Judge expands bidding for Coyotes to any buyer

This is going to get really ugly. The NHL owners don't want Balsillie to have an NHL team. This is going to test the league office and it will be interesting to see how this turns out. I still think it is an uphill battle for Balsillie because I believe the NHL can still ultimately decide who they want to own the Coyottes.

PHOENIX (AP) - A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge has expanded bidding for the Phoenix Coyotes to include potential buyers who would move the team.

Judge Redfield T. Baum ruled Wednesday that all bids, those to keep the team in Arizona or to move it elsewhere, would be accepted for the Sept. 10 auction.
He specifically said the $212.5 million offer from Canadian billionaire Jim Balsillie would be considered. That sets up another showdown between Balsillie and the NHL, because the league's board of governors has unanimously rejected him as an owner.

Balsillie's bid is contingent on moving the team to Hamilton, Ontario.

Balsillie spokesman Bill Walker praised the judge's for creating a "fair and transparent" sales process.

Team Massachusetts

Our friend Kyle from the Illegal Curve has team Mass up.

As part of our ongoing project of choosing Olympic teams based on states and provinces, I volunteered to take Team Mass., thinking it would be pretty easy to find a solid squad. While I was able to round off the defensive corps pretty quickly, the forwards took some work, with a search of the American League made necessary by the lack of NHL calibre forwards hailing from the state.

You can see the following teams:Team Quebec, Team Maritimes, Team Ontario, Team Saskatchewan, Team Michigan, Team Manitoba, Team Alberta, Team British Columbia , Team Minnesota.

Add team New York.

David from the Illegalcurve.com posted team New York today. As you can see from the other teams posted there are some impressive players from the teams from Michigan, Minnesota and New York. It's a matter of fact that Michigan is loaded.

Team New York is an interesting mix. The 27th largest state in the union based on total geography, it ranks as the third in total population. As a result one would expect that New York state would be well represented in the NHL. Turns out that it currently ranks third, behind Michigan and Minnesota.

Very talented group of forwards without alot of pop from the back end. The goalie contingent looks like a future Red Wings goalie camp. To complete our trio we had to coax a goalie out of recent retirement to have a full compliment of tenders.

You can see the following teams: Team Quebec, Team Maritimes, Team Ontario, Team Saskatchewan, Team Michigan, Team Manitoba, Team Alberta, Team British Columbia , Team Minnesota, team New York.

Avery on Donald Brashear.

Interesting interview with Sean "sloppy seconds" Avery. I still wonder how some of his Rangers team mates will feel about having Donald Brashear in locker room after he took out their team mates Blair Betts with a cheap shot last spring during the Stanley Cup playoffs.

On Donald Brashear: “I know he’s a scary dude…I’ve never fought him; I’ve never been dumb enough to do that… It’s always good to have a presence physically on the team, whether it’s a guy on the back or a guy upfront, I think it’s something that’s important, and as much as people say it’s not a part of the game, it is. It was certainly bittersweet to see Colton (Orr) go, I’m happy that he got a nice contract and he definitely deserves it. But it’s a new season and Brash will definitely be welcome in this dressing room and be part of our team for sure.” When reminded that Brashear---a former Flyer---had received tips from Joe Frazier during the lockout, he said: “I don’t know if Joe Frazier has enough left in the tank, I know Brash does, that’s all I’m worried about [Newsday.com]

“

Hey Olympians don't get hurt.

I saw this posted by Alan Walsh on Twitter last night and I couldn't believe it when I first read it. The NHL is stopping its season to play the Olympics; why in the hell would they do this? The NHLPA doesn't want its players skating in the camps because there isn't adequate insurance coverage for their elephantine contracts. Personally, I think there would be more injuries from the compacted season then there is from the Olympic games.

I don’t know if there is any way around this; the countries participating in the Olympics are going to need to have some kind of an evaluation camp so they can decided which players are going to be the best fits for their countries’ Olympic team. This is just shameful. Maybe the Olympics needs to go back to having amateurs play in the Olympic Games.

So the NHLPA has told players not to participate in any on-ice drills at the upcoming orientation camps for the Olympics. Apparently the NHL has now also sent out a memo that dissuades player involvement as well, as the memo apparently states that the league will not honour NHL contracts for a player injured at a summer camp.

Call me crazy, but wasn't it the NHL and the NHLPA that agreed to participate in the Olympics? [Shaune Vetter, Hockey Buzz]

Top Ten USA Hockey Players.

NHL.COM has the top ten ranked American players in the NHL. Nice to see the ex-college hockey players getting recognized. As an alum of UND it's nice to see Zach Parise ranked number one.

1. Zach Parise, F, New Jersey (UND)-- Parise was a big reason the Devils won the Atlantic Division in 2008-09. He ranked third in the League in goals (45), fifth in points (94), tied for first in overtime goals (3) and tied for seventh in game-winning goals (8) while setting a team record for shots in a season (364). The 2009 All-Star also is regarded as one of the NHL's finest defensive forwards, accruing 65 hits, 34 takeaways and a career-best plus-30 rating.
2. Tim Thomas, G, Boston (UVM)
3. Patrick Kane, F, Chicago (OHL)
4. Ryan Miller, G, Buffalo (MSU)
5. Brian Rafalski, D, Detroit (UW)
6. Mike Komisarek, D, Toronto (Mich)
7. Jamie Langenbrunner, F, New Jersey
8. Phil Kessel, F, Boston (UMN)
9. Dustin Brown, F, Los Angeles (OHL)
10. Paul Stastny, F, Colorado (DU)-- Stastny was born in Quebec has opted to play for the United States in international competitions.

Team Minnesota.

Here is the team that Kyle asked me to submit to the illegal curve.
You can see the following teams: Team Quebec, Team Maritimes, Team Ontario, Team Saskatchewan, Team Michigan, Team Manitoba, Team Alberta, Team British Columbia .

As supplied by Goon of Goon’s World:

Coming as no big surprise, Team Minnesota looks like the class of the south of the border entries. A potent forward group and young, mobile defensive corps make the 10000 Lakers a team to beat. The Achilles Heel seems to be their goaltending, which, while talented, is a little shy on experience.

Coach: Dean Blais- While he lacks professional experience, Blais is a keen motivator who knows how to handle this group, mainly former collegians. He won’t take any shit and will get the most out of any underachievers.

Goalie:

1. Alex Stalock

2. Adam Berkhoel

3. John Curry

Defense:

1. Keith Ballard

2. Tom Gilbert

3. Andy Albers

4. Erik Johnson

5. Paul Martin

6. Alex Goligoski

7. Mark Stuart

Forwards:

1. Kyle Okposo

2. David Backes

3. TJ Oshie

4. Zach Parise

5. Dustin Byfuglien

6. Jamie Langenbrunner

7. Blake Wheeler

8. Matt Cullen

9. Jason Blake

10. Ryan Carter

11. Brandon Bochenski

12. Peter Mueller

13. Toby Petersen

The Minnesotans boast a pretty impressive back end. All young, mobile guys, there will be no problem with puck movement or with the power play. While none are all-stars, as a group they represent a formidable top 6. In an quick tournament such as the fictitious North America Cup, they can really hurt you.

I see them paired as follows:

Johnson-Gilbert

Ballard-Martin

Goligoski-Stuart

I have Andrew Albers as my extra.

Up front, a wealth of firepower awaits anyone standing in the way of the Maroon and Gold (assuming?). The top 6 all have elite level talent and can all put the puck in the net. Additionally, there is enough of a veteran presence to calm the ship should they fall behind to a team. While they might lack in overall grit, players such as Langenbrunner and Byfuglien are no strangers to the corners and Mark Parrish is at home at the top of the crease. I see the lines like this:

Okposo-Oshie-Parise

Wheeler-Cullen-Backes

Byfuglien-Langenbrunner-Blake

Carter-Mueller-Bochenski

Toby Petersen is my extra guy.

Robbie Bina game worn jersey.

Sioux fans you can bid on a Robbie Bina Stockton Thunder game worn Jersey

Single-game tickets on sale Sept. 12 for hockey

I have had a bunch of people ask me about when single game tickets go on sale for Fighting Sioux hockey. It's official Single game tickets go for Fighting Sioux Sports go on sale September 12, 2009. Per a tweet from UNDathletics, "the Single-game tix on sale Sept. 12 for FB, M/W hockey, M/W basketball and volleyball."

Here is the official press release for the ticket sales linked below. Funny, this also shoots some holes in a certain bloggers theory on what a college hockey team makes for a hockey game as far as ticket prices go. The only tickets that are 15.00 are youths ages 2-12. We rounded the figure off to 25.00 dollars a ticket x 8,500 per game(8,500 X 25.00 x 20 = 4,250,000). You can see that UND and REA makes a lot of money from Fighting Sioux hockey and this isn't even counting concessions and other stuff that is sold in the Sioux shop. I wouldn't be surprised if it's another million or so based on suite sales.

GRAND FORKS, N.D.—University of North Dakota Director of Athletics Brian Faison announced today that single-game tickets for Fighting Sioux football, men’s and women’s hockey, men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball will go on sale on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.
Men’s hockey
Manitoba, Merrimack, USA World Juniors, Mankato & Michigan Tech Adult $25.
Youth (2-12)$15.
Student $7 – increases to $9 after the one month threshold
Minnesota $45.
Wisconsin and Denver $40.
St. Cloud State, Minnesota-Duluth $30.
Subway Holiday Classic
4 game ticket packages
Adult - $69
Youth - $49
Students - $20

Single Session (2 games on same day)
Adult - $40
Youth - $20
Students - $10

Tickets for all UND home events can be purchased at the UND Box Office at Ralph Engelstad Arena, the Alerus Center, all Ticketmaster outlets and at www.TicketMaster.com.

Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament Pictures.

These are some of the pictures that were sent to me in email from Coach Osh, I also taken a few of the pictures as well.

ESPNU comes to MIDCO.

There is some really good news for college hockey and sports fans that have Midcontinent communications as their cable provider. The most unavailable channel on the television dial ESPNU is now part of the Midcontinet Communications line up and is on channel 320 in the Greater Grand Forks, ND area.

During the NCAA division one hockey regional(s) You will not have to have travel to one of the local bars in town to be able to watch a important NCAA hockey games. This move is long over due and should have happened a long time ago, I have called hundreds of times to complain about not recieving this channel. I am sure that all of those calls that fans made during the college hockey season might have finally paid off.

NFL Network/HD, ESPNU, NHL Network Added to Preferred Cable Lineup in August

Sports heaven is upon us! The NFL Network/HD, NHL Network, and ESPNU will be added to Preferred Cable in a many systems on August 1. The Sioux Falls area will receive ESPNU and NFL HD on August 25. Contact us for more information.

Oshie article.

In today's Grand Forks Herald, Fighting Sioux beat writer Brad Elliott Schlossman has a nice article on former Sioux hockey player T.J. Oshie if you remember last year the Oshie pummeled Rick Nash twice in two games. [Pummel number two]

Oshie’s popularity shot up in the second half of the season after a sequence of highlight-reel plays that included devastating hits on star players of opposing teams.

On March 24, Los Angeles Kings captain Dustin Brown — known as a tough forward — picked up the puck near the boards and turned around to face the Blues goal. As he turned, Oshie closed in and delivered a shoulder check, knocking Brown off of his skates to a stand-ing ovation by the St. Louis crowd.

On March 26, Oshie picked up a puck in the neutral zone, skated around a Vancouver Ca-nucks defenseman, deked out another, got All-Star goalie Roberto Luongo to commit early and he shelved it. NHL.com named it the goal of the year.

On March 28, Columbus Blue Jackets captain Rick Nash was standing in the corner with the puck, looking to make a centering pass. Right after the 6-foot-4, 218-pound Nash released the puck, Oshie came in and delivered a devastating hit that knocked Nash off of his skates.

The next night, Columbus and St. Louis played again, and Nash was looking to even the score. Oshie carried the puck behind the net, looking to start a rush the other way. Nash made a run at Oshie, but the Blue Jackets captain once again got knocked off of his skates with a huge hit.

After that, Blues fans started campaigning to have Oshie elected mayor. In nearby O’Fallon, Mo., a fan took a cell phone picture of his vote for Oshie on the mayor ballot, anger-ing city officials because it is illegal to take pictures of a ballot.

At home games, “You got Oshied,” signs popped up frequently, and t-shirts were made with the most popular definition of the newly created verb: To destroy with reckless abandon.

Moron(s) of the Week

From the comments section of the article we also have our candidates for Moron/douche bag of the Week. Anyone want to guess what team they probably cheer for? It’s like give it a rest already. Please put aside your pettiness. The Oshie Sports celebrity golf tournament was a blast and all of the Celebrities acted with respect and were very gracious and fun to interact with.

Joel P.
08/02/2009 2:13 AM

I hear at the "celebrity" golf tournament, all of the port-a-potty's were converted to elevators for all the players to use the bathroom in.
-----------------------
scott e.
08/02/2009 1:07 AM

You should have seen him campaigning in the local bars this weekend, begging for waitresses to sign his shirt and for them to give him their phone numbers. Seems like there's nothing better for him to do. I can understand having a blast in the offseason, going out in a community where you were once respected (until you started urinating all over it) waiting for people to approach you, and "ask" for your autograph, not demanding it, is something to be appreciated. show some class now that you're representing a professional organization. oh, and be sure to make sure daddy's credit cards are paid in full. hope when you go back to st. louis you can play on the ice as well as you think you can play the barmaids

Celebrity hockey game video featured ex-Fighting Sioux.

Check out this video there are a lot of ex-Fighting Sioux hockey players in this video; you have Jonathan Toews, Zach Parise, Jason Blake, Drew Stafford. This would have be a fun game to go to and watch, an incredible amount of talent participated in this game.

The Heatley Saga marches on.

Former Wisconsin Badger Dany Heatley will not be going to the Oilers and the funniest quote I have seen on this matter comes from Greg Wyshynski of Puck Daddy, "Whatever the case, the Oilers formally announced today that they're tired of being the fat girl at the dance ("More To Love" made the world safe again for that analogy) and are moving on from the Heatley Saga." That is some funny stuff right there, unless you're the general manager of the Edmonton Oilers.

Steve Tambellini held a "Friday before the long weekend" press conference to talk about the soap opera that has become the Dany Heatley trade.

Tambellini said Ottawa has been informed that the Oilers are no longer involved in any trade participation for Heatley. He stated their #1 priority was goaltending and their #1 name was Nikolai Khabibulin. They are moving on.

Jim Matheson asked the "Heatley holding you hostage" question, and Tambellini said (apparently they were using the Pizza Hut order center phones) it was never a problem with regard to the player. He did say that they told Ottawa after last weekend about the opt out.[Lowetide]

Here is the audio of the Dan Tencer interview of Oilers GM Steve Tambellini [click for the interview] Interesting stuff here. Tencer asks some good tough questions.

Fargo Force roster for the 2009-2010 season.

This came in my messages from the Fargo Force Face Book Page. Nice to see a couple of North Dakota boys on the team.
GOALTENDERS
Cody Campbell, Colorado Springs, Colo.
Zane Gothberg, Thief River Falls, Minn. (North Dakota)

DEFENSEMEN
Dan Rychalet, Calgary, Alberta
Tom McCarthy, Maple Grove, Minn.
Grant Scott, Sewickley, Penn.
Eamonn McDermott, Shaker Heights, Ohio (Colorado College)
Nate Schmidt, St. Cloud, Minn. (Minnesota)
Blake Doerring, Plymouth, Minn. (Vermont)
Kodie Curran, Calgary, Alberta
Nick Romanick, Bismarck, N.D.

FORWARDS
Chris Stafne, Duluth, Minn (Minnesota-Duluth)
Mark Zengerle, Rochester, N.Y. (Wisconsin)
Garrett Allen, Delafield, Wis.
Duncan McKellar, Phoenix, Ariz. (Bemidji State)
Joey Benik, St. Francis, Minn (St. Cloud State)
Johnnie Searfoss, Colleyville, Texas (Maine)
Nick Oliver, Wannaska, Minn. (St. Cloud State)
Corey Leivermann, Mankato, Minn. (MSU-Mankato)
Gavin Hartzog, Pewaukee, Wis. (Wisconsin)
Chase Grant, Oklahoma City, Okla.
Nate Condon, Wausau, Wis. (Minnesota)
Chad Demers, Grafton, N.D.
Joey Rehkamp, Plymouth, Minn (Air Force)
Matt Leitner, Los Alamitos, Calif. (MSU-Mankato)
Colten St. Clair, Gilbert, Ariz. (Colorado College)

No Progress Between Kessel and Bruins

Sounds like more of the same, nothing new to report and the Bruins are no closer to a deal with their RFA Phil Kessel. I think the Bruins should move on the deal that sends Marco Sturm to the Islanders, that could probably land the Bruins a prospect or a draft choice, which could free up some cap space to get Kessel signed to a deal.

I spoke to Phil Kessel’s agent, Wade Arnott, on the ride up Thursday night and got the latest on Kessel and his contract negotiations with the Bruins.

“Nothing really new to update,” Arnott said. “I wish I had some new news for you, but there’s really nothing major to report.”

Arnott said that he and Kessel have had some discussions with Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli recently, but nothing serious. Both sides have made it clear that they would like to reach an agreement, but unfortunately, that has been about the only common ground found so far.

“We’ve had a few more discussions recently," Arnett added, "but are we any closer to an agreement? I’d have to say no at this point.”

Interestingly, unlike many, Arnott said that neither he nor Kessel believed the Aaron Ward trade was made as a precursor to re-signing Kessel.

“No not at all,” Arnott said.

So that is where the two parties stand. There were no reports of offer sheets, and while there have been recent rumors of the Islanders and Sharks inquiring about a Kessel trade and the Islanders possibly looking at Marco Sturm, follow-ups have turned up nothing substantial.

As of now, it appears both sides would like to make this work, but the chance is still very real that this might trickle into camp. With Kessel reportedly not due back from shoulder surgery until late November or December, a holdout is very possible. From the Bruins’ stance, Kessel is already out for almost two months into the season, so a holdout during that period would be rendered meaningless on the ice.

As for any moves by the Bruins, all is quiet. As Chiarelli promised last week, “I’m done for a while.” [NESN]

Thursday Morning Linkorama.

*Former Fighting Sioux goalie Jean-Philippe Lamoureux has a new contract with the Buffalo Sabres organization. "Last season, he set the ECHL’s record for shutouts in a season and also led the league in wins."

*Speaking of goalies; Minnesota Wild Goalie Josh Harding has a new deal with the Minnesota Wild. So one could say that the Wild's stable is full of goalies, the Wild have 1.) former DU Pioneer Wade Dubielewicz, 2.) Josh Harding and 3.) all world goalie Niklas Backstrom as their goalies, you would have to think that Harding is going to be traded for an offensive player. How do you keep all three happy, when Backstrom is going to be the man between the pipes.

*Per the Grand Forks Herald, The voice of Sioux hockey won’t change either, as Tim Hennessy again will call all UND games. Hennessy also is expected to be the host of the coaches show. This is good news for Sioux fans.

*Today is the Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament hopefully the weather will co-operate and not rain on us. I have to say that the weather this summer has been less than stellar. Also, Brett Bergman from St Louis Simply Put is also playing in this tourney.

*The Fighting Sioux have picked up a nice goalie recruit in Zane Gothberg from Thief River Falls Minnesota. [Western College Hockey]

*The Phil Kessel Saga continues as he is still without a contract. [Puck Daddy]

*Per Quickfacts Lord Stanley's Cup is coming to Grand Rapids, MN in August. Pittsburgh Penguin Alex Goligoski who turned 24 today, will have the Stanley Cup in his hometown of Grand Rapids Minnesota on August 19th.

2009 "Meet the Celebrities" Event.

Here are a few pictures from the "Meet the Celebrities" for the Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tourney. Please keep in mind I am not a photographer which was confirmed by my wife this past weekend. Pictured at the table was Tim Oshie, Lamoureux, Nick Fuhrer, Brad Miller, Aaron Walski, Andrew Kowzek, Brad Miller, T.J. Oshie and Jean Philippe Lamoureux.

Rick Wilson named associate coach of the TB Lightning.

Former UND assistant coach Rick Wilson has a new job. You can bet that the Lightning will be better defensively.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract with Rick Wilson, naming him associate coach today, Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Lawton announced. He will be looked upon to coach and groom the team’s defensive corps.

Wilson, a native of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, has spent the previous 16 seasons with the Dallas Stars, winning the Stanley Cup in 1999 working along side head coach Ken Hitchcock. During his tenure with the Stars, Wilson helped lead the team to seven division titles, two Western Conference championships and two President’s Trophies. He had most recently served as associate coach for the previous six seasons, focusing on the team’s defense and penalty kill. Under Wilson’s guidance the Stars finished in the top three for fewest goals against in the NHL during the 2007-08, 2006-07, 2003-04 and 2002-03 seasons.
------------------snip------------------
Wilson began his coaching career as an assistant at his alma mater, the University of North Dakota, where the Fighting Sioux won the 1980 NCAA Division I Championship and two WCHA crowns during his two years there. While he was a student he played hockey and football, earning his degree in education. [NHL.com]

UND gains another honor (sort of)

This came out when I was on my family vacation. I can just imagine the comments; 'what else is there to do in North Dakota.' I can give you a list of about 10 other things to do. Our WCHA buddies from Wisconsin also had higher honors they are in the top twenty.

The nation's top party schools, according to Princeton Review's 2009 survey of 122,000 students.
1. Penn State University, State College, Pa.
2. University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla.
3. University of Mississippi, Oxford, Miss.
4. University of Georgia, Athens, Ga.
5. Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
6. West Virginia University, Morgantown, W.Va.
7. University of Texas, Austin, Texas
8. University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis.
9. Florida State University, Tallahassee, Fla.
10. University of California-Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, Calif.
11. University of Colorado, Boulder, Colo.
12. University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
13. Union College, Schenectady, N.Y.
14. Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind.
15. DePauw University, Greencastle, Ind.
16. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn.
17. Sewanee: The University of the South, Sewanee, Tenn.
18. University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, N.D.
19. Tulane University, New Orleans, La.
20. Arizona State University, Tempe, Ariz. [Princeton Review]

Pictures of the BREC.

Here are the latest pictures of the Bemidji Regional Events Center. I was in Bemidji on vacation and finally got to see the site of the BREC, I was there the week before and forgot to get pictures. The BREC will be on the south end of Lake Bemidji just to the east of the Hampton INN. That will be an awesome place for an events center. My father is the one posing in the pictures.

Blais has out in his contract.

I found this to be interesting, but it makes sense. That being said I don't think Gophers or Mavericks fans need to worry just yet.

Dean Blais, who was recently named the new head hockey coach at Nebraska-Omaha, has an out in his contract that allows him to apply for the Gophers job if it becomes available. [Bayside Puck Chatter] [Husker Mike]

Dubay sentenced to workhouse.

It would appear that Jeff Dubay has hit rock bottom. Now, I hope Jeff can get his act together, beat this thing and move on with his life. I think one thing we all might want to consider is human beings make mistakes and have issues and I hope Jeff works his way through this mess and turns his life around.

Former KFAN-AM radio personality Jeffery Dubay was taken into custody this morning on a drug possession conviction from October after he failed to complete two substance abuse programs issued by the court.

Ramsey County District Judge Joanne Smith ordered Dubay, 41, of Plymouth, serve a sentence of 180 days in the county workhouse with credit for 18 days served and a stayed sentence of up to five years probation.

Dubay also must complete a chemical dependency program and recommended aftercare. He must abstain from mood-altering substances, submit to random drug and alcohol tests, and remain law abiding.

Dubay was taken into custody immediately after his sentencing.

"I think it's appropriate at this time that Mr. Dubay understand the consequences of his actions," Smith said.

The drug charge came from an Oct. 15 traffic stop in Maplewood. An officer saw Dubay throw what looked like a yellow napkin out the window, according to a criminal complaint. The officer retrieved the item and found a small plastic bag containing a substance that tested positive as cocaine. It weighed 0.45 grams, or about 0.016 ounces.

Dubay later said he was in Maplewood to pay a drug debt of $200, the complaint stated. [Pioneer Press]

Forney not coming back to UND.

We get news today that former Fighting Sioux forward Michael Forney will not be returning to UND but instead giving up his final two years of eligibility to play with the AHL team the Chicago Wolves. There was a chance that he might return to UND for his Junior season. While at UND Forney never really got going offensively and suffered a couple of injuries that held him out of the line up.

Michael Forney wrestled with the decision for three months.

Should he sign with the Atlanta Thrashers or return to UND, where he spent two injury-plagued years before rediscovering his game in the United States Hockey League?

The answer came on Monday morning.

Forney signed a multiyear, two-way contract with the Thrashers, giving up his final two years of college eligibility.

The Thief River Falls native is expected to start his pro career with the American Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves this fall, possibly alongside former UND teammates Rylan Kaip and Andrew Kozek. [Grand Forks Herald]

Smaby avoids arbitration.

Former Fighting Sioux defenseman Matt Smaby has signed a two year contract and has also avoided his arbitration hearing. In looking at the arbitration list it appears that only one RFA has gone to their hearing.

The Tampa Bay Lightning avoided arbitration with defenseman Matt Smaby today, signing him to a two-year contract, Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Lawton announced.

"We are pleased to announce this agreement with Matt today," said Lawton upon making the announcement. "He is big, physical and really skates well for a man that stands 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds. He played well for us last season and I expect his personal development to continue in 2009-10."

Smaby, 6-foot-5, 240 pounds, has played in 57 career NHL games, all with Tampa Bay. He has recorded four assists and averaged 17:22 in ice time during his career. Smaby made his NHL debut last season after being recalled on March 17, 2008. He has played in 149 AHL games with the Norfolk Admirals and Springfield Falcons, recording five goals and 28 points with 139 penalty minutes.

A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Smaby played in a career-high 43 games with the Lightning last season, recording a career-best four assists and 50 penalty minutes. His 19:05 average ice time was also the highest of his career and was fourth among NHL rookie defensemen with 20 or more games played. Smaby ranked fourth on the Lightning in hits with 122 and blocked hots with 68. He was recalled to Tampa Bay on December 27 and finished the season with the Lightning despite suffering a broken bone in his foot. Smaby recorded his first NHL point with an assist December 27 against Florida. [NHL.COM]

Boston Bruins updated salary breakdown

With the signing of defenseman Derek Morris it would appear that the Bruins are going to have to move someone to make room for RFA Phil Kessel. My best bet would be Patrice Bergeron or more likely Chuck Kobasew.

Forwards

Marc Savard, $5 million
Patrice Bergeron, $4.75 million
Michael Ryder, $4 million
David Krejci, $3.75 million
Marco Sturm, $3.5 million
Chuck Kobasew, $2,333,333 million
Glen Murray, $1,383,333 million (buyout)
Mark Recchi, $1 million
Blake Wheeler, $875,000
Milan Lucic, $850,000
Steve Begin, $850,000
Byron Bitz, $687,500
Peter Schaefer, $566,667 (buyout)
Shawn Thornton, $516,667
Patrick Eaves, $258,333 (buyout)

* Phil Kessel is a restricted free agent.

Defensemen

Zdeno Chara, $7.5 million
Dennis Wideman, $3.875 million
Derek Morris, $3.3 million
Matt Hunwick, $1.45 million
Andrew Ference, $1.4 million
Mark Stuart, $1.3 million
Johnny Boychuk, $500,000

Goalies

Tim Thomas, $5 million
Tuukka Rask, $850,000

Current cap hit: $55,495,833. [Boston Globe]

Pointer back and skating.

There is some really good news on the blue line for the Fighting Sioux. Junior defenseman Derrick Lapoint is making a speedy recovery after suffering a horrific leg injury last winter against the MSU-M Mavericks (video included). I have to wonder how Derrick can watch the video as well? This is good news and reason for Sioux fans to be excited about Derrik Lapoint's return to the line up for the 2009-2010 season. Lapoint brings veteran experience and poise. So we can rest asured that the young defensem an back running, skating and will be ready to go when the season starts.

Derrick LaPoint sat down with his teammates and watched the gruesome video.

Not the one you saw on the Internet that clearly shows his leg shattering upon impact with the end boards during a February game. This recording of the play was taken from the bench area.

“It looks way worse,” LaPoint says. “Too graphic for YouTube.”

Some UND players nearly lost their lunch. Others asked LaPoint how he could watch it.

“It hurt more the first time around,” he says. “Watching it isn’t all that bad.”

By all accounts, LaPoint is excelling in his comeback from the tibia-fibula fracture that silenced Ralph Engelstad Arena five months ago. He’s putting on some pounds in the weight room. He’s running a mile a day. And now, he’s back on skates, too.

LaPoint is on schedule to be 100 percent come the team’s opening exhibition game against the University of Manitoba on Oct. 4. [Grand Forks Herald]

36 times last season...

Time to get Phil Kessel signed to an NHL contract, the season is slowly approaching and goal scorers are not a dime a dozen. I have read a lot of comments from other Bruins fans that say, 'oh we don't need Kessel we will be fine, Sturm and Bergeron can pick up the slack.' Yeah, ok! It takes brute force and offensive imagination to win hockey games, we can not beat every opponent into submission. Not everyone can score goals at a 30-40 point clip and not everyone can check their opponent through the boards and drop the gloves. I would love to come home from my vaction and see that the Bruins have everyone signed up for the 2009-2010 season.

No one is above the Fray.

There are some that like to take joy in others school's troubles when their athletes run into trouble with the law. I just want to remind people that most schools that have division one programs will have their issues from time to time and that no school is squeaky clean, not even Denver.

For instance; the University of Minnesota has had issues with the football, Hockey and Basketballs teams, our neighbors to the south at North Dakota State University have had their share of incidents as well. Not even Denver University is above the fray and has had their troubles as well.

Longtime University of Denver men's lacrosse coach Jamie Munro resigned today, DU athletic director Peg Bradley-Doppes said.

Munro coached DU for 11 seasons, leading them four Great Western Lacrosse League championships and two NCAA tournament appearances. He leaves with a 91-70 career record. He was the Great Western coach of the year twice (2000 and '06).

"It's been a wonderful ride at DU," Munro said.

Murno's departure comes after a tumultuous season at DU. Three players were kicked off the team midseason. Ilija Gajic, a junior, was removed from the team last month after he was arrested for a fight at a bar in January. Gajic is the younger brother of Colorado Mammoth player Nenad Gajic and the older brother of DU freshman forward Alex Gajic.

Senior Brad Richardson and sophomore Jamie Lincoln were also removed from the team last month.

According to a report in the DU student newspaper, The Clarion, a woman was attacked Jan. 28 by a group of lacrosse players at a bar.

Another player, sophomore Brendan Deblois, was arraigned on charges from the same fight, the paper said. But he was not kicked off the team last month.

Only nine of 40 players on the DU roster last season played all 15 games.

A national search for Munro's replacement will start immediately, Bradley-Doppes said. Two of Munro's assistant coaches last season have other local lacrosse ties. Assistant coach Matt Brown also plays for the Denver Outlaws of Major League Lacrosse. And Jon Torpey is a former player with the Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League.

One might want to worry about their own school before they go sniffing around someone else's. Seems to me there are a lot more serious allegations here in the DU lacrosse player's incidents. The UND incident is about two guys getting drunk and throwing their stuff in the street not quite as serious as a bar fight. Just saying! In fact if you look that DG laid out you don’t seen any criminal charges for assault.

Zajac gets four year deal.

Former Fighting Sioux forward Travis Zajac got a nice raise and avoided arbitration.

The Devils have avoided Friday's arbitration hearing and re-signed restricted free agent center Travis Zajac to a four-year contract worth a total of $15.55 million

Zajac said it is a four-year deal, but would not divulge any other details of the contract.

Zajac, 24, is coming off a breakout season in which he posted career-highs with 20 goals, 42 assists, 62 points and a team-best plus-33 defensive rating.

"He's developed into a core player and getting him long-term I think is good for both him and his growth and for the organization," Lamoriello told me this morning.

Only Monday, Lamoriello said he it appeared as if the sides were headed to an arbitration hearing on Friday in Toronto, but these things have a way of working themselves out in the final days before the hearing and they reached adn agreement late Tuesday night. [Fire and Ice]

Here are some more details on Travis Zajac's new deal. I think the deal that Travis signed could be a gauge for other three year players looking for their first deal as a restricted free agent that scored 60 points the season before.

Zajac signed a four-year contract for a total of $15.55 million or an average -- and cap hit of -- $3,887,500. The new deal pays him $2.75 million in 2009-10, $3.5 million in 2010-11, $4.5 million in 2011-12 and $4.8 million in 2012-13. [Fire and Ice]

UND comes down on Frattin.

Per Grand Forks Herald Beat writer Brad Elliott Schlossman Fighting Sioux hockey coach Dave Hakstol has already announced his discipline for UND Junior Forward Matt Frattin. I want to applaud Coach Hakstol for dealing with this in a swift manner so it won't fester all summer long.

UND announced a minimum two-game suspension for Matt Frattin, along with an order to attend counseling, and it is reducing his scholarship money for the 2009-10 year following his arrest Tuesday night for disorderly conduct. [UND hockey Blog]

Finley, Frattin face disorderly conduct charges.

As most of you know by now Joe Finley and Matt Frattin had a run in with the law recently. It's in the newspapers around the region. I have already received numerous emails and phones calls from various people giving me their thoughts on the matter, before I even got out of bed this morning. Personally, I don't like commenting on conduct issues because a lot of times there is more to the story that what ends up in a police report/blotter or in the news paper.

Before you say, 'but, but Goon..." Yes! I know, this incident doesn't reflect well on Coach Hakstol, the University of North Dakota or the Fighting Sioux Hockey team. I am sure the Finley and Hakstol haters will have more ammunition to blast away now with this incident. I am sure there will be some in the media down in Fargo that will call for Frattin to be disciplined, suspended and or kicked off the UND hockey team. I’m also sure coach Hakstol will take care of this matter in a way that he sees fit. We may not hear what the actual punishment was, nor do we need to know the details. Again, this was a stupid incident and I am not defending it. I am also not going to spend all day condemning it as well.

Don’t get me wrong! I don't approve of this behavior, this is a silly incident that will be remembered long into next season, however, before you mean mouth these young men take this into account; did you ever get drunk and act stupid and have the cops called on you? When you were younger and alcohol was involved, did you ever do something like this? Did you ever get cited for underage drinking or a loud party or starting a fight? These guys make the same mistakes a lot of us have made but weren’t a member of the hockey team.

Julie Robenhymer on the Fighting Sioux name.

Julie Robenhymer from Hockey Buzz made her latest Hockey Buzz Tv show on saving the Fighting Sioux nickname. For having not attended UND or lived in North Dakota I will give her an "A". I might have hooked her up with a few things as well.

[click here to watch the video]

Phil Kessel on AM 640 Toronto.

Check out Phil Kessel on AM 640 in Toronto. I saw this story over on Puck Daddy and it doesn't sound like there is much going on. Also, Greg is right, "when he wasn't boring the will to live out of everyone within earshot." Phil is not the most prolific interview out there.

Goon's USA Olympic team.

Kyle from the Illegal Curve asked me to submit my USA Olympic team. Again this is just for fun, and not to be taken very seriously. This is just who "I" think will be selected to be on team USA. Also, if you read the post you I will see that I be writing a weekly college hockey post for the IC. I must say that I am honored to have been asked by Kyle.

Illegal Curve is pleased to announce that Goon of Goon’s World will be writing a weekly college hockey post on Illegal Curve starting this fall. In the mean time, he has agreed to post his version of Team USA for the upcoming 2010 Olympics. Enjoy!

Defense (Defence):
1. Brooks Orpik, San Francisco, CA, Pittsburgh Penguins
2. Rob Scuderi, Syosset, N.Y. Pittsburgh Penguins
3. Ryan Suter, Madison, Wis. Nashville Predators
4. Paul Martin, Minneapolis, Minn. New Jersey Devils
5. Ryan Whitney, Boston, Mass. Anaheim Ducks
6. Brian Rafalski, Dearborn, Mich. Detroit Red Wings
7. Tom Gilbert, Minneapolis, Minn. Edmonton Oilers


Forward:
1. Phil Kessel, Madison, Wis. Boston Bruins
2. Zach Parise, Minneapolis, Minn. New Jersey Devils
3. T.J. Oshie, Warroad, Minn. St. Louis Blues
4. Patrick Kane, Buffalo, N.Y. Chicago Blackhawks
5. David Backes, Minneapolis, Minn. St. Louis Blues
6. Jamie Langenbrunner, Cloquet, Minn. New Jersey Devils
7. Kyle Okposo, Paul, Minn. New York Islanders
8. Dustin Brown, Ithaca, N.Y. Los Angeles Kings
9. David Booth, Detroit, Mich. Florida Panthers
10. Scott Gomez, Anchorage, Alaska New York Rangers
11. Joe Pavelski, Stevens Point, Wis. San Jose Sharks
12. Paul Stastny, Quebec City, Quebec Colorado Avalanche
13. Chris Drury, Trumbull, Conn. New York Rangers


Goalie:
1. Ryan Miller, East Lansing, Mich. Buffalo Sabres
2. Tim Thomas, Flint, Mich. Boston Bruins
3. Jonathan Quick, Milford, Conn. Los Angeles Kings

Bruins Salary break down.

Here is the current break down of the Bruins salary cap situation. It would appear that someone is going to have to be moved to make room for Phil Kessel. I would suggest getting rid of one of the following players; Marco Sturm, Chuck Kobasew or Patrice Bergeron to make room for Kessel.
Forwards

Marc Savard, $5 million
Patrice Bergeron, $4.75 million
Michael Ryder, $4 million
David Krejci, $3.75 million
Marco Sturm, $3.5 million
Chuck Kobasew, $2,333,333 million
Glen Murray, $1,383,333 million (buyout)
Mark Recchi, $1 million
Blake Wheeler, $875,000
Milan Lucic, $850,000
Steve Begin, $850,000
Byron Bitz, $687,500
Peter Schaefer, $566,667 (buyout)
Shawn Thornton, $516,667

* Kessel is a restricted free agent.

Defensemen

Zdeno Chara, $7.5 million
Dennis Wideman, $3.875 million
Aaron Ward, $2.5 million
Matt Hunwick, $1.45 million
Andrew Ference, $1.4 million
Mark Stuart, $1.3 million

Goalies

Tim Thomas, $5 million
Tuukka Rask, $850,000

Current cap hit: $53,937,500.

ANALYSIS: The Bruins have $2,862,500 of cap space under the $56.8 million ceiling with Kessel yet to sign. If Kessel decides to lower his contract demands and re-sign, the Bruins would have to clear some salary under the ceiling. The Bruins can go 10 percent over the cap ($62,480,000) prior to the start of the regular season, but this route is considered risky. [Boston Globe]

Sheryl Crow in a Beaver jersey...

My buddy Scott went to the Moon Dance in Walker, Minnesota last Thursday and during the oncore rocker Sherly Crow wore a Bemidji State University Beaver jersey. Sign me up for a new jersey. Holy Cow!

props to [Sherly Crow] and [Brian Schultz]

B's Re-sign Defenseman Matt Hunwick

The Bruins re-signed their promising young defenseman Matt Hunwick (Michigan), the argument was made that if the Bruins had Hunwick during the Carolina series they might have won. It will be interesting to see what he signed for. Hunwick was the top scoring rookie defenseman this past season. Now the Bruins front office needs to focus their efforts on signing super forward Phil "the Thrill" Kessel (Minnesota).

BOSTON, MA – Boston Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli announced today that the club has signed defenseman Matt Hunwick to a multi-year contract extension. Per club policy, terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

Hunwick registered six goals, 21 assists and a plus/minus rating of +15 in 53 games during his rookie season in 2008-09. His 27 points placed him third amongst Bruins defensemen and he scored his first NHL goal on November 17, 2008 against the Maple Leafs. Hunwick played forward in six games last year and posted 1-1-2 totals while skating up front.

He played in one postseason game for the Bruins before being sidelined with a spleen injury that forced him to miss the rest of the playoffs.

The 24-year-old native of Warren, Michigan was originally drafted by the Bruins in the seventh round (224th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Bruins on November 10, 2007 against the Buffalo Sabres and recorded his first career point on December 10, 2007 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He played in 13 games for Boston during the 2007-08 campaign and registered one assist.

Hunwick spent most of the 2007-2008 season with the Providence Bruins notching two goals and 21 assists in 55 regular season games. Prior to joining the Bruins, Hunwick played four years of collegiate hockey for the University of Michigan with 24-73-97 totals and 256 penalty minutes in 163 career games.

Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament

Time to sign up for the Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tourney. Just mailed my entry fee in today, I am psyched.

For Immediate Press Release
Monday, July 20, 2009

Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament
July 29-30, 2009
Grand Forks, ND

Grand Forks, ND: On Wednesday, July 29th and Thursday, July 30th, 2009, we will be hosting the 2009 - 3rd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament. Attached you'll find the 2009 Registration / Sponsorship Packet along with some pictures from the 2008 event here in Grand Forks. We invite you to look it over and contact me via e-mail or cell phone at (360) 722-1784.

If your respective media outlet is interested in features please contact me immediately at the credentials below. The final list of Celebrities will be announced on Tuesday, July 28, 2009.

Celebrity interviews will be conducted on Wednesday, July 29th at the King's Walk G.C. starting at 11:30 a.m. near the Club House .. and also at the Rydell - GM Auto Center after 8:30 p.m.

On Thursday, July 30th, the Celebrity Field will ensamble at 11:30 a.m. for interviews once again near the King's Walk Clubhouse. Post tournament interviews will take place at the conclusion of the event

The event will feature a "Celebrity Skins Match" on the afternoon of July 29th which will allow the business leaders to purchase a 4-some at $200.00 plus the cost of golf / carts for the group.

Later that night, "A Meet The Celebrities Autograph Session" will take place from 6:30 - 8 p.m. at the Rydell - GM Auto Center Cadillac Showroom in Grand Forks, ND. This special event is open to the general public and will give the fans a chance to meet the guys up front and personal in a very special setting inside the Rydell-GM Auto Center Cadillac Showroom in Grand Forks.

Each person will receive a commemorative 2009 Oshie Celebrity Golf placard for autograph purposes as our compliments. If the general public wants special items signed such as jerseys, pucks, pictures, or other memorablia, there is a $5.00 per item charged upon entry. This special event will directly benefit the EGF / GF Youth Hockey BlueLine Clubs under the Oshie Scholarship Fund.

The 3nd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, July 30th, at the magnificent links-style King's Walk Golf Course. This Arnold Palmer designed golf course is one of the best courses in North Dakota.

The cost per foursome will remain $500.00 and your team will receive:

- One team of 4 golfers (plus celebrity) for golf / cart at King's Walk Golf Course on Thursday, July 30th, 2009.
- Complimentary gift for each golfer
- Company or players names recognized in program
- Complimentary hamburger upon registration
- A 12:15 P.M. Pre-Tourney Meeting With PGA Professional Dan Tannahill .. Then 12:30 P.M Shotgun Start
- Complimentary dinner / appetizers at completion of tournament
- Team prize packages
- Live Auction @ Post Awards Ceremony

If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Timothy Oshie at (360) 722-1784 or simply e-mail to oshiesports@gmail.com.

Here are the credentials snip-its of all 2009 - 3rd Annual Oshie Celebrity Golf Tournament Invitees **Subject To Change At Anytime**:

T.J. Oshie (St. Louis Blues / UND) HOST
Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks / UND)
Dave Hakstol (UND Fighting Sioux Head Coach)
Cary Eades (UND Fighting Sioux Associate Head Coach)
Dane Jackson (UND Fighting Sioux Assistant Coach)
Taylor Chorney (Edmonton Oilers / UND)
Marc Chorney (NHL / UND)
Scotty Hartnell (Philadelphia Flyers)
Kyle Okposo (New York Islanders)
David Backes (St. Louis Blues)
Matt Niskanen (Dallas Stars)
Colby Genoway (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Karl Goehring (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Dave Christian ('80 Olympic USA Miracle Team / NHL / UND)
Kyle Radke (Idaho Steelheads / UND)
Phil Lamoureux (Alaska Aces / UND)
Nick Fuher (UND)
Scotty Johnson (UMD / NHL Retired Goal Judge)
Ginny Christian ('56 Olympic USA Team / UND)
Billy Christian ('60 Olympic Gold Medal Team USA)
Andrew Kozek (UND Fighting Sioux / Atlanta Thrashers Draft Choice)
Landon Wilson (Dallas Stars / UND)
Brad Miller (UND / Austin ECHL)
Erik Fabian (Alaska Aces / UND)
Matt Smaby (Tampa Bay Lightning / UND)
David Hale (Phoenix Coyotes / UND)

+ More Names To Come

Teams / Individual registrations plus Hole Sponsorships are still being accepted for this years event. Hope you are having a great summer 2009 !!

Kindest Regards,



Timothy W. Oshie
c/o Oshie Sports & Media
420 N. 8th Street
Grand Forks, ND 58203
(360) 722-1784 Cell #
oshiesports@gmail.com

Blackhawks' Jonathan Toews more relaxed in captain role.

Here is a nice Jonathan Toews video that was on the Chicago Tribune web site.

Colborne: I'm a different player than last year

Joe Colborne is a poised young man, I have been impressed with his demeanor during the Boston Bruins prospects camp and I think he will make a good addition for the Boston Bruins in a year or two.

More Kessel rumors from Kevin Paul Dupont.

I sometimes wonder if Kevin Paul Dupont is trying to invent a story where there might not be one. It almost seems like KPD is trying to wish Kessel out of Boston. So if the Kessel and Chiarelli camps are not talking to KPD, who is he talking to in regards to Phil Kessel's contract status? It would be interesting to see who that anonymous NHL general manager is?

The Phil Kessel contract talks, if the sides are indeed still talking, have not progressed.

Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli slams down the Cone of Silence at the mere mention of No. 81, and agent Wade Arnott - not nearly as chatty as his boss, Don Meehan - has politely refused a handful of opportunities to comment on his client, a restricted free agent with no arbitration rights.

So, with about eight weeks to go before the start of training camp, here’s how it’s shaping up for the 21-year-old winger, who potted 36 goals last season. Kessel can:

►Cut a one-year deal, accepting only a slight bump over his 2008-09 wages, and use it as a bridge to arbitration as of next July 1. If he popped in another 36 goals or more in 2009-10, he could ring up the Causeway cash drawer for $5 million per year or more next summer. Remember, the players who scored more than Kessel last year will average $6.5 million in the coming season.

►Take something akin to David Krejci money (three years/$11.25 million), forget about finances for 36 months, and come to the table in the spring of 2012, ideally with a more mature and proven overall game.

►Force his way out of town, either by requesting a trade or refusing to sign, leading Chiarelli to deal away a non-performing asset (probably at the post-Olympic trading deadline).

►Wait for a Group 2 offer sheet, of which there have been none this summer, nearly three weeks into the free agency process.

“Kessel is an interesting, exciting player, and he had a very good year,’’ said another NHL GM, insisting on anonymity for fear of being slapped with tampering charges. “But from the outside, I wonder if he’ll get from the level of good player to great player. And great players are those who, by themselves, can lead the team when they are on the ice. In other words, just by being out there you alone can make the team have a better chance of winning. Kessel hasn’t proved that yet.

“Don’t get me wrong, he’s a brilliant offensive guy, but he still has to show more before he proves he’s an elite player worthy of elite money.’’

And why no offer sheets thus far around the league?

“People are running scared for a variety of reasons,’’ said the GM. “First of all, with [Dustin] Penner [whom the Oilers plucked off Anaheim’s roster in August 2007], the results aren’t there. And the cap [$56.8 million for the upcoming season] is expected to come down. I’m a little surprised that there haven’t been offer sheets to some lower-end players, but teams probably figure that the other team will match it, and then all you’ve done in the process is made an enemy . . . why create the monster?’’ [Boston Globe]

More on the Dany Heatley saga.

Here is another interesting article on disgruntled Ottawa Senators forward Dany Heatley. The more this plays out in the media, the more Dany doesn't look very good in this whole mess. If Heatly goes back to the Senators you got to think his team mates aren't going to be all that happy with him either.

That‘s been Dany Heatley‘s response to a few questions as of late. The obvious being Ottawa Senators general manager Bryan Murray asking him to waive his no-trade clause to join the Edmonton Oilers in late June, a deal that would have landed the Senators a package of forwards Dustin Penner and Andrew Cogliano as well as defenceman Ladislav Smid in return.

Heatley, who requested a trade out of the nation‘s capital the previous week, had until midnight on July 1 to accept or refuse the trade, but instead let the deadline pass without comment. Fast forward a few weeks, and Heatley still isn‘t talking.
Not to teammates, at least not captain Daniel Alfredsson, and not to the media.
Not by phone and not in person. Several calls from media to the Senators sniper have gone unanswered, with messages not returned. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and, in this case, a Tuesday afternoon visit to Heatley‘s off-season home on Okanagan Lake in West Kelowna. A long and winding road to get there – not knowing whether he‘d be home or whether he‘d agree to an interview – it was certainly worth a shot.

Upon arriving, the back gate was open and seemingly welcoming. A portable basketball net was visible from the top of a downhill driveway, and a nice ski boat was docked just feet from the front yard. Fittingly, the 28-year-old former 50-goal scorer answered the door of his multi-million-dollar pad adorned in board shorts, a golf shirt and sunglasses. Then came the questions: Dany, I‘m so and so from The Daily Courier, was hoping I could shoot the breeze on some hockey stuff with you?
“Not right now, man. Sorry, I‘m just about to take off, actually,” said Heatley, pleasant but clearly surprised to see a reporter standing there. OK, fair enough, could we set something up for later on, maybe later in the week or next week?
“You know what, I‘ll take your card and I‘ll give you a call or have someone give you a call. We‘ll be in touch.” And so ended a rather anticlimactic encounter.
It didn‘t end with a flat out no, but by no means was it a guaranteed yes. More like a definite maybe, a response Steve Tambellini and the Oilers can relate to.
That proposed deal isn‘t dead, according to various reports, nor is this interview.
Or is it? Stay tuned. [Kelowna Daily Courier]

Big Joe Finley as a Forward.

On Frozen Blog has an interesting clip about big Joe Finley playing wing. It would be interesting to see if that experiment gets a bigger look during training camp.

- It was a brief experiment but it really intrigued me: Joe Finley at forward. He has good north-south speed for his size, and was willing/eager to go in deep on the forecheck. He also was immobile in one instance in front of the crease, taking a rebound and feeding it across the crease to set up a teammate for a scoring chance as a defender struggled in vain to move the big Minnesotan. It's just one and a half scrimmages in Rookie Camp, but it wouldn't bother me at all if Finley was tried on the wing a bit in Hershey. He's a good interview, as well, and gives at least as good as he gets with a microphone in front of him.

UND nickname proponents hope for Standing Rock referendum

I have been out of pocket for the day and a half and there wasn't an Internet hook up next to the campfire last night. All I can say to the Standing Rock members is keep fighting the good fight, KEEP putting pressure on the Ron His Horse is Thunder. Don't let a few talk for the whole tribe.

Standing Rock supporters of UND’s Fighting Sioux nickname continue to hope that they can get the issue on the ballot as a referendum within the next two months.

Archie Fool Bear, a nickname proponent, said his group is still gathering signatures to persuade the Tribal Council to give tribal members a say.

In May 2008, the council voted to ban any nickname referendum indefinitely. In May of this year, some members of the council tried to reverse that but were narrowly defeated, Fool Bear said.

That proves to him, he said, that not the entire council is intent on blocking a vote. If he can get enough signatures together, he could talk to some opposing council members and see if they’d change their mind, he said.

So, contrary to nickname supporters’ earlier expectations, the Tribal Council appears to be central to the nickname issue.

For UND to retain the nickname, which opponents say is racist and creates a hostile campus environment, the Tribal Councils of both the namesake tribes in the state must approve. The State Board of Higher Education in May added another requirement: a 30-year agreement to keep the nickname from both councils. The deadline, the board said, is Oct. 1.

Eunice Davidson, a nickname supporter in the Spirit Lake Dakotah Nation, said the Tribal Council there hasn’t approved the nickname yet, though she expects it’ll happen soon. She and other supporters got the issue on the ballot in April, and 67.3 percent of voters approved. [Grand Forks Herald]

Pictures from the Galen Nagle.

I played in yesterday's Galen Nagle Memorial golf tourney and it was a lot of fun. My golf game was another thing, let’s just say that it was not very good, the way my driver worked yesterday I should have deposited into Lake Bemidji. Spoke briefly with the BSU coach Tom Serratore and told him that I was excited that the Beavers have been accepted to play in the WCHA.

Standing Rock Tribal Chairman Narrowly Advances to General Election

You do have to wonder if his narrow vitory has to do with his lack of flexibility on the Fighting Sioux nick name issue? Ron His Horse Is Thunder is stifling the democratic process by not letting the the members of the Standing Rock tribe vote on the Fighting Sioux nick name. What is he afraid of?

Unofficial Results: Cassie Walder, WDAZ, Published Thursday, July 16, 2009
Unofficial election results show current chairman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in Fort Yates, North Dakota, narrowly advancing to the tribe’s September general election. Current chairman Ron His Horse Is Thunder was not the top vote-getter in Wednesday night's primary election. Early morning unofficial result tallies show only two votes carried His Horse Is Thunder as one of the two candidates advancing. His top challenger, former tribal chairman Charles Murphy, topped His Horse Is Thunder with 567 votes from the tribes 8 precincts. But it was current tribal vice-chair Avis Little Eagle who was the most immediate threat to His Horse Is Thunder, receiving 221 votes. Just two less than His Horse Is Thunder's 223 vote total. Again, these results were unofficial at press time. If certified, both His Horse Is Thunder and Murphy will move forward to the tribe’s September general election.


His Horse Is Thunder has repeatedly held his opposition to the University of North Dakota’s use of the Fighting Sioux nickname and logo. Though Standing Rock supporters of the nickname have called for a tribe-wide vote, His Horse Is Thunder has maintained such a vote would not be binding. He said the Sioux nickname issue was not a driving force in the primary election run-off. Though several candidates running for the tribal chairman's spot were vocal in their support of UND's use of the nickname, top vote-getter Charles Murphy has not spoken about it.


Without approval from both the Standing Rock and Spirit Lake Sioux tribes and a 30-year contract granting UND use of the nickname by October 1 of this year, the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education will retire the nickname. The Spirit Lake tribe voted in support of the nickname this spring. However, the Spirit Lake tribal council has not granted a 30-year approval for nickname use. Tonight's Standing Rock election results will be certified tomorrow.