I just got this email...

When I got this email tonight I thought it was spam but realized it wasn't. Laughed my way through it and didn't actually talk to anyone to get quoted or asked what name I should take. Who is Rabbi Glickman? I need to watch that episode. hahaha I took out the real names to protect them publicly.

VSSFFL NEWS RELEASE

The VSSFFL is saddened by the news that owner JC (Klompus) has folded the 12th franchise. Years of poor drafting and fan apathy have taken the once proud franchise to league door mat status. All records and stats will remain as Klompus.
 
On a positive note, the VSSFFL is proud to announce that Trevor Kempner has been approved by the Ownership Committee and his franchise will begin play in 2012. The Chairman of the Committee, RH, announced the "new" 12th franchise with the following comment:
 
"We did an extensive background check and found that he met all of the rigorous standards that we must uphold as owners. He is gainfully employed, is able to pay the entry fee and is an upstanding member of the community. Mind you - we let RT in a few years back and he hadn't held a job since the 90's. Oh yeah and there were the "Wearhouse" years when fees went missing and were not paid. However, Kempner is a local pastor and will hold the other owners to a higher moral standard." Added RH "we feel like we were able to diversify our ownership group by adding Kemper. We've pretty much tapped out the education, real estate and hulking male nurse fields and are happy to tap into the new market he provides."
 
Much like when the Cleveland Browns moved, Kempner will not be taking on the old moniker "Klompus." Instead, the new 12th franchise will now be called "RABBI GLICKMAN."  
 
Kempner commented that " I am an avid fantasy player and will do my best to win a championship for the Alexis Park congregation." Mr. Hirschkorn had suggested the name "Sue Ellen Mischke - the bra less wonder" but I felt that it might be a bit inappropriate so I went with a Seinfeld character that is also a man of the cloth.

 

Stay tuned for another League announcement in the coming days.

 

THE COMMISH

I am pumped to be joining this league. Can't wait to surprise them all and tick them off in my 1st year with another FF championship. It's like my friend Janzen who invited me into his dynasty FF league and I have won 3 out of 6 years now. HAHAHA It's probably because I pray over my teams health every year and spend too much time researching players and draft strategies! :) :S

THE AFTERMATH - NHL FA 2012

Finally some major movement...here's my ramblings on the aftermath of the NHL Free Agency summer of 2012.

Rick Nash

So after all the hype did Columbus GM Howson get the right deal? I don’t think it was the right deal but it was the only deal that was remaining.

The New York Rangers finally pulled off the deal to bring big hype FA Rick Nash to the Big Apple. Ranger fans are ecstatic and Nash is too!

The DEAL: The Rangers acquired F Rick Nash, D Steven Delisle and a conditional third-round pick from Columbus for F Artem Anisimov and F Brandon Dubinsky, D Tim Erixon and a first-round pick in 2013.

And I don’t mean to be rude but the only guy that CBJ is getting that I have heard of is Dubinsky. Neither Dubinsky, 26, nor Anisimov, 24, are considered stars in the making. The Rangers didn’t have to give up Derek Stepan, Chris Kreider or Michael Del Zotto. This is a big win for NYR because they added without losing any key pieces and now will run harder for the Cup.

It looks like the Rangers won this deal by a landslide because they got a top 3 forward and didn’t even give up a top 6 forward in return. But we won’t know who won this deal until 3-5 years down the road.

But the pressure is on…yes it’s all smiles now but Nash needs to produce to make his $7 million worth every penny. You got all the good line mates. There's no excuses. I think he should score 70-80 pts and if not the regular season was a fail. But maybe he produces in the playoffs and all is forgiven.

Supposedly Vancouver offered Raymond, Ballard and Schneider for Nash. Philly jumped out and went after Weber (way smarter move as Weber "would have been" a better addition). Howson got stuck with lame buyers. He should have moved him at the deadline or the draft. Would have, could have, should have. Like I always say, "Hindsight is 20/20".

Imagine being a Blue Jackets season ticket holder? OUCH! They have made the playoffs once so far. When will they make it now?

Shea Webber

The Flyers go out and make a HUGE splash getting Webber to sign an offer sheet of $110 million over 14 years. And I know people are hating the fact that the Flyers keep doing this but it’s legal. It’s part of the rules. Anyone has the right to do it. They didn’t force Webber to sign it but he willingly did. The truth is, it’s never worked for Philly. They tried to get Kesler but the Canucks matched it offer and now Weber stays as a Predator for the rest of his career.

Nashville had no choice but to match the offer. You can’t lose Suter AND Weber in the same year. I admit the money offered is insane and it hurts Nashville for having to sign him for such high $ but they made a statement by stepping up to the plate. They said, “We are not going to get bullied” and “we are a legitimate NHL franchise”! If they lost Weber who would come as a FA? You got to have a respectable team and keeping Weber keeps them respectable and competitive.

Although the Flyers are disappointed that they didn’t land Weber what’s probably more important is they didn’t give up Couturier or B.Schenn. Giving up 4 1^st rd picks would have hurt but not that much. It was worth the gamble. To me this looks like Pronger is done.

Roberto Luongo

It’s all quiet on the Western Front. I am worried that the longer they wait to make a deal the more it’s going to be like the Rick Nash deal. And the longer this goes the more I think Luongo will be with Vancouver on opening day. I still trust Gillis but I think he’s asking for too much in return. Hopefully he learns from Howson’s mistakes.

Shane Doan

Supposedly Shane wants to stay in Phoenix and gives until Friday to find out what the Coyote situation is going to be like. Shane, listen to me, run for the hills. Get out of Phoenix. Try to win a Cup. The teams reportedly interested are Pitts, Det, Montreal, Van, and of course Philly & NYR (the two teams whom seem to be in every big FA deal). Shane all those teams with the exception of Montreal would be really exciting places to sign with. When’s the last time the Coyotes were contenders? Never! Stop being a hero and move on!

Alexander Semin

So is Semin just laying low then going to get his big $ once Shane Doan signs? Probably. Semin is going to help a team out whether he goes but he should be looking to go somewhere where they can compete and contend. Supposedly the Red Wings are a nice fit but time will tell. He's going to get $6-7 million a year but he's not worth it.

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it. 

So many crazy things have shaken down this NFL offseason: 

1. Trouble

a) the "bounty scandal" has been the biggest news of the offseason. And the NFL came down with a MASSIVE punishment. Coach Payton suspended for the year. Vilma suspended. Former Def Coordinator G.Williams suspended INDEFINITELY. If it's true, good for the NFL for punishing those people responsible and sending a message to the rest of the league. 

b) Marshawn Lynch got arrested today for being suspicious of a DUI. So they couldn't prove it? They proved he was over the legal limit. According to NFL.com he's got a history with issues. 

Lynch, a former Cal star, previously had his license revoked in 2008 for failure to exercise due care toward a pedestrian after he hit a 27-year-old woman and kept driving. In 2009, Lynch was suspended for three games after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor gun charge.

In March, he signed a 4 year $31 million deal with the Seahawks and the deal include $18 million in guaranteed $. Not everything is quite on the Western Front. 

c) Supposedly A.Peterson push an under cover police man and rested arrest. 

d) Even worse, Dez Bryant WR for the most popular team in football was arrested for Domestic Family Violence charge. When questioned, his answer was, "I'm good. I'm good." Well Dez it's not you who were are worried about. It's your wife (or girlfriend) NO WAIT, it's your mom!. A man should never hit his girl and ESPECIALLY his mom. 
NFL.com says he's got some history as well.

Last year, he faced two lawsuits that sought in excess of $800,000 in unpaid bills. There was also an incident at a Dallas mall over low-hanging jeans. Bryant later apologized.  

2. Signings

a) Ray Rice signs a 5 yr deal for $8 mil per season. Great signing and for decent $.

b) Matt Forte signs a 4 yr deal for $8 mil per season as well. Weird since they signed M.Bush as big time insurance and a great option if Forte gets hurt. 

c) the biggest signing EVER was Drew Brees.$100 million ($20 mil a season). Insane #'s but he brings stability and he's a proven stud. He's won a SB with the Saints and broke records, good things to do before going to contract negotiations. :)

d) Peyton Manning gets cut by the Colts?! Then he signs with the Broncos! Which caused a snow ball affect with moving Tim "Miracle Man" Tebow to the NY Jets? 

Like I said, CRAZY offseason! 

Minnesota gets the 2 best available FREE AGENTS.

I guess the NHL isn't in a recession like the rest of us who are scraping by. Today Parise and Suter BOTH sign with Minnesota!!! Both get $98 million over 13 long years. A cap hit of $7.538 million. 


This is insane. People are asking, "Why Minnesota?" 
1. No one goes to Minnesota except for the cash. 
2. I guess Parise is from Minnesota and his parents still live there and his fiancée is from North Dakota and they are getting married this summer. 
3. Darren Dreger tweeted, "Wild players ecstatic. Heatley says he spoke with Suter 2 nights ago and swapped texts with Parise. Both asked: can we win. Answer: yes."
Okay honestly, what's Heatley going to say? We have no chance in Minnesota even if you come! haha


Are these guys over paid? Oh yeah! If Parise and Suter get this much $ how much more would Malkin, Giroux, or Stamkos get if they hit the open market? 


And another thing...they are 13 LONG year contracts. Both players are 27 so they will be 40 when the contracts end. Good for the player bad for the team if they are mediocre. Look at the troubles Vancouver has in moving Luongo with that long term contract. 


Good for Minnesota though. Supposedly Detroit offered Suter 90 million over 10 years but he wanted the more $. They didn't draft their core the bought their core. Parise and Suter are SOLID all star players. So this greatly improves the Wild who need to start competing in a strong West. LA proved what you can do if you just make the playoffs. So hats off to the Wild. 


NHL.com pointed out that this helps there offense.
Parise joins a forward group that already includes Mikko Koivu, Dany Heatley, Devin Setoguchi and Matt Cullen. Mikael Granlund is considered one of Minnesota's top prospects that could make the team this coming season.
But Suter helps their Def and Backstrom is a good goalie who just got better with Suter's help. 


This is bad for the Canucks, Oilers, Flames, Avalanche, NJ and Nashville. Obviously the GM's for NJ and Nashville are extremely disappointed. NHL.com did a great article on this and reported the reaction from both GM's:
NJ GM Lamoriello:
"There is no question we're disappointed. It's a very unfortunate thing when you have a player of his stature that has come right through the ranks and at this given time a decision is made to go elsewhere. Right now there is nothing we can do about that and we'll just go forward. Our offer was competitive and we did not at any time have a phone call that we needed to change it or it had to go up. So, it was competitive."


Nashville GM Poile: 
"Ryan has told me in every conversation that money was the not the most important criteria," Poile said in a teleconference with reporters. "He told me today that our offer was substantial. He told me it was not about the money when it came to the final decision. As I said to him, and this was all the things that we had talked about, I said, 'I don't know why you are not signing with us,' and he told me it was for family reasons. I guess that is where the disappointment comes in. I know family is important in all this. I can't fight that or argue with that. The disappointing part is that is not what we talked about all year long. I think we met Ryan's desires and criteria on every front and so today is very, very disappointing."


Insane transaction. LONG contracts. Over paid. But probably for the city of Minnesota and the buzz they are getting worth every penny. 

I'm a frustrated NHL fan...

Seriously what is going on in NHL? The league has gone all hype. Lot's of hot air. Nothing is happening. The media has done a great job getting us jacked for all the trades but it's been SO LAME.

Trade deadline: Rumours of Nash moving, Semin's going, the Lightning need a goalie...nothing happens except the biggest news of the day Hodgson for Kassian (both haven't done a thing yet). The best deal happened before the deadline when Jeff Carter went to the LA KINGS who did the impossible and won the Cup as an 8th seed.

Draft: Luongo's getting traded, Nash is on the move, the Flames are going to blow it up and rebuild, Edmonton will trade down,  etc.
What happened? Teams just drafted.

July 1st: Parise is going to sign with??? Suter will be in??? Of course they still haven't signed but I don't blame them it's a major life decision that should not be taken lightly. If I was a GM I would be going hard after Parise, he's a heart and soul kind of player. I say he goes back to NJ.

Schultz goes to Edmonton? Of course, you want to be a part of the young guys who one day will be good then all their contacts come up and the Oilers can't afford them all and trade them or let them go except Eberle because he's the best player on that team. If the Oilers can't keep those young guns together they will be a NHL farmer team just developing teams for the good ones with the $.

A trade went down yesterday...Derek Roy goes to Dallas for Ott and ... what are the Sabres thinking? Is Roy on a decline? Because I think he's a great addition to Dallas especially since they moved Riberio. Now Jagr is there...$4.5 million for

I heard the Rangers are pulling out of the Nash sweepstakes. Now I hear the Flyers are the front runners with Carolina now in the mix. Why haven't they pull the trigger on a deal yet? Actually I think Nash is overrated and I wouldn't give up what the Blue Jackets are asking.

Brodeur gets an agent to test free agency...if he signed anywhere else other than NJ that would have been so weird.

The Flames get Wideman and haven't moved much. So I guess they are not rebuilding. Honestly it would be hard to trade the faces to the franchise in Iggy and Kipper.

Why hasn't Luongo been traded? Then we have some $ to go after Suter or Parise. $4.6 million to Garrison for 6 years after he's had only 1 good year...I am nervous about this signing.

Why haven't the Leafs got a goalie yet? Over pay if you have too. Burke, you get a goalie you will make the playoffs and keep your job. If not, this is you last season. Supposedly Halak, Luongo, T.Thomas, and Bernier are all available. The time is NOW!

Montreal inks C.Price to $6.5 million a year. The dude is only 24 years old and he has almost 300 games under his belt. Good move by the Canadiens.

I am a frustrated NHL fan... just waiting for something BIG to shake down. Will it ever happen? Who knows...maybe Luongo stays with Vancouver, Nash plays for Columbus, Tim Thomas enjoys a year off, and the Leafs & Oilers miss the playoffs again. :(

5 reasons I am not a fan of the CFL

Okay many of you know I am not a fan of the CFL. This might surprise some of you because you know how much I like football.

Here's the 5 reasons why I'm not a fan of the CFL:

#5: Most QB's play for most of the teams. Today the CFL started and Henry Burris is on the Tiger Cats. How many teams has he played for? 3. It's musical chairs. Remember Matt Dunigan? He played for 5 teams. Seems a little bush league for me.
#4: Most teams make the playoffs. Actually ALL of them except one.
#3: There are only 8 teams. That's only 2 divisions in the NFL. Remember when the Ottawa Roughriders were in the league? They had the same name as the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Why would the league allow that?
#2: The no yards penalty and the constant kicking drives me nuts. Since it's only 3 downs there is a lot of punts. Then a penalty flag flies for the 1st 8 weeks on a no yards penalty because you got to give them 5 yards.
#1: It's a subpar league with subpar players. I am sorry to disrespect those who play and organize this league but compared to the alternatives in football it's true. Players would much rather play in the NFL. Faster, bigger, stronger, and the best of the best. Bigger everything except for the balls. haha

Instead of only being negative, here's 5 things I LIKE about the CFL.

#5: The format of the last two minutes makes the game very exciting.

#4: The Canadian Rule. Teams must have a minimum of 41 players, including two players who shall be identified as quarterbacks and 39 other players, of whom not more than 19 may be imports. http://www.cfl.ca/page/game_rule_ratio

#3:  It's Canadian. Good enough reason alone, eh?

#2: The Labour Day Classics. People love these battles.

#1: The Grey Cup. Usually every year the Grey Cup is very exciting. Remember when the Roughriders couldn't count and had too many men out on the field and because of the penalty there was a second try for a field goal where Montreal won? AWKWARD!

Of course I could be wrong but I highly doubt it. Happy Canada Weekend.

There is something WRONG with the Canucks.

It's be a LONG 41 years and we got to wait one more...


I am disappointed about the OT series losing loss from Monday's game vs the Kings but honestly I am not surprised. As my friend Tim said, "The team lacks something.... it's undefineable for me. It's not talent and after watching Henrik last night, it's not toughness (there at least...) But there's an intangible that is lacking. It might be grit, it might be leadership, it might be mental toughness, maybe it's the ability to thrive under pressure...." 


What's wrong with the Canucks. I am still shocked that Vancouver had 2 games to win 1 vs Boston to win the Cup and didn't. Our team was way better last year. Why? I am surprised we won the Presidents Trophy again. As you know I support my team until the end. But what happened to the #1 overall team who lost to the #8 (or reality the #14 team) in the playoffs? Yes let's give LA credit. They are better than we expected and Quick should win the Vezina, but Vancouver went down 0-3. 


Now Canucks fans can be the worst in the way they get down on the team but here's my take on what happened and most players. 


Management:
GM Gillis - In my opinion he's a great GM and should stay. Granted the Hodgson - Kassian trade was terrible and getting Pahlsson was not a good move. So I feel he failed at the deadline this year but last year he won getting Lapierre and Higgins who were key components to our Cup run.


Coach V - So many people are calling for his head...why? He's a great coach. I don't care what people say under HIS leadership we won back to back President Trophies. Bad coaches don't do that. Yes I know we want a Cup...but firing Coach V will not help us get there. 


The twins...we need these guys to win...unfortunately Henrik was trying to carry the team on his shoulders and he did pretty good but missed Daniel immensely. Daniel is a stud. He's a natural born scoring machine. But we have to get production from more than 2 guys.


David Booth - LOVE this guy. Granted he didn't produce in the playoffs but I love his speed and he's WAY better to play with the twins than Kassian or Raymond. He's a hard worker and is a great 2nd guy who can play with the twins. David should stay.


Raymond - I am done with this kid. He's not that good. Fast as fast can be but can't score if his life depended on it. Just not good enough in my opinion. Time to part ways! 


Burrows - Alex must say. Heart and soul kind of guy. He needed to be on the top line with the twins instead of both. 


Kesler - lots of people are suggesting we trade him. Granted he did JACK in the playoffs and didn't look like himself. Well in 1 game he looked good the rest I didn't notice him out there. Not sure if we should trade him but let's give him another year. Verdict is not out yet with Kesler as he's a heart and soul like of player. I am nervous that last season will be his best season. 


Actually the other forwards who should not be considered moved are Malhotra, Hansen, and Lapierre. My friend Trevor F said it right when he stated, "We have too many 4th line players".


Defensemen:
Elder - I haven't seen him play this bad ever. He's no slouch as he was chosen to be on the All Star team this year. He's got to make better decisions with the puck. He's young and will improve.


Tanev - Why didn't we give this kid more playing time last year. He's rock solid. Sure he makes a few mistakes but who doesn't. Not a scoring threat but super young who's going to be good for a long time in this league. 


Bieska - solid player that we need to keep and give tons of minutes to. LOVED his interview with the FOX journalist who thought he was Ryan Kesler. He played it up perfectly. 

Hamhuis - he's from BC and should stay. He made a big mistake trying to do it all by himself and Stoll scored in OT from his mistake but Hamhuis has been one of our best Dmen all season long. Don't crucify him for one mishap. He who hasn't sinned be the 1st to cast a stone.


Goalies:
The biggest controversy is in goal with what to do with Schneider and Luongo. I think the writing is on the wall and Luo is done in Vancouver. I have defended Luo in the past and I think he's a good starting NHL goalie. He's no Martin Brodeur but who is? 
Here's the facts:
- in the biggest games of the season vs Chicago and Boston it was Schneider who got the nod and won those games! 
- Luongo played brilliantly in Game 1 vs LA but was okay in Game 2 and didn't play after that. 
- Schneider played in the biggest games of the playoffs when it was do or die. Luongo wasn't injured but was reduced to the back up role. 
- Game 5 if it wasn't for Schneider we wouldn't have made it to OT. This kid STOOD on his head. He was calm and impressed everyone.


Vancouver rioted after losing Game 7 but if Luongo stays and Schneider goes I wouldn't be surprised if the city goes crazy again. People are done with Roberto as our starting goalie. Rumour had it that we would keep Corey as insurance for the playoff run and trade him at the NHL draft. What looks like a real possibility is Vancouver trading Luongo. My guess is he goes to Tampa Bay and we pay part of his salary for a couple of years. Columbus should have traded for Schneider and Raymond for Rick Nash when they had the chance. Toronto as much as they need a goalie isn't going to make a deal for Luongo. His reputation isn't the best in Canada. Luo's not going to waive his no trade clause to go to teams like Columbus or Edmonton. Holtby has proven to be worth the gamble in Washington and the Luongo for Semin rumour should be over.

The bottom line is we need to make some significant changes but let's not get too crazy out there. Raymond and Luo should go for sure. Depending on what we get back for those players is crucial to how we move forward.


Here's an incredible link to a video that's a tribute to the fans. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yau6CV4yrBU&feature=player_embedded

I am looking forward to the speeches by Gillis and Coach V in the next couple of days.

I want to apologize for my playoff predictions post. I always go with my head over my heart in the predictions. But this year I didn't like how the West was shaping up and thought Vancouver, with the way they finished the year, would come out firing on all cylinders. So I picked them to win it all. Why? I clearly said at the beginning of the season said that they wouldn't win. I wish I stayed with my Flyer picks and chose them to beat Nashville in the finals but what is written is written.

This time I am wrong. Sorry about that.

2012 STANLEY CUP PLAYOFF Predictions

I need to start this out saying this years playoffs will be difficult to predict. At 1^st it looks easy but the more you think about it and do the research you will see that it might be the most difficult one in years. But this is good news because it’s going to be some great hockey battles! Here’s what I am officially predicting. Trying to go with my head not my heart but you are going to be surprised at some of my calls. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Random thought: Remember when Pittsburgh lost to Detroit in the finals and then the next year Crosby and the Penguins won his 1^st cup vs the Red Wings? Imagine if that happened to the Canucks this year. One can only dream!

I picked the Capitals to beat my Canucks in the finals at the beginning of this year. It could happen but I doubt it. My new finals predictions will be at the end of the post.

WEST Predictions

1 Vancouver Canucks vs 8 LA Kings

Season Series:

The Canucks won the series 2-1-1

Analysis: The Canucks are the team to beat. And it’s great they have won a 2^nd Presidents Trophy but it’s the playoffs and you got to take every series serious or you will be golfing quicker than you can say Quick. Speaking of Jonathan Quick he’s been good enough to win the Vezina this year. But the Kings have not been very good at all. LA is big but they are having a tough time scoring. Vancouver on the other had are entering the playoffs with a nice winning streak (8-1-1).

Special teams: On the PP, Van is 4^th and LA is 17^th but they are both on the top 6 in the league on the PK.

?’s: Is Daniel Sedin and Jeff Carter going to play?

Both teams need these guys in the lineup because they offer needed scoring. But maybe Vancouver doesn’t need Daniel as much because since his injury they went on their longest win streak. Just sayin’

Sounds like both will be in the lineup for the game 1 or early in the series.

Is there a goalie controversary in Vancouver? Not yet. But if Luongo struggles he’s going to get pulled faster than you can say Corey Schneider. Vancouver has 2 #1 goalies so goaltending should not be an issue for long.

Prediction: Canucks should win this series in 5.

2 St.Louis Blues vs 7 SJ Sharks

Season Series: St.Louis owned them 4-0

Analysis: The Blues almost were the President Trophy winners. The BLUES?! This team has no superstars but are strong top to bottom and play their system well. St.Louis has the lowest GA in the league with 165. They have 2 #1 goalies like Vancouver but can only play one at a time. They LOVE playing at home as they are 30-6-5.

Don’t forget that SJ was in the West final last season but we can’t forget how horrific they have been this season. What’s going on? They are having a challenge finding consistent scoring and good goalie play. Here’s a crazy stat: St.Lou is 4-3-3 in their last 10 but SJ is 7-3.

?’s: Can the Blues keep this dream rolling?

Will the real Sharks please stand up?

Prediction: For the 1^st time in my life I am going with the youth over the experience. Blues in 6

3 Phoenix Coyotes vs 6 Chicago Blackhawks

Season Series: Phoenix won 3-1

Analysis: I watched the Coyotes live this year vs the Canucks. They are better than you think. No superstars but they’ve gotten great goaltending by Mike Smith. I wouldn’t be surprised if Phoenix wins this series. They were only 4 pts different in the standings and the Coyotes have home ice advantage.

It looks like Toews will be returning soon (maybe game 1) wish is music to Chicago’s ears. Hossa, Kane, Toews, and Sharp should be ready for the task at hand. This team is loaded with playoff experience. The biggest weakness for Chicago is their goaltending as Crawford has not been great. The team has let in 238 goals but scored quite a bit with 248 goals.

?’s: Will Crawford play like he did vs the Canucks last year? If he does this series won’t be close.

Prediction: Chicago in 7

4 Nashville Predators vs 5 Detroit Red Wings

Season Series: Tied 3-3

Analysis: Another war is about to begin. Nashville made some good playoff moves at the trade deadline. Detroit is not the same Red Wing team we have come to respect and fear.

?’s: Which goalie will be better: Howard or Rinne? Rinne hands down.

Are Zetterberg and Datsyuk too old and over the hill? I don’t think they are done but they are not dominant like they used to be.

Prediction: Nashville in 6

EAST Predictions

1 NY Rangers vs 8 Ottawa Senators

Season Series: Ottawa 3-1

Analysis: The #8 seed has knocked off the #1 seed 8 times since the current playoff format has been in place (1994). Is it time for an upset? I think so…

Ottawa isn’t on fire coming into the playoffs but they have played the Rangers really well this season. The Rangers have all the pressure on them as they are the #2 overall team. Lundqvist is a stud and can cause huge problems for the Senators. Ottawa scored 20 more goals than the Rangers did. Craig Anderson is 6-0 at Madison Square Gardens.

?’s: Will John Tortorella get fired if the Senators upset the Rangers? YES!

Prediction: Ottawa in 6

2 Boston Bruins vs 7 Washington Capitals

Season Series: Washington won 2-1-1

Analysis: Let’s be honest, Washington has been BAD this season. Backstrom is coming off a head injury and isn’t looking like his normal self yet. Vokoun was supposed to take this team to another level but has failed. The good news is Ovechkin is finally playing well and the team has been on a role. The biggest question is how will the Caps goaltending work out?

The Bruins are bigger and stronger. Thomas hasn’t played the greatest this year but he’s been good enough to keep the team winning. Boston has flown under the radar and been 7-2-1 in their last 10. You can’t count out the Stanley Cup champs. Horton looks to be out for the playoffs but that shouldn’t faze them as he’s missed most of the season as well. If anyone is built for the playoffs it’s Boston.

?’s: Who’s starting in goal for the Caps? Looks like it’s the 22 yr old Holtbly as Neuvrith and Vokoun are out with injuries.

Can the Caps beat the Bruins? Yes. Will they? No…

Prediction: I want to take Caps in the upset but this is where my head yells, “Take the Bruins!” Boston in 6 but I am cheering for Washington BIG time.

3 Florida Panthers vs 6 NJ Devils

Season Series: Florida won 2-1-1

Analysis: Who’s going to watch this defensive match-up? NOT ME! Haha

This series is probably the most one sided in favour of NJ for the ‘experts’. Florida is STRUGGLING going 2-3-5 in their final 10 games. The last time the Panthers made the playoffs they were swept by the Devils in 2000. Here’s some more crazy stats:

-NJ had 102 pts and Florida won their division with 94

-Florida scored 203 goals and NJ allowed 209 goals

- NJ scored 228 goals and Florida allowed 227 goals

Parise, Elias, and Kovalchuk will be too much to handle.

?’s: Will Brodeur play well enough to beat the Panthers? He’s got more gas left in the tank.

Will he retire after this season…he will be 40 this postseason? Probably.

Will Florida’s young guys be so pumped to be in the playoffs it will give them the added juice to win the series? I doubt it.

Prediction: NJ in 5 maybe 4 but I will say 5.

4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs 5 Philadelphia Flyers

Season Series: Flyers won 4-2

Analysis: This should be the best series going into the playoffs. Both of these teams could go to the Cup final. And to add insult to injury these teams hate each other. When the Flyers beat the Penguins 2 games ago that was went Schenn crossed checked Crosby and the war started. The last game Malkin scored his 50^th to win the game but Giroux didn’t even play which was a wise coaches decision.

Obviously Crosby and Malkin are the X factors. These guys are the best players in the world right now. And the Penguins are still a solid team without Crosby in the lineup we solid depth and great goaltending in Fleury. But Fleury has not played well with his worst SV% and GAA vs the Flyers. It looks like Philly has his #.

As good as the Penguins are the Flyers aren’t a weak team either. Ilya Brzgalov struggled in the middle of the season but has been on fire lately and will be ready for this war. The Flyers are built for the playoffs with guys like Hartnell, Simmonds, and Coburn. Philadelphia can score! This team is better than people think. The Flyers had the 2^nd highest amount of wins on the road with 24 (Boston had 25).

The Flyers will definitely miss having Pronger in the playoffs as he’s a force to be reckoned with.

?’s: Remember in the summer when the Flyers traded Carter and Richards and everyone said they wouldn’t recover from trading their stars away?

Can Fleury pick up his game vs the Flyers?

Prediction: Everyone is picking Pitts in 7 but I am going with the Flyers in 7!!!

Playoff Tree Prediction:

East

Boston beats Ottawa and Philly beats the Devils

Then Philly takes out Boston.

West

Canucks beat the Blackhawks and the Nashville beats St.Louis

Vancouver takes out Nashville.

Finals: Canucks beat the Flyers.

Of course, I could be wrong but I doubt it.

Best NFL Free Agency EVER!

If you think this tattoo is crazy (Who gets tattoo's like this? Seriously? Wacked out.) you might be thinking this seasons NFL Free Agency is insane too. This is the best NFL FA ever!

Peyton Manning

All the hype has been revolving around the 4 time MVP. The Colts released Peyton Manning because they needed to pay him $28 million this season after 4 neck surgeries in the last 2 years. With the 1st pick overall, you can't blame the Colts. But this sent 15 teams into a frenzy trying to land the biggest name in FA ever. To the Colts, good luck with Andrew Luck because I hope you are right if not it's the biggest mistake ever! You released your franchise player. The face of the franchise. The Super Bowl MVP.

15 teams aren't worried about Peyton's health. Many teams were seriously pursuing Mr.Manning: Arizona, Miami, Tennessee, Denver, and SF.

The big winners were John Elways Denver Broncos. Which I was surprised but not. Obviously Peyton is a serious upgrade at QB. But offensively I am surprised he didn't go to Arizona with Larry Fitzgerald or SF who are serious contenders in the NFC. Rumour had it he wanted to stay in the AFC.

What offensive weapons does Denver have? No offense to Decker or Thomas or McGahee but they aren't pro bowl quality yet. I can see his desire to be backed up by a great Def.

I think this addition will be great for Denver. Division rivals SD, KC, and Oakland must be so upset.

Massive draft pick trade

Is the Washington Redskins the dumbest franchise in the NFL? Once Washington was out of the Peyton sweepstakes they turned their attention to that #2 overall draft pick. The Rams where dangling it out there because they already have their QB in Bradford. Supposedly the Browns were seriously making a claim to move up to get Heisman trophy winner RG3. After the combine some believe the Baylor QB is a better and Andrew Luck.

The Redskins stepped up to the plate and offered a deal to the Rams they couldn't refuse. Washington sent the #6 overall pick, 1st rd picks in 2013 AND 2014 AND a 2012 2nd rd pick to the Rams for the right to pick #2 overall.

If RG3 turns out to be the franchise QB then this trade makes sense. It's a MASSIVE gamble and Snyder isn't the best gambler in the business. Yes he

makes a big splash but they don't always work out. Deion Sanders was a beautiful addition but don't forget about Albert Haynesworth, and McNabb. I hope this trade works out for them but I doubt it.

The Rams just rebuilt their team for the future and will be good for years to come if they draft correctly. They only traded down 4 spots and picked up a valuable 2nd round pick in this years draft. Plus the extra 2 1st round picks will be great additions as Washington won't be great for 2 years minimum.

Mike Tolbert?

Who? Mike has immerged as a legitimate threat as a RB. He played incredible for SD the last 2 years with Ryan Matthews injury woes. But going to Carolina? They now have D.Williams, J.Stewart, and Tolbert. Rumour has it they will trade injury plagued J.Stewart.

The rest of the QB exchange

a) Matt Flynn

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that Matt Flynn went to Seattle. Yes it's a lot of $ for a guy who has only played 2 meaningful games so far. But it's a massive upgrade for a Seahawk team who DESPERATELY needs a QB. Let's give Flynn some credit, even though he was drafted in the 7th rd and Brohom in the 2nd rd he's the one that has impressed the GB Packers and stayed. Plus there is no QB in GB history that has thrown for 6 td's in 1 game. Not Favre, not Rodgers, and not legend Bart Starr. I know he's not going to have all the same quality of weapons but he's going to improve their passing game and signing M.Lynch was MASSIVE to competing in their division and the NFC. Matt's going to love the fans and the stadium. I think he's going to do well there. It's his time to shine.

b) Chad Henne

The Jackonsville Jaguars picked up a veteran in C.Henne to help the team to be competitive and develop B.Gabbert.

New owner Shad Khan is very passionate about football and turning this franchise around. So there's no surprise he was involved in the Tim Tebow race but lost out to the fact that his team is not near as competitive as the Jets. It's not good for the Jags but that's life. Henne isn't the answer and they are hoping Gabbert becomes a great QB. I feel bad for MJD. Amazing talent on a terrible team.

c) Alex Smith

So Alex is all upset with the 49ers because they were interested in Peyton Manning. DUDE, get over it! This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and if Peyton had gone to SF they would be the odds on favourite to win the SB. Alex you should have taken that 1st offer that the 49ers offered you which was more than fair. It's not like you have been stellar for the 49ers. This was your best season by far. SF fans are still wishing they drafted Aaron 'the best QB in the league' Rodgers. Maybe the best tweet I saw on this lately is this:

@ZaslowShow Alex Smith being mad at the Niners is funny. Before this past season, I'm pretty sure the Niners were mad at Alex Smith for 6 years.

d) Miami

What are the Dolphins doing? Matt Moore and David Garrad??? My guess is they will draft a QB at #8 and it's probably going to be Tannehill.

The Saints got pwn'd

The NFL Commissioner came down hard on the New Orleans Saints today and rightly so. After a through investigation, it was determined that the Saints for the last 3 years had a bounty system in place. They were rewarding players for big hits and injuring players. Supposedly they were even targeting to injury certain opponents.

It's insane and unacceptable that this is happening.

The league has suspended Saints coach Sean Payton for this season, the GM Mickey Loomis for the 1st 8 games, and former def coordinator, Gregg Williams, who now works for the Rams indefinitely. Also the team has been fined $500,000 and loses it's 2nd rd draft picks for the next 2 years.

Why such a harsh hammer? Well it has been going on for 3 years, it's totally unacceptable, and they were trying to hide it.

Tim Tebow

With Petyon Manning arriving in Denver it meant the departure of beloved Tim Tebow. Tebow has become a icon this last season and his jersey sales were #2. Not bad for a guy who hasn't played a full year yet.

So Tebow gets traded to the Jets for a 4th and 6th rd pick. I don't think this is great for Tim. And I'm surprised the Jets traded for Tim after they signed M.Sanchez to a BIG 3 yr contract extension. This is going to cause a massive controversy in the Big Apple.

I love what Tony Dungy tweeted today,

We'll see if Tim Tebow can help Rex Ryan with his language? I know he welcomes the challenge!

I think he needs to go to a team where he will start. What I love about Tebow is his positive attitude, his leadership skills, his love for his teammates, and he's a winner! But the Jets have him and I am cheering that he becomes the starting QB soon.

This has been the best Free Agency in NFL history! Loving it. Can't wait for the draft!!!

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it.

Relax people it's Zack Kassian!

Okay so I was panicking a few days ago after trading my boy Hodgson away. But I am finding people are still losing it. We need to take a deep breathe and relax.

We can't judge this trade after 1 game. I do think we have downgraded talent wise losing Hodgson but Zack Kassian brings a whole new skill set. He's a big guy with some grit and has good hands for a big guy. The site I said he's 230 pds he's more like 215-220. I have seen everything from 230 to 214 to 228 to 220...can someone get this guy a weight scale? haha

Here's some interesting things about Zack:

- He was drafted 13th overall in the 2009 entry draft. Goons don't get drafted at 13 overall. He's got some skill to him.

- He won a silver medal with Team Canada.

- He won a Memorial Cup with the Windsor Spitfires.

- He just turned 21. We got to give this kid some time to develop.

- He was #54 with Buffalo (Derrick Roy has #9), #19 with Windsor (I don't want to see any Canuck wearing Naslunds old #), and #9 with Team Canada. As weird as it seems with him wearing Cody's old number at least if you have Hodgson's jersey you only need to change the name on the back. haha By the way Hodgson is #19 with the Sabres.

And the fact is he's only going to get what Hodgson got for minutes any way (like 10-15 minutes of ice time a night). It's not like we traded Kesler or the Sedin twins. We traded a 3rd line C for a 3rd line winger. Granted Hodgson is good enough to play on the 2nd line with Buffalo but he's not going to be stealing minutes from Kelser. But the fact is Hodgson is gone and Kassian is here to stay so we need to get over it. Plus moves Canuck GM Gillis did in the past I have questioned before but I was wrong and he was right. That's why he's the GM and I am not. I trust our GM. I just loved watching Hodgson and I was going to buy his jersey.

My suggestion is keep Kassian in the lineup for the rest of the season to give him the experience he needs and play him in a limited role in the playoffs. You never know he might surprise us all with his talent not just his toughness.

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it.

Canucks trade Hodgson???

So the trade deadline has come and gone...and frankly, it was the lamest one I have ever experienced. Rich Nash didn't move which was and was not surprising. The Blue Jackets were obviously asking way too much. Supposedly it came down to the Rangers and the Sharks but neither were willing to give what Columbus required.

As for the rest of the day it was super lame until the last deal came through which caused a MASSIVE stir for Canuck and Sabre fans.

I got to admit I hated this deal when it happened and if you were following me on twitter or my friend on facebook you got that LOUD and CLEAR. The main reason is that Cody Hodgson is one of my favourite Canucks and I am shocked that they traded such a young skilled athlete. But I have calmed down and I will try my best to look at this with a clear, honest, in the best interest of the Canucks mindset.

The deal was 2 separate trades but together it looks like this: Buffalo received Hodgson and Sulzer; Vancouver received Kassian and Gragnani.

What I love about Cody Hodgson:

He's only 22 and has lots of tools already to be a great player in the next 5 years. He was a key guy to Team Canada's success in the World Juniors. When John Tavares was in his final year in Jr's it was Hodgson who won the MVP. He's already played in the playoffs and will improve as he continues to play in those crucial games. This year he's logged huge minutes and played in 63 games.

Plus I love this goal he scored vs Boston this year! Click this link to watch: Best Hodgson goal yet!!! The Sabres must be thrilled to get such a young talent.

Here's what the Canucks got in return:

Zack Kassian is a very good young player. Many people love this kid. He's played for Team Canada, he's only 21 but Zack is a monster! 230 pds this guy is Eric Lindros big. The NHL has changed we don't need a goon we need toughness. Does he have the hands like Neeley, Lindros, or Bertuzzi did at 21? He's a winger that Vancouver needs.

Something you may or may not know, Kassian was drafted #13 overall in the 2009 Tavares, Hedman, Duchene draft.

Here's some of his highlights since he's been with Buffalo...Kassian is TOUGH.

My concerns:

1) Are we trading skill for toughness? Makes me worried about the Naslund for Stojanov deal the Canucks won years ago. Will he be the next Lindros (doubt it), Neeley (not likely), or Bertuzzi (possibly)???

2) Experience. He has no playoff experience yet.

3) He's only played 28 games on Sabres team that is less skilled than Vancouver. How many games will he be playing with the Canucks?

4) Going into the playoffs does this help Vancouver or hurt them? What happens if Kesler or H.Sedin get hurt does Pahlsson get in the #2 C spot? I hope not as I would rather have Malhotra be in that spot.

5) I worry he's a hitter and nothing else. Zack please prove me wrong!!!

The other player we got was Marc-Andre Gragnani. This guy might be the key to this deal. Only 24 years old he's got 7 games of playoff experience scoring 7 pts in those games. Supposedly he good puck moving defensemen who can play now.

I get the argument we need more toughness for the playoffs and truly I get that but I wish we would have moved Raymond instead. I get we needed another winger than another C. I get that H.Sedin and Kesler make it tough for him to break the top 6. I just wish we had traded Raymond for a guy who's got more playoff experience in Steve Ott. Rumour has it that was offered to Dallas but the Stars declined.

I hope for the Canuck fans sake this is a great deal.

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it.

If I was the GM of the...

The trade deadline is this Monday. Ever wish you could be a fly on the wall in some of those war rooms where they are discussing deals? What would you do if you were the GM of a NHL franchise? Would you gamble or play it safe?

This is what I would do:

If I was the GM of the...Dallas Stars, I would not be moving a guy like Ott as you are in the playoffs right now. Ott is a playoff guy with tons of experience. They need some scoring because the Ribeiro, Ryder, and Eriksson line can't score all the goals. Morrow is definitely missed.

If I was the GM of the...LA Kings I would not have traded Jack Johnson and a 1st round pick for J.Carter. I think that was too much. Johnson straight up for sure. Johnson was the #3 overall pick in the Crosby draft. I would see what the value is for Dustin Brown but not be seeking to move him too quickly. He's your captain but 35 pts isn't getting it done.

If I was the GM of the...Blue Jackets, I would be SELLING. You are the worst team in the league. I wouldn't trade Nash unless I got something significant in return. You can trade him in the off season but milk the trade deadline for all it's worth. If you could get an upgrade at goaltender, young prospects or draft picks, and some players that can play today.

If I was the GM of the...Lightning, I would be seeking a goalie ASAP. Roloson and Garon are not good enough to get anything done. TB has a great offense who has the potential to make some noise in the playoffs if they had a better goaltender.

If I was the GM of the...Leafs, I would be making a huge push for Nash. The only problem is he's a winger and they need a good C. Free Agency could help with that problem. Also I would be looking for a new goalie. As much as I like Reimer, he's not getting it done yet. I would move Luke Schenn for the right deal that will help you now. He's getting $4.6 million as a 22 year old.

If I was the GM of the...Oilers, I would be kicking myself for signing Hemsky for another 2 years for $5 million each! He's only worth that when healthy and that's the problem. This guy has been injury for 3 years straight. You don't want to waste all that money as he sits on the sideline watching most of the games.

If I was the GM of the...Canucks, I would not do much. I would add a playoff guy like Ott or another #6 D for depth. I would not be moving Schneider unless I could get Nash in return. I would move Raymond has he's young and fast but seems to have long streaks without any points on the board (as I type this he scores vs Dallas haha).

If I was the GM of the...Flames and we didn't make the playoffs I would blow it up. It's been too many years of missing the playoffs. 9 or 10th every year gets you bad draft position and false hope that you got a chance.

If I was the GM of the...Senators, I'd be happy I just picked up Bishop. Anderson should be back for the playoffs but until Bishop will help.

If I was the GM of the...Predators, I would be trying everything to get Rick Nash. They NEED offense.

If I was the GM of the...Canadiens, I would do nothing. Wait until the free agency and improve your team in the draft.

If I was the GM of the...Capitals, Semin would be traded. Too much $ for little production. I know they have lots of problems there but if Backstrom was healthy I think they would be in the playoffs. He's a great passer and makes his teammates better.

If I was the GM of the...Sharks, I would be making a meeting with the team and having a heart to heart with the team. SJ is better than they have been playing lately.

If I was the GM of the...Jets, I would be pretty happy that they have a chance to make the playoffs. This team is not that good yet and it's going to take another year or two before they are going to make some noise. My philosophy is, "Make the playoffs because you never know what can happen."

I think there will be a lot of deals made tomorrow but more importantly there will be deals that are not done that will make the biggest difference.

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it.

2012 NHL Trade Deadline

Here's my take about the trade deadline day coming up this Feb 27th. I love this day as so many deals happen. If you are in a fantasy pool with me you know I am the "Trading King". I love to trade for the sake of trading. I have won many deals and lost quite a few as well. Predicting the future is so difficult because there are so many factors. Like making a trade today isn't just one for one but it involves the salary cap, whether GM's are willing to take the risk, and who would be playing on what line.

Let's talk about the biggest name flying around. Supposedly Rick Nash is willing to waive his no trade clause and has given a list of teams he's open to.

According to THE SCORE today, he has short-listed it to 5 teams. Boston, Toronto, SJ, LA, and NYR. Really?

Okay I can understand the Bruins as they look to repeat.

But Toronto? I guess playing with Lupul and Kessel might be the draw but who's playing C? And isn't Nash from that area? But the 'Leaves' (Leafs is incorrect) aren't in a playoff spot if it started today.

SJ makes sense because of these 4 things: 1) Beaches in California 2) The BIG City of LA is near by 3) Getting passes from Joe who's one of the best 4) SJ has a good team that is contending.

LA? Yes they are the BIG CITY in California and you can go watch Kobe & Blake Griffin but their team has struggled. If you want to miss the playoffs go to LA.

The Rangers...come on Rick. If you want your talent to be cut in half then go to the BIG Apple. These guys as good as they are, find ways to choke.

Why wouldn't Vancouver be on that list? You should be begging to go to the Canucks and have a shot of getting great passes from the twins. He might score 40 goals in the last 20 games. I don't think Vancouver will make a deal for Nash but Raymond and Schneider would help restart the building process in Columbus.

My guess is he goes to San Jose.

(Feb 18th, this just in...Darren Dreger off TSN just reported that Philly pulled out of the Nash sweepstakes. Supposedly the Bluejackets are asking for "JVR, Bobrovski, B.Schenn or Couturier" and YES that is too much especially for a guy who's making over $7 million a year)

On Hockey Night in Canada's Hotstove segment they said the 'list' for Nash is shrinking. "Vancouver, NY Rangers, and Boston are all out." Sounds like Columbus is asking for a top end goalie like Rask/Schneider and a bunch of guys off the roster. Rick might end up in Carolina or Winterpeg. haha OR the more likely possibility now is traded in the offseason or under new management not at all. A lot of hype for nothing.

Another name we are hearing a lot lately (probably because I live in Canada) is Luke Schenn. This guy is 22 but not producing. Do you really think Brian Burke is going to move this kid? The problem is he's making WAY too much coin. $4.6 million that young was unwise. Don't get me wrong I am a Brian Burke fan. I love his honesty and the way he does hockey. His resume says it all, as he was key in helping rebuild Vancouver and took the Ducks to win the Cup. Burke will deal him if the payoff is right but I can't see too many teams wanting to dance with Toronto on this one quite yet.

The biggest anticipation in Vancouver is what are the Canucks going to do with 2 #1 goalies? HERE'S MY PREDICTION....drum roll please...nothing. I know lame. But I have this feeling we are not going to move Luongo because no one wants his salary, length of contract, and the way he was inconsistent in the playoffs. Plus Luo controls his own destiny with his no trade clause and will not be approving deals to Columbus any time soon.

Schneider, trust me LOTS of teams want him but they won't pony up because they think they can sign him this off season. But Corey is a RFA not a UFA. So if a team offers him $4 million or more I believe the Canucks get 3 1st round draft picks. He's worth $4 million. He's got ice in his veins and the mechanics to be successful. TB should be beating down Gillis' door for Corey.

I believe the Canucks are better with Schneider. They have a better shot at winning the Cup this year. What if Luongo gets hurt or struggles like he did last year? Or if they start Luo for all the home games and Schneider for all the road games and Van wins the Cup.

Here's a wild theory: If they in fact, keep Corey and want to trade Luongo but can't because he won't give up his no trade clause or other teams don't offer enough, when the playoffs start go with Corey through thick and thin. Win or lose. Let Luongo stay on the bench and get so frustrated that he demands a trade in the offseason. Sign Schneider and move Luongo. Of course easier said than done.

So what are the Canucks going to do at the deadline? Not much...they got a really good team who has another shot of making a significant run. Everyone needs more depth and I think that's what they are going to do, add some D depth and maybe another 3rd line forward in case of injury. If they move someone it could be Raymond who is young and fast.

Of course I could be wrong but I doubt it. Looking forward to the 27th!!! Let the trading begin.