Season Wrap-up Day
Posted on April 21st, 2008 – 11:08 AMBy Michael Russo
I know, I know, the worst day of any hockey season. I’ve got to tell you though, watch the playoffs. The games have been tremendous, so it still should be an exciting next couple months.
I mean, if Boston knocks off Montreal, there might be another riot there.
First, I’ll be on KFAN at 2:20 p.m. and WCCO at 9:30 p.m. I know, I’m tired of myself too.
This is going to be a little short because I have tons to write so I put together a quality package for tomorrow.
But tonight at some point, I will throw up a much bigger blog, including partial Q&A’s with Jacques Lemaire and Doug Risebrough from 1-on-1’s I had with them this morning. I’ll also include tons of quotes from players, etc.
As for actual news today:
– Branko Radivojevic has a torn ACL, will undergo a right knee reconstruction and be out four to six months. He’s an unrestricted free agent, and he reminded me (which I feel guilty about now) that a week before the end of the regular season, I asked Radivojevic — and Brian Rolston and other possible free agents for that matter — if he worried about his future when he saw that an unrestricted free agent like Brendan Morrison tore his ACL. Radivojevic said absolutely not, then knocked on wood.
It didn’t work. He’s a free agent and now his future is in bigtime peril.
Risebrough seemed to indicate that Radivojevic will be cut loose, that retaining Kurtis Foster was a different situation because he’s a restricted free agent.
– Like I said, you’ll get a lot of stuff tonight, but I will tell you Jacques said this decision to or not to return is no different than any season. He’s up there in age (62) and wants to make sure he still has the fire and has certain questions answered by Doug Risebrough.
He did say he’s never had a harder time getting a team to play like a team in the regular season. He felt the team played exactly the way he finally wanted it to in the playoffs, and that’s why it’s a shame they’re out.
Risebrough was phenomenal on this subject, which you’ll see tonight and in tomorrow’s paper.
– Derek Boogaard said he will not have back surgery.
– Rolston reiterated he wants to be back, as did Pavol Demitra, Todd Fedoruk, Aaron Voros and Radivojevic. Matt Foy doubts he’ll be back. I did not see Keith Carney, and I’m not sure if Kent got him, but he’ll almost certainly play elsewhere (and will be missed by his teammates).
– PM Bouchard wants a long-term deal. Marian Gaborik did say an extension would be good this summer because a Marian Hossa-like distraction could ruin the team.
– Petteri Nummelin admitted his NHL career has ended and he’ll play next season in Europe. Sean Hill says he wants another NHL job and can still play.
– Mark Parrish said this is the most frustrating season he’s had personally, wants to get away from hockey for a little bit and then will work his hardest in the offseason to come to camp in great shape and pray for a clean slate.
– Benoit Pouliot and Erik Reitz were sent back to Houston for the playoffs.
– As the days go on, you’ll hear of Wild players committing to their national teams to play in the world championships, especially because the tournament is in Halifax and Quebec City.
Mikko Koivu is the only one I know of that has already committed to Finland. He plans to visit his brother, Saku, and his kids this weekend and stay in Montreal until he meets up with the Finns.
I talked with somebody in the know from Team Canada today, and he indicated that Bouchard and Brent Burns will be asked. Bouchard hasn’t heard from Canada yet, but he said he would definitely play if asked.
I’ll throw some more up as I transcribe, but like I said, I’ll throw up so much stuff later tonight on the future of the team, I promise it’ll ruin your work day tomorrow.
250 Responses to "Season Wrap-up Day"
Sad to hear about Radivojevic. Branko did get better as the season wore on, once he found his niche. Hopefully DR isn’t making a Brunette-like mistake, even though coming off a torn ACL for any athlete is risky.
Agreed with WRT on Radio improving during the season.
That said, I really don’t think it’s the end of the world if he doesn’t come back. (I also think some of the hyperbole directed at Foster’s value has been a little much, too.)
Sean Hill says he wants another NHL job and can still play.
I want some of what he is smoking
Could the Wild sign Branko to a two-way contract so that we can retain his rights and let him rehab in Houston? Or is that even legal within the CBA? Would that affect the cap?
It’s also heartening to hear that Rolston and Demo want to be back. Based on their performances this year would indicate they ought to trade contracts. Give Demo 2.5 per and Rolston 4 per.
Likewise with Voros and Fridge, although I’m inclined to let Voros walk because he’s undisciplined.
Altruistically, I am sort of happy that we were able to help a son of Minnesota get his career - such as it is - back on track (such as IT is).
But I will not miss Hill one bit.
Nummy, on the other hand, I will miss a bit. Not much, but a bit.
Russo, I just wanted to thank you for your blog and articles. You’ve done a spectacular job keeping us informed. I especially appreciate your “straight talk” when it comes to how the team and individuals are playing. It’s also good to hold Wild offical’s accountable for the team’s performance. They’ve done a lot of things right, but they’ve also made some serious mistakes on personnel. They can and should do better. Keep after them; they’re managing and coaching one of the most desirable franchises in pro sports.
Green*…the Wild did not get tougher. The perimeter players still played on the perimeter. Not only that, but Simon, Boogaard didn’t prevent Lappy from getting into MG’s head.
Too bad about Radio. As WRT said, he became more valuable as the season progressed.
I still don’t buy that Theodore was that ‘other worldly’. I think it had more to do with the Wild never having a close-in rebound easy goal. It seemed like the Avs scored more of those - because of defensive breakdowns.
Yeah, would it have mattered if Schultz and Foster could have played? You bet.
Could things have been different with Backstrom elevating his game ever further? Absolutely.
But, it is what it is. And the team will have a decidedly different look next year.
kj: did you ever get (real) mail from me?
Branko Radivojevic has a torn ACL
I mentioned his brass ones when he gutted out the game he got injured in but this is taking it to a whole other level.
He did say he’s never had a harder time getting a team to play like a team in the regular season. He felt the team played exactly the way he finally wanted it to in the playoffs, and that’s why it’s a shame they’re out.
couldn’t agree more. granted the playoffs ups then intensity, just the solid team play they had would have had the boys pushing detroit for the presidents trophy.
I would like to see Fridge stay. I wouldn’t miss Voros or Hill for that matter. Its going to be interesting to see what happens this off-season.
Russo was dead on about still watching the playoffs, the games have been awesome. I mean who isn’t going to watch the Bruins attempt a wild like comeback tonite?
the Wild did not get tougher
never said they did. i said that was all you heard in this town last year was how the wild were a bunch of pansies. we needed “grit”. i said then and still believe that our emphasis on trying to be like the fowl cost us some scoring.
NiNY…I did…thanks!
Also, I need to know what size/color t-shirt. If you told me b4, I lost it. I have light green and dark blue.
I mean who isn’t going to watch the Bruins attempt a wild like comeback tonite?
i wouldn’t mind being in centre bell tonight. versus will have to do unless CI has the CBC feed.
what about the potential colorado/detroit series? i can’t stand watching detroit play but would watch that one.
kj: L, dark blue if you got it… Thanks!
Green*…I gotcha. You pointed out that everyone wanted more toughness when in actuality, everyone wanted Getzlaf, Penner and Perry… 
Posted at the end of the last one.
NiNY Buy two, get one? We’ve only got one. Gaborik. Demitra and Radio are UFA and so technically not tradeable unless we sign and then trade.
That’s exactly one of the reasons why Gaborik doesn’t sit well with me. The fact that we have to sign another player just to keep him happy. I understand signing a player to play with another (he needs a center to complement) but to sign them simply because of a friendship?
Cool NiNY…I will send it out tomorrow
BTW…thanks to everyone on this blog (yeah Multiple Mike - even you) for making this a very enjoyable hockey season…and of course, the Don for making it all possible.
I think when I was watching the Stars finish off the Fowl last night they said it was going to be shown on vs
It wont ruin my workday unless it is bad news!!
I also agree that Radio improved in the second half of the season, but he certainly is not irreplaceable and it would seem like he would need at least a year to recover from his torn ACL.
Agree with others about Hill, he was an absolute disaster in the playoffs.
I agree with kj that Theodore, while playing very well was not ridiculous, just always in position, the wild were not able to get the close rebounds or move the puck around quickly enough to force him to move. While Backs played well he did not elevate his game to the point where he could carry the team. Although many of the goals were not his fault, the Guite softie was the straw that broke the back. I think a lot of the credit goes to Colorado’s D, Foote and Salei both played very well.
I think the turning point of the series was the 2nd period of game 5 where the Wild completely dominated the play and yet didn’t score. I haven’t seen too many games where a team can dominate like that and lose. They never had the same energy after that period.
It will be a challenging offseason for DR and Leipold.
I’ve had my worked day ruined by this blog for 7 months now, what’s one more day.
Can’t wait for all of the info Russo.
Tough news about Radio. He seems to have found his role late in the season.
Boogey needs a bucket of pucks to play with this summer. He and his brother should take turns. One shoots, the other screens and tips. Forget the ‘fight camp’ unless they’re giving it for the remaining Wild players.
Goody: was (poorly) trying to be sarcastic. I don’t love the prima donna angle with Gaby either - though we don’t KNOW that he won’t sign here unless there are a couple other Slovaks around.
Demitra is a good player. Nine years straight of 20+ goals. This year he was 5 short of the 20 mark.
Its not as if we picked up a Foy or Hill because he was Gabby’s friend. That would not sit well with me either.
Agreed, Goody….as long as I don’t see Trevor Lakness selling “Boogey’s Screen and Tip Camp” t-shirts. Buttmuncher.
Michael Russo: I will send you a separate e-mail sometime today.
Russoville: I suppose this is the time, so thank you to all for putting up with me. After seeing 48 games in person (40 home, 8 road) and 8,941 road miles, it’s been a real trip this season.
With any luck and lots of hope, we shall do it again next season. To all of you who are only ’seasonal’ Russovillians, have a great summer. I’ll still be around, waiting for the 2008-09 schedule to be released about July 31st! (Gotta start planning next season’s trips!)
Of course, thanks right here to Michael for making all this possible. You are without peer in your profession. (and in this day and age, that is a considerable achievement.)
Bonne Chance!
KJ, for my money, it is a combination.
Theodore made the great saves at the right time, the Wild did not not always have guys going hard to the net, but when they did they did not get the puck bounce.
KGopher mentioned last week about how playing with injuries can make a serious problem worse. I wonder if Branko made his situation worse.
Y’know, I said all that and screwed up the game count.
54 games in person (40 regular season home, 8 regular season road, 3 playoff home, 3 pre-season home).
My math is ba-a-a-d.
Finally getting back to this blog after a terrible work week and not so pleasant wild results.
kj - and the rest of you that gathered at Tom Reid’s b4 game 5 - Sorry, I missed the gathering, was stuck at work late. I hope it was better then the game .
This will be an interesting off season for Wild management and fans. I’m sure we will have ample opportunity to follow and comment on developements on this blog. I look forward continute to share opinons with all of you.
WRT, I am impressed with your travels. I hope to do some of that in the next year or two. We probably saw 30 or so of the regular season home games (had business travel for some, unfortunately, and also had to give a couple to daughter and boyfriend when they visited) but listened to or watched virtually every road game. I will miss the season. Like baseball but it isn’t hockey and don’t care much for football (ruins the birdhunting season). But at least we have the Cup playoffs to watch even if we aren’t in them (but at least neither are the Ducks).
Poor Branko. I’ve always been a huge fan of his, so it’s sad to hear he may be out the door.
It’s tough to see any of the guys leave, but it’s hockey and you know it happens!
It’ll be interesting to see what unfolds.
I guess I’ll home for the Pens now, to support Kevin in PA. They’re a fun team to watch. I wouldn’t want to play them, I’ll say that much.
I am curious why there is speculation that Branko would not be retained?
NINY, but that’s the point Gabby should NOT be dictating the line-up, period. When he’s a coach he can do that.
Michael,
Your coverage of the Wild has been simply outstanding! Thanks for the “extra” time that you put in with all the blog updates throughout the season! I hope you know your work is greatly appreciated!
Mark
Risebrough seemed to indicate that Radivojevic will be cut loose
i think this is why
I’d guess if radio doesn’t have an offer by september and the wild have room, they would have a talk with him.
but that’s the point Gabby should NOT be dictating the line-up
did he really dictate the lineup? i know there was talk that he didn’t like this guy at center or that guy and that he wanted pav on the wing but how often over the last month if not half of the season, did #10 and pav play on the same line?
Thoughs from an Avs Troll..
You guys have a hell of a blog here.. I lurked on Russo’s Rants almost daily. It was quite frankly the best source for timely Avs/Wild info i could find on the net. I only wish the denver post had a blog this quality. (I think Dater could have a great blog)
Speaking of dont feed the troll, dont give in to Kizla’s bs. He is without a doubt the most hated sportswriter in denver by quality sports fans. We all want him gone too, but everytime you visit his page, he gets more hits and more reasons to stay..
The wild are a quality team with great fans. Obvioulsy Gaborik’s dissapearance was huge.. as an avs fan i was so proud of the job beloved D’come back Adam Foote did on that line. I have had enough years hearing about Lidstrom shutting down forsberg or sakic in a series, it was great to see Foote step up as a leader on that D and take on the wilds top line..
Dont hate the avs.. Theo obviously was the MVP of this series, but there is alot to like about this team. Forseberg must suck to play against, but he is a joy to watch, and Joe Sakic is everything that is right and good about hockey. He may not be around much longer so watching him make a playoff push in his twilight should be fun for any hockey fan…
That’s it, wanted to say thanks for making this series fun, you guys really are great hockey fans.. Go Avs.
So do you guys suppose…
Carney’s walking out the locker room door for the last time. Burns is sitting in his stall. Carney turns and says “hey kid… There… is… another… Sky… walker” He then turns and is gone.
Speaking of Star Wars, any chance we could get Carney to do the Vulcan Mind Meld on the other d-men before he leaves?
Joe Sakic is everything that is right and good about hockey
I believe this to be true.
isn’t the vulcan mind meld a spock thing?
I know the Vulcan Mind Meld is Star Track and not Star Wars, G*. I was just trying to see if I could torque off any sci-fi nerds. Uncharacteristic of me, I know, but I’m that kind of a mood.
didn’t torque me off, i am not sci-fi nerd.
I didn’t mean you, G*.
G*, For our top scoring line, I’d say he sure as h3ll tried dictating the line-up. I’d say he pouted about it, played when he wanted to play, complained when JL didn’t play him with who he thought he should and then maybe didn’t try as hard, made it difficult for JL to “control” the team, etc. Or do you see that lack of “control” as being from something else? If so, what?
Avs troll, you’re not a troll..trolls come in “You suck, you’re a douche”, etc. Yours was a reasoned post, we like those. We, at least I, don’t hate the Avs (except maybe JT 
) and I hope you do well, unless you’re playing Dallas…good luck to you.
LOL Goody
could have been the case early in the year but after the flap at the all star game about #10 wanting to play in the east, it appeared to me that he just played, no matter who was his linemates and he did well. I think #10 “got it” at one point during the 2nd half of the season and was a better player for it.
Thanks to all of you- during the play off games I would refer to #3 as Yoda… the people sitting next to me didn’t get it.
I doubt that most Wild fans hate the Avs–now Flames, Ducks and Canucks–different story. I actually like the Oilers–fast, young, skating team without cheap shot artists.
Hey Mike I did not read all the comments but what is the chance that a least some of the Worlds will be shown on the NHL Network?
I don’t care much for Laperriere. Or McLeod. Or Forsberg. Or Guite. Or Foote.
Other than that, I’ve got no problem with their team.
This off season should be very interesting
This was not a playoff loss to be ashamed of at all.
It is not where you start, it is where you end up. Where Gabby’s attitude ended the season is where you want it to be for a team leader.
Some keys on player signings. If a FA or trade is available to do the work of Radio but is a scorer too then maybe it would be a good move. But, at what price?
Although if Radio’s recovery is 4-6 months, what team will make any offer until they see he can even play again?
JL appeared to like Radio a lot, so it would seem odd for DR to be so willing to jetison him easily.
Ok G* fair enough, guess I’m not convinced which is why I think we deal him..
would getting a new head coach be a bad thing?
I’ll try to lighten the mood a little.
Goalie Clearly Living in Net: http://www.theonion.com/content/news/goalie_clearly_living_in_net
Gaborik’s future may also lie with DR’s. A new GM would most likely see something different with regard to him than DR sees. That said, that is true for all the FA’s. As said before, if DR’s going somewhere let’s hope he goes quick so that the new guy can start getting things straightened out the way he wants them as soon as possible. Worst case scenario would be for DR to stick around until the last minute and then have a new guy come in with his hands tied by what DR has or hasn’t done.
Got to chime in, again, on these constant Gaborik-for-Malkin talks…
Gaborik’s on the hook for over $7 mil next year? Malkin’s due a raise, sure, but would you rather pay 7 mil for Malkin or Gaborik? It’s no secret Pittsburgh will have cap issues, but not this summer. I can’t see any deal involving Malkin for Gaborik. Unless you give us Burns too. Though granted, I’m not a GM.
Hossa’s not too likely to re-sign here. I can’t fathom the idea of trading a top center, giving two scoring lines, for a winger and one scoring line.
I’ll admit, however… talk to me after the playoffs and other guys’ values are established. I still wouldn’t see it happen though.
Agree with you Woodcock on the Oilers.
I really do appreciate the division we are in. Good solid teams throughout right now and among the most passionate and knowledgeable fans you can have throughout.
Vancouver is the only team in the late time zone and that will only be six regular season games from now on.
Gabby + Burns Kevin?
Are you a grave robber for a living?
i’m not fully convinced either but I do believe #10 is closer to where we need want him to be now than he was at the beginning of the season.
I don’t think he will pout and demand a trade if BFF pav isn’t resigned, for example. where a couple of years ago, i do believe if pav wasn’t brought in, it would have been extremely difficult to resign him.
he has enjoyed his best season and much success when he played as JL wants him to play.
If JL and #10 hate each other, why didn’t JL throw him under the bus like everyone else did?
There is plenty of evidence to be cautious with #10 but I think is reason to belive that things are a little different with him now compared to beginning of season.
Although no one in the Predators organization has a definitive theory as to why Ellis moved into the team’s net, there has been growing speculation that when he joined the team he did not feel that he could find a comparable apartment in the greater Nashville area.
AIH, that is good stuff,what more, probably true!
Good riddance to Hill IMO. Go be a liability elsewhere.
Sad news for Radio. I really started to like him later in the season. He was fantastic on teh checking line. He would always find himself in the right place at the right time, but his downside was he couldn’t finish his chances. I would hope that he could come back to the Wild, but ACL is risky indeed.
Kevin, I told you, if you want me cheer for the Pens, you have to work with me on the gabby/malkin thing!
what happened to Chris Mason in Nashville?
I am actually a bit suprised to hear that Demo says he wants to stay in MN. I figured he would want to bolt out of here as quickly as possible.
phil: I too am on record as not wanting to put ANY player (including Gaby) in a position to have that much control over the team.
I just don’t necessarily think that’s going to be the case here.
If JL and #10 hate each other, why didn’t JL throw him under the bus like everyone else did?
Not following this G*, could you help me out there? Who threw Gabby under a “bus”? well besides me.
NINY, if gabby stays…I hope you are right.
I agree that it seems Gabby turned a corner of sorts this second half, and I was one who had had enough of him with his ASG comments. Still, though, this is the summer to re-sign or trade him, because I think it’s playing with lots of fire to have him play out next season on this contract.
JL made a comment the other day about how Gabby and Demo needed to play a little different in the SCP than the regular season - something to the effect that you can’t try for the pretty play all the time, which those guys are good at. Query whether Demo and Gabby together in the SCP is the reason Gabby was mostly quiet vs Anaheim and very quiet vs Avs (I say that at the risk of diminishing the jobs those teams did against him, too). It was 5 years ago, but I still think he has a playoff game in him from the ‘03 run.
Avs Troll - thanks for the comments. Feel free here anytime.
Gabby threw himself under the bus and so did the media and fans.
To me, Gabby was owning up to his failures in the playoffs.
Austin: here’s to hoping that lazy arse bolts!
Who threw Gabby under a “bus”? well besides me.
surely you can’t be serious
Glad to hear that Gabby has talk of extension this summer on his mind. Makes me feel like he wants to be here. I think Rolston would take a “fair” deal to stay here. Sounds like he enjoys playing in front of a packed “X” every night. Don’t think he is trying to break the bank after aq solid regular season and very, very good playoff series. Sux about Radio and it looks like he is done with the Wild. Would also like to see Demo get an extension and then be allowed to play his normal position (wing). A lot of folks have grumbled that he was awful this year, but playing out of position can do that to a player. Ask a third basemen if there is a difference in playing shortstop. Ask a defensive end if there is a difference in playing defensive tackle. One of the bafoons on 93-dork this morning stated that “It doesn’t matter where you play, hockey is hockey.” Maybe the dumbest thing I ever heard. Centers in JL’s system are third-man back and have to play high in the offensive zone. Demo is better when he is allowed to create off the wing and play down low. That isn’t going to happen playing center in JL’s system. I think Demo is professional enough that he shouldn’t expect much of a raise, if any, to stay here, but I do hope he gets the chance and plays the wing next year. Don’t expect Butch to get an extension this year. Foy, Radio, Simon, Voros, Hill, Carney, Nummi are gone.
Marian Gaborik did say an extension would be good this summer because a Marian Hossa-like distraction could ruin the team.
This is a giant step in the right direction!
I am actually a bit suprised to hear that Demo says he wants to stay in MN. I figured he would want to bolt out of here as quickly as possible.
My guess is that despite the average, at best, UFA market for forwards, Demo knows that the injuries (coupled with his age) are going to hurt him in the market. Plus, the Gabby extension factor and the prospects of playing for a less desirable team are also likely in play.
G*, Yes I can be, and don’t call me surely..it wasn’t Russo, souhan, reusse, his teammates, many people here that threw him under the bus as they are still his apologists now..so really, who?
Deep maybe you’re right, but Demo did himself no favors by his lazy play, particularly in the play-offs.
While I agree that Demo seemed to thrive more as a wing than as a center in JL’s system, I would like to point out that he had long stretches of ineffectiveness from the wing as well this season.
As a whole, I can’t imagine he’d say his season was a success - regardless of which position he played on a given shift.
The elephant in the room for next season is Mark Parrish.
Nobody has discussed him, but he is a BIG issue. This is a team that has cap issues, and he’s set to make almost $3 million per year the next few years.
That is a lot of money to spend on a guy manning the popcorn machine.
He’s clearly frustrated. The Wild are clearly frustrated. What would it take to move him?
Can’t believe the season is over all ready
I think Gabby really matured as a player this year, even though he didn’t score in the playoffs. I have no answers as to which of our own FA’s to re-sign, but Riseborough damn well better come up with more good centers. If Wes Walz could have played one more year at his previous level, I think the Wild would have beaten Colorado.
Also, tell me again why we let Brunette go? Now THERE’s a FA we should have re-signed.
IIRC, we may have a shot at righting the Brunette wrong this summer.
The way I understand it, Dave T, is that DR had to choose between Brunette and Alexander Daigle. He chose poorly.
nice IJATLC pull, Dave!
THANKS, NiNY! I’m amazed anyone caught it. It was pretty subtle.
Are you a grave robber for a living?
No more so than phil for suggesting gabby/demo for malkin and a draft pick. I’d say I’d throw in Orpik, but he’s a UFA and I want him back anyway. Maybe Whitney…I’d like to throw him under a bus (no, literally).
phil, I’d work with you on the trade except I want to keep Malkin around a little longer.
Dude, Dave, that’s one of my favorite lines from that movie.
I think the reason Brunette was not signed was that there was a judgment that in the new post-strike NHL, Brunette wouldn’t be fast enough (just as some of the old clutch and grab D wouldn’t be able to keep pace). I think everyone, including probably Wild management, would agree that that was a mistake.
Subtle maybe, but I agree with KiPA that it’s the best line in the whole movie.
IIRC, we may have a shot at righting the Brunette wrong this summer.
And he is so sorely missed here. A guy with great hands, who works very well around the net. He’s a guy who just has the knack. It’s the role that I thought Parrish would fill when he signed here.
We’ve discussed before, but DR has admitted he goofed on choosing not to re-sign him.
IJATLC = ?
Adam: you may be dating yourself by asking that.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
I didn’t mean that the line itself was subtle. I meant that my use of it was.
I’m with ya, Dave…
I have a profound lack of movie knowledge but I have seen every South Park and Simpsons episode and I had CI this year. For me, its a wash!
OK, I’ve been lurking so here’s my manifesto. (Don’t think there is much competition for better quotes from IJATLC)
Bummer for Radio. He was great for us down the stretch and one of our most consistent players. Wish him well, though I agree that his type of play is perhaps the easiest to replace, so we may not see him back.
Risebrough was phenomenal on this subject [getting them to play as a team], which you’ll see tonight and in tomorrow’s paper.
This is very intriguing to say the least.
I think Roli will be back for 4-4.5 for 3 years. His stock went way up and I get the feeling his family really likes it here too, so I think he settles for perhaps a bit less than he may get elsewhere. I don’t believe, as some have speculated, that he gets offers in the 6 mil range. In the salary cap age, he’s not worth that much.
Good for Gaborik to acknowledge the need to get a deal done this summer. Let’s hope it’s soon and for not much more than his current deal. Maybe take the C away for a while next year. Despite the goals and points, I just don’t see him as a real leader on this team yet. Ask me again in a year.
No one is talking about Burns, so I’ll throw out a teaser. He had a fantastic year and we all love the guy to death and thrilled that he’s signed an extension, but he seemed to fade in the SCP. I realize he was playing more minutes, but he said himself that at age 23 it didn’t phase him (could have been a bit of bravado). I’m still amazed every time I realize that he’s only 23. After a season of 43 points, he tallied 2 assists in the playoffs. Was he reined in because of the injuries and forced to be a bit more defensive than normal? I think he’s the kind of player that can be a difference maker in a series like this, but it wasn’t there. I’m NOT ripping Burns, just would have liked to see him have a better postseason after such a great regular season.
Burnsie will be great in the Worlds. They can set him loose!
good points re: burns, joey. I think he had a bigger task than he could handle - and that’s not to rip him OR JL.
I don’t think JL had another option BUT to play him like that, and of course Burns is going to say he can handle it.
I think this experience will only make him better, sooner.
Ok, I am a disappointed and was very frustrated that we lost out in the first round. But on the bright side, we did bring home the NW Division title this and made it into the playoffs for the second year in a row.
I would love to see us keep Fridge. That guy became one of my favorites on this team. He really played well for us.
I don’t have much more on thoughts right now. Sorry to hear about Radio’s torn ACL. That has got to be a bummer in more ways then one for him. That had to have taken a huge set of brass ones to play the rest of the game through. Nice to hear that so many guys want to play for us next year. Glad I don’t have to make the decision on who goes and who stays.
I will still check in during the off season off and on.
Thanks to all the regulars on this blog and to Russo for making it possible. I have learned alot more about hockey and it has been great bouncing ideas off each other, venting, and celebrating together. Hopefully we all meet back here again during the off season and next year. Keep up the good work Russo, it is greatly appreciated.
NW division title this year - sorry
kgopher: when’s the wedding, again?
On with Hartman, the Don said that DR gives himself a lot of blame for some of the dysfunction during the regular season because he had too many guys playing the last year of their deals. They think this is a large part of the reason JL had so hard a time getting the guys to play as a team - too many guys worried about their personal stats.
Hockeydad: thanks for keeping us posted…for some reason my radio won’t tune into KFAN here at work.
DR has since admitted he would not be so quick to let Brunette go.
Seems to me that by occupation Demitra was a center, but with JL needing more defense from the center position he was “converted” to wing.
So, it is not exactly that he is playing out of position only that he is more suited to wing.
When you throw in the curve that Walz lost his legs that is a very big hole to fill and it forced Demitra to play center.
Every successful team has adversity and needs to play through it, but I think the Wild had more than most.
And, I do think the team did damn well in playing through it all. So I think the fans ought to be pleased with the season except for the fact they are done.
But just think, in the end a blocked shot, a tight check, a save here or there, or a goal at the right time … and we would still be playing or we may have wrapped up the series.
I am not sure how the Wild stack up against other teams in covering our player injuries? We did have our share of them too both during the season and in the playoffs.
I have seen IJATLC but was not getting the movie title from the that either. My mom is a big Indiana Jones fan so I have seen all of them so far. Don’t remember much about any of them though since it has been several years since I last watch them.
NiNY-September 13th. Thanks for asking.
kgopher: nice…I assume kj’s band is set to go? Learned your first dance song and all that?
joeythelemur, I think there is a difference between being tired and fatigue.
Fatigue is a culmination of more than your body can recover from over an extended period. It is not all that easy to recover from without a few days of rest.
Mayabe, extreme fatigue cannot be overcome by adrenaline either.
My earlier comment about Koivu’s much poorer faceoff wins in the last game suggests fatigue to me.
I think it was a factor Saturday night. Still they were not far off a win and with a bounce or break we might have been in for a dandy spring.
Anyone got any numbers on how many of Gaborik’s points did Demitra also get a point on the play?
Why Burns didn’t show up on the scoresheet in the playoffs. That isn’t his main job. He had some beautiful chances but when you’re playing more minutes than you’ve ever played and the puck goes up ice you think ‘change for fresh legs’ rather than ‘join the play’.
One other note from the KFAN appearance, Russo mentioned guys like Langkow, Bruno as the class of UFAs that DR might target, and that they wouldn’t be likely to afford the top tier guys (he mentioned Hossa and Campbell) long-term.
I would throw the Avs Kurt Sauer in as the type of d-man that would fit here (and that has nothing to do with his MN roots)
NINY, I got the chose poorly thing, it actually took me a second to get your IJATLC thing, I scrolled up a little to see if it was a poster and then I realized what it was! That scene creeped me out there, same as when those dudes melted in the 1st one ROTLA.
Malkin/Gabby isn’t a bad trade Kevin, I really think gabby would shine in the east, I’ll drop the draft pick thing..how’s that?
By all means bring Burnette back! …Alexander who?
We have a DJ lined up. He is the husband to one of the groom’s coworkers. Don’t know if I have heard kj mentioned his band does Bob Dylan.
I would really, really like to see Langkow in iron range red.
I’ve seen the 10 million/year number for Gabby thrown out by a lot of (mostly dumb) journalists, but I don’t see where they are getting that.
According to nhlnumbers.com, only 3 guys got that this year (Briere, Gomez, Vanek!) and only one guy (Heatley) is on tap for that next year (so far). Ovie and Crosby are right there, but Gabby is not in their league. I know these guys expect raises from every deal until they’re too old, but I’m just not sure that MG yet deserves much more than he gets now. $7.5 mil/year seems about right for Gabby.
Agreed Hockeydad. Sauer did a good job (along with Foote) on Gabby.
So if Gaby gets about a 10% raise that would put him at $8.25 mil/year going off of joey’s 7.5 mil/year that he gets now. Is he worth that? I don’t know, sometimes, sometimes not.
phil, from a Minnesota standpoint, absolutely it’s a great trade. Malkin’s younger, I think a little bigger, and he’s already thriving in the East. I’m not saying Gaborik would do badly in the east, but why would we get rid of Malkin?
Iceman, I think you hit it on the head. It’s fine that no one’s really talking about Burns, but beyond the obvious injury effects, this is one way that those injuries seeped into the rest of the team. Guys like Burns and Johnsson had to not only play more, but their focus was probably subtly different than it had been all year and I think it made a difference.
Plus I agree that it isn’t his main job, Goody. I’m sure not faulting him for the lack of scoring, but he just seemed to come up with some really timely offensive contributions during the regular season.
I probably don’t say this enough, but….I really don’t envy DR!
Kevin, because gabby’s faster and could complement Sid the Kid better and I think Malkin will get too expensive for the Pens, and Gabby,until he proves himself there, won’t be.
I sort of feel like Gaby’s the most dangerous coming out of the corner, or on a cycle.
I know that takes his speed out of the equation, so maybe it’s when he uses the speed to get the defense back on their heels and let his (slower, bigger - ie more suited to the cycle) linemates catch up and set up in the O-zone.
But he’s so bad at finishing off the rush, and I have this recollection of so many of his goals when he comes out of the corner/off the wall and gets that little wrist/snapper off through traffic.
If there’s anything to that, then what he needs is Jumbo Joe at pivot and Fridge on the far wing bouncing defenders into the end boards and setting him up from down low.
Knowing the Wild’s luck, they would bring back Bruno and he would flop hard.
I would really, really like to see Langkow in iron range red.
+1 - there were rumors the Flames got close to an extension with him so I am still keeping my fingers crossed he makes it to July 1 (?).
Malkin doesn’t play alongside Sid anymore, at least not right now. I’ve said this before, but I think the Pens are better suited to have Sid + whomever and Malkin + Sykora on two different lines instead of Sid + Gaborik on one line. Gaborik may be faster than Malkin, but Geno’s no slouch either. Malkin doesn’t have the lingering groin concerns either.
Contract-wise, I think you’re assuming (perhaps rightfully so) that Malkin will command $9-10 million. For arguments sake, let’s say he gets 7.5-8.5. We’ll go 8 to make it easier. Let’s assume the 700k difference between Gabby and Geno is not significant enough to merit a salary dump. In that scenario, I see no reason to trade Malkin for Gabby. Sure, Sid needs a winger (Hossa won’t be back), but there are cheaper alternatives than giving up the league’s second-leading scorer.
One day, and this has been almost widely agreed upon by Pens fans, is that yes, Malkin will become too expensive and is the most likely of the big three (Sid, Geno and Staal) to leave. He’s still under contract for next season and is a RFA after that, buying a little time for negotiations for him and others, like Gabby, so there’s no rush to trade him this summer.
The Penguins will have some tough decisions to make and a lot of it will be dictated by what happens in the rest of the playoffs. All bets are off until their season ends. But if Gabby’s and Geno’s contracts are similar enough, I think it’d be silly to trade Geno.
Honestly, if you’re the Penguins, do you make that trade and put all your eggs in one basket (all scoring on one line)?
I have a feeling that a lot of things are going to pi- er, make me angry this offseason. and sad.
but I can tell you that one thing that would make me neither angry nor sad is if DR and JL go away. I won’t rant about it, and I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. but I would not be sorry to see them go.
Ok kevin, your reasoning and logic is really startin’ to pi$$ me off…gonna have to pull out the big guns: Force persuade, “You will trade us Malkin for gabby, you WILL trade Malkin for gabby..now go about your business and tell your GM it’s a good deal.”
NO SOUP FOR YOU!
If I throw in Whitney and you throw in Burns, then I’ll actually start to consider it.
Kevin, you must have been dynamite trading baseball cards with the kids on your block.
Besides, if you’re dumping salary, you might not want to take on a guy who’s making $7+ mil.
Lol Iceman.. if there were any other kids on my “block” (I use quotes because it’s not quite a block) then maybe.
But there weren’t any. 
Sorry Kevin, Burns is not for sale, no way, no how. Untouchable right now, especially for the reasonable deal he just signed.
And based on the Wild’s experience, you’d be crazy to put all your scoring on one line. Sid has definitely benefited from having Malkin skating on another line.
Kevin-You can’t have Burns. phil is not allowed to give him to you no matter how bad he wants Malkin. And if you want to throw Whitney under a bus (I think he is the one), then we really don’t want him. So if that is what it is going to take, phil, please give up I can see Kevin’s point quite nicely. If we are really on the dream boat here, can I have Ovechkin please? I just like his love of the game and that he has fun playing whether he scores or someone else scores. I think he could just come here, no trade, no nothing, just decide to come play here for cheaper then what he is making in Washington
Must be a sale on smiley faces in the 3:00 hour.
Cheap smileys in housewares at S-Mart
kevin: I didn’t realize they had solitary in juvey.
Damnit joey, you’re ruining my mojo with Malkin…no worries kgopher, burnsie doesn’t live too far from me, wanna keep him close..he’s a good neighbor, particularly with the zoo he keeps at his house. And besides (infinitely more important too) he’s gonna be our cornerstone “D” man!
Well if I stop mentioning it, can I still wish for it or something?
lol joey..shop smart, shop S-Mart!
Wish all you want you phil, just don’t let Kevin have Burns (he can have his snakes though, I don’t like those creatures, they are creepy). I would love to see the puppies at the Burns house though. I am sure they are adorable. I keep wishing for Ovechkin despite it never going to happen so you can wish Malkin.
Trade prediction: Gaborik for Marc Staal & Sean Avery (or NY 1st rounder). We need another solid young D and they are raving about his future in NY, plus it gives Gabby the big stage he craves.
Wooden: with all due respect, does Gaby really crave a big stage? I didn’t have the impression that he does.
NINY, you said “wood”en, that was cool
He may not say it out loud but the rumors and his demeanor show it. We’ve all heard the comments about “playing in the east” with it’s wide open style and how it would fit Gabby, he’s even confirmed it himself. If you’re in NY you know that if his name comes up in trade talk NY will be first on the list. Any big name player and NY always comes up. If he goes to the east it will be to a big market team…he aint’ going to Tampa or Carolina.
huh…well I wonder if the Rags’ defense-oriented play under Renney would put a damper on that for Gaby? I can’t imagine him wanting to move to Lawn Guyland (no offense Russo) right now, and the Devils are more defensive than the Wild.
Either way, if you think DR’s going to let 42 goals leave for Sean Avery, you’re out of your gourd.
Sorry phil, don’t mean to be a downer, I’m a realist. Would take Malkin for Gabby without too much hesitation, but just don’t see it as something the Pens would go for. But dream on brother!
I think a good off-season fund raiser for some Wild charity would be an open house at Burnsies. A petting zoo of sorts with the wild toothless one as the midway busker. I’d pay to see that, though Burnsie may not want so many people to know just where his menagerie is located.
Maybe he could make school visits as the ‘Toothless Wild Reptile Dude’?
Ha, kgopher, Whitney’s good, he really is! Just… not in these playoffs… and there was the whole regression thing this season, not much but some… his contract isn’t a LOT more expensive than Burns’… he’s 6-4 and 219 pounds but doesn’t hit anyone… and he’s a left-handed shot, and those are a dime a dozen, and Burns is that rare right-handed shot I’ve been craving for for a decade…
Whitney’s lone supporter in Pittsburgh says he’s a +5 in the playoffs, which I think is evidence of massive statistical errors.
He’s loaded with potential though!
And Nick: ouch.
Brent’s Cabinet of Curiosities does have a nice ring to it, eh?
KiPA: I was only kidding…you put “block” in quotes and said there weren’t any other kids…I put ‘em together and came out with juvey and solitary…my sense of humor is a little weird.
Man, I’m liking this idea, and I really like the “Cabinet of Curiosities” tag. Russo, send this up the chain and see if we can get some traction! They could put some serious ching in the 10,000 rinks foundation for something like this.
At the Minnesota State Fair they have a reptile exhibit every year. Why not combine that (Burns’ reptiles) and the Wild’s own location in the Grandstand? That might staisfy everyone’s curiosity and help the normally less-than-thriling Wild display of stuff…
But if they do that, make damn sure them things are FED before hauling them to Falcon Heights!
Traditionally a Cabinet of Curiosities is a display of dead, stuffed, deformed, odd, freakish things. Very popular during Elizabeth I’s reign in England and again during the Victorian period. Also often included religious artifacts and relics. I think Burnsie’s more into the live version of things. …. Ok, off my history high horse…. So, I’m thinking all are speculating will be for not if DR gets offered a lot of money to go to the Leafs, because with him gone it’s a whole different kettle of fish.
WRT, could you imagine of one of Burnsie’s python happened to make it’s way over to the Farm Baby Animals exhibit?
KiPA,
What’s the word locally on Malone? How much $$$ do you think it will take to sign him, either in PIT or elsewhere (MN!!!)
Thanks.
Why all this hate for Whitney, he was the Norris winner on my NHL ‘08 Team!
(P.S Rolston, Johnnson, and a first rounder for Ollie and Boumeester was a good deal for Florida)
No worries nick. I knew you were joking. No harm done.
…Jerk.
On SI they cite a Pittsburgh source for saying that it is likely they will sign Malone but not be able to afford Hossa.
We do NOT cover Dylan. Ever.
Malkin/Orpik for Gaborik/Skoula was what I offered up in November. I can honestly see why the Pens never jumped on that deal… 
I have no idea where this offseason is headed - except for not having a big deal take place. Unless of course DR goes to Toronto. Then all bets are off.
I also forgot. How. To. Use. HTML.
I wouldn’t mind seeing Hossa in I.R.R. Of course there are a lot of guys I would like to see here if Cap space wasn’t an issue.
elGato: Ooooh, are you cruel!
kj: YOU forgot how to use HTML? Geez, if you forgot, we are all in trouble…
Thanks, Wood.
Did SI mention for how much? This is definitely a guy you want to make a run at (Talkin’ to you, CL):
$1.45M/yr, 6/4″ 224, breakout year, ‘03 YoungStar, sniper (SH%17), +50pts/+100 PIMS, 27 goals in 77 gms.
Estimates on Malone I’ve heard are 4-5 mil and rising with a strong regular and postseason.
Whitney’s cons include being a poor puckhandler for an offensive D, no physicality despite a large frame, too many stupid giveaways, and this year wasn’t the offensive presence he was last year.
No, no speculation on size of Malone offer–just that they will and should sign him and won’t sign Hossa. But that is just specualtion at this point.
We’re really hoping for a hometown discount from Malone
Or perhaps speculation not specualtion.
We’re really hoping for a hometown discount from Malone
With all due respect, I’m hopin’ CL gets the checkbook out and signs this guy at FMV. Besides, lookin’ at all your firepower, that’s almost unfair! LOL.
Well, bfw, assuming Hossa doesn’t re-sign, losing Malone takes away our firepower somewhat.
Another thing management is really hoping for is the idea of playing with Sid and Geno and competing for Cups for a few years will lower prices from UFAs and FAs a little.
Whitney kinda sounds like Foster.
As for the Wild this summer in the FA market, I think they absolutely need to pick up a top 4 defenseman. In no particular order: Salvador, Malik, Hejda, Sauer–maybe a few others I’d throw in there–that would upgrade the blue line and not cost too much.
I think they also need to add a C, but there’s really pretty slim pickins there. Langkow, Conroy and Josef Vasicek would all be nice. Oh, sure, so would Mats Sundin, but I don’t think that’s happening.
There are a lot of Penguins players that will be overpaid because they play with Malkin and Crosby - I’m looking at you Dupuis and Malone.
AiH: can’t speak for Dupuis, who’s been here two months, but Malone certainly had a breakout season when he needed it most (read: in a contract year) and playing with Malkin and Sykora was a large part of that. While he’s been a 20-goal scorer three of his four years in the league, he was showing signs of regression and spent time in Therrien’s doghouse last year. This season was by far his best. Will he be overpaid? Eh, maybe. He’s been great all season though.
So I was catching up on the papers on my kitchen table, and one of the letters to the editor caught my eye in todays PP. The title is “Too much whining and disrespect” and the text is as follows…
I have been a Minnesota sports fan for close to 30 years, hockey being my favorite sport. growing up watching the North Stars and now the Wild has always been an addiction, especially at playoff time.
Never in my life have I heard such biased and unprofessional coverage of a sporting event by television personalities. Mike Greenlay and Dan Terhaar have made me sick to my stomach while watching the games.
Their constant whining and disrespect for the officials and opponents is something they should be ashamed of. What happened to TV commentators who try to portray an unbiased and accurate account of the event and even include some semblance of sportsmanship? Young hockey players throughout the great state of Minnesota are watching this, and it’s unfortunate that they are being taught this ugly side of athletics and sportsmanship from these two crybabies.
S.J. Hall, White Bear Lake
I don’t know who SJ HAll is, but right on brother!!! (or sister)
It really would be nice to spend a little money and bring in a really good PBP announcer for TV. No offense to Terhar, but wasn’t he really just kind of a local guy who happened to be around when a change was made? I know he had done radio (he was one of the “Boys” from AM1500 “Babs and the Boys” pre-9/11) and did SCSU games, but this is a lot of job for someone with his experience.
And Greenlay - really? Wonder how good someone like Bomber would be doing as an analyst? Or another former NHLer who makes their home in the Twin Cities? Greenlay can’t be the best there is around here, can he?
Thanks for that Bandgeek. Hopefully that will open someones eyes to the absurdity that is D&D.
I don’t mind when D&D get on the refs, but their P by P is not so good..and their whole desperate team rant during the Oil game was so annoying I wanted to b-slap ‘em both.
It’s not just one part of D&D’s game, it’s everything! When you get Center Ice and can hear people like Kevin Quinn, or Doc Emrick or Jim Hughson or Sam Rosen, or any of the other really high-quality broadcast teams out there, it really drives home what bumbling fools these two are. Really, new ownership, it’s a change you HAVE to make.
There are any number of quality announcers who would LOVE to come work in this market, with its passionate fans, media exposure, etc. And even the best would only cost peanuts compared to a player salary.
I have to believe we could get Gary Thorne and Darrin Pang here in a heartbeat. Just give me the go-ahead, Wild, and I’ll even broker the deal!
Good Old Wally was wrong and he admits it. I thought about not showing my face again but I did
The Wild surprised Good Old Wally this year. I predicted that they would win it this year or next at teh beginning of the year . It will have to be next year. As long as the trio of Lemaire and Riseburough were together, I dont think its possible for the cup not to be here in a reasonable timeframe
Good Old Wally you are stupid !
I would love Thorne and Panger.
Pouliot and Reitz sent to Houston for playoffs.
I am sorry that you feel that way Beav ! I never asked for you to worship me in the first place.
Good Old Wally thinks that Gabby is a tough one to figure out. You cant pay him too much money as he is not a leadership type player. Gaborick is great to have on the team, but he is not going to be the future captain. I hope they can find a way to sign him, but they just cant pay too much
Good Old Wally…it takes a lot of guts to show your face around here.
Ever since your post about ‘winning game 6 and 7′ I’ve been waiting to tell you I mortgaged the house and lost.
In mythical dollars of course…
We’ll miss you and the Beaver this summer. Try to keep us updated with your plans.
As long as the trio of Lemaire and Riseburough were together
Yeah, pretty much sums it up, doesn’t it Beaver???
Yeah, pretty much sums it up, doesn’t it Beaver???
oh my lord (best Lemaire voice)…dat was funny!!
Tom Chorske is available as an analyst and was quite good at it with the Devils. Another thought would be Brian Lawton, though he may have his sights set on Risebrough’s job instead. I wouldn’t count on a major name wanting the PBP job here but someone like Clay Matvick could be had, and he would certainly be a step up from Terhaar, at least he does his homework and doesn’t sound like he’s going through puberty all the time. Only reason Terhaar got the job is because he worked for CCO radio and the Wild thought they would get more exposure on air with that connection.
Jason Shaver is learning the ropes down in Houston. How long till we ‘call him up’ and ensconce him in the press box named for his Granddad?
Woooo Habs up 2-0. Go Habs Go!!
Flyers also up 2-0. Don’t like them.
Nope Flyers not good. The Mr has an unacknowledged man crush on Ovie-won. So he wants the Caps to win.
Yippie!!! Habs 3-0!!!
Viva la Montreal!!
How’s it going tonight Russoville? I wish I could have participated today. Work was brutal. Looks like there was some lively discussion. It’s gonna be one crazy summer for our favorite team ‘eh?
Tom Chorske - not a bad call, Claire. I happen to know from someone who used to work with him at Merril (the financial printer) that he’s still trying to find his post-hockey gig.
Simulcast. Simulcast. Take the D&D savings and put it into scouting. Uncover a gem. Pretend we’re the Wings or the Avs and show something for the later rounds of the draft.
About Gaborik in the playoffs…
He’s a great player, no doubt about that, but the problem here is that a team can decide they’re going to take one player out of the game. They threw Adam Foote over the boards every time Gabby went out with the orders of not letting him out of his sight. Foote is a good enough defender to handle that assignment. The problem comes in where the Wild don’t have enough secondary scoring. Rolston and Koivu are good players and they were able to score with so much focus on Gaborik, but then who else? Demo and PMB were OK, and Fridge contributed. Voros got a goal. But then there’s a long list of players with goose eggs in the series. Sheppard, Boogaard, Veillieux, Branko, Parrish, Pouliot, Simon, Belanger, Foy… all zeros in the goal department. Sure, some only played a game or two, but the point is that the Wild have maybe 5 guys on the team who are a real threat to put the puck in the net in the playoffs. That’s just not going to cut it. Take away Gabby, and it becomes very tough sledding for this team. The Av were rolling four lines, had 5 players with multiple goals and 11 goal scorers total, compared to the Wild’s 3 muliple goal scorers and 7 total scorers. The Wild did a pretty good job on Forsberg, but not so much on Sakic, Brunette, Wolski and Smyth.
I guess what I’m saying is the Wild need more weapons.
Frank Buetel
Joe Boyle
Anyone catch Lou Nanne on Barreiro today? He mentioned several scouts have spoken to him in the press box about pursuing Rolston. Also, he believes Butch may command big money, and the Wild would take the draft picks over matching an offer sheet.
It’s a good thing we have The Don to decipher all the rumors. It’s maddening trying to predict who may come here this summer.
Caps have tied it at 2, btw.
Pop quiz, and no cheating: what does the H stand for in the Canadiens logo?
I assume Les Habitants.
KW, interesting info. Not sure what’s going to happen this summer, but as I said in my last post, the Wild need more weapons. If PMB gets a big offer sheet, I’m not sure how I feel about that in terms of what the Wild should do. You don’t easily replace a guy like that, but at the same time the Wild can’t throw as much money as they want at the guy either (and of course the higher the offer, the better return in draft picks the get, which might not be so bad). I’d put the threshold for matching probabably somewhere around a $3.5 cap hit. If someone wants to offer him more, then take the draft picks and use the money to find another UFA wing to take his place.
I would hate to see Butch go. He is very creative. Draft picks don’t do much for next year.
Come on, Kevin, that was too easy.
Hockey
That would be my guess as well. Les Habitants. Not a guess really. That’s what I’ve always thought it was.
I’m bored…. is it pre-season yet? No! Damn it’s gonna be a long summer.
Les habitantes is not the answer.
Hockey. That’s awesome. LMAO.
Hal (my brother is Dan and he stole my St Louis gig) Kelly, Roger Buxton, Frank (every shot that hit the side of the net, hit the post) Mazocco, Doug (and the puck drizzles in) MacLeod.
Yes we have a rich tradition of bad NHL TV announcers. D&D say “bring em on, bring em all on.”
Oh, and Shaver needs little more time before you call him up. I’m enjoying him too much to give him up.
Yeah Le Club de Hockey Canadiens. Or some such thing. At least I didn’t cheat.
club de hockey
that is what the C and the H stand for on the sweater
Ms. Conduct is correct.
The logo actually has two C’s, and the full meaning is Le Club de Hockey Canadien.
Shaver! Shaver! Shaver!
Shaver on PBP and Bomber doing color!!!
Still the best logo in hockey.
I agree woodcock, but like I said, the Wild can’t throw as much money as they want to at him, and if someone wants to give him $4MM per season… I’d have to think long and hard on that one. He’s a tough player to project for me. On one hand he’s still young and likely has some upside, and while the picks wouldn’t help NEXT season, the money not spent could if they use it to sign another player to replace him. Maybe that player isn’t Butch, but I think you can find a decent UFA talent for $3MM or so per if you are a savvy shopper.
And Kirk laughed! Texas girl knows her hockey, eh…
No Bandgeek. No Shaver. NO!
Louy said Lucia should hire Bomber to replace Guentzel.
Ovie-wan scores in the 3rd for a 3-2 Caps lead.
Not doubting your great hockey mind Ms.C. That just really struck me as funny.
Yes to Shaver. No to Bomber. Fire Risebrough.
Imagine a really good Veruca Salt (the rich chick in Willy Wonka) voice….
“But I want Jason Shaver. Get me Jason Shaver now.”
Best line in the newer version of Willy Wonka…
“I’m Veruca Salt.”
“Really, I always thought a veruca was a kind of wart you get on your foot?’
I should say I thought you meant that to be a joke Ms.C.
“I want it noooooowww!!”
Ya, Jaromir, you hit at least one worse than our current broadcasters.
There’s only one C for Club. It used to be C with an A inside for Club Athletique or something.
I assumed so. Just hassling you, K.
Gonna turn you into a blueberry, Bandgeek.
Toivu, that is right. They could cover Gabby like a rug if no one else was scoring. If a different guy started to score Colorado would not have had the luxury of making Gabby go away.
But, in spite of that, it is still only three one goal games that a different bounce would have a different result.
I don’t want to be juiced!!!! fine keep Shaver, for now.
Apparently some guy on CNN thought Hillary should get Sid the Kid to endorse her campaign. Blitzer had to ask who Sidney Crosby was. Sad sack. Also he’s Canadian so why would he meddle in American politics. Man political analysts are dumb.
My kids go on a kick where they only want to watch both the original, and new Willy Wonka’s.
“Don’t touch that squirrels nuts!!”
My biggest question with PMB is this: how can you tell him that in order to get the long term contract he wants he has to show he’s willing to step out of his comfort zone during the playoffs and then, when he does, not give him the contract?
At least give a shot at giving him an extension at a reasonable price tag. There’s a chance he’d accept less than market to stay (ala Shultz).
4-0 Habs!!!!
Caps announcer when taling about an AO fight in a previous game:
“That was his first NHL fight as an NHL player.” Hmmm.
Go Habs, go Caps.
MUMBLER!
Let’s hire Wolf Blitzer as third man in the booth with D&D.
Not really toivo. There’s two C’s: the white outline and the block red one.
WC, I did a double take at that comment, too. He must have come from the Department of Redundancy Department.
Did anyone else see the group of rowdy old ladies they just panned past in the Habs crowd? All had on jersey’s, all looked like they’d been having a really good time. That will be me someday, old, wrinkled, and watching hockey. WOOOOOoooo!!!! 5-0, Habs move on.
So you’re saying they’re stacking their C’s? I think there’s some controversy there.
It’s Montreal, they figure they can get away with it.
Yeah, I mean who is gonna question Montreal Hockey???
Go Habs!!!
I have dishes and laundry to do. Later all.
“Chewing gum is really gross,
Chewing gum I hate the most.”
bring back Frank Mazzaco?He did a good job calling the North Stars games.
How in the hell is Bomber, a freaking UND SIOUX, going to coach the Gophers with no coaching experience?? Has someone been swapping out Louie’s little blue pills with dope??? Chorske actually did some work with Shaver for a bit I believe doing some Iowa Stars work. PBP is always the toughest to find the right guy. Wild have missed that mark since the beginning on the TV side. Of course its hard to match the success on the radio side with the PBP.
Sheesh, I wish they’d just shut up during the tv broadcasts. I remember a game a while back where the broadcaster portion of the audio crapped out and all you heard was arena/ice noise (I think it’s HDNet that even does this on purpose during games they show)…. oh man, it was heavenly! Like being at the game, but in a much more comfortable chair.
(I think it’s HDNet that even does this on purpose during games they show)….
Yeah the HD feeds do that from time to time. i love that as well. It’s fantastic. It makes it feel more like you are at the game. Especially in HD.
Whooooo. Nice Job Wild. Could not have happened to a nicer bunch of morons.
WildRgay, you are so insightful! No one has said anything like that before. You are truly a great hockey mind. You should take D&D’s place for sure. Pure genius.
Sign PMB. Please. Wild front office… just do it.
huge smorgasbord for the late night snackers.
Did anyone listen to Russo on wcco radio?
Russo was on the radio with Dark Star last night. 15 minutes of hockey talk- what a great way to wrap up a day.
Russo is brilliant- even more fun live than the blog, which is unbelievable.
Russo- would you be willing include a recap in your next posting?
HUGE disappointing end to the season. But not unexpected as far as I’m concerned. I knew the inconsistency would catch up with us at some point. I still think this is a better team than the Avs. Maybe the outcome would have been different had the members on this team thought they were better too. But its over. And I do plan to watcht he playoffs. I was happy to see the Ducks out. Also, New Jersey is out. This provides an opportunity to watch some of these young guys make a run for the cup. I’d like to see the Kid make it very much. The only Wild players I want to see return is Mik, PMB, Rolston, Burns, Schultz, Gabby and Fedoruk. Good bye Yawnson, Skouba, Simon, Carney, Voros and Pavol for sure!
