The ride is going to get bumpy….real bumpy. We are just a mere 18 hours (a little less) from the trade deadline. Rumors are circulating faster than the papers flying around my room it seems in what I have called “media central”. So what do I have going right now?? I have 2 tv’s…the computer…a radio….3 different types of instant messaging. My buddy LS has an even bigger media conglomerate going tomorrow. I may have to call him the King of all Toronto Media.
Things that are known pretty much for sure. Brad Richards has listed Columbus, Dallas, and Vancouver as teams he would like to play for. Peter Forsberg is a Colorado Avalanche. Brian Campbell would not answer whether he will be a Sabre tomorrow (that was on VS.). Olli Jokinen is not entirely out of the trade mix and neither is Patrick Marleau. The Kings are definitely still in sell mode and may move 2 or 3 more players.
What is a little more uncertain is where Marian Hossa will go? Yes, Montreal is the frontrunner but a mystery team has entered the sweepstakes. When I pressed my source a little he said maybe Ottawa or Vancouver (Naslund would go back). I am not so sure about this so keep it tuned to The NHL Arena, Spectors, The Fourth Period, and Puck Podcast.
Another thing is to watch out for the smaller deals. There will be a good flurry of those type of deals that may go unnoticed. The 2008 draft is one of the deepest in quite awhile so some teams may try and angle to get some picks in this year’s draft in hopes for the future. So do keep in mind, the bigger trades will get the headlines but the smaller ones usually get noticed later.
So tomorrow will be tons of fun and anxiety for every hockey fan. Get ready and get loud….because The NHL Arena will be there for every single turn. Have a great night everybody.
UPDATE: Vaclav Prospal has been traded to the Philadelphia Flyers for Alexander Picard and a 2009 conditional draft pick….more details on The NHL Arena’s Trade Tracker.
More stuff….Dan Boyle has been extended 6 years..40 mill by Tampa and Barrett Jackman has been extended 4 years…14.4 million by St. Louis. Rumors are flying all over the place as the quiet has subsided.
