Cam Ward Scalps 'Hawks: Hurricanes 4, Blackhawks 2
by Bob Wage on Jan 31, 2010 1:19 AM EST
143 comments
The Chicago Blackhawks shook off any jetlag they might have had after the first period and outshot the Carolina Hurricanes by large margins in the second, (16-6) and third periods, (15-8), but Carolina goalie Cam Ward stayed hot as he stopped 39 of 41 shots and helped his team to earn their fourth straight victory as the Canes beat the 'Hawks 4-2, Saturday night at the RBC.
Ward has now played in 21 straight games and in the last few he's been performing like he thinks he's in the playoffs. During the Canes four game winning streak, Ward has 129 saves on 134 shots for a save percentage of .963
Some of last night's saves were spectacular. For instance, near the end of the game Patrick Kane had an open, point blank try at the doorstep and Ward robbed him. Earlier in the game there was a puck sliding along the goal line which Ward was also able to keep out until the ref blew his whistle.
Nothing was easy for the netminder in this matchup as he was able to successfully defend against numerous odd man rushes.
The Canes battled the visitors pretty evenly in the opening period. With just 10 seconds left on the clock, Sergei Samsonov knocked in a loose puck behind Cristobal Huet to make the score 1-0. Credit should also go to Tom Kostopoulos who had crashed the crease on the play because he initially got the puck past the Chicago goalie.
Marian Hossa was able to tie the game though, just six minutes into the second.
The old Hurricanes might have crumbled after being tied in the past, but not these Hurricanes. Later in the period, Eric Staal and Jussi Jokinen put on a passing display as they skated around in the Chicago zone. Eventually, Staal would pass cross ice to Jokinen and the Finn would score his 17th goal of the season, tying his previous career best.
The Canes are 11-1-3 when Jokinen scores a goal.
Andrew Ladd scored one against his ex-mates to tie things up again in the third. Cam Ward said he might hear it from "Ladder" after the game, but at least "Wardo" had the last laugh because his team got the win. The Blackhawks were dominating the game at this point and had held the puck in the Carolina zone most of the period.
But once again the Canes had an answer for the Blackhawks' goal. This time Brandon Sutter would crash the net and tip in a Chad LaRose shot. The goal proved to be the game-winner, the first of the season for the 20 year old.
Paul Maurice had nothing but good things to say about the "Sutter line". He mentioned earlier that the success of that line opens things up for the other lines, and that proved to be the case again last night.
The Canes closed out the scoring just 26 seconds later when Matt Cullen tipped in another goal, this time off the shot of Tom Kostopoulos.
Chicago would put on a lot of pressure in the Carolina zone from then on, but were unable to solve Ward and the Canes held on to the 4-2 win.
There will not be a practice Sunday as the team is scheduled to leave at noon for Edmonton and start their four game road trip.
Game Notes:
- Kudos to the 6,896 hearty souls who attended the game. The roads were a mess but thankfully they were passable. There was a substitute PA announcer for the game and a sub anthem singer as well. Our friend and regular anthem singer, Katherine Fritsch, had a sledding accident and could not make it to the game. We wish her the very best and hope that she feels better soon.
- Not only has Cam Ward been hot in recent games, the team's scoring has picked up as well. The Canes have scored 18 goals during their four game winning streak and 25 goals in their last six games, winning five of those six.
- Eric Staal continued his scoring streak with an assist and now has points in eight straight games. He has scored 38 points in the 28 games since his return from injury. Staal is now tied with Jeff O'Neill for fifth in franchise history in assists, (218).
- Jussi Jokinen currently ranks second in scoring among Finnish born players in the NHL. Too bad that is not good enough to make the Olympics. (I quickly asked Jokinen in the dressing room if he had heard anything new from Team Finland and he said no).
- Andrew Alberts helped out with two assists on the night. He also had three hits to add on to his team-leading total of 155.
- Tom Kostopoulos also had two assists. He has been all that was advertised and has been a consistent performer this season.
- Brett Carson led the team with five blocked shots and played another solid game. I asked him how he has been able to fit in so well since being called up to help out on the big club. "I have been playing a lot with Alberts and he and I are pretty similar players. I'm able to read off him pretty well now and try to keep my game simple, and let the other players try to make plays". When asked about the blocked shots he said, "Chicago has a great team and they were really cycling the puck there, especially in the third period. If I can get in front of "Wardo" and block a few, I'm certainly going to try".
- Sergei Samsonov's score gives him three goals in the last three games.
- Carolina finished 0-2 on the powerplay but held Chicago to 0-3.
- The team was credited with 26 hits led by Aaron Ward, Andrew Alberts, and Chad LaRose who had three each.
- Matt Cullen was 9-11 in the faceoff circle for 81%. The Canes were 67% overall.
Below is a video of the Jussi Jokinen post game interview.
And coach Paul Maurice in his post game press conference.
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Great game to watch.
Watched this at home tonight and it was a great game. :)
If Ray Whitney does not retire a Carolina Hurricane, I'll go egg Jim Rutherfords car and TP his house.
perilous...grace
We had an awesome time at the game. The drive in was easy. The drive home was not. I took 55 back into FV instead of 401…bad choice. I did a 360 and a hockey power slide into a snow drift…had to drive the opposite direction and turn around to keep going. No damage…just a scare for my 12 year old. It was his first near miss in a car. I hope everyone made it home safely.
THE QUEST FOR TAYLOR HALL...or maybe Seguin..possibly Fowler...from 30th to the top!!! OR MAYBE 27TH OR SO....
I’m a little surprised at the shot total considering it was such a fast paced back and forth game. Canes are starting to make headlines and there is even quiet rumblings about getting back in the playoff picture. As far fetched as it is, its fun to consider, especially when 3 of their better players close to returning from the IR.
Say they win their next 5 and get within maybe 6 points of the 8 seed, does JR reconsider the sell at all cause mentality?
I am calling Aaron Ward out........
That was the worst performance by any Hurricane defenseman all year. Horrible. He was caught out of position twice and turned the puck over 4 times. He was not mentally there. Why not? I don’t get it. Why are you holding back? I know you don’t suck this badly. Get your head out of your a$$. Do your job.
Maybe it’s the difference between seeing him on the ice or seeing only what’s on the TV feed? I thought AWard was actually looking alright last night. He did make a few flubs but we saw more than one occasion where he did some good stuff.
by Raccoon Fink on Jan 31, 2010 11:29 AM EST up reply actions
Aaron Ward
Aaron Ward is consistently a wretched defenseman under the Maurice/Francis/Rowe system. His play in general has improved over the last ten games; but he can’t skate well enough to maintain his assignments. I think it is the kind of situation where if one puts the focus lens on Aaron Ward for an entire game, his lack of ability becomes painfully obvious.
Aaron Ward is playing now, I think, to try to get traded; so he is at least giving some degree of effort. As far as I am concerned, he can’t get traded away fast enough.
I don’t see why Boston wouldn’t want him back. They have a much different system (Called sitting next to the goaltender and clear the puck when Tim Thomas gives up a rebound on every shot because he sucks) and he would probably even be able to jump back in next to Chara and be a top-4 guy. If we could get a second rounder (Boston has like 7 first/second round picks in the next 2 drafts) I’d do it.
2nd rounder? Did you mean 7th? We’d be lucky if a team claimed him on re-entry waivers at this point.
Spector had a rumour linking Ward to Boston.
by Killswitch on Jan 31, 2010 2:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
We need to make a thread on him with only positive things said. Try and get his value up. Seriously-watching the othere team’s TV feed, I have heard of him as trade bait and talk of how well he is doing for the last month. After the poor start in Carolina we see everything through a narrow anti-lens, other teams are more into how good he is. And I do think he will be a good addition to a playoff team, he knows how to play playoff hockey, definitely more so than babchuk last year. Also, at this point the differences in salary are negligible.
Are players paid per game or per day?
I agree, we as fans, over analyze every play that happens and tend to lose the big picture mentality that an outsider may have but the guys already went through waivers with no takers and his stats are mediocre. Im not saying a team wouldnt take a chance considering the lack of D-men on the market, but definitely not for a 2nd rounder.
The main reason he probably wasnt picked up off waivers was no team has the room to add his salary that early in the year for an underperforming, older player.
Already seen fond postings by Boston fans of maybe getting good ’ole Aaron Ward back for the playoffs.
They have nothing but positive images, so let’s keep the bashing down so they stay in the dark. LOL!
Seriously, there’s nothing like putting an iso-cam on a player at the arena to expose flaws (Aaron) or to see just how solid in positioning/execution a player can be (Brandon), so the in-arena observation at least has more data behind it (putting bias aside) since it catches off-camera decisions and executions.
Aaron was hitting and blocking shots last night, so it’s more like judging was there more harm than good when assessing his performance, because there was both.
Aaron Ward and the Iso-Cam
I can’t comment about the iso-cam for the Blackhawks game because I was out of town and was watching using slingbox. In general, my impression from the game was that Aaron Ward disaster rating (bone-headed plays versus positive plays) was not as terrible as the start of the season but was below his last five or six games. Aaron Ward did lose coverage enough times to have me cursing at the computer screen and I really don’t do that often.
I don’t know what the other two players did in yesterday’s games but I sure hope it was spectacular because the third star certainly was .
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
It’s called… They both played on CBC Hockey Night In Canada (also aired on NHL Network).
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 9:02 AM EST up reply actions
Iginla also got to play the oilers who packed up ship a while ago.
5 seconds left.
Do you believe in miracles?
YES!!
by C-Leaguer on Jan 31, 2010 9:19 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Iginla had a “Gordie Howe Hat trick” , fighting Souray. Who fractured his wrist in the process. The Oilers sound like the Canes in the first week of November. Should be an interesting game tomorrow night.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 10:44 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t know if people here get to see many of the Oiler’s games lately but they look just pitiful. They actually look like they are throwing games, although sadly I think that is just because of how god-awful they are. A first overall pick would not even make them a playoff team. There is years of work that needs to be done there.
I just found a link from Edmonton, with funny “Oilers” jokes, to put up in my C&C later. They are a mess.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
Iginila was his usual dream Captain self last night, with two goals, two assists, and agreeing to fighting Souray for a perceived wronging when he put Souray out for umpteen games with a concussion earlier in the season.
Souray fractured his hand in the fight. Could be season-ending and he was the subject of many a trade rumor.
Good interview, too. What a Captain.
ESPN daily stat leaders – puts Cam at 4th behind D.Sedin, Iginla and Burrows.
Also, there were 10 games yesterday – that’s a lot of hockey. I’m waiting for tomorrow’s 3 NHL stars of the week. Cam will be there.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
My sight line wasn’t good when Cam went down for the save because Versteeg was in my way but I did get the moment before when Kane still had the puck on his stick.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
Wow, awesome picture. A very sharp action shot!
"Last season we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure was that I couldn't think of any place else to play." - Harry Neale
by hotchipsnsalsa on Jan 31, 2010 8:33 AM EST up reply actions
what a shocker
Aaron Ward standing there….watching. Cam saving Aaron. This was actually Aaron’s best positioning of the game. This is clearly one of the veterans that hasn’t bought in to Mo’s system. Go somewhere else and peddle your hockey “expertise”.
Sell out?
John said after the game that 17,000+ tickets were sold for the game. I’m sure with walk up sales it would’ve been a sold out game if not for the weather. Would’ve been awesome for a 29th team to sell out a game. Staal and Jussi line should not be touched EVER.
I'm Jim Rutherfords assitant and decision maker. -Canescup
28th :)
All above is my personal opinion.
Thanks,
Andy_S
by Andy_S on Jan 31, 2010 8:55 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
+1
Keep Jussi and Staal together! Jussi is the closest thing to a plamaking center/wing that Staal has had in years. They seem to have great chemistry (Although it seems Jussi just has great playmaking vision no matter who he plays with). Once Whitney is traded and Ruutu comes back… Jussi-Staal-Ruutu sounds even more dangerous in my opinion.
Jussi is Stall’s neo-Stiller. We thought Eric was missing Cole. Turns out it was #61. He and Jussi are magic – they seem perfectly matched.
Anyone notice that Mo’s quit tweaking the lines? – for the first time since he got here – it seems like they’ve been about the same for nearly a month. Everyone’s getting better at doing their job.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 10:24 AM EST up reply actions
OMG – * Staal * (I hate that!)
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
Anyone notice that Mo’s quit tweaking the lines?
I noticed that too and am beyond pleased that he has stopped. It’s paying dividends.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
I wonder if Maurice changed his game-plan that has worked so well this whole year for a reason or if JR had to come down and teach him how to coach for the 100th time this season.
I really think he was searching for some chemistry and with the revolving door he was dealing with it took a long time. Theyre somewhat healthy now and he’s found a few lines that are clicking. The odd man rushes are surprising, although most are due to trying to skate the puck in through 3 defenders.
Remember last year, Mo said that for the team to be competitive/win, they would need to put up 3 goals minimum, that theory has worked again for the last 4 because of goaltending more than Mo’s perceived defensive mindset. They still need to tighten up Defensively, play smarter with the puck, score 3 and ride Cam to continue the streak.
Anyone notice that Mo’s quit tweaking the lines?
Ha.. if he is reading (and hopefully he is on a flight to Edmonton) he will surely shuffle the lines 15 times per game throughout the rest of the season…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:29 AM EST up reply actions
I hope Corvo comes back soon and it will be right decision made then
All above is my personal opinion.
Thanks,
Andy_S
by Andy_S on Jan 31, 2010 8:54 AM EST via mobile reply actions
The scary thing is that I’m almost willing to surrender all reason and believe it might happen……
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
Wouldn’t it be a great come back? That would be an understatement and it’s great to see them finally playing well. You can tell they are having fun, again. I know a lot of folks want a high draft pick, but I always believe you have to play for now so I would rather they continues on this surge because the future is so unpredictable.
"Last season we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure was that I couldn't think of any place else to play." - Harry Neale
by hotchipsnsalsa on Jan 31, 2010 10:04 AM EST up reply actions
I like the fact the Hurricanes are playing the type of aggressive, intelligent, hounding the puck hockey that to me defines Hurricanes hockey at its best. If Maurice/Francis/Rowe are accountable for the first thirty games, they have earned the right to be considered as part of the reason the team bounced back.
My view continues to be that Aaron Ward, Brind’Amour, Wallin (now to a far lesser degree) and Yelle (now to a far lesser degree) were drags on the team. I remain puzzled why Wallin takes some ill-timed penalties that only Aaron Ward would be expected to take.
Obviously, Staal and C. Ward are playing the way the Hurricanes need in order to win. I am hoping that Jim Rutherford will be able to avoid the temptation to trade Hurricanes players who are synergistic to the team while trading or not re-signing players who can’t skate with the rest of the NHL.
FWIW
Last year the Blues were last in the West after 57 games (24-26-7) and went 17-5-3 to finish 6th, so it’s not like it’s never been done. We’re farther back, but I say “why not us too?”. I’m with Killswitch and KenRab above – say we get 6 pts in those 4 games next week. I think it’s enough to have JR think twice about who to deal, but we could get some returns/draft picks and still sneak into the playoffs.
I started this thought on the game thread but didn’t state it too well there: what are the chances that Team Canada “discovers” some nagging injury to Luongo or Fleury and gives Cam a call?
If it's Gleason, it has to be good.
Tripp Tracy seemed convinced last night after the game that if the ’Canes could get 7 points in the standings before the Olympic break that they might have a chance…..
I think he was a little rattled though…. He had just asked Matt Cullen to give him a ride home (and was subsequently denied)…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
Why is Tripp such a wimp about the weather, didn’t he come from the north? Or did he move down here before really driving in snow any? (like me-first time out I put my car off the road (back in college at Clemson) luckily I was just out screwing around and no damage)
He drives a Jag. Doubt it’s very reliable in the snow.
Sees the world through ruuu-colored glasses...
Sisu
by LTD on Feb 1, 2010 9:42 AM EST up reply actions
hey.....they do have a chance.
They may need some help but they finished that strong last year. They just beat the best team in the league. Washington will be the team they have to beat to get in. The next 7 games are winnable. After that, it gets tough. Stranger things have happened. JR…what are you thinking? Have some confidence ….. maybe the first half was a perfect storm and the second half will be all about breaks our way. All the hurt guys are returning and they are well rested. I have hope. Let’s see how close they can get to the playoffs.
I would agree with this however I think our defense has looked just as bad the past 4 games as it has all season. The only real difference is Cam Ward has been just lights-out. How many scoring chances did the Hawks have last night? I think Forslund said 15 or so??
If Cam could play like that every game we’d win the Cup every year. I just wouldn’t expect any human being to continue being that consistently good.
Well, I think the defense has improved greatly. But I agree it’s still has a long ways to go. Remember the Rangers peppered Cam as well. This streak is all about Cam and Eric.
by drifterscape on Jan 31, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
Woah…. Who came up w/ that graphic?
If I got a headache reading those numbers…. surely someone got a headache crunching those numbers…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:38 AM EST up reply actions
This was a very intimate affair for the fans and RBC staff. I might have had to walk from the 3rd level down to the first for concessions (since the RBC was short staffed) but everyone there was extremely nice and the Breyer ice cream guy gave me 2 Scoops!
The game was extremely exciting and Cam played out of his mind. I think all the fans loved going out in the snow for this event. It is definitely something I’ll never forget.
Why didn’t you stay on the first level?
"Last season we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure was that I couldn't think of any place else to play." - Harry Neale
by hotchipsnsalsa on Jan 31, 2010 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
Trading Deadline
You can tell things are going well when the team plays poorly and still wins,especially against a top team like the Blackhawks. Cam Ward saved the defense many a time.
The question is will the Canes clean house? I dont know when the deadline is but I am sure Cullen will be gone. Rutherford has some tough decisions ahead if the Canes continue to play well.
The big problem...
Really if you watch that game again, Gleason had a bad turnover but Aaron Ward just was terrible. Get him out of there put in Corvo and Money…….
I actually think that A. Ward has been playing a TON better lately then he was at the beginning of the season.
Look at our penalty kill- Ward is on that.
I’ve also noticed him pinching up and keeping the puck in the offensive zone a TON lately.
by packpigskinfan25 on Jan 31, 2010 10:26 AM EST up reply actions
I agree with this.
I’ve seen him playing better than the first half of the season. Granted he does turn over pucks – but then so does Joni…and I still think Joni is our best defenseman.
If Ray Whitney does not retire a Carolina Hurricane, I'll go egg Jim Rutherfords car and TP his house.
by thebl4ckd0g on Jan 31, 2010 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Absolutely. All of our defensemen have had some bonehead moves lately. But that is true of every team, and we have finally started taking advantage when the opposite side does something stupid as well.
I think the team has started trying harder to recover when this happens, and that is part of the difference in our play.
Come on dude we won a very entertaining game! At least find something positive about it…
"Last season we couldn't win at home and we were losing on the road. My failure was that I couldn't think of any place else to play." - Harry Neale
by hotchipsnsalsa on Jan 31, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
It was a fun game to watch....
I am thinking do they have a chance to reel off a streak that can get them into the playoffs…answer yes …without Aaron Ward………..
The positives...
Sutter was great!! Andrew Alberts was awesome…bone crunching…message sending hits. Samasnov was outstanding….Cullen steady. Eric Staal hard working….actually Aaron Ward was the only stain on a very nice effort. Defense needs to be tighter at times but overall, nice game.
Trading Buzz
So it seems that Toronto is virtually locked into making at least one big trade today with more in the works. This could be good, once someone breaks the ice and the frenzy starts we will finally start seeing some trading action!
I’m excited because
1) We have a lot of assets that other teams want
2) JR is a great GM when it comes to trading
3) We are one of very few sellers this year (Us and the Oilers only really)
4) In my opinion we easily have the pieces in place to be a real fast, young, explosive team next year. I don’t think next year will be a rebuilding year.
Update
Toronto holding a press conference at 11:30. Let the trading begin!
Darren Dreger is going nuts with the magnitude of it. Some say Giguere might be part of it with Hiller getting the big extension yesterday. Wondering if NHL Network will cover it.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah after blowing a 3 goal lead last night to lose 5-3 to the Canucks last night it was imminent that heads were going to roll in Toronto. Giguere definitely makes sense for them as a starter and mentor to their future goalie Jonas Gustavsson. Anaheim certainly would be happy to get rid of him.
The only part that doesn’t make sense to me (and is why JS Giguere hasn’t been traded before) is that he has a NTC and a sick child. In the past he has been adamant about having world-class care for his kid and he would not accept a trade to any location that couldn’t offer that.
Toronto’s a BIg City, not like he’d be going to Moose Jaw or something.
by drifterscape on Jan 31, 2010 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
Toronto is in Canada….
Canada invented Obama-care…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
I’m just saying…. Not trying to get into a political debate….
but if I had a sick child (as JS Gaguere does) I would rather have him/her receiving treatment in Anaheim california… or Chicago… or New York… or RDU….(where you KNOW that it will be treated properly) than taking a gamble on the Canadian health care system….
You don’t see people going to Canada for health care… but a lot of them sure do come here…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:46 AM EST up reply actions
You guessing or have you seen something?
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 11:15 AM EST up reply actions
Phaneuf to the Maple Leafs
Wow, didn’t see that coming.
Attendance
There were a lot more people than just 7k last night at the game. The lower bowl was easily half full. Upper, just about empty.
I’m betting that was an initial estimate during the first period. After the first intermission, there were easily 9k, and by the end of the game, easily 10k.
The team noticed – and commented on how great it was that everyone made the effort.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
The Streak
Edmonton has lost 13 games in a row. If we beat them Monday, they will tie our horrible 14 game losing streak.
by PackPride17 on Jan 31, 2010 11:28 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Good, Cam plays even better under pressure.
by drifterscape on Jan 31, 2010 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
sucks for phaneuf
he has gone from huge market to huge market and he will be expected to be the savior in toronto.
I was really praying that he would go to the Rangers…. so that he could kill Sean Avery and John Tortorella could curse about it to the media….
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 31, 2010 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
NHL.com says Toronto has traded Voskala to ANA for Giguere and a 1st round pick ( to make up for the one they sent to Boston for Kessel)
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
Here’s the full deal between Calgary and Toronto
DarrenDreger
Phaneuf, Sjostrom and Auley to Toronto for Hagman, Stajan, Mayers and white!!
5 minutes ago from mobile web
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
To me that sounds like nothing for Phaneuf. Dion is a franchise defenseman, despite his off-ice antics.
I was positive either Kaberle, Nazem Kadri, or Luke Schenn would have to be going the other way.
Meh,
The Flames just let you know who the real franchise defensemen are in Calgary.
Phaneuf is over rated.
by Iggy Reilly on Jan 31, 2010 12:25 PM EST up reply actions
I think not enough for Phaneuf
I don’t think I would make those trades; but maybe Calgary wanted UFAs so they could mix and match and trade down the line. Basically, sounds like Calgary wanted at almost all costs to get rid of Phaneuf. Generally, I think trading franchise players for numbers of role players doesn’t work. Franchise players for #1 draft choices and two stars might work.
We play the Flames Wednesday – wonder how that’ll go now?
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
Phaneuf deal sounds sort of crazy good for Toronto; but maybe I am just confused. Also, why would Anaheim give a first round pick and Giguere for Voskala? I wouldn’t have made either trade.
Anaheim needed to unload GIguere’s salary. To anybody that would take him.
by drifterscape on Jan 31, 2010 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
No First Round Pick from Anaheim; inaccurate report in the bloggoshere
The trade at least makes a little more sense with Giguere for Voskala and Blake.
A lot happening in the last 24 hours here. First off, two people got robbed yesterday: Patrick Kane by Cam Ward and Me by the snow keeping me from this game. Would have loved to have been there. Possibly one of the best games and most exciting to see this year. This team is playing great right now, and it gives me dome pause as to start trading people now.
As for those trades that happened today, this is the beginning of the snowball. Toronto did make out like a bandit, trading average players from a seemingly elite defenseman, and getting a first rounder and Giguere for Vesa Toskala (I think). And I only thought JR could swindle other GM’s easily.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
Trade Partner
I went to the game last night and kept an eye on our most rumored trade possibities, Cam Barker, Kris Versteeg, and my personal favorite Dustin Byfuglien.
C.Barker didn’t show much good or bad and it’s easy to see why B’Hawk fans would be down on him compared to the speedy D.Keith.
K.Versteeg’s listed size is the same as LaRose or Whitney, but he plays with most of Chad’s strength and some of Whitney’s skill.
DustinB.(I don’t want to spell that name ever again) is quick enough and has some skill. He’s not just a big body to plant in the crease.
I won’t pretend to know what Chicago might do re: trading considering their current success, chemistry, 2 forwards coming off IR, and goalie worries. But I would be OK with Cullen for Barker, Whitney for Versteeg, Whitney + for Dustin.
John Jaeckel (Hawks writer) reported that the Hawks were interested in making a trade for Wallin. Apparently they called JR and proposed a trade, however JR wanted a young roster player in return (Barker, Versteeg, or Byfuglien). After hearing this the Blackhawks agreed if we threw in a specific prospect, to which JR replied he “would have to get back to them.”
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/John-Jaeckel/Hurricane-Trade-Winds-Blowing/128/25872
It probably helped some of the guys values that we put a beating on them last night.
I personally doubt Jim Rutherford has any interest in trading Albany prospects. I am convinced he has diamonds in the rough in Boychuk, Bowman, and Dalpe in particular. Rutherford ultimately can get what he really needs in the draft or the UFAs if he has to.
You have to give something to get something… The way I see it, Wallin is worthless to us. I seriously doubt he will be re-signed this off-season, we aren’t making the playoffs, and I’d rather see McBain or Rodney up here anyway.
If you look at it that way then it more boils down to a prospect for a solid, young, NHL roster player. I’m not talking about Boychuk or Dalpe. But in my opinion… Bowman or Matthias Lindstrom or Brian Doumolin straight up for one of Versteeg/Byfuglien/Barker sounds worth it.
I agree that the prospects are vitally important to the organization. My only concern is with the amount of wingers, particularly left wingers in the system. Someone is going to be left out and trading one of them for the right player should be considered.
Let’s look at the LW position for next season.
Samsonov – under contract, will be in the NHL.
Whitney – if resigned, will be the top line LW.
Tlusty – solid play so far, has good chemistry with Sutter, probably in the NHL.
Dwyer – many think he could play center on the 4th line – its possible, but his faceoff % is horrible. We kills penalties, fits well in the 4th line LW position.
Jokinen – could play many positions, if Ray is not resigned – he would probably be Staal’s LW.
Boychuk – could get shot in NHL next season, but it depends on how things shake out.
Bowman – probably going to spend another year in the A. Will that piss him off or effect his development?
Terry – will spend another season in the A.
Lindstrom – still a year or two away from competing for a job.
1st Draft Pick – Many of the players the Canes might be looking at are LWers including Hall, Connolly, Tarasenko, Kabanov, and Niederriter.
That’s at least 6 NHL ready or borderline NHL ready LW’s. I’m just saying that if the right deal comes along, one of those prospects could/should be considered in a deal.
I’ve been one of those that keeps gently pointing out that we have lots and lots of LW’s in the system right now.
You’re absolutely correct. If we get value back in a position in which we are weak, then we should perhaps listen to discussions about one of our LW’s. Which one depends on the buyer’s needs.
Immediate help and willing to keep that help? Maybe Samsonov (under contract through next year for $2.8M). I’m hoping Jokinen is considered untouchable for next year.
Immediate help, but need it to be rental in nature? Whitney, of course, but take a number, leave offer, and we’ll get back to you.
Salary dumping and want to keep your roster spot open, so looking for a prospect? Bowman (who I am hugely high upon, mind you) might make sense, but you better be bringing value for him, because have you seen the kid?!?
We’re rich in LW’s. Dealing one or more might make sense.
I know what you’re saying. If I was to get rid of one, it would be Samsonov. He has been hot lately and has skill, but I’m not a big fan of his. It is though, who other teams would want. Jussi, Tlusty, and Dwyer are keepers to me. We should trade Ray and make every effort to resign him during the offseason. Lindstrom would be tradable to me, if a position of need was coming back. I’m not going to be popular for this, but IF choosing a tradable player between Boychuk and Bowman. I would keep Bowman. I think he will turn out to be the better pro and I think you could get a better player back in a trade for Boychuk. Let me say again, IF I had to trade one of those players.
by PackPride17 on Jan 31, 2010 4:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Interesting. You might be right on the Bowman over Boychuk on the keepers list.
Hopefully the eyes of the org have been watching both and grading appropriately in case hard choices must be made.
Me, I want ’em both, but fitting them both into the lineup may realistically be tough.
Good problem to have.
My take is somewhat different and of course I could be mistaken. I believe Jim Rutherford is excited to have young forwards like Sutter, Tlusty, Boychuk, Bowman, and Dalpe. It is true that with Boychuk, Bowman, and Dalpe it is still unclear how much time they will need to develop. In my view, it is not logical to trade a talented young forward before he has been given a chance to develop.
I think it is far, far more likely that Samsonov and/or LaRose would be traded before any of the Albany Rats. My guess is that the LWs will be tried at center and RW before any consideration is given to trading them. The last thing the Hurricanes organization wants is to trade a young player who has tremendous upside before having a chance to find out if he is going to score 30 goals a season in the NHL.
Right side is full for next year (Ruutu/Jokinen/Kostopoulos/Cole), so no room for anyone over there without moving one of those contracts. Tlusty is RFA this summer, if you like him. it’s pretty crowded on the right side, too.
Bowman may need another year in the AHL, as first call up for injuries on the left side and maybe a trade deadline replacement for one of the LW’s (Whitney again?).
It’s not a bad thing to have so many serviceable assets, that’s for sure.
ADoug,
I agree that JR is excited about the kids. The problem is, you might have to many players at the same position. I agree that I would perfer to see Samsonov moved than the kids, but who is going to take him? He makes far more and teams know what they are getting with him. The kids have the low salary and the unexpected, that is a selling point to other teams. For instance, Samsonov is a borderline 2nd/3rd liner that can play on the PP and has a $2.5M cap hit. Boychuk and Bowman have the potential to be 1st liners and have a cap hit around $1M. In the salary cap era, which one would you perfer to have? As you mentioned, the reason for keeping them is the same reason they are attractive to other teams. I’m not saying trade away all of our prospects. I’m saying if the right deal comes along and the other team wants a prospect, it should be considered.
Also, I think the team could flip some LW’s to RW, but center is a different monster. Take for example Dwyer; he was used at center this year and wasn’t bad, but his faceoff % is horrible (around 39%). I know many people believe that is an overvalued stat, but losing defensive zone draws will come back to haunt you.
Yeah, I think if the right deal comes we should heavily consider it. However I agree that with Boychuck, Bowman, and Dalpe… I’d really rather wait until we can shake things out a bit and see who is the best before trading them away blindly.
I think Dalpe probably intrigues me the most, he is lighting it up as a sophomore at Ohio State and the only reason the team is in possible playoff contention. Bowman has been hurt much of the year, however in his limited time has shown flashes of brilliance. Boychuk has been playing well but not “certain lock for next year’s team well”. It just looks to me like he could use more time in the AHL, possibly just the rest of this year.
I realize there is no right or wrong answer and that we are all assessing the future as best we can. To my mind, the fact that Cole, Samsonov, and LaRose all have contracts that end after next season means that with some patience by Jim Rutherford (and he is among other things a very, very patient person by nature), he can let a prospect or two start in Albany and then bring them up as injuries or trades mandate.
The fact that no other team is knocking down Jim Rutherford’s door to obtain Cole, Samsonov, or LaRose, but they are pressing him apparently for prospects says all I need to know. The scouts and GMs realize the potential of the prospects. The Hurricanes have an abundant supply of young, high-end talent for the first time in the franchise’s history.
Those assets need to be nurtured, cherished, and help.
Again, I understand and somewhat agree with what you are saying. I’m just pointing out that the team has other areas of need and if ONE of the prospects has to be shipped out to address that need, it should be considered.
Take Bowman for example: he has marginal to good value right now. He could turn into a 30 goal scorer and his value could go through the roof. He could also turn into a player that doesn’t transition into the NHL very well and his value is that of AWard. If the second were to come true, the Canes missed out on trading him at his highest value. This is all conjecture and who knows how he turns out.
I believe having an abundance of prospects is a good problem to have. You then have the ability to see which ones work and which ones don’t. But if your team needs a certain position and you have more than enough left wingers, you can use one of those players to get a need. You still have other prospects that can fill the need at LW and you have hopefully filled a need at defense.
Again, all I’m saying is every option should be considered.
Exactly. I’d at least listen to offers.
But, it’s a Seller’s market, and I do suspect JR will play coy and drive a hard bargain if prospects are an essential component of a potential deal.
Yes, might be a deal-breaker to ask for my skilled prospects. But, also could lead to that elusive top-4 D-man we seek.
I mean, after all, with a fistful of draft picks, we can always acquire even more eye-catching talent than we hold right now.
That will come in handy when some all of these kids start wanting raises.
Young Prospects, Raises, and the Salary Cap
Elsker’s observations are very well-taken and I’ve been thinking it was an issue that ought to be discussed at Canes Country. One reason to have a reasonable mix of veterans and youth is that the salary cap and managing the ebb and flow of the team’s salaries.
One issue Chicago is facing is the salary cap impact of long-term contracts with its young players. It is interesting to consider all the variations and it will be even more fun to see how Jim Rutherford decides to remake the team.
Barker does worry me a bit. He gets paid a decent amount of money for not really proven himself yet. I do think that with more playing time, he could develop into a top 4 defenseman (maybe more). Chicago has 3 D-Men that play alot and the rest are fit in. I don’t know, he is a concern.
Byfuglin interest me a lot. He’s a big guy that can skate. He would fit nice on a 3rd/checking line and can play on the PP. On the PP, he could be a net presence or a point man. He also was a defenseman at one point, so it’s nice he could maybe play that role (in case a guy goes down with an injury during a game).
Versteeg is a nice player, but we already have plenty of “Mighty Mites.” That’s one player I would perfer not to have given our current roster.
If we could trade Wallin & Lindstrom for Byfuglien (perfer) or Barker, I would do that trade in a heart beat. Lindstrom is still a year or two away from getting a sniff at the NHL, we could find another player in that time.
I like Barker, he has a huge shot from the point and could easily replace Corvo for a similar salary. He is a little shaky in his own defensive zone, but I think playing with Pitkanen he would have the opportunity to be a little more risky and offensive while growing into a top-4 role.
Byfuglien interests me also, he has seemingly mastered his role of being a big trash-man in front of the crease which is something the Canes could definitely use.
I also really like Versteeg, however I agree that he probably would not be a huge upgrade to our current forwards and I would rather have Byfuglien or Barker.
With our glut of forwards it seems like a no brainer that we would try to trade out a forward for a young D with potential.
i heard that JR might trade Whitney, then try to resign him back to the hurricanes sometime in the future… not a bad idea, we could get a pretty good trade for Whitney
by silent_shadow36 on Jan 31, 2010 1:10 PM EST reply actions
And the Hawks’ team leaders for +/- : Seabrook and Keith : were both -2. That was one weird game. Most unexpected.
Those two are now +19 and +22 on the season.
Alberts is now +3, tied with Cullen and TommyK for the top of the Canes.
GM and soothsayer of the Unofficial Hurricanes' fishtank.
Up this week: Introducing Sutter-fish.
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 31, 2010 4:57 PM EST up reply actions
Enemy press
Always fun to read the opposition’s take on the game: Chicago Tribune
Including this insight:
There was a measure of satisfaction in the goal for Ladd, who helped the Hurricanes win the Cup in 2006 before he was traded to the Hawks for Tuomo Ruutu. Ladd stole the puck from Eric Staal and snapped it past Ward’s blocker from the slot. Ladd is still friends with both players and dined at Staal’s house Friday night.
“I will remind (Ward) I scored and I’ll remind (Staal) that I picked his pocket,” Ladd said of his summer conversations with the pair.
not to toot my own horn, but i said this first
from twitter
kausatoday:
Giguere and Phaneuf are going to have to be super, because the Leafs traded away roughly 38 percent of their offense
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