Koivu Bros. in Minnesota?; End of the line for Gaborik, and who can afford him?; Free agents Wild may pursue
Posted on June 30th, 2009 – 8:55 PMBy Michael Russo
Alert: TSN reporting Sedins re-sign in Vancouver. As I wrote below, I felt that would happen, which means now Marian Gaborik will likely be sought after by L.A., New York or Montreal.
First, you can keep track with Wild news all day Wednesday (and in the future) and throughout free agency here on www.startribune.com/russo and my Twitter at twitter.com/russostrib
I’ll also be on KFAN on Wednesday morning at 9:35 a.m.
The door swings open to free agency at 11 a.m.
The last time the Koivu Bros. were teammates on Xcel Energy Center’s ice, it was during the 2004 World Cup. Could that happen again starting next season?
Let’s put it this way: It’ll likely be up to the Koivus, or another way of saying it is, if they want to make it happen, it probably can. By the way, here’s a feature I wrote on them last October.
The Wild’s expected to make an offer, but it’s not just a sure-thing Saku Koivu signs a deal to play with Mikko.
I talked to Mikko very early this morning my time. I got him on his boat in Turku. He did voice some concerns that he and Saku have been discussing in recent days. Saku doesn’t want to step on Mikko’s toes because this is his team now, they’ve talked about what it would be like to handle the other being criticized publicly if that were to happen and they talked about the distractions it could create if every city they went to turned into a series of Koivu Bros. stories.
He admitted it’s not a big problem and that they know that stuff would die down, but those are a few of the “cons” on their pros and cons list. On the “pros” side, the fact that it would be special for Saku, 8 1/2 years older, and Mikko to play together and that their parents would absolutely love it. He said it’s a “dream” of theirs. You can read about this in the paper.
So we will see. The Wild needs a No. 2 center, whether it’s through acquisition, or perhaps Pierre-Marc Bouchard moving over to the left one slot. Nik Antropov, I guess, is somebody to pursue, but I’m not a big fan. After that, not much in UFA market. Fletcher would have gone after Vik Kozlov, but he’s signed in Russia.
The Wild has a number of holes to fill, and if you go out and sign Marian Hossa or the Sedin Twins, that severely handicaps doing much else. That’s why I think Mike Cammalleri (he can play center, too) or Martin Havlat may be the most logical players to pursue, although Cammalleri could be Toronto bound and receive a really inflated contract.
I hear Havlat, if he gets to 11 a.m. unsigned (and contrary to reports, he was not signed tonight), would have great interest in Minnesota. He’s had lots of injury problems in the past, but as he proved last year, when he’s healthy, he’s a tremendously talented and dominant hockey player. He’s also put up solid playoff numbers.
Because of his history, you might be able to get him in the $5 million range, which means it leaves room to sign maybe Saku Koivu, a Ruslan Fedotenko perhaps (still talking to Pittsburgh) and a couple dmen — Rob Scuderi being one guy I hear would be interested in coming to Minnesota. And considering Fletcher’s history with Scuderi, you can bet there’d be interest from the Wild’s point of view.
Fletcher loves Fedotenko, by the way, who just wins Cups in this league. Havlat and Fedotenko have the same agent, too, in Allan Walsh, so maybe you can kill two birds with one stone.
As for other dmen, if Scuderi’s a no-go, I’d go after Francois Beauchemin. I know there’s a clamoring for Jordan Leopold because of his history here at the U, but I think Fletcher will be looking for more physical dmen than offensive dmen because the Wild is rich in offensive, mobile dmen and as we all know short on the other type.
Some guys that could fit that are Jaroslav Spacek, Karlis Skrastins, Denis Gauthier, Hal Gill and Mikko’s favorite, Mattias Ohlund. Want a Minnesotan? How ’bout Andrew Alberts?
I think Mike Komisarek is too expensive, and man, he did not impress in the playoffs. I see Scuderi’s door being blown over by the Wild.
It’s going to be a very interesting free-agent market because there’s only about 10 teams that can legimately take on a huge contract.
Even with today’s Scott Gomez pickup, Montreal has tons of cap room. Vancouver, Toronto, the Rangers, Dallas, the Islanders, L.A., and the Wild have the most flexibility in the league. Also, if the Sedins don’t re-sign in Vancouver, they might really be in for a reality check as far as this package deal goes. Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto were the only teams maybe, and now Montreal is likely out because I think they’ll go after a single star now (i.e. Gaborik or Hossa). That’s why I really feel sanity’s going to prevail and Sedins re-sign in Van.
Speaking of that, Marian Gaborik’s heading to free agency obviously. Chuck Fletcher and Ron Salcer had a lengthy conversation today I’m told and it went nowhere. As I mentioned the other day, Gaborik turned down that $78.5 million deal because of several concerns he had about the direction of the team. Even though most those concerns are alleviated with the departures of Lemaire and Risebrough, it was going to be impossible to sign him this close to free agency and it appears as if Salcer made that clear to Fletcher during their initial conversation a few weeks ago.
I think Montreal, LA, Vancouver and the Rangers (unless it acquires Heatley tonight as is rumored in some circles) plan to pursue Gaborik. If the Rangers trade for Heatley and Vancouver re-signs the Sedins, suddenly Gaborik starts to get squeezed a bit. But I’m starting to think Montreal is going to be hot after him, with the Rangers if they don’t get Heatley tonight (Edmonton’s got the inside track, but as of 9:10, it’s been hung up because Heatley hasn’t waived no-trade yet, I’m told).
Fletcher has tried to trade Gaborik’s rights so far to no avail. The Vancouver Province story of the house did not help because why would anybody trade for his rights if there’s an impression he’s already found a home. And at this late juncture, why would you give a roll of tape when you know that Ron Salcer’s not exactly the easiest guy to negotiate with and free agency’s in 14 hours?
This is going to be an interesting market because like they always do, the top guys should get their term and their money. The middle of the range guys could get squeezed because like I’ve said, there’s a lot of money in the system and only so many teams that can sign guys to big contracts. And if all of a sudden the Kessels of the world and one of the San Jose forwards (Clowe or Marleau) are traded, that means fewer spots elsewhere for other players.
And Fletcher today again made mention that it’s not just free agency where he could fill holes. It could be via the trade route.
Asked about Craig Leipold’s comments the other day about wanting to get some top players here, Fletcher said, “He wants to win. He wants to have a team that is a competing team right from the get-go next year. I think what he’s expressed to me is consistent with what he’s expressed to you guys. He wants to win. But in terms of whether we do things through free agency or trades or however we get there, I don’t know if that’s as important as the fact we get there.”
OK, talk to you throughout Wednesday.
316 Responses to "Koivu Bros. in Minnesota?; End of the line for Gaborik, and who can afford him?; Free agents Wild may pursue"
Didn’t Calgaryhave to skate with less than 20 skaters toward the end of the year ‘cuz of cap issues?
correct
One rumor writter (TSN?) was saying Antropov was asking 5.5 from NY. Pricey.
there’s a clamoring for Jordan Leopold
that clamoring doesn’t sound like
over-rated
clap, clap, clap, clap, clap
does it?
Some guys that could fit that are Jaroslav Spacek, Hal Gill, Karlis Skrastins, Denis Gauthier, Hal Gill and Mikko’s favorite, Mattias Ohlund
Anxious to get Gill in Minnesota? 
Havlat, Scuderi and Koivu and a second tier D-Man would be a nice haul.
Great info Mike!! We are on the edge of our seats. I would love to see Havelat, Cammalleri, and Saku play 41 games in the X next year. Hopefully players like Burns are not part of the discussions, he is and will continue to be a game changer IMO.
I really hope Gaborik does get “squeezed” tomorrow and that Brent is watching the antics of his agent. If #10 gas to go, I pray it is to someone in the eastern conference, and not Vancouver, that would just make MN fans hate them more!!!
Hall Gill is a Pylon and would not be a good pick up for the Wild. Bye Bye Gabby. I am beginning to think his Agent is a moron.
Word Green*
Sounds like a Gill for Skoula swap. You’re in, right WRT? KiPA? hee hee hee
Thank you Mr. Russo, I was thirsting for more tidbits.
I’m with tom.
Never actually thought that the likes of Havlat would have the Wild on top of their lits…
Top notch Russo! I knew there was a reason I go to your blog several times a day.
Much obliged!
P.S. Hal Gill is garbage. You think Skoula got a bad rap?
Maybe CF waits too long for something to happen and finds that the only big names left are the Sedin twins, and he can get them at a reasonable price.
(Hey! I can dream!)
I can’t wait for 11AM tomorrow! I would love to see Mikko and Saku play together. Good stuff, Russo.
Katie,
I agree Mikko and Saku would rock. Good article Russo.
TSN says Heatley asked to waive his NTC, to Edmonton in exchange for Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner and Ladislav Smid.
TSN saying a Heater trade in the works, asked to waive the NTC for trade to edmonton for Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner and Ladislav Smid.
KiPA what are your thoughts on Gill? Is he better that Serviceable Marty? Havlat, Saku, and Scuderi would equal a productive offseason in my book.
as a Wild fan, I think I’m into that trade seeing as how we get to play the Grease six times a season. Anything that hurts their so-called depth is good for me. And I like to think of a Heatley-size distraction in that locker room for the next few years.
If memory serves, Smid in particular had a couple very solid games against us last year. Cogliano could be a stud, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see Penner have a bounce-back season at some point.
Michael Russo - rock star! Thanks. Really looking forward to Wednesday.
crud I read too fast. TMZ… eh? TSN.. oh yeah.
Didn’t see Skoula enough to compare. Gill was serviceable, but slower than dirt and didn’t use his huge frame enough. Long reach proved effective at times. Solid on the PK.
Similar to Sykora, I won’t be upset if Gill doesn’t re-sign. Pens don’t seem too interested in bringing him back.
Isn’t Gill sort of a younger Sean Hill?
Wow…another dumb contract unloaded.
No wonder the Wild couldn’t get Heatley.
They didn’t have a crap contract to give… 
havlat, scuderi, fedotenko, and koivu. LETS PLAY!!!
KiPA: Skoula…afraid to hit anything, every touch of the puck an adventure, almost destroyed Gaborik’s 5-goal night vs. the Rangers by himself, cost the Wild the NW Division title in 2007, and is definitely slower than Molasses in January. No reach whatsoever (except towards his own net) and was over-used last season. At best, a 6th/7th D. At worst, a skating off-ramp to his own net,
Anything else?
Freedom from Skoula in just under 13 hours…
Tomorrow, tomorrow, free agency tomorrow,
It’s only a day away!
Hill had more offense and skating ability than Gill.
Their names rhyme. That’s the connection.
WRT:
Think you forgot to ad that he is the single responsible party for current economic crisis. 
I still think Russo should have been the GM.
G* your 9:07 made me LOL
Ready for tomorrow. Bring it on.
Into: LMAO
Does anyone know how this twitter thing work? If you sign up do you get text messages from someone your following or do you have to go online to see what was written?
If these new clowns in the Mild front office think that Havlat (Mr. Salty…yeah he’s a pretzel) and Fedotenko are going to get fans excited then they need to think again. My wallet is wide open? We want to win? This owner is delusional if Havlat is the best they can come up. Very disappointing.
WRT…I’m with you. Buh bye Skoula. Go screw up someone else’s defense.
A little voice tells me Skoula just might be back, but at a reduced price. Letting him go to FA, and have few takers, if any, would make it much easier to sign him at a lower number.
OMG I can’t believe I’m even saying this, because for years I screamed at him nonstop at the X. But he’s worked out a few kinks. Remember he was a 1st round draft pick and he’s naturally an offensive guy, but on the JL blueline, he wasn’t allowed to play the way he’s comfortable. On the D, he’s leaps and bounds better this last year than he’s ever been in the past.
As an aside, I think Kim Johnsson’s contract needs to go. You could get 2 Scuderi’s for what we pay Kimmy, and he’s getting older.
But there’s tons of guys available this year, and few teams that can afford them. I like the idea of going after a key player to fill holes, and see what else is available via trade after. If GM’s get an itchy trigger finger tomorrow am, that concept of highway robbery just might come to fruition for us.
Just look at not only the draft list, but the RFA list. A couple teams, Wild included, can throw some cash at RFAs and see if we might be able to snag them, and there’s some damn good names out there!
Mike, any idea if this is real?
http://twitter.com/Trencin10
It’s Gaborik’s twitter. Someone was saying that he had it confirmed via Twitter’s office.
Seriously, if Martin Havlat is the guy they are zeroing in on I think I’ll barf.
Nah, they’re zeroing in on Fedotenko.
Then I think I’ll do a #2 in my shorts.
Have fun with that.
Cripe! Am I the only one here who thinks they need to land a guy like Hossa or the Sedins? Calgary land Bouwmeester, Edmonton is getting Heatley. Gaborik to Vancouver, maybe….and the new clowns in St.Paul are drooling over Havlat and Fedotenko? Did DR really get fired? Sounds to me like he’s still calling the shots. This franchise is officially cursed.
No way that twitter is true. Just because Gaborik speaks like derek zoolander, it doesn’t mean he would type like him.
Gaborik learned to speak English by watching movies. He spoke passable English. Do you really think he could write in English?
Did you just say cripe? Awesome
I think someone could be writing it for him. Seriously, you get 7.5 mil to rehab and you can’t afford someone to text for you?
Alright, to address an oft-repeated comment. Unless there’s a miracle, Kimmy is going nowhere, because that’s a big contract to move. Which is ok with me; yes, he has a hefty cap hit, but that’s not as big a problem this year as it has been in the past.
It probably won’t make a big difference, and like his cap hit or not, he is an extremely reliable d-man on the Wild who is capable of playing big minutes, with an offensive upside that might even be bigger in a new system.
Believe me, I was a vocal opponent of (complainer about) his contract in the past, but I have come to realize that it could be a lot worse. Are we overpaying? Sure, a bit, anyway. That can and does happen with free agents a lot, and there are some teams that are a whole lot worse. I am happy he’s on the Wild, and after this next year, I’d like him back– perhaps at a more reasonable salary.
Alright, that should be enough beating of the dead horse.
Thats enough Mike.
Wait, read it now, we can settle the bet. He just said that both he and Havlat are signing with LA tomorrow. If that happens, I will eat sunshine’s shorts.
My sources tell me: (Actually I have no sources but I did look at a couple of other web sites)
- Sedin sisters back to van.
- Camalierri to Toronto.
- Zsa Zsa to LA.
- Rangers will grab either Hossa or Havlat
- saku coming here + whoever NYR doesn’t bury in cash
Having some money left for RFA’s could lead to other moves later in the summer, considering the flat cap and bad economy (and probably bad math on my part).
I will eat sunshine’s shorts.
Hey now, family blog. Keep it clean.
The Gaborik post on Twitter is gone now. Interesting…
Oh man, fake Tweeting is just getting me more jacked for tomorrow. I love it.
Isn’t it fabulous?!
What! Bart Simson said it for years! No bleeping or fine from the FCC!
Bart’s an exception to the rule.
Totally fake. Its not Ron — its Ronnie.
does anyone know if LA could fit Gaborik and Hossa under the cap? They’re a couple of wild and crazy guys…
If the Mild don’t come away with a big name tomorrow, as in a finisher ala Hossa, then there really is no hope.
Yeah, and cat is out of the case?! Please tell me you say that. What American movie/person would ever use that expression. Case and bag are nothing alike.
I am not going to say there is no hope but I will be disappointed because it will likely be the 08-09 season all over again but without the Gaborik drama.
Isn’t Gill sort of a younger Sean Hill?
I lol’d. Ugh.. Hill… what a pile that guy was.
I don’t speak French, and all I saw was a message board post, but word is Heatley rejected the trade (says RDS).
Per TSN, Heatley nixes deal w/ the Oil.
I think I can hear the residents of Edmonton crying from here.
Plan B - Shep and Cuma for Heatley?
So, budstriker, if you concede that the twitter is fake, please take a picture of yourself eating a pair of your own shorts and post it on this blog.
Looking forward to seeing it.
Word is Fedotenko’s hitting the open market, while a few teams are going to offer Scuderi over $3 million annually.
Oh and Fedotenko wants three years.
KiPA:
What was Fedotenko’s cap/salary hit this year?
One year, $2.25M.
Ugh — Fedotenko = Mittens. I would rather have Scuderi.
Eh, Fedotenko > Mittens.
To be honest, I would rather have Scuderi but one of the $3+ million defensemen needs to go, preferably Zids.
We can’t afford to pay 5 defensemen $3+ million.
Then Mittens needs to go so we can slot in Fedotenko.
Well, what’s Mittens’ ceiling? He exploded out of the gate last year but ended up with what, nine goals in his last 75 games or something along those lines? Fedotenko’s capable of more offense, so it’s a question of what is Mittens’ role. Is he a top six player, which Fedotenko could be (as long as it’s five or six), or is Mittens more suited to a defensive role?
I think Mittens is a low Top 6 player but for the Wild, he was on the top line. He is a great 2-way player who is also a top PKer. He started hot but slowed down the second half of the season.
Fedotenko could be on the top line and probably get as many goals and points as Mittens playing 17+ minutes a night.
He started hot but slowed down the second half of the season.
Fedotenko was the reverse. Looked a little lost in the early going, then lost time to a hand injury, then came on strong in the second half of the year. And was pretty good from the second round of the playoffs and on.
Ugh. Heatley. Please let the Sens just be stuck with him.
Ugh. Heatley. Please let the Sens just be stuck with him.
How would it feel to be those three Oilers right now?
Puck Daddy blog has it that the $4 million bonus owed to Heatley can be paid by a new team if the trade is done before midnught July 1 not June 30. NYR is getting the buzz but this door is still open.
I thought for sure that the Rangers would take the prospects they received in the Gomez deal and parlay it into landing Heatley.
Well, Penner can’t be surprised he was on the block.
Penner can’t be surprised he was on the block.
It’s one thing to be rumored to be on the block, it’s another to actually be traded but the guy on the other side said no.
And what about the other two?
Well I guess there have been many a fake twitters going on today! One of them said that the sedins signed with the nucks. We’ll see what happens tomorrow. Gonna be worthless at work.
Hopefully we pull some good names off the FA list!
Meh, screw them.
So, now I’m seeing a ton of tweets saying he hasn’t said no and wants to sleep on it.
WHO SLEEPS with that kind of decision? Jesus. Throw that one back in the water, Grease.
Ah, Twitter. How many of those are legit do you think, Ms. C?
Just for the record, I never asked budstriker to eat a pair of shorts if that Twitter account was fake.
I wonder if the Oilers wait for Heatley’s response throughout the day or have a deadline of 11 am EST so they will participate in FA and go after one of the big names.
Would Johnsson and either Shepherd or Cuma get us in the door on the Heatley discussions?
What’s the rap on Marc-Andre Bergeron? I thought he did alright and wasn’t nearly the defensive matador that Zidlicky was. Is it really not worth bring all 3 of him, Skoula, and Foster back? MAB would be a cost savings over MZ, wouldn’t he be? Johnsson-Schultz, Burns-Scuderi (or comparable FA), MAB-Skoula with Scott/Foster(maybe) as the #7? Or do folks seem to think Fletch figures D spots 4 on down should be open for a total upgrade or fresh look?
I’d love Koivu & Cammalleri + some smart moves on D (Beauchemin & Scuderi). Looking over the rest of the FA list, I see why Fletch keeps talking up trades.
They’re all legit, hockey reporters mostly. Not players or whatever. Those are the ones that get faked.
Though it was sure interesting watching Sullivan’s tweets today basically reacting to what his GM was saying on the radio about him. Probably saw the Puck Daddy article about it, but I got the tweet in real time and was like, “Wow what?” and then kinda pieced it together. Crazy times, kids.
They’re all legit
Are they? The only reason I trust Russo’s is because he wrote on here that he said he joined. Did you see those others do the same?
(Just asking, don’t read any smart ass-ness in this.)
Fletch will trade for guys instead of getting into bidding wars of UFA’s or wait for salary cap casualties, he’s a smart guy…get off his back, let him do his work.
I don’t know where you get your information, but Vancouver has NO interest in Gaborik. They never did. In fact, there are no records of Gabby buying anything in Vancouver. This is, of course, all in the Sun. But, that would take research on your part, Russo, and then you wouldn’t have all that hedonistic fun you have all day long.
This is, of course, all in the Sun
And since when did the Sun make all of Vancouver’s decisions?
Lala you do realize that a Vancouver newspaper was the one who started this whole Gaby to Vancouver thing right?
http://communities.canada.com/theprovince/blogs/whitetowel/archive/2009/06/23/marian-gaborik-has-bought-a-house-in-vancouver.aspx
KIPA do you ever sleep?
I do, aj, but I’m a night owl so I tend to stay up late.
waiting for 11 am to roll around, going to be a long sleepless night wondering what if
Chris in CA: No kidding. I woke up early because I can’t sleep, so looking forward am I to getting rid of Skoula once and for all. CF will hopefully not disappoint Wild fans and re-sign this bum.
Katie: Thanks for the support.
Intobilvion: Skoula doesn’t have enough common sense to cause the current economic crisis. Some things (Iranian election, Jacko’s death, the ‘Yotes losing $300M since moving to Arizona) you just can’t blame on Martin. But, glad you enjoyed it.
Less than 7 hours ’til Skoula is out the door…hopefully for good…
I hated Skoula just as much as everyone in the past, but I have to say his play improved last year by an insane amount. Not sure I still want him on the Wild, but if he would sign cheap and eat up minutes and play like 2008-09 Skoula not 2007 and previous years I say sign.
Sorry, aj. Wild cannot take that chance again. Skoula is an expressway to his own net. Yes, he did play better last year…because statistically, he couldn’t play any worse and still be called a professional.
Buh-Bye, Martin.
I dont understand why these teams dont stick together and offer these players that have a history of being hurt all the time, a performance based salary? It is rediculous that someone like Maryanne expects 6 mill a year, when he has shown he is only good for half a year of playing, if that. No wonder I cant afford to go to a game.
Are the Wild looking for the big stud that is going to keep the front of our net cleared out? I remember last year wanting someone to run out on the ice and clear the front of our net. I am sick of watching the opponents pitch a tent in front of Backstrom. I also noticed the other teams didnt put up with us in front of their net. Notice where Nolan was scoring from? He probably hangs there for a few reasons, one of them being he didnt want his head taken off in front of the opponents net!
Skoula not playing constant defense like under JL makes him an enormous liability. Without JL’s tight reins, he becomes a high-risk/high-reward player. The only reason he was any good in Colorado is because Roy was the goalie.
I could very well see Skoula end up in NJ so he can stay with JL.
MrBlueSky - because teams are stupid and they would overpay for a bag of pucks if they thought another team might sign that same bag of pucks.
I’d like to see a change to the CBA that allows more latitude for incentive-based contracts for players with a history of injuries. For example, if a player misses more than 30 games in two of the past three years due to injury, they can get a veteran’s contract.
cost the Wild the NW Division title in 2007
i’ve asked before how this is true and never received an answer. so, i’m asking again.
CF will hopefully not disappoint Wild fans and re-sign this bum.
damn, thought WRT had gotten past appointing himself the voice of all wild fans.
Should I bother trying to keep up with the blog today? Something tells me that there will be a few more posts and posters than usual.
Goody - I think I am going to stick to watching Russo’s twitter and come here for details if we make any moves.
I think we are going to see a couple of gems from MKiA’s personality bag today.
@Mr.BlueSky7:11.. great suggestion re salaries, May I add another: base salaries plus bonus IF actually playing!
That would really be performance based wages, like in the real world… 
Sorry guys, scratch the top center off the FA market: Erik Christensen re-signed with the Ducks.
Gun, I think I’ll do the same.
It would be nice if the comments here were divided into pages so that when refreshing, one would not need to re-load all 14,000 comments, but maybe just the last 50 or something.
I signed up for twitter this morning and set it to send Russo’s comments to my cell. Yay for text message rates!
I’ll be happy that our GM is actually attempting to improve this team and not so tight that he can’t make ANY moves because he is like a deer in the headlights. (DR). Let’s see if he can actually get some of the FA’s here unlike DR. If Gaborik goes to Vancouver, he becomes public enemy #1.
It’s that time again!! Back to beg the hockey gods for Hossa. I don’t care if he laid an egg in the cup finals, it will only make him more hungry the next time he gets there.
He’s the best replacement for Gabby and we have the cash to get him. Fletcher spent some of his last FA efforts in Pitt trying to sign him and hopefully he takes another shot at him.
As much as I like the Cammalleri’s and Havlats of the world, I want a player on this team that is actually a 1st line player. A guy who’d be on the first line of any team in the league. We need a finisher and this is the guy he should be going after hard.
HOSSA HOSSA HOSSA!!!
Make my christmas come early Fletch!!!
I know it’s not 11:00 yet, and you all can’t see me, but I’m doing my “Goodbye, whiny crybaby Slovak dance”… I should stop, it’s scaring the dogs.
Ooooppps, it just started sprinkling. I think I got my “Goodbye, whiny crybaby Slovak dance” mixed up with a rain dance I saw a pow wow once.
the defensive matador that Zidlicky was
great line.
Okay, I’ve got my hot pockets and my Mountain Dew all ready. I’ve got some gauze pads, medical tape and a bottle of Aleve for my left index finger so I can keep hitting the ol’ F5 button despite the pain (hey, I’m a hockey fan.)
I am ready to be underwhelmed!
What do I do with my authentic Gaborik sweater? Do I burn it? I’ve learned an important lesson here. Never again will I buy a sweater with a player’s name and number on it.
Dave - not only that but then you don’t have to go around as one of those guys that gets a name/number on the back of a sweater.
I keed.
Jack ass nice post. DR did a good job but this was his bigest problem. The Deer in the Headlihts
Michael up North with Paveich has a good post. I do think Skoula could stay for the right money. I dont dislike him nearly as much as others on here. The thing with him is he can be average but he can also be great
You cant ship Tyler Cuma to the AHL unless he is don rehab. This guy is going to be great and he will take 1 spot. This is why Johnny is so valuable right now
What about Gio? Anyone think there’s a chance we’ll be in those talks?
Agreed, NiNY, although I think the people who get their own name and some number (usually 69, for some reason) on the back of the sweater are in a lower class.
I wonder if Gio could be had for a reduced rate. He does like to shoot the puck a whole bunch, which would be refreshing.
Dave I feel your pain, except my Gaborik sweater was a Christmas gift from my wife 3 years ago.
Would it be insulting to take it to a professional to get the name and number removed?
you don’t have to go around as one of those guys that gets a name/number on the back of a sweater.
Hey my wife gave me a Koivu Tshirt
Schmidty: Like I say. I dont know about Hossa. His numbers are nice but you kind of need to know some insight into the guy. Maybe Hossa is the guy. Dont think Hossa Hossa Hossa and just assume Havlat is garbage when he outperformed Hossa last year. How about playoff performance ?????
If you lose Gaby, Cammaleri would be a guy to fit in his shoes
Like I say, Saku needs to go to a place where he fits better on the team. This is Mikkos team and he is a leader type of guy. I dont like the fit
The only people who should have their own name and an inane number on their jerseys are the tuba players for the hockey pep band at the U, and those aren’t their real names usually, they are nicknames. And the only reason the Mr and I got a Walz jersey was because we figured he’d be retiring at the end of the season, two months later he retired. So we were partially right.
God I love Puck Daddy!
2. Marian Gaborik
Current Team: Minnesota Wild
Current Cap Hit: $6.333 million
The Good: Simply put, one of the most dynamic offensive players in hockey, and one that’s been quietly begging to leave the shackles of a defensive system. Gaborik has scored 123 goals in his last 207 games.
The Bad: Those 207 games are over the course of four seasons, because he’s more fragile than an eggshell with low self-esteem.
The Ugly: Might have the crazy idea that he’s worth a long-term contract despite being in and out of action more than Matt Damon.
I could take it in and get the name and number removed, Gunslinger, but #1 it would cost me money and #2 it wouldn’t be nearly as emotionally satisfying as, say, taking a dump and wiping with it would be.
although I think the people who get their own name and some number (usually 69, for some reason) on the back of the sweater are in a lower class.
agreed in general
LMAO @ bold
lowest class = people that wear a Red Wings (for example) jersey to, for instance, a Gophers’ game ??
What, is that to, like, prove you’re a hockey fan? They’re like wannabe hockeyvangelists or something - spreading the good word of the power of the Winged Wheel everywhere they go…thanks but, ah, I don’t think Jimmy D cares, bro.
ps: Gun, Wafer, you know I love ya!
I just gave my Mitchell jersey to my wife. She could care less that he is in Vancouver and has become a Sally.
T minus 2:24:31
have we discussed yet that the perfect antidote for Phaneuf’s over-achieving blues last year might be the acquisition of another stud blueliner in Calgary?
Great move by Sutter…or was it Sutter?
Hey Koivu is gonna be on this team forever and ever and ever so stfu
:p
BTW: can someone (Russo? Not that you don’t have anything else to do today, I know…) Neil Smith on HNiC radio last night said that, under the old CBA, if a player agreed to waive his NTC, he waived it for the duration of his contract - however long it may be.
He said he wasn’t sure if that was a piece of the new CBA or not.
I bought my authentics numberless just for this reason. Until the wild sign a player to a 10 to 15 year contract, there will always be a better than 50% chance they will be with another team in 3 to 5 years
sorry…that should have said “can someone confirm…
PS: what kind of a jerkwad demands a trade and then waffles on whether or not to waive his NTC?
Yes, Kevin, @CraigCustance is really Craig Custance. @Wyshynski is really Greg Wyshynski. @DarrenDreger is really Darren Dreger.
Heck, @martinhavlat is really Martin Havlat and @walsha is really Allen Walsh! But they’re both pretty quiet today.
BACKES! CLOWE!
*clap clap clap clap clap*
BACKES! CLOWE!
*clap clap clap clap clap*
Gunslinger says:
July 1st, 2009 at 8:26 am
Dave I feel your pain, except my Gaborik sweater was a Christmas gift from my wife 3 years ago.
Would it be insulting to take it to a professional to get the name and number removed?
I’d hang onto it for just a little bit. If you’re lucky, another player will start wearing #10. Then it’ll be cheaper as you won’t need to change the number.
Either that or go for the humor aspect, do a really crappy home made change to a player you like that is likely to stay for a while or at least one that embodies the qualities that Gaborik seems to lack. Like Brunette! Plays through injuries, puts the team ahead of his own ego, etc. Besides, 10 can be changed to 15 by cutting off the upper half of the right and lower half of the left sides of the 0 and then tacking one of the removed pieces over the middle. As far as the name goes, you’ll have to come up with something else. I’d suggest an old bed sheet, a ‘magnum 44′ marker and some safety pins.
Salutations Russoville! Here’s to hoping today is an interesting day.
Move Harding to STL!!
Nick, I heard he gave them a list of 9 teams he’d waive the no-trade to go to and EDM wasn’t on it. Not sure why they even bothered to make that deal, unless they just hoped the bird in the hand would be enticement enough to add EDM to his list.
Seems to me, if you really want out, it should really be more like a list of 9 teams that you WON’T go to (i.e. the situation would be no better than where he is in Otterwah).
Good morning, ATX…..
And @100wattjones is…
Nick in New York says:
July 1st, 2009 at 8:33 am
lowest class = people that wear a Red Wings (for example) jersey to, for instance, a Gophers’ game ??
What if the Wings jersey sports the name of a Wings draft pick that currently plays for the Gophers?
What about the other way round? Say someone who wears a “Kessel” Gophers jersey to a Bruins game? Or, someone who wears a “C-buck” Aeros jersey to a Wild game?
Ha. Goody that would be all fine and dandy until I’m that guy on the blogs with the words “Epic Fail” next my picture.
So, in those ‘Gaborik’ tweets…is MH Marian Hossa or Martin Havlat???
NiNY…some of us have lived their entire lives as ‘that guy’…
Regarding putting your name on a jersey, the lowest of the low is doing that and making yourself the Captain to boot. Saw it at the X once on a guy in a North Stars jersey… People were pointing and laughing.
ms.c: I read (Bobby Mac) that he hasn’t officially not agreed to waive it to go to EDM. Obviously that doesn’t mean he won’t, but it at least gives the impression that he would consider it.
I just think a guy that pulls a gun on his GM, demands all the money in the drawer, and then tells him he only wants the bills whose serial numbers end in 4,6 or 9 is a total loser.
kj, could be Mr Hat.
Gun, I’d classify it as an “Epic Win” myself.
2:06 to go by my clock!
Ok, well I refuse to feel like a leeser person, a retard, dork, whatever cuz I have my name & the year I was born on Wild jersey (my much wanted Christmas present from the mr.) and the Mr. also has a custom jersey (he got 01 for his number). So I have no qualms with them.
Goody: that would be fine, but, is that guy going to explain the connection to everyone he passes - most of whom are either not naturally inclined to the esoteric or have drunk themselves into a state of disinclination to same?
kj: I know, but you’re also a woodwind guy…
Dang it! Wouldn’t you know it, the clock changes to 8:55 a millisecond after I click “Submit Comment”!
Er… before. If it had changed after, the post time and 2:06 would be in agreement.
kgoph: nor should you. I was truly kidding.
lg…my name is not Tinordi…
Sorry, kgopher. No disrespect intended to you personally.
And @100wattjones is…
a power company?
Oh no doubt, Nick. We are in total agreement that Heater is a doosh.
Back to beg the hockey gods for Hossa. I don’t care if he laid an egg in the cup finals, it will only make him more hungry the next time he gets there.
Yeah, ’cause he should’ve been hungry already in 2009 after losing in 2008, and we saw how that turned out.
At his rate, he won’t even get any assists next time he reaches the Final.
And Ms. C: Okie dokie on those Twitter things, though I don’t know what the @ means.
Regarding the captains “C” on a custom jersey…
the thing is that it doesn’t cost any extra to put the “C” or “A” on there once you’ve already decided on the name and number. So a lot of people figure “what the hell, why not?” That of course being well before they realize the general dooshbaggery associated with that decision.
lol @ nunya
Thanks for posting those other Hockey Twits Ms.C. Gives me one more outlet to get news from!
Oh I know and wasn’t taking it personally. I was seeing it as a difference of opinion and everyone has a right to there own. Just stating that I have one and I love it. I am an alternate captain because the Mr. put the C on his. I also put my 1st initial since the Mr. already has just the last name (had to look at Vancouver picks until I saw a back of a Sedin jersey to make sure we got it right, ugh, that was torture but worth it as I love my jersey)
Jersey fail is one of those things like judging “real fans” IMO. You can get so snotty about it that eventually nobody’s having any fun with it. Spell the names right and don’t use 69 as your number because that’s straight dooshbaggery. Period.
kgoph: I just get a kick out of how everyone has their own style - and is willing to defend it.
That, and there are still two more freakin’ hours to go!!!
You can get so snotty about it that eventually nobody’s having any fun with it. Spell the names right and don’t use 69 as your number because that’s straight dooshbaggery. Period.
LMFAO.
So endeth the lesson.
don’t use 69 as your number
What if you’re getting a Mel Angelstad jersey?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mel_Angelstad
(Yes, I seriously Googled “NHL players who wore number 69.”)
Kevin in Penna, you’re my hero!
Kevin, that’s how Twitter names are identified in a tweet. Like if you ever decided to stop being afraid of Twitter and I wanted to say something to you, I’d say, @kipa Your boy Malkin needs to tell his girl to lay off the collagen lip injections.
And you’d respond @msconduct10 She has lips?
bg: 8:10 & 8:11 am, thanks for giggle!
Like if you ever decided to stop being afraid of Twitter and I wanted to say something to you, I’d say, @kipa Your boy Malkin needs to tell his girl to lay off the collagen lip injections.
And you’d respond @msconduct10 She has lips?
OMG…LOLOL
Nice “Untouchables” pull, NiNY.
As long as the person didn’t put 69, its all good. Otherwise you are just looking down on people who are at least hockey fans. Stupid or Smart, I think we need all the fans we can get.
And you’d respond @msconduct10 She has lips?
Hahahaha! You really are a special breed, you know? And that’s very much a compliment.
I’ll never Twitter. I feel humanity’s already doing enough to destroy itself before that thing was invented.
don’t use 69 as your number because that’s straight dooshbaggery
This is a rule in all things. If you play ANY sports game on Xbox Live and someone has the #69 on their jersey (or in their XBL Gamertag) you can bet your bottom dollar that the dude is a straight up “I don’t pass” selfish dickwad.
USA Today’s Kevin Allen’s Twitter: Based on interviews this a.m., NHL consensus is NYR were winners in Gomez deal. Higgins, McDonagh and $5 mil cap space is high value.
Yeah, you think, genius?
Meh, lighten up, babe. Life’s too short.
Though I would actually laugh at a
THATSWHATSHESAID
69
I dunno. Something to do with my breed…
Dave: to be honest, I was hearing “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” when I typed that.
This is why I don’t follow @kausatoday
ms.c is ON FIRE!
I feel humanity’s already doing enough to destroy itself before that thing was invented.
no doubt
Eh, Ms. C, I’ve already made concessions by even looking at Twitter pages. And Allen broke the Higgins-Gomez trade which is why I’m keeping an eye on his page.
waitasecond…KiPA I know for a fact that you have a smartphone…that isn’t humanity robbing enough? There’s a fine line between reading your email in a bathroom stall and tweeting in said stall, my friend.
(BTW how great is this anxious-like-kids-gathered-at-the-top-of-the-steps-at-5am-on-Christmas-morning rush?)
Though I have thought of Twittering just to make it an even more of a joke.
Here are some sample feeds, or whatever they call it, of what I might do:
“Going to sleep now.”
“Just woke up.”
“Just ate.”
“Just masturbated.”
“Back to bed now.”
and…*nods at Hockeydad*…how great is it that we don’t have Dougie “Quaalude” Risebrough circling above us, just out of range of the ack-ack…?
I know for a fact that you have a smartphone…that isn’t humanity robbing enough? There’s a fine line between reading your email in a bathroom stall and tweeting in said stall, my friend.
A man’s got to draw that line somewhere. And what I do in a bathroom stall is my own business, thank you very much.
Plus my phone has actually been relied upon eight or nine times for work purposes.
LMAO @ KiPA
I’m going to stick up for the people wearing customized jerseys. If they are enjoying the sweater who are we to judge?
It is like making fun of grown adults who bring mitts to the baseball game. If that is how they want to enjoy the game who are we to tell them otherwise?
Here’s is my thought on Twitter: If you are a person that people rely on for information (i.e. journalist, blogger, etc) or a person with a mass following that loves to watch you make a fool of yourself (i.e. celebrity, sports player, $alcer), then Twitter is for you.
If you are an average Joe, just sign up to follow these people.
I cannot pretend that I am so important that people need to know when I am “On a boat” or complaining that my life sucks because my mom won’t let me drive rher Lexus. Damn emo kids…
/rant
Deadline at work… opening of FA… Deadline at work… opening of FA… I just got myself an extension. Sweet!
AiH: so wait, those people use their sweater with the name and number on back to catch pucks that fly out of the playing area and into the stands?
Where do I find Mike Russo on Twitter?
Here’s is my thought on Twitter: If you are a person that people rely on for information (i.e. journalist, blogger, etc) or a person with a mass following that loves to watch you make a fool of yourself (i.e. celebrity, sports player, $alcer), then Twitter is for you.
If you are an average Joe, just sign up to follow these people.
I cannot pretend that I am so important that people need to know when I am “On a boat” or complaining that my life sucks because my mom won’t let me drive rher Lexus
You get a gold star, sir. (Unless you’re a madame, then you get a gold star, madame.)
“Just masturbated.”
I almost spit Dr. Pepper out my nose there. POTD nominee
Gun: can I assume that you’re not following me, then?
I’m going to stick up for the people wearing customized jerseys. If they are enjoying the sweater who are we to judge?
With the exception of the aforementioned “69 Rule” I hope… Those people deserve to be slapped in the face with a dead fish.
Cnelsonames: Russo’s Twitter is “Russostrib”.
I am a sir
Although my friends would argue the fact that since being married I lost two particular qualities that would help prove this statement.
Thank you.
cnelsonames:
Gun: So you’d probably be Twittering the same stuff I do, huh?
I love how none of us is calling a sweater a “jersey”. Real hockey fans know the difference.
NiNY, do you have a link to your Twitter on your site?
Those people deserve to be slapped in the face with a dead fish.
isn’t that the goal of their sweater number?
Nick - I’ll grant you this at least - a man tucking a hockey jersey into his tight jeans deserves to be ridiculed. That is an odd look.
Hey, if a goalie can style a catching glove why can’t a fan? That would be pretty funny to see actually. Fans wearing big catching gloves at hockey games.
a man tucking a hockey jersey into his tight jeans deserves to be ridiculed.
+1
isn’t that the goal of their sweater number?
LOL! I set it up, and you knocked it down.
Russo on KFAN.
Just a reminder:
Russo says:
I’ll also be on KFAN on Wednesday morning at 9:35 a.m.
Goody : thanks, was just going to post…
isn’t that the goal of their sweater number?
Line of the year.
Thanks for the heads up Jake.
Puck daddy is pulling twitter posts from several bloggers/journbalists and posting them in a live chat type deal. Russo is part of this
NiNY:
RE: Neil’s comment about NTC in the previous CBA.
My understanding from the Lubomir Visnosky trade last year was that if a player was traded during an open window period of his NTC, the new team does not have to honor the NTC going forward. However, the Oilers chose to honor it.
However, if there is no open window and a player waives his NTC, it still stays in place.
PD tweet: “ESPNEWS just said Heatley one of top free agents”
and yet the NHL NEEDS to get back on the WWLIS, eh?
sunshine: okay…interesting. Thanks for digging that up!
Although Russo likes him, I’m not sold on Havlat. He’s just as injury prone, perhaps even more so, than Gabby and his production when healthy is lower than Gabby’s. Unless we’re getting a solid deal, he’s not worth it. We’ll all be on here two months into the season bitching about his injuries and how he is a baby and won’t play even though he’s hurt.
Ha! I can’t even catch pucks with my catcher when they’re shot right at it. Sure wouldn’t sit with that stinky thing through a hockey game.
Do baseball gloves get as smelly as goalie ones?
Hope they send Gabby a decent offer today
I think Russo is looking at someone like Havlat that can be dynamic on offense but can probably be had at a more reasonable price. Adding a guy like Havlat would help on offense while also leaving some room for maybe another splash.
Do baseball gloves get as smelly as goalie ones?
i’ve played a ton of baseball in my short life and the answer to this is no.
CiCA: brother, I love your tenacity and never-say-die attitude!
I Heart Radio is a great app.
Russo on my iPhone!
I’m with you Chris.
4rest- You might want to take a rest. On my list I had Havlat number 1 as well you check past thread. I am sick of all of the gaby talk as well as Hossa. I dont know about Hossa but I am sure Fletcher knows him. Dont be disspointed if we get Havlat I know I wont
kj - I just downloaded that. It comes in clearer than my actual radio. I love it!
Wyshynski: Trying to find someone who loves this Gomez deal from a MTL perspective is pretty daunting.
*still recovering from the massively-exploded head*
Agreed Jake: I can’t get over the fact that he is, in my opinion, a poor man’s Gabby. I know we were allegedly trying to make a playoff push at the end of last year, but I’m a little pissed that we allowed Gabby to play and, thus, increase his value in free agency. He was being such a baby I would have told him to sit out. He admitted he wasn’t 100%, and he previously said he wouldn’t play if he wasn’t 100%, so it’s clear to me that the only reason he played is for himself, not the team.
—so looking forward am I to getting rid of Skoula once and for all—
WRT once again goes MKIA on us.
Here’s an interesting possibility. Frankenskoula signs with an immediate contender. The Wild sign Scuderi to twice+ the money. In spite of a stellar SC playoffs, he returns to earth per Kevin in PA’s assessment. WRT doesn’t have to attend Hooked on Phonics again to learn how to pronounce the name of his next Wild Devil Dujour.
Well Mister, because you said it, I better take a rest. I will withhold my opinion on Havlat now that you have spoken. I could never match you prowess when it comes to finding excellent free agents for the Wild. I’m sure Havlat would bring out all those casual fans hoping to see Modano…
I wish they could pay by number of games played. $100k per game could make Gabs an 8.2 million dollar player.
From what I caught of Russo on KFAN was that Gaby so hated Smug and TooL that even after the management changes were made he could not see himself here - can someone confirm I got the gist of it? Thanks!
I wouldn’t mind Havlat but I’d rather have RoboGabby or both.. We don’t really need new defenseman, we’ll just try to outscore everyone and our corps right now is fine.
I was skeptical on Havlat for a long time, mainly due to injury concerns. However, I split my time between Minny and Illinois and caught upwards of 50 Hawks’ tilts last year and Havlat was pretty impressive. I do have concerns about him after the monster hit he took in the playoffs from Kronwall. The way his eyes were rolled up into his forehead while he was lying on the ice, like Mike Tyson looking up at Lennox Lewis was scary. He was out before he hit the ice.
And that the Hawks tried to trot him out into the next game should have been cause for a league inquiry. He was hurt, and hurt badly. I am not aware of what his current status is concerning that.
If he is ok (I hope) he might be a great siging in my book. Aside from prior injuries, this player has some mad skills in my opinion. If Gabby goes (please, I am sick of this prima donna) Havlat would be an excellent pickup….
he returns to earth per Kevin in PA’s assessment
Hmm. I don’t think he’ll return to earth. Apologies if I said that or implied it. I think he’ll still be a steady D-man but overpaid if he’s making $3M or more.
Thanks for the iheart radio tip, forget I have it on my phone although Russo wasn’t on any more when I got in. Can some one fill us in please? Thanks in advance
On the subjecth that CF isn’t being held to the same standard as Smug.
Please note that it took about 7.5 years before Smug started feeling the heat. And it took some major gaffes. I would say that is pretty accomodating.
Also, CF strikes me as the kind of fellow who probably won’t promote himself as smarter than everybody else. Even though as a Harvard grad, he probably is.
The truth is that CF is being held to a higher standard and accountability than Smug. The owner and the fans expect results NOW! He won’t get 9 years to put some success on the board. And he has less to work with than Smug ever did in terms of draft picks and cap dollars.
My bet is he succeeds, but its far too early to begin speculating.
You know guys it is widely believed that guys like Gaby and Hossa dont have the heart neccessary to do the fight neccessary for playoff hockey. If you have 12 million to spend and you can get Havlat who is a playoff performer and has been healthy all last year, and did outperform Hossa. I likey
That’s what I heard, too, FFS.
FFS the main jist of it that was that we never made an actual offer to Gabby (even if he was going to FA, offer should have been made) and disliked the old regime.
Frozenweiner: So you’re aware that the coaching staff had him ride the pine at one point last year, and relegated him to the third (and I think fourth) line for pretty much the last third of the season? I know Chicago has a talented group up front, but I can’t imagine Havlat is that amazing if he was demoted. And, it was his first full season, which happened to be his contract year. To be clear, I’m not saying he isn’t a good player, I just hope the Wild don’t go overboard on his deal, should he sign.
Basically, 95-100% Gabby will not re-sign.
Havlat and Cammalleri are options, but Russo thinks Cam will have inflated offers so that opens us up for Havlat.
The Sedins wouldnt give us enough cap to get the defenders we need, so unless Chuck wants to do some serious shifting and trading this summer, don’t look for us to sign them.
Scuderi is a good option at D because Chuck knows the kind of player he is and if he wants him, there is obviously something there he likes.
Did I miss any major points? A lot of the convo was about Gabby.
The top free agents today will probably get big deals, but I could see a lot of second line players getting less money than in years past. Teams are feeling the salary crunch.
Gunslnger, I was confused at one point when Russo said something about how we wouldn’t be able to go out and get a center if we signed the Sedins. But….Henrik is a center. Was he saying we need two?
Thanks guys - if there was no way Gaby was going to consider the offer than I don’t think CF was obligated to make one beased on what we know.
same defense corps, bring up Aeros D for 6th D and spend to the Cap. That’s what I would love to see.
You want 75 points for 1 year. Mister Know it all says get Modano to Minnesota. Dallas has this player going through the motions currently. Before we get hot and heavey on any veteran free agents lets first wait and see what the Wild do in free agency. They may get capped out.
Sweet, I just got re-tweeted by wyshynski. I feel famous!
Good recap Gunslinger. I do wish Russo would have speculated a bit more about whether or not we’ll land Saku.
DarrenDregerSedins have agreed to 5 year extension and will stay with the Canucks.
Sedins just re-signed with Canucks. 5 years.
MKiA, Modano is playing out the last year of his contract in Dallas and there is no doubt about that. We can go after him next year UFA if you like and I would be all for it.
Nucks are definately out of the Gabby race now.
KiPA: I can’t say I followed the finals intently, but when I did, Maguire, et al were making him out to be far more than your assessment; far more than just a steady dman. More like “shutdown” for the job he was doing on a few of the Wings notable forwards.
In my mind, steady dman would be a return to earth from the lofty status he currently seems to occupy where rumors suggest $4M.
Good! I didn’t want Gabby going to the Nucks or us getting the Sedins
CiCA….I agree!
So, Sedins to Canucks, how does that affect Gaborik to Canucks rumors? Do they still have cap room?
Good! I didn’t want Gabby going to the Nucks or us getting the Sedins
+1 to that!
Dang I’m slow. Either that or some of you are psychics.
Maybe we get back into Heater and then after he signs Gabby signs and we make a cup run..thats my dream
Russo says LA, MON, or NYR
Sedins — 5 years at $6.1 million per for each according to TSN
KiPA: I can’t say I followed the finals intently, but when I did, Maguire, et al were making him out to be far more than your assessment; far more than just a steady dman. More like “shutdown” for the job he was doing on a few of the Wings notable forwards.
I missed that, seems they only ever talked about how great Darren Helm was.
Regardless, I think he’ll continue to play at the level he did. I just think his profile grew by leaps and bounds based on a few seconds when he twice stopped a potential game-tying goal from going in. I’d been appreciating that kind of play from him all season. No one talked about him then though.
for4rest;
Yes, you are correct. Like all players Havlat had a couple of low points in his season, and the coaches recognized that and dealt with him in the manner they thought was best for him and the club at that time. And if the Wild don’t overpay for him (as many GM’s are wont to do on this day) I think he would be an excellent signing. I did witness him dominate a few games for his club last year.
The Hawks are in a tight spot, they need to protect money to hang on to their youngsters over the next couple of years, and Havlat will be an unwilling victim of that. So, why not the Wild??
Goody, I assume this puts the Nucks out of the Gaby race. Unless he takes a Slovak Shower discount maybe?
Vancouver has about $10 million left to add 8 players to their roster.
I see your pair of Sedins and raise you our pair of Koivus. Fins v. Swedes! God love it!
Good! I didn’t want Gabby going to the Nucks or us getting the Sedins
Me three
Gabby and Heatley would be a beautiful thing. Power and finesse. 80 goals and 175 points out of 2 guys. Legitamite Western Conference contenders.
Gabby and Heatley would be a beautiful thing.
…until you realize you have no cap money left to fill the rest of your roster.
Does the Heatley declining to waive his NTC for Edmonton mean OTT’s asking price just went down?
30 Minutes!
Our defense will be in the middle at least without getting any free agents, its good enough to get by. Spend all the money on Offense!
true jonsey.. but they can make it work. i guess that would make a move to trade backstrom all the more likely though.
My question regarding the Sedins’ signing is, do they each get a contract or does just one cover both of them?
—I missed that, seems they only ever talked about how great Darren Helm was.—
Never noticed that, but then I have to admit I leaned more towards the Wings.
Confirmation bias. It’s an interesting aspect of human nature, eh?
Interested in a pool for when Saku signs? Closest without going over?
Gunslinger: 12:10 pm
Never noticed that
How could you not have? Doc Emrick even introduced Darren Pang once as Darren Helm when Pang was about to interview one of the Penguins.
Looks like a house in Vancouver might be up for sale.
Thursday - 3pm.
Wed 8pm
Gunslinger, I am in. 5 Russo Bucks on 1:40pm CST.
good one woodcock..maybe one of the sedin boys, or jordan schroeder can make an offer on it
CiCA… If you got John Scott penciled in as your 5th defense and no 6th or 7th guy in the fold… you need to do a little work getting some capable defenders.
I’d buy the house and then burn it down
alright! its on!
Get ‘em in folks! i am shutting down the pool at 10:59.
Winner gets a lifetime membership to follow KiPA’s new Twitter page
Sorry Id rather have ridiculous offense and Scott and a houston kid in my D anyday
NiNY 7/1 1545 ET
Rumor is Gabby just bought a house in LA. CiCA, maybe you’ll be neighbors.
Smug trades us all the good players on Florida for nothing in return
Winner gets a lifetime membership to follow KiPA’s new Twitter page
I’m taking away your gold star.
Not quite, Id much rather see him go to SJ where I can watch him play
FW99 7/1 1748CST
trying to mess with me with the military time?
Mister Biskers, why dont you buy Gabys house in Vancouver and torture the Vancouver fans for us
and the eastern time zone?
Gunslinger: Saku isn’t signing here, in my opinion. It’s Mikko ’s team.
-Mister Biskers, why dont you buy Gabys house in Vancouver and torture the Vancouver fans for us-
I’d love to, I’m all about torture!!!
They’ll make Saku an offer but he’ll mull it over and talk with little brother until Friday 10:00am!
Gaby to the Rags? Slats is a Smug crony who brings similar culture. I suspect he would start buttin’ heads with him in pretty short order.
Gaby to the Habs? Again, same culture as Smug and JL brought to MN.
LA. I think the big picture is that Salcer wants him in a much bigger media market to leverage his talent in other ways. But hockey on the west coast has its drawbacks from an exposure standpoint.
And I am not altogether sold on the money it takes to sign the top 10 snipers. It’s great for marketing purposes and the regular season, but when it comes down to crunch time in the playoffs, teams often, not always, find a way to shut down the studs.
There are ways for the Wild to be in the mix without spending $7M plus on one sniper.
Nucks still have cap to sign Hossa, Gabby, or Squid….
Saku: 1130am
food
Gun -
jimlove - 7/1 - 12:25 CST
Isn’t Luongo due for an extension? Do they really have tons of money for big name free agents?
Saku signs Sunday at 8:00pm
Ohlund, Sundin, and Pyatt are off the books..they have cash to spend but not a whole lot. Enough to get a top talent.
Okay, Vancouver! Sedins signing also removes a suitor for Cammalleri. I’m a plus/minus guy, so I’d prefer Havlat, but Cammalleri would be a nice compromise. If we somehow managed to walk away from this w/two of the following: Havlat, Gaborik, Heatley, Cammalleri, that would be sweet, plus S. Koivu (that would be awesome). If we did go after Heatley and gave up Shep/Cuma, could we throw in one of our Def contracts as well? If so, who would that be? That would give us some flexibility to get the combo plus koivu and still fill in a plus D (I think).
Wouldn’t work for Shep/Cuma…For some crazy reason Ottawa is in win now mode when that’s next to impossible for them. They only want top guys. I’m starting to think Bryan Murray is a major tool, his asking prices are obviously too high. Id love to see Heater stay and BM have to deal with him.
Sorry if I am late to the party, but TSN reporting the SEDIN TWINS resign in Vancouver - $6.1M year for 5 years
As a die hard wild fan I know whats best for the wild. We need to get rid of gabby because teams like MTL, LA, (rumor has it he just bought a house there) and also maybe OTTAWA are trying to pursue him now that heatley is most likely gone to EDM.
I agree that skoula is a just an ongoing problem for the wild which we could get a solid DMAN if we trade skoula for a stay at home defensemen such as Komisarek. The wild have plent of offensive producing defensemen and I just hope that burns isnt part of the deal.
Also a family reunion with the Koivu Bros, would help spark some of the offense the wild have been in need of for years now.
GO WILD!
[…] Koivu Bros. in Minnesota?; End of the line for Gaborik, and who … […]
Well now that Gaborik is gone out to the Rangers we finally have him of our hands. Lets just hope he does nothing for the Rangers and has another injury plagued season like he did in 08-09 for Minnesota. But now that the Wild signed Havlat that leads less cap room for a Koivu reunion even though there still is a chance for that to happen. Hopefully it does! Havlat is a solid offensive talent tallying around 70 points for the Blackhawks last year, hopefully he can do that for the Wild also.
GO WILD!
