Bleacher Report - Articles by Shane Morin-Farraway

Contraction: Could It Help the NHL?

Shane Morin-Farraway — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 22:37:40 -0500

With continued reports that the Phoenix Coyotes are losing money, and with a Globe and Mail report stating that at least 11 out of the 30 NHL clubs lost money during the 2007-2008 season, it's time the NHL took a bold step as the world heads towards the looming economic crisis.

Contraction.

Contraction may be a dirty little word for the NHL and Gary Bettman, but it is something that can no longer be ignored, for the health of the NHL, as well as other pro hockey leagues.

With teams such as the Phoenix Coyotes potentially facing crippling losses at the end of this season, it leaves many wondering how they could be economically viable in upcoming seasons.

With the team on the verge, according to the Globe and Mail report, of losing between $25-35 million dollars, the NHL has many questions it must ask itself in the coming years:

- Where does hockey fit in the North American landscape?

- How economically viable does the league believe it will be?

- Which markets work?

It is clear that hockey is a niche sport within the North American sports hierarchy. It does not have the "Sunday ritual", like football. It can be perceived boring by the basketball crowd. It is also not "America's pastime", like baseball is.

Hockey has primarily settled itself as a northern sport. Tradition, more than anything dictates so.

Canada and the northern United States have embraced all aspects of hockey, from the 6 a.m. practice to playing outdoors during the winter time. It is a tradition that is stable in these parts, and will continue to be.

When the NHL started to expand in 1967, its goals were much like the goals of other professional sports leagues at the time: to cash in on television rights.

To a certain extent, it did so in the early part of the 1970s, and markets such as Los Angeles, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Minnesota embraced hockey and its culture.

Each sport in North America has tried its luck in markets that it forecast it would do well in; or in some cases, let an owner do what they wanted to do with their franchise.

For instance, the NBA has tried its luck in markets such as Buffalo, Vancouver, and San Diego; to very little success.

Al Davis, the owner of the Oakland Raiders, moved his team freely between Los Angeles and Oakland, to the dismay of many fans.

The NHL, in the 31 years since its initial expansion, has clearly found which markets have embraced the NHL, and which haven't.

How Could Contraction be Beneficial?

It these coming economic times, downsizing will become the norm. Companies will become more efficient.

The NHL should follow the model of corporate America and create a stable economic future for itself. It needs to downsize.

If the NHL, for instance, were to downsize from 30 to 26 teams, the league would see an increase in skill and athleticism in its players. The skill set would dramatically improve on each team, depending of course on how coaches would intend on using those players.

Although the NHL is already a highly competitive league, parity would be even greater league-wide, where perhaps final games in the season could depend on playoff berths, something the NHL hasn't seen since the Original Six.

Apart from league wide parity and improved skill, the NHL's downsizing could also benefit its feeder leagues and Major Junior hockey in Canada.

The AHL, the NHL's primary minor league, has long been a staging ground for many future NHL stars. Should the league downsize, its talent level would also increase.

Outside of, once again, better quality hockey, the AHL would perhaps finally establish itself in mid-level markets, borderline markets still searching for an NHL team.

Cities such as Hamilton, Milwaukee, Hartford, and Winnipeg; who all currently harbor AHL teams, have long been rumoured to be searching for an NHL team. Should the NHL downsize, there would no longer be a need for relocation or expansion. These cities could finally, perhaps, identify with their AHL teams. Especially Hamilton.

Major Junior hockey within the three leagues in Canada, as well as NCAA hockey in the States may see a boost in longevity for certain star players.

Instead of players perhaps leaving the year they are drafted, teams could milk the system a little longer and truly develop their players.

Imagine if Steven Stamkos could get an extra year of junior, as well as a year in the AHL instead of being rushed foolishly by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

With the skill level raised throughout all of the minor leagues, hockey could see a rebirth on the local level.

Who To Contract?

The new goal of the NHL should be to establish itself within the markets that they know work, therefore the northern United States and Canada.

The six Canadian teams are by far some of the strongest revenue-wise in the league. The Rangers, Flyers, Capitals, Bruins, Blackhawks, Red Wings, Penguins, and Sabres are all well established in their respective cities and have, save for the last two, strong and stable ownership.

Markets, such as Dallas, Anaheim, San Jose, and Los Angeles are working well in non-traditional hockey markets.

Columbus and Minnesota have been two of the NHL's stronger expansion franchises in the last 15 years, and their respective futures in their cities look bright.

Carolina, Tampa Bay, the Islanders, and the Devils have all won cups, and even though their fan base is dwindling and attendance is low in certain of these, history should guarantee their safety and security in their respective cities.

These 26 teams have all established themselves in viable hockey markets. Which leaves us with four possible candidates for retraction: Atlanta, Florida, Nashville, and Phoenix.

Although it could be argued that these teams have a chance to succeed in their respective markets, tradition dictates otherwise. The NHL, when all has been said and done, have failed in their Southern ventures.

By ridding itself of these franchises, the NHL sets itself up to succeed in its traditional markets, its core strengths, and even do there is a lot of money to be had in expansion, the NHL needs to re-establish itself with its core American base, in the northern part of the country, before it committees once again to expansion.

What To Do With the Players?

A waiver draft is the easiest way to settle the problems arising from retraction. A waiver draft, conducted perhaps like the entry draft where the last place team gets first pick, could be a practical decision for the NHL.

Would a team, such as the Islanders if it were to take place today, secure its present success with someone like Ilya Kovalchuk from Atlanta? Or would they perhaps build for the future by taking Peter Mueller from the Coyotes.

The networks, at least in Canada, would make a whole week out of it.

Overall

If the NHL were to retract, it would perhaps be saving itself from pending doom.

As leagues such as the WNBA and the Arena Football League start to fold, and with the economic outlook still predicting gloom and doom, hockey needs to start to realize its professional place in the spectrum of sport.

With better and more skillful players, stronger markets, and stronger interest in the game, there is no reason not to believe that the NHL could rebuild its status as a respectable sport in the United States, and perhaps through that it will gain what it has always been searching for: the elusive American fan.

Carey Price, Jaroslav Halak: Goaltending Duos Have Worked in the Past—And Now?

Shane Morin-Farraway — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:50:24 -0500

Taken fifth overall in the "Sidney Crosby" draft of 2005, Carey Price has been the face of the goaltending future for the Montreal. The club has staked its future in Price.

Taken 271st overall in the "Alexander Ovechkin" draft of 2003, Jaroslav Halak has been a solid goaltending prospect within the organization. The club believes they have great depth with Halak.

Price and Halak have become Montreal's top goaltending prospects, the likes of which the club has not had since both Jose Theodore and Tomas Vokoun were highly touted prospects within the organization.

With the recent struggles of Price, it has been stated many times within the Bleacher Report community that perhaps he is overrated—that he has been partying too much.

It has also been rumored that perhaps his injury was more severe that he let on, or that his new red pads, worn since he returned from injury, were affecting his play.

Whatever the case may be, for now, Halak has been playing above and beyond expectations, and that is not a bad thing; for the Montreal Canadiens or Price.

Looking Back: How History Can Solve Montreal's Current Dilemma

Price, who has been referred to as "Jesus Price" by some, has been christened Montreal's next saviour by the media and fans alike.

Although this can be fairly warranted by his play during the 2006-07 World Junior Championships and the Hamilton Bulldogs' Calder Cup run of 2007 as well as his play during the 2007-08 NHL regular season, something was a miss during the Canadiens' playoff run.

Although it could be suggested that Price has perhaps played too much hockey in the last two seasons, it would be unfair at this point to call him overrated, or even washed up. Mike Toth even stated on sportsnet.ca that Price could perhaps be the next Jim Carey.

As a student of history, and an aspiring history teacher, I have learned that we can take a look at the future by looking at the past, and Montreal's current goaltending solution could be solved by one easy solution: a goaltending tandem.

Although it has never been stated by either Bob Gainey or Guy Carbonneau, it has always been assumed that Price is the Montreal Canadiens starting goaltender, with Halak as his backup.

This is an acceptable situation, with logic being that a goaltender as young as Price may need a moral boost to play to his potential. This logic worked through December 2008.

Although there are some teams that use the same goaltender on a consistent basis, Montreal can clearly not be one of them, and it shows throughout the last three decades. Gainey and Carbonneau only have to reflect on their past careers to potentially solve any goaltenidng controversies that may arise in Montreal in the near future.

The Last Glory Years

Once Ken Dryden came back from his year-long hold out during the 1974-75 season, he would start a streak—along with Bunny Larocque—as great goaltending tandems in the Canadiens history.

During the 1973-74 season, Gainey's first as a Hab, the Canadiens were missing Dryden, who was finishing his law requirements while holding out in a contract dispute. Dryden believed he deserved a boost in salary due to a Calder, Vezina, and Stanley Cup in previous seasons.

In 1973-74 Gainey experienced first hand how a team could potentially thrive and compete without much scoring or a solidified No. 1 tending the net.

On a team where the highest point producer only reached 80 points, Wayne Thomas, Bunny Larocque, and Michel Plasse helped lead the Habs to a 99 point season—not bad for a team without its superstar goalkeeper.

After his return from holding out, Dryden solidified himself as Montreal`s primary option in net.

It is interesting, in theory, to compare Dryden to the era`s other top keepers.

Goaltenders such as Gerry Cheevers, Bernie Parent, and Tony Esposito, among others, would play in the majority of their team's games with all three leading their teams to Stanley Cup finals, with Parent capturing back to back Cups in 1974 and 1975. Cheevers won with the Bruins in the early 70s.

This theory, however, was not used by Scotty Bowman. Bowman only played Dryden in more than 60 games once in a season during their consecutive Cup run during the late 1970s. Bowman used Dryden and Larocque as more of a duo than stating one as his primary keeper.

Recently, I`ve read Dryden's memoirs, The Game. He makes no mention of wanting to play more than Bunny, or that he was jealous when Larocque played.

Dryden, it seems, relished the concept of a team: playing together for a common goal.

Gainey was a part of this theory, and he saw, throughout the late 1970s, that a goaltending tandem works.

Dryden played in 56, 62, 56, 52, and 47 games off his return in 1974-75 until his retirement in 1979. Larocque suited up for 25, 22, 26, 30, and 34 games during that same time frame, fairly even numbers for a 1A and 1B tandem.

In theory, Dryden and Larocque preformed admirably, although it was not that rough with a Hall of Fame cast ahead of them.

The two captured four Vezina* trophies together during their time together as a duo, numbers that reflected more on teamwork than anything else.

If one of the greatest hockey talents, as well as a brilliant hockey mind, did not mind the fact that he was being rested both mentally and physically for a grueling playoff toll, why could this theory not work in the present?

The Lost Years: 1980-1986

When Dryden retired in 1979, there was worry about how the team would perform. With the defection of Scotty Bowman to the Buffalo Sabres, Montreal was left without its architect and its playoff rock in net.

Although the time between their Stanley Cup in 1979 and the one in 1986 did not bring much playoff success for the Habs; advancing past the second round once, they did however have success in net.

Two important things happened to the Canadiens during the 1980-81 season: Gainey was named as captain of the team and a Vezina trophy awarded for its trio of goaltenders.

Bunny Larocque, Richard Sevigny, and Dennis Herron helped lead the team to a third place overall finish—capturing a Vezina Trophy for their efforts.

Montreal continued its success in net the next season, with Rick Wamsley and Dennis Herron capturing the inaugural William M. Jennings Trophy, awarded to the goaltender(s) with the fewest goals scored against.

The capture of the Jennings, as well as the Vezina before that, signified that Montreal was working as a team. Although they were having success during the regular season, they could not regain the same type of success that they had with Dryden, that is until Patrick Roy came along.

By the time the 1985-86 season had rolled around, Gainey had experience both the highs and lows of being a Montreal Canadien. He had experienced the glory of the late 1970s, and the painful lost years of the early 1980s.

Although he had seen the highs and lows of the organization, it was clearly evident that the backbone of the organization was in the use of a goaltender tandem.

When 1985-86 season started, Montreal was in much of the same situation it was in years past, only this time with different players in net.

A trio of goaltenders: Steve Penney, Patrick Roy, and Doug Soetart, helped lead the Canadiens to the playoffs, however it was during those playoffs that Roy separated himself from the three as the Canadiens' top keeper. His separation was short lived.

Much like Price`s early success, Roy did the same. He won a Calder Cup in 1985 as the Sherbrooke Canadiens goaltender—as Price did with the Bulldogs. Montreal, however, seemed to give Roy someone who could take some of the load and pressure off of his shoulders, something the Habs have only recently done.

The Lamborghini and the Cadillac

Francois Allaire, Montreal`s revolutionary goaltending coach, once compared Roy and Hayward as the Lamborghini and the Cadillac.

Roy was the Lambo: fast, flashy, stylish, and a wild card.

Hayward was the Cadillac: efficient, timeless, and reliable.

Allaire said that if you wanted an exciting night, go with Roy. For a more relaxed and steady time, go with Hayward. Whatever the case, both Carbonneau and Gainey were able to witness first hand how two great goaltenders could work together to both better themselves as well as the team.

Between 1986 and 1990, Hayward and Roy captured three straight Jennings trophies under two different head coaches, both of which would employ the duo almost equally. Roy played in 46, 45, 48, and 54 games a season, while Hayward played in 37, 39, 36, and 29 before he ultimately left the Canadiens.

Roy and Hayward, although at odds at times, suited each other as goaltending partners, showcasing two different styles that worked for the team.

Unlike Bowman`s reign where Dryden played all of the postseason, the Canadiens—under Jean Perron—were not such a team. Perron used the hot hand, a theory which at times worked during the regular season, but cost games during the playoffs for the team.

Burns, on the other hand, utilized both during the regular season, but favoured Roy heavily during the playoffs, a change of theory.

How Does History Help?

By looking at three different times in Montreal Canadiens history, it is easy to see that a goaltending duo has been the norm for the organization for the past 25 years, no matter who was in net.

The duos; and at times trios, of Canadiens' goaltenders may not have always been rich in name, but they fed off of one another and performed on a nightly basis, something the current crop is not doing.

At this point, it would be rather naive to suggest that either Price or Halak should be mentioned in the same breath as Hall of Famers such as Dryden and Roy.

One could compare Price`s early success to that of Roy, and how the organization did not fully trust their young stud so to say.

Although the Habs did trade Cristobal Huet away at last year's deadline, they have kept Halak despite numerous offers for the young keeper to improve other areas of the team—much like how Hayward was brought in after a Calder Cup and Stanley Cup in consecutive seasons by Roy.

If Roy and Halak could be used in a system such as Roy and Hayward were used during the tenure of both Gainey and later Carbonneau as captains of the team in the late 1980s, then this team could potentially rebound in the short term by using the "hot hand" so to say, as well as in the long term.

Had Hayward never pushed Roy for playing time, would Roy have become one of the greatest goaltenders of the past half century?

Hayward's presence, as well as the fact that both Jean Perron and Pat Burns did not let either goalie take starting for granted, allowed both men to compete to their fullest potential. It is through that competitive rivalry that Roy solidified himself as a No. 1 goaltender and All-Star in the NHL.

Price and Halak could become a new age Roy and Hayward—in their own way. Halak's recent emergence during Price's struggles has made the Canadiens brass re-think any possible trading scenario he could have been in.

Should Price and Halak become a 1A and 1B in Montreal, like they should be, the Canadiens could start to develop a bond, or at least build towards the future.

In either case, if Price and Halak were developed much in the way Roy was, with a competitor around, one could step up and solidify his place within the team—like Roy did in the 1989 Cup Finals, playing in 19 of the 21 games. Once Roy established himself, Hayward was expendable.

Down the road the Gainey led Habs could do the same thing if either Halak or Price perform better than the other. For the meantime, a tandem should be in Montreal's plans, and in its best interests.

There will be growing pains in any event, with Price and Halak only being 21 and 23 years old respectively. Canadiens fans can only be patient during these next few years, as the club tries to develop two of the NHL's most promising goaltenders.

Should Gainey and Carbo decide to reflect on their past, they could solidify Montreal's future. As a history student, that's all one can hope for.

*Vezina Trophy was awarded to the goalie(s) with the least amount of goals allowed until 1980-81

Montreal Can Address Its Needs by Calling One Team

Shane Morin-Farraway — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 12:11:40 -0500

With the recent acquisition of Mathieu Schneider and a conditional pick, the Montreal Canadiens and their General Manager, Bob Gainey, are signaling that they are buyers as NHL teams near the Mar. 4 trade deadline.

As posted in previous articles here on the Bleacher Report, many have suggested (I among them) that Montreal is in need of a top flight centreman and some size for both the forwards and the defensemen. Montreal addressed its need of a puck-moving defenseman with the acquisition of Mathieu Schneider on Sunday.

There have long been rumors of a Vincent Lecalvier trade to Montreal, and those rumours have intensified during Montreal's latest train wreck on their Western road trip.

No to Lecalvier

Lecalvier addresses Montreal's current lack of a first-line centre. He has proven that he is a winner and everything that the Montreal Canadiens need. He is also the Francophone hero that the team has lacked since Patrick Roy.

Lecalvier, however, hits the cap at a figure of $10 million dollars for the next seven seasons—his NHL prime so to say. Although Lecalvier may be worth that much money, he would cause the Canadiens to devote one sixth of their payroll to one player—something I cannot see Bob Gainey ever doing.

Along with the cap hit that Lecalvier would be doing to the organization, Tampa Bay would also hold him for ransom if Gainey were to position himself for any possible deal.

Tampa would expect current roster players such as Tomas Plekanec, Chris Higgins, and Josh Gorges, in addition to a prospect such as P.K. Subban and at least one first round draft pick—a price too high to consider.

Although in a perfect, cap-free world, Montreal could afford someone of Lecalvier's stature, in today's NHL, it is a potential franchise crippling contract—one the Canadiens should avoid.

Phoenix fills two voids

Although the Phoenix Coyotes are in the middle of the ultra-competitive Western Conference playoff race, the Coyotes could prove to be sellers near the deadline.

Phoenix has been building its team towards the future. Outside of All-Star forward Shane Doan and goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, perhaps every other veteran on the team could be moved come deadline time.

Although he was traded to Phoenix in the offseason, Olli Jokinen has not produced up to his capabilities or those of the Phoenix Coyotes.

Perhaps after being in Florida so long, it has been hard for him to adapt, but it's clear that the Phoenix Coyotes intend on having Peter Mueller and Kyle Turris as their future centres—not the 29-year-old Jokinen.

Jokinen's usefulness in Montreal will be due to his size and his skill. He is capable of keeping up with Montreal's fastest forwards, and at making room for himself in the corners and in front of the net. At 6'3'' and 214 lbs., he would be the power forward that Montreal is currently lacking, especially up the middle.

Although Jokinen has had a reputation as a lackluster player in the NHL—never reaching the playoffs—he was a key component in the Finnish Olympic hockey team's silver medal—being their No. 1 centre followed by Saku Koivu.

Koivu has the possibility to be a mentor to Jokinen and perhaps a buffer in Montreal's enthusiastic atmosphere. The two Fins would complement each other immensely, with Jokinen's size freeing up room for Saku Koivu and smaller forwards.

Jokinen also only hits Montreal's cap at a figure of $5.5 million next season, allowing the team to potentially re-sign such valuable unrestricted free agents such as Mike Komisarek, Alex Tanguay, and Koivu himself. Jokinen becomes a UFA after the 2010 season.

Jokinen is not the only piece that could potentially help the Canadiens down the home-stretch.

Derek Morris, an up-coming unrestricted free agent at the end of this season and the prototypical defenseman that Montreal is currently lacking; a right-handed shot from the point. Morris also adds size and potential stability to a smallish defensive core when Mike Komisarek is on the bench.

Morris has been through the battles of long playoff races—something which will benefit the Montreal defense. At 29-years-old, Morris still has much to offer and would be an asset for the Canadiens down the stretch.

Who to move?

The two logical options to move, if a Jokinen and Morris deal were to come to fruition, would be to send Tomas Plekanec and Josh Gorges to Phoenix.

Montreal would have to add perhaps a prospect, such as Kyle Chipchura, who would fill a checking line need for the Coyotes—something they lack. P.K. Subban could also be moved in any deal. A first rounder may also be sent.

Logically, Montreal is gaining size for upcoming seasons with Jokinen as a pivot, instead of the disappointing Tomas Plekanec, who needs a change of scenery.

Although Gorges is a serviceable defenseman, he will be easily replaceable for the Canadiens. Should Morris not re-sign, Montreal could finally have a place in their defensive corps for new-comers such as Mathieu Carle and Yannick Weber—two smallish defensemen. Morris could also be an option should Komisarek decide not to re-sign.

Montreal could also afford to lose someone like a Chipchura or even a Sergei Kostitsyn.

Gainey has a lot to do, although perhaps he could fill his shopping list by calling only one team. Jokinen would be a good fit in Montreal, and with Koviu's leadership and encouragement, perhaps, Jokinen could finally realize his potential—living up to his billing as a third overall pick.

Whatever Gainey does, however, should not come at such a steep price. He must realize that he is not only building towards the 2009 playoffs but the future of the organization as well.

Why Bob Gainey's Focus Should Be on Building Toward Next Season

Shane Morin-Farraway — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:28:47 -0500

By all estimates, from the media to bloggers to the bleacher reporters, the Montreal Canadiens 2008-2009 season has been a disaster.

Although many are panicking and hoping for General Manager Bob Gainey to make a trade, myself among them, stating that the Canadiens needed to acquire Sean Avery to add character and size to a small, plain team.

After watching the Canadiens embarrass themselves through two games in Alberta, it is painfully clear that this team is average at best.

Much speculation has been made about acquiring Vincent Lecalvier, and it is perhaps in the works by Bob Gainey. But Lecalvier, should he be acquired, is not the saviour for this season. There needs to be an eye on the future, and that perhaps, Bob Gainey should throw in the towel for this season.

Looking at many of the up-coming restricted and unrestricted free agents, it is obvious who the Canadiens should target as priorities, and others who Bob Gainey should let walk or possibly deal at the deadline.

Alex Kovalev

Mr. Enigma, Kovalev is an up-coming unrestricted free agent, who has been an overall disappointment in Montreal this season.

His passion, character, and heart have all been questioned at certain points this season, and he has shown that he is not a big-game player. After a terrific 2007-2008 campaign where he led the team in goals (35) and points (84), he's only had 13 goals and 39 points this season—surprising since Kovalev has always been considered a player who plays harder during a contract season.

The Kovalev debacle may be a blessing to the organization. Instead of a repeat performance by Kovalev, where he helped to propel players such as Tomas Plekanec and Alexei Kostitsyn to another level last season, all three have looked ordinary and plain, their chemistry completely gone, and none of found that sort of chemistry with anyone else on the team.

Kovalev probably can't be dealt. His reputation as a drifter hurts his trade value. The best Gainey can hope for is a quiet end to a disappointing season, where both the player and organization can go different paths next season. I wouldn't be surprised if Kovalev returned to Russia to end his career.

Mike Komisarek

Mike Komisarek's name has been brought up may times as potential trade bait for any possible scenario involving Vincent Lecalvier. This, in my humble opinion, would be a mistake.

I have no problems accepting Vincent Lecalvier to the Montreal Canadiens organization, but three names should not be included in any possible scenario: Mike Komisarek, Andrei Markov, and Carey Price.

Komisarek's value to the team is unquestionable. At 6'4'' and 243 lbs, Komisarek is Montreal's biggest and most efficient defenseman. He plays 25 minutes a night against the opposition's top players and is a ruthless hitter. Had Komisarek not injured his shoulder in an ill-advised fight against the Bruins Milan Lucic, perhaps Montreal's season is different.

Komisarek is a UFA once the season is over. He made $1.9 million this season, yet is in for a huge pay raise. Montreal should budget around $4 million as a starting point for negotiations with Komisarek. Players like him are a commodity.

Saku Koivu

The Finnish Captain has had his usual type of season. Hurt for a few weeks, play for a few weeks, repeat. As someone making $4.75 million dollars, more has been expected of Koivu, especially after posting respectable numbers the previous season.

Koivu has been playing hurt, but his skill level has diminished. Someone making his type of money has to preform, and sadly, Koivu has not.

Although it would be premature to deal Koivu at the deadline, could this summer be the end of Koivu in Montreal? As a captain, he has never guided the Canadiens past the second round of the playoffs, but that is no fault of his own.

Koivu has always been an inspirational presence on the team, and I feel as if he respects the logo for which he plays for and understands the history involved. If Koivu was willing to take a pay cut, and perhaps play a reduced role as a checking or third line player, I am positive the Canadiens would welcome him back, although this scenario could play out like the Markus Naslund debacle in Vancouver last season.

For all of Saku's class and passion, I would welcome him back, as I'm sure most others would as well.

Alex Tanguay

Alex Tanguay, before his shoulder separation, had 26 points in 34 games, respectable numbers. It has been hard to judge Tanguay's place on the team this season as I personally believe that Tanguay has traditionally played well in a "wing man" role, a perfect compliment to a top centre man, such as his days in Colorado beside Joe Sakic or Peter Forsberg.

That said, if a centreman was acquired at the deadline, or in the off-season, Tanguay would be the perfect compliment.

Tanguay would be worth keeping around next season, as he is a skilled Cup winner, something this team lacks. Tanguay, however, may seek a long term deal, at around his current price of $5.375 million, which may be too much for the Habs to keep around long term.

Steve Begin/Tom Kostopoulos

Steve Begin and Tom Kostopoulos seem like one in the same. Both are gamers, pluggers, a dime a dozen type of player.

If I had to keep one, I would keep Tom Kostopoulos. He's been a consistent hard worker, and his playoff series last Spring against the Bruins demonstrated the kind of character and lunch-pale mentality that Kostopoulos brings to the arena every day.

If I were Bob Gainey, I'd re-sign Kostopoulos. Perhaps give him a raise over the $900,000 he's been making the past two seasons. I'd go as far as $1.5 million for the workhorse.

Steve Begin brings the same kind of character and mentality that Kostopolous brings, yet Begin has been injury prone the past few seasons and he is clearly not the same kind of banger that he was two seasons ago. It looks like Begin has lost a step, and if Gainey could find a taker for Begin, he'd be sure to get a mid-round pick for him. If not, Begin and the team should bid adieu to one another once the season has ended.

Robert Lang

Arguably Robert Lang was Montreal's most consistent and relevant forward until a season ending Achille's Tendon injury ruined what was a productive season.

Lang, brought in to fill a gap down the middle, was a consummate professional during his stay in Montreal. He played many roles for the team, from power play quarterback to penalty-killer, and was a significant cog in their power play.

Lang, at 38, is perhaps worth a look once again. It seems as if he was enjoying his time in Montreal, and perhaps Lang could be signed for one more season at a lower price than the $4 million he is currently making. At $2.5 or $3 million, he would be worth to have for a young team.

Francis Bouillon/Mathieu Dandenault/Patrice Brisebois

All three of Montreal's francophone defenseman are up for unrestricted free agency at the end of the season, and by all indications Patrice Brisebois will retire once the season is over.

Francis Bouillon and Mathieu Dandenault bring a lot to the Montreal Canadiens. Both are small but tough. Both can be efficient penalty killers and both are great at blocking shots. They both can also skate like the wind.

Dandenault, at age 33, is in his 11th NHL season. He brings a grittiness and a winning mentality, winning cups in Detroit prior to joining the Canadiens as a free agent. His contract, at $1.7 million a year, is a reasonable price for a versatile player.

If Dandenault was sought after by a few teams at the deadline, Gainey should possibly consider dealing him for a pick. If he'd be willing to take the same kind of deal from the Habs, he should be back.

Francis Bouillon is much like Dandenault, although he cannot play forward like Dandenault will sometimes do.

At 32, Bouillon may be looking to cash in on one last big pay raise, meaning that the Canadiens may either have to open up their wallets for the diminutive defenseman, or they will see him walk. For a guy who gives it his all every night and is willing to do what it takes to win, I'd consider giving him a raise, although his $1.875 million dollar deal is already a pretty generous contract considering the type of player he is.

Chris Higgins/Tomas Plekanec

Both Chris Higgins and Tomas Plekanec have been disappointments for the Montreal Canadiens this season, and have not really proven why they should be signed long-term.

As Restricted Free Agents, the Habs can match any potential offer for these two, who make $1.9 million and $1.8 million respectively, reasonable contracts for the pair of 25 year-olds.

If any scenario arises where assets need to be dealt for, say, a Vincent Lecalvier type of player, one, if not both of these underachieving forwards could be dealt. I'm sure if neither is gone by the deadline, they may find themselves out of town on draft day.

Guillaume Latendresse

You either love or hate Guillaume Latendresse; there is no way around that.

For all of the potential talent that Latendresse harbours, he doesn't show it. At times he is painful to watch, giving away the puck and looking a step too slow.

He is, however, a big body up front: something the Canadiens lack. Outside of Pacioretty, Latendresse is Montreal's other power winger, and perhaps given the right circumstances, he could live up to the hype.

As an RFA with a mid-level deal, at $850k, he could easily be re-signed for perhaps under a million. Latendresse, however, must show that he deserves that kind of money when he returns from a shoulder injury.

If Montreal continues its collapse, Gainey must realize what this team needs in order for it to be competitive next season. Accumulating draft picks, freeing up cap space, and figuring out what needs to be done should be his priorities for the rest of the season. A franchise's future depends on it.

The Top 10 Players from the 1978 NHL Entry Draft

Shane Morin-Farraway — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 21:57:24 -0500

On June 5th of 1963, the first ever NHL Entry Draft took place in Montreal, Quebec. With the upcoming June draft also taking place in Montreal, I thought it would be interested to take a look back at past drafts, choosing a random draft every article. The 1978 NHL Amateur Draft was held on June 15, 1978. This was the last time the NHL would use the term "Amateur Draft", as it was renamed the "NHL Entry Draft" the following year. Although the 1978 would not yield a crop of Hall of Famers as other drafts have, the 1978 draft features many future coaches as draft picks, notably Craig MacTavish, Joel Quenneville, Don Waddell, Keith Acton, Darryl Sutter, and Kevin Constantine. Also of note, Vyacheslav Fetisov was drafted 201st overall by the Montreal Canadiens, 11 years prior to his NHL debut. Without further adieu, the top 10 players from the 1978 draft.

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A Logical Look at NHL Relocation: Why Hamilton, Ontario Makes Sense

Shane Morin-Farraway — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 21:33:45 -0500

With recent word that both Arizona Diamondbacks managing partner Ken Kendrick and Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver have both taken a look at the Phoenix Coyotes financial records and taken a pass, this may be the beginning of the end for the Phoenix Coyotes.

In addition to Phoenix, the Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, New York Islanders, Nashville Predators, and Atlanta Thrashers have all been rumoured to have mild-to-significant ownership questions and problems in recent seasons. Things in Nashville have been so bad that they have gone as far as purchasing tickets to its own games so that it meets the required attendance figures for NHL teams looking for financial assistance.

Although relocation is something that the NHL says it isn`t considering, it`s painfully clear that Gary Bettman and the Board of Governors will need to discuss potential replacement owners for many, if not all, of those franchises, as well as possible relocation.

Relocation will be a tricky subject for the NHL to deal with. On the one hand, Gary Bettman, and by extension the NHL, does not want to move from major American metropolitan areas such as Phoenix, Miami, and Atlanta for fearing of losing revenue and name recognition in such a big market, although it is clear that the NHL in those markets is a minor player in the local sport pantheon.

It also seems as if Gary Bettman does not want to tarnish his legacy of expansion in the American South. Outside of the Anaheim Ducks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Minnesota Wild, Bettman`s extension into Miami, Nashville, and Atlanta have been complete failures, although Bettman would never acknowledge such a thing.

With Miami, Nashville, Atlanta, and Phoenix in mind, let us explore potential cities for relocation, as well as the pros and cons that could come along with such a move.

Seattle, Washington—Metropolitan Population: 3.9 Million

It may not be widely known, but the first American team to capture a Stanley Cup were the Seattle Metropolitans in 1917, before the NHL existed.

What attracts the NHL to any potential relocation to Seattle is the lore that it is the major metropolitan market in the American Northwest. Seattle has the accomodations necessary to accept any potential relocated team with Key Arena, empty since the Seattle Sonics moved to Oklahoma City this past summer.

Seattle could also potentially have a major geographic rivalry against the Vancouver Canucks, but aside from an already built arena and a theoretical rivalry against Vancouver, there is not much else that Seattle could potentially offer to a team looking to re-locate. Outside of Vancouver, which is 119 miles away, the city does not offer any other potential major rivals, something that the NHL has said it is trying to focus on.

Seattle seems like a far-off choice for relocation, or expansion, and the city will continue to grieve the loss of its Sonics by drowning its sorrows with lattes and macchiatos.

Las Vegas, Nevada—Metropolitan Population: 2 million

Las Vegas has recently been in the hockey limelight, with word that either an All-Star game or an outdoor classic could take place there.

Las Vegas has become known in the last ten-to-fifteen years as a boom town, but with the current financial crisis effecting everyone, would the citizens of Las Vegas be willing to pay hundreds of millions of dollars for an arena?

Las Vegas seems like a pipe dream for the NHL, and pro sports in general. The city seems content on maintaining its status quo—free of professional sports, with perhaps only baseball breaking in to that market when if it ever expands again.

There are many downfalls for any potential team in Las Vegas, the most obvious being its lack of an arena. Unlike Seattle though, Las Vegas would possess some better oppurtunites with potential geographic rivals, with Los Angeles and Anaheim being 228 miles and 273 miles away respectively. Phoenix would also be a close rival, only 300 miles away, that is, if Phoenix wasn`t the team relocating to Las Vegas.

Kansas City, Missouri: Metropolitan Population, 1.9 million

Kansas City, thanks to Boots Del Baggio, has long been rumoured as a potential relocation site for any NHL franchise, the most recent being the Nashville Predators.

Kansas City, unlike any other city on this list, has the best chance at relocation—and it is not because of their rabid fan base.

Kansas City currently holds a modern, state of the art arena called the Sprint Center which is aching to be used. What is of note in all of this is that the Spring Center is owned by sports conglomerate AEG, a company which owns the Los Angeles Kings.

It is rumoured that because of this connection, Kansas City has the best shot at securing an NHL team, and it would make sense given the resources it already has at its disposal.

What could potentially work against any possible Kansas City team is the fact that it did have a team that lasted two seasons, from 1974 to 1976. That team would eventually become NHL's Colorado Rockies, who in turn are now the New Jersey Devils.

A Kansas City NHL team would also need to battle the Royals and Chiefs for a stake in a metropolitan area which is smaller than Las Vegas or Seattle.

Although Kansas City may be the city with the most to offer in terms of facilities, it is the lack of fans and knowledge which could potentially deter any relocation to that area.

Winnipeg, Manitoba: Metropolitan Population, 694,000

For sixteen years, Winnipegers had the priviledge of watching Dale Hawerchuk, Bob Essensa, Thomas Steen, and Teemu Selanne bring passion to one of Canada's quirkier cities. Winnipeg, although not a top power like their rivals the Edmonton Oilers or Calgary Flames, solidified its place in hockey circles with their passionate fans.

Winnipeg fell on hard times in the early 90s, and were forced to move to Phoenix. This has not detered their fans from hoping for NHL hockey to return, yet Winnipeg would have to solve a few issues before any possible team could, or would, return to the 'Gateway City.'

For one, Winnipeg has the smallest metropolitan population. Although the NHL performs admirably in smaller cities such as Edmonton, Columbus, and Buffalo, the board of governors may be weary to return to a small locale such as Winnipeg.

Winnipeg must also address an upgrade in their facilities. Although the MTS Centre is only five years old, it seats only about 15,000 spectators, roughly 2,500 short of the NHL minimum.

Winnipegers would also have to do some soul searching—would they consider welcoming an NHL team, or are they content and satisfied with a successful AHL franchise?

Time and economics will tell if Winnipeg could become a major player in any possible relocation.

Hamilton, Ontario: Metropolitan Population, 660, 000

Hamilton has long been rumoured as a possible destination should any team choose to relocate, and many times have Hamiltonians have been led, falsely, into believing they could acquire a team.

Many teams, from the Edmonton Oilers to the Hartford Whalers, Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, and now the Nashville Predators have all been rumoured at one time or another of possibly moving to Hamilton. In addition to these heartbreaks, Hamilton was left without an expansion team in 1991 when the Ottawa Senators and the Tampa Bay Lightning were awarded expansion franchises over them.

Hamilton faces many problems when it comes to a potential NHL team in the city. For one, the Toronto Maple Leafs control the territorial rights for the Hamilton area, meaning that should a team relocate, it would be forced to pay an enormous sum to the Leafs, one of hockey's richest teams.

There has also been pressure from Buffalo in regards to ticket sales perhaps being cut in half should Hamilton acquire a team.

Hamilton must also put millions into a new arena. Copps Coliseum, Hamilton's twenty- year-old arena, must be renovated to meet NHL standards.

Although Hamilton has always been perceived as a long-shot by many, it seems like a logical place to move to based on three simple criteria that the NHL could apply: population, ownership, geography.

Although Hamilton boasts the lowest metropolitan population of the list of potential relocation markets, one must take into account the surrounding areas. With cities such as St. Catherines (390,000), Brantford (90,000), Kitchener-Waterloo (451,000), Burlington/Oakville (439,000), and London (457,000) all within an hour's drive from Hamilton, Hamilton has many more opportunities to grow a fan base than Kansas City or Winnipeg, with roughly 2.5 million people in the surrounding area.

When it comes to any potential relocation to the Hamilton area, Jim Balsillie is the name of the potential buyer who could relocate a team to the Steel City. Balsillie, the owner of Research in Motion, inventor of the Blackberry device, and rabid hockey fan, would help renovate the depleted Copps Coliseum.

Should Balsillie bring a team to Hamilton, the city has already publicly stated that they would sell Balsillie Copps Coliseum for the one dollar. Balsillie plans to renovate the arena to NHL standards, and was willing to put over $250 million of his own money into the arena in the summer of 2007 when he was trying to purchase the Nashville Predators.

Geography should also play a logical role for any decision regarding relocation. Hamilton, unlike its immediate competition, is closer in geography to many other NHL markets.

Hamilton is only 41 miles to Toronto, 96 to Buffalo, 199 to Detroit, and 322 to Ottawa. With the NHL-stated goal that geographical rivalries would help to boost interest, there is no doubt that any potential team in Hamilton would become logical rivals to both Buffalo and Toronto, not to mention the cut in travel costs by being so close to so many teams.

Relocation, it seems, can no longer be ignored.

With most of Bettman's southern American teams in financial straights, perhaps the Board of Governors should look north again, as it seems that there are many who are ready, able, and willing to make hockey work efficiently in locales where it would be appreciated.

Could One Team's Junk Be Another Team's Treasure?

Shane Morin-Farraway — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:52:32 -0500

The Montreal Canadiens' injury bug has gotten progressively worse, and after a weekend of back-to-back games involving both the Kings and Bruins, the Canadiens came out of their weekend home stand with a win, a loss, and a slew of injuries.

Guillaume Latendresse, the third-year pro who continues to garner a ton of ice time despite not producing, is on the shelf for at least three weeks with a shoulder injury. Robert Lang, a pre-season acquisition who has been Montreal's most consistent forward this season, will be out for the rest of the year with an Achilles' tendon injury.

Although the return of Chris Higgins and Saku Koivu will help an already-depleted front core, there are many questions and concerns with this current Montreal team. Is it deep enough for a month-long playoff run? Does it have enough size to battle the Bruins and Flyers, perhaps their main competition in the East? Can this team be an elite squad? All of these questions could be addressed with three moves that the Canadiens could make before the trade deadline.

Trade for Jay Bouwmeester or Mattias Ohlund

Both the Florida Panthers and the Vancouver Canucks will either be buyers or sellers as the trade deadline approaches. Should either the Panthers or Canucks fall out of playoff contention, they would both entertain offers for Bouwmeester and Ohlund, two soon-to-be unrestricted free agents. If Montreal could package a defensive prospect with a draft pick or an underachiever from the roster (such as Higgins or Ryan O'Byrne), Montreal could strengthen a solid defensive core.

Although Vincent Lecavalier could solve many questions up front, a solid defenseman who can move the puck out of his own end is more of a priority, and could profoundly help a team full of offensive talent without much output this season.

Trade spare pieces for veterans who have won

Outside of Alex Kovalev, Mathieu Dandenault, Patrice Brisebois, and Alex Tanguay, the Canadiens are filled with players who have never experienced winning a Stanley Cup. Montreal, in terms of playoff experience, is very green, to say the least. Although the Habs may have some of its greatest leaders from the past 30 years serving as their GM and coaches, that can't always translate to success on the ice, a problem that has been quite noticeable this season.

Kovalev, their most talented and enigmatic player, is not the type of player to lead an organization. Although both Saku Koivu and Mike Komisarek are seen as the leaders of the team, there needs to be a more veteran presence on the team, something that could have been addressed with the signings of either Brendan Shanahan or Mats Sundin. Although the Canadiens potentially missed the boat on these two, they could achieve the veteran presence they need by dealing for upcoming unrestricted free agents such as Mike Peca from Columbus and Sean O'Donnell from the Kings.

Peca brings Stanley Cup experience and the penalty-killing presence that the Canadiens are lacking. Although Maxim Lapierre has proven himself as the Habs' checking center/all- around pest, Mike Peca brings a presence in the face off circle which has hindered Montreal in the past. With Lang on the shelf, Peca picks up the slack in the face off department and gives Montreal added depth down the middle.

Sean O'Donnell, a Stanley Cup winner with the Ducks in 2006-07, brings a meanness that is lacking on the Montreal blue line. With the regression of O'Byrne and the injury to Dandenault, the Canadiens have been forced to play Patrice Brisebois for the majority of the season, which has been a major disadvantage for the Habs as their opponents seem to take advantage of his lack of speed, puck control, and toughness.

O'Donnell, much like Peca, brings experience, but he also brings a toughness that will be a relief to Komisarek and Bouillon, who would no longer have to police their own end. O'Donnell also brings along a presence on the penalty kill and another big body to play against the likes of Milan Lucic and Scott Hartnell, two big forwards who destroyed Montreal's undersized defense in last year's playoffs.

Claim Sean Avery off of waivers/trade for him

You might think I'm nuts. This might seem strange. But out of the few organizations who might be able to control Avery, perhaps Montreal may be the best fit.

It's painfully clear that Avery's time as a Dallas Star is over. Many teams will not consider dealing for him under any circumstances, and in all likelihood Avery could be had for very little. So why wouldn't Montreal take the chance?

Avery realizes that this could very well be it for him as a National Hockey League player, and as much as he may not admit it, perhaps he'd be willing to cease his antics for a chance at glory as well as the much-needed attention he most definitely seeks.

By now, everyone knows what to expect out of Sean Avery as a hockey player, especially if one reflects on his time as a Ranger. Avery brought a presence that not many teams have; a player who can get under the skin of other teams' top players while contributing in different facets of the game. He is so hated that it throws many top players off of their games, and come playoff time that could be beneficial to a team like the Canadiens, if they can discover their power play again.

Avery would come at a reduced price as well, costing the Canadiens about $2 million a year if he was claimed off of waivers, and it would be assumed that a portion of his salary would be covered in any potential trade scenario. Could Montreal perhaps package someone like Steve Begin and a prospect for Avery? This seems to make sense for perhaps everyone involved.

With the knowledge that this is possibly his last shot, Avery could become a jack-of-all trades for the Habs, and a much-needed energy boost. Although many might think this could be problematic for a team like the Canadiens, perhaps the doubters do not need to look any further than the second chance the New England Patriots gave Randy Moss before the 2007 season and the success they have had as a team since the arrival of a typical "problem child". If Bob Gainey gives Avery a chance, the Habs have a very good chance at succeeding.

A message is needed for this organization, much like the message sent last year at the trade deadline by Gainey, demonstrating that he believed in Carey Price by trading Cristobal Huet. Gainey needs to kick start his team now more than ever, and perhaps Avery could be the boost and wake up call that the team sorely needs.

Redemption: What Steve Yzerman Can Do To Bring Gold Back to Canada

Shane Morin-Farraway — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:09:40 -0500

Vancouver, 2010. We've been hearing about it since the Turin Olympics ended, and with a year to go Canadians from coast to coast are preparing themselves for either one of the country's greatest sporting spectacles, or a disaster for our own Olympians who, sometimes, crack under the pressure at home.

Canada has yet to win a gold medal on its own, and with the nation's appetite for hockey glory, there is more pressure than ever on Steve Yzerman and his selection committee. Hopefully Yzerman has learned from the success he experienced at Salt Lake in 2002 and the mistakes made by the selection committee in 2006.

Although Canada might have sent one of its most talented teams ever to the 2006 Turin Games, the team lacked many of the qualities that both the Finnish and Swedish teams had—a balanced scoring attack, a gritty energy line, and puck-moving defensemen. Perhaps Yzerman may take these few suggestions to form a well-rounded team.

Looking toward 2010, Canada has at its disposal a plethora of talented, offensively gifted, puck-moving defensemen, something it was sorely lacking at the 2006 games, with only possibly two members from that 2006 squad returning—Chris Pronger and Jay Bouwmeester.

Pronger's size will be a major factor at the 2010 games, and his leadership and winning attitude will be valuable for any Canadian defense. Bouwmeester's skating and puck-moving abilities (really the only one in 2006 who could move the puck out of his own end) are assets that this team needs this go around.

In addition to Bouwmeester and Pronger, Dan Boyle, who was foolishly left on the previous reserve roster in lieu of Bryan McCabe, will finally get to showcase his puck-moving talents. Brian Campbell, Shea Weber, and Dion Phaneuf should round out the other defensive spots, with perhaps Mike Green playing in a power-play-based role.

This means that Adam Foote, Rob Blake, Wade Redden, Robyn Regehr, and Bryan McCabe will not be invited back by Steve Yzerman.

Canada's lack of scoring and chemistry at the 2006 games were a deep concern then, and questionable moves made by Quinn and Gretzky hurt the team. Was it really the right thing to bring the Tampa trio of Vincent Lecavalier, Brad Richards, and Martin St. Louis?

Was it right to keep Jason Spezza on the reserve squad when his talents best suit him for the bigger ice surface, especially with his teammate and friend Dany Heatley on the team?

Was it the right idea to bring a "shut down" unit of Draper and Maltby instead of an energy line? Would you rather have guys that would run around the ice hitting everything that moves like Nieminen and Ruutu did for the Fins or Holmstrom and Pahlsson for the Swedes or "defensive specialists" assigned to stop the other team's best unit instead of creating energy and opportunity?

Up front, Jarome Iginla, Shane Doan, Lecavalier, Rick Nash, Heatley, and Joe Thornton should be automatics to return to the Olympics. Iginla, who would make an ideal captain for this unit, brings the leadership and gold medal standards that this team should aspire to.

Lecavalier and Thornton are two of the NHL's premier talents, and their skill set, along with the new "Captain Canada" Shane Doan should all play significant roles for the team. The presence of Nash and Heatley along the left wing stabilizes potentially their top two scoring units, Heatley being the defensive liability out of the two.

In addition to the six returning forwards, Canadian hockey will be ready for its youth movement, with a few alumni from the 2005 World junior Champion Canadian team becoming significant players for the team.

Sidney Crosby, of course, will be one of the go-to players for team Canada, as well as its top offensive talent. A potential unit of Crosby centering Iginla and Nash could be that top scoring unit that the country lacked in 2006.

Ryan Getzlaf also figures to be a prominent figure on one of the top lines, with Mike Richards and Jeff Carter both potentially playing a role on any potential energy line. Richards has established himself as a top two-way centreman in the NHL, and both he and Carter play a prominent role on the Flyers' penalty kill. In addition, they both have deadly accurate shots and a knack for scoring around the net.

Outside of the four alumni from the 2005 World Juniors, Dallas captain Brenden Morrow should be given a role on the team. His style is much the same as Ryan Smyth, who played an important role on many Canadian international teams in the early 90s, and played a prominent role on the Salt Lake team. Team Canada would needs someone who can take abuse in front of the other team's net, a la Holmstrom, and doesn't mind getting dirty in the corners.

With two forward spots remaining, Yzerman should take a long hard look at both Marc Savard and Patrick Marleau as roster fillers. Savard has been a revelation this year in Boston, demonstrating for once a capability to play in both ends of the rink, and being one of the NHL's premier setup men.

Savard has played with Iginla, but could potentially be a setup man for guys like Heatley, Morrow, and Doan. Marleau's usefulness is much the same as Mike Richards. Marleau plays a solid game in both ends of the rink and is a constant short handed goal leader every year. Marleau has speed and intelligence and a chemistry with Joe Thornton that is almost unmatched anywhere in the league.

In goal, the decision should be pretty simple, with Roberto Luongo taking the reigns from Martin Brodeur as Olympic goalie. If Brodeur does accept a secondary role with the squad, he could get playing time in the opening round against potential hockey powerhouses such as France, Kazahkstan, or Latvia. Luongo should get the bulk of the playing time however.

As for the third goalie, Canada should gear toward 2014 and invite Carey Price or Steve Mason to gain valuable experience from two of the world's greatest.

Yzerman has many tough decisions to make, yet the focus should be on the team aspect of this club and not on the potential star power available.