No Cause To Worry About Gustavsson
Earlier today on a certain Toronto radio show, a grim portrait of Jonas Gustavsson’s future was painted, citing the 32 games he has appeared in so far in his career – most of those starts behind a lacklustre team – as evidence that he may never develop into the sort of goaltender the Leafs envisioned when signing him out of the Swedish Elite League.
The crux of the argument was that 32 games should be enough for Gustavsson to have shown some ability to adapt to goaltending coach Francois Allaire’s techniques, and that at 25 years of age it may be too late for him to make the necessary adjustments for NHL success.
However, absent of any relevant comparative analysis, as this argument was, one is inclined to say “back up the truck, buck.”
True, Jonas Gustavsson is 25 years old. What gets lost, however, is the fact that he is a true NHL rookie. Not only is this his first experience playing at hockey’s highest level, it is also his first real experience with North American hockey, period. The game is vastly different in a smaller rink (his tendency to kick out rebounds is evidence of habits one can get away with in larger SEL rinks, where net-crashing is a much less common occurence), and accordingly 32 games will not necessarily be enough to overcome the learning curve.
Francois Allaire, the goaltending guru who turned Patrick Roy into a Hall-of-Fame netminder, and who revamped Jean-Sebastian Giguere’s style to the tune of a Conn Smythe trophy and Stanley Cup, is without a doubt the man in the best position to offer an opinion on the progression, and potential, of Jonas Gustavsson. Here’s what he had to say, following the acquisition of J-S Giguere the other week:
“If we want to really develop Jonas the best way, it will be to train him more and play a little bit less. Jonas this year has to learn everything: new rinks, new team, new league, new country, new food. Everything at the same time. The schedule’s not easy as well, four games in a week many times. There was no break and no time to practise.
[...]
He tries everything we ask him to do. It was a tough situation for him. Everything I ask him to do in practice, in the gym, on video, he has been outstanding.”[Source]
So. The renowned goaltending guru offers a perfectly valid and reasonable opinion on why Gustavsson’s development has had its ups and downs … and is completely ignored by members of the MSM, who continue to push the notion that Gustavsson may not have what it takes to be an NHL starter. Because, you know, 32 games of NHL experience, as a rookie, is apparently more than enough to tell whether or not a goaltender has an NHL future.
It seems to be an odd argument given the factors involved, but okay, even at that point I understand how people could be swayed into buying that analysis. Perhaps Allaire is just talking up one of his guys, not wanting to derail his player’s confidence.
But before we commit to buying into an argument on the sheer principle that it happens to be the opinion of a member of the media, let’s take a look at Giguere’s success under Allaire. Call it comparison for comparison’s sake.
When Giguere first arrived in Anaheim, in 2000, he was 23 years old. Allaire had been with Anaheim for four years, having turned Guy Hebert into a starter of note in the late-90s. Already at that point, Giguere, once a highly-rated prospect, was carrying the “bust” label.
During Giguere’s first year in Anaheim, and under Allaire, he posted good, but not star-quality, numbers as a backup to the then-struggling (and soon to be traded) Hebert. In 34 games, Giguere posted an 11-17-5 record, with a 2.57 GAA (t-24th overall) and .911 SV% (14th overall).
However, it was during his second season (2001-02), as he began to get comfortable within Allaire’s technique, that Giguere’s statistics began to garner attention. At the age of 24, he appeared in 51 games, posting a 20-25-6 record, 2.13 GAA (5th overall) and .920 SV% (t-5th overall). Those numbers are all the more astounding considering the team finished 23rd overall in league standings that season.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
So let’s extrapolate that success to the situation faced by Jonas Gustavsson.
Consider that Giguere had the advantage of growing up in North America, and playing in North American rinks his entire life. Consider also that Giguere had the advantage of several years’ worth of NHL experience.
Gustavsson, on the other hand, must face several adjustments, both on and off the ice, that Giguere did not (as outlined above by Allaire). In 32 games played, Gustavsson has a 9-13-8 record, with a 3.07 GAA, and .898 SV%. Admittedly, those numbers appear underwhelming on the surface; yet, when examined in the context of the way the team in front of him performed for much of the season (especially on the penalty-kill), the numbers are about what one would expect from a rookie netminder on a defensively-challenged team.
True, Gustavsson has many holes in his game, notably rebound control, puck-handling, and a tendency to over-commit to the shooter (which prevents him from being able to adequately recover on many of those rebounds). However, those are all technique-based issues. The intangibles, the aspects of the game that cannot be taught — a willingness to be aggressive and challenge the shooter, and his ability to maintain focus after allowing a bad goal, and his practice and video room habits as noted by Allaire — have been present from day one.
The point is, 32 games of a rookie season, on a team whose defensive play has been (until recently) embarrassingly bad, is simply not enough to justifiably make an assessment on a rookie netminder’s NHL future. Especially when his struggles are a product of factors which are tangible, as opposed to intangible.
J-S Giguere began to find success in his second year in Francois Allaire’s system, at age 24. Is there any real evidence to suggest Gustavsson can’t adapt in similar fashion, in his second year in the system, when he will be 26 years old (and much more comfortable in North America, both on and off the ice)?
Like anything, patience is the key. Gustavsson has shown enough flashes in the games he has played to suggest there is room to grow, and his coaches have yet to express any concerns whatsoever with his progress to date. Next season he will in all likelihood continue his progression as a backup (or possible 1B) to Giguere, with an eye on taking over the starter’s role in 2011-12.
The bottom line is, at this point in time Gustavsson continues to offer plenty of hope for the future. However, expectations for immediate results must be kept in check; he has had to manage several simultaneous adjustments, and has still been able to post respectable numbers for a rookie goaltender on a team in a state of flux. One must recognize just how steep the learning curve is, and harbor a realistic expectation for how much time the process may take.
Granted, if he shows no noticeable signs of progression toward the end of next season, in his second year under Allaire and with a full year of adapting to life in North America under his belt, at that point concerns about his future based solely upon the stat line will be far more justifiable. But for now, it’s simply far too early to make that assessment.
A final note: the acquisition of Giguere was not a move borne of little faith in the progress of Gustavsson; rather, it was a move conceived (in part) to further his development by providing a mentor who (a) had his share of struggles as a young player in the league; (b) knows Allaire’s technique inside-out; and (c) was a very effective (and willing) mentor to another young goaltender in Anaheim. There is nothing but good news, in terms of Gustavsson’s opportunity to maximize his potential within this arrangement.
Looking forward to your thoughts as always,
garrettbauman@mapleleafshotstove.com
twitter.com/garrettbauman
February 10th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
first sukkaz!
Holy shit people give the kid a chance!
February 10th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
So I guess we’re going to teach him everything while he stays on the big club playing minimal minutes. Very promising news!
February 10th, 2010 at 6:56 pm
Nice read. I couldn’t agree more.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Why is it that the MSM will sometimes “push” foolish, baseless notions like this one?
Because they thrive on controversial topics…pathetic really. They’ll reach for the high-controversy topic with no factual backing anyday over a well-researched piece.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
I would anticipate he plays between 30-40 games next season. That’s hardly minimal minutes.
This season he is likely to finish with around 38 games, assuming the coaching staff sticks to the plan of playing him once a week.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:06 pm
New blog post!
I concur with everything you’ve written: it’s too early to tell with Gus.
One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is the fact that he’s consistently poor in the same areas: rebound control, stick-handling, and over-committing (to a lesser degree, IMO). This is a good thing because it means that they can focus on these problem areas with training and repetition. Compare this to a goalie who makes bad judgement calls, or constant mental errors, etc. those mental lapses are alot harder to remove through training.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:10 pm
I said this on the other blog somewhere deep within its 1300+ comments, Gustavsson had Vesa Lostalot to ‘look up to’ and that is never a good thing to do. Well Giguere he is here to show young Gustavsson what it truly takes to win at this level, in how to prepare, how to play and perform. A winner.
Before this season started, it seemed that people wanted the young kids here to make their mistakes, perform and develop; let the young guys thrive and survive in a way.
A player needs more than 32 games to develop, is all I’m saying. Especially at the goaltender position.
Great write up as always Garrett.
and forgive my ignorance, what is MSM?
February 10th, 2010 at 7:15 pm
@ KKM:
MSM is shorthand for Mainstream Media.
I probably should have identified that in the article. Haha, it’s almost as unreasonable for me to expect all readers to know the term as it is for radio hosts to expect Gustavsson to look like a superstar 32 games into his career.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
Having Played Goal myself,for 20+ years I see Great Things in Gustavson,
The few flaws in his game are mostly due to the change from Euro to North American Style and ice size,as was posted,
If you’ve ever played ‘pool’…try playing on a billiard size table ?
you’ll get the idea about angles and rebounds etc…
Gustavson,especially now,with Giggy to mentor,watch,learn from, will be one of the topflight goalies in the NHL,Maybe Not this year,but going into next season and beyond…you can bet we’ll all be happy with his stats,Just give the ‘ROOKIE’ a chance to learn,like we have to,with any rookie at any position…
February 10th, 2010 at 7:17 pm
great post totally agree. look at fleury took him numerous years before he became what he is now. first season he had a .896%
February 10th, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Pat.b wrote:
EXACTLY. That is an excellent comparison.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
I like Allaire and I trust his judgement but until I actually start to see Gus improve on his weaknesses I’ll remain on the fence. At some point we will all know the answer to where his development ends up.
So far, based on what has actually happened in front of my eyes I’m not too happy with him and he is no where near the level I hoped he would be. Sorry Gus but this is how I feel. I really hope you can get it together and lead us to LSC.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Thanks Garrett.
@Pat. B. – I thought of that myself, but was too lazy to research it. Thanks.
The team is heading in the right direction, finally. Let’s give it a gestation period and watch it grow into potentially, something that hasn’t been seen round these parts in a very long time.
And by that, I mean a playoff berth……
February 10th, 2010 at 7:20 pm
A new post!!! Wow!
I must say I need to see more from the kid before I’m ready to say he’ll ever be a starting goalie.
When I look at Gusto I see a guy who’ll probably be a 1.b goalie…but never a 1a.
I just have my doubts that at 25 he’ll be able to take that step…although, I suppose if Tim Thomas has shown us anything it’s that age doesn’t really matter….
February 10th, 2010 at 7:23 pm
Garrett Bauman wrote:
Wasn’t he a little bit younger? Actually the youngest ever to start an NHL game. Not sure that is a good comparison at all. Gus is actually a month older and how many years behind.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:23 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Do you mean, dare I say it, Anaheim where our last two goaltenders ended up?
February 10th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
@ Garrett Bauman:
Good comparison,..still hardly accurate for any goalie that grew up in North America…as the original post mentioned..This IS Gustavson’s firt extended time playing The North American Game,
I still think Gus is adjusting to the size,angles,rebounds,just fine,his timing on rebounds has improved considerably since his first few games…more of the ‘controlled’ rebounds,
One thing I have noticed was that Giggy’s pads are much ‘softer’ and without the kicking motion…the rebounds tend to ‘slow down’ more,
February 10th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Francois Allaire said that at this stage practice is more important than starts and I tend to trust his judgement
February 10th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
Canadian kid wrote:
Statistics say that age is a huge factor against. How many guys Thomas’s age make it compared to not.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
Age isn’t the comparison in that case. Relevant NHL experience is.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:27 pm
And if you do want to make the age argument, well …
Giguere was 24 before he found success in the NHL. As mentioned in the article, it was his second year under Allaire when he first looked like a star netminder.
(also his 5th year overall in the league, 1st as a full-fledged starter)
February 10th, 2010 at 7:27 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
How many guys make it in general…
February 10th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
How many goalies are in their prime before they’re 25…compared to how many achieve their prime between the ages of 27 – 33 ??
Gus hasn’t had the games or the practise time to adjust…he Will,
February 10th, 2010 at 7:33 pm
I see someone else also just about shit themselves when listening to Leafs Lunch (the noon hour show on 640). I usually like Bill Watters’ take on things, but today’s Gustavsson argument was ridiculous.
The least he could have done was look up what the coaches have had to say about the kid (does he know what a Google search is?) or even simply Giguere’s stats from his time with Allaire in Anaheim.
Lazy argument, presented as fact when it was based in none. Amazing how far a guy can tread off an “Assistant GM” title from over a decade ago.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:35 pm
I just have my doubts. Thats all. Nuff said. We will see. Put all the cherries on top that you want. Things aren’t that good when it comes to Gus. Period! If things start to look up then I will be the first guy to be happy. But I’m not gonna be ignorant to the fact that he has struggled way more than anyone wanted to believe he would at the beginning of the year. AND in no way am I taking Waters side of the arguement either. Just my own take.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
Gerard wrote:
Watters is giving everyone with gray hair a bad name. He’s the same guy who one week after saying Bozak was too small to play was lauding him.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:37 pm
@ Garrett Bauman:
A little off topic but are we going to see any movement before the olympic break as far as the Leafs go?
February 10th, 2010 at 7:38 pm
His rebound control is what scares the crap outta me. He’s been used to giving up large rebounds on the bigger ice and not getting hurt…but he can’t do that in the real show.
It’s hard for a goalie to relearn all of that…as another poster said – to quiet him up a little is something that I’m not sure will…work out.
I am very hopeful that Gus can turn into that athletic freak of nature goalie we all thought we were getting…he’s just some learning to do – and fast.
One thing I do like about him…his perceived work ethic and mental attitude towards playing. He’s a team guy through and through and that’s something that’s been sorely needed in these parts for awhile.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
I think we’re receiving inbound messages only at this point….
February 10th, 2010 at 7:42 pm
@ long_suffering_leaf_fan:
I have my doubts. The Leafs are looking to move pending UFAs at this point, and I’m not inclined to believe a team interested in picking up a guy like Poni, Stempniak, or XLB will want to make a move prior to the Olympics.
Why pay the guy over the break if you don’t have to, right?
February 10th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
goalie situation for the leafs looks to be in great shape for the next few years. gustavsson looks like he’s got the skill to be #1 in 2011/2012. hopefully burke re-signs giggy to a 3-year contract at around 3 to 4 million, and with gustavsson arouns that’ll be a great tandem.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:44 pm
Thanks Bauman!!!
It’s good to have this in print.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:46 pm
Garrett Bauman wrote:
Watters is a senile douchebag.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
The radio guys have quite a few days between Leaf games this week to fill their airtime. They’ll offer any theory or story, especially something wrong, to get reasonable people to phone in and argue. It’s their bread and butter, they know what they’re doing. Same for television, explaining why the non-qualified (cough*Milbury*cough) have jobs. They’re not there to be insightful, they’re there to stir the pot to keep viewers talking while the hockey players rest. Goose will do fine.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
The olympic break is the perfect time to work a deal since everyone will be focused on olympic hockey and not paying so much attention to the trade deadline. I think thats when the GMs and Agents and Players get to have those quiet conversations…aka Kaberle.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:56 pm
@ peterbleafs:
Agreed.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:58 pm
Garrett,
I sent this article link to Greg Brady. He has always replied in the past, so hopefully they mention it tomorrow and debunk that old fart.
February 10th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
So Stalberg, Bozak, Hanson and Wallin are sitting together at the Raptors game tonight, the announcers made mention of it by naming Stalberg, Bozak and Hanson as being at the game. No mention of Wallin who was sitting right with them lol
February 10th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
He will be fine. Right now he is trying a little too hard and not letting the game to come to him, once he settles down a little bit he will stop over playing the angles and the rebound control will improve. Allaire has turned many players into decent goalies with practicing while a number one guy is playing most of the games. Any one can see he has amazing athleticism and talent and they must be blind if they havent seen anything good from him this year. So the question is not will he develop into a decent goalie, but will he become a guy like Giguere and be able to win a cup, or is he just going to become a guy who will be able to hold down the fort and win a playoff series or two.
Waters is an idiot. Can’t believe the trash we have to listen to coming from his mouth. How he is on TV and has his own radio show that “the entire hockey world listens to” kind of astounds me to be honest. Sportsnets coverage is pathetic compared to TSN who actually gets former players and coaches to talk to us aside from their regular guys. Millard is smarter than both the “analysts” Kypreos and Waters combined
February 10th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
Nice article Garrett and as usual, puts things into perspective.
I think that the biggest thing for Gustafsson was that this is his 1st year in NA period. He came over during the summer, and he had maybe 2-3 months before the season started. He had a heart surgery during that time, and during training camp of all times, so that didn’t help. Most of his summer was probably all about you know, knowing Toronto and fitting in rather then training with Allaire.
I’m wayyyy to lazt to check when Gus got here, and when Allaire got here, but I think that 2 things that need to be achived before we can really start to wonder.
1) He needs time. Give him until next season. All of his flaws (albeit some important) are those a young goalie always tends to have (poor rebound control, lack of puck movement). As it was mentioned, all the intangibles are there, and what he lacks can be taught with mentoring and practice.
2) More importantly, a full summer working with Allaire and then a training camp. This should help a lot. We ca nguess he got about half of training camp and half of the summer’s work of training in NA before this year. Next October, he should have a full NHL season (which contained parts of back to back games, long stretches of games, and well, NHL action, coaching, systems, etx…), a full summer of training (I’m no hockey player or goalie, but I can only assume that he can really work on adapting, and learning much more if he trains the whole summer) and a full training camp (if healthy : this should help a lot).
I think that really, the lack of training early in the year might’ve caused some degree of problems. Gustafsson has shown the ability to make big saves at the most oppurtunistic of times, and well, now he has Giguere in front of him, instead of “he who hath been traded and shall not be named for fear of having a goal scored in our net” (Toskala).
He’s still young, in his mid-20′s, and isn’t in the sual prime years yet. Many goalies who come straight to the NHL from Europe have these kinds of problems, so time is the awnser here.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
peterbleafs wrote:
From your mouth to G-d’s ears.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
Are you serious? What a slap in the face that was.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
Ouch. Poor guy.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
Hockeystudent23 wrote:
Millard’s a tool lol
February 10th, 2010 at 8:02 pm
peterbleafs wrote:
Hopefully as aka Kaberle is dominating in Vancouver!
February 10th, 2010 at 8:04 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
Wallin who? Is he some kind of stalker you know of?
Of course, I’m kidding. Although, you should really have to be a hardcore fan to know how Wallin looks like and that he exists. Which is, of course, not the Raptor commentators…
He has been “better” as of late, although usually he got 4th line minutes, now he’s getting 3rd line ones and no one who threatens his spot, which should make him a bit more comfortable on the ice.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:07 pm
Nights wrote:
He’s almost played the same amount of games as the other 3 combined so if you can recognize any of them, you should be able to recognize him lol
February 10th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
Yah, Millard is a tool.
I like Kypreos, but only because I appreciate his passion and unwavering support of his own opinion.
Maclean is useless. He calls Kovalchuk Kovlachook and today said Wayne Redden instead of Wade Redden.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:13 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
LOL i saw that too and was gonna post that up here but you beat me too it !
February 10th, 2010 at 8:16 pm
lukethenuke wrote:
If it were Kaberle not mentioned, we’d all be saying it was Burke’s idea in order to force him out!
February 10th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
Yup shows you just how bad Kipper and Waters are.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
Kypreos and Watters were all over Allaire on the San Jose game Monday, saying how he failed Toskala and that Toskala was within his rights not to listen to him etc, because Allaire never played in the NHL. It was fukn ridiculous listening to it, what a pair of boneheads.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:28 pm
Great blog, Garrett!
Since Giguere has arrived I’ve noticed some Leafs fans have turned on him… we’ve only seen a glimpse!
Good stuff.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:28 pm
I cant believe how simple those two fuckers are. I love watching them but when they stupid shit like that it sure is frustrating. Brutal.
Yeah its Allaires fault…haha. What a joke.
edit: and I would keep Gustavsson without a second of hesitation !!!
February 10th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
Just looking at Russia’s Olympic team…. meh. Not impressed. They don’t have nearly the depth at forward that Canada does. Sure, their top two lines are incredible, but after that…. Their D is solid, but that’s it. Their goaltending is strong.
US is weak on defense…. wow.
I think Canada takes the gold home.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:35 pm
Charlie wrote:
Never underestimate the ability of a goaltender like Nabokov (or Lundqvist, Miller and Brodeur or heck, Vokoun) to turn hot and completly steal games.
Also, when you need 2 defensive pairing on the ice at nearly all times to protect against Ovechkin, Kovalchuk, Malkin, Datsyuk, Radulov almost all game, well, you know you’re in for a heck of a good one.
Thankfully, Canada’s forwards all know how to play a solid defensive game too (most of them anyways) and all of our D can play shutdown except perhaps Boyle (more like an offensive guy, haven’t seen much to know better) and Doughty (that is purely because I haven’t seen him play that much. He probably can, but I haven’t seen it).
February 10th, 2010 at 8:35 pm
You guys talk like he is signed or something… His value is hard to judge right now but anything over 2 million is over paying. However we may have to, too keep him from going else where. I would give him a 3 year 5 million dollar deal. Mclean from hockey central says he will get 3 million a year, what an idiot.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
Charlie wrote:
They’re already home!!
February 10th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
Nights wrote:
I think our d is more of a puck moving type. Weber and Pronger would seem like a shutdown pair judging from watching them play. Seabrook, in the few games I’ve watched, seems to be more physical than Keith. But I could be wrong….
Either way, as long as our ‘tending holds up, we’re good.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
LeafsRyan. wrote:
Hahah, I stand corrected.
But you know what I meant.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
@ Charlie:
Well, from what I’ve read, Keith-Seabrook have been the Chigago shutdonw pair for a couple of years now. Keith was best known for a responsible defenseman who has incredible fitness levels (he’s on the bench for 20 seconds after a minute long shift and he’s ready to go I’ve read), and who could move the puck. Today, he’s seen as a great puckmover, but still has his defensive game.
I see the Pronger-Weber being the more shutdown role too, but Keith-Seabrook are equally, if not more due to chemistry, qualified.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:45 pm
@ Nights:
If it wasn’t for Keith, Bouwmeester would be on team Canada. Keith was a lock but not so much for Seabrook. Seabrook’s awesome chemistry with Keith and ability to shut down apposing forwards got him on team Canada.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Something off subject here, but I’ve been thinking for a while…
Vladimir Tarasenko (sp?) seems to be stuck in the KHL next year. He’s draftable this year and without this, would’ve landed in the top 5 (likely : the Russian Factor might’ve brought him down).
After this, he coud drop to the middle of the 1st round.
If ever we acquire a 1st rounder by any means, would you take a flier on this guy if he’s availible in that slot?
He has top 5 talent from what I read, and well, he wouldn’t be rushed, that’s for sure. I know I would. Who else outside the top 10 would be worth it? (EXCLUDING the obvious choices like, you know, Jack Campbell, Calvin Pickard, or any really good goaltender prospect).
If Campbell is gone, and Tarasenko is still there, I’d take a gamble on him.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
Another good thing that has/will come out of the Giguere trade is now the Leafs don’t have to pony up a ton of dough to resign Gustavsson. He’s no longer the #1 goalie and won’t have the opportunity to be the #1 next year either. Prior to the trade, that was a very real prospect and I could see him wanting $3 M per, but not now. He is a backup with less than 40 NHL games experience and he will get paid accordingly.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
@ LeafsRyan.:
I know Seabrook should thank Keith for his olympic chance. And that only re-inforces the point : that we have 2 defensive pairings who can be qualified as able shutdown pairs. That’s what Keith-Seabrook are doing in Chicago right now. It doesn’t stop Keith from having an offensive side. And Pronger and Weber can definately fit the role too, if asked. This should help against the Russians.
Canada and Russia for gold barring a miracle is almost a given. It’s going to be an interesting game, and stakes will never be higher. In that scenario, I wouldn’t count out the big game ability that Russia has in it’s top 2 lines. Although it’s very arguable that Canada has the same amount all over their roster (Brodeur, Crosby, Nash, Getzlaf f he plays (he was INSANE last year in the playoffs), etc…)
February 10th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
keon wrote:
1.5 – 175? Not 2 million.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
Will Gustavsson be playing Friday? I think he should. If he falters we can just blame RW again.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
No idea, but it won’t be 3
February 10th, 2010 at 8:56 pm
We all love the guy and he’s a good goalie but OMFG RW why did you play him you moron? So funny!
February 10th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Solid D:
Weber – Doughty
Boyle – Pronger
Seabrook – Keith
Neidermayer
February 10th, 2010 at 8:59 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Nah you go with JSG knowing he will get a game or two in the olympics.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:08 pm
Not sure if anyone is watching the Habs/Caps game, but Caps just got ripped off on a goal big time. F’ing Habs are so lucky.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:11 pm
DJBrianBurke wrote:
That wasn’t luck….that was fuckin atrocious…OMG,
the caps got ripped off for about 4minutes…LOL
goal scored on an offsides…
and then Ovie’s goal called back for ‘interference’ with no penalty ?
February 10th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
am640Brady
If Neuvirth isn’t injured, Bruce Boudreau just made worst-timed goalie change I’ve ever seen. 2-2 2nd, in comes Theodore..bang-bang..4-2.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:14 pm
[...] Read entire story (opens in new window) You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site. [...]
February 10th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
@ Doc_yqx:
So bad. I would be losing it if I was a Caps fan.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:15 pm
The Goof mcguire’s true colors are showing big time in calling the caps/smurfs game too….all the praise goin to carey price and every move the ‘decimated’ smurfs make is gold….what a crock lol
February 10th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
typical NHL and the Habs.
Here are more powerplays.
Here are more calls in your favour.
If there is anythings else we can do for you please let us know.
Gary the dipshit Bettman.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
Yes Green scores and it broke Pierre’s heart. I smell a comeback.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:39 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
I hope so.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:41 pm
DJBrianBurke wrote:
Caps are all over them so far this period. I’m right on the edge of my seat. Go Caps Go!
February 10th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
canucksnaphook wrote:
You would think to let that goal stand so the OV train could start rolling. Isn’t that what makes good TV?
February 10th, 2010 at 9:43 pm
I hope the caps burn the Habs and prolong their win streak so I don’t have to hear those habs fans chant their team are the only ones to beat Washington in god knows how long…
(Like I was doing about the Leafs beating the Sens in this nice little near Ottawa hometown of mine…)
February 10th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
Fucking idiot I am. Sitting here watching a shitty stream while I could just change it to TSN and watch on TV. Been an out of region Leaf fan for too long.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:49 pm
darenmillard
Caps on the short end of at least 4 calls in the second. Bizzare night.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:50 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
Haha. Although I never forget if the game is on TSN… it is, however, a second habitat when it’s game night to be infront of the computer moniter and watch a less then HD quality feed (damn Leafs TV and Sportsnet not allowing fans in the Ottawa Valley to watch the leaf games >__<)
February 10th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
Come back?
February 10th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
@ Nights:
i feel your pain man, we don’t get many games here in NL either
February 10th, 2010 at 9:53 pm
5-4 now. Fking right.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:53 pm
5-4 Habs…
Laich scored.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
lol Oh Pierre, the ship could be sinking and you would still praise the shipwright.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:55 pm
Nights wrote:
I know all about it. I lived in Kingston for 5 years. They black out the games where they play each other too. I miss all the Ottawa fans whining about the Leafs in those playoff series. It was so sweet.
February 10th, 2010 at 9:58 pm
Has anyone ever seen a team that can get themselves out of a hole better than the caps…
February 10th, 2010 at 9:59 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
I feel so spoiled: I get every game in HD.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:05 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Well, thank lord for technologic advances, because if the Sens and LEafs play, I can watch it somehow on Sportsnet… in non HD. Sucks, but I can see it on a big 50″ HD compared to a 20″ comp screen…
February 10th, 2010 at 10:06 pm
@ gravyface:
I’ve never ever seen anything in HD. But thats gonna change. I’m too passive with my wife and I let her win too many battles. I’ve made close to $400,000 in the past year and it’s time to put the pants on and get myself a gift. HDTV! Maybe she will get a chance to watch “Say yes to the dress” or “Rich bride, Poor bride” in HD too. I get it hooked up on the 19th and can’t wait.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Ah, the tired old Toronto sports media, the same guys who’ve already written off Phaneuf and Kessel.
Did anyone else read Damien Cocks’ gushing tribute to Bob Gainey? How Gainey was the consumate pro blah blah blah blah. Can you imagine DC writing an article like that about a Leafs manager who alienated most of the team’s core young players, who signed aging Euro players who collected big bucks to underperform and sit in the trainers’ room tending to their injuries, who failed to take his team deep into the playoffs throughout his tenure. Cocks would be skewering the guy alive and laughing at the “deluded fans” who supported him.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Perfect. Caps PP.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
@ JamesG:
Coxkhead’s skewered every leaf move,be it GM,Coach,Player,hell doesn’t he even rant about the colour’s of uniforms at least once a year ?
As someone mentioned earlier,with the Media’s bias coming outta LeafLand to Us ‘nether regions’…it’s all Great or Bust…never in between…lol
Thank God for blogs like this….or fans of any hockey team wouldn’t stand a chance lol
February 10th, 2010 at 10:13 pm
Goal Laich? Hat Trick?
YES!!!!!
TIED 5-5! HABS BREAKDOWN! HELL YEAH!
February 10th, 2010 at 10:13 pm
Fucking right. Yes Yes! Tie game.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:13 pm
TIE GAME!!!
Oh baby… what a team…
February 10th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
Can’t seem to see the game on TSN… odd.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:17 pm
I like how my wife joins me for a Caps game but won’t watch the Leafs with me. The Ovechkin factor I guess.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:21 pm
When Hal Gill played for the Leafs,
McGuire called him too old,too slow for ‘todays game’
Now,he’s the second coming of Larry Robinson…lol
February 10th, 2010 at 10:21 pm
…Damn.
I’ll never hear the end of this one.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Another OT win. Wish I never watched.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:34 pm
we give up on our goalies too fast just look at rask or even pogge he’s posting a .923% lets not make the same mistake with gus.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:50 pm
just because a goalie does well in obscurity does not mean he would do well in Toronto. The Leafs obviously require a proven goalie that can handle the pressure, not possible #1s. That being said, they shouldn’t give up on Gustavsson – provided he is willing to sign a reasonable contract to be a backup for one to two years.
Was watching the Caps/Habs game…Ovechkin just imposes his will on the game…Canada better have a plan to shut him down.
I have a question:
How do rookie salaries and their bonuses count against the cap?
February 10th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
How the fuck do the Habs do it? What are they in OT? Like 11-1 or something? Lucky little pukes.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:06 pm
JamesG wrote:
Damien ‘Cocks’ is a cock. So blatantly anti-Leaf it’s not funny. He actually lives on the same street as my Brother in Ancaster. Do you guys want to get together and egg his house?
February 10th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Maybe Smurfs is a bad name as an insult. The Smurfs always get away with their lives.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Off topic, but just say Dreger on TSN talking about how Tomas Kaberle is sticking to his wish to stay with Toronto. Someone should write about this.
Kaberle’s done good work here, but he’s done in Toronto. Not waving the NTC, knowing that in all likelihood he’ll be sold off in the window that opens draft day, is frustrating. If he really cared about the Leafs, or the future of the franchise, he’d waive, and be well loved in Toronto.
By not waiving, it also makes one think he doesn’t really care about winning the big prize. If he waived now, he’d likely be headed to a team that will contend both this year and next. If he waits, he could go to any team…even Edmonton or Carolina.
By not waiving he’s sending the message that “I’m not a winner” and if you’re not a winner, what are you?
If he doesn’t waive…will fans boo him?
February 10th, 2010 at 11:11 pm
unfunny wrote:
Guess I’m gonna start cheering the Caps then. Cause I’m a winner and cheering for the Leafs suggests “I’m not a winner”!
February 10th, 2010 at 11:38 pm
Pierre is so pro-Habs cause he used to be the color analyst on the radio for their games.
I hate the Habs. I do love my Laich pickup in my money fantasy league though.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:46 pm
I’m pretty sure Bobby Ryan reads this site.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:49 pm
Charlie wrote:
He just knows that I needed a boost in our fantasy league. I haven’t edited my lineup for like a month. Luckily Laich and Ryan weren’t on the bench tonight.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:55 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Haha.
I hope he gets the hatty. Just for you and all his doubters.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:58 pm
Allaire has it right, plus some forget that the kid lost his parents last year and has been called upon to play more consecutive games sooner, simply because Toskola has been hurt and the only alternative was not really all that inspiring as a starter.
Pogge was bailed on far too fast and unfairly driven out of town by some boobs in the press and by a few fans who know nothing about goalies.
Raycroft was booed out of town and deserved what he got, as a goalie who never seemed to take on any responsibility for a bad game. You have to have a little Curtis Joseph, or Ed Belfour, or Patrick Roy in you to be a top goalie, meaning that you get mad when you lose and you push your team-mates to do better or show them the way. Gus, has got that fire, but he needs to get a handle on the league to the point where the finer points are second nature, the Guigure move gives Gus a year to do his research, pay his dues and then offer a real challenge sometime next year if the chance arises. Guigure has a chance to start fresh and to avoid a repeat of the lost battle with a younger guy in Anaheim. Realistically, a situation where both goalies benefit and can offer the Leafs the best possible situation next year.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:07 am
What would it take to pry Carter from Philadelphia? Not from the Leafs in particular, but as far as assets go, generically speaking, for any team?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:09 am
@ unfunny
Obviously the fans aren’t going to boo kaberle for not waiving. give your head a shake. Just because he wants to remain a Leaf and try and turn the team around in toronto doesnt mean he doesnt like to win. I am all for trading him for a 1st rounder and top 6 forward, but really, him wanting to stay has nothing to do with not being a winner. It means his heart is in Tdot.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:14 am
What I don’t understand is why Burke doesnt’ say “listen Tomas, you want to stay, and we want you to stay, but we need you to bring in some assets so we can compete before you’re 37. pick a team in a city your family wouldn’t mind vacationing in, and after next season, you are welcome back in TO. we can work out a contract right now if you want, and it’ll just be sitting here waiting for you; you have my word.”
February 11th, 2010 at 12:26 am
I hope we see at least one more trade before the olympic trade freeze and then see the rest of the UFA’s traded on March.3.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:29 am
The only one I can see happening before the break would be Exelby. It would be sick if we could get the Wallin deal for Exelby. Teams are going to wait on Ponikarovsky, and especially Stempniak.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:44 am
@ Cameron:
I agree that Exellby would be the only deal we see and I hope we can move him because he doesn’t want to be a Leaf and I don’t want him to be a Leaf anymore,It would be best for everyone if he is moved now instead of later,It would be awsome if we could get the Wallin trade for him but a 4th rounder is good also.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:27 am
i could see why kaberle aint gonna waive his ntc…..burke didnt get what he was looking for last summer, kaberle’s gotta believe that there is a chance ( a small one) that burke will keep him for another year. What kaberle got to lose, he could finish of the seaoson in the town he loves instead of having to go somewhere now and then maybe go some other place after.
We’ll have to wiat till the summer for the kaberle trade , it aint gonna happen now……
February 11th, 2010 at 1:28 am
Cameron wrote:
I sometimes think that scenario is already in place but maybe Burke doesn’t see Tomas as necessary by then. Who knows?
I’ve been wondering about a trade that probably makes more sense in the summer as far as Kaberle is concerned, although I am someone who thinks Tomas will waive the NTC if BB let’s it be known(privately) that he has a trade in place that he likes.
What do you think of Kaberle + Beauchemin to Anaheim for Bobby Ryan + pick as the starting point for a trade.
The only reason I suggest this is because Anaheim has Dan Sexton signed for $575,000 next year as player they may want to get in the line-up. He’s got 9 goals and 9 assists in 28 games this year while playing only 13:56 /gm. A smaller player but he does average 1 hit a game and looks talented and versatile. His goals don’t appear to be an aberration or fluke as his shooting pct. is under 14.
By comparison Ryan’s shooting pct. last year was over 18%, a little hard to maintain for most players, playing 15.26 /gm. He’s bigger but does not hit that much more as yet. He will probably want a big raise and might like to move to the east(just guessing, but he is from New Jersey).
Perhaps Anaheim might prefer to upgrade their overall defense if they think Sexton is good to go next year. They also have Lupul signed longer term if he comes back ok. Do you think they will resign Artyukhin?
I don’t watch Anaheim games. Have you noticed Sexton at all? He’s really just a stat sheet to me right now.
Your thoughts?
Dan sexton Bio:
2008-09: Appeared in all 38 games with Bowling Green, collecting 17-22=39 points with 20 penalty minutes (PIM) Among Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) leaders, Sexton ranked tied for fifth in scoring and fifth in goals Was also tied for second in the CCHA with two shorthanded goals, tied for fifth with 18 power play points and tied for ninth with three game-winning goals Earned honorable mention from the CCHA in March when the 2008-09 All-CCHA First and Second Teams were announced Career Highlights: Recorded 60 points in 76 games with Bowling Green of the CCHA between 2007-2009 Began his collegiate career at Bowling Green in 2007-08, scoring 7-14=21 points with 42 PIM in 38 games Ranked fifth on the Falcons in scoring and first in shorthanded goals (3) while also recording two power play goals and five multiple-point games. Sexton earned CCHA Rookie of the Week honors with 2-2=4 points in a weekend sweep of Western Michigan, Jan. 18-19, 2008 Prior to joining Bowling Green, Sexton spent the 2006-07 season with Sioux Falls of the United States Hockey League (USHL). With 14-10=24 points and 20 PIM in 58 games, Sexton helped lead Sioux Falls to its first league title and a Tier I national championship. In eight USHL playoff games, Sexton scored 8-1=9 points with a +9 rating, leading the league in goals.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:00 am
Cameron wrote:
This x 100000000000000
February 11th, 2010 at 2:10 am
kingkessel wrote:
Haha! Too funny.
I’ll add to this.
BB: And further more, lets keep the agents and lawyers and stuff out of this OK Tomas.
TK: Sure thing Mr. Burke. We’re only dealing with millions of dollars here but hey, I have your word.
BB: That a boy Tomas. I knew you were a winner.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:26 am
Its Brian Burke dude. He does whatever he wants.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:10 am
[...] No Cause To Worry About Gustavsson : Maple Leafs Hot Stove [...]
February 11th, 2010 at 6:41 am
Regarding the Gustavsson story!
Which would you rather risk for the future?
A 25 year old who comes to a new country with a different culture and language.(shortly after losing his mother) and costing you nothing.
Or A Calder Cup winning goaltender who never playes a starter position post 2nd year who costs you a goalie named Rask.
No brainer, give this kid time!
February 11th, 2010 at 8:16 am
Cameron wrote:
Why won’t that work?
Phaneuf, Schenn, Gunnarsson, Aulie, Mikus, Komi, Beau, Finger, Oreskovic….. 2 years from now there won’t be any room for Kabby. Any of those guys that aren’t in the NHL already could easily be NHL ready by then, Burke won’t make a promise he can’t keep.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Not sure if it’s been mentioned, but the fact that Gus is Sweden’s backup goalie for the Olympics should tell you something about his abilities. Granted he will be playing on bigger ice again…..or will he? Is the ice going to be NHL size or Olympic size? Sounds like a stupid question but I really don’t know. Anyway interesting fact: there are only 5 Swedish goalies in the NHL; for some reason I thought that wasn’t a lot.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:49 am
@ SeanTML:
The ice is NHL size. They’re playing all(I think) the games at GM place.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:51 am
Cameron wrote:
I guess it depends on what they need. I’m thinking goaltending…Emery is hurt again I believe. I think they’re looking for secondary scoring too. But getting rid of Carter certainly won’t help.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:08 am
SeanTML wrote:
Excellent point
February 11th, 2010 at 9:09 am
Forsberg to play for Sweden at Games:
http://www.faceoff.com/story.html?id=0640281e-4695-48a1-ad49-b22953ee9e3e
Wonder if Mats will strap them on and join him (behave!)
February 11th, 2010 at 9:16 am
@Charlie
What’s up Charlie!
February 11th, 2010 at 9:17 am
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
What are you trying to kill the blog!
February 11th, 2010 at 9:17 am
@ Julie Sucks:
I think that part of their scoring problem stems from the fact that they have three scoring lines, and players have their job change every night. With Briere out last year, Carter and Richards were counted on to score, and their wingers knew what they had to get done. This year they’ve added VanRiemsdyk, Giroux (I know he was there for the last part of last year too), and Briere to that top six mix, and haven’t really subtracted anything.
I wonder if they would explore something like this in the summer, and I’m sure you’ll tell me if you think it’s stupid. Also, ignore the fact that it’s a three way deal for now:
To VAN: Kaberle, Mitchell, 3rd in 2010 (TOR)
To PHI: Schneider, Schroeder, 1st in 2010 (VAN)
To TOR: Carter
Everyone always throws Bieksa into these deals, but maybe the Nucks just throw in the rights to Mitchell, or O’Brien going to PHI, and stick with a Kaberle/Bieksa/Edler/Ehrhoff top 4. They’r rumored interested in Kaberle, and Schneider is definitely an expendable piece. They can take risks like throwing away a good prospect and a 1st because of the Sedins being locked up.
For Philly, they concenttrate their scoring, and basically start paying Briere to do what they hired him to do. He’ll have to take 2nd line duties beside JVR and Schroeder (former teammates = chemistry). Schneider is a goalie for their futre; potentially a franchise one. The first helps them replenish what they lost in the Pronger deal, and like I said, potentially, VAN throws in some rights in there as well.
Yes, no, maybe so?
February 11th, 2010 at 9:20 am
Seriously guys, I admire your courage. Why in hell would you watch a habs game? You seriously have too much time on your hands. I, will wait till the Leafs are a winning team to start watching habs game or mock them. I dread the habs-leafs game but we (leafs fan) crave for those games so much. I can’t wait till the day where we lose against the habs and we can still say, well we won 9 out of 10, no biggie.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:37 am
From Dregger:
Alexei Ponikarovsky continues to draw interest from as many as 10 teams. However, there have been no offers. The Leafs are asking for a second-round draft pick and a prospect or a roster player in return.
Toronto’s Tomas Kaberle remains firm on his desire to stay with the Maple Leafs, so failing a sudden change of heart, he will not be submitting a list of teams he would consider waiving his no-trade clause to join.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:39 am
A newspaper in montreal says the habs are about to trade for Frolov. The kings are trying to pull of another trade (ray whitney or slava Koslov) to send Frolov to montreal. Frolov is a really good player, but lacks heart. I’m still not sure how I feel about it. Is it a good or a bad thing. Could he Kovalev the dressing room with his princess like attitude and selfishness.
February 11th, 2010 at 9:42 am
Cameron wrote:
They very well may do something in the summer. I’m hoping for a frist round sweep by the team they play. Their fans will sour on them after that no doubt. Hopefully Carter has 0 points and plays terrible. It always seems when the Flyers struggle their fans are quick to blame him.
You’re right. They’re definitely stuck with Briere, so they have to use him as their #1 or 2 center. That does create a log jam down the middle and in the top 6 positions.
Plus, the Flyers are never afraid to make big deals. So trading Carter is never impossible, IMO.
Finally we agree on something, Cameron!
February 11th, 2010 at 9:58 am
Great article Garrett. You’ve hit the nail on the head.
First, I just want to say that mainstream sports media in Toronto is an embarrassment. You look at most of the guys on Sportsnet, CBC, even Leafs TV and they are old, ex-NHLers or ex-NHL management who barely did anything significant during their careers. To suggest they know better than the coaching staff is laughable.
Now that that’s out of the way, here are my thoughts on the situation:
Gustavsson having to adjust to the North American game is major. As you’ve noted, the flaws in his technique are a result of being able to get away with those habits in a completely different style of game in Europe. The plus side however, is that Gustavsson has Allaire. Gustavsson has said he always wanted to develop the kind of technique that Allaire teaches. If anyone can correct the flaws in his game, it’s him. For Watters to suggest that Allaire is “ruining” Gustavsson just proves how irrelevant Watters has become.
Another key point in the Allaire quote is Gustavsson also having to adjust to the NHL schedule, and a condensed schedule this year, no less. This is not easy for any player. You think you can do it, but going from 40 or 50 games a year to 82, and all of the travel involved, it is a major adjustment. Also, Gustavsson was only ever expected to play 30ish games this season. But because of Toskala’s bed shitting, he was forced to come in and play more than Leafs coaching wanted. Before the Giguere trade, it became quite apparent to me that Jonas was starting to burnout. The errors in his game become a little more frequent than earlier in the season and this could be because of the added workload.
When Burke made the Giguere trade, I loved the quote he had regarding Allaire and Gustavsson. He said that Allaire thought that Gustavsson was more talented at this point in his career than Hiller was when he was at the same point. Right there, that shows how much potential Gustavsson has, and with the proper training, he can be something really special in this league. It is completely unrealistic to expect him to reach this potential immediately. He is 25. In my opinion, most rookie goalies shouldn’t be playing regularly in the NHL until their mid-20’s anyways. You’re not as mentally mature enough to handle the pressure in your early 20’s. Fleury, Price and Mason are proof of great goaltenders who struggled when they were brought into the league too early.
Moving forward, I sign Gustavsson to a two-year contract extension at a cap hit of around $2M or under. I think he needs at least one more, full year in the NHL to be truly evaluated. And playing behind Giguere all of next year will go a long way. Now that said, I’m not convinced it’s all or nothing for next year. I wouldn’t be against re-signing Giguere to a one year extension at a much cheaper cap hit to continue to tandem with Gustavsson for the following two years. At that point, Jonas will be allowed to continue to improve without the pressure of being the #1 guy. Sometime in the 2nd year of his contract extension he should be ready to take over, if not before.
Anyways, lengthy response to your blog Garrett, but very well done!
February 11th, 2010 at 10:01 am
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
I guess we will have to wait till the summer to move him. At least he has put together a better year than last year, but he has 25 games to lay eggs to guarantee his return will be minimized. Sucks to be us!!
February 11th, 2010 at 10:05 am
B Leaf wrote:
It sure is looking that way as far as Kabs goes … I would like to see the return for Poni that Dregger suggests but it might be a bit much, I’d be happy with a good young roster player in return.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:07 am
@ danvertising:
Excellent post. I agree with everything you wrote.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:12 am
@ danvertising:
Good post danvertising and I, for one, have no problem reading lengthy replies in this genre.
It’s the stupid trade proposals that take up pages and pages that kill me. Once they start I tune out.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:20 am
honesthockey wrote:
Agreed
February 11th, 2010 at 10:22 am
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
On 590 they just said that Mats resigned as GM of the Swedish team…
I didn’t know he was GM of their team? Unless I heard the name wrong and it’s someone else.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:27 am
unfunny wrote:
He doesnt need to waive his NTC. He’ll be gone at the draft…Frankly, his value is probably higher at the deadline – as teams are desperate to make the playoffs….but he will turn into a 1st round pick and some prospects at the draft
February 11th, 2010 at 10:28 am
the_cause2000 wrote:
As long as they keep him off the ice every time Janssen takes a shift Friday night.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:33 am
Charlie wrote:
Could it be Mats Naslund?
February 11th, 2010 at 10:39 am
ingy56 wrote:
Yeah it is Mats Naslund
February 11th, 2010 at 10:41 am
@ honesthockey:
I agree pointless speculation does not interest me either
February 11th, 2010 at 10:47 am
@Pat.b
Me three, just hearing the word Stall, Tangradi, Horton, Lecavalier, etc. makes me want to puke!
February 11th, 2010 at 10:48 am
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
Yeah, thanks guys.
A love child between Mats Sundin and Markus Naslund?
Scandalous!
February 11th, 2010 at 11:12 am
Great article Garrett….too many people, especially the media, in Toronto look for nothing but negative things to say…especially about our sport teams!!
You can tell Gustavson’s passion, that he will get there and be a star in this league…he shows talent, passion and just needs tweaking to hit the top level!!
February 11th, 2010 at 11:21 am
I personally could have choked the shit out of Gustavsson when we lost the game last week. But its gonna take time. Some people though I wasw bashing him, but I was just saying Gustavsson was overrated by fans because he had a few great games to start the year. He also blew a few games too. Main thing is he takes it slow and were setup perfect with JSG here for next year too. I’m curious to see what Hiller’s numbers were when he first came in. Anyone check? I can’t, I’m at work. Thanks
February 11th, 2010 at 11:25 am
Hiller – 10-7-1 through the year with a
2.06 and .927
February 11th, 2010 at 11:32 am
kingkessel wrote:
in 23 games
February 11th, 2010 at 11:37 am
thanks rusty, wanna get high?
February 11th, 2010 at 11:38 am
don’t forget to bring a towel.
February 11th, 2010 at 11:48 am
emanuel82 wrote:
So how about Poni for Tangradi and a 2nd?
February 11th, 2010 at 11:52 am
I’m hoping that once Giguere’s current contract runs out, Burke can re-sign him for a modest cost. Goalies can remain competitive into their late thirties and having a Gus/Giguere combo down the line could be a very potent 1/2.
February 11th, 2010 at 11:52 am
Grahamzky wrote:
How many Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins games have you seen to even suggest that this deal would make sense?
February 11th, 2010 at 11:55 am
danvertising wrote:
Glad somebody caught on.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:00 pm
honesthockey wrote:
I’m assuming it was a joke
February 11th, 2010 at 12:02 pm
CarltontheBear wrote:
But exactly the type of posts we keep seeing. My response just wasn’t directed at him.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:04 pm
Jordan wrote:
Completely agree Jordan. Having doubts while remaining optimistic is truly the way to go in Toronto with regards to goal tending. Gustavsson has shown that there are some aspects about his game that are worth some concern. Lets hope he can truly become a “Monster”.
I for one was one of the most affected by all the hype surrounding him and I will never allow myself to fall into that trap again.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:06 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
Managing your own expectations goes a long way in determining your opinion of a player. I think most of us here have been burned by hype too many times to the point where we are all cynical by nature
February 11th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
danvertising wrote:
From now on I’m basing my opinions of players on what they do in this league. Not on what they have done in another. The level of play in the NHL is second to none. True colors shine on NHL ice.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Well put Garrett. You’ve eloquently broken down what have been trying to explain to friends and family who’ve asked me for my assessment of Jonas. Excellent read.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
I was all hyped up too, but I laughed when everyone was saying to “lock him up” at like 3-4 mil lol. A couple people called me stupid a few months ago but I will still say it now, that he shouldn’t get more then 1.5 mil. He doesn’t make 2.5 does he? That’s with Bonuses and his contact is smaller I think.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:22 pm
New York Rangers have put Donald Brashear on waivers.
Oh how the mighty have fallen.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:23 pm
@ Jordan:
You were one of the first to think about a plan B when it came to Gus. I remember you suggesting Jiggy and most thought you were crazy.
“We have The Monster, what do we need Jiggy for?”
February 11th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
Charlie wrote:
NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!! not Brashear!!!!
February 11th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Brashear-Bozak-Kessel
Anyone?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
Haha, yep:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Unhappy-with-role-Brashear-requests-trade?urn=nhl,219023&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
February 11th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Brashear should become a 25 goal, 60 point guy.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Jordan wrote:
Yep, his salary is 900k.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
I’m so glad, I hate that guy. I think it’s the living proof that tough guys have to be decent hockey players. After Laraque, Brashear, who’s next?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Any more than 1.5 for Gus is a gift. Thats still a 600k raise. How he earned any more than that is beyond me.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:34 pm
If there are any trades before the olympics, whats the deadline, tomorrow 7 pm ?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
@TuckerThomas
I would definitaly not offer more than that on a 2 or 3 years contract. Plus, Stempniak (if he is still in TO) will take a drastic paycut (at least a mil). More cap room for a guy like Brashear…lol
February 11th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
@ emanuel82:
I’ve always despised Brashear. He’ll get his trade but wouldn’t be surprised to see him playing in a beer league next year. I’m so happy to see these goons disappear.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
In this day and age everyone can skate. I remember when every team had a buncha guys who we’re lousy skaters. Anyone remember Brad Marsh?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
How about Stagone?
February 11th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
@modernhipster
I totally agree. I have nothing against toughness as long as it doesn’t become a joke.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
honesthockey wrote:
LMFAO! I actually Googled Stagone! Then I got your joke.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
honesthockey wrote:
HH, I thought you’d turned the page by now!
February 11th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
ingy56 wrote:
Oh I have I just couldn’t resist.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Brashear has another year after this and his cap hit is $1.4 million.
I don’t think they’ll find a taker for him.
Orr at $1 million would have been smarter for them to re-sign. Worked out for us.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
@Charlie
New-York Rangers and good management (hockey decision) don’t go often together!
February 11th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
I went out for a cigarette this morning and two leafs fan were talking. One of them was suggesting that it is still possible that Leafs make the playoffs. So I started thinking about it. Leafs have 49 pts. 22 games lefs (44 pts). If the leafs win them all, it gives them 93 points, which I think is not even enough to make te playoffs. I know you guys are all aware of that, but I JUST realised that the playoffs hope are dead this year. It made me a little bit bitter as I’m taking in the fact that the Leafs are (almost) officially out of the playoffs. Just wanted to share my sadness.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
honesthockey wrote:
Nil! Just a joke! Thought I would like to see someone puke! I gather you don’t like Tangradi – who Burke drafted? Or is it the other way round?
Did he draft him too high? Scouting reports sound pretty good – but, as we all know, scouting reports can be deceiving, right? What’s your take on him, I gather you see him?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
@ emanuel82:
Oh yeah, we’re done and I’m sad to say that we could easily be giving Boston their lottery pick. Carolina is ahead of us by 2pts with a game in hand. We really have to hope the Islanders tank. We should be good for 29th place (ahead of Edmonton)but anything more than that will need a couple VERY good runs.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
No I have never seen him play so I don’t comment. If I was to go by stats then he is comparible to Hanson in points (Hanson has played less games) and size. So if that was it would I trade Ponikarovsky for a little less than Hanson and a 2nd? Not so sure I would at this point. And don’t get me wrong I like Hanson.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
emanuel – “believe” it is either noon tomorrow – or 2 p.m. Eastern (believe this is the one)
Think there will be much action?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
honesthockey wrote:
Okay, sounds good, hope you’re right!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
@Grahamzky
I don’t know. I never would have guessed the phaneuf trade so I might be surprised. A lot of rumors on many players are going around the net, so we’ll see.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:11 pm
@ modernhipster:
Man, if we finish 25th there is gonna be a parade down Young St.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
I used to live near Belleville I didn’t get out to too many games but I saw Tangradi a few times. From what I saw he was good, hard on the puck, pretty slick for a big guy. He dominated, along with Mathias, for the Bulls but then again Wellwood dominated the OHL as well.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
The NHL’s Olympic roster freeze goes into effect at 3 p.m.(est) on Feb. 12.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:14 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
I heard 3 PM
February 11th, 2010 at 1:14 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
Oh! Man. I miss the Yardman. Had some good drunks on there in the past.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:15 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Phaneuf trade? Yea, could see Phaneuf being dealt but thought Sutter would get a top-end forward in return – or Kaberle! What was he thinking – or drinking? There is a hockey God after all!
Any more “Phaneuf” deals out there – do ya think?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:16 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
Probably correct – 2 or 3 p.m. Eastern
February 11th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
All roster freezes always go into effect at 3pm(est). Whether its the Olympic break or holliday freeze. Always 3pm(est).
February 11th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
@Grahamzky
I didn’t see him coming to TO for what we gave up. Anyways, I think the big ones will be at the march 3rd deadline, but we never know.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:22 pm
And the trade deadline is 3pm(est) on march 3rd!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
So perhaps I shouldn’t even ask this – but from what you saw, would you be happy with a Ponikarovsky for Tangradi and a 1st round pick from the Pens, if it were to occur? Too much? Too little?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
February 11th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
I dont see anything going down tomorrow. GMs will wait and play roulette over the olympic break. Gives em something to do. But I think lots will happen on trade deadline day.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
I predict 0 trades right before the freeze… PHONEBOOK IT!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
TSN QUIZ : What was Bob Gainey’s best move as GM of the Canadiens
I can think of two.
1: Made them the world smallest team in the world of sport (including midget wrestling)
2.Got rid of the only guy who could protect them or strike fear in the opposition
Special mention for that Ribeiro vs Ninnima trade.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
honesthockey wrote:
I would, simply because I don’t think any team is going to offer us a player + pick for Poni seeing he is a UFA.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
I have to correct myself. Holiday freeze is at midnight (est). Not that anyone cares about the holiday freeze at this point.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:26 pm
Not Hockey related but I thought I would share for fun! Please don’t bash for doing so!
A well known radio host in NFLD answered a caller Monday morning and this was the brief conversation.
Caller- “Hello Mr Rowe”
Mr. Rowe- “Go ahead caller what is the purpose for your call”
Caller- ” Mr Rowe, are you aware that the R.C.M.P are sending 70 officers to Cuba to help”
Mr. Rowe- ” You mean Haiti don’t you caller”
Caller- ” No, I am sure they said 70″
February 11th, 2010 at 1:26 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
3) stepping down
February 11th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
3. Stepping down!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Deadline day (both of them) could be a pretty quiet day. I’m going to work from home with the TV on all day (flipping back and forth from TSN & The Score) but not expecting any blockbusters. IF Kaberle goes, that could be the biggest move of the day…but who knows, Gauthier could surprise us all and move Price or Halak.
My deadline day wet dream: Finger off the books for a 6th.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
@ NewfieDave:
Did you hear about the twin seater plane that crashed in the cemetery just outside St. Johns?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
@NewfieDave
lol
February 11th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
NewfieDave wrote:
I guess most newfies think alike
February 11th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
@modernhipster
Tell me about it. That would be as magical as when he got rid of Blake!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
The return sounds too high. What would you be willing to add to Poni.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
@ NewfieDave:
thats pure gold lol
February 11th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
modernhipster wrote:
I would be happy with Finger Plus a 6th to get him off the books.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Apparently, they have already recovered 276 bodies.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
LOL…and oldie but still a goodie
February 11th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
@ NewfieDave:
I’m not a newfie so my newfie jokes suck.
It’s not a good newfie joke unless told by a newfie.
February 11th, 2010 at 1:40 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Scary part they found 10 survivors!!!!!!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
o2baleaf wrote:
All from Quebec
February 11th, 2010 at 1:55 pm
When did this plane crash?
February 11th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
NewfieDave wrote:
I heard that Newfoundland wanted Quebec to separate because it would cut 5 hours off the drive to Toronto. (My grandmother is from Change Islands, so I guess I am allowed to participate in Newfie jokes)
February 11th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
It’s called he “transition” phase that Gustavsson is going through. Obviously it will take some time and lows… Bill Watters is such a bandwagoner. Remember he said Kessel sucks in sportsnet? And now recently he contributed, and Watters say hes a good player now.. Same here with Gustavsson..
February 11th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
The Canadian Pilots association has recinded all ‘float plane’ pilot’s licences in Quebec….because they’re losing too many pilots on the ‘walk around’….
February 11th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Doc_yqx wrote:
Thats dumb. They should have just given them all swimming lessons.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Bob is your uncle wrote:
If it’s too high – maybe go for Tangradi and 2nd rounder – or offer them an add-on of one of Finger, Stempniak, Exelby, Oreskovic, Frogren, Rosehill or Primeau – their choice! Depends what the Leafs think of Tangradi – if he is not a top prospect, Stempniak would be pulled off the deal. Ideally it would be Finger!
Actually if the Leafs don’t think Tangradi is a top prospect, do you make the deal at all, unless they take Finger of course?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
do you know how the St Lawrence River was originally discovered?
a bunch of guys were playing hockey, and the newfie got a breakaway!
February 11th, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Garrett: Gus has been handed an NHL job on a platter and he has proven that he’s not ready to dominate. This is never done for a Canadian goaltender except maybe Mason in Columbus – and what did he do, got them into the playoffs. Gus has proven that he needs a few years with the Marlies – that is all. It’s time all rookies must prove themselves in the AHL and stop wasting our time and money.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:23 pm
27leafs wrote:
Thank you very much. Wow. Someone understands how this shit works.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
When a rookie shows he deserves a shot then he gets it. He also better grab the bull by the horns or get sent back down to develop.
Someone please explain how someone with as many flaws as Gus isn’t gonna benefit from more starts in a development league.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
Uh oh Ecklund says something is up with Poni … could be Pits or Chicago!
Damn I’m bored
February 11th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
27leafs wrote:
Mason .898 SAV, 3.09 GAA GP 43
Gustavsson .898 SAV, 3.07 GAA GP 32
I dont see a lot of difference between Gus and Mason this year so far. Except Gus played through two heart surgeries, a death of a parent, on a dysfunctional team, lots of changes, entire new goalie coach and a negative role model in Toskala. I see a ton of promise in this guy.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
EK is fat pig (e5)!
February 11th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
peterbleafs wrote:
Touche! nice
February 11th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
My landlord is such a cougar.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
@peterbleafs
lol, Mason has had a TERRIBLE year! Be HE has no excuses.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Had a bean burrito for lunch, have gas (e5)
February 11th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
I think the Monster will do just fine developing on the team, watching how Jiggy works, and how to work more compatibly with Frankie. I don’t think acclimatization to 3 games in 3 nights, and riding the buses are wise for his health and development.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
Poni doesnt fit in Chicago but he does fit in Pittsburgh, they need a decent quality big body winger for the playoffs who adds secondary scoring. Poni would blossom in Pittsburgh. Chicago will not make any moves this year. Why would they screw up a team thats capable of winning as is? Why mess with a good thing?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Many flaws? I would not go that far, the goal situation in Toronto has dictated why he has not been sent down, Vesa was injuried on a couple ocassions, and when he wan’t injuried he played like crap. We could have called up Mcdonald, but on a straight call up he could have been lost on waivers, besides that he played no better than Gus or Vesa. He did earn his chance, playing the way he did in the SEL surley could be comparitive to playing the AHL. Do you believe playing behind the Marlies this year could have helped him, they are the same if not worse that the big club.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
As usual Emanuel you are missing the point. But soldier on, many good revelations lie ahead in your future if you just open up your mind.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
As usual Emanuel you are missing the point. But soldier on, many good revelations lie ahead in your future if you just open up your mind.o2baleaf wrote:
We all saw a few games this year when Gustavsson was quiet in net, relaxed and composed. On those nights he was stellar. I foresee many more of those games coming up. Sure seasoning is required, and maybe a short stint or two in the minors to work on a few things but the majority of his development has to be in the NHL. Didnt Fleury go up and down several times to the AHL during his first few years?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
@ peterbleafs:
I agree with you peterbleafs – a ton of promise – but please let’s see him prove it the minors. I think the only reason he’s with the Leafs is because he was promised a chance during contract negotiations. He’s had his chance now get better before the next chance.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
say what you want but gustavsson was the best option for net until giggy got here.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
ogie ogilthorpe wrote:
Look at how it is negatively affecting Reimer. And if the guy is too unhealthy to ride a bus then the crease on an NHL ice surface is the wrong place to be.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
Carolina says they want a 1st & a prospect for Whitney. This guy’s, what? 37-38?
Poni for a 2nd and prospect (with possibility of signing him at 3 mil-ish) sounds much more desireable to me.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:50 pm
modernhipster wrote:
I can’t imagine anyone giving a first and a prospect for Whitney.
It’s ludicrous for them to expect that.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Cool.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
@long_suffering_leaf_fan
Never watch a single game of hockey (e5) googles random hockey players and starts rumors (e4)…his dog makes predictions for him (e5).
February 11th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Don’t you live in my grandmother’s building?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
She’s probably 45, long blonde hair, blue eyes, yoga body.
I’ll have to call her over while I’m doing some yard work in the summer, all sweaty and buff….and have a pitcher of Margarita on standby.
I should be saving this stuff for Penthouse Forums.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Reimer was born in Canada and raised playing North American style hockey. Some players get lost in the minors as well, not every good player in the NHL is automatically better for AHL experience.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
@ emanuel82:
what’s the (e4), (e5) stuff mean (relating to Eklund)?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
@27leafs
my mind is open enough to agree with you
@peterbleaf
explain, how I missed the point? Think of it as me being retarded. Use very simple words on how you can compare Mason’s first year (18 years old) to Gustavsson first year (25 years old).
February 11th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
And is very successful at what he does. He applied one of those get rich quick scams to hockey and had made so much money it’s unreal. Immoral but very intelligent.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
@TuckerThomas
I love you man. You couldn’t be more right!
February 11th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
@modernhipster
moking ek
February 11th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
@ emanuel82:
Give it up. The hype hasn’t fully subsided in most minds.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
Some dude is saying this on tsn.ca forum:
Reading out there that a deal that would send Frolov to Montreal is all but done but pending the acquisition of Ray Whitney by the Kings.
Another poster was saying that Frolov to MTL will be a done deal soon too.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
I meant mockin ek
February 11th, 2010 at 3:00 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Ha. I was just thinking I read that in Penthouse Forum once. Keep us informed.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:02 pm
modernhipster wrote:
.
Does she drive, or needs a pickup?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:03 pm
@modernhipster
Dude, you don’t need to wait for the summer. You also don’t have to get buff to get a chick, especially if she’s into yoga. You just have to be a cool cat. Make (let) her talk, raise your eyebrows as if you are really feeling what she’s talking about…so on and so on.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:03 pm
@ Grahamzky: When I first looked at your proposal it seemed you were asking too much for Poni and it still does. I think most people think Poni by himself will not get a high 1st. Pittsburg’s 1st will probably be 20/25, so it’s not that great, but I would think we would have to add something like a late round pick, but maybe not. So to add Tangradi looks to me like we would have to add a prospect or player as well. I don’t know how good Tangradi is or obviously if BB would still be interested in him. None of the names you mentioned sound like they would interest Pittsburg. I would think that they would want someone like Paradis or a prospect with some skills. How would you rank our prospects? Which ones would you least want to move?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
Blue Max wrote:
Geesh.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
@modernhipster
I said that this morning, they talk about it everywhere in montreal, but it’s still just a rumor.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
If she’s a legit cougar, you don’t need to do that much. Offering her a drink should pretty much guarantee you a home run. She wants it.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
God … looking at point leaders on nhl.com, Antropov is tied with Alfredsson, Datsyuk, Sharp and Toews in total points. Any talk of Atlanta trading for Poni to play with him seems irrelevant, he seems to do just fine on his own.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
.
Relax! Remember, I came in at the end of the conversation.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:08 pm
@long_suffering_leaf_fan
Sweet, so maybe we can score more for his twin brother (Poni of course)
February 11th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
TuckerThomas That depends… does Alliare have substantially more time with him if he is in the NHL then if he is in the AHL?
And since I was corrected on Gus’ salary a while ago.. It is a EL contract which means it is $900,000 + Bonuses and it is only a one year deal because of his age. So why are people saying a 1-2 year contract? So that he will have had time to prove somthing here to get a raise? That is not good cap management. Keep in mind he is a RFA not a UFA at the end of the year. So his qualifing offer would mean a 10% raise. I would think a 3yr 5M or 4yr 7M deal will get the job done nicely. Giving us a year or two with a good goaltender on a good salary. And I do not think going to arbitration will do him any good.
Elliott, Brian OTT G 24 0.850
Harding, Josh MIN G 25 1.100
Budaj, Peter COL G 26 1.250
Hiller, Jonas ANA G 27 1.300
Anderson, Craig COL G 28 1.812
Ellis, Dan NAS G 29 1.750
Emery, Ray PHI G 26 1.500
February 11th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
.
Well, Kessel did come in a year later, eh?!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:10 pm
@ emanuel82:
She wouldn’t be easy….she’s a good woman, very dedicated to her husband. I just want to put all the pieces in place and prey on her insecurites/fantasies.
I’m buff enough, but when it’s hot out, you’re glistening and a frosty pitcher of margarita is sitting there…..sets it up very well. Besides, I want her to see my checking her out in her hot lil skirt and tank top.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
@modernhipster
Dude, you are one sneaky bastard. No use for pep talk here.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
@ peterbleafs:
Dead On….You’re so right about Gustavson,
As Rookie Goaltenders go, he’s ahead of the ‘learning curve’in that his first season was filled with obstacles but he still manages to come out ‘mostly’ on top…and has been improving big time,
February 11th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Yer alright man.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
I rather talk about cougar than Gustavsson, I aim drained!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Any day.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
@modernhipster
Btw, she probably alreay noticed you checking her out. Women are good at that, they have like a sixth sense.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Where’s Charles??? anyone?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
modernhipster wrote:
.
Cougars are supposed single/divorced/widowed older women going after younger guys? That’s a MILF, or some shit like that. Oh, and given that
she’s married shouldn’t you be a Habs’ fan given that you, admittedly, have no morals?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
Blue Max wrote:
That’s not nice. Married women need love too.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
Blue Max wrote:
Low blow man. It’s all just “fantasy” talk. Kind of like all the posters’ wishful trades on this site
February 11th, 2010 at 3:24 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
Exactly.
If they give into temptation, they’re not very happy
February 11th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
@modernhipster
OOOHHHHH SNAP. You are my hero!!! LMFAO!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Blue Max’s woman left him for the pool boy. Or was it the gardener? I can’t remember.
Either way, he’s still sore about it.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Absolutely. You’re just being a good neighbour.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:27 pm
When Charles called me yesterday : “a old whore that used to go on maury”. Is that a cougar? Or is that simply a skank?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:27 pm
modernhipster gives blue max a hug and tells him, “it’s alright, she doesn’t deserve you”
February 11th, 2010 at 3:28 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
for sure a skank, skank.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
@Julie Sucks
seriously. I would give anything for a pitcher of margarita!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
modernhipster wrote:
haha. Ouch.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
@ emanuel82:
I consider a cougar to be a hot, middle aged woman. Some are good, some are skanks. I think MILF is a similar term, provided both the MILF and the Cougar both have at least one child.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
You guys almost made give in to temptation! Shame on you!
I like cougars more than MILFS though. Much less involved other than
a wrong telephone number.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
lol
February 11th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
@Blue Max
Don’t listen to those guys, you are better off without her!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:31 pm
@Blue Max
Because they have more self-respect and they are morally in bound?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:31 pm
eh…GO LEAFS GO!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:33 pm
modernhipster wrote:
.
Nahhh, Milf could be anything (now that I think about it), cougar is single, or implied to be (I’m sure of that).
February 11th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Hahahaha…. good stuff man!
What’s her husband like? Beat the shit outta you if he caught you type or oblivious to the world type?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Ever watch Cougartown?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
@Charlie
What’s cougartown charles?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
From the Urban Dictionary:
Cougar:
An older woman who frequents clubs in order to score with a much younger man. The cougar can be anyone from an overly surgically altered wind tunnel victim, to an absolute sad and bloated old horn-meister, to a real hottie or milf. Cougars are gaining in popularity — particularly the true hotties — as young men find not only a sexual high, but many times a chick with her shit together.
and
Milf:
mothers, whether married, separated or divorced, that a male individual sees as physical attractive enough to want to have sexual intercourse with them. Just cuz their moms doesn’t mean that they don’t need a spark in their love life. If they’ve ever breastfed,they have really responsive nipples and a core of erectile tissue in their breasts. The ones in good shape have worked at regaining control over their vaginas (Kegel exercises).MILFs are usually real careful about birth control, they know accidents happen but they take responsible steps. They want to fuck with abandon, with no romantic complications for their under-19 family.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
Any good?
I’ve been trying to post a link without making any of it look like a link but it won’t post, lol.
Is a moderater watching my every post?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
I would say, based on that, that cougars are more desirable.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:41 pm
modernhipster wrote:
@ emanuel82:
She wouldn’t be easy….she’s a good woman, very dedicated to her husband. I just want to put all the pieces in place and prey on her insecurites/fantasies.
I’m buff enough, but when it’s hot out, you’re glistening and a frosty pitcher of margarita is sitting there…..sets it up very well. Besides, I want her to see my checking her out in her hot lil skirt and tank top.
See, to bring this back to hockey (because this is MLSE), you are more of a Dion Phaneuf (offensive defensemen), I would be more of a defensive defensemen, you know stay at home and all.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:41 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
LMAO. She’s definitely a milf.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:41 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
You’re getting too technical with me! Are you talking about the Habs’ fans, the cougars, or the Milfs? Don’t they all have vaginas?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Seeing as you put it that way…Modernhipster is a cherry-picking, sniping, up-and-down winger.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
@Julie Sucks
Thanks, very helpful!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
modernhipster wrote:
You’ll let us know when you seal the deal, ya?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Blue Max wrote:
Very nice!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Blue Max wrote:
Hahahaha, priceless.
Aren’t there any trades going down right now? I’m wasting my day away here.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:44 pm
@Blue Max
lol…amazing. Who cares after that joke. eh that truth i mean
February 11th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Cougars are more attractive craddle robbers
Here is one that will blow your minds
My wifes cousin is 42 year old with a yoga body and loves to party it up.
She recently seperated and has 2 kids (ages 19 and 16)
Is she a MILF or a Cougar?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
@modernhipster
Nothing, start a new phantasy and we’ll see if a trade comes up. Wasn’t there one with your roomate also?!?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
I B Leaf wrote:
I’m leaning towards Milf.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
I B Leaf wrote:
Who cares? What’s her number?
February 11th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
I B Leaf wrote:
Depends if she looks for younger (than her) guys to fuck around with.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
modernhipster wrote:
lol.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:48 pm
@ emanuel82:
My roommate is my girlfriend, lol.
My landlord adores my girlfriend.
Only way it will happen is if:
A) we break up
B) my GF agrees to a thresome
February 11th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Shiiittttt….
That would be awesome!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
At 37 years old milfs and cougars are the last thing on my mind.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:53 pm
I B Leaf wrote:
Oh Oh !!! Trick question she is both!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:54 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
Sorry I would have to disagree. I am 26 and she loves to come party down town with US younger people. Funny thing is the aunt and uncle use to go DT together and the boys would go one way and the girls the other… I figure that is why they seperated.
@ modernhipster:
Get in line
February 11th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
So do you work backwards and go for the college chicks? or do you jump ahead and go for the grannies? mmmm, like opening a grilled cheese sandwich.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
I can’t wait til the regulars log on later and read all these posts.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
modernhipster wrote:
hold the ketchup!
February 11th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
modernhipster wrote:
HAHAH grilled cheese sandwich… still think that is funny to this day and my uncle told me that joke when I was really young.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
I like shy girls cause they don’t talk much!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
Good question, how old are you modern sniper?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:02 pm
perfect relationship… mute wife blind husband
February 11th, 2010 at 4:02 pm
@Mortagleus
Damn right!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:03 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
If they don’t talk much ’cause their mouth is full, do they qualify as “shy”, or do they just have “good table manners’?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:03 pm
@ emanuel82:
34.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:04 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Yeah, Backwards. I was wondering about I B Leaf’s wife’s cousin’s 19 yr old. Male or female?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:05 pm
modernhipster wrote:
your an old bastard just like me lol
February 11th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
@Blue Max
Weren’t you the one talking about moral, values and dignity before?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
@ TuckerThomas:
female she stood up in our wedding… She WAS shy.
and No word of a lie I just was entring a clients info and they made a $250 purchase from Cougar sales and rental
February 11th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
@ Mortagleus:
I’m youthful looking…most women think i’m 25-28. Holding my own so far
February 11th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
Testing, testing…1-2-3!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
WTF IS ALL THIS COUGER TALK ABOUT?!?!?!?
I log on and all i see is “No i think a couger is…, she is definatly a couger…” LOL
February 11th, 2010 at 4:11 pm
lukethenuke wrote:
Hahaha…I was just saying I wonder what the regulars will say when they log in to read the old posts
February 11th, 2010 at 4:11 pm
@lukethenuke
Dmitri Couger very good prospect from the OHL.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:11 pm
Sorry, I started it all by saying that my landlord is a cougar.
Just sort of snowballed from there.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:11 pm
lukethenuke wrote:
Everyone is already convinced Gus will be our starter after next year so there was nothing else to talk about other than MILFS and Cougars.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:11 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Hahahaha.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Blue Max wrote:
.
Can someone please please answer this one so I can go to sleep for my night shift?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
@modernhipster
See I’m 27 and they think i’m 20. They still ask for my ID when I go buy beer
February 11th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
@TuckerThomas
That’s how fed up Leafs fan are from missing the playoffs year after year
February 11th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
Blue Max wrote:
It depends whether you’ve got her on the table or not!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
lol
February 11th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
A couger’s got to be better than a cougar and a milf put together! Gots to have one of those!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
@ emanuel82:
That just means you are a scrawny little fucker…
I wonder if anyone will beat me to saying this?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
Bob is your uncle wrote:
Prospects? Kadri, D’Amigo, Blacker,DiDomenico,Stefanovich, Aulie, Paradis, Champagne, Hayes, Ryan – in an order somewhat like that – plus the kiks that are already up there. Did I miss anyone?
It should be noted that I mentioned Tangradi and a 2nd before for Poni – but many felt that we should get more. No more trading of picks, we have lost enough already! Perhaps if necessary we could add in prospect Dale Mitchell?
Don’t know the Pens could use some toughness on “D” maybe they would take one of ours that I previously mentioned? Maybe they will try and get Hal Gill back!!!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
@Blue Max
Dude, that was so dumb, yet so funny, my eyes are still watery.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:19 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
.
What if she’s under?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:19 pm
@I B Leaf
Thank you very much sir!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
Just like all the “Airplane” movies, eh?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
@Blue Max
You seriously made my day.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
Blue Max wrote:
Then I guess you call her shy or just simply a good woman.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:21 pm
Grahamzky wrote:
Stay on topic, please.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
Ding Ding Ding We have a winner
Answer of the day!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
.
Ha, ha! Now that WAS funny!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Julie Sucks wrote :
Stay on topic, please
That’s what she said!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
Ok, Let’s talk about the Leafs from now on. But do you guys realise that you talk about the SAME damn thing EVERY DAY. TANGRADI this, STALL that, GUSTAVSSON, blah, blah, blah. Let’s make a brand new fresh topic we never heard Before!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
Cougar vs MILF or Nurse vs Dental Assistant
February 11th, 2010 at 4:41 pm
I find it hard to believe that there has only been 1 new blog this whole week.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:41 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
hahahah
February 11th, 2010 at 4:41 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
hahahah
February 11th, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Mortagleus wrote:
.
Please don’t start me about Dental Assistants!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
Pretty quiet week. Very boring to be a Leaf fan especially because we just had a huge trade
February 11th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Mortagleus wrote:
Nurse any day.
What about French maid or Catholic school girl?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
@Julie Sucks
French maid hands down
February 11th, 2010 at 4:45 pm
@ emanuel82:
I love a french accent on a hot chick. I guess thats why most strippers are from MTL!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:46 pm
there is no way that we are getting more than a 2 rounder for poni
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
I dated a dental assistant a couple years ago. She was actually a high school sweety and we hooked up via Facebook for some chat and eventually some drinks on the beach with her friend and my buddy.
Took all of 4hrs to get a bit of action and 2 days to get ALL the action.
A month later she left her husband of only 10 months and their brand new home.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
.
It depends on which day of the week we’re talking about?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
haha. Yeah, the French accent rocks! Russian or Eastern Euro is fine too. It’s like when they speak what they’re really saying is, “Fuck me hard, big boy”.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
kap wrote:
I’d bet you we do. If 2nd is where the bidding starts and there at a bunch of teams interested, we can probably pick up a mid level prospect and 2nd.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
kap wrote:
way to ruin our french maid/ catholic school girl topic
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
You might know her Julie Sucks!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
Interesting article, you guys probably already read it
http://mapleleafs.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=517243&navid=DL|TOR|home
February 11th, 2010 at 4:48 pm
modernhipster wrote:
…And that’s your roommate now?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:48 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
I just find it funny that after you said this it took someone 12 mins to respond and the responses before this were within the same minute or a minute or two a part
February 11th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
Can’t you guys go to redtube.com to talk about milf’s and cougar’s??
February 11th, 2010 at 4:49 pm
modernhipster wrote:
wait a minute…my X was a dental assistant!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
Ahhh it’s great to be 18
February 11th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
27leafs wrote:
I think you’re in the wrong blog.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
modernhipster wrote:
.
Were you that good, or had that many bad teeth she figured she could make a fortune of of you?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
Nope.
The dental assistant decided she wanted to try the single life (behind my back) and had an affair with some Rico Suave Cuban that taught her how to Salsa. She later found out he was dating 4 girls at once.
AND she got a nice lil STD out of the deal.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:50 pm
school girl definately….
February 11th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
Her initials are J.D.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:52 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Oh man… if it’s a serious one you should get her to sleep with a Habs fan… there’s gotta be one that’s into girls… Once you infect one Habs fan, the rest will surely contract it.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:53 pm
modernhipster wrote:
haha…’Rico Suave Cuban’. That’s funny. Those guys have all the fun.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
2 Minutes for Looking so Guru wrote:
Dirty, just dirty.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
modernhipster wrote:
.
We need full disclosure! She might be working on my teeth, or something, you know.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
modernhipster wrote:
…close…from what town?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:55 pm
@27leafs
What’s a red tube?
February 11th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
…For the record, I’ll take a nurse and a Catholic school girl…But my favourite is always a stewardess.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
Man, I’m I ever leaving that one alone!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
She went to EESS, grew up near Aylmer. Last name: Davis
February 11th, 2010 at 4:57 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
Cowgirl! Definitely a cowgirl!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
I gotta go, works over. You guys have been amazing! Thanks! It’s been a while since I laughed that much!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:59 pm
emanuel82 wrote:
.
Goodnight bud!
February 11th, 2010 at 4:59 pm
TuckerThomas wrote:
yee-fucking-haw! Remember Jessica Simpson as Daisy Duke. Wow.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Related to Brad?
February 11th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
his sister.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:04 pm
modernhipster wrote:
Holy shit…That is funny. I know who she is.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:05 pm
@ modernhipster:
I grew up on Lakeshore road…near Copenhagen. I know all those people.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:06 pm
Hey, anyone ever had a stewardess?
February 11th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
@ Julie Sucks:
She’s such a babe….but spoiled rotten.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:20 pm
HOCKEY!
February 11th, 2010 at 5:24 pm
GO LEAFS!
February 11th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
better yet a good lookin cougar in a catholic school girl uniform….
February 11th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
derek wrote:
better than a catholic school girl in a cougar outfit.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:51 pm
modernhipster wrote:
lol….i think i wet myself……
February 11th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
@ Grahamzky:
I took this list from a pre-season Alec Brownescombe article
Maple Leafs Top 20 at a glance
1. (NR) Nazem Kadri, C – 8.0 C
2. (NR) Jonas Gustavsson, G – 7.5 B
3. (3) Mikhail Stefanovich, C – 7.5 C
4. (18) Tyler Bozak, C – 7.5 C
5. (6) Viktor Stalberg, LW – 7.5 C
6. (4) Jimmy Hayes, RW – 7.0 C
7. (NR) Kenny Ryan, RW – 7.0 C
8. (NR) Jesse Blacker, D – 7.0 C
9. (5) Chris DiDomenico, C – 7.5 D
10. (NR) Christian Hanson, RW – 6.5 B
11. (9) James Reimer, G – 7.0 C
12. (8) Dale Mitchell, RW – 6.5 C
13. (NR) Jerry D’Amigo, LW – 6.5 C
14. (14) Phil Oreskovic, D – 6.0 B
15. (16) Jerome Flaake, LW – 6.5 C
16. (11) Matt Frattin, RW – 7.0 D
17. (13) Joel Champagne, C – 6.0 C
18. (NR) Carl Gunnarsson, D – 6.0 C
19. (NR) Robert Slaney, LW – 6.0 C
20. (NR) Jamie Devane, LW – 6.0 D
#18 is interesting.
I guess there was a misunderstanding about picks. I’m suggesting, add a 5/6/7 rounder with Poni if we get a 1st. Some people think a 2nd for Poni is not enough so I sweetened the pot a little to get a low 1st round pick. You mentioned Dale Mitchell. That’s a name I was thinking of instead of Paradis but I don’t know the prospects very well as I’ve been out of the country for a lot of the last 5 years and couldn’t follow even the Leafs much. Maybe a good thing. My guess is, Dale Mitchell wouldn’t interest the Pens. If people think Tangradi + 2nd isn’t enough for Poni then I guess they don’t like Tangradi that much. As I said before I don’t know how good he is. If he’s a good prospect then I think a 1st + Tangradi is too much to hope for. As I’ve said before, I’d like to get another big forward back for Poni, if possible.
What do you think happens to Frogren. Unless the Leafs can move some defensemen I can’t see Frogren resigning here. He probably wants to go somewhere he will play.
February 11th, 2010 at 5:57 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
I think the Librarian has always been underrated
February 11th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
I had a stripper and I got a nice lil STD out of the deal.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:02 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
yah i can see that….peels off the glasses….takes the clip out of her hair…..
February 11th, 2010 at 6:03 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas… except for Herpes… that shit will come back with you!
February 11th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
I didn’t really want to chime in on this conversation… but I have to agree on this one.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:10 pm
2 Minutes for Looking so Guru wrote:
Its a hard one not to get sucked into … I was at work all day and these guys are chatting about cougars and milfs and I had to behave myself Im at home now hehe no more behaving
February 11th, 2010 at 6:28 pm
modernhipster wrote:
your an idiot, you think that makes you cool? stick to talking about hockey, you sound like your still in high school
February 11th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
@ TuckerThomas
We all know what happens to ‘frogs’ when they’re around water….
February 11th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
apparently this post is dead…………
February 11th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
Holy shit where are all the pre Olympic trades that were supposed to happen? there isn’t even a lot of rumours floating around … wtf
February 11th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
kap wrote:
Clearly, you’ve never seen her.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
Yeah it’s dead. That’s why we’re talking about sluts.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Dominic Moore traded to the Habs for a second round pick?
February 11th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
Julie Sucks wrote:
TSN just reported Dominic Moore to Montreal for a 2nd pick.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:44 pm
kap wrote:
Like Jule Sucks said…have you seen her? (she looks like Elisabeth Shue)
Shit, are YOU the hubby? He was a faggotty Sens fan. TROLL!!! Go back to Ottawa.
PS: yes, it makes me cool.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
TSNBobMcKenzie
I can confirm Fla has traded centre Dominic Moore to Montreal for a second round draft in 2011, pending trade call with NHL.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
So Dominic Moore just got traded to the Habs for a second round draft pick!!!!
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=309829
He is on pace for 24 points in 71 games, -7, and 57 hits. Does this mean that Poni on pace for 55, +5, and 154 hits is worth much more? I’d have to assume so.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:48 pm
We let Dominic Moore walk last year, didn’t we? Wanted something stupid like 3 million? I guess he’s cheap but a 2nd? really?
February 11th, 2010 at 6:49 pm
modernhipster wrote:
We got a second rounder from Buffalo for him.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:49 pm
We got a second and a 4th or something for him.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:50 pm
That should increase the price tag on Ponikarovsky, wouldn’t it?
February 11th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
@ ingy56:
You’d think it would have to. If a third line center can get a second round pick then a top 6 big winger should be able to get higher, I’m sure the Leafs are pleased to see this deal.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
kb wrote:
I was looking at last years draft list and it said the second round pick the Leafs had came from Carolina. I am assuming Buffalo owned that pick and transferred it to Toronto for Moore. Burke selected Jesse Blacker with that pick.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
rustynail wrote:
The smallest team in the league just got smaller….ROFL
February 11th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
leafs_20 wrote:
At least a second and a prospect I would think.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:57 pm
Doc_yqx wrote:
…and softer.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:57 pm
@ ingy56:
thats the asking price for poni according to dregs
February 11th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
@ ingy56:
Even if we are sitting in 29th, I can’t believe we’re in such a good position to trade & dump. Moore getting a 2nd, forwards dropping like flies all over the league, etc.
I hope Whitney goes for a 1st & prospect (that’s their asking price) sooner rather than later. Now THAT will sweeten the pot for Poni.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
Darkjester wrote:
They should be able to get it now that the market has been set by Montreal.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:59 pm
ingy56 wrote:
Yep, exactly. It was a well-travelled pick. Carolina’s pick that was traded to Edmonton, and then finally to Buffalo.
February 11th, 2010 at 6:59 pm
leafs_20 wrote:
Finally! let the games begin!
February 11th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
@ modernhipster:
I’ve been hearing that Whitney wants an extension on his contract in exchange for waiving his NTC, he may not get it. I bet he goes and then comes back to Carolina like Glen Wesley did a few years ago.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
It’s probably just a rumour but I heard there were some knowledgeable hockey fans here at Maple Leaf Hot Sex. Can anyone tell me how the lottery works at the draft? Specifically, the teams that finish 6-10. Are they put in a lottery as well? Meaning if the Leafs finish 6th could Boston end up with the 10th pick, if they lose out in a lottery?
February 11th, 2010 at 7:03 pm
@ ingy56:
totally agree….maybe instead of smurfs….they should be smurfettes….she’s been around for years and has never got ‘any’
February 11th, 2010 at 7:05 pm
Garrett what Bill Waters was saying is look at the way he played in the swedish league and since he has been a leaf.
Bill thinks that Allaire has been a detriment to the Monsters development.
I agree with Bill that from the highlights from sweden he looked like and athletic type Goalie.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:09 pm
Bob is your uncle wrote:
I believe teams can only move up four spots, so the bottom five teams have the best odds . The remainder of the teams have fewer balls in the lottery based on their position. The bottom five teams have more balls in the can based on their order of finish. That should be clear as mud ,right? I believe if the Leafs finish 6th, the best Boston can do with that pick is 2nd overall.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
if moore got that….poni should get atleast a first and a good prospect, plus a 3rd…..maybe ship kabs, poni to boston for 2 firsts and a second…..
February 11th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
ingy56 wrote:
I can’t see us finishing better than 25th or 26th, even we do have a couple good streaks. I mean, Carolina is ahead of us by 2pts with a game in hand.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:16 pm
spots 6 to 10 stay the same i believe….it is just the top five…i cud be wrong…
February 11th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
A few points:
The Moore trade may not set the market. If other GMs view it as a serious overpayment, they will not be convinced to up the ante for Ponikarovsky. IMO a prospect only comes back with a draft pick for him if the Leafs agree to take on a contract … he is a pending UFA which will limit what teams will give up for him. Also, the deal won’t impact whether the 2nd rises to a first … teams will increase a 3rd to a 2nd, but increasing a 2nd to a 1st is an entirely different matter in an era where entry-level deals for talented players take on an increasing importance.
Speaking which … the one impact of the Moore trade may be Stempniak … a 2nd doesn’t seem so unreasonable now, does it?
Whitney will probably wind up in Buffalo, they are the one team interested in talking contract with him.
Dallas is in a tight spot with Turco … do they deal him with only minimal opportunity to see what Lehtonen can do? Seems more like a deal made with an eye toward letting Turco walk as a free agent, as opposed to trading him. But if the offer is good enough, maybe they take the risk; if so, Philadelphia is a good bet. I don’t buy the Chicago rumours for a second – Huet hasn’t been terrible and the Hawks don’t want to disrupt their great chemistry.
Tim Thomas – if he goes anywhere, Detroit is a good bet. The Wings should have enough to get into the playoffs, and despite Jimmy Howard’s great year they will prefer an experienced hand. Osgood’s days as a starter are done.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
derek wrote:
I think spot 10 could beat the odds and win the lottery, but they can only move up to the 6 slot. Then the order of finish would determine #1 overall etc. Teams can only move back one spot as well, so #6 would fall back to #7 if #10 won the lottery. Damn, that’s confusing.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:21 pm
2009: WHO GETS THE BALLS!? WHO GETS #1?
“The first 14 picks of the 2008 Entry Draft are determined by the NHL’s annual Draft Drawing, a weighted lottery system that is used to determine the order of selection. The 14 teams that do not qualify for the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs, or clubs that acquired those clubs’ 2009 first-round draft picks, participate in the drawing. The Club selected in the drawing may not move up more than four positions in the draft order, thus only the five Clubs with the fewest regular-season points have the opportunity to select first overall. No Club can move down more than one position as a result of the Draft Drawing.”
2006 Example: ‘BLUE BALLS’
The St. Louis Blues finished last and had a 25% chance of winning the lottery, second last Pittsburgh was at*18.8% and thrid last Chicago was at*14.2%.*
(25% = Team will hold 25% of a possible 1000 combinations that the four balls of the lottery machines spits out.)
“Fourteen balls, numbered 1 to 14, were placed in a lottery machine. The machine expelled four balls, forming a series of numbers. The four-digit series resulting from the expulsion of the balls was matched against a probability chart that divided the possible combinations among the 14 participating clubs. The chart showed that the Blues had been assigned the numbers (11-14-13-1) that were expelled.”
“The remaining teams had the following chances: 8.1%, 6.2%, 4.7%, 3.6%, 2.7%, 2.1%, 1.5%, 1.1%, 0.8% and 0.5%”
February 11th, 2010 at 7:22 pm
@ Garrett Bauman:
Good points Garrett. Isn’t Moore a pending UFA himself though?
February 11th, 2010 at 7:23 pm
@ Garrett Bauman:
I agree on pretty much all points. The only question I have is with the cap being such an important factor for now and the future, do UFA’s not have a significant benefit for those teams because they do come off the cap next year? I personally wouldn’t be surprised to see GM’s overpay for guys specifically because they are rentals and won’t cap strap them for next year.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:26 pm
ingy56 wrote:
Yes he is but he is only on a 1.1 annual cap so he is super cheap.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
rustynail wrote:
I hope he fired that agent of his!
February 11th, 2010 at 7:32 pm
ingy56 wrote:
One of the dumbest moves by a player in recent history maybe even any history.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:33 pm
rustynail wrote:
Could be trumped by Kovalchuk if he were to suffer a career-ending injury between now and when he signs a new deal.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
I would like to see Gus play a game for Sweden during the Olympics, maybe even get a shutout…
February 11th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
ingy56 wrote:
never thought of the kovalchuk scenario…..maybe if were lucky, he suffers career ending injury during the olympics…..screwing jersey and himself…..wouldnt want this to happen to anyone but the money he is demanding….he shud give his head a *&&^%%%$ shake……….
February 11th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
@ Tim Horton:
I would like to see Gus play a game for us tomorrow. Maybe even get a shutout. He should play tomorrow. Unless of course Allaire or RW have some concerns.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
Bob is your uncle wrote:
Gawd if Moore is worth a 2nd rounder – what is Poni’s worth?
Frogren? If he wants to sign for .500 then resign him, he could be a useful backup. If he wants more – “See ya later!” Then again haven’t seen how he’s played with the Marlies! You?
February 11th, 2010 at 7:41 pm
@ ingy56:
Sure is. Hence the notion of GMs seeing it as a gross overpayment, and not necessarily offering up any more for Poni.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
leafericson wrote:
Wilber is an idiot. Any one that looks at youtube video clips to determine how good a player is deserves to be called a fool. I guess someone should call in and ask Bill if by the same token Wallin being a scorer in the SEL (I think he was 2nd in points or something) has lost his scoring touch because of…? What Bill never got and still doesn’t can best be illustrated by Garrett’s latest blog entry. To make claims like he has calling out Allaire sounds to me like someone is jealous or something. Sorry Bill there is a reason why you are not in the game anymore and maybe one day (I doubt it) you’ll realize. Do us all a favor and disappear into obscurity.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
I’m With Ya on that one…and there’s a good chance that Gus will see action,I’m sure every team will give both their goalies a game each to see who’s HOT,
February 11th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Garrett Bauman wrote:
Haha, thanks. I guess we have your evaluation of that deal. I’m reading it is a 2011 pick, I guess Montreal has plans of heading up the standings by then. I know another team that had the same notion.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
I just read the news involving Moore.
We thought we were lucky to spring out a 2nd from Buff when he was playing GOOD. Now he’s playing not so good and still got a 2nd…
I don’t get it.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
derek wrote:
I’m sure he carries disability insurance on top of what the league offers, but surely not $111 million worth.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
@ ingy56:
Thanks. Your right though, it’s clear as mud. I’m trying to figure out how far a team could drop in position. Just googled it, but it’s still not clear. I guess I could reverse engineer last years draft lottery based on bottom 14 teams points. Maybe a Harvard degree does help a GM these days.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
@ Grahamzky:
I have the Leafs draft from last year up and I see they drafted Eric Knodel in the 5th round. He is a 6’6″ 216 lb 19 year old defenseman. If he works out to be a player and so does Aulie, the Leafs could have a huge defense in a few years with Phaneuf and Schenn.
February 11th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
Bob is your uncle wrote:
Check modernhipster’s post just above, I think we are in agreement that a team can only drop one position, but can gain four.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:04 pm
Looks like the smurfs may be missing Gainey sooner rather than later. Who would have thunk it?
February 11th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
@ ingy56:
Yeah I saw a chart somewhere that looked like a team could only drop 1 position.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:15 pm
the good thing about poni is the amount of teams interested.. could be more then the 10 confirmed.. with guys like dreger saying that is the team that jumps off the page. Burke wants a 2nd and a prospect or a roster player for poni per tsn.
The best option i think is for burke to pursue tangradi. The kid is gonna be a beast.. and while not the power winger next year will be soon… he has some milan lucic in him.. while more offensively skilled at least at the junior level. At 6’3 220 pounds he could very well turn into burkes guy… matter of fact he was, burke drafted him in 2007. He is highly toutted i believe though garnering a 8D on hockeys future. Maybe dropping the 2nd to a 3rd rounder… as tangradi may join the line up next year and was picked 42nd. Pits had Caputi who fits the same mold and has already some nhl games under his belt.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:17 pm
Pierre Gauthier = Bob Gainey 2.0
February 11th, 2010 at 8:21 pm
daverleafsfan wrote:
1.Eric Tangradi 8.0B
2.Luca Caputi 7.0C
February 11th, 2010 at 8:23 pm
They rank Nazem Kadri as an 8.0C and Stalberg and Bozak at 7.5C
February 11th, 2010 at 8:24 pm
WHY is Carolina winning! Teams just do not want to give Toronto a break.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
oops was going off memory on the ranking…
but still do you think tangradi is obtainable for poni… even straight up.. or is he a untouchable over there.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:26 pm
Tim Horton wrote:
Because they are healthy again and they are pulling a Leafs … you know, when you are supposed to tank but all of sudden your 4th line starts scoring goals like wildfire and your backup goalie starts playing like Brodeur
February 11th, 2010 at 8:27 pm
daverleafsfan wrote:
Would you give up Kadri for Poni? cause thats basically what you are saying, we might have to sweeten the pot a bit.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:31 pm
long_suffering_leaf_fan wrote:
If I am going for back to back Stanley cups… maybe.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
@leafsericson:
Aside from the obvious fact that the SEL is a vastly different league than the NHL (larger rinks = emphasis on finesse over physical play = less players driving to the net = less crease traffic, not to mention talent levels) …
… yeah, okay, I guess the argument has merit. :S
Point is, the kid has talent. That much we know. But – an adaptation of style is required for long-term NHL success. And the Leafs (esp. Allaire) believe that he can make the transition. However, to expect that overnight is ludicrous. Which was, really, the central argument I was making. At least one more season has to be given, before an adequate judgment on his future can be made.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
not so sure how high managment is on him.. he does only have 10 goals in the ahl and caputi is ahead of him in development and is a big boy.
just saying they need help on the wing, and they wont have the funds or the want to extend ray whitney.. so poni is really their only other option.
Just looks like the type of young gun we need in our system as hayes is still 2 years away.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Just last year the penguins got Kunitz and Tangradi for Ryan Whitney, so I think he might be overvalued by fans a bit.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:39 pm
@ daverleafsfan:
If I’m Pitt, I’d rather give a pick whose career potential is unknown (no way of knowing who will be available in that spot at the time of the trade) than a prospect with whom I am already familiar.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
@ Garrett Bauman:
That is assuming, as Pitt management, I like the prospect and that I get a choice.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
what are the chances that burkie gets the 2nd and a prospect for poni… im overly confused about value at the deadline.. it keeps flucuating each year. All i know is that 1st are overly coveted because of the entry level and we wont be getting one for poni.
Seems that the sellers this year dont have much to give in terms of offensive players.. its really only kariya, whitney, and poni.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
@ daverleafsfan:
A 2nd is guaranteed. The question is whether anyone is willing to go higher for a pending UFA. I don’t think that happens unless the Burke/Nonis/Poulin/Fletcher team takes a bad contract back.
I could be wrong, if so I will be VERY happy to acknowledge that.
February 11th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
On a side note has anyone heard anything further about Mike Van Ryn other than he started skating?
February 11th, 2010 at 9:44 pm
Garrett Bauman wrote:
Right, but Burke has made it known he is willing to take on a bad contract and bury it- although with Komi on LTIR he doesn’t have to.
February 12th, 2010 at 12:24 am
ingy56 wrote:
Build your team around the defense they always say! Aulie from his Junior days with the Wheaties was a big (of course), solid, defensive defenseman. Not sure about Knodel – but I believe you can expect Aulie to develop into a NHL shutdown pairing on defense, with limited offensive ability. Great pickup by the Leafs with not much in the system, besides Blacker, on the back end.
Good quality kid – with some upside! Low maintenance player!
Phaneuf, Schenn, Aulie, Knodel (?), Blacker, Gunnarsson and let’s not forget Komisarek – I still think he will prove to be a valuable addition – tough, leader-like! It’s up front we need help!
February 12th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
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