Sunday, August 31, 2008

An Update

I moved back to college today, so I hope to get to regular posting started up again tomorrow. There will be a lot of Lewiston Maineiacs content the next few days. I have found another website to host a Lewiston Maineiacs Blog. It will be a week or so until I switch over.

I hope everyone has a nice Labor Day.

That's My Take

(Nathan can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Lewiston Maineiacs Blog

9:15a.m. Once again MVN.com is shut down and is the Temporary home of "The Asylum." Players have been on the ice for the last 15 minutes warming up and doing some drills.

9:30a.m. Rafuse and Connelly are the goalies.So far the drills have been different so far from yesterday. That's good for my eyes.

9:41a.m. The first group has just finished a drill. The coaches are going for the next drill. Michael Chaput looks good so far this morning. RThere's no sign of a hangover from yesterday from him.

9:47a.m. Chaput muscled through Robby Theriault on his way to the net. Theriault also got pushed aside in another play.

10:03a.m. I have to agree with Justin Pelletier, and Connelly hasn't been that all impressive to me. The only thing that's working in his favor at this point, is the fact this team will be without Peter Delmas for a few day when he heads to Avalanche camp. If he's the third goalie, maybe the extra time will get him adjusted.

10:09a.m. Matt Bourdeau has been doing individual drills on the side. The players are working on the neutral ice game right now. Both nets have bee brought to each blue line.

10:15a.m. After a mini three on three game in at center ice, the players are stretching around the Maineiacs logo. The first session appears to be over.

10:41a.m. Session two is about to begin. The coaches went over the drill and we are underway.

10:49a.m. A couple of things, the drill that they are doing, the players have to go through pylons. One of the players knocked it out of place and without any hesitation Danick Paquette went and grabbed it to put back in place. Something small but its nice to see the captain do that. Phillip Wright was barked at by a bulldog. A fan brought a dog in the arena. From my vantage point Wright wasn't doing anything wrong. The dog must have high expectations.

11:05a.m. The players just ended a shooting drill. Zach Shannon has a nice snap shot and Filip Janosik has a rocket of a shot. I think some outlet passing is going to be the next drill.

11:15a.m. The passing drill is over. Matt Bourdeau is on for this session also. I have no idea why. Looks like another passing drill.

11:25a.m. The players are doing some one on one drills. Some got a half of step past Denis Reul but he used his reach to deflect the puck away. Then Reul finished his check almost taking a few teammates out that were waiting in line.

11:40a.m. The two on one drills just finished. Reul and Eric Gelinas looked good in that drill. I couldn't tell who looked good on the far end of the ice.

11:52a.m. The players have finished up a 2 on 2 drill. There was a lot of physicality down in my end. It looks like the second session is over.

11:57a.m. Players are just leaving the ice. Some have stayed on to shoot around.

Be back at 6:15ish.

6:15p.m. 45 minutes until game time, it's pretty quite at The Androscoggin Bank Colisee.

6:35p.m. Here's tonight's rosters

Team Blue

Phillip Wright
Marc-Antoine Coulombe
Filip Janosik
Alex Beaton
Danick Paquette
Todd Chinova
Tommy Dery
Michael Hynes
Dominic Savoie
Simon Bissonnette
Marc-Andre L'Hereault
Justin Cloutier
Justin Parsons
Logan Phillips
Eic Gelinas
Denis Reul
Zach Shannon
Tom Michalik
Pier-Luc Pelletier
Josh Fattore
Justin Stevens
Peter Delmas

Team White

Kirk Rafuse
Jonathan Connely
Pierre-Olivier Morin
Billy Lacasse
Etienne Brodeur
Lucas LaBelle
Michael Chaput
Travis Moore
Steeven Jacques
PJ Moore
Jared Wilson
Jonathan Tower
Raphael Joly
Patrick Lanteigne
Michael Ward
Patrick Cusack
Garrett Clarke
Sean Stagles
Dany Coulombe
Robby Theriault
Jordan Stapleton
Matt Sollows

6:43p.m. Zach Phillips is the only player that isn't dressing. He must of left camp to maintain NCAA eligibilit. This isn't including Brett Gallant and Maxim Gratchev who haven't yet stepped on the ice in camp.

7:00p.m. Tonight's game will like a regular hockey game, three twenty minute periods. Delmas and Rafuse are the starters.

7:04p.m. A roster correction, Reul is on Team Blue. I think Cusack and Reul swapped teams.

7:13p.m. Blue takes the 1-0 lead at the 8:29 mark. The goal came from Simon Bissonnette with the only assist going to Dominic Savoie. White's best chance so far has come from Brodeur when he skated all alone after two players crash into each at their own blue line.

7:33p.m. After one period its 2-1 Blue. Wilson scored for White on a 3 on 1 penalty kill. Justin Parsons scored for Team Blue

7:45p.m. Rafuse is in net for Team White and Phillip Wright is in net for Team Blue. Maxime Gratchev just was introduced to a couple of assistant coaches and scouts. Todd Chinova just scored for Team Blue.

7:50p.m. Chinova made it 4-1 with Dery getting the assist. Phillip Wright got an assist on Chinova's first goal. Team White got a goal from Lanteigne with assists going to Jacques and Wilson

7:54p.m. Raphael Joly made it 4-03 with Lucas LaBelle getting an assist.

8:01p.m. Jonathan Connelly takes over for Rafuse.

8:08p.m. Michael Chaput tied the game up with Joly getting the helper. It was a garbage goal. Dominic Savoie game blue the lead again with Bissonnette's goal. Stevens got an assist.

8:10p.m. Clarke killed off a 3 on 1 penalty. Connelly made some huge stops in that 30 seconds.

8:14p.m. Hynes made it 6-4 on the two man advantage with Savoie getting the primary assist.

8:31p.m. The third period is about to start. Marc-Antoine Coulombe is in net for Team Blue.

8:33p.m. Team Blue makes it 7-4 with a goal from Josh Fattore. The helper went to Hynes.

8:35p.m. Blue makes it 8-4 with a goal from Alexander Beaton. White came back with a goal from Pier-Oliver Morin to make it 8-5

8:38p.m. Bissonnette and Dany Coulombe drop the gloves. I call it a draw.

8:43p.m. LaBelle gets White's sixth goal. Chaput with an assist.

8:45p.m. Blue's lead is down to one, as Morin scored for White. Ward with an assist.

9:00p.m. Blue holds onto a 8-7 victory. Clarke almost tied it up with underv 15 seconds to go with a blast. It just went wide. LaBelle couldn't convert on the rebound.

That's all folks.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Friday, August 29, 2008

Friday News

It's nice to see hockey back.

Something I wanted to post late last night but didn't. Colten Teubert and the Los Angeles Kings have come to terms. It's the standard three year entry level deal. With the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League, he had 7 goals and 16 assists. He also had 135 penalty minutes.

To add some intrigue to the Akim Aliu story, he wasn't in the line up tonight against Sarnia Sting. It was the first exhibition game for both clubs. The Knights defeated the Sting 4-1. Maybe the team wanted to see a few more players in game action but looking at their roster, it looked like the roster you would see in the regular season. There were a few players missing but I would say the roster had 90% of the regulars.

It should be interesting to see what happens the next few days. I am sure the London Knights could get some value for him.

Appartenly the reason Knight fans didn't see their young Knight, Jared Knight, is because he hasn't been released from his agreement with the National Team Development Program and USA Hockey. They will release him sometime next week.

The Wisconsin Badgers received a commitment from Keegan Meuer, a 19-year old Waterloo Blackhawk forward. With the Blackhawks last year, he had 2 goals and 22 assists in 52 games last year.

It looks like the Badgers have found a recruiting pipeline. Meuer will be the fourth Blackhawk player to be apart of the 2009 recruiting class. The other players on the roster that's heading to Wisconsin are centers Brock Montpetit, Craig Smith, and Tyler Barnes.

The Everett Silvertips have signed Tyler Maxwell of Manhattan Beach, California, to a WHL Educational Contract. With the Los Angeles Jr. Kings last season, he had 41 goals and 31 assists.

The Prince George Cougars have come to terms with Shane Pilling. He was the 69th overall selection (4th round) in the 2008 Draft. With the the bantam AAA Lethbridge Val Matteotti Golden Hawks last season he had 6 goals and 14 assists in 33 games.

I am not the political type but I loved this. It has to do with hockey.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Updating the Blog

Well if you didn't know, I am running a live blog at "The Asylum", as the Lewiston Maineiacs open training camp. The live blog will shift here during the weekend as MVN.com will be shutdown to launch their new platform.

I am not going into much detail in this blog today as I am pretty busy at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee.

With a contract in hand with the Chicago Blackhawks, could Akem Aliu be out of London? From a source in London, Dale Hunter the coach didn't like the effort Aliu was putting into practice and Aliu fired back. According to the source and the people at camp, Hunter "told Akim to pack his bags"

Here are some of the blogs that have been updated today.

Big Red Puckhead


Michigan Junior Hockey

Regan's Rant

Taking Note

The Red Deer Scene


The Terrier Hockey Fan Blog


That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

USA U-18 Team

USA Hockey officially releases the roster.

GOALTENDERS


Name: Brandon Maxwell (3/22/91)
NHL Draft:2009
College Commitment: Boston College (Hockey East)
Major Junior Rights: Erie Otters (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 12-12 3.30GAA .889SV%
U-18 Team: 9-3-1 1.91GAA .925SV%
U-18 WJC: 4-1 2.21GAA .926SV%

Name: Adam Murray (3/28/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Denver University (WHCA)
Major Junior Rights: Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 8-9-1 4.21GAA .868SV%

Defense

Name: Tyler Amburgey (5/6/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 45 games 2 goals 6 assists 8 points 96pims

Name: Sam Calabrese (3/18/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Notre Dame (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Oshawa Generals (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 47 games 4 goals 8 assists 12 points 16pims

Name: Richie Crowley (5/9/ 91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: None
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 58 games 3 goals 6 assists 9 points 36pims

Name: Cam Fowler (12/5/91)
NHL Draft: 2010
College Commitment: Notre Dame (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 59 games 2 goals 12 assists 14 points 12pims

Name: Nick Mattson (10/25/91)
NHL Draft: 2010
College Commitment: North Dakota (WCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Unknown
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 62 games 1 goal 21 assists 22 points 14pims

Name: John Ramage (2/7/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: St. Louis Bandits (NAHL): 45 games 4 goals 5 assists 75pims

Name: Brendan Rempel (4/24/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: None
2007-2008 Stats: N/A

Name: William Wrenn (3/16/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Denver University (WHCA)
Major Junior Rights: Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 63 games 0 goals 7 assists 7 points 65pims

Forwards

Name: Ryan Bourque (1/3/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: New Hampshire (Hockey East)
Major Junior Rights: Quebec Remparts (QMJHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 41 games 15 goals 12 assists 27 points 10pims
U-18 Team: 20 games 2 goals 9 assists 11 points 14pims
U-18 WJC: 7 games 2 goals 3 assists 5 points 4pims

Name: Chris Brown (2/3/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Michigan (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 63 games 13 goals 7 assists 20 points 74pims

Name: Jerry D’Amigo (2/19/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Renssalaer (ECAC)
Major Junior Rights: Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 64 games 11 goals 17 assists 28 points 75pims

Name: John Henrion (1/19/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: New Hampshire (Hockey East)
Major Junior Rights: None
2007-2008 Stats: Boston Jr Bruins (EJHL): 45 games 34 goals 19 assists 53 points 72pims

Name: Kevin Lynch (4/23/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Michigan (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Plymouth Whalers (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 63 games 19 goals 6 assists 25 points 44pims

Name: Chris McCarthy (7/30/91)
NHL Draft:2009
College Commitment: Boston College (Hockey East)
Major Junior Rights: None
2007-2008 Stats: N/A

Name: Jeremy Morin (4/16/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 37 games 28 goals 18 assists 46 points 30pims
U-18 Team: 21 games 13 goals 13 assists 26 points 28pims
U-18 WJC: 7 games 6 goals 2 assists 8 points 6pims

Name: Kyle Palmieri (2/1/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Notre Dame (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Guelph Storm (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 39 games 20 goals 10 assists 30 points 51pims

Name: Kenny Ryan (7/10/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Boston College (Hockey East)
Major Junior Rights: Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 49 games 10 goals 13 assists 23 points 65pims

Name: Drew Shore (1/29/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Denver University (WHCA)
Major Junior Rights: Chilliwck Bruins (WHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 54 games 13 goals 25 assists 38 points 18pims

Name: A.J. Treais (2/4/ 91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Michigan (CCHA)
Major Junior Rights: Niagara IceDogs (OHL)
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 63 games 12 goals 17 assists 29 points 20pims

Name: David Valek (3/19/91)
NHL Draft: 2009
College Commitment: Uncommitted
Major Junior Rights: Unknown
2007-2008 Stats: U-17 Team: 49 games 9 goals 10 assists 19 points 36pims

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Thursday, August 28, 2008

BREAKING NEWS: Alberta to Host the 2012 WJC's

Here's the press release:

CALGARY, AB/ EDMONTON, AB - Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), announced on Thursday that the Province of Alberta will host the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship, in Calgary and Edmonton.

The 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship will take place from late December 2011 to early January 2012 in Alberta at the Pengrowth Saddledome in Calgary and Rexall Place in Edmonton.

"This is an exciting day for hockey fans in Alberta and throughout Canada," said Hockey Canada president and CEO Bob Nicholson. "The bid group from Alberta put forward a great plan, and the site selection committee was particularly impressed with the bid's focus on making tickets affordable for all hockey fans. We had two outstanding bids to consider and both groups would have been great hosts of the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship. Today, after completing the selection process, we feel that Alberta will present an event that will make all Canadians proud."

The schedule will consist of 31 games, created and approved by both the IIHF and the 10 competing nations. The game schedule will not be determined or announced until early 2011.

The Alberta Bid was led by a team from the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Sport Tourism Authority, Edmonton Events International, Edmonton Oil Kings, Calgary Hitmen, Northlands and Hockey Alberta.

"A joint Calgary-Edmonton bid is a natural choice when it comes to the World Junior Championship," said CHL president David Branch. "Both markets are home to model junior franchises and some of the best junior hockey fans in the country."

The Alberta bid was chosen from two potential groups who made final presentations in Toronto on June 9-10. The other finalist was a bid from Toronto.

"We are thrilled to have partnered with Edmonton and won the bid to host this prestigious event," said Jim Peplinski, Co-chair of the Alberta bid. "The World Junior Hockey Championship is truly a Canadian tradition and a tremendous event that we anticipate will bring significant benefit to the Province of Alberta, the tourism industry, and the hockey community."

Canada will host the IIHF World Junior Championship twice before the 2012 event takes place in Calgary and Edmonton: the 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship will be hosted by Ottawa from December 26, 2008 to January 5, 2009 and the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship will be held in Saskatoon and Regina, SK from late December 2009 to early January 2010.

Key elements of the Alberta bid:

The Alberta bid group has a very strong business plan that includes a projected championship attendance record of more than 475,000 tickets sold and an estimated economic impact to the province of over $45 million. The plan also guarantees affordability for families, with 42 per cent of the championship tickets to be priced between $12 and $40 each, and a legacy plan that will have a long-lasting impact on hockey in Alberta at the conclusion of the event. The Alberta bid group connects all levels of hockey in its plan, including minor hockey, Hockey Alberta, the CHL and the NHL.

The bid includes a strong partnership with the five Alberta-based WHL franchises (Calgary Hitmen, Edmonton Oil Kings, Lethbridge Hurricanes, Medicine Hat Tigers and Red Deer Rebels).

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Signings Galore

The Los Angeles Kings have signed their second round pick, Vyatcheslav Voinov, to a standard three year entry level deal. If you remember correctly, he's apart of the six Russian players that are being investigated by the International Ice Hockey Federation. Now it will be up to the Kings if he will play in the AHL or the QMJHL. The Moncton Wildcats hold his CHL rights. He has played with men the last few years in the old Russian Super League. Maybe they will give him a nine game look in the AHL and go from there.

They also signed forward Andrei Loktionov. He was drafted by the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League.

The Portland Winterhawks have signed the 2008 second overall pick, Ty Rattie, to a Western Hockey League player contract yesterday. The 6'0 forward had 75 goals and 56 assists in 33 league games in the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League.

The Kamloops Blazers have signed a few players. They signed two California kids in defenseman Brandon Underwood, and forward Uriah Machuga. Underwood plays with LA Jr Kings and Machuga comes from the California Wave program. The team also signed forwards Cole Grbavac, and Neil Landry.

Talk about a stinker of a press conference in London, they have announced the signing of Christian Thomas. I thought they signed him back in June. If I was a sports writer in the area, I would demand some real news and compensation for drive down to the arena. It was so tight lipped, many people thought some big was going down.

The Sudbury Wolves got some bad news when they found out Nick Quinn and Kevin Lind won't be in camp. It sounded like a total surprise to General Manager and Head Coach Mike Foligno.

"Nick Quinn caught us off guard," Foligno said. "We felt all along he would come to camp, but he told us this late in the game that he was going to stay down south because he's not ready. He'll be playing Tier II hockey with father this year."

Lind is a highly ranked prospect who the Wolves took a flyer on in this past summer's draft after the young American said he was going the U. S. college route instead. However, Lind did attend the Wolves' rookie summer camp and impressed, especially during an impressive scrimmage-long, back-and- forth battle with top pick John McFarland. The Wolves were hoping the rookie camp experience would woo Lind to Sudbury during the summer and still have hopes of having him in a Wolves uniform down the road.

"Kevin Lind is going to stay with his family and maybe look at coming here next year instead," Foligno said.

That's a big surprise for a second round pick to not too show up. Maybe he has NCAA aspirations but it sounds like the team didn't know about the aspirations. Lind on the other hand, it didn't really surprise me that he didn't show up. Showing up at rookie camp doesn't mean he wants to play Major Junior. It's ice time during the summer.

The Halifax Mooseheads have traded for Scott McDonald, who saw very little time with the Saint John Sea Dogs last year. The Sea Dogs receive an eighth round pick in 2010 but most likely it will turn into a sixth round pick if McDonald plays one game this season.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

London Will Hold a Press Conference

The London Knights have called for a 11:30am press conference tomorrow. No one really knows, they could be adding a second assistant coach. A rumor is that they will bring in former NHL player, Steve Thomas as the second assistant. Thomas son, Christian Thomas, was London's 1st round pick. Dave Gagner who was one of assistant coaches last season got the job when his son Sam Gagner signed with the Knights. They have said they be okay with just one assistant. Dave left to join the Vancouver Canucks this summer as an assistant coach. Others have speculating they will be announcing a roster move of some sort.

Don Cherry also paid a visit to training camp today.

A couple Windsor Spitfires stories. The first one is profiling 2nd Round pick Austin Watson. The second one is some training camp notes. It will be interesting how Watson does because I have heard he has a lot a talent. The ISS had him as the second best player in the OHL Draft after John McFarland.

The Ottawa 67's have signed their top three picks. Tyler Toffoli is their first round pick. He had 68 goals and 106 assists with the Toronto Junior Canadiens. Derek Hartwick, a defenseman, had nine goals and 34 assists in 66 games with the Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs. Pieter Schinkelshoek comes from the London Jr. Knights program where he 25 goals and 32 assists in 47 contests.

Regan's Rant has video of Shane McColgan lacing it up with the big boys. McColgan with the Kelowna Rockets 1st round pick this spring. He will rejoin the LA Jr. Kings for his Midget season and play a handful of games with the Rockets this season. The Fargo Force drafted him this spring also.

Russia defeated Sweden 5-2. Russian goals were by Dadonov (2), Dubrovsky, Golovkov and Bochkov. Pechursky was in goal.

NHL.com has a feature on the TV-Puck tournament that's held in Sweden each year. It's a tournament that showcases the upcoming teenagers to the Swedish audience. You can think of every major NHL Star or bust to come out of Sweden has played in this tournament. I guess it's the Little League World Series of hockey in Sweden.

Brad Stebner, a defenseman, has committed to Michigan Tech for the 2009-2010 season. Last season with the Fort McMurray Oil Barons of the Alberta Junior Hockey League he had four goals and seven assists in 49 games.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Linkorama

Hockey's Future is starting to release their Top 20 prospects for each club.

Carolina Hurricanes

Florida Panthers


New Jersey Devils

Pittsburgh Penguins

Anaheim Ducks

Edmonton Oilers

St. Louis Blues

Chicago Blackhawks

The Sarnia Sting have cut defenseman Kyle Quick and ten other players. His brother is Kevin Quick who was kicked off the University of Michigan because of stealing a credit card. He was also a draft pick of the Sarnia Sting.

The Prince Albert Raiders have cut former first rounder Cole Penner because he came into camp out of shape. In this post the Moose Jaw Warriors are making way for a new arena.

Small Thoughts At Large has other WHL news.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Early Morning News

The first day is complete of the Four Nations Tournament in Europe.

Russia defeated Finland 4-3. Krill Petrov had a hat trick for the Russians. He was drafted by the New York Islanders in the third round this year. I had one scout tell me last March that he had 1st round talent for this past draft.

The Czech Republic defeated Sweden 4-3 also.

The Nashville Predators have signed forward Nick Sparling. With the Kitchener Rangers last year he had 38 goals and 34 assists in 59 games. He was a third round pick in 2007 and it's an entry level deal.

The Western College Hockey Blog had a couple interesting podts. The first one, is the top 51 Americans that he has seen for the 2009 Draft. I thought it's a pretty good list overall.

The second story is about Jordan Schmaltz and Young Commitments. He makes some interesting points. As much I think it's crazy to see 14 and 15 year olds commit, it's part of the game. The coaches can't do anything about it or these kids will head up north to the CHL. It would be nice to find a solution but it's not going to happen. The other college sports don't have a rival league that goes after the same players. Basketball could have Europe to deal with in the near future but that's about it.

The College Hockey Recruit Exchange has its Top 15 prospects from all over. Jeremy Morin tops the list for the second straight month. Most think he will be in Kitchener at some point. On the Harvard Thread on uscho.com someone posted that Boston College said no to him. Morin's academics are probably scaring schools away. I don't see him doing a Jimmy Hayes and waiting an extra year to get his academics straighten out. At this point I see him in Kitchener next season.

A couple USHL stories. The first one is about George Hughes of Westwood, Massauchettes heading to Waterloo this season. The other is about Dan Ford spending his senoir year in Sioux City.

The Fargo Force have released their roster.

The Saint John Sea Dogs have released their training camp roster.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Afternoon News

The biggest news that broke while you were sleeping was Seth Ambroz committing to the University of Minnesota for the 2011 season. He lit up the Select 15's earlier this month with eight goals and three assists. With New Prague Trojans last year as a freshman, he had 36 goals and 32 assists in 27 games.

A source has confirmed that his current plan for this season is to play with the Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League. It should be interesting if he leaves for the National Team Development Program for the 2009-2010 season. The Seattle Thunderbirds have his WHL rights.

The Tri-City Americans have signed their 2nd Round Pick, Nils Moser, to a Standard Player Agreement. With the Airdrie AAA Bantam club in Alberta, he tallied 28 goals and 46 assists. This season, he's heading to the famed Notre Dame Hounds Midget AAA club in Wilcox, Saskatchewan.

The Regina Pats have come to terms with defenseman Myles Bell. He was their 1st Round Selection in 2008. This offensive defenseman had 17 goals and 15 assists in 31 games.

Former Lethbridge Hurricane and Tri-City American, Colton Yellow Horn, will be with the Red Bulls Salzburg of the Austria Erste Bank Liga. He had 48 goals and 49 assists with the Tri-City Americans.

Ryan McDonough who played for the Saginaw Spirit lasy year is also trying out for the Red Bulls Salzburg this season. If he doesn't make the team he will rejoin the Spirit. He had 45 goals and 44 assists last year. Don't confused with the Montreal Canadiens draft pick Ryan McDonagh who plays for University of Wisconsin.

Baie-Comeau and the Quebec Ramparts (in the left hand column) release their training camp roster.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Some Roster Changes

Russia released their roster for the Four Nations even this week. The roster I posted last week was their training camp roster. Sweden also made a few changes because of injuries from last weeks roster.

Russia

Goaltenders

Sergei Gaiduchenko 06.06.1989
Alexander Pechursky 04.06.1990

Defensemen

Ilya Bochkov 10.12.1989
Mikhail Churlyaev 22.10.1989
Igor Golovkov 17.05.1990
Maxim Goncharov 15.06.1989
Andrei Konev 26.01.1989
Alexander Osipov 24.03.1989
Mikhail Pashnin 11.05.1989

Forwards

Alexei Cherepanov 15.01.1989
Pavel Chernov 30.01.1990
Evgeny Dadonov 12.03.1989
Egor Dubrovsky 18.01.1989
Dmitri Kagarlitsky 01.08.1989
Nikita Klyukin 10.11.1989
Anton Lazarev 29.05.1990
Evgeny Mons 23.03.1989
Kirill Petrov 13.04.1990
Alexei Potapov 02.03.1989
Vladislav Sokolov 23.06.1989
Maxim Trunev 07.09.1990

Sweden

Goalies

1 GK Svedberg Niklas MODO Hockey SWE 04.09.89 Stockholm 186 74 L
30 GK Eriksson Joacim Brynäs IF SWE 09.04.90 Gävle 186 86 R

Defensemen

2 D Eriksson Alexander Brampton Battalion CAN 21.03.89 Ånäset 185 91 L
3 D Erixon Sebastian Timrå IK SWE 12.09.89 Sundsvall 180 80 L
4 D Bozic Dennis Linköpings HC SWE 02.08.90 Södertälje 177 82 R
5 D Hellgren Jens Frölunda HC SWE 06.03.89 Björbo 191 90 L
6 D Lundgren Niclas VIK Västerås HK SWE 15.10.89 Västerås 183 85 L
7 D Rundblad David Skellefteå AIK SWE 08.10.90 Lycksele 187 85 R
8 D Deilert Alexander Djurgårdens IF SWE 10.02.89 Stockholm 181 81 R

Forwards

11 F Enström Thomas MODO Hockey SWE 03.03.89 Örnsköldsvik 167 78 R
12 F Änilane Victor Rögle BK SWE 08.06.89 Göteborg 190 90 L
13 F Viksten Daniel Mora IK SWE 10.09.89 Mora 179 75 R
15 F Despotovic Daniel Södertälje SK SWE 09.12.89 Södertälje 187 82 R
16 F Erkgärds Johan Bofors IK SWE 12.11.89 Hagfors 183 83 L
17 F Eriksson Henrik Djurgårdens IF SWE 15.04.90 Stockholm 183 95 L
18 F Silfverberg Jakob Brynäs IF SWE 13.10.90 Gävle 183 83 R
20 F Bejmo Emil Bofors IK SWE 10.10.89 Karlstad 180 77 L
22 F Johansson Marcus Skåre BK SWE 06.10.90 Landskrona 181 82 L
23 F Klingberg Carl Frölunda HC SWE 28.01.91 Göteborg 190 90 R
24 F Thegel Henrik Brynäs IF SWE 04.01.90 Stockholm 185 83 R
25 F Quist William Nybro Vikings IF SWE 31.07.89 Nybro Vikings IF192 87 L
29 F Lander Anton Timrå IK SWE 24.04.91 Sundsvall 182 84 L

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Monday, August 25, 2008

More News

Akim Aliu of the London Knights have signed a three entry level deal with the Chicago Blackhawks today. The 2007 2nd round pick spent time with the London Knights last year where he had 28 goals and 33 assists in 60 games. Aliu also spent time with the Windsor Spitfires and the Sudbury Wolves in his Ontario Hockey League career. He was born in Okene, Nigeria. Another NHL prospect, Kyle Okposo who plays for the New York Islanders, dad is from Nigeria.

With Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews leading the way for the Blackhawks, they also have drafted toughness to protect their young stars. Along with Aliu, Kyle Beach isn't afraid to drop the gloves. He's the Blackhawks 1st round selection in 2008.

Speaking of the Blackhawks, their Alumni will take on the Chicago Steel who play in the United States Hockey League on September, 13th. This should be interesting to see if one of the Steel players will go after Steve Poapst who's the Steel Head Coach. Should be a good game to go see.

Frank Grzeszczak will head to the Erie Otters training camp. He was previously was suspended by the team.

The New York Rangers have signed Czech defenseman Tomas Kundratek who was their third round selection in the 2008 Draft. With HC Ocelári Trinec of the Czech Extraliga he recorded one assist in 14 matches. He had one goal at the 2008 World Junior Championships.

This deal probably got done with the fact he will be with the Medicene Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League this season.

There's a strong possability that
Vitaly Karamnov will be playing with the Dinamo Moscow organization.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Slow Monday

Two OHL signings that happened this weekend.

The Oshawa Generals have apparently signed Neil Conway an overaged goaltender. The Concord, Ohio native split last season between the Owen Sound Attack of the Ontario Hockey League and the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League. He spent most of his time with the Gamblers where he was 8-17-4 with a 3.34GAA and a .896SV%. With the Attack, he only appeared in one contest.

The Generals needs a back up goalie. Right now, Daryl Borden should be the starting goalie for Oshawa. This tandem should allow their number one selection Kevin Bailie to develop at the Junior A or Midget level.

The Belleville Bulls and Scott Howe come to terms. Howe was their fourth round selection in the 2008 OHL Priority Selection. Last year with Team Maryland Under 16 team he had 52 goals and 42 assists in 56 games.

Some news that came down in the last hour. The Kitchener Rangers acquired Steve Lock from the Plymouth Whalers for a 15th round pick in 2010.

Yale received a 2011 commitment from 92 winger Charles Orzetti. He hails from New Jersey.

The Halifax Mooseheads have released their training camp roster.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Traverse City Tournament

The Dallas Stars have released their roster for the Traverse City Tournament that's hosted by Detroit. The tournament will be held from September 12th t0 September 17th.

70 Jamie Benn LW 6.02 185 DAL-07 (5-129) Kelowna (WHL)
96 Fabian Brunnstrom F 6.01 203 Farjestad (SEL)
11 Aaron Gagnon C 5.11 189 PHX-04 (8-240) Iowa (AHL)
52 Luke Gazdic LW 6.03 210 DAL-07 (6-172) Erie (OHL)
32 Sergei Korostin RW 5.11 180 DAL-07 (3-64) Moscow Dynamo (RSL)
15 Perttu Lindgren C 6.00 185 DAL-05 (3-75) Iowa (AHL)
18 James Neal LW 6.02 185 DAL-05 (2-33) Iowa (AHL)
51 Michael Neal LW 6.02 188 DAL-07 (5-149) Belleville (OHL)
53 Ondrej Roman LW 6.00 173 DAL-07 (5-136) Spokane (WHL)
12 Raymond Sawada RW 6.02 205 DAL-04 (2-52) Cornell (NCAA)
57 Colton Sceviour RW 5.11 201 DAL-07 (4-112) Lethbridge (WHL)
23 Tyler Shelast F 6.01 202 Michigan Tech (NCAA)
42 Matt Tassone C 6.00 200 DAL-08 (6-176) Swift Current (WHL)
46 * Pierre-Alexandre Vandall LW 5.11 170 Shawinigan (QMJHL)
DEFENSEMEN
65 * Wes Cunningham D 5.11 174 Plymouth (OHL)
54 * Marc-Andre Dorion D 5.11 172 Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)
24 Trevor Ludwig D 6.01 210 DAL-04 (6-183) Providence College (NCAA)
45 * Guillaume Monast D 6.02 201 Halifax (QMJHL)
36 * Matt Stephenson D 6.02 204 St. Cloud State (NCAA)
55 Ivan Vishnevskiy D 6.00 180 DAL-06 (1-27) Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
GOALTENDERS
01 Tyler Beskorowany G 6.04 203 DAL-08 (2-59) Owen Sound (OHL)
33 Matt Climie G 6.03 185 Bemidji State (NCAA)

Three players to watch out for are Sergei Korostin, Jamie Benn, and Fabian Brunnstrom. This will be Korostin's first real competition in North America. He might play in a London Knight's exhibition game before hand but I don't know their schedule. I am sure someone from London will fill me in. Korostin did play in the North American Hockey League last year after begining the year in Russia. With London this year, he should have the advantage over other Europeans because spent half a year in North America last year.

Benn has already had a great summer this his play at Canada's World Junior squad. He should have a big year in Kelowna this year.

Brunnstrom in the most intriguing player as he was the hottest undrafted player to come around in a while. He played in the Swedish Elite League last season. He should be in Dallas this season.

I heard a lot of good things about goaltender Tyler Beskorowany. Defenseman Ivan Vishnevskiy is also a good player.

Sarnia Sting forward Jamie Arniel has pleaded guilty. He was caught drinking and driving in June. He was a fourth round selection of the Boston Bruins this year.

Could the WHL follow the other two CHL leagues and considering dropping the Import Draft? The Everett Silvertips have learned that both Vitaly Karamnov and Lukas Vartovnik will not return to Everett this season.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

USA Goes 3-1

The USA Under 17 Select team is coming home with a record of 3-1 after their victory over Slovakia. They defeated the Slovaks 5-2. The Americans were led by Massachusetts native Billy Arnold who had three goals and added an assist. The game started off with Slovakia getting out to a 2-0 lead in the first period. The Americans came back and ended the period down 2-1 with a goal by Ben Marshall.

It was the Billy Arnold show for the rest of the way.
He would get would get two goals in the second. Michael Mersch would assist on both efforts. Justin Faulk assisted on the first goal which was a powerplay tally.

In the third, Arnold got his third goal with Faulk assisting on the play. Arnold would return the favor when he assisted on Faulk's goal to end the scoring. Austin Czarnik got the second assist on Faulk's goal.

Arnold was named the best forward of the tournament. He had four goals and three assists in five games.

The QMJHL have received recommendations on fighting. These recommendations could be put in place in a meeting in September.

Here's Finland' roster for the Under 20 Tournament between the Czech Republic, Russia, Sweden, and Finland.

Goaltenders
32 Harri Säteri, Tappara
69 Juha Metsola, Lethbridge Hurricanes

Defensemen
9 Jere Ölander, Jokerit
14 Ilari Melart, HIFK
24 Veli-Matti Talonen, HIFK
34 Santeri Alatalo, HPK (-90)
37 Niko Kluuskeri, TPS
44 Nico Manelius, Jokerit (-91)
50 Veli-Matti Vittasmäki, TPS (-90)
54 Heikki Hyvönen, Jokerit

Forwards
10 Niclas Lucenius, Tappara
19 Olavi Vauhkonen, Jokerit
22 Eero Elo, Lukko (-90)
23 Toni Jalo, TPS
35 Janne Tavi, Pelicans
45 Toni Rajala, Ilves (-91)
55 Jani Lajunen, Blues (-90)
56 Matias Sointu, Ilves (-90)
57 Antti Roppo, Ilves
61 Sami Lähteenmäki, HPK
66 Nestori Lähde, Tappara
68 Matias Myttynen, Ilves (-90)

I have a new poll up in the right hand corner asking are kids committing to colleges to early?

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Friday, August 22, 2008

USA Falls

When I visited USA Hockey's Website this afternoon, I was surprised to see the result of the Under 17 game posted on the site. It wasn't a pretty result as Czech Republic defeated the Americans 3-0. Petr Mrazek stopped all 30 shots he saw in the victory. Andy Iles also stopped 30 shots but also let in three goals. The Czech Republic goal scorers were Jiří Rys, Marek Račuk, and Tomáš Pacanda. United States hit the ice tomorrow at 12:30 Eastern Time to finish off the tournament.

Some more Sudbury Wolves news. They traded 2007 6th round pick, Colin Martin, to the London Knights for a sixth round pick in the 2009 Draft.

Christian Thomas, London Knights first round selection was signed earlier this summer.

In other Kitchener Rangers news, the team said they will have defenseman Ben Shutron for his overage season. The Chicago Blackhawks fourth round selection in 2006 had two goals and four assists between the Kingston Frontenacs and the Kitchener Rangers last season.

The three teams that put in a bid for the 2010 Memorial Cup are the Brandon Wheat Kings, the Kelowna Rockets, and the Everett Silvertips. Nick Patterson over at the Silvertips Blog is reporting that the Silvertips are the third team putting a bid in.

TSN is reporting that former Toronto Maple Leafs coach, Pat Quinn, could be the leading canidate for the head coaching job for the World Junior squad. The other is the current assistant coach Willie Desjardins. Quinn lead Canada's Under 18 Team this spring to gold at the Under 18's. If Quinn does get the job, will the Ottawa fans cheer or boo him?

The Gatineau Olympiques announce that former assistant coach Mario Richer will become the new head coach.

The QMJHL opened up the summer trade period today. The Saint John Sea Dogs sent heavyweight Brett Gallant to the Lewiston Maineiacs for a sixth round selection.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Sudbury Signs McFarland

The Sudbury Wolves have come to terms with John McFarland the first selection in the 2008 OHL Priority Selection. With the Toronto Jr. Canadiens he put 96 goals and 69 assists in 76 games in the Greater Toronto Hockey League.

The Sudbury Wolves are trying to speed up the rebuilding process. If they are able to have Nikita Filatov on the team, the offense will be all set. I don't know how good their defense is but goals will be scored for them.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Kitchener Rangers have signed Jeff Skinner. Skinner was the 20th and final selection of the first round. With the Toronto Young Nationals he had 62 goals and 35 assists in fifty contests.

Here's the list of all the first rounders that have signed or haven't signed:

1. McFarland in Sudbury is signed
2. McKegg in Erie is signed
3. Shipley in Owen Sound is signed
4. Gudbranson in Kingston is signed
5. Spooner in Peterborough is not signed
6. O'Connor in Barrie is signed
7. Toffoli in Ottawa is not signed
8. Smith-Pelly n St. Mike's is signed
9. Seguin in Plymouth is signed
10. Saad in Saginaw is not signed- Rumor he will play for them in 2009-2010
11. Sutch in Sarnia is signed
12. McNaughton in Guelph is signed
13. Thomas in London is not signed
14. Hamilton in Niagara is signed
15. Carrick in Brampton is not signed
16. Bailie in Oshawa is signed
17. Fowler in Windsor is not signed
18. Beukeboom in the Soo is signed
19. Silas in Belleville is signed
20. Skinner in Kitchener is signed

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Thursday, August 21, 2008

USA is 2-0

At the 5 Nations Tournament in Prievidza, Slovakia, the United States is 2-0. They defeated Switzerland yesterday 5-2 and got by Germany 3-2.

The United States jumped to a 3-0 against Switzerland. Goals came from Bill Arnold, Brent Darnell, and Colin Markinson to jump out to that early lead in the first period. Switzerland got two goals in the second stanza. The Americans came back with goals in the third by Austin Czarnik and Nick Bjugstad.

USA got on the board first in the game against Germany by a goal from Michael Mersch. Germany would tie it up before the teams went into the dressing room. USA would grab a two goal lead with a goal in the second and third. The goals were by Brent Darnell and Max Edson. Germany would add a goal later in the third.

USA Hockey announced three potential cities to host the World Junior Championships in 2011. My money is on Buffalo because its so close to Toronto. All three cities are close to the Canadian Border which would fill the seats up. A month or so ago a couple of blogs said the finalists would be close to the border.

The Kingston Frontenacs have come to terms with their first round selection in the 2008 Draft. Erik Gudbranson was rated as the top defenseman in the 2008 Draft by the OHL’s Central Scouting. With the Ottawa Jr. 67's he had 15 goals and 40 assists in 70 games.

The team also struck a deal with Ty Mort and Charles Sarault. Both were second round picks.

The Western College Hockey Blog is also reporting that Brad Walch will be heading to the Saginaw Spirit. I mentioned this here on Tuesday.

The Scouting News has two free podcasts on their site. One with Bob Tory, who's the head coach of the Tri-City Americans. The other is the interview with Notre Dame Head Coach Jeff Jackson. Both talk about the state of recruiting in the CHL and in the NCAA.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

More on Groulx

What a surprise that the junior hockey world learned last night. I didn't expect Benoit Groulx to leave the Gatineau Olympiques with less then ten days until training camp starts. Talk about leaving the team (Gatineau) in a tough situation. They were left to hangout to dry and are scrambling to find a coach. Last night I was talking to a friend and we were talking about where theam goes from here. Do they stay within the organization or find someone out side the club. We both agreed that it's too late to find someone outside the team. The best way to go about it is to promote within to keep as much stability as possible. Will the coach have the interim tag placed on him, that's another question that should be answered in the next few days.

Not only he leaves Gatineau but Canada has no head coach for the World Junior Champions this season. Hockey Canada has more time to find a coach but the coach that would probably of gotten the job, Bill Peters the head coach of the Spokane Chiefs the Memorial Cup Champions, has also took a job in the AHL with the Rockford Ice Hogs. Probably another canidate was Peter DeBoer but he left for the Florida Panthers. The previous coach, Craig Hartsburg, took the Ottawa Senators job (Hey, worse case scenerio they will use him because the tournament is in Ottawa.).

Willie Desdjardins an assistant coach with Team Canada told the Medicine Hat News on Wednesday night that he hasn’t heard a thing. I would also take Clem Jodain off the list as a potential head coach for Team Canada. He's currently the Head Coach of the Rimouski Oceanic of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He didn't want to be the assistant coach this year because he wanted to focus on the Memorial Cup this year. Rimouski hosts the tournament this year.

Taking the timing out of it, it was a good career move for Groulx. He lead the Olympiques organization to three QMJHL Championships in the last six seasons. Last year the Olympiques were the third seed in the Telus Division and ran through the playoffs. He's still young at the age of 40.

The Florida Panthers have two of the four coaches from last year's Memorial Cup in their organization.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

BREAKING NEWS: Benoit Groulx Leaves Gatineau

The Gatineau Olympiques have learned tonight that their head coach, Benoit Groulx, has taken the head coaching position with the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League.

Not only does he leave as the Gatineau Olympiques bench boss, he was going to be the bench boss of the Canadian World Junior Squad. The tournament takes place basically across the street in Ottawa.

I will have more later on tomorrow either here or on “The Asylum.”

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Afternoon Notes

The biggest news of this afternoon is Zac Dalpe staying on course and is heading to Ohio State. He was a second round draft pick of the Carolina Hurricanes this summer. It looked like he would be heading to the Ontario Hockey League after being drafted by the Hurricanes. In May, the Plymouth Whalers drafted him in the second round of the OHL Draft. The Whalers and the Hurricanes are both owned by Peter Karmanos.

Last year with Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League he had 27 goals and 36 assists in 46 games.

The London Knights and the Peterborough Petes completed a minor trade today. The Petes will receive Tony Romano for a conditional eighth round pick in 2009. He was a sixth round pick of the New Jersey Devils in 2006. In the 2006-2007 season, he played at Cornell where he had nine goals and ten assists in 29 contests. He signed with the London Knights last summer and this past season he had 12 goals and 10 assists.

James Bettauer has signed on with the Chilliwack, Bruins. He was Dalpe's teammate last year with the Penticton Vees. He had three assists in 42 games. The Kamloops Blazers have signed Ryan Hanes. He was a fifth round selection in the 2007 Draft. He played with Thompson Blazers of the BC Major Midget League.

The OHL and the WHL will begin drug testing this season. The CHL cleared up how teams can bring free agents into camp that don't belong to their territory. Most likely this is a direct result from QMJHL teams picking up players from Ontario. After going through a couple of OHL Drafts, Claude Giroux and Paul Byron found a home with the Gatineau Olympiques. Giroux was a 1st round pick of the Philadelphia Flyers in 2006. He should be with the Flyers this season. Byron was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the sixth round of the 2007 Draft.

USA Hockey continues to hide stories. The USA Under-17 Select team (Not the NTDP Team) lost to Slovakia 3-2 in a tune up contests for the 2008 Under-17 Five Nations Tournament. Aaron Harstad and Max Edson. It will be another three days until they post the results of the Switzerland game that took place today to kick the tournament off.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Stefan Legein to Hang Them Up?

According to the Columbus Dispatch, the 19 year old is thinking about hanging the skates up.

"Right winger Stefan Legein, the Blue Jackets' second-round pick in 2007 and one of the top up-and-coming agitators, has decided to quit playing hockey.

Not joking.

I didn't believe it either, but it's been confirmed just a few minutes ago by the Blue Jackets. They got a call today from Legein's agent, Doug Woods, telling them he won't be at training camp and has decided to hang up his skates. He'll be 20 years old in three months.

This story is shocking on so many different levels. Earlier today, I got an email from a Puck-Rakers reader, Bethany, of Bethany's Hockey Rants. Actually, it was a "forward" of an email she got from an anonymous person in Ontario saying Legein had retired.

After a slew of phone calls to sources throughout the NHL, I finally got somebody to tell be off the record that's it true. Just a few minutes ago, Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson confirmed it.

Legein's mother, Christine, said around 5 p.m. that she hadn't heard the news yet. Either Stefan has some explaining to do, or Mrs. Legein wasn't in the talking mood. I can't blame her if she wasn't. UPDATE: Just talked to Stefan's father, who said: "Until Sept. 20 (when training camp starts), he hasn't quit anything." He did confirm, however, that Doug Woods still represents his son as an agent.

I've since gotten two more calls from north of the border saying it's true. Unbelievable. This isn't a 35-year-old veteran we're talking about, or a 25-year-old who's never going to get an NHL shot. This is a young player with a real bright future ahead of him.

We have a full story in Wednesday's Dispatch. Somehow I don't think it'll be our last story on the topic.

In other news ...

I'll have another update later tonight about Filatov. This is good news for you Blue Jackets fans."

I am surprised because when I saw him in the World Juniors, he was a pest. He always seemed to be having a good time off the ice when was being interviewed. People on message boards are asking why and he will comeback after he sees how good he had it playing hockey. I can't fathom what this kid is going through and the daily grind of the hockey season physically and emotionally. Maybe if people were put in his shoes, they might understand.

As for the Columbus Blue Jackets, they will miss a big part of the future. He won't light the lamp because that's not his style. He does everything else. If this story is true, it's another draft pick that didn't turn out their way. Can't blame the scouting staff because no one thought this would happen. Teams will pay more attention to the psychological testing they do at the Draft Combine.

As for the Nikita Filatov news, he has been granted a USA Work visa. He will be in North America on September 7th.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

We Have a First

Defenseman Jordan Schmaltz of the Chicago Mission program is the first play to commit for the 2012-2013 season. Schmaltz made the commitment to the University of Wisconsin. With the Mission program of the Mid West Elite Hockey League last season, he had six goals and 14 assists in 29 games with the Bantam Majors team. He had one assist at the Select 15's.

It was funny, Monday night I was chatting with Ryan over at the Unofficial USHL Hockey Blog Monday night. We were talking about kids committing for the 2011-2012 season and how ridiculous it is. Now a day later we have a commitment for the 2012-2013 season.

How young is too young? I knew what I wanted to do with my life at that age but I wasn't thinking about college. Wisconsin is getting all these highly touted players, will there be enough ice time for everyone. It's still four years away but they have four defenseman already committed between 2009-2011.

It's also official that Bjorn Krupp is heading to the Belleville Bulls of the Ontario Hockey League. he was apart of the National Team Development Program Under 17 team last season. He had one goal and five assists in 63 contests. He was Belleville's second round pick in 2007. His father is former NHLer Uwe Krupp.

The Oshawa Generals have signed goaltender Kevin Bailie, their first round pick. With the Quinte Red Devils he appeard in 43 games and had a 1.81GAA and three shutouts.

With that signing, about half of the first rounders have been signed in the OHL.

I was told tonight that there was a rumor that defenseman Brad Walch might sign with the Saginaw Spirit. He played with the Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League where he had four assists in 53 games. His hometown is Saginaw. The Saginaw Spirit selected him in the fifth round of the 2007 draft.

His teammate with Des Moines, Josh Balch, committed to Yale. With Buccaneers last season, he had a two goals and an assist in 19 contests. This is commitment either for the 2009 or 2010 season.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

NTDP News

I got word from a source that the four players that have received an invite to the National Team Development Program for the 2009-2010 season are Colin Jacobs, Rocco Grimaldi, Vincent Trocheck, and Robbie Russo.

The source was also surprised that they didn't offer a spot to Seth Ambroz who lead the Select 15's in scoring with eight goals and three assists.

Jacobs had two goals and four assists in five games at the Select 15's. This spring he was drafted in the fourth round of the WHL Bantam Draft to the Seattle Thunder.

Rocco Grimaldi had four goals and two assists in five games at the Select 15's. As an underager with the Little Caesars Minor Midget Team last season, he had 38 points in 29 games. That was good enough to be tied for first on the team in points. His 19 goal was second on the team.

Vincent Trocheck also had six points at the National Select 15's. He had four goals also. Trocheck is alo from the Little Caesars program. Last year he was a part of the Bantam Major team where he lead the team with 25 goals and 31 assists in 30 games. He will move up to the
Minor Midget team this year.

Robbie Russo had one goal at the Select 15's. He's the only player that's not a forward out of the four. He had two goals and five assists in 31 contests with the Chicago Mission Minor Midget Program. He's already committed to the University of Notre Dame for the 2011-2012 season.

This is nothing new to invite kids a year in advance. Last year around this time, USA Hockey invited Jon Merrill and Luke Moffatt to join this year's Under 17 program. The source also pointed out that this a weak birth year and the NTDP doesn't want to lose anyone to major juniors for next season's U-17 team. Seattle wants Jacobs, Ambroz (He was Seattle's 7th round pick.), and Connor Sanvido (Their top pick from British Columbia.) all in uniform next year.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Tuesday Morning Notes

As I mentioned yesterday afternoon, Swift Current and Prince Albert Raiders will be hosting the WHL leg of the 2008 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge. The Ontario Hockey League announced that the Guelph Storm and the Niagara Ice Dogs will play host for the OHL portion of the Challenge.

In other OHL news, the Kitchener Rangers and the Niagara IceDogs have completed a minor deal yesterday. The Kitchener Rangers will receive goaltender Adrian Volpe for a 2010 15th round pick. Volpe played in seven games last year with the IceDogs. He was 4-1 with a 2.96GAA and a .909SV%.

Volpe will be Josh Unice's back up for the Rangers. Some fans think Unice could be moved to a contender this season if they are out of it. Maybe the Rangers are grooming Volpe to become the starter if they do deal Unice. Maybe Kitchener could rip a team off like the London Knights did too them last season. In all fairness to the Rangers, they had to make the move to accquire Steve Mason to solitify the goaltending. It just didn't workout for them.

The Omaha Lancers look like they have lost another key player. Joey Diamond was suppose to head to Maine this season but was deferred for the 2009-2010 season. As of right now, he's on the Montreal Juniors 50 man roster. He's a free agent so it's most likely he will stick with the Juniors this season.

The Boston College Eagles have received a 2010 commitment from Chris Kreider of Phillips Andover Academy. He had 26 goals last year.

Apparently USA Hockey are trying to get a couple of players to commit to the Under-17 team for the 2009-2010 season. This according to the Scouting News which says the National Team Development Progam has offered four players a spot on the team. This is just pure specalation but I think Colin Jacobs, Shayne McColgan, and Seth Ambroz could be getting early invites. If anyone has the inside scoop please let me know.

USA Hockey is still taking its time officially announce the NTDP Under 18 Team for this season. Although the roster can found here.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Monday, August 18, 2008

The Portland Winter Hawks Sold?

The Portland WinterHawks of the Western Hockey League looks like they have been sold for a reportedly 7.5 million. Gregg Drinnan who's the sports editor for the Kamloops Daily News broke the story on his blog "Taking Note."

Apparently billionaire Bill Gallacher is the buyer. In a story in the Portland Tribune, the current owner and the general manager are denying the report.

The Portland Winter Hawks may be sold to a “billionaire” this week, but team president Jack Donovan won’t admit it.

“Team is not sold as of now,” says Donovan, denying a report in the Kamloops Daily News. “That’s as far as I want to go.”

The story in Saturday’s edition of the Kamloops paper cites two sources familiar with the Western Hockey League and the Winter Hawks’ situation. The story says the team has been sold to a group headed by Calgary-based businessman Bill Gallacher, pending league approval.

“The money is changing hands Wednesday,” one source tells the Daily News.

“I don’t know of any money changing hands on Wednesday,” says Donovan, a co-owner along with principal owner Jim Goldsmith and John Bryant. “If there’s money in my pocket on Wednesday, we’ll have a party.

“I’ve never met the guy (Gallacher), don’t know if he’s a billionaire. I didn’t say I’ve never heard of him.”

Gallacher is a senior partner with the Nanaimo Clippers of the British Columbia Hockey League, and he’s in the oil business.

“Gallacher is legitimately a billionaire,” a source tells the Kamloops paper. “He’ll be the wealthiest guy in the league. He’s a very sharp guy.”

The paper says the team is selling for $7.5 million Canadian, which would be a record price for a WHL team.

Both sources used by the Kamloops paper say that the new ownership will be making changes on the hockey side of operations. The Daily News reports that Mike Johnston, a former NHL assistant coach, will be named general manager and head coach, with former NHL player Travis Green his assistant GM/coach. A man named Ken Stickney, chief executive of Mandalay Sports Entertainment, would be the team president.

“All I know is what you know,” Winter Hawks GM Ken Hodge says. “I’m not part of the inner circle. The way the story was written, it would affect me and a great deal of people.

“I’m trying to keep our hockey staff together and moving forward. We’re six days (and hours) away from our camp opening.”

OregonLive has thoughts on this story.

The Portland Winter Hawks had rumors come up this past season. I think it wasn't smart by the co-owner and the General Manager act like they were clueless. It doesn't make them look good.

In other WHL news, Taking Note is also reporting that the Swift Current Broncosand the Prince Albert Raiders will host the WHL leg of the 2008 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge. The Saint John Sea Dogs and the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles will host the event when Russia faces the QMJHL All-Stars. The six game event is a selection process for the World Junior Championships for Canada. Russia plays two games against the QMJHL, OHL, and the WHL All-Stars. Since the inception of this event, it has been one sided in favor of the CHL All Stars.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)

Notes From the Ivan Hlinka Tournament

I just got an email from a NHL scout who was at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.

With John Tavares and Victor Hedman the two names that have dominated the headlines for sometime now. The question coming into the season was would anyone make push to crack the top two? Matt Duchene was very good and he thinks highly of Duchene. He had a goal and four assists. The scout said it's still Tavares and Hedman leading the way.

Brayden Schenn was also very solid according to the scout, as Schenn had two goal and four assists.

The other player that was very impressive was Jared Cowen. From this tournament he has become a potential top five pick come June. I am not surprised by this because he was very solid at the Memorial Cup. That was the only time I have seen him and he looked like a veteran out there at 16. If there was no Victor Hedman this year, all the hype would be around him as the defenseman of this draft. Don't get me wrong people talk about Cowan but the hype would be stronger.

The guy that had dominated this tournament was Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi who had three goals and six assists. I guess his performance was speechless because the scout didn't say anything about him.

The big surprise of this tournament was Richard Panik skipping the tournament to make his club team. My personal opinion, this would of been a great chance to show the scouts what he can do against players in his age group. At the same time he's trying to make his club team and will have the World Junior Championships and the Under 18 to show the scouts. He also had a very good Under 18's last year so, they (the scouts) know what he can do at his age level.

Speaking of underagers, Kirill Kabanov of Russia and Mikael Granlund of Finland both had three goals for six points. Both are 2010 eligible and what surprises me is Kabanov making Russia. Russia is always deep in talent and to lead the team to scoring is very impressive. I am not going to say he's the next Ovechkin or Malkin but he's someone to watch out for. Granlund is apart of the Finnish invasion in the next few years. Toni Rajala is the top Finnish player for this year. Granlund will be joined by Teemu Pulkkinen for 2010. Pulkkinen didn't play in this tournament because of an injury.

That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for MVN.com. He's the writer for the Asylum which covers the Lewiston Maineiacs of the QMJHL. He's also a regular contributor to the NHL Source also at MVN.com. He can be reached at fbbhgfan@aol.com)