Canada 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Martin Brodeur, (New Jersey Devils, NHL)
Roberto Luongo, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Marc-Andre Fleury, (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL)

Defensemen (7)
Chris Pronger, (A) (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)
Shea Weber, (Nashville Predators, NHL)
Brent Seabrook, (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL)
Scott Niedermayer, (C) (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Dan Boyle, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Drew Doughty, (Los Angeles Kings, NHL)
Duncan Keith, (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL)

Forwards (13)
Sidney Crosby, (A) (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL)
Jarome Iginla, (A) (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Jonathan Toews, (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL)
Rick Nash, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Eric Staal, (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Mike Richards, (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)
Brenden Morrow, (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Dany Heatley, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Joe Thornton, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Ryan Getzlaf, (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Patrick Marleau, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Corey Perry, (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Patrice Bergeron, (Boston Bruins, NHL)

Switzerland 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Switzerland at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Martin Gerber, Atlant Mytishchi (KHL)
Jonas Hiller, (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Tobias Stephan, Geneva-Servette

Defensemen (8)
Goran Bezina, Geneva-Servette
Severin Blindenbacher, Färjestad Karlstad (Swedish Elite League)
Rafael Diaz, EV Zug
Roman Josi, SC Bern
Luca Sbisa, (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL)
Mathias Seger, ZSC Lions Zurich
Mark Streit, (New York Islanders, NHL)
Yannick Weber, (Hamilton Bulldogs, AHL)

Forwards (12)
Andres Ambühl, (Hartford Wolf Pack, AHL)
Thomas Déruns, Geneva-Servette
Hnat Domenichelli, HC Lugano
Sandy Jeannin, HC Fribourg-Gottéron
Thibaut Monnet, ZSC Lions Zurich
Thierry Paterlini, Rapperswil-Jona Lakers
Martin Plüss, SC Bern
Kevin Romy, HC Lugano
Ivo Rüthemann, SC Bern
Raffaele Sannitz, HC Lugano
Julien Sprunger, HC Fribourg-Gottéron
Roman Wick, Kloten Flyers

Germany 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Germany at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Dennis Endras, Augsburger Panther (German Elite League)
Thomas Greiss, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Dimitri Patzold, ERC Ingolstadt (German Elite League)

Defensemen (8)
Michael Bakos, ERC Ingolstadt (German Elite League)
Christian Ehrhoff, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Jakub Ficenec, ERC Ingolstadt (German Elite League
Jason Holland, DEG Metro Stars Düsseldorf (German Elite League)
Korbinian Holzer, DEG Metro Stars Düsseldorf (German Elite League)
Chris Schmidt, Adler Mannheim (German Elite League)
Dennis Seidenberg, (Florida Panthers, NHL)
Alexander Sulzer, (Nashville Predators, NHL)

Forwards (12)
Alexander Barta, Hamburg Freezers (German Elite League)
Sven Felski, Eisbären Berlin (German Elite League)
Marcel Goc, (Nashville Predators, NHL)
Philip Gogulla, (Portland Pirates, AHL)
Thomas Greilinger, ERC Ingolstadt (German Elite League)
Manuel Klinge, Kassel Huskies (German Elite League)
Marcel Müller, Kölner Haie (German Elite League)
Travis James Mulock, Eisbären Berlin (German Elite League)
André Rankel, Eisbären Berlin (German Elite League)
Marco Sturm, (Boston Bruins, NHL)
John Tripp, Hamburg Freezers (German Elite League)
Michael Wolf, Iserlohn Roosters (German Elite League)

Finland 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Finland at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Niklas Backstrom, (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Miikka Kiprusoff, (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Antero Niittymaki, (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)

Defensemen (7)
Lasse Kukkonen, Avangard Omsk (KHL)
Sami Lepisto, (Phoenix Coyotes, NHL)
Toni Lydman, (Buffalo Sabres, NHL)
Janne Niskala, Frölunda (Swedish Elite League)
Joni Pitkanen, (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Sami Salo, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Kimmo Timonen, (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)

Forwards (13)
Valtteri Filppula, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Niklas Hagman, (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Jarkko Immonen, Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)
Olli Jokinen, (New York Rangers, NHL)
Niko Kapanen, Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)
Mikko Koivu, (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Saku Koivu, (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Jere Lehtinen, (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Antti Miettinen, (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Ville Peltonen, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Jarkko Ruutu, (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Tuomo Ruutu, (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Teemu Selanne, (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)

Czech Republic 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for the Czech Republic at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Ondrej Pavelec, (Atlanta Thrashers, NHL)
Jakub Stepanek, HC Vitkovice
Tomas Vokoun, (Florida Panthers, NHL)

Defensemen (8)
Miroslav Blatak, Salavat Yulaev Ufa (KHL)
Jan Hejda, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Tomas Kaberle, (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL)
Filip Kuba, (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Pavel Kubina, (Atlanta Thrashers, NHL)
Zbynek Michalek, (Phoenix Coyotes, NHL)
Roman Polak, (St. Louis Blues, NHL)
Marek Zidlicky, (Minnesota Wild, NHL)

Forwards (12)
Petr Cajanek, SKA Petrohrad
Roman Cervenka, HC Slavia
Patrik Elias, (New Jersey Devils, NHL)
Martin Erat, (Nashville Predators, NHL)
Tomas Fleischmann, (Washington Capitals, NHL)
Martin Havlat, (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Jaromir Jagr, Avangard Omsk (KHL)
David Krejci, (Boston Bruins, NHL)
Milan Michalek, (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Tomas Plekanec, (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Tomas Rolinek, Metallurg (KHL)
Josef Vasicek, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)

Slovakia 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Slovakia at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Peter Budaj, (Colorado Avalanche, NHL)
Jaroslav Halak, (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Rastislav Stana, Severstal (KHL)

Defensemen (7)
Zdeno Chara, (Boston Bruins, NHL)
Milan Jurcina, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Richard Lintner, Dinamo Minsk (KHL)
Andrej Meszaros, (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
Andrej Sekera, (Buffalo Sabres, NHL)
Martin Strbak, HC MVD (KHL)
Lubomir Visnovsky, (Edmonton Oilers, NHL)

Forwards (13)
Lubos Bartecko, SC Bern (Switzerland)
Branko Radivojevic, Spartak Moscow (KHL)
Martin Cibak, Spartak Moscow (KHL)
Pavol Demitra, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Marian Gaborik, (New York Rangers, NHL)
Michal Handzus, (Los Angeles Kings, NHL)
Marian Hossa, (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL)
Marcel Hossa, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Tomas Kopecky, (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL)
Zigmund Palffy, HK 36 (Slovakia)
Jozef Stumpel, Barys Astana (KHL)
Miroslav Satan, (Boston Bruins, NHL)
Richard Zednik, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)

Norway 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Norway at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Pål Grotnes, Stjernen
Andre Lysenstøen, Heki (Finnish Elite League)
Ruben Smith, Storhamar

Defensemen (7)
Alexander Bonsaken, Modo (Swedish Elite League)
Jonas Holøs, Färjestad (Swedish Elite League)
Tommy Jakobsen, Lørenskog
Juha Kaunismäki, Stavanger Oilers
Lars-Erik Lund, Vålerenga
Ole-Kristian Tollefsen, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Mats Trygg, Kölner Haie (German Elite League)

Forwards (13)
Morten Ask, Nürnberg (German Elite League)
Anders Bastiansen, Färjestad (Swedish Elite League)
Kristian Forsberg, Modo (Swedish Elite League)
Mads Hansen, Brynäs (Swedish Elite League)
Marius Holtet, Färjestad (Swedish Elite League)
Lars-Erik Spets, Vålerenga
Mathis Olimb, Frölunda (Swedish Elite League)
Martin Røymark, Frölunda (Swedish Elite League)
Per-Åge Skrøder, Modo (Swedish Elite League)
Patrick Thoresen, Ufa Salavat (KHL)
Tore Vikingstad, Hannover (German Elite League)
Martin Laumann Ylven, Linköping (Swedish Elite League)
Mats Zuccarello Aasen, Modo (Swedish Elite League)

Latvia 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Latvia at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Edgars Masalskis, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Ervins Mustukovs, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Sergejs Naumovs, (free agent)

Defensemen (8)
Oskars Bartulis, (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)
Guntis Galvins, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Rodrigo Lavins, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Georgijs Pujacs, Sibir Novosibirsk (KHL)
Krisjanis Redlihs, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Arvids Rekis, Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg (German Elite League)
Karlis Skrastins, (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Kristaps Sotnieks, Dinamo Riga (KHL)

Forwards (12)
Girts Ankipans, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Armands Berzins, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Martins Cipulis, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Lauris Darzins, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Kaspars Daugavins, (Binghamton Senators, AHL)
Martins Karsums, (Norfolk Admirals, AHL)
Gints Meija, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Aleksandrs Nizivijs, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Mikelis Redlihs, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Aleksejs Sirokovs, Amur Khabarovsk (KHL)
Janis Sprukts, Dinamo Riga (KHL)
Herberts Vasiljevs, Krefeld Pinguine (German Elite League)

Sweden 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Sweden at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Henrik Lundqvist, (New York Rangers, NHL)
Jonas Gustavsson, (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL)
Stefan Liv, Jonkoping (Swedish Elite League)

Defensemen (8)
Tobias Enstrom, (Atlanta Thrashers, NHL)
Magnus Johansson, Linkopings (Swedish Elite League)
Niklas Kronwall, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Nicklas Lidstrom, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Douglas Murray, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Johnny Oduya, (Atlanta Thrashers, NHL)
Mattias Ohlund, (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
Henrik Tallinder, (Buffalo Sabres, NHL)

Forwards (12)
Daniel Alfredsson, (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Nicklas Backstrom, (Washington Capitals, NHL)
Loui Eriksson, (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Peter Forsberg, MODO (Swedish Elite League)
Johan Franzen, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Patric Hornqvist, (Nashville Predators, NHL)
Fredrik Modin, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Samuel Pahlsson, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Daniel Sedin, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Henrik Sedin, (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Mattias Weinhandl, Moscow Dynamo (KHL)
Henrik Zetterberg, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)

WILL NOT PLAY
Tomas Holmstrom, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL) (replaced by Johan Franzen)

Russia 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Russia at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Evgeni Nabokov, (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Ilya Bryzgalov, (Phoenix Coyotes, NHL)
Semyon Varlamov, (Washington Capitals, NHL)

Defensemen (8)
Sergei Gonchar, (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL)
Fedor Tyutin, (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL)
Dmitry Kalinin, Salavat Yulayev (KHL)
Denis Grebeshkov, (Edmonton Oilers, NHL)
Anton Volchenkov, (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Andrei Markov, (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Konstantin Korneyev, CSKA Moscow (KHL)
Ilya Nikulin, Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)

Forwards (12)
Alex Ovechkin, (Washington Capitals, NHL)
Ilya Kovalchuk, (New Jersey Devils, NHL)
Evgeni Malkin, (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL)
Maxim Afinogenov, (Atlanta Thrashers, NHL)
Alexander Semin, (Washington Capitals, NHL)
Pavel Datsyuk, (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Alexei Morozov, Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)
Viktor Kozlov, Salavat Yulayev (KHL)
Alexander Radulov, Salavat Yulayev (KHL)
Danis Zaripov, Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)
Sergei Zinoviev, Salavat Yulayev (KHL)
Sergei Fedorov, Metallurg (KHL)

Belarus 2010 Olympic Roster

Here is the roster for Belarus at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Goaltenders (3)
Vitali Koval, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Maxim Malyutin, HK Vitebsk
Andrei Mezin, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)

Defensemen (8):
Andrei Antonov, Shakhter Soligorsk
Andrei Bashko, Shakhter Soligorsk
Vladimir Denisov, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Viktor Kostiuchenok, Amur Khabarovsk (KHL)
Ruslan Salei, (Colorado Avalanche, NHL)
Nikolai Stasenko, Amur Khabarovsk (KHL)
Vadim Sushko, Shakhter Soligorsk
Alexander Syrei, Shakhter Soligorsk

Forwards (12)
Oleg Antonenko, Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg (KHL)
Sergei Demagin, Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk (KHL)
Mikhail Grabovski, (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL)
Alexei Kaliuzhny, Dynamo Moscow (KHL)
Konstantin Koltsov, Salavat Yulayev Ufa (KHL)
Andrei Kostitsyn, (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Sergei Kostitsyn, (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Alexander Kulakov, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Andrei Mikhalev, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Andrei Stas, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)
Alexei Ugarov, MVD Balashikha (KHL)
Sergei Zadelenov, Dynamo Minsk (KHL)

Capitals Ship Clark, Jurcina to Blue Jackets for Chimera

The Washington Capitals announced today that they have traded right wing and team captain Chris Clark and defenseman Milan Jurcina to the Columbus Blue Jackets for left wing Jason Chimera. In 38 games so far this season, Clark has four goals and 11 assists for 15 points, while Jurcina has played in 27 games, scoring four assists. Chimera has appeared in 39 games this season, scoring eight goals and nine assists for 17 points. Not a bad trade for both teams, but not an earth-shattering one by any means, although it's not too often you see a team trade their captain during the middle of a season. However, this move trims a little over $2 million from the Capitals' payroll, so this could be the prelude to a later trade for the team, as they could be in the market for a top-four defenseman. The Capitals could also use this extra salary cap space toward re-sign impending restricted free agents Nicklas Backstrom and Tomas Fleischmann. For the Blue Jackets, this trade was likely done to help pull the team out of their current losing skid, though it will likely take more than Clark and Jurcina to get the Blue Jackets back on a winning track. Chimera will bring plenty of gritty, two-way play to the Capitals' checking line, while Clark brings plenty of leadership and offensive depth to the Blue Jackets' offense. Jurcina brings plenty of defensive depth to Columbus' blueline which is currently without Rostislav Klesla and Marc Methot due to injuries.

Capitals Sign Semin to One-Year Extension

The Washington Capitals announced on Saturday that they have signed right wing Alexander Semin to a one-year contract extension. The deal is reportedly worth $6 million. He would have been a restricted free agent in the summer and could have been a likely candidate for an offer sheet from a rival team. In 29 games so far this season, Semin has 14 goals and 18 assists for 32 points. In 283 career NHL games, all with the Capitals, he has 122 goals and 126 assists for 248 points. This is a great signing for the Capitals, as Semin has developed into a reliable scorer over the past few seasons and has helped make the team more competitive. With one key free agent re-signed, the Capitals will turn their attention in the coming months to re-signing Nicklas Backstrom, Tomas Fleischmann, Simeon Varlamov, and possibly Brendan Morrison. If the salary cap remains close to $56.8 million for next season, the Capitals would have roughly $20 million to re-sign these players, which should be enough to get them all signed to new contracts, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Coyotes Sign Free Agent Defenseman Eriksson

The Phoenix Coyotes have announced that they have signed free agent defenseman Anders Eriksson to a contract. Eriksson did not play in the NHL last season, instead appearing in 64 AHL games with the Quad City Flames, scoring four goals and 45 assists for 49 points and 60 penalty minutes. He has appeared in two games with the Coyotes since the signing, picking up one assist in his first game. In 554 career NHL games with the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Phoenix Coyotes, he has 22 goals and 150 assists for 172 points. Eriksson had been playing with the Coyotes' AHL affiliate in San Antonio, so he was likely there on a tryout contract. This isn't a bad depth move on defense for the Coyotes. Eriksson's presence on the blueline gives the team another veteran to go along with the likes of Ed Jovanovski, Jim Vandermeer, and Adrian Aucoin. Look for Eriksson to play on the third defensive pairing, chipping in assists here and there throughout the season.

Flyers Claim Goalie Leighton Off Waivers from Hurricanes

The Philadelphia Flyers announced today that they have claimed goaltender Michael Leighton off re-entry waivers from the Carolina Hurricanes. Leighton's cap hit to the Flyers will be $200,000 since he was claimed off re-entry waivers. In seven games with the Hurricanes this season, he has posted a 1-4-0 record with a 4.28 GAA and a .848 save percentage. This will be his second stint with the Flyers. With Ray Emery sidelined for six weeks with an abdominal tear, the Flyers had been rumored in the market for a goaltender. The move is very cost-friendly for the Flyers, who are very close to the salary cap, but I'm not so sure Leighton will be very effective for the Flyers. Sure he will provide some experience in goal, but he hasn't been that impressive over the past few seasons, let alone played very much. According to a report this afternoon, the Montreal Canadiens had offered goaltender Jaroslav Halak to the Flyers, but the Flyers rejected the offer and opted to go for Leighton instead. The Canadiens were rumored interested in either a top-six forward or a second round draft pick. While trading for Halak would have been a better choice, the Flyers likely did not want to part with a forward or high draft pick, and instead, gave up nothing to land Leighton. While he was the cheapest option for the team, I have my doubts that Leighton will be effective for the Flyers and it would not surprise me if they start looking for another goalie in a couple of weeks. They should have traded for Halak instead.

Blue Jackets Acquire Bell, Kana from Blues for Pelletier

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced today that they have acquired defenseman Brendan Bell and center Tomas Kana from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for left wing Pascal Pelletier. None of these players have played in the NHL so far this season. Pelletier appeared in seven games last season with the Chicago Blackhawks, scoring no points, while Bell played in 53 games with the Ottawa Senators last season, scoring six goals and 15 assists for 21 points. Kana has yet to appear in an NHL game. This is really just a minor league deal for both teams, as Pelletier and Kana likely won't see much, if any, NHL action this season. Bell, on the other hand, could possibly see some action this season with the Blue Jackets. He is a decent seventh defenseman who can help out a team on the power play, so if injuries become a problem for the Blue Jackets' defense throughout the season, Bell would be a suitable replacement.

Capitals Claim Chris Bourque Off Waivers from Penguins

The Washington Capitals have announced that they have claimed left wing Chris Bourque off waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins had originally claimed him off waivers from the Capitals this past September. In 20 games so far this season, he has three assists and is currently assigned to the Capitals' AHL affiliate in Hershey. Not a bad depth move for the Capitals to reacquire one of their former prospects. The son of legendary Boston Bruins defenseman Ray Bourque has plenty of offensive skill and the potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL, but at 23, he is starting to run out of time to prove he has the skills to remain in the NHL full time. Perhaps the Capitals will give Bourque another chance to crack the lineup, as several of their forwards are still sidelined with injuries.

Blackhawks Extend Toews, Kane, Keith

The Chicago Blackhawks locked up three important pieces of their future by announcing multi-year contract extensions to center Jonathan Toews, right wing Patrick Kane, and defenseman Duncan Keith. Toews and Kane both signed five-year, $31.5 million deals, while Keith signed a 13-year contract worth $72 million. Toews and Kane's deals average out to $6.3 million per season, while Keith's averages out to $5.5 million per year. In 22 games so far this season, Toews has seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points, while Kane has nine goals and 18 assists for 27 points in 28 games. Keith has five goals and 18 assists for 23 points in 28 games so far this season. These are great signings for the Blackhawks, as Toews has exceptional goal-scoring skills and is a great leader on the ice, Kane has excellent offensive skills, especially on the power play, while Keith gives the team plenty of offensive production from the blueline. These signings will help keep the Blackhawks a competitive team for the foreseeable future. The major downside to these signings is that the Blackhawks are going to have to shed some salary during the offseason in order to accommodate the new contracts. Patrick Sharp, Dustin Byfuglien, Brent Seabrook, Cam Barker, and Brent Sopel have all been mentioned as possible trade candidates to help the Blackhawks trim their payroll. However, don't expect to see any of these players get traded until the summer, as Kane, Toews, and Keith's new contracts don't kick in until July 1 and if the Blackhawks are going to make a run for the Stanley Cup this season, they will need all of these players. It shouldn't be too hard for the team to move any of the aforementioned players during the summer, as they all have plenty of skill and don't have terribly expensive contracts.

Maple Leafs trade Tlusty to Hurricanes for Paradis

The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that they have shipped left wing Jiri Tlusty to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for the rights to center Philippe Paradis. Tlusty has appeared in only two games this season prior to the trade, scoring no points. He is currently assigned to the Hurricanes' AHL affiliate in Albany. In 74 career games, all with the Maple Leafs, he has 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points. Paradis was the Hurricanes' first pick in the 2009 draft, selected 27th overall. In 66 games last season with Sawinigan of the QMJHL, he scored 19 goals and 31 assists for 50 points and 74 penalty minutes. This could be a decent trade for both teams. Tlusty has plenty of offensive promise, but failed to live up to it in Toronto. Perhaps a change of scenery will help him get his career back on track, and if so, he could become one of the top wingers on the Hurricanes at some point in the future since the team will likely start rebuilding this summer. Paradis has lots of offensive upside and toughness, which will give the Maple Leafs another talented center to help them rebuild their team.

Rangers Claim Christensen Off Waivers from the Ducks

The New York Rangers have announced that they have claimed center Erik Christensen off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks. This move comes in the wake of the Ducks acquiring center Kyle Chipchura from the Montreal Canadiens, thus making Christensen expendable. In only 11 games so far this season, Christensen has yet to record a point. He has been a healthy scratch for much of the season and had recently popped up in trade rumors. This is really just a depth move for the Rangers, as Christensen has struggled to put up decent offensive numbers that past two seasons. Perhaps a change of scenery will help him gain some offensive flair, but for now, he will likely center the third or fourth line.

Ducks Acquire Chipchura from Canadiens

The Anaheim Ducks have announced that they have acquired center Kyle Chipchura from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for a fourth round draft pick in 2011. Chipchura has struggled this season, scoring no points in 21 games so far. The verdict is still out on this trade. Chipchura was once of the Canadiens' top prospects for several years and was projected to become a highly skilled forward, but has struggled to put up decent numbers at the NHL level. Perhaps a change of scenery will help him get his career back on track and he will definitely get a chance at a fresh start with the rebuilding Ducks. For now, Chipchura will likely give the team fourth line depth in the wake of them losing Erik Christensen to the New York Rangers via waivers.

Sharks Claim Leach Off Waivers from Canadiens

The San Jose Sharks have announced that they have claimed defenseman Jay Leach off waivers from the Montreal Canadiens. The Sharks make the third team Leach has played for so far this season, previously being claimed off waivers by the Canadiens from the New Jersey Devils in November. He has no points and five penalty minutes in seven games so far this season. This is really nothing more than a depth move for the Sharks to give them a little more experience and toughness on the blueline.

Sharks Acquire Dany Heatley from Senators

The Ottawa Senators have finally found Dany Heatley a new home, as they have sent the disgruntled left wing to the San Jose Sharks along with a fifth round pick in the 2010 Entry Draft in exchange for right wing Jonathan Cheechoo, left wing Milan Michalek, and San Jose's second round pick in 2010. The move comes months after Heatley requested a trade from Ottawa and refused to waive his no-trade clause to facilitate a trade to the Edmonton Oilers. It was rumored the Senators were asking for Dustin Penner, Ladislav Smid, and Andrew Cogliano in return for Heatley. Rumors began to swirl over the last month that the Sharks were interested in acquiring Heatley. A rumored three-way trade between Ottawa, San Jose, and the Los Angeles Kings surfaced on Friday, but was quickly shot down by the general managers of the three teams. That deal would have seen Heatley go to San Jose, Patrick Marleau go to the Kings, and Alexander Frolov and Jarret Stoll go to Ottawa.

In all 82 games last season for the Senators, Heatley scored 39 goals and 33 assists for 72 points. In 507 career games with the Senators and Atlanta Thrashers, he has 260 goals and 283 assists for 543 points. Cheechoo appeared in 66 games last season with the Sharks, scoring 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points. In 440 career games, all with the Sharks, he has 165 goals and 126 assists for 291 points. Michalek played in 77 games with the Sharks last season, scoring 23 goals and 34 assists for 57 points. In 317 career games, all with San Jose, he has 91 goals and 123 assists for 214 points.

Not a bad trade for both teams, as it fills needs for the Sharks and Senators. The Sharks get a dynamic scorer in Heatley who also excels on the power play. They are also shaking up their roster a bit in the process, something GM Doug Wilson stated he was hoping to do this summer after a disappointing 2009 playoffs. Despite giving up two top-six forwards for Heatley, the Sharks have plenty of young forwards who could easily replace Cheechoo and Michalek on the wing. The trade gives the Senators some desperately needed scoring depth. Cheechoo and Michalek will both bring plenty of offensive depth and skill to the team, and when on top of their respected games, both can rack up a lot of points and goals. However, Cheechoo has been in offensive decline for the last few seasons, and if he cannot turn his game around in Ottawa, this could end up being a bad trade for the Senators. For now, I'd say it's a fairly even trade, but we probably won't know for a few months who won in this trade.

Blues Sign Defensemen Richmond & Fletcher

The St. Louis Blues have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Danny Richmond and signed defenseman Justin Fletcher to contracts. Exact length and financial terms of their deals were not disclosed. Richmond was traded to the Blues from the Pittsburgh Penguins at the 2009 trade deadline for defenseman Andy Wozniewski. Richmond did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 73 AHL games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Peoria, scoring four goals and 18 assists for 22 points and 129 penalty minutes. He has appeared in 49 NHL games with the Carolina Hurricanes and Chicago Blackhawks, scoring three assists and 75 penalty minutes. Fletcher did not play in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 68 AHL games with Peoria, scoring eight goals and 24 assists for 32 points and 50 penalty minutes. These are really just depth signings for the Blues. Richmond is a very physical blueliner, while Fletcher plays with a bit of offense to his game. Both players will likely spend most of next season in the minors given the team’s depth on defense.

Kings Re-Sign Defenseman Bagnall & Forward Purcell

The Los Angeles Kings have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Drew Bagnall and right wing Teddy Purcell to one-year contracts. Terms of both of their deals were not disclosed. Bagnall did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 79 games with the Kings’ AHL affiliate in Manchester, scoring six assists and 150 penalty minutes. Purcell appeared in 40 games with the Kings last season, scoring four goals and 12 assists for 16 points. He also played in 38 games with Manchester, scoring 16 goals and 22 assists for 38 points. Bagnall is really nothing more than a depth signing for the Kings. He is a big, physical defenseman, but could have a hard time cracking the Kings’ lineup given the number of high-end defensive prospects they have. Purcell is not a bad signing for the Kings. He has the potential to become a scoring winger in the NHL, and if he can improve his production next season, he could get a contract extension from the Kings next summer.

Canadiens Sign Goalie Sanford to One-Year Contract

The Montreal Canadiens have continued to retool their roster by signing goaltender Curtis Sanford to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. In 19 games last season with the Vancouver Canucks, Sanford posted a 7-8-0 record with a 2.59 GAA and a .906 save percentage. He also played in 16 games with the Canucks’ AHL affiliate in Manitoba, posting a 7-3-3 record with a 1.73 GAA and a .936 save percentage. Not a bad back-up goalie signing for the Canadiens, as Sanford has been a very steady goaltender the past couple seasons in Vancouver. He will likely spend quite a bit of time in the minors next season, but if Carey Price or Jaroslav Halak should struggle or miss time due to an injury, Sanford will definitely get the call in goal as the back-up.

Bruins Re-Sign Defenseman Hunwick to Two-Year Contract

The Boston Bruins have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Matt Hunwick to a two-year contract worth $2.9 million. The deal averages out to $1.45 million per season. In 53 games last season with the Bruins, Hunwick scored six goals and 21 assists for 27 points. In 66 career games with the team, he has six goals and 22 assists for 28 points. This is a decent move for Boston, as Hunwick has good puck-moving skills and some offensive potential, as well as the potential to become a top-four defenseman. If he can continue to improve his skills over the next couple of seasons, the Bruins could look to keep Hunwick long-term.

Sabres Re-Sign Defenseman Sekera and Forward MacArthur

The Buffalo Sabres announced that they have re-signed defenseman Andrej Sekera to a two-year contract worth $2 million and left wing Clarke MacArthur to a one-year contract worth $522,500. Sekera’s deal averages out to $1 million per season. In 69 games last season with Buffalo, Sekera scored three goals and 16 assists for 19 points. In 108 career games, all with the Sabres, he has five goals and 22 assists for 27 points. MacArthur played in 71 games last season with Buffalo, scoring 17 goals and 14 assists for 31 points. In 127 career games, all with the Sabres, he has 28 goals and 25 assists for 53 points.

These are decent signings for the Sabres. Sekera is very mobile, great with the puck, and also skilled on the power play. He should develop into a top-four defenseman for the team in the future. MacArthur is a skilled two-way player who is a great playmaker and has decent skill on the power play. If he can continue to improve his offensive play every season, he should develop into a top-six forward for the Sabres.

Blackhawks Sign Forward Bois to One-Year Contract

The Chicago Blackhawks have announced that they have signed right wing Danny Bois to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Bois appeared in 66 games last season with Binghamton of the AHL, scoring 12 goals and 12 assist for 24 points and 149 penalty minutes. He has appeared in only one NHL game, doing so with the Ottawa Senators during the 2006-07 season. This is really just a depth signing for the Blackhawks, as Bois will probably spend most of next season in the minors. If he does play with the team next season, he will provide lots of toughness and offensive depth to the team.

Hurricanes Re-Sign Defensemen Carson and Rodney

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced that they have re-signed defensemen Brett Carson and Bryan Rodney to one-year, two-way contracts. Terms of the deals were not disclosed. Carson appeared in five games for the Hurricanes last season, scoring no points. He also played in 69 games with the Hurricanes’ AHL affiliate in Albany, scoring six goals and 29 assists for 35 points. Rodney appeared in eight games with the Hurricanes last season, scoring two assists. He also played in 58 games with Albany, scoring three goals and 33 assists for 36 points.

These aren’t bad depth signings for the Hurricanes. Carson and Rodney will likely spend most of next season in the minors given the team’s depth on defense for next season, but both could see some action if injuries start to mount. They both could earn regular spots on the team over the next couple of seasons with their fine defensive play if they are given the chance.

Flames Acquire Defenseman Seabrook from Capitals

The Calgary Flames have acquired prospect defenseman Keith Seabrook from the Washington Capitals in exchange for future considerations. Shortly after making the deal, the Flames signed the young defenseman to an entry-level contract. Seabrook played 64 games last season with Calgary of the WHL, his junior team, scoring 15 goals and 40 assists for 55 points and 58 penalty minutes. Not a bad move for the Flames, as Seabrook has the potential to become am offensive-minded defenseman with a physical edge in the NHL. I’m a bit puzzled as to why the Capitals only acquired future considerations for Seabrook, but I’m sure they had their reasons. However, if he develops into a top-four defenseman or better in the NHL, the Capitals are going to regret letting him go for so little.

Kings Re-Sign Defenseman Johnson to Two-Year Deal

The Los Angeles Kings have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Jack Johnson to a two-year contract worth $2.85 million. The deal averages out to $1.425 million per season. In 41 games last season with the Kings, Johnson scored six goals and five assists for 11 points and 46 penalty minutes. He missed the first 41 games of last season with a shoulder injury. In 120 career games, all with the Kings, he has nine goals and 13 assists for 22 points and 140 penalty minutes. This is a great signing for the Kings, as Johnson has great offensive skill and potential, especially on the power play, and plays with plenty of toughness. He is very affordable at $1.425 per season and is poised to have a break-out season within the next two years. If he does, look for the Kings to try to lock him up long-term two years from now.

Wild Sign Goalie Dubielewicz, Add Forwards DiSalvatore and Milroy

The Minnesota Wild have announced that they have signed goaltender Wade Dubielewicz and right wings Jon DiSalvatore and Duncan Milroy to one-year contracts. Terms of the three deals were not disclosed. Dubielewicz appeared in only three games last season with the Columbus Blue Jackets, posting a 1-2-0 record with a 3.55 GAA and a .870 save percentage. He spent most of last season playing in the KHL with Kazan prior to playing with the Blue Jackets. In 40 career games with the Blue Jackets and New York Islanders, he has a 17-15-1 record with a career 2.63 GAA and a .916 save percentage. DiSalvatore did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 76 games with the Lowell Devils of the AHL, scoring 20 goals and 33 assists for 53 points. Milroy played in 49 games last with Ingolstadt of the German league, scoring 14 goals and 34 assists for 48 points.

Dubielewicz is a decent back-up goalie signing if Niklas Backstrom or Josh Harding should be sidelined a lengthy period of time with an injury or if the team decides it wants to trade Harding to bring in some scoring depth. DiSalvatore and Milroy are really just depth signings for the Wild. DiSalvatore has been a very steady scorer the last several seasons at the AHL and should be a great scorer for the Wild’s AHL affiliate in Houston, but has not been able to crack the NHL full-time. If he plays for the Wild next season, it will likely be on the fourth line. Milroy has also been a steady scorer at the AHL level, but not been able to jump to the NHL full-time. He will likely spend most of next season in Houston, providing the team with plenty of offensive depth.

Thrashers Re-Sign Lehman, Lewis, and Stapleton

The Atlanta Thrashers have announced that they have re-signed defensemen Scott Lehman and Grant Lewis and center Tim Stapleton to new contract. Exact length and financial terms of their deals were not disclosed. Lehman played on only one game last season with the Thrashers, scoring no points. He also appeared in 50 games with the Thrashers’ AHL affiliate in Chicago, scoring two goals and three assists for five points and 86 penalty minutes. Lewis played in only one game for the Thrashers last season, scoring no points. He also played in 54 games for Chicago of the AHL, scoring 22 assists. The Thrashers acquired Stapleton from the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 1 with Pavel Kubina in exchange for Garnet Exelby and Colin Stuart. In four games with the Maple Leafs last season, Stapleton scored one goal. He also played in 70 games with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, scoring 28 goals and 51 assists for 79 points.

These are nothing more than depth signings for the Thrashers. Lehman, who will likely spend most of next season in the minors, has decent size and plays with plenty of toughness. If the Thrashers give him a chance, he could develop into a decent physical, depth defenseman. Lewis will likely spend most of next season in the minors as well, giving the Chicago Wolves plenty of defensive depth and experience. Stapleton has the skills to develop into a top-nine forward at the NHL level, as long as the Thrashers give him a chance to do so.

Devils Sign Defenseman Murphy to One-Year Contract

The New Jersey Devils have added some depth to their defense by signing defenseman Cory Murphy to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Murphy played in 32 games last season with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers after being claimed off waivers by the Lightning from the Panthers in January, scoring five goals and 11 assists for 16 points. He missed a combined total of 42 games last season with a shoulder injury and a broken foot. In 79 career games with the Lightning and Panthers, he has seven goals and 26 assists for 33 points. Not a bad signing for the Devils, as Murphy has lots of offensive skill on the blueline, especially on the power play. Despite being on a two-way contract, I think Murphy will probably spend most of the season with the Devils as a top-six defenseman.

Rangers and Avalanche Swap Minor-League Defensemen

The New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche have swapped minor-league defenseman, with the Rangers acquiring Nigel Williams in exchange for Brian Fahey. Williams appeared in 70 games last season for the Lake Erie Monsters of the AHL, scoring seven goals and 14 assists for 21 points and 55 penalty minutes. Fahey played in 66 games for Hartford of the AHL last season, scoring four goals and 20 assists for 24 points and 67 penalty minutes. This is a pretty even trade for both teams, as Williams and Fahey are both offensive-minded defensemen who play with some toughness. Both players will probably start next season in the minors, but could see time with their respected teams if injuries begin to mount.

Sharks Re-Sign Vesce, Sign Four Others to One-Year Deals

The San Jose Sharks have added several depth players to their team by re-signing center Ryan Vesce to a one-year contract and signing right wing Jed Ortmeyer, center Dwight Helminen, and defensemen Joe Callahan and Danny Groulx to one-year contracts. Terms of all five deals were not disclosed. Vesce played in 10 games last season with the Sharks, scoring no points. He also appeared in 67 games with the Sharks’ AHL affiliate in Worcester, scoring 24 goals and 47 assists for 71 points. Ortmeyer played in only two games last season with the Nashville Predators, scoring no points. He also appeared in 55 games with the Predators’ AHL affiliate in Milwaukee, scoring 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points. He also missed 24 games last fall with a knee injury. In 23 games last season with the Carolina Hurricanes, Helminen scored one goal and one assist for two points. He also played in 54 games with the Hurricanes’ AHL affiliate in Albany, scoring 15 goals and 15 assists for 30 points. Callahan appeared in 18 games with the New York Islanders last season, scoring two assists. He also played in 56 games with the Islanders’ AHL affiliate in Bridgeport, scoring four goals and nine assists for 13 points. Groulx played in 80 games for Rockford of the AHL last season, scoring six goals and 34 assists for 40 points and 58 penalty minutes. He has never appeared in an NHL game.

These are all really just depth signings for the Sharks. Vesce gives the team lots of offensive depth for their minor league team, and will likely spend most of next season in Worcester. Ortmeyer gives the Sharks plenty of offensive fourth line depth on the wing. Helminen gives the Sharks plenty of depth at center for the fourth line, as well as plenty of scoring depth for Worcester if he should spend most of the season there. Callahan could see time on the Sharks next season as a sixth or seventh depth defenseman if he makes the team at training camp or if there are any injuries. With Groulx being 28-years-old and never having played in the NHL will probably keep him in the minors for the duration of the 2009-10 season. However, his toughness and offensive skill on the blueline should help keep Worcester competitive defensively in the AHL next season.

Lightning Re-Sign Forwards Jones and Tukonen

The Tampa Bay Lightning have announced that they have re-signed center Blair Jones and right wing Lauri Tukonen to new contracts. Exact length and financial terms of their contracts were not disclosed. Jones did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 80 games with the Lightning’s AHL affiliate in Norfolk, scoring 20 goals and 34 assists for 54 points. Tukonen appeared in 35 games last season with Lukko and Ilves of the Finnish League, scoring eight goals and 13 assists for 21 points. The Lightning acquired the Finnish forward from the Dallas Stars last November in exchange for defenseman Andrew Hutchinson. These aren’t bad depth signings for the Lightning. Jones has the potential to become a top-nine scoring forward and could possibly make the team next season. If he does, he will likely center the third or fourth line. Tukonen doesn’t have bad offensive skill and could be a fourth line forward next season if he makes the Lightning.

Coyotes Re-Sign Defenseman Yandle to Two-Year Deal

The Phoenix Coyotes have locked-up one of their top defensive prospects by signing defenseman Keith Yandle to a two-year contract worth $2.4 million. The deal averages out to $1.2 million per season. In 69 games last season with the Coyotes, he scored four goals and 26 assists for 30 points. This is a great signing for the Coyotes, as Yandle has the potential to become a top-four defenseman in the NHL. He has plenty of offensive skill, is great on the power play, and plays with a little bit of toughness. It would not surprise me if the Coyotes sign Yandle to a long-term contract after his current one expires in two years.

Oilers Re-Sign Goalie Dubnyk, Sign Defenseman Arsene

The Edmonton Oilers have announced that they have re-signed goaltender Devan Dubnyk to a one-year contract and have also signed defenseman Dean Arsene to a contract. Financial terms of Dubnyk’s contract were not disclosed, while exact length and financial terms of Arsene’s contract were not released. Dubnyk, who has yet to appear in an NHL game, played in 62 games last season with the Oilers’ AHL affiliate in Springfield, posting an 18-41-2 record with a 2.97 GAA and a .906 save percentage. Arsene, who also has yet to appear in an NHL game, played in 46 games last season with the Washington Capital’s AHL affiliate in Hershey, scoring one goal and 10 assists for 11 points and 99 penalty minutes. These are really nothing more than depth signings for the Oilers. Dubnyk was not very impressive last year for Springfield and was likely retained as a depth goalie for that team. Arsene will bring plenty of toughness and defensive depth to Springfield next season, but likely won’t see any NHL action given the Oilers’ depth on defense.

Predators Sign Forward Olvecky to One-Year Contract

The Nashville Predators have announced that they have signed left wing Peter Olvecky to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. In 31 games last season with the Minnesota Wild, Olvecky scored two goals and five assists for seven points. He also appeared in 41 games with the Wild’s AHL affiliate in Houston, scoring six goals and 17 assists for 23 points. This is not a bad depth signing for the Predators, as Olvecky has the skills to become a top-nine forward in the NHL. He gives the team plenty of offensive depth and some skill on the power play and penalty kill.

Flames Claim Dawes Off Waivers; Sign Him to Two-Year Deal

The Calgary Flames added some offensive depth to their team by claiming left wing Nigel Dawes off waivers from the Phoenix Coyotes. Then just days later, the Flames signed him to a two-year contract worth $1.7 million. The deal averages out to $850,000 per season. By signing him, the Flames avoid arbitration with the young forward, which he elected to while still with the Coyotes. Dawes appeared in 64 games last season with the New York Rangers and Phoenix Coyotes after being traded to the Coyotes at the 2009 trade deadline with Petr Prucha and Dmitri Kalinin in exchange for Derek Morris. Dawes scored 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points. In 133 career games with the Rangers and Coyotes, he has 25 goals and 26 assists for 51 points. These are great moves by the Flames in claiming Dawes off waivers and then signing him. He has good goal scoring potential and could become a top-six forward if he can increase his production. This is also a very affordable singing for the Flames, who are currently very close to the salary cap ceiling.

Thrashers Re-Sign Forward Armstrong to Two-Year Contract

The Atlanta Thrashers have avoided arbitration with right wing Colby Armstrong by signing him to a two-year contract worth $2.4 million. The deal averages out to $1.2 million per season. In all 82 games last season with the Thrashers, Armstrong scored 22 goals and 18 assists for 40 points and 75 penalty minutes. In 281 career games with the Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins, he has 63 goals and 86 assists for 149 points and 256 penalty minutes. This is a decent signing for the Thrashers, as Armstrong brings plenty of offensive and goal-scoring depth and some toughness to the team. If he can repeat his success of 2008-09 in 2009-10, he will be a very affordable signing for the Thrashers. Plus, if Armstrong’s production continues to improve over the next two seasons, the team could retain him for longer than two years.

Capitals Re-Sign Defenseman Schultz to One-Year Deal

The Washington Capitals have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Jeff Schultz to a one-year contract worth $715,000. In 64 games last season with the Capitals, he scored one goal and 11 assists for 12 points. In 174 career games, all with the Capitals, he has six goals and 27 assists for 33 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Capitals, as Schultz has good size and decent defensive skills. He will likely continue to play his role as a top-six defenseman for the team next season.

Wild Re-Sign Four Players to New Contracts

The Minnesota Wild have retained several depth players by re-signing defenseman Clayton Stoner, right wing Danny Irmen, and left wings Benoit Pouliot and Robbie Earl to new contracts. Exact length and financial terms of the deals were not disclosed. Stoner did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 63 games with the Wild’s AHL affiliate in Houston, scoring two goals and 22 assists for 24 points and 81 penalty minutes. Irmen did not play in any NHL games last season as well, instead playing in 69 games with Houston, scoring seven goals and 11 assists for 18 points. Pouliot played in 37 games last season with the Wild, scoring five goals and six assists for 11 points. He also appeared in 30 games with Houston, scoring nine goals and 15 assists for 24 points. Earl did not play in any NHL games last season, instead splitting 2008-09 with Houston and the Toronto Marlies, scoring six goals and 13 assists for 19 points in 69 games. The Wild acquired the 24-year-old forward from the Toronto Maple Leafs in January for forward Ryan Hamilton.

These are really just depth signings for the Wild. Stoner plays with lots of toughness and has some offensive potential. He will likely spend most of next season in the minors, but could see some NHL action if there is an injury to the Wild’s blueline. Irmen has okay offensive potential and could become a top-nine forward in the league if given the chance. He likely won’t see much NHL action next season and will probably spend most of it in the minors. Pouliot has lots of offensive skill and could become a top-six forward for the Wild. He could start next season on the fourth line, and if he is impressive enough early in the season, could climb into a permanent top-nine role. Earl is likely to spend most of next season in the minors, where he will provide plenty of offensive depth for Houston.

Sharks Sign Forward Scott Nichol to One-Year Contract

The San Jose Sharks have added some toughness to their roster by signing center Scott Nichol to a one-year contract worth $750,000. In 43 games last season with the Nashville Predators, Nichol scored four goals and six assists for 10 points and 41 penalty minutes. He missed 38 games last season with a concussion. In 417 career games with the Predators, Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames, and Chicago Blackhawks, he has 44 goals and 48 assists for 92 points and 686 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Sharks, as Nichol brings lots of toughness and grit to the team, as well as skill to the penalty kill. He will likely center the checking line for the team next season.

Capitals Re-Sign Four Players to New Contracts

The Washington Capitals have retained several depth players by signing defenseman Shaone Morrisonn, right wing Eric Fehr, left wing Chris Bourque, and center Kyle Wilson to one-year contracts. Morrisonn’s contract is worth $1.975 million, Fehr’s is worth $771,750, while the financial terms of Bourque’s and Wilson’s contracts were not disclosed. In 72 games last season with the Capitals, Morrisonn scored three goals and 10 assists for 13 points and 77 penalty minutes. In 350 career games with the Capitals and Boston Bruins, he has nine goals and 49 assists for 58 points and 355 penalty minutes. Fehr appeared in 61 games last season with the Capitals, scoring 12 goals and 13 assists for 25 points. Bourque played in only eight games for the team last season, scoring one goal. He also appeared in 69 games with the Capitals’ AHL affiliate in Hershey, scoring 21 goals and 52 assists for 73 points. Wilson did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 80 games with Hershey, scoring 28 goals and 30 assists for 58 points. He has yet to appear in an NHL game.

These aren’t bad signings for the Capitals. Morrisonn is a very mobile defensive defenseman who plays with some toughness. His defensive skills will make him an important top-four blueliner for the Capitals next season. Fehr brings plenty of offensive and scoring depth to the team’s forward lines. His improved offensive play last season should get him a top-nine role next season. Bourque possesses a wealth of goal-scoring and offensive talent and could likely become a top-six forward in the NHL. At 5’9” and 173 lbs., he will probably always be criticized for not being big enough, but that likely won’t stop Bourque from becoming a scoring forward in the NHL. Wilson has the skills to become a top-six forward in the NHL, but given the Capitals’ depth on offense for next season, he will likely spend most of it in the minors unless the team becomes ravaged with injuries.

Coyotes Sign Forward Korpikoski to Two-Year Deal

Just days after acquiring left wing Lauri Korpikoski from the New York Rangers for right wing Enver Lisin, the Phoenix Coyotes have signed the 23-year-old Finn to a two-year contract worth $1.4 million. The deal averages out to $700,000 per season. In 68 games last season with the Rangers, his first full season in the NHL, Korpikoski scored six goals and eight assists for 14 points. This is a good signing for the Coyotes, as Korpikoski possesses plenty of speed and has good skill at handling the puck. He has the potential to become a top-six scoring forward in the NHL, so the Coyotes have landed another talented young forward to help rebuild the team.

Thrashers Re-Sign Goaltender Kari Lehtonen

The Atlanta Thrashers have announced that they have re-signed goaltender Kari Lehtonen to a one-year contract worth $3 million. In 46 games last season with the Thrashers, he posted a 19-22-3 record, three shutouts, a 3.06 GAA, and a .911 save percentage. In 204 career games, all with the Thrashers, he has a record of 94-83-17, 14 shutouts, a 2.87 GAA, and a .912 save percentage. Not a bad signing for the Thrashers, as they appear keen to stick with Lehtonen for another season despite the rumors that they have been looking to trade the Finnish netminder. He hasn’t been able to play up to his lofty expectations in Atlanta and has suffered several injuries over the past few years, but he is still a solid starter when healthy and still has yet to hit his potential.

Sabres Re-Sign Forward Kaleta to One-Year Contract

The Buffalo Sabres have announced that they have re-signed right wing Patrick Kaleta to a one-year contract worth $552,500. Last season with the Sabres, Kaleta appeared in 51 games, scoring four goals and five assists for nine points and 89 penalty minutes. In 98 career games, all with the Sabres, he has seven goals and nine assists for 16 points and 151 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the team, as Kaleta is a very physical player who plays with lots of grit. It looks as if he and Adam Mair could take over the enforcer duties for next season, as Andrew Peters is still an unsigned free agent and may not be retained by the team.

Hurricanes Add Defensemen Alberts & Fitzgerald, Re-Sign Angelidis

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced that they have signed defensemen Andrew Alberts to a two-year contract worth $2.1 million and Zach Fitzgerald to a one-year, two-way contract. The team also announced the re-signing left wing Mike Angelidis to a one-year, two-way contract. Alberts’ deal averages out to $1.05 million per season, while financial terms of Fitzgerald’s and Angelidis’ contracts were not disclosed. Alberts was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers last October by the Boston Bruins in exchange for Ned Lukacevic and a conditional 2009 draft pick. In 79 games last season with the Flyers, Alberts scored one goal and 12 assists for 13 points and 61 penalty minutes. In 263 career games, he has two goals and 30 assists for 32 points and 292 penalty minutes. Fitzgerald appeared in 56 games last season for the Manitoba Moose of the AHL, scoring eight assists ad 208 penalty minutes. He played in one NHL game for the Vancouver Canucks in 2007-08, scoring no points. Angelidis played in 67 games last season for the Hurricanes’ AHL affiliate in Albany, scoring 15 goals and 10 assists for 25 points and 142 penalty minutes. He has yet to appear in an NHL game.

The Alberts signing is not a bad one for the Hurricanes, as he brings plenty of toughness and grit to their defense. He will likely be a sixth of seventh defenseman for the team next season. Fitzgerald and Angelidis are nothing more than depth signings for the team. They will likely spend all of next season in the minors, where they will provide plenty of toughness at their respected positions for Albany of the AHL.

Canadiens Re-Sign Forward Latendresse & Defenseman Belle

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have re-signed left wing Guillaume Latendresse to a one-year contract worth $803,000 and defenseman Shawn Belle to a one-year, two-way contract. Financial terms of Belle’s deal were not disclosed. In 56 games last season for the Canadiens, Latendresse scored 14 goals and 12 assists for 26 points. In 209 career games, all with the Canadiens, he has 46 goals and 36 assists for 82 points. Belle did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 60 games with the Canadiens’ AHL affiliate in Hamilton, scoring three goals and 10 assists for 13 points and 93 penalty minutes. The Latendresse signing is a decent one for the team, as he possesses plenty of offensive skill, especially on the power play, and is a decent passer. As a top-nine forward for the Canadiens next season, Latendresse will be an effective player. The Belle signing is really nothing more than a depth move, though he does provide plenty of toughness on defense. The Canadiens already have sufficient depth on their defense for next season, so Belle will likely spend another season in the minors.

Penguins Re-Sign Forward Wallace & Defenseman Lovejoy

The Pittsburgh Penguins have announced that they have re-signed right wing Tim Wallace to a two-year contract and defenseman Ben Lovejoy to a one-year contract. Terms of both deals were not disclosed. Wallace appeared in 16 games last season with the Penguins, scoring two assists. He also played in 58 games for the Penguins’ AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, scoring 11 goals and eight assists for 19 points. Lovejoy appeared in two games with the Penguins last season, his first in the NHL, scoring no points. He also played in 76 games for Wilkes/Barre-Scranton, scoring seven goals and 24 assists for 31 points and 84 penalty minutes. These are not bad depth signings for the Penguins, as both players have a chance to make the team next season. Wallace gives the team plenty of offensive depth and could likely play on the fourth line next season. Lovejoy has good size and toughness and has plenty of offensive potential. Given the depth on the Penguins’ defense next season, he could be end up being the seventh defenseman unless there is an injury at some point.

Rangers Re-Sign Defenseman Corey Potter

The New York Rangers have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Corey Potter to a new contract. Exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. In five games last season with the Rangers, his first in the NHL, Potter scored one goal and one assist for two points. He also played in 67 games with the Rangers’ AHL affiliate in Hartford last season, scoring 10 goals and 22 assists for 32 points and 82 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Rangers, as Potter is a big defenseman who plays with toughness and has offensive potential from the back end. If the Rangers give him a chance, he could develop into a top-six defenseman with the team.

Hurricanes Sign Forward Kostopolous to Three-Year Deal

The Carolina Hurricanes have added some grit to their forward lines by signing right wing Tom Kostopolous to a three-year contract worth $2.75 million. The deal averages out to $916,000 per season. Last season with the Montreal Canadiens, Kostopolous appeared in 78 games, scoring eight goals and 14 assists for 22 points and 106 penalty minutes. In 376 career games with the Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings, he has 40 goals and 65 assists for 105 points and 468 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Hurricanes, as Kostopolous brings lots of grit and toughness to the checking line. He’s decent on the penalty kill and can chip in offensively from time to time, making him an effective forward. Plus, at $916,000 per season, he is a very affordable pickup for the Hurricanes for the next three years.

Flames Sign Defenseman Staffan Kronwall

The Calgary Flames have announced that they have signed defenseman Staffan Kronwall. Exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. He appeared in three games last season with the Washington Capitals, scoring no points. He was claimed off waivers by the Capitals from the Toronto Maple Leafs in February. Kronwall also played in 59 games with the Hershey Bears and Toronto Marlies of the AHL, scoring nine goals and 25 assists for 34 points. This is an okay depth signing for the Flames, as Kronwall has good size and is a very mobile defenseman. He does has some offensive upside, but not enough to make a huge impact at the NHL level. He will likely be a sixth or seventh defenseman for the Flames next season.

Blue Jackets Sign Defenseman Mathieu Roy to One-Year Deal

The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that they have signed defenseman Mathieu Roy to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Roy did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 59 games with the Oilers’ AHL affiliate in Springfield, scoring two goals and 15 assists for 17 points and 120 penalty minutes. He last played in the NHL during the 2007-08 season. Not a bad depth move for the Blue Jackets, as Roy is a big, tough defenseman who plays with lots of grit. However, he is not very mobile and does not have a lot of offensive potential, so he will likely be a sixth of seventh depth defenseman for the team next season when he’s not in the minors.

Predators Re-Sign Maki, Add Forward Guite

The Nashville Predators have announced that they have re-signed right wing Ryan Maki to a one-year, two-way contract and signed center Ben Guite to a one-year, two-way contract as well. Financial terms of both their deals were not disclosed. Maki did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 65 games with the Predators’ AHL affiliate in Milwaukee, scoring 12 goals and 13 assists for 25 points. He has yet to play in the NHL. Guite appeared in 50 games last season for the Colorado Avalanche, scoring five goals and seven assists for 12 points. In 169 career games with the Avalanche and Boston Bruins, he has 19 goals and 26 assists for 45 points. Both Guite and Maki are really nothing more than depth signings for the Predators. Maki has the potential to become a checking line forward and could likely do so down the road for the Predators. Guite will give the team plenty of gritty, offensive depth on either the third or fourth lines next season.

Coyotes Acquire Korpikoski from Rangers for Lisin

The Phoenix Coyotes have added some young scoring depth to their roster by acquiring left wing Lauri Korpikoski from the New York Rangers in exchange for right wing Enver Lisin. In 68 games last season with the Rangers, also his first full season in the NHL, Korpikoski scored six goals and eight assists for 14 points. Lisin appeared in 48 games last season with the Coyotes, scoring 13 goals and eight assists for 21 points. He also played in 10 games with the Coyotes’ AHL affiliate in San Antonio in 2008-09, scoring two goals and four assists for six points. Not a bad swap for the Coyotes, as Korpikoski has the offensive potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL. He also possesses plenty of speed and puck handling skills. Lisin has the potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL as well, but the Rangers need to give him more of a chance to prove himself than the Coyotes did. Still, Lisin has decent speed and can score goals when he’s on the ice. He should be a decent pickup for the Rangers.

Rangers’ Re-Sign Forward Callahan to Two-Year Contract

The New York Rangers have announced that they have re-signed right wing Ryan Callahan to a two-year contract worth $4.6 million, avoiding arbitration with the young winger. The deal averages out to $2.3 million per season. In 81 games last season with the Rangers, Callahan scored 22 goals and 18 assists for 40 points. In 147 career games, all with the Rangers, he has 34 goals and 25 assists for 59 points. This is a good signing for the Rangers, as Callahan is quickly emerging as one the team’s top young forwards. He’s also a good two-way player who plays very hard on the ice. If Callahan can continue to better his offensive skills, he could become a top-six forward with the team over the next two years.

Oilers Sign Forward Minard & Defenseman Nickerson

The Edmonton Oilers added a couple of depth players last Monday night by signing left wing Chris Minard and defenseman Matt Nickerson to contracts. Minard signed a one-year deal worth $500,000, while the exact length and financial terms of Nickerson’s deal was not disclosed. In 20 games last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Minard scored one goal and two assists for three points while winning the Stanley Cup with the team. He also appeared in 54 games with the Penguins’ AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, scoring 34 goals and 23 assists for 57 points. Nickerson appeared in 40 games last season with Ilves of the Finnish League, scoring one goal and one assist for two points and 156 penalty minutes. He has never played in an NHL game. Minard is not a bad depth signing for the Oilers, as he plays real hard every shift he’s on the ice. He’s also been a proven scorer at the AHL level, so if he gets sent to the minors, Minard will give the Oilers’ AHL affiliate plenty of scoring depth. The Nickerson signing is really just to add gritty, defensive depth to the Oilers’ AHL team in Springfield. He likely won’t see any NHL action next season.

Kings Sign Forward Segal to Two-Year Contract

The Los Angeles Kings have announced that they have signed right wing Brandon Segal to a two-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Segal appeared in two games with the Tampa Bay Lightning last season, his first in the NHL, scoring no points. He also played in 69 games with the Lightning’s AHL affiliate in Norfolk, scoring 26 goals and 26 assists for 52 points and 95 penalty minutes. This is not a bad depth signing for the Kings, as Segal has the potential to become a top-nine forward in the NHL. He has gradually been improving at the AHL level, and could be poised to jump to the NHL within the next two seasons. If he does, he will likely be on the Kings’ fourth line providing plenty of toughness and offensive depth.

Capitals Re-Sign Forward Gordon to One-Year Contract

The Washington Capitals have announced that they have re-signed center Boyd Gordon to a one-year contract worth $761,000. Gordon appeared in 63 games last season for the Capitals, scoring five goals and nine assists for 14 points. In 267 career games, all with the Capitals, he has 20 goals and 46 assists for 66 points. Not a bad signing for the Capitals, as Gordon brings plenty of offensive skill and depth to the forward lines. Given the team’s depth at center for next season, Gordon will likely be the fourth line center. Brooks Laich and Brendan Morrison will compete for the second line center at training camp, likely Laich, while the other will center the third line, likely Morrison. Michael Nylander could also end up as the second or third line center depending on what the Capitals decide to do with him this summer. If they decide he does not fit into their future plans, they will probably attempt to trade him first. If they can find no takers, and they have not thus far, they could demote him to the minors or assign him to a European team to trim down some salary. However, the Capitals could also wait until training camp in September and see how Nylander performs there before making a decision on what to do with the veteran center.

Bruins Sign Forwards Larman & Whitfield to One-Year Deals

The Boston Bruins added a couple of depth forwards to their roster last Monday by signing centers Drew Larman and Trent Whitfield to one-year contracts. Terms of their deals were not disclosed. Larman did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 61 games for the Florida Panthers’ AHL affiliate in Rochester, scoring 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points. In 22 career NHL games, all with the Panthers over two seasons, he has two goals and one assist for three points. Whitfield appeared in three games last season for the St. Louis Blues, scoring one assist. He also played in 69 games with the Blues’ AHL affiliate in Peoria, scoring 20 goals and 30 assists for 50 points. In 177 career NHL games with the Blues, Washington Capitals, and New York Rangers, Whitfield had 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points.

These are really just depth signings for the Bruins. Larman has potential to become a checking line forward, but given the depth on the Bruins for next season and beyond, could have a hard time cracking the lineup beyond the fourth line. Whitfield has enjoyed plenty of success at the AHL level the past several seasons, but isn’t much more than a third or fourth line forward in the NHL. He will provide lots of offensive depth and skill to the AHL’s Providence Bruins next season. If Whitfield does play for the Bruins at any time next season, he will give them sufficient offensive and veteran depth from the checking lines.

Thrashers Sign Forward Stewart & Defenseman Welch

The Atlanta Thrashers have announced that they have signed right wing Anthony Stewart and defenseman Noah Welch to contracts. The exact length and financial terms of the deals were not disclosed. Stewart played in 59 games for the Florida Panthers last season, scoring two goals and five assists for seven points. In 105 career games, he has four goals and eight assists for 12 points. He was not tendered a qualifying offer by the Panthers just prior to July 1, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent. Welch split last season between the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning after being dealt to the Lightning with a third round pick in the 2009 draft for Steve Eminger. In 40 games with the Panthers and Lightning, Welch scored one goal and one assist for two points. He also appeared in seven games with the Panthers’ AHL affiliate in Rochester, scoring three assists.

Stewart is not a bad signing for the Thrashers, though he needs to prove himself at the NHL level. Once one of the top prospects in the Panthers’ system, he has not been able to play up to his potential at the pro level, leaving him nothing more than a third line forward, although the Panthers probably could have given him more of a shot to prove himself. Stewart has plenty of untapped offensive potential and this could be a great signing for the Thrashers if he can get on his game. Perhaps the change of scenery could be enough to jumpstart Stewart’s career and turn him into the power forward he was once projected to become. Welch is really just a depth signing for the Thrashers. He will likely be the sixth or seventh defenseman on the team next season given their depth on defense.

Blackhawks Sign Forward Mark Cullen to One-Year Contract

The Chicago Blackhawks have announced that they have signed center Mark Cullen to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. This will be his second stint with the Blackhawks organization. Cullen did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 56 games with the Manitoba Moose of the AHL, scoring 14 goals and 25 assists for 39 points. He has appeared in 32 career NHL games with the Blackhawks and Philadelphia Flyers, scoring seven goals and nine assists for 16 points. This is really just a depth signing for the Blackhawks, although it is not a bad one. Given the team’s depth on offense for next season, Cullen likely will spend a good chunk of the season in the minors, but if he is recalled by the team, he will likely play on the fourth line, giving the Blackhawks plenty of offensive depth.

2009 NHL Arbitration

The following 20 NHL players have elected to file for salary arbitration this summer. The arbitration hearing begin on July 20 in Toronto and run until July 31. Arbitrators are only allowed to hand out one to two year deals and their decisions must be made within 48 hours of the hearing. Teams then have 48 hours to accept or decline the arbitrator's decision. If a team has more than one player filing for arbitration, that team has 48 hours from their last player's hearing to decide if they want to accept or decline the arbitrator's decision. If a team declines an arbitrator's decision, the player becomes an unrestricted free agent. The following players are still scheduled for arbitration:

Detroit Red Wings
Jiri Hudler - July 30

New York Rangers
Nikolai Zherdev - July 31

Phoenix Coyotes
Daniel Winnik - Awarded one-year contract in arbitration (no terms disclosed)

Vancouver Canucks
Kyle Wellwood - Awarded one-year contract worth $1.2 million in arbitration

Washington Capitals
Milan Jurcina - Awarded one-year contract worth $1.375 million in arbitration


The following players have re-signed with their teams prior to their arbitration hearings:

Anaheim Ducks
James Wisniewski - 1 year, $2.75 million (7/13)

Atlanta Thrashers
Colby Armstrong - 2 years, $2.4 million (7/16)

Boston Bruins
Matt Hunwick - 2 years, $2.9 million (7/20)

Buffalo Sabres
Clarke McArthur - 1 year, $552,500 (7/20)

Calgary Flames
Nigel Dawes - 2 years, $1.7 million (7/20)

Carolina Hurricanes
Tuomo Ruutu - 3 years, $11.4 million (7/23)

Chicago Blackhawks
Aaron Johnson - 1 year, undisclosed (7/6)

Columbus Blue Jackets
Marc Methot - 2 years, undisclosed (7/22)

Edmonton Oilers
Denis Grebeshkov - 1 year, $3.15 million (7/21)

Minnesota Wild
Kyle Brodziak - 3 years, undisclosed (7/23)
Josh Harding - 1 year, $1.1 million (7/29)

Montreal Canadiens
Tomas Plekanec - 1 year, $2.75 million (7/21)

New Jersey Devils
Travis Zajac - 4 years, $15.55 million (7/22)

New York Islanders
Nate Thompson - 1 year, two-way contract, undisclosed (7/25)

New York Rangers
Ryan Callahan - 2 years, $4.6 million (7/13)

Tampa Bay Lightning
Matt Smaby - 2 years, $1.05 million (7/26)

Ducks Re-Sign Defenseman Wisniewski to One-Year Contract

The Anaheim Ducks announced last Monday that they have re-signed defenseman James Wisniewski to a one-year contract worth $2.75 million, thus avoiding salary arbitration with the young defenseman. Wisniewski was one of 20 players who had filed for arbitration earlier in July. He started last season with the Chicago Blackhawks before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2009 trade deadline with forward Petri Kontiola in exchange for center Sami Pahlsson, defenseman Logan Stephanson, and a conditional fourth round pick in the 2009 Entry Draft. In 48 games with the Ducks and Blackhawks, he scored three goals and 21 assists for 24 points. Wisniewski missed the first 28 games of the 2008-09 season recovering from right knee surgery. In 185 career games with the Ducks and Blackhawks, he has 14 goals and 53 assists for 67 points and 208 penalty minutes. This is a good signing for the Ducks, as Wisniewski has lots of potential to become a top-four defenseman in the league. He has great offensive skill on the blueline, especially on the power play, and plays with lots of grit and toughness. Hopefully the Ducks can get him locked up long term next summer, as he could end up being a decent replacement for the recently traded Chris Pronger.

Predators Re-Sign Defenseman Yonkman to One-Year Deal

The Nashville Predators have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Nolan Yonkman to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Yonkman did not appear in any NHL games last season, instead playing in 61 games for the Predators’ AHL affiliate in Milwaukee. He scored three goals and seven assists for 10 points and 80 penalty minutes. Yonkman last appeared in the NHL with the Washington Capitals during the 2005-06 season. This is nothing more than a depth signing for the Predators’ and their AHL team. Yonkman is a very physical defenseman, but the fact that he hasn’t played in the NHL in four years will likely keep him in the minors all of next season.

Sabres Sign Defenseman Joe DiPenta to One-Year Contract

The Buffalo Sabres added some veteran depth to their blueline last weekend by signing defenseman Joe DiPenta to a one-year contract worth $550,000. DiPenta played in 47 games with Vastra Frolunda of the Swedish Elite League, scoring one goal and five assists for six points and 71 penalty minutes. He last played in the NHL during the 2007-08 season with the Anaheim Ducks. In 174 career NHL games with the Ducks and Atlanta Thrashers, he has six goals and 17 assists for 23 points and 110 penalty minutes. He won the Stanley Cup with the Ducks in 2007. Not a bad signing for the Sabres, as they were in need of a little bit more veteran experience on the blueline. DiPenta will bring the team lots of toughness and defensive skill as a sixth or seventh defenseman next season.

Flames Sign Tough-Guy Forward McGrattan to One-Year Deal

The Calgary Flames added some toughness to their line-up last weekend by signing right wing Brian McGrattan to a one-year contract worth $550,000. McGrattan played in only five games last season with the Phoenix Coyotes, scoring no points and 22 penalty minutes. He missed considerable time last season after entering the NHL’s substance abuse program. In 148 career games with the Coyotes and Ottawa Senators, he has two goals and eight assists for 10 points and 309 penalty minutes. McGrattan is one of the toughest forwards in the league today and brings lots of toughness and physicality to the Flames, but I don’t think this is such a wise signing for the team. McGrattan has no offensive upside whatsoever and he takes lots of bad penalties. The Flames have plenty of other physical forwards who are more skillful than McGrattan who can also stick up for their teammates. As a result, he could end up spending most of next season in the minors.

Canadiens Re-Sign Forward Chipchura for One Year

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have re-signed center Kyle Chipchura to a one-year contract worth $500,000. In 13 games last season with the Canadiens, Chipchura scored three assists. He also appeared in 51 games for the Canadiens’ AHL affiliate in Hamilton, scoring 14 goals and 21 assists for 35 points and 65 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Canadiens, as Chipchura has good two-way abilities, decent offensive skill, and plays with a physical edge. He will likely make the Canadiens full time next season, centering either the third or fourth line.

Ducks Sign Defenseman McCarthy to One-Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks added some depth to their blueline last weekend by signing defenseman Steve McCarthy to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. McCarthy appeared in 18 games last season with Salavat Yulaev Ufa of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), scoring no points. He last played in the NHL with the Atlanta Thrashers during the 2007-08 season. In 302 career NHL games with the Thrashers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Vancouver Canucks, he has 17 goals and 38 assists for 55 points and 168 penalty minutes. Not a bad depth signing for the Ducks, as McCarthy has plenty of offensive skill on the blueline and is a decent passer. He could play on the third defensive pairing next season, but could also be a seventh defenseman depending on how he and other defensive prospects perform for the Ducks at training camp in September.

Panthers Sign Forward Graham Mink to Two-Year Deal

The Florida Panthers have announced that they have signed right wing Graham Mink to a two-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Mink only appeared in two games last season for the Washington Capitals, scoring no points. He also played in 68 games last season with the Capitals’ AHL affiliate in Hershey, scoring 32 goals and 27 assists for 59 points and 101 penalty minutes. Mink has enjoyed some success at the AHL level for the past several seasons, so he was likely brought in by the Panthers to add some scoring depth to their AHL affiliate in Rochester. If he plays any games with the Panthers next season, it will likely be on the fourth line and only if the team is suffering from a slew of injuries.

Canadiens Sign Forward Travis Moen to Three-Year Contract

The Montreal Canadiens continued to retool their team last weekend by signing left wing Travis Moen to a three-year contract worth $4.5 million. The deal averages out to $1.5 million per season. Moen spent most of last season with the Anaheim Ducks until he was traded to the San Jose Sharks at the 2009 trade deadline with defenseman Kent Huskins in exchange for prospects Nick Bonino and Timo Pielmeier and a conditional draft pick in the 2009 draft. In all 82 games last season with the Ducks and Sharks, he scored seven goals and nine assists for 16 points and 91 penalty minutes. In 362 games with the Ducks, Sharks, and Chicago Blackhawks, he has 29 goals and 27 assists for 56 points and 487 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Canadiens, as Moen is a very gritty forward who is very good at shutting down the opposition from the wing. He is also very effective on the penalty kill, which will be a huge boost to the team when down a man.

Senators Sign Defenseman Kinrade to One-Year Contract

The Ottawa Senators have announced that they have signed defenseman Geoff Kinrade to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Kinrade was signed to an amateur tryout late last season by the Tampa Bay Lightning, appearing in one game with the team and scoring no points. He also played in 10 games with the Norfolk Admirals of the AHL, scoring one goal and three assists for four points. Prior to signing with the Lightning, Kinrade played in 38 games for Michigan Tech of the WCHA, scoring three goals and 13 assists for 16 points. This is really just a depth signing for the Senators, as Kinrade’s lack of experience will keep him from playing in the NHL this season. If he performs well for the Senators’ AHL affiliate in Binghamton next season, he could be re-signed next summer.

Blue Jackets Re-Sign Defenseman Sigalet to Two-Year Deal

The Columbus Blue Jackets announced that they have re-signed defenseman Jonathan Sigalet to a two-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Sigalet did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 19 games with the Blue Jackets’ AHL affiliate in Syracuse, scoring five goals and six assists for 11 points. He appeared in one NHL game for the Boston Bruins during the 2006-07 season, scoring no points. This is really just a depth signing for the Blue Jackets, as Sigalet is not likely to see much NHL action next season unless the Columbus defense gets ravaged with injuries.

Avalanche Re-Sign Defenseman Kyle Cumisky

The Colorado Avalanche announced that they have re-signed defenseman Kyle Cumisky to a new contract. The exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Cumisky appeared in six games for the Avalanche last season, scoring no points. He missed 33 games last season with a shoulder injury after being recalled by the team in January. He also played in 28 games for the Lake Erie Monsters of the AHL in 2008-09, scoring five goals and 12 assists for 17 points. Not a bad signing for the Avalanche, as Cumisky is a very mobile defenseman and has decent offensive skills on the blueline. Given the team’s depth on defense for next season, it’s likely he will spend most of it in the minors unless injuries begin to mount.

Capitals Sign Forward Morrison to One-Year Deal

The Washington Capitals added some offensive depth to their roster last Friday by signing center Brendan Morrison to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million. Morrison appeared in 81 games last season with the Anaheim Ducks and Dallas Stars after being claimed off waivers by the Stars, scoring 16 goals and 15 assists for 31 points. In 755 career games with the Stars, Ducks, New Jersey Devils, and Vancouver Canucks, he has 175 goals and 330 assists for 505 points. This is an okay signing for the Capitals, as Morrison brings some much needed center ice depth to the team. Morrison brings plenty of skill to the team’s power play and is a great face-off man as well as playmaker. With Sergei Fedorov leaving to play in Russia next season and the Capitals looking to rid themselves of Michael Nylander, Morrison will likely be the second line center next season, but could drop to the third line if Nylander remains with the team. Morrison’s offensive production has been in decline for the past few seasons, but perhaps playing alongside the likes of Alex Ovechkin, Alexander Semin, Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Knuble, and Brooks Laich could give him a bit of a jumpstart offensively next season.

Penguins Sign Defenseman Jay McKee to One-Year Deal

The Pittsburgh Penguins added some veteran depth to their blueline last Friday by signing defenseman Jay McKee to a one-year contract worth $800,000. McKee had his contract bought out by the St. Louis Blues on June 29 due in large part to his injury history. He still had one more year on his old contract. In 69 games last season with the Blues, he scored one goal and seven assists for eight points. In 740 career games with the Blues and Buffalo Sabres, he has 20 goals and 95 assists for 115 points. This is a decent and affordable signing for the Penguins, as McKee brings lots of defensive depth to the blueline. He will also bring plenty of grit, veteran depth, and great shot-blocking skills to the defending Stanley Cup champions next season.

Devils Sign Goaltender Danis to One-Year Contract

The New Jersey Devils announced that they have signed goaltender Yann Danis to a one-year contract worth $550,000. Danis appeared in 31 games last season with the New York Islanders, posting a 10-17-3 record with a 2.86 GAA and a .910 save percentage. He also played in 10 games last season with the Islanders’ AHL affiliate in Bridgeport, posting a 7-3-0 record with a 2.26 GAA and a .924 save percentage. This is an okay signing for the Devils, as they were looking to sign a solid, affordable backup goaltender to play only a handful of games behind Martin Brodeur. Danis will give the Devils adequate goaltending depth, but don’t expect to see him playing a lot of games, as Brodeur is once again likely to play in almost every game of the season.

Canadiens Sign Defenseman Mara to One-Year Contract

The Montreal Canadiens continued to add veteran depth to their roster last Friday by signing defenseman Paul Mara to a one-year contract worth $1.675 million. In 76 games last season for the New York Rangers, Mara scored five goals and 16 assists for 21 points and 94 penalty minutes. In 639 career games with the Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Phoenix Coyotes, and Boston Bruins, he has 63 goals and 176 assists for 239 points and 640 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Canadiens as they continue to retool their roster with veteran players. Mara brings plenty of toughness to the team’s blueline as well as some offense, especially on the power play.

Rangers Re-Sign Forward Dane Byers

The New York Rangers announced that they have re-signed left wing Dane Byers to a new contract. Exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Byers did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in nine games with the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL, scoring four goals and three assists for seven points. He has only played in one career NHL game, scoring no points. I’m not sure why Byers only played in nine AHL games last season, but I’m guessing he sustained an injury that sidelined him for quite a bit of time. Not a bad depth signing for the Rangers, as Byers has the potential to become a top-nine forward in the NHL. He could see playing time on the fourth line next season given the Rangers’ current shortage of offensive depth, bringing plenty of gritty play to the team’s offense.

Lightning Sign Goaltender Niittymaki to One-Year Contract

The Tampa Bay Lightning added some much needed goaltending depth to their team last Friday by signing Antero Niittymaki to a one-year contract worth $600,000. There had been rumors the Philadelphia Flyers were interested in retaining the Finnish netminder, but opted to go with a brand new tandem of Ray Emery and Brian Boucher. In 32 games last season with the Flyers, Niittymaki posted a 15-8-6 with a 2.76 GAA and a .912 save percentage. This is a decent move by the Lightning, as they were in desperate need of a proven backup goalie. Niittymaki played fairly well last season as the backup for the Flyers and even jumped into the starter’s role when Martin Biron struggled at times. Niittymaki will likely be the backup to Mike Smith next season as the Lightning see Smith as their number one goalie, but the team could also opt to have both goalies share both the starting and backup duties.

Hurricanes Sign Defenseman Harrison to One-Year Deal

The Carolina Hurricanes announced that they have signed defenseman Jay Harrison to a one-year, two-way contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Harrison appeared in seven games last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs after signing as a free agent with the team on March 27, scoring one assist. Prior to signing with the Maple Leafs last season, he appeared in 41 games with EV Zug of the Swiss National League, scoring six goals and nine assists for 15 points and 96 penalty minutes. This is really just a depth move for the Hurricanes’ defense, as Harrison will likely play most of next season in the minors. If he does play with the team next season, he will bring plenty of grit and rugged play as a sixth or seventh defenseman.

Blackhawks Sign Defenseman Petiot to One-Year Contract

The Chicago Blackhawks announced that they have signed defenseman Richard Petiot to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Petiot was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning at the 2009 trade deadline by the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for goaltender Olaf Kolzig, defensemen Jamie Heward and Andy Rogers, and a fourth round pick in the 2009 Entry Draft. The move was done so the Lightning could dump some salary. In 11 games last season with the Lightning, Petiot scored three assists. He also appeared in 46 games with the Norfolk Admirals and Toronto Marlies of the AHL, scoring three goals and 11 assists for 14 points. This is merely a depth move for the Blackhawks, as they already have their defense set for next season. Petiot will likely spend most of the season in the minors unless injuries begin to mount for the Blackhawks.

Maple Leafs Sign Forward Wallin to One-Year Contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs have lured another player away from the Swedish Elite League by signing center Rickard Wallin to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Wallin makes the second Swede the Maple Leafs have signed from the Swedish League, with goalie sensation Jonas Gustavsson having signed a one-year deal on July 9. Last season in 55 games with Farjestad, Wallin scored 18 goals and 27 assists for 45 points. Wallin’s stock has risen over the past few seasons after his offensive game really began to take off in Sweden. He last played in the NHL during the 2003-04 season with the Minnesota Wild. In 19 career NHL games, all with the Wild, he has six goals and four assists for 10 points. If Wallin can produce the same numbers in the NHL that he did in the Swedish League, then this will be a great signing for the Wild. His offensive game has really improved since his last game in the NHL five years ago, so he could be an effective top-six forward for the Maple Leafs. If he has a good season in 2009-10, expect him to remain in Toronto beyond next season.

Sabres Re-Sign Forward Matt Ellis to One-Year Deal

The Buffalo Sabres announced that they have re-signed left wing Matt Ellis to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Ellis appeared in 45 games last season with the Sabres, scoring seven goals and five assists for 12 points. He also played in 12 games last season with the Sabres’ AHL affiliate in Portland, scoring two goals and two assists for four points. In 115 career NHL games with the Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, and Los Angeles Kings, he has 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Sabres, as Ellis works very hard on every shift he plays. He doesn’t score a lot of goals or put up a lot of points, but his hard work makes him a very effective two-way forward on the checking lines.

Devils Acquire Forward Sestito from Oilers

The New Jersey Devils added some grit to their team last Thursday by acquiring left wing Tim Sestito from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for a conditional draft pick in a future draft. Sestito appeared in only one game last season for the Oilers, scoring no points. He also appeared in 51 games for the Oilers’ AHL affiliate in Springfield last season, scoring five goals and three assists for eight points and 77 penalty minutes. This is likely a depth trade for the Devils, as they already have enforcers in David Clarkson and Pierre-Luc Letourneau-Leblond. Sestito could find himself on the team next season if either of the aforementioned players should be sidelined with a lengthy injury.

Rangers Sign Forward Ales Kotalik to Three-Year Deal

The New York Rangers added some much needed offense to their team last Thursday by signing left wing Ales Kotalik to a three-year contract worth $9 million. The deal averages out to $3 million per season. Kotalik appeared in 75 games last season with the Buffalo Sabres and Edmonton Oilers after being dealt to the Oilers at the 2009 trade deadline in exchange for a second round pick in the 2009 Entry Draft. In those 75 games, he scored 20 goals and 23 assists for 43 points. In 445 career games with the Sabres and Oilers, he has 121 goals and 130 assists for 251 points. Not a bad signing for the Rangers, as they were in need of some offensive and goal-scoring depth for next season. Kotalik brings lots of offensive skill to the team, especially on the power play, and will likely be a top-six forward for the Rangers next season.

Ducks Sign Defenseman Boynton to One-Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks added some defensive depth to their blueline last week by signing defenseman Nick Boynton to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million. In 68 games last season with the Florida Panthers, Boynton scored five goals and 16 assists for 21 points and 91 penalty minutes. In 505 career games with the Panthers, Boston Bruins, and Phoenix Coyotes, he has 32 goals and 96 assists for 128 points and 751 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Ducks, who were in need of some toughness on defense after the departures of Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin. While Boynton brings the Ducks plenty of defensive depth and physical play, his skill alone is not enough to replace the skills of Pronger and Beauchemin. Look for the Ducks to possibly pursue another affordable veteran defenseman to help further solidify their blueline.

Flames Re-Sign Forward Carsen Germyn

The Calgary Flames have announced that they have re-signed right wing Carsen Germyn to a new contract. Exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Germyn did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 75 games with the Quad City Flames of the AHL, scoring 13 goals and 47 assists for 60 points and 57 penalty minutes. He has appeared in a total of four NHL games with the Flames, scoring no points. This is really just a depth signing for the Flames, as Germyn is not likely to see much playing time with the team next season. He has put up great numbers and played very physical hockey at the AHL level, making him one the Flames’ top prospects for the past few seasons, but at 27-years-old, Germyn will never play regularly in the NHL at this point. He will just be a fourth line depth forward.

Kings Re-Sign Forward Parse to One-Year Contract

The Los Angeles Kings announced last week that they have re-signed right wing Scott Parse to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Parse did not play in any NHL games last season, instead appearing in 74 games with their AHL affiliate in Manchester. He scored 15 goals and 24 assists for 39 points. This is really just a depth signing for the Kings, as Parse will probably play another season in the minors before he gets any consideration for a roster spot on the team.

Blues Re-Sign Goaltender Hannu Toivonen

The St. Louis Blues announced that they have re-signed goaltender Hannu Toivonen to a new contract. The exact length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. In 52 games last season with Ilves Tampere of the Finnish League, Toivonen posted a 19-23-0 record with a 2.68 GAA and a .910 save percentage. He last played in the NHL with the Blues during the 2007-08 season, appearing in 23 games and posting a 6-10-5 record with a 3.44 GAA and .878 save percentage. The Blues have likely signed Toivonen as minor league depth for their AHL affiliate in Peoria, as they already appearing set with Chris Mason and Ty Conklin as their two netminders next season. Toivonen has struggled mightily in the NHL since his relatively successful rookie season in 2005-06 and spent last season in Finland to get back on his game, but only played okay. He could be called upon to be the backup if Mason or Conklin miss a lot of time with an injury, but I have my doubts that he will ever play regularly in the NHL again.

Veteran Center Joe Sakic Retires

One of the greatest centers to ever play in the NHL called it a career last Thursday as long-time Colorado Avalanche forward Joe Sakic retired after playing 20 seasons in the NHL. Sakic had been plagued by back problems in recent years and felt that he could not continue playing. He was limited to 15 games last season with the Avalanche after suffering a herniated disc in his back, as well as broken fingers he suffered in a snow blower accident. He scored only two goals and 10 assists for 12 points. In 1378 career games with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche franchise, he scored 625 goals and 1016 assists for 1641 points. Sakic was a 12-time all-star who won two Stanley Cups with the Avalanche in 1996 and 2001. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1996 as the MVP of the playoffs, the Hart Trophy in 2001 as league MVP, the Lady Byng Trophy in 2001 for gentlemanly conduct, and the Lester B. Pearson Award in 2001 as league MVP by the NHLPA. He is also the 14th highest goal scoring player and 8th highest point scoring player in NHL history. This is a huge loss for the Avalanche and NHL as a whole, as Sakic was a tremendous and classy player throughout his career. He was a proven goal scorer who excelled on the power play, had great passing skills, and was one of the greatest team leaders the NHL has ever known. Sakic always kept a cool head on the ice, even during the fierce and bitter rivalry that developed between the Avalanche and Detroit Red Wings during the mid 90s. Sakic should be very proud of everything he accomplished throughout his career, and should be a shoe-in for the Hall of Fame the first year he is eligible.

Lightning Sign Defenseman Foster to One-Year Deal

The Tampa Bay Lightning added some veteran depth to their blueline last week by signing defenseman Kurtis Foster to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Foster appeared in only 10 games last season for the Minnesota Wild after suffering a badly broken leg during the 2007-08 season that almost forced him into retirement. After undergoing lots of conditioning, he made an improbable comeback last season. In those 10 games, he scored one goal and five assists for six points. In 186 career games with the Wild and Atlanta Thrashers, he has 21 goals and 56 assists for 77 points. This is a decent signing for the Lightning, as Foster gives the team some offensive skill on the blueline, especially on the power play, and some toughness as well. While Foster was impressive in the few games he played last season, he will have to prove himself again this season to show that his leg injury will not effect his performance on the ice.