The Montreal Canadiens have finally traded Sergei Samsonov, find out where. Was John Muckler fired as Senators GM despite taking his team to their first ever Stanley Cup Finals? As well as the rest of the day’s signings and re-signings.
Montreal Finally Moves Samsonov
The Montreal Canadiens tried shopping him around most of last season, scratching him, even waiving him at one point. But they have finally cut ties with the Russian-born winger, all without buying him out.
The Canadiens trade Sergei Samsonov to Chicago in exchange for defenseman Jassen Cullimore and young winger Tony Salmelainen.
Samsonov was ostracized in Montreal after failing to produce the points that his $3.525 million per year contract would suggest. In 63 games last year, Samsonov netted nine goals and 17 assists. He was also a healthy scratch for 18 games and all of the team’s final 13 games.
“Considering we didn’t have plans for Sergei Samsonov in our organization for next season, our options were either buy out his contract or to trade him…” said Canadiens GM Bob Gainey.
The Blackhawks dumped defenseman Jassen Cullimore in the deal. Cullimore, who is a cap hit of $1.9 million, will be immediately bought out by the Canadiens. (I believe the cap hit for the buyout is $621,000 for the next two seasons, but I’ll confirm that later).
The Hawks also give up speedy young forward Tony Salmalainen. He will join his third organization in as many years after being Edmonton’s second round pick in 1999. Last season, Salmelainen, 25, scored 17 points in 57 games. His cap hit his $700,000 and he is scheduled to be a restricted free agent at season’s end.
Identical Up-Bringing, Identical Contracts
The Canadiens have re-signed defenseman Mike Komisarek and forward Chris Higgins to two-year deals worth $3.4 million a piece.
Each of the Long Island natives will make $1.5 million this season and $1.9 million the next (cap hit: $1.7M per season).
“Christopher Higgins and Mike Komisarek are two of the young players we consider to be building blocks for the long term success of our team,” said GM Bob Gainey in a statement about two of his former first round picks.
Higgins missed 21 games with an ankle injury last season, but still mustered 22 goals and 38 points in 61 games.
Komisarek, the stay-at-home, physical defenseman, set career highs in games (82), goals (4), assists (15) and points (19).
Hlavac Another Go
The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed left wing Jan Hlavac to a one-year deal.
“Hlavac is a highly skilled player who we believe will fit in well within our group of top six forwards and a player we hope will develop some chemistry with Brad Richards,” said Lightning general manager Jay Feaster. “The new-NHL is tailor-made for Jan’s game…”
Hlavac, who will be 31 by the start of this season, hasn’t played in the NHL since 2003-04 with the New York Rangers. He spent the last three seasons with either Sparta Praha (CZE) and Servette Geneve (SUI-A).
Terms of the deal were not yet disclosed.
Quick Hits:
In a report that serviced after 1 a.m. Eastern Time, the Toronto Sun reports that Ottawa Senators general manager John Muckler has been fired. Confirmation and details to follow.
The Philadelphia Flyers have re-signed goaltender Antero Niittymaki to a two-year deal worth $2.45 million (cap hit: $1.225 million per season).
The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Ben Guite to a two-year deal and energy forward Cody McCormick to a one-year deal.
The Montreal Canadiens have signed defensive prospect Pavel Valentenko to a three-year entry level deal. Terms were not disclosed. Valentenko was the Habs fifth pick in the 2006 draft.
The Minnesota Wild have signed Austrian defenseman Andre Lakos to a one-year, two-way deal. The six-foot-six, 230-pound defenseman has never played a second of NHL hockey. The contract is worth $575,000 if he stays with Minnesota and $100,000 if he is sent to Houston (AHL).
The Bruins have fired head coach Dave Lewis.
The Calgary Flames have hired Mike Keenan as their new head coach.
Featured Transaction Story
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Recent NHL Transactions
The Lightning bring back an old face…again. A series of largely unreported signings were made yesterday. Where are Alexeev and Arkhipov going? As well as some news about Randy Carlyle.
Lightning Strikes Thrice
The Tampa Bay Lightning have acquired center Chris Gratton from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a second round pick in 2007 or 2008 (Florida’s option).
Gratton, Tampa Bay’s first pick, third overall in 1993, will join the Lightning for the third time in his career.
“Chris Gratton is the ideal third line center for our hockey team,” Lightning GM Jay Feaster said. “We have been pursuing Chris for some time now, and I honestly thought we were going to be able to get a deal done to acquire him at the trade deadline this past season.”
The six-foot-four, 221-pound forward netted 13 goals and 35 points last season for Florida, while leading the Panthers in faceoff percentage.
Panthers Go All-In on Allen
As previously reported on Faceoff Factor, the Florida Panthers have re-signed defenseman Bryan Allen to a five-year contract extension.
The deal is worth $14.5 million over the five seasons (cap hit: $2.9 million/year).
The defensive-minded defenseman did set career highs in assists (21) and points (25) last season.
“Bryan proved to be one of our top four defenseman last year and he will continue to play a vital role in our team’s future success,” said Panthers GM and coach Jacques Martin in a release.
Sitting Duck, Reigning Champ
The Anaheim Ducks have extended the contract of their head coach Randy Carlyle until 2008-09.
“Randy has been the perfect fit for this organization with hard-working, aggressive style,” said Ducks GM Brian Burke in a release.
Carlyle, 51, led the Ducks to a Stanley Cup championship this season, a fitting ending to a season that saw the Ducks break most of their major statistical franchise records.
Defenseman Boumedienne Rejoins Capitals
The Washington Capitals have re-signed defenseman Josef Boumedienne to a one-year, $500,000 contract.
The 29-year-old Swedish defenseman signed a one-way deal with Washington. In prior seasons, Boumedienne was offered a two-way contract (saving the club money by greatly reducing the salary of a player when he is sent to the minors) which he rejected. Instead, the Stockholm-native spent the past three seasons in the top leagues of Sweden, Finland and Switzerland playing for four different teams in all.
“The hope is that [Boumedienne] can help us,” Capitals GM George McPhee said. “But if not, it doesn’t hurt us too much,” McPhee re-assures.
Thirty Seconds to Lars
The Philadelphia Flyers re-signed smooth-skating defenseman Lars Jonsson to a one-year two-way contract worth $600,000.
“He told us he wanted to come back,” Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. “We challenged him. He has to show us something more to be in the NHL…he needs to take that next step.”
The Flyers have also re-signed gritty forward Riley Cote to a two-way deal worth $500,000. Both players are expected to start the year with the Philadelphia Phantoms (AHL).
Devils Sign a Pair
The New Jersey Devils have signed Karpat Oulu (SM-liiga [Fin]) center Jari Viuhkola, first round pick defenseman Matthew Corrente.
Viuhkola, 27, has spent the past seven seasons in the Finnish Elite League. He notched 38 assists and 45 points in 37 games last season.
Corrente, 19, was the last pick of the first round in 2006. He spent last season with Saginaw (OHL) and Mississauga (OHL) scoring three goals plus 23 assists in 43 games.
Terms of the deals were not yet released.
Avalanche Re-Sign Two
Role player Scott Parker and young defenseman Johnny Boychuk have been re-signed by Colorado.
Parker, 29, was acquired at the deadline from San Jose last season. He has signed a one-year, $475,000 contract.
Boychuk, 23, is the Avs second round choice in 2002 and spent last season with Albany (AHL). He received a one-year, two-way deal worth $475,000.
Blackhawks Lose Two
Former Blackhawks center Denis Arkhipov, who was not expected to be re-signed by Chcago anyway, signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the Russian Super League.
Deadline acquisition and former eighth overall draft pick Nikita Alexeev will also not be brought back after he signed to play in Russia for the upcoming season.
“We took a shot, but he just didn’t do anything for us,” remarked Dave Tallon, Blackhawks GM. “We weren’t happy with the way he played. We expected a lot more.”
Lightning Strikes Thrice
The Tampa Bay Lightning have acquired center Chris Gratton from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a second round pick in 2007 or 2008 (Florida’s option).
Gratton, Tampa Bay’s first pick, third overall in 1993, will join the Lightning for the third time in his career.
“Chris Gratton is the ideal third line center for our hockey team,” Lightning GM Jay Feaster said. “We have been pursuing Chris for some time now, and I honestly thought we were going to be able to get a deal done to acquire him at the trade deadline this past season.”
The six-foot-four, 221-pound forward netted 13 goals and 35 points last season for Florida, while leading the Panthers in faceoff percentage.
Panthers Go All-In on Allen
As previously reported on Faceoff Factor, the Florida Panthers have re-signed defenseman Bryan Allen to a five-year contract extension.
The deal is worth $14.5 million over the five seasons (cap hit: $2.9 million/year).
The defensive-minded defenseman did set career highs in assists (21) and points (25) last season.
“Bryan proved to be one of our top four defenseman last year and he will continue to play a vital role in our team’s future success,” said Panthers GM and coach Jacques Martin in a release.
Sitting Duck, Reigning Champ
The Anaheim Ducks have extended the contract of their head coach Randy Carlyle until 2008-09.
“Randy has been the perfect fit for this organization with hard-working, aggressive style,” said Ducks GM Brian Burke in a release.
Carlyle, 51, led the Ducks to a Stanley Cup championship this season, a fitting ending to a season that saw the Ducks break most of their major statistical franchise records.
Defenseman Boumedienne Rejoins Capitals
The Washington Capitals have re-signed defenseman Josef Boumedienne to a one-year, $500,000 contract.
The 29-year-old Swedish defenseman signed a one-way deal with Washington. In prior seasons, Boumedienne was offered a two-way contract (saving the club money by greatly reducing the salary of a player when he is sent to the minors) which he rejected. Instead, the Stockholm-native spent the past three seasons in the top leagues of Sweden, Finland and Switzerland playing for four different teams in all.
“The hope is that [Boumedienne] can help us,” Capitals GM George McPhee said. “But if not, it doesn’t hurt us too much,” McPhee re-assures.
Thirty Seconds to Lars
The Philadelphia Flyers re-signed smooth-skating defenseman Lars Jonsson to a one-year two-way contract worth $600,000.
“He told us he wanted to come back,” Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. “We challenged him. He has to show us something more to be in the NHL…he needs to take that next step.”
The Flyers have also re-signed gritty forward Riley Cote to a two-way deal worth $500,000. Both players are expected to start the year with the Philadelphia Phantoms (AHL).
Devils Sign a Pair
The New Jersey Devils have signed Karpat Oulu (SM-liiga [Fin]) center Jari Viuhkola, first round pick defenseman Matthew Corrente.
Viuhkola, 27, has spent the past seven seasons in the Finnish Elite League. He notched 38 assists and 45 points in 37 games last season.
Corrente, 19, was the last pick of the first round in 2006. He spent last season with Saginaw (OHL) and Mississauga (OHL) scoring three goals plus 23 assists in 43 games.
Terms of the deals were not yet released.
Avalanche Re-Sign Two
Role player Scott Parker and young defenseman Johnny Boychuk have been re-signed by Colorado.
Parker, 29, was acquired at the deadline from San Jose last season. He has signed a one-year, $475,000 contract.
Boychuk, 23, is the Avs second round choice in 2002 and spent last season with Albany (AHL). He received a one-year, two-way deal worth $475,000.
Blackhawks Lose Two
Former Blackhawks center Denis Arkhipov, who was not expected to be re-signed by Chcago anyway, signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the Russian Super League.
Deadline acquisition and former eighth overall draft pick Nikita Alexeev will also not be brought back after he signed to play in Russia for the upcoming season.
“We took a shot, but he just didn’t do anything for us,” remarked Dave Tallon, Blackhawks GM. “We weren’t happy with the way he played. We expected a lot more.”
Friday, June 8, 2007
Yashin Gone, Wild Goalies, Some Former Pens and More
The 2006-07 NHL season has concluded, rather abruptly for Senator sympathizers and quite joyously for the Duck devotees. However, for some people, like myself, the NHL excitement never ends. Another exciting offseason was officially kicked off a little before 11 p.m. eastern time on Wednesday night. The odd signing or minor league deal has trickled in recently, but now we’ll begin to dine on the main course of the NHL offseason.
Yashin Cashin’ Out
The New York Islanders and center Alexei Yashin have cut ties after GM Garth Snow decided to buy out the remaining four years of Yashin’s ten-year albatross of a contract.
“It’s going to make the team have a different look,” said coach Ted Nolan. Who expressed interest in bringing back wingers Jason Blake and Ryan Smyth.
Yashin became an Islander in one of the many irreparable moves that the Islanders made in the past decade. Yashin was sent from Ottawa to Long Island in a deal that sent Bill Muckalt, Zdeno Chara and the second overall pick in 2001 draft (Jason Spezza) the other way. Hindsight is 20/20 but clichés can only take you so far.
Yashin would go on to tally 290 points in 346 games with the Islanders on a ten year contract that saw him making $8.75 million per season (pre lockout, but the original contract was 10 years, $87.5 million signed in 2000-01) .
Speaking of cap stuff: Yashin was scheduled to remain an Islander until 2011 with a cap hit of $7.415 million per season. The new cap hit is $2.204 million per season until 2015.
Ted Nolan followed up, “I believe this is in the best interests of the team and player. Alexei will have the opportunity to pursue a fresh start and we’ll look at options to fill his position.”
The Islanders former captain is now 33 years old and is an unrestricted free agent.
Wildly Successful Goalie Re-Signs
The Minnesota Wild and Niklas Backstrom have agreed on a rather substantial contract that will keep Backstrom in Minnesota for two more seasons.
Backstrom, 29, came on as Minnesota’s backup goaltender out of Finland (Karpat Oulu [SM-Liiga] to be exact). Backstrom took over for Manny Fernandez later on in the season. Backstrom went 23-8-6 in 41 games, with a 1.97 GAA and a league best .929 save pct. It is extremely unlikely that Backstrom will be able to keep up numbers of that caliber, but the Wild are willing to give him a shot.
The deal is for two years and sees Backstrom rake in $6.2 million (cap hit: $3.1 million per season).
Doug Risebrough, Wild GM, was asked if it’s possible to keep splitting time between two top goaltenders, to which he replied, “It’s possible, I don’t know how it’ll work out, but it’s certainly possible.”
As you may remember, Faceoff Factor was one of the first to report that fellow Wild goaltender Manny Fernandez had expressed his dismay with the team and was asking to be traded. And yes, I did just promote the site that you were already reading from.
This move should not come as a surprise to many, Backstrom probably won’t ever leave Minnesota because of the way that they shelter their goaltenders (Backstrom’s own words, not mine). In fact, Backstrom has installed a no-trade clause for the first year of his contract and a partial no-trade clause for the second year.
“You have to fight for your spot. You have to earn your playing time,” said Backstrom about the goaltending situation.
He went on, ''[t]hat's the only thing I can control is in how good of shape I'm coming to training camp and how ready I'm going to be to fight for that spot.''
It should be very interesting to see how Backstrom performs after every team has gotten a chance to see his style and his game film. The Wild also have a very talented prospect named Josh Harding waiting for his chance to step in, a chance that could come as soon as this season.
Rising Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs and forward Nikolai Antropov have agreed to a two-year contract worth more than $4 million (cap hit: approximately $2 million, correct figure will be updated when available). The Leafs also signed defenseman Staffan Kronwall to a two-year deal worth $475,000 next year and $500,000 in 2008-09.
“Nik has continually progressed and evolved into a power forward who contributes offensively and provides size amongst our top six forwards,” said Toronto’s most hated sports figure of the day, Leafs GM John Ferguson Jr.
The 27-year-old Kazakh notched a career high in goals (18) in just 54 games last season. The Leafs drafted Antropov 10th overall in 1998, leaving such names as Alex Tanguay, Robyn Regehr and Scott Gomez on the board (again, hindsight is 20/20). Antropov, contrary to popular opinion, has not been a bust however. He has been injury prone though, he has missed 15 games or more in all but one of his seven seasons (career high games played: 72). Over that time he has registered 189 points in 374 games.
Antropov is probably best known in hockey circles for the utter disgust that Leaf fans show for him.
Kronwall appeared in 47 games for the Toronto Marlies (AHL) last season, netting 17 points. The Leafs ninth round pick in 2002 played the only 34 games of his NHL career in 2005-06 tallying one assist.
Interestingly enough, the contract is one-way. Leaving the Leafs blueline (so many puns passed over there thankfully) a little crowded. Bryan McCabe, Pavel Kubina, Tomas Kaberle, Hal Gill, Wade Belak, Ian White, Andy Wozniewski and now Staffan Kronwall are all under contract for next season; while Carlo Colaiacovo and Jay Harrison are restricted free agents. Not including Colaiacovo and Harrison, the Leafs will pay their rearguards nearly $21 million next season (with cap hits of more than $18 million).
Stu of the Day
The Dallas Stars have re-signed forward Stu Barnes to a one-year, $900,000 deal.
“Stu provides several positive attributes to our organization, including leadership…” said Stars GM Doug Armstrong.
Barnes, 36, scored 13 goals and 25 points while appearing in all 82 games last season. The 2007-08 season will be Barnes’ 16th in the National Hockey League.
Predators and Flyers Make Minor Deal
The Nashville Predators have acquired forward Matt Ellison from the Philadelphia Flyers for future considerations.
Ellison, 23, spent most of last season with Philadelphia (AHL). In 62 games, he racked up 39 points and he also appeared in two NHL games, going scoreless.
The Blackhawks fourth round pick in 2002 has appeared in 43 NHL games between 2003-04 and 2006-07 scoring 14 points.
Less “Greene” for a One-Way Deal
New Jersey Devils defenseman Andy Greene made $850,000 last season, his first in the NHL. This season he will make $600,000 as part of a two-year, $1.2 million one-way deal.
“There’s a little bit of a tradeoff there by taking a one-way deal and keeping [the salary] low to make sure you stay on the team,” said Greene’s agent Bill Zito.
Murray Ducks Out, Leaves Jackets Behind
Ducks Assistant GM Bob Murray has now withdrawn his name from consideration for the Blue Jackets general managing job.
Murray interviewed with the team on Friday and notified the team on Sunday that he was no longer interested in the position.
“The Blue Jackets were extremely interested in [Murray],” said an undisclosed NHL source. “Bob spent Saturday discussing it with his family, and he’s decided he’s in a very good spot right now with Anaheim…”
The frontrunners for the job are now reported to be former New York GM Neil Smith, Jackets interim GM Jim Clark and director of player development Don Boyd.
Former Penguin Mullen Joins Former Penguin Samuelsson in Flyers Organization
The Flyers and their AHL affiliate (Philadelphia Phantoms) made a few coaching changes yesterday.
The Flyers added Joe Mullen and Jack McIlhargey as assistant coaches. Flyers former assistant coach Craig Berube will be the head coach of the Phantoms. Kjell Samuelsson was announced as associate coach for the Phantoms and former Phantoms goalie Neil Little will be the Phantoms goaltending coach.
“We are extremely excited to have both the Flyers and Phantoms coaching staffs in place for the future,” said Flyers GM Paul Holmgren.
Yashin Cashin’ Out
The New York Islanders and center Alexei Yashin have cut ties after GM Garth Snow decided to buy out the remaining four years of Yashin’s ten-year albatross of a contract.
“It’s going to make the team have a different look,” said coach Ted Nolan. Who expressed interest in bringing back wingers Jason Blake and Ryan Smyth.
Yashin became an Islander in one of the many irreparable moves that the Islanders made in the past decade. Yashin was sent from Ottawa to Long Island in a deal that sent Bill Muckalt, Zdeno Chara and the second overall pick in 2001 draft (Jason Spezza) the other way. Hindsight is 20/20 but clichés can only take you so far.
Yashin would go on to tally 290 points in 346 games with the Islanders on a ten year contract that saw him making $8.75 million per season (pre lockout, but the original contract was 10 years, $87.5 million signed in 2000-01) .
Speaking of cap stuff: Yashin was scheduled to remain an Islander until 2011 with a cap hit of $7.415 million per season. The new cap hit is $2.204 million per season until 2015.
Ted Nolan followed up, “I believe this is in the best interests of the team and player. Alexei will have the opportunity to pursue a fresh start and we’ll look at options to fill his position.”
The Islanders former captain is now 33 years old and is an unrestricted free agent.
Wildly Successful Goalie Re-Signs
The Minnesota Wild and Niklas Backstrom have agreed on a rather substantial contract that will keep Backstrom in Minnesota for two more seasons.
Backstrom, 29, came on as Minnesota’s backup goaltender out of Finland (Karpat Oulu [SM-Liiga] to be exact). Backstrom took over for Manny Fernandez later on in the season. Backstrom went 23-8-6 in 41 games, with a 1.97 GAA and a league best .929 save pct. It is extremely unlikely that Backstrom will be able to keep up numbers of that caliber, but the Wild are willing to give him a shot.
The deal is for two years and sees Backstrom rake in $6.2 million (cap hit: $3.1 million per season).
Doug Risebrough, Wild GM, was asked if it’s possible to keep splitting time between two top goaltenders, to which he replied, “It’s possible, I don’t know how it’ll work out, but it’s certainly possible.”
As you may remember, Faceoff Factor was one of the first to report that fellow Wild goaltender Manny Fernandez had expressed his dismay with the team and was asking to be traded. And yes, I did just promote the site that you were already reading from.
This move should not come as a surprise to many, Backstrom probably won’t ever leave Minnesota because of the way that they shelter their goaltenders (Backstrom’s own words, not mine). In fact, Backstrom has installed a no-trade clause for the first year of his contract and a partial no-trade clause for the second year.
“You have to fight for your spot. You have to earn your playing time,” said Backstrom about the goaltending situation.
He went on, ''[t]hat's the only thing I can control is in how good of shape I'm coming to training camp and how ready I'm going to be to fight for that spot.''
It should be very interesting to see how Backstrom performs after every team has gotten a chance to see his style and his game film. The Wild also have a very talented prospect named Josh Harding waiting for his chance to step in, a chance that could come as soon as this season.
Rising Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs and forward Nikolai Antropov have agreed to a two-year contract worth more than $4 million (cap hit: approximately $2 million, correct figure will be updated when available). The Leafs also signed defenseman Staffan Kronwall to a two-year deal worth $475,000 next year and $500,000 in 2008-09.
“Nik has continually progressed and evolved into a power forward who contributes offensively and provides size amongst our top six forwards,” said Toronto’s most hated sports figure of the day, Leafs GM John Ferguson Jr.
The 27-year-old Kazakh notched a career high in goals (18) in just 54 games last season. The Leafs drafted Antropov 10th overall in 1998, leaving such names as Alex Tanguay, Robyn Regehr and Scott Gomez on the board (again, hindsight is 20/20). Antropov, contrary to popular opinion, has not been a bust however. He has been injury prone though, he has missed 15 games or more in all but one of his seven seasons (career high games played: 72). Over that time he has registered 189 points in 374 games.
Antropov is probably best known in hockey circles for the utter disgust that Leaf fans show for him.
Kronwall appeared in 47 games for the Toronto Marlies (AHL) last season, netting 17 points. The Leafs ninth round pick in 2002 played the only 34 games of his NHL career in 2005-06 tallying one assist.
Interestingly enough, the contract is one-way. Leaving the Leafs blueline (so many puns passed over there thankfully) a little crowded. Bryan McCabe, Pavel Kubina, Tomas Kaberle, Hal Gill, Wade Belak, Ian White, Andy Wozniewski and now Staffan Kronwall are all under contract for next season; while Carlo Colaiacovo and Jay Harrison are restricted free agents. Not including Colaiacovo and Harrison, the Leafs will pay their rearguards nearly $21 million next season (with cap hits of more than $18 million).
Stu of the Day
The Dallas Stars have re-signed forward Stu Barnes to a one-year, $900,000 deal.
“Stu provides several positive attributes to our organization, including leadership…” said Stars GM Doug Armstrong.
Barnes, 36, scored 13 goals and 25 points while appearing in all 82 games last season. The 2007-08 season will be Barnes’ 16th in the National Hockey League.
Predators and Flyers Make Minor Deal
The Nashville Predators have acquired forward Matt Ellison from the Philadelphia Flyers for future considerations.
Ellison, 23, spent most of last season with Philadelphia (AHL). In 62 games, he racked up 39 points and he also appeared in two NHL games, going scoreless.
The Blackhawks fourth round pick in 2002 has appeared in 43 NHL games between 2003-04 and 2006-07 scoring 14 points.
Less “Greene” for a One-Way Deal
New Jersey Devils defenseman Andy Greene made $850,000 last season, his first in the NHL. This season he will make $600,000 as part of a two-year, $1.2 million one-way deal.
“There’s a little bit of a tradeoff there by taking a one-way deal and keeping [the salary] low to make sure you stay on the team,” said Greene’s agent Bill Zito.
Murray Ducks Out, Leaves Jackets Behind
Ducks Assistant GM Bob Murray has now withdrawn his name from consideration for the Blue Jackets general managing job.
Murray interviewed with the team on Friday and notified the team on Sunday that he was no longer interested in the position.
“The Blue Jackets were extremely interested in [Murray],” said an undisclosed NHL source. “Bob spent Saturday discussing it with his family, and he’s decided he’s in a very good spot right now with Anaheim…”
The frontrunners for the job are now reported to be former New York GM Neil Smith, Jackets interim GM Jim Clark and director of player development Don Boyd.
Former Penguin Mullen Joins Former Penguin Samuelsson in Flyers Organization
The Flyers and their AHL affiliate (Philadelphia Phantoms) made a few coaching changes yesterday.
The Flyers added Joe Mullen and Jack McIlhargey as assistant coaches. Flyers former assistant coach Craig Berube will be the head coach of the Phantoms. Kjell Samuelsson was announced as associate coach for the Phantoms and former Phantoms goalie Neil Little will be the Phantoms goaltending coach.
“We are extremely excited to have both the Flyers and Phantoms coaching staffs in place for the future,” said Flyers GM Paul Holmgren.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Draft Pick Signing Deadline Passes and a Few Key Re-Signings Made
The Canucks, Canes and Flames keep some key contributors. Also a round-up of the draft pick signing deadline.
Taylor Made
As previously reported in the rumors section of Faceoff Factor, winger Taylor Pyatt and the Vancouver Canucks have come to terms on a new contract.
It is a two-year deal worth more than $3 million. The exact numbers are not known at this time.
Pyatt, who spent a sizeable chunk of time on a line with Henrik and Daniel Sedin, notched a career high 23 goals and 37 points.
Hurricane Wesley
Also reported in Faceoff Factor’s rumors page (so I’m a shameless self-promoter), the Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed defenseman Glen Wesley to a one-year deal.
Wesley will make $1.4 million this coming season, his 20th.
The Red Deer, Alberta native tallied 13 points in 68 games last season, the most since his 01-02 campaign.
Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford had this to say about the 38-year-old defenseman, “His leadership is important to the fabric of our dressing room and we are glad he is returning to play another season.”
Lombardi, Nilson Re-Up with Flames
The Calgary Flames officially announced the signing of center Matthew Lombardi to a three-year deal. However, news of this broke back in April.
The Flames also re-signed winger Marcus Nilson to a two-year extension.
Lombardi, coming off a career year, reportedly got a $5.45 or $5.5 million over those three seasons (a cap hit of $1.8167M or $1.833M).
Nilson, who has been decreasing his games played and point production on a yearly basis, did not have the figures on his contract officially released. However, unconfirmed reports out of Calgary have the figure at around $1 million per season, a decrease from $1.368 million he made this past season.
Blackhawks Sign One of Sweden’s Best
The Chicago Blackhawks have signed one of the best offensive defenseman in the Swedish Elite League, Magnus Johansson, to a one-year deal.
Johansson, who will be 34 by the time camp rolls around, has never been drafted and has never played in the NHL before.
Last year, Johansson notched a career best 28 assists and 36 points for Linkoping HC (SEL).
Terms of the deal were not officially disclosed, however, a Swedish sports source suggests that the contract may be worth between $700,000 and $800,000.
The Blackhawks also signed defensive prospect and fellow Swede, Niklas Hjalmarsson to an entry-level contract.
---Round Up: Unsigned Draft Pick Signing Deadline---
June 1st at 5 p.m. Eastern Time was the deadline to sign any non-collegiate 2005 draft picks and any draft picks that were drafted under the old CBA.
Follow Up: Thrashers Draft Picks Signed
As I reported yesterday the Thrashers signed five of their recent draft picks just before the deadline. The following are the terms of these deals…
Goaltender Ondrej Pavelec - $765,000 base salary, $85,000 signing bonus, plus incentives, if Pavelec ends up in the NHL his cap hit could be as high $1.25 million.
Defenseman Chad Denny - $550,000 base salary, $85.000 signing bonus
Forward Tomas Pospisil - $500,000 base salary
Forward Myles Stoesz - $500,000 base salary
All these players would have been eligible to re-enter the draft if left unsigned, in Pavelec’s case he very well may have been a first round pick at he re-entered.
Pavelec was considering re-entering the draft for the sole reason that Kari Lehtonen would be impeding his path en route to a starting goaltender position.
However, his agent states that the Thrashers GM changed their mind, “The fact that Don Waddell was willing to make a very special effort to bring Ondrej to North America and allow an opportunity for all of us to sit together and talk about his future was critical to getting a deal done.”
Follow Up: Wild Elect to Relinquish Thelen’s Rights
The Minnesota Wild have elected not to sign former first round draft pick A.J. Thelen.
The Wild tried to trade his rights, but no team was offering higher than the 42nd overall compensatory pick that the Wild now possess.
The only issue at hand is whether Thelen must re-enter the draft or if he becomes an unrestricted free agent. A decision that may find it’s way to arbitration.
The Wild also released their rights to goaltender Kristofer Westblom (third round, 2005) and center Kyle Bailey (fourth round, 2005)
Falling Stars
The Stars let go of a couple 2003 draft picks: goaltender Eero Kilpelainen (fifth round) and defenseman Elias Granath (sixth round).
Hanzal and Gretzky
I figured most people won’t even read this far down and it’s past two in the morning, so I can do whatever I want with my titles.
The Phoenix Coyotes have signed their first round pick from 2005, center Martin Hanzal, to a three-year entry-level contract. The deal sees Hanzal make an $850,000 base salary plus incentives.
Hanzal, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound prospect, notched 59 assists and 85 points in 60 games last year for Red Deer (WHL).
Ottawa’s Newest Senators
The Ottawa Senators have signed three of their prospects. Left-wing Kaspar Daugavins (third round, 2006), defenseman Mattias Karlsson (fourth round, 2003) and center Alexander Nikulin (fourth round, 2004).
Leafs Add Another Defensive Prospect
The Leafs have signed stay-at-home defenseman Phil Oreskovic (second round, 2005) to a three-year entry-level deal.
Oreskovic played for three teams in two leagues last season: Brampton Batallion (OHL), Owen Sound Attack (OHL) and Toronto Marlies (AHL).
Taylor Made
As previously reported in the rumors section of Faceoff Factor, winger Taylor Pyatt and the Vancouver Canucks have come to terms on a new contract.
It is a two-year deal worth more than $3 million. The exact numbers are not known at this time.
Pyatt, who spent a sizeable chunk of time on a line with Henrik and Daniel Sedin, notched a career high 23 goals and 37 points.
Hurricane Wesley
Also reported in Faceoff Factor’s rumors page (so I’m a shameless self-promoter), the Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed defenseman Glen Wesley to a one-year deal.
Wesley will make $1.4 million this coming season, his 20th.
The Red Deer, Alberta native tallied 13 points in 68 games last season, the most since his 01-02 campaign.
Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford had this to say about the 38-year-old defenseman, “His leadership is important to the fabric of our dressing room and we are glad he is returning to play another season.”
Lombardi, Nilson Re-Up with Flames
The Calgary Flames officially announced the signing of center Matthew Lombardi to a three-year deal. However, news of this broke back in April.
The Flames also re-signed winger Marcus Nilson to a two-year extension.
Lombardi, coming off a career year, reportedly got a $5.45 or $5.5 million over those three seasons (a cap hit of $1.8167M or $1.833M).
Nilson, who has been decreasing his games played and point production on a yearly basis, did not have the figures on his contract officially released. However, unconfirmed reports out of Calgary have the figure at around $1 million per season, a decrease from $1.368 million he made this past season.
Blackhawks Sign One of Sweden’s Best
The Chicago Blackhawks have signed one of the best offensive defenseman in the Swedish Elite League, Magnus Johansson, to a one-year deal.
Johansson, who will be 34 by the time camp rolls around, has never been drafted and has never played in the NHL before.
Last year, Johansson notched a career best 28 assists and 36 points for Linkoping HC (SEL).
Terms of the deal were not officially disclosed, however, a Swedish sports source suggests that the contract may be worth between $700,000 and $800,000.
The Blackhawks also signed defensive prospect and fellow Swede, Niklas Hjalmarsson to an entry-level contract.
---Round Up: Unsigned Draft Pick Signing Deadline---
June 1st at 5 p.m. Eastern Time was the deadline to sign any non-collegiate 2005 draft picks and any draft picks that were drafted under the old CBA.
Follow Up: Thrashers Draft Picks Signed
As I reported yesterday the Thrashers signed five of their recent draft picks just before the deadline. The following are the terms of these deals…
Goaltender Ondrej Pavelec - $765,000 base salary, $85,000 signing bonus, plus incentives, if Pavelec ends up in the NHL his cap hit could be as high $1.25 million.
Defenseman Chad Denny - $550,000 base salary, $85.000 signing bonus
Forward Tomas Pospisil - $500,000 base salary
Forward Myles Stoesz - $500,000 base salary
All these players would have been eligible to re-enter the draft if left unsigned, in Pavelec’s case he very well may have been a first round pick at he re-entered.
Pavelec was considering re-entering the draft for the sole reason that Kari Lehtonen would be impeding his path en route to a starting goaltender position.
However, his agent states that the Thrashers GM changed their mind, “The fact that Don Waddell was willing to make a very special effort to bring Ondrej to North America and allow an opportunity for all of us to sit together and talk about his future was critical to getting a deal done.”
Follow Up: Wild Elect to Relinquish Thelen’s Rights
The Minnesota Wild have elected not to sign former first round draft pick A.J. Thelen.
The Wild tried to trade his rights, but no team was offering higher than the 42nd overall compensatory pick that the Wild now possess.
The only issue at hand is whether Thelen must re-enter the draft or if he becomes an unrestricted free agent. A decision that may find it’s way to arbitration.
The Wild also released their rights to goaltender Kristofer Westblom (third round, 2005) and center Kyle Bailey (fourth round, 2005)
Falling Stars
The Stars let go of a couple 2003 draft picks: goaltender Eero Kilpelainen (fifth round) and defenseman Elias Granath (sixth round).
Hanzal and Gretzky
I figured most people won’t even read this far down and it’s past two in the morning, so I can do whatever I want with my titles.
The Phoenix Coyotes have signed their first round pick from 2005, center Martin Hanzal, to a three-year entry-level contract. The deal sees Hanzal make an $850,000 base salary plus incentives.
Hanzal, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound prospect, notched 59 assists and 85 points in 60 games last year for Red Deer (WHL).
Ottawa’s Newest Senators
The Ottawa Senators have signed three of their prospects. Left-wing Kaspar Daugavins (third round, 2006), defenseman Mattias Karlsson (fourth round, 2003) and center Alexander Nikulin (fourth round, 2004).
Leafs Add Another Defensive Prospect
The Leafs have signed stay-at-home defenseman Phil Oreskovic (second round, 2005) to a three-year entry-level deal.
Oreskovic played for three teams in two leagues last season: Brampton Batallion (OHL), Owen Sound Attack (OHL) and Toronto Marlies (AHL).
Friday, June 1, 2007
Cam, Canes Come to Terms, Torts Tweaks Staff and More
The Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed goaltender Cam Ward, the Lightning add to their coaching staff and some minor signings from around the league.
The Carolina Hurricanes and starting goaltender Cam Ward have come to terms on a new contract. The new deal is worth $8 million over three seasons ($2.667 million cap hit).
The deal is structured in such a way that Ward will make $2 million next season, $2.5 million in 2008-09 and $3.5 million in the final year of the contract.
“Cam is one of the cornerstones of our team moving forward,” said Canes GM Jim Rutherford.
Ward appeared in 60 games last year, notching 30 wins, a 2.93 goals against average and an .897 save percentage.
-----
The Montreal Canadiens have acquired forward Ryan Russell from the New York Rangers for a seventh round draft pick in this June’s draft. Russell has signed a three-year entry-level deal with Montreal.
Russell played for the Kootenay Ice (WHL) last season, the 20-year-old totaled 30 goals and 76 points in 58 games. He was originally the Rangers seventh round selection in 2005.
The Canadiens also signed forward Janne Lahti to a one-year deal. Lahti, 24, scored a team best 20 goals and 34 points with HPK Hameenlinna of the Finnish Elite League.
The Thrashers have signed former eighth round pick Tobias Enstrom from Modo Ornskoldsvik. The 2003 draft pick doubled his career high in points this season with 28 in 55 games on defense for Modo of the Swedish Elite League. The deal is reportedly worth $2.75 million over two seasons.
It has also been reported that the Thrashers have signed draft picks Ondrej Pavelec, Chad Denny, Tomas Pospisil, and Myles Stoesz.
The Lightning have signed draft picks Riku Helenius and Chris Lawrence.
-----
The Tampa Bay Lightning fired assistant coach Craig Ramsay last week and were very quick to replace him.
Former Boston Bruins head coach Mike Sullivan is John Tortorella’s choice. Not only was he Tortorella’s selection, he was the only man considered for the job.
The Carolina Hurricanes and starting goaltender Cam Ward have come to terms on a new contract. The new deal is worth $8 million over three seasons ($2.667 million cap hit).
The deal is structured in such a way that Ward will make $2 million next season, $2.5 million in 2008-09 and $3.5 million in the final year of the contract.
“Cam is one of the cornerstones of our team moving forward,” said Canes GM Jim Rutherford.
Ward appeared in 60 games last year, notching 30 wins, a 2.93 goals against average and an .897 save percentage.
-----
The Montreal Canadiens have acquired forward Ryan Russell from the New York Rangers for a seventh round draft pick in this June’s draft. Russell has signed a three-year entry-level deal with Montreal.
Russell played for the Kootenay Ice (WHL) last season, the 20-year-old totaled 30 goals and 76 points in 58 games. He was originally the Rangers seventh round selection in 2005.
The Canadiens also signed forward Janne Lahti to a one-year deal. Lahti, 24, scored a team best 20 goals and 34 points with HPK Hameenlinna of the Finnish Elite League.
The Thrashers have signed former eighth round pick Tobias Enstrom from Modo Ornskoldsvik. The 2003 draft pick doubled his career high in points this season with 28 in 55 games on defense for Modo of the Swedish Elite League. The deal is reportedly worth $2.75 million over two seasons.
It has also been reported that the Thrashers have signed draft picks Ondrej Pavelec, Chad Denny, Tomas Pospisil, and Myles Stoesz.
The Lightning have signed draft picks Riku Helenius and Chris Lawrence.
-----
The Tampa Bay Lightning fired assistant coach Craig Ramsay last week and were very quick to replace him.
Former Boston Bruins head coach Mike Sullivan is John Tortorella’s choice. Not only was he Tortorella’s selection, he was the only man considered for the job.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
NHL Transactions and a Nathan Horton Update
The Canucks re-sign a young center, a former Rangers defenseman calls it quits, Nathan Horton has a change of heart and more.
Kesler, Canucks Concur on Contract
The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed center Ryan Kesler to a three year deal. Kesler, 22, is probably best known for signing a $1.9 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers this past offseason, only to have it matched by Vancouver.
According to CKNW radio in Vancouver, the deal is worth $5.2 million over three years. A cap hit of $1.733 million per year, down from the $1.9 million this past season.
Kesler appeared in 48 games this season, notching 16 points. However, his season was dragged down by injuries, including a hip injury that caused him to miss the final 34 games of the regular season; he would return for game one of the Western Conference quaterfinals but once again was injured and did not play again.
Ten-Time All Star Calls It a Career
Brian Leetch decides to officially retire after sitting out the entire 2006-07 season. The 39-year-old defenseman concludes his 18-year NHL career with 1,028 points, ten all-star appearances and two Norris Trophy wins for being league’s best defenseman.
“I have been fortunate to be an NHL player since 1988,” Leetch said in a statement. “I missed being in the NHL this past season, but believe it was the right time for me to stop playing.”
Leetch was selected ninth overall in 1986 by the New York Rangers and he spent the better part of 16 years at the Garden. He ended his career with brief stints in Toronto and Boston.
In 1,205 games, Leetch recorded 247 goals and 781 assists, making him one of only seven defensemen to record 1,000 career points. In addition, he is the only American-born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff MVP when he helped the Rangers end a 54-year Stanley Cup drought in 1994.
Horton Hears a…Jokinen?
Trade rumors churned heavily in February as Panthers forward Nathan Horton was reportedly unhappy with Florida and wanted to be traded. However, all that has changed.
“No question I want to stay here,” said an optimistic Horton who will turn 22 on Tuesday. “It’s going to be the place to be the next couple years. We’re going to be in the playoffs and it’s going to be exciting.”
The attitude change can largely be attributed to Panthers’ captain Olli Jokinen. Jokinen and Horton spent an inordinate amount time together off the ice in recent months and it seems as if Jokinen’s talks have convinced Horton to stick around.
The Panthers traded down from first overall in the 2003 draft in order to secure the third selection, previously owned by the Pittsburgh Penguins, to draft Nathan Horton. In 208 career games, Horton has 73 goals and 131 points.
Horton, who made $1.1 million this season, is a restricted free agent.
Follow up: Condition Met in Pronger Deal
Upon the Anaheim Ducks defeating the Detroit Red Wings in game six of the Western Conference Finals they punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup Finals but also surrendered their first round pick in 2008.
The Oilers traded superstar defenseman Chris Pronger to the Ducks in exchange for winger Joffrey Lupul, defenseman Ladislav Smid, a first round pick in 2007, a second round pick in 2008 and a first round pick in 2008 that would be acquired upon the Ducks reaching the Stanley Cup Finals this season.
“What happened is that we were getting the deal done and [Oilers GM] Kevin [Lowe] said, ‘I’m giving you a ticket to the final.’ So I said, ‘Well if we make it to the final I’ll put in another first-rounder,’” said Ducks GM Brian Burke.
“I’m very happy to pay it,” Burke quips.
Kevin Lowe’s thoughts, “It’s official, we can start cheering for Ottawa as of last night.”
Kesler, Canucks Concur on Contract
The Vancouver Canucks have re-signed center Ryan Kesler to a three year deal. Kesler, 22, is probably best known for signing a $1.9 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers this past offseason, only to have it matched by Vancouver.
According to CKNW radio in Vancouver, the deal is worth $5.2 million over three years. A cap hit of $1.733 million per year, down from the $1.9 million this past season.
Kesler appeared in 48 games this season, notching 16 points. However, his season was dragged down by injuries, including a hip injury that caused him to miss the final 34 games of the regular season; he would return for game one of the Western Conference quaterfinals but once again was injured and did not play again.
Ten-Time All Star Calls It a Career
Brian Leetch decides to officially retire after sitting out the entire 2006-07 season. The 39-year-old defenseman concludes his 18-year NHL career with 1,028 points, ten all-star appearances and two Norris Trophy wins for being league’s best defenseman.
“I have been fortunate to be an NHL player since 1988,” Leetch said in a statement. “I missed being in the NHL this past season, but believe it was the right time for me to stop playing.”
Leetch was selected ninth overall in 1986 by the New York Rangers and he spent the better part of 16 years at the Garden. He ended his career with brief stints in Toronto and Boston.
In 1,205 games, Leetch recorded 247 goals and 781 assists, making him one of only seven defensemen to record 1,000 career points. In addition, he is the only American-born player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff MVP when he helped the Rangers end a 54-year Stanley Cup drought in 1994.
Horton Hears a…Jokinen?
Trade rumors churned heavily in February as Panthers forward Nathan Horton was reportedly unhappy with Florida and wanted to be traded. However, all that has changed.
“No question I want to stay here,” said an optimistic Horton who will turn 22 on Tuesday. “It’s going to be the place to be the next couple years. We’re going to be in the playoffs and it’s going to be exciting.”
The attitude change can largely be attributed to Panthers’ captain Olli Jokinen. Jokinen and Horton spent an inordinate amount time together off the ice in recent months and it seems as if Jokinen’s talks have convinced Horton to stick around.
The Panthers traded down from first overall in the 2003 draft in order to secure the third selection, previously owned by the Pittsburgh Penguins, to draft Nathan Horton. In 208 career games, Horton has 73 goals and 131 points.
Horton, who made $1.1 million this season, is a restricted free agent.
Follow up: Condition Met in Pronger Deal
Upon the Anaheim Ducks defeating the Detroit Red Wings in game six of the Western Conference Finals they punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup Finals but also surrendered their first round pick in 2008.
The Oilers traded superstar defenseman Chris Pronger to the Ducks in exchange for winger Joffrey Lupul, defenseman Ladislav Smid, a first round pick in 2007, a second round pick in 2008 and a first round pick in 2008 that would be acquired upon the Ducks reaching the Stanley Cup Finals this season.
“What happened is that we were getting the deal done and [Oilers GM] Kevin [Lowe] said, ‘I’m giving you a ticket to the final.’ So I said, ‘Well if we make it to the final I’ll put in another first-rounder,’” said Ducks GM Brian Burke.
“I’m very happy to pay it,” Burke quips.
Kevin Lowe’s thoughts, “It’s official, we can start cheering for Ottawa as of last night.”
Friday, May 11, 2007
NHL Transactions and Transfer Agreement a No-Go
As the offseason kicks off for 26 NHL franchises the re-signings are beginning to trickle in. Also, the Russian Hockey Federation and the NHL still cannot come to terms despite the promising words from before.
'Poni' Up
The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed left winger Alexei Ponikarovsky to a three year deal, worth $6.315 million (cap hit: $2.105 million per season).
The Maple Leafs draft pick in the fourth round of the 1998 draft has established new career highs in assists (24) and points (45) to go along with a tied-for-career-best 21 goals.
The six foot four forward has played in 268 career games, all with Toronto, tallying 120 points. He’ll make $1.575 million the first season of this new contract, $2.24 million the second and $2.5 million in the final year before he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Upshall Re-Ups With Flyers
Young forward Scottie Upshall, the only NHLer sent back to Philadelphia in the Peter Forsberg deal, has signed a two-year extension with the club.
The former sixth overall draft choice will make $1.2 million next season and $1.25 million the following year. (Cap hit: $1.225 million per season).
Upshall scored 16 points in 32 games last season, 13 of those points came in his 18 games as a Flyer.
Warding Off Free Agency
The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed trade deadline acquisition Jason Ward to a two-year deal worth a reported $675,000 per season.
The right winger spent last season with three different clubs: the Rangers and Kings before ending up in Tampa Bay.
In 70 games last year, the former first round pick of Montreal, scored 19 points, including eight in 17 games with the Lightning.
Lightning GM Jay Feaster said in a statement, “[Ward’s] impact on our hockey team was tremendous.” He went on, “His size, grit and speed make him very effective in our fore-checking system and he is a solid addition to our locker room.”
Kirk Maltby to Enterprise on New Contract
The Detroit Red Wings and forward Kirk Maltby have agreed to a three-year contract worth $2.65 million (cap hit: $883,333 per season).
Maltby, 34, says that the deal was actually completed before the playoffs began but was kept quiet to avoid any distraction.
Maltby, who has been one of the better defensive forwards of the past decade, said that he was very pleased to continue being a Red Wing.
“Definitely happy, extremely happy…I wanted to stay here. That was the ultimate goal.”
The former 3rd round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 1992 was traded to Detroit in 1996 and has accumulated 233 points in 881 career games.
“It’s not enough”: Russians and NHL Once Again Fail To Agree
After what seemed like a viable solution was on the horizon the Russians once again refuse to sign the International Ice Hockey Federation transfer agreement with the National Hockey League.
The proposed four-year deal would see $12 million per year sent to Russia in exchange for up to 60 player transfers. Which is a minimum of $200,000 per player. The Russians consider this a “disrespectful” amount of money.
“Our clubs were not happy with $200,000 for such players as Malkin or Ovechkin,” said Vladislav Tretiak, president of the Russian Hockey Federation through a translator.
The Russians are looking for at least one million dollars per player in the agreement.
It was also revealed that the loophole that Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin used to escape Russia will be closed up. Russian labor laws, which include hockey players, allow employees to quit their jobs (thusly terminating any contract) with two weeks notice. A new law will require these contracts to be bought out as opposed to ducked out of.
“If a player runs away, there will be serious financial reprimands…[h]e will think twice about it,” said Tretiak.
Negotiations are expected to continue throughout the summer.
“Please understand that we are not against the NHL, we are for cooperation,” Tretiak assures.
'Poni' Up
The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed left winger Alexei Ponikarovsky to a three year deal, worth $6.315 million (cap hit: $2.105 million per season).
The Maple Leafs draft pick in the fourth round of the 1998 draft has established new career highs in assists (24) and points (45) to go along with a tied-for-career-best 21 goals.
The six foot four forward has played in 268 career games, all with Toronto, tallying 120 points. He’ll make $1.575 million the first season of this new contract, $2.24 million the second and $2.5 million in the final year before he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Upshall Re-Ups With Flyers
Young forward Scottie Upshall, the only NHLer sent back to Philadelphia in the Peter Forsberg deal, has signed a two-year extension with the club.
The former sixth overall draft choice will make $1.2 million next season and $1.25 million the following year. (Cap hit: $1.225 million per season).
Upshall scored 16 points in 32 games last season, 13 of those points came in his 18 games as a Flyer.
Warding Off Free Agency
The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed trade deadline acquisition Jason Ward to a two-year deal worth a reported $675,000 per season.
The right winger spent last season with three different clubs: the Rangers and Kings before ending up in Tampa Bay.
In 70 games last year, the former first round pick of Montreal, scored 19 points, including eight in 17 games with the Lightning.
Lightning GM Jay Feaster said in a statement, “[Ward’s] impact on our hockey team was tremendous.” He went on, “His size, grit and speed make him very effective in our fore-checking system and he is a solid addition to our locker room.”
Kirk Maltby to Enterprise on New Contract
The Detroit Red Wings and forward Kirk Maltby have agreed to a three-year contract worth $2.65 million (cap hit: $883,333 per season).
Maltby, 34, says that the deal was actually completed before the playoffs began but was kept quiet to avoid any distraction.
Maltby, who has been one of the better defensive forwards of the past decade, said that he was very pleased to continue being a Red Wing.
“Definitely happy, extremely happy…I wanted to stay here. That was the ultimate goal.”
The former 3rd round pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 1992 was traded to Detroit in 1996 and has accumulated 233 points in 881 career games.
“It’s not enough”: Russians and NHL Once Again Fail To Agree
After what seemed like a viable solution was on the horizon the Russians once again refuse to sign the International Ice Hockey Federation transfer agreement with the National Hockey League.
The proposed four-year deal would see $12 million per year sent to Russia in exchange for up to 60 player transfers. Which is a minimum of $200,000 per player. The Russians consider this a “disrespectful” amount of money.
“Our clubs were not happy with $200,000 for such players as Malkin or Ovechkin,” said Vladislav Tretiak, president of the Russian Hockey Federation through a translator.
The Russians are looking for at least one million dollars per player in the agreement.
It was also revealed that the loophole that Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin used to escape Russia will be closed up. Russian labor laws, which include hockey players, allow employees to quit their jobs (thusly terminating any contract) with two weeks notice. A new law will require these contracts to be bought out as opposed to ducked out of.
“If a player runs away, there will be serious financial reprimands…[h]e will think twice about it,” said Tretiak.
Negotiations are expected to continue throughout the summer.
“Please understand that we are not against the NHL, we are for cooperation,” Tretiak assures.
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