Western Conference Girl Gaggle

Hiatus maybe?

2008-11-24T11:36:00.004-05:00

So, I'm really considering shutting this blog down.

1. I'm the only writer and I was HOPING to get a writer per Western team.

2. I'm not great at keeping blogs updated... except LiveJournals because I've been LJ'ing since like, 2001.

3. My life has basically become AHL hockey.

What!? Three is ridiculous? No. No, trust me, it's not. I live right in downtown Grand Rapids. I Don't have to DRIVE to get to the games. I have FRONT ROW SEATS whenever I go. There's fairly common autograph sessions in which I actually get to be taller than 6'5" players because they're on the bench and we're in the stands with the glass removed. Plus, I get to be an informant on all the prospects before they head up to the big club! I love jumping on a message board or blog and spitting out facts on the players in the AHL and how they could contribute if they were to be called up. It makes me feel big. Not my normal 5'1", 18 year old college student shrimpy size, I feel BIG! I'm sure my not quite so hockey indulgent friends that I go to games with dislike my spitting out of stats and analyses at various points through the game ("Oh! Good, Kindl was in on that goal! And oh it was even strength! Yay he's +1 today!! He needs his +/- to go up!")... but I thoroughly enjoy it. Not to mention pictures! And interaction with the guys in warmup (my friend got a head nod and a face from Aaron Downey last game - it made her day)! Ahh I live for it lately. It's not my fault that when I'm in my hometown I'm a 45 minute drive from the Red Wings, but here at college I'm a 5 minute walk from the Griffins...

But whoa. Got off track here.

Point of it all? I'm thinking WCGG is going to shut down, or at least go on hiatus, and I'll create a blog for my newest complete love. Because I'm quite sure my friends on my personal LiveJournal are getting sick of my discussing prospects in statistics and nicknames, all of which mean nothing to them.

Winter Classic Jerseys

2008-10-25T11:53:00.003-04:00

Tonight's 8:30 game versus Chicago brings the unveiling of the Wings' and Blackhawks' "one time only" jerseys. Or is it previously used jerseys? See, I've heard about five different things - from Detroit media and national media - about what is going to be unveiled tonight during the first intermission. The most common whisper is they'll be completely new jerseys - and the Wings' will supposedly be sporting one giant old English 'D' on the chest. I have yet to hear a new style for the 'Hawks. The other end of rumors suggests the Wings will wear their throwback jerseys that sport a bunch of horizontal stripes and "Detroit" across the chest, where as the Blackhawks will wear a former third jersey, black with their standard logo. Lame?

Either way... this will be the first Wings game I miss this season. Of course, when something with the potential to be cool is unveiled, right? But, I'm not too sad. It's the Griffins' season opener!! Hooray for rink-side seats right behind the attack zone! Section 102, Row A, seats 1, 2, and 3... yeah baby! I could totally end up in pictures from goals. I am so going to be checking every site with AHL photos to see... But I'll probably look crazy if I do. Because I am highly animated in facial expressions... and arm actions...

I might even pull a "Leafs kid" on a Bulldogs player if they make me mad enough...

Okay, really not likely. They'd have to injure one of the Griffins pretty dang bad to bring out that kind of action...

(And just for laughs I should tell you... that Leafs kid does a good job of picking out a player I tend to do the same thing towards. Andreas Lilja and I are not usually buddies... he makes too many turnovers. I'm not a pastry person.)

In which I dote on my "Baby Wings"

2008-10-18T20:47:00.004-04:00

So, my friend was unable to visit Griff's Ice House with me yesterday, so I went alone and FROZE for two hours watching the "baby Wings" practice. What did I get out of it? Well... a lot less than I wanted to because all I could do was focus on my camera and getting as many keepable shots as possible. Unfortunately, tremors from the cold because you're DUMB and in a RUSH so you forget a coat (yeah, I sat for two hours in JUST a long sleeve t-shirt), combined with flashes not allowed for obvious reasons, mean out of 375 shots, only 74 were worth keeping. Ready? Here's some of my favorites, then a link to my set on flickr is below :)

Daniel Larsson

Jakub Kindl

Instructions

Jonathan Ericsson

Logan Pyett

To the entire set!

Rest In Peace: Alexei "Alex" Cherepanov

2008-10-13T16:20:00.007-04:00

Alex Cherepanov, the 17th overall draft pick in the 2007 entry draft, collapsed and died on the bench in an Avangard Omsk KHL game today. Alex's heart gave out while sitting on the bench after a shift (previously believed to have been after colliding with a teammate - Jaromir Jagr - since corrected) and, while revived multiple times (some sources say twice, others up to five times), it would not continue beating. In 2005, Detroit's Jiri Fischer's heart gave out on the bench and that is what the loss of Alex is being compared to. If there had been a defibrillator on the bench, Alex could still be here. This is a terrible loss to the International Hockey community and my heart goes out to everyone who knew Alex. I remember watching the draft and saying the Rangers had a star in him, and now this star will shine in heaven.

Rest in peace, Alex.

(Mini) Road Trip!

2008-10-13T11:06:00.002-04:00

A friend and I are heading a mile out of downtown Grand Rapids to the Griffins' practice on Friday morning, and the only camera policy is no flash. Know what this means? Baby Wings! I get to watch, photograph, and potentially meet some baby Red Wings! I most have my eye on defensive prospects Jakub Kindl and Jonathan Ericsson, but others to snap include Darren Helm (C), Daniel Larsson (G), and Ville Leino (C)... not to mention the Wings' demoted enforcer, Aaron Downey (RW), who's the life of the party.

The receptionist who took my question made it sound like we could meet and get pictures with some of the guys after practice, which means I get to try to contain myself as much as possible to not go all squealing fan-girl on the guys. I mean, I'm a fan who happens to be a girl and some of the guys I am set on following with my camera are attractive... so squealing will at least ensue during the practice. I'm pretty good about being calm in the presence of guys who rock my world. This summer proved that, what with going to the most amazing concert ever and meeting two full bands, while fully under control.

But... this is hockey... so realistically? Realistically, as soon as I'm in my car afterwards, I'm probably going to be screaming with my friend. She might have to drive my car back I might be in such a state ;)

Duke It Out: The 13th Forward or 8th Defenseman?

2008-10-06T10:50:00.011-04:00

With the acquisition of the most coveted July 1 free-agent (Marian Hossa), the Playoff explosion of one of our homegrown forwards (Darren Helm), and a free-agent steal from Finland (Ville Leino)... not to mention the explosiveness of the last overall draft pick in 2002 (Jonathan Ericsson), the long-term signing of a player supposed to be a rental who fit in like a glove (Brad Stuart), two prospects out of options and waiver exemption (Kyle Quincey and Derek Meech), and the bringing back of the immortal Captain America (Chris Chelios)... holy freaking CRAP are the Wings in a log jam!

The Wings were going to carry the roster's weight on the back end - the necessary 12 forwards, an abundant 8 defensemen, and the two goalies - and training camp was suppose to help sort that out, but all it's done is confuse everyone MORE! Who's staying? Who's trade bait? Is anyone going to be able to clear waivers? Egads! It's CRAZY! So in only the second Duke It Out, and probably the most extensive to come ever (I'd die if I had to do another of these suckers), here comes MY opinions on who should stay, go, or drop down for a bit.

We start with Defensemen (and you shall see why I started at the middle of the pack, at the conclusion).

Jonathan Ericsson (#52), Kyle Quincey (#4), Andreas Lilja (#3), Brett Lebda (#22), and Derek Meech (#14)

Fighting for two spots - Chelios guaranteed #7, so fighting for/to keep #5/6/8

Perks: Okay so we have two vets who could be #3/4 anywhere but here (our #5/6 pair) in Lilja and Lebda. Lilja (who for some reason my fingers want to call Jilja, today) was a free-agent signing a few years back who just signed a 2-year extension in the off season, and Lebda was an undrafted college kid who we developed and was supposed to be a Junior Chelios (interestingly enough, he's a Chicago native, too). Welllll, he's not a Cheli clone, but Cheli's work ethic and fitness did rub off on the kid. Lilja is a solid shot blocker and penalty killer. Lebda has blazing speed to get that puck the hell outta there.

Of the kids, Ericsson is looking more and more like a top pair defenseman and he only started on the blue line his draft year. He's developing well in Grand Rapids - rocket of a point shot (101.5mph at the AHL All-Star game), big body to check offenders and block shots, as well as the nasty side if we need a pest knocked out (I previously linked it, but again won't hurt). Quincey has had a nice amount of experience in the playoffs as injuries brought him in for 2007. He's big, solid stay-at-home, and is ready and willing to fight if necessary (he spent his summer training with enforcer Aaron Downey). Meech is an all-around solid player that, right now, could be a #3/4, potentially #2, elsewhere. Yes, I am that high on his talents. He was a forward in juniors so he can double up front, he looks like Lidstrom at the point, and he is certainly not a defensive liability. When the Wings had a rash of injuries mid-season, he stepped up to the top pairing and owned it.

Downfalls: The two oldest guys are about at their potential. It's a bit depressing as Lilja has great size and could do way more damage than he does now. He also has a knack for turnovers that come back to bite us in the ass (see: 2007 WCF vs. Anaheim). Lebda's speed seems to only show towards the opposition's net, which often times leaves his defensive partner hanging out to dry, and he can't get back quick enough to correct any error he might've made - basically, poor judgement choices.

The kids haven't shown constant flaws yet... that I've seen. Ericsson's reason for not making the team is he is waiver exempt and is going to be making the same cash either place, but there isn't really a portion of his game to fault him on. Quincey isn't as physical as he should be even with the fight training, and he doesn't know when to pick the fights he does go into. There are signs that make me think he's going to be just like Lilja - the bad turnover here and there, good at shot blocking but shoddy at getting it out of the zone, unwilling to step up all the time. Meech's downfall... well personally I think he's an excellent, well rounded player. I just think some people picture him as soft (I don't buy it - he's just a generally nice guy who cares about his team's success more than his individual), and North American players aren't allowed to be soft in this era.

Rank: My choices to stay? Might surprise... might not. If you read everything above, it probably won't.

1. Derek Meech - he's skilled offensively and defensively, not to mention can double as a forward if someone goes down

2. Jonathan Ericsson - he won't get it this season, but there's not much to fault him on

3. Andreas Lilja - yes bad turnovers, but the leading shot blocker; I'd like to see him traded though as his salary is more than Quincey...

4. Kyle Quincey - potential to equal Lilja's job, but not quite there yet; if we end up needing the salary gone, Kyle should stay, but if there's a way to fit Andreas in, then do it

5. Brett Lebda - he's the odd-man-out in my book... a small defender with speed as his best and potentially only asset; with two years left on the contract, get what you can for him, he could have a bigger role with someone else

Now onto the forwards!

Darren Helm (#43), Ville Leino (#21), Darren McCarty (#25), and Aaron Downey (#44)

Fighting for one potential spot - dependent upon number of defensemen carried.

Perks: The vets, McCarty and Downey, are past their prime in their once precious lifeline - being an agitator/enforcer. But both provide a tremendous amount of leadership qualities and their own brand of energy. McCarty takes over "coaching" on the bench, giving the young guys pointers, discussing strategy with linemates, and many other little things coaches do. No different in the locker room - when he came in with two games left last season, it wasn't "too late" to take guys under his wing, he immediately started talking to the young guys and giving them tips he can give that come from 3 Cups' experience. One of those young guys? Darren Helm. The same Helm as below that is currently fighting for a roster spot at 21. Downey on the other hand, he's the energy guy. He's constantly cracking jokes in the locker room, causing chaos on the ice. Again, he's a veteran guy, so last season he hung out with the Black Aces during the playoffs and helped them out, even earning a nickname (which I have no idea where it came from) of "Darryl". He helped train with Quincey in the offseason, adding an element to young Q's game, proving his care for the team goes beyond the arena.

The young two, Helm and Leino, are both highly explosive players, but in their own way. Helm is a cruise missile on the ice, breaking from the defensive zone and putting a puck on net probably faster than Brett Lebda. He's a light guy, but he knows how to use what he has to play aggressive. He was supposed to be a replacement for Kris Draper when the Wings drafted Helm, but he looks to be even better than that - many have said his training camp performance, combined with calmness and poise in the Playoffs and a Cup to boot could put him on the second line of an other NHL team. He's much more than his projected "grinder" status! Leino on the other hand, is a perfect representation of what our scouts can find. Even Leino's own Finnish coach thought he wouldn't make it in the NHL, but Babcock is already singing his praises. The 25 year old Finn plays just like Dan Cleary does, and is sticking it out in preseason how Cleary earned his spot - they tried to work him to death but he keeps on getting better under the pressure. The puck, according to Babcock, follows Leino everywhere. And he learned right quick to go straight to the net. Result? Three goals, three assists in eight preseason games... and he was lucky if he had two of our top six dressed at any one night so there was no one making it a piece of cake for him!

Downfalls: Quickly, as this is getting WAY long, and I'm not sure anyone's still following... McCarty doesn't fight as effectively as he used to, and his speed isn't the greatest. If he shoots and isn't just out there making hits and potentially scuffles, he's a much better player. He needs to round out his tools some more. Downey has been taking too many bad penalties and hasn't always fought or fought at the right time. He's also slow of foot and gets lost behind the rush leaving his teammates 2-on-3 or 4 sometimes.

Helm is still young, just 21, and could develop a lot more in the minors. Playing, he is pretty well rounded and doesn't have one major downfall visible. He's quick on skates and with the stick so he's not a defensive liability, plays in corners, and knows where the net is. Leino's downfall is simply that he isn't 100% used to the size of the rink. Another that could be mentioned is his fearlessness in the corners - he just goes right in and often lands on his behind from not watching other larger opponents coming at him. As color commentator Mickey Redmond said one preseason telecast, "He's gonna get himself killed going in like that!". And sure some of those hits probably dizzied him up, but I think he might've gotten the message because I didn't see so many dangerous plays in that last preseason game versus Buffalo.

Rank:

1. Ville Leino - he adapted super quick, he's not giving up under the heavy asking of Coach, and that puck really DOES follow him; great hands, great along the boards, just a tad slow of foot but the hands make up for it

2 Darren McCarty - the veteran presence he provides is impossibly well placed, Babcock was leery last season when he was placed on the team, but Mac won him over with his knowledge of the game and ability to self-coach the kids; lack of fighting isn't an issue, the sight of him coming at you when you mess with one of his teammates is probably going to be enough

3. Aaron Downey - fewer perks than Helm, but he's more liable to drop the gloves than Mac now, and he has proven he can draw other teams' idiots to him instead of the stars of the team

4. Darren Helm - I love the kid, really I do, but he's SO young and could do SO much in the AHL it's ridiculous! We're talking top line night in and out, AHL All-Star, lead league in points. One more year then it will be IMPOSSIBLE to keep him out of the bigs.

So - with the team wanting a 22-man roster versus maximum 23 - do we keep a 13th forward or 8th defenseman? My vote goes to Ville Leino staying on as the #13. Such a workhorse! It's ridiculous. He has the chops, that's for sure. The management might want him to spend some time down to learn a bit more of this style hockey, but would he be okay with that? He has a clause that says he can go back to Finland, and on a one-year deal, we could easily see him elsewhere in the NHL next season if we don't keep him now.

EDIT 9:30am EDT, 10/7: A source claims the Wings are shopping Kyle Quincey around for a mid to low round draft pick, making Lilja and Lebda the #5 and 6 defensemen and Meech the #7 (who can double as a forward should they choose not to keep a #13). Chelios will take #8 when he's back from LTIR. Ericsson will start in Grand Rapids on the top pair. I assume there will be a 13th forward kept as well, salary dependent, but it looks like we were pretty much dead on for the defense portion of our analysis (minus Lebda)!

Russian Crushin'

2008-10-03T14:50:00.000-04:00

I might as well not even try to hide this from you all, as I know it's going to come out through my posts sooner or later. Welllll... I have a serious thing for Russian hockey players. Serious. I'm drawn to their style of play, as well as their somewhat goofy, "Eurasian" looks.

So! For my own sanity, we're going to rank MY top five Russian cuties, but please keep in mind, they are not ranked on looks alone... In fact mostly on how much I love them as players before looks, but looks do draw my eye? Well, I am a girl, so yes it does show it's face occasionally. Duh.

#5 Nikolai Zherdev

Definitely no secret that I think the guy is a whiz. I mean, he even ~~has~~ had his own tag on here! But I just got rid of it today because, alas, Zherdev landed in the East. But following the Wings obsessively, I saw a lot of the Jackets and Zherdev was always the one I was following. Not Nash, not Klesla.... Zherdev. I'm used to watching Datsyukian dekes and pickpockets all game long, so when this little Russian wearing #13 on a team with a long shot to make the playoffs can pickpocket Datsyuk (even if Dats steals it right back)... hell yeah I'm gonna watch! I know, I know, word is he doesn't have a good work ethic. But that was his raw talent shining through a veil of Hitchcockian smother. I honestly think - with no basis but my watching Wings/Jax games - that he was unhappy and unable to do what he was good at under pressure. I've already heard great things of his work ethic and skill come out of New York. Maybe that move was what he needed.

#4 Evgeni Malkin

Clearly, Malkin has skill. Clearly, he is on a really good team. Clearly, he's destined for a great career. But why do I love him? He can hold his own in stupid hockey politics, he knows what he wants, and of course, he has MAD skills. I can't write about him winning a cup in his second full season or going first overall his draft year, and I can't change his name to Sidney Crosby so Pens fans might actually see the real star of the team (I swear.), but I KNOW he's the best so that's all that matters. He's MY #4 in a list I couldn't make up my mind for order of 2-4! So basically they're interchangeable.

#3 Vyacheslav "Slava" Kozlov

It was so, so hard to put Kozzie at #3 here. He only got bumped from #2 because his fan favor and talent has dropped off some with age... and location. He's in Atlanta now (dang, ANOTHER Easterner!) but I ADORED Kozzie when he was with Detroit! I have a card from his second or third season hanging on my wall and it brings back amazing memories. He's one of the guys that I just can't pinpoint WHY I love him, but I do without a doubt in my mind. He wore #13 with Detroit, and now another favorite Russian of mine wears the same with the team... perhaps it's a good luck charm :)

#2 Alexander Ovechkin

This one is a no brainer. He's talented, has a great personality, and would be so damn cute if he would just take care of that unibrow! He and Mike Green are the reasons I love Washington so much (they're my Eastern team I root for). But really... great personality! Favorite example, besides the NHL commercial with him beating the vending machine to get chips? This:

Alex totally calls Mike Milbury a cat... and he's the dog that's going to rip the cat to bits! I about died laughing when I saw this during the Playoffs. Alex... you're the greatest :)

#1 Pavel Datsyuk

Pav is, without question, my favorite Russian. The Datsyukian Dekes are eyegasmic, his anger over teammates making noise to get the puck is adorable, and his humor, though hidden for a long time and only now starting to emerge, is crazy amazing!

Ready for a list of things to watch on my boy?

Datsyuk's humor showing through at the NHL Awards Ceremony here.

Datsyuk's personality shining during an interrupted interview here.

Proving he isn't a wimpy, unphysical star here... and here.

Some of his greatest clips in a wonderful compilation here (check out that stick handling!).

That last one in particular. If you can watch that and NOT smile or be awed... you have NO heart and have NO idea what amazing hockey is. Really. 3:18 in? Crazy. Goalies just have to wet themselves when he breaks away without an opposing defender in front of him.

Bonus!! Igor Larionov

"The Professor" had to be included in this list, but I didn't kick anyone out of the ranking because I wanted to keep that current. Larionov was a key player in Russians coming to the NHL when their country didn't want them to leave, and he also beat down the negativity here when the Russians finally made it over here - he helped show that Russians could adapt to the North American game... and win (see: Wings back-to-back '96-'97/'97-'98). He was a member of the Russian Five, and after the Five was no longer, still played a key role with the team - he helped Pavel Datsyuk find his niche in Detroit and develop into the player he is today. The Professor was accepted into this year's Hall of Fame class, and it is WELL deserved.

Today, outside of hockey, Igor has his own wine company in California, IL Triple Overtime, his eldest daughter Alyonka was seen on Ovechkin's arm at the NHL Awards Ceremony, and both Alyonka and her younger sister Diana are pursuing singing careers. He's still prominent in hockey, but The Professor has settled into another life too, it would seem.

So there you have it! My list of beloved Russians. Unfortunately, I don't know that this... rank by country of birth... will show up again. I could certainly do Swedes and Canadians if I chose, but then the other prominent countries with players I know little about would be sad. So... Sweden, Canada, and maybe the Czech Republic could show up at some point, but I'm going to have to be really bored...

Sorry again.

2008-10-03T09:57:00.003-04:00

I can't find a picture to go with the.. incident... mentioned below, but another sweet incident having to do with Flower should suffice, no? :)

Just letting you know I hope to find the time TONIGHT to finish two posts I've had started for aaaages. I worked on homework for 5 hours straight yesterday to free up my weekend (it starts on Fridays :) for hockey watching, writing, and reading. How many 18 year old college GIRLS do that?? Right, only the devoted/cool ones!

But I have to say, this made me chuckle on a morning that I can hardly function (see: "working till 2:30am on homework"):

"The one where I sat on it?" he said. "Oh yeah. (Expletive) yeah. That stunk."

That would be "Flower," Mr. Marc-Andre Fleury, on what turned out to be the GWG in Game 6... where Zetterberg's shot skittered to a stop behind him, he sat down, and effectively scored the goal with his ass.

Glad to see you're not still sore, Marc ;)

But really. I love the kid. He's probably my second favorite goalie in the East (which I hardly follow - my #1 is a native Michigander, Ryan Miller, so I don't put much thought into these things) and I'm almost sad to see him, of all the Flightless Birds, disappointed. But cheer up, Flower! You'll get back there again within a few years. And yeah, so long as we take a few key losses to our blueline corps (ie. Nicklas Lidstrom retires and none of our already flashy prospects *coughJonathanEricssoncough* prove to be what they're hinting at right now) and our Top Six fizzle out...

Oh dang. Out comes the seemingly arrogant Wings fan in me. But I promise! It's just playful ribbing. Let's revise:

No team, not even Detroit who's bordering a "dynasty," can hold together it's key cogs forever. You'll get there again a few times in your career, Flower, and I'm sure you'll get at least one cup. I mean, Gary Bettman is practically in love with you guys, so he'd die of a broken heart if he didn't get to hand the cup to Sid the Kid before his reign as Commissioner is over!

Wait... no bitterness... revise the last part...

Nope. Just delete it.

What I'm TRYING to say:

No team, not even Detroit who's bordering on a "dynasty," can hold together it's key cogs forever - there's movement, retiring, finding new guys that fit in perfect... and then adjustment periods. You'll get there again a number of times in your career, Flower, and I'm sure you'll get at least one cup, but two or three could be easily obtainable too. You're young and just getting better. Cheer up :)

Blegh. I totally just coddled an Eastern Conference goalie... I need to coddle Ozzie's ego at some point tonight to counter-balance this. Just add it on the list of things to do :P

We're... back?

2008-09-21T00:49:00.005-04:00

Okay so I have NO idea where that streak of insane inactivity came from, but I'm going to try to be back! College kinda sucks the life out of me and my desire to post, to be honest. I think my Color teacher is trying to kill us with work. The joys of being an art student?

Anyway! Here we go. Updates, bullet style!

Detroit Red Wings

Signed Darren McCarty to a two-way contract on Thursday before heading to training camp. Will compete with Aaron Downey, Ville Leino, and Darren Helm for the 13th forward spot.
Marian Hossa said he had a tight back the morning of physicals at training camp. Cue massive, wide-spread Wings blogger panic! Hossa said he was fine to skate, but the golf outing had to be missed. But... there's a picture of him golfing this weekend? I smell something fishy and he's a player for my team! As long as he skates, I guess I can let everything else be.
In other Hossa news, he has already moved out of his BFF Tomas Kopecky's house! Yes, he already has his own apartment! Good sign? Perhaps! Already comfortable with his surroundings. One can hope...
The Wings' Traverse City Prospect Tournament shone a light on a few young prospects - Thomas McCollum, the 2008 1st round pick for Detroit, showed up big with a 1-0-1 record; Zack Torquato, Cory Emmerton, and Justin Abdelkader all made huge efforts recording the most points of the Wings forwards; Jakub Kindl is showing he's made advancements over the summer and looks to put last season's dismal first AHL season behind him, he was named an alternate captain (with Emmerton and Abdelkader) and found himself on the top pairing, leading in plus-minus with a +3.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Top prospect and 2008 first-round draft pick, Nikita Filatov, arrived in Columbus on the 10th, but he was sidelined and kept out of the Traverse City Prospect Tournament because of a hairline fracture. The injury occurred while practicing in Russia and has already begun to heal; Filatov will be ready for the start of the season.
The team could be looking hard at Mathieu Schneider of the Anaheim Ducks. Schneids, a former Red Wing, left for California last summer, and has been waived to make room for the signing of Teemu Selanne. The big defenseman could be picked up on re-entry waivers for half of his salary, or $2.875 million, and the Jax are rumored to be interested.
I don't have any other facts, but I would like to say Rick Nash is going to make a great captain. I only wish that Hitchcock would've given Nikolai Zherdev more of a shot on Nash's line/Zherdev would've tried harder in Columbus. I still think there was an extreme potential for explosive goals from those two working together...

So, I've spent my time running around my new home - Grand Rapids - and going to class. That's about all I've done since last post, move in and go to school. I did manage to get my partial season tickets to the Wings' AHL affiliate all setup - 11 brilliant Griffins games, right against the glass, watching the "baby Wings" flex their growing knowledge-muscles.

Front row. (Partial) season ticket holder perks. BABY WINGS. Words cannot describe how thoroughly stoked I am for this! I'll be seeing these NHL teams' affiliates if I get to every game, but right now, I'm hoping to get to Florida (yes) to take in a Red Wings/Panthers game with a friend who has since moved down there so I miiiight not get to see all. I would miss the game versus the Hartford Wolf Pack.

Baby Canadiens (Hamilton)
Baby Predators (Milwaukee)
Baby Avalanche (Lake Erie)
Baby Rangers (Hartford)
Baby Penguins (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton)
Baby Leafs (Toronto)
Baby Canucks (Manitoba)
Baby Flames (Quad City)
Baby Panthers (Rochester)
Baby Coyotes (San Antonio)
Baby Blues (Peoria)

Zäta and Emma, sitting in a tree...

2008-08-01T09:42:00.008-04:00

Puckbunnies, this one might be hard for you.

Fangirls, it's okay to show a bit of emotion now, really.

I just found out that one of the Wings' Super Swedes is finally (it was inevitable) engaged to his actress/model/singer/television host girlfriend of two years! Yep, cross him off the market, the hottie Henrik "Hank" Zetterberg and the beautiful Emma Andersson made it official.

I think he was planning it about the time he won something shiny and silver with a bowl on top... ;)

The duo are something of superstars in Sweden (think Posh and Beckham), but here in the States, they can live a relatively normal life. Yes, she's living here - moved in last year - and they love it.

If you want a bit more information, here are some Google-translated Swedish articles for you:

Expressen.se

Expressen.se (2)

Ohh I love to see my Wings happy! That makes two that I know of who are engaged, the other being Valtteri Filppula, though I know even less of his engagement. I did hear that the lucky lady is a Michigander, though I have no evidence to back that up...

Arby Avoidance

2008-07-30T12:12:00.005-04:00

As only one Eastern Conference player has yet to have either gone to arbitration or decided to take a deal before his date, let's take a look at us Western Conferencers so we know the low down on them.

And so you don't get to pin the tail on favoritism, we're going alphabetically. By team.

Marek Svatos - Colorado

On July 25, signed a two-year, $4.1 million contract. Contract negotiated before hearing.

Svatos has 26 goals last season, even with missing the last 16 games due to a knee injury. The contract is backloaded which says the Avalanche believe him to be a nice future cog for their cause.

Valtteri Filppula - Detroit

On July 30, signed a five-year, $15 million contract. Contract negotiated before hearing.

Just announced today, and the final Western piece to the puzzle, Filppula earned himself a nice contract no matter which way you look at it - if he continues to build at a slower pace, we're not overpaying, but if he explodes much like Franzen and Kronwall did with their longer term RFA signings, the $3 million in 2012-2013 will look like a steal. Great building by GM Ken Holland.

Pierre-Marc Bouchard - Minnesota

On July 26, signed a five-year, $20.4 million contract. Contract negotiated before hearing.

After setting a franchise record for assists in a season at 50, there was probably little doubt that Bouchard would be sticking in the Minn. He gets an extra bonus for his flash - a no trade clause for the first two years of his contract. Niiice.

Stephane Veilleux - Minnesota

On July 19, signed a one-year, $862,500 contract. Contract negotiated before hearing.

Veilleux had a career year in 2007-08 with 11 goals and 7 assists through 77 games. He's a key peg in their checking line, and has proven himself over his five years in uniform with the Wild.

Ville Koistinen - Nashville

On July 30, awarded a one-year, $700,000 contract through arbitration.

The contract has not been finalized yet, but Koistinen was awarded his dues through a meeting with an independent arbitrator on the 28th.

Jay McClement - St. Louis

On July 14, signed a one-year, $950,000 contract. Contract negotiated before hearing.

The center had 9 goals and 13 assists last season, known more for his defense than his offense.

...In With The New

2008-07-21T15:57:00.005-04:00

Well, the Wings have filled the Assistant Coach position, and it was a name we Wings fans actually expected. Taking the offensive duties this season will be former Wing Brad McCrimmon. He played defense with the Wings for three seasons (90-91 to 92-93) and was recently the Assistant Coach for the Atlanta Thrashers (yay for stealing from the East! apparently that's our latest habit). McCrimmon is also a Saskatchewan man like our Coach Babcock! Hooray for great coaches from the Sask!

We now need to fill the Video Coach position, and I know who I've got MY fingers crossed for... one Bruise Brother that always made me squee with joy because of his fists of fury, and he currently has my heart through my stomach because of his Fenton, MI restaurant, 'The Penalty Box'. Yep, Mr. Joey Kocur, the man with the one-punch knockout. He was our VC for some time before Babcock took over and replaced the entire support staff with his own, but with Woodie (Jay Woodcroft) bookin' it for the San with McLennan, I'm thinking a favorite son who knows the job would be a nice addition. Heck, maybe he could give Tomas Kopecky and Jonathan Ericsson, some young guys who have the build to do some damage, a few pointers on holding their own? Dreaming :)

Also in Wings news...

Both Ericsson and Jimmy Howard have signed 3-year deals. This tells me a few things - one, that Howard likely isn't going to steal the #2 away from Ty Conklin this season but will have two full NHL years, and two, that Ericsson might get NHL time, but not enough to keep him a RFA, so we wanted to lock him up longer term.

Free-Agency? What? OH THAT.

2008-07-02T14:14:00.007-04:00

Marian Hossa... the newest Red Wing?!

I... I have no idea how I can form words right now. Really. No idea. So excuse me if this entry is a) long and b) jumbled.

But I will cover both Wings and Columbus signings and trades (so far) so it's got a shot to be REALLY LONG. Heh...

Detroit Red Wings (aka good chance to repeat)

11:58 am on July 1 - Resigned Brad Stuart to a 4-year deal worth $3.75 million per season. Brad got his no-trade clause for the first two seasons, with a limited-trade clause for the last two. The two compromised to get the deal done and both have to be happy. Stuart was looking for his NTC, 4-5 years, and in the range of $4 million a season. Holland (Wings GM) was looking for $3-3.5 million multi-year without a NTC. I think Stuart got the better end of the deal, but the Wings aren't complaining either! It's been said already that the Wings could have the best Top-4 blueline next season.

3:07 pm on July 1 - Signed UFA goaltender Ty Conklin to a one-year, $750,000 contract. Conklin was a #3 backup for the Penguins last season and beat out their #2 to start 31 games while Marc-Andre Fleury was out with a high-ankle sprain. He had an amazing record of 18-8-5 and a save percentage of .923 and 2.51 goals-against average. His best run last season was a series of 11 games - he won nine straight, lost one in overtime, and won the following game, providing an amazing 21 points for the team. With RFA Jimmy Howard having the option to be sent to the minors, Conklin will probably stick as the Red Wings' #2, providing more motivation for Howard to solidify his game in his AHL time.

12:35 pm July 2 - Highly sought after UFA forward Marian Hossa to a one-year, $7.4 million contract. At that, it's considered a steal. Yes, at $7.4 million! He was getting offers of $9 million (and up?) and many multiple years, but obviously he feels his best shot is with Detroit. Well... do you blame him? Pittsburgh's second best player in the Cup Finals (because Malkin didn't show up until Game 4) added to the Cup Champion roster that is basically unchanged? Haha yeah. Wow. Just, WOW.

Don't look for the Wings to make any other big splashes (unless, of course, Mats Sundin wants to sign with us for a measly $3 million). We're done except for some RFA signings! :)

Columbus Blue Jackets

Sometime before free agency July 1 - Traded first-round pick Gilbert Brule to Edmonton for Raffi Torres. Brule was the first first-round pick ever traded by the Jackets, but Torres should add some great experience to the lineup.

6:01 pm July 1 - Signed UFA defenseman Mike Commodore to a 5-year, $18.75 million contract. Commodore is a big defenseman and will add some size.

The other big/semi-big name UFAs?

Brian Campbell signed an 8-year, $56.8 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Brian Rolston signed a 4-year, $20.25 million contract with the New Jersey Devils, the team that drafted him.
Wade Redden signed a 6-year, $39 million contract with the New York Rangers.
Mats Sundin has not signed, and told the media today that while he appreciated all the offers, he probably would not make a decision - on playing, and if so, where - for a few days/weeks.
Jaromir Jagr has reportedly been made an offer by the Penguins, though has not signed with anyone at this time.
Brendan Shanahan is rumored to have had an offer from the Devils; no signing yet.
Sean Avery (super-pest extraordinaire) signed a 4-year, $15.5 million contract with the Dallas Stars.

I'm still dumbfounded about Hossa. Someone's going to have to smack me in a bit... make sure the jaw can still close...

Less than 24 hours now...

2008-06-30T17:37:00.005-04:00

Well, this is going to be short again. This time though, because I'm depressed on the topic.

No contract could be polished off before 11 am between Brad Stuart and the Red Wings. GM Ken Holland will continue talking to Stuart's agent through today, but it's highly likely he will be looking for his 5-year contract out on the West Coast with speculations being a re-signing with the LA Kings (though I have heard from others that the Sharks would fit his needs if they can't resign Campbell).

Other talk from this anonymous poster says the Wings will go after Andrew Raycroft as a backup goaltender and Jagr (as danced around last post) is still highly likely to take place. As for me? I'm thoroughly disappointed. Stuart grew on me like mold grows on bread left out too long. I love the guy! He fits here perfectly! More so than anywhere else he's ever played, I wish he could see that. Yes, it took a bit to get over the fact his hit in 06-07 is the reason Zetterberg's back will never be 100% again, but once that happened, I couldn't picture him in another jersey. I'm playing Taps in my head right now. Have fun, Cali boy, but I won't be wishing you luck in your endeavors in a jersey other than the Winged Wheel...

*Crosses her fingers for the remaining few hours leading up till free-agency*

C'mon Kenny... get it done!

EDIT (6:57pm EDT): Andreas Lilja (D) was just signed to a 2-year deal at $1.2 million per season. This just about confirms my worst fears that there is no salvaging the Stumeister. I'd rather lose BOTH than just lose Stuart to be honest. There is little I do I hide my strong dislike for Lilja. The only things I like about him are his last name and he wears one of my two favorite numbers (#3)!

Signings and Trades - Two Days Prior

2008-06-29T23:31:00.006-04:00

Todd Bertuzzi

Okay. Really really quick listing of Western Conference trades and signings because I have really-big-possibly-terribly-shocking-news related to my Wings I have to elaborate on last... and I have a tendency to get extremely long winded (see last entry for reference).

Minnesota Wild trade rights of Brian Rolston (RW) to Tampa Bay Lightning
Edmonton Oilers trade Jarret Stoll (C), Matt Greene (D) to Los Angeles Kings for Lubomir Visnovski (D)
Colorado Avalanche resign John-Michael Liles (D) and Adam Foote (D) for $16 million/4 years and $6 million/2 years respectively
Anaheim Ducks bought out Todd Bertuzzi (RW), making him an UFA - Big Bert will get $2.6 of the $4 million he was to receive of the final year of his contract
Rumor has it Anaheim is trying to move Mathieu Schneider (D) to clear cap space - both Schneider and Bertuzzi were free-agent signings prior to 2007-08 and, wouldn't you know, they came from the Wings... hey boys? You missed the Cup two years now
Calgary Flames bought out Markus Nilson (LW), Anders Eriksson (D), Rhett Warrener (D)

And now for the "really-big-possibly-terribly-shocking-news" related to my Detroit Red Wings...

Brad Stuart takes out Peter Forsberg... victory in the eyes of a Wings fan!

Rumor has it, from the Detroit News' forums (take it as you will), that Brad Stuart and the Wings are close to signing either a 4- or 5-year contract with final digits still to be finished and the placement of a NTC to be considered. Sounds as though Stuart wants 5-years, average of $3.6 Million a year (3.0, 3.5, 3.75, 4.25), and a no-trade clause. The Wings have offered 4-years, no NTC. There was MANY rumors swirling around the web about Stuart's wife needing to live in California for custody of her daughter from a previous marriage, but the anonymous tipster says that is not the case. Also, the decision should be made and announced tomorrow before 11:00 am (EDT is my guess, but I will wait until 11:00 am PDT before breaking down in terrible sobs because that more than likely means Lilja for another 2-3 years... which in turn might make me turn my back on the Wings brass because I HATE that man...).

So yeah! Another little ditty of speculation was also in that post, dealing with the Wings and a certain money-hungry EC Czech star with attitude... but we won't delve into that as I don't want it to happen.

Approaching July 1

2008-06-26T17:44:00.000-04:00

We're four days away from Free Agency and I figure it's a good time to touch on UFAs, RFAs, and players who have already been told or informed their clubs that they'd be testing the market. Tonight it's going to be strictly Red Wings, but I might cover my mini-base of the Jackets later on... because there's actually quite a bit of rumblings from Columbus coming through my news feed.

Aaaand... we're off!

Restricted Free Agents

Valtteri Filppula (C) - Been said that our little Flip has denied at least one, possibly two, qualifying offers from Ken Holland and the crew. He's quite the dandy center, the first Finn we've "raised", and just helped recruit a countryman to our overly Swedish team. The more Finns the better! Hey, one can hope, because clearly Flip has won over many Wings fans. Unfortunately, it looks as though he won't be signing before July 1, and he could draw a fairly large offer sheet, though Holland has already said he will match anything he gets offered (unless, of course, it's like... league max or something).

Kyle Quincey (D, pictured at right) - Quincey has been given a qualifying offer, though no word on accepting it. He has spent the past few seasons in the AHL, and with the Wings depth on the blue line, he might have a hard time getting out of the minors. If Quincey is not signed before July 1, and he received an offer sheet from another team, my gut tells me that the Wings will let him walk. We are stacked deep on defense and Q might just have the short straw at this time.

Jonathan Ericsson (D) - Also offered a qualifying offer, Ericsson has a special situation. If he is not signed to a multi-year contract, based on his slow development (he was chosen last overall in 2002, it's quite understandable), Ericsson can become a Group VI Unrestricted Free Agent following the 2008-09 season. He will have had the required three years pro and less than 80 NHL games which gives him the freedom to find somewhere he can immediately be effective.

Jimmy Howard (G) - Our last RFA to consider, Howard was long considered the next gem in net. Unfortunately, his inconsistency has kept him in the AHL and there's talk he still might not be ready for even backup to Chris Osgood next season. As with the other RFAs, Howard has been offered a contract, though terms have not been released and there is no word as to if he has signed or not.

Unrestricted Free Agents

Brad Stuart (D) - The big second pair defenseman we desperately needed, Holland is working with his agent from what I've heard. Our #3, Kronwall, makes an even $3 million a season and Stuart made $3.5 last. Ideally, we would drop Stuart's salary to even with Kronwall, but on the open market he could draw $4, $4.5, or even more. With this, I'm sure Holland would consider resigning Stuart for the $3.5 he made last season, and quite frankly, I'd be furious if he didn't offer that and maybe a hair tops. Yes, Kronwall is considered our #3, but Stuart is in prime and Kronwall is still developing. For the sake of argument, I consider the hard-hitting duo interchangeable. Unfortunately, Stuart also has just revealed a shoulder injury. It could play in our favor depending on how questionable it is and if we can get him to sign for less because of it, but it could also be a problem next season so we would be back to relying on .

Andreas Lilja (D) - Our #5/6 defenseman who filled in as a #4 before Stuart came along, I have NEVER been a fan of him. He's basically my whipping boy. If something goes wrong anywhere on ice when Lilja is on, I can usually find some way to trace it back to him. And his nickname is Lily. Lily?! Ick. Not to mention the whole sex scandal thing when he was in Florida. That plus some really creepy smiles of his plus his frequent on-ice brain lapses... equal nightmares galore. Holland offered him a two-year contract and it looks as though he's going to accept. Me? I'm screaming 'shoot me!' repeatedly. How are our prospects supposed to move up if we keep resigning these guys that don't do anything special!? I'd rather our #6 spot be reserved for developing a player, not giving a Swede a job for the sake of his friendship with his countrymen. Because I forget who it is, but one of our other Swedes lives right across from Lilja and they carpool everyday... and I'm afraid Kenny's losing sight of the prospects because of this little buddy-buddy fest. *Gag*

Chris Chelios (D) - Holland made it known quickly after the Cup was won that Chelios was welcome back if he wanted to return. He did not play a game in the finals, missed some regular season games with injury, and was a healthy scratch a bit more than he was used to, but Chelios knows his position with the team. The veteran leadership he provides for our young blueliners is amazing. Holland is in talks with Chelios.

Aaron Downey (RW, pictured at right vs. Ian Laperriere) - I LOVE this guy. He fits like a glove in the Motor City, a blue collar city, and more than proved his worth throughout the season both on ice and in the locker room. You might hate him if you're on the opposing team because he stirs up drama (had two fines due to his antics this season) but I would hurt you if you didn't appreciate him after seeing what he's really like. What a character! He had a segment on WingsTV briefly video blogging the hours leading up to a game, he's done a very down to earth edition of WingsTV's 2:00 For the FUN of It (highlights a player and his life outside of hockey), did a hilarious interview of the Black Aces during the Dallas series, provides comedic interviews whenever asked - playing or not, and takes his role as a regular working guy quite seriously. At the Mellon one game? There was a forklift in the way of the Wings pre-game soccer kick around. Picture this. Here comes Downey, strutting like the ham he is, "Lookout, working man coming through!" climbs up, moves it, and continues on as the crazy-fun "Uncle Darryl" (don't ask, I don't know!) to the Aces. Really. But as far as his status, Holland said he would offer him a contract pending if either he or our other toughie, McCarty, would agree to a two-way contract. Speaking of...

Darren McCarty (RW) - "Mac" has long been a crowd favorite (see: the Brawl in Hockeytown). Even with his addictions and gambling problems, and buying out his contract in 2005, the Wings faithful missed the big guy. With two seasons in Calgary, then no contract at the start of 2007, most people thought his hockey career was done and over. But longtime friend Kris Draper gave Mac the new start he needed. When Mac was finally sober, Drapes pointed Mac to CORE fitness, a program that Draper co-owns. When physically in shape, Drapes helped Mac to the Flint Generals of the IHL (another Draper co-owned deal) and when he was improving there, Mac made it to the AHL affiliate of the Wings and Holland promised to watch Mac's progress. Well, a hat trick, a few fights, and a number of very good games, along with the veteran leadership that the Wings brass was hoping would return to shine, found Mac with a pro-rated contract for league minimum and he was back in the Winged Wheel. It was a long, hard road, but he stuck it out and his teammates supported him 100% and here he is now, with Cup ring #4, all from the time with his adoptive hometown team. Mac has been offered a contract and will be with the Wings next season, although final details have to be worked out such as two-way or one-way.

Dallas Drake (RW) - The gruff warrior was an offseason acquisition after his former team (St. Louis) bought him out. I'll admit I was seriously against the signing, and his regular season performance did nothing to convince me of Holland's move's value, but the playoffs told a different story. The 1989 Wings' draft pick (he was traded to Winnipeg after a season and a half) exploded in the offseason with a physical streak probably only beaten by Kronwall and the unlikely Datsyuk. He was a force to be reckoned with and brought a ton of energy to the team. A genuine nice guy off-ice, he really won me over the last few regular season games and the playoff games. He's 39 and contemplating retirement. Holland has asked Drake to let him know prior to July 1 what his intentions are, and while all signs point to a cheerful retirement (Dally finally got his Cup!), I don't think I'd be upset if he took a roster spot as a #13 or 14 player.

Mark Hartigan (C) - He didn't play much with the big club, but Hartigan did hold his own when asked to fill in. My only concern, if he does resign with the Wings, is taking the place of a top forward prospect such as Helm. There has been no word on a contract offered.

Dominik Hasek (G) - Good old Dom retired. At 43, this was his second retirement, but this will be his last. He said his drive to play just isn't the same as it's always been, and he wants to work on his company, Dominator Clothing. I'm sure we'll still see Dom around the D though as his son is attending Michigan State, and while visiting him, I'm sure he'll stop in to see his former teammates. Good luck, Dom! Thanks for the heart attacks and crazy antics, they will be missed!

The Outside Agents

Mats Sundin (C) - Not that the oldest team needs to get any older, but Sundin could provide some great leadership and we could offer him one last big bang at the Cup. Montréal and New York (Rangers) are considered the two front runners for the vet's services, but the Swede would be at home in nearby Novi (lovingly named Little Sweden by our resident Swedes and the Wings staff) and would be with the reigning Cup champions who happen to be the last team that repeated. Yes we can do it again!

Markus Naslund (LW) - The current Canuck isn't talked about as much as his Swedish Leafs counterpart, but we think Nazzy would fit in just fine. He's in about the same situation as well! So, to recap... Little Sweden, proven repeats, and oh yes, we're well under the salary cap (about $8 million estimated after we resign Stuart *crosses fingers*!)

Darcy Tucker (LW) - This one isn't being talked about as much by the media as it is on Wings message boards. True he could provide experience we will lose if Drake retires, but we drafted Drake and thus will just about always have a soft spot for him (even if he captained the Blues and provided years of angst for us). Tucker though? Just a punk. I will so pass on signing this guy! Let Downey and Mac alternate the tough guy role for us, I don't need no Tucker.

Ray Emery (G, pictured at right) - This one I want to die over. I almost had a panic attack when it was suggested the Wings take him on as a backup and give him a shot to turn around his career. What?! Bring in a primadonna who has actually had a fight with a teammate!? NO THANKS. But then I got to thinking. And yes, I really hate it when I think sometimes, particularly when it comes to this. I though, what if we really COULD change his career? He's only 25, and to be honest, I'm starting to doubt if Howard can take the #1 position within the next three years (when Osgood will probably retire). Having another young guy with pounds of talent - even if he might have lost sight of it briefly - could be for the better. We helped Cleary turn his image around, gave him a new lease on life, and he found a hopefully forever home here as well. Even if we don't keep Emery, even one or two good seasons might be helpful.

Marian Hossa (RW) - This is just a joke to me. I was following a live chat on Puck Daddy yesterday and during a hot seat session, Spector said Detroit would be Hossa's destination. Sorry, what? I really don't like that overpaid, underproducing, overhyped little Penguin right now, and haven't seen anything to change my mind.

So. Me? I have a fair bit of waiting to do before I find out next season's lineup. With all of our RFAs holding out for some reason (who put what in their water bottles?) and a key UFA that is going to wait it out... it's going to be a bit nerve wracking!

Congrats 2008 HHOF Inductees!

2008-06-17T15:37:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to this year's Hockey Hall of Fame inductees! Igor Larionov and Glenn Anderson were the only two players tapped to head to the Hall for the 2008 Class, and although I don't know much about Anderson, I do know that Larionov was jipped in 2007 when he was passed over. This is a much, much deserved honor for The Professor!

Igor Larionov - "The Professor"

Called the "Russian Wayne Gretzky", instrumental in bringing Russian players into the NHL, a member of the famed Russian Five, and winner of three Stanley Cups (1997, 1998, 2002) with the Detroit Red Wings.

Glenn Anderson

Your typical 1980's power forward who drove hard to the net, won five Cups with Edmonton and one with the Rangers, and is fifth all-time for playoff game winning goals with 17.

Trade Talk: "Anybody."

2008-06-15T10:39:00.005-04:00

This just landed in my NewsFire feed and I couldn't help but make note.

He could be right. Someday, Nikolai Zherdev might one of the NHL's biggest stars. He can be delightfully entertaining, working the puck as if it were hooked to his stick by an invisible string, sometimes making opposing defensemen look clumsy and lost.
But trading Zherdev -- or anybody -- on the Blue Jackets roster is an option for general manager Scott Howson as he prepares to shape the roster into one that can not only reach the Stanley Cup playoffs but advance once it's there.
A week that might be the most important in the franchise's young history begins today. Trade discussions leading up to and during next weekend's NHL draft will open an array of possibilities, and it's time for the Blue Jackets to be bold and aggressive.
The conservative, maybe-our-young-guys-will-all-mature approach can be filed in the same trash can as the finish-last-and-stockpile-some-future-stars method. It's time to act. Howson should be prepared to move anybody and everybody to get the franchise on track.
And yes, I said "anybody." Pascal Leclaire … Rostislav Klesla … Jason Chimera … Fredrik Modin … even, gulp, Rick Nash. That doesn't mean the Jackets should trade any of these guys. It just means they should be ready to consider anything that will let the team take the next big step.

Whoa there. Anybody? I think "anybody" should have an "almost" added on front. I mean, really now, if you're going to put an "O.B.O." tag on every player, who are you going to consider when you trade for linemates? I know for a while now there've been trades and even moves within the team to get someone working with Rick Nash. You want a face for your franchise, you've done a damn good job of keeping Nasher there, and now you aren't sure about him? Honestly, I think you're just having a bit of a blind streak - you've tried everyone BUT the guy I'm all but certain would make Nash even more of a monster. Seriously. The guy first mentiond up there - Nikolai Zherdev! I've said it before, and I will continue saying it until you prove me wrong, Zherdev will be just like Datsyuk if you let him have a guy who he can pass to. He has the same physical and mental build of Datsyuk, so he won't be the 50 goal scorer you want, but he quite possibly could lead the team in points with the assists he gives you and the occasional jaw-dropping goal he contributes.

But above all else? Take Leclaire off your available list. Until you get your skaters solidified, you need a goaltender who can backstop you. If you can trade a few wingers for other goalies if unsure of Leclaire's raw skills, then by all means try, but don't throw away a shutout machine without a backup option! It's just setting yourself up for failure...

Duke It Out: The Battle of the Blueliners

2008-06-12T01:36:00.002-04:00

Even after winning the Stanley Cup, the Wings aren't sitting 100% pretty for next season. The biggest ripple in an otherwise smooth sea? The #4 defenseman. The obvious choice here is to get Brad Stuart to drop a cool million from what he could bring on the open market, but some Wings bloggers are claiming not only that it won't happen, but we already have a solid #4 waiting in the wings ('scuzi for the pun). Yep, the big rookie I highlighted in my last entry - the last pick of 2002 - the hulking Swede Jonathan Ericsson.

SO! I smell a battle here. We're gonna pick apart the boys piece by piece and see who we would choose to lay claim to the "last really good defense position". Because really? #5 and 6 are just fillers in writers' eyes (even though they still get more time than third liners).

Brad Stuart (#23) vs. Jonathan Ericsson (#52)

Build: Stuart weighs in at 213lbs. and stands a nice 6'2". He's 28 years old and should be coming into his prime. Ericsson is 6'4" (6'5" on some sites) and weighs 206lbs. Don't let the weight difference fool you, both know how to use what they have. Ericsson, being the biggest guy I've heard of excepting Chara, gets my vote for Best Build. As it is, those numbers are probably from the beginning of the season, and I'm sure they've either had him build up or he just plain has from his black ace time.

Looks: When Stuart came to Detroit from LA, he had the blonde highlights of a surfer dude. He's since shed the spiky streaks and is sporting a simple brown shaggy poofball (though it might've diminished when that playoff beard left). What stands out most about Stuart though is his kind, almost puppy dog eyes. The man is so soft-spoken you have to be dead quiet to hear him most the time, and I've never seen eyes reflect this demeanor so well! They're certainly something to get lost in. Ericsson, on the other hand, seems to be taking after Detroit's "new Yzerman" (per Lidström's claim when he arrived in the States) in copying countryman Henrik Zetterberg's long and slightly greasy 'do. When he was drafted, he had the dark locks chopped and spiked, where did that go? But the sealing deal for Ericsson is his eyes and smile combined. Yes, I'm an eye person, but smiles can also really do me in. His combination is about as knockout as they come. Dark eyes, not your typical Swede color, with a shy-blended-with-cunning smirk can sweep one off their feet. Think I'm joking? Look at this picture! *Fans self* That's a face to swoon over if ever I saw one! So overall, even though I was raised to like the pretty boys with highlights - no matter outgoing or shy - I'm the typical rebel who likes the opposite, and Ericsson's cliché bad boy long hair, combined with that mischievous smile do us in. Ericsson for the win.

Nickname: Finally, a simple column to judge. Can Ericsson go for the trifecta? No way can I hide it, the answer of course is yes. Stuart is simply "Stuie" or any variation of that - typically "Stewie" even though his name doesn't have a 'w'. What does that remind me of? Family Guy. I can only take so much of that show before I want to break something. So definitely not my favorite nickname. Ericsson though? "Big Rig". Oh... yes, most definitely. The name fits the man and it has nothing to do with his legal name. Originality! And it suits him! And it can even be considered slightly dirty. Ooh, might've just went a step too far. But I don't care, Ericsson still takes the cake even if my slightly twisted mind wouldn't have come up with that!

Winner: Jonathan "Big Rig" Ericsson!

Now for an honest take on abilities? I would still vote Ericsson IF it could be between the two for the #4 spot. Stuart is a stay-at-home defenseman who, because the rest of the team does it, tries to move into the play at times. Unfortunately it doesn't always end up too pretty (see Game 3 of the Cup finals). If he would accept that he is JUST a stay-at-home d-man I would be content. He has a rocket, he hits BIG, and he is very solid in his own end. But Ericsson was hand-picked by our master scout to be a glove for this specialized team. Two-way potential, solid at both ends of the ice, a rocket of a shot, hits big and will soon hit bigger, and oh yes, will drop the gloves if he must. Care to see him wail on an unfortunate minor-leaguer a couple inches smaller who didn't think the big guy could handle himself? Be my guest, stare in awe at the beast unleashed (he's #4 in white). I think I'm in love with the potential. Hey Kenny? Bring the kid up :)

Young Stars: Cup Cuties

2008-06-11T16:32:00.010-04:00

I want to take a moment to give a round of mega-praise to the rookie "black aces", and a very special rookie who actually made the Cup lineup, because it's never too early to look to the future!

First up? Darren Helm (pictured at left with girlfriend).

It was "Helmer"s first year in the AHL and he was a complete gem. But he really shone when given a chance with the big team! Called up amidst a panicky injury bug that was determined to keep most of our big guys out, Helm stepped in as though he had been with the parent club all season. Gritty, swift, and tough as nails, he showed the skill the scouts saw from day one. There was little doubt he was going to take the place of Kris Draper once Drapes finally retires... but Helm probably has even more to give than his professor. Baby faced and looking like he just left high school, everyone on the opposing teams underestimated him. After all, he played just seven regular season games as a call-up, what should be expected but some puck movement and occasional flashes of speed? Helmer shut them up though. He centered the fourth line with the skill of a vet, set up some beautiful plays for his teammates, and even netted two of his own to all but seal his spot for next season. Yes, Helm probably skipped over ever heading back to the AHL, he was that helpful in his first ever season tasting the NHL, let alone post-season.

Another guy I want to highlight is the hulking blue-liner our coach is dead set on having join the big club next season - Jonathan Ericsson (pictured at right). Quite the story behind this guy, let me tell you! Drafted 291st overall in 2002 - yes, last overall - he was a center turned defenseman as per our super-scout's recommendation (note to Mr. Illitch: give Håkan Andersson a really, really big cookie!!). During that stretch where all of our top four were injured, Ericsson made his massive presence known. From his first game dressed, my family and I were calling him "freight train" for the way he chugged along so quickly and effortlessly. His true nickname though, "Big Rig," is WAYYY more fitting! With practice, I see him following Vladimir Konstantinov and current teammate Niklas Kronwall in the direction of clean, massive hits - Ericsson is listed at 6'5" and 218lbs so it's not a long shot! He's also dropped the gloves for the farm team, so he has guts. Additionally, he looks to have a very nice potential as a goal scoring blue liner a-la Nicklas Lidström. In only eight games with Detroit, he scored his first goal - a massive rocket from the blue line or beyond... that thing had eyes all the way. If Babcock has his way, not only will he be petitioned to get his name on this year's cup (I'd go for it - those 8 games he played he helped hold our heads above water!) but he will be on the roster for next season or a constant call-up.

Finally let's look at our "straight-from-State" forward. With injuries causing a bit of a problem during the last stretch before playoffs, and with his future at Michigan State up in the air, Justin Abdelkader decided to forego his remaining year of NCAA eligibility to play a game with the Wings. His first game was literally a freebie for the Wings as he was still unsigned! Immediately after his free game, he was signed to a 3-year entry level contract, effective until 2011, and saw one more day of action before his season was over as the team was getting healthy. He remained with the team through the playoffs, gaining valuable experience as a "black ace" and was on-hand to raise Stanley himself. No doubt the few months of practice with the healthy Wing scratches - including Hall of Fame goaltender Dominik Hasek and "Captain America" Chris Chelios - has added years of knowledge to the already talented future grinder. He may only be cute in a goofy, baby face, kid-next-door kind of look, but "Abby" showed in his two games why the scouts think he will be a perfect fit once Kirk Maltby decides to hang them up. Reasons why? He was the 2006-07 NCAA Frozen Four's Most Outstanding Player, 2007-08's CCHA Best Defensive Forward, was named the 2007-08 CCHA All-Conference honorable mention, and earned the 2007-08 CCHA Humanitarian of the Year award. Talented? Oh yes. And kind hearted like the entire Red Wing organization. They sure can pick winners!!

And, oops! I lied! Abdelkader wasn't my last shout out. I just HAVE to get my praise in for a kid that most who don't know him probably think isn't worth the hype. One Mr. Jakub Kindl, my LOVE! He's 21 years old, a beautiful Czech boy... and had a ~~terrible~~ despicable +/- in his first full AHL season. Yes, he was league-worst with -34, but you can't blame the kid as his team didn't make the playoffs and he was trying TOO hard to bring them up. Yes, there is such a thing as trying too hard, and he seems to be the king of it. The Griffins General Manager was sure to give this observation, and I think it fits him: "At times he wants to carry the puck and his decision-making sometimes is a little bit questionable and that's why his plus-minus is where it is. He's shown flashes. He's better when he has less time with the puck because he does it on instinct — he just moves it quickly. The more time and space that he has, the more he wants to think it through, rather than just react. It's the nature of young defensemen coming up, they want to overhandle the puck rather than make the simple, safe play. That will come with time. Defensively, coming out of the corners, he's been fine. In terms of handling guys down low, there haven't been any issues. It's just an awareness and making better decisions with the puck." Kindl will probably not taste the NHL until the end of next season as a call-up, with the big and lovable Ericsson pulling odd rank on the first round draft pick, but once he relaxes, he will certainly be that first rounder we were hoping for! The experience he had as a "black ace" will hopefully calm the overactive mind of his, and if not, I say we have Chelios take the kid under his wing! Veteran experience is nothing to scoff about, and we have been proving it for years now.

Cutest of Cute: Jakub Kindl

Most Skilled of the Skilled: Darren Helm

What's With All The Retiring and Firing?

2008-06-11T14:08:00.008-04:00

It can't just be me that noticed a strange influx in the firing of head coaches this season/off-season, and with that, it also seems strange to have so many retirements slammed on us at once, doesn't it?

Let's take a look at the crazyness of front-office movement first - all drama included - firing, hiring, and interim positions filled

Anaheim - No moves made... yet. Has that crazy Burke-to-Toronto rumor settled down by now?

Calgary - Mike Keenan was hired as head coach mid-season, but looks like he will be staying put as there hasn't been any mention of otherwise.

Chicago - With old WWW (surname: Wirtz; don't know his full name, just saw enough of the WWW to tattoo it on my brain) passing away last season, it looks like the close-proximity Original Six rivals of my Wings might go through a revival. Unfortunately nothing has happened yet. To the GM, I offer my honest advice, even coming from a Wing Nut you can trust it - DUMP ROBERT LANG! Get rid of the man! I don't care if he has another season, trade him or, better yet, buy out his contract. I'm sure by now you've noticed he has no work ethic, only when he wants to be effective. The man was a regular streaker with us, I'm sure he's no different with you all.

Colorado - Quenneville out, Granato in as coach. Yep, no surprise that Q's gone. But I don't really know Granato to judge him. I do know he got into quite the screaming match with our coach Babcock this season though, during a 4-0 beating of the Avs :) I love fiery coaches, really. Up until then Babs had always had on a stern but quiet face. Thank you Granato for showing me that fire that Babs hides so well! So I guess you get a cookie for your attempts at riling up your team too.

Columbus - Hitchcock still around, GM still there... no moves even with another failed cup attempt, eh? I know there was rumors circulating about sending Nikolai Zherdev to San Jose a bit ago, so maybe you're sticking with the player movement instead of just office staff. Well, can I squeak in my word? Yes - MOVE Zherdev... but not to SJ. Know who he'd fit in fabulous with, because he clearly doesn't excel under Hitchcock's smothering? He'd fit in with Detroit marvelously. I love the kid's defensive capabilities as a center, and if you'd let him breathe, play his own way, and put him with Nash... you'd be set! But alas, you're stuck in your own way. So, have fun shuffling puzzle pieces to put together a contender when you have the right pieces but won't flip them over to see the colors.

Dallas - You have two great co-GMs who put together a dandy team to give my boys in red a run for their money. Best not be moving anyone in the office, they seem to have a good collective head on their shoulders.

Detroit - Babcock just signed to a 3-year deal, hooray! Press conference was at 11 this morning and held no surprises :) This team is exactly as he likes it, with kids waiting on the sidelines also to his liking, so we should be set for many years, even beyond these three.

Edmonton - Just... to avoid going off on you which is completely unnecessary and highly illogical this season... don't do crap. End of story.

Minnesota - I believe you just re-signed your coach, right? Other than that, I'm surprisingly in the dark considering your location in relation to Michigan. Huh. Mental note to self: add some Wild RSS feeds to the NewsFire feed reader...

Nashville - Trotz stays? Really? I'm shocked. I get that you're sentimental about him being the only coach and all that jazz, but the standard early-exits of the playoffs? They have to be disappointing. Just might be time to find another guy. Why not Paddock? He had the Senators kicking ass at the beginning of 07-08...

Los Angeles - Coach Marc Crawford fired today. Hah, no surprise there! Worst in the NHL aughta get the boot. But taking a hard look at the other office staff might not be a bad idea. Ever think it could just be the choices you're making about your team?

Phoenix - I give your office staff two big thumbs up! Yes, really. You guys did the best thing imaginable by picking up the Bryz last season and I guarantee you, if you make a few more key moves this off-season (your recent high draft picks have to be on the verge of busting out - maybe give up some 09 draft picks for UFAs?) you could be a contender. I know the Pacific Division is good, but I don't think you realize how much Bryzgalov could give you!

San Jose - Wilson gone (to Toronto), good. Good coach but not Cup material in my eyes. Seemed a bit soft whenever I caught him in interviews. If you happen to land our assistant coach, McLellan, I'm sure you'd be damn spiffy because he clearly knows what it takes to win! EDIT 7:10pm EDT: Well, you snagged him. Congrats to McLellan, but couldn't you have gone to your other interview as well? I mean, I'm proud you landed your head coach job you wanted, but really? Staying in-conference? Couldn't you have scoped out Atlanta? If you beat us, I'm not gonna be happy.

St. Louis - Honestly I don't follow you guys anymore... which is strange because you have one of my goalie loves and are in the same Division and everything. Even though you failed to make the playoffs again, I'm pretty sure you're going through a "youth movement" so you're waiting to strike. Word of advice? Get a few good vets. You traded away Weight to Anaheim which was d-u-m-b, so learn from it and get some other guys to train up your kids.

Vancouver - Fired the GM and heard from a friend you hired a new one in the middle of our Cup battle. So alas, I missed the news. Great core of guys out there, just struck by a really nasty injury bug, so I'm not sure why you even fired the guy. Anyway. Chin up, next season should be better.

Retirement is either up or just seeming like it as I'm out of school a bit early this year and get all the updates pretty much as it happens. We'll start close to home, where I know the most about the situation.

Dominik Hasek, lovingly called "The Dominator" by fans and simply Dom by teammates and staff, has called it quits after 16 marvelous seasons. He was with Chicago for two seasons before heading to Buffalo for nine, but his scattered few with Detroit are what I know him for. In Buffalo he collected six Vezina trophies and two Hart trophies, but it was with the Winged Wheelers that he grabbed his two Stanley cups - 2002 as the starter, and 2008 as the starter who lost his position to his friend Chris Osgood in round one. Typically known for basically having an ego and needing to be #1, no one really knew what was going on in the locker room when "Ozzie" was making killer saves and being everyone's hero. Turns out our Dom had "grown up" and was just plain happy for his net cohort. But this season was to be his last, claiming he felt physically 100% (and he should, he split the crease with Ozzie which kept him healthy as one should imagine for 43!) but the motivation had left him. Honestly, 16 seasons in a net with thousands of shots a season flying your way? I'd be lacking motivation too. He's won it all. Vezinas, Harts, Cups, Olympic Gold. As much as the guy drove us nuts and stopped our hearts with his sprawling saves and charges out of his net to stop guys on a breakaway (I read he never allowed a goal while charging out, crazy, eh?)... he certainly was one of the greats and he helped revolutionize the game. I'm proud to say he retired a Red Wing.

Trevor Linden announced his retirement officially today after 16 seasons with the Canucks and 19 in the league. I'm afraid I can't do him much justice as I never really clung to West Coast teams due to the time difference, but his stats can speak the justice deserved. Selected second overall in the 1988 draft, was the first Canucks rookie to score 30 goals, was named the youngest Canucks captain at 21, holds the Canucks' record for assists with 415, second place in goals with 318, received the King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 1997, and this year the NHL Player Foundation Award (co-recipient with Vinny Lecavalier). I sure wish I had paid more attention to him, or at least hadn't been born a year after his drafting, so I could know what he was like in his prime. I would guess it's a surefire bet he gets his #16 retired by the club - he seems to have been a cornerstone for them.

And I know even less about him, but Mattias Norstrom of the Dallas Stars is retiring as well.

Out East, Glen Wesley retired from the Carolina Hurricanes, and I thought I knew of another, but apparently not.

Some whispers circulating about a number of guys too. Dallas Drake (DET) is to let the team know before the Draft what his intentions are; just after the Stars' exit there was talk of Mike Modano considering the Big 'R'; and it's also been whispered that the Canucks will lose another big name in Markus Naslund - for a team that's gone through so many injuries, a front office move, a young prospect's untimely death (R.I.P. Luc Bourdon), and now a team legend's retirement, what would another big name's departure do?

I might've missed a few, as I've been swallowed by Cup Crazies of late, so excuse me for not knowing everything on the other WC teams. This is why I need a few writers who can cover the other teams! ;) See the column to the right, below the blurb about WCGG, for more information on writing for us.

--Amanda

Welcome to WCGG!

2008-06-11T01:53:00.001-04:00

Welcome fans of the NHL's Western Conference! All the good chick blogs out there I've stumbled across are based in the East and I wanted to change this unfortunate mishap. Who, after all, wants to read about some of her favorite heroes being called names just because they're on the winning team? Oh wait... I'm sure I'll be ragging on some of the other team's guys when they win or give us a hard time so... ix-nay on the ast-lay.

Anyway. This is definitely going to be a blog based on the girlies (hence the name), so you guys might do well to scramble off. Do you really want to hear about the guys that fill our dreams and their impeccable bodies?? Didn't think so. After all, I'm certainly not going to hold back drool-worthy pictures from fellow fans, and I do a pretty good job of stumbling across them if I do say so myself! And I'm certainly not going to deny the faithful readers of any little imaginative fantasy that comes to mind - a-la the blog that gave me the idea for WCGG but is unashamed to dislike my beloved Red and White - SportSquee.

With that mention of the Red and White, my favorite Detroit Red Wings, I make note that I do not follow the remainder of the Western Conference much. I do enjoy watching the Blue Jackets on occasion (more on reasoning later), and I love to hate the Avalanche as any Winger should, but any other WC following is limited. On that, I'm looking for a few girls to take on some other Western teams to blog about - no holds barred on actual happenings, fantasy conversations, or drool-worthy pictures. Anyone want to take on the following?

-Anaheim Ducks

-Calgary Flames

-Chicago Blackhawks

-Colorado Avalanche

-Columbus Blue Jackets (I might chime in some, but not enough to cover full posting duties)

-Dallas Stars

-Edmonton Oilers

-Los Angeles Kings

-Minnesota Wild

-Nashville Predators

-Phoenix Coyotes

-San Jose Sharks

-St. Louis Blues

-Vancouver Canucks

Oh! And of course the name of the blog must be (somewhat) explained. I'm obsessive-compulsive about some things (and I am sure it will be apparent) and I wanted something that would roll off the tongue when shortened to initials. WCGG (Western Conference Girl Gaggle) sounded fine, and I liked the Webster definition of 'Gaggle' for what I envision this blog to become as well:

2 : a group, aggregation, or cluster lacking organization

Honestly! What group of girls who fawn over hockey players for their looks, abilities, or both will be able to keep organization? I rest my case.

Your faithful and Red obsessed leader,

Amanda