Nino Niederreiter's Struggles

Are The Islanders Ruining Nino Niederreiter's Development?

The New York Islanders drafted Nino Niederreiter with the fifth-overall pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. The following training camp Niederreiter made the Islanders and was given his nine game try-out, but then was returned to Portland of the WHL. Following his second NHL training camp he was told by Islanders General Manager Garth Snow, that he'd be with the club for the entire 2011-12 season. Originally he was expected to flank John Tavares on the first-line, but when he went down with an injury that plan was disrupted. Once he returned from his injury the Isles held him out of the line-up for a few weeks before eventually putting him on the fourth-line where he's been since. 

Many Islanders fans have become concerned that the Isles might be ruining the nineteen year-old forward's development. The concern is for good reason considering the lack of success Nino's had this season. 

Playing on the fourth-line, Niederreiter hasn't contributed much at all this season with only one goal and no assists in thirty-nine games. That point total is the lowest of any every-day Islanders player and that includes Mike Mottau, Jay Pandolfo, etc.. With his offensive production almost nonexistent, you'd hope to see some solid two-way play, but unfortunately he's struggled in his own end as well with a plus/minus of minus-19. To put that in perspective, it's the forth-worst plus/minus of any forward in the National Hockey League. One of the most telling statistics out there in my opinion is average Time On Ice because ice-time does a great job displaying how much a player's coach trusts and depends on him. With that said, Niederreiter's ice-time does the opposite because his 9:22 is the lowest of all Isles forwards. That, along with his recent healthy scratch, certainly give off the feeling that Isles coach Jack Capuano doesn't trust him very much at all.

With all of the disappointing aspects of Nino's season pointed out, I'm going to give my explanation as to why this is NOT ruining Nino Niederreiter. 

At 6'2, 205 pounds, he has the body of an NHL'er now and as a player tabbed as a future power-forward, he needed to learn how to use his body in an effective way. Because he's not eligible for the AHL this season, the Islanders wanted to let him learn gradually at the pro-level. He has improved his physical play and in the past two months he's shot up to the number two spot on the top forward hitters on the Isles. I'll give him a small benefit of the doubt in regards to his offensive output due to the two offensive black-holes he plays with (Reasoner & Pandolfo). 

The next step is very important for his development and I personally believe that next year when he's eligible, he should be sent down to the American Hockey League to work on his other skills that weren't refurbished in his time with the Islanders.

Rangers Acquire John Scott

New York Rangers Acquire: John Scott Chicago Blackhawks Acquire: Fifth-Round Draft Pick In 2012

Review:

Heading up to the NHL Trade Deadline, the New York Rangers were rumored to be very active buyers. Despite having many significant discussions with other clubs around the National Hockey League, Rangers GM Glen Sather decided to ultimately keep the team intact and make just one minor deal to bring in a depth defenseman. That depth defenseman was found in the form of a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks who moved John Scott to the Rangers for a 5th-Round Draft Choice in 2012. 

Scott is one of the toughest players in the National Hockey League, and at 6’8, 270 pounds, he’s one of the most intimidating as well. He will never be mistaken for an offensive juggernaut or a defensive stalwart, but with minimal ice-time he can get along just fine. What he does bring to the table is a presence that is felt by everyone. Whether he’s on the ice or on the bench, he will prevent opponents from taking liberties with Ranger players because they'll know that Scott will be right there to make them pay. When the gloves do eventually come off, Scott is one of the best fighters in the league. According to hockeyfights.com, Scott has won all 25 fights he’s taken part in during his NHL career. It should come as no surprise that he’s been considered the ‘heavyweight champion’ of the National Hockey League for the past year or so. For the New York Rangers, who already lead the NHL in total team fights, the ‘rich have gotten richer’ in terms of team toughness. I expect Scott to take a role as a seventh defenseman for the club, and will be placed into the line-up in games where physicality will be a key element. 

The Chicago Blackhawks had made a move earlier in the day that saw them acquire Johnny Oduya, which made Scott the odd-man-out. With players like Bryan Bickell, Andrew Shaw, and Jamal Mayers stepping up with improved physicality, the Blackhawks felt that Scott had become expendable for that purpose as well. Blackhawk fans had speculated that he’d be placed on waivers, but were pleasantly surprised that they were able to get something in-return for the twenty-nine year old defenseman.

This was a solid deal for both sides as the Rangers were able to add to their defensive depth and team toughness, and the Blackhawks were able to dump an unneeded player for a draft pick.

Leafs, Ducks Complete Another Small Trade

Toronto Maple Leafs Acquire: Mark Fraser Anaheim Ducks Acquire: Dale Mitchell

Review:

As we see frequently, the Anaheim Ducks and the Toronto Maple Leafs have gotten together to complete a minor deal. This time around the Toronto Maple Leafs acquired a twenty-five year old defenseman in Mark Fraser. In-exchange the Leafs sent a twenty-two year old forward named Dale Mitchell to the Anaheim Ducks. 

Fraser has bounced around a bit this season, but has played in 98 NHL games in his career so he is some what experienced. He will add a big body to the Toronto Marlies' (Leafs AHL Affiliate) blue-line which should help them make a push for the Calder Cup. The player headed the other way, Dale Mitchell, was drafted in the third-round of the 2007 NHL entry draft. He has spent the majority of this season in the ECHL with the Reading Royals where he’s put up 31 points in 35 games. The Ducks made this trade because they wanted to clear a spot on the defense corps of their American Hockey League Affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch.

Canucks, Ducks Complete Minor Trade

Vancouver Canucks Acquire: Andrew Gordon Anaheim Ducks Acquire: Sebastian Erixon

Review:

With this trade we saw the Canucks follow up their blockbuster trade with the Sabres, with a minor swap that sent Sebastian Erixon to the Ducks for Andrew Gordon. 

In Sebastion Erixon, the Anaheim Ducks get a twenty-two year old defenseman that has put up eight points in thirty games with the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League. He is seen as more of a depth defenseman, and at 5’10 his size will be a big issue that could prevent him from becoming a full-time NHL player. Headed to the Vancouver Canucks is twenty-six year old forward Andrew Gordon. Gordon has struggled to translate his success at the American Hockey League level to anything of value in the NHL. At 6’4 he has the size to be a factor, but in 37 games with the Anaheim Ducks this season he was held to only five points. He will take a role as a depth forward for the Canucks down the stretch and if needed, he could fill in on the fourth line at the NHL level. 

This deal is more about adjusting the depth for both clubs. The Canucks felt that they lacked forward depth, while the Ducks felt that they were lacking in defensive depth so this enabled both sides to fix their weaknesses.

Sharks, Avalanche Complete Five Player Trade

Colorado Avalanche Acquire:  Jamie McGinn Mike Connolly Michael Sgarbossa San Jose Sharks Acquire:  Daniel Winnik T.J. Galiardi Seventh-Round Draft Pick in 2012

Review:

This was one of the bigger trades in terms of the quantity of assets that were traded. A few of these players were expected to be moved, but many of these guys were thought to be unavailable. The San Jose Sharks have been struggling as of late and coming into deadline day were expected to make some trades to shake their club up. In this trade the Sharks did just that, landing some hard working players. 

In this package they get a twenty-six year old winger in Daniel Winnik who plays a very solid, effective bottom-six game. He's polished at all three forward positions, and plays a very good defensive style. He won't put up a ton of points, but he's not an offensive black whole either. He can get along offensively playing on a third-line mainly because he compensates for his slightly below average third-line production with his great defensive capabilities. He is a pending unrestricted free agent though, so he could very well be just a short-term rental. With that said his services were very high in-demand and Bob McKenzie tweeted earlier in the week that Winnik was going to be one of the more sought after depth players out there. Along with Winnik, the Sharks added another roster player in T.J. Galiardi as well. Galiardi is a twenty-three year old forward that can also play all three positions up front. He's an energetic player that has found his niche as a penalty killing, agitating bottom-six player that can put up some points. He's set to become a restricted free agent at season's end, but the Sharks should have no problem re-signing him. He fits into the Sharks current and future line-up very nicely. The Sharks also received a seventh-round draft pick in 2012. 

On the other side of the deal the Colorado Avalanche were able to land a nice package of players. In Jamie McGinn they get a big two-way forward that will be a solid replacement for Galiardi. He has some upside, but I don't think he'll be anything more than a third-line winger. Along with McGinn the Avalanche brought in two prospects. One is nineteen year old Michael Sgarbossa who is currently playing with the Sudbury Wolves of the OHL. In 57 games this year he has 84 points and has been impressive with the Wolves. He's a bit undersized, but if he can transfer even a little of his offensive play to the NHL he'll be a heck of a player. The other prospect is Mike Connolly who at twenty-two years old is playing his first season in the American Hockey League after signing as a free agent with the Sharks last April. So far this season with Worcester he's put up thirty points in forty games. He's a bit undersized at 5'9, but thus far he's been able to handle the pro game. I think this will help both clubs, but in the immediate future its more beneficial for the Sharks give-in their situation.

Senators, Lightning Swap Defensemen

Tampa Bay Lightning Acquire: Brian Lee Ottawa Senators Acquire: Matt Gilroy

Review:

The Tampa Bay Lightning acquire a twenty-four year old, 6'3 defenseman in Brian Lee. Lee was drafted by the Senators with the ninth overall selection in the 2005 draft. Since then he's been a bit of a disappointment and has been placed on waivers once before. This season though, he has looked a little more comfortable at the NHL level. He's a restricted free agent so he will be another new depth defenseman in the Lightning's restructured defense corps. Matt Gilroy, the Bellmore native, has had a decent season as well, but as a pending unrestricted free agent the Lightning decided to begin to look towards next season. As a team that looks to be headed to the playoffs, Gilroy will provide a nice veteran presence on the Senators blue-line and will take some of the offensive load off of Erik Karlsson.

Isles Find A Way To Dump Rolston & Mottau

Trade Details:

New York Islanders Trade Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau To The Boston Bruins In-Exchange For Yannick Riendeau and Marc Cantin

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New York Islanders Acquire:

RW. Yannick Riendeau Age: 23 Height: 5-11 Weight: 180 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $613,333 Expires: 2012 (RFA) Important Facts: -Two-Way Contract Clause (AHL Salary: $50,000) -In 2008-09 was the leading scorer of all Canadian Major Junior Hockey -In 2008-09 was named to the QMJHL First All-Star Team

D. Marc Cantin Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 200 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $750,000 Expires: 2014 (RFA) Important Facts: -Two-Way Contract Clause (AHL Salary: $67,500) -Was signed last season by the Bruins as a free agent out of the OHL -In 2010-11 (last season), was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team

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Boston Bruins Acquire:

D. Mike Mottau Age: 33 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $800,000 Expires: 2012 (UFA) Important Facts: -Has missed 86 games due to injury over the past two seasons -Had the lowest average time on ice per game of any Isles defenseman

LW. Brian Rolston Age: 39 Height: 6-2 Weight: 215 CONTRACT:  Cap-Hit: $5,062,500 Expires: 2012 (UFA) Important Facts: -Has a No-Trade Clause in his contract -Nine points in 49 games played this season

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Analysis:

The Islanders completed one trade today and it saw them dump veterans Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau on the Boston Bruins. In return for the two roster players, the Boston Bruins traded Marc Cantin and Yannick Riendeau to the NY Islanders.

The New York Islanders have been dealing with poor play by many of their veteran players for most of this season and in the past week or so, they've made it their goal to clear out those under-performers. Of that group, Mike Mottau and Brian Rolston were two of the worst offenders. On Saturday the Isles placed Rolston on waivers and took Mottau off of the IR. Once Rolston cleared waivers this afternoon many fans were concerned that both Rolston and Mottau were going to remain in the Isles line-up. Once this trade was announced it was like a breath of fresh air knowing that these two under-performers will be replaced in the Isles line-up by some hungry young players. From this trade the Islanders save $1,299,256 in remaining salary owed to both players so it saves some money to use down the line. It really is a case of 'addition by subtraction', but I personally believe they did make two nice subtle additions that could, down the line, pay off. Last season Marc Cantin was very good in the Ontario Hockey League with the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors and was named to the OHL's Second All-Star Team. I think its worth noting that Casey Cizikas played on that team with Cantin so I wouldn't be surprised if Cizikas might have given Snow some of his thoughts on his former teammate. Cantin has struggled a bit this season in both the ECHL and AHL, but I don't think its fair to judge him based on his first year of pro-hockey. The Islanders will have him under contract for two more years after this so if by that time he's still having the same problem then it would be fair to judge because he would have had more than enough time to adjust to the pro style of play. Next season will tell a lot about his potential as an NHL player. The other prospect that was included is a twenty-three year old named Yannick Riendeau. Despite being a prolific scorer in juniors (where he led all Canadian Junior Hockey players in scoring during the 08-09 season), he's had a hard time finding success at the American Hockey League level. He will be given the opportunity to win Isles management over down the stretch, but if he doesn't he will likely be let go at the end of the season. These two young players will be placed on the Isles AHL Affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, and will be expected to help them get to the Calder Cup.

I was very surprised that the Isles were able to trade these two guys without having to include anything to entice the Bruins to eat up over a million dollars in salary for players that will not make much of an impact down the stretch, but to see them get two prospects that DO have at least some possible potential is astonishing.

Shocker Sends Kassian To Vancouver; Hodgson To Buffalo

Vancouver Canucks Acquire: Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani Buffalo Sabres Acquire: Cody Hodgson and Alexander Sulzer

Review:

The common theme we've seen in many of today's trades is that the players involved seemed to be guys that weren't expected to move. Many of the supposed 'available' players stayed where they were, while young, thought to be untouchable, players got moved for each other. In this particular case we saw the Canucks acquire a big twenty-one year old winger in Zack Kassian. Kassian had already begun to develop into a fan favorite with the Sabres and I'm sure the same will happen in Vancouver. What makes him so likable is the impressive mixture of physicality and skill which is so rare to find. He can drop the gloves and win against any player, and his 26 points in 30 AHL games proves he can put up points as well. We saw during last year's Stanley Cup Final how much physicality meant in the full seven game series and apparently Canucks GM Mike Gillis saw as well because this definitely seems to be their answer to Boston's Milan Lucic. The Canucks also acquired defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani who has played well this season. At the time of the trade Gragnani led all Sabres players in plus/minus with a plus-10. His play has been very good considering that this year is his first full season at the NHL level. During the 2010-11 season he put up 60 points in 63 games in the American Hockey League so he has some very impressive offensive skills that will begin to be shown more once he gets more comfortable at the NHL level. Although I love the Canucks acquisition of both Gragnani and Kassian, they paid a large price in Cody Hodgson and Alexander Sulzer. 

The Sabres had been very high on Kassian, but apparently Cody Hodgson was enough to change their mind. At twenty-two years old Hodgson is playing his first season in the NHL. He's done very well for himself putting up 16 goals and 17 assists for 33 points which is good enough for the 2nd highest goal total of all rookies. His great creativity and hockey sense makes him a prospect with a great future. For many years Canucks fans have been big supporters of Hodgson, and at times were over supportive of him, which surely makes this move a little harder to stomach for the Canucks faithful. I could see him fitting in really well in Buffalo as a future first line center playing in between Pominville and Vanek. The Sabres also received Alexander Sulzer who is a depth defenseman. Sulzer joins Christian Ehrhoff and Jochen Hecht as German players on the Sabres. Maybe his comfort level will be raised and he will perform better, maybe not. Either way he is right now nothing more than a bottom-pairing defenseman. 

Lightning And Leafs Swap Prospects

Tampa Bay Lightning Acquire: Keith Aulie Toronto Maple Leafs Acquire: Carter Ashton

Review:

The Tampa Bay Lightning went into today's deadline with the goal of solidifying their defense and with this move they do a good job of that. Keith Aulie is a big 6'6 defenseman that has a good defensive skill-set. At only twenty-two years old his upside is really high. Thus far in his career he has been more of a defense-only guy, but I personally believe there might be some offensive talent that has not been realized yet. He could play NHL minutes now, and fit in well. He's a great fit with the Lightning, but the price they paid wasn't cheap. 

They sent Carter Ashton to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Ashton is a bit younger than Aulie at just twenty-years of age. He's a player that Leafs General Manager Brian Burke has liked for a long time because of his style of play. His skill-set is a mixture of size, hockey sense, skill, and speed, which is an extremely hard package to find in a player. This season is his first playing full-time in the American Hockey League and he's been very good for the Norfolk Admirals (Lightning AHL Affiliate) with 35 points in 56 games and a plus-8. He might not be NHL ready yet, but within a year I expect him to be an every day player with the Leafs. 

I've heard some people call this trade a steal for the Leafs, but I disagree with that assessment. Sure, they may come out on top a little bit, but both teams got a player that filled a long-term need while giving up one that either didn't fit in their plans or was expendable due to other players at their position. 

NHL Trade Deadline Weekend Live

I will be doing a Trade Deadline recap with write-ups on each trade, it might take more than one day to get them all done so be warned...


-The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired defenseman Keith Aulie from the Toronto Maple Leafs for winger Carter Ashton.

-The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired defenseman Brian Lee from the Ottawa Senators for defenseman Matt Gilroy.

-The San Jose Sharks acquired forwards Daniel Winnik and T.J. Galiardi and a seventh-round draft pick in 2012 from the Colorado Avalanche for winger Jamie McGinn and forwards Michael Sgarbossa and Mike Connolly.

-The Boston Bruins acquired winger Brian Rolston and defenseman Mike Mottau from the New York Islanders for defenseman Marc Cantin and winger Yannick Riendeau.

-The Buffalo Sabres acquired forward Cody Hodgson and defenseman Alexander Sulzer from the Vancouver Canucks for winger Zack Kassian and defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani.

YET TO BE COMPLETED:
-The Vancouver Canucks aquired winger Andrew Gordon from the Anaheim Ducks for defenseman Sebastian Erixon.


-The Toronto Maple Leafs acquired defenseman Mark Fraser from the Anaheim Ducks for winger Dale Mitchell. 


-The New York Rangers acquired defenseman/winger John Scott from the Chicago Blackhawks for a fifth-round draft pick in 2012.


-The Boston Bruins acquired defenseman Greg Zanon from the Minnesota Wild for defenseman Steven Kampfer.


-The Nashville Predators acquired center Paul Gaustad and a fourth-round draft pick in 2012 from the Buffalo Sabres for a first-round draft pick in 2012.


-The Chicago Blackhawks acquired defenseman Johnny Oduya from the Winnipeg Jets for a second-round draft pick in 2013 and a third-round draft pick in 2013. 


-The Vancouver Canucks acquired center Samuel Pahlsson from the Columbus Blue Jackets for defenseman Taylor Ellington, a fourth-round draft pick in 2012 and a fourth-round draft pick in 2013.
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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  2:00 PM:

PATTYB NOTE: I am off to my internship with the Islanders so from now until 4:30 I will not be posting updates. That is after the deadline so once I come back I will post my analysis up on every trade and roster move. For all rumors check out HFBoards.com, or Twitter. Sorry I can't continue, but I have to get going to the Coliseum.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:47 PM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: Toronto Maple Leafs Trades Keith Aulie To The Tampa Bay Lightning For Carter Ashton

- Thats a pretty significant trade. It sees a big talented twenty-two year old defenseman in Aulie join the Lightning. Aulie is a great addition for the Lightning who are hoping to add to their back-end. He looks to be a future top-4 defenseman and he fits very well into their future line-up. I think he could join their pro club today and do a good job on their bottom-pair. In return the Lightning moved Carter Ashton to the Leafs. Ashton is also a great addition for the Leafs who love his style of play. Ashton has all the makings of a future top-six power forward, and he will be ready for the NHL next season. This trade, similarly to the Schultz/Gilbert trade, is just a great 'hockey trade' as it solidifies the needs of both clubs. Very even for both sides and it will help them both in the future.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:36 PM:

TWITTER: Arthur Staple- "Sounds like PA Parenteau is staying put with #Isles. Offers not good enough to sway Garth Snow into a deal."

- As predicted the Isles will probably hold onto PA Parenteau, but as I said earlier a lot can happen between now and three o'clock.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:28 PM:

RUMOR: Greg Zanon is close to being moved, possibly headed to the Canucks.

- I think this would be a nice under-the-radar addition for the Canucks. Zanon is the type of guy who does the little things to help his team win games.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:20 PM:

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob- "Oduya has been DEALT! Trade call coming in now.. Spacek also has been DEALT! 2 deals just went down.."

- So according to Incarcerated Bob there are two pending trades.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:13 PM:

RUMOR: Bob McKenzie Saying That Bryan Allen Is No Longer Available

- He was highly coveted so it'll be very interesting to see how this affects the trade market in the next few hours.

RUMOR: Rangers Closing In On A Deal To Acquire Brad Stuart

- Some have said it is not true, but rumors have been floating around that the Rangers are close to acquiring Brad Stuart for draft picks.

QUOTE: Clutterbuck On Schultz Following Trade "He's what this organization is all about."

- Apparently Wild players are very unhappy that Schultz was traded and you never want to hear quotes like that if you are a Wild fan because I'm not sure if this locker room is going to be too happy going forward.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  1:04 PM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: Minnesota Wild Have Traded Nick Schultz To The Edmonton Oilers For Tom Gilbert.

- Interesting move. One-for-one swap that sees a defenseman swapped for a defenseman. Nick Schultz is twenty-nine year old and has played with the Wild for his entire career. He provides a good defensive game that is helped along by good mobility, but has little in the way of an offensive game. The player that Schultz was swapped for was Tom Gilbert who is the same age as Schultz, but plays a different style. He's got a nice set of wheels and a good offensive skill-set. His defensive zone play is not terrific, but he can get along at both ends. This trade is about filling both team's needs. Both players swapped have expertise in different areas so the Oilers get their need in a reliable defensive defenseman, while the Wild get a more offensive, puck-moving defenseman. I don't think there is any clear cut winner in this move, pretty fair for both sides. Just a good old 'hockey trade'.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  12:44 PM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: Tampa Bay Lightning Have Acquired Mike Commodore From The Detroit Red Wings For A Conditional Seventh-Round Pick.

- This is more of a minor trade. With that said the Red Wings could be moving out some money to a acquire someone else so we have to keep an eye on that. The Lightning do this to add a depth defenseman to run out the rest of the year with.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  12:38 PM:

RUMOR: PA Parenteau's Status Unknown As Of Now

- Islanders forward PA Parenteau has developed into one of the bigger trade deadline names so far today, but his status has been all over the place. Some people are saying that the Isles are not shopping him, some are saying he will hit UFA, and others are saying he's about to be traded. This will surely be a big story line heading up to the three o'clock deadline. My personal opinion is that the Isles will hold onto him, but a lot can happen in the next few hours.

RUMOR: According to Pierre LeBrun The Islanders Are Shopping Al Montoya

- I've been expecting Montoya to be traded for the past few months once Nabokov took a hold of the number one job. Its very likely that the Isles end up moving Montoya, but the return wouldn't be huge. I'd expect a third-rounder coming back to the Isles.

TWITTER: Bob McKenzie- "Evgeny Nabokov is considering a contract offer from NYI, but there's no sense of urgency to finish it up. Not being moved regardless."

- As expected Nabokov is here to stay for the Isles and I think its pretty much guaranteed that the Isles will be able to re-sign Nabokov if they are this close to a contract already.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  12:25 PM:

WAIVER CLAIM: Montreal Canadiens Claim Brad Staubitz On Re-Entry Waivers From The Minnesota Wild

- Staubitz is a big physical player that will give the Habs a warm body that can provide some toughness to their line-up and at a very small cost. Because he was on re-entry waivers the Wild will have to pay half of his $575,000 cap-hit so the Canadiens will only have to pay $287,500.

WAIVER CLAIM: Winnipeg Jets Claim Grant Clitsome On Waivers From The Columbus Blue Jackets

- I love this pick-up for the Jets, and I was really hoping to see the Islanders take a chance on him and apparently (because the Isles are ahead of the Jets in the waiver priority order) the Isles weren't interested. This is a nice addition to the Jets' defense and Clitsome will provide them with some solid offense from the back-end. This also means that we will probably see Johnny Oduya moved sometime today. Clitsome is signed for next year as well, so that can be perceived as good thing or a bad thing depending on how he performs for the rest of the season.

CLEARED WAIVERS: NY Islanders Forward Brian Rolston Clears Waivers

- I was really hoping that another team would take him off of our hands. I just hope that he is sent to Bridgeport and he isn't taking up a roster spot with the Islanders. Chris Botta also mentioned that because the Isles are stuck paying the rest of his contract off we might see them make some moves to clear out some salary.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  12:03 PM:

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob- " Bryan Allen has been told by team he has been traded.. Trade call going in as we speak"

- Another trade tweet from IncarceratedBob, he has broken one trade today so we'll see if this ends up hitting. Allen is a likely player to be moved so we'll see what happens in the next few minutes.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  11:57 AM:

RUMOR: Toronto's Still Confident That They Can Get Grabovski Re-Signed

- Its beginning to look like Toronto will end up holding onto Grabovski with the hope that they can get him extended soon.

RUMOR: Leafs Received Trade Offer For James Reimer, Burke Turned It Down

- Apparently the Leafs got a trade offer for Reimer a few days ago and Brian Burke didn't even consider it. He turned it down on the spot with no discussion which definitely gives off the feel that Burke still believes that Reimer is the Leafs' goalie of the future and today.

RUMOR: Jackets Took Down Rick Nash's Banner At Their Arena This Morning

- Of coarse could be absolutely nothing and just people reading into things too much, but I felt it was worth noting.

QUOTE: Brandon Dubinsky On Trade Deadline "I’m pretty confident that at 3:01 p.m. Eastern Standard Time that I’ll be a New York Ranger.'

- Very interesting that Dubinsky would say something like this to the media at such a time. Risky to say considering the uncertainty of the trade deadline and the amount of time left until the deadline. I don't think Rangers GM Glen Sather is too pleased about Dubinsky saying something like this now.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  11:38 AM:

RUMOR: Bruins Continue To Be Active; In Discussions For Ryan Malone

- The Bruins are looking to add some big pieces to try and help them to get their 2nd straight Stanley Cup, and I think Malone would be a fantastic fit, but the price would be big. He would most likely cost a roster play plus, and I'm not sure if the Bruins would be willing to move a piece of their current roster.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  11:23 AM:

RUMOR: Toronto Maple Leafs Continue To Shop For Goaltending

- The Goaltending market has continued to shrink with Vokoun's NMC preventing any move, and the Isles lack of interest in moving Nabokov. It appears as though the Leafs have set their sights on Josh Harding, but they are unsure about the price because of his lack of experience as a starting goaltender.

RUMOR: PA Parenteau is rumored to be seeking a four-year deal

- It appears as though Parenteau is looking for an extension around four-years at a pretty hefty price at or around $4 million per season.
UPDATE: Parenteau's agent denies that he's asking for a four-year extension.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  11:04 AM:

RUMOR: Toronto Maple Leafs are closing in on a trade; Possibly with the Jets

- I've heard its a minor deal, but with the Maple Leafs you never know considering Burke's love of big trades.

RUMOR: Bruins Interested In Jaroslav Spacek

- We saw the Bruins make a trade last season for a veteran defenseman and I could see them making a similar move today albeit for a much lower price.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  10:55 AM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: The Final Kostitsyn Trade; The Nashville Predators Trade Their 2nd-Round Draft Selection In 2013 And A Conditional Draft Pick To The Montreal Canadiens In-Exchange For Andrei Kostitsyn

- The Predators get some nice kick to their offense and they re-unite the Kostitsyn brothers. Sergei Kostitsyn has thrived in Nashville and the Predators are expecting the same for Andrei. He has a nice skill-set, but he needs to improve his consistency. The price they paid seems fair, but I do believe the Habs may have been able to get a bit more had they waited until it was a little closer to the deadline. With that said, the 2nd-round pick could be used by the Habs in the off-season as a trade chip to acquire a player for next season and the conditional pick was originally traded to the Predators by the Canadiens in the Hal Gill trade so basically that just allows them to keep their own pick so its not a terrible return for the Canadiens, and it was expected that a deal like that was going to be completed. A pretty fair trade for both sides in my opinion.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  10:37 AM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: Its Official The Nashville Predators Have Acquired Andrei Kostitsyn From The Montreal Canadiens

- We haven't gotten any news on what is heading back to the Canadiens, but it has been confirmed that the Predators have in-fact acquired Andrei Kostitsyn. I like the added offensive firepower to the Preds top-six, I won't judge the trade until we find out what is headed back.

RUMOR: Detroit May Be Very Close To Acquiring Paul Gaustad

- If they pay anything close to the first-rounder that Buffalo was originally asking for its a mistake in my opinion.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:  10:25 AM:

TWITTER: Bob McKenzie- "Not confirmed, but hearing very strong rumors of Andrei Kostitsyn to NSH."

- The Predators have made a trade with the Habs already once this season with the acquisition of Hal Gill, and during that negotiation they were hoping to plant some seeds for an Andrei Kostitsyn trade. With Andrei's brother Sergei succeeding in Nashville, the Predators have been a likely destination for the pending UFA for the past few months.

RUMOR: The Rangers Continue To Shop For A Depth Defenseman; Looking At Johnny Oduya

-The Rangers have been trying to land a depth defenseman for the past few days and they targeted Oduya as one of their top players to fill that whole. The Jets have made it clear that they will be both buyers and sellers and its been written publicly that one of the Jets players that might be moved is Johnny Oduya.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   9:52 AM:

RUMOR: The Canucks continue to be very active buyers; Pushing hard for Olli Jokinen

- Vancouver has targeted Olli Jokinen as a player they would like to acquire for the stretch run, but the Flames appear to be a bit hesitant to move the thirty-three year old.
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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   9:52 AM:

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob- "Andrei Kostitsyn #Habs was told he has been TRADED! Deal going through the NHL offices as we speak.."

- hmm very interesting stuff. The Habs are expected to make a few moves today so I wouldn't be surprised at all to see them move Kostitsyn. 

TWITTER: Arthur Staple- "Isles getting calls on PA Parenteau, Milan Jurcina and Mark Eaton this AM... Expect one or both D-men to be moved."

- Very, very interesting. Its looking like the Islanders will be making a handful of moves today and be an active team on deadline day for the first time in awhile.

TWITTER: D. Dreger-"PA Parenteau would prefer to stay with the Islanders, however, sources say the Isles are now taking offers on the pending UFA."

- That in my opinion sounds as though the Isles have gotten some enticing offers for PA Parenteau and its causing them to consider moving him. He's been a very important player for the Islanders and I would be happy to re-sign him, but if there is a nice offer for him Snow might have to take it. The word going around is that the Isles are asking for a first-round draft pick and a player in return, and they might actually be able to get that. 

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   9:13 AM:

TWITTER: Pierre LeBrun- "One team exec says Sabres asking for first-round pick for Paul Gaustad. ``Crazy price,'' he says."

- I agree with the anonymous team executive. The Sabres front office is absolutely out of their mind if they believe they can get a first-round draft pick for Gaustad, but if they somehow pulled that off it'd be a big steal.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   9:13 AM:

RUMOR: According to Darren Dreger the San Jose Sharks offered Antti Niemi to the Flyers for James van Riemsdyk

- The deal was rejected by the Flyers, but its still a very interesting piece of information. I'm surprised the Sharks are making Niemi available.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   9:02 AM:

RUMOR: Capitals Have Put Nicklas Backstrom On Long Term Injured Reserve

- This makes the Caps a big-time player today because of the increased cap space. I believe they will almost surely make a big move. Because its retrospective the Capitals can take Backstrom off of the IR when ever they want.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   8:39 AM:

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob- "**BREAKING NHL NEWS**Source: CBJ have traded Pahlsson --- Details just coming in now.. "

- This has been expected, but I'm excited to see who he's headed to and for what.

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Trade Deadline: Monday: February 27th, 2012:   8:35 AM:

RUMOR: The Canucks are still trying to land Steve Ott from Stars

- Although the Stars have been hesitant to move Ott, the Canucks continue to push hard for him. I'm not sure if they will be able to land him, but if he does get traded it will be to the Canucks.

RUMOR: Sabres Consider Trading Derek Roy

- St. Louis, Montreal, Chicago and Toronto are interested and I could see the Leafs making a big push for him. I think we'll see him moved by the deadline.

RUMOR: Islanders Still Trying To Re-Sign Nabokov

- It doesn't look like the Isles will be moving Nabokov and for good reason. He's been great this year and if they can re-sign him it will be a great move for this season and next year as well.

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Sunday:  February 26th, 2012:   5:05 PM:

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob- "Leafs getting real close to acquiring a goalie (Harding's name is what I am hearing) Burke kicking tires"

- Burke is clearly upset with his team's performance in the past few weeks, and a big piece of their lack of success is the poor goaltending. Its no surprise to hear that the Leafs are trying to land another goalie, but I'm not sure if anything will end up materializing for them.

RUMOR: Rangers trying to acquire Chris Campoli

- Might be a nice depth pick-up for them. He has a solid offensive game, and he will not cost much so he could be a good fit for a bottom-pairing role.

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Sunday:  February 26th, 2012:   3:15 PM:

CONFIRMED TRADE: The St. Louis Blues have dealt goaltender Ben Bishop to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for a second-round selection in the 2013 entry draft.

- As I mentioned yesterday the Senators had been trying to work out a trade to acquire Ben Bishop from the Blues and this morning they were able to finalize a deal. The Senators traded a second-round draft pick in 2013 for the 6'7 goaltender. Just before the trade was completed the Blues signed him to a one-year, one-way extension, so the Senators will have him already under contract for next season. Although Bishop might help their club now (considering the uncertainty in net with Craig Anderson's injury) I did feel it was a bit of an overpayment. At twenty-five years old he's only played thirteen NHL games and is still a question mark. I also believe this deal could possibly alienate one of the Senators top prospects, goaltender Robin Lehner, which is the last thing they should do considering his huge upside. For the Blues they move a goaltender that has been in the system for years and seemed to get lost in their depth chart. With Jake Allen and Jordan Binnington, they have some solid prospects in net and with Brian Elliot and Jaroslav Halak at the NHL level, they are set for many years to come in regards to goaltending. Because of that comfort level with their netminders it was really no surprise that they let Bishop go for a second-round pick.

RUMOR: Islanders Getting Calls On Kyle Okposo

- Although the Isles haven't been officially shopping Okposo, they've seen a lot of interest in him from other teams around the league. Of all the suitors, the Boston Bruins seem to have the most significant interest. The Bruins have made it clear to Isles GM Garth Snow that they would be willing to include some nice assets, but Snow is staying firm on his high expectation of Okposo's worth.

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Saturday:  February 25th, 2012:   11:58 PM:

RUMOR: Toronto Maple Leafs are getting a lot of calls about Colby Armstrong
- Armstrong has struggled this season whether it be with injuries or in his actual play, he hasn't been the player that the Leafs want him to be. Despite his performance the Leafs have received some interest and I think we could see him moved soon.

RUMOR: The Ottawa Senators are in discussions with St. Louis to acquire Ben Bishop
- With Robin Lehner making his way up the Ottawa depth chart, I really don't expect the Sens to be willing to pay a large price for Bishop. With that being said if they can add him for a fair price he'd be a nice addition for them.

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Saturday:  February 25th, 2012:   5:24 PM:

TWITTER: Arthur Staple- "Despite his poor season so far, don't be surprised if Brian Rolston gets claimed. #Isles had a couple calls inquiring this week."

- I would be shocked if Rolston gets claimed, but if he does (for some odd reason) its good news for Islanders fans and for Isles owner Charles Wang.

QUOTE: Ducks GM Bob Murray on Selanne "For the last time, Teemu is not going anywhere,''

- As expected the Anaheim Ducks will be holding onto Selanne, who continues to play great hockey despite of his age. For months people have speculated that he might return to Winnipeg to play with the Jets once again, but Anaheim's resurgence in the standings has kept him in the fold there.

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Saturday:  February 25th, 2012:   2:19 PM:

RUMOR: Rangers close to acquiring Rick Nash

- This would be HUGE news and as an Islanders fan it scares the hell out of me. It would definitely make them a Stanley Cup favorite, but they would pay a pretty hefty price that would include one or two of Dubinsky, Del Zotto, Erixon and a 1st round pick. I am skeptical about Nash being the key to their success, but he would definitely be a big piece of the puzzle.

RUMOR: Jonathan Bernier Very Unhappy In Los Angeles

- I heard this morning that he had asked for a trade, but that report is yet to be confirmed. I do know that he is extremely unhappy and is really hoping to become an number one goaltender now whether it be with the Kings or not. I expect him to be traded soon.
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Saturday:  February 25th, 2012:   2:00 PM:

Columbus Blue Jackets claimed Darryl Boyce on waivers from the Maple Leafs
- He's a solid depth forward that will be a nice fit in Columbus. With all their imminent changes the Jackets will need some warm bodies to ride out the year. He gives them some physicality and will bring a solid work ethic every day.

Players Placed On Waivers:
Krys Kolanos (CGY)

Grant Clitsome (CBJ)

Ryan Russell (CBJ)

Brad Staubitz (MIN) (Re-Entry)

Eric Boulton (NJD)
- Some interesting players there, especially Grant Clitsome who is coming off of an impressive end to the 2010-11 season where he put up 19 points in 31 games. So far this year he has 14 points in 51 games. I am hoping that the Islanders take a chance on the twenty-six year old defenseman.

TWITTER: IncarceratedBob just tweeted- "Ok the DEAL has finally happened.. Twitter #NHL shutdown in 5.. 4.. 3... 2... 1"
-I assume this is about Nash...get ready boys, its about to get cray.

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Saturday:    February 25th, 2012:   1:38 PM:

Ok things are beginning to get crazy, a lot of movement starting up. With the trade deadline in two days I'm going to begin my NHL Trade Deadline Weekend Live Blog. I will update it continuously with rumors and news as I hear them, and will give some insight on transactions here. For the bigger moves or any Islanders moves I will make their own post. Keep checking up, because for the next 48 hours this will be the place to find out all the news and rumors....and...here...we...go.


Here is the color coded key:
Yellow= Rumor Update
Green= Twitter Update
Orange= Waiver Updates
Light Blue= Interesting Quote
Red= Confirmed Trade
Purple= Confirmed Signing
Blue Background and Orange Letters= Islanders Related