Day One wrap-up
Posted on July 1st, 2008 – 8:25 PMBy Michael Russo
Tuesday night update: It has been confirmed to me by Kristian Huselius’ agent, Don Meehan, that the Wild is pursuing the free-agent left wing and the two sides will speak again Wednesday. Huselius has got a ton of skill and was nearly traded to Minnesota in 2005-06.As you know by now, the Wild sent Ryan Jones and a second-round pick to Nashville for defenseman Marek Zidlicky, signed Andrew Brunette to a three-year, $7 million deal and signed Craig Weller to a two-year, $1.2 million contract.
Weller, a 6-foot-4 right wing, is bigtime overshadowed in my article tomorrow. I’m told he’s young, hungry and tough and is on a one-way contract, meaning he’s got a great chance to be up here and Cal Clutterbuck might have his work cut out for him now in camp. Weller’s essentially replacing Aaron Voros.
– I’ve been meaning to say this for a few days now because I know many fans grew an affection for Todd Fedoruk and Voros. Both were quality players here, and trust me, I’ll miss the quality quotes from a selfish standpoint.
But in this new cap world, fans need to get used to the fact that every year every team is going to have to let role players like Fedoruk and Voros walk away when they get too expensive.
It’s going to be one big recycling machine. Fedoruk got a three-year deal worth $3.1 million from Phoenix. Fedoruk is a good guy, did a solid job with Minnesota. Voros wanted a one-way at over a $1 million. Trying to track down what he got from the Rangers. Also a good guy, good player.
But it’s a lot of money for replaceable players. In this new cap world, teams are constantly going to be letting go their role players when they get too expensive and replace them with $557,000 Clutterbuck’s and $600,000 Weller’s. You will see every team do this. Unfortunately, you’ll have to get used to it.
Take care of the top guys, recycle the replaceable ones. That’s the new trend everywhere. I recently was talking to Detroit Red Wings assistant GM Jim Nill about this exact subject, and yes, even the mighty Red Wings do it.
– The Wild is definitely still up to something. I don’t see it happening tonight — if it happens, I should say — because a very spent front office was heading home just now.
But I was told there are things “pending,” and as you see above, I think it’s Huselius.
Michael Ryder signed with Boston. I left a message for Huselius tonight (3 a.m. there now, so I won’t hear back), but I haven’t heard back.
I still see big needs. Depending on the market, I see the Wild signing one more winger and one more center unless Benoit Pouliot simply is being given a job. Centers so far unsigned as of 8:30 p.m. include Jason Williams, Sean Avery, Josef Vasicek and Brendan Morrison. There are others. And it just dawned on me, considering the controversy Avery’s created everywhere talking about French Canadians, he’s out, I would imagine.
I also think they need a high-scoring winger, and that would be Huselius. Others include Huselius, Brendan Shanahan, Markus Naslund, etc.
– Marian Gaborik: Risebrough talked to Gaborik before he left for Slovakia as you can read in tomorrow’s paper and told him they’ll soon talk regarding an extension.
Risebrough nearly combusted on the conference call when asked about whether Gaborik’s going get the 20 percent max, which is incomprehensible. I don’t know where this comes from. It’s a perception out there that have boggled the Wild’s mind for awhile.
That’s $11.34 million per season. I mean, Vincent Lecavalier is reportedly about to sign a nine-year, $77 million deal ($8.55 million a year). Ovechkin makes $9.5 mill, Crosby $8.7, Malkin about to be $8.7, Lidstrom $7.45, Thornton, $7.2, Iginla $7.
Marian Hossa’s got a pretty impressive pedigree, eh? I see him getting 9, so where does this come from that Gaborik’s going to get the max.
“I’d say anybody that’s talking about the full 20 percent doesn’t know the business,” Risebrough said. “First of all, that 20 percent probably represents more money than anybody else in the league is making. Who makes 11 million in a year? Nobody. So somebody that’s saying that guy (Gaborik) should make 20 percent is saying he’s got to be obviously considerably the best player in the league and I wouldn’t want anybody to make that statement.”
– Wild obviously gave up a big price for Zidlicky in Jones and a second. Wild doesn’t have a lot of prospects and they keep trading draft picks — although they picked up a fourth for Rolston’s rights. But I indicated the other day this was the direction they were heading. They’d rather pay a proven guy with two years left on his contract than signing a Jeff Finger! for $3.5 a year. I mean, what’s Toronto doing? When you look at the prices of defensemen today, it was clearly a volatile market. Guys were getting ridiculous money. Still a steep price.
Risebrough said, “Not very often in my business do you get a chance to correct your mistakes, so I did,” when referring to Brunette. He said “two mistakes became a big mistake” after the lockout — 1) bringing back Daigle over Brunette; 2) not communicating well enough with Brunette.
Wild is all full at D now: Burns, Johnsson, Schultz, Zidlicky, Bergeron, Skoula, Reitz. Risebrough stressed over and over again that he doesn’t want to put any pressure on Kurtis Foster to feel he needs to rush back from his broken leg. Foster’s aiming for Nov. 1 as a best case scenario.
– Rolston certainly got his big payday, four years, $20 mill. from New Jersey. Wild made an effort, but you can see why it didn’t get him. He’ll miss Minnesota, he said, but this was too good of an opportunity to pass up. Rolston said 12 teams offered him contracts.
It’ll be hard to get used to the locker room without him. Just a good dude.
I’m sure I’ll be adding more throughout the night. Otherwise, that’s it for now. I’m spent too.
And by the way, that jab about not wishing me luck with my surgery, I meant that in jest. But I do appreciate all the emails today. Merci very much.
316 Responses to "Day One wrap-up"
Thanks Russo! Have a good night sleep!
outstanding work today, Russo. Really, really, appreciated.
Weller’s essentially replacing Aaron Voros.
He’s the new punching bag?
Well, at least the cap dollars aren’t ’spent’… 
Oops. Forgot to turn off italics.
Good work today Don Russo, this is cementing why you are the BEST beat writer in the National Hockey League. Eat, Sleep, and Breathe it baby!!!!
Hopefully nobody way overpays for Hossa (okay, probably not a chance of that) so we can keep the Gabby market realistic. Think he would accept less than Hossa playing on the same team?
Voros wanted over $1 million? LOL.
Well, since DR went home, and Russo’s done, I think I better go too.
7:15 am appt to sign my ultimate free agent. C-section for my first baby girl.
Night all. Yeah… like I can sleep…
Thanks for the hard work today Russo. You the man.
Nice Buddha!!!
Now THAT is what’s really important!
Good luck to all…
finally! A vasicek mention. 
Did anyone see ryan jones play last season. He was dominant against BC in the tournament and I thought he was the best player in college hockey. A steep price to pay.
Buddha: good luck man. daughters are awesome (I have two). Our best to your better half!
Russo do you have blisters on your fingertips from working the phone and laptop?
Well, I didn’t expect much today. That’s what the Dumpper delivered: not much.
and fresh thread too– win win!
sign hossa,shanny,avery and russo
Thanks for your hard work Russo, its much appreciated. I’m still curious to know what this “big” thing in the works is…… does it involve a trade with #10?
Good luck,Buddha!
I can see it now….
Riiiiiing.
Riiiiiing.
Riiiiiing.
Riiiiiing.
Click
“Hello…you have reached the cell phone of Doug Risbrough, General Manager of the MN Wild NHL Hockey club. I am away from my phone right now signing Craig Weller to a 1-way contract. But…your call is important to me Marian. Please leave a message and I will return your call promptly.”
Hossa: “Looks like Riser is away from the phone Pav. How much was Gillis offering us again???”
Click
finally! A vasicek mention.
toivo…step…away…from…the…keyboard!
That’s about the size of it kj.
Did anybody get a hold of Zedlicky?
I can’t wait to find out who the “player” is that we’ve offered a contract to. Tomorrow should be exciting.
Best blog on the web, thank you for the constant updates! I will be checking back in the morning.
Pioneer Press is reporting that Anaheim has signed Gophers’ Stu Bickel to a FA contract and that he’s leaving the Gophers after ONE YEAR. Damnit. I really liked watching him play.
I might be in the minority here, but i am quite happy with what the Wild have done today, I still believe we need a centre, I would like to see Vasicek and for the scoring winger Russo says we need i would take a punt on Ryder. Otherwise for a first day very happy. I thought Sauer was a very good signing for PHX and not too expensive unlike the insane contract Finger got.
I haven’t heard a thing about PMB lately. Maybe “the big thing” has something to do with trade talks involving PMB or Gabby………
The news isn’t looking good for Hossa coming here according to TSN. Apparently, the Wild haven’t even given him an offer. What was all that talk about something big happening with Hossa, PMB, and a three-way deal? Blasphemy!
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242175&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main
Bickel’s gone? Who’s going to offset Ness? Dang, best of luck to him
Awesome work and loads of info. Thank you and God Bless and a quick recovery!
Thanks for allthe updates onall the teams, it is nice to know the Strib isa single source for NHL info.
Simply great work.
Will miss Rolston, but folks, he went back home and got good money to do it…too bad Wild could not match, as his 30 goals and chemistry with team mates will be missed..he tested the market, and while we may never know about all the offers he got, NJ is where he began and it must be ‘home’for him.
GOOD LUCK BRIAN!
WE’LL BE WATCHING!
Yeah, apparently Bickel was signed today…leaving the U after only a year. 3-yr deal with the Ducks
Bruins get Ryder.
Fedoruk a Mill a year? From recycled fighter off of waivers to a 3year $3,175,000 contract?
Good luck Buddha!
Ryders gone to Boston
Pagnotta at TFP is reporting that Ryder has received some offers, but nothing close. Guess the Wild did talk to him, but no decisions yet, and Kalinin, Avery, and Morrison have had calls, and Demitra is fielding offers. My bet is he’s comparing notes with Hossa before making any decisions. Wild spoke to Huselius, but nothing yet, but we knew that ’cause Russo told us first.
I’m sorry, I do not want to see Huseius or Kalinin. I can see neither fitting in with a defensive JL style. Grab a decent center and I think the options open up quite a bit. There’s still a pretty good field out there.
Ryder’s gone now, signed with Boston.
Marty Straka is still there too, and Avery’s in play, but those are about the only two centers besides Morrison who we could afford, and we surely don’t need a gimped center to go down 3 weeks into the season.
4m a year for Ryder. The B’s overpaid bigtime. Heh. Now that most of the GM’s are out of money, maybe we can make some quality offers for someone that’s left and actually get one at a reasonable price.
MuN…I think TB still has a gazillion dollars to spend.
Russo Update: Not big news but confirmed that Wild is after Huselius. Will speak again Wednesday.
Mister Kristian
Oh the time has come
And you know that you’re the only one
To say O.K.
Where you going
What you looking for
You know those boys
Don’t want to play no more with you
It’s true
You’re motoring
What’s your price for flight
In leaving Keenan twice
You’ll be a Wild tonight
Apologies to Night Ranger…
Why do I have the feeling that this will end up the same as the trade deadline. It’s Christmas Eve, you go to bed hoping for that Red Ryder BB gun, you wake up, and all you get is a pink bunny suit.
You’re motoring
What’s your price for flight
In leaving Keenan twice
You’ll be a Wild tonight
100% pure gold.
I think this goes in the Russoville Comments HoF - IF he signs here, of course. 
Bullmoose: I have the same feeling as you do. I just don’t see him wanting to play here. I hope I am wrong.
from faceoffcircle.net
10:27 PM - According to CKAC, Michael Ryder has signed with the Boston Bruins for 3 years, $12M ($4M Cap Hit). Also, Kristain Huselius has according to RDS signed with the Anahiem Ducks.
Huh? Huselius, Anaheim? I thought the Ducks had like $50K to spend. Guess Schneider’s on the way out.
from TFP:
10:26pm ET - The Oilers are expected to speak with Hossa’s agent, Ritch Winter, later today… Kristian Huselius isn’t going to make a decision tonight, from what I’m told. He should make his selection tomorrow, and I’m hearing the Wild are pushing hard to get him.
kj: Even my wife thinks that’s funny!
Let’s hope ‘Mister Kristian’ goes thru with it and signs here…
Tomorrow, tomorrow, it must be, tomorrow, it’s only a day…a-way!
GF just walked by wearing a cheerleader uniform… I will be back in 3-4 minutes… LOL
you mean guy fieri from foodTV is wearing a cheerleader get up? ish.
I know it’s late but still needed to be commented on
thanks NiNY. Just saw that myself.
KiPA: or Selanne’s done. Weird one, for sure.
That too, Nick. He has no contract, so they certainly can’t squeeze him in right now. nhlnumbers says Anaheim’s at $54.463 with 19 players signed.
Rumor and innuendo until he signs on the dotted line!
Never one to leave a good thing alone:
Kris you know
You’re growing old so fast
And yo mama’s worrying
That your deal won’t last
To say “Let’s Play…”
Mister Christian
There’s so much in life Don’t you give it up
Before your groin is through
Not thru
It’s not thru
Motoring
What’s your price for flight
You’ve got Gaborik in your sight
And he’ll be signing tonight
Motoring
What’s your price for flight
From leaving Keenan twice
You’ll be a Wild tonight
Anaheim can do what Schmidty suggested, sign only 20 players
Blues already matched the Backes offer, according to tsn
Good point sunshine.
Pittsburgh blog: “The Penguins offer to Hossa stands at five years at slightly more than $7 million annually. The team is confident it can retain Hossa.”
Pfft. Please. No way that deal’s keeping him. They’ve lowballed all their big UFAs. Ugh. I’d like what the Pens management is smoking (apparently there were some internet reports that ownership told Shero to up the offer).
OK, I’m no DR basher, but if there’s one thing I’m annoyed at it’s what seems to be an ever-changing style of play. After ‘07, we needed to get tougher. Now, forget tougher, we need to be more agile. Pick a style and go with it already.
Kris you know
You’re growing old so fast
And yo mama’s worrying
That your deal won’t last
To say “Let’s Play…”
that’s just brilliant writing, right there.
kj: I think you were just anointed the Russoville Bard.
ok gang….thanks for a fun day. It’s nice to be able to talk puck in July no matter what.
A domani!
KiPA - your team has some high class problems. It’s gotta be tough when you have Sid and Geno and you know they will eat up a considerable amount of cap space for the foreseeable future. Realistically, can you really spend another $7-8M on a forward?
Possibly. Depends what Fleury’s going to end up making.
With all these Sister Christian lyrics flyin’ I had to log onto puretracks music and buy a few Night Ranger tunes, ‘course including “Sister Christian”..listening to it now…
I think DR will get back to the toughness factor relatively quick after our wingers are pushed around. Anyone noticed that the Canucks signed Darcy Hordichuk, an enforcer? So, now they have Burrows, Kesler, and Hordicuck.
DR might also going for the Fedoruk/Voros/Weller toughness who can play some hockey instead of straight enforcer like Boogaard.
I heard Gary Roberts on CBC radio - he was discussing Mats Sundin. He believes Sundin is still trying to work out in his mind if he even wants to play another season. Roberts speculated that if Sundin returns next season he won’t make that decision for a while and it won’t be because of big money.
Hopefully this means he has no immediate interest in the Canucks offer.
Russo - thanks so much for the great blog. Didn’t get a chance to follow along this weekend, but It was great to catch up. Hopefully DR can still fill those few holes left!
Interesting, Aaron. There was speculation on faceoffcircle that he would likely sign with VAN and that if he did, Naslund would re-sign, too.
This was a heckuve lot more exciting than the trade deadline. Until the dust clears hard to actually size up where everybody sits. This sure beat analyzing an M&A agreement though. More fun tomorrow I hope. Seems like D’s got overpaid by quite a bit. Kudos to Rolston for pulling that contract. Wonder how the Devils will feel about that come year 3. $10M for each of 2 years for Sundin–whew.
Huselius has “bad deal” written all over him, I think. He’s a 20/20 ish guy here. Had one year in CGY where his shot % was higher than normal. Hell, Dupuis nearly had 50 pts here one season. We get him we’re going to see a guy who expects to get skill-guy minutes pushed to the third line when he hits a slump, and he won’t claw is way out of it.
Man, I have never been a Wild fan, but I gotta say that I appreciate the way that Russo tells it like it is for his team as well as all others. Strong work, some of the most impartial and objective I have seen. Zidlicky is going to bring some offense to the blue line, and I agree that Finger getting that contract from Toronto is absurd!!Anyways, the Wild better get going, because everyone else in their already tight division is making big moves…they may get left behind. Thanks again for the strong work!
“Weller:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cc6Sn8EPzRk&feature=related”
Wow, that was very Burns-esque! I like what I saw. Hopefully this guy turns out to be a good pickup! Woot!
funny, ATX. I was just watching Weller’s fights from last season on hockeyfights.com. i know this much - he’s waaaay better in that dept. that Voros was. I’d like a better idea of what kind of player he can be.
Indeed Hockeydad, I just found this too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YbimmUofIA
He seems to stand up for his teammates too… we need some of that for sure. I think I might like this Weller guy.
I am going to say that Weller is a huge upgrade from Voros. The kid can definitely fight.. and I have yet to see one video of him trying to chest someone to death. Seriously, that was embarrassing.
The biggest question will be:
Will Weller be on the same line as Gaborik?
lol sunshine, I hope not.
Gotta like Bruno with Gabby, no? We are still very short at forward.
And by the way, that jab about not wishing me luck with my surgery, I meant that in jest.
Screw you then!
(Is this in jest or not? I’ll let you decide.)
Huselius? Rather see them go all in on Hossa or work some trade to get a center. Wingers they got, centers they don’t.
g’night everyone.
Wingers they got, centers they don’t.
So you want them to pursue Hossa?
So, just to be clear, Pouliot is going to be a center (probably this year) and Gillies is going to be a winger (this year or next), correct?
Finally back on here and it took about one hour to cach up, wow!
Buddha - Good luck tomorrow, you are about to find out what really counts in life!
Bullmoose - LOL on the X-mas analogy, so true.
kj - What can I do but second NiNY request on your Russoville Bard award. How can Kristian sign with anyone else after that song.
What a day and to think it will probably be more of the same tomorrow. Regarding the Sundin to Nukes deal another nuts deal in the same style as Leaf’s Finger signing. Mats is a great player but his is not a $10 Mil/year player. Realistically what’s the nukes chance of winning the next few years. IMO it’s not like they are one player away from being considered a real contender. Offers like this just messes up the whole system for everyone.
Sorry I’m getting tired and need to get off that soap box.
Night all!
Personally, I see little point in overpaying for a goal scoring center. It’s just not what centers do under JL.
Not saying this re: Hossa specifically, just catching up with the comments since about 5:30 this evening.
Russo … thanks a million and good luck, you are an asset here, this has been an interesting day! Your work is much appreciated, Phone calls coming in to me today at work, “did you see the update? No where are you getting it, Russo? Yeah, he says they just signed Zidlicky” Thanks Michael (Mike?)
ok, last thing - I was just looking at the roster and we need more center depth to be sure, but holy crap our wingers collectively suck right now. Assuming we keep PMB, who would play on his line with him? Parrish? I’m thinking wing combos might look something like this (not that it matters to JL):
Gabby-Bruno
PMB-Parrish (don’t like)
SRV-Clutterbuck
4th liners: Weller/Boogie/Foy/anyone else
Also, now that we have Zidlicky, I don’t really see a need for Bergeron. I wuold rather have a tougher, stay-at-home type guy (like Sauer) than Bergeron at this point.
I think it’s bedtime for me as well. Exciting day overall I think (wow Chicago, PHX, and TB!) and I will look forward to more stuff tomorrow. I think DR did pretty well today, hopefully these moves pan out for the Wild. Thanks a million for the updates Russo, you are definitely the best in da biz (your ego must be getting HUGE!). Good night peeps!
P.S. for KJ: Great job on the Sister Kristian song! Great stuff!
night HD!
Just out of curiosity HD, but what makes you think Clutterbuck will make the team in place of Gillies? I think I read that Gillies will be a wing in our system.
you too Austin!
nothin’ really, ATX - but I see them filling different roles. Gillies more of a top-6 forward. Someone needs to pair with SRV on a checking/energy-type line - Clutterbuck seemed like the logical successor to radio.
OK, really, now I must sleep.
just a general question:
can the wild go over the cap with foster on ir?
Russo, I’ve seen it mentioned that Shep and Bruno wear the same number. As a result one of them is going to need to switch things up. Whoever that might be, Bruno or Shep should let the fans vote on what number they should wear.
It seems by the Wild getting a little more punch from the defense, it probably increases Parish’s role in front of the net!
If he is taking a beating there but no one is shooting then his effectiveness is more limited.
So, perhaps these acquistions of Bergeron and Zidlicky have more potential than on the surface.
Kevin: I meant if they’re going for a winger, go all in for Hossa, otherwise, I’d rather see them get a center than go after some lesser wing like Huselius.
Ahh, gotcha Bull.
Wow 20 million dollars for Rolston. Good Old Wally would rather have Brunette. Whats wrong with that picture ? 3 more million for Rolston is whats wrong. What is New Jersey smoking… Ouch Tampa Bay, Brian Lawton gets one big strike against for not getting Rolston. You give up a 4th rounder for air…. I likey !
I really like the Wilds direction. They are doing the right things. CAN YOU IMAGINE CARL POHLAD AND HIS SONS WORKING AS HARD TO DO THE RIGHT THING AS THE WILD HAVE DONE ??? THAT TEAM MADE A GOOD PROFIT LAST YEAR, AND THE PAYROLL WENT LOWER THIS YEAR. THE SONS AND CARL SHOULD LEARN FROM THE WILD ABOUT WORKING HARD. BRAVO DR !!
What about Demitra ? No Word. That is Good Old Wallys man. He can play
Kari Takko: Bruno will get to wear #15. He has seniority over Shep. I don’t know what Shep will wear, #51?
Hey Russo amazing work today and thanks to everyone else on the blog for all the updates!
Risebrough has his real work cut out for him getting #10 to re-sign. Gabby might get blasted a lot by the fans but he is a franchise player and he does draw interest from the casual fans.
Please sign Huselius and then Holik and we will be ready to go. Weller is a high energy cat who will do some damage in the Northwest.
Holik has re-signed with the Devils.
Jim Pohlad is too busy making his movie sequel… Brokeback Twins…
Isn’t M. Satan still unsigned?
Sunshine - I thought he always belonged to the Devils…?
ms. conduct really, really, wants Satan to belong to the Devils.
A guy can hope for a new center to wear the iron range red….
Seriously, though, Satan’s numbers dipped this past season but he is a very durable guy. Plays about 81 games a year.
Do you think he is one of the guys we could be after? He is 34 years-old and a change of scenary might be good for him.
I don’t know if he is physical or anything like that.
I don’t know if he is physical or anything like that.
He’s European.
(So, no.)
It’s a name I’ve wondered if the Pens might go after..but his dwindling production scares me a little. But a change of scenery might help.
KiPA - easy….there my friend…
You have to admit that the NYI weren’t that great either this year. I mean Comrie had the most points at 49. Guerin had the most goals with 23.
Absolutely, sunshine, and I have taken that into account, but the fact that Satan is also aging made me place not as much emphasis on his bad team. He’ll need to take a paycut of course, but I wouldn’t object if the Pens did see if he finds a new life with Sid (though it would bring back horrid memories of another aging Slovak, Zigmund Palffy).
And BDS: I kid, I kid.
(I’m still right though.
KiPA - I know and you are probably correc again
God, I just hope that we get someone good.
Toronto Sun.com Studs and Duds of the Day
http://torontosun.com/Sports/2008/07/02/6038341-sun.html
[WINNER
Minnesota Wild. It signed the dependable Andrew Brunette, a former Wild player, for the oddest thing on free-agent frenzy day: A reasonable price. Brunette agreed to three years and $7 million in what was the probably the best dollar-for-dollar buy on the day.]
Re: Marek Zidlicky
After I found out about this trade, my first thought revolved around how badly his name would be mispronounced by all the local TV sports anchors. Sure enough, on the late news, ‘Rosen predictably botched it and even hockey puck Jimmy Rich was 1 for 2. Guys! Just consult Bob Kurtz and ask him how to pronounce the difficult names. Either that or hire me to handle the hockey reporting!!!!
Eh, not a bad day overall. I really like our how our defense is shaping up.
Also glad to see Weller come to Minnesota. I watched him a lot (live in phx) this year. He doesn’t fight a whole lot, but will not hesitate to if need be. Also he a great team guy who really sticks up for his mates. I think you all will like him. Doesn’t put up many points, but he works hard, is good on the forecheck, and is good in the corners/cycling the puck.
I dont get where the NHL will make the money back it is paying the players. They get no TV money. Most of the rinks dont sell out. Even if it did sell out, where does the money come from?
Hey Not just another Paul, what a special talent you have being able to pronounce no-name loser hockey players that no-one gives a crap about. No one cares. And, the fact that you do says alot about your goals in life.
Hey “Yawn”…Sports anchors/reporters jobs are to convey information….correctly and accurately!!! How would you like it if your name was mispronounced over the air, on a near daily basis?? Not so much, me thinks.
hey yawn; did you run out of tp and had
nothing better to do to get on this blog?
get sister kris (nice work kj) and morrison and we are good to go!
“Rolston certainly got his big payday…..Wild made an effort, but you can see why it didn’t get him…..”
Made an effort? Day late and millions of dollars short. Every arm chair GM knows that if you want a qualitly player who still has gas in the tank to take the home town discount, you need to sign him before free agency.
What was Risebrough thinking? They knew last summer (if not sooner) that this was going to be a weak free agent class.
Brutal..
OddManRush
I don’t think it was ever stated how much DR did actually offer.
The previous inaccurate claim of 3.5mil was stated as ‘way low’ and Rolston said he received a quality offer.
In that case, if it’s above 3.5mil, I don’t see how its ‘millions of dollars short’
“I’d say the biggest (move) has happened,” said Risebrough, who continued to work through Tuesday evening. “We might do something else big, but it won’t be bigger than this.”
ARE YOU KIDDIN ME????????
Hey, the blog is finally working! Great day to do maintenance IT.
Was it them doing maintenance or did someone sneeze on the server?
Didn’t we all say that he would get $5 million for at least 3 years? He got one more year than we expected. Most of us knew that the Wild was not going to offer the $5 million. Even Tampa Bay didn’t offer him $5 million.
Russo on KFAN did say that he thinks the Wild offered him $4.5 million probably for 3 years prior to trading his rights to Tampa Bay.
We are back!
Get that Huelius deal done!!! Then add Morrison or Fedorov at center.
3 cheers for the Strib IT department putting down the Wii and getting Russoville connected again. I have a feeling Dougie Ballgame’s definition of “Big” is going to be slightly different than what we here in Russoville would consider “Big”.
Good thing nothing important happened this morning while the blog was down, like the Wild signing Hossa or Huselieus or anyone else for that matter!
Would a Huselius or Morrison signing be considered bigger than trade for Zidlicky and signing Bruno?
I guess its in the eye of the beholder. He did say they had big moves but none bigger than yesterday.
Signing Bruno cannot be considered a “Big” move; neither is Weller. The Zidlicky trade is a good move if that’s Dougie’s big move for Free Agency, it would be on par with his huge splash at last year’s trade deadline. Bringing in Huselius would be a good move, but at this point, “Big” would have to include the names Hossa and/or Gaborik with the phrase “long-term contract” at the end.
regarding Hossa:
Minnesota-”Could quietly sweep in and steal this”
I agree with Deep Breath’s assesment. Since the Hossa thing isn’t happening, I think Huselius is as “big” as we might realistically hope for.
Would a Huselius or Morrison signing be considered bigger than trade for Zidlicky and signing Bruno?
Why is DR obsessed with always spinning expectations? We know Huselius is bigger than Zidlicky or Bruno seperatly if not together and Morrison would fill a giant need. Admiting to past mistakes is a good first step but DR should move towards just telling it like it is.
I don’t think it would be quiet. In all of the other NHL blogs I’ve seen the past day and a half, (Hockeybuzz.com, etc) aside from the Grease being on Hossa like mold on a shower curtain, Minnesota has always been listed as one of the teams “interested” in him.
*ms. conduct really, really, wants Satan to belong to the Devils.*
Yes. It would be the greatest jersey in the history of hockey. The Ms. Conduct on your shoulder is telling you to DO IT, Devils!!!
Okay, so after Russo’s little lecture (thanks dad) on accepting that role players will come and go, I’ve shimmied into my big girl panties and dried my Fridgerated tears and am on the road to embracing the new guys and letting go of the old. This Weller kid looks like one I’ll be fond of (but only for 2 years and then I’ll wave goodbye again… see how I learn quick?)
Last night the sytem seems to have eaten my post.
The addition of two puck shooting defensemen might have an added benefit of increasing Parish’s role with the team.
Think of Parish’s strengths?
If nobody shoots when Parish is getting beat up in front of the net, the labor is all for naught.
At the end of the season, the appearance is that Parish is at fault, but maybe it has been only that no one is shooting.
Point being, maybe Parish can take up some of the slack of losing Rolston.
it was reported that DR told #10 expect an extension at the end of the month. at least i think i read that. so i wouldn’t expect that to happen today.
SK would be big considering what is now left.
Re: Hossa, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:
“An interesting note: We spoke with several reporters in Edmonton, who said the Oilers have press conference planned for 11:30 a.m. (MST). The presser is to introduce new Oilers owner Daryl Katz, who is said to be intent on making a big splash early in his tenure.
A few Edmonton reporters believe the Oilers have made an offer for Hossa that would pay at least $9 million annually. There are rumblings that a deal for Hossa could be announced by Katz at this schedule presser.
Of course, keep in mind that many reporters inside and outside of Boston thought a four-hour delayed press conference Tuesday night would result in the Bruins announcing they had signed Hossa. It turns out the big announcement was the inking of forward Michael Ryder.
A handful of agents have told us that Edmonton has thrown a big offer at Hossa. Another word used to describe the offer: stupid.”
Hey as long as we brought Brunno back why dont we just reunite the whole old team and sign Dodd and get Darby to get off of his couch and take some key face offs for us. Hah. Did anybody really expect anything different than what happened so far?
Off topic a bit, for which I apologize.
Several times on here over the years, I’ve praised the Center Ice package and Direct TV service that I use. It was even better this past season when NHL Network came along as part of Center Ice on ch. 215.
Yesterday I went to watch NHL Network coverage of the free agency stuff, and the channel was blocked. I contacted Direct TV and was told that I wouldn’t get NHL Network back until next season, when I renew my Center Ice subscription. I asked if I could pay for next year’s Center Ice right now and get NHL Network, and was told that no, I couldn’t pay for it until the season starts.
I wanted to know why a multi-year Center Ice customer wouldn’t continue to get NHL Network during the off-season, and I got a response telling me I had to upgrade to a different package with a bunch of crap channels if I wanted it year-round.
So I’m here to apologize for my earlier positive comments about Direct TV. I think this is a horrible way to treat a customer who buys a premium package, and now I’m going to be looking to switch providers.
FYI - new stuff above!
I’ve shimmied into my big girl panties
your not talking granny panties here are you? no gal should be relagated to granny panties.
Sorry the blog blew up Mikey!
Thanks for the late night effort, I suppose your arse is sore from sitting on it all day!
So I’m here to apologize for my earlier positive comments about Direct TV. I think this is a horrible way to treat a customer who buys a premium package, and now I’m going to be looking to switch providers.
while switching is always one’s perogative, I say good luck finding HD selection and PQ with other providers.
It shouldn’t have been a surprise that NHL channel was turned off. It was listed to me as free with CI.
it is included in total choice plus or whatever the name of that package is now.
Anyone else a little more than concerned that it has been almost 9 months since Walz quit and Dougie Ballgame has still not rectified the center position on this team. Do we expect to improve from a year ago with A 20-yr-old as the #2 center; a Belanger who was grossly ineffective the last couple of months of the season and B-B-Benny whom they seemingly cannot decide if he should play with the big club or not? There are still options available to improve the position but I just wish Dougie would put down his poster of Rosie in her ass-less chaps and get something done. Not really enthused about starting the 08-09 season with Mikko-Shepp-Belanger-Pouliot at the center position.
Amazingly, he’s got the same cell phone from when I covered him pre-lockout.
Was that in Florida?
Man, I was actually left to do work this morning. Glad the blog’s back up.
Oh no.
Hossa to Detroit.
the wild cannot have both wayne hossa and SK. hopefully they are sitting on the one more likely to sign. hate to miss out on both because one cat leads you to believe you have a shot but in reality you don’t.
“Oh no.
Hossa to Detroit.”
Where do you see this?
The site might take a while to load, it’s been pretty slow the last couple of days.
would sundin be crazy enough to play here for less than $10mil per?
For all of you who are still talking about a big deal being made I will repeat my last post
“I’d say the biggest (move) has happened,” said Risebrough, who continued to work through Tuesday evening. “We might do something else big, but it won’t be bigger than this.”
Unbelievable. as if a big deal has even been made by bthe Wild…
Good to see that the janitor that swept the server room at the Star Trombone figured out where the plug he pulled with his broom finally went.
Thanks Kevin. Hopefully it’s just rumor… That would suck if he went to the toilet.
NHL Live is talking about the Pittsburgh piece also.
NHL Live: a 1 year deal for Hossa in DET is the rumor
BNAG - either that or they just didn’t pay their bills. Didn’t they not decide to not pay a few creditors yesterday.
If Hossa is gone there might be some more movement happening.
What was up with the Huselius to Fawl deal yesterday.
One year deal with detroit by TSN
hossa 1 year in detroit
Hossa signed one-year deal with Wings - per TSN via NHL Live
the piece does say they believe that hossa has told them he won’t resign with pitts. so may be solid lead but not confirmed.
G* - I understand the deal, that it’s free with CI. But I paid for CI, and will buy CI again in the fall - I even offered to pay for next year’s CI now, but they wouldn’t take my money.
Why not keep NHL Network going until the start of the season, and then, if a customer doesn’t renew CI, cut it off?
Are they saving any money by not providing July, Aug. and Sept. NHL Network? And are those savings (I don’t believe there are any) worth ticking off a repeat customer that pays for a premium service? Seems like a poor marketing strategy to me.
7.4 million
$7.4 million for Hossa
1-year deal? That sounds fishy
1 year 7.4 Mil
I like it we are all on the ball!!!
Detroit repeat?
speculation is that he wants to win the cup and then sign a big deal next year.
So he’s taking way less to play for 1 year? That makes no sense
Hossa takes one year deal in Detroit…Gabby will be FA after next year, then they will both go to the same team…
Who saw that coming? Wow. From an economic perspective, not smart for Hossa. But he obviously would like to win a cup, then make his money long-term.
Whew. No mention of any Wild/Bertuzzi rumors.
So far…
He wants to win the Stanley Cup.
Alright, DR go and get Huselius or maybe……Sundin…
Try sending email to support. I’ve gotten better results thru that channel than CSR’s on the phone. sometimes it takes 2 or 3 but you may get better satisfaction.
might also help to ask for supervisor on the offer to pay CI in advance. I’ve found that all the front line reps are good for is telling you how to reboot your receiver.
WTF!! You guys crashed Russo’s!!! I’ve been unable to get it to respond since last night. Have I really missed much (other than the song stylings of kj) or was I getting the gist of things from my back up over at Mirtels blog and TSN’s signings tracker?
I really want to know if Shepps gonna give up #15 the easy way or if there’s gonna be a showdown at high noon?
Sheep: I’m wearin’ that number now old man.
Bruno: You’ll be wearing this roll of duct tape if you don’t give it up kid…. (cue spaghetti weastern music)
Wow, I guess Detroit wants a repeat. That’s crazy.
Detroit repeat?
absolutely. i say cancel the season. no one watches on TV anyway so versus won’t care.
I’m going to throw up.
Well, I never really thought we would land Hossa but this is a surprising development. So, he can be an FA again next year. Cap will go up again and he can sign a big contract.
I wonder how many calls Demo has received? thought Van was hot and heavy to sign him?
Just goes to show, sulking like a little beeeatch in your final year doesn’t open too many doors.
right, so if they win the cup, look to see him back in atlanta for 12 million per. and watch him coast the rest of his contract.
Band - great visual of that shoot out
I do have a feeling shep will not need to much convincing, but just a guess.
Game 7 in a 1st round series against 8 seed Chicago I hope Lidstrom banks it off the back of Osgood into his own net for a 1-0 loss! Let’s not give them the Cup right now!
Morrison and Naslund! Anyone!?! Anyone?
anyone……….
Klaus, VAN is rumored to be waiting on Sundin. If that’s a no, then it’s believed they would move to sign Demo and re-sign Naslund.
Koivu gave up #21 for Parrish. Shep will absolutely give up #15 for Bruno.
I don’t think any team will be able to afford both FA Hossa and FA Gaby. If the Wild don’t get another big name, they’ll back the money truck up to Gabby’s place.
I agree that Hossa was a longshot to come here but I agree that this is a little surprising.
Well it will hurt all that much more when the Wild upset the wings in the playoffs next year!
Time to Stink it up and get Jon Travares and sign him to an 20 year 11 Million contract without playing a single game. Even if he flops in 2028 11 million will only get you a top 6 D man.
Here’s to hoping Detroit gets bounced in the first
Michael: Any sense as to who the Wild is considering should Huselius fall through?
I am worried about Schmidty
Note to Dougie Ballgame: Big Move = win the Cup and then land the biggest free agent available the following summer at a reasonable cost in order to repeat as Champions.
how the hell does Redden get a 6.5 per year for 6 years from the rangers? how do they have so many 5 mill plus guys? wasn’t redden the biggest pylon in the cup finals that year? did he do anything last year?
G* - I have read that Sundin was very impressed by the Nukes offer, but who wouldn’t be? The problem for the nukes is who else do they have? The sisters and that is about it.
I would think we could lure Mats with a good offerb but who knows. Can we fit both Huselius and Mats under the cap, I think so. It’s time for CL to show us some balls….
Sign no one, call up the bums get a high draft pick. It’s the new NHL thats how you do it!
testicular fortitude.
right. too bad bettman doesn’t love us like he loves Pittsburgh.
DB - Great point!! Are you listening DR!!!!
BDS- you need to double check your math.
Sundin’s current offer $10MM per
Wild’s remaining cap room 9-10 per.
Somehow you think he’ll take half his current offer so we can afford Huselius as well. Keep dreaming!
Wild Philosophy = Addition by Subtraction
Does anyone know how the expansion teams got the third and fourth pick the first year? I know we won the toss and took the 3rd amateur draft over the 1st expansion draft pick. Difference between Rusty Kesla and Gabby? Did we lose a lottery ball system without playing a game?
sign Straka. He should be cheap
Heh… after I saw the Hossa news, the first thing I thought of was KiPA saying something almost verbatim to 11:43.
Band - I started a post yesterday and got interrupted with pesky work crap like I supposed to do that while I’m here.
Here is the converstation between Bruno and Shep.
Bruno: Hey kid, I want my #15 back
Shep: What’s it worth to ya’?
Bruno: I’ve got a pickup. I’ll help you move out of Darby’s basement.
Shep: SOLD!
Maybe now Mats is thinking of joining the Swe….er Detroit Red Wings at a discount to win a ring……………
i think straka got a giant offer from the russian league
I’m sure Schmidty expects the Wild to go after Hossa next season after Gaborik leaves.
Jon - I didn’t say it would be easy but if we move some other salary i.e short bald guy’s it could fit. Who knows I’m probably just dreaming….:)
Hossa on the Red Wings makes me wanna throw up! God I hate them with a passion.
1-year deal? That sounds fishy
Win the Cup. Sign anywhere w/Marion.
Yes yes Shepp will most likely be good about giving up #15, but I’m trying to add some humor here!!! You guys are all crabby and serious. I just lost my job and you don’t see me getting all snarky about trades and signings. Nope I leave the attitude for when the Mr gets home from work, he thinks it’s funny.
Shepp: Please Mr. Brunette, I’ll give you back your number, don’t tape me to the goal and use me for target practice….
Bruno:No no kid. I know your a good about the number thing. I’m just thinking the boys didn’t do a good enough job of welcoming you properly into the NHL. Sorry bout the tutu by the way, that thing looks itchy…. (cue Monty Python theme music)
Dougie is dumb, I think Russo could run the team better
who else do they have
big willie mitchell
a bunch of sissies like burrows and kesler.
the first thing I thought of was KiPA saying something almost verbatim to 11:43.
Yeah… yeah.. look, after last night, I thought well, okay, there’s like a .005% chance he stays.
Leaving seemed inevitable. But to Detroit? For ONE year? One damn year? Ugh ugh ugh. I hope he breaks his neck in the first perseason game.
Band - LMAO!!! Priceless and probably not to far from the truth.
I have been very patient with Doug R. But I think it is time to evaluate a GM who can’t sell playing for the Wild. If I was a owner of a company selling firewood and I had a salesman who couldn’t sell firewood to eskimos, I would probably remove said salesperson. This time of the year, a GM is a salesperson…selling arguably some of the best firewood on the planet, and it’s very cold outside…
Bottom line, Doug can’t sell firewood, let alone refrigerators, to eskimos.
That signing hurts the Wild’s chances at getting any of the other bigtime free agents!
Seriously is GAbby gay that he needs his countrymen to play with and sign with the same team?
WTF this is a business if you wanna be with your boyfriend then spend the offseason together sippin each others tea bags down
Wild = Fail
With Hossa gone (to my most hated team in the league)… the Wild will struggle severly to get better than last year. There just isn’t the horses out there.
Good luck trying to get Gabby to sign DR. Hossa’s 1 year deal should be a tell-tale sign that they are both planning to go somewhere together next year.
Federov and Husselius.
Unless Bruno turns into the reincarnation of Cam Neely, its doomsday in minny, or “sota” as the kids are saying it now adays
Other than the signings of Johnsson and Parrish, has the Wild traded with any Eastern teams or signed Eastern Conference players?
Penguins ownership and management is bitterly disappointed by Hossa’s decision. They believed they would land Hossa to the end, based off conversations with Hossa himself.
Go to hell, Hossa.
G* - Yeah, I forgot about Willie. He’s good for about eh… one or two G’s per year. Note to Smith call Barry and remind him about Willie!
Is there something in the water up in Vancover that makes the GM do strange moves?
Hey im gonna quit my job and go work with my buddy, cuz i like my buddy, and i dont care were we work, but as long as my buddy is there.
Gabby would be the shadow to Hossa, do you thnk Jaques could still skate and be a serviceable 4th line center
With Hossa gone (to my most hated team in the league)…
Wow, sorry dude. Salt in the wound, eh?
Mark my words: Demo signs (with Van?) for ONE YEAR. The Slovak Mafia Strikes back, as ALL THREE go to whatever team they choose next summer
/rant
Psh….I say if Hossa signed for $7.6 mil, then Gabby should sign for $7 flat!
Weller will help the loss of Voros and Fedoryk. I would of rather had Voros or Fedoryk who have a little more rounded game than Weller.
you all guys are ignoring my comments again…. gosh i am going to go blog with my buddy
If the wild manage to land Huselius and a decent center like Federov and (as much as I hate to admit it) Avery, then I think they will have improved the team, although admittedly not by much.
With Hossa gone (to my most hated team in the league)…
Wow, sorry dude. Salt in the wound, eh?
Mark my words: Demo signs (with Van?) for ONE YEAR. The Slovak Mafia Strikes back, as ALL THREE go to whatever team they choose next summer
/rant
Hey, im into 3 ways… who would wear the pants?
If the wild manage to land Huselius and a decent center like Federov and (as much as I hate to admit it) Avery,
Avery got himself in some hot water with some anti-French-Canadian blather.
Not likely.
A) I dont get why Pitt fans would be upset with Hossa. Is it just cause he signed elsewhere and you wanted him?
B) What is with this Hossa and Gabby nonsense? Because Demo came here and him and Gabby were buddies, now we expect that at every turn? Or are they legitimately in love with each other?
Unless taking bad penalties counts I don’t know how anyone can describe Voros’ game as ‘more rounded’
Lemmi - good point I guess Hossa didn’t really help the others in raising the market with his deal to the Wings. So Wild fans step away from the ledge…
By the way there is no way any team will be able to fit both Gabby and Hossa on the same team next year.
I don’t know build, for some reason I see Avery as a classic DR type signing a la Chris Simon.
Re: Federov
Last year, Russo reported that DR was close with the CBJ GM and that GMs loive to do deals with their buddies. CBJ traded Federov for a 2nd round pick that was a freshman with Notre Dame. If DR liked Federov you would think he would have beat that offer unless he didn’t have anything they wanted, CBJ loved the ND gut (they could have seen him in the CCHA often) or CBJ wanted to send Federov east to not hinder there long shot chance at the playoffs (although, if this is true, how does trading Foote to the Avs make sense?). So my guess is that DR does not like Federov but I could be wrong.
KB: A.) In case you forgot the SC Finals, Pitt was playing Detroit. I.E. - One of the guys you were trying to resign long term for the same price goes to the team that just beat you.
B.) Marian Hossa is DEMO’s BFF, not Gabby’s, but no one seems to remember that.
Go to hell Hossa.
GO.
TO.
HELL.
while I like #10 and do think he is in the top ten of offensive talent in the league, not extending him and consequently trading him may not be a bad thing.
he has many positives but many negatives as well. all of which were discussed here ad infintum last season.
Kevin, I sense anger in you. This is not the path to the Force.
By the way there is no way any team will be able to fit both Gabby and Hossa on the same team next year.
Mark my words.
…And why not? All they have to do is take a “hair cut,” and it’s a done deal.
I would tell you Kevin he was already there during the playoffs, but I can see you are emotionally unstable right now and that would be mean.
Vancouver Canucks sign UFA goaltender Curtis Sanford.
When Louie gets pulled it would be a dream come true if the music guy at the X would play the Sanford and Son song.
Sorry still upset from my 8th grade year and the star guins finals.
Why are we mad at Hossa? He goes to the team that just beat us, for the same price, for ONE YEAR.
ONE YEAR.
What does that mean? It means he wants a Cup, then he’s going to go make $10 million from someone else. It’s a complete hanger-on move. It’s like when Ray Bourque was traded from Boston to Colorado, except Boston did him a favor by doing it. Hossa says “Detroit’s the only team that’s winning the Cup, so I’m giving it one shot, then I’ll worry about my bank account.”
If it was a multi-year deal, or for more money, fine. I don’t fault Hossa for wanting more money. But it was basically the same amount the Penguins offered.
It’s like he’s 49, not 29, and has just one more shot at the Cup. That’s what he’s saying.
I am completely irrational right now and I can’t even focus my thoughts any more so I’m done.
GO TO HELL HOSSA!
they wanted to dump the salary and get something out of the deal. foote said he would only go to colorado. so they got something for nothing, and saved soem money in the process.
G*: Gabby has so many negatives that JL thought appropriate to give him the “C”. Signing him to an extension has to be Dougie Ballgame’s #1 priority at this point, since he is content with starting the season with the same 4 centers he ended last year with.
Well, if DR can’t sign Gabby this summer to a long term deal, he better trade him.
one year contract? maybe because the slovaks plan on gabby being a free agent in 2009 and they want to sign together.
hossa not resigning with pittsburgh and pittsburgh not winning the cup last year makes the deadline move to get hossa by pittsburgh a colossial failure.
remember, it doesn’t matter how far you get or competing for a cup, it is winning a cup and only winning a cup that matters.
<iI don’t know build, for some reason I see Avery as a classic DR type signing a la Chris Simon..
Ahhh. Gotcha. Agreed.
while I like #10 and do think he is in the top ten of offensive talent in the league, not extending him and consequently trading him may not be a bad thing.
Agreed…to the extent that we obtain equivalent value in trade.
Hossa signed for only one year because the Russian League that is trying to start up has guaranteed him $15 million a year in tax-free money to start playing in the fall of 2009. Knowing that he only would be in the NHL one more year, he wanted to go to the team he feels has the greatest chance of winning the CUP.
avery to dallas 4/16 mil
Faceoff circle blog saying rumor is Sundin may be taking a huge pay cut and sign a one year deal with detroit to win a cup…
Good God…this could suck.
hossa not resigning with pittsburgh and pittsburgh not winning the cup last year makes the deadline move to get hossa by pittsburgh a colossial failure.
Not necessarily. I completely agree that winning the Cup is what matters. The trade is a failure, yes. I’m not ready to call it a colossal failure yet. Armstrong and Christensen are unlikely to pan out to much. It depends on the other two things we gave up. If they pan out to be great players, then yup, colossal.
Failure for sure, but time will tell the extent of it.
Boy, I can’t wait for another lockout in a few years though. How about you all?
Hossa to Det is a smart move for both. Detroit has the room, and Hossa gets a bona-fide chance to play for a proven cup contender. Next year, he can weigh his options as will Kenny Holland.
Sanford to Vancouver? LOL wtf for?
Now I understand Calgary signed Glencross.
And Demitra will not be coming back I guess. He’s got offers from other teams. Watch him take a pay cut to go play with his other BFF in Detroit now.
DB - You just stole my thunder!!! He gets his cup and then he’s off to Europe.
KiPA, so just to make sure I’m getting this right, you’re upset with Mr. Hossa?
On Hossa to Detroit…
I think I just threw up in my mouth a little.
Watch him get receive a career ending injury this season and never be able to cash in again. Wouldn’t that be ironic?
Just got this from Mirtel
Sean Avery has signed a four-year contract for $16-million with the Stars.
Sorry, can’t get italics to work today.
remember, it doesn’t matter how far you get or competing for a cup, it is winning a cup and only winning a cup that matters
Thank you.
I just never get tired of hearing that.
Just.
One.
Cup.
KiPA, so just to make sure I’m getting this right, you’re upset with Mr. Hossa?
Absolutely not. I respect his decision. I don’t know where you get a crazy notion like that.
(Biting tongue.)
Watch him get receive a career ending injury this season and never be able to cash in again. Wouldn’t that be ironic?
One can hope.
I mean.
What a terrible thing to say.
btw, you hit the issue with trading Gabby. The real trick there is to get players back who can help you now, not just a load of prospects.
My friend just said: “this is like the day I found out there’s no Santa Claus.”
Are you gus serious about Hossa cashing in. How much do you think he has in his saving account before today? I think he is going to be fine. Maybe writing it all the way out helps $7,000,000.00 Yup it Does
Sorry - “btw” = bfw
Hey Kevin it could be worse at least he is not in your division.
Plus you can still get Jagr!
Avery 4yrs/16M is a LOT of money. Kinda screwing with the market for Sis Kris.
That’s true, edubs, though I think this is still the worst case scenario.
Sorry - “btw” = bfw
No worries.
—-
kj- If your out there, your “Mister Kristian” penning was phenOMenal!!
Im sorry but the uproar and emotional tangents from Pitt fans are laughable. Separate yourself from your passion for a second. Hossa was in Pitt for like 4 months, he has no connection, he doesnt care about you. No offense, but thats life, thats business. Pitt bought him as a mercenary and thats how hes acting. This is the big leagues, welcome.
It wouldnt have been as bad if you would have had Malkin signed up before today. I think if you listen closely you can hear Evgini asking for a raise, “Hey boss now that you have the extra 7 Million how about a little for us 2nd line guys.”
Gabby has so many negatives that JL thought appropriate to give him the “C”.
i think that was JL’s way of prodding his star to be a star.
look i’ve heard from people who know people in the room that JL and #10 don’t care for each other much. that the room had a line down the middle with the frogs on one side and the mafia on the other (yawnson in the middle). #10 has made it known he wouldn’t mind playing elsewhere, he has said he told wayne hossa he wouldn’t want to play here. we had to trade for pavol to get him to resign at one point. there is his possible groing problems. his playing when he wants to play that people think he does.
last years team played more like a collection of individuals than a team than any i’ve seen and it was only until they started to do things JLs way and as a team did they right the ship and win the division.
If DR gets a sense that it will always be a major struggle getting #10 to play for team, then it might be in the teams best interest to cut ties.
i don’t want this to happen but i think it is a realistic problem DR has to address.
Plus you can still get Jagr!
Jagr to Det!! 1/$5.8m.
j/k.
“Huselius told me he hopes to make a decision later today on his destination.”
It’s 7:30PM in Sweden, isn’t that ‘later today’?
TSN reports Avery’s deal as $15.5M for 4 years. Still.
It is in my book DP. News please Don Russo!
Last year’s team played like individuals because we had what, 35 UFAs. Send Dougie Ballgame a text and let him know it may not be the wisest of moves to let your top end players play out their contracts until free agency and then just hope those players will be soin love with the beautiful arena that they will jump at the chance to stay in Minnesota because we have so, so much more to offer than silly ‘ol dollars.
Nah… Kristian probably just rolled out of bed. The clubs in Stockholm doesn’t really get going until midnight or later. I’m actually suprised Russo didn’t reach him late last night.
Just to let you know, I’m fine now. Anger’s gone. Disappointment still there, some bitterness, but no anger nor rage.
What a great job you have done keeping us well informed Russo. Thanks!
Watch him get receive a career ending injury this season and never be able to cash in again. Wouldn’t that be ironic?
One can hope.
I mean.
What a terrible thing to say.
Ha ha Kevin. I’m not wishing it on him. But there is always that risk.
Avery to where?
avery to dallas
signing #10 doesn’t mean he is a team guy automatically. there are times that #10 gives the impression that he would be more excited about scoring 60 in a season than winning a playoff round.
anyway, i hope he stays. but if he goes, i will not send back my tickets.
Interesting take on #10, Green*. If it is that bad, then it’s a no-win for the club and DR.
JL is not going to be coaching much longer. he had to be talked into comin back this year (big mistake) time to change the style of play. maybe gaborik would want to stay then
On the bright side regarding Hossa: at least Tampa Bay didn’t get him.
Oh SWEET! I love it!
Consider this:
With the ever-increasing likelihood that an extension will NOT get done for Gabby, coupled with the current Wild signings and the on-going discussion surrounding the “Upper Limit” (as it’s referred to in the CBA): how (in)conceiveable is it that DR is leaving enough “Payroll Range” to accommodate a “blockbuster” trade at this season’s Trade Deadline?
JL is not going to be coaching much longer. he had to be talked into comin back this year (big mistake) time to change the style of play. maybe gaborik would want to stay then
Fair point.
I think if DR is going to trade Gabby it will almost certainly have to be before the season starts. If he can’t sign him this summer, it seems to me, he is likely gone.
His value at the trade deadline would be significantly lower and who knows what will have happened to his groin by then.
bfw: Russo’s story this AM stated that extension talks will begin later with month with good ‘ol #10. What’s with assumption that it’s becoming MORE likely Gabby won’t do an extension?
with = this
exactly. Discussions haven’t even begun other than DR telling Gaborik to expect an extension contract via fax in the next couple of weeks.
not to mention hip surgery this offseason
hi
Food
bfw: Russo’s story this AM stated that extension talks will begin later with month with good ‘ol #10. What’s with assumption that it’s becoming MORE likely Gabby won’t do an extension?
Thanks, lemmi. I did read that earlier today.
I’d say the latest additions to the Gabby-Extension-Funeral-Pyre include:
1. Weller deal.
2. Hossa deal.
3. Lack of “blockbuster” signings (so far.)
I’m not sayin, I’m just sayin’…
…and, of course, the Vinny dea.
not to mention him being dificult to sign in the past
Hossa to Detroit…..the NHL needs an enema.
Green*…you really need to get over your Cup anger…
KiPA…words do not describe how wretched Marian Hossa is for his move. That is despicable.
DR has ZERO chance of signing Gaborik to an extension this year.
bfw…glad you enjoyed the musical tribute to our (hopefully) new winger.
zero chance huh?
amazing i hadnt realized you talked to Gabby about his future plans….
