For the first time in what seems like forever, the Hurricanes have a Sunday off. The team did have something to announce though as Bryan Rodney returned to Albany. Here's more information from the Carolina press release-
Rodney, 24, played in two games during his first career NHL recall, earning a +1 plus/minus rating and averaging 14:31 of ice time during road games in Philadelphia and New York. Prior to his recall, Rodney had totaled eight assists in 17 games with Albany this season. The London, Ont., native split the 2007-08 season between the ECHL and the AHL, joining Albany in December when the River Rats were left shorthanded because of a flu bug. Rodney went on to notch 15 points (4g, 11a) in 42 regular season games for Albany and led all River Rats skaters with six points (3g, 3a) in seven playoff games. In 67 career AHL games with Hartford and Albany, Rodney has earned 26 points (5g, 21a) and totaled 36 penalty minutes.
The organization gets more and more impressed with this kid each time they see him. He might be back in Raleigh, sooner rather than later.
In other news around the league....
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Chicago Happy with Ladd Deal-
According to this article in the Chicago Sun Times, the Blackhawks are very happy with the player they received for Tuomo Ruutu. Carolina's first round pick in 2004, Andrew Ladd has been on a hot-streak of late (3 goals and 5 assists in last five games), and he recently had a four point game. (1 goal and 3 assists).
Of course the Hurricanes are pleased with Ruutu as well. This was one of those trades which benefited both teams and both players.
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Avery Done in Dallas-
We have not talked much about the Sean Avery fiasco on this blog, but as everyone knows, the "maverick" has gone out and gotten himself into trouble again. Apparently, his time in Dallas is over one way or the other. Getting rid of him will be expensive for the Stars though, and they have one other problem: who will take him? He's an awfully expensive agitator even at half his current salary.
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NHL Finances-
There is quite a bit of conjecture going around the league about the economy and the various ways that it might affect the NHL. Obviously, there is little argument that times are tough out there. One new idea was just brought up today. Larry Brooks of the New York Post suggests a league wide, price freeze. He thinks the league should lock in all ticket prices right through the playoffs, as well as next season.
I doubt the owners of many teams will agree with his idea, especially Washington owner Ted Leonsis. The fan friendly team chairman recently mentioned in his blog that even if the Caps run the table in the playoffs and have a seven game Stanley Cup Final Series, he will still lose an estimated five million.
If one can not make money under that scenario, how can you make money? Ted answers that question here.