Posts Tagged ‘Jonas Gustavsson’

12 NHL Goalies That Must Step It Up For The 2010-11 Season

22, Jul 2010

The 2009-10 NHL season saw a lot of otherwise unknown goaltenders establish themselves as the go-to netminders for their respective teams.

Jonathan Quick in Los Angeles, Michael Leighton in Philadelphia, and Jimmy Howard in Detroit all had excellent seasons, followed by more than respectable playoff runs.

With the 2010-11 season just a few months away, many NHL netminders will be looking to duplicate or surpass their 2009 success, with others trying to re-establish themselves as the number one crease beast.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at 12 NHL goalies that must step up their play in order to have a successful 2010-11 season.

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Five Current Maple Leafs Fans Could Remember For A Long Time

1, Jul 2010

As a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs, whether the star player of the team or the two-minute-per-night man on the fourth line, you’re going to get talked about. A lot.

There is no such thing as the offseason, there are always rumours swirling, and there isn’t a day that goes by without constant dissection from every media outlet and fan in the city.

Thus is the nature of playing in the most hockey-crazed city in the world.

It’s just how things work in Hog town, so writing an article on much-talked-about players on the Leafs who fans will remember for a long time might seem a tad obvious; but what I’m talking about goes deeper than your everyday banter in line at Tim Horton’s.

What I’m talking about are the young players on the team who have a chance at being more than just a guy who came in and filled a roster spot for a few years before moving on and getting replaced by the next name on a sweater.

I’m talking about the guys who when their career ends with the Leafs, their popularity just continues to grow as fans remember ‘the good old days’ they laced them up for the blue and white.

And as the youth movement in Toronto has seen the team stocked with numerous key pieces for the future, there is a chance that a few of them could have such an impact for years, so their names are never forgotten in this city.

The type of player that when their name is mentioned, any fan can instantly recall their favourite memory of the past involving them. Wendel Clark. Steve Thomas. Curtis Joseph. Tie Domi. Darcy Tucker. Mats Sundin.

These names, along with others, are the kind of guys who make a team what they are. They don’t have to be the captain or the face of the franchise. They don’t have to be the leading scorer or the starting goaltender.

They don’t even have to be one of the best players on the team.

But they do have to bleed blue and white, have the heart and passion rarely seen, and create the sort of memories that don’t just turn them into fan favourites forever, but give fans the feeling of a certain connection that they don’t get with just anyone.

These players are special, and there are a few on this current Leafs roster who have a chance to one day be on the list of names already mentioned.

Players that fans of the Maple Leafs will remember for a very long time.

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Leafs Unveil New Jersey and New Captain

14, Jun 2010

Toronto Maple Leafs announced Dion Phaneuf as the 18th Captain of the storied franchise while also unveiling a new jersey that the team will begin wearing in the 2010-2011 NHL seaon.

The Toronto Maple Leafs unveiled a new look Jersey and with it, a new Captain.  Dion Phaneuf, acquired in a January 31st trade that saw [...]

Ushering in a New Generation: Toronto Maple Leafs

13, Jun 2010

Ushering in a New Generation, features our talented writer Katlyn Gambill taking a deeper look into team success based on a player’s age. Today, she looks at the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are the sixteenth oldest team in the league.

At an average player age of 27.52 years, the Toronto Maple Leafs are on the younger [...]

Toronto Maple Leafs Post Season: Trades, Signings and Beyond

10, Jun 2010

July 1st is approaching and Maple Leaf’s GM Brian Burke is sure to be busy.

With endless trade rumors, free agent possibilities and draft day shenanigans being thrown around, we can be sure of one thing. Burke will make it happen.

Whatever ‘it’ is, is another story. But I, as well as many others, trust Burke in building this team to be a contender in the 2011 and/or 2012 seasons.

Burke has made a bunch of things fairly clear:

1) He wants to acquire a top six forward, preferably by trade.
2) He is not afraid to re-sign Kaberle, but would like to trade him.
3) Kulemin’s asking price is too high right now.
4) Kadri’s spot on the team is his to lose.

From these we can gather a couple other things:

1) No one is safe from trade (except certain players for political reasons).
These players would be Kessel (due to trading two first rounders and a second), Kadri (he has basically said Kadri has a spot on the team, PLUS I do not see Burke trading away a highly touted, seventh overall centre.)
Phaneuf (he will be the captain, and unless they could bring in the greatest captain of this century that will be able to play for the next ten tears [I'm lookin at you Toews] he will have a safe spot on the roster).

2) He does not necessarily want to acquire a top five draft pick. (However possible it is or isn’t).

3) WIth the signing of Holzer, the strong play of Gunnarsson, the large contract of Jeff Finger and the imminent release of Exelby there will be spots on the blue lineup for grabs in training camp.

Taking all of these things into account, Burke looks to be focusing on offense. Already stacked on the back end from NHL to Junior leagues, the Leafs needs forwards. Burke will get forwards this offseason. I can promise you this, only because Burke is known for his big trade prowess.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs Year In Review

3, Jun 2010

Recapping the 2009-10 Toronto Maple Leafs season and a look at next year by those who know the Leafs best, LeafsWire.ca

Falling Leaf? Leafs GM Brian Burke Says Kulemin’s Asking Price Too High

30, May 2010

Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brian Burke is a businessman.

However, he is certainly not kidding around when he states that the progress of signing forward Nikolai Kulemin is not looking so good right now.

On Thursday afternoon, the same day that Brian Burke signed Toronto Maple Leafs defensive prospect Korbinian Holzer of the DEL to a two-year entry level contract, he also stated that there is no progress concerning the contract agreement between him and Nikolai Kulemin.

Brian Burke was asked on Thursday about the contract talks and he replied with this; “What he is asking for is not what we are prepared to pay.”

It doesn’t really get much more straightforward then that.

There are rumors circulating that the Russian Winger is currently asking for three or more million dollars per year.

“I think his agent is a good guy. But we will grind on and see what happens,” Burke replied when asked about the contract controversy.

Nikolai Kulemin is currently 23 years old and registered a career high 36 points in 78 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2009-10 season.

However, Kulemin was one of, if not the most improved player on the Toronto Maple Leafs team.

Right now the contract talks seem to be at a freeze point and by the looks of it, they are not making any progress.

Comment and post your thoughts on whether or not Nikolai Kulemin is asking for too much!?

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

World Championship Hockey Tournament: A Few Maple Leafs Still Lacing Them Up

10, May 2010

The World Championship Hockey tournament is usually the last thing you want your favorite players to be a part of. It simply means your team isn’t playing for the “big mug.”

For the Maple Leafs, a team currently on the rebuild, the extra hockey really shouldn’t do any harm.

From mapleleafs.com ;

“It was a good start at the 2010 World Championships for some of the Leafs’ players.

Jonas Gustavsson was in net for Sweden as they defeated Norway, 5-2, in their first game. Gustavsson turned aside 19 Norwegian shots, while Rickard Wallin recorded two assists in the win.

Defenceman Carl Gunnarsson continued to carry over his strong play as he played 17 minutes and was a plus one in the win.

Nikolai Kulemin played almost 13 minutes for Russia in their 3-1 win over Slovakia, recording one assist on Maxim Afinogenov’s opening goal.

Mikhail Grabovski had a strong weekend as he had one assist and played a team-high 22 minutes in Belarus’s 5-2 win.

Two Leafs’ were held scoreless in their opening games.

Francois Beauchemin saw 13:44 minutes of action in Canada’s 5-1 win over Italy on Saturday. Christian Hanson played almost eight minutes as the U.S. lost 2-1 to Germany on Friday.”

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It’s good to see a few Maple Leafs still on the ice this spring. There really can’t be enough hockey for these guys to play if they really want to improve.

As key players, Beauchemin and Kulemin will garner the most spotlight of the Leafs participating. At least that’s who I’ll have my eye on the most.

Francois Beauchemin is wearing an “A” for the Canadian squad, and with any luck he can possibly talk Steve Stamkos (a “self admitted Leafs fan”, according to TSN this morning) into coming to the mecca.

A man can dream, right?

Hopefully this is the last time these Leafs players play in the World Championship for a while.

 

Email maplestirup@gmail.com

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The Future Is Bright: The 10 Most Promising Prospects Around The NHL

9, May 2010

Over the years, the National Hockey League has been filled with superstar caliber talent. Players like Alexander Ovechkin, Drew Doughty, Sidney Crosby, Mike Green and Evgeni Malkin come to mind.

Do you notice one thing that all of those players have in common? Ovechkin is 24 years old, Sidney Crosby is 22, Drew Doughty is 20, Mike Green is 24, Evgeni Malkin is 23.

All of those players are in their early 20’s and are already taking over the NHL.

And don’t worry because there is plenty of more young talent that is coming our way either next season or in two years from now.

In no particular order, expect these following 10 young guns to make a splash in the NHL in the near future.

Cody Hodgson – Centre – Vancouver Canucks – 20 Years Old

Cody Hodgson was drafted 10th overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Hodgson is only 5′11 and just 182 pounds, but his logic and knowledge on the ice over-powers his lack of size. Hodgson was ready to suit up for the 2009-10 Season but was held back due to a back injury. Hodgson scored eight goals and 20 points in 13 games this season with the Brampton Battalion of the OHL. Cody Hodgson should be capable to play for the Vancouver Canucks next season if he can remain healthy. Should Hodgson play in the NHL next season, expect him to put up impressive numbers if he plays along side one of the Sedin’s or almost any other players to an already elite team that the Vancouver Canucks have.

Oliver Ekman -Larsson – Defense – Phoenix Coyotes – 18 Years Old

Oliver Ekman-Larsson is a very high-skilled defense-men who has great hockey knowledge and a large plus in his skating ability. Larsson is  just 18 years old. Larsson was selected sixth overall in the 2009 draft and was the second defense-men to be picked, behind Viktor Hedman who went second overall. He is currently in the Swedish Elite League and has a chance at making the Coyotes team next season. Next year or not, Oliver Ekman-Larsson is going to add much more talent to an already strong Phoenix Coyotes defensive system.

Jordan Eberle – Centre – Edmonton Oilers – 19 Years Old

Jordan Eberle is not even 20 years old and he is already known nation-wide as a Canadian Hockey hero. Famously known for the game-tying goal in the semifinals game against Russia in the 2009 World Junior Hockey Championships. Jordan Eberle was selected 22nd overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. One concern for Jordan Eberle is his size and his physical play. He is a rather small player but his knowledge and his ability to perform in any situation can match his lack of size. He scored an amazing 50 goals and 106 points in the WHL with the Regina Pats in just 57 games. He spent 11 games down in the AHL and scored 6 goals and 14 points. Jordan Eberle is expected to play for the Edmonton Oilers next season.

Alex Pietrangelo – Defense – St.Louis Blues – 20 Years Old

Alex Pietrangelo is ranked as the number one prospect in all of hockey on www.hockeyfutures.com. Pietrangelo was selected fourth overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, behind only Zach Bogosian, Drew Doughty, and Steven Stamkos. The Canadian D-Man represented his country in the World Juniors in both 2009 and 2010, winning gold in 2009, and silver in 2010. Pietrangelo has a huge up-side to his hockey career, especially with his impressive offensive skill while maintaining a big 6′3 frame on the blue line. He has great vision on the ice and can develop into a very good offensive defense-men that can quarterback a power play. Alex Pietrangelo is on his last season entering the 2010-11 season with the St.Louis Blues before his entry level contract runs out so expect him to suit up for the majority of the season in 2010-11.

Nikita Filatov – Left Wing – Columbus Blue Jackets – 19 Years Old

Nikita Filatov was selected sixth overall in the 2008 draft & was just the second forward to be drafted in that draft, behind Steven Stamkos. You can’t deny Filatov’s potential and talent but the fact that he was unhappy in Columbus and decided to play in the KHL, really brings things into consideration. None the less, Filatov is still apart of the Blue Jackets organization and should he play with the team next season, they might have a really good chance at making the postseason. Filatov is a quick and slik Left Winger who is a natural goal scorer. Last season he scored four goals in eight games with Columbus and has a total of six goals in 21 career NHL games.

Jacob Markstrom – Goalie – Florida Panthers – 20 Years Old

Jacob Markstrom is one of two goalies to make this list. Markstrom was selected in the second round in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft by the Florida Panthers. He is already known nation-wide for his crazy antics that he pulled against Canada in the World Juniors in 2009. Markstrom is a big Swedish netminder that could develop into an elite goalie in the future. Over his Swedish Elite League career he has averaged an outstanding 2.25 GAA and a .920 Save Percentage over 85 career games in the Swedish Elite League. Expect Jacob Markstrom to take over the starting role in Florida possibly next season or two years from now.

Nazem Kadri – Center – Toronto Maple Leafs – 19 Years Old

Nazem Kadri is expected to be the next up and coming star in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization. Brian Burke landed big when he drafted the shifty forward seventh overall in the 2009 draft. Kadri spent the 2008-09 season in the OHL with the London Knights and tallied an excellent 35 goals, and 93 points in 56 games. Nazem Kadri is almost guaranteed a spot on the Maple Leafs roster next season and expect him to see significant ice time, especially on the power-play. Kadri was apart of the silver medal winning team for Canada in the 2010 World Juniors Championships. Nazem Kadri is one of the strongest shoot-out players in his draft class. A concern for Kadri would be his offensive awareness and turning the puck over in the neutral zone.

Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson – Left Wing – Edmonton Oilers – 19 Years Old

Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson is one of the most skilled prospects in the NHL. The super Swede is a very slick and quick skater and has a very good shot. Edmonton got their wish when they selected Svensson 10th overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. The Oilers built on their bright future with plenty of promising prospects in the system. Svensson could play as early as next season with the Edmonton Oilers. Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson, also known as MPS (a short form for his rather long name) scored 12 goals and 29 points with Timra IK of the SEL. Expect Svensson to surprise more then a few faces whenever he enters the NHL and will most certainly be an exciting player to watch in the next few years.

Jonathan Bernier – Goalie – Los Angeles Kings – 21 Years Old

Jonathan Bernier is the second and last goalie to crack this list. Bernier was selected 11th overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. In three games this season with the big club, Bernier posted an excellent 3-0-0 record while maintaining a superior 1.30 GAA and a .957 Save Percentage and even recorded a shutout. Jonathan Bernier’s already impressive resume continues to the AHL (American Hockey League) by being awarded goalie of the year in the AHL. Bernier posted 30 wins and had an excellent 2.03 GAA with a .936 Save Percentage and recorded nine shutouts for the Manchester Monarchs. Bernier is expected to add solid goal-tending to an already strong team in the Los Angeles Kings. Bernier will most likely see a reasonable amount of games next season with the Los Angeles Kings.

Brayden Schenn – Center – Los Angeles Kings – 18 Years Old

Last but certainly not least, Brayden Schenn finishes off the list. The younger brother of Toronto Maple Leafs Luke Schenn is one of the best prospects around the NHL. He was selected fifth overall in the 2009 Draft. Schenn spent the year in the WHL with the Brandon Wheat as their leader and captain. In 55 games this past season in the WHL, Schenn posted an out-standing 34 goals and 99 points. Los Angeles has a very bright future with two of the ten most promising prospects in the league almost ready to make the jump from lower league to the big league. Expect Brayden Schenn to make an instant impact on the Los Angeles Kings next season as he is likely to make the team in the 2010-11 regular season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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End of an Era? Three Scenarios that See Tomas Kaberle Leaving Toronto

7, May 2010

Trade One

To Toronto Maple Leafs:

David Krejci (Position: Centre, Age: 23, Salary: $3.750M)

Jordan Caron (Position: Right Wing, Age: 19, Prospect)

Mark Recchi (Position: Right Wing, Age: 41, Salary: $1.000M)

To Boston Bruins:

Tomas Kaberle (Position: Defense, Age: 31, Salary: $4.250M)

Jerome Flaake (Position: Left Wing, Age: 20, Prospect)

 

Boston acquires—One of the best, if not the best puck moving defense-men in the NHL (Tomas Kaberle), and a young prospect who still has time to develop.  Jerome Flaake is a very fast skater, and has good knowledge when on the ice.

Boston releases—A second line centre (David Krejci) who is gradually developing into a first line centre-man if his numbers can slightly increase. A 19 year old prospect (Jordan Caron), who has good size and could see an NHL career in possibly 2011; a veteran winger (Mark Recchi) who is on a contract year, Boston would benefit from trading him instead of letting him go for nothing in return.

 

Boston Burins—Save $50,000 in total—Toronto Maple Leafs—Acquire more offensive depth

 

 

Trade Two

To Toronto Maple Leafs:

Bobby Ryan (Position: Right Wing, Age: 22, Salary: $1.922M)

Todd Marchant (Position: Centre, Age: 35, Salary: $1.125M)

To Anaheim Ducks:

Tomas Kaberle (Position: Defense, Age: 31, Salary: $4.250M)

Mikhail Grabovski (Position: Centre, Age: 25, Salary: $2.900M)

Christian Hanson (Position: Right Wing, Age: 24, Prospect)

Toronto acquires—Top line winger (Bobby Ryan) who will add depth to the offense and make the top two lines much more effective and more of a threat. Brian Burke would have to sign him to an estimated $4.975M Dollars. They acquire centre-man Todd Marchant who will be on a contract year next season; he could play the fourth line.

Toronto releases—An all-star defense-men (Tomas Kaberle), a centre-men (Mikhail Grabovski), and a top prospect (Christian Hanson)

 

Anaheim Ducks—Lose $6.755M Dollars in cap space. But with-out signing Bobby Ryan, they lose an estimated $1.78M Dollars. Plus Koivu, Selanne, Neidermayer being UFA’s.

 

Trade Three

To Toronto Maple Leafs:

Jeff Carter (Position: Centre-Man, Age: 25, Salary: $5.000M)

To Philadelphia Flyers:

Tomas Kaberle (Position: Defense, Age: 31, Salary: $4.250M)

Kenny Ryan (Position: Right Wing, Age: 18, Prospect)

 

Dmitri Vorobiev (Position: Defense-man, Age: 25, Prospect)

 

Toronto acquires—Their first-line centre-man that they are need of; A true goal scorer (Jeff Carter) who will take off the pressure put on Phil Kessel, at a young age also (25)

Philadelphia acquires—Quarterback for the Power-play (Tomas Kaberle) who can play well with Chris Pronger setting him up for that big shot from the point; A pretty good prospect in Kenny Ryan who is just 18 years old, and spent his season transitioning to the Windsor Spitfires playing along side top prospects Cam Fowler and Taylor Hall; A big and steady defense-man in prospect Dmitri Vorobiev who is already at 211 Pounds and can contain many players along the boards.

 

Toronto Maple Leafs—Lose $750,000 Thousand Dollars but receive a missing piece for their crucial offensive puzzle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Playoff Bound: How the Toronto Maple Leafs Can Make the Playoffs in 2011

4, May 2010

Many critics—also known as haters—around the league like to criticize the Toronto Maple Leafs on their below mediocre goaltending, their overpaid players (typically defensemen), and their moronic management.

Fundamentally, people detest the Toronto Maple Leafs’ lack of success since either the NHL lockout—or the more fashionable year, 1967, the last time the Toronto Maple Leafs won a Stanley cup.

But the truth is, even if Toronto were to make the postseason—or for that matter, win a Stanley Cup—people would still find a way to make others believe that the Leafs suck.

The actual truth is that Brian Burke has done a wonderful job with this club in his time here.

No, you do not need to point out that the Toronto Maple Leafs finished 29th in the NHL.

We all know that.

From the day Burke became general manager, he stated that this rebuild was not going to happen overnight. Of course, he was speaking in a figure of speech and meant that this rebuild wasn’t going to be a one-year act.

Burke also said this wasn’t going to be a five year deal. Meaning that he is committed to turning this ship around in the next two seasons.

After one year with the club, Burke signed the best goaltender outside of the NHL. Burke signed a player that over 20 teams in the NHL showed interest in, Tyler Bozak. Burke drafted a player that was in the top five for scoring in the OHL this season (plus a shoot-out specialist) in Nazem Kadri.

He got rid of the two worst contracts with Toronto in Jason Blake and Vesa Toskala, in one deal. He acquired an Olympian-potential defensemen in Dion Phaneuf. The timing couldn’t have been better, as Phaneuf’s value is as low as possible right now.

The reason Burke gave away three draft picks for Phil Kessel was because, like he said, he doesn’t have time for a five-year plan, and doesn’t have time for these draft picks and prospects to develop to a full potential.

Summer 2010 may be the most crucial offseason for the Toronto Maple Leafs in a very long time. Whatever happens in the months of July, August, and September—even a bit of June—can either make or break the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 2010-2011 season.

I have full confidence in Burke’s ability to improve the Blue and White’s 2010-2011 campaign. 

He has a history of acquiring stars of the NHL, dating back to drafting both Henrik ad Daniel Sedin in the first round of the NHL entry draft. He was able to get Boston to give up their leading goalscorer at just the age of 21 for undecided and unproven hockey players.

He acquired Dion Phaneuf, who in November and December was Olympics-bound, and in January, prompted outrage wheh he did not make the team.

But when Phaneuf came to Toronto, it was all bash, bash, bash, and more bash.

Should Burke acquire either Bobby Ryan, James Neal, or Patrick Sharp in the offseason, as well as Colby Armstrong, who I am almost certain will come to Toronto, I don’t see the Leafs missing the postseason come April 2011.

The youth and speed in Toronto is what puts a smile on my face more then anything when it comes to this organization.

Stack them individually and their core players are the future of not only the Toronto Maple Leafs, and not only the whole NHL, but of all sports.

They are dynamic, quick, young, physical, and are taught to play a full 200 feet of the game. They are like a machine designed to play this day’s type of hockey in the NHL.

They can keep up, they have good chemistry together, and are basically like a well-oiled machine. If you disagree with me, here are some fun stats for you to follow…

The Toronto Maple Leafs were 6-3-0 in the preseason, and they played all their young stars in the preseason. When the regular season started, Ron Wilson went back to the old core group that has proved countless times it cannot succeed as a whole for any longer.

After the trade deadline, the Toronto Maple Leafs were basically out of competition for the NHL postseason in April of 2010, so, Wilson went with his young stars again.

Since the NHL trade deadline 2010, the Toronto Maple Leafs went 11-6-3 to finish the regular season.

Combine that with the preseason, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have a record of 17-9-3 when the majority of their roster is their youth. Their penalty-killing immensely improved, as did their goaltending.

There is obviously work that is needed to be done this offseason, but I believe that Brian Burke will achieve his goals to bring in a top-line centre or a top-line winger, and a few second- to third-line players, to complete.

It should be a truly exciting roster to watch, come October 2010.

 

 

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

The Future Is Bright: Four NHL Teams Destined To Succeed In The Future

3, May 2010

Do you notice a pattern going on in the NHL in the past years? Let me give you a little hint…In the 02-03 Season, the six worst teams in the league were Carolina, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Florida, Buffalo, & Nashville. Carolina went on to win the Stanley Cup in 2006, Pittsburgh won the cup in 2009, Buffalo made it to the conference finals in 2007, & Nashville have seen their fair share of post-season action.

In the 03-04 Season, the five worst teams (now this is a good one) were: Pittsburgh, Washington, Chicago, Columbus, and Phoenix. Three of those five teams are the best in the league today, the other two have seen playoff action since that time.

In 05-06, (again, a very good one), the five worst teams were: St.Louis, Pittsburgh, Washington, Chicago, & Boston. Four of those five teams have had a good four years since that time. It keeps on going…

In 06-07, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Washington, & Chicago were the five worst teams. Three years later, all five of those teams made it into the playoffs this season, three of those five teams made it into the playoffs last season.

I reckon, Edmonton, Toronto, Florida, Columbus, & the New York Islanders will probably all be successful in the future…Maybe not all of them will grow at the same pace, but, it will happen. However, those are not my four teams that will be successful in the near future, these are…

New York Islanders

Their saviour John Tavares was on a roll in the near end of this regular season, kind of like Steven Stamkos was last season. The New York Islanders have some good young talent to look forward to, Kyle Okposo, Matt Moulson, Calvin De Hann, Jesse Joensuu, & they still have Rick Dipietro in goal but they better hope that he becomes healthy quick because he can still be a solid goal-tender in this league.

It may take some time for players like Calvin De Hann, Jesse Joensuu, Kirrill Petrov until they produce as a threat but once they do, Long Island will be a scary team to play.

Prediction: New York Islanders will see post-season action in two seasons. John Tavares will score 35+ goals next season.

Carolina Hurricanes

They really fought the injury bug this season but, the Carolina Hurricanes are still a good team and have the capability to be a real threat in the Eastern Conference. Led by Eric Staal, Jussi Jokinen has been a pleasent surprise achieving 30+ goals this season. Brandon Sutter is one of the best young guns the Canes’ have and he had an excellent season with the club in 2009-2010. Keep in mind Zach Boychuk, Drayson Bowman, Jamie McBain.

They have one of the best goalies in the NHL (when healthy) in Cam Ward.

Prediction: Carolina Hurricanes will make the post-season next season.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Love em’ or hate em’, they have a very bright future. To be fair, I may be a little biased here since I am a Leafs fan, but you can’t deny the fact that the Leafs have many good prospects and young talent. Since about 90 percent of their offensive core consists of players with the age of 25 and under, all they have is young guns. Phil Kessel is 22, Tyler Bozak is 24, Nazem Kadri is their top prospect, along with future starting goal-tender Jonas Gustavsson.

If Brian Burke can add some more depth to this club in the off season, then they might just have what it takes to be a playoff contending team next season, and real threat in two, three or four seasons.

Prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs will make the post-season next season. They will have the most band-wagon fans suddenly jumping ship in the league.

Edmonton Oilers

They have a few really good prospects. Jordan Eberle, Magnus-Pajavaari Svennson, Linus Omark. Along with the talent of Ales Hemsky, Andrew Cogliano, Sam Gagner, & Gilbert Brule, Edmonton can be a very dangerous team in the near future.

Their main concern will be goal-tending, they need to acquire a goalie in this off-season because neither Devyn Dubnyk, or Jeff Delersaurier are ready to take on the number one role.

Prediction: Edmonton Oilers will make the post-season next season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

Toronto Maple Leafs: 15 Bold Predictions for Next Season

2, May 2010

It is extremely early but, it’s always fun to predict and especially with Toronto.

Trades, players, statistics, will they make the playoffs? Their are plenty of possibilities to happen for Toronto in the up-coming off season. Like if all the Bobby Ryan/James Neal/Patrick Sharp rumors are true. Or how will Nazem Kadri do in his rookie season?

It will all be answered right here, right now.

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Toronto Maple Leafs: 15 Bold Predictions For Next Season

2, May 2010

It is extremely early but, it’s always fun to predict and especially with Toronto.

Trades, players, statistics, will they make the playoffs? Their are plenty of possibilities to happen for Toronto in the up-coming off season. Like if all the Bobby Ryan/James Neal/Patrick Sharp rumors are true. Or how will Nazem Kadri do in his rookie season?

It will all be answered right here, right now.

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Tyler Bozak: Toronto Maple Leafs Rookie Is as Good as a Top Three Draft Pick

27, Apr 2010

When Brian Burke was named general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, hope was in the air through Young Dundas Square to the Air Canada Centre in Toronto.

Brian Burke added many pieces to the puzzle, such as Mike Komisarek, Francois Beachumein, Jonas Gustavsson, Phil Kessel, Colton Orr, and on one hot, dry, summer day, came along a kid that goes by the name of Tyler Bozak.

Over 20 teams were interested in acquiring Bozak including all of the six Canadian teams.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Tyler has chosen to sign with the Maple Leafs.” Those were the words of Brian Burke when he announced Bozak had decided to chose Toronto as his future destination. You weren’t the only one Brian.

The Saskatchewan native started his profesional career in the American Hockey League with the Toronto Marlies, the affilate team for the Toronto Maple Leafs. He was called up for one game in October and registered a point. However in the second half of the season, he drastically made an impact on the team and the signing back in summer time started to really pay off, and much sooner then anyone thought it would.

Tyler Bozak registered 27 points in 37 games this season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. I think we can all say that is a pleasant surprise!

27 points in a season may seem like a very mediocre or below average type of season, however, when you didn’t even play half the season, that is considered pretty darn good.

Bozak averaged 0.72 points per game, which is first among rookies that have played at-least 30 plus games. If you do the math, if Tyler Bozak kept up that pace for a full 82 games, he would have finished the season with 59 points, which is the most among any NHL Rookies.

Matt Duchene was selected third overall and registered 55 points in a full season, John Tavares was selected first overall and registered 54 points in a full season, Evander Kane was selected fourth overall and achieved no more then 30 points this season. Kane played 66 games and put up 26 points. Bozak played 37 games and put up 27 points.

Need I say more?

I’m not predicting the future and saying that Evander Kane, John Tavares, Matt Duchene won’t be as good as Bozak or anything because after all, Duchene, Tavares, and Kane are all under the age of 20 while Bozak is 24. But maybe that says that these rookies being selected in the first few picks should take a year or two in the juniors before they actually get rushed into the NHL.

Nevertheless, if I were to pick the top five draft picks of 2009 today, I’d probably select Matt Duchene first, John Tavares second, and Tyler Bozak third.

If all goes well, Bozak can very well be in competition or even ahead of the level that most rookies THIS season, will be playing at NEXT season.

 

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Toronto Maple Leafs: The Journey Continues For a Big Time Goal Tender

25, Apr 2010

Johnny Bower, Felix Potvin, Curtis Joseph, Eddie Belfour: what do all those names have in common?

Well, they’ve all played in goal for the Toronto Maple Leafs at one point of their respective careers.

But what else do each of those net-minders passionately share together?

They were all great.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have failed to seize a sound and opportune goaltender that they can partially and comfortably depend on when attempting to hold a lead in crucial games during the season.

A goaltender that is capable of taking over the starting role with confidence and ease.

One that can play 60-plus games in a regular season and not be fully fatigued, mentally or physically.

However, since the time of Eddie “Eddie the Eagle” Belfour, the Maple Leafs have been unable at capturing a No. 1 goaltender.

They have however, attempted this goal many times throughout the past five seasons.

During the 2005-2006 season, the Leafs missed the postseason for the first time in the whole decade.

They fired coach Patt Quinn, and brought in 2003-2004 Calder Memorial Trophy winner, Andrew Raycroft.

Fans around the nation were cheering in the streets when “Razor” entered the town.

However, we would all learn that Raycroft’s Vezina caliber rookie performance in 2003-2004 was a one time thing and we were all so foolish to be blinded to think that Raycroft was the answer, weren’t we?

The following season, Finnish goaltender Vesa Toskala was brought in to the city of Toronto.

Little did we know that, Vesa, similar to Raycroft, would become the laughing stock of sports in Toronto for the next two years.

Now, giving Toskala some credit, he performed at a pretty steady pace in his first season.

He averaged 2.74 goals against him and racked up 33 wins, which is five shy of a franchise record for most wins by a goaltender in a regular season, which may I add, “Razor” tied that record at 37 wins.

Nevertheless, Toskala entered the 2008-2009 season with much promise and optimism.

But this time, his career in Toronto and his reputation of being a very clutch and solid goaltender like his days back in San Jose went straight down hill.

Fighting injury problems and the fans that surrounded Toskala whenever he played a game in the Air Canada Centre, Vesa did not look like a legitimate No. 1 goaltender.

In fact, he looked quite the opposite.

The Maple Leafs had one goalie to put all the pressure on, Justin Pogge.

Pogge, once again proved that goal tending in Toronto is like cheese and nutella, simply wrong, and will never work.

But of course, like Leafs fans love to do so often, we gained our hope and optimism was in the city of Toronto once again when the Maple Leafs hired new general manager Brian Burke.

Burke signed a long term deal, and will hopefully guide this desperate club back to the glory days, whenever that was…

The Maple Leafs were so desperate for a goaltender, they signed veteran and former Leaf, Curtis Joseph before the season started.

Now don’t get me wrong, “CuJo” was one of the best Leaf goalies of all time.

But at the age of 40, I don’t think he is able to play like he did back in the early years of this decade.

When Toskala got injured, the Leafs turned to free agency and signed Martin Gerber for the remainder of the season and surprisingly, he did alright with the club.

Even if it was short lived seeing that Gerber only played for nearly two months.

In the offseason, once again, for the millionth, billionth, trillionth time, us Leaf fans put on our sunglasses because we were convinced that the future was just that bright.

Brian Burke, did not disappoint this time when he landed Swedish goaltender Jonas Gustavsson to a one year deal.

Gustavsson was known as the best goaltender in hockey, outside of the NHL.

With the tandem of Toskala and Gustavsson in goal, our hope was…need I say it again?

Well, I will.

Once again, Leaf fans had so much hope on Gustavsson, and believe it or not Toskala!

The man that was basically boo-ed out of the arena almost every game.

However, yet again Toskala let Leaf nation down with his below mediocre goal-tending, forcing Burke to make a move and finally, and I mean finally, trading away Vesa Toskala far, far away from Toronto.

As Toskala was on a plane to California, Jean Sebastien Giguere was on a plane to Toronto.

For the remainder of the season, “Giggy” and “The Monster” shared the spot in goal and believe it or not, it actually worked out!

Gustavsson went on an incredible six game winning streak and Giguere posted back-to-back shutouts in his first two games as a Maple Leaf!

The veteran was brought to Toronto to mostly mentor the “Swedish Monster” until he can, if you will, spread his wings and fly.

Not more then a week ago, Brian Burke added to the “hope & optimism” sign Leaf fans carry around with us by signing Finnish goaltender Jussi Rynnas to a two year contract.

Believe it or not Leaf nation, but I truly do believe that the problem between the pipes has been solved. 

At least for the next five years or more, if all things go according to plan.

 

 

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

Toronto Maple Leafs: The Journey Continues For a Big Time Goal Tender

25, Apr 2010

Johnny Bower, Felix Potvin, Curtis Joseph, Eddie Belfour: what do all those names have in common?

Well, they’ve all played in goal for the Toronto Maple Leafs at one point of their respective careers.

But what else do each of those net-minders passionately share together?

They were all great.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have failed to seize a sound and opportune goaltender that they can partially and comfortably depend on when attempting to hold a lead in crucial games during the season.

A goaltender that is capable of taking over the starting role with confidence and ease.

One that can play 60-plus games in a regular season and not be fully fatigued, mentally or physically.

However, since the time of Eddie “Eddie the Eagle” Belfour, the Maple Leafs have been unable at capturing a No. 1 goaltender.

They have however, attempted this goal many times throughout the past five seasons.

During the 2005-2006 season, the Leafs missed the postseason for the first time in the whole decade.

They fired coach Patt Quinn, and brought in 2003-2004 Calder Memorial Trophy winner, Andrew Raycroft.

Fans around the nation were cheering in the streets when “Razor” entered the town.

However, we would all learn that Raycroft’s Vezina caliber rookie performance in 2003-2004 was a one time thing and we were all so foolish to be blinded to think that Raycroft was the answer, weren’t we?

The following season, Finnish goaltender Vesa Toskala was brought in to the city of Toronto.

Little did we know that, Vesa, similar to Raycroft, would become the laughing stock of sports in Toronto for the next two years.

Now, giving Toskala some credit, he performed at a pretty steady pace in his first season.

He averaged 2.74 goals against him and racked up 33 wins, which is five shy of a franchise record for most wins by a goaltender in a regular season, which may I add, “Razor” tied that record at 37 wins.

Nevertheless, Toskala entered the 2008-2009 season with much promise and optimism.

But this time, his career in Toronto and his reputation of being a very clutch and solid goaltender like his days back in San Jose went straight down hill.

Fighting injury problems and the fans that surrounded Toskala whenever he played a game in the Air Canada Centre, Vesa did not look like a legitimate No. 1 goaltender.

In fact, he looked quite the opposite.

The Maple Leafs had one goalie to put all the pressure on, Justin Pogge.

Pogge, once again proved that goal tending in Toronto is like cheese and nutella, simply wrong, and will never work.

But of course, like Leafs fans love to do so often, we gained our hope and optimism was in the city of Toronto once again when the Maple Leafs hired new general manager Brian Burke.

Burke signed a long term deal, and will hopefully guide this desperate club back to the glory days, whenever that was…

The Maple Leafs were so desperate for a goaltender, they signed veteran and former Leaf, Curtis Joseph before the season started.

Now don’t get me wrong, “CuJo” was one of the best Leaf goalies of all time.

But at the age of 40, I don’t think he is able to play like he did back in the early years of this decade.

When Toskala got injured, the Leafs turned to free agency and signed Martin Gerber for the remainder of the season and surprisingly, he did alright with the club.

Even if it was short lived seeing that Gerber only played for nearly two months.

In the offseason, once again, for the millionth, billionth, trillionth time, us Leaf fans put on our sunglasses because we were convinced that the future was just that bright.

Brian Burke, did not disappoint this time when he landed Swedish goaltender Jonas Gustavsson to a one year deal.

Gustavsson was known as the best goaltender in hockey, outside of the NHL.

With the tandem of Toskala and Gustavsson in goal, our hope was…need I say it again?

Well, I will.

Once again, Leaf fans had so much hope on Gustavsson, and believe it or not Toskala!

The man that was basically boo-ed out of the arena almost every game.

However, yet again Toskala let Leaf nation down with his below mediocre goal-tending, forcing Burke to make a move and finally, and I mean finally, trading away Vesa Toskala far, far away from Toronto.

As Toskala was on a plane to California, Jean Sebastien Giguere was on a plane to Toronto.

For the remainder of the season, “Giggy” and “The Monster” shared the spot in goal and believe it or not, it actually worked out!

Gustavsson went on an incredible six game winning streak and Giguere posted back-to-back shutouts in his first two games as a Maple Leaf!

The veteran was brought to Toronto to mostly mentor the “Swedish Monster” until he can, if you will, spread his wings and fly.

Not more then a week ago, Brian Burke added to the “hope & optimism” sign Leaf fans carry around with us by signing Finnish goaltender Jussi Rynnas to a two year contract.

Believe it or not Leaf nation, but I truly do believe that the problem between the pipes has been solved. 

At least for the next five years or more, if all things go according to plan.

 

 

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

Toronto Maple Leafs: Grabovski and Four Others Heading to the Worlds

24, Apr 2010

This years World Hockey Championships will take place primarily in Cologne Germany from May s7th to 23rd although there are also venues in Mannheim and Gelsenkirchen.

This 2000 year old city is home to some of the worlds most popular events including the Cologne Carnival.

Cologne boast a population of over one million residents but annually hosts in the neighborhood of around 110 million day guests.

This years tournament will not likely draw close to that number but still holds promise for Leafs fans everywhere as there will be no less than five Toronto Maple Leafs players participating in this years tournament.

There have been plenty of Leafs representing their countries on the world stage over the teams long history, most notably of course is former captain Mats Sundin who played in a total of six World Championships and one Winter Olympics helping Sweden to a total of four Gold, two Bronze and one Silver medal over the course of his career.

While these five players have a long way to go before they can think of eclipsing tose numbers, this year will be a good start.

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Toronto Maple Leafs Re-Sign “The Monster”

15, Apr 2010

In one of the most anticipated moves of the year, Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke has re-signed Jonas “The Monster” Gustavsson to a two year deal.

The deal will pay Gustavsson in the area of $1.25 million a season and it is expected that the signing will be made official soon.

Gustavsson is coming off of his first season as an NHL goalie. While he struggled out of the gate along with the rest of the team, after two minor heart surgeries and the arrival of veteran JS Giguere he certainly seemed to be finding his form.

The Monster finished the season with a record of 16-15-9, a save percentage of .929 and a goals against of 2.87.

This was a great deal for both sides.

Fueled by the knowledge that the number one spot on the Leafs roster is no longer a question mark the presence of a true veteran like Giguere and the incredible coaching of Alaire, look for the Monster to have an incredible season next year and be among the best in the league!

The two year deal is the ideal as it will allow Gustavsson to earn the raise that he will likely earn over the next two seasons.

It will also give GM Brian Burke the opportunity to gauge the team’s future behind the Monster. Giguere is an un restricted free agent at the end of next season and likely won’t be back as a Leaf.

That will probably thrust youngster James Reimer into the back up role in the second year of Gustavsson’s new deal. An ideal situation for the Leafs to find out what Reimer can do at the NHL level.

 

Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com

Maple Leafs Look Ahead: Where the Rookies Fit in Next Season

7, Apr 2010

“Generation Next” is in full swing for the Toronto Maple Leafs as they head into another offseason without an invitation to the playoffs. And as it’s been at the end of the previous four years, all the talk will shift towards the 2010-2011 season and what it will hold for a team and city that so desperately wants a winner.

The difference about next season is that for the first time in a long time it’s the kids that will be leading the way into what all of Leaf Nation hopes is a berth in the post season.

The brash of rookies that have had a hand in the team’s success down the stretch will get a valuable summer off to bulk up and use what they’ve learned from their limited experience to improve their game.  

Next season is already a hot topic in Hogtown, so let’s take a look at this season’s Leaf rookies, and where they will probably end up in a year that will be the unofficial first of the rebuilt Maple Leafs.

 

Tyler Bozak

It’s been nothing but positive for the 24-year-old Bozak who’s playing in his first NHL season after a year at the University of Denver. After being called up at the beginning of January he has appeared in 35 games in the Blue and White, and hasn’t looked out of place.

His eight goals and 18 assists are impressive but it’s his vision and puck control on display each night that has people calling for Bozak to be a great asset for years to come in Toronto.  

Though he spent much of his time on the first line with Phil Kessel and Nik Kulemin, the past two weeks have seen him assigned to a spot between Christian Hanson and Viktor Stalberg—”The Frat Pack”—and the three former college players have had some instant chemistry.

Next season looks to be a promising one for Bozak who has all but locked up a probable second-line center position, assuming the Leafs pick up a player or have Nazim Kadri there.

Expect him to get significant power play time as well with his great passing and ability to move the puck efficiently.

This summer he will certainly need to put on some weight to his 195 lb frame, but if this season has shown us anything, it’s that he is ready to play a big role for the Leafs for years to come.

 

Viktor Stalberg

There is one thing that comes to mind when mentioning Viktor Stalberg: speed. This kid can fly, and of late he’s been using his quick feet to fly in on the wing and crash the net. It’s something that has the coaching staff excited for his season next year in Toronto.

His energy is electric, his 6′3″, 210 lb frame is one of the biggest on the team, and his ability to score will be a valued part of his game.

His season started out rough, as he suffered a concussion and multiple trips down to the minors before finally he was awarded a permanent roster spot after the trades that sent so many of the Leaf forwards out of town.

Though he only has eight goals and four assists in 38 games, the way he picked up his play in the final weeks of the season will no doubt serve as a confidence booster as he goes into the offseason on a hot streak.

He has certainly done enough near the end of the year to solidify a spot on the team next season, and a second or third-line spot is where you’ll most likely see him for the majority of time.

 

Christian Hanson

It hasn’t been the start to his NHL career that he would have imagined, but Christian Hanson has shown signs that he could be an effective player in the future. He plays bigger than his 6′3″, 200 lb body would suggest and he’s shown to be useful in the defensive zone and in a penalty-killing role.

He has no goals in the 29 games he’s played in, and though it’s been frustrating in that sense, he has plenty he can take into the summer to use while improving all aspects of his game.

He’s got a world of potential but hasn’t shown he can do enough to impact the team at the level they want him to.

Unless the current Leafs roster has little change before next season begins, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Hanson start the year down with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL for some more seasoning before getting a shot at a permanent spot on the Leafs.

There wouldn’t be much point in giving him limited minutes in the NHL when he could be logging major time in the AHL as one of the go-to guys on the club.

He certainly has a future on the Leafs, but it might be too soon to give him the chance at a full season after what he’s shown this year. It doesn’t help his cause that the team will have an abundance of centers next season.

 

Luca Caputi

It’s been somewhat of a dream season for Caputi, as odd as that sounds for a player who was traded from the defending Cup Champions to the Eastern Conference basement dwellers. But for Luca Caputi the chance to come home and play in the city that he grew up in and for the team he cheered for was something he had hoped for since childhood.

He’s played 17 games for the club since the trade from Pittsburgh and has impressed many with what he’s been able to do.

With a goal and five assists since arriving, as well as showing the tenacity and grit that Brian Burke is looking for in his players, Caputi certainly has a shot at reserving a spot on the club for next season.

The left-winger is only 21, making him the second youngest player on the team after Luke Schenn, and that may work against his chances. With so many young players on the team battling for spots, and all of them older than Caputi, the coaching staff may feel that they can afford to send him to the minors for another season to let him work on his game.

He’ll no doubt be used as a call-up if the team deals with injuries, but don’t be surprised to see Caputi down with the Marlies to start next year.

 

Carl Gunnarsson

It will be a tough defensive core to crack next season for the 23-year-old Gunnarsson, but with his excellent play in 41 games this season, he’s certainly given himself a great shot at it.

He’s tallied three goals and 10 assists and has an impressive plus-11 rating, which is the best on the team by a long shot. With all signs pointing to Mike Van Ryn, Jeff Finger, and Garnett Exelby on their way out of town in the offseason, it looks as if “Gunner” will book is spot in the top six.

He has shown that he has fully adapted to the North American game, and though he’s had his mistakes, just as every rookie defenseman, the good greatly outweighs the bad with this kid.

Next season should be his first full year in a Leaf uniform.

 

Jonas Gustavsson

It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. The motto that has stood strong for decades in sports certainly has done so for Gustavsson. After injury issues, multiple surgeries, the death of his mother, and struggling with his play, “The Monster” has found his game and seems to have the confidence of his teammates.

He has a 7-2-1 record in his past ten games and has only allowed more than three goals twice in that time. His rebound control is better, his movement is faster, and he isn’t overplaying shots as much as at the beginning of the season.

It seems to be all coming together for the Swedish rookie, ever since the return from the Olympics and the arrival of Jean-Sebastian Giguere.

It isn’t known whether Gustavsson will start next season in the starter or backup position, but there is no question that he deserves a contract extension and a chance at becoming the Leafs’ starting goaltender for years to come.

He’ll get his shot next season, and if his final two months of this year are any indication of what is to come, the Monster will not only be on the team next year, but will have a major role in the Leafs’ chances at making the playoffs.

 

It’s easy to speculate about next year before the current campaign is even over, but as the rookies continue to grow under the bright lights of Toronto and come together as a team, it seems that all the positive attitude about next year isn’t a joke.

This team has a chance to do something next year, and the kids who’ve started their NHL careers this season will play as big a part as any.

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