Bleacher Report - Articles by Daniel Sallows

Looking Sharp: Toronto Maple Leafs Look To Aquire Patrick Sharp

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:20:02 -0500

On the eve of a press conference set in Chicago to announce the signing of Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith to multi-year contract extensions, Leafs fans sit anxiously salivating.

Why?

Well they are one of just a few clubs that the Blackhawks could dump some salary on in order to allocate enough cap space to lock up their young core of players.

It is the price a team like Chicago has to pay for drafting well in the "new" NHL, and unless you're a Leafs fan, it is a sadder state of affairs than Tiger Woods and his casino cocktail waitress.

While it is common knowledge that Leafs GM Brian Burke has had discussions about acquiring Brent Sopel and his $2.33 million annual salary, the savy manager is also interested in obtaining Patrick Sharp and his $3.9 million per year as well.

This has thrown a wrench in the trade plans, though Hawks GM Stan Bowman knows Sharp will most certainly have to be dealt as he is a player that has attracted the most interest from clubs.

This is a tough pill to swallow for a team that is one of the favorites to make a run this season.

Burke has faced more media scrutiny than a Britney Spears breakdown so far this season, even though the club has gone 7-5-6 since their dreadful 0-7-1 start, and he has only been at the helm a little over a year.

The fact is the Maple Leafs aren't nearly as bad as their record suggests, and to bring a player like Sharp into the mix would only right the ship even further. While adding Sopel gives them one more NHL calibre defenceman to lure to another team for a topnotch forward.

Heck, by the time Brian Burke is done he may just have every defensemen in the NHL playing for the Leafs.

Which may be very handy come the trade deadline.

If Toronto can indeed perpetrate a deal and pilfer Patrick Sharp away from the Blackhawks, than the Maple Leafs are going to be a very dangerous club down the stretch.

They may just make life miserable for the playoff contenders in the East.

And it will be just one more brilliant move pulled off by Burke, who may just be the NHL's answer to the smartest man on TV—Seth Macfarlane.

One has to wonder just how good this Leafs team could have been if Phil Kessel and Jonas Gustavsson would have been healthy to start the season.

They definitely wouldn't have been seven points back of the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Until this deal is completed, this is just another piece from a wannabe sports columnist who is about as well known as the guy who really sang for Milli Vanilli.

Though after tomorrows' press conference in Chicago, the Leafs may be a lot closer than you may think.

The Flames Factor: Calgary a Difference-Maker in the Playoffs

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:45:49 -0500

The Calgary Flames haven't had a very good track record in the playoffs over the past four seasons.

Let's face it, they have been about as successful as a new Kevin Costner flick.

That being said, the Flames have made a difference—even in their four consecutive first-round exits.

No team to play Calgary in the first round of the playoffs over the last four seasons has made it into the Stanley Cup finals, despite having well over 100 points, and in Detroit's (2007) and San Jose's (2008) cases, they were favoured to win.

Meeting the Flames has truly been a kiss of death when it comes to top-seeded teams playing them in the opening round.

So, what gives exactly?

Well, simple, Calgary is known for their hard-nosed physical brand of hockey; they basically wear teams down after a tough fought seven-game series.

They are the Randy Coutures of the NHL playoffs, losing more than they win in their old age but putting up a tough, punishing fight 'til the end.

It is enough to take its toll on even the best of hockey teams. Just ask the Ducks, Wings, Sharks, and Blackhawks players—all of whom have had the unenviable task of meeting them in late April.

This season's edition of the Calgary Flames is no different; in fact they may just be a little more vicious with Brent Sutter behind the bench.

Sutter has increased the players' accountability, as well as lit a fire under their captain, Jarome Iginla.

Throw in Miikka Kiprusoff, who has been hotter than a make-out scene between Megan Fox and Angelina Jolie, and you have a playoff team who could be scary good.

Yeah, this is all a little premature as we are just 25 games into the season. Even if the club boasts the second-best record in the Western Conference at 16-6-3, there is a long way to go 'til late April.

But if the play of the Flames' supporting cast—like Nigel Dawes (who has scored in four straight), Rene Bourque (who led all Flames in scoring before being injured), Jay Bouwmeester (who has logged over 27 minutes per game and leads the defence in scoring)—can continue, it is tough not to be just a little optimistic.

Calgary may not hoist the Stanley Cup come June, but you can bet they will have something to say about which team does.

It is as certain as Bon Jovi coming out with another album, except the Flames will have more hits.

In any case, unlike past seasons, Brent Sutter won't put up with excuses and will demand nothing less than excellence from his club, much like his brother Darryl did behind the bench in 2004.

And I am sure Flames' fans all know the outcome of that season.

That may just be the difference the Calgary Flames need to be a much bigger factor in 2010.

Guns a Blazing: Calgary Flames Are Getting It Done In More Ways Than One

Daniel Sallows — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:41:18 -0500

The Calgary Flames are on cloud nine.

And why wouldn't they be?

After last nights huge comeback win over the Columbus Blue Jackets, they are 9-2-2 in the month of November, and finding ways to win without relying on goals coming off Jarome Iginla's stick.

Simply put, the rest of the team is stepping up bigger than the cast of Saturday Night Live after Will Ferrell left.

Iggy hasn't scored in the Flames last three games, but the team is 3-0 in that span due to the recent play of free agent acquisition Nigel Dawes, call up Jamie Lundmark and Olli "where have you been all year" Jokinen.

Dawes has three goals in his last three games, on just four shots. His stick has been hotter than Elisha Cuthbert in a bikini, frying up chili peppers in a skillet in July.

Can someone tell him to shoot more?

Lundmark has scored the teams last two game-winners; in Detroit and against Columbus in the shootout, and has three points in five games since being called up. He has added a spark on the top line with Jokinen and Iginla, and more than filled the shoes of the injured Rene Bourque.

Jamie Lundmark has been to the Flames what Dave Grohl was to Nirvana you don't really notice how good he is until he is out on his own. The shootout winner he scored was a slick little snipe.

As far as Olli Jokinen is concerned, he has finally caught fire after putting up just three goals in his first 23 games he has a pair in his last two games to go with a couple helpers as well.

The Flames had no business winning in Detroit, but Miikka Kiprusoff's 40 save performance and the play of Jokinen, Lundmark and Dawes was enough to pick up another two points.

That is what makes good teams great, finding ways to win, whether it is ugly or not.

Now it has to come against a team like the Chicago Blackhawks, who's 7-1 blowout victory over the club will loom over them like a dark cloud until they can redeem themselves.

I don't like getting too carried away as I have been burned before by my beloved Calgary Flames, but they have yet to lose three games in a row in regulation this year.

At 16-6-3, Calgary looks primed to have a record setting season, yet there are still some kinks in their armour that stand out like Pamela Anderson in a sea of Rosie O'Donnell's.

That being said, the Flames should address those problems sooner rather than later, as anything less than a Stanley Cup birth would be a failure for a team that has so much invested in this season.

They will take little solace on another first-round exit.

For now though, all is well in Cowtown, as they continue to climb to the top of the Western Conference standings.

Until April comes, that should be good enough for any Flames fan.

Calgary Flames' Top Five Netminders

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:20:09 -0500

Following Miikka Kiprusoff's stupefying 40 save shutout win over the Detroit Red Wings last night I started to ponder...just who is the best Calgary Flames goaltender of all-time?

The team has had good ones pass through their dressing room. Some early in their careers; like Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Dwayne Roloson, others like Grant Fuhr and Curtis Joseph came on the brink of retirement.

With that in mind I decided to list who I believed to be the top five Calgary Flames tenders in their rich 30-year history.

5. Fred Braithwaite (Calgary Flames 1998-2001)

Sorry Roman Turek and Rick Wamsley, but Fred Braithwaite backstopped the Flames when they were in a rebuilding phase and had about as much depth as Courtney Love has talent.

In what was considered his rookie season in 1998, Braithwaite posted a 2.45 goals against average, a .915 save percentage, and went 11-9-7 in 28 appearances.

In total, he played 138 games for Calgary, going 51-51-20 with 11 shutouts and a 2.54 goals against, as well as a save percentage over .900 before being traded to St. Louis for the aforementioned Roman Turek.

4. Trevor Kidd (Calgary Flames 1991-1997)

Coming out of juniors, there was about as much hype surrounding Trevor Kidd as there is a Guns N' Roses reunion tour.

Though he did lead the team to a division title in 1995 going 22-14-6, the team was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the San Jose Sharks.

Kidd never seemed to reach his potential in Calgary, or the NHL for that matter, but he does boast the fourth most wins in club history with 72.

This makes him just good enough to make the cut for my list of fab five.

3. Rejean Lemelin (Calgary Flames 1980-1987)

When it comes to great NHL goaltenders, Reggie Lemelin is about as underrated as the Replacements are in the world of rock.

Only once in his seven seasons with Calgary did he lose more than 12 games, and that came in 1986 when the team landed in the Stanley Cup Finals, only to lose to Montreal.

In total, Lemelin finished 136-80-48, with six shutouts in his Calgary Flames career. Maybe not good enough to be mentioned in the NHL's all-time greats, but enough to get top three in my books.

2. Miikka Kiprusoff (Calgary Flames 2003-present)

Athletically, Miikka Kiprusoff is to Flames goaltending history what Michael Jordan was to basketball, simply put there has been nobody better.

From the time the club acquired him from San Jose until now, Kipper has gone 204-109-42, with 29 shutouts, a .915 save percentage, and a 2.40 goals against average.

What makes it more impressive is that the story is yet to be written, and there is no doubt he will rank No. 1 overall if he finishes his career in Cowtown.

The reason he is No. 2?

Well, despite leading Calgary to a 2004 Stanley Cup appearance, Kipper has been eliminated in the first-round each of the team's last four attempts.

His overall playoff record is 24-27, though his 2.34 goals against, .920 save percentage, and six shutouts are the best all-time for Flames netminders.

1. Mike Vernon (Calgary Flames 1982-1994, 2000-2002)

When talking about the greatest goalies to ever play in the NHL, let alone for Calgary, Mike Vernon's name has to be mentioned.

He led Calgary to their one and only Stanley Cup win in 1989, and backstopped them to a 1986 appearance in the finals against Montreal as well.

Flames and Vancouver Canucks fans alike will always have the image of Calgary's 5'9" Mike Vernon's glove hand save against Stan Smyl in game seven, in overtime in 1989 burned in their memories.

He finished his Flames career going 262-187-57 with 13 shutouts, and a playoff record of 43-33.

Overall, Vernon sits 10th all-time in the NHL with wins at 385, but he is No. 1 in Flames fans' hearts, that is until Kipper wins a Cup.

Scouts Honour: New York Rangers Scouts Saved Season

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:14:56 -0500

In the grand scheme of things NHL scouts are the forgotten man when it comes to a teams success.

But in the case of the New York Rangers this season, the scouting staff did their best David Copperfield impression and made magic happen in the Big Apple.

Going into training camp the Blueshirts had four NHL defensemen under contract with Wade Redden, Michal Rozsival, Marc Staal, and Dan Girardi; whom was a superb find in 2006 as an undrafted free agent signing.

To make matters worse GM Glen Sather had little cap room after signing free agent sniper Marian Gaborik to a $37.5 million contract over five years.

It seemed as though nothing short of a miracle was going to make the Rangers a playoff contender this season.

Even if Henrik Lundqvist was the second coming of Jacques Plante, Sean Avery played like Mark Messier, and Gaborik suddenly transformed into Pavel Bure, the Rangers had way too many holes on the blue line to be taken seriously.

But then came the emergence of 25-year-old free agent signing Matt Gilroy out of Boston University, and the 19-year-old phenom Michael Del Zotto; who was drafted 20th overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

The scouts knew Gilroy was capable of being an NHL defenseman, and he was highly pursued by numerous clubs including the Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Maple Leafs, but inevitably decided his star would shine brighter on Broadway.

So far it has, as he has been rock solid through the first two months of the season.

In the case of Del Zotto, the Rangers scouts knew he could step in and play offensively at an elite level even at 19, and he has not disappointed, leading the back end with 5 goals and 11 assists in 23 games.

Where he has surprised many is in his calm demeanor and smart defensive play as well.

But it doesn't stop there, as the scouts of the Blueshirts have also seen their 54th overall selection in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft pay huge dividends.

Artem Anisimov has provided an offensive spark to go with his size at 6'4" and 200lb frame.

When you throw these players into the mix of other good finds like Brandon Dubinsky (60th overall in 2004), Ryan Callahan (127th overall in 2004), and of course Marc Staal (12th overall in 2005), well you have to give credit to an underrated scouting staff in the Big Apple.

They may just be the Simon Cowell's of the hockey world when it comes to finding talent.

One has to wonder just how good this team could be if they didn't have $17 million a year tied up in the questionable contracts to Chris Drury, Wade Redden and Sean Avery.

But that might just make the amateur scouting staff of the Rangers about as important to the team as Kramer was to Seinfeld.

The fact is, they just wouldn't be this good without them.

The New York Rangers may or may not challenge for a Stanley Cup this season, but the fact there is even mention of it is due to the guys that spend numerous nights away from their families in a cold arena somewhere trying to find the next big thing.

Or in the Rangers case, trying to find a player to fill a void left by the almighty salary cap.

And for that, fans of the Blueshirts are blessed.

Watch Gilroy snap one home from this past weekend.

Iggy Pop: Jarome Iginla Should be Canada's Captain for the 2010 Olympics

Daniel Sallows — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:45:15 -0500

In 2002 it was Mario Lemiuex.

In 2006 it was Joe Sakic.

And if there was ever any question on who should bear the "C" for the 2010 installment of Canada's Olympic men's hockey team, well simply put, there shouldn't be.

Jarome Iginla should be the obvious choice for Steve Yzerman and company whether or not Sidney Crosby and Scott Niedermayer are available.

In fact the only thing more guaranteed than Iginla leading this edition of Team Canada is probably the outcome of the next Leafs game.

Not to say that the aforementioned "Sid the Kid" and Mr. Niedermayer aren't qualified candidates, as their impressive resumes speak for themselves, but right now nobody qualified to wear the captaincy even comes close to playing at the level Iginla has this season.

In the Calgary Flames last 14 games, their captain has tallied 14 goals and added five helpers, leading them to a 8-4-2 record.

Since the month of November, he has 12 of his teams 25 goals, accounting for nearly fifty percent of the Flames totals.

Still not impressed?

Well, he also leads the team in game winning goals, power-play markers, and is third on the Flames in penalty minutes. Simply put, he doesn't shy away from the physical stuff either.

Sure, the Canadian squad is deeper than a Jack Handy thought when it comes to talent, but when it comes to heart and the drive to compete at an intense level every game, there may be nobody better than Jarome Iginla.

Besides, two years ago Scott Niedermayer wasn't sure if he wanted to even continue playing hockey.

Crosby, on the other hand, wasn't even selected to Canada's roster for the 2006 games in Turin. A move which was about as smart as Mick Jagger doing a solo album.

If the captaincy is indeed between Iginla, Niedermayer, and Crosby, then the powers that be for team Canada are in good shape.

That being said, it is time that the 32-year old Iginla gets the opportunity to show the world what Calgary Flames fans already know, that he is the best all around hockey player in the NHL today.

Yes, as a Flames fan I am a little bias.

Yes, the highly decorated Scott Niedermayer, and the Cup winning phenom Sidney Crosby wouldn't be bad choices by any means.

They just wouldn't be the right choice.

The Olympic Torch isn't the only hot flame right now, and because of that, Jarome Iginla may have just made Steve Yzerman's job a little easier.

Five Sure Fire Ways To Get More Emotion For Sutter's Calgary Flames

Daniel Sallows — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:56:07 -0500

Following the Chicago Blackhawks 7-1 ye ole' fashioned ass-whopping of the Flames last Thursday in Cowtown, Brent Sutter demanded more emotion from his club.

Which is a good thing because at times I have seen more emotion outta my 75-year-old grandmother when Safeway has a special on cheese than the Flames have shown at times this season.

"It's too casual. I don't like it. I am not used to it," Sutter declared after the Hawks game. "Get upset. Get upset with each other."

This was apparently followed by a shouting match between coach Sutter and Calgary defenceman Dion Phaneuf, and I'm almost positive their were a few four-letter words thrown around in that conversation.

So now what?

The Flames rebounded nicely against Los Angeles on Saturday with a 5-2 win, but this team is definitely not one of the leagues elite just quite yet.

You want more emotion you say?

Well here are just a few ideas to maybe light a fire under a club that at times look like they should drop the "F" off their team name.

Make a Trade

It has been pretty much like club med in Calgary since their run to the Stanley Cup finals in 2003-04, basically since Darryl Sutter stepped down from the coaching duties.

They are not going to fire Brent Sutter because he is getting the job done with what he has, but Olli Jokinen has to go. If they can't get anything for him, then it may be time to part ways with Phaneuf and get another goal-scoring forward.

As much as I like him the team is deep at the back-end with players like Mark Giordano and Adam Pardy more than capable of stepping up.

Warm the Bench

If players aren't producing then sit them.

Whether it's David Moss or the five million dollar man Jokinen, make them watch from the press box for a few games and call up some help from the farm. Usually guys like Jamie Lundmark and Brett Sutter are full of energy and emotion when they get their stint with the big club. The veteran guys will get it, and if not ship 'em out.

Give Leland Irving a Shot

Despite the fact Miikka Kiprusoff has looked as though he has regained his form it is time to call up Leland Irving for the backup because he is capable of playing thirty games which will rest the over-worked Finnish tender, and at the same time push him to remain at the top of his game.

The last time the Flames had a capable backup was with Roman Turek in 2003-04, the year Kiprusoff shone, and the team made the finals.

Kick Yourselves for not Keeping Fleury Around

It is times like these when if the Flames had of just sent Theoren Fleury to the minors that it may have been a quick fix having him available.

There is no doubt that the emotion he played with and brought to the building would be infectious even to a corpse...though maybe not Jokinen.

What's done is done I guess, but you have to wonder what shape Calgary's version of mighty mouse would have been in after twenty games in the minors. The Sutter's may have wanted a redo on the entire thing after the Hawks stomping.

Check the Waiver Wire

Not like it's a solution but when you don't have to give up anything, why not take a chance on a player that may just need a change of scenery.

The Flames have a good record, so they would have to wait for twenty or so teams to pass on the player, but in the case of Andrew Ebbett who was picked up by Chicago the first time around; Calgary could have had themselves a crafty little centerman which may have helped ignite some struggling players.

All and all the Calgary Flames have been very good this season.

Good enough to win the Cup?

Definitely no, but good enough for the playoffs and to make a team like San Jose's life miserable trying to get to another round. Which depending on what type of Flames fan you ask may be okay.

But it's not okay for Brent Sutter and company whom I'm sure want a team capable of challenging for a championship. Something that I'm sure they're questioning at this point in the season.

Something that like the latest Pearl Jam song, I'm sure the Sutter's are gonna put a little fixin' on it.

A Sure Bet: Leafs Should Have Taken a Gamble on Andrew Ebbett

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 19:51:18 -0500

There are no sure things in the game of hockey...see Daigle, Alexandre.

But there are some things worth taking a chance on, like in the case of the once again waived Andrew Ebbett.

Ebbett didn`t really turn heads in Chicago, scoring just one goal in 10 games, but he wasn`t given much of an opportunity either as he was delegated to the fourth line most nights.

While conditioning and drive may be questioned, his ability is not, as Ebbett is a gifted center that's play-making abilities rival that of Marc Savard.

Which makes the Leafs' decision to pass on him once again on the waiver wire all that more puzzling.

He may have been the perfect fit for Phil Kessel.

The fact is the kid racked up 8 goals and 24 assists while taking a regular shift in 48 games last season for the Anaheim Ducks.

And the thought throughout the league is that he is capable of more if he had the opportunity to play quality minutes with a top calibre goal scoring winger.

It may be that GM Brian Burke likes to shy away from a player of Ebbett's size as he stands at a generous 5'9" and only weighs 172 lbs, but the fact is he has skill which is something that the Leafs definitely lack.

To me it makes as much sense as the cast of Seinfeld coming back for a reunion show, it most likely would be successful.

The Minnesota Wild eventually picked up the pint-sized Ebbett, after ultimately the Leafs and Canes passed, and word from the Anaheim camp is that they were set to reacquire him if the Wild didn't.

Yes, because the Leafs have been bottom feeders all season, it always seems like they should be in on the latest waiver pick and or trade talk.

But something about Ebbett's skill and potential seemed like it be the perfect fit alongside Kessel, and the fact Burke had him in Anaheim made it even more like an obvious destination.

Kessel seems to be doing well enough on his own with 5 goals in 8 games so far, but acquiring a genuine playmaking NHL center for him wouldn't hurt, especially when it would cost the team nothing.

I guess now Minnesota's struggling Martin Havlat will reap the rewards of Ebbett's soft hands and vision, and it's quite possible he is needed more there than in Leaf Nation anyhow.

In any case, I hope this is indeed a good fit for Andrew Ebbett and he can get on making magic offensively, which is what he does best.

Though he may be a wild card, Minnesota didn't risk anything to get him, and in that sense it's a pretty good bet in my books.

Extinguish The Flames: Is It Time To Rebuild In Calgary?

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:02:41 -0500

I hate to say it, though I have known it since the beginning of training camp, but without some major changes the Calgary Flames are destined for another first-round exit this season.

Don't get me wrong the club isn't horrible, but they aren't good enough to challenge for the Stanley Cup just yet either.

Thursday nights 7-1 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks I'm sure raised some eyebrows amongst the Flames brass as Calgary's play was like watching David Hasselhoff perform Shakespeare.

So now, Darryl Sutter and company are left with a lot of questions, with little answers on how to fix this trend that has haunted the club for the last five seasons.

It may just be time to extinguish the flame and light it again with prospects and draft picks.

The Calgary Flames have never had the first overall pick in the draft, in fact they have never even had a top five selection in their long thirty year history.

Personally I would have preferred the team to get in on the John Tavares and Victor Hedman sweepstakes last season rather than witness yet another quick exit from the playoffs.

It seems as though Calgary has become the NHL's playoff version of the token black guy that gets killed in the beginning of every horror film, and as a Flames fan and an avid moviegoer I gotta say both are getting really old.

What could be the worst to happen if Darryl Sutter was to tear this thing apart and start a rebuild?

So the team misses the playoffs for a few seasons, in all likely hood they were going to be eliminated sooner than later anyhow.

I highly doubt the Saddledome would even be affected in attendance, and ticket prices would probably still be at an NHL high, as their fan base is very strong.

And with some already impressive prospects in place like twenty-one-year-old goaltender Leland Irving and twenty-year-old center Mikael Backlund, to go with a good core of youngsters like Dion Phaneuf, Jay Bouwmeester, Mark Giordano, Nigel Dawes, Eric Nystrom and Dustin Boyd(all of whom are 26 or younger),one would have to think the rebuild wouldn't take longer than three to five years to make the team a genuine Cup contender.

If Sutter was to rip this off like a band-aid and start quick, though it may be painful at first, it would ease the pain quicker if he could select an up and coming star like Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin. Both of whom are considered to be bonafied NHL stars going into the 2010 NHL draft.

The only bad thing about this entire theory besides the Flames missing the playoffs for a few years would be that Sutter would most likely have to move Jarome Iginla, which for any Calgary fan( myself included), is a dreadful thought.

In any case it is a tough position to be in for the Flames GM, who could keep a very good team together that will challenge for a playoff spot year-after-year, or build one that could challenge for a Stanley Cup year-after-year.

If there is any more 7-1 losses you would have to think Sutter will choose the later of the two.

Which in my mind, may just be the right thing to do.

Contenders or Pretenders: Will the Real Calgary Flames Please Step Up?

Daniel Sallows — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:57:16 -0500

They have shown they can beat Montreal.

They have shown they can beat St.Louis.

They have shown they can beat Edmonton.

But now it is time that the 12-5-2 Calgary Flames showed they can beat a good hockey club.

One who is above them in the standings; which is something they have not done all year.

Otherwise all this Stanley Cup contenders, and top team in Canada talk is just the regular premature hype that has surrounded the Flames since their 2004 playoff run.

Tuesday's game against the Colorado Avalanche should have produced better results, considering the Av's came into the game division leaders and had already beaten the Flames at home this season.

Now factor into the equation that Calgary was the only Canadian club not to beat the Avalanche on their western swing and you may need to ask the question.

Did the Flames fall victim to believing their own hype?

Now they face a Chicago Blackhawks club with an identical record at 12-5-2, a team that put them out in the first-round of the playoffs last season, and more recently overcame a 5-0 deficit to Calgary only to win 6-5, in what may have been one of the biggest collapses in franchise history.

It seems to this point that the Flames season has all the makings of a Wayans brothers flic, in that there is nothing funny about it at all.

The problem?

Well I'm not a genius, I just play one on the Bleacher Report, but since Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff caught fire the rest of the team has gone into a funk worse than Lipps Inc.

In the month of November so far Jarome Iginla has 8 goals in seven games, while the rest of the team has chipped in nine. Take Iggy outta the line-up and the Flames have averaged a measly 1.28 goals per game.

It is a wonder they still boast the fifth best record in the Western Conference, and aren't in the Taylor Hall lottery instead.

For the Flames to be a genuine contender they need to simply want it more, otherwise it will just be one more season of disappointment and questions.

And I gotta tell ya as a Calgary fan, I'm looking forward to one more first-round exit about as much as I'm looking forward to my girlfriend making me sit through another episode of Cougar Town.

The NHL season started way back on October 1st, but as for the Flames their season starts tonight against Chicago.

So would the real Calgary Flames please step up sooner than later, because in the tight Western Conference another two points could be the difference between hitting the ice in late April or hitting the links.

On the Hot Seat: Flames' Olli Jokinen on the Trading Block?

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:02:44 -0500

There is no doubting his skill.

There is no doubting his size.

But Olli Jokinen has been an enigma in Calgary this season, and one has to wonder how much more the Sutter brothers can take before an inevitable trade.

The rumours have been swirling of late.

One in particular would send him back to the Panthers for prospects in order to free up cap space to re-sign Rene Bourque to a long-term deal.

Another would see him end up in Toronto for the much maligned Matt Stajan.

And yet another to the playoff-contending New York Islanders that would see Jeff Tambellini and Blake Comeau exchanged for the underachieving Finnish center.

Despite his lack of production, Jokinen still has some value on the market because of his size and his 30-goal potential.

This makes this all the harder for the Calgary Flames who need a big, first-line centerman as much as anybody.

Jokinen just doesn't seem to fit.

At times watching Jokinen play has been like the series finale of Seinfeld; so much anticipation which ends in an ultimate letdown.

Two goals in 18 games just doesn't cut it when you're making $5.5 million.

The Flames are sitting near the top of the Western Conference standings at 12-4-2, but any long-term bump in their season will most likely mean the end for Olli Jokinen in Calgary unless he suddenly becomes the second coming of Joe Nieuwendyk and lights the lamp in a consecutive stretch.

Let's face it, the Sutter brothers are known for a lot of things, but patience ain't one of them.

The sudden emergence of Mikael Backlund in Abbotsford could also play a part in any trade speculation, as he has been very good in the Heat's last nine games, scoring six goals and adding a couple assists, and finally adapting to the pro game.

Yes, there is no need to push the panic button in Calgary because the team is winning.

That being said if the right offer is on the table, Darryl Sutter won't hesitate to make a change.

If Jokinen continues to struggle, he will indeed be dealt.

It is as inevitable as the latest Twighlight movie breaking box office records.

I personally hope he can turn things around, as the Flames with a hot Olli Jokinen are much better than without him.

But that, I'm sure can be said in Montreal about Scott Gomez, Carolina about Eric Staal, and Tampa Bay about Vinny Lecavalier; all of whom have had a hard time finding the twine this season.

The only difference is Calgary isn't near the bottom of the standings.

This may just drag Jokinen trade rumours on longer than a Pink Floyd song.

Good for wannabe sports writers like me, but bad for Cup contenders like the Calgary Flames.

Standing Tall: Miikka Kiprusoff Has Finally Returned To Form

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:09:15 -0500

At the end of the 2003-04 season, the Calgary Flames and their fans were on top of the world. They had the second best team in hockey, and quite possibly the number one goalie.

It seemed as though Miikka Kiprusoff was destined to capture Vezina trophies with the same amount of ease it took him to capture the hearts of Flames fans.

But after four seasons of a steadily declining goals against average, that saw Kipper go from the modern day NHL record of 1.69 to dangerously close to allowing three goals per game, many around the NHL were wondering if we had seen the best of the Finnish keeper.

Though the Flames had a decent record through October to start the 2009-10 season, Kiprusoff was inconsistent at best, and at times was like watching a stripper on speed, he may have been moving fast but you could still throw a beachball through his five-hole.

But what a difference a week makes, as Calgary's number one goaltender suddenly transformed himself back into one of the NHLs elite over the past four games.

In that time Miikka has gone 3-0-1 with a shutout and a remarkable 0.74 goals against average, making him 10-3-2 on the year with a 2.38 G.A.A. and a .921 save percentage.

It is truly the best he has looked in years.

Yes, you can give credit to the Flames defense that tightened up on second chances for their opponents, rarely allowing any rebounds.

But they are still giving up 30 shots a game.

Yes, you can give credit to the coaching of Brent Sutter for making the players accountable and buying into his defensive system.

But it is Kiprusoff that continues to backstop the bulk of the games; appearing in 15 of the 17 Calgary has played to date.

It is still early, and we have seen these streaks out of Kipper before where it was like listening to Weezer's Green Album; it is so good but not long enough.

Something seems different over the past few weeks though, like this confident, quick Kiprusoff is here to stay. And if that is indeed the case, than Calgary can start selling playoff tickets because the road to the Cup is gonna have to take a detour through Cowtown.

Flames Farm Hands Continue To Heat Up In Abbotsford

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:01:19 -0500

There seems to be a number of things to cheer about for fans of the Calgary Flames these days.

As well as boasting an 11-4-1 start to the season, Calgary's backbones Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff are at the top of their game.

All is well in Cowtown.

And the same can be said down on the farm, where the Abbotsford Heat are quietly putting together a pleasant inaugural campaign thanks to some up and coming Flames prospects.

The Heat sit fourth in the AHL's Western Conference at 8-5-3 thanks in part to the solid play of goaltender Leland Irving; who is 7-4-1 with a remarkable 2.17 goals- against average, and .928 save percentage so far this season.

Irving had been named AHL's player of the week for the period ending Nov. 1, 2009 as he went 3-0-0, with a 0.65 goals-against average and .976 save percentage.

Other notables for Abbotsford have been 20-year-old center Mikael Backlund, who after putting up just one goal in his first eight games has lit the lamp five times and added two helpers in the last eight he's played.

The Flames first round selection in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft is finally getting his feet wet at life in the pro's and has been like watching an episode of Saturday Night Live backwards as he started slow but has been finishing strong.

Veteran forward Jamie Lundmark has led a good supporting cast with five goals and eight assists in 16 games, and isn't a bad guy to have around when Calgary gets hit with the injury bug as that is almost inevitable with the NHL's compact Olympic schedule.

Kris Chucko's two-way play has been stellar once again this season with five goals and five assists. The Flames first round selection from the 2004 NHL Entry Draft looks prime to make an impact both in Abbotsford or if and when he gets the call from the big club.

Jason Jaffray has proved to be a nice free agent signing by Calgary as he has also contributed with six goals and five assists thus far.

On defence the Heat are bolstered by a bunch that is all over 6'2" and 200 lbs. all except for quite possibly their most offensively dynamic blueliner Keith Seabrook who had tallied 3 markers on the season already.

Along with Seabrook, the Flames 2005 NHL Entry Draft first rounder Matt Pelech is making waves down on the farm with his play. The 6'3" 220 lbs. imposing defender has been nothing short of brilliant this season and has put up a few points along the way.

Yes, it looks as though Calgary will be in good shape for a long time with their prospects down in the AHL, which should just add more fuel to the fire on an already very impressive Flames club.

Just another Sutter farm that seems to be producing some quality eggs.

NHL Insider: Rumors From Around the League

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:00:29 -0500

Well the latest trade talks have been swirling due to the general managers' meetings at the Westin Harbour Castle on Tuesday.

Here are just a few of the most recent rumours that have been tossed into the hat.

Horton Hears a Trade Rumor to Whom

It wouldn't be a huge surprise if the Florida Panthers did trade the 6-foot-2 229 lb. Nathan Horton as it has been rumoured right from training camp.

Though the right winger is second on the team in scoring with four goals and seven assists this season, he hasn't warranted the six-year, $24 million contract he signed in 2007. But because of his potential and size, he still has tremendous value.

As always, the Leafs have been said to be interested, but so have the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens; both of whom would like to get bigger up front.

The Leafs may not have the assets to acquire the 24-year-old Horton unlike the Habs and Oilers who have fairly deep forwards and prospects.

In any case there is an elephant in the room as far as the Panthers are concerned, as Horton is destined to be dealt.

Leafs Finger Giguere

OK, so let's face it, anytime one of Brian Burke's former players is struggling there is going to be a rumour he is headed to Leaf Nation.

This one has Jeff Finger, Lee Stempniak and Vesa Toskala headed to Anaheim for Jean-Sebastien Giguere.

Depending who you ask the trade makes sense, despite Jonas Gustavsson going 3-3-3 with an impressive 2.77 goals against average and .912 save percentage of late, the Leafs aren't convinced he is ready to be their number one guy.

The Ducks would receive two players in Finger and Stempniak that haven't produced, but haven't played poorly as well.

The catch though is that they would have to take on the- four-million-man, Vesa Toskala and his 0-2-2 record to go with his 5.13 goals against and .836 save percentage, which may be asking Anaheim to bite the bullet just a little too much.

The Leafs fans may just have to listen to Will Smith in order to get "jiggy with it" instead.

Canucks Target Kovalchuk

The Vancouver Canucks may have lost out on the Marian Gaborik lottery over the summer, but may have won the consolation prize.

Since they seem to be in one of the best positions with regards to cap space and legitimate prospects to make a run at either signing the soon to be free agent, or trading for him.

The 26-year-old Ilya Kovalchuk is an offensive force that Canucks fans have not seen since the days of Pavel Bure, and could be the final piece of the puzzle on a team that seem all but destined to get to the finals soon.

With names like Cory Schneider, Michael Grabner, and Cody Hodgson at GM Mike Gillis's disposal, Atlanta should take a good hard look if they decide not to resign the talented Russian.

I gotta say as a Flames fan the possibility of the 'Nucks signing Kovalchuk makes me wanna upchuck.

Yzerman and Olympic Squad Counting Its Penners

With his hot play Dustin Penner has moved on to Team Canada's Olympic radar, and why not?

There have been few better than the 6-foot-4 245 lb. winger this season, as he is tied for fourth in the league in scoring with 11 goals and 11 assists.

Now the question is simply who to leave off the roster. Of course this is a Canadian team deep with talent, though struggling center's like Ryan Getzlaf and Vinny Lecavalier whom may have played wing could be the answer.

In any case the Oilers big winger has at least given the Canadian staff a "Penner for their thoughts."

Almost Famous: Calgary's Nigel Dawes Is Finally Emerging as a Bonafied NHLer

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:28:06 -0500

The New York Rangers 2003 draft pick Nigel Dawes was truly great in junior while playing for the WHLs Kootenay Ice, scoring 159 goals, and 272 points in 245 games.

He then landed in Hartford playing for the AHLs Wolf Pack, and continued to light the lamp scoring 35 goals, and 32 assists in 77 games as a rookie.

It seemed as though Nigel Dawes's star was prime to shine brighter than the neon lights on Broadway.

But after a little under two season's in the Big Apple, and 24 goals, his star flickered enough to waive him to Phoenix; where he would record just two assists in 12 games.

At times comparing the junior Dawes to that of the one in the NHL has been like listening to Nirvana's follow up to Nevermind, In Utero; it was good not great, and certainly didn't live up to expectations.

It looked like Nigel Dawes was destined to be yet another great junior player thats talents never really bubbled to the surface in the NHL.

Then the Calgary Flames would enter the picture, with little cap room, trying to fill a void left by the departed Mike Cammalleri.

In his time in New York, Dawes had been given chances to succeed, but maybe not quite like this, as the left winger had been penciled in on one of the Flames Top-Two lines since the start of training camp.

In fifteen games so far this season, Calgary's new "little big man" has four goals, and six assists, good for third on the team in scoring. No, not quite Cammalleri's numbers, but the twenty-four-year-old has shown all the tools that he is becoming a bonafied NHLer, at $5 million cheaper, and three years younger than the aforementioned Cammalleri.

Yes, it is all too early to speculate on how Dawes does the rest of the way.

It may be like predicting the weather in Calgary.

But so far there has been consistent flashes of brilliance that makes fans think back to a young Theoren Fleury with the 1989 Flames; a club that finished first overall, and went on to hoist the Stanley Cup.

At 10-4-1, the 2009-10 version of the Calgary Flames may just have the potential, and so far it has been aided by the play of Nigel Dawes, who is quickly becoming almost famous in cowtown.

How Jarome "Iggy" Iginla Got His Groove Back

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:57:38 -0500

If it were up to Jarome Iginla, the NHL regular season would always start sometime in November, as the Flames captain is notorious for struggling in October.

Let's face it, he will never be considered the Reggie Jackson of hockey.

After scoring just four goals and five assists in the first 12 games this season, Iggy popped in three goals and an assist in his last two games since October rolled into November.

It's baffling to hockey observers why Iginla struggles, but it's become as constant in the hockey world as Mike Keenan landing a coaching gig.

Who knows, maybe Iginla is distracted by NBC's new fall lineup? Or possibly he was preoccupied trying to land U2 concert tickets?

Whatever it is, the Flames captain just doesn't seem to produce in October, no matter how well he plays. At times he was like watching an old episode of Arrested Development; you wonder how something that good just can't catch on.

However, his season's edition of the Calgary Flames seemed to go through October unfazed by Iginla's inability to find the back of the net, as they finished 7-4-1. Which is a sign we may not have seen just how good Brent Sutter's club actually is.

In any case, the new calendar month is usually a blessing for the Flames captain—and their fans for that matter—as a hot Iginla generally means a better Calgary squad.

A Jarome Iginla who is constantly moving his skates, hitting everything in sight, and shooting the puck is an Iginla in a groove. There is little doubt he will keep it up.

He is just that damn good!

Yes, we as sports reporters—and more importantly, fans—can get on Iginla's October struggles year after year. But before we do, maybe we should think back to a saying from another great athlete.

"I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." — Michael Jordan

I guess time will only tell where the Flames inevitably end up this season, but if history tell's us anything, it's that Jarome Iginla's struggles this season are over.

Vinny Lecavalier May Still Be Knight in Shining Armour for Habs Fans

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:57:49 -0500

Just when you thought the trade rumours had all but ceased in Montreal, the Habs have played inconsistent, and Vinny Lecavalier has been mediocre at best.

It is no secret he has been in coach Rick Tocchet's doghouse of late.

Vinny has been badly outshone by sophomore Steven Stamkos who has as many goals as Lecavalier has points, with 11, and has seen time on the Lightnings third line more than once this season.

The entire situation is about as messy as a fraternity house bedroom.

Then we have Montreal's Carey Price who looked like Nancy Kerrigan after taking one in the leg by Jeff Gillooly in his interview following a 5-4 loss to Atlanta the other night.

The kid was holding back tears as he exclaimed "it just isn't fun losing games like that all the time."

So we have two players that could both use a change of scenery, on two teams on the outside looking in for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Then factor into the equation that Scott Gomez hasn't been great so far, and he was a centerpiece in the Rangers bid to get Lecavalier out of Tampa last season.

As well as the fact that Lightning goalie Mike Smith has also struggled out of the gate.

Throw in a couple Kostitsyn brothers and you have yourself the makings of a pretty even trade that could help both clubs.

Yes, this is all speculation, but in reality the trade makes sense.

The Habs get their francophone superstar and the Lightning get a good young goalie to build around with Stamkos and Victor Hedman already in the fold.

Not to mention a decent second line center in Gomez.

Yes, there is a chance this could come back to haunt Habs fans like the Patrick Roy deal did.

That is if Carey Price can become the goaltender I believe he may just be.

I just don't think he can do it in Montreal.

In french "le" means the, and cavalier is defined in the dictionary as a knight...it just might be that Le-cavalier is indeed the saviour of a storied franchise.

The knight in shining armour that will once again bring Lord Stanley's Cup home.

Darryl Sutter Continues To Quietly Fuel The Fire In Calgary

Daniel Sallows — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:57:20 -0500

I'll admit it, Darryl Sutter is nothing short of brilliant when it comes to managing a hockey club.

Don't tell him that though, as I would much rather rag on him than give him praise.

After all, I am a wannabe sports writer, and that is what good ones do...right?

Anytime I think there is the crazy notion that the Calgary Flames aren't going anywhere, I will quickly think back to what I like to call "the B.S. years" or before Sutter:

The time when the Flames went seven years straight without making the playoffs and looked about as good as Rosie O'Donnell in a pair of short shorts.

In Darryl Sutter's five-year tenure with the club they have been to the Stanley Cup finals once, made the playoffs in each year, and had no fewer than 94 points.

That's not too shabby for a farm boy from Viking, Alberta.

The fact is that Darryl Sutter genuinely cares about his players, the organization, and the city of Calgary, for that matter, which in pro sports is about as rare as a bad episode of The Office.

He consistently makes big time moves (i.e. trading for Olli Jokinen, signing Jay Bouwmeester), surrounds himself with smart hockey people like his brother Brent, and continues to put the Flames in a position to win year after year.

Yet at times he seems like the forgotten man when there is talk about the NHL's top GM.

Sutter just may be the NHL's version of "Mutt" Lange as he quietly produces good teams on a yearly basis.

This season's edition of the Calgary Flames is no different as they have got off to an impressive 7-4-1 start.

And they have been doing it with some of Sutter's subtle additions over the past few years, names like Rene Bourque, Curtis Glencross and Nigel Dawes.

Players that all make well below the league average.

Yes Darryl Sutter doesn't have the cup rings that Detroit's Ken Holland sports.

He isn't as outspoken and bold as the Leafs' Brian Burke.

Instead he just goes out and does his business quietly and efficiently, putting the pieces together for hopefully a championship team one day.

As a sports writer I may always want more, but as a fan, that's about all I can ask for.

New Bourque On The Block

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:56:08 -0500

There were times in Chicago while playing for the Blackhawks that Rene Bourque looked like he was about as gifted as former Pittsburgh Penguin fourth liner Phil Bourque.

Recently though the 27-year-old Flames winger has looked as dependable as former Boston Bruin great Ray Bourque, leading the team in points with 15.

On a team that's stars have struggled to find the back of the net worse than Danny Bonaduce has struggled to find an acting gig, Bourque has been a pleasent surprise to say the least.

There has been little not to like in number 17's game of late, besides being tremendous on the power-play he has been clutch on the penalty-kill as well.

Not to mention the fact he has rejuvenated veteran Daymond Langkow, who is playing like he did a couple years ago.

Bourque's play has finally given the Flames bonafied secondary scoring...er, if they can get the first line rolling that is.

The Flames have gone 3-4-1 of late, which may be realistic expectations on a club that is built around defence and a streaky goalie.

If Jarome Iginla, who is as a notorious slow-starter as an overweight city worker, can catch fire and Olli Jokinen can buy into Brent Sutter's system; then Calgary could challenge for the top of the Western Conference standings.

If not, then the Flames are as good as their current 8th place status.

Now the question arises...what to do with Bourque's pending free agent status?

As good as he has been, he doesn't have the numbers that Mike Cammalleri put up the past four seasons, and Flames fans are all too familiar on how that situation ended.

For now the Calgary Flames and their fans can take refuge in the fact they have Bourque and he has provided a spark on an otherwise average offense.

Really that's all any of us can do with the dark cloud that is the almighty salary cap that hangs over each and every NHL club these days.

A Return to the Age of the Hockey Cage

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:37:51 -0500

In the game of hockey, like in any sport, injuries will occur. It is as guaranteed as the Rolling Stones going on another world tour.

There are ways to prevent a serious injury, but at times so many things out of your control have to align.

Players have become bigger, stronger, faster and the equipment at times looks like something that could be worn by a Star Wars storm trooper.

So after the tragic events that unfolded Friday night in the Kitchener Rangers' 4-0 win over the Erie Otters, that has left 16-year-old Rangers defenceman Ben Fanelli in critical condition, I got to thinking.

Would it have happened if the CHL made it mandatory for players to wear full face protection?

Ultimately, it comes down to respect amongst the players, as the hit was malicious on the part of Erie's 20-year-old Michael Liambas, who had Fanelli lined up from the faceoff circle as he threw himself into the young defenceman behind the net.

But with all the talk of players respecting each other in the NHL, throwing vicious headshots on a nightly basis, why would it be any different in the junior leagues as these are the players that youngsters inspire to be.

A helmet and cage combo could pop off in a hit for sure, but it makes it a little less likely.

In any case, with a serious injury like the one suffered to Fanelli there are bound to be questions arise like what could have been done to prevent it from happening.

We can only hope for answers.

It could be as simple as bearing a cage?

Hopefully this incident will make players think twice before trying to eliminate an opponent who is in a fragile position.

My thoughts and prayers go out to young Ben Fanelli and his family.

The Monster Mash: An NHL Tribute to a Catchy Halloween Diddy

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:35:26 -0400

In the spirit of Halloween, I decided to create an NHL version to the Bobby "Boris" Pickett classic The Monster Mash.

If you are ever skating on a rink and see some of the players mentioned in this song, I suggest you skate away like hell.

This is a little diddy I like to call the NHL Monster Bash.

I was playing hockey in the rink late one night, when to my eyes I saw an awful sight. For Eric Godard from the Pens jumped onto the ice, and what happened then wasn't very nice.

He did the Bash, he did the NHL Bash, the NHL Bash. It was a hockey player smash. He did the Bash. It caught on in a flash. He did the Bash, he did the NHL Bash.

From the Toronto Maple Leafs came Colton Orr, Carcillo from the Flyers asked "are you looking for more?" The tough guys all came from their humble abodes, to throw jolts at one another like shotgun loads.

Insert chorus here (I'm sure you get the idea).

Those goons they were all just having fun, George Parros yelled out the dance has just begun. The team included Zack Stortini from Edmonton, as well as Slapshots Dave Hanson and Christian, his son.

The scene was rockin', fans were diggin' the fights, what more can you expect on a Saturday night? More NHL bangers were about to arrive, and sit in the box and feel shame for five.

Out from the box David Clarkson did fly, threw a hay-maker and caught Jared Boll in the eye. He took off his lid and shook his fist and said "does anybody know what happened to Tony Twist?"

Now everything's cool, except that Riley Cote broke his hand, and the NHL Bash is the hit of the land. For you, the fans, this Bash was meant too, when you get to the rink tell them Don Cherry sent you.

Then you can Bash. Then you can NHL Bash.

The NHL's Top Five Captains

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:59:22 -0400

The dictionary defines a captain as one who commands, leads, or guides others.

To be a successful captain in any pro sport you are usually measured by how many championships you have won, but it also takes heart, drive, determination and a will to win to truly measure a player who bears a "C".

On that note, I decided to take a look at the top five captains in the NHL right now.

Five players that any general manager or coach would love to have lead their team.

5. The Philadelphia Flyers, Mike Richards

The Philadelphia Flyers were a team trying to find an identity when Mike Richards made his NHL debut on Oct. 5, 2005, but ever since naming the 24-year-old captain, the club has been one of the league's best.

The 5'11"-200 lb Richards is a skilled forward that can play both the PP and PK, as well as throw pulverizing hits...just ask Florida's David Booth.

4. The Columbus Blue Jackets, Rick Nash

Who would have thought it?

The Columbus Blue Jackets got a taste of the playoffs last year, and this season are off to a decent start at 6-5-1, mainly from the play of their captain Rick Nash.

The 6'4"-235 lb Nash is the complete package of power and skill, who like Richards is dangerous both on the power-play and the penalty kill.

It is only a matter of time before the Jackets become Stanley Cup contenders.

3. The Anaheim Ducks, Scott Niedermayer

You could argue that Scott Niedermayer is the best captain of all-time, and why not, his resume speaks for itself: he is the only Canadian player to ever win a Stanley Cup, Memorial Cup, World Junior Championship gold, IIHF World Championship gold, World Cup of Hockey title and an Olympic gold.

So yes, he knows something about winning.

The fact is the slick-skating defenseman is great at both ends of the ice as well as in the dressing room.

One has to wonder just how many points he could have managed if he had of played in the '80s or not in the New Jersey Devils defensive system for 12 seasons.

Maybe Canada's choice to sport the "C" for the Olympic squad...seems like a no-brainer.

2. The Pittsburgh Penguins, Sidney Crosby

Say what you will about Sidney Crosby, but the fact is the kid simply loves to play hockey, and win for that matter.

The youngest captain to ever win a Stanley Cup, also the youngest player to ever win a scoring title.

He has already done it all it seems at the young age of 22.

Crosby competes harder than any other player on the ice every night, and offensively there are few better than Pittsburgh's number 87.

1. The Calgary Flames, Jarome Iginla

If Jarome Iginla was surrounded by a supporting cast throughout his career he would have already hoisted the Cup.

Iginla is truly the prototypical hockey player—he scores, hits, fights, and dishes the puck as good as any player in the league.

The Flames are constant Cup contenders thanks to their captain, who can be counted on to score close to forty goals a season apparently no matter who he plays with.

It would be tough to find a better all-around player who has done more for his team since wearing the "C" than Calgary's number 12, Jarome Iginla.

Bringing Up The Heat: The Calgary Flames Could Use Leland Irving

Daniel Sallows — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:43:24 -0400

To say there is anything wrong with the 7-2-1 Calgary Flames so far this season may be like calling Nickelback a horrible band; they may be bad but they continue to be at the top of the charts.

The Flames, though at the top of the standings in the Western Conference, have not had great goaltending from the duo of Miikka Kiprusoff and Curtis Mcelhinney.

Yes, there have been spurts where "Kipper" has looked like the elite goaltender that carried Calgary into the 2003-04 Stanley Cup, but with a goals against average of 3.10 and a save percentage of just over .900 he is hardly the same player.

After four straight first round exits, waiting for Kiprusoff to shine in the playoffs again has been like waiting for Macaulay Culkin to revitalize his acting career.

Then there is Curtis Mcelhinney, who has gone 1-9-1 in his NHL career, and this season has a goals against average of 4.00 and save percentage of .862.

A win for Mcelhinney is about as rare as Halley's Comet.

So with this being said, why would the Flames decide to send Leland Irving back to the farm to suit up for the Abbotsford Heat this season?

Yes, he is just 21 years of age, but his resume is pretty impressive.

Last season the kid won 24 games and had a remarkable 2.23 goals against average with the Quad City Flames of the AHL.

He has won at the junior level as well, capturing a gold medal in 2007 with Team Canada at the IIHF World Junior Tournament in Leksand, Sweden.

He also looked pretty good in preseason, but then again so did Theoren Fleury.

The Flames will say he needs to develop his game in the minors, and yes you don't want to rush a good young goaltender so he becomes the next Jim Carey, Andrew Raycroft, or more recently Carey Price.

But along with being a good young tender, Leland also battled cancer and won, something that can build character far beyond ones years.

I guess if it ain't broke don't fix it, and the Calgary Flames at 7-2-1 this season definitely are not.

Though something just tells me if the Flames hope to get to "the Promised Land" they may need to get Leland first.

Flames On Fire But Who Can Stoke Jokinen

Daniel Sallows — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:34:06 -0400

In recent years I have come to expect the worse from Calgary Flames clubs whom have been great in the regular season, only to underachieve in the playoffs.

It has been as disappointing as watching an early 1990's episode of Saturday Night Live then immediately watching one from the late 90's.

In fact the Flames strike an eery resemblance to Brent Sutter's high scoring New Jersey Devils team that was eliminated in the first round of last season's playoffs.

So yes I have become a pessimistic fan, at times looking for a weakness on a club that has started the season with an impressive 7-2-1 record.

No, it isn't notorious slow-starter Jarome Iginla that has me unnerved.

No, it isn't even the inconsistent play of Miikka Kiprusoff.

What has me alarmed is the lackluster performance of the five million dollar man Olli Jokinen, which seems to be overshadowed by Iginla's struggles out of the gate.

At times he has been about as noticeable as David Hasselhoff's singing career.

So what gives?

Is he the big dominating 30 goal centerman that the Flames acquired last March, or did he and Dustin Penner somehow switch bodies like in that Lindsay Lohan movie Freaky Friday ?

Yeah that's right I had a thing for Lindsay Lohan, let's not get sidetracked. I'm a guy what can I say.

If Jokinen can't get a fire ignited under his arse, then the decision to let Mike Cammalleri walk was all for not.

So now what does Darryl Sutter do?

In recent history not too many teams have hoisted the Stanley Cup without a bona-fied number one centerman.

It is highly unlikely any teams would touch a player making five million who is on pace for eight goals.

Maybe Brian Burke would be interested?

It is a long season and it is very possible that Olli Jokinen can turn this thing around, though the feeling in my gut says it's about as likely as Marcy Playground coming out with a number one hit ever again.

One has to wonder just how good this installment of the Calgary Flames could be if Jokinen was rolling.

Until then Flames fans are going to have to just put up with number 21, which at times is as painful as watching Jessica Simpson perform in her fat pants.

Don't Call It a Comeback: What Was Fleury's Attempt All About?

Daniel Sallows — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 20:46:16 -0400

Recently I have been having problems sleeping, and this time it's not because I'm wondering how Ron Jeremy has slept with so many hot women, but rather the fact I don't know what the whole Theoren Fleury comeback attempt was all about?

Did he want to play again, or didn't he?

Is anyone else confused?

Maybe if Fleury didn't make an impact, score a shoot-out game winner, and score a goal and three assists good for third best on the team I wouldn't be so confused.

Who knows, maybe blocking a slap shot with my face and breaking my jaw a few years back did a lot more damage than I had originally thought.

Sure Fleury, at times, looked like his legs weren't there, but he was hardly a defensive liability finishing at +4 which was good for second on the team.

One has to think that twenty games in the minors would have surely improved his game, as well as bring a whirlwind of fans and media to the new affiliate in Abbotsford.

The Flames didn't want to make room for him on the Heat because they wanted their prospects to play. Let's face it, only a handfull of players in the minors are ever going to make the jump to the NHL, its the sad reality of any pro sport, so why not send him to the AHL?

Never has a pre-season NHL game had such an atmosphere than the ones that the Flames version of "mighty mouse" suited up for.

It basically was what I would imagine it to be like if Guns and Roses ever reunited.

Maybe with the details of Theoren's book "Playing with Fire", coming out the Flames didn't want the media circus distracting the club, but if that was the case, wasn't their any other teams interested in Fleury's services?

Last time I checked the Leafs and Islanders were still winless.

You would have to believe Fleury's veteran leadership and true love of playing the game would be infectious to the young players.

The Hockey News recently ranked Theo's comeback attempt as the number one 2009-10 pre-season performance, yet it wasn't good enough to stick.

Maybe I've watched too many Disney movies, but something just doesn't make sense.

Was it all for not just to publicize his new book?

I guess I may never know.

I guess I shouldn't really care.

But really, what else is there to talk about on yet another Sunday without and NHL game...

Top 10 Things Wrong With The NHL

Daniel Sallows — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:25:17 -0400

Growing up playing hockey, I could never understand why the game wasn't more popular south of the border.

If you go to any Rangers or Red Wings game the fans will tell you differently, but the fact is the NHL isn't on many Americans radar.

In the tradition of getting a rise outta readers I decided to compose a list of 10 things I feel are wrong with the "Coolest Game on Earth," in no particular order.

10. The Throwback Jersey's Should Just Be "The Jersey"

Okay, is it just me or do the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers and Buffalo Sabres "throwback jerseys" look alot sharper than their new ones?

And what's with the Vancouver Canucks' blue and green with a whale? I liked it the first time when it was called the Harftford Whalers. Too bad there aren't whales in Carolina, their symbol looks like a Franz Kline painting.

At least the New York Islanders have got it right—hopefully more teams jump on board.

9. Gary Bettman

Are there not any knowledgeable hockey fans who have a law and business degree out there?

Everytime this guy comes out to hand over the Stanley Cup, I can't help but thinking it's like watching INXS with a new lead singer: it just doesn't work.

8. The No-Trade Clause Loophole

I don't mind when a player gets a "no-trade clause" put in his contract, but when that player demands a trade he shouldn't be given the right to reject it.

Dany Heatley should have been an Oiler, but after Milan Michalek's performance the other night I'm sure Sens' fans ain't complainin'.

7. The Salary Cap

Anyone who watched the Calgary Flames' last game of the 2008-09 season will know that the salary cap isn't working.

The Flames got hit with a rash of injuries and, facing cap issues, could only dress three lines for the game. It was just embarrassing.

6. NHL Players at the Olympics

Sorry Ovechkin and Malkin, but the Olympic break just makes for a more compressed schedule, which means more tired and injured players over the long haul.

As a Canadian fan, I like when the best in the world come together. But why not resurect the Canada Cup tournament every four years then?

Besides, the Canadian team won two silver medals the last time the NHL wasn't involved, and no American fan can argue the "Miracle on Ice" wasn't one of the most amazing victories in team sports.

Let the non-pros play.

5. The Overtime Loss Point

In no other sport does a team lose and gain a point.

All this does is create a league where everyone is over .500, which to me ruins the entire meaning of watching pro sports.

It's like having an happy ending everytime you watch a movie.

Besides, it divides the true hockey fan from the fake one—the Leafs and Habs will sell out regardless if their teams stink.

It's only a matter of time before they get good once again.

4. The Shoot-Out

Okay, so you like to see the breakaway.

Since eliminating the two-line pass rule there have been a few more, and every time a player is tripped or hooked up on a play that was going to be a breakway, it should be an automatic penalty shot.

So why do we need to watch this decide a game in the regular season?

Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, and it has ties.

If you are one of these people who absolutely needs to see a winner at the end of a hockey game or you won't be happy, maybe you should be watching re-runs of The Partridge Family instead.

3. The Instigating Rule

Generally, fans stand at games for two reasons...the anthem, and a fight!

Since the instigating rule came into effect, the players definitely don't play with the same respect they had in the 80s—where if you did hit a player like Wayne Gretzky, you may not only get beat down by Dave Semenko, you also may never play another shift or game in the NHL...see Bill McCreary.

Can you imagine what Sidney Crosby could do if he wasn't getting run every shift?

2. Not Enough Canadian Teams

In my eyes there should be a team in Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Hamilton, and Quebec, as Canada is still the NHL's bread and butter.

With a league that still toys with the notion of putting a team in Las Vegas, it isn't any wonder they move teams from Winnipeg to Phoenix.

Another reason to get rid of Bettman and the powers that be I suppose, as they are about as good at running the NHL as Star Jones would be at running a marathon.

I could write an entire article devoted to the reasons for Canadian expansion, but I'm sure it be all too obvious. Besides, most of my time is spent wondering why Jennifer Aniston can't keep a boyfriend.

1. Too Many Penalties/Power Plays

I like most of the clutching and grabbing rules, but it makes players dive or drop their sticks as soon as they feel the slightest touch, which makes for a ton of penalties and, in turn, a ton of power plays that slow down the pace of the game considerably.

Let's face it, the best hockey periods are played in the playoffs in overtime, when the refs put their whistles away unless there is something blatant.

Kimberley Dynamiters: Junior Hockey's Best Kept Secret

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 17:12:07 -0400

The KIJHL (Kootenay International Junior Hockey League), has been a breeding ground for NHLers for the better part of fifty years.

Players such as Greg Adams, Ray Ferraro, Adam Deadmarsh, Chuck Kobasew, Barret Jackman and Shea Weber just to name a few, have skated in the Jr.B barns and started honing their craft at an early age in league.

Just north of the U.S. border sits the second highest city in Canada, a gem that overlooks the beautiful Kootenay River Valley and the Rocky Mountains to the east...the junior hockey hotbed of Kimberley B.C.

It is there the Kimberley Dynamiters play in front of cheering hometown crowds at the Civic Centre.

For those whom have never witnessed a junior hockey game it is here where hockey is played at it's purest and most passionate. This is where players and coaches alike are competing for the true love of the game.

The rich hockey history was bolstered by the 1936 Kymberley Drillers that won the Alan Cup, then represented Canada in the 1937 World Championships in London England.

The Drillers took home gold, going undefeated in 8 straight games and outscored the competition 60-4.

In recent years the club has turned out NHLers Dave Scatchard, Drayson Bowman and homegrown grads Mike McBain and Jason Wiemer.

Kimberley has also sent a long list of players to the BCJHL, WHL and the Collegiate route, giving them credibility as a solid junior hockey organization.

For players looking to take the next step, there are few better places to play than the "City of Festivals".

Now it is a new group of youngsters that look to follow in the footsteps of past Nitro greats.

Names like Corey Allen, Mike Nelson and youngster Taylor McDowell hope to be the recent Dynamiters to make the jump to the next level, and be the role models for the hockey players of tomorrow.

There is something to be said for the Coaches and volunteers whom devote their time to the junior leagues of hockey, and for some of the best look no further than the "Bavarian City of the Rockies", Kimberley B.C.

Maybe the best kept secret in junior hockey?

Though I may have just let that secret out.

The Great Canadian Hope: Who Has The Best Chance Of Hoisting The Cup

Daniel Sallows — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 22:51:37 -0400

With the opening of the NHL regular season just a week away I thought it was a good time to make some predictions, even though I've been more miss then hit lately.

I thought I'd take a look at the Canadian clubs, and who might be the best hope to bring Lord Stanley's Mug back to the great white north.

6. Calgary Flames

There isn't much to like about this year's installment of the Calgary Flames.

Mikka Kiprusoff continues to be on the decline, and as good as their defense looks with the addition of Jay Bouwmeester it will do very little to help a weak offensive attack that drops off considerably after Jarome Iginla and Olli Jokinen.

The Flames are looking to rely heavily on Nigel Dawes and Curtis Glencross to fill the void left by Mike Cammalleri, but lets face it the two have just 54 goals between them in 278 NHL games played with 7 different clubs.

Letting Fleury and his four points and plus four rating in four pre-season tilts was not a bright move considering he may have been the only positive on an otherwise very lackluster team.

Look for the Flames to finish 8th in the West and bow out in the first-round of the playoffs once again, it may be the only thing that is a guarantee now-a-days.

5. Montreal Canadiens

It isn't too often a team makes a complete roster over-haul then makes an impression in the playoffs that season.

That will reign true for the Habs unfortunately.

While the Canadiens did get some fresh young legs to replace Saku Koivu and Alexei Kovalev, they did not gain any size or heart which has been a lot of the teams downfall in recent years.

To make matters worse the defense got older and slower with the additions of Hal Gill and Jaroslav Spacek, which should make it even tougher for Carey Price to rebound from a horrendous season.

In the end the Canadiens spent too much on the free agent market and should have spent the next few seasons in a rebuild phase similar to the Leafs.

4. Ottawa Senators

The Sens could go either way this season as they have seemed to be consistent underachievers since making the Cup finals in 2007.

But all signs point to a resurrection this season as the Senators have made some moves to get deeper even though they were forced to do so.

The addition of Alexei Kovalev, Jonathan Cheechoo and the best of the three in Milan Michalek, who at 24 years old could end up being a Hossa-like thoroughbred, will give the Sens a much needed boost of offense.

Ottawa has a congestion of puck-moving defenseman and may need more grit at the back end, but if their goaltenders Pascal Leclaire and Brian Elliott can play to their potential the Sens could be a dangerous team once again.

3. Edmonton Oilers

All in all the Edmonton Oilers underachieved last season due to injuries, uninspired play and a bit of the sophomore jinx to their stable of young phenoms.

Look for that to change this season with the subtle moves made by Steve Tambellini and company.

Nikolai Khabibulin carried the Chicago Blackhawks into the semi-finals last season, and at 36 years of age he is an upgrade on the 40 year old Roloson.

Pat Quinn and Tom Renney may represent the odd couple of NHL coaching tandems, but it may make sense as Renney is a doctor of the game and loves to coach the youth movement. While Quinn has always had a knack with the veterans.

If Mike Comrie continues to play with a fire lit under his arse, and Cogliano, Gagner, Penner and company can play to their potential then the possibilities are endless with this speedy Oiler squad.

Though that may be just too many if's?

2. Toronto Maple Leafs

What a difference a year makes, but Toronto looks like a team built to contend in the playoffs after a little less than a year under the Brian Burke regime.

The goaltending is vastly improved with the addition of the "Monster" Jonas Gustavsson, which will only be enhanced by one of the best defense core's in the league.

It is yet to be seen if the "Frat Line"(Tyler Bozak, Christian Hanson and Viktor Stalberg), can endure the rigors of an 82 game schedule, but they will have to as the offense will be resting squarely on the shoulders of new acquisition Phil Kessel otherwise.

If the Leafs can score by committee, and the defense lives up to the hype, then Toronto is in real good shape to make a run.

Leafs fans should thank Ron Wilson and Brian Burke for being the NHL's version of "Pinky" and "the Brain".

1. Vancouver Canucks

This may finally be the year that the Vancouver Canucks relinquish their playoff demons.

The Nucks have looked stellar in pre-season play so far and all signs point to a Western Conference championship considering the west isn't home to the powerhouses any longer.

Vancouver can beat you in many ways including their strong transition game, thanks to the speed of their forwards. With the additions of Mikael Samuelsson and rookies Cody Hodgson and Sergei Shirokov the forward units just got a little deeper, meaning they can beat you with all four lines.

If the defense falters it doesn't hurt that the Canucks can lean on their captain and best goaltender in the league Roberto Luongo.

The Nucks biggest test in the west may just be the upstart Chicago Blackhawks, but it remains to be seen if Christobal Huet has what it takes to lead a team deep into the playoffs.

Either way the Vancouver Canucks will have the pride of Canada on their backs this season, as maybe the best shot at bringing the Cup home.

Wayne Gretzky Is Partly To Blame For Phoenix Coyotes' Woes

Daniel Sallows — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:00:02 -0400

Okay so the "Great One" stepped down as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes, and we should all feel sorry for him because he may not get his $8 million paycheck this season as the Coyotes are to be sold as soon as the Balsillie/Bettman circus is settled.

On that note, Gretzky could have remained with the club, but could not picture himself and his family living in Hamilton if the Jim Balsillie bid was indeed accepted.

A big kick in the ass to the people who reside in Steeltown, and to Canada in my opinion. When the Gretzky group bought into the Phoenix Coyotes in 2001, what were they thinking exactly?

That their presence alone could give the desert dogs a fan base like that of the Winnipeg Jets; even though the Coyotes had been in Arizona for just five years and were already in financial trouble.

If you really wanted some return for your investment Wayne, why wouldn't you buy into the Oilers when they were in trying times?

I'm not against the NHL expanding to the US, I mean, I'd love to be able to go to Vegas, catch Cirque du soleil, Celine Dion, and then finish the weekend off at a hockey game.

But the entire notion of NHL expansion to the States is like the "good naked, bad naked" episode of Seinfeld. Giving Minnesota a team was good naked, putting one in Phoenix was bad naked.

This entire matter has now become Gary Bettman's personal vendetta to prove he wasn't wrong to allow the team to relocate from Winnipeg to Phoenix, making him about as credible as the NHL commissioner as Snoop Dogg would be writing children's books.

The fact is, Mr. Bettman and Mr. Gretzky, Canada is your meal ticket, and should have teams in Quebec City, Winnipeg, Hamilton, and Saskatoon for that matter.

Yeah maybe it isn't forty degree's outside all year round, but last time I checked you need cold to make ice.

So yes I feel bad that Wayne won't get his $8 million, and Gary will be proved wrong, but maybe it will be a good reality check for the powers that be in the National Hockey League.

Canada loves hockey...why can't hockey love it back?

Theoren Fleury's Top 10 Great Moments

Daniel Sallows — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 00:34:20 -0400

With Theoren Fleury one step closer to returning to the NHL I thought it was a good time to count down some of the highlights (in no particular order), to an impressive career by the little big man.

10. Oct. 15th, 2005 (Belfast Giants Debut)

Though at this point Fleury had been banished from the NHL in 2003 and his personal life was turbulent to say the least, he signed on to play in the British Elite league with the Belfast Giants.

Fleury scored three goals and added four assists, to go along with two fights and helped his new team to a big win over the Edinburgh Capitals.

9. Jan. 4th, 1987 (Punch-up in Piestany)

After Canada had ensured themselves a medal at the 1987 World Junior Tournament, Fleury got involved in a fight that led to a bench clearing brawl against the Soviets.

Both teams were inevitably ejected from the tournament costing Canada a medal.

8. Apr. 24th, 1991 (Game 6 Over-time Winner Against the Oilers)

Though the Edmonton Oilers would eventually beat their provincial rivals in an epic playoff battle, Theoren Fleury scored his first goal of the series in over-time in game 6 on a Mark Messier give away.

What capped the moment off will be burned in Oilers, Flames and NHL fans memories for years as Fleury raced across the ice, slid on his knees and flipped into the boards in one of the most famous celebrations in NHL history.

7. (1991 Canada Cup)

After being a long-shot to make the club, Fleury was added to the Team Canada roster for the 1991 Canada Cup where he was sat out the first game (a 2-2 tie against team Finland).

Fleury was quickly brought into the line-up for the teams game against the USA and they never looked back, as he picked up five points in seven games, helping Canada to their last Canada Cup win.

6. Aug. 9th, 2008 (Calgary Viper Baseball Debut)

After signing a one game contract to play pro baseball with the Calgary Vipers, in which Fleury donated the proceeds to Calgary Children's Charities, Theo came in as a pinch hitter for Jorge Tang during the bottom of the fifth inning.

In his first at-bat Fleury hit a single right up the middle and drew cheers from the fans.

Maybe the moment that made him miss the spotlight and attempt an NHL come back?

5. (1988 World Junior Championships)

After being ejected the previous year the Canadian squad and Theoren Fleury had something to prove as they took gold in the 1988 World Junior Hockey Championships in Moscow.

Fleury was named a tournament all-star.

4. (1990-'91 50 goal season)

Just three years after many thought Theoren Fleury was too small to play in the NHL, the leagues version of mighty mouse made it clear that he was not only big enough but also one of the leagues most skilled players as he picked up 51 goals and 53 assists in 79 games.

3. (2002 Winter Olympic Games)

After many were unsure of Theoren Fleury's mental state in the 2001-'02 season, Gretzky and company decided to take a chance on No. 14, and it paid off as his energetic style of play helped team Canada to a gold medal.

It was the first time in fifty years that Canada had won gold.

2. (1989 Stanley Cup)

What is to always be known as the "C" of Champions, a then rookie Theoren Fleury added a dynamic that the Calgary Flames did not have and helped them to their first and only Stanley Cup victory.

In the process the Fleury legend was born.

1. Sept. 10th, 2009 (The NHL reinstates Theoren Fleury)

After six years away from the league that made him a star, Gary Bettman reinstated Theoren Fleury so that he could go out finally on his own terms as a pro hockey player.

The Calgary Flames invited him to camp the following day as the team felt he had been meeting all their off-ice training requirements.

Good luck Theo, I'm sure I speak for numerous fans that are anticipating you back in the Flames "C" of red!