So the story from servalli here is guesswork. What point are you trying to make here?

Sakics said his priority was to sign oreilly. I don't see the trade as some sort of proof of a lie.
What point do you think you've proven here ?


Should I post 59 avs rumours that never took place as a retort now?


Also, maybe we're missing something here. Am I meant to post a thousand rumours from sites that never happened? Is that response needed?

You surely can't still be claiming that the two scenarios are anywhere even close ?
- Ihateallofu

My response, counselor, remains the same: GMs obfuscate and deny al the time—when they are actually working on and discussing things.

Of course, in the rumor game, you are going to report a lot more "conversations" than deals that actually happen. because . . . many more conversations happen that never turn into deals.

I reported, in this instance, a conversation. In light of who my source is, what his job is, who signs his paycheck, his accuracy in the past, our relationship, I tend to believe him.

Added to that, Michael Grosso's source's verification. Michael has a good track record.

I honestly don't know Steve Zipay. But there were some similarities in what he reported and what my source told me.

It IS an inexact science.

And I have been wrong on a few I have said ARE going to happen—I admit that.

So, while there is common ground you and I could find, it is becoming increasingly evident, that's not what you're in pursuit of.

Here is the problem though. YOU come off like you know how rumors work. And you're in position to slam everyone who works on them.

I can provide a list of about ten or more rumors I've broken that have panned out. That isn't by divine providence either. It is through cultivating good sources, weeding out the bad ones, double-checking, and being as honest and responsible as you can be while protecting sources.

I want to know where the rumors are you've broken that give you license to comment on how the process works, why it's all made up bs, etc?

Literally, are you "thehockeygod" under an alt. screen name, because this whole finger-pointing (and lets' facet, trolling) and not seeing your own contradiction seems eerily familiar.
- John Jaeckel

Well not really actually

Everything I said was in response to your blog. That defended your thoughts.
And your claims. Even in the face of more credible reporters conflicting thoughts and the very gm himself.

I never claimed anything personally.
What I did say what that it only takes a little critical thinking to debunk

I don't break rumours. Because it's nowhere near an exact science as you and so many insiders wanna claim.
You claim ten called rumours. Do you claim on the thousand you guessed wrong after the fact ?

I think it's convenient for you to call it trolling cause you're uncomfortable with the response to the blog YOU out out there

We're having a rational debate here

Theres no insults or swearing or whatever, even if you feel the intrinsic need to defend home team/writer

Please see yourself out of our hockey related debate. It's not a challenge. Just saying your presence here isn't required
- Ihateallofu

Rational? No, we're not. You'r throwing around narratives, assumptions, and accusations with no backing, then acting like you're the only one who is correct.

We're having a rational debate here

Theres no insults or swearing or whatever, even if you feel the intrinsic need to defend home team/writer

Please see yourself out of our hockey related debate. It's not a challenge. Just saying your presence here isn't required
- Ihateallofu

Yeah, that wasn't smart either.

Yeah, that wasn't smart either.
- John Jaeckel

Tell me about it.

Yeah, that wasn't smart either.
- John Jaeckel

Can't say he was the brightest bulb.

Rational? No, we're not. You'r throwing around narratives, assumptions, and accusations with no backing, then acting like you're the only one who is correct.
- JRoenick97

Alright, let's drop it and move on. Thanks.

Alright, let's drop it and move on. Thanks.
- EKB13

Done.

I believe it's time for you to show yourself out. Otherwise, I'll be happy to do it for you.
- EKB13

Welcome to the party Eli!

Yeah, that wasn't smart either.
- John Jaeckel

It's amazing how much fans over value their teams players. Malkin for AA and Seabrook? Not likely as he is 31 years old, carries a $6.9M cap hit and does not fit the Penguins system. Not to mention the post that recommended Crawford was part of a deal.

At the same time Panarin and Keith for Malkin is just as insane. I'm a fan of both teams and am unable to identify a trade scenario that would make sense. The Hawks do not have the assets (they'd be willing to trade) to make this work.

I have no doubt that there may have been a call to Rutherford but do not believe Malkin will be traded to the Hawks.

Welcome to the party Eli!
- ikeane

Thanks. I was supposed to run into the 'burbs and put a deadbeat on their feet this morning, but that one ended up paying last night.

I guess I'll be hanging out here today - since it is raining.

It's amazing how much fans over value their teams players. Malkin for AA and Seabrook? Not likely as he is 31 years old, carries a $6.9M cap hit and does not fit the Penguins system. Not to mention the post that recommended Crawford was part of a deal.

At the same time Panarin and Keith for Malkin is just as insane. I'm a fan of both teams and am unable to identify a trade scenario that would make sense. The Hawks do not have the assets (they'd be willing to trade) to make this work.

I have no doubt that there may have been a call to Rutherford but do not believe Malkin will be traded to the Hawks.
- Scoyurj26

I can see it if a third team like Buffalo were added. Hawks jettison crawford and get a piece like mccabe and a pick back that can be added to "help" the pens get under the cap. Still highly unlikely but rumors are just that. The inquiry could have been like this:

Bowman: hey its Stan. We wanted to know if Malkin is available

Rutheford: what are you offering?

Bowman: Anisimov, Kruger for starters

< click >

If the rumor isn't dumb, then Stan's interest is dumb. NOT because Malkin isn't a good player (when healthy, motivated and likes his surrounding city, pets and acquaintances and he's not dreaming of walking around Red Square), it's that the Hawks have already blown up their salary structure by overpaying several guys. They can't even sign Andrew Shaw, a key cog though a role player in the grand scheme of things.

Unless you are turning one of the big core, it just does not work. And I am sorry trading ANY ANY of the core guys out for Malkin is foolish. You can't move 4, 7 or 2 because the Defense already is questionable with them. That leaves 88 and 19. LMAO. Snort. I wouldn't trade either of those for Malkin if you ate half Geno's salary. Hossa? Is on the books for almost half of Geno. YES, Malkin is a huge upgrade over Anisimov, but for twice the salary he damn well should be.

Then what? Pitts isn't gonna eat salary. That's for sure. If they move Malkin it will be for some salary relief (something the Hawks can't give) and a couple elite prospects (also something the Hawks can't give). The ONLY possible trade combo with these two teams is "core" for "core" players and that would be asinine coming from Chicago because there is not one core guy I'd deal straight up for Malkin (core as in possible targets...2, 7, 4, 88, 19....81 probably isn't movable with the recapture plus he's paid spit compared to Malkin anway).

The ONLY two players on the Penguins I'd deal one of our top 6 guys for is Crosby or Letang. Not another single player on that team is as good as our top guys for what those players give the Hawks.

I agree, i said Panarin (and more) because even mentioning Kieth's name in a trade just sounds plain dumb.
- Mr.FunFacts

While including Malkin's name in a trade sounds smart?

I have no doubt that there may have been a call to Rutherford but do not believe Malkin will be traded to the Hawks.
- Scoyurj26

Yup.

What I don't get is the reasoning behind making that known to any source who will put it out there...because, that's what they do. Sources in NYC and Chicago got word of this? Interesting.

If the scenario is the Hawks called the Pens and the Pens said heck no, do the Hawks then make sure it gets to some possible leaks/sources so that Malkin might find out anyway, and if he hears Chicago might be interested, it possibly peaks his interest as the Penguins had no intention of letting him know about something they cut down because it had no legs or merited discussion with Malkin?

Is this basically the Hawks trying to circumvent the process of contacting other players in order to get a note to Malkin about their possible interest? "Hello agent, this is Geno. What about this Chicago thing I'm hearing?" If so, and I'm JR, I'm quite PO'd at the Hawks right now. Of course the Hawks will say they know nothing about it but..."Hey Geno, since we have you on the phone..."

While including Malkin's name in a trade sounds smart?
- jmatchett383

Not the same

Malkin wants out (supposedly). Keith does not
Malkin could end up in Russia at any moment. Keith will retire in the NHL
Malkin makes almost twice of what Keith makes
Malkin is his teams 2nd line center. Keith is arguably the greatest all around D-man in the world

Pittsburgh could trade Malkin and maybe not feel the effects so bad...get huge cap relief, a couple prospects and could easily fill a line 2 center role (maybe not as good, but the improvements elsewhere could make up for it)...

while trading Keith would probably signal the end of the Hawks run as there would be no way a reciprocal value could be had from moving Keith. The chances of "somewhat" replacing his value to the Hawks is remote.

It's just not the same.

Wake up numbnuts It is the truth not fiction 300 murders in Chi year to date
- holeinone

Yo holeinthe#@%*, he may have numbnuts but it appears you are numb between the ears. That will happen with large enough dosses of Faux News Whorehouse. If you choose real data, plenty available, you'll see that one has a much better chance of being shot dead as a percentage in Pittsburgh than in the world class cities of Chicago, New York or LA.

Been to the War Memorial in Johnstown, PA to see some hockey. Great arena and if you're afraid of being shot dead in Pittsburgh and can't make it to Chicago get yourself to Johnstown.

Enlighten yourself, hole.
http://chicago.cbslocal.c...or-every-city-in-america/

I can see it if a third team like Buffalo were added. Hawks jettison crawford and get a piece like mccabe and a pick back that can be added to "help" the pens get under the cap. Still highly unlikely but rumors are just that. The inquiry could have been like this:

Bowman: hey its Stan. We wanted to know if Malkin is available

Rutheford: what are you offering?

Bowman: Anisimov, Kruger for starters

< click >
- ikeane

I think you are spot on...at least it gives us something to talk about.

And to the poster who said Chicago was unsafe: there are few safer downtown areas to walk than Downtown Chicago. If you wander into the wrong area, at the wrong time, within any major city you are potentially putting yourself at risk. Chicago is one of the best US cities!

Not the same

Malkin wants out (supposedly). Keith does not
Malkin could end up in Russia at any moment. Keith will retire in the NHL
Malkin makes almost twice of what Keith makes
Malkin is his teams 2nd line center. Keith is arguably the greatest all around D-man in the world

Pittsburgh could trade Malkin and maybe not feel the effects so bad...get huge cap relief, a couple prospects and could easily fill a line 2 center role (maybe not as good, but the improvements elsewhere could make up for it)...

while trading Keith would probably signal the end of the Hawks run as there would be no way a reciprocal value could be had from moving Keith. The chances of "somewhat" replacing his value to the Hawks is remote.

It's just not the same.
- kwolf68

malkin does not want out lol
you are right about russia
keith makes 2 mil less and is 32! years old
malkin is 2nd line center cuz sid is the 1st line center... and there is noone bouncing him out of that place.

Ladies and gents...

Let's stick closer to topic, please. Or in the very least, let's move away from the worst cities for shootings conversation.

Thanks.

Yup.

What I don't get is the reasoning behind making that known to any source who will put it out there...because, that's what they do. Sources in NYC and Chicago got word of this? Interesting.

If the scenario is the Hawks called the Pens and the Pens said heck no, do the Hawks then make sure it gets to some possible leaks/sources so that Malkin might find out anyway, and if he hears Chicago might be interested, it possibly peaks his interest as the Penguins had no intention of letting him know about something they cut down because it had no legs or merited discussion with Malkin?

Is this basically the Hawks trying to circumvent the process of contacting other players in order to get a note to Malkin about their possible interest? "Hello agent, this is Geno. What about this Chicago thing I'm hearing?" If so, and I'm JR, I'm quite PO'd at the Hawks right now. Of course the Hawks will say they know nothing about it is but "Hey Geno, since we have you on the phone..."
- NJPensfan

IMO and as been noted here by others-- simple math and the cap tell the story that it is highly doubtful the Hawks are trying to acquire Malkin--- Hawks have enough issues to contend with than Malkin--

If I recall there was another team mentioned in the initial rumor-- that he would waive to Chicago AND St Louis--

To me its all a non starter-- unless Rutherford is trying to play off Chicago against St Louis-- and adding leverage to his process--

Giant smokescreen that benefits those actually making deals and distracts everyone--

BUT who can say that they didn't have a conversation among other things-- isn't that what has been reported-- kicking the tires--

JJ, I have read your contributions here for a long time....and for the most part you have been an excellent read.

Please help me with this...the Malkin to everywhere rumor hits at seasons end every year (usually it's to LA). And every year nothing. Here, as a Penguin fan, is to hoping this is more of the same.

Tagged to this yearly rumor is that Geno has a desire to be "The Man" and that is the largest reason to leave. He has always said Pittsburgh reminds him of home. The Org. is good to him. It is obvious the fans love him.

The question...How does Chicago fit any of that?

With Kane and Toews there he would be less "The Man" than in Pittsburgh.

Besides...(and I'm asking you to be the Pens GM here)... What's fiar return for Geno?

Thanks for reading.

Yup.

What I don't get is the reasoning behind making that known to any source who will put it out there...because, that's what they do. Sources in NYC and Chicago got word of this? Interesting.

If the scenario is the Hawks called the Pens and the Pens said heck no, do the Hawks then make sure it gets to some possible leaks/sources so that Malkin might find out anyway, and if he hears Chicago might be interested, it possibly peaks his interest as the Penguins had no intention of letting him know about something they cut down because it had no legs or merited discussion with Malkin?

Is this basically the Hawks trying to circumvent the process of contacting other players in order to get a note to Malkin about their possible interest? "Hello agent, this is Geno. What about this Chicago thing I'm hearing?" If so, and I'm JR, I'm quite PO'd at the Hawks right now. Of course the Hawks will say they know nothing about it is but "Hey Geno, since we have you on the phone..."
- NJPensfan

Now this has gone into player/trade tampering? For whatever reason this info got out. Happens all the time in pro sports. Have no doubt that that other teams would be interested in 71. Who cares who called who or if that was even the case. The season is over and teams can talk. Why do fans get the dander up if a star player wants to leave? Malkin can decide if he wants out. If Kane came out tomorrw and said Im done. I want to go elsewhere. Ok...

If the rumor isn't dumb, then Stan's interest is dumb. NOT because Malkin isn't a good player (when healthy, motivated and likes his surrounding city, pets and acquaintances and he's not dreaming of walking around Red Square), it's that the Hawks have already blown up their salary structure by overpaying several guys. They can't even sign Andrew Shaw, a key cog though a role player in the grand scheme of things.
- kwolf68

The ONLY two players on the Penguins I'd deal one of our top 6 guys for is Crosby or Letang. Not another single player on that team is as good as our top guys for what those players give the Hawks.

Agree with this-- the whole thing is less than plausible-- but it does stir the pot--