In Defence of the Future
After the preseason mega-deal with the Owls, the Kings found themselves loaded at forward with very talented, very young forwards. Although initially the plans had been to give Eric Fehr a season on the farm so as to allow him a chance to further improve and to assuage this depth, an early season injury to Daymond Langkow allowed Fehr a chance to strut his stuff on the big stage, and he did not disappoint. With five points in three games Fehr had solidified himself a roster spot and made Selke candidate Scott Hartnell expendable.
Coupled with the depth on the forward was a scarcity of comparable young defencemen. So given the situation, GM Tyler Young traded away three players who had fallen to the sidelines of the Kings' roster. Inaugrual King member and long time leading defenceman scorer Kenny Johnsson was dispatched with utility forward Danius Zubrus to the Saskatoon Saints in return for defenceman Rosario Rugerri. Then Scott Hartnell was sent to the Saskatoon Blades along with a pick for defenceman Shea Webber.
"With these two deals I feel we've solidified our d-core for the future, plus we've now trimmed down our offensive corp to its future form, more-or-less. Our choice was between Langkow and Hartnell, and in the end we felt we preferred Daymond's leadership and offensive skills over Scott's greater grit and defensive awareness. We love the defencemen we have brought in: Shea Webber is a great all-around d-man, solid defensively but offensively gifted, and he meets our criteria of disciplined play; Rosario Rugerri needs another year on the farm, but our hope is that given some more time to develop he might turn into a Sergei Gonchar-type defenceman and the future pilot of our powerplay."
News&Notes: Eric Fehr is not the only rookie making a premature push to stay on the pro roster. Niklas Bergfors, the Kings' 12th overall pick last draft, was brough up after an injury to Jakub Hulva and has had three points in two games, well actually, he had three points in one game after being given a shot on the #1 line between snipers Keith Tkachuk and Steve Bernier, whereat Bergfors' playmaking skills were on total display.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Clubbers - PR
Clubbers make it three in a row.....on the road
By Mike Oxolong, The Evening Telegram
It may be hard to believe but The Clubbers have yet to lose this year. After going 3-0 in preseason...the team has continued its winning ways and started the regular season 3-0. Tonights game came at a price for the team, losing Scott Gomez for 2-3 games. Coach Nolan expressed his displeasure on what was obviously a cheap shot. " Only a game misconduct.... Wade gave Scotty a stick facial....it should have been at least a suspension for 3 games.
Even with the loss of their Gomez and Foote, the team managed to hold off a strong Flames team to take a close game. The surprising play of free agent Turek has the team sporting a new level of confidence, only time will tell if Turek can continue to stand on his head.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Flames - PR
The Atlanta Flames started the season off with quite a BANG! The Flames, unluckly had to play their first game against the back to back, TFHL champions, Michigan Pain. Looking at this first game, this did not bode well for a team that needed early confidence to start the season well off. Apparently, this did not matter as the Flames pounced the Pain 8-4. What was truly amazing was the true outburst of offense that shows what the Flames are capable of this season. The Flames managed to make the Pain pull top goalie, J-S Giguere and continue to lightup their backup. Flames GM, Patrick Amantea was quite pleased with the outcome. "What truly amazed me was the scoring in the third period. The Flames managed to score 4 goals in LESS THAN one minute. I was also quited impressed with our PP and even strength play. Last year, our EV play killed us. Our PP was amazing but EV was average at best. Without the Pain's killer PP, the score would have been very one sided. I also believe we s
hould start the playoffs tomorrow so the Flames are locked for a playoff spot." :P
Could the Flames be actually pulling itself together for once? Only time will tell as they prepare for the Saints tomorrow.
Atlanta Times
hould start the playoffs tomorrow so the Flames are locked for a playoff spot." :P
Could the Flames be actually pulling itself together for once? Only time will tell as they prepare for the Saints tomorrow.
Atlanta Times
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Hurricanes - PR
HURRICANES TIE FIRST GAME; INJURIES TO BOTH PRONGER AND NASLUND
The Calgary Hurricanes opened the season up in Vancouver with what is being described the most disgusting display of sportsmanship in the TFHL in recent seasons.
"Unbelievable." Said Coach Marc Crawford.
With 32 seconds into the first period period Steve Montador went right for the Hurricanes best player, Markus Naslund. Naslund is only out day to day but was banged up. "We are
taking precautionary measures with Nazzy at this time. Its early on, so we figured we'd give him a rest for Sundays game." Said Coach Crawford. Montador was immediately ejected from the game.
"This is reminiscent of Markus' days in the NHL when Steve Moore went after him. Theres no room for this kind of hockey in our league." And if it wasn't enough Tomas Divisek went after one of the leagues superstar defenseman Chris Pronger in the middle of the third period.
Divisek was ejected immediately.
"Plain and simple, the Misconducts are a dirty and disgusting team. We'll be ready next time we play them." Said Coach Crawford.
Calgary Sun 2005
The Calgary Hurricanes opened the season up in Vancouver with what is being described the most disgusting display of sportsmanship in the TFHL in recent seasons.
"Unbelievable." Said Coach Marc Crawford.
With 32 seconds into the first period period Steve Montador went right for the Hurricanes best player, Markus Naslund. Naslund is only out day to day but was banged up. "We are
taking precautionary measures with Nazzy at this time. Its early on, so we figured we'd give him a rest for Sundays game." Said Coach Crawford. Montador was immediately ejected from the game.
"This is reminiscent of Markus' days in the NHL when Steve Moore went after him. Theres no room for this kind of hockey in our league." And if it wasn't enough Tomas Divisek went after one of the leagues superstar defenseman Chris Pronger in the middle of the third period.
Divisek was ejected immediately.
"Plain and simple, the Misconducts are a dirty and disgusting team. We'll be ready next time we play them." Said Coach Crawford.
Calgary Sun 2005
Friday, April 29, 2005
Misconducts - PR
The Miami Misconducts are ready to take on The Colt 45's tonight. The Misconducts feel as if this is the best team that have fielding since making it to the finals two years ago. Most of the team is new this year, but the fans saw that coming after a dismal performance last year which saw the team finish as one of the worst 5 teams in the league.
However this year appears to be different. GM Maxwell feels as if the team has improved in all areas. " Cechmanek upgrades us in goal . . .while we lost Zubov and Rafalski in free agency this year . .they were really more offense defensemen . . the players we replaced them with our much better in their own end and should help us cut down on the number of goals that were scored against us last year . . .and as far as our forwards are concerned . . .let's just say there are guys on this team that were playing on the first line that are now on our fourth line . . .Palffy is going to help us out tremendously . . . as our young guys like Huselius, Hagman, Kolnik, and Svoboda " GM Maxwell said at a press conference yesterday. While they have seemed to improve a lot and add more depth this year it is going to be hard climb into the playoffs, but this team likes being the underdogs and can't wait for the season to start.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
TFHL15: Season Preview - By Tyler Young
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Well, it's about time: the East is actually reaching the point where they have a respectable degree of talent on more than a couple teams. The Rednex won it last year handidly, this year they will have a hard time defending their title: the Spirit are again a threat, the Canes', Pats, Owls, Saints and Aces all have made solid improvement over the last year and now give the East a fair chance of besting the West. Watch especially the Pats: they could walk over everyone, or no one.
OF DF GT OV Comments
Rednexs A- B B+ A- Will be challenged this year for the trailor park crown
Spirit B+ B+ B+ A- The Spirit is upon us: proved themselves amoung the top last season
Hurricanes A- A- B A- Not done yet: betting on some youngsters to keep team wreaking havoc
Patriots A- B+ B B+ THE team to watch: Pats could revolutionize the league
Owls B B+ A- B+ Preseason mega-deal gives them the best goalie in the conference, hoot?
Saints B+ A- B+ B+ Spezza is no longer a martyr; team is improved from last season
Aces A- B- B+ B+ Dealt some pretty good cards, but they need to prove themselves... now?
Bobcats B B B- B Cats no longer purring, not yet roaring; Sundin an interesting addition
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clubbers B B B B Fleury: is he the next Biron? If so the Clubbers will break into playoffs
Colt 45s B- B- B B- Shouldn't fall out of the saddle: improved from last year over offseason
Marauders B- B- B- B- Marauders will be lurking on the frontier - could sneak into the playoffs
Misconduct C+ C+ C+ C+ Will need everyone thrown out of the game in order to make the playoffs
WESTERN CONFERENCE
The Paint should hold this conference this season, although they may face a challenge from the Flames, if the Flames can figure out why with all their talent they fell on their faces last year, and the Kings, if the departure of Roberto Luongo does not make them into this year's Flames. The Achaeans and Ice will be themselves, as they always are. The Raiders, Hawks, and Blades represent a group of teams of which any could push their way into the top four, or fall to the bottom four.
OF DF GT OV Comments
Pain A A A A The Pain will continue to torment the league; third cup in a row possible
Achaeans A- A- B+ A- Like the Canes' withering, but core still there and some youth add hope
Flames A- A- B A- Like the Pats the Flames need to prove themselves; but on paper... wow!
Ice B A- A A- The Ice will do what they do: not score, not let you score.
Wheat Kings A B+ B- B+ Strange deal in preseason shows still rebuilding: how far will they fall?
Raiders B B+ B+ B+ Collapse last year defies reason: maybe these pirates lack heart?
Blades C+ B+ A B Gonchar and Theodore. Period.
Blackhawks B B A- B The Hawks are wiley and should manage to hold on to their totems.
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Canucks B+ C+ B- B- Johansson likely the most talented player in league, just only plays 50
Sioux B- B- B- B- Sioux look like they're rebuilding, but they still have a chance at p-offs
Apocalypse B- B- B- B- There may be some Sion in their future, but it's going to be a wait
Renegades B- C+ B- B- Have an outside chance of avoiding fate and making the play-offs
Well, it's about time: the East is actually reaching the point where they have a respectable degree of talent on more than a couple teams. The Rednex won it last year handidly, this year they will have a hard time defending their title: the Spirit are again a threat, the Canes', Pats, Owls, Saints and Aces all have made solid improvement over the last year and now give the East a fair chance of besting the West. Watch especially the Pats: they could walk over everyone, or no one.
OF DF GT OV Comments
Rednexs A- B B+ A- Will be challenged this year for the trailor park crown
Spirit B+ B+ B+ A- The Spirit is upon us: proved themselves amoung the top last season
Hurricanes A- A- B A- Not done yet: betting on some youngsters to keep team wreaking havoc
Patriots A- B+ B B+ THE team to watch: Pats could revolutionize the league
Owls B B+ A- B+ Preseason mega-deal gives them the best goalie in the conference, hoot?
Saints B+ A- B+ B+ Spezza is no longer a martyr; team is improved from last season
Aces A- B- B+ B+ Dealt some pretty good cards, but they need to prove themselves... now?
Bobcats B B B- B Cats no longer purring, not yet roaring; Sundin an interesting addition
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clubbers B B B B Fleury: is he the next Biron? If so the Clubbers will break into playoffs
Colt 45s B- B- B B- Shouldn't fall out of the saddle: improved from last year over offseason
Marauders B- B- B- B- Marauders will be lurking on the frontier - could sneak into the playoffs
Misconduct C+ C+ C+ C+ Will need everyone thrown out of the game in order to make the playoffs
WESTERN CONFERENCE
The Paint should hold this conference this season, although they may face a challenge from the Flames, if the Flames can figure out why with all their talent they fell on their faces last year, and the Kings, if the departure of Roberto Luongo does not make them into this year's Flames. The Achaeans and Ice will be themselves, as they always are. The Raiders, Hawks, and Blades represent a group of teams of which any could push their way into the top four, or fall to the bottom four.
OF DF GT OV Comments
Pain A A A A The Pain will continue to torment the league; third cup in a row possible
Achaeans A- A- B+ A- Like the Canes' withering, but core still there and some youth add hope
Flames A- A- B A- Like the Pats the Flames need to prove themselves; but on paper... wow!
Ice B A- A A- The Ice will do what they do: not score, not let you score.
Wheat Kings A B+ B- B+ Strange deal in preseason shows still rebuilding: how far will they fall?
Raiders B B+ B+ B+ Collapse last year defies reason: maybe these pirates lack heart?
Blades C+ B+ A B Gonchar and Theodore. Period.
Blackhawks B B A- B The Hawks are wiley and should manage to hold on to their totems.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canucks B+ C+ B- B- Johansson likely the most talented player in league, just only plays 50
Sioux B- B- B- B- Sioux look like they're rebuilding, but they still have a chance at p-offs
Apocalypse B- B- B- B- There may be some Sion in their future, but it's going to be a wait
Renegades B- C+ B- B- Have an outside chance of avoiding fate and making the play-offs
Wheat Kings - PR
GM YOUNG PULLS OFF SHOCKER
In a move that has sent a shock through 'toontown and will likely go down as one of the most peculiar moves which GM Tyler Young has ever done, the Wheat Kings announced Wednesday that they have sent TFHL14 Vezina finalist and TFHL12 Vezina winner Roberto Loungo to the Owls, along with defenceman Martin Skoula and winger Petr Sykora. Coming to the Kings are center Josh Hennessy, winger Eric Fehr, defenceman Karol Rachunek, and goalie Kevin Weekes.
Triggering the shock is the seeming lack of any reason for this move. The Wheat Kings are already fairly deep at forward with young skilled players and Luongo is one of the league's preeminent goalies. However, the deal is now done and it will no doubt take a few years to demonstrate what was the ultimate result.
"These kind of trades are definately shocking," Tyler Young commented, "but you have to understand we want to build a dominant team here, so the key is to always aim for the bigger picture and not let an infatuation with a chance at immediate success blind us to following through with what the plan was all along: we want our team to be dominant, and all along trading Luongo was expected at a point before his play began to diminish - and thanks to his good season last year his value is as high as it will ever be."
Asked about the departure of Skoula and Sykora, both of whom are not chump-change, plus his plan for goal this season after losing Luongo's intended heir, Kari Lehtonen, in free agency, Mr. Young responded:
"Our hope is that Kevin Weekes will provide adequate goaltending this year - all he has to do is stop the puck eighty-nine percent of the time and we will be fine. We're not demanding excellence from him, heck Roberto wasn't statistically great last year, with our defence letting only about 25 shots against, we only need our goalies not to kill us. As for Sykora and Skoula, we figured it was fair cost for what we got in return. We think Hennessy looks like a young Langkow, and will no doubt be at the core of our team for the next decade. Fehr is the type of guy we've been looking for to fit in on our future third line with Hartnell and Kostitsyn, a versatile skilled guy with defensive instints, but he'll get another year on the farm first. Rachunek is no throw in either, he had fifty points last season and will hopefully add a boost to our dormant power-play, moreover talent-wise he's not too much of drop-off from Skoula in anything but defensive awareness."
TRADE POSSIBILITY: I wouldn't mind acquiring a goalie in a fair trade, if you're looking for something and have netminder you wouldn't mind dealing, then email me. Keith Tkachuk, the perannual 40 goal man and all-star, could definately be had if the deal is right, as could any of my players in a fair trade.
In a move that has sent a shock through 'toontown and will likely go down as one of the most peculiar moves which GM Tyler Young has ever done, the Wheat Kings announced Wednesday that they have sent TFHL14 Vezina finalist and TFHL12 Vezina winner Roberto Loungo to the Owls, along with defenceman Martin Skoula and winger Petr Sykora. Coming to the Kings are center Josh Hennessy, winger Eric Fehr, defenceman Karol Rachunek, and goalie Kevin Weekes.
Triggering the shock is the seeming lack of any reason for this move. The Wheat Kings are already fairly deep at forward with young skilled players and Luongo is one of the league's preeminent goalies. However, the deal is now done and it will no doubt take a few years to demonstrate what was the ultimate result.
"These kind of trades are definately shocking," Tyler Young commented, "but you have to understand we want to build a dominant team here, so the key is to always aim for the bigger picture and not let an infatuation with a chance at immediate success blind us to following through with what the plan was all along: we want our team to be dominant, and all along trading Luongo was expected at a point before his play began to diminish - and thanks to his good season last year his value is as high as it will ever be."
Asked about the departure of Skoula and Sykora, both of whom are not chump-change, plus his plan for goal this season after losing Luongo's intended heir, Kari Lehtonen, in free agency, Mr. Young responded:
"Our hope is that Kevin Weekes will provide adequate goaltending this year - all he has to do is stop the puck eighty-nine percent of the time and we will be fine. We're not demanding excellence from him, heck Roberto wasn't statistically great last year, with our defence letting only about 25 shots against, we only need our goalies not to kill us. As for Sykora and Skoula, we figured it was fair cost for what we got in return. We think Hennessy looks like a young Langkow, and will no doubt be at the core of our team for the next decade. Fehr is the type of guy we've been looking for to fit in on our future third line with Hartnell and Kostitsyn, a versatile skilled guy with defensive instints, but he'll get another year on the farm first. Rachunek is no throw in either, he had fifty points last season and will hopefully add a boost to our dormant power-play, moreover talent-wise he's not too much of drop-off from Skoula in anything but defensive awareness."
TRADE POSSIBILITY: I wouldn't mind acquiring a goalie in a fair trade, if you're looking for something and have netminder you wouldn't mind dealing, then email me. Keith Tkachuk, the perannual 40 goal man and all-star, could definately be had if the deal is right, as could any of my players in a fair trade.
Clubbers - PR
Clubbers Bash their way through Preseason
By Mike Oxolong, The Evening Telegram
Same Clubbers team....different result? Practically the same team that hit the ice last year will be running for the Cup again this year. Coming off a promising preseason, The Clubbers went 3-0 with a combined 28pts scored by the top line. Has coach Nolan finally put together a line that works this year? The emergence of young superstar Tambellini who has scored 9 pts in 3 games is a refreshing change from last years anemic offense that languised near the bottom of the league all last year.
It seems that the recent addition of journeyman defenseman Hamrlik has also ignited a deep desire to win as well. Hamrlik is a premier defenseman but the loss of the 1st and 2nd draft picks in Tfhl 16 may come back to bite the team. Also returning to the Clubbers this year after a 2 year hiatus is Turek. "Large" is expected to share goaltending duties with the young Fleury this year but if he continues to show the same level of play during the regular season as he had in the preseason...... Fleury may find himself in a back-up role this year. Well heres hoping to a better year this year.
Blackhawks - PR
The preseason ended today with the Blackhawks storming through with a perfect 3-0 record which included victories over the Flames, Apocalypse and Raiders. The Blackhawks looked impressive against the three very capable teams and hope to carry their early success into the regular season.
Coach Brian Sutter sounded quite excited and optimistic about the upcoming year. "I really think we've improved. Last year we took the Pain to seven games and it really could have went either way and maybe it would have been us hoisting the cup at the end but maybe's don't cut it in this league. We've picked up some key guys and added a bit of youth as well. I think we have a great mix of experience and youth on this roster and alot of teams will be suprised by what this squad will bring to the rink night in and night out. As for the Flames' GM's comments about our team's age and performance, it doesn't really mean much or affect us due to our constant dominence over them the last few seasons. Maybe if they had something against us like wins or even a playoff spot his comments would have some validity."
In other news wearing the "C" this season for the 'Hawks will once again be Eric Lindros with Fedorov, Ninnima and Zubov sharing the assisting duties.
KEY ACQUISITIONS:
Sergei Zubov (via Free Agency)
Sergei Zubov (via Free Agency)
Hal Gill (via Trade w/ Aces)
Ryan O'Byrne (via Trade w/ Aces)
Notable Departures:
Owen Nolan
Derian Hatcher
The Blackhawks though are still missing the last piece of the puzzle, their attempts to acquire a younger 75+ have gone unsuccessful. They are still looking and all offers will be looked at.
Look forward to another season of exciting Blackhawk hockey.
The Blackhawk Reporter
Flames - PR
The Atlanta Flames come out of the offseason with a 1-1-0-1 record. The first game was a heart breaker, where they lost in overtime but by the shot count and the late goals by the Blackhawks, the Flames were clearly the better team. It was a late 5 minute major call to Rick Nash, that was borderline that lead to a loss in overtime. The next game was a barn burner where the Flames lost another 1 goal game. The final game, GM Patrick Amantea decided to switch things up. Rookie, Sergei was clrealy not ready to assume control of the team so he was bumped to the 3rd line to give him some experience. Somewhat veteran, Kris Beech was bumped up to #2 line status and given PP duties and ran with the increased responsibilities. The Flames controlled a Rednexs team by a score of 7-0. The impressive thing is that the Rednex has probably the best top line in the league with Bertuzzi and Kovalev. The Flames are looking quite good this preseason and looking to make a bigger splash in the st
andings after noticing some weird trade activity that appears to have made the Wheatkings very weak in goal and on the blueline. LET THE SEASON BEGIN!
Flames
andings after noticing some weird trade activity that appears to have made the Wheatkings very weak in goal and on the blueline. LET THE SEASON BEGIN!
Flames
Monday, April 25, 2005
Saints - PR
Saskatoon Saints and Ottawa Praetorian Set for TFHL 15 Season
TFHL 15 ENTRY DRAFT SELECTIONS PART OF YOUNG'S PLAN FOR A SPEZZA LED DYNASTY
At the TFHL 15 Entry Draft on Saturday, the Saskatoon Saints organization had its most active draft since the TFHL 13 Draft in which they chose the core franchise players now visible on the Saints PRO roster: Jason Spezza, Keith Ballard, Chuck Kobasew (formally "Chris Higgins", a name already taken on the Blades roster) as well as many others still developing. The draft saw the Saints selecting ten 18-20 year old players, notably Saskatoon natives, Chris Durand and Saskatoon Blade (WHL) star Devin Setoguchi. As well, GM Geoffrey Young was proud to select cousin Brett Boschman and son of the former captain of the Ottawa Senators Laurie Boschman. Young made several trades at the draft which allowed him to increase and move his picks around. One such acquisition which Young is very much pleased with is his trade and acquisition of Christopher Bourque who Young describes as "one of the top 15 offensive players in this draft" and "the 'sleeper'". Young boasted that this collection of young future stars is comparable to his TFFHL 11 Praetorian farm team which won the TFFHL Cup. He looks forward to allowing the farm to develope these players and within a year or two he explained "we'll add around eight 20 year old players to our Pro roster which will include our current 6 20 year old d-men as well as Spezza, Monych and Kobasew". This is all part of his plan for establishing a dynasty around Spezza which will all be the same age or younger and will develope together over the next 5-10 seasons.
TRADE NEWS
The only concern to the Saints franchise, last year (and every year in both the old and new TFHL in which Young has participated), is his inability to either acquire or retain a #1 goalie in which would allow the Saints to become a Cup contender. "We seem to always have the offence, and compete among the top 5 teams in that category...and I feel that we now have the best collection of young d-men in the TFHL but now we must look to developing a #1 goalie in which can be one of the top 5 as well." Although the acquistion of Martin Brodeur from the Canucks is obviously not a goalie for the future, many Saints fans were very please to see his arrival. Brodeur will hopefully provide veteran goaltending along with providing mentorship to future #1 Ilja Bryzgalov who showed promise in last year's regular season as well as Playoff series win against the arch-rival Hurricanes. Other recent acquistions include veteran star Pavol Demitra amongst others.
SAINTS PRO ROSTER FOR TFHL 15 SEASON
The much anticipated Saints PRO Roster was released today. A tradition which Young seasonally releases but its significance tends to be somewhat farcical - if one was to compare the Season ending roster to the Saints OFFICIAL roster released at the commencement of each season, you'll see nothing too comparible except the team name. Regardless, Young explains that this roster will not likely change as he is quite content with the scoring lines. But rumours are that he will likely still change the wingers on the 'third' (which plays the 4th line as well) as he wishes upgrade the wingers to play with young centre Lance Monych....
Line 1:
Player PO HD IT SP ST EN DU DI SK PA PC DF SC EX LD OV AGE SALARY$ Y/FA
Jason Spezza C R 53 64 57 75 58 75 88 77 86 85 94 33 24 81 20 1,100,000 1R
Pavol Demitra LW L 59 81 69 76 99 78 86 77 79 69 83 72 56 81 31 3,200,000 2U
Jani Rita RW R 75 77 79 55 56 94 78 76 77 79 65 46 54 78 *24 625,000 3R
Dan Sprang D L 48 88 62 50 82 70 65 85 85 98 71 34 31 78 20 620,000 4R
Keith Ballard D R 70 60 74 71 99 72 80 93 65 61 74 42 49 77 *20 187,500 3R
Keith Ballard D R 70 60 74 71 99 72 80 93 65 61 74 42 49 77 *20 187,500 3R
Line 2:
Player PO HD IT SP ST EN DU DI SK PA PC DF SC EX LD OV AGE SALARY$ Y/FA
Joe Sakic C L 76 80 58 87 99 80 84 83 80 75 68 92 92 81 36 15,000,000 1U
Martin Cibak LW L 74 74 76 63 51 91 78 74 72 72 73 50 49 77 *25 281,250 2R
Chuck Kobasew RW R 55 73 74 74 92 54 70 80 76 67 79 43 60 77 *20 187,500 3R
Denis Grebeshkov D R 92 74 71 65 78 75 33 85 77 86 63 29 28 78 20 2,200,000 3R
David Turon D R 45 50 90 41 79 99 74 75 82 58 98 34 42 77 20 600,000 2R
David Turon D R 45 50 90 41 79 99 74 75 82 58 98 34 42 77 20 600,000 2R
Line 3:
Player PO HD IT SP ST EN DU DI SK PA PC DF SC EX LD OV AGE SALARY$ Y/FA
Lance Monych C R 98 70 95 98 83 84 58 72 61 97 58 30 28 78 20 600,000 1R
Ladislav Nagy LW L 71 78 61 68 90 87 80 66 70 74 77 38 45 76 26 1,050,000 3R
Steven Reinprecht RW L 77 72 66 68 83 93 72 71 72 69 72 43 46 75 29 475,000 1R
Rosario Ruggeri D L 46 60 51 68 96 95 75 69 94 45 86 46 42 75 *20 4,399,999 3R
John Adams D R 63 68 73 82 81 87 76 55 79 83 59 47 38 75 *20 600,000 2R
John Adams D R 63 68 73 82 81 87 76 55 79 83 59 47 38 75 *20 600,000 2R
GOALTENDING:
Martin Brodeur G L 71 89 93 97 97 88 87 72 80 25 25 77 81 81 33 3,000,000 2U
Ilja Bryzgalov G L 80 80 93 60 59 79 79 77 84 NA NA 43 45 75 *25 800,000 1R
Ilja Bryzgalov G L 80 80 93 60 59 79 79 77 84 NA NA 43 45 75 *25 800,000 1R
SASKUP TOURNAMENT
Another Preseason Tradition is the Saskup Tournament which happens between the Saskatchewan teams and GM's within the TFHL (Saskatoon Ice, Saskatoon Blades, Saskatchewan Wheat Kings and Saskatoon Saints). Here are past results:
SASKUP WINNERS
TFHL 9 Saskatchewan Wheat Kings - Tyler Young
TFHL10 Saskatoon Saints - Geoffrey Young
TFHL11 Saskatoon Sioux - Jasen Berry
TFHL12 No Tournament
TFHL13 No Tournament
TFHL14 Saskatoon Saints - Geoffrey Young
TFHL15 Oh, the suspense...
TFHL 9 Saskatchewan Wheat Kings - Tyler Young
TFHL10 Saskatoon Saints - Geoffrey Young
TFHL11 Saskatoon Sioux - Jasen Berry
TFHL12 No Tournament
TFHL13 No Tournament
TFHL14 Saskatoon Saints - Geoffrey Young
TFHL15 Oh, the suspense...
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TFHL14 Standings
TEAM W - L - T - PTS GF – GA
Saints 2 1 0 4 11 8
Ice 1 1 1 3 8 5
Blades 1 1 1 3 7 6
Wheat Kings 1 2 0 2 6 12
Aces - PR
NEW LOOK ACES GEAR UP FOR PRESEASON
By Eileen Forward, Chepstow Times
Following a busy off-season, the Aces began filtering back into Chepstow today to begin their training camp. The many new faces will meet each other for the first time today at a BBQ scheduled this afternoon at the estate of Aces GM and owner, Dave Walter.
"After going out in 5 games to the Spirit in round one of last year's
play-offs, we knew we were going to have to make some changes." said GM Walter in an exclusive interview with the Times. "Last year we were blessed with an incredibly talented but young team. That youth hurt is in the play-offs, and we knew we needed to add some leadership to this club to help our young guns succeed."
Gone from the Aces are veterans Paul Kariya, Zigmund Palfy, Yanic Pereault, Pierre Turgeon, and goalie Jocelyn Thibault. Joining the team in leadership roles are veterans Owen Nolan, Saku Koivu, Jeremy Roenick, Jason Allison, Derian Hatcher and Patrice Brisbois.
Walter commented that he hated to turn over so many veteran players, but free
agency made Palfy, Pereault and Turgeon too expensive considering the young players waiting to fill their skates, and the salary of Kariya was restricting the Aces' ability to fill holes and remain under the salary cap. It was also time for goalie Jocelyn Thibault to move on with rookie phenom Barry Brust waiting in the wings to claim the #1 net minder spot.
Expected to be announced at this afternoon's BBQ is that Owen Nolan will become the new captain, and that Saku Koivu and Jeremy Roenick will have the 'A' sewn to their jerseys.
Optimism abounds in Chepstow going into pre-season play. Fans of the TFHL will be hard pressed to find a more exciting line than the one of Tim Brent, Ilya Kovolchuk and Jason Allison, backed by sniper defensemen Aaron Rome and the intensity of Braydon Coburn patroling the blue line. Look for the Aces to be a serious force in the East this season.
Season tickets available at 888-444-ACES.
By Eileen Forward, Chepstow Times
Following a busy off-season, the Aces began filtering back into Chepstow today to begin their training camp. The many new faces will meet each other for the first time today at a BBQ scheduled this afternoon at the estate of Aces GM and owner, Dave Walter.
"After going out in 5 games to the Spirit in round one of last year's
play-offs, we knew we were going to have to make some changes." said GM Walter in an exclusive interview with the Times. "Last year we were blessed with an incredibly talented but young team. That youth hurt is in the play-offs, and we knew we needed to add some leadership to this club to help our young guns succeed."
Gone from the Aces are veterans Paul Kariya, Zigmund Palfy, Yanic Pereault, Pierre Turgeon, and goalie Jocelyn Thibault. Joining the team in leadership roles are veterans Owen Nolan, Saku Koivu, Jeremy Roenick, Jason Allison, Derian Hatcher and Patrice Brisbois.
Walter commented that he hated to turn over so many veteran players, but free
agency made Palfy, Pereault and Turgeon too expensive considering the young players waiting to fill their skates, and the salary of Kariya was restricting the Aces' ability to fill holes and remain under the salary cap. It was also time for goalie Jocelyn Thibault to move on with rookie phenom Barry Brust waiting in the wings to claim the #1 net minder spot.
Expected to be announced at this afternoon's BBQ is that Owen Nolan will become the new captain, and that Saku Koivu and Jeremy Roenick will have the 'A' sewn to their jerseys.
Optimism abounds in Chepstow going into pre-season play. Fans of the TFHL will be hard pressed to find a more exciting line than the one of Tim Brent, Ilya Kovolchuk and Jason Allison, backed by sniper defensemen Aaron Rome and the intensity of Braydon Coburn patroling the blue line. Look for the Aces to be a serious force in the East this season.
Season tickets available at 888-444-ACES.
Wheat Kings - PR
WHEATIES PREP FOR PRESEASON
The Saskatchewan Wheat Kings arrived today in Saskatoon after a short off-season reprive with only a couple new faces - a surprising change for the once trade-maniac Kings, but who can blaim them for their inactivity? You don't go playing with a team that topped the league.
The final segment of the break was completed Sunday as the Wheaties drafted Niklas Bergfors (12th overall), Tuukka Rask (61st overall), and Erkka Leppanen (65th overall).
"We were in a relaxed position in drafting," GM Tyler Young commented to the media Sunday, "which meant we could take a bit of a chance with our picks. Bergfors is especially interesting: since we are loaded with young, gifted snipers, we decided to take a chance on finding a premium set-up man, someone to feed our snipers for a long time to come."
While the Wheat Kings did not undergo much change from last season, the President Trophy Champs did gain a year of maturity and their outstanding year lead to much development in the squad:
"Even with the same players as last year, we are still a much more talented club than last year thank to the our overall development," Mr. Young said. "However, there are a lot of teams that have seen much more improvement through trades and player development and are now ready threats to any chance of us repeating at the top; so we'll see what we can do, but our boys know this year that the key is the playoffs."
The only significant editions to the Kings roster are young sniper Alex Kositsyn, acquired from the Aces, and back-up Manny Legace, aquired through free agency. Departing are Mike York and Aaron Rome to the Aces, and Kari Lehtonen via Free Agency.
In other news, the Wheat Kings were big winners at the TFHL awards. Winger Dimtri Kazionov tied with the Canucks' Jonas Johansson for the Calder Trophy, coach Mike Keenan won the Jack Adams, and defenceman Slava Suchy took home the Alka-Seltzer Trophy.
The Saskatchewan Wheat Kings arrived today in Saskatoon after a short off-season reprive with only a couple new faces - a surprising change for the once trade-maniac Kings, but who can blaim them for their inactivity? You don't go playing with a team that topped the league.
The final segment of the break was completed Sunday as the Wheaties drafted Niklas Bergfors (12th overall), Tuukka Rask (61st overall), and Erkka Leppanen (65th overall).
"We were in a relaxed position in drafting," GM Tyler Young commented to the media Sunday, "which meant we could take a bit of a chance with our picks. Bergfors is especially interesting: since we are loaded with young, gifted snipers, we decided to take a chance on finding a premium set-up man, someone to feed our snipers for a long time to come."
While the Wheat Kings did not undergo much change from last season, the President Trophy Champs did gain a year of maturity and their outstanding year lead to much development in the squad:
"Even with the same players as last year, we are still a much more talented club than last year thank to the our overall development," Mr. Young said. "However, there are a lot of teams that have seen much more improvement through trades and player development and are now ready threats to any chance of us repeating at the top; so we'll see what we can do, but our boys know this year that the key is the playoffs."
The only significant editions to the Kings roster are young sniper Alex Kositsyn, acquired from the Aces, and back-up Manny Legace, aquired through free agency. Departing are Mike York and Aaron Rome to the Aces, and Kari Lehtonen via Free Agency.
In other news, the Wheat Kings were big winners at the TFHL awards. Winger Dimtri Kazionov tied with the Canucks' Jonas Johansson for the Calder Trophy, coach Mike Keenan won the Jack Adams, and defenceman Slava Suchy took home the Alka-Seltzer Trophy.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Hurricanes - PR
CALGARY HURRICANES GEAR UP FOR THE PRE-SEASON
The Calgary Hurricanes players began arriving in Calgary in preparation for their pre-season beginning on Tuesday. The Hurricanes have managed to continue keeping the same roster in tact season after season since they won the TFHL Cup in TFHL12. The current Hurricanes roster heading into pre-season action boasts 9 TFHL Cup champions from that team in TFHL12.
"Experience is necessary when it comes to the playoffs. We have character guys on this team that will help the youngsters like the Svitovs, Keslers and Kings of the team that haven't won a cup yet." said Captain Chris Pronger.
WHO'S GONE?
Rosario Ruggeri - Rookie defenseman was traded as part of the acquisition of goaltender Pascal LeClaire.
Roman Cechmanek - Overrated goaltender was traded prior to free agency and his sub-par performance.
Shane Endicott - The Injury prone forward was traded right after the conclusion of the season.
Dan Boyle - Defenseman fell out of favour with Marc Crawfords coaching style
Marek Malik - Worst plus\minus in the history of the Hurricanes.
WHO'S ARRIVED?
Pascal Leclaire - Goaltending sensation Leclaire is expected to fill in the void with two solid defenseman ahead of him, Chris Pronger and Bryan Mccabe.
Bryan Mccabe - Rugged scoring defenseman added to compliment the already powerful defense including the likes of Chris Pronger, Pavel Kubina, Robert Schnabel and Richard Matvichuk.
Sheldon Souray - Souray has been added as a six defenseman on a roster that is full of talent. He is expected to bring experience and leadership.
"We made a lot of changes. But at the same time a lot of young guys really improved in the offseason. Just look at our guys like Ryan Kesler, Jason King and Robert Schnabel. All guys who played on the farm and pro last season will be regulars this season." Said GM Derek Major.
The Hurricanes are prepped and ready for a big season ahead. The team is looking forward to recapturing the TFHL Cup.
Calgary Sun 2005
The Calgary Hurricanes players began arriving in Calgary in preparation for their pre-season beginning on Tuesday. The Hurricanes have managed to continue keeping the same roster in tact season after season since they won the TFHL Cup in TFHL12. The current Hurricanes roster heading into pre-season action boasts 9 TFHL Cup champions from that team in TFHL12.
"Experience is necessary when it comes to the playoffs. We have character guys on this team that will help the youngsters like the Svitovs, Keslers and Kings of the team that haven't won a cup yet." said Captain Chris Pronger.
WHO'S GONE?
Rosario Ruggeri - Rookie defenseman was traded as part of the acquisition of goaltender Pascal LeClaire.
Roman Cechmanek - Overrated goaltender was traded prior to free agency and his sub-par performance.
Shane Endicott - The Injury prone forward was traded right after the conclusion of the season.
Dan Boyle - Defenseman fell out of favour with Marc Crawfords coaching style
Marek Malik - Worst plus\minus in the history of the Hurricanes.
WHO'S ARRIVED?
Pascal Leclaire - Goaltending sensation Leclaire is expected to fill in the void with two solid defenseman ahead of him, Chris Pronger and Bryan Mccabe.
Bryan Mccabe - Rugged scoring defenseman added to compliment the already powerful defense including the likes of Chris Pronger, Pavel Kubina, Robert Schnabel and Richard Matvichuk.
Sheldon Souray - Souray has been added as a six defenseman on a roster that is full of talent. He is expected to bring experience and leadership.
"We made a lot of changes. But at the same time a lot of young guys really improved in the offseason. Just look at our guys like Ryan Kesler, Jason King and Robert Schnabel. All guys who played on the farm and pro last season will be regulars this season." Said GM Derek Major.
The Hurricanes are prepped and ready for a big season ahead. The team is looking forward to recapturing the TFHL Cup.
Calgary Sun 2005
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Flames - PR
The Atlanta Flames head into the preseason ready for business. The team will be lead by one of the best iced lines in the league. The GAN line will be leading the team. The line consists of newly acquired center, Sergei Anshakov and he will be flanked by the prue finesse of Marian Gaborik and the power of Rick Nash. This top line is also one of the fastest lines in the league. It will be amazing, watching this line skate circles around the old, slow and crippled Achaeans. The defense backing this line will be none other than Wade Redden and Tomas Kaberle. The Flames, (after a boring night and no motivation to study for finals) sat around his computer and traded without concern the other night. The Flames were able to acquire a top young rookie defenseman and a top center that gives the Flames arguably the best 1-2-3 punch down the middle, with three very talented star centers. In the deadlings the Flames dealt away two of their 1st round picks for next year and the leader of their team Jason Allison, who has led the team in points year after year. The team was in need of a big change and is ready to make an impact. The Flames look forward to the preseason and hope to play the Achaeans and Pain at least once before the season starts. To be the best, you have to beat the current best. This would be a good benchmark to see where this team satnds as of right now.
Flames
Flames
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Wheat Kings - PR
FOR KING AND COUNTRY
Emerging from what was their slowest FA period to date, the Kings still managed some small changes. Key was the resigning of Selke finalist Scott Hartnell, forty goal man Petr Sykora, and all-around utility player Danius Zubrus to four year contracts at reasonable rates, as well as the addition of Manny Legace as a back-up for Roberto Luongo.
The surprise of free agency for the Kings was the offer made to goaltending prosepct Kari Lehtonen by the Sioux. The three year, 13.2 million dollar offer was deemed excessive by GM Tyler Young and Lehtonen was bid a fond ado. The Kings received the 12th and 61st overall picks in the upcoming draft as compensation.
The Wheaties are now preparing for the draft. As always, GM Young is maintaining a strict code of secrecy as far as potential picks. The Kings have a history of rare participation in the draft, but of great success when they do so. To date their only pick since the TFHL was reconstituted has been Steve Bernier, chosen 13th overall last year, who cracked the President Trophy champion's roster in the second half of the last season and was a big part of the Kings' late season surge. He has a guaranteed spot on the Kings' first line for the upcoming season alongside Keith Tkachuk and Daymond Langkow.
"There's nothing much that we need, moreover our roster is already fairly young," Tyler Young commented to reporters Sunday. "I think we'll just take the player we think is best at that pick, we have the luxury for the first time since I took over the Kings seven seasons ago to begin to stock the pantry; we can take it slow, not force these kids into the pros until they're ready."
Emerging from what was their slowest FA period to date, the Kings still managed some small changes. Key was the resigning of Selke finalist Scott Hartnell, forty goal man Petr Sykora, and all-around utility player Danius Zubrus to four year contracts at reasonable rates, as well as the addition of Manny Legace as a back-up for Roberto Luongo.
The surprise of free agency for the Kings was the offer made to goaltending prosepct Kari Lehtonen by the Sioux. The three year, 13.2 million dollar offer was deemed excessive by GM Tyler Young and Lehtonen was bid a fond ado. The Kings received the 12th and 61st overall picks in the upcoming draft as compensation.
The Wheaties are now preparing for the draft. As always, GM Young is maintaining a strict code of secrecy as far as potential picks. The Kings have a history of rare participation in the draft, but of great success when they do so. To date their only pick since the TFHL was reconstituted has been Steve Bernier, chosen 13th overall last year, who cracked the President Trophy champion's roster in the second half of the last season and was a big part of the Kings' late season surge. He has a guaranteed spot on the Kings' first line for the upcoming season alongside Keith Tkachuk and Daymond Langkow.
"There's nothing much that we need, moreover our roster is already fairly young," Tyler Young commented to reporters Sunday. "I think we'll just take the player we think is best at that pick, we have the luxury for the first time since I took over the Kings seven seasons ago to begin to stock the pantry; we can take it slow, not force these kids into the pros until they're ready."
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Hurricanes - PR
CALGARY HURRICANES LOOK TO TAKE ON THE WORLD
"Let me tell you this. Those piece of s*** rascals on the Saints are going down this season. I had a good cup of joe with Pascal LeClaire after we pulled him away from their team and he is assuring me we'll knock them down every time."
As GM Major sat in his leather chair at the top of the Saddledome corporate offices in Calgary, he was throwing darts on a dart board that featured the Saints logo. "We've won our division the last 3 seasons in a row for a reason, then they knocked us out, again. We'll be making a
statement this year."
On the topic of the Achaeans bidding on RFA Brendan Morrison for 2.5 million dollars, GM Major responded with a simple catch phrase. "Damn you."
And as he was walking out of the Saddledome offices his assistant Cindy mentioned that 2.5 million isn't that much considering he's paying a farm player 2 million $ in Martin Lapointe, and 2.5 million $ in Richard Matvichuk. GM Major turned to his assistant.
"Damn you too, you're fired."
Calgary Sun
"Let me tell you this. Those piece of s*** rascals on the Saints are going down this season. I had a good cup of joe with Pascal LeClaire after we pulled him away from their team and he is assuring me we'll knock them down every time."
As GM Major sat in his leather chair at the top of the Saddledome corporate offices in Calgary, he was throwing darts on a dart board that featured the Saints logo. "We've won our division the last 3 seasons in a row for a reason, then they knocked us out, again. We'll be making a
statement this year."
On the topic of the Achaeans bidding on RFA Brendan Morrison for 2.5 million dollars, GM Major responded with a simple catch phrase. "Damn you."
And as he was walking out of the Saddledome offices his assistant Cindy mentioned that 2.5 million isn't that much considering he's paying a farm player 2 million $ in Martin Lapointe, and 2.5 million $ in Richard Matvichuk. GM Major turned to his assistant.
"Damn you too, you're fired."
Calgary Sun
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Pain - PR
Pain Fire back at Spirited Hacks:
Rumours flying About Big Names Leaving Michigan
With the upcoming parade in the next few days, what should be celebration turned ugly with GM Goodlet and GM Elliot exchanging shots. GM Elliot was Interviewed on TSN by phone late last night. "It makes me sick that GM Goodlet is supporting the actions of his team. It was the Finals of the playoffs but when your gooning guys to win it completely washes away any respect. When you have Mike Fisher who is one of hte grittest guys gets hurt, you really have to wonder what the other teams motives are. Even their fairy players like Kol-nancy is playing with no respect after his suspension from the Redneck series. You know last season I didn't want the summer to end, but now I can't wait to see the schedule to find out when we get a crack at them again. We will haunt them; Payback in Pain. But its over now, we got out alive. Hey whats that saying, threes a charm? I guess 4 is a charm eh Goody ;)" A very emotional playoffs brought the tension to an alltime high.
In other Pain news, reports are that the following players maybe not in a Michigan uniform for next season. (psst. give me your offers) Big names equals, equal returns
60 Jason Ryznar LW L OK 81 73 53 78 89 87 84 70 56 66 88 33 25 76
24 Brendan Witt D L OK 83 71 85 72 85 70 69 60 67 76 53 57 53 77
56 Ed Jovanovski D L OK 78 76 76 87 99 61 73 74 77 78 80 64 66 81
21 Roman Hamrlik D L OK 68 73 77 85 84 72 73 76 79 71 71 84 69 79
My upcoming 1st round draft pick, formly Misconducts 1st. #rd over all w/o draft lottery! This has to go!
Michigan Press
Rumours flying About Big Names Leaving Michigan
With the upcoming parade in the next few days, what should be celebration turned ugly with GM Goodlet and GM Elliot exchanging shots. GM Elliot was Interviewed on TSN by phone late last night. "It makes me sick that GM Goodlet is supporting the actions of his team. It was the Finals of the playoffs but when your gooning guys to win it completely washes away any respect. When you have Mike Fisher who is one of hte grittest guys gets hurt, you really have to wonder what the other teams motives are. Even their fairy players like Kol-nancy is playing with no respect after his suspension from the Redneck series. You know last season I didn't want the summer to end, but now I can't wait to see the schedule to find out when we get a crack at them again. We will haunt them; Payback in Pain. But its over now, we got out alive. Hey whats that saying, threes a charm? I guess 4 is a charm eh Goody ;)" A very emotional playoffs brought the tension to an alltime high.
In other Pain news, reports are that the following players maybe not in a Michigan uniform for next season. (psst. give me your offers) Big names equals, equal returns
60 Jason Ryznar LW L OK 81 73 53 78 89 87 84 70 56 66 88 33 25 76
24 Brendan Witt D L OK 83 71 85 72 85 70 69 60 67 76 53 57 53 77
56 Ed Jovanovski D L OK 78 76 76 87 99 61 73 74 77 78 80 64 66 81
21 Roman Hamrlik D L OK 68 73 77 85 84 72 73 76 79 71 71 84 69 79
My upcoming 1st round draft pick, formly Misconducts 1st. #rd over all w/o draft lottery! This has to go!
Michigan Press
Monday, March 28, 2005
Flames - PR
The Atlanta Flames are set to resume the new season with vengance. The team looks amazing on paper. Every position has been upgraded and NO player in the offseason got worse. Every player got better, through hard conditioning over the offseason. The team now boasts 6 super star players (80+ OV players) and 11 players waiting to breakout (77-79 OV). That is some amazing depth. The Flames' 3rd line has players who could play solid on other team's 2nd lines or even on their 1st lines. It is hard to determine the core of the Flames because they are so young and every player is special.
Some of the bigger names this year are:
Centers:
Jason Allison (81OV); one of the better playmaking centers in the league. He also ripped it up during last season's all-star game.
Petr Dvorak (82OV); one of the best upcoming 2-way centers. He finished 6th overall last year for rookies and was only a few points out of top 3. He worked really hard during the offseason and really improved his game.
Leftwings:
Marian Gaborik (82OV); there is not much to say about Gaborik. He is just purely amazing. He has really worked on his endurance and defense in the osseason. His skills stats are very similar to Jagr and Kovalev, EXCEPT he is 10 years younger. This kid is just scary.
Kyle Calder (80OV); no one does it like Calder on the PP. Last season he lead the league for PP goals. He has really bulked up and will continue to be a gritty scorer, who will stick up for his teammates.
Rightwings:
Rick Nash (81OV); have you ever seen a train play hockey before? Nash is the fastest, strongest, most physical player in the league. Did I mention his passing and scoring is near the top in the league. This kid already resembles Bertuzzi but with mroe power and skill. Scary isn't it...
Nathan Horton (79OV); Not much was expected out of Horton but his off season training was probably the best out of the bunch. The kid has dedication. During the offseason he trained with Gaborik and Horton is now close to Gaborik's skill level. That is just sick.
The defense is led by Kaberle, Redden, Stuart, Van Ryn, and the newest addition of Ramholt. Ramholt has an amazing shot. Its scary when 3 out of your top 4 defenseman boast passing around the 80 mark. The Flames PP looks like it will remain top in the league.
The Flames have also decided to stick with Boucher as the #1 goalie. He improved over the offseason and was a .500 goalie playing under a team with no chemistry last year. If Lalime can drive to the playoffs, there is no reason why Boucher cannot do it as well.
Dare to look at the Flames roster, it is quick sick. Even the farm team has solid prospects at every position with 2 first rounders and 4 second round picks in the next 2 years. Did I mention 1/2 the team is 20 years old or younger? :P
The Flames future has never looked so bright.
PS - Ptarick, GM of the team has also went through counselling in the offseason and now has grater control over himself. He has received help and will not make 25+ trades like last season.
Some of the bigger names this year are:
Centers:
Jason Allison (81OV); one of the better playmaking centers in the league. He also ripped it up during last season's all-star game.
Petr Dvorak (82OV); one of the best upcoming 2-way centers. He finished 6th overall last year for rookies and was only a few points out of top 3. He worked really hard during the offseason and really improved his game.
Leftwings:
Marian Gaborik (82OV); there is not much to say about Gaborik. He is just purely amazing. He has really worked on his endurance and defense in the osseason. His skills stats are very similar to Jagr and Kovalev, EXCEPT he is 10 years younger. This kid is just scary.
Kyle Calder (80OV); no one does it like Calder on the PP. Last season he lead the league for PP goals. He has really bulked up and will continue to be a gritty scorer, who will stick up for his teammates.
Rightwings:
Rick Nash (81OV); have you ever seen a train play hockey before? Nash is the fastest, strongest, most physical player in the league. Did I mention his passing and scoring is near the top in the league. This kid already resembles Bertuzzi but with mroe power and skill. Scary isn't it...
Nathan Horton (79OV); Not much was expected out of Horton but his off season training was probably the best out of the bunch. The kid has dedication. During the offseason he trained with Gaborik and Horton is now close to Gaborik's skill level. That is just sick.
The defense is led by Kaberle, Redden, Stuart, Van Ryn, and the newest addition of Ramholt. Ramholt has an amazing shot. Its scary when 3 out of your top 4 defenseman boast passing around the 80 mark. The Flames PP looks like it will remain top in the league.
The Flames have also decided to stick with Boucher as the #1 goalie. He improved over the offseason and was a .500 goalie playing under a team with no chemistry last year. If Lalime can drive to the playoffs, there is no reason why Boucher cannot do it as well.
Dare to look at the Flames roster, it is quick sick. Even the farm team has solid prospects at every position with 2 first rounders and 4 second round picks in the next 2 years. Did I mention 1/2 the team is 20 years old or younger? :P
The Flames future has never looked so bright.
PS - Ptarick, GM of the team has also went through counselling in the offseason and now has grater control over himself. He has received help and will not make 25+ trades like last season.
Pain - PR - TFHL CHAMPIONS!
BACK TO BACK CHAMPIONSHIPS!
PAIN ON BRINK OF DYNASTY
Detroit Michigan:
Last night, the Michigan Pain captured their second TFHL Cup in as many seasons. They stomped the Guelph Spirit 5 - 2 in the 7th and deciding game. Mike Fisher scored his 9th in the first period to what amounted to the eventual Cup winning goal. The series was a most entertaing and gruling affair. The Spirit shocked the Pain in the first game by a score of 3-1.
However the Pain won the next three games in which all three times Patrick Lalime was pulled. The Spirit fought back by forcing a game 7. In the eventual championship game, Patrick Lalime was again pulled after letting in 5 goals. The hype around the series was if the Pain would be able to beat the red hot Lalime. Ironically in last years finals, the same question was said about Curtis Joseph. Well it turns out that both could not handle the high heat. The Series turned ugly in game 2. Weiss ejected fromt he game after charging at Eric Daze. Daze was fine but the intent to injury was there. Game three saw a ruthless cross-check by Joni Pitkanen. He was suspened for his check to the head on Comrie. Again the Spirit's ugly head surfaced in game 4 with Dion Phaneuf's ill use of a stick on Mike Fisher's face. Fisher had to leave the game but before it ended tempers flew as a few blows were exchanged. Phaneuf in game 5 attempted to injure Yashin but was given a game misconduct for his temper. In game 6 Hamrlik was clipped in the eye by an errant Hossa, and Hamrlik needed stiches. In game 7 on the first shift, Yashin hooked
Hossa down and drew a penalty. Hossa then swung his stick and Yashin defended himself by clipping Hossa in the face. Hossa would not return and Yashin was ejected on a contraversal call.
Press Conference
After the game, GM Elliot had a few comments to make. "I am extremely proud to be apart of the this organization on a history making day. To win once in this league is amazin but to win back to back TFHL Cups is amazing. We are the second team in history to accomplsih this and the 4th team to win 2 championships. We plan on continuing this success next year and creating a team for the ages. I can not say enough about our guys. Everyone of them is a work horse; everyone gave it their all. What can I say about the Daze, Yash, and Pail line. They dominated the playoffs; Yashin missing the playoff record of most points by a few. Hamrlik and Markov were warriors on defence for us. Fisher played unbelievable grit hockey, with some big hits. We were sure glad to get Roenick for the playoff run. We decided to pick JR up from the Apocalypse and boy did he come threw. We have to thank GM Sykes for the opportunity. This year is differnet because we won 3 seventh games to win the championship. Last year we never faced elmination once and never lost 2 games in a row. This year we alomst tied the goals scored in a playoff series record. I have to admit that the Spirit's managment decsions were superior. The coaching strategy was tricky at times to compete against. With that said I am a little dissapointed with the Spirit's goon play. They went out to take us out, literally. No one said it wasn't going to be a battle, but they turned it into a war. Well its amazing and we will cherish this Cup but we better make it three!"
BELOW - PICTURES
1. TFHL CUP
2. JR scores on Lalime in game 3
3. Hossa takes JR's legs out with no penalty call
4. A degected Lalime as he gets pulled for the 4th time in the series. The
Offensive Terror could not be stopped!
5. The players piled on the ice when the game ended
6. Vinny holding the holy grail
PAIN ON BRINK OF DYNASTY
Detroit Michigan:
Last night, the Michigan Pain captured their second TFHL Cup in as many seasons. They stomped the Guelph Spirit 5 - 2 in the 7th and deciding game. Mike Fisher scored his 9th in the first period to what amounted to the eventual Cup winning goal. The series was a most entertaing and gruling affair. The Spirit shocked the Pain in the first game by a score of 3-1.
However the Pain won the next three games in which all three times Patrick Lalime was pulled. The Spirit fought back by forcing a game 7. In the eventual championship game, Patrick Lalime was again pulled after letting in 5 goals. The hype around the series was if the Pain would be able to beat the red hot Lalime. Ironically in last years finals, the same question was said about Curtis Joseph. Well it turns out that both could not handle the high heat. The Series turned ugly in game 2. Weiss ejected fromt he game after charging at Eric Daze. Daze was fine but the intent to injury was there. Game three saw a ruthless cross-check by Joni Pitkanen. He was suspened for his check to the head on Comrie. Again the Spirit's ugly head surfaced in game 4 with Dion Phaneuf's ill use of a stick on Mike Fisher's face. Fisher had to leave the game but before it ended tempers flew as a few blows were exchanged. Phaneuf in game 5 attempted to injure Yashin but was given a game misconduct for his temper. In game 6 Hamrlik was clipped in the eye by an errant Hossa, and Hamrlik needed stiches. In game 7 on the first shift, Yashin hooked
Hossa down and drew a penalty. Hossa then swung his stick and Yashin defended himself by clipping Hossa in the face. Hossa would not return and Yashin was ejected on a contraversal call.
Press Conference
After the game, GM Elliot had a few comments to make. "I am extremely proud to be apart of the this organization on a history making day. To win once in this league is amazin but to win back to back TFHL Cups is amazing. We are the second team in history to accomplsih this and the 4th team to win 2 championships. We plan on continuing this success next year and creating a team for the ages. I can not say enough about our guys. Everyone of them is a work horse; everyone gave it their all. What can I say about the Daze, Yash, and Pail line. They dominated the playoffs; Yashin missing the playoff record of most points by a few. Hamrlik and Markov were warriors on defence for us. Fisher played unbelievable grit hockey, with some big hits. We were sure glad to get Roenick for the playoff run. We decided to pick JR up from the Apocalypse and boy did he come threw. We have to thank GM Sykes for the opportunity. This year is differnet because we won 3 seventh games to win the championship. Last year we never faced elmination once and never lost 2 games in a row. This year we alomst tied the goals scored in a playoff series record. I have to admit that the Spirit's managment decsions were superior. The coaching strategy was tricky at times to compete against. With that said I am a little dissapointed with the Spirit's goon play. They went out to take us out, literally. No one said it wasn't going to be a battle, but they turned it into a war. Well its amazing and we will cherish this Cup but we better make it three!"
BELOW - PICTURES
1. TFHL CUP
2. JR scores on Lalime in game 3
3. Hossa takes JR's legs out with no penalty call
4. A degected Lalime as he gets pulled for the 4th time in the series. The
Offensive Terror could not be stopped!
5. The players piled on the ice when the game ended
6. Vinny holding the holy grail
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Pain - PR
The Michigan Pain advanced past the Achaeans to the Western Conference Finals.
The Pain easily handled the Achaeans in 5 games. With a minute and a half left in the 5th game of the series, Yashin scored to send home the Achaeans for the second straight year. Vegas had the Achaeans as the favourites; they predicted a 6 game win for the Achaeans. The 'godly' predictions were wrong, and the wave of offensive Terror moves on to face the Ice. GM Elliot had some thoughts on the Achaeans series. "The news may make it seem like we beat the Achaeans easily but trust me on it, we worked hard for every win. They have many superstars, which was hard to contain. With that said, every player went out and played his role perfectley. With the contracts the Achaeans players have, we won't see the last of them." GM Elliot was then questioned on the comments made by GM Butchart. "What kind of godly herb has he been smoking? I have no idea what he is talking about? Sometimes I wonder..."
PAIN TO FACE ICE
For the second straight year, the Pain and Ice will square off to battle for the right to represent the West in the TFHL Cup Finals. What is ironic about this statement is GM Elliot told the press after last seasons series victory that the Pain would not see the last of the Ice. The Ice are built young, and it is at no surprise that they are in the Conference championships again. It will be the battle of offence vs defence again. Last year the offence was to much even for the stingy Ice. With subtle improvements this year, the Pain pack more punch. GM Elliot made some cracks at the Ice "They will be extremely tough to beat. I think if we stiick to our game plan we can come out of this series with four wins. The Ice play a style which is almost unique to the league. They play so defensively that I hope they don't forget that to win they have to score goals as well. We are ready to go, we will shoot till we break down the mighty Ice Wall."
Michigan Press
p.s. To whom it may concern: I think we skated around you :)
The Pain easily handled the Achaeans in 5 games. With a minute and a half left in the 5th game of the series, Yashin scored to send home the Achaeans for the second straight year. Vegas had the Achaeans as the favourites; they predicted a 6 game win for the Achaeans. The 'godly' predictions were wrong, and the wave of offensive Terror moves on to face the Ice. GM Elliot had some thoughts on the Achaeans series. "The news may make it seem like we beat the Achaeans easily but trust me on it, we worked hard for every win. They have many superstars, which was hard to contain. With that said, every player went out and played his role perfectley. With the contracts the Achaeans players have, we won't see the last of them." GM Elliot was then questioned on the comments made by GM Butchart. "What kind of godly herb has he been smoking? I have no idea what he is talking about? Sometimes I wonder..."
PAIN TO FACE ICE
For the second straight year, the Pain and Ice will square off to battle for the right to represent the West in the TFHL Cup Finals. What is ironic about this statement is GM Elliot told the press after last seasons series victory that the Pain would not see the last of the Ice. The Ice are built young, and it is at no surprise that they are in the Conference championships again. It will be the battle of offence vs defence again. Last year the offence was to much even for the stingy Ice. With subtle improvements this year, the Pain pack more punch. GM Elliot made some cracks at the Ice "They will be extremely tough to beat. I think if we stiick to our game plan we can come out of this series with four wins. The Ice play a style which is almost unique to the league. They play so defensively that I hope they don't forget that to win they have to score goals as well. We are ready to go, we will shoot till we break down the mighty Ice Wall."
Michigan Press
p.s. To whom it may concern: I think we skated around you :)
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Achaenans - PR
"Hey there Mr. Brown Shoes, how about that local sports team?" That's the current talk in downtown Ayton these days. Not surprisingly, 3 people fill downtown Ayton. Regardless of the size of this bustling metropolis, there is a very good local sports team, the Ayton
Achaeans.
Since the league has undergone revamping, the team has finished second twice. No one seems to remember what position the team finished in last year due to the local newspaper printing press burning to the ground. This season saw the locals finish a measly 2 points behind divisional rival and President's Trophy winning Wheat Kings. They would have finished first, if it wasn't for those darn Flames and their dog.
The team has also enjoyed its first playoff series win in the new format. Even though it was a sweep, the Renegades put up a tough fight.
Now they are in a very tough series against a very strong, and defending champs, the Michigan Pain. Recently, rival GM Elliot made some disparaging remarks about the Achaeans, mostly about their age: "I think they are so old we will just be skating around them like nobodies business...". This seems odd, since the Pain are only 2 years younger on average. GM Elliot
should also take note of where the Achaeans finished in the regular season.
When asked about these comments, GM Butchart had this to say: "Senile, eh? Bucktoothed am I? Boney arms are they? Liver spots did I? Chinless will you!? We'll show this team that last season is last season. We may be down a game, but it still takes 4 games to win get to the next round. There's still lots of hockey left in this series, and we have a great mix of exuberant youth and learned experience to get to the next round".
Regardless, whichever team is able to get out of this round has a terrific chance of getting to the finals, but they will have to get past further tough competition in either the Ice or Wheat Kings.
Ayton Advocate
Achaeans.
Since the league has undergone revamping, the team has finished second twice. No one seems to remember what position the team finished in last year due to the local newspaper printing press burning to the ground. This season saw the locals finish a measly 2 points behind divisional rival and President's Trophy winning Wheat Kings. They would have finished first, if it wasn't for those darn Flames and their dog.
The team has also enjoyed its first playoff series win in the new format. Even though it was a sweep, the Renegades put up a tough fight.
Now they are in a very tough series against a very strong, and defending champs, the Michigan Pain. Recently, rival GM Elliot made some disparaging remarks about the Achaeans, mostly about their age: "I think they are so old we will just be skating around them like nobodies business...". This seems odd, since the Pain are only 2 years younger on average. GM Elliot
should also take note of where the Achaeans finished in the regular season.
When asked about these comments, GM Butchart had this to say: "Senile, eh? Bucktoothed am I? Boney arms are they? Liver spots did I? Chinless will you!? We'll show this team that last season is last season. We may be down a game, but it still takes 4 games to win get to the next round. There's still lots of hockey left in this series, and we have a great mix of exuberant youth and learned experience to get to the next round".
Regardless, whichever team is able to get out of this round has a terrific chance of getting to the finals, but they will have to get past further tough competition in either the Ice or Wheat Kings.
Ayton Advocate
Saturday, March 05, 2005
TFHL14: Round 2 Play-Off Preview - By Tyler Young
Playoff Preview - Round 2
Eastern Conference
Rednex vs Saints
Talk about a Pyrhic victory: the Saints pull off the upset of the tourney by knocking out the 'Canes in seven, only to lose their superstar Jason Spezza for the rest of the playoffs and their #1 goalie, Ilya Bryzgalov, for at least two games. Do you believe? Can the little Saints topple the might Rednex? No. The Nex have too much offensive talent not to take advantage of the Saints spotting them a couple games. However, here is a thought - what if Pascal Leclaire gets called-up and actually plays up to his talent? The Saints may just have a prayer. Rednex in five.
Spirit vs Owls
Well, I won't doubt the Spirit again. Patrick Lalime was solid in the first round and sits behind a team that has a number of gifts - however, Zach Parise will miss the next one to two games, but that shouldn't diminish the Spirit. The Owls got out of the first round thanks to their offence, and Mike Modano was not even that effective. The Owls' problem is in net: can Felix Potvin out-play Patrick Lalime? Spirit in seven.
Western Conference
Wheat Kings vs Ice
Well 'toonians can't complain about the action their gettin'. The Ice quickly dispatched their cross-town rival, the Blades, in four games and now face off against another 'toon-town team, the Wheat Kings. The secret of the Ice success was evident in the first series, allowing on four goals against. The Wheat Kings, a much more two-sided machine, got out of their first series by virtue of their offense. This series is interesting in that it involves two of the most defensive teams in the league, yet the Kings will not be able to play at that level unless their All-World goalie Roberto Luongo starts to perform as he can. On the other side, the Ice have superstar in net with Martin Biron, but their offense is somewhat suspect, especially facing the might of the Kings. This one is a tight call, someone will take it in six, I'll say the Wheaties.
Achaeans vs Pain
The struggle of the Titans and the Olympians ensues - either of these teams could win the cup, but first they must cast the other guy into Tartarus. The Achaeans emerged from a light series against the Renegades and should be well rested. The Pain on the other hand are coming-out of an excrutiating experience battling the Blackhawks. Some might see their long battle with the 'Hawks as a sign of weekness, but the defending champs likely pulled the toughest first round cookie when they had to face-off against them. The Pain are suprisingly well rested and ready to go. An interesting story may be in net, where Dan Cloutier was solid in the first round, while Vezina possibility J-S Giguere was somewhat questionable. Achaeans in six.
Results Round 1:
Rednex vs Colt 45 - Rednex in four --- Rednex in six
Owls vs Clubbers - Owls in five --- Owls in six
Hurricanes vs Saints - Canes in six --- Saints in seven
Spirit vs Aces - Aces in five --- Spirit in five (well at least I had the games right)
Wheat Kings vs Canucks - Wheat in six --- Wheat in five
Achaeans vs Renegades - Achaeans in four --- Achaeans in four
Pain vs Blackhawks - Pain in six --- Pain in seven
Blades vs Ice - Ice in six --- Ice in four
Team Perfect
6/8 1/8
Eastern Conference
Rednex vs Saints
Talk about a Pyrhic victory: the Saints pull off the upset of the tourney by knocking out the 'Canes in seven, only to lose their superstar Jason Spezza for the rest of the playoffs and their #1 goalie, Ilya Bryzgalov, for at least two games. Do you believe? Can the little Saints topple the might Rednex? No. The Nex have too much offensive talent not to take advantage of the Saints spotting them a couple games. However, here is a thought - what if Pascal Leclaire gets called-up and actually plays up to his talent? The Saints may just have a prayer. Rednex in five.
Spirit vs Owls
Well, I won't doubt the Spirit again. Patrick Lalime was solid in the first round and sits behind a team that has a number of gifts - however, Zach Parise will miss the next one to two games, but that shouldn't diminish the Spirit. The Owls got out of the first round thanks to their offence, and Mike Modano was not even that effective. The Owls' problem is in net: can Felix Potvin out-play Patrick Lalime? Spirit in seven.
Western Conference
Wheat Kings vs Ice
Well 'toonians can't complain about the action their gettin'. The Ice quickly dispatched their cross-town rival, the Blades, in four games and now face off against another 'toon-town team, the Wheat Kings. The secret of the Ice success was evident in the first series, allowing on four goals against. The Wheat Kings, a much more two-sided machine, got out of their first series by virtue of their offense. This series is interesting in that it involves two of the most defensive teams in the league, yet the Kings will not be able to play at that level unless their All-World goalie Roberto Luongo starts to perform as he can. On the other side, the Ice have superstar in net with Martin Biron, but their offense is somewhat suspect, especially facing the might of the Kings. This one is a tight call, someone will take it in six, I'll say the Wheaties.
Achaeans vs Pain
The struggle of the Titans and the Olympians ensues - either of these teams could win the cup, but first they must cast the other guy into Tartarus. The Achaeans emerged from a light series against the Renegades and should be well rested. The Pain on the other hand are coming-out of an excrutiating experience battling the Blackhawks. Some might see their long battle with the 'Hawks as a sign of weekness, but the defending champs likely pulled the toughest first round cookie when they had to face-off against them. The Pain are suprisingly well rested and ready to go. An interesting story may be in net, where Dan Cloutier was solid in the first round, while Vezina possibility J-S Giguere was somewhat questionable. Achaeans in six.
Results Round 1:
Rednex vs Colt 45 - Rednex in four --- Rednex in six
Owls vs Clubbers - Owls in five --- Owls in six
Hurricanes vs Saints - Canes in six --- Saints in seven
Spirit vs Aces - Aces in five --- Spirit in five (well at least I had the games right)
Wheat Kings vs Canucks - Wheat in six --- Wheat in five
Achaeans vs Renegades - Achaeans in four --- Achaeans in four
Pain vs Blackhawks - Pain in six --- Pain in seven
Blades vs Ice - Ice in six --- Ice in four
Team Perfect
6/8 1/8
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Aces - PR
Holy Spirit! Aces fold faster than Superman on laundry day
By Kent C. Wright, Chepstow Times
Despite a quick and decisive start to the best-of-7 TFHL quarter finals, the Aces quickly faltered as the Spirit woke up and won the next 4 games straight.
It was a close series, and although the Aces out shot the Spirit in every game except game 5, they just couldn't find a way to win.
GM Dave Walter said after the game that although he was disappointed, he was happy with the performance of his young stars. "Although we lost, I'm excited about the future of this team. We've got a great mix of youth and enthusiasm that is sure to make us serious contenders going into next season".
Walter also commented that the Aces were going to spend the off season evaluating the team's strengths and weaknesses, and making moves where necessary to plug any holes that are evident.
By Kent C. Wright, Chepstow Times
Despite a quick and decisive start to the best-of-7 TFHL quarter finals, the Aces quickly faltered as the Spirit woke up and won the next 4 games straight.
It was a close series, and although the Aces out shot the Spirit in every game except game 5, they just couldn't find a way to win.
GM Dave Walter said after the game that although he was disappointed, he was happy with the performance of his young stars. "Although we lost, I'm excited about the future of this team. We've got a great mix of youth and enthusiasm that is sure to make us serious contenders going into next season".
Walter also commented that the Aces were going to spend the off season evaluating the team's strengths and weaknesses, and making moves where necessary to plug any holes that are evident.
Monday, February 28, 2005
Spirit - PR
Spirit “unaware” playoffs began, says GM.
The Spirit fell behind early in their series against the Chepstow Aces in yesterday’s game, held in Guelph, as they were shellacked 9-1. A summary of the game is basically useless, as everyone on the Aces did very, very well, and everyone on the Spirit stunk.
“Here’s what happened,” explained GM Goodlet. “This Dave Walter waltzes into the league and inherits a team full of awesome players that had been underperforming due to poor management. Making moves that even a stupid chimpazee could figure out, his team suddenly “gets better”. Then, suspiciously, a free 24 of beer arrives on my doorstep Saturday morning. The next thing I remember, it’s time to go to work on Monday, and I find out the playoffs started yesterday!”
Rumours continue to swirl that Goodlet, in a drunken stupor, ordered the local Timbits hockey team to take the ice against the Aces, because “he thought it would be funny.” Goodlet maintains that Walter somehow broke into his house, stole some of his DNA, cloned him, and forced that clone to issue the Timbits order. Police have so far refused comment.
“We’ll be ready to go today” avowed Goodlet. “I mean, we managed to hold them to 9 goals and even scored one yesterday, and we iced a team of six-year olds.”
The Spirit, lacking top centre Radek Bonk, will look to even the series today.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
TFHL14: Play-Off Preview - By Tyler Young
Eastern Conference
Rednex vs Colt 45
Ah, of all the series, this one best exemplifies the class, the sophistication, the all-around haute couture of l'esprit de hockey. The Rednex, the Colt 45'S - to say it is like speaking a Botacelli painting, or another tour de force from Kid Rock. Yes, for all ya Hillbillies, Hicks, and Rubes out there, we give you the one and only Pick-Up Truck Classic. The Rednex have ascended to the top of the East through some good moves by GM Ambrose Garvey and deservedly took the conference this year. They don't have a lot of depth, but who needs depth when you have the top four they do, led by Rocket Richard winner Alexei Kovalev. The Colt 45's similarly made it into the playoff by virtue of some savy moves; GM Justin Mastrangelo pulled-off a significant coup and playoff-making deal by getting Marty Turco and Patrice Bergeron from the Saints for Pascal Leclaire. However, in this battle of Middle America, those of the red neck should take it. Rednex in four.
Owls vs Clubbers
The Owls have a couple big hooters, that's for sure. Mike Modano and Joe Thornton are the biggest one-two combo in the league, the problem is that the Owls don't have much depth. But the Clubbers have a nice pair of knockers as well with Jarome Iginla and Pavol Demitra. This may turn into an interesting series, but it will likely end up being rather shallow. The Owls in five.
Hurricanes vs Saints
I'll bet Saint's GM and league commish Geoff Young is running around in circles and shouting: "Yeaaah!" The Saints are no doubt revelling at the chance to know-off their longtime nemesis; this is the TFHL's longest running and most heated rivalry - although it has sorted of been put on simmer for the last while, this may just be the thing needed to make it boil again. The Saints are lead by Jason Spezza, while former Cup champs the Hurricanes still have one of the most formidable rosters in the league. This series will come down to grit. Here's a question for GM Young: do you pull up you hot-shot young goalie, Pascal Leclaire, and give him another shot? His talent will likely be required, yet his five hole is a big liability. Canes in six.
Spirit VS Aces
This should be the most watched series in the East. The Aces and the Spirit have oodles of awesome, bronzed young talent, plus two of the oldest, moldiest veteran GMs in the league. The Spirit are compelled by Vlad "Who?" Orszagh, Zach "the Dakota Kid" Parise, Krys "If I had a middle name with a K it would be really embarrasing" Kolanos, and Marian "it's Ha-SAH" Hossa. In the red corner, the Aces have so much talent, one must wonder why they aren't sitting at the top of league: Ilya Kovalchuk, Ziggy Palffy, Paul Kariya, Vaclav Nedorost; and then the kids, my goodness!, the kids: Dominic D'Amour, Andy Berenzweig, Alex Kostitsyn, and Tim Brent. I hate to break the Spirit's, well, spirit, but it's all Aces. Aces in five.
Western Conference
Wheat Kings vs Canucks
The Wheat Kings? The Wheat Kings? What the...? Yes, you can rightly say that Mr. "I've been in a coma the last two months." It seems being at the bottom of the league is good for something - it forces the team's GM to deal, and deal, and put together a team that can go from .389 to .613 in fifty games and handedly win the President's Trophy. What is perhaps most interesting about this series is that it features some of the best young talent in the game: the Canucks' Jonas Johansson and the Wheaties' Dmitri Kazionov tore-up the league this year; also featured are Matt Jones, Eric Staal, Jakub Hulva, Steve Bernier, and Dany Heatly. It's hard to see the Wheaties falling, but the Canucks are the sort of team that could pull-off an upset. That being said, the Kings have handled the Canucks quite easily this season. Wheat Kings in six.
Achaeans vs Renegades
The hardy men of Hellas may have nothing to fear in this battle. The Renegades can claim a victory just by making it out of the 88 game epic struggle which we in the Western Conference call the regular season - but like poor Aeneas, they will be renegades indeed, and off to find their future. The Achaeans, although with some rust starting to show on their armour, boast four lines of rolling thunder and some of the finest snipers in the league. Dan Cloutier has never been a bettin' man's favourite, but all he needs to do is let in less goals than his team scores - simple enough, right? Achaeans in four.
Pain vs Blackhawks
Ah the Pain, the Pain... After starting the season tormenting the league, the defending champs looked like they had this season in a sinch; then fate entered and they started to lose - going through a troubling second half, watching their reign of terror collapse in the face of the little upstart corporals, apply named Kings. That being said, this series is the Pain's to lose - but they may just lose it: the Hawks are proven playoff competitors and just the team to take on the Pain. The Pain could find themselves dispatched to the guilatine, but with their talent they will likely live to die another day. Pain in six.
Blades vs Ice
A High Noon Showdown at the OK Economy as the two Saskatoon rivals go at. Needless to say, the Blades were the surpise of the season, consistently playing at the top of the West and in the end deserving of home ice advantage. Backed-up in net by the solid Jose Theodore and piloted by Sergei Gonchar, the Blades may just continue their season long success. The Ice on the other hand are the TFHL's Scotsmen - stingy, stingy, stingy. The best defensive team in the league, they finished the season with 13 less goals against than the second most defensive team. Of course lack of goals could ice the Ice, but unless Theodore can win the series by himself, the Ice should have this one. Ice in six.
Rednex vs Colt 45
Ah, of all the series, this one best exemplifies the class, the sophistication, the all-around haute couture of l'esprit de hockey. The Rednex, the Colt 45'S - to say it is like speaking a Botacelli painting, or another tour de force from Kid Rock. Yes, for all ya Hillbillies, Hicks, and Rubes out there, we give you the one and only Pick-Up Truck Classic. The Rednex have ascended to the top of the East through some good moves by GM Ambrose Garvey and deservedly took the conference this year. They don't have a lot of depth, but who needs depth when you have the top four they do, led by Rocket Richard winner Alexei Kovalev. The Colt 45's similarly made it into the playoff by virtue of some savy moves; GM Justin Mastrangelo pulled-off a significant coup and playoff-making deal by getting Marty Turco and Patrice Bergeron from the Saints for Pascal Leclaire. However, in this battle of Middle America, those of the red neck should take it. Rednex in four.
Owls vs Clubbers
The Owls have a couple big hooters, that's for sure. Mike Modano and Joe Thornton are the biggest one-two combo in the league, the problem is that the Owls don't have much depth. But the Clubbers have a nice pair of knockers as well with Jarome Iginla and Pavol Demitra. This may turn into an interesting series, but it will likely end up being rather shallow. The Owls in five.
Hurricanes vs Saints
I'll bet Saint's GM and league commish Geoff Young is running around in circles and shouting: "Yeaaah!" The Saints are no doubt revelling at the chance to know-off their longtime nemesis; this is the TFHL's longest running and most heated rivalry - although it has sorted of been put on simmer for the last while, this may just be the thing needed to make it boil again. The Saints are lead by Jason Spezza, while former Cup champs the Hurricanes still have one of the most formidable rosters in the league. This series will come down to grit. Here's a question for GM Young: do you pull up you hot-shot young goalie, Pascal Leclaire, and give him another shot? His talent will likely be required, yet his five hole is a big liability. Canes in six.
Spirit VS Aces
This should be the most watched series in the East. The Aces and the Spirit have oodles of awesome, bronzed young talent, plus two of the oldest, moldiest veteran GMs in the league. The Spirit are compelled by Vlad "Who?" Orszagh, Zach "the Dakota Kid" Parise, Krys "If I had a middle name with a K it would be really embarrasing" Kolanos, and Marian "it's Ha-SAH" Hossa. In the red corner, the Aces have so much talent, one must wonder why they aren't sitting at the top of league: Ilya Kovalchuk, Ziggy Palffy, Paul Kariya, Vaclav Nedorost; and then the kids, my goodness!, the kids: Dominic D'Amour, Andy Berenzweig, Alex Kostitsyn, and Tim Brent. I hate to break the Spirit's, well, spirit, but it's all Aces. Aces in five.
Western Conference
Wheat Kings vs Canucks
The Wheat Kings? The Wheat Kings? What the...? Yes, you can rightly say that Mr. "I've been in a coma the last two months." It seems being at the bottom of the league is good for something - it forces the team's GM to deal, and deal, and put together a team that can go from .389 to .613 in fifty games and handedly win the President's Trophy. What is perhaps most interesting about this series is that it features some of the best young talent in the game: the Canucks' Jonas Johansson and the Wheaties' Dmitri Kazionov tore-up the league this year; also featured are Matt Jones, Eric Staal, Jakub Hulva, Steve Bernier, and Dany Heatly. It's hard to see the Wheaties falling, but the Canucks are the sort of team that could pull-off an upset. That being said, the Kings have handled the Canucks quite easily this season. Wheat Kings in six.
Achaeans vs Renegades
The hardy men of Hellas may have nothing to fear in this battle. The Renegades can claim a victory just by making it out of the 88 game epic struggle which we in the Western Conference call the regular season - but like poor Aeneas, they will be renegades indeed, and off to find their future. The Achaeans, although with some rust starting to show on their armour, boast four lines of rolling thunder and some of the finest snipers in the league. Dan Cloutier has never been a bettin' man's favourite, but all he needs to do is let in less goals than his team scores - simple enough, right? Achaeans in four.
Pain vs Blackhawks
Ah the Pain, the Pain... After starting the season tormenting the league, the defending champs looked like they had this season in a sinch; then fate entered and they started to lose - going through a troubling second half, watching their reign of terror collapse in the face of the little upstart corporals, apply named Kings. That being said, this series is the Pain's to lose - but they may just lose it: the Hawks are proven playoff competitors and just the team to take on the Pain. The Pain could find themselves dispatched to the guilatine, but with their talent they will likely live to die another day. Pain in six.
Blades vs Ice
A High Noon Showdown at the OK Economy as the two Saskatoon rivals go at. Needless to say, the Blades were the surpise of the season, consistently playing at the top of the West and in the end deserving of home ice advantage. Backed-up in net by the solid Jose Theodore and piloted by Sergei Gonchar, the Blades may just continue their season long success. The Ice on the other hand are the TFHL's Scotsmen - stingy, stingy, stingy. The best defensive team in the league, they finished the season with 13 less goals against than the second most defensive team. Of course lack of goals could ice the Ice, but unless Theodore can win the series by himself, the Ice should have this one. Ice in six.
Blackhawks - PR
Well folks welcome back to the most exciting time of the year, the TFHL playoffs! The Blackhawks are in the show yet again since their expansion season TFHL 12 when they went to the cup finals and took the Hurricanes to 7 games only to lose a hearbreaking close series.
Many fans in the Chicago area however feel this year may be different. Hey let's face it, this team doesn't have much time. With no draft picks, TC points or many young prospects coming up in the system, for the Hawks the time is now.
Coach Brian Sutter was finally reached for comment after hours of team meetings and the usual playoff preparations. "This first series is gonna be a close one. We went undefeated against the Pain this season going 2-0-1 and we only allowed 3 goals in those 3 games against their formidable offense. We just gotta keep doing the little things right and take it to them night after night. Their is no reason why we can't compete with the best teams in this league even if they are the reining champions. We have the experience in every position and when Khabby shows up to play he is one of the hardest goalies to break on any given night."
After hours of press confrences the Blackhawks players all looked primed and ready to go. They face off in game 1 tonight and by looks on their faces they won't dissapoint. It's going to be close, it's going to be tough, but thats Blackhawk hockey and what better time of year to show the world what you're made of.
The Blackhawk Reporter, Playoffs Round 1
Aces - PR
'Aces Wild' in 9-1 Shellacking of Spirit in Game 1
By I.P. Freely, Chepstow Times
Game 1 of this much anticipated series saw the Aces go on an unexpected 9-1 route of the Spirit on their turf. Chepstow took the crowd out of it early scoring 6 unanswered goals before Glen Murray managed to pour one in late in the second period. The surprisingly unprepared Spirit squad looked weak in the opener, while the focused Chepstow team appeared to be on a mission to make a clear statement early in this series.
Going into game 1, concern over the lack of playoff experience among the Ace's young core of players was certainly a concern, but coming out in fine fashion it was clear that the kids were out to prove their detractors wrong. Leading the pack was 19-year old Dominic D'Amour who kept the score keepers busy with a head spinning 5 points.
Team veteren Pierre Turgeon commented after the game that although this was a big win, the team had to stay focused. "Sometimes after a big win you tend to come out slow the next time around. The Spirit are going to be out for blood in game 2, so we will have to be ready. Us old guys are going to make sure that the young guys on this team understand that."
Coming off a surprise season, Milan Hnilicka proved that he's no fluke, backstopping the Aces in a solid effort allowing 1 goal on 25 Spirit attempts. When asked how he was handling the unfamiliar "number 2" role, goalie Jocelyn Thibault humbly stated his support of Hnilicka, simply saying "...he deserves it. Milan had an amazing season, and although I'd like to be on the ice, I'm glad he's having so much success."
The only negative for the Aces was an injury to Wayne Primeau midway through the second. Primeau is listed as day-to-day, suffering with a severe Charley Horse. Jeff Farkas will get the nod to replace him in game 2.
Pain - PR
The Michigan Pain have gone through the slump of a championship team. The Pain started the season like they finished Season 13. Although once the realization of having to play a whole 88 game season to get back to meanigful hockey, they slumped in the last hafl of the season. Now the Pain should have a that feeling of excitement that they once have had. They will be ready to go, and they will be feared. Everyone questions the defence and the goaltending of the Pain year after year. But this year the stats speak for themselves. Gigy was the only goalie to finsih with a .900 save percentage. The team as a whole was third in goals against and fifth in goals for. Although the Pain finsihed 3rd in the west, what people should remember is that the Pain finsihed last year in 5th. If the Pain are to repeat, they must come together as a team again.
The Pain will face the Bulin Wall and the Blawkhawks. The Blawkhawks will not be an easy team to advance from. If the Pain are to be succesful tehy will need to control the Center of the ice with two former all-stars, Lindros, and Christensen. The Pain will also need to get to the Bulin Wall fast, but reports are that Nikolai is not feeling up to par. GM Elliot was questioned as to what he thought about the Hawks, "This could be the last time we see the Blawkhawks in ahwile because they have traded away all their future for this moment. That moment is a shotgun start tournament at Pebble Beach in a weeks time." GM Elliot all jokes before the game, but come game time, the mood shall change.
RELATED NEWS
- Raiders fans RIOT after final game of the season. Raiders GM Goodlet, benched 7 superstars including their franchise player Alfie to give away games so that they could have a better draft pick. The league had no comment on the matter but said it will look into it.
Michigan Press
The Pain will face the Bulin Wall and the Blawkhawks. The Blawkhawks will not be an easy team to advance from. If the Pain are to be succesful tehy will need to control the Center of the ice with two former all-stars, Lindros, and Christensen. The Pain will also need to get to the Bulin Wall fast, but reports are that Nikolai is not feeling up to par. GM Elliot was questioned as to what he thought about the Hawks, "This could be the last time we see the Blawkhawks in ahwile because they have traded away all their future for this moment. That moment is a shotgun start tournament at Pebble Beach in a weeks time." GM Elliot all jokes before the game, but come game time, the mood shall change.
RELATED NEWS
- Raiders fans RIOT after final game of the season. Raiders GM Goodlet, benched 7 superstars including their franchise player Alfie to give away games so that they could have a better draft pick. The league had no comment on the matter but said it will look into it.
Michigan Press
Flames - PR
Well, it's that time again and the Flames are not in the playoffs for the 2nd consecutive year. The Flames are in a rebuilding stage and no one said it would be pretty the first few years. The team now boasts some of the best young talent in the league and has amazing depth in top 9 forwards and top 6 defense. The Flames are also posed to continue to add youth with four 2nd round picks this year and two 1st round picks the following year. The Flames are filled with young players who will continue to get better. They also have 95 TC poitns which will make them even more dangerous the next year. The Flames struggled early with forced GM Patrick Amantea to make trade, after trade, after trade which did not allow for any team chemistry. After the franchise put Patrick on a trade embargo near the deadline, the team went .500 hockey through the last stretch. This was even with their #1 goalie out for a few weeks of play. The Flames look incredible and there are rumors they have the
ir rookie, Dvorak on the blocks and already have a deal in place. The other rumor is they will have a ton of free cash in the offseason to make a big jump on a true #1 goalie. With the team finally coming together, it looks like the Flames are in a position to contend next year. Flames, GM had the following comments before the start of the playoffs. "We are on the outside looking in again but that is fine with the franchise. We didn't expect immediate results but knew it would take time. Many still believe in the conspiracy about the Flames and their poor start and believe the commish was still mad at the Flames team having a gangbang with his wife during last offseason but what can you do. Where the team has struggled to make money in the arena, the naked pictures and hardcore movie they made is settign record sales on the internet."
The team is getting ready for next season and their next film. I heard the GM of the Wheatkings wife and sister are hot as well....
Patrick
Flames
ir rookie, Dvorak on the blocks and already have a deal in place. The other rumor is they will have a ton of free cash in the offseason to make a big jump on a true #1 goalie. With the team finally coming together, it looks like the Flames are in a position to contend next year. Flames, GM had the following comments before the start of the playoffs. "We are on the outside looking in again but that is fine with the franchise. We didn't expect immediate results but knew it would take time. Many still believe in the conspiracy about the Flames and their poor start and believe the commish was still mad at the Flames team having a gangbang with his wife during last offseason but what can you do. Where the team has struggled to make money in the arena, the naked pictures and hardcore movie they made is settign record sales on the internet."
The team is getting ready for next season and their next film. I heard the GM of the Wheatkings wife and sister are hot as well....
Patrick
Flames
Hurricanes - PR
HURRICANES COMPLETE MOST DISAPPOINTING SEASON SINCE TFHL11
Calgary, AB - It came down to the wire and the Hurricanes just couldn't deliver. The team could have had first overall in the Eastern Conference but fell into a miserable slump going into the playoffs. A terrible 2-5-3 record in the last 10 games spelled the end for a third franchise consecutive 100-point plateau season.
The team is entering a trying playoff season which will see them take on the rival Senators in what should be an exciting and eventful matchup. Not in the lineup against the Senators will be top centre Shawn Bates and winger Shane Endicott. Bates is expected back for Game 2 while Endicott is expected to be out possibly until the 3rd round, if the Hurricanes make it that far.
The Hurricanes top line against the Senators today will be Alexandre Svitov, recently moved back to centre, which is a position he was drafted at. On Svitov's side he will have Markus Naslund and Bill Guerin. The crafty wingers are expected to produce a bulk of the output for this club.
Hurricanes Report Card
OFFENSE: A+
The Hurricanes boast an impressive lineup of scoring talent including the likes of Alexandre Svitov, Markus Naslund, Bill Guerin, Brendan Morrison, Anson Carter, and Shane Endicott.
DEFENSE: C+
The Hurricanes lost a vital asset of their defense core with the trade that sent Janne Niinimaa to the Senators for Shane Endicott. With only Chris Pronger as the strongest defenseman on the team, it leaves a gapping hole with only players such as Pavel Kubina, Richard Matvichuk, Marek Malik and Robert Schnabel.
GOALTENDING: B+
Roman Cechmanek played well this season and helped turn around woes for the Hurricanes franchise. His contract is up for renewal, its a wonder whether or not the Hurricanes may renew it.
PLAYOFF PREVIEW
Calgary is up for a tough challenge. There is no All-Star goaltender like Sean Burke, and no tough defense core that helped drive the Hurricanes in the past. If the Hurricanes can overcome their season issues against the Senators and defeat them, it is likely this club will have the ability to go to the TFHL Championship final. The team needs to regroup and focus, otherwise it will be over before it even starts.
Calgary Sun 2005
Calgary, AB - It came down to the wire and the Hurricanes just couldn't deliver. The team could have had first overall in the Eastern Conference but fell into a miserable slump going into the playoffs. A terrible 2-5-3 record in the last 10 games spelled the end for a third franchise consecutive 100-point plateau season.
The team is entering a trying playoff season which will see them take on the rival Senators in what should be an exciting and eventful matchup. Not in the lineup against the Senators will be top centre Shawn Bates and winger Shane Endicott. Bates is expected back for Game 2 while Endicott is expected to be out possibly until the 3rd round, if the Hurricanes make it that far.
The Hurricanes top line against the Senators today will be Alexandre Svitov, recently moved back to centre, which is a position he was drafted at. On Svitov's side he will have Markus Naslund and Bill Guerin. The crafty wingers are expected to produce a bulk of the output for this club.
Hurricanes Report Card
OFFENSE: A+
The Hurricanes boast an impressive lineup of scoring talent including the likes of Alexandre Svitov, Markus Naslund, Bill Guerin, Brendan Morrison, Anson Carter, and Shane Endicott.
DEFENSE: C+
The Hurricanes lost a vital asset of their defense core with the trade that sent Janne Niinimaa to the Senators for Shane Endicott. With only Chris Pronger as the strongest defenseman on the team, it leaves a gapping hole with only players such as Pavel Kubina, Richard Matvichuk, Marek Malik and Robert Schnabel.
GOALTENDING: B+
Roman Cechmanek played well this season and helped turn around woes for the Hurricanes franchise. His contract is up for renewal, its a wonder whether or not the Hurricanes may renew it.
PLAYOFF PREVIEW
Calgary is up for a tough challenge. There is no All-Star goaltender like Sean Burke, and no tough defense core that helped drive the Hurricanes in the past. If the Hurricanes can overcome their season issues against the Senators and defeat them, it is likely this club will have the ability to go to the TFHL Championship final. The team needs to regroup and focus, otherwise it will be over before it even starts.
Calgary Sun 2005
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Hurricanes - PR
CALGARY HURRICANES IN BATTLE FOR PRESIDENT'S TROPHY
The 'Canes are not as mighty as they once were, but they are still battling for 1st overall
CALGARY, AB - The Hurricanes have shifted a lot of their team over the last season which all started with the retirement of all-star goaltender Sean Burke. The team has since seen the season starting with a rookie tandem of goaltenders and then quickly a change in guard with the addition of Roman Cechmanek who can warm up faster than a pizza pop and cool off quicker than an ice cube on the beaches of Cancun. Markus Naslund will likely not hit the 100-point plateau, nor will his counterparts in Shawn Bates or Bill Guerin. Chris Pronger is a almost a shoe in for the Norris Trophy for the first time in his career in the TFHL, and the rookie sensations of Ryan Kesler, Brandon Reid and Jason King continue to tear it up on the farm team.
Not too bad.
The Hurricanes are battling with five other teams for first place overall in the TFHL: Owls, Rednexs, Wheat King, Pain and Achaeans. Each team packs as much fire power as the mighty 'Canes and are all serious contenders when the playoffs start in mere weeks. With the season almost over, lets take a look at some of the top performers and who just might light it up for the Hurricanes in the final games of the season.
(1)
MARKUS NASLUND
The reigning two-time League MVP has been the heart and soul of this franchise. Markus is known for firing it up in the final games leading up to the playoffs, this time it might decide whether or not he will hit that elusive 100 point plateau.
(2)
ALEXANDRE SVITOV
This 19-year old sophmore helps compliment the teams aggressive scoring line up. Only a point behind Markus Naslund's team leading 82 points, its expected this crafty winger will explode on a line featuring Brendan Morrison and last seasons Rocket Richard trophy winner Bill Guerin.
(3)
CHRIS PRONGER
This might be the season Chris Pronger wins the Norris Trophy. The past two seasons he's seen Nicklas Lidstrom take home the trophy. If the Captainof the Hurricanes continues his steady and resilient performance this season, he'll be a shoe-in for the leagues top defenseman.
(4)
SHAWN BATES
Although Shawn won't come close to what his break out season was last season, being the top centre between Markus Naslund and Shane Endicott, Shawn should be able to compliment the scoring finess of Naslund and the aggressive force of Endicott.
(5)
BILL GUERIN
A true veteran and one of the top power forwards in the league. Although he is not putting up the numbers like he used to, its expected this born-leader to take the team by the horns in the final stretch.
Stay Tuned for the Calgary Sun's 1st round playoff preview for the Hurricanes.....
Calgary Sun ©
Friday, December 31, 2004
Hurricanes - PR
CALGARY HURRICANES TRIGGER BLOCKBUSTER DEAL WITH DIVISION RIVALS BOBCATS
Calgary Hurricanes GM Derek Major announced today that the Hurricanes have acquired Anson Carter, Marek Malik and Ryan Kesler in exchange for Andy Delmore, Tobias Stephan and Branislav Fabry. With the long term injury to Shane Endicott the Hurricanes needed a replacement right away.
"I don't see this as a short term improvement. We have both Marek and Anson who are 29 and 30 each, while we have a great youngster in Ryan Kesler who will be able to lead this team along with Alex Svitov in the future. We lost some depth on the goaltending position, Tobias was coming along nicely, but we'll need to see about building that piece of the puzzle in the off season, for now goaltending is strong with Roman and Frederic at the helms."
The key player of this deal is Anson Carter who is expected to slot in with a line of Bill Guerin and Mike York. A bit of a shock for Carter is he is coming from a lower conference team to one of the powerhouses of the TFHL. "Its pretty weird, I mean I was the 3rd highest scoring player on my team and now well I think I am the 7th highest scoring player on the team. Calgary is a great team, just look at their great leaders like Markus Naslund, Chris Pronger and Billy Guerin. I like this team a lot." Said Carter who was reached via phone after the announcement of the deal.
Robert Schnabel was called up from the Hurricanes farm team, he is a defensive minded player who is expected to log a lot of time alongside Chris Pronger.
Calgary Hurricanes ©
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Geoffrey Young - PR
WORKERS OF THE WORLD UNITE
TO PURCHASE WHALERS FRANCHISE FROM TFHL
Yes, the Soviet Union has returned and has decided to purchase the former TFHL Whalers franchise. For too long has the team sat unwanted by CAPITALIST AMERICAN PIGS, so the Workers of the World have united to control the team. No longer will star players Alexeev, Keefe, Horton, Baranka and others will remain on the farm. They will rise up to their glorius new positions on the Pro club. Too long has the Bourgeois kept these glorius players down. The CLASS STRUGGLE of between these peoples have restricted the glorius Whaler franchise from succeeding. The Red Army will no longer settle for failure. In the words of captain COMRADE JOESEPH (Sakic), "We will fight every game to spread the glory of the Proletariate to our brothers accross the TFHL and the World! LONG LIVE THE PEOPLE AND LONG LIVE THE RED ARMY.
~ RED ARMY COACH JOSEPH STALIN. Nov 20, 2004 - The Globe and Mail
Friday, November 19, 2004
Wheat Kings - PR
WHEAT KINGS ANNOUNCE HUL'VA DEAL
The Wheat Kings announced Friday that they had completed a three-way deal with the Saints and Misconduct. The deal is the second one in less than a week in which the Kings have added a premiere young talent. The nine player, three team deal saw long time Wheaties Niklas Hagman and Dan Sprang leave along with prospect Valterri Filpulla, in return the Kings acquired Jakup Hulva and one-time Wheatie Steve McCarthy.
"Anytime you deal the kind of talent we did it hurts," GM Tyler Young commented, "but the key is to get back talent in return where you need it. We gave away Danny, who was a an outstanding player and only beginning what will be an excellent career, and Nicklas, who has been a consistent worker for us for two seasons; but we felt with the skill and youth of our current defense Danny was expendable in the right deal as long as we could get back a decent defenceman to fill his spot, and Nik had to go to make the deal possible."
With McCarthy, who is young and solid defensively, the Wheat Kings believe they have added another solid top four d-man and some one who can adequately fill in Sprang's sport. However, the real jem of the deal is Hulva. He as been long coveted by the Kings - he is rumoured to have been their desired player back in the TFHL13 draft. Like Dmitri Kazionov, picked-up last week, Hulva has tremendous goal scoring ability; however, he is also a more rounded player with excellent on-ice vision and play-making skill.
"The acquisition of Hulva is an unbelievable joy," Mr. Young stated. "With Hulva, Kazionov, Hartnell, and Jones, I think we are on par with some of the best as far as having a young, extremely talented core in place for the next ten years. These last couple deals have solidified this team for I don't know how many seasons - it's almost sad when I think about it, I'm soon going to lose opportunities to make deals with a group like this in place."
The Wheat Kings announced Friday that they had completed a three-way deal with the Saints and Misconduct. The deal is the second one in less than a week in which the Kings have added a premiere young talent. The nine player, three team deal saw long time Wheaties Niklas Hagman and Dan Sprang leave along with prospect Valterri Filpulla, in return the Kings acquired Jakup Hulva and one-time Wheatie Steve McCarthy.
"Anytime you deal the kind of talent we did it hurts," GM Tyler Young commented, "but the key is to get back talent in return where you need it. We gave away Danny, who was a an outstanding player and only beginning what will be an excellent career, and Nicklas, who has been a consistent worker for us for two seasons; but we felt with the skill and youth of our current defense Danny was expendable in the right deal as long as we could get back a decent defenceman to fill his spot, and Nik had to go to make the deal possible."
With McCarthy, who is young and solid defensively, the Wheat Kings believe they have added another solid top four d-man and some one who can adequately fill in Sprang's sport. However, the real jem of the deal is Hulva. He as been long coveted by the Kings - he is rumoured to have been their desired player back in the TFHL13 draft. Like Dmitri Kazionov, picked-up last week, Hulva has tremendous goal scoring ability; however, he is also a more rounded player with excellent on-ice vision and play-making skill.
"The acquisition of Hulva is an unbelievable joy," Mr. Young stated. "With Hulva, Kazionov, Hartnell, and Jones, I think we are on par with some of the best as far as having a young, extremely talented core in place for the next ten years. These last couple deals have solidified this team for I don't know how many seasons - it's almost sad when I think about it, I'm soon going to lose opportunities to make deals with a group like this in place."
Monday, November 15, 2004
Pain - PR
After going unbeaten in the first 11 games of the season to total a 20 point streak, the Pain drop two in a row. Michigan has come off many minor injuries to key players like Janssen, Fisher, and Tanguay. Although they survived, even Gigy said they needed a break. "Its very stressful not losing your first game till 12 games in. The pressure on your back is very large to keep winning. We will regroup and reclaim top spot in the league." Although the Pain went 9-2-2 and 7-2-1 in their last 10 games they have seemed to slip by the radar as Canadian national newspapers have completely ignored how 'HOT' they are. They also averaged in the first 11 games over 5.00 Goals for a game, and were the 3rd lowest Goals against per game. This would be considered one scary team to face. Infact Michigan left many teams wondering what hit them like the Blades being hammered 7-1, the Rockets 6-1, the Renegades 9-3, and the Clubbers 7-2. They also defeated the winning streak of the Redenx who were up 5-1 in the beginning of the second to eventually lose 6-5 in overtime.
Although the teams success so far did not prompt why Kimmo was traded. The only explanation we can think of, is that Yonkman is potentially a better player then Kimmo Timonen. The Pain also have many players not seeing ice time as they are rich with depth. GM Elliot is still considering deals, but is being very cautious. Reports are that the coaching staff is not happy
with the play of Alex Tanguay. Most likely GM's will try and claim him in a trade.
Michigan Press
Although the teams success so far did not prompt why Kimmo was traded. The only explanation we can think of, is that Yonkman is potentially a better player then Kimmo Timonen. The Pain also have many players not seeing ice time as they are rich with depth. GM Elliot is still considering deals, but is being very cautious. Reports are that the coaching staff is not happy
with the play of Alex Tanguay. Most likely GM's will try and claim him in a trade.
Michigan Press
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Hurricanes - PR
CALGARY HURRICANES ACQUIRE ROMAN CECHMANEK FROM CLUBBERS
An intra-division swap see's a new number one goaltender in Calgary
The Calgary Hurricanes acquired Roman Cechmanek for Bates Battaglia and a 2nd round pick today. GM Derek Major made the announcement after the latest lose for the Hurricanes. "We have such an explosive set of forwards and a solid group of defensemen, unfortunately we put too much pressure on Tobias Stephan. His future will come, and we will continue to develop him as he will back up Roman upon his return. We need a solid veteran pressence and Roman will give that to us." Said GM Major.
The young Tobias Stephan, who showed amazing progress last season, went out with an injury in his latest game. This will give the Hurricanes a chance to get back in the standings where they have seen themselves slip.
Calgary Sun
Friday, November 12, 2004
Bobcats - PR
The Brantford Bobcats GM Glenn Merkir would like to announce to all of thier loyal fans that the team has completed a blockbuster trade today with the Apocalypse. Headed to the Apocalypse are potential allstar defenceman Bryan McCabe and forward Vaclav Prospal and headed to the Bobcats are 2 young defenceman that GM Glenn Merkir has had his eye on for some time and hopes that they will be the foundation of the teams defence for years to come. Defenceman Nick Shultz and Duncan Keith will join the team for the teams next game and will be expected to provide the team with a spark from the back end. Duncan Keith will be expected to try and lift the Bobcats under performing powerplay back to respectablilty as will Nick Shultz. Combined with Johan Berggren they will be a trio to watch for for years to come!! I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bryan McCabe and Vaclav Prospal to all thier hard work and dedication to the Bobcats Franchise and wish them all the success in the future with thier new team!! Also wish James Sykes all the best for the rest of the season and what may come in the future with the Apocalypse!!
Glenn Merkir/GM Bobcats
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Hurricanes - PR
WATCH OUT....THEY'RE BACK!
Last season's top line of Naslund-Bates-Guerin lit up the Scoreboard tonight!
Calgary, AB - The Calgary Hurricanes erupted against the Blackhawks. Rookie goaltender Tobias Stephan (3-1-2) sparkled in net for the Hurricanes to earn his 3rd win of the season and to top it off, the Hurricanes leading duo of Markus Naslund, Shawn Bates and Bill Guerin combined for 10 points.
The three gentlemen were caught walking out of the arena and while a reporter asked Naslund how it felt to explode out of his slump, Naslund looked at him and just winked with a grin.
The city of Calgary is starting to warm up as another great season is looking to appear on the horizon.
Calgary Sun
Saturday, November 06, 2004
Hurricanes - PR
HURRICANES HAVE THE ONE-TWO LINE COMBO
The Hurricanes have a heavy threat with Six forwards
The Calgary Hurricanes are looking sharp. The Hurricanes picked a youngster in the TFHL13 draft, and today, he is leading the TFHL in scoring. Alexandre Svitov is tops on the league and is currently on pace for 198 points. Alex suggests his second season in the TFHL seems more relaxed and he is more confident because of the aid he's received by one of the leagues top snipers in Markus Naslund.
The 'Canes are a threat to be reckoned with with the second line of Shane Endicott, Mike York and Alexandre Svitov putting up more points than the top line of Markus Naslund, Shawn Bates and Bill Guerin. "I don't think it necessarily means we have a problem. Markus is a strong player and he is getting a lot of chances. Once he starts clicking and if our youngsters on the second line can keep things up, its going to be a great year." said coach Marc Crawford.
DID YOU KNOW?
The TFHL Champions of TFHL12 have slowly began to move on from the Hurricanes. The remaining Hurricanes today that won the TFHL Cup in TFHL12 include Shawn Bates, Markus Naslund, Bill Guerin, Richard Matvichuk, Bates Battaglia, Robert Lang, Martin Lapointe, Andy Delmore, Dan Boyle, Frederic Cassivi and Rosario Ruggeri.
Where are the others now?
Forwards
Alexei Zhamnov - Rednexs
Janne Niinimaa - Saints
Joey Tetarenko - Sioux (Farm)
Michael Nylander - Sioux
Tony Amonte - Owls
Toby Petersen - Hurricanes (Farm)
Ivan Ciernick - Hurricanes (Farm)
Goaltenders
Sean Burke - Retired
Steve Passmore - Hurricanes (Farm)
Calgary Sun 2004
Clubbers - PR
It may not be surprising as much as it was inevitable. The 2nd line of Vasicek, Sedin and Tkachenko has seen its first casualty of the year. The first 4 games of the season has seen the line play ice cold. The line is a combined -4 at the beginning of the season and because of that Sedin will spend time in the press box tonight when the Clubbers face a much improved Sioux team. Coach Nolan has expressed his concern that the team is a 1 line team, and without a significant contribution from the 2nd line the team will be playing golf again this spring.
With the benching of Sedin, Coach Nolan has called up rookie Jeff Tambellini, the rookie sensation led the
While Coach Nolan concedes that this is a one time change and not a permanent benching for Sedin, he hopes that the opportunity to watch a game may help Sedin appreciate that he is in the line-up. Nolan is also hoping the benching may instill a new sense of urgency into line mates Vasicek and Tkachenko or there may be more benchings to come.
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