Flyers Acquire Kris Versteeg from Maple Leafs

The Philadelphia Flyers announced Monday evening that they have acquired right wing Kris Versteeg from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for Philadelphia's first and third round picks in the 2011 Entry Draft. He still has one more year left on his current contract. The Maple Leafs originally acquired Versteeg last summer from the Chicago Blackhawks along with Bill Sweatt in exchange for prospect forwards Viktor Stahlberg, Chris DiDomenico, and Philippe Paradis. In 53 games this season, he has 14 goals and 21 assists for 35 points. Not a bad move for the Flyers, as Versteeg is sure to add some offensive punch to the team. He will add some skill to the power play and penalty kill, as well as a little toughness to the forward lines. The Beauchemin and Versteeg trades now indicate that the Maple Leafs will be sellers going into the February 28 trade deadline, so it's likely that more players could be shopped over the next two weeks.

Peter Forsberg Announces His Retirement

After only two games with the Colorado Avalanche, left wing Peter Forsberg has decided to retire from hockey. The 37-year-old forward had signed a contract with the Avalanche just last week in an attempt to make an NHL comeback. He cited foot problems as his reason for retirement, which have plagued him in recent years and prevented NHL comebacks over the past few seasons. In 708 career NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Philadelphia Flyers, and Nashville Predators, he has 249 goals and 636 assists for 885 points. He won the Stanley Cup in 1996 and 2001 as a member of the Avalanche, the Hart Trophy as league MVP and the Art Ross Trophy as the leading scorer in 2003, the Calder Trophy as rookie-of-the-year in 1995, and Olympic Gold Medals in 1994 and 2006 as a member of Team Sweden. This should really come as no surprise, as the constant foot problems have hindered Forsberg's career over the past several years. However, it is a bit surprising that he is retiring after only two games, although his injured foot was clearly still bothering him. Forsberg was always an outstanding playmaker and stickhandler and had great offensive skills and it's unfortunate to see his brilliant career ended by an injury. He will surely be a lock for the Hall of Fame one day.

Stars Sign Jason Williams to One-Year Contract

The Dallas Stars have announced that they have signed right wing Jason Williams to a one-year, two-way contract for the remainder of the 2010-11 season. The deal will pay him $500,000 at the NHL level and $105,000 at the AHL level. In 17 games this season with Connecticut of the AHL, he has four goals and nine assists for 13 points. In 44 games last season with the Detroit Red Wings, he had six goals and nine assists for 15 points. He also missed 38 games last season with a broken fibula. Not a bad depth signing for the Stars, as Williams will bring versatility, offensive and veteran depth, and some skill to the power play.

Predators Acquire Mike Fisher from Senators

The Nashville Predators announced today that they have acquired center Mike Fisher from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for a first round draft pick in 2011 and a conditional draft pick in 2012. The conditional pick will turn into a third rounder if the Predators win one playoff round. That pick will then turn into a second rounder if Nashville wins two or more playoff rounds. Fisher still has two more seasons left on his current contract and will clear $4.2 million per season from Ottawa's salary. In 55 games so far this season, he has 14 goals and 10 assists for 24 points. In 675 career NHL games, all with the Senators, he has 167 goals and 181 assists for 348 points. This is a great trade for the Predators, as Fisher is an excellent two-way center with good speed and a great shot. He is also excellent on the penalty kill and has plenty of playoff experience, both of which should be a large help to the Predators. Also, being married to country music superstar Carrie Underwood, Fisher should fit in well in Nashville.

Sharks Acquire Davis, Swift from Devils for Leach, Zalewski

The San Jose Sharks announced on Wednesday night that they have acquired right wing Patrick Davis and center Michael Swift from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for defenseman Jay Leach and center Steven Zalewski. Davis, Swift, and Zalewski will all be eligible for restricted free agency this summer, while Leach will be an unrestricted free agent. In 40 games this season with Albany of the AHL, Davis has 13 points, while Swift has 28 points in 48 games with Albany as well. In 50 games this season with Worcester of the AHL, Zalewski has 21 points, while Leach has five points with Worcester. This is really just a depth move for both teams, as all four players will likely spend the rest of the season in the minors. However, Leach could possibly see time with the Devils if injuries begin to mount on their blueline like they did earlier in the season.

Blackhawks Acquire Frolik, Salak from Panthers for Skille, Jessiman, Pacan

The Chicago Blackhawks announced Wednesday night that they have acquired right wing Michael Frolik and goaltender Alexander Salak from the Florida Panthers in exchange for right wings Jack Skille and Hugh Jessiman and prospect center David Pacan. Frolik, Salak, and Skille will all be eligible for restricted free agency in July, while Jessiman will be an unrestricted free agent. In 52 games this season, Frolik has eight goals and 21 assists for 29 points, while Skille has seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points in 49 games. In 41 games with Farjestad BK of the Swedish Elite League, Salak has a 2.04 GAA, a .925 save percentage, and six shutouts. Jessiman has three goals and two assists for five points in 25 games with Rockford of the AHL, while Pacan has 43 points in 47 games with the Niagara IceDogs of the OHL. Not a bad move for the Blackhawks, as Frolik has lots of offensive skill and scoring potential. He does have some consistency issues, but perhaps getting a new start with Chicago will help him improve his offensive game. Skille has some size, can play a physical game, and goal-scoring upside, but also suffers from consistency issues. Perhaps more ice time in Florida will help him improve his game. Pacan gives the Panthers a promising center who has lots of size and some offensive upside who could likely make the team a few seasons down the road. Salak gives the Blackhawks a talented goaltender with plenty of size who works hard in the net, and could potentially see some NHL action with the team in the future. Jessiman gives the Panthers a physical winger who can score at the AHL level, but has never been able to crack an NHL lineup. He will likely spend the rest of the season in the minors.

NY Islanders Acquire Al Montoya from Coyotes for Draft Pick

The New York Islanders announced on Wednesday night that they have acquired goaltender Al Montoya from the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for a sixth round pick in the 2011 Entry Draft. The Islanders were in need of a goalie after rookie Kevin Poulin suffered a season-ending knee injury in the warm-up for Tuesday's game against Toronto. The Islanders are also currently without Rick DiPietro, who suffered face and knee injuries after fighting Pittsburgh's Brent Johnson last week, Nathan Lawson, who also has a knee injury, and Evgeni Nabokov, who has refused to report to the team since being claimed off waivers from the Detroit Red Wings on January 22. In 21 games this season with San Antonio of the AHL, Montoya has posted an 11-8-0 record, with a 3.19 GAA and a .891 save percentage. He will report to the Islanders' AHL affiliate in Bridgeport. This should be a good opportunity for Montoya, as he has spent much of his career in the AHL and should bring plenty of experience in net for the Islanders. He could emerge as a reliable backup for the team as the rest of the season plays out.

Ducks Acquire Beauchemin from Maple Leafs for Lupul, Gardiner

The Anaheim Ducks announced on Wednesday that they have acquired defenseman Francois Beauchemin from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for right wing Joffrey Lupul, defenseman Jake Gardiner, and a conditional fourth round pick in the 2013 Entry Draft. Beauchemin has one more season left on his current contract, while Lupul still has two more years on his current deal. In 54 games so far this season, Beachemin has two goals and 10 assists for 12 points, while Lupul has five goals and eight assists for 13 points in 26 games. He missed 28 games earlier this season after having back surgery last April. In 30 games with the University of Wisconsin this season, Gardiner has seven goals and 23 assists for 30 points. This move works for both teams, as it addresses needs for both Anaheim and Toronto. Beachemin has good size, can log lots of minutes, and can play a physical game. He will bring lots of defensive experience to the team, where he previously played from 2005 to 2009. Lupul brings some much needed offensive and goal scoring experience to the Maple Leafs' roster. However, he has battled inconsistency and injury issues over the past couple of seasons, so Lupul could be a risky acquisition if he cannot stay healthy or improve his offensive game. Gardiner, though, is the prize for Toronto in this trade. He has lots of offensive talent, skates well, and has lots of upside on the blueline. Look for him to battle for a roster spot at training camp this September.

Ducks Sign Goaltender Ray Emery to One-Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks announced on Monday that they have signed goaltender Ray Emery to a one-year, two-way contract for the rest of the season. The deal will pay him $500,000 at the NHL level and $105,000 at the AHL level. He cleared waivers on Tuesday and has been assigned to Syracuse of the AHL. The 28-year-old netminder, who underwent hip surgery last April, has been conditioning his hip over the past month in order to make an NHL comeback. In 29 games last season with the Philadelphia Flyers, he posted a 16-11-1 record, three shutouts, a 2.64 GAA, and a .905 save percentage. Not a bad signing for the Ducks, as Emery has good size and is a solid goaltender. However, his behavioral issues have always effected his play and caused him to lose focus in net. As long as he can control his attitude, he should help the Ducks be more competitive in net as the playoffs approach. For now, Emery will continue to condition in the minors until he is ready to play in the NHL. With Jonas Hiller currently sidelined with fatigue, Emery could be back in the NHL in the near future as long as he doesn't have any more hip problems.

Avalanche Sign Peter Forsberg to One-Year Contract

Peter Forsberg is on his way back to the NHL. The Colorado Avalanche announced on Sunday that they have signed the 37-year-old left wing to a one-year contract worth $1 million. The deal includes a no-trade and no-movement clause and will expire at the end of the 2010-11 season, making him an unrestricted free agent on July 1. He hasn't played in the NHL since the 2007-08 season because of foot problems and has been conditioning his injured foot for the last two seasons in Sweden. Due to visa issues, Forsberg isn't expected to play his first game until at least February 11 when the Avalanche play the Blue Jackets in Columbus. In 706 career NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche, Philadelphia Flyers, and Nashville Predators, he has 249 goals and 636 assists for 885 points. He won the Stanley Cup in 1996 and 2001 as a member of the Avalanche, the Hart Trophy as league MVP and the Art Ross Trophy as the leading scorer in 2003, the Calder Trophy as rookie-of-the-year in 1995, and Olympic Gold Medals in 1994 and 2006 as a member of Team Sweden. Not a bad signing for Colorado as long as Forsberg can stay healthy. He is an outstanding playmaker and stickhandler, as well as a bit of a physical player. He has worked very hard to make a comeback to the NHL after years of foot problems, and as long as his foot doesn't get re-injured, he should be a decent offensive contributor for the Avalanche. If he suffers another foot injury, it will more than likely spell the end of Forsberg's hockey career.

Maple Leafs Sign Mike Brown to Three-Year Extension

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that they have signed right wing Mike Brown to a three-year contract extension worth $2.215 million. The deal will pay him $760,000 in 2011-12 and $725,000 in both the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons. He would have been a restricted free agent this summer. In 27 games so far this season, he has two goals and three assists for five points and 41 penalty minutes. Not a bad depth signing for the Maple Leafs, as Brown is a very physical player who is not afraid to drop the gloves to protect his teammates. He also has some speed and can kill penalties, making him an effective checking line forward for the team.

Lightning Sign Nate Thompson to Two-Year Contract Extension

The Tampa Bay Lightning announced on Tuesday that they have signed left wing Nate Thompson to a two-year contract extension worth $1.8 million. The deal will pay him $950,000 for the 2011-12 season and $850,000 for the 2012-13 season. He would have been a restricted free agent this summer. In 51 games so far this season, he has seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Lightning, as Thompson plays with lots of energy and works very hard every shift on the ice. He's also good on the penalty kill and very versatile in the lineup, as he can play both center and on the wing. He should be a good checking line option for Tampa Bay over the next two years.

2011 NHL Super Skills Competition Results

Here are the results for the 2011 NHL Super Skills Competition, which was held on Saturday, January 29, 2011.

WINNERS
Fastest Skater: Michael Grabner, F - Team Staal (New York Islanders)
Breakaway Challenge: Alex Ovechkin, F - Team Staal (Washington Capitals)
Accuracy Shooting: Daniel Sedin, F - Team Staal (Vancouver Canucks)
Skills Challenge Relay: Team Lidstrom
Hardest Shot: Zdeno Chara, D - Team Staal (Boston Bruins)
Elimination Shootout: Corey Perry, F - Team Staal (Anaheim Ducks)


FASTEST SKATER
Event Winner: Michael Grabner, F - Team Staal (New York Islanders) - 14.238 seconds

Backward Skating
Duncan Keith, D - Team Lidstrom - 16.167 seconds
Kris Letang, D - Team Staal - 16.132 seconds (winner)

Rookies
Taylor Hall, F - Team Lidstrom - 14.621 seconds
Michael Grabner, F - Team Staal - 14.061 seconds (winner)

Goalies
Tim Thomas, G - Team Lidstrom - fell (disqualified)
Cam Ward, G - Team Staal - 18.895 seconds (winner)

Forward Skating
Martin St. Louis, F - Team Lidstrom - 14.763 seconds (winner)
Ryan Kesler, F - Team Staal - 14.786 seconds

Steven Stamkos, F - Team Lidstrom - 14.731 seconds (winner)
Mike Green, D - Team Staal - 15.200 seconds

Matt Duchene, F - Team Lidstrom - 14.779 seconds (winner)
Marc Staal, D - Team Staal - fell (disqualified)

Tie-Breaker
Taylor Hall, F - Team Lidstrom - 14.715 seconds
Michael Grabner, F - Team Staal - 14.238 seconds (winner)

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 5, Team Lidstrom 3


BREAKAWAY CHALLENGE (Determined by fan votes on most creative shot)
Event Winner: Alex Ovechkin, F - Team Staal (Washington Capitals) - 38.5%

Goalies: Marc-Andre Fleury - Team Lidstrom, Carey Price - Team Staal

Rookies
P.K. Subban, D - Team Staal - 21.3%
Evgeny Dadonov, F - Team Lidstrom - 2.1%

All-Stars
Corey Perry, F - Team Staal - 12.2%
Anze Kopitar, F - Team Lidstrom - 12.5%
Alex Ovechkin, F - Team Staal - 38.5%
Loui Eriksson, F - Team Lidstrom - 13.4%

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 12, Team Lidstrom 4


ACCURACY SHOOTING (Fastest shooter to hit 4 targets)
Event Winner: Daniel Sedin, F - Team Staal (Vancouver Canucks) - 8.9 seconds

Passers: Nicklas Lidstrom, Danny Briere - Team Lidstrom
Passers: Dan Boyle, Paul Stastny - Team Staal

Shooters

Heat 1
Brad Richards, F - Team Lidstrom
Ryan Kesler, F - Team Staal - 9.6 seconds (winner)

Heat 2 (Rookies)
Derek Stepan, F - Team Lidstrom
Logan Couture, F - Team Staal - 12.4 seconds (winner)

Heat 3
Jonathan Toews, F - Team Lidstrom - 8.8 seconds (winner)
Patrick Sharp, F - Team Staal

Heat 4
Phil Kessel, F - Team Lidstrom
Rick Nash, F - Team Staal - 17.9 seconds (winner)

Heat 5
Patrick Kane, F - Team Lidstrom - 8.7 seconds (winner)
Eric Staal, F - Team Staal

Heat 6
Martin Havlat, F - Team Lidstrom
Daniel Sedin, F - Team Staal - 7.3 seconds (winner)

Heat 7 (Final)
Patrick Kane, F - Team Lidstrom
Daniel Sedin, F - Team Staal - 8.9 seconds (winner)

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 18, Team Lidstrom 6


SKILLS CHALLENGE RELAY
Event Winner: Team Lidstrom - 2:09

Relay 1 (Left-handed shooters)

Team Lidstrom - 2:09
Nicklas Lidstrom, D - blue line shooter
Brad Richards, F - mid shooter
Loui Eriksson, F - side net shooter
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D - one-timer passer
Henrik Sedin, F - little net passing
Martin St. Louis, F - stickhandling around cones
Matt Duchene, F - stickhandling around pucks
Jonathan Toews, F - target shooting

Team Staal - 2:18
Zdeno Chara, D - blue line shooter
Eric Staal, F - mid shooter
Daniel Sedin, F - side net shooter
Erik Karlsson, D - one-timer passer
Dan Boyle, D - little net passing
Tyler Ennis, F - stickhandling around cones
Paul Stastny, F - stickhandling around pucks
Corey Perry, F - target shooting

Relay 2 (Right-handed shooters)

Team Lidstrom - 2:33
Shea Weber, D - blue line shooter
Dustin Byfuglien, D - mid shooter
Phil Kessel, F - side net shooter
Martin Havlat, F - one-timer passer
Patrick Kane, F - little net passing
Keith Yandle, D - stickhandling around cones
Kevin Shattenkirk, D - stickhandling around pucks
Danny Briere, F - target shooting

Team Staal - 2:34
Kris Letang, D - blue line shooting
Mike Green, D - mid shooter
Claude Giroux, F - side net shooter
Patrik Elias, F - one-timer passer
Jamie McBain, D - little net passing
David Backes, F - stickhandling around cones
Marc Staal, D - stickhandling around pucks
Jeff Skinner, F - target shooting

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 21, Team Lidstrom 11


HARDEST SHOT
Event Winner: Zdeno Chara - Team Staal (Boston Bruins) - 105.9 MPH (new record)

Heat 1
Brent Burns, D - Team Lidstrom - 98.4 MPH (winner)
David Backes, F - Team Staal - 96.9 MPH

Heat 2
Cam Fowler, D - Team Lidstrom - 93.8 MPH
Tyler Seguin, F - Team Staal - 97.1 MPH (winner)

Heat 3
Anze Kopitar, F - Team Lidstrom - 94.5 MPH
Patrick Sharp, F - Team Staal - 94.6 MPH (winner)

Heat 4
Shea Weber, D - Team Lidstrom - 104.8 MPH (winner)
Zdeno Chara, D - Team Staal - 104.1 MPH

Heat 5
Dustin Byfuglien, D - Team Lidstrom - 102.4 MPH (winner)
Rick Nash, F - Team Staal - 91.4 MPH

Heat 6
Steven Stamkos, F - Team Lidstrom - 101.9 MPH (winner)
Alex Ovechkin, F - Team Staal - 98.2 MPH

Heat 7 (Final)
Shea Weber, D - Team Lidstrom - 103.0 MPH
Zdeno Chara, D - Team Staal - 105.9 MPH (winner) (new record)

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 25, Team Lidstrom 15


ELIMINATION SHOOTOUT
Event Winner: Corey Perry, F - Team Staal (Anaheim Ducks) - 3 goals

Round 1

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Carey Price
Taylor Hall, F - Save (eliminated)
Henrik Sedin, F - Save (eliminated)
Keith Yandle, D - Save (eliminated)
Dustin Byfuglien, D - Goal
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D - Save (eliminated)
Phil Kessel, F - Save (eliminated)
Evgeni Dadonov, F - Save (eliminated)
Danny Briere, F - Goal

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Henrik Lundqvist
Loui Eriksson, D - Save (eliminated)
Derek Stepan, F - Save (eliminated)
Brad Richards, F - Save (eliminated)
Brent Burns, D - Save (eliminated)
Duncan Keith, D - Save (eliminated)
Steven Stamkos, F - Save (eliminated)
Anze Kopitar, F - Save (eliminated)
Martin St. Louis, F - Goal

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Cam Ward
Patrick Kane, F - Goal
Nicklas Lidstrom, D - Save (eliminated)
Matt Duchene, F - Save (eliminated)
Kevin Shattenkirk, D - Goal
Cam Fowler, D - Save (eliminated)
Shea Weber, D - Save (eliminated)
Martin Havlat, F - Goal
Jonathan Toews, F - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Marc-Andre Fleury
Ryan Kesler, F - Save (eliminated)
Tyler Ennis, F - Save (eliminated)
Dan Boyle, D - Save (eliminated)
Jeff Skinner, F - Save (eliminated)
Daniel Sedin, F - Save (eliminated)
Kris Letang, D - Save (eliminated)
P.K. Subban, D - Goal
Jamie McBain, D - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Henrik Lundqvist
Corey Perry, F - Goal
Michael Grabner, F - Save (eliminated)
Marc Staal, D - Save (eliminated)
Tyler Seguin, F - Save (eliminated)
Rick Nash, F - Goal
Mike Green, D - Save (eliminated)
Paul Stastny, F - Save (eliminated)
Patrik Elias, F - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Tim Thomas
Alex Ovechkin, F - Save (eliminated)
David Backes, F - Save (eliminated)
Logan Couture, F - Goal
Erik Karlsson, D - Goal
Claude Giroux, F - Save (eliminated)
Zdeno Chara, D - Save (eliminated)
Patrick Sharp, F - Save (eliminated)
Eric Staal, F - Goal

Round 2

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Carey Price
Dustin Byfuglien, D - Save (eliminated)
Danny Briere, F - Save (eliminated)
Martin St. Louis, F - Goal

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Henrik Lundqvist
Patrick Kane, F - Save (eliminated)
Kevin Shattenkirk, D - Save (eliminated)
Martin Havlat, F - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Marc-Andre Fleury
P.K. Subban, D - Save (eliminated)
Corey Perry, F - Goal
Rick Nash, F - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Jonas Hiller
Logan Couture, F - Save (eliminated)
Erik Karlsson, D - Save (eliminated)
Eric Staal, F - Save (eliminated)

Round 3

Team Lidstrom Shooters vs. Cam Ward
Martin St. Louis, F - Save (eliminated)

Team Staal Shooters vs. Tim Thomas
Corey Perry, F - Goal (winner)

SCORE AFTER EVENT: Team Staal 33, Team Lidstrom 22

FINAL SCORE: Team Staal 33, Team Lidstrom 22

NY Islanders Sign Matt Moulson to Three-Year Extension

The New York Islanders announced on Thursday that they have signed left wing Matt Moulson to a three-year contract extension worth $9.4 million. The deal averages out to $3.13 million per season. He would have been an unrestricted free agent this summer. In 49 games so far this season, he has 17 goals and 12 assists for 29 points. Not a bad signing for the Islanders, as Moulson has become a decent offensive contributor for the team. He's a decent goal-scorer with a good shot and works very hard on the ice. He should continue to be one of the Islanders' top offensive producers over the next three years.

Capitals Sign Alexander Semin to One-Year Extension

The Washington Capitals announced today that they have signed right wing Alexander Semin to a one-year contract extension worth $6.7 million, a slight raise over the $6 million he is making this season. He would have been an unrestricted free agent this summer. In 39 games so far this season, he has 18 goals and 17 assists for 35 points. He is currently sidelined with a hip injury, but Capitals GM George McPhee hopes Semin will return to the lineup after the all-star game. In 366 career NHL games, all with Washington, he has 166 goals and 169 assists for 335 points. This is a good signing for the Capitals, as Semin is a very offensively skilled player. He's a great goal-scorer, owns a very impressive shot, and is excellent on the power play. Despite being a little streaky in his scoring, Semin should be one of the top offensive producers in Washington next season.

2011 NHL All-Star Game Rosters

Here is a list of the players who have been selected to appear in the 2011 NHL All-Star game in Raleigh, North Carolina on January 30. The first six players have already been determined based on fan votes. The remaining 36 players will be unveiled on January 11, as well as the 12 NHL rookies who will participate with the NHL All-Stars in the SuperSkills competition. In approximately two weeks, the captains of each team will be named, as well as the alternate captains. Here are the six players who received the most fan votes and are now scheduled to appear in the All-Star Game, followed by the rest of the players in alphabetical order:

FORWARDS
Jonathan Toews, C - Chicago Blackhawks (407,676 votes)
David Backes, RW - St. Louis Blues (1st appearance)
Danny Briere, C - Philadelphia Flyers
Matt Duchene, C - Colorado Avalanche (1st appearance)
Patrik Elias, LW - New Jersey Devils
Loui Eriksson, LW - Dallas Stars (1st appearance)
Claude Giroux, RW - Philadelphia Flyers (1st appearance)
Martin Havlat, RW - Minnesota Wild
Patrick Kane, RW - Chicago Blackhawks (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Ryan Kesler, C - Vancouver Canucks (1st appearance) (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Phil Kessel, RW - Toronto Maple Leafs (1st appearance)
Anze Kopitar, C - Los Angeles Kings
Rick Nash, RW - Columbus Blue Jackets
Alex Ovechkin, LW - Washington Capitals
Corey Perry, RW - Anaheim Ducks
Brad Richards, C - Dallas Stars (1st appearance)
Daniel Sedin, LW - Vancouver Canucks (1st appearance)
Henrik Sedin, C - Vancouver Canucks
Patrick Sharp, LW - Chicago Blackhawks (1st appearance)
Jeff Skinner, RW - Carolina Hurricanes (1st appearance)
Martin St. Louis, RW - Tampa Bay Lightning (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Eric Staal, C - Carolina Hurricanes (CAPTAIN)
Steven Stamkos, C - Tampa Bay Lightning (1st appearance)
Paul Stastny, C - Colorado Avalanche

DEFENSEMEN
Kris Letang, D - Pittsburgh Penguins (477,960 votes) (1st appearance)
Duncan Keith, D - Chicago Blackhawks (382,162 votes)
Dan Boyle, D - San Jose Sharks
Brent Burns, D - Minnesota Wild (1st appearance)
Dustin Byfuglien, D - Atlanta Thrashers (1st appearance)
Zdeno Chara, D - Boston Bruins
Mike Green, D - Washington Capitals (1st appearance) (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Erik Karlsson, D - Ottawa Senators (1st appearance)
Nicklas Lidstrom, D - Detroit Red Wings (CAPTAIN)
Marc Staal, D - New York Rangers (1st appearance)
Shea Weber, D - Nashville Predators
Keith Yandle, D - Phoenix Coyotes (1st appearance)

GOALTENDERS
Marc-Andre Fleury, G - Pittsburgh Penguins (426,305 votes) (1st appearance)
Jonas Hiller, G - Anaheim Ducks (1st appearance)
Henrik Lundqvist, G - New York Rangers
Carey Price, G - Montreal Canadiens
Tim Thomas, G - Boston Bruins
Cam Ward, G - Carolina Hurricanes (1st appearance)

COACHES
Joel Quenneville, Chicago Blackhawks
Mike Haviland, Chicago Blackhawks (assistant coach)

Alain Vigneault, Vancouver Canucks
Peter Laviolette, Philadelphia Flyers

NOTE: Quenneville and Haviland get to coach one all-star team because of Chicago winning the 2010 Stanley Cup. Vigneault and Laviolette get to co-coach the other team because their respected teams have the highest winning percentages in the Western and Eastern Conferences going into Saturday, January 8, 2011.


TEAM LIDSTROM

Nicklas Lidstrom, D (CAPTAIN)
Patrick Kane, RW (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Martin St. Louis, RW (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
1st - Steven Stamkos, C
2nd - Duncan Keith, D
3rd - Henrik Sedin, C
4th - Shea Weber, D
5th - Tim Thomas, G
6th - Danny Briere, C
7th - Dustin Byfuglien, D
8th - Jonathan Toews, C
9th - Marc-Andre Fleury, G
10th - Jonas Hiller, G
11th - Brad Richards, C
12th - Keith Yandle, D
13th - Brent Burns, D
14th - Martin Havlat, RW
15th - Anze Kopitar, C
16th - Matt Duchene, C
17th - Loui Eriksson, LW
18th - Phil Kessel, RW (last player picked)
Coaches: Alain Vigneault, Peter Laviolette


TEAM STAAL

Eric Staal, C (CAPTAIN)
Mike Green, D (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
Ryan Kesler, C (ALTERNATE CAPTAIN)
1st - Cam Ward, G (first player picked)
2nd - Alex Ovechkin, LW
3rd - Daniel Sedin, LW
4th - Zdeno Chara, D
5th - Rick Nash, RW
6th - Henrik Lundqvist, G
7th - Marc Staal, D
8th - Patrick Sharp, LW
9th - Dan Boyle, D
10th - Carey Price, G
11th - Jeff Skinner, RW
12th - Kris Letang, D
13th - Claude Giroux, RW
14th - Erik Karlsson, D
15th - Corey Perry, RW
16th - Patrik Elias, LW
17th - David Backes, RW
18th - Paul Stastny, C
Coaches: Joel Quenneville, Mike Haviland


The following players who were scheduled to play in the 2011 All-Star Game will not be participating:

Sidney Crosby, C - Pittsburgh Penguins (635,509 votes) (concussion) (replaced by Martin Havlat)
Tobias Enstrom, D - Atlanta Thrashers (broken hand) (replaced by Keith Yandle)
Ales Hemsky, RW - Edmonton Oilers (concussion) (replaced by Jeff Skinner)
Jarome Iginla, RW - Calgary Flames (family reasons) (replaced by Danny Briere)
Evgeni Malkin, C - Pittsburgh Penguins (376,887 votes) (sore knee/sinus infection) (replaced by Paul Stastny)


The 12 NHL rookies selected to only participate in the NHL SuperSkills Competition:

Logan Couture, C - San Jose Sharks
Evgeny Dadonov, RW - Florida Panthers
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D - Phoenix Coyotes
Tyler Ennis, LW - Buffalo Sabres
Cam Fowler, D - Anaheim Ducks
Michael Grabner, RW - New York Islanders
Taylor Hall, LW - Edmonton Oilers
Jamie McBain, D - Carolina Hurricanes
Tyler Seguin, C - Boston Bruins
Kevin Shattenkirk, D - Colorado Avalanche
Derek Stepan, C - New York Rangers
P.K. Subban, D - Montreal Canadiens

The following rookies who were scheduled to participate in the NHL SuperSkills Competition and will not be participating:

Jordan Eberle, RW - Edmonton Oilers (sprained left ankle/appendectomy) (replaced by Jamie McBain)
Jeff Skinner, RW - Carolina Hurricanes (replacing Ales Hemsky in the All-Star Game) (replaced by P.K. Subban)

NY Islanders Claim Evgeni Nabokov Off Waivers from Red Wings

The New York Islanders announced today that they have claimed goaltender Evgeni Nabokov off waivers from the Detroit Red Wings. However, according to tsn.ca, Nabokov has decided he will not report to the Islanders, meaning the team will probably suspend him for not reporting and could put him back on waivers. The contract Nabokov signed with the Red Wings includes a no-movement clause and he cannot be put back on waivers without his permission. He became a free agent this past December after being released by SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL. In 22 games with the Russian club, he posted an 8-8-5 record, with a 3.02 GAA and a .888 save percentage. In 71 games last season with the San Jose Sharks, he posted a 44-16-10 record, three shutouts, a 2.43 GAA, and a .922 save percentage. This move comes as no surprise, as it was unlikely Nabokov would clear waivers given his skill level and very affordable salary. He's a good pick-up for the Islanders assuming he will play for the team. If he does, he will provide a lot of stability in net for the Islanders after trading Dwayne Roloson to the Tampa Bay Lightning earlier this month and losing Rick Dipietro to a groin injury. Dipietro, however, is day-to-day and isn't expected to miss a lot of time. If Nabokov hits the waiver wire again, he will likely be claimed. As for Detroit, they will likely continue to rotate Joey MacDonald, Thomas McCollum, or Jordan Pearce as the backup goaltender while Chris Osgood continues to recover from sports hernia surgery. However, with Jimmy Howard's struggles in net over the past two months, I wouldn't rule out the Red Wings possibly making a trade for a backup goaltender between now and the February 28 trade deadline.

Red Wings Sign Evgeni Nabokov to One-Year Contract

The Detroit Red Wings announced today that they have signed goaltender Evgeni Nabokov to a one-year contract worth $570,000. He will have to pass through waivers first before he can join the team. The contract includes a no-movement clause and he cannot be put back on waivers after Friday without his permission. Nabokov was released from SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL last December after signing a four-year contract with the team this past summer. He will be ineligible to play in the AHL this season because of a rule regarding free agents coming from Europe after December 15. In 71 games last season with the San Jose Sharks, he posted a 44-16-10 record, three shutouts, a 2.43 GAA, and a .922 save percentage. In 593 career NHL games, all with the Sharks, he has a 293-178-37 record, 50 shutouts, a 2.39 GAA, and a .912 save percentage. This is a good signing for the Red Wings, as Nabokov will add lots of veteran depth and stability in goal for the team. With Chris Osgood currently sidelined with a hernia and Jimmy Howard struggling a bit in net, Nabokov will be a welcome addition for Detroit. However, in my opinion, it is very unlikely that he will clear waivers by noon tomorrow. There are plenty of playoff-bound teams, such as Washington, Atlanta, Minnesota, Nashville, Colorado, Anaheim, and even San Jose, who could use some help in goal. Also, his contract is very affordable and nearly every team in the NHL would be able to fit it under the salary cap. Plus, teams who don't really need goaltending help could still claim Nabokov off waivers to keep the Red Wings from officially landing him. Sorry Red Wings fans, I don't think you will be seeing Nabokov in Detroit this season.

Penguins Sign Mark Letestu to Two-Year Extension

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced today that they have signed center Mark Letestu to a two-year contract extension worth $1.25 million. The deal averages out to $625,000 per season. He would have been eligible for restricted free agency this summer. In 46 games so far this season, he has nine goals and 10 assists for 19 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Penguins, as Letestu has emerged as a very capable fourth line center this season. He has some two-way upside, a little offensive ability, and some skill on the faceoff. He should be a decent checking line center for the Penguins over the next two years.

Jon Sim Leaves NY Islanders to Play in Europe

Jon Sim's days as a New York Islander are over. The 33-year-old forward has signed with HC Fribourg-Gotteron of the Swiss National League after clearing waivers. Last week, he was assigned to the Islanders' AHL affiliate in Bridgeport, but failed to report to the team. He was then suspended by the Islanders and placed on unconditional waivers. After he went unclaimed on waivers, his contract was terminated by the team. It appears the Islanders knew of his desire to play with a European team and were more than willing to help him, as he was highly regarded by the team. In 34 games this season, Sim had one goal and three assists for four points. In 435 career NHL games with the Dallas Stars, Nashville Predators, Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Florida Panthers, Atlanta Thrashers, and New York Islanders, he has 74 goals and 61 assists for 135 points. Sim was a well-traveled forward in the NHL who developed into a decent checking line winger over the past few years. He should be a decent addition for HC Fribourg-Gotteron and I wish him the best of luck with his new team.

Sharks Claim Kyle Wellwood Off Waivers from Blues

The San Jose Sharks announced today that they have claimed center Kyle Wellwood off waivers from the St. Louis Blues, just one day after he officially signed a one-year deal with the team. He had been released by Atlant Mytishchi of the KHL two weeks ago and had to pass through waivers in order to join the Blues. The Blues suffered a similar fate this past December when they attempted to sign forward Marek Svatos to a one-year deal. He was claimed off waivers by the Nashville Predators one day after signing with St. Louis. In 75 games last season with the Vancouver Canucks, Wellwood had 14 goals and 11 assists for for 25 points. In 338 career NHL games with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks, he has 63 goals and 97 assists for 160 points. He attended the Phoenix Coyotes' training camp this past September on a tryout basis, but was unsuccessful in making the team. This is an okay move for the Sharks, as Wellwood will add some offensive depth to the forward lines. He is a decent playmaker, but is somewhat inconsistent in his scoring, so perhaps he will be able to improve his skills a bit in San Jose and maybe provide a little spark to the team's struggling offense. As for the Blues, this is the second time they've been burned on the waiver wire in the last 30 days while trying to add offensive depth to their injury-depleted roster. At this point, it may be best for them to call up some players from the minors to help cover for their injuries.

Sharks Acquire Ben Eager from Thrashers

The San Jose Sharks announced today that they have acquired left wing Ben Eager from the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for a fifth round pick in the 2011 Entry Draft. Eager, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, has three goals and seven assists for 10 points and 77 penalty minutes in 34 games so far this season. He is currently serving a four-game suspension for sucker-punching Toronto's Colby Armstrong. Not a bad move for the Sharks, as Eager will add lots of grit and toughness to the team. He should be a decent addition to the checking lines as an agitator.

Maple Leafs Acquire Brunnstrom from Stars for Stefanovich

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Thursday that they have acquired right wing Fabian Brunnstrom from the Dallas Stars in exchange for right wing prospect Mikhail Stefanovich. Brunnstrom, who will be eligible for restricted free agency this summer, has played the entire season in the AHL with Texas, scoring 11 goals and 10 assists for 21 points in 37 games. He will report to the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, and if he plays well, could be called up to play with the Maple Leafs. In 99 career NHL games, all with Dallas, he has 19 goals and 21 assists for 40 points. Stefanovich has one goal in 15 games with Dynamo Minsk of the KHL this season and has also appeared in two games with the Marlies, scoring no points. This isn't a bad depth move for the Maple Leafs, as Brunnstrom still does have the potential to become a decent scoring forward in the NHL. Perhaps a fresh start in Toronto can help him get his NHL career back on track. As for the Stars, they get a potential scoring forward in Stefanovich. While he does have the ability to score goals, he is still a few years away from seeing any NHL action, so he will continue to develop in either the AHL or possibly the KHL.

Predators Sign Jerred Smithson to Two-Year Extension

The Nashville Predators announced today that they have signed center Jerred Smithson to a two-year contract extension worth $1.6 million. The deal averages out to $800,000 per season. He would have been an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. In 42 games so far this season, he has four goals and four assists for eight points. In 434 career NHL games with the Los Angeles Kings and Nashville Predators, he has 34 goals and 45 assists for 79 points. Not a bad depth signing for the Predators, as Smithson brings plenty of defensive skill and versatility to the forward lines. He has good size, plays with plenty of grit, is good on faceoffs, and is great on the penalty kill, making him a very effective checking line and special teams forward for the Predators.

Blues Sign Free Agent Forward Kyle Wellwood

The St. Louis Blues announced today that they have signed center Kyle Wellwood to a one-year contract. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. He was released by Atlant Mytishchi of the KHL last week and must clear waivers before he can join the Blues. In 75 games last season with the Vancouver Canucks, Wellwood had 14 goals and 11 assists for 25 points. In 338 career NHL games with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks, he has 63 goals and 97 assists for 160 points. He attended the Phoenix Coyotes' training camp this past September on a tryout basis, but was unsuccessful in making the team. This is an okay signing for the Blues, as Wellwood should add some offensive depth to their injury-depleted roster. He's an excellent playmaker, but has a reputation for being inconsistent in his scoring. He does have the skills to be a productive player offensively, so perhaps he will get a chance to improve those skills a bit in St. Louis.