Nielsen Should Be Moved

Islanders Should Look Into Trading Frans Nielsen 

This season has revealed a lot about many Islanders players that were expected to be big time contributors. In my opinion, one of the biggest disappointments has been Frans Nielsen. Nielsen was expected to contribute on both sides of the puck, but has looked lost at many points throughout the year and has underwhelmed to a large extent. 

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, this year is very important in his career which makes this disappointment even more surprising. I was thinking about his future with the team yesterday and I came to the realization that Nielsen is more expendable than I had previously thought. With young talented centers like Johan Sundström and Casey Cizikas coming up through the system and Josh Bailey's much improved play this season, its getting quite clear that the Islanders have a handful of solid potential suiters that will be able to take the 3rd line role that Nielsen holds. That, along with his expiring contract, makes him a very likely player to be moved. 

Nielsen could bring back a solid return in trade, and possibly could get the Isles the top-four defenseman the team has been looking for. If the Islanders season continues on the path its heading down, I would like to see a move like this made because quite honestly it makes a ton of sense.

Thoughts of Strome In Canada vs. Finland

Thoughts On Ryan Strome's Performance Against Finland

Canada did a great job yesterday in their eight to one romp against Finland. The blowout was seen as a bit of a surprise considering the expectations of Finland being decent coming into the tournament. 

Islanders prospect Ryan Strome, was one of the many Canadian players that had an impressive outing. Strome had one goal and three assists for a total of four points, which means he had a part in half of the Canadian goals. I watched this game twice and both times I zero'd in on the 2011 5th overall selection. 

As expected I was very impressed with his offensive game. He has a ton of creativity and offensive flair, which is made more useful by his impressive hockey sense. He also displayed some nice shooting ability with a few opportunities in the 2nd and a beauty snipe in the 3rd. I was pleased to see that his two-way game has improved dramatically from the last time I've seen him play. He hustled on the back-check and on four occasions broke up the play. 

Even though I saw a lot of nice things from Strome, I was irked by one particular part of his game. His skating needs a lot of work, and it will take a while for it to reach the NHL standards. Luckily for Strome, skating is something that can be improved. We have seen it with Tavares, if he puts some hard work in I am positive his skating will get to where it needs to be, but as of right now its holding him back a little bit.

Overall I liked what I saw from Strome in this one, and I look forward to seeing him in Canada's next game.

World Junior Championship Roster Breakdown

World Junior Championship Roster Breakdowns
Here is a a resource of every player in the upcoming World Junior Championships with their jersey number and their status as an NHL prospect. As an avid prospect and draft follower I know how valuable this information is when watching the WJC's (the BEST event to see the next wave of NHL'ers). Every team's roster is here with every players information.
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Color Key:
Red: The player has already been drafted by an NHL organization.
Blue: The player is eligible for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Green: The player is eligible for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.
Orange: The player is eligible for the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
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Team USA Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
1: Jack Campbell - Soo Greyhounds (OHL)- Drafted by the Stars in the 1st rd (11th OV) in 2010
35: John Gibson - Kitchener Rangers (OHL)- Drafted by the Ducks in the 2nd rd (39th OV) in 2011
29: Andy Iles - Cornell University (ECAC) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen:
5: Adam Clendening - Boston University (HE) - Drafted by Chicago in the 2nd rd (36th OV) in 2011
4: Derek Forbort - U of North Dakota (WCHA) - Drafted by the Kings in the 1st rd (15th OV) in 2010
12: Kevin Gravel - St. Cloud State U (WCHA) - Drafted by the Kings in the 5th rd (148th OV) in 2010
28: Stephen Johns - U of Notre Dame (CCHA) - Drafted by Chicago in the 2nd rd (60th OV) in 2010
15: Jon Merrill - U of Michigan (CCHA) - Drafted by the Devils in the 2nd rd (38th OV) in 2010
24: Jarred Tinordi - London Knights (OHL) - Drafted by the Canadiens in the 1st rd (22nd OV) in 2010
8: Jacob Trouba - U.S. NTDP U-18 (USHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards:
21:Josh Archibald-U Nebraska Omaha (WCHA)-Drafted by the Pens in the 6th rd (174th OV) in 2011
14: Bill Arnold - Boston College (HE) - Drafted by the Flames in the 4th rd (108th OV) in 2010
27: Nick Bjugstad - U of Minnesota (WCHA) - Drafted by the Panthers in the 1st rd (19th OV) in 2010
23: Connor Brickley - U of Vermont (HE) - Drafted by the Panthers in the 2nd rd (50th OV) in 2010
3: Charlie Coyle- Boston U (HE)-Drafted by SJS (1st-28-OV) in 10', then traded to the Minnesota Wild.
2: Austin Czarnik - Miami University (CCHA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
10: Emerson Etem - Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) - Drafted by the Ducks in the 1st rd (29th OV) in 2010
11: J.T. Miller - Plymouth Whalers (OHL) - Drafted by the Rangers in the 1st rd (15th OV) in 2011
20: Kyle Rau - U of Minnesota (WCHA) - Drafted by the Panthers in the 3rd rd (91st OV) in 2011
22: Brandon Saad - Saginaw Spirit (OHL) - Drafted by Chicago in the 2nd rd (43rd OV) in 2011
19: T.J. Tynan - U of Notre Dame (CCHA) - Drafted by Columbus in the 3rd rd (66th OV) in 2011
26: Austin Watson - Peterborough Petes (OHL) - Drafted by Nashville in the 1st rd (18th OV) in 2010
16: Jason Zucker - U of Denver (WCHA) - Drafted by the Wild in the 2nd rd (59th OV) in 2010

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Team Canada Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
29: Mark Visentin - Niagara IceDogs (OHL) - Drafted by Phoenix in the 1st rd (27th OV) in 2010
30: Scott Wedgewood - Plymouth Whalers (OHL) - Drafted by the NJD in the 3rd rd (84th OV) in 2010

Defensemen:
28: Nathan Beaulieu - SJ Sea Dogs (QMJHL) - Drafted by Montreal in the 1st rd (17th OV) in 2011
3: Brandon Gormley - Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) - Drafted by Phoenix in the 1st rd (13th OV) in 2010
4: Dougie Hamilton - Niagara IceDogs (OHL) - Drafted by Boston in the 1st rd (9th OV) in 2011
6: Scott Harrington - London Knights (OHL) - Drafted by Pittsburgh in the 2nd rd (54th OV) in 2011
27: Ryan Murray - Everett Silvertips (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
2: Jamie Oleksiak - Saginaw Spirit (OHL) - Drafted by Dallas in the 1st rd (14th OV) in 2011
5: Mark Pysyk - Edmonton Oil Kings (OHL) - Drafted by Buffalo in the 1st rd (23rd OV) in 2010

Forwards:
10: Michaël Bournival - Shawinigan (QMJHL) - Drafted by COL 71st OV in 10' & traded to Montreal
14: Brett Connolly - Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) - Drafted by Tampa in the 1st rd (6th OV) in 2010
12: Brendan Gallagher - Vancouver Giants (WHL) - Drafted by MTL in the 5th rd (147th OV) in 2010
13: Freddie Hamilton - Niagara IceDogs (OHL) - Drafted by San Jose in the 5th rd (129th OV) in 2010
21: Quinton Howden - Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL) - Drafted by Florida in the 1st rd (25th OV) in 2010
11: Jonathan Huberdeau - SJ Sea Dogs (QMJHL) - Drafted by Florida in the 1st rd (3rd OV) in 2011
20: Boone Jenner - Oshawa Generals (OHL) - Drafted by Columbus in the 2nd rd (37th OV) in 2011
15: Tanner Pearson - Barrie Colts (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
19: Mark Scheifele - Barrie Colts (OHL) - Drafted by the Jets in the 1st rd (7th OV) in 2011
8: Jaden Schwartz - Colorado College (WCHA) - Drafted by St. Louis in the 1st rd (14th OV) in 2010
22: Devante Smith-Pelly - Anaheim Ducks (NHL) - Drafted by Anaheim in the 2nd rd (42nd OV) in 2010
16: Mark Stone - Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) - Drafted by Ottawa in the 6th rd (178th OV) in 2010
18: Ryan Strome - Niagara IceDogs (OHL) - Drafted by the Islanders in the 1st rd (5th OV) in 2011

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Team Czech Republic Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
1: Libor Kasik - HC Olomouc (Czech 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
30: Tomas Kral - Kärpät Oulu U20 (Jr. A SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
2: Petr Mrazek - Ottawa 67's (OHL) - Drafted by Detroit in the 5th rd (141st OV) in 2010

Defensemen:
13: Marek Hrbas - Kamloops Blazers (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
28: Bohumil Jank - Lev Poprad (KHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Daniel Krejci - HC Slavia Praha U20 (Czech U20) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
8: Vojtech Mozik - BK Mlada Boleslav (Czech) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
6: David Musil - Vancouver Giants (WHL) - Drafted by the Oilers in the 2nd rd (31st OV) in 2011
4: Jiri Riha - HC Benatky (Czech 2) -  NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
7: Petr Zamorsky - HC Zlin (Czech) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards:
14: Jakub Culek - Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL) - Drafted by Ottawa in the 3rd rd (76th OV) in 2010
16: Radek Faksa - Kitchener Rangers (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
22: Tomas Filippi - Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
19: Tomas Hertl - HC Slavia Praha (Czech) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
17: Petr Holik - HC Zlin (Czech) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
27: Tomas Hyka - Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
20: Dmitrij Jaskin - HC Slavia Praha (Czech) - Drafted by St. Louis in the 2nd rd (41st OV) in 2011
18: Tomas Nosek - HC Pardubice (Czech) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
15: Daniel Pribyl - HC Sparta Praha (Czech) - Drafted by Montreal in the 6th rd (168th OV) in 2011
29: Lukas Sedlak - Saguenéens (QMJHL) - Drafted by Columbus in the 6th rd (158th OV) in 2011
26: Jiri Sekac - Lev Poprad (KHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
21: Petr Straka - Rimouski Océanic (QMJHL) - Drafted by Columbus in the 2nd rd (55th OV) in 2010
11: Michal Svihalek - HC Ceske Budejovice U20 (Czech U20) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
23: Dominik Uher - Spokane Chiefs (WHL) - Drafted by Pittsburgh in the 5th rd (144th OV) in 2011

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Team Denmark Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
30: Sebastian Feuk - Timrå J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
1: Dennis Jensen - Esbjerg (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
31: Christian Larsen - Malmö J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen: 
3: Jannick Christensen - Esbjerg (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
5: Tobias Hansen - Rødovre (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
9: Emil L. Kristensen - Esbjerg (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
4: Patrick Madsen - Herning (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
21: Mark Müller Larsen - Frederikshavn (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
6: Martin Rahbek - Herlev (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
27: Anders Thode - Frederikshavn (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards:
13: Mathias Bau Hansen - Rødovre (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
25: Rasmus Bjerrum - Frederikshavn (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
11: Patrick Bjorkstrand - Herning (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Oliver Bjorkstrand - Herning (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2013
19: Mads Eller - Frölunda J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2013
17: Nicklas Jensen - Oshawa Generals (OHL) - Drafted by Vancouver in the 1st rd (29th OV) in 2011
26: Nicki Kisum - CPH Hockey/Hvidovre (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
22: Joachim Linnet - Herning (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
15: Nicolai Meyer  - Malmö J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
14: Jonas Sass - Herlev (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
28: Anders Schultz - Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (USHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
8: Thomas Spelling - Herning (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
18: Thomas Søndergaard  - Frederikshavn (Denmark) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

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Team Finland Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
30: Sami Aittokallio - Ilves (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Colorado in the 4th rd (107th OV) in 2010
31: Christopher Gibson - Sauguenees (QMJHL) - Drafted by the Kings in the 2nd rd (49th OV) in 2011
1: Richard Ullberg - SaiPa (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen:
7: Jani Hakanpää - Blues (SM-liiga) - Drafted by the Blues in the 4th rd (104th OV) in 2010
8: Miro Hovinen - Jokerit U20 (Jr. A SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
4: Konsta Mäkinen - Ilves (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
2: Olli Määttä - London Knights (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Ville Pokka - Kärpät (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
3: Simo-Pekka Riikola - KalPa (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
5: Rasmus Ristolainen - TPS (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2013

Forwards:
15: Miro Aaltonen - Blues (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
10: Joel Armia - Ässät (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Buffalo in the 1st rd (16th OV) in 2011
16: Aleksander Barkov - Tappara (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2013
27: Joonas Donskoi - Kärpät (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Florida in the 4th rd (99th OV) in 2010
20: Mikael Granlund - HIFK (SM-liiga) - Drafted by the Wild in the 1st rd (9th OV) in 2010
11: Markus Granlund - HIFK (SM-liiga) - Drafted by the Flames in the 2nd rd (45th OV) in 2011
14: Roope Hämäläinen - Jukurit  (SM-liiga-2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
13: Markus Hännikäinen  - Jokerit (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
28: Mikael Kuronen - Ilves (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
29: Otto Paajanen - HPK (SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
6: Teemu Pulkkinen - Jokerit (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Detroit in the 4th rd (111th OV) in 2010
9: Alexander Ruuttu - Jokerit (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Phoenix in the 2nd rd (51st OV) in 2011
22: Miikka Salomäki - Kärpät (SM-liiga) - Drafted by Nashville in the 2nd rd (52nd OV) in 2011

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Team Latvia Roster

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
1: Rihards Cimermanis - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
25: Kristers Gudlevskis - HK Juniors Riga (MHL B) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
30: Elvis Merzlikins - Lugano U20 (Elite Jr. A) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen:
10: Kristers Freibergs - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
26: Krists Kalnins - AIK Härnösand (Div. 1) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
3: Nikita Kolesnikovs - Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
18: Kriss Lipsbergs - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
2: Kristaps Nimanis - Red Ducks (Finland 3) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
6: Arturs Salija - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
4: Edgars Siksna - Metalurgs Liepaja (Belarus) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
7: Pauls Zvirbulis - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards: 
23: Toms Andersons - Bern U20 (Elite Jr. A) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
21: Teodors Blugers - Shattuck St. Mary's Midget AAA (USHS) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
16: Maris Dilevka - Metalurgs Liepaja (Belarus) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
22: Zemgus Girgensons - Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
14: Vitalijs Hvorostinins - Sport U20 (Jr. A SM-liiga) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
31: Nikita Jevpalovs - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
19: Edgars Klavins - AIK J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Arturs Kuzmenkovs - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
11: Roberts Lipsbergs - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
9: Kristians Pelss - Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL) - Drafted by the Oilers in the 7th rd (181st OV) in 2010
17: Davis Straupe - HK Riga (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
15: Juris Ziemins - HK Juniors Riga (MHL B) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

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Team Russia Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
1: Sergei Kostenko - Kuznetskie Medvedi (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
20: Andrei Makarov - Saskatoon Blades (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
80: Andrei Vasilevski - Tolpar Ufa (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen:
4: Viktor Antipin - Stalnie Lisi Magnitogorsk (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
24: Zakhar Arzamastsev - Metallurg Novokuznetsk (KHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
26: Ildar Isangulov - Tolpar Ufa (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
6: Mikhail Naumenkov - CSKA-Krasnaja Armija Moskva (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
29: Nikita Nesterov - Medvedi Chelyabinsk (MHL) - Drafted by Tampa in the 5th rd (148th OV) in 2011
87: Igor Ozhiganov - CSKA-Krasnaja Armija Moskva (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
3: Artyom Sergeyev - Val-d'Or Foreurs (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Grigori Zheldakov - MHC Spartak (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards:
14: Daniil Apalkov - Stalnie Lisi Magnitogorsk (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
91: Sergei Barbashev - CSKA Moskva (KHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
17: Mikhail Grigorenko - Québec Remparts (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
8: Nikita Gusev - CSKA-Krasnaja Armija Moskva (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
19: Alexander Khokhlachev - Windsor (OHL) - Drafted by Boston in the 2nd rd (40th OV) in 2011
18: Yaroslav Kosov - Magnitogorsk (KHL) - Drafted by Florida in the 5th rd (124th OV) in 2011
9: Nikita Kucherov - CSKA (MHL) - Drafted by Tampa in the 2nd rd (58th OV) in 2011
15: Pavel Kulikov - Reaktor Nizhnekamsk (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
25: Evgeni Kuznetsov - Traktor Chelyabinsk (KHL) - Drafted by WSH in the 1st rd (26th OV) in 2010
23: Ivan Telegin - Barrie Colts (OHL) - Drafted by Atlanta in the 4th rd (101st OV) in 2010
10: Nail Yakupov - Sarnia Sting (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
16: Ignat Zemchenko - Severstal Cherepovets (KHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

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Team Slovakia Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
30: Dominik Riecicky - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
2: Richard Sabol - HC Banska Bystrica U20 (Slovakia U20) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
1: Juraj Simboch - HK Nitra (Slovakia) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Defensemen:
11: Michal Cajkovsky - Ottawa 67's (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
14: Peter Ceresnak - Peterborough Petes (OHL) - Drafted by NYR in the 6th rd (172nd OV) in 2011
25: Martin Gernat - Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL) - Drafted by EDM in the 5th rd (122nd OV) in 2011
3: Adam Janosik - Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL) - Drafted by Tampa in the 3rd rd (72nd OV) in 2010
7: Mario Kurali - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
21: Martin Marincin - PG Cougars (WHL) - Drafted by EDM in the 2nd rd (46th OV) in 2010
6: Peter Trska - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

Forwards:
16: Matej Bene - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
22: Milos Bubela - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
26: Matus Chovan - HC Kosice (Slovakia) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
23: Lukas Cingel - Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
20: Martin Daloga - HKM Zvolen U20 (Slovakia U20) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
29: Marko Dano - HK Dukla Trencin (Slovaia) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2013
19: Vladimir Dolnik - Everett Silvertips (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
10: Matej Hindos - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
13: Tomas Jurco - SJ Sea Dogs (QMJHL) - Drafted by Detroit in the 2nd rd (35th OV) in 2011
27: Tomas Matousek - Team Slovakia U20 (Slovakia 2) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
12: Richard Mraz - Tatranski Vlci (MHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
8: Michal Toman - Traverse City North Stars (NAHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
17: Marek Tvrdon - Vancouver Giants (WHL) - Drafted by Detroit in the 4th rd (115th OV) in 2011

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Team Sweden Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:
1: Anton Forsberg - MODO (SEL) - Drafted by Columbus in the 7th rd (188th OV) in 2011
30: Johan Gustafsson - Luleå (SEL) - Drafted by the Wild in the 6th rd (159th OV) in 2010
1: Johan Mattsson - Sudbury Wolves (OHL) - Drafted by Chicago in the 7th rd (211th OV) in 2011

Defensemen:
25: Jonas Brodin - Färjestad (SEL) - Drafted by the Wild in the 1st rd (10th OV) in 2011
5: Mattias Bäckman - Linköping (SEL) - Drafted by Detroit in the 5th rd (146th OV) in 2011
7: Fredrik Claesson - Djurgården (SEL) - Drafted by Ottawa in the 5th rd (126th OV) in 2011
8: Petter Granberg - Skellefteå (SEL) - Drafted by Toronto in the 4th rd (116th OV) in 2010
6: Oscar Klefbom - Färjestad (SEL) - Drafted by the Oilers in the 1st rd (19th OV) in 2011
9: John Klingberg - Jokerit (SEL) - Drafted by Dallas in the 5th rd (131st OV) in 2010
12: Patrik Nemeth - AIK (SEL) - Drafted by Dallas in the 2nd rd (41st OV) in 2010

Forwards:
15: Sebastian Collberg - Frölunda (SEL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
16: Filip Forsberg - Leksand (Allsvenskan) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012
14: Max Friberg - Timrå (SEL) - Drafted by the Ducks in the 5th rd (143rd OV) in 2011
17: William Karlsson - Västerås (Allsvenskan) - Drafted by ANA in the 2nd rd (53rd OV) in 2011  
10: Johan Larsson - Brynäs (SEL) - Drafted by the Wild in the 2nd rd (56th OV) in 2010
19: Joakim Nordström - AIK (SEL) - Drafted by Chicago in the 3rd rd (90th OV) in 2010  
24: Rickard Rakell - Plymouth Whalers (OHL) - Drafted by the Ducks in the 1st rd (30th OV) in 2011  
18: Victor Rask - Calgary Hitmen (WHL) - Drafted by Carolina in the 2nd rd (42nd OV) in 2011
23: Ludvig Rensfeldt - Sarnia Sting (OHL) - Drafted by Chicago in the 2nd rd (35th OV) in 2010  
13: Johan Sundström - Frölunda (SEL) - Drafted by the Islanders in the 2nd rd (50th OV) in 2011
28: Erik Thorell - Färjestad (SEL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  
20: Mika Zibanejad - Djurgården (SEL) - Drafted by Ottawa in the 1st rd (6th OV) in 2011
11: Jeremy Boyce - Timrå (SEL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012

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Team Switzerland Roster:

Jersey #   :   PLAYER NAME   -   2011-12 Team   -   NHL Status

Goalies:

30: Luca Boltshauser - Färjestad J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

20: Lukas Meili - GC Küsnacht Lions (NLB) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012    

1: Tim Wolf - GC Küsnacht Lions (NLB) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012   

Defensemen:  

4: Phil Baltisberger - GC Küsnacht Lions (NLB) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2014

2: Cédric Hächler - Malmö J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

14: Dean Kukan - Luleå J20 (SuperElite) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

8: Christian Marti - Kloten (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

7: Dave Sutter - Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012   

17: Dario Trutmann - Plymouth Whalers (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012   

5: Mike Vermeille - Genève-Servette U20 (Elite Jr. A) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012   

Forwards:  

19: Reto Amstutz - Bern U20 (Elite Jr. A) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

22: Sven Andrighetto - Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012    

10: Alessio Bertaggia - Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012   

28: Christoph Bertschy - Bern (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012    

15: Sven Bärtschi - Portland Winterhawks (WHL) - Drafted by Calgary in the 1st rd (13th OV) in 2011 

11: Gaëtan Haas - Biel (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

13: Gregory Hofmann - Ambrì-Piotta (NLA) - Drafted by Carolina in the 4th rd (103rd OV) in 2011

12: Lino Martschini - Peterborough Petes (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012 

29: Tanner Richard - Guelph Storm (OHL) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

23: Cédric Schneuwly - Zug (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012 

25: Dario Simion - Lugano (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012  

26: Joël Vermin - Bern (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012 

24: Samuel Walser - Kloten (NLA) - NHL Draft Eligible In 2012 

Jackets, Habs Talking Trade?

Canadiens, Blue Jackets Talking Multi-Player Trade?

Both the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Montreal Canadiens have been a massive disappoint thus far this season, and for the past few months they have been the subject of many trade rumors. It appears the newest info going around is that the two struggling clubs will link up to complete a multi-player deal. It can not happen until the Roster Freeze is lifted on December 28th, but following that day I would expect more news on the swap to be revealed if it does in fact happen. Judging by the state of both of these hockey clubs, I would not be surprised to see some big name players involved. According to reports the Montreal Canadiens have a handful of players that want out, including Michael Cammalleri and Josh Gorges. Along with them, I have heard that PK Subban being healthy scratched last night may have upset some members of the club, including Subban himself. Despite the talent these players possess I would not be surprised to see one or more shipped to Columbus.

Isles Lose Two Key Players In Win

Islanders Lose Two Important Players To Injury In Win

The New York Islanders may have won the hockey game last night, but they also lost some very important members of their team. At 18:40 of the second period, Evander Kane was driving to the net hard as he was coming in from the side and his momentum (and a little shove from Milan Jurcina) carried him hard, right into Al Montoya. Montoya was visibly dazed and he left the game with a concussion. He has been, without a doubt, the Isles best goalie and losing him for any amount of time is a big loss. Along with Montoya the Isles lost another important player late in the game in David Ullstrom. Despite the team's struggles so far this season, one of the few bright spots has been the emergence of Ullstrom. Since his call-up, he has been an important energy player for the Islanders and is currently one of only two Islander players that have played more than ten games and have a positive plus/minus. With about three minutes and twenty-eight seconds gone by in overtime, Ullstrom tried to lay a hit on Andrew Ladd and ended up falling awkwardly into the boards because of a unintentional elbow from Ladd. He left the game with a concussion and will be out indefinitely.

Coyotes & Senators Swap High Potential Players

Trade Details:

The Phoenix Coyotes trade Kyle Turris to the Ottawa Senators for David Rundblad and a 2nd Round Pick in 2012.

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Phoenix Coyotes Acquire:

D. David Rundblad Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $1,500,000 Expires: 2013 (RFA) Important Facts: -Since being drafted in 2009 by the Blues he has been traded twice. -During the 2010-11 Swedish Elite League Season he:           -Selected for the All Star team.           -Awarded the defenseman of the year trophy.           -Led the league is assists.            -Most points by a defenseman. -Has the worst +/- of any Ottawa Senator this season with a minus-11.

Second Round Draft Pick (2012) Important Facts: -Senators own pick.

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Ottawa Senators Acquire:

C. Kyle Turris Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 188 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $1,400,000 Expires: 2013 (RFA) Important Facts: -Was the 3rd overall selection in the 2007 NHL Draft. -Has only 46 points in 137 NHL games. -Held out for months to get an overpriced contract. -In 6 games this year, he has no points and a minus-2 rating.

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Analysis:

Although its been pretty well known that the Senators have been looking to acquire Kyle Turris, most people expected the return to include much less coming back to the Coyotes. I mean there is no doubt that Turris has good upside, but with his outrageous contract demands this summer followed by an extended contract hold-out, you have got to question his character and possibly his contract negotiations in the future. That, along with the fact that he's been very disappointing in his NHL career thus far with only 46 points in 137 NHL games, made most people believe he wouldn't command such a massive return. Apparently that thought was way off base as that is exactly what happened this morning. 

The Senators payed a HUGE price for Turris sending David Rundblad and a 2nd round draft pick in 2012 to Phoenix in exchange. Rundblad is a very highly touted prospect that has the potential to be a top-pairing guy in the future. Last season in the Swedish Elite League he was the most dominant defenseman by-far, putting up fifty points in fifty-five games.  He was so good that he took home the Salming Trophy, which is the award given to the defenseman of the year in the Swedish Elite League. This year the Senators threw him into the NHL right off the bat and he has not acclimated as quickly as some would have liked, but don't let that cloud your opinion of him. If he is brought along right and is shown patience, things will work out very well for the Yotes. Personally I believe that if the Coyotes gave him the rest of the year at the AHL level it would help him reach his full potential in the long-run. Regardless of what they decide to do with him now, he will be a major piece of an already stacked future blue-line in Phoenix. If you couldn't tell already, Rundblad is one of my favorite young prospects in the league and I have watched him enough to know that he has what it takes to be an impact player at the National Hockey League level. 

Now if I saw this trade and it was Rundblad for Turris straight up, I'd say that it was a solid trade for the Coyotes, but the fact that the Senators also threw in their 2nd round pick in this upcoming draft makes it a home-run. The Senators will finish close to the bottom of the league so their 2nd round pick will be very high, and in a good draft, its surprising to see them include it. 

Overall, I love this trade for the Coyotes and I think ten years down the line we will be able to look back and say it was clearly a steal.

Islanders Update; Demotes, New Injuries, & Returns From Injury

Islanders Update; de Haan & Poulin Demoted, New Injuries, & Potential Returns From Injury

As quickly as they arrived, they have left. Today the Islanders demoted Kevin Poulin & Calvin de Haan back to the Sound Tigers. The move clearly indicates that either Andrew MacDonald or Mark Eaton will be ready to play tomorrow for the Islanders and that Evgeni Nabokov is ready to return from his groin injury. Now that, that issue is out of the way of coarse there has got to be another thing to worry about. The new issue is the concussion to Brian Rolston, which will keep him out indefinitely. Now although I hate to see anyone get hurt, I am not upset that Rolston will not be in the line-up, but the problem this creates is the hole on the the 3rd line. According to reports though, the Islanders will not be making any call-ups to fill the role and it will instead be filled by Nino Niederreiter who apparently will be returning from his concussion. I'm a little concerned about the decision to put Nino back in the line-up so quickly, as I feel like we might be rushing him a bit just to fill Rolston's empty spot. Hopefully I am wrong, but Niederreiter's health, especially with the concussion epidemic, is something that Islanders fans should keep a close eye on.