Chris Simon acquisition for a sixth-round pick; Deadline passed
Posted on February 26th, 2008 – 9:40 AMBy Michael Russo
Simon trade not approved yet. There’s a backlog on NHL conference calls.
Marian Hossa to Pittsburgh for Angelo Esposito, Erik Christensen and Colby Armstrong, and others. Huge deal for Atlanta. Pascal Dupuis going the other way, so maybe that evens it out 
Both NHL Commish Gary Bettman and NHLPA Chief Paul Kelly will be at the Wild game tonight. They’re in Washington for tomorrow’s steroids inquiry in front of Congress.
Mark Parrish didn’t skate this morning, but I’ve been assured he’s sick. Lemaire said either Petteri Nummelin or Matt Foy will play for him tonight.
Jacques Lemaire talked a lot this morning about how the team’s missing Mike Ramsey (eye surgery). Video coach Matt Shaw will be back in the video room tonight and goalie coach Bob Mason will be on the bench. This way Shaw, who sees a lot during video during games, can radio Mason and give input between periods.
Wild hasn’t done anything yet. Only trade made while we were down at the rink was Washington picking up goalie Cristobal Huet from Montreal.
Lots of big trades: Brian Campbell to San Jose. Brad Richards to Dallas. Ruslan Salei to Colorado, one day after Peter Forsberg.
The Wild’s competitors are getting stronger, so it’ll be interesting.
Maybe Bobby Holik, maybe Michael Peca, maybe Robert Lang (whom Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra would be ecstatic about, but it would cost roughly $3.9 or $4 million for next season)?
Wild would like Olli Jokinen (so would players in the Wild locker room). Florida doesn’t want to trade Jokinen unless it’s a no-brainer. I hear Florida does not want Benoit Pouliot. The problem? To quote an NHL scout I talked to: “There’s not much down in Houston. Not much at all.”
Which, is a problem in itself. The Wild is light on top prospects right now at the minor-league level, especially with Roman Voloshenko AWOL. I can’t see Risebrough trading a James Sheppard or Colton Gillies.
Boy, Tampa’s going to be a zoo tomorrow. Four guys (as of now) could be making their debuts against the Wild.
Adam Foote back to Colorado. Wouldn’t waive his no-trade clause to anybody else.
Sergei Fedorov on his way to Washington. To play for the Caps, not Wild…Now, Matt Cooke to the Caps, according to TSN. No longer will be bothering the Wild.
1079 Responses to "Chris Simon acquisition for a sixth-round pick; Deadline passed"
Go OJ. So Richards supposedly to Stars and Hossa to Habs, hmm.
See…I wouldn’t trade Sheppard either.
You don’t plug a hole by making it bigger.
I can’t believe they don’t want Clutterbuck… 
PMB, Belle and a 2nd.
Houston we have a problem.
No OJ. He will cost too much.
I guess I’m a little surprised there’s been no talk (that I’ve seen) of Mr. Clutterbuck being involved in any deals. I thought he had potential, and I liked what he did in his short stint with the biq squad early this year.
Trade Centre is slow. TSN’s site shows Salvador going to Devils for Janssen but not on Trade Centre site yet.
I’m so glad the debacle known as the 2004 entry draft isn’t coming back to bite us in the sweet a$$!!!!! 
Aaron in Houston says Belle has been struggling. A lot. I don’t know if he’s worth much.
Some teams (Montreal, Atlanta, Florida) have cancelled morning skate due to the craziness regarding trade deadline day.
I agree ATX… this makes me nervous. Hopefully that Federov trade comes through.. or Holik… same problem solved, less expensive cost!
Trade Sheppard if that gets the deal done! I would prefer he get shipped vs PMB.
woodcock, I agree. this TradeCentre thing doesn’t seem reliable.
I wonder if OJ is a smoke screen?
I just don’t see DR giving up what it sounds like the Cats are asking for - especially if they do not feel we have much in Houston that floats their boat.
So maybe DR’s putting out interest in OJ but the price is out of this world so that he can go to a Scott Howson and say, “look, anything short of PMB + Pouliot + Rolston for Fedorov and/or Peca??” or something in that nature???
Speculation is a wonderful thing, ain’t it?
Although he does not put up many points, me thinks Marty Lapointe would be a nice pick up.
It’s reliable but just slower than the site itself.
WRT: do you know if that’s SOP on trade deadline day? (to cancel the skate)
The Hockey News reports that Dallas is putting up Mike Smith, Jussi Jokinen and defense prospect Mark Fistric for Richards.
Holik or Federov do NOT solve the problem. I can skate faster than Holik. Federov ain’t coming to the Wild.
Someone needs to be traded out of here to get a little motivation going in the locker room.
chris I agree! PMB is more valuable than Shep IMO. Although Shep is even younger.
woodcock, I closed and reopened the TradeCentre thingy and the Salvadore deal popped up with a 10:34AM tag… I don’t think it is auto-refreshing like it says it is.
Again from the end of the last thread. It is like I have a disease to post after the thread is done:
I am not in favor of the Wild picking up a rental unless it is cheap. If they are going to do a deal, it is hopefully someone young enough to be here awhile.
To get someone good, it seems to me we will see a shift of talents and the Wild get more physical at the expense of losing a skilled guy.
Seems like with OJ being physically big or Stoll who mixes it up too, that those guys are the most prominent names that provide a long-term change.
But, with the steep prices being asked, now I am starting to wonder whether NHL buyers will get anything done?
From ATX’s comments, we have assets in Houston, but why deal them if they will be big stars tomorrow?
So, maybe we just sit tight unless the deal is affordable in terms of assets lost. And, maybe doing nothing is the best deal we can get.
What’s your FO percentage, kj?
Adam: if I’m Feaster I take that deal and run like I stole something (which I would have, in that case).
Sheppard is light years ahead of PMB in terms of development compaired to date.
i agree with austintxwildfan.
Holik or Federov do NOT solve the problem. I can skate faster than Holik. Federov ain’t coming to the Wild.
So, seeing how your predictions about Foppa went, we can expect to see Federov in Wild whites in DC this evening?
Sorry KJ, couldn’t resist.
Well, in my opinion PMB is the expendable guys amongst our “skill” players. Not to say I don’t like the guy, because I do, but if we’re going to make a trade he’d be the best guy to be involved. Plus, the Wild aren’t going to get anyone without giving up PMB, Rolston, Demo, or Gabby. Anyone they do give up on that (short) list will just be filler and supplemental to one of those four…
And Florida should not complain about teams not being any good. It’s been, what, 12 years since their last playoff run?
At this point, with the team being SO inconsistent all year long, I would prefer they make a minor move to get another mid-level centerman here for the final 20 games. Then, this summer, sign Gabby and Demo to extensions; give PMB his 1-yr deal to keep him here; allow Rolston to go elsewhere unless he wants to resign here for a little less than what he would get elsewhere and then make a SERIOUS play for a legit FA center. I really don’t want to see the team couogh up way too much to bring in the likes of OJ. If Hossa isn’t dealt in the next 4 hours, he would be a player the team could target this summer, which would also expedite the signing of Gabby and Demo to extensions.
Dave…I am around 100% right now…
Sheppard is an untouchable on this team, I guarantee it. He is a franchise player.
Apparently other team’s NHL scouts think the cupboard is pretty bare in Houston. I tend to agree - which is why no one has been called up.
To continue the speculation, I think Gabby was smokescreening Hossa’s interest, and he’ll be in Iron Range red this afternoon.
PMB should be off limits. By trading him, you’re not solving the center problem and your giving up a young future all-star.
As much as I love Rolston, he’s the only quality player we could give up to get a player like Hossa or Jokinen.
Gaborik, PMB, Koivu, and Burns are all Wild-reared, young, and will all be all-stars….can’t give those guys up.
Richards would be nice, but I can’t see the Wild picking up that contract…plus he’s a league worst -25, which I don’t think would please Lemaire.
Good one, kj. I walked right into that one…..
Goody…c’mon…my track record is still better than Eklund…I am only 0 for 1…
Why would Gabby want to smokescreen Hossa’s interest, mbrose? I’m not saying he wasn’t, I just don’t understand why he’d do it.
OT but funny as hell.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080224/ap_on_fe_st/odd_fat_cheerleaders
They even throw a dig at our own Kirby Puckett.
But DB, from yesterdays gossip, Gabby and Pavel have both said Hossa has no interest in MN?
Another Opinion, that is prety funny actually. The Manatees, that is too much. It sure is an interesting concept.
Sheppard is light years ahead of PMB in terms of development compaired to date.
And Shep will be playing at lower salary levels for the next few years too while PMB will be an UFA after next year.
Agreed Dave,
Also, has Gabby ever even said, “I want to play for the Wild my whole career” ???
Any time he is pressed, he gives the tried and true, “You never know whats going to happen in the future” crap.
Dave…He probably isn’t, but since the TSN guys are doing fantasy trades, figured I might as well chime in. I would give up PMB for that all Slovak line, but I’m not really expecting that to happen. PMB != Hossa.
Ice: Don’t believe everything you read. You should know that by now with some of the dregs we have in this media market. If Hossa isn’t moved in the next 4 hours, I think playing on a line centering Gabby and Demo would be more than enticing to him.
I can see Hossa downplaying Hossa’s interest in playing here so that we don’t think he’ll take less to do it just so that he can play with Gabby and Demo. That would be a good move on his part. If he doesn’t want to play here, I’ll bet it’s because Gabby’s been telling him that JL is a buzzkill because he’d make him play defense and stuff.
DP-
Um, Hossa’s a winger, not a center.
Chicago has put Khabibulin, Havlat, Lang, Ruutu, Lapointe, Perrault, Zyuzin, Bourque on the block.
I would not be opposed to Perrault, Bourque and/or Ruutu, but none of them would be a splashy move and would get SOME PEOPLE mad at DR for making just another depth move.
Salvador to Jersey appears to be done (Janssen going back to the Blues).
Also tsn saying Thrashers told Hossa not to go to the rink today.
or DB
Ruutu is exactly the kind of “former top pick re-tread” project the Wild have stocked up on to date.
Ruttu would be a real good pick up if he can stay healthy.
I like the idea of Robert Lang. What’s his FO%? Not a bad price at 4mil, and he is on the hook for next year so he would be more than just a rental.
Man, the Cowboy’s are really flying today!! It takes about 10 - 15 refreshes just to get a comment through.
If JL can move Demo to center, he can certainly move Hossa to Center, although Hossa’s faceoff percentage is only slightly better than my 7-yr-old’s.
Austin: plus I saw him make Zyuzin look like Bobby Orr the other night on a sick dish from behind the goal line.
Why is it we have nothing of interest to another team in Huston? Seems like the talent pool has dropped off now that guys like PMB, Koivu, and Burns have matured into solid players.
Plus if Benny is a bust now that’s two first round pick that’s haven’t panned out including O’Sullivan? Yikes
Also, has Gabby ever even said, “I want to play for the Wild my whole career” ???
Nope and I think the pursuit of Foppa and OJ is all about getting #10 a C well before the contract extension is discussed this summer.
oh man…Kirk Wise just swung the ‘04 draft door WIDE open for Deep Breath!
I just want Pavol out of the center position (so does Pavol)! So what are we going to say when we get the center that used to play for JL and is familiar with the system from ATL, Todd White!
Actually kj, if it wasn’t for the IR, Foy and Voros probably would have been called up and sent down numerous times. There just isn’t any room on the roster for call ups. Especially with 8 defenseman.
Also, when people comment there are no prospects in Houston they have to be referring to players that are ready to immediately produce in the NHL. A lot of these guys just turned 20 this season. Remember how much of a big deal it is for someone at Sheppard’s age to be an NHLer?
Pouliot - 21 last Sept
Clutterbuck - 20 last Nov
Olvecky - 22 last Oct
Kalus - 20 last June
Noreau - 20 last May
Stoner - 21 this month
Albers - 20 last Oct
In my opinion, all of those guys will be solid NHLers. I would think it is pretty irresponsible to say there is nothing in Houston.
Right now the Aeros would make the playoffs as the 4th seed in the North AND they have games in hand. Pretty good turn around from the worst team in the league a year ago.
So just relax people. I spend way more time watching the Aeros than Russo or any Florida scouts do. Sure, I don’t have the eye for talent like a scout does, but growing up in Minnesota, playing and watching hockey my entire life, I know how to call a spade a spade on the rink.
Wade Belak to Florida for a pick…Not big, but things are starting to break loose….
NiNY, I doubt the Wild will go for Lang, but what do you think it would take to pry him away??
B-B-B-Benny isn’t a bust by any means. Fla just doesn’t want him for whatever reason. Aaron in Houston says that the whole Aeros team looks a hell of a lot better than they did in September.
And someone correct me if I’m wrong but we could still trade Voloshenko’s negotiation rights, right?
Aaron: I would imagine there was an element of bargaining involved in the nameless scout saying we have no one of interest in Houston.
I like the Lang idea.
O’Sullivan is doing just fine in LA.
If scouts don’t like b-b-b-bozo, who IS there to like?
“Apparently other team’s NHL scouts think the cupboard is pretty bare in Houston. I tend to agree - which is why no one has been called up.”
This must be true! As I said yesterday, why hasn’t someone been called up to take the roster spot from Rado? I just don’t understand what he brings to the table. I would think if there was someone in Houston showing potential he would have been up here weeks or months ago and Rado would be gone.
How can a club that has been telling it’s fans for years that they are building a franchise from with in which is why they never trade for anyone (other then Demetra) and never sign any big free agents (other then maybe Johnsson) not have anything in the minors that anyone else wants. It seems to me we may have been duped.
I would hardly say that O’Sullivan didn’t pan out. He has been more than solid for LA this year and was one of the reasons we were able to land Demo. If you want an explanation as to why the entire NHL scouting family thinks the Wild is depleated in Houston, go back and look at the production we’ve recieved from our 2004 draft class. Those players would just now be rounding into NHL-level calibur, which could have been used as pieces to any trade-deadline puzzle. Cannot afford to have draft busts like that because, as we are seeing today, it will come back to bite you in the a$$.
At this point, I think Chicago is panicking and wants to get what value they can. Looking at Chicago’s roster, I’d offer Foy, Foster, Voros, a prospect (Olvecky or Voloshenko’s rights) and a pick for Lang, Ruuttu and Byfuglien.
Atta boy, Deep! Looks like there’s no rust on that old saw of yours, eh?!
chris - Radio plays about 14 minutes a game, you can’t give that much ice time to a 20 year old playing his 1st or 2nd of professional hockey.
Sheppard has been with the team all season and rarely sees even 10 minutes in a game. Radio is on a checking line, let is go already.
And here we go with DB and the draft!! Woo! Looks like NiNY called it.
I should clarify I meant Benny (potentially), and Sully not panning out with the Wild.
Belak to the Panthers, for a pick…
Soups to Sharks. Details to follow.
14 minutes of unproductive skating around is dead weight that should have been moved out long ago.
Actually Deep Breath, the two third round picks, Olvecky and Stoner, are starting to round into very nice players.
But you are right about Thelen in the 1st and Voloshenko in the 2nd.
Campbell to Sharks is very big for them…Makes the west MUCH tougher.
Also, for Radio to be sent down, he’d have to clear waivers. That offers up the potential of losing him for nothing in return. I would have been better to trade him away for a prospect or pick but with the way trades went this year…
Brian Campbell has been traded to the Sharks. Not sure who for yet.
Chris-Radio does the job that he is asked to do on this team and that’s to check. Just because no one from Houston has been brought up to take his place doesn’t mean they aren’t going to be good players. It really wouldn’t make much sense to bring up one of the skill guys and have him not get much playing time.
With Belak going to the Panthers it doesn’t seem likely that OJ will be moved, unless some team is looking to get fleeced. Don’t know why you would bring in “muscle” if you’re gonna move one of your top offensive weapons.
Radio is Slovakian. Maybe something to do with keeping Gaborik happy???
How would you like to be a Sabres fan ?
I was just going to say that, shanechurla27. It sucks to be them.
Screw that, how would you like to be a Wild fan?
Campbell to SJ is a pretty good move… I guess it depends on who they gave up though…
It would really suck to be a Sabres’ fan right now…
Nothing at Houston?! All we have heard from this team is how they would not “mortgage the future” for the present. Keeping draft picks and trading only one young player of consequence in its existance how can the cupboard be bare in Houston? Looks like they are blowing most of their draft picks anyway, make a move!
Bernier and a 1st-rounder was the price for Campbell
Radio does not make Gaborik as happy as Demitra. Heck, even Holik would make Gaborik more happy than Radio, I believe.
Demitra is the key to Gaborik.
DB -
Can you name 9(30% of the league) teams who actually did well in that ‘04 draft you keep going back to?
AO and Malkin were the only studs(Mike Green, too, maybe) then it’s Radulov, Wolski, Meszaros, and Zajac. That’s about it.
Get over it, the Wild are not the only ones with a bad ‘04 draft.
Sharks give up Steve Bernier and a 1st.
Lou Nanne would have made a deal by now, maybe not a good one but at least he would have tried.
At least Buffalo got something for one of their players (as opposed to, say, Drury who they let go as an UFA for nothing)…
Sorry, Goalieguy. Hit “enter” and then saw that you’d scooped me.
Looks like a solid move for SJ.
TSN saying the Richards-to-Dallas deal is agreed on, now it’s up to Richards to waive his no-trade….And the West gets tougher and tougher…
Sounds like Tampa is now asking Richards to waive his NTC to go to Dallas….
scott, we hav eno idea what DR is TRYING to do. I would rather him make the RIGHT move rather than just making a move to appease us.
The Dallas-Tampa trade seems to be a good one for both teams.
Well, it seems everyone here that hasn’t seen an Aeros game this year is convinced it is a junk team with junk players so I’M DONE trying to convince you otherwise.
From now on all your Aeros updates will be from Russo, a guy that hasn’t seen an Aeros game in person all season. Have fun with that!
i know austin, that was just a little run down sweet lou trade memories.
Richard’s waived his NT clause and now with Dallas.
Richards deal done….We’re quickly becoming the 5th or 6th-best team in the West.
Eddie: When other NHL scouts are commenting on there “being nothing there” in terms of our minor league affiliate, you have to ask why? The ‘04 draft is why and our top pick in ‘05, Benny, whom nobody seemingly wants and whom cannot find ice team with the big club despite the likes of Foy, Voros, Radio, etc, being on the roster, not to mention the questions that have been raised about his attitude. A complete bust of a draft class will haunt a team, which is what we’re seeing now with the Wild.
Instead of trading players I think DR should be trying to trade conferences.
He’d have more luck with that.
don’t let the trolls get to you AiH. Your insight into the Houston club has been valued here.
All things considered, I’d say the sabres did pretty well in the Soup deal.
I, for one, really appreciate the insight you provide on Aeros hockey, AiH. I can’t watch them. Please don’t stop providing updates.
I hope Riser charged up his cell phone….
Mike Smith and Jussi Jokinnen to Tampa for Richards
Risebrough, sell…sell….sell…..
Aaron…we trust you. But when NHL scouts are saying there isn’t anything there that interests them, what does that tell you?
Aaron in Houston: It’s obvious that the Aeros are not junk. The lack of information on them here (in Minnesota) is the problem. I don’t think the Aeros’ roster will be set until the trade deadline…someone will need someone the Aeros have…
Geez… we are so done for now even if we made the playoffs.
The way this day is going, the cherry on the parfait will be the news that the Nucks have acquired OJ and the Flames have acquired Hossa
AiH…I agree with Dave, I really appreciate your input on the Aeros. Please keep it up.
AiH, I believe you, please stay and give us updates. Don’t listen to these clowns that will only listen to the media. I thnk you provide valuable insight.
AiH: walk it off, man. It’s trade deadline day and they’re coming out of the woodwork.
Any card-carrying Russotan appreciates your Houston input whenever you can provide it.
The Wild pretty much have to either get OJ or Fedorov + Holik to make a run at this point.
I feel bad for Mike Smith…a good young talent getting sent to a goaltender’s graveyard
DB -
You still didn’t answer my question.
Who in ‘04 did well?
Or better yet, who should we have taken?
The whole ‘04 draft was weak at best.
Chris- Greg is right. Branko is out there for the same reason Veillieux is out there. Thats why they are linemates. He’s a grinder and he does the job. Branko is not going anywhere. He does his job, which is good for the Wild, and his stats are too low for another team to want him, which could be taken as a mixed blessing. He plays the shutdown role and also plays on the PK line. I’m tired of people whining about players they perceive as “dead weight” because they don’t score goals. A team absolutely full of skill players gets busted up pretty badly in the West, as the Wild have shown in recent months and years. You need players to fill roles. Thats what gives a team depth. Branko fills the role JL assigns him. Thats why they didn’t trade him in November, thats why they don’t send him to the minors, thats why they PROBABLY (although I emphasize probably) won’t send him anywhere today.
I still say that PMB is a guy you can put as the “main course” for a trade. Especially to the West. A comment was made that he is afraid to go in and get the tough goals, and this is absolutely true. He has about the toughness of a piece of wet bologna out on the ice, and, lets face it, he’s small. You can’t count the number of times that even an average sized player tosses him around on the ice. He’d fair much better in the East, where the “pretty” goals are still being scored.
Now the question for Wild fans is: How many of the newbie TBL players will be in uniform tomorrow night when the Wild come a-callin’ at the Forum in Tampa Bay?
Wafer…I am afraid I am seeing the Wild’s playoff life flash before my eyes…
Even though he is an SCSU fan, I appreciate the Aeros insight AiH brings. Also, as someone said, FLA scouts (if thats who it was) have a vested interest in down playing the Aeros.
I am a big wild fan, atleast i follow them as much as i can.
I completely agree that we should not trade bouchard.
but since i do not know much about the wild minor league system, do we really have many other options?
sheppard, voros?? do we have any other interesting kids? perhaps foy?
Huet to Washington for a 2nd-round pick…
WRT: Tampa Bay aquired Mike Smith for the game against the Wild, he’s had our number.
But compounded with the fact that our top pick isn’t gaining love from the big club or from other clubs, it turns into a cumulative affect which could be the result of some serious shakeup this summer. Wild can’t make a move today to improve because “the cupboard is bare” according to NHL scouts; hence, players like Demo don’t want to resign this summer and goes elsewhere which in turn leads to Gabby wanting out. It’s all a domino affect which results from having no one from the ‘04 draft or the top pick in ‘05 that other teams want.
rogue beat me to it
Huet? From the Canadiens? Maybe they are making a little room for a bigger trade?
Let the Carey Price era begin……
paulr, disagree on PMB. He’s playing with a lot more grit than he used to and I could easily see him as a Theo Fleury-type player, without being a boozehound.
And all is not lost, I do think that even with Dallas loading up that the Wild are in a position that they’ll have to play Detroit, Anaheim, OR Dallas, not all three or even two of them, so I’m not too concerned with Dallas’ move.
Sorry… I meant to the East as far as a PMB trade on my last comment.
Huet to Washington for a 2nd-round pick…
Wow, why would the Habs do that?
Price is good and all, but…..Wow.
Habs look like they may be making room to add a Hossa!
Eddie I was thinking the same thing about Huet. Like I said, they might be making a bit of space for a much bigger deal.
How are you guyus getting these scoops so fast??
I know Kolzig is an UFA after this year, could he be dealt today?
Oh no some other teams got some decent players we better just end our season. Give me a freaking break the Wild are a hot goalie away from winning the cup, 8 or 10 other teams might be in the same boat but thts just the reality of being a hockey fan.
The bigger question is will Huet play tonight?
DB -
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2004_NHL_Entry_Draft
Check it out and answer my question:
Can you name 9(30% of the league) teams who actually did well in that ‘04 draft you keep going back to?
ok, with the few moves made, and the sky falling in russoville, would a trade for OJ even help?
Goalie guy - I’m not sure we were that high to begin with! o.O
ATX - streaming audio from Trade Center on TSN. Has all the dudes talking and breaking the info real time…it’s exciting….
Brad Richards and Johan Homqvist to the Dallas Stars for Jeff Halpern, Mike Smith, Jussi Jokinen.
Why is it we have to compare what other teams did? That’s like the argument “We’re better off than Columbus and we came into the League at the same time” Who cares? If we would have viable prospects in Houston, we could improve a team that is on the verge of a major shakeup this summer. I don’t care if Buffalo had a crap ‘04 draft, we can’t trade their prospects to get a top center in our lockerroom.
When Branko was brought up a couple of years ago he was supposed to be this tenacious fore-checker (Veillieux for- checks very well!) But Branko does not even do that. I never said anything specifically about Branko’s inability to score goals (although since you brought it up…) What I said is he doesn’t really play any role well, he is not a great-fore checker, he is not a guy that hits people, and as mentioned he doesn’t score.
I am not advocating that he be shipped away in a trade today (as stated above I don’t think we would get anything for him) I’m saying he should have been moved long ago.
PMB + Foster + Harding + 2nd + 3rd = OJ, Mezei, Plante (goalie to balance things out)
??
AO and Malkin were the only studs(Mike Green, too, maybe) then it’s Radulov, Wolski, Meszaros, and Zajac. That’s about it.
Umm,
Radulov - 63 games played this season
Wolski - 62 games
Meszaros - 63 games
Zajac - 63 games
Thelen - 0 games
Voloshenko - 0 games
Olveky - 0 games
Stoner - 0 games
So your point was?
ATx: I’m watching ‘TSN TradeCentre’ on NHL Network…Carey Price will start tonight vs. Atlanta at Bell Centre…and yes, Adam, Olie the Goalie could be dealt today if he is an UFA at the end of the year…
Damn, I wish I had a sound card in my PC. I am supposed to be getting a new one installed today, but IT won’t put it in till after this is all over for sure.
Mike Grimes. I am with you man. Good moves out here in the West already, but that doesn’t mean the end of the season for the Wild.
Not having a NHL player ready for the NHL is not the same as having a bare cupboard down there.
ATX, you are often a voice of reason, I appreciate your comments too.
Friends and neighbors, can you imagine if the trade deadline seems agitating for us what it must be like for guys like Foster and PMB?
And, Paull, your comments are the essence of putting together a team isn’t it? Frankly, I would not bet against Radio being the last of this crop of Slovak’s to be a Wild player.
Only two hours left, right?
Wafer - PMB, even with his “grit” is about as tough as a snotty Kleenex. Gabby, our most reknown “skill player” show fight and will not just back down from someone and doesn’t get thrown around on the ice. I can see what you’re saying though. All I’m saying is that his style more suits the way they play in the East. Stickhandling fanciness. I just don’t see his durability showing through in the West. I’m not trying to get down on the guy, he’s a good player, but his talents just don’t show through, at least to me, when he’s in a Wild sweater.
Ice: If Radio is the last of the Wild Slovaks, this team could be in for a world of Burtuzzi….
Sunshine: 2 pm cst (3 hours left)
I am sorry 3 hours left, I was thinking I was in EST instead of CST.
NiNY - You’re the bartender around these parts. For the love of Gretzky, fill the glasses up to the top! Everyone’s glass is half empty in here today.
The next 3 hours are going to be brutal around here…
Thanks iceman!
sunshine, I think there are three hours left. 3pm eastern time I think yeah?
Meszaros:
Year GP G A P +/- PIM shots SH%
2007-08 63 9 19 28 +14 46 116 7.76
2006-07 82 7 28 35 -15 102 147 4.76
2005-06 82 10 29 39 +34 61 137 7.30
I’d take him.
sunshine-3 hours left.
Caps robbed Les Habs with only dealing a 2nd round pick for Huet! He’s worth more than that. Then again the Wild gave up Johan Holmqvist for nothing, just let him go from Houston or was it Cleveland then?
has anyone heard anything about the Wild even being involved in any talks so far today for anyone?
White Russian’s around the bar ON ME! The Dude abides!
The Habs had to move a goalie, they had Huet, Price and Halak. I’ve seen both Price and Halak in the AHL and they are solid!
Keep in mind concerning the Panthers comments on the Aeros that they are not going to act eager or excited about anything they are interested in. If you were trading for something wouldn’t you want to downplay the value?
Today is likely a travel day for the Aeros (headed to Cleveland), so there won’t be much information about players missing from the ice.
Goody says:
February 26th, 2008 at 11:00 am
AO and Malkin were the only studs(Mike Green, too, maybe) then it’s Radulov, Wolski, Meszaros, and Zajac. That’s about it.
Umm,
Radulov - 63 games played this season
Wolski - 62 games
Meszaros - 63 games
Zajac - 63 games
Thelen - 0 games
Voloshenko - 0 games
Olveky - 0 games
Stoner - 0 games
So your point was?
My point is: You can’t make sugar out of $hit.
The Wild had a bad ‘04 draft as well as everybody else who didn’t pick up an AO or Malkin.
In layman’s terms: The whole damn ‘04 draft was a wash.
You can’t see the forest if your hiding in the trees.
Welcome back Aaron. Thanks for the updates from Houston.
I love Trade Deadline day, everyone’s so grounded.
I hope we make a good move but if we don’t I think we’re still in a good position. The teams who are aquiring people aren’t doing it for free.
The team that wins the cup will become the model for next year just like Anaheim was last year. This is a trendy league in that way and there is something to be said for patience.
That Huet trade’s the big shocker so far if you ask me. I know they’re high on Price, but I’m not sure he’s ready to carry an NHL team yet.
Paul S - I’ve been listening for the last few hours and not one word about our beloved Wild.
If the Wild are indeed going to do nothing, I hope they have the foresight to send Rolston somewhere to get something in return. Can’t imagine the team would be able to sign he and Demo to extensions this summer, in addition to inking Gabby to his 7-yr, $52.5 million deal.
Kevin, I agree. That may be the lone thing that kills their SCP chances. Maybe not though… you never know what else they may have in the works.
Thanks Jim! I hope something gets done.
Yeah, I’m thinking they’ve got to have another move up their sleeves. I sorta would’ve thought that might be announced at the same time, so they make sure they get an agreement on the other if they’re trying to bring in a goalie.
Rogue…the problem is, if the Wild are ‘building’ for next year, they have 8 UFAs to try to resign.
If a bold move were to happen on Deadline Day, this would be the one.
Unless DR and JL don’t think we’re close enough…
Chris - Branko fills his role. That he was “supposed as a tenacious forechecker” when he was signed is exactly why I don’t believe any hype about any player. What a player does on the ice is proof of what he brings to the table. Branko takes probably the shortest shifts of any Wild player on the bench. Why? His legs are moving. He may not check like Veillieux, but he chases and pokes and chases some more. Forechecking is not only putting big hits on people. He is good at the role he plays. We just need to look at roles of hockey players in more than terms of “scorer” and “checker” because there are hundreds of individual styles being played in the NHL by hundreds of individual players.
The Wild had a bad ‘04 draft as well as everybody else who didn’t pick up an AO or Malkin.
I wouldn’t say that the teams who drafted the players you listed had such a bad draft. Sure, those players may not be lighting the lamp every night or appearing in NHL commercials but they are regular, serviceable NHL players.
paulr, I think the issue with Radio is the fact that he OFTEN finds himself with a fantastic scoring chance (due to his tenacious forechecking etc.) and he just can’t finish it. I think Brako does a great job at “moving his feet” and forechecking, he just can’t finish when he is standing two feet from the net with the puck on his tape.
Mmm, that sounds really good right now, ATX! I’ll take one!
What about moving Demo? There’d be demand for him too. If he really doesn’t like playing C in this system, and we’re not going to be able to get a big name to play between him and Gabby, odds are that he won’t resign.
If that’s the case, deal him now rather than lose him in a few months. Rolston makes more money for the team than Demo does.
Sorry if this is old news, but I just saw it. Comrie reupped with the Isles for one more year, so he is likely off the block. With all the butt-kissing comments from Snow, I can’t see him signing him and then dealing him, but it may have been done to facilitate a trade???
kj…actually thats my point, its just as important in my mind to think about those UFA’s as it is about a possible OJ or someone.
If Gabby wants another person to make him happy and keep him here, when does that end? Wasn’t that what Demo was for?
Ruslan Salei from Florida to Colorado for Karlis Skrastins and a 3rd rounder…
who are the Wild’s UFAs after this year?
AustinTXwildFan - That I can agree with.
I agree Deep Breath, it might be time to get future value for Rolston or Demitra. With the Campbell and Richards trades, Anaheim pulling All-Stars off the shelf and a potentially healthy Red Wings team it is going to be unbelievably tough to compete in the Western Conference Playoffs.
There are 4 elite teams shaping up in the top of the West. Maybe it is time to sell?
Andrew Ladd (04 draft) Canes for T. Ruutu Hawks
Ruutu just traded to the Hurricanes
If Gabby wants another person to make him happy and keep him here, when does that end? Wasn’t that what Demo was for?
That is some of the fuel for my #10 for OJ+ speculation. As I said before, that frees DR to let Demitra go this summer and sign the impending free agents.
I know I make a lot of sense paulr… 
Voloshenko is really lighting it up in Russia (1 assist in 16 gp according to hockeydb.com). I reckon he doesn’t have much value.
I just keep picturing DR saying “The Isles, Thrashers and Predators all stocked up last year and none of them made it any farther in the playoffs than we did.”
trading rolston or demitra is telling everyone that you don’t expect to make the playoffs. that would not be good.
I like it Goody…
DB - I said before: Roston to Ottawa for Vermette. Just don’t tell Ottawa of Rolston’s Huggy Bear rep.
Look at the elite teams. Between Detroit, Dallas, and Anaheim they get scoring from the blue line, and scoring from 3rd, and 4th line guys. You can’t win consistently with only 4 guys carrying load scoring. Especially when they are inconsistent.
I just get sick of people getting down on Branko. He’s not there to score. He does blow chances, but they have to remember that its not his “primary objective.” Thats what I’m getting at. A player doesn’t absolutely suck, if he just because he doesn’t score a lot of goals. Thats what I’m getting at.
Fla is getting ready to trade a D-man. My guess is the Wild are getting OJ and Mezei in the deal.
Ruutu for Ladd: a trade of ex-top 10 picks. TSN says the Sens were interested in Ladd…
Wafer…I’d make that deal in a heartbeat. Which is why Ottawa won’t…
Green*…is it time to sell?
paulr, we wouldn’t be satisfied with a team full of gretsky’s here.
Anyone know where I can get a list of the Wild’s UFAs after this season?
So true Greenstar, Gretsky wasn’t that good anyway…
TSN is reporting Salei to Avs, not sure what in return to Panthers
Green*, talk about a soft team and I don’t know how good Gretzky would be in net.
If the Sens would do Vermette for Rolston straight up, we might as well ask for Heatly for Voros while we’re at it.
Avs get D Ruslan Salei from Panthers for D Karlis Skrastins and 3rd round pick
kb - nhlnumbers has it, but it’s down at the moment.
Here’s a list:
UFA:
Demitra
Rolston
Radio
Fedoruk
Carney
Hill
Nummelin
RFA:
Bouchard
SRV
Foy
Voros
Foster
Sharks get Campbell from Buf-Bernier and a 1st
DR can make a trade, which is what the media wants but because the other west teams did as well, he’s f*kked. he can stand pat because he doesn’t went to give up any talent for player that might not get us past 1st round anyway, f*kked. He could sell, and when was the last time a playoff team sold, and he is f*kked for not trying.
Gretsky passes to Gretsky who drops to Gretsky. Gretsky shoots, rebound, Gretsky drives it home!
Would make D&D’s jobs a lot easier. It might, might make them easier to listen to.
lol @ Goody. I think D&D could find a way to mess that up.
Sens have said Vermette is on the table, for the right rental player. I can dream that Ottawa’s GM comes down with an unspeakable case of Montezuma’s Revenge and DR has the last bottle of Immodium in the city.
Can’t I?
Not to pick nits, but #99 has always gone by the name of GretZky. No “s” in HIS name.
Green*…are you saying that DR is f*kked? I am not sure of your point…
Salei is a bit of an upgrade for Avs. Ruutu for Ladd seems like just moving bodies.
Z you say? Hmmm, maybe that’s why ATX is laughing @ rather than w/?
G* has it right. Someone’s going to be unhappy no matter what.
Not to pick nits, but #99 has always gone by the name of GretZky
I STB that one. my bad.
you bet kj, DR in no win situation which makes me think nothing will happen.
Goody, I would never laugh as someone that misspells stuff… wait a second… yeah I would. I definitely would.
Reports are Foote wont re-sign with Columbus, but does not want to be traded unless it is to Colorado
Green*…given what has gone down today in the West, I agree.
Well sounds to me like Foote has a case of the crybabies.
Latest rumors: Lang just got pulled off the ice; Foote contract negotiations with Columbus falling through, but the only place he wants to go to is Colorado.
Lapointe to Ottawa.
The only time you can say if a GM is an idiot or a genius is at the end of your team’s season.
I will say this, though, DR has to do SOMETHING.
Green* - your note cleared it all up for me. Dallas, SJ, the Avs all went into the restaurant and ordered off the menu. DR is at the drive-thru window. You know what happens at the drive-thru? To quote Joe Pesci, “They f*** you in the drive-thru. They know you are drivng away and aren’t coming back, so they f*** you in the drive-thru.”
Martin Lapointe to Ottawa from Chicago
thanks Wafer. Thats not as bad as I’d feared, though certainly not good.
Ottawa sends a 6th round pick for Lapointe…
Lang pulled off the ice in CHI (along with Lapointe who WRT pointed out went to the Sens)
Lang to Wild for Matt Foy. You heard it here first
A 6th round pick for LaPointe?? That sounds like a deal.
DR probably turned off his cell and Blackberry, got into an elevator, pulled the emergency stop button and is going to sit there until 2:01 our time and then say ‘I was trapped in an elevator, that’s why we couldn’t make a deal’!
Forsberg signs with the Avs! …hehehe
Stars-TB deal looks good for both sides. Stars get a stud-TB couldn’t afford him but finally get a goalie and 2 very solid players neither of whom are great scorers.
remember when Panger was just a fully intact Scott Hamilton as a hockey analyst?
He’s really improved as far as having interesting things to say - without losing his excitement.
LOL Wafer…
2 words…fished in!!!
I agree, AinTX. Are you telling me WE wouldn’t give up a 6th-rounder for a leader like Lapointe? Sick.
WHAT?!?!?!? Forsberg to Avs, ugh. When did that happen??
Some teams I think are just clearing cap space (Montreal, Tampa Bay, Chicago) for the future…
DR “can you hear me now” good post Gato.
I hope we’re getting Lang. I would be happy with that if the price was right.
Wild’s UFA here:
http://www.nhlscap.com/capnumbers/minnesota.htm
Greg, Lang would be a good addition IMO.
I want to go to lunch.. but I can;t pry myself away from this!!
Colorado needs to sign Tanguay and then bring Roy out of retirement…gettin’ the team back together, eh?
The way things are going today, Lang will go to either the Flames or Nucks for a 13th round draft pick
Boy, Soupy is just about crying on his interview. It’s sad…
Trade for Tanguay is what I meant.
Boy, if the Wild can’t beat an trade ravenged Panthers and Lightning team then it is time to officially hit the panic button.
What would Lang cost? 3rd rounder? I’d do
that.
And as long as DR finds a way to trade Foster for someone willing to hit, I’ll be happy.
Jim Carr, who is Soupy?
DeepBreath, it does seem that way so far. Maybe we chould offer a 12th round pick to trump the competition eh?
If DR wants to resign Gabby, shouldn’t he try to make a run for the playoffs this season to show Gabby that we’re committed to winning a cup here?
Boy, there is a whole plate-full of nothing getting done right now in offices all throughout Russoville
scuttlebutt of DR going to Maple Leafs as g.m, maybe he’s already there g.m Yikes !!
Campbell from Buf
Hmmm.. I invented a new word… chould.
Sirius radio owners,
CBC HNIC live trade coverage on Ch. 126 noon till 3(CT), then Ch. 122 from 3pm on.
Or maybe Gabby should be a little more consistent and show HE’s willing to win a cup here, instead of scoring 5 one night and disappearing the next 4 nights.
DB-I have been completly worthless today.
NiNY: Actually if you look at it, not only did those three teams not make it past the first round, they don’t seem to be in the playoff hunt this year. I wonder if their rent-a-player idea hurt their near prospects for this year. In fact, it would be interesting to see how the teams they traded with are doing this year.
Ugh, my head hurts from thinking all of that.
I am very impressed with the resources TSN has made available for the deadline today. Especially for those of us who can’t watch the network on TV.
Thanks Carr.
“Man, I’ve never seen so many Cowboy’s in all my life.”
“Lord knows I have.”
Ryan P., SHouldn’t Gabby play hard hard every game to show DR he’s committed to winning a cup? Just sayin’…
I can’t access much of anything, so you guys are the best source. Thanks.
Niveous: I’ve seen several articles floating around places saying that making a big move isn’t necessarily going to help for any playoff run. And as you pointed out, it could hurt the future, particularly for a rent-a-player.
I’m contemplating giving back my $7 net after taxes for today’s non-work….
Blast you EL Gato!!!!
whats the deadline today?
DB - It is the flashes of brilliance that we will show after 2:00 that allow us to get by with doing not-a-damn-thing right now…
kb, it’s 2PM central.
What do ya’ll think the chances are the Wild actually make a move in the next 2 hours? Id give it 20%. Until Minnesota fans demand more than mediocrity we will never land and keep the big names to sustain success.
there are a lot of centers rated in the top 30 for the supposed talent rich ‘08 entry draft - why not dangle Gillies as one of the prospects for OJ?
If they can cancel practice for trade deadline day….Why should we have to work?
atleast the vikings made a big time blockbuster of a trade today..
DR needs to get something done
All this talk of no work getting done, try studying for 2 tests, impossible
Niv: the evidence would seem to support that. It would be VERY easy for DR to use that as his fall-back position if/when he doesn’t do anything today.
He’s already gone on record with that sentiment to Don Russo I believe.
Sigh. I think I wouldn’t mind seeing Foote in Pittsburgh… but no, go to Colorado, which isn’t even in a playoff spot, why go to Pittsburgh and play with Crosby and Malkin and the like… ugh. I’ve always hated Foote and this increases to the hatred.
The Wild will make a move - I’m still guessing and secretly hoping for Holik and McCarthy from Atlanta. Send Foster to Vancouver for a bucket of pucks.
Twill - Who are these Vikings you speak of?
I just got a email replay from a buddy, he is a converted Avs fan:
“Honestly, I’m so used to growing up in Minnesota where the teams RARELY make a big move to help their teams make a run, that it’s kind of nice to see the Avs acting careless and going for it. Even if they fall flat on their faces, I like the effort.”
The last thing we need is another soft european floater.
Remember, not 1 Stanley cup champion team has been LED buy a euro star:
Don’t give me Detroit…. They had Yzerman and Shanny.
We have seen SJ/Dal/Colorado get much better. Let’s face it, we are going to need to retool this summer. If we trade today its not to make a run, but to get better for next year. We will make the playoffs, but probably lose in the 1st round.
I think it would be prudent to trade either Rolston or Demitra for younger talent at this point…. NOT picks, younger talent under contract. I like the Vermette idea
man, do I feel sorry for the students in my lab section right now. Good thing all I had to do was hand out a worksheet and answer the occasional question, the sports rube within is going against better judgement
I agree wafer!
Adam Foote to the Avalanche official
I think, if anything, you will see the Wild swap crap for crap, try to make a slight upgrade somewhere. At this point, I think what has been done in the West, has completely made DR sh!t his pants as far as this year in the playoffs go and he won’t be willing to bring a player in, because, Gretzky forbid, you actually have to give up something to get something.
OMG: totally off the subject, but I LOVE that USA Hockey commercial with the little girl in the supermarket telling her mom to start a fight.
This is the State of Hockey afterall. I think we should get a state holiday for the trade deadline, draft day, first day of the season and every player’s birthday.
I’d like to caution people that say we’ll make the playoffs this year, the playoffs are not a guarantee this year. We’re only a few points from being OUT of the playoffs. Teams like the Avs just got a whole lot better.
I’m surprised we haven’t seen anything yet and haven’t heard OJ’s name at all on the stream from TSN. Weird… Something brewing perhaps?
I dont think you could get a bucket of pucks for Foster unless you include Radio, that would be a deal!
I am late into this line and I did not read the other 279 comments (funny thing about work, they want you do some)so bare with me if I am repeating something.
Do you really think anyone wants Sheppard? He is young and they have to keep him I assume since we cann’t send him to Houston. Just my thought, now my wish HOSSA! A girl can dream.
Wow the AVS really are putting together the old team… when will Roy come out of retirement?
Russo, start a new thread.
DB - DR might trade crap for crap and try to put icing on it and call it cake, but he won’t trade the future of the franchise for one player.
They want to relive 2003, except we won’t be there to oblige them.
i wouldnt mind picking up lang but how about havlat instead, although injury prone the guy can flat out play
Deep: counterpoint here.
Wouldn’t everyone else giving up some youth/picks for guys this year make it EASIER for DR to do the same in the sense that he wouldn’t necessarily be putting his team BEHIND those others in terms of overall development?
Foote back to Colorado
Goody: I want the NHL schedule release day as a state occasion!!
Avs get Foote, wow, they are making their stand this year.
I can’t believe that we will sit this out entirely. I really get the feeling they are working an OJ deal. I don’t know enough to say who we will have to give up but it just feels like a deal is in the works.
Foote back to the Avs, what next…are Roy and Bourque coming out of retirement?
Sounds like the Avs may get Blake too. Craziness!
Lang to Wild for a 3rd rounder and Foy. I have foreseen it. (kj isn’t the only one who can do that you know)
Given all these old-new moves, I should make some calls and get #66 out of retirement…
Quick poll while we wait for nothing to happen on DR 2:05 spin.
A. “We feel we have the talent to get to the cup right here”
B. “We didn’t want to steal the spotlight from the Vikings on the day of their big trade”
C. “I left a bunch of voicemails, but I never heard anything back”
D. “All it takes is for one goalie to get hot in the playoffs, and we have two pretty good ones.”
E. (Submit your own answer
No word from Anaheim yet?? Or Vancouver?? WTF?
TSN has gone all-Jokinen saying the West has become an ‘arms race’ and that what are some Western teams waiting for?
(Hello, DR?)
Does Colorado want Skoula back ?
E. We like to promote within.
jemmack - see my 11:40 comment as my E submission.
Anaheim needs nothing… they are good to go. Vancouver has nothing to offer, they tried with Richards and lost. Detroit is in trouble
Anaheim is right up against the cap, I don’t see them making any moves today.
Colorado is making rumblings, but I’m surprised to see Vancouver and Calgary standing pat.
Gilbert Brule is in play? That’s an interesting name.
Can I go with F. All of the above!
If Jokinen goes anywhere, he’ll end up in Montreal or Calgary
Wafer, and we all know how well kj’s crystal ball worked out.
jenmack, I say option C. Or it could be a “Boom shalaka! I got OJ for peanuts yo!! haha!”… or maybe not.
I think pauls wins!
I say Jokinen stays put, no one gets him. Montreal could have moved Huet to get Hossa and Lehtonen or Hossa and Hedberg meaning Wild could now go for Holik.
Considering ANA, VAN, CGY and MIN have all been quite along with OJ news, maybe something is brewing there.
I wasn’t too concerned about COL picking up Forsberg, but now that they have addressed the blue line with Salei and Foote I’m officially concerned.
a 1st round pick for Foote? That seems expensive
Columbus is in the middle of a fire sale. Peca and Federov are probably going to be on the move you would think?
I’m no DR apologist, but it would also be very easy for him to say something to the effect of “well, I go out and get a guy in free agency - paying what the market dictated - and I get slammed for it. Now, I try to act with the team’s future in mind by not over-paying for a rental, and I get slammed for that too. You can’t have your cake and eat it too.”
Maybe Foote wants to end his career there, turn into Colorado’s Chelios.
I think Hossa has to go before Jokinen since he’s an UFA at the end of the year. His price will set OJ’s.
I feel guilty about being at work and doing almost nothing, but I can’t tear myself away for the half hour it takes to get home.
NiNY, I agree. I don’t blame DR, I blame the market!
AiH, there is some concern to be had with CO for sure. The just upgraded nicely.
Fedorov has been traded to the Capitals. There goes another one off the board. DR is wasting precious time.
Fedorov to the Caps…unconfirmed.
Even if you assume that all of the older Col retreads are still difference makers, are the Avs anything more than a 1 or 2 round playoff team? I find it odd they are hitting the mkt so hard, given the teams lack of any consistency this year. Maybe they figure they would have been elite if not for the injuries.
Chris, I forgot that vintage standby. I might have to go with yours…
Or how about:
D. “I really wanted to stick it to the bloggers and ranters out there this year, whatever that means”
Fedorov to Washington.
Federov to Caps!! We could have had him for a pick! That’s discouraging.
NiNY, he gets slammed because he brought the guy in saying he was going to provide an offensive spark from the blue line and 1 year later says we signed him as a veteran D presence with no mention of offense.
I’m still hoping for Lang from Chicago, or possibly Peca.
Fedorov to Washington
AiH - I feel like a broken record, but I’d love to see the Wild pick up Fedorov for a 2nd or 3rd rounder and Holik for a 4th.
Russian Mafia is assembling in the nation’s capital.
WOW F*** THIS COWBOY NONSENSE!
colorado is going “all in” what is their average age, 39?
hmmm DR lets go
Damn, no Federov… so cheap too… Damnit DR LOWBALL em’!! IT’s obviously working for eveyone else.
DAMMIT.
El Gato: 100% agree…I’ve said that myself. But that doesn’t mean he thinks of it like that. That’s all I’m saying.
Im getting mad it Risebrough. Mad.
I think to fully sit this out sends the signal that the Wild are not trying to win. In light of the moves made today within our division and our conference, I don’t think that the team can afford to send that message. He must make a move and I think he is going to make a big one, no longer just a Federov type deal (although I would like that) because of what has already transpired.
I think OJ is coming, whether that is good or not. He is sort of the present and the future when you consider he is signed for two more years and at a relatively friendly 5 million per I believe.
A nice 48 hours for Mr. Giguere and the Avalanche. Picking up Peter Forsberg, Adam Foote and Ruslan Salei.
Wow..
Colorado wants to have more old-timers to go on IR this year
Lang Peca or Holik.
OJ for Rolston and 1st and 2nd in 09
Bottom line is when the day is done DR has to do something to address the depth issue at center.
Maybe they’ll just call up Payer.
I’m Happy, I believe you are corect with your belief of 5mil per. I am just really afraid of what OJ is going to cost.
Hey Russo, please tell DR that I really appreciate him saving me all that money on playoff tickets this year.
The Caps are getting quite a stock-pile of picks!
DR would rather give up a limb than trade 2 first-round picks.
DR could get that deal done for Federov, he was on hold with Comcast, he has a question about his cable bill he needs to take care of 1st.
Claire - I now hang my hopes on Lang and Holik. Get some Czechs in to piss off the Slovaks
You mean the Jackets Gunslinger?
I mean a 1st and a 2nd.
OT: Wigge on Rolston.
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=354776
Apologies for my oh-so-certain Federov call. no joy in mudville today.
I meant couldn’t.
ATX - my bad… yes the Jackets
hey.. this time I AM a cowboy!
He must make a move and I think he is going to make a big one, no longer just a Federov type deal (although I would like that) because of what has already transpired.
I tend to agree and with ATX that the cost might be huge.
I want to like Brian Burke, I really do. A Minnesota high school player who’s had success in the NHL, and he should be my kind of guy. But - as he’s demonstrating in this interview currently on NHL Network - he’s just an insufferable pr**k.
Federov to the Caps…damn.
Why do we have to get just a “rental”. Far as I know, Richards has an existing contract; far as aI know, OJ has an existing contract. That’s a weak argument if DR rolls it out.
Anaheim confirmed they are not interested in OJ and Hossa. Looks like the Wild still are in the hunt.
Agreed, Goalieguy.
Brian Burke on TradeCentre right now - he makes a good point - it is important to evaluate each trade in terms of value instead of being reactive to what other GMs have done so far today.
Maybe Florida is really putting the screws to DR and he is keeping cool.
assuming y’all mean federov went for 1st and 2nd round pick. I think I’d pass.
Okay I am freaking starving.. I gotta go get some lunch. Make sure nothing happens while I am gone!
Who in the name of Herb Brooks is Ted Ruth?
Goalieguy: I was actually just thinking that, despite his thorny personae, I like him more and more. There’s no doubt he does very well by his team.
One thing though, if you don’t like him, you can always fall back on the fact that he was BORN in Rhode Island, not Minnesota.
Fedorov for a prospect!?
I am so afraid that this club will do NOTHING. NOTHING. This is going to suck so-o-o bad…I might be able to agree with DR eventually but I sit here watching NHL Network and almost screaming for ‘DR! DO SOMETHING!!!
I’ll echo Cowboy..
Fedorov for a prospect!?!
The Capitals obviously learned nothing from the Redsox and will for the rest of time have to deal with the curse of Ted Ruth! Very foolish!
Hats off to the Wild for providing the TSN feed. I myself and am watching on TV… A Canadian dish… the only way to follow hockey!
Yeah, I’d really be concerned about the Avs. It’s likely that they can eliminate us from the playoff picture. With Sakic, Smyth and Stasny returning they are going to be good. I don’t think they really gave much up to gain what they did.
So does this mean Brett Hull won the strategy power struggle between him and Les Jackson in Dallas?
Lets send Skoula back to the reunion tour Avs… maybe we can pull a fast one and get Bruno back.
Was it against Washington that Fedorov recently had a big game that Russo was talking about? Just curious.
Thers no way Fedorov plays tonight is there?
yep, Fedorov was the last 5-goal scorer and it came against the Caps
ruth is 19, 2nd rd pick in 07. been playing in USDP. 6-1 199lbs
I am hearing that Star Tribune is reporting that they made a deal with the Washington Post…Michael Russo for Tony Kornheiser. I prefer we keep Russo though.
actually this is driving me nuts waiting,wishing,wanting.. I want Jokinen pretty bad
The Avs, in the space of three days, have added Sakic, Smyth, Stasny, Forsberg, Selie and Foote. All that and the team is only 4 pts out of the playoffs. Don’t be surprised when that team wins the NW
It gets old sitting here watching other teams pounce, when they are already good…see Dallas and San Jose, if DR isn’t going to add then trade Rolston, or Demo and add some youth and depth. Don’t half a@# it though, go in or out.
Russo for every name you throw out there, we will not get that person. Russo is jinxing us.
jetso, did you write that the Wild provided the TSN feed?
Hmmm
Maybe there is hope!
Let’s get OJ for….Russo, he won’t mind…
we could always trade Ryan Jones, his stock is pretty high with the year he’s having at Miami-Ohio
I would be more surprised if the Avs finished the season with a healthy Forsberg, Foote and Sakic. Is there any chance these geezers don’t get there arses handed to them in the playoffs? No chance this group can grit out a 7 game series.
I heard Russo won’t waive his no trade clause. Doesn’t want to cover the Panters again.
Phil Kessel no longer listed on the Bruins website roster.
I just heard that DR traded wally the beerman and the mini dounut girl in sec 102 to blackhawks for a conditional pick in the 2008 beerman draft.
I have a question, is Meier doing the game tonight so Bettman can see him in action?
Everyone’s favorite player, Matt Cooke off to Washington.
If the kessel thing is legit, it would have to be for Hossa, right?
Matt Cooke has been traded to the Caps for Pettinger…there is a God.
Matt Cooke to Caps???????????????????
Matt Cooke to Washington for Pettinger!
haha! What are we Wild fans going to do without Matt Cooke in Vancouver?
Looks like we might see Matt Cooke tonight….
Yea!…but Cooke still sux!!
Matt Cooke out of the division!! Good riddance, jerk.
Well at least there is some sort of good news.
That’s funny. I was just watching that puke score with 5.7 seconds left to tie game 7 in the ‘04 playoffs against the Flames. Hope the trade really disrupts his home life.
haha! What are we Wild fans going to do without Matt Cooke in Vancouver?
Simple, hate Burrows more.
Old Tyme would be correct. Kessel not listed. Surprised we haven’t heard that on TSN yet.
Yeah, Cooke won’t be in Van. anymore, but does that mean that we are going to have to face his little bus riding a$$ tonight? I hope his plane gets delayed.
ALEX BURROWS SUX
Hmm. Doesn’t have the same ring.
The Bruins GM was quoted in a Boston Globe blog as saying he wouldn’t be trading Kessel.
For what that’s worth.
Cooke to Washington?? I’ll miss hating Cooke!! We still have Burrows though
Any chance Kessel’s coming here?
79 minutes left and still nothing from DR
DB - that was good stuff!
Maybe some teams out in the East will give Cooke a good beating on a regular basis like he deserves.
ML - don’t work that way. MN teams good players go to Boston, they don’t send their’s here…
They havent even mentioned the Wild as a player in anything. Im thinking we are going to do nothing as usual. Better luck next year I guess.
Don’t half a@# it though, go in or out.
Gotta agree with you there. This team as-is, just isn’t a cup contender this year. It’s easy to rationalize it by saying “once you get in anything can happen” or “teams that bought last year did squat”. If you’re not going for it this year, then you should be working the roster with an eye towards next year.
Obviously, I know none of the inner workings, but the kind of moves that really bug me is seeing Bryce Salvadore going to St. Louis for Cam freakin Janssen. I find it very hard to believe the Wild couldn’t come up with something better than that for a guy that would really shore up one of the team’s weak spots.
Anyway, the day’s not quite over yet, so we’ll see what more there is…
JD14: ‘Nucks are at home for game tonight. No way Cooke makes it to DC in time for tonight’s game.
Thank the gods, see ya Cooke. Don’t let the door hit you in the a$$ on the way out.
I heard that Chiarelli said he wouldn’t trade Kessel, just seems odd that they removed his name from their roster.
TSN saying Kessel’s not on the roster because he’s been “sent down” to the minors so he can be eligible for the AHL playoffs later.
Kessel is not going anywhere..Confirmed on TSN. Paper transaction to make him eligble.
Kessel not in play…on the AHL roster to be eligible for their playoffs…
ahh Three cheers for no more Cooke!?
Ha ha. Good explanation by TSN about Kessel.
WRT- are ya’ sure, he packs light, all he needs is his purse the little wuss. (Gotta admit the parting shot to Cookie Jarvis leaving the NW felt pretty good)
Thank god. I like watching the games and not having to guess who’s going to get nocked down after the whistle next.
Now the next question would be, will DR be able to show his face for the next few months if he doesn’t make a trade?
Cooke to the Caps…ugh, just what they need is another punk.
what about jarrett stoll? are we still interested in him?
Vancouver International to Washington Dulles non-stop 7 hr flight. It’s less than 6 hrs ’til game time. Matt Cooke will get destroyed the first time Colton Orr sees him.
Good for Colton.
I’ll be shocked if we make a move. DR will say “we feel we can win with what we have” then we’ll get a 7 or 8 seed and lose in the first round again by averaging 1.5 goals per game.
One thing about the Avs…old = playoff experience.
Wouldn’t they love to knock the Wild out of the playoffs in the last game of the season…payback for ‘03.
Most of them are now on the team again…
I think 1.5 gpr is generous the way they played last year.
edoggy I hope your wrong other wise I am going to be very upset with this squad
TSN was just saying that signs are pointing towards OJ NOT getting dealt today.
Nuks guy reports that Byron Ritchie also didn’t skate today - http://communities.canada.com/theprovince/blogs/icehole/archive/2008/02/26/no-matt-cooke-or-byron-ritchie.aspx
Will the Caps issue Cookie breezers (aka pants) or a skirt? See we can still take shots at him…
I think TSN website crashed
this is pissing me off..
is tanguay still in play?
i don’t care if we have to trade bouchard anymore..
get tanguay..
then, follow that up by jokinen..
then follow that up by vanek..
then come talk to me.. the west is loading up, colorado is loading up.. and we are pissing down our leg..
will one move make this team a contender?? in my eyes it will have to be an enormous move..
kj: they’re experienced if they win, they’re old if they lose.
kj, we’d have to be IN the playoffs for that to happen. We’d be the most likely team falling out of the playoffs for COL to get in.
DR still on hold with Comcast, he thinks he was overcharged by $.12 and needs to get it cleared up today!
calgary, vancouver, detroit - no moves.
nashville no move. anaheim no move. it’s all colorado with dallas making a big swap and san jose getting a top rental.
it’s not justification for thewild not dealing but it certainly doesn’t mean everyone just jumped ahead of us.
hell if that was true I would pay his cable bill for next 3 months and I would get him HBO if he gets us Jokinen
I think DR is busy with the next blockbuster deal to bring in a scorer for the Swarm.
El Gato…I mean OUT of the playoffs completely as in do not qualify.
Canucks don’t need Cookie any more…because they have Burrows!!
G* I agree. People are in panic mode for no reason. Who’s to say any of these trades will really help all that much? I am not that worried. Although, CO will be a lot tougher.
Greenstar…
Calgary = Winning streak
Vancouver = Winning Streak
Detoit = Division wrapped up
Minnesota = Losing Streak
Momentum says we should be making a move and cant look at the other 3 as a reason not to.
Tanguay will not be traded per GM yesterday.
The biggest puzzler so far today: Huet for a 2nd. That’s it? I thought goalie was the most important position.
ho-kay, here comes the angst.
I have reserved the back room at the Russoville B&G in kj’s name for his “regulars” party starting at 3pm ET today. I’ll set out some WINGS and mini-egg rolls with DUCK sauce, my famous SHARK fin soup, and of course beer and Scotch.
detroit, san jose, anaheim are all better then the wild
calgary, vancouver, nashville are teams we can beat, but they can beat us. so thats 50-50
the dallas trade makes it so dallas is a team we won’t be able to beat.
detroit, san jose, anaheim, dallas, colorado, are all better then us right now.
and we play in the toughest division..
Montreal still reportedly working on deal for Hossa, likely Hossa and Hedberg deal Ottawa still in it too dealing Vermette & picks with others. Once that happens Holik will be available for a song. Still interesting to hear what is happening with Peca and Lang. Stoll has been taken off the market.
Green*…didja mail your playoff dough in yet?
All the moves don’t mean they got better just like standing still doesn’t mean the Wild got worse.
Anyone wanna buy the Statue of Liberty???
you bet Chris 2. 3 game losing streak going into deadline certainly means we best make trades at all costs.
you don’t think detroit is in a world of hurt right now? zetterberg has wonky back, lidstrom is damaged, cleary is done, hasek is about to be done. they are 2-7-1 in last 10! they have done nothing as well.
sorry kj, I misunderstood your post, should have paid for those speed reading classes.
Who’s reffing tonight’s game with the commish in the house (there is a game tonight, right)?
I can’t believe Hossa is still up for grabs.
There’s still time for Holik and Lang to show up tonight in Iron Range Red. Bonus: we get Byfuglien in the Lang deal.
I agree with you on Detroit. They are in a world of hurt and I think they should be trying to make a move too.
Anyone wanna buy the Statue of Liberty???
No, we already have Skoula…
it’s not justification for thewild not dealing but it certainly doesn’t mean everyone just jumped ahead of us.
Personally I don’t think Dallas made a good move, but I don’t think you can ignore what Colorado has done. It remains to be seen if the pieces all fit and don’t break, but you can’t deny the talent is there.
The Sharks also made a good move in picking up Campbell, especially if they keep him on board. Bernier is kind of a slacker and picks are… vaporware!
I’d like to see it Wafer. Then we can send Nummi to Swissssserland, Hill to pasture and Carney somewhere else to play game 1,001.
BNAG…tags one out of the park!
Detroit can get healthy before April.
The Wild gets 2 pts max on this road trip…UNLESS DR MAKES A MOVE!!!
I don’t think Detroit is in a world of hurt. They’ll be healthy in time for the playoffs.
1(un)happy hour to go!!!
Massive power outage in Miami… could this be slowing the Oli trade?
kj, I wholeheartedly disagree. The WIld can beat TBL, and FLA, and probably WAS, AS IS. Will they? That I can’t say. But they probably should come away with 3 W’s this week.
i haven’t but i will beat the deadline.
i’d feel pretty stupid if i don’t mail it in assuming they won’t win another game because dallas got richards for smith, or the aves are having a reunion, and they end up making the playoffs.
El Gato - 25-Marc Joannette & 38-Francois St-Laurent
Would everyone be so pissy if we were still up by 4 points in the divison? We lose 3 games this week, one in OT, and everyone wants to sell the farm.
We play our next 3 games against the doormats of the Eastern conf. We can easily take 4-5 points, and be back in 1st place.
I think we still need to make a move for a center or bruising defenseman, but not by trading Bouchard or Shepp. Trade a pick like WSH did for Sergei.
55 minutes to go, and deals are still on the table. I really think this is going to go down to 3pm CT before we know all the deals.
Massive power outage in Miami… could this be slowing the Oli trade?
Probably not, but it just moved to the top of the list of excuses used at DR’s Spin Conference…
Green*…agreed…but even Russo pointed out the Wild locker room was anticipating some help.
The New York Islanders acquired Rob Davison from the San Jose Sharks for a seventh round draft pick.
Haha, what an awesome name!! CookewearsaMerkin! Priceless.
BNAG, what do you mean we already have Skoula? I thought that he was on a game by game FA contract with whoever was playing the wild. He just forgets to take off our sweater.
This will be a disaster road trip for the Wild if they don’t make a move. The current roster is not motivated to do anything at all. This club needs a shake-up, and so far, DR has not delivered it.
Less than 55 minutes to go, DR…
kj: to be honest, the thing about the guys looking for some help is a little distressing to me. Is that just confirmation that they don’t believe in themselves, and there isn’t a stand up leader in the room already?!
El Gato, in my fantasy, Foster is part of the Lang deal. So assuming that all three can’t get to the Verizon Centre tonight, then Hill, Carney and Nummi all dress. Nummi and Burns play forward because Parrish is out with the flu.
Nice miss on Prospal, Doogie….
We absolutely should be 3-0 by Saturday morning. Whether we will or not is the question.
I thought we were going to smoke the Bolts last season, and we lost handily if I remember correctly.
with apologies up front if this was already posted, the nhl.com has a nice article on Rolston:
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=354776
Norman, Prospal is not the attitude we want onthe Wild.
WRT, you are smoking something for sure.
hey russo is your phone working?
My concern now is that if DR does nothing, then I can see the team getting dispirited and they’ll fall off the map.
DR, do it for your boys. Don’t do it for the fans, DO IT FOR THE BOYS.
The wild will not make a move, all the players will breathe a sign of relief, the whole team will relax, score 2 goals tonight and win. As for tomorrow who knows…
Lemarie has to stop mixing and juggling the lines as he has been doing. Tell him to put lines together and let them just play together and that should stop the ups and downs this team has experencied this entire year of ups and downs. This team has lots of talents, but unless the Wild go get Marion Hossa, then the team is doomed not to make it out of the first round if they even get into the play-offs. Thank You, jeff
Austin TX yeah we couldnt use a 30 goal centerman!!! Get real
kj: to be honest, the thing about the guys looking for some help is a little distressing to me. Is that just confirmation that they don’t believe in themselves, and there isn’t a stand up leader in the room already?!
I think it’s a pretty clearheaded realization that the team could at least use another center.
Massive power outage hits Florida…
Can’t use this as an excuse for not getting OJ, DR
Maybe the moves Leipold has made in the past with Nashville has made him take a second look at doing something this year. I hate to think that, but maybe thats why they haven’t, and aren’t, going to do anything.
i see NiNY’s point but any player would welcome more talent. and the team has needed another center all season.
I was expecting some moves today as well but no more now than i was at 8am. the moves made by colorado and dallas do not motivate me to up the ante to keep up with jones’ so to speak. thing got tougher, no doubt, but the wild as the are, can skate with anyone, if they all show up. that is the bigger issue and i don’t see a trade changing that.
I love that people just automatically assum teh team is doomed if they don’t make a move. You could be suprised.
IS DR THE NEW KM
I HOPE NOT!!!!!!
DO SOMETHING OR SELL
detroit brought in darren mccarty if i am correct.
minor deal, but the guy played with detroit for so long that its a boost for the fans and players.. no matter how well mccarty plays..
as for anaheim.. perhaps their big moves were neidemier and selanne.. which, are two nice additions without having to trade away and of their youth
Cana’t believe what I am seeing. Matt Cooke to the Capitals? Who the he?? would want him?
wild2274, Prospal is like JR Rider and Randy Moss all rolled into one. Lemaire’s got enough heartburn than to deal with that headcase, too.
Green*…but a trade is supposed to help your team get better.
Especially when the guys are looking for an addition - even if they might be the subtraction.
They need a center. That is the move that should have been made when Walz became a quitter.
wild2274, I hear Prospal is a big a-hole and whatnot. I don’t wan’t more attitude on this team. I think we are fine without him.
Is the TSN website not working for anyone else?
ATX, I don’t think the team is doomed, but I do fear they will feel let down if nothing happens today. It’s possible they’ll see it as a vote of confidence, but it could also lead to a letdown.
When you don’t know what you are doing, you do nothing. Unless you are Kevin McHale.
TSN is definitely down, pauls.
The Wild have really needed a center for a couple of years. Walz was not the right match. Risebrough really let this team down by not filling that major need during the offseason.
scott, give me a break.
Wafer, It really could go either way. I am hoping for the former and not the latter though. But there still is some time… who knows, maybe DR is working on something.
From My Perspective:
How many times have the Wild Made the playoffs without making a Deadline Trade??
How many times have we gone past the first round?
How many times have the Wild made a big deadline Trade?
How many times have we gone past the first round.
Its easy to think we will be DOOMED if we dont make a move. I Believe we will be Doomed if we dont make a move. Doomed as in if we make the playoffs it will be a first round exit..
So, as a fan of the wild, I am used to the team not making a Big move. And I am used to a first round exit.
For the fans that think the wild are good enough to win, then its clear why you think the wild will be “just fine” without making a move.
So, I say make the Move. Worst that happens is we don’t make the playoffs. But you gave your team a jolt by acquiring a big name player at the deadline..
You learn from your mistakes if this is the case.
and hey, atleast we won’t be saying. Well, IF ONLY we had made a move, perhaps we could have gone farther
Yep I would say TSN is having an overload problem.
ATX, I don’t think there’s anything we disagree on. But I could sure use a Zoloft scrip this time of year
I agree, this team has been missing a center all year and it will continue to struggle unless it gets it done. They have there ups and downs but when it comes to the playoffs they just are not consistent enough to go anywhere. Get it done DR!
Just caught a Martin Lapointe interview - I think the Wild might have missed out on a good one there.
A break about what?
“So, I say make the Move. Worst that happens is we don’t make the playoffs.”
That is FAR from the worst. We could lose some key components to future success as well. That is where the gamble comes in. Who knows how this crap works out? No one does, that is the price you pay for rolling the dice.
Best case scenario is that the current Wild players see this as a confidence booster. Not getting traded means the front office believes the current players can win. Hopefully this will motivate them to have a strong finish and a good push into the playoffs.
the moves made by colorado and dallas do not motivate me to up the ante to keep up with jones’ so to speak.
That’s not really my motivation for wanting them to “Do something!!!” It’s more that they’re basically going with the same team as last year, and not doing as well to boot.
Scott, no need to keep riding the Walz train. Let it go, I think you’re the last one on it.
“sorry kids, you’ve been good all year but I’m still putting coal in your stockings”
Sincerely,
Santa Risebrough
MH - the worst that happens is you lose that prospect for next season and the rental you pick up for you boost this season.
the Walz comment scott.
Wafer, I feel ya there. Boy this has been one unproductive day of “work”.
Unfortunately, it seems mediocrity can be accepted when you sell out EVERY night and are making money hand over fist.
I hate to say it, but if a trade isn’t made, I have to think that they are okay with MAYBE making the playoffs and a first round exit?
Its called MOMENTUM and by making a trade, you are telling your team that you WANT to get better and energizing the whole bunch.
I believe it was Benjamin Franklin who said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results”.
Not a lot of activity in the last hour…
The point is not Walz it is that DR has needed to fill a hole all year and here we sit pissed that nothing is going to happen. That is incompetence.
G* that is BS> The worst is that the Rental gets injured, or he doesn’t fit well with the team and flops hard. Plus you lose out on a prospect/pick/etc. There are plenty of things worse than NOT making a move.
RUSSO where’s an UPDATE?
I understand building for the future, but when is the future? I would rather the Wild not end up like the Twins. Making the playoffs every year, but never making a move to be a legit contender. I’d rather be a legit contender once every 3 years than being bounced in the first round. The wild’s strong playoff run in 03′ was a fluke. It wasn’t because our youth played to there potential, because who is still here from that team other than Gabby and Schultz.
Yeah, I’m getting pissy about this whole thing. We have needed a top tier center since 03′ and haven’t went out and got one. Why not actually have a complete first line?
Austin
its the same gamble, for every team..
wild are not good enough to win a cup..
wild have been in the same position for 2-3 years now..
we don’t make the move..
DR has one call here..
and that is to make the trade
Hossa to the Pens?
When asked why it didn’t work out for Cooke in Vancouver, his statement was “Things definately changed 2 years ago”
Was this when Burrows came in?
MH, that Mr. Yuck sticker is on that bottle for a reason. Now put it back under the sink and go outside for a while.
Based on the majority of these posts, it sounds like we all have 42 minutes to live. Making a trade just to make a trade is not a good reason to make a trade. I love how everyone thinks Colorado is suddenly the team to beat because they brought in a guy who hasn’t played in a year and an aging defenseman. Remember, we’re only a point out of the Northwest lead. I think the Wild will be FINE without making a move.
Don’t know if the team is doomed, at least this year, if no move is made, but you have a critical UFA stating in the paper that he wants a center brought in. If nothing is done, that only increases the odds that he signs elsewhere this summer, which in turn, could very easily lead to Gabby signing elsewhere when his deal is up. There are always dominos that fall tomorrow because of what happens today.
TSN is choking on the traffic. Big day. Maybe Gordie Howe decided to come back. I mean, why not? Seems like you can just sit retired in the wings until someone needs a playoff push.
There a few people here who thing being DR is an easy thing, just pull trades, dump assets, win now. What do you do in the early season when no one is selling centers, Scott?
BTW, I’m getting tired of having to refresh all the time when I’m trying to post something. It’s throwing my game off.
“Things definately changed 2 years ago”
Was this when Burrows came in?
Or when Berturdzi left…
Talk on CBC HNIC of Hossa going to Pitt.
Word on the street Leafs are looking to trade Blake.
toivo, where are you hearing that?
Hockeybuzz.com just rumored Hossa to the Penguins…Interesting.
I think we may have just seen the calm before the storm (i.e., no moves for about an hour, then a flurry of activity in the final half hour). Let’s hope DR can get something accomplished. Compared to last season, they seem to have lost some of the spark/drive of last year…Maybe bringing someone in can change that?
Time for the Gaborik/Malkin deal!
Hossa to Pitt, that would be huge for them. Depending on who they give up though…
Who are the Pens giving up to get Hossa? Malkin? There is NO WAY they can afford Crosby, Malkin, Staal, and Hossa
Holik, bitches!
Oh THE DOUCHE reported the Hossa to Pitt deal??… it’s not going to happen.
You have a plan if Walz doesn’t come back which was in question from the end of last year. You deal with it in the offseason.
I can’t imagine who the Penguins would be willing to give up for Hossa. Malkin, Crosby and Staal should all be untouchable at this point, and I can’t imagine there’s anyone else Atlanta would want.
What what? We got Holik?? FOr what?
Not to mention, as Gunslinger said, they wouldn’t be able to afford all those guys. Heck, I doubt they even want to pay Hossa whatever he’ll be asking.
Scott
thanks for taking a shot at me..
much appreciated.. i can tell you are a classy individual. or a piece of $hit.. i will go with the latter
obviously you, green star and austin view the wild as a team that can win now..
better hope pavol, and rolston decide to resign with us..
otherwise you guys will really be wishing the wild tried to make a run this year..
cuz next year could be major holes
and will gabby want to resign?? we never make a move to try and win a cup..
That was a request…sorry boys.
Lots of the big names gone now. It looks like Jokinen or no one. I wonder if anyone wants Colton Gillies and maybe him and Butch could get a deal done. I really like Sheppard and dont think in any way we should deal him. San Jose gave up a kings ransom to get Campbell Bernier and a first, just goes to show you what the market is like. But the Stars got Richards without giving up Niskanen which doesnt seem plausible so who knows with this market.
Can’t be all doom and gloom.
On paper some of these clubs have gotten stronger. But, they still need to blend the new players into their system.
Personally, I think OJ would help our team, now and more in the future. But, maybe not at the price required.
Maybe we will stumble and maybe we won’t, but I like our chances either way.
If we get into the SCP, we will not need to play every one of those behemoths, somebody else will get a couple of them.
damn IceBear, you got me excited for a sec.
I didn’t get it from Ecklund. Sportsnet is reporting it, but TSN hasn’t confirmed it yet. No idea of its veracity or who the Pens might have dealt to get him.
yes HOSSA!
rapids, that’s just mean.
“yes HOSSA!”
Que??
Hockeybuzz is also reporting that Gretsky cloned himself and the two of them will actually play for Phoenix instituting a new style of professional “pick-up” hockey. Also just out, Bobby Orr has freed himself from a crystalline cocoon and found an agent. Rumors have him going to the Rangers.
Over 550 posts, take that LaVelle!
http://fans.nhl.com/groups/Official_NHL_Connect_Trade_Deadline_2008_Central
Check out the very bottom of the page.
Niveous, you should start your own blog. Your rumor speculating skills are impecable.
what does it say for whatever reason it is blocking me
wow some tensions running high in Russoville.
I don’t know what will happen with Hossa, but whoever posted the Hossa-to-Pittsburgh rumors… you’ve given me a heart attack that will persist for the next 20 minutes or so, or until official word comes down Hossa’s been traded.
Hmmm… T minus 19 minutes. Maybe it’s time I stepped out for lunch and see how the rest shakes out when I get back. Not really getting any work done here.
Austin, don’t tempt me. It’s sounding really good right now. I may have to think about it actually.
The link says “Lang to MN for a pick”.
Lang to the Wild for a pick?
Claims Robert Lang to Wild for a draft pick
Yeah, now hockeybuzz.com is saying that the Pens assistant GM denies the Hossa claim, while the Sens like their chances of picking him up…It’s a crapshoot.
Unfortunately, Russo’s blackberry seems to not be working (or something…update please?), and TSN’s webpage doesn’t like me any more so I’m having to resort to lesser hockey authorities for my news…And rapids, you almost killed me with your Hossa talk.
I actually caught myself refreshing nhl.com’s Trade Central page a few times. Then I remembered we have DR, who makes Terry Ryan look like a riverboat gambler.
Rob it says Clubber Lang to wild for a draft pick. Oops I mean Robert Lang.
Wild sign Chuck Norris, waive the rest of the team. They are no linger needed.
Kool-aid comes in all flavors, even that of the Pens. Read this from Arik’s link…
“I mean we screwed up BIG TIME when we got rid of Dominique Moore last year he was supposed to be the best in the league at face-offs(or shoot-outs, I can’t remember which!).”
Demi, Dominique… whatever….
lol… clubber.in my KFAN voice. I always Loved that one…
Hey, good enough for me. Things are better now that we allegedly have a center. Wonder if he’s on a flight out of O’Hare already?
Nice one GUBulldog.
Hossa to Pitt shot down.
I LIKE the Lang thingy…
Prospal=JR Rider…classic. Did Prospal swipe some cell phones and i missed it? ROFL
Not that there’s anything wrong with that kj!
While I didn’t really like the Moore trade, I didn’t think it was a big time screw up. He was decent for a while, but then he did tail off a bit. I didn’t lose sleep over the Moore trade.
Anyone familiar with Robert Lang’s contract status?
Morris Wanchuk to FLA - hanging out at the Palm Isle.
via espn.com a few minutes ago:
Hossa’s not really a fit in Calgary. Minnesota’s got issues moving forward with contracts and couldn’t really fit Hossa in. Vancouver needs offense, but GM Dave Nonis doesn’t seem to have the means to make a deal. Maybe Hossa stays put and Waddell hopes against hope he can trade Hossa’s rights before July 1. Big risk, and not nearly as much in return.
Lang has a 4mil cap hit, but nhlnumbers.com is down. I think he’s on the hook for another year.
Lang for a draft choice would be good. It would be SOMETHING, which is really all I’m after.
And even Terry Ryan dealt Pierzynski.
Listening to these TSN guys….NO ONE has talked about the Wild all day. Should that tell us something?
Tums anyone?
Wild sign Chuck Norris, waive the rest of the team. They are no linger needed
dig it
I wonder if the Lang thing holds any weight…
Green*…would Chuck Norris render Jarome Iginla meaningless?
Come on who really talks about the Wild other that us, Russo, and Shipley of the Pio,
Hossa to Pittsburgh heating up, would definitely include Staal & maybe Goligoski. Still think Montreal & Ottawa likely. Something is happening in Atlanta though, recalls made for Holik, Zhitnik & Hossa.
Wafer - thanks, adding someone who will be here next year is definately what DR would want to do.
I could use a couple of Tums…haha…I was supposed to be writing papers all day, but then the trade deadline happened.
7 mins left and we haven’t heard anything for a while. Is it all going to come at once??????
OMG these MN GMs are killing me…it is time to take up arms against our opressors!
No way we can seriously be a player for Hossa… can’t be…
Iginla was created from a discarded toe nail off of Chuck Norris’ left pinky toe. They are one and the same.
Penguins just got Hal Gill though. I kind of like that. I HATE playing against that jerk.
Holik and Lang to the Wild for a pair of draft picks.
Gaborik and Demitra apoplectic at the Czeck-Slovak balance tipped to even.
So… whats the scoop with Lang?
I’m not buying the Lang thing yet as there hasn’t been any mention yet on TSN.
I want it to be confirmed though.
Time to get ready for a shi*tstorm or nothing at all I guess…
Adam and Wafer, Lang is signed through ‘09 at 4MM per
in the past when norris and iginla met a new universe was created
Hal Gill to Pens,
Gotta be in Canada for TSN???
Let’s push Russoville to 1,000 posts.
Or NHL Network which is in connection with TSN
Its gonna come down to the last couple of minutes and we’re in the dark!
Just like DRs elevator.
How much time is left?
So….let’s make a deal….
Hossa to Pens OMG
PIT GOT HOSSA
Lucky you, Kevin.
Hossa to pens for what?? Kivin you must be in heaven.
Hossa…to PENS…Espo, Armstrong and Christensen
Are you serious…….. nothing!?!?!?!?!??! wtf. double you tee eff.
and possible 1st rounder
Pens win the cup!
And the rich get richer.
…and a 1st to Atlanta…Waddell did VERY well for himself given that he essentially HAD to move Hossa.
3:00 and no moves announced.
Wow…That Hossa thing is friggin’ huge. The excitement is killing me…I think I just wet myself. And I am not a cowboy.
Sundin just reversed his decision on the NTC, dealt to the Canucks in a 7 player deal involving Alex Burrows and Ryan Kessler.
I don’t think the deal has to be done, by the deadline, just into the league.
i’m glad i grew up in Wisco so i won’t feel bad switching loyalty. Nice to have met y’all…i’m a wings fan (again).
How can they afford that under the cap!?!?1
So is that it? Are we done? NO moves??
DR does nothing! Good job, dud.
Wafer: for real?
Must give credit to Ecklund for Hossa to Pitt.
Actually, the Wild can still have a deal go through as long as the league office is aware of the essential details. The league probably has a ream of deals they need to approve of before they’re all announced.
Hossa was going to be moved regardless. Nice deal for Atlanta though. They got some very promising prospects.
I’m not sure if I should be excited or sick. And my comment on the brief merits of who we gave up is awaiting moderation.
NiNY - no, sorry to freak you out
I think Pitt was crazy to make that move!
Gave up way too much, anything short of a cup victory this year and this is a bad move. They will not be able to sign all their young guys plus Hossa. Crazy!
elbruin, Eklund is still a douche.
I can’t lie, I will not be a happy customer if DR stood pat.
Dupuis back to Atlanta in the Hossa deal.
Trades can still be reported for 45 mins or so after 2 IIRC, they just have to be submitted to the NHL by then.
The power outage in FL can’t be helping any Jokinen negotiations.
Maybe Pascal DuPuis will be the great equalizer.
I think I feel more sick than happy.
Pitt got Pascal Dupis in that deal too? That’s funny.
Eklund’s source was CSN though…No credit necessary…haha
Nothing,Nada,Zilch. Turn out the lights DR and good luck in Toronto.
Now that the Hossa deal has been announced, look for the Holik to the Wild deal to be announced.
The Pens have long needed that high-scoring winger to play with Crosby, but…. AHHH!!! We gave up Colby, who’s probably the fiercest hitter on the team, tremendous energy player, huge fan favorite.
I might cry.
It does seem though that if DR made a deal, Russo would know about it by now.
Hossa is just a rental for the Pens too… from what I’m hearing.
I hope you are right wafer! We need something!
And his contract!! How are we going to afford all these guys?! This dope might not even be around in September.
It took so long for Hossa deal to close I wouldn’t be surprised to see Holik and Zhitnik deals done already just not on radar yet for Atlanta.
That’s a hell of a lot to give up for a rental.
There are reported tornadoes in Florida. Maybe a reason Russo isn’t posting is that he is under a tornado watch, and hunkered down.
thatd be ok cowboy but he is in washington
Auntie Em, Auntie Em, It’s a twister!
Kevin, I feel bad for you. You sould like waht I would be saying if PMB were to be traded… only without the fierce-hitting etc. parts :D.
I still think that we are going to be getting some center.
CHRIS SIMON!!!
Russo reports Dupius going the other way, sorry used the line too much already!
Chris Simon? Say it ain’t facking so.
Chris Simon? Come on.
Wow, MI TYPIN’ SKILLZ NOOD IMPRUVMANT.
They just made a joke that we play in the NFL.
All is well, we got Simon
I didn’t expect a blockbuster, but I expected something…
Sorry, I am distracted by the lack of movement
Simon!?! Thats our deal?!?
Chris Simon to the Wild for a pick. And all the guys on TSN are laughing about it.
this must be pending clearance from his PO
wild trade for simon from the islanders for a 6th round pick
wild got chris simon for a 6th round pick…wow bold move dr
Okay, they don’t want me giving my descriptions of what we gave up, apparently. Colby’s the biggest piece, Christensen great in shootouts but underachiever offensively, seems early to give up on Esposito…
I don’t know what I’ve said that has been printed already, I think I’m losing my mind.
That comment made more sense when I started posting it five minutes ago.
great. another washed up player from NY. We get all the Islanders Trash.
Must give credit to Ecklund for Hossa to Pitt.
Not really. Sportsnet is the one that first reported it.
Sure, fine, we don’t have enough former suspended NY Islanders.
Wow..I feel sickened….what happened to my CLASSy Wild squad???
LOL buck
what
Is there a half-way house near the X?
hmmm. i thought he was suspended for life? a 6th round pick is like getting him for free though.
OK…So I officially am OK if DR didn’t complete a deal. Time (the remainder of the season) will tell if he knew what he was doing all along. However, I am NOT OK with the fact that I spent way too much time speculating on different trade scenarios for the Wild today.
DR, in the future if you plan to do nothing at the deadline, I’d appreciate a heads up so I don’t waste my day thinking about something that’s not going to happen…haha.
That is all.
Now I think I may be sick kevin. Ugh, Simon?
…ok, I really want a center now. I don’t understand the Simon move at all.
You wanted tougher…we just got a LOT tougher.
Un f***ing beliveable. We need a center, somebody to take the pressure off Demo and let him play wing. So, naturally, we go out and get one of the biggest pr!cks in the League. What, we made a play for Cooke but he was already gone to Washington? Has McHale’s ineptness slowly crept from 1st ave in Mpls over to Washington in St. Paul?
So we have Fedoruk, Boogie (injured), and Simon. Chris freaking Simon? Are we sure we want a player like him on this team? Horrible move. Watch him get suspended within 10 games.
Praise the Lord…Matt Cooke’s out of the division. I hate that guy more than Bertuzzi!!! Chicken Spit!!! Good ridance.
What does this say about Boogey’s health?
Hopefully his counselor comes with him.
Well, Boogie’s back must mean he is out for the season for sure now. Please tell me Simon is not under contract for next year! Also, Good Old Wally and his freinds must be happy now.
Ottawa gets Lapoint for a 6th round pick and we get Simon for the same!!!!!!!!! What the hell is DR thinking? This sucks and we look stupid!
Oh yeah, I see where this one is going to be real popular.
We got Chris “Cheap Shot” Simon? He SHOULD have been suspended for life.
Maybe DR can trade our first round draft pick to the clippers for Marko Jaric. Oh wait, KM beat him to that.
Does Boston want Gaborik?
I guess DR thought we needed a little protection after the way the Flames pushed us around at will on Sunday.
Still some trades coming out, there could be more.
that’s it? Chris Simon? Don’t think he fits the bill of that center we all wanted
Win a face off who needs to do that! Stars bandwagon here I come.
Ogie Oglethorpe wasn’t available? So someone shoves Gabby and Simon takes a 2 handed whack over the offenders head and is gone for the season (if not more).
My condolences on Simon. I’d say more, but….
*cries*
If anyone needs me I’ll be huddled in a corner sucking my thumb and whimpering to myself.
Thank Chris Simon is not signed past this year. What a bold move, DR. You better slow down and take a nap after all that action. Nice to see a team get Lapointe for a 6th rounder and we get a felon.
I wonder if they want Fedoruk to take more of a skating role with the team instead of an enforcer role.
maybe we can get Petr Bondra
Simon blows. I am really disappointed by that move. Where is the Center we so desperatly need? This sucks. I still like the team as is, but the addition of Simon makes me sick. I would have been happier had DR done nothing.
It would have been better with no moves at all, rather than a half-a$$ed attempt by signing Simon
I don’t like it when Canadians laugh at us about hockey. I feel like I’m in Middle School again…
now we will literally be fighting for the playoffs
So who’s out for Simon? Branco? Foy?
There could be more?
What? Are we trying to bring McSorley out of retirement?
Simon? We’re turning into the Canucks…
Time to find another team to route for. Adding a player like Simon is just plain embarrasing. The arrogance of this front office is going to be the downfall of this franchise. Time for the “TEAM” of 18,000 to look for better value for their dollar. Sad
DP no, Belanger. DR feels that Center is an overrated position!
Why did we pick up another winger when we need a center? Especially one with suspension issues. Thankfully according to TSN the Islanders only signed him to a one year contract in July so he shouldn’t be under contract for next year.
Black Tuesday…
I’m going to try to talk myself into this, I’m going to try to talk myself into this, I’m going to try to talk myself into this, I’m going to try to talk myself into this….
I’m shocked and disappointed.
NO JD, we are going to sign Ohlund.
Having the top scouts back to help DR for the trading deadline sure helped.
I just threw up a little bit in my mouth…
I can officially say a “no-move at all” might have been better than picking-up Chris Simon… awful
Expect Boogaard to be placed on IR for the remainder of the season. Only justification for this stupid move. Either that or someone slipped acid into Doug’s Vitamin Water.
Fire DR
Worst decision in the history of the team and it’s not even close. Nazarov, Brunette, Kassian, Moore, those moves pale in comparison. This clown is a disgrace to the national hockey league.
Don’t worry… Simon will get suspended right away and it’ll be like he never was hear…
When I said “in your face player”, I didn’t mean “sticks and skates in your face” Doug!
Why in the hell?
Hey don’t be too quick to judge me. The wild were desperate for someone who can hit people. The wild got smoked by Calgary just a few days ago getting outsmashed and only had 4 hits the entire game. At least Simon isn’t afraid to throw his body, stick, legs or skates around.
It would have been better with no moves at all
it would have been just as bad.
54fighting - its like i hardly knew ya. you will be missed at the X, if you ever went.
Chris Simon? I thought we wanted to trade for hockey players. That is absolutely pathetic.
Russo says the trade hasn’t yet been approved. Maybe there’s something that can be done to make the league deny it.
I did say I’d like DR to do something at the deadline. If this trade goes through, I’d like to withdraw that comment.
Knowing that the BJ’s were in sell mode, I will be a bit upset if we don’t at least get Peca?
I’m still holding out hope for Lang though.
I think the DR to KM comparisons are unfair…
DR is more like Terry Ryan (without the good farm system!!!)
Stupid trade if you ask me… way to go Wild.
Didn’t Chris Simon once take his skate off and try to stab someone in the face with it?
btw bye 54Fighting, we won’t miss you a bit.
DR sucks…. great, we have another Minnesota Twins on our hands. Always building for the future, never building for a championship
Well I did see that they are using the leftover “Fight To The End” cups again at the X. Apparently this time they really really really mean it.
Pierre Maguire just said he fears we’ll turn into Tampa Bay North.
I mean, I’m sort of excited about this season, but down the road… I’m very concerned. I’m going to miss Colby a lot though. He might’ve been the third most popular player here. Maybe second.
We don’t have another Twin’s team on our hands, we have another Timberwolves’ team. It’s only a matter of time before DR decides that it’s just not working and we have to “rebuild”
We have more checking line forwards than anyone else in the league. And the cap strapped Ducks still found a way to sign Bergeron.
We couldn’t even take a shot at Marcel Hossa.
3 more trades just got announced on tsn.ca so unless I am totally naive i think a center is on their way to MN in the next 30 mins if not lets boycott the rest of the season because this is an obvious blunder!!!!
I’m not from minny but have lived here since ‘89. i’ve tried but been unable to get behind any minny team except the wild b/c none of the teams have any kind of killer instinct - from owner to management to players and all the way to fans. Close is enough for minny sports. i thought the wild was different but i was wrong. i am adding the wild to the dumper and will not follow, watch, or spend any money on them, right to the last - meaning if local media happens to have a story, the channel is switched. i don’t care to follow a never-better-than-pretty-darn-good team. i’ll take down years to have championship years. been nice knowing you, wild…hope you never win the stanley cup!
Oh my god, how do they expect to keep Demitra and Gaborik around now?
The wild miss the playoffs this year finishing 4th in the division.
SLAP SHOT 3 “WILD NIGHTS”
Good former wild fan, you won’t be missed.
well former wild fan your obviously not from Minnesota. b/c you can’t enjoy something like college hockey. im glad your a former fan, we don’t like quitters.
former wild fan…thanks for that. Go troll somewhere else to tell us that you’re leaving. I don’t care. I’m here to talk hockey.
piss off Former Wild Fan. Good Riddance to ya.
Tony D, I hope you are right.
You’ve GOT to be kidding me! Is this an early April Fool’s joke or something?? Chris Simon doesn’t even belong in the NHL, yet alone on a team that prides itself on it’s family-friendly youth hockey image. What the hell is going on in the front office??!
Is it possible that the Wild will trade Simon to the Vikings as they are in the need of an “Offensive” lineman?
You all are more entertaining than the rest of the day combined. To those on the way out… don’t let the door catch you in the rear.
Wanted: one big, hard-nosed center who can win face offs? The DR solution: an over-the-hill cheap shot artist. BRILLIANT!
lets boycott the rest of the season because this is an obvious blunder!!!!
please do. better sight lines for me.
serious, if you want to do this, fine. no coming back if the make the playoffs.
Think Simon will find a place in Stillwater, prison?
wow, the Ducks now hove to Jean-Sebations on their team. Funny.
Stop crying about the Simon trade. Aren’t you tired of watching Todd Fedoruk on the top line and power play? Wouldn’t it be nice to see a big player with more skill in his spot? When the gloves come off, wouldn’t it be nice to have a real live enforcer that’s willing to throw punches? Simon is a better hockey player and fighter than Fedoruk. Sure, he’s had suspension issues, but for a 6th round pick, he signals an upgrade for the wild. Maybe Fedoruk will be dropped to the 3rd line to replace a chump like Branko?
If you want to complain about something, why not complain about Lemaire and Doug R? How much rope do they get? What have they accomplished here in MN? When Gabby refuses to re-sign with the Wild (and he WILL refuse to re-sign) will you blame him, or will you get real and realize that nobody with offensive talent wants to be here.
Wake up. Simon is about as good as it’s going to get.
OOh OOh, I can’t wait to see the look on Brad May’s face the next time we play the Ducks and he has to line up against Fedoruk, Boogie and Simon. He just might p*ss himself!!
If Gabby wont sign the extension this summer, the Jokinen + for Gabby trade this summer would seem likely.
Another typical Minnesota pick up. When are fans going to start demanding a championship in this town? Are we just too nice here and only ok with making the playoffs each year, then not wanting to hold our teams accountable when they do nothing once they get there? I dont know about you but I am sick of it, its time to start getting mad!
Have the Wild been confirmed to be done yet?
Chris Simon??? did smuggla steal DR’s phone???
We’ll keep Demo and Gabby now because they’ll be too scared to leave.
At this rate, with all the people jumping off the bandwagon, Russo will have his over 1000 posts. Ok, I am not saying I like this trade (not even close) but here is some optimism just for Austin, we all questioned the Fedorak pick up and he has worked out just fine, MAYBE, JUST MAYBE on a different team, Simon will change. (Doubtful but one can hope). Or maybe they packaged him in with someone else to get us a center?
” If you want to complain about something, why not complain about Lemaire and Doug R? How much rope do they get? What have they accomplished here in MN? When Gabby refuses to re-sign with the Wild (and he WILL refuse to re-sign) will you blame him, or will you get real and realize that nobody with offensive talent wants to be here. ”
I am crying about the Simon trade and will continue to do so. He is not what this team needs. However, your other observation is spot on.
Wild trade for Troy Williamson.
Chris Simon is Todd Fedoruk with better hands (slightly) unless he takes a stupid pill and slashes someone in the face. I don’t understand this move b/c in the playoffs you can’t dress both Fedoruk & Simon. Unless we plan on playing 3 lines only (10 players in the 3rd). I think we are battling Vancouver/Nash/Phoenix/Chicago for the 7/8 spot. This translates to a 1st round exit at best case scenario.
Getting Simon is totally underwhelming, but I’m holding out hope that there’s more?
And it seems like we need to post the suicide hotline. Folks need to chill. What a weird day.
The Simon acquisition is listed on TSN….oh the shame!
I do think TB has a point, the wild do not have a real enforecer who can skate this year with Boogie seemingly out for the season. As much as it pains me to pick up a thug like Simon, the wild did need to get tougher and this makes them tougher.
ok, time to leave. i see all the wild haters are starting to come out. i might check back in for the game.
The Phoenix Coyotes acquired Marcel Hossa and Al Montoya to the New York Rangers for Fredrik Sjostrom, Josh Gratton, and David LeNeveu.
Hossa scored a goal and registered seven assists in 36 games this season. He returned from a conditioning stint in the minor on February 24th. Before Sunday’s game, Hossa had not played since January 14th due to a back injury.
I’m on hold with the suicide hotline, joey.
kgopher, I appreciate that!
I hope you are right… Simons criminal.. *ahem* I mean ‘track’ record doe not give me confidence though. He is tough, but I don’t want this team to look like ass-clowns when he does something stupid again.
I had to google Chris Simon ‘cuz I didn’t know who he was and now that I know and that he’ll be playing for the Wild…I have to go take a shower…very disappointing…we don’t need Matt Cooke (and worse) types here.
“Oh alas, Woe is me, I’m never going to a Wild game again”.
Hey, for all season a good share of what is posted here is that the Wild get pushed around.
Now, it sounds like some of you folks think we got too tough.
It does not make any difference at all whether TSN or the Canadians, or the Guatamalan’s for that matter, laugh at us or not.
Really what matters for the Wild is wheter they are standing yet in April, and maybe June.
If the prices were too high for the guy we wanted, DR did what he should have done and that is nothing at all. No point in going after someone who really does not have what you need.
Nobody will miss the 6th round choice at all.
Fedoruk suprised lots of people, maybe Simon will too.
Hate to break it to ya, but we’re not the only place that doesn’t win championships every few years. It has nothing to do with fans demanding more. That’s silly. If you don’t care anymore, go away. If you don’t want to spend your money, go away. Those are your rights, I just don’t want to hear about it.
Sounds like Joe Motzko was traded. I think the poor kid has been traded just about every year.
I am embarrased to see Chris Simon on this team. I would think that Craig Leopold would feel the same.
DEMITRA should have been traded from the Wild. Gabby and Demitra are both “what if” players and will never be stars in the league. Gaborik is non-existant in most games. Franchise players make an impact no matter who they play with. Gaborik can not.
I may have to seriously consider if I am going to watch this team again if Chris flippin Simon is on it! I don’t even know how he is still in the league. What the heck is DR doing?!?!? This is totally unacceptable to me!
This is the first time in team history that I am flat out ticked off at the organization and at DR. This is pathetic!
Simon - sigh, not excited about it…
Has anyone else ever hit refresh so many times in one day of work?
I’m sure DR was aware of how fans were going to react to this move - I’ll grab some popcorn and patiently wait for his justification speech- it should be entertaining
The reality, the Wild is still a decent team - the division and the west sure are looking tougher today, though
I’m with kgopher and iceman.
Wes Walz for GM!!!
JL’s master plan, next time Meier does a game , send Simon out to bludgeon him to near-death. Worth a 6th rounder, some of you may think so.
I didn’t say he could change, I didn’t say I trusted him, I didn’t say I liked him, which I really don’t. I agree that after his last stupid/dangerous incident he should have been banned from hockey. I am just trying to try to find a bright side, but I really don’t think there is one to this move.
The Penguins gave up a ton for Hossa. Imagine if they don’t win the Cup and he signs elsewhere. Wow, what a risk.
Alexandre Giroux was dealt to the Washington Capitals.no idea where he was from but saw this on rotoworld.com
In Simon’s defense, it WAS Jarkko Ruutu. Is there anyone who believes he didn’t have a cheap shot ior two (or 50) coming to him?
Obviously this means Boogie’s back is not getting any better. Plus, Simon has 144 career goals, which is about 143 more than Boogie, right? And aren’t we Minnesota, the land of rehab? I realize I’m a huge minority on this, but let’s see how this shakes out. I’ve been reading a lot of whining on this board about how we’re getting pushed around, and someone needs to step up….Well gang, here’s your guy.
What is Chris Simon’s face-off %? jk.
The Plan continues………………..
Did anyone notice that Wild.com hasn’t announced the trade yet? Do you think that is because there is still another trade coming or do you think they are waiting for it to be approved? Maybe there is still more to come? One can hope!
They could’ve gotten tougher any number of ways and this seems to me like the least favorable option. To be blunt–I don’t know how we cheer for this guy. He’s had his 2nd and 3rd chances already. I guess it comes down to how forgiving a fan you are. I am, but only so far. This one is tough to swallow.
So many are on here I gave up for a while. Got tired of being ‘cowboy’ed to death.
Not really enthralled with the Simon deal. Should we just get a corner of the ‘X’ as a rock pile for our ‘criminals’ to continually bust up?
What an F’N joke! Will be interested to see exactly what Russo has to say about another “great” acquisition. Why is it that Minnesota sports teams are always associated with the worst pick up’s trades, etc.? We’ve already got a goon in Voros (got a reputation and can’t stay out of the penalty box), Boogy can’t play, and although he has become a better hockey player, cannot contribute where we need it, and that (are you listening Doug?), is in the goal scoring category!!!!! Simon is 35, been suspended twice in the last two seasons for extended periods, and has what, 3 points or so this year? Hardly a contributing factor to say the least. It’s getting hard to be a season ticket holder with this kind of s**t going on. So much talent out there, sure it costs, but winning does. Hard to believe that there is actually a plan for the Wild to become a contender, but I guess we’ll just have to continue to trust that brainchild DR.
Boogie has at least 2 goals I’m pretty sure.
I can live with Simon, but that’s it?! WTF?!
if simon doesnt slash someone in the face or drop kick someone this could be a good trade
Eddie, I think if he has stick in tomahawk position, you think the opponent wants to win that draw. He may be our best face-off (literally) man.
they are always slow to announce (wild.com) plus it’s not really anything to “rush out and post” is it?
The Wild is doing what MN teams always seems to do. They sign the washouts that nobody wants. They will be one and out this upcoming playoffs. Hey as long as they sell out, this will continue. I don’t know about you, team of 18000, but I’m excited to see Simon crack some skulls out there.
As I said all along, the Wild have crap in Houston. No trade bait. This team is about as good as it is going to be for the next few years. So much for Risebrough’s developing young talent approach. It got the Wild nothing in the playoffs, and now the team is going downhill. Sure many Wild fans wearing beer goggles will disagree, but when we aren’t able to sign all of our free agents, who is going to step up from the Houston team. Risebrough is over rated and has been responsible for an average to above average team…but certainly he has not shown the ability to produce a playoff ready team and a cup contender.
TSN on NHL Network has announced several teams are ‘done’, the wild HAVE NOT been mentioned yet….mabye…….
EL Gato, I think you way be on to something.
OK, as much as I don’t think I like it and there isn’t a bright side, I am going to wait and see how it shakes out and hope he can change.
The point is why didn’t they pick up a guy like Martin LaPointe instead of a psycho like Simon if they were going to go after a gritty winger? The Wild have made reclamation projects of many players but even with the native connection in the area which would be a great environment for him to be a leader, he has never been able to maintain his control on the ice despite being a very quiet man off it. And who knows if he can regain what he did for the Caps in their playoff run ever again.
…I still can’t believe that we have not picked up a center, ANY center yet.
Nice El Gato!
I think the reason for picking up Simon is clear–DR still thinks these guys could use some more muscle and toughness. You just have to wonder why Simon of all people. He’s got to be one of the most unpopular players in the entire league, and for good reason. How do you cheer for a guy who has swung his stick at somebody’s head and stomped on another players foot with his skate blade? Not to mention, where does he fit? Now they’ve got Boogaard, Fedoruk, Simon, Voros in addition to Branko and SRV. Throw in Foy and they’ve got seven wings that would not be counted on to provide any kind of offense. What is the plan here?
Come on, Simon has 3 chances to stomp on Forsberg’s gimpy foot before the playoffs. Coincidence?
There has to be more to come. This does not address our biggest need at all. There are rent-a-centers that could have been had for a 6th rounder. Come on, there must be more?
Is this crazy Chris Simon? What happen to Robert Lang?
“Every team but Philly and Colorado” are done
I guess my feeling is that Regardless of what Simon does it is the MN Wild players and fans that have been let down by DR not getting the job done, in Minnesota we have a rich tradition of professional sports team with terrible management GM’s team presidents whatever you want to call it and the MN Wild were a little suspect previous to today but now (unless we announce a trade or two late here) DR has exposed himself as the next tourch carrier in the Mismanagement of a MN team.
Had DR and JL now come out and made the statement that this was the year to make a run maybe some wiggle room could be in order but to not make a trade at this most important deadline in the wild’s history is unacceptable!!
It wasn’t Robert, DR really wanted Clubber Lang, until someone told him he was a movie character. Then he went to the next level, Simon.
Hey, at least we still have PMB! Maybe Simon can break Burrow’s jaw for PMB so Burrow’s can’t talk smak to him anymore!
we don’t need Matt Cooke (and worse) types here.
I had recently been thinking how much it would suck to have such players on the Wild. However, Simon will only be here for a few months and his acquisition will keep the Good Old Wally’s of the world from going off on this blog about the need for fighters.
AP Story from the other night (excerpted)
UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP)—Chris Simon’s latest one more chance started Thursday night when he returned to the New York Islanders lineup against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Simon was back at the scene of the crime—in this case multiple crimes— after serving a 30-game ban for stomping on the leg of Pittsburgh’s Jarkko Ruutu in December at Nassau Coliseum.
He played nine shifts, only four after the first period, and totaled 6:17 of ice time in the Islanders’ 1-0 victory that stretched their winning streak to a season-best six games.
“The most important thing is that we won,” he said. “My teammates have been so supportive and have been great to me. I can’t control what other people think and how they react. I respect that they have their opinion and I’m just going to keep working hard in gaining them back.
“I worked hard this time that I’ve had away from the game on myself. I feel much better now coming back. I just want to move forward and help the team.”
The rugged and sometimes out-of-control left wing has played 27 games this season and missed 35 due to a pair of suspensions.
“It’s in the past,” a smiling but subdued Simon said. “I need to focus on each game, each shift. I can’t control what other people think. All I can do is work hard and play hard.”
Islanders coach Ted Nolan said Simon was in the best shape he’s seen him since they both joined the Islanders before last season. He was also pleased with the early returns Thursday.
“I didn’t want to give him too much ice time too early but I thought he did a great job for us,” he said.
Simon took his first shift 2 1/2 minutes into the opening period, alongside rookies Blake Comeau and Frans Nielsen on the Islanders’ fourth line, and heard a few cheers and louder boos when he hit the ice and touched the puck.
Simon has been visible recently at Islanders home games. He began practicing with his teammates last week for the first time since Dec. 15, the night he tripped Ruutu and then jammed his skate blade on the back of the Pittsburgh forward’s leg.
Two days later, Simon took a leave from the Islanders to seek counseling within the behavioral health program run jointly by the NHL and the players’ association. Just two days after that, NHL disciplinarian Colin Campbell handed down the suspension that covered more than one-third of this season.
“Si paid the price for his actions, kept his mouth shut and did what he had to do and he’s back,” goalie Rick DiPietro said. “We’re all happy to have him back.”
“It’s seamless, right back to where it was before,” Islanders captain Bill Guerin said of Simon’s return. “Unfortunately, he’s been through it before. He knows how to play one way and that’s the way he’s been successful, and I’m sure that’s what he is going to bring.
“There is no reason to change.”
“It’s good to have him back around,” Guerin said. “It’s kind of tough when guys are away like that … you kind of have to move along and just go about your every day. You don’t constantly talk about how much you miss a guy, but when you get them back it’s a big difference.”
Next level up or down?
We have the ongoing need for a center and we get WHAT??? Do nothing Risebrough strikes again. He has nothing in Houston that anybody wants, and already is complaining that he won’t be able to sign all of his free agents next year. Pretty bleak outlook if you ask me. But watch him spin the build from within commentary. It is getting old and there is NO ONE left to build from within. He makes Billy Smith look like a genius.
Im not one that insists that every team makes a blockbuster trade on deadline day, but seriously, Chris Simon????
What an embarrassing trade. I dont care if we gave up only a 6th rounder - that guy is a hack. And I genuinely dont think you can argue that - what has been his contributions to any team he was on, other than being in the right place at the right time with Colorado when they won the cup??
What an embarrassment.
This is terrible. What was DR thinking? Simon is a joke, and should have been tossed out of the NHL a long time ago.
I just don’t get it. We had an opportunity to get a decent rental center and DR couldn’t pull a trigger for any of them? You can’t tell me that we have to settle for Chris Simon…. suspension-prone Simon. Yeah we need toughness but we need scoreres and someone between Gaby and Demitra.
Give me a Break (in Jacques Lemaire tone)
still have pmb YES!
Or perhaps we are gearing up for another shot at the Ducks…I know how frustrated DR and JL were at the fact that they basically owned us last year in the playoffs and they were upset at the refereeing. They had geared up for the “NEW” NHL based on skating and passing and were dismayed to find that the league was regressing back to clutch, grab, dump and chase hockey!
I guess at least we can look forward to an old time bench-clearing playoff series (if we make the playoffs) where we kick some A$$ and try to make room for the Gabbys, PMB’s and Demo’s!!! That would be fun too…
Chris Simon is an outstanding person and individual (just in case he reads the blog and somehow gets a hold of our e-mail addresses, they are hidden, right Mr. Russo).
Purge Daigle, Dowd, White, nice.
Eliminate Kuba, Zyuzin, Mitchell.
Remove Weinhandle, Nazarov, Dupuis.
Drop Wyatt Smith, Manny and Dwayne.
Pick up Carney, Dimetra, and Parrish.
Sign Rolston, Johnnson, Backstrom.
Acquire Simon — doesn’t fit. Except Boogy has been missed. Did you see Calgary runnin the Wild? How about Edmonton? We need the enforcer to go to the Cup! Good move DR.
Good golly!! Ugh. This is disgusting.
Copyright Uncle Joe.
I would have held out for Charles Manson … geez, ya think the refs will be lookin’ for him to commit an infraction when he’s on the ice? We had better work overtime on the penalty kill.
Maybe the Canucks or Ducks will not be quite so quick to take liberties with the Wild skill players.
Remember, there was nobody to speak for Koivu when he had his leg broken with Ohlund’s stick.
GO SIMON!
Does this mean that we are going to be bringing a center up from Houston as I don’t think that we can continue with Demitra playing there when he was openly hoping they would do something?
Simon wears #12. I wonder if Rolston will have to fight him for it?? He better bring his knife… or better yet a baseballbat… screw it, just bring your gun Rolston.
Simon will make a difference at least in pushing guys around okay but Atlanta was selling as were other teams and for 2nd 3rd and 4th round picks so we could have gotten Peca or Holik and DR has yet to announce a deal so??????????????
Well TSN is still posting trades, so maybe their is hope….
I would have traded Johnsson and his over rated, highly paid rear for some scoring. Risebrough just doesn’t get it.
So, who sits now that Simon is here?
I don’t think at this point in the season they are going to bring up Benny, but who knows?
I think what you see is what you get.
JDK-That one made me laugh.
I am going to keep an open mind regarding Simon, I just really thought we would get a center.
Simon will be a force out there. Nice pickup
I am still speechless. Why/how could this be our only move? TSN continues to report trades. Please tell me that there is one, buried there, that involves a center coming to Minny.
So will/can he play tonight?
Somebody Give DR a call he has some explaining to do!!
Remember, there was nobody to speak for Koivu when he had his leg broken with Ohlund’s stick.
I do remember that and found it disturbing that nobody went after Ohlund there. Still… Chris Simon?
Who are you going to recall from Houston, Serge Payer? Morten Madsen? Adrien Foster? Or bring Pouliot up and play him at Center like he did in Juniors? No, we stick with what we’ve got and save our playoff money for next year’s tickets.
This is a bad dream right, for all of us?
Also, I like the Don’s comment on the Hossa trade. Makes it more painful somehow.
I am someone who has called for more team toughness from the Wild. I am not sure that Chris Simon is going to inspire the kind of disciplined physical play I think we’re missing.
But i think iceman has a point, Chris Simon is much scarier than anyone currently putting on skates.
I have argued against the importance of the role of an enforcer but not everyone is as scary as Chris Simon. The guy’s a psycho, maybe he does make a bit of a difference in deterring stuff like what usually goes unanswered. (ex. Koivu)
Hey guys
I’m a Canucks fan, and I’ve had to hear you guys whine and moan about Matt Cooke for so many years, about how dirty he is etc etc.
And now you guys have THE BIGGEST NASTIEST GOON in the entire NHL. Not to mention Mr 2 minutes of ice time Pinky and the Brain Boogaard.
Please please don’t let us EVER hear you guys bitch and moan about Canucks being dirty players ever again.
And that goes for you Russo who has criticized the Canucks for being agitators and now you guys sign the biggest embarrassment in the league.
I hate it when Mike is right.
chris simon??? way to get ready for that playoff push… shoulda made a big splash. team is playing flat.. if this comes back to bite them in the butt… so many big names on the block thew wild had to land one. the current crew obviously isnt working. they have been “wildly” inconsistent(sorry!i had to)
He could possibly make it. Islanders are in NY tonight against Pittsburgh.
did mchale make that trade??? dr, its time to step down. that was pathetic. the rest of the west gets better and we get a convict
Oh goody. Added to the fact that my school doesn’t have Versus, this isn’t a happy Wild day for me.
Maybe if I go play 2K7 and slash Simon in the face I’ll feel better.
IIRC, the book on Simon is that he’s a teammate guys love and works his bacon bits off on the ice.
Obviously he’s got a dark side, and it gets him in trouble.
For that, I have no problem with people who think he shouldn’t be in the league anymore.
But I will say that he has every motivation in the world to play like the guy who has seasons of 49, 34, 31 and 27 points and not the guy who has suspensions in the 30-game range.
One fear I have is that he is unable to conform to JL’s defensive standards and ends up pulling Dominic Moore duty the rest of the way and in the playoffs (should we make them) this season.
Doug R. & Lemaire should be shown the door if they Wild fail to make the playoffs and get out of the 1st round.
Let’s face it….there are no free agent scorers that are going to want to come here and play for Jaques. Would you? They’re going to offer Gabby a fat contract in the offseason and he’s going to turn it down because he wants to play the way guys like Ovechkin and Kovalchuk are allowed to. He’s a scorer and he wants to score. He’s not going to stay here and play with Fedoruk and Voros on his line. Bye Gabby.
We aquire Belanger in the offseason and he comes out firing with Bouchard & Rolston. He’s having the best season of his career. What does Lemaire do? Shoves him to the 3rd and 4th line so we can listen to our annoucers ask “what’s wrong with Belanger?”. Answer: It’s tough to score with checking wingers on either side of you.
Guys like Koivu and Sheppard are getting buried on the 3rd and 4th lines while Fedoruk gets ice with Gabby and Demitra. Sheppard has as much talent as any rookie, but his numbers are low because he can’t get any quality ice time with good offensive players. All part of Lemaire’s “genius” i guess.
Say goodbye to Gaborik, Rolston, and Demitra. It shows to them that this team of Management is not willing to do something to sustain their future.
Hey Alan - Tell Ohlund and the rest of the idiots that free-cheapshot time is NOW OVER. And get some Depends for Burrows, who will wet himself the first time he’s on the ice with Simon.
Simon was what we need although we think our “pure” Minnesota hockey image might be blemished. I’m sure Simon will be talked to and somewhat brainwashed into being Minnesota Nice when he’s not on his skates.
Look, if the Wild doesn’t make the playoffs because they took Simon,all us playoff ticket holders have paid for next years’ season tickets!
When did Carl Pohlad buy the Wild?
In related news: One Pair Wild Season Tickets for sale. Willing to accept ANY offer.
New Thoughts
Well if in fact we didn’t get a center or make another trade then, lets dump Rado and Foy and Skoula and Hill.
Bring up Kalus and Benny Pouliot and Reitz and Belle and let them play for the rest of the season cause we showed today we are not going anywhere so let the young guys play!
So if there is no center coming and Simon is a left wing, could my idea of moving SRV (a LW) to center the checking line and thus freeing up Pavol to move back to wing with Mikko centering the Slovaks be a possibility?
Alan, I hate to say it, but you are right. We have no room to talk now. Simon is a straight up GOON.
Mo - I offer $1 for your season tickets
I hope the boys are more excited to play tonight than I am to watch now.
I am definitely one who thinks that Simon shouldn’t be playing hockey anymore. Not in the NHL, not in the AHL.
He obviously has some serious problem that causes him to snap and lose his senses. It’s just a matter of time before it happens again. His had his eight chances, and he doesn’t deserve another one.
Interesting that Columbus moved practically none of their people yet.
Bye Mo, we’ll fill those seats with real fans.
Well I am going to take the fact that Don has not posted yet as a sign that more deals are potentially in the works.
Rogue, what are you talking about? They moved Federov early.
TSN is saying trades are done. Such a disappointment from DR. I would rather we save that pick than go for Simon.
I’m seriously considering not putting up my playoff deposit - It’s just frustrating as can be
what happened to the 3 pending deals?
You would hope that Russo would tell us “be patient” or something if there was indeed something in the works though.
Damn.
Federov is only one guy.
DR pushed those pending deals off to the side to make sure that the Simon deal would work.
All that whining…so many years of whining….Ooooh Ohlund hit poor little Koivu…Oooh Matt Cooke made a hard check.
And now you have a criminally insane goon on your team.
What kind of revenge should Ohlund be waiting for? Murder, maybe?
It’s such hypocrisy! Now you Wild fans love goons all of a sudden?
So who are we calling up from Houston?
Foote left also to Colorado.
Russo’s Blackberry ran out of battery…and it doesn’t work at Verizon center (unless you’re a Verizon customer, of course!)
Alan, how many posts have you seen in favor of the Simon trade? Seems most people wish it never happened.
Alan, I told you.. You are right. Simon has no bussiness on a sheet of ice.
Forgot about Foote.
Yeah, we’re thrilled with the Simon pick-up, Alan.
MO I will offer you a Troy Williamson jersey for those tickets. It doesn’t have scuff marks from footballs or anything.
Is Alan’s last name Vigneault?
Alan, read some posts. Very few of us are happy with the deal.
Alan, maybe you should read before you post. There is not a single person on this site singing the praises of this pick-up. A couple are in the wait and see camp, but most are saying WTF. Go back in your hole.
don’t you dare to criticize JL. He’s the MR. UNTOUCHABLE here…though his coaching appears clueless rather frequently.
Alan, at least the guys Simon went after are still in hockey, can’t say that about Steve Moore, hypocryte. You probably cheered Bertuzzi when he did it.
who cares its a six round
Just thought I’d mention that about 110 more posts to 1000.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=230638&hubname=nhl
Apparently Simon has added to our “Rugged Core”… ugh.
Hey Alan - Remember a Canuck named Bertuzzi? I know the Moore family remembers him. Perhaps it’s time for the universal scales of justice to tilt back Vancouver’s way.
The way I see it Alan, is now you have every right to whine ans much as we do. If you’re going to hold it against the wild that they have a guy who has been a goon in the past, remember, Berturdzi, Cooke, Burrows…. We have a guy with a history. Seems we’re on an even playing feild as far as the dirty play goes.
i hate alan.
Alan, if you think that all of the sudden we ‘love goons’ then I think your reading comprehension needs a bit of work.
And why don’t you wait until Simon actually does something before complaining, I don’t remeber the Canucks fans stopping cheering for their team when Bertuzzi ended Steve Moore’s career.
So I guess what I am saying is. . .save it.
That’s one way to spin it, austin.
I hate Alan too…
If it was me I would call up Benny to see if he could build on what he did in the pre-season.
I admit that he hasn’t torn it up yet, but after not doing anything today is DR thinking that he has better options in Houston?
No, Moore and Koivu ‘deserved’ it in Alan’s mind. A mind is a terrible thing for Alan.
Hey Austin,
I may agree with you…but I think (now that I’ve taken my shower) maybe we’ll see if Simon is cheap here. Maybe a move to a new locale wil be the impetus he needs to play it more straight…I’ll not grant Adam any quarter whatsoever that “we’re now like/worse than the Canucks”…that will take a lot more than just picking up Chris Simon
Alan, we mostly hate the pick up of Simon. That being said, we still haven’t had anyone on our team put a bounty on a player and break his neck, ending his career. How’s your team done with that?
Only 100 more posts to go to get Russo to 1,000.
Alan’s a dink!
All we need now is to get Jody Shelly.
He is a Cansucks fan. I think his lack of comprehension is a given.
I’m excited about Simon. Other teams have been way too aggressive with our skill players lately. We’re a finesse team, but we need people who can downright frighten the Keslers and Cookes of the league into giving our skill players more space. This is a topic I’ve been learning quite a bit from “The Code” that I got for Christmas.
From a quick glance at the stats, it looks like he can score some too. He’s got 305 career points and is a plus-29.
Yes no one comments on JL. Why? We respect him, as do his players. He will scratch Simon unless we need him. Jacque will straighten out the lines soon…
Russo, we need some solace. I, for one am happy about PMB still being on the Wild but if they don’t extend him this summer my disappointment will be retroactive to Feb. 26.
Can Burrows get a pair of Depends on over his turtle shell?
Death to Alan!!!
wildfan311… you know who else was a sixth round? MARTIN LAPOINTE!!! He’s not a douche, and he is.. OMG! A F’N CENTER!!
That is what really lights my fire about this deal. We could ahve had a good leader, tough guy, that will not kill someone on the ice… instead we get Burtuzzi² (that is squared if you can’t see it…).
You’ve all been duped. Alan is just the pen name of Matt Cooke who wanted to harass Wild fans one last time. He found some time between packing and going over the Eastern Conference rosters to find out players he can spear.
I can’t believe this is the best trade we could come up with. Simon shouldn’t even be allowed to play in this league. I am not sure what DR is thinking but I don’t like it.
I am ready to cry guys. the only good thing is that PMB is still on the team.
I noticed that the Flames did nothing today and the Canucks traded Cooke for Matt Pettinger? So only the Avs got better in are division today.
Friday March 21st, hope Simon can keep from getting suspended until then.
WHY didn’t we get Holik?!? We probably could have gotten him for a 6th rd pick…
Look on the bright side- at least it isn’t the 2009 trade deadline day and we aren’t talking about the Gaborik trade sweepstakes… I’m going to be even bummier next year at this time
pmb YES!
We don’t have 6th, used it on Simon. 5th rounder was too much in DR’s mind.
I think DR will trade Gabbby in the offseason if he can’t sign him.
Gabby will either be signed or traded before next years deadline, IMO.
Cowboy, I was wondering the same thing… Holik would have been a decent little addition for cheap. Hell we could have gotten Federov for any of our popcorn eaters!
I’m saying instead of using the 6th rd pick on Simon, why not Holik?
PMB?!?! Who Cares?! If trading him would have improved the team then good! He’s a nice little player that skates well and that’s about it.
Hey Mo, I’ll pay face value for your season tickets. The only stipulation I have is that you DO NOT TELL A SOUL that I bought them. I have enough skeletons in my closet, and I certainly don’t need anyone finding out about this.
What’s the number to the suicide hotline again?
LETS TRADE JD14!
If we were at a bar right now, I’d buy a round of shots. A lot of you are way too strung up about this. Don’t worry, be happy!
Well… I liked El Gato’s idead of moving Veillieux to center. I mean, if we aren’t getting a center he way it is, Veillieux did ok as filler when Koivu was hurt. If you need experience, might as well put in Veillieux if he has some recent practice and experience. We’re just gonna have to make the best of the situation. I’m not jumping for joy over the Chris Simon Affair, but with the bandwagon herd thinning out we can’t not be loyal to our team. We have to find a way to complain about what we can do now and offer our expert opinions using our new “bank” of players.
Nothing we can do or speculate now… time to watch and see…
Russo better be grilling dr on why no center help, since he hasn’t posted. Also maybe Simon will need to avoid suspensions to get another contract from someone next year?? maybe??
BenDover, if we don’t give you the hotline number, do you promise to commit suicide?
Russo, make a sound if your still alive…
Bet, that Cooke is glad he will not be seeing the Wild 8 times per year with Simon around. Maybe Kessler and Burrows will feel the same way.
Look at it this way people, the Wild skill players have been smothered by the opposition. Maybe between Simon and Fedoruk the lanes open up just a little bit. Maybe the heavy teams in the west give our boys a little more space with Simon around.
Maybe it is good to have our own psychotic around.
PMB is our best assister. “A nice little player” Puhleeze.
Russo is getting his ass kicked by Simon.
We don’t want Russo to pipe up yet, only 70 comments to 1000!
HELL TO THE YEAH AUSTIN!
Pierre just ripping Pitt for their trade with Atlanta.
Sorry but I couldn’t resist:
Here’s a name for you nostalgia fans: Clarence “Screaming Buffalo” Swamptown. I’ll never forget an exclusive interview in which Swamptown revealed that he calls his hockey stick the “Big Tomahawk,” and he usually refers to the opposing players as “the little scalps”….
Crap…there was a last trade and I was so hopeful…and it ended up being the Ducks.
Chris N - I could use a drink about now. Amazing how worked up one can get from hitting refresh and alt-tab all day!
wildfan311, I will always have PMB’s back. You don’t mess with that little french canadian!! 
Trading for injured Mike Sillinger would have been better than Simon
Greg, what was the trade, I don’t see it?
Right on, iceman. Don’t forget we still have Boogy waiting in the wings. Hopefully Simon brings enough foil to share.
Iceman has a point, I don’t know about you guys but I was pretty unhappy on Sunday watching Phaneuf have his way with Gabby with nobody to say anything about it.
I am still very puzzled why DR did not get a center, especially after he let Moore go earlier this year, but I do think that Gabby of all people may appreciate this move as it is more about protecting him (and PMB but Gabby is who they focus on) than anything else.
Also if Simon is to play tonight or tomorrow someone will have to go on waivers? Foy and Branco ar obvious possibilities but I wonder about Nummi as well.
maybe the team will rally around the thought that management believes the pieces are in place to make a run. i look for a big effort tonight and a convincing win. as for we the fans;DR kicked us right in the b*lls
Not with moves like his.word!
Chris Simon!?! WTF!
This gives new life to a guy who should have been banned for life.
This is an embarassment.
Did I miss something? OJ didn’t move right?
Dude,
Buying season tickets to the Wild for face value (or otherwise) would essentially be commiting suicide at this point. So I guess that means yes?
Starbucks is closing down nationwide at 5:30pm for three hours. Russo must be too busy coffee loading right now to chime in.
Jim Carr: You’re not that far off with the ‘Slap Shot’ reference!!
Seriously folks, this team had a chance to improve itself today, and they blew it. Simple.
They blew it.
(I hope I’m wrong, but I really don’t think so!)
It appears OJ is still a panther although I haven’t been able to get the TSN site to load for about 30 minutes now.
so doesn’t the wild’s window pretty much end after this season? with Rolston and Demitra UFAs, thats 2 of top 4 scorers. Remember how the rest of the world thinks minnesota plays a defensive minded system, and calls us the borg? we aren’t going to be able to sign anyone who can put the puck in the net. this is great. good thing we kept the guy who won’t go in the corners or in front of the net. heaven forbid we score goals.
TSN was calling the Wild: “The scariest team in town.”
If PMB is such a stud, where was he in the playoffs last year? This team is fun to watch in the regular season, but it’s not built for the playoffs. If trading PMB would have changed that I wouldn’t miss him one bit.
Thanks, TSN has been in and out for me too. Imagine the traffic on that website today, forget 1000 posts here!
Ray Shero’s press conference has been delayed over 10 minutes… I want to know what the heck he was thinking.
DP- After the deadline, I believe you are allowed more than 23.
Also, keep in mind when pondering why DR didn’t do this or that, keep in mind that the CBA is more than 400 pages long. It’s a very complicated process, and only the GMs are privy to all of the information that goes into their decisions.
OJ is waiting for Al Cowlings to give him a ride in his white Ford Bronco.
Doesn’t JL have enough of a headache without bringing in a real head case to the team? He is going to retire soon, too.
I don’t know if I can trust DR to manage this team anymore.
Rogue-It was a nothing trade. The Ducks traded Bochenski, though I am not sure to who or for what.
It’ll be interesting to see how the Wild play tonight.
The PMB fans here have to be happy and who knows, maybe next year OJ and PMB will be on the same line. Of course, Gabby will have to be in Old Russoville for that to happen but oh well, I will agree PMB will continue to improve and now I definately hope the Wild gets his extension done.
we didn’t trade jd14 yet?he sucks!
Chris Simon?
I think Fight to the End is being taken a bit literally.
Ugh. I just threw up Day-Glo Orange in my mouth.
Greg, it was for future considerations.
Gotta admit..that Boogaard, Fedoruk, Simon line will be fun to watch if we get paired up with the Ducks again in the first round. Were the Hanson Brothers not available ?
I don’t think this does anything to fill our need for a
top line center or a big shut-down defenseman though.
I suck because I’m not ridding PMB’s jock? Would you rather have PMB or a chance at the cup?
adams cool. why isn’t jd14 cool?
Food!
JL and DR know more about what it takes to win in the NHL than any person on this blog.
I am sure they have a clearer view of our roster and its limitations as well as the opposition.
If desired players were too expensive and others not what they felt they needed I have no problem with it.
They have a great hockey history.
In six plus seasons, we have built a solid foundation and playoff contender. Lets see where we go from here, there are never any guarantees in sports.
So because we have PMB, we can’t get the cup too?? How does that work?
Settle down children…lets be realistic…the draft day sucked thanks to me.
I think all this talk that nobody will sign here because of JL’s system is fairly ridiculous. Other than Gabby who thinks he could score 100 goals if he played in the east, most players I listen to talk about how much they like playing for this organization in this market. The wild are 16th in the NHL in goals per game, not 29th. Also free agents generally go where they are offered the best contract. The sky is not falling.
Clearly Hossa and Jokinen were just too expensive and I don’t really want DR to overpay at the trading deadline out of panic. Now I am not drinking the kool-aid (okay maybe a sip or two) I am unhappe and really quite puzzled as to why DR did not get a center as there were clearly guys out there who would have been relatively cheap. Maybe Simon’s presence opens things up for the O a bit, who knows? And I disagree that we needed more scorers, we have plenty of scoreres but we needed a center who can get them the puck. But I am willing to wait and see what happens this year before declaring the franchise dead.
i hate u jd14!
Hmm, d’you think DR had a damn good reason to pick up ANOTHER wing when we already have too many but we need a center? Not to mention that he happens to be complete clown shoes.
I wasn’t expecting much, but this is totally a new low.
I hope for ALL the Wild fan’s sake, that the team can make it into the playoffs and do some damage. 311, you don’t get it. I’m not saying that I think PMB is no good. I’m saying if trading him would get us what we need then so be it. You have to give something to get something. I’m sorry if I don’t feel that standing pat is helping this team any. But if watcing PMB skate around with the puck is why you watch the Wild and you don’t care about wins, then enjoy him while we have him. Keep in mind, there’s no garauntee he’ll even be here next year.
Harumph, iceman.
Why are you all ganging up on me. I am an amatuer figure skating coach at an elementary school, and that alone makes me smarter than all of you when it comes to a shating-intensive sport like hockey.
I wish we had kept the 6th rounder and traded PMB for Simon.
Wild coach Jacques Lemaire said the team made the move because it was concerned enforcer Derek Boogaard would not return this season. Boogaard has missed much of this year with a back problem.
http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/15995647.html
Shating-intensive? Sound like you need some Immodium…
What are the Wild waiting for? There were some really great options out there at center: Jokinen, Lang, Holik, Peca. Any of these guys would have been a step up for the Wild and the majority of them would have provided the physical presence that the Wild need. An argument could be made for not mortgaging the future, but if the Wild lose Demitra and Rolston in the offseason and are unable to resign Gaborik, there is no future. I really doubt that the Wild will be able to make the playoffs.
Dougie R needs to step up and make some deals. Building from within is a great idea, but when there is reportedly little value down in Houston, how can you say you are building at all?
984
need a few more to get this over 1000
“JL and DR know more about what it takes to win in the NHL than any person on this blog.” - Thats deep, the problem is that this team can’t do a thing in the playoffs. JLs genius system is the most boring thing to watch, and fans are getting sick of watching our squad losing in the first round.
Seems like a lot of people were not impressed with Peca.
Any Center… even Moore, would have been more welcome than Simon. I can;t believe it still… BUt hey, maybe all is not lost. maybe he will pan out. It still makes me want to throw up though.
We needed a center, and DR failed
Figured the pickup of Simon had to do with Boogaard’s back injury….
bring back wes walz
Still no Shero press conference.. maybe he’s working on an extension with Hossa.
993
jd14, let’s not start a pissing contest here. There are plenty of knowledgeable people who post to this board so trotting out your credentials seems pretty juvenile. You have opinions on what we should’ve done…good. That’s fine. But other people have different opinions.
Man, we should be at a bar. I think a beer or two would mellow the mood around here a bit.
What ever happened to the Robert Lang talks? And if I heard right there were tornadoes in central Florida today so there were huge power outages. What if this has something to do with the OJ talks?
could use a beer
It still asks the question…we still need a center…where do we get one now?
I second the bar idea, this is painful
Have we hit 1000 posts yet?
1000!!
yes
I don’t drink. It messes with my triple axels.
WRT, there has to be a FA, or UFA out there this summer that we can get on the cheap. Hopefully.
Maybe since we picked up a good UFC candidate, now we can get a good UFA candidate. Working our way backwards alphabetically, I guess…
JD14 said: PMB?!?! Who Cares?!
I agree completely. He’s a good little skater and passer with lots of assists. But so what. Has this guy EVER gone into the corner and come out with the puck? He belongs in a no-check men’s league or at the pond hockey tournament where he doesn’t have to worry about getting any boo-boos. I say trade PMB. I’d prefer a lesser skilled player with more heart
We’ve been fed. If you don’t get it, stay here and talk amongst yourselves.
Russo started a new thread, maybe the server blows up at 1000. And I HATE the cowboy! What’s the deal with that?
Its over before it even started. we still flock to the turnstiles like lemmings. that way the front office has no pressure. we will lose our top scorers and never be able to sign any. we also have nothing in the system, so we have that going for us. we have some solid D-men locked up, but if no one can put the puck in the net, then we are lost. sadly, I see the only chance for the team being to get a new coach. I have nothing against JL at all. don’t get me wrong. we will not be able to sign anyone with our current coach/system and the negative connotation that it receives from everyone.
I say you are retarted if you don’t want PMB. He is young, and very talented. He gets driven into the corners all teh freakin time, by MUCH larger players, and he still comes out with the puck. For his size he does a great job of protecting the puck. He probably “sees” the ice better than anyone else on the team. I am done with you clowns. Go Troll somehwere else.
Hey AustinTXwildFan:
I say you are retarded if you think the word “retarded” is spelled “retarted.”
But, I also see your point.
Ha ha. And now Matt Cooke is gone from Vancouver so you have no enemy number one anymore!
And btw, you guys seem to think people in Vancouver loved and supported Matt Cooke. No! Cooke was probably the least popular player on the team for several years now.
I just think it’s funny that you now have chris simon on your team.
The Wild fans are the whiniest team in the league. Even Russo wrote an entire article crying about how the Canucks are “agitators run amok” (his words) and now you have one!
It’s great! Serves you right…
aj25, type-o’s happen. My bad. I am just a bit riled up at the moment. Don’t take it personally.
Alan, give it a rest. Go back to your nuckelheads and draw hearts and roses for Naslund and The Twins.
I am very tired of every trade deadline comming and going seeing the wild do nothing. For how long are we going to “build for the future”? we choose not to give up some of our prospects the probably will not amount to anything, and watch teams such as our rivals (stars and aves) get incredibly better, by trading some of their prospects. Some may argue that we did make a trade and all i have to say is that is garbage. We got a powertool on skates who just got back from slashing a guy in the face…I would rather have McSorely!
Somebody needs to tell Risebrough that you do not win games by getting the most penalty minutes. Lastly, people may say that we do not have the cap room to get these players, and i realize that the math my not add up. My only question to this is how do the wild have only approx 3 mil cap room and the wings have close to 5 mil of room and a 16 point lead on us? sounds like a horrible front office to me!!!
simons’bright side: the ankle he tried to sever was belonging to jarko ruutu!
Lank, the Wings have incredible deals on their star palyers. Look at http://www.nhlnumbers.com for the details. It’s sickening.
Oh and, Simon just came back from stomping on Ruutu’s foot wit his skate. The slash to the face was last year.
Cheer up, not all is lost. We still have a ton of young talent.
Oh goody just what we need, 9 forwards with 0 offensive skills. Playoffs may be a stretch this spring.
DR is making Billy Smith look like a genius. Are DR and T. Ryan one and the same?
It’s okay guys, one day he’ll get so mad in practice that he’ll stomp on Pinky and the Boogard’s leg and then they will both be gone. Don’t worry.
My bad on the ankle, with all these suspensions I just get confused. We needed a player for when Gabby’s groin goes out as it always does, and Demitra may not be far behind?
ok im sorry but who in there right mind thinks we need a thug? exp one who i would maybe hire to bump someone outside of hockey.
maybe we tried for quality players but this move gets a super thumbs down from me.
Just stupid no other way to say it.
The Wild once again have let the fans of hockey in Minnesota down. When they were sold just a short time ago we listened to new ownership make the promise of I’ll do whatever it takes to bring a Championship to St Paul. The quote should have been I’ll do whatever takes to clean out the pockets of Wild Hockey Fans and leave mine full of cash. Chris Simon what a joke!! He doesn’t represent Minnesota Hockey. The final quote from the one of the greatest defensemen of all time Johnny Upton “What did they trade for this guy a sixth round draft choice and a used puck bag”. Chrysler Plant here they come.
Who wouldn’t want Happy Gilmore on their squad?
Very disappointed in the Simon trade. I can’t support a team that has a guy on it that I believe shouldn’t be playing anymore. I’d rather not make the playoffs than have a clown (can’t say a ‘man’) like Simon on our team.
who wants to buy my tix so you can watch Simon step on and slash real players?
Doug and Jacques, you should be ashamed.
What a waste and an embarrassment to the Wild. Seriously, Chris Simon?! He’s one of the dirtiest players in the NHL
well I hate to say this but ” I TOLD YOU SO”.
i said that nothing would happen on the big side of things and look and see DR is probably on his way to his vacation he worked so hard these last day and 1/2 getting the simon deal done.
while i still and always will cheer for the wild i’m thinking i’ll keep the money that i spend on tickets for some other use. it only costs 50 cents to read it in the paper, and even that has some use afterwords!
I find this trade to be quite disheartening like most of you. How much do you want for your tickets wildfanboycott?
disgusting. why waste a 6th round draft pick for a human piece of garbage who shouldn’t even be allowed to play in the nhl. i love hard nose hockey, but what he does isn’t even legal, and wouldn’t be anywhere except the pro hockey rink. how many of us would be walking away from bashing someone in the face or ankle with a hockey stick. what’s it going to take for him to be banned for life? i doubt the nhl will ever take this step… until it happens to a crosby, iginla or gaborik.
If you count shootout losses we are 14-22 against teams either currently in the playoffs or hovering close i.e., FLyers & Avs.
I think that story is pretty telling.
Very good point about the record against good teams…but unless the NHL allows Simon to slash goalkeepers in the head as Gaborik puts the puck in the net, this trade doesn’t help.
Decided to donate my remaining tix to charity for a silent auction…will make my disappointment feel a little better…question is, will the IRS allow me to deduct the full face value now that Simon is on the team??
Just had to put my 2 cents worth in. Then be off, you folks have said it all. Bad move, picking up a person that should have been banned from the league.
I realize Boogie is hurt, but this is still wrong.
If I was one of the so called big shots on the team I would be big time disappointed, just as the Twins were this year when they dumped instead of picking up someone.
Fans need to stop showing up at that games, hit them in the pocketbook and then maybe things will change, should have a one game boycott or something.
DO NOTHING DOUG STRIKES AGAIN
Okay Wild fans, our do nothing GM Risebrough has completely failed the state of hockey. We nedded a center the past 2 seasons and he give us SIMON? He says we are going to build from within yet Houston has no one. I predict the Wild will now miss the playoffs as their competitors got stronger. I just hope the new owner fires Risebrough’s do nothing butt. Risebrough stresses patience…patience is another word for cheap or lazy….you choose.
The Wild aquire Simon.
Forsberg joins a team 5 games out of the playoffs in the Western Conference.
Who made the worse decision?
‘…will the IRS allow me to deduct the full face value now that Simon is on the team??’
Without a doubt. If by chance you are audited, provide them a printout of this blog. Once the feds see that DR didn’t even bother to kiss you before having his way with you, they will be forced to use the audit report as kleenex when their tears begin to flow.
Oh the humanity!
So GM Risebrough has to hit credit…..
acquiring Dominic Moore
acquiring Hitman Simon
FIRE THIS GUY NOW!!!
Yuck, this is what makes hockey a minor league sport: the goons. And to think we actually traded for this slug.
Wow, Caps are up 2-0 already. Wild look slow and tired. Guess the trade for Simon didnt fire everybody up to win. What a suprise.
Yes, if only we had another center. But I am sure Risebrough will get one prior to the trading deadline. He isn’t that stupid….is he?
Skoula and Johnsson are already a minus 1 tonight. These are the 2 biggest stiffs we have on defense. Why not trade these yahoos?
Johnsson is not tradeable. No one in their right mind would inherit that salary $6M… Great signing
Like many of us here, I have been a Wild fan since Day 1, but this is absolutely the most disappointed that I have been as a fan. If they weren’t going to add talent to make a run this year, they should have sent Demitra and Rolston away for young talent, which apparently we don’t have to offer anyone. This team cannot compete in the Western Conference as is, so moves needed to be made either for now or the future. What does it take to get a decent GM in this town, because we are 0 for 4.
Casey - you are right! Here we are at the top of the division, a pickup could really make a difference, and we do NOTHING NOTHING NOTHING! I guess they realize that if the fans protest as we did with the Stars, we can lose the team, so we will quietly live with mediocrity once again.
Yeah, another wonderful Risebrough move….Johnsson and his 2nd highest salary on the team. The Wild should fire Risebrough now before he takes over the reign of ineptness currently held by Kevin McHale.
Can someone answer this question. Skoula who is a minus gazillion is never scratched. Carney who is a plus 10 is scratched more times than not. Is Lemaire a blooming idiot or does Skoula have some upside I am not aware of. Perhaps Skoula has pictures, but I have often wondered why Carney does not get more playing time that the complete joke of a defenseman Skoula.
Ugh ugh ugh I still feel like I’m going to be sick. Simon is exactly what’s WRONG with hockey these days. So much for trying to stay ahead in the western conference…And here’s to being laughingstock of the NHL for picking up this goon
Maybe Risebrough can get Bryant McKinnie to lace them up and go on the ice. Dwight Smith is also available.
I would have been happier if DFR did nothing.
So long playoffs. Nice move GM Dougy. You have done nothing but sit at your desk collecting the big paycheck. A trained monkey could have done a better job improving the team this year. Heck, even an untrained monkey would be able to make a better trade. And thanks for stocking up on the young talent you are always talking about…WHERE ARE THEY….HOUSTON. What a joke. Dougy Risebrough is over rated and the new owners first act should be to replace this Do NOTHING GM.
Hey Doug, why not pick up Bertuzzi & Ohlund while we’re at this? I hope Simon gets booed at his first home game. What a terrible, terrible decision.
Two periods into the Capitals game and wow do the Wild look terrible. They are even making excuses on VS for how they are playing.
Today, the NHL network laughed at the Simon move. They said the only reason we got Simon was because the Hansen brothers weren’t available. Another Minnesota team that expects us to be happy with mediocrity.
Predictions….
Wild will either not make it past the first round of the playoffs again this year or miss the playoffs altogether.
GM Dougy will be gone after next season when the Wild fail to make the playoffs.
Here is the scary thing, Risebrough already said the will not be able to sign all 8 of his free agents. Which means..Houston..we have a problem…and part of that problem is Houston. There is not a single player on the Houston roster what would make our team. If they are now forced into action next year to replace the Free Agents who leave, what are the odds the Wild would be a better team next year…zero. Risebrough has lived on borrowed time and his day of reckoning is coming very soon.
Hey Risebrough….how is that first round draft choice AJ Thelen doing???
timby, the ruin of regional assets, such as hockey teams & their rivalries,ie.Norris Division was ruined in the late 1980’s with centralization of media, the destruction of natural rivalries, the emasculation of the sport worldwide(no one had visors), and Lawyers & Bean Counters who continue to intervene in our lives. Have no doubt that the one who expects government to provide everything, to take it all away
Rumor has it the Wild’s ECHL affiliate, the Texas Wildcatters, are struggling to find a place to play next year. For a franchise that was once considered to be a model that other teams should follow, they sure are having issues. And if success is determined by playoff victories, the Wild franchise is far from being the model.
Chris Simon for a 6th round pick?
This could be the best move the NHL has seen since the 81′ MN North Stars were competing for Lord Stanleys Cup. As I recall,bobbySmith,dinoCiccarreli,stevepayne,craighartsburg,almacadam,neilbroten,gordlane,bradmaxwell,timyoung,stevechristoff,mikeeaves,garysargent,jackcarlson. It could be just the addition needed to open the ice and prevent any donnybrooks.
Part of the problem is not Houston. Most of the problem is Houston. Look at the draft picks this team has made in the last few years. Sadly, many of them haven’t even surfaced in Houston yet. There is no talent, whatsoever, in Houston and apparently nothing on its way soon. Our drafting has been pathetic….and our player development has been marginal at best. In seven years we have 4 or 5 decent players that have been developed. Gaborik, Burns, Kouivu and Pierre Marc Bouchard. Wow! Pretty anemic.
This team needed to shake things up today….but they didn’t have to because we continue to baaa like sheep and fill the X.
This just in: To clear room on the roster for Simon, Martin Skoula has been placed on waivers. Could it be…
Putting Skoula on waivers would be a wise move. That’s why it won’t happen.
Let’s see, the Wild are 4-5-1 in their last 10 games, are having trouble scoring goals, but decided to get a goon. Risebrough is an embarrassment to Minnesota fans and Minnesota hockey. Goons like Simon should be eliminated from playing pro hockey. Risebrough couldn’t make a trade to better the team, so to save face and give the appearance he is trying SOMETHING, he pulls off this boneheaded trade.
I have friends in Calgary who thought Risebrough ruined the Flames. Now he’s ruining the Wild. Sean Hill tough guy who was suspended for for some sort of drug use. Chris Simon whose had as many chances as Steve Howe, Darryl Strawberry and Dwight Gooden combined. This is a model franchise in how to make money at the expense of “so glad hockey is back” ticketholders. But as far as a model franchise, give me a break. No farm system, poor drafting, poor scouting, unwilling to spend money to address needs. I have been writing about my dislike for Risebrough for several years, often to criticism. Finally there are some who are seeing the light. The team of 18,000 is really the team of owners. Not a good start for the new owner either. Looks like Nagele getting out at the right time. The jury’s out DR. The plan you borrowed from the Timberwolves didn’t work. Think of it this way DR. The more goons, the less people that can score on a team that already has a tough time scoring. And it gets worse in the playoffs. Particularly when our goons, also known as marked men by NHL refs, are in the penalty box.
This is the “trade” the Wild make?!?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!?? What a joke?! Yes, if its true they can dump Skoula, Great! all the better! This guy is a THUG and a punk! He has more suspensions than games played in his NHL career I think, LOL. The wild are going down the same drain the Twins have gone down.. Just good enough for mediocrity. Not great… not even good enough for a cup, just barely good enough. What a joke! New management might be needed.. Just think..almost all the Western Conf playoff teams got better in 24 hours! The wild, as usual MN teams sit in their hands and do what should be considered NOTHING! Gimme a break!!
P/S Russo: Get some better sources than Ecklund.
As Burnside from ESPN states below;
The Islanders send Chris Simon to Minnesota for a sixth-round pick
This is our favorite trade of the day. With Derek Boogaard and Todd Fedoruk already entrenched in Minnesota, we’re wondering if coach Jacques Lemaire will form a Mensa Line with the three brutes. With Sean “I didn’t know it was a banned substance” Hill in the lineup, Minnesota has become the home of second and/or last chances for wayward NHL players. The bottom line is, a team plagued by inconsistency of late did nothing to address that problem. They will, however, scare the bejeebers out of opponents, which is something.
Impact-o-meter: 0.5
Again, Risebrough should be shipped out of Minnesota for embarrassing the state of hockey.
Bottom Line…..1 goal, 2 assists in 28 games. I guess here is the scoring punch we need for the playoff run!!!! Does Risebrough have a job lined up with another NHL team and he is intentionally trying to ruin the Wild and give the State of Hockey a bad name. It certainly appears this way.
An impact day for this franchise. Realty has set in and it’s evident this club is not close. They have managed, in SEVEN years, to assemble 5-6 good/very good players, surrounded by little else. With inept offense, leaky defense & no farm to turn to in the near future.
Can they rebound and at least make the playoffs…or are we seeing the Wild becoming a gutless, heartless club…
It’s go time! Let’s see if they can circle the wagons…and rally the troops!
Message to the Wild Management….Minnesota fans are not bloodthirsty. We are sophisticated and have enjoyed watching NHL hockey. But the honeymoon is over. Time for the team to play for a cup. Sure, you made tons of money by paying under the salary cap and putting an entertaining albeit boring trapping team on the ice. But the time is long overdue for the management to step up and make the team better. Risebrough and the owners failed the Minnesota fans. Guess they think their season ticket base is solid and fans will cheer and pay even if we to one and done in the playoffs yet again. Boy…..the Wild Management are under estimating the Minnesota fans.
It will be telling how this team attempts to rebound from their current struggles.
Wow, what a bummer. I feel duped. The new owner really had me going with the Cup and the Forsberg talks. It seems that all Minnesota teams go this way, butter you up for the money then let you down. Not only did DR let us down but he spat in our faces. Simon is a no-goodnick with nothing to offer our team. Did DR pick his name out of a hat… ouija board perhaps? Did the new owner (forgot his name and not worth looking it up, as I have already given him a new moniker) approve this action or non-action? Forget it.
GO HABS!
Lets get this straight about Sean Hill, he claims to have received a tainted supplement, he was already receiving medically cleared testosterone treatments and all previous and subsequent tests never showed any trace of any banned substances. He has taken lie detector tests so there is no reason not to take Hill at his word, he has never done anything on or off the ice to make anyone question his character (except maybe going to UW). He’s not playing well at all but quit the stupid references to his drug test without the full revelation of the facts.
JEES, DID YOU SEE THE CHRIS SIMON HIGHLIGHTS ON YOUTUBE? A GREAT TRADE TO FIRE UP A VERY BORING TEAM THAT LATELY PUTS ME TO SLEEP.BOOGAARD IS GONE FOR THE YEAR AND SIMON MAKES THE GAMES MORE PHYSICAL. AT LEAST THERE IS A NAME WE CAN PRONOUNCE. THE WASH GAME WAS AN EMBARRASSMENT FOR NATIONAL TV. SOMEONE HAS TO STICK A BOOT UP THEIR BUTTS AND GET SOME MOMENTUM BACK. STICK A FORK IN THIS TEAM IF THEY GET BEAT BY THE FLORIDA TEAMS. WHERE IS MARK TANORDI WHEN WE NEED HIM……
Fans disappointed, alienated by mind-numbing pick up.
Simon, roughly the same size as skilled scorer and physical player Ryan Getzlaf, is worth only punches when the wild are looking to win hockey games. At least Boogaard could draw penalties. Never more upset with Lemaire, Leipold–nice statement, forget about skill.
First a steroid cheater in Sean Hill and now a guy with more baggage than Elton John on the way to Mardi Grax. Good luck getting Minnesotans to buy your stupid NHL package Dougy.
Is there any reason to be excited about this team anymore? They need a play making center who can also win face-offs and punishing defence man. So they trade for a guy who been suspended more games then he has played?
This is beginning to be an annual trade dead line tradition- the Wild getting junk instead of getting better.
No trade deal not about Simon; its about Riesbrough not doing his job.
Team of 18,00 did its job.
How long before our set-in-his ways coach is criticized for what’s happening to this team? The media is too enamored with his cute accent and funny quips. Do we have to wait until this curmudgeon chases away Gaborik, the only player left in the TC worth the price of admission (Adrian Peterson is just about there)? It’s time for this old man to go.
Time for DR to go. New ownership, same old story…. Yawn.
For all of you spouting that the Wild should have gone after a scorer…. Name one that was available other than Hossa or Jokinen?? Jokinen made it clear he didn’t want to move and the price tag for Hossa was astronomical if you look at what Pitt gave up. How did that work for Atlanta, or the Nashville last year??? If you give up that much and the player walks after the season you are left with NOTHING!!! I would have loved to see Jokinen come here as he is a special player, size, strength ,passing and scoring. As far as Simon they basically got him for the price of a used 74 Gremlin with 200k on it. I hope this decision wasn’t made to a career ending type injury to Boogaard!!!! And for god sakes can somebody anybody except Veillux CHECK SOMEONE!!!
(i know i’m pointing out the obvious) the wild, like everyone else, has known that the center position hasn’t been great here, but it’s only now because of crucial situations that people have been paying closer attention to it. i think that the most disappointing part of the trade deadline, wasn’t the simon deal, but it was the lack of a deal for a center when everyone clearly knows it’s where the wild need to improve. they need to be able to win a faceoff anywhere to be able to create scoring chances, and by the scores lately, you know that they haven’t been doing that
Doug - go back and ask Bobby Smith, Dino, Al McAdan or Steve Payne if they will come back and play again. We need them to get through the playoffs. This trade was lameo.
Like just about everyone else in the State of Hockey, I am completely appalled that we would go out and get Simon, as well as thoroughly disappointed that we failed to add any skill players… But I for one am willing to partially suspend judgment on Doug for this until I see what Simon does with us. If he cleans up, keeps the hits clean and cuts down on the stupid penalties while playing some quality hockey (somewhat like what Fedoruk, although without a reputation nearly as colorful, has done here) I will tolerate him quietly. I think he is an idiot and a terrible person, and I regret that he is in a Wild sweater, but if he plays good hockey and cleans up his act, I can’t entirely blame Doug on this one… If this turns out to be the case the blame should be on Doug more for not getting a center or defenseman than for getting Simon.
