Haven't done this in a few years, but we'll give a whirl and try to update it somewhat regularly.
I've tried -- using Google, Hockey DB, and social media -- to compile a list of former UMD Bulldogs playing professional hockey anywhere in the world.
Find the Google doc here.
If you have info on a player not listed but who is playing pro hockey this year, please comment, email me, or tweet me and I'll make sure I get the relevant details.
I know a few guys who have been playing pro are missing, so hopefully someone can help clue us in.
Showing posts with label former bulldogs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label former bulldogs. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Saturday Hockey Notes and Thoughts: UMD Holds On, Hits .500; Aaron Crandall Stands Tall in Net
OMAHA, Neb. -- I try to avoid hyperbole. I really hate when people throw out superlatives in describing every-day events.
UMD won a one-game game here Friday night, beating Nebraska Omaha 3-2. In doing so, the Bulldogs got outstanding and timely goaltending from senior Aaron Crandall, who made 38 saves.
During the postgame show, I said it might very well have been the best I've ever seen Crandall play. And while sometimes I end up having to take back stupid things I say on the air, this won't be one of those instances.
Meant. Every. Word. Of. It.
The Bulldogs didn't start badly in this game, but it was clear that they weren't as sharp as the opposition. UMD played with good energy and jump, I thought, but just didn't look crisp. Passes would miss and guys seemed a little unsure of themselves at times.
An early five-on-three came up empty, and not surprisingly. That early in the first real game off break, nothing was really working. I thought UMD looked a bit stagnant during the two-man advantage, which UNO killed off without a real scoring threat coming UMD's way. UMD's power play looked much better in the second period, however, and the game's first goal came seven seconds after it ended.
Alex Iafallo and Dominic Toninato combined for the first two goals, with Toninato tipping a long Iafallo shot for the first, then the pair setting up Adam Krause in the high slot for the second late in the middle stanza.
The second period featured some strong up-and-down action, but was more in line with how I feel UMD should play. UNO played with pace, but the Bulldogs blocked shots and were smart in their own zone. They weren't as good in the third period. UNO had chances, and the Mavericks were allowed to use too much speed. Josh Archibald was key here. The Mavs' leading scorer was held off the board Friday, but it wasn't from a lack of trying or a lack of opportunity. Archibald led the team with nine shots on goal and had at least three tremendous opportunities that Crandall stopped. He's an incredible high-end talent, and it's hard to imagine UMD keeping him quiet again.
The onus is on the Bulldogs to get more traffic in front of whichever goalie UNO starts Saturday and find a way to play more on their toes in the third period if they have a lead. Ryan Massa was solid on Saturday, but he had a clear path to too many shots. UNO blocked 16 shots, many of them early in the game.
UMD got back to blocking shots, too (21 in the game). That was a point of emphasis and will remain so. The Mavericks will shoot from anywhere, so it isn't surprising they got 40 on goal when UMD blocked over 20 as well. Expect more of that on Saturday. UNO's coaches can't be too upset with how their team played. There were plenty of big-time scoring chances, but Crandall was in good position and tracked the puck through traffic very well.
UMD needs a little more out of its top line. Tony Cameranesi, Justin Crandall, and Kyle Osterberg didn't create a ton of good chances Friday. That said, Osterberg had five shots on goal, the line combined for eight, and Cameranesi won the faceoff that set up Andy Welinski's one-time shot for the eventual game-winning goal (Welinski's first career GWG, by the way). That I believe they can get to another level is a testament to their skill and chemistry.
Cal Decowski's line with Charlie Sampair and Sammy Spurrell turned in some outstanding shifts again. A good example of their smarts came during the third period, when Spurrell got trapped on the ice for a long shift. UMD iced the puck and he couldn't get off. Instead of panicking, he kept things simple, blocked a shot, and was able to get off the ice. That's a good example for young players, who tend to lose their head when trapped on the ice for a long time. When you're tired, it's time to play a simpler game and not try to do too much. Instead, players tend to overextend themselves, and that's how critical mistakes are made.
During Saturday's broadcast, by the way, you'll be able to hear Decowski (who talks faster than he plays) chat about his line and their chemistry. It's as good a "fourth line" as you'll find anywhere.
By the way, I'm betting Crandall starts again in goal. Just a hunch.
Congratulations to former UMD goalie and national champion Kenny Reiter, who signed his first NHL contract Friday. He inked a two-way deal with the New York Islanders for the rest of the 2013-14 season. The contract doesn't guarantee Reiter will play in the NHL. Instead, the Islanders -- ravaged by injury between the pipes -- pick up another option for the NHL roster should it be necessary.
When Reiter came here, he wasn't guaranteed a dadgum thing. Through hard work and a ton of heart, he earned the starting job here over a more highly-touted goalie. That goalie chose to transfer and try to get a fresh start elsewhere, and Reiter ended up holding on to the job for about a season and a half, winning 52 games, including 23 in his senior season. He was the man during the 2011 NCAA Tournament, too, leading UMD to the title.
There aren't many better people in this sport than Kenny Reiter. He's a class act, and I hope to see a press release about him getting called up before this season is over.
As far as "good dudes" go who have left UMD and made it to the NHL, the only comparison I can think of is Jason Garrison. His story is similar, too, so it's cool to see Kenny get this opportunity.
The other NCHC action on Friday ...
Western Michigan scored three in the third period. Two of them were short-handed, including the winner from Nolan Laporte with eight seconds left, as the Broncos beat Miami 5-4 in Kalamazoo. The loss drops the consensus preseason favorite RedHawks to eighth place in the eight-team NCHC.
North Dakota got two Michael Parks goals in a 5-3 home win over Colorado College. The Tigers are 2-14-3 overall, but still a point ahead of Miami, thanks to an extra game played and a shootout win.
St. Cloud State continued its strong play with a 6-3 win at Denver. Jonny Brodzinski scored twice, and David Morley had three points.
UMD won a one-game game here Friday night, beating Nebraska Omaha 3-2. In doing so, the Bulldogs got outstanding and timely goaltending from senior Aaron Crandall, who made 38 saves.
During the postgame show, I said it might very well have been the best I've ever seen Crandall play. And while sometimes I end up having to take back stupid things I say on the air, this won't be one of those instances.
Meant. Every. Word. Of. It.
The Bulldogs didn't start badly in this game, but it was clear that they weren't as sharp as the opposition. UMD played with good energy and jump, I thought, but just didn't look crisp. Passes would miss and guys seemed a little unsure of themselves at times.
An early five-on-three came up empty, and not surprisingly. That early in the first real game off break, nothing was really working. I thought UMD looked a bit stagnant during the two-man advantage, which UNO killed off without a real scoring threat coming UMD's way. UMD's power play looked much better in the second period, however, and the game's first goal came seven seconds after it ended.
Alex Iafallo and Dominic Toninato combined for the first two goals, with Toninato tipping a long Iafallo shot for the first, then the pair setting up Adam Krause in the high slot for the second late in the middle stanza.
The second period featured some strong up-and-down action, but was more in line with how I feel UMD should play. UNO played with pace, but the Bulldogs blocked shots and were smart in their own zone. They weren't as good in the third period. UNO had chances, and the Mavericks were allowed to use too much speed. Josh Archibald was key here. The Mavs' leading scorer was held off the board Friday, but it wasn't from a lack of trying or a lack of opportunity. Archibald led the team with nine shots on goal and had at least three tremendous opportunities that Crandall stopped. He's an incredible high-end talent, and it's hard to imagine UMD keeping him quiet again.
The onus is on the Bulldogs to get more traffic in front of whichever goalie UNO starts Saturday and find a way to play more on their toes in the third period if they have a lead. Ryan Massa was solid on Saturday, but he had a clear path to too many shots. UNO blocked 16 shots, many of them early in the game.
UMD got back to blocking shots, too (21 in the game). That was a point of emphasis and will remain so. The Mavericks will shoot from anywhere, so it isn't surprising they got 40 on goal when UMD blocked over 20 as well. Expect more of that on Saturday. UNO's coaches can't be too upset with how their team played. There were plenty of big-time scoring chances, but Crandall was in good position and tracked the puck through traffic very well.
UMD needs a little more out of its top line. Tony Cameranesi, Justin Crandall, and Kyle Osterberg didn't create a ton of good chances Friday. That said, Osterberg had five shots on goal, the line combined for eight, and Cameranesi won the faceoff that set up Andy Welinski's one-time shot for the eventual game-winning goal (Welinski's first career GWG, by the way). That I believe they can get to another level is a testament to their skill and chemistry.
Cal Decowski's line with Charlie Sampair and Sammy Spurrell turned in some outstanding shifts again. A good example of their smarts came during the third period, when Spurrell got trapped on the ice for a long shift. UMD iced the puck and he couldn't get off. Instead of panicking, he kept things simple, blocked a shot, and was able to get off the ice. That's a good example for young players, who tend to lose their head when trapped on the ice for a long time. When you're tired, it's time to play a simpler game and not try to do too much. Instead, players tend to overextend themselves, and that's how critical mistakes are made.
During Saturday's broadcast, by the way, you'll be able to hear Decowski (who talks faster than he plays) chat about his line and their chemistry. It's as good a "fourth line" as you'll find anywhere.
By the way, I'm betting Crandall starts again in goal. Just a hunch.
******
Congratulations to former UMD goalie and national champion Kenny Reiter, who signed his first NHL contract Friday. He inked a two-way deal with the New York Islanders for the rest of the 2013-14 season. The contract doesn't guarantee Reiter will play in the NHL. Instead, the Islanders -- ravaged by injury between the pipes -- pick up another option for the NHL roster should it be necessary.
When Reiter came here, he wasn't guaranteed a dadgum thing. Through hard work and a ton of heart, he earned the starting job here over a more highly-touted goalie. That goalie chose to transfer and try to get a fresh start elsewhere, and Reiter ended up holding on to the job for about a season and a half, winning 52 games, including 23 in his senior season. He was the man during the 2011 NCAA Tournament, too, leading UMD to the title.
There aren't many better people in this sport than Kenny Reiter. He's a class act, and I hope to see a press release about him getting called up before this season is over.
As far as "good dudes" go who have left UMD and made it to the NHL, the only comparison I can think of is Jason Garrison. His story is similar, too, so it's cool to see Kenny get this opportunity.
******
The other NCHC action on Friday ...
Western Michigan scored three in the third period. Two of them were short-handed, including the winner from Nolan Laporte with eight seconds left, as the Broncos beat Miami 5-4 in Kalamazoo. The loss drops the consensus preseason favorite RedHawks to eighth place in the eight-team NCHC.
North Dakota got two Michael Parks goals in a 5-3 home win over Colorado College. The Tigers are 2-14-3 overall, but still a point ahead of Miami, thanks to an extra game played and a shootout win.
St. Cloud State continued its strong play with a 6-3 win at Denver. Jonny Brodzinski scored twice, and David Morley had three points.
Monday, July 08, 2013
UMD Players Past, Present, and Future at NHL Camps
Summer means a lot of downtime for hockey broadcasters. I've already taken a vacation and spent a lot of time at work watching old WWF YouTube videos working.
For hockey players, it's a good time to get some conditioning work in, as well as seeing where you stack up when it comes time to step to the next level.
A number of current and former UMD players are participating in NHL prospect development camps this month. These events do not affect college eligibility, unless you're Nick Leddy, who wowed the Blackhawks at a summer camp after his so-so freshman year at Minnesota to the point where he got signed practically on the spot.
Some players are at the camp of the team that drafted them. Others are free agents and are hoping to get a look for now or the future.
The list, via the good folks at College Hockey News, is as follows:
Current or future players
Sophomore defenseman Andy Welinski, Anaheim
Freshman forward Alex Iafallo, Buffalo
Senior forward Joe Basaraba, Florida
Freshman defenseman Carson Soucy, Minnesota
Sophomore forward Tony Cameranesi, Toronto
Freshman forward Dominic Toninato, Toronto
Committed (2014) defenseman Blake Heinrich, Washington
Junior forward Caleb Herbert, Washington
Former players
Defenseman Chris Casto, Boston
Goalie Kenny Reiter, NY Islanders
Forward Travis Oleksuk, San Jose
Defenseman Drew Olson, Tampa Bay
Meanwhile, former UMD All American goalie Alex Stalock re-signed with the San Jose Sharks on Friday, as NHL free agency opened. The move came after last season's San Jose backup goalie, Thomas Greiss, inked a deal with Phoenix. Stalock will compete with Harri Sateri to back up Antti Niemi for the Sharks this fall. Indications from reports in San Jose are that Stalock is expected to win this battle and start the season in the NHL. He has appeared in three NHL games over the course of his pro career, but has yet to make a start.
For hockey players, it's a good time to get some conditioning work in, as well as seeing where you stack up when it comes time to step to the next level.
A number of current and former UMD players are participating in NHL prospect development camps this month. These events do not affect college eligibility, unless you're Nick Leddy, who wowed the Blackhawks at a summer camp after his so-so freshman year at Minnesota to the point where he got signed practically on the spot.
Some players are at the camp of the team that drafted them. Others are free agents and are hoping to get a look for now or the future.
The list, via the good folks at College Hockey News, is as follows:
Current or future players
Sophomore defenseman Andy Welinski, Anaheim
Freshman forward Alex Iafallo, Buffalo
Senior forward Joe Basaraba, Florida
Freshman defenseman Carson Soucy, Minnesota
Sophomore forward Tony Cameranesi, Toronto
Freshman forward Dominic Toninato, Toronto
Committed (2014) defenseman Blake Heinrich, Washington
Junior forward Caleb Herbert, Washington
Former players
Defenseman Chris Casto, Boston
Goalie Kenny Reiter, NY Islanders
Forward Travis Oleksuk, San Jose
Defenseman Drew Olson, Tampa Bay
Meanwhile, former UMD All American goalie Alex Stalock re-signed with the San Jose Sharks on Friday, as NHL free agency opened. The move came after last season's San Jose backup goalie, Thomas Greiss, inked a deal with Phoenix. Stalock will compete with Harri Sateri to back up Antti Niemi for the Sharks this fall. Indications from reports in San Jose are that Stalock is expected to win this battle and start the season in the NHL. He has appeared in three NHL games over the course of his pro career, but has yet to make a start.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Random Rabble: July 16
Former Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand penned this week's Monday Morning Quarterback at SI.com, filling in for the incomparable Peter King. LeGrand, who suffered a serious spinal cord injury on a kickoff play in 2010, was signed as a free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this spring. The Bucs are now coached by LeGrand's college coach, Greg Schiano. LeGrand insists he will walk again, and also addresses the issue of player safety on kickoffs. NFL people have at least discussed the idea of removing kickoffs from the sport.
Couldn't agree with LeGrand more. Generally, you'd expect someone like LeGrand -- whose life was forever altered by a chance happening on an admittedly dangerous football play -- to at least be on the fence. Instead, LeGrand acknowledges that what happened to him is not something that happens with any kind of regularity.
He's right. A lot of players can make a career out of special teams, and removing kickoff plays from the game would certainly take some excitement away.
Former UMD star Tim Stapleton signed a deal with Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League last week. Stapleton talked to the Winnipeg Free Press about his decision.
Stapleton did indeed have a good season for Winnipeg, but the lack of interest in an undersized forward pushing 30 is not awfully surprising. I figured a lot of guys would be in the same boat, faced with deciding between an offer to play overseas and the prospect of waiting for the CBA negotiations to play out before getting any serious NHL offers.
I don't know what he's making with Minsk, but it's probably more than he'd make on an NHL deal. With Minsk, Stapleton also has the security of knowing there will be a season, something we can't say in the NHL right now.
Speaking of the ongoing NHL CBA negotiations, if the reports from Friday are at all accurate, we'll be here for a while.
Um.
I tweeted Saturday that the owners should be ashamed of this offer. It's ridiculous. It sends an awfully poor message about where things stand, as well as the chances of the league starting its next season on time.
It's also another sign that ownership wants the players to help save them from themselves. Of course, as we learned in the NBA -- where nearly a third of the season was lost so teams could throw eight-figure salaries at guys like Jeremy Lin -- nothing can save the owners from themselves. They will always find a way to overspend and stretch their resources way too thin.
The only benefit to the players taking this one-sided deal would be getting to watch the owners find a way to keep overspending.
You'll also note in the report that owners want entry-level deals stretched to five years instead of three. Call me crazy, but does anyone else think this would only add to the number of players looking to get away from the teams that drafted them, like Justin Schultz did? You can swallow a three-year commitment to a team you might not want to play for, but five is a ton.
I can see the owners' side on this, because there is a lot of money and time and effort put into the draft, and allowing only three years on the maximum entry-level deal means teams have to spend even more money.
It's totally just a thought, but I'm curious if it is something that could play out. Of course, the CBA negotiation also presents a chance to get rid of the rule that allows drafted players to become free agents, even if the team that drafted the player wants to sign him. If that happens, it doesn't matter what happens to entry-level deals.
Take it from someone who has gotten injured on a kickoff: I think kickoffs in the NFL should return to the way they used to be, because lots of football players can make a career out of playing on special teams, and the new system takes some of the thrill and excitement of the game out.
Couldn't agree with LeGrand more. Generally, you'd expect someone like LeGrand -- whose life was forever altered by a chance happening on an admittedly dangerous football play -- to at least be on the fence. Instead, LeGrand acknowledges that what happened to him is not something that happens with any kind of regularity.
He's right. A lot of players can make a career out of special teams, and removing kickoff plays from the game would certainly take some excitement away.
Former UMD star Tim Stapleton signed a deal with Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League last week. Stapleton talked to the Winnipeg Free Press about his decision.
"It wasn't an easy decision. I even woke up today thinking, 'Man, what did I do?' But it's just something that made sense, especially turning 30 (next week). I've got to look out for life after hockey."
Stapleton posted career highs in goals (11) and points (27) and managed to score three game-winners while working predominantly on the Jets' fourth line.
But with a handful of players/prospects in the system ready to grab his spot, this popular and respected teammate was not atop the priority list of an organization that stressed size as one of its key off-season needs.
"It's too bad. I did everything I possibly could because I wanted to come back but I think their main focus was they wanted to get bigger," said Stapleton.
"I've been dealing with this situation (all) my career as far as getting into the NHL. And then when I get in I'm still dealing with it. I sat down with a lot of people, including my family, and we weighed the pros and cons. I had to look at what is in front of me and all I had was Russia.
"I guess now I get to become a fan now and I'll definitely be following the team and all the guys."
Stapleton did indeed have a good season for Winnipeg, but the lack of interest in an undersized forward pushing 30 is not awfully surprising. I figured a lot of guys would be in the same boat, faced with deciding between an offer to play overseas and the prospect of waiting for the CBA negotiations to play out before getting any serious NHL offers.
I don't know what he's making with Minsk, but it's probably more than he'd make on an NHL deal. With Minsk, Stapleton also has the security of knowing there will be a season, something we can't say in the NHL right now.
Speaking of the ongoing NHL CBA negotiations, if the reports from Friday are at all accurate, we'll be here for a while.
According to RDS Insider Renaud Lavoie's Twitter account, the NHL made its initial proposal for a new collective bargaining agreement to the NHLPA in Toronto today:
NHL proposal to players: 1-reduce players hockey related revenues to 46% from 57 %. 2-10 seasons in NHL before being UFA.
3-contracts limites to 5 years 4-no more salary arbitration. 5- entry-level contract 5 years instead of 3.
To Clarify the initial proposal:
1. Right now it's 57-43 in favor of the players. Owners want it to be 54-46 in favor of the owners
2. In the last CBA negotiations during the 2004-05 season elimination, the NHL agreed to accelerating unrestricted free agency from 10 years to age 27 (or 7 years).
3. There are currently no contract limits, which Wild fans learned last week when Zach Parise and Ryan Suter were given 13-year deals by Minnesota.
4. There's currently player elected and club elected arbitration
5. Is self-explanatory above.
Um.
I tweeted Saturday that the owners should be ashamed of this offer. It's ridiculous. It sends an awfully poor message about where things stand, as well as the chances of the league starting its next season on time.
It's also another sign that ownership wants the players to help save them from themselves. Of course, as we learned in the NBA -- where nearly a third of the season was lost so teams could throw eight-figure salaries at guys like Jeremy Lin -- nothing can save the owners from themselves. They will always find a way to overspend and stretch their resources way too thin.
The only benefit to the players taking this one-sided deal would be getting to watch the owners find a way to keep overspending.
You'll also note in the report that owners want entry-level deals stretched to five years instead of three. Call me crazy, but does anyone else think this would only add to the number of players looking to get away from the teams that drafted them, like Justin Schultz did? You can swallow a three-year commitment to a team you might not want to play for, but five is a ton.
I can see the owners' side on this, because there is a lot of money and time and effort put into the draft, and allowing only three years on the maximum entry-level deal means teams have to spend even more money.
It's totally just a thought, but I'm curious if it is something that could play out. Of course, the CBA negotiation also presents a chance to get rid of the rule that allows drafted players to become free agents, even if the team that drafted the player wants to sign him. If that happens, it doesn't matter what happens to entry-level deals.
Monday, July 02, 2012
Former UMD Players Cash In
A number of former UMD players signed new pro contracts over the weekend, as NHL free agency opened on Sunday.
One -- defenseman Jason Garrison (2005-2008) -- really cashed in on the league's annual spending spree. Garrison inked a six-year deal with the Vancouver Canucks, one that will pay him $27.6 million.
Garrison spoke with me Monday from Chicago about his new beginning.
He joins another former UMD star, Mason Raymond, on the Vancouver roster. Raymond struggled last season after suffering a serious back injury during Game 6 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, but is expected back on a one-year deal at this point.
Elsewhere, another Garrison teammate at UMD, Matt Niskanen, signed for two more years in Pittsburgh. The 25-year-old Niskanen will make $4.6 million over two seasons, a bargain if he keeps improving like he did in his year-and-a-half in Pittsburgh.
Niskanen's confidence looked shot at times in Dallas. His trade to Pittsburgh appeared to come at a perfect time, as it put him in a different system where he could flourish. The Penguins' style, which is more about puck-moving and skating, seems a much better fit for the former Virginia/MIB Blue Devil.
Another defenseman -- Evan Oberg -- signed a one-year, two-way deal with Tampa Bay. Oberg played three games in the NHL last season, but was a regular for a Norfolk Admirals team that won the Calder Cup title and finished the year winning 45 of its last 48 games.
Forward Tim Stapleton, one of the top scorers in UMD history, is a free agent as of Sunday. He spent last season with the Winnipeg Jets after making the move with the franchise from Atlanta.
One -- defenseman Jason Garrison (2005-2008) -- really cashed in on the league's annual spending spree. Garrison inked a six-year deal with the Vancouver Canucks, one that will pay him $27.6 million.
Garrison spoke with me Monday from Chicago about his new beginning.
He joins another former UMD star, Mason Raymond, on the Vancouver roster. Raymond struggled last season after suffering a serious back injury during Game 6 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, but is expected back on a one-year deal at this point.
Elsewhere, another Garrison teammate at UMD, Matt Niskanen, signed for two more years in Pittsburgh. The 25-year-old Niskanen will make $4.6 million over two seasons, a bargain if he keeps improving like he did in his year-and-a-half in Pittsburgh.
Niskanen's confidence looked shot at times in Dallas. His trade to Pittsburgh appeared to come at a perfect time, as it put him in a different system where he could flourish. The Penguins' style, which is more about puck-moving and skating, seems a much better fit for the former Virginia/MIB Blue Devil.
Another defenseman -- Evan Oberg -- signed a one-year, two-way deal with Tampa Bay. Oberg played three games in the NHL last season, but was a regular for a Norfolk Admirals team that won the Calder Cup title and finished the year winning 45 of its last 48 games.
Forward Tim Stapleton, one of the top scorers in UMD history, is a free agent as of Sunday. He spent last season with the Winnipeg Jets after making the move with the franchise from Atlanta.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Jason Garrison Makes History
It's been a hell of a year for Florida defenseman and former UMD Bulldog Jason Garrison. He spent much of the season leading NHL defensemen in goals, and he made some history Tuesday night in Sunrise. During Florida's 5-2 win over Toronto, Garrison tallied his 15th goal of the season, tying a Panthers franchise record held by Jay Bouwmeester and Brian McCabe.
The goal comes at around the 1:40 mark on the above video.
It was Garrison's ninth power play goal of the season, which sets a franchise single-season record for defensemen.
Garrison has career highs with 15 goals and 28 points, and to make it better, he's doing it all in a contract year. He'll be a free agent July 1, barring something unforeseen.
The goal comes at around the 1:40 mark on the above video.
It was Garrison's ninth power play goal of the season, which sets a franchise single-season record for defensemen.
Garrison has career highs with 15 goals and 28 points, and to make it better, he's doing it all in a contract year. He'll be a free agent July 1, barring something unforeseen.
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Justin Faulk Wins One For Carolina
There was some chatter on Twitter a few weeks ago about former UMD defenseman Justin Faulk being a candidate for the Calder Trophy, given to the NHL's top rookie.
I chuckled a bit, and didn't take it all that seriously.
Now, I am.
Faulk continues to play big minutes, and his contributions are increasing virtually every time I look. Tuesday night, he scored the overtime winner for the Hurricanes in a 4-3 victory over Washington.
The winner comes at the end of the video. Fast forward to around 3:45 and enjoy.
Faulk has eight goals and 18 points in 50 games, but there are some other interesting numbers. He's averaging over 22 minutes of ice per game, tops among all NHL rookies. Since the calendar flipped to 2012, the 19-year-old has played in 26 games, scoring six goals and totaling 11 points while compiling a plus-six and averaging nearly 23:30 of ice time per game.
I'm not saying he SHOULD win the Calder, but he sure has vaulted himself onto the list of candidates.
By the way, fellow former UMD player Mike Connolly was scratched for Colorado against Minnesota Tuesday. The guy whose spot he took in the lineup Sunday, Steve Downie, returned from a shoulder injury and played.
It might not be back to Lake Erie for Connolly, however, Colorado center Matt Duchene suffered an ankle injury against the Wild, and that might keep Connolly on the big club for the time being.
I chuckled a bit, and didn't take it all that seriously.
Now, I am.
Faulk continues to play big minutes, and his contributions are increasing virtually every time I look. Tuesday night, he scored the overtime winner for the Hurricanes in a 4-3 victory over Washington.
The winner comes at the end of the video. Fast forward to around 3:45 and enjoy.
Faulk has eight goals and 18 points in 50 games, but there are some other interesting numbers. He's averaging over 22 minutes of ice per game, tops among all NHL rookies. Since the calendar flipped to 2012, the 19-year-old has played in 26 games, scoring six goals and totaling 11 points while compiling a plus-six and averaging nearly 23:30 of ice time per game.
I'm not saying he SHOULD win the Calder, but he sure has vaulted himself onto the list of candidates.
******
By the way, fellow former UMD player Mike Connolly was scratched for Colorado against Minnesota Tuesday. The guy whose spot he took in the lineup Sunday, Steve Downie, returned from a shoulder injury and played.
It might not be back to Lake Erie for Connolly, however, Colorado center Matt Duchene suffered an ankle injury against the Wild, and that might keep Connolly on the big club for the time being.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Justin Faulk's First NHL Fight
Former UMD defenseman Justin Faulk is seeing some serious success in his first professional season. The 19-year-old is being talked about as a Calder Trophy candidate, and he continues to get better virtually every time he plays.
Monday night, Faulk scored the first goal in a 5-0 pasting by his Carolina Hurricanes of division rival Washington. As the score swelled, and the Capitals became frustrated, it was inevitable there would be some fighting.
In this case, one of the fights involved Faulk, marking his first NHL fight.
Winner by decision: Justin Faulk.
Monday night, Faulk scored the first goal in a 5-0 pasting by his Carolina Hurricanes of division rival Washington. As the score swelled, and the Capitals became frustrated, it was inevitable there would be some fighting.
In this case, one of the fights involved Faulk, marking his first NHL fight.
Winner by decision: Justin Faulk.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Mike Montgomery Involved in ECHL Line Brawl
Former UMD defenseman Mike Montgomery -- the captain of last season's national championship team -- has bounced between the ECHL and AHL this season. His time in the ECHL has been spent with the Ontario (Calif.) Reign, while he's had a couple cups of coffee in the AHL, including with the Wild affiliate in Houston.
Saturday night, Montgomery was involved in a line brawl that has gone viral on the YouTubes.
He's No. 6 in white, by the way.
Montgomery's Reign won 5-1. He had an assist on their last goal. By my count, the game featured close to 300 total penalty minutes.
Saturday night, Montgomery was involved in a line brawl that has gone viral on the YouTubes.
He's No. 6 in white, by the way.
Montgomery's Reign won 5-1. He had an assist on their last goal. By my count, the game featured close to 300 total penalty minutes.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Jason Garrison Leads Successful Group of UMD Alumni in NHL
One of the prices you pay for success in college hockey is the risk of losing star players early to professional hockey. Sometimes, even losing teams can have players coveted by the pros.
Defenseman Jason Garrison played at UMD from 2005-2008, flashing his big slapshot at times and developing his game enough that he got noticed by pro scouts. Garrison signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers after the 2007-2008 season, forgoing his final year of college eligibility.
The move has paid off for Garrison, who is enjoying his best season -- by far -- in the NHL this year. As the league gets into the All-Star break, Garrison leads all NHL defensemen with a career-high 13 goals. He also has set a new career high with 21 points. The Panthers, under first-year coach Kevin Dineen, went into the break with 55 points, good for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and a tie for first place in the Southeast Division with Washington.
So what took the Panthers so long to figure out that Garrison could shoot?
"I guess it was just passed along from one of the assistant coaches who stayed after last season, and he let the new staff know about it," Garrison said this week. "They've used it to their advantage, and put me on the power play in a position to shoot the puck."
Garrison has 107 shots on goal this season in 48 games, compared to 113 last season. It's pretty clear that teams are adjusting their defensive zone coverages to account for Garrison, which doesn't mean the Panthers can't continue to utilize his offensive ability.
"You're gonna be a bit more of a focus," he said. "It will create more space somewhere else, so you can use that to your advantage."
Garrison spoke highly of Florida general manager Dale Tallon and the moves he made last summer to strengthen the team. Included in that were the acquisitions of former Blackhawks (Tallon was the GM in Chicago until 2009) like forwards Kris Versteeg and Tomas Kopecky and defenseman Brian Campbell, all players who were part of the 2010 team that won the Stanley Cup in Chicago.
"Dale's brought in the right guys," Garrison said, "guys that want to win and guys that have won. That's the biggest thing. These guys have won Stanley Cups, and know what it takes, and they pass it along."
Garrison is one of a growing group of UMD alumni playing in the NHL. Getting regular ice time are forwards Mason Raymond (Vancouver) and Tim Stapleton (Winnipeg), along with defensemen Justin Faulk (Carolina) and Matt Niskanen (Pittsburgh). Former Bulldog defensemen Dylan Olsen (Chicago) and Evan Oberg (Tampa Bay) have also seen time in the NHL this season, and forward Jay Rosehill is one of the tough guys employed by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Stapleton has set a career high with seven goals going into the break, Niskanen is enjoying a nice season in Pittsburgh after a rough go in Dallas for a couple years, Raymond came back from a scary back injury suffered during the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, and Faulk is one of the top rookie defensemen in the league.
What's interesting about Garrison's situation is that he's doing this in a contract year. Garrison signed a two-year, one-way deal in 2010 (meaning he would have to pass through waivers to go the minors and be brought back to the NHL roster, and he would make his NHL salary no matter where he played), and he can become an unrestricted free agent July 1. While teammate Mike Weaver recently signed an extension with the club, Garrison doesn't sound like a guy in a hurry.
"It's something I'm just going to have to deal with at the end of the year," he told me. "We want to make the playoffs and put ourselves in a position to go far. It's a team game, and I don't want to do anything other than focus on the game."
I'm not an expert on NHL salaries, but I have to figure a 27-year-old defenseman with a huge shot and a great attitude could probably net himself a chunk of change on the open market, whether he chooses to re-sign in Florida or go elsewhere.
For now, though, the focus is on helping the Panthers secure their first playoff berth since 2000. The ten-season drought is the longest in the NHL.
Conventional wisdom is that sophomore forward JT Brown will join this alumni-turned-pro list after the season, but we have a ways to go before we get there. The Bulldogs have 12 games left in the regular season, and hopefully a bunch more in the playoffs.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Holiday Update
I'm on and off the grid lately, and between normal responsibilities and my new SB Nation responsibilities and everything that surrounds Christmas prep. I know you all understand, and I'm certainly appreciative of the continued support.
For shorter updates, check out my Facebook page and follow me on Twitter. Links are on the left-hand side.
UMD is off until late next week, when they'll resume practice in preparation for a Jan. 6-7 series at Western Michigan. Head coach Scott Sandelin is in Canada, working as an assistant coach for Team USA at the World Junior Championships, which start Monday.
All of the USA and Canada games will be on NHL Network, with the US games being original productions (they'll take a TSN feed of the Canadian games).
The American group is a bit depleted defensively, with former UMD defenseman Justin Faulk up with the Carolina Hurricanes and not available for the tournament, and 17-year-old Seth Jones now injured and out for the event.
The roster is due out later Thursday morning.
Faulk had another assist for the Hurricanes in a 4-3 loss to Phoenix Wednesday. He led the team with nearly 25 minutes of ice time, an obvious sign that the team likes what they're seeing out of him. He seems more comfortable every time I watch him play.
It's sure a loss for Team USA, but hard to argue from Carolina's standpoint. It's not like general manager Jim Rutherford is supposed to do USA Hockey a favor. They shouldn't be in a position where they feel obligated to loan the guy who's on the ice for them more often than anyone to play in a junior tournament. It's loaded with risks for the organization, and it's not necessarily beneficial to Faulk's development.
I'll post the roster once it's available.
For shorter updates, check out my Facebook page and follow me on Twitter. Links are on the left-hand side.
UMD is off until late next week, when they'll resume practice in preparation for a Jan. 6-7 series at Western Michigan. Head coach Scott Sandelin is in Canada, working as an assistant coach for Team USA at the World Junior Championships, which start Monday.
All of the USA and Canada games will be on NHL Network, with the US games being original productions (they'll take a TSN feed of the Canadian games).
The American group is a bit depleted defensively, with former UMD defenseman Justin Faulk up with the Carolina Hurricanes and not available for the tournament, and 17-year-old Seth Jones now injured and out for the event.
The roster is due out later Thursday morning.
Faulk had another assist for the Hurricanes in a 4-3 loss to Phoenix Wednesday. He led the team with nearly 25 minutes of ice time, an obvious sign that the team likes what they're seeing out of him. He seems more comfortable every time I watch him play.
It's sure a loss for Team USA, but hard to argue from Carolina's standpoint. It's not like general manager Jim Rutherford is supposed to do USA Hockey a favor. They shouldn't be in a position where they feel obligated to loan the guy who's on the ice for them more often than anyone to play in a junior tournament. It's loaded with risks for the organization, and it's not necessarily beneficial to Faulk's development.
I'll post the roster once it's available.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Chad Huttel's Team in England Records Parody Music Video
This might be better than the Florida Panthers singing Christmas carols.
Former UMD defenseman Chad Huttel is in his first year with the Sheffield Steelers, a team in England's Elite Hockey League. Huttel played four years at UMD, helping the Bulldogs win a national championship and make two NCAA Tournament appearances in his time here. That came after he was the captain of the Hermantown Hawks during their unbeaten run to the state Class A title in 2007.
Now, Huttel is spending his spare time helping his team record parodies of bad music videos. Here are the Steelers doing what virtually every American does daily: making fun of Nickelback. Huttel drew theshort long straw and got the opening scene.
Huttel has four points in 24 games for the Steelers, who are second to Belfast in the league standings.
(Stick tap: Puck Daddy)
Former UMD defenseman Chad Huttel is in his first year with the Sheffield Steelers, a team in England's Elite Hockey League. Huttel played four years at UMD, helping the Bulldogs win a national championship and make two NCAA Tournament appearances in his time here. That came after he was the captain of the Hermantown Hawks during their unbeaten run to the state Class A title in 2007.
Now, Huttel is spending his spare time helping his team record parodies of bad music videos. Here are the Steelers doing what virtually every American does daily: making fun of Nickelback. Huttel drew the
Huttel has four points in 24 games for the Steelers, who are second to Belfast in the league standings.
(Stick tap: Puck Daddy)
The Florida Panthers Want To Wish You A Merry Christmas, Via Song
Things are going great for the Florida Panthers. Kevin Dineen looks like a Jack Adams Award candidate. Former UMD Bulldog Jason Garrison leads all NHL defensemen with ten goals. Forward Kris Versteeg is on pace for 40 goals.
Oh, and Florida leads the Southeast Division by eight points.
In the spirit of the season, the Panthers want to wish all of us a Merry Christmas. Using the power of song and YouTube, they have found a fun way to do it.
Gotta love Ed Jovanovski yucking it up. So many guys could learn from him.
Others, meanwhile, obviously don't realize Movember ended.
Oh, and Florida leads the Southeast Division by eight points.
In the spirit of the season, the Panthers want to wish all of us a Merry Christmas. Using the power of song and YouTube, they have found a fun way to do it.
Gotta love Ed Jovanovski yucking it up. So many guys could learn from him.
Others, meanwhile, obviously don't realize Movember ended.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Justin Faulk Gets First NHL Goal; Stapleton and Garrison Also Score
It wasn't a great night for former UMD players Justin Faulk and Jason Garrison in terms of final scores and team results. Tim Stapleton might disagree.
Faulk's Carolina Hurricanes fell 4-2 at Stapleton's Winnipeg Jets Friday, while Garrison and the Florida Panthers lost 2-1 in a shootout at Buffalo.
However, both blue-liners tallied goals for their respective teams. Stapleton got one for the Jets, too, on a pretty good night for the one-time Bulldog stars in the NHL.
For Faulk, a 19-year-old rookie who made the Hurricanes out of training camp and then spent some time in the AHL before returning, Friday was his first NHL goal. Stapleton was credited with the game-winning goal -- his third of the season -- in the second period. Stapleton's goal comes on this video at around the 1:50 mark, while Faulk's is just past the 3:00 mark.
Garrison, meanwhile, leads all NHL defensemen with nine goals after his power-play goal in Friday's game. It comes at around the 1:50 mark of the highlight video.
The Panthers lead the NHL's Southeast Division, off to probably the most surprising start of any team in the NHL this season.
Faulk's Carolina Hurricanes fell 4-2 at Stapleton's Winnipeg Jets Friday, while Garrison and the Florida Panthers lost 2-1 in a shootout at Buffalo.
However, both blue-liners tallied goals for their respective teams. Stapleton got one for the Jets, too, on a pretty good night for the one-time Bulldog stars in the NHL.
For Faulk, a 19-year-old rookie who made the Hurricanes out of training camp and then spent some time in the AHL before returning, Friday was his first NHL goal. Stapleton was credited with the game-winning goal -- his third of the season -- in the second period. Stapleton's goal comes on this video at around the 1:50 mark, while Faulk's is just past the 3:00 mark.
Garrison, meanwhile, leads all NHL defensemen with nine goals after his power-play goal in Friday's game. It comes at around the 1:50 mark of the highlight video.
The Panthers lead the NHL's Southeast Division, off to probably the most surprising start of any team in the NHL this season.
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Matt Niskanen Fights Brad Marchand
Former UMD defenseman Matt Niskanen is not known as a fighter. In fact, this is his fourth NHL season, and he has only fought five times, counting a good one he had Monday night in Pittsburgh.
The Penguins blue-liner was on the wrong end of a rather nasty-looking slew-foot from Boston forward and noted pest Brad Marchand.
Instead of looking for someone else to fight Marchand in his honor, Niskanen took it on himself. There aren't a lot of high points on Niskanen's NHL fight card, but this is clearly the best he's had as a professional.
The voters on HockeyFights are overwhelmingly in Niskanen's favor, by the way.
The Penguins blue-liner was on the wrong end of a rather nasty-looking slew-foot from Boston forward and noted pest Brad Marchand.
Instead of looking for someone else to fight Marchand in his honor, Niskanen took it on himself. There aren't a lot of high points on Niskanen's NHL fight card, but this is clearly the best he's had as a professional.
The voters on HockeyFights are overwhelmingly in Niskanen's favor, by the way.
Friday, November 04, 2011
Former Bulldogs in Pro Hockey
This is my first attempt this season at listing former UMD men's hockey players currently in pro hockey.
I may have missed a few guys. Please send me an email or comment on this post if you know of any omissions.
Nick Anderson, Pontebba (Italy), 13 GP 1-4-5
Rob Bordson, Trenton (ECHL), 7 GP 1-4-5
Andrew Carroll, Hershey (AHL), 9 GP 0-1-1
Mike Connolly, Worcester (AHL), 7 GP 5-6-11
Justin Faulk, Charlotte (AHL), 6 GP 1-4-5; Carolina
Hurricanes, 3 GP 0-0-0
Justin Fontaine, Houston (AHL), 10 GP 3-3-6
Jordan Fulton, Stockton (ECHL), 6 GP 0-2-2
Jason Garrison, Florida Panthers, 12 GP 5-1-6
Travis Gawryletz, Karlovy Vary HC (Czech Republic), 4 GP
0-1-1; Ontario Reign (ECHL), 2 GP 0-0-0
Michael Gergen, Bakersfield (ECHL), 8 GP 1-1-2
Tim Hambly, Ingolstadt (Germany), 16 GP 2-3-5
Chad Huttel, Sheffield (England), 12 GP 1-3-4
Matt McKnight, Lausitzer Foxes (Germany), 11 GP 5-4-9
Josh Meyers, Bolzano (Italy), 13 GP 2-8-10
Mike Montgomery, Ontario (ECHL), 5 GP 0-0-0
Matt Niskanen, Pittsburgh Penguins, 14 GP 1-3-4
Evan Oberg, San Antonio (AHL), 4 GP 0-0-0
Trent Palm, Chicago (ECHL), 4 GP 0-0-0
Jay Rosehill, Toronto Maple Leafs, 4 GP 0-0-0
Kyle Schmidt, Lillehammer IK (Norway), 9 GP 1-3-4
MacGregor Sharp, Bolzano (Italy), 13 GP 8-4-12
Tim Stapleton, Winnipeg Jets, 8 GP 0-2-2
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Justin Faulk: Carolina Hurricane
Anyone who follows me on Twitter knows I've been all over the prospect of former UMD defenseman Justin Faulk making the Carolina Hurricanes for months. For me, this isn't really a surprise, just an affirmation of something I felt pretty strongly about as the summer got started.
Faulk -- who starred for UMD during last season's national championship run -- signed with Carolina after the year ended. When I talked to him in July, he was a confident young man who felt like he really had a shot to be in the NHL this fall.
Wednesday, the Hurricanes trimmed their roster to 23, as mandated by NHL rules, ahead of Friday's season opener against Tampa Bay.
Faulk is among nine defensemen on that final roster. And if you believe head coach Paul Maurice, Faulk has a real shot of sticking around for quite a while.
After Wednesday's practice, Maurice spoke to the media about a number of topics, including the final cut (former Cornell star Riley Nash) and Faulk. Here is a transcript of his Faulk comments.
Faulk, 19, won't be the youngest defenseman on the team. Ryan Murphy, 18, was Carolina's first-round pick this summer. He is on the roster after a huge offensive season for the OHL's Kitchener Rangers last season and a great training camp.
Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford's thoughts on Faulk?
The lesson learned here? For starters, the U.S. Junior National Team will be missing one of the top returning players (at least in terms of age eligibility) if Rutherford is at all accurate. No way the Hurricanes make Faulk eligible for the World Junior Championships if he's still on the NHL roster. The only way he plays in Alberta is 1) when Carolina heads to Edmonton and Calgary in December, or 2) if he somehow struggles in the NHL and the Hurricanes send him to AHL Charlotte. If that happens, Faulk could be available for the U.S. team.
Otherwise, no chance. And good for Faulk, because he's an example of a player who wasn't going to get any better in college hockey. That he has been deemed NHL-ready out of his first pro training camp says a lot about college hockey's ability to develop elite-level talent.
So, even though he only went to UMD for one year, Faulk is a guy College Hockey, Inc., can look at as a positive story about the game and its potential impact on player development.
Faulk -- who starred for UMD during last season's national championship run -- signed with Carolina after the year ended. When I talked to him in July, he was a confident young man who felt like he really had a shot to be in the NHL this fall.
Wednesday, the Hurricanes trimmed their roster to 23, as mandated by NHL rules, ahead of Friday's season opener against Tampa Bay.
Faulk is among nine defensemen on that final roster. And if you believe head coach Paul Maurice, Faulk has a real shot of sticking around for quite a while.
After Wednesday's practice, Maurice spoke to the media about a number of topics, including the final cut (former Cornell star Riley Nash) and Faulk. Here is a transcript of his Faulk comments.
He's had a great camp. We've got a lot of faith in him. We really like the way he's played, and I think he has the opportunity to continue to get better.
Like I said yesterday, we're not pulling Justin in and showing him a lot of video about things he has to learn about the game. He's got a lot of great instinct to play defense and a nice little offensive upside. So we are comfortable putting him in the lineup.
Faulk, 19, won't be the youngest defenseman on the team. Ryan Murphy, 18, was Carolina's first-round pick this summer. He is on the roster after a huge offensive season for the OHL's Kitchener Rangers last season and a great training camp.
Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford's thoughts on Faulk?
Canes general manager Jim Rutherford was discussing personnel and roster decisions to be made today when a question was raised about Justin Faulk and whether Rutherford would consider him one of the team's top six defensemen.
"No," Rutherford said, "in the top four."
What has impressed Rutherford the most about Faulk, who's 19 and was enrolled at Minnesota-Duluth this time last year and set to play college hockey?
"Pretty much everything," Rutherford said. "To think that he's 19 years old, and to have the composure he has, and the way he handles the puck and the way he handles different situations, how he moves the puck, how he skates. He knows the game.
"I haven't seen many flaws in his game to this point. This is great for us. We knew we had a good player in Justin, but as a defenseman we always say it's going to take longer. But for him to do what he did in the preseason as a 19-year-old is pretty impressive."
The lesson learned here? For starters, the U.S. Junior National Team will be missing one of the top returning players (at least in terms of age eligibility) if Rutherford is at all accurate. No way the Hurricanes make Faulk eligible for the World Junior Championships if he's still on the NHL roster. The only way he plays in Alberta is 1) when Carolina heads to Edmonton and Calgary in December, or 2) if he somehow struggles in the NHL and the Hurricanes send him to AHL Charlotte. If that happens, Faulk could be available for the U.S. team.
Otherwise, no chance. And good for Faulk, because he's an example of a player who wasn't going to get any better in college hockey. That he has been deemed NHL-ready out of his first pro training camp says a lot about college hockey's ability to develop elite-level talent.
So, even though he only went to UMD for one year, Faulk is a guy College Hockey, Inc., can look at as a positive story about the game and its potential impact on player development.
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
Jason Garrison Excited by Panthers Spending Spree
Jason Garrison played three seasons at UMD, scoring nine goals and amassing 29 points over 87 games. He has a big shot, but also grew as a defensive player during his time with the Bulldogs. By the time his injury-shortened third season was over, Garrison was one of the most trusted -- and eminently likable -- players on the UMD roster.
He signed a free-agent deal with the Florida Panthers, a smart move because Garrison knew he'd have a chance to climb the ladder in that organization, which at the time was low on defensemen in the system.
Fast-forward to the present day, and Garrison is coming off his best season as a professional. He played 73 games for the Panthers, scoring five goals -- three game-winners -- and 18 points. Among players who actually finished the season with Florida (Dennis Wideman was traded to Washington at the deadline), Garrison led the way in ice time, averaging over 22 minutes per game. Only Marty Reasoner and Mike Weaver fared better in plus/minus than Garrison.
It was a frustrating season for the Panthers in general, as the team wasted a pretty rock-solid season from goalie Tomas Vokoun, now with the Capitals, by not scoring nearly enough goals. But Garrison had a lot to hold his head up high about. It was a breakthrough for him, after spending most of his previous two pro seasons with the Panthers' AHL team in Rochester (113 games, 11 goals, 54 points).
Now, Garrison has something to be excited about. Florida general manager Dale Tallon went crazy as free agency started Friday, one week after adding former Chicago defenseman Brian Campbell in a trade. Tallon traded for forward Kris Versteeg and signed forwards Tomas Fleischmann, Tomas Kopecky, Scottie Upshall, Marcel Goc, and Sean Bergenheim, defenseman Ed Jovanovski, and goalie Jose Theodore.
Yeah, nothing really jumps off the page, but these are some solid moves for a franchise that needed some.
"Seems like he has made some key additions which the team is in need (of)," Garrison said over the weekend. "Power play help in Campbell, Versteeg, scoring depth in lines."
Stephen Weiss, Mike Santorelli, and David Booth are the Panthers' top returning scorers, and none of them hit even 50 points last season. While Versteeg and Fleischmann aren't prolific scorers, they add some real depth to Florida's top six. Fleischmann appeared to be on his way to a great season after being traded by Washington to Colorado, before a diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism ended his season.
Tallon also helped Florida's back line immensely by adding Campbell and Jovanovski.
"Playoff and Stanley Cup experience and leadership in Jovo," Garrison also noted, "as well as a top D man. I'm really excited about the moves."
Did Tallon overpay for the one-time Panther Jovo? Probably, but it's the kind of contract that someone would have given him had Tallon passed.
While Garrison might not lead the team in ice time again, he doesn't sound too worried about his role.
"So much time between now and camp," he said. "I'm proud of the job I did in my role last year, but if they have something else planned, I'll adjust."
Tallon has Jovanovski, Campbell, Garrison, Weaver, and promising youngsters Dmitri Kulikov and Keaton Ellerby available, along with 2010 first-round pick Erik Gudbranson, who could be ready to challenge for ice time in the NHL.
Garrison fits very well in this group as a player new coach Kevin Dineen can trust in all situations. You can't put a pricetag on that kind of player. He's a class act who understands his role and does what is asked of him. He's also only 26, while new faces Jovanovski and Campbell aren't exactly spring chickens.
The Panthers might not be a flashy team, but in a wide-open Eastern Conference, they could have become a contender for the top eight with Tallon's maneuvering.
Now, they need to work on getting people on South Beach excited about hockey.
He signed a free-agent deal with the Florida Panthers, a smart move because Garrison knew he'd have a chance to climb the ladder in that organization, which at the time was low on defensemen in the system.
Fast-forward to the present day, and Garrison is coming off his best season as a professional. He played 73 games for the Panthers, scoring five goals -- three game-winners -- and 18 points. Among players who actually finished the season with Florida (Dennis Wideman was traded to Washington at the deadline), Garrison led the way in ice time, averaging over 22 minutes per game. Only Marty Reasoner and Mike Weaver fared better in plus/minus than Garrison.
It was a frustrating season for the Panthers in general, as the team wasted a pretty rock-solid season from goalie Tomas Vokoun, now with the Capitals, by not scoring nearly enough goals. But Garrison had a lot to hold his head up high about. It was a breakthrough for him, after spending most of his previous two pro seasons with the Panthers' AHL team in Rochester (113 games, 11 goals, 54 points).
Now, Garrison has something to be excited about. Florida general manager Dale Tallon went crazy as free agency started Friday, one week after adding former Chicago defenseman Brian Campbell in a trade. Tallon traded for forward Kris Versteeg and signed forwards Tomas Fleischmann, Tomas Kopecky, Scottie Upshall, Marcel Goc, and Sean Bergenheim, defenseman Ed Jovanovski, and goalie Jose Theodore.
Yeah, nothing really jumps off the page, but these are some solid moves for a franchise that needed some.
"Seems like he has made some key additions which the team is in need (of)," Garrison said over the weekend. "Power play help in Campbell, Versteeg, scoring depth in lines."
Stephen Weiss, Mike Santorelli, and David Booth are the Panthers' top returning scorers, and none of them hit even 50 points last season. While Versteeg and Fleischmann aren't prolific scorers, they add some real depth to Florida's top six. Fleischmann appeared to be on his way to a great season after being traded by Washington to Colorado, before a diagnosis of a pulmonary embolism ended his season.
Tallon also helped Florida's back line immensely by adding Campbell and Jovanovski.
"Playoff and Stanley Cup experience and leadership in Jovo," Garrison also noted, "as well as a top D man. I'm really excited about the moves."
Did Tallon overpay for the one-time Panther Jovo? Probably, but it's the kind of contract that someone would have given him had Tallon passed.
While Garrison might not lead the team in ice time again, he doesn't sound too worried about his role.
"So much time between now and camp," he said. "I'm proud of the job I did in my role last year, but if they have something else planned, I'll adjust."
Tallon has Jovanovski, Campbell, Garrison, Weaver, and promising youngsters Dmitri Kulikov and Keaton Ellerby available, along with 2010 first-round pick Erik Gudbranson, who could be ready to challenge for ice time in the NHL.
Garrison fits very well in this group as a player new coach Kevin Dineen can trust in all situations. You can't put a pricetag on that kind of player. He's a class act who understands his role and does what is asked of him. He's also only 26, while new faces Jovanovski and Campbell aren't exactly spring chickens.
The Panthers might not be a flashy team, but in a wide-open Eastern Conference, they could have become a contender for the top eight with Tallon's maneuvering.
Now, they need to work on getting people on South Beach excited about hockey.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Tim Stapleton For The Win
It's been a bit of a struggle offensively for former Bulldog Tim Stapleton this season. With the Atlanta Thrashers, Stapleton -- 18th all-time on UMD's scoring chart -- had just two points in 29 games before Wednesday night.
Despite that, he was on the ice in overtime of a crucial game against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh.
With a chance to help his team win on a two-on-one rush with defenseman Ron Hainsey, Stapleton turned on the burners and got open in scoring position. Hainsey found him, and "Buster" made no mistake.
With the win, Atlanta is within five points of Buffalo and the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Despite that, he was on the ice in overtime of a crucial game against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh.
With a chance to help his team win on a two-on-one rush with defenseman Ron Hainsey, Stapleton turned on the burners and got open in scoring position. Hainsey found him, and "Buster" made no mistake.
With the win, Atlanta is within five points of Buffalo and the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Former Bulldogs Moved on Deadline Day
On Feb. 21, Matt Niskanen was dealt from the Dallas Stars to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins have given Niskanen plenty of ice time so far, though he'll have to play well to keep it, given the number of guys they have banged up.
The bulk of the activity came on Monday.
Former UMD sniper MacGregor Sharp was dealt from the Anaheim Ducks to the Vancouver Canucks. Sharp has 33 points in 96 career AHL games, and was scoreless in eight appearances last season with the Ducks.
He will report to the Manitoba Moose of the AHL.
Evan Oberg -- who played two years at UMD from 2007-2009 before turning pro -- was dealt by Vancouver to the Florida organization. Oberg has four NHL games under his belt, including two this season, but he will report to the Rochester Americans of the AHL. He has seven goals and 11 points in 38 AHL games this season.
Oberg is the second former UMD defenseman to make his home in the Florida Panthers organization. Jason Garrison is in his third professional season, and his first full NHL season. In 53 games, Garrison has three goals and 11 points, but his role is likely to increase, now that Florida has traded half their defensemen. Included in their fire sale were captain Bryan McCabe and power play quarterback Dennis Wideman. Garrison should get some power play time to go along with the more than 23 minutes per game he's already on the ice for.
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks have signed goalie Antti Niemi to a four-year contract extension. This is likely bad news for former UMD All-American goalie Alex Stalock, who is recovering from a serious injury to his left leg that required surgery. Stalock was having a good second season in the AHL -- and had picked up his first NHL win in a brief call-up -- before he was injured.
Now, one has to wonder what Al's future in the organization is, because $3.8 million per year goalies usually don't sit on the bench for very long.
As for other former UMD players currently in the NHL, Mason Raymond has ten goals and 31 points in 52 games for the Vancouver Canucks. Tim Stapleton has one goal and two points in 26 games for the Atlanta Thrashers. Also, Jay Rosehill -- who would have set all sorts of records for sin-bin time had he played four years of college hockey -- has one goal and two points in 18 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs. A defenseman for most of his career, Rosehill plays forward now, and brings the kind of truculence Brian Burke likes.
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