The last blog was a lot of fun to write, sharing EXACTLY what was on my mind was a lot of fun, and I plan to write some more this summer on various topics like - Why Sean Avery is perfect for the NHL and entertaining as hell.

But I'll spread them out evenly through the summer to cover the dead times.

Also I would like any Phoenix fans on Hockeybuzz, I know there is a few of you, to send me their opinion and thoughts on the issue, as myself and I am sure many others would like to hear your side of this whole situation.

On to things Sens related
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According Andy Strickland, talks have resumed between Neil and Ottawa, and are apparently going very well.

This is basically the opposite of what I've heard, however I haven't received any concrete updates on Neil in a couple weeks, so it's very possible Andy has received some info from Neils camp or somewhere else with a better insight on the contract talks.

Personally I want to see Neil walk, in favor of new blood, but there is a large group of Neil followers in Ottawa. So resigning Neil could be a matter of swaying public favor, which Murray will need if he does end up trading Spezza.
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Speaking of Spezza!!!!

Nothing new has happened on his potential trade.

L.A. still considers him a plan B.
Edmonton still has a man crush on him.
Minnesota has faded from the Spezza trade market.
Atlanta is still considering him to play with Kovie, but will likely only trade for him AFTER Kovie agrees in principle to an extension.
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It's been reported on other sites, that Jason Smith may be retiring and possibly taking on a position with-in the Ottawa organization, similar to Luc Richardson.

This would be great for Ottawa, as it would free up roughly 2.6 million in cap-space for them, while added a solid veteran to work with their youth.

Word is Jason Smith wasn't overly-pleased with his performance last season and the rehab from his season-ending injury has really made him question whether he has it in him to keep playing.

There is no timetable for him to decide, as Murray sounds willing to wait it out.
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I've recieved a few e-mails from some of you asking about Erik Condra's status.

I can assure all of you Condra WILL be signed before the mid-august deadline.

It's just a matter of hammering out the numbers of his contract.

Murray has been spending a lot of his time lately with his scouting staff, in preparation for the draft as well as deciding who will be playing where next season. I'd expect to see a number of Sens prospects getting calls and/or contracts over the next 2-3 weeks leading up to and shortly after the draft. (Not that it is really much of a surprise to anyone)

The Sens have been making calls about obtaining a late 1st rounder or early 2nd round pick for the draft, as the scouting staff has named 2 players with-in the 25th-35th pick range that they feel Ottawa should focus on obtaining.

So don't be surprised to see the Sens shop Kelly around for that pick.
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Patrick Weircioch has been invited to the U20 National Camp (Canada obviously), a strong showing here will go a long way towards Murray bringing him on next season.
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The latest word on Comrie and his contract talks, are that he will hit the UFA market.

They have apparently not received any word from Murray in regards to what Murray is willing to spend (if any) on Comrie.

It'll be a shame to see Comrie walk away again, but I will Murray the benefit of doubt for now, that he has something better planned.
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So Montreal has signed Ottawa and Florida's scraps......eh?

The only person in Montreal that should be happy is Carey Price.

The always defense-first coaching style of Jacques Martin will benefit Price immensely.

Other than that there isn't much to look forward to, for Montreal Fans.

Martin has a long list of accomplishments pre-lockout as a head coach...........but post-lockout?

See the Florida Panthers for your answers..........

For a historic franchise on the verge of a MAJOR shake-up, the selection of Martin as the head coach is baffling, it really is.

Martin brought a talented Ottawa squad to a president trophy, but had zero success in the playoffs. He also managed to keep an under-talented Panthers team relatively competitive.

If I was Gainey and Montreal, I would have second guessed my choice the second Florida was so receptive to see Martin leave......

Well to each their own. Good luck with Martin, Montreal, but I won't be expecting big things out of him.

Who knows maybe Renney will come back to bite Ottawa in the ass like Wade Redd......err I mean Patrick Eav....... eer Radek Bonk........hmmmm OH! Like Chara and Corvo have!

............Gainey should of got Renney when he had the chance.
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Sadly that's it, that's all for today........

Hopefully after Detroit wins the Cup again Ottawa will really get moving.

Mark Christopher
M_Christopher

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