They do give up some of their future in Colorado's 1st, Zherdev, Brule & Fritsche but its the price you have to pay.

Anyhow...another example of what Howson could do this summer (and another example that I have to much time on my hands) but its fun playing with the different options.

This one's a winner Howson - make it so!!

Crystal ball v1.0

Crystal ball v2.0

-LTL

Blues eyeing Schenn at 4?

That is what Andy Stickland is reporting on Hockeybuzz.com. Check it out:

Sources say the LA Kings will select Guelph D-man Drew Doughty with the 2nd overall pick.

I’m told the Thrashers will also take a D-man with the 3rd selection and they are leaning towards Peterborough stud Zach Bogosian.

Don’t be surprised if St.Louis takes Kelowna D-man Luke Schenn at number 4. He may not be as offensive as the other top D-men in the draft, but anybody who paid attention to the World Junior Championships last spring knows he was a stalwart and was a huge part of Canada’s success. One scout recently told me he’s the total package who can control the pace of the game. He’s calm with the puck, makes a terrific first pass, and is being compared to Hall of Famer Scott Stevens.

There is a lot of hype for Russian star Nikita Filatov, but the combination of his lack of size and speed is scaring a few teams away. Small players without explosiveness don’t normally turn into superstars in the NHL. One person recently told me that people need to understand that this
isn’t Ovechkin or Malkin. Scouts have told me Nikolai Zherdev is a stronger comparison.

According to Stickland it would be:

Tampa - Stamkos
LA - Doughty
Atlanta - Bogosian
St. Louis - Schenn
NYI - ?
Columbus ?

One thing about Andy Strickland is that he is usually bang on with his info on the Blues considering he is their beat guy.

So if Schenn is gone at 4 then that leaves two of the big 6 remaining - Russian forward Nikita Filatov and Canadian defensemen Alex Pietrangelo.

If the Jackets were to hold onto this pick you would have to think they would be crossing every finger and toe that the Islanders go with the dynamic forward and that Pietrangelo slides to them. It has been rumored heavily that the Islanders are very high on Filatov. I think the Jackets would be thrilled to get any one of the big four in Doughty, Bogosian, Pietrangelo or Schenn. Until now most thought it would Schenn who slides.

If the Islanders opt for Pietrangelo and Filatov is the guy left standing what do the Jackets do? I would think they'd have to trade down or out of the pick all together. I just don't think they have an interest in anyone who is comparable to Nik Zherdev at thus point. If they did stay in that slot I really hope they'd draft Colin Wilson but they may opt for the 6'7" tower defensemen Tyler Myers.

Pietrangelo Profile:
Pietrangelo is showing why most 'experts' think he is a lock to be a top 5 pick in the 2008 NHL Draft in Ottawa.

The only knock on him was that he was not physical enough. We agreed with that and it's clear to us that Alex heard the talk.

He has stepped up his physical game a bit but it's his smarts and poise that we love so much. It almost seems like he's not trying at times because he makes it all look so easy. Alex is so smart with and without the puck. He is one of those players that seems to slow the game down, his vision on the ice is outstanding. He makes great reads on when to hold the blueline and has a knack for keeping the puck in.

He consistantly sports a great plus/minus and averages almost a point per game. He makes great reads on the powerplay and like all great players, he makes players around him better. Petro's top end potential ceiling is very high, we expect him to be a top end NHL'er for many years.

Through all hype Alex just keeps everything under control and puts the team first. He is the most mature 17 year old I have ever met, I swear he's 27.

Season Team GP G A PTS +/- PIM
2006-07 Regular Season Mississauga IceDogs 59 7 45 52 40 45
2007-08 Regular Season Niagara IceDogs 60 13 40 53 29 94

Yeah, I think I'd be pretty happy with that at 6. No question.

Still over 40 days until we'll find out.

-LTL

Crunch bounce back with OT win!

After getting blown out of their own barn the night before in a 7-2 loss to the Toronto Marlies, the Syracuse Crunch bounced back to take a 5-4 win in OT off of Joakim Lindstrom's game winner.

Things didn't look good for the Crunch in the second period as they trailed 4-2. Mid-way through the 3rd though the boy started to apply some heat and stormed back off of goals from the Dereks (MacKenzie and Brassard).

Then after squandering an extended 5 on 3 advantage to open up OT Joakim Lindstrom, off a sweet pass by Zenon Konopka, netted the game winner when he buried a Konopka's pass in the slot.

Lindstrom may have gotten the sweet taste of scoring the OT winner but it was Konopka who once again fueled this Syracuse Crunch train. He had 1g and 3a and 7 shots on goal. Derek Brassard also improved his playoff performance with another goal and assist to bring his playoff totals to 4g, 7a for 11p in 10 playoff games. This kid is really maturing and this time spent in the AHL should prove to be invaluable.

Not to overlook was the play of Tom Sestito who by all accounts played a fantastic game last night. He had a goal and 3 shots and is really taking some steps in his development. Marc Methot also played some strong bruising defensive hockey and collected a pair of assists.

Nice to see some of the Jackets prospects really contributing during this playoff stretch. There are some concerns though as Gilbert Brule continues his season long scoring slump - he's only got 2 assists through 10 playoff games.

Crunch have a commanding 3-1 series lead and can close out the series in Toronto on Friday night. This Toronto team won't go quietly into the night so the Crunch have to come out firing on all cylinders to conclude this series.

-LTL

House that Crosby built

Here is a rendering of what Pittsburgh's new arena will look like:

-LTL

John McConnell memorial service at 7 tonight

Just a reminder that John McConnell's service will be held tonight at 7 p.m at Nationwide Arena. Parking is free after 5:30.

Also apparently ONN will be broadcasting the event on cable TV as well if you can't attend in person.

It was nice to hear that Hitch, Nash, Leclaire and Chimera are flying in from Canada to attend the service. In fact Nash will be speaking as well. Nice gesture by the captain and certainly not an easy thing for a 23 year old to do.

I'm sure it will be a beautiful service for a great man.

-LTL

Crunch thumped + Team Canada edges US in thriller

If the Crunch were an over confident bunch after their 2 convincing wins over the Toronto Marlies they just handed a serious reality check courtesy of a 7-2 butt whipping last night.

The Crunch goaltender, Karhl Goehring, finally looked human only stopped 14 of 18 before getting pulled for Adam Munro who looked even worse.

DiCasmirro and Lindstrom picked up the tallies for the Crunch. Brassard collected another assist.

The Crunch didn't go down without a fight though. Konopka, Sestito, Smith and Dorsett all made sure of that each getting into fights and racking up game misconducts. How many times have the Jackets been blown out and just whimpered into the night? Not this group.

There are sure to be some suspensions handed down today for the late game antics.

The Crunch won't have to wait long to go back at it as they face off in game 4 tonight at 7:00.

No doubt they have been humbled and will be ready to play.

Team Canada led by CBJ bench boss Ken Hitchcock pulled out a 5-4 victory over the US scoring the winning goal with just seconds remaining.

Canada got off to a 3-0 lead before the US came storming back to to make it 3-2. Canada then scored to make it 4-2 and yet again the US came back to tie it. Unfortunately for the Stars and Stripes Danny Heatley, off a feed from Rick Nash (who had two helpers), scored the game winner with just 47 seconds remaining in the game.

The US gave Canada everything it could handle though out shooting them 33-29. Their young stars stepped up with Parise, O'Sullivan, Brown and Pominville getting on the score sheet. Burns, Healtey (with 2) and Roy scored for Canada.

Canada moves to 3-0 while the US drops to 2-1. Both should advance to the elimination round and I think I can speak for all us when I say hopefully these two squads meet again for a medal.

-LTL

Blue biscuits

Some very various items to write about today.

The Dispatch reported that Stephan Legein has been released from the Crunch team to get started on his offseason conditioning.

This is probably much adu about nothing but it just strikes me kind of odd. Why not let the kid hang around the Crunch and see what it takes to be a winner? Can't he work out and do that at the same time?

I think realistically the Crunch just don't need him right now. They have enough players especially with Pineault and Sestito back from injury/suspension.

Team Canada vs. Team USA today at 3:30 p.m. EST! The first big test for both team's takes place today. Hitch, Nash, Leclaire, Chimera and the rest of Team Canada will face off against the US squad led by Kane, Mueller, Parise, Pomminville, Kessel & Brown. Both teams are 2-0 through round play thus far.

I think Canada will have to much for the US as they are a more seasoned and more talented, at least on paper, group. The US team, however, is young and hungry and for most of these players its their first time representing the stars and stripes at the World Championships. They will be hungry.

You can follow the game here. Just click on the game graphic in the banner at the top half of the page.

The Syracuse Crunch face off in game 3 of their second round series against the Toronto Marlies tonight. The Crunch are up 2-0 in the series after winning both game in Toronto. Tonight will be their first game of the round played at home.

The Crunch have gotten outstanding performances by their goaltender Karl Gohering and the offense has opened up a bit. The will look to continue the momentum tonight at 7 EST.

You can follow the game here. Or listen live here.

Here is an interesting nugget from Lindsay Kramer's Crunch blog:

Syracuse's current hot streak might be unprecedented in the history of the AHL.

Since Feb. 18, the Crunch has played 31 games, including six in the postseason. It has only lost once in regulation, in Game 4 to Manitoba. Overall, its record is 26 wins, one regulation loss, one overtime loss and three shootout losses.

The only comparable streak was turned in by Cleveland in 1948. That team was 21-0-6 in its last 27 games in the regular season and then went 8-1 in winning the Calder Cup. So it closed 29-1-6.

A new mock draft for you draft gurus like me out there. This one, like most, has us taking Luke Schenn with our 6th overall pick:

6. Columbus Blue Jackets•
Luke Schenn, Kelowna (WHL), D: Would compare more than favorably with last year's No. 5 overall, Karl Alzner, who went to Washington. (Schenn looks to have more offensive upside.)
Five-season projection: Top 4 defenseman, possibly top 2.

Its only a 14 team mock so Colorado's pick is not included.

What's interesting about this one is that this writer is projecting what the players will be 5 years from when they are drafted - not what they'll ultimately end up in the prime of their career.

As far as the Schenn pick I think it could easily happen. I do however disagree somewhat with the Alzner comparison. I think both are more defensive defensemen but I think Schenn is more physically imposing where Alzner is the more positional player.

Draft year statistics and profile:

Karl Alzner
2006-07 Calgary Hitmen WHL 63 8 39 47 32

Is an ultra-smooth defenseman who has good hockey sense and instincts, which define good players from the great ones. Has an active stick when shadowing the opposing team’s forwards. Plays with great position and is not shy about initiating contact.

Luke Schenn
2007-08 Kelowna Rockets WHL 57 7 21 28 100

Luke Schenn has incredible upside and at 6'2 210 he has the size to be a top blue line defenseman. Solid skater who holds well in his zone has good shot from the point and can make great outlet passes on the tape he has the ability to be a All-Star defenseman if he stays focused.

Alzner had almost 20 more points but Schenn had almost 70 more PIMs.

The full 14 pick mock can be found here.

Some good hockey on tap for today as we wait for round 3 of the Stanley Cup finals to begin and for me personally, to re-ignite my Detroit hatred.

-LTL

The eliminated pt. II

..and just like that the final four who will compete for the Stanley Cup are decided.

Philly vs. Pit (battle of Pennslyvania)

Detroit vs. Dallas (battle of....D's?)

Anyhow, yesterday both the NY Rangers and the San Jose Sharks were eliminated from their series. Both teams have some interesting pieces that could be available and some tough decisions to make.

We'll start with the Rangers.

NY Rangers

As big a market as they come in the NHL. The Rangers will spend to the cap every year. Lately though they have done a better job at drafting with guys like Girardi, Staal, Dubinski, Lundqvist, Dawes, and Tyutin who all have prominate roles on the team and all were draft picks. That said the Rangers aren't afraid to make free agent splashes as they did last year plucking both Chris Drury and Scott Gomez, two cream of the crops UFAs, out of the free agent pool.

The Rangers had a pretty good year. They finished 5th in the Eastern Conference with 97 points. I think more was expected of them after their big offseason acquisitions but they got into the playoffs and won a round. Unfortunately for them they couldn't match the powerhouse that Pittsburgh (the luckiest team on earth) has become. Believe it or not the Rangers struggled mightily to score goals, even with the likes of Jagr, Shanahan, Gomez, Drury and Straka in the lineup. Their 213 goals for were the 4th worst in the conference.

The Rangers have 13 players signed for 33 million. They have, count em, nine unrestrictured free agents and two key restricted free agents. They have a lot of decisions to make as do some of their players.

Jaromir Jagr - the prolific high scoring right wing is 36 now. He will be a UFA this summer but there is talk that he has a 12 million dollar offer on the table from a team in the Russian Super League. Yesterday afternoon one of the TV commentators on NBC said that Jagr wants to play 4 more years but he didn't specifically say the NHL. Nobody is really sure what Jagr's future holds. No doubt there will be interested NHL teams out there. Afterall he still put up 71 points last season.

Would Howson and the Jackets be intersted? For the right price sure but at this stage in Jagr's career he wouldn't be interested in the Jackets. The Jackets also have bigger holes to fill in their lineup first but if the off season progresses and the Jackets make some moves to fill their bigger holes first and Jagr is still out there... hey, this team could look a lot more attractive and anything could happen.

Brendan Shanahan - another prolific offensive talent who is getting long in the tooth. Shanny is 39 now and has spent the past two season in NY after leaving Detroit. He still had a productive season notching 23g, 23a but is defintely slowing down. If he doesn't retire he'll likely reup with the Rangers for one more go at it.

Similar to Jagr at this point in his career the Jackets wouldn't be a team of destination. Sure we have a top six winger position available (maybe two) and Shanny could fill it but its unlikely either party would pursue the other. Howson would want to go cheaper and younger. Again though, the longer the offseason and the longer some players stay on the market you never know. Who would have thought Peca would be a Jacket this time last year. Don't count on either Shanny or Jagr though.

Martin Straka - a 35 year old center/winger UFA to be. His production also dropped off last year only notching 14g, 27a for 41p. Still Straka is quick, elusive and has always had a scoring touch. As a veteran he is good in all 3 zones but has been injury prone of late only getting into 65 games last season. He also plays hard every single shift. He scored 70+ points the previous two years. I think NY will want him back but if fellow Czech and good buddy Jagr leaves he may also chose to test the market.

I tell ya, I bet Straka is a guy Howson would prusue. I don't think he's priority #1 by any stretch should he lose out on a couple of higher tiered UFAs he could be an interesting target. Straka made 3.3 mil last year so if he would probably have to take a pay cut but I think he could help us. Of course it takes two to tango and Straka may prefer a proven winner at this stage of his career.

Sean Avery - a 28 year old UFA to be agitator/center. If the Jackets want more sandpaper well this is your guy. Avery is an underrated player b/c its always his circus act on the ice that gets the print, not his hockey skills. With Jared Boll in the lineup and guys like Dorsett and Sestito on the way Howson probably will take a pass on pursuing this guy. Plus Avery is more of a 3rd liner and we have those. Avery also seems to love the bright lights of NY and I highly doubt he'd want to settle down in a place like Columbus at this stage of his career. I think he'll re-sign in NY.

Paul Mara - a 28 year old 6'4" 219 lb defensemen who is a UFA to be. Mara has put up some decent offensive numbers especially with Phoenix when he had back to back 40+ point seasons. He has also QB'd the PP. In NY his offensive role has been reduced but he has improved his defensive game.

I really like Mara as a possibility for the Jackets. He's just now in his prime, he's big, he's mobile, he's stays relatively healthy. Unfortunately he shoots left or I'd really REALLY like him. Howson has got to have him on his list of targets. I don't see him as the solution for our #1 PP QB but Howson has stated they are after two d-men and as our second target I really think Mara could help on the blueline. I think he's an upgrade over a guy like Hainsey.

Michael Rozsival - a 29 year old defensemen who will be a UFA this summer. Rozsival has some good offensive instincts for a blueliner and has put up 38, 40, 30 over his past 3 years all while having a even or better +/-. The knock on Rozsival is that he's to soft. His game actually reminds me quite a bit of Ron Hainsey of which I'm not a fan. It appears the Rangers do not have much of an interest in re-signing him.

I'm sure Rozsival is on the Jackets' watch list but I don't think he's ahead of guys like Campbell, Redden or Liles. Quite frankly if Howson were to sign Rozsival I guess he might as well just keep Hainsey who at least knows the team, coaching staff, system and town. Rozsival's an option I think, especially if the Jackets can't land one of those other names but I can't see the Jackets going all out for his services.

The Rangers have a lot of good young players under contract that I'm if the Rags wanted to shake things up the Jackets would definitely listen. Guys like Girardi and Dubinsky were rumored to Columbus during that month or so stretch were both team's scouts might as well have bouth season tickets for in the opposing cities. Those two players have done nothing but improve since that time. I doubt they go anywhere but they would look good in the bug.

San Jose Sharks

Anything short of the Stanley Cup this year was a dissapointment for the Sharks. They had a great regular season but once again came up short in the playoff getting eliminated in 6 by the Dallas Stars.

San Jose is one of those teams where I can see a major shake up occuring. They have made the playoffs the past 4 years and have been considered Stanley Cup favorites only to fizzle out. 3 out of the past 4 seasons they have been ousted in round 2.

Management has went for it as well making big moves over the past couple of deadlines to bolster their lineup for a Cup run. Craig Rivet last year and Brian Campbell this year each cost them 1st round picks and in Campbell's case as young roster player in Jonathan Bernier as well.

They have some questions surrounding the future of Patrick Marleau who is their captain and their head coach Ron Wilson has just ended his 4th season behind the bench and seems to be wearing out his welcome.

They have 12 players signed for 36 million next season with some keys UFAs and RFAs to lock up. They are a team that won't touch the cap as they operate on a budget so there will be some decisions to make.

Also something else to note is that San Jose does not have a draft pick in the first 3 rounds of this year's draft. The Jackets have 9 picks (just throwing that out there!).

Lets take a look at some of their intriguing players:

Partick Marleau - Marleau is no stranger to CBJ fans as his name has popped up in numerous trade rumors this past year as the club tries to fill that vacant #1 center position. Marleau is 28 and is signed for 2 more seasons at 6.3 mil per. What interseting about Marleau is that he has a no trade clause that kicks in July 1st so if the Sharks want to move him they have to do it before then.

Marleau's year wasn't the best. He has been thrown under the bus by his head coach in Wilson the past two seasons. He only notched 48 points through 78 games but had a decent playoff scoring 4g, 4a for 8 points in 13 games. He is a legit 1st line center in this league whose biggest draw back is inconsistancy.

Think Howson is interested? You bet your ass he is. When prompted about Marleau Howson has been coy and said "he can't comment on it". Translation - he is an option and IMO he will pursue him this offseason. Now pursuing and landing are two completely different things. Many teams need a #1 center so if San Jose does put out a "Patrick Marleau For Sale" sign it will be interesting to see what offers come their way. The Jackets have the assests to make a juicy offer but no telling how much Howson is willing to pay. Keep you eye on this one.

Brian Campbell - a 29 year old offensive dynamo defensemen who is slated to be a UFA come July 1st. Campbell will be the big catch defensively if the Sharks can't get him resigned. He scored 8g, 54a for 62p in 83gp and was also a +8. This guy would solve our PPQB problems. He is however only average defensively and isn't the bigget guy in the world so he can get pushed off pucks. No doubt San Jose will try to lock him down but reading some Shark fan reactions many are on the bubble as to whether he is worth the 6+ mil price tag he's most certainly going to command.

Lets just cut to the chase. Howson would love to land this guy. I bet he would offer 6+ mil for 6 or 7 years. Yes he's got some flaws but surround him with good quality shutdown d-men and your offensive problems from the blueline are WELL on their way to getting solved. If Campbell test free agency look for a big fat juicy offer from the Jackets. The only question will be would if Brian was interested in coming here -- the Jackets would have to overpay in price and term to convince him so.

Jody Shelley - god love him and I'm sure a lot of Jacket fans out there would love to have him back but I think his days in Columbus are over until retirement. Jody has a lot of good years left in him and if San Jose doesn't re-sign he'll most certainly catch on with another team.

Jeremy Roenick - believe it or not the 38 year old UFA to be had somewhat of a resurection last year notching 14g and 19a for 33p in 69gp. Roenick of course is no longer the impact player he used to be but has carved out a niche for himself as a depth player that can be worked in where ever you'd like him. Roenick was a bargain last year at 500k and my guess is that he at least has another year in front of him, most likely staying with the Sharks.

Definitely not a guy Howson would have any interest in but Roenick was a good story. The rediculous thing is that Roenick's 14 goals would have been good for tied for 3rd in team scoring with Jason Chimera (my do we need an influx of offense!) on the Jackets.

Joe Pavelski - a 23 year old center who is an RFA this year. Pavelski was a steal in the 7th round of the draft and should Partick Marleau be dealt this kid has the ability to step right in and be a 2nd line center for the Sharks. He had 19g, 21a in his first full season in the NHL. Lots of teams would love to get a guy like this.

Should San Jose have a hard time signing him or if they want a shakeup Pavelski would certainly be a valuable trading chip. Should offer sheets become the new trend then certainly a lot of teams would look into a guy like Pavelski including Howson.

Those are the main pieces for the Sharks. I see them keeping one of Marleau or Campbell but not both. They do however have some interesting complimentatry players that need new contracts like Ryan Clowe and Christian Erhoff. I can't see them parting with their core like Thorton, Michalek, Rivet, Carle, Cheechoo or Nabakov.

So there you have it. I see Howson most interested in Campbell and Marleau and actually there is a better than average chance one of them is a Blue Jackets come camp. New York has some interesting options on defense in Mara or Rozsival that could also be pursued if Howson strikes out on some of his other options further up the list.

-LTL

Crunch win again + Howson nugget for you draft gurus

The Syracuse Crunch win again in a 3-1 victory over Toronto. I didn't get to listen to the game but judgin by the stats it looks like Karl Gohering played on hell of a game stopping 44 of 45 shots.

Konopka, MacKenzie & Rycroft each had the tallies for the Crunch. Brassard, Westcott, MacKenzi, Motherwell all had an assist a piece.

Believe it or not no fights in this one. The 3rd Crunch goal was an empty netter by Rycroft.

The Crunch train is rolling along. They head back home to Syracuse for their next game on Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. EST.

Kind of fun actually rooting for a team in spring isn't it?! I could get used to this.

Also I just read this Howson nugget from a Leafs poster on HFBoards:

Scott Howson GM Columbus was on the intermission program between periods of Marlies and Syracuse today ..

He said they're looking for a top line center and then joked that Stamkos will not there when they pick at #6.. He stated that his organization is missing good young Dmen and the draft is TOP heavy in them this year and as many as 6 of the top 10 picks will be Dmen this year, so he is looking at taking one this year.

He mentioned no names but one could assume that if the big 3 go in the TOP 5 then Luke Schenn might be their guy at #6 and if a player like Alex Pietrangelo falls out of the top 5 then he might take him.

No real surprise there. This organization is definitely missing an elite prospect in the system on the blueline.

What is a bit surprising is that there is no mention of trading that pick but then again he could have noted that in the interview but this particular poster may have omitted it.

Anyhow if the Jackets stand pat at #6 I think its a near certainty they grab a d-man. Here is my mock draft in terms of the top 10:

Tampa Bay - Steven Stamkos

LA - Zach Bogosian

Atlanta - Drew Doughty

St. Louis - Alex Pietrangelo

NYI - Nikita Filatov

Columbus - Luke Schenn

Toronto - Cody Hodgson

Phoenix - Colin Wilson

Nashville - Tyler Myers

Vancouver - Mikkel Boedker

Luke Schenn player proflie:

Ht/Wt:6.02/210 lbs

Position:D

Drafted From:Kelowna

Luke Schenn has incredible upside and at 6'2 210 he has the size to be a top blue line defenseman. Solid skater who holds well in his zone has good shot from the point and can make great outlet passes on the tape he has the ability to be a All-Star Defenseman if he stays focused.

-LTL

The eliminated

Two of the four second round series are now over. Montreal and Colorado have been elminated. Lets take a quick look to see if there are any players of interest to the Jackets from both of these teams.

First thing is first though. With Philadelphia knocking off Montreal in 5 games the Colorado 1st round pick the Jackets obtained for Adam Foote moves up a spot to #19.

So currently the Jackets have the following picks which to work with in this June's NHL Entry draft:

1st - 6th, 19th
2nd - 36th
3rd - 66th
4th - 96th
5th - 126th, 134th
6th - 156th
7th - 186th

So 9 picks total.

Okay - onto Montreal and Colorado.

Montreal

Montreal really exceeding expectations this year. They finished tops in the Eastern Conference with 104 points and had count em, 7 players with 50 or more points (compare that to the Jackets with 2).

Unfortunately their season ended a little sooner than they'd hoped for as they went out in round 2 of the playoffs but considering they didn't even make the playoffs last season this year can only be judged a success.

So do the Canadiens have any pieces that may attract the Jackets this offseason? Montreal has 16 players locked up for next season at 32 mil. They have a few UFAs in Byran Smolinksi, Michael Ryder, Mark Streit & Patrick Brisebois and a few RFAs with the key one being Andrei Kostistyn. They should have money to keep the players they want.

Don't look for the Canadiens to shake things up much after such a successful year but as every team has in the salary cap era - there will be some player movement. Lets take a look at some of the players:

Mark Streit - he is a 30 year old defensemen UFA to be who is more of a power play specialist. He racked up 62 points in 81 games and even spent some time at the forward position. Its no secret the Jackets need some offensive help on the blueline and for that reason I could see Howson and the Jackets being interested but I think they are looking for more all around defensemen that can contribute in all 3 zones. Streit reminds me of a Bryan Berard type player - the kind of player that would drive Hitch crazy.

Michael Ryder - a 28 year old right wing UFA to be who has twice hit the 30 goal mark in 4 NHL campaigns. Unfortunately for him he had a terrible year this year for the Canadiens potting only 14g and 17a in 70 games. He was also a healthy scratch at times throughout the year. Still though the 28 year old is certain to find plenty of offers waiting for him on July 1st because many will believe, as do I, that he had an off year but the question is how much will he want? He could be the bargain of the summer.

I've got to think Howson would have an interest in Ryder as we certainly could use a type 6 right winger and I think he would work well under Hitch with his solid north/south game with a scoring touch. I've got to believe he's on the Jackets radar but he needs a playmaker so the middle of the ice must be addressed first.

Byran Smolinski - the 36 year old veteran center UFA to be from Toledo OH put in a workman like campaign for the Canadiens as a bottom 6 center collecting 8g, 17a in 64gp. The 25 points were his lowest point total of his NHL career.

Smoke is nearing the end of his NHL career, he'll likely get picked up by a team looking for some depth but I can't see the Jackets interested as they need top 6 players not bottom 6th depth.

Sergei Kostitsyn - a 23 year old left wing who is a RFA. Kostitsyn really came into his own this season scoring 26g, 27a for 53 points. He has game breaking potential offensively but is still rounding out his play in all 3 zones. He's a guy I can't see the Canadiens parting with but with this day in age where RFAs are wanting to get paid like UFAs and offer sheets you never can tell. He made 600k last year so will be looking for a hefty raise.

I doubt Howson would be interested in Kostitsyn as if he were to pursue RFAs or get into the offer sheet business (which I hope he stays out of) then he'll most certainly target a centermen or top 2 defensemen.

Colorado

A team many Jacket players are very familiar with after the "Foote-gate" situation. Unlike the Jackets, Colorado went for it at the deadline adding instead of subtracting but their window is closing. Guys like Forsbert, Foote and Salei were added. In Foote's case of course the Jackets got a 1st round pick in the exchange. The Avs made it to round 2 before getting swept by the Red Wings.

The Avalanche have 13 players signed for 27 million. They have 11 Unrestricted Free Agents and 4 key Restricted Free Agents.

The Avalanche and some of their players have a lot decisions to make. First and foremost is will long term Av 39 year old Joe Sakic call it a career or come back for one more kick at the can? Will oft-injured Peter Forsberg, who IMO is more of a distraction at this point in his career, finally bow out? Then of course are their other UFAs to be - will Foote get re-signed? What about Brunette, Hlinka, Parker, Saure, Theodore, Finger and Liles -- all UFAs this summer.

Do the Avalanche still try to rekindle old champship flames or really start turning the team over to guys like Paul Statsny, Ryan Smyth, Wojtek Wolski, Marek Svatos with guys like Hannan, Clark, Leopold an defense.

Certainly they will resign some of their UFAs but which ones? I don't see them letting their RFAs go besides maybe Svatos.

Lets take a look at some of the more intriguing Avs players that are expected to hit the market.

John Michael Liles - a 27 year old UFA to be defensemen. Liles had his worst season as an NHL pro notching 32 points. He struggled a bit in the first half but really turned it up in the second. He is just now approaching his prime and is very strong offensively and can hold his own defensively. He will hotly pursued should he hit the market as these kinds of players are hard to find.

I think Liles is right at the top, or near the top, of Howson's shopping list this summer. While a guy like Brian Campbell may be the best of the bunch Liles is certainly in the top 3 or 4 of defensemen that could be available this summer. He could really help the Jackets and their anemic powerplay and transition game but there will be a lot of competition for his services this summer. I exepct him to get in that 5 mil per year range - overpayment yes but that's how its done in UFA.

Adam Foote - still awake right?

Joe Sakic - a 38 year old center who is a hall of fame shoe-in. Lots of teams would covet him as he's still got a lot left in the tank but there are really only two options for Sakic, retire or re-sign for another year. The Avalanche would love him back so its really up to him.

Wojtek Wolski - this 22 year old RFA right wing wins the top prize for most interesting first name! Seriously though this kid is the real deal. If offer sheets start flying around like Ironman then certainly teams will be intersted in this guy. In his two full seasons as a pro Wolski put up 50 and then 48 points. He's got excellent offensive abilities although can tend to be a perimeter player. The Avalanche would be nuts not to lock this guy down long term which I think they will.

I'm sure Howson likes Wolski but unfortunately he plays the position that we are deepest in and that's left wing. Although lets not kid ourselves that the Jackets would make room for him if they somehow landed him. Still as I've stated earlier if we are going to throw offer sheets around or make trades then we must address our major needs first and that's down the middle and puck movers on d.

Jeff Finger - a 28 year old defensemen who finally stuck after alot of years in minor league systems. He made it count as well notching 19 points and going a +19 which just happened to coincide with his UFA year. Finger is a top 6 guy that a lot of team may be interested in. He's not super physical and isn't going to put up mountains of points but he was an effective player this year.

I doubt Howson makes a play for Finger. Not when he's got a Finger clone in Aaron Rome whom I think compares favorably to the type of player Finger is. He needs high first pair guys as we have 2nd and 3rd pair players already in the fold.

Peter Forsberg - a 34 year old franchise player who due to his style of game just can't stay healthy at this stage of his career. He's more of a distraction now than a help b/c of his unknown status game in and game out. Still he's got enough talent to keep teams interested. Columbus won't be one of them and he isn't intersted in Columbus as it was said Howson checked on his status during the year and was basically told as such.

Andrew Brunette - a 34 year old left wing who all he does his put up points and stay healthy year in and year out. Brunette can score goals and set up plays and he's great around the net. He's a "heavy" type player as Hitch would say.

He's a left wing but he only made 1.6 last year and if we need to add top 6 wingers I think Brunette would be a solid addition both for his pro North American all around game and price tag. Just move Modin to the right with Nash permanenty. I think Howson has other guys like Malone further up his list but he'll be an option I bet.

Jose Theodore - the on again off again 31 year old UFA goaltender to be. Should Howson make the collosal error of allowing Leclaire to walk via an offer sheet or trade him then Columbus would find themselves in the market for a goaltender. There aren't many on the market this summer but Theodore would be one of them. Don't count on this scenario playing out as Leclaire and Norrena will be the duo again next year.

There you have it. Out of the two teams I think the most likely targets are guys John Michael Liles and Andrew Burnetts from the Avalanche. Michael Ryder could be another player on Howson's shopping list as well. I don't see many trade opportunties from either team but you never know if the Avs can't get something down with a guy like Wolski what could happen.

-LTL