Battle Of Hudson

If last offseason was a break from the norm for the Devils – in that we spent the most money in UFA – this offseason has been a bit of a break the mold type so far too, seeing as we’ll have no big losses to overcome. GM Lou Lamoriello re-signed the Devils’ two biggest free agents in defenseman Andy Greene and goalie Johan Hedberg just after the start of UFA this afternoon. Financial terms haven’t been fully disclosed yet on Hedberg, but finally we’ve at least learned the terms of Greene’s cap hit, which will be $3 million per year for the next four seasons.

I’ve been on record as saying I didn’t want Greene back if it was longer than two years, and surely not at more than $2 million per. That said this isn’t the worst contract Lamoriello’s given out in recent years, even with Greene’s ghastly -22 fresh in the mind last season and with his inconsistent play only becoming consistent under Jacques Lemaire the last two seasons. With Greene’s age and the market for UFA defensemen, if it came to having to move the contract to make room for younger defensemen in a couple years that shouldn’t be a problem. After all, we were able to move Johnny Oduya‘s contract and that was imo far worse than this one. Not to mention the Hawks recently moving the albatross that is Brian Campbell to the Panthers, who proceeded to overpay for a ton more mediocrity over the last twelve hours.

As far as Hedberg goes, I wanted him back and on a one-year deal so mission accomplished from that end. Hopefully the salary isn’t too high but his play certainly did merit a raise from last season’s $1.5 million in cap dollars. Interestingly, both Hedberg and Greene indicated they left money on the table to remain with the Devils. Judging by many of today’s signings, they’re pretty much the only ones who did so. And quite frankly this is why you don’t tank games late in the season, since there’s pretty much no way Hedberg and Greene take hometown discounts if the Devils remained the unmitigated mess they were in the first half.

Also intriguing from our standpoint was one of Lou’s quotes about how they won’t be able to make any more additions without a subtraction (meaning a trade), adding ‘we’re looking to do so’. That’s more than Lou usually admits to in public, especially given how long it took for the financial terms of Greene’s deal to come out. Plus given the fact that Lou admitted we need to improve the puck-moving from the back end leads me to believe he’s indeed working the trade mill.

I’m sure Derek will be along with the recap of the rest of a wild day that you could make a David Letterman top ten list of bad contracts with. Not to mention the Avs’ hideous trade of a first and second-round picks for the Caps’ injury-prone Semyon Varlamov. Shades of the Senators’ Pascal Leclaire deal a couple of years ago, except that they gave up ‘only’ the second-rounder.

Last offseason, all we heard for two months was how dare the Devils violate the ‘spirit’ of the CBA by violating rules that by and large didn’t exist. About the only thing you could question the legality of the first contract we offered Ilya Kovalchuk was the minimum salary on the back end, which was (because of inflation) lower than the current minimum salary…but that wasn’t why that deal was overturned. Because apparently when every other team in the league skirts the rules they get let off but when we do it, we get thrown in jail. And our second Kovalchuk contract followed the guidelines set by arbitrator Richard Bloch and yet the league still was going to bounce it unless they got concessions from the NHLPA at the point of a gun. Concessions that were in theory supposed to curb the longer, too cap-friendly contract.

Why bring this up again now? On the eve of this year’s UFA frenzy the Sabres caused a stir by signing defenseman Christian Erhoff to a ten-year, $40 million deal. Yes, that’s a lot of years but the cap hit’s low…but what really makes this deal roll my eyes is the structure of it (all numbers in millions):

Year 1: 10 (8 signing bonus, 2 salary)
Year 2: 8 (5 signing bonus, 3 salary)
Year 3: 4
Year 4: 4
Year 5: 4
Year 6: 4
Year 7: 3
Year 8: 1
Year 9: 1
Year 10: 1

So basically, Ehrhoff gets approximately half the value of the contract in the first two years of a ten-year deal, thanks to a $13 million signing bonus. I’m sure the Sabres didn’t violate an actual rule but if the crux of the NHL’s argument against us last year was that we violated the ‘spirit’ then why should they let the Sabres skate by? Or the Flyers, who also ridiculously front-loaded Ilya Bryzgalov‘s contract hours after they traded Jeff Carter, who they signed to a twelve-year deal but managed to trade him before his NTC kicked in and before they paid one penny of that deal.

Don’t misunderstand me, the Sabres are the next to last team I want to see get punished by the league and I’m glad they got Ehrhoff and have an owner willing to spend. In fact, I’m in a good mood tonight and was going to let this go without a post/rant but I’m just continually astounded by the hypocrisy of this league when they literally let everyone else get away with murder and took away two high picks from us for not violating any rule on the books. I guess the only saving grace was that they didn’t make us give up our first rounder this year, can you imagine what a disaster that would have been – if we missed out on Adam Larsson because of this crap?!

Besides, this Ehrhoff contract was probably a warning shot if anything. I can’t wait to see some team sign Brad Richards or even offer sheet Steven Stamkos tomorrow using much the same structure to keep the cap hit down – and in Stamkos’s case make it untenable to match a contract that has a ton of money up front. And when, exactly will the NHL make an example of a team other than the Devils?! I can’t fathom that age on the back end of the contract is the only thing that constitutes circumvention and violating the spirit of the CBA.

Christian Ehrhoff has decided he’ll be happy in Buffalo. After Vancouver dealt his negotiating rights to the Islanders, the free agent to be told Garth Snow no yesterday- forcing another deal with the Sabres last night. Well, apparently the Sabres are what the soon to be 29-year old German defenseman had in mind, reportedly agreeing to a three-year deal worth an average of $5.4 million per season.

A former fourth round pick with the Sharks, the puckmoving blueliner fared well after being dealt to Vancouver two years ago for prospects Daniel Rahimi and Patrick White. He improved on his career best 42 points in ’08-09 with San Jose by increasing to 44 in ’09-10 and 50 this past season that saw the Canucks win the President’s Trophy, going all the way to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup before losing to Boston in their third appearance. Ehrhoff attained new highs in assists (36), points (50), power play points (28) and shots (209) over 79 contests with Vancouver. He also connected six times on the power play for a second consecutive year while posting a respectable plus-19 rating. Over two seasons as a Canuck, he went 28-66-94 with 94 penalty minutes, a plus-55 rating, 12 PPG and six game-winners.

Despite an outstanding season that included 13 points (2-11-13) during the postseason, Ehrhoff was a minus-13 with most of his production (1-7-8) via the Canucks’ top rated power play. Vancouver was no match for Boston, who won the battle of special teams and outphysicaled them en route to their first Cup since ’72.

While Ehrhoff can definitely give Buffalo a boost offensively, he can be attacked in his end and comes at a hefty price. However, with a back line that also features Tyler Myers, Jordan Leopold, recently acquired Robyn Regehr and Marc-Andre Gragnani, the Sabres should be formidable. Perhaps new owner Terry Pegula is serious when he says he wants to bring a championship to Buffalo.

John Tavares is the centerpiece. Perhaps Ryan Strome is the Robin to Tavares’ Batman for the Islanders as another New Era kicks off this summer with the pivotal new arena vote for Long Island. Much of the franchise’s future depends upon it if owner Charles Wang is to keep a team that once won four consecutive Stanley Cups (1980-83).

When former No.1 pick Kyle Okposo subbed for Garth Snow and made the fifth overall selection of Strome official, it allowed Islander fans to dream of a potential dynamic duo that could steer the struggling franchise back to respectability. Even if Snow swung and missed on Christian Ehrhoff before recouping a fourth round pick from Buffalo, who now has less than 24 hours to sign this year’s version of Dan Hamhuis, the Islander GM is taking his best shot- willing to roll the dice to bolster his club’s chances of returning to the postseason in ’11-12.

While he focuses on upgrading the current roster, Snow and Isles’ brass went for skill in 18 year-old Strome, who is a crafty center with the kind of playmaking capabilities the club has lacked. After only playing 27 games with the Niagara Ice Dogs after coming over in a trade from the Barrie Colts, the Missisauga Ontario native exploded with 33 goals and 73 assists totaling 106 points over 65 contests in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League). He also went 6-6-12 in the playoffs, boosting his stock to the point where the Islanders chose him over Sean Couturier, who fell to the Flyers at No.8. Even better, Strome is familiar with Tavares, who he trains with.

“I work out with John, and he already called me as soon as it happened, I couldn’t be happier. I have a guy to mentor me through the summer. I see him every day. I think I’m in a very good situation,” Tavares’ thrilled future teammate said of getting the chance to play with his buddy.

Like I said, I couldn’t be happier with the situation, and I’m just excited to get things started.

Will Tavares/Strome become Sakic/Forsberg, Lecavalier/Richards, Crosby/Malkin, Datsyuk/Zetterberg? That’s the level of excitement Islander fans have for their newest draft pick, who hopefully will make the transformation sooner and be part of a nucleus that also features Nino Neiderreiter, who has a good chance of making the team next year.

“They’re a young team. They’ve got a ton of assets. I want to grow with the team, and I want to win a championship. I know I’m young saying that, but that’s what you want to do. You want to build from the ground up and that’s what New York’s doing, and I hope to contribute to that.“

Strome enjoyed much success last season that it made one ponder what the biggest difference was.

“I think just confidence in the second-year round. I worked really hard in the summer. I credit that to athlete training center where I work out with John, obviously. I came back with a ton of comments. I got the ball rolling early, and just tried to keep it rolling through the whole season. I mean, confidence is such a big thing in hockey, and that’s what I tried to do.”

With the Islanders continuing to build around Tavares, Okposo, Matt Moulson, Michael Grabner, Blake Comeau and Josh Bailey up front, overlooked is a blueline that features Travis Hamonic, Andrew MacDonald and anchor Mark Streit, who will return with future pieces in Calvin de haan and Matt Donovan, who should only bolster the back end for years to come. With Al Montoya recovering from surgery and Rick DiPietro fresh for the Fall, it should allow the organization to show patience with Kevin Poulin and Mikko Koskinen, who both got valuable experience in ’10-11.

The club also has plenty of room if they decide to add a free agent when noon rolls around tomorrow. Snow does have to re-sign Group II’s Comeau and Bailey, who also might be used as trade bait- depending on how they view the former ’08 first rounder. Jack Hillen, Ty Wishart, Jesse Joensuu, Dylan Reese, Jeremy Colliton and Michael Haley are also restricteds they must decide on. Radek Martinek is likely done while enforcer Zenon Konopka should receive interest on the market.

Certainly, the pieces are in place for this New Era that hopefully will include a new arena, ensuring the Islanders’ home off the Meadowbrook. There’s plenty for Islander fans to look forward to and too much at stake.

2011 ISLANDERS DRAFT

Rd    Overall    Pos     Name    
1      5th           C        Ryan Strome
2      34th         D        Scott Mayfield
2      50th         C        Johan Sundstrom
3      63rd         D       Andrei Pedan
4      95th         D        Robbie Russo
5      125th       LW     John Persson
5      127th       D        Brenden Kitchton
7      185th       C        Mitchell Theoret

It’s been a while since I got the chance to post. Just been quite busy lately. A lot’s happened over the course of five days, including the 2011 NHL Draft completed last weekend in St. Paul. While Adam Larsson was falling into the Devils’ lap and the Islanders tabbing scoring center Ryan Strome fifth, it was a bit of a longer wait for True Blue fans crammed into at SNAP Sports Bar on 8th Avenue and 14th where the Rangers hosted a Draft Party for Friday’s first round.

We made the trip along with the bro, friend and Dad and greeted rabid Blueshirt fans, who were pumped for festivities that included guest appearances from former picks Dylan McIlrath, Christian Thomas and Carl Hagelin. The trio all were superb signing everything and greeting everyone. It was MC’d by team PA announcer Joe Tolleson, who looked thrilled to be there. 😛 Hey. It wasn’t a big place. So, he was basically stuck in a corner with helpful Rangers PR assistants, who handed out sheets for Ranger Trivia pertaining to the draft. Despite the chaotic scene, that had many standing including yours truly, it was a fun time had by all. From our section 411, the comical Chris, Big Mikey were there along with Bob, who rocked our favorite Ranger jersey Petr Prucha. If only I could upload the pics. There also were some other cool fans, including two women with enough pins for a Ranger army. Plus one of the cooler dudes John, who started what else but a “Let’s Go Rangers,” chant as our turn finally came.

As the smoking cigar son of a gun made his way up there along with Gordie Clark, a special guest also went up to the podium to say a few words about his brother. In the second emotional scene of the night, Aaron Boogaard spoke about how much Derek Boogaard meant. Whether he donned the Wild #24 or the Rangers #94, he always made time for the little people off the ice, who needed it. The Boogey Man was a fan favorite in Minnesota and got a warm reception like the one he received along with the infamous “Boos” when our team returned to play the Wild during the season. It was in that moment that we all were united, quietly watching and listening to every word Aaron said about his brother. That’s when the hockey community is at its best. Very strong and supportive. Kudos go out to Kevin of The NYR Blog for making special Boogey t-shirts with all proceeds going to one of Boogaard’s charities. He raised over a thousand dollars. Tremendous job!

Sometimes, it’s not always about super fans like Dancin’ Larry, who made the rounds in future captain Ryan Callahan’s jersey as if he was some rockstar. Sometimes, it’s about emotional moments like when troll Gary Bettman brought out former top Draft Chief Scout E.J. McGuire’s family to begin the proceedings. There stood his wife and two kids honoring their husband/father who put so much into the game of hockey, making it better for us to follow. Only the good die young. So, this Draft was unlike others with more sentiment attached before Ryan Nugent-Hopkins went first to Edmonton and Gabriel Landeskog second to Colorado with Florida selecting Jonathan Huberdeau. Bettman also paid homage to former part-time Calgary owner Harley Hotchkiss, who passed at the age of 83 a couple of days prior to that night. It’s in these moments that our commish is at his best. Whatever you make think of him, he knows how to handle such heartbreaking news.

In a 75-minute span leading up to our pick, three people in our sport were remembered. We all took part, honoring them the best we could. As our selection was finally made with Clark opting for the leading point getter in Team USA’s 18-U gold medal J.T. Miller, cheers went up for the Ohio kid who’s attending hockey power North Dakota this Fall. An exciting moment for any 18 year-old on a special day.

“It’s an unbelievable honor, an original six team, a great state to play in. It will be great to hopefully play there soon,” a pleased Miller said. “I was a little shocked. I only had one meeting with them. So I wasn’t really expecting it. But getting my name called was the best thing in the world, and I couldn’t thank them enough.”

Miller also discussed what he expects to work on this summer.

“I have to get a little stronger and faster and be able to play with some men out there. I have to work out in the off-season and play this next year in North Dakota and see what happens there. … I’m going to get stronger, I guess, probably conditioning, getting in a little better shape so I can last a little longer with the stronger guys, to be able to compete at my best and be successful doing it.”

Miller is listed as a center/left wing, which definitely is a team need. In 56 games in the USHL, Miller totaled 50 points (15-35-50) before pacing the gold medal winning Team USA with 13 points at the World U-18’s. He was ranked 23rd among North American skaters. Now, he’ll get to play for one of the best college programs that’s produced current Devil tandem Zach Parise and Travis Zajac. Definitely encouraging for Garden Faithful.

Slated for only four picks with none until Round 4, Glen Sather worked the phones and dealt prospect Evgeny Grachev to St. Louis for their third round pick, which turned into Notre Dame bound Steven Fogarty. The 72nd overall pick is a 6-2, 194-pound center who possesses playmaking capabilities and sound defensive skills. It sounds like a potential steal. The Minnesota native starred for high school Edina Hornets, notching 47 points (23-24-47) over 24 games. Slats discussed many things in a rare conference call afterwards, including why he parted with Grachev, who was once thought of in high regard. Indicating that the former ’09 third rounder wanted a change and that the Blues were the one team that expressed interest, Sather admitted that he had shopped Grachev for a while. He noted that they felt he was coming along slowly in their system, which saw the talented Russian shift to center and improve gradually in his second pro year at Connecticut. They liked Fogarty, who sounds like a better fit but weren’t down on Grach. Just felt it was best to move forward and give him a fresh start. He’ll get to see familiar face Vladimir Tarashenko, who the Blues are hoping for big things from. Best wishes to Grach.

The other Ranger picks are as follows:

C Michael St. Croix 4th Rd (106th)
RW Shane McColgan 5th Rd (134th)
D Samuel Noreau 5th Rd (136th)
D Peter Ceresnak 6th Rd (172nd)

We’ll have more details on those and the rest of the Devils, Islanders and Sabres picks in what amounts to a busy weekend with the unofficial NHL Holiday July 1 on Friday. From the looks of it, Jaromir Jagr could be returning for one last hurrah in Pittsburgh. He was rumored to be close to a one-year deal between $1.4 million and 2 M. There has been plenty of activity with the Islanders sending a fourth round pick to Vancouver for the negotiating rights to defenseman Christian Ehrhoff, in hopes of convincing him to stay on Long Island. Our take is that he’ll bolt for Detroit, which makes sense due to Brian Rafalski’s retirement. The Brad Richards Watch is on with the Rangers expected to be the frontrunner after buying out former captain Chris Drury earlier today. Certainly a bittersweet day for one of the classiest Rangers, who always acquitted himself well despite a slew of injuries. Wishing Captain Clutch best of luck moving forward.

I’ll have more including some fun filled FA predictions sometime tomorrow. Stay tuned.

One other note from the Draft Party. Apparently, I made TV on MSG during our pick. Dad caught it on the tube, which of course I missed even when it was replayed. I don’t really care. But that’s cool. Haha. Overall, it was nice to meet other fans along with familiar faces amidst chaos. I only wish more fans could’ve been involved instead of it limited to just people 21-and-over. I guess that’s what happens with the Renovation and on a Friday night in the city. Hope to do it again next year!

During the Devils’ dark days in December and early January, all I read on various internet message boards was the phrase ‘Lose for Larsson…or L4L’, in reference to Swedish defenseman Adam Larsson (above) – who was then thought of as the potential #1 pick in this year’s draft. A funny thing happened on the way to the draft though, the Devils did nothing but win in the second half and yet through an odd twist of fate the Devils still wound up getting Larsson, a potential backbone on their blueline for years to come. And they did it without selling out or settling for losses even in the final days and weeks when they were officially out of the playoffs.

Larsson has been widely described as the most NHL-ready defenseman in the draft and a good two-way player in the making, surely music to the ears of Lou Lamoriello and scouting director David Conte, who as usual announced the pick to the Minnesota audience and the thousands braving the rain to watch the big LED screen outside the Prudential Center. Not only does Larsson have offensive potential with a big point shot (and a right-handed shot at that, something we’ve been missing for a while) but also has size at 6-2 and nearly 200 pounds as an 18 year old and plays the part with a physical game.

While I was campaigning for Gabriel Landeskog in an earlier blog, in the back of my mind I figured Larsson would be gone in the first three picks anyway, especially after Colorado traded John-Michael Liles to the Leafs which some speculated could have opened up a spot for Larsson but instead they took Landeskog. If Lou really wanted him, he handled it strangely since it was publicly obvious Lou and Conte really took to the kid. Or perhaps it was more of a poker tactic, hyping up the guy you like a little to get the guy you like a lot (Larsson). Figures once again Pierre McGuire gushed over a Devils pick, calling Larsson the ‘steal of the draft’. If a fourth overall’s a steal I can’t wait to see this kid play.

The only drama with the pick came beforehand when rumors started up again about a possible Brent Burns trade with the Wild, possibly contingent on who Florida took at three. Fortunately we didn’t have to find out whether the rumor was true or not since Florida took Johnathan Huberdeau and left Larsson for us. Interestingly, Lou was the first GM to congratulate the Bruins on their Stanley Cup win and also the first to acknowledge the fans who showed up to the draft party. Of course, Larsson was the only one of the first several picks who wasn’t interviewed by TSN – probably a Lou embargo. Oh well, hopefully we’ll have many chances to hear him in the months and years ahead.

Right after the Devils’ pick the Isles took center Ryan Strome, providing a nice complement to recent #1 overall John Tavares. Instead of announcing the pick himself, GM Garth Snow allowed former first-rounder Kyle Okposo to do it. Ironically when center Sean Coutrier fell to the eighth pick, the Flyers scooped up the big man, who was once touted as a possible #1 overall with Larsson. Ironic both because he could eventually fill the void created by trading both their franchise centers in the matter of hours yesterday and also because their reasoning for trading them was in part because they floated and relied on their talent. Coutrier slipped in part because of that same rep. If they have the success with Coutrier they had with those two though it’ll be an excellent pick, unfortunately.

DRAFT DAY ’11

It’s only been a week since a new champion was crowned with the Bruins claiming their fifth Cup and first since ’72 over unlucky franchise Vancouver. Fast forward till now and already the awards were handed out the other night in Vegas- featuring Hart winner Corey Perry, Vezina winner Tim Thomas, Norris recipient Nick Lidstrom, who edged our pick Shea Weber. Other fun awards like the Selke (Ryan Kesler), Byng (Martin St. Louis), Calder (Jeff Skinner), Masterton (Ian Laperriere), Adams (Dan Bylsma) and King Clancy (Doug Weight) also were on display.

With the ’10-11 season finally complete, we get a bird’s eye view of the future over the weekend with the early stages of the NHL Draft tonight in St. Paul, Minnesota. With everyone still buzzing over the monster Flyer trades of former ’03 Draft duo Mike Richards and Jeff Carter, blue chip prospects like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Gabriel Landeskog, Jonathan Huberdeau, Adam Larsson and Dougie Hamilton take center stage later when our great commish is greeted with traditional jeers. If only he had a sense of humor like NBA adversary David Stern, who got the last word in at the end of Round One last night in Newark.

What makes Draft Day so intriguing is that puckers are always speculating who their team could wind up with. I’m no Draft guru but will be at the Rangers Draft Party in the city with our usual crew for what shapes up as one pick in the top 100 and a league low four overall due to the Tim Erixon deal. Assuming they don’t trade down to acquire a second rounder, the Blueshirts will pick 15th, behind the Devils (4th), Islanders (5th) and Winnipeg (7th), who still don’t have a team name after relocating from Atlanta. If they’re not going to be called the Jets II, then why not honor tradition and go outside the box with the Winnipeg Flashes for Teemu Selanne? One can dream. Oddly enough, the Rangers get to pick right before the Sabres (16th), which could be fun. What if we snag their guy? Not that this organization has ever had a great track record. Outside of superhyped Marc Staal, our first round has been a disaster- highlighted by Hugh Jessiman in ’03, Al Montoya in ’04 sans Lauri Korpikoski, who got a raw deal here. A closer look at our First Round since the ’99 debacle of Pavel Brendl and Jamie Lundmark:

RANGERS FIRST ROUND (’00 – ’10)

’00 None
’01 Dan Blackburn-10th
’02 None
’03 Hugh Jessiman-12th
’04 Al Montoya-6th, Lauri Korpkoski-19th
’05 Marc Staal-12th
’06 Bobby Sanguinetti-21st
’07 Alexei Cherepanov-17th
’08 Michael Del Zotto-20th
’09 Chris Kreider-19th
’10 Dylan McIlrath-10th

The first thing that stands out is our most success has come with defensemen highlighted by Staal and Michael Del Zotto, who must bounce back from a forgettable ’10-11 to still be in the picture. Obviously, Jessiman was a total bust- never the same after an ankle sprain- while Sanguinetti never got a sniff before being moved to Carolina last Fall. The club has had tough luck with a freak injury in the weight room dooming Blackburn while there’s still shock over Alexei Cherepanov’s death. Amazingly enough, it will be three years this Fall. One can only imagine how the super skilled Russian could’ve impacted our team. Instead, we’re left wondering. Recent first rounders have been better with the aforementioned Del Zotto faring well his rookie year before taking a step back. Cherepanov was the right pick who probably would’ve been a steal. Though still unsigned, Chris Kreider shows lots of upside with quick wheels, good hands and solid work ethic as he returns to BC for his junior season. And Dylan McIlrath could be the punisher our back end has lacked. Of course, he better work out because they passed up on Cam Fowler, who would’ve looked good running our powerless play.

The thing about drafts is it’s a crapshoot. You got so many experts telling us who won/lost before these kids even lace ’em up. Honestly, patience is a must with any prospect. The key being development. The Rangers haven’t always fared well there, messing up Jamie Lundmark, Manny Malhotra, while showing no patience with Korpikoski or Ethan Werek, who was swapped for Oscar Lindberg with Rangers West. They also botched Evgeny Grachev, who now has two years of Connecticut under his belt. Will he ever make it?

More encouraging is how the organization stuck with Mike Sauer despite a slew of injuries. He now is our toughest D since fan favorite Jeff Beukeboom. Derek Stepan and Artem Anisimov also have looked good thus far. So, it’s not all negative. There’s also gems like Henrik Lundqvist (’00-7th Rd), Petr Prucha (’02-8th Rd), Brandon Dubinsky (’04-2nd Rd) and Ryan Callahan (’04-4th Rd)- who prove that our scouts fare better later on. Sauer, Stepan and Anisimov were all grabbed in Round Two along with recently signed Christian Thomas while Carl Hagelin (’07-6th Rd), Tomas Kundratek (’08-3rd Rd), Dale Weise (’08-4th Rd) and Ryan Bourque (’09-3rd Rd) all were taken later with the idea they could be part of the future.

Sometimes, you luck out as they did when Bob Gainey was foolish enough to take Scott Gomez off our hands, giving up McDonagh and Pavel Valentenko while also receiving PK fixture Tom Pyatt. Unless the Habs win the Cup soon, that one could be a heist of biblical proportions. It won’t get decided until down the road. It’s what makes the Draft exciting. The projections, second guessing and trades all give the first ’11-12 event some mojo. No wonder so many on Twitter are geared up. I’d much rather think about tonight than July 1 with a potential bidding war for Brad Richards, who I want no part of despite John Tortorella’s obsession. That’s for another day.

Tonight’s all about starry eyed kids whose dreams will come true when they hit the podium greeted by Gary Bettman. A chance to smile and pose for the cameras in their new NHL jersey. That’s what makes it so special. Who will be the next great stars for the Devils, Islanders, Rangers and Sabres along with 26 other teams? At least we find out who we’ll be following. Enjoy every minute of it.

Almost completely overshadowed by the draft eve madness in Philly and elsewhere around the hockey world is the NHL schedule, which came out earlier this afternoon. Highlights for the Devils’ schedule include:

-The season opener at the Rock on Saturday, October 8 at 7 PM against a suddenly very different Flyers team, the first of three straight home games to begin the season – including a Columbus Day matinee against the Canes.
-Winnipeg’s first visit to New Jersey since 1996 on Saturday, November 5 (another 7 PM start) as well as trips there on December 3 and January 14, also 7 PM starts EST.
-Six more matchups with the Rangers, the first of which will be at the Rock on Tuesday, December 20 at 7 PM.
-Boston’s first trip in as Stanley Cup champs on January 4
-Anaheim visiting the Rock on Friday, February 17 (a possible date to retire ex-Devil and Duck Scott Niedermayer‘s number 27?)
-A St. Patrick’s day 1 PM showdown against the Penguins, which could very well be another throwback jersey game
-Ottawa comes in to end the regular season on April 7, a Saturday 3 PM start for Fan Appreciation Day.

As far as the other locals, the Rangers begin the season in Stockholm against the Kings (with new marquee center Mike Richards) on the 7th and Ducks on the 8th. The Blueshirts’ first game stateside will also be their first showdown with the Isles at the Mausoleum on the 15th, but because of renovations to MSG the Rangers won’t actually play at home until the 27th and have a four-game Western Canada swing before that. And since the Rangers’ season has come down to Game #82 the last two seasons, this year’s final game of the season is another playoff rematch with the Caps at the Garden, also an April 7 3 PM start.

Like the Devils, the Isles also begin the season with a block of home games (four, to be exact) – opening on April 8 against the Panthers at 8 PM. Our first meetings with the Isles are a home-and-home showdown just after Thanksgiving, with 1 PM starts on the Island on the 25th and here on the 26th. Somewhat astonishingly, their final home game is on Thursday the 5th against Winnipeg. Okay, they’re still a conference rival – for this year – but that looks weird. They also close the season on the 7th against Columbus and new acquisition Jeff Carter at 7 PM. Major double-take on that one.

Along with the Rangers, Buffalo begins the season overseas by playing the Ducks and Kings on the 7th and 8th, only they’ll be in Helsinki for the first game and Berlin, Denmark for the second. Buffalo returns home to begin their stateside campaign against the rival Canes at the HSBC Arena on the 14th. Their first grudge match with the Flyers since the playoffs will be on November 2. Buffalo will end their home schedule with a game against the hated Leafs on April 3 before closing on the road against the two teams that ended their last couple of seasons – at Philly on the 5th and Boston on the 7th.

Every so often, the Flyers do an overhaul. After acquiring the free agent rights to Ilya Bryzgalov from the Coyotes, it was obvious that Paul Holmgren was desperate to get the Russian signed, sealed and delivered as their latest No.1 goalie. With speculation that former 40-goal sniper Jeff Carter would move to Columbus, the much discussed trade finally came down today with the center going to the Blue Jackets for forward Jakub Voracek, plus a first (8th overall) and third round pick in this weekend’s Draft.

Unloading Carter, who still has 11 years left on his contract worth a cap hit of $5.272 million- made plenty of sense- allowing the Flyers to free up necessary cap space to fit Bryzgalov in. The ex-Coyote netminder agreed in principle to a nine-year $51 million deal that will pay him $5.67 M on average. A huge risk for the just turned 30-year old who rarely has distinguished himself in the playoffs. The lone exception being when he helped the Ducks advance to the second round in place of J.S. Giguere back in ’06. Since winning half a dozen with a 1.46 GAA, .944 save percentage and three shutouts, he’s gone 6-9 with a 3.33 GAA, .902 save percentage with no shutouts. Hardly what you expect from a guy you’re investing nine years in until the age of 40. Discounting part of Anaheim’s ’07 championship run in which he posted a 3-1 mark with a 2.25 GAA, .925 save percentage over five games before Giguere returned, Brygalov’s gone 3-8 with a 3.77 GAA and .896 save percentage. Of course, you can argue that he faced a tough opponent with the ‘Yotes unable to match the Red Wings’ firepower. After pushing them seven, they were swept this past Spring. The numbers are ugly (4.36 GAA, .876).

So, the Flyers go for a guy who by all accounts is a quality No.1 who’s backstopped Phoenix to consecutive postseasons without any real star power. With apologies to Shane Doan, the ‘Yotes offense makes ours look Godly. At least they have a legit No.1 defenseman in Keith Yandle, who was snubbed for the Norris. Did he even make one of the All-Star Teams during last night’s Awards in Vegas? For Bryzgalov, offense shouldn’t be a problem as long as emerging star Claude Giroux, vet Daniel Briere and ready to breakout Jersey kid James van Riemsdyk produce. The Flyers also still have deadline acquisition Kris Versteeg due $3.08 M through ’11-12 before the CBA expires. It’ll take a balanced effort from the likes of Scott Hartnell, Darroll Powe and newcomers Voracek and Wayne Simmonds, who was added in a stunning blockbuster with the Kings for ex-captain Mike Richards.

Everyone knew Philly needed to shed salary even with the cap increasing to $64 million. Most expected them to move Carter and retain Richards. Instead, both ’03 first round gems are gone, stunning the hockey world. Not surprisingly, Flyer fans are up in arms over trading Richards, who was very popular despite rumors he wasn’t the right leader in the room- probably losing out to vet Chris Pronger in a power struggle. It was easy to see why they got rid of Carter, who was a poor playoff performer- posting only 21 points (13-8-21) with a glaring minus-14 rating over 47 games. Granted. He fought through injuries the past two playoffs that limited his ability. However, unloading Richards was something unexpected, essentially handing the reigns over to Giroux and Van Riemsdyk, who was remarkable despite his club getting destroyed by eventual champ Boston in the Eastern Semis.

The Kings had a need but I’m not even sure they filled it by trading for Richards with top prospect Brayden Schenn, Simmonds and a second rounder moving to the City Of Brotherly Love. In one aspect, it makes sense for LA by giving top pivot Anze Kopitar some help- allowing Jarrett Stoll to move down to the third line where he belongs. They also now are stuck with the 26 year-old two-way center for the next nine years through ’19-20 at an average of $5.75 million. Look. Richards is an outstanding player but it’s hard to see him ever reaching his ’08-09 career marks of 30 goals, 50 assists and 80 points ever again. The way he plays isn’t conducive in a more physical West. His production has gone from 80 to 62 and 65 the past two seasons. He better pan out for a Cup starved franchise or one day, they actually may regret such a move.
How is LA retaining Drew Doughty when they’re locked in on Kopitar, Richards, Justin Williams and Jack Johnson? Jon Quick is signed through ’12-13 and vets Ryan Smyth, Dustin Penner, Stoll, Willie Mitchell all are up next summer. With Stoll assuming the third line role, perhaps that spells the end of ex-Flyer Michal Handzus, who’s been a solid player in Hollywood. It’ll be interesting to see what they do with current RFA Doughty. Plus the development of backup goalie Jonathan Bernier will push Quick.

On paper, the Kings look great. Whether they can mesh remains to be seen. Meanwhile, a new Era is underway in Philadelphia with Giroux, JVR and possibly potential UFA Ville Leino leading the way. What gets lost with the two blockbusters is that one of the club’s most consistent performers, who they stole off waivers from Detroit- may now re-up. The Flyers still have enough space to possibly fit Leino in with Group II’s Voracek, Simmonds, Powe and pest Daniel Carcillo, who could be on the outs. If Holmgren is able to keep Leino, his new look Flyers become a lot more formidable. The wild card is the talented Schenn, who the Kings were never patient with. This is a former fifth overall pick in ’09, who could be close to NHL ready. It’s not like the Flyers have to rush him with a solid nucleus still in place. Especially on the back end led by Pronger and Kimmo Timonen, who along with Matt Carle, Andrej Meszaros, Braydon Coburn and Matt Walker comprise the top six if Sean O’Donnell isn’t back. There’s also Oskars Bartulis, who could see more time.

In taking such calculated risks today, it’s hard to determine if Holmgren finally constructed the Flyers’ third Cup winner since the days of Bobby Clarke, Bernie Parent, Bill Barber and the rest of the Broad Street Bullies. A lot depends on what else they do this July. You know they’re not done. Could he even bring in a center to help offset the losses? Who knows. One thing is clear. The Flyers once again are willing to roll the dice, even if the Bryzgalov contract is equally as bad if not worse than the pair of salaries they dumped. If they don’t win now, they are set up for the future. No small accomplishment.

The real loser might be Columbus, who gave up a lot for an injury prone Carter who must stay healthy to support Rick Nash. If they are to be successful, he better stay healthy and produce. This is a franchise that’s made the playoffs once and hardly have a No.1 goalie or a top flight D. Maybe it will work. However, there are still plenty of questions for the Jackets to answer before we take them seriously.

What a crazy day. It should only get more exciting over the next week.

Each year, All-Star Teams are selected honoring the league’s best at each position. Who tops our list? Let’s find out!

FIRST ALL-STAR TEAM

G Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins (35-11-9, 2.00 GAA, .938 Save Pct, 9 SHO)
D Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins (14-30-44, +33, 88 PIM, 8 PPG, SHG, 2 GW)
D Shea Weber, Nashville Predators (16-32-48, +7, 56 PIM, 6 PPG, SHG, 3 GW)
LW Daniel Sedin, Vancouver Canucks (41-63-104, +30, 32 PIM, 18 PPG, 10 GW)
C Henrik Sedin, Vancouver Canucks (19-75-94, +26, 40 PIM, 8 PPG, 4 GW)
RW Corey Perry, Anaheim Ducks (50-48-98, +9, 104 PIM, 14 PPG, 11 GW, 4 SHG)

SECOND ALL-STAR TEAM

G Pekka Rinne, Nashville Predators (33-22-9, 2.12 GAA, .930 Save Pct, 6 SHO)
D Nick Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings (16-46-62, -2, 20 PIM, 7 PPG, 1 GW)
D Keith Yandle, Phoenix Coyotes (11-48-59, +12, 68 PIM, 3 PPG)
LWAlex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals (32-53-85, +24, 41 PIM, 7 PPG, 11 GW)
C Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning (45-46-91, +3, 74 PIM, 17 PPG, 8 GW)
RW Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay Lightning (31-68-99, Even, 12 PIM, 4 PPG, 7 GW)

THIRD ALL-STAR SELECTIONS

G Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers (36-27-5, 2.28 GAA, .923 Save Pct, 11 SHO)
D Christian Ehrhoff, Vancouver Canucks (14-36-50, +19, 52 PIM, 6 PPG, 3 GW)
D Kris Letang, Pittsburgh Penguins (8-42-50, +15, 101 PIM, 4 PPG, 2 GW)
LW Henrik Zetterberg, Detroit Red Wings (24-56-80, -1, 40 PIM, 10 PPG, 3 GW)
C Jonathan Toews, Chicago Blackhawks (32-44-76, +25, 26 PIM, 10 PPG, SHG, 8 GW)
RW Jarome Iginla, Calgary Flames (43-43-86, Even, 40 PIM, 14 PPG, 6 GW)

Honorable Mentions

G Carey Price, Marc-Andre Fleury, Jon Quick, Ilya Bryzgalov
D Lubomir Visnovsky, Ryan Suter, Alex Goligoski, Tobias Enstrom
D Brent Seabrook, Dan Boyle, Brian Rafalski, Dustin Byfuglien
LW Loui Eriksson, Rick Nash, Ryane Clowe, Milan Lucic
C Claude Giroux, Ryan Kesler, Anze Kopitar, Ryan Getzlaf, Brad Richards
RW Teemu Selanne, Danny Briere, Bobby Ryan, Thomas Vanek