Deadline Recap

With a total of 16 trades, this was definitely the thinnest deadline in recent memory. To be fair, it was expected. A large disparity between the number of buyers and sellers drove prices too high for most GMs. The Rick Nash experiment was hopeful at best. To finalize a deal of that magnitude in only a few days is near impossible. He will be gone in June however. Mark my words. Scott Howson made the situation worse with his post-deadline press conference. He won't be employed much longer after his dealings this past year.

Although this wasn't the most active of deadlines, there were still a number of significant depth moves. Let's breakdown each team's movements.

Anaheim Ducks

In: Mark Fraser, Sebastian Erixon, Ryan O'Marra, Riley Holzapfel

Out: Dale Mitchell, Andrew Gordon, Bryan Rodney, Maxime Macenauer

Overall Grade: B-

I'm not even going to pretend to know half of these names or their potential. But I will notate the moves Anaheim did not make. They held onto Teemu Selanne and Bobby Ryan - two of the players rumored to be traded. While Selanne's contract is up at the end of the season, he still has gas in the tank to help with a final playoff push. Ryan is on the books for another three years. That's terrific news for Duck fans. It will be a tough accomplishment, but players like Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, Saku Koivu, Lubomir Visnovky and Jonas Hiller, the Ducks have a shot at the playoffs.

Boston Bruins

In: Brian Rolston, Greg Zanon, Mike Mottau

Out: Steve Kampfer, Yannick Riendeau, Marc Cantin

Overall Grade: A

Brian Rolston is now the highest-paid Bruin. While that's a little unsettling, their new lineup is not. Zanon is a tremendous shot-blocking defensemen who plays important minutes. Mottau is a solid seventh defensemen if someone gets injured down the line. This enhanced lineup will contend for another Cup. Great moves!

Buffalo Sabres

In: Cody Hodgson, Alexander Sulzer, 1st-round pick (2012)

Out: Paul Gaustad, Zack Kassian, Marc-Andre Gragnani, 4th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B+

Cody Hodgson is a player who I think will thrive with increases ice time and responsibility. His shot is top-notch and he's a tremendous two-way center - something the Sabres desperately needed. Unfortunately those players don't come cheap. Zack Kassian is a great power forward with soft hands and Marc-Andre Gragnani was a pretty decent puck-moving defenseman. Honestly, that was fairly even, mutually beneficial trade. The Sabres also swapped a 4th-rounder and Paul Gaustad for a 1st-round pick. Gaustad was an important piece, but a 1st-round pick is a nice return. He may very well go right back to the Sabres after this season.

Calgary Flames

In: Nothing

Out: Nothing

Overall Grade: D-

Once again, the definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. I guess they made one move when they traded Rene Bourque for Mike Cammalleri. While this team may squeak into the playoffs, that's all they will do. Lame. 

Carolina Hurricanes

In: Nothing

Out: Nothing

Overall Grade: C-

The only reason the Hurricanes have a better grade than the Flames is because thethey have some talented, young individuals in their pipeline. Calgary, not so much. I still think the 'Canes could have got something for Jaroslav Spacek.

Chicago Blackhawks

In: Johnny Oduya, 5th-round pick (2012), Future considerations

Out: John Scott, Brendon Segal, 2nd-round pick (2013), 3rd-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B-

The 'Hawks received a good defenseman in Oduya. He'll be a valuable asset on a back-end that's struggled to meet expectations this year. The team has played two more games than the 9th-seeded Los Angeles Kings - who sit 5 points behind Chicago - and has difficult match-ups left in the Central. A lot of work is still ahead if they want to make it back into the playoffs.

Colorado Avalanche

In: Jamie McGinn, Steve Downie, Danny Richmond, Michael Sgarbossa, Mike Connolly

Out: Kyle Quincey, Daniel Winnik, T.J. Galiardi, Mike Carman, 7th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: C+

Although they obtained valuable pieces in Downie and McGinn, they also paid a hefty price with the departures of Winnik, Quincey and Galiardi. This all is taking place as the team makes a nice push for the playoffs. Why mess with a good thing? No, the playoffs aren't definite, but it seems as though the Avs gave up too much and got back too little. 

Columbus Blue Jackets

In: Jack Johnson, Curtis McElhinney, Conditional 1st-round pick, 2nd-round pick (2012), two 4th-round picks (2012), 5th-round pick (2013)

Out: Jeff Carter, Samuel Pahlsson, Antoine Vermette

Overall Grade: C+

After an absolutely dreadful season, the Blue Jackets cleaned house as expected. They received a plethora of picks and Jack Johnson for the skill of Carter, Pahlsson and Vermette - three very good players. After Rick Nash leaves this summer, it'll be interesting to see how the team looks. They will definitely be better equipped in five years. The next few will be embarrassing however. The real prize: Nail Yakupov!

Dallas Stars

In: 2nd-round pick (2012), 3rd-round pick (2013)

Out: Nicklas Grossman

Overall Grade: B

The Stars didn't trade away Steve Ott or any other valuable pieces, which is a plus. Theyare currently fighting for a playoff spot and, in my opinion, have a decent chance of getting it. Grossman brought back two  solid picks that will better this organization down the line.

Detroit Red Wings

In: Kyle Quincey, Conditional 7th-round pick (2013)

Out: Mike Commodore, Sebastien Piche, 1st-round pick (2012)

Overall Grade: B-

The price for Quincey was a bit high, but the Wings are familiar with his play and he'll definitely be counted on in the lineup. After Jonathon Ericsson suffered a broken wrist, I thought the Wings would go after another defenseman, but instead traded away Mike Commodore. We'll see how this team fares if there's an injury down the line.

Edmonton Oilers

In: Nick Schultz, Bryan Rodney

Out: Tom Gilbert, Ryan O'Marra

Overall Grade: C-

Tom Gilbert > Nick Schultz. I'm not quite sure why the Oilers made this move. It only saves $1.5 million over the next three years. Oh, Edmonton. The good news: another top pick. Is there a cap on how many lottery picks you can get in a row?

Florida Panthers

In: Jerred Smithson, Wojtek Wolski

Out: Mike Vernace, 3rd-round pick (2013), 6th-round pick (2012)

Overall Grade: B+

Smithson and Wolski are both NHL-caliber players and will bring added depth to a Panther team on the playoff bubble. Florida has surprised a lot of critics this year, including myself, and these additions should be of some help. 

Los Angeles Kings

In: Jeff Carter

Out: Jack Johnson, Conditional 1st-round pick 

Overall Grade: B-

Carter should provide some scoring depth to a team that desperately needs it. Dustin Brown was retained and King fans should be ecstatic. Jack Johnson will be missed on defense, but LA does have some pretty good prospects. I really want to see them make the playoffs. 

Minnesota Wild

In: Tom Gilbert, Erik Christensen, Kurtis Foster, Nick Palmieri, Stephane Vielleux, Steve Kampfer, 2nd-round pick (2012), Conditional 3rd-round pick (2013), 7th-round pick (2013)

Out: Marek Zidlicky, Nick Schultz, Greg Zanon, Casey Wellman

Overall Grade: B-

I guess the Minnesota Wild are calling it a season. They traded away three of their top defensemen and acquired a number of draft picks. Gilbert is a nice addition to replace one of those lost defensmen and Jared Spurgeon has had a terrific year. Hopefully, these picks turn into something. It'd be nice to see the Hockey State succeed.

Montreal Canadiens

In: Blake Geoffrion, Robert Slaney, two 2nd-round picks (2012 & 2013), Conditional 5th-round pick (2013)

Out: Andrei Kostitsyn, Hal Gill, 5th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: C

The Canadiens traded away a talented, yet frustrating, forward for two "meh" picks. They also lost Hal Gill. This team needs to get its act together...now. They don't take hockey lightly in Montreal. Let's hope Geoffrion's bloodline kicks in soon.

Nashville Predators

In: Andre Kostitsyn, Hal Gill, Paul Gaustad, 4th-round pick (2013), 5th-round pick (2013), 6th-round pick (2012)

Out: Jerred Smithson, Blake Geoffrion, Robert Slaney, 1st-round pick (2012), two 2nd-round picks (2012 & 2013), Conditional 5th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: A-

The Nashville Predators are serious contenders in the Western Conference now. They added a potential scoring punch, a shutdown defenseman and a face-off wizard - not to mention a few late picks in the coming drafts. Sure, the price was steep for these pieces, especially Gaustad, but the Predators realize they have a good team NOW. It helps that Ryan Suter and Shea Weber need new contracts come June. Convincing much?

New Jersey Devils
In: Marek Zidlicky
Out: Kurtis Foster, Nick Palmieri, Stephane Veilleux, 2nd-round pick (2012), Conditional 3rd-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B- 

Although the Devils gave up a lot for Marek Zidlicky, he fits into their current situation quite well. If we look at the other trades, Johnny Oduya was worth a second and a third. Zidlicky is that, plus three NHL players? Admittedly, Foster is the only real impact player. Zidlicky is signed for another year and will definitely provide stability on the blueline. He should help their playoff run if Martin Brodeur can stay strong, which shouldn't be an issue. 

New York Islanders

In: Yannick Riedneau, Marc Cantin

Out: Brian Rolston, Mike Mottau

Overall grade: C-

The Islanders cleared some cap space as usual, getting ready for "the future." When is that by the way?

New York Rangers

In: John Scott, Casey Wellman, Mike Vernace, 3rd-round pick (2013)

Out: Wojtek Wolski, Erik Christensen, 5th-round pick (2012), 7th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B-

The Rangers didn't need to do much. They shed some figurative weight, while getting literal weight back in Scott. He'll provide some grit to a team that's, well...gritty. New York may be for real this year. Long live King Hank. 

Ottawa Senators

In: Matt Gilroy

Out: Brain Lee

Overall Grade: ?

Only time will tell if this was a good swap - both very young defensemen.

Philadelphia Flyers

In: Pavel Kubina, Nicklas Grossman, Matt Ford

Out: Kevin Marshall, Jon Kalinski, two 2nd-round picks (2012 & 2013), 3rd-round pick (2013), Conditional 4th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B+

The Flyers gave up a few picks in the coming years, but got back two solid defensemen they desperately desired - brought by the absence of Chris Pronger. Philadelphia is set to do some damage in the playoffs if their goaltending can be consistent enough.

Phoenix Coyotes

In: Antoine Vermette

Out: Curtis McElhinney, 2nd-round pick (2012), 5th-round pick (2013)

Overall Grade: B+

Vermette adds speed to an all ready fast team. They gave up a few picks and a back-up goalie, but it's a small price to pay for a very good center. The Coyotes have played extremely well as of late and this move is only going to add fuel to the fire.

Pittsburgh Penguins

In: Nothing

Out: Nothing

Overall Grade: B

Why mess with a good thing? Evgeni Malkin is carrying the team while Marc-Andre Fleury has another strong season.

San Jose Sharks

In: Daniel Winnik, T.J. Galiradi, Dominic Moore, two 7th-round picks (2012 & 2013)

Out: Jamie McGinn, Michael Sgarbossa, Mike Connolly, 2nd-round pick (2012)

Overall Grade: A-

I believe the Sharks are a better team post-deadline. Winnik, Moore and Galiardi are tremendous role-players. McGinn will be missed, but San Jose is set up for another Cup run in a difficult Western Conference. This team could use an appearance in the Finals.

St. Louis Blues

In: 2nd-round pick (2013)

Out: Ben Bishop

Overall Grade: B

There is no need to alter this team. Ken Hitchcock has made them a legitimate contender.

Tampa Bay Lightning

In: Keith Aulie, Mike Commodore, Brian Lee, Brendon Segal, Sebastien Piche, Jon Kalinski, 1st-round pick (2012), two 2nd-round pick (2012 & 2013), Conditional 4th-round pick (2013)

Out: Steve Downie, Dominic Moore, Pavel Kubina, Carter Ashton, Matt Gilroy, two 7th-round picks (2012 & 2013 - conditional), Future considerations

Overall Grade: B+

Talk about a rebuild. After a terrible season, GM Steve Yzerman shook up the roster. He let some good players go for a few picks - all in the top four rounds. I think their biggest concern is goaltending right now. We'll see what happens with Cory Schneider at season's end. Schneider for some top picks...I think so.

Toronto Maple Leafs

In: Carter Ashton, Dale Mitchell

Out: Keith Aulie, Mark Fraser

Overall Grade: C-

The team needed to address a few issues - goaltending especially. Prices were too high and a deal couldn't be made. It's time to get back to fighting for that playoff spot. Good luck.

Vancouver Canucks

In: Zack Kassian, Samuel Pahlsson, Marc-Andre Gragnani, Andrew Gordon

Out: Cody Hodgson, Alexander Sulzer, Sebastian Erixon, two 4th-round picks (2012)

Overall Grade: B+

Hodgson is a good prospect and will be sorely missed in Vancouver. That being said, the Canucks added some nice pieces. Pahlsson is an extremely reliable two-way center, Kassian is a big body with soft hands and Marc-Andre Gragnani is a young puck-moving defenseman.  The Western Conference is going to be a real battle this year.

Washington Capitals

In: Mike Carman, Kevin Marshall

Out: Matt Ford, Danny Richmond

Overall Grade: F

What's the best thing to do with a struggling team? Stand pat. Tisk, tisk.

Winnipeg Jets

In: Maxime Macenauer, 2nd-round pick (2013), 3rd-round pick (2013)

Out: Johhny Oduya, Riley Holzapfel

Overall Grade: B-

While Oduya brought back some decent picks, he's going to be missed on defense. Still, Zach Bogosin, Dustin Byfuglien and Tobias Enstrom provide the Jets with a good core of d-men. I'd have like to see the Jets add a piece on offense, but hopefully the team can keep up their recent winning ways.

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That's it! Does my Stanley Cup Final prediction change? Yes. Instead of Pittsburgh going to the Finals, I'm going to have to pick Boston.

Boston vs. San Jose

What do you think?

Rick and Harry

Friday, for the second time, I was lucky enough to sit in the press box of the First Niagara Center. I knew it was going to be another tremendous day because well...it's the NHL. I'll jump at any chance to get closer to the game I love. However, life was even better this time around. That night, I had the honor of meeting Rick Jeanneret and Harry Neale (a special thanks to Brad Townsend for making that possible). Some of you may think honor is an exaggeration. I think not. They are both genuinely nice, amiable individuals. 

Being a "seasoned veteran" at obtaining credentials, I tried my best to remember the routine. I set a new personal record, with three, for the fewest questions asked on these trips and with little trouble, found my seat. A good friend of mine who works in the press box was to make the introduction to these Buffalo legends. Although excited, and a tad nervous, I tried my best to stay calm and not look like a total goober. My friend was fully aware of this anxiety. About a half an hour before the game, he made light of these sentiments by coming to my seat and jesting, "You've been summoned by Mr. Neale." I shook Harry's hand and he advised me to hang out in the lobby area between the first and second intermissions. Due to some scheduling uncertainties, the period in which I would be accompanying them was unknown. No problem. The first intermission came and I waited. Nothing. The second intermission followed and just before the period was about to start, I saw him down the hallway poke his head out of the booth and wave me down. He apologized for rushing, but had to be on camera for some discussions with Rob Ray in a few minutes. In the back of the booth, I stood and watched Harry Neale calmly talk to thousands upon thousands of viewers. No big deal, right? After that, they encouraged me to wear an extra headset they had and stand between them while the third period was announced. I moved right up to the edge, but backed off a tad because I didn't want to ruin their chemistry. It was obvious that they both loved hockey. Harry Neale missed a few cues by Rick Jeanneret to comment because he was intently watching the game. Like an old friend, Jeanneret just rolled his eyes and smiled. An exciting period of hockey, plus some bonus time, brought plenty of memories that ended with a Harry Neale gem: Michael Wyder. He put me to shame.

Before I knew it, the game was over and I thanked them both for the opportunity, which to them probably wasn't a huge deal. But for me, it was! Hopefully, this press box situation happens again and I can strike up more conversation with Buffalo's greatest announcers.

Buffalo vs. Dallas Review

1st Period:

The opening period was, to say the least, quite boring. There were a total of 17 shots, but it felt more like three. Kari Lehtonen made some key saves, especially on the slapper from Tyler Myers, that kept Dallas from falling behind. Cody McCormick's misstep (roughing) was the only opportunity the Stars needed. Alex Goligoski sent a bomb from the point that was deflected directly in front of Ryan Miller by Michael Ryder. The Sabres went into the locker room down one.

2nd Period:

The second period was also filled with a few yawns. That's not to say there weren't exciting moments however. Lehtonen stood on his head to preserve his team's lead once again. This included a phenomenal glove save on Drew Stafford. It's hard to imagine giving a goal scorer that much time and not paying a price. The Stars, as referenced in Lindy Ruff's press conference, did a great job clogging up the neutral zone. The Sabres once again left the ice trailing.

3rd Period:

The third period didn't start off as Buffalo had planned, or hoped. Early in the period, Steve Ott flew into the offensive zone, separating Christian Ehrhoff from the puck. Jamie Benn picked up the loose puck and dished a perfect pass to Tomas Vincour who buried the Stars' second tally. Buffalo immediately responded. After Radek Dvorak was sent off for hooking, Thomas Vanek capitalized on the power play with a beautiful deflection set up by Jason Pominville. Puck movement on the power play is essential. It appeared as though Buffalo was going to fall short until the Dallas Stars iced the puck. With about 45 seconds left, Paul Gaustad went to work in the face off circle, as usual. He won it back to Jason Pominville who dropped it off to Myers. After the shot got through to Lehtonen, a mad scrum was finalized by a Derek Roy goal.

OT & SO:

An exciting OT finished with a 2-on-0 that saw Ehrhoff drop a pass between his legs to a wide open Vanek. He couldn't lift the puck and Lehtonen made the save of the game with no time left in OT. The shootout took five rounds and finished with a Sykora-esque backhand by Nathan Gerbe (#backhandswork).

Final: Sabres 3, Stars 2

After the game, Ruff highlighted the importance of having veterans back in the lineup. The Sabres are going to need this kind of composure to stay in the playoff hunt.

Buffalo vs. Dallas Preview

I once again apologize for the lengthy absence. For the past few weeks I've been studying for some New York State insurance exams and this blog, unfortunately, has taken a backseat. Although I'm still in the process of completing these exams, this blog will definitely get more attention going forward.

Tonight, as the Dallas Stars visit the First Niagara Center to battle the Buffalo Sabres, I will be in the press box for the second time. And for the second time, I am absolutely ecstatic. In fact, I'm even more geeked because for the first period, I have the pleasure of sitting with Rick Jeanneret and Harry Neale (two of the most influential voices in Sabre history). I hear they're both classy gents, so I can't wait to pick their brains.

Now, the preview.

Even though the Sabres are currently ten points out of a playoff spot, one would be foolish to consider them finished. Proof lies in the Sabres' 6-0 smackdown of last year's Stanley Cup Champions on Wednesday. Sure, the team has had a rough season thus far, but that can all be forgotten with a strong finish. Just make the playoffs. Thomas Vanek is back after a three-game absence and will hopefully provide some offense, as he's been doing all season. Ryan Miller is in goal. He's 3-0 against the Dallas Stars, so this one is in the bag. However, with Tampa Bay tomorrow night, the Sabres have another goal outside of winning today's game: conserve energy.

The Dallas Stars are also competing for a playoff spot - only two points out, but with two games at hand. They've been up and down for most of the season, but with a little consistency, are well on their way to an appearance. A difficult Western Conference leaves no room for error and another bad month like January will have them setting tee times in April. The Stars may be a bit tired from last night, but don't underestimate their talent. Jamie Benn is slowly becoming one of the game's best power forwards. Paired with the pure skill of Loui Eriksson, this offense is formidable. In net tonight is Kari Lehtonen, who has been as solid as can be for a club. At the beginning of the season, he flew out of the gates, leading the NHL in wins. After an injury, he has fallen down the charts, but still keeps his team in contention every night.

This will be a great battle! Enjoy.

Follow my Twitter for updates: HolyJumpin40

Prediction: 

Sabres - 4

Stars - 3