Florida Panthers : Free Agency Live Blog - David Booth remains a Cat
I'm not comfortable with that tail.
We're just going to ramp this up and get the party started.
And here's a question: why hasn't a rat been incorporated into a new secondary logo? Seems criminal that the club is not following up on that. Oh well.
Hearing rumors? Got ideas? Need info to be shared? Post it up. This is YOUR open thread, so anything goes. Breaking news? Report it (with links). Questions? We'll find answers.
This will remain in place through the morning, so check back often...the comments post live.
And thanks for stopping by; it'll be a fascinating day. Go Cats.
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Comments
Hi All
Thanks for dropping in. We have a shoes-off policy at the door.
Hope you’ll continue to hit The Box as the night – and day – go on. Once more, you hear a rumor, have a suggestion, need to rant…post it up here. We’re gonna lead the free world as “Panthers Info Central”.
I can’t be here every second, but collectively, we can climb mountains. Let’s hear it all.
Nice post by Dave Joseph at the official site:
No one really seems to know how active teams will be come Wednesday due to the cap and economic climate. Vancouver’s GM Mike Gillis is in Sweden trying to negotiate a deal to keep Henrik and Daniel Sedin, who some believe could command $7 million a season each.
That’s market value, chilluns.
Bouw signed per TSN. Whooppppeee. Where are you Andy?? I like Cammy. Watched lots of Flames games last season.
I’m so thrilled for him. That’s wonderful. Just awesome. Phenomenal. Spectacular.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not even a FLA fan and I am filled with rage for Bouwmeester. Screw that guy.
by Fehr and Balanced on Jun 30, 2009 9:33 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s funny, Fehr…there really is no hatred here. Pockets of it, yes, but generally nothing crazy. We’ve been expecting this for soooooo long that it doesn’t even register as a problem, or offensive, or traitorous.
Personally? I’m thrilled the watch-andwait deal is over and done with.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 9:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m sure you are happy that the sideshow is done, I can definitely appreciate that. I’m just annoyed that I think he intentionally mislead the Panthers and killed (or at least helped GMJM kill) his trade value. If he had just said “I don’t want to be here” then fine, the front office could move him. He said he wouldn’t sign before July 1, which kills the trade value for his rights (weird how that all turned out, huh). Granted, GMJM should have read between the lines and known he wasn’t going to resign, but J-Bo just acted like a stuck up cock-tease through the whole process. All this by a guy who has accomplished exactly what in his hockey life?
by Fehr and Balanced on Jun 30, 2009 9:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Wait till he goes to Edmonton for the first time. Wanna see that reception.
Nice pickup, Wpg.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 9:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Can we now PLEASE collectively move along? Unless of course Bertuzzi gets a 2-year $12M deal in TO.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Eddie is attempting a comeback. Berto’s been doing that for four years.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 9:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Hopefully Eddie is in shape in turn to face Hasek in his 2010 Olympic comeback!
by Fehr and Balanced on Jun 30, 2009 9:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Cammalleri is leading in a landslide on the previous poll.
And the rat thing is my mission in life. Get it on the shoulder. NOW.
Only if it’s a respectable replacement. Otherwise, keep it as is.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions
i voted yes on the rat, as long as it looks nothing like that dumb rat they have on scoreboards in the arena trying to pump up the crowd.
I’m talkin’ a mean rat here, people. Nothing Disney.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I wonder if Olli and J-Bo will be road roomies…
Bo + Phaneuf + Olli + Iginla = $$$ wow… wonder if they’ll be able to put a full 20 man roster on the ice all 82 games… they didn’t last year, lol.
Anyhoo, I’m not expecting much action from the Panthers in free agency, beyond resignings at least. Of course, if for whatever reason they can’t get anyone re-signed, they’d kinda have to look elsewhere. right? i mean that just makes sense, but you never know with this franchise. should be an interesting 24 hours.
normally, i wouldn’t threadjack, but if you wander over to my site you might get some entertainment on my post about Calgary playing with a 16 man roster.
Anyway, the last thing I’m going to say about Jay Bo, is I will laugh hysterically if the Flames replicate this year next season, by getting beat in the first round because they have zero offensive punch beyond their first line.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Turned down their money, I would guess.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions
bored
Will Heatley waive his NTC and go to the Oilslick?
Not if he has a choice in the matter.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 10:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Insane. You really – REALLY – can’t write this stuff.
by Donny Rivette on Jun 30, 2009 11:51 PM EDT up reply actions
NHL.com is now reporting it.
Although they are quoting Sportsnet & TSN. You’d think the NHL would be privy to this without those sources.
For more hockey news; www.illegalcurve.com
Done deal. This one’s a lock. * Boy do I have to book a flight to the Med *
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions
battle for alberta
Wow my pals in Cowtown a bit too full of themselves today!
It’s done. Bouw is now officially a Flame. Good for him. So special.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:07 AM EDT up reply actions
When is the 1st game between Cgy & Edm?
Should be a good tilt.
For more hockey news; www.illegalcurve.com
Just read same thing on RDS
Heatley ne veut pas passer aux Oilers - which in English says…..No way jose Edmonton.
For more hockey news; www.illegalcurve.com
…right up until the second week of October.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:49 AM EDT up reply actions
“Didn’t waive”? Not following. But I want to!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:50 AM EDT up reply actions
And the silence out of the Billboard is deafening.
Why isn’t Booth signed already – get it done. I do appreciate what they had to do with Eminger, getting burned by arbitration would’ve been bad.
And their blog/press release is fairly vague, no mention of some of the 2 UFA they should pursue – ie Cammelleri, Tanguay.
They really need to make a splash, right now its just a drip.
still waiting to hear david booth and 5 years and millions in the same sentence…..
just wondering, any of you guys go on the miami herald or sun sentinel sites and read their panthers blogs?? its amazing how much bashing the people on there do, as well as the writers. dave hyde’s the latest, making fun of this new endeavor with Rosenhaus. While it might be a little strange, i give the team credit for being creative and unique and trying to do what it can to win over a very fickle and apathetic sports market. granted, bringing in a goal-scorer would create the same buzz. just wanted to see what you guys, who don’t seem to be as hard on the team as others, had to say about that. it really makes me angry sometimes. hopefully today there will be something news-worthy to talk about and not just more rumors..
Creative marketing is fine. If it actually results in my season ticket price dropping its even better.
But marketing does not replace getting appropriate talent. This team has been through so much good talent during its history and much of it was lost without capitalizing on it.
I’d rather see them sign 1 great player and a few good ones to round out this team and get it performing.
All the marketing in the world cannot replace performance. Whatever the marketing department tells you contradicting this is flat out wrong.
absolutely agree. and i think it is supposed to lower your ticket price. i can’t complain, i am not a ticket holder as i dont live close enough to go to the games, yet. but you’re absolutely right, put a winning product out and us south floridians will flock to it…even without the creative marketing schemes.
I’m getting nervous too. I’m relatively new to (NHL anyway) hockey. Not sure I can go through this angst every year. If Booth wants to stay long-term, and Andy would take a sensible offer.. Whazzup?!
Wait until about 3 pm. You’ll be mummified.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Quiet day so far. I guess Gomez moving is the big news so far. I think it’s funny, but Gainey could have had his underperforming center who was actually from Quebec if he would have called Holmgren. The guy obviously was not thinking straight last night.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 11:04 AM EDT reply actions
Gainey’s not been himself for a while now. At least he got his draft pick who’s local…the fans are loving him
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions
Justin Duberman (Andy’s agent):
“The Panthers have his rights until noon tommorrow and the Panthers have until noon to make an offer, if they want him back, that’s agreeable to Craig, and at this point it hasn’t happened. We had a few conversations today. Both were brief. The Panthers did in fact make an offer. It wasn’t agreeable by us. If they want to readjust it, they can. If not, come noon tommorrow we’ll start talking to other teams.”
Stiff.
they had to do it. Reasonable contracts, I suppose.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions
the biggest problem I am having with this Rosenhaus stuff, is the timing. It is obviously a cover up for what I am going to assume to be lack of action in free agency, and potentially losing some key current players as well.
was just thinking the same thing, milhouse…poor timing. although the two are different aspects of the team, the whole front office should be focused on the events of today and getting Booth and Leopold signed! yormark really has no say in that, and its all his doing with rosenhaus, so hopefully its not involving deboer and sexton too much.
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Y’know, I had been thinking something along those lines as well. I am in fear that Reinprecht is going to be our big signing and that’s all until they go overseas.
I get the impression he doesn’t want to be there anyway. Remember when he was “sorta” traded to the Cats at the deadline?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Wonder if he’d want to be here. Not for that sort of money, of course, but I wouldn’t mind seeing Neil wearing the palm tree/hockey stick on his shoulder.
Hmm hope something more exciting happens. Like so many others, I’ll miss Andy If he doesn’t sign. Becauuse of his goalie skills… definitely not because of his ADD/ ogling thing. That’s disturbing no matter who it comes from.
That’s why he’s a perfect fit for the fishsticks
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Panthers are promoting a player tracker at their site:
http://panthers.nhl.com/transactions/PlayerTracker09.htm
Lets see some Cat negotiation and signing action today!
Anyone else have that sinking feeling in their stomachs that the Panthers are just going to re-sign a couple guys (Dvorak\Skrastins) and then just sit back and watch?
I really believe they’ll get someone of substance. Unless they have hella-faith in Frolik, Repik, Matthias, Ellerby.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions
i never was expecting much from us today. so i can’t say just resigning booth, skrastins, leopold and dvorak will be a letdown. it will actually be far from it.
someone please help me with this RFA status…if we don’t sign Booth by ten minutes, does that mean he’s a goner? we can match any other teams offer, but can’t he take which one he chooses?
He can sign a sheet but the Cats have the right to match anything at whatever price. Dangerous stuff cuz it can blow your whole salary structure out of whack by overpayin a guy
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
If they hadn’t offered that “qualifying offer” by the deadline Monday (which they did), he would have been an unrestricted free agent in about 4 minutes. Still not sure why it’s taking so long to get a deal done.
Guess they could wait all day before announcing. Some crazy strategy?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
This year its been very last minute with almost every deal. No team has acted decisively in getting their players signed.
As always, a pleasure to be here, W4E. Let’s hope there’s some action today so we get something to talk about.
im feeling the same way….hope we’re not just talking about potentials….
the thing that bothers me the most about our lack agressiveness in free agency is the fact that even the Lightning will probably make a splash…theres talks of them going after a BIG defensemen, an obvious need…yet nothing from the BAC.
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Roloson on the market
Edmonton looks like they might need a starting goaltender… think Andy might get a call from the Oil?
Isn’t he just short of his 53rd birthday?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Boy it stinks I have to be at work & this is the only time I can really check to see what is going on, until I get home from work, but I have errands to do right afterwards….sigh :-/
TSN says 7 years..3.75 million per….nuts!
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Twitter (which will crash in mere moments) and TSN’s Dreger blog:
http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=283416
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions
the hawks endeared themselves to me greatly this year…i guess you could say they’re my Western team? hossa there would be scary.
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
That should about wrap it up for Havlat, then
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
i feel like that’s questionable. he did get WRECKED.
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
good to hear…hopefully he can turn our guys into pros knowing what it takes from his experience
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Kewl. Sportsnet’s got nuthin…now on ESPN…I’ll shadow LeBrun and Burnside. Yes, I abhor the WWL, but these two are top notch
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
thankfully all these updates aren’t about guys I want in Florida….except Hossa, but we knew that was a loooooooooooooooooooooooooooong shot.
Can’t imagine there was THAT much interest in Dvo. Could be wrong, I guess. What is the deal with pels anyway?
Can’t be too long before we find out. His name will pop up somewhere
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Didn’t they just make a big deal with Mike Smith a couple summers ago? Wasn’t he supposed to be the savior in net in Tampa?
They’ve had six saviours in that time. Who can keep up? I believe you’re right.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
you are. my good friend is a Bolt’s fan and swears that Smith is good enough to get them to the playoffs…guess Kroules doesn’t feel the same.
in other news, Marlins Stadium IS NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by alterego6487 on Jul 1, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Apparently the Lightning backup Ramo surprised the Bolts by bolting… for Russia, so they needed a #2. Conklin is as good a backup as you can probably get. I wouldn’t have minded seeing florida make an offer to Conklin.
We may have…nothing concrete on the Bolts yet
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Smith is definitely a legit goalie and tampa’s starter. He’s one of those amazing goalies on a really bad team.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Where are you reading this stuff? Argh, I refuse to believe I don’t have the most up to date links! lol
I’m only using reputable names off of twitter. I know and agree on links – I sometimes over-do it – but things are flying so fast I’d never keep up
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Anything confirmed we’ll post in the title bar of the comments
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions
No problem with him. Got a bum rap in TO. Not his fault.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Actually I guess it is. Somewhere, Bertuzzi cries in the night
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions
And now for something completely different… great match going on in Wimbledon quarterfinal, Roddick v. Hewitt, making it hard to focus on al these rumors… 1 set a piece, 5-5 in the 3rd.
That Roddick’s pretty good, eh?
Got nothing on Bill Kurtis
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions
following Roddick on twitter has ruined Wimbledon due to tape delays…he always tweets what happens in his matches….Hanley Ramirez with two more RBI today, 10 straight games with an RBI…What A STUD…..he certainly knows how to score, give him a hockey stick! hahahahhaha
Roddick match is live now. I’ve given up trying to avoid any news to watch tape delayed events. It’s pointless.
tried to do that with the Panthers games in the end of the year….hard to manage not seeing that bottom line rollin on ESPN
I’d be a lot happier seeing that Horton\Weiss\Booth line 2nd, and sitting the Tarnaskys and Krepses more often then not… I’m all for gritty checking lines… but come on…
nothing unfortunately….i guess nobody has money to burn this year.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
The deals that have gone down are a LOT lower than I imagined.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Offers and rumors are flying. Teams are trying to go low, players think they deserve more, so no big moves as of yet realy. Blame it on the economy.
I was musing about installing a portable toilet at my desk
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Adrien Dater reporting it, so I’ll believe it
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Hey Guys
taking a break from work to say hey!! Did we sign Hossa and the Sedins yet????
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......we signed Joe Sakic? Seriously?
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lol.....well thanks for that. Got my hopes up.
have we signed anybody?
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NICE!!!!!!!!
I REALLY wanted to keep D-vo…..any news on Peltz?
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Just read the Canucks re-sighed the Sedins for 5 years
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nah....not sure he is the 'locker room leader' yet. Hopefully soon tho
But that does raise a good question….who DOES end up getting the C, if anyone?
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WOW. IT WORKED!!!!!!!!!! just got back from the shower, and come back and lo and behold….heres what we’ve been waiting for. six year deal exactly what i wanted to see. and looks as though Anderson is gone….where do we turn and can we put the TVo to _ talks away yet?
Gotta replace Andy if that COL deal is true
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions
do we have anybody good enough to call up at goal....dont think so
Beckford-Tseu would be top choice, which means we’ll likely bring in someone
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Was I under a rock or something....we signed Reinprecht?
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wow, i feel like a jackass for missing that!!
shows you how much people care about hockey in the south florida radio business…..nobody said anythign @ work
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yeah i think for an hour on saturday mornigns they put Moller on
during hockey season….of course
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So where do we turn for the G2 spot? Do we try to get one of those Colorado goalies now sans job? or do we hope\pray Vokoun stays healthy and just use Beckford-Tseu or Plante until Markstrom is ready next season?
Forget our boys in the minors. Not near up to it.
Clemmy, baby!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
how is he available? thought he was Marty's replacement
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well if GOLIDE says it....
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Behold the Twitter ravings of a lunatic:
Eklund: Hossa is a Hawk as is being speculated, then Huet has been dealt.
Did you get the day off from work for this D? :o)
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Worked the a.m.
Can you imagine a world where I’d miss this?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions
can I....? Yes. Do I like it....Noooooo way.
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There may be more ppl in this live chat then at the Marlins game right now....lol
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Can’t follow. I’ve texted(?) but nothing back yet
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions
next step....litter box mobile
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Man…you’re right…but I’m not getting younger!!!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions
so i read in the billion e-mails we get
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12 years.....? who he is, gretzky?
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so that basically means that Chicago ain’t winning a cup in the next decade.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
no but they'll win the West like 8 of those 12 years
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Gonna have to re-sign Kane and Toews at some point
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions
They should be announcing the signing of Chris Chelios to an 8-year deal any moment in Chi Town
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions
I get absolutley no cell phone service here....
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Roddick is the one that looks like Stiffler, right? :o)
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He is getting paid handsomely to do that.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Look at us…we’re hoping the starter makes us forget about the backup. Only in Florida.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
way to put it into perspective....
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now THATS wishful thinking
alltho maybe with a team that scores more then 3 gpg….
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I cant honestly think that is a possibility....
its too good of a move for it to happen. Unless Randy REALLY wants to make a splash.
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I thought the Flyers may sign him, they are playing the winter classic next year after all.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
the only thing i can take from Anderson leaving is that i’m wondering what the panthers offered and if it was ever even discussed for him to be the #1 here. we all speculated that with TVo trtades and what not but that’s all it probably was…speculation from the fans.
the way goalies are going today, i expect our backup to be signed today unless he’s coming from our system…PLEASE no.
He’s NOT coming from our system. I’ll eat my hats if it goes that way.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Avs got him for $900 bones. I’m blown away.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s a great raise from the 550 he was making, but still…
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
TSN says Andy 2 years $3.6 mil
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thought it was 1.8 total…uh oh…get back to ya
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Suuuuuure.
Might be an internal battle between Skras and Leo
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions
WELL I HOPE WE’RE TALKING TO SOMEONE’S AGENTS!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Dwayne Roloson to the Islanders
wow… I guess DiPietro and his 15 year contract isn’t so much of a sure thing right now… Roloson to be Di’s backup?
It’s an Eklund, so I won’t bother until confirmed
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
i started my….should i sasy obsession?….with Eklund’s site and have now learned its a complete waste of time. you all have confirmed that, and i’ve started to see with all of the stuff he reported about JayBo for Lupul and Phaneuf and practically everyone. thank you.
Jokinen to Calgary! E5!
That was four years ago.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Nothing since the original post a few minutes ago. Eklund and all.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
who....?
I just realized, earlier when i was ‘spacing’ about Reinprecht, i knew we signed him. I thought we were talking about Leopold…who still hasnt signed.
durrr
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Here's a fun question;
As of now, with the moves we know about, are the top 4 in the West better then any in the East? We know Detroit’s going to be there, Calgary is stocked, San Jose was the top seed last season, and Chicago is better then the team that made the conference finals. The east has… Pittsburgh? Maybe Philly\Washington? Scary…
espn runs an “ultimate standings” of all 4 major leagues teams…1-122 and the Panthers come in at 90. but surprisingly they had some good things to say. “What glimmer they do have is in the guidance of rookie bench boss Peter DeBoer. After 13 years of dues-paying as an OHL boss (he was twice Coach of the Year), DeBoer, nicknamed PDB on fan forums, installed an aggressive, push-the-puck style that got the most out of a young squad. Five of the top six scorers are 26 or younger. Aggressive marketing reaped some benefits as well. The Panthers Total Ticket package includes game, a combo meal and a $5 gas card for as little as $17. Even better is the policy that grants first-time fans admittance for free. You can never invest in good karma too early.”
Anybody got anything on Gaborik?
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Sad Panda? He’s a helluva player but breaks too easily for me.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions
he played 81 games last year! He got a new conditioning coach.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions
First time ever. Gotta admit…that’s a terrible history behind him.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions
&&)(&()&() damn it. Homer should have given him his 2nd year.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Could bite the Caps in that second year, but I doubt it.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Good signing by the Caps. Bad news for us… Are we going to upgrade at forward? Yes, it’s good we re-signed Booth. I’m meh about Dvorak, but that’s just me. Reinprecht is another borderline top 6 guy. Can we PLEASE upgrade the forward position? Is it even possible?
so do I. the guy historically scores 20. He’s an ironman. If he’s on the wing with AO, I shudder to think about what kind of damage they might do. Maybe I’m overreacting a bit, but still.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I am of course, speaking about on the RW with AO on the left and Backstrom in the middle.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Side note...
Has anyone read Yormark’s twitter? Is it real? Its embarassing to think this is the owner of our team…
Think you meant to say “president”.
I like the campaign, as long as there’s an end-game to it. Curious to see where it goes.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions
I know I sound like a suck-up, but give him one more chance. I like the direction. Certainly understand the animosity, but we can all admit they’re turning the corner
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
New Promotion: Every time the Panthers pass on a key UFA, season ticket holders get $2 off their ticket price!
So right now, season ticket holders would enjoy about $14 off each game!
Seriously, I stand by my original thought that they would pursue someone big
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree and the 2 main ones, Cammelleri and Tanguay, are still out there – rumors or not. Just having some fun with the process.
On a lighter note...
The Box will hit 70,000 hits tonight.
Big huge fat thanks to each of you. Wiouldn’t be the same without you.
Since December…not just today! We’re not Puck Daddy yet!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions
How freaking reasonable is that? What has happened here? The GM’s make a pact with the union?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Booth likes it down here....
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ah yes, the Crown Jewel in the Auld/Allen-Krajicek/goalie trade
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starting to think things are dying down at the BAC. starting to think we’re not signing Leopold or Skrastins…that’s a mistake. the day is young…
Eklund says Heatley negotiations will “go late”, so don’t give up yet!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
dont know if Anthropov would be a good fit down here
with the fast pace style of PdB
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He had no trouble keeping up with Hal Gill. What’s the concern?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions
There is simply no way...
…we end the day with “only” Booth and D-Vo. Not to mention the loss of Andy. That still a rumor? ;)
Luongo to Panthers
for Vokoun, Mini Stanley and a player to be named later
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rumor says Panthers In-Arena host Randy Ross may also be part of the package
as the Cats are focusing on the ‘on ice’ product more then the crappy in arena entertainment
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Just saw a VERY low-level Tanguay-to-FLA tweet.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
new ownership is cutting mini-stanley. haven’t you heard? just another victim of the recession.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I guess backup goalies are a premium today.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m seeing it too. BTW: Robert Esche’s younger brother was on my best friend’s boat this weekend. Whatever.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Missed the ride by 10 minutes. Damned work.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I know/knew Esche
used to see him all the time when i was living in South Jersey. He’d hook me up with Flyers-Panthers tickets. :o)
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What’s with that? My other bestest friend was on a cruise with Esche’s cousin or sister a year ago. Bizarre.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions
very good guy...shame he never made it
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well, shame he lost it
playing for team USA was prolly the high point
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Panthers To Do List:
Sign Jordan Leopold
Sign a major upgrade
Find a backup goalie
Add to this list…
yes....gotta reup Skras, so underrated
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This kinda blows. Our last roundtable until training camp and the league fails to show.
There are a lot of big-name doods waiting for jobs…this can’t be over.
I think its the lack of “letting the players jump into a pile of money” thats slowing things down.
Although the Spacek rumored deal, 3 yrs – 11.5mil, lets him jump into a swimming pool full of cash – Scrooge McDuck style.
mentions of reports of calgary radio saying we’re talking/signing tanguay on frozen pond readers are commenting on..any follow up, or just more bull*#$!
You saw it too. That’s what I’m trying to track down.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
that would be a great signing for us...
gritty hard nosed scoring type
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its been too quiet for too long
I’m also looking for Tanguay to Cats, just seeing that it was rumored on Calgary radio
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same place that broke the Bo deal, no?
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I love your optimism, but reastically I think we'd be happy with 1 of those.
Cammy?
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We WANT a scoring forward. We NEED a backup goaltender.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions
ok thats what i was guessing
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He big-time. Just please no Mike Comrie.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions
im still tingling about the potential of bringing in tanguay
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tried writing on the blog on TSN’s free agent frenzy thing…it didn’t go through, asking about Tanguay and proving to those up north that there are people that care
Just did the same on Twitter. We’ll get something.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s gonna be awfully tired of microphones by the time summer ends.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions
From BD Gallof (covers the Isles)
BDGallof Karl Malden dead. Bob Gainey signs him for 4 years at $20 million. It must be Free Agent Frenzy
He and Steve X must be jonesin’ for anything.
It’s coming. It’s coming.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I just texted GR....we'll see what he says
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From Yormark:
PanthersYormark On delta trying to get back to south florida. Delayed three hours. On the runway. I knew I should not have flown delta!!!!
Wow, that was cheap! Now we find out if it was just the NJ system.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions
At 3 years, he’s obviously the stopgap between T-Vo and Markstrom.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not lining up to buy tickets yet….Cammy, Tanguay, Havlat?
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions
They’re out there. Amazingly. Got to be the money.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions
How about that....B/C of you guys I got to break that to GR!
He said the Panthers were in ‘lockdown’ mode….and then this broke!
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Tanguay! Tanguay! Tanguay!
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According to their contract with the city, only if they attract more than 14,000 per game.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions
He plays his baguettes off, T-Vo’s in trouble.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions
just got this IM from a thrasher fan about Clemmenson
“in NHL 10 his rebound control would probably be at a 0”
Which is still 5 points better than Kari Lehtonen.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions
w2g....i held back from the Kari-bomb.
way to pick me up D
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We'll take down Phillips Arena together
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her rebuttal
“anyone who thinks that scott clemmensen is better than kari lehtonen needs to have their fanship revoked, and thrown stones at "
with a stanley cup ring. Don’t underestimate the value of the ring. Speaking of that, I thought Scuderi would have been signed by now, especially with the run on goaltenders.
by HockeyOutsiders on Jul 1, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Prepping to birth egg rolls. Quite bizarre how quiet it’s been. Not to mention the tightening of the belts, financially.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
2007 was the benchmark. B-listers given money you wouldn’t believe.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I think they may split time...
Both are good, and if either is hot or cold you know PdB wont mind switching it up
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That Keenan stuff pisses me off, but that’s his style. Have yet to see it work.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Good pick up for you guys. Gives you a lot of options with Vokoun now and you didn’t do any real damage to your cap situation. Raise your hand if you wish Sexton got the reigns to the franchise before either of the last 2 GMs!!
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Ooooooh yeah.
Sweet deal on Knuble! Rocked it!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I am pretty pumped about that. He was the only FA I wanted the Caps to pursue. We need a 2C still but I think that hole can only be filled on the trade market.
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions
We were in the same boat…nothing on the farm.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh and I slept in but I was happy to see my man David Booth get a nice new deal when I woke up!
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Finally made it...
Ok day, so far. Good call on Clemmenson. And I’m thrilled about 6 years on Booth.
So do you guys want to see Leopold resigned or use the money elsewhere?
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:20 PM EDT reply actions
Eklund-here comes Montreal's move...Watch Cammalleri
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Cammy to the Habs…right you are.
Where’s the money coming from?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Gaborik. Forgot all about him. Don’t want him.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions
If that punk took one second away from FLA working more significant pieces I’ll gnaw my elbow off. And be quite angry.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Even if he speaks ZERO English he has to give better interviews, right?
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:37 PM EDT up reply actions
speaking of bad interviews, I always hated Jokinen interviews… but for some reason always liked the Nik Hagman ones
Ilya Bryzgalov gives great interview. “It’s Hockey, why you have to be so mad?”
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Why? Cuz Joks came across as Darth Maul’s lighter, less-commanding brother?
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Yikes
I have to make a quick trip back to work and miss so much! So this Koistenenenen guy is our #4 defenceman, and Clemmensen is our backup. Hm…
He’s gonna looooooove playing the trap.
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Well in that light he looks better. At least Cammy steps on the ice most nights.
by Fehr and Balanced on Jul 1, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions
So Whale,
gotta think you were pretty happy seeing Clemmensen coming to Florida, as you were hoping?
Pretty much. I just have a hunch that overall he’s a better goaltender than Andy. No offense to him, but I’ve liked this dood since early in the season.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions
He might be better than Andy, but I don’t know if that’s a good thing. Excerpt from my post on Cat Scratch
“Add to the fact that Clemmensen will no doubt be given a chance to earn the #1 spot, as Anderson was last season. “Play the winning hand,” I believe is how Pete DeBoer phrased it. So what happens if Clemmensen continues where he left off last season? We have a $6 million man as a backup, with a no-trade clause?"
I just don’t like having 7 and a half mil in 2 goalies. plus Markstrom coming over next year. That said, it was a need and it’s filled, so good job on that, Sexton.
If Clemmy plays his ass off, Vokoun is trade bait at next year’s deadline. Only got two years left anyway from right now. His stock will never be higher.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Still time, unless he signs elsewhere. No “deadline” this time around.
It’s not over, people!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Ridiculous that no one has pulled the plug. All about the perfect contract – team-wise.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions
A rep from the Cats just called me to discuss “next season”. He was sorry he didn’t run into me at the draft party.
Trying to sell me tickets. Already got Roland on my side. Poor newbie must’ve drawn my name by chance.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Wonderful timing, as I’m waiting for them to nail home a big fish.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Gotta head to work folks...I'll re-join the chat in a bit
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Better hear some Panthers goodness at 790 tonight…kind of a big day!
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Still waiting for his triumphant proclamation.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s not sayuing, of course. Might get a few more subscriptions under his belt.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions
The latest
Eklund I wish I wish i wish I could…no details yet allowed…sorry. not worth losing a source over.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions
hahahahha too funny, but there’s no way the Panther’s could be in on something that big…just not our style.
Not his either. No truth to it. He’s waiting for someone else to confirm/ Like TSN. Or Sportsnet. Or Sesame Street.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions
why haven’t we heard much of nik antropov’s name today? not necessarily from the Panther’s view, just at all….
Along with three dozen others. Weird-o-rama day. Haven’t seen it like this ever.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions
From the Panthers news release:
Assistant GM Randy Sexton said Wednesday evening the Panthers were still talking to unrestricted defensemen, including Karlis Skrastins.
Sexton described the team’s chances of "remote" to sign defenseman Jordan Leopold, whose rights were acquired from Calgary in a trade last week involving Jay Bouwmeester. He also added the Panthers had filed notice with the league they would buy out the contract of forward Brett McLean.
McLean? Whatever’s left on his salary. Only one year, and I’m too burnt to look it up.
If they buy him out, they’re on the hook for – help me – 2/3rds, to be paid to him. But the cap hit remains at the contracted rate.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:16 PM EDT up reply actions
they space the buyout at a fraction of the price over so many years I thought. Even though we pay him up front, the cap takes a hit at =Salary/x amount of years against the cap… or something like that.
No matter…the cap hit remains, unless he’s deemed a long long long-term injury recipient. And even Sweet Lou can get around that.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:19 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s minor, in any case. Not a problem.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Panthers Facebook Nonsense
The Florida Panthers Cats one of the busiest teams on the first day of free agency, signing/resigning four players to help fill out their roster.
just dropped in to say hi, will check back in later when things get settled over here
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An absolute embarrassment. See his accuracy rate? 3% over four years.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry sorry sorry…over 18 months. Either way, a joke.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:25 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s a lot of Jokinen to _________ (e2).
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 7:26 PM EDT up reply actions
i found the TSN CANADA feed streaming online for those who wanna keep up with free agency
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/TML-Live
From Steve Gorten...
“Sexton: Panthers not after big-name free agent forward”
“Sexton said, “I’m not sure you ever have enough scoring, but we’re real comfortable with our top three lines. Our top six of Booth, Weiss, Frolik, Stillman, Reinprecht, Horton, we think those guys can score. …We’re very comfortable offensively with those top six. I don’t know that you can ever have enough, but I don’t think it is the issue it was last year, at least in some people’s minds.”"
Really? Reeeeeaaaaally? Sigh… again
Another quote from Gorten
As for Koistinen, Sexton said he was “right at the top of our list,”…He’s a guy we think has some upside offensively.
Operative word… “think”
This is not turning out pretty
They all say “right at the top of our list”
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions
This team really doesn’t have much going for it right now. The Panthers won’t make a splash with the UFA’s left and will probably wait for a week or two to pick up the leftovers to really “fill out the roster”. J-Bo is gone and Vokoun will be in two. Then we will have the up and coming of Markstrom, Frolik, “Kuli”, Ellerby, Matthias, and whatever top five pick we get next year. Then if Booth, Horton and Weiss are still playing this team might make the playoffs…
09-10 line-ip
Booth-Weiss-Horton
Frolik-Reinpricht- Stillman
Olesz-Campbell- DVo (The OCD line?)
Kreps-Tarnasky-Matthias
Funny too how Sexton didnt even mention Olesz and his 3.15mil/year. How easily he has been forgetten.
He never sinks. Someone’s floating him.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Go eat dinner and take a nap and not much has happened overall.
Same players still in play, not necessarily a bad thing, but the Sexton quote really gets me. The team needs a spark, something to grab interest for the fans – we get rebuilding. Again.
Sexton’s doing his thing. I’m onboard. I welcome dissenting opinions, of course, but I like the direction the organization is taking.
The guy got killed (and I was one assassin) for the Daigle debacle in Ottawa. He’s repairing that.
by Donny Rivette on Jul 1, 2009 10:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m still out on him.
The Panthers are still down a lot of pieces, they really aren’t back to where they left off last season overall. I’m extremely tired of the rebuilding phase this team seems to be stuck in, make the moves, get out of it and move forward.
Be decisive, you have the cap space and either ownership group needs to make the investment to get who is necessary to take this team to the next step. Yet another year of excuses on the horizon? I hope not.

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