Not a normal day for Richards

From the looks of things, Lightning forward Brad Richards tried to act like this was any other morning skate, but there was obviously something different.

Over the course of the last few days, Richards’ name has been one of the most discussed in trade speculation.

Everywhere Richards goes, people want to talk about a trade that could never happen. By the times the trade deadline passes Tuesday at 3:01 p.m., the 27-year-old could be dealt, most likely to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

He’s scored 150 goals (and 488 points) in a Tampa Bay uniform, won a Conn Smythe Trophy, was a critical cog of a Stanley Cup winner, and was one of the organization’s few home-grown talents.

A 50-foot tall banner that hangs from the southeast side of the St. Pete Times Forum shows Richards hoisting the Stanley Cup above his head.

Brad Richards has been a part of the good times for the Lightning, but tonight’s game against the Bruins could be Richards’ last one in a Lightning sweater.

“After tonight’s game, maybe I’ll have more time to think about what’s going on,” Richards said after today's morning skate. “We have another game tonight, and that’s all I can do. There’s really nothing else I can tell you.”

Comments

[Another Joe]

If he is traded it wont be until the off season. Blockbusters like this would be dont happen at the trade deadline. Kuba,Prospal, and Boyle should be more worried in my opinion.

And i hope we keep Richards. He is a gamer. Maybe not the big point guy during regular season, but he is a gamer in the playoffs when we get there! But i also understand the problems with his salary cap #.

[eyore]

Gotta be tough on the guy. He's been a Bolt his entire career. Gave his heart and soul to win a cup. But hey....it's professional sports.

Nobody wants to get traded unless they ask for it. It's a slap in the face. He's obviously had a couple of days to think about it. If a team doesn't want you, it doesn't make sense to stay there. No trade gets waived and he goes for a fresh start elsewhere. Nothing more he can do.

Then again, chances of a trade now are less than most think. Quite possible but unlikely. He may get to finish the season here and could be around longer. The fact Boyle hasn't signed leans heavily in Brads favor to finish the season at the least very least. It's not like his value will be any lower in the summer.

What I don't want to see is Feaster getting caught up in games with Boyle's agent and think they will make the deal only to have it blow up after the deadline. He's signed by Sunday or he's gone. The stakes are way too high to lose him for nothing.

[Not The Marlboro Man]

At this point I think Richards along with several others ae probably begging to get out of Tampa. Mostly due to the hard sarcastic coaching style that has outseved its usefulness here. If Richards is traded to the Blue jackets, he will be back with ole pal Freddy Modin and he will get a chance to play with Rick Nash, that would always be a positive.

Brad Richards' predicament is not his own fault but it is the GM's fault for giving him a contract worthy of a Hockey god. I just wish this new owner would see through Feaster's incompetence and send him packing before we have an even worse situation to deal with. Khabibulin, Marc Dennis, Brad Richards, Freddy Modin, John Graham are all terrible decisions effecting the Bolts that were consummated by the incompetence of Feaster. This team needs an overhaul for sure, but I would start with the front office first then work my way down to the player situations. Changing one or two offensive and defensive players and adding a goalie is not going to change the the way this team plays hockey.

[Lisa]

I will be sorry to see Richards leave, but with the salary cap and the huge contract he has, the team has not choice. He does not have the linemates to be productive, and we won't get linemates for him because of his huge salary. And he can't change the game on his own (like Vinny can do when he is paying well). So I don't think the team has a choice but to trade him, and to get back the most in the trade. But of course, we have to remember that with his NTC, Richards has to approve the move, and so we may not get the best deal out there for him.

I like the Columbus deal: if true, I have even read the possiblity of Zherdev being included (or course, these are all rumors). But Zherdev and possibly Stamkos in the draft would go far in replacing Richards and improving the team.

[boltflasher]

From ESPN's Top 10 Draft Day Trades: Look at the #1 Deal!!

1. March 24, 1998

• Tampa Bay obtains Andrei Nazarov and a 1998 first-round pick (Vincent Lecavalier) from San Jose for Bryan Marchment, David Shaw and a first-round pick (later traded to Nashville)

• Tampa Bay obtains Sandy McCarthy, a 1998 third-round pick (Brad Richards) and a fifth-round pick from Calgary for Jason Wiemer

For Tampa Bay, the road to the Stanley Cup went right through the 1998 draft as the Lightning obtained two pivotal draft picks through deals in 1998. After drafting Vincent Lecavalier (first overall) and Brad Richards (third-round pick), the Lighting built the foundation for their 2004 championship team. Lecavalier has evolved into one of the game's best players and respected leaders. Tampa's captain won the Maurice Richard Trophy in 2006-07 as the league's top goal scorer (52). Richards was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2004 after scoring 26 points, including seven game-winning goals. Two great trades, followed by some exceptional scouting, makes the 1998 trade deadline a memorable one for Tampa Bay.

[Lisa]

Anyone that goes to the game tonight: give them a standing ovation, no matter what the result because this is the last game we will see many of these players as Bolts. And remember, the contributions of Boyle and Richards (as well as many others) led the team to the Cup.

Good luck to the team, and I wish the best to any player that is traded (except when they play the Bolts).

[tundo]

I think Richards would waive his clause for the chance to play top line center between Modin and Nash. It would be stupid for him not to, really. If he wants to continue making 8M a year after this contract is up, he needs to produce better offensive numbers, something he cannot do here with the average wingers he is provided with. This move would make his career long and prosperous. A great move for the Jackets and Richards...

The Jackets (and hockey media) did Feaster a huge favor by showing their intentions early. Feaster holds the upper hand right now, because it is obvious that the Jackets want Richards in a very bad way. If Feaster were a good GM, he would get MORE than Richards is worth in return from Hitchcock. But, Feasters inexpirience will once again interfere, and we may get LESS than we should. Lets just hope that isn't the case...

Nik Zherdev would be an awesome return. He is making 2.5M for the next two years, and would give us a much better 2nd line RW than we have right now. But I doubt the Jackets would give us Zherdev and Brassard, and I would rather get a 2nd line center in the deal, they are more difficult to come across. Although, if we are lucky and win the draft lottery, we can draft Stamkos as our 2nd line center to play with Zherdev... But LA will have the inside track to the 1st pick, we will most likely end up 2nd at best, maybe 3rd. Some good offensive defensemen in those two spots though. Speaking of which, I would love to get Chris Russell away from the Jackets too...

[Lisa]

After all the trades, we may end up last and have the inside on LA. And remember, it is a lottery system so anyone of the bottom teams can get the #1 pick.

[boltflasher]

Will be at the game tonight and bid them adieu...and look forward to the new guys...but if they don't change coach and sink alot of money into keeping Boyle, then we will know that JF still has not learned and has repeated the same mistake...

[tundo]

Right, I think LA would have a higher chance at winning the lottery if they have the least amount of points in the league. Since we will finish probably second-worse in the league, we cant fall below third pick. If we finish as the worst, we have the highest chance and couldnt fall below the 2nd pick, like Philly last year...

That is how I remember the process going, but there is a good chance I am wrong...

[Lisa]

If we trade Richards, Boyle, Gratton and Prospal, do you really think we won't drop to last in the league? We will probably be getting prospects and draft picks in return for most of them, so don't expect much for the rest of the season.

[Casper]

Then I expect Richie as always, to play this game like it was the one he wants to be remembered for. At Ninety Five Freaking Thousand Bones per game, I resent being told not to expect that from him---ever.

True enough, this is a business and he's had no problem cashing the checks. What does it matter if he plies his trade on Florida or Ohio or even Carolina ice. It's like Davidson, what does he care if the coach has rolled snake eyes (yet, again) with a second echelon roster and a GM that....oh give it a rest..... as long as he sees green from the Forum Faithful, who cares?

I have a chilling feeling Richie isn't going anywhere. Good as he's been for us through the years, it's just plain old now. His contract is like an anaconda around the Bolts' neck. I'm not listening to any bugle oil next September about him leading us back to.........

Hey! It's the B's!
Well, Go Bolts!!

[Cam]

Actually Lisa, I'd expect the other lads to step up and play some angryass hockey. The type that's 180 degrees from #19. We could find minor solace in spoiling the dance cards for the other hoofers.

Brad Richards already knows what's coming up...because he has to approve a possible trade.....
He wil agree to play somewhere else ... in an organisation with a solid reputation...
He will not accept to move anywhere - despite what he has to deal with in here - with so little to play in Tampa this season...
But for sure he's gone... now or before next season...
About Modin....most of fans have forgotten his last half-season as a Bolt...He was horrible, no more physically involved, leasy....and then the search for another left winger to Brad started....followed by the search for another right winger, when Marty was "promoted" to Vinny's...!!!
BR had to shut it up...because of his huge contract...and endure all the stuff that followed, espacially this season, where the GM + coach showed very little respect for a men who did so much to make them look so bright in the past...
The only positive move was when, for only 5 games, they play him with 4 and 26...as any "standard" organisation would have done for the entire season...
During those 5 games, team got 7 pts/10...But Coach broke the line to please most of the fans crying on Vaclav , and still yelling at Brad no matter he's got 7 pts and + 2 during the sequence....And we lost the last 2 games...we didn't score in the last....and we lost the one before because of a leasy defensive effort by 4,20,26....
So for those who wants the good of that honest athlete, hope him to be traded ASAP...

[boltflasher]

Yes, leaving for the game now, and hope to see some angry play out there tonight...will post when back...

[boltflasher]

One more post...no crying for Brad, he played himself into this regardless of the wingers he's had or not had...

[tundo]

I dont know about dead last, LA is pretty pathetic. We at least will still have Vinny and Marty, if nothing else. That has to be good for some scattered points in the standings...

At what point do you pull up the prospects is the real question. No doubt there will be some heavy struggles then. But I am all for it, Id rather our defensive prospects get smoked rather than Kuba...

[tundo]

Wish I could be at the game tonight, but I got scammed into working...

Crappy weather makes for no planes flying, so I should be able to watch the game with no interruptions!

[El Gordo]

Great, just great. An air traffic controller watching a hockey game.

[fogelberg]

Lisa - For what it's worth Zherdev has spent a considerable amount of time the last year-and-a-half in Ken Hitchcock's doghouse. Mainly for his consistently poor defensive effort. It could work to our advantage in asking for him, but do we really need another gifted, fancy pants of a player who doesn't backcheck?

[fogelberg]

One more thing: If Feaster really had a sweet deal on the front burner ready to boil do you think he'd have Richie play tonight and risk injury? It makes me wonder.

[tundo]

The guy is still really talented. I would take him on my team and try to get the veteran presense, mainly Lecavalier, to try and convince him to play some D...

[tundo]

Yeah. Richards deserves to play one more time in front of his fans here. Injury risk is very low with him anyways...

If the deal is done, Id expect it to be done tomorrow. It will be like Christmas morning...

[Muddog]

I like that, and holla in chorus about the persistent low injury risk factor....wow, great!

Who is serious about acquiring Boyle? How serious? Find that out, who wants him and what do we get.
Before we get all claustrophobic about the modest but brief turnaround the club had when he finally returned, bear in mind he must play like a man possessed in this, his last chance to ‘go for the gold’ (as in Ft. Knox).

Anybody want to bet me $1000 Danny won’t have frequent and protracted slumps? Mr. ‘Nads says he’ll slack off until mid-December then slump again until one year from today if we sign him to elite d-man quesadillas.
It may be a colossal faux pas déjà vous. Two Titanics in one Harbor by the same blundering GM.
No more freaking Band-Aids; start the chemotherapy and start it now. You know the names, start sending them farewell cards. And get one big Get Well card for the Bolts because, we will.

[Geografer]

Why wouldn't Richy go to Columbus? He can go play with Modin and then quite all the critics that complain about his salary vs output. Put him back with a finisher and his numbers will be through the roof. Better would be to get Modin back and then we would get the benefits of the salary he does deserve. Has anyone thought about what this will do to Vinny? Here is the guy who has been his best friend and he has played with pretty much every year since they were in high school at 14. This has to be really hard on him. Maybe this is what is behind the uninspired play in the last game. I vote we keep Richy and trade Feaster for the crappy deal that not only cost us Modin but gave us a almost 3million goalie who is in the minors and can't manage to stop a beach ball!

[tundo]

Boyle may have struggles, like any hockey player does, but I don't buy him being a slacker. He just doesn't seem to have that type of work mentality...

Decent first period, Holmer has to stop that shot, however. It would be nice for Kuba to try and drop down to block that shot, too. If we want to win, we need to put 4 in the net this period. Lets get it done, Vinny...

[Casper]

Well now starts some unfun hours. I don't know if it'll be like Christmas, more like a garage sale. You never net what you think your stuff is worth.

So, Columbus wants the Man to feed Modin and Nash, it should cost them Klesa, Peca, and one of their bright kids. ABSOLUTELY NOT THE SLACKER ZHERDEV!!! HE’LL BE ON A LINE WITH SVITOV BEFORE TOO DANGED LONG!

The Ratty Rangers want DFB, we’ll take young Staal. (37 minutes against the B’s. There’s a man who wants outta here and displayed Cup Drive stamina to open some more eyes.) We are going to lose him. Let's make it worth our while. Stand hard on this Jay---think of Danny as a drumstick and somebody wants to rip him away.

If Calgary wants Prospal, it’ll cost them Matt Pelich. Any and all high round picks through 2012 to sweeten these deals would also be welcomed.

Let’s also not forget other dead weight we have to jettison to sour a deal for someone else. Denis can accompany Brad back to Ohio, and will someone take a chance on rights to the idiot Artyukhin? Stuff Arty and Kuba on a flight to the West Coast for a pseudo-sniper-in-waiting.

Who will put the biscuit in the basket for us? After Il Duce is deposed as coach, we can try some kids we already have and never thought they’d get a shot. (Better they learn by playing with the big boys and watching V4 and Marty up close, not tuning out Steve Sterling.) Remember, we went to camp in September with roster constraints. How are these kids supposed to go for the gusto if we don’t give them their fair shot? Think of that latitude as similar to looking the other way from Richards’ limited offerings for so long, but with a patient coach that nurtures success---not playing addling head games and screwball unbalanced ice time, geeyazus.

Go Bolts and godspeed to the future refugees.

[C]

Forgot to mention; am I the only one to notice since DFB has returned, Ranger has regressed a tad?

[Torts is Done]

Of course Ranger has regressed. Once again his game is limited as he continues to cover for his partner. Some things never change!

[ajax]

1st let me say Boyle gives every ounce every shift. His effort and love of the game should never be questioned. He played 37 minutes tonight. Insanity rules at the palace. 37 minutes, covers all complaints, everything.
My observation about tonight.
Power plays. Their D stood up 4 across the blue line all night long. That is how to play hockey. We had trouble even getting it into the offensive zone.
Flipside: Our penalty kill was spent with the puck in our zone for 80% of time. Their forwards skate into the zone, stop up high and 90 non stop seconds gets spent with Homer under seige.
I would bet their were at least 20 times tonight when 4 guys were in the corner, two to a side and 18 times Boston game out with the puck, threw a pass to the blue line and they cranked a shot toward goal.
Would be nice to see the boys win a few battles along the boards. With 6 of the 12 forwards weighing less than 190 lbs maybe I am dreaming.
Feaster and Torts have been talking for two years now about putting a team on the ice that is tougher to play against. They recieve a D- at best.
When I look at a one line team with a very passive Defensive 6, and yes an average goalie, and yes a team that just might not be 100% battle ready the rest of the way, I can see us finishing about 3-19-2. Part of me says, if they play bad enough they will clean house. Yes, that sounds good!!!!

[ajax]

Sorry I forgot to type the most important part of the night. I went with a guy I never met(kids go to school together) He has season tickets also. My first comment was about the trade rumors. We aren't a mile from my house and he says. Richards isn't effective because his whole game is spent at the top of the faceoff circle. I met my soul mate!! We got along just fine.

[boltflasher]

After witnessing tonite's debacle live, a few comments...those who think this team is only a couple of players away from a playoff team are not watching the same team...2 shots in the 3rd period during "FOUR" powerplays (that is not playoff hockey)...and we were outgoaltended by their backup.......A lot of work is needed to get this team back to the playoffs...

[Buona sera]

Funny AJAX...(like the soap...!!! ) How did Richards got the new record for winning goals in play-offs in 2004....and the MVP Trophy...and the Lady Bing....
Loosers like you should shut it up instead of bashing that much....
Get back to the beach...where you're in your world...
How can we trust you anymore...You showed to all you dont know a bit about that game....and his people..

[Real Lightning Fan]

Thank you for your continued support ajax. here's a block of cheese to go with all that whine.....

A house cleaning is already in order and the first steps have been taken to set the wheels in motion. Won't happen soon enough for you but then again you are a dreamer rather than a realist. Wait till it happens then see how you feel. You ain't gonna like the looks of this team when it's done. You can't see that far in the future. You are about to get exactly what you want. Remember that. If you don't, I'll remind you. A complete overhaul takes time to gel but in the long run it looks like the best thing to do. Till it does, blame nobody. It's what you asked for and you know as well as anyone how long it takes for the youngins we will get in return to mature. It could take a year or 2. Or 3 before the magic returns. That's if it does. I'm not sure you realize that or have the patience for it. As the team struggles to find their place, just remember this is what you wanted.

[Torts is Done]

A quote from the coach after tonight's game!!!!

"I'm going to be honest with you," coach John Tortorella said. "There is a lot of stuff going on with this hockey team right now that's unfair to the players. It's unfair to players who are still trying to compete and play.

"The (expletive) that's going on with this (expletive) hockey club right now, it's inexcusable as far as treating hockey players as pros."

Oh.......and since when do you treat them like pro's? Scolding them publicly, putting them in time out....

Screw U coach. Ya 2 faced rat b@$+@&)

[Torts is Done]

More post game comments from torts-

"I'm not going to give you a bunch of information as to what's going on. But ... there are a few (players) who have extenuating circumstances going on, which didn't have to go on," Tortorella said, moments after center Brad Richards, a topic of trade rumors, was summoned to the coach's office.
===================================

Looks as though the exodus has started. Be prepared for the prospect/pick parade to begin. Could be for the best. Could be the dumbest thing that ever happened here. Guess in 2 or 3 years we'll all know!

[boltflasher]

Oh, Torts is complaining about the rumours??? He should be glad he and other players don't play further north...This is nothing compared to Toronto, NY, Montreal, Philly, and etc..

[boltflasher]

More about Torts comments.... What a bunch of whiny, overpaid babies these guys have become...Why don't they try a real job in the real world and find some real things to complain about...

[Torts is Done]

You are correct flasher. Torts is on the way out and I believe he knows it. Like Keenan, he will not be unemployed long. I hope for his own sake he has the sense to slide into another "small market." He ends up in Canada or the northeast he will be crucified in a matter of months. He never knew how good he had it here. He has been allowed to push the envelope here. Let him try that elsewhere.

[David]

More post-game wisdom from Captain Eloquence.

What a disgrace to the organization. The occasional temper tantrum and swear word will happen, this guy uses them as his stock in trade.

[boltflasher]

Well, if Jay had no plans for a change there, Torts may have finally talked Jay into it...how much of this stupid stuff from your coach be tolerated by an organization?....

[Jeep (Since someone else is already Eric)]

Sounds like we're about to make some pretty big mistakes.

I've never been so depressed to be a Bolt.

[ajax]

Don't understand some of the responses to my post. Did I want a total house cleaning of our team? After Richards and Boyle are gone we will have two guys left from CUP night. Gang, the house cleaning has been happening day by day for two plus years. This organization made all of that happen. Let's see,
20 million to three guys
7.8 million to a top 50 center
Denis
Kuba
Good riddance Feds and Perrin
Let's see, Modin Stillman Kubina Sarich Khabby Cap't Dave Sydor Cullimore Pratt Feds, etc.. all long gone.
Zero youngsters in the barn
European flop, floppy floppest
Gang we play in the weakest division of the weakest conference, and we are one point from having the worse record in all of hockey. Less than three years after winning the cup, you can't even recognize our roster. Am I whining or is the awful truth of hitting rock bottom, screaming for change?
When the year is over we have 13 UFA's. We will go into the summer with probably at most about 7-9 guys that Torts would want. You say I won't like all the new faces. Wakeup, that is what has happened the past two years. Maybe with some cap room the new faces won't all be minimum wage bums!!! I have been saying all year on this blog it would get worse before it gets better. 45% of the payroll on three guys "IS" the 35ft anaconda, yet many of you say, hold on to the core, we must hold on to the core big4. Who's dreaming? The experiment didn't fail , it darn near destroyed the whole organization.
With no young talent, deep pockets will be the only chance of a speedy recovery. So yes it probably will take time. I am a firm believer that one or even two of the super4 going in return for 5 good players is a great place to start. No one on this blog is ticked off more than I. Tough management changes aren't for the feint of heart. I am a dreamer versus a realist. What?
I only know this. Big changes had to be made. Unpopular ones. Someone wrote, You won't like what you see. Let me be clear, I go to half of the games and we are not even competitive. On a great night we can win 4-3 with the big4 playing half the game. I don't like what I see NOW and I realize something/anything must change the makeup of this club. Starting with the GM. I am not a loyal fan? I wish I could post a picture of my kids room. Wall to wall Lightning memorabilia right down to the pillow cases. I have had season tickets since the barn out at the fairgrounds. In my group, 13 of us attended every single game during the run of the CUP. I was there when I could hear the players talking on the ice it was so empty. Gang, standing pat, with a losing hand, is not being an awesome, loyal, true believer. No sir.

[tundo]

I think this is the low point, Ajax. We will be a better hockey team next year. Let me re-phrase. We SHOULD be a better hockey team next year...

[Yoric]

Alas, poor Tortorella, I knew him well!

[BOHICA]

ajax, if you're going to write a post that long, add something we all haven't seen before. Isn't your wife giving you any??

[ajax]

Of course not!!!

[Hockey Chic]

Well fellas what do we say about last night. It was promising for a little while. Listening to chief on the way home and even he could not come up with a reason why our not so present C was not at the radion show.

I am not sure if he was at the game or not but regardless if they do not take away the C Tool Man should give it up for the team. Torts and his rants get me so peeved it is crazy. Maybe there is stuff going on with the guys but hello their main responsibility is to play and play hard. Pretty passes fellas it does not work especially with a trap team.

Most of you know I am not a huge DFB fan but let me say this they are going to squeeze every single last minute they can out of him. For the minutes he played he looked pretty good out there.

I know Toto we are not in Kansas anymore and the rosies are definitly scratched and dented at this point of the season. I will still be there like Ajax. I am a loyal fan and winning or losing I will never give up cheering and I will be there till the bitter end.

Go Bolts...

[Rudy]

I am still belief, that no trade should be made now, just change coach, for anything, and you will see result right away. Even if we made all trade you guys dreaming of, it will not change anything. Maybe for short time. Maybe, very short time. You can’t trade all your best players on business (accountants) decisions only, you have to fit in players who going to work with a coach. Nobody will and is not for this one, and how we know who going to be next,. If we have new coach, we should build team around him, and V4. You thru away you best players for who know what, and you leave in to guy who screw them up. How you know they will not play really hockey when they have a chance. First is first. Thru coach out, and then you can do rest. We have plenty time now. It’s not like we need some help in playoffs.
Put Andreychuk in now temporarily, you look for couch, and lets team try to recuperate in rest of the season, now they going to play with no pressure, nothing more can be lost. And if it’s working ( I think it will)leave him in for next year. You can’t lose anything now, but maybe players you will be sorry for.

[Brett]

Brad Richards showed me a lot during that Boston game last night. Amidst all of this, he plugged and played his game. He possessed the puck a ton and was creative; it might have been the microcasm of his season. Watching Hlavac get tied up all night was frusterating for ME, I can only imagine how Brad feels after a night like he had. He is a remarkable talent and will once again be worth his salary in the NHL. I just hope its here with better finishers.

[Another Joe]

I say keep Richards and Boyle, but unload Kuba(3 million),Prospal(1.9), and get some picks in draft. I love Prospal but he is gonna want to much money after the year he is having and we cant loose him for nothing.

I was at game last night and the fantasy of making the playoffs is over. Lets start getting ready for next year. Give Ramo the bulk of the starts the final 20 games.

[weezer]

You McFlys just don't get it. Too much dough tied up in too few bodies. Big 4 can't be kept. Fantasy owner wants to spend $42 million next year. Vinny gets a new contract too. Under your scenario $26-27 million will be tied up in 4 players. Do the math.

[boltflasher]

Another Joe, lose your love affair with Brad. Even the Chief says the team needs major changes and that one or more of the Fantastic 4 needs to be moved to clear salary to enable the team to be able to acquire and keep assets that will enable them to have some depth beyond the first line. Feaster admited to Cillio that tying up 80% of the team salary in 3 players has not worke....However, I do think that a trial with a different coach should have been tried prior to changing the players, but Feaster is apparently merged at the hip with Torts...

[To Lisa]

Stamkos is going to be the first overall pick and the Blue Jackets WILL NOT be picking first overall so there is no sense in even thinking that is a possibility. If you are interested in picking up the first overall pick you might look out west to the Los Angeles Kings who are making a hell of a case for themselves aside from the Lightning, but do remember it is a lottery to get the pick.

Long live Brad Richards. He is one of the best passers in the game, has great vision on the ice and plays hard. Yes, the points haven't come his way the last couple years, but he has been surrounded with second rate players and believe it or not, that takes a toll on you. His point production took a downfall when Modin left! That is a fact and the reason why. Anyone who wants to look past that and just bash the guy doesn't know much about the game or about the Lightning.

[olin]

BUENA SERA- You don't know what the hell your talking about in defense of Ajax....

[Another Joe]

If they trade Richards it better be a great deal to include a solid blue liner, a forward and a top pick or two. At this point in the year I dont think we'll get a goalie at the deadline. That will have to happen in off season.

[Casper]

Ditto in defense of Ajax. Brother, you don't have to explain sanity. Push the chair a foot further back from the keyboard and you'll see what rants here and the issues they have rattling around in their melon.

See there? I didn't even have to tell you that, so I'll take some of my own medicine.

I was re-thinking my preseason bashing of Gratton. Why not try to hang on to him. He's travelled enough and found his way home here often enough.
Cripes, if he gets to be the only player to get me throwing things, we'd be doing very well indeed.

[leo]

Yo ajax,
Relax, it's just the cretin after you. Don't answer him; you'll just incur his childishness for the rest of the day.
You have a way of pointing out some truths that, unfortunately, gets ME into trouble when I say it, but sounds more relevant when YOU say it. So keep on truckin', bro.
Moving on,
I love all these posters who can either see the future or read players' minds. He'll be traded, he won't be, he WANTS to go here or there and play with this guy or that guy. He'll never want this; he'll surely want that, c'mon. Heck, the PLAYERS don't know what's going to happen so how can we? What, are we all a bunch of Al Strachans, here? (joke)
I mean, why Columbus? Oh, because of Nash? Oooooouuuh...Only one player like that in the league, what? Richards DOESN'T want to play with Crosby? Or Ovy? Or Zeddy? Is that it? Just wants to play with Nash? Only reason we're talkin' Columbus is because they showed an interest that we are AWARE of, that's it. Far as we know, a whole lotta other teams might've shown an interest in num19 as well.
But y'all are saying that Richards is gonna waive off to move from a wretched team to a mediocre team? Maybe.
But maybe he wants a little more. Maybe he wants to win. Who knows, right?
So we dump Richards and sign Boyle. Who wants 7mil, by the way.
And this summer, we sign Vinny for 10mil, right?
Which leaves...uuuhhh, lemme check...uuuhh..ah! Three dollars and seventy-eight cents for a goalie.
Yay! More of the same for years to come! Yay!
No! Dammit, no!
The trade-deadline is a golden oppurtunity to right our team despite what bloggers consider to be a "slap in the face" to players. It isn't. It's business. Trades are an integral part to EVERY team's evolution. Every team!
Trading is NEVER a sign of failure.
One more thing,
Those who accuse others of "not knowing hockey" should be ashamed of themselves. There is no wise old man of hockey. Even Scotty Bowman's missed a few off-sides. Even Wayne Gretzky's thrown his stick to stop an open-goal breakaway.
Show me someone who's known and called every single truth in hockey and I'll show you a d*** liar.
All your opinions, suggestions and insights are welcome here, erroneous, farfetched, crazy or not. I, for one, truly enjoy reading them and, perhaps, responding obtusely (as you all know) to them. That's the whole fun, isn't it?
However, if you read the policy on top-left corner of this blog, it clearly indicates what is NOT welcome.
So bring it on.
But keep it kosher, eh?
BBR

[Rudy]

Leo and Olin: Ditto

[keith]

Couple of seasons ago when Pens & Caps had similar seasons, they unloaded a bunch of talent to "rebuild". Gonchar, Witt, Jagr et al,all were traded. Took a couple of seasons, but now both teams have their "catalyst player" as a result of high early draft picks back then, together with bringing on some homegrown young guys both teams are much improved this year. Hate to see Richie go,if that is whats to happen, but changes will be good, wherever in the organization they may happen from Feasters office down to the the equipment guy.

[leo]

True dat, Keith.
Even in current events. How many points did the Flyers have at this point in the season, last year? 'Bout the same as us? Bit more? Bit less? You see my point.
Lookat'em now. (Mind you, they're still jerks, but not PUTRID jerks.)
If they got what they got for a broken Foppa, 'magine what we could get for num19 in the prime of health. MUCH MORE than we could get at the end of the year or what we could have gotten 3 months ago.
The time is now. With competing GM's aspiring to top honors, some will make moves they would have never considered at ANY OTHER TIME. Except now.
Let's get it on.
BBR

[Jimmy]

The Caps (Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom) and Pens (Crosby, Malkin, Staal, etc.) got their picks because their teams sucked. They got #1 picks (and early round selections) because they were horrible. They unloaded the other guys (Witt, Gonchar, Jagr) because they had fat salaries and the team wanted to dump them. You will probably see a lot of the same here in Tampa Bay. No need for anyone to defend this team, they are a bad hockey club.

A few hockey people picked the Lightning to finish 14th out of 15 teams in the pre-season and I didn't really laugh at it because they are not a very good team. The fact that the goaltending situation was totally ignored over last off-season in hopes that Holmqvist or Denis would magically not suck anymore is Feaster's fault. Now that the team is up for sale and the fact that the team is horrible, you will be seeing moves because it has gotten to the point where Feaster can't just sit around trying to defend his current holdings (like a stock investor) and believe in them. Major changes are coming with this team and it isn't just going to be the roster players.

[leo]

Well, what's REALLY funny is,
You got the best post today, Casper.
I propose we skip ahead, throw the next monkey in the wrench. Know fer a fact it's burnin' ME up.
This summer,
Vill Vinny sign on ze paper or vill Vinny NICHT sign on ze paper?
BBR

[leo]

Mystery!!!
How did MY reply to Casper get on BEFORE his post???
I'm scared, man...
I'M OUTTA HERE!!!...
BB.....

[leo]

Oh, ok.
I get it. Casper's in the future. No prob. I was scared there fer a sec..bb-bb..IN THE FUTURE!!!
AAAAAH!
B...
(slam!)

[ajax]

In our group of guys, I was the only one who predicted they wouldn't make the playoffs. I simply thought, we barely made playoffs the year before and the parts they added weren't as good as the parts they let leave. Then, add in Boyle and Craig injuries to a Organization that had no intention of adding even one piece and we are in 15th this beautiful Sunday morning. Humor is all some of us "unloyal" "rotten" "mindless" bloggers have left. Smiles and Peace to all, special thanks to the many who backed me up during a difficult night(year). Everytime I hear the statement from Feaster, the players have to be held accountable, I just hope all the season ticket holders see through that statement. Management wrote off 2007-08 a long time ago. Fire Feaster. Pithy!!

[ajax]

Caspers post says 2:31 pm and it is only 2pm. Is this the hand of God? I read his post, did mine and then saw he was behind me. Imposerus.

[David]

I think it is a fact that you can take to the bank that Brad Richards will excel when he is moved.

There are people who seem to think because of this that we should hang on to him. At this point a trade is practically a favor to Brad. We will never be able to help the 2nd line out as hamstrung by salary as we are.

Yes, Brad will go somewhere, Brad will produce numbers again. When you trade you should give value to get value. That is no reason to not trade, you can't be scared that the player you get rid of will get better, that's the point of the trade, to move players who don't fit for players who do. In an ideal trade both clubs get better. Hanging on to an $8 mil salary in the hopes of seeing improvement is just insanity. If our GM does his job, we give up a good to great $8 million player to get several above average players for about the same salary in return.

So if Brad goes, he does well where he goes and I look forward to it. I have nothing against him personally but he just hasn't produced for whatever reason, the coach, the system, the linemates. He's just somewhat the victim of a GM who gave too much money to too few players.

Had Feaster bought out Denis, maybe that little bit of money could have improved the 2nd line, had he fired Torts maybe a new system would have helped. But Feaster and Torts both seem unwilling or unable to cut their losses in regards to players.

I think the dysfunction in this organization is made emblematic by allowing the team to go without a captain for virtually the entire season. Unforgiveable.

[leo]

If we can fool around with the time of posts, I'm setting one for 4:am that says,
Whatever the person before me just said is hogwash, that's right, hogwash, I'll say it again, hogwash!
Hihihihi..mmmh. No.
No, I won't do that. That wouldn't be nice.
BBR

[Casper]

Wow, this IS crazy. For my next trick, I'm going to buy Lotto at 1130pm and win dat sucka.

I got 2:17pm now.

[Casper]

Six months ago, one our compatriots (wink, wink) wanted to know our predictions where the Bolts would be by next month. [No snake oil for me, Jay, but thanks.]
I went from the gut and said 11th in the East, foolishly thinking there HAD to be four clubs worse off.
Well, I just wanted to thank everybody for not bashing that speculation, not that I would have cared anyhow; but shows there must be a lot of sharp cookies out there.
I was an optimist! Even I, thought last year was a fluke of a puke year and there couldn't possibly be a repeat.
If back to back Cups are tough to attain, this mess also took some serious craftsmanship.

So, it's hard to be original on the blog (just check the archives) when the only difference this time is, Jay "Elmer Fudd" Feaster is going fishing with sticks of dynamite. Other GM's (Bugs Bunny) can't wait to snip his fuses in half.

Humor folks, it's the best way through this.......

[Lisa]

I know we can't use the Columbus pick for Stamkos, but we very well may be able to use the Lightning first pick for Stamkos. We have a very good chance of having the first pick of the draft this year.

[To Lisa]

Good point. Hopefully he pans out and isn't a bust like a decent bit of prospects that the Lightning have been known to choose over the course of the last 15 years. It is funny to think that the Lightning are in probable contention for a top 5 or so pick, if not number 1. Haha, welcome back to the old days.

[David]

With our pick being so high, they could always turn the Columbus #1 around to another team for a couple/few players

[Lisa]

I read somewhere that the Bolts would be getting goalie LeClaire back from Columbus. Don't know if that is true, but if so, he has played very well (but how scary is it to get another goalie from Columbus?)

One other point: if they are trading Richards, they better make sure that they can extend Lecavalier's contract this off season. In a way, it may be better for the team to keep Richards until the off season, see if they can extend Lecavalier, and then if they do, trade Richards. I would hate to trade him and then find that Vinny wants to leave the Bolts and we are left with no good centers.

[f. chum buddy]

We're not getting LeClaire. Ain't gonna happen.

Some combination of Jakub Voracek, Derick Brassard, Kris Russell, Rotislav Klesla, Gilbert Brule and picks is much more probable.

Do you guys watch the post-game stuff with Tort last night? Uhh, what the hell is REALLY going on here??

I think its high time that people start DEMANDING answers or speculating about the truth until someone breaks. I'm going to guess that the players know the real financial truth behind Palace.....can they be bankrupt? Tort talked about "extenuating circumstances" and not "making excuses" for this "s#*t". This is something more than hockey here. Never mind young defensemen, bad goaltending. I'm going to guess that guys haven't been paid for a few weeks/months/the entire season. Either that or someone in that locker room slept with another player's wife because this is getting too weird...

[Not The Marlboro Man]

I'm willing to take odds that the Dallas stars will probably end up with Richards because Brett Hull is so big on him. I am also worried about what we will get in return. Left up to Feaster, I'd say we would probably get another 2nd string goal tender like Mike Smith...exactly what we don't need, but its better than our current situation. I just don't have faith in Jay Feaster anymore...there was a time when I did, but those time are now long forgotten. Being a GM is hard work not nostalgia. Forget about what happened in 2004 Feaster needs to build another contender with real players and stop pretending like he's doing something when he's not. Feaster needs to prove to the world he can build a team on his on merrit and not someone elses. The owner should promise us this...that if the team doesn't improve drastically by ufa signings and trades by the end of the first month of next season, that Feaster and Tortarella will be fired and a new GM and coach will be hired. I know it won't happen that way but its fair and us Season Ticket prospective buyers want something done or at least believ that something is in the works for improvement.

[GP]

Firts off, what is up with bashing ajax? He actually gives informative non biased views of what goes on every game. It is obvious he cares about this team.

Ajax, I also predicted they would not make the playoffs.

Richards is an enigma in the NHL. He makes more than the likes of Spezza, Alfreddson, Joe Thornton, etc. The list is very long and distinguished. He is not a bad player, if fact, he is a very good player. Unfortunately for him, he plays for a team with a self imposed cap. His salary would work if they spent the full cap but they don't. They NEED to deal Richards for the health of the organization. According to some trade rumors, they are getting a whole lot more than I thought they would. Let's infuse this team with a bunch of youth ... ie. Brassard. Shed the salary of players like Kuba, Gratton, Richards, and whoever else some other teams wants. Then we have V4 and Marty, some youth on D (Ranger & Obrein), and young guys who come back at the trade dealine. THEN you have money to spend this summer to fill in holes through free agency.

There is no passion in the economics of hockey and unfortunately you have to tear it down to make it better. Think how bad the FLyers were last year and look at their future now.

[Lisa]

I read about Tort's comments, and I was wondering about them as well. It seemed to me that maybe he was talking about all the pressure with the trade rumors, and having players that have played together for a long time knowing that the team would be broken up. Imagine Vinny and Brad: they have played together since they were little kids, (even went to Russia together for the lockout).

But who knows, there may be other things going on. One thing is for sure: Vinny is not playing the way he was at the beginning of the season when he was completely unstoppable. I have been wondering if he is playing injured or if he got Brad's mono (by sharing a bottle). Or maybe the stress of everything going on has gotten to him as well.

Anyway, whatever happens, good luck to all the Lightning, and I wish only the best to all: even the ones that are traded. I will probably get nostalgic and watch my Stanley Cup video and get a bit sad at losing more of our Stanley Cup team.

[pal]

Yes, the Flyers are a PERFECT example of how quickly you can turn things around with the right moves.

Richards is who we're obviously banking on for a big haul. I'd keep (re-sign) Gratton as I think he is perfect as a 3rd or 4th line center. Deal Kuba. Deal Holmer. Deal Hlavac. Deal Prospal (although in a perfect world he'd stay and sign a reasonable contract). Bring Denis back up to play out the year and hopefully build value for a trade in the summer. Also, though highly unlikely it'd be great if you could work out a deal with Boyle in which you could trade him and reap the rewards of some prospects and/or picks and then sign him back in the summer.

[Tim McGarry]

If they trade Richards then tampa Bay soon will have no teaam left. they will have one line depending on vinny and martin

[jr]

Sorry ajax but I'm at least the third guy that's chimed in who said way back when they wouldn't make the playoffs.

Meanwhile, I still think Richie will waive his NTC clause for Columbus but not Dallas. Columbus has a brighter future with Hitchcock at the helm. Both teams want him.

[fogelberg]

Given the haul that Philly got last year for Forsberg I'd try my damndest to hit it out of the park with this deal. And not just out of the park, but waaaaay out of the park. In exchange for Richards and Kuba ask for Jakub Voracek, Derick Brassard, Kris Russell, and a 1st/2nd round draft pick. Go BIG Feaster!

[wiggy]

From what I've read, Columbus wants to go on the cheap so maybe Dallas is Richie's destination.

[Casper]

Not going to get Smith from Big D, period. The only Stars we should fixate upon are Morrow, Halpern, or one of their young d-men.
We should worry about a goalie stud after the Dance. My crysta bal says Leo may be right and Huet might head this a way. Have to admit, I’m scratching my head at why he hasn’t pulled up lame yet. Unlike Khabby, he doesn’t yet have the history of hitting his stride in the post-season.
Stockpile some juicy picks. They don’t have freak accidents, go on IR, and can be bargaining chips when real talent is available. Like now, in our case.

[Nils]

Bidding for Huet this summer might be fierce. Don't bet that Stars won't give up Smith. I think he must be part of any package along with their young Russian defenseman.

As far as Columbus is concerned, if Brassard is not part of the deal, the Lightning should walk away.

[ajax]

When I said my group, I meant the group of guys I talk and buy ticket with. No slight intended. Hopefully the team deal will be done just in time for summer shopping. I can't imagine any of the old regime making the cut. except maybe Torts. He has so alienated the team with his anger I can't see him working thru our new team. We will have at least 8-10 new faces opening night. So much to ponder. I think they want to trade Richards and resign Boyle and VL4. Prospal is gone. If he is here in another 3 days I think that is another mistake to add to Feasters resume. I think Prospal has zero loyality to Bolts. Net they get nothing for him if they don't trade him by Tuesday. TRADE HIM JAY. If they do trade Brad and Boyle does not resign, the next domino surely will be VL4 leaving. He is not going to sign a long term contract in the prime of his NHL playing career and have no shot of winning. Won't happen. Like I said so many important moves that could decide literally the next 5 years of the franchise, and we have to trust Jay? scarry thought but reality. Flipside if Brad stays, Boyle is gone, and they feel the weight of the free world to sign VL4 to 9+ million and we are back to square one for another 3 years of lopsided cap. They are trying with all their might to get something of value for Richards. Let's hope Brad is the wanted man so many think he is. I will be shocked, sorry, I will be. Someone mentioned Heatly, Thorton etc. Somehow I don't think any of those teams would even consider trading those guys heads up for Richards. No way ever.
Torts' comments. Man, is he a pot stirrer or what? Maybe he is trying to get fired so he can go on to greener pastures? I think he is fed up just as much as most of us bloggers by the overall state of this "organization"
Does that make him a disloyal fan for just being tired of, how did he say it, "all this bulls***" Change is good. Truth(opinions) does not equal traitor. Go Bolts Go. peace.

[wiggy]

Good analysis, ajax. Only thing I question is your statement about Prospal's (dis)loyalty. He has played as hard as anyone, maybe the hardest. Torts f---ed him over.

Like some others, I see problems with this supposed "new" owner. But first things first--the next 43 hours.

[tundo]

I saw Prospal take two shots when he had wide open guys on the opposite side with wide open nets last night. Most noticibly, was once when Gratton was wide open, and nobody was even there to block a pass to him. We should have scored there, but Prospal would rather try to improve his goal total...

So, I would have to say his team loyalty is not where it needs to be. He is trying to score as many goals as he can to make as much money as he can in the offseason...

Good riddance to him...

[Nils]

Sounds like sour grapes by you guys. He's one of the players that should be least criticized.

[harvey]

How crazy is this? I don't think there has been so much buzz around this team since 2004. Incredible!!

Want my opinion? Of course not! here it is anyway.

This is a lot of nothing if Boyle signs. If not he gets moved and richards stays. For now anyway. It has been reported that Koules was the one who wanted to find out richards could get in the open market before he'd agree to a big dollar contract for boyle. Only so much can stay.

With all the nonsense of a potential sale I don't see pse trading assets who might look good to a potertial owner if the latest deal crashes. By sticking toes in the water the team now knows the market value of richards which is more than most people here thought. I like richie and what I've seen possibly coming in return is surprising to say the least. I think it has surprised the organization as well. Now they feel safe to sign boyle knowing they have serious interest and offers on richards.

My first thought is boyle signs and we go to the summer before anything changes (with the exception of prospal, gratton, and lesser ufas)

My second thought is an unexpected offer comes in for richards that the team just can't turn down so they move him anyway.

They both are here entering the summer or both are gone. Since boyle has yet to sign I don't see this team wasting more time screwing around. he's shipped to the highest bidder. By dangling richards to simply test the water the team gets an offer they cant refuse and pulls the trigger.

or not

it will be an interesting next day and a half. i think little if anything changes following the trend this year for doing nothing till we have an owner. the fireworks might wait until the summer. i don't expect much right now.

[Nan]

I was watching a local news channel and the sports anchor on there said that Richards was suppose to get a list of teams that were interested in his services as early as tonight. Rumored to be on the list - Columbus, Dallas and Vancouver.

I agree with many of the posts here, the next few days should be interesting and could be scary at the same time. Richards deserves a #1 center spot with good wingers, for his own future he should move. I hope Vinny wlll stay forever here but maybe if the situation doesn't improve next year, he will also take off.

[Torts is Done]

Zactly Nan...

It's in Richie's best interest to have a change of circumstance. Best for him and the team. I also think your dead on with keeping Vinny. If he doesn't see a commitment to win here he'll pack faster than Richie.

Vinnie has already made multi millions. Not that $'s don't count mind you.He'll want his fair share. It's more about winning now. If he doesn't see a solid commitment here, I couldn't blame him for moving on himself.

Hopefully the team will be willing to spend their new found cash on players that make them competitive.

[Casper]

Nice to hear from you Harvey.

I think the fever pitch of the trade deadline adds impetus and value to Richards. I also feel we should strike while the coals are luke warm. Otherwise, clubs would be content to let his python contract strangle us for yet a third season of inability to afford a decent surrounding cast.

I used to like Brad, but not at this cost. At elite dollars it's too easy to pick at holes in his fairly decent but not superstar game. Let other clubs who remember his Trophy year, but haven't been sickened lately, take him on. Wish him well, and believe his new club will do well as we all watch the Dance on the tube.

Hypothetically speaking, if Brad goes, and Feaster is replaced by a bigger dunce---stay with me here--- and he doles out say $12.6M to V4 based on a promise from on high to spend to the cap. Then they renege and we're broke and can't afford ....yadda, yadda. Then we'll detest V4 because he can't score 75 goals. That's sort of the ridiculous situation we have now. At almost 8mil we expect Richie to get 95 points [even if any of us played on his line] and the club to get at least the same number of victory points. This isn't so, and the junkyard dogs are measuring their lunge.

The '03-'04 Cup DVD was a good seller. Somebody should make another DVD on the macabre downfall from penthhouse to outhouse with all the dramatic elements that lead us to this sewer. It would be more scary than all the Saw flicks combined.

Ggo Bbolts!

[boltflasher]

I don't think there will be much activity until just before the deadline and then all hell will break loose, but I could be wrong and tomorrow could be busy, but we'll see...

[The Accountant]

Here is one way the underfinanced Koules can close the deal:

http://www.financialweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080201/REG/532466642/1036

[ajax]

2 comments to the posts above. I think Prospal is doing great and I also agree with what is easy to see. No attempt what so ever to hide the fact that he wants stats stats stats for that last fat contract. Please get something for him Jay and show him the door. The not passing to wide open guys is so clear to see.
Second, the total destruction of an awesome roster in less than three years. You probably couldn't have done as much wrong if you actually were trying. thru the next months of blogging and searching for answers/solutions keep in mind 13 total UFA's. And I agree 110% if they do not show that they are turning this thing around quick, VL4 will leave. He doesn't need the money. He is a star and he will want to WIN. My prediction is, Richards is gone and Boyle stays. What we get for Richards and what we tie up in cash for Boyle will be the tale of the tape. Let's all hope Feaster got a megadose of humility and smarts from past fiasco's. The funny thing is I have read "lots" of blogs from Columbus and they have zero confidence in their GM to get this deal done. This is the first year they have been close to making playoffs at trade deadline. I think that is a good sign for us. He doesn't want to wake up Wednesday with the paper saying he couldn't get the deal done. Net: he sweetens the pot for us. I hope that is how it plays out.

[Brad's Hair Stylist]

I wish I could be as optimistic. I forsee Feaster with the usual hands of stone dexterity keeping Richie here and divesting Boyle and V20 and maybe a surprise "keeper" like Lundin or Ramo. That's the confidence I have in this Man.
More of the same in '08-'09, and with a new spin and a rejuvinated Marc Denis!
Ha, I got a million of dem!

[Harvey's Shrink]

Buckle up your jock harv. This won't wait until the summer. The next several hours will be fast and furious. Sleep through it if you like. Seems like that is what you do anyway.

[olin]

...this blog is terrific reading everyone's thought's..I personally can't wait to see what Damaian put's up for us the next day..and soon to be D-day...Will really get busy then. Ajax, I saw what that Bueno guy said about you and I hadn't had a chance to read everything yet- but I had to shoot that guy down ASAP, he made my fur stand up....I've been gone all day and finally got to see what everyone has said...all I can add is that I hope Mr. Feaster does the right thing....gulp!

[slapshot]

hope we wake up to a new topic named.... he's gone...

[David]

My own prediction is that Feaster in attempting to play teams off against one another to get the most for Richards lets the trade deadline go by.

[Jeremy]

Prospal is about as inconsistent as the Tampa Tribune's hockey coverage. Have a look at the guys stats. He is a one year on, one year off sort of player...aka not very good. People want to jump all over his bandwagon because he is having a decent year, but the bottom line is, if you lock that guy in to a big contract you are going to regret it just as much as Toronto has with signing the well over-paid (but a good guy) Jason Blake. The guy had one good year and will never again touch 40 goals but the Leafs locked him into a monster deal. These GMs should spend smarter and be more thrifty. I can't say that Feaster is either.

[Jeremy]

Oh and P.S.- If you think the 04-05 lockout/season cancellation was bad, just wait for when this new CBA expires, because there is going to be even bigger trouble. The so-called "new NHL" is just a softer, faster game of the same. The money going out the door vs. what is coming in the door is still horrible and the "win" by the owners in 04-05 is quickly turning into a debacle as GM's and owners continue to agree to overpay players with ridiculous money that just doesn't come in the NHL. It isn't only the Lightning that are in trouble, it is (and will continue to be), this entire league.

[Brad's masseuse]

What most of you don't know is that I have a NTC with Brad and have to sign off on any trade also.

[Brad's Agent]

I am not authorized to reveal anything about a trade but on Tuesday night #19 will be in a city with a very large arch (no, not McDonald's).

[Not The Marlboro Man]

One last thing I'll comment on before I have a m last double cocktail of the weekend. If anyone has taken a look at the list of free agents available this summer you'll notice that there are slim pickens. Cory Stillman, Brian Rolston and only a few forwards that are notables. There is also very very few defensemen. If the Bolts don't get their needs taken care of through this trade period within the next couple of days and then the draft, then there is little hope to establish a competative team for next season.
In the old days we used to say, prior planning prevents pi** poor performance. This is commonly known as the principle of "P" something that hasn't happend for the Bolts the last couple of years. If you look at our list of free agents that we will have this summer, it looks fairly bleak.

Now let me shoot this by some of you. Free agents have a choice of where they would like to play, its not neccessarily all about the money. I believe that "Camp Torturella" and the dress-downs that have occurred in the press for the last several years may have finally taken the Bolts to a new low. I don't think that we are going to atract too many UFAs.

Its discouraging to me to hear that Brad Richards will waive his no trade clause. It shows me that he may be eager to leave Tampa as well as others. It seems that all of these gruff and hard style coaches do well for a couple of years then they just out live their usefulness. Eventually you just become bored with the same old rants, raves and discipline and tune it out. I'm sure many of you were in the military or other similar jobs where its just no fun to go to work anymore because you know that you have to go deal with a Dou*** bag every day when you had rather not. So in turn, you get sick more often than you normally would and your performance starts to faulter even though you tell yourself it isn't happening. Now you become frustrated and complacent because you know that what you do for a living you can do blind folded like a robot. So you just go in and mark in time. Suddenly you tell yourself you would gladly welcome a transfer because you heard that the boss in another state or district has had allot of success because he has some fresh ideas and the method he uses is one that is based on motivation and positives not discipline. You say then that you need this because you've consider yourself a savy veteran, not a rookie anymore and you just don't need the shi# anymore. Besides, you hate the guy you work for and you would just be glad to get the heck away from him.

Does this sound familiar? I've lived this scenario several times in my career and I'm sure some of you have as well. This is why I like to drink allot and forget.

I don't know if the Bolts have this problem for sure, but it really sounds like it. I just wish they were smart enough to figure out their direction before it ends up going too far south. Ticket sales depend on it.

NTMM out.......

[Voice of the Turtle]

It is difficult to understand how a fellow who has tried three of four times to buy the Lightning without success (apparently, for the want of sufficient financing) can be insinuated into the trading decision-making process which is of such momentous importance to a franchise worth over $200,000,000.

This producer of Hollywood schlock horror films does not present himself to the media to answer questions, does not reveal the names of all of his so-called co-investors, leaves his financing plans (if he has any) as a mystery, presents no indication of who might be advising him about NHL operations and player decisions, and gives no information on the team's prospective future (including the vital question of its ultimate location). Yet, now he is interposed into a decision process that will affect this team's fortunes for years to come.

If he succeeds in arresting title to this hockey team from the current particularly neglectful owner who is so eager to part with it, he might well be asking those of us who have been left in the dark through all of this to support his venture by buying tickets.

While one understands the need to play cards close to the vest, it is (and, for some time, has been) also clear that something is radically wrong with this whole deal, and the lack of information available (call it media or public relations if you like) increases the discomfort of those thinking people who might otherwise be lock-step loyal to this franchise. One gets the feeling that Koules is not just cleverly declining to show his hand. Rather, he is acting like someone who has something to hide.

Aside and apart from the fate of Brad Richards, Danny Boyle, and others, these are issues that will have impact upon my decision about resubscription to season tickets next year. Consider, if Koules can barely secure the capital to acquire the Lightning, how can he find the funds to adequately support any future winning ambitions. Will this be a deja vu of the Hugh Culverhouse operation.

This year's edition of the Tampa Bay Lightning has been held in hostage by this ridiculous comedy and the hopes of this team as well as our community have been dashed by greedy rich men who fail to consider anyone's interest except their own.

Do I feel some sense of resentment...hell, yes!

[boltflasher]

I don't envy JF's current situation. He has some extremely difficult decisions to make in the next day and a half. The current situation is partly his fault and partly not. I am a manager in my own job and since it is in healthcare, my decisions can affect people's lives and their health. If I can offer Jay any advice from my own experience, its this: First, Make the decision YOU think is best, because you will be held responsible no matter what, so do what you think is right. If you do what someone else wants and you think its wrong, it won't be them who will be blamed, it will be you, so if you control over the decision, do what you are willing to be on the hot seat for which is hopefully what is best for the organization...
Second, before we give up on a group of employees or some of our star employees, maybe a fresh approach from a new manager (or coach) is all that is needed to get them going again...

[TroyB]

Richards should hold onto his NTC until this summer then request a trade. Better for him IMHO.

Must read...Bolt Prospects, "on the eve of something awful happening." http://boltprospects.com/

[boltflasher]

Of course, Jay is probably better off not reading these blogs...but here's hoping that some team on the playoff fringe or a contender believes Brad or DB is the answer they need to get the Cup and offers the farm...

[Mike13]

Thanks for that post TroyB. It was a well written, passionate plea to trade away the supporting cast and keep Richards. The thing is that Richards' salary is just too high to be supported by the budget set by our current owner, PSE. The article cites teams like Detroit doing the same thing. I disagree. They do not have 3 forwards making the bulk of the cash. Their core group includes a game-controlling defenseman --which the Lightning will not have next season if this trade is not made.

Koules will reportedly keep the budget at about the same number next year. So in light of this, Jay needs to free up the $$$ so that he can afford a real #1 goalie in the offseason, and to ensure that Boyle & Lecavalier get new contracts.

[Mike13]

News flash:

Sundin is off the block. He has declined to waive his no-trade clause. With Forsberg out of the picture too, it makes Richards and Jokinen the 2 most sought after Centers that may be still available.

Also, TSN is reporting that Feaster has talked to Brad and that Brad has submitted a list of teams that he is willing to be traded to. Speculation is that this will be a done deal on Monday.

I think that trading Brad is the right thing to do, but why do I still feel weak at the knees and sick to my stomach?

[TroyB]

Mike13..you're not alone bro...

[Ajax]

Read that blog/article? Misinformation(my opinion only). Let me take a stab. Zetterberg and Holmstrom both signed thru next year for less than 3mil. Chelios for 850k. Think about it, Chelios for 100k more than they were willing to pay Perrin. Chelios would play 25 a night with us and no one would of ever heard of Lundin. He also forgot to mention the slew of young players that Detroit has developed that they get three years worth, CHEAP. This is called a farm system/organizational strength. We have the opposite, an oxymoron. Thirty year old rookies, castoffs as support players, we have about 4 playing every night. He says let the role players go and start over. Someone help me here, isn't that the exact same thing we have done going into camp the past two years??It is a revolving door all based on no money for role players. What he should be saying is we absolutely have to find 4 very good NHL players that are willing to play for league minimum. Good luck, anyone know where to find them. Don't try Europe, Jay has already signed a bunch of those sleepers.(yawners you mean)
And last but certainly not least. This year they do have 3 players with a cap of 20 million. BUT, Keep in mind we had 20 million tied up when the cap was 39mil, then 45mil and now 50mil. Huge difference in amount that can be spent to fill out roster. Another huge half truth of that article. He also stated everyone he knew was groaning about the break up of the big 4. No one I know and certainly no one I sit around at the game is groaning. Oh yes they are groaning, why did you wait so long!!
Last did anyone read today about Torts is happier with the D and the adjustment that was made. He went further to say the Cup winning team was excellant at blocking shots. 2 years later and you are seeing some improvement. Strange fricking comment that someone in the room should of said, "what took so fricking long to adjust??" and "why can't this group block shots" My brother has said that a zillion times. Blocking shots is leaving your feet. We only block shots when the slapshots from the point hit someone. Not quite the same effort, but still, Torts that is yours and Sullys job.

[Lisa]

Mike and Troy: I agree that it is probably the right move, but I feel sick to my stomach as well. Good luck to Richards!

[Casper]

Coffee tastes awful after reading about OK and his heretofore unsanctioned input. I’ll bet he’s in love with Brad and wants to ship out everybody BUT Brad and rebuild around HIM! Ohhh, steady….No biggie, I get up and walk out of horror movies. The Decline smacks more of a Russian tragedy though. Check Feaster’s shoes, somebody?

Those were solid, rock solid points by NTMM. If I’d stayed up later, I’d have hoisted one in your general direction. I previously ranted that in America, bosses pay people just enough to keep them from quitting and folks do just barely enough work to keep from getting canned. Throw in a little disdain for a passing regime that will not pass on through and the constipation starts to reek. Time for a high colonic. Loved hearing the 5P speech again. D/N know there were six… [Reminds me of another firebrand---lord I’m glad Torts doesn’t drink. Can you imagine? ----Billy Martin oft said, “Everybody has the will to win, But d*mn few have the will to PREPARE to win.”] What we have here I’m not too sure, but it smells pretty ripe.

Quick question: Could Kuba play on a ‘Safe is Death’ club? When’s the funeral? And for whom or what?

Richards, Kuba, Denis, Hlavac, Taylor; this is like winning an argument with your wife or best Lass, it feels lousy.
I’ll begin my crow eating however, starting with a small birdie, I was wrong about Gratton (well mostly right, but admire his spunk after the eye. We ought to keep him; imagine if he were around earlier to be Andreychuk’s prize pupil? Grats will be all right.), Ouellet, and Karlsson. Really thought deep down he was a Svensk version of Brad Richards---oh wait---he IS! Two on the same club, how lucky can we be? Wrong about Tortorella too, I admit it.

I may be right about getting someone’s attention through their wallet. Can we wake up Mr. Davidson with a chorus of “Class Action Lawsuit Blues?”
Why does Koules have me fearing Doug MacLean less? Clever if it were by design. (!!!!!!!!!)

OMG, I just read that smarmy cheese on Troy’s link. Sure, keep Brad and dispatch everyone else. When the sissies in Prague/Europe see that brand of hockey, they may not let them leave. Boltprospects, what drivel.

Agree with Ajax, yet again. Torts lauds the D, humorous. Sort of like a case of the horns just before going to sign the divorce papers. WHAT DEFENSE? Where have they and SULLIVAN been all freaking year??!!!?? We haven’t played our offensive (and don’t blame this on no Boyle…) game and have demonstrated nauseatingly soft defense for the second year in a row; and NOW we kick at the dirt and say we’d like to do it over, only right this time? Sorry pal, screw me twice shame on me, you want a third (?) you’ll get it Daniel Boone style. This dollar you’ll have to fight for.

[BOHICA]

Ajax=

This business is well ended.
My liege, and madam, to expostulate
What majesty should be, what duty is,
Why day is day, night night, and time is time,
Were nothing but to waste night, day and time.
Therefore, SINCE BREVITY IS THE SOUL OF WIT,
And tediousness the limbs and outward flourishes,
I will be brief: your noble son is mad:
Mad call I it; for, to define true madness,
What is't but to be nothing else but mad?
But let that go.

-Shakespeare

If you can't say something NICE to someone, don't say ANYTHING at all.
-Mom

[tundo]

If Richards is moved, whether it be today or in the offseason, Lecavalier will be wrapped up into a very long contract extension before next season starts. I would hope we could get Boyle to stay around too, as long as its not for more than 5y/25M. Anything longer, or more than that isn't a good contract in my opinion.

[jr]

Good post, VOTT. The only thing I disagree with is that the franchise is not worth "over $200M." The team and the land have been diminishing assets since August. First non-deal was reported at $206M. The next non-deal was reported at "around $200M." Truthfully, it's worth less.

Here is something from the Toronto Globe-Mail that will get your juices flowing:

"Boyle, 31, is the best defenceman available and he is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. But Feaster has a contract agreement with him for six years at an annual salary of $6.5-million to $7-million.

However, that agreement has to be approved by Koules. If he approves, Boyle comes off the market, which will make Buffalo Sabres defenceman Brian Campbell the hottest commodity among blueliners. It may also create some interest in McCabe.

But if Koules does not, Boyle will be traded to the highest bidder and McCabe may stay put."

Koules is allegedly in Tampa this morning to meet with team officials. They shouldn't allow him near the Forum until he can "show us the money."

Why does this Hollywood troll who can't swing a loan allowed to have ANY say in the team's operation? I don't know if I have ever seen another franchise in this much of a muddled state from top to bottom.

Koules was in Vancouver last night watching their minor league hockey team, according to media reports. He sat with Tyson Barrie, owner of the team, and supposedly another potential Lightning investor. So there are two owners of a couple of minor league clubs w