PR - Wheat Kings

We Three Kings
Gonchar, Samsanov and O'Marra Join Wheaties

As the season passes out of its first quarter and with the Wheat Kings mired among the mediocre of the West, Coach-GM Tyler Young decided to offer Wheat-watchers a bit of an early Christmas gift.

Dispatching Alexei Shkotov, Jakubs Redlihs and Chuck Kobasew to the Brantford Bobcats, the Kings have added Sergei Gonchar, Sergei Samsonov and Ryan O'Marra.

"This is a heckuva trade to pull-off in the middle of the season," Mr. Young commented to the media tonight, "I can't begin to tell you how excited I am to add these guys. Gonchar is one of the few premier defencemen in the league, a former Norris winner, Samsonov has been a consistent point producer for years and has great experience, and O'Marra shows great promise as an playmaking center."

"Sure we gave up a lot, especially in youth, but we have quite a young team and we felt we could afford it. Now my hope is that this deal will shake us out of the malaise we've been in so far and put us into a safe (if there is such a thing in the West) playoff position."

Cynics might suggest that Mr. Young was forced into such a move by dealing away his first rounder this year and is just digging the hole deeper, giving up more youth, but he defended himself against the charge:

"The core remains in place, we're still quite young, in fact I think we were too young. A deal like this adds more depth to our organization in respect to experience and leadership, it gives us valuable intangibles."

PR - Ignite

Indy Looks to Ignite Offense

The typical Ignite season usually looks somthing like this: Teams scores loads of goals. Team allows loads of goals. Team loses early in playoffs due to
lack of defense. In the offseason, Indianapolis GM Adam Harrison looked for remedies to this issue, and managed to find a combination of defensemen
to this point, have kept the goals against low. Amongst the top few teams in the league defensively this year, it is the offensive this year that seems
to be the real let down. "I'm not sure if its the line combinations, the talent on the team or what", team captain Jerome Iginla said. "I think we really
have a good combination of forwards who can score but it just hasn't been happening for us."

Not content being mired in mediocraty, GM Harrison started his search for some offensive firepower. In a deal with the Misconduct (NOW WAAAAYYY!!!),
the Ignite shipped off free agent let down, Brooks Orpik and his 8 million dollar contract, along with long time Ignite winger Patrick Marleau and a 2nd rd
pick to the Misconduct for two offensive talents in Sami Kapanen and Blair Betts as well as young prospect Vladamir Ulianov and a few late round picks.
"We decided that the contract we signed Orpik to in the offseason was too much for what he was giving us, and thought he would be the perfect trade
bait to acquire some goal scoring", stated Harrison. While Kapanen has been a perenial talent for much of his career, Betts has played the journeyman
role recently, hoping now that he has found a home in Indy. "I think we have the type of talent to contend on any night now", said Betts, "as long as we
find some chemistry early and get this ship sailing."

The Ignite organization knows that there may be some initial growing pains early, but are optimistic that they will improve and return to one of the
better teams in the East once again.

Indianapolis Chronicle

PR - Saints

The New Saskatoon Saints: A Member of the TFHL Elite

It’s now TFHL 19: the Saskatoon Saints and GM Geoffrey Young are an established part of a long TFHL history. The league was founded in 1993 and has weathered fourteen years – give or take a few months here and there – in which hundreds of GM’s have come and gone; and a dozen Commissioners have led the league through varying trials and triumphs. In a recent interview with this Saskatoon StarPhoenix reporter, GM Geoffrey Young nostalgically mused on his six years and eleven seasons in the TFHL. The Saints this season have started their best season in franchise history and are, without question, one of the elite teams in the TFHL. Their top line of Higgins, Paille and Kovalchuk, along with Ballard on defense, is the number one offensive line this season. Management has expressed its expectation and intention to win the Eastern Conference Title this season, and realizes how important conference games will be. At home in Saskatoon, the Saints have gone 8-0-0.

Geoffrey Young: “I got involved with the TFHL after my brother became GM of a struggling team that he would go on to rename the Saskatchewan Wheat Kings. After a couple months of watching and learning from his rookie mistakes – David Easton rip-off deals and other ‘fantasy hockey league’ conventions of humiliation – I decided to apply to join the league. So in TFHL 8 I took over the Mirkava Mutants and moved them to Saskatoon, renaming them the Saints. Of course, in an apprenticeship befitting of an older brother, Tyler introduced me to the essentials of league rules and politics in the traditional TFHL manner: over the course of the next few seasons, I was the most active GM in the league. I remember one trade my brother and I made which involved four teams and over 20 players as well as twice as many picks: We were cowboys! And our season performance reflected that.

When the league switched simulators, everything I had built was erased; but it was an opportunity to start from square one. This meant trading and drafting: two things I enjoy most.

Now after a few seasons, I have built a foundation on a few core players. The Spezza for Higgins trade might have been the cornerstone to the current franchise edifice. Around Higgins, I have compiled about 8 players, all currently around the mid-twenties age range, and I have been patient with them in their developing years. Now I believe it’s the make or break point for our team. Last season was our first semblance of playoff success, losing in the second round to the Aces in a hard-fought seven game series. But we are no beyond our ‘rebuilding years:’ now I expect results. I hope the fans in Saskatoon are excited about what they’ve already seen at home and they can expect their team to do anything to bring home our first franchise Championship.”

The Saskatoon Saints defeated their arch-rivals, the Calgary Hurricanes, today 6-3. The league has changed; the TFHL elite are admitting new members.

PR - Pontiacs: Eastern Conference Preview

Eastern Conference Preseason Analysis:

As another season begins, let us take a look at how the Eastern Conference teams have prepared themselves for TFHL season 19.


Bobcats:

Offense: The Bobcats have performed consistently well over the past several seasons, including capturing the conference title two years in a row. Naslund and Artemenkov should be key players in the Bobcat offense but don't could out other players like Samsonov, Kolanos and Ellison. They have a lot of depth and they have proven that they know how to use that depth effectively.
Grade: A-

Defense: This team has a very solid defense led by Sergei Gonchar. This team may very well have the best defense in the conference and expect them to make it difficult for other teams to get the puck past Nabokov.
Grade: A-

Goaltending: Nabokov should give them the confidence this team requires in the net and the free agency signing of Hnilicka has given them a compentent backup for the season.
Grade: B+

Overall Grade: A-


Saints:

Offense: The Saints have built themselves up to be an offensive powerhouse. Having several of the top goal scorers from last season, it is pretty safe to assume that they will once again cause sunburns to appear on the backs of the necks of rival goaltenders. Higgins will once again lead the team's offense but he will have the assistance of Kovalchuk, Paille, Arnott and many others.
Grade: A

Defense: The Saints' powerful offense has caused a weak spot in their defense. While Baranka, Ballard and Rozakov will be strong on the blueline, they will have difficulty when they are not on the ice.
Grade: B-

Goaltending: Rask has developed into a solid goaltender and should give the Saint's the security they need in the net to be be successful.
Grade: B+

Overall Grade: B+


Ignite:

Offense: Do I have to say it? Jerome Iginla. Look to him to be the star and leader of this team once again. While this team has other talent, the Ignite will have to rely heavily on Iginla's performance. Tambellini, Allison and Desautels will also have to play well, but all in all, this team's offense is in pretty good shape.
Grade: B+

Defense: The Ignite defense is fairly well rounded and balanced, but it lacks a clear leader. Will Gauthier, Orpik or Goc be able to step up to fill that role?
Grade: B-

Goaltending: Fleury is a good goalie that should be able to save the defense when necessary. If Fleury can play at the top of his game, this team should have no problem winning their fair share of games. Hopefully, Enroth will be able to save him if he falters.
Grade: A-

Overall Grade: B+


Marauders:

Offense: The Marauder offense lacks the depth of many other teams in the league. They will have to rely Gordon, Fehr, Peca and Alfredsson to pick up the slack and provide much needed leadership for the team in the scoring department.
Grade: B-

Defense: The Marauder defense is, perhaps, there strongest area. With Kosmachev, Regehr and Chara at the point supported by other solid defenders, their defense should be the determining factor on the amount of success that they have this season.
Grade: A-

Goaltending: Martin Brodeur is an experienced goalie who should provide the team with solid backing. However, the team better hope that he doesn't get injured or tired too quickly, because Esche and Pogge would have a very difficult time filling his shoes.
Grade: B

Overall Grade: B


Spirit:

Offense: It is no secret that the Spirit are a defensive team, Steen, Dvorak, Little and Fisher make it hard for other teams to get much offense going. However, they will have to rely on Hossa, O'Neill and Kovalev to pick up the slack in the scoring department. The Spirit have a balanced offense that should perform well in most situations.
Grade: A-

Defense: The Spirit's blueline looks a little weak going into this season. Phaneuf will have to be the leader in that department, and hopefully for the Spirit, he is up to the challenge. Fortunately for the Spirit, their defensive forwards should help pick up the slack.
Grade: B-

Goaltending: The Spirit have a strong combination with Salo and Turco between the pipes. Salo should provide them with quality goaltending, while Turco will give them the assurance they need when Salo is on the bench.
Grade: B+

Overall Grade: B


Pontiacs:

Offense: The Pontiac offense will find its leadership in Fritsche, Johansson and Roenick. They are a young team that should find the experience of Roenick and Palffy invaluable. However, the team still lacks the offensive punch of many of its rivals.
Grade: B

Defense: The Pontiac defense does not look phenomenal but neither does it look weak. While the Stuarts and Coburn are the definite leaders on defense, there appears to be no gaping holes for other teams to exploit.
Grade: B+

Goaltending: The Pontiacs will be relying heavily upon Teemu Hovinen again this year, but, much like other teams in this conference, they lack a quality backup. Hovinen and Dupont also lack the experience of other goaltending combos, having both been drafted only at the beginning of last season.
Grade: B

Overall Grade: B


Owls:

Offense: Thornton and Sullivan will probably be the team leaders in points, but they have a lot of depth on offense that shouldn't limit them. Their acquisition of Sackrison should be a powerful asset to the team's performance this season.
Grade: B+

Defense: The Owls' defense has been led my Bouwmeester for the past few seasons and expect his leadership to play a major role again this season. Their defense is not as stunning as others we have seen but it is well balanced and should provide the team with relative security in their own zone.
Grade: B-

Goaltending: Auld and Luongo are an impressive 1-2 combination. Luongo could play as a starter on other teams in the league but here he will probably be on the bench as Auld's backup. They should give the Owls' forwards peace of mind that their backs are covered.
Grade: B+

Overall Grade: B


Aces:

Offense: The Aces' possess solid depth up front with Bertuzzi, Walter, Madano, Gaborik and Demitra. If the team is able to gel together then I think this team could put a lot of points on the board.
Grade: B+

Defense: Keith and Picard will be heading up the Aces' defense. They will receive some support, but they will need to pick up the slack for some of their comrades on defense.
Grade: B

Goaltending: The Aces' have the best 1-2-3 combination in the league, however, it is logical to assume that one of them will be moving, if the trade rumours are accurate. In truth, they have no need for three goalies of Pitton, Vokoun and Denis's character but whatever combination they retain should still provide them with a solid presence between the pipes.
Grade: B

Overall Grade: B


Hurricanes:

Offense: The Hurricane offense should put some pucks in the net, but these goals should come from a wide spectrum of players. While Svitov and King will be key leaders for the team on the ice, look to see the whole team getting their share of goals.
Grade: B

Defense: Their defense is by no means spectacular, but it should get the job done. Hamrlik and Redden will be expected to lead the Hurricane defense but each pair should be able to stand up for themselves.
Grade: B-

Goaltending: Once again Boucher will be the uncontested #1 goalie for the Hurricanes, but will GM Derek Major pull up Jeremy Smith to replace Schneider as backup? For this we will have to wait and see. Boucher will do the job, but the absence of a solid backup could be a problem.
Grade: B

Overall Grade: B


Mustangs:

Offense: What can I say? The defending TFHL Champions have a great offense with great depth. The can put together three lines that compare to many teams first line. But, we shall see if Nash, Crosby and Baranov can be the catalysts towards another TFHL Championship.
Grade: A

Defense: Here is another fairly well rounded defense, This should provide the team with good coverage in their own end. Expect Chistov, Jovanovski and Waugh to be their defensive leaders.
Grade: B+

Goaltending: Here is the Young Guns achilles heal. With the loss of Jose Theodore to Free Agency, the Young Guns have a gaping hole between the pipes. It is unlikely that Montoya and Dubielewicz can hope to fill the hole left by Theodore. Expect the Young Guns to be in the market for a starting goalie early in the seaon.
Grade: C

Overall Grade: B


Rednex:

Offense: Look to see Lindstrom, Brent and Nilsson heading up the offense for the Rednex. It looks as if they will have to carry the brunt of the offensive load. The rest of their offensive squad will have a difficult time making much of a contribution considering the defensive talent in the league.
Grade: B-

Defense: The Rednex defense seems to be in much the same shape as the offense. Ohlund and Bodnarchuk will be expected to pull more than their fair share of the wait on the blueline.
Grade: C+

Goaltending: The Rednex' Johnson/Vincent combo should provide adequate protection between the pipes. They will be expected to pick up the slack from the defense.
Grade: B

Overall Grade: B-


Misconduct:

Offense: The Misconduct has their work cut out for them this year. Lindros will have to provide some much needed leadership for the team to be successful this year on the offensive front. Look to Havlat, Cole and Eaves to pick up their game to provide some necessary points for the team.
Grade: C+

Defense: The Misconduct's biggest weakness is their defense. Tselios will be expected to provide the leadership on defense that the team is lacking, but is he up to the challenge and is he able to fill those shoes? Look for the Misconduct testing out their farm prospects to try to fill the gaps in their roster.
Grade: C-

Goaltending: The team's strength this year will definitely be in their goaltending. Bryzgalov and Cloutier should provide solid coverage between the pipes. With Ridderwall as a good third goalie, they should be able to give Bryzgalov and Cloutier the rest they need to remain consistently on top of their game.
Grade: B+

Overall Grade: C+


Season Prediction:
Once again it looks like the Saints, Bobcats and Ignite will be competing for the Conference Title. The Mauraders, Pontiacs, Spirit, Hurricanes, Owls, Aces, and Mustangs will be competing for the final five playoff spots, while the Rednex struggle to stay ahead of the Misconduct from being at the bottom. However, only time will tell if my predictions and analysis is correct but it looks as if the Eastern Conference is getting increasingly more competitive each year.

PR - Fog Devils

*The opening segment of "Off The Record" on TSN runs and we see Michael Landsberg sitting with the GM of the Fog Devils Jon Osbonre and Head Coach Paul Maurice.

ML: Welcome everyone to "Off The Record" I'm Michael Landsberg, your Host, and Welcome to our week on the THFL. With me today and the GM and the new Head Coach of the Fog Devils franchise. Jon Osborne and Paul Maurice. Welcome Gentlemen.

JO & PM: Thank you

ML: Jon, let me start with you, how do you feel about the assets you have given Paul Maurice to work with and improve the club this season.

JO: I think Paul has a good team to work with this season. He has a team under him that was one win away from the THFL final last season, we were underdogs, no one really expected us to make the play offs let alone go to the seventh game of the semi finals. So he has a quality players to come in and implement his system and try and get us to the next step.

ML: Well, you have received some criticism during this off season about the lack of free agent signings, can you speak to that?

JO: Well Michael, we did obtain Chris Phillips and are happy with the addition he will make to our club, many have said we overpaid but we felt he had the stats and excelled in the areas we need to have a solid crop of defensemen this year. As far as our inactivity, I would not say we were inactive, a lot of the players we needed were RFA'S and the teams matched the bid. We were in the Bure bidding war and Pavel made a decision to go with another club. We had lots of bids out and were able to sign Matts Sundin again, despite him hitting the free agent market. He knows the quality organization we are and believes in it so much he was willing to take a pay cut to be here. So to be honest I am happy with where we are right now and our performance in the off season. But time is the only teller of how well teams did, and at the end of the season, its only then we'll know who had the best off-season.

ML: Paul, when you were announced as head coach, you mentioned in the press conference that there was a lot of work to do, what have you been doing with the team in training camp.

PM: The first thing any new coach has to do when he comes into an organization is review a lot of tape so he can get to know his players and they tendicies and the pro's and con's of their game. In training camp it's getting to know the player more personally, how far you can push em, what's gonna help motivate that particular player, what he'll respond to, whether that's yelling and screaming, or giving him a pat on the back.

ML: What are some key factors of the Fog Devils team from last year that you like, and some factors you will work to correct.

PM: I am very impressed with our special teams play. We had the leagues best penalty kill last year and a top 10 power play ranking. So obliviously they are going to be areas I want to reinforce and make sure we continue to do well. What I am really want to improve on this team is the 5 on 5 play. There were way to many players last year in the minus category for plus/minus. We need to keep smart and play well when its 5 on 5 , not just do it when we're under pressure on special teams. So I think motivating these guys when its 5 on 5 is something I am going to have to work on. But more or less I am happy thus far with the performances in training camp.

ML: Name some players that are really impressing you?

PM: Dubnyk is picking up right from where he left off last season, he is in good form and he will be our started this year. Sam Gagner is impressing me, for such a young kid he has an amazing raw talent. He is very comfortable playing at this level. I don't know that from a development stand point that it would be smart to play him up here this year, but if we get hit with some injuries, look to see him in the line up.

ML: Jon, rumors are swirling that you have been receiving some interesting offers for Dan Sprang and Jocelyn Thibault, are you shopping these players around.\?

JO: No, I am not shopping them around, but if the right deal comes along that will improve this hockey club I'd be stupid not to listen. Dan is a great defenseman, always in position and a great defender in our zone, and Joycelyn was a big part in getting us to where we went last season and helped develop Dubnyk so quickly. That being said there are some areas of the team I am looking to make stronger so like I said if I get approached with the right deal, I will make it.

ML: Thank you guys for an interesting show, look forward to having you back sometime soon

JO &PM: Thank you


*show goes to commercial*

PR - Ignite

Indy Hoping for Breakout Year

As Iggy and the Ignite head into training camp at the Bic Pyro Center to prepare for the upcoming TFHL season, there is a great deal optimism in the dressing room due to several new acquisitions.
"There is certainly a lot to be happy about this year", said captain Jerome Iginla. "We have the core of our team back from last year, and have addressed areas that were of concern from last season".

The team has added depth to the defense core, were problems occured last year. The key free agent signing was defenceman Brooks Orpik, who is a young, all around d man.
"I'm really happy to be here with a team that is willing to do what it takes to win. They lost last year in the second round to the eventual Cup champs, so I am just hoping that I can provide some solid play
to get over that hump." In addition to adding Orpik, the Ignite have also brought in depth on the blue line with Bryan Berard, Rhett Warrener and Drew Schiestel. "Well the thought was that we
needed to bring in some guys who could soak up some minutes, and be counted on in case of any injury issues. When asked about the new additions, GM Harrison said, "We had a lot of injuries last
season and it really exposed a weakness. I feel as though we should be much better this year on the back end, and with our high powered offense back in tact, we should have more tallies in the
win column this season."

The Ignite weren't content on just adding defensive talent however, bringing in a few veteran forwards who offer a mix of scoring, veteran leadership, and puck smarts. New faces are Tuomo Ruutu
and Brendan Morrow who should bolster a fairly confident group up front. Veteran forward Jason Allison feels as though the team as a whole is getting better. "The main difference to me is that the young
guys are getting a lot better and looking ready to help lead this team. Tambellini has really impressed me and resigning him for 4 more years was a great move. Also, our man Marc between the pipes has
really improved and I think he will help carry us this year." With his career in it's twilight, Allison mentioned his desire to win sooner rather than later. "I'm getting lots of grey in my beard and I want to
taste victory once before I hang 'em up. I just hope that this team has what it takes."

GM NOTES: While GM Adam Harrison is content starting the season with the team he's got, he did mention that he would be interested in adding some more scoring to a team that finds growing competition
each year in the East. "I would be willing to deal some depth players, farm players or even some draft choices for one or two good forwards who can put the puck in the net. Any offers are welcome!"

Indianapolis Daily News

PR - Pontiacs

The offseason saw a major shakeup on the Pontiacs' roster. Key players like Eric Cole, and Daniel Paille were traded and David Legwand didn't even stay long enough to play a game. In fact, the only team to be involved in more trades than the Pontiacs during the offseason was the Misconduct with whom three of the deals were made.

GM Andrew Schoenberger's work has brought some important depth and experience to the team. Many felt that the team was too young and lacked experience and could greatly benefit from the presence of influential veterans. In response to this need, Andrew Schoenberger was able to acquire Zigmund Palffy at the end of last season and within the last week Jeremy Roenick and Brad Stuart. "These players will give us the leadership that we've been looking for." Schoenberger was quoted as saying.

Another area that was quite weak at the end of last season was defense. Schoenberger was quoted as saying that, "Trading Ivan Baranka was one of the hardest things that I have had to do in this position, as General Manager, he was the core of our defense, but the numerous injuries faced by our team last season required me to act and try to fill the holes." However, the offseason saw the Pontiacs acquire Nicholas Boynton, Brad Stuart and Teemu Laakso who should provide much needed depth to the Pontiac defense, however, this came at the cost of sending young Alex Biega to the Bobcats.

Other key acquisitions for the team were Patrick Dwyer, Jani Rita and Richard Zednik. It is hoped that the added depth that these players will contribute will launch the team into the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, which they missed by only a hair last season.

Pontiac stars Danny Fritsche, Jonas Johannson, Mark Stuart, Braydon Coburn, and Teemu Hovinen will be remaining with the team as this season begins.

When asked why he felt that they missed the playoffs last season, GM Andrew Schoenberger said, "Well I am not much for making excuses, but the fact that many of our key players were either injured or in the penalty box most of the time did not help the situation very much, but I am hopeful that this season will be different."

The Bonnyville Pontiacs have also announced that they will be hosting a "Meet the Players" event this Saturday afternoon so that fans can come and meet both the new and old additions to their favourite team.

PR - Wheat Kings

OFF-SEASON MEET AND GREET

After missing the playoffs last season as defending TFHL Champions, Wheat-watchers were no doubt curious as to which direction the team would go this off-season: would there be a major shake-up? Significant FA signings? Who would come and who would go?

Perhaps suprisingly, Kings management responded with a series of relatively quiet moves which were designed to substantially improve the team without giving-up any major assets. Sunday the team called a conference to introduce the newly crowned Wheat Kings to the media and to discuss the upcoming season.

Joining the team are former Hart Trophy winner Peter Forsberg, one-time 80 point man Alexei Shkotov, long time Ace Dominic D'Amour, and offensive d-men Karel Rachunek and Jesse Lane.

Forsberg signed a two-year $30 million deal, the biggest contract in Kings history, but as Mr. Young commented: "I think we managed to grap the best potential UFA on the market this off-season."

"I'm just happy to be coming back to Saskatoon, and the Wheat Kings especially," Forsberg said. "My TFHL career began across town with the Senators [Saints] and then I got traded here half-way through that season."

"This will probably be my last contract and I wanted to end my career with this organization. I really regretted not being part of the championship run, but I knew a lot of the guys here and so I could at least enjoy it for their sake. However, I intend to win it before I retire and with the changes that Mr. Young made this offseason, I think we have as good a shot as any team."

Nevertheless, most of the talk was on the previous season.

"Last year was a wash," Coach-GM Tyler Young began an extended mea culpa, "a lot of things went wrong. We made some major changes in the off-season which were causing problems very early on and it took us nearly the whole season to rectify those issues. Then on top of everything, we had serious injury problems for most of the last two thirds of the season and the Stuart deal caused a total collapse of our defensive system. The whole year it felt like we were in quicksand, and the more we struggled the worse it got."

The good news though for Grain-brains is that the slate is now wiped clean. After only the second time the Kings have missed the playoffs in seven years, the team that will hit the ice opening night is perhaps the best Kings squad since the President Trophy winning team of TFHL14 (which followed the only other season that the Kings have missed the playoffs).

"We do have hopes for this team," Mr. Young noted. "We're expecting that it will be more integrated than last year's group. Our core group, which has already won a Cup, is still intact and getting better. We just pulled in some new guys to fill holes, guys we think will fit our style of play - complement the pieces we already have."

"Yes there are some concerns," he continued, "but we'll see how they play out. The West is only getting tougher - the Raiders for instance have improved substantially this offseason. But if Howard can rediscover his old self and our defence can perform as well as they did in the closing fifteen games of last season, then we should be ok. We just have to get back to our old identity: keep shots against down and grind it out, and hopefully we can add a more commanding offense to that."

NEWS & NOTES: Long time King and former Alka-Seltzer Trophy winner Slava Suchy has decided to retire, meaning that forwards Brad Larsen and Shawn Horcoff are the lone members of the inaugural TFHL12 Wheat Kings still playing for the organization. Horcoff though was traded and re-signed to a minor league contract a couple of seasons later, so only Larsen has played all seven seasons with the Kings... this will be Peter Forsberg's third stint with the Wheat Kings, in his previous two terms he never lasted a full season.

PR - Hurricanes

HURRICANES MAKE MOVE WITH REDDEN ACQUISITION

It's amazing what can happen in a span of two days. The Calgary Hurricanes today announced a trade that will bring Wade Redden back to the Hurricanes. "It's almost like I haven't left." said Redden who was traded at the end of last season and who has not yet played a game for his new team. "I guess the only crappy part is I need to re-buy a house in Calgary. But that's OK, we have a great team there and I am excited to play with them again."

As part of the deal the Hurricanes send goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, Andy Rogers and a first round draft pick to the Misconducts for Wade Redden, goal tending prospect Jeremy Smith, defensive prospect Tysen Dowzak, and a 2nd round draft pick.

"I guess you guys in the press are sick of seeing me on this podium already." joked GM Major. "Its been no secret I wanted to move a goalie. Between Ilya and Brian we wanted to hand the reigns over to one of them. Brian has a chance to run with it again after he did great for us last year and the season he before when he took us to the finals. I have high hopes for Jeremy as he is now our top goaltending prospect. That doesn't mean I've given up on Cory Schneider but those two guys will have to battle it out over the coming years along with Kevin Armstrong. One of those 3 guys will have an opportunity to our starter some day." said Major.

The Hurricanes have immediately solidied their Top 4 pairings which includes Roman Harmlik, Wade Redden, Bryan Mccabe and Robert Schnabel. "When we started to panic a bit it just seems things came together. This is great news for our club." said GM Major.

Calgary Sun

PR - Hurricanes

CALGARY HURRICANES SIGN ROMAN HARMLIK TO 1-YEAR 9.5 MILLION DOLLAR DEAL

Roman Hamrlik just became the highest paid defenseman in the history of the Calgary Hurricanes. The Hurricanes held an earlier press conference to announce the signing.

"Well, on behalf of the Hurricanes organization I'd like to welcome Roman to Calgary. We're a team that is going through transition and Roman wanted a situation that would allow him to continue to play at a high level while also giving him the flexibility of either re-signing, retiring or moving on in his career." Said GM Derek Major in the opening speech.

The Hurricanes took a severe hit in the defensive part of the team. As the team continues to transition from the old guard into the new the defensive corps took the biggest hit. Bryan Mccabe and Brian Leetch are not the players they used to be. Robert Schnabel is the next on the depth chart after Mccabe. Hamrlik walks into the top defensive pairing immediately because of this.

Why the drop in defense?

"To put it plain in simple, we kind of hoped our young guys would have developed faster. Up front we have incredible depth. Our top line (King, Svitov, Sundstrom) are all our own draft picks. Our 2nd and 3rd line units are made up of fairly young guys or ones in their prime. We're looking good there. On defense we are only this season starting to see that depth emerge with guys like Badass Jack and Ryan Parent. These two guys will have lots of opportunities to become regulars this season."

Because of the salary cap hit to the Hurricanes Brian Leetch and Derian Hatcher were immediately dispatched to the farm team. "I think its safe to say that those two guys are available for cheap. Brian's situation is purely a financial situation, I'd love to have him back for a smaller price." Said GM Major.

The new season is just around the corner and the team is looking very promising. The GM has stated that we should expect several new changes in the coming days and weeks.

Calgary Sun 2007.

PR - Fog Devils

(We see the reporters milling around waiting for the press conference to start., GM Jon Osborne takes the podium)

GM Osborne: Thank you all for coming. The Fog Devils organization wish to announce that, after much consideration, we have removed Terry Crisp as head coach of our hockey team. I realize this is unexpected. Terry has done a wonderful job for us, and played a major role in our success last year, going to with one game of the finals. However we felt a change was necessary for our club to continue going forward and take the next step towards our goal of a championship.

Reporter 1: Does this mean the rumors of conflict between yourself and Terry Crisp were true? Is this why he was fired.

GM Osborne: Absolutely not. while a strong relationship between the coach and GM is vital, we would remove someone from their position just because we don’t get along, this is not highschool, we are adults, if Terry and I had not got along we would have worked it out for the betterment of the Fog Devils Franchise. In addition Terry has been offered, and accepted a position withing the organization as head scout.

Reporter 2: When do you expect to hire a new coach, training camp opens soon?

GM Osborne: We have already hired a new head coach that we feel will bring discipline and a stronger work ethic to our club. It is my pleasure to introduce the second head coach in Fog Devils history .... Mr. Paul Maurice.
(Paul Maurice takes the podium)

Paul: Thank you very much I am honoured to be here today and to be apart of this exciting franchise. We have an amazing group of young players here, as well as a potential laden farm roster. I look forward to challenging these players and having them reach their potential so we can bring a championship to this fine city.

Reporter 3: What areas of need do you intend to addresses on this team.

Paul: Well I think if you look at this team it is very well ballenced between offense and defense. That being said the plus minus of this team last year was horrible, so as head coach we will be focusing on a defensive style, take care of our own end first, that will give us the offensive oppertunites we need, we have no shortage of guys who can burry the puck here, so my area of concern is getting all the players to buy into a defensive system. Gentlemen, thank you for your questions, I have to go, there is lots of work to be done

(Paul Maurice leaves as the press conference ends.)

PR - Flames

The Atlanta Flames have made major shakeup changes this offseason. The Flames were looking at addressing their second line. We felt that it was too inconsistant and too poor defensively. Calder has been a leader and a scorer but was never good in his own end. We felt that bringing back Paul Kariya (who was once the captain of the Flames) could pick up Calder's scoring and leadership. Michalek is posed for a big break out but we felt Vas gave us just as much skill but more defensive ability. Kolanos has never lived up to his hype. Reacurring him for the second time was a waste. We expect big things out of Carter, who is a young, upcoming scorer. It was a shame to have to deal Delmore away but he was one year away from UFA status and we managed to get a solid, young defensive dman back. Also we managed to add quality picks to our future pool. The only uneasy player we had a hard time letting go was young D prospect Magnan. But to get quality, you must give up quality.

The Flames are looking forward to the change and should be very competitive next season.

Going out:

Milan Michalek

Kyle Calder

Krystofer Kolanos

Andy Delmore

Roman Hamrlik

Coming in:

Janos Vas

Paul Kariya

Jeff Carter

Johnny Boychuk

Marcel Goc

PR - Pain

The Michigan Pain lost the TFHL Cup in 6 games to the Young Guns. The Pain
who escaped 2 close series to get to the finals lost in dominating style.
The Young Guns won 3 of the first 4 games to put a strangle hold on the
series. The Pain could never get their game going in the Finals and as a
result they will not raise a 3rd TFHL championship banner at the beginning
of the 19th season. GM Elliot had some comments about his Western Conference
champions and the TFHL cup champions.

"First off my congratulations goes out to Kirk in his Championship. As for
our team, I believe this team was one of the best we have had in the 7
seasons I have been GM. We just got stopped by a team that had everything
working like a fine tuned machine. We had so much talent on this team but
little chemistry; we made it to the finals on pure talent. We barley beat a
Blades team with injuries to key players to get to the conference
championship. We beat the Fog Devils who on paper were far less superior but
chemistry wise and playing style were far superior. We did not score one
Powerplay Goal in the whole series. That sums up how we struggled and
grinned our way to the finals. So once we got to the finals and played a
team with comparable talent, we could not match the intensity and solid play
that the Young Guns brought. All in all I am happy with the result.
Obviously a championship was the goal but we were 2 wins shy. I set a goal
from the beginning of the season to trade draft picks and prospects for the
risk of going for a 3rd title. I have no regrets as the season was a
success. We will now look to next year as we have some decisions to make in
the off-season. I would also like to thank Geoffrey Young for putting in a
lot of time and making the league exciting to be apart of. Good luck to all
next season but please don't trade any superstars to the Flames or any other
western conference team ;)

Later
Geoff Elliot
Michigan Pain

Season Ending Note from the Commish

Alrighty. Congratulations Jeremy on a great playoff run by your young team and your first franchise championship! The Playoff MVP is of course, Young Guns goaltender Jose Theodore who went 16-7 this playoffs, starting every game for this championship team with a 2.56 GAA and a .907 save%. Jeremy has been a GM for quite a few years (with a brief hiatus for some time before returning as GM) and obviously, his move to pick up Theodore this season was pivotal for the TFHL 18 Cup. If I've got this right, the Young Guns were previously the Patriots (worst team in TFHL 16!). Before that, the team had a whole host of other absentee GM's and a bunch other names (Oilers before that etc...). So, once again, congratulations Jeremy! You've taken a team from #24 to #1!

TFHL Finals Preview

TFHL Finals Preview

Pain vs Young Guns

Two very powerful squads will face-off in this year's finals. The Pain have long been built solid and may very-well stand on the brink of their third championship - a feat no team has yet accomplished - and a claim to a Dynasty. The Young Guns on the other hand are somewhat the inverse: after going through a series of relatively unimpressive and unguided seasons, they managed to accrue a group of solid young players who have developed into a very dominant force. GM Kirk added the final touch after taking over the squad by picking-up one of the league's best goalies in Jose Theodore.

So far both teams have managed to proceed series by series, with the Pain having a difficult time in the previous two, leaving J.S. Giguere perhaps a little fatigued. The Guns who have been somewhat on cruise so far may be facing their first legitimate challenge, meaning one might think their performance thus far could be slightly skewed.

It should be a tight series, but I'm thinking it will come down to goaltending: Theodore is putting in an all-world performance, whereas Giguere is not looking impressive. The Pain might manage to claw their way to victory, like in their last two series, but I'm going to say the Young'ns take this in seven.

PR - Saints

Saints Fall in Seven to Walkerton Aces

After narrowly edging out their archrival Hurricanes in a seven game first round series; the Saints fall to the underdog Aces in seven in round two. After taking a 1-0 series lead, then a 2-1 lead after game 3; the Saints allowed two straight wins by the Aces putting the Saints’ backs to the wall. At home in Walkerton the Aces, however, couldn’t finish off the Saints who took Game 6 forcing a game 7 back in Saskatoon.

Game 7 – ‘Shootout at the SK Coral’ It was not so surprisingly that this series would be decided in an explosive offensive finish. After opening the scoring with two Saints goals, the fans were electric. However, the Aces over the twenty minutes would score five unanswered goals, two on the power play to take a 5-2 lead near the middle of the second period. Trading back and forth goals and fitting tooth-and-nail for a chance to play for the Eastern Title, the battle ended with the gritting Aces taking Game 7 and the series with a 7-5 epic victory. Perhaps fittingly, all four goalies played in this game; since goaltending was a clear question for both teams going into this series.

The Aces showed themselves to have stronger depth despite the Saints’ superior top-end scoring. Saints captain Chris Higgins, who has dominated the playoff scoring thus far, is eliminated from the Saints’ best playoff performance in franchise history. Higgins recorded 8 goals, 15 assists, a +5 in 14 games. Higgins: “I think this was an important step for our club. Our core players are quite young. As well, our young goalies have gained some invaluable experience. We all realize that this is just part of the ongoing process of developing the Saints into the elite club in the East.”

The Aces have brilliantly knocked off now perhaps the top two Eastern teams: the Brantford Bobcats and Saskatoon Saints. They set their sights on the Young Guns: a very similar gritty and well-rounded club. GM Young: “I believe the Aces will win the Eastern Championship this year and probably the TFHL Cup. Much of the playoffs has to do with streaks and the Aces have momentum on their side. I offer my congratulations to Dave Walter, a former TFHL Champion and respected GM of the league, on his success thus far. Good luck in the finals!”

Season Retrospective and Off-season Prognosis

GM Young, in his post-series press conference, made it clear that he is reasonably pleased with the Saints overall performance this entire season. For this reason, Young stated that he is “not likely to make any Geoffrey Young-like moves this offseason…but who knows, it’s a longer offseason!” Young stated that his core will not be moved, however, he has not ruled out a trade which would see a secondary scorer or d-man for some draft picks. “I need to reclaim my past emphasis on drafting and developing. I’ve had success with this in the past and that’s the cheapest way to improve for the long-term. We will also be turning our available finances toward landing a top-notch UFA this off-season to add some veteran stability.

Professor VS Primate

After Round 2, Tyler goes 3/4; and Bobo the monkey only 1/4. The two are tied at 50% going into Round 3 :).

Bobo's picks compared to Tylers:
Bobo picks Aces to win East
Bobo picks Fog Devils to win West

See the site for more details: http://tfhl.56a.org/predictions.htm

TFHL Conference Finals Playoff Preview

TFHL Conference Finals Playoff Preview

After having a little more success in the second round and gaining some ground on Coco, I must disclaim the following predictions: you're probably better off flipping a coin. In each series we have the typical TFHL playoff (mis-)match of underdog and powerhouse. If we were to learn from history money should be on the underdogs, but in this case the favourites may just be too powerful.

Young Guns (4) vs Walkerton Aces (8)

If the Aces, statistically the fifth worst team in the regular season, can now sit four wins from the TFHL finals and eight from the league championship - maybe every team should qualify for the playoffs and see what kind of competition we would have then? The Aces knocked off the hard-knock Saints in a tough battle. Currently the Aces are eeking by game by game - they just get enough goals and adequate enough goaltending to win four of seven games. However, one must give them credit - they are the king-killers right now.

I had the Guns through to the third round, now things get tricky. They are playing much as they did all season: good goaltending by Jose Theodore with adequate (but surpisingly poor) offence. Normally that should be enough to beat the opposition, but this is the TFHL playoffs...

Verdict: Young Guns in seven (probably).

Michigan Pain (2) vs Saint John Fog Devils(5)

Historically if the Pain get out of the first round, then they're pretty-well free and clear; yet also historically, a red-hot team from the West is something to fear. The Devils are getting solid goaltending from their tandem of Thibault and Dubnyk and decent scoring support. One might ask who will they go with in net this series? Thibault is looking hot enough to perhaps knock off a team, but Dubnyk is winning aswell. The Devils are something of an anomoly - usually a hot team has some statistical phenom, but like the Aces, the Devils are winning and looking pretty average. But then all you need is one more win than the other team.

I said in the last edition that whoever took the Blades-Pain series was probably the favourite to take the cup. Although somewhat of a no-brainer, I still stick by that: the Pain are a powerhouse and playing like one, in what may be their last real shot as a squad head and shoulders above the competition - they may have a couple more seasons in them, but this might be the last time they are this much in control of their destiny... a swan-song to their dynasty?

Verdict: Pain in six.

PR - Misconducts

Trade Rumors

According to sources close to the team, the Misconducts have acquiring a former Art Ross trophy winner. This player is said to still be alive in the playoffs. When asked if this was the trade that involved a first line player being shipped out of town, GM Maxwell respond with this " At this time I will neither confirm nor deny anything involving another teams players. Are we currently looking to improve our team ? Yes. Are we looking to upgrade our offense ? Yes. But you know what we are also looking to improve our defense and goaltending. " The only three players he would comment on were Robby Blaze, Andy Sackrison, and Carey Price. He stated that all three players have a very long future in Miami and he sees them as the nucleus for which he can build the team around.

Draft Rumors

The hot rumor going around town right now is that Kyle Turris is their apparent target with the four overall selection. The decision came down to either Turris or defenseman Karl Alzner. The feeling in the orginazation is that Turris come team up with last year's second overall selection Andy Sackrison to form a potent combo like Blackhawks youngsters Maxime Lacroix and Derek Brassard. Plus even though defense was their weakest aspect last year they fell they will be better in general because of growth in youngsters like Cam Barker, Robby Blaze, and Cody Wild plus improved play from Carey Price. There is also a wild rumor floating around that the Misconducts have already acquired two more first round picks for this upcoming draft, but you can take that for what it is worth. In order for them to get another first round pick they would have to move some of their young talent and trading young players further along in their develop for first rounders doesn't make a lot of sense for this team. And the veterans they have are worth nothing more than a late second or third round pick.

Blake To Retire

Rob Blake has apparently told management that he is not coming back next year. The reasoning he gave was that he wants to spend more time with his family while he is still realtively young and able to do things with his kids. The Misconducts and the city of Miami would like to wish Mr.Blake the best of luck in his life outside of hockey.

PR - Misconducts

Misconducts Finish Dead Last

After playing extremely well during the first couple months on the season, the Miami Misconducts fell apart. The reasons for the collapse are numerous including taking too many penalties, awful special teams play, and a sub par defense. GM Robert Maxwell stated at the end of the year press conference that measures will be taken this off season to rectify the problems and get the Misconducts back to playoffs after two straight seasons of being the worst or second worst team in the league, He has been criticized recently for having dealt this year's first round pick a couple of seasons ago for a player no longer on the team. However he was quick to point out that he also was able to acquire the fourth overall pick in this years draft which will land another good young player to go along with their nucleus of Andy Sackrison, Carey Price, Cody Wild, Robby Blaze, Jordan Staal, and Gilbert Brule. All six players figure to play a major role in how the Misconducts finish next year. Price stole a few games this year for the team, but he also cost them quite a few as well. Two key factors attributed to his poor play this season. One being the lack of a quality defense unit. The other was the lack of a proven veteran backup. Price seemed to play a lot better when Roberto Luongo was with the team last year and he seemed to miss him an awful lot this year. Mika Noronen did an adequate job filling in , but he wasn't able to play enough games to keep Price fresh. Sackrison and Staal scored most of the big goals for the team late in the year. They figure to see time together both of the top line and the top power play unit this season barring a big free agency signing. Those three players plan to be a big part of this team for years to come and will ultimately determine if the Misconducts will ever become an elite team in the TFHL.

Draft Prospects Wined and Dined

With the season now over for the Misconducts they have turned their attentions to the the draft. At their end of the year press conference GM Maxwell confirmed reports that the team had an additional four scouts and increasing their scouting budget by 5 million for the next year. It was considering a wise move by the franchise that holds over 20 draft picks with in the next three years. With that amount of picks they can basically pick and choose who the want to go after and try to get in the draft. Among the potential draftees they visited South Beach this week were LW James Van Riemsdyk, RW Patrick Kane, C Sam Gagner, C Kyle Turris, D Karl Alzner, and D Keaton Ellerby. Their most likely targets from this group would appear to be Alzner and Ellerby as the Misconducts ranked as one of the worst defensive teams in the league. The organization feels that Ellerby is pretty much a Zdeno Chara clone, a good solid two dman who takes up a lot of space. Alzner they feel can develop into a future captain. He has all the intangibles the team is looking for and they feel he can bring the right attitude to a defensive corps that was really lacking any personality last year. Two names who appear to be not on the teams radar right now are that of Russian Alexei Cherepanov and Angelo Esposito. The team believes that Esposito will no longer be there when they pick at number 4 and have decided to not bring him in for a work out. Cherepanov on the other hand, is not being looked at because the teams feels that they won't be able to get him over from Russia this next year. They have had a few conversations with Cherepanov's agent and he has expressed that he has no desire to play for Miami this season and will honor the last year of his contract in Russia if the Misconducts select him.

Trade Rumors

The Misconducts only made one small move at the trading deadline this year. They sent Ryan Whitney and Boris Valabik to the Wheat Kings for Byron Bitz and two third round picks. It was their least active trade deadline day in the history of the franchise. Veterans such as Andreas Karlsson, Brenden Morrow, Henrik Sedin, Ben Ulmer, Glen Murray, Richard Matvichuk, and Colin White all stayed put Leading to speculation that this off season could lead to a lot of trades by the Misconducts. Management has let it be known that only four or five players are untouchables at this point. Rumor has it they have already agreed in principal to deal that will see one of their first line players from last year traded. It has been confirmed yet who it or with what team the deal has been made, but it is believed to included a top ten draft pick coming back to the Misconducts. Apparently the Misconducts have contacted several teams drafting at the top of round one to see if their pick or picks were available. They are still believed to be looking for more draft picks with in the next four years.

PR - Fog Devils

GM and Coah Jon Osborne was stoped by reporters today just outside the teams
dressing room after practice.

Reporter 1: Coach anything to say after your underdog come from behind
series win.


Coach: All season long, and espicially durring the playoffs we have left
everything on the ice and allowed that to do all our talking. Don't expect
anything different from us for the remainder of our playoff run.

The coach enters the dressing room closing the door behind him

Primate versus Professor

Something must be up with this quarter Bobo is using or the 'damn dirty ape' is just that good. So the man and monkey are in complete disagreement on this one...who will win Round 2 of "Primate versus Professor"! See website for more details... http://tfhl.56a.org/predictions.htm

For Saints (3) versus Aces (8):
Tyler picked Saints...
Bobo picked the Away team Aces.

For Young Guns (4) versus Ignite (7):
Tyler picked Young Guns...
Bobo picked the Away team Ignite.

For Pain (2) versus Blades (8):
Tyler picked Pain...
Bobo picked the Away team Blades.

For Blackhawks (4) versus Fog Devils (5):
Tyler picked Blackhawks...
Bobo picked the Away team Fog Devils.

PR- Aces

Aces Flying High After Round 1 Win

For the second season in a row, the 8^th seed Aces have managed to upset the #1 seed Bobcats in round 1 of the TFHL playoffs. In an interview with team GM Dave Walter, he admitted that even he didn’t believe that his beloved Aces would get out of the first round. “To be honest, after a disappointing regular season we were shocked that we even made the playoffs!”

The Aces will need to get over their shock quickly however, as round 2 against the always dangerous Saints begins on Sunday. GM Walter commented that we shouldn’t expect too much tinkering with the lines for game 1. “We’re going with the same line combinations as we rolled with in games 6 & 7 against the Cats – why mess with a successful formula?”. The only question mark will be in net, and look for 19 year old Bryan Pitton to have a short leash. He will start game 1, but veteran Tomas Vokoun is waiting in the wings to pick up the pieces should Pitton falter. Last season it was Vokoun that relieved Barry Brust after some shaky starts to beat the Bobcats in their first playoff go around.

- Walkerton Times

PR - Saints

Saskatoon Saints Squeak by Archrival Hurricanes in Seven; and Prepare for Another Divisional Matchup with the Walkerton Aces

Game 5 in Saskatoon : After a win and lost for both clubs in their opening two home games, the series was tied 2-2 going back home to Saskatoon . Goaltender Tuuka Rask was given the nod for Game 5 and he provided the team with a solid performance at home giving the Saints a 6-2 victory. The key to Game 5 was the PP, in which the Saints finally lived up to their Regular Season reputation by scoring four straight goals, including the winner, with the man advantage. The Saints went 4 for 9 on the PP compared to the Hurricanes’ 0 for 4. Rask wasn’t challenged much in his winning playoff debut and ended up saving 14 of 16 shots.

Game 6 in Calgary : With a chance to win the series in six, the Saints went into Cowtown with an air of pride over their thrashing the night before. The Hurricanes answered back and showed their poise and talent under pressure. Brian Boucher, their go-to-guy since his masterful Game 4 win at home, played the game of his life. Boucher and the Canes completely shut down one of the best offenses in the league. For his stellar performance, Boucher received 1^st star after stopping all 25 of 25 shots for the first and only shutout throughout this first round of the playoffs. And adding injury to insult, the Hurricanes knocked out Saints’ superstar Ilja Kovalchuk (out for one week).

Game 7 in Saskatoon : A series of phenomenal goaltending and spectacular scoring came down to one last game on the prairies. This S. Saskatchewan River rivalry fittingly saw the opening scoring by Saints’ Captain Chris Higgins and the last goal unassisted by former Hurricane Matthew Lombardi. The Saints went on to take the game by a score of 5-2 with one goal on the PP; despite the Hurricanes out-skating and out-shooting the Saints 32-26. The story; Tuuka Rask who made 30 saves in order to advance the Saints to the Eastern semi-finals for the first time since TFHL 16 which saw them be swept by, of course, the Hurricanes.

Notes on the Series: Kudos must be given to the Hurricanes club, who fought tooth and nail in this series, and who for two of their three wins absolutely dominated the Saints. Goaltender Brian Boucher played two spectacular games, including one shutout and superstar Svitov boasted the ‘most goals’ title in this series with 5. Geoffrey Young commented on the Hurricanes club in the post game press conference: “Every time we play these guys, we get a little nervous. We have such a rich rivalry and I’ve always had great respect for the Hurricanes and their manager and owner Derek Major who has not only won a TFHL Championship, but consistently has been competitive in the regular season and the playoffs – a claim not many clubs can make in this league! In particular, long-time Cane Jason King was a warrior and a leader. And the future is bright with Svitov and a strong core of youngsters who will continue to dominate in our division the next seasons. Alexander Sundstrom in particular showed amazing potential along with former Saint Getzlaf. We look forward to seeing you next season in the playoffs!”

Eastern Semi-Finals Against Walter's Aces

All four remaining clubs in the East are from the Hunter Division. The third seed Saints and the eighth seed Aces now face off. The Aces just dispensed with the Eastern favourite Brantford Bobcats, a team Geoffrey Young expected to face in the second or third round: “I was certain that the Bobcats would be in the conference finals. I know how strong the Aces are and how last season they did the same thing in upsetting the Cats. We’re taking this club very seriously!”

Aces’ GM Dave Walter is a proven champion (with two cup rings). Furthermore, the Aces management and club have added incentive for embarrassing the Saints since the Kovalchuk RFA fiasco of this past off-season. The Saints and the Aces were in negotiations for a trade including Kovalchuk prior to Free Agency. But when a deal seemed unworkable, GM Young 10 million dollars on the RFA Kovalchuk. This got trade negotiations going again. The Saints-Aces seemed to have a deal work out, so the Saints withdrew their bid, made the deal, and the rest is history. Perhaps the hockey gods have paid the Saints back with some hubris, since Kovalchuk will be missing for at least the first two games of this series. This might give the Aces the edge they need to take a series lead by stealing a game or two in Saskatoon before heading back home.
Another young goalie battle: The Saints Rask (age 21) will be facing rookie Aces goaltender Bryon Pitton (Age 19). Neither goalie has much experience and leadership so many pundits are expecting an strong offensive series by both clubs: (Saints and Aces are tied for top for Team Scoring at 25 Goals For each, also Blades are at 25 GF).
GM Young: “I recognize the Aces have stronger depth, especially on defense. However, I think we have better top players at all positions: including Higgins, Lombardi, Bouchard, Kovalchuk for forwards; Baranka and Ballard on defense and Rask in net.” It is true Baranka has been huge on D (8 pts in 7 games with a +3); however, Ballard’s performance has been at the very least suspect with only 1 pt in 7 games and an abyssal -3. Look for shakeups in the lineup similar to Game 7 which saw Lombardi jump to the top line with Higgins for the first time all season. Young added, “we’re not the ‘favourites’ in this series, despite having home ice advantage. We play the same at home as on the road, and when you match the Aces up against the Saints, you see two very similar clubs with GM’s who know how to match lines and maximize scoring. Look for a six or seven game series with either team taking this one and perhaps the conference!”

Round 2 Predictions

Well now that I'm against a monkey, I might actually put some thought into this...

Eastern Conference

Saskatoon Saints (3) vs Walkerton Aces (8)

The Aces continued their play of the final 20 games and managed to upset a serious cup favourite in the Bobcats. The Aces are getting good showing from most of their players, which has helped off-set relatively poor golatending (although Pitton is winning). Tuuka Rask saved the Saints from the pit of fire with three quality games in net - if that continues, the Saints have to be the favourite here. They boast the best player, Chris Higgins, in the series and have a little more depth upfront (although both teams are somewhat similar in how they're built).

Verdict: Could this possibly be the Saints year?... Maybe the end is near? The Aces on the other hand have always been a suprisingly good playoff team (even back to the pre-Walter days of GM Jared Book's Rockets). It's going to be an interesting series; Saints in six.

Young Guns (4) vs Indianapolis Ignite (7)

Although the Young Guns have continued to show a weakness for finishing, I still have them gold-ticketed to the Conference finals. Theodore did not disappoint in the first round and one might easily expect a similar showing in the second. The Ignite played up to the form they were at nearly all season (and likewise the Spirit), with a commanding five game series victory. M-A Fleury is perhaps having his coming out party: Jarome Iginla is dominant right now and is getting a lot of support (notice Kristian Huselius, a clutch performer for the Wheaties last season, is again showing his post-season might).

Verdict: This is going to be a difficult series to call - both teams could conceivably take it all in short measure. It will likely come down to who's the hotter goalie, and my money is on Jose: Young Guns in seven.

Western Conference

Michigan Pain (2) vs Saskatoon Blades (8)

David vs. Goliath II? Is this the second coming of the Wheat Kings - a Saskatoon based team knocking off the Flames in the first round and then going on to win it all? The Blades certainly have the goods and GM Merkir ought to be shaking in his boots right now. However, as surprising as the Blades' victory was, the absolute dessolation of the Achaeans was perhaps one of the biggest surprises of the first round - it wasn't that the Pain were not expected to win, it was that the Achaeans were expected to show up and play hockey: perhaps the Pain are for real this time?

Verdict: Was either team just lucky in the first round? Doesn't look like it, they both look like monsters... my money is that whichever team wins this series wins the cup. That being said, I'm going to go with the Pain in seven.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) vs Saint John Fog Devils(5)

Two teams who I sided against in the first round now meet in the second. As was somewhat expected, the dominant regular season showings of the Hawk youngsters did not follow through to the playoffs. However, what was unexpected was the continued showing of Jeremy Roenick and the renaissance of Nikolai Khabibulan. Once upon a time the Bulan wall was a playoff eliminating machine, and perhaps he has regained that form? The Fog Devils are similarly bouyed by the showing of a veteran and a hot goalie. In their case it's Devan Dubnyk and Mats Sundin. The Devils are following through on their late season surge and could spell trouble for the Hawks - and playing in New Brunswick , a land of the inverse, whether it be hills or tides, it is perhaps not inconceivable that as underdogs they are to be favourites?

Verdict: Safe money says that the Hawks tough it out; but never underestimate a hot team in the West: Fog Devils in seven (dare we suggest a Saints-Devils TFHL final?).

Tyler Young’s Record against the Bobo* the Monkey’s Predictions
(*Bobo’s choice was made in consultation with a coin toss. This idea is borrowed from TSN Sportscenter so I hope we don’t get sued J)

Round	Bobo’s Picks	Percentage	Tyler’s Picks	Percentage
Round 1: Quarter-Finals	4/8	50.0%	2/8	25.0%

To see all about this new feature of TFHL Playoff Predictions, please visit the site for all details:
http://tfhl.56a.org/predictions.htm

Sorry Tyler lol, but at least you got my series right :).
Geoffrey

PR - Flames

Well, there you have it. Typical Atlanta Flames. They come out gunning. Take the series 3-0 and now have given up 3 games in a row. The team is shocked. Besides the last game, they have outshot, outhit, kept the other teams shots down but have lost many 1 goal games. The post season does not look good for the Flames. They suffered a ton of injuries to key players near the end of the season and it appears it has propelled them into a cold streak at the worst possible time.

The next 24 hours are critical.

PR - Saints

Saints-Hurricanes Series a Dousy; head's back to Toon Town Tied at Two
[ackk, I had a nice PR and lost it because of Shaw :(. Oh well, this is the short re-written version which unfortunately lacks the intrical details and phenomenal penmanship of the last 'lost' one. Just imagine the lost PR to be everything you want out of a PR: It'll "make your wildest dreams come true." Oh, nvm, thats Pedro.]

Game one saw the Hurricanes start of the scoring. This would be the pattern for three of the next four games. The Saints rallied back and took game one 4-3 in Saskatoon. This is the first time in many playoff appearances that the Saints have taken Game 1!

Game two unphased by the dissapointing conclusion to Game 1, the Calgary Hurricanes came out flying and got the opening goal once again to silence the electric Purgatory Place in Saskatoon (aka the Barn). A late goal by the Hurricanes tied up the game and it headed into overtime. After Getzlaf ran Saint's goalie Cheverie, the Saints went on a powerplay. However, this meant little to Russian Superstar Svitov (and former Saskatoon Saint) who stole the puck at his own blue line, streaked down the ice and beat the still dazed Cheverie on a backhanded shot to the top corner. The Hurricane take Game 2.

Game three showed that as loud as it was in the Barn back home, the historic Hurricanes in Calgary would not be outdone. The Saints' Baranka, however, silenced the fans early in the 1st with a howitzer from the point assisted by Captain and Art Ross winner Higgins and Rocket Richard winner Bouchard. Fellow ruskie Svitov answered back along with Getzlaf midway through the period with two PP goals followed by one by King: it was 3-1 in Calgary and the fans flocked to the beer gardens at the Saddledome and cracked open the Big Rock. However, in a statement of sobriety (the likely sober) the Saints answered back with five straight goals to finish off the remaining 40 minutes. Sjostrom scored two and took Star #1 in Game 3.

Game four saw backup Boucher come in net for the Hurricanes. So much for being a backup; Boucher played the best goaltending game of either team in the series. The Hurricanes would win 3-1 but this was not a close contest despite the series thus far being a real war in the trenches. The series is now tied; it's a best of three headed back to Toon town.

Series Snyposis: Goaltending. This afternoon coach Joseph Ratzinger announced to the media that Saints' #1 goalie Tuuka Rask will start tonight and likely will play the rest of the series, win or lose. Rask: "I'm on the bench. I'm sitting the playoffs series of my lifetime, against our worst rivals, and I'm on the bench through no one's fault but my own. Coach Ratzy has given me the nod for tonight in Saskatoon. This will be my first playoff start and I expect to play the game of my life. I will not let my team down or the fans. Tonight we will take this series back!"
This series now features the 'backups who once were starters': Boucher vs Rask. Young: "Higgsy with pass, Bouchard and Lombardi will of course finish off with pretty goals. If this team is going to win, its not because more must be done by the Offense on Offense. We need defence and we need goaltending with confidence. We are putting our fate in Tuke's hands and I am more than confident in his ability. He may be young but that Finn, not before long, will be the #1 goalie in the league. Now it's time for him to start his prime and to deliver us a playoff series win!"

The series continues tonight in Saskatoon. It will be decided by the goaltenders and, hopefully, by the fans.

Francis de Sales
The Saskatoon Journal
July 8, 2007

PR - Wheat Kings

FROM CHAMPS TO CHUMPS

In a season when absolutely everything went wrong, it figures that even when they wanted to lose the Kings won. The Wheat Kings finished off what amounted to a roller-coaster of a season Monday with a win against the Resevoir Dogs - which had they lost, would have allowed the Kings a higher draft pick.

"Yeesh," Coach-GM Tyler Young said after the game. "Let's just say that we're glad to get this year behind us, we'll forget it and move on."

After a play-off campaign during which the hockey-gods smiled on the Kings, TFHL18 turned out to be a season wrought with disaster after disaster.

"Maybe it was just things balancing out, we did use up a lot of good luck in that playoff run last year," Mr. Young said with a shrug. "Looking back, we can say that we played about two thirds of this year at .550, which is what I think this team is capable of, but there where three spurts when we were lucky to get a couple points in ten to fifteen games."

"If the season had been 88 games we might have snuck in like last year, but really, we shot ourselves in the foot but throwing away about 25 games this year, especially at the beginning and just before the trade deadline. But on the bright side, last time we missed the playoffs we won the President's Trophy the next season."

Forwards (B-):

The forwards were an improvement over last season, averaging nearly a third of a goal more per game. The emergence of Mike Frolik in his rookie year, the always dependable Josh Hennessy, an all-star worthy performance from Dmitri Kazionov, and Chuck Kobesew, who was possibly the team's best player after his acquisition from the Pontiacs, where reasons for joy in Saskatoon.

Steve Bernier started the season as a serious liability, but finished it as a powerhouse. Pat Dwyer was decent in his first year, showing good two-way instincts; Peter Mueller provided goals, but was somewhat disappointing as a third line checking center. Nik Bergfors did not quite live up to the expectations he set from last years' exceptional playoff performance, but he still had a respectable sophomore campaign and demonstrated a rare durability.

Overall the group was decent and shows promise to be a unit with above average offensive skills and solid defensive awareness; and with an average age of 21.6 they still have some room for development and will be together for many years to come. Look for the Kings to perhaps add a veteran in the off-season to round-out this group.

Defence (C+):

The Kings failure this year cannot be pegged on the defence. Although they had over .5 ga/g more this season than the previous, yet they allowed fewer shots against. The course of the season saw a significant overhaul of the corp, with only three defencemen from opening day remaining at the end. The addition of Jakubs Redlihs in an early season deal with the Ignite ultimately made perannial disappoinment Mark Stuart expendible. Redlihs had an excellent season, and proved a very capable two-way defenceman.

Anton Babchuck, Boris Valabik, and Ryan Whitney were all acquired from the Misconduct over the course of the season, and all proved to be excellent additions. Several products of the Kings system all had their first full season: John Adams was adequate, T.J. Young had a good season as a 19 year old, and John de Gray showed some promise for the future. Veteran Joel Kwiatkowski - and in their brief return stints as Kings, Sergei Zubov and Sandis Ozolinsh - were major disappointments and defensive liabilities.

The trade of Stuart threw the team into disarray, but after the addition of Whitney and Valabik things settled down and the Kings finished the season with a group of six defenceman, 23 and under, all capable of full-time TFHL duty and showing great promise. The back end though definitely needs at least one more mobile defenceman capable of putting up some points, the Kings had one of the worst offensive contributions from defence in the league.

Goaltending (F):

If anywhere, the wrath of the Wheat-watcher should fall squarely here. After an outstanding rookie campagin and an incredible playoff showing, the Kings thought they had their man in Jimmy Howard. Howard returned their confidence with a dismal showing wherein his save percentage dropped by twenty percent.

Making matters worse was the failure of two bonafied back-ups - Roberto Luongo and Kevin Weekes - to better Howards' showing, meaning that the Kings had a carousal of goalies this season (at one point both the starter and back-up went down injured) and an absolute liability in every game.

Look for the Kings to try to figure something out here. They cannot add the likes of a top end goalie without giving up a significant, and Free Agency doesn't hold much promise. But something needs to be done: Howard may rebound next year, but they cannot bet on it, or can they?

PR - Hurricanes

CALGARY HURRICANES ARE BACK FOR THEIR 12TH CONSECUTIVE PLAYOFF APPEARANCE

The Calgary Hurricanes' GM Derek Major is in comfortable territory again
this year. This will be the teams 12th consecutive playoff appearance
and as it usually goes, its against divisional rivals, the Saints. "It
sure seems like we play them a heck of a lot doesn't it? I mean they
are a great team and we're looking forward to the challenge like every
year. We plan to built upon our success from last year and hopefully we
can move deep into the playoffs." said the Veteran GM.

The Hurricanes will be looking for a new hero in these playoffs. In the
past there's been a Markus Naslund, a Sean Burke, or a Chris Pronger.
This year it is all about the youngsters who will be led by the only guy
with TFHL cup experience Shawn Bates. "We have a great team I think. I
don't think we've ever had such depth to our team as we do now. Brian
Boucher took us to the finals last year and again this year we have him
as insurance for Ilya Brryzgalov. We have a heck of a goaltending
tandem back there. Bryzzy reminds me a lot of how Sean Burke played for
us several seasons ago." said Bates.

The Hurricanes are all healthy and they are ready for the big battle.
The team has continued to build through its youth movement without
sacrificing any post-season appearances. "Everyone pegged us to be in
re-building mode this year. We do have a lot of young guys but I like
the way the some of the top teams built themselves up. They don't go
out and trade players and make too many impulse changes. They focus on
development. We've done that and we're bearing the fruits of guys like
Alex Svitov, Jason King and Alex Sundstrom who have been with us since
we both drafted them. We have other younger guys on our pro roster like
Michael Grabner, Kenneth McArdle and Kim Johansson. This team has a
great blend of veteran and youngsters and its going to be exciting to
see their speed out there." said GM Major.

The Hurricanes will be kicking it off tomorrow in Saskatoon. Coach
Crawford has confirmed that Ilya Bryzgalov will get the nod as the
starter goaltender for the Hurricanes. Crawford confirmed his starting
line up for Game 1:

Alexander Svitov - Alexander Sundstrom - Jason King
Ryan Getzlaf - Shawn Bates - Maxim Afinogenov
Justin Williams - Martin Cibak - Kenneth McArdle
Extra Skaters: Michael Grabner, Kim Johansson

Wade Redden - Bryan Mccabe
Brian Campbell - Robert Schnabel
Brian Leetch - Derian Hatcher

SHAWN BATES IS THE ALKA SELTZER AWARD WINNER
A member of the Hurricanes received the seasonal Alka Seltzer award for
best plus/minus in the TFHL with a +39. Congratulations to Shawn Bates
in one of his best seasons as a Hurricane and leader of the 'Canes.


Calgary Sun 2007