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Tampa Bay Lightning Blogger •
Well, it’s draft day, and I promised a special edition of JJ’s Mailbag. This, of course, appears to be a bit of a mistake already as I try to keep my finger on the pulse of the happenings in Montreal from 1,500 miles away but I’m a man of my word.
Just know that I am well-aware that this lead-in to the questions absolutely sucks.
On with it then:
Don in St. Pete writes:
I totally agree on your surprise at the lack of a draft party. Maybe they are seriously considering offers for the pick and don't want 12,000 screaming fans to burn down the building if they trade it. It's been too quiet on the Bolts front to me and the suspense of waiting for RFAs to be resigned (especially Matt Smaby, as I'm worried he'll get an offer sheet) and for draft day to arrive, is almost too much for a dedicated fan.
The conspiracy theorists have gotten to you, Don! The decision not to hold any sort of draft party was directly tied to the decision to host this year’s prospects camp at The St. Pete Times Forum. The rationale, basically, was why get all of these fans together to stand around and watch the draft on television (albeit, a very large television) when, in just a couple of weeks, the same group could convene with the number one pick, the organization’s key figureheads and - who knows - maybe even a free agent signee or two in the house?
Funny. I’m not overly critical of the organization all that often but, after shaming the club for no draft party, I received a phone call within about ten minutes to have the reasoning behind it all explained to me. Read into that what you want.
As for your RFA mention, sit tight. The deadline for qualifying RFAs is Monday. (And I wouldn’t sweat it with Smaby, in particular, too much. I’m sure he’ll be retained.)
In other RFA-related news, according to GM Brian Lawton this morning, the Lightning are close to a 1-year deal with defenseman Lukas Krajicek.
Joe C. writes:
An opinion, but I think the key to the Vincent Lecavalier trade decision is the draft. If Garth Snow picks Victor Hedman, and leaves Lawton with a decision on centers, Lecavalier will go. If he takes John Tavares, Vinny may stay. Lawton will not pick either Tavares or Matt Duchene to be a third line center. To assure that, he has to trade Lecavalier prior to 7/1.
I also do not think Montreal has the right signed assets to give in a trade. I don't think the Lightning want Andrei Markov or the Kostitsyns, so who do you get? Chris Higgins and Guillaume Latendresse are both RFAs and Josh Gorges is the only other defenseman, unless you throw in P.K. Subban.
I think it could be LA, or a three-team trade with LA, Ottawa and the Bolts. I think the Bolts would want Dustin Brown and a defenseman, maybe Jack Johnson, and the LA number 1 pick. LA would get Dany Heatley and Ottawa Lecavaier.
Hi Joe. Love the detailed thought you’ve put into this. Let me address it generally first.
As I’ve made very clear over the past few months, I firmly believe Snow and the Islanders will not pass up the opportunity to select Tavares, making this hypothetical situation immaterial. Still, J.T. to the Island is not yet a sure thing and the idea of Hedman going first overall has led to your train of thought, I’m sure.
I think it’s more speculation than anything, really. But you can certainly see the logic behind it, especially if Lecavalier truly is in play. (I believe that he is indeed available, though that does not mean - by any stretch - that he will be moved on draft day or otherwise.)
Your assertion that Montreal may not have the assets to make the move that their fans seem to think they are destined to make might turn out to be very astute. But Markov and Subban, specifically, would draw some interest, as would an additional first round draft choice and maybe another forward.
All of the speculation as to what the Canadiens have already, might eventually, or at least could theoretically offer really does is provide a decent template for what the Lightning might seek in return for Lecavalier which, predictably, is a lot.
Make no mistake, if he’s moved, he’s moved for a hoard of assets. But I don’t it’s all as directly tied to who goes to the Islanders at number one as it might appear to be.
And, besides, New York takes Tavares anyway. I think. Or Duchene.
As I mentioned on Twitter last night, after a series of conversations I had yesterday, while I can’t pretend to know exactly what the Islanders are thinking, I am more convinced than ever that Hedman is coming to Tampa Bay.
Jonathan M. writes:
I'm a Habs fan and I think you know why I write to you about the Oren Koules vs. Len Barrie story. I read this morning that Koules and Barrie met with the commish about who's going to be in control between the two. The article says that Koules wishes for a 40M$ payroll (which implies that Vinny's out) vs. a 50M$ for Barrie (which implies that Vinny stays). In your blog today, you write, “Oren Koules has been here in Tampa every step of the way since taking over and has been undeniably accountable to media and fans alike throughout. Len Barrie, for the most part, has been in Western Canada.”, so I understand that you're on Koules’ side on this one.
My question: Do you think that Mr. Bettman's decision will directly seal Lecavalier's future with Tampa? And, if yes, are you still on Koules’ side?
I’m not really taking sides, Jonathan. I just want everything to work out well for the long-term sustainability and success of the franchise. I think that it will. I was simply pointing out that, to me, Koules’ accountability deserves some commendation. Barrie, on the other hand, hasn’t had to face near as much scrutiny in his first year as owner of the club.
Will this squabble directly affect Lecavalier’s status? Maybe. But keep in mind that the outcome of the meeting with Bettman was such that nothing really changed. Lawton will negotiate player transactions, on which Koules will have final say. For anything major, Barrie must also be consulted. I think any deal involving Lecavalier would certainly be considered “major” so, if Barrie strongly opposes, it won’t happen. All three men could potentially be swayed, of course.
As for my opinion on the whole ordeal. If they choose to move Lecavalier, I know what challenges that will bring. The package has to be overwhelming and the job of convincing the Lightning fans that what has been done is indeed in the franchise’s best long-term interest is a monumental task (of which, I want no part, personally!)
weaponant writes:
What's the word on Steve Downie? Has he gone for anger management or done anything so far since the season ended to better himself as both a person and a player? The kid has talent, and could be a top-six player, but doesn't seem to have the focus or the desire to do anything about his issues.
What would the final word be heading into the Lightning’s young guns camp?
I’ll let Steve answer this for you himself, to begin with. He graciously offered the following via text:
“The summer is going great. I’m spending half of my time in Minnesota working out with (Lightning strength and conditioning coaches) Chuck Lobe and Kevin Ziegler. When I’m not working out, I’m just spending time at home with my friends and family and golfing a lot with them. Other than that, I’m just relaxing, enjoying the summer and getting focused for the season.”
Personally, I concur with your opinion in terms of Downie as a top-six guy and a guy that fans really want to get behind. In his brief time in Tampa, through all of the fan correspondence I receive, I would say that Downie is probably number three behind Lecavalier and Steven Stamkos as players people ask about the most.
The intensity with which Steve plays the game is both what makes him the player he is and, to this point, what gets him into trouble from time to time. But, minor setbacks aside, I believe that he fully understands this at this point in his career and has taken positive steps toward keeping that intensity at the appropriate level.
The best thing that can happen to Downie is for him to make the club out of training camp and benefit from spending a full season learning under head coach Rick Tocchet. Downie has the “compete level” and grit that Tocchet is always referencing when asked what he wants his team to look like.
As for the upcoming “Young Guns” camp, I’d say the Lightning will probably look for Downie to take on a bit of a leadership role during that week as one of the camp’s elder statesmen, which would no doubt be good for his development as well.
Dave J. writes:
If for some strange reason the Islanders take Hedman instead of Tavares, (biiiig if) how would you feel if the Lightning took Duchene instead of Tavares? I ask because, the more I read about this kid, the more I like him. I get the impression that he's a much more well-rounded player (2-way with a good scoring touch) rather than the purely offensive juggernaut that Tavares is. I'm wondering if that might be a better fit for a team that already has the likes of Martin St. Louis, Stamkos, Lecavalier (assuming he is still here), Ryan Malone (whom I think offensively is just gonna get better) and Vinny Prospal (set to have his usual up year after having his usual down year).
Also, do you think we'll see more of Downie this year?
If anything, as I’ve said before, I see the Islanders taking Duchene over Tavares and not Hedman. Newsday’s Islanders beat writer Greg Logan went so far as to predict that the Islanders will make Duchene the number one choice and Logan is as close to that team as anyone (though I respectfully disagree, mostly because I don’t have the stones to do what Greg did, and still say Tavares is the pick).
Still, since you asked, if given the choice between Tavares and Duchene, most will tell you the Lightning will go with J.T. and then figure out to do from there. (Maybe Toronto goes nuts for Tavares after the draft, rather than before or during.) But your question was how I would feel if the Bolts went with Duchene, wasn’t it?
I’d be fine with that. Prospects don’t rise with a bullet the way Duchene did down the stretch unless there’s really something special there. Everyone I’ve spoken to has raved about the kid and, really, despite what a hoard of fans at the Nassau Coliseum might say or do if their pick is not Tavares, none of the Islanders, Lightning or Colorado Avalanche can make a bad pick in the top three.
Matt Duchene will turn out to be one hell of a player, it appears. The comparisons to the likes of Steve Yzerman and Joe Sakic (while unfair) speak volumes.
As for Downie (as you can see I have no segue skills whatsoever) you can probably infer from my answer to the previous question that I expect him to be with the Lightning from start to finish this year.
Question for you: You’re not a former Major League Baseball player, are you? ;)
Sherry B. writes:
Since Johan Harju is invited to the prospects camp, is there any chance the Lightning sign him and he plays in the NHL instead of the KHL?
No. Lawton said, as recently as yesterday, that Harju is committed to Dynamo Moscow for next season.
Also, keep in mind, the roster for the Young Guns camp that has been released is clearly marked “tentative”.
My friends at HockeyBay.com shared this picture with me:
To which, I say: You’ve done nothing but make me miss my favorite television show of all-time, The Sopranos, far more than I already did.
Thank you.
And fuhgettaboutit!
Nickole writes:
I know you're probably sick of all the Vinny questions but, as far as you know, is there any substance to the rumor that (agent) Kent Hughes has told Koules and/or Lawton that if the payroll is only going to be $40 million, Vinny wants out?
I can tell you that no outward threat has been made about Vinny “wanting out”. But I can also tell you that, if you think I’m sick of the Vinny questions, that pales in comparison to how the Lecavalier camp must feel as this has, literally, gone on forever now.
July 1st can’t come quickly enough for them and for most Lightning fans as well. One way or another, some resolution is sorely needed at long last.
Victor O. (my NHL09 online adversary from Spain) writes:
Hi JJ! Who do you think Tampa is going to pick with the 32nd overall pick?
Hi Vic! Pure speculation on my part but, if Red Deer Rebels forward Landon Ferraro (son of “Chicken Parm” himself, Ray Ferraro) falls to 32, that would be a great pick for Tampa Bay.
Other than that, I won’t throw any other names out there because I expect the Bolts to try and move that 32nd pick, along with something else, probably the 52nd and then some, to get back into the mid-to-late first round. Watch for that.
Peter M. writes:
I was just wondering what do you think the chances are that, if needed, Vinny Lecavalier will restructure his contract and maybe take a pay cut? I really hope we don't end up trading him. Vinny has been my favorite player since I was a kid. I started following hockey because of him. I can't even fathom what it would be like if he was gone, let alone to Montreal. Gross.
Gross. That’s funny, Peter.
Unfortunately, NHL players cannot restructure their contracts, as in other sports. If they could, one might think a guy as philanthropic as Lecavalier has proven to be might be an ideal candidate to do as much. On the other hand, he just signed that 11-year extension so, someone else might tell you he didn’t owe the club anything after his years of service and commitment to the team and the area.
Either way, it doesn’t really matter since, as I said, you can’t restructure a deal in the NHL.
Cookie G. writes:
Please tell me reports of an offer for Toronto’s Tomas Kaberle, believed to be a player and a first round pick, does not involve us!
Rest easy, Cookie. Reports have surfaced that the offer was from the Boston Bruins and it involved Phil Kessel and the #25 pick for Kaberle and Toronto’s #7.
As I believe I said some time, somewhere last night, there is no way the Lightning would move the #2 and a player for Kaberle. They might be interested but not at that price.
Further, I believe Kaberle can’t be moved until 7:00 PM tonight, for one reason or another, probably involving a contract clause of his own.
David S. writes:
Gotta tell you that the Lawton blog was, to date, my favorite Hockeybuzz blog ever! You could not have timed that blog any better but what made it sooooo good was the reaction from people that did not realize it was sarcasm (at it’s finest, I might add). Major props on the blog and your replies to the inane comments in response. Heck, I even posted a link to TSN hoping that some of the idiots would take the time to read it and put the pieces together.
Anyway, just wanted to give you Kudos for a great blog, keep up the good work and I was quite serious when I commented that you should consider moving over to the Flyers blog, you would look great in Black and Orange!
Thanks, David. I had fun with that.
And I sent it Lawton’s way too, which was met with a laugh (I presume - tough to tell via email, but I think he laughed) and a thank you.
(In case anyone missed my latest attempt at humor, inspired by Lawton’s recent email to his fellow GMs, have a look here.)
As for your offer to jump ship to Philly, I must politely decline, as I’d be no good to you or Flyer Nation from such a distance.
If ever I move, however …
Just kidding, Tampa Bay. I’m here for the long haulbarring lucrative offers elsewhere.
That about does it for the draft day edition of JJ’s Mailbag. If I didn’t get to your question, it’s only because someone else asked something very similar. I hope my answers will suffice.
For updates throughout draft day, please follow me at Twitter. I have a feeling that will be the most efficient method for breaking news today. Of course, if anything major hits, I’ll post a quick update here as well.
Enjoy the draft!
JJ
jon.jordan@hockeybuzz.com
JJ on Facebook
JJ on Twitter
Just know that I am well-aware that this lead-in to the questions absolutely sucks.
On with it then:
Don in St. Pete writes:
I totally agree on your surprise at the lack of a draft party. Maybe they are seriously considering offers for the pick and don't want 12,000 screaming fans to burn down the building if they trade it. It's been too quiet on the Bolts front to me and the suspense of waiting for RFAs to be resigned (especially Matt Smaby, as I'm worried he'll get an offer sheet) and for draft day to arrive, is almost too much for a dedicated fan.
The conspiracy theorists have gotten to you, Don! The decision not to hold any sort of draft party was directly tied to the decision to host this year’s prospects camp at The St. Pete Times Forum. The rationale, basically, was why get all of these fans together to stand around and watch the draft on television (albeit, a very large television) when, in just a couple of weeks, the same group could convene with the number one pick, the organization’s key figureheads and - who knows - maybe even a free agent signee or two in the house?
Funny. I’m not overly critical of the organization all that often but, after shaming the club for no draft party, I received a phone call within about ten minutes to have the reasoning behind it all explained to me. Read into that what you want.
As for your RFA mention, sit tight. The deadline for qualifying RFAs is Monday. (And I wouldn’t sweat it with Smaby, in particular, too much. I’m sure he’ll be retained.)
In other RFA-related news, according to GM Brian Lawton this morning, the Lightning are close to a 1-year deal with defenseman Lukas Krajicek.
Joe C. writes:
An opinion, but I think the key to the Vincent Lecavalier trade decision is the draft. If Garth Snow picks Victor Hedman, and leaves Lawton with a decision on centers, Lecavalier will go. If he takes John Tavares, Vinny may stay. Lawton will not pick either Tavares or Matt Duchene to be a third line center. To assure that, he has to trade Lecavalier prior to 7/1.
I also do not think Montreal has the right signed assets to give in a trade. I don't think the Lightning want Andrei Markov or the Kostitsyns, so who do you get? Chris Higgins and Guillaume Latendresse are both RFAs and Josh Gorges is the only other defenseman, unless you throw in P.K. Subban.
I think it could be LA, or a three-team trade with LA, Ottawa and the Bolts. I think the Bolts would want Dustin Brown and a defenseman, maybe Jack Johnson, and the LA number 1 pick. LA would get Dany Heatley and Ottawa Lecavaier.
Hi Joe. Love the detailed thought you’ve put into this. Let me address it generally first.
As I’ve made very clear over the past few months, I firmly believe Snow and the Islanders will not pass up the opportunity to select Tavares, making this hypothetical situation immaterial. Still, J.T. to the Island is not yet a sure thing and the idea of Hedman going first overall has led to your train of thought, I’m sure.
I think it’s more speculation than anything, really. But you can certainly see the logic behind it, especially if Lecavalier truly is in play. (I believe that he is indeed available, though that does not mean - by any stretch - that he will be moved on draft day or otherwise.)
Your assertion that Montreal may not have the assets to make the move that their fans seem to think they are destined to make might turn out to be very astute. But Markov and Subban, specifically, would draw some interest, as would an additional first round draft choice and maybe another forward.
All of the speculation as to what the Canadiens have already, might eventually, or at least could theoretically offer really does is provide a decent template for what the Lightning might seek in return for Lecavalier which, predictably, is a lot.
Make no mistake, if he’s moved, he’s moved for a hoard of assets. But I don’t it’s all as directly tied to who goes to the Islanders at number one as it might appear to be.
And, besides, New York takes Tavares anyway. I think. Or Duchene.
As I mentioned on Twitter last night, after a series of conversations I had yesterday, while I can’t pretend to know exactly what the Islanders are thinking, I am more convinced than ever that Hedman is coming to Tampa Bay.
Jonathan M. writes:
I'm a Habs fan and I think you know why I write to you about the Oren Koules vs. Len Barrie story. I read this morning that Koules and Barrie met with the commish about who's going to be in control between the two. The article says that Koules wishes for a 40M$ payroll (which implies that Vinny's out) vs. a 50M$ for Barrie (which implies that Vinny stays). In your blog today, you write, “Oren Koules has been here in Tampa every step of the way since taking over and has been undeniably accountable to media and fans alike throughout. Len Barrie, for the most part, has been in Western Canada.”, so I understand that you're on Koules’ side on this one.
My question: Do you think that Mr. Bettman's decision will directly seal Lecavalier's future with Tampa? And, if yes, are you still on Koules’ side?
I’m not really taking sides, Jonathan. I just want everything to work out well for the long-term sustainability and success of the franchise. I think that it will. I was simply pointing out that, to me, Koules’ accountability deserves some commendation. Barrie, on the other hand, hasn’t had to face near as much scrutiny in his first year as owner of the club.
Will this squabble directly affect Lecavalier’s status? Maybe. But keep in mind that the outcome of the meeting with Bettman was such that nothing really changed. Lawton will negotiate player transactions, on which Koules will have final say. For anything major, Barrie must also be consulted. I think any deal involving Lecavalier would certainly be considered “major” so, if Barrie strongly opposes, it won’t happen. All three men could potentially be swayed, of course.
As for my opinion on the whole ordeal. If they choose to move Lecavalier, I know what challenges that will bring. The package has to be overwhelming and the job of convincing the Lightning fans that what has been done is indeed in the franchise’s best long-term interest is a monumental task (of which, I want no part, personally!)
weaponant writes:
What's the word on Steve Downie? Has he gone for anger management or done anything so far since the season ended to better himself as both a person and a player? The kid has talent, and could be a top-six player, but doesn't seem to have the focus or the desire to do anything about his issues.
What would the final word be heading into the Lightning’s young guns camp?
I’ll let Steve answer this for you himself, to begin with. He graciously offered the following via text:
“The summer is going great. I’m spending half of my time in Minnesota working out with (Lightning strength and conditioning coaches) Chuck Lobe and Kevin Ziegler. When I’m not working out, I’m just spending time at home with my friends and family and golfing a lot with them. Other than that, I’m just relaxing, enjoying the summer and getting focused for the season.”
Personally, I concur with your opinion in terms of Downie as a top-six guy and a guy that fans really want to get behind. In his brief time in Tampa, through all of the fan correspondence I receive, I would say that Downie is probably number three behind Lecavalier and Steven Stamkos as players people ask about the most.
The intensity with which Steve plays the game is both what makes him the player he is and, to this point, what gets him into trouble from time to time. But, minor setbacks aside, I believe that he fully understands this at this point in his career and has taken positive steps toward keeping that intensity at the appropriate level.
The best thing that can happen to Downie is for him to make the club out of training camp and benefit from spending a full season learning under head coach Rick Tocchet. Downie has the “compete level” and grit that Tocchet is always referencing when asked what he wants his team to look like.
As for the upcoming “Young Guns” camp, I’d say the Lightning will probably look for Downie to take on a bit of a leadership role during that week as one of the camp’s elder statesmen, which would no doubt be good for his development as well.
Dave J. writes:
If for some strange reason the Islanders take Hedman instead of Tavares, (biiiig if) how would you feel if the Lightning took Duchene instead of Tavares? I ask because, the more I read about this kid, the more I like him. I get the impression that he's a much more well-rounded player (2-way with a good scoring touch) rather than the purely offensive juggernaut that Tavares is. I'm wondering if that might be a better fit for a team that already has the likes of Martin St. Louis, Stamkos, Lecavalier (assuming he is still here), Ryan Malone (whom I think offensively is just gonna get better) and Vinny Prospal (set to have his usual up year after having his usual down year).
Also, do you think we'll see more of Downie this year?
If anything, as I’ve said before, I see the Islanders taking Duchene over Tavares and not Hedman. Newsday’s Islanders beat writer Greg Logan went so far as to predict that the Islanders will make Duchene the number one choice and Logan is as close to that team as anyone (though I respectfully disagree, mostly because I don’t have the stones to do what Greg did, and still say Tavares is the pick).
Still, since you asked, if given the choice between Tavares and Duchene, most will tell you the Lightning will go with J.T. and then figure out to do from there. (Maybe Toronto goes nuts for Tavares after the draft, rather than before or during.) But your question was how I would feel if the Bolts went with Duchene, wasn’t it?
I’d be fine with that. Prospects don’t rise with a bullet the way Duchene did down the stretch unless there’s really something special there. Everyone I’ve spoken to has raved about the kid and, really, despite what a hoard of fans at the Nassau Coliseum might say or do if their pick is not Tavares, none of the Islanders, Lightning or Colorado Avalanche can make a bad pick in the top three.
Matt Duchene will turn out to be one hell of a player, it appears. The comparisons to the likes of Steve Yzerman and Joe Sakic (while unfair) speak volumes.
As for Downie (as you can see I have no segue skills whatsoever) you can probably infer from my answer to the previous question that I expect him to be with the Lightning from start to finish this year.
Question for you: You’re not a former Major League Baseball player, are you? ;)
Sherry B. writes:
Since Johan Harju is invited to the prospects camp, is there any chance the Lightning sign him and he plays in the NHL instead of the KHL?
No. Lawton said, as recently as yesterday, that Harju is committed to Dynamo Moscow for next season.
Also, keep in mind, the roster for the Young Guns camp that has been released is clearly marked “tentative”.
My friends at HockeyBay.com shared this picture with me:
To which, I say: You’ve done nothing but make me miss my favorite television show of all-time, The Sopranos, far more than I already did.
Thank you.
And fuhgettaboutit!
Nickole writes:
I know you're probably sick of all the Vinny questions but, as far as you know, is there any substance to the rumor that (agent) Kent Hughes has told Koules and/or Lawton that if the payroll is only going to be $40 million, Vinny wants out?
I can tell you that no outward threat has been made about Vinny “wanting out”. But I can also tell you that, if you think I’m sick of the Vinny questions, that pales in comparison to how the Lecavalier camp must feel as this has, literally, gone on forever now.
July 1st can’t come quickly enough for them and for most Lightning fans as well. One way or another, some resolution is sorely needed at long last.
Victor O. (my NHL09 online adversary from Spain) writes:
Hi JJ! Who do you think Tampa is going to pick with the 32nd overall pick?
Hi Vic! Pure speculation on my part but, if Red Deer Rebels forward Landon Ferraro (son of “Chicken Parm” himself, Ray Ferraro) falls to 32, that would be a great pick for Tampa Bay.
Other than that, I won’t throw any other names out there because I expect the Bolts to try and move that 32nd pick, along with something else, probably the 52nd and then some, to get back into the mid-to-late first round. Watch for that.
Peter M. writes:
I was just wondering what do you think the chances are that, if needed, Vinny Lecavalier will restructure his contract and maybe take a pay cut? I really hope we don't end up trading him. Vinny has been my favorite player since I was a kid. I started following hockey because of him. I can't even fathom what it would be like if he was gone, let alone to Montreal. Gross.
Gross. That’s funny, Peter.
Unfortunately, NHL players cannot restructure their contracts, as in other sports. If they could, one might think a guy as philanthropic as Lecavalier has proven to be might be an ideal candidate to do as much. On the other hand, he just signed that 11-year extension so, someone else might tell you he didn’t owe the club anything after his years of service and commitment to the team and the area.
Either way, it doesn’t really matter since, as I said, you can’t restructure a deal in the NHL.
Cookie G. writes:
Please tell me reports of an offer for Toronto’s Tomas Kaberle, believed to be a player and a first round pick, does not involve us!
Rest easy, Cookie. Reports have surfaced that the offer was from the Boston Bruins and it involved Phil Kessel and the #25 pick for Kaberle and Toronto’s #7.
As I believe I said some time, somewhere last night, there is no way the Lightning would move the #2 and a player for Kaberle. They might be interested but not at that price.
Further, I believe Kaberle can’t be moved until 7:00 PM tonight, for one reason or another, probably involving a contract clause of his own.
David S. writes:
Gotta tell you that the Lawton blog was, to date, my favorite Hockeybuzz blog ever! You could not have timed that blog any better but what made it sooooo good was the reaction from people that did not realize it was sarcasm (at it’s finest, I might add). Major props on the blog and your replies to the inane comments in response. Heck, I even posted a link to TSN hoping that some of the idiots would take the time to read it and put the pieces together.
Anyway, just wanted to give you Kudos for a great blog, keep up the good work and I was quite serious when I commented that you should consider moving over to the Flyers blog, you would look great in Black and Orange!
Thanks, David. I had fun with that.
And I sent it Lawton’s way too, which was met with a laugh (I presume - tough to tell via email, but I think he laughed) and a thank you.
(In case anyone missed my latest attempt at humor, inspired by Lawton’s recent email to his fellow GMs, have a look here.)
As for your offer to jump ship to Philly, I must politely decline, as I’d be no good to you or Flyer Nation from such a distance.
If ever I move, however …
Just kidding, Tampa Bay. I’m here for the long haul
That about does it for the draft day edition of JJ’s Mailbag. If I didn’t get to your question, it’s only because someone else asked something very similar. I hope my answers will suffice.
For updates throughout draft day, please follow me at Twitter. I have a feeling that will be the most efficient method for breaking news today. Of course, if anything major hits, I’ll post a quick update here as well.
Enjoy the draft!
JJ
jon.jordan@hockeybuzz.com
JJ on Facebook
JJ on Twitter
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