Canadiens Ryde The Lightening

At times it wasn't pretty, but the Canadiens began getting it right in their first home test of 2008.

Through a second period spent spitting and sputtering, the boys in red put it together in the third period and squelched Tampa's comeback bid to earn what I believe will be a turning point win.

Why do I see it as such?

It has to do with character and confidence, and how the team refound the poise to shut down an opponant that had, at the 40 minute mark, turned the tables on them in a game that seemed to getting away from them.

After jumping out to what seemed a comfortable 3-1 lead, lapses and distractions got the better of the Canadiens, and they deserve full credit for grabbing the bulls by the horns in the third period.

Merit must go to coach Carbonneau for assessing exactly what the Lightening would do in the third period, and conveying it loud and clear to his players who executed the game plan.

In all honesty, the coach's job was made easy by the fact that Tampa are a one line team.

Knowing full well that meant seeing Vincent Lecavalier's line for much of the third, Carbonneau paired Komisarek with Hamrlik for containment purposes, and allowed Andrei Markov to play off against the other lines.

The end result was Lecavalier's line going minus three for the third period alone. That the Habs are a team three lines of scoring prowess deep, if and when given the room, and the Lightening are at best a one trick pony, the plan couldn't fail unless the same indisciplines of the second period were allowed to continue.

Where this win mattters in the Habs grand scheme of things, is how the team got seriously focused to railroad Tampa's surge by dividing its weaknesses and conquering. As soon as Andrei Kostitsyn notched the go ahead goal, the Lightening were playing into the Habs hands by overemploying and overextending the Lecavalier line's shifts.

As good as the best player in the NHL is, he cannot win games alone without support. Lecavalier and the Lightening will be deafeated by deeper teams on a consistant basis, and as long as opponants do not fall asleep by taking them lightly, they should reach easy victory.

What the Canadiens need to take as lessons from this game is that focus is not a variable. This one, should have been won 6-2 or 7-1. Break it down to experience for what is still a very young team.

All things considered, no one here, fans or players should be getting too high about this win. On home ice, the Lightening are a team the Habs should have trounced as they did. Despite notching 6 goals in the game, they slayed no beast.

Beat a tougher opponant, then pound your chest!

One player who call this game a benchmark will be the much maligned Michael Ryder, who in the space of a few games has been able to double his seasons goal production.

With his two goals, his first two on home ice, Ryder may have finally booted the monkey off his back - and that can only mean good things.

I'm thrilled for him, and I hope his confidence enjoys an injection of self esteem. Perhaps as a third line player, Ryder will have more success not facing the usual defenders who know what it takes to shut him down. Ryder has suffered this season, and maybe now his struggles can be given a leash.

















This win, and the recent road swing success, should by now have established that the Canadiens number one line is in fact the trio of Plekanec - Kovalev - A. Kostitsyn.

While Kovalev has practically equalled last seasons goal output, it is his fusing with linemates that impresses me most. Kovalev no longer tries to do it all by himself, and his willingness to employ their talents, as well as his dedication to being sounder defensively, has enabled the entire line to prosper.

Plekanec is a better two way center than most give him credit for. Without Kovalev hogging the puck and taking risks like he did as habit last season, Plekanec has been able to position himseld better and transform plays from all areas of the ice. Last season his points were originated mainly within the opposition's blue line, but thanks to Kovalev's committment deep in his own end, plays originate deeper this season, and Plekanec has been enabled to use his talents in springing his wingers in full stride.

What has been most notable by this change in philosophy, is the importance the line has taken on in the Canadiens overall perspective.

As the line goes - so do the Habs. They are now the Canadiens number one line - without doubt.
Perhaps the biggest benficiary has been Andrei Kostitsyn, who has produced above a point per game ratio in his last eleven, while remaining a constant scoring threat.

I get the feeling we are watching a star player bloom here.

Andrei Kostitsyn reminds me a whole lot of Stephane Richer, who I've always described as a million dollar talent with a ten cent head. Kostitsyn has the same physique, shot, and speed, without Richer's issues. He makes subtle mistakes in each game, but the Canadiens have shown a willingness to let him play through them as he learns. We are seeing the dividends of that judgement as he blossoms.

What the team as a whole needs to focus on now, is that their next opponant is hardly the team they beat tonight. The Washington Capitals have just embarrassed the Conference leading Senators in home and away games.

Coach Carbonneau's prep speech should begin something like - "Remember those 2 points we missed the playoffs by last year - they are at stake tonight!"

Vinny Will Be A Hab One Day

Looking into the future - it's free agent season, July 1, 2009-10, your name is Vincent Lecavalier, and as many as five teams are willing to pay you the maximum salary under cap rules - give or take a dime, that will be 11 million dollars per season.

Roughly 20% of a team's payroll as it would stand now. Likely more then.

If you were him, in two years time, where would you wish to play?

Likely not Tampa.

Lacavalier's current team would then still be paying the contracts of Martin St. Louis (4M) and Brad Richards (7.8 M) until both expire after the 2010-11 season.

Between this season, and the 2009-10 season, Tampa will need to deal with a whopping 19 UFA and RFA scenario's, including those of defenseman Dan Boyle (3.625M) and Filip Kuba (3M).

With no less than thirteen of these cases needing to be dealt with next season, the Lightening are painted into a corner. As only five players are signed beyond 2009-10, with none of them being goalies, the team will need to spread a its money thinly. Possible raises to Boyle and Kuba are unlikely, unless Tampa feels it can remain competitive by paying 15 roster players, including its top defenseman and goaltenders no more than $900,000 per season.

What kind of future can Tampa Bay offer the game's current best player when this day comes.

Pardon the obvious pun, but in 2009 Lecavalier will bolt the Lightening for more electric pastures!

Bet your house, your wife's fidelity, and your kid's college savings on it - it's that safe a deal!

Now the Montreal Canadiens will play into this long before it happens - even if you do not hear about it.

Tampa GM Jay Feaster is no stoolie and he will play every available card leading up to that day when Vinny is free to choose his destiny. Feaster has gone on record as saying he will not go down as the GM who becomes known as the person who traded Lecavalier away.

Fair enough for now, but when his job is compromised based on what returns he receives for Lecavalier before that date is concerned, he'll be singing a different tune.

And it might as well be "Can't Buy Me Love!"

The Canadiens will either be Lecavalier's destination or his negotatition leverage. Seeing as all bidders might then be willing to offer him the max under cap rules, Habs included, leverage might well become a non issue.

The Canadiens will not be topped in offering him top dollar and the then 29 year old will choose based on the longevity of the offers.

Seeing as how the Habs were publicly scoured for not landing Daniel Briere, middleweight that he is, not landing Lecavalier, a heavyweight, with a home run offer may garner the organization eternal heat.

The order will come down from Gillett to Boivin to Gainey - let Lecavalier write and sign his own check - for better or worse.

And I'd agree with it.

There was a precedence of the like in Canadiens history, involving a player of similar great promise for whom the Habs opened the cash vaults to.

Not coincidently, Lecavalier wears his number and has played him in a movie.

Many might suggest that Lecavalier would not want the pressure of having to perform nightly under Montreal's glaring spotlight and magnifying press.

My answer to that is that he might appreciate having less weight on his shoulders come that time. At present in Tampa Bay, he is usually the one unique factor in his team's wins. The enormous pressure in having to exceed himself nightly for the Lightening to win, playing close to 30 minutes a game, will surely hamper his career longevity. A change of scenery to a team on which his is not the sole gunner might be a welcome breath of fresh air.

In Montreal, Lecavalier would be at home, nearer to family, friends, and roots. Of course he would be in high demand, but he still would find a certain sense of peace from within knowing the entire weight of a team is not upon him.

Considering the Canadiens could well be approacing contender status by the time Lecavalier would arrive, it could all add up to marriage made in heaven for all concerned.

Lecavalier, the Habs, and some Stanley Cups!

I can see it now.

Can the Canadiens Pass Esposito By?

Translated from an article by Martin Leclerc in the June19, 2007 Journal De Montreal







In the minds of many people, Montreal born Angelo Esposito's destiny was to have been played out at this Friday`s 2007 NHL Entry Draft in the form of a first overall pick.

Along the way, the scenario has greatly changed, but the talented Esposito isn't letting his fall from top spot be the story. Life is about learning, is it not?

Espo, as his teammates call him, will be in Columbus this Friday night. He is ranked as the eighth best North American prospect. In mid season however, it was thought he was the best 17 year old hockey player in the world.

In 2005-06, at 16, the Quebec Remparts center aquired a legion of admirers after posting 39-59-98 totals. This past season, he was expected to tear the QMJHL apart but his totals dipped to 27-52-79, and that had everything to do with why his ranking parachuted to the 8th position.

"I put way too much pressure on myself to be the best, but it wasn't a pressure based on statistics. It was a pressure based on my desire to help the team", he explains.

"I tried to do too much myself. Hockey is team game, and I learned a great deal in that regard this season."



"Patrick Roy helped me out alot in this area and I feel I've reached a new chapter in my game. I learned to play with the team and forgo trying to do it all by myself."

During the weeks that precede the draft, NHL team officials involved in the interview process with the prospects plave a great measure of importance on the one on one interviews they conduct. Esposito's honesty surely impressed many.

"These meeting usually last between 30 and 45 minutes. We speak with team officials who are simply trying to get to know the person you are. They ask alot of questions about family and background and it's all done very socially."

"In these reunions, I'm not attempting to give them the answers I know they want to hear. I just try to be myself."

Esposito is the second of three children in his family, one that doesn't tolerate compromise when it comes to efforts or results.

"This year in Gym, I had a 98% average", he states proudly, "In Math I had a 96%, and in English and History I had an 83% average. I have to do better on the last, they need to be improved."

On top of being a mature young man, he is also a team oriented player. On the U-18 team his was given the team captaincy. During International games or All Star games, teammates have remarked that they enjoyed his company as a player as well as a person.



Esposito has remained in contact with several former teammates, particularly Cedric Desjardins, Alexander Radulov, and Marc-Edouard Vlasic, keeping tabs on their accomplishments from afar.

"I see my former teammates and the hard work and effort they are furnishing. I see the success they are having and I know it's within my reach to do the same" he confides.

In the summer months, Esposito sometimes trains with the player he admires most - Vincent Lecavalier. The Rocket Richard Trophy winner's brother Philippe, is his agent. Their on ice workouts are in Rosemere, and several NHL'ers take part.

"I really like the way Vincent plays the game. He's become one of the best in thegame over the course of years. I'm very fortunate to know him."

On the ice, Esposito certainly posseses all the tools required to be a star in today's NHL. It's unanimous amongst scouts that he owns superior skating skills.

In speaking with him, it doesn't take long to realize that his personal qualities are just as impressive.

Here, we have a young man who left home at age 14, unweary of what he was setting out to accomplish. He was never afraid of responsability, he's capable of admitting error, and is recognized with leadership qualities by those who have sought to surround him so well through these years.

It will be curiously interesting to see what the Canadiens do should Esposito still be available by the 12th choice!

"Hi Bob, Jay Feaster Here!"

What follows is a ficticious account of a conference call between Tampa Bay GM Jay Feaster and the Habs Bob Gainey and their respective assistants on the subject matter of a trade involving Vincent Lecavalier.

Accent on the ficticious!

There has been no news on this front, because their simply is none. Other than speculation, arising from Lightening owner Bill Davidson's comments regarding a cut in team payroll sometime earlier in the past year, their is nothing new to divulge.

However, I thought it might be fun to get inside the heads of both Gainey and Feaster, just to speculate how such a thing would or would not play out. I began writting it, knowing I'd want a deal potentially left hanging, with options.

Who knows how these deals really come about. I thought if I were being a devil's advocate for both sides, I'd get a closer approximation of how it works.

Some readers will surely read into this, an get ideas afterwards that something is more likely to happen now. I'd caution against that.

Again, this is merely ficticious speculation, all on my part. It has but a speckle of origin, namely the davidson angle.

Trading the face of a franchise such as Lecavalier is a very delicate matter for public consumption, and surely one that will not be open for public discussion by either of the parties front offices.

Rumour mill fodder to the contrary, nothing eminating from either teams camps suggest anything is imminent between the teams.

It is essential to understand exactly what rumours are. Going by the motto "talk is cheap", many writers and journalists employ the rumour to create interest and stir readership.
Hey, that could be what I'm doing, as well!

GM's for the most part, rarely if ever fuel rumours involving their players. No GM calls a local scribe to say, "Hey, guess what? I'm about to send so-and-so to the Leafs for so-and-so....could you print it before it actually happens, so I can gauge whether the general uninformed public opinion will be positive or not?"

It just don't happen that way, folks.

While certain journalists have more credibility than others (not you, Bruce Garrioch!), most not attached to team coverage enjoy the free-for-all mentality of spreading the juice. The term "Hockey Insider", as it refers to people such as former THN editor Bob McKenzie or commentator Pierre Maguire, is a complete misnomer for their profession. My question is always, hockey insider to what? They are employed by no team, hence are not inside anything other than a ring of gossiping scribes spreading speculation.

Certain of their musings and meanderings do sound sensible, almost credible, coming from their mouths, but that is only because they are grounded in the game, are mostly more literate than the average fan, and have a certain common sense to sort ideas with.

But still, how many Sheldon Souray rumours did you read and believe last winter that turned out correct?

My motto in regards to written rumours, has never steered me wrong in 35 years of following the game. Not once! That motto would be, "If it's in print, or if I'm hearing it, it's gotta be false!"
I'll stick to when it's truth, it's news.

So with all that in mind, and sticking to the premise of speculation, here's what could await Bob Gainey should Jay Feaster call.

Note: the partakers in this call are identified by their initials, after once being named in full.

























Bob Gainey: Hello.

Jay Feaster: Hi Bob, Jay here, I've been waiting for a callback.

BG: Sorry, Jay! I was getting around to calling...just lots happening here.

JF: Oh yeah, what's up?

BG: The usual for this time, prospect evaluation in prep for the draft. A dangling free agent. Budgets and prognostications. Some finalizing of contract offers. How about you?

JF: Well our teams pockets aren't as deep, as I'm sure you know. Bill (Davidson) still feels the same about our situation. Our Cup spillover didn't last as long as we'd hoped. The lockout muted that unfortunately....and here we stand. You know out predicament.

BG: Jay, I have to meet with scouts in 45. Tell me what's on your mind today?

JF: Well I just wanted to followup on our last talk about Vinny....

BG: Were you able to make Bill understand why it's only him we'll discuss...not Brad or Martin.

JF: Exactly, Bill and I are of the opinion that in order to make any kind of deal in that area, we need guarantees. We not only need the right guys back, but also need to address the fact that it could kill off a good share of seats, should we come out looking less than brilliant in return.

BG: I hear ya Jay, it's just not my problem....you understand. Not my call to make you look good. There's a group of players, and they haven't changed since last time we talked...those that I'll part with...pick amongst them. The others, I'm not budging on.

JF: Getting lots of calls about Price?

BG: Price? You mean the goalie Price? (laughs) Oh, a few. Most know better..

JF: Even 1 for 1? For anyone?

BG: Not too sure I'd be willing there...who do you wanna throw in...(laughs).

JF: It's good to hear you laughing again, my friend. How are things with everybody?

BG: Everyone's good Jay, thanks. I still have rough days...it's tough...

JF: (silence)...can't even begin...

BG: Did you see Halak play at the Worlds at all? He fared pretty good on that team of his.

JF: We noticed, we had to take note actually....no other chance to scout him until after the season starts. It was positive.

BG: Is that pre-planning on you guys part? Were you envisioning...

JF: We got lots of options open Bob, we just called to explore this one first as a means to go forward. The Vinny - Montreal thing is our starter here...has to be. Less so, in the other two cases.

BG: Any other solids, offers that will stop you inquiring at any point?

JF: Nibbles mainly, that tire kicker from Philly's relentless...but I have to take his problems as well, so until he gets off that horse, I'm just listening really.

BG: What's Paul's problem Jay?

JF: Sorry Bob. Have to wait on his next trade to guess, I assume. He's asked me to quiet it.

BG: He wouldn't be game for some Russian roulette in exchange, if you follow?

JF: Not your notorious ones! Sorry, couldn't resist that!

BG: It's okay man...getting that alot lately...enough small talk Jay. I gotta get soon.

JF: Yeah enough small talk. Who's still on the table Bob, the Kostitsyns?

BG: You looking at both?

JF: Perhaps, depends. I don't think 3 bodies in total will do it for us, really.

BG: I'll be straight up with you Jay, out of all the names I've laid out for you....we don't have to go over the kids again...all are a year away for us except two or three. Honestly, they won't make you guys a better team straight away. They need more work....that'll be yours to do....but then, before they start costing you's much, two years max, you're a better team for the deal. Right around the same time Vinny is a UFA again, and if he bolts...(laughs at own remark)...

JF: Funny Bob!

BG: ...if you lose him then, what do you get?

JF: That's why this discussion is necessary.

BG: Exactly. Now my concern is overpaying you, more than 3 players moving at once..it's risky....for us or anyone to do.

JF: I hear ya...by the way, did you get a call from Yashin's agent yet.

BG: Bolshoi! One Russian word I learned to use!

JF: What do you say I name players off your roster, one at at time, and you tell me what you think about including them? Anything to lose by going in that direction?

BG: Well....

JF: My reason's simple for starting this way, I need some marquee to sell. No need explaning....

BG: Well shoot then.

JF: Okay, for starters, Chris Higgins?

BG: No way Jay! Too much upside on Higgins left to determine. I haven't gotten a full season of him yet to even be sure of what his worth to us is. He'd be a high risk to throw out even as a twofer deal.

JF: I understand. Give us Plekanec, I'll need a center, you have to subtract one.
BG: It's a possibility...it would depend with who he goes with.

JF: Question then, about Ryder, is that a tough negotiation?

BG: Oh yeah! We'll arbitrate his deal again. His totals dictate steadiness but his demands increase. He's one I'd consider letting go of.

JF: Mike Komisarek?

BG: Forget it! Forget that idea. My D is what I'm working on shorring up. Choose from Dandeneault, Bouillon, Streit, Georges, no one else, no D prospects, got it. Won't even go there.

JF: Gotcha Bob, that's my sticking point too. I want to bring in some steady guys back there, it's just that there's little flashpoint for the marquee thing here.

BG: Well we really can't drop those D names until after camp anyway. We have to assess that area constantly from top to bottom for a few years yet. A non starter with me, for now.

JF: Cristobal Huet then?

BG: If you're aware of his contract status and salary, I'm listening.

JF: Halak?

BG: He's a solid NHL'er in our eyes, we're no longer thinking prospect with him. Again, maybe only in a twofer.

JF: So let's back track a step, forget the Kostitsyn's, how about Plekanec, Halak, those two first rounders you got coming to you in a week, and David Fischer. Is that a starter for Vinny?

BG: Forget it. Not Fischer, Jay....

JF: That Valentenko kid?

BG: No!

JF: How about Emelin?

BG: Still no, can't budge on D Jay, I won't go there yet, as I said.

JF: Any issues with the 2 first rounders from this year's ....

BG: None, it's not the strongest crop we've seen.

JF: We're not so sure, really. That 12th pick you have's a good spot.

BG: We're looking to move it. Up maybe, possibly down in a trade. I'm not exactly salivating for who is likely to be left, so....who you have your eye on?

JF: Not a chance Bob, I ain't saying till a deals done....really! I'd love to close in on Angelo, though, that's why I'm inquiring on it.

BG: Had to ask. We've done province wide tire kicking on Esposito...while we're not 100% sold, but he won't be around when you guys pick.

JF: Why you mentioning that?

BG: He's similar to Vinny in some ways, don't you think?

JF: In some...think he'll be around at 12? Word is...

BG: He's gone to Boston early.....that's all marquee inuendo my friend. Watch the phone's ring before that pick. Chiarelli's worked me on it already, for our two picks plus a player.

JF: Plus a...who exactly?

BG: Nevermind. A roster player. Oh what the hell....he's asked about Ryder, Higgins too. Like...

JF: The two picks and Higgins? That's what he asked? Really?

BG: He trying to make us think Espo is high on his list, the greatest thing since...

JF: Is he bluffing? He can't be serious, can he really?

BG: Not sure there, it's name game there.... think about it, Esposito in Boston. Hold on...I gotta take a call for a minute.

JF: I'll be here.

BG: Hi Julian. What's up?

Julien Brisebois: Good news. Pavel is signing tomorrow afternoon.

BG: Paperwork's all done up?

JB: Yes, Sir! All according to specifics. He's extremely excited too.

BG: Great Julien, good work. How's the other coming?

JB: No confirms, they just asked for a time. Still iffy with Russians you know. Emelin's more eager than the agent. Hard to get a read on their positions, as usual.

BG: Okay, let's cut this off now. I got Feaster on the other end and were making some trail here.

JB: Bob! BOB!

BG: What is it?

JB: If your back on with Feaster, I just got some news...might not be much. Two sources are saying Feaster's got Chris Gratton back. Only details from being made official. A smart move really...from Tampa's point.

BG: Good stuff my friend, that is why we pay ya that big bucks!

JB: Yeah, sure Bob! I heard it's filed.

BG: Okay Jules, letting you go now.

BG: Okay, Jay, I'm back.

JF: What the news?

BG: Oh, nothing much, contract progress. Plekanec is a hard sign right now, wants almost three million per. How bad do you need a center, Jay.

JF: No way. He's key to the deal with us Bob.

BG: Well Jay, that's where it stands for a few days.

JF: Would you sub Max Lapierre for Plekanec?

BG: I doubt it, for now any ways. Do you have any centers your looking at aquiring around ....

JF: Something might be in the works, not sure yet.

BG: Almost time for me to go...

JF: Okay then, let me step back a bit, in regard to that 12th pick. If Esposito or Logan Couture are still out there at that time, you can expect a call from me then and there. I'll ask for Plekanec, Halak, the 12th for Esposito, and one other thing. What do think Bob?

BG: It's ballpark Jay, call me. What other thing would you be getting at? Picks, conditionals, players? I'd offer what Burke gave Kevin.

JF: I was getting to that as an add on really, like a Stanley finals clause kick in should you guys get there...

BG: I'd want the same one in return, should you guys...

JF: Really?

BG: For sure! Fair from my standpoint. Who knows if you guys can't get there first. If that happens, and it could, I'd want to be compensated, don't you think...

JF: Wow, didn't see that coming....but I'd be okay with it.

BG: But still, the names I said were off, stay off. You can take Ryder instead of Plekanec or Huet instead of Halak, but just not three of the four. Go back over that last list I faxed you, with all the Hamilton bound guys. We can do a conditional for one of them a month into the season. The Milroy's, Cote's, Biron's and such could all add up to cheap depth for you.

JF: So are we talking the five plus the Cup clause thing, and then a conditional?

BG: A two way conditional...

JF: Yes.

BG: I agree with that kind of framework. We can deal with the loss of those names if they should work for you. Is it all dependant on that 12th pick being Esposito for you guys?

JF: As of right now, yes it would. We could swing it earlier than next weekend if it wasn't tied to it...

BG: ...and concern yourselves with moving up as well. But we'd rather hold onto some options leading up to the draft and that position, there could be other calls. I've had curious inquiries that need pursuing in certain matters. If only one or two picks of the first 12 get out of order, a player we have eyes for could become avaible and then there's no deal, Jay.

JF: Who's on your mind there?

BG: Hard to say, the 67's kid shows promise, but there's another as well. We won't be doing this until next Friday, either way, for now.

JF: Bob I know you got your meeting in a minute, but a got take a call, I'll put it on hold here, gimme 60 seconds.

BG: Okay, hurry!

Feaster rings up Bill Davidson's office.

JF: Bill, I got Gainey on the other end and there's a workable frame for a deal here for Vinny.

Bill Davidson: Do you like it, Jay? Will it flesh out the roster?

JF: It won't hurt, but it looks better in the second and third years. We only get two roster guys for now, plus conditionals. I'm looking at the goalie Halak and center Plekanec, plus the 2 first rounders Friday and conditionals. It all hinges on Angelo Esposito's availability come that pick. If he's gone, we're back to zero...

BD: Is he really that good?

JF: He could be, we've assessed him as a guy who can step right in. That solves our goal of getting 3 bodies straight into starters. I've got to check with Torts and watch some Halak games to make sure he's on my page with it first.

BD: Did he say no to Ryder?

JF: In lieu of Plekanec only, not together.

BD: Did Latendresse get on the table?

JF: From the last time, it was still unequivocally no!

BD: You'll have to find a way, Jay, just to get a little more out of it. A low depth guy, cheap. A sixth or seventh defenseman or a fourth liner maybe.

JF: He won't touch the D, Bill. Can't budge him there.

BD: Well, call him mid week, see if you can get more in any way.

JF: Okay Bill, I'd better be getting back to him now.

BD: Later Jay.

JF: Bob, sorry, some legal snafu's. Can I call you back on Wednesday, go over some finer points before Friday?

BG: You can try, I may or may not be away for one day this week. I can send you those players current contracts details that expire shortly, so you can get a sense of where they've been at going forward. It might help you in choosing between the two. I'll send you my notes from Ryder's arbitration, don't let it scare you off (laughs).

JF: What the deal with Ryder's status...

BG: Nothing to sweat really...it's just him an his agent work real hard at being our last signing. It's gone on for two years now. They use that as a wedge heading into those arbitration things...and then they settle without it. It's like the new CBA doesn't exist to them. It makes what appears to be my hardest sign, my easiest. If they talked more earlier on, when we have more dough, it would serve their interest better. Ryder lost out on about 600 grand last year employing that tactic, and looks like they are headed that way again...

JF: Is that the newfie?

BG: Ah, Jay, he's a great kid, good team guy. Improves all the time, just a touch slower. Our patience has paid great dividends with him. He's come far. I'd really agonize over parting with him, if it wasn't to aquire Vinny for us.

JF: That's good to hear (laughs), your trying to hang onto to Plekanec aren't you?

BG: Either one you take, either one we keep, we're not hurting. I'm just thinking of Ryder at Vinny's side, but we can't have it both ways.

JF: Bob, I'll get back to you Wednesday afternoon.

BG: I get to the office after jogging around 9 in the morning if you want to start earlier Jay.

JF: Alright Bob, sounds good!

BG: See ya.

The latest on Lecavalier

Gainey On Feaster's Speed Dial

(Note - this article is transcribed from Le Journal De Montreal's Martin Leclerc.)

With the first round exit of the Tampa Bay Lightening, Bob Gainey may have invariably found himself the one compratriate capable of making his cell phone bill skyrocket.

The chances of the Canadiens aquiring an impact player via the free agent route are slim.

Gainey might be best to turn his option towards the trade route if he wishes to improve the team more quickly and in a more significant manner.

With that perspective in mind, Gainey and Tampa GM Jay Feaster make perfect dance partners.

For the second consecutive season, Feaster has watched the Lightening make the playoffs with much difficulty, only to succumb to a rapid exit.

The Lightening`s quagmire isn't complicated. Obviously the salaries of Vincent Lecavalier (7.167M) Brad Richards (7.8 M), and martin St. Louis (6M) are hampering the Lightening's ability to improve and remain competitive, because it's tied Feaster down to filling out the lineup with marginal talents. The series against the Devils gave ample proof the Lightening are a stagnant bunch.




















LITTLE OPPORTUNITY FOR

make matters worse for Tampa, the horizon doesn't look to get any brighter on the short to medium term outlook, for many reasons.

To begin with, Lecavalier, Richards, and St.Louis can hardly do better than they did this season, while being given maximum icetime.

Secondly, the farm team in Springsfield is empty of prospects. Its better players are all above 27 years of age and are tagged as career minor leaguers.

"We nothing on the farm" confided a Lightening player recently.

Finally, the team's owner William Davidson let it be known that the teams salary cap will in the 40 - 42 million range for next season.

This self imposed cap will further reduce Feaster's manoeverabilty and he is cornered by the teams salaries handed to the players. Eight players totalling a $33 million payroll include the three already mentioned and five more signed for next season. Those players are Vaclav Prospal, Filip Kuba, Dan Boyle, Marc Denis, and Karri Ramo.

If one does the math, Feaster needs to fill out the remainder of the lineup card, 15 players perhaps, with a mere $15 million.

It's almost written in the sky that Feaster will need to drop one of his three bigger signings in order for the team to improve at any stretch.

It is pretty clear to see that Gainey would be on Feaster's speed dial at this point. The Canadiens are in need of the type of player the Lightening are desperate to move. The Habs also possess a sick amount of prospects with great upsides, at a cheap price!

It's a match made in heaven, just a few phone calls away!

More on the subject.

Fun Facts and Stanley Cup Numbers

Each year, as the Stanley Cup is about to be won, one of the more interesting stories follows that player who has yet to win. Who'll ever forget the Colorado Avalanche's crusade to win one for Ray Bourque in 2001. Three years later, it was Dave Andreychuk's turn.

There are 30 players who have played over 600 combined regular season and playoff games still active in the 2006-07 post season, without winning the Stanley Cup. These players cover 9 of the remaining 11 teams alive as of April 20th.

The players are ranked by total games played and their regular season numbers and playoff numbers are separated by a slash. The asterisks denotes the number of times a player has reached the final without winning the Cup. As players are eliminated from contention this season, they will be marked with an X.

Players Who've Played The Most Career Games Without Winning The Cup


1440 Trevor Linden* VAN 1323 / 117
1384 Teppo Numminen BUF 1314 / 70
1271 Tony Amonte CAL 1174 / 97
1161 Stu Barnes** DAL 1057 / 105
1121 Teemu Selanne ANA 1041 / 70
1096 Bryan Smolinski VAN 992 / 104
1052 Roman Hamrlik CAL 999 / 53
991 Markus Naslund VAN 953 / 38
979 Martin Straka NYR 889 / 90
982 Chris Pronger* ANA 868 / 114
950 Brad May ANA 882 / 68
927 Rob Neidermayer* ANA 854 / 73
873 Mattias Norstrom DAL 837 / 36
872 Robert Lang DET 799 / 73
867 Daniel Alfredsson OTT 783 / 84
846 Michael Nylander NYR 808 / 38
836 Mike Grier SJ 774 / 62
833 Wade Redden OTT 758 / 75
828 Dean McAmmond OTT 804 / 24
821 Jarome Iginla* CAL 778 / 39
811 Eric Lindros* DAL 760 / 51
783 Patrick Marleau SJ 717 / 66
751 Todd Bertuzzi DET 725 / 26
722 Joe Thornton SJ 672 / 50
720 Philippe Boucher DAL 669 / 51
716 Kyle McLaren SJ 658 / 58
713 Craig Rivet SJ 670 / 43
690 Chris Phillips SJ 618 / 72
681 Brendan Morrison VAN 635 / 46
605 Danny Markov DET 538 / 67

























GOALIE EXPERIENCE

Last season, Carolina goaltender Cam Ward won the Stanley Cup without having much regular season experience. He appeared in but 28 regular season games with the Hurricanes before making 23 playoff appearances. Ward's feat has only been bested by Ken Dryden, who managed a mere 6 games in 1971 before bagging both the Cup and the Conn Smythe trophy.

While goaltenders experience is often the key to a teams wictory, exceptions to the rule do occur as in the cases of Ward, Dryden, and Patrick Roy. Last season in 2005-06, the majority of playoff bound teams found themselves with inexperienced, even rookie goaltenders. This season, the goaltending crop are a little more experienced. Still, almost half the remaining stoppers have less than three full years under their belt.

I've omitted the names of goalies who have won the Cup, and placed an asterisk next to the two who have reached the Stanley Cup final.

418 Roberto Luongo VAN 413 / 5
376 Evgeni Nabokov SJ 353 / 23
372 J.S. Giguere* ANA 343 / 29
320 Marty Turco DAL 310 / 10
241 Mikko Kupprusoff* CAL 204 / 37
142 Ryan Miller BUF 119 / 23
118 Ray Emery OTT 103 / 15
130 Henrik Lundqvist NYR 123 / 7
53 Johan Holmqvist TB 48 / 5

Current Active Playoff Participants With A Stanley Cup Ring

There are currently 47 players remaining in this season playoffs that have won a Stanley Cup.

























Of those players on the 11 teams left, 14 players are no longer with the organization that they won the Cup with. Three players have returned to team that they won with years earlier, namely Jim Dowd with New Jersey, and goalies Hasek and Osgood with the Red Wings.

Almost half of the listed players, 23, have won multiple Cups, with 2 Devils (Brodeur and Brylin) and 4 Red Wings (Lidstrom, Holmstrom, Draper, and Maltby) having won 3 Cups.

Brendan Shanahan of the Rangers, has won 3 Cups with Detroit, while Scott Niedermayer of the Ducks has hoisted it as many times with the Devils.

Six players among the group have won the Cup with two different teams. Most recently, while with Tampa Bay, Brad Lukowich (NJ) and Darryl Sydor (DAL) repeated the feat they won together with Dallas in 1999.

From Tampa's winning year in 2004, Tim Taylor (Detroit 1997), and Nolan Pratt (Colorado 2001) were also previous winners.

Chris Chelios went 16 seasons between Cups in Detroit in 2002, and his first, seemingly eons ago, with Montreal in 1986.

Dallas' Sergei Zubov, a winner with the Stars in 1994, was on the Rangers team that won in 1994.

Players who have gone the longest, since winning their first Cups are Mathieu Schneider, who has been waiting 14 years since winning his first in Montreal in 1993, and Jaromir Jagr, who's gone 15 seasons since winning back to back Cups with Pittsburgh in 1991 and 1992.

2005-05 Carolina

Matt Cullen NYR
Martin Gerber OTT

2003-04 Tampa Bay
Vincent Lecavalier
Martin St. Louis
Brad Richards
Dan Boyle
Ruslan Fedotenko
Tim Taylor (2)
Eric Perrin
Nolan Pratt (2)
Cory Sarich
Andre Roy
Brad Lukowich (2) NJ
Darryl Sydor (2) DAL

2002-03 New Jersey

Martin Brodeur (3)
Patrick Elias (2)
Sergei Brylin (3)
Brian Gionta
Jamie Langenbrunner (2)
Jay Pandolfo (2)
John Madden (2)
Brian Rafalski (2)
Scott Gomez (2)
Mike Rupp
Colin White (2)
Scott Neidermayer (3) ANA
Jeff Friesen CAL

2001-02 Detroit

Chris Chelios (2)
Pavel Datsyuk
Kris Draper (3)
Dominik Hasek DET
Tomas Holmstrom (3)
Nicklas Lidstrom (3)
Kirk Maltby (3)
Brendan Shanahan (3) NYR

2000-01 Colorado

Chris Drury BUF
Jon Klemm DAL
Alex Tanguay CAL

1998-99 Dallas

Sergei Zubov (2)
Jere Lehtinen
Mike Modano
Richard Matvichuk NJ

1997-98 Detroit

Chris Osgood (2) DET

1995-96 New Jersey

Jim Dowd NJ
Bill Guerin SJ

1992-93 Montreal

Matthieu Schneider DET

1991-92 Pittsburgh

Jaromir Jagr (2) NYR

1985-86 Montreal

Chris Chelios DET

The Vincent Lecavalier Question

It is a dilema facing more than one NHL organization at the moment. A matter of priority with little or no room for error.

With rising salary caps an odd reality in the post lockout NHL, several teams are facing budgetary restraints. In truth, the new cap limits envisioned for the 2007-08 season, estimated at $48 million, exceed what certain teams were paying out prior to the lockout.

It is in fact what more than the majority were spending in 2004.

I suggest the word "odd" because the lockout was supposed to have bridged the large gap between the "have's" and "have not's" of the leagues team fiscal monetary means.

Wasn't that the purpose of the lockout in the first place?

Irregardless, several teams have been tossing out dollars just as foolishly as before the so-called "new NHL" was born. The upcoming free agency season, next July 1st, will be a very tell-tale day as to where many organizations stand financially.

One team throwing all its eggs in one basket are the Tampa Bay Lightening.

Huge contracts awarded to such stars as Martin St. Louis, Brad Richards, and Vincent Lecavalier have placed the team in a bind as to where it's future can go. With almost half the team's payroll taken up by three star players, it has given the Lightening little manoeverability in terms of negotiating raises to other worthy players. If they fail to properly re-evalute the vision of their teams goals, mistakes could become costly in a bubble hocket market.

The truth is that the Lightening's budget will not see them equal the NHL's salary cap next season. This losing proposition has led to rumblings that Tampa GM Jay Feaster will need to unload one of his big three contracts.

After the Lightening's Stanley Cup win in 2004, Feaster was somewhat cornered in offering all three top dollar. As St.Louis, Richards, and Lecavalier were all on the brink of unrestricted free agency, he could not afford to lose either of the three for nothing.

He signed all three to big dollar deals knowing full well it could compromise the Lightening's future.

Now, nearing July 1, 2007, that day is upon Feaster.

Which asset of the three will he chose to lose?

Richards, the most complete player of the three, has the most dollars attached to his contract. It is doubtful that any team that has the cap room to afford him, sees him as being as valuable to them. He is also the least point producing of the three.

St.Louis, former Art Ross and Hart trophy winner, is the eldest of the group. He endured a questionable season between 2004 and his resurgence this season. He has never produced prior to arriving with Tampa, being given the ice team he now enjoys. Similar productiveness on a contender may be doubtful.

Lacavalier, by the time you've read this, may have just reached his first 50 goal season. His contract, more than the other two Lightening stars, was a deal made for the future. It seemed quite a bit much at the time but now seems to equal his output.

Perversly, Lacavalier has become Tampa's most tradeable commodity in this crucial financial paradox.

Feaster is a smart and astute GM. He realizes the constraints of dealing either of the three and realizes his biggest return lies with dealing Lacavalier. While he surely doesn't relish the corner he has painted himself into, he will understand how to best get himself out of it.

It all begins with Lecavalier's dream team - the Montreal Canadiens.

For those who may not know this, Lecavalier wore his same number 4, when he played the Habs legendary Jean Beliveau in the film about "The Rocket". (NHL'ers Pascal Dupuis and Sean Avery also werein on the roles.)

Nevermind the irony of Lacavalier as Beliveau in a movie on Maurice Richard, there are several facts that add up to Feaster wanting to speak with the Canadiens first.

To begin with, the Habs need a bona-fide top line center - at any salary within reason. No one in Montreal would balk at Lecavalier's pricetag coming off a 50 goal season.

Secondly, the Canadiens have the prospects to suit the Lightening's needs for the future, at any position required.

On top of that, the Canadiens may lose an UFA of their own in the off-season, namely Sheldon Souray (though he's admitted he hopes the team can retain him), and Andrei Markov, who has expressed more than once, a desire to remain in Montreal.

Should the Canadiens suffer the fate of losing one or both, the aquiring of Lecavalier would prompt the media focus away from such losses in a big time way. No need to explain the significance of french Canadiens allegiances here.

On the eventuality that Montreal is not interested in the Lecavalier contract, the Tampa GM will still begin with talking with Montreal to raise the bar in trade talks.

The Canadiens have $26 million to spend as they see fit next summer - with resignings in the equation. Expect the Montreal media to be on the Lecavalier scenario until the team is capped out within reason.

For Lecavalier and the Montreal Canadiens, it should be an interesting summer!